bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Study of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Waitlist for Liver Transplant
Authors: Wong Tiffany Cho‐Lam , Lee Victor Ho‐Fun , Law Ada Lai‐Yau , Pang Herbert H. , Lam Ka‐On , Lau Vince , Cui Tracy Yushi , Fong Adrianna Sze‐Yin , Lee Sarah Wai‐Man , Wong Edwin Chun‐Yin , Dai Jeff Wing‐Chiu , Chan Albert Chi‐Yan , Cheung Tan‐To , Fung James Yan‐Yue , Yeung Rebecca Mei‐Wan , Luk Mai‐Yee , Leung To‐Wai , Lo Chung‐Mau
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims

There are no prospective data on stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) as a bridge to liver transplantation for HCC. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SBRT as bridging therapy, with comparison with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).

Approach and Results

Patients were prospectively enrolled for SBRT under a standardized protocol from July 2015 and compared with a retrospective cohort of patients who underwent TACE or HIFU from 2010. The primary endpoint was tumor control rate at 1 year after bridging therapy. Secondary endpoints included cumulative incidence of dropout, toxicity, and posttransplant survival.

During the study period, 150 patients were evaluated (SBRT, n = 40; TACE, n = 59; HIFU, n = 51). The tumor control rate at 1 year was significantly higher after SBRT compared with TACE and HIFU (92.3%, 43.5%, and 33.3%, respectively; P = 0.02). With competing risk analysis, the cumulative incidence of dropout at 1 and 3 years after listing was lower after SBRT (15.1% and 23.3%) compared with TACE (28.9% and 45.8%; P = 0.034) and HIFU (33.3% and 45.1%; P = 0.032). Time‐to‐progression at 1 and 3 years was also superior after SBRT (10.8%, 18.5% in SBRT, 45%, 54.9% in TACE, and 47.6%, 62.8% in HIFU; P < 0.001). The periprocedural toxicity was similar, without any difference in perioperative complications and patient and recurrence‐free survival rates after transplant. Pathological complete response was more frequent after SBRT compared with TACE and HIFU (48.1% vs. 25% vs. 17.9%, respectively; P = 0.037). In multivariable analysis, tumor size <3 cm, listing alpha‐fetoprotein <200 ng/mL, Child A, and SBRT significantly reduced the risk of dropout.

Conclusions

SBRT was safe, with a significantly higher tumor control rate, reduced the risk of waitlist dropout, and should be used as an alternative to conventional bridging therapies.
Dimethyl ether conversion to light olefins in slurry and fixed‐bed reactors: coke nature and location on Mg/ZSM‐5 catalyst
Authors: Obukhova Тatiana К , Stashenko Anton N , Batova Тatiana I , Kolesnichenko Nataliya V
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to investigate the deactivation of ZSM‐5 in the DTO process (dimethyl ether to light olefins) in a slurry reactor (SLR) in polydimethylsiloxane dispersion medium compared with its deactivation in a fixed‐bed reactor (FBR), and to unveil reasons behind the rapid deactivation of the catalyst in the SLR.

RESULTS

Under suspension conditions coke formation proceeds more slowly compared with fixed‐bed conditions: The amount of coke formed under suspension conditions is less than under fixed‐bed conditions, 1.4 mg versus 1.7 mg, respectively. Also, in terms of the chemical composition the coke is lighter (xylenes and trimethylbenzenes versus С4,5,6‐substituted benzenes). Using thermogravimetric analysis and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry pyrolytic system, it was shown that the decomposition products of the dispersion medium contribute to the blocking of micropores and the rapid deactivation of the catalyst in SLR. The localization of coke in both SLR and FBR occurs primarily in the microporous channels of the zeolite (>60%). In SLR, the weight fraction of coke on the external catalyst surface was 11% higher than that on the FBR. This finding can be attributed to the blocking of micropores by decomposition products of the dispersion medium.

CONCLUSION

Under suspension conditions, сoke formation in the DTO process proceeds more slowly compared with fixed‐bed conditions. The rapid loss of catalyst activity in the SLR was related not to coke formation, but instead to the blocking of catalyst pores by products of thermal decomposition of the dispersion medium. For the same reason, in SLR the weight fraction of coke on the external surface of the catalyst was higher than that in the FBR. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
How witnessing rudeness can disrupt psycho‐motor performance of dental students
Authors: Woolum Andrew , Echeto Luisa F. , Cooper Binyamin , Gale Jake , Erez Amir , Katz Joseph , Guelmann Marcio , Jerrell Roy G. , Zoidis Panagiotis
Published: June 2021

Rude and disrespectful behaviors are ubiquitous and pervasive in the workplace. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of witnessed rudeness on dental student psychomotor performance. Using an experimental, between‐subjects design, 71 2nd (Sophomore) year dental students witnessed either an experimental (rude) or control (neutral) condition in which a confederate lab manager interacted in a rude or neutral manner with a prospective lab assistant candidate. Students then performed a mock prosthodontics psychomotor examination as part of the fixed prosthodontics preclinical course. Results indicated that those students who arrived at the experimental session cognitively depleted (+1 SD above the mean) and were exposed to the rude condition were significantly more likely to make critical errors when performing a posterior bridge preparation, compared to those students in the control group. There were no significant differences between the rude and control conditions for participants who were not cognitively depleted (−1 SD below the mean). Overall, the findings indicate that for those dental students suffering from cognitive depletion, merely witnessing rudeness can have adverse impacts on psychomotor performance and potentially, eventual patient care.
Novel compound heterozygous CPLANE1 variants identified in a Chinese family with Joubert syndrome
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Sun Zhenchao , Xu Lulu , Che Fengyuan , Liu Shiguo
Published: June 2021

