bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2D Nanoarchitectonics: Soft Interfacial Media as Playgrounds for Microobjects, Molecular Machines, and Living Cells
Authors: Ariga Katsuhiko , Ishii Masaki , Mori Taizo
Published: March 2020

Soft and flexible two‐dimensional (2D) systems, such as liquid interfaces, would have much more potentials in dynamic regulation on nano–macro connected functions. In this Minireview article, we focus especially on dynamic motional functions at liquid dynamic interfaces as 2D material systems. Several recent examples are selected to be explained for overviewing features and importance of dynamic soft interfaces in a wide range of action systems. The exemplified research systems are mainly classified into three categories: (i) control of microobjects with motional regulations; (ii) control of molecular machines with functions of target discrimination and optical outputs; (iii) control of living cells including molecular machine functions at cell membranes and cell/biomolecular behaviors at liquid interface. Sciences on soft 2D media with motional freedom and their nanoarchitectonics constructions will have increased importance in future technology in addition to popular rigid solid 2D materials.
Multi‐Stage Redox Systems Based on Dicationic P‐Containing Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Delouche Thomas , Vacher Antoine , Caytan Elsa , Roisnel Thierry , Le Guennic Boris , Jacquemin Denis , Hissler Muriel , Bouit Pierre‐Antoine
Published: March 2020

We report the straightforward synthesis of unprecedented electron‐acceptors based on dicationic P‐containing PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) based on copper mediated radical approach. In these systems, two phosphoniums are connected through various PAHs backbones. The impact of π‐extension on both the optical and redox properties is investigated using a joint experimental (UV/Vis absorption, fluorescence and cyclic voltammetry) and theoretical approach (TD‐DFT calculations). Finally, (spectro)‐electrochemical studies prove that these compounds possess three redox states and EPR studies confirm the in situ formation of an organic radical delocalized on the PAH backbone.
Concept for a Hydrometallurgical Processing of a Copper‐Cobalt‐Nickel Alloy Made from Manganese Nodules
Authors: Keber Sebastian , Brückner Lisa , Elwert Tobias , Kuhn Thomas
Published: March 2020

The processing of manganese nodules for the production of raw materials has been a subject of research for many decades. The nodules contain many valuable metals like copper, cobalt and nickel. In recent years, the German Federal Institute for Geoscience and Natural Resources developed a process for the processing of manganese nodules based on a combined pyro‐ and a hydrometallurgical route. Clausthal University of Technology was assigned to develop the hydrometallurgical process for the treatment of a FeNiCuCo alloy. The developed process consists of pressurized sulfuric acid leaching with the suppression of hydrogen gas formation, precipitation and solvent extraction.
Modelling of nanometer scale dust grains in tokamak
Authors: Liu Zhuang , Xiao Xiaotao , Xu Xueqiao , Li Nami , Tang Tengfei , Wang Dezhen
Published: March 2020

Dust poses a serious threat to tokamak operation and safety. It is important to study the behaviour of dust grains under tokamak's discharge conditions, which depends heavily on their size and charge. Existing simulations mainly address issues on dust grains with radii larger than 1 μm, in which case, the drift effect due to electromagnetic fields can be safely ignored. For nanometer scale dust grains, however, the drift effect becomes significant and a new model based on guiding‐centre system needs to be established. In this work, the NDS has been done under BOUT++ framework. The simulation contains two parts. Part one, NDS evaluates the charging and ablation processes of the dust grains. In the second part, the guiding‐centre orbits of dust particles are tracked in tokamak plasmas, whose parameters are obtained from BOUT++, a highly desirable C++ code package for performing parallel plasma fluid simulations with an arbitrary number of equations in 3D curvilinear coordinates. The orbit of nanodust dynamics is described by guiding centre equations for simplicity, and these equations are numerically solved by conventional fourth‐order Runge Kutta method. Simulations provide results such as trajectories and evolutions of dust particles with different sizes and velocities for different tokamak geometries. Results show tungsten dust grains with a radius of a few nanometers launched from outer midplane will oscillate before totally ablated in C‐Mod. The oscillation in this case is driven by the ion drag force. Larger Nanodust with a radius of 100 nm, on the contrary, cannot be completely constrained by the electromagnetic field. The high plasma temperature and density in the seperatrix region causes severe dust ablation, resulting in total ablation within several
ms.
Ecological prediction at macroscales using big data: Does sampling design matter?
Authors: Soranno Patricia A. , Cheruvelil Kendra Spence , Liu Boyang , Wang Qi , Tan Pang‐Ning , Zhou Jiayu , King Katelyn B. S. , McCullough Ian M. , Stachelek Jemma , Bartley Meridith , Filstrup Christopher T. , Hanks Ephraim M. , Lapierre Jean‐François , Lottig Noah R. , Schliep Erin M. , Wagner Tyler , Webster Katherine E.
Published: March 2020

