bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted: A new porous Co(II)‐coordination polymer for the chemical fixation of CO2 and treatment effect against tuberculosis by reducing the pckA expression in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Yan Li‐Ping , Sun Qin , Liu Zhi‐Bin , Wu Min , Ge Yan‐Ping , Zhang Qing
Published: July 2020

Using the mixed‐ligand method, a novel coordination polymer containing Co(II) of [Co(ditb)(tdc)]n·5nH2O (1) was prepared by reacting rigid 2,5‐thiophenedicarboxylic acid with flexible 1,4‐di(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)butane using the slow evaporation method. Active samples of 1 (1a for short) showed good stability and the ability to capture CO2. It can be used as a potential heterogeneous catalyst for chemical immobilization of epoxide and CO2 to form cyclic carbonates. In addition, catalyst 1a retained its original structure after four times of reuse. Its biological properties were assessed against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.TB) both in vivo and in vitro. First, the bactericidal ability of the compound against M.TB was measured by a sterilization curve. Then, the expression of pckA gene related to M.TB survival was detected using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. For the in vivo study, the colony‐forming unit determination was performed for evaluating the anti‐bacterial effect of the compound, and the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used for the inflammatory cytokine measurement in vivo. Through molecular docking simulations, all three types of polar atoms on the complex were confirmed to have chances of interacting with the protein.
On interdisciplinary collaboration and mentoring in Birth Defects Research
Authors: Cordero José F.
Published: July 2020

There are many research societies in the world but none like the Teratology Society, now known as, the Society of Birth Defects Research and Prevention. Our Society has thrived in the last 60 years because of its inclusiveness in the diversity of disciplines of our membership, the outstanding interprofessional collaboration, and successful mentorship. This brief commentary offers some anecdotes about our diversity, interprofessional research, and mentoring.
Ermittlung eines Designraums zur Mechatronisierung von Befestigungsmitteln am Beispiel von Verbundankern
Authors: Horn Sebastian , Zimprich Sebastian , Gwosch Thomas , Matthiesen Sven
Published: July 2020

Mit steigender Digitalisierung im Bauwesen werden zunehmend Sensordaten für die Zustandsanalyse von Bauwerken notwendig. Als lasteinleitende Bauteile eignen sich insbesondere Befestigungsmittel zur Integration sensorischer Elemente. Jedoch ist bisher nicht bekannt, wie sich sensorische Elemente auf die Primärfunktion „Haltekraft“ auswirken. Dieser Beitrag untersucht die Effekte zusätzlich eingebrachter Elemente zur Ermittlung möglicher Designräume am Beispiel eines Verbundankers. Hierzu wurden an zuvor bestimmten Wirkflächen und Begrenzungsflächen Elemente in Verbundanker integriert und in einem vollfaktoriellen 33‐Versuchsplan experimentell untersucht. Die Effekte der Faktorstufen gegenüber der Primärfunktion wurden statistisch interpretiert. Es kann gezeigt werden, dass im System Verbundanker Designraum für den Einsatz sensorischer Elemente vorhanden ist, der genutzt werden kann, um sensorische Verbundanker zu entwickeln, ohne die Verbundspannung signifikant zu beeinflussen.
Einfluss von Querbewehrung auf das Rissverhalten von Stahlbetonplatten unter Gebrauchslast
Authors: Berger Johannes , Keuser Manfred
Published: July 2020

Im Rahmen eines Forschungsvorhabens an der Universität der Bundeswehr München wurde in den vergangenen Jahren in experimentellen und theoretischen Studien der Einfluss von Bewehrung auf das Riss‐ und Verformungsverhalten von Stahlbetonplatten im Grenzzustand der Gebrauchstauglichkeit (GZG) untersucht. Neben experimentellen Untersuchungen zum Einfluss von senkrecht zur Zugspannungsrichtung angeordneten Bewehrungsstäben auf die Rissbildung in Stahlbetonplattenstreifen wurden auch Versuche an Stahlbetonplatten mit geneigten Bewehrungsnetzen unter ein‐ und zweiaxialer Biegebeanspruchung durchgeführt. Die Auswertung der Versuchsergebnisse zeigte insgesamt, dass unter speziellen Randbedingungen die senkrecht, aber auch geneigt angeordnete Bewehrung einen signifikanten Einfluss auf das Rissverhalten in Stahlbetonplatten haben kann. Auf Grundlage mechanischer Vorüberlegungen, experimenteller Untersuchungen sowie zusätzlicher numerischer Parameterstudien wurde, basierend auf dem klassischen Rissmodell, ein vereinfachter Ansatz zur Berechnung des Rissabstands und der Rissbreite in Stahlbetonplatten unter Berücksichtigung des Einflusses beliebig orientierter Querbewehrung entwickelt.

