bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticomplement and antitussive activities of major compound extracted from Chimonanthus nitens Oliv. leaf
Authors: Huang Wenping , Wen Zhiqi , Wang Mengmeng , Xu Bubin , Zhou Bin , Li Xiaojing
Published: November 2019

Chimonanthus nitens Oliv. leaf (CNOL), as a traditional Chinese medicine, has been widely used for the treatment of influenza and colds over a long history. However, the mechanism of colds related to the effects of CNOL have been little studied. In this study, the anticomplement and antitussive activities of different polarity extracts of CNOL were evaluated. Ethyl acetate extract (EAE) among different extracts not only significantly decreased cough times by 21–58% (P < 0.01), but also had anticomplement effects demonstrated by the CH50 values of 0.100 mg/ml. A total of 28 constituents (10 coumarins, 13 flavonoids and five phenolics) were identified in EAE based on the ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry technique. Eight compounds in EAE were evaluated by an ammonia‐induced cough model to reveal the antitussive mechanisms and classical anticomplement pathway. The results indicated that the antitussive effects of scopoletin, kaempferol‐3‐O‐rutinoside and kaempferol may depend on central mechanisms and that flavonoids such as compounds of kaempferol‐3‐O‐rutinoside and kaempferol have better anticomplementary activity than coumarins like compounds of scopolin, scopoletin and isofraxidin. Taken together, kaempferol‐3‐O‐rutinoside and kaempferol could be important chemical markers in the present study that might be used to evaluate the quality and biological activity of CNOL.
A systematic and methodological review of attentional biases in eating disorders: Food, body, and perfectionism
Authors: Ralph‐Nearman Christina , Achee Margaret , Lapidus Rachel , Stewart Jennifer L. , Filik Ruth
Published: November 2019

Objective

The current systematic and methodological review aimed to critically review existing literature utilizing implicit processing, or automatic approach‐ and/or avoidance‐related attentional biases between eating disorder (ED) and nonclinical samples, which (a) highlights how psychophysiological methods advance knowledge of ED implicit bias; (b) explains how findings fit into transdiagnostic versus disorder‐specific ED frameworks; and (c) suggests how research can address perfectionism‐related ED biases.

Method

Three databases were systematically searched to identify studies: PubMed, Scopus, and PsychInfo electronic databases. Peer‐reviewed studies of 18‐ to 39‐year‐olds with both clinical ED and healthy samples assessing visual attentional biases using pictorial and/or linguistic stimuli related to food, body, and/or perfectionism were included.

Results

Forty‐six studies were included. While behavioral results were often similar across ED diagnoses, studies incorporating psychophysiological measures often revealed disease‐specific attentional biases. Specifically, women with bulimia nervosa (BN) tend to approach food and other body types, whereas women with anorexia nervosa (AN) tend to avoid food as well as overweight bodies.

Conclusions

Further integration of psychophysiological and behavioral methods may identify subtle processing variations in ED, which may guide prevention strategies and interventions, and provide important clinical implications. Few implicit bias studies include male participants, investigate binge‐eating disorder, or evaluate perfectionism‐relevant stimuli, despite the fact that perfectionism is implicated in models of ED.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation in acute decompensated aortic stenosis
Authors: Patel Kush , Broyd Chris , Chehab Omar , Jerrum Melanie , Queenan Helen , Bedford Kerry , Barakat Fahed , Kennon Simon , Ozkor Muhiddin , Mathur Anthony , Mullen Michael J
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To assess the safety and efficacy of first‐line transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients presenting with acute decompensated aortic stenosis (ADAS).

Background

ADAS is common and is often treated medically or using balloon aortic valvuloplasty in the first instance. This temporizing measure results in suboptimal outcomes. In the current era, TAVI provides an alternative option.

Methods

Consecutive patients who had either a TAVI for ADAS or electively were included in the study. The primary outcome was procedural and 30‐day mortality and hospital length of stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes included 1‐year mortality and procedural complications.

Results

Of note, 893 patients (mean age 83 ± 7, 50.5% male) underwent TAVI (19% ADAS, 81% elective). ADAS patients were more unwell with worse echocardiographic parameters than elective patients. ADAS patients of 55.9% were known to have significant aortic stenosis prior to their decompensation. Procedural mortality was not different between the ADAS and elective cohorts (1.2 vs. 0.7%; p = .62). The ADAS cohort had a higher 30‐day mortality (5.3 vs. 1.1%; p = .002) and longer LOS (31.9 ± 20.7 days vs. 6.1 ± 6.5 days; p < .001). Multivariate analysis identified acute kidney injury and ADAS as significant predictors of 30‐day mortality.

