bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integral abutment bridges: Investigation of seismic soil‐structure interaction effects by shaking table testing
Authors: Fiorentino Gabriele , Cengiz Cihan , De Luca Flavia , Mylonakis George , Karamitros Dimitris , Dietz Matt , Dihoru Luiza , Lavorato Davide , Briseghella Bruno , Isakovic Tatjana , Vrettos Christos , Topa Gomes Antonio , Sextos Anastasios , Nuti Camillo
Published: December 2020

In recent years there has been renewed interest on integral abutment bridges (IABs), mainly due to their low construction and maintenance cost. Owing to the monolithic connection between deck and abutments, there is strong soil‐structure interaction between the bridge and the backfill under both thermal action and earthquake shaking. Although some of the regions where IABs are adopted qualify as highly seismic, there is limited knowledge as to their dynamic behaviour and vulnerability under strong ground shaking. To develop a better understanding on the seismic behaviour of IABs, an extensive experimental campaign involving over 75 shaking table tests and 4800 time histories of recorded data, was carried out at EQUALS Laboratory, University of Bristol, under the auspices of EU‐sponsored SERA project (Seismology and Earthquake Engineering Research Infrastructure Alliance for Europe). The tests were conducted on a 5 m long shear stack mounted on a 3 m × 3 m 6‐DOF earthquake simulator, focusing on interaction effects between a scaled bridge model, abutments, foundation piles and backfill soil. The study aims at (a) developing new scaling procedures for physical modelling of IABs, (b) investigating experimentally the potential benefits of adding compressible inclusions (CIs) between the abutment and the backfill and (c) exploring the influence of different types of connection between the abutment and the pile foundation. Results indicate that the CI reduces the accelerations on the bridge deck and the settlements in the backfill, while disconnecting piles from the cap decreases bending near the pile head.
A German version of the Caregiver Skills scale for caregivers of patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Zeiler Michael , Philipp Julia , Truttmann Stefanie , Wittek Tanja , Franta Claudia , Imgart Hartmut , Zanko Annika , Auer‐Welsbach Ellen , Kahlenberg Leonie , Wagner Gudrun , Karwautz Andreas
Published: December 2020

Objective

To investigate acceptance, reliability, convergent validity, factor structure and sensitivity to change of a German translation of the Caregiver Skills (CASK) scale measuring skills related to caring for patients with eating disorders.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐three parents (76% female) of adolescent patients (mean age 15.1) with anorexia nervosa (AN) completed the 27 items of the CASK. We calculated item/scale characteristics, internal consistencies and bivariate correlations with other measures of caregiving burden. We evaluated goodness‐of‐fit of the 6‐factor model using confirmatory factors analysis and explored the sensitivity to change following two skills‐based trainings.

Results

The fit of the 6‐factor model was acceptable (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation: 0.077, Standard Root Mean Square Residual: 0.080). Cronbach's alpha was excellent for the total (.94) and acceptable for all subscales (0.73–0.85). The total CASK score was 68.04 (max. 100) showing relatively high self‐rated caregiver skills. Non‐completion rates of most items were low (<3%) indicating high acceptance. Convergent validity was found with measures of psychological distress, depression, anxiety and expressed emotion. The total score significantly increased following an 8‐week workshop/online skills training (d = 0.70) and a 2‐day multi‐family intervention (d = 0.47).

Discussion

The German CASK version is a useful instrument to assess caregiver skills in parents of patients with AN and to evaluate outcomes of skills‐based trainings.
Accumulation of Contaminants by Wild Turkeys and Potential for Consumer Exposure
Authors: Tisdale Cody A. , Leaphart James C. , Beasley James C. , Martin James A.
Published: December 2020

Despite their popularity as a game species across North America, little is known about contaminant burdens in wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) inhabiting areas of environmental contamination, and their potential to expose human and wildlife consumers. We compared trace element concentrations and radionuclide activity in muscle and liver tissues of turkeys inhabiting the Savannah River Site (USA), an area with known anthropogenic contaminant inputs, with turkeys from uncontaminated areas offsite. In addition, we tested breast feathers from a subset of individuals for mercury (Hg) to assess the viability of nonlethal sampling for quantifying Hg concentrations. Finally, we quantified arsenic, Hg, and selenium (Se) in blood of live-captured turkeys inhabiting a coal ash basin on the Savannah River Site. Compared with reference samples, we found that turkeys inhabiting the Savannah River Site contained elevated Hg levels in both muscle and liver tissues, and lower concentrations of chromium. Turkeys from the ash basin also had elevated levels of Se. We found a positive correlation between breast muscle and feather Hg concentrations (F1,59 = 267.5, R2 = 0.82, p < 0.001), suggesting that feathers can potentially be used as a nonlethal sampling technique. All elements analyzed were below reference limits set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for safe consumption. Thus, our data suggest that turkeys likely are not an important pathway of contaminant exposure on the Savannah River Site or other areas with similar contaminant distributions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1222–1231. © 2020 SETAC
Low‐complexity subspace method for I/Q imbalance estimation in low‐IF receivers with unknown fading
Authors: Gomaa Ahmad , Elezabi Ayman , Eissa Mohamed H.
Published: December 2020

