bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MnOx Nanospikes as Nanoadjuvants and Immunogenic Cell Death Drugs with Enhanced Antitumor Immunity and Antimetastatic Effect
Authors: Ding Binbin , Zheng Pan , Jiang Fan , Zhao Yajie , Wang Meifang , Chang Mengyu , Ma Ping'an , Lin Jun
Published: June 2020

Despite the widespread applications of manganese oxide nanomaterials (MONs) in biomedicine, the intrinsic immunogenicity of MONs is still unclear. MnOx nanospikes (NSs) as tumor microenvironment (TME)‐responsive nanoadjuvants and immunogenic cell death (ICD) drugs are proposed for cancer nanovaccine‐based immunotherapy. MnOx NSs with large mesoporous structures show ultrahigh loading efficiencies for ovalbumin and tumor cell fragment. The combination of ICD via chemodynamic therapy and ferroptosis inductions, as well as antigen stimulations, presents a better synergistic immunopotentiation action. Furthermore, the obtained nanovaccines achieve TME‐responsive magnetic resonance/photoacoustic dual‐mode imaging contrasts, while effectively inhibiting primary/distal tumor growth and tumor metastasis.
Reversibly Switching the Charge State and Adsorption Location of A Single Potassium Atom on Ultrathin CuO Films
Authors: Peng Zhantao , Di Bin , Li Wentao , Liu Dan , Wen Xiaojie , Zhu Hao , Song Huanjun , Zhang Yajie , Yin Cen , Zhou Xiong , Wu Kai
Published: June 2020

Potassium (K) cations are spontaneously formed upon thermal deposition of low‐coverage K onto an ultrathin CuO monolayer grown on Cu(110) and they were explored by low‐temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy. The formed K cations are highly immobile and thermally stable. The local work function around an individual K cation decreases by 1.5±0.3 eV, and a charging zone underneath it is established within about 1.0 nm. The cationic and neutral states of the K atom are switchable upon application of an STM bias voltage pulse, which is simultaneously accompanied by an adsorption site relocation.
Optimized Immobilization Strategy for Dirhodium(II) Carboxylate Catalysts for C−H Functionalization and Their Implementation in a Packed Bed Flow Reactor
Authors: Hatridge Taylor A. , Liu Wenbin , Yoo Chun‐Jae , Davies Huw M. L. , Jones Christopher W.
Published: June 2020

Herein we demonstrate a packed bed flow reactor capable of achieving highly regio‐ and stereoselective C−H functionalization reactions using a newly developed Rh2(S‐2‐Cl‐5‐CF3TPCP)4 catalyst. To optimize the immobilized dirhodium catalyst employed in the flow reactor, we systematically study both (i) the effects of ligand immobilization position, demonstrating the critical factor that the catalyst‐support attachment location can have on the catalyst performance, and (ii) silica support mesopore length, demonstrating that decreasing diffusional limitations leads to increased accessibility of the active site and higher catalyst turnover frequency. We employ the immobilized dirhodium catalyst in a simple packed bed flow reactor achieving comparable yields and levels of enantioselectivity to the homogeneous catalyst employed in batch and maintain this performance over ten catalyst recycles.
A promising class of luminescent derivatives of Silver(I) and Gold(I)‐N‐heterocyclic carbene
Authors: Jhulki Lalmohan , Purkait Rakesh , Kisan HemantaK. , Bertolasi Valerio , Isab AnvarhuseinA. , Sinha Chittaranjan , Dinda Joydev
Published: June 2020

Starting from proligand 1‐methyl‐2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine‐2‐iumchloride (1.HCl), 1‐methyl‐2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine silver(I)chloride, (2) has been prepared. Synthesis, structures and photophysical properties of (2,2/−bipyridyl)‐1‐methyl‐2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridinesilver(I)hexaflurophosphate, (3), 1‐methyl‐2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridinesilver(I)carbazolate, (4) and 1‐methyl‐2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridinegold(I)carbazolate, (5) are focused. Herein we have first reported the NHC‐Ag‐(bpy/carbazole). All the complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, various spectroscopic studies and finally screened for luminescent properties. All the complexes are strongly emissive. Solid state structures of 2, 3, 4 and 5 have been determined by X‐ray diffraction studies. Conventionally, complex 2 adopts linear geometry whereas complex 3 embraces triangular planar geometry around Ag; complex 4 and 5 clinches linear geometry around Ag/Au. All the complexes absorb light within 275–343 nm. Complex 3 is luminous at ~407 mn, whereas complex 4 and 5 luminous at ~360 nm having short life time 1.00–6.97 ns. The quantum yield (Φem) of the complexes varies 0.106–0.186. It is expected variation of luminescence arises due to change of metal and the chromophore (bpy/carbazole). Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Temparature Dependent Density Functional Theory (TDDFT) calculations were performed to verify crystallographically derived parameters and to calculate the UV–Vis properties of the ground state as well as of the first excited state of the complexes.
Application of novel and reusable Fe3O4@CoII(macrocyclic Schiff base ligand) for multicomponent reactions of highly substituted thiopyridine and 4H‐chromene derivatives
Authors: Ebrahimiasl Hakimeh , Azarifar Davood , Rakhtshah Jamshid , Keypour Hassan , Mahmoudabadi Masoumeh
Published: June 2020

