bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Transplantation of Eyelid Adipose‐Derived Stem Cells for Antifibrotic Treatment
Authors: Fang Zhi , Chen Hui , Teng Wenqi , Qiu Peijin , Yu Xiaoning , Luo Chenqi , Zhu Yanan , You Yongsheng , Fu Qiuli , Ji Junfeng , Wang Ben , Yao Ke
Published: February 2020

Fibrosis is a result of the pathological wound‐healing response initiated by immune cells and leads to permanent scarring, such as corneal scarring, which impairs the vision of millions of people worldwide. However, there is currently no available treatment strategy that specifically targets the pathogenesis of fibrosis and can be translated in a safe and versatile way. Herein, it is illustrated that systemic transplantation of easily accessible human eyelid adipose‐derived stem cells (heADSCs) can successfully and safely exert antifibrotic effects in both corneal and skin scarring cases. Intravenous injection of heADSCs alleviates scar formation after rat corneal lamellar injury with accelerated epithelization, increases tumor necrosis factor‐stimulated gene‐6 (TSG‐6) in the epithelium, and decreases inflammatory factors. Cell tracing shows the presence of detectable signals until the 7th day, while no pulmonary embolism or other discomfort occurs. heADSCs effectively reduce corneal scarring by ameliorating stromal inflammation by increasing endogenous tissue‐protective TSG‐6 in the epithelium and macrophage phenotype switching, which is more effective with systemic transplantation than subconjunctival transplantation. Systemic transplantation of heADSCs shows safe antifibrotic effects in both corneal and skin scarring cases and this result identifies systemic transplantation with autologous adipose‐derived stem cells as a generally versatile and safe therapy for antifibrotic treatment.
The Role of Cation Vacancies in Electrode Materials for Enhanced Electrochemical Energy Storage: Synthesis, Advanced Characterization, and Fundamentals
Authors: Gao Peng , Chen Zhen , Gong Yuxuan , Zhang Rui , Liu Hui , Tang Pei , Chen Xiaohua , Passerini Stefano , Liu Jilei
Published: February 2020

The incorporation of atomic scale defects, such as cation vacancies, in electrode materials is considered an effective strategy to improve their electrochemical energy storage performance. In fact, cation vacancies can effectively modulate the electronic properties of host materials, thus promoting charge transfer and redox reaction kinetics. Such defects can also serve as extra host sites for inserted proton or alkali cations, facilitating the ion diffusion upon electrochemical cycling. Altogether, these features may contribute to improved electrochemical performance. In this review, the latest progress in cation vacancies‐based electrochemical energy storage materials, covering the synthetic approaches to incorporate cation vacancies and the advanced techniques to characterize such vacancies and identify their fundamental role, are provided from the chemical and materials point of view. The key challenges and future opportunities for cation vacancies‐based electrochemical energy storage materials are also discussed, particularly focusing on cation‐deficient transition metal oxides (TMOs), but also including newly emerging materials such as transition metal carbides (MXenes).
Are social media reports useful for assessing small ape occurrence? A pilot study from Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Rameli Nurul I. A. , Lappan Susan , Bartlett Thad Q. , Ahmad Siti K. , Ruppert Nadine
Published: February 2020

Citizen science‐based research has been used effectively to estimate animal abundance and breeding patterns, to monitor animal movement, and for biodiversity conservation and education. Here, we evaluate the feasibility of using social media observations to assess the distribution of small apes in Peninsular Malaysia. We searched for reports of small ape observations in Peninsular Malaysia on social media (e.g., blogs, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, iNaturalist, etc.), and also used online, radio, print messaging, and word of mouth to invite citizen scientists such as birders, amateur naturalists, hikers, and other members of the public to provide information about small ape observations made during their activities. These reports provided new information about the occurrence of all three species of small apes (Hylobates agilis,Hylobates lar, andSymphalangus syndactylus) in Peninsular Malaysia. Social media users reported observations of small apes in almost every state. Despite the fact that small apes are believed to occur primarily in the interior of large forested areas, most observations were from fairly small (<100 km2) forests near areas of high traffic and high human population (roads and urban areas). This suggests that most outdoor enthusiasts primarily visit well‐traveled and easily accessible areas, which results in biased sampling if only incidental observations reported on social media are used. A more targeted approach specifically soliciting reports from citizen scientists visiting large, less‐accessible forests may result in better sampling in these habitats. Social media reports indicated the presence of small apes in at least six habitats where they had not been previously reported. We verified the reported data based on whether reports included a date, location, and uploaded photographs, videos and/or audio recordings. Well‐publicized citizen science programs may also build awareness and enthusiasm about the conservation of vulnerable wildlife species.
A Spiderweb‐Like Metal–Organic Framework Multifunctional Foam
Authors: Tan Chen , Lee Michelle C. , Arshadi Mohammad , Azizi Morteza , Abbaspourrad Alireza
Published: February 2020