Although ecosystems respond to global change at regional to continental scales (i.e., macroscales), model predictions of ecosystem responses often rely on data from targeted monitoring of a small proportion of sampled ecosystems within a particular geographic area. In this study, we examined how the sampling strategy used to collect data for such models influences predictive performance. We subsampled a large and spatially extensive data set to investigate how macroscale sampling strategy affects prediction of ecosystem characteristics in 6,784 lakes across a 1.8‐million‐km2 area. We estimated model predictive performance for different subsets of the data set to mimic three common sampling strategies for collecting observations of ecosystem characteristics: random sampling design, stratified random sampling design, and targeted sampling. We found that sampling strategy influenced model predictive performance such that (1) stratified random sampling designs did not improve predictive performance compared to simple random sampling designs and (2) although one of the scenarios that mimicked targeted (non‐random) sampling had the poorest performing predictive models, the other targeted sampling scenarios resulted in models with similar predictive performance to that of the random sampling scenarios. Our results suggest that although potential biases in data sets from some forms of targeted sampling may limit predictive performance, compiling existing spatially extensive data sets can result in models with good predictive performance that may inform a wide range of science questions and policy goals related to global change.
Peer mentorship as an adjunct intervention for the treatment of eating disorders: A pilot randomized trial
Authors: Ranzenhofer Lisa M. , Wilhelmy Mylene , Hochschild Annabella , Sanzone Kaitlin , Walsh B. Timothy , Attia Evelyn
Published: March 2020

Objective

Peer mentorship has been shown to be helpful for other mental health conditions, but it has been understudied for patients with eating disorders. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of peer mentorship for individuals with eating disorders by conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Trial Design

Parallel three‐arm pilot RCT with 1:1:1 allocation to peer mentorship, social support mentorship (active comparison intervention), and waiting list.

Method

Sixty outpatients with anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), or binge‐eating disorder (BED) were randomly assigned to a condition. Outcome measures, including eating disorder symptoms and general psychopathology, were completed at baseline, mid‐, and postintervention.

Results

Session attendance and acceptability ratings were higher in peer mentorship than social support mentorship. More participants in social support mentorship (39%) dropped out compared to peer mentorship (5%). In intent‐to‐treat analysis, peer mentorship showed greater reductions in body dissatisfaction and anxiety compared with both control groups. Compared with social support mentorship, peer mentorship had greater reductions in depression. Compared with waiting list, peer mentorship had greater reduction in binge eating days/week in patients with BN/BED and restriction days/week in patients with AN. Peer mentorship did not impact body mass index or reentry into higher level of care.

Discussion

This pilot RCT provides preliminary evidence that peer mentorship is effective for some cognitive and behavioral symptoms of eating disorders as an adjunct to outpatient treatment. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of peer mentorship in absence of treatment.
Variation in behavioral traits of two frugivorous mammals may lead to differential responses to human disturbance
Authors: Tédonzong Luc Roscelin Dongmo , Willie Jacob , Makengveu Sandra Tewamba , Lens Luc , Tagg Nikki
Published: March 2020

Human activities can lead to a shift in wildlife species’ spatial distribution. Understanding the specific effects of human activities on ranging behavior can improve conservation management of wildlife populations in human‐dominated landscapes. This study evaluated the effects of forest use by humans on the spatial distribution of mammal species with different behavioral adaptations, using sympatric western lowland gorilla and central chimpanzee as focal species. We collected data on great ape nest locations, ecological and physical variables (habitat distribution, permanent rivers, and topographic data), and anthropogenic variables (distance to trails, villages, and a permanent research site). Here, we show that anthropogenic variables are important predictors of the distribution of wild animals. In the resource model, the distribution of gorilla nests was predicted by nesting habitat distribution, while chimpanzee nests were predicted first by elevation followed by nesting habitat distribution. In the anthropogenic model, the major predictors of gorilla nesting changed to human features, while the major predictors of chimpanzee nesting remained elevation and the availability of their preferred nesting habitats. Animal behavioral traits (body size, terrestrial/arboreal, level of specialization/generalization, and competitive inferiority/superiority) may influence the response of mammals to human activities. Our results suggest that chimpanzees may survive in human‐encroached areas whenever the availability of their nesting habitat and preferred fruits can support their population, while a certain level of human activities may threaten gorillas. Consequently, the survival of gorillas in human‐dominated landscapes is more at risk than that of chimpanzees. Replicating our research in other sites should permit a systematic evaluation of the influence of human activity on the distribution of mammal populations. As wild animals are increasingly exposed to human disturbance, understanding the resulting consequences of shifting species distributions due to human disturbance on animal population abundance and their long‐term survival will be of growing conservation importance.
Cardiologists' attitudes on communication about prognosis with heart failure patients
Authors: van der Wal Martje H.L. , Hjelmfors Lisa , Strömberg Anna , Jaarsma Tiny
Published: March 2020