In this research study we designed and synthesized CoII(macrocyclic Schiff base ligand containing 1,4‐diazepane) immobilized on Fe3O4 nanoparticles as a novel, recyclable, and heterogeneous catalyst. The nanomaterial was fully characterized using various techniques such as Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, energy‐dispersiveX‐ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, vibrating sample magnetometry, differential reflectance spectroscopy, Brunauere–Emmette–Teller method, inductively coupled plasma, and elemental analysis (CHNS). Then, the catalytic performance was successfully investigated in the multicomponent synthesis of 2‐amino‐4‐aryl‐6‐(phenylsulfanyl)pyridine‐3,5‐dicarbonitrile and 2‐amino‐5,10‐dioxo‐4‐aryl‐5,10‐dihydro‐4H‐benzo[g]chromene‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives. Furthermore, the catalyst was isolated using a simple filtration, and recovery of the nanocatalyst was demonstrated five times without any loss of activity.
Influence of valence state of cerium ion on dimethyl carbonate synthesis from methanol and carbon dioxide over CeO2
Authors: Zhang Jingyang , Zhao Shuyang , Zhao Yujun , Ma Xinbin , Wang Shengping
Published: June 2020

The relationship between valence state of cerium ion and the catalytic activity for dimethyl carbonate (DMC) synthesis directly from carbon dioxide and methanol was investigated by using four CeO2 catalysts calcined at the different temperatures, which showed different concentrations of Ce4+ analyzed by XPS. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to probe CO2 and methanol adsorption species on ceria surface. With the calcination temperature increasing from 323 to 973 K, the concentration of Ce4+ increased, leading to larger proportion of active methanol adsorptions (Types I and II methoxy) and CO2 adsorptions (bidentate carbonate). Meanwhile, high‐calcination temperature also led to small surface area and more –OH group dehydration, which resulted in the less formation of active Types I and II methoxy and bidentate carbonate. As a result, the ceria calcined at 773 K showed the highest activity and the one calcined at 973 K performed the lowest.
Design, synthesis, evaluation, and molecular modeling studies of indolyl oxoacetamides as potential pancreatic lipase inhibitors
Authors: Sridhar S. N. C. , Palawat Saksham , Paul Atish T.
Published: June 2020

A series of indolyl oxoacetamide analogs was synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for their pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity using porcine pancreatic lipase (type II) and 4‐nitrophenyl butyrate. Compound 8d exhibited a potent inhibition, with an IC50 value of 4.53 µM, followed by 8c (IC50 = 5.12 µM), compared with the standard drug, orlistat (IC50 = 0.99 µM). Furthermore, analogs 8c and 8d exhibited a reversible competitive inhibition, similar to orlistat. Molecular docking studies of the compounds 7a–f and 8a–f were in agreement with the in vitro results, wherein 8d exhibited a potential MolDock score of −163.052 kcal/mol. A 10‐ns molecular dynamics simulation of 8d complexed with pancreatic lipase confirmed the role of π–π stacking and π–cation interactions with the lid domain and Arg 256, respectively, in stabilizing the ligand at the active site (maximum observed root mean square deviation ≈ 2 Å). The present study led to the identification of novel indolyl oxoacetamides (8a–d) as potential pancreatic lipase inhibitory leads that might further result in enhanced potency through lead optimization.
Two water‐soluble fluorescence probes based on 5(6)‐carboxyl rhodamine for Cu2+ imaging in living cells
Authors: Zhang Mengyao , Wang Jun , Jia Ting , Qiu Jianwen , Zhu Hu , Gao Yong
Published: June 2020

Two novel water‐soluble fluorescence probes T1 and T2 based on 5(6)‐carboxyl rhodamine were designed and synthesized using a regioselective reaction. The probes exhibited highly selective and sensitive recognition toward Cu2+ over other metal ions in acetonitrile/Tris–HCl buffer solution (2:98, v/v; pH 7.4). Detection limits were 0.4 μM for T1 and 4.50 μM for T2 based on fluorescence titration analysis. Furthermore, probe T1 was successfully applied in cell imaging experiments to monitor Cu2+ in cells.
Geographical differences in cancer treatment and survival for patients with oesophageal and gastro-oesophageal junctional cancers
Authors: Jestin Hannan C , Linder G , Kung C-H , Johansson J , Lindblad M , Hedberg J
Published: June 2020

Background

Only around one-quarter of patients with cancer of the oesophagus and the gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) undergo surgical resection. This population-based study investigated the rates of treatment with curative intent and resection, and their association with survival.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with oesophageal and GOJ cancer between 2006 and 2015 in Sweden were identified from the National Register for Oesophageal and Gastric Cancer (NREV). The NREV was cross-linked with several national registries to obtain information on additional exposures. The annual proportion of patients undergoing treatment with curative intent and surgical resection in each county was calculated, and the counties divided into groups with low, intermediate and high rates. Treatment with curative intent was defined as definitive chemoradiation therapy or surgery, with or without neoadjuvant oncological treatment. Overall survival was analysed using a multilevel model based on county of residence at the time of diagnosis.