Joubert syndrome (JS) and JS‐related disorders (JSRD) are a group of neurodevelopmental diseases that share the “molar tooth sign” on axial brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), accompanied by cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, ataxia, hypotonia, and developmental delay. To identify variants responsible for the clinical symptoms of a Chinese family with JS and to explore the genotype–phenotype associations, we conducted a series of clinical examinations, including blood tests, brain MRI scans, ultrasound imaging, and ophthalmologic examination. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of the six‐person family, and the pathogenic variants were detected by whole‐exome sequencing (WES) and verified by Sanger sequencing. WES revealed two novel compound heterozygous variants in CPLANE1: c.1270C>T (p.Arg424*) in exon 10 and c.8901C>A (p.Tyr2967*) in exon 48 of one child, inherited from each parent. Both variants were absent in ethnically matched Chinese control individuals and were either absent or present at very low frequencies in public databases, suggesting that these variants could be the pathogenic triggers of the JS phenotype. Notably, these CPLANE1 sequence variants were related to the pathogenesis of autosomal recessive JS in this study. The newly discovered variants expand the mutation spectrum of CPLANE1, which assists in understanding the molecular mechanism underlying JS and improving the recognition of genetic counseling, particularly for families with a history of autosomal recessive JS.
On the number of edges in maximally linkless graphs
Authors: Aires Max
Published: June 2021

A maximally linkless graph is a graph that can be embedded in without any links, but cannot be embedded in such a way if any other edge is added. Recently, a family of ‐vertex maximally linkless graphs was found with edges. We improve upon this by demonstrating a new family of maximally linkless graphs with at most edges.
Synthesis and characterization of novel hybrid compounds containing coumarin and benzodiazepine rings based on dye
Authors: Gümüş Mehmet
Published: June 2021

Coumarin derivatives, one of the organic fluorescent materials, are widely applied in many areas such as laser dyes, organic light emitting diodes (OLED), pharmaceuticals and bio/chemosensors, with the advantages of the large conjugated system and planar structure. In the coumarin analogs, which are polarity sensitive fluorophores, a shift to the red zone is observed in the case of π expansion at 3‐positions and electron donor groups at 7‐positions. The present article reports the synthesis of novel hybrid compounds (CD1‐CD8) containing coumarin and benzodiazepine rings using ethyl 3‐(7‐(diethylamino)‐2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐3‐oxopropanoate reagent and 1,2‐diaminobenzene derivatives under optimized reaction conditions with PTSA catalyst. The structures of target compounds synthesized were characterized by FTIR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HRMS and UV–Vis spectra. The effects of electron withdrawing and electron donor groups in the cyclocondensation reaction that takes place as regioselective were evaluated in detail. The substituent effects were investigated for n‐π* and π‐π* electronic transitions in UV–Vis Spectroscopy.
Brønsted acid catalyzed synthesis of 2‐aryl‐quinazolinones via cyclization of 2‐aminobenzamide with benzonitriles in PEG
Authors: Matcha Sowbhagya Lakshmi , Karasala Bharat Kumar , Botsa Sathish Mohan , Vidavalur Siddaiah
Published: June 2021

A simple and efficient Brønsted acid catalyzed synthesis of 2‐aryl‐quinazolinones via cyclization of 2‐aminobenzamides with benzonitrile in PEG under metal and ligand‐free condition. All substituted benzonitriles were also well participated with the formation of the corresponding products in moderate to good yields.
Long‐term changes in drought indices in eastern and central Europe
Authors: Jaagus Jaak , Aasa Anto , Aniskevich Svetlana , Boincean Boris , Bojariu Roxana , Briede Agrita , Danilovich Irina , Castro Fernando Domínguez , Dumitrescu Alexandru , Labuda Martin , Labudová Lívia , Lõhmus Krista , Melnik Viktar , Mõisja Kiira , Pongracz Rita , Potopová Vera , Řezníčková Ladislava , Rimkus Egidijus , Semenova Inna , Stonevičius Edvinas , Štěpánek Petr , Trnka Miroslav , Vicente‐Serrano Sergio M. , Wibig Joanna , Zahradníček Pavel
Published: June 2021

