bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Halotolerance mechanisms of the methanotroph Methylomicrobium alcaliphilum
Authors: Bordel Sergio , Pérez Rebeca , Rodríguez Elisa , Cantera Sara , Fernández‐González Nuria , Martínez María A. , Muñoz Raúl
Published: July 2020

Methylomicrobium alcaliphilum is an alkaliphilic and halotolerant methanotroph. The physiological responses of M. alcaliphilum to high NaCl concentrations, were studied using RNA sequencing and metabolic modeling. This study revealed that M. alcaliphilum possesses an unusual respiratory chain, in which complex I is replaced by a Na+ extruding NQR complex (highly upregulated under high salinity conditions) and a Na+ driven adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase coexists with a conventional H+ driven ATP synthase. A thermodynamic and metabolic model showing the interplay between these different components is presented. Ectoine is the main osmoprotector used by the cells. Ectoine synthesis is activated by the transcription of an ect operon that contains five genes, including the ectoine hydroxylase coding ectD gene. Enzymatic tests revealed that the product of ectD does not have catalytic activity. A new Genome Scale Metabolic Model for M. alcaliphilum revealed a higher flux in the oxidative branch of the pentose phosphate pathway leading to NADPH production and contributing to resistance to oxidative stress.
Change in emotional eating after bariatric surgery: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wong L Y , Zafari N , Churilov L , Stammers L , Price S , Ekinci E I , Sumithran P
Published: July 2020

Background

The effect of bariatric surgery on ‘emotional eating’ (EE) in people with obesity is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine changes in self-reported emotional eating behaviour after bariatric surgery.

Methods

Fifteen electronic databases were searched from inception to August 2019. Included studies encompassed patients undergoing primary bariatric surgery, quantitatively assessed EE, and reported EE scores before and after surgery in the same participants. Studies were excluded if they were not in English or available in full text. The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Random-effects models were used for quantitative analysis. Study quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute quality assessment tool for before–after (pre–post) studies with no control group.

Results

Some 23 studies containing 6749 participants were included in the qualitative synthesis, with follow-up of from 2 weeks to 48 months. EE scores decreased to 12 months after surgery. Results were mixed beyond 12 months. Quantitative synthesis of 17 studies (2811 participants) found that EE scores decreased by a standardized mean difference of 1·09 (95 per cent c.i. 0·76 to 1·42) 4–18 months after surgery, indicating a large effect size.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery may mitigate the tendency to eat in response to emotions in the short to medium term.
A retrospective study on risk assessment and management of forensic psychiatric inpatients in Hong Kong
Authors: Siu Bonnie W.M. , So Jane W.L. , Yuen K.K. , Chan Anita W.L. , Chan Clement , Lai Eric S.K. , Leung H.W. , Lam M.
Published: July 2020

The Department of Forensic Psychiatry of Castle Peak Hospital is the only facility in Hong Kong that provides territory‐wide forensic psychiatric services for patients with criminal involvement. This retrospective study aimed to explore whether the rehabilitation programs provided by the department could significantly reduce the risks of forensic psychiatric inpatients as measured by the Short‐Term Assessment of Risk and Treatability (START). START ratings of inpatients who were hospitalized in the department for more than 3 months and were discharged to the community during the period from 11 April 2015 to 31 March 2019 were analyzed. A total of 79 patients were assessed, of whom 61 (77.2%) were males. Fifty‐four (68.4%) patients suffered from schizophrenia. START scores upon admission (strength score = 5.67; vulnerability score = 17.43) and upon discharge (strength score = 6.87, vulnerability score = 11.18) indicated significant reduction of risks among inpatients (p< 0.05).
Attend conferences for professional, personal development
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: July 2020

One of my favorite parts of my career was attending state, regional, and national conferences. I set out to gain at least one benefit from every conference I attended, and I always learned something or met someone that added value to my job.
Enzymatic Construction of Artificial Base Pairs: The Effect of Metal Shielding
Authors: Flamme Marie , Levi‐Acobas Fabienne , Hensel Susanne , Naskar Shuvankar , Röthlisberger Pascal , Sarac Ivo , Gasser Gilles , Müller Jens , Hollenstein Marcel
Published: July 2020

Th formation of metal base pairs is a versatile method for the introduction of metal cations into nucleic acids that has been used in numerous applications including the construction of metal nanowires, development of energy, charge‐transfer devices and expansion of the genetic alphabet. As an alternative, enzymatic construction of metal base pairs is an alluring strategy that grants access to longer sequences and offers the possibility of using such unnatural base pairs (UBPs) in SELEX experiments for the identification of functional nucleic acids. This method remains rather underexplored, and a better understanding of the key parameters in the design of efficient nucleotides is required. We have investigated the effect of methylation of the imidazole nucleoside (dImnMeTP) on the efficiency of the enzymatic construction of metal base pairs. The presence of methyl substituents on dImTP facilitates the polymerase‐driven formation of dIm4Me−AgI−dIm and dIm2MeTP−CrIII−dIm base pairs. Steric factors rather than the basicity of the imidazole nucleobase appear to govern the enzymatic formation of such metal base pairs. We also demonstrate the compatibility of other metal cations rarely considered in the construction of artificial metal bases by enzymatic DNA synthesis under both primer extension reaction and PCR conditions. These findings open up new directions for the design of nucleotide analogues for the development of metal base pairs.
PAX3 silencing inhibits prostate cancer progression through the suppression of the TGF‐β/Smad signaling axis
Authors: Zeng Ke , Xie Wenxian , Huang Jun , Yang Jian , Deng Kefei , Luo Xiaohui
Published: July 2020

