bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of gestational diabetes in women with a concurrent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, experience of a single center in Northern Italy
Authors: D’Ambrosi Francesco , Rossi Gabriele , Soldavini Chiara Maria , Maggi Valeria , Cetera Giulia Emily , Carbone Ilma Floriana , Di Martino Daniela , Di Maso Matteo , Ferrazzi Enrico
Published: October 2020

Objective

In this study we describe the management of women with gestational diabetes (GD) and an ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. The aim of the study is to evaluate whether coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can further complicate pregnancies, and if the protocol we usually use for GD pregnancies is also applicable to patients who have contracted a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods

This is a retrospective study analyzing all pregnant women with GD and concomitant COVID‐19 admitted to our institution for antenatal care between March 1 and April 30, 2020.

Results

Among pregnant women with GD and a concomitant SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, the mean age was 32.9 (SD 5.6) years. Two patients (33%) were of white racial origin and four (67%) were of non‐white racial origin. All patients were diagnosed with COVID‐19 during the third trimester of pregnancy. Two women were asymptomatic and four were symptomatic. Only two (33.3%) women received treatment with insulin. None of the patients required intensive care or mechanical ventilation. No complications were found among the neonates.

Conclusion

COVID‐19 was not found to worsen the prognosis of patients with GD or of their offspring. Glycemic monitoring, diet therapy, and insulin, when needed, are sufficient for good metabolic control and favorable maternal and fetal outcomes.
False‐positive 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine scan in a patient with renal cell carcinoma: A case of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma oncocytic variant with a complicated clinical course
Authors: Suyama Takahito , Kanesaka Manato , Fujimoto Ayumi , Otsuka Kotaro , Hou Kyokushin , Araki Kazuhiro , Masuda Hiroshi , Kojima Satoko , Yamazaki Kazuto , Naya Yukio
Published: October 2020

Introduction

123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine scanning has high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of tumors derived from sympathetic nerves or the adrenal medulla. We report the rare case of a 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine false‐positive renal cell carcinoma.

Case presentation

The patient was referred to our hospital with an incidental left renal mass during evaluation for hypertension. An ovarian tumor and prominent ascites were also observed. Serum and urine catecholamine levels were high to suspect a catecholamine‐producing tumor of the kidney. 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy showed increased 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine intake in the tumor. Laparoscopic radical left nephrectomy was performed. The pathologic diagnosis was an oncocytic variant of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma. No pheochromocytoma features were found.

Conclusion

We report the first case of a 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine false‐positive renal cell carcinoma. This case was diagnosed with primary aldosteronism and Meigs’ syndrome, which made the clinical course more complicated.
High‐intensity focused ultrasound ablation combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization improves long‐term efficacy and prognosis of primary liver cancer
Authors: Sun Meng , Shang Pengyan , Bai Jiangtao , Li Shanfeng , Li Meng
Published: October 2020

Background

To investigate the clinical efficacy of high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the treatment of primary liver cancer (PLC) and its effect on the prognosis of patients.

Methods

A total of 132 patients with PLC admitted to our hospital were selected for the study, among whom 68 patients received TACE combined with HIUF and were assigned to the observation group (OG), whereas the remaining 54 patients were treated with TACE alone and were assigned to the control group (CG). The factors influencing the patients’ prognosis were also evaluated by multivariate analysis.

Results

The total effective rate of the OG was 83.82%, which was significantly higher than that of 55.56% of the CG (P < .05). No significant difference was found in incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P > .05). After treatment, the increases of CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+, and NK cells in the OG were more significant than those in the CG (P < .05). However, the decrease of CD8+ cells was more significant in the OG than that in the CG (P < .05). The 3‐year survival rate of patients in the OG was 61.76%, which was significantly higher than that of 40.74% in the CG (P < .05).

Conclusion

The application of TACE combined with HIFU is effective in treating PLC, which can prolong the life expectancy and improve the prognosis of patients with PLC without increasing the incidence of adverse reactions.
A continuous method for arsenic removal from groundwater using hybrid biopolymer‐iron‐nanoaggregates: improvement through factorial designs
Authors: Batistelli Marianela , Mora Bárbara P , Mangiameli Florencia , Mamana Nadia , Lopez Gerardo , Goddio María F , Bellú Sebastián , González Juan C
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Due to a variety of toxicological problems, the presence of As(V) in aquifers is a significant concern. Sorption using chitosan doped with iron nanoaggregates results in a green and cheap methodology for its elimination.

