bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive analysis of GTP cyclohydrolase I activity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv via in silico studies
Authors: Agarwal Preeti , Meena Swati , Meena Laxman S.
Published: July 2020

GTP cyclohydrolase I enzyme (GTPCH‐I) is a rate limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis pathway of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and tetrahydrofolate (THF) compounds; latter being are an essential compounds involved in many biological functions. This enzyme has been evaluated structurally and functionally in many organisms to understand its putative role in cell processes, kinetics, regulations, drug targeting in infectious diseases, pain sensitivity in humans, and so on. In Mycobacterium tuberculosis (a human pathogen causing tuberculosis), this GTPCH‐I activity has been predicted to be present in Rv3609c gene (folE) of H37Rv strain, which till date has not been studied in detail. In order to understand in depth, the structure and function of folE protein in M. tuberculosis H37Rv, in silico study was designed by using many different bioinformatics tools. Comparative and structural analysis predicts that Rv3609c gene is similar to folE protein ortholog of Listeria monocytogenes (cause food born disease), and uses zinc ion as a cofactor for its catalysis. Result shows that mutation of folE protein at 52th residue from tyrosine to glycine or variation in pH and temperature can lead to high destability in protein structure. Studies here have also predicted about the functional regions and interacting partners involved with folE protein. This study has provided clues to carry out experimentally the analysis of folE protein in mycobacteria and if found suitable will be used for drug targeting.
Efficient process development for high‐level production, purification, formulation, and characterization of recombinant mecasermin in Escherichia coli
Authors: Mofid Mohammad Reza , Babaeipour Valiollah , Jafari Sevda , Haddad Leila , Moghim Sharareh , Ghanavi Jalaledin
Published: July 2020

Overproduction of recombinant mecasermin was achieved by investigation of effect of three factors, temperature, inducer amount, and culture media, at three levels according to the Taguchi statistical design in Escherichia coli in a bench‐scale bioreactor. In optimal conditions (induction temperature 28 °C, terrific broth with glucose (TB+G) medium, with 0.1 mM IPTG as inducer) 0.84 g/L mecasermin with expression levels of 38% of total protein and 4.13 g/L final dry cell biomass was produced, that is one of the highest values of recombinant protein has been reported in the batch system. The cell disruption was done by lysozyme pretreatment with sonication to the efficient purification of mecasermin. The isolated and washed inclusion bodies were solubilized in Gdn‐HCl at pH 5.4 and folded with glutathione and purified with gel filtration. The purified rhIGF‐1 (mecasermin) was formulated with arginine. Mecasermin protein remained t stable at 4 °C for up to 2 years. The quantitative and qualitative control indicated that mecasermin is expressed correctly (without the initial methionine by mass spectrometry), pure (without endotoxin and other protein impurities), correct folding (FTIR, RF‐HPLC), monomer form (SEC‐HPLC), and active (bioactivity test). Also, the purification results revealed that expression at low temperature results in the efficient purification of the overproduced mecasermin with high quantity and quality.
Comparing the preventive behavior of medical students and physicians in the era of COVID‐19: Novel medical problems demand novel curricular interventions
Authors: Haque Ayesha , Mumtaz Sadaf , Khattak Osama , Mumtaz Rafia , Ahmed Amal
Published: July 2020

The global challenge presented by COVID‐19 is unparalleled. Shortages in healthcare staff and manpower bring the practical skills of medical students under the spotlight. However, before they can be placed on hospital frontlines, it is crucial to assess their preparedness for patient interaction. This can be achieved by comparing their behavioral dynamics to those of physicians. An online questionnaire was administered between March 20, 2020 and March 27, 2020. The preventive strategies adopted by medical students and physicians at different ages and levels of education were compared by using chi‐square test where a p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. We report that the demonstration of preventive behaviors increased with educational attainment and age. Older age groups avoided crowded areas, wore more masks, used disinfectants and did not touch their faces as compared to the younger participants (p < 0.001). Similarly, postgraduate doctors used more masks and disinfectants as compared to graduate doctors and medical students (p < 0.001). Based on our results, the lack of preventive behavior shown by medical students has implications for policy makers. We recommend short‐ and long‐term changes to medical programs and admissions policies to equip medical students with the personal and professional skills to better contribute to the healthcare system in the present pandemic and beyond.
Moving the human biology program from face‐to‐face to online delivery mode in the time of COVID‐19
Authors: Papaneophytou Christos , Stavride Phoebe , Nicolaou Stella A.
Published: July 2020

Following the COVID‐19 lockdown, the BSc in Human Biology Program of the University of Nicosia switched from face‐to‐face to online delivery mode. Herein we describe how we identified and managed the challenges that arose to successfully complete the Semester.
Proactive environmental and social strategies in a small‐ to medium‐sized company: A case study of a Japanese SME
Authors: Eweje Gabriel
Published: July 2020