Conclusions

TAVI for ADAS is safe and effective with procedural outcomes similar to elective patients. However, compared to elective patients, they have worse physiological baseline features, poorer prognosis at 30 days, and longer hospital admissions. Majority of patients who presented with ADAS were known to have AS prior to admission.
Percutaneous occlusion of transseptal puncture‐related free wall perforation at the coronary sinus with a ventricular septal occluder during left atrial appendage closure: A case report
Authors: Bai Yuan , Zhang Sha , Qin Yong‐wen , Zhao Xian‐xian
Published: November 2019

Coronary sinus perforation is a life‐threatening complication of transseptal puncture and needs to be repaired immediately. In this study, we report a case of a 74‐year‐old female patient with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, who is a poor long‐term anticoagulation candidate. During the manipulation of transseptal puncture, a perforation of the free right atrial wall at the coronary sinus ostium occurred, which was caused by the Brockenbrough needle and followed by the immediate advancement of an 8.5‐French transseptal sheath. In consideration of the danger of cardiac tamponade after sheath removal, we decided to leave the 8.5‐French sheath in the pericardial cavity. Then, we advanced a 6 mm ventricular septal occluder through the sheath. Finally, we achieved successful deployment of the device and closure of the perforation under the guidance of fluoroscopy and transthoracic echocardiography. Subsequently, the left atrial appendage orifice was occluded with a 21 mm Watchman device. This case illustrates that percutaneous device closure is feasible for inadvertent perforation of the free right atrial wall at the coronary sinus during transseptal puncture and should be considered as an alternative to surgery.
Novel, vessel anatomy adjusting drug‐coated balloon—Preclinical evaluation in peripheral porcine arteries
Authors: Bienek Stephanie , Kusmierczuk Maciej , Mittag Antje , Bettink Stephanie , Scheller Bruno
Published: November 2019

Background

The diameter of balloons or stents is selected according to the estimated reference vessel diameter and do not adapt to the vessel anatomy. The aim of the present preclinical studies was to investigate a novel, vessel anatomy adjusting hypercompliant drug‐coated balloon catheter (HCDCB).

Methods

Hypercompliant balloon membranes were coated in a constricted state with high drug density. Drug adherence was investigated in vitro, transfer to the porcine peripheral arteries and longitudinal distribution in vivo. In young domestic swine, neointimal proliferation was induced by vessel overstretch and continuous irritation by permanent stents. Uncoated hypercompliant balloons (HCB), and standard uncoated balloons and drug‐coated balloons (DCB) served as controls. Efficacy was assessed by angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and histomorphometry.

Results

HCDCB lost 18.0 ± 3.9% of dose during in vitro simulated delivery to the lesion. Drug transfer to the vessel wall was 13.9 ± 6.4% and drug concentration was 1,044 ± 529 ng/mg tissue. Four weeks after treatment, the histomorphometric neointimal area was smaller with HCDCB versus uncoated HCB (2.39 ± 0.55 mm2 vs. 3.26 ± 0.72 mm2, p = .038) and area stenosis (OCT) was less (11.6 ± 6.9% vs. 24.7 ± 9.7%, p = .022). No premature death occurred and no in‐life clinical symptoms or treatment‐associated thrombi were observed.

Conclusions

HCDCB were found to inhibit excessive neointimal proliferation. Balloon adaption to different vessel diameters and shapes may provide drug‐delivery in irregular lumen and facilitate balloon selection.
Synthesis of xylal‐ and arabinal‐based crown ethers and their application as asymmetric phase transfer catalysts
Authors: Nemcsok Tamás , Rapi Zsolt , Bagi Péter , Keglevich György , Bakó Péter
Published: November 2019

New xylal‐ and arabinal‐based monoaza‐15‐crown‐5 ethers were synthesized starting from l‐ and d‐xylose, and l‐ and d‐arabinose, respectively. These monosaccharide‐based chiral macrocycles were tested as phase transfer catalysts in a few asymmetric reactions. The xylal‐based crown compounds proved to be efficient catalysts in a few liquid‐liquid phase reactions. The epoxidation of trans‐chalcone and the Darzens condensation of α‐chloroacetophenone with benzaldehyde took place with complete diastereoselectivity and up to 77% ee and 58% ee, respectively. It was found that the substituents in the aromatic ring of the chalcone and the α‐chloroacetophenone had an influence on the enantioselectivity. The highest ee values were obtained in the epoxidation of 4‐chlorochalcone (81% ee) and in the reaction of a 2‐naphthyl analogue (96% ee), while in the Darzens condensation of 4‐phenyl‐α‐chloroacetophenone with benzaldehyde, a maximum ee of 91% was detected. The configuration of the monosaccharide unit in the crown ring influenced the absolute configuration of the epoxyketones synthesized.
Structure‐Based Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Imidazo[4,5‐b]Pyridin‐2‐one‐Based p38 MAP Kinase Inhibitors: Part 2
Authors: Kaieda Akira , Takahashi Masashi , Fukuda Hiromi , Okamoto Rei , Morimoto Shinji , Gotoh Masayuki , Miyazaki Takahiro , Hori Yuri , Unno Satoko , Kawamoto Tomohiro , Tanaka Toshimasa , Itono Sachiko , Takagi Terufumi , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Okada Kengo , Lane Weston , Sang Bi‐Ching , Saikatendu Kumar , Matsunaga Shinichiro , Miwatashi Seiji
Published: November 2019

We identified novel potent inhibitors of p38 mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase using a structure‐based design strategy, beginning with lead compound, 3‐(butan‐2‐yl)‐6‐(2,4‐difluoroanilino)‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridin‐2‐one (1). To enhance the inhibitory activity of 1 against production of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in human whole blood (hWB) cell assays, we designed and synthesized hybrid compounds in which the imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridin‐2‐one core was successfully linked with the p‐methylbenzamide fragment. Among the compounds evaluated, 3‐(3‐tert‐butyl‐2‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridin‐6‐yl)‐4‐methyl‐N‐(1‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)benzamide (25) exhibited potent p38 inhibition, superior suppression of TNF‐α production in hWB cells, and also significant in vivo efficacy in a rat model of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA). In this paper, we report the discovery of potent, selective, and orally bioavailable imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridin‐2‐one‐based p38 MAP kinase inhibitors.
Rational Design of Ag‐Based Catalysts for the Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to CO: A Review
Authors: Sun Dalei , Xu Xiaomin , Qin Yanling , Jiang San Ping , Shao Zongping
Published: November 2019

