bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Form and function of tentacles in pteriomorphian bivalves
Authors: Audino Jorge A. , Marian José E. A. R. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractTentacles are remarkable anatomical structures in invertebrates for their diversity of form and function. In bivalves, tentacular organs are commonly associated with protective, secretory, and sensory roles. However, anatomical details are available for only a few species, rendering the diversity and evolution of bivalve tentacles still obscure. In Pteriomorphia, a clade including oysters, scallops, pearl oysters, and relatives, tentacles are abundant and diverse. We investigated tentacle anatomy in the group to understand variation, infer functions, and investigate patterns in tentacle diversity. Six species from four pteriomorphian families (Ostreidae, Pinnidae, Pteriidae, and Spondylidae) were collected and thoroughly investigated with integrative microscopy techniques, including histology, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal microscopy. Tentacles can be classified as middle fold tentacles (MFT) and inner fold tentacles (IFT) according to their position with respect to the folds of the mantle margin. While MFT morphology indicates intense secretion of mucosubstances, no evidence for secretory activity was found for IFT. However, both tentacle types have appropriate ciliary distribution and length to promote mucus transportation for cleaning and lubrication. Protective and sensory functions are discussed based on different lines of evidence, including secretion, cilia distribution, musculature, and innervation. Our results support the homology of MFT and IFT only for Pterioidea and Ostreoidea, considering their morphology, the presence of ciliated receptors at the tips, and branched innervation pattern. This is in accordance with recent phylogenetic hypotheses that support the close relationship between these superfamilies. In contrast, major structural differences indicate that MFT and IFT are probably not homologous across all pteriomorphians. By applying integrative microscopy, we were able to reveal anatomical elements that are essential for the understanding of homology and function when dealing with such superficially similar structures.
Fragmentation pathways of deprotonated amide‐sulfonamide CXCR4 inhibitors investigated by ESI‐IT‐MSn, ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS and DFT calculations
Authors: Guo Zili , Jie Xiaokang , Zhu Peixi , Sun Jian , Gu Jinping , Su Feng , Bai Renren , Xie Yuanyuan 
Published: November 2019