This study analyses long‐term changes in drought indices (Standardised Precipitation Index—SPI, Standardised Precipitation–Evapotranspiration Index—SPEI) at 1 and 3 months scales at 182 stations in 11 central and eastern European countries during 1949–2018. For comparative purposes, the necessary atmospheric evaporative demand (AED) to obtain SPEI was calculated using two methods, Hargreaves‐Samani (SPEIH) and Penman‐Monteith (SPEIP). The results show some relevant changes and tendencies in the drought indices. Statistically significant increase in SPI and SPEI during the cold season (November–March), reflecting precipitation increase, was found in the northern part of the study region, in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, northern Belarus and northern Poland. In the rest of study domain, a weak and mostly insignificant decrease prevailed in winter. Summer season (June–August) is characterized by changes in the opposite sign. An increase was observed in the north, while a clear decrease in SPEI, reflecting a drying trend, was typical for the southern regions: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova and southern Poland. A general drying tendency revealed also in April, which was statistically significant over a wide area in the Czech Republic and Poland. Increasing trends in SPI and SPEI for September and October were detected in Romania, Moldova and Hungary. The use of SPEI instead of SPI generally enhances drying trends.
Maillard reaction products and guaiacol as production process and raw material markers for the authentication of sesame oil
Authors: Liu Rui , Chen Hengye , Wang Shuo , Wei Liuna , Yu Yongjie , Lan Wei , Yang Jian , Guo Lanping , Fu Haiyan
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Sesame oil has an excellent flavor and is widely appreciated. It has a higher price than other vegetable oils because of the high price of its raw materials, and different processing techniques also result in products of different quality levels, which can command different prices. In the market, there is a persistent problem of adulteration of sesame oil, driven by economic interests. The screening of volatile markers used to distinguish the authenticity of sesame oil raw materials and production processes is therefore very important.

RESULTS

In this work, six markers related to the production processes and raw materials of sesame oil were screened by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC‐MS/MS) combined with chemometric analysis. They were 3‐methyl‐2‐butanone, 2‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐pyrazine, guaiacol, 2,6‐dimethyl‐pyrazine, 5‐methyl furfural, and ethyl‐pyrazine. The concentration of these markers in sesame oil is between 10 and1000 times that found in other vegetable oils. However, only 3‐methyl‐2‐butanone and 2‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐pyrazine differed significantly as the result of the use of different production processes. Except for guaiacol, which was mainly derived from raw materials, the other five compounds mentioned above all result from the Maillard reaction during thermal processing. The six compounds mentioned above are sufficient to distinguish fraud involving sesame oil raw materials and production processes, and can identify accurately adulteration levels of 30% concentration.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the classification markers can identify the adulteration of sesame oil accurately. These six compounds are therefore important for the authenticity of sesame oil and provide a theoretical basis for the rapid and accurate identification of the authenticity of sesame oil. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative effects of gibberellin A3, glycine betaine, and Si, Ca, and K fertilizers on physiological disorders and yield of pomegranate cv. Wonderful
Authors: Drogoudi Pavlina , Pantelidis Georgios E
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Damage from cracking, russeting, and sunscalds causes significant yield losses in pomegranate worldwide and may result from stressful environmental conditions. Although foliar sprays with minerals or growth regulators could be an important orchard management, little is known on the effectiveness of glycine betaine, silicon (Si)‐based fertilizers or the response of cv. Wonderful to gibberellin A3 (GA3).

RESULTS

During a 2‐year study, foliar spraying with GA3 at 75 or 150 mg L−1 applied in July substantially reduced cracking, russeting, and sunscald symptoms and increased fruit size, yield, and 100‐aril weight, without affecting the % edible portion or % juice, suggesting that arils and skin increased similarly. Nevertheless, they reduced the skin red coloration, especially at the higher dose. GA3 at 75 mg L−1 applied in September resulted in a low number of harvested fruit as a result of delayed maturation. Spraying with glycine betaine at seven repeated times at biweekly intervals starting in July, reduced sunscald symptoms, red coloration, and maturity index only in the year with high damage. Foliar sprays with calcium chloride or Si‐based fertilizer containing potassium, applied as in the glycine betaine treatment, did not affect the occurrence of physiological disorders, whereas Si‐based fertilizer containing potassium and calcium increased cracking and decreased sunscald only in the year with high damage.

CONCLUSION

Spraying with GA3 at 75 mg L−1 in July could have a significant impact on a grower's income by reducing damage from physiological disorders, improving yield with a minimum decrease in red skin coloration. The efficacy of nutrient‐related fertilizers and glycine betaine were not constant, and this would be useful to evaluate at earlier application times and under stress conditions. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Structural characterisation and bioactivity of polysaccharides isolated from fermented Dendrobium officinale
Authors: Wang Xilai , Zhou Xin , Wang Kai , Cao Xianying
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

A polysaccharide was purified in this study, which was acquired from the fermentation broth of Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo. We aimed to investigate the structural features and bioactivity of this polysaccharide.

RESULTS

The polysaccharide was purified and the main polysaccharide fraction (i.e., DOP‐1) was obtained. High‐performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC) revealed that the molecular weight of DOP‐1 was 447.48 kDa. Galactose, glucose and mannose were found to be present in DOP‐1 via monosaccharide composition analysis, at a ratio of 1:1.79:6.71. Methylation and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analysis indicated that the backbone of DOP‐1 was →4)‐α‐d‐Glcp‐(1 → 4)‐α‐d‐Manp‐(1 → 4)‐α‐d‐Manp‐(1 → 4,6)‐α‐d‐Manp‐(1→, and its repeating units were also preliminarily established. In vitro tests proved that DOP‐1 not only protects RAW264.7 macrophages from the cytotoxic effect induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but also inhibits cytokines (i.e., interleukin‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α) induced by LPS. DOP‐1 demonstrated good scavenging activity in vitro toward 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl and hydroxyl radicals, as well as good metal chelating activity. Therefore, DOP‐1 has potential antioxidant applications.

