bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crack and deformation behavior of composite beams using partial‐depth precast concrete units
Authors: Mager Matthias , Geißler Karsten
Published: April 2020

In ranges with negative moments, crack formation influences the structural behavior of statically indeterminate composite beams under service conditions. Composite beams with partial‐depth precast concrete units show some particularities, which cannot be described accurately using the established methods of calculation. This article presents methods of calculation, which can be used to cover the specific structural behavior and describe crack formation, crack widths and deformations realistically.
Moving Polymers via Photoisomerization
Authors: Liu Yazhi , Sun Shaodong , Wu Si
Published: April 2020

Photoresponsive materials, which can adapt their states and shapes upon light irradiation, have attracted worldwide attention in the past decades. The development of azobenzene‐containing polymers (azopolymers) opens up an avenue for controlling their properties and functions with light. These polymers show shape changes and mechanical responses under the stimulation of light via photoisomerization of azobenzene groups. Herein, this report focuses on the growing research on moving polymers via photoisomerization, including their moving mechanisms and various applications.
Benzimidazole Derivatives as Novel Zika Virus Inhibitors
Authors: Hue Bui Thi Buu , Nguyen Phuong Hong , De Tran Quang , Van Hieu Mai , Jo Eunji , Van Tuan Nguyen , Thoa Than Thi , Anh Le Duc , Son Nguyen Hoang , La Duc Thanh Danh , Dupont‐Rouzeyrol Myrielle , Grailhe Regis , Windisch Marc P.
Published: April 2020

We have synthesized 50 benzimidazole (BMZ) derivatives with 1,2‐phenylenediamines and aromatic aldehydes under mild oxidation conditions by using inexpensive, nontoxic inorganic salt sodium metabisulfite in a one‐pot condensation reaction and screened their ability to interfere with Zika virus (ZIKV) infection utilizing a cell‐based phenotypic assay. Seven BMZs inhibited an African ZIKV strain with a selectivity index (SI=CC50/EC50) of 9–37. Structure‐activity relationship analysis demonstrated that substitution at the C‐2, N‐1, and C‐5 positions of the BMZ ring were important for anti‐ZIKV activity. The hybrid structure of BMZ and naphthalene rings was a structural feature responsible for the high anti‐ZIKV activity. Importantly, BMZs inhibited ZIKV in human neural stem cells, a physiologically relevant system considering the severe congenital anomalies, like microcephaly, caused by ZIKV infection. Compound 39 displayed the highest antiviral efficacy against the African ZIKV strain in Huh‐7 (SI>37) and neural stem cells (SI=12). Compound 35 possessed the highest activity in Vero cells (SI=115). Together, our data indicate that BMZs derivatives have to be considered for the development of ZIKV therapeutic interventions.
The Chicago Consensus on peritoneal surface malignancies: Standards
Authors:   Chicago Consensus Working Group
Published: April 2020

The Chicago Consensus Working Group provides the following multidisciplinary recommendations for the care of patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. This article focuses on the standards of a peritoneal surface malignancy center, standards of billing and coding, standards of operative reports for cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, standards of cytoreductive surgery training, and standards of intraoperative chemotherapy preparation. These guidelines are developed with input from leading experts, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, palliative care physicians, and pharmacists. These guidelines recognize and address the emerging need for increased awareness in the appropriate management of peritoneal surface disease. They are not intended to replace the quest for higher levels of evidence.
The Chicago Consensus on peritoneal surface malignancies: Palliative care considerations
Authors:   Chicago Consensus Working Group
Published: April 2020

The Chicago Consensus Working Group provides multidisciplinary recommendations for palliative care specifically related to peritoneal surface malignancies. These guidelines are developed with input from leading experts including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, gynecologic oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, palliative care physicians, and pharmacists. These guidelines recognize and address the emerging need for increased awareness in the appropriate management of peritoneal surface disease. They are not intended to replace the quest for higher levels of evidence.
The Chicago Consensus on peritoneal surface malignancies: Management of peritoneal mesothelioma
Authors:   Chicago Consensus Working Group
Published: April 2020

The Chicago Consensus Working Group provides multidisciplinary recommendations for the management of peritoneal mesothelioma. These guidelines are developed with input from leading experts, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, palliative care physicians, and pharmacists. These guidelines recognize and address the emerging need for increased awareness of the appropriate management of peritoneal surface disease. They are not intended to replace the quest for higher levels of evidence.
Optimization of nitrogen fertilizer management for improving rice grain yield and nutrient accumulation and mobilization in saline‐alkaline soils
Authors: Guo Xiaohong , Jiang Hongfang , Lan Yuchen , Wang Heying , Xu Lingqi , Yin Dawei , Zheng Guiping , Lv Yandong
Published: April 2020