The selective electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) to CO in aqueous electrolytes has gained significant interest in recent years due to its capability to mitigate the environmental issues associated with CO2 emission and to convert renewable energy such as wind and solar power into chemical energy as well as its potential to realize the commercial use of CO2. In view of the thermodynamic stability and kinetic inertness of CO2 molecules, the exploitation of active, selective, and stable catalysts for the ECR to CO is crucial to promote the reaction efficiency. Indeed, plenty of electrocatalysts for the selective ECR to CO have been explored, of which Ag is known as the most promising electrocatalyst for large‐scale ECR to CO due to several competitive advantages including high catalytic performance, low price, and rich reserves compared with other metal counterparts. To provide useful guidelines for the further development of efficient catalysts for the ECR to CO, a comprehensive summary of the recent progress of Ag‐based electrocatalysts is presented in this Review. Different modification strategies of Ag‐based electrocatalysts are highlighted, including exposure of crystal facets, tuning of morphology and size, introduction of support materials, alloying with other metals, and surface modification with functional groups. The reaction mechanisms involved in these different modification strategies of Ag‐based electrocatalysts are also discussed. Finally, the prospects for the development of next‐generation Ag‐based electrocatalysts are proposed in an effort to facilitate the industrialization of ECR to CO.
The interplay of type 2 immunity, helminth infection and the microbiota in regulating metabolism
Authors: Moyat Mati , Coakley Gillian , Harris Nicola L
Published: November 2019

Type 2 immunity has recently emerged as a critical player in metabolic status, with numerous studies investigating the role of type 2 immune cells within adipose tissue. Metabolic dysfunction is often characterised as a low‐grade or chronic inflammatory state within tissues, and type 2 immunity may facilitate a return to metabolic homeostasis. A complex network of type 2 resident cells including M2 macrophages, eosinophils and ILC2s has been identified within adipose tissue. Although the effector cells in this equilibrium have not been clearly identified, any alteration of the type 2 microenvironment resulted in an altered metabolic state. Historically, the type 2 immune response has been associated with helminth infection. The type 2 immune response drives host resistance and plays an important role in promoting tissue repair following the migration of helminth larvae through tissues. Although helminths are largely eradicated in developed countries, infection rates remain high in poor communities within the developing world. Interestingly, there is strong evidence that helminth infection is inversely correlated with autoimmune or inflammatory disorders. Recently, an increasing amount of epidemiological and field studies suggest that it could be the same for obesity and metabolic syndrome. In the current review, we summarise the literature linking type 2 immunity to improved adipose tissue function. We then discuss more recent evidence indicating that helminth infection can provide protection against metabolic syndrome. Lastly, we explore the possible contributions of altered nutrient uptake, adipose tissue function and/or the intestinal microbiota with the ability of helminths to alter metabolic status.
Neuroendocrine carcinoma diagnosis from bile duct cytological specimens: A retrospective single‐center study
Authors: Ishida Mitsuaki , Okano Kimiaki , Sandoh Kaori , Ito Hiroko , Ikeura Tsukasa , Mitsuyama Toshiyuki , Miyoshi Hideaki , Shimatani Masaaki , Takaoka Makoto , Okazaki Kazuichi , Tsuta Koji
Published: November 2019

Neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) in the extrahepatic bile duct is extremely rare and clinically aggressive. Cytological examination of bile and/or bile duct brushing specimens plays an important role in the diagnosis of carcinoma of the extrahepatic bile duct, but only a few articles have described the cytological features of NEC in this area. Thus, we retrospectively analyzed the cytological features of NEC in bile and/or bile duct brushing specimens. Patients with a histopathological diagnosis of NEC who underwent bile and/or bile duct brush cytological examination were enrolled in this study. The cytological features, including the background, arrangement, and shape of the neoplastic cells, and nuclear and cytoplasmic features were reviewed. Six patients with small cell NEC were enrolled, and two of them had pancreatic tumors directly invading the bile duct wall. The cytological specimens showed small and/or large neoplastic cell clusters with occasional single cells in all cases. The neoplastic cells had a high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio and round‐to‐oval nuclei with powdery chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli, and scant cytoplasm. Nuclear molding was a characteristic finding in all cases. One case had an adenocarcinoma component, which was also present in the cytological specimen. Cytological examination of bile and/or bile duct brushing specimens can be useful for the diagnosis of small cell NEC. This is an extremely rare but aggressive carcinoma, and its diagnosis by identifying characteristic cytological features may facilitate early detection and treatment.
Divergent selection and drift shape the genomes of two avian sister species spanning a saline–freshwater ecotone
Authors: Walsh Jennifer , Clucas Gemma V. , MacManes Matthew D. , Thomas W. Kelley , Kovach Adrienne I.
Published: November 2019