Der nachfolgende Beitrag stellt ausgewählte Inhalte der durchgeführten Untersuchungen vor und fasst die wesentlichen Ergebnisse der Forschungsarbeit zusammen. Der Fokus liegt hierbei auf den experimentellen Untersuchungen an Stahlbetonplatten unter einaxialer Biegebeanspruchung.
Einfluss unterschiedlicher Lastaufbringungsverfahren auf die Verschiebungsprognose von Verbunddübeln
Authors: Stierschneider Elisabeth , Zeman Oliver , Bergmeister Konrad
Published: July 2020

In diesem Beitrag wird der Einfluss von drei unterschiedlichen Lastaufbringungsarten im Rahmen von Dauerlastversuchen an Verbunddübeln untersucht. Diese unterscheiden sich in der Gleichmäßigkeit der aufgebrachten Dauerlast und ihrer Regelung über die Versuchszeit, sind aber alle für die Durchführung zulässig. Da die aufgebrachte Dauerlast in direktem Zusammenhang mit den gemessenen Verschiebungen steht, welche auf eine Nutzungsdauer von derzeit üblicherweise 50 Jahren extrapoliert werden, soll der Einfluss unterschiedlicher Lastaufbringungsarten auf die Verschiebungsprognose untersucht werden. Da gegenwärtig eine verlängerte Nutzungsdauer immer mehr an Bedeutung gewinnt, sind mögliche Einflüsse im Zuge der Versuchsdurchführung auf die Extrapolation von Relevanz. Die so gewonnenen Erkenntnisse in Bezug auf die Art der Lastaufbringung und deren Einfluss auf die Prognose können unter Umständen für die Erarbeitung von Prüfrichtlinien für eine verlängerte Nutzungsdauer herangezogen werden.
SARS-Cov-2 in peritoneal fluid: an important finding in the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Barberis A , Rutigliani M , Belli F , Ciferri E , Mori M , Filauro M
Published: July 2020

Fundings

no funding to declare regarding this study.
Environmental attitudes of polluting SMEs: Qualitative insights from a low‐income developing country
Authors: Hasan Md Nazmul , Anastasiadis Stephanos , Spence Laura J. , Uba Chijioke D.
Published: July 2020

In this paper we explore the environmental attitudes of polluting SMEs (small‐scale firms that produce or deal with environmentally sensitive goods) from the perspective of owner/managers in a low‐income developing country context. Utilising extensive qualitative data from SMEs operating in two of the most polluting industries in Bangladesh—leather tanning and textile dyeing, we provide a qualitative understanding of how the owner/managers formulate, interpret, and judge the environmental issues related to their business operations. Our analysis indicates that the owner/managers hold four types of distinct environmental attitudes towards the environmental issues relevant to their businesses: conscious, instrumental, resentful, and complacent. We differentiate these attitudes based on three salient dimensions: owner/managers' general interest in environmental issues, their commitment to act in environmentally responsible ways, and key stakeholder focus. Our study contributes to the small business literature by identifying complexity in the owner/managers' responses to relevant environmental issues and offering a nuanced understanding of the environmental attitudes of polluting SMEs in a low‐income developing country context. In addition, our findings inform policies designed with the practical needs of small‐scale polluting firms in mind.
T‐cell receptor repertoire analysis for the diagnosis and treatment of solid tumor: A methodology and clinical applications
Authors: Li Na , Yuan Jiani , Tian Wenjia , Meng Lin , Liu Yongyu
Published: July 2020

T cells, which are involved in adaptive immunity, are essential in the elimination of tumor cells. Mature T cells can specifically recognize the antigen on the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule through T‐cell receptors (TCR). The unique rearrangement mechanisms during T‐cell maturation provide great diversity to TCR, ensuring specific recognition between T cells and antigens. Thus, TCR repertoire analysis occupied an important position in T‐cell regarding research. Nowadays, next‐generation sequencing technology allows the simultaneous detection of TCR sequences with high throughput, and several evaluation indexes facilitate the measure of TCR repertoire. Based on this new methodology, discoveries are made across a range of tumor types. Results have shed light on the TCR repertoire differences between cancer patients and healthy control as well as between individual's lesions, paracancer, and peripheral blood samples. The potential of TCR repertoire as a biomarker for immunotherapy efficacy is also widely studied as TCR repertoire represents different baseline within individuals and shows dynamic change during treatment. Accurate delineation of the T‐cell repertoire can further the understanding of the immune system response to tumorigenesis. Still, existing researches are insufficient to clarify the specific clinical implications of TCR dynamic change and the definite role of TCR repertoire diversity during the treatment process. The results of some studies are even contrary. In this article, we reviewed TCR rearrangement mechanisms and analysis methods. Recent progress of TCR sequencing technology in tumor research is also discussed. In conclusion, intensive studies over an extended range of cancer types and a broadened group of subjects should be carried to solidify the TCR repertoire's position as an immunotherapy biomarker.
Tryptophan Synthase: Biocatalyst Extraordinaire
Authors: Watkins‐Dulaney Ella , Straathof Sabine , Arnold Frances
Published: July 2020

Tryptophan synthase (TrpS) has emerged as a paragon of noncanonical amino acid (ncAA) synthesis and is an ideal biocatalyst for synthetic and biological applications. TrpS catalyzes an irreversible, C−C bond‐forming reaction between indole and serine to make l‐tryptophan; native TrpS complexes possess fairly broad specificity for indole analogues, but are difficult to engineer to extend substrate scope or to confer other useful properties due to allosteric constraints and their heterodimeric structure. Directed evolution freed the catalytically relevant TrpS β‐subunit (TrpB) from allosteric regulation by its TrpA partner and has enabled dramatic expansion of the enzyme's substrate scope. This review examines the long and storied career of TrpS from the perspective of its application in ncAA synthesis and biocatalytic cascades.
Sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Ojha Rajeev , Nepal Gaurav , Jamarkattel Sujan , Prasad Gajurel Bikram , Karn Ragesh , Rajbhandari Reema
Published: July 2020

