bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ion acoustic solitary waves in magnetized electron–positron–ion plasmas with Tsallis distributed electrons
Authors: Ullah Ghufran , Saleem Muhammad , Khan Mohsin , Khalid Muhammad , Rahman Ata‐ur , Nabi Sardar
Published: July 2020

The propagation of ion acoustic (IA) solitary waves is investigated in a magnetized electron‐positron‐ion (EPI) plasma with Tsalli distributed electrons and Maxwellian positrons. A non‐linear Korteweg–de Vries (KdV)‐type equation is derived for the potential by using the reductive perturbation method (RPM), and its solitary wave solution is analysed. For a given set of plasma parameters, the present model supports only compressive IA solitary structures. It is found that the variation of various relevant plasma parameters, like the nonextensive parameter q, temperature ratio σ, direction cosine lz, the positron concentration γ and the magnetic field strength Ω significantly alter the characteristic properties of IA solitary waves.
NAFLDin type 2 diabetes mellitus: Still many challenging questions
Authors: Cernea Simona , Raz Itamar
Published: July 2020

Epidemiologic data consistently show that in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) the prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including advanced fibrosis, is double compared to the general population, and it associates with high risk of liver‐related morbidity (advanced fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma) and mortality, but also with other systemic consequences, such as cardiovascular (CV) disease, chronic kidney disease, and overall mortality. There are still many answers that need to be clarified regarding NAFLD in T2DM, including deciphering the complex pathogenetic mechanisms, the intertwined relationships with the extrahepatic organs and tissues (mainly heart, kidneys, adipose tissue, gut), the prognostic value of NAFLD for CV risk stratification, and more importantly, what would be the most appropriate screening algorithm, diagnostic method and therapeutic approach. We advocate here for proactive action, in order to identify NAFLD in a timely manner, and suggest a simple algorithm to be used in clinical practice, based on risk stratification and on experts' opinions. We discuss the current therapeutic options for NAFLD in T2DM, for which a multifactorial approach is needed, that concomitantly addresses the liver and the cardio‐reno‐metabolic disturbances.
Congruence, but no cascade—Pelagic biodiversity across three trophic levels in Nordic lakes
Authors: Andersen Tom , Hessen Dag O. , Håll Johnny P. , Khomich Maryia , Kyle Marcia , Lindholm Markus , Rasconi Serena , Skjelbred Birger , Thrane Jan‐Erik , Walseng Bjørn
Published: July 2020

Covariation in species richness and community structure across taxonomical groups (cross‐taxon congruence) has practical consequences for the identification of biodiversity surrogates and proxies, as well as theoretical ramifications for understanding the mechanisms maintaining and sustaining biodiversity. We found there to exist a high cross‐taxon congruence between phytoplankton, zooplankton, and fish in 73 large Scandinavian lakes across a 750 km longitudinal transect. The fraction of the total diversity variation explained by local environment alone was small for all trophic levels while a substantial fraction could be explained by spatial gradient variables. Almost half of the explained variation could not be resolved between local and spatial factors, possibly due to confounding issues between longitude and landscape productivity. There is strong consensus that the longitudinal gradient found in the regional fish community results from postglacial dispersal limitations, while there is much less evidence for the species richness and community structure gradients at lower trophic levels being directly affected by dispersal limitation over the same time scale. We found strong support for bidirectional interactions between fish and zooplankton species richness, while corresponding interactions between phytoplankton and zooplankton richness were much weaker. Both the weakening of the linkage at lower trophic levels and the bidirectional nature of the interaction indicates that the underlying mechanism must be qualitatively different from a trophic cascade.
Evolution and maintenance of microbe‐mediated protection under occasional pathogen infection
Authors: Kloock Anke , Bonsall Michael B. , King Kayla C.
Published: July 2020

Every host is colonized by a variety of microbes, some of which can protect their hosts from pathogen infection. However, pathogen presence naturally varies over time in nature, such as in the case of seasonal epidemics. We experimentally coevolved populations of Caenorhabditis elegans worm hosts with bacteria possessing protective traits (Enterococcus faecalis), in treatments varying the infection frequency with pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus every host generation, alternating host generations, every fifth host generation, or never. We additionally investigated the effect of initial pathogen presence at the formation of the defensive symbiosis. Our results show that enhanced microbe‐mediated protection evolved during host‐protective microbe coevolution when faced with rare infections by a pathogen. Initial pathogen presence had no effect on the evolutionary outcome of microbe‐mediated protection. We also found that protection was only effective at preventing mortality during the time of pathogen infection. Overall, our results suggest that resident microbes can be a form of transgenerational immunity against rare pathogen infection.
Enforced Freedom: Electric‐Field‐Induced Declustering of Ionic‐Liquid Ions in the Electrical Double Layer
Authors: Zhang Yufan , Ye Ting , Chen Ming , Goodwin Zachary A.H. , Feng Guang , Huang Jun , Kornyshev Alexei A.
Published: July 2020

