bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodology for quantifying the impact of repurposing existing manufacturing facilities: case study using pulp and paper facilities for sustainable aviation fuel production
Authors: Brandt Kristin , Camenzind Dane , Zhu J. Y. , Latta Greg , Gao Johnway , Wolcott Michael
Published: April 2022

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is vital for the reduction of the environmental impact of the aviation industry while decreasing the dependence of the USA on foreign petroleum fuels. To date, SAF, especially from cellulosic feedstocks, have struggled to overcome two barriers: (1) meeting price parity with their petroleum counterparts and (2) the large capital investment required for industrial‐scale biorefineries. Repurposing of industrial facilities has been suggested as a means of addressing both challenges. In this study we look at the financial impact of manufacturing SAF using three repurposing value levels. To demonstrate the application of this methodology, we examine case studies based on a wood‐based alcohol‐to‐jet process. Each level evaluated assumes a different portion of the existing facility is useable. The impact on capital costs and minimum fuel selling price is estimated for generalized case studies as well as for specific case studies spread across multiple regions of the USA. The best economic outcomes are achieved when large‐scale facilities have both inside and outside battery limit assets that can be repurposed. The geospatially explicit variables that have the largest economic impact are feedstock price, feedstock composition, and industrial natural gas price. However, the scale and value of repurposing both outweigh the geospatial variables within reasonable limits. Of the locations studied, the lowest minimum selling price (MSP) of $1.16/L was calculated at the Washington facility, a nearly 19% reduction from a matching scaled greenfield facility, a result of existing equipment and infrastructure reducing total capital investment by one‐third and plentiful feedstock. © 2022 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Structure characterization and bioactivity of neutral polysaccharides from different sources of Polygonatum Mill
Authors: Wang Feifeng , Jiang Yujie , Jin Shuifeng , Wang Dekai , Wu Kangjing , Yang Qingwen , Han Ruilian , Chen Shaoning , Liang Zongsuo , Jia Qiaojun
Published: April 2022

Polygonati rhizoma (PR), a traditional medical and edible product, is rich in polysaccharides and exhibits physiological activity, including antioxidant, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties. Neutral polysaccharides have been reported to be one of the main active ingredients of Polygonatum, with many of these fractions being responsible for the biological activity. This behavior was shown to be closely connected to the chemical structure, monosaccharide composition, and glycosidic bond type. There are few reports on the chemical constituents of the neutral polysaccharides from different sources of PR. In this study, neutral polysaccharides of PR from four different regions of China (Chun'an (Zhejiang), Xixia (Henan), Danfeng (Shanxi), and Pan'an (Zhejiang)), named CAZJ, XXHN, DFSX, and PAZJ, respectively, were isolated by anion‐exchange and gel‐permeation chromatography. Structures of the four polysaccharides were investigated. The results showed that all of them were mainly glucose and mannose, while the monosaccharide composition and content of polysaccharides from different sources varied. The molecular weights of CAZJ, XXHN, DFSX, and PAZJ were 14.119, 22.352, 18.127, and 15.699 kDa, respectively. Infrared spectra illustrated the existence of α‐glycosidic bond and β‐glycosidic bond in the polysaccharides. CAZJ, XXHN, and DFSX possessed a pyranose ring structure, whereas PAZJ had a furanose ring structure. Congo red test indicated that XXHN, DFSX, and PAZJ had a triple‐helix structure. X‐ray diffraction showed that the polysaccharides consisted of crystalline and amorphous regions. All four polysaccharides exhibited different degrees of antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities with a dose‐dependent manner in the 1.0–10.0 mg/mL concentration range. Correlation analysis revealed that the bioactivities of polysaccharides was significantly related to monosaccharide composition, uronic acid, and protein content. The results suggested that neutral polysaccharides could be used as potential natural antioxidants and hypoglycemic agents for functional and nutraceutical applications.
Extracellular matrix bioink boosts stemness and facilitates transplantation of intestinal organoids as a biosafe Matrigel alternative
Authors: Xu Zi‐Yan , Huang Jin‐Jian , Liu Ye , Chen Can‐Wen , Qu Gui‐Wen , Wang Ge‐Fei , Zhao Yun , Wu Xiu‐Wen , Ren Jian‐An
Published: April 2022

Organoids hold inestimable therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine and are increasingly serving as an in vitro research platform. Still, their expanding applications are critically restricted by the canonical culture matrix and system. Synthesis of a suitable bioink of bioactivity, biosecurity, tunable stiffness, and printability to replace conventional matrices and fabricate customized culture systems remains challenging. Here, we envisaged a novel bioink formulation based on decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) from porcine small intestinal submucosa for organoids bioprinting, which provides intestinal stem cells (ISCs) with niche‐specific ECM content and biomimetic microstructure. Intestinal organoids cultured in the fabricated bioink exhibited robust generation as well as a distinct differentiation pattern and transcriptomic signature. This bioink established a new co‐culture system able to study interaction between epithelial homeostasis and submucosal cells and promote organoids maturation after transplantation into the mesentery of immune‐deficient NODSCID‐gamma (NSG) mice. In summary, the development of such photo‐responsive bioink has the potential to replace tumor‐derived Matrigel and facilitate the application of organoids in translational medicine and disease modeling.
Iron imbalance in cancer: Intersection of deficiency and overload
Authors: Basak Tulika , Kanwar Rupinder Kaur
Published: April 2022

