bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation ofPIG‐A‐mutated granulocytes and ex‐vivo binucleated micronucleated lymphocytes frequencies after breast cancer radiotherapy in humans
Authors: Bonetto Rémi M. , Castel Pierre , Robert Stéphane P. , Tassistro Virginie M. , Claeys‐Bruno Magalie , Sergent Michelle , Delecourt Camille A. , Cowen Didier , Carcopino Xavier , Orsière Thierry G.
Published: November 2020

Although thePIG‐Agene mutation frequency (MF) is considered a good proxy to evaluate the somatic MF in animals, evidence remains scarce in humans. In this study, a granulocytePIG‐A‐mutant assay was evaluated in patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT) for breast cancer. Breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant RT were prospectively enrolled. RT involved the whole breast, with (WBNRT) or without (WBRT) nodal area irradiation. Blood samples were obtained from participants before (T0) RT, and T1, T2, and T3 samples were collected 3 weeks after the initiation of RT, at the end of RT, and at least 10 weeks after RT discontinuation, respectively. The MF was assessed using a flow cytometry protocol identifyingPIG‐A‐mutant granulocytes. Cytokinesis‐blocked micronucleated lymphocyte (CBML) frequencies were also evaluated. Thirty patients were included, and five of them had received chemotherapy prior to RT. The mean (±SD)PIG‐AMFs were 7.7 (±12.1) per million at T0, 5.2 (±8.6) at T1, 6.4 (±8.0) at T2 and 3.8 (±36.0) at T3. No statistically significant increases were observed between thePIG‐AMF at T0 and the MFs at other times. RT significantly increased the CBML frequencies: 7.9 ‰ (±3.1‰) versus 33.6‰ (±17.2‰) (p< .0001). By multivariate analysis, the CBML frequency was correlated with age at RT initiation (p= .043) and irradiation volume at RT discontinuation (p= .0001) but not with chemotherapy. RT for breast cancer therapy failed to induce an increase in thePIG‐AMF. ThePIG‐Aassay in humans needs further evaluation, in various genotoxic exposures and including various circulating human cells.
Extreme Fast‐Charging of Lithium‐Ion Cells: Effect on Anode and Electrolyte
Authors: Yang Zhenzhen , Morrissette James W. , Meisner Quinton , Son Seoung-Bum , Trask Stephen E. , Tsai Yifen , Lopykinski Susan , Naik Seema , Bloom Ira
Published: November 2020

Herein, the effects of charge rate in coin cells containing NMC532/1506‐T graphite are investigated. The cells are cycled at room temperature using charge rates of 1‐, 2‐, 4‐, and 8‐C and discharged at the 1‐C rate for 50 cycles. The amounts of lithium and LiF are found to be highly correlated with charge time. Three decomposition products are identified in the organic electrolyte. The proposed, empirical formulae for these compounds are C14H33O15P3, C16H37O15P3, and C11H22O7PF; all are most likely organophosphates formed by the reaction of organic electrolyte decomposition products with LiPF6 or P(=O)F3. The relative concentrations of these organics do not display sensitivity to charge rate. These results imply that a new performance fade mechanism is not introduced by electrolyte decomposition.
Design and demonstration of an islanded hybrid microgrid for an enormous motel with the appropriate solicitation of superfluous energy by using iHOGA and matlab
Authors: Shezan Sk. A.
Published: November 2020

The urge for Electrical Power is escalating regularly at an increased rate due to the internationalization and progression of civilization. However, proper economic consumption of additional energy produced from the Islanded Hybrid Microgrid System (IHMS) that has not been consumed by the load is a major challenge globally. To overcome the above mentioned summon, this research focuses on a multi‐optimal combination of stand‐alone IHMS for Tioman Motel located at Tioman Island, Malaysia with an efficient exertion of redundant energy. To avail of this excess energy efficiently, an electrical heater along with a storage tank has been designed concerning diversion load having proper energy management. Furthermore, the system design has adopted the improved hybrid optimization by genetic algorithms (IHOGA) software for profitable and practical analysis of the designated configuration. Moreover, the optimal size of every module has been tested and analyzed through MATLAB Simulink and stabilized the whole system by representing the values of 1297 and 15 096 kW have been determined as the approximated peak and average load per day for the Motel, respectively. Moreover, the optimized IHMS is comprehended of Photovoltaic (PV) cells, Diesel Generator, Wind Turbine, Battery, and Converter. Adjacent to this, the optimized system ensued in having a net present cost (NPC) of $19.77 million, Renewable Fraction (RF) of 23%, cost of energy (COE) of $0.175/kWh, CO2 of 1 726 825 kg/year and excess energy of 532.26MWh per annum. Whereas, the system involved with the diesel generator lead a COE of $0.315/kWh, CO2 of 6 213 353 kg/year and NPC of $22.12 million. Additionally, this design alone with diesel generator has a higher CO2 emission rate, COE and NPC compared to optimized IHMS. On the other hand, the amount of excess energy is effectively utilized with an electrical heater as a diversion load.
Dechlorane Plus Biomagnification and Transmission through Prairie Food Webs in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Chen Wenming , Bao Junsong , Bu Te , Jin Hongli , Liu Yiming , Li Tianwei , Wang Huiting , Zhao Pengyuan , Wang Ying , Hu Jicheng , Jin Jun
Published: November 2020

