bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Hybrid Light Harvesting Antenna Based on Silicon Nanowires and Metal Dendrimers
Authors: Leonardi Antonio Alessio , Nastasi Francesco , Morganti Dario , Lo Faro Maria Josè , Picca Rosaria Anna , Cioffi Nicola , Franzò Giorgia , Serroni Scolastica , Priolo Francesco , Puntoriero Fausto , Campagna Sebastiano , Irrera Alessia
Published: October 2020

The realization of low‐cost silicon (Si) light harvesting antennas, made with industrially compatible technology and implementable in current devices, represents a goal with a tremendous impact for several commercial applications. For the first time, the use of Si nanowires (NWs) as energy donor in a light harvesting antenna is demonstrated. Through a detailed study of the optical properties, an energy transfer process from the NWs to the dyes is reported here. In this paper, the realization of this novel hybrid material based on the luminescence of ultra‐thin Si NWs and dyes demonstrates the potential of these systems for the transfer of light, opening the route to several strategic applications from photonics to photovoltaics, sensors, and bio‐imaging.
A simple high‐throughput protocol for the extraction and quantification of inorganic phosphate in rice leaves
Authors: Pinit Sompop , Chadchawan Supachitra , Chaiwanon Juthamas
Published: October 2020

Premise

Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient that is often limited in agricultural systems. Determining inorganic phosphate (Pi) contents of plant tissues is crucial for evaluating plant P status. Here, we present a simple, high‐throughput colorimetric microplate technique to measure Pi contents in rice (Oryza sativa) leaf tissues, based on the molybdenum blue reaction.

Methods and Results

We used a hole puncher to sample small equal areas of leaf tissue for Pi extraction. We removed the leaf grinding and weighing steps, which are time‐consuming and normally required to release Pi from the tissues and to measure the biomass for data normalization, respectively. We showed that the punching method yielded comparable results to the conventional grinding method for two rice cultivars grown under various levels of P supply.

Conclusions

Compared with existing techniques, this protocol is more suited to an initial screening, enabling one researcher to determine the Pi contents of thousands of rice leaf samples within a few hours.
The Sima de los Huesos Middle Pleistocene hominin site (Burgos, Spain). Estimation of the number of individuals
Authors: Bermúdez de Castro José María , Martínez Ignacio , Gracia‐Téllez Ana , Martinón‐Torres María , Arsuaga Juan Luis
Published: October 2020

After 34 years of research and findings in the Middle Pleistocene site of the Sima de los Huesos (SH) of the Sierra de Atapuerca (Burgos, Spain), we present an update of the estimation of the number of individuals (ENI) identified in the SH hominin assemblage. The last ENI, published in 2004, was 28. Although the number of specimens recovered has almost doubled since then and more complete information is now available, this new analysis suggests that the ENI is 29. Some individuals are still represented by only one or a few teeth and the upper and lower jaws of various individuals have not been completed. We suggest that the amateur cavers, who accessed the SH site for years looking for bear fossils, destroyed a significant number of hominin fossils. Despite this, we have a good picture of the group of hominins represented in the SH assemblage. Because complete corpses were accumulated in SH and it is a closed cavity, it is expected that a significant number of hominin fossils remains to be discovered. According to the previous estimates, the representation of females is greater than that of males. However, the observed sex ratio is not significantly different from the 1:1 ratio. With the exception of the possible presence of a child individual, most of the remaining 28 individuals are teenagers or young adults (24/28 = 0.857). The ages of death of SH hominins appear to conform to a catastrophic profile.
Vocalization by extant nonavian reptiles: A synthetic overview of phonation and the vocal apparatus
Authors: Russell Anthony P. , Bauer Aaron M.
Published: October 2020

Among amniote vertebrates, nonavian reptiles (chelonians, crocodilians, and lepidosaurs) are regarded as using vocal signals rarely (compared to birds and mammals). In all three reptilian clades, however, certain taxa emit distress calls and advertisement calls using modifications of regions of the upper respiratory tract. There is no central tendency in either acoustic mechanisms or the structure of the vocal apparatus, and many taxa that vocalize emit only relatively simple sounds. Available evidence indicates multiple origins of true vocal abilities within these lineages. Reptiles thus provide opportunities for studying the early evolutionary stages of vocalization. The early literature on the diversity of form of the laryngotracheal apparatus of reptiles boded well for the study of form‐function relationships, but this potential was not extensively explored. Emphasis shifted away from anatomy, however, and centered instead on acoustic analysis of the sounds that are produced. New investigative techniques have provided novel ways of studying the form‐function aspects of the structures involved in phonation and have brought anatomical investigation to the forefront again. In this review we summarize what is known about hearing in reptiles in order to contextualize the vocal signals they generate and the sound‐producing mechanisms responsible for them. The diversity of form of the sound producing apparatus and the increasing evidence that reptiles are more dependent upon vocalization as a communication medium than previously thought indicates that they have a significant role to play in the understanding of the evolution of vocalization in amniotes.
Skull diversity and evolution in miniaturized amphibians, genus Brachycephalus (Anura: Brachycephalidae)
Authors: dos Reis Sérgio F. , Clemente‐Carvalho Rute B. G. , dos Santos Caio M. S. F. F. , Lopes Ricardo T. , Von Zuben Fernando J. , Laborda Prianda R. , Perez S. Ivan
Published: October 2020