Processing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) into hierarchical macroscopic materials can greatly extend their practical applications. However, current strategies suffer from severe aggregation of MOFs and limited tuning of the hierarchical porous network. Now, a strategy is presented that can simultaneously tune the MOF loading, composition, spatial distribution, and confinement within various bio‐originated macroscopic supports, as well as control the accessibility, robustness, and formability of the support itself. This method enables the good dispersion of individual MOF nanoparticles on a spiderweb‐like network within each macrovoid even at high loadings (up to 86 wt %), ensuring the foam pores are highly accessible for excellent adsorption and catalytic capacity. Additionally, this approach allows the direct pre‐incorporation of other functional components into the framework. This strategy provides precise control over the properties of both the hierarchical support and MOF.
Influence of oxophilic behavior of UiO‐66(Ce) metal–organic framework with superior catalytic performance in Friedel‐Crafts alkylation reaction
Authors: Nagarjun Nagarathinam , Concepcion Patricia , Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi
Published: February 2020

In recent years, one of the analogous metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with UiO‐66(Zr) topology receiving wider attention is UiO‐66(Ce), which exhibits interesting properties and high thermal and chemical stability. Hence, in the present work, UiO‐66(Ce) is synthesized by adopting an earlier procedure and characterized by series of spectroscopic techniques like UV‐visible (UV‐Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), Raman and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to confirm its structural features and crystallinity using powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and these results are in close agreement with other reports. The catalytic performance of UiO‐66(Ce) was evaluated in the Friedel–Crafts alkylation reaction between β‐nitrostyrene and indole to obtain heterocyclic compounds with biological activity. A series of control experiments indicate that Ce4+ located within the framework plays an important role in promoting this reaction and its activity is found to be much superior to that of UiO‐66(Zr). This enhanced activity with Ce4+ compared to Zr4+ is attributed due to the higher oxophilicity of Ce4+, which can readily bind with an oxygen‐containing substrate such as β‐nitrostyrene. The leaching test confirms the heterogeneity of the reaction and the catalyst can be reused three times with identical activity to the fresh solid. UiO‐66(Ce) shows wide substrate scope with high yields of the desired product. A proposed mechanism is also discussed.
Preparation of Sebacic Acid via Alkali Fusion of Castor Oil and its Several Derivatives
Authors: Yu Siyuan , Cui Jianlan , Wang Xin , Zhong Congshan , Li Yanru , Yao Jun
Published: February 2020

Castor oil and its three derivatives including methyl ricinoleate, sodium ricinoleate and ricinoleic acid were used as the raw material for alkali fusion to prepare sebacic acid. The reaction parameters including catalyst, ratio of oleochemicals/NaOH, reaction time and reaction temperature were optimized. It was found that Pb3O4 (1%) showed the best catalytic performance, and 553 K was considered as the most suitable reaction temperature. The oleochemicals/NaOH ratios of 15:14, 15:14, 15:12 and 15:14 were determined as the optimal ratio for alkali fusion of castor oil, methyl ricinoleate, sodium ricinoleate and ricinoleic acid, respectively. In addition, the optimal reaction time of alkali fusion of castor oil was 5 hours, and that of its derivatives was 3 hours. The maximum yield in sebacic acid of 68.8%, 77.7%, 80.1%, 78.6% can be obtained by using castor oil, methyl ricinoleate, sodium ricinoleate and ricinoleic acid as the raw material, respectively. High purity of sebacic acid was confirmed by GC and melting point analysis. ICP‐OES results illustrated that the content of Pb in sebcic acid was less than 1 mg kg−1. Separating glycerol from castor oil was beneficial for alkali fusion, by which, the yield of sebacic acid was increased of approximately 10%, and the reaction time was reduced from 5 to 3 hours. This study provided guiding significance for the future industrial production of sebacic acid.
Monitoring shallow methane‐derived authigenic carbonate: Insights from a UK Marine Protected Area
Authors: Noble‐James Tamsyn , Judd Alan , Diesing Markus , Clare David , Eggett Andrew , Silburn Briony , Duncan Graeme
Published: February 2020

Methane‐derived authigenic carbonate (MDAC) is a biogenic rocky substrate formed by microbial assemblages below the seabed. It performs important ecosystem functions, including the provision of reef‐like habitats on soft sediments and the sequestration of carbon.

The protection of MDAC is limited at the global scale; however, 27 marine protected areas (MPAs) have been designated in European waters for ‘cold seep’ MDAC, mainly in shallow waters (<200 m). Few studies have been conducted on these habitats from a conservation perspective.

The effective management of MDAC structures requires an understanding of their ecology and physical characteristics in a healthy condition. This is best achieved using a multidisciplinary approach to provide evidence on predefined aspects of MDAC structures, termed feature attributes, which can be assessed to determine habitat condition over time.

This article presents the first UK effort to develop a multidisciplinary approach to monitoring shallow MDAC feature attributes, using the Croker Carbonate Slabs Special Area of Conservation (SAC) as a case study. A range of remote and physical survey methods were used to characterize the MDAC and associated relatively unimpacted and healthy biological communities.

The data confirm that the SAC contains the largest known area of shallow MDAC in European waters, that methane release is ongoing, and that MDAC is still likely to be forming. Specialized chemoautotrophic fauna were not recorded, possibly due to the dominance of fauna that derive carbon (ultimately) from photosynthesis. Five epifaunal taxa were found to be associated with MDAC, but not with the surrounding sediments.