Dechlorane Plus (DP) is found widely in the environment. It is important to study DP enrichment and biomagnification in terrestrial ecosystems to improve our understanding of the possible effects of DP on the environment and human health. A total of 90 samples, including plant and animal tissues, were collected from Xilingol Prairie in Inner Mongolia, China. The DP concentrations in different species were assessed, and transmission of DP through food webs containing ectotherms and endotherms was assessed. The compound was detected in the biotic samples (plant; range 0.133–0.422 ng/g dry wt), in animal muscle (range: not dected–5.70 ng/g lipid wt), and in animal hair (range: not dected–2.03 ng/g dry wt), indicating that DP is present in remote environments such as Xilingol Prairie. These findings suggest that DP can undergo long-distance transport in the environment. Biomagnification factors (ectotherms: range 0.146–88.0, endotherms: range 0.866–17.2) and anti-DP/total DP concentration ratios (fanti values of 0.412–0.787) for the prairie animals were calculated. Ectotherms were found to selectively enrich syn-DP, and stereoselective enrichment increased moving up the food web. Lower-trophic-level endotherms strongly stereoselectively enriched syn-DP, and higher-trophic-level endotherms stereoselectively enriched anti-DP. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:413–421. © 2020 SETAC
Correlations between Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Body Morphometrics in Fledgling Shearwaters Impacted by Plastic Consumption from a Remote Pacific Island
Authors: Szabo Drew , Lavers Jennifer L. , Shimeta Jeff , Green Mark P. , Mulder Raoul A. , Clarke Bradley O.
Published: November 2020

We investigated the concentrations of 45 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in fledgling flesh-footed shearwater (Ardenna carneipes; n = 33) and wedge-tailed shearwater (A. pacifica; n = 9) livers via liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and their relationship to body morphometrics and ingested plastic mass recorded in 2019 on Lord Howe Island (NSW, Australia). Sixteen PFASs were detected, of which perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) was the dominant compound, detected in 100% of birds (1.34–13.4 ng/g wet wt). Long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids, including perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA; <0.04–0.79 ng/g wet wt) and perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA; <0.05–1.6 ng/g wet wt) were detected in >50% of birds. There was a positive correlation between PFDA and PFTrDA concentrations and wing chord length (Rs = 0.36, p = 0.0204; Rs = 0.44, p = 0.0037, respectively), and between PFDA concentrations and total body mass (Rs = 0.33, p = 0.032), suggesting that these compounds may impact shearwater fledgling morphometrics. Plastic was present in the intestinal tract of 79% of individuals (<7.6 g), although there was no correlation between PFAS concentrations and plastic mass, indicating that ingested plastic is not the likely primary exposure source. The widespread occurrence of PFASs in fledgling marine birds from a relatively pristine location in the Southern Hemisphere suggests that further studies in adult shearwaters and other marine birds are warranted to investigate whether there are any long-term physiological effects on bird species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:799–810. © 2020 SETAC

Abstract

Background: Image of Lord Howe Island looking south towards Mount Gower. Map: Location of Lord Howe Island (red star) in relation to Australia and New Zealand. Bird: Artists impression of the Procellariidae family of birds, including the Flesh-footed Shearwater and the Wedge-tailed Shearwater. Graph: Sum concentrations of eight classes of PFASs detected in livers from juvenile Wedge-tailed and Flesh-footed Shearwaters from Lord Howe Island in 2019. PFAS = per- and polyfluoralkyl substances; PFCA = perfluorocarboxylic acids; PFSA = perfluoroalkylsulfonic acids; FTCA = fluorotelomer carboxylic acids; FTSA = fluorotelomer sulfonic acid; PASF = perfluoroalkyl sulfonyl fluoride; PFES = perfluoroalkyl ether sulfonic acid; diPAP = fluorotelomer phosphate diester; PFPiA = sodium bisheptadecafluorooctylphosphinate.
Recent Developments in Species Sensitivity Distribution Modeling
Authors: Fox D.R. , van Dam R.A. , Fisher R. , Batley G.E. , Tillmanns A.R. , Thorley J. , Schwarz C.J. , Spry D.J. , McTavish K.
Published: November 2020

The species sensitivity distribution (SSD) is a statistical approach that is used to estimate either the concentration of a chemical that is hazardous to no more than x% of all species (the HCx) or the proportion of species potentially affected by a given concentration of a chemical. Despite a significant body of published research and critical reviews over the past 20 yr aimed at improving the methodology, the fundamentals remain unchanged. Although there have been some recent suggestions for improvements to SSD methods in the literature, in general, few of these suggestions have been formally adopted. Furthermore, critics of the approach can rightly point to the fact that differences in technical implementation can lead to marked differences in results, thereby undermining confidence in SSD approaches. Despite the limitations, SSDs remain a practical tool and, until a demonstrably better inferential framework is available, developments and enhancements to conventional SSD practice will and should continue. We therefore believe the time has come for the scientific community to decide how it wants SSD methods to evolve. The present study summarizes the current status of, and elaborates on several recent developments for, SSD methods, specifically, model averaging, multimodality, and software development. We also consider future directions with respect to the use of SSDs, with the ultimate aim of helping to facilitate greater international collaboration and, potentially, greater harmonization of SSD methods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:293–308. © 2020 SETAC
Effects of dietary energy levels on rumen fermentation, microbiota, and gastrointestinal morphology in growing ewes
Authors: Wang Qiye , Wang Yancan , Wang Xin , Dai Chunpeng , Tang Wensheng , Li Jianzhong , Huang Pengfei , Li Yali , Ding Xueqin , Huang Jing , Hussain Tarique , Yang Huansheng , Zhu Mingzhi
Published: November 2020

