bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of herpesviruses and enteroviruses in patients with suspected infectious meningoencephalitis in three referral hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon
Authors: Tagnouokam‐Ngoupo Paul Alain , Toby Roselyne , Bomba Ebede Michelle Olivia , Kenmoe Sebastien , Ngo‐Malabo Elodie Teclaire , Sadeuh‐Mba Serge Alain , Biwole‐Sida Magloire , Njouom Richard
Published: June 2020

In Cameroon, routine diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) infections is based on the detection of bacteria, fungi, parasites, and mycobacteria in cerebrospinal fluids. Therefore, there is no data on viral etiologies of meningoencephalitis (ME) in the country. We aim to identify viral etiologies (herpesviruses and enteroviruses) of ME in Cameroon, to provide useful information to physicians that will help improving management of ME. From February to May 2018, adult patients with clinical signs of ME in three referral hospitals in Yaounde were included. Detection of herpesviruses and enteroviruses was performed using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. P value of 5% was chosen as the threshold for statistical significance in statistical analyses. Eighty‐one patients were included and 15 (18.51%) were positive for herpesviruses. No enterovirus was detected. The most prevalent virus was Epstein‐Barr virus (8.6%) and most of herpesviruses were detected from human immunodefeciency virus (HIV)‐positive patients (86.7%). The overall mortality rate was high, 60.5% (49/81) and analysis of risk factors showed that HIV‐positive status and altered state of consciousness were associated with higher risk of death (odds ratio [OR], 5.41; confidence interval [CI]: 1.91‐16.88; P = .002 and OR, 3.24; CI: 1.11‐0.13; P = .036 respectively). We showed that herpesviruses are present in patients with ME symptoms in Yaounde and can be sometimes in coinfection with others common pathogens of CNS infections. There is therefore a need for increased clinician awareness and education regarding the diagnostic and management of CNS infections in Cameroon to limit unnecessary use of antibiotics.
Understanding the possible origin and genotyping of the first Bangladeshi SARS‐CoV‐2 strain
Authors: Alam A. S. M. Rubayet Ul , Islam M. Rafiul , Rahman M. Shaminur , Islam Ovinu Kibria , Hossain M. Anwar
Published: June 2020

The novel coronavirus, SARS‐CoV‐2, has caused the most unfathomable pandemic in the history of humankind. Bangladesh is also a victim of this critical situation. To investigate the genomic features of the pathogen from Bangladesh, the first complete genome of the virus has very recently been published. Therefore, long‐awaited questions regarding the possible origin and typing of the strain(s) can now be answered. Here, we endeavor to mainly discuss the published reports or online‐accessed data (results) regarding those issues and present a comprehensive picture of the typing of the virus alongside the probable origin of the subclade containing the Bangladeshi strain. Our observation suggested that this strain might have originated from the United Kingdom or the other European countries epidemiologically linked to the United Kingdom. According to different genotyping classification schemes, this strain belongs to the A2a clade under the G major clade, is of B and/or L type, and is a SARS‐CoV‐2a substrain. In the future, randomized genomic data will certainly increase in Bangladesh, however because of globalization and immigrant movement, we urgently need a mass regional sequencing approach targeting the partial or complete genome that can link the epidemiological data and may help in further clinical intervention.
High‐coverage SARS‐CoV‐2 genome sequences acquired by target capture sequencing
Authors: Wen Shaoqing , Sun Chang , Zheng Huanying , Wang Lingxiang , Zhang Huan , Zou Lirong , Liu Zhe , Du Panxin , Xu Xuding , Liang Lijun , Peng Xiaofang , Zhang Wei , Wu Jie , Yang Jiyuan , Lei Bo , Zeng Guangyi , Ke Changwen , Chen Fang , Zhang Xiao
Published: June 2020

In this study, we designed a set of SARS‐CoV‐2 enrichment probes to increase the capacity for sequence‐based virus detection and obtain the comprehensive genome sequence at the same time. This universal SARS‐CoV‐2 enrichment probe set contains 502 120 nt single‐stranded DNA biotin‐labeled probes designed based on all available SARS‐CoV‐2 viral sequences and it can be used to enrich for SARS‐CoV‐2 sequences without prior knowledge of type or subtype. Following the CDC health and safety guidelines, marked enrichment was demonstrated in a virus strain sample from cell culture, three nasopharyngeal swab samples (cycle threshold [Ct] values: 32.36, 36.72, and 38.44) from patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 (positive control) and four throat swab samples from patients without COVID‐19 (negative controls), respectively. Moreover, based on these high‐quality sequences, we discuss the heterozygosity and viral expression during coronavirus replication and its phylogenetic relationship with other selected high‐quality samples from the Genome Variation Map. Therefore, this universal SARS‐CoV‐2 enrichment probe system can capture and enrich SARS‐CoV‐2 viral sequences selectively and effectively in different samples, especially clinical swab samples with a relatively low concentration of viral particles.
SARS‐CoV‐2: A comprehensive review from pathogenicity of the virus to clinical consequences
Authors: Lotfi Melika , Rezaei Nima
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), which caused novel coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pandemic, is the worldwide challenge. The virus is highly contagious, and clinical consequences were very divers. It is estimated that if no effective action is taken, COVID‐19 could plague 90% of the world's population and kill over 40 million people. So, it is essential to understand the virus pathogenicity and follow the preventive methods to control the high morbidity and mortality rates. Meanwhile our current knowledge of COVID‐19 is still limited, despite hard efforts of scientists and clinicians during last few months. In this review article, we have collected the latest data about characteristics, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic methods of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Validation of PATHFx 2.0: An open‐source tool for estimating survival in patients undergoing pathologic fracture fixation
Authors: Overmann Archie L. , Clark DesRaj M. , Tsagkozis Panagiotis , Wedin Rikard , Forsberg Jonathan A.
Published: June 2020

