bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictability of the mid‐summer surface air temperature over the Yangtze River valley in the National Centers for Environmental Prediction Climate Forecast System
Authors: Tang Shankai , Qiao Shaobo , Feng Taichen , Jia Zikang , Zang Naihui , Feng Guolin
Published: May 2020

By using the hindcast and forecast data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction Climate Forecast System version 2 (NCEP CFSv2) for the 1982–2018 period, we investigate the forecasting skills of the mid‐summer (July and August) surface air temperature (SAT) at interannual timescales in this study. Although CFSv2 predictions show a warm bias for the climatological mean SAT over the Yangtze River valley (25°–32°N, 105°–122°E), they show a consistent and great performance in predicting the interannual variability of the mid‐summer SAT over this region until 4 months in advance, where the linear correlation coefficient between the predicted and observed time series reaches +0.65, +0.51 and + 0.68 for 4, 2 and 0 months in advance, respectively. The CFSv2 predictions well simulate the linkage between the SAT anomalies over the Yangtze River valley and the anomalous atmospheric circulation aloft, including the circumglobal teleconnection and zonal extension of the Western Pacific Subtropical High. However, CFSv2 has trouble in simulating the associated vertical velocity, cloud cover and solar radiation anomalies, except for 0 months in advance. The persistent forecasting skills result from the accurate response of the circumglobal teleconnection and Western Pacific Subtropical High to the El Niño/Southern Oscillation and sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies over the mid‐latitude North Atlantic. Correspondingly, the forecasting skill, signal and signal‐to‐noise ratio are effectively improved in the years with strong mid‐summer SST anomalies over the tropical central‐eastern Pacific or mid‐latitude North Atlantic. These results are useful for understanding the predictability of the mid‐summer SAT over the Yangtze River valley.
A new advanced packaging system for extending the shelf life of refrigerated farmed fish fillets
Authors: Navarro‐Segura Laura , Ros‐Chumillas María , Martínez‐Hernández Ginés Benito , López‐Gómez Antonio
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

An innovative pilot‐plant packaging was developed and evaluated for applying oregano essential oil (OEO) vapours in conditions of high vacuum for exploring the antimicrobial effect of essential oil vapours applied immediately before packaging of fish fillets. Farmed sea bream (Sparus aurata) fresh fillets have been used as a model for validating this new technology. These fillets, as a refrigerated product under modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), have a relatively short shelf life (12–14 days) mainly due to the fast microbial growth. The effects of conventional OEO dippings [pretreatment dipping (0.1% of OEO) of whole fish (T1) and filleted sea bream (T2)] were compared with the OEO application in vapour phase (67 μL L‐1) under vacuum (5–10 hPa) immediately before MAP fillet packaging (T3).

RESULTS

T3/T2 samples showed the lowest microbial growth after 28 days at 4 °C, with loads up to 1/2.6 log units for Enterobacteria/lactic acid bacteria compared to untreated samples. The initial trimethylamine nitrogen (TMA‐N) content (2.6 mg kg−1) increased in T1 and T2/T3 samples by 9.6 and 6/7 units, respectively, after 28 days. Quality Index Method (QIM) better reflected the fish fillets shelf life than texture and colour measurements. The shelf life of T3/T2 samples was established in at least 28 days (4 °C), while the QIM threshold (6) was exceeded after 7/21 days in untreated/T1 fillets.

CONCLUSION

The fish shelf life was extended with vapour OEO treatment using this new technology, similarly to OEO dipping treatment, according to QIM, corroborated by the microbial quality and TMA‐N contents. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Almond by‐product composition impacts the rearing of black soldier fly larvae and quality of the spent substrate as a soil amendment
Authors: Palma Lydia , Fernández‐Bayo Jesus , Putri Ferisca , VanderGheynst Jean S
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Insect biomass is a sustainable alternative to traditional animal feeds, particularly when insects are produced on low‐value high‐volume agricultural by‐products. Seven samples of almond by‐product (hulls and shells) were obtained from processors in California and investigated for larvae production. Experiments were completed with and without larvae and spent substrate samples were assessed for their potential as soil amendments based on standard compost quality indicators.

RESULTS

On average, specific larvae growth and average larval harvest weight were 158% and 109% higher, respectively, when larvae were reared on Monterey and pollinator hulls compared to nonpareil hulls and mixed shells. Larvae methionine and cystine contents were highest when larvae were reared on Monterey hulls and mixed shells, respectively. Available phytonutrients in spent substrate were affected by feedstock sample and larvae rearing. Spent nonpareil substrate without larvae had the highest NH4‐N levels and spent pollinator substrate incubated without larvae had the highest PO4‐P levels. Spent mixed shell substrate had the lowest availability of phytonutrients.

