bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thyroid Dysfunction and Infertility of Women of Reproductive Age
Authors: Sterlyova Ekaterina Andreevna , Timokhina Tatiana Kharitonovna , Sivkov Yuriy Viktorovich , Markov Alexandr Anatolyevich , Huldani . , Goncharov Vitaly V. , Achmad Harun
Published: October 2020

Autoimmunity of the thyroid gland (TAI) or its dysfunction is quite common among women of reproductive age, and there are suggestions in the literature that they are associated with an unfavorable level of fertility and a negative outcome of pregnancy, as in the case of spontaneous conception or after assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

This assumption makes it necessary to screen autoantibodies to thyrotropin (TSH) and thyroid peroxidase among infertile women who have made a number of attempts to become pregnant.

Some authors have conducted a number of studies where they have examined the relationship between autoimmunity of the thyroid gland, thyroid function, and fertility. However, there is currently no consensus on the upper limit of the norm for TSH to determine thyroid dysfunction and the limits for intervention. Despite the recent update of the American thyroid Association (ATA) on guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases during pregnancy and the postpartum period, many issues remain unresolved in ART. The author came to the following conclusions: open thyroid dysfunction often leads to menstrual disorders, fertility problems, and pregnancy complications, and therefore should be treated accordingly. Currently, there is little evidence to recommend treatment with levothyroxine at TSH levels between 2.5 and 4.0 MMU / l, given the possible side effects of overtreatment, especially in patients with mild thyroid dysfunction. We suggest careful longitudinal monitoring, especially in the presence of thyroid antibodies in women undergoing ART. The 4 MMU / l limit for TSH appears as the intervention level for SCH treatment in women with and without transabdominal utrasound in ART.
The Significance of Tetrogenic Effect of Alcohol on the Fetus within the Educational Programs of Physicians and Its Practical Application
Authors: Marianian Anait Yuryevna , Protopopova Natalya Vladimirovna , Kolesnikova Lyubov Ilinichna
Published: October 2020

Background: The importance of the problem of drinking alcohol and further, negative consequences in the prenatal period and before planning the pregnancy is not understood sufficiently by the women as well as by the doctors. The goal of our research was to determine Russian specialists’ current awareness p regarding the problem of teratogenic effects of alcohol on the fetus and to illustrate the importance of introducing this knowledge into their educational process to the specialist.

Materials and Methods: To achieve this goal, an anonymous survey was conducted with 146 obstetrician-gynecologists (OG), 70 neonatologists (N), 56 pediatric psychiatrists (PP), 53 pediatricians (P), 46 pediatric neurologists (based at medical and prophylactic institutions in Eastern Siberia Irkutsk in Russia. The questionnaire consisted of 28 questions (htt://netfas.net/pro/).

Results: The result of the study showed that most doctors were not sufficiently informed about the teratogenic effects of alcohol on the developing fetus, and in particular, its relation to FAS / FASD. It was established that neurologists were more aware in these matters with significant p <0.05 However, obstetrician-gynecologists, who are the primary preventive link to prevent alcohol consumption in the prenatal period and in the period of planning pregnancy showed lesser knowledge than the neurologists in this regard .

Conclusions: Thus, this study concluded that it is necessary to the specialist and other researchers to pay attention in different medical and social spheres that the problem has really become quite urgent for the future generations also, these topics related to the problem of the effects of alcohol on the fetus should be introduced In the physicians ‘education curriculum. Physicians should pay special attention to pregnant women who were taking alcohol even in small doses, as there is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy.
Single click automated breast planning with iterative optimization
Authors: Archibald‐Heeren Ben , Byrne Mikel , Hu Yunfei , Liu Guilin , Collett Nick , Cai Meng , Wang Yang
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To present the development of an in‐house coded solution for treatment planning of tangential breast radiotherapy that creates single click plans by emulating the iterative optimization process of human dosimetrists.

Method

One hundred clinical breast cancer patients were retrospectively planned with an automated planning (AP) code incorporating the hybrid intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) approach. The code automates all planning processes including plan generation, beam generation, gantry and collimator angle determination, open segments and dynamic IMRT fluence and calculations. Thirty‐nine dose volume histogram (DVH) metrics taken from three international recommendations were compared between the automated and clinical plans (CP), along with median interquartile analysis of the DVH distributions. Total planning time and delivery QA were also compared between the plan sets.

Results

Of the 39 planning metrics analyzed 23 showed no significant difference between clinical and automated planning techniques. Of the 16 metrics with statistically significant variations, 2 were improved in the clinical plans in comparison to 14 improved in the AP plans. Automated plans produced a greater number of ideal plans against international guidelines as per EviQ (AP:77%, CP:68%), RTOG 1005 (AP:80%, CP:71%), and London Cancer references (AP:80%, CP:75%). Delivery QA results for both techniques were equivalent. Automated planning techniques resulted in an average reduction in planning time from 23 to 5 minutes.