RESULTS

The hybrid sorbent was characterized by SEM, EDS, TGA, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy. Its stability against pH and time was determined by ICP‐MS, while conventional analytical techniques verified its Fe content. The sum of an individual As(V) removal capacity by chitosan and iron nanoaggregates was smaller than that of the hybrid sorbent, indicating the existence of synergy.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the great capacity of the hybrid sorbent to eliminate As(V) working with a continuous system (columns). The additional use of a factorial design allows for determining of optimal operating values to optimize two responses. In other words, in this multi‐response system, column service time (tb) was minimized and, at the same time, it maximized the volumes of purified water obtained ([As(V)] <0.05 m L−1) using desirability function. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Recent advances on the synthesis of flavans, isoflavans, and neoflavans
Authors: Chinnabattigalla Sreenivasulu , Dakoju Ravi Kishore , Gedu Satyanarayana
Published: October 2020

Heterocyclic compounds are the omnipresent structural cores comprising many natural and pharmaceutical products of biological significance. Significantly, heterocyclic compounds are widely distributed in nature, and also have applications in agrochemicals, sanitizers, as dyestuff, as copolymers, etc. Among heterocyles, flavonoids are a class of compounds that are highly interesting and constitute many natural products. In general, all flavanoids contains a basic core of C6‐C3‐C6 of phenyl‐benzopyran backbone. The relative placement of the phenyl group on to the benzopyran core makes further classification into flavanoids, isoflavanoids and neoflavanoids. Flavans (2‐aryl chroman) are subclass of anthoxanthanes exhibits a broad spectrum of biological properties such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, and anti‐malarial properties. Some representative naturally occurring products possessing flavan core are apigenin, luteolin, tangeretin, scutellarein, etc. On the other hand, some of the notable isoflavan‐based natural products are glabridin and (S)‐(−)‐equol. Glabridin is isolated from Licorice roots, which regulates paraoxonase (PON2) levels. While the simple isoflavan (S)‐(−)‐equol, is produced from soy isoflavone intake. Also, natural products such as dalbergichromene, centchroman, and (+)‐myristinin A possess neoflavan (4‐aryl‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐chromenes) core structure. Owing to their broad biological and pharmacological properties, synthetic chemists are fascinated in developing new routes toward their synthesis. As a result, a decent number of reports have been established in the literature. Thus, for the past 5 years of time frame, many new methodologies have been witnessed, for the synthesis of various flavan systems. This review emphasizes most of the significant methods on accomplishing flavans, isoflavans and neoflavans and also focused on their applications to the synthesis of relevant natural as well as biologically active products.
Current progress with mammalian models of mitochondrialDNAdisease
Authors: Stewart James Bruce
Published: October 2020

Mitochondrial disorders make up a large class of heritable diseases that cause a broad array of different human pathologies. They can affect many different organ systems, or display very specific tissue presentation, and can lead to illness either in childhood or later in life. While the over 1200 genes encoded in the nuclear DNA play an important role in human mitochondrial disease, it has been known for over 30 years that mutations of the mitochondria's own small, multicopy DNA chromosome (mtDNA) can lead to heritable human diseases. Unfortunately, animal mtDNA has resisted transgenic and directed genome editing technologies until quite recently. As such, animal models to aid in our understanding of these diseases, and to explore preclinical therapeutic research have been quite rare. This review will discuss the unusual properties of animal mitochondria that have hindered the generation of animal models. It will also discuss the existing mammalian models of human mtDNA disease, describe the methods employed in their generation, and will discuss recent advances in the targeting of DNA‐manipulating enzymes to the mitochondria and how these may be employed to generate new models.
Gender inequality in academia: Problems and solutions for women faculty in STEM
Authors: Casad Bettina J. , Franks Jillian E. , Garasky Christina E. , Kittleman Melinda M. , Roesler Alanna C. , Hall Deidre Y. , Petzel Zachary W.
Published: October 2020

Recently there is widespread interest in women's underrepresentation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); however, progress toward gender equality in these fields is slow. More alarmingly, these gender disparities worsen when examining women's representation within STEM departments in academia. While the number of women receiving postgraduate degrees has increased in recent years, the number of women in STEM faculty positions remains largely unchanged. One explanation for this lack of progress toward gender parity is negative and pervasive gender stereotypes, which may facilitate hiring discrimination and reduce opportunities for women's career advancement. Women in STEM also have lower social capital (e.g., support networks), limiting women's opportunities to earn tenure and learn about grant funding mechanisms. Women faculty in STEM may also perceive their academic climate as unwelcoming and threatening, and report hostility and uncomfortable tensions in their work environments, such as sexual harassment and discrimination. Merely the presence of gender‐biased cues in physical spaces targeted toward men (e.g., “geeky” décor) can foster a sense of not belonging in STEM. We describe the following three factors that likely contribute to gender inequalities and women's departure from academic STEM fields: (a) numeric underrepresentation and stereotypes, (b) lack of supportive social networks, and (c) chilly academic climates. We discuss potential solutions for these problems, focusing on National Science Foundation‐funded ADVANCE organizational change interventions that target (a) recruiting diverse applicants (e.g., training search committees), (b) mentoring, networking, and professional development (e.g., promoting women faculty networks); and (c) improving academic climate (e.g., educating male faculty on gender bias).
Divergent membrane properties of mouse cochlear glial cells around hearing onset
Authors: Smith Katie E. , Murphy Phoebe , Jagger Daniel J.
Published: October 2020

Spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) are the primary afferent neurons of the auditory system, and together with their attendant glia, form the auditory nerve. Within the cochlea, satellite glial cells (SGCs) encapsulate the cell body of SGNs, whereas Schwann cells (SCs) wrap their peripherally‐ and centrally‐directed neurites. Despite their likely importance in auditory nerve function and homeostasis, the physiological properties of auditory glial cells have evaded description. Here, we characterized the voltage‐activated membrane currents of glial cells from the mouse cochlea. We identified a prominent weak inwardly rectifying current in SGCs within cochlear slice preparations (postnatal day P5‐P6), which was also present in presumptive SGCs within dissociated cultures prepared from the cochleae of hearing mice (P14‐P15). Pharmacological block by Ba2+ and desipramine suggested that channels belonging to the Kir4 family mediated the weak inwardly rectifying current, and post hoc immunofluorescence implicated the involvement of Kir4.1 subunits. Additional electrophysiological profiles were identified for glial cells within dissociated cultures, suggesting that glial subtypes may have specific membrane properties to support distinct physiological roles. Immunofluorescence using fixed cochlear sections revealed that although Kir4.1 is restricted to SGCs after the onset of hearing, these channels are more widely distributed within the glial population earlier in postnatal development (i.e., within both SGCs and SCs). The decrease in Kir4.1 immunofluorescence during SC maturation was coincident with a reduction of Sox2 expression and advancing neurite myelination. The data suggest a diversification of glial properties occurs in preparation for sound‐driven activity in the auditory nerve.
Model evaluation and uncertainties in projected changes of drought over northern China based on CMIP5 models
Authors: Lu Xi , Rao Xiaoqiang , Dong Wenjie
Published: October 2020

In recent decades, severe and long duration drought events have serious impacts on northern China. Consequently, this study is motivated by investigating the projection and uncertainties of drought change over northern China based on 20 CMIP5 multi‐model ensemble (AMME) and best multi‐model ensemble (BMME) under middle and high emission scenarios. BMME selected in term of the spatial patterns and interannual variability of aridity index (AI) against the observations shows better performance on the simulation of dryland especially for hyper‐arid areas in Northwest China (NWC) and sub‐humid regions in North China (NC). In the middle of 21st century, the projections from two model ensembles illustrate the aggravation of drought in loess plateau and west of Xinjiang but reduction of acridity over NWC. Northeast China (NEC) becomes more arid under RCP8.5 that is sensitive with the high emission. The uncertainties increase between two model ensembles at the end of 21st century when the opposite trend can be found over NC under RCP4.5 and NEC under RCP8.5, respectively. The increasing rate of precipitation and PET is the key factor for AI change. The larger contribution of precipitation than PET results in the humid tendency over NWC. Moreover, the equivalent contributions of precipitation and PET induce the increased uncertainties in AI change over NC and NEC. Similarly, the temporal evaluation of AI indicates decreasing trend of drought over NWC but the large uncertainties can be found after middle of this century over NEC and in the early of the century over NC.
Evaluation of the dependence of the sensible heat flux trend on elevation over the Tibetan Plateau in CMIP5 models
Authors: Zhu Lihua , Huang Gang , Fan Guangzhou , Qü Xia , Wang Zhibiao , Hua Wei , Lai Xin
Published: October 2020

We evaluated the dependence of the sensible heat flux trend over the Tibetan Plateau on elevation by comparing the 29 climate models in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) with ground observations in the time period 1980–2005. The sensible heat flux trend over the Tibetan Plateau shows an elevation‐dependent variation in both the observations and reanalysis datasets, with a larger negative trend at higher altitudes. Most of the models analysed in this study performed poorly in simulating the linear trend of the sensible heat flux, although two models (HadGEM2‐CC and HadGEM2‐ES) reasonably captured the elevation range and seasons with a prominent decreasing trend in the sensible heat flux over the Tibetan Plateau. These two models possess good skills in depicting both the sensible heat flux trend and the terrain of the plateau in every 1,000 m wide altitudinal band. The coherence of the elevation‐dependent variation in the sensible heat flux trend between the observations and models is therefore not fortuitous. The sensible heat flux trend in most models of CMIP5 is sensitive to variations in the surface wind speed and the difference in temperature between the ground surface and the air, although these two factors show large biases deviating from the reanalysis product in almost all models in this study. In the HadGEM2‐CC and HadGEM2‐ES models, which showed a good performance in capturing the elevation‐dependent sensible heat flux trend, the leaf area index was shown to be the predominant factor affecting the variation in the sensible heat flux trend with elevation. That maybe link with the dynamic vegetation scheme in these two models.
Potential complementary functions among bacteria, fungi, and archaea involved in carbon cycle during reversal of desertification
Authors: Wang Zengru , Wang Yansong , Zhang Wenli , Liu Yubing , Gao Tianpeng
Published: October 2020