Multiple studies have confirmed the pro‐oncogenic effects of PAX3 in an array of cancers, but its role in prostate cancer (PCa) remains largely undefined. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of PAX3 in PCa. PAX3 expression was compared between PCa tumor tissue and nontumor tissues and PCa cell lines and normal prostate epithelial cells (PNT2) by western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry staining. MTT and immunofluorescence assays were used to detect PCa cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate cell apoptosis in PCa. Transwell assays were used for the determination of cell migration and PCa cell invasion. PAX3 expression was higher in PCa tissues and human PCa cell lines. Moreover, PAX3 silencing inhibited the proliferation, metastasis, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of PCa cells, and increased the rates of apoptosis. PAX3 silencing inhibited transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β)/Smad signaling in PCa cells. The effects of si‐PAX3 on the proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and EMT of PCa cells were alleviated by TGF‐β1 treatment. PAX3 silencing inhibits PCa progression through the inhibition of TGF‐β/Smad signaling. This reveals PAX3 as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target for future PCa treatments.
The appearance of a single left atrial tachycardia as two different types on preoperative surface and intracardiac ECG of pacemaker due to progressive cardiac conduction disturbance
Authors: Sakamoto Yusuke , Osanai Hiroyuki , Uno Hiroto , Kurokawa Hideki , Kondo Shun , Tokuda Kotaro , Kanbara Takahiro , Nakashima Yoshihito , Asano Hiroshi , Ajioka Masayoshi
Published: July 2020

We treated a patient with PCCD whose single left AT appeared as two different types on preoperative surface and intracardiac ECG from a pacemaker. The diagnosis was hindered by the fact that the conduction block encompassed interatrial block and the pacemaker A‐wave was captured at the right atrial appendage.
The rare green‐blue neutrophil inclusion bodies. Worth reporting in blood films? A case of a patient with polytrauma
Authors: Bowen Rebecca Katrina , Koutsavlis Ioannis
Published: July 2020

Blood films are an easy tool to aid the diagnosis and management of unwell patients and should be prepared in this setting. Green‐blue neutrophil inclusion bodies could be an ominous sign of poor prognosis in critically ill patients.
Surge of Miller Fisher variant and Guillain‐Barré syndrome in two downtown Los Angeles community teaching hospitals
Authors: Yang Michael C. , Liu Antonio
Published: July 2020

Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) and Miller Fisher variant (MFv) cases spiked threefold in Los Angeles, with a high proportion of MFv cases. MFv is underdiagnosed when accompanying neurological symptoms are mild. This report emphasizes the seasonality of GBS and its relation to ganglioside antibodies.
Anaphylaxis following prick‐by‐prick testing with peanut
Authors: Alnæs Marie
Published: July 2020

Anaphylaxis due to prick‐by‐prick testing is a rare but potentially life‐threatening complication. Personnel performing testing should be able to recognize and treat anaphylaxis. Adrenaline must be available. In high‐risk patients with a history of anaphylaxis, specific igE with components and a basophile activation test is desirable before skin prick testing.
Conservation soybean production systems in the mid‐southern USA: I. Transitioning from conventional to conservation tillage
Authors: Bryant C.J. , Krutz L.J. , Reynolds D.B. , Locke M.A. , Golden B.R. , Irby T. , Steinriede R.W. , Spencer G.D. , Mills B.E. , Wood C.W.
Published: July 2020

The adoption of production systems that leave greater than 30% residue coverage on the soil surface, that is, conservation tillage, is limited in the mid‐southern United States due to the development of a hardpan and subsequent yield reductions. This research was conducted to determine if the inclusion of subsoiling in conservation tillage systems can maintain yield and profitability relative to that of conventional tillage. The effects of surface and subsurface tillage on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] grain yield, net returns above specified costs, and water use efficiency (WUE) were investigated near Stoneville, MS on a Dubbs silt loam (Fine‐silty, mixed, active, thermic Typic Hapludalfs). Conservation tillage with subsoiling maintained or improved soybean grain yield, net returns above specified costs, and WUE up to 68% in three of four years. Conversely, conservation tillage alone either had no effect or decreased soybean grain yield up to 14%, decreased net returns above specified costs up to 20%, and decreased WUE up to 14%. Our data indicate that inclusion of subsoiling minimizes yield and net return declines commonly associated with conservation tillage systems and should be a component of the early soybean production system on medium‐ to coarse‐textured soils.
New Photosensitizers Based on Heteroleptic CuI Complexes and CO2 Photocatalytic Reduction with [NiII(cyclam)]Cl2
Authors: Gracia Lisa‐Lou , Luci Luisa , Bruschi Cecilia , Sambri Letizia , Weis Patrick , Fuhr Olaf , Bizzarri Claudia
Published: July 2020

Earth‐abundant metal complexes have been attracting increasing attention in the field of photo(redox)catalysis. In this work, the synthesis and full characterisation of four new heteroleptic CuI complexes are reported, which can work as photosensitizers. The complexes bear a bulky diphosphine (DPEPhos=bis[(2‐diphenylphosphino)phenyl] ether) and a diimine chelating ligand based on 1‐benzyl‐4‐(quinol‐2′yl)‐1,2,3‐triazole. Their absorption has a relative maximum in the visible‐light region, up to 450 nm. Thus, their use in photocatalytic systems for the reduction of CO2 with blue light in combination with the known catalyst [NiII(cyclam)]Cl2 was tested. This system produced CO as the main product through visible light (λ=420 nm) with a TON up to 8 after 4 hours. This value is in line with other photocatalytic systems using the same catalyst. Nevertheless, this system is entirely noble‐metal free.
Quantitative and Chemically Intuitive Evaluation of the Nature of M−L Bonds in Paramagnetic Compounds: Application of EDA‐NOCV Theory to Spin Crossover Complexes
Authors: Bondì Luca , Garden Anna L. , Jerabek Paul , Totti Federico , Brooker Sally
Published: July 2020

