bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural and chemical characterization of a purple pigment from a Faiyum mummy portrait
Authors: Gates Glenn , Wu Yaqiao , Burns Jatuporn , Watkins Jennifer , Butt Darryl P.
Published: October 2020

Results are presented from analyses that were conducted to explain the presence of chromium, detected noninvasively using energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), in the unusually large (2‐3mm diameter) rough gem‐like purple pigment particles in the paint used for a Faiyum mummy portrait. An approximately 50 μm diameter particle of the chromium‐containing purple pigment was extracted from thePortrait of a Bearded Man, dated to Roman Imperial Egypt in the second century,circa170‐180 CE, accession #32.6 in the Walters Art Museum collection. The particle was characterized using energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence analysis, electron microscopy, diffraction, and atom probe tomography. It is demonstrated that the purple pigment particle is a heterogeneous organic pigment, specifically, a lake pigment likely derived from either plant or insect matter, which contains minor percentages of both transition metals and alkali / alkali earth metals, with nanometer‐scale crystallites of lead carbonates and sulfates. The analyses revealed for the first time the nanoscale microstructure and stratigraphy in an ancient lake pigment. Results suggest that similarities with respect to time period and place of production may be developed among unprovenienced Faiyum mummy portraits to help localize workshops or artists, using analyses focused on lake pigments to characterize specifically metal‐based mordants.
Dual Emission of meso‐Phenyleneethynylene–BODIPY Oligomers: Synthesis, Photophysics, and Theoretical Optoelectronic Study
Authors: Flores J. Reyes , Castruita‐De León Griselda , Turlakov Gleb , Arias Eduardo , Moggio Ivana , Montemayor Sagrario M. , Torres Román , Ledezma Raquel , Ziolo Ronald F. , González‐Torres Julio
Published: October 2020

Two series of 2,5‐di(butoxy)phenyleneethynylenes, one halogenated (nPEC4‐X; n=2, 3, or 4) and the other boron‐dipyrromethene (BODIPY) terminated (nPEC4‐By; n=3, 4, or 5; By=BODIPY), were synthesized monodirectionally by the step‐by‐step approach and the molecular structure was corroborated by NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C‐DEPTQ‐135, COSY, HSQC, HMBC, 11B, 19F) and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. The multiplicity and J‐coupling constants of 1H, 11B, and 19F/11B NMR signals revealed, in the nPEC4‐By series, that the phenyl in the meso position of BODIPY becomes electronically part of the conjugation of the phenyleneethynylene chain, whereas BODIPY is electronically isolated. The photophysical, electrochemical, and theoretical studies confirm this finding because the properties of nPEC4‐By are comparable to those of the nPEC4‐X oligomers and BODIPY, indicating negligible electron communication between BODIPY and the nPEC4 moieties. Nevertheless, energy transfer (ET) from nPEC4 to BODIPY was rationalized by spectroscopy and theoretical calculations. Its yield decreases with the nPEC4 conjugation length, according to the increase in distance between the two chromophores, resulting in dual emission for the longest oligomer in which ET is quenched.
Evaluation of the Toxicity of Two Electron‐Deficient Half‐Sandwich Complexes against Human Lymphocytes from Healthy Individuals
Authors: Habas Khaled , Soldevila‐Barreda Joan J. , Azmanova Maria , Rafols Laia , Pitto‐Barry Anaïs , Anderson Diana , Barry Nicolas P. E.
Published: October 2020

Electron‐deficient half‐sandwich complexes are a class of under‐studied organometallics with demonstrated potential as metallodrug candidates. This study investigates the effect of two 16‐electron organoruthenium complexes ([(p‐cym)Ru(benzene‐1,2‐dithiolato)] (1) and [(p‐cym)Ru(maleonitriledithiolate)] (2)) on the cell viability of non‐immortalised human lymphocytes from healthy individuals. The genotoxic effects of 1 and 2 in lymphocytes are also investigated by using the Comet and cytokinesis‐block micronucleus assays. Gene expression studies were carried out on a panel of genes involved in apoptosis and the DNA damage‐repair response. Results show that the two 16‐electron complexes do not have significant effect on the cell viability of human lymphocytes from healthy individuals. However, an increase in DNA damage is induced by both compounds, presumably through oxidative stress production.
50 Years European Federation for Medicinal Chemistry (EFMC) – The Ascent of Medicinal Chemistry in Europe
Authors: Differding Edmond
Published: October 2020

A historical overview of key events that led, 50 years ago, to the foundation of the European Federation for Medicinal Chemistry (EFMC), and the impact this had on promoting and structuring medicinal chemistry as a discipline in Europe. EFMC, together with the growing number of newly established national medicinal chemistry societies or divisions, created the framework for networking and knowledge exchange. This includes organizing conferences, in particular its biennial ‘International Symposium on Medicinal Chemistry (EFMC‐ISMC)’. Several interesting trends can be identified from EFMC meetings, EFMC governing bodies, or the federation's recognition of scientific excellence, that highlight changes in the medicinal chemistry community over the last decades, related to affiliation, gender, young scientists, communication tools, and embracing scientific advances.
Decision support for men with prostate cancer: Concordance between treatment choice and tumor risk
Authors: Filson Christopher P. , Hong Fangxin , Xiong Niya , Pozzar Rachel , Halpenny Barbara , Berry Donna L.
Published: October 2020

Background

Decision support tools improve decisional conflict and elicit patient preferences related to prostate cancer treatment. It was hypothesized that men using the Personal Patient Profile–Prostate (P3P) would be more likely to pursue guideline‐concordant treatment.