The role of species divergence due to ecologically based divergent selection—or ecological speciation—in generating and maintaining biodiversity is a central question in evolutionary biology. Comparison of the genomes of phylogenetically related taxa spanning a selective habitat gradient enables discovery of divergent signatures of selection and thereby provides valuable insight into the role of divergent ecological selection in speciation. Tidal marsh ecosystems provide tractable opportunities for studying organisms' adaptations to selective pressures that underlie ecological divergence. Sharp environmental gradients across the saline–freshwater ecotone within tidal marshes present extreme adaptive challenges to terrestrial vertebrates. Here, we sequence 20 whole genomes of two avian sister species endemic to tidal marshes—the saltmarsh sparrow (Ammospiza caudacutus) and Nelson's sparrow (A. nelsoni)—to evaluate the influence of selective and demographic processes in shaping genome‐wide patterns of divergence. Genome‐wide divergence between these two recently diverged sister species was notably high (genome‐wide FST = 0.32). Against a background of high genome‐wide divergence, regions of elevated divergence were widespread throughout the genome, as opposed to focused within islands of differentiation. These patterns may be the result of genetic drift resulting from past tidal march colonization events in conjunction with divergent selection to different environments. We identified several candidate genes that exhibited elevated divergence between saltmarsh and Nelson's sparrows, including genes linked to osmotic regulation, circadian rhythm, and plumage melanism—all putative candidates linked to adaptation to tidal marsh environments. These findings provide new insights into the roles of divergent selection and genetic drift in generating and maintaining biodiversity.
Myocardial dysfunction in long‐term breast cancer survivors treated at ages 40–50 years
Authors: Jacobse Judy N. , Steggink Lars C. , Sonke Gabe S. , Schaapveld Michael , Hummel Yoran M. , Steenbruggen Tessa G. , Lefrandt Joop D. , Nuver Janine , Crijns Anne P.G. , Aleman Berthe M.P. , van der Meer Peter , Gietema Jourik A. , van Leeuwen Flora E.
Published: November 2019

Aims

Anthracyclines increase heart failure (HF) risk, but the long‐term prevalence of myocardial dysfunction in young breast cancer (BC) survivors is unknown. Early measures of left ventricular myocardial dysfunction are needed to identify BC patients at risk of symptomatic HF.

Methods and results

Within an established cohort, we studied markers for myocardial dysfunction among 569 women, who were 5–7 years (n = 277) or 10–12 years (n = 292) after BC treatment at ages 40–50 years. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were assessed by echocardiography. N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) was measured in serum. Associations between patient‐related and treatment‐related risk factors and myocardial dysfunction were evaluated using linear and logistic regression. Median ages at BC diagnosis and cardiac assessment were 46.7 and 55.5 years, respectively. Anthracycline‐treated patients (n = 313), compared to the no‐anthracycline group (n = 256), more often had decreased LVEF (10% vs. 4%), impaired GLS (34% vs. 27%) and elevated NT‐proBNP (23% vs. 8%). GLS and LVEF declined in a linear fashion with increasing cumulative anthracycline dose (GLS: +0.23 and LVEF: −0.40 per cycle of 60 mg/m2; P < 0.001) and GLS was worse for patients with left breast irradiation. The risk of NT‐proBNP >125 ng/L was highest for patients who received 241–300 mg/m2 anthracycline dose compared to the no‐anthracycline group (odds ratio: 3.30, 95% confidence interval: 1.83–5.96).

Conclusion

Impaired GLS and increased NT‐proBNP levels are present in a substantial proportion of young BC survivors treated with anthracyclines. Whether this will lead to future cardiac disease needs to be evaluated by longitudinal assessment.
Intramolecular [2+2] Cycloaddition of N‐Allylcinnamamines and N‐Allylcinnamamides by Visible‐Light Photocatalysis
Authors: Oderinde Martins S. , Kempson James , Smith Daniel , Meanwell Nicholas A. , Mao Edna , Pawluczyk Joseph , Vetrichelvan Muthalagu , Pitchai Manivel , Karmakar Ananta , Rampulla Richard , Li Jianqing , Murali Dhar T. G. , Mathur Arvind
Published: November 2019

The visible light‐promoted intramolecular [2+2] cycloaddition of N‐allylcinnamamines and N‐allylcinnamamides in the presence of catalytic amounts of [Ir{dF(CF3)ppy}2(dtbpy)]PF6 is reported. Low energy visible light and a high triplet energy iridium‐photosensitizer were efficient at promoting the cycloaddition reaction of N‐allylcinnamamides and N‐allylcinnamamines to the corresponding aryl‐3‐azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanones and aryl‐3‐azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes, respectively, with high diastereoselectivity and under mild conditions. Azabicyclic fused rings have been employed as surrogates for piperidine motifs in drug discovery. Functional groups useful for deployment and/or elaboration in drug discovery campaigns were all shown to be tolerated, including halides, CF3, cyanide, ester, acetamide, acetate, CH3O, pyridyl, furan, carbamate, tosyl, benzyl, and benzoate.
In situ creep tests on the long‐term shear behaviors of a fault located at the dam foundation of Dagangshan hydropower station, China
Authors: Yang Wendong , Duan Kang , Zhang Qiangyong , Jiao Yuyong , Wang Shugang
Published: November 2019

