bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secretion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Lipoxygenase by Pichia pastoris upon Glycerol Feed
Authors: Hashem Chiam , Stolterfoht Holly , Rinnofner Claudia , Steinberger Stefan , Winkler Margit , Pichler Harald
Published: August 2020

Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipoxygenase (PaLOX) catalyzes the peroxidation of unsaturated fatty acids. Not only linoleic acid, but also linolenic acid and oleic acid are oxidized. The natural host secretes PaLOX into the periplasmic space. Herein, the aim is to secrete PaLOX to the culture supernatant of Pichia pastoris. Since protein background in the culture supernatant is typically rather low, this strategy allows for almost pure production of PaLOX applicable for the valorization of renewable fatty acids, for example for the production of green leaf volatiles. Using the CAT1 promoter system and the well‐established α‐factor signal sequence for secretion, methanol‐ and glycerol‐induced secretion are compared and the latter shows four times more LOX activity in the culture supernatant under methanol‐free conditions. In addition, secreted PaLOX is purified and the specific activity with enzyme in culture supernatant is compared. Notably, the predominant specific activity is achieved for enzyme in culture supernatant ‐ 11.6 U mg−1 ‐ reaching five times higher specific activity than purified PaLOX.
Cognitive framing modulates emotional processing through dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex networks: A functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Kirk Ulrich , Lilleholt Lau , Freedberg David
Published: August 2020

Introduction

In this study, we show new evidence for the role of ventrolateral prefrontal cortex‐dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC‐DLPFC) networks in the cognitive framing of emotional processing.

Method

We displayed neutral and aversive images described as having been sourced from artistic material to one cohort of subjects (i.e., the art‐frame group; n = 19), while identical images, this time identified as having been sourced from documentary material (i.e., the doc‐frame group; n = 20) were shown to a separate cohort.

Results

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we employed a linear parametric model showing that relative to the doc‐frame group the art‐frame group exhibited a modulation of amygdala activity in response to aversive images. The attenuated amygdala activity in the art‐frame group supported our hypothesis that reduced amygdala activity was driven by top‐down DLPFC inhibition of limbic responses. A psychophysiological interaction (PPI) analysis demonstrated that VLPFC activity correlated with amygdala activity in the art‐frame group, but not in the doc‐frame group for the contrast [Aversive > Neutral].

Conclusion

The role of the VLPFC in cognitive control suggests the hypothesis that it alongside DLPFC insulates against embodied emotional responses by inhibiting automatic affective responses.
How and when environmental orientation drives corporate sustainable development in a cross‐national buyer–supplier dyad
Authors: Chan Ricky Y.K. , Ma Katherine H.Y.
Published: August 2020

This study aims at relating the role of environmental orientation to corporate sustainable development within a cross‐national buyer–supplier dyad. To this end, it specifically proposes and empirically tests a model delineating how the international buyer's environmental orientation would influence its green supplier development (GSD) activities, then its outsourcing supplier's green product strategies (GPS), and finally total relationship value (TRV) of the entire buyer–supplier dyad. It also examines how supplier overall information technology advancement (SOITA) would further moderate the aforementioned influences. Survey results derived from 202 buyer–supplier dyads have provided empirical support for all the hypothesized relationships of the proposed model. To summarize, the findings show that international buyers' internal and external environmental orientations both serve as a major driver for their GSD, which, in turn, significantly advances outsourcing suppliers' practice of GPS and consequently enhances TRV. Moreover, this study has demonstrated that SOITA exerts a significant and positive moderating effect on the GSD–GPS link. Overall, this study provides important insights into understanding the complex and contingent processes underlying the influence of the international buyer's environmental orientation on the joint performance of the dyad.
Effect of using a nitrogen atmosphere on enzyme hydrolysis at high corn stover loadings in an agitated reactor
Authors: dos Santos Antonio Carlos Freitas , Ximenes Eduardo , N. Thompson David , Ray Allison E. , Szeto Ryan , Erk Kendra , Dien Bruce S. , Ladisch Michael R.
Published: August 2020

A comprehensive review of the literature shows that enzyme hydrolysis efficiency decreases with increased solids loadings at constant enzyme:cellulose ratios for pretreated lignocellulosic substrates. In seeking a mechanistic explanation for this phenomenon, we found that a nitrogen atmosphere enhances enzyme hydrolysis and minimizes the decrease in glucose yields as solids loadings are increased in an agitated bioreactor. For liquid hot water pretreated corn stover, at solids loadings of both 100 and 200 g/L and hydrolyzed for 72 hr in a 1 L bioreactor at pH 5.0 with 3.6 mg protein per g biomass, glucose yields were 55% in a nitrogen atmosphere versus 45% in air with agitation and about 34% without agitation. While mixing promotes biomass/enzyme contact and disperses sugars released during hydrolysis that would otherwise cause product inhibition, nitrogen gas displaces air, avoiding deactivation of cellulases by oxygen. The nitrogen effect points to a facile approach of enhancing hydrolysis at high solids loadings.
The dose‐effect model is good enough
Authors: Schuler Keke , Kilmer Elizabeth D. , Callahan Jennifer , Dziurzynski Kristan , Swift Joshua
Published: August 2020