CONCLUSION

The findings demonstrate that by‐product composition has a significant impact on larvae growth and the properties of the spent substrate, and that spent substrate from larvae rearing requires further stabilization before application as a soil amendment. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Midtrimester Ultrasound Predictors of Small‐for‐Gestational‐Age Neonates
Authors: Patel Vishal , Resnick Karen , Liang Cynthia , Smith Matthew , Haghpeykar Haleh Sangi , Mastrobattista Joan M. , Gandhi Manisha
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To determine whether a specific estimated fetal weight (EFW) or abdominal circumference (AC) measurement percentile at the 18‐to 24‐week ultrasound (US) examination is associated with a small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) neonate.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study was conducted including women with uncomplicated singleton gestations who delivered a term SGA neonate identified as having a birth weight (BW) below the 10th percentile on the Olsen growth curve and had an 18‐ to 24‐week US examination in our database. The study period was October 2011 to January 2018. A similar number of control charts were requested randomly over the same time with BW in the 10th to 90th percentiles, all which had an 18‐to 24‐week US examination in our database. After all neonates meeting BW criteria were identified, a chart review was performed to specifically evaluate biometric parameters from the US at 18 to 24 weeks to determine a potential correlation with the EFW percentile and AC percentile. Pregnancy, neonatal outcomes, and maternal demographic characteristics were collected.

Results

A total of 549 term neonates with a BW below the 10th percentile, and 593 control term neonates with BW in the of 10th to 90th percentiles were reviewed. Our analyses revealed that the AC and EFW percentiles were poor predictors of BW (<10th percentile; areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves, 0.68 and 0.69, respectively). A similar low ability of AC and EFW to predict BW below the 5th percentile was noted.

Conclusions

(1) No tipping point or cutoff for the EFW or AC percentile at the 18‐ to 24‐week US examination was identified to predict a term SGA neonate. (2) These data are helpful when counseling women in midgestation about specific parameters, their importance, and the potential need for follow up imaging.
Understanding the Final Disposition of Livers Declined After the Start of Procurement: A Nationwide Organ Procurement Organization Effort
Authors: Neidlinger Nikole A. , Brown Christopher , Wood Patrick , Traseger Jeff , Lebovitz Dan , Cauwels Roxane , Syed Shareef , Parekh Justin R. , Roll Garrett R.
Published: May 2020

Declining a liver offer during organ procurement likely increases the risk of discard, but the specifics around late reallocation remain obscure. This voluntarily submitted, prospectively collected data describe late declines and the ultimate disposition of 893 livers. Once a liver suffered an intraoperative decline, only 49% of recovered livers were transplanted. Livers declined ≥80 minutes prior to cross‐clamp were transplanted 80% of the time versus livers declined ≥80 minutes after cross‐clamp, which were transplanted 45% of the time. The final disposition of these livers was into a predetermined backup patient (51%) or required an out‐of‐sequence expedited allocation (42%). Prerecovery imaging and prerecovery biopsy did not influence the ability to reallocate a liver, and livers from donors after circulatory death are rarely successfully reallocated. In conclusion, this study begins to shed light on this seemingly common practice. A total of 85% of centers had an intraoperative decline, but 4% of centers accounted for 25% of the declines. Organ procurement organizations often enter expedited liver allocation, and instituting a cross‐clamp delay to allow for reallocation may influence the disposition of these liver grafts. Expedited allocation was more time consuming than allocation into a predetermined backup. Although a certain number of intraoperative declines probably suggests a healthy amount of donor selection aggressiveness at the time of the initial organ offer, the 47% risk of discard of livers declined intraoperatively suggests that United Network for Organ Sharing should consider systematically collecting data about intraoperative declines so we can learn more about this event that influences organ utilization.
Electroactive Silk Fibroin Films for Electrochemically Enhanced Delivery of Drugs
Authors: Mousavi Seyed T. , Harper Garry R. , Municoy Sofia , Ashton Mark D. , Townsend David , Alsharif Ghazi H. K. , Oikonomou Vasileios K. , Firlak Melike , Au‐Yong Sophie , Murdock Bethany E. , Akien Geoffrey R. , Halcovitch Nathan R. , Baldock Sara J. , Fazilati Mohamad , Kolosov Oleg V. , Robinson Benjamin J. , Desimone Martin F. , Hardy John G.
Published: May 2020

Biomaterials capable of controlling the delivery of drugs have the potential to treat a variety of conditions. Herein, the preparation of electrically conductive silk fibroin film‐based drug delivery devices is described. Casting aqueous solutions of Bombyx mori silk fibroin, followed by drying and annealing to impart β‐sheets to the silk fibroin, assure that the materials are stable for further processing in water; and the silk fibroin films are rendered conductive by generating an interpenetrating network of a copolymer of pyrrole and 3‐amino‐4‐hydroxybenzenesulfonic acid in the silk fibroin matrix (characterized by a variety of techniques including circular dichroism, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, Raman spectroscopy, resistance measurements, scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy). Fibroblasts adhere on the surface of the biomaterials (viability assessed using an (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and visualized using a confocal microscope), and a fluorescently labeled drug (Texas‐Red Gentamicin) can be loaded electrochemically and released (µg cm−2 quantities) in response to the application of an electrical stimulus.
Supramolecular Polymeric Radicals: Highly Promoted Formation and Stabilization of Naphthalenediimide Radical Anions
Authors: Yang Yuchong , Hu Hao , Guo Yuanyuan , Xia Andong , Xu Jiang‐Fei , Zhang Xi
Published: May 2020