Methods

Men from a trial assessing the P3P decision support intervention were identified. The primary exposure was allocation to P3P (vs usual care), and the outcome was appropriate treatment per guidelines (eg, low risk = active surveillance). It was assessed whether providers recommended against any treatment options (ie, restricted). A multivariable model was fit for men with low‐risk cancer that estimated the odds of the outcome of interest.

Results

This study identified 295 men in the cohort: 113 (38%) had low‐risk disease, 119 (40%) had favorable intermediate‐risk disease, and 63 (21%) had unfavorable intermediate‐risk disease. Among low‐risk patients, more men pursued active surveillance after using P3P whether they were given unrestricted (62% vs 54% with usual care; P = .54) or restricted options (71% vs 59% with usual care; P = .34). After adjustments, only Black race (odds ratio [OR], 0.31; 95% CI, 0.11‐0.89) and restricted options (OR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.08‐0.65) had an inverse association with the receipt of surveillance for patients with low‐risk prostate cancer. An impact associated with P3P versus usual care (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.36‐2.20) was not observed.

Conclusions

Among men in a trial assessing a decision support tool, Black race and restricted treatment options were associated with less use of active surveillance for low‐risk prostate cancer. Although the P3P instrument ameliorates decisional conflict, its use was not associated with more appropriate alignment of treatment with disease risk.
Immune‐related adverse events of a PD‐L1 inhibitor plus chemotherapy versus a PD‐L1 inhibitor alone in first‐line treatment for advanced non–small cell lung cancer: A meta‐analysis of randomized control trials
Authors: Wang Manting , Liang Hengrui , Wang Wei , Zhao Shen , Cai Xiuyu , Zhao Yi , Li Caichen , Cheng Bo , Xiong Shan , Li Jianfu , He Jianxing , Liang Wenhua
Published: October 2020

Background

The addition of chemotherapy to a programmed death 1/programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibitor is a more effective option as a first‐line treatment for advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It might also inhibit an overactive immune response and thereby reduce immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). This meta‐analysis assessed the rate of irAEs with a PD‐(L)1 inhibitor plus chemotherapy (I+C) versus a PD‐(L)1 inhibitor alone (I) and evaluated the indirect relative risk (RR) of I+C versus I.

Methods

The protocol of this study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020139923). The pooled rates of irAEs at different grades were calculated by a single‐arm meta‐analysis weighted by sample size, and RRs were determined by direct meta‐analysis and indirect treatment comparison.

Results

Overall, I+C had a lower rate of grade 3 or higher irAEs than I (7.1% vs 10.6%; indirect RR, 0.516; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.291‐0.916), although irAEs of any grade were similar. The rate of pneumonitis with I+C was lower than the rate with I for any grade (5.9% vs 7.1%; indirect RR, 0.217; 95% CI, 0.080‐0.588) and for grade 3 or higher. In the endocrine system, I+C was associated with a lower overall ratein comparison with I (16.1% vs 20.1%; indirect RR, 0.260; 95% CI, 0.120‐0.564), whereas irAEs of the digestive system were similar with I+C and I. In other systems, I+C decreased the rate of skin reactions, including rash, in comparison with I (10.4% vs 12.9%; indirect RR, 0.474; 95% CI, 0.299‐0.751). The rate of grade 3 or higher skin reactions (excluding rash) also decreased with I+C versus I (1.1% vs 2.0%) with an indirect RR of 0.158 (95% CI, 0.032‐0.765), whereas other included irAEs were similar.

Conclusions

In comparison with a PD‐(L)1 inhibitor alone, a combination with chemotherapy for the first‐line treatment of NSCLC decreased the rates of most irAEs, such as pneumonitis and endocrine and skin reactions, and the overall rate.

Lay Summary

In the first‐line treatment of advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the addition of chemotherapy to a programmed death 1/programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐(L)1) inhibitor is a more effective option.

Adding chemotherapy might reduce immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). Thus, this article assesses the rate of irAEs with a PD‐(L)1 inhibitor plus chemotherapy (I+C) in comparison with a PD‐(L)1 inhibitor alone (I) and evaluates the indirect relative risk (RR) with I+C versus I.

The key finding is that in comparison with a PD‐(L)1 inhibitor alone, a combination with chemotherapy for the first‐line treatment of NSCLC decreases the rates of most irAEs, such as pneumonitis and endocrine and skin reactions, and the overall rate.
Academics as leaders in the cancer artificial intelligence revolution
Authors: Kochanny Sara E. , Pearson Alexander T.
Published: October 2020

The successful translation of artificial intelligence (AI) applications into clinical cancer care practice requires guidance by academic cancer researchers and providers who are well poised to step into leadership roles. In this commentary, the authors describe the landscape of the deep learning‐based AI innovation boom in cancer research. For progress in applied AI research to continue, 4 essential components must be present: algorithms, data, computational resources, and domain‐specific expertise. Each of these components is available to researchers and providers in academic settings; in particular, cancer care domain‐specific expertise in academia is superb. Three common pitfalls for deep learning research also are detailed along with a discussion of how the academic oncology research environment is well suited to guard against these challenges. In this rapidly developing field, there are few established standards, and oncology researchers and providers must educate themselves about emerging AI technology to avoid common pitfalls and ensure responsible use.
Expanding the utility of cytology preparations in cancer biomarker testing
Authors: Sholl Lynette M. , Hwang David H.
Published: October 2020