CONCLUSION

The structural characteristics of DOP‐1 support its favourable biological activities and lay a strong foundation for further exploration of its structure–activity relationships and activity development, providing experimental data for the development and utilisation of fermentation broth of D. officinale. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparing on‐farm and long‐term research experiments on soil carbon recovery by conservation agriculture in Southern Brazil
Authors: de Oliveira Ferreira Ademir , Amado Telmo Jorge Carneiro , Rice Charles W. , Gonçalves Daniel Ruiz Potma , Ruiz Diaz Dorivar A.
Published: June 2021

Global studies, generally, and Brazilian studies, specifically, on soil organic carbon (SOC) in experimental research plots, support conservation agriculture (CA) as a tool to partially or totally restore SOC stocks depleted by conventional tillage agriculture. In response, the Brazilian Government implemented in 2010–2030 a “Low Carbon Agriculture Plan” (ABC Plan) program centered on large‐scale CA adoption. However, the projections of SOC recovery based on long‐term research trials may not adequately portray farm level high‐yield operations. The objectives of this study were: (a) quantify and compare SOC stocks to a 1‐m depth in long‐term CA at the farm scale (>20 years) with paired native vegetation and nearest available long‐term research experiments (>30 years) in Southern Brazil; (b) explore the role of oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus L.) as a cover crop to enhance SOC accumulation. In general, farm level CA systems restored SOC at an equal or higher level than the paired research plots. For the farm level CA systems, average SOC recovery was 92% (0–0.30 m) and 97% (0–1.0 m) in the soil profile relative to native vegetation. Moreover, compared to research scale CA, farm level CA average SOC recovery was 91 and 86%, for the same soil layers. Recovery of SOC in research scale CA can be scaled up to farm level systems in Southern Brazil. The main characteristics for SOC recovery (0–1.0 m) were high inputs of plant biomass, lack of soil disturbance, and diversification with oilseed radish cover crop.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Liver Transplantation: Lessons from the First Year of the Pandemic
Authors: Phipps Meaghan M. , Verna Elizabeth C.
Published: June 2021

Over the last year, the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has continued to spread across the globe, causing significant morbidity and mortality among transplantation candidates and recipients. Patients with end‐stage liver disease awaiting liver transplantation and patients with a history of liver transplantation represent vulnerable populations, especially given the high rates of associated medical comorbidities in these groups and their immunosuppressed status. In addition, concerns surrounding COVID‐19 risk in this patient population have affected rates of transplantation and general transplantation practices. Here, we explore what we have learned about the impact of COVID‐19 on liver transplantation candidates and recipients as well as the many key knowledge gaps that remain.
The Impact of Primary Liver Disease and Social Determinants in a Mixed Donor Liver Transplant Program: A Single‐Center Analysis
Authors: Leung Kristel K. , Kim Audrey , Hansen Bettina E. , Lilly Les , Selzner Nazia , Patel Keyur , Bhat Mamatha , Hirschfield Gideon M. , Galvin Zita
Published: June 2021

Organ allocation in liver transplantation (LT) remains imperfect. Periodic center reviews ensure programs transparently evaluate the impact of practice on access to transplantation, reflecting, in particular, patient (primary disease, social determinants) and program (deceased versus live donation) factors. Adult Ontario residents waitlisted for first LT at Toronto General Hospital from November 2012 to May 2019 were reviewed. Analyses were performed between distance to transplant center, income, education level, population density and primary liver disease, with LT, deceased donor liver transplant (DDLT), living donor liver transplant (LDLT), and delisting. Of 1735 listed patients, 549 were delisted (32%), while 1071 were transplanted (62%), with 819 DDLT recipients (76%) and 252 LDLT recipients (24%), while 115 (7%) remained actively listed at data census. On univariate analysis, DDLT recipients lived 30% closer (median 39.7 versus 60.6 km; P < 0.001), lived in more populous areas (median 8501.0 versus 6868.5 people in a 1‐km radius; P < 0.001), and resided in households that annually earned 10% less (median $92,643.17 versus $102,820.89 Canadian dollars; P < 0.001) compared with LDLT recipients. These findings with population density and income differences between DDLT versus LDLT receival remained significant on multivariate modeling even when accounting for primary liver disease. Primary liver disease was a statistically significant factor on multivariate analyses in LT receival (P = 0.001) as well as DDLT versus LDLT receival (P < 0.001). Of patients listed for end‐stage liver disease, more patients with autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases received LDLT (34%‐41%) than DDLT (27%‐30%); this contrasted with patients with noncholestatic diseases LDLT (8%‐19%) versus DDLT (37%‐59%) receival (P < 0.001). Review of transplant allocation in a large mixed‐donor North American liver transplant program demonstrates how patient social determinants and primary liver disease etiology continue to be significantly associated with ultimate transplantation.
Markedly Similar Growth and Longevity of Green Jobfish Aprion virescens over an Expansive Geographic Range between the Hawaiian Archipelago and the Eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: O’Malley Joseph , Wakefield Corey B. , Kinney Michael J. , Newman Stephen J.
Published: June 2021