There has been on‐going attention paid to small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) regarding how the sector manages their environmental and social impacts. This study examines the application of environmental and social sustainability practices in a Japanese SME because research on sustainability practices of such SMEs has been limited although SMEs in Japan contribute 70% of total employment and 20% of the gross national product. This study employed a qualitative case study approach based on responses from the CEO/owner of the case company and 123 employees. Using managerial discretion theory, this study found that the case company CEO/owner's decision‐making process, motivation, philosophy and determination to adapt sustainability practices played a major role in influencing employees' support for the company sustainability initiatives and contributed to positive staff turnover. This study found that if sustainability initiatives and practices are embedded into SMEs' business activities from the outset, their negative environmental and social impacts can be greatly reduced.
Does the EU Directive on non‐financial information influence the value relevance of ESG disclosure? Italian evidence
Authors: Cordazzo Michela , Bini Laura , Marzo Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

The implementation of the EU Directive on non‐financial information determines the transition from a voluntary to a mandatory disclosure setting. This paper is a first attempt to investigate if this transition influences the value relevance of non‐financial information, which relates to the environmental, social and governance disclosure (ESG) requirements of the Directive. Italy provides an interesting setting as non‐financial information was generally voluntary before the Directive, which was implemented with the Italian Legislative Decree 254/2016. To this extent, we examine the non‐financial, environmental and social disclosure practices of 231 Italian listed firms in the pre‐ (2016) and post‐ (2017) Legislative Decree application. Our results do not show any relevant increase of such disclosures after the Legislative Decree application, as Italian listed firms limit such disclosure to a minimum requirement. Further, this finding is confirmed also for those firms voluntarily providing a non‐financial report (sustainability or integrated report) before the Legislative Decree application. Our regression analysis shows that accounting numbers are associated with share prices, while non‐financial, environmental and social information are not value‐relevant with reference to the pre‐ and post‐Legislative Decree application. This means that the non‐financial, environmental and social information beyond the financial accounting information do not explain any incremental value‐relevant information to investors in the non‐financial mandatory disclosure setting required by the new regulation. Our results enrich previous evidence concerning the value relevance of non‐financial and ESG disclosure mainly focused on Anglo‐Saxon contexts.
A rare case of fenpyroximate poisoning with presenting anticholinesterase poisoning signs
Authors: Kheirkhah Soodabeh , Bahmani Kiumars
Published: July 2020

We report a case of fenpyroximate poisoning with cholinergic signs that could be due to mixing it with anticholinesterase. Clinicians should consider co‐ingestion of pesticides to proper diagnosis and management of the pesticide poisoning.
The Photoisomerization Pathway(s) of Push–Pull Phenylazoheteroarenes**
Authors: Vela Sergi , Corminboeuf Clémence
Published: July 2020

Azoheteroarenes are the most recent derivatives targeted to further improve the properties of azo‐based photoswitches. Their light‐induced mechanism for trans–cis isomerization is assumed to be very similar to that of the parent azobenzene. As such, they inherited the controversy about the dominant isomerization pathway (rotation vs. inversion) depending on the excited state (nπ* vs. ππ*). Although the controversy seems settled in azobenzene, the extent to which the same conclusions apply to the more structurally diverse family of azoheteroarenes is unclear. Here, by means of non‐adiabatic molecular dynamics, the photoisomerization mechanism of three prototypical phenyl‐azoheteroarenes with increasing push–pull character is unraveled. The evolution of the rotational and inversion conical intersection energies, the preferred pathway, and the associated kinetics upon both nπ* and ππ* excitations can be linked directly with the push–pull substitution effects. Overall, the working conditions of this family of azo‐dyes is clarified and a possibility to exploit push–pull substituents to tune their photoisomerization mechanism is identified, with potential impact on their quantum yield.
“Missing” acute coronary syndrome hospitalizations during the COVID‐19 era in Greece: Medical care avoidance combined with a true reduction in incidence?
Authors: Papafaklis Michail I. , Katsouras Christos S. , Tsigkas Grigorios , Toutouzas Konstantinos , Davlouros Periklis , Hahalis George N. , Kousta Maria S. , Styliadis Ioannis G. , Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Pappas Loukas , Tsiourantani Fotini , Varytimiadi Efthymia , Anyfantakis Zacharias‐Alexandros , Iakovis Nikolaos , Grammata Paraskevi , Karvounis Haralambos , Ziakas Antonios , Sianos George , Tziakas Dimitrios , Pappa Evgenia , Dagre Anna , Patsilinakos Sotirios , Trikas Athanasios , Lamprou Thomais , Mamarelis Ioannis , Katsimagklis Georgios , Karmpaliotis Dimitri , Naka Katerina , Michalis Lampros K.
Published: July 2020

Background

Reports from countries severely hit by the COVID‐19 pandemic suggest a decline in acute coronary syndrome (ACS)‐related hospitalizations. The generalizability of this observation on ACS admissions and possible related causes in countries with low COVID‐19 incidence are not known.

Hypothesis

ACS admissions were reduced in a country spared by COVID‐19.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide study on the incidence rates of ACS‐related admissions during a 6‐week period of the COVID‐19 outbreak and the corresponding control period in 2019 in Greece, a country with strict social measures, low COVID‐19 incidence, and no excess in mortality.