In low‐intermediate‐frequency (low‐IF) receivers, I/Q imbalance (IQI) causes interference on the desired signal from the blocker signal transmitted over the image frequencies. Conventional approaches for pilot‐aided IQI estimation in zero‐IF receivers are not applicable to low‐IF receivers, where the image interference is unknown at the receiver. We propose a low‐complexity subspace method for the estimation of IQI parameters in low‐IF receivers in the presence of unknown fading, where we utilize knowledge of the pilots to null out the signal part. This reduces the variance of the sample mean estimate and leads to faster convergence. The proposed nulling method offers significantly better image rejection at low input signal‐to‐interference power ratio (SIR) than existing methods. Performance analysis of the output SIR as well as computer simulations are also provided.
Assessing the state of knowledge of contemporary climate change and primates
Authors: Bernard Andrew B. , Marshall Andrew J.
Published: December 2020

In recent years, interest in understanding the effects of climate change on species and ecological systems has sharply increased. We quantify and contextualize the current state of knowledge about the effects of contemporary climate change on non‐human primates, a taxon of great ecological and anthropological significance. Specifically, we report findings from a systematic literature search designed to assess the allocation of research effort on primates and climate change and consider how the current distribution of knowledge may be influencing our understanding of the topic. We reveal significant phylogenetic and geographic gaps in our knowledge, which is strongly biased towards lemurs, apes, and a relatively small subset of primate range countries. We show that few analyses investigate changes in primate foods relative to changes in primates themselves or their habitats, and observe that few longitudinal datasets are of sufficient duration to detect effects on the generational scale. We end by identifying areas of research inquiry that would advance our theoretical understanding of primate ecology, evolution, and adaptability, and meaningfully contribute to primate conservation.
Price discovery in chinese agricultural futures markets: A comprehensive look
Authors: Yang Jian , Li Zheng , Wang Tao
Published: December 2020

This study investigates price discovery performance for the 11 most traded agricultural commodity futures in China, proposing an improved recursive cointegration analysis. Despite a relatively short trading history and being subject to various policy interventions, China's agricultural futures markets generally play a more dominant role in the price discovery process as the markets become mature, even with further allowance for time variations and regional variations in the price discovery process. Additional analysis reveals various determinants of the contribution of futures versus local cash market prices in the price discovery process. There may also be seriously misleading inferences drawn from using nearby futures data in China.
Quantile information share under Markov regime‐switching
Authors: Lien Donald , Wang Ziling , Yu Xiaojian
Published: December 2020

This paper introduces a new quantile information share (QIS) method by extending the conventional QIS to Markov regime‐switching models. For most commodities in the full sample, our results show that the relationship among the spot QIS, the spot return quantile, and the futures return quantile is displayed by a saddle surface or a half saddle surface. The information share (IS) of the futures markets is saddle shaped in the low‐ and high‐volatility states. Moreover, the spot market has a larger IS in the low‐volatility state than that in the high‐volatility state for most commodities.
Geochemical characteristics and geological significance of Daohugou Formation at Ningcheng County of Inner Mongolia, Eastern China
Authors: Li Fulai , Ma Wenkuan , Meng Fanxue , Diao Hao
Published: December 2020

Geochemical characteristics of sedimentary rocks play an important role in indicating depositional environments and tectonic backgrounds. In this article, the major and trace elements of the Daohugou Formation are measured, which shows that the quartz and silicate minerals are abundant; trace elements, except for Rb, are depleted than that of the upper crust; the rare earth elements (REE) curves incline to the right with Eu negative anomaly and slight Ce negative anomaly. The Daohugou Formation is continental deposits with freshwater and oxic conditions, and the climate changes from warm and humid to hot and dry. The source rock of the Daohugou Formation is granite which experienced an intermediate chemical weathering under wet and warm conditions, and the tectonic background of the Daohugou Formation is a passive continental margin. It is deduced that the provenance of the Daohugou Formation is Archean gneiss in the south of the Daohugou Basin.
Ca 2.85 Ga Nb‐enriched mafic dikes from the southern Huangling dome of the Yangtze Block, southern China: Implications for Mesoarchean subduction zone processes
Authors: Jiang Xingfu , Hong Zenglin , Deng Hao , Han Qingsen
Published: December 2020

In this study, we report the first occurrence of Archean Niobium‐enriched mafic dikes in the southern Huangling dome within the Yangtze Block, southern China. Zircon U–Pb dating of three mafic dike samples yielded weighted mean 207Pb/206Pb ages of 2,858 ± 24 Ma (MSWD = 1.14), 2,889 ± 11 Ma (MSWD = 0.98), and 2,840 ± 11 Ma (MSWD = 0.17), respectively, which are interpreted as the intrusion ages of the dikes. Zircons from the host granodioritic gneiss show different trace element patterns and variable Eu anomalies, and yield an upper intercept age of 2,891 ± 32 Ma. On the basis of previous studies, the 2,891 Ma age is interpreted as the metamorphic recrystallization time caused by late tectono‐thermal events. The mafic dikes possess high Nb contents ranging from 4.7 to 18.4 ppm, which are similar to those reported from Archean, Proterozoic, and Phanerozoic Nb‐enriched basaltic rocks occurring worldwide. The Nb‐enriched mafic dikes show HFSE‐depleted patterns with significant negative Zr, Hf, and Ti anomalies, and higher Nb/U (8.29–48.42), Nb/Thpm (0.59–1.71), and Nb/Lapm (0.76–1.34) ratios than “normal” island arc volcanic rocks that are consistent with a subduction zone geochemical affinity. Positive εNd(t) values (+5.0 to +11.8) of the Nb‐enriched mafic dikes point to an extended depleted mantle characterized by elevated Sm/Nd ratio, whereas εNd(t) values (+0.3 to −2.3) and tectonic environment of the host granodioritic rocks, as well as the most widely accepted petrogenetic models of the TTG series indicate enriched mafic crustal sources. Therefore, we propose that the Nb‐enriched mafic dikes were generated from a depleted mantle with an extended history of elevated Sm/Nd ratio that was metasomatized by slab‐derived melts at ca. 2.90–2.85 Ga.
YAP and TAZ regulate Schwann cell proliferation and differentiation during peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Jeanette Haley , Marziali Leandro N. , Bhatia Urja , Hellman Abigail , Herron Jacob , Kopec Ashley M. , Feltri Maria Laura , Poitelon Yannick , Belin Sophie
Published: December 2020