This study investigated whether dietary metabolizable energy (ME) could generate dynamical effects on rumen fermentation, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) morphology, and microbial composition of growing ewes. A total of twenty‐eight female Hu lambs were randomly allotted to two treatments with different dietary ME levels: 9.17 (FEA) and 10.41 MJ/kg (FEB). These lambs were further made ready for a 67‐day feeding trial. Results showed that the molar proportions of butyrate (p = .020), iso‐valerate (p = .028), and valerate (p = .005) were significantly higher in the FEB group than those in the FEA group. The results of the GIT morphologic properties showed that the villus height (VH) (p = .005) was significantly higher and crypt depth was significantly deeper (CD) (p = .005) in the duodenum and that the rumen papillary height (PH) was significantly higher (p = .020) in FEB group compared with the FEA group. High‐throughput sequencing results showed that 1826 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained and that the OTU number (p = .039), the ACE (p = .035), and Chao1 indices (p = .005) were lower in the FEB group. Moreover, 76 genera belonging to 21 phyla were detected in all samples; the relative abundance of Papillibacter (p = .036) and Flexilinea (p = .046) was significantly lower in the high energy group, whereas the relative abundance of unidentified Lachnospiraceae (p = .019), Acetitomaculum (p = .029), unidentified Veillonellaceae (p = .017), Anaerovibrio (p = .005), and Succinivibrio (p = .035) was significantly higher in the FEB group at the genus level. Furthermore, the relative abundance of genes and metabolic pathways were predicted by PICRUSt. The relative abundance of gene families related to carbohydrate metabolism was particularly higher (p = .027) in the FEB group. In summary, these results reveal that the dietary energy levels altered the composition and function of rumen microbiota and GIT morphology in growing female Hu sheep and provide a reference for optimizing diet formula and 10.41MJ/kg of ME level has been recommended in the growing period.
Derivatives use and the value of cash holdings: Evidence from the U.S. oil and gas industry
Authors: Choi Sanghak , Jang Hyeonung , Kim Daejin , Seo Byoung Ki
Published: November 2020

We examine the effect of the oil and gas firms' use of derivatives for hedging risks on the marginal value of cash holdings. Analyzing 155 U.S. oil and gas producers from 1998 to 2017, we find that the use of derivatives for hedging risks, especially oil and gas‐related risk, reduces the marginal value of corporate cash holdings. Furthermore, the effect of using derivatives is stronger for firms exposed to higher risk. Our findings imply that cash holdings and derivatives use act as substitutes in hedging risk in this industry.
Volatility‐managed commodity futures portfolios
Authors: Kang Jangkoo , Kwon Kyung Yoon
Published: November 2020

This paper examines whether the volatility management suggested by Moreira and Muir to improve profitability in the equity market can generate significant benefits both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample in commodity futures markets as well. The in‐sample results show the significant success of volatility management from the 12‐month momentum and market portfolio, but the out‐of‐sample results show that volatility management fails to improve real‐time performance, which indicates that in‐sample results are not obtainable for real‐time investors in the commodity futures markets. To understand the failure of volatility management, we perform the simulation analysis and find that a negative risk‐return relation seems to play a pivotal role in addition to strong volatility persistency to make volatility management successful.
Zur Tragfähigkeit von granularen Lastverteilungsschichten über Stabilisierungssäulen
Authors: Tinat Christopher , Kirstein Johannes , Grabe Jürgen
Published: November 2020

Ein Anwendungsgebiet von Stabilisierungssäulen (STS) stellt die Baugrundverbesserung für großflächige, setzungsempfindliche Strukturen, wie (faser‐)bewehrte Bodenplatten von Logistikzentren und anderen Hallenkomplexen dar. Zur wirtschaftlichen Optimierung von Dicke und Bewehrung der Bodenplatte wird häufig eine Lastverteilungsschicht (LVS) oberhalb der Säulen eingebaut. Ziel der LVS ist es, die unbewehrten Säulen von dem Bauwerk zu entkoppeln und die Bemessung der aufgelagerten Platte mit dem Ansatz einer gleichmäßig flächigen Bettung auf der LVS zu ermöglichen. Dabei ist die Interaktion zwischen Säulen, LVS und Bodenplatte zu berücksichtigen, die zusätzliche Beanspruchungen in der LVS und in der Bodenplatte hervorrufen können. Im vorliegenden Aufsatz wird das Nachweisschema für granulare LVS über STS bei starrer Lasteinleitung z. B. aus bewehrten Bodenplatten nach den französischen ASIRI‐Empfehlungen unter Berücksichtigung des konventionellen Grundbruchnachweises nach DIN 4017 vorgestellt. In einer Parameterstudie werden Einflussgrößen auf die Grenzspannung der LVS bewertet. Hierzu werden ergänzend die Ergebnisse von Finite‐Elemente‐(FE)‐Berechnungen an einer rotationssymmetrischen Einheitszelle mit einer Steifigkeitsreduktion des Bodens zwischen den Säulen herangezogen. Die FE‐Berechnungen zeigen, dass die Grenzspannung bei einer gering mächtigen LVS (HLVS < Hmax ) zunimmt. Jedoch sind bis zur kritischen Höhe Hkrit zusätzliche Biegemomente in der darüber liegenden Bodenplatte zu berücksichtigen. Das Biegemoment nimmt mit einer Verringerung der LVS‐Mächtigkeit zu.
The effect of BHA on oxidative stability of biodiesel from different sources
Authors: Encinar José María , Nogales Sergio , González Juan Félix
Published: November 2020