Results

Some 5959 patients were included, of whom 1503 (25·2 per cent) underwent surgery. Median overall survival after diagnosis was 7·7, 8·8 and 11·1 months respectively in counties with low, intermediate and high rates of treatment with curative intent. Corresponding survival times for the surgical resection groups were 7·4, 9·3 and 11·0 months. In the multivariable analysis, a higher rate of treatment with curative intent (time ratio 1·17, 95 per cent c.i. 1·05 to 1·30; P < 0·001) and a higher resection rate (time ratio 1·24, 1·12 to 1·37; P < 0·001) were associated with improved survival after adjustment for relevant confounders.

Conclusion

Patients diagnosed in counties with higher rates of treatment with curative intent and higher rates of surgery had better survival.
Alzheimer's amyloid‐β and tau protein accumulation is associated with decreased expression of the LDL receptor‐associated protein in human brain tissue
Authors: Shepherd Claire E. , Affleck Andrew J. , Bahar Anita Y. , Carew‐Jones Francine , Gregory Gillian , Small David H. , Halliday Glenda M.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

One of the major neuropathological features of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the accumulation of amyloid‐β (Aβ) protein in the brain. Evidence suggests that the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐associated protein (RAP) binds strongly to Aβ and enhances its cellular uptake and that decreased RAP expression correlates with increased Aβ production in animal models of AD.

Methods

The current study examined whether RAP levels change in AD human brain tissue and whether they are related to the amount of AD pathology. RAP and NeuN levels were determined by Western blot, while low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 (LRP1), tau and Aβ levels were determined by ELISA in the temporal cortex of 17 AD and 16 control cases.

Results

An increase in total Aβ and insoluble and soluble tau protein was observed in AD brain tissue. In contrast, RAP levels were significantly decreased in AD brain tissue compared to controls. Correlation analysis revealed that levels of RAP correlated with both total Aβ and soluble and insoluble tau levels. Neither LRP1 nor NeuN levels were significantly altered in AD brain tissue homogenates and did not correlate with Aβ or tau protein levels.

Conclusion

Reduction in RAP may contribute to the accumulation and aggregation of Aβ in the AD brain.
Research on the construction and optimization of distributed Moodle course platform
Authors: Ma Yongqiang , Wang Shunli , Sun Wei , Yu Yandong , Bian Jing
Published: June 2020

The distributed Moodle course platform, a teaching platform of computer technology, has a positive driving force for the improvement of the teaching efficiency. To promote Chinese teaching in colleges and universities for the application of technology, the paper has summarized the theory of building a Moodle course platform. The platform for the curriculum system was constructed and applied in the process of teaching practice. Teaching effectiveness showed that students' performance was significantly improved after using the Moodle course platform, so the learning mode based on the Moodle course learning platform has strong feasibility. The purpose of this study is to provide reference and theoretical support for the improvement of the Chinese teaching model.
L‐Dex, arm volume, and symptom trajectories 24 months after breast cancer surgery
Authors: Ridner Sheila H. , Shah Chirag , Boyages John , Koelmeyer Louise , Ajkay Nicolas , DeSnyder Sarah M. , McLaughlin Sarah A. , Dietrich Mary S.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Study objectives were to examine: (a) biomarker trajectories (change from presurgical baseline values of Lymphedema index (L‐Dex) units and arm volume difference) and symptom cluster scores 24 months after breast cancer surgery and (b) associations of these objective biomarkers and symptom cluster scores. Patient/treatment characteristics influencing trajectories were also evaluated.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data from the published interim analysis of a randomized parent study was undertaken using trajectory analysis. Five hundred and eight participants included in the prior analysis with 24 months of postsurgical follow‐up were initially measured with bioelectric impedance spectroscopy (BIS) and tape measure (TM) and completed self‐report measures. Patients were reassessed postsurgery for continuing eligibility and then randomized to either BIS or TM groups and measured along with self‐report data at regular and optional* visits 3, 6,12,15*,18, 21*, and 24‐months.

Results

Three subclinical trajectories were identified for each biomarker (decreasing, stable, increasing) and symptom cluster scores (stable, slight increase/decrease, increasing). Subclinical lymphedema was identified throughout the 24‐month period by each biomarker. An L‐Dex increase at 15 months in the BIS group was noted. The self‐report sets demonstrated contingency coefficients of 0.20 (LSIDS‐A soft tissue, P = .031) and 0.19 (FACTB+4, P = .044) with the L‐Dex unit change trajectories.

Conclusions

These data support the need for long‐term (24 months) prospective surveillance with frequent assessments (every 3 months) at least 15 months after surgery. Statistically significant convergence of symptom cluster scores with L‐Dex unit change supports BIS as beneficial in the early identification of subclinical lymphedema.
Immersive walking in a virtual crowd: The effects of the density, speed, and direction of a virtual crowd on human movement behavior
Authors: Koilias Alexandros , Nelson Michael G. , Anagnostopoulos Christos‐Nikolaos , Mousas Christos
Published: June 2020

