bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma mineral (selenium, zinc or copper) concentrations in the general pregnant population, adjusted for supplement intake, in relation to thyroid function
Authors: Pop Victor , Krabbe Johannes , Maret Wolfgang , Rayman Margaret
Published: July 2020

The present study reports on first-trimester reference ranges of plasma mineral Se/Zn/Cu concentration in relation to free thyroxine (FT4), thyrotropin (TSH) and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab), assessed at 12 weeks’ gestation in 2041 pregnant women, including 544 women not taking supplements containing Se/Zn/Cu. The reference range (2·5th–97·5th percentiles) in these 544 women was 0·72–1·25 µmol/l for Se, 17·15–35·98 µmol/l for Cu and 9·57–16·41 µmol/l for Zn. These women had significantly lower mean plasma Se concentration (0·94 (sd0·12) µmol/l) than those (n1479) taking Se/Zn/Cu supplements (1·03 (sd0·14) µmol/l;P< 0·001), while the mean Cu (26·25 µmol/l) and Zn (12·55 µmol/l) concentrations were almost identical in these sub-groups. Women with hypothyroxinaemia (FT4 below reference range with normal TSH) had significantly lower plasma Zn concentrations than euthyroid women. After adjusting for covariates including supplement intake, plasma Se (negatively), Zn and Cu (positively) concentrations were significantly related to logFT4; Se and Cu (but not Zn) were positively and significantly related to logTSH. Women taking additional Se/Zn/Cu supplements were 1·46 (95 % CI 1·09, 2·04) times less likely to have elevated titres of TPO-Ab at 12 weeks of gestation. We conclude that first-trimester Se reference ranges are influenced by Se-supplement intake, while Cu and Zn ranges are not. Plasma mineral Se/Zn/Cu concentrations are associated with thyroid FT4 and TSH concentrations. Se/Zn/Cu supplement intake affects TPO-Ab status. Future research should focus on the impact of trace mineral status during gestation on thyroid function.
The dynamics of ultrastructural changes during Entamoeba invadens encystation
Authors: Mousa Eman Abdelazeem Abuelwafa , Sakaguchi Miako , Nakamura Risa , Abdella Osama Hussein , Yoshida Hiroki , Hamano Shinjiro , Mi-ichi Fumika
Published: July 2020

Entamoeba histolytica infection causes amoebiasis, which is a global public health problem. The major route of infection is oral ingestion of E. histolytica cysts, cysts being the sole form responsible for host-to-host transmission. Cysts are produced by cell differentiation from proliferative trophozoites in a process termed ‘encystation’. Therefore, encystation is an important process from a medical as well as a biological perspective. Previous electron microscopy studies have shown the ultrastructure of precysts and mature cysts; however, the dynamics of ultrastructural changes during encystation were ambiguous. Here, we analysed a series of Entamoeba invadens encysting cells by transmission electron microscopy. Entamoeba invadens is a model for encystation and the cells were prepared by short interval time course sampling from in vitro encystation-inducing cultures. We related sampled cells to stage conversion, which was monitored in the overall population by flow cytometry. The present approach revealed the dynamics of ultrastructure changes during E. invadens encystation. Importantly, the results indicate a functional linkage of processes that are crucial in encystation, such as glycogen accumulation and cyst wall formation. Hence, this study provides a reference for studying sequential molecular events during Entamoeba encystation.
Mimotope-based antigens as potential vaccine candidates in experimental murine cysticercosis
Authors: Manhani Marianna Nascimento , Tilelli Cristiane Queixa , Ribeiro Vanessa da Silva , Goulart Luiz Ricardo , Costa-Cruz Julia Maria
Published: July 2020

Human cysticercosis is a public health problem caused byTaenia soliummetacestodes; thus, eradication ofT. soliumtransmission by vaccination is an urgent requirement. The Cc48 mimotope fromT. soliumcysticerci was tested expressed in phage particles (mCc48) and chemically synthesized (sCc48) as a vaccine candidate in experimental murine cysticercosis. For this, BALB/c mice were immunized with mCc48 (G1;n= 40), sCc48 (G2;n= 40) and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (G3;n= 40, positive control) and challenged withTaenia crassicepsmetacestodes. Another PBS group without parasite challenge was used as a negative control (G4;n= 40). Mice were sacrificed 15, 30, 45 and 60 days post-infection for cysticerci and serum collection. Immunization efficacy was determined by cysticerci counting. Serum samples were tested by ELISA to verify antibody (IgM, IgG, IgA and IgE) and cytokine (IFNγand IL-4) levels. The sCc48 achieved the highest rates of protection and efficacy (90 and 98%, respectively). The group immunized with mCc48 presented the highest reactivity for IgM, IgG and IgE. All groups presented IL-4, but IFNγwas quite variable among groups. The protection induced by sCc48 synthetic peptide supports further studies of this mimotope as a potential vaccine candidate against cysticercosis.
In vitroandin vivoassays reveal that cations affect nematocyst discharge inMyxobolus cerebralis(Cnidaria: Myxozoa)
Authors: Americus Benjamin , Austin Brett M. , Lotan Tamar , Bartholomew Jerri L. , Atkinson Stephen D.
Published: July 2020

