bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional and 3‐Tesla MRI morphometry of knee meniscus in normal and pathologic state
Authors: Kayfan Samar , Hlis Rocco , Pezeshk Parham , Shah Jay , Poh Feng , McCrum Christopher , Chhabra Avneesh
Published: September 2020

Introduction

To conduct a morphometric analysis of intact and torn menisci using isotropic meniscus plane three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructions on 3‐Tesla MRI and compare 2D versus 3D MRI for meniscus tear characterization.

Materials and methods

One hundred thirty three normal menisci from 92 patients (39 male, 53 female), and 38 arthroscopy‐proven torn menisci from 36 patients (23 male, 13 female) were evaluated using 3D isotropic multi‐planar MRI reconstructions and 2D MRI. Two observers measured the tibial plateau height and area, meniscal height, axial plane cross‐sectional areas, and extrusion of intact menisci. Two observers also measured the meniscal tear length, tear area, and residual area of pathological menisci on 2D and 3D MRI. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were obtained. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained, and the informed consent was waived.

Results

Medial meniscus (MM) and lateral meniscus (LM) areas were 503.6 ± 85.1 mm2 and 396.6 ± 72.0 mm2 for Observer 1, and 515.8 ± 82.1 mm2 and 408.0 ± 68.3 mm2 for Observer 2 (ICC:0.86, 0.87). In torn menisci, average tear length, area, and residual area were 36.3 ± 13.6 mm, 182.6 ± 139.3 mm2, and 235.4 ± 140.3 mm2, respectively for Observer 1, and 38.9 ± 14.7 mm, 181.2 ± 135.6 mm2, 238.2 ± 140.5 mm2 for Observer 2. In the MM and LM, bucket‐handle and complex tears were largest in areas, respectively. ICCs were excellent (0.91–1.0) on 3D MRI and moderate‐good (0.57–0.81) on 2D MRI.

Conclusion

Meniscus morphometry on 3D MRI shows moderate to excellent inter‐observer reliability and meniscus tear extent is more reliably defined on 3D MRI than 2D MRI. Residual meniscus‐area calculation can be performed on 3D MRI.
Germline mutational profile of Chinese patients under 70 years old with colorectal cancer
Authors: Jiang Teng‐Jia , Wang Fang , Wang Ying‐Nan , Hu Jia‐Jia , Ding Pei‐Rong , Lin Jun‐Zhong , Pan Zhi‐Zhong , Chen Gong , Shao Jian‐Yong , Xu Rui‐hua , Zhao Qi , Wang Feng
Published: September 2020

Background

Inherited susceptibility accounts for nearly one‐third of colorectal cancer (CRC) predispositions and has an 80%‐100% lifetime risk of this disease. However, there are few data about germline mutations of hereditary CRC‐related genes in Chinese patients with CRC. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of gene mutations related to cancer susceptibility among Chinese patients with CRC, differences between Chinese and Western patients, and the phenotype‐genotype correlation.

Methods

We retrospectively collected tumor samples from 526 patients with CRC under 70 years old who underwent hereditary CRC genetic testing. A series of bioinformatic analyses, as well as statistical comparisons, were performed.

Results

We found that 77 patients (14.6%) harbored functional variants of the 12 genes. The mutation frequencies of the top 5 mutated genes were 6.5% for MutL homolog 1 (MLH1), 5.1% for MutS homolog 2 (MSH2), 1.0% for MSH6, 0.8% for PMS1 homolog 2 (PMS2), and 0.8% for APC regulator of the WNT signaling pathway (APC). Our data showed much higher rates of mutations of MSH6 and PMS2 genes among all mismatch repair (MMR) genes as compared with those in Western populations. Mutations in MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 were found to be mutually exclusive. Patients with MLH1 or MSH2 mutations had higher frequencies of personal history of cancer (MLH1: 20.6% vs. 8.7%; MSH2: 25.9% vs. 8.6%) and family history of cancer than those without these mutations (MLH1: 73.5% vs. 48.4%; MSH2: 70.4% vs. 48.9%), and the lesions were more prone to occur on the right side of the colon than on the left side (MLH1: 73.5% vs. 29.3%; MSH2: 56.0% vs. 31.0%). The proportion of stage I/II disease was higher in patients with MLH1 mutations than in those without MLH1 mutations (70.6% vs. 50.7%), and the rate of polyps was higher in patients with APC mutations than in those with wild‐type APC (75.0% vs. 17.4%).

Conclusion

These results provide a full‐scale landscape of hereditary susceptibility over 12 related genes in CRC patients and suggest that a comprehensive multi‐gene panel testing for hereditary CRC predisposition could be a helpful analysis in clinical practice.
Sarcopenia and adverse health‐related outcomes: An umbrella review of meta‐analyses of observational studies
Authors: Xia Lin , Zhao Rui , Wan Qianyi , Wu Yutao , Zhou Yong , Wang Yong , Cui Yaping , Shen Xiaoding , Wu Xiaoting
Published: September 2020

Objective

The purpose of this umbrella review was to assess the associations between sarcopenia and adverse health‐related outcomes.

Design

An umbrella review of meta‐analyses of observational studies.

Setting and Participants

Patients with sarcopenia and controls without sarcopenia were included.

Measures

The PubMed, Web of Science and Embase were searched for relevant systematic review and meta‐analysis. AMSTAR and GRADE system were used for methodological quality and evidence quality assessments, respectively.