Creutzfeldt‐Jakob Disease is a rare neurodegenerative disease and earlier diagnosis is usually difficult. Combining clinical features with electroencephalogram, laboratory parameters, and neuroimaging findings will facilitate the diagnosis.
Efficient Removal of Ammonia by Hierarchically Porous Carbons from a CO2 Capture Process
Authors: Choi Jeong Ho , Jang Jong Tak , Yun Soung Hee , Jo Won Hee , Lim Seong Seon , Park Joung Ho , Chun Il Soo , Lee Jung-Hyun , Yoon Yeo Il
Published: July 2020

The amine‐based post‐combustion carbon capture process is one of the most efficient methods for treating large‐scale CO2, but it produces hazardous products due to chemical transition and degradation of the absorbents. In this study, carbon‐based materials were used as adsorbents for the removal of NH3, and their adsorption capacities, adsorption rates, and stabilities were examined by comparing commercial activated carbon (AC) with hierarchically porous carbon (HPC). HPC‐Step4 possessed a higher number of total acid sites, resulting in higher NH3 adsorption compared to AC. Despite the similar porosity, HPC‐Step4 exhibited a higher adsorption rate constant and the improved kinetics was attributed to its increased portion of mesopores, enhancing the diffusion rate of the adsorbate. Furthermore, HPC‐Step4 exhibited better reaction stability than AC.
Colorectal cancer screening: The costs and benefits of getting to 80% in every community
Authors: Green Beverly B. , Meenan Richard T.
Published: July 2020

Mailed fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) kits for colorectal cancer screening at home can contribute to reaching national goals of 80% colorectal cancer screening in communities. Policies that support cost‐effective colorectal cancer screening programs would decrease colorectal cancer disparities.
Effects of ABCB1, UGT1A1, and UGT1A9 Genetic Polymorphisms on the Pharmacokinetics of Sitafloxacin Granules in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Sun Lu‐Ning , Sun Guo‐Xian , Yang Yu‐Qing , Shen Ye , Huang Feng‐Ru , Xie Li‐Jun , Cheng Juan , Zhang Hong‐Wen , Zhang Xue‐Hui , Liu Yun , Wang Yong‐Qing
Published: July 2020

Sitafloxacin, a new fluoroquinolone, has strong antibacterial activity. We evaluated the effects of sitafloxacin granules in single‐dose and multidose cohorts and the effects of ABCB1, UGT1A1, and UGT1A9 genetic polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of sitafloxacin in healthy subjects. The single‐dose study included 3 fasted cohorts receiving 50, 100, and 200 mg of sitafloxacin granules and 1 cohort receiving 50 mg of sitafloxacin granules with a high‐fat meal. The multidose study included 1 cohort receiving 100 mg of sitafloxacin granules once daily for 5 days. PK parameters were calculated using noncompartmental parameters based on concentration‐time data. The genotypes for ABCB1, UGT1A1, and UGT1A9 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were determined using Sanger sequencing. Subsequently, the association between sitafloxacin PK parameters and target single‐nucleotide polymorphisms was analyzed. Sitafloxacin granules were well tolerated up to 200 and 100 mg in the single‐dose and multidose studies, respectively. Sitafloxacin AUC and Cmax increased linearly within the detection range, and a steady state was reached within 3 days after the administration of multiple oral doses. Our findings showed that Cmax was lower in the ABCB1 (rs1045642) mutation group, whereas t1/2 was longer in the UGT1A1 (rs2741049) and UGT1A9 (rs3832043) mutation groups. In conclusion, sitafloxacin granules were safe at single doses and multiple doses up to 200 and 100 mg/day, respectively, with a linear plasma PK profile. However, ABCB1 (rs1045642), UGT1A1 (rs2741049), and UGT1A9 (rs3832043) genetic polymorphisms are likely to influence the Cmax or t1/2 and thereby merit further clinical evaluation.
Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Approaches for Immuno‐Oncology: Adding Virtual Patients to the Development Paradigm
Authors: Chelliah Vijayalakshmi , Lazarou Georgia , Bhatnagar Sumit , Gibbs John P. , Nijsen Marjoleen , Ray Avijit , Stoll Brian , Thompson R. Adam , Gulati Abhishek , Soukharev Serguei , Yamada Akihiro , Weddell Jared , Sayama Hiroyuki , Oishi Masayo , Wittemer‐Rump Sabine , Patel Chirag , Niederalt Christoph , Burghaus Rolf , Scheerans Christian , Lippert Jörg , Kabilan Senthil , Kareva Irina , Belousova Natalya , Rolfe Alex , Zutshi Anup , Chenel Marylore , Venezia Filippo , Fouliard Sylvain , Oberwittler Heike , Scholer‐Dahirel Alix , Lelievre Helene , Bottino Dean , Collins Sabrina C. , Nguyen Hoa Q. , Wang Haiqing , Yoneyama Tomoki , Zhu Andy Z.X. , van der Graaf Piet H. , Kierzek Andrzej M.
Published: July 2020