To improve understanding of M−L bonds in 3d transition metal complexes, analysis by energy decomposition analysis and natural orbital for chemical valence model (EDA‐NOCV) is desirable as it provides a full, quantitative and chemically intuitive ab initio description of the M−L interactions. In this study, a generally applicable fragmentation and computational protocol was established and validated by using octahedral spin crossover (SCO) complexes, as the transition temperature (T1/2) is sensitive to subtle changes in M−L bonding. Specifically, EDA‐NOCV analysis of Fe−N bonds in five [FeII(Lazine)2(NCBH3)2], in both low‐spin (LS) and paramagnetic high‐spin (HS) states led to: 1) development of a general, widely applicable, corrected M+L6 fragmentation, tested against a family of five LS [FeII(Lazine)3](BF4)2 complexes; this confirmed that three Lazine are stronger ligands (ΔEorb,σ+π=−370 kcal mol−1) than 2 Lazine+2 NCBH3 (=−335 kcal mol−1), as observed. 2) Analysis of Fe−L bonding on LS→HS, reveals more ionic (ΔEelstat) and less covalent (ΔEorb) character (ΔEelstat:ΔEorb 55:45 LS→64:36 HS), mostly due to a big drop in σ (ΔEorb,σ ↓50 %; −310→−145 kcal mol−1), and a drop in π contributions (ΔEorb,π ↓90 %; −30→−3 kcal mol−1). 3) Strong correlation of observed T1/2 and ΔEorb,σ+π, for both LS and HS families (R2=0.99 LS, R2=0.95 HS), but no correlation of T1/2 and ΔΔEorb,σ+π(LS‐HS) (R2=0.11). Overall, this study has established and validated an EDA‐NOCV protocol for M−L bonding analysis of any diamagnetic or paramagnetic, homoleptic or heteroleptic, octahedral transition metal complex. This new and widely applicable EDA‐NOCV protocol holds great promise as a predictive tool.
DNA Alkylation of the RUNX‐Binding Sequence by CBI–PI Polyamide Conjugates**
Authors: Maeda Rina , Ito Shinji , Hashiya Kaori , Bando Toshikazu , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: July 2020

Many types of molecular targeted drugs that inhibit cancer growth by acting on specific molecules have been developed. The runt‐related transcription factor (RUNX) family, which induces cancer development by binding to a specific DNA sequence, has attracted attention as a new target for cancer treatment. We have developed Chb‐M′, which targets the RUNX‐binding sequence. Chb‐M′ was developed by conjugating pyrrole‐imidazole (PI) polyamides and chlorambucil as an anticancer agent. It was recently reported that Chb‐M′ had a remarkable anticancer effect in vivo. In this study, to explore the possibility of an alternative structure, we designed a new series of CBI–PI polyamides, in which seco‐CBI was applied as a DNA‐alkylating agent. We examined the characteristics of the CBI–PI polyamides targeting the RUNX‐binding sequence and found that these conjugates have great potential for cancer treatment.
New Supercage Metal–Organic Framework Based on Allopurinol Ligands Showing Acetylene Storage and Separation
Authors: Li Yong‐Zhi , Wang Gang‐Ding , Yang Hong‐Yun , Hou Lei , Wang Yao‐Yu , Zhu Zhonghua
Published: July 2020

To develop efficient adsorbent materials for storage and separation of C2H2, an unprecedented supercage MOF, [Me2NH2]⋅[Zn3(ALP)(TDC)2.5]⋅3.5DMF⋅2 H2O (1) was constructed through medicinal molecule allopurinol (ALP) and S‐containing 2,5‐thiophenedicarboxylic acid (H2TDC).1contains a novel linear trinuclear cluster that is composed by ALP and carboxylates and forms a final uncommon 5‐connectedyfytopological framework. The framework possesses three types of interlinked cages decorated by rich functional sites, and reveals not only high adsorption capacity for C2H2but also excellent selective separation for C2H2/CO2and C2H2/CH4at 298 K. Dynamic breakthrough experiments on C2H2/CO2(1:1) mixture and C2H2/CH4(1:1) mixture also demonstrated the potential of the material to separate C2H2from CO2or CH4mixtures. Molecular simulations were also studied to identify the different CO2‐ and C2H2‐ binding sites in1, such as carboxylate groups, S atoms and carbonyl groups.
Selective Hydrolysis of Terminal Glycosidic Bond in α‐1‐Acid Glycoprotein Promoted by Keggin and Wells–Dawson Type Heteropolyacids
Authors: Van Rompuy Laura S. , Moons Jens , Aelbers Jo , Struyf Tom , Van den Ende Wim , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: July 2020