YAP and TAZ are effectors of the Hippo pathway that controls multicellular development by integrating chemical and mechanical signals. Peripheral nervous system development depends on the Hippo pathway. We previously showed that loss of YAP and TAZ impairs the development of peripheral nerve as well as Schwann cell myelination. The role of the Hippo pathway in peripheral nerve regeneration has just started to be explored. After injury, Schwann cells adopt new identities to promote regeneration by converting to a repair‐promoting phenotype. While the reprogramming of Schwann cells to repair cells has been well characterized, the maintenance of such repair phenotype cannot be sustained for a very long period, which limits nerve repair in human. First, we show that short or long‐term myelin maintenance is not affected by defect in YAP and TAZ expression. Using crush nerve injury and conditional mutagenesis in mice, we also show that YAP and TAZ are regulators of repair Schwann cell proliferation and differentiation. We found that YAP and TAZ are required in repair Schwann cells for their redifferentiation into myelinating Schwann cell following crush injury. In this present study, we describe how the Hippo pathway and YAP and TAZ regulate remyelination over time during peripheral nerve regeneration.
Sequential Two‐Fold Claisen Rearrangement, One‐Pot Ring‐Closing Metathesis and Cross‐Metathesis as a Route to Substituted Benzo[b]azepine‐2‐one, Benzo[b]azepine and Benzo[b]oxepine Derivatives
Authors: Mandal Shyamasankar , Banerjee Jeet , Maity Sougata , Chattopadhyay Shital K.
Published: December 2020

A synthetic protocol involving sequential use of three atom‐economic processes viz. Claisen rearrangement, ring‐closing metathesis and cross metathesis has been developed to access 7‐substituted benzo[b]azepine and benzo[b]oxepine derivatives starting from appropriate aniline or phenol in good overall yield. A one‐pot RCM‐CM protocol has also been developed for the synthesis of benzazepine and benzoxepine derivatives.
Measures of curiosity: A literature review
Authors: Wagstaff M. Fernanda , Flores Gabriela L. , Ahmed Rawia , Villanueva Sarah
Published: December 2020

We present an assessment of curiosity measures used in organizational and social psychology literature published since the start of this century. We focus on: (a) the validity and reliability of existing measures; (b) the main dimensions tapping the operationalization of the constructs; and (c) the use of each measure in organizational settings. We identify implications of the use of each of these measures for theory and practice in the field of human resource development. Our study concludes with an assessment of the contexts in which the available measures of curiosity may be used and potential challenges in the application of these measures to further the field of human resource development. We find that curiosity measures may be most useful in organizational contexts where learning occurs, including training, socialization, collaboration, research and development, selection, global management, innovation, creativity, and career change.
Clinicopathologic, genomic and protein expression characterization of 356ROS1fusion driven solid tumors cases
Authors: Huang Richard S. P. , Haberberger James , Sokol Ethan , Schrock Alexa B. , Danziger Natalie , Madison Russell , Trabucco Sally , Jin Dexter , Pavlick Dean , Ramanan Vivek , Hole Kanchan , McGregor Kimberly , Venstrom Jeffrey , Ross Jeffrey S.
Published: December 2020

Based on the approvals of crizotinib and entrectinib by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of ROS1 positive nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we sought to examine the mutational profile of a variety of solid tumors (excluding sarcomas) withROS1fusions that underwent comprehensive genomic profiling. A review of our database was performed to extract all nonsarcoma patients withROS1fusions that were discovered by the hybrid capture‐based DNA only sequencing assays. We examined the coalterations representing potentially targetable biomarkers, resistance alterations and other alterations in these cases. In addition, we examined the histologic characteristics and protein expression with immunohistochemistry (IHC). From a series of clinically advanced nonsarcoma solid tumors, 356 unique cases withROS1fusions included 275 (77.2%) NSCLC and 81 (22.8%) non‐NSCLC. Ten novelROS1fusions were discovered. Importantly, the NSCLCROS1fusionpostumors had a higher PD‐L1 IHC expression positivity when compared to the NSCLCROS1fusionnegpopulation (P= .012, Chi‐squared). The frequency of known and likely anti‐ROS1targeted therapy resistance genomic alterations in NSCLC was 7.3% (20/275) and in non‐NSCLC was 4.9% (4/81). Overall, the coalteration profile ofROS1fusionposNSCLC and non‐NSCLC was similar with only three genes altered significantly more frequently in non‐NSCLC vs NSCLC:TERT,PTEN,APC. In our study, we characterized a large cohort ofROS1fusionposNSCLC and non‐NSCLC solid tumors and discovered 10 novelROS1fusions.
RETRACTED: Safety and efficacy of titrated oral misoprostol solution versus vaginal dinoprostone for induction of labor: A single‐center randomized control trial
Authors: Wang Xiu , Zhang Chao , Li Xia , Qi Hongyan , Liu Qing , Lei Jing
Published: December 2020

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of the hourly administration of titrated oral misoprostol solution (OMS) and vaginal dinoprostone for induction of labor.

