bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photochromic and fluorescent ink using photoluminescent strontium aluminate pigment and screen printing towards anticounterfeiting documents
Authors: Abdelhameed Marwa M. , Attia Yasser A. , Abdelrahman Meram S. , Khattab Tawfik A.
Published: November 2020

Novel inorganic–organic hybrid photochromic and fluorescent ink for anticounterfeiting documents was developed using a pigment/resin ink formula enclosing a long‐lived luminescent inorganic pigment with good thermal photostability. The produced ink exhibited an optimal excitation wavelength at 360 nm with an absorption colour and fluorescence changes in the printed document. To develop a transparent printed film from pigment/resin ink, the phosphorescent pigment has to be well dispersed physically without agglomeration. The pigment/resin hybrid was applied effectively onto commercial cellulose paper sheets using screen‐printing technology. An homogeneous photochromic layer was deposited on cellulose paper document surface to afford a considerable greenish‐yellow colour as demonstrated by CIE coloration measurements under a UV lamp, even at a pigment concentration as low as 0.1 wt% of the ink formulation. The printed paper sheets exhibited three excitation bands at 235, 274 and 378 nm and three emission bands at 416, 418 and 436 nm. Fluorescence optical microscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry of the printed paper sheet were explored. The screen‐printed paper sheets displayed a reversible and fast photochromism during ultraviolet irradiation without fatigue. The rheological properties, stability, and printability of the ink were studied.
New bis‐photochromic compounds based on diarylimidazoles: Synthesis and multistimuli‐responsive optical properties
Authors: Song Guangliang , Song Yuwei , Zhu Senqiang , Ji Jinfeng , Liu Rui , Zhu Hongjun
Published: November 2020

Three new bis‐photochromic molecules containing two 4,5‐diarylimidazole units were synthesized and characterized. We investigated their photophysical properties and pH response characteristics in acetonitrile solutions and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) membranes. All compounds displayed significant pH responses for the imidazole ring in the molecular structure, which could be potentially used as pH probes. Under ultraviolet light, these compounds show photochromism and ‘turn‐off’ fluorescence properties either in solution or in PMMA film. The mechanism of this phenomenon may be due to photoisomerization, that is the conversion of the 4,5‐diarylimidazole units open‐ring form to the closed‐ring form. Moreover, such systems as logic gates, high density (3D) data storage systems and optical equivalents of field‐effect transistors are considered necessary for optical computing.
Plasma metabolomics analysis of the effects of drinking soda water on hyperglycemia mice using ultrahigh‐pressure liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time of flight‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Han Dan , Shi Litian , Pan Hongzhi
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a natural soda water [Shi Han Quan (SHQ)] on hyperglycemia and plasma metabolic profiling and explore the mechanism using metabolomics techniques. Kun‐Ming mice weighing 26 ± 2 g were used for the hyperglycemia animal model with alloxan and divided into control, hyperglycemia (HG), and HG + SHQ soda water (SHQ) groups. The experiment lasted for 30 days. The plasma metabolomic profiling of mice was determined using ultrahigh‐pressure liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time of flight‐mass spectrometry. After the mice drank SHQ soda water, the levels of insulin and blood glucose were significantly lower in the SHQ group compared with the control group, and the level of insulin sensitivity [insulin sensitivity index (ISI)] was significantly higher in the SHQ group compared with the HG group. The mice in the different groups after SHQ intervention could be separated into distinct clusters, and nine major plasma metabolites with significant differences between groups were found closely associated with blood glucose and ISI. The metabolic pathway analysis of these metabolites involved abnormal fatty acid oxidation and phospholipid, acylcarnitine, and corticoid metabolism. The results suggested the metabolic changes and possible mechanism of SHQ improving the alloxan‐induced HG, and the findings provided insights into the prevention and control of HG and diabetes.
Pigmentary traits, sun exposure, and risk of non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma/chronic lymphocytic leukemia: A study within the French E3N prospective cohort
Authors: Garcin Louis‐Marie , Gelot Amandine , Gomez Roselyn‐Rima , Gusto Gaëlle , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Kvaskoff Marina , Severi Gianluca , Besson Caroline
Published: November 2020

To investigate whether risk factors for keratinocyte carcinomas (KCs), namely pigmentary traits and sun exposure, are associated with risk of non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). E3N is a prospective cohort of French women aged 40–65 years at inclusion in 1990. Cancer data were collected at baseline and updated every 2–3 years. Hazard Ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between pigmentary traits and sun exposure, and risk of CLL/NHL were estimated using Cox models. With a median follow‐up of 24 years, 622 incident cases of CLL/NHL were ascertained among the 92,097 included women. The presence of nevi was associated with CLL/NHL risk: HR for “many or very many nevi” relative to “no nevi”: 1.56 [1.15; 2.11]. Such association with number of nevi appears to be mostly limited to risk of CLL: HR for “many or very many nevi”: 3.00 [1.38; 6.52]; versus 1.32 [0.94; 1.84] for NHL. Women whose skin was highly sensitive to sunburn also had a higher risk of CLL: HR = 1.96 [1.21; 3.18], while no increase in risk of NHL was observed. Skin or hair color, number of freckles, and average daily ultraviolet (UV) dose during spring and summer in location of residence at birth or at inclusion (kJ/m2) were not associated with CLL/NHL risk. Some pigmentary traits (presence of nevi and skin sensitivity), but not sun exposure, were associated with CLL/NHL. These observations suggest that CLL may share some constitutional risk factors with keratinocyte cancers.
Drug‐eluting stent, drug eluting balloon controversy in peripheral artery disease; what is the verdict?
Authors: Kilic Ismail Dogu , Cilingiroglu Mehmet
Published: November 2020

Key Points

Previous meta‐analysis raised concerns about the safety of paclitaxel‐coated devices in the treatment of PAD.

