bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular Synthesis and X‐ray Crystal Structure of a Designed Protein Heterocatenane
Authors: Liu Yajie , Duan Zelin , Fang Jing , Zhang Fan , Xiao Junyu , Zhang Wen‐Bin
Published: June 2020

Herein, we report the biosynthesis of protein heterocatenanes using a programmed sequence of multiple post‐translational processing events including intramolecular chain entanglement, in situ backbone cleavage, and spontaneous cyclization. The approach is general, autonomous, and can obviate the need for any additional enzymes. The catenane topology was convincingly proven using a combination of SDS‐PAGE, LC‐MS, size exclusion chromatography, controlled proteolytic digestion, and protein crystallography. The X‐ray crystal structure clearly shows two mechanically interlocked protein rings with intact folded domains. It opens new avenues in the nascent field of protein‐topology engineering.
Catalytic Asymmetric Electrochemical α‐Arylation of Cyclic β‐Ketocarbonyls with Anodic Benzyne Intermediates
Authors: Li Longji , Li Yao , Fu Niankai , Zhang Long , Luo Sanzhong
Published: June 2020

Asymmetric catalysis with benzyne remains elusive because of the highly fleeting and nonpolar nature of benzyne intermediates. Reported herein is an electrochemical approach for the oxidative generation of benzynes (cyclohexyne) and its successful merging with chiral primary aminocatalysis, formulating the first catalytic asymmetric enamine–benzyne (cyclohexyne) coupling reaction. Cobalt acetate was identified to stabilize the in situ generated arynes and facilitate its coupling with an enamine. This catalytic enamine‐benzyne protocol provides a concise method for the construction of diverse α‐aryl (α‐cyclohexenyl) quaternary carbon stereogenic centers with good stereoselectivities.
Hydrochromic CsPbBr3 Nanocrystals for Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Yu Xiaoya , Wu Linzhong , Yang Di , Cao Muhan , Fan Xing , Lin Haiping , Zhong Qixuan , Xu Yong , Zhang Qiao
Published: June 2020

Hydrochromic materials that can reversibly change color upon water treatment have attracted much attention owing to their potential applications in diverse fields. Herein, for the first time, we report that space‐confined CsPbBr3 nanocrystals (NCs) are hydrochromic. When CsPbBr3 NCs are loaded into a porous matrix, reversible transition between luminescent CsPbBr3 and non‐luminescent CsPb2Br5 can be achieved upon the exposure/removal of water. The potential applications of hydrochromic CsPbBr3 NCs in anti‐counterfeiting are demonstrated by using CsPbBr3 NCs@mesoporous silica nanospheres (around 100 nm) as the starting material. Owing to the small particle size and negatively charged surface, the as‐prepared particles can be laser‐jet printed with high precision and high speed. We demonstrate the excellent stability over repeated transformation cycles without color fade. This new discovery may not only deepen the understanding of CsPbX3, but also open a new way to design CsPbX3 materials for new applications.
Maximization of Spatial Charge Density: An Approach to Ultrahigh Energy Density of Capacitive Charge Storage
Authors: Ma Hongyun , Chen Hongwu , Wu Mingmao , Chi Fengyao , Liu Feng , Bai Jiaxin , Cheng Huhu , Li Chun , Qu Liangti
Published: June 2020

Capacitive energy storage has advantages of high power density, long lifespan, and good safety, but is restricted by low energy density. Inspired by the charge storage mechanism of batteries, a spatial charge density (SCD) maximization strategy is developed to compensate this shortage by densely and neatly packing ionic charges in capacitive materials. A record high SCD (ca. 550 C cm−3) was achieved by balancing the valance and size of charge‐carrier ions and matching the ion sizes with the pore structure of electrode materials, nearly five times higher than those of conventional ones (ca. 120 C cm−3). The maximization of SCD was confirmed by Monte Carlo calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and in situ electrochemical Raman spectroscopy. A full‐cell supercapacitor was further constructed; it delivers an ultrahigh energy density of 165 Wh L−1 at a power density of 150 WL−1 and retains 120 Wh L−1 even at 36 kW L−1, opening a pathway towards high‐energy‐density capacitive energy storage.
Core@Satellite Janus Nanomotors with pH‐Responsive Multi‐phoretic Propulsion
Authors: Xing Yi , Zhou Mengyun , Xu Tailin , Tang Songsong , Fu Yang , Du Xin , Su Lei , Wen Yongqiang , Zhang Xueji , Ma Tianyi
Published: June 2020

We report core@satellite Janus mesoporous silica‐Pt@Au (JMPA) nanomotors with pH‐responsive multi‐phoretic propulsion. The JMPA nanomotors first undergo self‐diffusiophoretic propulsion in 3.0 % H2O2 due to the isolation of the Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) from the PtNPs layer. Then the weak acidity of H2O2 can trigger the disassembly and reassembly of the AuNPs, resulting in the Janus distribution of large AuNPs aggregates. Such reconstruction of JMPA leads to the contact between PtNPs and AuNPs aggregates, thus changing the propulsion mechanism to self‐electrophoresis. The asymmetric and aggregated AuNPs also enable the generation of a thermal gradient under laser irradiation, which propels the JMPA nanomotors by self‐thermophoresis. Such multi‐phoretic propulsion offers considerable promise for developing advanced nanomachines with a stimuli‐responsive switch of propulsion modes in biomedical applications.
Environmental influences on the recruitment dynamics of juvenile European eels, Anguilla anguilla, in a small estuary of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Podda Cinzia , Palmas Francesco , Frau Giacomo , Chessa Giovanna , Culurgioni Jacopo , Diciotti Riccardo , Fois Nicola , Sabatini Andrea
Published: June 2020

The European eel, Anguilla anguilla, is a catadromous and migratory species of commercial importance. Its complex life cycle results in its exposure to many risk factors, which have resulted in stock declines across all life stages since the 1970s.