AbstractAmide‐sulfonamides provide a potent anti‐inflammatory scaffold targeting the CXCR4 receptor. A series of novel amide‐sulfonamide derivatives were investigated for their gas‐phase fragmentation behaviors using electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry and quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry in negative ion mode. Upon collision‐induced dissociation (CID), deprotonated amide‐sulfonamides mainly underwent either an elimination of the amine to form the sulfonyl anion and amide anion or a benzoylamide derivative to provide sulfonamide anion bearing respective substituent groups. Based on the characteristic fragment ions and the deuterium–hydrogen exchange experiments, three possible fragmentation mechanisms corresponding to ion‐neutral complexes including [sulfonyl anion/amine] complex (INC‐1), [sulfonamide anion/benzoylamide derivative] complex (INC‐2) and [amide anion/sulfonamide] complex (INC‐3), respectively, were proposed. These three ion‐neutral complexes might be produced by the cleavages of S–N and C–N bond from the amide‐sulfonamides, which generated the sulfonyl anion (Route 1), sulfonamide anion (Route 2) and the amide anion (Route 3). DFT calculations suggested that Route 1, which generated the sulfonyl anion (ion c) is more favorable. In addition, the elimination of SO2 through a three‐membered‐ring transition state followed by the formation of C–N was observed for all the amide‐sulfonamides.
Nonstationary influence of the North Atlantic tropical cyclones on the spatio‐temporal variability of the eastern United States precipitation extremes
Authors: Dhakal Nirajan , Jain Shaleen 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIn the eastern United States, the empirical probability distribution of extreme daily precipitation comprises heavy rainfall events stemming from North Atlantic tropical cyclones (TCs). At many locations, these events influence estimates of extreme value statistics (e.g., 100‐year event), thus have important bearing on the sizing of flood protection infrastructure and, in general, flood risk management and preparedness. Consequently, a characterization of location specific and regional patterns in precipitation extremes and changes therein has salience for both scientific and engineering concerns. To this end, analysis of seasonal and annual maximum daily precipitation at 667 long‐term stations across the eastern United States was pursued to ascertain recent changes in the extreme events over the 1950–2011 period. Three key results from this study illuminate less understood facets of recent changes in precipitation extremes: (a) an overall increase in the fraction of seasonal and annual maximum precipitation events linked to TCs, (b) a dramatic increase in the correlation between Accumulated Cyclone Energy Index and the leading principal component of extreme precipitation, and (c) changes in the spatial patterns of regions with highest TC‐related risk for heavy precipitation.
Think Globally, Act Locally: The Importance of Population‐Specific Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Prediction Equations for Muscle Mass Assessment
Authors: Barbosa‐Silva Thiago G. , Gonzalez Maria Cristina , Bielemann Renata M. , Santos Leonardo P. , Menezes Ana Maria B. ,   the COCONUT Study Group, Brazil
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundBioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a convenient muscle assessment method, but its accuracy highly depends on population‐specific aspects of the adopted equation. We aimed to develop appendicular lean mass (ALM) prediction models for older South Americans and to compare their performances to those of reference equations in the same sample.MethodsCross‐sectional evaluation of 192 community‐dwelling Brazilian subjects ≥60 years old from the COMO VAI? study. Using measurements from single‐frequency and multifrequency devices (BIASF and BIAMF, respectively), new ALM prediction equations were developed (reference method: dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry [DXA]). Validity was assessed by bootstrapping. Four previously established equations were also tested, and the performances were compared using Bland–Altman analysis.ResultsStepwise variable selection produced the following equations: ALMSF‐BIA = (2.08 × sex) + (0.04 × weight) + (0.24 × RI50) + (0.07 × Xc50) − 0.16; ALMMF‐BIA = (1.85 × sex) + (0.03 × weight) + (0.31 × RI50) + (0.04 × Xc50) + (0.01 × Z5) − 8.16, where ALM is estimated in kg; female sex = 0 and male sex = 1; weight is measured in kg; RI50 is the resistance index at 50 kHz measured in cm2/Ω); Xc50 is the reactance at 50 kHz measured in Ω; and Z5 is impedance at 5 kHz measured in Ω. The equations explained, respectively, 89% and 90% of the variability of ALMDXA in our sample, and their estimates were not significantly different from DXA measurements. Bland–Altman analysis revealed accurate and unbiased performances for both models, with similar limits of agreement (BIASF: ±2.58 kg; BIAMF: ±2.48 kg), and their validity was considered adequate by the bootstrap method. The reference equations, however, systematically overestimated ALM in our sample.ConclusionThe proposed equations might represent practical options to estimate ALM in older noninstitutionalized South Americans. Further external validation, though, is required to verify the reproducibility of our findings.
A design of experiments concept for the minimization of nonspecific peptide adsorption in the mass spectrometric determination of substance P and related hemokinin‐1
Authors: Feickert Martin , Burckhardt Bjoern B 
Published: November 2019

AbstractSubstance P and hemokinin‐1 were predominantly examined by immunoassays with their limitation to differentiate appropriately between both peptides. The use of liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry is a promising, highly selective alternative. Adsorption processes have been identified in preliminary experiments to play a crucial role in the loss of mass spectrometry intensity of both peptides. Therefore, a design of experiments concept was created to minimize nonspecific peptide adsorption. For this purpose, the most critical influencing parameters—(1) the composition of the injection solvent as well as (2) the most suitable container material—were systematically and concordantly investigated. The addition of modifiers, such as formic acid, dimethyl sulfoxide, and organic solvents, to the injection solvent led to a substantial gain of intensity of substance P and hemokinin‐1 compared to the start gradient as an injection solvent. Furthermore, the systematic investigation underlined the high impact of the container material, demonstrating polypropylene as the most favorable material. A conjoint injection solvent optimum was found to determine both peptides simultaneously by the conduction of a sweet‐spot analysis. The experimental design substantially reduced nonspecific peptide adsorption and enabled the simultaneous and selective determination of endogenous substance P and hemokinin‐1 plasma levels.
Examining the Discriminant Validity of Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder Symptoms: Results From a United Kingdom Population Sample
Authors: Hyland Philip , Karatzias Thanos , Shevlin Mark , Cloitre Marylène 
Published: November 2019

