bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The key role of increased fine sediment loading in shaping macroinvertebrate communities along a multiple stressor gradient in a Eurasian steppe river (Kharaa River, Mongolia)
Authors: Schäffer Michael , Hellmann Claudia , Avlyush Saulyegul , Borchardt Dietrich
Published: December 2019

Aquatic communities across the Eurasian steppe face increasing anthropogenic pressures due to rapid population growth, catchment‐wide land‐use changes, and climate change. The particular type, intensity, overlay, and legacy of impacts along longitudinal gradients of Eurasian river networks provide a unique setting to investigate ecological responses in identifiable multiple stressor environments. We studied macroinvertebrate communities along the Kharaa River, Mongolia, which display a distinct, downstream gradient of moderate nutrient enrichment, disturbed bank morphology, reduced riparian vegetation, elevated turbidity, increased fine sediment substrate proportions, and fine sediment intrusion into the hyporheic zone. Within the encountered ranges of physical and chemical environmental factors (TP 0.02–0.09  mg/L, TN 0.33–0.96  mg/L, conductivity 167–322 µS/cm, formazin nephelometric units 0.62–5.43) and hyporheic fine sediment intrusion (0.9–1.6 g dry weight [DW]·L−1·day−1) the population densities and biomass of macroinvertebrates were high (5,313 ± 410 individuals/m2and 2,656 ± 152 mg DW/m2) and notably stable. In contrast, macroinvertebrate community structure showed strong and statistically significant negative linear relationships (Pearson'sr) with turbidity, that is, for taxa richness (r = −.83), Shannon index of diversity (r = −.89), Evenness (r = −.86), the relative abundance of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) individuals (r = −.93) and relative biomass of hard substrate colonizers (r = −.86). The relative biomasses of fine substrate colonizers, as well as Chironomidae and Oligochaeta (bothr = .76), were positively correlated with mean turbidity values. In addition, the Proportion of Sediment‐sensitive Invertebrates (PSI) methodology was adjusted for local application and the resulting index scores followed a similar pattern, with PSI also being significantly correlated (r = .66) with the relative abundance of EPT individuals, the latter being the most sensitive macroinvertebrate community index. We conclude that fine sediment load is the key factor for shaping macroinvertebrate community structure in the multistressor setting of the Kharaa River followed by hydromorphological habitat complexity determined by shear stress, substrate, and grain size distributions. We suggest that the implementation of effective regional management strategies aiming at the reduction of fine sediment pollution should be given the highest priority.
Neuroprotective effects of curcumin through autophagy modulation
Authors: Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Read Morgayn I. , Barreto George E. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: December 2019

Autophagy is a highly conserved cellular degradation process involving lysosomal degradation for the turnover of proteins, protein complexes, and organelles. Defects in autophagy produces impaired intercellular communication and have subsequently been shown to be associated with pathological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases. Curcumin is a polyphenol found in the rhizome of Curcuma longa, which has been shown to exert health benefits, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anticancer effects. There is increasing evidence in the literature revealing that autophagy modulation may provide neuroprotective effects. In light of this, our current review aims to address recent advances in the neuroprotective role of curcumin‐induced autophagy modulation, specifically with a particular focus on its effects in Alexander disease, Alzheimer's disease, ischemia stroke, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson's disease.
Coordination bonding in dicopper and dichromium tetrakis(μ‐acetato)‐diaqua complexes: Nature, strength, length, and topology
Authors: Malček Michal , Vénosová Barbora , Puškárová Ingrid , Kožíšek Jozef , Gall Marián , Bučinský Lukáš
Published: December 2019

Geometry optimization, energetics, electronic structure, and topology of electron density of dicopper (I) and dichromium (II) tetrakis(μ‐acetato)‐diaqua complexes are studied focusing on the metal–metal interactions. The performance of broken symmetry (BS) single‐determinant ab initio (Hartree–Fock, Møller–Plesset perturbation theory to the second and third orders, coupled clusters singles and doubles) and density functional theory (BLYP, B3LYP, B3LYP‐D3, B2PLYP, MPW2PLYP) methods is compared to multideterminant ab initio (CASSCF, NEVPT2) methods as well as to the multipole model of charge density from a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction experiment (Herich et al., Acta Cryst. 2018, B74, 681–692). In vacuo DFT geometry optimizations (improper axial water ligand orientation) are compared against the periodic ones. The singlet state is found to be energetically preferred.Jcoupling of (I) becomes underestimated for all ab initio methods used, when compared to experiment. It is concluded that the strength of the direct M─M interactions correlates closely with theJcoupling magnitude at a given level of theory. The double potential well character of(II)and of the dehydrated form of(II)are considered with respect to the Cr─Cr distance. The physical effective bond order of the metal–metal interaction is small (below 0.1e) in (I) and moderate (0.4e) in (II). The CASSCF results overestimate the electron density of the metal–metal bond critical point by 20% and 50% in (I) and (II), respectively, when compared to the multipole model. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Personalized Management of Chemotherapy‐Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Based on a Patient Reported Outcome: CALGB 40502 (Alliance)
Authors: Sharma Manish R. , Mehrotra Shailly , Gray Elizabeth , Wu Kehua , Barry William T. , Hudis Clifford , Winer Eric P. , Lyss Alan P. , Toppmeyer Deborah L. , Moreno‐Aspitia Alvaro , Lad Thomas E. , Velasco Mario , Overmoyer Beth , Rugo Hope S. , Ratain Mark J. , Gobburu Jogarao V.
Published: December 2019

Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (henceforth, neuropathy) is often dose limiting and is generally managed by empirical dose modifications. We aimed to (1) identify an early time point that is predictive of future neuropathy using a patient‐reported outcome and (2) propose a dose‐adjustment algorithm based on simulated data to manage neuropathy. In previous work, a dose‐neuropathy model was developed using dosing and patient‐reported outcome data from Cancer and Leukemia Group B 40502 (Alliance), a randomized phase III trial of paclitaxel, nanoparticle albumin–bound paclitaxel or ixabepilone as first‐line chemotherapy for locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer. In the current work, an early time point that is predictive of the future severity of neuropathy was identified based on predictive accuracy of the model. Using the early data and model parameters, simulations were conducted to propose a dose‐adjustment algorithm for the prospective management of neuropathy in individual patients. The end of the first 3 cycles (12 weeks) was identified as the early time point based on a predictive accuracy of 75% for the neuropathy score after 6 cycles. For paclitaxel, nanoparticle albumin–bound paclitaxel, and ixabepilone, simulations with the proposed dose‐adjustment algorithm resulted in 61%, 48%, and 35% fewer patients, respectively, with neuropathy score ≥8 after 6 cycles compared to no dose adjustment. We conclude that early patient‐reported outcome data on neuropathy can be used to guide dose adjustments in individual patients that reduce the severity of future neuropathy. Prospective validation of this approach should be undertaken in future studies.
Conversion of glycerol to dihydroxyacetone over Au catalysts on various supports
Authors: Ke Yihu , Li Xiaohua , Li Jifan , Liu Chun‐Ling , Xu Chunli , Dong Wen‐Sheng
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Glycerol, which is a coproduct of biodiesel production, has been identified as a key platform compound for producing various valuable chemicals. The selective catalytic oxidation of glycerol to dihydroxyacetone is very attractive.

RESULTS

A series of Au catalysts supported on metallic oxides, i.e. ZnO, CuO, Al2O3, Fe2O3 and NiO, were studied for selective catalytic oxidation of glycerol to dihydroxyacetone under base‐free conditions. Among the catalysts, Au/CuO showed the best catalytic activity (glycerol conversion of 89% and dihydroxyacetone selectivity of 82.6% at 80 °C under 10 bar of O2), followed by Au/ZnO ≫ Au/NiO > Au/Al2O3 ≈ Au/CuO‐SD ≈ Au/Fe2O3. The catalytic behaviors of these supported Au catalysts varied depending on the Au particle size, Au oxidation state, Au–support interactions and lattice oxygen reducibility.

CONCLUSION

The main reasons for the high catalytic activity of Au/CuO are as follows. Firstly, the catalyst has small metallic Au particles, which are more active in cleavage of the secondary CH bond in glycerol molecules. Secondly, the interactions between Au and CuO facilitate lattice oxygen reduction, and this increases oxygen mobility, which may promote regeneration of Au–support perimeter active sites by gaseous oxygen. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Polyhydroxyalkanoate production using two‐stage continuous stirred tank activated sludge systems with glycerol as a carbon source
Authors: Heepkaew Pimsiri , Suwannasilp Benjaporn Boonchayaanant
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) is a biopolymer that can be used as a biodegradable plastic. The incorporation of PHA production into wastewater treatment processes is a promising strategy for resource recovery. This study investigated PHA production in two‐stage continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR)‐activated sludge (AS) systems fed with synthetic wastewater containing glycerol. The effects of the hydraulic retention time (HRT) ratios of the first and the second stages, which reflects the feast/famine ratio, at 0.04, 0.15, and 0.33 were examined.

RESULTS

The PHA accumulation and PHA consumption patterns under feast/famine conditions were successfully achieved in systems operated at HRT ratios of 0.04, 0.15, and 0.33 with influent glycerol concentrations of 3000 mg COD/L. Then, the sludge from these systems was tested for PHA accumulation in fed‐batch reactors. Maximum PHA contents of 21.8 wt%, 13.1 wt%, and 8.7 wt% were obtained for the sludge from the systems operated at HRT ratios of 0.04, 0.15, and 0.33, respectively. From the microbial community analysis via 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing (MiSeq, Illumina), the relative abundance of betaproteobacteria decreased, whereas the relative abundances of alphaproteobacteria and gammaproteobacteria increased after cultivation in the two‐stage CSTR AS systems.

CONCLUSION

The highest PHA accumulation was achieved at the lowest HRT ratio of the first and the second stages in the two‐stage CSTR AS systems. This study serves as an example of integrating PHA production into wastewater treatment systems, which enables us to apply the concept of resource recovery from wastewater. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Ionic liquids removal by sequential photocatalytic and biological oxidation
Authors: Gomez‐Herrero E , Tobajas M , Rodriguez JJ , Mohedano AF
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

The industrial application of ionic liquids (ILs) can induce the generation of wastewater and their release into the aquatic media. ILs can be efficiently removed by advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), which are expensive to implement. An alternative, using solar photocatalysis and biological degradation in combination, was used here to remove 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride (HmimCl) and 1‐butyl‐4‐methylpyridinium chloride (BmpyrCl). The chemical pretreatment allowed the ILs to be converted into by‐products for easier biodegradation in a sequential batch reactor (SBR).

