bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature as an Extra Dimension in Multidimensional Protein NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Shchukina Alexandra , Małecki Paweł , Mateos Borja , Nowakowski Michał , Urbańczyk Mateusz , Kontaxis Georg , Kasprzak Paweł , Conrad‐Billroth Clara , Konrat Robert , Kazimierczuk Krzysztof
Published: September 2020

NMR spectroscopy is a particularly informative method for studying protein structures and dynamics in solution; however, it is also one of the most time‐consuming. Modern approaches to biomolecular NMR spectroscopy are based on lengthy multidimensional experiments, the duration of which grows exponentially with the number of dimensions. The experimental time may even be several days in the case of 3D and 4D spectra. Moreover, the experiment often has to be repeated under several different conditions, for example, to measure the temperature‐dependent effects in a spectrum (temperature coefficients (TCs)). Herein, a new approach that involves joint sampling of indirect evolution times and temperature is proposed. This allows TCs to be measured through 3D spectra in even less time than that needed to acquire a single spectrum by using the conventional approach. Two signal processing methods that are complementary, in terms of sensitivity and resolution, 1) dividing data into overlapping subsets followed by compressed sensing reconstruction, and 2) treating the complete data set with a variant of the Radon transform, are proposed. The temperature‐swept 3D HNCO spectra of two intrinsically disordered proteins, osteopontin and CD44 cytoplasmic tail, show that this new approach makes it possible to determine TCs and their non‐linearities effectively. Non‐linearities, which indicate the presence of a compact state, are particularly interesting. The complete package of data acquisition and processing software for this new approach are provided.
Exploring Oxidative NHC‐Catalysis as Organocatalytic Polymerization Strategy towards Polyamide Oligomers
Authors: Ragno Daniele , Brandolese Arianna , Di Carmine Graziano , Buoso Sara , Belletti Giada , Leonardi Costanza , Bortolini Olga , Bertoldo Monica , Massi Alessandro
Published: September 2020

The polycondensation of diamines and dialdehydes promoted by an N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyst in the presence of a quinone oxidant and hexafluoro‐2‐propanol (HFIP) is herein presented for the synthesis of oligomeric polyamides (PAs), which are obtained with a number‐average molecular weight (Mn) in the range of 1.7–3.6 kg mol−1 as determined by NMR analysis. In particular, the utilization of furanic dialdehyde monomers (2,5‐diformylfuran, DFF; 5,5’‐[oxybis(methylene)]bis[2‐furaldehyde], OBFA) to access known and previously unreported biobased PAs is illustrated. The synthesis of higher molecular weight PAs (poly(decamethylene terephthalamide, PA10T, Mn = 62.8 kg mol−1; poly(decamethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylamide, PA10F, Mn = 6.5 kg mol−1) by a two‐step polycondensation approach is also described. The thermal properties (TGA and DSC analyses) of the synthesized PAs are reported.
Gas Fermentation Expands the Scope of a Process Network for Material Conversion
Authors: Geinitz Bertram , Hüser Aline , Mann Marcel , Büchs Jochen
Published: September 2020

Biotechnological fermentation is a well‐established process, however, it is far from being fully understood and exploited. A new area of fermentation technology that has evolved over the recent decades is gas fermentation. Many microorganisms have been reported in literature to be capable of utilizing a variety of gases such as CO, CO2, H2, and CH4 under anaerobic or aerobic conditions as their main carbon and/or energy source. Mostly waste stream gases from industrial plants or those that can be produced via the gasification of solids are investigated. This review focuses on the currently available scientific knowledge about gas fermentation processes, particularly anaerobic syngas fermentation and aerobic methane fermentation. Gas fermentation processes are compared with aerobic and anaerobic fermentation processes based on dissolved solid substrates. Also, the potential of gas fermentation when integrated into a biotechnological network of processes is outlined.
Enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity of Cl‐Bi2WO6/g‐C3N4 composite photocatalyst
Authors: Gao Yanhua , Yang Wei , Shan Xinyao , Chen Ying
Published: September 2020

In this paper, ultra‐thin g‐C3N4 nanosheets were prepared by improved ultrasonic stripping method for the first time. Then, g‐C3N4 nanosheets were pretreated into Bi+/g‐C3N4 nanosheets by electrostatic adsorption principle, and a new type of Cl‐Bi2WO6/g‐C3N4 heterostructure photocatalyst was prepared by using Bi+/g‐C3N4 nanosheets as the substrate. The degradation of RhB under photocatalysis was studied with the compound amount of g‐C3N4 and the amount of catalyst by using x‐ray diffraction (XRD), a scanning electron microscope (SEM), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer Emmett‐Teller (BET), and ultraviolet visible diffuse (UV‐vis DRS) methods on the structure, morphology, and optical characterization charge transfer characteristics, etc. The results of the degradation experiment show that the compound appropriate amount of g‐C3N4 can significantly improve the activity of the photocatalyst. At the same time, different amounts of Cl‐Bi2WO6/g‐C3N4 composite photocatalyst have a significant effect on the degradation performance, and the photocatalytic activity is the best when the input is 2 g/L. Combined with active species capture experiments, a possible degradation mechanism of Cl‐Bi2WO6/g‐C3N4 Z‐type heterostructure photocatalyst was proposed.
Impact of gender: Rivaroxaban for patients with atrial fibrillation in the XANTUS real‐world prospective study
Authors: Camm A. John , Amarenco Pierre , Haas Sylvia , Bach Miriam , Kirchhof Paulus , Kuhls Silvia , Lambelet Marc , Turpie Alexander G.G. ,   XANTUS Investigators
Published: September 2020

Background

The XANTUS study (NCT01606995) demonstrated low rates of stroke and major bleeding in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) receiving rivaroxaban in clinical practice for the prevention of thromboembolic events (N = 6784).