Treatment decisions in patients with metastatic bone disease rely on accurate survival estimation. We developed the original PATHFx models using expensive, proprietary software and now seek to provide a more cost‐effective solution. Using open‐source machine learning software to create PATHFx version 2.0, we asked whether PATHFx 2.0 could be created using open‐source methods and externally validated in two unique patient populations. The training set of a well‐characterized, database records of 189 patients and the bnlearn package within R Version 3.5.1 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing), was used to establish a series of Bayesian belief network models designed to predict survival at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Each was externally validated in both a Scandinavian (n = 815 patients) and a Japanese (n = 261 patients) data set. Brier scores and receiver operating characteristic curves to assessed discriminatory ability. Decision curve analysis (DCA) evaluated whether models should be used clinically. DCA showed that the model should be used clinically at all time points in the Scandinavian data set. For the 1‐month time point, DCA of the Japanese data set suggested to expect better outcomes assuming all patients will survive greater than 1 month. Brier scores for each curve demonstrate that the models are accurate at each time point. Statement of Clinical Significance: we successfully transitioned to PATHFx 2.0 using open‐source software and externally validated it in two unique patient populations, which can be used as a cost‐effective option to guide surgical decisions in patients with metastatic bone disease.
Advances in cultivar choice, hazelnut orchard management, and nut storage to enhance product quality and safety: an overview
Authors: Silvestri Cristian , Bacchetta Loretta , Bellincontro Andrea , Cristofori Valerio
Published: June 2020

European hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is a major species of interest for nutritional use within the Betulaceae family and its nuts are widely used throughout the world in the chocolate, confectionery, and bakery industries. Recently its cultivation has been expanded in traditional producer countries and established in new places in the southern hemisphere, including Chile, South Africa, and Australia. Introducing hazelnut in new environments could reduce its productivity, lead the trees to experience eco‐physiological disorders, and expose the crop to high pressure from common and new pests and diseases. Thus, new approaches in cultivar choice guidance, in the sustainable orchard management and even in nut storage and kernel quality evaluation are urgently required to improve the hazelnut production and processing chain. The main objective of this study was to systematize the published information regarding recent findings about the cultural operations that directly influence nut and kernel quality, support varietal choice for new plantations, and list the recent advances in nut storage and in quality and safety evaluation. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Use of Shear Wave Elastography for Quantitative Assessment of Muscle Stiffness After Botulinum Toxin Injection in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Bertan Huseyin , Oncu Julide , Vanli Ersin , Alptekin Kerem , Sahillioglu Ali , Kuran Banu , Yilmaz Figen
Published: June 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the stiffness of the gastrocnemius (GC) muscle with acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography after botulinum toxin‐A (BTX‐A) injection in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) and to examine the relationship between elastographic and clinical parameters.

Methods

This prospective randomized single‐blind controlled clinical study included 49 lower extremities of 33 children with spastic CP. They were randomized into 2 groups: group 1 (n = 25 extremities in 17 children) received BTX‐A injection and a home‐based exercise program; group 2 (n = 24 extremities in 16 children) received only a home‐based exercise program. Patients were evaluated in pretreatment and posttreatment periods in the first and third months with ARFI elastography, the Modified Ashworth Scale, Modified Tardieu Scale, Pediatric Functional Independence Measure, Gross Motor Function Classification System, and goniometric range of motion measurement of the ankle.

Results

A statistically significant difference was found in elastography of the GC muscle in group 1 only at the first month after treatment (P < .05). No statistical difference was found in elastography of the GC after treatment in group 2. According to the Modified Ashworth Scale, Modified Tardieu Scale, and ankle passive range of motion, group 1 showed significant improvements after treatment (P < .05). Also, there was a significant correlation between these clinical parameters and elastographic measurements (P < .05).

Conclusions

According to the results of this study, the measurements from ARFI elastography combined with clinical parameters might be useful for evaluation of spasticity after BTX‐A treatment in children with CP. Also, they might be useful in distinguishing patients who will benefit clinically, especially in the early stages of treatment.
Two hits to the renin‐angiotensin system may play a key role in severe COVID‐19
Authors: Tseng Yu‐Hsin , Yang Rei‐Cheng , Lu Tzong‐Shi
Published: June 2020