The supramolecular polymeric radicals are developed to promote the generation efficiency and stability of naphthalenediimide (NDI) radical anions. To this end, a water‐soluble bifunctional monomer bearing two naphthalene‐viologen end groups and a NDI center is designed and synthesized. The supramolecular polymeric NDI radical anions are fabricated on the basis of host–guest complexation between the NDI‐containing bifunctional monomer and cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) and followed by the photoinduced electron transfer process under UV light irradiation. The electrostatic effect of CB[8] and the bulky and rigid structure of supramolecular polymer are combined to stabilize the excited state of NDIs and NDI radical anions, contributing to the high enhancement of the formation of NDI radical anions with excellent stability. It is found that the highest occupied molecular orbital energy and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy of NDI are also lowered by the formation of supramolecular polymer. In addition, the supramolecular polymeric NDI radical anions could be utilized as a supramolecular photoreducing agent to reduce cytochrome C with a higher efficiency. It is anticipated that other radicals can also be stabilized through this strategy, and this line of research may lead to the development of novel polymeric radical materials.
An Improved PO3G Model–Accounting for Cyclic Oligomers
Authors: Vo Anh‐Duong Dieu , Cui Wei Jessica , McAuley Kimberley B.
Published: May 2020

A comprehensive model is developed for polycondensation of 1,3‐propanediol in a batch reactor. The model accounts for formation, consumption, and evaporation of cyclic oligomers. Measurements of species and end‐group concentrations in the reactor and collected condensate are used to estimate 36 kinetic and mass‐transfer parameters. The model and parameter estimates provide good fits to cyclic‐oligomer data obtained using four different levels of super‐acid catalyst. Predictions from the model reveal that end‐biting reactions are important for formation of cyclic oligomers during early stages of each batch‐reactor run, whereas back‐biting reactions become important at longer reaction times. Simulation results reveal that ring‐opening polyaddition reactions contribute significantly to growth of polymer chains at long reaction times.
The prevalence and implications of single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes encoding the RNA polymerase of clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Krishna Aishwarya , Liu Bing , Peacock Sharon J. , Wigneshweraraj Sivaramesh
Published: May 2020

Central to the regulation of bacterial gene expression is the multisubunit enzyme RNA polymerase (RNAP), which is responsible for catalyzing transcription. As all adaptive processes are underpinned by changes in gene expression, the RNAP can be considered the major mediator of any adaptive response in the bacterial cell. In bacterial pathogens, theoretically, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes that encode subunits of the RNAP and associated factors could mediate adaptation and confer a selective advantage to cope with biotic and abiotic stresses. We investigated this possibility by undertaking a systematic survey of SNPs in genes encoding the RNAP and associated factors in a collection of 1,429 methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clinical isolates. We present evidence for the existence of several, hitherto unreported, nonsynonymous SNPs in genes encoding the RNAP and associated factors of MRSA ST22 clinical isolates and propose that the acquisition of amino acid substitutions in the RNAP could represent an adaptive strategy that contributes to the pathogenic success of MRSA.
Bacterial cellulose‐based biosensors
Authors: Torres Fernando G. , Troncoso Omar P. , Gonzales Karen N. , Sari Reka M. , Gea Saharman
Published: May 2020

One of the current challenges in biosensors is to develop a device with high biocatalytic activity, high sensitivity, high selectivity, low detection limit, fast response towards the analyte, eco‐friendly and also low‐cost price. Bacterial cellulose (BC), a pure mat of nanosized cellulose fibres, represents an alternative to the development of new materials for sensing applications. BC has a high surface area, high porosity and water absorbance, and it is a biocompatible and eco‐friendly polymer. In order to produce BC‐based materials for sensing devices, the original BC network can be preserved or destroyed. In both cases, the introduction of a second phase in order to improve or modify the properties of native BC is possible. Metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, carbon‐based materials, conductive polymers and enzymes are among the materials that have been combined with BC to prepare novel biosensor platforms. BC biosensors can be classified according to their output signal as resonant, optical or electrochemical biosensors. Some of the applications of BC‐based biosensors include pollutant biosensors, humidity, mass and gas biosensors, and biomedical biosensors to detect glucose and dopamine, among other sensing targets.
The pedigree analysis and prenatal diagnosis of Hong Kongαα Thalassemia and the sequence analysis of Hong Kongαα Allele
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Zheng Haiqing , Zeng Dan , Jiang Linbin , Yu Donglan , Yang Yuzhong , Feng Qiao , Xia Yang , Zhu Chunjiang
Published: May 2020

Background

Thalassemia is one of the most common monogenic hemolytic disorders in the world. Hong Kongαα (HKαα) thalassemia was initially found among the people of southern China. Because of the complexity of genetic changes in HKαα thalassemia, we lack a precise sequence analysis of the HKαα allele. Here we aim to detect the specific genotype and trace the law of inheritance of this rare genotype.

Methods

We recruited an unprecedented huge pedigree containing 11 individuals carrying the HKαα thalassemia gene and 4 nongenetic‐related patients suffering from HKαα from south China. Regular hematological analysis and routine genetic screening were performed on the pedigree and two‐round nested PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for HKαα thalassemia were performed on each individual. The first‐generation gene sequencing was performed on six individuals, including four nongenetic‐related patients.