The Green Jobfish Aprion virescens supports important commercial, recreational, and subsistence fisheries throughout its Indo-Pacific range. Concerns with previous estimates of age and growth from fish in Hawaii, along with evidence of variability in these parameters from locations outside the Pacific Ocean, limits their reliability as input parameters for assessments of this species, particularly in Hawaii. Previously validated aging criterion were applied to fish collected from within the Hawaiian Archipelago (main Hawaiian Islands and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands) and the eastern Indian Ocean to provide length-at-age, growth, and longevity information for stock assessment and management purposes as well as to further examine spatial variability across its range. The Bayesian information criterion was used as a measure of goodness of fit for von Bertalanffy models with different covariates to explore the influence of sex and location on growth. No divergence in growth trajectories was identified between sexes, and growth parameter estimates were not different within the Hawaiian Archipelago or between Hawaii and the eastern Indian Ocean. Empirical natural mortality estimates revealed that mortality was also very similar between sexes and among locations due to the similarity in maximum ages and growth parameter estimates. Considering there was dissimilarity in age and growth parameters between the current study and those published for this species from the Coral Sea and the western and central Indian Ocean, further investigation of potential clines in relation to latitude, and subsequently water temperature, need to be determined.
Evidence of Life Cycle Diversity of River Herring in the Penobscot River Estuary, Maine
Authors: Stevens Justin R. , Saunders Rory , Duffy William
Published: June 2021

Alewife Alosa pseudoharengus and Blueback Herring A. aestivalis—collectively referred to as river herring—exhibit complex life histories, exploiting freshwater and marine biomes to complete their life cycles. We investigated distribution patterns of river herring in the Penobscot River estuary, Maine, USA, from April through September in 2012 and 2013 and found both species in relatively low-salinity portions of the estuary in all months sampled. River herring made up the majority of samples in terms of abundance and biomass for most months. We developed age–length keys for monthly catches and found consistent presence of age-1 and age-2 river herring, especially during spring. We found seasonal patterns in age distribution with age-1 fish and older most abundant in spring and summer and age-0 fish only occurring in late summer through fall. These observations provide direct evidence of life cycle diversity for juvenile river herring, complementing other recent observations in other parts of their native range. Lastly, our findings suggest further consideration should be given to the importance of connectivity between marine, estuarine, and freshwater habitats for age-1 and age-2 river herring and to the more complex ecological roles of age-1 and age-2 river herring given their intermediate trophic level and presence in relatively fresh components of the Penobscot River estuary.
Vertically aligned and non‐close‐packed arrays of dumbbell‐ and bullet‐shaped nanoparticles fabricated via self‐assembly
Authors: Kuno Goshi , Sato Naoki , Sakaguchi Kota , Matsumoto Akikazu
Published: June 2021

Biomimetic nanostructures are attracting great interest because of their applications in mechanical engineering, optics, and biosciences. One of the most effective methods for fabricating nanostructures is forming particle arrays that have controlled shapes and placements. Herein, a novel self‐assembly method for forming vertically aligned arrays of anisotropic‐shaped particles is described. The particles can be vertically aligned with controlled spacing on substrates using a layer‐by‐layer method and thermal fusion. This method can be applied to particles of various shapes; for example, dumbbell‐shaped particles with an aspect ratio in the range of 1.2–1.9 and bullet‐shaped particles with an aspect ratio of two or more are aligned on substrates. From the results of the simulation of particle arrangement, the particles are oriented in the layer‐by‐layer process if they have anisotropy in terms of the shape, specific gravity, and surface charge of the particles. Furthermore, to make the particles stand upright, it is necessary to heat the particles at a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition temperature of the polymer that covers the particles. This method is applicable to form broadband high aspect nanostructures, and the vertically aligned particle array shows good anti‐reflection properties and high transparency.
Combined exome sequencing and deep phenotyping in highly selected fetuses with skeletal dysplasia during the first and second trimesters improves diagnostic yield
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Ren Yuan , Song Rui , Wang Longxia , Xu Hong , Xie Xiaoxiao , Zhou Honghui , Sun Pei , Zhang Manli , Zhao Qingdong , You Yanqin , Gao Zhiying , Meng Yuanguang , Lu Yanping
Published: June 2021

Objective

To investigate the genetic etiology of skeletal dysplasia in highly selected fetuses during the first and second trimesters using deep phenotyping and exome sequencing (ES).

Method

Fetuses with short femurs were identified using the established prenatal diagnostic approach. A multidisciplinary team reviewed fetal phenotypic information (prenatal ultrasound findings, fetal postmortem, and radiographs) in a cohort of highly selected fetuses with skeletal dysplasia during the first and second trimesters. The affected families underwent multiplatform genetic tests.

Results

Of the 27 affected fetuses, 21 (77.8%) had pathogenic or potential pathogenic variations in the following genes: COL1A1, FGFR3, COL2A1, COL1A2, FLNB, DYNC2LI1, and TRIP11. Two fetuses had compound heterozygous mutations in DYNC2LI1 and TRIP11, respectively, and the other 19 carried de novo autosomal dominant variants. Novel variants were identified in COL1A1, COL2A1, COL1A2, DYNC2LI1, and TRIP11 in 11 fetuses. We also included the first description of the phenotype of odontochondrodysplasia in a prenatal setting.