Results

ACS admissions in the COVID‐19 (n = 771) compared with the control (n = 1077) period were reduced overall (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.72, P < .001) and for each ACS type (ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction [STEMI]: IRR: 0.76, P = .001; non‐STEMI: IRR: 0.74, P < .001; and unstable angina [UA]: IRR: 0.63, P = .002). The decrease in STEMI admissions was stable throughout the COVID‐19 period (temporal correlation; R2 = 0.11, P = .53), whereas there was a gradual decline in non‐STEMI/UA admissions (R2 = 0.75, P = .026) following the progressively stricter social measures. During the COVID‐19 period, patients admitted with ACS presented more frequently with left ventricular systolic impairment (22.2 vs 15.5% control period; P < .001).

Conclusions

We observed a reduction in ACS hospitalizations during the COVID‐19 outbreak in a country with strict social measures, low community transmission, and no excess in mortality. Medical care avoidance behavior is an important factor for these observations, while a true reduction of the ACS incidence due to self‐isolation/quarantining may have also played a role.
Auditory impairment in H‐ABC tubulinopathy
Authors: Lopez‐Juarez Alejandra , Gonzalez‐Vega Arturo , Kleinert‐Altamirano Anke , Piazza Valeria , Garduno‐Robles Angeles , Alata Milvia , Villaseñor‐Mora Carlos , Eguibar Jose R. , Cortes Carmen , Padierna Luis Carlos , Hernandez Victor H.
Published: July 2020

Hypomyelination with atrophy of the basal ganglia and cerebellum (H‐ABC) is a neurodegenerative disease due to mutations in TUBB4A. Patients suffer from extrapyramidal movements, spasticity, ataxia, and cognitive deficits. Magnetic resonance imaging features are hypomyelination and atrophy of the striatum and cerebellum. A correlation between the mutations and their cellular, tissue and organic effects is largely missing. The effects of these mutations on sensory functions have not been described so far. We have previously reported a rat carrying a TUBB4A (A302T) mutation and sharing most of the clinical and radiological signs with H‐ABC patients. Here, for the first time, we did a comparative study of the hearing function in an H‐ABC patient and in this mutant model. By analyzing hearing function, we found that there are no significant differences in the auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds between mutant rats and WT controls. Nevertheless, ABRs show longer latencies in central waves (II–IV) that in some cases disappear when compared to WT. The patient also shows abnormal AEPs presenting only Waves I and II. Distortion product of otoacoustic emissions and immunohistochemistry in the rat show that the peripheral hearing function and morphology of the organ of Corti are normal. We conclude that the tubulin mutation severely impairs the central hearing pathway most probably by progressive central white matter degeneration. Hearing function might be affected in a significant fraction of patients with H‐ABC; therefore, screening for auditory function should be done on patients with tubulinopathies to evaluate hearing support therapies.
Uncertainty in model‐based treatment decision support: Applied to aortic valve stenosis
Authors: Meiburg Roel , Huberts Wouter , Rutten Marcel C. M. , van de Vosse Frans N.
Published: July 2020

Patient outcome in trans‐aortic valve implantation (TAVI) therapy partly relies on a patient's haemodynamic properties that cannot be determined from current diagnostic methods alone. In this study, we predict changes in haemodynamic parameters (as a part of patient outcome) after valve replacement treatment in aortic stenosis patients. A framework to incorporate uncertainty in patient‐specific model predictions for decision support is presented. A 0D lumped parameter model including the left ventricle, a stenotic valve and systemic circulatory system has been developed, based on models published earlier. The unscented Kalman filter (UKF) is used to optimize model input parameters to fit measured data pre‐intervention. After optimization, the valve treatment is simulated by significantly reducing valve resistance. Uncertain model parameters are then propagated using a polynomial chaos expansion approach. To test the proposed framework, three in silico test cases are developed with clinically feasible measurements. Quality and availability of simulated measured patient data are decreased in each case. The UKF approach is compared to a Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) approach, a well‐known approach in modelling predictions with uncertainty. Both methods show increased confidence intervals as measurement quality decreases. By considering three in silico test‐cases we were able to show that the proposed framework is able to incorporate optimization uncertainty in model predictions and is faster and the MCMC approach, although it is more sensitive to noise in flow measurements. To conclude, this work shows that the proposed framework is ready to be applied to real patient data.
Feature extraction based ondeep‐convolutional neural network for face recognition
Authors: Li Xiaolin , Niu Haitao
Published: July 2020

Feature extraction is a critical technology that affects the accuracy of face recognition. However, certain features are highly related to changes in face are difficult to extract because of the influences of individual differences and illumination. Therefore, features can accurately describe the changes in face are urgently required. For this reason, this article proposes a feature extraction method based on deep learning. This method combines the features extracted by Local Binary Patterns and by Convolutional Neural Network convolutional layer in the network connection layer, thus obtaining classification features with high representation ability and solving the problem of single feature extraction. The VGG‐16 network proposed in this article has been improved by changing the framework structure. Some experiments based on the Labeled Faces in the Wild dataset are performed, and results show that, in terms of accuracy and the sensitivity to light, the proposed method reaches 99.56% and 80.35% respectively. The recognition results obtained from fused features are superior to which of single feature recognition. Simulation results show that the method is more robust to changes in the illumination condition and more efficient than the existing methods.
A systematic literature review of childhood externalizing psychopathology and later psychotic symptoms
Authors: Gin Kimberley , Stewart Catherine , Jolley Suzanne
Published: July 2020