Methods

Titrated OMS was administrated hourly for induction of labor, starting with a dose of 20 µg and terminating at a dose of 50 µg. The safety and efficacy of OMS were compared with that of vaginal dinoprostone for induction of labor.

Results

From June 2016 to October 2019, 2280 (78.3%) and 2115 (72.9%) women who received titrated OMS and vaginal dinoprostone, respectively, had a vaginal delivery (P = 0.005). Cesarean delivery was performed in 632 (21.7%) and 783 (27.0%) women who received titrated OMS and vaginal dinoprostone, respectively (P = 0.008). Tachysystole with changes in fetal heart rate (FHR) was seen in 104 (3.6%) and 249 (8.6%) women in the OMS and dinoprostone groups, respectively (P = 0.007). The frequency of non‐reassuring FHR was lower in the OMS group compared to the dinoprostone group (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

The titrated OMS has an efficacy comparable to vaginal dinoprostone. Moreover, it causes a lower incidence of cesarean delivery, lower frequency of tachysystole with changes in FHR, and non‐reassuring FHR.
Are effect sizes in self‐efficacy field changing over time? A meta–meta analysis
Authors: Jiao Xinian , Yu Xiyan , Wang Shuyuan , Wang Zishan , Gong Zhun
Published: December 2020

Theories relating to self‐efficacy have developed rapidly since Bandura first proposed the concept in 1977. In the past two decades, psychologists have carried out numerous studies to research the cultural and psychological changes in social development. The research topic of this study is whether self‐efficacy changes over time. This study uses a meta–meta analysis and includes 13 meta‐analyses, including 536 effect sizes, with a total sample size of 421,880. We find that individual self‐efficacy increases over time, which may be related to social development trends. However, the effects of interventions on self‐efficacy remain similar (Qmodel = 1.807, df = 1, p > .05), and a possible explanation is that time effects of self‐efficacy confuse the effects of intervention, because both in the intervention group and control group, the average of self‐efficacy increases over time. And we find that a general decline in the predictive effects of self‐efficacy (Qmodel = 5.117, df = 1, p = .024), especially the ability to predict relatively objective variables (e.g. job performance, teaching effectiveness, and transfer of training). A possible explanation is that as social development people tend to overestimate their self‐efficacy. Another possible explanation is that the effect sizes in the original studies being overrated, may due to intentional selective reporting or unintentional statistical errors.
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 participates in the process of atherosclerosis by modulating microRNA‐139‐5p methylation and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 expression
Authors: Zheng Xuwei , Zhao Xiaoyan , Han Zhanying , Chen Kui
Published: December 2020

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the main cause of coronary heart disease, in which enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been implied to participate in this process. Thus, this work proposed to explore the effect of EZH2 on AS from microRNA‐139‐5p (miR‐139‐5p)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) axis. EZH2, miR‐139‐5p, and STAT1 expression in arterial tissues of AS patients were detected. Human arterial smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) induced with oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) and the mice fed with high fat diet were treated with silenced EZH2 or upregulated miR‐139‐5p to explore their roles in proliferation and apoptosis of HASMCs, together with inflammation response and oxidative stress of mice. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiment was applied to verify the regulatory effect of EZH2 on miR‐139‐5p through methylation of H3K27me3. The targeting relationship between miR‐139‐5p and STAT1 was verified by online website and luciferase activity assay. Reduced miR‐139‐5p and overexpressed EHZ2 and STAT1 were found in AS. Silenced EZH2 or elevated miR‐139‐5p decreased the production of cholesterol and inhibited inflammation reaction in serum of mice with AS. Silenced EZH2 or elevated miR‐139‐5p facilitated proliferation and restrained apoptosis of ox‐LDL‐treated HASMCs, and restrained oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in arterial tissues of AS mice. EZH2 regulated miR‐139‐5p through H3K27me3, and miR‐139‐5p targeted STAT1. miR‐139‐5p silencing antagonized the effects of EZH2 down‐regulation on AS. This study manifests that down‐regulated EZH2 or elevated miR‐139‐5p inhibits ox‐LDL‐induced HASMCs apoptosis, plaque formation, and inflammatory response in AS mice, which may be related to down‐regulated STAT1.
A comparative study on the effects of three different metals (Cu, Zn and Cd) at similar toxicity levels in common carp, Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Castaldo Giovanni , Delahaut Vyshal , Slootmaekers Bart , Bervoets Lieven , Town Raewyn M. , Blust Ronny , De Boeck Gudrun
Published: December 2020