RESULTS

Photocatalytic degradation, using 0.25 g TiO2 L−1 and 600 W m−2 solar radiation for 24 h, allowed a complete ILs removal and a partial mineralization of the organic matter, 28% for Bmpyr+ and 35% for Hmim+. A degradation pathway based on the by‐products identified was proposed for each IL. The reaction effluents were submitted to a biological treatment in an SBR, using organic loading rates of 0.18–0.2 kg COD kg−1 VSS d−1 and a biomass concentration of 3.5 g VSS L−1 in 8 h cycles. The combined treatment allowed highly efficient removal of organic matter [total organic carbon (TOC) conversion exceeded 75% for HmimCl and 78% for BmpyrCl].

CONCLUSION

Solar photocatalytic oxidation efficiently removed ILs and produced more biodegradable and less ecotoxic effluents. Biological oxidation increased TOC and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal to more than 75% for the overall treatment. Combining solar photocatalysis and biological degradation therefore provided an effective system for IL removal. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
CD226 deficiency on regulatory T cells aggravates renal fibrosis via up-regulation of Th2 cytokines through miR-340
Authors: Mu Yang , Zhang Jinxue , Liu Yongming , Ma Jingchang , Jiang Dongxu , Zhang Xuexin , Yi Xin , Cheng Kun , Shen Shen , Yang Yixin , Zhuang Ran , Zhang Yuan
Published: December 2019

In this study, we observed that deletion of CD226 on regulatory T cells (Tregs) precedes renal fibrosis in a mouse unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model. First, we generated Treg-specific CD226 gene knockout mice (CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre). Next, CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre mice and Foxp3YFP-Cre control mice were subjected to UUO surgery. Pathologic analysis and Sirius red and Masson's trichrome staining showed that the kidneys of CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre mice following UUO showed much more severe interstitial fibrosis than Foxp3YFP-Cre control mice at days 10 and 20. Additionally, CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre mice showed increased fibronectin expression, as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. Although Treg cell-restricted CD226 deficiency showed increased Foxp3+ expression, expression of the cell surface functional molecule CD103 was significantly reduced, indicating impaired homeostasis in the Tregs of CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre mice. To better understand CD226 function, RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis was conducted in Tregs isolated from CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre and Foxp3YFP-Cre mice. RNA-Seq data showed that the helper T cell (Th) 2-related cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 were significantly up-regulated in CD226 deficient Tregs. In addition, mRNA analysis of kidney samples from the mice following UUO by qPCR also showed increased IL-4 and IL-10 expression in CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre mice, as well as elevated TGF-β1 levels, indicating that CD226 deficiency in Tregs resulted in the acquisition of the ability to produce Th2 cytokines. Finally, we found that microRNA-340 (miR-340), which was down-regulated in Tregs isolated from CD226fl/fl Foxp3YFP-Cre mice, directly regulated IL-4 gene expression in vitro. These data suggest that the promotion of CD226 signaling on Tregs is a therapeutic target for renal disease.
An ancestral variant causing type I xanthinuria in Turkmen and Arab families is predicted to prevail in the Afro‐Asian stone‐forming belt
Authors: Peretz Hava , Korostishevsky Michael , Steinberg David M. , Kabha Mustafa , Usher Sali , Krause Irit , Shalev Hannah , Landau Daniel , Levartovsky David
Published: December 2019

Classical xanthinuria is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder characterized by lack of xanthine dehydrogenase activity that often manifests as xanthine urolithiasis and risk of drug toxicity. Variants in the XDH or HMCS gene underlie classical xanthinuria type I and type II, respectively. Here we present two Israeli Arab families affected by type I xanthinuria in whom a c.2164A>T (Lys722Ter) variant in the XDH gene, previously reported in a Turkish family of Turkmen origin, was identified. Analysis of polymorphic markers surrounding the variant site revealed common haplotypes spanning 0.6 Mbp shared by all three, and 1.7 Mbp shared by two of the studied families. By applying Bayesian methods to a simple model of crossover events through generations in the chromosomes carrying the variant, the most recent common ancestor of these families was found to be 179 (95% credible limit 70) generations old. The estimated antiquity of the variant, the historical genealogy of the affected families and the history and present day dispersion of their people strongly suggest prevalence of this variant in the Afro‐Asian stone‐forming belt. As far as we are aware, this is a first report of an ancient variant causing xanthinuria with potential wide geographical dispersion.
Correlation of molecular and morphologic effects of thermoembolization in a swine model using mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Guo Chunxiao , Baluya Dodge L. , Thompson Emily A. , Whitley Elizabeth M. , Cressman Erik N.K.
Published: December 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a growing worldwide problem with a high mortality rate. This malignancy does not respond well to chemotherapy, and most patients present late in their disease at which time surgery is no longer an option. Over the past three decades, minimally invasive methods have evolved to treat unresectable disease and prolong survival. Intra‐arterial embolization techniques are used for large or multiple tumors but have distressingly high levels of local recurrence and can be costly to implement. A new method called thermoembolization was recently reported, which destroys target tissue by combining reactive exothermic chemistry with an extreme local change in pH and ischemia. Described herein are experiments performed using this technique in vivo in a swine model. A microcatheter was advanced under fluoroscopic guidance into a branch of the hepatic artery to deliver a targeted dose of dichloroacetyl chloride dissolved in ethiodized oil into the liver. The following day, the animals were imaged by computed tomography and euthanized. Assessing the reaction product distribution and establishing a correlation with the effects are important for understanding the effects. This presented a significant challenge, however, as the reagent used does not contain a chromophore and is not otherwise readily detectable. Mass spectrometry imaging was employed to determine spatial distribution in treated samples. Additional insights on the biology were obtained by correlating the results with histology, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. The results are encouraging and may lead to a therapy with less local recurrence and improved overall survival for patients with this disease.
Influenza B viral load analysis in patients with acute respiratory infection from a tertiary hospital in Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues Guimarães Alves Vitória , Kleber de Souza Luna Luciano , Santiago Cruz Jessica , Helena Perosa Ana , Bellei Nancy
Published: December 2019