However, real world data does not seem to agree with these findings.

Increased mortality in patients with peripheral arterial disease and the true and beneficial treatment effects of these technologies need to be clarified as many patients clearly can benefit from them.
STEMI in young women: Don't miss spontaneous coronary artery dissection!
Authors: Quesada Odayme , Henry Timothy D.
Published: November 2020

Key Points

Sex difference in STEMI in young patients under 45 years old: 22% of women had spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) compared to only 3% of men.

Young women were more likely to have reinfarction compared to men (15 vs. 1%).

In contrast to previous reports, in‐hospital mortality was low in both young women and men with STEMI (2%).
Combined edge‐to‐edge tricuspid and mitral valve repair: Promising but still a long and bumpy road
Authors: Tarantini Giuseppe , Masiero Giulia
Published: November 2020

Key Points

The effective treatment of significant tricuspid regurgitation remains an unmet clinical need, especially in patients denied from surgery.

Combined transcatheter “edge‐to‐edge” mitral and tricuspid valve repair with MitraClip system is a feasible but challenging procedure and a learning experience might favorable impact on outcomes.

Further technological improvements and studies on percutaneous approach in experienced heart valve centers are needed.
A rare case of maxillary nodular fasciitis: Case report and short literature review
Authors: Massarelli Mauro , Paparo Francesco , Benedetti Simone
Published: November 2020

Nodular fasciitis has to be considered as an option in the presence of a solitary, rapidly growing mass even in older adults. When possible, direct surgery should be preferred to FNAC, particularly in the older adults because of high misdiagnostic risk.
Absent lunula: An overlooked finding in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Daadaa Najla , Souissi Asmahane , Ben Kaab Badreddine , Zouaghi Mohamed Karim , Mokni Mourad
Published: November 2020

We highlight the importance of a thorough nail examination in every clinical encounter, especially in uremic patients. Absent lunula should prompt the clinician to rule out underlying kidney disease even in the absence of signs of uremia.
Iatrogenic esophageal and tracheal perforation with tracheoesophageal fistula following emergency intubation
Authors: Alkrekshi Akram , Bukamur Hazim
Published: November 2020

Iatrogenic tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) through direct penetration of esophageal and tracheal walls is exceedingly rare. Body tissues sealing around the tube may result in delayed development of respiratory complications and diagnosis. Pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax may be absent. Maintaining the airway through TEF until tracheostomy resulted in a satisfactory outcome.
Terlipressin‐induced foot ischemia
Authors: Ata Fateen , Ahmed Osman Ahmed Mohamed Elmudathir , Dakhlia Ines , Zahid Muhammad
Published: November 2020

Terlipressin‐induced peripheral ischemia is a rare side effect of the drug, which should be timely identified and treated to prevent permanent necrosis.
Follow‐up CMR in a case of Loeffler endocarditis
Authors: Asadian Sanaz , Jahanshahi Bahareh , Rezaeian Nahid
Published: November 2020

The typical finding of hypereosinophilic syndrome (Eosinophilic myocarditis) in the delayed enhancement (DE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the “double V” sign, which includes (a) normal myocardium, (b) thickened enhanced endomyocardial layer, and (c) overlying apical thrombus. Corticosteroids may result in significant improvement of myocardial involvement.
Diatomite Stabilized KOH: An Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for Cyclopentanone Self‐condensation
Authors: Xu Qianqian , Sheng Xueru , Jia Haiyuan , Li Na , Zhang Jian , Shi Haiqiang , Niu Meihong , Ping Qingwei
Published: November 2020

Aldol condensation of cyclopentanone is an attractive reaction for bio‐jet fuel production. KOH is an efficient homogeneous catalyst for aldol condensation but suffering the problem of separation. In this paper, a heterogeneous catalyst, diatomite stabilized KOH (KOH/diatomite) was prepared in a simple way (dry‐mixed impregnation process), and exhibited good activity (overall yield: 85.0 %) and reusability. To clarify the support effect of diatomite, KOH/SiO2 catalyst was also prepared. According to characterizations of these two catalysts, we suggest that the excellent catalytic activity of KOH/diatomite can be attributed to the formation of K−O−Si bond. In addition, the impurity elements existed in diatomite (e. g. CaO, Na2O, Al2O3) and higher BET surface areas may also benefit to this reaction. This study provides a new possibility for converting homogeneous catalyst (KOH) to heterogeneous catalyst (KOH/diatomite). In this way, KOH/diatomite performed excellent catalytic activity and exhibited stable reusability, which can avoid the problem of separation and pollution.
Asymmetric synthesis of (S)‐α‐(octyl)glycine via alkylation of Ni(II) complex of chiral glycine Schiff base
Authors: Fu Bo , Takeda Ryosuke , Zou Yupiao , Konno Hiroyuki , Moriwaki Hiroki , Abe Hidenori , Han Jianlin , Izawa Kunisuke , Soloshonok Vadim A.
Published: November 2020