Development of biological soil crusts (BSCs) on bare land is a sign of reversal of desertification, and microbial communities of BSCs are the biogeochemical engineers of desert ecosystems. However, regulation of different microbial groups involved in the carbon (C) cycle is not clear. This study investigated the correlation between bacteria, fungi, and archaea of BSCs involved in the C cycle during reversal of desertification through community abundance analysis by quantitative PCR and functional gene detection using GeoChip 5.0. Among the known C cycle genes found in BSCs, 84.5% of C degradation genes, 95% of C fixation genes, and all of methane oxidation genes were derived from bacteria owing to their highest proportion among the total microbial abundance of BSCs; some recalcitrant C degradation genes were derived from fungi; and other C fixation pathway and methanogenesis genes originated from archaea. The increased abundance of bacteria and fungi and decreased abundance of archaea during reversal of desertification, as well as the difference in C cycle genes of the three microbial groups, indicated the functional complementarity among these microorganisms involved in C cycle. At the early stage of BSC development, archaea, and bacteria provide available C sources by autotrophic CO2 fixation pathway; bacteria play important roles in C degradation, C fixation, and methane oxidation during the entire BSC development process; and fungi mainly degrade lignin at the later stage of BSC development. Thus, cooperation among BSC microflora altered C cycle during reversal of desertification.
Sensitivity and specificity of single and combined clouds analyses compared with quantitative motor unit potential analysis
Authors: Li Chuqiao , Jiang Anqi , Ding Qingyun , Hu Youfang , Wang Yao , Tian Ge , Wang Honghao , Pan Suyue , Cui Liying , Peng Yu
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Turns‐amplitude, number of small segments (NSS)‐activity, and envelope‐activity clouds are three methods of electromyography (EMG) interference pattern analysis. Our objective was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of each individual cloud analysis and combined clouds analysis to compare with that of quantitative motor unit potential (QMUP) analysis.

Methods

A total of 379 muscles from 100 patients were analyzed by both QMUP and clouds analyses. Calculation of sensitivity and specificity was based on the clinical diagnosis as the “gold standard.”

Results

For discrimination of abnormal vs normal and neuropathic vs non‐neuropathic, combined clouds analysis had greater sensitivity than QMUP analysis and any single cloud analysis, but there were no differences in specificity. For discrimination of myopathic vs non‐myopathic, combined clouds analysis and single cloud analysis had greater sensitivity than QMUP analysis, but there were no differences in specificity.

Discussion

Combined clouds analysis was superior to QMUP and each single cloud analysis for distinguishing normal, myopathic, and neuropathic muscles.
The arbitrary‐order virtual element method for linear elastodynamics models: convergence, stability and dispersion‐dissipation analysis
Authors: Antonietti Paola F. , Manzini Gianmarco , Mazzieri Ilario , Mourad Hashem M. , Verani Marco
Published: October 2020

We design the conforming virtual element method for the numerical approximation of the two‐dimensional elastodynamics problem. We prove stability and convergence of the semidiscrete approximation and derive optimal error estimates under h‐ and p‐refinement in both the energy and the L2 norms. The performance of the proposed virtual element method is assessed on a set of different computational meshes, including nonconvex cells up to order four in the h‐refinement setting. Exponential convergence is also experimentally observed under p‐refinement. Finally, we present a dispersion‐dissipation analysis for both the semidiscrete and fully discrete schemes, showing that polygonal meshes behave as classical simplicial/quadrilateral grids in terms of dispersion‐dissipation properties.
Effects of internal service quality on nurses’ job satisfaction, commitment and performance: Mediating role of employee well‐being
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad Ibrahim , Huang Dechun , Sarfraz Muddassar , Ivascu Larisa , Riaz Amir
Published: October 2020

Aim

The attitudes and behaviours of nursing staff are critical to determine patients’ satisfaction and to have a competitive advantage for any healthcare organization. This study is set to investigate the effects of internal service quality (ISQ) on nurses’ job satisfaction, employee commitment, well‐being and job performance in the healthcare sector of Pakistan. Further, this study also examines the mediating role of nurses’ well‐being for the relationship of job satisfaction and commitment with their job performance.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional quantitative research. A self‐administered survey was used to collect data from 412 nursing employees of 20 private sector healthcare centres operating in Pakistan. Partial least square of structural equation model (PLS‐SEM) and structural equation modelling (SEM) were employed through Smart PLS 3.2.8 for data analysis.

Results

Study results revealed that ISQ directly effects employees’ satisfaction, commitment, well‐being of the nursing employees. Moreover, employees’ well‐being has mediated job satisfaction and job performance relationship; however, well‐being did not mediate the relationship between commitment and job performance.
What are the patients' and health care professionals' understanding and behaviors towards adverse drug reaction reporting and additional monitoring?
Authors: Januskiene Justina , Segec Andrej , Slattery Jim , Genov Georgy , Plueschke Kelly , Kurz Xavier , Arlett Peter
Published: October 2020

Background

The additional monitoring (AM)/black triangle concept is aimed to enhance ADR reporting for certain types of medicinal products for which the safety profile is less well established.