Ions in the bulk of solvent‐free ionic liquids bind into ion pairs and clusters. The competition between the propensity of ions to stay in a bound state, and the reduction of the energy when unbinding in electric field, determines the portion of free ions in the electrical double layer. We present the simplest possible mean‐field theory to study this effect. “Cracking” of ion pairs into free ions in electric field is accompanied by the change of the dielectric response of the ionic liquid. The predictions from the theory are verified and further explored by molecular dynamics simulations. A particular finding of the theory is that the differential capacitance vs potential curve displays a bell shape, despite the low concentration of free charge carriers, because the dielectric response reduces the threshold concentration for the bell‐ to camel‐shape transition. The presented theory does not take into account overscreening and oscillating charge distributions in the electrical double layer. But in spite of the simplicity of the model, its findings demonstrate a clear physical effect: a preference to be a charged monopole rather than a dipole (or higher order multipole) in strong electric field.
Recent Advances of Electroplating Additives Enabling Lithium Metal Anodes to Applicable Battery Techniques
Authors: Wang Xianshu , Mai Weicong , Guan Xiongcong , Liu Qi , Tu Wenqiang , Li Weishan , Kang Feiyu , Li Baohua
Published: July 2020

Lithium (Li) metal batteries have long been deemed as the representative high‐energy‐density energy storage systems due to the ultrahigh theoretical capacity and lowest electrochemical potential of Li metal anode. Unfortunately, the intractable dendritic Li deposition during cycling greatly restrains the large‐scale applications of Li metal anodes. Recent advances have been explored to address this issue, among which a specific class of electrolyte additives for electroplating is deeply impressive, as they are economic and pragmatic. Different from the conventional additives that construct solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on anodes, they make dendrite‐free Li metal anodes feasible through altering Li plating behavior. In this research news article, the interlinked principles between industrial electroplating and Li deposition are firstly illustrated. The featured effects of electroplating additives on regulating Li plating morphology are also summarized and mainly divided into three categories: co‐deposition with Li cation, coordination with Li cation, and leveling effect of Li films. Furthermore, the mechanism exploration or derivative use of electroplating additive for dendrite suppression and potential research directions are proposed, with emphasizing that industrial electroplating might enable Li metal anode to scalable battery techniques and spread to metal battery systems beyond Li.
Novel oral anticoagulant vs. warfarin in elderly atrial fibrillation patients with normal, mid‐range, and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Wu Victor Chien‐Chia , Wang Chun‐Li , Lee Cheng‐Hung , Chen Yu‐Ling , Tu Hui‐Tzu , Wu Michael , Kuo Chang‐Fu , Chen Shao‐Wei , Huang Yu‐Tung , Wen Ming‐Shien , Chang Shang‐Hung
Published: July 2020

Aims

Patients with concomitant atrial fibrillation (AF) and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) have poor prognosis. Outcomes of novel oral anticoagulant (NOAC) in elderly AF patients with normal, mid‐range, and reduced LVEF were investigated.

Methods and results

Data were retrieved from Chang Gung Research Database during 2010–2017 for patients with AF. We excluded patients with venous thromboembolism within 6 months, total knee/hip replacement and heart valve replacement within 6 months, end‐stage renal disease, stroke/systemic embolism (SE)/death within 7 days, age <65 years old, or no records of LVEF. Primary outcomes were ischaemic stroke (IS)/SE, major bleeding, and death from any cause. There was a total of 50 035 elderly AF patients retrieved. After exclusion criteria, 9615 patients with normal LVEF ≥ 50%, 737 with mid‐range LVEF 41–49%, and 908 with reduced LVEF ≤ 40% were studied. At end of follow‐up, patients on NOAC had significantly reduced IS/SE compared with warfarin in LVEF ≥ 50% [adjusted hazard ration (aHR) 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–0.89] and LVEF 41–49% (aHR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36–0.88) after adjusting for covariates, while there was no difference in LVEF ≤ 40%. Patients on NOAC had significantly reduced major bleeding in all LVEF groups. In addition, patients on NOAC had significantly reduced death compared with warfarin in LVEF ≥ 50% (aHR 0.81, 95% CI 0.67–0.98).

Conclusions

In elderly AF patients ≥65 years, using NOAC was associated with lower IS/SE compared with warfarin in normal and mid‐range LVEF but not in reduced LVEF. Using NOACs was associated with lower death compared with warfarin in normal LVEF.
Distraction from pain: The role of selective attention and pain catastrophizing
Authors: Rischer Katharina M. , González‐Roldán Ana M. , Montoya Pedro , Gigl Sandra , Anton Fernand , van der Meulen Marian
Published: July 2020

Background

Previous research has demonstrated the efficacy of cognitive engagement in reducing concurrent pain. However, little is known about the role of individual differences in inhibitory control abilities and negative pain‐related cognitions in modulating the magnitude of this type of distraction from pain.

Methods

In a pain distraction paradigm, 41 participants completed a working memory task with both a demanding high load condition (2‐back) and an easy low load condition (0‐back), while receiving warm or painful thermal stimuli to their left forearm. To control for individual differences in sensitivity to pain and perceived task difficulty, nociceptive stimulus intensity and task speed were individually calibrated. Additionally, participants completed a set of cognitive inhibition tasks (flanker, go/nogo, Stroop) and questionnaires about negative pain‐related cognitions (fear of pain, pain catastrophizing) prior to the distraction paradigm.