Iron, an essential trace element, plays a complex role in tumour biology. While iron causes cancer clearance through toxic free radical generation, iron‐induced free radical flux also acts as a cancer promoter. These fates majorly guided through cellular response towards pro‐oxidant and antioxidant settings in a tumour microenvironment, designate iron‐induced oxidative stress as a common yet paradoxical factor in pro‐tumorigenesis as well as anti‐tumorigenesis, posing a challenge to laying down iron thresholds favouring tumour clearance. Additionally, complexity of iron's association with carcinogenesis has been extended to iron‐induced ROS's involvement in states of both iron deficiency and overload, conditions identified as comparable, inevitable and significant coexisting contributors as well as outcomes in chronic infections and tumorigenesis. Besides, iron overload may also develop as an unwanted outcome in certain cancer patients, as a result of symptomatic anaemia treatment owed to irrational iron‐restoration therapies without a prior knowledge of body's iron status with both conditions synergistically acting towards tumour aggravation. The co‐play of iron deficiency and overload along with iron's pro‐tumour and antitumour roles with intersecting mechanisms, thus presents an unpredictable regulatory response loop in a state of malignancy. The relevance of iron's thresholds beyond which it proves to be beneficial against tumorigenesis hence becomes questionable. These factors pose a challenge, over establishing if iron chelation or iron flooding acts as a better approach towards antitumour therapies. This review presents a critical picture of multiple contrasting features of iron's behaviour in cancer, leading towards two conditions lying at opposite ends of a spectrum: iron deficiency and overload in chronic disease conditions including cancer, hence, validating the critical significance of diagnosis of patients' iron status prior to opting for subsequent therapies.
A novel prognostic time window based on conditional survival and outcomes analyses of primary liver cancer patients
Authors: Lu Weicheng , Hong Weifeng , Qiu Haibo , Zhou Zhongguo , He Zhonglian , Zeng Weian , Zhong Weiqiang , Xie Jingdun
Published: April 2022

Background

Liver cancer is one of the most deadly and prevalent cancers. A routine follow‐up plan for liver cancer is crucial but limited. In the present study, we aimed to disclose possible risk factors and critical survival time windows for primary liver cancer.

Methods

We enrolled 692 liver cancer patients from Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center (SYSUCC). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses of cirrhosis and recurrence were conducted. A meta‐analysis was utilized to validate an indication of creatinine (CRE) in recurrence. Conditional survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method. The results were further verified by the SYSUCC validation cohort and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) validation cohort.

Results

Our results indicated that A/G, history of hepatitis, history of alcohol consumption and platelet (PLT) might be potential prognostic factors for cirrhosis in liver cancer patients. CRE was significantly correlated with recurrence due to various therapies, especially after transarterial embolization. Moreover, 1.5 years to 2 years may be a critical time window for deterioration in survival rate based on the conditional survival analysis.

Conclusion

A/G, history of hepatitis, alcohol consumption and PLT may be potential prognostic factors for cirrhosis in liver cancer patients. More attention should be focused on the renal function when treating the patients due to the significant role of CRE. 1.5 years to 2 years is a critical time window for deterioration in survival rate for liver cancer patients that contributes to determining the optimal follow‐up plan in the future.
Biosynthetic Gene Cluster of Linaridin Peptides Contains Epimerase Gene
Authors: Xiao Wanlu , Satoh Yasuharu , Ogasawara Yasushi , Dairi Tohru
Published: April 2022

Salinipeptins belong to the type‐A linaridin class of ribosomally synthesized and post‐translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) comprising 22 amino acid residues with multiple D‐amino acids. Although chirality of other type‐A linaridins, such as grisemycin and cypemycin, has not been reported, the biosynthetic gene clusters of type‐A linaridins have identical gene organization. Here, we report heterologous expression of grisemycin biosynthetic gene cluster (grm) and show that grisemycin contains multiple D‐amino acids, similar to salinipeptins. The heterologous expression experiments also confirm the involvement of a novel peptide epimerase in grisemycin biosynthesis. Gene‐deletion experiments indicate that grmL, a single gene with unknown function, is indispensable for grisemycin production. We also show that the presence of D‐amino acids is likely a common feature of linaridin natural products by analyzing two other type‐A linaridin clusters.
Underrecognized pathogen; Staphylococcus warneri‐associated native mitral valve endocarditis in an immunocompetent host: A case report and literature review
Authors: Alawad Mouhammad J. , Ali Gawahir A. , Goravey Wael
Published: April 2022

Staphylococcus warneri‐related endocarditis is rarely reported, raising diagnostic challenges and is often associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. We describe a case of native valve endocarditis caused by S. warneri and complicated by a valve perforation in an immunocompetent patient to raise awareness of this emerging organism.
Women of Color and decent work: An examination of psychology of working theory
Authors: Kim Haram J. , McNeil‐Young Victoria A. , Wang Danni , Duffy Ryan D. , Underill Bailey D.
Published: April 2022

