bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertically Aligned Nanopatterns of Amine‐Functionalized Ti3C2 MXene via Soft Lithography
Authors: Song Tae‐Eun , Yun Hwajin , Kim Yong‐Jae , Jeon Ho Seung , Ha Kyungryul , Jung Hee‐Tae , Han Hee , Gogotsi Yury , Ahn Chi Won , Lee Yonghee
Published: August 2020

Thin films of well‐stacked two‐dimensional MXene flakes have been used in various applications, especially in sensors and microscale energy storage devices, such as micro‐supercapacitors. Miniaturization and integration of devices, as well as maximization of device performance require nanoscale patterning of MXene, beyond what can be achieved using inkjet or screen printing. However, nanoscale patterning technology for MXene is yet to be developed. In the present work, a simple fabrication method is demonstrated for manufacturing Ti3C2Tx MXene films with vertically aligned nanopatterns via soft lithography. This process involves polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stamping with line‐patterned PDMS molds. The feature size of the vertical line patterning of MXene is controlled with the nanometers accuracy by swelling of the PDMS mold by toluene, which also guides vertical alignment of MXene flakes. As a result, vertically aligned MXene nanopatterns are fabricated with a width of ridges less than 200 nm and 2‐µm regular spacing between the ridges. The oleylamine‐functionalized MXene flakes are also developed for better dispersion in toluene, providing a general protocol to fabricate MXene dispersions in nonpolar solvents.
Rising Temperature May Trigger Deep Soil Carbon Loss Across Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Li Jinquan , Pei Junmin , Pendall Elise , Reich Peter B. , Noh Nam Jin , Li Bo , Fang Changming , Nie Ming
Published: August 2020

Significantly more carbon (C) is stored in deep soil than in shallow horizons, yet how the decomposition of deep soil organic C (SOC) will respond to rising temperature remains unexplored on large scales, leading to considerable uncertainties to predictions of the magnitude and direction of C‐cycle feedbacks to climate change. Herein, short‐term temperature sensitivity of SOC decomposition (expressed as Q10) from six depths within the top 1 m soil from 90 upland forest sites (540 soil samples) across China is reported. Results show that Q10 significantly increases with soil depth, suggesting that deep SOC is more vulnerable to loss with rising temperature in comparison to shallow SOC. Climate is the primary regulator of shallow soil Q10 but its relative influence declines with depth; in contrast, soil C quality has a minor influence on Q10 in shallow soil but increases its influence with depth. When considering the depth‐dependent Q10 variations, results further show that using the thermal response of shallow soil layer for the whole soil profile, as is usually done in model predictions, would significantly underestimate soil C‐climate feedbacks. The results highlight that Earth system models need to consider multilayer soil C dynamics and their controls to improve prediction accuracy.
Degradation of MO and H2O2 on Cu/γ‐Al2O3 pellets in a fixed bed reactor: Kinetics and transport characteristics
Authors: Ding Doudou , Tian Pengfei , Cao Chenxi , Sun Yang , Xu Jing , Han Yi‐Fan
Published: August 2020

Pelletized Cu catalysts (Cu/γ‐Al2O3) with different diameters (dp = 1.1–4.2 mm) were prepared and examined kinetically for methyl orange (MO) degradation using a fixed bed reactor. A Cu/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst (dp = 2.3 mm) exhibited high degradation activity (Conv.MO > 95%) and superior leaching resistance (Cu leaching <0.6 mg/L in 200 hr). Apparent kinetics showed that both MO degradation and H2O2 decomposition were mainly controlled by internal mass transfer. A plug‐flow reactor model with mass‐transfer coefficients was developed, and a modified empirical correlation for external mass transfer (Sh = 1.5Re'1.10Sc0.42) was proposed to accurately describe the species transport from/to the catalyst pellets in the low Reynolds number regime. The model was verified against conversions of pollutants degradation and H2O2 decomposition separately in a fixed bed with relative errors <5% compared with experimental data; thus, it could be used as an effective tool for further design and optimization of reactor configuration and reaction conditions for the continuous catalytic wet peroxide oxidation process.
Pulmonary Adverse Events in Patients Receiving Low‐Dose Methotrexate in the Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Cardiovascular Inflammation Reduction Trial
Authors: Sparks Jeffrey A. , Dellaripa Paul F. , Glynn Robert J. , Paynter Nina P. , Xu Chang , Ridker Paul M. , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: August 2020

Objective

We previously reported that low‐dose methotrexate (MTX) was associated with an increased risk of pulmonary adverse events (AEs) in a large randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. Herein, we report details on the predictors and severity of pulmonary AEs.

Methods

We conducted a prespecified analysis of pulmonary AEs in the Cardiovascular Inflammation Reduction Trial. Adults with known cardiovascular disease and diabetes/metabolic syndrome were randomly allocated to receive low‐dose MTX (target dose 15–20 mg/week) or placebo after a 6–8‐week open‐label run‐in phase in which all patients received low‐dose MTX. Individuals with systemic inflammatory diseases were excluded. Pulmonary AEs were adjudicated in a blinded manner. We described severe pulmonary AEs and examined associations of baseline characteristics with pulmonary AEs in patients receiving low‐dose MTX.

