bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial Engineering for Production of N‐Functionalized Amino Acids and Amines
Authors: Mindt Melanie , Walter Tatjana , Kugler Pierre , Wendisch Volker F.
Published: March 2020

N‐functionalized amines play important roles in nature and occur, for example, in the antibiotic vancomycin, the immunosuppressant cyclosporine, the cytostatic actinomycin, the siderophore aerobactin, the cyanogenic glucoside linamarin, and the polyamine spermidine. In the pharmaceutical and fine‐chemical industries N‐functionalized amines are used as building blocks for the preparation of bioactive molecules. Processes based on fermentation and on enzyme catalysis have been developed to provide sustainable manufacturing routes to N‐alkylated, N‐hydroxylated, N‐acylated, or other N‐functionalized amines including polyamines. Metabolic engineering for provision of precursor metabolites is combined with heterologous N‐functionalizing enzymes such as imine or ketimine reductases, opine or amino acid dehydrogenases, N‐hydroxylases, N‐acyltransferase, or polyamine synthetases. Recent progress and applications of fermentative processes using metabolically engineered bacteria and yeasts along with the employed enzymes are reviewed and the perspectives on developing new fermentative processes based on insight from enzyme catalysis are discussed.
Egocentric and allocentric spatial memory in typically developed children: Is spatial memory associated with visuospatial skills, behavior, and cortisol?
Authors: Fernandez‐Baizan Cristina , Nuñez Paula , Arias Jorge L. , Mendez Marta
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Spatial orientation relies mainly on two frameworks. The egocentric depends on our own position and point of view. The allocentric relies on remembering, recalling, and recognizing environmental stimuli called landmarks. The aim of this study was to analyze the egocentric and allocentric spatial memory performance in children of different ages using two experimental memory card‐placing tasks. We also aimed to examine relationships between spatial memory and other cognitive, physiological, and behavioral factors that, potentially, could be associated with spatial memory performance. Those were other visuospatial functions, the regular behavior of the child, cortisol levels, and daily life spatial memory.

Methods

We assessed 62 children (5, 6, and 7 years) using card‐placing tasks. We used RIST for IQ evaluation and subtest from NEPSY‐II for visuospatial ability assessment. Collection of saliva sample was carried out for cortisol analysis. Parents completed BASC questionnaire for behavioral evaluation and ECM‐Q questionnaire for daily life spatial memory evaluation.

Results

Our results showed that older children performed better on mental rotation. Directionality, map interpretation, and daily memory were directly associated with both egocentric and allocentric orientation. Egocentric performance was positively related to leadership abilities but negatively to depression and atypicality, while allocentric performance was directly associated with adaptive behavior but inversely with hyperactivity. Finally, cortisol values were positively associated with allocentric performance.

Conclusions

Our study shows the development of different spatial abilities between 5 and 7 years, as well as the relationship between orientation performance, visuospatial skills, behavior, and cortisol.
GAPT regulates cholinergic dysfunction and oxidative stress in the brains of learning and memory impairment mice induced by scopolamine
Authors: Liu Zhenhong , Qin Gaofeng , Mana Lulu , Dong Yunfang , Huang Shuaiyang , Wang Yahan , Wu Yiqiong , Shi Jing , Tian Jinzhou , Wang Pengwen
Published: March 2020

Background

Cholinergic dysfunction and oxidative stress are the crucial mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). GAPT, also called GEPT (a combination of several active components extracted from the Chinese herbs ginseng, epimedium, polygala and tuber curcumae) or Jinsiwei, is a patented Chinese herbal compound, has been clinically widely used to improve learning and memory impairment, but whether it can play a neuroprotective role by protecting cholinergic neurons and reducing oxidative stress injury remains unclear.

Methods

Male ICR mice were intraperitoneally injected with scopolamine (3 mg/kg) to establish a learning and memory disordered model. An LC‐MS method was established to study the chemical compounds and in vivo metabolites of GAPT. After scopolamine injection, a step‐down passive‐avoidance test (SDPA) and a Y maze test were used to estimate learning ability and cognitive function. In addition, ELISA detected the enzymatic activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), acetylcholine (ACh), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD). The protein expressions of AChE, ChAT, SOD1, and GPX1 were observed by western blot, and the distribution of ChAT, SOD1, and GPX1 was observed by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

After one‐half or 1 month of intragastric administration, GAPT can ameliorate scopolamine‐induced behavioral changes in learning and memory impaired mice. It can also decrease the activity of MDA and protein expression level of AChE, increase the activity of Ach, and increase activity and protein expression level of ChAT, SOD, and GPX in scopolamine‐treated mice. After one and a half month of intragastric administration of GAPT, echinacoside, salvianolic acid A, ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rg2, pachymic acid, and beta asarone could be absorbed into mice blood and pass through BBB.

Conclusions

GAPT can improve the learning and memory ability of scopolamine‐induced mice, and its mechanism may be related to protecting cholinergic neurons and reducing oxidative stress injury.
Prostate cancer risk in patients with melanoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Acharya Prakash , Mathur Mahesh
Published: March 2020

Background

The risk of prostate cancer in melanoma patients has been frequently assessed. However, a comprehensive meta‐analysis specifically examining this association is lacking. Our aim was to quantify the risk of prostate cancer in melanoma patients based on the available evidence.