Purpose

The objective of this survey was to assess (a) attitudes towards ADR reporting and reasons for not reporting an ADR and (b) awareness of AM among HCPs, patients or their careers in EU countries.

Methods

An online questionnaire which was available in all EU languages was completed by 2918 responders coming from all EEA countries.

Results

The main factors motivating to report an ADR were severity or novelty of the reaction or novelty of the medicine. The main factors for not reporting an ADR was the fact that the ADR is already known (35%), the ADR was not serious (18%) or reporter was not sure if the ADR was related to the medicine (15%). Half of the respondents indicated that they have seen AM statement before. Thirty percent of the responders had correct understanding of the AM concept while 20 % misunderstood the concept.

Conclusion

Underreporting occurs but it seems this is because of reporter's prioritisation towards certain type of ADRs. AM aims to increase reporting for certain medicines, however, approximately half of responders have seen the AM symbol before and 20% of all responders (independent of their previous awareness) misunderstood the concept.
High‐fracture‐toughness acrylic–polyurethane‐based graft‐interpenetrating polymer networks for transparent applications
Authors: Alizadeh Nima , Barde Mehul , Minkler Michael , Celestine Asha‐Dee , Agrawal Vinamra , Beckingham Bryan , Auad Maria L
Published: October 2020

Transparent materials with robust mechanical properties are essential for numerous applications and require careful manipulation of polymer chemistry. Here, polyurethane (PU) and acrylic‐based copolymers out of styrene were utilized to synthesize transparent PU–acrylic graft‐interpenetrating polymer networks (graft‐IPNs) for the first time. In these materials, PU imparts greater flexibility, while the acrylic copolymer increases rigidity and glass transition temperature of the graft‐IPNs. Kinetics of the graft‐IPN synthesis was monitored using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H NMR spectroscopy through the conversion of the isocyanate group. System compatibility, degree of phase separation and material transparency were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy and UV–visible spectroscopy. Overall, higher compatibility is observed at a higher percentage of styrene in the acrylate copolymer. The thermomechanical properties of the IPNs were quantified using dynamic mechanical analysis to assess the effect of the acrylic copolymer content on fracture toughness of the resulting graft‐IPNs. The high fracture toughness of the graft‐IPNs, coupled with excellent transparency, demonstrates the potential of these systems for high‐performance applications. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Detailed thermal analysis of crystallization kinetics and band morphology for future blending of absorbable poly(p‐dioxanone) monofilament surgical suture with poly(ε‐caprolactone)
Authors: Mamun Al
Published: October 2020

The thermal effects on crystallization kinetics and the band morphology of absorbable poly(p‐dioxanone) (PDS) were studied in detail with TGA, AFM, DSC and polarized optical microscopy techniques. The polymer film was crystallized with isothermal and non‐isothermal conditions over a wide temperature range, cooling from the melt at 140 °C (beyond the equilibrium melting temperature but below the degradation temperature). With the isothermal crystallization process, a well‐defined spherulitic morphology of the PDS polymer, linearly growing in all directions with time, was observed. A microstructure analysis by polarized optical microscopy and AFM revealed that the crystallized PDS shows large spherulites with band morphology, the nucleation density decreases and the spacing between the band increases with crystallization temperature. The periodic band morphology of the spherulites is related to edge‐on and flat‐on lamella orientation. The crystallization temperature dependent spherulite growth rate displayed a bell‐shaped curve, showing a highest spherulite growth rate at 60 °C, explained by classical nucleation theory. These results allowed a good understanding of the thermal and morphological properties of the PDS polymer over a wide temperatures range in both isothermal and non‐isothermal conditions. Additionally, the crystallization and melting behaviors of the PDS polymer were studied and compared for the future application of blending with other compatible polymers, e.g. poly(ε‐caprolactone). © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Current scenario of RNAi‐based hemipteran control
Authors: Jain Ritesh G , Robinson Karl E , Asgari Sassan , Mitter Neena
Published: October 2020

RNA interference (RNAi) is an homology‐dependent gene silencing mechanism that is a feasible and sustainable avenue for the management of hemipteran pests. Commercial implementation of RNAi‐based control strategies is impeded by limited knowledge about the mechanism of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) uptake, the function of core RNAi genes and systemic RNAi mechanisms in hemipteran insects. This review briefly summarizes recent progress in RNAi‐based studies aimed to reduce insect populations, viral transmission and insecticide resistance focusing on hemipteran pests. This review explores RNAi‐mediated management of hemipteran insects and offers potential solutions, including in silico approaches coupled with laboratory‐based toxicity assays to circumvent potential off‐target effects against beneficial organisms. We further explore ways to mitigate degradation of dsRNA in the environment and the insect such as stacking and formulation of dsRNA effectors. Finally, we conclude by considering nontransformative RNAi approaches, concatomerization of RNAi sequences and pyramiding RNAi with active constituents to reduce dsRNA production and application cost, and to improve broad‐spectrum hemipteran pest control. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Phosphonic acid: a long‐standing and versatile crop protectant
Authors: Dann Elizabeth , McLeod Adéle
Published: October 2020