The temporal recruitment dynamics of juvenile eels (glass eels and elvers) were investigated in a small Mediterranean estuary (Sardinia, Italy). The composition of the population and the monthly and seasonal variations in the abundances of juvenile eels was assessed over 78 sampling events (from February 2017 to February 2018). Furthermore, the effects of abiotic variables on the abundances of glass eels and elvers were investigated using generalized additive models (GAMs).

Glass eels had the greatest abundance during the winter months, whereas elvers had the greatest abundance during spring. Modelling revealed that the abundance of glass eels was mostly explained by the combined effects of water temperature (12.3–14.5 °C), tidal coefficient (40–110 cm), moon phase, season, and river mouth condition, whereas the abundance of elvers was associated with water temperature (14–21 °C), dissolved oxygen content (>7 mg/L), and season. These results suggest that the annual recruitment of juvenile eels occurs throughout the year, with clear seasonal migration dynamics.

The use of multiple statistical approaches allowed us to identify the importance of several environmental variables in regulating the recruitment dynamics, providing useful information for conserving eel stocks through the restoration of the natural flow regime and the connectivity between freshwater habitats and the sea.
Incidence of COVID‐19 in Patients With Rheumatic Diseases Treated With Targeted Immunosuppressive Drugs: What Can We Learn From Observational Data?
Authors: Favalli Ennio Giulio , Monti Sara , Ingegnoli Francesca , Balduzzi Silvia , Caporali Roberto , Montecucco Carlomaurizio
Published: June 2020

Objective

To describe the incidence and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) in patients with rheumatic diseases treated with targeted synthetic or biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) compared with that in the general population living in the same Italian region.

Methods

Patients followed up at 2 rheumatology referral centers in Lombardy from February 25, 2020 to April 10, 2020 were invited to participate in a survey designed to identify patients who had confirmed COVID‐19, close contact with others with confirmed COVID‐19, or symptoms of the infection, and to detect changes in work, behavior, and disease management made in an attempt to prevent infection. The incidence of COVID‐19 in the Lombardy population was obtained from the National Institute of Statistics. COVID‐19 cases were confirmed by nasopharyngeal swab.

Results

The survey was given to 955 patients (531 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 203 patients with psoriatic arthritis, 181 patients with spondyloarthritis, and 40 patients with connective tissue diseases, vasculitides, or autoinflammatory diseases). These patients had a mean age of 53.7 years, and 67.4% were women. The rate of response to the survey was 98.05%, and the incidence of confirmed COVID‐19 cases was consistent with that in the general population (0.62% versus 0.66%; P = 0.92). None of the patients had severe complications or required intensive care treatment, and all of the patients who tested positive for COVID‐19 temporarily discontinued ongoing targeted synthetic drug or biologic DMARD therapy. Almost all patients took precautions to prevent the COVID‐19 infection (90.6%), and almost all continued treatment with targeted synthetic drugs or biologic DMARDs (93.2%). Disease activity remained stable in 89.5% of patients.

Conclusion

Our results reflected the attitude of patients with rheumatic diseases regarding the prevention of the infection while maintaining their long‐term treatment regimens. The incidence and severity of COVID‐19 in patients treated with targeted synthetic drugs or biologic DMARDs was not significantly different from that in the general population in the same region.
Fluorobenziodoxole−BF3 Reagent for Iodo(III)etherification of Alkynes in Ethereal Solvent
Authors: Chai Jinkui , Ding Wei , Wu Junliang , Yoshikai Naohiko
Published: June 2020

A combination of fluorobenziodoxole (FBX) and BF3 ⋅ OEt2 in cyclopentyl methyl ether promotes regio‐ and stereoselective addition of benziodoxole and methoxy groups to alkynes. This difunctionalization reaction tolerates a variety of functionalized internal and terminal alkynes to afford trans‐β‐alkoxyvinylbenziodoxoles, which represent versatile precursors to stereochemically well‐defined multisubstituted vinyl ethers. The reaction is proposed to involve cleavage of the I−F bond of FBX by BF3, followed by electrophilic activation of the alkyne by the resulting cationic IIII species that triggers the nucleophilic addition of the ethereal oxygen.
A Mapping of the Physical and Electrochemical Properties of Composite Lithium‐Ion Batteries Anodes Made from Graphite, Sn, and Si
Authors: Smrekar Sacha , Bracamonte M. Victoria , Primo Emiliano N. , Luque Guillermina L. , Thomas Jorge , Barraco Daniel E. , Leiva Ezequiel
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, there is an evident need to improve the current Li‐ion battery systems, in order to make them more reliable, durable and safe. Regarding this objective, the application of composite materials –based mainly on the combination of Si, Sn and carbon– appears as a very promising alternative for future anode materials. However, despite the great amount of publications dealing with this topic, there is not a systematic study that allows interpreting and understanding how the combination of these materials affects the electrochemical performance of the anodes prepared with them. In light of this need, in this work we propose a straightforward ball‐milling procedure to prepare Sn/Si/graphite composites with different mass proportions of each material. For all compositions, a systematic study was performed in order to determine how each material affects the specific capacity, capacity fading and stability towards a change in loading current. We found that the material prepared with Sn33Si33C33 appears to be the most promising one, delivering a reversible capacity of 906.9 mAh g−1 even after 120 cycles at 0.5 A g−1, thus encouraging the development of new composites based on these materials for industrial applications.
Effect of an individualized versus standard pneumoperitoneum pressure strategy on postoperative recovery: a randomized clinical trial in laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Díaz-Cambronero O , Mazzinari G , Flor Lorente B , García Gregorio N , Robles-Hernandez D , Olmedilla Arnal L E , Martin de Pablos A , Schultz M J , Errando C L , Argente Navarro M P
Published: June 2020