Hypothesis

Because previous real‐world studies have not reported gender‐dependent responses to rivaroxaban treatment, this sub‐analysis of the XANTUS study investigated the effect of gender on outcomes.

Methods

The centrally adjudicated outcomes were compared between genders. Primary outcomes were major bleeding and all‐cause death. Secondary outcomes included symptomatic thromboembolic events. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the effect of risk factors on outcomes between genders.

Results

A total of 2765 female and 4016 male patients were included in the analysis. Baseline characteristics were generally similar. No nominally significant interaction between gender and risk factors for the study outcomes was observed. Rates of major bleeding, all‐cause death and symptomatic thromboembolic events in patients with non‐valvular AF receiving rivaroxaban for stroke prevention were similar in men and women; no significant differences in risk factors for these outcomes were observed between genders.

Conclusions

Further research is needed to better characterize the relative importance of different risk factors on outcomes in men vs women and to determine whether gender differences exist in patients treated with non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants.
Distance to treatment center is associated with survival in children and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Rotz Seth J. , Wei Wei , Thomas Stefanie M. , Hanna Rabi
Published: September 2020

Background

Socioeconomic and demographic categories such as income, race, insurance status, and treatment center type are associated with outcomes in acute leukemia. This study was aimed at determining whether the distance to treatment center affects overall survival for children and young adults with acute leukemia.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients 39 years old or younger who were diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). A backward elimination procedure was used to select final multivariate Cox models.

Results

In total, 12,301 patients with AML and 22,683 patients with ALL were analyzed. The ALL model included distance to treatment center, Charlson‐Deyo score, age, race, insurance status, and community income level. US census definitions of urban and rural were not statistically significant, and no interaction was significant for included variables. Compared with distances > 50 miles, all other distances were associated with improved survival (hazard ratio [HR] for ≤10 miles, 0.91; P = .04; HR for >10 to ≤20 miles, 0.86; P = .004; HR for >20 to ≤50 miles, 0.87; P = .005). The final model for AML included the same variables as the ALL model except for distance to treatment center, which was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

For children and young adults with ALL, distances > 50 miles are associated with inferior overall survival; however, no difference is seen for AML. Although it is unknown whether differences in survival for patients with ALL based on distance are driven by relapse or treatment‐related mortality, increased attention to adherence, supportive care, and logistics for patients traveling long distances is warranted.

Lay Summary

For children and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, living more than 50 miles from the treatment center is associated with worse outcomes.
Composite firefly algorithm for breast cancer recognition
Authors: Peng Hu , Zhu Wenhua , Deng Changshou , Yu Kun , Wu Zhijian
Published: September 2020

Breast cancer is the most common tumor that seriously threatens the life of women. However, with imprecise measure methods, the detection results are not reliable enough, and this will bring more pain and cost to patients. Therefore, accurate identification of breast cancer is a very important issue. To tackle this problem, a composite firefly algorithm (named CoFA) is proposed, in which each firefly is attracted compositely by the best and two randomly selected fireflies. First, the composite attraction method increases the probability that the current firefly generates better solution. In addition, the two fireflies are randomly selected, whatever they are better or worse than current firefly, the population diversity can be improved. The proposed CoFA has been tested on several breast cancer datasets derived from UCI. Experimental results verified that CoFA significantly improves the recognition accuracy.
Optimized Transgene Delivery Using Third‐Generation Lentiviruses
Authors: Gill Katherine P. , Denham Mark
Published: September 2020

The lentivirus system enables efficient genetic modification of both dividing and non‐dividing cells and therefore is a useful tool for elucidating developmental processes and disease pathogenesis. The development of third‐generation lentiviruses has resulted in improved biosafety, low immunogenicity, and substantial packaging capabilities. However, because third‐generation lentiviruses require successful co‐transfection with four plasmids, this typically means that lower titers are attained. This is problematic, as it is often desirable to produce purified lentiviruses with high titers (>1 × 108TU/ml), especially for in vivo applications. The manufacturing process for lentiviruses involves several critical experimental factors that can influence titer, purity, and transduction efficiency. Here, we describe a straightforward, stepwise protocol for the reproducible manufacture of high‐titer third‐generation lentiviruses (1 × 108to 1 × 109TU/ml). This optimized protocol enhances transgene expression by use of Lipofectamine transfection and optimized serum replacement medium, a single ultracentrifugation step, use of a sucrose cushion, and addition of a histone deacetylation inhibitor. Furthermore, we provide alternate methods for titration analyses, including functional and genomic integration analyses, using common laboratory techniques such as FACS as well as genomic DNA extraction and qPCR. These optimized methods will be beneficial for investigating developmental processes and disease pathogenesis in vitro and in vivo. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Lentivirus production

Support Protocol: Lentivirus concentration

Basic Protocol 2: Lentivirus titration

Alternate Protocol 1: Determination of viral titration by FACS analysis

Alternate Protocol 2: Determination of viral titration by genome integration analysis
General and specific combining ability for cane yield and implications for sugarcane breeding
Authors: Zhou Marvellous
Published: September 2020