The use of biodiesel is important, as it is a more sustainable energy source, obtained in many cases from vegetable oils and wastes such as fried used oils. In that way, there are plenty of advantages derived from its use, such as higher flash and combustion points. On the other hand, the oxidative stability of these samples is shorter, not complying with the European standards.

That is the reason why the use of antioxidants, such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), is vital to comply with the standards and make biodiesel marketable. The aim of this research work was to study the effect of BHA at different concentrations (up to 2000 ppm, depending on the kind of sample) on several biodiesel samples derived from several vegetable oils (rapeseed, seed, and used fried oils).

The results obtained pointed out the improvement of the induction point for all the samples as BHA concentration increased. Moreover, there was an influence of the raw material composition (concerning fatty acid profile) on the induction point of the biodiesel obtained and the subsequent optimum concentration of BHA.

Thus, the fatty acid profile was different depending on the sample, and the higher amount of methyl linoleate of seed and used fried biodiesel was important, which implied shorter induction points in these samples. As a consequence, for the latter, higher amounts of BHA (around 1400 ppm) were needed. As a conclusion, all the samples studied showed suitable oxidative stability values (over 8 hours) with the use of BHA (at variable optimum concentrations). © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effectiveness of non‐pharmacological interventions targeting neuropsychiatric symptoms among persons with preclinical and mild dementia: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Rose Sin Yi , Yu Doris Sau Fung , Li Polly Wai Chi , Masika Golden Mwakibo
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review and network meta‐analysis examining the effects of non‐pharmacological interventions on neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in a community‐dwelling population with preclinical and mild dementia to identify the design characteristics of more effective interventions.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in 10 electronic databases. Two reviewers independently appraised the methodological quality of studies using the Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. A pairwise meta‐analysis was performed to estimate the standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals. Network meta‐analysis was then used to estimate the relative effects and rankings of different interventions.

Results

Twenty‐one studies involving 1773 participants were included. Seven studies focused on preclinical dementia, and 14 studies focused on mild dementia. The majority of studies reported a single domain of NPS (depression, anxiety, apathy or agitation) rather than overall NPS. Data on depression were pooled. Pairwise analysis and network meta‐analysis indicated that multimodal interventions (SMD = −0.47,p= 0.01) were superior to psycho‐behavioral educative interventions (SMD = −0.04;p= 0.65), cognitive training (SMD = −0.27,p= 0.10), and art‐based interventions for improving depression. The more crucial design characteristics included those that emphasized skill transferal into daily life, psycho‐behavioral content to encourage a positive outlook and self‐identity, and disease‐specific educational content to improve symptom management.

Conclusions

This review indicated that multimodal interventions with cognitive, psycho‐behavioral and educative components were the most effective approaches for improving depression in patients with preclinical and mild dementia. More comprehensive evaluations using standardized and robust measures of NPS in patients with preclinical dementia are warranted.
Cognitive variability, brain aging, and cognitive decline in late‐life major depression
Authors: Manning Kevin J. , Preciado‐Pina Joshua , Wang Lihong , Fitzgibbon Kimberly , Chan Grace , Steffens David C.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Older adults with late‐life major depression (LLMD) are at increased risk of dementia. Dispersion, or within‐person performance variability across cognitive tests, is a potential marker of cognitive decline. This study examined group differences in dispersion between LLMD and nondepressed healthy controls (HC) and investigated whether dispersion was a predictor of cognitive performance 1 year later in LLMD. We also explored demographic, clinical, and structural imaging correlates of dispersion in LLMD and HC. We hypothesized that dispersion would be greater in LLMD compared with HC and would be associated with worse cognitive performance 1 year later in LLMD.

Design

Participants were enrolled in the Neurobiology of Late‐Life Depression, a naturalistic longitudinal investigation of the predictors of poor illness course in LLMD.

Participants

The baseline sample consisted of 121 older adults with LLMD and 39 HC; of these subjects, 94 LLMD and 35 HC underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). One‐year cognitive data were available for 107 LLMD patients.

Measurements

All participants underwent detailed clinical and structural MRI at baseline. LLMD participants also completed a comprehensive cognitive evaluation 1 year later.

Results

Higher test dispersion was evident in LLMD when compared with nondepressed controls. Greater baseline dispersion predicted 1‐year cognitive decline in LLMD patients even when controlling for baseline cognitive functioning and demographic and clinical confounders. Dispersion was correlated with white matter lesions in LLMD but not HC. Dispersion was also correlated with anxiety in both LLMD and HC.

