bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular dynamics simulation of thermal degradation of silicone grease using reactive force field
Authors: Wei Xinyu , Xu Chi , Jia Zhidong , Wang Xilin
Published: November 2020

Silicone grease, consisting of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chains and silica, has been widely used in electrical power systems; this causes thermal aging of silicone grease at high temperatures. In this study, the thermal degradation process of silicone grease was analyzed at different temperatures using reactive force field (ReaxFF). The effects of different factors, such as silica surface chemistry and oxygen content, on the final products have been studied. The results showed that the final products can be divided into two main categories: small gaseous molecules and large‐molecule products. The number of gaseous hydrocarbon products and their unsaturation increased with increasing temperature. The large‐molecule products were consisted of silica and surrounding PDMS chains, which were broken and reorganized during the thermal degradation process. The time interval required for the formation of the large‐molecule products is larger when silica with a modified surface is used. The addition of oxygen during thermal degradation provided a new decomposition route. The O/Si ratio in the residue of silica grease increased while the C/Si ratio decreased with the increasing oxygen content. A new method for the generation of SiO2 residues in a sufficient oxygen environment was proposed based on the reactions between oxygen and Si–CH3.
Superparamagnetic polyvinylpyrrolidone/chitosan/Fe3O4 electrospun nanofibers as effective U(VI) adsorbents
Authors: Philippou Katerina , Christou Christos N. , Socoliuc Vlad , Vekas Ladislau , Tanasă Eugenia , Miclau Marinela , Pashalidis Ioannis , Krasia‐Christoforou Theodora
Published: November 2020

Magnetoactive electrospun fibrous membranes consisting of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), chitosan (CS) and pre‐fabricated, double‐layer oleic acid‐coated magnetite nanoparticles (OA.OA.Fe3O4) were fabricated and evaluated as new adsorbent materials for the removal and recovery of uranium (U(VI)) from aqueous solutions. The adsorption has been investigated by batch‐type experiments and the solid material has been characterized by X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (TEM/EDX) and vibration sample magnetometry (VSM) measurements prior and after uranium adsorption. The experimental adsorption data were found to be well fitted with the Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo‐second order kinetic model. The results indicate that PVP/CS/OA.OA.Fe3O4 fibrous adsorbents exhibit good adsorption properties towards U(VI) in aqueous solutions, achieving a qmax value of 0.77 mol kg−1 (183.3 mg g−1) at pH 6.0. The experiments regarding the regeneration and reuse of the magnetoactive adsorbents were carried out using Na2CO3, at pH ~11. After four cycles, the percentage relative adsorption remained stable (~100%) whereas the desorption percentage decreased from 31.9% to 21.0%. Generally, the presented results demonstrate that the incorporation of the Fe3O4 NPs has a positive effect on the adsorption efficiency of U(VI) from aquatic environments.
Large‐Scale Characterization of Systemic Sclerosis Serum Protein Profile: Comparison to Peripheral Blood Cell Transcriptome and Correlations With Skin/Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Bellocchi Chiara , Ying Jun , Goldmuntz Ellen A. , Keyes‐Elstein Lynette , Varga John , Hinchcliff Monique E. , Lyons Marka A. , McSweeney Peter , Furst Daniel E. , Nash Richard , Crofford Leslie J. , Welch Beverly , Goldin Jonathan G. , Pinckney Ashley , Mayes Maureen D. , Sullivan Keith M. , Assassi Shervin
Published: November 2020

Objective

To provide a large‐scale assessment of serum protein dysregulation in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc) and to investigate serum protein correlates of SSc fibrotic features.

Methods

We investigated serum protein profiles of 66 participants with dcSSc at baseline who were enrolled in the Scleroderma: Cyclophosphamide or Transplant Trial and 66 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects. A panel of 230 proteins, including several cytokines and chemokines, was investigated. Whole blood gene expression profiling in concomitantly collected samples was performed.

Results

Among the participants with dcSSc, the mean disease duration was 2.3 years. All had interstitial lung disease (ILD), and none were being treated with immunosuppressive agents at baseline. Ninety proteins were differentially expressed in participants with dcSSc compared to healthy control subjects. Similar to previous global skin transcript results, hepatic fibrosis, granulocyte and agranulocyte adhesion, and diapedesis were the top overrepresented pathways. Eighteen proteins correlated with the modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS). Soluble epidermal growth factor receptor was significantly down‐regulated in dcSSc and showed the strongest negative correlation with the MRSS, being predictive of the score’s course over time, whereas α1‐antichymotrypsin was significantly up‐regulated in dcSSc and showed the strongest positive correlation with the MRSS. Furthermore, higher levels of cancer antigen 15‐3 correlated with more severe ILD, based on findings of reduced forced vital capacity and higher scores of disease activity on high‐resolution computed tomography. Only 14 genes showed significant differential expression in the same direction in serum protein and whole blood RNA gene expression analyses.

Conclusion

Diffuse cutaneous SSc has a distinct serum protein profile with prominent dysregulation of proteins related to fibrosis and immune cell adhesion/diapedesis. The differential expression for most serum proteins in SSc is likely to originate outside the peripheral blood cells.
Diabetes type 2 risk gene Dusp8 is associated with altered sucrose reward behavior in mice and humans
Authors: Baumann Peter , Schriever Sonja C. , Kullmann Stephanie , Zimprich Annemarie , Peter Andreas , Gailus‐Durner Valerie , Fuchs Helmut , Hrabe de Angelis Martin , Wurst Wolfgang , Tschöp Matthias H. , Heni Martin , Hölter Sabine M. , Pfluger Paul T.
Published: November 2020

Background

Dusp8 is the first GWAS‐identified gene that is predominantly expressed in the brain and has previously been linked with the development of diabetes type 2 in humans. In this study, we unravel how Dusp8 is involved in the regulation of sucrose reward behavior.

Methods

Female, chow‐fed global Dusp8 WT and KO mice were tested in an observer‐independent IntelliCage setup for self‐administrative sucrose consumption and preference followed by a progressive ratio task with restricted sucrose access to monitor seeking and motivation behavior. Sixty‐three human carriers of the major C and minor T allele of DUSP8 SNP rs2334499 were tested for their perception of food cues by collecting a rating score for sweet versus savory high caloric food.

Results

Dusp8 KO mice showed a comparable preference for sucrose, but consumed more sucrose compared to WT mice. In a progressive ratio task, Dusp8 KO females switched to a “trial and error” strategy to find sucrose while control Dusp8 WT mice kept their previously established seeking pattern. Nonetheless, the overall motivation to consume sucrose, and the levels of dopaminergic neurons in the brain areas NAcc and VTA were comparable between genotypes. Diabetes‐risk allele carriers of DUSP8 SNP rs2334499 preferred sweet high caloric food compared to the major allele carriers, rating scores for savory food remained comparable between groups.

Conclusion

Our data suggest a novel role for Dusp8 in the perception of sweet high caloric food as well as in the control of sucrose consumption and foraging in mice and humans.
Pattern of thoracic osteophytes development and the association between calcification of the aorta and thoracic osteophytes: CT study
Authors: Simonovich Azaria , Naveh Yulia , Kalichman Leonid
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Our aim was use state‐of‐the‐art computed tomography (CT) to assess the prevalence and size of osteophytes in the thoracic spine; the effect of the thoracic aorta on osteophyte development; and the relationship between thoracic aortic calcification and osteophytes.

Methods

Thoracic CT scans of 100 individuals taken at the T4–T12 spinal levels were examined to determine the numbers and sizes of osteophytes on the right/left side of the vertebrae. Calcific deposits in the thoracic aorta (TAC) at each thoracic vertebral level were assessed. The mean length of the thoracic osteophytes on each side, the total thoracic osteophyte score (TTOS), and the numbers of osteophytes were calculated.

Results

The sample comprised 44 males/56 females (mean age 66.45 ± 9.37). TAC was observed in 54 subjects. Osteophytes were significantly larger on the right side than the left at each spinal level. The largest osteophytes on both sides were at the T9, T10, and T11 levels. After adjustment for age, no significant association was found between sex and TTOS on the left (F = 0.277, p = .600) or right (F = 3.856, p = .052). The right TTOS was significantly associated with TAC after adjustment for age and sex (p = .018).

Conclusions

Osteophytes in the thoracic spine are prevalent in older adults, with number and size increasing with age in both sexes. Osteophytes are significantly less prominent on the left side than the right, probably because of the proximity of the aorta. TTOS and TAC occurred in the same individuals after adjustment for age and sex, suggesting a possible common etiology.
Cookies fortified with purple passion fruit epicarp flour: Impact on physical properties, nutrition, in vitro starch digestibility, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Ning Xin , Wu Juanjuan , Luo Zhihui , Chen Yuan , Mo Zimei , Luo Ronghua , Bai Chuanjiang , Du Wei , Wang Lei
Published: November 2020

Background and objectives

The present work evaluated how the incorporation of passion fruit epicarp flour (PFEF), as a source of dietary fiber and polyphenols, influenced the quality, in vitro starch digestibility, and antioxidant activity of cookies.

Findings

Wheat flour was replaced by PFEF at different levels ranging from 3% to 9%. The cookies containing 6% produced a darken color and a harder texture. The cookies’ consumer acceptance did not substantially change when PFEF addition is 3% and 6%, but when the addition becomes 9%, consumer acceptance significantly deteriorated. As PFEF was added, the acrylamide content of the cookies considerably increased, which might raise health risks for consumers. In vitro starch digestibility suggested that the hydrolysis of starch was inhibited when PFEF level in the cookies increased. More importantly, the addition of PFEF significantly increased antioxidant properties of cookies.

Conclusion

Compared with corresponding common products, our findings were the first to demonstrate that it was feasible to produce PFEF‐enriched cookies with nutritional superiority.

Significance and novelty

PFEF, as a by‐product from the passion fruit processing industry, could be utilized for cookie preparation and other food products with improved nutritional and functional properties.
Experimental investigation on the microstructure of fluidized nanoparticle agglomerates by TEM image analysis
Authors: Wang Shaowei , Liu Huanpeng , Yang Chenyu , Li Yang
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the hierarchical solid structures and multiscale pore structures inside fluidized nanoparticle agglomerates (FNPAs) are qualitatively revealed in the transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of ultrathin slices of solidified FNPAs from the bottom of the bed. The micromorphology of aggregates and simple agglomerates, the porosities of pores intra and inter simple agglomerates, and pore size distributions inside FNPAs are quantitatively analyzed by image analysis. The average fractal dimensions of aggregates of about 300 nm‐1000 nm and simple agglomerates of several micrometres are around 1.9 and 2.6 respectively. The pore structure of FNPAs is complex and heterogeneous and displays a multiscale feature. Nearly 50% of the pores intra simple agglomerates have sizes of tens of nanometers and more than half the pores between simple agglomerates are of micrometre scale. The porosities of the pores intra and inter simple agglomerates are about 0.82 and 0.85 respectively.
Catalytic upgrading of bio‐oil: Hydrodeoxygenation study of acetone as molecule model of ketones
Authors: Wang Jundong , Jabbour Michael , Abdelouahed Lokmane , Mezghich Soumaya , Estel Lionel , Thomas Karine , Taouk Bechara
Published: November 2020

The complexity of composition of bio‐oil from biomass makes it difficult to produce upgraded bio‐oil via hydrodeoxygenation. In this paper, acetone is thus considered as a model compound of the ketones family abundant in pyrolysis bio‐oil. Results showed that high conversion rates of acetone between 86.6% and 91.9% were observed with the use of HZSM‐5, 5% Ni2P/HZSM‐5, and 10% Ni2P/HZSM‐5 catalysts. In most cases, CO2, C2H6, C3H6, and C3H8 were the dominant non‐condensable gas products. For liquid phase, the selectivity was evaluated for different catalysts relative to ethanol, acetaldehyde, and aromatic hydrocarbons. A lower temperature favoured the formation of acetaldehyde and methyl isobutyl ketone with the 5% Ni2P/HZSM‐5 catalyst, while higher temperatures increased the proportion of aromatic hydrocarbons. The principal influencing parameters of acetone HDO were temperature and contact time followed by reaction pressure and H2 partial pressure. Optimal conditions give a selectivity of 49% of aromatics (benzene, toluene, and xylene) with the use of the 5% Ni2P/HZSM‐5 catalyst. The pathway of the main reactions of acetone HDO was also proposed. MIK and aromatic hydrocarbons were formed by a multiple step aldol condensation reaction of acetone molecules followed by further hydrogenation.
A numerical study on fetal head molding during labor
Authors: Moura Rita , Borges Margarida , Vila Pouca Maria C. P. , Oliveira Dulce A. , Parente Marco P. L. , Kimmich Nina , Mascarenhas Teresa , Natal Renato M.
Published: November 2020

During vaginal delivery, the fetal head molds into an elongated shape to adapt to the birth canal, a process known as fetal head molding. However, excessive molding can occur due to prolonged labor or strong contractions, leading to several disorders on the fetal head. This work aims to perform a numerical study on the biomechanics of fetal head molding by measuring specific diameters and the corresponding molding index. A finite element model of the pelvic floor muscles and the fetal body was used. The fetal head is composed of the skin and soft tissues, the skull with sutures and fontanelles, and the brain. The sutures and fontanelles were modeled with membrane elements and characterized by a visco‐hyperelastic constitutive model adapted to a plane stress state. Simulations were performed to replicate the second stage of labor in the vertex presentation and occipito‐anterior position. With the introduction of viscoelasticity to assess a time‐dependent response, a prolonged second stage of labor resulted in higher molding. The pressure exerted by the birth canal and surrounding structures, along with the presence of the pelvic floor muscles, led to a percentage of molding of 9.1%. Regarding the pelvic floor muscles, a 19.4% reduction on the reaction forces and a decrease of 2.58% in muscle stretching was reported, which indicates that sufficient molding may lead to fewer injuries. The present study demonstrates the importance of focusing on the fetus injuries with non‐invasive methods that can allow to anticipate complications during labor.
Qualitative review on N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor expression in rat spinal cord during the postnatal development: Implications for central sensitization and pain
Authors: de Geus Thomas J. , Patijn Jacob , Joosten Elbert A. J.
Published: November 2020

The N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is an important mediator of central sensitization and nociception in the rat spinal dorsal horn. The NMDAR subunits and splice variants determine the properties of the receptor. Understanding the expression of NMDAR subunits in spinal cord during the neonatal development is important as it may have consequences for the process of central sensitization and nociception in later life. In this review, a systematic literature search was conducted using three databases: Medline, Embase, and PubMed. A quality assessment was performed on predetermined entities of bias. Thirteen articles were identified to be relevant. The results show that NMDAR subunits and splice variants are dynamically expressed during postnatal development in the spinal dorsal horn. During the first 2 weeks, the expression of less excitable GluN2A subunit and more sensitive GluN2B subunit increases while the expression of high excitable GluN2C subunit decreases. During the 2nd week of postnatal development GluN1 subunits with exon 21 spliced in but exon 22 spliced out are predominantly expressed, increasing phosphorylation, and transport to the membrane. The data suggest that in rats, the nociceptive system is most susceptible to central sensitization processes during the first two postnatal weeks. This may have important consequences for nociception and pain responses in later life. From this, we conclude that targeted therapy directed toward specific NMDAR subunits is a promising candidate for mechanism‐based treatment of pain in neonates.
Estimation of brain response to multimodal stimuli by index of spatiotemporal locality by magnetoencephalography
Authors: Mori Fumina , Kikuchi Keigo , Sugino Masato , Kotani Kiyoshi , Jimbo Yasuhiko
Published: November 2020

Brain‐computer interface (BCI) enables people who cannot move their own body freely to manipulate machines and helps their communication and life. Recent brain‐computer interface (BCI) uses multimodal stimuli to increase bit rate of the system, so it is important to reveal when and which part of the brain part is activated to discriminate target stimuli. Although magnetoencephalography (MEG) measures brain activity with high spatial and temporal resolution, there are a few indexes to estimate spatiotemporal locality of response. We propose an index to estimate spatiotemporal locality of response to multimodal stimuli of an oddball paradigm from magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals. The validity of proposed index is demonstrated by simulation. Discrimination task was conducted with different ratio of target/nontarget stimuli with visual and auditory location. Response to visual target stimuli was strong and made no spatiotemporal difference, so visual dominance was implied.
Incidence of potential adverse events during hospital‐based ketogenic diet initiation among children with drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Mir Ali , Albaradie Raidah , Alamri Abdullah , AlQahtani Mohammed , Hany Entisar , Hussain Aqeel , Joseph Mary , Bashir Shahid
Published: November 2020

Objective

Due to the possibility of serious adverse events (AE), patients are commonly admitted to hospital for 3‐5 days for ketogenic diet (KD) initiation. This study examined the incidence of potential AE during admission for KD initiation to investigate the possibility of safely initiating a KD at home.

Methods

Children with drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE) who were admitted to hospital for 5 days for KD initiation were retrospectively studied.

Results

A total of 66 children (59% female) were analyzed. The mean age at the initiation of the KD was 48.0 ± 38.4 months, and the mean weight was 14.6 ± 6.3 kg. The median number of anticonvulsant medications used at the time of KD initiation was 3. The etiology of the DRE was structural in 4.5%, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy in 10.6%, genetic/metabolic in 31.8%, acquired in 10.6%, and unknown in 42.2%. The potential AE occurred in 28.7% of patients, including hypoglycemia (20%), hypoactivity (6.1%), somnolence (3%), and vomiting (7.6%). A univariate analysis of the clinical characteristics of the AE and no AE groups showed a statistically significant difference in weight (P = 0.003) and age (P = 0.033). The concurrent use of topiramate was found to have a near‐significant association (P = 0.097) between the groups. The groups' urine ketone levels on all 5 days were compared, and a statistically significant difference was found on day 3 (P = 0.026). A statistically significant difference in the serum bicarbonate levels (P = 0.038) was found between the patients taking topiramate and those not taking it.

Significance

The incidence of AE during admission for KD initiation was found to be low. The AE either required no intervention or were easily managed with simple interventions. Thus, in carefully selected patients, it may be possible to initiate a KD at home if the parents are adequately prepared and monitored.
Identification of a Metabolic, Transcriptomic, and Molecular Signature of Patatin‐Like Phospholipase Domain Containing 3–Mediated Acceleration of Steatohepatitis
Authors: Banini Bubu A. , Kumar Divya P. , Cazanave Sophie , Seneshaw Mulugeta , Mirshahi Faridoddin , Santhekadur Prasanna K. , Wang Liangsu , Guan Hong Ping , Oseini Abdul M. , Alonso Cristina , Bedossa Pierre , Koduru Srinivas V. , Min Hae‐Ki , Sanyal Arun J.
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

The mechanisms by which the I148M mutant variant of the patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing 3 (PNPLA3I148M) drives development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are not known. The aim of this study was to obtain insights on mechanisms underlying PNPLA3I148M‐induced acceleration of NASH.

Approach and Results

Hepatocyte‐specific overexpression of empty vector (luciferase), human wild‐type PNPLA3, or PNPLA3I148M was achieved using adeno‐associated virus 8 in a diet‐induced mouse model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease followed by chow diet or high‐fat Western diet with ad libitum administration of sugar in drinking water (WDSW) for 8 weeks. Under WDSW, PNPLA3I148M overexpression accelerated steatohepatitis with increased steatosis, inflammation ballooning, and fibrosis (P < 0.001 versus other groups for all). Silencing PNPLA3I148M after its initial overexpression abrogated these findings. PNPLA3I148M caused 22:6n3 docosahexanoic acid depletion and increased ceramides under WDSW in addition to increasing triglycerides and diglycerides, especially enriched with unsaturated fatty acids. It also increased oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Increased total ceramides was associated with signature of transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation with downstream activation of multiple immune‐inflammatory pathways at a transcriptomic level by network analyses. Silencing PNPLA3I148M reversed STAT3 activation. Conditioned media from HepG2 cells overexpressing PNPLA3I148M increased procollagen mRNA expression in LX2 cells; this was abrogated by hepatocyte STAT3 inhibition.

Conclusions

Under WDSW, PNPLA3I148M overexpression promotes steatosis and NASH by metabolic reprogramming characterized by increased triglycerides and diglycerides, n3 polyunsaturated fatty acid depletion, and increased ceramides with resultant STAT3 phosphorylation and downstream inflammatory pathway activation driving increased stellate cell fibrogenic activity.
Comparison of Long‐Term Clinical Outcomes Between Spontaneous and Therapy‐Induced HBsAg Seroclearance
Authors: Choi Jonggi , Yoo Sun , Lim Young‐Suk
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

HBsAg seroclearance is considered a realistic goal in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), known as “functional cure.” However, it remains elusive whether nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC)‐induced HBsAg seroclearance, compared with spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance, differs in its association with favorable long‐term clinical outcomes.

Approach and Results

A total of 1,972 CHB patients with confirmed HBsAg seroclearance at least two consecutive times, 6 months apart, were retrospectively analyzed. Risks of HCC development and composite clinical events, including HCC, liver‐related death, and liver transplantation, were compared between spontaneous and NUC‐induced HBsAg seroclearance. Of 1,972 patients, mean patient age was 53.7 years, and 64.4% were men. Cirrhosis was present in 297 (15.1%) patients. HBsAg seroclearance was achieved spontaneously in 1,624 (82.4%) patients and by NUC treatment in 348 (17.6%). HCC developed in 49 patients, with an annual incidence of 0.38 of 100 person‐years (PY) during a median follow‐up of 5.6 years. With 336 propensity‐score–matched pairs, risks of HCC (P = 0.52) and clinical events (P = 0.14) were not significantly different between NUC‐induced and spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance. By multivariable analysis, NUC‐induced HBsAg seroclearance, compared with spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance, was not associated with the significantly higher risk of HCC (adjusted HR [AHR], 1.49; P = 0.26) and clinical events (AHR, 1.78; P = 0.06).

Conclusions

Risks of HCC and clinical events were not significantly different between spontaneous and NUC‐induced HBsAg seroclearance. Nonetheless, annual risk of HCC exceeds the recommended cutoff for HCC surveillance even after HBsAg seroclearance, suggesting that continued HCC surveillance is required.
Updated experience of a tertiary pandemic center on 533 pregnant women with COVID‐19 infection: A prospective cohort study from Turkey
Authors: Sahin Dilek , Tanacan Atakan , Erol Seyit A. , Anuk Ali T. , Yetiskin Fatma D.Y. , Keskin Huseyin L. , Ozcan Namik , Ozgu‐Erdinc A. Seval , Eyi Elif G.Y. , Yucel Aykan , Tayman Cuneyt , Unlu Serpil , Dinc Bedia , Sari Eyup , Surel Aziz A. , Moraloglu Ozlem T.
Published: November 2020

Objective

To investigate the clinical course and impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection on pregnant women.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted on pregnant women with confirmed COVID‐19 infection. Demographic features, clinical characteristics, and perinatal outcomes were prospectively evaluated.

Results

Of the 533 cases, 161 (30.2%) had co‐morbidities and 165 (30.9%) were asymptomatic. Cough (n = 178, 33.4%) and myalgia (n = 168, 31.5%) were the leading symptoms. In total, 261 patients (48.9%) received COVID‐19 therapy, 509 (95.5%) had mild disease, 7 (1.3%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), and invasive mechanical ventilation was necessary in 2 (0.4%) patients. Maternal mortality was observed in 2 (0.4%) cases. Of the patients, 297 (55.7%) were hospitalized, 39 (7.3%) had suspicious radiologic imaging findings, 66 (12.4) had pregnancy complications (preterm delivery [n =22, 4.1%] and miscarriage [n =12, 2.2%] were the most common pregnancy complications), 131 births occurred, and the cesarean section rate was 66.4%. All neonates were negative for COVID‐19. The rate of admission to the neonatal ICU was 9.9%. One specimen of breast milk was positive for the infection.

Conclusion

The course of COVID‐19 was mild in the majority of cases. However, increased rates of pregnancy complications and cesarean delivery were observed.
Smartphone‐based multimodal tethered capsule endoscopic platform for white‐light, narrow‐band, and fluorescence/autofluorescence imaging
Authors: Sharma Gargi , Thoma Oana‐Maria , Blessing Katharina , Gal Robert , Waldner Maximilian , Singh Kanwarpal
Published: November 2020

Multimodal low‐cost endoscopy is highly desirable in poor resource settings such as in developing nations. In this work, we developed a smartphone‐based low‐cost, reusable tethered capsule endoscopic platform that allows white‐light, narrowband, and fluorescence/autofluorescence imaging of the esophagus. The ex‐vivo studies of swine esophagus were performed and compared with a commercial endoscope to test the white‐light imaging capabilities of the endoscope. The efficacy of the capsule for narrow‐band imaging was tested by imaging the vascularization of the tongue. To determine the autofluorescence/fluorescence capability of the endoscope, fluorescein dye with different concentrations was imaged. Furthermore, swine esophagus injected with fluorescein dye was imaged using the fluorescence/autofluorescence and the white‐light imaging modules, ex‐vivo. The overall cost of the capsules is approximately 12 €, 15 €, and 42 € for the white light imaging, the narrow‐band imaging, and the fluorescence/autofluorescence imaging respectively. In addition, the cost of the laser source module required for the narrow‐band imaging and the fluorescence/autofluorescence imaging is approximately 218 €. This device will open the possibility of imaging the esophagus in underprivileged areas.
Facile fabrication of elastic, macro‐porous, and fast vascularized silicone orbital implant
Authors: Xu Peifang , Cao Jing , Feng Xue , Gao Qi , Lee Sang Yeul , Ye Juan
Published: November 2020

Orbital implants with interconnected porous architecture had gained prominence, as they were capable of being colonized by fibrovascular tissue and minimizing complications. However, mechanical properties of orbital implant had received little attention among existing design philosophy. Herein, a compliant porous silicone scaffold was developed by gelatin porogen‐leaching method and used as the orbital implant in this study. The silicone scaffolds exhibited desired microstructure and simulated mechanical properties, including high porosity of ~90%, suitable pore size of 280–450 μm, reduced modulus of 50.1 ± 11.7 KPa, and excellent elasticity. in vitro results showed that the porous silicone scaffolds did not exhibit noticeable cytotoxicity and were favorable for both adhesion and proliferation of human vascular ECs. The porous silicone scaffold was easy to be manipulated when implanted into the anophthalmic sockets of rabbits. The implanted scaffolds provided satisfactory volume replacement and induced extensive fibro‐vascularization, showing desirable orbital reconstruction effects. Therefore, our novel porous silicone scaffolds may be promising substitutes for current orbital implants.
The Canadian genetic counseling workforce: Perspectives from employers and recent graduates
Authors: Costa Taylor , Gillies Brittany , Oh Tracey , Scott Jenna
Published: November 2020

There is a lack of literature devoted to the Canadian genetic counseling workforce. Current and prospective genetic counseling students, graduates, employers, programs, and funding agencies remain largely uninformed of trends in the job market. The purpose of this study was to investigate the employment experiences of recent Canadian genetic counseling graduates and employers of genetic counselors (GCs) in Canada. An online survey was distributed to Canadians who had graduated from North American genetic counseling programs from 2014 to 2018 and to employers with experience hiring patient‐facing genetic counselors from 2016 to 2018. Quantitative data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and, where appropriate, logistic regression. Qualitative data were reviewed to illustrate and support the quantitative data. Half of the employer responders (11/22) reported hiring more or many more genetic counselors compared to 3 years ago (2016), and a majority (n = 19, 86%) reported a desire to hire at least one more genetic counselor if funding were available. Most graduates (45/70, 64%) reported securing employment before graduation, 33% (n = 23) within 6 months of graduation, and no one taking longer than 1 year. For recent graduates, location was the most important factor when looking for work, and those who chose to work in Canada experienced significantly more challenges gaining employment as opposed to those who worked internationally (p = 0.03). The specialties in highest demand for genetic counselors and the most common areas of practice for recent graduates included adult general genetics, prenatal genetics, and cancer genetics. Overall, our findings suggest that there is a growth of employment opportunities in Canada and more employer‐reported need for clinical genetic counselors; however, there is a lack of funding to support this expansion.
Assessing clinical education tools for expanded carrier screening
Authors: Dugger Chloe , Anderson Hannah S. , Miller Christine E. , Wong Bob , Johnson Erin P. , Rothwell Erin
Published: November 2020

Expanded carrier screening (ECS) is increasingly offered to a broader population and raises challenges of how to best educate and counsel the volume of screened individuals. For this study, we compared three educational tools (brochure, video and comic) about ECS on knowledge and decision making. A convenience online sample of 151 pregnant women was randomized to one of three groups (Video, n = 42; Comic n = 54; Brochure n = 55). Knowledge scores were significantly higher for the comic group compared to the video or the brochure groups (p < .001). No significant differences in preparation for decision making, decisional conflict, or perceptions of shared decision making were identified between the study groups. This study suggests that a comic about ECS may improve patient attention and retention of information. The use of graphic narratives may enable individuals to better understand medical information in general.
Rapid genome‐wide sequencing in a neonatal intensive care unit: A retrospective qualitative exploration of parental experiences
Authors: Aldridge Caitlin E. , Osiovich Horacio , (Hal) Siden Harold ,   RAPIDOMICS Study,   GenCOUNSEL Study, Elliott Alison M.
Published: November 2020

Genome‐wide sequencing (GWS) is increasingly being used in neonatal intensive care units. While studies have explored its clinical utility, little is known about parental experiences with this testing post‐return of results. We conducted a qualitative study, using an interpretive description framework and thematic analysis, to gain further insight into parents’ perceptions of the value and utility of GWS for their infant. We sought to explore whether parents’ perceptions differ if their child received a diagnosis or not, and whether their child is living or deceased. Semi‐structured, telephone interviews were conducted with parents of infants who had rapid exome sequencing while in the neonatal intensive care unit at BC Women's Hospital in Vancouver, Canada. Interviews addressed perceived benefits and harms of GWS and included an evaluation of decisional regret. Parents of 27 probands were approached and 14 (52%; 13 mothers and 1 father) participated in interviews. On average, 26 months had elapsed from the time of results to the interview. Six themes were identified. Firstly, parents had a positive regard for GWS. The results of GWS helped provide context for their child's admission to the NICU, and all parents experienced relief following receiving the results. A diagnosis by GWS enabled parents to picture the future, form connections with other parents, and coordinate their child's care. Lastly, some parents experienced discomfort with the concept of a genetic diagnosis, and interestingly felt lack of a genomic diagnosis indicated a reduced severity of their infant's condition. Decisional regret post‐results was found to be low. Our results highlight how parents cope with the results of GWS and suggest that a genetic counselor can have an important role in helping families understand and adjust to these results in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Improved Characterization of Diffusion in Normal and Cancerous Prostate Tissue Through Optimization of Multicompartmental Signal Models
Authors: Conlin Christopher C. , Feng Christine H. , Rodriguez‐Soto Ana E. , Karunamuni Roshan A. , Kuperman Joshua M. , Holland Dominic , Rakow‐Penner Rebecca , Hahn Michael E. , Seibert Tyler M. , Dale Anders M.
Published: November 2020

Background

Multicompartmental modeling outperforms conventional diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in the assessment of prostate cancer. Optimized multicompartmental models could further improve the detection and characterization of prostate cancer.

Purpose

To optimize multicompartmental signal models and apply them to study diffusion in normal and cancerous prostate tissue in vivo.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Forty‐six patients who underwent MRI examination for suspected prostate cancer; 23 had prostate cancer and 23 had no detectable cancer.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T multishell diffusion‐weighted sequence.

Assessment

Multicompartmental models with 2–5 tissue compartments were fit to DWI data from the prostate to determine optimal compartmental apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs). These ADCs were used to compute signal contributions from the different compartments. The Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and model‐fitting residuals were calculated to quantify model complexity and goodness‐of‐fit. Tumor contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) and tumor‐to‐background signal intensity ratio (SIR) were computed for conventional DWI and multicompartmental signal‐contribution maps.

Statistical Tests

Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and two‐sample t‐tests (α = 0.05) were used to compare fitting residuals between prostate regions and between multicompartmental models. T‐tests (α = 0.05) were also used to assess differences in compartmental signal‐fraction between tissue types and CNR/SIR between conventional DWI and multicompartmental models.

Results

The lowest BIC was observed from the 4‐compartment model, with optimal ADCs of 5.2e‐4, 1.9e‐3, 3.0e‐3, and >3.0e‐2 mm2/sec. Fitting residuals from multicompartmental models were significantly lower than from conventional ADC mapping (P < 0.05). Residuals were lowest in the peripheral zone and highest in tumors. Tumor tissue showed the largest reduction in fitting residual by increasing model order. Tumors had a greater proportion of signal from compartment 1 than normal tissue (P < 0.05). Tumor CNR and SIR were greater on compartment‐1 signal maps than conventional DWI (P < 0.05) and increased with model order.

Data Conclusion

The 4‐compartment signal model best described diffusion in the prostate. Compartmental signal contributions revealed by this model may improve assessment of prostate cancer.

Level of Evidence 3

Technical Efficacy Stage 3

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2021;53:628–639.
Bioökonomie: Aus Resten schöpfen
Authors: Riedel Sebastian L. , Junne Stefan
Published: November 2020

Anaerobe Gärverfahren mit anschließenden Reinkulturprozessen erzeugen Chemikalien aus biogenen Rohstoffen. Beispiel für ein Kreislaufwirtschaftskonzept ist biologisch abbaubares Plastik aus Abfallfetten. Das Verfahren lässt sich modifizieren, um bestimmte Eigenschaften zu erzielen. Die Nutzung von Reststoffen erzeugt regionale Stoffkreisläufe.
Bild ohne Spiegelbild
Authors: Vilotijevic Ivan , Duong Michael , Lange Markus
Published: November 2020

Die enantiokonvergente Katalyse ermöglicht, aus racemischen Edukten enantiomerenangereicherte Verbindungen herzustellen. Anders als die kinetische Racematspaltung basiert sie auf alten Konzepten und neuen Methoden, die Ausbeuten über 50 Prozent liefern.
Vom Magnesium zum Haber‐Bosch‐Verfahren
Authors: Dittmer Mareike , Homeyer Marc Sören , Duvinage Brigitte
Published: November 2020

Für die Ammoniaksynthese, so wie sie Anfang des 20. Jahrhunderts als großtechnischer Prozess entwickelt wurde, gibt es Modellexperimente. Diese lassen Lernende auch die historische Entwicklung nachvollziehen.
Tausendsassa der Elemente
Authors: Gröger Harald , Martens Jürgen , Offermann Heribert
Published: November 2020

Organische Schwefelchemie: Ein kleiner, subjektiver Ausschnitt aus Alltag und Synthesechemie, der die Vielfalt dieses Chalkogenids zeigt.
Biogene Produkte: Guter Geschmack aus Holz
Authors: Waldvogel Siegfried R. , Breiner Manuel
Published: November 2020

Bei der petrochemischen Vanillinproduktion entstehen giftige Abfälle. Ohne sie stellt ein elektrochemisches Verfahren die Aromachemikalie in hoher Qualität her. Und das aus Lignin, das aus Nebenströmen der Zellstoffindustrie stammt.
Ein Faible für Kolloide
Authors: Reschetilowski Wladimir , Beyer Lothar
Published: November 2020

Alfred Lottermoser, dessen 150. Geburtstag und 75. Todestag in diesem Jahr begangen werden, gehört zu den Pionieren der Kolloidchemie. Das erste Institut für Kolloidchemie in Deutschland – gegründet an der TH Dresden im Jahr 1923 – geht auf seine Initiative zurück.
Magnetische Wechselwirkungen quantenchemisch charakterisieren, Trendbericht Theoretische Chemie 2020, Teil 2
Authors: Krewald Vera
Published: November 2020

Bedingt durch die steigende Relevanz elektronischer Resonanzen gewinnen nichthermitesche Methoden zunehmende Bedeutung für die Quantenchemie. Außerdem: Da magnetische Wechselwirkungen jenseits des Ferromagnetismus komplex sein können, ist ein Verständnis für die zugrundeliegenden physikalischen Prinzipien und chemischen Konzepte zu entwickeln. Dabei helfen beispielsweise Dichtefunktionaltheorie und Multireferenzmethoden. Und um die Spinzustände zu analysieren, die aus magnetischer Kopplung entstehen, eignen sich etwa Orbitalentropiemaße.
Quantendynamik offener Systeme, Trendbericht Theoretische Chemie 2020, Teil 3
Authors: Fingerhut Benjamin
Published: November 2020

Bedingt durch die steigende Relevanz elektronischer Resonanzen gewinnen nichthermitesche Methoden zunehmende Bedeutung für die Quantenchemie. Außerdem: Da magnetische Wechselwirkungen jenseits des Ferromagnetismus komplex sein können, ist ein Verständnis für die zugrundeliegenden physikalischen Prinzipien und chemischen Konzepte zu entwickeln. Dabei helfen beispielsweise Dichtefunktionaltheorie und Multireferenzmethoden. Und um die Spinzustände zu analysieren, die aus magnetischer Kopplung entstehen, eignen sich etwa Orbitalentropiemaße.
Fair teilen
Authors: Dyga Marco , Rudolphi Felix , Gooßen Lukas J.
Published: November 2020

Das Repositorium Sciflection ermöglicht es, Experimente und Analytikdaten per Mausklick aus einem elektronischen Laborjournal zu veröffentlichen. Wie die Datenbank Scifinder enthält es eine strukturintelligente Suchfunktion.
25 Jahre Ringversuche zur Wasseranalytik am IFA‐Tulln
Authors: Kandler Wolfgang
Published: November 2020

Seit Mai 2020 ist die Universität für Bodenkultur Wien am Standort IFA‐Tulln als Anbieter von Eignungsprüfungen akkreditiert.
Pestizide anders verwenden
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: November 2020

Hersteller von Pflanzenschutzmitteln und Bioziden wollen den grünen Deal der Europäischen Union unterstützen.
Gemischte Aussichten
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: November 2020

Die Branchenverbände melden Verluste bei den Laborzulieferern während der Pandemie. Die Unternehmen bleiben dennoch zuversichtlich.
Immunosuppression trends in solid organ transplantation: The future of individualization, monitoring, and management
Authors: Pilch Nicole A. , Bowman Lyndsey J. , Taber David J.
Published: November 2020

Immunosuppression regimens used in solid organ transplant have evolved significantly over the past 70 years in the United States. Early immunosuppression and targets for allograft success were measured by incidence and severity of allograft rejection and 1‐year patient survival. The limited number of agents, infancy of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching techniques and lack of understanding of immunoreactivity limited the early development of effective regimens. The 1980s and 1990s saw incredible advancements in these areas, with acute rejection rates halving in a short span of time. However, the constant struggle to achieve the optimal balance between under‐ and overimmunosuppression is weaved throughout the history of transplant immunosuppression. The aim of this paper is to discuss the different eras of immunosuppression and highlight the important milestones that were achieved while also discussing this in the context of rational agent selection and regimen design. This discussion sets the stage for how we can achieve optimal long‐term outcomes during the next era of immunosuppression, which will move from universal protocols to patient‐specific optimization.
Ethanol‐soluble proteins from the royal jelly of Xinjiang black bees
Authors: Yuan Yanyan , Wang Wujun , Fan Ruru , Jiang Jianhui , Feng Shan , Yin Huiwei , Luo Shi‐Zhong , Chen Long
Published: November 2020

Royal jelly is a nutritious food that has beneficial effects to human health. However, the functional substances remain unclear. Herein, we fractioned the royal jelly proteins of Xinjing black bees according to the Osboren method. Two main proteins from the ethanol‐soluble fraction were purified and identified. RJG‐1 was determined as glucosylceramidase, and RJG‐2 was major royal jelly protein 1 (MRJP1). RJG‐1 showed potent cytotoxicity toward various mammalian cells, and caused quick disruption of cell membranes. With glucosylceramidase activity, RJG‐1 may degrade the glucosylceramide of the cell membranes and disrupt the membrane structure, thereby resulting in cell necrosis. This study extends our knowledge about the composition and function of royal jelly, and is significant for the application of royal jelly.
Reexamining investor reaction to covert corporate political activity: A replication and extension of Werner (2017)
Authors: Minefee Ishva , McDonnell Mary‐Hunter , Werner Timothy
Published: November 2020

Research Summary

Exploiting a whistleblower's leak of the American Legislative Exchange Council's (ALEC) corporate sponsors, we quasi‐replicate and extend Werner's (2017) event study of investor reaction to covert corporate political activity (CPA). Werner found that investors reacted positively to the accidental disclosure of covert ties to the Republican Governors Association. In contrast, when we apply the same research design to the ALEC leak, we find that, on average, firms tied to ALEC experienced negative abnormal returns. In cross‐sectional models, we also find that the abnormal returns of ALEC sponsors were more negative for firms that faced shareholder contention around CPA and had liberal‐leaning employees, yet less negative for firms engaged in higher levels of institutional corporate social responsibility. The latter two cross‐sectional findings extend Werner's results.

Managerial Summary

We replicate and extend a study that examined how investors reacted to the disclosure of firms' covert contributions to a conservative‐leaning nonprofit organization. In contrast to that paper, we find that investors react negatively toward firms that contributed to ALEC, given its controversial positions on sociopolitical issues such as “stand your ground” gun laws. Investors reacted more negatively if the firm's employees were more liberal leaning or if the firm recently faced a shareholder resolution requesting that it voluntarily disclose all political contributions. However, investors' reactions were less negative if the firm engaged in high levels of corporate social responsibility. An implication for managers is that they should consider the risk associated with their firms' covert ties to political organizations perceived as controversial by the media.