Conclusion

We have introduced an automated planning code with iterative optimization that produces equivalent quality plans to manual clinical planning. The resultant change in workflow results in a reduction in treatment planning times.
Beef and Pork Marketing Margins and Price Spreads during COVID‐19
Authors: Lusk Jayson L. , Tonsor Glynn T. , Schulz Lee L.
Published: October 2020

COVID‐19‐related disruptions led to a historic rise in the spread between livestock and wholesale meat prices. Concerns about concentration and allegations of anticompetitive behavior have led to several inquiries and civil suits by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Justice, with increases in price differentials serving as a focal point. This article notes the difference between price spreads and marketing margins, outlines corresponding economic theory, and describes the empirical evidence on wholesale meat and livestock price dynamics in the wake of COVID‐19 disruptions. At one point during the pandemic, beef and pork packers were both operating at about 60% of the previous year's processing volume. We explore how such a massive supply shock would be expected to affect marketing margins even in the absence of anticompetitive behavior. Moreover, we document how margin measurements are critically sensitive to the selection of data and information utilized. Finally, we conclude with some discussion around policy proposals that would pit industry concentration against industry coordination and economies of scale.
Quantitative trait locus mapping for carbon isotope ratio and root pulling force in canola
Authors: Mekonnen Melaku D. , Mullen Jack L. , Arathi H.S. , Assefa Yared , McKay John K. , Byrne Patrick F.
Published: October 2020

Carbon isotope ratio (δ13C) and root pulling force (RPF) are associated with dehydration avoidance in plants. The δ13C measures the efficiency of C gain relative to water loss, whereas RPF, the vertical force required to pull plants from the ground, indirectly estimates root‐related dehydration avoidance capacity. To determine quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling these traits in canola (Brassica napus L.), a mapping population was evaluated in 2011 and 2012 in Fort Collins, CO. The split‐plot experiment had two moisture regimes (main plot) and 148 doubled haploid lines (subplot), replicated three times. Analysis of variance indicated highly significant (P < .01) variation among genotypes for δ13C, RPF, days to flowering, and several other agronomic traits. In 2011, δ13C was correlated (P < .01) with days to flowering in both moisture treatments (r = .41 dry, 0.31 wet) and with fresh biomass in the dry treatment (r = .64). The RPF was consistently correlated with plant height (r = .32–.54, P < .01) and fresh biomass (r = .17–.58, P < .05) in all environments. In 2011, QTL were detected on chromosomes A09 and C08 for δ13C and on chromosomes A05, C01, C04, and C08 for RPF. The QTL for δ13C, RPF, and plant height co‐localized on C08. In 2012, QTL were detected on A02 for δ13C and on C01 and C08 for RPF. Moderate heritability and low QTL × environment interaction for δ13C and RPF suggest that if validated, markers for these traits could be used in marker‐assisted selection.
Enhancing flame retardant and antistatic properties of polyamide 6 by a grafted multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Xue Boqiong , Li Yuchun , Guo Jia , Sun Jun , Liu Xiaodong , Li Hongfei , Gu Xiaoyu , Zhang Sheng , Jiang Shengling , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: October 2020

In order to improve the flame retardancy and antistatic properties of polyamide 6 (PA6) at as low amount of additives as possible, an integrated‐functional additive was synthesized by 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The results showed 2 wt% of DOPO‐MWCNTs distributed in PA6 formed an electric network and decreased volume resistivity sharply to 3.1 × 108 Ω cm. In other words, it helped PA6 to get to the percolation threshold of semiconductor. By using of 3 wt% DOPO‐MWCNTs, the severe dripping in burning of PA6 was almost controlled. The possible reason was also ascribed to the network formed by evenly dispersed DOPO‐MWCNTs, which strengthened the char structure and held severe dripping of PA6. As a result, the heat and smoke release were also suppressed obviously. The most important is that CO release was about half cut in CONE test.
Variability in coral reef fish baseline and benchmark biomass in the central and western Indian Ocean provinces
Authors: McClanahan Timothy R. , Friedlander Alan M. , Graham Nicholas A. J. , Chabanet Pascale , Bruggemann J. Henrich
Published: October 2020

Reef fish biomass is increasingly recognized as a key indicator of fishery and biodiversity status linked to ecosystem integrity on coral reefs, and yet the evaluation of appropriate baselines for biomass, and what drives variation in potential baselines, is sparse.

Variability in reef fishable biomass was assessed to test for the existence of baselines or benchmarks (B&Bs), based on field studies of 223 reef sites in remote uninhabited reefs, in high‐compliance closures of >5 km2, and among the increasing number of small and recent closures.

The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of human habitation, travel time and distance to cities, habitat, depth, benthic cover, and environmental variables on fish B&Bs.

There were large differences in the three categories of ‘no fishing’, with human habitation being the single best predictor of biomass. In remote areas without people (>9 hours of travel time), fish biomass had a mean of 2,450 kg ha–1 (95% confidence interval, 95% CI, 2,130–2,770 kg ha–1; median = 1,885 kg ha–1).

In these remote areas, biomass was weakly associated with human travel time to the site and, to a lesser extent, wave energy. In high‐compliance closures, fish biomass peaked at 20 years and 5–10 km2, and levelled at 910 kg ha–1 (95% CI 823–989 kg ha–1) for both closure age and size. There was little evidence that human travel time and environmental factors influenced biomass greatly in these established closures. In small and recent closures (<15 years), habitat, depth and closure age were the best predictors of fish biomass.

