bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of gut microbiota on α‐amanitin tolerance in Drosophila tripunctata
Authors: Griffin Logan H. , Reed Laura K.
Published: August 2020

The bacterial gut microbiota of many animals is known to be important for many physiological functions including detoxification. The selective pressures imposed on insects by exposure to toxins may also be selective pressures on their symbiotic bacteria, who thus may contribute to the mechanism of toxin tolerance for the insect. Amatoxins are a class of cyclopeptide mushroom toxins that primarily act by binding to RNA polymerase II and inhibiting transcription. Several species of mycophagous Drosophila are tolerant to amatoxins found in mushrooms of the genus Amanita, despite these toxins being lethal to most other known eukaryotes. These species can tolerate amatoxins in natural concentrations to utilize toxic mushrooms as larval hosts, but the mechanism by which these species are tolerant remains unknown. Previous data have shown that a local population of D. tripunctata exhibits significant genetic variation in toxin tolerance. This study assesses the potential role of the microbiome in α‐amanitin tolerance in six wild‐derived strains of Drosophila tripunctata. Normal and antibiotic‐treated samples of six strains were reared on diets with and without α‐amanitin, and then scored for survival from the larval stage to adulthood and for development time to pupation. Our results show that a substantial reduction in bacterial load does not influence toxin tolerance in this system, while confirming genotype and toxin‐specific effects on survival are independent of the microbiome composition. Thus, we conclude that this adaptation to exploit toxic mushrooms as a host is likely intrinsic to the fly's genome and not a property of their microbiome.
Hot spring frogs (Buergeria japonica) prefer cooler water to hot water
Authors: Komaki Shohei , Sutoh Yoichi , Kobayashi Kensuke , Saito Shigeru , Saito Claire T. , Igawa Takeshi , Lau Quintin
Published: August 2020

“Hot spring frog” is an informal name used for the Japanese stream tree frog (Buergeria japonica), which is widely distributed in Taiwan and the Ryukyu Archipelago in Japan. Some populations of the species are known to inhabit hot springs. However, water temperature can be extremely high around the sources of hot springs. Thus, it is questionable whether B. japonica selectively inhabits such dangerous environments. To address this question, we conducted a series of observations of water temperature preferences of a hot spring population of B. japonica in Kuchinoshima Island in Japan: (a) a field observation of tadpole density in water pools of different temperatures, (b) a field observation of water temperatures where adult males appear for breeding, and (c) an indoor observation of water temperatures selected by adult females for oviposition. As a result, tadpoles showed a higher density in cooler water. Adult males avoided water pools hotter than 37°C, and adult females selected cooler pools for oviposition. Camera records also showed that adult individuals tend to appear around cooler pools. Thus, we did not find any support for the hypothesis that hot spring frogs prefer hot water. Conversely, they apparently tended to prefer cooler water if it was available. Water temperatures around the sources of the hot spring exceed thermal tolerances of the species and could be a strong selective pressure on the population. Thus, the ability to sense and avoid lethal temperatures may be a key ecological and physiological characteristic for the species that inhabit hot springs.
Benzoisothiazolone (BIT): A Fast, Efficient, and Recyclable Redox Reagent for Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis
Authors: Bukya Hemalatha , Nayani Kiranmai , Gangireddy Pavankumar , Mainkar Prathama S.
Published: August 2020

Solid‐phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), a preferred synthetic procedure, generates by‐products and effluents in multiple equivalents for one equivalent of desired product. Presented herein is the use of a fast and efficient coupling protocol for SPPS using a benzoisothiazolone (BIT), which can be fully recycled. The BIT, as redox activator, works under very mild conditions and generates minimal amount of waste. As a case study, the BIT coupling protocol is applied to the synthesis of side chain of the recently discovered antibiotic, teixobactin.
Copper/Iodine‐Cocatalyzed C‐C Cleavage of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds Toward 1,2‐Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Chen Li‐Sha , Zhang Lu‐Bing , Tian Yue , Li Jin‐Heng , Liu Yong‐Quan
Published: August 2020

A new, general oxidative route to transformations of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds to 1,2‐dicarbonyl compounds by merging copper and I2 catalysis is described. This method is applicable to broad 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds, including 1,3‐diketones, 1,3‐keto esters and 1,3‐keto amides. Mechanistical studies show that the reaction is achieved via the C–C bond cleavage and CO release cascades.
Fail‐safe optimization of viscous dampers for seismic retrofitting
Authors: Pollini Nicolò
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a new optimization approach for designing minimum‐cost fail‐safe distributions of fluid viscous dampers for seismic retrofitting. Failure is modeled as either complete damage of the dampers or partial degradation of the dampers' properties. In general, this leads to optimization problems with large number of constraints. This may result in high computational costs if all the constraints are simultaneously considered during the optimization analysis. Thus, to reduce the computational effort, the use of a working‐set optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper. The main idea is to solve a sequence of relaxed optimization subproblems with a small subset of all constraints. The algorithm terminates once a solution of a subproblem is found that satisfies all the constraints of the problem. The retrofitting cost is minimized with constraints on the interstory drifts at the peripheries of frame structures. The structures considered are subjected to a realistic ensemble of ground motions, and their response is evaluated with time‐history analyses. The transient optimization problem is efficiently solved with a gradient‐based sequential linear programming algorithm. The gradients of the response functions are calculated with a consistent adjoint sensitivity analysis procedure. Promising results attained for 3‐D irregular frames are presented and discussed. The numerical results highlight the fact that the optimized layout and size of the dampers can change significantly even for moderate levels of damage.
Cysteine and homocysteine as biomarker of various diseases
Authors: Rehman Tahniat , Shabbir Muhammad Asim , Inam‐Ur‐Raheem Muhammad , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Ahmad Nazir , Liu Zhi‐Wei , Ahmad Muhammad Haseeb , Siddeeg Azhari , Abid Muhammad , Aadil Rana Muhammad
Published: August 2020