The spike glycoprotein on the virion surface docking onto the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) 2 dimer is an essential step in the process of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in human cells—involves downregulation of ACE2 expression with systemic renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) imbalance and promotion of multi‐organ damage. In general, the RAS induces vasoconstriction, hypertension, inflammation, fibrosis, and proliferation via the ACE/Ang II/Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R) axis and induces the opposite effects via the ACE2/Ang (1‐7)/Mas axis. The RAS may be activated by chronic inflammation in hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. SARS‐CoV‐2 induces the ACE2 internalization and shedding, leading to the inactivation of the ACE2/Ang (1‐7)/Mas axis. Therefore, we hypothesize that two hits to the RAS drives COVID‐19 progression. In brief, the first hit originates from chronic inflammation activating the ACE/Ang II/AT1R axis, and the second originates from the COVID‐19 infection inactivating the ACE2/Ang (1‐7)/Mas axis. Moreover, the two hits to the RAS may be the primary reason for increased mortality in patients with COVID‐19 who have comorbidities and may serve as a therapeutic target for COVID‐19 treatment.
Down regulation of miR‐218, miR‐124, and miR‐144 relates to Parkinson's disease via activating NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Xing Rui‐Xian , Li Long‐Guang , Liu Xue‐Wen , Tian Bu‐Xian , Cheng Yan
Published: June 2020

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurological degenerative disorder that is partially induced by inflammation in the neural system. To explore the roles of disordered microRNAs in the development of PD, we screened 10 miRNAs in the brain samples of 15 postmortem PD patients and 10 postmortem healthy controls by qRT‐PCR. The direct targets of miRNAs were predicted by informatics tools and further confirmed by dual luciferase assay and immunoblotting. The function of miRNAs in regulating NF‐κB/p65 translocation was examined by immunoblotting, and the overactivation of NF‐κB signaling was examined by ELISA. The relationship between dysregulated miRNAs and cytokines was analyzed by correlation analysis. Three miRNAs were found to be reduced in the brains of patients with PD. KPNB1, KPNA3, and KPNA4 were identified as direct targets of miR‐218, miR‐124, and miR‐144. Additionally, KPNA3 was identified as a direct target of miR‐124, and KPNA4 was a direct target of both miR‐124 and miR‐218. The p65 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus was repressed by miR‐124, miR‐218, and miR‐144 in the SH‐SY5Y cells. The NF‐κB signaling pathway was overactivated after miRNA inhibitor transfection. The upregulation of KPNB1, KPNA3, and KPNA4 in the brain samples of PD patients was confirmed by immunoblotting, and negative correlations were found between dysregulated miRNAs and cytokines. In conclusion, we identified that the downregulation of miR‐218, miR‐124, and miR‐144 in the brain was related to PD via activation of NF‐κB signaling, helping to unveil the role played by dysregulated miRNAs in the pathogenesis of PD and provide new potential targets for PD treatment.
Metabolism in tumor microenvironment: Implications for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Shi Rongchen , Tang Yi‐Quan , Miao Hongming
Published: June 2020

Tumor microenvironment is a special environment for tumor survival, which is characterized by hypoxia, acidity, nutrient deficiency, and immunosuppression. The environment consists of the vasculature, immune cells, extracellular matrix, and proteins or metabolic molecules. A large number of recent studies have shown that not only tumor cells but also the immune cells in the tumor microenvironment have undergone metabolic reprogramming, which is closely related to tumor drug resistance and malignant progression. Tumor immunotherapy based on T cells gives patients new hope, but faces the dilemma of low response rate. New strategies sensitizing cancer immunotherapy are urgently needed. Metabolic reprogramming can directly affect the biological activity of tumor cells and also regulate the differentiation and activation of immune cells. The authors aim to review the characteristics of tumor microenvironment, the metabolic changes of tumor‐associated immune cells, and the regulatory role of metabolic reprogramming in cancer immunotherapy.
Identification of a novel pathogenic MLH1 mutation and recommended genetic screening strategy: An investigation of three Chinese Lynch syndrome pedigrees
Authors: Li Fan , Xia Yunwei , Wang Guoguang , Tang Chaoyang , Zhan Tian , Shen Jian , Zhang Jianping
Published: June 2020

Background

Lynch syndrome (LS) is an autosomal‐dominant disorder that increases the risk of many cancers. The genetic basis of LS is germline mutations in DNA mismatch repair genes.

Methods

We performed next‐generation sequencing on blood cells obtained from the members of three unrelated LS pedigrees. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed to analyze protein expression.

Results

Multigene panel screening revealed three mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) pathogenic mutations (c.199G>A, c.790 + 1G>A, and c.1557_1558 + 8delGGGTACGTAA, unreported) confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Immunohistochemistry showed a loss of MLH1 protein expression. We also confirmed that the unreported mutant allele was inherited for at least three generations.

Conclusion

These results provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenicity of MLH1 mutations and reaffirm the importance of genetic screening for the early diagnosis of LS.
Intellectual disability in two Chinese sisters caused by a 3p26.3p25.3 microdeletion and a 14q32.13q32.33 microduplication inherited from the mother with 46, XX, t (3, 14) (p25; q32)
Authors: Dai Ying , Wei Yongjuan , Chen Yuanyuan , Guo Hui , Zhong Min
Published: June 2020

Background

Genetic factors associated with intellectual disability (ID) include chromosomal aberrations, copy number variations (CNVs), and pathogenic variants. Identifying the genetic etiologies is beneficial for patient classification, therapy, management, and prognostic evaluation. Emerging genetic tests are helpful in identifying these genetic causes.