Conclusions

Dispersion is a marker of neurocognitive integrity that requires further exploration in LLMD.
Constrained spherical deconvolution of nonspherically sampled diffusion MRI data
Authors: Morez Jan , Sijbers Jan , Vanhevel Floris , Jeurissen Ben
Published: November 2020

Constrained spherical deconvolution (CSD) of diffusion‐weighted MRI (DW‐MRI) is a popular analysis method that extracts the full white matter (WM) fiber orientation density function (fODF) in the living human brain, noninvasively. It assumes that the DW‐MRI signal on the sphere can be represented as the spherical convolution of a single‐fiber response function (RF) and the fODF, and recovers the fODF through the inverse operation. CSD approaches typically require that the DW‐MRI data is sampled shell‐wise, and estimate the RF in a purely spherical manner using spherical basis functions, such as spherical harmonics (SH), disregarding any radial dependencies. This precludes analysis of data acquired with nonspherical sampling schemes, for example, Cartesian sampling. Additionally, nonspherical sampling can also arise due to technical issues, for example, gradient nonlinearities, resulting in a spatially dependent bias of the apparent tissue densities and connectivity information. Here, we adopt a compact model for the RFs that also describes their radial dependency. We demonstrate that the proposed model can accurately predict the tissue response for a wide range of b‐values. On shell‐wise data, our approach provides fODFs and tissue densities indistinguishable from those estimated using SH. On Cartesian data, fODF estimates and apparent tissue densities are on par with those obtained from shell‐wise data, significantly broadening the range of data sets that can be analyzed using CSD. In addition, gradient nonlinearities can be accounted for using the proposed model, resulting in much more accurate apparent tissue densities and connectivity metrics.
Neoadjuvant selpercatinib for advanced medullary thyroid cancer
Authors: Jozaghi Yelda , Zafereo Mark , Williams Michelle D. , Gule‐Monroe Maria K. , Wang Jennifer , Grubbs Elizabeth G. , Vaporciyan Ara , Hu Mimi I. , Busaidy Naifa , Dadu Ramona , Waguespack Steven G. , Subbiah Vivek , Cabanillas Maria
Published: November 2020

Background

Targeted kinase inhibitors have been increasingly utilized in the treatment of advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) over the last decade. Recently, highly potent next generation selective RET inhibitors have been clinically validated, and selpercatinib was recently Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved for advanced MTC. The advent of highly selective, potent RET inhibitors is broadening the treatment options for patients with RET‐mutated cancers.

Methods

We report the first published case of neoadjuvant selpercatinib followed by surgery for a patient with initially unresectable, widely metastatic, RET‐mutated MTC who was treated on a single patient protocol.

Results

After greater than 50% RECIST response, the patient underwent complete surgical resection followed by selpercatinib resumption. He remains locoregionally disease‐free 21 months after starting therapy with stable metastatic disease (after initial partial response); and calcitonin/CEA continue to decline.

Conclusion

This novel treatment strategy for locoregionally advanced RET‐mutated MTC warrants further study in clinical trials.
Innovations in Hepatitis C Screening and Treatment
Authors: Patel Arpan A. , Bui Aileen , Prohl Eian , Bhattacharya Debika , Wang Su , Branch Andrea D. , Perumalswami Ponni V.
Published: November 2020

New therapies offer hope for a cure to millions of persons living with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. HCV elimination is a global goal that will be difficult to achieve using the traditional paradigms of diagnosis and care. The current standard has evolved toward universal HCV screening and treatment, to achieve elimination goals. There are several steps between HCV diagnosis and cure with major barriers along the way. Innovative models of care can address barriers to better serve hardly reached populations and scale national efforts in the United States and abroad. Herein, we highlight innovative models of HCV care that aid in our progress toward HCV elimination.
The resilience of logjams to floods
Authors: Wohl Ellen , Scamardo Julianne E.
Published: November 2020

Logjams that span the bankfull channel strongly influence hydraulics and downstream fluxes of diverse materials. Several studies quantify the longitudinal distribution of channel‐spanning logjams, but fewer studies examine changes in longitudinal distribution in response to disturbances such as floods. We use 10 years of annual surveys of a population of channel‐spanning logjams along mountain streams in the Southern Rocky Mountains. Surveys from 2010 to 2019 bracket substantial interannual variability in the snowmelt peak flow as well as a rainfall flood in 2013. We characterised the number of logjams per unit length of valley (logjam distribution density) within and between reaches designated based on longitudinally consistent channel and valley geometry. Our primary objectives are to evaluate the influences on logjam distribution density of (i) spatial variations in valley and channel geometry and (ii) temporal variations in peak annual flow. We hypothesized that logjam distribution densities are resilient to disturbance at both spatial scales. At the creek scale, logjam distribution density correlates significantly with increasing ratio of floodplain width to channel width and wood piece length to channel width. Wide, low gradient reaches with greater distribution density exhibit greater interannual variation in distribution density. These reaches lost jams during the 2013 flood but returned to pre‐flood distribution density values by the end of the study. The pattern of greater logjam distribution density in unconfined reaches relative to confined and partially confined reaches is also consistent over the period of the study. We interpret these results as indicating the resilience of logjam distributions to disturbance. The persistence of greater numbers of logjams in wide, low gradient reaches suggests that river restoration employing engineered logjams and wood reintroduction can focus most effectively on these reaches.
Development of concurrent magnetic resonance imaging and volumetric optoacoustic tomography: A phantom feasibility study
Authors: Ren Wuwei , Deán‐Ben Xosé Luís , Augath Mark‐Aurel , Razansky Daniel
Published: November 2020