We investigated the movement behavior of participants walking within a virtual crowd in an immersive virtual environment. We investigated three different parameters that characterize a moving virtual crowd: density, speed, and direction. An immersive road‐crossing scenario that took place in a virtual metropolitan city was created. In this scenario, the participants were instructed to walk toward the opposite sidewalk. Three measurements (speed, deviation, and trajectory length) were used to evaluate the impact of the parameters assigned to the virtual crowd on the movement behavior of the participants. Significant results were found for both the main and interaction effects. The results suggested that the high density, low speed, and diagonal direction situations associated with the virtual crowd had the greatest impacts on the speed, deviation, and trajectory lengths of participants when they walked in a virtual environment and were surrounded by a moving virtual population.
Making one's religious self feel better about luxury use: The role of religiosity in choice of disposal option for luxury goods
Authors: Minton Elizabeth A. , Geiger‐Oneto Stephanie
Published: June 2020

While extant research examines the consumption of luxury products, consumers' methods for disposing of such products have yet to be examined, particularly as to how values drive disposal decisions. Through three studies, this research examines the influence of religious values, as measured by religiosity, on sustainable disposal options for luxury goods. Specifically, Study 1 shows that extrinsically (intrinsically) religious consumers are more likely to throw away (donate) luxury products after use. Study 2 examines the moderating influence of emotions to show that intrinsically (extrinsically) religious consumers are more (less) likely to use sustainable methods of product disposal for luxury and non‐luxury products alike after being primed to feel shame/guilt in comparison to a control condition. Study 3 uses mock social media ads for sustainable disposal programs by existing luxury brands to show that intrinsic religiosity (but not extrinsic religiosity) positively influences purchase intentions and brand attitudes toward brands offering disposal programs for their luxury goods. Additionally, Study 3 demonstrates that identity mediates this relationship. Findings build on belief‐congruence theory.
Hyperkalemia: A persisting risk. A case report and update on current management
Authors: Schnaubelt Sebastian , Niederdoeckl Jan , Schoergenhofer Christian , Cacioppo Filippo , Schuetz Nikola , Spiel Alexander O. , Hecking Manfred , Domanovits Hans
Published: June 2020

We report a case of hemodynamic instability due to bradycardia on the basis of severe hyperkalemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis and acute kidney injury together with polypharmacy triggered the acute onset. Potentially life‐threatening hyperkalemia is often induced by drug interactions. ECG features may be crucial for diagnosis, and treatment depends on setting and resources.
Recent Advances in Synthetic Application and Engineering of Halogenases
Authors: Minges Hannah , Sewald Norbert
Published: June 2020

Halogenating enzymes are able to introduce halogen substituents under ambient conditions using non‐hazardous reagents with intriguing selectivity, which is highly desired in green chemistry. Although C−H functionalization such as halogenation is a well‐known transformation in synthetic chemistry, the selective incorporation of halogens using conventional chemical approaches often remains challenging. Therefore, enzyme‐based strategies have been emerging as valuable alternatives in recent years. Inspired by manifold developments of enzymatic halogenation, this review focuses on advances of halogenating enzymes and their application with particular emphasis on FAD‐dependent halogenases (FDHs). Catalytic strategies, application scope and engineering of FDHs are outlined pointing to the increasing utility of halogenases as promising biocatalysts. Current limitations as well as potential future developments of their synthetic utility are being discussed.
Aerobic Dehydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles with Grubbs Catalyst: Its Application to Assisted‐Tandem Catalysis to Construct N‐Containing Fused Heteroarenes
Authors: Kawauchi Daichi , Noda Kenta , Komatsu Yoshiyuki , Yoshida Kei , Ueda Hirofumi , Tokuyama Hidetoshi
Published: June 2020

An aerobic dehydrogenation of nitrogen‐containing heterocycles catalyzed by Grubbs catalyst is developed. The reaction is applicable to various nitrogen‐containing heterocycles. The exceptionally high functional group compatibility of this method was confirmed by the oxidation of an unprotected dihydroindolactam V to indolactam V. Furthermore, by taking advantage of the oxygen‐mediated structural change of the Grubbs catalyst, we integrated ring‐closing metathesis and subsequent aerobic dehydrogenation to develop the novel assisted‐tandem catalysis using molecular oxygen as a chemical trigger. The utility of the assisted‐tandem catalysis was demonstrated by the concise synthesis of N‐containing fused heteroarenes including a natural antibiotic, pyocyanine.
Benzosiloles with Crystallization‐Induced Emission Enhancement of Electrochemiluminescence: Synthesis, Electrochemistry, and Crystallography
Authors: Yang Liuqing , Koo Donghyun , Wu Jackie , Wong Jonathan M. , Day Tyler , Zhang Ruizhong , Kolongoda Harshana , Liu Kehan , Wang Jian , Ding Zhifeng , Pagenkopf Brian L.
Published: June 2020

Crystallization‐induced emission enhancement (CIEE) was demonstrated for the first time for electrochemilunimescence (ECL) with two new benzosiloles. Compared with their solution, the films of the two benzosiloles gave CIEE of 24 and 16 times. The mechanism of the CIEE‐ECL was examined by spooling ECL spectroscopy, X‐ray crystal structure analysis, photoluminescence, and DFT calculations. This CIEE‐ECL system is a complement to the well‐established aggregation‐induced emission enhancement (AIEE) systems. Unique intermolecular interactions are noted in the crystalline chromophore. The first heterogeneous ECL system is established for organic compounds with highly hydrophobic properties.
Synthesis and Anticancer Properties of Oxazepines Related to Azaisoerianin and IsoCoQuines
Authors: Khelifi Ilhem , Pecnard Shannon , Bernadat Guillaume , Bignon Jérome , Levaique Hélène , Dubois Joëlle , Provot Olivier , Alami Mouad
Published: June 2020