Drug development in oncology commonly exploits the tools of molecular biology to gain therapeutic benefit through reprograming of cellular responses. In immuno‐oncology (IO) the aim is to direct the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. After remarkable successes of antibodies targeting PD1/PD‐L1 and CTLA4 receptors in targeted patient populations, the focus of further development has shifted toward combination therapies. However, the current drug‐development approach of exploiting a vast number of possible combination targets and dosing regimens has proven to be challenging and is arguably inefficient. In particular, the unprecedented number of clinical trials testing different combinations may no longer be sustainable by the population of available patients. Further development in IO requires a step change in selection and validation of candidate therapies to decrease development attrition rate and limit the number of clinical trials. Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) proposes to tackle this challenge through mechanistic modeling and simulation. Compounds’ pharmacokinetics, target binding, and mechanisms of action as well as existing knowledge on the underlying tumor and immune system biology are described by quantitative, dynamic models aiming to predict clinical results for novel combinations. Here, we review the current QSP approaches, the legacy of mathematical models available to quantitative clinical pharmacologists describing interaction between tumor and immune system, and the recent development of IO QSP platform models. We argue that QSP and virtual patients can be integrated as a new tool in existing IO drug development approaches to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the search for novel combination therapies.
6 min walk test is a strong independent predictor of death in outpatients with heart failure
Authors: Grundtvig Morten , Eriksen‐Volnes Torfinn , Ørn Stein , Slind Eva Kjøl , Gullestad Lars
Published: July 2020

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic value of the 6 min walk test (6MWT) in a large cohort of outpatients with heart failure.

Methods and results

A total of 5519 outpatients with heart failure from the National Norwegian Heart Failure Registry (NNHFR), which is part of the Norwegian Cardiovascular Disease Registry, were included in this analysis. The NNHFR recommended the use of the 6MWT for prognostic assessment of all patients included in the registry. Patients were categorized according to the 6MWT: Category 1 walked the longest and Category 3 the shortest. During a median (25th–75th percentiles) follow‐up of 24 (14–36), 12.9% of the patients died. Patients in Category 3 had the overall worst outcome than had patients in Categories 1 and 2. 6MWT used as a continuous variable was a highly significant independent predictor for mortality in a multivariate Cox regression model adjusted for 16 other variables with a hazard ratio of 0.979 [(95% confidence interval 0.972–0.986), P < 0.001]. The four most important predictors for mortality were active cancer in the last 5 years, age, 6MWT, and natriuretic peptides (all P < 0.001).

Conclusions

6MWT is a strong independent predictor of mortality in outpatients with HF. The findings support the use of the 6MWT in the prognostic assessment of patients with HF irrespective of HF aetiology.
Consider technology that helps promote social distancing
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: July 2020

How can campuses reopen safely in the fall? That's a big question officials at many institutions are trying to answer. One key is to enable and encourage social distancing on campus. Officials at Apogee and Degree Analytics have partnered to create a solution that enables campus officials to track where people are gathering. Heat map displays show how many people are in an area.
Offer flexible admissions policies to reduce barriers to attending your institution
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: July 2020

Plans change — especially in a world where COVID‐19 changed life across the globe in a matter of days. That's why Maureen Woods, who has been in admissions and enrollment management for almost 20 years, feels strongly about offering flexibility in admissions.
Statistical optimization of the extraction of citric acid from the solid fermented substrate of empty fruit bunches
Authors: Bari Md Niamul , Alam Md Zahangir , Mamun Abdullah‐Al , Khatun Hanufa
Published: July 2020

Optimization of the process parameters for the extraction of a product from a solid substrate after bioconversion is essentially important to maximize the yield. The extraction of citric acid from the solid substrate of oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) after bioconversion was initially optimized by following single factor variation. Following this, the extraction parameters were optimized statistically with the help of experimental design by Box‐Behnken Design under Response Surface Methodology through the development of a second order regression model. The statistical analysis of the result showed that in the range studied all three factors, that is, shaking speed, solvent ratio, and shaking time, had a significant influence on the citric acid extraction. The highest amount of citric acid extracted was 337.34 ± 1.1 g/kg‐dry EFB, for which the extraction parameters were a shaking speed of 125 rpm, a shaking time of 58.5 minutes, and a solvent ratio of 10.70. The coefficient of determination observed (R2) from the analysis was .9921, indicating a satisfactory fit of the model with the response. The analysis showed that all the terms of the model were highly significant with the P‐value <.05.
Mercury Uptake Affects the Development of Larus fuscus Chicks
Authors: Santos Cátia S.A. , Sotillo Alejandro , Gupta Trisha , Delgado Sergio , Müller Wendt , Stienen Eric W.M. , de Neve Liesbeth , Lens Luc , Soares Amadeu M.V.M. , Monteiro Marta S. , Loureiro Susana
Published: July 2020