The broad multidisciplinary survey allowed a detailed characterization of shallow MDAC but was resource intensive. We recommend a low‐resource monitoring strategy to deliver cost‐effective and robust evidence for condition assessment and suggest further studies to contextualize future interpretations of change.
Combination of metformin and berberine represses the apoptosis of sebocytes in high‐fat diet‐induced diabetic hamsters and an insulin‐treated human cell line
Authors: Yao Yan , Zuo Jing , Chen Li , Wei Yuegang
Published: February 2020

Obesity and insulin resistance affect metabolic reactions, but their ensuing contributions to macrophage metabolism remain insufficiently understood. We investigated the contributions of berberine and metformin combination to the inhibition of sebocyte apoptosis in high‐fat diet‐induced diabetic hamsters and an insulin‐treated human cell line. Golden hamsters were fed a high‐glucose high‐fat diet and administered a 6‐week treatment with a combination of metformin and two concentrations of berberine (100 or 50 mg·kg−1). Body weights of treated hamsters were remarkably reduced compared with those of controls. Histological examination indicated that berberine repressed liver fat accumulation. Moreover, insulin and glucose concentrations were noticeably decreased by the combination treatments. In glucose tolerance tests, hamsters receiving berberine displayed higher tolerance to glucose, compared with the control group. Sebocytes isolated from high‐fat diet‐induced diabetic hamsters and insulin‐treated human sebocytes displayed elevated cell death rates, which were attenuated by berberine and metformin treatments. Further studies showed that the effects of metformin and berberine on cellular apoptosis were mediated via the Bik pathway. Thus, berberine may effectively decrease circulating glucose levels, ameliorate insulin resistance, reduce body weight, and attenuate sebocyte apoptosis in diabetic hamsters, potentially decreasing vulnerability to the cardiovascular complications of diabetes.

Significance of the study

The present data indicate that insulin stimulates changes in the expression levels of cell death‐associated proteins, which participate in sebaceous gland diseases during obesity or diabetes. The anti‐apoptotic effects of BBR and MET in sebaceous gland cells are regulated partially by Bik expression. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to suggest cell death counteracting effects of BBR in hamster and human sebocytes as well as to propose BBR as an innovative therapeutic agent for insulin‐related sebaceous gland diseases, including acne.
Development of a Neutral Diketopyrrolopyrrole Phosphine Oxide for the Selective Bioimaging of Mitochondria at the Nanomolar Level
Authors: Abelha Thais F. , Morris Graeme , Lima Sandro M. , Andrade Luis H. C. , McLean Andrew J. , Alexander Cameron , Calvo‐Castro Jesus , McHugh Callum J.
Published: February 2020

Development of novel bioimaging materials that exhibit organelle specific accumulation continues to be at the forefront of research interests and efforts. Among the various subcellular organelles, mitochondria, which are found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, are of particular interest in relation to their vital function. To date, most molecular probes that target mitochondria utilise delocalised lipophilic cations such as triphenylphosphonium and pyridinium. However, the use of such charged motifs is known to be detrimental to the working function of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential and there remains a strong case for development of neutral mitochondrial fluorescent probes. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time the exploitation of diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based chemistries for the realisation of a neutral fluorescent probe that exhibits organelle specific accumulation within the mitochondria at the nanomolar level. The synthesised probe, which bears a neutral triphenylphosphine oxide moiety, exhibits a large Stokes shift and high fluorescence quantum yield in water, both highly sought‐after properties in the development of bioimaging agents. In vitro studies reveal no interference with cell metabolism when tested for the human MCF7 breast cancer cell and nanomolar subcellular organelle colocalisation with commercially available mitochondrial staining agent Mitotracker Red. In light of its novelty, neutral structure and the preferential accumulation at nanomolar concentrations we anticipate this work to be of significant interest for the increasingly larger community devoted to the realisation of neutral mitochondrial selective systems and more widely to those engaged in the rational development of superior organic architectures in the biological field.
Chiral Bent‐Shaped Molecules Exhibiting Unusually Wide Range of Blue Liquid‐Crystalline Phases and Multistimuli‐Responsive Behavior
Authors: Punjani Vidhika , Mohiuddin Golam , Kaur Supreet , Choudhury Angshuman Roy , Paladugu Sathyanarayana , Dhara Surajit , Ghosh Sharmistha , Pal Santanu Kumar
Published: February 2020

Recently, an unprecedented observation of polar order, thermochromic behavior, and exotic mesophases in new chiral, bent‐shaped systems with a −CH3 moiety placed at the transverse position of the central core was reported. Herein, a homologous series of compounds with even‐numbered carbon chains from n=4 to 18 were synthesized, in which −Cl was substituted for −CH3 at the kink position and a drastic modification in the phase structure of the bent‐shaped molecule was observed. An unusual stabilization of the cubic blue phase (BP) over a wide range of 16.4 °C has been witnessed. Two homologues in this series (1‐12 and 1‐14) exhibit an interesting phase sequence consisting of BPI/II, chiral nematic, twist grain boundary, smectic A, and smectic X (SmX) phases. The higher homologues (1‐16 and 1‐18) stabilize the SmX phase enantiotropically over the entire temperature range. Crystal structure analysis confirmed the bent molecular architecture, with a bent angle of 148°, and revealed the presence of two different molecular conformations in an asymmetric unit of compound 1‐4. A DFT study corroborated that the −Cl moiety at the central core of the molecule led to an increase in the dipole moment along the transverse direction, which, in turn, facilitated the unusual stabilization of frustrated structures. Crystal polymorphism has been evidenced in three homologues (1‐10, 1‐12, and 1‐14) of the series. On the application of mechanical pressure through grinding, compound 1‐10 transformed from a bright yellow crystalline solid to a dark orange–green amorphous solid, which reversed upon dropwise addition of dichloromethane, indicating reversible mechanochromism in this class of compounds. In addition, excellent thermochromic behavior has been observed for compound 1‐10 with a controlled temperature–color combination.
Determination of protein binding for novel 2‐(2‐hydroxypropanamido)‐5‐trifluoromethyl benzoic acid enantiomers to rats, dogs, and humans plasma by UPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Rong Rong , Wang Xin , Dan Yuhan , Zhang Ruizhen , Zhao Yunli , Yu Zhiguo
Published: February 2020

R‐/S‐2‐(2‐hydroxypropanamido)‐5‐trifluoromethyl benzoic acid (R‐/S‐HFBA) is a novel COX inhibitor with remarkable anti‐inflammatory and antiplatelet aggregation activities, but no gastrointestinal toxicity. In our previous study, the different pharmacokinetic profiles of the two enantiomers in rats were observed after administration of R‐HFBA and S‐HFBA. Stereoselective protein binding of the two enantiomers may be a reason for the different pharmacokinetic behaviors. In this study, we developed and validated an UPLC‐MS/MS method for determining stereoselective binding of HFBA enantiomers to rat, dog, and human plasma in vitro. Chromatographic separation was achieved by gradient elution with a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. MS/MS detection was operated in positive electrospray using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The method was proved to be linear over the concentration range of 0.005 to 10 μg/mL with a lower limit of quantification of 0.005 μg/mL. The developed method was successfully employed to the plasma protein binding study of HFBA enantiomers. Equilibrium dialysis method was applied to assess drug‐plasma protein interactions. The results showed that the enantiomers were both extensively bound to three species plasma and protein binding of R‐/S‐HFBA was concentration dependent. R‐HFBA and S‐HFBA showed significant species difference among rat, dog, and human plasma and stereoselective plasma protein binding.
Monosynaptic inputs to specific cell types of the intermediate and deep layers of the superior colliculus
Authors: Doykos Ted K. , Gilmer Jesse I. , Person Abigail L. , Felsen Gidon
Published: February 2020

The intermediate and deep layers of the midbrain superior colliculus (SC) are a key locus for several critical functions, including spatial attention, multisensory integration, and behavioral responses. While the SC is known to integrate input from a variety of brain regions, progress in understanding how these inputs contribute to SC‐dependent functions has been hindered by the paucity of data on innervation patterns to specific types of SC neurons. Here, we use G‐deleted rabies virus‐mediated monosynaptic tracing to identify inputs to excitatory and inhibitory neurons of the intermediate and deep SC. We observed stronger and more numerous projections to excitatory than inhibitory SC neurons. However, a subpopulation of excitatory neurons thought to mediate behavioral output received weaker inputs, from far fewer brain regions, than the overall population of excitatory neurons. Additionally, extrinsic inputs tended to target rostral excitatory and inhibitory SC neurons more strongly than their caudal counterparts, and commissural SC neurons tended to project to similar rostrocaudal positions in the other SC. Our findings support the view that active intrinsic processes are critical to SC‐dependent functions, and will enable the examination of how specific inputs contribute to these functions.
Inherited variant in NFκB‐1 promoter is associated with increased risk of IBD in an Algerian population and modulates SOX9 binding
Authors: Hamadou Imene , Garritano Sonia , Romanel Alessandro , Naimi Dalila , Hammada Talel , Demichelis Francesca
Published: February 2020

Background

The link between inflammation and cancer development was intensively studied in the last decade. To date, few studies explored the association between inflammatory genes and colorectal cancer (CRC) development.

Aim

The present study aimed to evaluate the implication of three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs28362491 ins/del −94 ATTG in NFκB1, rs6920220 (G/A) in TNFAIP3, and rs419598 (C/T) in IL1RN, which play a role in inflammation regulation in CRC development.

Methods and results

A case‐control study was conducted on an Algerian cohort of 358 subjects (147 healthy people, 89 individuals affected by inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], and 122 CRC patients enrolled at the University Hospital Center Ben Badis of Constantine). SNPs genotyping was performed by allelic discrimination TaqMan assay. The rs28362491 ins/del heterozygous genotype in NFκB1 conferred an increased risk of IBD compared with ins/ins homozygous genotype, with an increase of twofold (OR = 2.34 [1.29‐4.21]; 95% CI, 1.29‐4.21, P value = 0.004). No significant association was detected for the other two variants. Dual‐Luciferase Reporter Assay System performed in LoVo cells showed a significantly higher activity of the construct with ins allele of rs28362491 compared with the one harboring the del allele. Computational analysis nominated SOX9 as putative transcription factor (TF) with higher probability to bind the NFκB1 promoter at the SNP site, and we demonstrated in the in vitro assay that its overexpression modulates NFκB1 promoter activity in allele‐specific manner.