Miniaturized amphibians of the genus Brachycephalus are phenotypically diverse. The species of Brachycephalus have bufoniform or leptodactyliform Baupläne and any of three skeletal states: nonhyperossified, hyperossified without dorsal shield, and hyperossified with dorsal shield. We integrate high‐resolution microcomputed tomography, geometric morphometrics, and an estimate of molecular phylogenetic relationships to investigate skull diversity in shape and size‐shape space in selected species of Brachycephalus. Skull diversity amongst species of Brachycephalus can be partitioned into shape and size‐shape space according to the four conditions of skeletal states‐Baupläne, namely, nonhyperossified leptodactyliform, nonhyperossified bufoniform, hyperossified bufoniform without dorsal shield, and hyperossified bufoniform with dorsal shield. Skull diversity in shape and size‐shape space in nonhyperossified leptodactyliform species of Brachycephalus is markedly larger, when compared to skull diversity in species of the three other conditions of skeletal states‐Baupläne. Variation in skull shape scales with size across Brachycephalus and, therefore, can be explained by allometry. Skull diversity, Baupläne, and skeletal states covary to a large extent with monophyletic lineages of Brachycephalus, as revealed by a mitochondrial DNA species tree. Nonhyperossified bufoniform species and hyperossified bufoniform species with or without dorsal shield are monophyletic lineages, as inferred from a mitochondrial DNA species tree. Nonhyperossified leptodactyliform species of Brachycephalus do not share, however, a most recent common ancestor. The nonhyperossified leptodactyliform species of Brachycephalus, due to their marked skull diversity and lack of monophyly, emerge as evolutionarily complex. Therefore, further sampling of the nonhyperossified leptodactyliform condition of skeletal states‐Baupläne will be necessary to further understand the evolutionary history of Brachycephalus.
Environmental mechanisms of orofacial clefts
Authors: Garland Michael A. , Reynolds Kurt , Zhou Chengji J.
Published: October 2020

Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most common birth defects and impart a significant burden on afflicted individuals and their families. It is increasingly understood that many nonsyndromic OFCs are a consequence of extrinsic factors, genetic susceptibilities, and interactions of the two. Therefore, understanding the environmental mechanisms of OFCs is important in the prevention of future cases. This review examines the molecular mechanisms associated with environmental factors that either protect against or increase the risk of OFCs. We focus on essential metabolic pathways, environmental signaling mechanisms, detoxification pathways, behavioral risk factors, and biological hazards that may disrupt orofacial development.
A 2019 global update on folic acid‐preventable spina bifida and anencephaly
Authors: Kancherla Vijaya , Wagh Kaustubh , Pachón Helena , Oakley Godfrey P.
Published: October 2020

Background

Mandatory folic acid fortification of staples is a proven intervention to prevent spina bifida and anencephaly, two life‐threatening and disabling neural tube defects. We estimated the global proportion of folic acid‐preventable spina bifida and anencephaly (FAP SBA) prevented through mandatory folic acid fortification of wheat and/or maize flour in 2019.

Methods

Using data from the Global Fortification Data Exchange, we identified countries with mandatory fortification policies that required at least 1.0 ppm folic acid be added to wheat and/or maize flour and had information on percentage of industrially milled flour that is fortified. We built FAP SBA prevention models assuming mandatory folic acid fortification at 200 μg/day of folic acid fully protects against FAP SBA and would lower the prevalence neural tube defects to 0.5 per 1,000 live births.

Results

In 2019, 56 countries met our criteria for mandatory folic acid fortification of wheat (n = 56 countries) and/or maize (n = 15 countries) flour and with complete data for our modeling. Overall, our prevention model estimated that 65,380 FAP SBA cases were prevented in 2019 through folic acid fortification of wheat and/or maize flour. We estimated the current global prevention proportion of all preventable FAP SBA cases worldwide to be at 23% of total possible prevention.

Conclusion

Global prevention efforts for FAP SBA are slow and have stalled. Mandatory fortification should be urgently implemented in all countries to prevent epidemics of FAP SBA, and to achieve health‐related Sustainable Development Goals for year 2030 by reducing child mortality due to preventable FAP SBA.
How a Bismuth(III) Catalyst Achieves Greatest Activation of Organic Lewis Bases in a Catalytic Reaction: Insights from DFT Calculations
Authors: Babaahmadi Rasool , Jalali Mona , Smith Jason A. , Yates Brian F. , Ariafard Alireza
Published: October 2020

Density functional theory (DFT) was utilized to understand how bismuth(III) salts (BiX3) achieve greatest activation of organic Lewis bases in a catalytic reaction. It is reported in the literature that the BiX3 reactivity originates from its low lying Bi−X σ* orbital. In contrast to this belief, we will show here that for BiX3 to effectively serve as a catalyst, a p orbital of bismuth needs to be involved in activating organic substrates.
Titanium Niobium Oxide Ti2Nb10O29/Carbon Hybrid Electrodes Derived by Mechanochemically Synthesized Carbide for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Budak Öznil , Srimuk Pattarachai , Aslan Mesut , Shim Hwirim , Borchardt Lars , Presser Volker
Published: October 2020