Although there is wide agreement on the general efficacy of psychotherapy, two prominent models on the trajectories of change in psychotherapy over time, the dose‐effect (DE) model and the good‐enough level (GEL) model, indicate competing trajectories of change. According to the DE model, the course of treatment follows the shape of a negatively accelerating curve, even though each session of psychotherapy is conceptualised as providing an equivalent dose of treatment. In contrast, the GEL model suggests that there is a linear relationship between psychotherapy response and treatment length that is idiographic for each client, depending on the number of sessions attended. The aim of the current study was to compare these two models in a sample of 399 adult psychotherapy clients. Session‐by‐session outcome was tracked using the Outcome Questionnaire‐45.2 in tandem, and multilevel modelling was used for the analyses. Results indicate that the DE model fits the data better than the GEL model, although the difference in model fit was small. Support for the DE model over the GEL model was further evident in a subsample of prototypical clients—that is, those who did not experience problems with the therapeutic alliance, social support or stressful life events. Findings from the present study add to the existing literature comparing the DE and GEL models and have implications on outcome monitoring in psychotherapy services.
Effects of barley β‐glucan with various molecular weights partially hydrolyzed by endogenous β‐glucanase on glucose tolerance and lipid metabolism in mice
Authors: Mio Kento , Yamanaka Chiemi , Ichinose Yasunori , Kohyama Noriko , Yanagisawa Takashi , Aoe Seiichiro
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives

In this study, we investigated whether the intake of a high‐fat diet containing barley β‐glucan partially hydrolyzed by endogenous β‐glucanase (PHEB) for 2 or 8 hr affects glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and intestinal microbiota compared with untreated barley (BF) and a control diet in mice.

Findings

A significant increase in cecum weight was observed in all barley groups compared with the control group. Liver lipid accumulation was significantly decreased in all barley groups. In mice given barley flour hydrolyzed for 8 hr (PHEB‐8h), blood glucose levels tended to decrease at 30 min when compared with the control group (p = .06). Total short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) contents in the cecum were significantly increased in the BF and PHEB groups compared with the control group.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the improving effects of barley β‐glucan on glucose and lipid metabolism were maintained even after partial hydrolysis, whereas the effects of barley β‐glucan on intestinal microbiota and SCFA production were moderately changed by partial hydrolyzation.

Significance and novelty

The findings of this study showed that, even after the cooking process, partially hydrolyzed barley β‐glucan is expected to improve glucose and lipid metabolism, similar to intact barley β‐glucan.
Electrochemical Properties and Kinetics of Asymmetric Sodium Benzene‐1,2,4‐tricarboxylate as an Anode Material for Sodium‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Gu Tiantian , Gao Shu , Wang Juan , Cao Shengling , Wang Kangli , Zhou Min , Jiang Kai
Published: August 2020

Organic carboxylates are well‐accepted as low‐cost anodes for sodium‐ion batteries, owing to their abundant natural resources, structural versatility and suitable potentials. In this work, sodium benzene‐1,2,4‐tricarboxylate (Na‐1,2,4‐BTC), featured as an asymmetric carboxylic‐based coordination salt, is studied as a Na storage anode. The sodium ions exhibit diffusion‐controlled behavior involving the enolization of the C=O groups in Na‐1,2,4‐BTC. Meanwhile, benefiting from its robust organic‐metal coordination framework and fast charge transfer properties, the as‐prepared Na‐1,2,4‐BTC delivers a high initial desodiation capacity of 258 mA h g−1, outstanding rate capability at 2 A g−1 and remarkable cyclability over 500 cycles, demonstrating a great potential as Na‐organic battery anode with high performance and low cost.
The function of SEC22B and its role in human diseases
Authors: Sun Wei , Tian Bi‐Xia , Wang Shu‐Hong , Liu Pei‐Jun , Wang Yao‐Chun
Published: August 2020

Soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins are a large protein complex that is involved in the membrane fusion in vesicle trafficking, cell growth, cytokinesis, membrane repair, and synaptic transmission. As one of the SNARE proteins, SEC22B functions in membrane fusion of vesicle trafficking between the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus, antigen cross‐presentation, secretory autophagy, and other biological processes. However, apart from not being SNARE proteins, there is little knowledge known about its two homologs (SEC22A and SEC22C). SEC22B alterations have been reported in many human diseases, especially, many mutations of SEC22B in human cancers have been detected. In this review, we will introduce the specific functions of SEC22B, and summarize the researches about SEC22B in human cancers and other diseases. These findings have laid the foundation for further studies to clarify the exact mechanism of SEC22B in the pathological process and to seek new therapeutic targets and better treatment strategies.
Discovery of Mitochondrial Transcription Inhibitors Active in Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Wenmin , Hu Shuai , Mao Shuai , Xu Yibin , Guo Hui , Li Haoxi , Paulsen Michelle T. , Chen Xinde , Ljungman Mats , Neamati Nouri
Published: August 2020