Faults in the rock mass of dam foundation are crucial in controlling dam deformation and stability. In particular, long‐term stability of dam foundation is an important factor for the safety of dam operations. The rock in the foundation of Dagangshan hydropower station is mostly granite, and there are many diabase dikes distributed in granite. Geological survey indicates that many faults exist along the interfaces between granite and diabase. Lots of diabase were metamorphosed to chlorites, which have very low strength. In order to investigate the deformation of faults in diabase dikes under long‐term loading, in situ shear creep tests were performed to estimate the creep performance of a fault. The shear creep displacement and the influence of displacement history of the specimen during multi‐level loading tests were measured and analyzed. The isochronous stress‐strain method was used to determine the long‐term strength of the fault in shear creep tests. Considering the instantaneous damage and strain softening, a new viscoelastic‐plastic softening creep model was proposed to describe the shear creep behavior of the fault. Comparisons confirmed that this creep model is capable of describing the shear creep behavior of the fault and the creep parameters were estimated accordingly using this model.
Circulation and fine‐sediment dynamics in the Amazon Macrotidal Mangrove Coast
Authors: Schettini Carlos A.F. , Asp Nils E. , Ogston Andrea S. , Gomes Vando J.C. , McLachlan Robin L. , Fernandes Marcus E.B. , Nittrouer Charles A. , Truccolo Eliane C. , Gardunho Danilo C.L.
Published: November 2019

The Amazon Macrotidal Mangrove Coast (AMMC) is a large (~7500 km2) contiguous mangrove fringe eastwards from the Amazon River mouth. It encompasses dozens of interconnected bays intercalated with mangrove peninsulas. Mud accumulates on the mangrove flats, whereas the bed of the bays and channels is generally sandy. In this study we investigated the circulation, sediment transport and deposition in a central site at one of these mangrove peninsulas. The study was undertaken during the dry period, when there is no influence of the Amazon River plume and minimum local freshwater inflow. Current and suspended‐sediment concentration were monitored in a feeder channel on the mangrove flat along a ~1000 m section oriented along the peninsula axis. Sediment deposition was also measured on the flat. Our results show there was a strong exchange between the neighboring bays. Channel currents were flood dominant, reaching up to >1 m s−1, with residual water and sediment transport westwards. Suspended sediment concentration (SSC) in the channel was directly related to velocity magnitude, ranging between 50 and 350 mg L−1. The flat was flooded in a way that indicated the tidal wave evolves westwards, nearly parallel to the AMMC shoreline. Currents on the flats were much slower than those in the channel and showed slight ebb dominance. However, SSC was higher during the flood than ebb, clearly indicating settling during the current deceleration and limited erosion during the following ebb–flow acceleration. The net sediment transport across the section was 60 tons westwards for the period of the experiment (~4 days). The mean deposition rate was 0.006 kg m−2 s−1 (or 1.4 kg m−2 per tide), which was higher than rates from other reported assessments in mangroves. The set of results indicate very large internal sediment reworking in the AMMC. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A modified SPH method to model the coalescence of colliding non‐Newtonian liquid droplets
Authors: Xu Xiaoyang , Tang Tingting , Yu Peng
Published: November 2019

This paper develops a modified smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method to model the coalescence of colliding non‐Newtonian liquid droplets. In the present SPH, a van der Waals (vdW) equation of state is particularly used to represent the gas‐to‐liquid phase transition similar to that of a real fluid. To remove the unphysical behavior of the particle clustering, also known as tensile instability, an optimized particle shifting technique is implemented in the simulations. To validate the numerical method, the formation of a Newtonian vdW droplet is first tested, and it clearly demonstrates that the tensile instability can be effectively removed. The method is then extended to simulate the head‐on binary collision of vdW liquid droplets. Both Newtonian and non‐Newtonian fluid flows are considered. The effect of Reynolds number on the coalescence process of droplets is analyzed. It is observed that the time up to the completion of the first oscillation period does not always increase as the Reynolds number increases. Results for the off‐center binary collision of non‐Newtonian vdW liquid droplets are lastly presented. All the results enrich the simulations of the droplet dynamics and deepen understandings of flow physics. Also, the present SPH is able to model the coalescence of colliding non‐Newtonian liquid droplets without tensile instability.
Sublamina‐specific organization of the blood brain barrier in the mouse olfactory nerve layer
Authors: Beiersdorfer Antonia , Wolburg Hartwig , Grawe Janine , Scheller Anja , Kirchhoff Frank , Lohr Christian
Published: November 2019

Astrocytes constitute the main glial component of the mammalian blood brain barrier (BBB). However, in the olfactory bulb (OB), the olfactory nerve layer (ONL) is almost devoid of astrocytes, raising the question which glial cells are part of the BBB. We used mice expressing EGFP in astrocytes and tdTomato in olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), a specialized type of glial cells in the ONL, to unequivocally identify both glial cell types and investigate their contribution to the BBB in the olfactory bulb. OECs were located exclusively in the ONL, while somata of astrocytes were located in deeper layers and extended processes in the inner sublamina of the ONL. These processes surrounded blood vessels and contained aquaporin‐4, an astrocytic protein enriched at the BBB. In the outer sublamina of the ONL, in contrast, blood vessels were surrounded by aquaporin‐4‐negative processes of OECs. Transcardial perfusion of blood vessels with lanthanum and subsequent visualization by electron microscopy showed that blood vessels enwrapped by OECs possessed intact tight junctions. In acute olfactory bulb preparations, injection of fluorescent glucose 6‐NBDG into blood vessels resulted in labeling of OECs, indicating glucose transport from the perivascular space into OECs. In addition, Ca2+ transients in OECs in the outer sublamina evoked vasoconstriction, whereas Ca2+ signaling in OECs of the inner sublamina had no effect on adjacent blood vessels. Our results demonstrate that the BBB in the inner sublamina of the ONL contains astrocytes, while in the outer ONL OECs are part of the BBB.
Bound and mobile soil water isotope ratios are affected by soil texture and mineralogy, whereas extraction method influences their measurement
Authors: Adams Rachel E. , Hyodo Ayumi , SantaMaria Toby , Wright Cynthia L. , Boutton Thomas W. , West Jason B.
Published: November 2019

Questions persist about interpreting isotope ratios of bound and mobile soil water pools, particularly relative to clay content and extraction conditions. Interactions between pools and resulting extracted water isotope composition are presumably related to soil texture, yet few studies have manipulated the bound pool to understand its influence on soil water processes. Using a series of drying and spiking experiments, we effectively labelled bound and mobile water pools in soils with varying clay content. Soils were first vacuum dried to remove residual water, which was then replaced with heavy isotope‐enriched water prior to oven drying and spiking with heavy isotope‐depleted water. Water was extracted via centrifugation or cryogenic vacuum distillation (at four temperatures) and analysed for oxygen and hydrogen isotope ratios via isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Water from centrifuged samples fell along a mixing line between the two added waters but was more enriched in heavy isotopes than the depleted label, demonstrating that despite oven drying, a residual pool remains and mixes with the mobile water. Soils with higher clay + silt content appeared to have a larger bound pool. Water from vacuum distillation samples have a significant temperature effect, with high temperature extractions yielding progressively more heavy isotope‐enriched values, suggesting that Rayleigh fractionation occurred at low temperatures in the vacuum line. By distinctly labelling bound and mobile soil water pools, we detected interactions between the two that were dependent on soil texture. Although neither extraction method appeared to completely extract the combined bound and mobile (total water) pool, centrifugation and high temperature cryogenic vacuum distillations were comparable for both δ2H and δ18O of soil water isotope ratios.
Characterization of complex groundwater flows in the environment of singular buildings by combining hydrogeological and non‐destructive geophysical (ground‐penetrating radar) techniques: Punta Begoña Galleries (Getxo, Spain)
Authors: Uriarte Jesus A. , Damas Mollá Laura , Sagarna Maialen , Aranburu Arantza , García Francisco , Antigüedad Iñaki , Morales Tomás
Published: November 2019

Locating and quantifying groundwater flow in many built‐up areas are a priority with regard to its complete restoration. In this work, a hydrogeological survey of the surroundings of the Punta Begoña Galleries (Getxo, Bizkaia), built on a coastal cliff, was completed by using ground penetrating radar (GPR) testing. Thus, the preliminary characterization of soils and rocks in accessible areas of the cliff was first improved by hydrogeological information gathered from a single survey borehole, including permeability measurements by low pressure injection tests (LPTs) and continuous water level monitoring. As a complementary method, the non‐destructive GPR technique was performed during both dry and wet hydrological periods and in tandem with the injection tests, providing more complete spatial and temporal images of water flows. Specifically, GPR allows mapping of flow paths in soils and assessing the continuity of fractures in rock masses. Altogether, this complementary approach provides greater knowledge of complex underground flow dynamics in built environments, thus making it easier to make decisions for their management.
Transcriptome‐wide association study reveals candidate causal genes for lung cancer
Authors: Bossé Yohan , Li Zhonglin , Xia Jun , Manem Venkata , Carreras‐Torres Robert , Gabriel Aurélie , Gaudreault Nathalie , Albanes Demetrius , Aldrich Melinda C. , Andrew Angeline , Arnold Susanne , Bickeböller Heike , Bojesen Stig E. , Brennan Paul , Brunnstrom Hans , Caporaso Neil , Chen Chu , Christiani David C. , Field John K. , Goodman Gary , Grankvist Kjell , Houlston Richard , Johansson Mattias , Johansson Mikael , Kiemeney Lambertus A. , Lam Stephen , Landi Maria T. , Lazarus Philip , Le Marchand Loic , Liu Geoffrey , Melander Olle , Rennert Gadi , Risch Angela , Rosenberg Susan M. , Schabath Matthew B. , Shete Sanjay , Song Zhuoyi , Stevens Victoria L. , Tardon Adonina , Wichmann H‐Erich , Woll Penella , Zienolddiny Shan , Obeidat Ma'en , Timens Wim , Hung Rayjean J. , Joubert Philippe , Amos Christopher I. , McKay James D.
Published: November 2019

We have recently completed the largest GWAS on lung cancer including 29,266 cases and 56,450 controls of European descent. The goal of our study has been to integrate the complete GWAS results with a large‐scale expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) mapping study in human lung tissues (n = 1,038) to identify candidate causal genes for lung cancer. We performed transcriptome‐wide association study (TWAS) for lung cancer overall, by histology (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and small cell lung cancer) and smoking subgroups (never‐ and ever‐smokers). We performed replication analysis using lung data from the Genotype‐Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. DNA damage assays were performed in human lung fibroblasts for selected TWAS genes. As expected, the main TWAS signal for all histological subtypes and ever‐smokers was on chromosome 15q25. The gene most strongly associated with lung cancer at this locus using the TWAS approach was IREB2 (pTWAS = 1.09E−99), where lower predicted expression increased lung cancer risk. A new lung adenocarcinoma susceptibility locus was revealed on 9p13.3 and associated with higher predicted expression of AQP3 (pTWAS = 3.72E−6). Among the 45 previously described lung cancer GWAS loci, we mapped candidate target gene for 17 of them. The association AQP3‐adenocarcinoma on 9p13.3 was replicated using GTEx (pTWAS = 6.55E−5). Consistent with the effect of risk alleles on gene expression levels, IREB2 knockdown and AQP3 overproduction promote endogenous DNA damage. These findings indicate genes whose expression in lung tissue directly influences lung cancer risk.
Evaluation of small dense low‐density lipoprotein concentration for predicting the risk of acute coronary syndrome in Chinese population
Authors: Wu Bin , Yu Zhiwu , Tong Tong , Tong Xinxin , Yang Yinmei , Tang Yongcai , Ren Huiming , Liao Yike , Liao Jun
Published: November 2019

Background

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is the leading cause of death in developing and developed countries, yet assessing the risk of its development remains challenging. Several lines of evidence indicate that small, dense low‐density lipoproteins (sd‐LDL) are associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. We aim to evaluate sd‐LDL concentration for predicting the risk of ACS in Chinese population.

Methods

Baseline characteristics of 121 patients with ACS and 172 healthy controls were obtained. Plasma sd‐LDL‐C was measured using homogeneous assay, and the proportion of sd‐LDL‐C in LDL‐C was detected.

Results

There was gender and age effect on the sd‐LDL‐C concentration and sd‐LDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio among healthy subjects. Elevated sd‐LDL‐C concentrations and sd‐LDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio were observed in ACS patients with unstable angina pectoris (UAP), non–ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) compared with healthy controls (P < .05); however, there were no differences among ACS groups. According to Pearson's correlation coefficient analyses, sd‐LDL‐C concentration and sd‐LDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio were positively correlated with triglyceride (TG) and LDL‐C concentrations (P < .05) and negatively correlated with high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) concentration (P < .05). Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the cutoff values of sd‐LDL‐C and sd‐LDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio for the prediction of ACS were 1.06 mmol/L and 34.55%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the sd‐LDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio, but not sd‐LDL‐C concentration, was significantly associated with ACS events [OR (95% CI): 1.24, 1.11‐1.38, P < .001].

Conclusions

The sd‐LDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio may be associated with an increased risk of developing ACS in Chinese population.
An update on potentials and promises of T cell co‐signaling molecules in transplantation
Authors: Mardomi Alireza , Mohammadi Nabiallah , Khosroshahi Hamid Tayebi , Abediankenari Saeid
Published: November 2019

The promising outcomes of immune‐checkpoint based immunotherapies in cancer have provided a proportional perspective ahead of exploiting similar approaches in allotransplantation. Belatacept (CTLA‐4‐Ig) is an example of costimulation blockers successfully exploited in renal transplantation. Due to the wide range of regulatory molecules characterized in the past decades, some of these molecules might be candidates as immunomodulators in the case of tolerance induction in transplantation. Although there are numerous attempts on the apprehension of the effects of co‐signaling molecules on immune response, the necessity for a better understanding is evident. By increasing the knowledge on the biology of co‐signaling pathways, some pitfalls are recognized and improved approaches are proposed. The blockage of CD80/CD28 axis is an instance of evolution toward more efficacy. It is now evident that anti‐CD28 antibodies are more effective than CD80 blockers in animal models of transplantation. Other co‐signaling axes such as PD‐1/PD‐L1, CD40/CD154, 2B4/CD48, and others discussed in the present review are examples of critical immunomodulatory molecules in allogeneic transplantation. We review here the outcomes of recent experiences with co‐signaling molecules in preclinical studies of solid organ transplantation.
mTORC1 signalling is not essential for the maintenance of muscle mass and function in adult sedentary mice
Authors: Ham Alexander S. , Chojnowska Kathrin , Tintignac Lionel A. , Lin Shuo , Schmidt Alexander , Ham Daniel J. , Sinnreich Michael , Rüegg Markus A.
Published: November 2019

Background

The balance between protein synthesis and degradation (proteostasis) is a determining factor for muscle size and function. Signalling via the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) regulates proteostasis in skeletal muscle by affecting protein synthesis and autophagosomal protein degradation. Indeed, genetic inactivation of mTORC1 in developing and growing muscle causes atrophy resulting in a lethal myopathy. However, systemic dampening of mTORC1 signalling by its allosteric inhibitor rapamycin is beneficial at the organismal level and increases lifespan. Whether the beneficial effect of rapamycin comes at the expense of muscle mass and function is yet to be established.

Methods

We conditionally ablated the gene coding for the mTORC1‐essential component raptor in muscle fibres of adult mice [inducible raptor muscle‐specific knockout (iRAmKO)]. We performed detailed phenotypic and biochemical analyses of iRAmKO mice and compared them with muscle‐specific raptor knockout (RAmKO) mice, which lack raptor in developing muscle fibres. We also used polysome profiling and proteomics to assess protein translation and associated signalling in skeletal muscle of iRAmKO mice.

Results

Analysis at different time points reveal that, as in RAmKO mice, the proportion of oxidative fibres decreases, but slow‐type fibres increase in iRAmKO mice. Nevertheless, no significant decrease in body and muscle mass or muscle fibre area was detected up to 5 months post‐raptor depletion. Similarly, ex vivo muscle force was not significantly reduced in iRAmKO mice. Despite stable muscle size and function, inducible raptor depletion significantly reduced the expression of key components of the translation machinery and overall translation rates.