This work introduces the facile and scalable two‐step synthesis of Ti2Nb10O29 (TNO)/carbon hybrid material as a promising anode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The first step consisted of a mechanically induced self‐sustaining reaction via ball‐milling at room temperature to produce titanium niobium carbide with a Ti and Nb stoichiometric ratio of 1 to 5. The second step involved the oxidation of as‐synthesized titanium niobium carbide to produce TNO. Synthetic air yielded fully oxidized TNO, while annealing in CO2 resulted in TNO/carbon hybrids. The electrochemical performance for the hybrid and non‐hybrid electrodes was surveyed in a narrow potential window (1.0–2.5 V vs. Li/Li+) and a large potential window (0.05–2.5 V vs. Li/Li+). The best hybrid material displayed a specific capacity of 350 mAh g−1 at a rate of 0.01 A g−1 (144 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1) in the large potential window regime. The electrochemical performance of hybrid materials was superior compared to non‐hybrid materials for operation within the large potential window. Due to the advantage of carbon in hybrid material, the rate handling was faster than that of the non‐hybrid one. The hybrid materials displayed robust cycling stability and maintained ca. 70 % of their initial capacities after 500 cycles. In contrast, only ca. 26 % of the initial capacity was maintained after the first 40 cycles for non‐hybrid materials. We also applied our hybrid material as an anode in a full‐cell lithium‐ion battery by coupling it with commercial LiMn2O4.
The intra‐individual stability of GH biomarkers IGF‐I and P‐III‐NP in relation to GHRH administration, menstrual cycle, and hematological parameters
Authors: Ericsson Magnus , Bhuiyan Hasanuzzaman , Yousif Basam , Lehtihet Mikael , Ekström Lena
Published: October 2020

The intra‐individual stability of growth hormone (GH) biomarkers IGF‐I, P‐III‐NP, calculated GH‐2000 score in relation to growth hormone‐releasing hormone (GHRH) (Somatorelin) administration, menstrual cycle, and hematological parameters were investigated in four men and eight women, respectively. Moreover, the hematological parameters hemoglobin (Hb) and percentage of reticulocyte (RET%) were statistically analyzed in relation to the GH biomarker parameters for the GHRH administration study and the menstrual cycle study. Longitudinal monitoring of IGF‐I and/or GH‐2000 score proved to be a viable approach to detect the GHRH intake in men, as all four participants show values above individually calculated thresholds (calculated as mean ± 3SD from three baseline samples). The intra‐individual variation for IGF‐I, P‐III‐NP, and calculated GH‐2000 score in women, over two consecutive menstrual cycles, was investigated and established to be higher (coefficients variations [CVs] between 12% and 186%) than in men (CVs between 3% and 12%). The GHRH administration did not influence the hematological parameters. A strong positive correlation between Hb and IGF‐I (Rs = 0.73, p < 0.0001) and a borderline weak correlation between RET% and IGF‐I (Rs = 0.28, p = 0.054) were noticed in the women. No correlation for the P‐III‐NP and the hematological parameters was seen for the females in the menstrual cycle study. The results fortify previous studies that longitudinal monitoring of IGF‐I and/or GH‐2000 score may be a promising method to detect doping with GH and GH stimulating agents in men, whereas the large intra‐individual variation noted in women indicates that longitudinal monitoring of these biomarker may be harder to evaluate in women.
Excretion of 19‐norandrosterone after consumption of boar meat
Authors: Hülsemann Frank , Fußhöller Gregor , Lehn Christine , Thevis Mario
Published: October 2020

The consumption of the offal of noncastrated pigs can lead to the excretion of 19‐norandrosterone (NorA) in urine of humans. In doping control, GC/C/IRMS is the method of choice to differentiate between an endogenous or exogenous origin of urinary NorA. In some cases, after the consumption of wild boar offal, the δ13C values of urinary NorA fulfill the criteria of an adverse analytical finding due to differing food sources of boar and consumer. However, consumption of wild boar's offal is not very common in Germany, and thus, the occurrence of such an analytical finding is unlikely. In contrast, the commerce with wild boar meat has increased in Germany within the last years. Up to 20,000 tons of wild boar meat are annually consumed. In order to probe for the probability of the occurrence of urinary NorA after consumption of wild boar meat, human urine samples were tested following the ingestion of commercially available game. In approximately half of the urine samples, traces of NorA were detected postadministration of 200 to 400 g boar meat. The highest urinary concentration was 2.9 ng/ml, and significant amounts were detected up to 9 h after the meal. δ13C values ranged from −18.5‰ to −23.5‰, which would have led to at least two adverse analytical findings if the samples were collected in an antidoping context. IRMS analysis on German boar tissue samples showed that δ13C values for wild boar's steroids are unpredictable and may vary seasonally.
Platinum‐Induced Pseudo‐Zn‐Air Reaction Massively Increases the Electrochemical Capacity of Aqueous Zn/V5O12·6H2O Batteries
Authors: Yang Gongzheng , Wang Chengxin
Published: October 2020