Methods

We enrolled two girl siblings with ID. Trio whole‐exome sequencing (WES) and Copy number variation sequencing (CNV‐Seq) were performed for genetic molecular analysis in these probands and their parents. The parents also accepted high‐resolution G‐banded karyotype studies.

Results

No significant homozygous or heterozygous variants were identified through WES. By CNV‐seq, we identified an abnormal 3p26.3p25.3 microdeletion and 14q32.13q32.33 microduplication in the two girl siblings but not in their parents. A balanced translocation 46, XX, t (3, 14) (p25; q32) was found in their mother.

Conclusion

The affected siblings have similar phenotype, including ID, short stature, and microcephaly. Their mother had a history of seven first‐trimester miscarriages and one elective termination because of multiple malformations. This abnormal karyotype was also thought to be responsible for the mother's recurrent miscarriage. WES in combination with CNV‐seq analysis is very helpful for identification of the genetic causes of ID without positive karyotype findings.
Miniaturized antenna using DGS and meander structure for dual‐band application
Authors: Swetha Avula , Naidu Kurukundu Rama
Published: June 2020

In this article, the design of a miniaturized planar antenna using defected ground structure (DGS) and meander line structure for C and X‐band applications is presented. A novel star‐shaped and a rectangle DGS created on the ground plane of lambda/4 fed planar antenna and its effect on the size reduction performance is analyzed. Initially, a simple basic antenna (antenna‐1) operates at 14.9 GHz with a reflection coefficient (S11) of −34.56 dB is designed. To achieve miniaturization of 51.27% and 36.77% an antenna is designed by DGS and meander line structure (antenna‐2), which operates at dual‐band frequencies 7.26 and 9.42 GHz with a reflection coefficient (S11) of −32.91 and −22.84 dB, respectively, is presented. The suggested antenna is fabricated on a 1.6 mm thickness of FR4 Epoxy substrate to achieve a reasonable peak gain and directivity of 3.64 and 5.94 dBi at 7.26 GHz, 3.23 and 5.44 dBi at 9.42 GHz, respectively, is achieved.
Whole‐heart, ungated, free‐breathing, cardiac‐phase‐resolved myocardial perfusion MRI by using Continuous Radial Interleaved simultaneous Multi‐slice acquisitions at sPoiled steady‐state (CRIMP)
Authors: Tian Ye , Mendes Jason , Wilson Brent , Ross Alexander , Ranjan Ravi , DiBella Edward , Adluru Ganesh
Published: June 2020

Purpose

To develop a whole‐heart, free‐breathing, non‐electrocardiograph (ECG)‐gated, cardiac‐phase‐resolved myocardial perfusion MRI framework (CRIMP; Continuous Radial Interleaved simultaneous Multi‐slice acquisitions at sPoiled steady‐state) and test its quantification feasibility.

Methods

CRIMP used interleaved radial simultaneous multi‐slice (SMS) slice groups to cover the whole heart in 9 or 12 short‐axis slices. The sequence continuously acquired data without magnetization preparation, ECG gating or breath‐holding, and captured multiple cardiac phases. Images were reconstructed by a motion‐compensated patch‐based locally low‐rank reconstruction. Bloch simulations were performed to study the signal‐to‐noise ratio/contrast‐to‐noise ratio (SNR/CNR) for CRIMP and to study the steady‐state signal under motion. Seven patients were scanned with CRIMP at stress and rest to develop the sequence. One human and two dogs were scanned at rest with a dual‐bolus method to test the quantification feasibility of CRIMP. The dual‐bolus scans were performed using both CRIMP and an ungated radial SMS saturation recovery (SMS‐SR) sequence with injection dose = 0.075 mmol/kg to compare the sequences in terms of SNR, cardiac phase resolution and quantitative myocardial blood flow (MBF).

Results

Perfusion images with multiple cardiac phases in all image slices with a temporal resolution of 72 ms/frame were obtained. Simulations and in‐vivo acquisitions showed CRIMP kept the inner slices in steady‐state regardless of motion. CRIMP outperformed SMS‐SR in slice coverage (9 over 6), SNR (mean 20% improvement), and provided cardiac phase resolution. CRIMP and SMS‐SR sequences provided comparable MBF values (rest systolic CRIMP = 0.58 ± 0.07, SMS‐SR = 0.61 ± 0.16).

Conclusion

CRIMP allows for whole‐heart, cardiac‐phase‐resolved myocardial perfusion images without ECG‐gating or breath‐holding. The sequence can provide MBF if an accurate arterial input function is obtained separately.
Ethical Framework for Nutrition Support Resource Allocation During Shortages: Lessons From COVID‐19
Authors: Barrocas Albert , Schwartz Denise Baird , Hasse Jeanette M. , Seres David S. , Mueller Charles M.
Published: June 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has impacted all aspects of our population. The “Troubling Trichotomy” of what can be done technologically, what should be done ethically, and what must be done legally is a reality during these unusual circumstances. Recent ethical considerations regarding allocation of scarce resources, such as mechanical ventilators, have been proposed. These can apply to other disciplines such as nutrition support, although decisions regarding nutrition support have a diminished potential for devastating outcomes. The principal values and goals leading to an ethical framework for a uniform, fair, and objective approach are reviewed in this article, with a focus on nutrition support. Some historical aspects of shortages in nutrition supplies and products during normal circumstances, as well as others during national crises, are outlined. The development and implementation of protocols using a scoring system seems best addressed by multidisciplinary ethics and triage committees with synergistic but disparate functions. Triage committees should alleviate the burdens of unilateral decisions by the healthcare team caring for patients. The treating team should make every attempt to have patients and the public at large update or execute/develop advance directives. Legal considerations, as the third component of the Troubling Trichotomy, are of some concern when rationing care. The likelihood that criminal or civil charges could be brought against individual healthcare professionals or institutions can be minimized, if fair protocols are uniformly applied and deliberations well documented.
Exploring the complex interactions of baseline patient factors to improve nursing triage of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Frisch Stephanie O. , Brown Julissa , Faramand Ziad , Stemler Jennifer , Sejdić Ervin , Martin‐Gill Christian , Callaway Clifton , Sereika Susan M. , Al‐Zaiti Salah S.
Published: June 2020