Conclusion

We speculate that SOX9 may modulate the NFκB1 activity by binding its promoter at the SNP site in allelic specific manner.
AGCNN: Adaptive Gabor Convolutional Neural Networks with Receptive Fields for Vein Biometric Recognition
Authors: Zhang Yakun , Li Weijun , Zhang Liping , Ning Xin , Sun Linjun , Lu Yaxuan
Published: February 2020

In recent years, finger vein recognition has attracted more attention and research as a secure method of identification. Convolutional neural networks have achieved great success in the field of finger vein recognition, yet they suffer from high computational complexity, large parameters, and other challenges. To solve these problems, we propose a Gabor convolutional neural network with receptive fields. We use Gabor filters with receptive field properties to design Gabor convolutional layers. Then we replace the conventional convolutional layer with the Gabor convolutional layer; analyze the influence of different loss functions, convolution kernel size, and feature size on the network model; and choose the most suitable model parameters and loss function. Finally, we systematically investigate comparative performance using AGCNN and CNNs in different finger vein databases. Experimental results show that the parameter complexity of AGCNN is significantly less than that of CNNs with a slight performance decrease.
Anisotropic Dynamics of Binary Particles in Confined Geometries
Authors: Liu Kun , Wang Yue , Du Zhongjie , Zhang Chen , Mi Jianguo
Published: February 2020

The diffusion dynamics of colloidal particles in a good solvent confined between two parallel quartz walls have been studied within the framework of dynamical density functional theory. The highly ordered density layers induced by interfacial effects give rise to the oscillating dynamics, resulting in position‐dependent structural relaxations and diffusivities. Further investigation reveals that particle size, particle‐wall interaction, and slitpore width play different roles in affecting the oscillating behaviors along different directions. As a result, the theory yields the local mean square displacements in perpendicular and parallel directions, which agree remarkably well with prior experimental measurements. The results indicate that the mean square displacements can be quantitatively predicted based on the knowledge of inhomogeneous thermodynamics and dynamics. The local and averaged free energy evolution of the binary particles has been described and presented to understand their dynamic mechanism in confined geometry.
Nonsurgical facial tightening after a fractional noninsulated microneedling radiofrequency treatment in Asians
Authors: Tanaka Yohei
Published: February 2020

Background

As our previous three‐dimensional (3D) volumetric investigations have shown, noninsulated microneedle radiofrequency (NIMNRF) with 2.5‐mm penetration depth needles can induce long‐lasting tightening effects. However, further tightening effects for deeper tissues were sometimes required. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a novel fractional NIMNRF treatment strategy with 5.0‐mm penetration depth needles.

Materials and Methods

Twenty Asian patients underwent full facial skin tightening using a sharply tapered NIMNRF applicator with a novel fractionated pulse mode. Patients received from 500 to 1000 pulses of 80 to 110 ms duration at a power of 10 to 14 W and a 1.5‐ to 5.0‐mm penetration depth. A topical anesthetic cream was applied before treatment. 3D volumetric assessments were performed at 6 months after the treatment. Patients rated their satisfaction using a 5‐point scale at each follow‐up.

Results

Objective assessments with superimposed 3D color images showed a significant volumetric reduction in lower two‐thirds of the face for all patients. About 85% of the patients were either “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the treatment results. Side effects were mild and included a slight burning sensation and mild erythema that were minor and transitory. Posttreatment hyperpigmentation was not present, neither were other complications.

Conclusions

The advantages of the novel fractional NIMNRF treatment are the high potency of facial tightening effects, and reduction of discomfort and side effects. Taken together, these characteristics facilitate the ability to give repeated treatments and provide an alternative or adjunct treatment for patients with improved results.
Forest cover and topography regulate the thin, ephemeral snowpacks of the semiarid Southwest United States
Authors: Broxton Patrick D. , van Leeuwen Willem J.D. , Biederman Joel A.
Published: February 2020

In the Southwest United States, water resources depend heavily on snowpacks, which are temporally and spatially limited in this warm, semiarid region. Snow accumulation and ablation in the Southwest are heavily influenced by forest structure. Therefore, water resource managers urgently need to understand the future impacts of unprecedented forest changes now occurring from drought, insect infestation, and forest management. Here, we present state‐of‐the‐art maps and time series of snow water equivalent (SWE), which account for spatial variability of snow depth and snow density over a large range of forest structure and topographies in the highlands of central Arizona. We show that the degree of forest cover and its geometry largely determine which areas have more/less snow accumulation and faster/slower ablation. Compared with under‐canopy areas, open areas can have 20–30% more accumulation and ablation rates can vary by 15–30% in sunny areas versus shaded areas. Although SWE response to forest cover is widely variable, depending on how much shading the trees provide versus how much snow is intercepted and lost through canopy sublimation, dense forests generally have less SWE than sparser forests. In general, SWE is optimized at intermediate levels of forest cover (~30–50%) on flat and north‐facing slopes. Somewhat counterintuitively, increasing forest cover generally causes a reduction of SWE on south‐facing slopes, where trees are less effective at reducing radiative forcing at the snow surface due to less efficient shading and increased enhancement of longwave radiation from the warm canopy.
Richness, phylogenetic diversity, and abundance all have positive effects on invader performance in an arid ecosystem
Authors: El‐Barougy Reham , MacIvor J. Scott , Arnillas Carlos A. , Nada Reham M. , Khedr Abdel‐Hamid A. , Cadotte Marc W.
Published: February 2020