Based on the weakness of environmental factors, country or site‐specific B&Bs are not required in these two provinces. However, human habitation in the seascape as well as the size and age of closures set limits to the maximum achievable biomass. The importance of environmental factors increases as the no‐fishing areas and closure times decline. Reef wilderness is not widespread in these provinces, but provides key services and therefore needs to be included in conservation and fisheries policy and management goals.
The heavy rainfall during the warm season over the Pearl River Delta region: Movements and early signals
Authors: Zhong Shui‐xin , Tian Fu‐you
Published: October 2020

The environments and movement, as well as the surface characteristics of heavy rainfall (HR), were examined based on 5‐year HR episodes collected from the surface observations during the warm season (April–September) from 2015 to 2019. The results showed that the HR generally exhibited eastward movement with average moving‐speed of 59 km⋅hr−1 over South China. The daytime HR exhibited more episodes and faster moving‐speed than the nocturnal HR. Both nocturnal HR and daytime HR were strongly influenced by the southerly wind during April–June over the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region. It showed a cyclonic wind pattern during the occurrence‐time of nocturnal HR and a strong early convergence belt at −3 hr of daytime HR between the southeasterly winds and the northeasterly winds over the north part of the PRD region, which might be related to the cold outflow from the upstream east‐moving convections. Another key characterization parameter of HR was the strong decrease of surface potential temperature over the PRD region, especially during July–September.
Reduce liability in potential COVID‐19‐transmission cases
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: October 2020

The pandemic will likely trigger a wave of claims and litigation. Lawsuits are already being filed in response to institutional and conference decisions not to play sports in the fall and the cancellations of sponsorship arrangements. Disputes over transmission of COVID‐19 during practice and competition are likely right around the corner. Unlike a workers’ compensation system established as the exclusive remedy to compensate employees for work‐related illnesses and injuries, college athletics doesn't offer a compensation system for student‐athletes who contract the virus.
Don't waste other people's time
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: October 2020

One of the worst things a leader, manager, or boss can do is waste their employees’ time. By doing so, you are keeping your employees from being as productive as they could be.
Keep accessibility central in COVID‐19 mitigation plans
Authors: Hope Joan , McCarthy Claudine
Published: October 2020

By the time athletics facilities and activities reopen on your campus, your institution has no doubt taken steps to reduce the risk of COVID‐19 transmission. But now is also the time to work with facilities staff and disability services providers to ensure mitigation efforts don't restrict access for individuals with disabilities, according to J Garofalo, Associate at KMA Architecture + Accessibility.
COx‐Resistant Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Cyclohexane Catalyzed by sp3@sp2Nanodiamonds towards Highly Selective Cyclohexene Production
Authors: Du Pengfei , Zhang Xin‐Xing , Zhang Shaoqian , Zhao Yang , Zhang Liyun , Zhang Bingsen , Yang Bing
Published: October 2020

Deep oxidation/dehydrogenation are longstanding problems for decades in catalytic oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of cyclohexane and other alkanes. Here we show a metal‐free catalyst of nanodiamonds (NDs) with unique sp3@sp2hybrid structure that catalyzes COx‐resistant cyclohexane ODH with remarkable reactivity towards cyclohexene production. The selectivity of cyclohexene can reach as high as 67 % with significantly suppressed COxemission (<5 %), which is on top of the highest reported values among other metal(oxide)/metal‐free catalysts. Structural evolution of sp3@sp2NDs under annealing treatments and their specific surface functional groups are systematically studied using TEM, XPS, Raman and TPD. By comparing with carbon nanotubes (CNTs), we found that the carbonyl groups stabilized on strained sp3@sp2core‐shell NDs enhanced the cyclohexene selectivity via preferential cleavage of C−H over C−C bond. Kinetic studies further revealed the underlying reaction pathways that cyclohexane is rapidly dehydrogenated to cyclohexene which subsequently transforms into benzene (fast) and COx(slow). Deep oxidation of both cyclic hydrocarbons is largely suppressed due to the low density of electrophilic functional groups on strongly curved graphitic surface of sp3@sp2NDs.
The hippocampal formation of two carnivore species: The feliform banded mongoose and the caniform domestic ferret
Authors: Pillay Sashrika , Bhagwandin Adhil , Bertelsen Mads F. , Patzke Nina , Engler Gerhard , Engel Andreas K. , Manger Paul R.
Published: October 2020

Employing cyto‐, myelo‐, and chemoarchitectural staining techniques, we analyzed the structure of the hippocampal formation in the banded mongoose and domestic ferret, species belonging to the two carnivoran superfamilies, which have had independent evolutionary trajectories for the past 55 million years. Our observations indicate that, despite the time since sharing a last common ancestor, these species show extensive similarities. The four major portions of the hippocampal formation (cornu Ammonis, dentate gyrus, subicular complex, and entorhinal cortex) were readily observed, contained the same internal subdivisions, and maintained the topological relationships of these subdivisions that could be considered typically mammalian. In addition, adult hippocampal neurogenesis was observed in both species, occurring at a rate similar to that observed in other mammals. Despite the overall similarities, several differences to each other, and to other mammalian species, were observed. We could not find evidence for the presence of the CA2 and CA4 fields of the cornu Ammonis region. In the banded mongoose the dentate gyrus appears to be comprised of up to seven lamina, through the sublamination of the molecular and granule cell layers, which is not observed in the domestic ferret. In addition, numerous subtle variations in chemoarchitecture between the two species were observed. These differences may contribute to an overall variation in the functionality of the hippocampal formation between the species, and in comparison to other mammalian species. These similarities and variations are important to understanding to what extent phylogenetic affinities and constraints affect potential adaptive evolutionary plasticity of the hippocampal formation.
Purification, Culture, and CD19‐CAR Lentiviral Transduction of Adult and Umbilical Cord Blood NK Cells
Authors: Herrera Lara , Juan Manel , Eguizabal Cristina
Published: October 2020