Aim

According to guidelines, a prognosis should be discussed with all heart failure (HF) patients. However, many patients do not have these conversations with a healthcare provider. The aim of this study was to describe attitudes of cardiologists in Sweden and the Netherlands regarding this topic.

Methods and results

A survey was sent to 250 cardiologists in Sweden and the Netherlands with questions whether should the prognosis be discussed, what time should the prognosis be discussed, whom should discuss, what barriers were experienced and how difficult it is to discuss the prognosis (scale from 1–10). A total of 88 cardiologists participated in the study. Most cardiologists (82%) reported to discussing the prognosis with all HF patients; 47% at the time of diagnoses. The patient's own cardiologist, another cardiologist, the HF nurse, or the general practitioner could discuss this with the patient. Important barriers were cognitive problems (69%) and a lack of time (64%). Cardiologists found it not very difficult to discuss the topic (mean score 4.2) with a significant difference between Swedish and Dutch cardiologist (4.7 vs. 3.7; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Most cardiologists found it important to discuss the prognosis with HF patients although there are several barriers. Swedish cardiologists found it more difficult compared with their Dutch colleagues. A multidisciplinary approach seems important for improvement of discussing prognosis with HF patients.
Iron‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 2‐Aminofurans from 2‐Haloketones and Tertiary Amines or Enamines
Authors: Wang Le‐Cheng , Geng Hui‐Qing , Peng Jin‐Bao , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: March 2020

The selective synthesis of heterocycles from readily available substrates and catalyzed by an abundant and environmental benign catalyst continues to be an attractive topic. In this communication, we report an interesting protocol for the synthesis of 2‐aminofurans. Starting from 2‐haloketones and tertiary amines, with abundant iron salt as the catalyst, various 2‐aminofurans were produced in good yields. Control experiments were performed to understand the reaction pathway. Based on the identified reaction pathway, the substrates for this transformation can be extended from tertiary amines to enamines and even with better final yields. Finally, a formal three‐component reaction can also be realized by forming the enamines in‐situ from aldehydes and amines.
Total Synthesis of the Natural Herbicide MBH‐001 and Analogues
Authors: Kuhn Birgit , Barber David M. , Dietrich Hansjörg , Döller Uwe , Hoffmann Michael G. , Schmutzler Dirk , Schnatterer Stefan , Maier Martin E. , Kocakaya Tamer , Morkunas Marius
Published: March 2020

The first total synthesis of the natural herbicide MBH‐001 (1) is reported. Structurally it is a 2‐methyloxazol‐5(2H)‐one with a (1‐hydroxyethyl) substituent at the 2‐position. By relying on cyclic nitrones, a flexible route to MBH‐001 and relevant analogues was developed. Key steps include the reaction of a 2‐hydroxyimino ester with an aldehyde to form a 5‐oxo‐2,5‐dihydrooxazole 3‐oxide. In an aldol‐type reaction, the anion of these cyclic nitrones reacted with an aldehyde at the 2‐position. A final reduction of the nitrone to the corresponding imine using zinc led to the target compounds. The cyclic nitrones are also accessible by reacting an α‐keto acid with an oxime. These two versatile synthetic routes enabled us to prepare the first MBH‐001 analogues for structure activity relationship analysis of the herbicidal efficacy. Thus, furthering our aim of developing new herbicides to tackle the ever‐growing problem of weed resistance.
Extractive production of microbial oil using hydrophobic adsorbents: A comparative study
Authors: Pawar Pratik P. , Vadgama Rajeshkumar N. , Lali Arvind M. , Odaneth Annamma A.
Published: March 2020