Results

Totally 54 outcomes extracted from 30 meta‐analyses were analyzed. Twenty out of 21 prognostic outcomes indicated that sarcopenia was significantly associated with poorer prognosis of gastric cancer, hepatocellular cancer, urothelial cancer, head and neck cancer, hematological malignancy, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and ovarian cancer. Besides, 10 out of 16 postoperative outcomes suggested that sarcopenia significantly increased the risk of multiple postoperative complications and prolonged the length of hospitalization of patients with digestive cancer. In age‐related outcomes, sarcopenia significantly increased the risk of dysphagia, cognitive impairment, fractures, falls, hospitalization, and all‐cause mortality of elderly populations. Moreover, sarcopenia was also associated with higher level of albuminuria, risk of depression, and several metabolic diseases.

Conclusions and Implications

Sarcopenia significantly affected a wide range of adverse health‐related outcomes, particularly in patients of tumor and elderly populations. Because evidences of most outcomes were rated as “low” and “very low,” more prospective cohort studies are required in the future.
Percutaneous mitral valve repair in adults with congenital heart disease: Report of the first case‐series
Authors: Alshawabkeh Laith , Mahmud Ehtisham , Reeves Ryan
Published: September 2020

Background

Systemic atrioventricular valve regurgitation (AVVR) is frequently encountered in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD). Surgical intervention is the mainstay of therapy, but in a specific high‐risk subset, percutaneous valve repair might offer a lower‐risk alternative.

Methods

Three patients with complex CHD and severe symptomatic AVVR underwent percutaneous mitral valve repair at a single center. All were deemed to be high‐risk for surgery by a multidisciplinary CHD team and provided informed consent for the compassionate use of the MitraClip (Abbott, Santa Clara, CA). Three‐dimensional heart models were generated for the procedure, which was performed by an adult CHD cardiologist (who provided imaging support) and an interventional cardiologist with expertise in CHD and percutaneous mitral valve repair.

Results

The first case was a 39 year‐old‐woman with [S,L,D] dextrocardia, double outlet right ventricle, mild tricuspid hypoplasia, and a secundum atrial septal defect, who was palliated at age 35 with a right bidirectional Glenn and later developed severe, symptomatic mitral regurgitation, and underwent placement of one MitraClip XTR device. Two patients with L‐loop transposition of the great arteries each successfully underwent placement of two MitraClip XTR devices; one patient had a single‐leaflet detachment of one of the clips with no change in regurgitation or clip position on follow‐up. All patients had significant reduction of AVVR and improvement in NYHA functional class.

Conclusions

Percutaneous atrioventricular valve repair in adults with CHD is feasible with the MitraClip but requires significant preprocedural planning and a multidisciplinary team that combines CHD and interventional therapeutic expertise.
A case report of traumatic ulcerative granuloma with stromal eosinophilia (TUGSE) in a 21‐year‐old
Authors: Hannan Tufayl Ahmed , Umer Muhammed , Syed Labib , Anis‐Alavi Mohamed Areeb
Published: September 2020

We present an unusual case of a persistent solitary left palatoglossal ulcer with no history of trauma or associated risk factors. A TUGSE lesion, which mimics that of malignancy, must always be noted as a differential even in risk factor absence.
Cervical lymphatic malformation demonstrating thyroglobulin on fine needle aspirate washout
Authors: Agnihotri Ashwin , Lilic Nick , Chaplin John , Braadvedt Geoffrey , Bagg Warwick
Published: September 2020

A case report highlighting the importance of cautious interpretation of thyroglobulin washouts in fine needle aspirates when deciding on management of differentiated thyroid cancer, so as to avoid unnecessary surgery.
BK virus‐induced nephritis and cystitis after matched unrelated donor stem cell transplantation: A case report
Authors: Gelbrich Nadine , Stope Matthias B. , Bekeschus Sander , Weigel Martin , Burchardt Martin , Zimmermann Uwe
Published: September 2020

Currently, there is no standard therapy for a BK virus infection of the urogenital tract in immunocompromised, stem cell transplanted patients, so that early diagnosis and introduction of supportive measures have the highest response rates to date.
Recent Progress of CeO2−TiO2 Based Catalysts for Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx by NH3
Authors: Zeng Yiqing , Haw Kok‐Giap , Wang Yanan , Zhang Shule , Wang Zhigang , Zhong Qin , Kawi Sibudjing
Published: September 2020

Selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 (NH3−SCR) is one of the widely used process to abate NOx emission from both stationary and mobile sources. Recently, CeO2−TiO2 based NH3−SCR catalysts due to their excellent medium and high temperature activities, high N2 selectivity and environmentally friendly, have attracted much attention as great candidate to replace the commercial VOx−TiO2 based NH3−SCR catalysts. During the past years, extensive works have been done to achieve the industrial commercialization of CeO2−TiO2 based NH3−SCR catalyst. In this review, we summarize the recent studies on the mechanism, deactivation, preparation and modification of CeO2−TiO2 catalyst. The focus of this review is the modification strategies on improving the catalytic performance of CeO2−TiO2 catalyst. By comparing the effect of different modification strategies on the catalytic performance of CeO2−TiO2 catalyst, the perspectives and challenges of CeO2−TiO2 based catalyst for NH3−SCR of NOx are discussed.
Amorphous‐crystalline Co−B−P Catalyst for Synergistically Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Bao Xinghong , Li Yuting , Wang Juan , Zhong Qin
Published: September 2020