Childhood onset mental health difficulties are known to be associated with later mental health disorders and worse prognoses in adulthood. Individuals who develop schizophrenia present, from childhood onwards, with cognitive deficits, psychotic‐like experiences (PLEs) and internalizing and externalizing problems (EPs). People with a diagnosis of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) are also more likely than people without this diagnosis to engage in aggressive behaviour towards others. This systematic review examines the evidence base investigating associations between childhood EPs and later psychotic symptoms. Searches were conducted on Ovid (Medline and Psychinfo), Pubmed and Scopus. PRISMA best‐practice guidelines for conducting systematic literature reviews were followed. Data were extracted from predefined items and assessed using a quality rating scale. Fifteen studies were identified. Eleven of the 15 studies reported significant associations between childhood externalizing psychopathology and later psychotic symptoms, one study reported an association that did not reach significance, and three studies found no associations. Despite the substantial variations in conceptualization of EP, PLEs and SSD, this review found preliminary evidence for an association between childhood antisocial and aggressive behaviour and the later development of psychotic symptoms. Assessing children with EP for PLEs may be important to inform psychological therapies. More longitudinal studies are needed to better understand outcomes for children with presentations across the EP spectrum.
Photocatalytic H2 Evolution from Ammonia Borane: Improvement of Charge Separation and Directional Charge Transmission
Authors: Zhang Sishi , Xu Jie , Cheng Hongmei , Zang Cuicui , Bian Fengxia , Sun Bin , Shen Yu , Jiang Heyan
Published: July 2020

Co/MIIFe layered double hydroxide (LDH) LDH photocatalysts have been designed from the aspect of employing stable half‐filled Fe3+ to trap photogenerated electrons, adjusting the MII−O−Fe oxo‐bridged structure to optimize the short‐range directional charge transmission and intercalating oxometallate anions into the LDH to further improve light absorption along with electron‐hole separation and non‐noble metal Co NP loading and reduction to form a heterojunction. These LDH‐based photocatalysts are employed for photocatalytic H2 evolution from ammonia borane in aqueous solution under visible light at 298 K. The photocatalytic H2 evolution activity is greatly improved through adjustment of the MII−O−Fe oxo‐bridged structure and molybdate intercalation into the LDH. Turnover frequencies of up to 113.2 min−1 are achieved with Co/CoFe−Mo. Alongside the experimental results and materials characterization, capture experiments and in situ DRIFTS analysis are carried out to study the photocatalytic hydrogen production mechanism.
A Dendrite‐Structured RbX (X=Br, I) Interlayer for CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells with Over 15 % Stabilized Efficiency
Authors: He Jingjing , Ge Bing , Hou Yu , Yang Shuang , Yang Hua Gui
Published: July 2020

Interface engineering has shown great potential to improve the photovoltaic performance and long‐term stability of perovskite solar cells. Herein, RbX (X=Br, I) materials were developed as the interfacial modifiers for CsPbI2Br solar cells that realized power conversion efficiencies (PCE) over 15 % with a high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.27 V. The RbX interlayer having a dendrite‐shaped structure could optimize the surface wetting behavior of TiO2 films and thus enabled formation of high‐quality perovskite films. More importantly, RbX could better align the devices’ energy levels and passivate surface defects because of its large bandgap. The PCE of a CsPbI2Br device with RbX interlayer remained 87 % of its initial efficiency for 800 h in ambient atmosphere.
CD8+ tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes within the primary tumor of patients with synchronous de novo metastatic colorectal carcinoma do not track with survival
Authors: Millen Rosemary , Hendry Shona , Narasimhan Vignesh , Abbott Rebecca , Croxford Matthew , Gibbs Peter , Tie Jeanne , Wong Hui‐Li , Jones Ian , Kosmider Suzanne , Byrne David , Zalcberg John , Fox Stephen , Desai Jayesh , Visvanathan Kumar , Ramsay Robert G , Tran Ben
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), particularly CD8+ TILs in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), are highly prognostic in the early‐disease stages (I‐II). In metastatic disease (stage IV; mCRC), their influence is less well defined. It has presumably failed to contain tumor cells to the primary site; however, is this evident? We explored the prognostic impact of TILs at the primary site in patients who presented de novo with mCRC.

Methods

Treatment‐naïve patients (109) with mCRC were assessed for CD8+ TILs and PD‐L1 expression. Microsatellite instability (MSI) was evaluated by IHC for PMS2 and MSH6 proteins and/or by PCR using the Bethesda panel.

