bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of electrolyte concentration on nanofractures fabricated in a 3D‐printed microfluidic device by controlled dielectric breakdown
Authors: Islam Md Fokhrul , Yap Yiing C. , Li Feng , Guijt Rosanne M. , Breadmore Michael C.
Published: August 2020

A three‐dimensional‐printed microfluidic device made of a thermoplastic material was used to study the creation of molecular filters by controlled dielectric breakdown. The device was made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene by a fused deposition modeling three‐dimensional printer and consisted of two V‐shaped sample compartments separated by 750 µm of extruded plastic gap. Nanofractures were formed in the thin piece of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene by controlled dielectric breakdown by application voltage of 15–20 kV with the voltage terminated when reaching a defined current threshold. Variation of the size of the nanofractures was achieved by both variation of the current threshold and by variation of the ionic strength of the electrolyte used for breakdown. Electrophoretic transport of two proteins, R‐phycoerythrin (RPE; <10 nm in size) and fluorescamine‐labeled BSA (f‐BSA; 2–4 nm), was used to monitor the size and transport properties of the nanofractures. Using 1 mM phosphate buffer, both RPE and f‐BSA passed through the nanofractures when the current threshold was set to 25 µA. However, when the threshold was lowered to 10 µA or lower, RPE was restricted from moving through the nanofractures. When we increased the electrolyte concentration during breakdown from 1 to 10 mM phosphate buffer, BSA passed but RPE was blocked when the threshold was equal to, or lower than, 25 µA. This demonstrates that nanofracture size (pore area) is directly related to the breakdown current threshold but inversely related to the concentration of the electrolyte used for the breakdown process.
Two capillary approach for a multifunctional nanoflow sheath liquid interface for capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Höcker Oliver , Knierman Mike , Meixner Jens , Neusüß Christian
Published: August 2020

CE hyphenated to ESI‐MS (CE‐ESI‐MS) is a well‐established technique to analyze charged analytes in complex samples. Although various interfaces for CE‐MS coupling are commercially available, the development of alternatives which combine sensitivity, simplicity, and robustness remains a topic of research. In this work, a nanoflow sheath liquid CE‐MS interface with two movable capillaries inside a glass emitter is described. The setup enables a separation mode and a conditioning mode to guide the separation capillary effluent either into the electrospray or to the waste, respectively. This enables to exclude parts of the analysis from MS detection and unwanted matrix components reaching the mass spectrometer, comparable to divert valves in LC‐MS coupling. Also, this function improves the overall robustness of the system by reduction of particles blocking the emitter. Preconditioning with electrospray interfering substances and even the application of coating materials for every analysis is enabled, even while the separation capillary is built into the interface with running electrospray. The functionality is demonstrated by analyses of heavy matrix bioreactor samples. Overall, this innovation offers a more convenient installation of the interface, improved handling with an extended lifetime of the emitter tips and additional functions compared to previous approaches, while keeping the higher sensitivity of nanoflow CE‐MS‐coupling.
Genetic Variation Influences Tolerance to a Neonicotinoid Insecticide in 3 Butterfly Species
Authors: Kobiela Megan E. , Snell-Rood Emilie C.
Published: August 2020

Neonicotinoid pesticides harm nontarget insects, but their sublethal effects on butterflies are understudied. We exposed larvae of 3 butterfly species (Pieris rapae, Colias philodice, and Danaus plexippus) to low levels of the neonicotinoid imidacloprid in their host plants and followed individuals to adulthood. Imidacloprid altered adult body size, especially in female monarchs, but its effects varied across maternal families, highlighting the importance of considering genetic variation in ecotoxicological testing. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2228–2236. © 2020 SETAC
The capacity of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder individuals to make autonomous decisions about pharmacological treatments for their illness in real life: A scoping review
Authors: Pons Enric Vincens , Salvador‐Carulla Luis , Calcedo‐Barba Alfredo , Paz Silvia , Messer Thomas , Pacciardi Bruno , Zeller Scott L.
Published: August 2020

Background and aim

Having decision making capacity is central to the exercise of autonomy in mental health care. The objective of this scoping review is to summarize the evidence on the capacity of people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder to make decisions about their treatment in real life to support medical practice.

Methods

Systematic search of observational studies on the assessment of capacity of patients with schizophrenia, psychosis, or bipolar disorder to make healthcare and treatment‐related decisions, conducted in any clinical setting published up to January 31, 2020 was performed. Free text searches and medical subject headings in English were combined in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycInfo. Publications were selected as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale for observational studies was used to assess the quality of publications.

Results

Thirty publications were reviewed. According to the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale criteria, the publications reviewed were good quality. Findings showed that more than 70% of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder outpatients understood treatment options at the point of making decisions about their illness and healthcare. Patients treated voluntarily had considerably better scores for decisional capacity than those treated involuntarily. The burden of psychiatric symptoms could compromise decisional capacity temporarily. Decision‐making capacity improved over time from admission to discharge from hospital, and with treatment among psychiatry inpatients. Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients could be as competent as nonpsychiatric individuals in making decisions about their treatments in everyday life.