Results

As expected, engaging in the high load condition significantly reduced perceived intensity and unpleasantness of nociceptive stimuli, compared to the low load condition. The size of the distraction effect correlated significantly with better cognitive inhibition and selective attention abilities, as measured by the flanker task. A moderation analysis revealed a significant interaction between pain catastrophizing and performance in the flanker task in predicting the distraction effect size: Participants who performed well on the flanker task showed more pain reduction, but only when they were average to high pain catastrophizers.

Conclusions

Selective attention abilities and pain catastrophizing seem to be important factors in explaining individual differences in the size of the analgesic response to a distractive task.

Significance

Understanding which factors influence the effectiveness of cognitive engagement in distracting from pain could help to optimize its therapeutic application in patient care. This study shows that a complex interplay of cognitive inhibition abilities, specifically selective attention, and negative pain‐related cognitions, such as pain catastrophizing, modulate the magnitude of the distraction effect.
Oxidative stability of direct‐expanded chickpea–sorghum snacks
Authors: Bekele Esayas K. , Nosworthy Matthew G. , Henry Carol J. , Shand Phyllis J. , Tyler Robert T.
Published: July 2020

In contrast to other pulses, chickpea has a relatively high fat content (3%–10%). This study was designed to investigate direct‐expanded chickpea–sorghum extruded snacks (50:50, 60:40, and 70:30 chickpea:sorghum, w/w) with respect to: their oxidative stability and sensory properties during accelerated (55°C) and room temperature (25°C) storage; correlations between chemical markers (peroxide value and p‐anisidine value) and sensory data during accelerated storage; and the shelf‐life of snacks extruded at the optimal expansion point as determined by a rotatable central composite design. Peroxide values and p‐anisidine values were in the range of 0–2.5 mEq/Kg and 5–30, respectively, for both accelerated and room temperature storage, and increased during storage (p < .05). 70:30 and 60:40 (w/w) chickpea–sorghum snacks had higher peroxide and p‐anisidine values compared to the 50:50 snack during storage at either temperature (p < .05). Rancid aroma and off‐flavor of 60:40 and 70:30 chickpea–sorghum snacks (slightly intense = 6) also were higher than that of the 50:50 snack (moderately weak = 3) (p < .05). Significant correlations (p < .05) were found between chemical markers and sensory attributes (p < .05). The study illustrated that shelf‐life decreased as the percentage of chickpea in the blend increased. Therefore, in terms of shelf‐life, a 50:50 chickpea–sorghum blend is preferable.
Bioactivity and biochemical efficacy of chitinase and Justicia brandegeana extract against Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Shehawy Ayman A. , Ibrahim Magda T. , Aboutaleb Enas S. , Qari Sameer H.
Published: July 2020

The red palm weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus is a large polyphagous insect, and this study was carried out to isolate chitinase from Beauveria bassiana as well as phytochemical screening of Justicia brandegeana to elucidate its effect as biocontrol agents against the red palm weevil and its possible effect on enzymatic bioactivity. It is the first time that the lipoid constituents of J. brandegeana were examined by both gas–liquid chromatography (GLC) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/Mass). The results showed that the highest rates of mortality in treated prepupae were 35.0% and 30.0% with the higher concentration of chitinase (25 ppm) and petroleum ether extract of J. brandegeana (1,200 ppm), respectively. Moreover, changes in enzyme activity of ALP, PO, GPT, and GOT in the prepupal stage after treatment with LC50 chitinase and J. brandegeana extract were 36.63 & 14.32, −21.99 & 41.20, −11.02 & 47.05, and −36.00 & 21.43% compared with untreated control, respectively. This study demonstrated effectiveness of chitinase, and the petroleum ether extract of J. brandegeana has potent effect against Rh. ferrugineus due to its disturbance effect on the enzymatic system, protein as well as DNA damage.
Shared genomic segment analysis with equivalence testing
Authors: Horpaopan Sukanya , Fann Cathy S. J. , Lathrop Mark , Ott Jurg
Published: July 2020

An important aspect of disease gene mapping is replication, that is, a putative finding in one group of individuals is confirmed in another set of individuals. As it can happen by chance that individuals share an estimated disease position, we developed a statistical approach to determine the p‐value for multiple individuals or families to share a possibly small number of candidate susceptibility variants. Here, we focus on candidate variants for dominant traits that have been obtained by our previously developed heterozygosity analysis, and we are testing the sharing of candidate variants obtained for different individuals. Our approach allows for multiple pathogenic variants in a gene to contribute to disease, and for estimated disease variant positions to be imprecise. Statistically, the method developed here falls into the category of equivalence testing, where the classical null and alternative hypotheses of homogeneity and heterogeneity are reversed. The null hypothesis situation is created by permuting genomic locations of variants for one individual after another. We applied our methodology to the ALSPAC data set of 1,927 whole‐genome sequenced individuals, where some individuals carry a pathogenic variant for the BRCA1 gene, but no two individuals carry the same variant. Our shared genomic segment analysis found significant evidence for BRCA1 pathogenic variants within ±5 kb of a given DNA variant.
‘More than one red herring'? Heterogeneous effects of ageing on health care utilisation
Authors: Costa‐Font Joan , Vilaplana‐Prieto Cristina
Published: July 2020