Myxozoans are parasitic, microscopic cnidarians that have retained the phylum-characteristic stinging capsules called nematocysts. Free-living cnidarians, like jellyfish and corals, utilize nematocysts for feeding and defence, with discharge powered by osmotic energy. Myxozoans use nematocysts to anchor to their fish hosts in the first step of infection, however, the discharge mechanism is poorly understood. We usedMyxobolus cerebralis, a pathogenic myxozoan parasite of salmonid fishes, and developed two assays to explore the nature of its nematocyst discharge. Using parasite actinospores, the infectious stage to fish, we stimulated discharge of the nematocysts with rainbow trout mucusin vitro, in solutions enriched with chloride salts of Na+, K+, Ca2+and Gd3+, and quantified discharge using microscopy. We then used quantitative polymerase chain reaction to evaluate thein vivoeffects of these treatments, plus Mg2+and the common aquaculture disinfectant KMnO₄, on the ability ofM. cerebralisactinospores to infect fish. We found that Mg2+and Gd3+reduced infectionin vivo, whereas Na+and K+over-stimulated nematocyst dischargein vitroand reduced infectionin vivo. These findings align with nematocyst discharge behaviour in free-living Cnidaria, and suggest phylum-wide commonalties, which could be exploited to develop novel approaches for controlling myxozoan diseases in aquaculture.
The illegal wildlife digital market: an analysis of Chinese wildlife marketing and sale on Facebook
Authors: Xu Qing , Cai Mingxiang , Mackey Tim K
Published: July 2020

At an estimated US$19 billion, the illicit wildlife trade is a serious threat to global conservation efforts. This criminal enterprise is now digital, expanding its footprint to consumers internationally by using the Internet and social media platforms. Recent studies have detected illegal wildlife selling posts on the popular social networking site Facebook in several different languages, including Chinese. In order to further explore this challenge to conservation, this study used big data approaches to identify and characterize wildlife trading activity in Chinese language on Facebook using an automated web scraper. We focused on keywords associated with elephants, rhinos and hawksbill turtles. We collected 10 303 unique Facebook posts over a 45-day period and were able to identify 639 posts from 268 unique users, which we suspect of directly marketing the sale of wildlife products. We also identified other species including Tibetan antelope, bears and African spurred tortoises. Facebook community pages appeared to have the highest percentage (48.2%) of wildlife selling posts. We also identified 14 different countries and regions with suspected wildlife-selling users, most located in Taiwan. Furthermore, we observed that the language used by some sellers changed from descriptive text to emojis and other code words. Collective action is needed from governments, law enforcement, civil society and technology companies leveraging big data approaches to better detect and interdict online Chinese-language wildlife trafficking.
Changing parental depression and sensitivity: Randomized clinical trial of ABC's effectiveness in the community
Authors: Perrone Laura , Imrisek Steven D. , Dash Allison , Rodriguez Melanie , Monticciolo Erasma , Bernard Kristin
Published: July 2020

Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC) demonstrates efficacy in improving parent and child outcomes, with preliminary evidence for effectiveness in community settings. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a community-based ABC implementation in improving parent outcomes as well as to examine potential mediators and moderators of intervention effectiveness. Two hundred parents and their 5- to 21-month-old infants recruited from an urban community were randomly assigned to receive ABC or be placed on a waitlist. The majority of participants had a minority racial or ethnic background. Before intervention, parents completed questionnaires about sociodemographic risk and adverse childhood experiences. At both baseline and follow-up, parents reported depression symptoms and were video-recorded interacting with their infant, which was coded for sensitivity. The ABC intervention predicted significant increases in parental sensitivity and, among parents who completed the intervention, significant decreases in depression symptoms. Changes in parental depression symptoms did not significantly mediate the intervention effects on sensitivity. Risk variables did not moderate the intervention effects. The results indicate that ABC shows promise for improving parent outcomes in community settings, supporting dissemination.
REPRESENTACIONES DE OSO NEGRO EN CERÁMICA HUASTECA DEL CLÁSICO EN TANCAMA, QUERÉTARO, MÉXICO
Authors: Sánchez-Herrera Óscar , Navarro-Noriega Laura , Quiróz Moreno Jorge A. , Benítez Galván Lliría , López Hernández Pablo I. , Pérez Martínez Andrea , Arroyo-Cabrales Joaquín
Published: July 2020

Muchos animales se encuentran entretejidos en las visiones cósmicas de diferentes culturas del mundo. En este contexto varias especies han sido idealizadas como referentes que sintetizan atributos apreciados por el hombre como poder, valor, nobleza, así como fuerzas de la naturaleza o de lo desconocido. Con frecuencia son animales grandes los que han capturado la atención humana desde sus orígenes, como lo refleja el arte parietal antiguo. Probablemente esto obedece a que se les consideró importantes para la vida cotidiana y también a su supuesta influencia en mitos de mundos paralelos.

En varias culturas alrededor del mundo se ha asignado a los osos un sitio prominente. Se conocen rituales y cultos relacionados con la presencia del oso en distintos grupos humanos en Asia, en pueblos originarios de Norteamérica y culturas de los Andes. Estas manifestaciones ocurren, por lo general, en sociedades que se encuentran asentadas en territorios dentro las principales áreas de distintas especies de osos. Sin embargo, en partes marginales de territorios ocupados por osos, las referencias culturales a ellos son escasas. Por ejemplo, no se había reportado la representación de estos mamíferos en las culturas que se desarrollaron en Mesoamérica.