Emergency department (ED) nurses need to identify patients with potential acute coronary syndrome (ACS) rapidly because treatment delay could impact patient outcomes. Aims of this secondary analysis were to identify key patient factors that could be available at initial ED nurse triage that predict ACS. Consecutive patients with chest pain who called 9‐1‐1, received a 12‐lead electrocardiogram in the prehospital setting, and were transported via emergency medical service were included in the study. A total of 750 patients were recruited. The sample had an average age of 59 years old, was 57% male, and 40% Black. One hundred and fifteen patients were diagnosed with ACS. Older age, non‐Caucasian race, and faster respiratory rate were independent predictors of ACS. There was an interaction between heart rate by Type II diabetes receiving insulin in the context of ACS. Type II diabetics requiring insulin for better glycemic control manifested a faster heart rate. By identifying patient factors at ED nurse triage that could be predictive of ACS, accuracy rates of triage may improve, thus impacting patient outcomes.
Customer Engagement Is Key to a Successful Lead Service Line Replacement Program
Authors: Glover Megan
Published: June 2020

With an aggressive plan to replace 18,000 lead service lines in three years, officials in Newark, N.J., needed renters’ participation in post‐service line testing. The city partnered with a digital water platform company to gain cooperation and increase the return rate of water‐testing kits.
Using motivational interviewing to enhance emerging adults' engagement in weight loss: The Live Well RVA pilot randomized clinical trial
Authors: LaRose Jessica Gokee , Gorin Amy A , Fava Joseph L. , Bean Melanie K. , Lanoye Autumn , Robinson Elizabeth , Carey Kate
Published: June 2020

Background

Emerging adults (ages 18–25) are at high risk for overweight/obesity, yet traditional adult behavioural weight loss (BWL) interventions do not meet the needs of individuals at this developmental stage. Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence‐based approach to promote behaviour change but has not been tested for weight loss in this population. The study aimed to test the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an MI‐enhanced weight loss programme to promote engagement, retention and weight loss in emerging adults.

Methods

Emerging adults with overweight/obesity (N = 47, 81% female, 47% racial/ethnic minority, body mass index [BMI] = 33.2 ± 4.6 kg/m2) were randomized to either standard BWL or MI‐enhanced BWL (MIBWL). Weight was assessed objectively at baseline and posttreatment (3 months). Engagement (in‐person session attendance [weeks 1 and 2], online self‐monitoring [weeks 3–12] and online content viewing [weeks 3–12]) was tracked throughout the program.

Results

Though results did not reach the level of statistical significance, participants in MIBWL demonstrated greater programme engagement (77% vs. 61.0%, p = .11; Cohen d = .48), retention (71% vs. 48.0%, p = .10; Cohen h = .47) and intent‐to‐treat weight loss (−3.3% vs. −2.2%, p = .37; Cohen d = .26) compared with those in BWL.

Conclusions

Effect sizes suggest that MI might be a viable approach to enhance engagement and retention in weight loss programmes targeting emerging adults. This finding is meaningful, given the documented challenges with engagement and retention in this vulnerable population and the relationship between engagement and better weight loss outcomes. The results of this small pilot study support efforts to replicate these findings within the context of a fully powered trial.
Parents lose less weight than nonparents in an intensive lifestyle intervention
Authors: Bramante Carolyn T. , Thornton Rachel L. J. , Pilla Scott J. , Maruthur Nisa M. , Venkataramani Maya , Clark Jeanne M.
Published: June 2020

Objective

Understand whether parents lose less weight than nonparents in behavioural weight interventions.

Methods

The Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) trial randomized adults with Type 2 diabetes and overweight to an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) or control (diabetes support and education [DSE]). Participants who reported living with a child under age 18 were designated as ‘parents’ for this analysis. Intention to treat analysis was performed of the effect of the ILI on change in weight at 1 year by parental status. Adherence to attending intervention visits was compared between parents and nonparents. Subgroup analyses were done based on previous subgroup findings in the Look AHEAD study.