Over last decade, the use of Ni(II) complexes, derived from of glycine Schiff bases with chiral tridentate ligands, has emerge as a leading methodology for preparation of structurally diverse Tailor‐Made Amino Acids, the key structural units in modern medicinal chemistry, and drug design. Here, we report asymmetric synthesis of derivatives of (S)‐α‐(octyl)glycine ((S)‐2‐aminodecanoic acid) and its N‐Fmoc derivative via alkylation of chiral nucleophilic glycine equivalent with n‐octyl bromide. Under the optimized conditions, the alkylation proceeds with excellent yield (98.1%) and diastereoselectivity (98.8% de). The observed stereochemical outcome and convenient reaction conditions bode well for application of this method for large‐scale asymmetric synthesis of (S)‐2‐aminodecanoic acid and its derivatives.
Landschaftsgestalter CO2
Authors: Sicker Dieter
Published: November 2020

Reisen Sie gern? Oft hat man dabei unerwartete Erlebnisse, die irgendwie mit Chemie zu tun haben und chemisches Lehrbuchwissen wird ungeahnt erweitert. Es verknüpft sich mit Geschichte und Geschichten, unbekannten Anwendungen, praktischen Handgriffen und dem realen Leben anderer Menschen. Man staunt über etwas, in dem man gar nichts Staunenswertes vermutete. Über solche kleinen Wunder soll diese Serie berichten. Mehr als sonst wollen wir dazu Fotos benutzen. Diesmal besuchen wir verschiedene Orte, die besonders vom „Landschaftsgestalter“ CO2 geprägt wurden.
Two‐phase flow‐patterns identification in oil/gas pipelines based on fractal analysis
Authors: Moguel‐Castañeda Jazael G. , Rocha‐Lara Carlos E. , Ramirez‐Castelan Carlos E. , Soto‐Cortes Gabriel , Hernandez‐Martinez Eliseo , Puebla Hector
Published: November 2020

Flow‐pattern identification in two‐phase pipelines is essential for energy reduction as well as for the selection of suitable operating conditions for effective flow transport. The flow pattern in conventional oil/gas pipelines exhibit different flow patterns due to the underlying complex interactions of transport processes at different time scales. Fractal analysis of complex time series has received significant attention in the past few years due to its ability to extract hidden useful information from underlying phenomena in the time‐series complexity. In this work, the potential of fractal analysis for flow‐pattern identification in oil/gas pipelines is investigated using voltage measurements. Experimental data from a downward‐inclined oil/gas pipeline system at different superficial velocities of gas were analyzed. Our results indicate that fractal parameters can be useful for flow‐pattern identification and to gain insights into the complex phenomena of multiphase systems.
Benefit and risk of adding rivaroxaban in patients with coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xie Cheng , Hang Yongfu , Zhu Jianguo , Li Caiyun , Jiang Bin , Zhang Yuzhen , Miao Liyan
Published: November 2020

Background

Although the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration have, respectively, approved rivaroxaban for the prevention of recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with myocardial infarction and stable coronary artery disease, its efficacy and safety is unclear. This meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the benefit and risk of adding rivaroxaban in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients, focusing on treatment effects stratified by different baseline clinical presentations.

Hypothesis

There are differences in treatment effects of adding rivaroxaban among CAD patients with different baseline clinical presentations.

Methods

Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Databases were systematically searched from inception to 21 July 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing rivaroxaban in CAD patients. The primary efficacy endpoint and safety endpoint were assessed by using Mantel–Haenszel pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Five RCTs that included 43 650 patients were identified. Patients receiving rivaroxaban had a significantly lower risk of the primary efficacy endpoint (RR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.76–0.97, p = .01) accompanied by increased risk of the primary safety endpoint (RR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.10–3.05, p = .02). Subgroup analyses showed that in males the risk–benefit appears to be more favorable while in patients ≥65 years, in females, in patients with diabetes, those with mild to moderate impaired renal function, and region of Asia/other seems unfavorable.

Conclusion

Rivaroxaban may provide an additional choice for secondary prevention in CAD patients. However, careful estimation of the risk of ischemic and bleeding events using patient characteristics are critical to achieving net benefit.
Adsorption of Diazo Dye from Aqueous Solutions by Magnetic Montmorillonite Composite
Authors: Tunali Akar Sibel , Ozdemir Irem , Sayin Fatih , Akar Tamer
Published: November 2020