The development of highly practical and stable catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) remains challenging to accomplish continuous H2 production through water electrolysis. In this work, the porous network Co−B−P amorphous‐crystalline catalyst was synthesized through a hydrothermal‐alternating immersion boronization‐phosphidation pathway. The Co−B−P nanocomposite consists of the amorphous Co−B−O and crystalline Co2P2O7 compositions. The Co−B−P catalyst shows highly effective HER electrochemical performance with low overpotential of 51 mV at current density of 10 mA cm−2 and Tafel slope of 44 mV dec−1 in alkaline solution (pH=14). After 1000 cycles of CV scanning, the catalyst shows no significant reduction in HER performance. Such superior HER performance can be ascribed to (1) the amorphous Co−B−O structure accelerating charge transfer between active sites and intermediates and (2) the formed P−O bonds of crystalline Co2P2O7 promoting the dissociation course of water molecules. The combination of crystalline and amorphous substances provides prospects for the design of HER catalyst structures in the future.
Ethanol to Aromatics on Modified H‐ZSM‐5 Part I: Interdependent Dealumination Actions
Authors: Seifert Markus , Marschall Mathias S. , Gille Torsten , Jonscher Clemens , Busse Oliver , Paasch Silvia , Brunner Eike , Reschetilowski Wladimir , Weigand Jan J.
Published: September 2020

In this study a H‐ZSM‐5 zeolite (Si/Al=11) was modified by a stepwise treatment with steam, sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. During progressing dealumination by various treatment methods, the drawbacks of initial post‐synthetic steps, e. g. pore‐filling by steam dealumination, are compensated by subsequent steps, e. g. washing by acid, which leads to a scientifically based preparation of required ZSM‐5 zeolite. Solid‐state properties of as‐synthesized and modified zeolites are determined by structural (XRD, ICP‐OES, NMR), textural (physisorption, laser scattering) and acid sites analysis (TPAD). Consequently, extended dealumination without structural damage is demonstrated. Its origin by framework dealumination and pore cleaning is verified in ethanol to hydrocarbon process (ETH) by shape‐selective formation of coke and aromatics, characterized by “aromatics index” (AI).
CO Oxidation on Ceria Studied by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Vendrell Xavier , Kubyshin Yuri , Mestres Lourdes , Llorca Jordi
Published: September 2020

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique has been widely used to analyze the electrical properties of a large number of materials. In this study, the electrical properties of CeO2 pellets under CO oxidation conditions have been analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. CeO2 pellets have been prepared by a conventional precipitation method and sintered at low temperature to satisfy a compromise between large surface area and a high relative density of the pellet. The electrical properties of CeO2 have been investigated under different atmosphere conditions such as N2, O2, CO, CO2, or selected combinations. The electrical sensitivity of CeO2 to the surrounding atmosphere allows to follow the catalytic reaction as a function of the CO : O2 ratio and temperature. The appropriate analysis of the electrical response by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy could open a new insight to monitor the catalytic response and behavior of any catalyst.
Eco‐efficient Separation of Mono‐ and Dichloroacetic Acid by Thermally Coupled Extractive Distillation
Authors: Chandra Amit K. , Patraşcu Iulian , Bîldea Costin Sorin , Kiss Anton A.
Published: September 2020

Due to its high reactivity, monochloroacetic acid (MCA) is an essential intermediate used in the manufacturing of a wide variety of chemicals. Its industrial production process is highly energy‐ and capital‐intensive, requiring costly purification steps to remove dichloroacetic acid (DCA) impurities. Here, an innovative eco‐efficient process for MCA‐DCA separation is proposed based on extractive distillation in a fully thermally coupled system (a dividing‐wall column (DWC) or an equivalent side‐rectifier configuration) using a new effective solvent: diethylene glycol dipentylether. The design was optimized by performing sensitivity analyses and varying key operating and design parameters. The study proves that separating MCA‐DCA by an extractive DWC (or thermally coupled) is feasible, efficient, controllable, economic, and sustainable.
A heat‐transfer model for tube fouling in the radiant section of once‐through steam generators
Authors: Herman Steven D. , Mehrotra Anil K.
Published: September 2020

Once‐through steam generators (OTSGs) produce steam by recycling produced water in the steam‐assisted‐gravity‐drainage (SAGD) process for extracting Alberta's oil sands via in situ recovery of bitumen. The industry's specifications for water quality, steam quality, and water recycle ratio, as well as high temperature and pressure operations, lead to the fouling of OTSG tubes, which has important economic, safety, and environmental consequences. The roles and mechanisms of inorganic and organic impurities on tube fouling also complicate the study of heat transfer in OTSGs. Heat transfer in OTSGs involves radiation, convection, conduction, forced convection, and boiling. In this investigation on OTSG fouling, a steady‐state mathematical model was built in Microsoft Excel, incorporating industry design data, to demonstrate the impact of tube fouling on heat transfer and tube‐wall temperature. The model predictions indicate that tube fouling introduces a significant thermal resistance that not only decreases the rate of heat transfer but also causes an increase in the tube‐wall temperature such that it could exceed the safe operating limits of the tube material, leading to potential tube failures. Predictions are provided for the average tube‐wall temperature exceeding the recommended operating limit of 700 K over a range of foulant thermal conductivity (ie, 0.05‐2 W m−1 K−1) and foulant thickness (ie, 0.4‐11 mm corresponding to 0.1%‐30% of the tube radius).
Modular Total Synthesis of (–)‐Palmyrolide A and (+)‐(5S,7S)‐Palmyrolide A via Ring‐Closing Metathesis and Alkene Isomerization†
Authors: Lai Yecai , Dai Wei‐Min
Published: September 2020