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of cancer cells and targeting cancer mitochondria has emerged as a promising anti‐cancer therapy. Previously, we repurposed chlorambucil by conjugating it to a mitochondrial targeting triphenylphosphonium (TPP) group to design Mito‐Chlor, a novel agent that acts on mitochondria DNA (mtDNA). Herein, we show that Mito‐Chlor, but not chlorambucil, inhibits the nascent transcription of mtDNA. Clustering analysis of transcriptomic profile of our Bru‐seq database led to the identification of another mitochondrial transcription inhibitor SQD1, which inhibits the proliferation of MIA PaCa‐2 cells with an IC50 of 1.3 μM. Interestingly, Mito‐Chlor reduces expression of mitochondrial proteins, interferes with mitochondria membrane potential, and impairs oxidative phosphorylation while SQD1 does not. Both compounds increased cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and stimulated similar signaling pathways in response to oxidative stress. As mitochondrial transcription inhibitors and redox modulators, SQD1 and Mito‐Chlor are promising for the treatment of pancreatic cancer by blocking mitochondrial function.
Applications of Carbon Dots in Next‐generation Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Tian‐Bing , Huang Zun‐Hui , Niu Xiao‐Qing , Liu Jun , Wei Ji‐Shi , Chen Xiao‐Bo , Xiong Huan‐Ming
Published: August 2020

Lithium‐ion battery (LIB) is a dominating power source in the market owing to its high energy density, good cycling stability and environmental benignity. However, technical challenges remain after years’ optimization and commercialization, which are detrimental to the expected performance and lifespan of LIBs. For instance, many cathode materials of LIBs suffer from rapid capacity fading and poor high‐rate performance, which are ascribed to self‐aggregation, dissolution and fast increased charge transfer resistances during cycles. In terms of the anode materials, low coulombic efficiency, electrolyte depletion and safety issues are common. In addition, the liquid electrolyte systems trigger safety concerns because flammable and volatile organic solvents are necessary. Recently, carbon dots (CDs) emerge as a sound material to address those challenges of LIBs, and also present promising applications in bioimaging, fluorescence sensing, photo/electro‐catalysis, and electroluminescence. This review will overlook the state‐of‐the‐art advances in the employment of CDs based composites to build cathode/anode materials and electrolytes in LIBs, through tailoring the internal structures and the surface states of electrode materials, and being additives in electrolyte, to improve the performances of the next‐generation LIBs. The major challenges and opportunities in front of CDs in LIBs will be outlined and discussed in detail.
Safety, Tolerability, and Dose Proportionality of a Novel Transdermal Fentanyl Matrix Patch and Bioequivalence With a Matrix Fentanyl Patch: Two Phase 1 Single‐Center Open‐Label, Randomized Crossover Studies in Healthy Japanese Volunteers
Authors: Lorch Ulrike , Pierscionek Tomasz , Freier Anne , Spencer Christopher S. , Täubel Jörg
Published: August 2020

Two open‐label, single‐dose, randomized crossover studies were conducted in healthy Japanesemen to (1) assess dose proportionality of 5 doses (1.38, 2.75, 5.5, 8.25, and 11.0 mg) of Lafenta, a novel matrix‐type transdermal fentanyl patch with a rate‐controlling membrane; and (2) compare patch bioequivalence (11.0 mg) with a commercially available reference patch (Durotep MT Patch [16.8 mg]). Pharmacokinetics, adhesion performance, residual fentanyl, and safety parameters were assessed. Increases in mean AUC0‐t and Cmax after application of the test patch were dose proportional. The test patch (11.0 mg) was bioequivalent to the 16.8‐mg reference patch in terms of mean AUC0‐inf, AUC0‐t, and Cmax. Residual fentanyl levels 72 hours postapplication were lower in the test than in the reference patch. Differences in adhesion performance between the test and the reference patch did not affect delivery efficacy and reliability of the novel matrix patch. Safety findings were in line with previous experiences with fentanyl. Both studies showed low variation in fentanyl exposure and delivery via the test patch. The test patch provided equivalent fentanyl exposure at a lower dose than the reference patch formulation with lower variability and the potential to lower medicinal waste.
Corporate Governance Configurations and Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure: Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Audit Committee and Board characteristics
Authors: Dwekat Aladdin , Seguí‐Mas Elies , Tormo‐Carbó Guillermina , Carmona Pedro
Published: August 2020

Drawing on the complexity theory and responding to the recent calls to use such creative methods that mix between a quantitative and qualitative approach. Therefore, this study fills the literature gap, adding novelties, showing evidence from the unexplored (or underexplored) European context and, consequently, shedding light to inconclusive results in previous research concerning the effect of audit committee (AC) and board characteristics on corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure by applying a novel research methodology: the fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis. The data were collected from Eikon database for a sample of the top 69 non‐financial European companies (based on market capitalisation) for the period 2016–2018. The study results support the equifinality and complexity tenets of complexity theory. It also suggests that CSR disclosure relies on a complex configuration of some AC attributes, for example, independence, financial expert member, chair independence, size and activity, and other board characteristics (independence, gender, size, activity, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) duality). These characteristics play a leading part as a recipe ingredient and, in an appropriate combination, promote achieving high CSR disclosure levels. Our empirical results offer multidimensional and valuable insights for professionals, regulators, and policymakers in establishing and revising the guidelines regarding the AC and board of directors' composition.
The continuing role of breast fine‐needle aspiration biopsy after the introduction of the IAC Yokohama System For Reporting Breast Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Cytopathology
Authors: De Rosa Filippo , Migliatico Ilaria , Vigliar Elena , Salatiello Maria , Pisapia Pasquale , Iaccarino Antonino , Russo Daniela , Insabato Luigi , Accurso Antonello , Arpino Grazia , Palombini Lucio , Troncone Giancarlo , Bellevicine Claudio
Published: August 2020