Current emission and mobilization rates of mercury (Hg) in the environment pose extensive threats to both wildlife and human health. Assessing the exposure risk and effects of Hg contamination in model species such as seabirds is essential to understand Hg risks at the population and ecosystem levels. The lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus), a generalist seabird species, is an excellent model species because it forages in both marine and terrestrial habitats, which in turn differ in their Hg exposure risk. To identify possible deleterious effects of Hg exposure on developing L. fuscus chicks, a dietary experiment was carried out and chicks were provided a marine, terrestrial, or mixed diet. The effects of embryonic and dietary Hg exposure on chick body condition and physiological state were assessed at different developmental stages until fledging age (30 d). Overall physiological condition was lower in chicks fed a predominantly marine diet, which coincided with higher Hg loads in blood and primary feathers. However, no effect of dietary uptake of Hg was observed on body condition or in terms of genotoxic damage. Body condition and genotoxic damage correlated instead with Hg exposure during embryonic development, which seems to indicate that embryonic exposure to Hg may result in carry-over effects on later chick development. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2008–2017. © 2020 SETAC

Abstract

Effects of mercury (Hg) transfer via maternal (egg) and dietary (chick) input on development and condition of lesser black-backed gull chicks. SMI = scaled mass index.
Blockchain for precision irrigation: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Bodkhe Umesh , Tanwar Sudeep , Bhattacharya Pronaya , Kumar Neeraj
Published: July 2020

In modern cities, smart irrigation systems are designed to operate via Internet of things (IoT) based sensor units having precise measurements of irrigation requirements such as amount of water, crop temperature, and humidity to build a robust supply chain ecosystem. The usage of sensors and networking units enable the optimal usage of irrigation resources, and is termed as precision irrigation (PI). Thus, PI leverage an efficient solution to handle the scarcity of essential resources such as food, water, land units, and crop yields. Thus, farmers gets better returns in the market due to high production. However, in PI, the exchange of crop readings from sensor units to actuators are processed through open channels, that is, Internet. Thus, it open the doors for malicious intruders to deploy network and sensor‐based attacks on PI‐sensors, to drain the available resources, and battery power of sensor nodes in the network. This reduces the optimum and precise utilization of irrigation resources, low‐yield crops and damaged crops in supply chain systems. This leads to dissatisfaction among agriculture stakeholders such as quality control units, logistics, suppliers, and customers. Motivated from the above discussions, the survey presents the advantages of integrating blockchain (BC) with PI to handle issues pertaining to security, trust, and transactional payments among agriculture stakeholders. The survey is directed to achieve threefold objective‐ attack models and countermeasures in PI systems, integration of BC in PI to mitigate attack models, and research challenges in deploying BC in PI. To address the first objective, the survey proposes an in‐depth comparative analysis of traditional irrigation systems with PI, with discussions on attack models. To address the second objective, the survey proposes an integration model of BC with PI to secure IoT sensors, and maintain trust and transparency among stakeholders. Finally, the survey addresses the open research challenges of deploying BC in PI‐based irrigation systems, and presents a case‐study of AgriChain as an industry ready‐solution that envisions BC with PI ecosystem. Thus, the proposed survey acts as a roadmap for agriculture industry stakeholders, researchers, to deploy BC in IoT‐based PI that leverages an efficient, robust, trust‐worthy, and secure ecosystem.
Development of a database of capsaicinoid contents in foods commonly consumed in Korea
Authors: Cho Hoyoun , Kwon Youngjoo
Published: July 2020

Chili peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) are widely consumed worldwide, and the health benefits of capsaicinoids (the active compounds in chili peppers) have been suggested. However, the link between capsaicinoid consumption and the risk of certain cancers remains controversial. Capsaicinoid consumption level is an important determinant of its potential health effects. This study sought to construct a database of capsaicinoid contents in foods commonly consumed in Korea (CAPKO) to enable a more reliable estimation of capsaicinoid intake. Capsaicinoid‐containing foods were identified from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey datasets and divided into eight categories: chili peppers, red pepper powder, hot sauce, kimchi, salted seafood, red pepper paste, instant noodles, and convenience foods other than instant noodles. The capsaicinoid contents of primary capsaicinoid sources (chili peppers, red pepper powder, and hot sauce) were estimated from the literature. For the remaining food categories, the contents of primary capsaicinoid sources were identified from standardized recipes (kimchi) or food labels (salted seafood, red pepper paste, and convenience foods other than instant noodles). Then, capsaicinoid contents were estimated by calculation using the identified capsaicinoid source contents and the estimated capsaicinoid content in these sources. This information was unavailable for instant noodles, and capsaicinoid content was measured by HPLC analyses. This study developed the CAPKO database, which includes a variety of foods with varying levels of spiciness, which can be used in combination with dietary surveys to estimate capsaicinoid intakes. Therefore, this study established a framework for future database development for other compounds with potential health effects.
Leveraging existing GWAS summary data of genetically correlated and uncorrelated traits to improve power for a new GWAS
Authors: Xue Haoran , Wu Chong , Pan Wei
Published: July 2020

In spite of the tremendous success of genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) in identifying genetic variants associated with complex traits and common diseases, many more are yet to be discovered. Hence, it is always desirable to improve the statistical power of GWAS. Paralleling with the intensive efforts of integrating GWAS with functional annotations or other omic data, we propose leveraging other published GWAS summary data to boost statistical power for a new/focus GWAS; the traits of the published GWAS may or may not be genetically correlated with the target trait of the new GWAS. Building on weighted hypothesis testing with a solid theoretical foundation, we develop a novel and effective method to construct single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐specific weights based on 22 published GWAS data sets with various traits, detecting sometimes dramatically increased numbers of significant SNPs and independent loci as compared to the standard/unweighted analysis. For example, by integrating a schizophrenia GWAS summary data set with 19 other GWAS summary data sets of nonschizophrenia traits, our new method identified 1,585 genome‐wide significant SNPs mapping to 15 linkage disequilibrium‐independent loci, largely exceeding 818 significant SNPs in 13 independent loci identified by the standard/unweighted analysis; furthermore, using a later and larger schizophrenia GWAS summary data set as the validation data, 1,423 (out of 1,585) significant SNPs identified by the weighted analysis, compared to 705 (out of 818) by the unweighted analysis, were confirmed, while all 15 and 13 independent loci were also confirmed. Similar conclusions were reached with lipids and Alzheimer's disease (AD) traits. We conclude that the proposed approach is simple and cost‐effective to improve GWAS power.
Treated Wastewater Reuse on Citrus in Morocco: Assessing the Economic Feasibility of Irrigation and Nutrient Management Strategies
Authors: Oubelkacem Abdellah , Scardigno Alessandra , Choukr-Allah Redouane
Published: July 2020

Reuse of treated wastewater (TWW) for irrigation can be an effective strategy in Mediterranean countries to overcome the pressure on freshwater resources if its economic viability is demonstrated. In this work, the assessment of the economic feasibility of irrigation and nutrient management with TWW reuse was carried out in the citrus sector in the Souss Massa region of Morocco. Considering the effects of TWW reuse on yields, water, and fertilizer requirements, a mathematical nonlinear optimization model was used to identify the optimal allocation of land and nonuniform quality irrigation water and to assess the impacts on the economic performance of the citrus sector. Different water price and irrigation technology scenarios have been simulated. Overall results indicated that the reuse of TWW—with a current price higher than the conventional resource—must be subsidized to be proposed as a convenient alternative for irrigation. A reduction in the TWW price from its current level (0.23 Euro/m3) to a level equal to that of fresh water (0.15 Euro/m3) would encourage farmers to use TWW on 59% of the total cultivated area, leading to a 350 mm reduction in quantity of used fresh water per hectare. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:898–909. © 2020 SETAC
Radiolabeled HOCPCA as a highly useful tool in drug discovery and pharmacology
Authors: Griem‐Krey Nane , Frølund Bente , Marek Aleš , Wellendorph Petrine
Published: July 2020

GHB (γ‐hydroxybutyrate) is not only an endogenously present small molecule but also a clinically prescribed drug for the symptomatic treatment of narcolepsy. However, GHB's mechanism of action remains to be uncovered. Within the CNS, GHB targets both GABAB receptors and a pharmacologically distinct population of high‐affinity binding sites with unknown molecular identity. HOCPCA (3‐hydroxycyclopent‐1‐enecarboxylic acid) is a structural analog of GHB selectively targeting GHB high‐affinity binding sites. Here, we discuss the usefulness of 3H‐ and 11C‐labeled HOCPCA as radioligands for selectively probing GHB high‐affinity binding sites and their application in drug discovery. As such, [3H]HOCPCA's exceptional affinity and selectivity makes it an indispensable tool in drug discovery, and its utility has been demonstrated in, for example, homogenate binding studies, in vitro as well as ex vivo autoradiography. Moreover, the successful synthesis of [11C]HOCPCA is a starting point for further ligand development for future in vivo investigations of GHB high‐affinity binding sites.
Impact of network‐targeted multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation on intrinsic and network‐to‐network functional connectivity
Authors: Mencarelli Lucia , Menardi Arianna , Neri Francesco , Monti Lucia , Ruffini Giulio , Salvador Ricardo , Pascual‐Leone Alvaro , Momi Davide , Sprugnoli Giulia , Rossi Alessandro , Rossi Simone , Santarnecchi Emiliano
Published: July 2020

Dynamics within and between functional resting‐state networks have a crucial role in determining both healthy and pathological brain functioning in humans. The possibility to noninvasively interact and selectively modulate the activity of networks would open to relevant applications in neuroscience. Here we tested a novel approach for multichannel, network‐targeted transcranial direct current stimulation (net‐tDCS), optimized to increase excitability of the sensorimotor network (SMN) while inducing cathodal inhibitory modulation over prefrontal and parietal brain regions negatively correlated with the SMN. Using an MRI‐compatible multichannel transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) device, 20 healthy participants underwent real and sham tDCS while at rest in the MRI scanner. Changes in functional connectivity (FC) during and after stimulation were evaluated, looking at the intrinsic FC of the SMN and the strength of the negative connectivity between SMN and the rest of the brain. Standard, bifocal tDCS targeting left motor cortex (electrode ~C3) and right frontopolar (~Fp2) regions was tested as a control condition in a separate sample of healthy subjects to investigate network specificity of multichannel stimulation effects. Net‐tDCS induced greater FC increase over the SMN compared to bifocal tDCS, during and after stimulation. Moreover, exploratory analysis of the impact of net‐tDCS on negatively correlated networks showed an increase in the negative connectivity between SMN and prefrontal/parietal areas targeted by cathodal stimulation both during and after real net‐tDCS. Results suggest preliminary evidence of the possibility of manipulating distributed network connectivity patterns through net‐tDCS, with potential relevance for the development of cognitive enhancement and therapeutic tES solutions.
Treatment implications of renal disease in patients with atrial fibrillation: The BALKAN‐AF survey
Authors: Kozieł Monika , Simovic Stefan , Pavlovic Nikola , Nedeljkovic Milan , Kocijancic Aleksandar , Paparisto Vilma , Music Ljilja , Trendafilova Elina , Dan Anca Rodica , Manola Sime , Kusljugic Zumreta , Dan Gheorghe‐Andrei , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Potpara Tatjana S. ,   the BALKAN‐AF Investigators
Published: July 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) often co‐exists with renal function (RF) impairment. We investigated the characteristics and management of AF patients across creatinine clearance strata and potential changes in the use of nonvitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOAC) according to different equations for estimation of RF.

Methods

In this post hoc analysis of the BALKAN‐AF survey, patients were classified according to RF (Cockcroft‐Gault formula) as: preserved/mildly depressed RF (P‐RF) ≥50 mL/min, moderately depressed RF (MD‐RF) 30‐49 mL/min, and severely depressed RF (SD‐RF) <30 mL/min.

Results

Of 2712 enrolled patients, 2062 (76.0%) had data on RF. Patients with SD‐RF and MD‐RF were older, had higher mean value of European Heart Rhythm Association score, stroke and bleeding risk scores, and more comorbidities than patients with P‐RF (all P < .05). They received oral anticoagulants (OAC), AF catheter ablation, and electrical cardioversion less often than those with P‐RF (all P < .05). Rate control, no OAC, single‐antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) alone, and loop diuretics were more prevalent in patients with SD‐RF and MD‐RF than in subjects with P‐RF (all P < .005). An important change in NOAC therapy could appear in <1% of patients (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula) and in <1% of patients (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration group formula).

Conclusions

Patients with SD‐RF and MD‐RF were older, more symptomatic, had higher stroke and bleeding risk and more comorbidities than those with P‐RF. They were less likely to receive OAC and more likely to use rate control strategy, SAPT alone, and no OAC than subjects with P‐RF.
Copula based analysis of meteorological drought and catchment resilience across Indian river basins
Authors: Jha Vibhuti Bhushan , Gujrati Ashwin , Singh R P
Published: July 2020

Drought analysis is an important part of risk management plan. Drought is usually characterized by variables such as severity and duration. Using standardized precipitation index (SPI) at an aggregated scale of 12 months, we construct different copula models for different river basins of India. Based on goodness of fit tests, suitable distributions are selected for duration and severity. These marginal distributions are then used to construct copula models from amongst‐Frank, Gumbel, Clayton and Student's t copula. It is found that for some river basins Frank copula can capture the dependence structure between duration and severity whereas for others Gumbel copula is effective. Exceedance probability, conditional probability and joint return period of different drought events are calculated which allude to differing drought resilience and persistence conditions in river basins. The river basins in the western India have a longer joint return period and smaller exceedance probability compared to the river basins in south India. We explore the conjunctive use for joint return period and exceedance probability to qualitatively assess the resilience of river basins to meteorological drought. The results suggest that the drought events in the south Indian river basins are less severe and more frequent whereas the ones in Central and Western India are severe and longer. The results of this study can provide useful information for drought mitigation strategies at a national scale.
Abnormal epiphyseal development in a feline model of Sandhoff disease
Authors: McNulty Margaret A. , Prevatt Patricia B. , Nussbaum Elizabeth R. , Randle Ashley N. , Johnson Aime K. , Hudson Judith A. , Gray‐Edwards Heather L. , Sena‐Esteves Miguel , Martin Douglas R. , Carlson Cathy S.
Published: July 2020

Sandhoff disease (SD) is caused by decreased function of the enzyme β‐N‐acetylhexosaminidase, resulting in accumulation of GM2 ganglioside in tissues. Neural tissue is primarily affected and individuals with the infantile form of the disease generally do not survive beyond 4 years of age. Current treatments address neurometabolic deficits to improve lifespan, however, this extended lifespan allows clinical disease to become manifest in other tissues, including the musculoskeletal system. The impact of SD on bone and joint tissues has yet to be fully determined. In a feline model of infantile SD, animals were treated by intracranial injection of adeno‐associated virus vectors to supply the central nervous system with corrective levels of hexosaminidase, resulting in a twofold to threefold increase in lifespan. As treated animals aged, signs of musculoskeletal disease were identified. The present study characterized bone and joint lesions from affected cats using micro‐computed tomography and histology. All affected cats had similar lesions, whether or not they were treated. SD cats displayed a significant reduction in metaphyseal trabecular bone and markedly abnormal size and shape of epiphyses. Abnormalities increased in severity with age and appear to be due to alteration in the function of chondrocytes within epiphyseal cartilage, particularly the articular‐epiphyseal complex. Older cats developed secondary osteoarthritic changes. The changes identified are similar to those seen in humans with mucopolysaccharidoses. Statement of clinical significance: the lesions identified will have significant implications on the quality of life of individuals whose lifespans are extended due to treatments for the primary neurological effects of SD.
Interobserver and Intraobserver Reliability of Hepatic Shear Wave Elastography and the Influence of Fasted Versus Nonfasted States in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Lim Zerlene , Whitaker Toni , DeColle Kandis , Barrett Katie , Harlton Cayla , Paskar Lee , Low Gavin
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to assess the effect of fasting versus ingestion of food and water on hepatic measurements by shear wave elastography (SWE) in healthy participants. The secondary objective was to assess inter‐ and intra‐reader reliability of hepatic elastography in healthy participants.

Methods

Twenty healthy participants were enrolled in this prospective study and underwent quantitative SWE under fasting conditions and after the ingestion of water and food and water. Two blinded sonographers each independently performed a total of 6 sessions of hepatic SWE in each participant. Sessions 1 to 3 were performed on day 0 and sessions 4 to 6 on day 7. Statistical tests used included the Wilcoxon signed ranks test, the intraclass correlation coefficient, and Bland–Altman plots.

Results

There were no significant differences in hepatic SWE measurements after the ingestion of water versus the fasting state. Statistical significance was assessed as P < 0.05. The postprandial status had a statistically significant effect on hepatic SWE measurements at 1 hour (P = .04) but not at 3 hours (P = .08). By the intraclass correlation coefficient, there was poor‐to‐moderate inter‐reader agreement and minimal‐to‐moderate intra‐reader agreement. The median inter‐reader difference in SWE measurements ranged from 0.66 to 0.96 kPa. The median intra‐reader difference ranged from 0.43 to 0.55 kPa.

Conclusions

Our study shows that the ingestion of water has no effect on hepatic SWE measurements in healthy participants. The postprandial state had a significant effect on SWE measurements at 1 hour after ingestion but not at 3 hours. The inter‐reader and intra‐reader agreements were variable and moderate at best.
Hypertrophic Scar Improvement by Early Intervention With Ablative Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Treatment
Authors: Tan Jianglin , Zhou Junyi , Huang Ling , Fu Qingqing , Ao Ming , Yuan Lili , Luo Gaoxing
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives

Ablative fractional laser treatment has been used to improve the color and texture of hypertrophic scars with safe and effective results. However, no consensus on the optimal time to initiate fractional laser treatment is available. The effect on early‐stage scars remains controversial. This study was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of ablative fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatments for hypertrophic burn scars and to analyze the efficacy and safety in the early period within 3 months after injury.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective study of 221 hypertrophic scar patients. According to the time of the first laser treatment after injury, patients were divided into five subgroups, including less than 1 month, 1–3 months, 3–6 months, 6–12 months, and more than 12 months postinjury. One month after the last laser treatment, the scars were assessed by photography, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), durometry, and spectrocolorimetry.

Results

The patients included 118 males and 103 females. The average age was 33.6 years. Fire/flame was the primary injury source. Thirty‐six percent of the patients underwent at least one fractional CO2 laser treatment. All the included patients, including those treated within 1 month after injury, had significantly decreased VSS scores after laser treatment. We also noted that hardness and redness scores were decreased after treatment for both scars treated within 3 months and those treated more than 12 months after injury. Seepage (17.6%), bleeding (22.2%), and swelling (9.0%) were the main adverse events after laser treatment.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the safety and efficacy of ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment applied to early‐stage burn scars. The optimal time for laser application for burn patients can be within 1 month after injury. Durometry and spectrocolorimetry were effective for assessing scars as objective modalities. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
One‐Pot Route for Fe@Poly(styrene‐co‐divinylbenzene) Foam with Robust Physical/Chemical Stability and Remote Magnetic Driven Capacity for Oil Removal
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wu Yuanpeng , Zhang Haiyan , Guo Fengyu , Li Zhenyu
Published: July 2020

Magnetic and superhydrophobic materials with robust physical/chemical stability for controllable and remote magnetic driven capacity for oil removal under harsh environments are meaningful for oil–water separation but still a challenge. Herein, an alternative strategy to address this challenge is demonstrated by decorating poly(styrene‐co‐divinylbenzene) (PSDVB) on Fe foam via one‐pot solvothermal method. Different from previous magnetic and superhydrophobic materials, Fe foam is chosen to replace Fe3O4 nanomaterials. Thus, complicated preparation procedures and the high cost for Fe3O4 nanomaterials can be avoided. Additionally, PSDVB coating provides the whole foam with robust physical/chemical stabilities: i) the surface wettability can be maintained after 50 abrasion cycles or exposed in humid air (relative humidity: 90%) for 14 days, and ii) the surface wettability does not change under different pH solutions (3 < pH < 12) or highly salty solution (NaCl 10 wt%) for 6 h. Besides, outstanding separation efficiency (>99.9%), high durability (>70 times), and excellent oil flux (16 963–75 156 L m−2 h−1) can be realized under gravity. Most importantly, the foam continuously removes oil from confine place (on water surface or under water) under magnetic driven force.
Cataplexy in Patients Harboring the KCNMA1 p.N999S Mutation
Authors: Heim Jennifer , Vemuri Anusha , Lewis Sara , Guida Brandon , Troester Matthew , Keros Sotirios , Meredith Andrea , Kruer Michael C.
Published: July 2020

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