General combining ability (GCA) referencing additive genetic effects and specific combining ability (SCA) referencing nonadditive effects have been applied for decades in maize (Zea mays L.) breeding and other crops to produce greater genetic gains in crop breeding. This study examined the magnitude of GCA and SCA for cane yield and evaluated potential for application in sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) breeding. Data were collected from unselected first‐stage breeding populations sourced from the irrigated, midlands (high‐altitude), and coastal breeding programs of the South African Sugarcane Research Institute. Cane yield data calculated from number of stalks, stalk height, and stalk diameter was analyzed using best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) analysis where female and male effects (GCA) and female × male interaction effects (SCA) were defined as random effects. There were significant (P < .05) female but nonsignificant male effects. Female × male interaction was highly significant (P < .001) and larger than both female and male effects, indicating higher SCA than GCA. Specific combining ability variance was 24% (midlands), 31% (coastal), and 57% (irrigated) higher than GCA. Genotypes with low GCA produced higher SCA. Crosses from parents originating from different breeding backgrounds produced higher SCA than those from the same backgrounds. Crosses with significant SCA produced 24–42% greater cane yield than those with nonsignificant SCA. Using GCA to develop parents with high breeding values and SCA to evaluate parent cross combinations will maximize exploitation of heterosis in sugarcane breeding. The results suggest the possibility to develop heterotic groups that are diverse and complementary as a strategy to optimize utilization of SCA.
ESG and reputation: The case of sanctioned Italian banks
Authors: Murè Pina , Spallone Marco , Mango Fabiomassimo , Marzioni Stefano , Bittucci Lucilla
Published: September 2020

The aim of this paper is to investigate whether banks adopt Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices to reduce reputational damage due to financial penalties and whether the adoption of ESG factors can reduce the probability to receive sanctions. This study extends a previous research (Guerello et al., North American Journal of Economics and Finance, 2018, 48, 591–612) by including ESG scores as determinant of the probability to be sanctioned. The econometric analyses in this paper are based on a sample of 13 Italian banks for the years 2008–2018 and includes ESG scores provided by both Thomson Reuters and Bloomberg. The research shows that ESG score and the probability of sanctions are positively related. However, a careful analysis of causal directions clarifies the meaning of such positive relationship: receiving financial penalties is detrimental for banks reputations, therefore it's necessary for banks to improve their reputation through the adoption of ESG practices.
Photocatalytic H2 Production from Water by Metal‐free Dye‐sensitized TiO2 Semiconductors: The Role and Development Process of Organic Sensitizers
Authors: Huang Jian‐Feng , Lei Yang , Luo Teng , Liu Jun‐Min
Published: September 2020

The utilization of solar energy to produce hydrogen from water is showing increased importance and desirability in the field of artificial photosynthesis to produce clean and sustainable fuels. In a typical three‐component dye‐sensitized semiconductor system for photocatalysis, the dye sensitizer plays an essential role of energy antenna for harvesting visible light and promoting the reduction reaction to generate hydrogen. In recent decades, a lot of attention has focused on metal‐free organic sensitizers, which have the advantages of low cost, high molar extinction coefficient, good modifiability and, most importantly, ability to avoid the use of noble metal ions. This Review enumerates the design strategies, specific properties and photocatalytic performances of metal‐free sensitizers in the past 30 years and concludes their evolution process. The advantages of different types of metal‐free sensitizers are highlighted and the instructively enlightening experiences are systematic summarized.
Highly Efficient Solid‐State Hydrolysis of Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate by Mechanochemical Milling and Vapor‐Assisted Aging
Authors: Štrukil Vjekoslav
Published: September 2020

Despite significant methodological and technological advancements in chemical recycling of synthetic polymers, an efficient and quantitative conversion of post‐consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into terephthalic acid (TPA) under ambient conditions of temperature and pressure still remains a challenge. In this respect, the application of mechanochemistry and multiple advantages offered by solid‐state ball milling and vapor‐assisted aging have remained insufficiently explored. To further expand their potential, the implementation of organic solvent‐free milling as a superior methodology for successful alkaline depolymerization of waste PET (e. g., bottles and textile) into TPA monomer in near‐quantitative yields was reported herein. The solid‐state alkaline PET hydrolysis was also shown to proceed in excellent yields under aging conditions in humid environment or in the presence of alcohol vapors. Moreover, the performance of mechanochemical ball milling and aging in the gram‐scale depolymerization of PET into TPA was demonstrated.
Disease extent and anti‐tubercular treatment response correlates with Mycobacterium tuberculosis‐specific CD4 T‐cell phenotype regardless of HIV‐1 status
Authors: Riou Catherine , Du Bruyn Elsa , Ruzive Sheena , Goliath Rene T , Lindestam Arlehamn Cecilia S , Sette Alessandro , Sher Alan , Barber Daniel L , Wilkinson Robert J
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The development of non‐sputum‐based assays for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment monitoring is a key priority. Recent data indicate that whole blood‐based assays to assess the phenotype of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)‐specific CD4 T cells hold promise for this purpose and require further investigation in well‐characterised TB cohorts. In this study, we investigated the relationship between the phenotypic signature of Mtb‐specific CD4 responses, TB disease extent and treatment response.