Currently, 2 genotypes of Influenza B viruses (IFB) are cocirculating in humans: Victoria (VIC) and Yamagata (YAM). Infection and viral load (VL) were analyzed in 105 genotyped IFB (59 VIC and 46 YAM) out of 3452 respiratory samples from immunodepressed (ID), immunocompetent (IC) including outpatients (OP) and hospitalized patients (HP) attended during 2001‐2013 at São Paulo Hospital. VL (Log10 RNA copies/mL) calculation was possible in 78 samples (47 VIC, 31 YAM). The age group of 12 to 18 years presented the highest detection (14.13%). Rates of infection among groups were of 3.67% (IC), 1.68% (ID), 3.50% (OP), 0.6% (HP), and VLs varied from 2.8 to 10.13 with no difference regarding age, immune status, and disease severity. From 10 OP vaccinated against influenza, 8 (7 children, 1 ID) received a matching strain shot (VIC), and 2 a monovalent influenza A H1N1pdm09. Those patients presented a VL of 6.31 ± 1.62 (mean ± SD). IFB infection rates follow an age pattern, but VL seems not to be related to frequency or clinical outcome. IFB patients with previous immunization could point to some protection for VIC infections since there was no HP. Other immunological aspects, such as lineage infection immune priming, previous infections, and vaccinations, should be further investigated.
Relationship of the Southeast Asian summer monsoon and Mascarene High to the tropical cyclone activity in the western North Pacific
Authors: Choi Jae‐Won , Kim Hae‐Dong
Published: December 2019

In the present study, a highly positive correlation between the western North Pacific tropical cyclone (TC) genesis frequency and the Southeast Asian summer monsoon (SASM) was found during the June–August period. In order to examine the cause of the positive correlation between the two variables, the 14 years with the highest SASM index (positive SASM years) and the 14 years with the lowest SASM index (negative SASM years) were selected from a total of 39 years (1977–2015) and the mean difference between the two periods was analysed. In the positive SASM years, more TCs were generated in most of the western North Pacific region and tended to move in a northerly direction from the far northeastern sea of the Philippines towards Korea via the East China Sea. In the negative SASM years, TCs moved westward from the eastern sea of the Philippine to the southern coast of China and the Indochinese Peninsula via the South China Sea. A similar result is found in further comparisons in which years with strong El Niño‐Southern Oscillations are removed. Anomalous westerlies from the Mascarene High moved eastward, thereby forming anomalous cyclonic circulations in the western North Pacific. Thus, the Mascarene High played a decisive role in strengthening anomalous cyclonic circulations in the western North Pacific. This finding was verified by examining various environmental factors that affected TC genesis and the correlation analyses between the 850‐hPa geopotential height and the western North Pacific TC genesis frequency during the June–August period in addition to an analysis of the velocity potential and divergent winds.
Effect of the moisture equilibrium process on the expansion behavior of instant controlled pressure drop (DIC) drying of dried apple cubes
Authors: Li Xiao , Bi Jinfeng , Jin Xin , Wu Xinye , Lyu Jian , Li Xuan , Hu Lina
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Recently, consumers' demand on high quality dried fruit or vegetable products have increased dramatically. The instant controlled pressure drop (DIC) dried products have attracted consumers' attention due to its unique sensory characteristics. The product quality, especially the appearance quality of the DIC products, is influenced closely by water status and water distribution in the material, which is rarely reported in the literatures. In this study, a comparison system for the apple cubes with or without the moisture equilibrium process (MEP) was established to explain the effect of the MEP on the expansion behavior of the DIC dried apple cube.

RESULTS

The results showed that the MEP could induce a more homogenous spatial distribution of water in the semi‐dried apple cube after pre‐drying. Meanwhile, the MEP treated and DIC dried apple cubes showed better quality in terms of the appearance and texture properties including high porosity (71.77%), large pores (maximum pore size of 1.55 mm), and thin pore walls (pore wall thickness of 0.079 mm).