Results

Microsatellite instability‐high tumors had significantly more CD8+ TILs, with no significant survival advantage observed between MSI‐H and microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors (12 vs 19 months, P = 0.304). TIL density for all cases had no impact on OS (low: 20 vs high: 13 months, P = 0.426), while PD‐L1 of 1% or higher was associated with reduced mean survival (9.6 vs 18.9 months; P = 0.038). MSI‐H tumors and associated immune cells had higher PD‐L1 expression than in MSS cases. A positive correlation between PD‐L1 on immune cells and CD8+ve TILs was found. A subset of MSS tumors had relatively high TILs approximating that of MSI‐H tumors.

Conclusion

In contrast to early‐stage CRC, the immune response in primary tumors of patients with de novo mCRC does not appear to influence survival. A subgroup of MSS tumors was identified with increased TILs/PD‐L1 comparable to MSI‐H tumors, traditionally not be considered for immune checkpoint blockade and perhaps should be.
Effectiveness of intensive cognitive behavioral therapy in adolescents and adults with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Dalle Grave Riccardo , Conti Maddalena , Calugi Simona
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an intensive treatment based on enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT‐E) in adolescent and adult patients with anorexia nervosa.

Methods

A total of 150 consecutive patients (74 adolescents and 81 adults) were admitted to a 20‐week intensive CBT‐E program (13 weeks of inpatient followed by 7 weeks of day‐hospital treatment). All patients had responded poorly to previous outpatient treatments and were assessed at admission, end of treatment (EOT), and 20‐ and 60‐week follow‐ups.

Results

About 70% of eligible patients began the program, and more than 85% completed it. Body mass index (BMI) in adults and BMI‐for‐age percentile in adolescents improved significantly from baseline to EOT, remained stable until 20‐week follow‐up, and slightly decreased from 20‐week follow‐up to 60‐week follow‐up, while remaining in the lower normal range. Eating disorder psychopathology, general psychopathology, and clinical impairment scores decreased significantly at EOT and showed only a slight increase from EOT to follow‐ups. No difference was found between adolescent and adult patients in treatment acceptance, dropout, or any outcome measure.

Discussion

These findings indicate that intensive CBT‐E seems to be an effective treatment for severely ill adolescent and adult patients with anorexia nervosa.
Thermal evolution of life history and heat tolerance during range expansions toward warmer and cooler regions
Authors: Carbonell José Antonio , Stoks Robby
Published: July 2020

Species’ range edges are expanding to both warmer and cooler regions. Yet, no studies directly compared the changes in range‐limiting traits within the same species during both types of range expansions. To increase our mechanistic understanding of range expansions, it is crucial to disentangle the contributions of plastic and genetic changes in these traits. The aim of this study was to test for plastic and evolutionary changes in heat tolerance, life history, and behavior, and compare these during range expansions toward warmer and cooler regions. Using laboratory experiments we reconstructed the thermal performance curves (TPCurves) of larval life history (survival, growth, and development rates) and larval heat tolerance (CTmax) across two recent range expansions from the core populations in southern France toward a warmer (southeastern Spain) and a cooler (northwestern Spain) region in Europe by the damselfly Ischnura elegans. First‐generation larvae from field‐collected mothers were reared across a range of temperatures (16°–28°C) in incubators. The range expansion to the warmer region was associated with the evolution of a greater ability to cope with high temperatures (increased mean and thermal plasticity of CTmax), faster development, and, in part, a faster growth, indicating a higher time constraints caused by a shorter time frame available for larval development associated with a transition to a greater voltinism. Our results thereby support the emerging pattern that plasticity in heat tolerance alone is inadequate to adapt to new thermal regimes. The range expansion to the cooler region was associated with faster growth indicating countergradient variation without a change in CTmax. The evolution of a faster growth rate during both range expansions could be explained by a greater digestive efficiency rather than an increased food intake. Our results highlight that range expansions to warmer and cooler regions can result in similar evolutionary changes in the TPCurves for life history, and no opposite changes in heat tolerance.
Degrees of change: between and within population variation in thermal reaction norms of phenology in a viviparous lizard
Authors: Cunningham George D. , While Geoffrey M. , Olsson Mats , Ljungström Gabriella , Wapstra Erik
Published: July 2020

As the earth warms, populations will be faced with novel environments to which they may not be adapted. In the short term, populations can be buffered against the negative effects, or maximize the beneficial effects, of such environmental change via phenotypic plasticity and, in the longer term, via adaptive evolution. However, the extent and direction of these population‐level responses will be dependent on the degree to which responses vary among the individuals within them (i.e., within population variation in plasticity), which is, itself, likely to vary among populations. Despite this, we have estimates of among‐individual variation in plastic responses across multiple populations for only a few systems. This lack of data limits our ability to predict the consequences of environmental change for population and species persistence accurately. Here, we utilized a 16‐yr data set from climatically distinct populations of the viviparous skink Niveoscincus ocellatus tracking over 1,200 litters from more than 600 females from each population to examine inter‐ and intrapopulation variability in the response of parturition date to environmental temperature. We found that these populations share a common population‐mean reaction norm but differ in the degree to which reaction norms vary among individuals. These results suggest that even where populations share a common mean‐level response, we cannot assume that they will be affected similarly by altered environmental conditions. If we are to assess how changing climates will impact species and populations accurately, we require estimates of how plastic responses vary both among and within populations.
High‐intensity training as a novel treatment for impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes [HIT4HYPOS]: Protocol for a randomized parallel‐group study
Authors: Farrell Catriona M. , McNeilly Alison D. , West Daniel , McCrimmon Rory J.
Published: July 2020

Aim

This pilot study aimed to investigate whether a 4‐week programme of intermittent high‐intensity training (HIT) will improve counterregulatory responses and improve hypoglycaemia awareness in adults with type 1 diabetes who have been exposed to recurrent hypoglycaemia.

Methods

Adults with type 1 diabetes who have been exposed to recurrent hypoglycaemia will be recruited from NHS Tayside, Scotland. All participants have a 4‐week run‐in period to optimize glycaemic control and to receive instruction in hypoglycaemia avoidance using insulin dose adjustment and real‐time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Following this, they will undergo a baseline 90‐minute hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemic clamp to assess symptomatic, cognitive and hormonal counterregulatory responses. Subsequently, participants will be randomized in a parallel‐group design to either undergo a 4‐week intervention with HIT or to no exercise with both groups using CGM throughout and receiving additional advice on hypoglycaemia avoidance. Participants in the HIT arm of the trial will be instructed to exercise 3 times a week on a cycle ergometer and asked to achieve ≥ 90% max heart rate during each period of exercise. On completion of the intervention period, all subjects then undergo a second matched hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemic clamp study.

Discussion

This pilot study will determine whether high‐intensity exercise may offer a novel approach to restore hypoglycaemic awareness in type 1 diabetes (International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials No: ISRCTN15373978).
Applications of Chiral Cyclopentadienyl (Cpx) Metal Complexes in Asymmetric Catalysis
Authors: Shaaban Saad , Davies Caitlin , Waldmann Herbert
Published: July 2020

Metal complexes containing cyclopentadienyl (Cp) ligands are versatile and robust catalysts widely applied in organic synthesis. During the last two decades chiral Cpx complexes have been applied in a variety of enantioselective transformations. Often associated with Group 9 metals (Co, Rh, Ir), chiral Cpx ligands have also been used in combination with early transition‐metals and rare‐earth elements. In this minireview asymmetric reactions that have been successfully steered with chiral Cpx ligand metal complexes are discussed according to the metal coordinated. Several ligand designs have successfully been used in a diverse array of reactions, in particular C–H functionalisation, with binaphthyl‐derived ligands leading this field. Challenges with these ligands derive from the need for their multi‐step synthesis, and recently new ligands were designed, which can be accessed in shorter sequences from readily available starting materials.
Concentration‐Dependent Thermal Isomerization of Nitrile N‐Oxide
Authors: Bando Shiho , Koyama Yasuhito , Takata Toshikazu
Published: July 2020

Kinetically stabilized nitrile N‐oxides (NOs) have been regarded as viable tools for the postpolymerization functionalization of common polymers. However, thermal isomerization of NO to isocyanate restricts the applications of NO to industrial use. The reaction mechanism for the thermal isomerization has not been systematically evaluated. Herein, we report the concentration‐dependent isomerization of NOs for the first time. The time‐course plots suggest that the isomerization of NO would be driven by a very small amount of polymeric intermediate generated in situ in a substituent‐dependent equilibrium. The substituent effects of NO on the isomerization have been clarified with the kinetic parameters and the reaction order. It is indicated that an electron‐donating para‐substituent facilitates both the intermediate‐forming reaction and the rearrangement reaction.
A social cure in the community: A mixed‐method exploration of the role of social identity in the experiences and well‐being of community volunteers
Authors: Bowe Mhairi , Gray Debra , Stevenson Clifford , McNamara Niamh , Wakefield Juliet R. H. , Kellezi Blerina , Wilson Iain , Cleveland Michelle , Mair Elizabeth , Halder Moon , Costa Sebastiano
Published: July 2020

Cohesive, resilient communities are vital to the well‐being of residents. Uncovering the determinants of successful community identities is therefore essential to progressing the community health agenda. Engaging in community participation through volunteering may be one pathway to building local community identity and enhancing residents’ health and well‐being, but the group processes connecting them remain unexplored. We conducted two studies investigating these dynamics using the “Social Cure” perspective. First, we analysed 53 in‐depth interviews with volunteers, finding that community relationships shaped their experiences and that volunteering influenced their sense of community belonging, support, and well‐being. Second, a community survey (N = 619) revealed that volunteering predicts well‐being through the serial mediators of community identification and social support. Our article demonstrates the Social Cure processes involved in community‐based volunteering, their impact on community identity, support and well‐being, and their implications for community health, and the provision and sustainability of community voluntary action and interventions.
Experimental investigation on performance, combustion, and emission characteristics of diesel doped with green synthesized nano cerium oxide
Authors: Ramalingam Magudieshwaran , Ramasamy Venkatachalam , Palanisamy Senthilkumar , Subramaniam Magibalan , Muthusamy Kathirselvam
Published: July 2020