Methods

Using flow cytometry, we measured the expression of phenotypic and functional markers (HLA‐DR, CD27, CD153, KLRG1, IL‐2, MIP‐1β, TNF‐α and IFN‐γ) on Mtb‐specific CD4 T‐cells in whole blood from 161 participants of varying TB and HIV status. TB disease extent was graded as a continuum using the Xpertct value, C‐reactive protein, Timika radiographic score and monocyte/lymphocyte ratio.

Results

The phenotypic profile of Mtb‐specific CD4 T cells pre‐anti‐tubercular treatment (ATT) strongly correlated with disease extent, irrespective of HIV status. ATT associated with major changes in the phenotype of Mtb‐specific CD4 T cells, with decreased expression of HLA‐DR and increased CD27 and CD153 expression. Principal component analysis showed an almost complete separation between latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB (aTB) pre‐ATT groups, whereas the profile of the aTB post‐ATT group overlapped with the LTBI group. However, in patients experiencing treatment failure or relapse, no significant changes were observed in Mtb‐specific CD4 T‐cell phenotype pre‐ and post‐ATT.

Conclusion

Whole blood‐based assays of Mtb‐specific CD4 T‐cell activation and maturation markers can be used as non‐sputum‐based biomarkers of disease extent and treatment monitoring in TB, regardless of HIV‐1 status.
Squash smear cytology of pituitary granular cell tumor: A case report and review of literature with special emphasis on cytological differential diagnosis in pituitary region
Authors: Khurana Ujjawal , Shrivastava Adesh , Jain Rubal , Goel Garima , Joshi Deepti , Kapoor Neelkamal
Published: September 2020

Neurohypophysis granular cell tumor (NGCT) is a rare entity and is classified under thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF‐1) expressing tumors of pituitary. It is considered as an uncommon differential during sellar and suprasellar mass evaluation. Its intraoperative squash cytology is distinct and has rarely been reported in literature. A 65‐year‐old female presented with reduced vision of right eye and history of seizures. Radiological findings revealed a sellar/suprasellar mass with mass effect on optic chiasma. Intraoperative squash neurocytology examination showed a spindle cell lesion with abundant granular cytoplasm in tumor cells. Subsequent histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of granular cell tumor. Granular cell tumor remains one of the sellar/suprasellar surprises. Its intraoperative neurocytology is unique and should be considered while evaluating a sellar/suprasellar mass. A case of sellar granular cell tumor with its intraoperative squash cytology, histopathology along with a review of literature is being presented with special emphasis on cytological differential diagnosis in pituitary region.
New multitarget directed benzimidazole‐2‐thiol‐based heterocycles as prospective anti‐radical and anti‐Alzheimer's agents
Authors: Latif Abdul , Bibi Samina , Ali Sardar , Ammara Ammara , Ahmad Manzoor , Khan Ajmal , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed , Ullah Farhat , Ali Mumtaz
Published: September 2020

A series of new heterocycles (4–18) was synthesized by the structural modification of benzimidazole‐2‐thiol (BT, 2‐MBI). The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed with the help of high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and 1HNMR spectroscopy. High inhibitions of the oxidants such as ABTS and DPPH were observed for compounds 9 [IC50(s) = 167.4 μM (ABTS), 139.5 μM (DPPH)], 10 [IC50(s) = 186.5 μM (ABTS), 155.4 μM (DPPH)], 11 [IC50(s) = 286.1 μM (ABTS), 189.1 μM (DPPH)], 12 [IC50(s) = 310.8 μM (ABTS), 162.2 μM (DPPH)], 14 [IC50(s) = 281.3 μM (ABTS), 205.7 μM (DPPH)], 15 [IC50(s) = 284.1 μM (ABTS), 177.3 μM (DPPH)], and 16 [IC50(s) = 344.7 μM (ABTS), 270.2 μM (DPPH)] as compared with Ascorbic acid [IC50(s) = 340.9 μM (ABTS), 164.3 μM (DPPH)]. The anti‐Alzheimer's activity was performed in vitro against cholinesterase enzymes (AChE, BChE). Compound 11 was able to show significant inhibitions [IC50(s) = 121.2 μM (AChE), 38.3 μM (BChE)] as against that of galantamine [IC50(s) = 139.4 μM (AChE), 40.3 μM (BChE)]. Compound 14 was found as a very good inhibitor of butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 35.4 μM) as compared with standard galantamine. Molecular docking was further performed to investigate the mechanism of anticholinesterase activity.
Superiority of cilostazol among antiplatelet FDA‐approved drugs against COVID 19 Mpro and spike protein: Drug repurposing approach
Authors: Abosheasha Mohammed A. , El‐Gowily Afnan H.
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) was first identified in Wuhan, China near the end of 2019. To date, COVID‐19 had spread to almost 235 countries and territories due to its highly infectious nature. Moreover, there is no vaccine or Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved drug. More time is needed to establish one of them. Consequently, the drug repurposing approach seems to be the most attractive and quick solution to accommodate this crisis. In this regard, we performed molecular docking‐based virtual screening of antiplatelet FDA‐approved drugs on the key two viral target proteins: main protease (Mpro) and spike glycoprotein (S) as potential inhibitor candidates for COVID‐19. In the present study, 15 antiplatelet FDA‐approved drugs were investigated against the concerned targets using the Molecular Docking Server. Our study revealed that only cilostazol has the most favorable binding interaction on Mpro (PDB ID: 6LU7) and cilostazol, iloprost, epoprostenol, prasugrel, and icosapent ethyl have a higher binding affinity on spike glycoprotein (S) (PDB ID: 6VYB) compared with recent anti‐CoVID‐19. Therefore, cilostazol is a promising FDA drug against COVID‐19 by inhibiting both Mpro and S protein. The insights gained in this study may be useful for quick approach against COVID‐19 in the future.
Are there sex differences in the development of prefrontal function during early childhood?
Authors: Shinohara Ikuko , Moriguchi Yusuke
Published: September 2020