CONCLUSION

The MEP was approved to be a compulsory treatment to achieve the DIC dried apple cubes with good expansion behavior. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Interaction and multi‐objective effects of multiple non‐thermal treatments of sour cherry juice: pesticide removal, microbial inactivation, and quality preservation
Authors: Akdemir Evrendilek Gulsun , Keskin Eda , Golge Ozgur
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

The consumption of pesticide‐contaminated sour cherries as fruit or juice has become a major health concern, and so the search for alternative processing technologies, such as pulsed electric fields (PEF), ozone (O), and ultrasonication (US) has intensified. The objectives of this experimental study of sour cherry juice were fourfold: (1) to quantify the removal efficiency of new processing technologies (PEF, O, US), and their combinations, for the pesticides chlorpyrifos ethyl, τ‐fluvalinate, cyprodinil, pyraclostrobin, and malathion; (2) to detect their impact on physical, bioactive, and sensory properties; (3) to determine their microbial inactivation levels for Escherichia coli O157:H7, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas syringae subs. Syringae, and Penicillum expansum; and (4) to jointly optimize multiple responses of physical, quality, and sensory properties, pesticides, and microbial inactivation.

RESULTS

Except for all the O treatments, the physical, bioactive and sensory properties of sour cherry juice were not adversely affected by the treatments. The joint optimization suggested PEF1 (24.7 kV cm−1 for 327 μs), PEF2 (24.7 kV cm−1 for 655 μs), PEF2 + O + US, US, and PEF2 + O as the five best treatments. PEF2 + O + US best achieved both pesticide removal and microbial inactivation.

CONCLUSION

PEF2 + O + US provided promising reductions in pesticide and microbial loads. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Residue dissipation and dietary exposure risk assessment of methoxyfenozide in cauliflower and tea via modified QuEChERS using UPLC/MS/MS
Authors: Sun Hezhi , Zhou Li , Zhang Xinzhong , Luo Fengjian , Yang Mei , Wang Xinru , Lou Zhengyun , Chen ZongMao
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Methoxyfenozide possesses efficacy against a variety of lepidopteron pests, including the major pests in cauliflower and tea, so it is of great importance to generalize the practical use of methoxyfenozide in the field.

RESULTS

An efficient method was developed and validated in both vegetable matrix and extract‐rich matrix (cauliflower and tea) using modified QuEChERS combined with UPLC/MS/MS analysis. The recoveries in cauliflower, made tea and tea shoots ranged from 94.5 to 108.0%, from 85.0 to 91.6% and from 77.3 to 82.0% respectively, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) below 17.3% in all cases. The field results showed that methoxyfenozide dissipated in cauliflower with half‐life (t1/2) at 2.5–3.5 days and in tea with t1/2 at 1.2 days. Combining the above experimental data and statistical food intake values, the risk quotient (RQ) values were significantly lower than 1.

CONCLUSION

The quantification method of methoxyfenozide in cauliflower or tea has not been established until this study. The dissipation and dietary exposure risk assessment of methoxyfenozide in cauliflower and tea were investigated in the field. Methoxyfenozide dissipated rapidly in cauliflower despite different climates, and it dissipated faster in tea. The dietary risk of methoxyfenozide through cauliflower or tea was negligible to humans. This study not only provides guidance for the safe use of methoxyfenozide but also serves as a reference for the establishment of maximum residue limits (MRLs) in China. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of temperature stress on the accumulation of ascorbic acid and folates in sweet corn (Zea mays L.) seedlings
Authors: Xiang Nan , Hu Jianguang , Wen Tianxiang , Brennan Margaret Anne , Brennan Charles Stephen , Guo Xinbo
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Extreme temperatures are among the primary abiotic stresses that affect plant growth and development. Ascorbic acid (AsA) is an efficient antioxidant for scavenging relative oxygen species accumulated under stress. Folates play a significant role in DNA synthesis and protect plants against oxidative stress. Sweet corn (Zea mays L.), a crop grown worldwide, is sensitive to extreme temperatures at seedling stage, which may cause yield loss. This study was conducted to explore the biosynthetic regulative mechanism of AsA and folates in sweet corn seedlings under temperature stress.

RESULTS

The AsA and folate composition and relative gene expression in sweet corn seedlings grown under different temperature stresses (10, 25, and 40 °C) were evaluated. The imposition of temperature stress altered the AsA content mainly by modulating the expression of ZmDHAR, whose encoded enzyme dehydroascorbic reductase (DHAR) is essential in the AsA recycle pathway. Low temperature stress raised the expressions of relative genes, leading to folate accumulation. High temperature stress modulated the folate content by influencing the expression of the correspondence gene for aminodeoxychorismate synthase, ZmADCS, as well as downstream genes that connected with DNA methylation.

CONCLUSION

These results provided a theoretical basis, at a genetic level, for understanding the stress responses mechanism in sweet corn seedlings, offering guidance for sweet corn cultivation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Autologous fibroblasts for vocal scars and age‐related atrophy: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ma Yue , Long Jennifer , Amin Milan R. , Branski Ryan C. , Damrose Edward J. , Sung Chih‐Kwang , Achlatis Stratos , Kearney Ann , Chhetri Dinesh K.
Published: December 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess the safety and efficacy of autologous cultured fibroblasts (ACFs) to treat dysphonia related to vocal fold scar and age‐related vocal atrophy (ARVA).

Study Design

Randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, multi‐institutional, phase II trial.

Methods

ACFs were expanded from punch biopsies of the postauricular skin in each subject; randomization was 2:1 (treatment vs. placebo). Three injections of 1–2 × 107 cells or placebo saline was performed at 4‐week intervals for each vocal fold. Follow‐up was performed at 4, 8, and 12 months. The primary outcome was improved mucosal waves. Secondary outcomes included Voice Handicap Index (VHI)‐30, patient reported voice quality outcomes, and perceptual analysis of voice.