Increased demand for vegetable oils has accelerated interest in producing its renewable alternate through microbial route. However, this process still awaits technological advancements to be executed as a commercially feasible operation. The oil productivity in this bioprocess is significantly challenged by the conventional recovery techniques used. To address this problem, we propose an extractive production system using hydrophobic adsorbents as oil capturing agents for simultaneous in situ oil recovery. Three polystyrene and two organo‐silica‐based capturing agents were studied on a “cell mimic system” to attest to an increase in the rate of oil recovery. High sorption capacity demonstrated by SEPABEADS, stalled the oil saturation in the aqueous medium and thereby, enhances the extracellular efflux of the produced oil. The efflux of oil, when matched with the substrate assimilation, allows for an increased production rate of oil. As a result, we observe and report oil production to 80% dry cell weight and volumetric productivity of 0.11 g L−1 hour−1. With SEPABEADS SP70 as an in situ oil capturing agent in the broth, the wild type “Yarrowia lipolytica” cells yield 0.33 goil g−1glucose, allowing us to propose a highly efficient system for extractive production of microbial
oil.
Investigation of structural stability of type IV compressed hydrogen storage tank during refueling of fuel cell vehicle
Authors: Sapre Shitanshu , Pareek Kapil , Vyas Mayank
Published: March 2020

The storage of hydrogen in compressed form has evolved as the primary choice for fuel cell vehicle manufacturers. Currently, composite tanks are a mature and promising option for compressed hydrogen storage for the on‐board application. Type IV tank with carbon fiber/epoxy composite with high density polyethylene liner provides high strength, lightweight, and excellent resistance to fatigue and corrosion. However, high pressure and temperature generated during refueling affect the structural stability of the composite tank. The objective of the work is to investigate the mechanical and thermal response of the tank at different refueling conditions specified in SAEJ2601. For this, finite element analysis was used to examine the stresses, strains, deformation, and failure evolution during refueling. The results show good agreement between simulated and experimental reported burst pressure of the tank with 5.52% difference which might be due to the type of carbon fiber used, fiber winding pattern, number of layers, and loading conditions considered for the analysis. The results presented here show some new insight into behavior of composite tanks under dynamic load conditions of refueling.
Effect of Mandatory 6‐Month Waiting Period on Waitlist and Transplant Outcomes in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Nagai Shunji , Kitajima Toshihiro , Yeddula Sirisha , Salgia Reena , Schilke Randolph , Abouljoud Marwan S. , Moonka Dilip
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims

Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network/United Network for Organ Sharing (OPTN/UNOS) policy mandates a 6‐month waiting period before exception scores are granted to liver transplant candidates with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aims to evaluate waitlist and posttransplant outcomes in patients with HCC, before and after implementation of the 6‐month waiting rule.

Approach and Results

We examined two groups from the UNOS registry: Group 1 (pre‐6‐month rule) consisted of patients registered as transplant candidates with HCC from January 1, 2013, to October 7, 2015 (n = 4,814); group 2 (post‐6‐month rule) consisted of patients registered from October 8, 2015, to June 30, 2018 (n = 3,287). As expected, the transplant probability was higher in the first 6 months after listing in group 1 than group 2 at 42.0% versus 6.3% (P < 0.001). However, the 6‐month waitlist mortality/dropout rate was lower in group 2 at 1.2% than group 1 at 4.1% (P < 0.001). To assess regional parity of transplant, UNOS regions were categorized into three groups based on Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score at transplant: lower‐score (regions 3, 10, and 11), middle‐score (1, 2, 6, 8, and 9), and higher‐score region groups (4, 5, and 7). Outcomes were compared from the time exception points were given, which we defined as conditional waitlist outcomes. Conditional waitlist mortality/dropout decreased, and transplant probability increased in all region groups, but the benefits of the policy were more pronounced in the higher and middle‐score groups, compared with the lower‐score group. The decline in waitlist mortality/dropout was only significant in the high Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease group (P < 0.001). No effect was observed on posttransplant mortality or percent of patients within Milan criteria on explant.