Background

Ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) (US‐guided FNAB) is a rapid and cost‐effective procedure for the diagnosis of breast lesions. Our Institution has a long tradition in breast FNAB performed by cytopathologists; recently we adopted both US guidance and a five‐tiered classification system similar to that proposed by the International Academy of Cytology (IAC). The aim of this study was to demonstrate the continuing role of US‐guided FNAB in the diagnosis of breast lesions, despite the growing adoption of core‐needle biopsy (CNB).

Methods

The laboratory information database system was searched to obtain the breast FNAB diagnostic reports recorded from 2010 to 2017 and classified using a five‐tiered Classification System; each entry was matched with the available histology.

Results

A total of 4624 breast FNAB samples were retrieved. Of these, 1745/4624 cases (37.7%) had histological follow‐ups. The risk of malignancy (ROM) was 4.9% for benign, 20.7% for atypical, 78.7% for suspicious of malignancy, and 98.8% for malignant. When the atypical category was evaluated as a negative index, the positive predictive value was 93.73%, and the negative predictive value was 90.78%, reaching an overall diagnostic accuracy of 92.82%.

Conclusions

The IAC Yokohama System for Reporting Breast FNAB Cytopathology clearly identifies different diagnostic categories with increasing ROM. Most of the FNAB samples were classified as benign or malignant (65.3%), warranting prompt management for these patients. Moreover, the inclusion of the atypical category as a low‐risk indeterminate category avoided overtreatment of benign lesions. Thus, despite the well‐established merits of CNB, US‐guided FNAB still represents a cost‐effective and rapid nonoperative diagnostic approach.
Fine needle aspiration of an intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma mimicking a primary thyroid anaplastic carcinoma: A case report with review of the literature
Authors: Mir Fatima , Rohra Prih , Aakash Nfn , Furlan Karina , Ghai Ritu , Reddy Vijaya , Cheng Lin , Gattuso Paolo
Published: August 2020

Intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma is an uncommon malignancy. A 46‐year‐old male presented with a left neck mass. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a hypodense mass in the left thyroid lobe along with evidence of metastatic lymphadenopathy. Aspiration of the left thyroid nodule was performed, and a diagnosis of malignancy was rendered, favoring a primary anaplastic carcinoma. Based on the cytologic diagnosis, the patient underwent a total thyroidectomy. Before the surgery, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium level (PTH = 78 pg/mL; Calcium = 10.6 mg/dL) were found to be minimally elevated. On gross examination, a 3.2 cm mass within the left inferior thyroid lobe was seen. Histopathologic examination and ancillary studies supported the diagnosis of a parathyroid carcinoma. We, hereby present, an exceedingly rare presentation of an intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma with only minimal elevation of PTH and calcium, mimicking a primary anaplastic thyroid carcinoma on cytologic examination.
The bioenergetics of neuronal morphogenesis and regeneration: Frontiers beyond the mitochondrion
Authors: Gallo Gianluca
Published: August 2020

The formation of axons and dendrites during development, and their regeneration following injury, are energy intensive processes. The underlying assembly and dynamics of the cytoskeleton, axonal transport mechanisms, and extensive signaling networks all rely on ATP and GTP consumption. Cellular ATP is generated through oxidative phosphorylation (OxP) in mitochondria, glycolysis and “regenerative” kinase systems. Recent investigations have focused on the role of the mitochondrion in axonal development and regeneration emphasizing the importance of this organelle and OxP in axon development and regeneration. In contrast, the understanding of alternative sources of ATP in neuronal morphogenesis and regeneration remains largely unexplored. This review focuses on the current state of the field of neuronal bioenergetics underlying morphogenesis and regeneration and considers the literature on the bioenergetics of non‐neuronal cell motility to emphasize the potential contributions of non‐mitochondrial energy sources.
Analysis of supplements available to UK consumers purporting to contain selective androgen receptor modulators
Authors: Leaney Amy E. , Beck Paul , Biddle Simon , Brown Paul , Grace Philip B. , Hudson Simon C. , Mawson Deborah H.
Published: August 2020

Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are compounds with specific androgenic properties investigated for the treatment of conditions such as muscle wasting diseases. The reported androgenic properties have resulted in their use by athletes, and consequently they have been on the World Anti‐Doping Agency prohibited list for more than a decade. SARMs have been investigated by pharmaceutical companies as potential drug candidates, but to date no SARM has demonstrated sufficient safety and efficacy to gain clinical approval by either the European Medicines Agency or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Despite their lack of safety approval, SARMs are often illegally marketed as dietary supplements, available for consumers to buy online. In this study, a range of supplement products marketed as SARMs were purchased and analyzed using high resolution accurate mass – mass spectrometry to evaluate the accuracy of product claims and content labeling. This study found discrepancies ranging from a supplement in which no active ingredients were found, to supplements containing undeclared prohibited analytes. Where SARMs were detected, discrepancies were observed between the concentrations measured and those detailed on the product packaging. The outcome of this experiment highlights the high risk of such supplement products to consumers. The inaccurate product claims give rise to uncertainty over both the dose taken and the identity of any of these unapproved drugs. Even for supplements for which the product labeling is correct, the lack of complete toxicity data, especially for combinations of SARMs taken as stacks, means that the safety of these supplements is unknown.
Dispositional optimism is associated with weight status, eating behavior, and eating disorders in a general population‐based study
Authors: Robert Margaux , Buscail Camille , Allès Benjamin , Shankland Rebecca , Tavolacci Marie‐Pierre , Déchelotte Pierre , Courtois Frédéric , Ait‐hadad Wassila , Andreeva Valentina A. , Touvier Mathilde , Hercberg Serge , Péneau Sandrine
Published: August 2020

Objective

The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to assess whether optimism is associated with body mass index (BMI), eating behavior and eating disorders (EDs) in a population‐based study.

Method

In 2016, a total of 32,805 participants aged ≥18 years from the NutriNet‐Santé cohort completed the Life Orientation Test—Revised, assessing dispositional optimism. Height and weight were self‐reported. Eating behavior was assessed with the revised 21‐item Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire. Risk of EDs was evaluated with the Sick‐Control‐One‐Fat‐Food Questionnaire. Linear and Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between optimism, BMI categories, eating behavior and ED risk, controlling for sociodemographic, lifestyle and depressive symptom characteristics.

Results

Our sample was composed of 73.5% women, and the mean age was 55.39 ± 13.70 years. More optimistic participants were less likely to be underweight (OR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.75, 0.89), or obese, particularly class III obese (BMI ≥40 kg/m2) (OR = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.56, 0.84) compared with less optimistic individuals. Optimism was negatively associated with cognitive restraint (β = −.07; 95%CI: −0.08; −0.06), emotional eating (β = −.17; 95% CI: −0.19, −0.16) and uncontrolled eating (β = −.10; 95% CI: −0.11, −0.09). In addition, more optimistic participants had a lower risk of EDs (OR = 0.60; 95% CI: 0.56, 0.64).

Discussion

Our findings showed that optimism was associated with weight status, eating behavior and risk of EDs in both women and men. The causal structure of the underlying observed association remains unclear and should be further investigated.
Electrochemical Quantification of Lead Adsorption on TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Narouei Farideh Hosseini , Kirk Kevin A. , Andreescu Silvana
Published: August 2020

This work describes a rapid easy‐to‐use electrochemical method for quantifying lead (Pb2+) adsorption on metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs), demonstrated here for titanium dioxide (TiO2). The method was able to quantify Pb2+ adsorption for concentrations as low as 0.95 μM, and up to 200 μM in NP dispersions, and to differentiate ion uptake in the presence and absence of a natural organic material, humic acid (HA). The method was selective for Pb2+ against Cu2+, As3+, Zn2+, Cd2+ and Cr3+ ions when measured in the specific potential range from −0.4 to −0.6 V and was successfully demonstrated in water and home‐collected dust.
A Novel Composite Insulation System of Hollow Glass Microspheres and Multilayer Insulation with Self‐Evaporating Vapor Cooled Shield for Liquid Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Xu Xiafan , Xu Hao , Yang Biao , Chen Liubiao , Wang Junjie
Published: August 2020

The efficient storage method of hydrogen energy is a major concern in its practical application. Compared with other hydrogen storage methods, liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage has the advantages of high energy storage density and low storage pressure. However, the temperature of LH2 is significantly lower than room temperature, and heat leakage causes it to evaporate continuously. Thus, an efficient thermal insulation technology is a key to LH2 storage. Herein, based on the traditional multilayer insulation (MLI), a novel insulation system combining hollow glass microspheres (HGMs) that is not sensitive to vacuum with self‐evaporating vapor cooled shield (VCS) that can recover hydrogen cold‐energy is introduced and analyzed. Based on the layer‐by‐layer method, a thermodynamic calculation model is established, and related experimental verification is completed. The results show that the heat leakage of the proposed insulation system is decreased by 45% under high vacuum (10−3 Pa) and 81% under low vacuum (1 Pa) compared with the traditional MLI. The influences of the VCS position, LH2 storage pressure, hot boundary temperature, and vacuum on the thermal insulation performance of the composite thermal insulation system are also analyzed.
CFD Simulation of an Industrial PEM Fuel Cell with Local Degradation Effects
Authors: Fink C. , Gößling S. , Karpenko‐Jereb L. , Urthaler P.
Published: August 2020

The polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell model of a commercial software package is presented. The basic performance model is extended by two chemical degradation effects: ionomer degradation and carbon corrosion including platinum oxidation. The ionomer degradation model describes the ionomer mass loss due to hydrogen peroxide formation and subsequent attack of the ionomer by radicals. The carbon corrosion model calculates the carbon mass loss caused by carbon oxidation and the active area reduction due to platinum oxidation. The degradation models are coupled with an agglomerate model of the catalyst layer. The model is validated against measurements on an industrial cell. For these measurements, the cell is equipped with a segmented measuring board, which is used to measure the current density distribution and high frequency resistance of every segment. In order to test the predictability of the model under different operating conditions, measurements for stoichiometry and pressure variations are carried out. Calculated and measured current density distributions of the cell, aged by an accelerated stress test, are compared for the validation of the degradation model. Moreover, 3D simulation results of the fresh and aged cells are analyzed in detail and the influence of operating conditions on fuel cell aging is pointed out.
Geochemistry, petrogenesis, and tectonic setting of the Los Tuxtlas Volcanic Field, Mexico
Authors: Verma Surendra P. , López‐Loera Héctor , Subramanyam Konduri S. V. , Manikyamba Chakravadhanula
Published: August 2020