Research has demonstrated the possibility of minor sex differences in executive function (EF) development of young children; however, this may be limited to the measurements used in previous studies (questionnaires and cognitive tasks), which tend to be less sensitive to the detection of sex differences. The present study uses brain measures to examine the effect of sex on EF development. In this study, preschool children were given an EF task, and patterns of activation in the lateral prefrontal regions were measured by a functional near‐infrared spectroscopy. In Study 1, there were no behavioral differences between girls and boys, though girls showed stronger prefrontal activation than boys. Study 2 was conducted as an attempt to replicate the results, and some of the results were inconsistent with the results in Study 1. Results suggest that sex differences in EF tasks are small, although such differences may exist irrespective of methodology.
Shrub encroachment creates a dynamic landscape of fear for desert lagomorphs via multiple pathways
Authors: Wagnon Casey J. , Schooley Robert L. , Cosentino Bradley J.
Published: September 2020

Shrub encroachment is transforming arid and semiarid grasslands worldwide. Such transitions should influence predator–prey interactions because vegetation cover often affects risk perception by prey and contributes to their landscape of fear. We examined how the landscape of fear of two desert lagomorphs (black‐tailed jackrabbit,Lepus californicus; desert cottontail,Sylvilagus audubonii) changes across grassland‐to‐shrubland gradients at Jornada Basin Long Term Ecological Research site in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico. We test whether shrub encroachment shapes risk differently for these two lagomorphs because of differences in body size and predator escape tactics. We also examine whether an ecosystem engineer of grasslands (banner‐tailed kangaroo rat,Dipodomys spectabilis) mediates risk perception through the creation of escape refuge and whether trade‐offs exist between shrub encroachment and the local reduction of banner‐tailed kangaroo rats caused by shrub expansion. We measured perceived predation risk with flight initiation distances (FIDs) and then used structural equation modeling to tease apart the hypothesized direct and indirect pathways for how shrub encroachment could affect perceived risk. A total negative effect of shrub cover on FID was supported for jackrabbits and cottontails, suggesting both species perceive shrubbier habitat as safer. Increases in fine‐scale concealment also reduced risk for cottontails, but not jackrabbits, likely because cottontails rely on crypsis to avoid predator detection whereas jackrabbits rely on speed and agility to outrun predators. Perceived risk was reduced when individuals were near kangaroo rat mounds only for cottontails because the smaller species can use banner‐tailed kangaroo rat mounds as refuge. Shrub encroachment greatly reduced the availability of mounds. Thus, a trade‐off exists for cottontails in which shrub encroachment directly reduced perceived risk, but indirectly increased perceived risk through the local extirpation of an ecosystem engineer. Our work illustrates how the expansion of shrub encroachment can create a dynamic landscape of fear for populations of prey species involving direct and indirect pathways contingent on prey body size, escape tactics, and activities of an ecosystem engineer.
Nationwide trends in incidence, healthcare utilization, and mortality in hospitalized heart failure patients in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Tzung‐Dau , Huang Shih‐Tsung , Wang Chen‐Yu , Lin Fang‐Ju , Chen Ho‐Min , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan
Published: September 2020

Aims

The objective of this study was to estimate the nationwide annual incidence, healthcare utilization, and mortality among hospitalized heart failure (HF) patients in Taiwan.

Methods and results

People aged 20 years or older and having been newly admitted for HF between 2010 and 2015 were identified from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. For 124 816 patients with incident HF hospitalizations between 2010 and 2012, we further analysed their treatment patterns, healthcare utilizations, and mortality during index hospitalization and within 3 years following discharge from the index hospitalization. The age‐stratified incidences were declined by 10–20% in people aged 55 years or older, but increased by ~4% among people younger than 44 years old between 2010 and 2015. For all incident hospitalized HF patients, the percentages of patients visiting the emergency room, were rehospitalized, and treated with guideline‐directed medical therapy were highest in the first year. Approximately two‐thirds of subsequent hospitalizations were due to non‐HF and non‐cardiovascular causes. The all‐cause mortality rate during index hospitalization was 8.5%, whereas the mortality rates at 30 days, 90 days, 180 days, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years following discharge were 3.5%, 8.9%, 14.4%, 22.5%, 33.9%, and 42.8%, respectively, for those surviving index HF hospitalization. Non‐cardiovascular disease‐related deaths accounted for nearly 60% of all deaths.

