bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Balanced wireless sensor networks with energy efficient bees swarm–harmony Search–Hill Climbing mechanism
Authors: Kavitha N. S. , Singaravel G. 
Published: March 2021

SummaryWireless sensor networks (WSNs) are widely employed in various sectors, which include health care, military, automotive, and manufacturing sectors. Most of these applications use WSN with certain limitations in terms of its computational power, storage capability, and energy supply. Among this, energy supply is considered to be a major limitation for these sectors. Therefore, prolonging the lifetime of the network by improving the energy efficiency in WSN is a common objective in many types of research. In this research, the WSN energy efficiency is improved using the data aggregation clustering technique by balancing the energy consumption among the sensor nodes. To balance the energy consumption, an efficient selection of cluster heads is required with faster convergence and an improved search pattern. In accomplishing this, a hybrid architecture that combines Bees Swarm Optimization (BSO) with Harmony Search Algorithm (HSA) is used. The combination of both BSO and HSA tends to achieve premature convergence that leads to poor selection of cluster head. Hence, to increase the optimal and faster convergence, the proposed system uses the Hill Climbing algorithm to reach the optimal solution with faster convergence in a shorter computational time. The experiments are conducted with various node densities between the proposed and existing methods. The result shows that the proposed method is active in improving the search capability in effectively finding the cluster heads for improved routing paths.
Learning deficit in cognitively normal APOE ε4 carriers with LOW β‐amyloid
Authors: Lim Yen Ying , Baker Jenalle E. , Mills Andrea , Bruns Loren , Fowler Christopher , Fripp Jurgen , Rainey‐Smith Stephanie R. , Ames David , Masters Colin L , Maruff Paul 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIntroductionIn cognitively normal (CN) adults, increased rates of amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation can be detected in low Aβ (Aβ–) apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 carriers. We aimed to determine the effect of ε4 on the ability to benefit from experience (ie, learn) in Aβ– CNs.MethodsAβ– CNs (n = 333) underwent episodic memory assessments every 18 months for 108 months. A subset (n = 48) completed the Online Repeatable Cognitive Assessment‐Language Learning Test (ORCA‐LLT) over 6 days.ResultsAβ– ε4 carriers showed significantly lower rates of improvement on episodic memory over 108 months compared to non‐carriers (d = 0.3). Rates of learning on the ORCA‐LLT were significantly slower in Aβ– ε4 carriers compared to non‐carriers (d = 1.2).DiscussionIn Aβ– CNs, ε4 is associated with a reduced ability to benefit from experience. This manifested as reduced practice effects (small to moderate in magnitude) over 108 months on the episodic memory composite, and a learning deficit (large in magnitude) over 6 days on the ORCA‐LLT. Alzheimer's disease (AD)–related cognitive abnormalities can manifest before preclinical AD thresholds.
Tools and approaches for analyzing the role of mitochondria in health, development and disease using human cerebral organoids
Authors: Liput Michał , Magliaro Chiara , Kuczynska Zuzanna , Zayat Valery , Ahluwalia Arti , Buzanska Leonora 
Published: March 2021

AbstractMitochondria are cellular organelles involved in generating energy to power various processes in the cell. Although the pivotal role of mitochondria in neurogenesis was demonstrated (first in animal models), very little is known about their role in human embryonic neurodevelopment and its pathology. In this respect human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC)‐derived cerebral organoids provide a tractable, alternative model system of the early neural development and disease that is responsive to pharmacological and genetic manipulations, not possible to apply in humans. Although the involvement of mitochondria in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases and brain dysfunction has been demonstrated, the precise role they play in cell life and death remains unknown, compromising the development of new mitochondria‐targeted approaches to treat human diseases. The cerebral organoid model of neurogenesis and disease in vitro provides an unprecedented opportunity to answer some of the most fundamental questions about mitochondrial function in early human neurodevelopment and neural pathology. Largely an unexplored territory due to the lack of tools and approaches, this review focuses on recent technological advancements in fluorescent and molecular tools, imaging systems, and computational approaches for quantitative and qualitative analyses of mitochondrial structure and function in three‐dimensional cellular assemblies—cerebral organoids. Future developments in this direction will further facilitate our understanding of the important role or mitochondrial dynamics and energy requirements during early embryonic development. This in turn will provide a further understanding of how dysfunctional mitochondria contribute to disease processes.
Comparative gut content analysis of invasive mosquitofish from Italy and Spain
Authors: Pirroni Sara , de Pennafort Dezen Laura , Santi Francesco , Riesch Rüdiger 
Published: March 2021

AbstractEastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) are among the most widely introduced freshwater species globally. To gain a better understanding of feeding patterns in non‐native populations, and which local factors may influence them at the population level, we carried out gut content analysis on 163 specimens from nine invasive populations in Italy and Spain. Based on previous studies, we predicted that (a) mosquitofish are omnivores with a preference for detritus and cladocerans; (b) they display size‐ and population‐specific differences in gut morphologies and diet, with larger fish feeding more intensively over a wider range of prey items; and (c) some of the variation would be associated with differences in local environmental and climatic factors. Our results confirmed our first prediction, because mosquitofish fed on a variety of diet items, among which detritus and Cladocera dominated. However, not a single diet item was shared among all populations. Congruent with our second prediction, we further identified size‐ and population‐specific differences in the occurrence of some diet items and gut morphologies. However, observed patterns in dietary habits did not seem to be driven by the environmental and climatic variables we had quantified. The fairly variable diet likely aids invasion success and helps explain the ubiquity of invasive mosquitofish across Italy and Spain, as mosquitofish seem to be able to rely on whatever a local habitat provides. We further propose that size‐specific differences likely capture the substantial sexual size dimorphism (males are smaller than females), while population‐specific differences are likely the result of differences in local prey abundance. The lack of an influence of temperature on dietary habits suggests that mosquitofish feeding ecology may be less impacted by rising temperatures than other freshwater fish species. If true, then this suggests climate change‐induced effects may further exacerbate the competitive superiority of mosquitofish over native species in the future.
A validation scale to determine the readiness of environmental DNA assays for routine species monitoring
Authors: Thalinger Bettina , Deiner Kristy , Harper Lynsey R. , Rees Helen C. , Blackman Rosetta C. , Sint Daniela , Traugott Michael , Goldberg Caren S. , Bruce Kat 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe use of environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis for species monitoring requires rigorous validation—from field sampling to the analysis of PCR‐based results—for meaningful application and interpretation. Assays targeting eDNA released by individual species are typically validated with no predefined criteria to answer specific research questions in one ecosystem. Hence, the general applicability of assays, as well as associated uncertainties and limitations, often remain undetermined. The absence of clear guidelines for assay validation prevents targeted eDNA assays from being incorporated into species monitoring and policy; thus, their establishment is essential for realizing the potential of eDNA‐based surveys. We describe the measures and tests necessary for successful validation of targeted eDNA assays and the associated pitfalls to form the basis of guidelines. A list of 122 variables was compiled, consolidated into 14 thematic blocks (e.g., “in silico analysis”), and arranged on a 5‐level validation scale from “incomplete” to “operational” with defined minimum validation criteria for each level. These variables were evaluated for 546 published single‐species assays. The resulting dataset was used to provide an overview of current validation practices and test the applicability of the validation scale for future assay rating. Of the 122 variables, 20% to 76% were reported; the majority (30%) of investigated assays were classified as Level 1 (incomplete), and 15% did not achieve this first level. These assays were characterized by minimal in silico and in vitro testing, but their share in annually published eDNA assays has declined since 2014. The meta‐analysis demonstrates the suitability of the 5‐level validation scale for assessing targeted eDNA assays. It is a user‐friendly tool to evaluate previously published assays for future research and routine monitoring, while also enabling the appropriate interpretation of results. Finally, it provides guidance on validation and reporting standards for newly developed assays.
Palladium‐Catalyzed C−H Functionalization of Diaryl 1,3,5‐Triazines
Authors: Lu Xiaodong , Wan Boshun 
Published: March 2021