Cancer biomarker testing is essential for oncologic management. Cytopathology specimens can be leveraged for successful RNA‐based fusion testing.
Using Cross‐Correlated Spin Relaxation to Characterize Backbone Dihedral Angle Distributions of Flexible Protein Segments
Authors: Kauffmann Clemens , Zawadzka‐Kazimierczuk Anna , Kontaxis Georg , Konrat Robert
Published: October 2020

Crucial to the function of proteins is their existence as conformational ensembles sampling numerous and structurally diverse substates. Despite this widely accepted notion there is still a high demand for meaningful and reliable approaches to characterize protein ensembles in solution. As it is usually conducted in solution, NMR spectroscopy offers unique possibilities to address this challenge. Particularly, cross‐correlated relaxation (CCR) effects have long been established to encode both protein structure and dynamics in a compelling manner. However, this wealth of information often limits their use in practice as structure and dynamics might prove difficult to disentangle. Using a modern Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) reweighting approach to interpret CCR rates of Ubiquitin, we demonstrate that these uncertainties do not necessarily impair resolving CCR‐encoded structural information. Instead, a suitable balance between complementary CCR experiments and prior information is found to be the most crucial factor in mapping backbone dihedral angle distributions. Experimental and systematic deviations such as oversimplified dynamics appear to be of minor importance. Using Ubiquitin as an example, we demonstrate that CCR rates are capable of characterizing rigid and flexible residues alike, indicating their unharnessed potential in studying disordered proteins.
Preface to Special Issue of ChemSusChem on Green Carbon Science: CO2 Capture and Conversion
Authors: Corma Avelino
Published: October 2020

Green carbon science concerns the efficient use of carbon resources and the minimization of CO2 emissions. In this preface to the Special Issue entitled Green Carbon Science: CO2 Capture and Conversion, Professor Avelino Corma offers his thoughts on how the capture and utilization of CO2 can aid the transition to more sustainable production of energy and chemicals.
Unusual cerebrospinal fluid finding of intracytoplasmic granules in metaplastic carcinoma of the breast with acinar differentiation
Authors: Sardana Ruhani , Parwani Anil V , Cui Xiaoyan , Balakrishna Jayalakshmi
Published: October 2020

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluation for total and differential cell count is a common practice in pathology for evaluation of various disease conditions. Although rare, these CSF samples yield interesting and unusual morphological findings, which are not only of academic interest, but also may play key roles in diagnosis. For diagnosing metastatic carcinoma in brain and meninges, CSF examination is one of the important tools along with imaging studies. Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) encompasses a rare (<1% of all breast cancers), aggressive and highly heterogeneous group of tumors. MBC is almost always estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and Her2 negative (triple negative) and shows frequent early distant metastases as well as sub‐optimal response to systemic therapies. The involvement of leptomeninges is most commonly associated with these triple‐ negative subtypes. In this report, we present an unusual case of malignant cells with prominent intracytoplasmic granules in CSF smears of a 46‐year‐old female with metastatic MBC with acinar differentiation. An extensive review of literature in English language did not return any other reports of a similar finding.
Adult‐onset diabetes in Middle Eastern immigrants to Sweden: Novel subgroups and diabetic complications—The All New Diabetes in Scania cohort diabetic complications and ethnicity
Authors: Bennet Louise , Nilsson Christopher , Mansour‐Aly Dina , Christensson Anders , Groop Leif , Ahlqvist Emma
Published: October 2020

Background

Middle Eastern immigrants to Europe represent a high risk population for type 2 diabetes. We compared prevalence of novel subgroups and assessed risk of diabetic macro‐ and microvascular complications between diabetes patients of Middle Eastern and European origin.

Methods

This study included newly diagnosed diabetes patients born in Sweden (N = 10641) or Iraq (N = 286), previously included in the All New Diabetes in Scania cohort. The study was conducted between January 2008 and August 2016. Patients were followed to April 2017. Incidence rates in diabetic macro‐ and microvascular complications were assessed using cox‐regression adjusting for the confounding effect of age at onset, sex, anthropometrics, glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and HbA1c.

Findings

In Iraqi immigrants versus native Swedes, severe insulin‐deficient diabetes was almost twice as common (27.9 vs. 16.2% p < 0.001) but severe insulin‐resistant diabetes was less prevalent. Patients born in Iraq had higher risk of coronary events (hazard ratio [HR] 1.84, 95% CI 1.06–3.12) but considerably lower risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) than Swedes (HR 0.19; 0.05–0.76). The lower risk in Iraqi immigrants was partially attributed to better eGFR. Genetic risk scores (GRS) showed more genetic variants associated with poor insulin secretion but lower risk of insulin resistance in the Iraqi than native Swedish group.