Results

A total of 2,391 subjects were randomized to receive low‐dose MTX and 2,395 to receive placebo. There were 13 severe pulmonary AEs (0.5%) and 7 cases of possible pneumonitis (0.3%) in the low‐dose MTX group, compared to 8 (0.3%) and 1 (<0.1%), respectively, in the placebo group. Among those randomized to receive low‐dose MTX, risk factors for any pulmonary AE included female sex (hazard ratio [HR] 1.69 versus male sex [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.16–2.45]), white race (HR 2.35 versus other race [95% CI 1.03–5.36]), and insulin use (HR 1.60 versus non‐use [95% CI 1.11–2.30]). The only risk factor for severe pulmonary AEs was older age at baseline (HR 1.09 per year increase [95% CI 1.02–1.16]).

Conclusion

In this large placebo‐controlled trial, pulmonary AEs, including possible pneumonitis, were uncommon but were more likely to occur in those randomized to receive low‐dose MTX. White race, older age, male sex, and insulin use were associated with an increased risk of pulmonary AEs in those receiving low‐dose MTX.
Zero‐Dimensional Hybrid Cd‐Based Perovskites with Broadband Bluish White‐Light Emissions
Authors: Sun Chen , He Wen‐Li , Liu Mei‐Jun , Pan Wen‐Jing , Dong Lin‐Feng , Chen Guang , Liu Guo‐Dong , Lei Xiao‐Wu
Published: August 2020

Recently, low‐dimensional organic‐inorganic hybrid metal halide perovskites acting as single‐component white‐light emitting materials have attracted extensive attention, but most studies concentrate on hybrid lead perovskites. Herein, we present two isomorphic zero‐dimensional (0D) hybrid cadmium perovskites, (HMEDA)CdX4 (HMEDA=hexamethylenediamine, X=Cl (1), Br (2)), which contain isolated [CdX4]2− anions separated by [HMEDA]2+ cations. Under UV light excitation, both compounds display broadband bluish white‐light emission (515 nm for 1 and 445 nm for 2) covering the entire visible light spectrum with sufficient photophysical stabilities. Remarkably, compound 2 shows a high color rendering index (CRI) of 83 enabling it as a promising candidate for single‐component WLED applications. Based on the temperature‐dependent, powder‐dependent and time‐resolved PL measurements as well as other detailed studies, the broadband light emissions are attributed to self‐trapped excitons stemming from the strong electron‐phonon coupling.
Combined genomic and transcriptomic analysis of the dibutyl phthalate metabolic pathway in Arthrobacter sp. ZJUTW
Authors: Liu Tengfei , Li Jun , Qiu Lequan , Zhang Fuming , Linhardt Robert J. , Zhong Weihong
Published: August 2020

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is an environmental pollutant that can threaten human health. The strain Arthrobacter sp. ZJUTW, isolated from the sludge of a river of Hangzhou, can efficiently degrade DBP. Its genomic and transcriptomic differences when cultivated with DBP compared with glucose revealed specific DBP metabolic pathways in the ZJUTW strain. The degrading gene clusters localize separately on a circular chromosome and a plasmid pQL1. Genes related to the initial steps of DBP degradation from DBP to phthalic acid (PA), the pehA gene, and pht gene cluster, are located on the plasmid pQL1. However, the pca gene cluster related to the transforming of intermediate protocatechuic acid (PCA) to acetyl‐CoA, is located on the chromosome. After comparative analysis with the reported gene clusters, we found that there were a series of homologous genes in pht and pca gene clusters that contribute to the efficient degradation of DBP by ZJUTW. In addition, transcriptomic analysis suggested a synergistic effect between pht and pca clusters, which also favor ZJUTW allowing it to efficiently degrade DBP. Combined genomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed a complete DBP metabolic pathway in Arthrobacter sp. ZJUTW that is different from that of other reported Arthrobacter strains. After necessary modification based on its metabolic characteristics, Arthrobacter sp. ZJUTW or its derivatives might represent promising candidates for the bioremediation of DBP pollution.
Display of lead‐binding proteins on Escherichia coli surface for lead bioremediation
Authors: Jia Xiaoqiang , Li Ying , Xu Tao , Wu Kang
Published: August 2020

Cell surface display of heavy metal‐binding proteins has been used to enhance the adsorption capacity of heavy metals and the engineered microbial cells can be potentially used for the bioremediation of heavy metals. In this study, the proteins PbrR, PbrR691, and PbrD from the Cupriavidus metallidurans strain CH34 were displayed on the extracellular membrane of Escherichia coli BL21 cells, with the N‐domain of ice‐nucleation protein as the anchor protein to achieve specific adsorption of lead ions (Pb2+) and bioremediation of lead in the soil. The localization of fusion proteins was confirmed by western blot analysis. We investigated the effects of fusion pattern, expression level, heavy metal concentration, and the presence of other heavy metal ions on the adsorption of Pb2+ by these engineered bacteria, and the optimal linker peptide (flexible linker) and inducer concentration (0.5 mM) were obtained. The engineered bacteria showed specific selectivity and strong adsorption capacity for Pb2+. The maximum Pb2+ adsorption capacity of strains displaying the three proteins (PbrR, PbrR691, and PbrD) were 942.1‐, 754.3‐, and 864.8‐μmol/g cell dry weight, respectively, which was the highest reported to date. The engineered E. coli bacteria were also applied to Pb2+‐contaminated soil and the detoxification effects were observed via the seed germination test and the growth of Nicotiana benthamiana in comparison with the control BL21, which provides the proof‐of‐concept for in situ remediations of Pb2+‐contaminated water or soil.
Two‐year outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐eluting stents or bare‐metal stents in elderly patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Lafont Alexandre , Sinnaeve Peter R , Cuisset Thomas , Cook Stéphane , Sideris Giorgios , Kedev Sasko , Carrie Didier , Hovasse Thomas , Garot Philippe , El Mahmoud Rami , Spaulding Christian , Helft Gérard , Diaz Fernandez José F , Brugaletta Salvatore , Pinar‐Bermudez Eduardo , Ferre Josepa Mauri , Commeau Philippe , Teiger Emmanuel , Bogaerts Kris , Sabate Manel , Morice Marie Claude , Varenne Olivier ,   for the SENIOR investigators
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Report the results at 2 years of the patients included in the SENIOR trial.