AbstractDiaryl 1,3,5‐triazines are not only important linkers in various covalent‐ and metal‐organic frameworks but also versatile electron acceptors in host materials for organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). We herein report C−H acetoxylation, benzoxylation, methoxylation, and halogenation of a diverse array of diaryl 1,3,5‐triazines under palladium catalysis. Both symmetrical and nonsymmetrical diaryltriazines are viable substrates. This work offers a potential alternative to the existing methods in preparation or modification of functional materials.
Bioamperometric Systems with Fructose Dehydrogenase From Gluconobacter japonicus for D‐Tagatose Monitoring
Authors: Voitechovič Edita , Stankevičiūtė Jonita , Vektarienė Aušra , Vektaris Gytis , Jančienė Regina , Kuisienė Nomeda , Razumienė Julija , Meškys Rolandas 
Published: March 2021

AbstractD‐Tagatose is a rare natural sugar, which is promising alternative for popular dietary sweeteners. To optimize and make D‐tagatose production more cost‐effective, a portable (bio)sensor would be beneficial for D‐tagatose quantification in bioreactor media during D‐tagatose (bio)synthesis. In this study, a pilot study of D‐tagatose quantification by a bioamperometric system is reported. A key feature of the system is usage of fructose dehydrogenase from Gluconobacter japonicus, widely known as a highly fructose‐specific enzyme, and 2‐arylamino‐1,4‐benzoquinone derivatives, as electron transfer mediators from the enzyme to carbon electrodes. The system has been validated as biosensor for D‐tagatose quantification in the fermentation medium.
Steatotic Hepatocytes Release Mature VLDL Through Methionine and Tyrosine Metabolism in a Keap1‐Nrf2–Dependent Manner
Authors: Sano Akitoshi , Kakazu Eiji , Hamada Shin , Inoue Jun , Ninomiya Masashi , Iwata Tomoaki , Tsuruoka Mio , Sato Kosuke , Masamune Atsushi 
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims
NAFLD is a lipotoxic disease wherein hepatic steatosis and oxidative stress are key pathogenic features. However, whether free amino acids (FAAs) are associated with the oxidative stress response against lipotoxicity has yet to be determined. We hypothesized that an imbalance of FAAs aggravates hepatic steatosis by interfering with the oxidative stress sensor.

Approach and Results
C57BL/6 mouse immortalized hepatocytes, primary hepatocytes, and organoids were employed. Steatotic hepatocytes treated with oleic acid (OA) were cultured under FAA‐modifying media based on the concentrations of FAAs in the hepatic portal blood of wild‐type (WT) mice. As in vivo experiments, WT hepatocyte‐specific Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) knockout mice (Keap1∆hepa) and Cre‐ control mice (Keap1fx/fx) were fed high‐fat (HF) diets with modified amino acid content. The correlations were analyzed between the areas of lipid droplets (LDs) around central vein and plasma OA/FAA ratio in 61 patients with NAFLD. Mice fed an HF, Met‐restricted, and tyrosine (Tyr)‐deficient diet showed the NAFLD‐like phenotype in which the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), triglyceride‐rich VLDL, and fumarate were decreased in liver, but Keap1∆hepa ameliorated these phenomena. Reactive oxygen species and LDs induced by the deprivation of Met and Tyr were prevented in hepatic organoids generated from Keap1∆hepa. Dimethyl fumarate, an Nrf2 inducer, ameliorated the steatosis and increased the hepatic fumarate reduced by the deprivation of Met and Tyr in vitro. OA/Met or Tyr ratio in peripheral blood was associated with the hepatic steatosis in patients with NAFLD.

Conclusions
An imbalance between free fatty acids and Met and Tyr induces hepatic steatosis by disturbing the VLDL assembling through the Keap1‐Nrf2 system.
Accuracy of Transient Elastography in Assessing Fibrosis at Diagnosis in Naïve Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Dual Cut‐Off Approach
Authors: Cristoferi Laura , Calvaruso Vincenza , Overi Diletta , Viganò Mauro , Rigamonti Cristina , Degasperi Elisabetta , Cardinale Vincenzo , Labanca Sara , Zucchini Nicola , Fichera Anna , Di Marco Vito , Leutner Monica , Venere Rosanna , Picciotto Antonino , Lucà Martina , Mulinacci Giacomo , Palermo Andrea , Gerussi Alessio , D’Amato Daphne , Elisabeth O’Donnell Sarah , Cerini Federica , De Benedittis Carla , Malinverno Federica , Ronca Vincenzo , Mancuso Clara , Cazzagon Nora , Ciaccio Antonio , Barisani Donatella , Marzioni Marco , Floreani Annarosa , Alvaro Domenico , Gaudio Eugenio , Invernizzi Pietro , Carpino Guido , Nardi Alessandra , Carbone Marco ,   on the behalf of the Italian PBC Registry
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims
Liver fibrosis holds a relevant prognostic meaning in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Noninvasive fibrosis evaluation using vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) is routinely performed. However, there is limited evidence on its accuracy at diagnosis in PBC. We aimed to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of VCTE in assessing advanced fibrosis (AF) at disease presentation in PBC.

Approach and Results
We collected data from 167 consecutive treatment‐naïve PBC patients who underwent liver biopsy (LB) at diagnosis at six Italian centers. VCTE examinations were completed within 12 weeks of LB. Biopsies were scored by two blinded expert pathologists, according to the Ludwig system. Diagnostic accuracy was estimated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) for AF (Ludwig stage ≥III). Effects of biochemical and clinical parameters on liver stiffness measurement (LSM) were appraised. The derivation cohort consisted of 126 patients with valid LSM and LB; VCTE identified patients with AF with an AUROC of 0.89. LSM cutoffs ≤6.5 and >11.0 kPa enabled to exclude and confirm, respectively, AF (negative predictive value [NPV] = 0.94; positive predictive value [PPV] = 0.89; error rate = 5.6%). These values were externally validated in an independent cohort of 91 PBC patients (NPV = 0.93; PPV = 0.89; error rate = 8.6%). Multivariable analysis found that the only parameter affecting LSM was fibrosis stage. No association was found with BMI and liver biochemistry.

Conclusions
In a multicenter study of treatment‐naïve PBC patients, we identified two cutoffs (LSM ≤6.5 and >11.0 kPa) able to discriminate at diagnosis the absence or presence, respectively, of AF in PBC patients, with external validation. In patients with LSM between these two cutoffs, VCTE is not reliable and liver biopsy should be evaluated for accurate disease staging. BMI and liver biochemistry did not affect LSMs.
Radiofrequency Ablation Covering the Entire Tumor Blood Drainage Area Improves Survival in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hirooka Masashi , Koizumi Yohei , Tanaka Takaaki , Sunago Kotarou , Nakamura Yoshiko , Watanabe Takao , Yoshida Osamu , Tokumoto Yoshio , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi 
Published: March 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma has been considered to disseminate through the tumor blood drainage area. To improve curation rates, treatment should cover this area as it may contain satellite lesions. This retrospective study aimed to investigate whether radiofrequency ablation (RFA) completely covering the blood drainage area can improve the overall and disease‐free survival. We enrolled 526 patients who underwent computed tomography during hepatic arteriography following RFA from April 2001 to May 2019. Patients were categorized into a covered group in which the blood drainage area was completely covered by RFA and a noncovered group in which coverage was incomplete. The primary endpoint was the overall survival rate; secondary outcomes included disease‐free survival rate, distant intrahepatic and local recurrence rate, and changes in the Child‐Pugh score. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Cumulative overall survival rates were significantly higher in the covered group than in the noncovered group (hazard ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.48‐0.84; P = 0.002). On multivariate Cox proportional hazard model analysis, age <65 years, Child‐Pugh class A, and coverage of the entire drainage area were independent protective factors. Child‐Pugh worsened in 11 (4.2%) patients in the covered group compared to 18 (6.7%) patients in the noncovered group. Conclusion: RFA covering the complete drainage area improved overall survival without decreasing liver function.
Observed and reported coparenting and toddlers' adaptive functioning
Authors: Nandy Angana , Nixon Elizabeth , Quigley Jean 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThis study examined the associations between perceived and observed coparenting and toddlers' adaptive functioning. Seventy‐seven typically developing toddlers aged between 21 and 27 months and their biological parents residing in Ireland participated in the study. Participating families were Caucasian and English speaking. Parents' perceived coparental relationship was assessed via self‐report. In addition, coparenting dynamics were observed during triadic free‐play and structured‐play tasks. Mothers reported on their toddlers' adaptive functioning. Results indicated a negative association between undermining coparenting and toddlers' social and communication adaptive skills. Findings from the current study highlight the critical role played by triadic family processes in young children's development.Highlights
This study examined associations between the coparenting relationship and toddlers' adaptive functioning.
The coparenting relationship was assessed via parental self‐reports and observations during triadic family play interactions. Toddlers' adaptive functioning was assessed using maternal reports. Findings indicated a negative relationship between undermining coparenting and toddlers' adaptive skills.
The coparenting relationship is foundational to young children's development. More research in this area is required to disentangle the various pathways by which this family sub‐system can influence toddlers' developmental outcomes. This can help in future intervention planning for enhancing the coparenting relationship.
Apigenin ameliorates oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage induced by multiwall carbon nanotubes in rat kidney mitochondria
Authors: Zamani Fatemeh , Samiei Fatemeh , Mousavi Zahra , Azari Mansour Rezazadeh , Seydi Enayatollah , Pourahmad Jalal 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe toxicity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) toward the mitochondria of the kidney is not fully recognized and still needs further research. Apigenin (APG) is known as a flavonoid compound and natural antioxidant. The purpose of this study was to assess the ameliorative role of APG against multiwall CNT (MWCNT)‐induced kidney toxicity in rats. The animals were administrated with APG (10 mg/kg) for 2 weeks and then were exposed to MWCNTs (5 mg/m3) in pure and impure forms (10 and 100 nm) for 5 h/day and 5 days/week. Then, mitochondria were isolated from the kidney tissue and mitochondrial toxicity parameters were measured. Decreases in succinate dehydrogenase activity have been reported in all groups exposed to MWCNTs. Results indicated that MWCNTs in both forms and sizes were able to increase the generation of reactive oxygen species, decline mitochondrial membrane potential, induce mitochondrial swelling, and release cytochrome c in isolated kidney mitochondria. The pretreatment of APG decreased all the abovementioned mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress parameters induced by both pure and impure MWCNTs. Our results showed that MWCNTs have the ability to enter the body, subsequently, cross cellular barriers, and reach the kidney as a sensitive organ, which can result in mitochondrial damage in kidney cells including renal tubular cells. In addition, APG can be an effective nutritional antioxidant regimen against MWCNT‐induced kidney damage.
Serum lipids and prostate cancer
Authors: Garrido Manuel M. , Marta José C. , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Pinheiro Luís C. , Guimarães João T. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundConflicting results are found in the literature relating serum lipids levels and prostate cancer. Some results imply a relationship between them; others contradict this association. The purpose of this study was to investigate a possible association between serum lipids levels and prostate cancer, at time of diagnosis.MethodsWe measured serum levels of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides in 237 patients submitted to a prostate biopsy, with PSA between 2 and 10 ng/ml. Patients without cancer at biopsy were used as controls, and the others were considered as cases. No information about lipid‐lowering therapy, including statins, was available neither in cases nor in controls. Cases were divided into risk groups, according to the disease severity, based on staging. Lipids levels were compared between groups, using parametric and nonparametric tests. Logistic regression analysis and odds ratios were calculated.ResultsLDL and total cholesterol levels were lower in patients with cancer, with the difference being statistically significant for LDL cholesterol (p = 0.010) and borderline for total cholesterol (p = 0.050). No significant differences were found between the several risk groups. Odds ratios for low LDL cholesterol (<130 mg/dl) and low total cholesterol (<200 mg/dl), with prostate cancer as the outcome, were 1.983 and 1.703, respectively. There were no significant differences between cases and controls for the other lipids.ConclusionLower LDL cholesterol (<130 mg/dl) and lower total cholesterol (<200 mg/dl) serum levels seem to associate with prostate cancer, at time of diagnosis.