AbstractComplex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) was added to the diagnostic nomenclature in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐11). Although considerable evidence exists supporting the construct validity of CPTSD, the distinguishability of CPTSD symptoms from those of borderline personality disorder (BPD) has been questioned. The present study examined the discriminant validity of CPTSD and BPD symptoms among a trauma‐exposed population sample from the United Kingdom (N = 546). Participants completed self‐report measures of CPTSD and BPD symptoms, and their latent structure was assessed using exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM). A three‐factor model with latent variables reflecting PTSD, disturbances in self‐organization (DSO), and BPD symptoms provided the best fit of the data, χ2(399, N = 546) = 1,650, p < .001; CFI = .944; TLI = .930; RMSEA = .077, 90% CI [.073, .081]. We identified multiple symptoms distinctive to individual constructs (e.g., disturbed relationships and suicidality) as well as symptoms shared across the constructs (e.g., affective dysregulation). The PTSD, β = .24; DSO, β = .23; and BPD, β = .27, latent variables were positively and significantly associated with childhood interpersonal trauma. The current findings support the discriminant validity of CPTSD and BPD symptoms and highlight various phenomenological signatures of each construct as well as demonstrate how these constructs share important similarities in symptom composition and exogenous correlates.
Harvest Effects on Blood Pythons in North Sumatra
Authors: Natusch Daniel J. D. , Lyons Jessica A. , Mumpuni  , Riyanto Awal , Shine Richard 
Published: November 2019

ABSTRACTWildlife populations exposed to intense harvesting often exhibit shifts in attributes of the commercial offtake (e.g., numbers, body sizes, body condition, sex ratios, size at maturation, reproductive frequency). To look for such changes, we examined >2,500 specimens of field‐collected blood pythons (Python brongersmai) brought to 2 processing facilities in North Sumatra over 2 survey periods (1996–1997 and 2014–2015). Over the 18 years between our surveys, approximately 900,000 blood pythons were taken from Indonesia for the commercial trade; North Sumatra accounted for about 35% of that trade volume. Between survey periods, numbers of snakes brought to 1 processing facility decreased and mean body size increased, whereas at the second facility numbers and sizes of snakes remained the same. Overall, the pythons collected in 2015–2016 were thinner‐bodied than in 1996–1997, with fewer immature animals and a reduced size at maturation and reproductive frequency among females. Clutch size relative to maternal size decreased also. These temporal shifts in python demographics likely reflect a response to harvesting, although ecosystem changes may have played a role. Compared to other squamate reptiles, blood pythons may be more vulnerable to over‐harvesting because most snakes are intensively collected from discrete habitat patches (oil palm plantations), and the species can be targeted by specific hunting methods. To ensure sustainability of the harvest, we recommend minimum and maximum size limits for skins used in the commercial trade, and more intensive monitoring at processing facilities. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Association of Toll‐like 4 receptor gene polymorphism (rs4986790, rs4986791) with the risk of urinary tract infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Wen‐Lin , Xu Yong , Wan Shaw‐Pong 
Published: November 2019