Methods

A systematic review of the existing literature was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases by two authors independently. Studies reporting the effect size in the form of standardized incidence ratio (SIR) were used for quantitative analyses.

Results

Of 17 studies included in the review, a total of 15 studies with 282 592 male melanoma patients were used for the analysis. Random‐effects meta‐analysis found a 24% increased risk (SIR = 1.24, 95% confidence interval 1.18 to 1.30) of prostate cancer in melanoma patients compared to the general population, with a prediction interval of 1.05 to 1.45. The risk was consistently significant for various geographical regions and latitude. Heterogeneity was significant (I2 = 75%).

Conclusion

These results suggest that the incidence of prostate cancer is significantly higher in patients with melanoma compared to the general population.
On the Catalytic Activity of [RuH2(PPh3)3(CO)] (PPh3=triphenylphosphine) in Ruthenium‐Catalysed Generation of Hydrogen from Alcohols: a Combined Experimental and DFT study
Authors: Lorusso Patrizia , Ahmad Shahbaz , Brill (née Schmid) Karin , Cole‐Hamilton David J. , Sieffert Nicolas , Bühl Michael
Published: March 2020

Using density functional theory calculations (at the B97‐D2//BP86 level) and measurements of kinetic isotope effects, we explored the mechanism of [RuH2(PPh3)3(CO)] (22) in catalytic acceptor‐less dehydrogenation of methanol to formaldehyde. 22 is found to exhibit a similar activity as the previously studied [RuH2(H2)(PPh3)3] (1 b) complex. On the computed pathway, η2→η1 slippage of Ru‐bound formaldehyde prior to decoordination is indicated to be rate‐limiting, consistent with the low kH/kD KIE of 1.3 measured for this reaction. We also explored computationally the possibility of achieving complete dehydrogenation of methanol (into CO2 and H2), through subsequent decarbonylation of formaldehyde and water‐gas shift reaction of the resulting carbonyl complex. Complete pathways of this kind are traced for 22 and for [RuH2(PPh3)2(CO)2]. An alternative mechanism, involving a gem‐diol intermediate (obtained upon attack of OH− to coordinated formaldehyde), has also been investigated. All these pathways turned out to be unfavourable kinetically, in keeping with the lack of CO2 evolution experimentally observed in this system. Our calculations show that the reactions are hampered by the low electrophilicities of the CO and HCHO ligands, making OH− uptake unfavourable. Consequently, the subsequent intermediates are too high‐lying on the reaction profiles, thus leading to high kinetic barriers and preventing full dehydrogenation of methanol to occur by this kind of mechanism.
A New Dynamic Approach for N2O Decomposition by Pre‐reduced Rh/CeZrOx Catalysts
Authors: Moreau Camille , Caravaca Ángel , Vernoux Philippe , Gil Sonia
Published: March 2020

This study deals with the catalytic decomposition of N2O into harmless N2 and O2, in view of its potential application to decrease the pollution from internal combustion engines. The key of this work was to pre‐reduce a Rh/CeZrOx catalyst under a H2 based atmosphere, in order to enhance the amount of oxygen vacancies in the ceria‐based support. The results demonstrated that both, Rh species and oxygen vacancies of the ceria‐based support catalyze the N2O decomposition reaction. However, the presence of high concentrations of H2O and O2 strongly inhibited the catalytic activity. Nevertheless, small O2 concentrations maintained the performance. Therefore, the pre‐reduced Rh/CeZrOx could be potentially used for the reduction of N2O emitted by internal combustion engines working in stoichiometric conditions. In addition, a short injection of a reducing agent (e. g. H2) allowed to partially recover the initial catalytic activity of the system. All in all, this study proposes a new potential approach to mitigate the overall N2O greenhouse gas emissions.
Co2+‐coordinated NH2‐carbon Quantum Dots Hybrid Precursor for the Rational Synthesis of Co−CoOX/Co−N−C ORR Catalyst
Authors: Xu Lian‐Hua , Lu Kun‐Kun , Li Junji , Shan Dan
Published: March 2020

For the goal of practical industrial development of fuel cells, design and synthesis of electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) with sustainable and high performance are of great significance. In this work, the coordination of NH2‐carbon quantum dots (NCQDs) with Co2+ on carbon black was reasonably achieved via one‐pot and low‐cost hydrothermal treatment for the first time. Citric acid (CA) and urea (UA) were taken as carbon and nitrogen sources for NCQDs, respectively. The coordination of Co2+ and NCQDs were well‐characterized using spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR, UV‐visible absorption and fluorescence. Carbonization of carbon black‐supported Co/NCQDs at 800 °C under N2 atmosphere endows the pyrolysis products with high catalytic activity. The Co−CoOX/Co−N−C possesses enhanced ORR performance in terms of positive onset‐potential (∼‐0.079 V vs. SCE) and half wave potential (E1/2) (∼‐0.201 V vs. SCE), high stability, as well as the accelerated reaction kinetics.
Mechanistic Insights into the Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 on Cyclo[18]carbon using Density Functional Theory Calculations
Authors: Qin Binhao , Zhang Qiao , Li Yuhang , Yang Guangxing , Yu Hao , Peng Feng
Published: March 2020