The reactivity of a range of Keggin and Wells–Dawson type heteropolyacids (HPAs): H3PW12O40 H4SiW12O40, H3PMo12O40, K6P2W18O62, and NaH2W12O4, towards the heavily glycosylated α‐1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) is reported. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and high‐performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC‐PAD) show that after incubation of the protein with HPAs at 80 °C and pH 2.8 complete hydrolysis of terminal glycosidic bond has been achieved, resulting in the removal of sialic acids with no observed destruction of the protein core or the residual glycan chains. The 1H NMR spectroscopy confirmed that the released sialic acids preserve intact structure upon their excision from the protein, which makes the reported method suitable for the analysis of sialic acid modifications which play an important role in numerous biological processes. The presence of other sugars was not detected by 1H NMR and HPAEC‐PAD, suggesting that HPAs hydrolyze only the terminal glycosidic bond in the glycoprotein, resulting in the selective release of sialic acid from AGP. The kinetic results have shown that under equal temperature and pH conditions, the hydrolysis of the terminal glucosidic bond occurred faster in the presence of HPAs compared to conventional mineral acids. The observed rate constants were in the range 6,7×10−2 −11,9×10−2 min−1 and the complete and selective excision of sialic acids could be achieved within 60 min of incubation. The Trp fluorescence and CD spectroscopy show that non‐covalent interaction between HPA and protein takes place in solution which could lead to stabilization of the sialosyl cation that is formed during the glycosidic bond hydrolysis by anionic HPA cluster.
Geometrical Evolution and Formation of the Photoproduct in the Cycloreversion Reaction of a Diarylethene Derivative Probed by Vibrational Spectroscopy
Authors: Sotome Hikaru , Okajima Hajime , Nagasaka Tatsuhiro , Tachii Yuka , Sakamoto Akira , Kobatake Seiya , Irie Masahiro , Miyasaka Hiroshi
Published: July 2020

The front cover artwork is provided by the groups of Prof. Hiroshi Miyasaka (Osaka University, Japan), Prof. Masahiro Irie (Rikkyo University, Japan), Prof. Seiya Kobatake (Osaka City University, Japan) and Prof. Akira Sakamoto (Aoyama Gakuin University, Japan). The image shows the coherently vibrating closed form of a photochromic diarylethene derivative in the excited state, and subsequent structural evolution into the open form in the cycloreversion reaction. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202000315.
Comparison of benchtop and handheld near‐infrared spectroscopy devices to determine forage nutritive value
Authors: Acosta J. J. , Castillo M. S. , Hodge G. R.
Published: July 2020

The quality of predicted plant‐, soil‐, and animal‐response values from near‐infrared (NIR) reflectance spectra depends on the ability to generate appropriate NIR models. The first step in the development of NIR models is collection of spectral data. Limited work, however, has been reported that compares NIR models for prediction of forage nutritive value when the spectra are obtained from devices with different spectral ranges and resolutions. The objectives of this study were to (a) develop and evaluate NIR spectroscopy models using a benchtop‐type (FOSS) and two handheld NIR devices (microPHAZIR and DLP NIRscan Nano EVM) to predict crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), amylase and sodium sulfite‐treated neutral detergent fiber (aNDF), and in vitro true dry matter digestibility (IVTD) of dried ground forage grass samples and (b) compare predictions among the three NIR devices. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) and bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers] hay samples were scanned with the NIR devices and analyzed with wet chemistry for development of NIR prediction models. Among devices, the r2 of validation values for aNDF models ranged from .81 to .87; all other r2 values were >.86 and as high as .98 with standard error of prediction (SEP; g kg−1) ranging from 8.1 to 11.5 for CP, 19.1 to 23.8 for aNDF, 14.2 to 20.0 for ADF, and 26.8 to 49.9 for IVTD. The FOSS benchtop NIR prediction models consistently had the highest r2 and lowest SEP values; however, the predictive power for both handheld devices was similar to the benchtop‐type device.
Clippings return decreases mineral nitrogen requirements for bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) lawns in Mediterranean Europe
Authors: Schiavon Marco , Pornaro Cristina , Macolino Stefano
Published: July 2020

The use of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] and hybrid bermudagrass (C. dactylon x C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy) in lawns is rapidly increasing in Mediterranean Europe; however, the identification of optimal N fertilization practices is needed to shorten the long dormancy periods some cultivars undergo in these environments. A 2‐yr study was conducted at the agricultural experimental farm of Padova University from May 2016 until June 2018 to compare the effects of three N fertilization rates (160 kg N ha−1 without clippings returned, 80 kg N ha−1 with clippings returned, and 80 kg N ha−1 without clippings returned applied with a controlled‐release fertilizer) on two bermudagrass cultivars (‘La Paloma’, ‘Yukon’) and two hybrid bermudagrass cultivars (‘Patriot’, ‘Tifway’) by measuring summer and fall quality, spring green‐up, and root morphology. Bermudagrasses fertilized at 160 kg N ha−1 without clippings returned slightly increased turfgrass quality in the summer, but higher turf quality was recorded in plots fertilized at 80 kg N ha−1 with clippings returned after weekly mowing events in the fall. The same N rates had a positive effect on spring green‐up for ‘La Paloma’ and ‘Tifway’; however, no benefits of increased N rates were detected on root morphology. Results suggest that returning clippings can be a powerful tool for reducing mineral N applications and increase growing season length in northern Italy.
Deep Eutectic Solvent Extraction of High‐Purity Lignin from a Corn Stover Hydrolysate
Authors: Cronin Dylan J. , Chen Xiaowen , Moghaddam Lalehvash , Zhang Xiao
Published: July 2020

A lactic acid/chlorine chloride‐based deep eutectic solvent (DES) was used for the extraction of high‐purity lignin (up to 94.7 %) in high yield (up to 75 %) from the hydrolysis/fermentation residue corn stover hydrolysate (CSH), which was generated from a pilot‐plant‐scale biorefinery. A range of extraction conditions were investigated, which involved varying reaction temperature, time, and DES composition. The relationship between lignin yield, purity, and structural characteristics with DES treatment conditions was determined. The extraction of high‐purity lignin from hydrolysis/fermentation residues presents a promising approach for enhancing the economic feasibility of a lignocellulose biorefinery. It was also determined that DES extraction can produce lignin with a controlled range of molecular weight and functional group content.
Advances in Organic Anode Materials for Na‐/K‐Ion Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Desai Aamod V. , Morris Russell E. , Armstrong A. Robert
Published: July 2020