Results

Among 4,547 participants, 15% were parents. Parents were younger and more likely to have self‐identified as African American or Hispanic/Latino. Comparing ILI with DSE, parents lost less weight than nonparents (−7.1% vs. −8.3%, p = 0.021). African American female parents lost 4% body weight compared with 7% in African American female nonparents (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

In a randomized trial, parents lost less weight than nonparents, and this difference was largest for African American women. These findings suggest parents face unique challenges achieving weight loss; more research is needed to understand and optimize interventions for parents.
What drives Russia's involvement in Africa? [An Afrocentric review of Russia–South Africa relations, 2000–2018]
Authors: Nkuna Vongani M. , Shai Kgothatso B.
Published: June 2020

Russia's engagement with African governments has been a subject of debate amongst scholars of International Public Affairs and other cognate academic disciplines since the demise of the Soviet Union in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This is a result of different approaches in Russia's engagement with African governments since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. To this end, Russia's engagement with African states is multi‐dimensional, ranging from political, economic (mining and energy sectors) and security factors. In order to locate the key drivers of Russia's Africa Policy towards an individual state, this qualitative study provided an Afrocentric review to assess the post‐Cold War Russia's Africa policy paying special reference to Russia–South Africa relations. Afrocentricity is the theoretical paradigm employed to review the nature of Russia's Africa Policy towards South Africa. The authors rely methodologically on document review methods.
Highly active titanium(IV) dichloride FI catalysts bearing a diallylamino group for the synthesis of disentangled UHMWPE
Authors: Oleynik Irina V. , Shundrina Inna K. , Oleyinik Ivan I.
Published: June 2020

A family of 16 salicylaldarylimine titanium(IV) dichloride complexes bearing diallylamino group, namely {2‐[3‐ or 4‐(CH2CHCH2)2NC6H4NCH]‐6‐R1‐4‐R2‐C6H2O}2TiCl2 (R1 = t‐Bu, CMe2(Ph); R2 = H, Me, OMe, t‐Bu) have been used for polymerization of ethylene in the presence of methylaluminoxane. The effects of reaction conditions on the polymerization were examined in detail. All the pre‐catalyst are highly active (up to 14.0 × 106 g(PE) mol(Ti)−1 −1 h−1) for ethylene polymerization at 30°С to 60°С with the activities and MM correlating with the R1‐substituent type and position of NAll2‐group: CMe2(Ph) > t‐Bu and meta‐NAll2 > para‐NAll2 for any R2. Highly linear polyethylenes (Tm's as high as 141.0°С) can be obtained with high molecular weights in the range 0.70 to 4.10 × 106 g mol−1 with disentangled morphology, suitable for technologically more advanced and greeny way to produce high‐modulus high‐strength fibers of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene via solid‐state (solvent‐free) deformation processing.
Polyaniline/sulfonated‐covalent organic polymer nanocomposite: Structural and dye adsorption properties
Authors: Afshari Mohaddeseh , Dinari Mohammad , Moradi Hanieh , Noori Zahra
Published: June 2020

The aim of this work is developing an adsorbent for the removal of anionic Acid Blue 45 dye from aqueous solutions. In this regard, the polyaniline/sulfonated‐covalent organic polymer nanocomposites (PANI/S‐COP NCs) were synthesized by in situ chemical polymerization method. The structure and morphology of these prepared nanocomposites were characterized by different techniques. The structural stability of the synthesized adsorbent was examined under different pH conditions. To optimize the adsorption conditions, various parameters such as pH, dye concentration, adsorbent dosage, contact time, and temperature were investigated. The maximum adsorption capacity of the prepared composite for 100 ppm of dye (at 25.0°C, pH: 5, and time: 120 minutes as optimum conditions) was 117 mg g−1. Different adsorption models were applied for the fitting of the obtained experimental data. It was found that the adsorption data can be well fitted to the linear Langmuir model (R2: .999). The adsorption kinetics can also be well described by the linear pseudo‐second‐order model, indicating the chemical adsorption mechanism for the dye molecules on the PANI/S‐COP NCs surface.
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas in children: Data from the Italian Cooperative Study (TREP)
Authors: Virgone Calogero , Andreetta Marina , Avanzini Stefano , Chiaravalli Stefano , De Pasquale Maria Debora , Crocoli Alessandro , Inserra Alessandro , D'Angelo Paolo , Alaggio Rita , Opocher Giuseppe , Cecchetto Giovanni , Ferrari Andrea , Bisogno Gianni , Dall'Igna Patrizia
Published: June 2020

Background

Pheochromocytomas (PCs) are neuroendocrine tumors arising from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal gland, and paragangliomas (PGLs) are their extra‐adrenal counterparts arising from ganglia along the sympathetic/parasympathetic chain. Surgery is the cornerstone of treatment. A sporatic or inherited germline mutation is commonly associated.

Materials and methods

Among over 1000 patients registered into the Tumori Rari in Età Pediatrica—rare tumors in pediatric age project—from 2000 to 2019, 50 were affected by PC/PGL. All clinical and therapeutic data were evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients had PC and 22 had PGL. Age at diagnosis ranged between 5 and 17 years. Thirty‐five patients had symptoms related to catecholamine hypersecretion; in 7 of 50 patients, diagnosis was incidental or done during assessment of a familial syndrome. In all cases, conventional imaging was effective to assess the presence of a tumor. In addition, 18 of 38 functional imaging studies were positive (61%). Forty‐eight patients were eligible for surgery: a complete resection was more frequently achieved in PC than in PGL (26/28 vs 11/22). All relapses were treated with surgery alone, surgery plus medical treatment, or chemotherapy alone; one PC with metastasis at diagnosis received radiotherapy only. Forty‐four patients were in the first, second, or third complete remission (10/50 recurred; 8/10 carried a germline mutation). Five of 50 patients were alive with disease. One patient died of disease.