Interpretation

People with diabetes, born in the Middle East present with a more insulin‐deficient phenotype and genotype than native Swedes. They have a higher risk of coronary events but lower risk of CKD. Ethnic differences should be considered in the preventive work towards diabetes and its complications.
Stability of psilocybin and its four analogs in the biomass of the psychotropic mushroom Psilocybe cubensis
Authors: Gotvaldová Klára , Hájková Kateřina , Borovička Jan , Jurok Radek , Cihlářová Petra , Kuchař Martin
Published: October 2020

Psilocybin, psilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin are tryptamines structurally similar to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Psilocybin and its pharmacologically active metabolite psilocin in particular are known for their psychoactive effects. These substances typically occur in most species of the genus Psilocybe (Fungi, Strophariaceae). Even the sclerotia of some of these fungi known as “magic truffles” are of growing interest in microdosing due to them improving cognitive function studies. In addition to microdosing studies, psilocybin has also been applied in clinical studies, but only its pure form has been administrated so far. Moreover, the determination of tryptamine alkaloids is used in forensic analysis.

In this study, freshly cultivated fruit bodies of Psilocybe cubensis were used for monitoring stability (including storage and processing conditions of fruiting bodies). Furthermore, mycelium and the individual parts of the fruiting bodies (caps, stipes, and basidiospores) were also examined. The concentration of tryptamines in final extracts was analyzed using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. No tryptamines were detected in the basidiospores, and only psilocin was present at 0.47 wt.% in the mycelium. The stipes contained approximately half the amount of tryptamine alkaloids (0.52 wt.%) than the caps (1.03 wt.%); however, these results were not statistically significant, as the concentration of tryptamines in individual fruiting bodies is highly variable. The storage conditions showed that the highest degradation of tryptamines was seen in fresh mushrooms stored at −80°C, and the lowest decay was seen in dried biomass stored in the dark at room temperature.
Kinetic profile of N,N‐dimethyltryptamine and β‐carbolines in saliva and serum after oral administration of ayahuasca in a religious context
Authors: Lanaro Rafael , Mello Sueli Moreira , da Cunha Kelly Francisco , Silveira Gabriela , Corrêa‐Neto Nelson Francisco , Hyslop Stephen , Cabrices Oscar G. , Costa Jose Luiz , Linardi Alessandra
Published: October 2020

Ayahuasca is a beverage obtained from Banisteriopsis caapi plus Psychotria viridis. B. caapi contains the β‐carbolines harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine that are monoamine oxidase inhibitors and P. viridis contains N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT) that is responsible for the visionary effects of the beverage. Ayahuasca use is becoming a global phenomenon, and the recreational use of DMT and similar alkaloids has also increased in recent years; such uncontrolled use can lead to severe intoxications. In this investigation, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was used to study the kinetics of alkaloids over a 24 h period in saliva and serum of 14 volunteers who consumed ayahuasca twice a month in a religious context. We compared the area under the curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), time to reach Cmax (Tmax), mean residence time (MRT), and half‐life (t1/2), as well as the serum/saliva ratios of these parameters. DMT and β‐carboline concentrations (Cmax) and AUC were higher in saliva than in serum and the MRT was 1.5–3.0 times higher in serum. A generalized estimation equations (GEEs) model suggested that serum concentrations could be predicted by saliva concentrations, despite large individual variability in the saliva and serum alkaloid concentrations. The possibility of using saliva as a biological matrix to detect DMT, β‐carbolines, and their derivatives is very interesting because it allows fast noninvasive sample collection and could be useful for detecting similar alkaloids used recreationally that have considerable potential for intoxication.
Thermal transgenerational effects remain after two generations
Authors: Lee Who‐Seung , Salinas Santiago , Lee Young‐Rog , Siskidis Jo Anne , Mangel Marc , Munch Stephan B.
Published: October 2020

Transgenerational plasticity (TGP) is increasingly recognized as a mechanism by which organisms can respond to environments that change across generations. Although recent empirical and theoretical studies have explored conditions under which TGP is predicted to evolve, it is still unclear whether the effects of the parental environment will remain beyond the offspring generation. Using a small cyprinodontid fish, we explored multigenerational thermal TGP to address two related questions. First (experiment 1), does the strength of TGP decline or accumulate across multiple generations? Second (experiment 2), how does the experience of a temperature novel to both parents and offspring affect the strength of TGP? In the first experiment, we found a significant interaction between F1 and F2 temperatures and juvenile growth, but no effect of egg diameter. The strength of TGP between F0 and F1 generations was similar in both experiments but declined in subsequent generations. Further, experience of a novel temperature accelerated the decline. This pattern, although similar to that found in other species, is certainly not universally observed, suggesting that theoretical and empirical effort is needed to understand the multigenerational dynamics of TGP.
Biogeographic differences in plant–soil biota relationships contribute to the exotic range expansion of Verbascum thapsus
Authors: Dieskau Julia , Bruelheide Helge , Gutknecht Jessica , Erfmeier Alexandra
Published: October 2020

Exotic plant species can evolve adaptations to environmental conditions in the exotic range. Furthermore, soil biota can foster exotic spread in the absence of negative soil pathogen–plant interactions or because of increased positive soil biota–plant feedbacks in the exotic range. Little is known, however, about the evolutionary dimension of plant–soil biota interactions when comparing native and introduced ranges.