Phosphonic acid‐based fungicides, also referred to as phosphonates, have been used extensively as crop protectants in horticulture since the late 1970s, and more recently in native ecosystems and forestry. Discovering that phosphonates are effective against foliar and soilborne oomycete diseases, such as those caused by species of Phytophthora, Pythium and Plasmopara, was a significant breakthrough, especially for soilborne pathogens that are notoriously difficult to manage. Phosphonates have played an important role in protection of forests and sensitive natural ecosystems, under threat from these pathogens. Since introduction, their increased application in management of non‐oomycete diseases, along with other functionalities, demonstrates their versatility in agriculture and more broadly. Continued use of phosphonic acid crop protectants will be underpinned by demonstrated efficacy and safety, and a better understanding of specific interactions within the plant, pathogen and environment. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A novel Bacillus thuringiensisCry9Ea‐like protein with high insecticidal activity towards Cydia pomonella larvae
Authors: Baranek Jakub , Banaszak Magdalena , Kaznowski Adam , Lorent Dagny
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The host specificity of known Bacillus thuringiensis Cry and Vip pesticidal proteins still needs extensive investigation and the proteins currently used in crop protection are not effective against many pest species. Cydia pomonella (L.) is a widespread and economically important pest of apples, very difficult to control, since the larvae spend most of their life inside a fruit. Currently, large amounts of broad‐spectrum, detrimental synthetic agents are used to combat this herbivore and therefore biopesticides with high activity against C. pomonella are very much needed.

RESULTS

The toxicity of B. thuringiensis Cry9Ea along with five distinct pesticidal proteins (Cry1Aa, Cry1Ca, Cry1Ia, Cry2Ab and Vip3Aa) has been determined towards the first‐instar larvae of C. pomonella. Cry9Ea has much higher activity than the remaining tested proteins (30–1200‐fold lower LC50) and possibly is the most potent B. thuringiensis pesticidal protein bioassayed against C. pomonella so far. In contrast, Cry9Ea is not toxic towards Spodoptera exigua (Hübn.), indicating a potentially narrow spectrum of activity. Both insect species show high variability in susceptibility to the remaining Cry/Vip proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

The obtained results extend the existing knowledge regarding B. thuringiensis pesticidal protein host range and indicate Cry9Ea as a promising candidate for successful biological control of C. pomonella. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Nd3+‐Doped Lead Boro Selenate Glass: A New Efficient System for Near‐Infrared 1.06 μm Laser Emission
Authors: Naresh Pathuri , Kostrzewa Marek , Brik Mikhail G. , Reddy Annapureddy Siva Sesha , Mohan Nutakki Krishna , Kumar Vandana Ravi , Piasecki Michal , Veeraiah Nalluri
Published: October 2020

An exotic series of glasses with the composition 39PbO—(60–x)B2O3–xSeO2:1.0 Nd2O3 (10 ≤ x ≤ 50) is prepared and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. Results of infrared (IR), Raman, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies reveal that the glass network comprises quarantined selenite [SeO3]2− groups (that act as modifiers) and selenate [SeO4]2− groups in addition to BO3 and BO4 units. With the increase in SeO2 content, the concentration of selenite groups is found to be dominant. The optical absorption (OA) spectra exhibit several bands due to 4I9/2→2P1/2, 2G9/2, 4G9/2,7/2,5/2, 2H11/2, and 4F9/2, 7/2,5/2,3/2 transitions. The spectra are characterized using J–O theory and J–O parameters are found to follow the order: Ω2 > Ω6 > Ω4. The emission spectra recorded at λexc = 808 nm exhibit bands due to 4F3/2 → 4I9/2, 4I11/2, and 4I13/2 transitions. With increase in SeO2 content, intensity of all emission bands significantly increases. The quantum efficiency evaluated from the measured and calculated lifetimes of the 4F3/2 → 4I11/2 transition is found to be enhanced by 20% with increase in SeO2 from 10 to 50 mol%. The spectra are further analyzed quantitatively using kinetic rate equations of various excited levels and the reasons for enhancement of photoluminescence (PL) emission are identified and discussed.
Impact of the one‐carbon metabolism on oocyte maturation, fertilization, embryo quality, and subsequent pregnancy
Authors: Akamine Kozue , Mekaru Keiko , Gibo Keiya , Nagata Chinatsu , Nakamura Rie , Oishi Sugiko , Miyagi Maho , Heshiki Chiaki , Aoki Yoichi
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To investigate impact of the one‐carbon metabolism (OCM) on oocyte maturity and embryo development.