Background

It remains uncertain whether individualization of pneumoperitoneum pressures during laparoscopic surgery improves postoperative recovery. This study compared an individualized pneumoperitoneum pressure (IPP) strategy with a standard pneumoperitoneum pressure (SPP) strategy with respect to postoperative recovery after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Methods

This was a multicentre RCT. The IPP strategy comprised modified patient positioning, deep neuromuscular blockade, and abdominal wall prestretching targeting the lowest intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) that maintained acceptable workspace. The SPP strategy comprised patient positioning according to the surgeon's preference, moderate neuromuscular blockade and a fixed IAP of 12 mmHg. The primary endpoint was physiological postoperative recovery, assessed by means of the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale. Secondary endpoints included recovery in other domains and overall recovery, the occurrence of intraoperative and postoperative complications, duration of hospital stay, and plasma markers of inflammation up to postoperative day 3.

Results

Of 166 patients, 85 received an IPP strategy and 81 an SPP strategy. The IPP strategy was associated with a higher probability of physiological recovery (odds ratio (OR) 2·77, 95 per cent c.i. 1·19 to 6·40, P = 0·017; risk ratio (RR) 1·82, 1·79 to 1·87, P = 0·049). The IPP strategy was also associated with a higher probability of emotional (P = 0·013) and overall (P = 0·011) recovery. Intraoperative adverse events were less frequent with the IPP strategy (P < 0·001) and the plasma neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio was lower (P = 0·029). Other endpoints were not affected.

Conclusion

In this cohort of patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery, an IPP strategy was associated with faster recovery, fewer intraoperative complications and less inflammation than an SPP strategy. Registration number: NCT02773173 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
How do firms achieve sustainability through green innovation under external pressures of environmental regulation and market turbulence?
Authors: Qiu Lu , Hu Die , Wang Yu
Published: June 2020

Analyses in the fields of environmental and innovation research have hindered our understanding of the real effects of external drivers of firms' green innovation and sustainability behaviors on financial performance. This study compares the ways in which two different external factors drive firms to be green innovative: environmental regulation and market turbulence. By dividing green innovation into green process innovation and green product innovation, we propose that environmental regulation increases financial performance mainly through green process innovation rather than through green product innovation, and market turbulence affects financial performance mainly through green product innovation rather than through green process innovation. The results of an empirical analysis based on a mediation model and panel data on 472 Chinese listed firms for 2006–2017 lend support to our hypotheses. Our study contributes to the green innovation management and sustainability literature by offering a holistic framework for examining how firms pursue green innovation and sustainability in response to two different forms of external pressure.
Absorption of sulphur dioxide by electrosprayed droplets
Authors: Di Natale Francesco , Carotenuto Claudia , Parisi Arianna , Lancia Amedeo
Published: June 2020

This paper describes and discusses experimental results on the absorption of sulphur dioxide in electrified water sprays, either when the polluted gas is treated as is or when the gas is exposed to a corona source to ionize the sulphur dioxide. The experiments revealed that an electrified spray with a charge‐to‐mass ratio of 50 μC · kg−1 enabled the absorption rate of droplets to double, regardless of their polarities. Corona charging gave rise to an increase in the SO2 depletion rate over the scrubber wall, while negligible effects appeared on the actual droplets absorption rate. These findings suggested that faster absorption rates mostly, though not uniquely, depend on the modifications on the morphological and interfacial properties of the sprayed droplets induced by the free electric charge imposed on their surface. Conversely, the absorption rates were negligibly affected by the electrical interactions between droplets (either charged or uncharged) and the sulphur dioxide ions/radicals originating from the corona source.
Rigorous design and control of thermally integrated pressure‐swing reactive distillation process for isobutyl acetate production considering the effect of column pressures
Authors: Zhang Qingrui , Liu Yan , Xu Pengfei , Wang Yujun
Published: June 2020

By studying the effect of pressure on relative volatility, azeotrope composition, and net reaction rate, a rigorous pressure‐swing thermally integrated reactive distillation (PST‐RD) process for isobutyl acetate synthesis is proposed. The steady‐state and dynamic characteristics of the PST‐RD process are evaluated based on Aspen and Aspen Dynamic. Steady‐state optimization results show that the energy consumption and the total annual cost (TAC) reduced by 42.32% and 34.20% compared with the conventional two‐column process, respectively. Subsequently, two control structures of the PST‐RD process under a rigorous model are developed and evaluated by large disturbances in throughput and feed composition. Dynamic simulation results show that peak dynamic transients can be effectively reduced by adding a Q/F feedforward control structure. Furthermore, the effective heat integration of high‐pressure (HP) and low‐pressure (LP) columns can be realized by implementing composition/pressure cascade control when the capacity of the LP column increases.
CeO2‐CrOy/γ‐Al2O3 redox catalyst for the oxidative dehydrogenation of propane to propylene
Authors: Zuo Cheng , Wu Man , Zhang Xiuli , Guo Qingjie
Published: June 2020