Trabajos arqueológicos recientes en el sitio de Tancama (Querétaro, México), ocupado por un grupo de afinidad Huasteca cuya mayor actividad se dio en el período clásico (entre 500 y 700 d.C.; fechas de C14), han revelado una escultura de barro asociada con restos de uno de los edificios principales, que representa un oso de cuerpo entero (se determinó como un oso negro,Ursus americanus, dado que es la única especie presente en el área). Además de la escultura, se encontraron vasijas y fragmentos cerámicos, excavados en otros edificios, que muestran rasgos diagnósticos de la cabeza de un oso.

El presente estudio analiza este primer y singular hallazgo para Mesoamérica, enfatizando su relevancia para la región. Se analizan las relaciones entre la efigie principal de oso como parte de un edificio y las numerosas vasijas con representaciones ursiformes, para explorar el posible significado cultural local de esta especie animal.
Occlusion of left main coronary artery presenting with ventricular fibrillation in teenagers: an unrecognised cause of sudden death?
Authors: Marshall Mayme , Balaji Seshadri
Published: July 2020

In young patients with unexplained ventricular fibrillation, coronary occlusion may be missed by echocardiogram and misinterpreted by CT. We report two patients presenting with ventricular fibrillation and initially negative workup, later identified to have occlusion of left main coronary artery. We demonstrate the importance of angiography to rule out coronary occlusion in patients with unexplained ventricular fibrillation.
Hepatic to azygos connection by autologous pericardial roll for Fontan completion
Authors: Shi Tao , Gao Zhan , Hua Zhongdong
Published: July 2020

Techniques for performing the Fontan completion procedure after Kawashima procedure have developed in recent years. This paper presents a case in which we performed an off-pump hepatic-to-azygos connection by autologous pericardial roll via thoracotomy as a modified Fontan completion. The operation wound was limited, and the short-term follow-up was satisfactory. Notably, it was found that the autologous pericardium might require a shorter period of anticoagulation treatment than what is needed for artificial prosthetic materials.
Bridging the Gap between Secondary and Higher STEM Education – the Case of STEM@school
Authors: De Meester Jolien , Boeve-de Pauw Jelle , Buyse Marie-Paule , Ceuppens Stijn , De Cock Mieke , De Loof Haydée , Goovaerts Leen , Hellinckx Luc , Knipprath Heidi , Struyf Annemie , Thibaut Lieve , Van de Velde Didier , Van Petegem Peter , Dehaene Wim
Published: July 2020

Our rapidly changing society needs highly-qualified STEM professionals (experts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) to develop solutions to the problems it is facing. Many of the students who graduate from a STEM programme in secondary education, however, opt out of STEM when enrolling in higher education, often due to a loss of interest. To ensure sufficiently high and qualified enrolment in higher STEM education, we need to bridge this gap between secondary and higher STEM education by showing our youngsters the relevance of science and technology to their personal life and environment. To this end, the project STEM@school promoted and studied the idea of integrated STEM in secondary education in Flanders, Belgium. In integrated STEM education, learning contents from the separate STEM courses are linked in an authentic way, as they often are in our environmental challenges. This approach encourages students as well as their teachers to acquire a robust understanding of STEM concepts, and a creative, inquisitive, and collaborative mindset. For the design of integrated STEM curricula, STEM@school united secondary-school STEM teachers and university researchers. This article elaborates on the principles, opportunities and challenges of the design and implementation of these curricula and discusses their promising effects on students’ conceptual understanding and attitudes towards STEM subjects. The article concludes with tips and tricks to get started with integrated STEM education in secondary schools.
Post-traumatic stress symptoms in an Italian cohort of subjects complaining occupational stress
Authors: Buselli Rodolfo , Carmassi Claudia , Corsi Martina , Baldanzi Sigrid , Battistini Gianmarco , Chiumiento Martina , Massimetti Gabriele , Dell’Osso Liliana , Cristaudo Alfonso
Published: July 2020

Objective

Work-related stress presents a significant impact on work performance and physical health. It has been associated with the onset of a multitude of symptoms. The main aim of this investigation is to better understand the impact of post-traumatic stress symptomatology, using a specific self-assessment questionnaire, in subjects experiencing occupational stress with the rationale to address the variegated symptoms expressed by this particular population in a post-traumatic dimensional perspective.

Methods

Authors collected socio-demographic, occupational, and clinical data. They utilized Trauma and Loss Spectrum Self Report (TALS-SR), a questionnaire investigating post-traumatic stress symptoms. The population size was 345 subjects who presented at the Occupational Health Department of a university hospital over a 3 years period (2016–2018).

Results

Data analysis revealed 33.9% of subjects who met post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) criteria. Gender distribution of this set was (36.4% female, 31% male). A family history or personal history of mental disorders were related to higher scores in almost all TALS-SR domains and were related, respectively, to higher scores of criterion B “intrusion symptoms” (P = .014), criterion D “negative alterations in cognitions and mood” (P = .023), and criterion E “arousal” (P = .033) of PTSD. Differences in TALS-SR scores also emerged based on age and gender.