Women of Color (WOC) in the United States experience a unique form of intersecting oppression in the realm of work. Various previous studies have shown that WOC experience work objectively (e.g., wage disparity) and subjectively (e.g., compromised job satisfaction) differently than White women or Men of Color, indicating that WOC is less likely to attain decent work than their counterparts. In the present study, using psychology of working theory as the theoretical framework, we examined the predictors and outcomes of decent work (an aspirational goal for all working individuals) among a sample of working adults who self‐identified as WOC (N = 270). Results indicated that WOC's lifetime experiences of economic constraints and marginalization, directly and indirectly, affected decent work attainment via work volition (a sense of choice in one's career). Moreover, the attainment of decent work was positively related to work fulfillment and well‐being. The implications and future directions are discussed.
Electrodeposition of Cobalt‐Copper Oxides Decorated with Conductive Polymer for Supercapacitor Electrodes with High Stability
Authors: Noormohammadi E. , Poli F. , Durante C. , Lunardon M. , Sanjabi S. , Soavi F.
Published: April 2022

Here, we report about the synthesis of Cobalt‐Copper (CC) mixed oxides prepared by electrodeposition and thermal annealing, and coated with PEDOT:PSS (CCP) for supercapacitor electrodes. The electrodes’ morphology and electrochemical performance were investigated by combining XRD, XPS, SEM, cyclic voltammetry, and galvanostatic charge/discharge tests. The initial capacity of the CC electrode was 26 mAh/g at a scan rate of 5 mV/s with a coulombic efficiency of 92 %. The CC electrode featured a capacity retention of 81 % at a constant current density of 1 A/g after 5000 cycles. CCP electrodes slightly reduced the specific capacity but increased both coulombic efficiency and cyclic stability. CCP1 electrode featured a specific capacity of 21 mAh/g at 5 mV/s scan rate with better coulombic efficiency 95 % along with capacity retention of 92.3 % over 5000 cycles. Increasing the amount of PEDOT:PSS lowered the CC electrodes’ specific capacity, but significantly improved the capacity retention up to 100 %.
Block Copolymer Templated WO3 Surface Nanolines as Catalysts for Enhanced Epinephrine Sensing and the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Selkirk Andrew , Bas Salih Zeki , Cummins Cian , Aslan Emre , Patir Imren Hatay , Zhussupbekova Ainur , Prochukhan Nadezda , Borah Dipu , Paiva Aislan , Ozmen Mustafa , Morris Michael A.
Published: April 2022

We report the development of a multifunctional, nanostructured tungsten oxide catalytic device using block copolymer (BCP) templating, which was utilised for both the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and epinephrine (EP) detection. The device was constructed by depositing a self‐assembled BCP film atop an indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate. A tungsten precursor was then selectively coordinated into the film via liquid phase infiltration, which upon UV‐ozone treatment yielded WO3 surface nanolines (NLs) with excellent surface coverage. The resulting device was firstly investigated as a photoanode for OER. The onset overpotential of the WO3NLs‐ITO electrode was determined to be 240 mV and 390 mV, with and without light illumination, respectively. Moreover, the applicability of the WO3NLs‐ITO device for the electrochemical sensing of EP was explored using cyclic voltammetry and amperometry, exhibiting a linear response in a wide working range of 0.5–250 μM with a sensitivity of 0.0491 μA μM−1 and detection limit of 0.086 μM. The device demonstrated high durability over multiple EP measurements, as well as strong anti‐interference abilities versus well‐known interfering compounds. Additionally, the device was successfully applied to accurately determine EP concentrations in commercial drug samples. The results of this study attest to the significant potential of BCP templating for developing low cost, high‐performance electrocatalytic devices for future nanomanufacturing strategies.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: Optical fibre probes in multiphase systems
Authors: Golshan Shahab , Patience Gregory S. , Zarghami Reza , Chaouki Jamal , Blais Bruno
Published: April 2022

As much as 75% of the raw materials in the chemical industry and 50% of consumer products are in the form of powders or granular solids. Gasification, pyrolysis, coating, granulation, drying, and mixing are examples of processes in which particles contact fluids. Researchers examine the hydrodynamics of these fluid–solid systems with pressure signals, acoustics, tomography, radioactive particle tracking, optical fibre measurements, and spectroscopy. Among these techniques, fibre optic probes are simple, inexpensive, and sensitive (spatial resolution of 100 μm) and have sampling frequencies of  Hz. Optical probes measure local hydrodynamic properties, including particle velocity, solids fraction, and voids, which are difficult to measure in heterogeneous systems like spouted beds, risers, and turbulent fluidized beds. Light from a fibre optic bundle illuminates a specific volume, and fibres from the same or separate bundle return the reflected or transmitted photons to a detector (visible, near‐infrared spectroscopy, or Raman). Sample MATLAB codes included herein together with sample experimental data demonstrate how to process raw signals for gas/solids/and bubble holdup, particle and bubble velocity, bubble size, and solids flux.
Septins promote caspase activity and coordinate mitochondrial apoptosis
Authors: Van Ngo Hoan , Robertin Stevens , Brokatzky Dominik , Bielecka Magdalena K. , Lobato‐Márquez Damián , Torraca Vincenzo , Mostowy Serge
Published: April 2022