Conclusions

Surgery can be curative in most tumors but it may not be always effective in removing PGLs. Severe postsurgical sequelae may affect these patients. Genetic tests should always be considered in individuals affected, and genetic counseling should be offered to their families.
Clinical manifestations of children with COVID‐19: A systematic review
Authors: de Souza Tiago H. , Nadal José A. , Nogueira Roberto J. N. , Pereira Ricardo M. , Brandão Marcelo B.
Published: June 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak is an unprecedented global public health challenge, leading to thousands of deaths every day worldwide. Despite the epidemiological importance, clinical patterns of children with COVID‐19 remain unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, laboratorial, and radiological characteristics of children with COVID‐19.

Methods

The Medline database was searched between December 1st 2019 and April 6th 2020. No language restrictions were applied. Inclusion criteria were (a) studied patients younger than 18 years old; (b) presented original data from cases of COVID‐19 confirmed by reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction; and (c) contained descriptions of clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, or radiological examinations.

Results

A total of 38 studies (1124 cases) were included. From all the cases, 1117 had their severity classified: 14.2% were asymptomatic, 36.3% were mild, 46.0% were moderate, 2.1% were severe, and 1.2% were critical. The most prevalent symptom was fever (47.5%), followed by cough (41.5%), nasal symptoms (11.2%), diarrhea (8.1%), and nausea/vomiting (7.1%). One hundred forty‐five (36.9%) children were diagnosed with pneumonia and 43 (10.9%) upper airway infections were reported. Reduced lymphocyte count was reported in 12.9% of cases. Abnormalities in computed tomography were reported in 63.0% of cases. The most prevalent abnormalities reported were ground‐glass opacities, patchy shadows, and consolidations. Only one death was reported.

Conclusions

Clinical manifestations of children with COVID‐19 differ widely from adult cases. Fever and respiratory symptoms should not be considered a hallmark of COVID‐19 in children.
Triaxial Magnetic Flux Emanation in Response to Uniaxial Electric Field in Magnetoelectric Composite Cylinder Structure
Authors: Youssef George , Newacheck Scott , Lopez Mario , Stampfli Ryan
Published: June 2020

Magnetoelectricity in bulk strain‐mediated multiferroic composites has been growing in attention for sensor and actuator applications. For actuator applications, where electric to magnetic coupling is utilized, the magnetoelectric composite alters the magnetic field which it is within resulting in full‐field spatial and directional changes to the magnetic flux. To grasp a better understanding of the full‐field magnetic behavior of a magnetoelectric composite with a complex geometry, multiple magnetic flux measurements in different locations and directions are taken to unveil interesting behaviors and phenomena such as modality and postfabrication material property modification. Remarkably, a significant multidirectional magnetic flux is measured at a distance away from the composite which can be harnessed to improve the efficiency of multiferroic actuators. In addition, the intensity and directionality of the magnetic flux is highly tunable by modifying the frequency and bias magnetic field depending on the need for the application.
Role of Optical Phonons in Bulk Molybdenum Diselenide Thermal Properties Probed by Advanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Dong Zuo-Yuan , Peng Ya-Kang , Yu Hao , Li Wei-Jian , Hu Jia-Wei , Luo Chen , Wu Xing , Chen Xiao-Jia
Published: June 2020

The solid‐state‐based thermoelectric (TE) materials have attracted considerable interest for their potential application in energy conversion. In general, high‐frequency optical phonon modes are always thought to have a negligible contribution to thermal transport due to their short mean free path. Herein, the optical phonons effect in bulk molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2) is studied using advanced low‐wavenumber Raman spectroscopy with a wide temperature range. It is found that the cubic anharmonicity is dominant at low temperatures, and quartic anharmonicity becomes gradually stronger with increasing temperature. The obtained mode is the most susceptible to the anharmonicity effect and has high phonon density of states (DOS). This is an effect that cannot be explained by previous TE models and, therefore, offers new insight into the nature of phonon transport in 2D materials. The results reveal that the thermal transport can be regulated via high‐frequency phonon scattering.
Development of ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and ultrahigh‐performance supercritical fluid chromatography/mass spectrometry assays to determine the concentration of Bitrex™ and sodium saccharin in homemade facemask fit testing solutions
Authors: Herniman Julie M. , Langley G. John
Published: June 2020

Rationale

Fast and easily transferable chromatography/mass spectrometry assays were required to detect and quantify the amount of Bitrex™ and sodium saccharin in homemade facemask fit testing solutions.

Methods

Bitrex™ solutions were analysed using reversed‐phase ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with positive ion electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (UHPLC/ESI‐MS). Separation was achieved using a mobile phase gradient with an Acquity BEH C18‐packed column. Sodium saccharin solutions were analysed using ultrahigh‐performance supercritical fluid chromatography coupled with negative ion electrospray ionisation (UHPSFC/ESI‐MS). Separation was achieved using isocratic elution with an Acquity UPC2 Torus Diol packed column and a methanol (25 mM ammonium acetate) co‐solvent.