How to effectively improve Zn2+‐storage properties is now becoming an urgent issue in the development of high‐energy‐density aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. Here, a new method is proposed to massively increase the electrochemical capacity of aqueous Zn/V5O12·6H2O batteries. By adding a small amount of platinum (Pt, 1.5 wt.%) and keeping other factors constant, the V5O12·6H2O‐Pt electrodes deliver a much higher specific capacity (440 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1) than do V5O12·6H2O electrodes (270 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1). The structural and morphological evolution of V5O12·6H2O during cycling results in Zn2+ ion insertion/extraction and the formation/disappearance of the zinc hydroxyl complex (Zn4SO4(OH)6∙5H2O, ZHS), where the latter is closely related to the surface redox reaction, promoting Zn2+ ion stripping/plating on the Zn anode and consequently leading to extra electron transfer. Electrochemical tests in the absence of oxygen reveal that the Pt additive has no contribution and is even counterproductive to electric conductivity but favors remarkable enhancement of the pseudocapacitance. Accordingly, it is apparent that a strong causal relationship exists between Pt and the ZHS. In consideration of the catalytic application for oxygen reduction, Pt is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the electrochemical capacity through the pseudo‐Zn‐air reaction. This finding introduces a new strategy for achieving high‐performance aqueous zinc‐ion batteries.
Protective effect of Alpinetin on rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Su Yu , Tao Xianqi , Xu Jianghui
Published: October 2020

To investigate the function and mechanism of Alpinetin on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in rat model. The markers of lung injury (body weight/pulmonary function) were measured, and the protein levels of inflammatory‐, apoptosis‐, and fibrotic‐related were determined by Western blot. HE/TUNEL/Masson staining was performed to investigate the mechanisms involved. The levels of inflammatory factors lung injury were detected by ELISA. The in vivo activities of all molecules were determined using a rat model. Alpinetin suppressed the injury of alveolus pulmonis cells occurred in vivo due to the decrease in inflammatory factors and biochemical markers by reduced the expression of TGF‐β1, α‐SMA, and TNF‐α (p < .05), associated with the declined of Caspase‐3 and Caspase‐9 (p < .01). Additionally, protective affection of Alpinetin downregulated the IL‐6 and upregulated the IL‐10 (p < .01). Protective affection of Alpinetin inhibits the apoptosis, inflammation, and fibrosis of alveolus pulmonis cells in rat models.
Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma syndrome associated uterine smooth muscle tumors: Bridging morphology and clinical screening
Authors: Garg Karuna , Rabban Joseph
Published: October 2020

Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC) is an autosomal dominant familial syndrome that results from germline mutation in the fumarate hydratase (FH) gene and is associated with an increased risk for smooth muscle tumors of the uterus and skin and renal cell carcinoma. HLRCC associated RCC develop in up to 25% of patients, often presenting in the fourth decade and are high stage, aggressive tumors with poor clinical outcome. Most women with HLRCC develop large and bulky uterine smooth muscle tumors (USMT) in the second to third decade, thus presenting the ideal opportunity for early detection of HLCC to enable timely implementation of surveillance for their RCC risk. However, the concept of screening women with USMT for HLRCC is challenging given that HLRCC is rare but USMT are common. In addition, FH deficiency in USMT can also result from sporadic FH gene aberrations, unrelated to HLRCC, further complicating any potential screening process. Recent studies show that tumor morphology can be used to identify FH deficiency in USMT and thereby direct patients to formal genetic counseling. The low magnification clues of staghorn shaped blood vessels and alveolar pattern should prompt for high magnification examination for eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions and oval nuclei containing prominent eosinophilic macronucleoli surrounded by a halo. Additional clues include Schwannoma‐like growth and chain‐like distribution of the tumor cells. Although immunostains exist for FH and 2SC, their role is limited in the presence of well‐developed FH deficient morphology. The prevalence of germline pathogenic mutation in FH among women with USMT with FH deficient morphology is as high as 50% in some studies, with somatic FH mutation accounting for the remainder. Therefore, morphologic evaluation of USMT for features of FH deficiency can serve as a screening tool for HLRCC syndrome by triaging patients to formal hereditary risk assessment.
Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComa) of the gynecologic tract
Authors: Bennett Jennifer A. , Oliva Esther
Published: October 2020

PEComas of the female genital tract are rare mesenchymal neoplasms that are most common in the uterus, but also may occur in other gynecologic locations. As they morphologically and immunohistochemically resemble smooth muscle tumors, distinction between the two entities is often challenging, and may be aided by molecular analysis. Thus far, two distinct molecular groups‐classic PEComas with TSC mutations and TFE3‐translocation associated PEComas with TFE3 fusions have been described. Recognition of the first group is imperative as these patients may benefit from targeted therapy with mTOR inhibitors, if malignant. This review will focus on recognition of the morphologic and immunophenotypic features of PEComas, as well as the role of molecular testing in their diagnosis and treatment, analysis of the different algorithms to predict behavior, and differential diagnosis.
Analysis of 11 candidate genes in 849 adult patients with suspected hereditary cancer predisposition
Authors: Cavaillé Mathias , Uhrhammer Nancy , Privat Maud , Ponelle‐Chachuat Flora , Gay‐Bellile Mathilde , Lepage Mathis , Molnar Ioana , Viala Sandrine , Bidet Yannick , Bignon Yves‐Jean
Published: October 2020