Background

Patients above 75 years of age represent a fast‐growing population in the cathlab. In the SENIOR trial, patients treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug eluting stent (DES) and a short duration of P2Y12 inhibitor (1 and 6 months for stable and unstable coronary syndromes, respectively) compared with bare metal stents (BMS) was associated with a 29% reduction in the rate of all‐cause mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and ischaemia‐driven target lesion revascularization (ID‐TLR) at 1 year. The results at 2 years are reported here.

Methods and Results

We randomly assigned 1,200 patients (596[50%] to the DES group and 604[50%] to the BMS group). At 2 years, the composite endpoint of all‐cause mortality, MI, stroke and ID‐TLR had occurred in 116 (20%) patients in the DES group and 131 (22%) patients in the BMS group (RR 0.90 [95%CI 0.72–1.13], p = .37). IDTLR occurred in 14 (2%) patients in the DES group and 41 (7%) patients in the BMS group (RR 0.35 [95%CI 0.16–0.60], p = .0002). Major bleedings (BARC 3–5) occurred in 27(5%) patients in both groups (RR 1.00, [95%CI 0.58–1.75], p = .99). Stent thrombosis rates were low and similar between DES and BMS (0.8 vs 1.3%, (RR 0.52 [95%CI 0.01–1.95], p = .27).

Conclusion

Among elderly PCI patients, a strategy combining a DES together with a short duration of DAPT is associated with a reduction in revascularization up to 2 years compared with BMS with very few late events and without any increased in bleeding complications or stent thrombosis.
Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor treatment and the risk of bullous pemphigoid and skin‐related adverse events: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yang Wenjia , Cai Xiaoling , Zhang Simin , Han Xueyao , Ji Linong
Published: August 2020

Aims

This meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the risk of developing bullous pemphigoid (BP) and other skin‐related adverse events (AEs) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) undergoing dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP‐4i) treatment in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

In this meta‐analysis, the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for RCTs, which involve patients with T2DM reporting skin‐related AEs. RCTs that comparatively evaluated the effects of DPP‐4i treatment and placebo on patients with T2DM and reported skin‐related AEs were included in the analysis. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using the Peto's methods. The GRADE approach was used to rate the quality of evidence.

Results

A total of 46 randomized placebo‐controlled trials, including 3 trials with reports of BP (n = 38 011), that reported skin‐related AEs were included (n = 59 332). Compared to the placebo group, the risk of developing BP was significantly higher in the DPP‐4i treatment group (OR = 7.38, 95% CI 2.00‐27.25, I2 = 0%, P = .003; quality rating: very low). Additionally, DPP‐4i treatment was associated with an increased overall risk of developing skin‐related AEs (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.02‐1.46, I2 = 32%, P = .03; quality rating: moderate).

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggested that treatment with DPP‐4is, including sitagliptin, saxagliptin, and linagliptin, was associated with an increased risk of developing BP. Additionally, the risk of developing skin‐related AEs increased when all DPP‐4is were combined. Skin lesion, especially BP, should be monitored in patients with diabetes undergoing DPP‐4i treatment. Future studies should evaluate the susceptible population and develop strategies for early detection of skin‐related AEs.
Assessment of systemic genetic damage in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Baig Ayesha , Avlasevich Svetlana L. , Torous Dorothea K. , Bemis Jeffrey C. , Saubermann Lawrence J. , Lovell David P. , MacGregor James T. , Dertinger Stephen D.
Published: August 2020

The etiology of distal site cancers in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is not well understood and requires further study. We investigated whether pediatric IBD patients' blood cells exhibit elevated levels of genomic damage by measuring the frequency of mutant phenotype (CD59‐/CD55‐) reticulocytes (MUT RET) as a reporter of PIG‐A mutation, and the frequency of micronucleated reticulocytes (MN‐RET) as an indicator of chromosomal damage. IBD patients (n = 18 new‐onset disease, 46 established disease) were compared to age‐matched controls (constipation or irritable bowel syndrome patients from the same clinic, n = 30) and young healthy adults age 19–24 (n = 25). IBD patients showed no indication of elevated MUT RET relative to controls (mean ± SD = 3.1 ± 2.3 × 10−6 vs. 3.6 ± 5.6 x 10−6, respectively). In contrast, 59 IBD patients where %MN‐RET measurements were obtained, 10 exceeded the upper bound 90% tolerance interval derived from control subjects (i.e., 0.42%). Furthermore, each of the 10 IBD patients with elevated MN‐RET had established disease (10/42), none were new‐onset (0/17) (p = .049). Interestingly, each of the subjects with increased chromosomal damage was receiving anti‐TNF based monotherapy at the time blood was collected (10/10, 100%), whereas this therapy was less common (20/32, 63%) among patients that exhibited ≤0.42% MN‐RET (p = .040). The results clearly indicate the need for further work to understand whether the results presented herein are reproducible and if so, to elucidate the causative factor(s) responsible for elevated MN‐RET frequencies in some IBD patients.
Upcycling of polyethylene terephthalate plastic waste to microporous carbon structure for energy storage
Authors: Mirjalili Arash , Dong Bo , Pena Pedro , Ozkan Cengiz S. , Ozkan Mihrimah
Published: August 2020