We study the effect of ageing, defined as an extra year of life, on health care utilisation. We disentangle the direct effect of ageing, from other alternative explanations such as the presence of comorbidities and endogenous time to death (TTD) that are argued to absorb the effect of ageing (so‐called ‘red herring' hypothesis). We exploit individual level end of life data from several European countries that record the use of medicine, outpatient and inpatient care and long‐term care. Consistently with the ‘red herring hypothesis', we find that corrected TTD estimates are significantly different from uncorrected ones, and their effect size exceeds that of an extra year of life, which in turn is moderated by individual comorbidities. Corrected estimates suggest an overall attenuated effect of ageing, which does not influence outpatient care utilisation. These results suggest the presence of ‘more than one red herring' depending on the type of health care examined.
Relationship of lymph node status with survival and recurrence among women with endometrial cancer
Authors: Buldukoglu Osman Cagin , Turker Alev , Usubutun Alp , Salman Mehmet Coskun
Published: July 2020

Objective

To explore the relationship of lymph node ratio (LNR) and other lymph node parameters with disease‐free (DFS) and overall (OS) survival among women with endometrial cancer.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of data of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer at Hacettepe University Hospitals, Ankara, Turkey, between 2003 and 2013. Women who had their surgical procedure, pathology review, and follow‐up at Hacettepe University Hospitals were included in the study. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the threshold LNR associated with survival.

Results

Overall, 376 women were included in the study. A higher number of excised metastatic lymph nodes was associated with decreased survival. ROC curve analysis determined a threshold LNR of 0.03. Women with LNR higher than 0.03 had decreased DFS (P<0.001) and OS (P<0.001) relative to those with LNR of 0.03 or lower. LNR of 0.1 was found to be a significant cutoff value for DFS (P=0.023) and OS (P=0.036) among women with at least one metastatic lymph node.

Conclusion

LNR may be used as a prognostic tool in endometrial cancer. Future studies will help to define a precise threshold of LNR in order to implement this prognostic factor in daily practice.
Reading comprehension with the Go/No‐Go procedure with compound stimuli
Authors: Brayner de Freitas Gueiros Cecília , Debert Paula
Published: July 2020

The present study investigated whether the Go/No‐Go procedure with compound stimuli produces emergent relations among dictated words (A), pictures (B), and printed words (C) and the emergence of textual behavior (CD) using a multiple probe design across word sets. Three preschool children were exposed to 4 phases: (1) pretests for BC, CB, and CD relations, (2) pretraining with known stimuli, (3) AB and AC training, and (4) posttests for BC, CB, and CD relations. During AB and AC training, responses to A1B1, A2B2, A1C1, and A2C2 compound stimuli, but not to A1B2, A2B1, A1C2, and A2C1, were reinforced. The results showed that all participants met the learning criterion and demonstrated emergence of BC and CB relations (i.e., relations between pictures and printed words), and CD relations (i.e., textual behavior) after training. These results suggest that the Go/No‐Go procedure with compound stimuli is an effective alternative for establishing reading comprehension.
Raman mapping coupled to self‐modelling MCR‐ALS analysis to estimate active cosmetic ingredient penetration profile in skin
Authors: Stella Aline , Bonnier Franck , Tfayli Ali , Yvergnaux Florent , Byrne Hugh J , Chourpa Igor , Munnier Emilie , Tauber Clovis
Published: July 2020

Confocal Raman mapping (CRM) is a powerful, label free, non‐destructive tool, enabling molecular characterization of human skin with applications in the dermo‐cosmetic field. Coupling CRM to multivariate analysis can be used to monitor the penetration and permeation of active cosmetic ingredients (ACI) after topical application. It is presently illustrated how multivariate curve resolution alternating least squares (MCR‐ALS) can be applied to detect and semi‐quantitatively describe the diffusion profile of Delipidol, a commercially available slimming ACI, from Raman spectral maps. Although the analysis outcome can be critically dependent on the a priori selection of the number of regression components, it is demonstrated that profiling of the kinetics of diffusion into the skin can be established with or without additionnal spectral equality constraints in the multivariate analysis, with similar results. Ultimately, MCR‐ALS, applied without spectral equality contraints, specifically identifies the ACI as one of main spectral components enabling to investigate its distribution and penetration into the stratum corneum and underlying epidermis layers.
Perfusion decellularization of porcine esophagus: Study of two processing factors affecting the folded mucosal structure of the esophageal scaffold
Authors: Sitthisang Sonthikan , Leong Meng Fatt , Chian Kerm Sin
Published: July 2020