Conclusions

Raptor depletion and hence complete inhibition of mTORC1 signalling in fully grown muscle leads to metabolic and morphological changes without inducing muscle atrophy even after 5 months. Together, our data indicate that maintenance of muscle size does not require mTORC1 signalling, suggesting that rapamycin treatment is unlikely to negatively affect muscle mass and function.
Mathematical modeling of CO2 absorption with ionic liquids in a membrane contactor, study of absorption kinetics and influence of temperature
Authors: Qazi Sohaib , Gómez‐Coma Lucía , Albo Jonathan , Druon‐Bocquet Stéphanie , Irabien Angel , Younas Mohammad , Sanchez‐Marcano José
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

This work presents a comprehensive study of carbon dioxide (CO2) capture from CO2/N2 mixtures in a hollow fiber membrane contactor (HFMC). The absorbents considered were three different ionic liquids (ILs): 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate ([emim][OAc]), 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ethylsulfate ([emim][EtSO4]) and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium methyl sulfate ([emim][MeSO4]). A comprehensive two‐dimensional (2D) mathematical model for the transport of CO2 was developed and solved for steady‐state and pseudo steady‐state modes. For pseudo steady‐state mode, the 2D model was linked with a dynamic model applied on a tank from which the IL was recirculated into the shell side of the HFMC.

RESULTS

The model showed excellent agreement between the simulations and experimental data within the range of 2 to 5% standard deviation. Initially, overall mass transfer coefficients of 7.6 × 10−6 (m s−1), 1.6 × 10−6 (m s−1) and 3.7 × 10−6 (m s−1) were obtained for [emim][OAc], [emim][EtSO4] and [emim][MeSO4], respectively. Solubility, diffusivity and absorption efficiency of CO2 in ILs showed strong dependence on the temperature. Furthermore, concentration drop in the wetted portion of the membrane, effect of porosity, tortuosity, gas and absorbent flow rates were systematically studied.

CONCLUSION

Findings of both experimental and modeling work suggests that in spite of the difference of extraction efficiency, these ILs are potential absorbents for CO2 in membrane contactors. Moreover, the modeling approach was found very effective to predict the absorption behavior of CO2 in ILs and to study the wetting phenomena and parametric effects. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Characteristics of nitrous oxide production under salt stress: a model study
Authors: Dai Wei , Zhao Jianqiang , Bin Nasry Allama Al Naim , Liu Wei , Laoyongxay Huexay
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

A large amount of N2O is often generated in the high‐salt wastewater nitrogen removal process, which is unfavorable to the environment, so it is necessary to build a model to describe the N2O production characteristics in high‐salt environment.

RESULTS

This work merges three nitrous oxide (N2O) production pathways, namely ammonium‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB) denitrification, incomplete hydroxylamine (NH2OH) oxidation and heterotrophic denitrification, into a multispecies activated sludge model to describe N2O production under salt stress for the first time. The heterotrophic denitrification pathway was divided into two parts, namely denitrification on intracellular polymers and denitrification on endogenous respiration, and high‐salt inhibition terms were added to the intracellular polymer expressions on the heterotrophic denitrification pathway. The developed model was calibrated by a cycle running experimental case and validated by three single experimental cases, then assessed by two different sets of experimental data. The results indicated that the model reproduced experimentally measured data from six cases perfectly. The modeling results showed that the heterotrophic denitrification pathway (70.04–81.52%) played a significant role in N2O production, while smaller amounts of N2O were generated by the AOB denitrification pathway (14.53–23.93%) and incomplete NH2OH oxidation pathway (3.54–7.75%).

CONCLUSION

Denitrification on endogenous respiration will produce a small amount of N2O with an initial carbon source; when there is no initial carbon source, it will be dominant. Owing to the competitive effects of heterotrophic denitrifying bacterial nitrogen reductase on electron donors, N2O conversion (ratio of N2O production to total nitrogen removal) will increase with decreasing carbon source. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Is water‐soluble contrast enema examination for integrity of rectal anastomosis necessary prior to ileostomy reversal?
Authors: Goh Hui Lu , Hawkins Lauren , Kamarajah Sivesh K , Karandikar Sharad , Goldstein Mark
Published: November 2019

Background and Aim

Routine use of water‐soluble contrast enema (WSCE) to assess anastomotic integrity is debated. This study aimed to evaluate the role of WSCE to assess anastomotic integrity following anterior resections (AR) with defunctioning stoma prior to reversal and identify factors to limit its selective use.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated all WSCE performed over a 7‐year period at a high‐volume colorectal unit. Risk factors for radiological abnormality/leak, including malignancy, chemoradiotherapy, and immediate postoperative complications, were recorded. A gastrointestinal specialist radiologist and surgeon validated all WSCEs reported as abnormal.

Results

Of the 486 WSCE studies identified, 92 were excluded (repeat studies (n = 51), pediatric cases [n = 2], no AR [n = 39]). A total of 394 WSCE studies were evaluated (260 cancer; 134 noncancer patients); 14% (37/260) of cancer patients and 8% (10/134) of noncancer patients had abnormal studies (P = 0.072). Of the 37 abnormal studies in cancer patients, 73% (27/37) radiological leaks were found, and 41% (n = 11/27) of these patients had postoperative complications. Of the 10 abnormal studies in noncancer patients, 20% (2/10) radiological leaks were found, but none of these patients had postoperative complications. Overall leak rates were 7% (29/394), and rates were significantly higher in cancer patients than noncancer patients (10 vs 2%, P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Routine use of WSCE may not be necessary prior to reversal. WSCE should be selectively used in event of postoperative leak or complications. Noncancer resections are less likely demonstrate a leak.