Plastic pollution and its harmful effects on the earth ecosystem, which inevitably affect quality of life, have brought attention to the frontiers of research society. Among plastics, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is used on a massive scale in various sectors of industry, including the automobile, textile, and packaging. Utilizing an electrospinning fiber production technique, we have successfully upcycled PET waste bottle into electrochemical active carbon material that functions as a double‐layer supercapacitor substance. Our detailed electrochemical and analytical characterization revealed that the generated carbon substance is a mixture of amorphous carbon and reduced graphene oxide with relatively high surface area. The electrochemical characterization of the as‐prepared material consisting of cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic cycling with potential limitations, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analyses revealed that the generated medium has combined characteristics of both double‐layer and redox reaction pseudo‐capacitance with self‐strengthening effect along cycling. We believe that the proposed process is scalable with environmental and economic advantages and this study could present opportunities for future research and development.
Mast Cells Induce Ductular Reaction Mimicking Liver Injury in Mice Through Mast Cell–Derived Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 Signaling: [RETRACTED]
Authors: Kyritsi Konstantina , Kennedy Lindsey , Meadows Vik , Hargrove Laura , Demieville Jennifer , Pham Linh , Sybenga Amelia , Kundu Debjyoti , Cerritos Karla , Meng Fanyin , Alpini Gianfranco , Francis Heather
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims

Following liver injury, mast cells (MCs) migrate into the liver and are activated in patients with cholestasis. Inhibition of MC mediators decreases ductular reaction (DR) and liver fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1) contributes to fibrosis and promotes liver disease. Our aim was to demonstrate that reintroduction of MCs induces cholestatic injury through TGF‐β1.

Approach and Results

Wild‐type, KitW‐sh
(MC‐deficient), and multidrug resistance transporter 2/ABC transporter B family member 2 knockout mice lacking l‐histidine decarboxylase were injected with vehicle or PKH26‐tagged murine MCs pretreated with 0.01% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or the TGF‐β1 receptor inhibitor (TGF‐βRi), LY2109761 (10 μM) 3 days before sacrifice. Hepatic damage was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and serum chemistry. Injected MCs were detected in liver, spleen, and lung by immunofluorescence (IF). DR was measured by cytokeratin 19 (CK‐19) immunohistochemistry and F4/80 staining coupled with real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐33, and F4/80; biliary senescence was evaluated by IF or qPCR for p16, p18, and p21. Fibrosis was evaluated by sirius red/fast green staining and IF for synaptophysin 9 (SYP‐9), desmin, and alpha smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA). TGF‐β1 secretion/expression was measured by enzyme immunoassay and qPCR. Angiogenesis was detected by IF for von Willebrand factor and vascular endothelial growth factor C qPCR. In vitro, MC‐TGF‐β1 expression/secretion were measured after TGF‐βRi treatment; conditioned medium was collected. Cholangiocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were treated with MC‐conditioned medium, and biliary proliferation/senescence was measured by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium and qPCR; HSC activation evaluated for α‐SMA, SYP‐9, and collagen type‐1a expression. MC injection recapitulates cholestatic liver injury characterized by increased DR, fibrosis/TGF‐β1 secretion, and angiogenesis. Injection of MC‐TGF‐βRi reversed these parameters. In vitro, MCs induce biliary proliferation/senescence and HSC activation that was reversed with MCs lacking TGF‐β1.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that reintroduction of MCs mimics cholestatic liver injury and that MC‐derived TGF‐β1 may be a target in chronic cholestatic liver disease.
Tacrolimus Impairs Kupffer Cell Capacity to Control Bacteremia: Why Transplant Recipients Are Susceptible to Infection
Authors: Deppermann Carsten , Peiseler Moritz , Zindel Joel , Zbytnuik Lori , Lee Woo‐Yong , Pasini Elisa , Baciu Cristina , Matelski John , Lee Yun , Kumar Deepali , Humar Atul , Surewaard Bas , Kubes Paul , Bhat Mamatha
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims

Kupffer cells (KCs) are the resident intravascular phagocyte population of the liver and critical to the capture and killing of bacteria. Calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) inhibitors (CNIs) such as tacrolimus are used to prevent rejection in solid organ transplant recipients. Although their effect on lymphocytes has been studied extensively, there are limited experimental data about if and how CNIs shape innate immunity, and whether this contributes to the higher rates of infection observed in patients taking CNIs.