Conclusions

PTSD symptoms manifest at a significant level in those who experience work-related stress. Personal background of individuals, both in terms of family and personal history for mental disorders, seems to increase their vulnerability to develop post-traumatic stress symptoms. This study suggests the importance of evaluating occupational stress from a post-traumatic stress perspective also at an early stage.
Differentiating effects of socio-economic factors on relative weight and nutritional status in Polish schoolchildren across intergenerational changes
Authors: Nowak-Szczepanska Natalia , Gomula Aleksandra , Koziel Slawomir
Published: July 2020

Objective:

The aim of this study was an assessment of the effects of urbanisation level, family size and parental education on body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) among Polish schoolchildren in cross-sectional surveys conducted between 1966 and 2012.

Design:

The analysis involved schoolchildren measured in four Polish Anthropological Surveys (1966, 1978, 1988 and 2012). Socio-economic factors involved: urbanisation level (city, town and village), family size (one child, two children, three children, four or more children), and father’s and mother’s education (lower and higher education).

Setting:

Regions in Poland – cities: Warsaw, Lodz and Wroclaw; towns: Bystrzyca Klodzka, Pinczow, Siemiatycze, Wolsztyn and their rural surroundings.

Participants:

A total sample consisted of 63 757 children (31 774 boys and 31 983 girls) aged 7–18 years.

Results:

Between 1966 and 1988, both BMI and MUAC had significantly higher values in children from cities, in families with one child and with higher parental education (P < 0·05). However, MUAC revealed significant differences between particular socio-economic groups more frequently than BMI. In 2012, urbanisation level and parental education ceased to show a differentiating effect on both indicators, while family size remained a significant social factor for both measures (BMI: P < 0·05; MUAC: P < 0·01).

Conclusions:

Since MUAC reflected socio-economic differences more frequently than BMI, it could be a more sensitive and reliable anthropometric measure revealing the effects of socio-economic factors on children’s nutritional status.
Social work in hospice and palliative care in Europe: Findings from an EAPC survey
Authors: Bitschnau Karl W. , Firth Pam , Wasner Maria
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Social work is considered to be a key player in Hospice and Palliative Care. To prove this claim, the Social Worker Task Force within the European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) decided to carry out a survey. The aim of this survey was to generate basic data and thus to create a basis for further development of Palliative Care Social Work (PCSW) in Europe.

Method

The online survey consisted of two parts: in Part 1, the 57 collective members of the EAPC were asked to fill in an online questionnaire containing questions about basic data. In Part 2, individual Palliative Care Social Workers (SWs) from all over Europe were asked to fill in another questionnaire with a focus on the basic conditions concerning their jobs as well, as on their tasks and roles.

Results

Thirty-two collective members of the EAPC completed the online questionnaire. SWs can be found in all of the Palliative Care settings, but there are considerable differences between the countries concerning the prevalence of SWs. Only five countries (20%) reported specialized qualification training in PCSW and just around half of the responding SWs had such a specialized training. The responding SWs (n = 360) were quite content with their working conditions. Tasks concerning patient and family and tasks concerning the interprofessional team were most prominent. There is a significant role overlap with other professions.

Significance of results

The study reveals a very mixed picture of PCSW in Europe. This could be due to the high adaptability of social work, which is to be as flexible as possible to the needs of its clients. However, significant patterns, similarities, and differences emerge. The present study may, therefore, serve as a basis for further in-depth studies.
Do Hispanics prefer to be full code at the end of life? The impact of palliative care consults on clarifying code status preferences and hospice referrals in Spanish-speaking patients
Authors: Kawai Fernando , Pan Cynthia X. , Zaravinos John , Maw Min Min , Lee Gary
Published: July 2020

Background

Hispanics often have disparities at the end of life. They are more likely to die full code and less likely to have discussions regarding prognosis and do not resuscitate (DNR)/do not intubate (DNI), despite studies showing Hispanic values comfort over the extension of life. Barriers to patient-centered care include language,socioeconomic status and health literacy.

Context

We evaluated the impact of palliative care (PC) consults on the change of code status and hospice referrals, comparing seriously ill Hispanic and non-Hispanic white patients.

Method

A retrospective cohort study of all white and Hispanic patients referred to the PC service of a county hospital from 2006 to 2012. We evaluated ethnicity, language, code status at admission and after PC consult, and hospice discharge. Chi-squared tests were used to analyze characteristics among three groups: non-Hispanic white, English-speaking Hispanic, and Spanish-speaking Hispanic patients.

Results

Of 925 patients, 511 (55%) were non-Hispanic white, 208 (23%) were English-speaking Hispanic, and 206 (22%) were Spanish-speaking Hispanic patients. On admission, there was no statistically significant difference in code status among the three groups (57%, 64%, and 59% were full code, respectively, p = 0.5). After PC consults, Spanish-speaking Hispanic patients were more likely to change their code status to DNR/DNI when compared with non-Hispanic white and English-speaking Hispanic patients (44% vs. 32% vs. 28%, p = 0.05). Spanish-speaking Hispanic patients were more likely to be discharged to hospice when compared with English-speaking Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites (33%, 29%, and 23%, respectively, p = 0.04).