Cyclo[18]carbon (C18) as a special molecular allotrope of carbon composed of two‐coordinate carbon atoms has recently been manufactured and characterized by atomic manipulation. Herein, we analyze the electrochemical reduction characteristics of carbon dioxide (CO2) on typical carbon materials (graphene, C60, carbon nanotubes and C18) using density functional calculations. Encouragingly, C18 shows excellent CO2 reduction activity compared to other carbon materials.
Human brain neurons express a novel splice variant of excitatory amino acid transporter 5 (hEAAT5v)
Authors: Lee Aven , Balcar Vladimir J. , McCombe Pamela , Pow David V.
Published: March 2020

Excitatory amino acid transporter 5 (EAAT5) is a protein that is known to be alternately spliced and to be abundantly expressed in the retina by populations of neurons including photoreceptors and bipolar cells. EAAT5 acts as a slow glutamate transporter and also as glutamate‐gated chloride channel, the chloride conductance being large enough for EAAT5 to serve functionally as an “inhibitory” glutamate receptor. However, there has been a long‐standing view that the classically spliced form of EAAT5 is not abundant or widespread in the brain and so it has not been extensively investigated in the literature. We recently identified a human‐specific splicing form of EAAT5 that was not expressed by rodents but was shown to be a functional glutamate transporter. We have examined the expression of this form of EAAT5, hEAAT5v at the mRNA, and protein level in human brain, and show that populations of human cortical pyramidal neurons and cerebellar Purkinje cells show significant expression of hEAAT5v. Accordingly, we infer that EAAT5 may well be a player in modulating neuronal function in the human brain and propose that its localization in both glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons could be compatible with a role in influencing intracellular chloride and thereby neuronal parameters such as membrane potential rather than acting as a presynaptic glutamate transporter.
Surface Energy of Black Phosphorus Alloys with Arsenic
Authors: Bouša Daniel , Otyepková Eva , Lazar Petr , Otyepka Michal , Sofer Zdeněk
Published: March 2020

Black phosphorus belongs to the most intensively studied two‐dimensional materials with many unusual properties. It is capable of forming solid solutions with arsenic, which allows continual tuning of its properties. The vapour phase transport method was used for effective synthesis of black phosphorus and its alloys with arsenic of defined composition using SnI4/Sn mineralising agent. The incorporation of arsenic up to over 50 at.% was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Structural changes were observed by X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Density functional theory calculations were used to calculate the change of lattice parameters due to alloying, to model Raman activity of the bP−As alloy and to estimate the surface energy of the alloy. The surface properties of black phosphorus and its alloys with arsenic were measured by inverse gas chromatography. Although the differences of surface energy between black phosphorus and its alloys were relatively low, the surface energy profiles were unusually flat, indicating a sparsity of high‐energy sites on the surface of the alloys.
Influence of the Chemical Compositions of Bismuth Oxyiodides on the Electroreduction of Carbon Dioxide to Formate
Authors: Wang Qizhong , Ma Meng , Zhang Shuaishuai , Lu Kangkang , Fu Lijun , Liu Xiaojing , Chen Yuhui
Published: March 2020

Bismuth oxyiodides with varying chemical compositions were fabricated to effectively electrochemical reduce CO2 to formate. Bi5O7I and Bi7O9I3 nanosheets assemble irregularly, and BiOI nanosheets form a sphere‐like structure. Compared with BiOI and Bi7O9I3, Bi5O7I exhibits an excellent Faradaic efficiency of 89 % for formate production with the partial current density of 13.2 mA/cm2 at −0.89 V vs. RHE owing to the elevated amounts of Bi metal sites reduced from Bi3+ during electrolysis. The partial current densities of formate on BiOI were higher than those on Bi7O9I3 which is attributed to the higher iodine content. The synergistic effect of bismuth and iodine of bismuth oxyiodides is responsible for their electrocatalytic properties during CO2 reduction in aqueous solutions.
QTL analysis of agronomic, fiber quality, and abiotic stress tolerance traits in a recombinant inbred population of pima cotton
Authors: Abdelraheem Abdelraheem , Fang David D. , Dever Jane , Zhang Jinfa
Published: March 2020

Pima cotton (Gossypium barbadenseL.) is grown for its superior fiber quality in four U.S. states and in several other countries. However, there is a lack of information on major and stable quantitative trait loci (QTL) for fiber quality and agronomic traits and abiotic stress tolerance across different environments. In this study, a genetic linkage map based on 403 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers was developed for the Pima S‐6/89590 intraspecific mapping population consisting of 161 recombinant inbred lines (RILs). Through the evaluation of the RIL population in seven field tests for agronomic traits and fiber quality in the four pima cotton‐growing U.S. states and four greenhouse tests for drought and salinity tolerance, a total of 156 QTL were detected. Eight QTL clusters and four hotspots were further identified, and many of the QTL and their clusters and hotspots were consistent with previous studies that will be useful for marker‐assisted selection. Using a basic local alignment search tool (BLAST) search against the sequenced Pima 3‐79 genome, 26, 16, 32, 14, 127, and 14 candidate genes were predicted for 15 stable QTL on six chromosomes (chromosomes 3, 10, 12, 19, 21, and 24, respectively), for fiber quality traits and abiotic stress tolerance. These genomic regions were rich in genes related to fiber developments and abiotic stress responses. This study provides important information on new and stable QTL across environments for developing superior American pima cotton.
Optimization of the selection of cluster‐head using fuzzy logic and harmony search in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Agrawal Deepika , Pandey Sudhakar
Published: March 2020