Synthetic dyes have complex molecular structures and are stable molecules against oxidizing agents, sunlight, and microbial attack. Therefore, the treatment of dye‐containing wastewater using appropriate techniques is of great importance. Difficulties in separation and recovery of an adsorbent from the solution limit the large‐scale applications of the adsorption process. A magnetic separation technique can be adapted to the adsorption process to overcome these limitations. In this study, a natural mineral‐based magnetic adsorbent is prepared by a co‐precipitation method. Adsorption performance of magnetic montmorillonite (MagMt) is evaluated in both batch and continuous systems as a function of initial pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, ionic strength, flow rate, and bed depth. MagMt is characterized through infrared (IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and zeta potential measurement. Sorption yield of MagMt for Bismark Brown‐Y (BB‐Y) is found as maximum (98.60%) at pH 4 with 40 mg adsorbent. Fast sorption equilibrium is attained within 10 min and the sorption data follow the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum monolayer sorption capacity of MagMt is 138.70 mg g‒1.
Measuring Protein Synthesis in Cultured Cells and Mouse Tissues Using the Non‐radioactive SUnSET Assay
Authors: Ravi Venkatraman , Jain Aditi , Mishra Sneha , Sundaresan Nagalingam Ravi
Published: November 2020

Changes in protein synthesis occur under diverse physiological and pathological conditions. For example, translation can increase in response to growth signals or decrease in response to pathological states. Such changes have traditionally been measured by tracking the incorporation of radiolabeled amino acids. However, use of radioactivity is increasingly disfavored, and a simple and efficient puromycin‐based, non‐radioactive method called the SUnSET assay has gained popularity for measuring protein synthesis in diverse cell types and tissues. Here, we describe the principles, procedures, and troubleshooting steps for measuring protein synthesis using the SUnSET assay in cultured cells and mouse tissues. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC

Basic Protocol 1: Measuring protein synthesis in cultured cells by western blotting

Support Protocol 1: Ponceau staining

Support Protocol 2: Testing the specificity of the anti‐puromycin antibody

Basic Protocol 2: Measuring protein synthesis in cultured cells by immunofluorescence

Basic Protocol 3: Measuring protein synthesis in mouse tissues by western blotting
Holocene progradation and retrogradation of the Central Texas Coast regulated by alongshore and cross‐shore sediment flux variability
Authors: Odezulu Christopher I. , Swanson Travis , Anderson John B.
Published: November 2020

Fifteen transects of sediment cores located off the central Texas coast between Matagorda Peninsula and North Padre Island were investigated to examine the offshore record of Holocene evolution of the central Texas coast. The transects extend from near the modern shoreline to beyond the toe of the shoreface. Lithology, grain size and fossil content were used to identify upper shoreface, lower shoreface, ebb‐tidal delta and marine mud lithofacies. Interpretations of these core transects show a general stratigraphic pattern across the study area that indicates three major episodes of shoreface displacement. First, there was an episode of shoreface progradation that extended up to 5 km seaward. Second, an episode of landward shoreline displacement is indicated by 3–4 km of marine mud onlap. Third, the marine muds are overlain by shoreface sands, which indicates another episode of shoreface progradation of up to 5 km seaward. Radiocarbon ages constrain the onset of the first episode of progradation to ca 6.5 ka, ending at ca 5.0 ka when the rate of sea‐level rise slowed from an average rate of 1.6–0.5 mm/yr. Results from sediment budget calculations and sediment transport modelling based on reasonable estimates of an ancient shoreline shape and wave climate indicate that the first progradation was a result of sand supplied from erosion of the offshore Colorado and Rio Grande deltas. The transgressive phase occurred between ca 4.9 ka and ca 1.6 ka and coincided with a major expansion of the Texas Mud Blanket, which resulted in burial of offshore sand sources and the shoreface being inundated with mud. The second, more recent episode of shoreface progradation began ca 500 years ago with a maximum rate of ca 6 m/yr. This most recent change signals a healing phase of coastal evolution from the late Holocene transgressive event. Currently, the shoreline along the central Texas coast is retreating landward at an average rate of 0.30 m/yr, indicating that the second progradation event has ended.
Increase in drugs‐of‐abuse findings in post‐mortem toxicology due to COVID‐19 restrictions—First observations in Finland
Authors: Mariottini Claudia , Ojanperä Ilkka , Kriikku Pirkko
Published: November 2020

A lot has been published on the anticipated effects of the current COVID‐19 pandemic on users of illegal drugs. In this study, we present evidence‐based data on such effects, namely, the increased number of drug findings in post‐mortem investigations. All post‐mortem toxicology cases positive for at least one of the following: buprenorphine, amphetamine or cannabis, were investigated in the first 8 months of the year 2020, and the monthly numbers were compared to those in the previous 5 years from 2015 to 2019. These substances served as indicator analytes that could reveal changes in the drug using population. Right after the government restrictions came into force in March 2020, the numbers of buprenorphine, amphetamine and cannabis findings increased. The increase was most noticeable for amphetamine and was evident in all age groups. Our findings indicate that the assumptions on the increased risk of drug‐related harm (including death) have become reality. Reduced access to harm‐reduction services seems to have increased the mortality among individuals that use buprenorphine, amphetamine or cannabis. Significant and prompt actions need to be taken in order to find new ways in helping this vulnerable group of people.
Evaluating natural experiments in ecology: using synthetic controls in assessments of remotely sensed land treatments
Authors: Fick Stephen E. , Nauman Travis W. , Brungard Colby C. , Duniway Michael C.
Published: November 2020