We present new major and trace element geochemical data, including the rare‐earth elements (REE), platinum group elements and Au, and combine them with the published information to constrain the highly debated origin of magmas in the Los Tuxtlas Volcanic Field (LTVF) of the Late Miocene to historic age. The LTVF magmas originated in the garnet‐bearing mantle as confirmed from the partial melting models of the REE. The mantle‐derived magmas may have subsequently undergone fractional crystallization of mainly olivine. The controversial tectonic setting of the LTVF was solved by log‐ratio transformed major as well as combined major and trace element data as a continental strike‐slip fault setting during the Miocene–Pliocene. During the Pleistocene to Holocene, the more numerous samples having only major elements alone indicated the continental strike‐slip fault setting, whereas the lesser number of samples having combined major and trace elements were more consistent with the continental extension. Importantly, no geochemical evidence for the involvement of the subducting slab in the magma genesis of the LTVF could be inferred. The inferences presented in this work were consistent with the entirety of geological, geochemical, and geophysical evidence. The multidimensional models also showed that the monogenetic volcanic field of the Xalapa region of the easternmost part of the Mexican Volcanic Belt represents a continental extension setting.
Core needle biopsy for diagnosing lymphoma in cervical lymphadenopathy: Meta‐analysis
Authors: Warshavsky Anton , Rosen Roni , Perry Chava , Muhanna Nidal , Ungar Omer J. , Carmel‐Neiderman Narin Nard , Fliss Dan M. , Horowitz Gilad
Published: August 2020

Background

The diagnostic yield of core needle biopsies (CNB) in cervical lymphadenopathy for lymphoma diagnosis is controversial. The aim of this study was to calculate the accuracy of cervical CNB in diagnosing lymphoma.

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis of all studies on patients presenting with cervical lymphadenopathy and referred to CNB. Patients with a diagnosis other than lymphoma were excluded. All cases diagnosed with lymphoma sufficient to guide treatment based on CNB outcome were considered accurate (actionable) results. A separate meta‐analysis was performed for various lymphoma subtypes.

Results

Three prospective and 19 retrospective studies, comprising 1120 patients, met the inclusion criteria. The rate of actionable lymphoma diagnoses following CNB ranged from 30% to 96.3%, with a random‐effects model of 82.45% (95% confidence interval [CI] =0.76‐0.88) and a fixed‐effects model of 78.3% (95% CI =0.75‐0.80).

Conclusion

CNB for cervical lymphadenopathy in lymphoma cases is relatively accurate in guiding treatment.
The role of a partition on free convection in a trapezoidal shaped building
Authors: Nagaraja R. , Aswatha  , Seetharamu K. N.
Published: August 2020

Heat transfer and fluid flow in a partitioned trapezoidal‐shaped building are carried out. The finite‐volume computational procedure is adopted for numerical simulations. The inclined wall of the building is uniformly heated; the vertical wall is the cold wall, whereas the top and bottom walls are adiabatic. The ranges of parameters studied are the Rayleigh number, Ra (103 ≤ Ra ≤ 106), the location of the partition, d (0.3L ≤ d ≤ 0.9L), and the partition height, h (0.3H ≤ h ≤ 0.9H). The results are presented for different locations and height of the partition in an enclosure in terms of temperature patterns, streamline curves, and the local and overall Nusselt numbers. It is noticed that when the height of the partition increases beyond 0.3H irrespective of the position of the partition, the heat transfer decreases drastically for all Rayleigh numbers. The comfort zones are located in the cavity for different partition heights. Correlations are developed for Nusselt numbers in terms of the Rayleigh number and height of the partition.
The pivotal roles of neddylation pathway in immunoregulation
Authors: Lu Yun , Yang Xuguang
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Protein neddylation, one of the most important posttranslational modifications that tagging neuronal precursor cell‐expressed developmentally downregulated protein 8 onto substrate proteins, plays fundamental roles in the process of many cellular functions. A number of studies have demonstrated the critical roles of neddylation modification in multiple pathophysiological processes, but its regulatory role in the immune system has only been finitely unveiled.

Methods

In this review, the latest advances in the field of neddylation modification in regulating the immune responses are succinctly discussed.

Results

Neddylation modification acts as a crucial modulator of innate immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells) and lymphocytes. Dysregulation of neddylation alters characteristics and functions of those cells due to abnormal degradation of key signaling molecules involved in immunoregulation. Furthermore, the ectopic immune responses caused by the abnormal neddylation play pivotal roles in a variety of immune‐related diseases, such as infection, inflammation, and cancer.