Apoptosis is a form of regulated cell death essential for tissue homeostasis and embryonic development. Apoptosis also plays a key role during bacterial infection, yet some intracellular bacterial pathogens (such as Shigella flexneri, whose lipopolysaccharide can block apoptosis) can manipulate cell death programs as an important survival strategy. Septins are a component of the cytoskeleton essential for mitochondrial dynamics and host defense, however, the role of septins in regulated cell death is mostly unknown. Here, we discover that septins promote mitochondrial (i.e., intrinsic) apoptosis in response to treatment with staurosporine (a pan‐kinase inhibitor) or etoposide (a DNA topoisomerase inhibitor). Consistent with a role for septins in mitochondrial dynamics, septins promote the release of mitochondrial protein cytochrome c in apoptotic cells and are required for the proteolytic activation of caspase‐3, caspase‐7, and caspase‐9 (core components of the apoptotic machinery). Apoptosis of HeLa cells induced in response to infection by S. flexneri ΔgalU (a lipopolysaccharide mutant unable to block apoptosis) is also septin‐dependent. In vivo, zebrafish larvae are significantly more susceptible to infection with S. flexneri ΔgalU (as compared to infection with wildtype S. flexneri), yet septin deficient larvae are equally susceptible to infection with S. flexneri ΔgalU and wildtype S. flexneri. These data provide a new molecular framework to understand the complexity of mitochondrial apoptosis and its ability to combat bacterial infection.
Cytomorphologic features of SMARCA4‐deficient non–small cell lung carcinoma and correlation with immunohistochemical and molecular features
Authors: Sun Tong , Gilani Syed M. , Podany Peter , Harigopal Malini , Zhong Minghao , Wang He
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

SMARCA4/BRG1‐deficient tumors and those that have loss of SMARCA/BRG1 have been described as various aggressive carcinomas and sarcomas, including a subset of non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Cytomorphologic features of NSCLCs are yet to be described. The objective of this study was to evaluate the cytomorphologic features, immunohistochemical profile, and molecular profile of SMARCA4/BRG1‐deficient NSCLC (SMARCA4‐dNSCLC).

METHODS

The authors retrospectively searched for cases with SMARCA4/BRG1 functional loss alterations, which were identified in molecular studies and further confirmed by immunocytochemistry, and they reviewed the cytomorphologic features. Tumors with BRG1 loss were also stained with an extensive antibody panel. Molecular profiling and clinical information of the identified cases were scrutinized.

RESULTS

In total, 12 cytopathology cases from different anatomic sites were included. All cases showed variable expression of cytokeratin irrespective of type. One‐half of cases had glandular features, followed by squamoid features, and poorly differentiated features. The most common cytologic features included sheets or papillary architecture, round or oval cell shapes, nuclear enlargement, moderate‐to‐marked pleomorphism, and coarse chromatin. Two cases with poorly differentiated cytomorphology had a predominance of single cells, scant cytoplasm, and macronucleoli. Variable expression of epithelial markers was noted in all cases. TP53 was the most frequently co‐mutated gene in SMARCA4‐dNSLCs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that SMARCA4‐dNSCLCs can have a wide spectrum of cytomorphologic features, ranging from a relatively well differentiated adenocarcinoma to a poorly differentiated/undifferentiated carcinoma, with the majority of cases exhibiting some high‐grade features, such as mitosis, apoptosis, necrosis, and marked pleomorphism. ;
Mobocertinib Dose Rationale in Patients with Metastatic NSCLC with EGFR Exon 20 Insertions: Exposure–Response Analyses of a Pivotal Phase I/II Study
Authors: Gupta Neeraj , Largajolli Anna , Witjes Han , Diderichsen Paul M. , Zhang Steven , Hanley Michael J. , Lin Jianchang , Mehta Minal
Published: April 2022

Mobocertinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor gene (EGFR) exon 20 insertion (ex20ins) mutations previously treated with platinum‐based chemotherapy. These exposure–response analyses assessed potential relationships between exposure and efficacy or safety outcomes in platinum‐pretreated patients with EGFRex20ins‐positive mNSCLC who received mobocertinib 160 mg once daily (q.d.) in a pivotal phase I/II study. A statistically significant relationship between the independent review committee‐assessed objective response rate and molar sum exposure to mobocertinib and its active metabolites (AP32960 and AP32914) was not discernable using a longitudinal model of clinical response driven by normalized dynamic molar sum exposure or a static model of best clinical response based on time‐averaged molar sum exposure. However, the longitudinal model suggested a trend for decreased probability of response with the change in mobocertinib molar sum exposure between the 160‐ and 120‐mg doses (odds ratio: 0.78; 95% confidence interval: 0.55–1.10; P = 0.156). Time‐averaged molar sum exposure was a significant predictor of the rate of grade ≥ 3 treatment‐emergent adverse events (AEs). Taken together, these exposure–efficacy and exposure–safety results support a favorable benefit‐risk profile for the approved mobocertinib 160‐mg q.d. dose and dose modification guidelines for patients experiencing AEs.
Theory of Exciton Dynamics in Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Carreras Abel , Casanova David
Published: April 2022