To assess the role of soil microbes for rapid evolution in plant invasion, we subjected Verbascum thapsus, a species native to Europe, to a reciprocal transplant experiment with soil and seed material originating from Germany (native) and New Zealand (exotic). Soil samples were treated with biocides to distinguish between effects of soil fungi and bacteria. Seedlings from each of five native and exotic populations were transplanted into soil biota communities originating from all populations and subjected to treatments of soil biota reduction: application of (a) fungicide, (b) biocide, (c) a combination of the two, and (d) control.

For most of the investigated traits, native populations showed higher performance than exotic populations; there was no effect of soil biota origin. However, plants developed longer leaves and larger rosettes when treated with their respective home soil communities, indicating that native and exotic plant populations differed in their interaction with soil biota origin. The absence of fungi and bacteria resulted in a higher specific root length, suggesting that V. thapsus may compensate the absence of mutualistic microbes by increasing its root–soil surface contact.

Synthesis. Introduced plants can evolve adaptations to soil biota in their new distribution range. This demonstrates the importance of biogeographic differences in plant–soil biota relationships and suggests that future studies addressing evolutionary divergence should account for differential effects of soil biota from the home and exotic range on native and exotic populations of successful plant invaders.
Vegetation growth and landscape genetics of Tillandsia lomas at their dry limits in the Atacama Desert show fine‐scale response to environmental parameters
Authors: Koch Marcus A. , Stock Clara , Kleinpeter Dorothea , del Río Camilo , Osses Pablo , Merklinger Felix F. , Quandt Dietmar , Siegmund Alexander
Published: October 2020

Ecosystem dry limits have been studied in the context of species biology, fitness, and interactions with biotic and abiotic parameters, but the interactive effects of these parameters remain underexplored. Therefore, information on the putative effects of global climate change on these ecosystems is often lacking.

We analyzed the interplay between fine‐scale landscape genetics and biotic and abiotic factors of terrestrial Tillandsia lomas in the hyperarid Atacama Desert, characterized by a fog‐dependent vegetation type almost entirely dominated by one single vascular plant species.

We showed that metapopulations of Tillandsia landbeckii are genetically connected over many hundreds of square kilometers, and despite having a large potential for clonal propagation, genetic diversity is regionally and locally structured. At the landscape level, genetic diversity correlates well with fitness parameters such as growth, flowering, and vegetation density. We also observed fine‐scale correlation with a 3‐D landscape model indicating a positive feedback with seasonal fog occurrence and availability. The various interactions of biotic and abiotic factors resulted in regular linear banding patterns of vegetation arranged orthogonally toward the landscape slope. Ex situ growth experiments indicated that T. landbeckii grows at optimal rates in this extreme hyperarid environment, and we can extrapolate mean biomass production for this ecosystem.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that the unique ecosystem of terrestrial Tillandsia lomas in the hyperarid Atacama Desert is an evolutionarily balanced and fine‐scaled system. The vegetation itself is composed of long‐lived and persistent modules. We developed a descriptive model of the various interacting factors, thereby also highlighting the severe threat caused by global climate change potentially associated with fog disturbance patterns along the Chilean Pacific coast.
Influence of soil warming and N‐addition on sap flux density and stem radius variation in boreal stands in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Balducci Lorena , Deslauriers Annie , De Barba Daniele , Rossi Sergio , Houle Daniel , Bergeron Yves , Morin Hubert
Published: October 2020

Climate change is projected to intensify the global hydrological cycle and increase temperatures. Excess N deposition could limit plant productivity because of a lack of plant–soil system efficiency with reduced water availability. However, the effects of soil warming and N‐addition on tree water transport and water use remain poorly understood. This study aimed to quantify the effects of soil warming and N‐addition associated with meteorological variables on the sap flux density and stem radius variation in black spruce (Picea mariana [Mill.] B.S.P.). From 2008 to 2014, we conducted a long‐term experiment on mature trees growing in two stands (Bernatchez [BER] and Simoncouche [SIM]) at different latitudes to evaluate the effect of soil warming (H) and N‐addition. During 2014, we investigated soil and plant water status between May and August, sap flux density from July to August and stem radius variation over the whole year. At the colder, northern site (BER), we detected a significant increase in sap flux density with the H‐treatment, whereas no effect was observed at the warmer, southern site (SIM). At BER, diurnal sap flux density in H × N‐addition treatment showed a significant effect in the afternoon near the peak of day compared with the other treatments. We found no significant effects of independent single or combined factors on soil and plant water status and stem radius variation at either site. Under climate change, black spruce at more northern sites could have a better water use and storage for wood productivity than those at more southern sites.
Toxic Effects of Polychlorinated Biphenyl Congeners and Aroclors on Embryonic Growth and Development
Authors: Singleman Corinna , Zimmerman Alison , Harrison Elise , Roy Nirmal K. , Wirgin Isaac , Holtzman Nathalia G.
Published: October 2020