Conclusions

Our study reveals that, in contemporary Taiwan, the >10% annual mortality following the first year of hospitalization, 30% deaths occurring outside the hospital, and 60% non‐cardiovascular‐related deaths, along with the decreasing use of guideline‐directed medical therapy, highlight sectors requiring more attention.
Synthesis, Characterization and Electrochemical Reductive Properties of Complexes [Fe2(CO)4(κ2‐PPh2NR2)(µ‐dithiolato)] Related to the H‐Cluster of [FeFe]‐H2ases
Authors: Hobballah Ahmad , Lounissi Sondes , Motei Rachid , Elleouet Catherine , Pétillon François Y. , Schollhammer Philippe
Published: September 2020

A series of dithiolato carbonyl diiron complexes with cyclic azadiphosphine, related to the active site of [FeFe]‐hydrogenases, has been prepared. Several combinations of diphosphines and dithiolato bridges have been examined in order to obtain information on the influence of electronic and steric effects of the group linked to the nitrogen atom of the phosphine (phenyl or benzyl) and the bridge‐head of the dithiolate (CH2, CEt2, CBn2). Products were spectroscopically and structurally characterized. Protonation experiments show that depending on the nature of the amine in the diphosphine, protonation processes are different. With NBn group, the process is arrested at N‐protonated species, while with NPh, the proton is transferred to the diiron site giving bridging‐hydrido species. The effect of the bridge‐head group of the dithiolate is very slight on the electronic properties of the compounds. Depending on the steric crowding of the bridge, different isomers related to the dibasal or basal‐apical position of the diphosphine, are observed in solution or in solid state. Electrochemical study was performed to examine the activity of these compounds in the presence of acid.
Graphene Oxide Modified Carbon Paste Electrode for Handy and Ultra‐sensitive Determination of Epinephrine in the Presence of Uric and Ascorbic Acids
Authors: Joseph Teena , Thomas Tony , Thomas Nygil
Published: September 2020

A precise and sensitive electrochemical sensor based on a simple graphene oxide modified carbon paste electrode (GO/CPE) was successfully fabricated for simultaneous detection of epinephrine (EPN), uric acid (UA), and ascorbic acid (AA). The GO/CPE displays better electrochemical activity towards EPN by largely improving the current sensitivity and selectivity. Large peak separation allowed this sensor to analyze EPN individually and simultaneously in the mixture of AA and UA. The developed sensor showed good reproducibility, and stability. The sensor exhibited acceptable performance in wide concentration range (0.1–2000 μM) with a limit of detection down to 50 nM.
Molecular Imprinted Polymer Modified Electrochemical Sensors for Small Drug Analysis: Progress to Practical Application
Authors: Feroz Momina , Vadgama Pankaj
Published: September 2020

Molecular imprinted polymers (MIPs) are tailor made from synthetic polymers and designed to mimic the recognition properties of natural biological affinity molecules. MIPs incorporate binding motifs complementary to target organic molecule shape and functional groups in order to mimic the complex binding surfaces of natural macromolecules. This confers selectivity and specificity, with the added advantage of artificial MIP polymer stability and ready adaptability to the fabrication and creation of miniaturised affinity interfaces for electrochemical sensing and extra‐laboratory testing. Their generic capability as robust sorbent phases for drug extraction and concentration allows for targeted, interfacial interrogation by the active electrochemical surface. A wide range of electrochemical sensing strategies has also been advanced in recent years, which is covered by this review. The review covers MIP functional principles, examples of MIP preparative routes and final assay outcomes for the measurement of small molecule drugs of biomedical, and also of potential environmental relevance. Some small molecules as examples of toxin and contaminant measurement are also given. A historic background to MIP development is provided, but the review mainly focuses on electrochemical sensor advances in the last five years.
Electrode Selection for Electrostimulation and TEER Using ECSARA
Authors: Abasi Sara , Bhat Ankita , Guiseppi‐Elie Anthony
Published: September 2020

The TransEpithelial/Endothelial Electrical Resistance (TEER) of cells grown in the 24‐well electroculture ware of an Electrical Cell Stimulation and Recoding Apparatus (ECSARA) shows well‐to‐well variation as potentially a function of the electrode material employed in stimulation‐interrogation. Six electrode materials were studied; glassy carbon (GCE), graphitic carbon (GrC), titanium (Ti), platinized Type 304 stainless steel (PtSS), platinum (Pt100) and gold (Au). Each unmodified electrode was studied by multiple scan rate cyclic voltammetry (MSRCV) and by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) with equivalent circuit analysis (EQCRTA) in PBS and in Fe(II)/Fe(III). MSRCV and Randles‐Sevcik analysis of the bare electrodes produced an effective area correction factor γ* that rank‐ordered the electrodes GrC=1.58>Pt=1.40>GCE=0.94>Au=0.66>PtSS=0.11>Ti=0.01. Tandem EIS‐EQCRTA produced RCT (Ω)/γ* of 1.20×102 and 5.60×108 for GrC and Ti, respectively and established these two electrode materials as the performance extremes. GrC and Ti were used as electrode materials in the 24‐well electroculture ware of ECSARA. The coefficient of variation of the charging capacity extracted from CVs of GrC (22 wells, 10.05 mC) and Ti (22 wells, 1.75 mC) was 51.4 % and 54.6 % respectively, reflective of the difference in surface area. EIS‐EQCRTA of GrC and Ti (21 wells) showed both electrodes to faithfully measure the solution resistance, RS, with CV of 54 % and 28 %, respectively, despite the lower charge transfer resistance, RCT, of GrC (RCT=1.08×103 Ω, CV=125 %) compared to Ti (RCT=1.20×105 Ω, CV=30 %). Overall, Ti electrodes were shown to be more appropriate for application in cell stimulation and TEER recording.
COVID‐19 policies in Germany and their social, political, and psychological consequences
Authors: Naumann Elias , Möhring Katja , Reifenscheid Maximiliane , Wenz Alexander , Rettig Tobias , Lehrer Roni , Krieger Ulrich , Juhl Sebastian , Friedel Sabine , Fikel Marina , Cornesse Carina , Blom Annelies G.
Published: September 2020