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) is an upconversion photophysical process based on the population of a bright excited singlet state from an excited triplet via reverse intersystem crossing (rISC), which might be employed to overcome the statistical limitation of electron‐hole recombination in organic light‐emitting diodes. In this work, we describe the intricacies of TADF dynamics by means of a quantum master equation and through perturbative approaches to rate constants of internal conversion and ISC. Simulation of the time evolution from the lowest excited triplet in systems with small energy gaps allows to disentangle the role of different electronic states mediating the population of the singlet manifold and the importance of various rISC mechanisms. Energy gaps between charge transfer (CT) and local excitons (LE), and interstate (hyperfine, spin‐orbit and vibronic) couplings are key factors tuning the feasibility of rISC. Since in molecules LE/CT spin‐orbit coupling is, in general, larger than hyperfine interactions, the rISC rate is largely increased in those situations where either the direct or mediated triplet‐singlet interconversion between states of different character is energetically available. Interestingly, temperature dependence of rISC rate is stronger for the spin‐vibronic coupling mechanism than via hyperfine interaction.
Study of Dislocation Bending During Film Growth by a Multiscale Scheme
Authors: An Qiaoru , Nie Qichun , Liu Sheng , Fang Haisheng
Published: April 2022

Depositing on the patterned substrate in chemical vapor deposition is one of the most effective approaches to produce low‐dislocation‐density films. Existing experiments indicate that dislocation bending is the main cause of decreasing dislocation. However, what drives dislocation segments (DSs) to bend remains unclear, and existing numerical methods do not explain the mechanism fully. In this study, a multiscale scheme based on molecular dynamics (MD) and kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) is proposed to unravel the multiscale mechanism of DSs bending. In this scheme, MD is employed to identify the off‐lattice structure and to calculate the diffusion activation energies. KMC is used to perform the temporal evolution of the deposition process. In a proof‐of‐concept, the growth rate and the film morphology in silane deposition are predicted in the cross‐scale comparable to the experimental measurements. With the proposed multiscale scheme, the calculated activation energies show that the repeated lateral deposition and the obliquely upward deposition of the dislocated atoms contribute to DSs bending. Moreover, the sharp decrease of dislocation density is quantitatively elucidated by the scheme. The study provides fundamental insight into dislocation bending reduction during crystal thin film growth.
Leveraging the Photocatalytic Degradation Efficiency of Solution Combustion Derived ZnO Photocatalyst through Palladium Doping
Authors: Irine T. M. , Rathika A. , Gobalakrishnan S. , Isaac R. S. Rimal , Sanjith S. , Chidhambaram N.
Published: April 2022

In this work, palladium‐doped zinc oxide nanoparticle photocatalysts with various amounts of palladium are prepared through a solution combustion method. Their crystal structure, optical, morphological, and thermal properties are examined by X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), UV–vis Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The XRD results demonstrate that palladium doping does not induce any secondary phases related to metallic palladium or palladium oxides. The inclusion of palladium with ZnO decreases the bandgap value and the lowest bandgap value of 3.19 eV is evaluated for the 3% palladium‐doped ZnO photocatalyst. The Fourier Transform Infra‐Red (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis reveals the characteristic stretching vibrations of ZnO at 460 cm−1 in all the synthesized photocatalysts. Palladium doping induces thermal stability enhancement in the synthesized photocatalysts. The optimal palladium doping enhances the photocatalytic degradation efficiency significantly against methylene blue (MB) dye. A plausible mechanism is also discussed for photocatalytic degradation enhancement due to palladium doping.
Salivary gland neoplasms with basaloid features in the era of the Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytology: Classification and interobserver agreement
Authors: Layfield Lester J. , Esebua Magda , Pantanowitz Liron , Maleki Zahra , Vazmitsel Maryna , Baloch Zubair , Cantley Richard L. , Schmidt Robert
Published: April 2022

Background

The Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) has been shown to have moderate to good reproducibility for categorization of salivary gland fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) specimens. Less is known of its accuracy and interobserver reproducibility for categorization of the diagnostically difficult group of basaloid neoplasms.

Methods

Forty‐five salivary gland specimens with a basaloid morphology (pleomorphic and monomorphic adenomas and adenoid cystic carcinomas) were independently assigned by seven cytopathologists to one of the MSRSGC categories. Interobserver agreement was assessed for average agreement, chance expected agreement and by Cohen's κ and diagnostic accuracy. Correlation of the salivary gland neoplasm of unknown malignant potential (SUMP) category with histologic diagnosis and benign or malignant designation along with interobserver reproducibility were calculated.

Results

Average observed agreement for assignment to the MSRSGC was 46% and Cohen's κ = 0.2%. The SUMP category did not correlate with tumor type or with the benign or malignant nature of the neoplasm. Diagnostic specificity and sensitivity were 92% and 100% for consensus diagnosis, but were 76% and 77% for individual diagnoses.

Conclusion

The interobserver agreement in categorizing basaloid neoplasms by the MSRSGC is poorer than for salivary gland lesions overall. This reflects the difficulty in diagnosing basaloid neoplasms. Nonetheless, diagnostic accuracy appears similar to that of salivary gland neoplasms as a whole.
A critical examination of disparities in eating disorder symptoms by sexual orientation among US adults in the NESARC‐III
Authors: Shepherd Benjamin F. , Brochu Paula M. , Rodriguez‐Seijas Craig
Published: April 2022

Objective

Sexual minoritized persons evidence higher prevalence of eating disorders than heterosexual persons, yet it is unclear which specific symptoms drive these disparities. Empirical evidence also documents the importance of considering subclinical eating disorder presentations, as well as potential differentiation in expression of eating disorder symptoms based on gender. The current study complements that of Kamody et al. (2020), who examined sexual orientation‐based disparities in eating disorder diagnoses using a nationally representative sample of the US adult population.