Natural killer cells, or NK cells, are a type of cytotoxic lymphocyte critical to the innate immune system. The role that NK cells play is analogous to that of cytotoxic T cells in that they provide rapid responses to virus‐infected cells and responses to tumor formation. Unmodified NK cells have long been used in various immunotherapies to treat different tumors, with only marginal success. However, in the last few years, NK cells modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR‐NK cells) have emerged as particularly ideal cellular platforms for antigen‐specific antitumor agents. Unlike CAR‐T cells, they do not elicit allogeneic responses or graft‐versus‐host disease and therefore can be administered to recipients with differing MHC expression. This article outlines protocols to obtain CD19‐CAR‐NK cells, focusing on the importance of obtaining and culturing a purified NK cell population and how to attain good transfection efficiency. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC

Basic Protocol 1: Purification and culture of adult peripheral blood and umbilical cord blood NK cells

Basic Protocol 2: CD19‐CAR lentiviral transduction of adult peripheral blood or umbilical cord blood NK cells

Support Protocol: Production of lentiviral supernatant
Gas‐Phase Photoelectrocatalysis Mediated by Oxygen Ions for Uphill Conversion of Greenhouse Gases
Authors: Kushida Masaru , Yamaguchi Akira , Cho Yohei , Fujita Takeshi , Abe Hideki , Miyauchi Masahiro
Published: October 2020

The present study reports a gas‐phase photoelectrochemical (GPEC) system in which photoanode and photocathode materials are coated on each side with a pellet of the oxygen‐ion conductor yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ), where light irradiation is feasible on both sides. As a model gas‐phase reaction, we chose dry reforming of methane (DRM), which converts greenhouse gases into valuable syngas. Consequently, the stoichiometric DRM reaction proceeded in our GPEC system, indicating that the oxygen ions in a YSZ pellet act as mediators to link the redox reactions. It was also noted that UV light irradiation on the anodic side was more effective than that on the cathodic side, suggesting that the photogenerated holes in the anodic YSZ side activate methane molecules, while photogenerated electrons are injected into Rh nanoparticles to cause carbon dioxide reduction in the cathodic side. Our GPEC system converts greenhouse gases into valuable syngas by light irradiation.
Standardized definitions for evaluation of heart failure therapies: scientific expert panel from the Heart Failure Collaboratory and Academic Research Consortium
Authors: Abraham William T. , Psotka Mitchell A. , Fiuzat Mona , Filippatos Gerasimos , Lindenfeld JoAnn , Mehran Roxana , Ambardekar Amrut V. , Carson Peter E. , Jacob Richard , Januzzi James L. , Konstam Marvin A. , Krucoff Mitchell W. , Lewis Eldrin F. , Piccini Jonathan P. , Solomon Scott D. , Stockbridge Norman , Teerlink John R. , Unger Ellis F. , Zeitler Emily P. , Anker Stefan D. , O'Connor Christopher M.
Published: October 2020

The Heart Failure Academic Research Consortium is a partnership between the Heart Failure Collaboratory (HFC) and Academic Research Consortium (ARC), comprised of leading heart failure (HF) academic research investigators, patients, United States (US) Food and Drug Administration representatives, and industry members from the US and Europe. A series of meetings were convened to establish definitions and key concepts for the evaluation of HF therapies including optimal medical and device background therapy, clinical trial design elements and statistical concepts, and study endpoints. This manuscript summarizes the expert panel discussions as consensus recommendations focused on populations and endpoint definitions; it is not exhaustive or restrictive, but designed to stimulate HF clinical trial innovation.
The role of meteorological forcing and snow model complexity in winter glacier mass balance estimation, Columbia River basin, Canada
Authors: Mortezapour Marzieh , Menounos Brian , Jackson Peter L. , Erler Andre R. , Pelto Ben M.
Published: October 2020

Glaciers are commonly located in mountainous terrain subject to highly variable meteorological conditions. High resolution meteorological (HRM) data simulated by atmospheric models can complement meteorological station observations in order to assess changes in glacier energy fluxes and mass balance. We examine the performance of two snow models, SnowModel and Alpine3D, forced by different meteorological data for winter mass balance simulations at four glaciers in the Canadian portion of the Columbia Basin. The Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) with resolution of 1 km and the North American Land Data Assimilation System with ~12 km resolution, provide HRM data for the two snow models. Evaluation is based on the ability of the snow models to simulate snow depth at both point locations (automated snow weather stations) and over the entire glacier surface (airborne LiDAR [Light Detection and Ranging] surveys) during the 2015/2016 winter accumulation. When forced with HRM data, both models can reproduce snow depth to within ±15% of observed values. Both models underestimate winter mass balance when forced by HRM data. When driven with WRF data, SnowModel underestimates winter mass balance integrated over the glacier area by 1 and 10%, whilst Alpine3D underestimates winter mass balance by 12 and 22% compared with LiDAR and stake measurements, respectively. The overall results show that SnowModel forced by WRF simulated winter mass balance the best.
Prevalence of comprehensive DNA damage repair gene germline mutations in Chinese prostate cancer patients
Authors: Wu Junlong , Wei Yu , Pan Jian , Jin Shengming , Gu Weijie , Gan Hualei , Zhu Yao , Ye Ding‐Wei
Published: October 2020