Results

The calibration curves obtained using the ratio of the active compound to an internal standard generated linear regression values (R2) >0.99. Samples analysed prior to and after an autoclave sterilisation process and bottling gave repeatable measurements within 10% of the expected concentration.

Conclusions

The two assays afford a fast robust and quantitative analytical method for the detection of the active components used to test the efficacy of the homemade facemask testing solutions.
Evaluation of two lipid removal methods for stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis in whale tissue
Authors: Smith Kerri J. , Trueman Clive N. , France Christine A.M. , Peterson Markus J.
Published: June 2020

Rationale

The presence of lipids in animal tissues can influence the interpretation of stable isotope data, particularly in lipid‐rich tissues such as the skin and muscle of marine mammals. The traditionally employed chloroform–methanol delipidation protocol has the potential to alter δ15N values in proteinaceous tissues. Our objective was to determine whether the use of cyclohexane could be an alternative extraction method, effectively removing lipids without altering δ15N values.

Methods

Kidney, liver, muscle, and skin samples were collected from beach‐cast Sowerby's beaked whales (Mesoplodon bidens). Control subsamples were processed without delipidation extraction, and duplicate subsamples were extracted with either chloroform–methanol or cyclohexane. δ13C, δ15N, and C:N values were determined by continuous‐flow elemental analysis isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Paired Wilcoxon tests were used to evaluate the change in isotope ratios after extraction, and unpaired Wilcoxon tests were used to evaluate differences in isotope ratios between extractions.

Results

Use of cyclohexane is an effective delipidation technique for tissues with low and moderate lipid content. Chemical delipidation influenced δ15N values; extracted samples generally showed an increase in δ15N values which varied from 0.0‰ to 1.7‰. Chloroform–methanol extraction resulted in alterations to δ15N values greater than the analytical precision for all analyzed tissues. Changes to δ15N values after cyclohexane extraction were at or near the analytical precision for liver and muscle but greater than the analytical precision for kidney and skin.

Conclusions

We recommend processing duplicate subsamples for stable isotope analysis, one with and one without extraction, in order to obtain accurate values for each isotope ratio. Prolonged chemical extractions are not necessary to effectively remove lipids. When samples are limited, we suggest using cyclohexane for tissues with low or moderate lipid content, and chloroform–methanol for lipid‐rich tissues.
Knowledge mobilization in the face of imitation: Microfoundations of knowledge aggregation and firm‐level innovation
Authors: Davis Jason P. , Aggarwal Vikas A.
Published: June 2020

Research Summary

Firms in technology‐based settings continuously mobilize the knowledge of individuals in the firm to execute new opportunities arising over time. Yet we have only a limited understanding of how individual‐level knowledge aggregates to shape firm‐level innovation. We use a computational model to develop a microfoundational theory of firm‐level innovation that captures both intra‐firm knowledge mobilization and inter‐firm competition. A key insight is that despite intuitions that knowledge mobilization should protect against rival imitation, knowledge mobilization can often benefit rivals more than the focal firm itself, due to a process of continuous knowledge spillover‐sharing among rivals. In addition, while knowledge‐based advantages are often thought to be temporary without some isolating mechanism, sustainable advantage may emerge under limited conditions under which knowledge‐mobilizing firms outrace rivals' imitation efforts.

Managerial summary

Managers in fast‐moving technology‐based industries innovate by mobilizing the knowledge of individuals in their firm to execute new market opportunities arising over time. A central challenge in such settings is that competitors may imitate this knowledge, thereby diminishing the advantages to the focal firm that derive from its innovations. We highlight the conditions under which such efforts at mobilizing individual knowledge within a firm can backfire and thus accelerate imitation as a result of knowledge spillover‐sharing among the firm's industry rivals. To protect themselves, innovative firms in highly complex industries can use a recombination process to outrace their imitating rivals and generate sustainable advantages.
Change gears before speeding up: The roles of Chief Executive Officer human capital and venture capitalist monitoring in Chief Executive Officer change before initial public offering
Authors: Chahine Salim , Zhang Yan (Anthea)
Published: June 2020

Research Summary

With data on 1,156 venture capitalist (VC)‐backed U.S. initial public offerings (IPOs), we find that the initial level of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) human capital (HC) when a firm receives its first VC investment is negatively related to the likelihood of changing CEO before IPO. The distance between a firm and its lead VC has a positive effect on the likelihood and this effect is stronger when the initial CEO HC is lower. These results suggest that as a larger distance amounts to greater cost of VC direct monitoring, VC is more compelled to change CEO, especially when initial CEO HC is lower. Controlling for the endogeneity of CEO change, we find that CEO change before IPO has a positive relationship with the firm's IPO valuation and changes in operating performance.

Managerial Summary

Changing CEO prior to IPO is common in startups, especially in those backed by VCs. We argue that VC can monitor a portfolio firm in two ways (which are not mutually exclusive): directly monitoring onsite the firm and indirectly monitoring relying upon the firm's top management especially CEO. We propose and find empirical evidence to support that as a larger distance between a firm and its lead VC amounts to greater cost of direct monitoring and thus making direct monitoring less feasible, the VC is more compelled to change CEO, especially when the CEO is deemed less capable (i.e., having a lower level of human capital). We also find that CEO change before IPO increases a firm's IPO valuation and changes in operating performance.