AbstractRecently published studies had shown that there may be a potential link between the Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of Toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR4), and the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI); however, no consensus was reached. To further understand the relationship between TLR SNPs and urinary tract infections, we searched for related studies published in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science before October 30, 2018, for further systematic review and meta‐analysis. Our study accrued 10 case‐control studies, which included 1476 urinary tract infection patients and 1449 healthy controls in TLR4(rs4986790, rs4986791). R3.4.2 and Stata 15.0 software were used for the analysis. In general, there was no statistically significant association between rs4986790 and urinary tract infection in the four genetic models. However, in the subgroup analysis, the Asian population showed significantly difference in the allelic model (G vs A: OR = 1.88 [95% CI:1.42‐2.49], P = .03). In addition, there were also significant differences in the dominant model (GG + AG vs AA OR = 1.97 [95% CI:1.46‐2.66], P = .01). Due to the small number of available literatures, no meaningful conclusion can be drawn regarding the relationship between TLR4 (rs4986791) and the risk of urinary tract infections in general. Nevertheless, our meta‐analysis shows that in Asian populations, TLR4 (rs4986790) may be associated with risk of urinary tract infection.
Health information technology as a learning health system: Call for a national monitoring system
Authors: Colicchio Tiago K. , Del Fiol Guilherme , Cimino James J. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractAfter over half a century of computer application development in medicine, the US health system has gone digital with an enthusiastic confidence for rapid improvements in care outcomes, especially those of quality of care, safety, and productivity. The bad news is that evidence for the justification of the hype around health information technology (HIT) is conflicting, and the expected benefits of a digital health system have not yet materialized. We propose a national system for monitoring HIT impact based on the paradigm of the learning health system (LHS): learning from practical experience through high‐quality, ongoing monitoring of care outcomes. Our proposal aims at leveraging current de facto standard research data repositories used to support large‐scale clinical studies by incorporating data needed for more robust HIT assessments and application of rigorous research designs that are now feasible on a large scale.
In vivo human head MRI at 10.5T: A radiofrequency safety study and preliminary imaging results
Authors: Sadeghi‐Tarakameh Alireza , DelaBarre Lance , Lagore Russell L. , Torrado‐Carvajal Angel , Wu Xiaoping , Grant Andrea , Adriany Gregor , Metzger Gregory J. , Van de Moortele Pierre‐Francois , Ugurbil Kamil , Atalar Ergin , Eryaman Yigitcan 
Published: November 2019

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to safely acquire the first human head images at 10.5T.MethodsTo ensure safety of subjects, we validated the electromagnetic simulation model of our coil. We obtained quantitative agreement between simulated and experimental and specific absorption rate (SAR). Using the validated coil model, we calculated radiofrequency power levels to safely image human subjects. We conducted all experiments and imaging sessions in a controlled radiofrequency safety lab and the whole‐body 10.5T scanner in the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research.ResultsQuantitative agreement between the simulated and experimental results was obtained including S‐parameters, maps, and SAR. We calculated peak 10 g average SAR using 4 different realistic human body models for a quadrature excitation and demonstrated that the peak 10 g SAR variation between subjects was less than 30%. We calculated safe power limits based on this set and used those limits to acquire T2‐ and ‐weighted images of human subjects at 10.5T.ConclusionsIn this study, we acquired the first in vivo human head images at 10.5T using an 8‐channel transmit/receive coil. We implemented and expanded a previously proposed workflow to validate the electromagnetic simulation model of the 8‐channel transmit/receive coil. Using the validated coil model, we calculated radiofrequency power levels to safely image human subjects.
Engaging stakeholders to refine an activity pacing framework for chronic pain/fatigue: A nominal group technique
Authors: Antcliff Deborah , Keenan Anne‐Maree , Keeley Philip , Woby Steve , McGowan Linda 
Published: November 2019