Approach and Results

Here, we investigated the impact of tacrolimus treatment on innate immunity and, more specifically, on the capability of Kupffer cells (KCs) to fight infections. Retrospective analysis of data of >2,700 liver transplant recipients showed that taking calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus significantly increased the likelihood of Staphylococcus aureus infection. Using a mouse model of acute methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteremia, most bacteria were sequestered in the liver and we found that bacteria were more likely to disseminate and kill the host in tacrolimus‐treated mice. Using imaging, we unveiled the mechanism underlying this observation: the reduced capability of KCs to capture, phagocytose, and destroy bacteria in tacrolimus‐treated animals. Furthermore, in a gene expression analysis of infected KCs, the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM1) pathway was the one with the most significant down‐regulation after tacrolimus treatment. TREM1 inhibition likewise inhibited KC bacteria capture. TREM1 levels on neutrophils as well as the overall neutrophil response after infection were unaffected by tacrolimus treatment.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that tacrolimus treatment has a significant impact directly on KCs and on TREM1, thereby compromising their capacity to fend off infections.
High‐efficiency methane capture by living fungi and dried fungal hyphae (necromass)
Authors: Liew Feng Jin , Schilling Jonathan S.
Published: August 2020

Fungi can hasten microbial degradation of hydrophobic compounds by enhancing capture and dissolution into biofilms. For methane (CH4) released from natural soils and agricultural systems, prokaryotes are ultimately responsible for oxidation and degradation; however, in many cases Henry's law of gas dissolution, not oxidation, is rate‐limiting. Given that fungi can improve capture and bioremediation of other hydrophobic compounds (e.g., toluene), we tested fungi for CH4 capture. We used a batch system of CH4–flooded vials to screen candidate fungi. We found 79% removal efficiency by Ganoderma lucidum relative to activated carbon. In a follow‐up, we found comparable efficiency in other Ganoderma species (G. applanatum, G. meredithae). However, these efficiency gains by Ganoderma species could not be sustained when inoculated wood substrates were placed in “live” soils. Substrates colonized naturally, without preinoculations, performed similarly to those deployed with (native) test strains, likely because inoculated fungi were outcompeted and displaced by native colonizers. Instead of rescreening using more combative fungi, we tested an alternative way to present fungi with high single‐strain efficiencies for filtration: in dried form as dead biomass (necromass). In dried biomass trials, dried G. lucidum biomass performed better than when testing living biomass, again with the highest strain‐specific removal efficiencies (84% of activated carbon). These results demonstrate the potential for G. lucidum, commonly used in biomaterial production, in a variety of indoor and outdoor biofiltration scenarios. It also implies an overlooked, potentially large role for fungi and their soil necromass in capturing and reducing CH4 emissions from soils in nature.
Increased protein propionylation contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction in liver cells and fibroblasts, but not in myotubes
Authors: Lagerwaard Bart , Pougovkina Olga , Bekebrede Anna F. , te Brinke Heleen , Wanders Ronald J.A. , Nieuwenhuizen Arie G. , Keijer Jaap , de Boer Vincent C. J.
Published: August 2020

Post‐translational protein modifications derived from metabolic intermediates, such as acyl‐CoAs, have been shown to regulate mitochondrial function. Patients with a genetic defect in the propionyl‐CoA carboxylase (PCC) gene clinically present symptoms related to mitochondrial disorders and are characterised by decreased mitochondrial respiration. Since propionyl‐CoA accumulates in PCC deficient patients and protein propionylation can be driven by the level of propionyl‐CoA, we hypothesised that protein propionylation could play a role in the pathology of the disease. Indeed, we identified increased protein propionylation due to pathologic propionyl‐CoA accumulation in patient‐derived fibroblasts and this was accompanied by defective mitochondrial respiration, as was shown by a decrease in complex I‐driven respiration. To mimic pathological protein propionylation levels, we exposed cultured fibroblasts, Fao liver cells and C2C12 muscle myotubes to propionate levels that are typically found in these patients. This induced a global increase in protein propionylation and histone protein propionylation and was also accompanied by a decrease in mitochondrial respiration in liver and fibroblasts. However, in C2C12 myotubes propionate exposure did not decrease mitochondrial respiration, possibly due to differences in propionyl‐CoA metabolism as compared to the liver. Therefore, protein propionylation could contribute to the pathology in these patients, especially in the liver, and could therefore be an interesting target to pursue in the treatment of this metabolic disease.
Deforming to Best Practice: Key considerations for deformable image registration in radiotherapy
Authors: Barber Jeffrey , Yuen Johnson , Jameson Michael , Schmidt Laurel , Sykes Jonathan , Gray Alison , Hardcastle Nicholas , Choong Callie , Poder Joel , Walker Amy , Yeo Adam , Archibald‐Heeren Ben , Harrison Kristie , Haworth Annette , Thwaites David
Published: August 2020

Image registration is a process that underlies many new techniques in radiation oncology – from multimodal imaging and contour propagation in treatment planning to dose accumulation throughout treatment. Deformable image registration (DIR) is a subset of image registration subject to high levels of complexity in process and validation. A need for local guidance to assist in high‐quality utilisation and best practice was identified within the Australian community, leading to collaborative activity and workshops. This report communicates the current limitations and best practice advice from early adopters to help guide those implementing DIR in the clinic at this early stage. They are based on the state of image registration applications in radiotherapy in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), and consensus discussions made at the ‘Deforming to Best Practice’ workshops in 2018. The current status of clinical application use cases is presented, including multimodal imaging, automatic segmentation, adaptive radiotherapy, retreatment, dose accumulation and response assessment, along with uptake, accuracy and limitations. Key areas of concern and preliminary suggestions for commissioning, quality assurance, education and training, and the use of automation are also reported. Many questions remain, and the radiotherapy community will benefit from continued research in this area. However, DIR is available to clinics and this report is intended to aid departments using or about to use DIR tools now.
De Novo Development of Distal Jejunal and Duodenal Adenomas After 41 Months of Teduglutide Treatment in a Patient With Short‐Bowel Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Pevny Sophie , Pape Ulrich‐Frank , Elezkurtaj Sefer , Rieger Anja , Jürgensen Christian , Blüthner Elisabeth , Jochum Christoph , Tacke Frank , Maasberg Sebastian
Published: August 2020