In search of generalities in biological invasions, it is sometimes forgotten that invader success can be a function of both the diversity of the invaded community and the relatedness of the invader relative to community residents. Both qualities are likely to be especially important in stressful ecosystems, and identifying the species and community attributes that influence biological invasions can help direct management efforts in a sensitive ecosystem like those in arid regions. Pink Morning Glory, Ipomoea carnea Jaq. (Family: Convolvulaceae), is an annual vine native to Central and South America and is invasive in Egypt. We examined the performance of I. carnea at different densities in assembled communities of Egyptian annual native species. The native plant communities were manipulated to represent gradients of species richness and phylogenetic diversity and relatedness to I. carnea. We quantified the performance of I. carnea in these communities and examined the contribution of resident species richness, phylogenetic diversity, and phylogenetic relatedness to invader resistance. Our findings revealed that there was a positive relationship between invader performance and its mean phylogenetic distance to the resident species. Furthermore, species‐rich communities with more distantly related species positively contributed to invader performance in contrast to the classic biotic resistance hypothesis. Beyond these positive relationships, a positive density‐dependent effect of I. carnea on its performance was observed. We conclude that facilitative interactions are potentially important drivers promoting the successful invasion of the nonnative species I. carnea in water‐limited and harsh ecosystems. These results suggest that perhaps contrary to understanding from temperate systems, communities with a higher diversity of species could be more likely to be invaded by arid‐adapted species that are distantly related to natives. Thus, policy and management in arid regions should carefully consider reviewing the importation of nonnative species that are phylogenetically distinct and adapted to arid conditions and prioritizing their control once they are established.
Probing Isoreticular Expansions in Phosphonate MOFs and their Applications
Authors: Tholen Patrik , Zorlu Yunus , Beckmann Jens , Yücesan Gündoğ
Published: February 2020

This review is divided into three different parts. In the introduction, the current applications of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are shown. Furthermore, the overall stability, a comparison of phosphonate MOFs with carboxylate MOFs, the structural richness of phosphonate MOFs with the challenge in synthesis and different linker geometries is discussed. In the second part, several phosphonate MOFs with Y‐shaped planar, X‐shaped planar, and X‐shaped tetrahedral linker systems are described. The final part discusses different structures of inorganic building units (IBUs) with different metal atoms and a comparison of the formed MOF structures.
Role of the Hydroxo Group in the Coordination of Citric Acid to Trivalent Americium
Authors: Tamain Christelle , Bonato Laura , Aupiais Jean , Dumas Thomas , Guillaumont Dominique , Barkleit Astrid , Berthon Claude , Solari Pier L. , Ikeda‐Ohno Atsushi , Guilbaud Philippe , Moisy Philippe
Published: February 2020

The molecular characterization based on multi‐technique approach has led to major highlights on revealing the coordination of americium with citric acid. The structure of the different complexes at pH 1 and 3 are described. These characterizations are made possible by the comparison of the americium‐citric acid system with the americium‐tricarballylic acid (one analogue of the citric acid without the alpha‐hydroxo group). The structural analyses (Vis spectrophotometry, NMR, EXAFS, TRLFS and capillary electrophoresis) were carried out after the establishment of the speciation distribution diagrams, allowing to take into account the species repartition for structural analysis data treatment. For the 1:1 complex the hydroxo group is counter intuitively deprotonated and coordinated to the Am(III) at pH 1 as well as two carboxylate functions, whereas at pH 3 the hydroxo is not coordinated and stays protonated allowing the three carboxylate functions to coordinate the metallic cation. Therefore, the hydroxo group affects the Am complexation differently depending on the pHs: by inductive effect at pH 3, and by direct coordination at pH 1.
Manganese‐Catalyzed One‐Pot Conversion of Nitroarenes into N‐Methylarylamines Using Methanol
Authors: Reed‐Berendt Benjamin G. , Mast Nicolas , Morrill Louis C.
Published: February 2020

A manganese‐catalyzed one‐pot conversion of nitroarenes into N‐methylarylamines has been developed. This transfer hydrogenation method employs a well‐defined bench stable Mn PN3P pincer precatalyst in combination with methanol as both the reductant and the C1 source. A selection of commercially available nitroarenes was converted into N‐methylarylamines in synthetically useful yields.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Direct Arylation of Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine with Aryl Iodides
Authors: Babar Dattatraya A. , Rode Haridas B.
Published: February 2020

The Co(II)Cl2·6H2O catalyzed C–H activation/direct arylation of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine with aryl/heteroaryl iodide is reported. The cost effective, ligand and additive free protocol using KOAc successfully afforded 3‐arylimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines in good yields. Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines with electron withdrawing and electron donating substituents with various aryl iodides are well tolerated. The reaction is performed in a Screw‐top V‐Vial® to expedite the synthesis. The antibacterial 3‐naphthyl imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine is smoothly prepared using this protocol.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed ortho‐Alkenylation of Aroylgermanes
Authors: Wang Hai , Yuan Yang , Zhang Youcan , Franke Robert , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: February 2020

In this communication, a ruthenium‐catalyzed ortho‐alkenylation of acylgermanes with electron‐deficient alkenes through direct C–H bond activation has been developed. With acylgermane as the directing group, this method provides a straightforward access to diverse acylgermanes derivatives with good functional group tolerance and site‐selectivity under mild reaction conditions.
Formulation of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) essential oil nano‐emulsion via phase inversion temperature method
Authors: Vinh Truong Dam Thai , Hien Ly Thi Minh , Dao Dong Thi Anh
Published: February 2020