Method

Using the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions‐III (NESARC‐III), we compared the prevalence of eating disorder symptoms across sexual minority status separately for men and women.

Results

Sexual minoritized men were more likely than heterosexual men to report body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m2 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.76), thus, being screened into questions about restrictive eating. Sexual minoritized women were more likely than heterosexual women to endorse ever engaging in a binge‐eating episode (OR = 2.25) and engaging in weekly binge eating for at least 3 months (OR = 1.58), thus, being screened into follow‐up questions about binge eating. Sexual minoritized men were more likely than heterosexual men to fear gaining weight even when at their lowest weight (OR = 4.35) and experience a loss of control when overeating (OR = 3.13).

Discussion

Sexual orientation‐based disparities in eating disorder symptom endorsement were nuanced when stratifying the entire sample by gender. Findings expand previous research on disparities in clinical/diagnosed eating disorders, highlighting the importance of assessing symptomology beyond diagnosis, as well as the intersectional influence of sexual orientation and gender, in both research and practice.
Post‐fire pickings: Large herbivores alter understory vegetation communities in a coastal eucalypt forest
Authors: Chard Matthew , Foster Claire N. , Lindenmayer David B. , Cary Geoffrey J. , MacGregor Christopher I. , Blanchard Wade
Published: April 2022

Fire and herbivores alter vegetation structure and function. Future fire activity is predicted to increase, and quantifying changes in vegetation communities arising from post‐fire herbivory is needed to better manage natural environments. We investigated the effects of post‐fire herbivory on understory plant communities in a coastal eucalypt forest in southeastern Australia. We quantified herbivore activity, understory plant diversity, and dominant plant morphology following a wildfire in 2017 using two sizes of exclosures. Statistical analysis incorporated the effect of exclusion treatments, time since fire, and the effect of a previous prescribed burn. Exclusion treatments altered herbivore activity, but time since fire did not. Herbivory reduced plant species richness, diversity, and evenness and promoted the dominance of the most abundant plants within the understory. Increasing time since fire reduced community diversity and evenness and influenced morphological changes to the dominant understory plant species, increasing size and dead material while decreasing abundance. We found the legacy effects of a previous prescribed burn had no effect on herbivores or vegetation within our study. Foraging by large herbivores resulted in a depauperate vegetation community. As post‐fire herbivory can alter vegetation communities, we postulate that management burning practices may exacerbate herbivore impacts. Future fire management strategies to minimize herbivore‐mediated alterations to understory vegetation could include aggregating management burns into larger fire sizes or linking fire management with herbivore management. Restricting herbivore access following fire (planned or otherwise) can encourage a more diverse and species‐rich understory plant community. Future research should aim to determine how vegetation change from post‐fire herbivory contributes to future fire risk.
Emigration effects on estimates of age‐ and sex‐specific survival of two sciurids
Authors: Weldy Matthew J. , Lesmeister Damon B. , Epps Clinton W.
Published: April 2022

Age‐ and sex‐specific survival estimates are crucial to understanding important life history characteristics, and variation in these estimates can be a key driver of population dynamics. When estimating survival using Cormack–Jolly–Seber (CJS) models, emigration is typically unknown but confounded with apparent survival. Consequently, especially for populations or age classes with high dispersal rates, apparent survival estimates are often biased low and temporal patterns in survival might be masked when site fidelity varies temporally. We used 9 years of annual mark–recapture data to estimate age‐, sex‐, and time‐specific apparent survival of Humboldt's flying squirrels (Glaucomys oregonensis) and Townsend's chipmunks (Neotamias townsendii). For Humboldt's flying squirrels, these estimates support a small body of research investigating potential variation in survival among age and sex classes, but age‐ and sex‐specific survival has not been evaluated for Townsend's chipmunks. We also quantified the effects of age‐ and sex‐specific emigration on confounded estimates of apparent survival. Our estimates of juvenile flying squirrel survival were high relative to other small mammal species and estimates for both species were variable among years. We found survival differed moderately among age and sex classes for Humboldt's flying squirrels, but little among age and sex classes for Townsend's chipmunks, and that the degree to which emigration confounded apparent survival estimates varied substantially among years. Our results demonstrate that emigration can influence commonly used estimates of apparent survival. Unadjusted estimates confounded the interpretation of differences in survival between age and sex classes and masked potential temporal patterns in survival because the magnitude of adjustment varied among years. We conclude that apparent survival estimators are robust during some time periods; however, when emigration rates vary in time, the effects of emigration should be carefully considered and accounted for.
Fishing cat Prionailurus viverrinus distribution and habitat suitability in Nepal
Authors: Mishra Rama , de Iongh Hans H. , Leirs Hewig , Lamichhane Babu Ram , Subedi Naresh , Kolipaka Shekhar S.
Published: April 2022