Conclusions

This scoping review provides a body of evidence for healthcare professionals in need of assessing the capacity of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients for autonomously decide about their treatments. Decisional capacity judgements should consider variations in capacity over time and be based on the type of decision to be made, the severity of symptoms, and the specific phase of the mental disorder.
The democracy income‐growth nexus in the southern African development community revisited
Authors: Kouassi Eugene , Coulibaly Sandotin , Akinkugbe Oluyele , Mougoué Mbodja
Published: August 2020

This paper uses a dynamic panel model to examine the link between democracy and income growth in the Southern African Development Community regional bloc. The democratic capital stock, which captures the nurturing and strengthening of the policy and decision‐making environment and processes, as well as other social institutions in a nation, regardless of the degree of technological development is used as proxy for democracy. This distinguishes our approach from earlier studies of this nature; particularly for developing countries of sub‐Saharan Africa. Our results suggest that democracy has no direct impact, and perhaps no impact at all on income growth, even though there appears to be many complementarities between democratic institutions and the immediate ingredients of economic development. The results of our analysis are also robust to alternative definitions of democracy. Moreover, the conflictual signals that derive from our sensitivity analyses using the indices of ethno‐linguistic fractionalization and the politically relevant ethnic groups further strengthen the nature of the complexities associated with the debate on democracy and income growth in developing countries. In the absence of the democracy variable, our analysis reveals that income growth is significant, even with high ethnolinguistic fractionalization. These no doubt call for additional inquiries and methodological constructs in the income‐growth democracy nexus literature.
Do investors gain from forecasting the asymmetric return co‐movements of financial and real assets?
Authors: Mandal Anandadeep , Poshakwale Sunil S. , Power Gabriel J.
Published: August 2020

Recent research on asset allocation emphasizes the importance of considering non‐traditional asset classes such as commodities and real estate—the former for their diversification properties, and the latter due to its importance in the average investor's portfolio. However, modelling and forecasting asset return co‐movements is challenging because the dependence structure is dynamic, regime‐specific, and non‐elliptical. Moreover, little is known about the economic source of this time‐varying dependence or how to use this information to improve investor portfolios. We use a flexible framework to assess the economic value to investors of incorporating better forecasting information about return co‐movements between equities, bonds, commodities, and real estate. The dependence structure is allowed to be dynamic and non‐elliptical, while the state variables follow Markov‐switching stochastic volatility processes. We find that the predictability of return co‐movements is significantly improved by incorporating macro and non‐macroeconomic variables, in particular inflation uncertainty and bond illiquidity. The economic value added to investors is significant across levels of risk aversion, and the model outperforms traditional multivariate GARCH frameworks.
Peer effects in R&D investment policy: Evidence from China
Authors: Peng Zhen , Lian Yujun , Forson Joseph A.
Published: August 2020

Using a typical linear model on a sample of listed firms in China over a period of 10 years (2006–2016), this study empirically attempts proving how peer effects influence corporate research and development (R&D) investment decision. The study goes further to demonstrate that peer effects play a significant and critical role in determining corporate R&D investment policies, and by extension the more important determinant than most traditional firm‐specific factors. After dealing with endogeneity bias and conducting further robustness checks, the above conclusions were valid in this study. It has been theorized in contemporary research that both information and market competition are the main channels through which one can best appreciate peer effects and that firms with weak information acquisition ability and in highly uncertain or competitive environment are more likely to be affected by peer groups. We also find evidence that a firm's R&D investment status relative to its peer firms will affect its R&D investment decision. Moreover, the direction of peer effects follows the law of imitation. Thus, firms are more likely to imitate those peers who share similar characteristics. Yet, leading firms and state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) are exceptionally different as their R&D decisions are sensitive to both peer‐followers and non‐SOEs respectively.
Revisiting the linkage between oil and agricultural commodity prices: Panel evidence from an Agrarian state
Authors: Gokmenoglu Korhan K. , Güngör Hasan , Bekun Festus Victor
Published: August 2020

This paper utilizes panel methods to consider the dynamic relationship between oil and agricultural commodity prices. The study makes use of monthly measures realized data for six agricultural commodity prices, including cocoa, coffee, wheat, palm oil, soybeans, beef and crude oil. The dataset spans the period 2006–2015 and includes a measure for the effective exchange rate. The results of a panel unit root test suggest that all the variables are stationary after taking the first difference. The Fisher/Johansen cointegration test is then used to suggest that the dataset includes a single cointegrating vector. A regression on the long‐run characteristics of the data is then used to show that crude oil prices are positively correlated to agricultural commodity prices. This suggests that oil price for the case of Nigeria drives demand for agricultural crop commodity. The results show that agricultural commodity prices in Nigeria are responsive to global oil prices. The subsequent causality test that account for heterogeneity tests performed on the first difference of the variables reject the null hypothesis of no Granger causality in either direction between crude oil prices and agricultural crop commodity. This suggests that oil prices drive agricultural commodity prices and vice versa. Based on these outcomes several policy directions were rendered in concluding section.
Stochastic convergence in real personal disposable income in the EU: A note
Authors: Cuestas Juan C. , Monfort Mercedes , Ordóñez Javier
Published: August 2020