In this article, we report the synthesis and biological properties of a series of novel oxazepines related to isoCA‐4 having significant antitumor properties. Among them, three oxazepin‐9‐ol derivatives display a nanomolar or a sub‐nanomolar cytotoxicity level against five human cancer cell lines (HCT116, U87, A549, MCF7, and K562). It was demonstrated that the lead compound in this series inhibits tubulin assembly with an IC50 value of 1 μM and totally arrests the cellular cycle in the G2/M phase at the low concentration of 5 nM in HCT116 and K562 cells. Molecular modeling studies perfectly corroborates these promising results.
Long‐term survival among 5‐year survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer
Authors: Berkman Amy M. , Livingston J. A. , Merriman Kelly , Hildebrandt Michelle , Wang Jian , Dibaj Seyedeh , McQuade Jennifer , You Nancy , Ying Anita , Barcenas Carlos , Bodurka Diane , DePombo April , Lee Hun Ju , de Groot John , Roth Michael
Published: June 2020

Background

Although there are a growing number of survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer, to the authors' knowledge the long‐term overall survival (OS) patterns for AYA cancer survivors are underreported. The objective of the current study was to assess the long‐term survival of AYA cancer survivors and identify factors associated with diminished long‐term survival.

Methods

The authors used The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center's tumor registry to identify 5‐year survivors of cancer diagnosed as AYAs (ages 15‐39 years) between the years 1970 and 2005, and who were alive 5 years after diagnosis. Kaplan‐Meier curves were used to estimate OS rates over time, and Cox proportional hazards models were fitted to evaluate the association of covariates with OS.

Results

The authors identified 16,728 individuals who were 5‐year survivors of cancer and were diagnosed as AYAs with a median follow‐up of 20.0 years. The 10‐year, 20‐year, and 25‐year OS rates were 86% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 85%‐86%), 74% (95% CI, 73%‐75%), and 68% (95% CI, 67%‐68%), respectively, all of which were lower than the age‐adjusted estimated survival rates of the general population. Long‐term OS improved for AYAs diagnosed between 2000 and 2005 compared with those diagnosed in the prior decades (P < .001). Older age at the time of diagnosis, receipt of radiation, and diagnoses including central nervous system tumors and breast cancer each were associated with diminished long‐term survival.

Conclusions

AYA cancer survivors have inferior long‐term survival compared with the general population. Studies investigating the prevalence and types of late treatment effects and causes of death among AYA survivors are needed to more accurately identify AYAs who are at highest risk of early or late mortality.
A crabs' high‐order brain center resolved as a mushroom body‐like structure
Authors: Maza Francisco Javier , Sztarker Julieta , Cozzarin Maria Eugenia , Lepore Maria Grazia , Delorenzi Alejandro
Published: June 2020

The hypothesis of a common origin for high‐order memory centers in bilateral animals presents the question of how different brain structures, such as the vertebrate hippocampus and the arthropod mushroom bodies, are both structurally and functionally comparable. Obtaining evidence to support the hypothesis that crustaceans possess structures equivalent to the mushroom bodies that play a role in associative memories has proved challenging. Structural evidence supports that the hemiellipsoid bodies of hermit crabs, crayfish and lobsters, spiny lobsters, and shrimps are homologous to insect mushroom bodies. Although a preliminary description and functional evidence supporting such homology in true crabs (Brachyura) has recently been shown, other authors consider the identification of a possible mushroom body homolog in Brachyura as problematic. Here we present morphological and immunohistochemical data in Neohelice granulata supporting that crabs possess well‐developed hemiellipsoid bodies that are resolved as mushroom bodies‐like structures. Neohelice exhibits a peduncle‐like tract, from which processes project into proximal and distal domains with different neuronal specializations. The proximal domains exhibit spines and en passant‐like processes and are proposed here as regions mainly receiving inputs. The distal domains exhibit a “trauben”‐like compartmentalized structure with bulky terminal specializations and are proposed here as output regions. In addition, we found microglomeruli‐like complexes, adult neurogenesis, aminergic innervation, and elevated expression of proteins necessary for memory processes. Finally, in vivo calcium imaging suggests that, as in insect mushroom bodies, the output regions exhibit stimulus‐specific activity. Our results support the shared organization of memory centers across crustaceans and insects.
Pattern synthesis of thinned multi‐input multi‐output radar using difference set and differential evolution
Authors: Shi Guimin , Yang Sheng , Jiang Yi , Luo Zhiming
Published: June 2020

To lower the side lobe level of MIMO (Multi‐input Multi‐output) radar, a new method, diffenence set and diffderential evolution (DSDE), was proposed. The newly proposed method can arrange the location of the linear MIMO radar antenna arrays by differential set (DS) and optimize the excitation amplitude of each antenna by Differential Evolution (DE). DS is a kind of analysis calculation method, which has faster calculation speed than intelligent optimization methods and has solid optimization ability in thinned antenna array optimization problems. Besides, DE is one of the best stochastic optimization methods which can keep the diversity and avoid premature of the population. Consequently, the proposed DSDE can achieve high performance in the arrangement of arrays and excitation amplitude optimization. Numerical experiments are conducted to test the performance of the proposed algorithm, and the results showed that the analysis optimization method and stochastic optimization method are suitable for solving the problem of pattern synthesis of MIMO radar and keep the diversity with better convergence.
Does it pay off? Integrated reporting and cost of debt: European evidence
Authors: Gerwanski Jannik
Published: June 2020