Germline DNA damage repair (DDR) deficiency has been associated with increased cancer risk, poor prognosis and therapeutic opportunity for prostate cancer (PCa) patients. However, the landscape of germline mutations in PCa covering comprehensive DDR genes has not been reported. We performed whole‐exome sequencing in 246 patients who meet the National Cancer Center Network guidelines for genetic testing and analyzed variants in 276 DDR genes, which was from the Cancer Genome Atlas. A total of 79 deleterious germline alterations in 60 DDR genes were identified in 31% (76/246) patients. Mutations were found in nine DDR pathways, including 11.8% men in homologous recombination repair (HR) pathways, 2.4% men in mismatch repair (MMR) pathway and 16.7% (41/246) patients in non‐HR/MMR pathways. In HRR and MMR pathways, mutations were mostly identified in BRCA2 (5.3%), HFM1 (0.8%), ZSWIM7 (0.8%), MSH2 (0.8%) and MSH3 (0.8%). When compared with the cancer‐free cohort, POLN and POLG conferred high risk to PCa with odds ratio 6.9 and 20.5, respectively. We provided a comprehensive view of germline DDR gene mutations in PCa patients. We also identified two potential PCa predisposition genes: POLN and POLG, which have not been reported in the Western population, confirming the necessity of customizing a multigene panel for Chinese PCa patients.
Front Cover
Authors: Vasilikos Ioannis , Haas Julian , Teixeira Graciosa Q. , Nothelfer Julia , Neidlinger‐Wilke Cornelia , Wilke Hans‐Joachim , Seitz Andreas , Vavvas Demetrios G. , Zentner Josef , Beck Jürgen , Hubbe Ulrich , Mizaikoff Boris
Published: October 2020

Infrared spectroscopy enables insight into light‐activated riboflavin‐induced collagen cross‐linking for future intervertebral disc treatment and repair.

Further details can be found in the article by Ioannis Vasilikos, Julian Haas, Graciosa Q. Teixeira, Julia Nothelfer, Cornelia Neidlinger‐Wilke, Hans‐Joachim Wilke, Andreas Seitz, Demetrios G. Vavvas, Josef Zentner, Jürgen Beck, Ulrich Hubbe, and Boris Mizaikoff (e202000110).

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Pharmacological management of Parkinson’s disease in older people
Authors: Mouchaileh Nadia , Hughes Andrew J.
Published: October 2020

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that mainly affects older people. It is predominately recognised as a movement disorder; however, the non‐motor symptoms are gaining increased recognition. Treating both motor and non‐motor symptoms can be challenging. Co‐morbidities, in particular dementia, polypharmacy and an increased susceptibility to adverse medication effects often necessitate a different approach to management compared to younger patients. In older people, the mainstay of treatment for motor symptoms is levodopa. However, long‐term side‐effects including motor fluctuations and dyskinesia can be severely disabling and may require the addition of adjunctive agents including dopamine agonists, catechol‐o‐methyltransferase inhibitors, monoamine oxidase‐B inhibitors and amantadine. Medications can significantly improve symptoms; however, optimal management of motor and non‐motor symptoms usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. In this article we present an evidence‐based review of Parkinson’s disease treatments and guidance to improve clinical management and outcomes in older people.
Fast pyrolysis as an alternative to the valorization of olive mill wastes
Authors: Dorado Fernando , Sanchez Paula , Alcazar‐Ruiz Angel , Sanchez‐Silva Luz
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The valorization of organic wastes through fast pyrolysis appears to be a highly promising option for decreasing pollutants and reducing consumption of natural resources. For this purpose, three different olive pomace samples were studied to determine how olive crop location and the extraction process could influence bio‐oil product distribution. Olive pomace was selected as the feedstock due to the importance of the olive oil industry in Spain.

RESULTS

In this study, the conditions of fast pyrolysis were optimized using lignin as a reference, with the optimum conditions being 500 °C, 20 °C ms−1 as the heating rate and 15 s as the vapour residence time. The olive pomace results determined that not only their chemical composition, but also their fat content had a remarkable effect on product distribution obtained after fast pyrolysis. However, whereas high lignin content enhanced phenol production, cellulose decomposed to carboxylic acids. In addition, due to current global warming, the carbon dioxide (CO2) burden of the three samples was calculated using mass spectroscopy. The OPGC sample gave off the lowest amount of greenhouse gases, followed by OPMNE and OPMN.