Hereditary predisposition to cancer concerns between 5% and 10% of cancers. The main genes involved in the most frequent syndromes (hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome) were identified in the 1990s. Exploration of their functional pathways then identified novel genes for hereditary predisposition to cancer, and candidate genes whose involvement remains unclear. To determine the contribution of truncating variants in 11 candidate genes (BARD1, FAM175A, FANCM, MLH3, MRE11A, PMS1, RAD50, RAD51, RAD51B, RINT1, and XRCC2) to cancer predisposition in a population of interest, panel sequencing was performed in 849 patients with a suspected hereditary predisposition to cancer for whom a diagnostic panel of 38 genes identified no causal mutation. Sixteen truncating variants were found in FANCM (n = 7), RINT1 (n = 4), RAD50 (n = 2), BARD1, PMS1, and RAD51B. FANCM (adjusted P‐value: .03) and RINT1 (adjusted P‐value: .04) were significantly associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. However, further studies are required to determinate the risk of cancer, including the segregation of the variants in the families of our cases. No mutation was identified in RAD51, MRE11A, FAM175A, XRCC2, or MLH3. The involvement of these genes in the hereditary predisposition to cancer cannot be ruled out, although if it exists it is rare or does not seem to involve truncating variants.
Geochemistry of Eocene to Pliocene strata of the Bengal Basin: Implications for provenance and erosion of the Himalaya
Authors: Yang Lei , Xiao Wenjiao , Rahman M. Julleh Jalalur , Dong Yunpeng , Ao Songjian , Sun Jiaopeng , Chen Zhenyu
Published: October 2020

The earliest record of Himalayan detritus in the Himalayan foreland and the erosion sequence of different lithotectonic units of the Himalaya are critical for reconstructing collision and crustal deformation of the orogenic belt. In this study, bulk‐rock major, trace and rare earth elements of 19 fine‐grained clastic sedimentary rock samples from Eocene to Pliocene strata of the Bengal Basin were examined to study their provenance and erosion of the Himalaya. Combining with previous detrital zircon age data from the Bengal Basin, Nepal foreland basin, and South Tibet, we suggest that detritus from the uplifted Tethyan Himalayan Sequences and the Gangdese Arc had not been carried into the Himalayan foreland at least before Late Miocene, and that the Bengal Basin was in a passive continental margin setting from Eocene to Early Miocene, receiving detritus from a felsic sedimentary rock source. The earliest Himalayan detritus recorded in the Eocene strata of Bengal Basin were probably derived from the antecedent sedimentary cover of the Greater Himalayan crystalline rocks. We assume that the lack of Cretaceous Gangdese detritus in the Himalayan foreland from Eocene to Middle Miocene is due to a geomorphic barrier between the Tethyan Himalaya and the Himalayan foreland. Detritus from the Greater Himalayan crystalline rocks were first recorded in the Middle–Late Miocene Boka Bil Formation of the Bengal Basin, which is consistent with the uplift and exhumation time of the Greater Himalayan Sequences.
Natural 222Rn as a tracer of mixing and volatilization in a shallow aquifer during a CO2 injection experiment
Authors: Kim Jaeyeon , Lee Seong‐Sun , Ha Seung‐Wook , Joun Won‐Tak , Ju YeoJin , Lee Kang‐Kun
Published: October 2020

This study aims to evaluate the application of 222Rn in groundwater as a tracer for monitoring CO2 plume migration in a shallow groundwater system, which is important to detect potential CO2 leakage in the carbon capture and storage (CCS) project. For this research, an artificial CO2‐infused water injection experiment was performed in a shallow aquifer by monitoring hydrogeochemical parameters, including 222Rn. Radon in groundwater can be a useful tracer because of its sensitivity to sudden changes in subsurface environment. To monitor the CO2 plume migration, the data were analysed based on (a) the influence of mixing processes on the distribution of 222Rn induced by the artificial injection experiment and (b) the influence of a carrier gas role by CO2 on the variation of 222Rn. The spatio‐temporal distributions of radon concentrations were successfully explained in association with horizontal and vertical mixing processes by the CO2‐infused water injection. Additionally, the mixing ratios of each monitoring well were calculated, quantitatively confirming the influence of these mixing processes on the distribution of radon concentrations. Moreover, one monitoring well showed a high positive relationship between 222Rn and Total dissolved inorganic carbon (TIC) by the carrier gas effect of CO2 through volatilization from the CO2 plume. It indicated the applicability of 222Rn as a sensitive tracer to directly monitor CO2 leakage. When with a little effect of carrier gas, natural 222Rn in groundwater can be used to compute mixing ratio of CO2‐infused water indicative of CO2 migration pathways. CO2 carrier gas effect can possibly increase 222Rn concentration in groundwater and, if fully verified with more field tests, will pose a great potential to be used as a natural tracer for CO2.
Telecentric design for digital‐scanning‐based HiLo optical sectioning endomicroscopy with an electrically tunable lens
Authors: Hsiao Haw , Lin Chen‐Yen , Vyas Sunil , Huang Kuang‐Yuh , Yeh J. Andrew , Luo Yuan
Published: October 2020