Recent trends in preservation of processed foods involve the use of natural compounds, rather than chemically synthesized additives, to simultaneously confer antimicrobial properties and prevent fat oxidation. In this regard, black pepper essential oils, due to its diversity in biological activities, have been increasingly popular. The compounds are often used in relatively low amounts and in the form of nanoparticles to permit well blending into foods or uniform dispersion on the surface of fresh meat. The purpose of this study is to determine experimental parameters of a nano‐emulsion formation process from black pepper essential oil via the phase inversion temperature (PIT) technique. The study results showed that the system achieved the optimal nano‐emulsion under following condition: the ratio by weight of water: Tween‐80: oil = 86:9.7:4.3, the stirring speed of nano‐emulsions at 500 rpm for 45 min (heating at 75°C for 30 min and then rapidly cooling at 5°C for 15 min).
Reciprocal Regulation Between Forkhead Box M1/NF‐κB and Methionine Adenosyltransferase 1A Drives Liver Cancer
Authors: Li Yuan , Lu Liqing , Tu Jian , Zhang Jing , Xiong Ting , Fan Wei , Wang Jiaohong , Li Meng , Chen Yibu , Steggerda Justin , Peng Hui , Chen Yongheng , Li Tony W.H. , Zhou Zhi‐Gang , Mato José M. , Seki Ekihiro , Liu Ting , Yang Heping , Lu Shelly C.
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐ĸB) are oncogenic drivers in liver cancer that positively regulate each other. We showed that methionine adenosyltransferase 1A (MAT1A) is a tumor suppressor in the liver and inhibits NF‐ĸB activity. Here, we examined the interplay between FOXM1/NF‐κB and MAT1A in liver cancer.

Approach and Results

We examined gene and protein expression, effects on promoter activities and binding of proteins to promoter regions, as well as effects of FOXM1 inhibitors T0901317 (T0) and forkhead domain inhibitory‐6 (FDI‐6) in vitro and in xenograft and syngeneic models of liver cancer. We found, in both hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma, that an induction in FOXM1 and NF‐κB expression is accompanied by a fall in MATα1 (protein encoded by MAT1A). The Cancer Genome Atlas data set confirmed the inverse correlation between FOXM1 and MAT1A. Interestingly, FOXM1 directly interacts with MATα1 and they negatively regulate each other. In contrast, FOXM1 positively regulates p50 and p65 expression through MATα1, given that the effect is lost in its absence. FOXM1, MATα1, and NF‐κB all bind to the FOX binding sites in the FOXM1 and MAT1A promoters. However, binding of FOXM1 and NF‐κB repressed MAT1A promoter activity, but activated the FOXM1 promoter. In contrast, binding of MATα1 repressed the FOXM1 promoter. MATα1 also binds and represses the NF‐κB element in the presence of p65 or p50. Inhibiting FOXM1 with either T0 or FDI‐6 inhibited liver cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. However, inhibiting FOXM1 had minimal effects in liver cancer cells that do not express MAT1A.

Conclusions

We have found a crosstalk between FOXM1/NF‐κB and MAT1A. Up‐regulation in FOXM1 lowers MAT1A, but raises NF‐κB, expression, and this is a feed‐forward loop that enhances tumorigenesis.
Hepatic Carbohydrate Response Element Binding Protein Activation Limits Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Development in a Mouse Model for Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1a
Authors: Lei Yu , Hoogerland Joanne A. , Bloks Vincent W. , Bos Trijnie , Bleeker Aycha , Wolters Henk , Wolters Justina C. , Hijmans Brenda S. , van Dijk Theo H. , Thomas Rachel , van Weeghel Michel , Mithieux Gilles , Houtkooper Riekelt H. , de Bruin Alain , Rajas Fabienne , Kuipers Folkert , Oosterveer Maaike H.
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

Glycogen storage disease (GSD) type 1a is an inborn error of metabolism caused by defective glucose‐6‐phosphatase catalytic subunit (G6PC) activity. Patients with GSD 1a exhibit severe hepatomegaly due to glycogen and triglyceride (TG) accumulation in the liver. We have shown that the activity of carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP), a key regulator of glycolysis and de novo lipogenesis, is increased in GSD 1a. In the current study, we assessed the contribution of ChREBP to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development in a mouse model for hepatic GSD 1a.

Approach and Results

Liver‐specific G6pc–knockout (L‐G6pc
−/−) mice were treated with adeno‐associated viruses (AAVs) 2 or 8 directed against short hairpin ChREBP to normalize hepatic ChREBP activity to levels observed in wild‐type mice receiving AAV8–scrambled short hairpin RNA (shSCR). Hepatic ChREBP knockdown markedly increased liver weight and hepatocyte size in L‐G6pc
−/− mice. This was associated with hepatic accumulation of G6P, glycogen, and lipids, whereas the expression of glycolytic and lipogenic genes was reduced. Enzyme activities, flux measurements, hepatic metabolite analysis and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL)‐TG secretion assays revealed that hepatic ChREBP knockdown reduced downstream glycolysis and de novo lipogenesis but also strongly suppressed hepatic VLDL lipidation, hence promoting the storage of “old fat.” Interestingly, enhanced VLDL‐TG secretion in shSCR‐treated L‐G6pc
−/− mice associated with a ChREBP‐dependent induction of the VLDL lipidation proteins microsomal TG transfer protein and transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2), the latter being confirmed by ChIP‐qPCR.

