bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EE‐hHHSS: Energy‐efficient wireless sensor network with mobile sink strategy using hybrid Harris hawk‐salp swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Srinivas Madana , Amgoth Tarachand
Published: August 2020

Wireless sensor network (WSN) includes power‐efficient sensor nodes to convey information to the base station (BS). This network comprises a number of sensor nodes that perform sensing, processing, and wireless communication abilities to monitor a specified sensing field. Therefore, it is necessary to prolong WSN lifetime using energy efficient optimization methods, because the sensor nodes are operated by battery. Also, it is difficult to replace the battery of the nodes located in harsh environments. Thus, energy‐efficient routing is a crucial phenomenon in WSN. In this article, energy‐efficient WSN with mobile sink (MS) strategy is proposed using hybrid Harris hawk and salp swarm (Hybrid HH‐SS) optimization algorithm. In order to achieve energy efficiency, finding an optimal route for MS is a critical task. The MS discovers an optimal path to interconnect with the cluster heads (CHs) by adaptive ant colony optimization (AACO) algorithm. Hence, the proposed hybrid algorithm minimizes the energy consumption (EC), packet loss rate (PLR), and end‐to‐end (E2E) delay and enhances the lifetime of the network. The proposed work is implemented in JAVA platform, and simulation outcomes show that the proposed approach enhances the wireless sensor network performances. Simulation results show enhancement in energy efficiency in terms of network lifetime, packet delivery rate, average throughput, packet loss rate, energy efficiency, and end‐to‐end delay.
Cytological diagnosis of angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma: Report of a case and review of literature
Authors: Rani Deepa , Gupta Arsh , Gupta Atul , Rastogi Kanika
Published: August 2020

Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) is an unusual superficially located tumor primarily affecting children and young adults. It grows slowly and most often occurs on the extremities. There is a paucity of literature on the cytological findings of AFH owing to the rarity of the lesion and its superficial location which makes it easier to perform the biopsy. Here, we present a case of AFH in a 7‐year‐old girl who presented with a left upper arm swelling. The cytology of this tumor along with histopathologic correlation and review of literature is discussed.
Experimental and Theoretical Study on SO2 Tolerance of Pt Electrocatalysts: Role of Carbon Support
Authors: Prithi J. A. , Shanmugam Ramasamy , Rao G. Ranga , Rajalakshmi N.
Published: August 2020

Durability of fuel cell is still a major concern for successful progress and commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) technology. One of the factors affecting durability of PEMFC is the impurities present in atmospheric air that is fed at cathode which degrades the PEMFC performance. Conventionally used electrocatalyst, platinum (Pt) supported on carbon (C), is susceptible even to trace amounts of SO2 present in atmospheric air. The present study investigates the effect of SO2 and role of carbon support in platinum electrocatalysts at different weight ratios of carbon and platinum (20 wt% and 40 wt% Pt/C). Tolerance towards SO2 contaminations has been evaluated through electrochemical studies. The sulfur coverage percentage was found to be 57 % and 43 % for 20 wt% and 40 wt% Pt/C, respectively. However, the unsupported Pt black showed better tolerance with 31 % of sulfur coverage implying the susceptibility of carbon towards SO2 contamination. Density functional theory (DFT) studies proved the synergistic effect of SO2 adsorption and its dissolution mechanism on carbon supported Pt electrocatalysts.
A metamaterial‐inspired circularly polarized antenna for implantable applications
Authors: Goswami Siddhant , Karia Deepak C.
Published: August 2020

A novel microstrip‐fed metamaterial‐inspired antenna is proposed for implantable applications. The designed antenna operates in the Industrial, Scientific and Medical band at a frequency (2.4‐2.5) GHz. The implantable antenna comprises of two split ring resonators. The use of metamaterial not only dramatically reduces the size of the antenna, but also improves its gain and bandwidth. Different methods of size reduction with optimum gain and bandwidth are here discussed in detail. The implantable antenna is designed using FR4 substrate which provides better gain, miniature size (84% size reduction), good impedance matching, circular polarization with 3.41% of 3‐dB axial ratio bandwidth. Circularly polarized antennas are usually preferred as they reduce polarization mismatch loss. The antenna is 29 × 28 mm2 in size with 4.86 dB gain and 140 MHz impedance bandwidth. The design of phantom liquid, the computation of its pH value, and measurement of its permittivity are thoroughly reported. The permittivity of the liquid is found to increase with the pH value. The permittivity of phantom liquid has been validated with 85070E dielectric probe kit. A detailed description of different probes is provided. The measurement results are in good agreement with simulations. Finally, the design of phantom for implantable applications and techniques for size reduction of the same have been described. This reduced size will help to fit antenna in medical devices, providing greater ease for the body movement.
Information entropy theory for steam turbine system monitoring study
Authors: Gu Hui , Si Fengqi , Cui Yanfeng , Zhu Hongxia , Cui Xiaobo
Published: August 2020