Results

Fifteen subjects received ACF and six received saline injections. At 4, 8, and 12 months after ACF treatments, a significant improvement in mucosal wave grade relative to baseline was observed in both vocal scar and ARVA groups. Relative to control group, mucosal waves were significantly improved in the ARVA group at 4 and 8 months. Perceptual analysis significantly improved in the vocal scar group 12 months after ACF treatments compared to controls. Vocal scar group reported significantly improved vocal quality from baseline. VHI and expert rater voice grade improved in both groups, but did not achieve significance. No adverse events related to fibroblast injections were observed.

Conclusions

In this cohort, injection of ACFs into the vocal fold lamina propria (LP) was safe and significantly improved mucosal waves in patients with vocal scar and ARVA. ACF may hold promise to reconstruct the LP.

Level of Evidence

1 Laryngoscope, 130:2650–2658, 2020
Networked health care: Rethinking value creation in learning health care systems
Authors: Fjeldstad Øystein D. , Johnson Julie K. , Margolis Peter A. , Seid Michael , Höglund Pär , Batalden Paul B.
Published: December 2019

Creating better value in health care service today is very challenging. The social pressure to do so is real for every health care system and its leadership. Real benefit has been achieved in manufacturing sector work by the use of “value‐chain” thinking, which assumes that the work is a series of linked processes necessary to make a product. For those activities in health care systems that are similar, this model may be very helpful. Attempts to “install” the value chain widely in health care systems have, however, been frustrating. As a result, well‐meaning leaders seeking better value have resorted to programs of cost reduction, rather than service redesign. Professionals have not been very happy or willing participants. The work of health care service invites an expanded model of value creation, one that better matches the work. This paper proposes a networked architecture that can mobilize and integrate the resources of health care professionals, interested patients, family, and other community members in the delivery and improvement of health care systems. It also suggests how this value‐creation architecture might contribute to research and the development of new knowledge. Two cases illustrate the proposed architecture and its implications for system design and practice, technology development, and roles and responsibilities of all actors involved in health care systems. We believe that this model better fits the need of making and improving health care services. This expanded understanding of how value is created invites attention by senior leaders, by those attempting to facilitate the improvement of current systems, by patients and clinicians involved in the daily work of health care service coproduction, by those charged with the preparation and formation of future professionals, by those who measure and conduct research in health care services, and by those leading policy, payment, and reimbursement systems.
Long‐Pulsed Nd:YAG (1,064 nm) Laser Versus Q‐Switched Nd:YAG (1,064 nm) Laser for Treatment of Onychomycosis
Authors: Elmorsy Eman H. , Abou Khadr Nouran A. , Taha Alsayeda A.A. , Abdel Aziz Doaa M.
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

To compare the efficacy of the long‐pulsed Nd:YAG (1,064 nm) laser versus the Q‐Switched Nd:YAG (1,064 nm) laser in treatment of onychomycosis.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

This is a prospective cohort study. It was carried out on 20 patients with clinical and mycological evidence of onychomycosis who were randomly assigned into two groups; group I: included 10 patients treated with biweekly sessions of long‐pulsed Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser and group II; included 10 patients treated with monthly sessions of Q‐Switched Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser. The assessment was done using proximal nail measurement and microscopic examination using 10–20% potassium hydroxide solution and culture on Sabouraud's dextrose agar. All patients were followed up for 6 months after the last treatment session.

Results

Fungal isolates in the present study were grouped into yeast in 50%, non‐dermatophyte moulds in 10%, while dermatophyte infection was detected in 40%. Each group showed a statistically significant improvement in proximal nail plate measurements with no statistically significant difference between both groups. Mycological cure was only achieved in 40% of group I and 30% of group II. Patient satisfaction was higher in group II.

Conclusions

Both long‐pulsed Nd:YAG (1064 nm) and Q‐Switched Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser systems can be used as a safe and effective modality in the treatment of onychomycosis, particularly in patients who refuse or have a contraindication to oral antifungal treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. 00:00–00, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the Future Design of Bio‐Inspired Polyetheretherketone Dental Implants
Authors: Knaus Jennifer , Schaffarczyk Dietmar , Cölfen Helmut
Published: December 2019

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a promising implant material because of its excellent mechanical characteristics. Although this polymer is a standard material in spinal applications, PEEK is not in use in the manufacturing of dental implants, where titanium is still the most‐used material. This may be caused by its relative bio‐inertness. By the use of various surface modification techniques, efforts have been made to enhance its osseointegrative characteristics to enable the polymer to be used in dentistry. In this feature paper, the state‐of‐the‐art for dental implants is given and different surface modification techniques of PEEK are discussed. The focus will lie on a covalently attached surface layer mimicking natural bone. The usage of such covalently anchored biomimetic composite materials combines many advantageous properties: A biocompatible organic matrix and a mineral component provide the cells with a surrounding close to natural bone. Bone‐related cells may not recognize the implant as a foreign body and therefore, may heal and integrate faster and more firmly. Because neither metal‐based nor ceramics are ideal material candidates for a dental implant, the combination of PEEK and a covalently anchored mineralized biopolymer layer may be the start of the desired evolution in dental surgery.
Pyrene Functionalized Mechanochromic Elastomer with Switchable White Fluorescence
Authors: Wang Taisheng , Zhang Na , Ge Yuanmeng , Wang Changchun , Hang Zusheng , Zhang Zewu
Published: December 2019