CONCLUSIONS

The higher fat content in the sample enhanced carboxylic acid production. The difference in phenol production between OPMN and OPMNE could be attributed to the presence of potassium. From an environmental point of view, the use of olive pomace wastes could reduce CO2 emissions with further research and by developing experimental processes. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Following Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jacquet‐Smailovic Murielle , Tarquinio Cyril , Alla François , Denis Ilona , Kirche Amanda , Tarquinio Camille , Brennstuhl Marie‐Jo
Published: October 2020

The objective of the present review is to provide an overview of existing research that has reported on the association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ischemic heart disease. Specific focus is given to the incidence of PTSD following myocardial infarction (MI). A systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines was performed by searching four bibliographic databases: PubMed, PsychINFO, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. A total of 39 articles were included in this literature review. The results of these studies suggest that the occurrence of an acute cardiac event is likely to contribute to the development of PTSD. Not only is this type of psychiatric disorder associated with significant suffering and impaired quality of life, but it is also a predictor of an increased risk of recurrent adverse cardiovascular events and mortality. Screening, assessment, and treatment of PTSD and posttraumatic stress symptoms following a major cardiac event are critical for offsetting potential deleterious psychological and physical consequences.
Protein hydrolysates and phenolic compounds from fermented black beans inhibit markers related to obesity and type‐2 diabetes
Authors: Flores‐Medellín Sergio A. , Camacho‐Ruiz Rosa M. , Guízar‐González Cecilia , Rivera‐Leon Edgar A. , Llamas‐Covarrubias Iris M. , Mojica Luis
Published: October 2020

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represent an epidemic and public health problem. Bioactive compounds from foods could be used as adjuvants in the prevention of these diseases. Processes such as solid‐state fermentation (SSF) have demonstrated to improve the release of bioactive compounds from food matrix. This project aimed to evaluate the effect of fermented black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) phenolic compounds and protein hydrolysates on markers associated with obesity and T2DM. Twenty‐eight peptide sequences and 12 phenolic compounds were identified on black bean samples. From in silico assays, sequenced peptides showed theoretical binding energies up to −9.8 kcal/mol and phenolic compounds up to −10.1 kcal/mol for monoacylglycerol lipase. Protein hydrolysates from SSF 96 h (12 peptides) showed the potential to inhibit α‐amylase with inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) 0.57 mg protein/ml and 5.55 mg protein/ml for α‐glucosidase. Phenolic compounds from SSF 48 h blocked α‐glucosidase IC50 0.353 mg GAE/ml. The antioxidant capacity was maintained in phenolic compounds after fermentation for 48 h and improved in the protein hydrolysates. Raw bean protein hydrolysates (0.1 mg protein/ml) presented the potential to inhibit lipid accumulation in 3T3‐L1 cell line (27.9%). SSF is a processing method for generating functional ingredients rich in bioactive compounds capable of acting on biological markers related to the treatment or prevention of obesity and T2DM.
Conductive Biomaterials as Substrates for Neural Stem Cells Differentiation towards Neuronal Lineage Cells
Authors: Farokhi Mehdi , Mottaghitalab Fatemeh , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Shojaei Shahrokh , Zarrin Negin Khaneh , Thomas Sabu , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: October 2020

The injuries and defects in the central nervous system are the causes of disability and death of an affected person. As of now, there are no clinically available methods to enhance neural structural regeneration and functional recovery of nerve injuries. Recently, some experimental studies claimed that the injuries in brain can be repaired by progenitor or neural stem cells located in the neurogenic sites of adult mammalian brain. Various attempts have been made to construct biomimetic physiological microenvironment for neural stem cells to control their ultimate fate. Conductive materials have been considered as one the best choices for nerve regeneration due to the capacity to mimic the microenvironment of stem cells and regulate the alignment, growth, and differentiation of neural stem cells. The review highlights the use of conductive biomaterials, e.g., polypyrrole, polyaniline, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene), multi‐walled carbon nanotubes, single‐wall carbon nanotubes, graphene, and graphite oxide, for controlling the neural stem cells activities in terms of proliferation and neuronal differentiation. The effects of conductive biomaterials in axon elongation and synapse formation for optimal repair of central nervous system injuries are also discussed.
Geometric regularity estimates for fully nonlinear elliptic equations with free boundaries
Authors: da Silva João Vitor , Alves Leitão Júnior Raimundo , Chaves Ricarte Gleydson
Published: October 2020

In this manuscript we study geometric regularity estimates for problems driven by fully nonlinear elliptic operators (which can be either degenerate or singular when “the gradient is small”) under strong absorption conditions of the general form:
where the mapping fails to decrease fast enough at the origin, so allowing that nonnegative solutions may create plateau regions, that is, a priori unknown subsets where a given solution vanishes identically. We establish improved geometric regularity along the set (the free boundary of the model), for a sharp value of (obtained explicitly) depending only on structural parameters. Non‐degeneracy among others measure theoretical properties are also obtained. A sharp Liouville result for entire solutions with controlled growth at infinity is proved. We also present a number of applications consequential of our findings.
Opicapone Efficacy and Tolerability in Parkinson's Disease Patients Reporting Insufficient Benefit/Failure of Entacapone
Authors: Vokurka Petr , Barron Andrew , Sumaria Sheetal , Stockford Lindsey , Jarman Paul , Bhatia Kailash , Farmer Simon , Saifee Tabish , Warner Tom , Weil Rimona , Gandhi Sonia , Limousin Patricia , Korlipara Prasad , Foltynie Tom
Published: October 2020

Background

Opicapone, a recently introduced catechol‐o‐methyl transferase (COMT) inhibitor has the advantage of being administered once daily, and has pharmacokinetic data to indicate it offers a greater degree of COMT inhibition than entacapone. Although trial data indicate it is non‐inferior to entacapone, there are no data to indicate whether it offers any clinical advantages.