Confocal endoscopy has been widely used to obtain fine optically sectioned images. However, confocal endomicroscopic images are formed by point‐by‐point scanning in both lateral and axial directions, which results in long image acquisition time. Here, an endomicroscope with telecentric configuration is presented to achieve nonmechanical and rapid axial scanning for volumetric fluorescence imaging. In our system, optical sectioning in wide‐field fashion is obtained through HiLo imaging with a digital micromirror device. Axial scanning, without mechanical moving parts, is conducted by digital focus adjustment using an electrically tunable lens, offering constant magnification and contrast. We demonstrate imaging performance of our system with optically sectioned images using fluorescently labeled beads, as well as ex vivo mice cardiac tissue samples. Our system provides multiple advantages, in terms of improved scanning range, and reduced image acquisition time, which shows great potentials for three‐dimensional biopsies of volumetric biological samples.
Pathobiologic Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration in Osteopetrosis Derived From Structural and Functional Analysis of 14 ClC-7 Mutants
Authors: Di Zanni Eleonora , Palagano Eleonora , Lagostena Laura , Strina Dario , Rehman Asma , Abinun Mario , De Somer Lien , Martire Baldassarre , Brown Justin , Kariminejad Ariana , Balasubramaniam Shanti , Baynam Gareth , Gurrieri Fiorella , Pisanti Maria A , De Maggio Ilaria , Abboud Miguel R , Chiesa Robert , Burren Christine P , Villa Anna , Sobacchi Cristina , Picollo Alessandra
Published: October 2020

ClC-7 is a chloride-proton antiporter of the CLC protein family. In complex with its accessory protein Ostm-1, ClC-7 localizes to lysosomes and to the osteoclasts' ruffled border, where it plays a critical role in acidifying the resorption lacuna during bone resorption. Gene inactivation in mice causes severe osteopetrosis, neurodegeneration, and lysosomal storage disease. Mutations in the human CLCN7 gene are associated with diverse forms of osteopetrosis. The functional evaluation of ClC-7 variants might be informative with respect to their pathogenicity, but the cellular localization of the protein hampers this analysis. Here we investigated the functional effects of 13 CLCN7 mutations identified in 13 new patients with severe or mild osteopetrosis and a known ADO2 mutation. We mapped the mutated amino acid residues in the homology model of ClC-7 protein, assessed the lysosomal colocalization of ClC-7 mutants and Ostm1 through confocal microscopy, and performed patch-clamp recordings on plasma-membrane-targeted mutant ClC-7. Finally, we analyzed these results together with the patients' clinical features and suggested a correlation between the lack of ClC-7/Ostm1 in lysosomes and severe neurodegeneration. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Projected changes in days with zero‐crossings for Norway
Authors: Nilsen Irene Brox , Hanssen‐Bauer Inger , Tveito Ole Einar , Wong Wai Kwok
Published: October 2020

This paper describes annual and seasonal changes in the number of days with 0°C crossings, comparing projections (2071–2100) based upon regional climate model (RCM) results under the medium and high emission scenarios with the period 1971–2000. A trend analysis of historical observations of days with zero‐crossings (DZCs) for the period 1971–2016 showed a general increase in DZCs in cold seasons and regions and a decrease in DZCs in mild seasons and regions. A cold bias in the unadjusted EURO‐CORDEX model ensemble rendered bias‐adjustment necessary before analyses. In regions and seasons that are mild, temperatures will exceed 0°C during a larger part of the year by the end of this century, and the number of DZCs is thus projected to decrease. This decrease was found for lowland regions in spring and coastal regions in winter. In regions and seasons that are cold, temperatures will rise up above 0°C for a larger part of the year, such that the number of DZCs is projected to give more frequent crossings of the 0°C threshold. This increase was found for inland regions in winter and Finnmark, the northernmost county, in spring. Thus, more frequent icing of the snowpack is expected in Finnmark. However, less frequent icing in coastal and lowland regions may indicate a lesser need for winter road maintenance.
Monitoring microstructural changes and moisture distribution of dry‐cured pork: a combined confocal laser scanning microscopy and hyperspectral imaging study
Authors: Tian Xiao‐Yu , Aheto Joshua H , Dai Chunxia , Ren Yi , Bai Jun‐Wen
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Various spectral profiles, including reflectance, absorbance, and Kubelka–Munk spectra, have been derived from hyperspectral images and used to develop multivariate models to evaluate changes in the quality of meat and meat products as a function of processing. However, none of these has the capacity to produce images of the structural changes often associated with processing. This study explored the feasibility of combining hyperspectral imaging (HSI) with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) to examine the impact of processing on microstructural changes and the evolution of moisture. Reflectance spectra features were obtained and transformed into absorbance and Kubelka–Munk spectra and their ability to predict moisture content using models established on partial least‐squares regression were evaluated.

RESULTS

The partial least‐squares regression model (full‐band wavelength) dubbed Rs‐MSC yielded the best result, with , RMSEC = 0.127, , RMSECV = 0.418, , RMSEP = 0.824. Next, a total of 16 optimum wavelengths were selected using the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling algorithm. These wavelengths also yielded good results for Rs‐MSC, with , RMSEC = 0.840, , RMSECV = 0.118, , RMSEP = 0.121. Regarding moisture distribution and microstructure analysis, HSI and CLSM were able to reveal moisture content distribution and conformational differences in microstructure in the test samples.