Wireless sensor networks (WSN) encompasses millions of nodes that work jointly, senses environmental information, and transmits to the Base Station (BS). “Energy hole” or “hot‐spot” is a problem in which sensor nodes near to the BS deceasetoo early which creates the partitioning of the network. This is due to the reason of the difference in the consumption of energy by the nodes in WSN which reduces the lifespan of the sensor network. The distribution of the cluster heads and the load balancing are the major pitfalls. In this paper to deal with the statedpitfalls, a hybrid of fuzzy logic technique and harmony search algorithm is proposed to lengthen the lifetime of the network. Unequal clustering is a technique proposed by the researchers to handle the hot‐spot issue, hence it is also included. The proposed algorithm forms unequal clusters. To prove the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, some well‐known unequal clustering algorithms and harmony search based algorithmare used to compare the proposed algorithm under different network settings. In all the settings, better performance is achieved by the proposed protocol. It prolongs the lifespan of the network as compared to the different algorithms proposed so far.
Diabetic foot disease: “The Times They are A Changin’ ”
Authors: Bus Sicco A. , van Netten Jaap J. , Monteiro‐Soares Matilde , Lipsky Benjamin A. , Schaper Nicolaas C.
Published: March 2020

Diabetic foot disease greatly impacts both affected patients and society, but remains the “Cinderella” of diabetes‐related complications. However, recent progress in research and guideline development have led to increased awareness of the problem and improved clinical outcomes. Thus, it is time for a shift in global perception of this increasingly prevalent problem. In this special issue, we present 7 up‐to‐date clinical guidelines and 10 systematic reviews developed by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot, together with 17 informative and stimulating related papers. These guidelines offer new recommendations on ulcer classification, diagnosis of infection severity, and vascular assessment, to assist in ulcer risk stratification, diagnosis and interdisciplinary communication. Key developments include providing guidance on methodological assessment of research papers; expanding the evidence base for ulcer treatment by the use of wound products and offloading treatment and suggestions for improving ulcer prevention through technological advances in patient monitoring of risk factors and footwear. The 17 invited papers discuss related topics ranging from stem cell research to patient psychology and describe the way forward in diabetic foot care. While there is much more to learn, the new knowledge of underlying pathways, advancements in diagnosis, treatment and prevention presented in this supplement should help improve outcomes and reduce the great and growing burden of diabetic foot disease.
Guidelines on use of interventions to enhance healing of chronic foot ulcers in diabetes (IWGDF 2019 update)
Authors: Rayman Gerry , Vas Prashanth , Dhatariya Ketan , Driver Vickie , Hartemann Agnes , Londahl Magnus , Piaggesi Alberto , Apelqvist Jan , Attinger Chris , Game Fran ,   on behalf of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF)
Published: March 2020

The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) has published evidence‐based guidelines on the prevention and management of diabetic foot disease since 1999. In conjunction with advice from internal and external reviewers and expert consultants in the field, this update is based on a systematic review of the literature centred on the following: the Population (P), Intervention (I), Comparator (C) and Outcomes (O) framework; the use of the SIGN guideline/Cochrane review system; and the 21 point scoring system advocated by IWGDF/EWMA. This has resulted in 13 recommendations. The recommendation on sharp debridement and the selection of dressings remain unchanged from the last recommendations published in 2016. The recommendation to consider negative pressure wound therapy in post‐surgical wounds and the judicious use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in certain non‐healing ischaemic ulcers also remains unchanged. Recommendations against the use of growth factors, autologous platelet gels, bioengineered skin products, ozone, topical carbon dioxide, nitric oxide or interventions reporting improvement of ulcer healing through an alteration of the physical environment or through other systemic medical or nutritional means also remain. New recommendations include consideration of the use of sucrose‐octasulfate impregnated dressings in difficult to heal neuro‐ischaemic ulcers and consideration of the use of autologous combined leucocyte, platelet and fibrin patch in ulcers that are difficult to heal, in both cases when used in addition to best standard of care. A further new recommendation is the consideration of topical placental derived products when used in addition to best standard of care.
Determination of ethyl glucuronide in human hair samples: Decontamination vs extraction
Authors: Müller Alexander , Iwersen‐Bergmann Stefanie
Published: March 2020

Decontamination of samples prior to analysis is common practice and recommended for ethyl glucuronide (EtG) hair testing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applied decontamination procedure during routine hair EtG analysis by monitoring the ethyl glucuronide concentrations in the washing solutions from a representative cohort of individual hair samples. Hair samples from 150 individuals were tested for hair EtG by a validated routine procedure (liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry). A four‐step decontamination procedure (ethanol, water, acetone, dichloromethane) was applied to all samples prior to analysis. Hair samples from 20 individuals were analyzed along with the complete set of individual washing solutions. Hair samples from an additional 130 individuals were analyzed along with the corresponding aqueous wash fraction only. No EtG was detected in the washing solutions from hair samples that tested negative for EtG (n = 42). Hair samples positive for ethyl glucuronide (n = 108) were found to liberate different amounts of EtG during decontamination: whereas no, or low portions of, EtG (< 10% of extracted hair EtG) were found in the corresponding washing solutions of the majority (n = 91) of individual samples, there was a minority of samples (n = 6) with more than half of the extracted hair EtG present in the decontamination solvent. No correlation of the decontaminated amount of EtG and the extracted hair EtG was observed. Further experimental studies are necessary to investigate if the observed easily removable fraction of EtG is associated with external contamination and if analysis of wash solutions could be helpful for identifying external contamination in hair testing for ethyl glucuronide.
Introducing an egocentric method to explore information flow in a postflood governance network
Authors: Witting Antje , Brandenstein Frederik , Satoh Keiichi
Published: March 2020