Acellular scaffolds from decellularized donor organs are showing promising clinical results in tissue and organ repair and regeneration. A successful decellularization process is determined by (a) its capability to decellularize complete organs of large animals, (b) retention of the extracellular matrix (ECM) structures and morphologies, and (c) minimal loss of ECM proteins. In this study, porcine esophagi were perfused in full thickness with 0.25% w/v sodium dodecyl sulfate at perfusion rates 0.1–0.2 ml/min for up to 5 days. Decellularized tissues were characterized for their residual DNA, histological staining for their matrix structures, immunohistochemical staining for collagen type IV and laminin, and scanning electron microscopy for structural integrity. Our results showed that full thickness esophageal tissues treated using the horizontal perfusion setup were decellularized with good structural and biochemical integrity in the ECM. Residual DNA content in decellularized tissues was found to be 36 ± 12 ng/mg of tissues (n = 6) which was significantly lower than that of native tissues (p = .00022). Our study showed that the organ must be decellularized in full thickness and perfusion pressure must be controlled to minimize radial expansion. These factors were found to be critical in preserving the folded mucosa in the decellularized tissues.
Microneedle‐based transdermal electrochemical biosensors based on Prussian blue‐gold nanohybrid modified screen‐printed electrodes
Authors: Pandey Prem C. , Pandey Govind , Narayan Roger J.
Published: July 2020

We report on the fabrication of a microneedle‐based electrochemical biosensor for use in transdermal biosensing, which includes a screen‐printed electrode containing a Prussian blue‐gold nanohybrid as the working electrode. The Prussian blue gold nanohybrid is made from polyethylenime (PEI)‐ mediated simultaneous synthesis of Prussian blue (PBNP) and gold nanoparticles (AuNP), which forms a PBNP‐AuNP nanohybrid with a remarkable change in the Prussian blue character. PEI‐protected polycrystalline PBNPs can be synthesized in acidic media from the single precursor potassium ferricyanide [K3Fe(CN)6] at 60°C. Since PEI also enables the controlled formation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the presence of formaldehyde, nanohybrids containing PBNPs and AuNPs may be prepared. Two different methods of PEI mediated synthesis of AuNP in the presence of PBNP were considered. In Method 1, AuNP and PBNP were made independently and mixed together in an appropriate ratio. In Method 2, PBNPs were made first, followed by PEI‐ and formaldehyde‐mediated reduction of gold cations in the presence of PBNP. PBNP‐AuNPs display a remarkable change in Prussian blue behavior such that the absorption maxima of PBNP‐AuNPs made through Method 1 tend to increase at 670 nm as a function of gold concentration as compared with the control; the reverse was observed when PBNP‐AuNPs were made through Method 2. As made PBNPs and PBNP‐AuNPs made through Method 1 display excellent catalytic activity toward both reduction and oxidation of hydrogen peroxide based on peroxidase mimetic activity. In addition, the as‐synthesized PBNPs displayed superparamagnetic behavior that can be manipulated in the presence of AuNPs. The results from peroxidase mimetic activity, chemiluminescence, cyclic voltammetry, and amperometry showed suitable analytical performance of the as‐made PBNP‐AuNP nanohybrid for biomedical applications.
Failure of Oral Risedronate Therapy to Prevent Spontaneous Vertebral Fracture in a Patient Ceasing Denosumab: A Cautionary Case
Authors: Davidoff Dahlia F , Girgis Christian M
Published: July 2020

Denosumab is a highly effective treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis, significantly improving BMD and reducing risk of fracture. However, denosumab's effect is transient with the risk of a rebound increase in bone turnover following withdrawal of this potent RANKL inhibitor. This poses challenges, particularly in individuals seeking to discontinue denosumab, such as those experiencing a direct complication of prolonged antiresorptive therapy or those in whom an antiresorptive drug holiday would be ordinarily considered. Bisphosphonate strategies to mitigate postdenosumab bone loss are being actively studied. We describe the case of a 73‐year‐old woman who developed a spontaneous vertebral fracture following denosumab discontinuation, despite prolonged treatment with bisphosphonate therapy both before her course of denosumab (20 years of use) and following denosumab discontinuation (1 year of use). This is a cautionary case seeking to highlight uncertainties around the safe withdrawal of denosumab therapy despite intervening treatment with bisphosphonates. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Global Research Alliance N2O chamber methodology guidelines: Statistical considerations, emission factor calculation, and data reporting
Authors: de Klein Cecile A. M. , Alfaro Marta A. , Giltrap Donna , Topp Cairistiona F. E. , Simon Priscila L. , Noble Alasdair D. L. , van der Weerden Tony J.
Published: July 2020

Static chambers are often used for measuring nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes from soils, but statistical analysis of chamber data is challenged by the inherently heterogeneous nature of N2O fluxes. Because N2O chamber measurements are commonly used to assess N2O mitigation strategies or to determine country‐specific emission factors (EFs) for calculating national greenhouse gas inventories, it is important that statistical analysis of the data is sound and that EFs are robustly estimated. This paper is one of a series of articles that provide guidance on different aspects of N2O chamber methodologies. Here, we discuss the challenges associated with statistical analysis of heterogeneous data, by summarizing statistical approaches used in recent publications and providing guidance on assessing normality and options for transforming data that follow a non‐normal distribution. We also recommend minimum requirements for reporting of experimental and metadata of N2O studies to ensure that the robustness of the results can be reliably evaluated. This includes detailed information on the experimental site, methodology and measurement procedures, gas analysis, data and statistical analyses, and approaches to generate EFs, as well as results of ancillary measurements. The reliability, robustness, and comparability of soil N2O emissions data will be improved through (a) application, and reporting, of more rigorous methodological standards by researchers and (b) greater vigilance by reviewers and scientific editors to ensure that all necessary information is reported in scientific publications.
Industrializing an Oil‐Based Economy: Evidence from Iran's Auto Industry
Authors: Movahed Masoud
Published: July 2020