A steam turbine is one of the components in a power plant. Considered as a strong coupling system, steam turbines may possess correlation information among the operation parameters. In this article, a correlation extraction method based on mutual information theory is proposed for performance monitoring. First, five functions between two variables including linear and nonlinear relationships are tested to validate the proposed method. In the first industrial case study, a sensor fault detection based on the governing stage pressure is conducted on the abnormal fluctuation mutual entropy values calculated by operation data. The results show the proposed method may effectively be used to detect sensor errors and locate the first error sample. Furthermore, uncertainty analysis on the heat rate is studied to sort the importance degree of the relative parameters. The mutual information entropy difference values are then calculated to quantify the sensitivity degree of the operation parameters to the heat rate index. The results in this case study are in accordance with the sequences by the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty Measurement (GUM) and Monte Carlo (MC) methods. In conclusion, mutual information entropy may hence be used as a new solution for turbine monitoring, combined with information theory.
Detection of terracettes in semi‐arid rangelands using Fourier‐based image analysis of very‐high‐resolution satellite imagery
Authors: Hellman Ian , Heinse Robert , Karl Jason W. , Corrao Mark
Published: August 2020

Terracettes are repeating step‐like microtopographic features roughly following the contours of hillslopes that are often associated with livestock tracks. These common features in many semi‐arid rangelands have been shown to alter soil moisture, slope stability, sediment transport, infiltration rates and coincident vegetation patterns. The spatial extent and distribution of terracettes is currently unknown and therefore their landscape‐scale hydrological influence is absent in modelling and land management decision making. When viewed in uncalibrated very‐high‐resolution satellite imagery, terracettes appear as repetitious parallel lines within a specific frequency range. Here we used the two‐dimensional discrete Fourier transform to identify terracettes at three test sites in the Inland Pacific Northwest, USA. We created an automated rule‐based classification of terracetted sites based on spatial frequency, orientation, slope angle and land‐use class. Results show a detection accuracy of 77% based on an optimized spatial frequencies search window between 0.3 and 0.7 m−1. Terracette orientation did not contribute significantly to detection accuracy because orientations varied ±50° from digital elevation model‐derived aspects. We found terracettes occurred predominantly on north‐facing slopes at our test sites, although this estimate may be exaggerated by the timing of image capture. We feel that the method developed in this paper provides a way forward to map terracettes at large scales and enable new insights into the functions of terracettes in the landscape. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental investigation of human tenability and sprinkler protection in hospital room fires
Authors: Hostikka Simo , Veikkanen Eetu , Hakkarainen Tuula , Kajolinna Tuula
Published: August 2020

The effectiveness of sprinklers in protecting hospital patients in the room of fire origin was investigated by 14 experiments with a residential‐grade sprinkler system, and by two free‐burns. The fire load was UL 1626 corner fire. Tenability conditions were evaluated for the UL 1626 corner fire using gas temperature and species concentration measurements, and by calculating the fractional effective dose (FED) and fractional irritant concentration (FIC) with the comprehensive model of Purser and a more simplified method of ISO 13571. In the sprinklered tests, the average FED at 15 minutes was 0.8 ± 1 with 95% confidence, when using the Purser's method, and 0.2 ± 0.2 with ISO 13571. The difference was mainly caused by the assumption in the Purser's method that all NOx gases behave like NO2. Ignoring the NO contributions decreased the Purser's FED values very close to those of ISO 13571. In nonsprinklered tests, the FED and FIC values indicated definite incapacitation and possibly death 3 minutes after ignition. The sprinklers effectively increase the possibility of surviving, but the toxic effects may still be dangerous. In hospital and health care environments, many of the exposed persons may have lower‐than‐average tolerance.
Africa: Taking fire safety forwards
Authors: Walls Richard S. , Cicione Antonio , Messerschmidt Birgitte , Almand Kathleen
Published: August 2020

The population of Africa has increased rapidly, with a population of 630 million in 1990 exploding to a population of 1.2 billion in 2016. Furthermore, across the continent, there is rapid urbanisation combined with a significant growth in mining, mineral processing, transportation, fuel storage, energy generation and industrial activities. This has resulted in the fire risk for the continent growing exponentially in the past decades, and it is the cause for serious concern that there are very few educational, research and regulatory bodies providing the necessary training and knowledge basis to keep the continent safe from fire. It is with this background that this paper seeks to provide: (a) a high‐level overview of Africa's recent growth and development, that is illustrated with (b) a number of recent disasters that present events that could become more commonplace if action is not taken which (c) is used to explain the growing fire risk on the continent, and leads to the proposal of (d) a high‐level roadmap for producing a continent that is more resilient to fire. International data from developed countries are used to demonstrate how the application of fire engineering standards and knowledge has improved fire safety and reduced losses in various developed countries, and Africa could potentially follow this trend, although there are significant challenges that must be faced.
Research on sensing characteristics of three human umami receptors via receptor‐based biosensor
Authors: Chen Weizhu , Huang Yulin , Jiang Shui , Chen Gaole , Liu Yuan
Published: August 2020