Electrochemical energy storage (EES) devices are gaining ever greater prominence in the quest for global energy security. With increasing applications and widening scope, rechargeable battery technology is gradually finding avenues for more abundant and sustainable systems such as Na‐ion (NIB) and K‐ion batteries (KIB). Development of suitable electrode materials lies at the core of this transition. Organic redox‐active molecules are attractive candidates as negative electrode materials owing to their low redox potentials and the fact that they can be obtained from biomass. Also, the rich structural diversity allows integration into several solid‐state polymeric materials. Research in this domain is increasingly focused on deploying molecular engineering to address specific electrochemical limitations that hamper competition with rival materials. This Minireview aims to summarize the advances in both the electrochemical properties and the materials development of organic anode materials.
Good taste or gut feeling? A new method in rats shows oro‐sensory stimulation and gastric distention generate distinct and overlapping brain activation patterns
Authors: Roelofs Theresia J. M. , Luijendijk Mieneke C. M. , van der Toorn Annette , Camps Guido , Smeets Paul A. M. , Dijkhuizen Rick M. , Adan Roger A. H.
Published: July 2020

Satiation is influenced by a variety of signals including gastric distention and oro‐sensory stimulation. Here we developed a high‐field (9.4 T) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) protocol to test how oro‐sensory stimulation and gastric distention, as induced with a block‐design paradigm, affect brain activation under different states of energy balance in rats. Repeated tasting of sucrose induced positive and negative fMRI responses in the ventral tegmental area and septum, respectively, and gradual neural activation in the anterior insula and the brain stem nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), as revealed using a two‐level generalized linear model‐based analysis. These unique findings align with comparable human experiments, and are now for the first time identified in rats, thereby allowing for comparison between species. Gastric distention induced more extensive brain activation, involving the insular cortex and NTS. Our findings are largely in line with human studies that have shown that the NTS is involved in processing both visceral information and taste, and anterior insula in processing sweet taste oro‐sensory signals. Gastric distention and sucrose tasting induced responses in mesolimbic areas, to our knowledge not previously detected in humans, which may reflect the rewarding effects of a full stomach and sweet taste, thereby giving more insight into the processing of sensory signals leading to satiation. The similarities of these data to human neuroimaging data demonstrate the translational value of the approach and offer a new avenue to deepen our understanding of the process of satiation in healthy people and those with eating disorders.
BRCC36 functions noncatalytically to promote antiviral response by maintaining STAT1 protein stability
Authors: Cheng Qiao , Feng Qian , Xu Yang , Zuo Yibo , Liu Jin , Yuan Yukang , Miao Ying , Liu Yin , Lei Lei , Guo Tingting , Zhang Liting , Wu Depei , Zheng Hui
Published: July 2020

Viral infection is a serious threat to both normal population and clinical patients. STAT1 plays central roles in host defense against viral infection. How STAT1 protein maintains stable in different conditions remains largely unknown. Here, we identified BRCC36 as a potent regulator of STAT1 protein stability. Mechanistically, BRCC36 maintains STAT1 levels by utilizing USP13 to form a balanced complex for antagonizing Smurf1‐mediated degradation. Importantly, cellular BRCC36 deficiency results in rapid downregulation of STAT1 during viral infection, whereas a supplement of BRCC36 maintains STAT1 protein levels and host antiviral immunity in vivo. Moreover, we revealed that BRCC36 expression was downregulated in allogeneic HSC transplantation (allo‐HSCT) mice that showed increased susceptibility to viral infection. Supplementing BRCC36 enhanced antiviral response of allo‐HSCT mice by maintaining STAT1 stability. This study uncovers a critical role of BRCC36 in STAT1 protein stability and could provide potential strategies for enhancing clinical antiviral therapy.
Intestinal microbiota disruption limits the isoniazid mediated clearance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in mice
Authors: Negi Shikha , Pahari Susanta , Bashir Hilal , Agrewala Javed N.
Published: July 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to remain a global threat due to the emergence of drug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strains and toxicity associated with TB drugs. Intestinal microbiota has been reported to affect the host response to immunotherapy and drugs. However, how it affects the potency of first‐line TB drug isoniazid (INH) is largely unknown. Here, we examined the impact of gut microbial dysbiosis on INH efficiency to kill Mtb. In this study, we employed in vivo mouse model, pretreated with broad‐spectrum antibiotics (Abx) cocktail to disrupt their intestinal microbial population prior to Mtb infection and subsequent INH therapy. We demonstrated that microbiota disruption results in the impairment of INH‐mediated Mtb clearance, and aggravated TB‐associated tissue pathology. Further, it suppressed the innate immunity and reduced CD4 T‐cell response against Mtb. Interestingly, a distinct shift of gut microbial profile was noted with abundance of Enterococcus and reduction of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium population. Our results show that the intestinal microbiota is crucial determinant in efficacy of INH to kill Mtb and impacts the host immune response against infection. This work provides an intriguing insight into the potential links between host gut microbiota and potency of INH.
1,3,5‐Triazinanes as Formaldimine Surrogates in the Ugi Reaction
Authors: Golubev Pavel , Guranova Natalia , Krasavin Mikhail
Published: July 2020