Many important ecological phenomena occur on large spatial scales and/or are unplanned and thus do not easily fit within analytical frameworks that rely on randomization, replication, and interspersed a priori controls for statistical comparison. Analyses of such large‐scale, natural experiments are common in the health and econometrics literature, where techniques have been developed to derive insight from large, noisy observational data sets. Here, we apply a technique from this literature, synthetic control, to assess landscape change with remote sensing data. The basic data requirements for synthetic control include (1) a discrete set of treated and untreated units, (2) a known date of treatment intervention, and (3) time series response data that include both pre‐ and post‐treatment outcomes for all units. Synthetic control generates a response metric for treated units relative to a no‐action alternative based on prior relationships between treated and unexposed groups. Using simulations and a case study involving a large‐scale brush‐clearing management event, we show how synthetic control can intuitively infer treatment effect sizes from satellite data, even in the presence of confounding noise from climate anomalies, long‐term vegetation dynamics, or sensor errors. We find that accuracy depends on the number and quality of potential control units, highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate control populations. Although we consider the synthetic control approach in the context of natural experiments with remote sensing data, we expect the methodology to have wider utility in ecology, particularly for systems with large, complex, and poorly replicated experimental units.
Online but not remote: Adapting field‐based ecology laboratories for online learning
Authors: Richter Christoph F. , Lortie Christopher J. , Kelly Tamara L. , Filazzola Alessandro , Nunes Krystal A. , Sarkar Raani
Published: November 2020

Teaching ecology effectively and experientially has become more challenging for at least two reasons today. Most experiences of our students are urban, and we now face the near immediate and continuing need to deliver courses (either partially or wholly) online because of COVID‐19. Therefore, providing a learning experience that connects students to their environment within an ecological framework remains crucial and perhaps therapeutic to mental health. Here, we describe how prior to the pandemic we adapted our field‐based laboratories to include data collection, analysis, and interpretation, along with the development of a citizen‐science approach for online delivery. This design is simple to implement, does not require extensive work, and maintains the veracity of original learning outcomes. Collaboration online following field data collection in ecology courses within the context of cities offers further options to adapt to student experience levels, resource availability, and accessibility, as well as bringing instructors and students together to build an open well‐curated data set that can be used in ecology courses where no laboratories are available. Finally, it promotes an open collaboration among ecology instructors that can drive lasting conversations about ecology curriculum.
Progress towards a holistic land and marine surface meteorological database and a call for additional contributions
Authors: Noone Simon , Atkinson Chris , Berry David I. , Dunn Robert J. H. , Freeman Eric , Perez Gonzalez Irene , Kennedy John J. , Kent Elizabeth C. , Kettle Anthony , McNeill Shelley , Menne Matthew , Stephens Ag , Thorne Peter W. , Tucker William , Voces Corinne , Willett Kate M.
Published: November 2020

This paper outlines progress of the Copernicus Climate Change Service's (C3S) Global Land and Marine Observations Database service in securing data sources and introduces the data upload component. We present details of land and marine data holdings inventoried, highlighting priority needs in terms of periods, regions and Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) where additional data could bring most benefit. These holdings are being iteratively merged and integrated to best meet user needs and are served to the user via the Copernicus Climate Data Store (CDS). The secure Data Upload Server enables any data provider to share additional data and metadata with the service. We outline the process for registering as a data provider and how data sets are prioritized for integration. We encourage all data owners to share their data with the C3S service via our Data Upload Server. All unique and relevant data acquired or submitted will be also archived at the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information World Data Center for Meteorology, Asheville, North Carolina, USA and used in their database curation efforts which are being jointly developed.
Association between self‐reported night sleep duration and cognitive function among older adults with intact global cognition
Authors: Kondo Risa , Miyano Ichiro , Lee Sangyoon , Shimada Hiroyuki , Kitaoka Hiroaki
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to clarify the association between self‐reported night sleep duration and cognitive functions such as word memory, story memory, attention, executive function, and processing speed of older adults with normal global cognitive function.

Methods

A total of 241 functionally independent older adults (mean age, 75.5 ± 6.4 years) participated in this study. No participants had a history of dementia diagnosis, and each had a Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24. Participants were evaluated for self‐reported sleep duration and cognitive function using the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology‐Functional Assessment Tool (NCGG‐FAT).

Results

The longest sleep duration group (≥9 h) had lower MMSE scores (p = 0.010), Z‐score of word list memory II (delayed recall; p = 0.001), and Z‐score of story memory II (delayed recognition; p = 0.002) than the medium sleep duration group (7–8 h). Longest and long sleep duration (8–9 h) was significantly associated with impairment of story memory II (longest sleep duration: adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 3.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.13–11.37, long sleep duration: adjusted OR = 4.30, 95% CI = 1.34–13.82) with reference to medium sleep duration, but no impairment of MMSE according to multiple logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, short sleep duration (<7 h) was not associated with cognitive impairment.