Governance networks that are affected by, and that must respond to, wicked problems, such as flooding, are highly complex. While we cannot capture all the social interactions that underly these structures, we can realistically describe this complexity from the perspective of the involved individuals. Thus, the article presented here addresses the question how to take into consideration the individuals' egocentric perspective in the analysis of governance networks that respond to wicked problems. In response to this question we offer concrete methodological guidelines for readers who wish to systematically map and compare egocentric networks. We demonstrate the usefulness of this template with an integrated analysis of the networks of four individuals who operate in a postflood governance context in Germany. We also present evidence that the template produces reliable data on the density, mutuality, and breadth of individuals' networks that support realistic and comparable descriptions.
Mitral and tricuspid stenosis caused by light chain cardiac amyloid deposition
Authors: Randhawa Varinder K. , Vakamudi Sneha , Phelan Dermot M. , Samaras Christy J. , McKenney Jesse K. , Hanna Mazen , Perez Antonio L.
Published: March 2020

Cardiac amyloidosis results in an infiltrative restrictive cardiomyopathy, with a number of characteristic features: biventricular hypertrophy, abnormal myocardial global longitudinal strain with relative apical sparing, biatrial dilation, and small pericardial effusion along with conduction abnormalities. Amyloid deposits leading to hemodynamically significant valvular heart disease are very rare. We describe a rare case of concomitant moderately severe tricuspid and mitral valve stenosis because of ongoing amyloid deposition in a patient with progressive multiple myeloma and fat pad biopsy‐proven light chain amyloidosis. Worsening infiltrative cardiomyopathy and valvulopathy despite evidence‐based chemotherapy and heart failure pharmacotherapy led to end‐stage disease and death. Valvular involvement in cardiac amyloidosis requires early recognition of the underlying disease condition to guide directed medical therapy and prevent its progression. In this instance, valvuloplasty or valve replacement is not a viable option.
A Semiconducting Cationic Square‐Grid Network with FeIII Centers Displaying Unusual Dynamic Behavior
Authors: Hudson Timothy. A. , Sutton Ashley L. , Abrahams Brendan F. , D'Alessandro Deanna M. , Davies Casey G. , Goerigk Lars , Jameson Guy N. L. , Moubaraki Boujemaa , Murray Keith S. , Robson Richard , Usov Pavel M. , Yang Guochun
Published: March 2020

The synthesis, structure and properties of a 2D FeIII network material of composition [Fe(O‐bipy)2Cl](TCNQ)2 (O‐bipy = 4,4'‐bipyridyl N,N'‐dioxide; TCNQ = 7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane) are presented. The structure consists of a square grid in which square pyramidal FeIII centers are linked to four equivalent centers through O‐bipy ligands. Pairs of TCNQ radical anions are located within rectangular cavities of the 2D network. The apical position on each Fe center is occupied by a chloride ion. Magnetic studies are indicative of weak antiferromagnetic coupling. Electrical conductivity measurements reveal that the compound is a semiconductor and on the basis of DFT calculations it is proposed that electrical conduction occurs via charge hopping between interlayer TCNQ anions. Mössbauer spectra indicate a rare example of the Goldanskii–Karyagin effect and are suggestive of unusual dynamic processes.
A survey of security and privacy issues in the Internet of Things from the layered context
Authors: Deep Samundra , Zheng Xi , Jolfaei Alireza , Yu Dongjin , Ostovari Pouya , Kashif Bashir Ali
Published: March 2020

Internet of Things (IoT) is a novel paradigm, which not only facilitates a large number of devices to be ubiquitously connected over the Internet but also provides a mechanism to remotely control these devices. The IoT is pervasive and is almost an integral part of our daily life. These connected devices often obtain user's personal data and store it online. The security of collected data is a big concern in recent times. As devices are becoming increasingly connected, privacy and security issues become more and more critical and these need to be addressed on an urgent basis. IoT implementations and devices are eminently prone to threats that could compromise the security and privacy of the consumers, which, in turn, could influence its practical deployment. In recent past, some research has been carried out to secure IoT devices with an intention to alleviate the security concerns of users. There have been research on blockchain technologies to tackle the privacy and security issues of the collected data in IoT. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the security and privacy issues in IoT systems. To this effect, the paper examines the security issues at each layer in the IoT protocol stack, identifies the under‐lying challenges and key security requirements and provides a brief overview of existing security solutions to safeguard the IoT from the layered context.
Mechanical stretch induces myelin protein loss in oligodendrocytes by activating Erk1/2 in a calcium‐dependent manner
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Adams Alexandra A. , Gokina Pradeepa , Zambrano Brayan , Jayakumaran Jeyanthan , Dobrowolski Radek , Maurel Patrice , Pfister Bryan J. , Kim Haesun A.
Published: March 2020