In the present study, a new synthetic strategy towards N‐acylated glycinamides was developed by the use of 1,3,5‐triazinanes as formaldimine surrogates in the Ugi reaction. The targeted products were obtained in a combinatorial, diversity‐oriented fashion in good yields. Further modifications allowed us to adapt this procedure for the one‐pot two‐step syntheses of a local anesthetic druglidocaine and several unsymmetrically substituted diketopiperazines.
A Decade of Muricatacin Synthesis and Beyond
Authors: Fernandes Rodney A. , Gangani Ashvin J. , Kumari Anupama , Kumar Praveen
Published: July 2020

In this review, we have abstracted the various syntheses of both enantiomers of muricatacin (a member of a bigger class of acetogenins, ACGs), over the last decade (2010–2020). Developments in the synthesis of various epimers, homologues, oxa‐analogues, δ‐lactones, and the furofuranone analogues are also enfolded in this review. Most of the synthesis involve chiral pool and catalytic enantioselective approaches, while a few are hinged on the use of chiral auxiliary and resolution methods. Muricatacin with orthogonally differentiated two oxy‐functions also serve as a start point in the synthesis of higher molecules of the acetogenin family, for example, cis‐solamins, and these have also been covered herein.
One‐Pot Protection Strategy of Glucosamine to Assemble Building Blocks of Chitosan and Lipid A
Authors: Chen Jyun‐Siao , Pantawane Amit Ravindra , Huang Po‐Hsun , Liu Jen‐Wei , Sankar Arumugam , Lin Yi‐Jyun , Liu Yu‐Hao , Wu Hsin‐Ru , Luo Shun‐Yuan
Published: July 2020

This investigation describes a one‐pot reaction to prepare a series of building blocks for glycosylation reactions, such as 3‐alcohol glucosamines, fully protected glucosamines, O‐4 and O‐6 alcohol glucosamines. These reactions readily produce not only glycosyl donors and acceptors, but also different glycosyl units that can be changed based on the needs of the experiment. The synthesis of some molecules containing glucosamines, including saccharide chains of glycopeptide (GP) and precursors of lipid A disaccharide backbone, are also described. GP has good selectivity for tumor angiogenesis and this phenomenon makes the GP a potential target drug. Lipid A has recently been adopted as an adjuvant for human vaccines.
Dual Responsive Disposable Electrode for the Enumeration of Escherichia coli in Whole Blood
Authors: Panhwar Sallahuddin , Ilhan Hasan , Hassan Syeda Sara , Zengin Adem , Boyacı Ismail Hakkı , Tamer Ugur
Published: July 2020

In this report, we have designed a dual responsive disposable electrode for the enumeration of Escherichia coli K12 (E. coli K12). The immunomagnetic separation strategy provided easily bacterial detection in the whole blood. Metal‐organic frameworks magnetic (MOFs) modified, and citrate capped gold nanoparticles were used as capture probe and spectro‐electrochemical labels, respectively. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) was employed to quantify E. coli with a ranging from 101 to 107 cfu/mL with a LOD of 1 cfu/mL. The Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) measurements were also performed with using disposable electrode.
Debating responsibility‐sharing: An analysis of the European Parliament's debates on the Common European Asylum System
Authors: Kaufmann David
Published: July 2020

The Common European Asylum System (CEAS) has failed to ensure effective protection in times of high numbers of asylum seekers. CEAS reforms have not successfully introduced responsibility‐sharing mechanisms that can balance the effects of the Dublin Regulation's allocation rules. This paper analyzed the absence of substantial CEAS reforms by examining the discursive strategies used by Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in asylum reform debates during the European Parliament's (EP) seventh legislative term (2009–2014). The mixed‐methods analysis revealed that: (a) MEPs across the political spectrum argued in favor of responsibility‐sharing, (b) MEPs from south‐eastern border European Union Member States were prone to use solidarity discursive strategies to speak in favor of responsibility‐sharing, (c) and that MEPs aligned their discursive strategies to the actual responsibility‐sharing mechanisms under discussion. These findings point to substantive and problem‐oriented debates in the EP. Yet, these debates did not translate into essential CEAS reforms.
Diagnosis of digestive system tumours
Authors: Washington Mary Kay , Goldberg Richard M. , Chang George J. , Limburg Paul , Lam Alfred K. , Salto‐Tellez Manuel , Arends Mark J. , Nagtegaal Iris D. , Klimstra David S. , Rugge Massimo , Schirmacher Peter , Lazar Alexander J. , Odze Robert D. , Carneiro Fatima , Fukayama Masashi , Cree Ian A. ,   WHO Classification of Tumours Editorial Board
Published: July 2020

The WHO Classification of Tumours provides the international standards for the classification and diagnosis of tumours. It enables direct comparisons to be made between different countries. In the new fifth edition, the series has gone digital with the launch of a website as well as a series of books, known widely as the WHO Blue Books. The first volume to be produced is on the classification of Digestive System tumours, replacing the successful 2010 version. It has been rewritten and updated accordingly. This article summarises the major diagnostic innovations that have occurred over the last decade and that have now been incorporated in the classification. As an example, it incorporates the recently proposed classification of neuroendocrine tumours, based on the recognition that neuroendocrine tumours and carcinomas differ substantially in the genetic abnormalities that drive their growth, findings relevant to treatment selection and outcome prediction. Several themes have emerged during the production process. One is the importance of the progression from hyperplasia to dysplasia to carcinoma in the evolution of the malignant process. Advances in imaging techniques and endoscopy have resulted in enhanced access to precancerous lesions in the gastrointestinal and biliary tract, necessitating both changes in classification schema and clinical practice. Diagnosis of tumours is no longer the sole purview of pathologists, and some patients now receive treatment before tissue is obtained, based on clinical, radiological and liquid biopsy results. This makes the classification relevant to many disciplines involved in the care of patients with tumours of the digestive system.
Category of evidence and consensus underlying National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines: Is there evidence of progress?
Authors: Desai Aakash P. , Go Ronald S. , Poonacha Thejaswi K.
Published: July 2020