The glucagon‐like peptide‐2 (GLP‐2) analogue teduglutide is a medical treatment option for patients with short‐bowel syndrome–associated chronic intestinal failure. Because studies in mice have shown that GLP‐2 analogues may promote the growth of colonic neoplasms, surveillance colonoscopies before and during teduglutide therapy were recommended. The occurrence of small‐intestinal neoplasms has not been reported so far, except for a recent report about de novo development of hamartomatous duodenal polyps. We report a case of de novo development of small‐intestinal premalignant adenomatous polyps in both bulbar duodenum and distal jejunum in a patient treated with teduglutide for 41 months. Therefore, additional endoscopic surveillance of the upper gastrointestinal tract may be advised during teduglutide therapy for early detection and removal of potential small‐bowel adenomas.
Survival of Patients With Short‐Bowel Syndrome on Home Parenteral Nutrition: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Noelting Jessica , Gramlich Leah , Whittaker Scott , Armstrong David , Marliss Errol , Jurewitsch Brian , Raman Matreyi , Duerksen Donald R. , Stevenson Danielle , Lou Wendy , Saha Sudipta , Allard Johane P.
Published: August 2020

Background

Survival of patients with short‐bowel syndrome (SBS) receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN) and associated factors have not been reported recently in North America. The objective of this study was to determine the long‐term survival of adult patients with SBS as the primary indication for HPN and assess factors that may affect survival by using the Canadian HPN Registry.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data extracted from the HPN registry, prior to approval of teduglutide in Canada. Using only incident cases, survival probabilities were estimated by using the Kaplan‐Meier method for both full‐cohort and nonmalignant SBS. Log‐rank test was also used to test the differences in survival distributions between subgroups in the univariate analysis. To identify potential variables that are affecting survival distribution of patients for the multivariable analysis, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator and stepwise selection procedure were used.

Results

There were 321 patients with a known duration receiving HPN (total, 2287 years), of whom 218 were entered into the registry within 1 year of initiation of HPN. Of 218 incident cases, 22 had active malignancy, along with SBS, and their survival time was significantly lower than those with nonmalignant SBS (P‐value < .0001). The 5‐year survival of nonmalignant‐SBS patients was 81.9%. In this subgroup, there was no significant association between patients’ survival and known intestinal anatomy, age, or sex.

Conclusion

Patients with nonmalignant SBS who receive HPN have a 5‐year survival of >80%. Known intestinal anatomical factors did not affect survival.
Preparation and tribological properties of eco‐friendly as‐exfoliated graphene in grease
Authors: Kong Ying‐Chao , Liu Zan , Cheng Zhi‐Lin
Published: August 2020

The exfoliation for few layers of graphene was prospective for scale output due to low cost and processable advantages. However, the massive production had some obstacles such as high pollution with organics and harmful elements and use of rare metal. Herein, we developed a facile and eco‐friendly expansion‐reduction exfoliation method to prepare graphene from graphene oxide (GO) with aid of oxalic acid(H2C2O4). The as‐exfoliated graphene nanosheets possessed a 10‐layered thickness and large lateral size of approximately 0.5 μm. As a prospective application, the as‐exfoliated graphene nanosheets were conducted as additive in the grease for the sake of antifriction and antiwear. The results showed that the friction reduction and wear resistant properties were improved by 35.8% and 32.8%, respectively. The friction reducing mechanism of graphene in grease was proposed due to forming a protective film.
Barriers to addressing mental health issues in childbearing women in Ghana
Authors: Adjorlolo Samuel , Aziato Lydia
Published: August 2020

Aim

The aim of the study is to investigate factors hampering the provision of mental health services by nurses and midwives to childbearing women to assist in the prioritization and distribution of limited mental health resources.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional self‐report study.

Methods

Data collected from 309 nurses and midwives were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistic, namely chi‐square and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

The barriers reported by the participants include unavailability of mental health services (77%), lack of knowledge of mental health in women from different tribes (75.7%), lack of a clear mental healthcare pathway (75.1%), heavy workload (74.1%) and lack of knowledge of mental health issue (74.1%). These barriers are less likely to be reported by participants who are males, old and who have practiced for a long time.

Conclusions

Systematic effort to restructure the healthcare delivery system, including equipping healthcare professionals with requisite knowledge, skills and competencies in maternal mental health, is highly recommended.
OFET chemical sensors: Chemical sensors based on ultrathin organic field‐effect transistors
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang Junyao , Zhang Shiqi , Huang Jia
Published: August 2020