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) cause significant health and reproductive problems in many vertebrates. Exposure during embryogenesis likely leads to defects in organ development, compromising survival and growth through adulthood. The present study identifies the impact of PCBs on the embryonic development of key organs and resulting consequences on survival and growth. Zebrafish embryos were treated with individual PCB congeners (126 or 104) or one of 4 Aroclor mixtures (1016, 1242, 1254, or 1260) and analyzed for changes in gross embryonic morphology. Specific organs were assessed for defects during embryonic development, using a variety of transgenic zebrafish to improve organ visualization. Resulting larvae were grown to adulthood while survival and growth were assayed. Embryonic gross development on PCB treatment was abnormal, with defects presenting in a concentration-dependent manner in the liver, pancreas, heart, and blood vessel organization. Polychlorinated biphenyl 126 treatment resulted in the most consistently severe and fatal phenotypes, whereas treatments with PCB 104 and Aroclors resulted in a range of more subtle organ defects. Survival of fish was highly variable although the growth rates of surviving fish were relatively normal, suggesting that maturing PCB-treated fish that survive develop compensatory strategies needed to reach adulthood. Life span analyses of fish from embryogenesis through adulthood, as in the present study, are scarce but important for the field because they help identify foci for further studies. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:187–201. © 2020 SETAC
Applying cumulative effects to strategically advance large‐scale ecosystem restoration
Authors: Diefenderfer Heida L , Steyer Gregory D , Harwell Matthew C , LoSchiavo Andrew J , Neckles Hilary A , Burdick David M , Johnson Gary E , Buenau Kate E , Trujillo Elene , Callaway John C , Thom Ronald M , Ganju Neil K , Twilley Robert R
Published: October 2020

International efforts to restore degraded ecosystems will continue to expand over the coming decades, yet the factors contributing to the effectiveness of long‐term restoration across large areas remain largely unexplored. At large scales, outcomes are more complex and synergistic than the additive impacts of individual restoration projects. Here, we propose a cumulative‐effects conceptual framework to inform restoration design and implementation and to comprehensively measure ecological outcomes. To evaluate and illustrate this approach, we reviewed long‐term restoration in several large coastal and riverine areas across the US: the greater Florida Everglades; Gulf of Mexico coast; lower Columbia River and estuary; Puget Sound; San Francisco Bay and Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta; Missouri River; and northeastern coastal states. Evidence supported eight modes of cumulative effects of interacting restoration projects, which improved outcomes for species and ecosystems at landscape and regional scales. We conclude that cumulative effects, usually measured for ecosystem degradation, are also measurable for ecosystem restoration. The consideration of evidence‐based cumulative effects will help managers of large‐scale restoration capitalize on positive feedback and reduce countervailing effects.
Overview of recent land‐cover changes in biodiversity hotspots
Authors: Hu Xiangping , Huang Bo , Verones Francesca , Cavalett Otavio , Cherubini Francesco
Published: October 2020

Between 1992 and 2015, nearly 148 million hectares (Mha) within biodiversity hotspots – biologically rich but threatened terrestrial regions – worldwide underwent land‐cover changes, equating to 6% of the total areal extent of hotspots. Forest losses in hotspots amounted to 54 Mha (–7% of the forest area present in 1992), driven primarily by agricultural expansion (38 Mha); shrubland or savanna also declined by 23 Mha (–8%). Over the same time, urban areas expanded by 10 Mha (+108%). Major losses in forest areas occurred in Sundaland (11 Mha, –13% relative to 1992), Indo‐Burma (6 Mha, –6%), and Mesoamerica (5 Mha, –7%). Approximately 7.5 Mha of forest loss occurred within protected areas (–5% of the respective forest area in 1992), of which 3.9 Mha was cleared between 2000 and 2015, with ~1 Mha alone converted in the 5 years after 2010. More stringent and effective land‐based policies are urgently needed to prevent additional landscape fragmentation and preserve existing species richness in the world's biodiversity hotspots.
Neuronal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor manipulates microglial dynamics
Authors: Onodera Junya , Nagata Hidetaka , Nakashima Ai , Ikegaya Yuji , Koyama Ryuta
Published: October 2020

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a main member of the neurotrophin family that is active in the brain, supports neuronal survival and growth. Microglial BDNF affects both the structural and functional properties of neurons. In contrast, whether and how neuronal BDNF affects microglial dynamics remain largely undetermined. Here, we examined the effects of BDNF on the properties of microglia in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. We chose this site because the axonal boutons of hippocampal mossy fibers, which are mostly formed in the CA3 region, contain the highest levels of BDNF in the rodent brain. We transfected mouse dentate granule cells with an adeno‐associated virus that encodes both a BDNF short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and red fluorescent protein to examine the effects of mossy fiber‐derived BDNF on microglia. Based on immunohistochemistry, BDNF knockdown with an shRNA resulted in an increase in microglial density in the mossy fiber pathway and increased engulfment of mossy fiber axons by microglia. In addition, we performed time‐lapse imaging of microglial processes in hippocampal slice cultures to examine the effects of BDNF on microglial motility. Time‐lapse imaging revealed increases in the motility of microglial processes and the engulfment of mossy fiber synapses by microglia when BDNF signaling was pharmacologically blocked. Thus, neuronal BDNF prevents microglia from engulfing mossy fiber synapses in the hippocampus.
Restricting the relative weights in data envelopment analysis
Authors: Arman Hosein , Hadi‐Vencheh Abdollah
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we address the problem of relative weight restriction in data envelopment analysis (DEA). A fuzzy‐based approach to restricting the relative weights is proposed in this study. Unlike the classical weight restriction methods, the proposed approach has an interactive orientation. That is, similar to analytical hierarchy process, the proposed method shares the decision maker (DM) in weight restriction process. Here, the preferences of DM are asked via pairwise comparison matrices. Then, the weights of factors (inputs/outputs) are extracted from these matrices. These weights, finally, are incorporated in multiplier DEA models as the parametric triangular fuzzy numbers, in which, the parameter value indicates the degree of conformity of the relative weights according to DM views. To best of our knowledge, no one has been yet utilized fuzzy set theory to control the relative weights in DEA. Putting in another word, the contribution of this study is that the authors propose a new approach based on fuzzy set theory to weight restriction in DEA. A last, a real case on financial banking efficiency is used to illustrate the proposed approach.
Nulliparity and postmenopausal status are independent factors of malignancy potential of endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia in polyps
Authors: Karakas Latife Atasoy , Atilgan Alev Ok , Akilli Huseyin , Kuscu Ulku Esra , Haberal Ali , Ayhan Ali
Published: October 2020