Optoacoustic tomography (OAT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide highly complementary capabilities for anatomical and functional imaging of living organisms. Herein, we investigate on the feasibility of combining both modalities to render concurrent images. This was achieved by introducing a specifically‐designed copper‐shielded spherical ultrasound array into a preclinical MRI scanner. Phantom experiments revealed that the OAT probe caused minimal distortion in the MRI images, while synchronization of the laser and the MRI pulse sequence enabled defining artifact‐free acquisition windows for OAT. Good dynamic OAT contrast from superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, a commonly used agent for MRI contrast enhancement, was also observed. The hybrid OAT‐MRI system thus provides an excellent platform for cross‐validating functional readings of both modalities. Overall, this initial study serves to establish the technical feasibility of developing a hybrid OAT‐MRI system for biomedical research.
Dual synaptic inhibitions of brainstem neurons by GABA and glycine with impact on Rett syndrome
Authors: Xing Hao , Cui Ningren , Johnson Christopher M. , Faisthalab Zaakir , Jiang Chun
Published: November 2020

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disease caused mostly by mutations in the MECP2 gene. People with RTT show breathing dysfunction attributable to the high rate of sudden death. Previous studies have shown that insufficient GABA synaptic inhibition contributes to the breathing abnormalities in mouse models of RTT, while it remains elusive how the glycine system is affected. We found that optogenetic stimulation of GAD‐expressing neurons in mice produced GABAergic and glycinergic postsynaptic inhibitions of neurons in the hypoglossal nucleus (XII) and the dorsal motor nucleus of vagus (DMNV). By sequential applications of bicuculline and strychnine, such inhibition appeared approximately 44% GABAAergic and 52% glycinergic in XII neurons, and approximately 49% GABAAergic and 46% glycinergic in DMNV neurons. Miniature inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (mIPSCs) in these neurons were approximately 47% GABAAergic and 49% glycinergic in XII neurons, and approximately 48% versus 50% in DMNV neurons, respectively. Consistent with the data, our single‐cell polymerase chain reaction studies indicated that transcripts of GABAA receptor γ2 subunit (GABAARγ2) and glycine receptor β subunit (GlyRβ) were simultaneously expressed in these cells. In MeCP2R168X mice, proportions of GABAAergic and glycinergic mIPSCs became approximately 28% versus 69% in XII neurons, and approximately 31% versus 66% in DMNV cells. In comparison with control mice, the GABAAergic and glycinergic mIPSCs decreased significantly in the XII and DMNV neurons from the MeCP2R168X mice, so did the transcripts of GABAARγ2 and GlyRβ. These results suggest that XII and DMNV neurons adopt dual GABAAergic and glycinergic synaptic inhibitions, and with Mecp2 disruption these neurons rely more on glycinergic synaptic inhibition.
Hsp70 in cancer: A double agent in the battle between survival and death
Authors: Vostakolaei Mehdi A. , Hatami‐Baroogh Leila , Babaei Ghader , Molavi Ommoleila , Kordi Shirafkan , Abdolalizadeh Jalal
Published: November 2020

The heat shock protein (Hsps) superfamily, also known as molecular chaperones, are highly conserved and present in all living organisms and play vital roles in protein fate. The HspA1A (Hsp70‐1), called Hsp70 in this review, is expressed at low or undetectable levels in most unstressed normal cells, but numerous studies have shown that diverse types of tumor cells express Hsp70 at the plasma membrane that leads to resistance to programmed cell death and tumor progression. Hsp70 is released into the extracellular milieu in three forms including free soluble, complexed with cancer antigenic peptides, and exosome forms. Therefore, it seems to be a promising therapeutic target in human malignancies. However, a great number of studies have indicated that both intracellular and extracellular Hsp70 have a dual function. A line of evidence presented that intracellular Hsp70 has a cytoprotective function via suppression of apoptosis and lysosomal cell death (LCD) as well as that extracellular Hsp70 can promote tumorigenesis and angiogenesis. Other evidence showed intracellular Hsp70 can promote apoptosis and membrane‐associated/extracellular Hsp70 can elicit antitumor innate and adaptive immune responses. Given the contradictory functions, as a "double agent," could Hsp70 be a promising tool in the future of targeted cancer therapies? To answer this question, in this review, we will discuss the functions of Hsp70 in cancers besides inhibition and stimulation strategies for targeting Hsp70 along with their challenges.
Lipopolysaccharide reduces USP13 stability through c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase activation in Kupffer cells
Authors: Yu Fan , Li Yanhui , Ye Qinmao , Miao Jiaxing , Taleb Sarah J. , Zhao Yutong , Zhao Jing
Published: November 2020