Mechanochromic polymers that change their photophysical properties on activation by mechanical force are now widely studied, which can signal mechanical stress and visualize material damage ahead of structure failure. However, white‐light‐emitting mechanochromic materials are still very rare. Here, a pyrene group is introduced into a mechanochromic elastomer. A blue‐green fluorescence is exhibited in the original elastomer through rational control of the aggregation degree of pyrene groups. During continuous stretching, due to the “closed” form of rhodamine‐based mechanophore changing into “opened” form, a remarkable white fluorescence can be seen in this process (chromaticity coordinate: x = 0.31, y = 0.31). In the processes of stretching and relaxing, an obvious red shift in fluorescence is detected by the naked eye, which is useful to monitor transient stress in polymer materials. The present study provides a new guideline of the molecular structure design for white‐light emitting mechanochromic materials.
Generalised pseudointersections
Authors: Schilhan Jonathan
Published: December 2019

This paper is a compilation of results originating in the author's master thesis. We give a useful characterization of the generalized bounding and dominating numbers, and . We show that when . And we prove a higher analogue of Bell's theorem stating that is equivalent to ‐centered).
A polarization‐stable frequency selective rasorber with miniaturized elements and wideband absorbing properties
Authors: Liu Longhua , Zhai Huiqing , Hu Diwei , Ren Shuang
Published: December 2019

A polarization‐stable frequency selective rasorber (FSR) is proposed in this article, behaving as a bandpass filter at transmission bands from 2.08 GHz to 2.82 GHz, while performing as an absorber over a wide absorption band from 7.68 GHz to 21.7 GHz. The desired transmission band is obtained by a multilayer frequency selective surface (FSS) realized through interdigital patch layer and meandering inductive wire grid. Meanwhile, the wide absorption band is achieved by using the design of miniaturized lossy layer and harmonic‐suppressed operation in FSS. The symmetry and miniaturization design make the FSR perform satisfactory stability of polarizations and incident angles. Furthermore, due to its small unit‐cell dimension (0.041λ0 × 0.041λ0 × 0.106λ0, where λ0 is the free‐space wavelength at the resonant frequency), the presented FSR can effectively avoid the interference of the grating lobes on radar cross section reduction.
NANOG is required to form the epiblast and maintain pluripotency in the bovine embryo
Authors: Ortega M. Sofia , Kelleher Andrew M. , O'Neil Eleanore , Benne Joshua , Cecil Raissa , Spencer Thomas E.
Published: December 2019

During preimplantation development, the embryo undergoes two consecutive lineages specifications. The first cell fate decision determines which cells give rise to the trophectoderm (TE) and the inner cell mass (ICM). Subsequently, the ICM differentiates into hypoblast and epiblast, the latter giving rise to the embryo proper. The transcription factors that govern these cell fate decisions have been extensively studied in the mouse, but are still poorly understood in other mammalian species. In the present study, the role of NANOG in the formation of the epiblast and maintenance of pluripotency in the bovine embryo was investigated. Using a CRISPR‐Cas9 approach, guide RNAs were designed to target exon 2, resulting in a functional deletion of bovine NANOG at the zygote stage. Disruption of NANOG resulted in the embryos that form a blastocoel and an ICM composed of hypoblast cells. Furthermore, NANOG‐null embryos showed lower expression of epiblast cell markers SOX2 and HA2AFZ, and hypoblast marker GATA6; without affecting the expression of TE markers CDX2 and KRT8. Results indicate that NANOG, has no apparent role in segregation or maintenance of the TE, but it is required to derive and maintain the pluripotent epiblast and during the second lineage commitment in the bovine embryo.
“Posterior Tibial Nerve” or “Tibial Nerve”? Improving the reporting in health papers
Authors: Moretti Eduarda , da Silva Ivson Bezerra , Boaviagem Alessandra , Barbosa Leila , de Lima Anna Myrna Jaguaribe , Lemos Andrea
Published: December 2019

Aims

The primary objective of this study is to identify which term is the most appropriate to use according to anatomical nomenclature: “posterior tibial nerve” or “tibial nerve.” Furthermore, this paper intends to show how the use of these terms in papers indexed in important health databases is numerous and to describe the anatomical characteristics of such nerve, to improve future scientific publications.

Methods

This is a descriptive study about the importance of standardizing the use of the terms “posterior tibial nerve” and “tibial nerve” and its anatomy. It comprises three phases: the first is a search in the main databases to identify the use of the terms “posterior tibial nerve” and “tibial nerve.” The second phase refers to the consultation of international anatomical terminology to identify the most appropriate term to refer to the nerve, while the third phase is related to the study of the anatomy of this nerve.

Results

The term “tibial nerve” is more commonly used, but the use of the term “posterior tibial nerve” is still very substantial. According to international anatomical terminology, the correct term is “tibial nerve,” which is a branch of the sciatic nerve.

Conclusions

“Tibial nerve” is the term standardized by international anatomical terminology. The use of terms in accordance with Terminologia Anatomica is important to facilitate the process of teaching and learning, as well as to improve the reporting and interpretation of papers regarding health, and the evidence‐based clinical practice.
Obesity Predicts Liver Function Testing and Abnormal Liver Results
Authors: Li Wenhao , Homer Kate , Hull Sally , Boomla Kambiz , Robson John , Alazawi William
Published: December 2019

Objective

Abnormal liver function tests in children and young people (CYP) predict a greater burden of liver disease in adulthood, especially in the context of obesity. This study aimed to determine whether obesity and metabolic risk factors predict liver function testing and abnormal liver test results in CYP.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross‐sectional population study using electronic health care records from 257,746 CYP aged 10 to 25 years who were registered with 170 contiguous general practices in London, UK. Demographic and clinical data were extracted, including serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) tests between 2015 and 2017. BMI category thresholds were adjusted according to age group and ethnicity.

Results

Fourteen percent of CYP had ALT measured, of whom 5.4% had abnormal results; 36.3% had BMI indicating overweight or obesity. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was the most common liver diagnosis. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that overweight or obesity was an independent predictor of ALT testing in young people (ages 18‐25) but not in children (ages 10‐17) and of abnormal test results in all CYP, irrespective of ALT threshold.

Conclusions

Overweight and obesity are predictors of liver testing (not in children) and abnormal test results, irrespective of ALT threshold. Given the rising prevalence of metabolic dysfunction, a coordinated strategy is needed for liver testing and interpreting results in this young population.
Lower DBPs With Chlorine Dioxide Preoxidation
Authors: Littrell Lance R. , Gongre Bryan , Flynn Patrick , Gentilucci Domenic , Romano Stephen N. , Dorris Rhea , Parra Gina
Published: December 2019

A pilot study illustrated how chlorine dioxide can minimize disinfection byproduct formation while saving money compared with other methods.
Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and exhaled nitric oxide in an early adolescent cohort
Authors: Flashner Bess M. , Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl L. , Oken Emily , Camargo Carlos A. , Platts‐Mills Thomas J. , Workman Lisa , Litonjua Augusto A. , Gold Diane R. , Rice Mary B.
Published: December 2019

Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a marker of airway inflammation that is well‐characterized in allergic disease states. However, FeNO is also involved in nonallergic inflammatory and pulmonary vascular mechanisms or responses to environmental stimuli. We sought to determine the extent to which obesity or sedentary lifestyle is associated with FeNO in adolescents not selected on the basis of allergic disease. In Project Viva, a prebirth cohort study, we measured body mass index (BMI), skinfold thicknesses, waist circumference, body fat, hours watching television, hours of physical activity, and heart rate after exercise among 929 adolescents (median age, 12.9). We measured FeNO twice and averaged these as a continuous, log‐transformed outcome. We performed linear regression models, adjusted for child age, sex, height, and race/ethnicity, maternal education and smoking during pregnancy, household income and smoking, and neighbourhood characteristics. In secondary analysis, we additionally adjusted for asthma. More than 2 hours spent watching TV was associated with 10% lower FeNO (95% confidence interval [CI]: −20, 0%). Higher body fat percentage was also associated with lower FeNO. After additional adjustment for asthma, teens who are underweight (BMI <5th %tile, 3%) had 22% lower FeNO (95%CI: −40, 2%) and teens who are overweight (BMI ≥85th %ile, 28%) had 13% lower FeNO (95%CI: −23, −2%). Each of these associations of lifestyle and body weight with lower FeNO were greater in magnitude after adjusting for asthma. In summary, sedentary lifestyle, high and low BMI were all associated with lower FeNO in this adolescent cohort.
Structure‐activity relationship studies of shortened analogues of the antimicrobial peptide EeCentrocin 1 from the sea urchin Echinus esculentus
Authors: Solstad Runar G. , Johansen Cecilie , Stensvåg Klara , Strøm Morten B. , Haug Tor
Published: December 2019

EeCentrocin 1 is a potent antimicrobial peptide isolated from the marine sea urchin Echinus esculentus. The peptide has a hetero‐dimeric structure with the antimicrobial activity confined in its largest monomer, the heavy chain (HC), encompassing 30 amino acid residues. The aim of the present study was to develop a shorter drug lead peptide using the heavy chain of EeCentrocin 1 as a starting scaffold and to perform a structure‐activity relationship study with sequence modifications to optimize antimicrobial activity. The experiments consisted of 1) truncation of the heavy chain, 2) replacement of amino acids unfavourable for in vitro antimicrobial activity, and 3) an alanine scan experiment on the truncated and modified heavy chain sequence to identify essential residues for antimicrobial activity. The heavy chain of EeCentrocin 1 was truncated to less than half its initial size, retaining most of its original antimicrobial activity. The truncated and optimized lead peptide (P6) consisted of the 12 N‐terminal amino acid residues from the original EeCentrocin 1 HC sequence and was modified by two amino acid replacements and a C‐terminal amidation. Results from the alanine scan indicated that the generated lead peptide (P6) contained the optimal sequence for antibacterial activity, in which none of the alanine scan peptides could surpass its antimicrobial activity. The lead peptide (P6) was also superior in antifungal activity compared to the other peptides prepared and showed minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in the low micromolar range. In addition, the lead peptide (P6) displayed minor haemolytic and no cytotoxic activity, making it a promising lead for further antimicrobial drug development.