Conclusions

The HCC policy change was associated with decreased waitlist mortality/dropout and increased transplant probability. The policy helped to decrease but did not eliminate regional disparities in transplant opportunity without an effect on posttransplant outcomes.
Interindividual Diversity in Expression of Organic Anion Uptake Transporters in Normal and Cirrhotic Human Liver
Authors: Taniguchi Tatsuya , Zanetti‐Yabur Alana , Wang Pijun , Usyk Mykhaylo , Burk Robert D. , Wolkoff Allan W.
Published: March 2020

The liver plays an essential role in removing endogenous and exogenous compounds from the circulation. This function is mediated by specific transporters, including members of the family of organic anion transport proteins (OATPs) and the Na+‐taurocholate transporting polypeptide (NTCP). In the present study, transporter protein expression was determined in liver samples from patients with cirrhosis or controls without liver disease. Five transporters (OATP1A2, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1, and NTCP) were studied. Transporter content in homogenates of human liver was quantified on western blots probed with transporter‐specific antibodies in which a calibrated green fluorescent protein‐tagged transporter standard was included. Liver samples from 21 patients with cirrhosis (hepatitis C in 17 and alcohol abuse in 4) and 17 controls without liver disease were analyzed. Expression of each of the transporters had a large spread, varying by an order of magnitude in cirrhotic and control livers. OATP1B1 was the most abundant transporter in controls (P < 0.01) but was significantly lower in cirrhotic livers as was NTCP expression (P < 0.01). There was little difference in transporter expression with respect to age or sex. Despite the large variability in transporter expression within a group, analysis in individuals showed that those with high or low expression of one transporter had a similar magnitude in expression of the others. Conclusion: Differences in transporter expression could explain unanticipated heterogeneity of drug transport and metabolism in individuals with and without liver disease.
Adefovir dipivoxil induces DNA replication stress and augments ATR inhibitor‐related cytotoxicity
Authors: Patel Agata , Seraia Elena , Ebner Daniel , Ryan Anderson Joseph
Published: March 2020

Replication stress is a common feature of cancer cells. Ataxia telangiectasia‐mutated (ATM) and Rad3‐related (ATR) signalling, a DNA damage repair (DDR) pathway, is activated by regions of single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA) that can arise during replication stress. ATR delays cell cycle progression and prevents DNA replication fork collapse, which prohibits cell death and promotes proliferation. Several ATR inhibitors have been developed in order to restrain this protective mechanism in tumours. It is known, however, that despite other effective anticancer chemotherapy treatments targeting DDR pathways, resistance occurs. This begets the need to identify combination treatments to overcome resistance and prevent tumour cell growth. We conducted a drug screen to identify potential synergistic combination treatments by screening an ATR inhibitor (VE822) together with compounds from a bioactive small molecule library. The screen identified adefovir dipivoxil, a reverse transcriptase inhibitor and nucleoside analogue, as a compound that has increased cytotoxicity in the presence of ATR, but not ATM or DNA‐dependant protein kinase (DNA‐PK) inhibition. Here we demonstrate that adefovir dipivoxil induces DNA replication stress, activates ATR signalling and stalls cells in S phase. This simultaneous induction of replication stress and inhibition of ATR signalling lead to a marked increase in pan‐nuclear γH2AX‐positive cells, ssDNA accumulation and cell death, indicative of replication catastrophe.
Community education to enhance the more equitable use of precision medicine in Northern Manhattan
Authors: Hillyer Grace C. , Schmitt Karen M. , Reyes Andria , Cruz Alejandro , Lizardo Maria , Schwartz Gary K. , Terry Mary Beth
Published: March 2020

Focusing screening and treatment to those most likely to benefit is the promise of precision medicine but inequitable distribution of precision medicine innovations may exacerbate health disparities. We investigated whether complex genomic concepts can be successfully communicated to diverse populations. Incorporating principles of Community‐based Participatory Research, we created a precision medicine curriculum tailored to the needs of our predominantly Hispanic community. We administered the curriculum over 26 months, assessed pre‐ and post‐test comprehension of 8 genetics‐related terms, and compared comprehension differences based on demography and health literacy. In total, 438 individuals completed pre‐/post‐test assessments. At pre‐test, 45.6% scored ≥75% across eight major constructs; 66.7% at post‐test. Comprehension increased for 7/8 terms with greatest pre/post‐test increases for ‘mutation’ (55% to 78%) and ‘sporadic’ (34% to 59%). Mean pre‐test comprehension scores (≥75%) were lower for Spanish versus. English speakers; mean post‐test scores were equivalent. No heterogeneity by demographics or health literacy was observed. We demonstrate that a brief community educational program can improve knowledge of complex genomic concepts. Interventions to increase understanding of genomic concepts underlying precision medicine are key to patients making informed treatment and prevention decisions and may lead to more equitable uptake of precision medicine initiatives.
LINC00467 enhances head and neck squamous cell carcinoma progression and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process via miR‐299‐5p/ubiquitin specific protease‐48 axis
Authors: Chen Ye , Ding Yiying
Published: March 2020

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has attracted the attention of researchers as a result of its high incidence around the world. This malignancy occurs in the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx in most cases. A number of lncRNAs have been revealed to regulate the malignant neoplasia of several cancers. Nevertheless, the effects of lncRNA LINC00467 in HNSCC have not yet been reported.