Protein ubiquitination regulates protein stability, cellular localization, and enzyme activity. Deubiquitinases catalyze the removal of ubiquitin from target proteins and reverse ubiquitination. USP13, a deubiquitinase, has been shown to regulate a variety of cellular responses including inflammation; however, the molecular regulation of USP13 has not been demonstrated. In this study, we revealed that USP13 is degraded in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in Kupffer cells. USP13 levels are significantly decreased in inflamed organs, including liver tissues from septic mice. LPS reduces USP13 protein stability, not transcription, in Kupffer cells. Furthermore, LPS increases USP13 polyubiquitination. Inhibition of proteasome, but not lysosome or immunoproteasome, attenuates LPS‐induced USP13 degradation, suggesting USP13 degradation is mediated by the ubiquitin‐proteasome system. A catalytically inactive form of USP13 exhibits similar degree of degradation compared with USP13 wild‐type, suggesting that USP13 degradation is not dependent on its activity. Furthermore, USP13 degradation is dependent on new protein synthesis. Inhibition of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) attenuates USP13 degradation, indicating that JNK‐dependent new protein synthesis is necessary for USP13 degradation. This study reveals a molecular mechanism of regulation of USP13 degradation in Kupffer cells in response to bacterial endotoxin.
Nutrient removal in sludge extracts and protein production by cultivation of Candida utilis
Authors: Zhou Xinyu , Hu Wanrong , Ran Chaogang , Chen Jing , Xie Tonghui , Zhang Yongkui
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

It is of great benefit to recycle excess sludge, which is rich in inorganic and organic nutrients, as the substrate material for yeast growth. This study focused on the disposal of residual liquid of sludge after pretreatment. Candida utilis was firstly chosen to be cultivated in the sludge hydrolyzate for simultaneous efficient nutrients removal and yeast utilization through aerobic process.

RESULTS

C. utilis cultivated in excess sludge hydrolyzate with 20 g L−1 glucose gained the highest dry weight (6.10 ± 0.15 g L−1) and crude protein yield (1807.68 ± 9.12 mg L−1). Meanwhile, the highest nutrient removal efficiency (TN: 88.5%; TP: 97.1%) was obtained in such conditions. The protein content in the yeast reached 366.7 mg g−1, with all essential amino acids accounting for about 30%, which basically met the nutritional requirements of protein. According to the Excitation‐emission matrix spectra (EEMs) analysis, the yeast can consume most of the organic matter by the end of fermentation.

CONCLUSION

The alternative approach by applying Candida utilis for converting excess sludge into microbial biomass is very efficient when it comes to nutrients removal in excess sludge and producing proteins with a high content of essential amino acids. This study indicated that C. utilis could be an alternative strain to treat excess sludge hydrolyzate with addition of glucose at appropriate concentration. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
An investigation of corrosive effects on zirconia with different crystal structures
Authors: Soygun Koray , Ozer Ali , Ulucan Mehmet Cagatay , Bolayir Giray
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to compare the time‐related corrosive resistance in different corrosive solution environments after sintering of zirconia with different crystal structures. The zirconia samples were produced in pellet form as 12.7 × 3 mm. To determine the time‐related corrosion resistance of the sintered samples in sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), sodium chloride (NaCl), and citric acid (C6H8O7) solutions, the weights were measured at baseline then on the first and fifth days and the microhardness values were calculated. For the evaluation of surface appearance, images were obtained with a scanning electron microscope. The baseline microhardness values of the groups with 3 and 10 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia samples were found to be 1,064 VHN and 1,079 VHN, respectively. The microhardness values of the groups with 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia samples immersed in Na2CO3 1d (1,010 VHN) and 5d (1,060 VHN), and NaCl (1d (1,010 VHN) and 5d (1,055 VHN) were found to be affected more. The microhardness values of the sample group (1,064 VHN) with 10 mol% yttria doped zirconia which was left for 5 days in citric acid were found to be lower than the sample group (1,120 VHN) with 3 mol% yttria added. C6H8O7 was seen to have a greater corrosive effect with increased yttria content and the microhardness value decreased. With longer duration of the samples of all the groups in C6H8O7, NaCl, and Na2CO3 solutions, the surface characteristics of the samples were affected negatively. With prolonged immersion in the corrosive solutions, the resistance to the corrosion causing the changes in the surface topography of the samples was seen to decrease.
Clothianidin decomposition in Missouri wetland soils
Authors: Beringer Chelsey J. , Goyne Keith W. , Lerch Robert N. , Webb Elisabeth B. , Mengel Doreen
Published: November 2020

Neonicotinoid pesticides can persist in soils for extended time periods; however, they also have a high potential to contaminate ground and surface waters. Studies have reported negative effects associated with neonicotinoids and nontarget taxa, including aquatic invertebrates, pollinating insect species, and insectivorous birds. This study evaluated factors associated with clothianidin (CTN) degradation and sorption in Missouri wetland soils to assess the potential for wetland soils to mitigate potential environmental risks associated with neonicotinoids. Solid‐to‐solution partition coefficients (Kd) for CTN sorption to eight wetland soils were determined via single‐point sorption experiments, and sorption isotherm experiments were conducted using the two most contrasting soils. Clothianidin degradation was determined under oxic and anoxic conditions over 60 d. Degradation data were fit to zero‐ and first‐order kinetic decay models to determine CTN half‐life (t0.5). Sorption results indicated CTN sorption to wetland soil was relatively weak (average Kd, 3.58 L kg–1); thus, CTN has the potential to be mobile and bioavailable within wetland soils. However, incubation results showed anoxic conditions significantly increased CTN degradation rates in wetland soils (anoxic average t0.5, 27.2 d; oxic average t0.5, 149.1 d). A significant negative correlation was observed between anoxic half‐life values and soil organic C content (r2 = .782; p = .046). Greater CTN degradation rates in wetland soils under anoxic conditions suggest that managing wetlands to facilitate anoxic conditions could mitigate CTN presence in the environment and reduce exposure to nontarget organisms.
Preparing the genetic counseling workforce for the future in Australasia
Authors: McEwen Alison , Jacobs Chris
Published: November 2020