Two theoretical paradigms namely, the ‘resource curse’ and ‘developmental state’ would predict that industrial development in countries with abundance of capital‐intensive natural resources and in states with patrimonial tendencies is doomed to failure. Iran's success in developing a dynamic auto industry, which in 2011 became the world's 12th largest automobile manufacturer with 1.6 million vehicles produced per year seems to contradict these perspectives. How was this technical capacity created in an oil‐based economy—which provides little incentive for industrialization—and, in a country that has been under the United States and international sanctions since 1979 Revolution? In this paper, I will expand on the implications of these theoretical traditions to identify the structural factors that enabled the Iranian state to develop a large automobile sector and relatively diversify the economy. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Natural products and their derivatives: Promising modulators of tumor immunotherapy
Authors: Deng Li-Juan , Qi Ming , Li Nan , Lei Yu-He , Zhang Dong-Mei , Chen Jia-Xu
Published: July 2020

A wealth of evidence supports the role of tumor immunotherapy as a vital therapeutic option in cancer. In recent decades, accumulated studies have revealed the anticancer activities of natural products and their derivatives. Increasing interest has been driven toward finding novel potential modulators of tumor immunotherapy from natural products, a hot research topic worldwide. These works of research mainly focused on natural products, including polyphenols (e.g., curcumin, resveratrol), cardiotonic steroids (e.g., bufalin and digoxin), terpenoids (e.g., paclitaxel and artemisinins), and polysaccharide extracts (e.g., lentinan). Compelling data highlight that natural products have a promising future in tumor immunotherapy. Considering the importance and significance of this topic, we initially discussed the integrated research progress of natural products and their derivatives, including target T cells, macrophages, B cells, NKs, regulatory T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, immunogenic cell death, and immune checkpoints. Furthermore, these natural compounds inactivate several key pathways, including NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and JAK/STAT pathways. Here, we performed a deep generalization, analysis, and summarization of the previous achievements, recent progress, and the bottlenecks in the development of natural products as tumor immunotherapy. We expect this review to provide some insight for guiding future research.
Macrophage dysfunction in cystic fibrosis: Nature or nurture?
Authors: Turton Keren B , Ingram Rebecca J , Valvano Miguel A
Published: July 2020

Mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) affect the homeostasis of chloride flux by epithelial cells. This has deleterious consequences, especially in respiratory epithelia, where the defect results in mucus accumulation distinctive of cystic fibrosis. CFTR is, however, also expressed in phagocytic cells, like macrophages. Immune cells are highly sensitive to conditioning by their environment; thus, CFTR dysfunction in epithelia influences macrophages by affecting the lung milieu, but the mutations also appear to be directly consequential for intrinsic macrophage functions. Particular mutations can alter CFTR’s folding, traffic of the protein to the membrane and function. As such, understanding the intrinsic effects of CFTR mutation requires distinguishing the secondary effects of misfolded CFTR on cell stress pathways from the primary defect of CFTR dysfunction/absence. Investigations into CFTR’s role in macrophages have exploited various models, each with their own advantages and limitations. This review summarizes these methodologic approaches, discussing their physiological correspondence and highlighting key findings. The controversy surrounding CFTR-dependent acidification is used as a case study to highlight difficulties in commensurability across model systems. Recent work in macrophage biology, including polarization and host–pathogen interaction studies, brought into the context of CFTR research, offers potential explanations for observed discrepancies between studies. Moreover, the rapid advancement of novel gene editing technologies and new macrophage model systems makes this assessment of the field’s models and methodologies timely.
DTI Tract‐Based Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping: An Initial Feasibility Study to Investigate the Potential Role of Myelination in Brain Connectivity Change in Cerebral Palsy Patients During Autologous Cord Blood Cell Therapy Using a Rotationally‐Invariant Quantitative Measure
Authors: Zhang Lijia , Ellor Susan , Sun Jessica M. , Liu Chunlei , Kurtzburg Joanne , Song Allen W.
Published: July 2020

Background

Previous studies using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)‐based connectome analysis revealed improved connectivity in cerebral palsy (CP) patients who underwent autologous umbilical cord blood (UCB) stem‐cell therapy. However, the potential mechanism for the connectivity increase remains unclear and needs to be further elucidated.

Purpose

To develop a technique with improved accuracy for quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) with unique sensitivity to myelin, and demonstrate its use in elucidating the underlying mechanism of the observed motor function improvement and brain connectivity increase in CP patients who received autologous UCB stem‐cell therapy.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

A cohort of eight pediatric CP patients (2.6 ± 0.6 years of age) with intact corticospinal tracts (CST) from a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of autologous UCB stem‐cell therapy in CP children was included in this study.