The fishing cat Prionailurus viverrinus is a wetland specialist species endemic to South and Southeast Asia. Nepal represents the northern limit of its biogeographic range, but comprehensive information on fishing cat distribution in Nepal is lacking. To assess their distribution, we compiled fishing cat occurrence records (n = 154) from Nepal, available in published literature and unpublished data (2009–2020). Bioclimatic and environmental variables associated with their occurrence were used to predict the fishing cat habitat suitability using MaxEnt modeling. Fishing cat habitat suitability was associated with elevation (152–302 m), precipitation of the warmest quarter, i.e., April–June (668–1014 mm), precipitation of the driest month (4–7 mm), and land cover (forest/grassland and wetland). The model predicted an area of 4.4% (6679 km2) of Nepal as potential habitat for the fishing cat. About two‐thirds of the predicted potentially suitable habitat lies outside protected areas; however, a large part of the highly suitable habitat (67%) falls within protected areas. The predicted habitat suitability map serves as a reference for future investigation into fishing cat distribution as well as formulating and implementing effective conservation programs in Nepal. Fishing cat conservation initiatives should include habitats inside and outside the protected areas to ensure long‐term survival. We recommend conservation of wetland sites, surveys of fishing cats in the identified potential habitats, and studying their genetic connectivity and population status.
Climate alters the movement ecology of a non‐migratory bird
Authors: Neumann Landon K. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D. , Davis Craig A. , Wilder Shawn M.
Published: April 2022

Global climate change is causing increased climate extremes threatening biodiversity and altering ecosystems. Climate is comprised of many variables including air temperature, barometric pressure, solar radiation, wind, relative humidity, and precipitation that interact with each other. As movement connects various aspects of an animal's life, understanding how climate influences movement at a fine‐temporal scale will be critical to the long‐term conservation of species impacted by climate change. The sedentary nature of non‐migratory species could increase some species risk of extirpation caused by climate change. We used Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus; hereafter bobwhite) as a model to better understand the relationship between climate and the movement ecology of a non‐migratory species at a fine‐temporal scale. We collected movement data on bobwhite from across western Oklahoma during 2019–2020 and paired these data with meteorological data. We analyzed movement in three different ways (probability of movement, hourly distance moved, and sinuosity) using two calculated movement metrics: hourly movement (displacement between two consecutive fixes an hour apart) and sinuosity (a form of tortuosity that determines the amount of curvature of a random search path). We used generalized linear‐mixed models to analyze probability of movement and hourly distance moved, and used linear‐mixed models to analyze sinuosity. The interaction between air temperature and solar radiation affected probability of movement and hourly distance moved. Bobwhite movement increased as air temperature increased beyond 10°C during low solar radiation. During medium and high solar radiation, bobwhite moved farther as air temperature increased until 25–30°C when hourly distance moved plateaued. Bobwhite sinuosity increased as solar radiation increased. Our results show that specific climate variables alter the fine‐scale movement of a non‐migratory species. Understanding the link between climate and movement is important to determining how climate change may impact a species’ space use and fitness now and in the future.
Comparing short‐term/long‐term outcomes of heart transplants that occur inside and outside of normal working hours
Authors: Nishida Hidefumi , Salerno Christopher , Onsager David , Song Tae , Nguyen Ann , Grinstein Jonathan , Chung Bow , Smith Bryan , Kalantari Sara , Sarswat Nitasha , Kim Gene , Pinney Sean , Jeevanandam Valluvan , Ota Takeyoshi
Published: April 2022

Aims

Heart transplantation involves many factors such as donor selection, recipient management, multidisciplinary assessment, coordination with other organ teams, and transportation. Because of some unpredictable factors, heart transplantation can be conducted at any time of day. The purpose of this study is to investigate if outcomes differ between heart transplants taking place inside or outside of normal working hours.

Methods and results

We reviewed patients who underwent heart transplantation at our institution from January 2010 to July 2020 (n = 329). Based on the documented start time of the recipient surgeries, the cohort was divided into two groups: working hours (Group A: 7:30 to 17:00; n = 92) and after hours (Group B: 17:00 to 7:30; n = 237). We compared these groups using propensity score matching analysis. After propensity score matching, 78 pairs of patients were successfully matched. We reviewed early and late clinical outcomes including survival. Long‐term survival was compared using the Kaplan–Meier method. In the propensity‐score matched patients, there were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics between two groups. In‐hospital mortality was not significantly different between the two groups (Group A: 6.4% vs. Group B: 2.6%, P = 0.44). Ischaemic time and cross‐clamp time did not differ between the groups. In terms of postoperative complications, there were no significant differences between two groups in stroke (6.4% vs. 3.9%, P = 0.72), primary graft dysfunction requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (5.1% vs. 7.7%, P = 0.75), re‐exploration for bleeding (9.0% vs. 12.8%, P = 0.44), and newly required haemodialysis (7.7% vs. 6.4%, P = 0.75). The survival rate in Group A (88.1% at 1 year, 81.3% at 3 years) was not significantly different from Group B (90.5% at 1 year, 82.3% at 3 years, log rank = 0.96).

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in clinical outcomes between heart transplants taking place inside or outside of working hours. A high quality of care can be provided for heart transplant patients even during after hours.
Transient versus persistent improved ejection fraction in non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Manca Paolo , Stolfo Davide , Merlo Marco , Gregorio Caterina , Cannatà Antonio , Ramani Federica , Nuzzi Vincenzo , Lund Lars H. , Savarese Gianluigi , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: April 2022

Aims

The recent definition of heart failure with improved ejection fraction outlined the importance of the longitudinal assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). However, long‐term progression and outcomes of this subgroup are poorly explored. We sought to assess the LVEF trajectories and their correlations with outcome in non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NICM) with improved ejection fraction (impEF).