Objective

To estimate the risk of concurrent endometrial cancer in endometrium when endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN) is found within an endometrial polyp and to identify the possible predictive factors for concurrent endometrial cancer.

Methods

Histopathologic data of women who underwent hysteroscopy for resection of endometrial polyps at Ankara Baskent University Hospital, between 2011 and 2019 were screened. Patients whose polypectomy report was EIN in a polyp, and who had a final report of the hysterectomy specimen were included. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of concurrent cancer in the hysterectomy material: group 1, concurrent cancer present and group 2, concurrent cancer absent. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS.

Results

A total of 4125 women underwent hysteroscopy for the resection of endometrial polyps. Of those women, 161 (3.9%) were diagnosed as having EIN and 115 met the criteria. The rate of concurrent endometrial cancer was 28.6% (33/115). According to multivariate analysis, nulliparity (odds ratio [OR] 0.38; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–3.67; p = 0.036) and postmenopausal status (OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.42–0.98; p = 0.042) were found to be independent factors significantly associated with concurrent endometrial cancer.

Conclusion

The incidence of concurrent cancer is higher in postmenopausal or nulliparous women when EIN is detected in a polyp.
Microglial Annexin A3 promoted the development of melanoma via activation of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α/vascular endothelial growth factor signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Bin , Zhang Xiping , Gao Yuan , Song Jianfei , Shi Bailing
Published: October 2020

Background

Melanoma, a relatively common malignancy, has become one of the tumors with the fastest rising incidence in recent years. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Microglial Annexin A3 (ANXA3) on melanoma.

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from 20 patients with melanoma or 20 healthy controls. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis was performed. Transcriptome were used to analyze the correlation between ANXA3 expression and overall survival in patients with melanoma. Human melanoma cell lines WM‐115 cells were transfected with ANXA3, si‐ANXA3, ANXA3 + si‐hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), si‐ANXA3 + HIF‐1α, and negative plasmids. Cell proliferation assay, cell invasion assay, and wound healing assay were performed on WM‐115 cells. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and caspase‐3/9 activities were detected by commercial kits. Western blot and RT‐PCR were used to detect the protein and mRNA expression of relation factors.

Results

ANXA3 expression was up‐regulated in patients with melanoma in comparison with healthy controls. Over‐expression of ANXA3 promoted cell growth and migration, and reduced cytotoxicity of WM‐115 cells. Overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) of patients with high ANXA3 expression were both lower than those of patients with low ANXA3 expression. Down‐regulation of ANXA3 reduced cell growth and migration, and promoted cytotoxicity of WM‐115 cells. ANXA3 induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway by activation of HIF‐1α.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our results indicated that ANXA3 promoted cell growth and migration of melanoma via activation of HIF‐1α/VEGF signaling pathway.
Reporting of Randomized Controlled Trials Investigating an Enteral or Parenteral Nutrition Intervention in Critical Illness According to the CONSORT Statement: A Systematic Review and Recommendation of Minimum Standard Reporting Criteria
Authors: Seddon Nathan , Chapple Lee‐anne S. , Tatucu‐Babet Oana A. , Ridley Emma J.
Published: October 2020

Lack of reporting consistency is common in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in critical care nutrition. This impacts synthesis and interpretation and may misinform clinical practice. The objective was to evaluate reporting of parallel‐group RCTs of enteral or parenteral nutrition interventions in critically ill adults against the recommendations in the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) 2010 guidelines and a priori–defined nutrition criteria. A systematic search of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL was conducted to identify RCTs published from January 2011 to February 14, 2020. The primary outcome was the percentage of CONSORT criteria “completely met” (a score of 1) from all included studies (out of a total possible score of 37). Secondary outcomes included the percentage of CONSORT criteria that were “partially” or “not met” and the percentage of a priori–defined nutrition criteria that were “completely,” “partially,” or “not met” (adjusted to reflect criteria applicable to the paper). Data are presented as mean (standard deviation). Comparisons of normally distributed continuous data were made using at‐test (P< .05). Of 18,969 articles identified, 56 studies met inclusion criteria. Of these, 60% (19%) of the eligible CONSORT criteria were “completely met,” 20% (9%) “partially met,” and 20% (15%) “not met.” For the nutrition criteria, 41% (20%) of the eligible criteria were “completely met,” 25% (14%) “partially met,” and 34% (17%) “not met.” Reporting against CONSORT guidelines was variable and often incomplete in relation to important a priori–defined nutrition variables.
Peri‐implant marginal mucosa defects: Classification and clinical management
Authors: Gamborena Iñaki , Avila‐Ortiz Gustavo
Published: October 2020

Peri‐implant marginal mucosa defects (PMMDs) are alterations of the peri‐implant soft tissue architecture characterized by an apical discrepancy of the mucosal margin respective to its ideal position with or without exposure of transmucosal prosthetic components or the implant fixture surface. PMMDs may not only represent an esthetic concern but also predispose to biofilm accumulation and subsequent initiation and progression of peri‐implant inflammatory diseases. A treatment‐driven classification for tooth‐bound, facial PMMDs in non‐molar sites, consisting of three different levels of complexity, is proposed. Clinical recommendations pertaining to the prosthetic and surgical management of each type of PMMD, illustrated with practical examples, are provided with the purpose of facilitating decision‐making processes in daily practice.
Current Practices in Endotracheal Tube Size Selection for Adults
Authors: Cao Austin C. , Rereddy Shruthi , Mirza Natasha
Published: October 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Intubation with inappropriately sized endotracheal tubes (ETT) can cause long‐term tracheal and laryngeal injuries often requiring surgical intervention. Although tracheal size has been demonstrated to vary based on height and sex, it is unclear whether these guidelines are regularly implemented in patients undergoing endotracheal intubation. The objective of this study is to determine the rate of appropriate ETT size selection in patients undergoing intubation and assess provider decision making in ETT size selection.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The study population was all patients who underwent endotracheal intubation over a two‐week period at a tertiary academic medical center. Data were collected on patient age, gender, height, BMI, comorbidities, ETT size, duration of intubation, bronchoscopies, and type of practitioner who performed the intubation. A height‐based nomogram for ETT size selection was used to determine the recommended ETT size for each patient.

Results

One hundred five patients met the inclusion criteria. 22% of patients were intubated with an inappropriately large tube, defined as 1.0 mm larger than the recommended size. Women were more likely to be intubated with an inappropriately large ETT (OR = 13.58, P = .001), as were patients with height less than 160 cm (OR = 141, P = .001). Other factors related to disease severity, anticipation for bronchoscopy, and BMI were not risk factors for the use of inappropriately large ETT.

Conclusions

Although there is compelling evidence that height is a strong predictor of tracheal morphology and appropriate ETT size, height‐based guidelines have yet to be universally adopted for ETT size selection. Laryngoscope, 131:1967–1971, 2021
Seeing is believing: Current methods to observe sperm acrosomal exocytosis in real time
Authors: Balestrini Paula A. , Jabloñski Martina , Schiavi‐Ehrenhaus Liza J. , Marín‐Briggiler Clara I. , Sánchez‐Cárdenas Claudia , Darszon Alberto , Krapf Darío , Buffone Mariano G.
Published: October 2020

Acrosomal exocytosis (AR) is a critical process that sperm need to undergo to fertilize an egg. The evaluation of the presence or absence of the acrosome is usually performed by using lectins or dyes in fixed cells. With this approach, it is neither possible to monitor the dynamic process of exocytosis and related molecular events while discriminating between live and dead cells, nor to evaluate the acrosomal status while sperm reside in the female reproductive tract. However, over the last two decades, several new methodologies have been used to assess the occurrence of AR in living cells allowing different groups to obtain information that was not possible in the past. These techniques have revolutionized the whole study of this process. This review summarizes current methods available to analyze AR in living cells as well as the important information that emerged from studies using these approaches.
Confounding factors in breast magnetic resonance fingerprinting: , slice profile, and diffusion effects
Authors: Nolte Teresa , Scholten Hannah , Gross‐Weege Nicolas , Amthor Thomas , Koken Peter , Doneva Mariya , Schulz Volkmar
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) offers rapid quantitative imaging but may be subject to confounding effects (CE) if these are not included in the model‐based reconstruction. This study characterizes the influence of in‐plane , slice profile and diffusion effects on T1 and T2 estimation in the female breast at 1.5T.

Methods

Simulations were used to predict the influence of each CE on the accuracy of MRF and to investigate the influence of electronic noise and spiral aliasing artefacts. The experimentally observed bias in regions of fibroglandular tissue (FGT) and fatty tissue (FT) was analyzed for undersampled spiral breast MRF data of 6 healthy volunteers by performing MRF reconstruction with and without a CE.

Results

Theoretic analysis predicts T1 under‐/T2 overestimation if the nominal flip angles are underestimated and inversely, T1 under‐/T2 overestimation if omitting slice profile correction, and T1 under‐/T2 underestimation if omitting diffusion in the signal model. Averaged over repeated signal simulations, including spiral aliasing artefacts affected precision more than accuracy. Strong in‐plane effects occurred in vivo, causing T2 left–right inhomogeneity between both breasts. Their correction decreased the T2 difference from 29 to 5 ms in FGT and from 29 to 9 ms in FT. Slice profile correction affected FGT T2 most strongly, resulting in −22% smaller values. For the employed spoiler gradient strengths, diffusion did not affect the parameter maps, corresponding well with theoretic predictions.

Conclusion

Understanding CEs and their relative significance for an MRF sequence is important when defining an MRF signal model for accurate parameter mapping.