CONCLUSION

Using HSI in synergy with CLSM may offer a reliable means for assessing both the chemical and structural changes that occur in other congener food products during processing. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Opioid prescribing exceeds consumption following common surgical oncology procedures
Authors: Eyrich Nicholas W. , Sloss Kenneth R. , Howard Ryan A. , Klueh Michael P. , Englesbe Michael J. , Waljee Jennifer F. , Brummett Chad M. , Sabel Michael S. , Dossett Lesly A. , Lee Jay S.
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

Surgical oncology patients are vulnerable to persistent opioid use. As such, we aim to compare opioid prescribing to opioid consumption for common surgical oncology procedures.

Methods

We prospectively identified patients undergoing common surgical oncology procedures at a single academic institution (August 2017–March 2018). Patients were contacted by telephone within 6 months of surgery and asked to report their opioid consumption and describe their discharge instructions and opioid handling practices.

Results

Of the 439 patients who were approached via telephone, 270 completed at least one survey portion. The median quantity of opioid prescribed was significantly larger than consumed following breast biopsy (5 vs. 2 tablets of 5 mg oxycodone, p < .001), lumpectomy (10 vs. 2 tablets of 5 mg oxycodone, p < .001), and mastectomy or wide local excision (20 tablets vs. 2 tablets of 5 mg oxycodone, p < .001). The majority of patients reported receiving education on taking opioids, but only 27% received instructions on proper disposal; 82% of prescriptions filled resulted in unused opioids, and only 11% of these patients safely disposed of them.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that opioid prescribing exceeds consumption following common surgical oncology procedures, indicating the potential for reductions in prescribing.
Abnormal Laryngeal Electromyography Findings in Asymptomatic Adults Across the Age Spectrum
Authors: Leclerc Andrée‐Anne , Munin Michael C. , Smith Libby J. , Rosen Clark A.
Published: October 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) is a diagnostic tool for patients with suspected neurogenic abnormalities of the larynx. LEMG is often used with the assumption that any abnormality is symptom‐/disease‐related. We sought to determine the prevalence of abnormal LEMG findings in a group of healthy asymptomatic adults across a large age spectrum.

Study Design

Open, prospective study, gender‐match and age balanced by decade.

Methods

Forty‐six healthy participants (age 20–78) underwent LEMG, including 178 muscles. Participants had no history of voice problems, normal VHI‐10, and normal flexible laryngoscopy. Qualitative and quantitative LEMG (bilateral) were performed involving the thyroarytenoid–lateral cricoarytenoid muscle complex (TA‐LCA) and cricothyroid (CT) muscles. LEMG parameters included evaluation for fibrillation potentials, sharp waves, reduced recruitment, polyphasic potentials, electrical synkinesis, and measurement of turns per second.

Results

Of participants, 4% had at least one abnormal qualitative finding (slightly reduced recruitment or two to three discrete polyphasic potentials). There were no findings of fibrillation potentials or sharp waves. There were no abnormal qualitative findings in the CT muscles tested. Of participants, 16% had at least one abnormal synkinesis finding. LEMG qualitative abnormalities and quantitative abnormalities do not appear to correlate with gender or age.

Conclusion

Abnormal qualitative and quantitative LEMG findings were uncommon and minor in severity in our group of asymptomatic healthy adults. The likelihood of abnormal LEMG results in asymptomatic adults was 2.2% for qualitative findings, 9.3% for synkinesis, and 5.4% for turns/s.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:2065–2069, 2021
Reclamation of desert land to different land‐use types changes soil bacterial community composition in a desert‐oasis ecotone
Authors: Li Jinbiao , Pokharel Prem , Liu Guangming , Chen Jinlin
Published: October 2020

Understanding the impacts of different land‐uses on soil microbial communities is essential for maintaining soil health and sustainability in a desert‐oasis ecotone. Information on the microbial community composition of reclaimed soils under different land‐use types after several decades of reclamation are limited. The objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of reclamation of the non‐productive desert to productive lands on soil microbial community composition and identify the critical soil chemical factors associated with these changes. Soil samples were collected from a control (natural desert land [DL]) and reclaimed lands: cotton land (CL), grape land (vinyards) (GL), and shelterbelt (SL). Soil microbial community composition and diversity were determined by high throughput sequencing. The results showed that soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and pH were significantly different between DL and reclaimed soils (CL, GL, and SL). Sixty years after reclamation, the CL contained a higher relative abundance of Actinobacteria, while the GL and SL contained a higher relative abundance of Acidobacteria. There were 541 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) shared by all the four land‐use types. The highest number of shared OTUs was found in the GL and SL. The variance observed in the bacterial communities in all land‐use types were mainly explained by SOC, followed by total N, total K, pH, and total P. Our results suggest that land‐use type change has significant impacts on soil bacterial community composition and diversity through modifications in soil chemical properties in desert‐oasis ecotone.
(−)‐Epicatechin induces mitochondrial biogenesis and markers of muscle regeneration in adults with Becker muscular dystrophy
Authors: McDonald Craig M. , Ramirez‐Sanchez Israel , Oskarsson Björn , Joyce Nanette , Aguilar Candace , Nicorici Alina , Dayan Jonathan , Goude Erica , Abresch R. Ted , Villarreal Francisco , Ceballos Guillermo , Perkins Guy , Dugar Sundeep , Schreiner George , Henricson Erik K.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

We conducted an open‐label study to examine the effects of the flavonoid (−)‐epicatechin in seven ambulatory adult patients with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD).