Significance of results

Spanish-speaking Hispanic patients were more likely to change from full code to DNR/DNI compared with non-Hispanic white and English-speaking Hispanic patients, despite similar code status preferences on admission. They were also more likely to be discharged to hospice. PC consults may play an important role in helping patients to align their care with their values and may prevent unwanted aggressive interventions at the end of life.
Local Responses to a Global Pandemic: Women Mayors Lead the Way
Authors: Funk Kendall D.
Published: July 2020

Even before the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, was declared a pandemic, prominent women mayors in the United States enacted proactive and innovative policies to prevent local outbreaks and soften the social and economic repercussions. Several Black women mayors, in particular, have led the way in local pandemic response efforts. This article identifies four major features of these and other women mayors’ early responses. First, women mayors demonstrated proactive leadership even when faced with pushback. Second, these mayors advocated for transparent and evidence-based decision-making at all levels of government. Third, they enacted measures to protect vulnerable communities and reduce disparities. Fourth, they actively shared advice on best practices and lessons learned, and provided examples for other local leaders to follow. The article concludes by situating these responses in the larger research on gender and leadership and asks whether these women's actions are unique or part of a systematic trend of gendered responses to the pandemic.
Correlation between newborn size and gross fetal movement as counted by a fetal movement acceleration measurement recorder
Authors: Yatsuki Keita , Ryo Eiji , Morita Masayoshi , Seto Michiharu , Kamata Hideo , Yonaga Yuriko
Published: July 2020

The development of the fetal movement acceleration measurement (FMAM) recorder has enabled the accurate counting of gross fetal movements. The aim of the study was to investigate whether gross fetal movement is related to a newborn’s size. A total of 90 pregnant women who delivered singleton infant at term were recruited. Gross fetal movements were counted using an FMAM recorder during maternal sleep. The ratio of movement positive 10-s epochs to all epochs during one night was calculated as an index of fetal movement. Independent explanatory variables for the fetal movement index were selected from eight possibilities, that is, maternal age, gestational week, and the six physical measures of the newborn (height, weight, head circumference, chest circumference, Kaup index, and the ratio of head to chest circumference) with the stepwise regression procedure. The selected physical variables and the fetal movement index were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. A total of 2812.95 h from 423 night records were available. Gestational weeks and weight of the newborn were selected as the significant independent variables. Multiple regression analysis revealed that newborn weight had a positive correlation with the fetal movement index (p < 0.0001). The multiple regression equation was “The fetal movement index (%) = 34.9989−0.9088 × gestational weeks + 0.0033 × newborn weight (g).” A person’s physical ability and lifetime activity level may originate from fetal health. This study may provide a new way of looking at the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease theory.
Design and Psychometric Analysis of the Stressors and Modulators of Gestational Stress Inventory (SMGSI)
Authors: González-Ochoa Raquel , Calleja Nazira , Hernández-Pozo María Rocío , Campos-Uscanga Yolanda , Barranca-Enríquez Antonia , Romo-González Tania
Published: July 2020

Gestational stress is associated with many maternal and child complications, however, this association must be taken with care, since there are studies that find inconsistent results between stress measures and maternal complications. It is believed that the lack of convergence is due to the way in which gestational stress is evaluated.

The aim of the present study was to design and validate an instrument based on a bio-psycho-social model of gestational stress. The design and validation process of the inventory was divided into four phases: (a) Construction of the items bank and content validity, (b) construct validity, (c) inventory reliability and (d) convergent and discriminant validity with psychometric instruments that have been used in other investigations to evaluate gestational stress.

A valid and reliable Stressors and Modulators of Gestational Stress Inventory (SMGSI) conformed by two scales was developed: (a) Gestational stressors, which is formed by two factors, the psychological stressors and social stressors with a variance of 48.5% and 51.8% and a reliability of .79 and .67, respectively; and (b) gestational stress modulators integrated by 8 items that explain 55.2% of the variance and with a reliability of .92. In conclusion, a valid and reliable tool was obtained that measures gestational stress from a bio-psycho-social perspective. This inventory allows for the identification of allostatic and pantostatic stress, making it useful as a diagnostic tool to prevent maternal and childhood complications that are associated with chronic gestational stress.
Germination ecology of giant chickweed (Myosoton aquaticum)
Authors: Wang Hengzhi , Wang Lipeng , Bai Shuang , Guo Wenlei , Wang Jinxin , Liu Weitang
Published: July 2020

Giant chickweed [Myosoton aquaticum (L.) Moench], a troublesome broadleaf weed species, is widespread in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) fields in China. However, limited information is available on its germination and seedling emergence ecology. Thus, three M. aquaticum populations (JS, HN, and AH) from different geographic regions were studied under laboratory conditions to determine the effects of different environmental factors on germination or seedling emergence. The seeds germinated at a relatively wide constant temperature range of 5 to 25 C; however, the optimal temperature for germination varied among the populations. Compared with constant temperatures, fluctuating temperatures with the same mean significantly improved the final germination of all populations. Light was not required for germination. The seeds germinated under a wide pH range of 3 to 10, and the optimum pH was 6 to 7, with a final germination percentage of 81% to 95%. The seeds of all populations showed similar sensitivities to osmotic potential and similar high tolerances of saline conditions. The seedling emergence of all populations decreased with increasing burial depth, and no emergence was observed when the seeds were buried more than 3 cm, but the AH population showed higher sensitivity to burial depth than the others. The results generated from this study will contribute to the development of integrated M. aquaticum management strategies for winter wheat fields in China, and deep plowing and late sowing of autumn-sown wheat are suggested for managing M. aquaticum, as it showed lower germination at a low temperature and under relatively deep burial.
Inferior vena cava filter – comprehensive overview of current indications, techniques, complications and retrieval rates
Authors: Li Xin , Haddadin Ihab , McLennan Gordon , Farivar Behzad , Staub Daniel , Beck Avi , Thompson Dustin , Partovi Sasan
Published: July 2020

Summary: Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter has been used to manage patients with pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis. Its ease of use and the expansion of relative indications have led to a dramatic increase in IVC filter placement. However, IVC filters have been associated with a platitude of complications. Therefore, there exists a need to examine the current indications and identify the patient population at risk. In this paper, we comprehensively reviewed the current indications and techniques of IVC filter placement. Further, we examined the various complications associated with either permanent or retrievable IVC filters. Lastly, we examined the current data on filter retrieval.
Delineating the Continuum of Dissolved Organic Matter in Temperate River Networks
Authors: Casas‐Ruiz Joan P. , Spencer Robert G. M. , Guillemette François , von Schiller Daniel , Obrador Biel , Podgorski David C. , Kellerman Anne M. , Hartmann Jens , Gómez‐Gener Lluís , Sabater Sergi , Marcé Rafael
Published: July 2020

The origin and reactivity of dissolved organic matter (DOM) have received attention for decades due to the key role DOM plays in global carbon cycling and the ecology of aquatic systems. However, DOM dynamics in river networks remain unresolved, hampered by the lack of data integrating the spatial and temporal dimensions inherent to riverine ecosystems. Here we examine the longitudinal patterns of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration and DOM chemical diversity along a temperate river network under different hydrological conditions, encompassing small headwater streams to the river mouth and base flow to storm events. We show that, during nonstorm conditions, the concentration of DOC and the chemical diversity of DOM exhibit their maxima in the middle section of the network, depicting a bell‐shaped pattern along the river continuum. In contrast, DOM shows a homogeneous longitudinal pattern during storm events, with highly concentrated and diverse DOM along the river network. We posit that these emerging patterns result from changes in the relative influence of catchment versus in‐stream biogeochemical processes along the river continuum and that the degree of influence is modulated by river network hydrology. Based on these findings we put forward the “Bending DOM Concept,” a new conceptual framework around which testable hypotheses on the spatiotemporal dynamics of DOM and the functioning of temperate river networks may be formulated.
Great Plains Plants Bounce Back After Large Wildfires
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: July 2020

An analysis of nearly 1,400 wildfires suggests that some postfire techniques used to help restore vegetation may be unnecessary.
Highly stretchable and reliable graphene oxide-reinforced liquid gating membranes for tunable gas/liquid transport
Authors: Lv Wei , Sheng Zhizhi , Zhu Yinglin , Liu Jing , Lei Yi , Zhang Rongrong , Chen Xinyu , Hou Xu
Published: July 2020

The ability of membrane technologies to dynamically tune the transport behavior for gases and liquids is critical for their applications. Although various methods have been developed to improve membrane success, tradeoffs still exist among their properties, such as permeability, selectivity, fouling resistance, and stability, which can greatly affect the performance of membranes. Existing elastomeric membrane designs can provide antifracture properties and flexibility; however, these designs still face certain challenges, such as low tensile strength and reliability. Additionally, researchers have not yet thoroughly developed membranes that can avoid fouling issues while realizing precise dynamic control over the transport substances. In this study, we show a versatile strategy for preparing graphene oxide-reinforced elastomeric liquid gating membranes that can finely modulate and dynamically tune the sorting of a wide range of gases and liquids under constant applied pressures. Moreover, the produced membranes exhibit antifouling properties and are adaptable to different length scales, pressures, and environments. The filling of graphene oxide in the thermoplastic polyurethane matrix enhances the composites through hydrogen bonds. Experiments and theoretical calculations are carried out to demonstrate the stability of our system. Our membrane exhibits good stretchability, recovery, and durability due to the elastic nature of the solid matrix and dynamic nature of the gating liquid. Dynamic control over the transport of gases and liquids is achieved through our optimized interfacial design and controllable pore deformation, which is induced by mechanical stimuli. Our strategy will create new opportunities for many applications, such as gas-involved chemical reactions, multiphase separation, microfluidics, multiphase microreactors, and particulate material synthesis.
In vitro and in vivo investigation of osteogenic properties of self-contained phosphate-releasing injectable purine-crosslinked chitosan-hydroxyapatite constructs
Authors: Jahan Kaushar , Manickam Garthiga , Tabrizian Maryam , Murshed Monzur
Published: July 2020

Bone fracture repair is a multifaceted, coordinated physiological process that requires new bone formation and resorption, eventually returning the fractured bone to its original state. Currently, a variety of different approaches are pursued to accelerate the repair of defective bones, which include the use of 'gold standard' autologous bone grafts. However, such grafts may not be readily available, and procedural complications may result in undesired outcomes. Considering the ease of use and tremendous customization potentials, synthetic materials may become a more suitable alternative of bone grafts. In this study, we examined the osteogenic potential of guanosine 5′-diphosphate-crosslinked chitosan scaffolds with the incorporation of hydroxyapatite, with or without pyrophosphatase activity, both in vitro and in vivo. First, scaffolds embedded with cells were characterized for cell morphology, viability, and attachment. The cell-laden scaffolds were found to significantly enhance proliferation for up to threefold, double alkaline phosphatase activity and osterix expression, and increase calcium phosphate deposits in vitro. Next, chitosan scaffolds were implanted at the fracture site in a mouse model of intramedullary rod-fixed tibial fracture. Our results showed increased callus formation at the fracture site with the scaffold carrying both hydroxyapatite and pyrophosphatase in comparison to the control scaffolds lacking both pyrophosphatase and hydroxyapatite, or pyrophosphatase alone. These results indicate that the pyrophosphatase-hydroxyapatite composite scaffold has a promising capacity to facilitate bone fracture healing.
High-throughput screening reveals higher synergistic effect of MEK inhibitor combinations in colon cancer spheroids
Authors: Folkesson Evelina , Niederdorfer Barbara , Nakstad Vu To , Thommesen Liv , Klinkenberg Geir , Lægreid Astrid , Flobak Åsmund
Published: July 2020

Drug combinations have been proposed to combat drug resistance, but putative treatments are challenged by low bench-to-bed translational efficiency. To explore the effect of cell culture format and readout methods on identification of synergistic drug combinations in vitro, we studied response to 21 clinically relevant drug combinations in standard planar (2D) layouts and physiologically more relevant spheroid (3D) cultures of HCT-116, HT-29 and SW-620 cells. By assessing changes in viability, confluency and spheroid size, we were able to identify readout- and culture format-independent synergies, as well as synergies specific to either culture format or readout method. In particular, we found that spheroids, compared to 2D cultures, were generally both more sensitive and showed greater synergistic response to combinations involving a MEK inhibitor. These results further shed light on the importance of including more complex culture models in order to increase the efficiency of drug discovery pipelines.
Author Correction: High resolution and sensitivity gamma camera with active septa. A first Monte Carlo study
Authors: Ilisie Victor , Moliner Laura , Oliver Sandra , Sánchez Filomeno , González Antonio J. , Seimetz Michael , Rodríguez-Álvarez Maria J. , Benlloch Jose Maria
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Cross-site and cross-platform variability of automated patch clamp assessments of drug effects on human cardiac currents in recombinant cells
Authors: Kramer James , Himmel Herbert M. , Lindqvist Anders , Stoelzle-Feix Sonja , Chaudhary Khuram W. , Li Dingzhou , Bohme Georg Andrees , Bridgland-Taylor Matthew , Hebeisen Simon , Fan Jingsong , Renganathan Muthukrishnan , Imredy John , Humphries Edward S. A. , Brinkwirth Nina , Strassmaier Tim , Ohtsuki Atsushi , Danker Timm , Vanoye Carlos , Polonchuk Liudmila , Fermini Bernard , Pierson Jennifer Beck , Gintant Gary
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Aerobic Oxidation Reactions Using Metal-based Heterogeneous Systems
Authors: Valange S. , Védrine J. C.
Published: July 2020

This chapter deals with the use and development of heterogeneous non-precious metal oxide-based catalysts for aerobic oxidation reactions in gas–solid and liquid–solid phases. The main solid catalysts from transition metal ions (Mn, Cu, Fe, V, Ce, Nd, Mo, W) are described. Many examples are given about the reactions, catalytic performances, catalysts used and major industrial processes, either existing at present using petroleum-based raw materials or future processes using biomass-derived raw materials. It concerns selective oxidation and ammoxidation (NH3 + O2) reactions of alkanes to alkenes; alkanes to carboxylic acids, aldehydes and nitriles; olefins to carboxylic aldehydes and acids and aromatics to the corresponding acids or nitriles. Total oxidation reactions for depollution treatment and combustion are also briefly presented regarding atmospheric pollutants, such as industrial volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some reaction mechanisms (radical-type or Mars and van Krevelen-type) along with concerns on the structure and size of active sites are discussed. Different reactor types, including packed bed, membrane and moving bed technology, are discussed depending on the intended reaction, as well as considerations on physical aspects of the solid catalysts, related to thermal and electrical conductivities, attrition resistance, deactivation and regeneration of the catalysts.
Coupled electron and proton transfer in the piperidine drug metabolism pathway by the active species of cytochromes P450
Authors: Fu Zhiqiang , Yang Lili , Sun Dongru , Qu Zexing , Zhao Yufen , Gao Jiali , Wang Yong
Published: July 2020

KS-DFT and MSDFT studies reveal a novel CEPT step that triggers ring contraction of piperidines by P450.
Single-particle spectroscopy and defocused imaging of anisotropic gold nanorods by total internal reflection scattering microscopy
Authors: Lee Jaeran , Kim Geun Wan , Ha Ji Won
Published: July 2020

Total internal reflection scattering (TIRS) microscopy provided higher S/N ratio and more accurate angular information of gold nanorods.
Green light active photocatalyst for complete oxidation of organic molecules
Authors: Yang Yue , Yamaguchi Akira , Jiang Haoyang , van der Kooy Annabel , Okunaka Sayuri , Hosogai Mariko , Tokudome Hiromasa , Miyauchi Masahiro
Published: July 2020