Although the  (Integrated Reporting) Framework defines providers of financial capital as both equity and debt holders, there is a distinct lack of research on the association between IR and debt. This study is the first to examine the effect of the voluntary preparation of an integrated report on the marginal cost of public debt. From an agency theoretical standpoint, we assume that IR decreases information asymmetries, facilitates lenders' assessments of a firm's risk of default, and thus is negatively related to a firm's cost of public debt. On the basis of a European sample, consisting of 2,196 firm‐year observations between 2015 and 2017, we find that IR significantly decreases a firm's cost of debt. In subsequent moderation analyses, the results reveal that this effect (a) is stronger for firms with lower ESG performance and (b) holds only for firms operating in environmentally sensitive industries. The results are robust to a battery of statistical models. We expand on earlier empirical literature on IR and provide valuable implications for research, practice, and standard setting.
Neck circumference as reliable predictor of mechanical ventilation support in adult inpatients with COVID‐19: A multicentric prospective evaluation
Authors: Di Bella Stefano , Cesareo Roberto , De Cristofaro Paolo , Palermo Andrea , Sanson Gianfranco , Roman‐Pognuz Erik , Zerbato Verena , Manfrini Silvia , Giacomazzi Donatella , Dal Bo Eugenia , Sambataro Gianluca , Macchini Elisabetta , Quintavalle Francesco , Campagna Giuseppe , Masala Renato , Ottaviani Luigi , Del Borgo Cosmo , Ridola Lorenzo , Leonetti Frida , Berlot Giorgio , Luzzati Roberto
Published: June 2020

Aims

COVID‐19 is especially severe for elderly subjects with cardiometabolic and respiratory comorbidities. Neck circumference (NC) has been shown to be strongly related to cardiometabolic and respiratory illnesses even after adjustment for body mass index (BMI). We performed a prospective study to investigate the potential of NC to predict the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in adult COVID‐19 inpatients.

Materials and Methods

We prospectively and consecutively enrolled COVID‐19 adult patients admitted to dedicated medical wards of two Italian hospitals from 25 March to 7 April 2020. On admission, clinical, biochemical and anthropometric data, including BMI and NC were collected. As primary outcome measure, the maximum respiratory support received was evaluated. Follow‐up time was 30 days from hospital admission.

Results

We enrolled 132 subjects (55.0‐75.8 years, 32% female). During the study period, 26 (19.7%) patients underwent IMV. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, after adjusting for age, sex, diabetes, hypertension and COPD, NC resulted independently and significantly associated with IMV risk (adjusted OR 1.260—per 1 cm increase 95% CI:1.120‐1.417; P < .001), with a stronger association in the subgroup with BMI ≤30 Kg/m2 (adjusted OR 1.526; 95% CI:1.243‐1.874; P < .001). NC showed a good discrimination power in predicting patients requiring IMV (AUC 0.783; 95% CI:0.684‐0.882; P < .001). In particular, NC > 40.5 cm (>37.5 for females and >42.5 for males) showed a higher and earlier IMV risk compared to subjects with lower NC (Log‐rank test: P < .001).

Conclusions

NC is an easy to measure parameter able to predict the need for IMV in adult COVID‐19 inpatients.
Convergent morphological responses to loss of flight in rails (Aves: Rallidae)
Authors: Gaspar Julien , Gibb Gillian C. , Trewick Steve A.
Published: June 2020

The physiological demands of flight exert strong selection pressure on avian morphology and so it is to be expected that the evolutionary loss of flight capacity would involve profound changes in traits. Here, we investigate morphological consequences of flightlessness in a bird family where the condition has evolved repeatedly. The Rallidae include more than 130 recognized species of which over 30 are flightless. Morphological and molecular phylogenetic data were used here to compare species with and without the ability to fly in order to determine major phenotypic effects of the transition from flighted to flightless. We find statistical support for similar morphological response among unrelated flightless lineages, characterized by a shift in energy allocation from the forelimbs to the hindlimbs. Indeed, flightless birds exhibit smaller sterna and wings than flighted taxa in the same family along with wider pelves and more robust femora. Phylogenetic signal tests demonstrate that those differences are independent of phylogeny and instead demonstrate convergent morphological adaptation associated with a walking ecology. We found too that morphological variation was greater among flightless rails than flighted ones, suggesting that relaxation of physiological demands during the transition to flightlessness frees morphological traits to evolve in response to more varied ecological opportunities.
Drought mildly reduces plant dominance in a temperate prairie ecosystem across years
Authors: Castillioni Karen , Wilcox Kevin , Jiang Lifen , Luo Yiqi , Jung Chang Gyo , Souza Lara
Published: June 2020

Shifts in dominance and species reordering can occur in response to global change. However, it is not clear how altered precipitation and disturbance regimes interact to affect species composition and dominance.