Economic convergence has long been a declared objective of the EU and has been considered the fundamental mechanism for achieving socioeconomic cohesion. Even so, the empirical literature finds a lack of real convergence as geographical clusters have emerged. In this paper, we contribute to the literature on income convergence in the EU by analysing convergence in real disposable income across European countries. In contrast to the previous results on real convergence in the EU, we find that most of the countries are converging to the same equilibrium level.
Polyanhydride nanoparticles stabilize pancreatic cancer antigen MUC4β
Authors: Liu Luman , Kshirsagar Prakash , Christiansen John , Gautam Shailendra K. , Aithal Abhijit , Gulati Mansi , Kumar Sushil , Solheim Joyce C. , Batra Surinder K. , Jain Maneesh , Wannemuehler Michael J. , Narasimhan Balaji
Published: August 2020

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most lethal malignancies and represents an increasing and challenging threat, especially with an aging population. The identification of immunogenic PC‐specific upregulated antigens and an enhanced understanding of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment have provided opportunities to enable the immune system to recognize cancer cells. Due to its differential upregulation and functional role in PC, the transmembrane mucin MUC4 is an attractive target for immunotherapy. In the current study we characterized the antigen stability, antigenicity and release kinetics of a MUC4β‐nanovaccine to guide further optimization and, in vivo evaluation. Amphiphilic polyanhydride copolymers based on 20 mol % 1,8‐bis(p‐carboxyphenoxy)‐3,6‐dioxaoctane and 80 mol % 1,6‐bis(p‐carboxyphenoxy)hexane were used to synthesize nanoparticles. Structurally stable MUC4β protein was released from the particles in a sustained manner and characterized by gel electrophoresis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Modest levels of protein degradation were observed upon release. The released protein was also analyzed by MUC4β‐specific monoclonal antibodies using ELISA and showed no significant loss of epitope availability. Further, mice immunized with multiple formulations of combination vaccines containing MUC4β‐loaded nanoparticles generated MUC4β‐specific antibody responses. These results indicate that polyanhydride nanoparticles are viable MUC4β vaccine carriers, laying the foundation for evaluation of this platform for PC immunotherapy.
Development of methylcellulose‐based sustained‐release dosage by semisolid extrusion additive manufacturing in drug delivery system
Authors: Cheng Yiliang , Qin Hantang , Acevedo Nuria C , Shi Xiaolei
Published: August 2020

The objective of this study is to fabricate customized dosage forms using extrusion‐based 3D printing for the sustained delivery of theophylline. The therapeutic paste was prepared by combining various doses of theophylline (0, 75, 100, and 125 mg) with different concentrations of methylcellulose (MC) A4M (8, 10, and 12%). The paste was then 3D printed into semisolid tablets under optimized printing conditions. The rheological properties of printing pastes were related to the 3D printability. Our results indicated that to be 3D printed using the current platform, the storage modulus (G′) of the printing paste should be higher than the loss modulus (G″) during the frequency sweep (0.1–600 rad/s), and the tan δ should fall in the range of 0.25–0.27 at 0.63 rad/s. The printed tablets formulated with 10% MC showed the highest overall quality, considering the aspects of resolution, texture, and shape retention regardless of the dosage. The scanning electron microscopy images indicated that the cross‐linked structure of MC A4M formed the microscale porous microstructure, which has the potential to embed the theophylline, thus delayed the release through the barrier effect. The in vitro dissolution test revealed that the 3D printed tablets exhibited a sustained release during the first 12 hr. The findings in this study will support the development of customized, personalized medicine with improved efficacy.
MALAT1 recruited the E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW7 to induce CRY2 ubiquitin‐mediated degradation and participated in trophoblast migration and invasion
Authors: Wu Lianzhi , Liu Qian , Fan Cuifang , Yi Xiaofang , Cheng Biheng
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which MALAT1 regulates CRY2 expression and participates in trophoblast migration and invasion. Three patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion, four patients with missed abortion, and four women who underwent artificial miscarriages were enrolled in this study. Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were used to detect RNA and protein expression, respectively. Trophoblast migration and invasion were detected by wound‐healing and transwell invasion assays. RNA pull‐down and Co‐IP assays were used to indicate the interaction between MALAT1 and FBXW7 or the interaction between FBXW7 and CRY2. The results showed significantly decreased MALAT1 expression in the villous specimens from the RSA patients relative to that in the villous specimens from the missed abortion patients and the normal villous specimens. MALAT1 promoted trophoblast cell migration and invasion by negatively regulating CRY2 protein expression. MALAT1 recruited FBXW7 to impair CRY2 protein stability. In conclusion, MALAT1 downregulation in trophoblasts might be related to miscarriage. MALAT1 may recruit the E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW7 to induce CRY2 ubiquitin‐mediated degradation and participate in trophoblast migration and invasion.
Cartilage regeneration with dual‐drug‐releasing injectable hydrogel/microparticle system: In vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Naghizadeh Ziba , Karkhaneh Akbar , Nokhbatolfoghahaei Hanieh , Farzad‐Mohajeri Saeed , Rezai‐Rad Maryam , Dehghan Mohammad M. , Aminishakib Pouyan , Khojasteh Arash
Published: August 2020

In this study, we developed an injectable in situ forming hydrogel/microparticle system consisting of two drugs, melatonin and methylprednisolone, to investigate the capability of the system for chondrogenesis in vitro and in vivo. The chemical, mechanical, and rheological properties of the hydrogel/microparticle were investigated. For in vitro evaluation, the adipose‐derived stem cells might be mixed with hydrogel/microparticles, then cellular viability was analyzed by acridine orange/propidium iodide and 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole staining and also dimethylmethylene blue assay were conducted to find the amount of proteoglycan. The real‐time polymerase chain reaction for aggrecan, sex‐determining region Y–Box 9, collagen I (COL1), and COL2 gene expression was performed after 14 and 21 days. For evaluation of cartilage regeneration, the samples were implanted in rabbit knees with cartilaginous experimental defects. Defects were created in both knees of three groups of rabbits. Group 1 was the control with no injection, and Groups 2 and 3 were loaded with hydrogel/cell and hydrogel/microparticle/cell; respectively. Then, after 3 and 6 months, histological evaluations of the defected sites were carried out. The amount of glycosaminoglycans after 14 and 21 days increased significantly in hydrogels/microparticles loaded with cells. The expression of marker genes was also significant in hydrogels/microparticles loaded with cells. According to histology analysis, the hydrogels/microparticles loaded with cells showed the best cartilage regeneration. Overall, our study revealed that the developed injectable hydrogel/microparticle can be used for cartilage regeneration.
Antimicrobial peptide AR‐23 derivatives with high endosomal disrupting ability enhance poly(l‐lysine)‐mediated gene transfer
Authors: Zhang Shi‐Kun , Gong Lin , Zhang Xue , Yun Zhi‐Min , Li Su‐Bo , Gao Hong‐Wei , Dai Cong‐Jie , Yuan Jian‐Jun , Chen Jing‐Ming , Gong Feng , Tan Ying‐Xia , Ji Shou‐Ping
Published: August 2020

Background

pH‐sensitive peptides are a relatively new strategy for conquering the poor endosomal release of cationic polymer‐mediated transfection. Modification of antimicrobial peptides by exchanging positively‐charged residues with negatively‐charged glutamic acid residues (Glu) greatly improves its lytic activity at the endosomal pH, which could improve cationic polymer‐mediated transfection.

Methods

In the present study, we investigated the effect of the number of Glu substituted for positively‐charged residues on the endosomal escape activity of AR‐23 and the ability of mutated AR‐23 with respect to enhancing cationic polymer‐mediated transfection. Three analogs were synthesized by replacing the positively‐charged residues in the AR‐23 sequence with Glu one‐by‐one.

Results

The pH‐sensitive lysis ability of the peptides, the effect of peptides on the physicochemical characteristics, the intracellular trafficking, the transfection efficiency and the cytotoxicity of the polyplexes were determined. Increased lytic activity of peptides was observed with the increased number of Glu replacement in the AR‐23 sequence at acidic pH. The number of Glu substituted for positively‐charged residues of AR‐23 dramatically affects its lysis ability at neutral pH. Triple‐Glu substitution in the AR‐23 sequence greatly improved poly(l‐lysine)‐mediated gene transfection efficiency at the same time as maintaining low cytotoxicity.

Conclusions

The results indicate that replacement of positively‐charged residues with sufficient Glu residues may be considered as a method for designing pH‐sensitive peptides, which could be applied as potential enhancers for improving cationic polymer‐mediated transfection.
Familial DHCR7 genotype presenting as a very mild form of Smith‐Lemli‐Opitz syndrome and lethal holoprosencephaly
Authors: Temple Suzanna E. L. , Sachdev Rani , Ellaway Carolyn
Published: August 2020

Smith‐Lemli‐Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder caused by variants in the DHCR7 gene. In cholesterol biosynthesis, 7‐dehydrocholesterol (7‐DHC) is converted to cholesterol by the enzyme 7‐DHC reductase, which is encoded by the gene DHCR7. Thus, an elevated 7‐DHC is indicative of SLOS. Characteristically SLOS is usually associated with congenital anomalies, dysmorphisms, and moderate to severe neurodevelopmental delay. However, there are rare descriptions of individuals with milder phenotypes. We report a mild case of SLOS presenting with short stature, cleft palate, imperforate anus, and mild language delay with subtle dysmorphic features. 7‐DHC was not elevated at 1 year of age and SLOS considered excluded at this time. The parents had two pregnancies with holoprosencephaly. Whole exome sequencing of one of the fetuses identified compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in the DHCR7 gene (c.964‐1G>C (p.?) and c.1039G>A (p.Gly347Ser) causative of SLOS. The proband with a mild form of SLOS was also found to have the same DHCR7 variants as the fetus and repeat testing of 7‐DHC at 4 years of age was elevated, in keeping with SLOS. This case is the first to describe a wide intrafamilial phenotypic spectrum of SLOS as a result of the same DHCR7 genotype. This case also supports the findings of others that a normal or near normal development should not exclude SLOS. As demonstrated in this case exclusion of a metabolic diagnosis because of a negative biochemical marker such as 7‐DHC is not absolute and if clinical suspicion remains genomic sequencing is warranted.
Association between markers of immune response at hospital admission and COVID‐19 disease severity and mortality: A meta‐analysis and meta‐regression
Authors: Khinda Jaskaran , Janjua Naveed Z. , Cheng Shannon , van den Heuvel Edwin R. , Bhatti Parveen , Darvishian Maryam
Published: August 2020

Background

To determine the utility of admission laboratory markers in the assessment and prognostication of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19), a systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted on the association between admission laboratory values in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients and subsequent disease severity and mortality.

Material and Methods

Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Pubmed, Embase, and the WHO Global Research Database from December 1,2019 to May 1, 2020 for relevant articles. A random effects meta‐analysis was used to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for each of 27 laboratory markers. The impact of age and sex on WMDs was estimated using meta‐regression techniques for 11 markers.

Results

In total, 64 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most marked WMDs were for neutrophils (ANC) at 3.82 × 109/L (2.76, 4.87), lymphocytes (ALC) at −0.34 × 109/L (−0.45, −0.23), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) at 32.59 pg/mL (23.99, 41.19), ferritin at 814.14 ng/mL (551.48, 1076.81), C‐reactive protein (CRP) at 66.11 mg/L (52.16, 80.06), D‐dimer at 5.74 mg/L (3.91, 7.58), LDH at 232.41 U/L (178.31, 286.52), and high sensitivity troponin I at 90.47 pg/mL (47.79, 133.14) when comparing fatal to nonfatal cases. Similar trends were observed comparing severe to non‐severe groups. There were no statistically significant associations between age or sex and WMD for any of the markers included in the meta‐regression.

Conclusion

The results highlight that hyper inflammation, blunted adaptive immune response, and intravascular coagulation play key roles in the pathogenesis of COVID‐19. Markers of these processes are good candidates to identify patients for early intervention and, importantly, are likely reliable regardless of age or sex in adult patients.
Experimental platforms for the investigation of spatiotemporal patterns in the rhizosphere—Laboratory and field scale
Authors: Vetterlein Doris , Lippold Eva , Schreiter Susanne , Phalempin Maxime , Fahrenkampf Toni , Hochholdinger Frank , Marcon Caroline , Tarkka Mika , Oburger Eva , Ahmed Mutez , Javaux Mathieu , Schlüter Steffen
Published: August 2020

The numerous feedback loops between roots, microorganisms, soil chemical and physical properties, and environmental variables result in spatial parameter patterns which are highly dynamic in time. In order to improve our understanding of the related rhizosphere processes and their relevance at the soil–plant system scale, experimental platforms are required. Those platforms should enable (1) to relate small scale observations (nm to dm) to system behaviour, (2) the integration of physical, chemical and biological sampling approaches within the same experiment, and (3) sampling at different time points during the life cycle of the system in question. Here we describe what requirements have to be met and to what extent this has been achieved in practice by the experimental platforms which were set up within the framework of DFG priority programme 2089 “Rhizosphere Spatiotemporal Organisation—a key to rhizosphere functions”. It is discussed to what extent theoretical considerations could be accommodated, in particular for the comparison across scales, i.e., from laboratory to field scale. The latter scale is of utmost importance to overcome the trade‐off between fraction of life cycle covered and the avoidance of unrealistic root length densities.
Analysis of corn and sorghum flour mixtures using laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Akın Pervin A , Sezer Banu , Bean Scott R , Peiris Kamaranga , Tilley Michael , Apaydın Hakan , Boyacı İsmail H
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

In a world constantly challenged by climate change, corn and sorghum are two important grains because of their high productivity and adaptability, and their multifunctional use for different purposes such as human food, animal feed, and feedstock for many industrial products and biofuels. Corn and sorghum can be utilized interchangeably in certain applications; one grain may be preferred over the other for several reasons. The determination of the composition corn and sorghum flour mixtures may be necessary for economic, regulatory, environmental, functional, or nutritional reasons.

RESULTS

Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in combination with chemometrics, was used for the classification of flour samples based on the LIBS spectra of flour types and mixtures using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) and the determination of the sorghum ratio in sorghum / corn flour mixture based on their elemental composition using partial least squares (PLS) regression. Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy with PLS‐DA successfully identified the samples as either pure corn, pure sorghum, or corn‐sorghum mixtures. Moreover, the addition of various levels of sorghum flour to mixtures of corn‐sorghum flour were used for PLS analysis. The coefficient of determination values of calibration and validation PLS models are 0.979 and 0.965, respectively. The limit of detection of the PLS models is 4.36%.

CONCLUSION

This study offers a rapid method for the determination of the sorghum level in corn‐sorghum flour mixtures and the classification of flour samples with high accuracy, a short analysis time, and no requirement for time‐consuming sample preparation procedures. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Capillary liquid chromatography as an effective method for the determination of seven neonicotinoid residues in honey samples
Authors: Carbonell‐Rozas Laura , Lara Francisco J. , del Olmo Iruela Monsalud , García‐Campaña Ana M.
Published: August 2020

A new analytical method based on capillary liquid chromatography with diode array detection has been developed for the simultaneous quantification of seven neonicotinoid insecticides commercially available (imidacloprid, thiacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam, acetamiprid, nitenpyram, and dinotefuran) in honey samples. The separation was achieved in a Zorbax XDB‐C18 column (150 × 0.5 mm id, 5 μm), with a mobile phase consisting of ultrapure water (solvent A) and acetonitrile (solvent B) at a flow rate of 10 μL/min. Capillary column was thermostated at 25°C during the analysis and 254 or 270 nm was established as detection wavelength, depending on the analyte. Furthermore, full loop injection mode (8 μL) was selected, using water as injection solvent. Finally, the optimized method was applied to the analysis of neonicotinoid residues in honey of different floral origins using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction as sample treatment. Variables affecting the extraction efficiency were optimized, choosing methanol and dichloromethane as dispersive and extraction solvents, respectively. The method was characterized in terms of linearity (≥ 0.9948), repeatability, reproducibility (relative standard deviation below 4.5 and 6.3% respectively), and recoveries (≥80.5%). Detection and quantification limits were lower than 6.6 and 22.0 μg/kg for the studied analytes, respectively.
Simultaneous separation and indirect ultraviolet detection of chlorate and perchlorate by pyridinium ionic liquids in reversed‐phase liquid chromatography
Authors: Yin Zhen‐jie , Zhang Ya‐nan , Guan Fu‐jing , Yu Hong , Ma Ya‐jie
Published: August 2020

A novel approach for the simultaneous separation and indirect ultraviolet detection of chlorate and perchlorate using pyridinium ionic liquids as mobile phase additives in reversed‐phase liquid chromatography was developed. Pyridinium ionic liquids and imidazolium ionic liquids as the mobile phase additives were compared. The effects of pyridinium ionic liquids, methanol, column temperature, and detection wavelength on the separation and detection of chlorate and perchlorate were investigated. The role of ionic liquids, retention rules and relevant mechanisms were discussed. Pyridinium ionic liquids mainly acted as ultraviolet absorption reagent and ion‐pair reagent. The successful separation and indirect ultraviolet detection of chlorate and perchlorate were achieved by using a common reversed‐phase column, 0.2 mmol/L N‐octylpyridinium bromide aqueous solution/methanol (90/10, v/v) as mobile phase and at the detection wavelength of 210 nm. The retention times of chlorate and perchlorate were 30.51 and 37.06 min, respectively. The detection limits of chlorate and perchlorate were 0.16 and 0.29 mg/L, respectively. The linearity and repeatability of the method were satisfactory. The approach was used to the analysis of river water samples with accurate and reliable results. This method is easy to popularize due to the use of common reversed‐phase column and ultraviolet detector in liquid chromatography.
Clinical Effects of Radiofrequency Coblation for Adult Laryngopharyngeal Vascular Lesions
Authors: Jia Junxiao , Zhang Junbo , Xiao Shuifang
Published: August 2020

Objective

To explore the feasibility and efficacy of transoral radiofrequency coblation surgery (TRS) in the treatment of adult laryngopharyngeal vascular lesion (LVL).

Methods

A total of 15 patients with LVL were retrospectively studied, including 11 capillary lesions and five cavernous lesions (there was one case with two separate lesions). All of the lesions were treated with TRS alone (capillary lesion) or with a combination of TRS and sclerotherapy (cavernous lesion). The treatment efficacy was evaluated according to the modified Achauer criteria: grade 1, no change in size; grade 2, a decrease of < 50% in size; grade 3, a decrease of ≥ 50% but < 100%; and grade 4, the disappearance of the lesion with no recurrence for at least 6 months.

Results

The surgical procedures were successfully completed in all patients. According to the modified Achauer criteria, the treatment outcomes were grade 4 for 10 capillary lesions and one cavernous lesion; grade 3 for one capillary lesion and one cavernous lesion; grade 2 for one cavernous lesion; and grade 1 for two cavernous lesions, respectively. No complications related to the surgery, including bleeding, dysphagia, and infections, occurred after treatment.

Conclusion

The TRS is an effective treatment option for LVL, especially for patients with laryngopharyngeal capillary lesions.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:566–570, 2021
Cost‐Effectiveness of Surgery Versus Organ Preservation in Advanced Laryngeal Cancer
Authors: Beck Ann‐Jean C. C. , van Harten Wim H. , van den Brekel Michiel W. M. , Navran Arash , Retèl Valesca P.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Treatment decision‐making for patients with laryngeal cancer consists of a complex trade‐off between survival and quality of life. For decision makers on coverage and guidelines, costs come in addition to this equation. Our aim was to perform a cost‐effectiveness analysis of surgery (laryngectomy with or without radiotherapy) versus organ preservation (OP: radiotherapy, chemo‐ and/or bioradiation) in advanced laryngeal cancer patients from a healthcare perspective.

Methods

A cost‐effectiveness analysis was conducted using a Markov model. For each modality, data on survival and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were sourced from relevant articles in agreement with experts, and national benchmark cost prices were included regarding treatment, follow‐up, adverse events, and rehabilitation.

Results

Total QALYs of the surgical approach (6.59) were substantially higher compared to the OP approach (5.44). Total lifetime costs were higher for the surgical approach compared to the OP approach, namely €95,881 versus €47,233. The surgical approach was therefore more effective and more costly compared to OP, resulting in an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of €42,383/QALY.

Conclusion

Based on current literature, surgical treatment was cost‐effective compared to OP in advanced laryngeal cancer within most willingness‐to‐pay thresholds. The study provides information on the survival adjusted for quality of life in combination with costs of two different approaches for advanced laryngeal cancer, relevant for patients, physicians, and policy makers. As financial toxicity is a relevant aspect in this population, collection of real‐world data on country‐specific costs and utilities is strongly recommended to enable further generalization.

Level of Evidence

N/A.Laryngoscope, 131:E509–E517, 2021
Biogeochemistry and microbiology of high Arctic marine sediment ecosystems—Case study of Svalbard fjords
Authors: Jørgensen Bo Barker , Laufer Katja , Michaud Alexander B. , Wehrmann Laura M.
Published: August 2020

Fjord ecosystems of the high Arctic are distinct from fjords of temperate latitudes due to the influence of glaciers, icebergs, sea ice, and the permanently low temperatures. The sediment microbiology and biogeochemical processes were analyzed during an international research program with multiple field studies in Svalbard, situated between the Barents Sea and the Arctic Ocean. We here describe the physical and geochemical setting and the predominant microbiological processes in several fjords. Physiological studies of sediments and pure cultures show how the predominantly psychrophilic bacteria are adapted to the near‐zero temperature. The microbial communities include bacteria responsible for organic matter hydrolytic degradation, fermentation, and terminal oxidation to CO2. These processes drive the cycling of carbon, sulfur, iron, and manganese. The balance between the dominant sediment microbial processes changes along transects out through the fjords, reflecting the varying impact of the glacier‐derived rock flour, rich in metal oxides at the head, and the plankton‐derived, labile, marine organic matter at the mouth. Due to accelerated warming of Arctic ecosystems, glaciers are retreating with impacts on the physical, chemical, and biological functioning of the fjord sediment ecosystems.
An ESA‐CFD combined method for dynamic analysis of the aerostatic journal bearing
Authors: Li Yifei , Yin Yihui , Cui Hailong
Published: August 2020

For the aerostatic journal bearing with orifice‐type restrictor, it is difficult to analyse the bearing performances because of the complex air film geometry. In the present work, based on the traditional engineering simplification algorithm (ESA) for bearing performances calculation, an ESA‐CFD combined method is proposed by integrating ESA method with modern computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation technique, where both advantages of the ESA and CFD methods are retained. With this approach, both static and dynamic performances of the journal bearing can be analyzed with a high level of accuracy and low computational cost. As an example, an engineering journal bearing is considered and its performances are analyzed. The influences of bearing parameters on dynamic performances are particularly discussed, and meanwhile, the calculation accuracy is verified by conducting experiments. The proposed ESA‐CFD combined method can provide an efficient way for engineering application in design of aerostatic journal bearing, especially for the design optimization.
Numerical Investigations of Perfectly Mixed Condition at the Inlet of Free Radical Polymerization Tubular Microreactors of Different Geometries
Authors: Garg Dhiraj K. , Serra Christophe A. , Hoarau Yannick , Parida Dambarudhar , Bouquey Michel , Muller Rene
Published: August 2020

The numerical investigation of free radical polymerization (FRP) of methyl methacrylate under mixed feed condition at inlet is made for three microtubular reactor geometries, namely, straight tube, coiled tube, and coil flow inverter reactor. The effect of variation of fluid thermophysical properties (FTPP) (density, viscosity, and thermal conductivity) with reaction along with discrete variation of chemical species diffusion coefficient is studied. Predicted values of monomer conversion, number‐average chain length (DPn), and polydispersity index (PDI) are found to be systematically lower for variable FTPP case compared to constant FTPP case. But contrary to expectations, results are found to be independent of reactor geometry for either case. Results clearly show the importance of modeling the variation of FTPP especially with respect to conversion. One case of varying diffusion coefficient of each chemical species based on free volume theory with constant FTPP is also simulated. Here again, the results are found to be independent of reactor geometry. Constant thermal conductivity and isothermal reactor condition are found to be good assumptions. This study clearly establishes the need not only for variable FTPP, thus coupling transport processes, but also for incorporating varying diffusion coefficient along with conversion in modeling of FRP in microreactors for better predictions.
Impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Parkinson's Disease: A Cross‐Sectional Survey of 568 Spanish Patients
Authors: Santos‐García Diego , Oreiro Mila , Pérez Patricia , Fanjul Gemma , Paz González Jose Manuel , Feal Painceiras María José , Cores Bartolomé Carlos , Valdés Aymerich Lorena , García Sancho Carlos , Castellanos Rodrigo Maria del Mar
Published: August 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to know the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on Spanish patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

This is a descriptive, observational, cross‐sectional study. An anonymous online survey with 95 questions was distributed among patients. Responses were collected from 11 May 2020 to 20 July 2020.

Results

Of a total of 570 questionnaires received, 568 (99.6%) were considered valid for the analysis (mean age, 63.5 ± 12.5 years; 53% females). A total of 553 patients (97.4%) were aware of the COVID‐19 pandemic and 68.8% were concerned about it; 95.6% took preventive measures. A total of 484 patients (85.2%) had no contact with cases of COVID‐19, and only 15 (2.6%) had confirmed COVID‐19. Although up to 72.7% remained active during confinement, 65.7% perceived a worsening of their symptoms.

Conclusions

Spanish patients with PD perceived the COVID‐19 pandemic with concern and responsibility. More than half experienced worsening of their symptoms during confinement. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Unified mathematical model of the kinetics of nanoparticle phase condensation in magnetic fields
Authors: Kuzhir Pavel , Raboisson‐Michel Maxime , Queiros Campos Jordy , Verger‐Dubois Gregory , Zubarev Andrey Yu.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we aim to present a unified mathematical modeling and description of the kinetics of magnetic nanoparticles phase condensation (conducting to the appearance of bulk elongated aggregates) under homogeneous permanent or alternating magnetic field. For such case, the aggregate growth rate usually takes the form dV/dt = G(V)∆(t), with V and t being the aggregate's volume and time, respectively, ∆(t)—the supersaturation of the nanoparticle suspension, and with the function G(V) depending on the precise configuration of the applied field. The Liouville equation for the aggregate size distribution function is solved by the method of characteristics. The solution is obtained in parametric form for an arbitrary function G(V), providing a general framework for any type of the applied magnetic field. In the particular case of low‐frequency rotating magnetic field (G(V)~V2/3), an explicit expression of the distribution function is obtained, while the dimensionless average aggregate volume 〈V〉 is found by the method of moments allowing a complete decoupling of the system of equations for the statistical moments 〈Vn〉 of the distribution function. Numerical examples are provided for the cases of permanent and low‐ or medium‐frequency rotating fields. It is shown that in all cases, the average volume 〈V〉 only slightly depends on the relative width of the initial size distribution. Nevertheless, at any times, t > 0, the size distribution shows a significant spreading around the average value 〈V〉, which increases progressively with time and achieves a final plateau at long times. This model can be helpful for several biomedical or environmental applications of magnetic nanoparticles in which the nanoparticle suspension undergoes a field‐induced phase condensation.
Differences in voluntary and reflexive cough strength in individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and healthy adults
Authors: Tabor‐Gray Lauren , Vasilopoulos Terrie , Plowman Emily K.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Dystussia impacts the ability to protect the airway. Voluntary cough provides a metric of airway defense but differs from the reflexive response to aspiration during swallowing. Therefore, we evaluated relationships between voluntary and reflexive cough among individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and a healthy cohort.

Methods

Twenty‐eight individuals with ALS and 26 healthy individuals completed voluntary and reflexive cough testing. Descriptive statistics, reliability, and paired t tests were conducted to evaluate differences in cough volume acceleration (CVA) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) in voluntary vs reflexive cough.

Results

Compared with reflexive cough, voluntary CVA and PEFR were greater in individuals with ALS [t(27) = 4.83, P < .001 and t(27) = 8.69, P < .001] and the healthy cohort [t(21) = 5.91, P < .001 and t(21) = 12.26, P < .001], respectively.

Discussion

These findings hold important implications for the use and interpretation of voluntary peak cough flow during clinical swallowing evaluations.
Black Bullhead Removal from a Headwater Trout Stream in Southern California
Authors: Barabe Russell
Published: August 2020

The introduction of invasive species has resulted in negative impacts to aquatic ecosystems and is cited as the second leading cause of fish extinctions. In the southwestern United States, low diversity and high levels of endemism increase the deleterious effects of these introductions. Near the southern edge of their range, the last remaining population of native Coastal Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus in San Diego County, California, inhabits the West Fork San Luis Rey River (WFSLRR). The nonnative Black Bullhead Ameiurus melas was discovered in the WFSLRR in 2007, elevating concern over this small population of Coastal Rainbow Trout. Preliminary surveys found that baited minnow traps set overnight were effective at capturing Black Bullhead; therefore, a removal project was initiated. Crew members set baited traps at the upstream end of the Coastal Rainbow Trout distribution in the evening (maximum = 72 traps/trip) and checked the traps the following morning. Four two-night trips were completed in 2016, removing 1,315 Black Bullhead. The initial Black Bullhead population was estimated as 1,361 fish by a depletion function. Follow-up surveys in 2017 and 2018 captured no Black Bullhead. Prolonged drought conditions in California during the removal effort may have concentrated the Black Bullhead into pools, facilitating this rare complete eradication of an invasive fish species.