Conclusions

This study suggests that long sleep duration is associated with cognitive impairment, especially of story memory (delayed recognition) in older adults with normal global cognitive function.
Programmed Death Ligand 1 Is Overexpressed in Liver Macrophages in Chronic Liver Diseases, and Its Blockade Improves the Antibacterial Activity Against Infections
Authors: Pose Elisa , Coll Mar , Martínez‐Sánchez Celia , Zeng Zhutian , Surewaard Bas G. J. , Català Cristina , Velasco‐de Andrés María , Lozano Juan José , Ariño Sílvia , Fuster David , Niñerola‐Bazán Aida , Graupera Isabel , Muñoz Érica , Lozano Francisco , Sancho‐Bru Pau , Kubes Paul , Ginès Pere
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

Bacterial infections are common and severe in cirrhosis, but their pathogenesis is poorly understood. Dysfunction of liver macrophages may play a role, but information about their function in cirrhosis is limited. Our aims were to investigate the specific profile and function of liver macrophages in cirrhosis and their contribution to infections. Macrophages from human cirrhotic livers were characterized phenotypically by transcriptome analysis and flow cytometry; function was assessed in vivo by single photon emission computerized tomography in patients with cirrhosis. Serum levels of specific proteins and expression in peripheral monocytes were determined by ELISA and flow cytometry. In vivo phagocytic activity of liver macrophages was measured by spinning disk intravital microscopy in a mouse model of chronic liver injury.

Approach and Results

Liver macrophages from patients with cirrhosis overexpressed proteins related to immune exhaustion, such as programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1), macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO), and CD163. In vivo phagocytic activity of liver macrophages in patients with cirrhosis was markedly impaired. Monocytes from patients with cirrhosis showed overexpression of PD‐L1 that paralleled disease severity, correlated with its serum levels, and was associated with increased risk of infections. Blockade of PD‐L1 with anti‐PD‐L1 antibody caused a shift in macrophage phenotype toward a less immunosuppressive profile, restored liver macrophage in vivo phagocytic activity, and reduced bacterial dissemination.

Conclusion

Liver cirrhosis is characterized by a remarkable impairment of phagocytic function of macrophages associated with an immunosuppressive transcriptome profile. The programmed cell death receptor 1/PD‐L1 axis plays a major role in the impaired activity of liver macrophages. PD‐L1 blockade reverses the immune suppressive profile and increases antimicrobial activity of liver macrophages in cirrhosis.
Bleeding Outcomes Following Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients With Cirrhosis and Esophageal Varices
Authors: Sack Jordan S. , Li Michael , Zucker Stephen D.
Published: November 2020

Despite scant evidence, current guidelines indicate that esophageal varices are a relative contraindication to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The aim of this study is to compare the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding following TEE among cirrhotic patients with and without endoscopically-documented esophageal varices. This is a retrospective analysis of patients with cirrhosis who underwent upper endoscopy within 4 years of TEE at five institutions between January 2000 and March 2020. Primary outcome was overt gastrointestinal bleeding. Secondary outcomes were hemoglobin decline by at least 2 g/dL or blood transfusion within 48 hours following TEE. Of the 191 patients, 79 (41.4%) had esophageal varices (30.4% large). No patient experienced a primary outcome. Secondary outcomes occurred in 52 (27.2%): 28 (35.4%) with esophageal varices and 24 (21.4%) without varices. After propensity-score covariate adjustment, the odds ratio for a secondary outcome in patients with esophageal varices was 1.49 (95% confidence interval 0.74-2.99). Restricting analysis to those who underwent endoscopy within 1 year of TEE did not significantly alter results. The risk of a secondary outcome was identical between patients who had upper endoscopy prior (27.5%) versus subsequent (26.7%; P = 1.00) to TEE. Conclusions: Among patients with cirrhosis, there was no overt gastrointestinal bleeding after TEE. The likelihood of a 2 g/dL decline in hemoglobin or blood transfusion within 48 hours following TEE was not significantly higher in patients with esophageal varices after controlling for confounders. Patients who underwent upper endoscopy before TEE did not manifest a lower risk of secondary outcomes versus those who had endoscopy after TEE, suggesting that routine preprocedural endoscopy is of marginal utility.
Distribution of clay‐sized sediments in streambeds and influence of fine sediment clogging on hyporheic exchange
Authors: Shrivastava Shivansh , Stewardson Michael J. , Arora Meenakshi
Published: November 2020

In this work, the deposition of clay‐sized fine particles (d50 = 0.006 mm) and its subsequent influence on the dune‐induced hyporheic exchange are investigated. Fine sand (D50 = 0.28 mm), coarse sand (D50 = 1.7 mm), and gravel (D50 = 5.5 mm) grains were used to form homogenous model streambeds; one control ‐ no clay input, and two treatments ‐ increasing clay inputs for each grain type. The results indicate that the clogging profiles of clay‐sized sediments may not be predicted accurately using the previously proposed metric based on the relative sizes of infiltrating and substrate sediments. Further, the depositional patterns vary with the initial concentration of clay particles in the surface water. The assessment of clogging profiles in coarse‐grained model streambeds also reveals a preferential infiltration of the clay particles in the hyporheic downwelling regions. The results from the dye tracer test suggest that the accumulation of clay particles altered the exchange characteristics in the treatment flumes. For each grain size, the treatment flumes exhibit lower hyporheic flux and higher median residence times compared to their respective control flumes. The dye penetration depths were lower in treatment flumes with fine and coarse sand compared to their respective control flumes. Interestingly, higher penetration depths were observed in treatment flumes with gravel compared to their respective control flume potentially due to the generation of preferential flow paths in the partially clogged gravel beds. The clogging altered the hyporheic fluxes and residence times in the coarse‐grained model beds to a greater degree in comparison to the fine sand beds. Overall, our findings indicate that the properties of both fine and substrate sediments influence the clogging patterns in streambeds, and the subsequent influence of fine sediment clogging on hyporheic exchange and associated processes may vary across stream ecosystems.
Did China‐Pakistan free trade agreement promote trade and development in Pakistan?
Authors: Shah Syed H. , Kamal Muhammad A. , Yu Da L.
Published: November 2020