CeO2‐CrOy loaded on γ‐Al2O3 was investigated in this work for the oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of propane under oxygen‐free conditions. The ODH experiments of propane were conducted in a fluidized bed at 500°C‐600°C under 0.1 Mpa. The prepared catalyst was characterized by N2 adsorption‐desorption measurements, H2‐temperature‐programmed reduction, O2‐temperature‐programmed desorption, NH3‐temperature‐programmed desorption, x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and x‐ray diffraction. The change in the selectivity of propylene resulted from the thermal cracking of the propane and the competition for lattice oxygen in the catalyst between propylene formation and propane and propylene combustion. Therefore, to achieve higher propylene yield in the industry, the reaction temperature should be 550°C‐575°C for the 17.5Cr‐2Ce/Al catalyst. The results of H2‐TPR (from 0.2218 mmol/g‐0.3208 mmol/g) revealed that the addition of CeO2 can enhance the oxygen capacity of CrOy. Compared with that for 17.5Cr/Al, the conversion can be enhanced from 22.4% to 28.5% and the selectivity of propylene can be improved from 72.2% to 75.9% for the 17.5Cr‐2Ce/Al catalyst. In addition, CeO2 can inhibit the evolution of lattice oxygen (O2−) to electrophilic oxygen species (O2−), causing the average COx (CO and CO2) selectivity to decrease from 9.64% to 6.31%.
Sustainable management and design of the energy‐water‐food nexus using a mathematical programming approach
Authors: Saif Yousef , Almansoori Ali , Bilici Ibrahim , Elkamel Ali
Published: June 2020

Global primary and secondary resources are important for economic growth. Resource management and environment conservation are currently frequently discussed topics worldwide. In this study, a discrete optimization model formulation is presented for an integrated energy, water, and food (EWF) supply chain problem. The optimization model examines the temporal and spatial integration of the EWF supply chain elements to provide optimal infrastructure capacity expansion of essential commodities within the EWF system, and their corresponding periodic optimal supply for a given region. Furthermore, the model considers endogenous demand between the EWF elements that reflect the interdependency of nexus elements. A mixed integer linear programming model is developed to assist in the process of optimal infrastructure capacity expansion and operation of the EWF system. A case study is given to show the application of the proposed mathematical programming model. Several scenarios are assumed for the case study under different commodity prices and climate change conditions. In addition, diversification in the energy and agriculture sectors is examined by shifting from international refined sugar trading to bioethanol production. The results show economic gains of ~10% under the emergence of bioethanol production compared with the business‐as‐usual scenario. Production dynamic exits for the production of refined sugar, bioethanol, and power from sugarcane and bagasse resources over time in the considered sale price range for the refined sugar and bioethanol products.
Exercise: The ultimate treatment to all ailments?
Authors: Kasiakogias Alexandros , Sharma Sanjay
Published: June 2020

Extensive clinical research has provided robust evidence that exercise is a cost‐effective measure to substantially alleviate the burden of a large number of diseases, many of which belong to the cardiovascular (CV) spectrum. In terms of cardiac benefit, the positive effects of exercise are attributed to improvements in standard risk factors for atherosclerosis, as well as to its positive impact on several pathophysiological mechanisms for CV diseases. For secondary prevention, exercise, optimally in the context of a cardiac rehabilitation program, has been shown to improve functional capacity and survival. Clinicians should encourage physical activity and provide exercise recommendations for all patients, taking into consideration any underlying pathology. In the present review, the benefits of exercise for the prevention and treatment of major CV risk factors and heart conditions are analyzed.
Zero‐fluoroscopy transseptal puncture guided by right atrial electroanatomical mapping combined with intracardiac echocardiography: A single‐center experience
Authors: Zhang Guangping , Cheng Liting , Liang Zhuo , Zhang Junmeng , Dong Ruiqing , Hang Fei , Wang Xinlu , Wang Ziyu , Zhao Lin , Wang Zefeng , Wu Yongquan
Published: June 2020

Background

Right atrial electroanatomical mapping may be combined with SoundStar 3D diagnostic ultrasound catheter (EAM‐ICE) as a zero‐fluoroscopy procedure for radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). We aimed to evaluate the efficiency and safety of zero‐fluoroscopy transseptal puncture guided by EAM‐ICE and fluoroscopy combined with intracardiac echocardiography (F‐ICE) in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF).

Hypothesis

Zero‐fluoroscopy transseptal puncture is an effective and safe procedure.

Methods

This study had a prospective design. A total of 57 patients with PAF were enrolled and assigned to two groups. Twenty‐seven patients were enrolled in the EAM‐ICE group, and 30 patients were enrolled in the F‐ICE group.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in baseline patient characteristics between groups. Transseptal puncture was successful in all patients (57/57, 100%). Total procedure time and duration of transseptal puncture were lower in the F‐ICE group (199.4 ± 26.0 minutes vs 150.7 ± 22.1 minutes, P = 0.000; 118.4 ± 19.7 vs 70.5 ± 13.5 minutes, P = 0.000). There was no use of fluoroscopy in the EAM‐ICE group (0 mGy vs 70.5 ± 13.5 mGy); the duration of fluoroscopy in the EAM‐ICE group was negligible (0 minutes vs 5.4 ± 1.9 minutes). No procedural complication occurred in either group.