We explored community‐level diversity and compositional similarity responses, both across and within years, to a manipulated precipitation gradient and annual clipping in a mixed‐grass prairie in Oklahoma, USA. We imposed seven precipitation treatments (five water exclusion levels [−20%, −40%, −60%, −80%, and −100%], water addition [+50%], and control [0% change in precipitation]) year‐round from 2016 to 2018 using fixed interception shelters. These treatments were crossed with annual clipping to mimic hay harvest.

We found that community‐level responses were influenced by precipitation across time. For instance, plant evenness was enhanced by extreme drought treatments, while plant richness was marginally promoted under increased precipitation.

Clipping promoted species gain resulting in greater richness within each experimental year. Across years, clipping effects further reduced the precipitation effects on community‐level responses (richness and evenness) at both extreme drought and added precipitation treatments.

Synthesis: Our results highlight the importance of studying interactive drivers of change both within versus across time. For instance, clipping attenuated community‐level responses to a gradient in precipitation, suggesting that management could buffer community‐level responses to drought. However, precipitation effects were mild and likely to accentuate over time to produce further community change.
Large‐scale patterns of seed removal by small mammals differ between areas of low‐ versus high‐wolf occupancy
Authors: Chandler Jennifer L. , Van Deelen Timothy R. , Nibbelink Nathan P. , Orrock John L.
Published: June 2020

Because most tree species recruit from seeds, seed predation by small‐mammal granivores may be important for determining plant distribution and regeneration in forests. Despite the importance of seed predation, large‐scale patterns of small‐mammal granivory are often highly variable and thus difficult to predict. We hypothesize distributions of apex predators can create large‐scale variation in the distribution and abundance of mesopredators that consume small mammals, creating predictable areas of high and low granivory. For example, because gray wolf (Canis lupus) territories are characterized by relatively less use by coyotes (C. latrans) and greater use by foxes (Vulpes vulpes, Urocyon cinereoargentus) that consume a greater proportion of small mammals, wolf territories may be areas of reduced small‐mammal granivory. Using large‐scale, multiyear field trials at 22 sites with high‐ and low‐wolf occupancy in northern Wisconsin, we evaluated whether removal of seeds of four tree species was lower in wolf territories. Consistent with the hypothesized consequences of wolf occupancy, seed removal of three species was more than 25% lower in high‐wolf‐occupancy areas across 2 years and small‐mammal abundance was more than 40% lower in high‐wolf areas during one of two study years. These significant results, in conjunction with evidence of seed consumption in situ and the absence of significant habitat differences between high‐ and low‐wolf areas, suggest that top‐down effects of wolves on small‐mammal granivory and seed survival may occur. Understanding how interactions among carnivores create spatial patterns in interactions among lower trophic levels may allow for more accurate predictions of large‐scale patterns in seed survival and forest composition.
Complete recovery of fulminant cytotoxic CD8 T‐cell‐mediated myocarditis after ECMELLA unloading and immunosuppression
Authors: Jurcova Ivana , Rocek Jan , Bracamonte‐Baran William , Zelizko Michael , Netuka Ivan , Maluskova Jana , Kautzner Josef , Cihakova Daniela , Melenovsky Vojtech , Maly Jiri
Published: June 2020

A 19‐year‐old woman with no previous cardiac history was admitted to the hospital with third‐degree atrioventricular block and left ventricular dysfunction. Her condition quickly deteriorated to severe biventricular failure and cardiogenic shock requiring mechanical circulatory support. An endomyocardial biopsy revealed lymphocytic myocarditis with no PCR‐detectable viral genomes, with CD8 T‐cell predominance and pro‐inflammatory macrophage expansion shown by myocardial flow cytometry. The therapy consisted of immunosuppression (high‐dose methylprednisolone) and temporary mechanical circulatory support with enhanced ability to achieve left ventricular unloading by combination of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with Impella (ECMELLA). After 2 weeks of support, complete and sustained recovery from myocarditis was observed.
Application of Lah transform for security and privacy of data through information hiding in telecommunication
Authors: Ghosal Sudipta Kr , Mukhopadhyay Souradeep , Hossain Sabbir , Sarkar Ram
Published: June 2020

Due to rapid growth of digital communication attributed to advancement of Internet technologies, at every time instant huge amount of multimedia information is created and transmitted on the Internet. However, ownership identification, copyright violation, and identity theft are proving as the serious concerns because of the malicious attacks or hacking of open information. Attackers can alter or delete the information, and claim the ownership or prevent the receiver to get the data. Hence, researchers try to address such challenges. One such effort is concerned with multimedia data hiding through Steganography. In this article, a polynomial sequence generator called Lah Transform (LhT) is applied for developing a Steganography method. LhT generates an integer polynomial sequence in coefficient form by evaluating the pixel values using addition and multiplication. Initially, the cover image is partitioned into nonoverlappingb‐pixel groups (where,b = 3 or 4) which in succession are converted into transform domain using LhT in row‐major order. Secret bits are embedded into the LhT coefficients in varying proportions to achieve variable payload. Coefficient adjustment followed by the embedding process ensures minimum quality distortion. Inverse LhT is applied to regenerateb‐pixel groups in the spatial domain. Results assure that incongruity between the cover pixels and stego‐pixels rises as the value ofbincreases. Hence, to achieve a high payload, smaller values ofbare chosen. The proposed method yields higher peak signal to noise ratio values and payload compared to some recent methods found in the literature. Code of our method is availablehere.
Influence of grape seeds on wine composition and astringency of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon wines
Authors: Gombau Jordi , Pons‐Mercadé Pere , Conde Marta , Asbiro Lucie , Pascual Olga , Gómez‐Alonso Sergio , García‐Romero Esteban , Miquel Canals Joan , Hermosín‐Gutiérrez Isidro , Zamora Fernando
Published: June 2020