Cysteine and homocysteine (Hcy), both sulfur‐containing amino acids (AAs), produced from methionine another sulfur‐containing amino acid, which is converted to Hcy and further converted to cysteine. This article aims to highlight the link between cysteine and Hcy, and their mechanisms, important functions, play in the body and their role as a biomarker for various types of diseases. So that using cysteine and Hcy as a biomarker, we can prevent and diagnose many diseases. This review concluded that hyperhomocysteinemia (elevated levels of homocysteine) is considered as toxic for cells and is associated with different health problems. Hyperhomocysteinemia and low levels of cysteine associated with various diseases like cardiovascular diseases (CVD), ischemic stroke, neurological disorders, diabetes, cancer like lung and colorectal cancer, renal dysfunction‐linked conditions, and vitiligo.
Microfacies and diagenetic overprints in the limestones of Middle Jurassic Fort Member (Jaisalmer Formation), Western Rajasthan, India: Implications for the depositional environment, cyclicity, and reservoir quality
Authors: Ahmad Faiz , Quasim Mohammad Adnan , Ahmad Abul Hasnat Masood
Published: August 2020

The present study investigates the microfacies and the effects of diagenetic processes on the reservoir quality of limestones of the Fort Member, Jaisalmer Formation, Western Rajasthan. The study interpolates an integrated approach including field studies, petrography, staining, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. The Fort Member is composed of medium‐ to thick‐bedded, nodular highly fossiliferous limestones, which are fine‐ to medium‐grained, poorly‐ to very well‐sorted, and comprise angular‐ to well‐rounded grains of low to high sphericity. These limestones contain abundant skeletal (bivalves, brachiopods, echinoderms, foraminifera, algae, gastropods, sponge, coral, and calcispheres) and non‐skeletal grains (intraclasts, ooids, and peloids). On the basis of detailed petrographic investigations, eight microfacies have been recognized including: bioclastic wackestone, whole‐fossil wackestone, bioclastic lithoclastic packstone, aggregate grainstone, peloidal grainstone, ooidal grainstone, bioclastic grainstone, and coated bioclastic grainstone. Based on the microfacies analysis, the limestones of the Fort Member are inferred to have been deposited in shoal, lagoon, and open marine environments. The diagenetic overprints of the Fort Member limestones is characterized by the several diagenetic features such as micritization, cementation, dolomitization, compaction, dissolution, silicification, neomorphism (aragonite to calcite transformation and development of microspar), and secondary porosity. Such main diagenetic features affecting the carbonates are developed in marine phreatic, meteoric phreatic, mixed meteoric phreatic and burial diagenetic environments. Micritization of allochems, dolomitization of lime muds, and cementation by isopachous calcite, granular calcite cement, neomorphism, and recrystallization of bioclasts are developed in meteoric‐phreatic diagenesis. The meteoric‐vadose diagenesis led to prevalence of dissolution process and sparry calcite infilling the fractures. Dolomitization, blocky calcite cement, and silicification processes were developed during the burial diagenesis. These diagenetic processes have direct effects on the modification of both intergranular and intragranular/crystalline porosity. In this manner, it is found that the calcite cementation, micritization, and compaction were responsible for the reduction of the pore spaces, whereas dolomitization, dissolution, formation of moldic pores, and fracturing increased the pore volumes. Therefore, the enhanced pore volumes improved the carbonate reservoir characteristics, suggesting the limestones of the Fort Member to be a better carbonate reservoir for hydrocarbon accumulation.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hispanic Patients: Trends and Outcomes in a Large United States Cohort
Authors: Pomenti Sydney , Gandle Cassandra , Abu Sbeih Hamzah , Phipps Meaghan , Livanos Alexandra , Guo Averill , Yeh Jonathan , Burney Heather , Liu Hao , Dakhoul Lara , Kettler Carla , Gawrieh Samer , deLemos Andrew , Scanga Andrew , Chalasani Naga , Miller Ethan , Wattacheril Julia
Published: August 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a strong racial and ethnic association, with Hispanic patients having a higher incidence and mortality. However, there are limited data regarding clinical features and outcomes. This study includes Hispanic and non‐Hispanic White patients with HCC diagnosed between January 2000 and June 2014 from five United States academic medical centers. The chi‐square test for categorical variables and analysis of variance for continuous variables were used for statistical analysis, with two‐tailed P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Of 5,327 patients, 4,217 met inclusion criteria, of whom 12.3% were Hispanic patients. Compared to their non‐Hispanic White counterparts, Hispanic patients were older at age of diagnosis (mean ± SD, 64.2 ± 10.9 vs. 61.9 ± 10.5 years; P < 0.0001), with higher body mass index (29.6 ± 6.5 vs. 28.8 ± 5.9 kg/m2; P = 0.01), and were more likely to have diabetes and hypertension. Hispanic patients had significantly more nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol‐related liver disease (both P < 0.0001). Hispanic patients presented with larger tumors, more advanced stage disease, and increased rates of macrovascular invasion and extrahepatic spread. HCCs in Hispanic patients were less likely to be within Milan criteria (26% vs. 38%; P < 0.0001) and were less likely to be treated with resection (9% vs. 13%; P = 0.03) or transplantation (8% vs. 19%; P < 0.0001). Hispanic patients had a median overall survival of 1.4 years (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22‐1.56), which was similar to that of non‐Hispanic White patients (1.3 years; 95% CI, 1.26‐1.41; P = 0.07). Conclusion: Hispanic patients with HCC were more likely to have metabolic risk factors for chronic liver disease, including obesity. Despite diagnosis at more advanced stages with less curative intervention than non‐Hispanic White patients, median overall survival was similar between groups.
Long non‐coding RNA uc.80‐ overexpression promotes M2 polarization of microglias to ameliorate depression in rats
Authors: Gu Xun‐Hu , Xu Li‐Jun , Zheng Li‐Li , Yang Yuan‐Jian , Tang Zhen‐Yu , Wu Han‐Jun , Chen Zhen‐Zhen , Wang Wei
Published: August 2020

Microglia polarization is associated with the pathogenesis of depression. A previous study shows that long non‐coding RNA uc.80‐ is down‐regulated in the hippocampus of depressed rats. Thus, this article aims to investigate the role of uc.80‐ in microglia polarization in depression. We first established depression model rats by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) regiment. We found that hippocampus of depressed rats exhibited an increase of M1 microglias and a decrease of M2 microglias. uc.80‐ was down‐regulated in hippocampus of depressed rats. Furthermore, the detection of behaviouristics of depressed rats showed that uc.80‐ overexpression alleviated depression of rats. In addition, uc.80‐ overexpression promoted M2 polarization of microglias in vivo and in vitro. uc.80‐ overexpression led to a decrease in apoptosis of hippocampal neurons in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, our study confirms that lncRNA uc.80‐ overexpression ameliorates depression in rats by promoting M2 polarization of microglias. Thus, our work suggests that uc.80‐ may be a target gene for depression treatment.
Hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid cotreatment for biofunctionalization of polyetheretherketone in M2 macrophage polarization and osteogenesis
Authors: Huo Shicheng , Meng Xiangchao , Zhang Shutao , Yue Bing , Zhao Yaochao , Long Teng , Nie Bin'en , Wang You
Published: August 2020

Due to its excellent mechanical and low‐friction properties, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has been widely investigated for use in orthopedic applications over the past decade. However, the bioinertness and poor osteogenic properties of PEEK have hampered its clinical application. In this study, the surface of PEEK was modified by co‐treatment with hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid (AFN). The microstructures of the modified PEEK surfaces were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. The water contact angles of the surfaces were also measured. To evaluate their cytocompatibility, PEEK samples were used as substrates to culture rat bone mesenchymal stem cells, and cell adhesion, viability, and expression of specific marker genes were measured. Treatment of PEEK with AFN (PEEK‐AFN) was found to enable better osteoblast adhesion, spreading, and proliferation; the activity of alkaline phosphatase (an early osteogenic differentiation marker) was also found to be enhanced post‐treatment. Furthermore, PEEK‐AFN was able to modulate macrophage polarization and down regulated the expression of proinflammatory factors via inhibiting the NF‐κB pathway. Thus, treatment of PEEK with AFN could promote M2 polarization of the macrophages and stimulate the differentiation of osteoblasts. These results provide valuable information that could facilitate the use of PEEK‐based composites as bone implant materials.
Use of Masson's and Jones–Dole equations to study different types of interactions of three pharmacologically important drugs in ethanol
Authors: Shakeel Muhammad , Mehmood Khalid
Published: August 2020

The volumetric and viscometric study of three allopathic drugs (sodium valporate, benzalkonium chloride, and losartan potassium) in ethanol solvent is reported here. This study was carried out at four different temperatures that is, from 288.15 to 318.15 K. The accurately measured density values were used to calculate partial molar volume at infinite dilution, solute–solute interaction parameter, Hepler's constant, partial molar expansivity constant, and isobaric thermal expansion coefficient. The viscosity measurements were carried out for the calculation of constants of Jones–Dole equation and to calculate different thermodynamic parameters of viscous flow which include standard free energy change, standard enthalpy change, and standard entropy change of viscous flow. All these viscometric and volumetric parameters are useful for understanding the different types of interactions of drugs in solution and to study the drug action in body. The results of both volumetric and viscometric studies showed that all drugs had structure promoting effect on solvent, existing of strong solute–solvent interaction, and very weak solute–solute interaction. For all these drugs, solvophobic interaction was found to be dominant over electrostriction. Viscometric studies also showed the existing of stronger solute–solvent interaction in ground state as compared to that in transition state.
MicroRNA‐148a‐3p inhibits cancer progression and is a novel screening biomarker for gastric cancer
Authors: Bao Chenhui , Guo Lin
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Dysregulation of miR‐148a‐3p in gastric cancer was reported. However, the diagnostic potential and biological function of miR‐148a‐3p in gastric cancer progression is not fully studied.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis and RT‐qPCR assay were performed to analyze the expression of miR‐148a‐3p in gastric cancer tissues and plasma of gastric cancer patients. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to analyze the diagnostic value of miR‐148a‐3p. In vitro proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, sphere formation assay and Western blotting assay were performed to evaluate the biological function of miR‐148a‐3p in gastric cancer progression.