In the past decades, a variety of organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) based sensors have been reported, holding great promise in physical sensing, chemical sensing, biosensing, medical sensing and functionalized integrated sensor arrays, thanks to the superiorities of OFETs, including fabrication versatility and high sensitivity to external stimulus. However, the sensing performance still needs to be enhanced to meet practical application requirements, especially high sensitivity and short response time. Among all the effective strategies, ultrathin organic semiconductor (OSC) film devices show significantly promoted sensing performance, and the fabrication methods to obtain these ultrathin OSC films are of importance and diversity. Here, a brief review focused on ultrathin (including molecular monolayer) OSC film fabrication methods is presented, including high‐vacuum thermal evaporation, solution‐processable methods, and the approach of combining ultrathin films with heterojunctions. Additionally, applications of ultrathin OFET‐based chemical and biological sensors are summarized. Finally, the outlook and challenges ahead are discussed. We hope this review can offer guidance for the fabrication methods and potential applications of ultrathin OFET‐based chemical and biological sensors in the future. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Respiratory syncytial virus seropositivity at birth is associated with adverse neonatal respiratory outcomes
Authors: Manti Sara , Esper Frank , Alejandro‐Rodriguez Marilyn , Leonardi Salvatore , Betta Pasqua , Cuppari Caterina , Lanzafame Angela , Worley Sarah , Salpietro Carmelo , Perez Miriam K. , Rezaee Fariba , Piedimonte Giovanni
Published: August 2020

Background

More than 60 years since the discovery of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the effects of prenatal exposure to this virus remain largely unknown. In this investigation, we sought to find evidence of RSV seroconversion in cord blood and explore its clinical implications for the newborn.

Methods

Offspring from 22 pregnant women with a history of viral respiratory infection during the third trimester of pregnancy (respiratory viral illness [RVI] group) and 40 controls were enrolled in this study between 1 September 2016 and 31 March 2019. Cord blood sera were tested for anti‐RSV antibodies by indirect fluorescent antibody assay. RSV seropositivity was defined as the presence of anti‐RSV immunoglobulin M (IgM) or immunoglobulin A (IgA), in addition to IgG in cord blood serum at ≥1:20 dilution.

Results

Anti‐RSV IgG was present in all cord blood serum samples from infants born to RVI mothers (95% confidence interval [CI] = 82%‐100%), with 16 samples also having elevated titers for either anti‐RSV IgA or IgM (73%; 95% CI = 52%‐87%). No controls had evidence of anti‐RSV antibodies. Eight (50%) seropositive newborns developed at least one respiratory tract finding, including respiratory distress syndrome (N = 8), respiratory failure (N = 3), and pneumonia (N = 1). RSV seropositive newborns also required more days on oxygen, had leukocytosis and elevated C‐reactive protein (P = .025, P = .047, and P < .001, respectively).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of acute seropositivity against RSV in cord blood of newborns delivered from mothers with a history of upper respiratory tract illness in the third trimester. Cord blood seropositivity for anti‐RSV IgA or IgM was associated with adverse clinical and laboratory outcomes in newborns.
Airway manifestations of sarcoidosis in adolescents
Authors: Obsekov Vladislav , Chen Linda , Pirzada Melodi , Giusti Robert , Kazachkov Mikhail
Published: August 2020

Endobronchial sarcoid lesions have previously been described and visualized upon bronchoscopy in adult patients with pulmonary sarcoid involvement. Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial fine‐needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) has come into favor as the preferred method of diagnosis, but it remains a novel technique in pediatric pulmonology. We describe the first two known cases of visualized endobronchial sarcoid lesions in the pediatric population with pathological confirmation of sarcoidosis with endobronchial and EBUS‐TBNA biopsies.
Liberation and mortality outcomes in pediatric long‐term ventilation: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Foy Candice M. , Koncicki Monica L. , Edwards Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2020

Objective

To provide a systematic review of liberation from positive pressure ventilation and mortality of children with chronic respiratory failure who used long‐term invasive and noninvasive ventilation (LTV).

Methods

Papers published from 1980 to 2018 were identified using Pubmed MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Search results were limited to English‐language papers with (a) patients less than 22 years at initiation, (b) patients who used invasive ventilation (IV) via tracheostomy or noninvasive ventilation (NIV), and (c) data on mortality or liberation from LTV. Data were presented using descriptive statistics; changes in outcomes over time were explored using linear regression. Follow‐up variability, cohort heterogeneity, and insufficient data precluded combining data to estimate incidences or rates.

Results

One hundred and thirty papers with 12 704 patients were included. The median number of patients was 37 (interquartile range [IQR] 17‐74, range 6‐3802). Twenty‐five percent of patients were initiated on IV; 75% on NIV. The maximum follow‐up ranged from 0.5 to 31.8 years (median 8.8 years). The median proportion of patients liberated in these papers was 3% (IQR 0%‐21%). The median proportion of mortality was 18% (IQR 8%‐27%). Proportions of liberation and mortality did not significantly change over time. Progression of underlying disease (44%), respiratory illness (19%), and LTV accident (11%) were the most common causes of death.

Conclusions

These papers collectively show most patients survive for many years using LTV; in many subgroups, death is a more common outcome than liberation. However, the limitations of these papers preclude robust prognostication.
CoMn‐Spinel Oxides as Supported Catalyst for Rocket‐Grade Hydrogen Peroxide Decomposition
Authors: Ferroni Pereira Luís Gustavo , Maschio Leandro José , Péres de Araújo Emmanuel , Henrique Gouvêa Leonardo , Vieira Ricardo
Published: August 2020

