bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus successfully treated with probiotics
Authors: Cardinali Néstor , Bauman Carlos , Rodriguez Ayala Facundo , Grau Roberto
Published: September 2020

The gut microbiota, and particularly probiotic bacteria, has emerged as a promising and novel intervention to fight the looming worldwide diabetes epidemic when combined with the appropriate medication. Herein, we report two cases of patient with type 2 diabetes refractory to conventional therapy that showed notable improvement after probiotic intervention.
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism due to compound heterozygous mutations TACR3 in siblings
Authors: Valsassina Rita , Briosa Filipa , Soares Joana , Amorim Marta , Limbert Catarina
Published: September 2020

The authors present a new association of two heterozygous TACR3 mutations (p.Arg230His and p.Trp275*) responsible for a clinical trait of normosmic congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in a family.
Mesoporous Silica Supported Perovskite Oxides for Low Temperature Thermochemical CO2 Conversion
Authors: Brower Jeremy C. , Hare Bryan J. , Bhethanabotla Venkat R. , Kuhn John N.
Published: September 2020

In this study, high yields of CO are reported from CO2 using the silica (SiO2) supported perovskite oxide, La0.75Sr0.25FeO3 (LSF), composites in the reverse water gas shift chemical looping (RWGS‐CL) process. XRD patterns of materials formed upon adding SBA‐15 to the perovskite sol‐gel precursor solution indicated successful formation of an orthorhombic perovskite oxide structure in the composites. The total surface area increased by ∼300 % with the addition of 50 % LSF to SBA‐15 by mass and surface accessibility of perovskite oxide crystallites was verified by CO2 chemisorption and XPS measurements. Composite materials achieved up to a factor of 10 increases in CO yields (∼3.5 vs 0.35 mmol CO/gLSF) compared to pure LSF through six consecutive RWGS‐CL cycles at 700 °C. Following these RWGS‐CL cycles, XRD Scherrer analyses showed that the perovskite oxide in the composite material decreased in crystallite size. This approach to synthesis of supported perovskite oxides is expected to be valuable for large‐scale CO2 conversion by RWGS‐CL.
Influence of Amide Connectivity on the Hydrogen‐Bond‐Directed Self‐Assembly of [n.n]Paracyclophanes
Authors: Henderson Will R. , Kumar Ajeet , Abboud Khalil A. , Castellano Ronald K.
Published: September 2020

Reported here is the synthesis and self‐assembly characterization of [n.n]paracyclophanes ([n.n]pCps, n=2, 3) equipped with anilide hydrogen bonding units. These molecules differ from previous self‐assembling [n.n]paracyclophanes ([n.n]pCps) in the connectivity of their amide hydrogen bonding units (C‐centered/carboxamide vs. N‐centered/anilide). This subtle change results in a ≈30‐fold increase in the elongation constant for the [2.2]pCp‐4,7,12,15‐tetraanilide ([2.2]pCpNTA) compared to previously reported [2.2]pCp‐4,7,12,15‐tetracarboxamide ([2.2]pCpTA), and a ≈300‐fold increase in the elongation constant for the [3.3]pCp‐5,8,14,17‐tetraanilide ([3.3]pCpNTA) compared to previously reported [3.3]pCp‐5,8,14,17‐tetracarboxamide ([3.3]pCpTA). The [n.n]pCpNTA monomers also represent the reversal of a previously reported trend in solution‐phase assembly strength when comparing [2.2]pCpTA and [3.3]pCpTA monomers. The origins of the assembly differences are geometric changes in the association between [n.n]pCpNTA monomers—revealed by computations and X‐ray crystallography—resulting in a more favorable slipped stacking of the intermolecular π‐surfaces ([n.n]pCpNTA vs. [n.n]pCpTA), and a more complementary H‐bonding geometry ([3.3]pCpNTA vs. [2.2]pCpNTA).
The relationship between baseline diastolic dysfunction and postimplantation invasive hemodynamics with transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Bavry Anthony A. , Okuno Taishi , Aalaei‐Andabili Seyed Hossein , Kumbhani Dharam J. , Stortecky Stefan , Asami Masahiko , Lanz Jonas , Windecker Stephan , Pilgrim Thomas
Published: September 2020

Background

Abnormal invasive hemodynamics after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is associated with poor survival; however, the mechanism is unknown.

Hypothesis

Diastolic dysfunction will modify the association between invasive hemodynamics postTAVR and mortality.

Methods

Patients with echocardiographic assessment of diastolic function and postTAVR invasive hemodynamic assessment were eligible for the present analysis. Diastology was classified as normal or abnormal (Stages 1 to 3). The aorto‐ventricular index (AVi) was calculated as the difference between the aortic diastolic and the left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure divided by the heart rate. AVi was categorized as abnormal (AVi < 0.5 mmHg/beats per minute) or normal (≥ 0.5 mmHg/beats per minute).