Background

The aim of this work was to study the influence of grape berry morphology, especially the seed weight percentage, on the tannin concentration and astringency of red wine. Clusters of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon were characterized and their seeds were extracted and macerated in a model wine solution. In parallel, we elaborated three types of wines of each cultivar. One wine was made with only grape juice, one wine was made adding the appropriate proportion of seeds to the grape juice, and the last wine was elaborated with the complete destemmed and crushed berries.

Results

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which have higher percentage of seed weight with respect to the berry weight than Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes originated wines with higher tannin concentration and astringency than Tempranillo and Garnacha wines.

Conclusion

The main conclusion of this study is that the seed weight percentage with respect to the berry weight is one of the main determinants of the final tannin concentration and astringency of red wines.
Amygdala and ventral tegmental area differentially interact with hippocampus and cortical medial temporal lobe during rest in humans
Authors: Gregory David F. , Ritchey Maureen , Murty Vishnu P.
Published: June 2020

Neuromodulatory regions that detect salience, such as amygdala and ventral tegmental area (VTA), have distinct effects on memory. Yet, questions remain about how these modulatory regions target subregions across the hippocampus and medial temporal lobe (MTL) cortex. Here, we sought to characterize how VTA and amygdala subregions (i.e., basolateral amygdala and central‐medial amygdala) interact with hippocampus head, body, and tail, as well as cortical MTL areas of perirhinal cortex and parahippocampal cortex in a task‐free state. To quantify these interactions, we used high‐resolution resting state fMRI and characterized pair‐wise, partial correlations across regions‐of‐interest. We found that basolateral amygdala showed greater functional coupling with hippocampus head, hippocampus tail, and perirhinal cortex when compared to either VTA or central‐medial amygdala. Furthermore, the VTA showed greater functional coupling with hippocampus tail when compared to central‐medial amygdala. There were no significant differences in functional coupling with hippocampus body and parahippocampal cortex. These results support a framework by which neuromodulatory regions do not indiscriminately influence all MTL subregions equally, but rather bias information processing to discrete MTL targets. These findings provide a more specified model of the intrinsic properties of systems underlying MTL neuromodulation. This emphasizes the need to consider heterogeneity both across and within neuromodulatory systems to better understand affective memory.
Guidance about age‐friendly outdoor exercise equipment and associated strategies to maximise usability for older people
Authors: Levinger Pazit , Panisset Maya , Parker Helen , Batchelor Frances , Tye Marian , Hill Keith D.
Published: June 2020

Outdoor exercise equipment has become popular as important environmental infrastructure to provide opportunities for physical activity and social connectedness in public settings. With higher sedentary behaviour and physical inactivity reported among older people, infrastructure changes and safe environments that promote older peoples’ health and mobility are required. Due to ageing‐related functional decline and health conditions associated with ageing, older adults may have special physical needs that require careful consideration when choosing outdoor equipment. However, limited information is available regarding the suitability of the types of exercise equipment for older people. This commentary provides further information on the type of equipment available, its functionality and suitability for older age populations and key considerations for the decision‐maker involved in selecting, installing and supporting community use of outdoor exercise equipment. Recommendations on what is required to maximise usability from a system or organisational‐based approach using research evidence is also discussed. Older people are more susceptible to the negative influences of their local environment and outdoor neighbourhood conditions. Consequently, the age‐friendliness and suitability of the outdoor exercise equipment characteristics, location and settings may facilitate older adults’ engagement in physical and social activities.
Clinical pharmacy service and international collaboration: Model and experience from a medical center in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Chien‐Chih , Lin Fang‐Ju , Lin Shu‐Wen , Ho Yunn‐Fang , Huang Chih‐Fen , Shen Li‐Jiuan , Wu Fe‐Lin Lin
Published: June 2020

Clinical pharmacy services (CPS) have been well established in the United States for decades but are still not fully applied in many other countries, such as Taiwan. Training competent clinical pharmacists through international collaboration could accelerate the improvement and development of high‐quality CPS. This brief report describes the successful experience of National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) and its model of CPS development and clinical pharmacist cultivation through working with prestigious pharmacy schools abroad. The profession and value of pharmacists lie in providing patients with better drug treatments and outcomes. CPS provided in inpatient departments, pharmacist clinics, and operating room pharmacy through international collaboration all have shown clinical benefits at NTUH. Besides providing high‐quality pharmaceutical care, competent clinical pharmacists participate in clinical lectures, case discussions, and play a critical role as clinical preceptors for advanced pharmacy practice experiences of National Taiwan University (NTU) Pharmacy School, which supports the first Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program in Taiwan. Clinical pharmacists are also encouraged to be involved in clinical research to show the value of pharmacy services and to improve patient care. Our experience in CPS development and talent cultivation can be a reference for other hospitals so that we can all work together to enhance the value of pharmacists and improve patient care.