To improve our understanding of underlying toxic mechanisms, it is important to evaluate differences in effects that a variety of metals exert at concentrations representing the same toxic level to the organism. Therefore, the main goal of the present study was to compare the effects of waterborne copper (Cu(II)), zinc (Zn(II)) and cadmium (Cd (II)) on a freshwater fish, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), at concentrations being 0%, 25%, 50% and 100% of the 96 h LC50 (the concentration which is lethal to 50% of the population in 96 h). All the exposures were performed for a period of 1 week at 20°C. Our results show a rapid increase in the amount of copper and cadmium accumulated in the gills, while zinc only started to increase by the end of the experiment. All three metal ions increased metallothionein gene expression in both gills and liver. However, clear adverse effects were mainly observed for the Cu exposed group. Cu caused a decrease in Na level in gill tissue; it altered the expression of genes involved in ionoregulation such as Na+/K+‐ATPase and H+‐ATPase as well as the expression of oxidative stress‐related genes, such as catalase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S‐transferase. Zinc and cadmium exposure did not alter the ion levels in the gills. In addition, no obvious effect of oxidative stress was observed, except for a transient increase in glutathione reductase at the highest cadmium concentration.
Attenuation corrected‐optical coherence tomography for quantitative assessment of skin wound healing and scar morphology
Authors: Ghosh Biswajoy , Mandal Mousumi , Mitra Pabitra , Chatterjee Jyotirmoy
Published: December 2020

Imaging the structural modifications of underlying tissues is vital to monitor wound healing. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) images high‐resolution sub‐surface information, but suffers a loss of intensity with depth, limiting quantification. Hence correcting the attenuation loss is important. We performed swept source‐OCT of full‐thickness excision wounds for 300 days in mice skin. We used single‐scatter attenuation models to determine and correct the attenuation loss in the images. The phantom studies established the correspondence of corrected‐OCT intensity (reflectivity) with matrix density and hydration. We histologically validated the corrected‐OCT and measured the wound healing rate. We noted two distinct phases of healing—rapid and steady‐state. We also detected two compartments in normal scars using corrected OCT that otherwise were not visible in the OCT scans. The OCT reflectivity in the scar compartments corresponded to distinct cell populations, mechanical properties and composition. OCT reflectivity has potential applications in evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of healing and characterizing scars.
Natural Vitamin D in Food: To What Degree Does 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D Contribute to the Vitamin D Activity in Food?
Authors: Jakobsen Jette , Christensen Tue
Published: December 2020

Vitamin D3, vitamin D2, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3], and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D2 [25(OH)D2]constitute the vitamin D activity in food. In general, vitamin D activity in food depends on the food's fat content, the feed the animals have been fed, and the animal's exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) light. There are many gaps in our knowledge of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D in food, including the amount present in different types of food, and the amount we process in our daily dietary intake. We aimed to assess the vitamin D vitamers in food (eggs, milk, dairy products, chicken, veal, beef, and pork) on the Danish market using accredited analytical methods. We then combined these data with existing Danish data, as well as with the information from the Danish Dietary Survey to estimate the dietary intake of vitamin D3 and of 25(OH)D3 by Danes. We report the level of vitamin D in 10% minced pork from free‐range pigs slaughtered in summer as 1.39 μg vitamin D3/100 g and 0.40 μg 25(OH)D3/100 g, which are significantly higher amounts (p < 0.001) than in early spring. The levels of vitamin D2 and 25(OH)D2 are usually <0.05 μg/100 g, though in beef they are up to 0.14 μg/100 g. 25(OH)D3 accounts for up to 100% in veal and 8% in fat from free‐range pigs. In the Danish diet, the share of 25(OH)D3 is 24% for children (4–17 years) and 18% for adults (18‐75 years). Changes in animal‐feeding strategy in the agriculture sector could change the share of 25(OH)D3 to 11% and 12% if extra vitamin D3 is added to the feed, and the animals are exposed to sunlight or UVB lightlight. Replacing vitamin D3 by 25(OH)D3 in the feed may result in a share of 25(OH)D3 of 52% and 40%, respectively, in children and adults. These estimates are based on the assumption that vitamin D3 and 25(OH)D3 contribute equally to the vitamin D activity. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
In silico study, synthesis, and evaluation of the antimalarial activity of hybrid dimethoxy pyrazole 1,3,5‐triazine derivatives
Authors: Gogoi Pinku , Shakya Anshul , Ghosh Surajit K. , Gogoi Neelutpal , Gahtori Prashant , Singh Nardev , Bhattacharyya Dibya R. , Singh Udaya P. , Bhat Hans R.
Published: December 2020

Malaria continues to become a major global health problem, particularly in Sub‐Saharan Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The widespread emergence of resistance to first‐line drugs has further bolstered an urgent need for a new and cost‐effective antimalarial(s). Thus, the present study enumerates the synthesis of novel hybrid dimethoxy pyrazole 1,3,5‐triazine derivatives 7(a–j) and their in silico results short‐listed three compounds with good binding energies and dock scores. Docking analysis shows that hydrogen‐bonding predominates and typically involves key residues, such as Asp54, Tyr170, Ile164, and Arg122. The in vitro antimalarial evaluation of three top‐ranked compounds (7e, 7g, and 7h) showed half‐maximal inhibitory concentration values range from 53.85 to 100 μg/ml against chloroquine‐sensitive strain 3D7 of Plasmodium falciparum. Compound 7e may be utilized as a lead for further optimization work in drug discovery due to good antimalarial activity.
Neutral gold clusters studied by the isothermal Brownian‐type molecular dynamics and metadynamics molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Lai San Kiong , Lim Chong Chiat
Published: December 2020