Myelin loss in the brain is a common occurrence in traumatic brain injury (TBI) that results from impact‐induced acceleration forces to the head. Fast and abrupt head motions, either resulting from violent blows and/or jolts, cause rapid stretching of the brain tissue, and the long axons within the white matter tracts are especially vulnerable to such mechanical strain. Recent studies have shown that mechanotransduction plays an important role in regulating oligodendrocyte progenitors cell differentiation into oligodendrocytes. However, little is known about the impact of mechanical strain on mature oligodendrocytes and the stability of their associated myelin sheaths. We used an in vitro cellular stretch device to address these questions, as well as characterize a mechanotransduction mechanism that mediates oligodendrocyte responses. Mechanical stretch caused a transient and reversible myelin protein loss in oligodendrocytes. Cell death was not observed. Myelin protein loss was accompanied by an increase in intracellular Ca2+ and Erk1/2 activation. Chelating Ca2+ or inhibiting Erk1/2 activation was sufficient to block the stretch‐induced loss of myelin protein. Further biochemical analyses revealed that the stretch‐induced myelin protein loss was mediated by the release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and subsequent Ca2+‐dependent activation of Erk1/2. Altogether, our findings characterize an Erk1/2‐dependent mechanotransduction mechanism in mature oligodendrocytes that de‐stabilizes the myelination program.
Updating and Road-testing Life Cycle Inventory Data Review Criteria: Toward Global Consensus and Guidance On Data Quality Assessment
Authors: Sonnemann Guido , Schrijvers Dieuwertje , Asselin Anne , Poolsawad Nongnuch , Mungkalasiri Jitti , Grant Tim , Loyola Cristobal , Vigon Bruce
Published: March 2020

Data quality of life cycle inventory background databases should be ensured in order to be useful for life cycle assessment (LCA) studies. However, databases do not always have procedures to evaluate the quality of the data sets in place. The Global Guidance Principles for LCA Databases of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in collaboration with the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) provide, among others, recommendations to enhance data quality through improved documentation and review. Flagship 2a in Phase 3 of the UNEP/SETAC Life Cycle Initiative aimed to enable the practical implementation of these recommendations with the development of review criteria and the testing of these criteria on 3 national databases. After a pilot-testing phase, this project entered a more mature road-testing exercise, of which the results are presented in this paper. The review criteria have been updated and provide more emphasis on goal and scope documentation completeness and include a new cluster of criteria that evaluate the materiality of the data set. The updated criteria have been applied to national databases of Thailand, Australia, and Chile. All databases would benefit from additional documentation, for example, on system boundaries, the reference model, sampling procedures, and cut-off criteria. Furthermore, conducting the review was enabled by extensive documentation and data accessibility in LCA software. Communication of the criteria to the database managers enabled them to anticipate data quality requirements of the global LCA community and improve the data sets in advance. Reviewers sometimes had a different interpretation of the criteria, which suggests that there is room for additional fine-tuning of the process guidance and exemplification of review criteria. This project has demonstrated that the criteria are applicable to and provide useful feedback for databases with different levels of maturity and contribute to improving quality of life cycle inventory (LCI) data. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:517–524. © 2020 SETAC
Long‐term exposure to air pollution and risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in Denmark: A population‐based case–control study
Authors: Taj Tahir , Poulsen Aslak H. , Ketzel Matthias , Geels Camilla , Brandt Jørgen , Christensen Jesper H. , Puett Robin , Hvidtfeldt Ulla A. , Sørensen Mette , Raaschou‐Nielsen Ole
Published: March 2020

There is limited evidence regarding a possible association between exposure to ambient air pollutants and the risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Previous epidemiological studies have relied on crude estimations for air pollution exposure and/or small numbers of NHL cases. The objective of our study was to analyze this association based on air pollution modeled at the address level and NHL cases identified from the nationwide Danish Cancer Registry. We identified 20,874 incident NHL cases diagnosed between 1989 and 2014 and randomly selected 41,749 controls matched on age and gender among the entire Danish population. We used conditional logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and adjusted for individual and neighborhood level sociodemographic variables. There was no association between exposure to PM2.5, BC, O3, SO2 or NO2 and overall risk of NHL but several air pollutants were associated with higher risk of follicular lymphoma, but statistically insignificant, for example, PM2.5 (OR = 1.15 per 5 μg/m3; 95% CI: 0.98–1.34) and lower risk for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (OR = 0.92 per 5 μg/m3; 95% CI: 0.82–1.03). In this population‐based study, we did not observe any convincing evidence of a higher overall risk for NHL with higher exposure to ambient air pollutants.
Development of biodegradable membranes for the delivery of a bioactive chitosan‐derivative on cartilage defects: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Scognamiglio Francesca , Travan Andrea , Borgogna Massimiliano , Donati Ivan , Marsich Eleonora
Published: March 2020