Results

From 1339 TAVR patients, 390 were included in the final analysis. The mean follow‐up was 3.3 ± 1.7 years. Diastolic dysfunction was present in 70.9% of the abnormal vs 55.1% of the normal AVi group (P < .001). All‐cause mortality was 46% in the abnormal vs 31% in the normal AVi group (P < .001). Adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for AVi < 0.5 mmHg/beats per minute vs AVi ≥0.5 mmHg/beats per minute for intermediate‐term mortality was (HR = 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1 to 2.1, P = .017). This association was the same among those with normal diastolic function and those with diastolic dysfunction (P for interaction = .35).

Conclusion

Diastolic dysfunction is prevalent among TAVR patients. Low AVi is an independent predictor for poor intermediate‐term survival, irrespective of co‐morbid diastolic dysfunction.
Broad‐Spectrum Flavivirus Inhibitors: a Medicinal Chemistry Point of View
Authors: Felicetti Tommaso , Manfroni Giuseppe , Cecchetti Violetta , Cannalire Rolando
Published: September 2020

Infections by flaviviruses, such as Dengue, West Nile, Yellow Fever and Zika viruses, represent a growing risk for global health. There are vaccines only for few flaviviruses while no effective treatments are available. Flaviviruses share epidemiological, structural, and ecologic features and often different viruses can co‐infect the same host. Therefore, the identification of broad‐spectrum inhibitors is highly desirable either for known flaviviruses or for viruses that likely will emerge in the future.

Strategies targeting both virus and host factors have been pursued to identify broad‐spectrum antiflaviviral agents. In this review, we describe the most promising and best characterized targets and their relative broad‐spectrum inhibitors, identified by drug repurposing/libraries screenings and by focused medicinal chemistry campaigns. Finally, we discuss about future strategies to identify new broad‐spectrum antiflavivirus agents.
Age is just a number, the wrong number
Authors: Bal Susan , Costa Luciano J.
Published: September 2020

Despite the evolution of the therapeutic landscape of multiple myeloma, autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHCT) continues to be complementary to novel agents, even among older patients. In this issue of Cancer, Munshi et al report the largest study supporting the role of AHCT as an effective consolidation strategy across all age groups. The future incorporation of individualized, response‐ and frailty‐adapted treatment paradigms will define the future of myeloma therapy for older adults.
Prognostic impact of t(11;14) in multiple myeloma: Black and white or shades of gray?
Authors: Chakraborty Rajshekhar , Lentzsch Suzanne
Published: September 2020

In this issue of Cancer, Badar et al report that African Americans with translocation t(11;14) multiple myeloma have excellent outcomes if they undergo early autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation followed by posttransplant maintenance, with the overall survival superior to White t(11;14) patients on multivariable analysis. Ongoing clinical trials on venetoclax‐based combination therapies in multiple myeloma should actively recruit minority populations such as Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics to identify any differential impact on outcomes.
Thorough QT/QTc Study Evaluating the Effect of Macimorelin on Cardiac Safety Parameters in Healthy Participants
Authors: Lissy Michael , Demmel Valentin , Sachse Richard , Ammer Nicola , Kelepouris Nicky , Ostrow Vlady
Published: September 2020

Macimorelin is an orally active growth hormone secretagogue indicated for the diagnosis of adult growth hormone deficiency. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of macimorelin on the baseline and placebo‐corrected mean QT interval using Fridericia's formula (ΔΔQTcF). Secondary objectives were to determine QTcF for moxifloxacin; evaluate the effects of macimorelin on other cardiac intervals (PR, QRS, RR), heart rate, and electrocardiogram morphology parameters; characterize pharmacokinetics; and assess safety of macimorelin. The phase 1 thorough QT/QTc study, designed according to the International Council for Harmonisation E14 guideline, was a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, 3‐way complete crossover study comparing the effect of macimorelin 2.0 mg/kg with placebo and moxifloxacin 400 mg (positive control). Data were collected over a 3‐month span from male (n=36) and female participants (n=24) aged 18 to 55 years with body mass index between 18.5 and 30.0 kg/m2. Fifty‐six participants received all 3 treatments. The ΔΔQTcF for macimorelin showed a prolongation with a maximum mean value of 9.61 milliseconds (2‐sided 90% confidence interval, 7.81 milliseconds and 11.41 milliseconds) at 4 hours after dosing. The 2‐sided 90% confidence interval of this value also exceeded the 10 millisecond threshold at 3 hours after dosing. Assay sensitivity was confirmed with moxifloxacin. Other electrocardiogram parameters evaluated were not influenced by macimorelin. Macimorelin did not raise other safety concerns and was well tolerated. In summary, a single supratherapeutic dose of macimorelin prolonged cardiac repolarization according to the regulatory guideline.
Impaired Clearance From the Brain Increases the Brain Exposure to Metoclopramide in Elderly Subjects
Authors: Bauer Martin , Bamminger Karsten , Pichler Verena , Weber Maria , Binder Simon , Maier‐Salamon Alexandra , Tahir Ammar , Jäger Walter , Haslacher Helmuth , Tournier Nicolas , Hacker Marcus , Zeitlinger Markus , Langer Oliver
Published: September 2020