Conclusions

ES or panel sequencing offers a high diagnostic yield for fetal skeletal dysplasia during the first and second trimesters. Comprehensive and complete phenotypic information is indispensable for genetic analysis and the expansion of genotype–phenotype correlations in fetal skeletal abnormalities.
A review of the sampling methodology used in studies evaluating the effectiveness of risk minimisation measures in Europe
Authors: Jouaville Laurence Sophie , Paul Tulika , Almas Mariana Ferreira
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This review aims to describe the sampling methodology used in studies assessing effectiveness of risk minimisation measures (RMMs) in the European Union.

Methods

The European Union electronic Register of Post‐Authorization Studies (EU PAS Register) was searched to identify studies that assessed the effectiveness of RMMs and recruited a target population of healthcare professionals (HCPs), sites or patients. Studies with both protocol and report were included and data was extracted from these documents to describe study characteristics and variables involved in the sampling methodology.

Results

Out of 1092 studies finalised between June 2017 and May 2019, 17 studies were eligible for review. Thirteen were surveys, three chart reviews and one combined both methodologies. All the 17 studies recruited HCPs/sites and 8 of them also recruited patients. The most common rationale for country sampling was market uptake (10/17), while for HCP/site sampling, it was representativeness of the prescribing practices (14/17). Only a minority of the studies (4/17) provided supporting evidence to inform this theoretical framework. HCP/site sampling frames were mainly network of physicians (5/17) or HCP databases (5/17), with only one study providing a detailed description of the sampling frame. HCPs were selected mainly using probabilistic sampling (10/17) and patients using non‐probabilistic sampling (6/8). Only a few studies compared participating with non‐participating HCPs/sites (5/17) and patients (3/8). Eight studies reported that their results were generalisable.

Conclusions

Overall, the study documents provided insufficient details to understand the rationale behind the sampling decisions. More standardisation and guidance in reporting the sampling strategy and operational considerations applicable to these types of studies would support transparency and facilitate the evaluation of representativeness of the study results.
Pre‐clinical and clinical applications of thermoreversible hydrogels in biomedical engineering: a review
Authors: Constantinou Anna P , Georgiou Theoni K
Published: June 2021

Thermoreversible polymer hydrogels (TRGs) are physical aqueous networks triggered by temperature that find potential applications in tissue engineering (TE) and drug/gene delivery. When systems with lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behaviour are used, the aqueous solution of polymer is mixed with cells or drugs/genes, depending on the desired application, at room temperature and then injected in vivo to form a hydrogel. This in situ forming hydrogel acts as a matrix for tissue regeneration or controlled and targeted release of the compound. This review focuses on discussing the studies in which synthetic TRGs with LCST behaviour have been applied in vivo in model animals. These studies are categorised depending on the general structure of the polymer, as follows: (i) poloxamers (also known as Pluronics®), (ii) degradable polymers, (iii) poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide), (iv) poly(organophosphazene) and (v) poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline). In general, when the system is optimised, TRGs provide sustained and topical release of the drugs, thus minimising the undesired side effects. When applied in the TE field, tissue formation was observed. Interestingly, two polymers have reached clinical trials, namely poloxamer 407 (P407, Pluronic® F127, often combined with P188, F68) and Regel® (the formulation of Regel® with the anticancer agent paclitaxel is known as Oncogel®), indicating the challenges that need to be overcome before successful application in clinics. © 2021 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
UV–thermal‐cured cycloaliphatic epoxy composites with enhanced mechanical properties via Ca2+‐modified nanocrystalline cellulose
Authors: Lv Jing , Hu Dechao , Ma Wenshi
Published: June 2021

UV–thermal‐cured cycloaliphatic epoxy resin (CAE) has received great attention due to high curing efficiency, low energy consumption and wide application. However, this rigid polymer with a highly crosslinked network tends to exhibit substantial brittleness. Herein, a novel toughening agent was successfully prepared by modifying nanocrystalline cellulose with Ca2+ (NCC‐Ca). The chemical structure of NCC‐Ca was characterized using Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies. Mechanical properties, moisture absorption and thermal properties of UV–thermal‐cured NCC/CAE and NCC‐Ca/CAE composites were comprehensively evaluated. With a NCC‐Ca content of 0.7 wt%, the impact strength of NCC‐Ca/CAE composites was maximized at 5.96 kJ m−2, while the flexural strength of NCC‐Ca/CAE composites with 0.5 wt% of NCC‐Ca was maximized at 52.02 MPa. Along with the improvement in mechanical properties, NCC‐Ca can also increase the glass transition temperature of CAE composites. Moreover, the toughening mechanism of the NCC‐Ca/CAE composites is also discussed. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Docking‐based generation of antibodies mimicking Cry1A/1B protein binding sites as potential insecticidal agents against diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella)
Authors: Xie Yajing , Xu Chongxin , Gao Meijing , Zhang Xiao , Lu Lina , Hu Xiaodan , Chen Wei , Jurat‐Fuentes Juan L , Zhu Qing , Liu Yuan , Lin Manman , Zhong Jianfeng , Liu Xianjin
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Broad use of insecticidal Cry proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis in biopesticides and transgenic crops has resulted in cases of practical field resistance, highlighting the need for novel approaches to insect control. Previously we described an anti‐Cry1Ab idiotypic‐antibody (B12‐scFv) displaying toxicity against rice leafroller (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) larvae, supporting the potential of antibodies for pest control. The goal of the present study was to generate insecticidal antibodies against diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) larvae.

RESULTS

Four genetically engineered antibodies (GEAbs) were designed in silico from B12‐scFv using three‐dimensional (3D) structure and docking predictions to alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as a Cry1Ac receptor in P. xylostella. Among these GEAbs, the GEAb‐dVL antibody consisting of two light chains had overlapping binding sites with Cry1A and Cry1B proteins and displayed high binding affinity to P. xylostella midgut brush border membrane (BBM) proteins. Proteins in BBM identified by pull‐down assays as binding to GEAb‐dVL included an ABC transporter and V‐ATPase subunit A protein. Despite lacking the α‐helical structures in Cry1A that are responsible for pore formation, ingestion of GEAb‐dVL disrupted the P. xylostella larval midgut epithelium and resulted in toxicity. Apoptotic genes were activated in gut cells upon treatment with GEAb‐dVL.

CONCLUSION

This study describes the first insecticidal GEAb targeting P. xylostella by mimicking Cry proteins. Data support that GEAb‐dVL toxicity is associated to activation of intracellular cell death pathways, in contrast to pore‐formation associated toxicity of Cry proteins. This work provides a foundation for the design of novel insecticidal antibodies for insect control. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Potential ofFicus caricaextracts againstEuschistus heros: Toxicity of major active compounds and selectivity against beneficial insects
Authors: Britto Isabella O , Araújo Sabrina H C , Toledo Pedro F S , Lima Graziela D A , Salustiano Iorrana V , Alves Janaína R , Mantilla‐Afanador Javier G , Kohlhoff Markus , Oliveira Eugenio E , Leite João Paulo V
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Using plant‐based extracts and their constituents has been suggested as an alternative tool to replace or integrate with the synthetic compounds used to manage insect pests. Here, we evaluated the potential of extracts obtained fromFicus caricaLinn (Moraceae) branches and leaves against the Neotropical brown stink bug,Euschistus heros, one of the most prevalent insect pests in soybean fields. We further isolated and evaluated the toxicity of the extracts' major components againstE. heros. Additionally, by using computational docking analysis and toxicological approaches, we assessed the physiological basis for the selectivity of these extracts against beneficial insects such as pollinator bees (i.e.Apis melliferaand the Neotropical stingless beePartamona helleri), ladybeetles (Eriopis connexaandColeomegilla maculata), and lacewings (Chrysoperla externa).

RESULTS

Our results demonstrate that branch (LC50 = 5.9 [4.7–7.1] mg mL–1) and leaf (LC50 = 14.1 [12.5–15.4] mg mL–1) extracts exhibited similar toxicity againstE. heros. Our phytochemical analysis revealed psoralen and bergapten furanocoumarins as the major components of the extract. Based on our computational predictions, these molecules' differential abilities to physically interact with the acetylcholinesterases ofE. herosand beneficial insects play relevant roles in their selectivity actions. The estimated LC90values of branch (30.0 mg mL–1) and leaf (30.0 mg mL–1) extracts killed less than 12% of the beneficial insects.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our findings revealed that furanocoumarin‐rich extracts obtained fromF. caricaextracts have the potential to be used as alternative tools in the integrated management of stink bug pests. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Capped polyethylene glycol esters of fatty acids as novel active principles for weed control
Authors: Campos Javier , Verdeguer Mercedes , Baur Peter
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Ever since the beginning of agriculture, yields have been threatened by weeds. Chemical weed control is far more effective and economical than other methods. The frequent use of herbicides has led to environmental and human health concerns, resulting in the banning of several herbicides and challenges for the future of important active compounds such as glyphosate.

RESULTS

The herbicidal activity of sustainable alternatives based on certain esters of fatty acids (FA), the action of which is unrelated to the free acid, on common weeds is assessed and reported. The 13 derivatives of FA showed better physicochemical properties than pelargonic acid‐based herbicides. All the reported compounds have phytotoxic activity, the highest efficacy being displayed by the methyl end‐capped polyethylene glycol (mPEG) ester of pelargonic acid having 6EO (ethylene oxide). This mPEG ester showed equal or better phytotoxicity than the pelargonic acid benchmark at reduced application rate and spray volume. The active compound is a liquid at ambient temperatures, has no bad smell and is not volatile, in contrast to pelargonic acid. Notably, this active compound can be the final product, can be sprayed without adjuvants and is relatively easy to co‐formulate.