Biodegradable membranes for cartilage applications were manufactured starting from polymeric networks of a lactose‐modified chitosan (CTL), previously proposed for chondrocytes stimulation. This implantable biomaterial was conceived as a reservoir of a bioactive polymer that could promote the activity of chondrocytes and the healing of cartilage defects. Freeze‐drying of reticulated hydrogels enabled to obtain pliable membranes with a homogeneous polymeric texture, as pointed out by scanning electron microscopy analyses. Swelling tests and dimensional evaluations showed that the material is able to absorb physiological fluids and expand gradually upon rehydration. This feature was evaluated on a simulated cartilage defect on pig's humerus (ex vivo), which revealed the capability of the membranes to progressively fit the tissue voids on the damaged cartilage. The rheological properties of the rehydrated membranes pointed out their peculiar strain‐stiffening behavior, which represents a promising feature for the regeneration of tissues subjected to variable mechanical loads and deformations. Biological in vitro studies demonstrated the biocompatibility of the membranes in contact with primary chondrocytes and osteoblasts. Taken together, these results represent a starting point for the development of a novel generation of implantable biomaterials for cartilage treatment based on CTL.
Leadership that promotes successful implementation of community‐based mental health interventions
Authors: McNeish Roxann , Tran Quynh
Published: March 2020

Community‐based interventions (CBIs) have become an effective approach to promote mental well‐being. To increase organizational capacity and effectively deliver CBIs, leadership is crucial. The current study aims to identify leadership qualities that are facilitators of CBI implementation. This paper presents evaluation findings from a national effort emphasizing CBIs for improving the mental well‐being of men and boys in 16 local communities. The study utilized a mixed‐method design, including both examining each grantee as a case study and conducting a cross‐site evaluation. Findings revealed five leadership qualities that contributed to CBIs' success: personal vision, value‐based leadership, relationship‐oriented leadership, task‐oriented leadership, and leadership development. The results outline strategies for strengthening organizational capacity through these leadership qualities. This study adds to the limited literature on leadership qualities that strengthen organizational capacity to successfully implement CBIs and can serve as a guide for funders, program planners, and evaluators.
Actual and estimated adenoma detection rates: a 2‐year monocentric colonoscopic screening outcome in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Zeng Li , Chua Eng G. , Xiong Ying , Ding Shihua , Ai Hui , Hou Zhibo , Loke Mun F. , Goh Khean L. , Tay Chin Y. , Marshall Barry J. , Zhu Fuqiang , Sun Dayong
Published: March 2020

Background and Aim

While adenoma detection rate (ADR) is an important quality metric for screening colonoscopy, it remains difficult to be accessed due to the lack of integrated endoscopy and pathology databases. Hence, the use of an adenoma‐to‐polyp detection rate quotient and polyp detection rate (PDR) has been proposed to predict ADR. This study aimed to examine the usefulness of estimated ADR across different colonic segments in two age groups for Shenzhen people in China.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 7329 colonoscopy procedures performed by 12 endoscopists between January 2012 and February 2014. The PDR, actual ADR, and estimated ADR of the entire, proximal, and distal colon, and within each colonic segment, in two patient age groups: <50 and ≥50 years, were calculated for each endoscopist.

Results

The overall polyp and adenoma prevalence rates were 19.1 and 9.3%, respectively. The average age of adenoma‐positive patients was significantly higher than that of adenoma‐negative patients (54 ± 12.6 years vs 42.9 ± 13.2 years, respectively). A total of 1739 polyps were removed, among which 826 were adenomas. More adenomatous polyps were found in the proximal colon (60.4%, 341/565) than in the distal colon (40.9%, 472/1154). Overall, both actual and estimated ADR correlated strongly at the entire colon level and within most colonic segments, except for the cecum and rectum. In both age groups, these parameters correlated strongly within the traverse colon and descending colon.

Conclusion

Caution should be exercised when predicting ADR within the sigmoid colon and rectum.
Purification and antioxidant capacity analysis of anthocyanin glucoside cinnamic ester isomers from Solanum nigrum fruits
Authors: Meng XuanLin , Li Yang , Lu Chongchong , Zhao Man , Li Ming , Wang ShaoLi , Zhao ChangBao , Lin Bao , Shang LuYue , Chu Zhaohui , Ding Xinhua
Published: March 2020

In a recent study, anthocyanins, which have a strong free radical‐scavenging activity, were examined for their potential to effectively prevent cancer. However, clinical trials are limited by the purity of the anthocyanin. Multiple methods are used to extract and purify anthocyanins. Based on previous work on Solanum nigrum, which is a widely distributed plant, in this study, DM130 macroporous resin, Sephadex LH20, and a C18 column were used to separate cis–trans anthocyanin isomers. These anthocyanins constitute the majority of total S. nigrum anthocyanins. The results showed that this “DM130‐LH20‐C18 system” can be used to obtain a cinnamic acid‐derived cis–trans anthocyanin, petunidin‐3‐(p‐coumaroyl)‐rutinoside‐5‐glucoside, with a purity of 98.5%, for effective quantitation. In order to determine the antioxidant ability of the petunidin‐3‐(p‐coumaroyl)‐rutinoside‐5‐glucoside cis–trans isomers, three ordinary methods were adopted. The maximum antioxidant ability of the cis–trans anthocyanin was dozens of times higher than that of vitamin C.
Preparation of magnetic attapulgite/polypyrrole nanocomposites for magnetic effervescence‐assisted dispersive solid‐phase extraction of pyrethroids from honey samples
Authors: Yang Xiaoling , Mi Yiduo , Liu Fang , Li Jing , Gao Haixiang , Zhang Sanbing , Zhou Wenfeng , Lu Runhua
Published: March 2020