A pentamodule assembly approach has been established for total synthesis of the naturally occurring (–)‐palmyrolide A and (+)‐5,7‐epi‐palmyrolide A. By using the racemic tert‐butyl carbinol‐containing alkyl iodide, the two diastereoisomeric macrolides could be obtained from the same sequence of reactions, demonstrating the flexibility of the multimodule assembly strategy for diverted total synthesis.
Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of σ2 Receptor Ligands Based on a 3‐Alkoxyisoxazole Scaffold: Potential Antitumor Effects against Osteosarcoma
Authors: Shi Jun‐Jie , Jia Kun‐Hang , Sun Hao , Gunosewoyo Hendra , Yang Fan , Tang Jie , Luo Jian , Yu Li‐Fang
Published: September 2020

Since its initial discovery as the basis for nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands, the 3‐alkoxyisoxazole scaffold has been shown to be a versatile platform for the development of potent σ1 and σ2 receptor ligands. Herein we report a further SAR exploration of the 3‐alkoxyisoxazole scaffold with the aim of obtaining potent σ2 receptor ligands. Various substitutions on the benzene ring and at the basic amino regions resulted in a total of 21 compounds that were tested for their binding affinities for the σ2 receptor. In particular, compound 51 [(2S)‐1‐(4‐ammoniobutyl)‐2‐(((5‐((3,4‐dichlorophenoxy)methyl)isoxazol‐3‐yl)oxy)methyl)pyrrolidin‐1‐ium chloride] was identified as one of the most potent σ2 ligands within the series, with a Ki value of 7.9 nM. It demonstrated potent antiproliferative effects on both osteosarcoma cell lines 143B and MOS−J (IC50 values of 0.89 and 0.71 μM, respectively), relative to siramesine (IC50 values of 1.81 and 2.01 μM). Moreover, compound 51 inhibited clonal formation of osteosarcoma 143B cells at 1 μM, corresponding to half the dose required of siramesine for similar effects. The general cytotoxicity profile of compound 51 was assessed in a number of normal cell lines, including HaCaT, HAF, and LO2 cells. Furthermore, FACS analysis showed that compound 51 likely inhibits osteosarcoma cell growth by disruption of the cell cycle and promotion of apoptosis.
Further SAR on the (Phenylsulfonyl)piperazine Scaffold as Inhibitors of the Aedes aegypti Kir1 (AeKir) Channel and Larvicides
Authors: Aretz Christopher D. , Kharade Sujay V. , Chronister Keagan , Rusconi Trigueros Renata , Martinez Rodriguez Erick J. , Piermarini Peter M. , Denton Jerod S. , Hopkins Corey R.
Published: September 2020

Zika virus (ZIKV), dengue fever (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) are arboviruses that are spread to humans from the bite of an infected adult female Aedes aegypti mosquito. As there are no effective vaccines or therapeutics for these diseases, the primary strategy for controlling the spread of these viruses is to prevent the mosquito from biting humans through the use of insecticides. Unfortunately, the commonly used classes of insecticides have seen a significant increase in resistance, thus complicating control efforts. Inhibiting the renal inward rectifier potassium (Kir) channel of the mosquito vector Aedes aegypti has been shown to be a promising target for the development of novel mosquitocides. We have shown that Kir1 channels play key roles in mosquito diuresis, hemolymph potassium homeostasis, flight, and reproduction. Previous work from our laboratories identified a novel (phenylsulfonyl)piperazine scaffold as potent AeKir channel inhibitors with activity against both adult and larval mosquitoes. Herein, we report further SAR work around this scaffold and have identified additional compounds with improved in vitro potency and mosquito larvae toxicity.
Color corrected single scale retinex based haze removal and color correction for underwater images
Authors: A Bindhu , O. Uma Maheswari
Published: September 2020

Underwater images are affected by scattering of dust particles leading to hazy images. The difference in absorption of light at different wavelength leads to colorcast. Restoring underwater images from haze and colorcast degradation is a challenging task. This article proposes color corrected single scale retinex algorithm for the restoration of hazy and colorcast underwater images. Further, the illumination of the underwater image is enhanced through illumination enhancer. In order to correct colorcast, the underwater images intensity shifters are proposed. Blur, natural image quality evaluator, blind/referenceless image spatial quality evaluator, entropy, peak signal to noise ratio are the metrics used to evaluate the performance of the proposed restoration technique and compared the output with the existing techniques. Compared to the existing techniques the proposed algorithm prominently removes haze and colorcast present in underwater images. The study excludes retinex‐with‐reset models from consideration.
Customizing intelligent recommendation study with multiple advisors based on hierarchy structured fuzzy‐analytic hierarchy process
Authors: Wan Park Seong , Mesicek Libor , Shin Joohyun , Bae Kitae , An Kyungjin , Ko Hoon
Published: September 2020