Conclusions

The pivotal roles of neddylation pathway in immunoregulation are attracted more and more attention, which may provide new insights into the pathogenesis of a variety of immune‐related diseases and help to indicate new therapeutic targets and potential treatment strategies.
A cost‐effective approach to increasing participation in patient‐reported outcomes research in cancer: A randomized trial of video invitations
Authors: Signorelli Christina , Wakefield Claire E. , McLoone Jordana K. , Mateos Marion K. , Aaronson Neil K. , Lavoipierre Ange , Cohn Richard J. ,   The ANZCHOG Survivorship Study Group
Published: August 2020

Maximizing participation in cancer research is important to improve the validity and generalizability of research findings. We conducted a four‐arm randomized controlled trial to test the impact of a novel video invitation on participant response. We invited childhood cancer survivors and parents of survivors <16 years to complete questionnaires. We compared response rates to an invitation letter (control) vs receiving the letter plus a video invitation on a flash drive presented by a childhood cancer survivor, a pediatric oncologist or a researcher. We explored factors associated with viewing the video and examined the impact of enclosing the USB on study costs. Overall 54% (634/1176) of questionnaires were returned. Participants who received a video invitation on a USB were more likely to return the questionnaire than those who did not (58% vs 47%, P < .001). Participation rate did not significantly differ by video presenter. Forty‐seven percent of participants who received a USB reported watching the video, of whom 48% reported that the video influenced their decision to participate. Participants with a lower income (OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.25‐0.74, P = .002) were more likely to report watching the video. Participants who received a video invitation required significantly fewer reminder calls than those who only received a written invitation (mean = 1.6 vs 1.1 calls, P < .001), resulting in a 25% recruitment cost‐saving for the study. Adding a USB with a video study invitation to recruitment packages is a cost‐effective way of improving study participation. This is important in an era of declining study participation and underrepresentation of vulnerable populations in research.
Microfinance and poverty reduction: New evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Khan Arshad A. , Khan Sufyan U. , Fahad Shah , Ali Muhammad A. S. , Khan Aftab , Luo Jianchao
Published: August 2020

Microfinance is key to reducing poverty in Pakistan. While comprehensive finance is frequently considered as, it creates inclusive growth and poverty reduction in poor communities, and can be boosted by ease of finance. However, when the poor people are involved in the broader scale (different types of poverty level), can this microfinance work? We used an econometric model to test the symmetry approaches of the comprehensive financial organizations and the poor in poverty reduction activities to find the answers. Keeping this in view, we studied different determinants related borrowers for the poverty reduction with respect to access to Micro finance institutes (MFI) and productive loan. Despite some limitations, such as those arising from potential unobservable important determinants of access to MFIs, significant positive effect of MFI productive loans has been confirmed. The significance of “treatment effect” of coefficients has been verified by probit model. In addition, we found that loans for productive purposes were more important for poverty reduction by MFB (Microfinance banks) than MFI. However, in urban areas, simple access to MFIs has larger average poverty‐reducing effects than the access to loans from MFIs for productive purposes. This leads to exploring service delivery opportunities that provide an additional avenue to monitor the usage of loans to enhance the outreach. Therefore, the results showed by probit model that access to MFI was better in urban areas and male borrowers thus achieved more loan. Therefore, it is suggested that for the poverty reduction, there is a dire need to improve and localize the Microfinance institutions in rural areas as well as to promote group lending methodology to avoid risk of getting loans and increase the number of both male and female savers. Thus, the saving value will be increased and side by side interest rate will be significantly achieved. Hence, it is concluded that the goal of providing sustainable financial services implicitly implies that MFIs provide financial services to the poor, whenever they find it profitable to do so. The removal of subsidy and the absence of interest rate restrictions could make the market for the poor become even worse as the market occupiers may act in their own interest. The powerful push will be needed from national economic and social impacts for the increasing support for microfinance.
Clinical pharmacist services within intensive care unit recovery clinics: An opinion of the critical care practice and research network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Mohammad Rima A. , Betthauser Kevin D. , Korona Rebecca Bookstaver , Coe Antoinette B. , Kolpek Jimmi Hatton , Fritschle Andrew C. , Jagow Benjamin , Kenes Michael , MacTavish Pamela , Slampak‐Cindric Angela A. , Whitten Jessica A. , Jones Carol , Simonelli Robert , Rowlands Ian , Stollings Joanna L.
Published: August 2020