Current genetic counseling students will graduate into a workforce involving more opportunities, diversity, and uncertainty than any previous generation. Preparing the future genetic counseling workforce is a dynamic challenge, both for the profession and for educators. The dominance of the medical model in the state funded Australian healthcare system creates a power imbalance between doctors and other health professionals. As a result, professional regulation to protect the public from harm in line with the United States, the UK, and Canada only became mandatory in 2019. Professional regulation has the additional benefit of enhancing professional standing and autonomy, enabling genetic counselors to help shape the future of genetic health care in Australia and New Zealand. Within this rapidly evolving environment, we are establishing a new Masters’ program and building a discipline of genetic counseling, working alongside other allied health professionals. Our program involves synchronous and asynchronous learning, greater accessibility, flexibility and, as we have learned in 2020, reduction in disruption during a global pandemic. In this program, we foreground the inherent knowledge, skills, and values of genetic counseling, shifting the focus from provision of genetic and genomic tests, to educating competent, person‐centered, research enabled and culturally safe genetic counselors. As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare students to embrace the uncertainties, challenges, and potential of the genomic era, to seize the many possibilities that lie ahead, and to expand their thinking and vision. We ask our students to be courageous, to step into a deep exploration of their own identity, beliefs, understanding, and experiences of oppression, power, and privilege. We are pushing boundaries, and challenging ourselves and our students to remain always open to possibilities. Equipping students with open eyes and listening ears may be the single most important thing we can do to prepare the genetic counseling workforce of the future to provide the best possible care.
A prospective study monitoring carer distress during (chemo)radiotherapy for head and neck cancer via an electronic platform
Authors: Wishart Laurelie R. , Brown Bena , Nund Rebecca L. , Fotinos Elena , Hutchison Alana R. , Ward Elizabeth C. , Porceddu Sandro V.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Research has shown that electronic platforms can assist data capture of patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) to guide clinical care. In comparison, routine collection of carer‐reported outcome measures (CROMs) to support the patient–carer dyad during cancer treatment has had limited attention. The current study utilised a novel electronic CROM (eCROM) system, ScreenIT Carer, to monitor the prevalence and nature of distress in carers of patients undergoing (chemo)radiotherapy ((C)RT) for head/neck cancer (HNC), and explore factors associated with carer distress.

Methods

Carers completed ScreenIT Carer weekly when attending patients’ (C)RT treatment sessions from planning to 2 weeks post‐treatment. ScreenIT Carer included the Distress Thermometer (DT) and Problem List, and a purpose‐built Mealtime‐Specific DT and Problem list. Data were first examined descriptively, then associations between demographic/treatment‐related factors and distress severity were analysed using mixed‐effects general linear modelling.

Results

135 carers provided 434 ScreenIT Carer entries during the study period (mean entries = three/carer; yielding average adherence rate of 41% (range 11–100%)). A high prevalence of general (59%) and mealtime‐specific distress (46%) was reported by carers. Nature of distress was multifactorial, with emotional problems and the patients’ physical condition/symptoms common contributing factors. Based on multivariate analysis, tumour site, geographical location of residence and time during (C)RT when ScreenIT Carer was completed were significant predictors of carer distress severity.

Conclusions

Carer distress is prevalent and multifactorial during (C)RT. This study highlights the feasibility of utilising eCROM platforms such as ScreenIT Carer, to monitor carer wellbeing and guide supportive care services as part of a holistic care pathway.
Are the socioeconomic impacts associated with tropical cyclones in Mexico exacerbated by local vulnerability and ENSO conditions?
Authors: Dominguez Christian , Jaramillo Alejandro , Cuéllar Palmira
Published: November 2020

Tropical Cyclones (TCs) are among the most dangerous natural hazards because they can cause severe economic losses and high mortality. Climate risk is defined as a metric that depends on social vulnerability and the occurrence of natural hazards. A social vulnerability index was constructed for this study using two metrics: the degree of local marginalization and the local social gap. The accumulated rainfall and duration of extreme precipitation associated with TC passages are examined as a natural hazard during the period 1981–2017. TC days are depicted as days when TC‐related rainfall exceeded the 95th percentile of daily precipitation from May to November, defined as summer precipitation. In this way, changes in climate risk under El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are explored to determine regions where both social vulnerability and TC days are high. These changes are useful to find out when disasters have more chances to occur. In the present study, climate risk was found to increase more than 80% from average in southwestern Mexico during strong El Niño years. Under neutral conditions, climate risk values rise to more than 40% than average over northwestern Mexico. Under strong La Niña conditions, climate risk increases by more than 80% from average over the eastern coast of Mexico. Our approach is validated through a comparison between anomalies in climate risk and disaster costs (socioeconomic impacts). Both local vulnerability and ENSO conditions exacerbate socioeconomic impacts associated with TCs, and an analysis of linear trends in TC rainfall and TC days reveals that most of the coastal regions in Mexico have a significant rising trend in both variables. Thus, Mexico should be prepared to face more TC extreme rainfall events. Suggestions for how Mexico can meet the objectives of international risk agendas are discussed.