Field Strength/Sequence

DTI and 3D spoiled gradient recalled (SPGR) QSM at 3.0T.

Assessment

Pre‐ and posttreatment magnetic susceptibility (χ) and the rotationally‐invariant magnetic susceptibility anisotropy (MSA) along the CST were derived. Behavioral changes were assessed using the 66‐item Gross Motor Function Measurement. Changes in χ and MSA were compared between patients with and without substantial behavioral improvements.

Statistical Tests

Two‐sample t‐tests were performed to assess the differences in the changes of measurements of interest (Δχ, ΔMSA, and ΔFA) between patients who significantly improved and those who did not.

Results

Patients who demonstrated posttreatment motor improvements exceeding expectations showed significantly more diamagnetic Δχ in the periventricular region along the CST (P = 0.003). Further analysis on the ΔMSA of this region was significantly increased (P = 0.006) for high responders, along with concurrent FA increase.

Data Conclusion

These initial findings suggest that the DTI tract‐based QSM method has the potential to characterize white matter changes associated with behavioral improvements in CP children who underwent cord blood stem‐cell therapy.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Optimal local impedance drops for an effective radiofrequency ablation during cavo‐tricuspid isthmus ablation
Authors: Sasaki Takehito , Nakamura Kohki , Inoue Mitsuho , Minami Kentaro , Miki Yuko , Goto Koji , Take Yutaka , Kaseno Kenichi , Yamashita Eiji , Koyama Keiko , Naito Shigeto
Published: July 2020

Purpose

A novel ablation catheter capable of local impedance (LI) monitoring (IntellaNav MiFi OI, Boston Scientific) has been recently introduced to clinical practice. We aimed to determine the optimal LI drops for an effective radiofrequency ablation during cavo‐tricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation.

Methods

This retrospective observational study enrolled 50 consecutive patients (68 ± 9 years; 34 males) who underwent a CTI ablation using the IntellaNav MiFi OI catheter, guided by Rhythmia. The LI at the start of radiofrequency applications (initial LI) and minimum LI during radiofrequency applications were evaluated. The absolute and percentage LI drops were defined as the difference between the initial and minimum LIs and 100× absolute LI drop/initial LI, respectively.

Results

A total of 518 radiofrequency applications were analyzed. The absolute and percentage LI drops were significantly greater at effective ablation sites than ineffective sites (median, 15 ohms vs 8 ohms, P < .0001; median, 14.7% vs 8.3%, P < .0001). A receiver‐operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that at optimal cutoffs of 12 ohms and 11.6% for the absolute and percentage LI drops, the sensitivity and specificity for predicting the effectiveness of the ablation were 66.5% and 88.2%, and 65.1% and 88.2%, respectively. Finally, bidirectional conduction block along the CTI was achieved in all patients.

Conclusions

During the LI‐guided CTI ablation, the effective RF ablation sites exhibited significantly greater absolute and percentage LI drops than the ineffective RF ablation sites. Absolute and percentage LI drops of 12 ohms and 11.6% may be suitable targets for effective ablation.
Impact of Patient Factors and Management Strategies on Outcomes After Transverse Posterior Cordotomy
Authors: Qazi Shafeen , Mau Ted , Tibbetts Kathleen M.
Published: July 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Carbon dioxide laser transverse posterior cordotomy (TPC) aims to improve airway aperture in patients with glottic obstruction. Postoperative complications may worsen airway compromise and necessitate additional interventions. We sought to identify factors impacting outcomes after TPC.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Medical records of patients who underwent TPC for glottic airway obstruction at a tertiary‐care medical center between 2008 and 2018 were reviewed. Demographics, comorbidities, and intra‐ and postoperative management strategies were analyzed.

Results

Twenty patients who underwent TPC for glottic airway obstruction met inclusion criteria. The mean age was 57 years, and 13 patients were female. Mean follow‐up time was 442 days. Seven patients had posterior glottic stenosis, and 13 had bilateral vocal fold paralysis. Twelve patients developed postoperative complications including granuloma formation (four patients), hospital readmission for dyspnea due to glottic edema (five patients), need for revision surgery (nine patients), or failure to decannulate tracheotomy (five patients). Eight patients had an uncomplicated recovery with improved dyspnea, with two patients with tracheotomies decannulated. Patients with a history of smoking tobacco were more likely to experience complications (P = .035). There were no significant differences in outcomes with respect to history of head and neck radiation or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Steroid injection at the surgical site and postoperative medications did not significantly impact outcomes. With respect to granuloma formation, none of the variables analyzed reached significance.