This work presents the application of a cobalt and manganese mixed oxides‐based catalyst with spinel structure to the decomposition of the storable green monopropellant H2O2 90 wt%. The 5.4 % Co0.5Mn2.5O4/Al2O3 catalyst was tested in a series of continuous and pulsed 2 N thruster firings, yielding a fast and repetitive performance, spontaneously and completely decomposing H2O2 90 wt% without undergoing deactivation or fragmentation during the tests. A specific impulse of 104 s and a characteristic velocity of 881 m/s were reached, so that the characteristic velocity efficiency amounted to 93.7 %. The adiabatic decomposition temperature of the monopropellant (756 °C) was also reached, thus evidencing the effectiveness of the 5.4 % Co0.5Mn2.5O4/Al2O3 catalyst. Its excellent activity in the decomposition of H2O2 90 wt% was attributed to the presence of the redox pairs Mn2+/Mn3+ and Co2+/Co3+, therefore making it a feasible material for low and medium thrust propulsive systems.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of stilbene‐based peptoid mimics against the phytopathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas citri pv. citri
Authors: Li Yan , Lin Xingdong , Hu Jianqing , Shuai Jianbo , Wei Yinan , He Daohang
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The emergence of drug‐resistant phytopathogenic bacteria and the need for new types of biological disease‐control agents have accelerated efforts toward searching for alternative candidates with a low propensity for resistance development. In this study, a new series of stilbene‐based peptoid mimics were synthesized, and their biological activities were evaluated against citrus pathogenic bacteria in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Antibacterial bioassay results showed that the dicationic peptoid mimics 9a and 9b displayed excellent bioactivity against Xanthomonas citri pv. citri, with the minimum inhibitory concentration values of 25 μM, which were superior to those of commercial copper biocides Delite (200 μM) and Kasumin Bordeaux (100 μM). In vivo bioassay further confirmed their control efficacy against plant bacterial diseases. In addition, the antibacterial mechanism of action elucidated their membrane‐disruption effects resulting in the leakage of the bacterial membranes, which was similar to that of antimicrobial peptides. Moreover, the inhibition effect on biofilm formation of peptoid mimics has also been demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Stilbene‐based peptoid mimics synthesized in this study showed promising antibacterial activity with a potent membrane‐disruptive mechanism. The results suggested that stilbene‐based peptoid mimics have the potential as a candidate new type of bactericide for citrus disease protection.
Reticine A, a new potent natural elicitor: isolation from the fruit peel of Citrus reticulate and induction of systemic resistance against tobacco mosaic virus and other plant fungal diseases
Authors: Wang Delong , Liu Bin , Ma Zhiqing , Feng Juntao , Yan He
Published: August 2020

Background

Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) induced by elicitors is a highly satisfying form of resistance that protects plants against invading pathogens. Exploration and development of new elicitors is a promising alternative to conventional biocides in resistant pest management. In our previous broad screening, fruit peel extract of Citrus reticulata Blanco exhibited the ability to induce SAR in tobacco.

Result

A new potent elicitor reticine A was isolated from the fruit peel extract of industrial crop C. reticulate and its structure was well elucidated. In vivo assays showed that reticine A had considerable control efficacies at 100 and 500 μg mL−1, being superior to commercial elicitor benzothiadiazole (BTH) (100 μg mL−1). Reticine A had no significant impact on the virulence of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) particles under in vitro conditions. Application of reticine A induced a local hypersensitive reaction (HR), systemic accumulation of H2O2 and salicylic acid (SA), systemic increase in defensive enzyme activities and systemic upregulated expression of pathogenesis‐related (PR) proteins, suggesting its induction of SAR in tobacco. The expression of NPR1 and SA biosynthesis genes ICS and PAL were systemically upregulated.

Conclusion

SAR induced by reticine A against TMV in tobacco was demonstrated and the mechanism might be attributed to activating the expression of several defensive genes mediated by an SA signal. This study highlights the potential of reticine A which is recommended to be applied directly or as an active ingredient in the crude extract formulation ahead of time in the field, as well as being a potential lead compound for further optimization.
Investigation of Trichoderma species colonization of nursery grapevines for improved management of black foot disease
Authors: van Jaarsveld Wynand J , Halleen Francois , Bester Michael C , Pierron Romain JG , Stempien Elodie , Mostert Lizel
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Black foot disease (BFD) is one of the main fungal diseases associated with young grapevine decline. Trichoderma holds the potential to be used as biocontrol agent against this disease, though variable success of colonization were found when applied to nursery vines in previous studies. Therefore, field experiments were established to evaluate different methods of application of Trichoderma atroviride, and to evaluate the efficacy of different commercial Trichoderma products on BFD in nursery vines post callusing over two seasons.

RESULTS

Only in one season of the trial evaluating different products did all of the Trichoderma treatments significantly lower the black foot infections in the rootstock bases of the vines (mean black foot pathogen incidence of 1.00 to 2.50% in Trichoderma treated vines versus 6.50% in the untreated control). When comparing tissue parts, the base of the vine and collar roots had significantly higher Trichoderma colonization than the middle and root tip parts. Significantly less BFD pathogens were isolated from the base in comparison to the roots. These colonization trends were found for both field trials over both seasons. The different application methods showed that dipping of basal ends in the dry formulation followed by monthly soil drenches consistently gave higher colonization [mean Trichoderma incidence in the bases were 39.20% (2016/2017) and 28.00% (2017/2018)], while the 1 h soak of the bases of vines was not effective [mean Trichoderma incidence in the bases were 8.80% (2016/2017) and 4.00% (2017/2018)] and did not differ from the untreated control.

CONCLUSION

Even though Trichoderma spp. were not sufficient to prevent infections by BFD pathogens, a certain degree of protection was obtained in the basal ends, which may contribute to longevity of the vines once planted in the vineyard.