Evaluation information generated by various users is processed using various requirements and data to make recommendations for solving the problems, and it analyzes satisfaction with the results. Despite people normally utilizes the processed information for decision making, not all information, however, brings positive outcomes to users. There are some users who perceived it negatively. In order to minimize the occurrence of such negative effects, the analysis of various user requirements is essential as well as diversifying user inputs for each requirement. Consequently, the results from individual inputs must be predicted. In the past, since the system relies on a single‐expert system, it is necessary to accept and process various limitations of recommendation and multiple requirements. Therefore, the results of the recommendation also have various problems. In order to solve this problem, this study applied an analytic hierarchy process to multiadvisor configuration. In the proposed system, one or multiple advisors are defined, and after analyzing the predefined requirements, the system accepts only the requirements that can be processed and calculates the individual recommendation results. A recommendation system was going to be studied by learning all situation.
Borophene: Current Status, Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Hou Chuang , Tai Guoan , Wu Zenghui , Hao Jinqian
Published: September 2020

Borophenes (2D boron sheets) have triggered a surge of interest both theoretically and experimentally because of its distinct structural, optical and electronic properties for extensive potential applications. Although theoretical efforts have guided the research directions of borophene, only few synthetic borophene sheets have been demonstrated experimentally. Borophene sheets have been successfully synthesized experimentally on metal substrates until 2015. Afterwards, more efforts were put on the controlled synthesis of crystalline and semiconducting borophene sheets as well as on the investigation of their novel and fascinating physical properties. This report provides a brief review on theoretical and experimental progress in borophene research. Some typical structures and properties of borophenes have been reviewed. The focus is laid on summarizing the experimental synthesis of borophene in recent years, and on showing some ultrastable and semiconducting borophenes which have been applied in electronic information devices. Finally, the future challenges and opportunities regarding experimental realization and practical applications of borophenes are presented.
Enhanced Performance of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) Based on MoS2/Single‐Walled Carbon Nanohorns Electrochemically Deposited on Bilayer Counter Electrodes
Authors: Gurulakshmi Maddala , Meenakshamma Ambapuram , Susmitha Kalvapalli , Venkata Subbaiah Yerva Pedda , Mitty Raghavender
Published: September 2020

High‐performance bilayer counter electrodes (BCEs) for dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) applications are gaining considerable attention. In this study, MoS2/single‐walled carbon nanohorn (SWCNHs) BCEs were fabricated by ultrasonic‐spray‐assisted electrochemical deposition. The BCEs exhibited superior electrocatalytic activity, confirmed through CV, Tafel plots, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic studies. The fabricated MoS2/SWCNH‐based DSSCs exhibited an impressive photovoltaic power conversion efficiency of 9.48 %, which is higher than the performance of cells with Pt‐containing CEs (8.64 %). The simple and reliable growth strategy for bilayer film CEs provides a new route for the preparation of cost‐effective and high‐performance catalytic BCEs for renewable energy applications involving Pt‐free DSSCs.
Nuclease Degradation Analysis of DNA Nanostructures Using Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Chandrasekaran Arun Richard , Halvorsen Ken
Published: September 2020

Custom‐built DNA nanostructures are now used in applications such as biosensing, molecular computation, biomolecular analysis, and drug delivery. While the functionality and biocompatibility of DNA makes DNA nanostructures useful in such applications, the field faces a challenge in making biostable DNA nanostructures. Being a natural material, DNA is most suited for biological applications, but is also easily degraded by nucleases. Several methods have been employed to study the nuclease degradation rates and enhancement of nuclease resistance. This protocol describes the use of gel electrophoresis to analyze the extent of nuclease degradation of DNA nanostructures and to report degradation times, kinetics of nuclease digestion, and evaluation of biostability enhancement factors. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Timed analysis of nuclease degradation of DNA nanostructures

Support Protocol: Calculating biostability enhancement factors
Efficacy of silicone soft reliner on the obturator prosthesis after maxillectomy for oral malignant tumors: A single‐arm prospective interventional study
Authors: Yanamoto Souichi , Soutome Sakiko , Murata Maho , Kawakita Akiko , Yamaguchi Erika , Yoshida Kazuhiro , Kurogi Tadafumi , Kuroshima Shinichiro , Murata Hiroshi , Sawase Takashi , Umeda Masahiro
Published: September 2020

Background

There is insufficient evidence for the efficacy of silicone soft reliner on the obturator prosthesis after maxillectomy for oral malignant tumors.

Objective

To verify the efficacy of silicone soft reliner on the obturator prosthesis after maxillectomy, by evaluating masticatory performance and quality of life (QoL).

Methods

This was a single‐arm prospective interventional study, verifying the efficacy of silicone soft reliner (GC RELINE II®) on the maxillary obturator prosthesis. Data were obtained from a comparison of the endpoints after 14 days of continuous use of acrylic and silicone soft‐lined prostheses. The primary endpoint was masticatory performance. The secondary endpoints were occlusal performance and oral health‐related QoL (OHRQoL). The masticatory performance, occlusal performance, and OHRQoL were assessed by glucose concentration, maximum bite force, and the Japanese version of Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐J49), respectively.

Results

This study included five patients (two males, three females), aged between 71 and 88 years, with a median of 74 years. The median of glucose concentration indicated a statistically significant improvement between the acrylic resin (99.6 mg/dL) and silicone soft reliner (126.0 mg/dL) obturator prosthesis (p = .043). There was no significant difference in the median of maximum bite force between the acrylic resin (302.0 N) and silicone soft reliner (250.0 N) obturator prosthesis (p = .893). Functional limitations domain of the OHIP‐J49 indicated a statistically significant improvement between the acrylic resin and silicone soft reliner obturator prosthesis (p = .043).