Many policy analyses on COVID‐19 have been focusing on what kind of policies are implemented to contain the spread of COVID‐19. What seems equally important to explore are the social and political consequences of the confinement policies. Does the public support strict confinement policies? What are the social, political, and psychological consequences of the confinement policies? The question of how legitimate a policy is among the public is at the core of democratic theory. Its relevance also stems from the expected consequences of public support on behavior: The more someone supports a policy, the more someone is likely to follow the policy even if the policy is not strictly enforced. In this paper, we will focus on Germany, briefly summarize the main policies during the first 6 weeks of confinement and then explore political attitudes, risk perceptions, and the social consequences of the lockdown.
Evaluation of the Inherent Toxicity Concept in Environmental Toxicology and Risk Assessment
Authors: McCarty L.S. , Borgert C.J. , Burgoon L.D.
Published: September 2020

Intrinsic/inherent chemical properties are characteristic, irrespective of the number of molecules present. However, toxicity is an extensive/extrinsic biochemical property that depends on the number of molecules. Paracelsus, often considered the father of toxicology, noted that all things are poisonous. Because dose magnitude (i.e., number of molecules) determines the occurrence of poisonous effects, toxicity cannot be an intrinsic/inherent biochemical property. Thus, toxicology's task is to determine case-specific risks resulting in adverse effects produced by the interaction of toxic doses/exposures, toxic mechanisms, and case-specific influencing factors. Experimental testing results are known to vary within and between chemicals, test organisms, and experimental conditions and repetitions; however, hazard-based approaches treat toxicity as a fixed and constant property. A logical alternative is the standard-risk, case-specific risk model. In this approach, testing data are defined as standard risks where the nature, magnitude, and toxicity effect is standardized to the organism, chemical, and test conditions. Interpolation/extrapolation of standard risks to site-specific conditions (i.e., case-specific risks) is challenging, requiring understanding of the influences of the complex interactions within and between differing species, conditions, and toxicity-modifying factors. Therefore, Paracelsus's paradigm is perhaps better abbreviated as “dose–causality–response”, because a key interpretive requirement is establishing toxicity causality by separating mode/mechanism of toxic action from modifying factor influences in overall toxicity responses. Unfortunately, the current knowledge base is inadequate. Moving to a standard-risk–specific-risk paradigm would highlight the importance of improving the toxicity causality knowledge base. Thereby, a rationale would be provided for enhancing the design and interpretation of toxicity testing that is necessary for achieving advances in routine translation of standard-risk to specific-risk estimates—the raison d'être of regulatory risk decision making. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2351–2360. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Key Odorants from Daldinia childiae
Authors: Moore Andrew J. , Wickramasinghe Purni C. K. , Munafo John P.
Published: September 2020

An investigation to identify odorants responsible for a pleasant woody perfume‐like aroma produced in the fermentation broth of the fungus Daldinia childiae (JD Rogers & YM Ju) was conducted. Thirty odorants were identified from 30‐day‐old fermentations employing solvent‐assisted flavour evaporation (SAFE) and aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA). Eleven odorants with flavour dilution (FD) factors ≥16 were quantitated using stable isotope dilution assays (SIDA), and odour activity values (OAV) determined. Odorants with the highest OAVs included guai‐11‐en‐10‐ol (woody, OAV 102689), 1‐octen‐3‐one (mushroom, OAV 9025), sotolon (maple, OAV 458), and (2E)‐non‐2‐enal (fatty, OAV 70). An odour simulation model formulated using odorants with OAV ≥ 1 closely matched the sensory attributes of natural D childiae fermentations. Guai‐11‐en‐10‐ol, a component of patchouli essential oil used widely in perfumery and cosmetics, was identified as the key impact odorant driving the pleasant woody perfume‐like aroma in D childiae fermentations. The findings from this investigation lay the groundwork for future studies on D childiae as a source for the sustainable biotechnological production of guai‐11‐en‐10‐ol with potential applications in the flavour and fragrance industry.
How do essential oil composition and phenolic acid profile of Heracleum persicum fluctuate at different phenological stages?
Authors: Hazrati Saeid , Mollaei Saeed , Rabbi Angourani Hossein , Hosseini Seyyed Jaber , Sedaghat Mojde , Nicola Silvana
Published: September 2020