The DFTB theory was combined with the isothermal Brownian‐type molecular dynamics (MD) and metadynamics molecular dynamics (MMD) algorithms to perform simulation studies for Au clusters. Two representative DFTB parametrizations were investigated. In one parametrization, the DFTB‐A, the Slater–Koster parameters in the DFTB energy function were determined focusing on the ionic repulsive energy part, Erep and the other, the DFTB‐B, due attention was paid to the electronic band‐structure energy part, Eband. Minimized structures of these two parametrizations were separately applied in MD and MMD simulations to generate unbiased and biased trajectories in collective variable (CV) space, respectively. Here, we found the MD simulations monitored at 300 K manifest fluxional characteristics in planar cluster Au9/DFTB‐A, but give no discernible tracts of fluxionality for planar Au8/DFTB‐A and Au8/DFTB‐B, for nonplanar Au10/DFTB‐A and, to some extent, for nonplanar Au9/DFTB‐B; they are plausibly being hindered by higher‐than kBT energy barriers. Very recent FIR‐MPD spectroscopy measurements, however, were reported to have detected at 300 K both the planar and nonplanar neutral Aun clusters in the size range 5 ≤ n ≤ 13. The failure of MD simulations has prompted us to apply the MMD simulation and construct the free energy landscape (FEL) in CV space. Through scrutinizing the FELs of these clusters and their associated structures, we examine the relative importance of Erep/DFTB‐A and Eband/DFTB‐B in unraveling the covalent‐like behavior of valence electrons in Aun. Most important of all, we shall evaluate the DFTB parametrization in MMD strategy through comparing extensively the simulation data recorded with the gas‐phase experimental data.
One‐pot synthesis of novel (E)‐3‐(3,8a‐dihydro‐2H‐oxazolo[3,2‐a]pyridin‐2‐ylidene)chroman‐2‐one derivatives
Authors: Olyaei Abolfazl , Feizy Elaheh , Aghajanzadeh Atiye
Published: December 2020

An efficient synthetic procedure for the preparation of novel (E)‐3‐(3,8a‐dihydro‐2H‐oxazolo[3,2‐a]pyridin‐2‐ylidene)chroman‐2‐one derivatives was developed. A sequential one‐pot, two‐step tandem reaction starting from 3‐(2‐bromoacetyl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one derivatives synthesized, pyridine, and naphthols in the presence of triethylamine proceeded smoothly in acetonitrile under reflux conditions. In this process, 2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)ethyl)pyridinium bromide derivatives as intermediate produced in situ, followed by Michael addition of naphthoxide anion and intramolecular cylization, resulted the corresponding products in good to high yields. All of the compounds were obtained in high purity without any use of more purification.
Accurate Estimation of the Duration of Testicular Ischemia Using Creatine Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CrCEST) Imaging
Authors: Takahashi Yusuke , Kioka Hidetaka , Saito Shigeyoshi , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Asano Yoshihiro , Takashima Seiji , Yoshioka Yoshichika , Sakata Yasushi
Published: December 2020

Background

In the management of testicular torsion, estimating the duration of testicular ischemia is essential for deciding on an appropriate surgical treatment, but there are currently limited evaluation methods.

Purpose

To perform testicular creatine chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrCEST) imaging and to evaluate its ability to accurately estimate the duration of testicular ischemia.

Study Type

Prospective.

Animal Model

C57BL/6 control mice (n = 6) and testicular ischemia models induced by clamping the spermatic cord (n = 14). Eight of testicular ischemia models were serially imaged at two or three timepoints and a total of 26 images of ischemic testis were obtained. The ischemic duration ranged from 6–42 hours.

Field Strength/Sequence

11.7T vertical‐bore MRI/segment fast low‐angle shot acquisition for CEST.

Assessment

CrCEST imaging was performed and the magnetization transfer ratio for the CrCEST effect (MTRCr**) was calculated in control mice and testicular ischemia models. Correlation analysis between the duration of testicular ischemia and MTRCr** decline was performed.

Statistical Tests

Paired t‐test, and Pearson's correlation analysis.

Results

In control mice, the CrCEST effect in testes was significantly more than five times higher than that in skeletal muscle. MTRCr** did not differ significantly between the right and left testes (8.6 ± 0.8 vs. 8.3 ± 0.6, P = 0.96). In testicular ischemia models, MTRCr** of ischemic testes was significantly lower than that of controls (4 ± 2 vs. 8.9 ± 0.6, P < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a strong linear correlation between MTRCr** decline and the duration of ischemia (r = 0.96, P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

A decreased CrCEST effect in ischemic testes correlated well with ischemic duration. Testicular CrCEST imaging was useful for accurately estimating the duration of testicular ischemia.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Hepatitis E virus genotype 1f outbreak in Bangladesh, 2018
Authors: Baki Abdullah A. , Haque Warda , Giti Susane , Khan Arif A. , Rahman Mohammad M. , Jubaida Nishat , Rahman Mustafizur
Published: December 2020

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a significant public health issue in many developing countries, causing waterborne outbreaks as well as sporadic hepatitis. We report here an outbreak of HEV genotype 1f infection during April–May 2018 among people living at Halisohor, a low land in the southern part of Chottogram District of Bangladesh. A total of 933 patients were admitted to Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Chottogram, with symptoms of acute hepatitis. Among them, 550 patients were tested by ELISA for HEV‐specific (IgM) and all were positive. Genotyping, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis based on ORF2 region revealed that the outbreak was caused by genotype 1f and the strains were closely related to the previously reported HEV strains that caused the outbreak in Bangladesh in 2010. The current outbreak was most likely linked with water supply as fecal contamination in water was evident and could be prevented by ensuring access to safe drinking water.
Adenosine—A drug with myriad utility in the diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias
Authors: Gupta Anunay , Lokhandwala Yash , Rai Nitish , Malviya Amit
Published: December 2020

