bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding phenotype with severe midline brain anomalies and missense variant supports a causal role for FOXA2 in 20p11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Dines Jennifer N. , Liu Yajuan J. , Neufeld‐Kaiser Whitney , Sawyer Taylor , Ishak Gisele E. , Tully Hannah M. , Racobaldo Melissa , Sanchez‐Valle Amarilis , Disteche Christine M. , Juusola Jane , Torti Erin , McWalter Kirsty , Doherty Dan , Dipple Katrina M.
Published: July 2019

Rare individuals with 20p11.2 proximal deletions have been previously reported, with a variable phenotype that includes heterotaxy, biliary atresia, midline brain defects associated with panhypopituitarism, intellectual disability, scoliosis, and seizures. Deletions have ranged in size from 277 kb to 11.96 Mb. We describe a newborn with a de novo 2.7 Mb deletion of 20p11.22p11.21 that partially overlaps previously reported deletions and encompasses FOXA2. Her clinical findings further expand the 20p11.2 deletion phenotype to include severe midline cranial and intracranial defects such as aqueductal stenosis with hydrocephalus, mesencephalosynapsis with diencephalic‐mesencephalic junction dysplasia, and pyriform aperture stenosis. We also report one individual with a missense variant in FOXA2 who had abnormal glucose homeostasis, panhypopituitarism, and endodermal organ dysfunction. Together, these findings support the critical role of FOXA2 in panhypopituitarism and midline defects.
Descriptive and risk factor analysis of nonsyndromic sacral agenesis: National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997–2011
Authors: Nalbandyan Marine , Howley Meredith M. , Cunniff Christopher M. , Romitti Paul A. , Browne Marilyn L. ,   for the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: July 2019

Sacral agenesis is a rare birth defect characterized by partial or complete absence of the sacrum. We sought to (a) describe case characteristics, (b) estimate birth prevalence, and (c) identify risk factors for nonsyndromic sacral agenesis using data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS). The NBDPS was a population‐based, case–control study involving pregnancies with estimated dates of delivery from October 1997 through December 2011. We estimated birth prevalence using all NBDPS eligible cases. Using self‐reported maternal exposure information, we conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify potential risk factors overall and among women without diabetes. The birth prevalence of sacral agenesis was 2.6/100,000 live births. In the multivariable analysis, multifetal pregnancy, pre‐existing Type 1 diabetes, and pre‐existing Type 2 diabetes were positively and significantly associated with sacral agenesis, albeit estimates were imprecise. Preexisting Type 1 diabetes was the strongest risk factor (adjusted odds ratio = 96.6, 95% confidence interval = 43.5–214.7). Among women without diabetes, periconceptional smoking was positively and significantly associated with sacral agenesis. Our findings underscore the importance of smoking cessation programs among women planning pregnancy and the importance of better understanding the role of glycemic control before and during pregnancy when designing interventions for primary prevention of sacral agenesis.
A Tandem Ring‐Opening/Michael Addition/Ring‐Closure Sequence for the Regiospecific Synthesis of 5‐Hydroxy‐4,5‐dihydroisoxazoles
Authors: Wang Xuesong , Chen Yu , Chen Xin , Zhang Xueying , Guan Weiwei , Li Youbin
Published: July 2019

An effective and highly regiospecific strategy for the synthesis of 5‐hydroxy‐4,5‐dihydroisoxazoles is described via a tandem reaction including ring‐opening, Michael addition, and ring‐closure in one pot under mild conditions. Diverse structural 5‐hydroxy‐4,5‐dihydroisoxazoles were afforded in up to 96% yield for 21 examples. This strategy is highly efficient, environmentally friendly, and metal free.
Characterization of innovative sensors for volatile organic compounds trace compounds in biogas
Authors: Franchi Giovanni , Zollo Sharon , Pennazza Giorgio , Santonico Marco , Capocelli Mauro , Di Paola Luisa , Piemonte Vincenzo
Published: July 2019

The production of biogas requires the development of cheap and effective inline monitoring of 11 systems; specifically, pure biogas for specialized applications (solid oxide fuel cells) needs 12 very low concentrations of volatile organic compounds' contaminants. In this work, we report an application of a system, Bionote, already tested at very low concentrations (ppb) for biomedical applications. In details, we applied a gas sensors array of functionalized transducers to the detection of three target analytes (methanol, acetone, and isoprene) to high concentrations of analytes (up to 10,000 ppm). The results were widely satisfactory, because they demonstrate in this range the applicability of the system, which is largely reversible as well. The low cost and very low response times of these sensors stimulate in the direction of their full development and application for online monitoring of biogas in production processes.
Microfibrillated‐cellulose‐reinforced polyester nanocomposites prepared by filtration and hot pressing: Bending properties and three‐dimensional formability
Authors: Ishikura Yukiko , Yano Hiroyuki
Published: July 2019