AbstractObjectivesDue to the current absence of a standardized guide for activity pacing, the concept of pacing is interpreted in various ways by healthcare professionals, patients and researchers. Consequently, the effects of pacing across different conditions are unclear. The present study aimed to undertake the second stage in the development of an activity pacing framework for chronic pain/fatigue.MethodsThe newly developed activity pacing framework was refined using a consensus method. A nominal group technique (NGT) was selected to engage stakeholders to reach agreement on the top 10 priorities for inclusion in the framework and accompanying appendices. Participants included patients with diagnoses of chronic pain/fatigue and healthcare professionals working in fields of chronic pain/fatigue.ResultsTen participants were recruited via purposive sampling: four patients, two physiotherapists, two occupational therapists and two psychological wellbeing practitioners. The top priorities for the pacing framework included a clear definition of pacing, and stating the aims and context of pacing. The appendices were refined as a teaching guide, including priorities of detailing the stages of pacing, the overactivity–underactivity cycle/pain cycle and goal setting.ConclusionsIncorporating a diverse panel of stakeholders was an effective and inclusive method to refine the activity pacing framework. The framework has been purposefully designed for wider use across patients with chronic pain/fatigue and by various healthcare professionals. The framework provides a comprehensive definition, background and manual for healthcare professionals to instruct activity pacing. Further study will test the clinical usability of the framework, to enable the standardization of activity pacing in future investigations.
Diagnostic utility of small fiber analysis in skin biopsies from children with chronic pain
Authors: Görlach Jonas , Amsel Daniel , Kölbel Heike , Grzybowsky Michelle , Rutsch Frank , Schlierbach Hannah , Vanlander Arnaud , Pogatzki‐Zahn Esther , Habig Kathrin , Garkisch Stefanie , Müller Verena , Fritz Thorsten , Ziegler Andreas , Hahn Andreas , Krämer Heidrun H. , Van Coster Rudy , Schänzer Anne 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIntroductionSmall fiber neuropathies (SFN) are associated with a reduction in quality of life. In adults, epidermal nerve fiber density (END) analysis is recommended for the diagnosis of SFN. In children, END assessment is not often performed. We analyzed small nerve fiber innervation to elucidate the potential diagnostic role of skin biopsies in young patients with pain.MethodsEpidermal nerve fiber density and sudomotor neurite density (SND) were assessed in skin biopsies from 26 patients aged 7 to 20 years (15 female patients) with unexplained chronic pain. The results were compared with clinical data.ResultsEpidermal nerve fiber density was abnormal in 50% and borderline in 35% of patients. An underlying medical condition was found in 42% of patients, including metabolic, autoimmune, and genetic disorders.DiscussionReduction of epidermal nerve fibers can be associated with treatable conditions. Therefore, the analysis of END in children with pain may help to uncover a possible cause and guide potential treatment options.
Investigation on effect of process parameters on delamination during drilling of kenaf‐banana fiber reinforced in epoxy hybrid composite using Taguchi method
Authors: Rajaraman Giridharan , Agasti Santosh Kumar , Jenarthanan Mugundu Poornachary 
Published: November 2019

AbstractDelamination is a serious issue during drilling of FRP composites. The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of process parameters on delamination during drilling of kenaf and banana fiber reinforced in epoxy hybrid composite using Taguchi method. The FRP composite was fabricated by hand‐layup technique. The fabricated specimen was drilled using HSS drill bits (5, 10, 15 mm) coated with tungsten carbide. The contemplated process parameters are feed, and speed. The “Minitab 18” software was employed to investigate the data collected by taking advantage of the various statistical and graphical tools available. The trials were carried out by taking advantage of Taguchi's L‐9 factorial design orthogonal array. Through several steps, it was found that the optimum drilling parameters are spindle speed = 3000 rpm; feed = 150 mm/min. Thus, in this research, an attempt has been made to optimize the drilling parameters.
Hybrid cellulose‐inorganic reinforcement polypropylene composites: Lightweight materials for automotive applications
Authors: Reale Batista Mariana Desireé , Drzal Lawrence T. , Kiziltas Alper , Mielewski Deborah 
Published: November 2019

AbstractCellulose fibers are attracting considerable attention within the transportation industry as a class of reinforcing agents for polymer composites owing to their low cost, low density, high mechanical properties, and considerable environmental benefits. The objective of this study was to develop hybrid composites combining cellulose fiber with long glass fiber (LGF), short glass fiber (SGF), or talc in a polypropylene (PP) matrix to optimize the overall composite properties. Tensile, flexural, and notched Izod impact tests revealed that in general the mechanical properties decreased with increasing cellulose content, however, adding an optimum concentration of the cellulose fiber is a promising alternative to reduce or replace the utilization of inorganic fibers. Hybrid composites with 15 wt% LGF and 15 wt% Cellulose A exhibited an increase of 86% and 252% in tensile stress and Young's modulus, respectively, compared to neat PP X. Regarding the impact strength and the temperature at the maximum rate of decomposition, hybrid composites with 15 wt% SGF and 15 wt% Cellulose B exhibited 23% and 17% increase, respectively, compared to neat PP Z. The crystallization temperature (Tc) of all the composites increased compared to neat PP, revealing the fibers ability to act as nucleating agents and speed rate of part production which will result in lowering the manufacturing cost. For applications in automotive “under‐the‐hood” and body interior components, the hybrid cellulose‐inorganic reinforcement composite approach not only leads to superior weight and cost savings, but also environment benefits over the inorganic reinforced composites.