Conclusions

This study indicated that an obturator relined with soft silicone improved masticatory performance and the OHRQoL post‐maxillectomy.
Surface Modification of LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 Particles via Li3PO4 Coating to Enable Aqueous Electrode Processing
Authors: Hofmann Michael , Nagler Felix , Kapuschinski Martina , Guntow Uwe , Giffin Guinevere A.
Published: September 2020

The successful implementation of an aqueous‐based electrode manufacturing process for nickel‐rich cathode active materials is challenging due to their high water sensitivity. In this work, the surface of LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) was modified with a lithium phosphate coating to investigate its ability to protect the active material during electrode production. The results illustrate that the coating amount is crucial and a compromise has to be made between protection during electrode processing and sufficient electronic conductivity through the particle surface. Cells with water‐based electrodes containing NCA with an optimized amount of lithium phosphate had a slightly lower specific discharge capacity than cells with conventional N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone‐based electrodes. Nonetheless, the cells with optimized water‐based electrodes could compete in terms of cycle life.
Human Salmonella Typhi exposure generates differential multifunctional cross‐reactive T‐cell memory responses against Salmonella Paratyphi and invasive nontyphoidal Salmonella
Authors: Rapaka Rekha R , Wahid Rezwanul , Fresnay Stephanie , Booth Jayaum S , Darton Thomas C , Jones Claire , Waddington Claire S , Levine Myron M , Pollard Andrew J , Sztein Marcelo B
Published: September 2020

Objective

There are no vaccines for most of the major invasive Salmonella strains causing severe infection in humans. We evaluated the specificity of adaptive T memory cell responses generated after Salmonella Typhi exposure in humans against other major invasive Salmonella strains sharing capacity for dissemination.

Methods

T memory cells from eleven volunteers who underwent controlled oral challenge with wt S. Typhi were characterised by flow cytometry for cross‐reactive cellular cytokine/chemokine effector responses or evidence of degranulation upon stimulation with autologous B‐lymphoblastoid cells infected with either S. Typhi, Salmonella Paratyphi A (PA), S. Paratyphi B (PB) or an invasive nontyphoidal Salmonella strain of the S. Typhimurium serovar (iNTSTy).

Results

Blood T‐cell effector memory (TEM) responses after exposure to S. Typhi in humans evolve late, peaking weeks after infection in most volunteers. Induced multifunctional CD4+ Th1 and CD8+ TEM cells elicited after S. Typhi challenge were cross‐reactive with PA, PB and iNTSTy. The magnitude of multifunctional CD4+ TEM cell responses to S. Typhi correlated with induction of cross‐reactive multifunctional CD8+ TEM cells against PA, PB and iNTSTy. Highly multifunctional subsets and T central memory and T effector memory cells that re‐express CD45 (TEMRA) demonstrated less heterologous T‐cell cross‐reactivity, and multifunctional Th17 elicited after S. Typhi challenge was not cross‐reactive against other invasive Salmonella.

Conclusion

Gaps in cross‐reactive immune effector functions in human T‐cell memory compartments were highly dependent on invasive Salmonella strain, underscoring the importance of strain‐dependent vaccination in the design of T‐cell‐based vaccines for invasive Salmonella.
Relationship of glycaemic derangement using continuous glucose monitoring system with sleep pattern among children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Salah Nouran Y. , Abido Amal Y. , Rashed Hebatallah R.
Published: September 2020

Background

Glycaemic derangement has been linked to sleep disruption. However, the impact of glycaemic derangement on sleep pattern among children with type 1 diabetes (C‐T1D) remains unraveled.

Aim

To assess the effect of nocturnal hyperglycaemia and clinically significant (CS) hypoglycaemia on sleep pattern among C‐T1D.

Methodology

Thirty C‐T1D were compared to 30 age and sex matched healthy siblings. Patients having other organ disease that might cause sleep disorders or on medications causing sleep disturbance were excluded. History included diabetes‐duration, type and dose of insulin therapy, chronic diabetic‐complications, and manifestations of sleep disorders. Epworth Sleepiness Scale‐Child Adolescent was used. Continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) and overnight polysomnography were done and analysed.

Results

C‐T1D had significantly lower sleep efficiency and significantly higher arousal index (AI), periodic limb movement index and apnoea–hypopnoea index compared to controls. Moreover, they had significantly longer sleep‐onset latency, light sleep percentage, and shorter rapid eye movement percentage than controls. According to nocturnal CGMS readings, 15 C‐T1D had nocturnal hyperglycaemia (50%), six experienced CS hypoglycaemia (20%), two had level‐1 hypoglycaemia (6.7%), and seven were within the normoglycaemic range (23.3%). C‐T1D experiencing nocturnal CS hypoglycaemia had significantly higher stage 3 sleep (P = 0.004) than controls. On the other hand, C‐ T1D experiencing nocturnal hyperglycaemia had significantly higher sleep onset latency (P = 0.013), light sleep percentage (P < 0.001), and AI (P < 0.001) than controls. Nocturnal CS hypoglycaemia was positively correlated to deep sleep duration, while hyperglycaemia was correlated to number of awakenings, sleep‐onset latency, and light sleep duration.

Conclusion

In children with T1D CS hypoglycaemia is associated with sleep deepening, while hyperglycaemia is associated with increased light sleep, sleep onset latency.
Eating disorder fear networks: Identification of central eating disorder fears
Authors: Levinson Cheri A. , Williams Brenna M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Eating‐related fear and anxiety are hallmark symptoms of eating disorders (EDs). However, it is still unclear which fears are most important (e.g., food, weight gain), which has practical implications, given treatments for eating‐related fear necessitate modifications based on the specific fear driving ED pathology. For example, exposure treatments should be optimized based on specific fears that maintain pathology. The current study (N = 1,622 combined clinical ED and undergraduate sample) begins to answer questions on the precise nature of ED fears and how they operate with other ED symptoms.

Method

We used network analysis to create two models of ED fears and symptoms. The first model consisted of ED fears only (e.g., fears of food, fears of weight gain) to identify which fear is most central. The second model consisted of ED fears and ED symptoms to detect how ED fears operate with ED symptoms.

Results

We found fear of disliking how one's body feels due to weight gain, disliking eating in social situations, feeling tense around food, fear of judgment due to weight gain, and food anxiety were the most central ED fears. We also identified several bridge symptoms between ED fears and symptoms. Finally, we found that the most central ED fears predicted excessive exercise at two‐month follow‐up.

Discussion

These data support the idea that consequences (i.e., judgment) associated with fears of weight gain and interoceptive fears are the most central ED fears. These data have implications for the future development of precision interventions targeted to address ED‐related fear.
Degrees of compositional shift in tree communities vary along a gradient of temperature change rates over one decade: Application of an individual‐based temporal beta‐diversity concept
Authors: Nakadai Ryosuke
Published: September 2020

Temporal patterns in communities have gained widespread attention recently, to the extent that temporal changes in community composition are now termed “temporal beta‐diversity.” Previous studies of beta‐diversity have made use of two classes of dissimilarity indices: incidence‐based (e.g., Sørensen and Jaccard dissimilarity) and abundance‐based (e.g., Bray–Curtis and Ružička dissimilarity). However, in the context of temporal beta‐diversity, the persistence of identical individuals and turnover among other individuals within the same species over time have not been considered, despite the fact that both will affect compositional changes in communities. To address this issue, I propose new index concepts for beta‐diversity and the relative speed of compositional shifts in relation to individual turnover based on individual identity information. Individual‐based beta‐diversity indices are novel dissimilarity indices that consider individual identity information to quantitatively evaluate temporal change in individual turnover and community composition. I applied these new indices to individually tracked tree monitoring data in deciduous and evergreen broad‐leaved forests across the Japanese archipelago with the objective of quantifying the effect of climate change trends (i.e., rates of change in both annual mean temperature and annual precipitation) on individual turnover and compositional shifts at each site. A new index explored the relative contributions of mortality and recruitment processes to temporal changes in community composition. Clear patterns emerged showing that an increase in the temperature change rate facilitated the relative contribution of mortality components. The relative speed of compositional shift increased with increasing temperature change rates in deciduous forests but decreased with increasing warming rates in evergreen forests. These new concepts provide a way to identify novel and high‐resolution temporal patterns in communities.
Identifying island safe havens to prevent the extinction of the World’s largest lizard from global warming
Authors: Jones Alice R. , Jessop Tim S. , Ariefiandy Achmad , Brook Barry W. , Brown Stuart C. , Ciofi Claudio , Benu Yunias Jackson , Purwandana Deni , Sitorus Tamen , Wigley Tom M. L. , Fordham Damien A.
Published: September 2020

The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is an endangered, island‐endemic species with a naturally restricted distribution. Despite this, no previous studies have attempted to predict the effects of climate change on this iconic species. We used extensive Komodo dragon monitoring data, climate, and sea‐level change projections to build spatially explicit demographic models for the Komodo dragon. These models project the species’ future range and abundance under multiple climate change scenarios. We ran over one million model simulations with varying model parameters, enabling us to incorporate uncertainty introduced from three main sources: (a) structure of global climate models, (b) choice of greenhouse gas emission trajectories, and (c) estimates of Komodo dragon demographic parameters. Our models predict a reduction in range‐wide Komodo dragon habitat of 8%–87% by 2050, leading to a decrease in habitat patch occupancy of 25%–97% and declines of 27%–99% in abundance across the species' range. We show that the risk of extirpation on the two largest protected islands in Komodo National Park (Rinca and Komodo) was lower than other island populations, providing important safe havens for Komodo dragons under global warming. Given the severity and rate of the predicted changes to Komodo dragon habitat patch occupancy (a proxy for area of occupancy) and abundance, urgent conservation actions are required to avoid risk of extinction. These should, as a priority, be focused on managing habitat on the islands of Komodo and Rinca, reflecting these islands’ status as important refuges for the species in a warming world. Variability in our model projections highlights the importance of accounting for uncertainties in demographic and environmental parameters, structural assumptions of global climate models, and greenhouse gas emission scenarios when simulating species metapopulation dynamics under climate change.
Dying to know: prognosis communication in heart failure
Authors: Cavanagh Casey E. , Rosman Lindsey , Spatz Erica S. , Fried Terri , Gandhi Parul U. , Soucier Richard J. , Burg Matthew M.
Published: September 2020

Prognosis communication in heart failure is often narrowly defined as a discussion of life expectancy, but as clinical guidelines and research suggest, these discussions should provide a broader understanding of the disease, including information about disease trajectory, the experiences of living with heart failure, potential burden on patients and families, and mortality. Furthermore, despite clinical guidelines recommending early discussions, evidence suggests that these discussions occur infrequently or late in the disease trajectory. We review the literature concerning patient, caregiver, and clinician perspectives on discussions of this type, including the frequency, timing, desire for, effects of, and barriers to their occurrence. We propose an alternate view of prognosis communication, in which the patient and family/caregiver are educated about the nature of the disease at the time of diagnosis, and a process of engagement is undertaken so that the patient's full participation in their care is marshalled, and the care team engages the patient in the informed decision making that will guide care throughout the disease trajectory. We also identify and discuss evidence gaps concerning (i) patient preferences and readiness for prognosis information along the trajectory; (ii) best practices for communicating prognosis information; and (iii) effects of prognosis communication on patient's quality of life, mental health, engagement in critical self‐care, and clinical outcomes. Research is needed to determine best practices for engaging patients in prognosis communication and for evaluating the effects of this communication on patient engagement and clinical outcomes.
Palladium and Platinum Complexes Containing Diphenyl‐2‐(3‐methyl)indolylphosphine
Authors: Kuo Yu‐Ying , Da Costa Rosenildo C. , Sparkes Hazel. A. , Haddow Mairi F. , Owen Gareth R.
Published: September 2020

Syntheses and characterisation of group ten complexes containing the ligand diphenyl‐2‐(3‐methyl)indolylphosphine are presented herein. The complexes [trans‐PdCl2{PPh2(C9H8N)}2] (1), [cis‐PtCl2{PPh2(C9H8N)}2] (2), [trans‐Pd(CH3)Cl{PPh2(C9H8N)}2] (3) and [trans‐Pt(CH3)Cl{PPh2(C9H8N)}2] (4) have all been structurally characterized by X‐ray crystallography. In all cases, the ligands coordinate to the metal centres via the phosphorus donor atom (κ1‐P) and the pendent NH groups on the indolyl rings of the ligand are orientated so that there is some degree of interaction with the metal–chloride bonds. The unexpected reactivity of 4 with Na[B{3,5‐C6H3(CF3)2}4] is also reported. In this case, the product resulting from this reaction was found to be [Pt{3,5‐C6H3(CF3)2}2{PPh2(C9H8N)}2].
Integral Membrane Fatty Acid Desaturases: A Review of Biochemical, Structural, and Biotechnological Advances
Authors: Nachtschatt Matthias , Okada Shoko , Speight Robert
Published: September 2020

Sustainably produced platform chemicals are increasingly sought after. Fatty acids containing olefinic and hydroxy groups are particularly interesting as platform chemicals for regio‐ and stereo‐selective downstream reactions. Integral membrane fatty acid desaturases can selectively introduce double bonds or catalyze unusual reactions such as acetylenation, conjugation, hydroxylation, and epoxidation. Here, a systematic overview of recent achievements and key literature of integral membrane desaturases is provided in the context of biotechnological potential of the enzyme family.

Practical Application: Integral membrane fatty acid desaturases may be the most promising tool to increase the scope of fatty acids as platform chemicals. Plant oil production is well researched and an established sustainable pathway toward high‐yield chemicals. In addition, effort is increasing toward creating microbial high‐yield oil producers. The current bottleneck is the limited fatty acid species that can be produced at high yields. It is envisioned that future enzyme engineering work will enable the targeted design of desaturases to produce modified fatty acids that follow industry needs. This review provides a systematic overview of the natural diversity and complexity of integral membrane fatty acid desaturases to help researchers expand existing fatty acid production beyond currently utilized fatty acid species.
The release of contaminants from steel slags and natural aggregates: Evaluation of toxicity and genotoxicity
Authors: Alias Carlotta , Feretti Donatella , Benassi Laura , Abbà Alessandro , Gelatti Umberto , Sorlini Sabrina , Zerbini Ilaria , Piovani Giovanna
Published: September 2020

Steel slags (SS) are the major waste produced by iron and steel industry. Slags may be reused as recycled materials, instead of natural aggregates (NA), to reduce the final disposal in a landfill and the exploitation of raw materials. However, the reuse of SS may generate a potential release of toxic compounds for the environment and humans. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity and genotoxicity of SS, in comparison with NA, by using an integrated chemical‐biological approach to enable their safe reuse in engineering applications. Leaching solutions from samples were obtained by using short‐term leaching tests (CEN EN 12457‐2, 2004) usually adopted for the evaluation of waste recovery and final disposal. Chemical analyses of leachates were performed according to the Italian legislation on waste recovery (Ministerial Decree 186/2006). The leaching solutions were assayed by using toxicity test on Daphnia magna. Moreover, mutagenicity/genotoxicity tests on Salmonella typhimurium, Allium cepa, and human leucocytes and fibroblasts were carried out. The releases of pollutants from all samples were within the limits of the Italian legislation for waste recovery. Despite the effects that SS and NA could have on different cells, in terms of toxicity and genotoxicity, globally, SS do not seem to be any more hazardous than NA. This ecotoxicological assessment, never studied before, is important for promoting further studies that may support the decision‐making process regarding the use of such types of materials.