Methods and results

Consecutive NICM patients with baseline LVEF ≤40% enrolled in the Trieste Heart Muscle Disease Registry with ≥1 LVEF assessment after baseline were included. ImpEF was defined as a baseline LVEF ≤40%, and second evaluation showing both a ≥10% point increase from baseline LVEF and LVEF >40%. Transient impEF was defined by the documentation of recurrent LVEF ≤40% during follow‐up. The primary endpoint was a composite of all‐cause death, heart transplantation and left ventricular assist device (D/HT/LVAD). Among 800 patients, 460 (57%) had impEF (median time to improvement 13 months). Transient impEF was observed in 189 patients (41% of the overall impEF group) and was associated with higher risk of D/HT/LVAD compared with persistent impEF at multivariable analysis (hazard ratio 2.54; 95% confidence interval 1.60–4.04). The association of declining LVEF with the risk of D/HT/LVAD was non‐linear, with a steep increase up to 8% points reduction, then remaining stable.

Conclusions

In NICM, a 57% rate of impEF was observed. However, recurrent decline in LVEF was observed in ≈40% of impEF patients and it was associated with an increased risk of D/HT/LVAD.
Synthesis and Application of Monofluoroalkyl Building Blocks: α‐Halo‐α‐fluoroketones
Authors: Zheng Cheng , Cui Xuhui , Wu Jingjing , Wu Pingjie , Yu Yanyan , Liu Hanwen , Wu Fanhong
Published: April 2022

A convenient and versatile synthesis of α‐halo‐α‐fluoroketones, including α‐iodo‐α‐fluoroketones, α‐bromo‐α‐fluoroketones and α‐chloro‐α‐fluoroketones by using Wu–Colby's protocol involving the release of trifluoroacetate was reported. The ketones’ application as monofluoroalkyl building blocks was explored through coupling and radical reactions. The results indicated that α‐iodo‐α‐fluoroketones are the most popular reagents to construct diverse valuable single‐fluorinated molecules.
Development of a Novel Electrochemical Sensor Based on Functionalized Carbon Black for the Detection of Guanine Released from DNA Hydrolysis
Authors: El Aamri Maliana , Mohammadi Hasna , Amine Aziz
Published: April 2022

In this work, we reported a new strategy based on DNA strands hydrolysis in combination with the employment of functionalized carbon black modified screen‐printed electrode (f‐CB/SPE) for guanine detection. Using glass microbeads as a solid substrate of ssDNA probe fixation, and under appropriate conditions of temperature, time, and hydrochloric acid concentration, DNA hydrolysis has been successfully used to release the guanine, allowing its oxidation at f‐CB/SPE using differential pulse voltammetry. The selectivity was successfully tested with a non‐complementary sequence, and a detection limit of 0.7 nM of the target DNA has been reached.
Detection of Carbendazim in Natural Waters Using a Sensor Based on Magnetite Nanoparticles Modified with Ascorbic Acid/β‐Cyclodextrin
Authors: Alves Freitas Aline , Cruz Vieira Iolanda
Published: April 2022

This paper describes the development of an electrochemical sensor for carbendazim detection using a glassy carbon electrode modified with a new nanomaterial obtained from the synthesis of magnetite nanoparticles stabilized with ascorbic acid and β‐cyclodextrin. The nanoparticles were characterized and the sensor was evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and square wave voltammetry. The calibration curves were linear for carbendazim concentration ranges of 3.33–13.29 μmol L−1 and 16.61–29.82 μmol L−1 with detection limits of 0.43 μmol L−1 and 2.34 μmol L−1, respectively. The proposed sensor represents a fast, efficient and low‐cost analytical tool for pesticide monitoring in natural waters.
Conversion of recombinant human ferritin light chain inclusion bodies into uniform nanoparticles in Escherichia coli for facile production
Authors: Song Xiaotong , Zheng Yongxiang , Liu Yongdong , Meng Huan , Yu Rong , Zhang Chun
Published: April 2022

Prokaryotic expression systems are widely used to produce many types of biologics because of their extreme conveniences and unmatchable cost. However, production of recombinant human ferritin light chain (rhFTL) protein is largely restrained because its expression in Escherichia coli tends to form inclusion bodies (IBs). In this study, a prokaryotic expression vector (FTL‐pBV220) harboring the rhFTL gene was constructed using a pBV220 plasmid. The tag‐free rhFTL was highly expressed and almost entirely converted to soluble form, and thus the rhFTL was successfully self‐assembled into uniform nanoparticles in E. coli. To establish a simplified downstream process, a precipitation procedure based on the optimized incubation temperature, pH condition, and ionic strength was developed to remove impurities from the crude lysate supernatant. The rhFTL retained in the clarified supernatant was subsequently purified in a single step using Capto Butyl column resulting in a considerable recovery and high purity. The purified rhFTL was characterized and verified by mass spectrometry and spectral and morphological analyses. The results revealed that rhFTL exhibited highly ordered and fairly compact structures and the spherical structures were preserved.