Currently, three proposed receptors, including heterodimer T1R1/T1R3, metabotropic glutamate receptor 4 (mGluR4) and metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1), are involved in mediating umami perception. The aim of this work was to study the sensing differences among three human umami receptors (T1R1, mGluR1 and mGluR4) without interference from other cellular signal pathways. The receptors were immobilized onto the precoated glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) to mimic cascade amplification system. The response currents towards monosodium glutamate (MSG) and disodium inosinate (IMP) were determined. The kinetic analyses showed that the allosteric constants of the interaction were as follows: KT1R1‐MSG = 7.183 × 10−12 mol/L, KmGluR1‐MSG = 1.659 × 10−14 mol/L, KmGluR4‐MSG = 7.610 × 10−15 mol/L, KT1R1‐IMP = 7.810 × 10−14 mol/L respectively. The results indicated that the sensing ability to MSG was as follows: mGluR4 > mGluR1 > T1R1. mGluRs might underly specific contribution to MSG recognition at lower concentration due to their specific structures and nerve connections. Summarily, this paper provided a novel establishment of receptor‐based biosensor, which would be useful for investigating mechanisms underlying umami signal transduction in vitro.
A novel CLTC‐FOSB gene fusion in pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma of bone
Authors: Bridge Julia A. , Sumegi Janos , Royce Thomas , Baker Michael , Linos Konstantinos
Published: August 2020

Pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma, an uncommon mesenchymal neoplasm composed of plump spindled and/or epithelioid endothelial cells, may present multicentrically and tends to locally recur but rarely metastasizes. Morphologic resemblance to epithelioid sarcoma and other spindle cell neoplasms may result in diagnostic confusion. Molecular characterization of pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma has revealed these neoplasms often harbor a rearrangement of the FOSB gene with SERPINE1 or ACTB as recurrent fusion gene partners. Herein, a case of a fibular pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma with minimal extension into the adjacent soft tissue arising in a 17 year‐old male is presented. The neoplasm exhibited sheets of epithelioid cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and variably eccentric nuclei. RNA sequencing revealed a novel CLTC‐FOSB fusion transcript that was subsequently confirmed by direct sequencing of reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction products demonstrating an in‐frame fusion between exon 17 of the clathrin heavy chain (CLTC) gene and exon 2 of the FOSB (FosB proto‐oncogene, AP‐1 transcription factor subunit) gene. CLTC‐FOSB fusion has not been described in a neoplasm before.
Catatonia in elderly psychiatric inpatients is not always associated with intense anxiety: Factor analysis and correlation with psychopathology
Authors: Cuevas‐Esteban Jorge , Iglesias‐González Maria , Serra‐Mestres Jordi , Butjosa Anna , Canal‐Rivero Manuel , Serrano‐Blanco Antoni , Baladon Luisa
Published: August 2020

Objective

Catatonic stupor has been linked to extreme fear. Whether the underlying phenomenology of every catatonic dimension is intense anxiety or fear remains unknown.

Methods

One hundred and six patients aged ≥64 years were assessed for catatonia and clinical variables during the first 24 hours of admission. Two‐sample t test were used to test for group differences. A principal component analysis was developed. Analysis of variance was performed to assess for differences in the diagnostic groups. Correlation coefficients were used to examine the association between catatonic dimensions and psychopathological variables.

Results

There were statistically significant differences between catatonic and non‐catatonic patients in the Hamilton and NPI scores. The three factor‐model accounted for 52.23% of the variance. Factor 1 loaded on items concerned with “excitement,” factor 2 on “inhibition” items, and factor 3 on “parakinetic” items. There was a significant effect for factor 1 (F [5.36] = 2.83, P = .02), and not significant for factor 2 and factor 3. Compared with patients with depression, patients with mania scored significantly higher on factor “excitement” (P < .05). Factor 2 showed a moderate correlation with Hamilton total score (r = .346, P = .031) and Hamilton psychic score (r = .380, P = .017).

Conclusions

Catatonic patients experienced more anxiety and hyperactivity. A three‐factor solution provided best fit for catatonic symptoms. Patients with mania scored highest on Excitement, patients with depression on Inhibition, and patients with schizophrenia on Parakinetic. The main finding in this study was a positive moderate correlation between the Hamilton psychic score and the Inhibition factor score, meaning that not every catatonic dimension is associated to intense anxiety.
Elderly care in the time of coronavirus: Perceptions and experiences of care home staff in Pakistan
Authors: Bilal Atif , Saeed Muhammad Ali , Yousafzai Taimur
Published: August 2020

Objective

The highly contagious and deadlycoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has caused significant disruption in the small care sector of Pakistan. This study accordingly explores the perceptions and experiences of staff providing direct caregiving services to the elderly residents at three care homes during the time of the coronavirus pandemic in Karachi, Pakistan.

Design

Using a qualitative approach, 27 digitally recorded, semi‐structured, face‐to‐face interviews were performed with current and former caregiving staff members. The data were analyzed through qualitative content analysis.

Results

Analysis highlights various kinds of challenges that were faced by the caregivers and their families during the pandemic. The main theme class identified from the data was “living in anxiety and fear.” The work‐related decisions made by caregivers at that time were mainly influenced by their familial demands and responsibilities.

Conclusion

Caregivers were at risk of catching the lethal virus through inhalation of or physical contact with infectious particles, but despite that most of them continued to render elderly care services. This study's findings could be used by government leaders and care home administrations when making coronavirus containment policies, designing economic relief packages, and formulating caregiving training programs in Pakistan or other countries in the world.
A Circular RNA, Cholangiocarcinoma‐Associated Circular RNA 1, Contributes to Cholangiocarcinoma Progression, Induces Angiogenesis, and Disrupts Vascular Endothelial Barriers
Authors: Xu Yi , Leng Kaiming , Yao Yue , Kang Pengcheng , Liao Guanqun , Han Yi , Shi Guangjun , Ji Daolin , Huang Peng , Zheng Wangyang , Li Zhenglong , Li Jinglin , Huang Lining , Yu Liang , Zhou Yongxu , Jiang Xingming , Wang Hao , Li Chunlong , Su Zhilei , Tai Sheng , Zhong Xiangyu , Wang Zhidong , Cui Yunfu
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in various malignancies. We aimed to clarify the functions and mechanisms of dysregulated circRNAs in the cells and EVs of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

Approach and Results

CircRNA microarray was used to identify circRNA expression profiles in CCA tissues and bile‐derived EVs (BEVs). CCA‐associated circRNA 1 (circ‐CCAC1) expression was measured by quantitative real‐time PCR. The clinical importance of circ‐CCAC1 was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curves, Fisher’s exact test, Kaplan–Meier plots, and Cox regression model. The functions of circ‐CCAC1 and exosomal circ‐CCAC1 were explored in CCA cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), respectively. Different animal models were used to verify the in vitro results. RNA sequencing, bioinformatics, RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pulldown, chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing, and luciferase reporter assays were used to determine the regulatory networks of circ‐CCAC1 in CCA cells and HUVECs. Circ‐CCAC1 levels were increased in cancerous bile‐resident EVs and tissues. The diagnostic and prognostic values of circ‐CCAC1 were identified in patients with CCA. For CCA cells, circ‐CCAC1 increased cell progression by sponging miR‐514a‐5p to up‐regulate Yin Yang 1 (YY1). Meanwhile, YY1 directly bound to the promoter of calcium modulating ligand to activate its transcription. Moreover, circ‐CCAC1 from CCA‐derived EVs was transferred to endothelial monolayer cells, disrupting endothelial barrier integrity and inducing angiogenesis. Mechanistically, circ‐CCAC1 increased cell leakiness by sequestering enhancer of zeste homolog 2 in the cytoplasm, thus elevating SH3 domain‐containing GRB2‐like protein 2 expression to reduce the levels of intercellular junction proteins. In vivo studies further showed that increased circ‐CCAC1 levels in circulating EVs and cells accelerated both CCA tumorigenesis and metastasis.

Conclusions

Circ‐CCAC1 plays a vital role in CCA tumorigenesis and metastasis and may be an important biomarker/therapeutic target for CCA.
Bidirectional Role of NLRP3 During Acute and Chronic Cholestatic Liver Injury
Authors: Frissen Mick , Liao Lijun , Schneider Kai Markus , Djudjaj Sonja , Haybaeck Johannes , Wree Alexander , Rolle‐Kampczyk Ulrike , von Bergen Martin , Latz Eicke , Boor Peter , Trautwein Christian
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims

Cholestatic liver injury leads to cell death and subsequent inflammation and fibrosis. As shown for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), the mechanisms and circuits between different cell death pathways leading to disease progression are incompletely defined. Common bile duct ligation (BDL) is a well‐established murine model to mimic cholestatic liver injury. Here, we hypothesized that pyroptotic cell death by the Nucleotide‐Binding Domain, Leucine‐Rich‐Containing Family, Pyrin Domain‐Containing‐3 (Nlrp3) inflammasome plays an essential role during human and murine cholestasis.

Approach and Results

NLRP3 activation was analyzed in humans with cholestatic liver injury. Wild‐type (WT) and Nlrp3−/−
mice were subjected to BDL for 2 or 28 days. Chronic cholestasis in humans and mice is associated with NLRP3 activation and correlates with disease activity. Acute BDL in Nlrp3‐deficient mice triggered increased inflammation as well as liver injury, associated with stronger apoptotic and necroptotic cell death. In contrast, NLRP3 deletion led to decreased liver injury and inflammation in chronic cholestasis. Moreover, bridging fibrosis was observed in WT, but not in NLRP3 knockout, mice 28 days after BDL. In contrast, lack of NLRP3 expression attenuated kidney injury and fibrosis after acute and chronic BDL. Importantly, administration of MCC950, an NLRP3 small molecule inhibitor, reduced BDL‐induced disease progression in WT mice.

Conclusions

NLRP3 activation correlates with disease activity in patients with PBC. NLRP3 has a differential role during acute and chronic cholestatic liver injury in contrast to kidney injury. Disease progression during chronic cholestasis can be targeted through small molecules and thus suggests a potential clinical benefit for humans, attenuating liver and kidney injury.
Functionally Diverse Inflammatory Responses in Peripheral and Liver Monocytes in Alcohol‐Associated Hepatitis
Authors: Kim Adam , Bellar Annette , McMullen Megan R. , Li Xiaoxia , Nagy Laura E.
Published: August 2020

Alcohol‐associated hepatitis (AH) is an acute inflammatory disease in which gut‐microbial byproducts enter circulation and peripheral immune cells infiltrate the liver, leading to nonresolving inflammation and injury. Single‐cell RNA sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from patients with AH and healthy controls paired with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge revealed how diverse monocyte responses are divided among individual cells and change in disease. After LPS challenge, one monocyte subtype expressed pro‐inflammatory genes in both disease and healthy controls, while another monocyte subtype was anti‐inflammatory in healthy controls but switched to pro‐inflammatory in AH. Numerous immune genes are clustered within genomic cassettes, including chemokines and C‐type lectin receptors (CTRs). CTRs sense byproducts of diverse microbial and host origin. Single‐cell data revealed correlated expression of genes within cassettes, thus further diversifying different monocyte responses to individual cells. Monocyte up‐regulation of CTRs in response to LPS caused hypersensitivity to diverse microbial and host‐derived byproducts, indicating a secondary immune surveillance pathway up‐regulated in a subset of cells by a closely associated genomic cassette. Finally, expression of CTR genes was higher in livers of patients with severe AH, but not other chronic liver diseases, implicating secondary immune surveillance in nonresolving inflammation in severe AH.
The evaluation of efficiency and value addition of IFRS endorsement towards earnings timeliness disclosure
Authors: Mohsin Muhammad , Nurunnabi Mohammad , Zhang Jijian , Sun Huaping , Iqbal Nadeem , Iram Robina , Abbas Qaiser
Published: August 2020

Measurement of accounting information under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) plays an important role in the determination of earnings timeliness information and investor's decision making. This study assessed the compulsory acceptance of IFRS adoption. The study also measures the efficiency of Pakistani banking sector. We employed data envelopment analysis, SVAR and regression methods to measure Pakistani banks efficiency. The results show that the mandatory adoption of IFRS has increased earnings timeliness of information in all banks. The assessment of cumulative effect on banks by incorporating single weighted index value (ET index) reveals that IFRS increased timely profit and loss realization of banks. Comparatively the bank‐wise estimation of earning timeliness indices shows that IFRS does not shows a significant impact on earnings timeliness of commercial and specialized banks. Finally, the evaluation of IFRS policy shocks shows that earnings timeliness and stock returns are positively responding to change in reporting policy. Furthermore, we anticipate policy change to overcome the gap between asymmetrical earnings exposure and value relevancy of investors decision.
Rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor in an ileal conduit detected by recurrent massive bleeding from the stoma
Authors: Noda Michio , Matsuzawa Yukimasa , Nishimatsu Hiroaki , Murayama Shinichiro , Kishi Hirohisa , Nakamura Masaki , Kume Haruki
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The development of secondary tumors is a well‐known late adverse event after urinary diversion. However, the frequency of secondary tumors after an ileal conduit is the lowest compared to other methods used for urinary diversion. We observed a rare case of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor in an ileal conduit detected by recurrent massive bleeding from the stoma.

Case presentation

An 87‐year‐old female was hospitalized at our hospital due to recurrent bleeding from a stoma 22 years after radical cystectomy. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography revealed a 5‐cm mass in her ileal conduit. She underwent a complete resection of the tumor, a histological examination of which revealed it to be a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. The condition of the patient has been good showing no recurrence or metastases 4 years after surgery.

Conclusion

We report a rare secondary tumor, a gastrointestinal stromal tumor, arising from an ileal conduit.
Estimating the Effect of Elagolix Treatment for Endometriosis on Postmenopausal Bone Outcomes: A Model Bridging Phase III Trials to an Older Real‐World Population
Authors: Kilpatrick Ryan D , Chiuve Stephanie E , Leslie William D , Wegrzyn Lani R , Gao Wei , Yang Hongbo , Soliman Ahmed M , Snabes Michael C , Koenigsberg Sarah , Zhong Jia , Xiang Cheryl , Watts Nelson B
Published: August 2020

Elagolix, a gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone antagonist, is used in premenopausal women with endometriosis. There is a risk of bone loss with elagolix, but the long‐term effects of BMD loss later in life cannot be directly assessed and has not been quantified. To address this gap in knowledge, this study indirectly estimated the impact of elagolix on postmenopausal fracture risk. BMD change in premenopausal women with endometriosis treated with elagolix was modeled from the phase III program data (elagolix group) and used to simulate treatment effects on (fracture risk assessment tool estimated) 10‐year risks of hip and major osteoporotic fracture in women ages 50 to 79 years from the 2005–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES; N = 2303). Change in the proportion of women reaching risk‐based antiosteoporotic treatment thresholds was also estimated. For elagolix versus NHANES, median 10‐year risk of major osteoporotic fracture was 4.73% versus 4.70% in women ages 50 to 59 years, 7.03% versus 6.97% in women ages 60 to 69 years, and 10.83% versus 10.68% in women ages 70 to 79 years. Median 10‐year risk of hip fracture in these same groups was 0.19% versus 0.18% for women ages 50 to 59 years, 0.51% versus 0.49% for women 60 to 69 years, and 2.22% versus 2.14% for women 70 to 79 years. The proportion of women reaching risk‐based antiosteoporotic treatment thresholds caused by elagolix 150 mg daily for 12 months was 0.36% higher at age 50 to 59 years, 0.23% at age 60 to 69 years, and 1.79% at age 70 to 79 years. The number needed to harm was 643 for one additional hip fracture and 454 for one additional major osteoporotic fracture. Results were similar for elagolix 200 mg twice a day for 3 months. In the modeled scenarios, elagolix had minimal impact on long‐term risk of fracture and reaching risk‐based treatment thresholds. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Alkaline phosphatase dual‐binding sites for collagen dictate cell migration and microvessel assembly in vitro
Authors: Guerreiro Susana G. , Unger Ronald E. , Cerqueira Nuno M. F. S. A. , Sartoris Anne , Martins Maria J. , Barbosa Mário A. , Soares Raquel , Granja Pedro L. , Kirkpatrick Charles J.
Published: August 2020

Interactions between cell types, growth factors, and extracellular matrix components involved in angiogenesis are crucial for new vessel formation leading to tissue regeneration. This study investigated whether cocultures of fibroblasts and endothelial cells (ECs; from macro‐ or microvasculature) play a role in the formation of microvessel‐like structures by ECs, as well as modulate fibroblast differentiation and growth factors production (vascular endothelial cell growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, active transforming growth factor‐β1, and interleukin‐8), which are important for vessel sprouting and maturation. Data obtained revealed that in vitro coculture systems of fibroblasts and human ECs stimulate collagen synthesis and growth factors production by fibroblasts that ultimately affect the formation and distribution of microvessel‐like structures in cell cultures. In this study, areas with activated fibroblasts and high alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were also observed in cocultures. Molecular docking assays revealed that ALP has two binding positions for collagen, suggesting its impact in collagen proteins’ aggregation, cell migration, and microvessel assembly. These findings indicate that bioinformatics and coculture systems are complementary tools for investigating the participation of proteins, like collagen and ALP in angiogenesis.
Polarizable continuum models provide an effective electrostatic embedding model for fragment‐based chemical shift prediction in challenging systems
Authors: Unzueta Pablo A. , Beran Gregory J. O.
Published: August 2020

Ab initio nuclear magnetic resonance chemical shift prediction provides an important tool for interpreting and assigning experimental spectra, but it becomes computationally prohibitive in large systems. The computational costs can be reduced considerably by fragmentation of the large system into a series of contributions from many smaller subsystems. However, the presence of charged functional groups and the need to partition the system across covalent bonds create complications in biomolecules that typically require the use of large fragments and careful descriptions of the electrostatic environment. The present work shows how a model that combines chemical shielding contributions from non‐overlapping monomer and dimer fragments embedded in a polarizable continuum model provides a simple, easy‐to‐implement, and computationally inexpensive approach for predicting chemical shifts in complex systems. The model's performance proves rather insensitive to the continuum dielectric constant, making the selection of the optimal embedding dielectric less critical. The PCM‐embedded fragment model is demonstrated to perform well across systems ranging from molecular crystals to proteins.
Light‐emitting diode irradiation induces AKT/mTOR‐mediated apoptosis in human pancreatic cancer cells and xenograft mouse model
Authors: Kim Young Mi , Ko Sung‐Hwa , Shin Yong‐Il , Kim Yeonye , Kim Taehyung , Jung Jaehoon , Lee Sang‐Yull , Kim Nam Gyun , Park Kyoung‐Jun , Ryu Ji Hyeon
Published: August 2020

The beneficial effects of light‐emitting diode (LED) irradiation have been reported in various pathologies, including cancer. However, its effect in pancreatic cancer cells remains unclear. Herein, we demonstrated that blue LED of 460 nm regulated pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis by suppressing the expression of apoptosis‐related factors, such as mutant p53 and B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2), and decreasing the expression of RAC‐β serine/threonine kinase 2 (AKT2), the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Blue LED irradiation also increased the levels of cleaved poly‐(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) and caspase‐3 in pancreatic cancer cells, while it suppressed AKT2 expression and inhibited tumor growth in xenograft tumor tissues. In conclusion, blue LED irradiation suppressed pancreatic cancer cell and tumor growth by regulating AKT/mTOR signaling. Our findings indicated that blue LEDs could be used as a nonpharmacological treatment for pancreatic cancer.
Invasive cardiac lipoma diagnosis based on echocardiography: Case report and literature review
Authors: Bai Ruocen , Zhang Yanfen , Wang Hefang , Yang Jun , Sun Dandan
Published: August 2020

Echocardiography is first‐line examination of cardiac tumors. We report the case of a 25‐year‐old woman with a right atrial transmural invasive lipoma, and we review 58 published reports of primary cardiac invasive lipomas detected by echocardiography. We summarize the ultrasonographic characteristics and main sites of development, and examine the “invagination hypothesis”. Echocardiography appears valuable for early detection, intraoperative monitoring, and postoperative follow‐up of invasive cardiac lipomas.
Early intra‐abdominal hypertension: A reliable bedside prognostic marker for severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Kurdia Kailash C , Irrinki Santhosh , Chala Arun V , Bhalla Ashish , Kochhar Rakesh , Yadav Thakur D
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is commonly associated with intra‐abdominal hypertension (IAH). This acute increase of intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) may be attributed to early organ dysfunction, leading to an increased morbidity and mortality. To assess the incidence of raised IAH and its correlation with other prognostic indicators and various outcomes in SAP.

Methods and Results

This was a prospective observational study in patients of SAP between July 2009 and December 2010. All patients of SAP who were admitted to the hospital within 2 weeks of onset of pain were included in the study. A total of 35 patients with SAP were included in the study. Among these, 25 (71.4%) were males. All our patients had raised IAP; however, IAH was present in 51.4% (18/35). Patients with IAH were found to have a higher APACHE II score (88.9vs5.9%;P < 0.001), infectious complications (72.2vs5.9%;P < 0.001), circulatory failure (88.9vs0%;P < 0.001), and respiratory failure (100vs41.2%;P < 0.001). All the eight (22.8%) patients who succumbed to sepsis had IAH. Patients with IAH were found to have a significantly longer intensive care unit (ICU) stay (17.72vs12.29 days) and in‐hospital stay (24.89vs12.29 days).

Conclusion

IAH is a good negative prognostic marker in SAP, seen in up to 51.4%. IAH was found to have a significant negative impact on the outcome in terms of increased mortality, morbidity, in‐hospital stay, and ICU stay among the patients of SAP.
Biginelli‐type reaction: Efficient synthesis of 5‐unsubstituted 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐ones and thiones fromgem‐dibromomethylarenes
Authors: Kambappa Vinaya , Ganganahalli Kotturappa Chandrashekara , Sheshachar Manjunath Raghavendra , Doddakunche Shivaramu Prasanna
Published: August 2020

In the present study, we are reporting a simple and efficient method for the one‐pot synthesis of the biologically important heterocyclic molecules 5‐unsubstituted 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐ones and thiones usinggem‐dibromomethylarenes, oxalacetic acid, and urea or thiourea.Gem‐dibromomethylarenes are used as aldehyde equivalent for the efficient synthesis of 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐ones/thiones. This reaction offers advantages for the synthesis of these compounds, including ready availability of the starting materials, experimental simplicity and in good yields. Besides, the synthesized molecules are interesting for their biological and pharmacological actions.
Design and pharmacophoric identification of flavonoid scaffold‐based aromatase inhibitors
Authors: Banjare Laxmi , Verma Sant Kumar , Jain Akhlesh Kumar , Thareja Suresh
Published: August 2020

Aromatase is a crucial enzyme for the catalysis of aromatization reaction at the last and rate‐limiting step involved in the conversion of androgenic substrates to an estrogenic substrate. A hormone‐dependent breast cancer in postmenopausal woman can be cured by inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis by the help of aromatase inhibitors (AIs). The mode of interactions of flavonones with the active site of aromatase has been studied in search of potent and selective AIs as a substitute of the natural steroidal ligand. Structure‐based computational approach namely, molecular docking simulations were performed to investigate the structural features of the docked complex of aromatase and flavonoid ligands. A nonsteroidal flavonoid pharmacophore showing electrostatic and steric features for selective binding within the main pocket of the catalytic active site of aromatase has been identified as an outcome of the study. The binding affinity of quercetin and isoflavone were predicted within aromatase. Isoflavone was used as a negative control to compare its binding affinities with the selected dataset. The predicted binding affinity of negative control isoflavone was in accordance with its in vitro AI efficacy. Isoflavone showed poor binding affinity and ranked last in terms of MolDock score (−86.309 kcal/molÅ) compared to dataset molecules. The generated pharmacophoric information will be helpful for the synthetic chemist to design and synthesize selective AIs with comparable binding affinity to the natural steroidal ligand.
Elucidations on the structures of some putative flavonoids identified in postharvest withered grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) by quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: De Rosso Mirko , Panighel Annarita , Dalla Vedova Antonio , Flamini Riccardo
Published: August 2020

Grape dehydration is an oenological process used for production of high‐quality reinforced and sweet wines. High‐resolution mass spectrometry (ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight [UHPLC/QTOF]) was used to deepen the characterization of some flavonoids previously proposed in Corvina and Raboso Piave withered grapes. By performing a targeted data analysis workflow and orthogonal identification approaches (tandem mass spectrometry [MS/MS]), in silico fragmentation, and calculation of putative retention time), elucidation on the structures of six compounds previously proposed was achieved (taxifolin‐pentoside, two tetrahydroxyflavanone‐hexoside derivatives, a tetrahydroxy‐dimethoxyflavanone‐hexoside derivative, a pentahydroxyflavone, and peonidin‐O‐pentoside); and the structures of four putative new grape flavonoids were characterized (dihydromyricetin‐O‐hexoside, taxifolin‐di‐O‐hexoside, isorhamnetin, and a pinoquercetin isomer). Findings enlarge the panorama of flavonoids in grape and of their possible biosynthetic pathways.
Placental SARS‐CoV‐2 in a pregnant woman with mild COVID‐19 disease
Authors: Hsu Albert L. , Guan Minhui , Johannesen Eric , Stephens Amanda J. , Khaleel Nabila , Kagan Nikki , Tuhlei Breanna C. , Wan Xiu‐Feng
Published: August 2020

The full impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) on pregnancy remains uncharacterized. Current literature suggests minimal maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity and mortality. COVID‐19 manifestations appear similar between pregnant and nonpregnant women. We present a case of placental severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) virus in a woman with mild COVID‐19 disease, then review the literature. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect SARS‐CoV‐2. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed with specific monoclonal antibodies to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen or to identify trophoblasts. A 29‐year‐old multigravida presented at 40‐4/7 weeks for labor induction. With myalgias 2 days prior, she tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2. We demonstrate maternal vascular malperfusion, with no fetal vascular malperfusion, as well as SARS‐CoV‐2 virus in chorionic villi endothelial cells, and also rarely in trophoblasts. To our knowledge, this is the first report of placental SARS‐CoV‐2 despite mild COVID‐19 disease (no symptoms of COVID‐19 aside from myalgias); patient had no fever, cough, or shortness of breath, but only myalgias and sick contacts. Despite her mild COVID‐19 disease in pregnancy, we demonstrate placental vasculopathy and presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 virus across the placenta. Evidence of placental COVID‐19 raises concern for placental vasculopathy (potentially leading to fetal growth restriction and other pregnancy complications) and possible vertical transmission—especially for pregnant women who may be exposed to COVID‐19 in early pregnancy. This raises important questions of whether future pregnancy guidance should include stricter pandemic precautions, such as screening for a wider array of COVID‐19 symptoms, increased antenatal surveillance, and possibly routine COVID‐19 testing throughout pregnancy.
A forward‐backward sweep based numerical approach for active power loss allocation of radial distribution network with distributed generations
Authors: Hota Ambika Prasad , Mishra Sivkumar
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a new active power loss allocation (LA) technique is proposed for allocation of network losses among its participants in a deregulated power environment. This method employs a forward‐backward sweep (FBS) based numerical technique for system load flow (LF) and power loss calculation with/without distributed generators (DGs). The complexity lying with the decomposition of cross‐term of power loss equation has been simplified mathematically, without any assumptions and approximations. The proposed LA establishes a direct relationship between two end voltages of a branch and its subsequent node currents in terms of node injected complex powers. It assigns losses to the end‐users with due consideration to their load demands and geographical locations. The penetration of DGs may increase/decrease loss of a power distribution network. In order to provide justice to the DG owners, this paper proposes a new DG remuneration technique, which assigns either incentives/penalties to the DG units after analyzing their exact impact toward network loss reduction/enhancement, without diverting any part toward the consumers' side compared to other established methods. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is investigated using a 33‐bus test system considering: various load levels, several DG capacities and different types of DG power injections. The results obtained highlight the efficiency and applicability of the present approach as compared to other established techniques.
Voice and Stroboscopic Characteristics in Transgender Patients Seeking Gender‐Affirming Voice Care
Authors: Young VyVy N. , Yousef Andrew , Zhao Nina W. , Schneider Sarah L.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Understanding transgender voice is in nascent stages. This study describes voice characteristics in treatment‐seeking trans women by comparing two validated questionnaires—Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10) and Transsexual Voice Questionnaire (TVQMtF)—and reports incidence of abnormal stroboscopy findings and acoustic characteristics.

Methods

Retrospective review of transgender patients presenting to tertiary‐care laryngology center between February 2018–February 2019. Mean VHI‐10, TVQ, and Singing VHI‐10 (SVHI‐10) scores; audio‐perceptual grade; acoustic measures; and stroboscopy findings were analyzed. VHI‐10 and SVHI‐10 vs TVQMtF were compared.

Results

Sixty‐one trans female patients (mean age: 32 ± 11 years) were analyzed. Mean duration since start of transition was 41.5 ± 61 months. Sixty‐nine percent presented full‐time female in all contexts. Pathologic stroboscopy findings were found in 5%. Mean questionnaire scores were 16 ± 10 (VHI‐10), 19 ± 13 (SVHI‐10), and 81 ± 22 (TVQMtF). Correlation between VHI‐10 and SVHI‐10 versus TVQMtF was weak, R = 0.47 (P = .053) and R = 0.35 (P = .17), respectively. Mean audio‐perceptual grade was 0.27 ± 0.15. Mean Cepstral Spectral Index of Dysphonia (CSID, sustained vowel) was 8.5 ± 21.9. Mean Cepstral Peak Prominence (CPP) Fo and CPP Fo SD in rainbow passage were 157.3 ± 16 and 59.4 ± 15.9, respectively.

Conclusion

Trans women report perceived voice handicap in speaking and singing, which appears separate from gender‐related voice/communication concerns. This study is the first to report stroboscopy findings in transgender individuals, with 5% being abnormal. Stroboscopy is encouraged before initiating voice intervention in transgender patients. Preliminary evaluation suggests weak correlation between VHI‐10 or SVHI‐10 and TVQMtF but requires further investigation. TVQMtF may provide information which more specifically reflects voice concerns of trans women as compared to VHI‐10 and SVHI‐10.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1071–1077, 2021