Heracleum persicum, commonly named Persian hogweed, is a principal native medicinal plant in Iran. Collecting H. persicum at the most appropriate growing stage is the key factor to achieve the high phytochemical quality to meet consumer's needs. In the present experiment, the aerial parts of this plant were harvested at up to six different developmental stages during the growing season to determine the phytochemical profiles. Our results indicated that the highest essential oil content was obtained in the mid‐mature seed stage (3.5%). The most elevated extract content was recorded in the floral budding stage (10.4%). In the vegetative stage, limonene (18.1%), in floral budding stage, caryophyllene (14.1%), anethole (14.6%), and β‐bisabolene (12.7%), in the full flowering stage, myristicin (15.0%), and hexyl butyrate (9.1%), in the early development of seeds stage, hexyl butyrate (32.1%), and octyl acetate (11.7%), in the mid‐mature seeds stage hexyl butyrate (38.8%), octyl acetate (14.5%), in the late‐mature/ripe seeds stage, hexyl butyrate (23.6%), and octyl acetate (10.5%) are recorded as the main components. The highest phenolic acids content was obtained in the floral budding stage (287.40 mg/g dried extract). The analysis of phenolic acids demonstrated cinnamic acid (8.0–225.3 mg/g extract), p‐coumaric acid (1.7–39.2 mg/g extract), p‐hydroxybenzoic acid (0.8–16.8 mg/g extract), and ferulic acid (2.4–15.8 mg/g extract) as the main phenolic acids. Cinnamic acid was found as the major phenolic compound in the vegetative stage following by floral budding, the full flowering stage, the early development of seeds, and late‐mature/ripe seeds stages. P‐coumaric acid was the most abundant phenolic compounds in the mid‐mature seeds stage. In this regard, the harvest time of H. persicum aerial parts can be selected to achieve the highest secondary metabolites of interest. The results of this study can be used as a guideline for grower to obtain the highest possible amount of desirable metabolites, beneficial in both food and pharmaceutical industries as well as their undeniable economical benefits.
Transcervical endoscopic retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) dissection in nasopharyngeal carcinoma with RPLN recurrence
Authors: Liu You‐Ping , Wang Shun‐Lan , Zou Xiong , You Rui , Yang Qi , Zhang Meng‐Xia , Wang Zhi‐Qiang , Lin Mei , Xie Yu‐Long , Chen Si‐Yuan , Ouyang Yan‐Feng , Yu Zi‐Kun , Liu Xue‐Kui , Sun Rui , Hua Yi‐Jun , Huang Pei‐Yu , Li Hao , Chen Ming‐Yuan
Published: September 2020

Background

Surgical access for retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) dissection is difficult. We aimed to examine the efficacy of transcervical endoscopic RPLN dissection (TSE‐RPLND) for recurrent RPLN in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

From April 2013 to February 2019, a total of 31 patients with NPC diagnosed with RPLN recurrence underwent TSE‐RPLND. The clinical characteristics, complications, and survival outcomes were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The mean duration of surgery, quantity of bleeding and postoperative hospitalization stay were 347.9 minutes, 107.7 mL, and 8.7 days, respectively. After a median follow‐up of 31.0 months, the 2‐year locoregional relapse‐free survival, distant metastasis‐free survival, progression‐free survival, and overall survival rates were 63.9%, 95.2%, 59.9%, and 83.3%, respectively. The long‐term incidences of swallowing problems, permanent nutrient tube, tongue atrophy, and shoulder problems were 6 (19.4%), 3 (9.7%), 3 (9.7%), and 3 (9.7%), respectively.

Conclusions

TSE‐RPLND is an effective method to treat RPLN recurrence in NPC, but nerve injury‐related complications should not be ignored.
Gallstones, Body Mass Index, C‐Reactive Protein, and Gallbladder Cancer: Mendelian Randomization Analysis of Chilean and European Genotype Data
Authors: Barahona Ponce Carol , Scherer Dominique , Brinster Regina , Boekstegers Felix , Marcelain Katherine , Gárate‐Calderón Valentina , Müller Bettina , de Toro Gonzalo , Retamales Javier , Barajas Olga , Ahumada Monica , Morales Erik , Rojas Armando , Sanhueza Verónica , Loader Denisse , Rivera María Teresa , Gutiérrez Lorena , Bernal Giuliano , Ortega Alejandro , Montalvo Domingo , Portiño Sergio , Bertrán Maria Enriqueta , Gabler Fernando , Spencer Loreto , Olloquequi Jordi , Fischer Christine , Jenab Mazda , Aleksandrova Krasimira , Katzke Verena , Weiderpass Elisabete , Bonet Catalina , Moradi Tahereh , Fischer Krista , Bossers Willem , Brenner Hermann , Hveem Kristian , Eklund Niina , Völker Uwe , Waldenberger Melanie , Fuentes Guajardo Macarena , Gonzalez‐Jose Rolando , Bedoya Gabriel , Bortolini Maria C. , Canizales‐Quinteros Samuel , Gallo Carla , Ruiz‐Linares Andres , Rothhammer Francisco , Lorenzo Bermejo Justo
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a neglected disease with substantial geographical variability: Chile shows the highest incidence worldwide, while GBC is relatively rare in Europe. Here, we investigate the causal effects of risk factors considered in current GBC prevention programs as well as C‐reactive protein (CRP) level as a marker of chronic inflammation.

Approach and Results

We applied two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) using publicly available data and our own data from a retrospective Chilean and a prospective European study. Causality was assessed by inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR‐Egger regression, and weighted median estimates complemented with sensitivity analyses on potential heterogeneity and pleiotropy, two‐step MR, and mediation analysis. We found evidence for a causal effect of gallstone disease on GBC risk in Chileans (P = 9 × 10−5) and Europeans (P = 9 × 10−5). A genetically elevated body mass index (BMI) increased GBC risk in Chileans (P = 0.03), while higher CRP concentrations increased GBC risk in Europeans (P = 4.1 × 10−6). European results suggest causal effects of BMI on gallstone disease (P = 0.008); public Chilean data were not, however, available to enable assessment of the mediation effects among causal GBC risk factors.

Conclusions

Two risk factors considered in the current Chilean program for GBC prevention are causally linked to GBC risk: gallstones and BMI. For Europeans, BMI showed a causal effect on gallstone risk, which was itself causally linked to GBC risk.