Conclusions

History of tobacco use increases complication rates after TPC. Other patient comorbidities and intra‐ and postoperative management strategies do not impact outcomes.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1066–1070, 2021
Effect of Hindered Phenol AO‐80 on the Damping Properties for Nitrile‐Butadiene Rubber/Phenolic Resin: Molecular Simulation and Experimental Study
Authors: Song Meng , Yue Xiu‐Lin , Wang Xiu‐Juan , Cao Feng‐Yi , Li Yu‐Nan , Su Chao‐Hua , Qin Qi
Published: July 2020

A combined study of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, experimental, and linear regression analysis method is presented for hindered phenol of 3,9‐bis[1,1‐dimethyl‐2‐{b‐(3‐tertbutyl‐4‐hydroxy‐5‐methylphenyl)propionyloxy}ethyl]‐2,4,8,10‐tetraoxaspiro‐[5,5]‐undecane (AO‐80)/nitrile‐butadiene rubber/linear phenolic resin (AO‐80/NBR/PR) composites with different AO‐80 contents to quantitatively establish the relations between microstructure and damping performance. The number of hydrogen bonds (NHBs), the fractional free volume (FFV), and the binding energy (Ebinding) of AO‐80/NBR/PR composites with different AO‐80 content are calculated by MD simulation from the microscopic scale. Damping parameters, including the loss factor peak (tan δmax) and the loss peak area (TA) (tan δ > 0.3), are obtained by dynamic mechanical analysis from macroscopic scale. The quantitative relationships between microstructure parameters (NHBs,Ebinding, and FFV) and macroscopic damping properties (tan δmaxand TA) are obtained by linear regression analysis. This research is expected to provide a theoretical guidance for improving the damping performance of rubber‐based organic hybrid composites.
Physical Activity Changes and Correlate Effects in Patients with Parkinson's Disease during COVID‐19 Lockdown
Authors: Schirinzi Tommaso , Di Lazzaro Giulia , Salimei Chiara , Cerroni Rocco , Liguori Claudio , Scalise Simona , Alwardat Mohammad , Mercuri Nicola Biagio , Pierantozzi Mariangela , Stefani Alessandro , Pisani Antonio
Published: July 2020

Background

COVID‐19 outbreak profoundly affected health systems and people's daily life worldwide. Parkinson's disease (PD) patients lost their normal routine and interrupted regular physical activity, either as physiotherapy or sport, with inevitable consequence on their daily‐life and well‐being.

Objectives

To evaluate the changes in physical activity due to COVID‐19 emergency, including self‐management strategies or technology‐assisted activities, and the subsequent clinical implications in PD patients.

Methods

Seventy‐four patients from an Italian center have been remotely examined during the lockdown (April–May 2020) by an e‐mail structured survey, including self‐administered scales. We collected and analyzed data on changes, modalities and amount of physical active practice, on the use of technology‐based tools, and on self‐perceived clinical condition.

Results

Sixty percent of patients reported a significant worsening of their general conditions during the lockdown, the reduction of physical activity being the main risk factor for such change. However, patients found ways to practice physical activity, using satisfactorily technology assistance in 50% of cases (mostly women).

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 emergency has been an ordeal for PD patients. Nevertheless, patients adapted their habits to continue practicing physical activity that resulted a main determinant of their well‐being; as well, they successfully approached technology‐based assistance. Education, communication, and networking emerge as critical for a constructive reaction to the emergency's challenges.
Evaluating the Role of SNCA, LRRK2, and GBA in Chinese Patients With Early‐Onset Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Chen Yongping , Gu Xiaojing , Ou Ruwei , Zhang Lingyu , Hou Yanbing , Liu Kuncheng , Cao Bei , Wei Qianqian , Li Chunyu , Song Wei , Zhao Bi , Wu Ying , Cheng Jingqiu , Shang Huifang
Published: July 2020

Background

Defects in the α‐synuclein, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, or glucocerebrosidase genes have been regarded as essential contributors to PD. However, genetic variability of these genes with respect to early‐onset PD remains poorly defined for the Chinese demographic.

Objectives

We aim to systematically characterize the clinical and genetic architecture of α‐synuclein, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, and glucocerebrosidase in Chinese early‐onset PD patients.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were used to identify variants of α‐synuclein, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, and glucocerebrosidase in 662 Chinese early‐onset PD patients. Haplotype and burden analyses were conducted to investigate the role of rare variants of these three genes in early‐onset PD.

Results

Sixty rare variants, including 23 novel variants, were identified in 73 patients (11.0%). Frequencies of patients with rare pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants of α‐synuclein, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, and glucocerebrosidase were 0.6%, 3.0%, and 5.4%, respectively. Evidences of two founder events exclusive to Asians were identified in 2 patients with leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 p.R1441C and 3 patients with α‐synuclein p.A53V. Gene‐based burden analysis supported glucocerebrosidase as a strong risk factor for early‐onset PD, but argued against over‐representation of rare variants in α‐synuclein or leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 in early‐onset PD. Clinically, no differences in motor or nonmotor symptoms were found between glucocerebrosidase variants carriers, and noncarriers or between leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 carriers and noncarriers. Patients with α‐synuclein variants showed both rapid progression and worse cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

Our study provides a better understanding of the clinical and genetic correlations of α‐synuclein, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, and glucocerebrosidase in early‐onset PD, which may be beneficial for drafting genetic scanning strategies and evaluating disease progression. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society