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines are the most comprehensive and widely used standard for clinical care, financial reimbursements and quality improvement initiatives in oncology. We studied the distribution of categories of evidence and consensus (EC) in the guidelines for the common cancers in the United States. We evaluated the EC categories in staging, therapy and surveillance recommendations in 2019 guidelines and compared them with the same in 2010. The latest 2019 version of NCCN guidelines were obtained. The definitions for various categories of EC used were, Category 1 (high level evidence, uniform consensus), Category 2A (lower level of evidence [LOE], uniform consensus), Category 2B (lower LOE, no uniform consensus but with no major disagreement) and Category 3 (any LOE, major disagreement). We compared our results with previously published results from 2010 guidelines. Total number of recommendations increased by 77% from 1023 (2010) to 1818 (2019). Of the 1818 recommendations, Category 1, 2A, 2B and 3 EC were 7%, 87%, 6% and 0%, respectively, while in 2010 they were 6%, 83%, 10% and 1%. Breast (30%), lung (10%) and kidney (10%) cancer had the highest proportions of Category 1 therapeutic recommendations in their respective guidelines. No Category 1 recommendations were found in screening or surveillance guidelines or in pancreatic and uterine cancer guidelines. Recommendations in 2019 NCCN guidelines are largely Category 2A (lower levels of evidence, uniform expert opinion), unchanged from the previous study in 2010.
Serological chemiluminescence immunoassay for the diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Lijia Shao , Lihong Shen , Huabin Wang , Xiaoping Xu , Xiaodong Lu , Yixuan Zhu , Pin He , Yina Xu , Xiaoyun Shan , Junqi Wu
Published: July 2020

Objective

Dynamic monitoring of the concentration variation of IgM and IgG in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infections and exploring their diagnostic value for coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19).

Methods

A total of 15 patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were enrolled as the COVID‐19 group, and 50 patients were enrolled as the control group. The concentrations of SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) were detected by a chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA).

Results

According to the cutoff value recommended by the manufacturer (cutoff = 10 AU/mL), the sensitivity, specificity, Youden index (YI), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of IgM were 60%, 100%, 60%, 100%, and 89.29%, respectively; and 86.67%, 100%, 86.67%, 100%, and 96.15%, respectively, for IgG. We reassessed the cutoff value of IgM. When the cutoff value for SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM was 1.83 AU/mL, the sensitivity, specificity, YI, PPV, and NPV were 93.33%, 98%, 91.33%, 93.33%, and 98%, respectively. During dynamic monitoring of the concentrations of IgM and IgG in COVID‐19 patients, we found the shortest times before a patient became IgM and IgG seropositive after symptom onset were 1.5 and 2 days, respectively. The longest times were 7 and 8 days, respectively. The positive rates of SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM and IgG both reached 100% in 8‐14 days after symptom onset.

Conclusion

The IgM cutoff value of 1.83 AU/mL for the diagnosis of COVID‐19 was much better than the cutoff suggested by the manufacturer. SARS‐CoV‐2 infection can be ruled out if antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 are still undetectable 14 days after symptom onset.
Association between detectable SARS‐COV‐2 RNA in anal swabs and disease severity in patients with coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Lin Weiyin , Xie Zhiwei , Li Yueping , Li Liya , Wen Chunyan , Cao Yi , Chen Xiaoting , Ou Xu , Hu Fengyu , Li Feng , Tang Xiaoping , Cai Weiping , Li Linghua
Published: July 2020

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) RNA was found in the intestines and feces, but its clinical significance is not completely clear. We aim to characterize the longitudinal test results of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in anal swabs and to explore the association with disease severity.

Methods

We included laboratory‐confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients, who were hospitalized in Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital and excluded those who had not received anal swabs for SARS‐COV‐2 RNA testing. Epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory data were obtained. Throat swabs and anal swabs were collected periodically for SARS‐COV‐2 RNA detection.

Results

Two hundred and seventeen eligible patients (median aged 50 years, 50.2% were females) were analyzed. 21.2% (46/217) of the patients were detected with SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in anal swabs. The duration of viral RNA was longer, but the viral load was lower in anal swabs than throat swabs in the early stage of the disease. During a median follow‐up of 20 days, 30 (13.8%) patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for high‐flow nasal cannula or higher‐level oxygen support measures to correct hypoxemia. Detectable viral RNA in anal swabs (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20‐5.24), increased C‐reactive protein (aHR, 3.14; 95% CI, 1.35‐7.32) and lymphocytopenia (aHR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.46‐6.67) were independently associated with ICU admission. The cumulative incidence of ICU admission was higher among patients with detectable viral RNA in anal swabs (26.3% vs 10.7%, P = .006).