The microfibrillated cellulose (MFC)–polyester fiber nanocomposites were prepared by dispersing various amounts of MFC with polyester fibers in water, followed by filtration, mold compression, drying, and hot pressing. Further, bending tests and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) of the hot‐pressed nanocomposites were performed, and the three‐dimensional (3D) formability of the samples subjected to hot pressing was investigated. With more than 50 wt% MFC content, the bending strength and elastic modulus of the materials substantially increased. Furthermore, the DMA results revealed that, with increasing MFC content, the decrease in the material storage modulus with increasing temperature became less pronounced. Results indicate that the MFC network formation increased in materials with increasing MFC content. The 3D formation was also possible in all the samples, and an increase in sample expansion and decrease in the spring‐back of shapes with increasing moisture content were observed with an increase in the polyester fiber content in the materials. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48192.
Optimizing size and distribution of voids in phenolic resins through the choice of catalyst types
Authors: Hamad Sameer F. , Farr Nicholas , Fei Teng , Shukor Nur F. , Dean Julian S. , Hayes Simon A. , Foreman Joel P. , Rodenburg Cornelia
Published: July 2019

Phenolics are widely used for over a century in different industries due to their chemical resistance and thermomechanical properties. However, the presence of voids in phenolic resins has negative effects on the mechanical properties and a conventional approach is to avoid these by utilizing very long cure cycles. Our alternative approach investigates the tailoring of void size and distribution to achieve a better balance between processing time and mechanical properties. Therefore, we produced phenolic resin with a void‐free microstructure by a long cure cycle as a reference. To alter the void size and distributions, we utilized different catalysts and a short cure cycle to obtain phenolic resins and test their flexural properties with respect to the reference. We investigated the fracture surfaces of all materials by SEM, FTIR and compared results to finite element modeling that confirmed the effects of different void size and distributions on the mechanical properties. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Applied Polymer Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48249.
Pharmacokinetic modeling of the blood‐stable camptothecin analog AR‐67 in two different formulations
Authors: Liu Xiaoxi , Adane Eyob , Tang Fei , Leggas Markos
Published: July 2019

AR‐67 is a lipophilic camptothecin analog currently under clinical investigation using a Cremophor EL based formulation. However, as potential toxicity limitations exist in the clinical use of Cremophor, an alternative cyclodextrin (SBE‐β‐CD) based formulation has been proposed. Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies were conducted in mice and the SBE‐β‐CD based formulation was compared with the Cremophor EL formulation. PK studies were conducted following intravenous or oral administration of AR‐67 in either Cremophor or SBE‐β‐CD formulation in mice. Noncompartmental analysis was used to determine the plasma and tissue drug distribution. A non‐linear mixed effects (population) PK model was developed to fit both the oral and intravenous data and to estimate key PK parameters. The effect of formulation was explored as a covariate in the PK model. AR‐67 in the SBE‐β‐CD formulation had similar plasma PK and biodistribution to that in the Cremophor EL formulation. The proposed two‐compartment model described the plasma PK of AR‐67 in both formulations adequately. AR‐67 in the SBE‐β‐CD formulation exhibited dose linearity following both oral and intravenous administration. Our studies indicate that SBE‐β‐CD is a viable alternative to Cremophor EL as a pharmaceutical excipient for formulating AR‐67.
How a maximizing orientation affects trade‐offs between desirability and feasibility: The role of outcome‐ versus process‐focused decision making
Authors: Hsieh Meng‐Hua , Yalch Richard F.
Published: July 2019

This research examines how maximizers make decisions when they must trade‐off between desirability and feasibility attributes. Across four studies, we demonstrate that maximizers tend to prefer choices offering more desirability to those offering more feasibility and respond more favorably to a product's advertising when it highlights desirability more than feasibility attributes. Furthermore, we show that maximizers' focus on outcomes rather than processes drives their preference for desirability, such that changing from an outcome to a process focus can redirect their interest from desirability to feasibility. By contrast, satisficers do not prefer products higher in desirability to those higher in feasibility and are not more receptive to ads highlighting desirability attributes. Furthermore, because satisficers may focus on both the outcome and the process, priming either one is redundant and does not alter their preference for desirability or feasibility.
The role of intuition in pedagogical tact: Educator views
Authors: Sipman Gerbert , Thölke Jürg , Martens Rob , McKenney Susan
Published: July 2019

Pedagogical tact concerns a teacher's ability to adequately handle complex classroom situations that require immediate action. As such, pedagogical tact can be viewed as an enactment of teachers’ intuition. While most teachers, teacher educators, educational leaders and scholars readily recognise the importance of pedagogical tact (and by extension, intuition), few pre‐service or in‐service programmes devote explicit attention to developing this important teacher quality. This study set out to understand why. Specifically, data were collected to investigate how educators perceive intuition, and its role in teacher pedagogical tact. Ten focus group discussions were held with school board members, teacher educators, school principals, in‐service teachers and pre‐service teachers. Participants recognised two types of intuition commonly described in the literature (local and nonlocal), and affirmed the importance of intuition for teacher pedagogical tact. These educators also noted that teachers are rarely if ever encouraged to make conscious use of their intuition, let alone develop it. There was consensus that teachers differ in how well they are able to tune into their intuition. Though the scale of the study is small, the findings suggest that more attention should be given to developing teacher intuition and pedagogical tact than is currently the case.
Marker‐Free System Using Ribosomal Promoters Enhanced Xylose/Glucose Isomerase Production in Streptomyces rubiginosus
Authors: Wang Xiaojie , Deng Zixin , Liu Tiangang
Published: July 2019