Conclusions

EAM‐ICE guided zero‐fluoroscopy transseptal puncture is an effective and safe procedure.
Non‐conventional Hydrogen Bonding and Aromaticity: A Systematic Study on Model Nucleobases and Their Solvated Clusters
Authors: Jena Subhrakant , Tulsiyan Kiran Devi , Rana Abhijit , Choudhury Shubhranshu S. , Biswal Himansu S.
Published: June 2020

The conceptual development of aromaticity is essential to rationalize and understand the structure and behavior of aromatic heterocycles. This work addresses for the first time, the interconnection between aromaticity and sulfur/selenium centered hydrogen bonds (S/SeCHBs) involved in representative heterocycle models of canonical nucleobases (2‐Pyridone; 2PY) and its sulfur (2‐Thiopyridone; 2TPY) and selenium (2‐Selenopyridone; 2SePY) analogs. The nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) and gauge induced magnetic current density (GIMIC) values suggested significant reduction of aromaticity upon replacement of exocyclic carbonyl oxygen with sulfur and selenium. However, we observed two‐fold (57 %) and three‐fold (80 %) enhancement in the aromaticity for 2TPY dimer, and 2SePY dimer, respectively which are connected through S/SeCHBs. Aromaticity enhancement was also noticed in 1 : 1 H‐bonded complexes (heterodimers), micro hydrated clusters and for bulk hydration. It is expected that exocyclic S and Se incorporation into heterocycles without compromising aromatic loss would definitely reinforce to design new supramolecular building blocks via S/SeCH‐bonded complexes.
The utility of flow cytometry in the diagnostic work up of malignant effusions due to nonhematopoietic neoplasms
Authors: Wong‐Arteta Jhonatan , Rey Mercedes , Aragón Larraitz , Gil‐Rodríguez Eva , Bujanda Luis
Published: June 2020

Malignant pleural effusion and peritoneal carcinomatosis are frequent causes of effusion. Cytological evaluation (PAP‐stained slides followed by immunocytochemistry, IHC, if applicable) is currently the gold standard for the diagnosis of malignant effusions, but its sensitivity varies between 40 and 80%, being a time‐consuming technique. Although flow cytometry (FC) is not routinely used in the diagnosis or follow‐up of nonhematopoietic neoplasms, it has the advantage of being rapidly applicable to fresh samples, potentially decreasing the time for the diagnosis. The main objective of this study was to assess the utility of FC as a confirmatory tool in the diagnosis of neoplastic effusions, based on the expression of EpCAM antibody in tumor cells versus the cytological evaluation. In this work 1,535 serous fluids were collected, of which 101 (68 pleural, 33 ascites) were selected through a screening algorithm and sent to the FC and cytological evaluation. Seventy‐three of these samples (46 pleural, 27 ascites) were considered malignant as determined by clinical, cytological and radiological criteria. According to our data, 75% (55/73) of these samples were positive by Cytology/IHC and 74% (54/73) by FC. We noticed that, although the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve were similar, the turn‐around time was shorter when using FC. Moreover, these results clearly improved by combining both techniques. We conclude that FC provides information about malignant effusions faster than immunohistochemical staining, and we believe that performing both techniques in parallel would improve diagnostic performance.
The Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytopathology: Single center experience with cell blocks
Authors: Behaeghe Marie , Vander Poorten Vincent , Hermans Robert , Politis Constantinus , Weynand Birgit , Hauben Esther
Published: June 2020

Background

Salivary gland fine needle aspiration (FNA) has a well‐established role in the evaluation of salivary gland lesions. The Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytopathology (MSRSGC) was developed in 2018 to accomplish a standardized reporting across institutions. This classification is predominantly based on the use of direct smears. This single center study aims to evaluate and further validate the MSRSGC based on the sole use of cell blocks and carry out a risk assessment based on follow up histopathology.

Methods

A total of 359 FNA specimens from 343 patients processed as cell blocks between 2012 and 2018 were retrieved, with histologic follow‐up available in 235 cases. The cytological diagnosis were reclassified according to the MSRSGC categories: non‐diagnostic, non‐neoplastic, atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), benign neoplasm, salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential (SUMP), suspicious for malignancy (SFM), and malignant. The use of ancillary immunohistochemistry or molecular testing was recorded. The risk of malignancy (ROM) was calculated for each diagnostic category.

Results

Overall accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 92.9%, 75.9%, 97.9%, 91.7%, and 95%, respectively. The ROM for the non‐diagnostic, non‐neoplastic, AUS benign neoplasms, SUMP, SFM and malignant categories were 13.8%, 14.2%, 30%, 6.3%, 20.8%, 60%, and 100%, respectively.