Conclusion

Detectable SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in the digestive tract was a potential warning indicator of severe disease.
Tocilizumab for the treatment of adult patients with severe COVID‐19 pneumonia: A single‐center cohort study
Authors: Fernández‐Ruiz Mario , López‐Medrano Francisco , Pérez‐Jacoiste Asín María Asunción , Maestro de la Calle Guillermo , Bueno Héctor , Caro‐Teller José Manuel , Catalán Mercedes , de la Calle Cristina , García‐García Rocío , Gómez Carlos , Laguna‐Goya Rocío , Lizasoáin Manuel , Martínez‐López Joaquín , Origüen Julia , Pablos José Luis , Ripoll Mar , San Juan Rafael , Trujillo Hernando , Lumbreras Carlos , Aguado José María
Published: July 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can lead to a massive cytokine release. The use of the anti‐interleukin‐6 receptor monoclonal antibody tocilizumab (TCZ) has been proposed in this hyperinflammatory phase, although supporting evidence is limited. We retrospectively analyzed 88 consecutive patients with COVID‐19 pneumonia that received at least one dose of intravenous TCZ in our institution between 16 and 27 March 2020. Clinical status from day 0 (first TCZ dose) through day 14 was assessed by a 6‐point ordinal scale. The primary outcome was clinical improvement (hospital discharge and/or a decrease of ≥2 points on the 6‐point scale) by day 7. Secondary outcomes included clinical improvement by day 14 and dynamics of vital signs and laboratory values. Rates of clinical improvement by days 7 and 14 were 44.3% (39/88) and 73.9% (65/88). Previous or concomitant receipt of subcutaneous interferon‐β (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06‐0.94; P = .041) and serum lactate dehydrogenase more than 450 U/L at day 0 (aOR: 0.25; 95% CI: 0.06‐0.99; P = .048) were negatively associated with clinical improvement by day 7. All‐cause mortality was 6.8% (6/88). Body temperature and respiratory and cardiac rates significantly decreased by day 1 compared to day 0. Lymphocyte count and pulse oximetry oxygen saturation/FiO2 ratio increased by days 3 and 5, whereas C‐reactive protein levels dropped by day 2. There were no TCZ‐attributable adverse events. In this observational single‐center study, TCZ appeared to be useful and safe as immunomodulatory therapy for severe COVID‐19 pneumonia.
Regional differences in the effects of the ablation index and interlesion distance on acute electrical reconnections after pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Yazaki Kyoichiro , Ejima Koichiro , Higuchi Satoshi , Yagishita Daigo , Shoda Morio , Hagiwara Nobuhisa
Published: July 2020

Background

In pulmonary vein isolation, the regional differences in the ablation index (AI) and interlesion distance (ILD) remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the AI, ILD, and other relevant indices with pulmonary vein reconnections (PVRs) during the surgical intervention with a focus on the heterogeneous regional variability through a retrospective analysis.

Methods

We divided the wide area circumferential ablation (WACA) region into 12 segments in 32 consecutive patients, which resulted in a 384 segment analysis to evaluate the association of the minimum AI (AI min) and maximum ILD (ILD max) with acute PVRs, which were defined as spontaneous PVRs or dormant conduction after adenosine triphosphate administration.

Results

Acute PVRs were observed in 48 (13%) segments and 40 (63%) WACA regions. The AI min was significantly lower and ILD max greater in segments with PVRs than in those without (372 vs 403 au and 6.5 vs 5.7 mm, respectively). PVRs were more frequent in the left posterior segments, adjacent to the esophagus, than in other segments (23% vs 10%, respectively). Notably, ILD max was significantly greater in the left posterior segments with acute PVRs with AI min < 297 (median; 6.5 vs 5.1 mm); a similar finding was not observed when with AI min ≥ 297.

Conclusion

Smaller ILD may prevent acute PVRs when the AI min is low in the left posterior segments.
Cancer outcomes are independent of preoperative CA 19‐9 in anatomically resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: A retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Kim Joon Kyung , DePeralta Danielle K. , Ogami Takuya , Denbo Jason W. , Pimiento Jose , Hodul Pamela J. , Malafa Mokenge P. , Kim Dae W. , Fleming Jason B. , Powers Benjamin D.
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives

Current guidelines recommend neoadjuvant therapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients with anatomically resectable tumors but elevated CA 19‐9. However, this recommendation is based on data from anatomically resectable and borderline resectable PDAC patients. Therefore, we analyzed the association of preoperative CA 19‐9 with oncologic outcomes in a cohort of anatomically resectable PDAC patients.

Methods

A single‐institution PDAC database from 2007 to 2015 included patients who underwent guideline‐based staging and were anatomically resectable. Patients with bilirubin above 1.5 after decompression, nonsecretors of CA 19‐9, and borderline resectable patients were excluded. Statistical analysis included frequency testing and regression modeling for recurrence and survival.

Results

One hundred forty‐four PDAC patients were identified; 16 (11.1%) had elevated preoperative CA 19‐9 ≥ 1000. A CA 19‐9 level ≥1000 was not associated with demographic, clinical, or pathological factors. After adjustment for potential confounders, CA 19‐9 levels (continuous, median, 500 U/mL, or 1000 U/mL cut‐offs) were not associated with recurrence or overall survival (OS).

Conclusions

Although guidelines recommend CA 19‐9 to determine the management of anatomically resectable PDAC patients, CA 19‐9 was not associated with recurrence or OS in this cohort. Our findings do not suggest that CA 19‐9 alone should determine the PDAC treatment strategy.
Littlewood–Paley characterization of BMO and Triebel–Lizorkin spaces
Authors: Tselishchev Anton , Vasilyev Ioann
Published: July 2020

We prove a generalization of the Littlewood–Paley characterisation of the BMO space where the shifts of a Schwartz function are replaced by a family of functions with suitable conditions imposed on them. We also prove that a certain family of Triebel–Lizorkin spaces can be characterized in a similar way.