Fe(iii) nanoclusters grafted BiVO4 photocatalyst completely decomposes organic molecules into carbon dioxide even under green light.
Synthesis and [2+2]-photodimerisation of monothiomaleimide functionalised linear and brush-like polymers
Authors: Aljuaid Mohammed , Liarou Evelina , Town James , Baker James R. , Haddleton David M. , Wilson Paul
Published: July 2020

The first example of [2+2]-photocycloaddition of monothiomaleimide-functionalised linear and brush-like polymers is demonstrated, with reactions complete within 10 min upon irradiation with UV light (200 W, 320–390 nm).
Mixing behaviour of Pluronics with gemini surfactant/plasmid DNA condensates: effect of Pluronic composition
Authors: Shortall S. M. , Marangoni D. G. , Wettig S. D.
Published: July 2020

Non-ideal mixing behaviour between Pluronics and pre-formed 16-3-16/plasmid DNA complexes depends on solution composition but primarily poly(propylene oxide) block length.
Anisotropic relaxation in NADH excited states studied by polarization-modulation pump–probe transient spectroscopy
Authors: Gorbunova Ioanna A. , Sasin Maxim E. , Beltukov Yaroslav M. , Semenov Alexander A. , Vasyutinskii Oleg S.
Published: July 2020

Fast anisotropic relaxation in excited NADH in ethanol–water solutions at various ethanol concentrations was studied by a novel polarization-modulation transient method.
Heterobimetallic complexes of IrM (M = FeII, CoII, and NiII) core and bridging 2-(diphenylphosphino)pyridine: electronic structure and electrochemical behavior
Authors: Cherepakhin Valeriy , Hellman Ashley , Lan Zhenzhuo , Mallikarjun Sharada Shaama , Williams Travis J.
Published: July 2020

Novel heterobimetallic complexes were studied by spectroscopic, electrochemical, and computational methods to understand the nature of iridium-metal bonding.
Ultra-low temperature carbon (di)oxide hydrogenation catalyzed by hybrid ruthenium–nickel nanocatalysts: towards sustainable methane production
Authors: Siudyga Tomasz , Kapkowski Maciej , Bartczak Piotr , Zubko Maciej , Szade Jacek , Balin Katarzyna , Antoniotti Sylvain , Polanski Jaroslaw
Published: July 2020

Syngas to methane conversion can be attained in flow at temperatures starting from −7 °C with a hybrid bimetallic Ru/Ni catalyst. In turn, the ultra-low temperature effect cannot be observed for the Re/Ni and Pd/Ni combinations.
The Art in Science of MicroTAS 2019
Authors: Cooksey Gregory A.
Published: July 2020

Greg Cooksey (left) and Maria Southall (right) present the Art in Science award to winner Joseph de Rutte at the RSC booth.
A perspective on oxide-supported single-atom catalysts
Authors: Zhou Junyi , Xu Zhen , Xu Meijia , Zhou Xiong , Wu Kai
Published: July 2020

To explore oxide-supported single-atom catalysts (SACs) at the atomic level, a recently developed surface free energy approach may help fabricate well-defined SACs to tackle some key issues in the future.
Investigation on modified polyether as an efficient CO2 thickener
Authors: Zhang Yongfei , Zhu Zewen , Tang Jun
Published: July 2020

Based on the CO2-philic silicon group and the CO2-phobic aryl group, silicon modified polyether exhibits both high solubility in carbon dioxide and a high thickening ability toward CO2.
A first-principles study on the optoelectronic properties of mixed-halide double perovskites Cs2TiI6−xBrx
Authors: Liu Diwen , Zha Wenying , Yuan Rusheng , Chen Jianming , Sa Rongjian
Published: July 2020

All-inorganic double perovskites as promising photovoltaic materials have received great attention in recent years.
Recent advances in the catalytic asymmetric reactions of thiazolone derivatives
Authors: Song Yong-Xing , Du Da-Ming
Published: July 2020

This review highlights the recent advances in catalytic asymmetric reactions of thiazolone derivatives, including Michael additions, Mannich reactions as well as various cascade reactions.
Thermoelectric properties of n-type half-Heusler NbCoSn with heavy-element Pt substitution
Authors: Serrano-Sánchez Federico , Luo Ting , Yu Junjie , Xie Wenjie , Le Congcong , Auffermann Gudrun , Weidenkaff Anke , Zhu Tiejun , Zhao Xinbing , Alonso José A. , Gault Baptiste , Felser Claudia , Fu Chenguang
Published: July 2020

Heavy-element Pt substitution and post-annealing promote the thermoelectric performance enhancement of n-type NbCoSn half-Heusler compound.
Electrochemical and compositional characterization of solid interphase layers in an interface-modified solid-state Li–sulfur battery
Authors: Pervez Syed Atif , Vinayan Bhaghavathi P. , Cambaz Musa Ali , Melinte Georgian , Diemant Thomas , Braun Tobias , Karkera Guruprakash , Behm R. Jürgen , Fichtner M.
Published: July 2020

Formation of nano-sized interphase layers, containing organic and inorganic species, in an interface modified Li–sulfur solid-state battery.