CONCLUSION

A new lead substance is presented that is a sustainable alternative to current contact herbicides. In particular, it has potential application on railways, in precision agriculture and as a harvest aid. Its good performance and technical properties suggest this mPEG ester group may also overcome the volatility‐related problems of other organic acids such as auxins. © 2021 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
RNAi‐mediated silencing of the autophagy‐related gene NlATG3 inhibits survival and fecundity of the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Ye Chenglong , Feng Yalin , Yu Feifei , Jiao Qiqi , Wu Jiangen , Ye Zihong , Zhang Pengjun , Sun Chuanxin , Pang Kun , Hao Peiying , Yu Xiaoping
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, is a serious insect pest of rice. Autophagy and its related gene ATG3 play multiple roles in insects. However, information about the functions of ATG3 in BPH (NlATG3) is unavailable, and its potential as a target for pest control remains unclear.

RESULTS

RT‐qPCR results showed a relatively low expression of NlATG3 in 1st–4th‐instar nymphs, which increased through 9‐day‐old adults. The expression of NlATG3 increased continuously in 1‐day‐old through 5‐day‐old eggs, whereas it decreased thereafter. The mRNA level of NlATG3 was markedly higher in the ovary (1.16) and head (1.00) compared to the rest body parts of BPH adults. Injecting nymphs with dsNlATG3 at doses from 62.5 to 250 ng per insect had strong lethal effect upon them. For the 5th‐instar nymphs, all individuals died within 5 days after receiving the dsNlATG3, and importantly, no individual successfully molted. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the new cuticle of nymphs injected with dsNlATG3 became loose and curved, which is clearly different from that of the control. Correspondingly, the obvious vesicles in epidermal cells disappeared after dsNlATG3‐treatment. RNAi of NlATG3 significantly reduced the total number of eggs laid per female as well as the eggs' hatchability, especially in the dsNlATG3♀ × dsGFP♂ group, whose total number of eggs laid per female largely decreased by 80.4%, and whose eggs' hatchability was significantly reduced from 95.7% to zero, when compared with the control (dsGFP♀ × dsGFP♂).

CONCLUSION

NlATG3 is a promising target for developing RNAi‐based insect management strategies. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Use of a modified Burow's solution to treat canine otitis externa: A randomised comparative clinical study
Authors: Sadeghi Sam , Kamrani Alireza , Kuc Urszula , Polissar Nayak , Selukar Subodh , Sadeghi Sina
Published: June 2021

Background

Given the increase in antimicrobial drug resistance of several pathogens that affect the ear, there is a need for alternative therapy for canine otitis externa (OE). We hypothesised that the efficacy of modified Burow's solution would be non‐inferior to that of standard treatment with Surolan.

Methods

The treatment success rate of a topical aluminum acetate 2% and betamethasone 0.1% (modified Burow's) otic solution was compared with that of a standard topical otic treatment of polymyxin B sulfate, prednisolone acetate and miconazole (Surolan) suspension in a prospective, open‐label clinical trial. For 10 days, 142 dogs (232 ears) with OE were treated with modified Burow's solution or Surolan. The primary study endpoint was the cure rate at 10 days. Clinical efficacy was analysed as a secondary endpoint but without assessment for non‐inferiority.

Results

The 10‐day OE cure rate was 65% and 59% in the Burow's and Surolan groups, respectively. The modified Burow's solution was non‐inferior to Surolan at a non‐inferiority margin of –11.5% and was more clinically effective than Surolan in dogs with OE caused by yeast or bacteria.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate that modified Burow's solution is an effective treatment for OE in dogs.
Geometry on the variety of subspaces with positive definite form: geometry of the Grassmann spaces over generalized hyperbolic spaces
Authors: Prażmowski K.
Published: June 2021

We consider Grassmann structures defined on the family consisting of subspaces on which a given nondegenerate bilinear form defined on a real vector space is positive definite. One may call such structures Grassmann spaces over generalized hyperbolic spaces. We show that the underlying (generalized) hyperbolic space can be recovered in terms of its Grassmannian, and the underlying projective space (equipped with respective associated polarity) can be recovered in terms of the generalized hyperbolic space defined over it.
Testing for overall and cluster convergence of housing rents using robust methodology: evidence from Polish provincial capitals
Authors: Tomal Mateusz
Published: June 2021

The aim of this paper is to test for overall and cluster convergence of housing rents across Polish provincial capitals and to identify drivers of convergence club formation. In order to achieve the goal of the study, several novel convergence tests were used, including the Kong et al. (J Econom 209:185–207, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeconom.2018.12.022) and Phillips and Sul (Econometrica 75:1771–1855, 2007. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-0262.2007.00811.x) approaches. Moreover, club convergence analysis was carried out in four different configurations, varying in the technique of trend component extraction from the data. In particular, three well-known methods of time series decomposition were used, i.e. the Hodrick–Prescott, Butterworth and Christiano–Fitzgerald filters, as well as the most recent boosted Hodrick–Prescott filter. The results indicated that rental prices across the studied cities do not share a common path in the long run. It is possible, however, to identify convergence clubs where rents are moving towards a club-specific steady state. Detailed analysis of the structure of estimated clusters showed that data filtering using the boosted Hodrick–Prescott method leads to the most reliable allocation of cities to convergence clubs. Moreover, the estimation of logit models revealed that the likelihood of any two cities belonging to the same convergence club depends mainly on similar levels in terms of the unemployment rate, housing stock, city area, and the number of students. Finally, recommendations for local and national policy-makers concerning the development of the rental market have been formulated, particularly in the areas of urban land-use planning policy, housing legislation and public–private partnerships.