Soil salinity and alkalinity are key abiotic stresses that limit crop growth and yield worldwide. Balanced N fertilization is important for improving rice (Oryza sativa L.) yield via efficient utilization of P and K under saline and alkaline soil conditions. In this study, a japonica rice cultivar, Kenjing 8, was used to investigate the effects of N fertilizer on rice yield, as well as N, P, and K status, in a 2‐yr field experiment in saline‐alkaline soil in Heilongjiang Province, northeast China. The plants were assigned to the following five treatment groups: no N fertilizer, or conventional, balanced, reduced, and postponed N fertilizer management. Compared with conventional N management practice, balanced and reduced N management practices increased the concentrations of N, P, and K in the leaves, stem‐sheaths, and panicles at full heading (FH) and maturity; however, postponed N management led to the opposite results. Balanced N management increased N, P, and K mobilization to the leaves (from FH to maturity) by 49, 43, and 67%, respectively, resulting in the highest crop yields among all the N management practices studied. Furthermore, rice yield was positively correlated with N, P, and K accumulation and rates of nutrient mobilization to the leaves, stem‐sheaths, and panicles at maturity. The application of 150 or 135 kg N ha−1, and the proportion of 4:3:1:2 in the pre‐transplanting, mid‐tillering, panicle initiation, and panicle differentiation stages, may increase rice yield and facilitate efficient utilization of nutrients in saline‐alkaline soil.
Stakeholder engagement in sustainability reporting: A classification model
Authors: Stocker Fabricio , de Arruda Michelle P. , de Mascena Keysa M. C. , Boaventura João M. G.
Published: April 2020

This study presents analysis criteria used to identify and classify the level of engagement between firms and stakeholders. We analyzed 119 sustainability reports disclosed by companies operating in the energy sector from 40 different countries. Our study adopted the following stakeholder engagement classification levels: information strategy, response strategy, and involvement strategy. The results show that, although strategic involvement actions are at a high quality level, they are the least adopted by the companies studied, which concentrate their engagement actions at the least complex levels. Our contribution is to propose a matrix of engagement strategies as a tool that is formed by nine strategic quadrants, providing clear differentiation between engagement strategies that can be used to improve sustainability reports and to rethink the quality and focus of actions with stakeholders.
Zeolite‐Assisted Lignin‐First Fractionation of Lignocellulose: Overcoming Lignin Recondensation through Shape‐Selective Catalysis
Authors: Subbotina Elena , Velty Alexandra , Samec Joseph S. M. , Corma Avelino
Published: April 2020

Organosolv pulping releases reactive monomers from both lignin and hemicellulose by the cleavage of weak C−O bonds. These monomers recombine to form undesired polymers through the formation of recalcitrant C−C bonds. Different strategies have been developed to prevent this process by stabilizing the reactive monomers (i.e., lignin‐first approaches). To date, all reported approaches rely on the addition of capping agents or metal‐catalyzed stabilization reactions, which usually require high pressures of hydrogen gas. Herein, a metal‐ and additive‐free approach is reported that uses zeolites as acid catalysts to convert the reactive monomers into more stable derivatives under organosolv pulping conditions. Experiments with model lignin compounds showed that the recondensation of aldehydes and allylic alcohols produced by the cleavage of β‐O‐4′ bonds was efficiently inhibited by the use of protonic β zeolite. By applying a zeolite with a preferred pore size, the bimolecular reactions of reactive monomers were effectively inhibited, resulting in stable and valuable monophenolics. The developed methodology was further extended to birch wood to yield monophenolic compounds and value‐added products from carbohydrates.
Exploiting classification for fountain data estimation in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Belabed Fatma , Bouallegue Ridha
Published: April 2020

In order to correct and avoid channel error, fountain codes were the best solution by limiting feedback channels and reducing energy consumption. Multi‐hops transmission is the principal limitation of the deployment and the use of these codes. Indeed, relayed transmission conducts to the generation of useless data, named overflow leading to a waste of energy, the most critical issue, and the big challenge in WSN. In this paper, based on a clustered architecture and estimation, we consider a distributed estimation scheme composing of sensor members and the cluster head. In order to reduce the number of a useless encoded packet generated as well as the impact of the overflow, we determine the optimal minimal number of encoded packets needed for data decoding. Sensor observations are encoded using fountain codes, and then messages are collected at the cluster head where a final estimation is provided within learning method. Then messages are collected at the cluster head where a final estimation is provided with a classification based on Bayes rule. The main goal of this paper is to determine the number of encoded packets by exploiting the classification model for fountain data estimation to minimize the overflow and extend the network lifetime.
Panmixia across elevation in thermally sensitive Andean dung beetles
Authors: Linck Ethan B. , Celi Jorge E. , Sheldon Kimberly S.
Published: April 2020

Janzen's seasonality hypothesis predicts that organisms inhabiting environments with limited climatic variability will evolve a reduced thermal tolerance breadth compared with organisms experiencing greater climatic variability. In turn, narrow tolerance breadth may select against dispersal across strong temperature gradients, such as those found across elevation. This can result in narrow elevational ranges and generate a pattern of isolation by environment or neutral genetic differentiation correlated with environmental variables that are independent of geographic distance. We tested for signatures of isolation by environment across elevation using genome‐wide SNP data from five species of Andean dung beetles (subfamily Scarabaeinae) with well‐characterized, narrow thermal physiologies, and narrow elevational distributions. Contrary to our expectations, we found no evidence of population genetic structure associated with elevation and little signal of isolation by environment. Further, elevational ranges for four of five species appear to be at equilibrium and show no decay of genetic diversity at range limits. Taken together, these results suggest physiological constraints on dispersal may primarily operate outside of a stable realized niche and point to a lower bound on the spatial scale of local adaptation.
Invasive zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) threatens an exceptionally large population of the depressed river mussel (Pseudanodonta complanata) in a postglacial lake
Authors: Ożgo Małgorzata , Urbańska Maria , Hoos Philipp , Imhof Hannes K. , Kirschenstein Małgorzata , Mayr Julia , Michl Florian , Tobiasz Rafał , von Wesendonk Marie , Zimmermann Stefan , Geist Juergen
Published: April 2020

Freshwater mussels are in decline worldwide, with the depressed river mussel Pseudanodonta complanata being one of the rarest and most endangered species in Europe. Invasive mussels are suspected to be an important factor of decline, but there is little information on their interaction with native species.

This study analyzed densities, depth distribution, and individual sizes and weights in one of the largest known populations of P. complanata in Europe in relation to the co‐occurring invasive zebra mussel Dreissena polymorpha and other mussel species, using a systematic transect analysis.

Pseudanodonta complanata was the dominant unionid species in Lake Siecino reaching densities of up to 26 ind/m2, with half of the specimens found at a water depth of 2.0–4.0 m. Densities were highest on sandy substrates in areas of underwater currents. In contrast, 67% of native Unio tumidus were found at depths < 1 m, indicating different habitat preference.

In the study area, 91% of P. complanata, 92% of U. tumidus, and all Anodonta individuals were fouled by D. polymorpha. The dreissenid:unionid mass ratio (mean ± SD; maximum) was 0.43 ± 0.56; 4.22 and 0.86 ± 1.87; 8.76 in P. complanata and U. tumidus, respectively. Pseudanodonta complanata fouled with D. polymorpha were impaired in their anchoring capability and had shell deformations potentially affecting shell closing and filtration activity. Fouling intensity was negatively correlated with unionid density, potentially leading to accelerated population declines.

The observed adverse effects of invasive zebra mussels on the depressed river mussel and the difficulties in eradicating established populations of invasive mussels suggest that D. polymorpha should be considered a serious threat to P. complanata. Therefore, the further spread of zebra mussels into habitats with native unionids needs to be avoided by all means.
Analysis of saturation velocity and energy relaxation time of electrons in Si using full‐band Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Yoshihara Koki , Hiroki Akira
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we have investigated the influence of optical phonon energy on electron saturation velocity and energy relaxation time by using a full band Monte Carlo simulator. The energy band structure is obtained using the first principle calculation. The scattering probability is calculated so as to conserve the energy and momentum in the full band structure. It is found that the range of optical phonon energy from 56.2 to 63.9 meV allows experimental saturation velocity and energy relaxation time. Electron saturation velocity is more sensitive than relaxation time to the optical phonon energy.
Solar ultraviolet‐induced DNA damage response: Melanocytes story in transformation to environmental melanomagenesis
Authors: Sarkar Soumyadeep , Gaddameedhi Shobhan
Published: April 2020

Exposure to sunlight is both beneficial, as it heats the planet to a comfortable temperature, and potentially harmful, since sunlight contains ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which is deemed detrimental for living organisms. Earth's ozone layer plays a vital role in blocking most of the extremely dangerous UVC; however, low frequency/energy UVR (i.e., UVB and UVA) seeps through in minute amount and reaches the Earth's surface. Both UVB and UVA are physiologically responsible for a plethora of skin ailments, including skin cancers. The UVR is readily absorbed by the genomic DNA of skin cells, causing DNA bond distortion and UV‐induced DNA damage. As a defense mechanism, the DNA damage response (DDR) signaling in skin cells activates nucleotide excision repair (NER), which is responsible for the removal of UVR‐induced DNA photolesions and helps maintain the genomic integrity of the cells. Failure of proper NER function leads to mutagenesis and development of skin cancers. One of the deadliest form of skin cancers is melanoma which originates upon the genetic transformation of melanocytes, melanin producing skin cells. NER is a well‐studied DNA repair system in the whole skin, as a tissue, but not much is known about it in melanocytes. Therefore, this review encapsulates NER in melanocytes, with a specific focus on its functional regulators and their cross talks due to skin heterogeneity and divulging the potential knowledge gap in the field.
A context‐aware and intelligent framework for the secure mission critical systems
Authors: Sikandar Usman , Taha Muhammad , Sarwar Sohail , Safyan M. , Qayyum Zia Ul , Ali Amjad , Iqbal Muddesar
Published: April 2020

Recent technological advancements in pervasive systems have shown the potential to address challenges in the military domain. Research developments in military‐based mission‐critical systems have refined a lot as in autopilot, sensing true target behavior, battle damage conditions, acquiring, and manipulating command control information. However, the application of pervasive systems in the military domain is still evolving. In this paper, an intelligent framework has been proposed for mission‐critical systems to incorporate advanced heterogeneous communication protocols; service‐oriented layered structure and context‐aware information manipulation. The proposed framework addresses the limitation of “time‐space” constraints in mission‐critical systems that have been improved significantly. This improvement is courtesy to enhancing situation‐aware tactical capabilities such as localization, decision significance, strategic span, strategic intentions, resource coordination, and profiling concerning the situation. A comprehensive use case model has been presented for a typical battle‐field scenario followed by a comparison of the proposed framework with existing techniques. It is evident from experiments and analyses that the proposed framework provides more effective and seamless interaction with contextual resources to improve tactical capabilities.
Multiphase magmatic overprinting in the Late Jurassic Laoniushan pluton at the SW margin of the North China Craton: Geochronological and petrogenetic constraints
Authors: Yang Chunsi , Chen Huayong , Zhao Liandang , Jiang Hongjun , Wang Dequan , Zheng Hui , Han Jinsheng , Wu Chao , Lai Chunkit
Published: April 2020

Late Mesozoic granitoids are widely emplaced in the Qinling Orogen on the southern margin of North China Craton (NCC), and can provide important clues on the Late Mesozoic regional geodynamic setting. The Late Jurassic Laoniushan granitic pluton is located in the western end of the southern NCC margin. Zircon U–Pb dating for the granodiorite, quartz diorite, and biotite monzogranite of the pluton yielded 152.5 ± 1.6 Ma, 148.7 ± 1.2 Ma, and 149–146 Ma, respectively. Compilation of the single zircon ages revealed magmatic peaks at ca. 146, 152, and 163 Ma, suggesting multiphase Late Jurassic magmatism. These granitoids are high‐K calc‐alkaline, I‐type, and metaluminous to weakly peraluminous. The rocks show chondrite‐normalised LREE enrichments, HREE depletions and flat HREE patterns, together with (slightly) negative Eu, Nb, Ta, P, and Ti anomalies. The Laoniushan granodiorite and biotite monzogranite have similar REE patterns to the quartz diorite, but the former two have much smaller Eu anomalies than the latter. The negative zircon εHf(t) (−32.6 to −13.7), εNd(t) (−20.7 to −14.3) and crustal‐like whole‐rock trace‐elemental ratios (e.g., Nb/Ta, Th/U, Nb/U, and Ce/Pb), together with the low Mg (MgO = 0.18–2.02 wt%, Mg# = 20–34), Cr (7.00–39.0 ppm), and Ni (0.80–4.00 ppm) contents, suggests that the Late Jurassic granitoids were probably derived from the partial melting of ancient crustal rocks with minor mantle‐derived input. The granodiorite and quartz diorite have similar average εHf(t) (−26.5 and −26.7, respectively), εNd(t) (−20.5 and −20.2, respectively), TDM2(Hf) (2880 and 2885 Ma, respectively) and TDM2(Nd; 2607 and 2578 Ma, respectively), whereas the biotite monzogranite has higher average εHf(t) (−17.1) and εNd(t) (−15.3), and younger TDM2(Hf) (2281 Ma) and TDM2(Nd) (2176 Ma). This suggests that the biotite monzogranite has different magma sources and shallower magma formation depths compared to the granodiorite and quartz diorite. The latter two were likely formed by the partial melting of continental crustal rocks (notably the Taihua Group basement rocks), which was triggered by mantle underplating led by asthenospheric upwelling. The Late Jurassic Laoniushan granitoids may have formed in an extensional setting caused by the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate subduction beneath Eastern China. Commencement of Late Jurassic Laoniushan granitic magmatism likely marked the incipient of lithospheric thinning along the southern NCC margin. Considering also the regional geological evolution, we conclude that although the Laoniushan pluton exhibits spatial–temporal relationships with the nearby Mo (–U) and REE deposits, there is still no unambiguous metallogenic link with these deposits.
Adaptive Natural Killer Cell Functional Recovery in Hepatitis C Virus Cured Patients
Authors: Mele Dalila , Oliviero Barbara , Mantovani Stefania , Ludovisi Serena , Lombardi Andrea , Genco Francesca , Gulminetti Roberto , Novati Stefano , Mondelli Mario U. , Varchetta Stefania
Published: April 2020

Background and Aims

Current evidence suggests that dysfunctional natural killer (NK) cell responses during hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can be restored after viral eradication with direct acting antivirals (DAAs). However, the fate of the recently described adaptive NK cell population, endowed with increased ability to mediate antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), during HCV infection is poorly defined, while no study has explored the effects of DAAs on this NK subset.

Approach and Results

We performed multicolor flow cytometry to investigate CD57+ FcεRIγneg adaptive and FcεRIγpos conventional NK cell phenotype and function before and after DAA treatment in 59 patients chronically infected with HCV, 39 with advanced liver fibrosis, and 20 with mild‐moderate liver fibrosis. Moreover, bulk NK cell phenotype and function were analyzed after cytokine activation following contact with K562 target cells. The proportion of FcεRIγneg NK cells in patients with HCV was associated with increased HCV load at baseline, and it was significantly reduced after treatment. Patients with an advanced fibrosis stage displayed increased NK cell activation and exhaustion markers that normalized after therapy. Of note, adaptive NK cells from patients with HCV were characterized by increased programmed death receptor 1 expression and reduced ADCC activity at baseline. DAA treatment restored ADCC ability and reduced programmed death receptor 1 expression.

Conclusions

HCV profoundly affects the frequency, phenotype, and function of adaptive NK cells. DAA therapy restores a normal adaptive NK phenotype and enhances interferon‐gamma production by this cell subset.
Elevated levels of D‐dimer tested by immunoturbidimetry are associated with the extent of severity of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Rodríguez‐Peña Yolima , Ibáñez‐Pinilla Milcíades
Published: April 2020

Objective

To establish the association between increased levels of D‐dimer and severity of pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

A nested, prospective cohort, analytical case–control study was conducted among women with pre‐eclampsia between March 2017 and March 2018. Inclusion criteria were age over 18 years, gestational age of more than 20 weeks, a single pregnancy with a living fetus, and a diagnosis of pre‐eclampsia. D‐dimer was measured by immunoturbidimetry at the time of diagnosis of pre‐eclampsia, applying cut‐off points adjusted for gestational age. Statistical analysis involved unconditional logistic regression for the association of elevated D‐dimer with severe pre‐eclampsia adjusted by confounding variables.

Results

There were 132 patients with pre‐eclampsia, of which 44 were classed as controls and 88 were classed as having severe pre‐eclampsia (case group). Cohort characteristics included: age between 18 and 45 years (mean 28.0 ± 6.3 years); presence of gestational hypertension (10.6%), chronic arterial hypertension (9.0%); and gestational diabetes (5.3%). In the case group, levels of D‐dimer were significantly higher than in controls (19.3% vs 2.3%, odds ratio [OR] 10.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32–80.14, P=0.004) as well as significant in the unconditional logistic regression model adjusted for maternal age, parity, gestational age, and comorbidities (OR 10.02, 95% CI 1.28–78.68, P=0.028).

Conclusion

Elevated levels of D‐dimer and severe pre‐eclampsia are strongly associated, reinforcing evidence that one of the physiopathologic bases of the condition is the activation of fibrinolysis and the coagulation system.
Cervical pessary plus vaginal progesterone versus long‐term tocolysis for the prevention of preterm birth: An observational retrospective study
Authors: Tajima Masaki , Yanazume Shintaro , Orita Yuji , Tazaki Yukiko , Shinya Mitsuhisa , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: April 2020

Objective

To compare cervical pessaries plus vaginal progesterone versus long‐term tocolysis for preventing preterm birth for women with a short cervix.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of women with singleton pregnancy who received cervical pessaries plus vaginal progesterone (combined group) or ritodrine hydrochloride (tocolysis group) for short cervix (≤25 mm at 20–24 weeks, or ≤20 mm at 25–34 weeks) at a general hospital in Kagoshima, Japan, 2015–2019. The primary outcome was rate of preterm birth (<36 weeks); secondary outcomes were maternal hospital admittance and treatment complications.

Results

Data were evaluated from 95 women (combined group, n=43; tocolysis group, n=52). There was no significant difference in cervical length or gestational age at intervention between the groups. Overall, 3/43 (7.0%) women delivered before 36 weeks in the combined group versus 16/52 (30.8%) in the tocolysis group (relative risk, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.41–0.76; P=0.004). Median maternal admittance was shorter in the combined group (6.6 vs 41.0 days, P<0.001). Although 36/43 (83.7%) women in the combined group reported increased vaginal discharge, no major complications occurred.

Conclusion

A combination of pessaries and vaginal progesterone reduced the rate of preterm birth (<36 weeks) for women with short cervix as compared with long‐term tocolysis.
TRANSDISCIPLINARY DEVELOPMENT AND ADOPTION OF IRRIGATION INNOVATIONS IN AFRICA. LINKAGES TO PRINCIPLES OF CAADP: A COMMENTARY
Authors: Phiri E. , Bwalya M. , Froebrich J. , Mweetwa A.M. , Chishala B.H. , Meebelo N. , Shepande C.M. , De Witt M. , De Clercq W.
Published: April 2020

Expanding arable land under irrigation is cardinal in the quest to attain Africa's aspiration of transforming agriculture and realizing its true value and positive impact on wealth creation, economic growth, food security and nutrition for all. Over the last three to four decades, many initiatives have been designed to harness both small‐ and large‐scale irrigation technologies towards increasing agricultural production and productivity. The EAU4Food (European Union and African Union cooperative research to increase food production in irrigated farming systems in Africa) project was a collaborative project under the EU–African Union Scientific Partnership aimed at enabling the successful adoption and upscaling of appropriate irrigation support innovations. The project applied a transdisciplinary approach to design, test and disseminate innovations across the continent. The project was designed to gain better insights vis‐à‐vis how the innovation process can be enhanced, and to share insights for supporting the implementation of national agricultural development programmes and strategies conceived within the context of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) framework. This note highlights linkages between the CAADP framework and the EAU4Food project and suggests some future areas of attention on Africa's agenda for enhanced agricultural production, facilitated under the auspices of CAADP. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TSCH‐over‐LoRA: long range and reliable IPv6 multi‐hop networks for the internet of things
Authors: Haubro Martin , Orfanidis Charalampos , Oikonomou George , Fafoutis Xenofon
Published: April 2020

TSCH‐over‐LoRa is a long range and reliable IPv6 multi‐hop solution that aims at combining the reliability of TSCH (Time‐Slotted, Channel Hopping) together with the long range capabilities of LoRa. TSCH‐over‐LoRa brings mesh IPv6 networking to LoRa devices, enabling the use of standard protocols (such as RPL, UDP, and CoAP) and long range operation to TSCH/6TiSCH industrial wireless IoT networks. We design, implement, and integrate TSCH‐over‐LoRa into the TSCH/6TiSCH networking stack of the Contiki‐NG operating system and experimentally demonstrate its compatibility with higher‐level protocols and its resilience to interference.
Characterization of blood coagulation dynamics and oxygenation in ex‐vivo retinal vessels by fluorescence hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Podlipec Rok , Arsov Zoran , Koklič Tilen , Štrancar Janez
Published: April 2020

Blood coagulation mechanisms forming a blood clot and preventing hemorrhage have been extensively studied in the last decades. Knowing the mechanisms behind becomes very important particularly in the case of blood vessel diseases. Real‐time and accurate diagnostics accompanied by the therapy are particularly needed, for example, in diseases related to retinal vasculature. In our study, we employ for the first time fluorescence hyperspectral imaging (fHSI) combined with the spectral analysis algorithm concept to assess physical as well as functional information of blood coagulation in real‐time. By laser‐induced local disruption of retinal vessels to mimic blood leaking and subsequent coagulation and a proper fitting algorithm, we were able to reveal and quantify the extent of local blood coagulation through direct identification of the change of oxyhemoglobin concentration within few minutes. We confirmed and illuminated the spatio‐temporal evolution of the essential role of erythrocytes in the coagulation cascade as the suppliers of oxygenated hemoglobin. By additional optical tweezers force manipulation, we showed immediate aggregation of erythrocytes at the coagulation site. The presented fluorescence‐based imaging concept could become a valuable tool in various blood coagulation diagnostics as well as theranostic systems if coupled with the laser therapy.
Urine cell‐free DNA as a promising biomarker for early detection of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Ren Sai , Ren Xiao-Dong , Guo Li-Fang , Qu Xue-Mei , Shang Mei-Yun , Dai Xiao-Tian , Huang Qing
Published: April 2020

Background

While blood‐derived cell‐free DNA has been shown to be a candidate biomarker able to provide diagnostic and prognostic insight in cancer patients, little is known regarding the potential application of urine cell‐free DNA (ucfDNA) in diagnosis of cancer. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate ucfDNA concentration and integrity index as potential biomarkers for early detection of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Urine samples were collected from 35 healthy controls and 55 NSCLC patients at various tumor node metastasis (TNM) stages. Two long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE1) fragments (LINE1‐97 and 266 bp) were quantified via quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). DNA integrity index was calculated as the ratio of LINE1‐266/LINE‐97.

Results

LINE1 fragments concentrations of ucfDNA (LINE1‐97, 266 bp) were significantly higher in NSCLC patients with stage III/IV than in stage I/II and in healthy controls. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for discriminating patients with stage III/IV from healthy controls had areas under the curves (AUC) of 0.84 and 0.886, respectively. Moreover, ucfDNA integrity LINE1‐266/97 was significantly higher in patients with stage III/IV than in stage I/II and in healthy controls. The AUC of ROC curve for discriminating patients with stage III/IV from healthy controls was 0.800. Furthermore, LINE1‐266 fragment concentration was significantly higher in lymph node metastasis (LNM)‐positive patients relative to LNM‐negative patients. The ROC curve for discriminating LNM‐positive from LNM‐negative patients had an AUC of 0.822.

Conclusion

UcfDNA could serve as a promising biomarker for early detection of NSCLC.
Eco‐sustainable silk sericin from by‐product of textile industry can be employed for cosmetic, dermatology and drug delivery
Authors: Orlandi Giulia , Faragò Silvio , Menato Silvia , Sorlini Marzio , Butti Fabrizio , Mocchi Michela , Donelli Ilaria , Catenacci Laura , Sorrenti Milena L , Croce Stefania , Segale Lorena , Torre Maria L , Perteghella Sara
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

In the last decade, many researchers demonstrated the biological activities of native Bombyx mori silk sericin (SS), and its use is widespread in the cosmetic and biomedical field. However, SS is a polluting material from the silk fibroin textile industry. This paper aims to demonstrate that the industrial wastewater‐derived SS has many biological properties, and can be used as an eco‐friendly product for cosmetic/pharmaceutical purposes with an important impact on the circular economy.

RESULTS

We focused on the SS derived from an ad hoc extraction process or industrial degumming wastewater. Both products were preserved with three different methods: lyophilization, spray‐drying and sterilization. All SS were characterized in terms of amino acid content, molecular weight, physical–chemical properties, morphology and size distribution; then we evaluated the biological properties, the cytocompatibility/cytoprotective profile, and the immunomodulatory abilities of SS. Free radical scavenging, anti‐tyrosinase, and anti‐elastase activities of waste SS were confirmed. Waste and standard SS were cytocompatible on human fibroblasts; all SS samples inhibited the proliferation of stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Waste SS showed a significant effect on tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 10 release.

CONCLUSIONS

These results pave the way for using textile wastewater‐derived SS to obtain high‐value‐added products for cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical purposes. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Enhanced visible light photocatalysis with E‐waste‐based V2O5/zinc–ferrite: BTEX degradation and mechanism
Authors: Mohan Harshavardhan , Lim Jeong‐Muk , Lee Se‐Won , Jang Jum Suk , Park Yool‐Jin , Seralathan Kamala‐Kannan , Oh Byung‐Taek
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

BTEX removal is attracting increased attention owing to the detrimental impacts caused to human health, the foremost being neurological impairments. Thus, this study intended to assess the efficiency of zinc–ferrite/V2O5 (ZFV) nanocomposite for photocatalytic degradation of BTEX isomers in aqueous solution. Furthermore, the developed catalyst was magnetically separable, which may reduce the ecological impacts of the catalyst.

RESULTS

The ZFV nanocomposite was prepared by a solvothermal process using V2O5 (extracted from treated E‐waste) and zinc–ferrite (synthesized through a chemical co‐precipitation method). The integration of elements in the ZFV nanocomposite was confirmed using powder X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, Raman, diffuse reflectance and electrochemical impedance spectroscopies and scanning electron microscopy. Maximum BTEX degradation of 95% was achieved at 50 mg L−1 initial BTEX concentration, 0.50 g L−1 catalyst and pH 3. A minor decrease in the degradation efficiency (10%) of the catalyst was observed at the fifth cycle. The presence of H2O2 increased the degradation efficiency to 98% owing to the prevention of electron–hole recombination, while NaCl (60%), Na2CO3 (63%), NaNO3 (80%) and Na2SO4 (72%) decreased the degradation efficiency due to their hydroxyl scavenging properties. The degradation pathway was elucidated using gas chromatography with mass spectral studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the present study relating to BTEX degradation using the magnetic ZFV nanocomposite and the degradation mechanism throw light on the environmental applications of the ZFV composite. The composite could be an alternative for the remediation of BTEX‐contaminated wastewaters. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Comprehensive data of 3525 patients newly diagnosed with colorectal liver metastasis between 2013 and 2014: 2nd report of a nationwide survey in Japan
Authors: Sakamoto Katsunori , Honda Goro , Beppu Toru , Kotake Kenjiro , Yamamoto Masakazu , Takahashi Keiichi , Endo Itaru , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Itabashi Michio , Hashiguchi Yojiro , Kotera Yoshihito , Kobayashi Shin , Yamaguchi Tatsuro , Tabuchi Ken , Kobayashi Hirotoshi , Yamaguchi Kensei , Morita Satoshi , Miyazaki Masaru , Sugihara Kenichi
Published: April 2020

Background

To collect large‐scale data for further research to improve treatment outcomes in patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM), the Joint Committee for Nationwide Survey on CRLM was established by the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum and the Japanese society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery. The joint committee was initiated to collect data since 2014 and has already reported data including the prognostic data of 3820 patients newly diagnosed with CRLM between 2005 and 2007.

Methods

The data of patients newly diagnosed with CRLM after 2013 are continuously being registered prospectively, and herein, we report the data of the patients newly diagnosed with CRLM in 2013 and 2014.

Results

The data of 3839 patients newly diagnosed with CRLM in 2013 and 2014 were registered from 156 departments (75%) of 152 institutions among 209 departments (from 201 institutions) that agreed to participate in this database system at its initiation. Finally, 3525 patients were enrolled in this study after a quality management process conducted by the joint committee. We report the comprehensive data obtained from 3525 patients, including clinicopathological findings, treatment strategies, and implementation status of chemotherapy.

Conclusion

The joint committee will provide these raw data while updating prognostic data to researchers who will conduct meaningful studies that meet the aim of the joint committee.
Surgical outcomes of patients with maintained or removed percutaneous cholecystostomy before intended laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Hung Yu‐Liang , Chen Huan‐Wu , Fu Chih‐Yuan , Tsai Chun‐Yi , Chong Sio‐Wai , Wang Shang‐Yu , Hsu Jun‐Te , Yeh Ta‐Sen , Yeh Chun‐Nan , Jan Yi‐Yin
Published: April 2020

Background

Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) followed by definitive cholecystectomy is an alternative treatment for acute cholecystitis (AC). We retrospectively investigated the impact of PC tube removal before definitive cholecystectomy on surgical outcomes.

Methods

From 2012 to 2017, 942 AC patients underwent PC at a single institute. Eligible patients were selected according to inclusion criteria. Demographic data, clinical and laboratory parameters, and treatment outcomes were extracted from medical records. Categorization of patients and subsequent subgroup analysis were based on cholangiography.

Results

The rate of emergent cholecystectomy in the PC tube removal group was higher than that in the PC tube preserved group (OR = 2.969, 95% CI 1.334–6.612, P = 0.008). In subgroup analysis of patients with patent bile flow under cholangiography, the rate of emergent cholecystectomy was higher in the PC tube removal group (OR = 3.173, 95% CI 1.182–8.523, P = 0.022), though the incidence of complications was higher in the PC tube preserved group (P = 0.012). In addition, routine preoperative cholangiography had no clinical impact on surgical outcome.

Conclusion

Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube can be removed before subsequent LC to avoid postoperative complications, though removal of the PC tube is associated with an increased likelihood of emergent cholecystectomy.
C‐reactive protein correlates with computed tomographic findings and predicts severe COVID‐19 early
Authors: Tan Chaochao , Huang Ying , Shi Fengxia , Tan Kui , Ma Qionghui , Chen Yong , Jiang Xixin , Li Xiaosong
Published: April 2020

COVID‐19 has developed into a worldwide pandemic; early identification of severe illness is critical for controlling it and improving the prognosis of patients with limited medical resources. The present study aimed to analyze the characteristics of severe COVID‐19 and identify biomarkers for differential diagnosis and prognosis prediction. In total, 27 consecutive patients with COVID‐19 and 75 patients with flu were retrospectively enrolled. Clinical parameters were collected from electronic medical records. The disease course was divided into four stages: initial, progression, peak, and recovery stages, according to computed tomography (CT) progress. to mild COVID‐19, the lymphocytes in the severe COVID‐19 progressively decreased at the progression and the peak stages, but rebound in the recovery stage. The levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP) in the severe group at the initial and progression stages were higher than those in the mild group. Correlation analysis showed that CRP (R = .62; P < .01), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (R = .55; P < .01) and granulocyte/lymphocyte ratio (R = .49; P < .01) were positively associated with the CT severity scores. In contrast, the number of lymphocytes (R = −.37; P < .01) was negatively correlated with the CT severity scores. The receiver‐operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that area under the curve of CRP on the first visit for predicting severe COVID‐19 was 0.87 (95% CI 0.10–1.00) at 20.42 mg/L cut‐off, with sensitivity and specificity 83% and 91%, respectively. CRP in severe COVID‐19 patients increased significantly at the initial stage, before CT findings. Importantly, CRP, which was associated with disease development, predicted early severe COVID‐19.
Genetic variations in DNA‐repair genes (XRCC1, 3, and 7) and the susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma in a cohort of Egyptians
Authors: Aboul Enein Azza Ahmed , Khaled Iman Abdel Aziz , Khorshied Mervat Mamdooh , Abdel‐Aziz Ashraf Omar , Zahran Nariman , El Saeed Asmaa Mohamed , Shousha Hend Ibrahim , Abdel Rahman Hala Aly
Published: April 2020

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a worldwide etiology of chronic hepatic insult particularly in Egypt. DNA‐repair systems are responsible for maintaining genomic integrity by countering threats posed by DNA lesions. Deficiency in the repair capacity due to genetic alterations in DNA‐repair genes can lead to genomic instability and increased risk of cancer development. The present work aimed at studying the possible association between XRCC1‐G28152A (rs25487), XRCC3‐C18067T (rs861539), and XRCC7‐G6721T (rs7003908) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Egyptian population. The study was conducted on 100 newly diagnosed HCC patients and 100 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. Laboratory workup revealed that all HCC patients have chronic hepatitis C viral infection. Genotyping of the studied SNPs was performed by real‐time PCR. The heteromutant genotype of XRCC1 (GA) conferred an almost two‐fold increased risk of HCC (OR ,  2.35; 95% CI, 1.33‐4.04). Regarding XRCC7, the heteromutant (TG) genotype conferred a two‐fold increased risk of HCC (OR ,  2.17; 95% CI, 1.23‐3.82). Coinheritance of the polymorphic genotypes of XRCC1 and 7 was significantly higher in HCC cases than controls and was associated with an 11‐fold increased risk of HCC (OR , 11.66; 95% CI,  2.77‐49.13). The frequency of XRCC3 polymorphic genotypes in HCC patients was close to that of the controls.
The two‐step task, avoidance, and OCD
Authors: Geramita Matthew A. , Yttri Eric A. , Ahmari Susanne E.
Published: April 2020

In this invited review, we argue for the need to determine whether appetitive and aversive behaviors, be they goal‐directed or habitual, share overlapping neural circuitry. To motivate our argument, we first summarize what is currently known about the neural circuits governing aversive and appetitive behaviors by focusing first on the three hypothesized phases of avoidance learning, and then on goal‐directed and habitual reward seeking. We then provide several reasons to believe that the neural circuits of appetitive and aversive instrumental behaviors are not completely overlapping. We next discuss an experimental strategy to determine the extent of overlap based on a new computational framework that improves the identification of goal‐directed and habitual actions regardless of valence. Finally, we discuss recent work in obsessive‐compulsive disorder that uses this computational framework to determine whether patients perform appetitive and aversive versions of the same task using the same behavioral strategies and neural circuits.
Laser identification of residual microislands of calculus and their removal with chelation
Authors: Harrel Stephen K. , Wilson Thomas G. , Tunnell John C. , Stenberg William V.
Published: April 2020

Background

During videoscope‐assisted minimally invasive surgery which uses a high magnification videoscope to treat periodontal defects, small areas resembling calculus are detected remaining on root surfaces following scaling. These are clinically termed microislands of calculus, which are removed by the use of a chelating agent. This material has not been verified as calculus and the ability of a chelating agent to remove calculus has not been proven. The purpose of this ex vivo study is to verify if the material is calculus and to determine if calculus is removed with a chelating agent.

Methods

Extracted teeth (n = 22) with heavy calculus on root surfaces were selected. A 5‐mm2 area containing calculus was scribed on each root. Digital videoscope images were made of the marked areas using only white light and also with only a 655‐nm diode laser that causes calculus to fluoresce. The marked areas were root planed until no calculus was visible with 3.5× surgical loupes. Digital images were again made. The test area was then burnished with a chelating agent (EDTA) for 30 seconds and images again made. Using the images, the percentage of the marked root surface containing calculus was calculated.

Results

Calculus remained on the roots surfaces after they were judged to be clean using 3.5× loupe magnification. Remaining calculus was reduced after burnishing for 30 seconds with EDTA.

Conclusions

Calculus remains on root surfaces judged to be calculus free using surgical loupes for visualization. Small areas of calculus are reduced or eliminated with a chelating agent.
Fine metal mask material and manufacturing process for high‐resolution active‐matrix organic light‐emitting diode displays
Authors: Kim Chiwoo , Kim Kisoo , Kwon Ohseob , Jung Jaehoon , Park Jong Kab , Kim Doh Hoon , Jung Kiro
Published: April 2020

Manufacturing fine metal mask (FMM) is one of the biggest hurdles to realize the ultra‐high definition (UHD) grade AMOLED displays for smartphone and augmented reality (AR). We have developed the state‐of‐the‐art material and processing technology to achieve 800ppi or higher‐resolution FMMs. The Invar thinning and the thermal damage‐free laser ablation process realized us achieving the FMM for UHD displays.