Conclusion

This large single center retrospective series further validates the MSRSGC. The proposed diagnostic classification is reproducible with use of cell blocks. Discrepancies in number of cases per category and ROM are based on cross‐institution variabilities, pre‐FNA diagnostics (imaging) and ancillary tests.
Diagnostic role of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the evaluation of gall bladder lesions: an institutional experience
Authors: Selhi Pavneet Kaur , Singh Yasmeen , Jain Sonia , Kaur Harpreet , Sood Neena
Published: June 2020

Background

Carcinoma of the gall bladder is the most common malignancy of the biliary tract. Ultrasonography guided Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) plays a crucial role in early detection of gall bladder (GB) lesions. Early diagnosis of GB lesions is a necessity in view of rising trend in GB carcinoma related mortality in India. The aim of this study is to determine the diagnostic accuracy of pre‐operative ultrasonography guided FNAC in the diagnosis of GB masses.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study performed at a tertiary care university hospital over a period of one and a half years. A total of 47 patients with clinico‐radiological suspicion of GB malignancy were subjected to USG guided FNA. 20 of these patients underwent diagnostic Trucut biopsy in addition to FNA.

Results

Forty‐one out of 47 patients analyzed were positive for malignancy with female preponderance; MF ratio of 0.6:1. There were 29 females (61.8%) and 18 males (38.2%) in the range of 34 to 85 years. Cytomorphology was inconclusive for malignancy in two patients and unsatisfactory in one case. Two were labeled as chronic cholecystitis and one as acute cholecystitis. Adenocarcinoma was the most common malignancy found in 36 patients (76.6%).

Conclusion

USG guided FNAC is a rapid, safe and successful diagnostic procedure with high sensitivity for diagnosis of GB lesions. In the present scenario of increasing incidence of GB malignancy, FNAC has proved to be a useful first choice of investigation in the detection of GB lesions.
The mechanism of Arhalofenate in alleviating hyperuricemia―Activating PPARγ thereby reducing caspase‐1 activity
Authors: Wang Guihong , Zuo Ting , Li Ran
Published: June 2020

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is an important risk factor for renal diseases and contributes to gout. Arhalofenate (Arha) has been proved to have uricosuric activity as an inhibitor of URAT1, organic anion transporter 4 (OAT4) and OAT10. However, the effects of Arha on HUA remain unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate whether Arha could alleviate HUA and uncovered the underlying mechanism in vitro. HK‐2 cells were exposed to uric acid (UA) to simulate HUA in vitro. Then cells were treated with Arha, caspase‐1 inhibitor Belnacasan (Beln), caspase‐11 inhibitor Wedelolactone (Wede) and PPARγ inhibitor Mifobate, respectively. The alteration of cell proliferation, inflammation, pyroptosis and expression of related proteins were detected. Results showed that UA exposure inhibited cell viability and increased IL‐1β and IL‐18 generation in a concentration dependent manner. Meanwhile, UA activated the cleavage of gasdermin D (GSDMD), enhanced the protein expression of URAT1, OAT4, TLR4, caspase‐1, and caspase‐11 and reduced PPARγ expression. While the presence of Arha or Beln enhanced cell viability and inhibited cleavage of GSDMD. Wede slightly increased cell viability but failed to prevent GSDMD cleavage. The expression of related proteins except caspase‐11was also recovered by Arha. Beln and Wede partially rescued related proteins level except PPARγ compared with model group. Besides, the co‐treatment of Mifobate blunted the effects of Arha on cell viability and expression of GSDMD, TLR4, and caspase‐1. In conclusion, Arha inhibited UA transport as well as preventing inflammation and pyroptosis via activating PPARγ thereby blocking caspase‐1 activation of HUA in vitro.
Sex differences in the acoustic features of social play‐induced 50‐kHz ultrasonic vocalizations: A detailed spectrographic analysis in wild‐type Sprague–Dawley and Cacna1c haploinsufficient rats
Authors: Kisko Theresa M. , Schwarting Rainer K. W. , Wöhr Markus
Published: June 2020

Sexual dimorphisms are widespread in the animal kingdom. At the behavioral level, there is evidence for sex differences in social play behavior. In rats, males typically engage more in rough‐and‐tumble play than females. One prominent component of the rough‐and‐tumble play repertoire in rats is the emission of 50‐kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USV). Such 50‐kHz USV reflect the rewarding nature of play and serve as socioaffective signals. Here, we provide evidence for sexual dimorphisms within rough‐and‐tumble play‐induced 50‐kHz USV in juvenile rats. Specifically, females displayed reduced 50‐kHz USV emission during playful interactions. This reduction was associated with changes in 50‐kHz USV emission rates and subtype profiles during specific rough‐and‐tumble components, i.e., pinning, wrestling, and chasing, as well as differences in acoustic parameters. Interestingly, sex differences were modulated by Cacna1c, a gene strongly implicated in major neuropsychiatric disorders, often characterized by prominent sex biases, most notably autism. Specifically, Cacna1c haploinsufficiency affected the emission of 50‐kHz USV during rough‐and‐tumble play in female rats and we provide evidence supporting the notion that such effects of Cacna1c haploinsufficiency are driven by male‐typical features of 50‐kHz USV emission. This is in line with the hypermasculinized social play repertoire previously observed in juvenile Cacna1c haploinsufficient females.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with painful diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Alam Uazman , Petropoulos Ioannis N. , Ponirakis Georgios , Ferdousi Maryam , Asghar Omar , Jeziorska Maria , Marshall Andrew , Boulton Andrew J. M. , Efron Nathan , Malik Rayaz A.
Published: June 2020

Background

The aetiology of painful diabetic neuropathy is unclear. We have evaluated vitamin D levels in diabetic patients with and without painful neuropathy.