Intensive care unit recovery clinics (ICU‐RCs) have been proposed as a potential mechanism to address the multifaceted unmet needs of intensive care unit (ICU) survivors and caregivers. The needs of this population include, but are not limited to, medication optimization, addressing physical function and psychological needs, coordination of care, and other interventions that may help in improving patient recovery and reducing the rate of preventable readmissions. The objective of this opinion paper is to identify and describe clinical pharmacy services for the management of ICU survivors and their caregivers in an ICU‐RC. The goals are to guide the establishment and development of clinical pharmacist involvement in ICU‐RCs and to highlight ICU recovery research and educational opportunities. Recommendations provided in this paper are based on the following: a review of published data on clinical pharmacist involvement in the ICU‐RCs; a consensus of clinical pharmacists who provide direct patient care to ICU survivors and caregivers; and a review of published guidelines and literature focusing on the management of ICU survivors and caregivers. These recommendations define areas of clinical pharmacist involvement in ICU‐RCs. Consequently, clinical pharmacists can promote education on Post Intensive Care Syndrome and Post Intensive Care Syndrome‐Family; improve medication adherence; facilitate appropriate referrals to primary care providers and specialists; ensure comprehensive medication management and medication reconciliation; provide assessment of inappropriate and appropriate medications after hospitalization; address adverse drug events, medication errors, and drug interactions; promote preventive measures; and facilitate medication acquisition with the goal of improving patient outcomes and reducing health care system costs.
Clinical Utility of Computer-Aided Diagnosis of Vertebral Fractures From Computed Tomography Images
Authors: Kolanu Nithin , Silverstone Elizabeth J , Ho Bao H , Pham Hiep , Hansen Ash , Pauley Emma , Quirk Anna R , Sweeney Sarah C , Center Jacqueline R , Pocock Nicholas A
Published: August 2020

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are a risk factor for morbidity and mortality, frequently asymptomatic and often present in computed tomography (CT) scans performed for unrelated conditions. Computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) of VCF from such images can potentially improve identification and treatment of osteoporosis. This single-blinded, single tertiary center study compared a CAD (Zebra Medical Vision®) to an adjudicated imaging specialist reevaluation using a retrospective consecutive sample of abdominal and thoracic CT scans (n = 2357) performed as part of routine care. Subjects over 50 years between January 1, 2019 and May 12, 2019 were included. Duplicates and unanalyzable scans were excluded resulting in a total of 1696 CT scans. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated for all VCF and for Genant grades 2 or 3 (ie, height loss of >25%) using imaging specialist as the gold standard. Prestudy VCF reporting by hospital-rostered radiologist was used to calculate the number of scans needed to screen (NNS) to detect one additional VCF using CAD. Prevalence of any VCF was 24% (406/1696) and of Genant 2/3 VCF was 18% (280/1570). The sensitivity and specificity were 54% and 92%, for all fractures, respectively, and 65% and 92% for Genant 2/3 fractures, respectively. Accuracy for any VCF, and for detection of Genant 2/3 VCF, was 83% and 88%, respectively. Of 221 CAD-detected VCFs, 133 (60.2%) were reported prestudy resulting in 88 additional fractures (72 Genant 2/3) being identified by CAD. NNS to detect one additional VCF was 19 scans for all fractures and 23 for Genant 2/3 fractures. Thus, the CAD tested in this study had a high specificity with moderate sensitivity to detect incidental vertebral fractures in CT scans performed for routine care. A low NNS suggests it is an efficient tool to assist radiologists and clinicians to improve detection and reporting of vertebral fractures. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
A founder noncoding GALT variant interfering with splicing causes galactosemia
Authors: Latchman Kumarie , Brown Jeanette , Sineni Claire J. , Ragin‐Dames Lorrien , Guo Shengru , Huang Jingyu , Thorson Willa , Hacker Stephanie , Barbouth Deborah , Tekin Mustafa , Bademci Guney
Published: August 2020

Galactosemia is a rare, treatable hereditary disorder of carbohydrate metabolism. We investigated the etiology of decreased GALT enzyme activity in a cohort of newborns referred by the Florida Newborn Screening Program with no detectable GALT variants in diagnostic molecular tests. Six affected individuals from four families with Guatemalan heritage were included. GALT enzyme activity ranged from 20% to 34% of normal. Clinical findings were unremarkable except for speech delay in two children. Via genome sequencing followed by Sanger confirmation we showed that all affected individuals were homozygous for a deep intronic GALT variant, c.1059+390A>G, which segregated as an autosomal recessive trait in all families. The intronic variant disrupts splicing and leads to a premature termination and is associated with a single haplotype flanking GALT, suggesting a founder effect. In conclusion, we present a deep intronic GALT variant leading to a biochemical variant form of galactosemia. This variant remains undiagnosed until it is specifically targeted in molecular testing.
Effects of digestate on biomass of a selected energy crop and soil properties
Authors: Tan Furong , Zhu Qili , Guo Xujing , He Lin
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

A large number of digestates have not been fully utilized due to a lack of scientific, reasonable guidance, as well as imperfect technology. Hybrid giant Napier has great potential for use as a type of energy plant. As such, this study investigated the effects of digestate on the growth of a candidate energy crop and examined whether digestate was an ecologically viable means for soil restoration.

RESULTS

The results showed that the total yields of all treatment groups receiving irrigation of digestate were higher (5.19–26.00%) than those of the control. The total phosphorus, total potassium, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium content of the soil had also increased after digestate application, compared with the control. Urease activities for all treatments increased 15.28 to 69.44% more than that of the corresponding control. Soil dissolved organic matter (DOM) mainly contained humic‐like and fulvic‐like components through the application of digestate. More fluorescent components were also identified by two‐dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D‐COS). These fluorescent components can improve the aromaticity and molecular weight of soil DOM so as to improve soil quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Digestate improved not only the aboveground biomass accumulation, but also the chemical properties of the soil, which was an appropriate strategy for restoring soil quality and contributing to the sustainable development of marginal. The long‐term impact of digestate application on soil quality will require additional long‐term experiments. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry