bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ophthalmic Wearable Devices for Color Blindness Management
Authors: Salih Ahmed E. , Elsherif Mohamed , Ali Murad , Vahdati Nader , Yetisen Ali K. , Butt Haider
Published: May 2020

Color vision deficiency (CVD) or color blindness is an ocular disorder that hinders the patients from distinguishing shades of certain colors. Color blind patients are often not considered for critical occupations (e.g., military, police) and cannot differentiate colors in public places or media (i.e., watching TV). The most common form of color blindness is red‐green, which is a result of either a missing or defective red or green photoreceptor cone. Since no cure for this disorder exists, sufferers opt for methods to enhance their color perception. The products and methods that have been developed to aid CVD patients are discussed. These technologies include contemporary work on gene therapy, tinted glasses, lenses, optoelectronic glasses, and advanced features developed on smartphones and computers. Among these wearables, tinted glasses, developed by companies such as Enchroma, are the most widely used by CVD patients.
Transformable Pneumatic Balloon‐Type Soft Robot Using Attachable Shells
Authors: Nakajima Toshiki , Yamaguchi Takafumi , Wakabayashi Seiji , Arie Takayuki , Akita Seiji , Takei Kuniharu
Published: May 2020

Safe and convenient human‐interactive robots are of great interests to support human life. A pneumatic balloon‐type soft robot operated by air or water pressure has potential for soft and gentle interactions with humans. However, the device design often limits the actuation direction. If this motion can be readily tuned, one design can be used in different applications. This study proposes a transformable pneumatic balloon‐type soft robot using attachable shells. The actuating direction can be tuned by the shell structure over a pneumatic balloon‐based tube. The shells can be fabricated via a 3D printer using hard‐ or soft‐materials. After characterizing the bending force and angle of the soft actuator, three robot applications are demonstrated—walking, grabbing a ball, and an octopus‐like motion. Although the mechanical robustness, especially for soft shells, needs to be improved for practical applications, this concept has potential to realize innovative pneumatic balloon‐based robotics.
Breaking rice yield barrier with the ratooning method under changing climatic conditions: A paradigm shift in rice‐cropping systems in southwestern Japan
Authors: Nakano Hiroshi , Tanaka Ryo , Wada Hiroshi , Okami Midori , Nakagomi Koji , Hakata Makoto
Published: May 2020

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) ratooning has recently attracted attention since it possesses higher yield potential compared to conventional rice‐growing methods; however, it requires a longer growing season. Field experiments were conducted in southwestern Japan in 2017 and 2018 to determine the effect of harvest time (early and normal) and cutting height (high and low) of the first crop on grain yield of the first and second crops using a high‐yielding line under high N application and high air temperature conditions in rice ratooning. The highest total yield of the first and second crops was produced when the first crop was harvested at the normal time with the high cutting height in 2018. This yield reached 14.4 t ha−1, which is equivalent to threefold the average yield achieved by Japanese farmers. Plants harvested at the high cutting height produced higher grain yield of the second crop because of the larger spikelet number m−2 and better grain filling using abundant leaf area index (LAI) and nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) in the stubble. In southwestern Japan, the daily mean air temperatures during the early growth stage of the first crop and the late ripening stage of the second crop have been increasing over time. Our results suggest that increasing LAI and NSC in the stubble by harvesting at the normal time harvest with the high cutting height under high level N application conditions may provide an adaptive strategy to increase yield with a rice‐ratooning system as growing seasons extend due to global climate change.
Sinus pericranii, skull defects, and structural brain anomalies inTRAF7‐related disorder
Authors: Accogli Andrea , Scala Marcello , Pavanello Marco , Severino Mariasavina , Gandolfo Carlo , De Marco Patrizia , Musacchia Francesco , Torella Annalaura , Pinelli Michele , Nigro Vincenzo , Capra Valeria
Published: May 2020

Background

Several somatic mutations inTRAF7have been reported in cancers, whereas a few germline heterozygous mutations have been recently linked to a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by craniofacial dysmorphisms, congenital heart defects, and digital anomalies.

Cases

We report two subjects harboring de novo heterozygous missense variants inTRAF7, namely the recurrent 1964G>A(p.Arg655Gln) and thenovelmissense c.1204C>G(p.Leu402Val) variants. In addition to the typical hallmarks of the TRAF7‐related disorder, both subjects presented with a recognizable “pear‐shaped” skull due to multiple craniosynostosis, sinus pericranii, skull base/cranio‐cervical junction anomalies, dysgyria, and inferior cerebellar vermis hypoplasia.

Conclusions

Hence, we expand the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of this neurodevelopmental disorder, discussing possible implications for clinical management of subjects with germlineTRAF7mutations.
Capillary electrophoresis and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography methods in clinical monitoring of creatinine in human urine: A comparative study
Authors: Piestansky Juraj , Galba Jaroslav , Kovacech Branislav , Parrak Vojtech , Kovac Andrej , Mikuš Peter
Published: May 2020

Creatinine is an important diagnostic marker and is also used as a standardization tool for the quantitative evaluation of exogenous/endogenous substances in urine. This study aimed at evaluating and comparing three analytical approaches, based on hyphenations of different separation [two‐dimensional capillary isotachophoresis (CITP–CITP), capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE), ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC)] and detection [conductivity (CD), ultraviolet (UV), tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)] techniques, for their ability to provide reliable clinical data along with their suitability for the routine clinical use (cost, simplicity, sample throughput). The developed UHPLC–MS/MS, CITP–CITP–CD, and CZE–UV methods were characterized by favorable performance parameters, such as linearity (r ˃ 0.99), precision (relative standard deviation, 0.22–2.97% for the creatinine position in analytical profiles), and recovery (87.1–115.1%). Clinical data, obtained from the analysis of 24 human urine samples by a reference enzymatic method, were comparable with those obtained by the tested methods (Passing–Bablok regression and Bland–Altman analysis), approving their usefulness for the routine clinical use. In this context, the UHPLC–MS/MS method provides benefits of enhanced orthogonality/accuracy and high sample throughput (threefold shorter total analysis times than the CE methods), whereas advantages of the CE methods for routine labs are simplicity and low cost of both the instrumentation and measurements.
The association of COMT genotype with buproprion treatment response in the treatment of major depressive disorder
Authors: Fawver Jay , Flanagan Mindy , Smith Thomas , Drouin Michelle , Mirro Michael
Published: May 2020

Background

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenetics are being explored in pharmacological treatment response for major depressive disorder (MDD). Interactions between genotype and treatment response may be dose dependent. In this study, we examined whether MDD patients with Met/Met, Met/Val, and Val/Val COMT genotypes differed in their response to bupropion in terms of depression scores.

Methods

This study utilized a convenience sample of 241 adult outpatients (≥18 years) who met DSM‐5 criteria for MDD and had visits at a Midwest psychopharmacology clinic between February 2016 and January 2017. Exclusion criteria included various comorbid medical, neurological, and psychiatric conditions and current use of benzodiazepines or narcotics. Participants completed genetic testing and the 9 question patient‐rated Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) at each clinic visit (M = 3.8 visits, SD = 1.5) and were prescribed bupropion or another antidepressant drug. All participants were adherent to pharmacotherapy treatment recommendations for >2 months following genetic testing.

Results

Participants were mostly Caucasian (85.9%) outpatients (154 female and 87 male) who were 44.5 years old, on average (SD = 17.9). For Val carriers, high bupropion doses resulted in significantly lower PHQ‐9 scores than no bupropion (t(868) = 5.04, p < .001) or low dose bupropion (t(868) = 3.29, p = .001). Val carriers differed significantly from Met/Met patients in response to high dose bupropion (t(868) = −2.03, p = .04), but not to low dose bupropion.

Conclusion

High‐dose bupropion is beneficial for MDD patients with Met/Val or Val/Val COMT genotypes, but not for patients with Met/Met genotype. Prospective studies are necessary to replicate this pharmacodynamic relationship between bupropion and COMT genotypes and explore economic and clinical outcomes.
BRD2 induces drug resistance through activation of the RasGRP1/Ras/ERK signaling pathway in adult T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma
Authors: Tian Xiao‐Peng , Cai Jun , Ma Shu‐Yun , Fang Yu , Huang Hui‐Qiang , Lin Tong‐Yu , Rao Hui‐Lan , Li Mei , Xia Zhong‐Jun , Kang Tie‐Bang , Xie Dan , Cai Qing‐Qing
Published: May 2020

Background

Adult patients with T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T‐LBL) are treated with high‐intensity chemotherapy regimens, but the response rate is still unsatisfactory because of frequent drug resistance. We aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of drug resistance in adults with T‐LBL.

Methods

Gene expression microarray was used to identify differential mRNA expression profiles between chemotherapy‐resistant and chemotherapy‐sensitive adult T‐LBL tissues. Real‐time PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed to detect the expression of bromodomain‐containing protein 2 (BRD2) and c‐Myc in fresh‐frozen T‐LBL tissues from 85 adult patients. The Ras pull‐down assay was performed to monitor Ras activation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to analyze the binding of E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1)/BRD2 to the RAS guanyl releasing protein 1 (RasGRP1) promoter region. The drug resistance effect and mechanism of BRD2 were determined by both in vivo and in vitro studies.

Results

A total of 86 chemotherapy resistance‐related genes in adult T‐LBL were identified by gene expression microarray. Among them, BRD2 was upregulated in chemotherapy‐resistant adult T‐LBL tissues and associated with worse progression‐free survival and overall survival of 85 adult T‐LBL patients. Furthermore, BRD2 suppressed doxorubicin (Dox)‐induced cell apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. The activation of RasGRP1/Ras/ERK signaling might contribute to the Dox resistance effect of BRD2. Besides, OTX015, a bromodomain and extra‐terminal (BET) inhibitor, reversed the Dox resistance effect of BRD2. Patient‐derived tumor xenograft demonstrated that the sequential use of OTX015 after Dox showed superior therapeutic effects.

Conclusions

Our data showed that BRD2 promotes drug resistance in adult T‐LBL through the RasGRP1/Ras/ERK signaling pathway. Targeting BRD2 may be a novel strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy and prolong survival of adults with T‐LBL.
1,3,2‐Diazaphospholenes Catalyze the Conjugate Reduction of Substituted Acrylic Acids
Authors: Reed John H. , Cramer Nicolai
Published: May 2020

The potent nucleophilicity and remarkably low basicity of 1,3,2‐diazaphospholenes (DAPs) is exploited in a catalytic, metal‐free 1,4‐reduction of free α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acids. Notably, the reduction occurs without a prior deprotonation of the carboxylic acid moiety and hence does not consume an additional hydride equivalent. This highlights the excellent nucleophilic character and low basicity of DAP‐hydrides. Functional groups such as Cbz group or alkyl halides which can be problematic with classical transition‐metal catalysts are well tolerated in the DAP‐catalyzed process. Moreover, the transformation is characterized by a low catalyst loading, mild reaction conditions at ambient temperature as well as fast reaction times and high yields. The proof‐of‐principle for a catalytic enantioselective version is described.
Urea Electrooxidation: Current Development and Understanding of Ni‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Hu Xinrang , Zhu Jiaye , Li Jiangfeng , Wu Qingsheng
Published: May 2020

Nowadays, urea‐rich wastewater has become a big threat to human health. Electrocatalytic techniques can convert urea from urea‐rich wastewater to hydrogen for ecological protection and clean energy generation. But, the urea oxidation reaction suffers sluggish kinetics, which requires effective catalysts to promote the oxidation process. Recently, Ni‐based materials have been widely researched as catalysts in the field of urea electrooxidation, owing to their low cost, low overpotential, high current density and good catalytic stability. However, urea‐based fuel cells cannot be compared with other types of cryogenic fuel cells, owing to the high action temperature, sluggish anode reaction for urea electrooxidation and limited current density. In this Review, the morphological structure and elemental content ratio of nickel‐based catalysts for urea electrooxidation and their application in urea‐based fuel cells are summarized. Based on a literature review, the 3D structure of complex nickel‐based composites with high conductivity and abundant active sites will be part of developing trends in the future nickel‐based catalysts.
Two‐Dimensional Metal‐Containing Nanomaterials for Battery Anode Applications
Authors: Chen Yuning , Li Lidong , Guo Lin
Published: May 2020

Secondary batteries, as portable energy storage and supply devices, are becoming an attractive research field that is drawing a lot of attention. Selection of electrode materials plays a crucial role in the battery performances. However, most bulk materials have a lot of limitations when used as battery anodes for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Recently, two‐dimensional nanomaterials (2D materials) have been fabricated to address these problems. The high specific surface area of 2D materials can facilitate the electrochemical process during charge–discharge cycles. Therefore, anode materials with expected performances can be designed and be synthesized. In this Review, we summarize the recent development of metal‐containing 2D nanomaterials for battery anode applications. The relation between 2D structure and electrochemical performance of materials have been presented. Additionally, existing problems and possible solutions have also been discussed.
Propeller‐Shaped Semi‐fused Porphyrin Trimers: Molecular‐Symmetry‐Dependent Chiroptical Response
Authors: Kato Kenichi , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: May 2020

Triple helicene‐like semi‐fused trimeric NiIIporphyrins were constructed by alkyne trimerization of an ethynyl‐substituted porphyrin and subsequent three‐fold Grignard addition to the formyl groups and acid‐catalyzed intramolecular cyclization. The presence of stereogenic sp3carbons in the central bridge leads to small inter‐porphyrin conjugative interactions as was revealed by electrochemical and optical properties. Two diastereomers with stable chiral conformations were optically resolved, and the separated enantiomers displayed considerably intense circular dichroism. Importantly, the chiroptical response ofC3‐symmetric helical isomer (|Δϵ|=830 m−1 cm−1) is 1.8 times amplified from that ofC1‐symmetric one (|Δϵ|=470 m−1 cm−1). The observed amplification has been interpreted in terms of different spatial arrangements of the three porphyrins.
The E2 mechanism: β‐eliminations at haloalkanes – New model experiments for concept learning in teacher training
Authors: Schmitt Catharina , Kissel Hendrik , Schween Michael
Published: May 2020

Reaktionsmechanismen zu verstehen oder vorherzusagen gehört zu den schwierigsten Aufgaben von Lernenden in der Organischen Chemie. Oft beziehen sie sich auf auswendig gelernte Regeln und argumentieren ausgehend von den Produkten oder äußerlichen Merkmalen der Reaktanden. Um ein flexibel abrufbares Wissen zu erzeugen, das sich auch auf andere Mechanismen übertragen oder in neuen Kontexten anwenden lässt, haben wir Experimente zu einem grundlegenden Mechanismus, der E2‐Eliminierung, entwickelt. Sie sind als Contrasting Cases konzipiert, indem sie sich in Konkurrenzexperimenten auf die Untersuchung der Molekularität sowie des Einflusses der Basenstärke auf den Reaktionsverlauf bei E2‐Reaktionen konzentrieren. Dazu wird 2‐Brom‐2‐methylpropan in zwei Experimentgruppen mit unterschiedlichen Konzentrationen der Base (Molekularität) und mit verschiedenen Basen (Basenstärke) umgesetzt und der Verlauf der Reaktion mit einer einfachen Analytik anhand von Leitwertmessungen und qualitativen Doppelbindungsnachweisen verfolgt.
Association between severity of obstructive sleep apnea and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Juan , Xu Haobo , Guo Chao , Duan Xin , Hu Fenghuan , Yang Weixian , Cui Jingang , Song Lei , Chun Yushi , Yuan Jiansong , Qiao Shubin
Published: May 2020

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). Inflammatory responses are increased in patients with OSA, meanwhile, inflammation is also associated with adverse outcomes in HOCM.

Hypothesis

To investigate the association between severity of OSA and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) in patients with HOCM.

Methods

Three hundred and ninteen patients with HOCM who underwent sleep evaluations at Fuwai Hospital were retrospectively included between February 2010 and December 2018. Data from baseline clinical characteristics and polysomnography studies were collected.

Results

OSA was present in 168 (52.7%). Patients with OSA were older, more likely to be male, had a higher body mass index and more clinical comorbidities. Patients with OSA had enlarged left ventricular diameter and similar left ventricular outflow tract obstruction compared with those without. In multivariate logistic analysis, apnea‐hypopnea index (OR, 1.024; 95% CI, 1.005‐1.044; P = .014), oxygen desaturation index (OR, 1.025; 95% CI, 1.004‐1.046; P = .018) and lowest oxygen saturation (OR, 0.951; 95% CI, 0.915‐0.989; P = .011) were independently associated with high risk hs‐CRP (>3 mg/L) after adjusting for confounders. In addition, decreasing lowest oxygen saturation (β = −.159, P = .004) was also independently correlated with increasing hs‐CRP concentrations in multivariate linear analysis after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusions

Severity of OSA was independently associated with elevated hs‐CRP levels in patients with HOCM. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of treating OSA on hs‐CRP as well as clinical outcomes in these patients.
α‐Triazolylboronic Acids: A Promising Scaffold for Effective Inhibitors of KPCs
Authors: Introvigne Maria Luisa , Taracila Magdalena A. , Prati Fabio , Caselli Emilia , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: May 2020

Boronic acids are known reversible covalent inhibitors of serine β‐lactamases. The selectivity and high potency of specific boronates bearing an amide side chain that mimics the β‐lactam's amide side chain have been advanced in several studies. Herein, we describe a new class of boronic acids in which the amide group is replaced by a bioisostere triazole. The boronic acids were obtained in a two‐step synthesis that relies on the solid and versatile copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) followed by boronate deprotection. All of the compounds show very good inhibition of the Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase KPC‐2, with Ki values ranging from 1 nM to 1 μM, and most of them are able to restore cefepime activity against K. pneumoniae harboring blaKPC‐2. In particular, compound 1 e, bearing a sulfonamide substituted by a thiophene ring, proved to be an excellent KPC‐2 inhibitor (Ki=30 nM); it restored cefepime susceptibility in KPC‐Kpn cells (MIC=0.5 μg/mL) with values similar to that of vaborbactam (Ki=20 nM, MIC in KPC‐Kpn 0.5 μg/mL). Our findings suggest that α‐triazolylboronates might represent an effective scaffold for the treatment of KPC‐mediated infections.
Olaparib for BRCA mutant pancreas cancer: Should the POLO trial change clinical practice?
Authors: Nishikawa Go , Booth Christopher , Prasad Vinay
Published: May 2020

Because of the lack of a survival benefit, the suboptimal control arm design, and the overall health care costs, the authors do not believe that olaparib represents a major advance for patients with pancreatic cancer. The POLO trial illustrates that as a community, even in settings where there is a huge need, physicians must be rigorous in their methodology and mindful that they not lower the bar for new therapies.
Validation of the 7‐item Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐General (FACT‐G7) as a short measure of quality of life in patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Mah Kenneth , Swami Nadia , Le Lisa W. , Chow Ronald , Hannon Breffni L. , Rodin Gary , Zimmermann Camilla
Published: May 2020

Background

Assessing quality of life is essential for individuals with advanced cancer, but lengthy assessments can be burdensome. The authors investigated the psychometric characteristics of the FACT‐G7, a 7‐item quality‐of‐life measure derived from the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐General (FACT‐G) scale, in advanced cancer.

Methods

Data were obtained from outpatients with advanced cancer who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of early palliative care. At baseline, 228 intervention participants and 233 control participants (N = 461) completed the FACT‐G and measures of symptom severity, quality of life near the end of life, problematic medical communication, and satisfaction with care. Follow‐up measures were administered monthly for 4 months.

Results

The FACT‐G7 showed good internal consistency (Cronbach α = .72‐.80), and its single‐factor structure was supported. It correlated strongly with the FACT‐G total, physical, and functional indices and with symptom severity (absolute r = 0.73‐0.92); more moderately with the FACT‐G emotional index and with symptom impact and preparation for the end of life (r = .40‐.71); and least with the FACT‐G social/family index and with relationship with health care provider, life completion, problematic medical communication, and care satisfaction measures (absolute r = .26‐.44). Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status groups differed on FACT‐G7 scores, as expected (all P < .001). Improvements in FACT‐G7 scores in the intervention group compared with the control group at 3‐month (P = .049) and 4‐month (P = .034) follow‐up supported responsiveness to change and somewhat greater sensitivity than the FACT‐G scores.

Conclusions

The FACT‐G7 is a valid, brief measure particularly of the physical and functional facets of quality of life. It may enable rapid quality‐of‐life assessments in patients with advanced cancer.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Exposure‐Response Analysis of nab‐Paclitaxel in Pediatric Patients With Recurrent or Refractory Solid Tumors
Authors: Li Yan , Kassir Nastya , Chen Nianhang , Wang Xiaomin , Palmisano Maria , Zhou Simon
Published: May 2020

Pediatric malignancies are most commonly of primary central nervous system or hematopoietic origin. The main reason for cancer death in pediatrics is refractory and relapsed disease, and improved therapeutic options are needed in the pediatric population. Nanoparticle albumin‐bound (nab)‐paclitaxel (Abraxane) is a human albumin‐stabilized formulation of paclitaxel and was designed to improve the chemotherapeutic effects of paclitaxel and to reduce toxicities. Although nab‐paclitaxel pharmacokinetics (PK) has been extensively studied in adults, no information is available on its PK in children. ABI‐007‐PST‐001 was the first nab‐paclitaxel clinical trial conducted in pediatrics, and the current analysis is the first study of nab‐paclitaxel PK in pediatrics. Our analyses suggested that ontogeny and maturation play a role in nab‐paclitaxel PK disposition, as demonstrated by the finding that both blood clearance and volume of distribution increased from younger to older pediatric age groups and from pediatrics to adults. A 3‐compartment population PK (PPK) model with saturable elimination was developed to describe the paclitaxel whole blood concentrations in pediatrics. The PPK model was customized by estimating the allometric function on PK parameters to take into account the ontogeny/maturation of patients. PPK estimates are consistent with the fast and deep distribution of paclitaxel that was previously observed in adults. Finally, the exposure‐safety analysis showed an increased probability of drug‐related adverse events (>grade 2) in cycle 1 and the first cycle of neutropenia (>grade 2) associated with higher doses. However, there is no statistically significant association between exposures (measured by area under the concentration‐time curve) and the probabilities of either safety event.
Performance analysis of QoS in IoT based cognitive radio Ad Hoc network
Authors: Afzal Humaira , Rafiq Mufti Muhammad , Raza Aamir , Hassan Abbas
Published: May 2020

Since the advent of Internet of Things (IoT), there is a dramatic increase in the number of devices being connected to networks. This increase causes spectrum shortage for devices competing to share the limited spectrum. Wireless IoT devices mostly utilize unlicensed radio spectrum. Soon, the bands in this spectrum will become overcrowded causing collisions among subscribers that will result in scarcity of spectrum. Therefore, in order to ease the smooth running and frequent proliferation in IoT objects, the efficient use of radio spectrum is necessary. One of the solutions to this problem is cognitive radio (CR) that has gained the attention among researchers. The network, formed by CRs, allows an unlicensed user to occupy and use the spectrum of a licensed user/primary user (PU) when the spectrum is found to be free. In this work, these two technologies are combined to get the advantages of both in ad hoc manner while relating this concept with trunking theory. The distances of CRs from nearby PUs are calculated using radio frequency identifications (RFIDs), and then based on these distances, some quality‐of‐service (QoS) parameters of CR network are analyzed. The main objective of this study is to go through the performance analysis of CR network integrated with IoT in the non‐queued system. Numerical results show that this integration is beneficial for the survival of future wireless technologies.
Biological sensitivity to context in Pakistani preschoolers: Hair cortisol and family wealth are interactively associated with girls’ cognitive skills
Authors: Armstrong‐Carter Emma , Finch Jenna E. , Siyal Saima , Yousafzai Aisha K. , Obradović Jelena
Published: May 2020

Many young children in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) face heightened risk for experiencing environmental adversity, which is linked with poorer developmental outcomes. Children's stress physiology can shed light on why children are differentially susceptible to adversity. However, no known studies have examined whether links between adversity and children's development are moderated by children's stress physiology in LMICs. The present study revealed significant interactive effects of hair cortisol concentrations, an index of chronic physiological stress regulation, and family wealth on preschoolers’ cognitive skills in rural Pakistan. In a sample of 535 4‐year‐old children (n = 342 girls), we found significant associations between family wealth and direct assessments of verbal intelligence, pre‐academic skills, and executive functions only in girls with lower hair cortisol concentrations. Specifically, girls with lower cortisol concentrations displayed greater cognitive skills if they came from relatively wealthier families, but lower cognitive skills if they came from very poor families. There were no significant associations among boys. Results provide evidence of biological sensitivity to context among young girls in a LMIC, perhaps reflecting, in part, sex differences in daily experiences of environmental adversity.
Combining stable isotopes, morphological, and molecular analyses to reconstruct the diet of free‐ranging consumers
Authors: Bonin Michaël , Dussault Christian , Taillon Joëlle , Lecomte Nicolas , Côté Steeve D.
Published: May 2020

Accurate estimates of animal diet composition are essential to untangle complex interactions in food webs. Biomarkers and molecular tools are increasingly used to estimate diet, sometimes alongside traditional dietary tracing methods. Yet only a few empirical studies have compared the outcomes and potential gains of using a combination of these methods, especially using free‐ranging animals with distinct foraging preferences.

We used stable isotopes, morphological, and molecular analyses to investigate the diet of free‐ranging consumers with two distinct diet types, that is, carnivore and omnivore. By combining the three analytical methods to assess the diet of consumers during the same period, we aimed to identify the limits of each method and to assess the potential benefits of their combined use to derive diet estimates.

Our results showed that the different methods led to a consistent diet description for carnivores, which have a relatively simple diet mixture, but their outcomes somewhat differed for omnivore, which have a more complex diet. Still, the combined use of morphological and molecular analyses enhanced the diversity of food sources detected compared to the use of a single method independently of diet types. Precision of diet estimates derived from stable isotope analyses was improved by the addition of priors obtained from morphological and molecular diet analyses of the same population.

Although we used free‐ranging animals without a known diet, our empirical testing of three of the most widely used methods of diet determination highlights the limits of relying over a single approach, especially in systems with few or no a priori information about the foraging habits of consumers. The choice of an appropriate approach of diet description should be a key step when planning dietary studies of free‐ranging populations. We recommend using more than one dietary determination methods especially for species with complex diet mixtures.
Fetal‐derived macrophages persist and sequentially maturate in ovaries after birth in mice
Authors: Jokela Heli , Lokka Emmi , Kiviranta Miikka , Tyystjärvi Sofia , Gerke Heidi , Elima Kati , Salmi Marko , Rantakari Pia
Published: May 2020

Macrophages, which are highly diverse in different tissues, play a complex and vital role in tissue development, homeostasis, and inflammation. The origin and heterogeneity of tissue‐resident monocytes and macrophages in ovaries remains unknown. Here we identify three tissue‐resident monocyte populations and five macrophage populations in the adult ovaries using high‐dimensional single cell mass cytometry. Ontogenic analyses using cell fate mapping models and cell depletion experiments revealed the infiltration of ovaries by both yolk sac and fetal liver‐derived macrophages already during the embryonic development. Moreover, we found that both embryonic and bone marrow‐derived macrophages contribute to the distinct ovarian macrophage subpopulations in the adults. These assays also showed that fetal‐derived MHC II‐negative macrophages differentiate postnatally in the maturing ovary to MHC II‐positive cells. Our analyses further unraveled that the developmentally distinct macrophage types share overlapping distribution and scavenging function in the ovaries under homeostatic conditions. In conclusion, we report here the first comprehensive analyses of ovarian monocytes and macrophages. In addition, we show that the mechanisms controlling monocyte immigration, the phenotype of different pools of interstitial macrophages, and the interconversion capacity of fetal‐derived macrophages in ovaries are remarkably different from those seen in other tissue niches.
Cyclopalladated Compounds with Polyhalogenated Benzylphosphanes for the Mizoroki‐Heck Reaction
Authors: López‐Mosquera Cristina , Grabulosa Arnald , Rocamora Mercè , Font‐Bardia Mercè , Muller Guillermo
Published: May 2020

Nine partially halogenated benzylphosphanes ArXCH2PR2 (ArX = 3,6‐dichlorophenyl, 3,6‐difluorophenyl and 3,4,5‐trifluorophenyl; R = Ph, Cy, iPr) have been prepared and reacted with palladium acetate to obtain the cyclometallated dimers [Pd(µ‐OAc)(κ2‐C,P‐ArXCH2PR2)]2. The acetate bridge has been exchanged by bromide using lithium bromide and the obtained dimers have been thoroughly characterised. The dimers with the non‐halogenated phosphanes PhCH2PR2 (R = Ph, iPr) have also been prepared. Treatment with norbornadiene in the presence of silver tetrafluoroborate has furnished the cationic mononuclear complexes [Pd(κ2‐C,P‐ArXCH2PR2)(nbd)]BF4 as stable solids. These complexes and some of the bromide dimers have been used as catalytic precursors in the Mizoroki‐Heck reaction between bromobenzene and butyl acrylate. The complexes efficiently catalyse this transformation and important differences of activity are found depending on the ligand. In general, fluorinated phosphanes give more active systems than chlorinated analogues.
Metal‐Rich Chalcogenides as Sustainable Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Evolution and Reduction: State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Amin Hatem M. A. , Apfel Ulf‐Peter
Published: May 2020

The rational design of high‐performance and cost‐effective electrocatalysts is a key for the development of sustainable energy systems such as electrolyzers, fuel cells and metal‐air batteries. Although water splitting and fuel cells are commercially mature technologies, they are still limited on large scale primarily due to the abundancy of the currently utilized expensive materials as well as the sluggish kinetics of the underlaying reactions, oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and thus the required large observed overpotentials. Therefore, an efficient inexpensive catalyst is necessary. In the last decade, metal chalcogenides have been attractive materials in electrocatalysis of OER and ORR. Herein, we provide an overview on the recent advances on particularly metal‐rich chalcogenides such as heazlewoodite‐ and pentlandite‐types including their electrochemical activities and OER mechanisms. Likewise, examples of state‐of‐the‐art metal chalcogenides revealing bifunctional activity for both OER and ORR are also presented. Diverse strategies to improve the catalytic performance are discussed and current challenges and future perspectives towards further development in this field are addressed.
Flavin/I2‐Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidative C–H Sulfenylation of Aryl‐Fused Cyclic Amines
Authors: Jiang Xinpeng , Zhao Zongchen , Shen Zhifeng , Chen Keda , Fang Liyun , Yu Chuanming
Published: May 2020

We report an aerobic oxidative C–H sulfenylation of aryl‐fused cyclic amines with various thiols catalyzed by flavin/I2 for the first time. While flavin I catalyzed the C–H sulfenylation of indolines to afford 3‐sulfenylindoles, flavin II enabled transformations resulted in substitution at the position para to the N atom on the aryl ring to obtain 6‐sulfenylquinolines. The advantages of this metal‐free oxidative C–S coupling approach utilizing ambient oxygen as the terminal oxidant were that it was conducted under mild conditions with good atom‐efficiency and excellent functional compatibility.
Chromatin remodelers in oligodendroglia
Authors: Parras Carlos , Marie Corentine , Zhao Chuntao , Lu Qing Richard
Published: May 2020

Oligodendrocytes, the myelinating cells in the vertebrate central nervous system, produce myelin sheaths to enable saltatory propagation of action potentials. The process of oligodendrocyte myelination entails a stepwise progression from precursor specification to differentiation, which is coordinated by a series of transcriptional and chromatin remodeling events. ATP‐dependent chromatin remodeling enzymes, which utilize ATP as an energy source to control chromatin dynamics and regulate the accessibility of chromatin to transcriptional regulators, are critical for oligodendrocyte lineage development and regeneration. In this review, we focus on the latest insights into the spatial and temporal specificity of chromatin remodelers during oligodendrocyte development, myelinogenesis, and regeneration. We will also bring together various plausible mechanisms by which lineage specific transcriptional regulators coordinate with chromatin remodeling factors for programming genomic landscapes to specifically modulate these different processes during developmental myelination and remyelination upon injury.
Prediction of regional‐scale groundwater recharge and nitrate storage in the vadose zone: A comparison between a global model and a regional model
Authors: Turkeltaub Tuvia , Ascott Matthew. J. , Gooddy Daren C. , Jia Xiaoxu , Shao Ming‐An , Binley Andrew
Published: May 2020

Extensive nitrogen loads at the soil surface exceed plant uptake and soil biochemical capacity, and therefore lead to nitrogen accumulation in the deep vadose zone. Studies have shown that stored nitrogen in the vadose zone can eventually reach the water table and affect the quality of groundwater resources. Recently, global scale models have been implemented to quantify nitrate storage and nitrate travel time in the vadose zone. These global models are simplistic and relatively easy to implement and therefore facilitate analysis of the considered transport processes at a regional scale with no further requirements. However, the suitability of applying these models at a regional scale has not been tested. Here, we evaluate, for the first time, the performance and utility of global scale models at the regional scale. Applied to the Loess Plateau of China, we compare estimates of groundwater recharge and nitrate storage derived from global scale models with results from a regional scale approach utilizing the Richards and advection‐dispersion equations. The estimated nitrate storage was compared to nitrate observations collected in the deep vadose zone (>50 m) at five sites across the Loess Plateau. Although both models predict similar spatial patterns of nitrate storage, the recharge fluxes were three times smaller and the nitrate storage was two times higher compared with the regional model. The results suggest that global scale models are a potentially useful screening tool, but require refinement for local scale applications.
Examining the use of electronic money and technology by the diaspora in international remittance system: A case of Somali remittances from Canada
Authors: Elmi Mohamed A. , Ngwenyama Ojelanki
Published: May 2020

The diaspora, particularly through ICT‐enabled remittances, are an important lifeline to many in the developing world. This study aims to better understand the usefulness of ICTs in the role played by the remittance sending diasporans in developing countries' economic and social system. Through a mixed‐method approach, we explore the institution behind the Somali Hawala system and how it is enabled by technology. Guided by the question: What is the role of electronic money, technology, and the diaspora in the international remittance system? Using Somalia and the Somali diaspora, we create an inventory of the Hawala businesses based in the Canada gathered from secondary sources and online business listings. Next, surveys of 143 Somalis, who have remitted internationally in 2017, were conducted. We observed that social ties are strong motivators as to why individuals in Canada send money to people in Somalia. People who communicate less frequently were more likely to send less than $500. However, those who frequently communicate with their family members were more likely to send more than $500. Drawing on Social Network Theory and Altruism theory, we establish the role of ICTs in the Somali money transfer sector, confirming the crucial role served by ICTs in remittances.
Physical and biological properties of blend‐electrospun polycaprolactone/chitosan‐based wound dressings loaded with N‐decyl‐N, N‐dimethyl‐1‐decanaminium chloride: An in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Zafari Mahdi , Mansouri Milad , Omidghaemi Shadi , Yazdani Amid , Pourmotabed Samiramis , Hasanpour Dehkordi Ali , Nosrati Hamed , Validi Majid , Sharifi Esmaeel
Published: May 2020

Dual‐pump electrospinning of antibacterial N‐decyl‐N, N‐dimethyl‐1‐decanaminium‐chloride (DDAC)‐loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers, and chitosan (CS)/polyethylene‐oxide (PEO)‐based wound dressings with hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties to eliminate and absorb pathogenic bacteria from wound surface besides antibacterial action and to support wound healing and accelerate its process. Physicochemical properties of the prepared nanofibrous mat as well as antibacterial, cytotoxicity, and cell compatibility were studied. The full‐thickness excisional wound healing properties up to 3 weeks using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson‐trichrome staining were investigated. Addition of DDAC to CS/PEO‐PCL mats decreased the diameter of the nanofibers, which is a crucial property for wound healing as large surface area per volume ratio of nanofibers, in addition to proper cell adhesion, increases loading of DDAC in mats and leads to increased cell viability and eliminating Gram‐positive bacteria at in vitro studies. In vivo studies showed DDAC‐loaded CS/PEO‐PCL mats increased epithelialization and angiogenesis and decreased the inflammation according to histological results. We demonstrated that hydrophobic PCL/DDAC mats, besides antibacterial properties of DDAC, absorbed and eliminated the hydrophobic pathological microorganisms, whereas the hydrophilic nanofibers consisted of CS/PEO, increased the cell adhesion and proliferation due to positive charge of CS. Finally, we were able to increase the wound healing quality by using multifunctional wound dressing. CS/PEO‐PCL containing 8 wt % of DDAC nanofibrous mats is promising as a wound dressing for wound management due to the favorable interactions between the pathogenic bacteria and PCL/CS‐based wound dressing.
Treatment with Zoledronate Subsequent to Denosumab in Osteoporosis: a Randomized Trial
Authors: Sølling Anne Sophie , Harsløf Torben , Langdahl Bente
Published: May 2020

Discontinuing denosumab is associated with bone loss and possibly increased fracture risk. We investigated if treatment with zoledronate (ZOL) could prevent bone loss and if the timing of the ZOL infusion influenced the outcome. We report on a 2-year randomized, open label, interventional study including 61 patients with osteopenia, discontinuing denosumab after 4.6 ± 1.6 years. We administrated ZOL 6 months (6M group, n = 20) or 9 months (9M group, n = 20) after the last denosumab injection or when bone turnover had increased (OBS group, n = 21). We monitored the patients with DXA and bone turnover markers. Our primary endpoints were change in lumbar spine BMD (LSBMD) 6 months after ZOL and the proportion of patients who failed to maintain BMD. The study is ongoing (clinicaltrials.gov; NCT03087851). We included 61 participants and 59 patients completed follow-up 12 months after ZOL. Six months after ZOL, LSBMD had decreased significantly by (mean ± SE) 2.1% ± 0.9%, 4.3% ± 1.1%, and 3.0% ± 1.1% in the 6M, 9M, and OBS groups, respectively, and by 4.8% ± 0.7%, 4.1% ± 1.1%, and 4.7% ± 1.2% 12 months after ZOL in the 6M, 9M, and OBS groups, respectively (p < .02, no between-group differences). BMD loss above the least significant change was seen in all groups; at the spine: 6M, n = 6 (30%); 9M, n = 9 (45%); and OBS, n = 9 (47%); and at the total hip: 6M, n = 1 (5%); 9M, n = 5 (25%); and OBS, n = 2 (11%). In the 6M group p-crosslinked C-terminal telopeptide (p-CTX) decreased initially, but increased rapidly thereafter, and 6 months after ZOL, p-CTX was 0.60 ± 0.08 g/L. p-CTX increased rapidly in the 9M and OBS groups, was suppressed by ZOL but increased again thereafter; p-CTX was 0.47 ± 0.05 μg/L and 0.47 ± 0.05 μg/L in the 9M and OBS groups 6 months after ZOL, respectively. Incident vertebral fractures were seen in two women in the 9M group. Treatment with ZOL irrespective of the timing did not fully prevent loss of BMD in patients discontinuing denosumab. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Effect of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) extract on atorvastatin‐induced toxicity in C3A liver cells
Authors: Millar Danielle A. , Bowles Sandra , Windvogel Shantal Lynn , Louw Johan , Muller Christo J. F.
Published: May 2020

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) has various health benefits. Two case studies have associated chronic Rooibos consumption with conventional prescription medications, including atorvastatin (ATV), with hepatotoxicity. Statins act by inhibiting hydroxymethylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase, a rate‐limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. Although rare, statins are potentially hepatotoxic. The aim was to investigate interactions between aspalathin‐rich Rooibos extract GRT™ and ATV‐induced hepatotoxicity in C3A liver cells cultured with and without palmitate. Effects of co‐treatment of GRT + ATV on cell viability, oxidative stress, apoptosis, mitochondrial integrity, and cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were assessed. Significantly increased ROS production was observed in cells exposed to ATV and palmitate. Combination therapy of GRT + ATV also showed significant increases in ROS production. Under palmitate‐treated conditions, ATV‐induced significant apoptosis which was not ameliorated by GRT + ATV co‐treatment. Despite studies purporting hepatoprotection from Rooibos, our study showed that GRT was unable to modulate ATV‐induced hepatotoxic effects in this model.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio as prognostic and predictive factor in patients with coronavirus disease 2019: A retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yan Xisheng , Li Fen , Wang Xiao , Yan Jie , Zhu Fen , Tang Shifan , Deng Yingzhong , Wang Hua , Chen Rui , Yu Zhili , Li Yaping , Shang Jingzhou , Zeng Lingjun , Zhao Jie , Guan Chaokun , Liu Qiaomei , Chen Haifeng , Gong Wei , Huang Xin , Zhang Yu‐Jiao , Liu Jianguang , Dong Xiaoyan , Zheng Wen , Nie Shaoping , Li Dongsheng
Published: May 2020

This retrospective study was designed to explore whether neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a prognostic factor in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). A cohort of patients with COVID‐19 admitted to the Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University from 11 January 2020 to 3 March 2020 was retrospectively analyzed. Patients with hematologic malignancy were excluded. The NLR was calculated by dividing the neutrophil count by the lymphocyte count. NLR values were measured at the time of admission. The primary outcome was all‐cause in‐hospital mortality. A multivariate logistic analysis was performed. A total of 1004 patients with COVID‐19 were included in this study. The mortality rate was 4.0% (40 cases). The median age of nonsurvivors (68 years) was significantly older than survivors (62 years). Male sex was more predominant in nonsurvival group (27; 67.5%) than in the survival group (466; 48.3%). NLR value of nonsurvival group (median: 49.06; interquartile range [IQR]: 25.71‐69.70) was higher than that of survival group (median: 4.11; IQR: 2.44‐8.12; P < .001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjusting for confounding factors, NLR  more than 11.75 was significantly correlated with all‐cause in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio = 44.351; 95% confidence interval = 4.627‐425.088). These results suggest that the NLR at hospital admission is associated with in‐hospital mortality among patients with COVID‐19. Therefore, the NLR appears to be a significant prognostic biomarker of outcomes in critically ill patients with COVID‐19. However, further investigation is needed to validate this relationship with data collected prospectively.