Result

We found that five family members were positive for the HKαα allele. Patients Ⅱ‐2, Ⅲ‐1, and Ⅱ‐3 with only HKαα/‐‐SEA or HKαα/‐α4.2 presented with α‐thalassemia minor trait. Ⅰ‐1, the carrier of both HKαα/‐α3.7 and β41‐42/βN, showed a typical β‐thalassemia trait. Fetus with genotype HKαα/‐α4.2 alone was not likely to suffer from any deleterious effects after birth. The whole sequence of HKαα allele revealed that HKαα alleles in the six patients shared a high similarity, implying that all HKαα alleles are likely from the same ancestor. Moreover, pedigree and sequencing analyses demonstrated that the HKαα allele contained αααanti4.2 mutation, ‐α3.7 mutation, and a fragment from α‐hemoglobin gene; thus, the composition and formation of HKαα allele was revealed. Finally, the high similarity and composition of HKαα alleles implies that once HKαα formed, αααanti4.2 and ‐α3.7 mutations tended to be a fusion gene and quite impossible to be inherited separately.

Conclusion

The two‐round nested PCR is an effective method to detect HKαα allele. Besides, our study for the first time revealed the sequence of the HKαα allele, the evidence of the same ancestor with HKαα thalassemia and enriched the composition as well as the formation mechanism of HKαα allele, and immediately opened up novel potential diagnosis and prenatal counseling for HKαα thalassemia.
Children from nuclear families with bad parental relationship could develop tic symptoms
Authors: Zhu Pengcheng , Wu Min , Huang Pinxian , Zhao Xin , Ji Xiaoyi
Published: May 2020

Background

Studies have reported the impact of chronic childhood and adolescent tic disorder (TD) on families. However, few researches focused on the relationship between family environment and diagnosis of TD. We aim to assess the influence of couple relationship and family structure on the onset of TD.

Methods

A total of 660 parents of patients with TD (aged 6–12 years) and 641 parents of controls completed questionnaires. Couple relationship and family structure were selected by regression of binary logistic analysis as the risk factors. Couple relationship was divided into the harmonious, common, hostile, and divorced. Family structure included unconventional family, nuclear family, and unite family. Multivariate correspondence analysis was designed to explore relationships among categorical variables of couple relationship and family structure.

Results

There were significant associations between TD and couple relationship (Exp B = 1.310, p = .006, 95% CI = 1.080–1.590), family structure (Exp B = 0.668, p = .001, 95% CI = 0.526 ~ 0.847), gender (Exp B = 0.194, p < .001, 95% CI = 0.149–0.254), respectively. Obviously contradicted and common couple relationships were risk factors for TD compared with the harmonious and divorced. Children form unconventional family or nuclear family were prone to develop TD. Interestingly, divorced parents had the same protective effect as harmonious parents. The OR value could increase with the number and level of those risk factors.

Conclusions

In conclusion, children from nuclear families with bad parental relationship could be more likely to develop tic symptoms. The family intervention of children with TD should focus on family structure and parental relationship.
Medulloblastoma, macrocephaly, and a pathogenic germline PTEN variant: Cause or coincidence?
Authors: Tolonen Jussi‐Pekka , Hekkala Anne , Kuismin Outi , Tuominen Hannu , Suo‐Palosaari Maria , Tynninen Olli , Niinimäki Riitta
Published: May 2020

Background

Medulloblastomas (MBs) are a heterogeneous group of childhood brain tumors with four consensus subgroups, namely MBSHH, MBWNT, MBGroup 3, and MBGroup 4, representing the second most common type of pediatric brain cancer after high‐grade gliomas. They suffer from a high prevalence of genetic predisposition with up to 20% of MBSHH caused by germline mutations in only six genes. However, the spectrum of germline mutations in MBSHH remains incomplete.

Methods

Comprehensive Next‐Generation Sequencing panels of both tumor and patient blood samples were performed as molecular genetic characterization. The panels cover genes that are known to predispose to cancer.

Results

Here, we report on a patient with a pathogenic germline PTEN variant resulting in an early stop codon p.(Glu7Argfs*4) (ClinVar ID: 480383). The patient developed macrocephaly and MBSHH, but reached remission with current treatment protocols.

Conclusions

We propose that pathogenic PTEN variants may predispose to medulloblastoma, and show that remission was reached with current treatment protocols. The PTEN gene should be included in the genetic testing provided to patients who develop medulloblastoma at an early age. We recommend brain magnetic resonance imaging upon an unexpected acceleration of growth of head circumference for pediatric patients harboring pathogenic germline PTEN variants.
Multiple lump solutions of the (2+1)‐dimensional Konopelchenko–Dubrovsky equation
Authors: Ma Hongcai , Bai Yunxiang , Deng Aiping
Published: May 2020

In this paper, multiple lump solutions of the (2+1)‐dimensional Konopelchenko–Dubrovsky equation are obtained by means of the Hirota bilinear method. With the aid of positive quartic‐quadratic‐functions, we can get the 1‐lump solutions, 3‐lump solutions, and 6‐lump solutions. Via the density plots and three‐dimensional plots, the dynamic properties of multiple lump solutions are discussed by choosing the appropriate parameters. It is expected that our results are valuable for revealing the high‐dimensional dynamic phenomenon of the nonlinear evolution equations.
The Effect of the Food Matrix on the In Vitro Bio‐Accessibility and IgE Reactivity of Peanut Allergens
Authors: Rao Huan , Baricevic Ivona , Bernard Hervé , Smith Frances , Sayers Rebekah , Balasundaram Anuhradha , Costello Carol Ann , Padfield Philip , Semic‐Jusufagic Aida , Simpson Angela , Adel‐Patient Karine , Xue Wentong , Mills E. N. Clare
Published: May 2020

Scope

Factors such as food processing, the food matrix, and antacid medication may affect the bio‐accessibility of proteins in the gastrointestinal tract and hence their allergenic activity. However, at present they are poorly understood.

Methods and Results

Roasted peanut flour was incorporated into either a chocolate dessert or cookie matrix and bio‐accessibility were assessed using an in vitro digestion system comprising a model chew and simulated gastric and duodenal digestion. Protein digestion was monitored by SDS‐PAGE and immunoreactivity analyzed by immunoblotting and immunoassay. IgE reactivity was assessed by immunoassay using serum panels from peanut‐allergic subjects. Roasted peanut flour proteins proved highly digestible following gastro‐duodenal digestion even when incurred into a food matrix, with only low molecular weight polypeptides of Mr < 8 kDa remaining. When gastric digestion was performed at pH 6.5 (simulating the effect of antacid medication), peanut proteins are not digested; subsequent duodenal digestion is also limited. IgE reactivity of the major peanut allergens Ara h 1, Ara h 2, and Ara h 6, although reduced, was retained after oral‐gastro‐duodenal digestion irrespective of digestion conditions employed.

Conclusion

Peanut allergen bio‐accessibility is unaffected by the dessert or cookie matrices whilst high intra‐gastric pH conditions render allergens more resistant to digestion.
Critical state of granular materials at mesoscale: Transition from local to global
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Xiaoxiao , Yu Pengqiang
Published: May 2020

Critical state theory is widely accepted for understanding and interpreting the behavior of granular materials such as sandy soils. Recently, motivated by the development of a multiscale analysis method, this paper presents a discrete element investigation on the critical state behavior of granular materials on two scales level, that is, the macroscale and mesoscale. Loops are taken as the basic mesostructures, and the concept of mesoscale critical state is proposed on terms of the local stress and void ratio. Based on series of numerical simulations with varying densities and confining pressures, the characters of critical state lines (CSLs) for each loop type are analyzed. An analytical relationship of the transition from local to global is then obtained for critical state. Besides, the influence of interparticle friction coefficient on CSL is also discussed on both scales. The prominent observation is that each type of loops achieves its own critical state, from which a unique global CSL can be obtained. The CSLs of different loops exhibit same shapes but move upwards with the increasing order.
Ethical competence in a profession: Healthcare professionals' views
Authors: Hemberg Jessica , Hemberg Håkan
Published: May 2020

Aim

Ethical competence is a crucial component for enabling good quality care but there is insufficient qualitative research on healthcare professionals' views on ethical competence. The aim of this study was to investigate healthcare professionals' views on ethical competence in a student healthcare context.

Design

A qualitative design and a hermeneutical approach were used.

Methods

The material consists of texts from interviews with healthcare professionals (N = 10) in a student healthcare context. The method was inspired by content analysis.

Results

One main theme and four subthemes emerged. The main theme was as follows: safeguarding the vulnerability of the other. The subthemes were as follows: using sensitivity to establish a trustful relationship, acting in an objective and flexible manner, using a reflective process in decision‐making, and maintaining confidentiality and honesty. Future research should focus on investigating ethical competence from various perspectives in student health care, for example the student perspective or observational studies.
Public opinion about management strategies for a low‐profile species across multiple jurisdictions: Whitebark pine in the northern Rockies
Authors: Shanahan Elizabeth A. , Raile Eric D. , Naughton Helen T. , Wallner Michael P. , Houghton Kendall A.
Published: May 2020

As public land managers seek to adopt and implement conservation measures aimed at reversing or slowing the negative effects of climate change, they are looking to understand public opinion regarding different management strategies.

This study explores drivers of attitudes towards different management strategies (i.e. no management, protection and restoration) for a low‐profile but keystone tree species, the whitebark pinePinus albicaulis, in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Since the whitebark pine species has a range that traverses different federal land designations, we examine whether attitudes towards management strategies differ by jurisdiction (i.e. wilderness or federal lands more generally).

We conducted a web and mail survey of residents from Montana, Idaho and Wyoming, with 1,617 valid responses and a response rate of 16%.

We find that active management strategies have substantially higher levels of support than does no management, with relatively little differentiation across protection and restoration activities or across different land designations. We also find that support for management strategies is not influenced by values (political ideology) but is influenced by beliefs (about material vs. post‐material environmental orientation, global climate change and federal spending for public lands) and some measures of experience (e.g. knowledge of threats).

This study helps land managers understand that support for active management of the whitebark pine species is considerable and non‐partisan and that beliefs and experience with whitebark pine trees are important for support.

A freePlain Language Summarycan be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Highly bulky spherosilicates as functional additives for polyethylene processing—Influence on mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Brząkalski Dariusz , Przekop Robert E. , Dobrosielska Marta , Sztorch Bogna , Marciniak Piotr , Marciniec Bogdan
Published: May 2020

In this work, a series of cage siloxanes (spherosilicate [SS] type) was tested as functional additives for preparation of polyethylene (PE)‐based nanocomposites. For this purpose, the compounds were prepared by condensation and olefin hydrosilylation reactions. The effect of these products on properties of obtained nanocomposites was analyzed by means of mechanical, microscopic (scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive spectroscopy), crystallographic (X‐ray diffraction), thermal (differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry), rheological Melt flow rate (MFR), and thermomechanical (heat deflection temperature) analyses. The results were compared with similar reports on silsesquioxane‐ and SS‐reinforced PE systems. Effects of SS functional group structure on the behavior of the additive and properties of the composite system were discussed. Aspects of thermal decomposition of PE‐containing SS were studied and a probable mechanism of these polymer systems degradation was proposed.
Flexible strain sensor based on biomass‐derived material
Authors: Siyu Li , Chunxia Zhao , Yuntao Li , Jie Mao , Dong Xiang , Hui Li
Published: May 2020

In recent years, the strain sensors, which can be fixed on human skin to monitor movement, have attracted a considerable attention. In this study, the walnut shell powder was carbonized and mixed with polydimethylsiloxane, followed by encapsulation to prepare a highly flexible strain sensor. The obtained sensor was tested for the electrical and sensing properties. The experimental results revealed that the sensor is stable and reliable in the range of 0% to 40% strain response, while the effective working frequency of the sensor is in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 Hz. Moreover, the carbonized the walnut shell powder/PDMS prepolymer and its curing agent (PDMSCA) strain sensor exhibited an excellent fatigue resistance. No significant attenuation phenomenon was observed after 1000 cycles of stretching. The strain sensor was then attached to a volunteer throat, knee, elbow, and fingers joints. The corresponding human movements determined obvious sensing response and repeatability. This work proposes a new flexible strain sensor based on environmentally friendly materials, which is obtained by means of a facile preparation method. Hence, this work can open up new avenues for the development of novel and effective strain sensors using cost‐effective carbonized materials as filling materials.
Challenges facing drug utilization research in the Latin American region
Authors: Salas Maribel , Lopes Luciane C. , Godman Brian , Truter Ilse , Hartzema Abraham G. , Wettermark Bjorn , Fadare Joseph , Burger Johanita R. , Appenteng Kwame , Donneyong Macarius , Arias Ariel , Ankrah Daniel , Ogunleye Olayinka O. , Lubbe Martha , Horne Laura , Bernet Jorgelina , Gómez‐Galicia Diana L. , del Carmen Garcia Estrada Miriam , Oluka Margaret N. , Massele Amos , Alesso Luis , Herrera Comoglio Raquel , da Costa Lima Elisangela , Vilaseca Carmen , Bergman Ulf
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The International Society of Pharmacoepidemiology (ISPE) in collaboration with the Latin America Drug Utilization Research Group (LatAm DURG), the Medicines Utilization Research in Africa (MURIA) group, and the Uppsala Monitoring Center, is leading an initiative to understand challenges to drug utilization research (DUR) in the Latin American (LatAm) and African regions with the goal of communicating results and proposing solutions to these challenges in four scientific publications. The purpose of this first manuscript is to identify the main challenges associated with DUR in the LatAm region.

Methods

Drug utilization (DU) researchers in the LatAm region voluntarily participated in multiple discussions, contributed with local data and reviewed successive drafts and the final manuscript. Additionally, we carried out a literature review to identify the most relevant publications related to DU studies from the LatAm region.

Results

Multiple challenges were identified in the LatAm region for DUR including socioeconomic inequality, access to medical care, complexity of the healthcare system, limited investment in research and development, limited institutional and organization resources, language barriers, limited health education and literacy. Further, there is limited use of local DUR data by decision makers particularly in the identification of emerging health needs coming from social and demographic transitions.

Conclusions

The LatAm region faces challenges to DUR which are inherent in the healthcare and political systems, and potential solutions should target changes to the system.
The unmet needs of patients with sarcoma
Authors: Weaver Rhys , O'Connor Moira , Sobhi Salar , Carey Smith Richard , Halkett Georgia
Published: May 2020

Objective

Sarcoma is a rare cancer that imposes a significant burden on the lives of patients. Many survivors have long‐term disability as a result of treatment and the disease. Patients often experience functional issues, poorer mental health, reduced quality of life, and interpersonal issues. There is a need to explore the unmet needs of sarcoma patients as it is unclear how these issues are being addressed. The aim of this study was to explore the unmet needs of patients who have been diagnosed with sarcoma.

Methods

The participants were individuals previously diagnosed with a sarcoma (n = 22). Participants completed a semi‐structured interview about their unmet needs relating to sarcoma. The transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five overarching themes were identified: daily living, financial needs, lack of information, need for a community, and navigating the healthcare system. Participants reported a range of practical needs, including transport, limited understanding of their treatments, and financial issues. Participants also described a need to connect with people who had gone through similar experiences.

Conclusions

Sarcoma patients have fundamental needs that affect their capacity to live their life in the best possible way. Health services need to better facilitate sarcoma patients at each stage of their experience by providing individualized referrals, support, and coordination. Support interventions are needed to help patients adjust to sarcoma and to improve their quality of life as an outpatient. Connecting patients with sarcoma support groups may provide them with more relevant and intimate support.
Age‐stratified validation of the functional assessment of chronic illness therapy‐spiritual well‐being based on a large cohort of Danish cancer survivors
Authors: Kørup Alex K. , Wehberg Sonja , Hvidt Elisabeth A. , Hvidt Niels Christian , Fitchett George , Hansen Dorte Gilså
Published: May 2020

Objective

Previous research indicates that the FACIT‐Sp instrument is susceptible to bias when measuring spiritual well‐being in older patients. Our first focus was to evaluate the two‐factor vs the three‐factor model of the FACIT‐Sp and our second focus was to explore how these models behave for different age groups.

Methods

We used a large national cohort of Danish cancer patients (N = 3439) which included a significant number of patients aged at least 70 years (N = 1033). Item‐test correlations and factor analyses were conducted on complete cases (N = 2820). Additionally, a reliability analysis was performed using Cronbach's alpha and Guttman's lower‐bound estimate.

Results

Factor analysis revealed a loading pattern for the oldest age group (70+) showing items on peace and meaning loading into a single factor, as originally proposed in the two‐factor model. The loading estimates for the patients younger than 70 matched the three‐factor model. Furthermore, item‐test correlations changed as age increased. Based on Cronbach's alpha and Guttman's estimate of .83 and .89, respectively, total scores proved reliable. Items 4, 8, and 12 are discussed separately concerning their problematic influence on instrument validity in their current formulation.

Conclusion

Overall, the three‐factor model had a good fit; however, for the eldest patients a two‐factor solution proved even better. Interpretation of FACIT‐Sp subscale scores of older cancer patients must therefore be done with caution.
Inheritance of Bacillus thuringiensis Cry2Ab2 protein resistance in Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Yang Fei , Head Graham P , Price Paula A , Santiago González José C , Kerns David L
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), is a major target pest of pyramided Bt corn and cotton in the United States. Field‐evolved practical resistance to Cry1 and Cry2 proteins in H. zea has been documented in multiple locations in the United States. Understanding the genetic basis of Bt resistance is essential in developing insect resistance management (IRM) strategies for the sustainable use of the Bt crop technology. In this study, we characterized the genetic bases of Cry2Ab2 resistance in H. zea using diet‐overlay bioassays with two different forms of Cry2Ab2 protein.

RESULTS

Laboratory bioassays using a Cry2Ab2‐resistant (RR) strain, a susceptible (SS) strain, as well as cross and backcross strains, revealed that resistance to Cry2Ab2 was autosomally inherited and controlled by more than one locus. In diet bioassays, the dominance of Cry2Ab2 resistance in H. zea varied from incompletely recessive to incompletely dominant across all tested Cry2Ab2 concentrations of either Bt corn leaf powder or solubilized protein. On leaf tissue of TwinLink cotton (expressing Cry1Ab and Cry2Ae), Cry2Ab2 resistance in H. zea was completely dominant.

CONCLUSION

These results have significant implications for understanding the widespread field‐evolved resistance of H. zea against Cry1 and Cry2 proteins in Bt corn and cotton and should be useful in developing effective IRM strategies for H. zea. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
First case of glyphosate resistance in weedy sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Authors: Singh Vijay , Etheredge Luke , McGinty Josh , Morgan Gaylon , Bagavathiannan Muthukumar
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Weedy sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is a troublesome weed in row‐crop production fields in South Texas. Populations with suspected resistance to glyphosate were evaluated with 1X and 4X rates (X = 868 g ae ha−1) of the herbicide, followed by a dose–response assay of the most resistant population. Molecular studies were conducted to determine if target‐site mechanisms were responsible for resistance in these populations. Additionally, field experiments were conducted at two locations (Somerville and Granger, TX) to evaluate the effectiveness of different tank‐mix combinations in controlling naturally infesting glyphosate‐resistant (GR) weedy sunflower populations in GR corn.

RESULTS

In a study conducted in the growth chamber, seven of the 11 tested populations survived up to the 4X rate of glyphosate. The most‐resistant population (TX15‐11) was 29‐fold more resistant to glyphosate, compared to the susceptible standard. In resistant populations, 5–21 more copies of the EPSPS gene were observed compared to the susceptible standard. In the field studies, tank‐mix applications of glyphosate + halosulfuron‐methyl, glyphosate + prosulfuron, glyphosate + a premix of halosulfuron‐methyl and dicamba or glyphosate + a premix of diflufenzopyr and dicamba effectively controlled GR weedy sunflower populations.

CONCLUSION

Glyphosate‐resistance was observed in 81% of the putative resistant weedy sunflower populations tested in this study. Resistance in these populations was conferred primarily by amplification of the EPSPS gene. Effective control of GR weedy sunflower can be achieved by tank‐mixes tested in the current study, which provides acceptable levels of crop safety. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of the potential of functionalised calcium carbonate as carrier for essential oils with regard to antimicrobial packaging applications
Authors: Rüegg Nadine , Beck Barbara Maria , Monnard Fabien Wilhelm , Hilty Florentine Marianne , Wicht Aurore , Schoelkopf Joachim , Yildirim Selçuk
Published: May 2020

Functionalised calcium carbonates (FCCs) are inorganic mineral‐based particles with a high porosity and extended surface area consisting of hydroxyapatite and calcium carbonate crystal structures. Therefore, FCCs have a high potential to be used as a carrier for active substances such as essential oils (EOs), which are well known for their antimicrobial activities, and control their release in antimicrobial packaging applications. In this study, different EOs were loaded on FCCs, and their antimicrobial activities were studied against Listeria innocua in in vitro tests and in food tests using sliced cooked chicken breast. FCCs loaded with thyme or oregano EO (10 wt%) showed the highest reduction in microbial load in in vitro tests at 37°C (≥8.6 log cfu/filter) as well as at 7°C after 6 days (≥7.0 log cfu/filter for thyme EO and 6.5 log cfu/filter for oregano EO). However, in food tests, FCC loaded with either EO did not show any significant antimicrobial activity. FCCs loaded with cinnamon or rosemary EO (10 wt%) did not show any significant antimicrobial activity in in vitro tests. On the other hand, they showed a significant reduction in microbial load (1.7 log cfu/g for cinnamon and 2 log cfu/g for rosemary) in food tests. Differences in antimicrobial activities in in vitro and food tests are probably due to the interaction of the components of the EOs and the components of the food such as fat and proteins.
A randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical study of hair regeneration using adipose-derived stem cell constituent extract in androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Tak Young Jin , Lee Sang Yeoup , Cho A Ra , Kim Young Sil
Published: May 2020

Accumulating evidence suggests that adipose-derived stem cell constituent extract (ADSC-CE) helps hair regrowth in patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, the effects of ADSC-CE have not been demonstrated in a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical trial. In this randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical trial, 38 patients (29 men) with AGA were assigned to an intervention group (IG), with twice-daily self-application of the ADSC-CE topical solution over the scalp with fingers, or to a control group (CG). Changes in hair count and thickness at 16 weeks from the baseline were evaluated using a phototrichogram. Overall, 34 (89%) patients (mean age, 45.3 years) completed the study. The phototrichogram at week 8 showed more increase in hair count in the IG than in the CG, and intergroup differences in the change of hair count remained significant until week 16 with overall changes of 28.1% vs 7.1%, respectively. Similarly, a significant improvement in hair diameter was observed in the IG (14.2%) after 16 weeks when compared with hair diameter in the CG (6.3%). Our findings suggest that the application of the ADSC-CE topical solution has enormous potential as an alternative therapeutic strategy for hair regrowth in patients with AGA, by increasing both hair density and thickness while maintaining adequate treatment safety.

Significance statement This study suggests the application of adipose-derived stem cell constituent extract topical solution has the potential as an alternative therapeutic strategy for hair regrowth in patients with androgenetic alopecia by increasing both hair density and thickness while maintaining adequate treatment safety.
Electricity Enhancement by MFCs from Food Waste Ethanol Fermentation Recycle Stillage Effect of Dilution Ratio and Addition of Tween 80
Authors: Gao Ming , Li Huiyu , Ma Hongzhi , Peng Cheng , Wu Wenyu , Yu Ziqiang , Wang Qunhui
Published: May 2020

The ethanol fermentation stillage of food waste can be used as the substrate of microbial fuel cells (MFCs), but its complexity affected the electricity production. In this study, the effect of the dilution ratio and the addition of Tween 80 on MFCs were carried out. The results showed that the maximum output power based on the cathode area and volume gradually enhanced with the increase of the dilution ratio, and the maximum output power of 612 mW m−2 and 6.4 W m−3 reached with the dilution of 200 times. The removal rate of organic acids by MFCs remained stable between 58 % and 62 %. The maximum output power of MFCs with three kinds of Tween 80 concentrations, 5 mg L−1, 20 mg L−1 and 80 mg L−1, increased by 2.1 times, 3.1 times and 1.4 times respectively. The addition of Tween 80 can significantly reduce the biotoxicity. With 20 mg L−1 Tween 80 added, the toxicity removal rate reached highest of 95.1 %.
Copper‐Catalyzed sp3‐Carbon Radical/Halogen Radical Cross Coupling: Selective Halogenation of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Lv Shuai‐Shuai , Yan Xu‐Ping , Li Cheng‐Kun , Zhou Shao‐Fang , Shoberu Adedamola , Zou Jian‐Ping
Published: May 2020

A new copper‐catalyzed sp3‐carbon radical/halogen radical cross‐coupling strategy for the formation of C(sp3)‐X bond is described. This provides a general method for synthesis of α‐halogenated and α,α‐dihalogenated‐1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds using sodium halides as halogen source under mild conditions.