China‐Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA) increased trade between China and Pakistan, however, it also swelled Pakistan trade deficit with China. The empirical findings of this paper suggest that CPFTA positively contribute to Pakistan exports to China and her imports from China but the increase in Pakistan imports was far greater than Pakistan exports after CPFTA. Resultantly, Pakistan's trade deficit with China increased and Pakistan's growth hampered. Constant market share analysis suggests that a better understanding of the Chinese market, efficient utilization of tariff lines and focus on products of the comparative edge are important for Pakistan to benefit from CPFTA. Otherwise, CPFTA is counterproductive for Pakistan.
Prehospital emergency obstetric and neonatal care train‐the‐trainers program in Rwanda
Authors: Rosenberg Ashley , Williams Kenneth , Nyinawankusi Jeanne D’Arc , Asay Basil , Wolfe Luke , Ntirushwa David , Ndikuryayo Emmanuel , Ritter Amanda , Uwitonze Jean Marie , Kabagema Ignace , Dushime Theophile , Jayaraman Sudha
Published: November 2020

Objective

To improve maternal mortality rates, our collaboration developed and implemented a context‐specific, prehospital Emergency Obstetrics and Neonatal Course (EONC) and train‐the‐trainers program in Rwanda.

Methods

Two cohorts of staff participated in the program—the SAMU emergency medical service and staff from district hospitals. A 2‐day course was developed, consisting of skills stations, simulations, and didactics. A 50‐question assessment was administered to both cohorts before and after the courses. Student's t test and matched paired t tests were used to evaluate the assessments through retrospective analysis of the data.

Results

EONC1 median scores were 60% versus 92% (pre vs post), using matched‐pair analysis of 20 participants. EONC2 median scores were 52% versus 96% (pre vs post), using matched‐pair analysis of participants. A one‐way analysis of variance mean square analysis showed that regardless of the baseline level of training for each participant, all trainees reached similar post‐course assessment scores (F(1) = 8.35, P = 0.0059).

Conclusion

Optimal prehospital management of obstetric emergencies is essential to prevent needless mortality and morbidity. This study demonstrated that a context‐appropriate prehospital obstetric and neonatal training program could be effectively developed and implemented for the SAMU team in Kigali, Rwanda.
Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) in cancer; with an extensive focus on TLR agonists and antagonists
Authors: Keshavarz Ali , Pourbagheri‐Sigaroodi Atieh , Zafari Parisa , Bagheri Nader , Ghaffari Seyed H. , Bashash Davood
Published: November 2020

At the forefront of the battle against pathogens or any endogenously released molecules, toll‐like receptors (TLRs) play an important role as the most noble pattern recognition receptors. The ability of these receptors in distinguishing “self” and “non‐self” antigens is a cornerstone in the innate immunity system; however, misregulation links inflammatory responses to the development of human cancers. It has been known for some time that aberrant expression and regulation of TLRs not only endows cancer cells an opportunity to escape from the immune system but also supports them through enhancing proliferation and angiogenesis. Over the past decades, cancer research studies have witnessed a number of preclinical and clinical breakthroughs in the field of TLR modulators and some of the agents have exceptionally performed well in advanced clinical trials. In the present review, we have provided a comprehensive review of different TLR agonists and antagonists and discuss their limitations, toxicities, and challenges to outline their future incorporation in cancer treatment strategies.
Tuberculosis comorbidity with rheumatoid arthritis: Gene signatures, associated biomarkers, and screening
Authors: Zafari Parisa , Golpour Monireh , Hafezi Nasim , Bashash Davood , Esmaeili Seyed‐Alireza , Tavakolinia Naeimeh , Rafiei Alireza
Published: November 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is known to be related to an elevated risk of infections because of its pathobiology and the use of immunosuppressive therapies. Reactivation of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection is a serious issue in patients with RA, especially after receiving anti‐TNFs therapy. TNF blocking reinforces the TB granuloma formation and maintenance and the growth ofMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb). After intercurrent of TB infection, the standard recommendation is that the treatment with TNF inhibitors to be withheld despite its impressive effect on suppression of inflammation until the infection has resolved. Knowing pathways and mechanisms that are common between two diseases might help to find the mechanistic basis of this comorbidity, as well as provide us a new approach to apply them as therapeutic targets or diagnostic biomarkers. Also, screening for latent TB before initiation of an anti‐TNF therapy can minimize complications. This review summarizes the shared gene signature between TB and RA and discusses the biomarkers for early detection of this infection, and screening procedures as well.
Circ_0109046 promotes the malignancy of endometrial carcinoma cells through the microRNA‐105/SOX9/Wnt/β‐catenin axis
Authors: Li Yanyan , Liu Jinyu , Piao Jinxia , Ou Jian , Zhu Xiaoyan
Published: November 2020