Methods

This prospective study analyzed 18 women who agreed to participate. We measured the OCM biomarkers’ concentrations including Vitamin B12 (VB12), folic acid (FA), and homocysteine (Hcy) in serum and follicular fluid (FF), and assessed their correlation. We also evaluated the influence of such OCM biomarker concentrations in mono‐FF on oocyte maturation, fertilization, embryo quality, and consequent pregnancy after embryo transfers.

Results

All biomarkers showed a high concentration variability in different follicles of each woman, but their mean levels correlated with the serum levels. Among the 106 collected oocytes, 92 were mature, 59 were fertilized, and 16 yielded good‐quality embryos. We performed 26 single embryo transfers, and 7 patients achieved clinical pregnancies. VB12 concentration (FF) was significantly lower in fertilized than unfertilized oocytes by univariate analysis. In multivariate logistic analysis, a significant correlation was found between FA concentration (FF) <14.25 ng/mL and good‐quality embryos and between Hcy concentration (FF) <4.9 nmol/mL and clinical pregnancy.

Conclusion

OCM in FF may affect fertilization, embryo quality, and clinical pregnancy.
Application of a Gapless Arrester to Protect 77/66 kV Temporary Overhead Cables
Authors: Tsuboi Toshihiro , Haji Hirotaka , Mori Masato , Kiuchi Shin , Kitashima Tomoki , Anjiki Tomikazu , Ohsaki Eiichi
Published: October 2020

Lightning protection is an issue for temporary overhead cables installed on overhead transmission lines. Existing line surge arresters for overhead transmission line are not expected to provide sufficient lightning protection performance due to the air‐gap discharge delay. Accordingly, a gapless arrester has been developed to protect temporary overhead cables. This paper reports on the results of development tests and experimental constructions. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Secrecy enhancing for space shift keying‐based communication systems
Authors: Huang Zhentao , Peng Yuyang , Li Jun , Jiang Xue‐Qin
Published: October 2020

In this letter, a novel space shift keying (SSK)‐based communication scheme for secrecy enhancing is proposed. In the proposed scheme, one legitimate user and one eavesdropper exist as the receivers. The secrecy rate (SR) performance is achieved by applying the designed artificial noise (AN) to the traditional SSK system. In this way, we can effectively interfere the eavesdropper while maintaining the communication for the legitimate user. Results from the simulations demonstrate that the proposed scheme outperforms the traditional scheme in terms of the SR. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Development of Enhanced Lightning Protection System for a Wireless Base Station and its Performance Evaluation Using the FDTD Method
Authors: Tsuge Ryosuke , Baba Yoshihiro , Kudo Takeshi
Published: October 2020

Parallel down conductors, which are connected with a lightning rod at the top and a grounding ring electrode (independent of the grounding electrode for internal equipment in a structure) at the bottom, are sometimes installed outside the structure to be protected. This system was proposed and named Surge Sheltering Perfection System (SSPS). In order to enhance its performance, an insulating layer or wall is installed to a depth of 1 m or so in the ground between the grounding electrode for internal equipment to be protected and the grounding ring electrode for down conductors. In this paper, the performance of this enhanced lightning protection system is examined using the finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) method, and its effectiveness is shown. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Improving Deep Coverage of 4G Network Based on Massive MIMO Beamforming Used in 5G
Authors: Zeng Tao , Ouyang Enshan
Published: October 2020

Although 5G era has come, the comprehensive coverage of 5G will take a long time for the vast number of underdeveloped countries and regions. Therefore, it is still significant to improve the depth coverage of 4G network. Massive Multi‐in Multi‐out (MIMO) is an application of 5G key technology in 4G network. In this study, based on the theoretical principle of beamforming, a special beamforming was realized by combining precoding and direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation of sounding reference signal (SRS) in Massive MIMO antenna. Moreover, this beamforming antenna was applied to the existing 4G network. The building of deep coverage between indoor distribution and beamforming antenna was compared. It found that beamforming antenna can gain 6–8 dB beamforming gains and the overage coverage effect is better than indoor distribution. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A Tubular Single‐Phase Linear Generator with an Axially Magnetized PM Mover for Free‐Piston Engines
Authors: Sun Ye , Xu Zhaoping , Zhang Qinglin , Lu Jinkang , Liu Liang
Published: October 2020

A novel tubular single‐phase linear generator with an axially magnetized permanent magnets (PM) mover is proposed in this paper for the application of free‐piston engine, which is an alternative power generation system of next‐generation electric vehicle. The transient 3D with motion electromagnetic field finite element model is created to analyze the EMF and thrust force characteristics of the linear generator. A 1.4 kW prototype with the max stroke of 40 mm and the max thrust force of 1670 N is developed, and main performances of the prototype are tested and validated with the finite element simulation. The prototype generating efficiency of 84 and 91% can be obtained respectively when driving by the 35 and 50 Hz sinusoidal reciprocation motion. Compared with the existed moving coil linear generator with similar generating efficiency, the mass power density and the volumetric power density of the new linear generator increase by about 37 and 80%, respectively. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Use of aminoglycoside antibiotics in equine clinical practice; a questionnaire‐based study of current use
Authors: Redpath Adam , Hallowell Gayle D. , Bowen Ian Mark
Published: October 2020