Results

miR‐148a‐3p was significantly down‐regulated in both gastric cancer patients' tissue and plasma samples. Plasma miR‐148a‐3p showed promising efficacy for gastric cancer diagnosis. Overexpression of miR‐148a‐3p could inhibit the proliferative phenotype, metastatic phenotype, and cancer stem‐like properties of gastric cancer cells.

Conclusions

miR‐148a‐3p inhibits cancer progression and is a novel diagnostic biomarker for gastric cancer.
Placenta percreta‐induced uterine rupture with right ovarian vein thrombus protracting into the inferior vena cava
Authors: Yapar Eyi Elif Gül , Halıcı Öztürk Filiz , Alkan Mihriban
Published: August 2020

In Turkey, the triad of prior cesarean section (CS), placenta previa, and placenta accreta spectrum is worth of concern. Here, we present an unpublished complication of placenta percreta‐induced uterine rupture: ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) protracting into the inferior vena cava (IVC) in a woman with a previous CS and placenta previa. We propose the integration of the sub‐xiphoid transabdominal long axis of the IVC into the point‐of‐care ultrasound practice with color Doppler to establish the diagnosis of complicated OVT. To prevent placenta accreta spectrum‐related complications, there is an urgent need to lower CS rate both globally and in Turkey.
Association of strong risk of hTERT gene polymorphic variants to malignant glioma and its prognostic implications with respect to different histological types and survival of glioma cases
Authors: Pandith Arshad A. , Wani Zahoor A. , Qasim Iqbal , Afroze Dil , Manzoor Usma , Amin Ina , Baba Shahid M. , Koul Aabid , Anwar Iqra , Mohammad Fozia , Bhat Abdul R. , Shah Parveen
Published: August 2020

Background

Germline genetic variants of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) are known to predispose for various malignancies, including glioma. The present study investigated genetic variation of hTERT T/G (rs2736100) and hTERT G/A (rs2736098) with respect to glioma risk.

Methods

Confirmed cases (n = 106) were tested against 210 cancer‐free healthy controls by the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism technique for genotyping.

Results

Homozygous variant ‘GG' genotype of rs2736100 frequency was > 4‐fold significantly different in cases versus controls (39.6% 17.2%; p < 0.0001). Furthermore, variant ‘G' allele was found to be significantly associated with cases (0.5 versus 0.2 in controls; p < 0.0001). Homozygous variant rs2736098 ‘AA' genotype (35.8% versus 23.8%) and allele ‘A' (0.49 versus 0.34) showed a marked significant difference in cases and controls, respectively (p < 0.05). In hTERT rs2736100, the GG genotype significantly presented more in higher grades and GBM (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the GG variant of hTERT rs2736100 had a poor probability with respect to the overall survival of patients compared to TG and TT genotypes (log rank p = 0.03). Interestingly, two haplotypes of hTERT rs2736100/rs2736098 were identified as GG and GA that conferred a > 3‐ and 5‐fold risk to glioma patients respectively, where variant G/A haplotype was observed to have the highest impact with respect to glioma risk (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that hTERT rs2736098 and rs2736100 variants play an important role in conferring a strong risk of developing glioma. Furthermore, hTERT rs2736100 GG variant appears to play a role in the bad prognosis of glioma patients. Haplotypes GG and GA could prove to be vital tools for monitoring risk in glioma patients.
Protective effects of P2X7R antagonist in sepsis‐induced acute lung injury in mice via regulation of circ_0001679 and circ_0001212 and downstream Pln, Cdh2, and Nprl3 expression
Authors: Zou Zijun , Wang Qin , Zhou Minggen , Li Weichao , Zheng Yikai , Li Fanyi , Zheng Shengcai , He Zhijie
Published: August 2020

Background

Sepsis induces pulmonary P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) expression and P2X7R‐knockout reduced lung inflammation in mice. The present study investigated the expression of circular RNA (circRNA) and mRNA in sepsis‐induced acute lung injury (ALI) treated with a P2X7R antagonist.

Methods

Sepsis was induced by tracheal administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the mice were then divided into two groups: without [sepsis + dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)] or with P2X7R antagonist treatment (sepsis + P2X7A). Sham mice were administrated sterile normal saline. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, pathological changes, cell apoptosis and P2X7R expression in lung were assessed, followed by RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) and bioinformatics analyses. A quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) was used to validate circRNAs and mRNAs.

Results

Compared to the sham group, LPS‐induced sepsis produced obvious pathological changes in lung tissue, as well as increased apoptotic lung cells, serum TNF‐α and IL‐1β levels, and P2X7R expression; P2X7R antagonism significantly ameliorated these changes. RNA‐seq identified many dysregulated circRNAs and mRNAs during sepsis, whereas this changed with P2X7R antagonism. RT‐qPCR confirmed that Mus musculus (mmu)_circ_0001679, mmu_circ_0001212, phospholamban (Pln), cadherin‐2 (Cdh2) and nitrogen permease regulator 3‐like (Nprl3) expression were significantly increased in the sepsis + DMSO group compared to that in the sham group but were decreased in the sepsis + P2X7A group compared to that in the sepsis + DMSO group. The circRNA–microRNA–mRNA coexpression network indicated that mmu_circ_0001679 may regulate Nprl3 and that mmu_circ_0001212 may similarly regulate Pln, Cdh2 and Nprl3 as a competing endogenous RNA.

Conclusions

P2X7R antagonism attenuates sepsis‐induced ALI by inhibiting dysregulated expression of circRNA (circ_0001679, circ_0001212) and mRNA (Pln, Cdh2 and Nprl3).
Predominance of ON1 and BA9 genotypes of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Bulgaria, 2016‐2018
Authors: Korsun Neli , Angelova Svetla , Trifonova Ivelina , Voleva Silvia , Grigorova Iliana , Tzotcheva Iren , Mileva Sirma , Alexiev Ivaylo , Perenovska Penka
Published: August 2020

The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in Bulgaria, to characterize the genetic diversity of the RSV strains, and to perform amino acid sequence analysis of the RSV G protein. Clinical, epidemiological data and nasopharyngeal swabs were prospectively collected from children aged less than 5 years presenting with acute respiratory infections from October 2016 to September 2018. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction for 12 respiratory viruses, and sequencing, phylogenetic, and amino acid analyses of the RSV G gene/protein were performed. Of the 875 children examined, 645 (73.7%) were positive for at least one viral respiratory pathogen. RSV was the most commonly detected virus (26.2%), followed by rhinoviruses (15%), influenza A (H3N2) (9.7%), adenoviruses (9%), bocaviruses (7.2%), human metapneumovirus (6.1%), parainfluenza viruses 1/2/3 (5.8%), influenza type B (5.5%), and A(H1N1)pdm09 (3.4%). The detection rate for RSV varied across two winter seasons (36.7% vs 20.3%). RSV‐B cases outnumbered those of the RSV‐A throughout the study period. RSV was the most common virus detected in patients with bronchiolitis (45.1%) and pneumonia (24%). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that all the sequenced RSV‐A strains belonged to the ON1 genotype and the RSV‐B strains were classified as BA9 genotype. Amino acid substitutions at 15 and 22 positions of the HVR‐2 were identified compared with the ON1 and BA prototype strains, respectively. This study revealed the leading role of RSV as a causative agent of serious respiratory illnesses in early childhood, year‐on‐year fluctuations in RSV incidence, the dominance of RSV‐B, and relatively low genetic diversity in the circulating RSV strains.
Microcurrent electrotherapy improves palatal wound healing: Randomized clinical trial
Authors: Miguel Manuela Maria Viana , Mathias‐Santamaria Ingrid Fernandes , Rossato Amanda , Ferraz Laís Fernanda Ferreira , Figueiredo‐Neto Antônio Martins , de Marco Andrea Carvalho , Casarin Renato Corrêa Viana , Wallet Shannon Margaret , Tatakis Dimitris N. , Mathias Marcio Antonio , Santamaria Mauro Pedrine
Published: August 2020

Background

This study was conducted to assess the clinical, immunological, and patient‐centered outcomes of microcurrent electrotherapy on palatal wound healing.

Methods

This was a parallel, double‐masked randomized clinical trial, in which 53 patients with ridge preservation indications were selected and randomly assigned to one of two groups. In the control (sham) group (n = 27), palatal wounds, after free gingival grafts (FGG) harvest, received sham application of electrotherapy. In the test (electrotherapy treatment [EE]) group (n = 26), palatal wounds, after FGG harvest, received application of microcurrent electrotherapy protocol. Clinical parameters, patient‐centered outcomes, and inflammatory markers were evaluated, up to 90 days postoperatively.

Results

The EE group achieved earlier wound closure (P <0.001) and epithelialization (P <0.05; P = 0.03) at 7 and 14 days after harvest when compared with the sham group. Painful symptomatology was reported less frequently in the EE group than in the sham group at 3‐day follow‐up (P = 0.008). Likewise, an improvement in Oral Health Impact Profile was reported 2 days after the procedure by the EE group (P = 0.04). In addition, favorable modulation of inflammatory wound healing markers occurred when electrotherapy was applied.

Conclusion

Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that the use of a low‐intensity electrotherapy protocol may accelerate palatal wound healing and decrease patient discomfort after FGG harvest.
Toward standardization of Raman spectroscopy: Accurate wavenumber and intensity calibration using rotational Raman spectra of H2, HD, D2, and vibration–rotation spectrum of O2
Authors: Raj Ankit , Kato Chihiro , Witek Henryk A. , Hamaguchi Hiro‐o
Published: August 2020

Wavenumber and intensity calibration of a Raman spectrometer is performed with the use of pure rotational Raman bands (Δν = 0, ΔJ = ± 2) of H2, HD, D2, and vibration–rotation Raman bands (Δν = 1, ΔJ = ± 2) of O2 as primary standards. Wavenumber calibration is based on reference transition wavenumbers available from accurate theoretical and experimental results. Intensity calibration is based on ratios of accurate theoretical Raman intensities for transitions from common rotational states to eliminate temperature effects. Polarization dependence is corrected to ensure that all of these bands have the correct depolarization ratio, ρ = 0.75. The calibrated Raman spectrometer is used to measure standard Raman spectra of carbon tetrachloride, benzene, cyclohexane, toluene, and benzonitrile, for which the relative Raman intensities and depolarization ratios are determined with carefully estimated uncertainties. Vibrational frequencies of indene used for routine wavenumber calibration are updated.
Mechanical creep of tea leaves
Authors: Lee Yao‐Tsung , Jhao Yi‐Sheng , Chiang Donyao , Lee Sanboh
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Tea processing involves fermentation, withering, steaming or pan‐firing, rolling, baking, and drying. Some of these steps are performed at a high temperatures. At such temperatures the creep of the tea leaves plays an important role in the quality of tea. In materials science, creep is the tendency of a tea leaf to move slowly or defom permanently under a constant load. There has been much research on the mechanical properties of the outmost cuticular layer of leaves but there are few reports addressing the mechanical properties of whole leaves.

RESULTS

We cut tea leaf into specimen of dog‐bone shape and measure the time‐dependent creep deformation using a dynamic mechnical analyzer. Three different tea leaves grown in Taiwan were examined. The nonlinear Burgers model is proposed to describe the creep deformation of the tea leaves.

CONCLUSIONS

The creep of the tea leaves consists of primary and steady states, and the creep deformation is accurately described by the Kelvin representation of the nonlinear Burgers model. The viscosities in the primary stages satisfied the Arrhenius equation, and the activation energies were determined. The stress exponents for the creep of the tea leaves were less than unity. The Maxwell representation of the Burgers model is mathematically equivalent to the Kelvin representation of the Burgers model and can also be used to explain the creep of tea leaves. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of fish oil and microencapsulated fish oil additives on water binding and the rheological properties of poultry sausage batters
Authors: Kawecki Krzysztof , Rezler Ryszard , Baranowska Hanna M , Stangierski Jerzy
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The composition of meat batters can be modified by the addition of fish oil or microencapsulation of oil. Such modifications affect the water binding and the rheological properties of the resulting systems. There is little information available on the behaviour of water molecules in model meat batter systems with microcapsules. The main goal of the study was to assess the degree of water binding by the meat batter system and to carry out a rheological analysis during heating and cooling.

RESULTS

The sample with the microcapsules was characterized by a slightly elevated level of total protein. The encapsulated oil additive reduced the pH and water activity value in the meat batter, compared with the control sample. There was one relaxation time T1 and two time components T2 in the control batter and the batter containing encapsulated oil. The sample with the oil additive was characterized by two components of relaxation time T1 and three components of relaxation time T2. There was an inverse correlation between the dynamic viscosity of the batters and the spin–spin relaxation times T21 and T22. The temperature courses of the modulus of elasticity in all the systems exhibited three areas of change (20–43 °C, 43–60 °C, and >60 °C). The highest dynamics of change in the modulus of elasticity was observed for the initial and final temperature range (60–85 °C).

CONCLUSIONS

The samples with the oil and microcapsule additives exhibited higher elastic energy accumulation capacity and dynamic viscosity than the control batter within the whole heating range. The fish oil microcapsules improved the mechanical properties of poultry sausage batters and their water‐binding properties. This may increase the juiciness and microbiological stability of the finished products. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐charged aerosol detection/UV method for the quantitation of linear polyethylenimines in oligonucleotide polyplexes
Authors: Socia Adam , Liu Yong , Zhao Yuejie , Abend Andreas , Wuelfing W. Peter
Published: August 2020

Linear polyethylenimines are polycationic excipients that have found many pharmaceutical applications, including as a delivery vehicle for gene therapy through formation of polyplexes with oligonucleotides. Accurate quantitation of linear polyethylenimines in both starting solution and formulation containing oligonucleotide/polyethylenimine polyplexes is critical. Existing methods using spectroscopy, matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry time‐of‐flight, or nuclear magnetic resonance are either complex or suffer from low selectivity. Here, the development and performance of a simple analytical method is described whereby linear polyethylenimines are resolved by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography and quantified using either a charged aerosol detector or an ultraviolet detector. For formulated oligonucleotide/polyethylenimine polyplexes, sample preparation through decomplexation/digestion by trifluoroacetic acid was necessary to eliminate separation interference. The method can be used not only to support formulation development but also to monitor the synthesis/purification and characterization of linear polyethylenimines.
Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of the platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in melanoma: A meta‐analysis involving 2099 patients
Authors: Han Sai‐Nan , Feng Shi‐Jun , Liu Yuan
Published: August 2020

To investigate the prognostic role of the platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in melanoma through a meta‐analytical method. The literature was searched using the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus electronic platforms. Hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Begg's test and Egger's test were used to assess potential publication bias. A total of eight retrospective cohort studies involving 2099 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. No significant association between the PLR and OS was found (HR = 1.39; 95% CI = 0.97‐1.99;P= .075). There was also a nonsignificant correlation between the PLR and PFS (HR = 1.49; 95% CI = 0.98‐2.27;P= .065). In addition, there was no significant association between the PLR and sex (odds ratio [OR] = 1.14; 95% CI = 0.23‐5.66;P= .869) or age (OR = 0.81; 95% CI = 0.41‐1.59;P= .539). No significant publication bias was found in this meta‐analysis. The pooled analysis suggests that the PLR may not be a significant prognostic marker in patients with melanoma.
Does Nasal Secretion Decrease in Sjögren Syndrome and Does This Affect Nasal Function?
Authors: Eren Erdem , Balcı Koray , Gerçik Önay , Kabadayı Gökhan , Akar Servet
Published: August 2020

Objective

Sjögren syndrome is a systemic inflammatory disease causing gland dysfunction. Few (and contradictory) reports on the mucosal effects of Sjögren syndrome have appeared. Here, we objectively demonstrate nasal dryness in Sjögren syndrome patients and explore the effect of such dryness on olfaction.

Methods

Thirty‐four consecutive patients with primary Sjögren syndrome were enrolled in this cross‐sectional study. The control group consisted of 21 age‐ and sex‐matched volunteers. Medical histories and nasal findings were recorded. The Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center test was used to evaluate olfactory function. All subjects underwent mucucociliary clearance analysis (the saccharin test and peak nasal inspiratory flowmetry). The intranasal Schirmer test was used to evaluate the nasal cavity.

Results

The nasal Schirmer test scores were 8.4 mm (right) and 8 mm (left) (P = .041, P = .016, respectively, compared to controls). The Chi‐squared test revealed significant differences (compared to controls) in nasal dryness (P = .001), postnasal drip (P = .04), and smell (a decrease) (P = .005). Neither olfactory function nor mucociliary clearance differed between the groups. We noted a trend toward a positive correlation between olfactory function and the nasal Schirmer score but statistical significance was not attained.

Conclusion

The intranasal Schirmer test objectively showed that Sjögren syndrome patients exhibited nasal cavity dryness; this is useful in terms of follow‐up. This did not affect olfactory function.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:370–373, 2021
Monitoring desertification in semiarid Brazil: Using the Desertification Degree Index (DDI)
Authors: Vendruscolo Jhony , Perez Marin Aldrin M. , dos Santos Felix Evaldo , Ferreira Karoline R. , Cavalheiro Wanderson C. S. , Fernandes Izaias M.
Published: August 2020

Desertification is a phenomenon that takes place in the arid, semiarid and dry subhumid areas of the Planet. Although its causes and consequences are well known, data and robust information are often insufficient to provide indicators that allow desertification effects to be measured precisely and efficiently. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to introduce a methodology for the drafting of a monitoring index for desertification, with indicators of vegetal coverage, taking the semiarid area of Paraiba State, Brazil, as the test example. For this purpose, we analyzed conserved and desertified areas (22 pairs), in which we evaluated the following parameters: woody species richness, woody plant density, canopy height, mean basal circumference, mean circumference at breast height and total absolute dominance. First, we selected the indicators, calculated the areas of coverage and measured the reference values. Subsequently, we obtained masses for the indicators, and developed and tested the desertification degree index (DDI). The DDI showed 99% accuracy and 95% efficiency, respectively, and was able to select indicators and evaluate the level of desertification in the test areas. The methodology is simple, inexpensive and replicable in other regions of the world as a means of monitoring and planning strategies to counter desertification.
COVID‐19: When dust mites and lockdown create the perfect storm
Authors: Gelardi Matteo , Trecca Eleonora M. C. , Fortunato Francesca , Iannuzzi Lucia , Marano Pier Gerardo , Quaranta Nicola A. A. , Cassano Michele
Published: August 2020

The aim of the present study was to understand if the course of the disease of patients suffering from dust mite allergy could have been negatively affected by the COVID‐19 restrictions, which have been certainly important to fight the pandemic, but forced patients to stay at home for a long time.
Utility of Mac‐2 Binding Protein Glycosylation Isomer to Evaluate Graft Status After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kimura Yusuke , Taura Kojiro , Hai Nam Nguyen , Uemoto Yusuke , Yoshino Kenji , Ikeno Yoshinobu , Okuda Yukihiro , Nishio Takahiro , Yamamoto Gen , Tanabe Kazutaka , Koyama Yukinori , Anazawa Takayuki , Fukumitsu Ken , Ito Takashi , Yagi Shintaro , Kamo Naoko , Seo Satoru , Iwaisako Keiko , Hata Koichiro , Imai Takumi , Uemoto Shinji
Published: August 2020

Mac‐2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) is a novel liver fibrosis biomarker, but there are few studies on M2BPGi in liver transplantation (LT) recipients. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of M2BPGi measurement in LT recipients. We collected the clinicopathological data of 233 patients who underwent a liver biopsy at Kyoto University Hospital after LT between August 2015 and June 2019. The median values of M2BPGi in patients with METAVIR fibrosis stages F0, F1, F2, and ≥F3 were 0.61, 0.76, 1.16, and 1.47, respectively, whereas those in patients with METAVIR necroinflammatory indexes A0, A1, and ≥A2 were 0.53, 1.145, and 2.24, respectively. Spearman rank correlation test suggested that the necroinflammatory index had a stronger correlation to the M2BPGi value than the fibrosis stage. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of M2BPGi to predict ≥A1 was 0.75, which was significantly higher than that of any other liver fibrosis and inflammation marker. Patients with a rejection activity index (RAI) of ≥3 had a higher M2BPGi value than those with RAI ≤ 2 (P = 0.001). Patients with hepatitis C virus viremia had a higher M2BPGi value than sustained virological responders or those with other etiologies. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that M2BPGi values are more strongly influenced by necroinflammatory activity and revealed M2BPGi, which has been thought to be a so‐called fibrosis marker, as a disease activity marker in transplant recipients. M2BPGi measurement may be useful to detect early stage liver inflammation that cannot be detected by routine blood examination of LT recipients.
Highly Flexible Superhydrophobic Poly(Urethane Acrylate) Film for Applications Requiring High Optical Transparency
Authors: Hou Tian‐Feng , Shanmugasundaram Arunkumar , Kim Dong‐Su , Lee Dong‐Weon
Published: August 2020

The present work elucidates the successful attempts toward the development of a highly transparent, flexible, and superhydrophobic (HTFS) film. The HTFS film is obtained by introducing graphene oxide (GO) into micropillar‐patterned poly(urethane acrylate) (PUA), followed by siloxane functionalization via chemical vapor deposition. The fabricated SPG2 film (siloxane‐functionalized PUA incorporated with 0.1 wt% of GO) exhibits a water advancing contact angle, water receding contact angle, and sliding angle of 155.5 ± 0.3°, 143.4 ± 0.6°, and 9 ± 0.4°, respectively. The SPG2 film also exhibits an optical transmittance of ≈84% at 550 nm. Mechanical wearable tests demonstrate no significant degradation in the self‐cleaning properties and optical transparency. The fabricated HTFS film (SPG2) is used as a protective layer for a solar module. This solar module shows improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) compared to that of a bare solar module owing to the high optical transparency and light‐trapping effect of the fabricated film that reduce the light reflectance. Furthermore, the SPG2‐protected solar cell demonstrates superior PCE under different surface contamination conditions comparing to other cells. The fabricated micropatterned SPG2 film can be used for various outdoor applications that require high optical transparency, flexibility, and superior self‐cleaning performance.
Pentaplex real‐time PCR for differential detection of Yersinia pestis and Y. pseudotuberculosis and application for testing fleas collected during plague epizootics
Authors: Bai Ying , Motin Vladimir , Enscore Russell E. , Osikowicz Lynn , Rosales Rizzo Maria , Hojgaard Andrias , Kosoy Michael , Eisen Rebecca J.
Published: August 2020

Upon acquiring two unique plasmids (pMT1 and pPCP1) and genome rearrangement during the evolution from Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, the plague causative agent Y. pestis is closely related to Y. pseudotuberculosis genetically but became highly virulent. We developed a pentaplex real‐time PCR assay that not only detects both Yersinia species but also differentiates Y. pestis strains regarding their plasmid profiles. The five targets used were Y. pestis‐specific ypo2088, caf1, and pst located on the chromosome, plasmids pMT1 and pPCP1, respectively; Y. pseudotuberculosis‐specific chromosomal gene opgG; and 18S ribosomal RNA gene as an internal control for flea DNA. All targets showed 100% specificity and high sensitivity with limits of detection ranging from 1 fg to 100 fg, with Y. pestis‐specific pst as the most sensitive target. Using the assay, Y. pestis strains were differentiated 100% by their known plasmid profiles. Testing Y. pestis and Y. pseudotuberculosis‐spiked flea DNA showed there is no interference from flea DNA on the amplification of targeted genes. Finally, we applied the assay for testing 102 fleas collected from prairie dog burrows where prairie dog die‐off was reported months before flea collection. All flea DNA was amplified by 18S rRNA; no Y. pseudotuberculosis was detected; one flea was positive for all Y. pestis‐specific targets, confirming local Y. pestis transmission. Our results indicated the assay is sensitive and specific for the detection and differentiation of Y. pestis and Y. pseudotuberculosis. The assay can be used in field investigations for the rapid identification of the plague causative agent.
Characterization of tissue‐specific pre‐log Bayesian CT reconstruction by texture–dose relationship
Authors: Gao Yongfeng , Liang Zhengrong , Xing Yuxiang , Zhang Hao , Pomeroy Marc , Lu Siming , Ma Jianhua , Lu Hongbing , Moore William
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Tissue textures have been recognized as biomarkers for various clinical tasks. In computed tomography (CT) image reconstruction, it is important but challenging to preserve the texture when lowering x‐ray exposure from full‐ toward low‐/ultra‐low dose level. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the texture–dose relationship within one tissue‐specific pre‐log Bayesian CT reconstruction algorithm.

Methods

To enhance the texture in ultra‐low dose CT (ULdCT) reconstruction, this paper presents a Bayesian type algorithm. A shifted Poisson model is adapted to describe the statistical properties of pre‐log data, and a tissue‐specific Markov random field prior (MRFt) is used to incorporate tissue texture from previous full‐dose CT, thus called SP‐MRFt algorithm. Utilizing the SP‐MRFt algorithm, we investigated tissue texture degradation as a function of x‐ray dose levels from full dose (100 mAs/120 kVp) to ultralow dose (1 mAs/120 kVp) by using quantitative texture‐based evaluation metrics.

Results

Experimental results show the SP‐MRFt algorithm outperforms conventional filtered back projection (FBP) and post‐log domain penalized weighted least square MRFt (PWLS‐MRFt) in terms of noise suppression and texture preservation. Comparable results are also obtained with shifted Poisson model with 7 × 7 Huber MRF weights (SP‐Huber7). The investigation on texture–dose relationship shows that the quantified texture measures drop monotonically as dose level decreases, and interestingly a turning point is observed on the texture–dose response curve.

Conclusions

This important observation implies that there exists a minimum dose level, at which a given CT scanner (hardware configuration and image reconstruction software) can achieve without compromising clinical tasks. Moreover, the experiment results show that the variance of electronic noise has higher impact than the mean to the texture–dose relationship.