Emerging evidence suggests the important involvements of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in cancer progression. This study focuses on the function of Circ_0109046 on the malignancy of endometrial carcinoma (EC) cells and the molecules involved. First, high expression of Circ_0109046 was found in EC tissues compared to the adjacent tissues, and it predicted unfavorable prognosis in patients. Similarly, high expression of Circ_0109046 was confirmed in EC cells relative to that in normal endometrial epithelial cells. Silencing of Circ_0109046 in AN3‐CA cells inhibited proliferation and aggressiveness but increased apoptosis of cells. Circ_0109046 was mainly sub‐localized in cytoplasm, and it mediated SOX9 expression through sponging microRNA (miR)‐105. The proliferation and aggressiveness of EC cells suppressed by Circ_0109046 downregulation was recovered upon SOX9 overexpression. SOX9 activated the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Furthermore, downregulation of Circ_0109046 reduced the growth of xenograft tumors in nude mice. This study evidenced that Circ_0109046 upregulates SOX9 expression through sponging miR105, leading to activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling and the malignant growth of EC. This study may offer novel understanding in EC treatment.
Evolution of raw meat polarization‐based properties by means of Mueller matrix imaging
Authors: Peyvasteh Motahareh , Popov Alexey , Bykov Alexander , Pierangelo Angelo , Novikova Tatiana , Meglinski Igor
Published: November 2020

The possibilities of using Mueller matrix (MM) imaging polarimetry to assess meat quality have not yet been sufficiently explored. In the current study, the fresh porcine muscles are imaged at room temperature with a wide‐field MM imaging polarimeter over 26 hours to visualize dynamics of tissue optical properties through applying Lu‐Chipman decomposition. The frequency distribution histograms (FDHs) and statistical analysis of the MM elements show prominent changes over time. The wavelength spectra of both total depolarization and scalar retardance have dips at 550 nm whereas their values continuously increase with time; the former is referred to the increase of number of scattering events and decrease of myoglobin absorption in the red part of visible spectra related to meat color and freshness, while the latter is associated with the increase in birefringence and meat tenderness. The obtained results are promising to develop a novel fast noncontact optical technique for monitoring of meat quality.
Thermochemical stabilities of giant fullerenes using density functional tight binding theory and isodesmic‐type reactions
Authors: Waite Simone L. , Karton Amir , Chan Bun , Page Alister J.
Published: November 2020

We present a systematic assessment of the density functional tight binding (DFTB) method for calculating heats of formation of fullerenes with isodesmic‐type reaction schemes. We show that DFTB3‐D/3ob can accurately predict ΔfH values of the 1812 structural isomers of C60, reproduce subtle trends in ΔfH values for 24 isolated pentagon rule (IPR) isomers of C84, and predict ΔfH values of giant fullerenes that are in effectively exact agreement with benchmark DSD‐PBEP86/def2‐QZVPP calculations. For fullerenes up to C320, DFTB ΔfH values are within 1.0 kJ mol−1 of DSD‐PBEP86/def2‐QZVPP values per carbon atom, and on a per carbon atom basis DFTB3‐D/3ob yields exactly the same numerical trend of (ΔfH [per carbon] = 722n−0.72 + 5.2 kJ mol−1). DFTB3‐D/3ob is therefore an accurate replacement for high‐level DHDFT and composite thermochemical methods in predicting of thermochemical stabilities of giant fullerenes and analogous nanocarbon architectures.
The long non‐coding RNA PCAL7 promotes prostate cancer by strengthening androgen receptor signaling
Authors: Li Zhihui , Teng Jingfei , Jia Zhuomin , Zhang Guohui , Ai Xing
Published: November 2020

Background

The prostate cancer (PCa) has been a global problem to men health. Notably, the androgen receptor (AR) is essential for both normal development of prostate and prostate cancer progression.

Methods

The RNA sequencing was used to identify the novel long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) termed PCAL7. The RT‐qPCR was performed to quantify PCAL7 expression. Migration and proliferation assays were used to examine the function of PCAL7. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to determine subcellular localization.

Results

By RNA sequencing, the differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified (top 10 upregulated lncRNAs: PCAL7, AC083843.1, CTC‐338M12.3, RP11‐443B7.1, RP11‐1008C21.2, RN7SL329P, RP4‐773N10.4, RP11‐264B17.2, KB‐1507C5.2, and RP11‐20B24.6; top 10 downregulated lncRNAs: RP11‐77H9.2, RAB11FIP1P1, AP001625.6, CTA‐217C2.1, RP11‐603J24.7, RP11‐315I20.1, AC092839.1, RP4‐758J18.10, RP11‐259O2.3, and HMGN2P17). PCAL7 was the lncRNA with the highest fold upregulation and significantly correlated with AR signaling during prostate cancer progression. The AR‐regulated PCAL7 was abundantly overexpressed in prostate cancer tissues and AR‐dependent cell lines. PCAL7 knockdown inhibited cell migration and proliferation. Consistently, the migration and proliferation were promoted by PCAL7 overexpression. PCAL7 depletion via antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) markedly suppressed AR signaling and tumor growth. Mechanistically, PCAL7 interacted with Huntingtin‐interacting protein 1 (HIP1) to stabilize HIP1. Therefore, PCAL7 could advance AR signaling via a novel positive feedback loop.

Conclusion

Our experiments support an oncogenic role for PCAL7 which promotes prostate cancer progression suggesting PCAL7 may serve as a potential therapeutic target.