Veterinary use of the aminoglycoside antibiotics is under increasing scrutiny. This questionnaire‐based study aimed to document the use of aminoglycosides with a particular focus on gentamicin. An online questionnaire was delivered to generalist equine veterinary surgeons and specialists in internal medicine to determine the perceived importance, frequency of use and routes of administration of the aminoglycoside antibiotics. A series of hypothetical scenarios were also evaluated regarding gentamicin. Data were compared to evaluate the impact of the level of specialisation on prescribing practices for different antibiotics using Chi‐squared and Fischer's exact tests. Data were analysed from 111 responses. Gentamicin was commonly used empirically without culture and susceptibility testing. Generalists were more likely to use gentamicin only after susceptibility testing than specialists in a variety of clinical presentations including respiratory diseases, septic peritonitis, acute febrile diarrhoea, cellulitis and contaminated limb wounds (p < 0.01). Intravenous administration of gentamicin was most common, although inhaled and regional administration of gentamicin and amikacin were also described. Amikacin was most commonly used by intra‐articular administration. Gentamicin was more likely to be used in high‐risk procedures or contaminated surgeries (86% and 74%, respectively) compared with clean surgery (32%;p < 0.0001). Gentamicin was often used perioperatively in horses undergoing exploratory celiotomy and more commonly used in horses undergoing an enterotomy (90%) than without and enterotomy (79%;p = 0.04). Most respondents (86%) used gentamicin at a dose of 6.6 mg/kg in adults, with few changing their dosing strategies based on the presence of sepsis, although higher doses were more reported in foals (7–15 mg/kg) irrespective of the presence of sepsis. Aminoglycosides are widely used in equine practice and use outside current EU marketing authorisations is common. Stewardship of the aminoglycoside antibiotics could be enhanced in both generalists and specialists through the more frequent use of susceptibility testing, regional administration and dose adjustment, especially in foals.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of memory‐guided attention: Frontal and parietal activation suggests involvement of fronto‐parietal networks
Authors: Fischer Manda , Moscovitch Morris , Alain Claude
Published: October 2020

Prior knowledge and long‐term memory can guide our attention to facilitate search for and detection of subtle targets embedded in a complex scene. A number of neuropsychological and experimental studies have investigated this effect, yet results in the field remain mixed, as there is a lack of consensus regarding the neural correlates thought to support memory‐guided attention. The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to identify a common set of brain structures involved in memory‐guided attention. Statistical analyses were computed on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies that presented participants with a task that required them to detect a target or a change embedded in repeated and novel complex visual displays. After a systematic search, 10 fMRI studies met the selection criteria and were included in the analysis. The results yielded four significant clusters. Activity in right inferior parietal (Brodmann area [BA] 9) and right superior parietal (BA 7) lobes suggests involvement of a fronto‐parietal attention network, while activity in left mid‐cingulate cortex (BA 23) and right middle frontal gyrus (BA 10) suggests involvement of a fronto‐parietal control network. These findings are consistent with the notion that fronto‐parietal circuits are important for interfacing retrieved memories with attentional systems to guide search.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Memory

Psychology > Learning

Psychology > Attention
Current and emerging histomorphometric and imaging techniques for assessingage‐at‐deathand cortical bone quality
Authors: Andronowski Janna M. , Cole Mary E.
Published: October 2020

Bones are dynamic living organs that undergo continual change throughout life. An internal process of tissue renewal, called remodeling, removes mature microscopic packets of bone, and replaces them with new bone in a highly coordinated manner. To date, it remains difficult to directly observe and track individual remodeling events in cortical bone due to the small size of the structures involved. High‐resolution imaging techniques hold the potential to provide novel three‐dimensional information pertaining to changes in bone's microarchitecture, cortical porosity, and the remodeling process. This review critically explores the methodological approaches used historically by researchers to assess the products of remodeling within cortical bone and relate it to age‐at‐death estimation, extending from histology to modern ex vivo imaging modalities, and discusses the growing potential of in vivo imaging. We further provide an introduction to various histological indicators of bone quality and fragility, their forensic relevance, and examples of novel imaging modalities employed for their investigation. The review concludes with an introduction to cutting‐edge in vivo four‐dimensional imaging techniques that include the use of animal models to shed new light on the dynamic nature of bone, and the processes of bone aging and disease. Data gleaned from these new insights will ultimately lead to the development of future histologic age‐estimation methods in forensic anthropology.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Anthropology > Age Assessment

Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Emerging Technologies and Methods

Forensic Medicine > Imaging Modalities