The antiemetic and gastroprokinetic drug metoclopramide is a weak substrate of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) efflux transporter P‐gp and displays central nervous system (CNS) side effects (i.e., extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia) caused by dopamine D2 receptor blockade in the basal ganglia. These side effects occur with a higher incidence in elderly people. We used positron emission tomography to assess the brain distribution of [11C]metoclopramide in young (n = 11, 26 ± 3 years) and elderly (n = 7, 68 ± 9 years) healthy men both after administration of a microdose (9 ± 7 µg) and a microdose co‐injected with a therapeutic dose of unlabeled metoclopramide (10 mg). For both doses, elderly subjects had a significantly higher total volume of distribution (VT) of [11C]metoclopramide in the basal ganglia than young subjects (microdose: +26%, therapeutic dose: +41%). Increases in VT (= K1/k2) were caused by significant decreases in the transfer rate constant of [11C]metoclopramide from brain into plasma (k2, microdose: −18%, therapeutic dose: −30%), whereas the distributional clearance from plasma into brain (K1) remained unaltered. This reduction in the clearance of [11C]metoclopramide (k2) from the brains of elderly subjects may be caused by an age‐related decrease in the activity of P‐gp at the BBB and may contribute to the higher incidence of CNS side effects of metoclopramide in the aged population. Our data suggest that an age‐associated decrease in the clearance properties of the BBB may modulate the CNS effects or side effects of clinically used P‐gp substrates.
Composite restorations placed in non‐carious cervical lesions—Which cavity preparation is clinically reliable?
Authors: Lührs Anne‐Katrin , Jacker‐Guhr Silke , Günay Hüsamettin , Herrmann Peggy
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this in‐vivo study was to evaluate the clinical performance of restorations placed in non‐carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), using different cavity preparation designs, after 7.7 years. A total of 85 NCCLs with coronal margins in enamel and cervical margins in dentin were randomly assigned to the following treatment protocols: dentin surface cleaning, dentin surface roughening with round bur plus flowable composite, dentin surface roughening/cervical groove preparation with round bur, dentin surface roughening/cervical groove preparation with round bur plus flowable composite. After enamel beveling and selective enamel etching, the defects were restored with composite. The restorations were assessed by two independent, calibrated and blinded investigators, using modified USPHS criteria. At 7 years (7.7 (± 0.35)), a total of 64 restorations (75.3%) were available for follow‐up examination. The total retention rate, irrespective of the test groups, was 82.8%. Restorations placed without any preparation showed the highest loss rate (27.8%). Esthetic appearance, marginal adaptation, anatomic form and marginal discoloration did not differ significantly between the groups. Composites are long‐term stable materials for restoring NCCLs. Restorations placed without any dentin preparation (cavity cleaning only) showed the highest loss rate.
Grappling with complex ideas: physical education, physical literacy, physical activity, sport and play in one professional learning initiative
Authors: Petrie Kirsten , Pope Clive , Powell Darren
Published: September 2020

Teacher professional learning provides opportunities to enhance understandings and practices for those directly involved in children’s learning. The expectations placed on providers of professional learning are frequently shaped by mandates beyond their control and or expertise. In this paper, we examine how the complex set of philosophies framing Sport New Zealand’s Play.sport initiative, a school‐based programme to enhance experiences in Physical Education (PE), Physical Activity (PA), Physical Literacy (PL), play and sport for young people, were understood and enacted by professional learning providers. The implementation framework centred on a workforce of Facilitators, Mentors and Activators providing professional learning in participating schools. Empirical evidence was gathered from interviews, field/meeting notes and observations to illuminate how the workforce consistently grappled with layers of complexity required to understand and enact philosophical and policy mandates associated with PE, PA, PL, sport and play. Our findings demonstrate the need to reconsider the delivery of professional learning and development initiatives. We conclude by reflecting on how our work as an academic community, undertaken with an intention of enhancing practices in PE, may be unintentionally increasing complexity and confusion.
Nearly unbiased estimator of contemporaryNe/Nbased on kinship relationships
Authors: Akita Tetsuya
Published: September 2020

This study develops a nearly unbiased estimator of the ratio of the contemporary effective mother size to the census size in a population, as a proxy of the ratio of contemporary effective size (or effective breeding size) to census size (Ne/NorNb/N). The proposed estimator is based on both known mother–offspring (MO) and maternal‐sibling (MS) relationships observed within the same cohort, in which sampled individuals in the cohort probably share MO relationships with sampled mothers. The rationale is that the frequency of MO and MS pairs contains information regarding the contemporary effective mother size and the (mature) census size, respectively. Therefore, the estimator can be obtained only from genetic data. We also evaluate the performance of the estimator by running an individual‐based model. The results of this study provide the following: (a) parameter range for satisfying the unbiasedness, and (b) guidance for sample sizes to ensure the required accuracy and precision, especially when the order of the ratio is available. Furthermore, the results demonstrate the usefulness of a sibship assignment method for genetic monitoring, providing insights for interpreting environmental and/or anthropological factors fluctuatingNe/N(orNb/N), especially in the context of conservation biology and wildlife management.
Lake productivity and waterbird functional diversity across geographic and environmental gradients in temperate China
Authors: Zhang Yamian , Tan Wenzhuo , Zeng Qing , Tian Haitao , Jia Yifei , Lei Guangchun , Wen Li
Published: September 2020

Geographical gradients in species diversity have long fascinated biogeographers and ecologists. However, the extent and generality of the effects of the important factors governing functional diversity (FD) patterns are still debated, especially for the freshwater domain. We examined the relationship between lake productivity and functional diversity of waterbirds sampled from 35 lakes and reservoirs in northern China with a geographic coverage of over 5 million km2. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to explore the causal relationships between geographic position, climate, lake productivity, and waterbird FD. We found unambiguous altitudinal and longitudinal gradients in lake productivity and waterbird FD, which were strongly mediated by local environmental factors. Specifically, we found (a) lake productivity increased northeast and decreased with altitude. The observed geographic and altitudinal gradients were driven by climatic conditions and nutrient availability, which collectively explained 93% of the variations in lake productivity; (b) waterbird FD showed similar geographic and altitudinal gradients; the environmental factors which had direct and/or indirect effects on these gradients included climate and lake area, which collectively explained more than 39% of the variation in waterbird FD; and 3) a significant (p = .029) causality between lake productivity and waterbird FD was confirmed. Nevertheless, the causality link was relatively weak in comparison with climate and lake area (the standardized path coefficient was 0.55, 0.23, and 0.03 for climate, lake area, and productivity, respectively). Our study demonstrates how the application of multivariate technique (e.g., SEM) enables the illustration of complex causal paths in ecosystems, enhancing mechanistic explanations that underlie the observed broadscale biodiversity gradients.
Lizard predation by spiders: A review from the Neotropical and Andean regions
Authors: Reyes‐Olivares Claudio , Guajardo‐Santibáñez Andrés , Segura Bernardo , Zañartu Nicolás , Penna Mario , Labra Antonieta
Published: September 2020

Vertebrate predation by invertebrates has been classically underexplored and thus underestimated, despite the fact that many arthropods consume vertebrates. To shed some light on the relevance that spider predation may have upon lizards in the Neotropical and Andean regions, we compiled the available information in the literature on this trophic interaction. We found 50 reports of spiders consuming lizards in these regions, and the 88% of these were from the Neotropical region. Spiders belong to eight families, but Ctenidae and Theraphosidae were the most frequently reported predators. Lizards belong to 12 families, and the most commonly consumed species corresponded to the families Dactyloidae (all Anolis lizards), Gymnophthalmidae, and Sphaerodactylidae. Data suggest trophic spider–lizard associations between Ctenidae and Dactyloidae, followed by Theraphosidae and Liolaemidae. The body sizes of the spiders and lizards showed a positive relationship, and spiders were smaller than their prey. We conclude that various spider taxa can be considered lizard predators and they may be ecologically important in the Neotropical and Andean regions. However, spiders of prime predation relevance seem to be those of the Ctenidae and Theraphosidae families.
Transient top‐down and bottom‐up effects of resources pulsed to multiple trophic levels
Authors: McCary Matthew A. , Phillips Joseph S. , Ramiadantsoa Tanjona , Nell Lucas A. , McCormick Amanda R. , Botsch Jamieson C.
Published: September 2020

Pulsed fluxes of organisms across ecosystem boundaries can exert top‐down and bottom‐up effects in recipient food webs, through both direct effects on the subsidized trophic levels and indirect effects on other components of the system. While previous theoretical and empirical studies demonstrate the influence of allochthonous subsidies on bottom‐up and top‐down processes, understanding how these forces act in conjunction is still limited, particularly when an allochthonous resource can simultaneously subsidize multiple trophic levels. Using the Lake Mývatn region in Iceland as an example system of allochthony and its potential effects on multiple trophic levels, we analyzed a mathematical model to evaluate how pulsed subsidies of aquatic insects affect the dynamics of a soil–plant–arthropod food web. We found that the relative balance of top‐down and bottom‐up effects on a given food web compartment was determined by trophic position, subsidy magnitude, and top predators’ ability to exploit the subsidy. For intermediate trophic levels (e.g., detritivores and herbivores), we found that the subsidy could either alleviate or intensify top‐down pressure from the predator. For some parameter combinations, alleviation and intensification occurred sequentially during and after the resource pulse. The total effect of the subsidy on detritivores and herbivores, including top‐down and bottom‐up processes, was determined by the rate at which predator consumption saturated with increasing size of the allochthonous subsidy, with greater saturation leading to increased bottom‐up effects. Our findings illustrate how resource pulses to multiple trophic levels can influence food web dynamics by changing the relative strength of bottom‐up and top‐down effects, with bottom‐up predominating top‐down effects in most scenarios in this subarctic system.
Clinical presentation and outcomes of peripartum cardiomyopathy in the Middle East: a cohort from seven Arab countries
Authors: Salam Amar M. , Ahmed Mohamed Badie , Sulaiman Kadhim , Singh Rajvir , Alhashemi Mohammed , Carr Alison S. , Alsheikh‐Ali Alawi A. , AlHabib Khalid F. , Al‐Zakwani Ibrahim , Panduranga Prashanth , Asaad Nidal , Shehab Abdulla , AlMahmeed Wael , Al Suwaidi Jassim
Published: September 2020

Aims

Published data on the clinical presentation of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) are very limited particularly from the Middle East. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of patients with PPCM using data from a large multicentre heart failure (HF) registry from the Middle East.

Methods and results

From February to November 2012, a total of 5005 consecutive patients with HF were enrolled from 47 hospitals in 7 Middle East countries. From this cohort, patients with PPCM were identified and included in this study. Clinical features, in‐hospital, and 12 months outcomes were examined. During the study period, 64 patients with PPCM were enrolled with a mean age of 32.5 ± 5.8 years. Family history was identified in 11 patients (17.2%) and hypertension in 7 patients (10.9%). The predominant presenting symptom was dyspnoea New York Heart Association class IV in 51.6%, class III in 31.3%, and class II in 17.2%. Basal lung crepitations and peripheral oedema were the predominant signs on clinical examination (98.2% and 84.4%, respectively). Most patients received evidence‐based HF therapies. Inotropic support and mechanical ventilation were required in 16% and 5% of patients, respectively. There was one in‐hospital death (1.6%), and after 1 year of follow‐up, nine patients were rehospitalized with HF (15%), and one patient died (1.6%).

Conclusions

A high index of suspicion of PPCM is required to make the diagnosis especially in the presence of family history of HF or cardiomyopathy. Further studies are warranted on the genetic basis of PPCM.
Association of left ventricular ejection fraction with worsening renal function in patients with acute heart failure: insights from the RELAX‐AHF‐2 study
Authors: Feng Siting , Janwanishstaporn Satit , Teerlink John R. , Metra Marco , Cotter Gad , Davison Beth , Felker G. Michael , Filippatos Gerasimos , Pang Peter , Ponikowski Piotr , Sama Iziah E. , Voors Adriaan A. , Greenberg Barry
Published: September 2020

Aims

Whether risk of worsening renal function (WRF) during acute heart failure (AHF) hospitalization or the association between in‐hospital WRF and post‐discharge outcomes vary according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is uncertain. We assessed incidence of WRF, factors related to its development and impact of WRF on post‐discharge outcomes across the spectrum of LVEF in patients enrolled in RELAX‐AHF‐2.

Methods and results

A total of 6112 patients who had LVEF measured on admission and renal function determined prospectively during hospitalization were included. WRF, defined as a rise in serum creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL from baseline through day 5, occurred in 1722 patients (28.2%). Incidence increased progressively from lowest to highest LVEF quartile (P < 0.001). After baseline adjustment, WRF risk in Q4 (LVEF >50%) remained significantly greater than in Q1 (LVEF ≤29%; hazard ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval 1–1.43; P = 0.050). Age and comorbidity burden including chronic kidney disease increased as LVEF increased. Neither admission haemodynamic abnormalities, extent of diuresis during hospitalization nor residual congestion explained the increased incidence of WRF in patients with higher LVEF. Serelaxin treatment and diuretic responsiveness were associated with reduced risk of WRF in all LVEF quartiles. WRF in patients in the upper three LVEF quartiles increased risk of post‐discharge events.

Conclusions

Worsening renal function incidence during AHF hospitalization increases progressively with LVEF. Greater susceptibility of patients with higher LVEF to WRF appears more related to their advanced age and worse underlying kidney function rather than haemodynamic or treatment effects. WRF is associated with increased risk of post‐discharge events except in patients in the lowest LVEF quartile.
Boosting the cathode function toward the oxygen reduction reaction in microbial fuel cell using nanostructured surface modification
Authors: Mahmoud Rehab H. , Samhan Farag A. , Ibrahim Mohamed K. , Ali Gamila H. , Hassan Rabeay Y. A.
Published: September 2020

Production of bioelectricity via microbial fuel cells (MFCs) may become an important source of energy in the near future due to the possibility of extracting electric current from a wide range of organic wastes. In this study, several nanostructures, such as platinum (Pt)‐reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite, graphene nanosheets, MnO2, and MnO2/RGO, were synthesized, characterized, and investigated as cathode catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction. The prepared catalysts were tested in a single‐chamber microbial fuel cell with anaerobic bacterial mixed culture. Power density produced from MFC closed circuit operation using the nanoengineered catalysts were about 68 times more than those obtained using the classical graphite electrodes. Moreover, there was a slight reduction of 5.8% in power density (from 170 to 160 mW/m2) when Pt nanoparticles were loaded on the RGO nanosheets compared to Pt/C cathode. By replacing the precious Pt catalyst with other nanomaterials, a significant reduction in power density was observed. For RGO‐based cathode, the MFC performance decreased by 31.1% (from 170 to 117 mW/m2) and the percent of reduction reached 48.5% (from 170 to 88 mW/m2) for MnO2‐based cathode MFC. However, in RGO/MnO2 nanocomposite cathode MFC, the percent of reduction in power density was 26.4% (from 170 to 125 mW/m2). It can be concluded that RGO nanosheets loaded with Pt nanoparticles is a starting point for finding an alternative economic and effective cathode.
Investigating the impact of diagenesis on reservoir quality of the Jurassic shallow shelfal carbonate deposits: Kala Chitta Range, North Pakistan
Authors: Wadood Bilal , Khan Suleman , Liu Yiqun , Li Hong , Rahman Ali
Published: September 2020

The Middle Jurassic carbonate succession (Samana Suk Formation) in Kala Chitta Range, North Pakistan was studied in detail to investigate the impact of diagenesis on reservoir potential of the rock unit. The current study integrates detailed geological field, petrographic, scanning electron microscopic, and advance geochemical studies to reconstruct the diagenetic history of Jurassic carbonates and to evaluate its role in re‐shaping the reservoir potential. Based on field observations, five lithological units along with diagenetic features are recorded. Furthermore, various microfacies are defined within each lithological unit. Based on petrographic studies, it is observed that various diagenetic features including micritization, neomorphism, dissolution, compaction (mechanical and chemical), dolomitization, and cementation have played a crucial role in the porosity modification of various lithological units. The paragenetic sequence established in this study reveals modification of the carbonates in various diagenetic phases, for example, marine, meteoric, and burial (shallow and deep) diagenesis, followed by a phase of uplifting. Based on different types of microscopic porosities generated during various diagenetic phases, mudstone to wackestone carries good reservoir potential while the grainstone has moderate to poor potential. The plug porosity and permeability data further corroborate these findings. At outcrop, various large‐scale dissolution activities and dense network of inter‐connected fractures in all lithological units may have further enhanced the reservoir potential of the studied strata.
Dynamic functional network reconfiguration underlying the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Fu Zening , Sui Jing , Turner Jessica A. , Du Yuhui , Assaf Michal , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: September 2020

The dynamics of the human brain span multiple spatial scales, from connectivity associated with a specific region/network to the global organization, each representing different brain mechanisms. Yet brain reconfigurations at different spatial scales are seldom explored and whether they are associated with the neural aspects of brain disorders is far from understood. In this study, we introduced a dynamic measure called step‐wise functional network reconfiguration (sFNR) to characterize how brain configuration rewires at different spatial scales. We applied sFNR to two independent datasets, one includes 160 healthy controls (HCs) and 151 patients with schizophrenia (SZ) and the other one includes 314 HCs and 255 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We found that both SZ and ASD have increased whole‐brain sFNR and sFNR between cerebellar and subcortical/sensorimotor domains. At the ICN level, the abnormalities in SZ are mainly located in ICNs within subcortical, sensory, and cerebellar domains, while the abnormalities in ASD are more widespread across domains. Interestingly, the overlap SZ‐ASD abnormality in sFNR between cerebellar and sensorimotor domains was correlated with the reasoning‐problem‐solving performance in SZ (r = −.1652, p = .0058) as well as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule in ASD (r = .1853, p = .0077). Our findings suggest that dynamic reconfiguration deficits may represent a key intersecting point for SZ and ASD. The investigation of brain dynamics at different spatial scales can provide comprehensive insights into the functional reconfiguration, which might advance our knowledge of cognitive decline and other pathophysiology in brain disorders.
Appropriate and Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Decompensated Cirrhosis
Authors: Thomson Mary J. , Lok Anna S. F. , Tapper Elliot B.
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Patients with decompensated cirrhosis are prescribed numerous medications. Data are limited as to whether patients are receiving medications they need and avoiding those they do not. We examined a large national claims database (2010‐2015) to characterize the complete medication profile as well as the factors associated with appropriate and potentially inappropriate medication use in 12,621 patients with decompensated cirrhosis.

Approach and Results

Clinical guidelines and existing literature were used to determine appropriate and potentially inappropriate medications in decompensated cirrhosis. The total medication days’ supply was calculated from pharmacy data and divided by the follow‐up period for each decompensation. Ascites was the most common (86.5%), followed by hepatic encephalopathy (HE; 37.8%), variceal bleeding (VB; 17.5%), hepatorenal syndrome (6.3%), and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP; 6.1%). For patients with ascites, 55.8% filled a diuretic. For patients with HE, 32.4% and 63.3% filled rifaximin and lactulose, respectively. After VB, 60.3% of patients filled a nonselective beta blocker, and after an episode of SBP, 48.0% of patients filled an antibiotic for prophylaxis. The minority (4.5%‐17.3%) had enough medication to cover >50% follow‐up days. Potentially inappropriate medication use was common: 53.2% filled an opiate, 46.0% proton pump inhibitors, 14.2% benzodiazepines, and 10.1% nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Disease severity markers were associated with more appropriate mediation use but not consistently associated with less inappropriate medication use.

Conclusions

Patients with decompensated cirrhosis are not filling indicated medications as often or as long as is recommended and are also filling medications that are potentially harmful. Future steps include integrating pharmacy records with medical records to obtain a complete medication list and counseling on medication use with patients at each visit.
Dementia knowledge, art, research and education – Teaching primary school children about dementia
Authors: Burns Pippa , Green Corinne , Eady Michelle , Baker Jess R , Harris Penny , Primmer Jennine , Barkley Carinya , Traynor Victoria
Published: September 2020

Issue addressed

To develop, implement and evaluate the impact of a short education intervention on the understanding of dementia through visual art by primary school‐aged children.

Methods

A series of three lessons were developed in consultation with a local schoolteacher and community artists and taught in a local primary school. Stage 2 students (8‐10 years old) created an artwork about memory, learned about dementia and adapted their artworks to represent their developing understanding of dementia. Empirical data were collected through pre and postinterventions surveys and content analysis of the artworks.

Results

Matched pre and postintervention survey data were obtained for 74 students and showed a significant improvement in seven domains. This indicated that the students had an increased understanding of dementia and its impact on the individual following the intervention. Matched artwork was analysed from lessons 1 and 3 for 109 students using a coding schema developed specifically for this project. The students developed their artwork to show memories fading or being lost altogether. They also used abstract shapes to create a sense of disorder and chaos.

Conclusion

Participation in the intervention was shown to increase students’ understanding and knowledge of dementia using both qualitative and quantitative measures.

So what?

It is likely that by educating children about dementia, we have the potential to reduce the stigma faced by people living with dementia and their carers. This is important, as the ageing population means that more people within the community, including children, will know someone living with dementia. Further, this represents the cornerstone in creating dementia‐friendly communities.
Alpha7 nicotinic‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate hypothesis in the treatment of schizophrenia and beyond
Authors: Koola Maju Mathew
Published: September 2020

Development of novel treatments for positive, cognitive, and negative symptoms continue to be a high‐priority area of schizophrenia research and a major unmet clinical need. Given that all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted to date failed with one add‐on medication/mechanism of action, future RCTs with the same approach are not warranted. Even if the field develops a medication for cognition, others are still needed to treat negative and positive symptoms. Therefore, fixing one domain does not completely solve the problem. Also, targeting the cholinergic system, glutamatergic system, and cholinergic plus alpha7 nicotinic and N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors failed independently. Hence, targeting other less important pathophysiological mechanisms/targets is unlikely to be successful. Meta‐analyses of RCTs targeting major pathophysiological mechanisms have found some efficacy signal in schizophrenia; thus, combination treatments with different mechanisms of action may enhance the efficacy signal. The objective of this article is to highlight the importance of conducting RCTs with novel combination treatments in schizophrenia to develop antischizophrenia treatments. Positive RCTs with novel combination treatments that target the alpha7 nicotinic and NMDA receptors simultaneously may lead to a disease‐modifying therapeutic armamentarium in schizophrenia. Novel combination treatments that concurrently improve the three domains of psychopathology and several prognostic and theranostic biomarkers may facilitate therapeutic discovery in schizophrenia.
Significance of Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Food Packaging
Authors: Curtzwiler Greg W , Silva Paulo , Hall Alexander , Ivey Alexandra , Vorst Keith
Published: September 2020

Food safety authorities and the food industry are focused on uses of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various food-contact packaging applications. Not widely known until recently, certain PFAS occur in paper-based packaging materials typically at parts-per-billion to parts-per-million concentrations. These substances are nonintentionally added substances (NIAS) and are attributed to residues from recycled fiber and paperboard used in the manufacture of new food packaging products. Low concentration PFAS detection has generated debate in the food industry and among scientific and governmental organizations about understanding their significance in food-contact products because certain PFAS are intentionally added to some food packaging materials. Distinguishing between both sources of PFAS in food packaging is essential for regulatory compliance purposes. In this paper, we describe ongoing research using contact angle measurement analysis to determine limits of performance (LOP) for perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) (C4, C6, C8, and C10) on the surface of recycled paper packaging materials. We find that the LOP concentrations for PFCAs ranged from 37 ppm (C10) to higher than 1238 ppm (C4). Because there is no economic justification for the presence of PFAS that do not provide functional performance, these LOP concentrations can reliably be considered as NIAS thresholds. This analytical method and the resulting test data are able to differentiate the source of PFAS in food packaging. Future research will broaden the test method to include measurements of fluorotelomer, sulfonamide, and fluoropolymer substances to develop a more comprehensive understanding of PFAS performance and NIAS concentration thresholds. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:7–12. © 2020 SETAC

KEY POINTS

This research utilized contact angle measurements to statistically determine limit of performance (LOP) concentration thresholds of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs; C4, C6, C8, and C10) in recycled paper packaging materials. Limit of performance concentration thresholds were defined as below statistical performance enhancements, which would provide no economic advantage to their presence. Therefore, it can be reasonably assumed that their presence was nonintentional (i.e., nonintentionally added substance [NIAS]). This study determined nonintentionally added concentration thresholds for PFCAs from 37 ppm (C10) to higher than 1238 ppm (C4). These data are critical for understanding what concentrations of PFCAs in food packaging can be considered intentionally added for regulatory compliance.
Turkey's sectoral exports: A competitiveness approach
Authors: Bayar Güzin
Published: September 2020

In this study, a sectoral export determination equation of Turkey is estimated using a very detailed panel data of 1,029 sectors in SITC Rev 3 four digit level for the period 1995–2015. In addition to standard export determination variables; the variables showing technology and sophistication level of the export products of Turkey were included among the independent variables; using both some traditional classification measures (Lall (2000), Oxford Development Studies, 2, 100–109) and a new measure developed by Hidalgo et al., (2009), “The Building Blocks of Economic Complexity.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 106(26): 10570–10575. Moreover, also some indicators of competitiveness in world markets were included among independent variables. Method of estimation is augmented mean group, which takes into consideration cross sectional dependencies and parameter heterogeneities. Results of the regression suggest that product quality and design are becoming more important and price competition becomes less important in gaining competitive edge in world markets for Turkey. There is a transition of Turkey's exports towards medium technology products.
Follow‐up of offspring and mothers with gestational diabetes treated with metformin or glibenclamide: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Paul Praveen , Priyambada Leena , Abraham Anuja , Manimegalai Babuji , Paul Thomas V. , Princy Sneha , Antonisamy Balevendra , Thomas Nihal , Yenuberi Hilda , Mathews Jiji E.
Published: September 2020

Synopsis

A 9‐year follow‐up of a randomized controlled trial showed metformin to have better neonatal outcomes than glibenclamide.
Laparoscopic sentinel lymph node dissection followed by open radical hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer: A pilot study
Authors: Michaan Nadav , Laskov Ido , Aizic Asaf , Brautbar Oded , Grisaru Dan
Published: September 2020

Objective

To propose a treatment algorithm, after the LACC trial, of laparoscopic sentinel lymph node biopsy with frozen section, followed by immediate open radical hysterectomy in node‐negative cases, for early stage cervical cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively collected all cases of cervical cancer that were surgically treated between 2019–2020. In all cases, surgery began with laparoscopic sentinel lymph node biopsy ± ovarian transposition. Node‐negative cases continued with open radical hysterectomy. In node‐positive cases, surgery was discontinued, sparing the patient a laparotomy incision.

Results

Nine patients with cervical cancer were referred for surgery. Laparoscopic bilateral lymph node identification was achieved in all. In two cases, sentinel lymph nodes were positive for metastatic cancer and surgery was discontinued. For the other seven, node‐negative patients, open radical hysterectomy was completed. Four patients had laparoscopic ovarian transposition. There were no cases where nodes were negative on frozen section but positive on final pathology.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic sentinel lymph node biopsy before open radical hysterectomy may spare a considerable number of laparotomies on the one hand and bi‐modal treatment with surgery and radiation on the other, for node‐positive patients. The oncological safety of this approach is yet to be determined.
REBACIN® is an optional intervention for persistent high‐risk human papillomavirus infection: A retrospective analysis of 364 patients
Authors: Yang Ying , Hu Tingwenyi , Ming Xiu , Yang E. , Min Wenjiao , Li Zhengyu
Published: September 2020

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of REBACIN® in patients with persistent high‐risk HPV (hrHPV) infection. Persistent hrHPV infection is a crucial cause of cervical cancer, for which optimal pharmacological intervention remains unavailable.

Methods

A retrospective analysis and a meta‐analysis were carried out. The retrospective analysis included 364 patients who were persistently infected with HPV for at least 12 months, between September 2015 and February 2019, and only received the REBACIN® intervention. HPV DNA typing, HC2 hrHPV DNA, and ThinPrep cytologic tests were performed before and after the REBACIN® intervention, to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy. The meta‐analysis included trials evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of interferons.

Results

After a follow‐up period of 3–6 months, the overall rate of efficacy of REBACIN® was 74.73% (272/364), which was higher than that of interferon (61.50%). The efficacy of REBACIN® was correlated with HPV type (odds ratio [OR] 0.549, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.367–0.822, P=0.004) and pretreatment cytology (OR 0.358, 95% CI 0.173–0.739, P=0.005).

Conclusion

REBACIN® is potently efficacious at clearing persistent hrHPV infection; hence, it can serve as an optional intervention for persistent hrHPV infection.
Mind‐mindedness and parenting stress in mothers of preterm and full‐term infants: The moderating role of perceived social support
Authors: Suttora Chiara , Salerni Nicoletta , Selvagno Elena , Porro Matteo , Gangi Silvana , Squarza Chiara , Gardon Laura , Picciolini Odoardo
Published: September 2020

The goal of this study was to examine the effects of preterm birth and maternal childbirth‐related posttraumatic stress and parenting stress on maternal mind‐mindedness (MM). The study also investigated the effects of perceived social support on parenting stress and MM. Sixty‐five preterm (N = 32) and full‐term (N = 33) mother–infant dyads were observed at 6 months. Measures of maternal MM were obtained from observations of mother–infant interaction. Mothers also provided ratings of their posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, parenting stress, and perceived social support via an online survey. Experiencing a preterm birth did not affect mothers’ use of mental state descriptors during mother–infant interaction. Neither childbirth‐related posttraumatic stress nor parenting stress directly affected maternal ability to comment on the child's mental states appropriately. However, at medium and high levels of perceived social support, a negative association between parenting stress and MM was observed. Maternal perception of being emotionally supported by significant others promoted MM in mothers showing low or mild levels of parenting stress, but not in mothers experiencing high stress in parenting their infants. Results suggest that a proclivity to MM might be affected by the interaction between parenting stress and social support, rather than by childbirth‐related variables, such as prematurity.