Methods

Forty‐three patients with type 1 diabetes and painless (DPN) (n = 20) or painful (PDN) (n = 23) neuropathy and 14 non‐diabetic healthy control subjects (C) underwent assessment of neurologic deficits, quantitative sensory testing (QST), electrophysiology, skin biopsy, corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) and measurement of serum 25(OH)D.

Results

There were no significant differences for age, BMI, HbA1c, lipids, neurological deficits, QST, electrophysiology, intra‐epidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD) and corneal nerve morphology between patients with DPN and PDN. Both positive (hyperalgesia and allodynia) and negative symptoms (paraesthesia and numbness) of diabetic neuropathy were greater in PDN compared with DPN (P= .009 andP= .02, respectively). Serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower in PDN (24.0 ± 14.1 ng/mL) compared with DPN (34.6 ± 15.0 ng/mL,P= .01) and controls (34.1 ± 8.6 ng/mL,P= .03). The odds ratio in favour of painful diabetic neuropathy was 9.8 [P= .003 (95% CI, 2.2–76.4)] for vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) and 4.4 [P= .03 (95% CI, 1.1‐19.8)] for vitamin D insufficiency (<30 ng/mL).

Conclusions

This study suggests that vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are associated with painful diabetic neuropathy.
Anabasine‐based measurement of cigarette consumption using wastewater analysis
Authors: Bade Richard , White Jason M. , Tscharke Benjamin J. , Ghetia Maulik , Abdelaziz Ahmed , Gerber Cobus
Published: June 2020

Community tobacco use can be monitored over time using wastewater‐based epidemiological approaches by estimating the mass loads of nicotine and its metabolites, cotinine, or hydroxycotinine, in wastewater. However, due to the use of nicotine in smoking cessation products, other sources of nicotine contribute to cotinine and hydroxycotinine loads. The use of nicotine replacement therapies could vary in space and time and mask the true rates of tobacco consumption. Therefore, this work evaluated the content of tobacco specific markers, anatabine and anabasine, in cigarettes, in urine of smokers, and in wastewater. The results indicated that the anabasine content in both licit and illicit cigarettes in Australia is less variable than anatabine and is therefore considered a better measure of tobacco consumption. A study determining the excretion of tobacco‐specific alkaloids of smoking and non‐smoking volunteers gave an average urinary mass load of anabasine of 4.38 μg/L/person and a daily mass load of 1.13 μg/day/person. Finally, this was compared with the mass loads of anabasine from wastewater‐based epidemiology data of 3 μg/day/person to estimate cigarette rates in a South Australian city: equivalent to 2.6 cigarettes/person/day. The rate of decline of cigarette use was greater when using anabasine as a measure of consumption compared with cotinine. This is the first study to estimate the rate of anabasine excretion, which can be used to estimate tobacco use independent of therapeutically prescribed nicotine.
GFP expression pattern in pituitary and gonads under the control of nuclear progesterone receptor promoter in transgenic zebrafish
Authors: Huang Jing , Zhang Ting Ting , Jiang Ke , Hong Wan Shu , Chen Shi Xi
Published: June 2020

Background

The nuclear progesterone receptor (Pgr) is a ligand‐dependent transcription factor primarily responsible for mediating progesterone actions relevant for reproduction across vertebrates. Information on the cellular localization of Pgr expression in the reproductive system is required for developing a comprehensive approach to elucidate the role of Pgr in reproduction.

Results

We generated transgenic zebrafish Tg(pgr:eGFP) that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) driven by promoter sequence of pgr gene. The tissue distribution pattern of egfp mRNA is consistent with the pgr mRNA expression in Tg(pgr:eGFP). In the pituitary, GFP signals are found in the proximal pars distalis. In order to better discern the cellular localization of GFP signals in gonads, Tg(pgr:eGFP) line was crossed with Tg(gsdf:nfsB‐mCherry) line, specifically expressing nitroreductase‐mCherry fusion protein in granulosa and Sertoli cells in ovary and testis, respectively. Imaging of testis tissue showed that GFP expression was confined to Leydig cells. In the ovary, GFP expression colocalized with the mCherry signal in granulosa cells. Intriguingly, we also identified some non‐granulosa cells close to where blood vessels branched, expressing stronger GFP signals than granulosa cells.

Conclusions

Analyzing Tg(pgr:eGFP) expression in zebrafish provided leads toward new routes to study the role of Pgr in reproduction.
Spliceosomopathies: Diseases and mechanisms
Authors: Griffin Casey , Saint‐Jeannet Jean‐Pierre
Published: June 2020

The spliceosome is a complex of RNA and proteins that function together to identify intron‐exon junctions in precursor messenger‐RNAs, splice out the introns, and join the flanking exons. Mutations in any one of the genes encoding the proteins that make up the spliceosome may result in diseases known as spliceosomopathies. While the spliceosome is active in all cell types, with the majority of the proteins presumably expressed ubiquitously, spliceosomopathies tend to be tissue‐specific as a result of germ line or somatic mutations, with phenotypes affecting primarily the retina in retinitis pigmentosa, hematopoietic lineages in myelodysplastic syndromes, or the craniofacial skeleton in mandibulofacial dysostosis. Here we describe the major spliceosomopathies, review the proposed mechanisms underlying retinitis pigmentosa and myelodysplastic syndromes, and discuss how this knowledge may inform our understanding of craniofacial spliceosomopathies.
Resting energy expenditure in acutely ill and stabilized patients with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
Authors: Kochavi Brigitte , Mendelowitsch Shiri , Enoch‐Levy Adi , Yaroslavsky Amit , Toledano Anat , Modan‐Moses Dalit , Stein Daniel
Published: June 2020

Objective

Determining resting energy expenditure (REE) may be important in the nutritional assessment of adolescents with eating disorders (EDs). Calculated equations assessing REE, developed according to data from healthy people, may under‐ or overestimate REE in EDs. We have sought to compare the REE measured in clinical settings to that calculated using equations in actively ill adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN), and following stabilization of weight and disordered eating.