Adenosine has been used in the emergency treatment of arrhythmia for more than nine decades. However, cardiologists are often unfamiliar about its basic mechanism and various diagnostic and therapeutic uses, considering it mainly as a therapeutic drug for supraventricular tachycardia. This article discusses the role of adenosine relevant to emergency physicians, cardiologists, and electrophysiologists. Understanding of the mechanisms of adenosine and its electrophysiological effects is discussed first, followed by dosing, side effects, diagnostic, and therapeutic uses. Finally, the role of adenosine in the electrophysiology laboratory is discussed.
Home Monitoring trends during COVID‐19 infection
Authors: De Simone Vincenzo , Guardalben Stefania , Guarise Paola , Padovani Nicola , Giacopelli Daniele , Zanotto Gabriele
Published: December 2020

Background

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) recipients could have an unfavorable prognosis if infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID‐19). We aimed to analyze the data daily transmitted by the Home Monitoring (HM) system (BIOTRONIK, Berlin, Germany) of CIEDs during the infection.

Methods

We identified CIED patients followed with the HM who experienced COVID‐19 clinical manifestations. The daily trends of the following HM variables were analyzed: mean heart rate (HR), physical activity, thoracic impedance (TI), ventricular and atrial arrhythmic burden.

Results

The study cohort included 10 CIED patients (median age 90 [84‐92] years, male 90%) with acute respiratory syndrome. The HR showed an increase of a value ranging from 10 to 30 bpm well in advance of the severe clinical manifestations. The physical activity was generally low during the entire infection course. The TI decreased in patients presented with pulmonary edema, but increased significantly (8 to 25 Ω) in most COVID‐19 patients (8 out of 10) suggesting an association with pulmonary fibrosis. Arrhythmic complications were also found in half of the patients.

Conclusion

The trends of HR and TI in CIEDs recipients infected by the COVID‐19 often showed early recurrent patterns before adverse clinical manifestations.
Biodegradation of erythromycin by Delftia lacustris RJJ‐61 and characterization of its erythromycin esterase
Authors: Ren Jianjun , Wang Zhenzhu , Deng Liujie , Niu Dongze , Fan Bo , Huhe Taoli , Li Zhenzhen , Zhang Jin , Li Chunyu
Published: December 2020

The residual erythromycin in fermentation waste can pollute the environment and threaten human health. However, there are no effective approaches to remedy this issue. In this study, an erythromycin‐degrading bacterium named RJJ‐61 was isolated and identified as a strain of Delftia lacustris based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. The degradation ability of this strain was also evaluated; it could degrade 45.18% of erythromycin at 35°C in 120 h. Furthermore, the key degradation gene ereA was cloned from strain RJJ‐61 and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21; the molecular weight of the expressed protein was ~45 kDa. The enzyme activity of EreA was 108.0 mU ml−1 at 35°C and pH 7.0. Finally, the EreA protein was used to degrade erythromycin from mycelial dregs and 50% diluted solution, and the removal rates in them were 41.42% and 69.78%, respectively. In summary, D. lacustris RJJ‐61 is a novel erythromycin‐degrading strain that has great potential to remove erythromycin pollutants from the environment.
Bacterial adhesion on spinal implants: An in vitro study of “hot spots”
Authors: Luca Andrea , Gallazzi Enrico , De Vecchi Elena , Brayda‐Bruno Marco , Lovi Alessio , Babbi Lisa , Peretti Giuseppe Michele , Bidossi Alessandro
Published: December 2020

Few studies evaluated bacterial colonization of spinal implants from a “topographic” point of view. This lack of knowledge could hinder the development of more effective strategies in the prevention and treatment of postoperative spinal infections. The aim of this in vitro study was the analysis of the adhesion pattern of sessile cells on conventional spinal implants, to identify “hot spots” on implants where bacterial adhesion could be favored. Clinically relevant Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were grown on commercially available end product spinal implants. To identify sessile cells attached to implant surfaces, confocal laser scan microscopy was used. Different areas from the spinal instrumentations (both Ti and CoCr) were selected for biofilm quantification. Bacterial biofilm was markedly increased in the cut of the rods, both Ti and CoCr, as the uneven surface deriving from the cut might foster cell adhesion. Though not statistically significant, a difference was observed between the rod and the area of the notch, possibly as a consequence of the smoothening effect deriving from the bending of the rod. Finally, the amount of biofilm produced on cobalt‐chromium surfaces was always more significant than that formed on titanium surfaces. This study highlights how bacterial adhesion through biofilm formation is favored on the surfaces of higher irregularity and that staphylococci are able to increase sessile biomass on CoCr surfaces. These preliminary results show how surface modifications on the implants may play a key role in bacterial adhesion, opening an exciting field for future research.
Distinct expression trend of signature antigens of Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis correlated with clinical outcomes
Authors: Fu Wei , He Wenbin , Ren Youliang , Li Zhengdao , Liu Jinyue , Liu Yi , Xie Zhao , Xu Jianzhong , Bi Qing , Kong Mingxiang , Lee Charles C. , Daiss John L. , Muthukrishnan Gowrishankar , Owen John R. , Kates Stephen L. , Peng Jiachen , Xie Chao
Published: December 2020

The major limitations of clinical outcome predictions of osteomyelitis mediated by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) are not specific and definitive. To this end, current studies aim to investigate host immune responses of trend changes of the iron‐regulated surface determinant (Isd) of IsdA, IsdB, IsdH, cell wall‐modifying proteins of amidase (Amd) and glucosaminidase (Gmd), and secreted virulence factor of chemotaxis inhibitory protein S. aureus (CHIPS) and staphylococcal complement inhibitor (SCIN) longitudinally to discover their correlationship with clinical outcomes. A total of 55 patients with confirmed S. aureus infection of the long bone by clinical and laboratory methods were recruited for the study. Whole blood was collected at 0, 6, 12 months for the serum that was used to test IsdA, IsdB, IsdH, Gmd, Amd, CHIPS, and SCIN using a customized Luminex assay after clinical standard care parameters were collected. The patients were then divided into two groups: (1) infection controlled versus (2) adverse outcome based on clinical criteria for statistical analysis. We found that standard clinical parameters were unable to distinguish therapeutic outcomes. Significant overexpression of all antigens was confirmed in infection patients at 0‐, 6‐, and 12‐month time points. A distinct expression trend and dynamic changes of IsdB, Amd, Gmd, and CHIPS were observed between infection controlled and adverse outcome patients, while the IsdA, IsdH, SCIN remained demonstrated no statistical significance. We conclude that dynamic changes of specific antigens could predict clinical outcomes of S. aureus osteomyelitis. Clinical Relevance: The trend changes of host immune responses to S. aureus specific antigens of IsdB, Gmd, Amd, and CHIPS could predict clinical outcomes of S. aureus osteomyelitis.
Phonons investigation of ZnO@ZnS core‐shell nanostructures with active layer
Authors: Hadzic Branka , Matovic Branko , Randjelovic Marjan , Kostic Radmila , Romcevic Maja , Trajic Jelena , Paunovic Novica , Romcevic Nebojsa
Published: December 2020

In the present work experimental study of the ZnO@ZnS core‐shell nanostructure with an active layer obtained by conversion of zinc oxide powders with H2S is reported. Тhe prepared structures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and far‐infrared spectroscopy. Top surface optical phonon (TSO) in ZnO, characteristic for the cylindrical nano‐objects, the surface optical phonon (SOP) mode of ZnS, and SOP modes in ZnO@ZnS core‐shell nanostructure are registered. Local mode of oxygen in ZnS and gap mode of sulfur in ZnO are also registered. This result is due to the existence of an active layer in the space between ZnO core and ZnS shell, which is very important for the application of these materials as thermoelectrics.
Delay in surgery is associated with axillary upstaging of clinically node negative breast cancer patients
Authors: Khader Adam , Chang Shu‐Ching , Santamaria‐Barria Juan , Garland‐Kledzik Mary , Scholer Anthony , Goldfarb Melanie , Grumley Janie , Fischer Trevan
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

Most breast cancer (BC) patients present with early disease and clinically negative lymph nodes (cN0). Timing of surgery has not been standardized. We hypothesized that surgical delay results in an increased likelihood of nodal metastasis.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with cN0 BC undergoing surgery with sentinel lymph node biopsy as initial therapy between 2006 and 2014 were identified in the NCDB and divided into four groups based on time intervals between diagnosis and surgery (<4 weeks, 4–8 weeks, 8–12 weeks, and >12 weeks). Regression analysis evaluated the independent impact of surgical timing on axillary upstaging and survival.

Results

Of 355,443 patients with cN0 BC, 39.6% had surgery within 4 weeks and 5.4% more than 12 weeks from diagnosis. After controlling for relevant factors, a month delay in surgery was associated with an increased likelihood of nodal positivity (odds ratio: 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–1.05; p < .001) and decreased overall survival (hazard ratio: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02–1.04; p < .001). When compared to patients who underwent surgery less than 4 weeks from diagnosis, the absolute increase in nodal positivity and relative risks were 5.3% (95% CI: 0.047–0.059) and 1.34 (95% CI: 1.30–1.38), respectively, in the more than 12 weeks group.

Conclusions

Delay in BC surgery in cN0 patients was associated with an increased likelihood of axillary upstaging and decreased survival.
Sentinel lymph node mapping with indocyanine green compared to blue dye tracer in gynecologic malignancies—A single center experience of 218 patients
Authors: Pölcher M. , Matz S. , Braun M. , Brambs C. , Beer M. , Hamann M.
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

To compare the detection rates of sentinel lymph nodes after converting the tracer technique from blue dye to indocyanine green (ICG).

Methods

Patients with uterine or cervical cancer were enrolled for sentinel lymph node (SLN) dissection. A total of 109 consecutive patients were analyzed and compared to a historical cohort of 109 consecutive patients with the sentinel blue dye technique. SLNs were analyzed by ultrastaging.

Results

The bilateral mapping rate of sentinel nodes was significantly higher with the ICG (78%; n = 85) compared to the blue dye tracer (61%; n = 67; p = .006). Neither the mean number of SLN nor the rate of low volume metastases showed significant differences between both cohorts. In the subgroup of endometrial cancer patients, the number of systematic lymph node dissection (LND) was significantly lower in the ICG cohort compared to the blue dye cohort (9% vs. 28%, p = .001).

Conclusions

ICG improved the detection rate of pelvic SLN compared to blue dye and may be considered as the superior technique. In clinical practice, the rate of systematic LND further decreased after incorporating SLN mapping with ICG. Reliable safety data are still pending.