Methods

In this audit, we present data from 57 individuals prescribed opicapone at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square who had either not tolerated or reported insufficient benefit following previous prescription of entacapone.

Results

A total of 20 of 57 patients switched directly from entacapone to opicapone (“entacapone switchers”) whereas 37 of 57 patients had previously discontinued entacapone because of lack of benefit or adverse events (“entacapone failures”). A total of 21 of 57 (37%) patients stopped opicapone prior to 6 months. A total of 7 of 20 (35%) “entacapone switchers” experienced adverse events with opicapone of which 5 stopped the drug prior to the 6 month evaluation of efficacy. A total of 23 of 37 (62%) “entacapone failures” reported adverse events of which 16 stopped the drug. Among 36 of 57 (63%) patients who continued to use opicapone at 6 months, there was an improvement in OFF time of ~2 hours per day as measured by interview.

Conclusions

We conclude that opicapone can be an effective additional treatment for wearing off in Parkinson's disease (PD) in a subgroup of patients. The use of opicapone in our cohort with prior entacapone exposure, however, was associated with higher rates of adverse effects and treatment discontinuation than reported in published trial data of COMT inhibitor naïve patients.
Detection of novel Fabry disease‐associated pathogenic variants in Japanese patients by newborn and high‐risk screening
Authors: Sawada Takaaki , Kido Jun , Sugawara Keishin , Matsumoto Shirou , Takada Fumio , Tsuboi Kazuya , Ohtake Akira , Endo Fumio , Nakamura Kimitoshi
Published: October 2020

Background

In Japan, newborn and high‐risk screening for Fabry disease (FD), an inherited X‐linked disorder caused by GLA mutations, using dried blood spots was initiated in 2006. In newborn screening, 599,711 newborns were screened by December 2018, and 57 newborns from 54 families with 26 FD‐associated variants were detected. In high‐risk screening, 18,235 individuals who had symptoms and/or a family history of FD were screened by March 2019, and 236 individuals from 143 families with 101 FD‐associated variants were detected. Totally 3, 116 variants were detected; 41 of these were not registered in Fabry‐database.org or ClinVar and 33 were definitely novel. Herein, we report the clinical outcomes and discuss the pathogenicity of the 41 variants.

Methods

We traced nine newborns and 46 individuals with the 33 novel variants, and nine newborns and 10 individuals with eight other variants not registered in the FD database, and analyzed the information on symptoms, treatments, and outcomes.

Results

Thirty‐eight of the 46 individuals with the 33 novel variants showed symptoms and received enzyme‐replacement therapy and/or chaperone treatment.

Conclusion

Delayed diagnosis should be avoided in patients with FD. Our results will help clinicians diagnose FD and determine the appropriate treatment for patients with these variants.
Mechanism of Bi−Ni Phase Formation in a Microwave‐Assisted Polyol Process
Authors: Smuda Matthias , Damm Christine , Ruck Michael , Doert Thomas
Published: October 2020

Typically, intermetallic phases are obtained in solid‐state reactions or crystallization from melts, which are highly energy and time consuming. The polyol process takes advantage of low temperatures and short reaction times using easily obtainable starting materials. The formation mechanism of these intermetallic particles has received little attention so far, even though a deeper understanding should allow for better synthesis planning. In this study, we therefore investigated the formation of BiNi particles in ethylene glycol in a microwave‐assisted polyol process mechanistically. The coordination behavior in solution was analyzed using HPLC‐MS and UV‐Vis. Tracking the reaction with PXRD measurements, FT‐IR spectroscopy and HR‐TEM revealed a successive reduction of Bi3+ and Ni2+, leading to novel spherical core‐shell structure in a first reaction step. Bismuth particles are encased in a matrix of nickel nanoparticles of 2 nm to 6 nm in diameter and oxidation products of ethylene glycol. Step‐wise diffusion of nickel into the bismuth particle intermediately results in the bismuth‐rich compound Bi3Ni, which consecutively transforms into the BiNi phase as the reaction progresses. The impacts of the anion type, temperature and pH value were also investigated.
Comparative Secretomics Gives Access to High Confident Secretome Data: Evaluation of Different Methods for the Determination of Bona Fide Secreted Proteins
Authors: Poschmann Gereon , Brenig Katrin , Lenz Thomas , Stühler Kai
Published: October 2020

Secretome analysis is broadly applied to understand the interplay between cells and their microenvironment. In particular, the unbiased analysis by mass spectrometry‐based proteomics of conditioned medium has been successfully applied. In this context, several approaches have been developed allowing to distinguish proteins actively secreted by cells from proteins derived from culture medium or proteins released from dying cells. Here, three different methods comparing conditioned medium and lysate by quantitative mass spectrometry‐based proteomics to identify bona fide secreted proteins are evaluated. Evaluation in three different human cell lines reveals that all three methods give access to a similar set of bona fide secreted proteins covering a broad abundance range. In the analyzed primary cells, that is, mesenchymal stromal cells and normal human dermal fibroblasts, more than 70% of the identified proteins are linked to classical secretion pathways. Furthermore, 4–12% are predicted to be released by unconventional secretion pathways. Interestingly, evidence of release by ectodomain shedding in a large number of the remaining candidate proteins is found. In summary, it is convinced that comparative secretomics is currently the method of choice to obtain high‐confident secretome data and to identify novel candidates for unconventional protein secretion which have been neglected so far.
Preparation of Ultrafine CL‐20 by Wet Grinding Method and the Study on Its Properties
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Ni Bing , Li Kun , Nan Hai , Niu Yulei , Jiang Fan , Li Xin
Published: October 2020

In this paper, ultrafine CL‐20 was prepared by wet grinding procedure. The morphology, particle size, sample composition, and crystal structure of CL‐20 before and after grinding were detected by scanning electron microscope, laser granulometer, infrared Raman Spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction instrument. The thermal decomposition, mechanical sensitivity, shock wave sensitivity, flame sensitivity, bulk density, and rheological property of CL‐20 based explosives were tested. The results indicated that the crystal form of CL‐20 was retained as ϵ‐form after wet grinding. The ground CL‐20 was superior in physical properties to the raw CL‐20, such as smaller particle size, smooth surface, less mechanical sensitiveness, and lower flame sensitivity. However, the thermal stability was slightly decreased. Moreover, the bulk density of ground CL‐20 was higher, which leading to an increase in density of shaped charge column. The viscosity of the CL‐20 based cast explosive formulation was effectively reduced, that can improve the process of explosive formulation and the process adaptability. In addition, under high strain rate loading, the impact safety of the explosive prepared with ground CL‐20 is improved.
The pMy vector series: A versatile cloning platform for the recombinant production of mycobacterial proteins in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Beckham Katherine S. H. , Staack Sonja , Wilmanns Matthias , Parret Annabel H. A.
Published: October 2020

Structural and biophysical characterization of molecular mechanisms of disease‐causing pathogens, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, often requires recombinant expression of large amounts highly pure protein. For the production of mycobacterial proteins, overexpression in the fast‐growing and non‐pathogenic species Mycobacterium smegmatis has several benefits over the standard Escherichia coli expression strains. However, unlike for E. coli, the range of expression vectors currently available is limited. Here we describe the development of the pMy vector series, a set of expression plasmids for recombinant production of single proteins and protein complexes in M. smegmatis. By incorporating an alternative selection marker, we show that these plasmids can also be used for co‐expression studies. All vectors in the pMy vector series are available in the Addgene repository (www.addgene.com).
Comparison of chemigation versus foliar insecticide use: management of lepidopteran larvae and stink bugs in North Carolina field tomatoes with environmental and farmworker benefits
Authors: Walgenbach James F , Bilbo Tom R , Tussey Dylan A , Ogburn Emily C
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Commercial vegetable production in the United States of America (USA) often relies on foliar insecticide sprays for managing key insect pests. However, foliar applications of insecticides have a number of drawbacks to the health of consumers, farmworkers and the environment. Drip chemigation is the application of pesticides to the soil through trickle (drip) irrigation systems, and can overcome a number of the drawbacks typical of foliar insecticide applications.

RESULTS

We conducted a two‐year study in five commercial fields of staked tomatoes in western North Carolina to compare the efficacy, economics and environmental impact of drip chemigation versus foliar sprays. Drip chemigation significantly reduced insecticide inputs, utilized more selective and environmentally compatible insecticides, and reduced the time lost to reentry intervals, while maintaining comparable efficacy and economic returns.

CONCLUSIONS

Drip chemigation was an effective tool for managing key insect pests, provided a broad range of human and environmental health benefits, and will likely become increasingly cost‐effective in the future as insecticide patents expire and more insecticide options become available.
Visible Emission on Nanostructured CeO2 Thin Films Obtained by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: García Sánchez Mario Fidel , Ponce Rosas Ismael , Malagón García José Francisco , Andraca Adame José Alberto , Lartundo‐Rojas Luis , Santana Guillermo
Published: October 2020

Herein, the influence of the flow rate, substrate temperature, and thermal annealing at 700 °C on the optical and structural parameters of nanostructured ceria thin films prepared by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis is evaluated. The morphology, structure, and optical properties are studied by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and photoluminescence (PL). The spray conditions are optimized for obtaining smooth, dense, and homogeneous nanocrystalline films with grain sizes smaller than 20 nm. XPS demonstrates a high percentage (≈40%) of Ce3+ in the films, even in heat‐treated films (≈25%). The Ce3+ concentration does not depend on the growth temperature. Intense peaks at 575 and 618 nm are observed in PL measurements. These peaks are not reported in pure ceria thin films, they are dependent on the growth parameters (director and carrier gas flow rates and substrate temperature), and they are associated with levels produced by oxygen defects in the films. Variations in the flow rate modify the optimal temperature and the kinetic reaction, which also modifies the preferential orientation and the defect distribution in the films.