This study reports the potential of Cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles synthesized from Jatropha curcus leaves and Insulin plant extracts to use as a doping constituent with diesel fuel. Investigations were carried out to analyze the effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles on engine performance and smoke emission characteristics. X‐ray diffraction study witness the presence of Cerium oxide in the plant extracts and the average crystal size of CeO2 nanoparticles synthesized from J. curcus leaves and insulin plant extracts was 5 and 25 nm, respectively. Experimental runs were carried out on a 4 stroke direct injection VCR diesel engines at two different compression ratios. The result showed that the brake thermal efficiency is increased by a maximum of 5.5% for 25 ppm CeO2 extract blend from insulin plant with diesel fuel. CO and HC emissions of CeO2 doped diesel blends are lowered by up to 38 and 40% at full load conditions in line with neat diesel and also presents significant results in emission characteristics. Finally, it is worth stating that doping of 25 ppm CeO2 nanoparticles from insulin extracts with diesel at compression ratio of 16 can establish better results than diesel.
Experimental performance study of a hybrid compressed air‐electric vehicle prototype
Authors: Evrin Reza Alizade , Dincer Ibrahim
Published: July 2020

In this paper, the prototype of a new hybrid compressed air‐electric vehicle is developed, analyzed, built and tested. The system consists of a novel hybrid electric‐compressed air system integrated with phase change materials for energy recovery in the heat exchanger. Three different phase change materials (PCMs) of polyethylene glycol, paraffin, and alkane mix are investigated for heat recovery purposes in the prototype where the paraffin option provides better results. The experimentally investigated system is a novel, hybrid‐type pneumatic vehicle (compressed air and electric in a hybridized manner) prototype which has been built and tested in the laboratory at the Ontario Tech. University in Oshawa. The experimental tests are performed for the hybrid air system integrated with a PCM heat exchanger and a supplementary battery power of 1.68 kW (with an actual turbine work rate of 1.43 kW). The total work output by four air and electric motors is 23.12 kW which is found to be sufficient for the powertrain of a small‐size city vehicle. The energy efficiency for the system is found to be 65.0% while the exergy efficiency is 57.0% for a common driving range of 131 km which is considered a kind of acceptable driving range for commercial pneumatic vehicles. Furthermore, this type of prototype is expected to offer a good marketing opportunity with a generated shaft work of 23.12 kW, respectively.
Key Opportunities to Replace, Reduce, and Refine Regulatory Fish Acute Toxicity Tests
Authors: Burden Natalie , Benstead Rachel , Benyon Kate , Clook Mark , Green Christopher , Handley John , Harper Neil , Maynard Samuel K. , Mead Chris , Pearson Audrey , Ryder Kathryn , Sheahan Dave , van Egmond Roger , Wheeler James R. , Hutchinson Thomas H.
Published: July 2020

Fish acute toxicity tests are conducted as part of regulatory hazard identification and risk-assessment packages for industrial chemicals and plant protection products. The aim of these tests is to determine the concentration which would be lethal to 50% of the animals treated. These tests are therefore associated with suffering in the test animals, and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development test guideline 203 (fish, acute toxicity) studies are the most widely conducted regulatory vertebrate ecotoxicology tests for prospective chemical safety assessment. There is great scope to apply the 3Rs principles—the reduction, refinement, and replacement of animals—in this area of testing. An expert ecotoxicology working group, led by the UK National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research, including members from government, academia, and industry, reviewed global fish acute test data requirements for the major chemical sectors. The present study highlights ongoing initiatives and provides an overview of the key challenges and opportunities associated with replacing, reducing, and/or refining fish acute toxicity studies—without compromising environmental protection. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2076–2089. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Chemicals Weaken Shoal Preference in the Rare Minnow Gobiocypris rarus
Authors: Qiu Ning , Xu Chunsen , Wang Xuzhen , Hou Miaomiao , Xia Zhijun , Wang Jianwei
Published: July 2020

Fish behavioral responses are sensitive to chemicals in the water. We tested rare minnow tested for their shoal preference, and the shoal (school) factors including nutritional status, body size, and shoal (school) size that can make their preference most stable were measured. Then shoal preference was measured again while fish and shoal were subjected to a concentration gradient of chemicals (cadmium ion [Cd2+], tricaine methanesulfonate [MS222], and p-chloroaniline). The results showed that single rare minnow preferred shoals over blank control tanks. In addition, this preference was most stable when the shoal was well fed and contained 20 individuals 2 cm long. Although there was no significant response after exposure to p-chloroaniline, the time spent from entering the tank to start moving decreased greatly at concentrations of Cd2+ >3 mg/L and MS222 >11 mg/L. The time the test fish spent close to the shoal significantly decreased at Cd2+ >3 mg/L, MS222 >11 mg/L, and p-chloroaniline >10 mg/L, and the frequency of boundary line crossing increased at the same concentrations. The behavioral parameters changed by 20, 5, and 8 min once the lowest-observed-effect concentrations of Cd2+, MS222, and p-chloroaniline, respectively, were added. Our study provides useful information on rare minnow shoal preference that may be used for a biological early warning system. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2018–2027. © 2020 SETAC

Abstract

Rare minnow prefer being close to the shoal, and this preference can be impacted by chemicals.
Optimized planting time and co‐growth duration reduce the yield difference between intercropped and sole soybean by enhancing soybean resilience toward size‐asymmetric competition
Authors: Ahmed Shoaib , Raza Muhammad Ali , Yuan Xiaoqin , Du Yongli , Iqbal Nasir , Chachar Qamaruddin , Soomro Aijaz Ahmed , Ibrahim Faisal , Hussain Sajad , Wang Xingcai , Liu Weiguo , Yang Wenyu
Published: July 2020

Selecting optimum planting time (PT) in maize–soybean relay intercropping system (MSRI) is important to obtain higher intercrop yields because planting time decides the co‐growth duration and competitive ability of intercrop species in MSRI. However, little is known on how planting time (co‐growth duration) changes the interspecific interaction resulting in a seed‐yield difference between intercropping and sole cropping system. Therefore, this field study was initiated to determine the effects of changing co‐growth duration on competitive interactions, growth, and yield of intercrop species under MSRI. The sole soybean and relay‐cropped soybean were planted on PT1 (15–20 May, 90 days of co‐growth duration in MSRI); PT2 (5–10 June, 70 days of co‐growth duration in MSRI); and PT3 (25–30 June, 50 days of co‐growth duration in MSRI) to generate different size‐asymmetric competition between component crops in MSRI. Results showed that sole soybean produced the mean highest (2.93 t/ha) seed yield under PT2, and the mean lowest (2.51 t/ha) seed yield under PT1. However, in MSRI, PT3 increased the soybean yield by 29.1% and 13.3% compared to PT1 and PT2, respectively. The PT3 also increased the maize yield by 7.4% and 2.9% than PT1 and PT2, respectively, and it reduced the yield differences of maize and soybean between relay intercropping and sole cropping systems. In MSRI, decreased co‐growth duration promoted the soybean plants to achieve the higher crop growth rate, and biomass accumulation, which ultimately improved the soybean resilience toward size‐asymmetric competition created by maize plants. Furthermore, as compared to PT1 and PT2, planting time PT3 significantly increased the competitive ratio (by 10.1% and 17.3%, respectively) of soybean plants. Overall, the PT3 achieved the average highest land equivalent ratio of 1.63, which is significantly higher than PT1 (by 12.3%) and PT2 (by 10.6%). In conclusion, this study implied that in MSRI, the determination of proper soybean planting time (co‐growth duration) is one of the most critical factors to reduce the competition between the intercrops and to obtain higher crop yields.
Effect of processing on the contents of amino acids and fatty acids, and glucose release from the starch of quinoa
Authors: Wu Ligen , Wang Anna , Shen Ruilin , Qu Lingbo
Published: July 2020

The effects of processing on the content of amino acids and fatty acids and the release of glucose from quinoa grains were evaluated in this paper. The processes included dehulling, boiling, extrusion, heating under pressure, and baking (infrared heating). The retention rate (AR) of essential amino acids and fatty acids of dehulled and boiled quinoa was 100%. The oil content of the extruded quinoa samples of two varieties was 47.71% and 39.75% lower than the corresponding raw quinoa samples. Baking and heating under pressure had different effects on the essential amino acid content, fatty acid content, and hydrolysis rate of quinoa starch. The results indicated the different cooking methods affect the essential amino acid content, fatty acid composition, release of glucose, and nutritional quality of quinoa, and moderate processing should be adopted to fully utilize the essential amino acids, fatty acids, and starch in quinoa.
Physicochemical characteristics and consumer acceptance of puddings fortified with Cudrania tricuspidata and Aronia melanocarpa extracts
Authors: Lee Jeong Ho , Choi Il Sook
Published: July 2020

The objectives of the study were to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of puddings fortified with 0.01% mandarin melon berry (Cudrania tricuspidata) and 0%–1.0% aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) extracts and to assess the effects of the fortification on consumer acceptance. The soluble solid content of pudding significantly increased as aronia concentration increased, whereas pH levels significantly decreased in a similar concentration‐dependent manner. The texture profiles of hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness increased significantly in the pudding fortified with 0.01% mandarin melon berry extract compared to those of the control pudding, and these profiles decreased with increasing aronia concentration. One hundred consumers evaluated ten puddings, both with and without acid treatments, in two sessions. Overall acceptance, taste acceptance, and texture acceptance showed no significant differences until 0.1% aronia concentration was reached. However, these differences decreased significantly in the pudding fortified with 0.5% and 1.0% aronia extract. The results demonstrate that the potential application of mandarin melon berry and aronia extract fortification in pudding products should be limited to 0.01% mandarin melon berry and 0.1% aronia concentrations.