Methods

Thirty‐five female adolescents with AN and 25 with BN were assessed at admission to inpatient treatment and at discharge. REE was measured using indirect calorimetry (DELTATRAC Metabolic Monitor). Expected REE was calculated using the Harris–Benedict equation.

Results

An overestimation of expected versus measured REE was found for both patients with AN and BN, both at admission and discharge. Second, the differences between expected and measured REE were significantly less robust in BN versus AN. Third, REE before renourishing was lower in inpatients with AN versus BN. Fourth, the REE of patients with AN (both measured and expected) increased from admission to discharge, to a greater extent than expected solely from the increase in weight. The difference between admission and discharge expected and measured REE was significant also in patients with BN.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that predicted and measured REE are different in both AN and BN, and that both expected and measured REE are not useful in the planning of renourishing programs in patients with AN.
Reproductives and eggs trigger worker vibration in a subterranean termite
Authors: Ruhland Fanny , Moulin Marion , Choppin Marina , Meunier Joël , Lucas Christophe
Published: June 2020

In insect societies, the presence of reproductives or eggs has been shown to shape several biological traits in the colony members. Social interactions are one of these traits that involve modification of the communication system of the entire colony. Many studies described the role of chemical compounds and dominance behaviors in the presence of reproductive but vibratory behaviors received very few investigations. Yet, vibratory behaviors are ideal candidates, particularly for subterranean species like termites, as they could be quickly transmitted through the substrate and could be very diversified (origin, modulation). Here, we investigated whether the presence of reproductives/eggs affects the vibratory behavior (body‐shaking) of workers in the subterranean termite Reticulitermes flavipes. Our results reveal that the presence of reproductives or eggs triggers an increase of workers' body‐shaking, independent of their colony of origin after 24 hr. We hypothesize that vibratory communication could be used to transfer information about the presence of reproductives and eggs to the entire colony, suggesting that vibratory behaviors could serve as an important yet neglected mediator of social regulation.
Application of eDNA as a tool for assessing fish population abundance
Authors: Spear Michael J. , Embke Holly S. , Krysan Patrick J. , Vander Zanden M. Jake
Published: June 2020

Estimating the abundance of organisms is fundamental to the study and management of ecological systems. However, accurately and precisely estimating organism abundance is challenging, especially in aquatic systems where organisms are hidden underwater. Estimating the abundance of fish is critical for the management of fisheries which relies on accurate assessment of population status to maximize yield without overharvesting populations. Monitoring population status is particularly challenging for inland fisheries in which populations are distributed among many individual waterbodies. Environmental DNA (eDNA) may offer a cost‐effective way to rapidly estimate populations across a large number of systems if eDNA quantity correlates with the abundance of its source organisms. Here, we test the ability of quantities of eDNA recovered from surface water to estimate the abundance of walleye (Sander vitreus), a culturally and economically important sportfish, in lakes in northern Wisconsin (USA). We demonstrate a significant, positive relationship between traditional estimates of adult walleye populations (both number of individuals and biomass) and eDNA concentration (R2 = .81; n = 22). Our results highlight the utility of eDNA as a population monitoring tool that can help guide and inform inland fisheries management.
Contribution of the Internal and External Oxygen to the Oxidation of Microencapsulated Fish Oil
Authors: Linke Annika , Linke Tobias , Kohlus Reinhard
Published: June 2020

Microencapsulation aims to protect polyunsaturated fatty acids against oxidation by embedding oil droplets in a solid matrix. In such a system the internal (dissolved and entrapped) and external (in the environment) oxygen can be differentiated. The study aims to quantify the impact of both oxygen sources on the oxidation of microencapsulated fish oil. The impact of the solubilized oxygen in bulk fish oil is investigated by saturating the oil with nitrogen, synthetic air, and pure oxygen. Even though more dissolved oxygen results in more oxidation products, the difference between the oxidation of the nitrogen and air saturated oil is significant but low. For encapsulated fish oil powders, the internal oxygen is modified by preparing oil‐in‐water emulsions under atmospheric and inert conditions. The feed is atomized and spray dried with either nitrogen or air. Powders are stored under vacuum and in vials and the hydroperoxides and anisidine value are determined in the total‐ and encapsulated oil. The internal oxygen has a minor impact, whereas the external oxygen is the main determinant for autoxidation. Apart from oxidizing the non‐encapsulated oil, the external O2 penetrates into the particle and reacts with the encapsulated oil.

Practical Applications: Comparing the contribution of the internal and external oxygen to the oxidative stability shows that the internal O2 plays a minor role and can be neglected. This means that the emulsion preparation as well as the spray drying process can be conducted under ambient conditions. An inert production is not extending the shelf life significantly as long as the external O2 determines oxidation. The focus should be on optimizing the diffusion barrier properties of the wall matrix to reduce the penetration of the external oxygen into the particle system. Alternatively, packaging solution reducing the external O2 will extend the shelf life of the microencapsulated oil.