Xylose/glucose isomerases are important industrial enzymes that are most widely used in food industries; however, their previously reported expression levels do not meet the requirements for industrial application. Here, an antibiotic resistance marker (ARM)‐free system driven by ribosomal RNA (rRNA) promoters is developed to obtain high‐level xylose/glucose isomerase (XI/GI) expression in Streptomyces rubiginosus (S. rubiginosus). The rRNA promoter rrnD yields the highest glucose isomerase production titer of XIs/GIs, which is eight times higher than that of ermEp* and 2.6 times higher than that of kasOp*. The integrated ARM gene is removed by further introduction of the Cre plasmid with a temperature‐sensitive replicon. The production titer of XIs/GIs is further improved by replacing the xylR gene with an additional expression glucose isomerase cassette at the xylR locus. Ultimately, the glucose isomerase activity reaches up to 79.7 ± 7.5 U mL−1 at 96 h. The results support the robustness and stability of XI/GI production with this ARM‐free system using optimal ribosomal promoters in S. rubiginosus, demonstrating strong potential in large‐scale industrial applications. Besides, the results imply that rRNA promoters are strong promoters that can be used for protein engineering or metabolic engineering.
Clinicopathological features and prognostic validity of the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th staging systems in colonic neuroendocrine neoplasms
Authors: Zhang Yu , Shang Liang , Zhang Pan‐Pan , Chen Luo‐Hai , Wang Wei , Fang Cheng , Qiu Meng , Feng Xing‐Yu , Zhou Lin , Zhang Meng , Tan Huang‐Ying , Qiu Xu‐Dong , Wang Hao , Lin Rong , Zhang Qin , Zeng Yu‐Jie , Jin Kai‐Zhou , Yu Xian‐Jun , Shen Lin , Chen Min‐Hu , Li Jie , Li Le‐Ping , Chen Jie
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of colonic neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) and to validate the prognostic value of the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th staging systems.

Methods

A total of 167 and 1248 patients with colonic NENs from 12 medical centers across China and from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) cancer registry in the United States, respectively, were reviewed. Patients were staged according to the ENETS and AJCC 8th staging systems.

Results

Clinicopathological features of colonic NENs in the Chinese cohort and SEER cohort were significantly distinct. In both the Chinese cohort and the SEER cohort, colonic neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) and mixed adeno‐neuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC) were more frequent in the midgut than in the hindgut. Tumors originating from the midgut tended to be larger and at a more advanced stage than those from the hindgut. The AJCC 8th staging system and the ENETS system appeared to have similar prognostic ability for colonic NEC/MANEC.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that tumors originating from the midgut and the hindgut shared different clinicopathological features. The AJCC 8th staging system and the ENETS system appeared to have similar prognostic ability for colonic NEC/MANEC.
The Transferability of Family Assessment Tools between Countries: Reflections on the Intervention Research Approach
Authors: Strydom Marianne , Schiller Ulene
Published: July 2019

This paper illustrates the practical implementation of intervention research when adapting a family assessment tool between countries. Developing countries such as South Africa are emphasising the indigenisation of practices to ensure applicable theories and practices when addressing unique societal contexts or challenges. New social work technology can be developed using the process of intervention research. This paper analyses the application of intervention research using the social constructionism paradigm in addressing the research problem of how a family assessment tool can be transferred from one country to another, with the main focus being on feedback and the application of this method by the researchers. Forty‐six social workers were trained in the use of the assessment tool, and feedback on the adaptation of the tool was gathered during focus group discussions on various occasions. Results indicate the importance of contextualising the tool within the context of specific countries to ensure relevancy and applicability, especially among different racial and cultural groups, as well as to ensure that the relevant stakeholders are consulted in the development of new technology. Intervention research ensures a rigorous research process to adapt existing technology to a local context.

‘This paper illustrates the practical implementation of intervention research when adapting a family assessment tool between countries’

Key Practitioner Messages

Intervention research is an appropriate approach in adapting tools from one context to another.

Focus group discussion enhances the ability of practitioners to jointly construct practice realities.

The applicability of assessment tools is enhanced by widely consulting with practitioners.
Transcatheter mitral valve‐in‐valve implantation in a pediatric patient
Authors: Momenah Tarek S. , Alsahari Atif , Ahmed Eltayeb , Al Khalaf Khalaf
Published: July 2019

An 11‐year‐old girl, with 25 mm mosaic tissue valve presented with clinical and echocardiographic appearance of stenotic mitral valve prosthesis. Her condition was treated via a transcatheter valve‐in‐valve implantation using a 23 mm Edwards Sapien 3, with satisfactory outcome.
H2O2 Tolerance in Pseudomonas Fluorescens: Synergy between Pyoverdine‐Iron(III) Complex and a Blue Extracellular Product Revealed by a Nanotechnology‐Based Electrochemical Approach
Authors: Magro Massimiliano , Baratella Davide , Jakubec Petr , Corraducci Vittorino , Fasolato Luca , Cardazzo Barbara , Novelli Enrico , Zoppellaro Giorgio , Zboril Radek , Vianello Fabio
Published: July 2019

Some strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens generate a blue extracellular product conferring high resistance to oxidative stress with respect to white mutants. As conventional methods fail to discriminate among blue and white microorganisms, the mechanism of H2O2 scavenging activity of colored P. fluorescens was here investigated by an electrochemical approach coupled to nanotechnology. Hydrophilic pyoverdine, the most represented siderophore, was studied as possible electrocatalytic partner of the hydrophobic blue bacterial extract. Peculiar iron oxide nanoparticles were used as a support for the siderophore immobilization, mimicking a water soluble FeIII‐siderophore complex. Interestingly, even if these two counterparts are not redox active when used alone, the siderophore was able to trigger the crude colored bacterial extract into a selective catalyst for hydrogen peroxide elimination. The present study, besides shedding light into the bacterial mechanisms behind the tolerance to H2O2, highlights the advantages of using nanotechnology as complement of classical electrochemical methods aimed at addressing complex biological issues.
Differentiation of stabilized nitrocellulose during artificial aging: Spectroscopy methods coupled with principal component analysis
Authors: Trache Djalal , Tarchoun Ahmed Fouzi
Published: July 2019

In this work, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) were selected as reliable, fast, and nondestructive techniques to assess their potentialities for characterization and discrimination of nitrocellulose (NC)‐based formulations containing different kinds of stabilizers and subjected to accelerated aging. Preliminary results based on visual comparison of the spectra point out that spectra obtained by both spectroscopic techniques were useful for a rapid detection of the aging process without additional sample preparation. Additionally, the existence of compatibility issues between NC and one of the stabilizers is easily recognized. The spectral data were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) for visualization and to reveal differences between samples. The obtained results demonstrated that PCA plots were able to distinguish and classify the NC samples with respect to their respective stabilizers and aging.
Bidirectional association between aortic dissection and atrial fibrillation: Findings from a huge national database
Authors: Hu Wei‐Syun , Lin Cheng‐Li
Published: July 2019

Objective

To explore the link between aortic dissection (AD) and atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), cohorts were constructed for evaluating the incidence of AF in patients with AD (study 1) and the incident AD among AF patients (study 2) based on propensity matching analysis. Cox proportion hazard regression models were used to examine the effect of AD on the risk of AF, shown as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Similar statistical procedures were used for study 2.

Results

The study 1 consisted of 11 813 patients in the AD cohort and 11 813 controls in the non‐AD cohort and the study 2 consisted of 190 494 patients in the AF cohort and 190 494 controls in the non‐AF cohort. The overall incidence density of AF was 1.32‐fold higher in the AD cohort than in the non‐AD cohort (11.1 and 8.3 per 1000 person‐years), with an adjusted HR (aHR) of 1.74 (95% CI = 1.53‐1.98). The AF cohort had 1.18‐fold higher incidence of AD than the non‐AF cohort (0.55 vs 0.47 per 1000 person‐years), with an aHR of 1.24 (95% CI = 1.07‐1.44).

Conclusions

Bidirectional association between AD and AF was shown for the first time in this study.
Tuning the Dimensionality of Nano Ca(OH)2 with Surfactants for Wall Painting Consolidation
Authors: Zhu Jinmeng , Li Xuanhua , Yan Jing , Zhao Xichen , Cao Yijian , Camaiti Mara , Li Tong , Wei Bingqing
Published: July 2019

As an effective conservation material for wall paintings, ancient paper, and stone artifacts, nano Ca(OH)2 has been studied for more than two decades. However, the synthesis methods are expensive, complex, time‐consuming, or require considerable energy. To tackle the issue, we report, in this study, a facile, large‐scale, time saving, and economical method for synthesizing nano Ca(OH)2 (∼90 nm) at room temperature. This is achieved by controlling crystal growth of Ca(OH)2 at the (
) facet (vertical direction) and (0001) facet (horizontal direction) with simultaneous addition of octyl phenyl polyoxyethylene ether (OPPE) and dimethylformamide (DMF) in the reaction. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the crystal dimensionality tuning is caused by attaching OPPE to the (0001) facet and DMF to the (
) facet of Ca(OH)2. Experimental results showed that the synthesized nano Ca(OH)2 has higher stability and carbonation degree than commercial Ca(OH)2 and was used for consolidating a 1300‐year‐old tomb painting, which is a very important, precious, and heavily damaged national treasure of China. The results demonstrate that the nano Ca(OH)2 shows excellent penetration into the painting, considerably improves the strength of the painting, and has no side effects on the color, pore distribution, and porosity of the painting. Our work will significantly facilitate the industrial production of nano Ca(OH)2 and its application in cultural heritage conservation.
Bio‐Inspired Synthesis of Hematite Mesocrystals by Using Xonotlite Nanowires as Growth Modifiers and Their Improved Oxygen Evolution Activity
Authors: Liu Yang‐Yi , Chang Fu‐Jia , Gao Huai‐Ling , Chen Si‐Ming , Gao Min‐Rui , Zheng Ya‐Rong , Cölfen Helmut , He Chuan‐Xin , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: July 2019

Bio‐inspired synthesis of functional materials with highly ordered structure and tunable properties is of particular interest, but efficient approaches that allow the access of these materials are still limited. A method has been developed for the preparation of hematite particles by using xonotlite nanowires (XNWs) as growth modifiers. The concentration of the XNWs has a profound effect on the final morphology of the products, whereas the concentration of the iron(III) ions can control the size of the hematite particles. The underlying mechanism of the bio‐inspired XNW‐modified mineralization process has been proposed. The obtained hematite particles exhibit good catalytic performance in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), affording a current density of 10 mA cm−2 with an overpotential of 370 mV, a small Tafel slope of 65 mV dec−1, and good stability in alkaline electrolyte. This strategy for preparing functional materials by using nanowires as the growth modifiers has great potential for future application in the construction of various materials with hierarchical structures.
Label‐Free Analysis of Red Blood Cell Storage Lesions Using Imaging Flow Cytometry
Authors: Pinto Ruben N. , Sebastian Joseph A. , Parsons Michael J. , Chang Tim C. , Turner Tracey R. , Acker Jason P. , Kolios Michael C.
Published: July 2019

Deleterious changes, collectively termed as storage lesions, alter the characteristics of red blood cell (RBC) morphology during in vitro storage. Due to gradual loss of cellular membrane, RBCs lose their original biconcave disk shape and begin a process of spherical deformation that is characterized by well‐defined morphological criteria. At the spheroechinocyte stage, the structure of RBC is irreversibly damaged and lacks the elasticity necessary to efficiently deliver oxygen. Quantifying the prevalence of spheroechinocytes could provide an important morphological measure of the quality of stored blood products. Unlike the conventional RBC morphology characterization assay involving light microscopy, we introduce a label‐free assay using imaging flow cytometry (IFC). The technique captures 100,000 images of a sample and calculates a relative measure of spheroechinocyte population in a fraction of the time required by the conventional method. A comparative method study, measuring a morphological index for 11 RCC units through storage, found that the two techniques measured similar trends with IFC reporting the metric at an average of 3.9% higher. We monitored 18 RCC units between Weeks 1 and 6 of storage and found that the spheroechinocyte population increased by an average of 26.2%. The large (3.5–64.1%) variation between the units' spheroechinocyte population percentage at Week 1 suggests a possible dependence of blood product quality on donor characteristics. Given our method's ability to rapidly monitor large samples and refine morphological characterization beyond conventional methods, we believe our technique offers good potential for studying the underlying relationships between RBC morphology and blood storage lesions. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Cytological features of a renal angiomyolipoma in a child—A case report
Authors: Jain Kavita , Das Mou , Chatterjee Uttara , Datta Chhanda
Published: July 2019

Angiomyolipoma (AML) earlier thought to be a hamartomatous lesion is now considered as a rare neoplasm of the kidney. A 6‐year‐old child presented with an abdominal mass. CT scans showed a multiloculated mass with variable attenuation raising the possibility of AML. FNAC done from the lesion also suggested possibility of AML, which was later confirmed on the histology of the resected specimen. There is sparse literature available describing the cytologic diagnosis of AML in children. Hence, we take this opportunity to describe the cytological findings of a case of pediatric renal AML.
Modeling current and potential distributions of mammal species using presence‐only data: A case study on British deer
Authors: Croft Simon , Ward Alastair I. , Aegerter James N. , Smith Graham C.
Published: July 2019

Aim

Decisions on wildlife conservation, management, and epidemiological risk are best based on robust evidence. The continual improvement of species distributions, such that they can be relied upon in decision‐making, is important. Here we seek to refine aspects of a generic modelling approach and improve the utility of species distribution maps.

Location

Great Britain (GB).

Methods

We applied a modeling framework based on hierarchical Bayesian species distribution models exploiting opportunistic occurrence records from citizen science datasets to predict both current and potential distributions for each of the six deer species known to be present in GB. Using the resulting maps, we performed a simple analysis of the overlap between species to illustrate possible contact, which we interpret as the relative risk of potential disease spread given an introduction.

Results

Predicted distribution maps showed good agreement with the broader scale occurrence reported by a recent national deer survey with an average True Skill Statistics and AUC of 0.69 and 0.89, respectively. Aggregation of the maps for all species highlighted regions of central and eastern England as well as parts of Scotland where extensive areas of range overlap could result in interspecific contact with consequences for risk assessments for diseases of deer. However, if populations are allowed to expand to their predicted potential, then areas of overlap, and therefore disease interspecific transmission risk, will become extensive and widespread across all of mainland Britain.

Main conclusions

The generic modeling approach outlined performed well across all of the deer species tested, offering a robust and reliable tool through which current and potential animal distributions can be estimated and presented. Our application, intended to inform quantitative risk assessments, demonstrates the practical use of such outputs to generate the valuable evidence required to inform policy decisions on issues such as management strategy.
Gene‐diet quality interactions on haemoglobin A1c and type 2 diabetes risk: The Airwave Health Monitoring Study
Authors: Eriksen Rebeca , Gibson Rachel , Aresu Maria , Heard Andy , Chan Queenie , Evangelou Evangelos , Gao He , Elliott Paul , Frost Gary
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is multifactorial involving lifestyle, environmental and genetic risk factors. This study aims to investigate the impact of genetic interactions with alcohol and diet quality on glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) independent of obesity, in a British population.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study of 14 089 white British participants from Airwave Health Monitoring Study and a subsample of 3733 participants with dietary data. A T2D genetic risk score (GRS) was constructed, and its interactions with diet on HbA1c were assessed.

Results

GRS was associated with a higher HbA1c% (β = 0.03, P < 0.0001) and a higher risk of prediabetes (OR = 1.09, P < 0.0001) and T2D (OR = 1.14, P = 0.006). The genetic effect on HbA1c% was significantly higher in obese participants (β = 1.88, Pinteraction = 0.03). A high intake of wholegrain attenuated the effect on HbA1c% in high‐risk individuals Pinteraction = 0.04.

Conclusion

The genetic effect on HbA1c was almost doubled in obese individuals, compared with those with a healthy weight, and independent of weight, there was a modest offset on HbA1c in high‐genetic‐risk individuals consuming a diet high in wholegrain. This supports the importance of a healthy diet high in wholegrains and along with maintaining a healthy weight in controlling HbA1c among high‐genetic‐risk groups.
Electroanalytical Determination of Paracetamol Using Pd Nanoparticles Deposited on Carboxylated Graphene Oxide Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Saleem Shaimaa Jameel , Guler Muhammet
Published: July 2019

The study presents a novel paracetamol (PA) sensor based on Pd nanoparticles (PdNPs) deposited on carboxylated graphene oxide (GO−COOH) and nafion (Nf) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The morphologies of the as prepared composites were characterized using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The experimental results demonstrated that Nf/GO−COOPd displayed excellent electrocatalytic response to the oxidation PA. The linear range was 0.04–800 μM for PA with limit of detection of 0.012 μM and excellent sensitivity of 232.89 μA mM−1 cm−2. By considering the excellent performance of Nf/GO−COOPd composite such as wider linear range, lower detection, better selectivity, repeatability, reproducibility, and storage stability, the prepared composite, especially GO−COOH support, with satisfactory electrocatalytic properties was a promising material for the modification of electrode material in electrochemical sensor and biosensor field.
Sensitive Simultaneous Determination of Rutin and Folic Acid with the Use of a Solid Lead Electrode by Means of Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Ochab Mateusz , Gęca Iwona , Korolczuk Mieczyslaw
Published: July 2019

In this article a solid lead electrode (PbE) was utilized for the first time for determination of organic substances by means of adsorptive stripping voltammetry. A new procedure of simultaneous determination of rutin and folic acid was developed. Two well shaped and well separated reduction signals of rutin and folic acid were obtained with the use of PbE. The optimization of analytical procedure was presented. The calibration graphs for rutin and folic acid for an accumulation time of 120 s were linear in the ranges from 2×10−9 to 1×10−7 mol L−1 and from 2×10−9 to 5×10−8 mol L−1, respectively. The obtained detection limits for rutin and folic acid determination following accumulation time of 120 s were 7.9×10−10 and 8.4×10−10 mol L−1. Potential interference effects were investigated. The proposed procedure was used for analysis of pharmaceutical preparations with satisfactory results showing practical applications. The analytical parameters of the proposed procedure were compared with other voltammetric procedures of mentioned substances determination.
Effects of DNA polymerase kappa and mismatch repair on dose–responses of chromosome aberrations induced by three oxidative genotoxins in human cells
Authors: Nohmi Takehiko , Matsumoto Kyomu
Published: July 2019

Genotoxic carcinogens are regulated under the policy that there is no threshold or safe dose. It has been pointed out, however, that self‐defense mechanisms, such as detoxification, DNA repair, and error‐free translesion synthesis, may protect chromosome DNA from genotoxic insults, thereby constituting practical threshold. In this study, we examined dose responses of chromosome aberrations induced by three oxidative genotoxins, that is, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), menadione and paraquat, with or without DNA polymerase kappa (Polκ) activities and mismatch repair capacities in human cells. Polκ is involved in translesion synthesis across DNA damage and mismatch repair is responsible for correction of base–base mismatch in DNA. Polκ activity of the cells was inactivated either by point mutations in the catalytically essential amino acids (catalytically dead or CD) or by deletion of the POLK gene (knockout or KO). In the absence of mismatch repair, frequencies of chromosome aberrations induced by H2O2 and menadione were not significantly different among CD, KO, and the wild type (WT) cells. In the presence of mismatch repair, however, cytotoxicity and clastogenicity were enhanced and Polκ modulated the sensitivity of the cells. No‐observed‐genotoxic‐effect‐levels (NOGELs) for H2O2 and menadione were CD = KO < WT cells. In contrast, the sensitivities of the cells to paraquat were not significantly affected by the status of mismatch repair or Polκ activity. The results suggest that mismatch repair and Polκ coordinately modulate NOGELs for the clastogenicity of H2O2 and menadione and also that DNA lesion(s) responsible for paraquat‐induced chromosome aberrations are different from those induced by H2O2 and menadione. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:193–199, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mutagenicity as a parameter in surface water monitoring programs—opportunity for water quality improvement
Authors: Roubicek Deborah A. , Rech Célia M. , Umbuzeiro Gisela A.
Published: July 2019

Effect‐based analyses are being recognized as excellent tools to a comprehensive and reliable water quality evaluation to complement physical and chemical parameters. The Salmonella/microsome mutagenicity test was introduced in the São Paulo State water quality‐monitoring program in 1999 and waters from 104 sites used to the production of drinking water were analyzed. Samples were tested after organic extraction, using the microsuspension version of the Salmonella/microsome assay with strains TA98 and TA100 with and without S9‐mammalian metabolic system. Of the 1720 water samples analyzed in 20 years, 20% were positive; TA98 was the most sensitive strain, detecting alone 99%. Results were presented in hazard categories to facilitate water managers' understanding and general public communication. Hot spots of mutagenicity were identified, and pollution sources investigated. A flow scheme with instructions of how to proceed in case of mutagenic samples was developed and implemented in the monitoring program. Enforcement actions were taken to reduce exposure of humans and aquatic biota to mutagenic compounds. The results presented provide scientific basis for the incorporation of the Salmonella/microsome assay in a regulatory framework, and to guide water‐quality managers. The inclusion of a mutagenicity assay using standardized conditions proved to be an opportunity to improve the quality of water, and the strategy presented here could be applied by any environmental agency around the world. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:200–211, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Geochronology and geochemistry of the Sikongshan intrusion in the Dabie Orogen, Central China: Implication for Mesozoic geodynamic background
Authors: Liu Xiaoqiang , Yan Jun
Published: July 2019

The Sikongshan (SKS) intrusion, the largest pluton situated in the Central Dabie unit of the Dabie Orogen (DBO), is composed of monzogranite and quartz diorite. A study combining whole‐rock major and trace element analysis, zircon U–Pb dating, as well as zircon in situ Lu–Hf isotopes was conducted for the SKS intrusion. Zircon dating yielded U–Pb ages of 136 ± 1.6 Ma and 134.6 ± 1.7 to 130.4 ± 1.7 Ma for quartz diorites and monzogranites, respectively, both types belonging to the early stage of the Mesozoic magmatism in the DBO. The quartz diorites exhibited high Na2O (Na2O/K2O = 1.60–1.86) and Sr (1,185–1,365 ppm) and low Y (11.6–14.2 ppm) contents, and therefore high Sr/Y (83.45–108.19) ratios. They also had high ratios of (Dy/Yb)N (48.42–54.91) and (Dy/Yb)N (1.47–1.53). The monzogranites were enriched in K2O (Na2O/K2O = 0.64–0.99) and were also characterized by low Y (5.6–14.7 ppm) contents and high Sr/Y ratios with a geochemical affinity similar to that of the adakites. However, the Sr (<358 ppm) and Al2O3 (3.31–14.92%) contents were much lower than those in typical adakites and quartz diorites. Both the quartz diorites and monzogranites had trace element signatures similar to that of continental crust with enriched levels of Rb, Ba, Th, U, and LREE and depleted levels of Nb, Ta, P, and Ti, indicating their crustal origin. Following an integrated review of these and other data from previous studies, it was concluded that the Sikongshan quartz diorite originated from the thickened lower crust of the DBO, with a composition similar to that of the Huangtuling granulite, which is the exposed lower crust of the DBO. The monzogranite was generated by plagioclase + amphibolite fractional crystallization of the adakitic Tiantangzhai melt. The adakitic rocks in the DBO originated in the western part during 143 to 134 Ma and then spread extensively throughout the whole orogen (134 to 130 Ma). The collapse of the thickened mountain root in the DBO at an extensional setting may be related to the roll‐back of the subducted Paleo‐Pacific slab.
Data‐driven model optimization for optically pumped magnetometer sensor arrays
Authors: Duque‐Muñoz Leonardo , Tierney Tim M. , Meyer Sofie S. , Boto Elena , Holmes Niall , Roberts Gillian , Leggett James , Vargas‐Bonilla J. F. , Bowtell Richard , Brookes Matthew J. , López Jose D. , Barnes Gareth R.
Published: July 2019

Optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) have reached sensitivity levels that make them viable portable alternatives to traditional superconducting technology for magnetoencephalography (MEG). OPMs do not require cryogenic cooling and can therefore be placed directly on the scalp surface. Unlike cryogenic systems, based on a well‐characterised fixed arrays essentially linear in applied flux, OPM devices, based on different physical principles, present new modelling challenges. Here, we outline an empirical Bayesian framework that can be used to compare between and optimise sensor arrays. We perturb the sensor geometry (via simulation) and with analytic model comparison methods estimate the true sensor geometry. The width of these perturbation curves allows us to compare different MEG systems. We test this technique using simulated and real data from SQUID and OPM recordings using head‐casts and scanner‐casts. Finally, we show that given knowledge of underlying brain anatomy, it is possible to estimate the true sensor geometry from the OPM data themselves using a model comparison framework. This implies that the requirement for accurate knowledge of the sensor positions and orientations a priori may be relaxed. As this procedure uses the cortical manifold as spatial support there is no co‐registration procedure or reliance on scalp landmarks.
Quality of care and short and long‐term outcomes of oropharyngeal cancer care in the elderly
Authors: Gourin Christine G. , Herbert Robert J. , Quon Harry , Fakhry Carole , Kiess Ana P. , Eisele David W. , Frick Kevin D.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To examine associations between quality, short‐term and long‐term treatment‐related outcomes, and costs in elderly patients treated for oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (OPSCC).

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)‐Medicare data from 666 patients diagnosed with OPSCC from 2004 to 2007 using multivariate regression and survival analysis. Quality indicators were derived from guidelines for recommended care and performance measures.

Results

Higher quality care was associated with lower risk of death in patients with dysphagia (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.44 [0.32‐0.60]), weight loss (HR = 0.42 [0.28‐0.62]), gastrostomy (HR = 0.47 [0.33‐0.68]), airway obstruction (HR = 0.41 [0.27‐0.62]), tracheostomy (HR = 0.17 [0.05‐0.67]), and pneumonia (HR = 0.53 [0.33‐0.85]). There were no significant differences in mean incremental costs associated with airway and swallowing impairment for patients receiving higher quality care.

Conclusions

Higher quality OPSCC care was associated with improved survival in elderly patients with airway and swallowing impairment. These data suggest that greater adherence to evidence‐based guidelines has favorable implications for long‐term outcomes.
Validation of instrument reprocessing methods for the Ipas manual vacuum aspiration devices
Authors: Powell Bill , Kapp Nathalie
Published: July 2019

Objective

To validate recommended reprocessing methods for Ipas manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) devices.

Methods

All recommended reprocessing methods for Ipas MVA devices were tested for effectiveness in cleaning, achieving high‐level disinfection (HLD) and/or sterilization, and any physical effects on instruments. Worst‐case scenario testing was performed using artificial soil and microorganisms. Study protocols replicated standard steps for reprocessing. The specified method for reprocessing was performed 25 times on multiple devices, including controls. After runs 1, 2, 3, 15, and 25, devices and controls were analyzed for: microbial growth; residual soils; surface damage; and functionality.

Results

All samples were negative for microbial growth and residual soils. On inspection and functionality testing, no damage was observed for aspirators and cannulae except with STERRAD and Cidex OPA. Other methods of HLD and sterilization did not affect surfaces or functionality through 25 cycles.

Discussion

Ipas MVA devices were not negatively affected following validated instrument reprocessing methods for HLD or sterilization for up to 25 reuse cycles. STERRAD and Cidex OPA did not meet assessed standards and are therefore not recommended. Strict adherence to guidance is critical for effective reprocessing of instruments.
Toxic effects and involved molecular pathways of nanoparticles on cells and subcellular organelles
Authors: Liu Na , Tang Meng
Published: July 2019

Owing to the increasing application of engineered nanoparticles (NPs), besides the workplace, human beings are also exposed to NPs from nanoproducts through the skin, respiratory tract, digestive tract and vein injection. This review states pathways of cellular uptake, subcellular distribution and excretion of NPs. The uptake pathways commonly include phagocytosis, micropinocytosis, clathrin‐ and caveolae‐mediated endocytosis, scavenger receptor‐related pathway, clathrin‐ or caveolae‐independent pathway, and direct penetration or insertion. Then the ability of NPs to decrease cell viability and metabolic activity, change cell morphology, and destroy cell membrane, cytoskeleton and cell function was presented. In addition, the lowest dose decreasing cell metabolic viability compared with the control or IC50 of silver, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, carbon black, carbon nanotubes, silica, silicon NPs and cadmium telluride quantum dots to some cell lines was gathered. Next, this review attempts to increase our understanding of NP‐caused adverse effects on organelles, which have implications in mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress and lysosomal rupture. In particular, the disturbance of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial dynamic fusion‐fission, mitophagy and cytochrome c‐dependent apoptosis are involved. In addition, prolonged endoplasmic reticulum stress will result in apoptosis. Rupture of the lysosomal membrane was associated with inflammation, and both induction of autophagy and blockade of autophagic flow can result in cytotoxicity. Finally, the network mechanism of the combined action of multiple organelle dysfunction, apoptosis, autophagy and oxidative stress was discussed.
Effect of Bisphosphonates on Function and Mobility Among Children With Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Systematic Review
Authors: Constantino Christopher S. , Krzak Joseph J. , Fial Alissa V. , Kruger Karen M. , Rammer Jacob R. , Radmanovic Katarina , Smith Peter A. , Harris Gerald F.
Published: July 2019

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic connective tissue disorder that results in bone fragility and deformity. Management is multi‐disciplinary. Although pharmacologic intervention with bisphosphonates (BP) is a standard of care for individuals with severe OI, no consensus or reviews were found that focus on the effects of bisphosphonates on function and mobility. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PEDro databases were searched for eligible articles for this review. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for risk of bias. Twenty‐six studies (801 children) were reviewed and five showed a low risk of bias. Included studies showed significant variability among clinical protocols for administering BP. Randomized controlled trials did not demonstrate a significant improvement in function and mobility with oral BP administration, while non‐randomized open‐label uncontrolled studies demonstrated that oral and intravenous BP administration objectively improved function and mobility. The most common outcome measure used by the studies included in this review was the Bleck score. Effect sizes (d = 0.28 ‐ 4.5) varied among studies. This systematic review also summarized the apparent confounding variables affecting results of previous studies and provided suggestions to improve the quality of future studies.