Conclusions

Attenuation of hepatic ChREBP induction in GSD 1a liver aggravates hepatomegaly because of further accumulation of glycogen and lipids as a result of reduced glycolysis and suppressed VLDL‐TG secretion. TM6SF2, critical for VLDL formation, was identified as a ChREBP target in mouse liver. Altogether, our data show that enhanced ChREBP activity limits NAFLD development in GSD 1a by balancing hepatic TG production and secretion.
Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease‐Lactate and Prediction of Inpatient Mortality in Patients With Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Sarmast Naveed , Ogola Gerald O. , Kouznetsova Maria , Leise Michael D. , Bahirwani Ranjeeta , Maiwall Rakhi , Tapper Elliot , Trotter James , Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Thacker Leroy R. , Tandon Puneeta , Wong Florence , Reddy K. Rajender , O'Leary Jacqueline G. , Masica Andrew , Modrykamien Ariel M. , Kamath Patrick S. , Asrani Sumeet K.
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

Compared to other chronic diseases, patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) have significantly higher inpatient mortality; accurate models to predict inpatient mortality are lacking. Serum lactate (LA) may be elevated in patients with CLD due to both tissue hypoperfusion as well as decreased LA clearance. We hypothesized that a parsimonious model consisting of Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) and LA at admission may predict inpatient mortality in patients with CLD.

Approach and Results

We examined all patients with CLD in two large and diverse health care systems in Texas (North Texas [NTX] and Central Texas [CTX]) between 2010 and 2015. We developed (n = 3,588) and validated (n = 1,804) a model containing MELD and LA measured at the time of hospitalization. We further validated the model in a second cohort of 14 tertiary care hepatology centers that prospectively enrolled nonelective hospitalized patients with cirrhosis (n = 726). MELD‐LA was an excellent predictor of inpatient mortality in development (concordance statistic [C‐statistic] = 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.79‐0.82) and both validation cohorts (CTX cohort, C‐statistic = 0.85, 95% CI 0.78‐0.87; multicenter cohort C‐statistic = 0.82, 95% CI 0.74‐0.88). MELD‐LA performed especially well in patients with specific cirrhosis diagnoses (C‐statistic = 0.84, 95% CI 0.81‐0.86) or sepsis (C‐statistic = 0.80, 95% CI 0.78‐0.82). For MELD score 25, inpatient mortality rates were 11.2% (LA = 1 mmol/L), 19.4% (LA = 3 mmol/L), 34.3% (LA = 5 mmol/L), and >50% (LA > 8 mmol/L). A linear increase (P < 0.01) was seen in MELD‐LA and increasing number of organ failures. Overall, use of MELD‐LA improved the risk prediction in 23.5% of patients compared to MELD alone.

Conclusions

MELD‐LA (bswh.md/meldla) is an early and objective predictor of inpatient mortality and may serve as a model for risk assessment and guide therapeutic options.
Hepatocyte‐Specific Expression of Human Carboxylesterase 1 Attenuates Diet‐Induced Steatohepatitis and Hyperlipidemia in Mice
Authors: Xu Yanyong , Zhu Yingdong , Bawa Fathima Cassim , Hu Shuwei , Pan Xiaoli , Yin Liya , Zhang Yanqiao
Published: February 2020

Rodents have at least five carboxylesterase 1 (Ces1) genes, whereas there is only one CES1 gene in humans, raising the question as to whether human CES1 and mouse Ces1 genes share the same functions. In this study, we investigate the role of human CES1 in the development of steatohepatitis or dyslipidemia in C57BL/6 mice. Hepatocyte‐specific expression of human CES1 prevented Western diet or alcohol‐induced steatohepatitis and hyperlipidemia. Mechanistically, human CES1 induced lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation, leading to a reduction in hepatic triglyceride and free fatty acid levels. Human CES1 also reduced hepatic‐free cholesterol levels and induced low‐density lipoprotein receptor. In addition, human CES1 induced hepatic lipoprotein lipase and apolipoprotein C‐II expression. Conclusion: Hepatocyte‐specific overexpression of human CES1 attenuates diet‐induced steatohepatitis and hyperlipidemia.
Prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among reproductive age women from Kashmir valley: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ganie Mohd Ashraf , Rashid Aafia , Sahu Danendra , Nisar Sobia , Wani Ishfaq A. , Khan Junaida
Published: February 2020

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among women of reproductive age across educational institutions in the Kashmir valley.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted from May 2013 to May 2015. Eligible girls and women aged 15–40 years were included using a multistage random selection process from five out of 12 districts in turn housing 14 educational institutions. They were screened through a brief questionnaire in a staged manner. After obtaining consent, women underwent detailed clinical, biochemical, hormonal, and sonographic evaluation to satisfy Rotterdam 2003 criteria. The participants were also evaluated using NIH and AE‐PCOS criteria.

Results

Out of a total of 3300 eligible women, 964 women were evaluated using a structured questionnaire. Among these, 446 (46.4%) were identified as “probable PCOS” cases. Out of 171 probable PCOS women who completed all biochemical, hormonal, and sonographic assessment, 35.3% qualified for a diagnosis of PCOS using Rotterdam criteria. The prevalence of PCOS was 28.9% by NIH criteria and 34.3% by AE‐PCOS criteria.

Conclusion

The prevalence of PCOS is high among Kashmiri women and is probably the highest in a published series globally. A countrywide systematic prevalence study is warranted to reconfirm the findings.