Methods

Seven participants received (−)‐epicatechin 50 mg twice per day for 8 weeks. Pre‐ and postprocedures included biceps brachii biopsy to assess muscle structure and growth‐relevant endpoints by western blotting, mitochondria volume measurement, and cristae abundance by electron microscopy, graded exercise testing, and muscle strength and function tests.

Results

Western blotting showed significantly increased levels of enzymes modulating cellular bioenergetics (liver kinase B1 and 5′‐adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase). Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator‐1alpha, a transcriptional coactivator of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and cristae‐associated mitofilin levels, increased as did cristae abundance. Muscle and plasma follistatin increased significantly while myostatin decreased. Markers of skeletal muscle regeneration myogenin, myogenic regulatory factor‐5, myoblast determination protein 1, myocyte enhancer factor‐2, and structure‐associated proteins, including dysferlin, utrophin, and intracellular creatine kinase, also increased. Exercise testing demonstrated decreased heart rate, maximal oxygen consumption per kilogram, and plasma lactate levels at defined workloads. Tissue saturation index improved in resting and postexercise states.

Discussion

(−)‐Epicatechin, an exercise mimetic, appears to have short‐term positive effects on tissue biomarkers indicative of mitochondrial biogenesis and muscle regeneration, and produced improvements in graded exercise testing parameters in patients with BMD.
A systematic review of social determinants of healthy lifestyle among Iranian women
Authors: Ghasemi Yngyknd Sakineh , Asghari Jafarabadi Mohammad , Ghanbari‐Homayi Solmaz , Laghousi Delara , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: October 2020

Aim

This review aimed to determine the social determinants of healthy lifestyle among Iranian women.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Method

A comprehensive electronic search was carried out with no time limit until 6 September 2019. Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (adapted for evaluating cross‐sectional survey/studies) was used to evaluate the quality of the articles. The metap code was used in SATATA16 to combine the p‐values using Edgington's additive method.

Results

Twelve studies entered the systematic review. The meta‐analysis results showed that social determinants of healthy lifestyle among Iranian women included income, job, education, spouse's education and occupation, housing and social support.

Conclusions

Given the relationship between modifiable factors and women's lifestyles, it seems that it is necessary to set policies to improve the status of factors related to women's lifestyle including reducing poverty, promoting education and providing social support to eliminate.
Psychosocial resources contributing to resilience in Austrian young carers—A study using photo novella
Authors: Matzka Martin , Nagl‐Cupal Martin
Published: October 2020

Caring for their chronically ill or disabled family members is a responsibility that may be assumed by children and adolescents (“young carers”) and may affect young carers’ lives in many ways. Some young carers may experience long‐term adverse health effects related to their early caring responsibilities and others may demonstrate healthy adaptation. Little research applying nonretrospective designs, however, has been done from the perspective of young carers regarding the psychosocial resources that enable them to handle the responsibility of caring for chronically ill or disabled family members. The aim of the present study, therefore, was to identify psychosocial resources used by young carers in Austria. Ten children and adolescents (aged 9–17) took photographs to illustrate their everyday lives. The photographs were then used to guide subsequent interviews. Data were analyzed following the principles of directed qualitative content analysis and using the theoretical lens of resilience. We identified two sets of psychosocial resources: (1) Personal resources comprising (a) being able to spend leisure time and (b) finding distraction from sorrows and problems. (2) Interpersonal resources comprising (a) fostering meaningful friendships, (b) receiving support from the family, and (c) bonding with the ill or disabled family member. Young carers largely have the same repertoire of resources as other children and can use them specifically to respond to the care burden. Interventions to support young carers must focus on promoting peer contact and cohesion within the nuclear family as well as bonding with the ill or disabled relative.
Relationships of Physical Activity and Diet Quality with Body Composition and Fat Distribution in US Adults
Authors: Xu Furong , Greene Geoffrey W. , Earp Jacob E. , Adami Alessandra , Delmonico Matthew J. , Lofgren Ingrid E. , Greaney Mary L.
Published: October 2020

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationships among physical activity (PA), diet quality, body composition, and fat distribution in a representative sample of US adults.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted using publicly accessible data from the 2011 to 2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the Food Patterns Equivalents Database (n = 7,423). Variables from the data sets were analyzed for this study, including PA, two 24‐hour dietary recalls, and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry outputs.

Results

For men, PA and diet quality were inversely associated with the percentage of body fat (β = −0.0042, 95% CI: −0.0084 to −0.0001; β = −0.28, 95% CI: −0.42 to −0.14) and fat mass index (β = −0.0125, 95% CI: −0.0209 to −0.0041; β = −0.56, 95% CI: −0.81 to −0.32); meeting the PA recommendation and having good diet quality provided an additive effect on body fat. A similar pattern was observed in women. Additionally, diet quality was inversely associated with all fat distribution measures in both sexes, whereas PA was positively associated with lean mass measures in men only.

Conclusions

Increased PA and/or better diet quality were associated with reduced body fat, a healthier fat distribution, and increased lean mass. Further research examining how changes in PA or diet quality influence body composition and fat distribution in adults is warranted.