In this work, a novel extraction technique based on the effervescence‐assisted dispersion and magnetic recovery of attapulgite/polypyrrole sorbents was developed for determining the concentrations of five pyrethroids in honey samples. The magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized by a one‐pot method. Several experimental parameters that affected the extraction efficiency, including the dispersion conditions, pH, ionic strength, and desorption conditions, were investigated. Under optimal conditions, the calibration curves for the five pyrethroids in honey samples exhibited good linearity, with r2 values ranging from 0.9979 to 0.9990. The limits of detection varied between 0.21 and 0.34 µg/L. Satisfactory recoveries of 81.42–106.73% with intra‐ and interday relative standard deviations of less than 6.94 and 10.89%, respectively, were obtained. Moreover, the sorbents exhibited acceptable batch‐to‐batch repeatability in the range of 5.06–15.01%, and each sorbent could be reused for up to four extraction cycles without a significant loss in the extraction recovery.
Labyrinthine concussion: Historic otopathologic antecedents of a challenging diagnosis
Authors: Bartholomew Ryan A. , Lubner Rory J. , Knoll Renata M. , Ghanad Iman , Jung David , Nadol Joseph B. , Alvarez Victor E. , Remenschneider Aaron , Kozin Elliott D.
Published: March 2020

Objective

The term “labyrinthine concussion” has evolved to mean audiovestibular dysfunction in the absence of a temporal bone fracture (TBF). Despite a multitude of case descriptions of labyrinthine concussion, the precise pathophysiology remains poorly understood. Herein, we explore the historical otopathologic underpinnings of the diagnosis of labyrinthine concussion with a focus on the auditory pathway during the late 19th to the mid‐20th centuries and conclude with a discussion of its contemporary relevance.

Methods and Data Sources

A review of primary and secondary medical sources written in English, German, and French on otopathology labyrinthine concussion studies from the late‐19th to the mid‐20th centuries.

Results

Around the turn of the 20th century, otopathologists identified histologic changes in the temporal bones of individuals that sustained head injury without TBFs. Based on these otopathologic findings in humans, early experiments investigating the pathophysiology of labyrinthine concussion were performed in animals through either the delivery of blows to the head or direct introduction of a pressure wave into the labyrinthine fluid. Collectively, otopathologists hypothesized that predominant mechanisms for labyrinthine concussion included inner ear hemorrhage, cochleovestibular nerve traction injury, direct damage from a labyrinthine fluid pressure wave, or vasomotor dysfunction.

Conclusion

Historical study shows a variety of inner ear pathologies potentially responsible for auditory dysfunction following head injury. Understanding the history and otopathology of labyrinthine concussion may help clinicians focus on new pathways toward novel research and improved patient care.
Efficacy and Safety of Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization in Abdominal Skin Laxity: A Randomized, Comparative Study
Authors: Vachiramon Vasanop , Triyangkulsri Korn , Iamsumang Wimolsiri , Chayavichitsilp Pamela
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

Microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU‐V) has been approved for the treatment of skin laxity on several areas including the eyebrows, neck, and submental area. This study aims to determine the efficacy of MFU‐V for the treatment of abdominal skin laxity using two different treatment protocols.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Thirty female patients with abdominal skin laxity were enrolled. Each side of the abdomen was randomly assigned to receive a single session of single‐plane MFU‐V treatment (4.5 mm) or dual‐plane MFU‐V treatment (4.5 and 3.0 mm). Improvement scores (0–10) were assigned by a blinded physician and patients at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment.

Results

Twenty‐eight female patients completed the study. The physician‐evaluated mean improvement scores in single‐plane treatment were 3.03 (±1.26), 3.43 (±1.35), and 2.18 (±0.86) at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month follow‐up, respectively. For dual‐plane treatment, the scores were 3.11 (±1.23), 3.39 (±1.34), and 2.02 (±0.79). There was no statistically significant difference between single‐ and dual‐plane treatment at each time point. A similar pattern of improvement was observed in patient‐rated mean improvement scores. Patients who had undergone childbirth had significantly higher physician and patient‐rated mean improvement scores than those who had not in both single‐ and dual‐plane treatments. In addition, a significant reduction of mean waist circumference was observed in patients who had undergone childbirth. The median pain scores were 5.25 for single‐plane treatment and 4.29 for dual‐plane treatment (P = 0.20).

Conclusion

Both single‐ and dual‐plane MFU‐V treatments showed comparable efficacies in treating abdominal skin laxity. The effect is more pronounced in patients who had undergone childbirth. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of histidine as an electrolyte additive on the electrochemical performance of Al electrodes in 4.0 M KOH electrolyte
Authors: Wang Zuokai , Hou Changsheng , Wang Guixiang
Published: March 2020

In this study, the influence of histidine as an electrolyte additive on the electrochemical performance of Al electrodes in 4.0 M KOH electrolyte is studied by measuring open‐circuit potential–time curves, potentiodynamic polarization, potentiostatic oxidation, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The surface morphology of Al electrodes is characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the battery performance is significantly improved by adding histidine. Samples with 50 mM histidine exhibit the highest corrosion resistance and discharging current density among all the specimens, with the corrosion current density (Icorr) being 7.471 mA/cm2 and corrosion inhibition efficiency (η) being 43.33%.