Methods

The expression of LINC00467, miR‐299‐5p and ubiquitin specific protease‐48 (USP48) in HNSCC cells was quantified by a quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. The influences of LINC00467 deficiency on HNSCC progression were reflected by cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, ethynyl‐2‐deoxyuridine, wound healing and western blot assays. RIP and luciferase reporter assays were conducted to confirm the interaction among LINC00467, miR‐299‐5p and USP48.

Results

LINC00467 was considerably upregulated in HNSCC cells, and an absence of LINC00467 suppressed cell growth, cell migration and the epithelial–mesenchymal process in HNSCC. In addition, miR‐299‐5p expression was notably downregulated in HNSCC cells, and miR‐299‐5p could bind with LINC00467. Furthermore, USP48 was conspicuously overexpressed in HNSCC cells and capable of binding with miR‐299‐5p. LINC00467 could upregulate USP48 expression via sponging miR‐299‐5p. Finally, rescue assays proved that USP48 overexpression could compensate for the suppressive effects on HNSCC progression mediated by LINC00467 deficiency.

Conclusions

LINC00467 enhances HNSCC progression by serving as a sponge of miR‐299‐5p to increase USP48 expression.
From SARS and MERS CoVs to SARS‐CoV‐2: Moving toward more biased codon usage in viral structural and nonstructural genes
Authors: Kandeel Mahmoud , Ibrahim Abdelazim , Fayez Mahmoud , Al‐Nazawi Mohammed
Published: March 2020

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is an emerging disease with fatal outcomes. In this study, a fundamental knowledge gap question is to be resolved by evaluating the differences in biological and pathogenic aspects of SARS‐CoV‐2 and the changes in SARS‐CoV‐2 in comparison with the two prior major COV epidemics, SARS and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronaviruses.

Methods

The genome composition, nucleotide analysis, codon usage indices, relative synonymous codons usage, and effective number of codons (ENc) were analyzed in the four structural genes; Spike (S), Envelope (E), membrane (M), and Nucleocapsid (N) genes, and two of the most important nonstructural genes comprising RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase and main protease (Mpro) of SARS‐CoV‐2, Beta‐CoV from pangolins, bat SARS, MERS, and SARS CoVs.

Results

SARS‐CoV‐2 prefers pyrimidine rich codons to purines. Most high‐frequency codons were ending with A or T, while the low frequency and rare codons were ending with G or C. SARS‐CoV‐2 structural proteins showed 5 to 20 lower ENc values, compared with SARS, bat SARS, and MERS CoVs. This implies higher codon bias and higher gene expression efficiency of SARS‐CoV‐2 structural proteins. SARS‐CoV‐2 encoded the highest number of over‐biased and negatively biased codons. Pangolin Beta‐CoV showed little differences with SARS‐CoV‐2 ENc values, compared with SARS, bat SARS, and MERS CoV.

Conclusion

Extreme bias and lower ENc values of SARS‐CoV‐2, especially in Spike, Envelope, and Mpro genes, are suggestive for higher gene expression efficiency, compared with SARS, bat SARS, and MERS CoVs.
Interaction of pretilachlor with PS‐II activity of the cyanobacterium Desmonostoc muscorum PUPCCC 405.10
Authors: Swatch Gurdeep Kaur , Singh Davinder Pal , Khattar Jasvirinder Singh , Mohapatra Pradipta Kumar
Published: March 2020

Interaction of pretilachlor with photosystem (PS)‐II of the cyanobacterium Desmonostoc muscorum PUPCCC 405.10 has been studied in this paper. Pretilachlor negatively affected growth, chlorophyll a (Chl a), photosynthesis, and carbon dissimilation in a dose‐dependent manner. Effects were also observed in PSs, especially PS‐II (an 11–35% decrease), as well as the whole photosynthetic electron transport activity. The fluorescence emission spectrum of Chl a revealed a dose‐dependent effect of pretilachlor on both the antenna and the core complex of PSs, with more severe effect on the former. Data of O‐J‐I‐P fluorescence transient of Chl a revealed that pretilachlor interfered with electron flow between QA and QB sites of PS‐II. It was further observed that pretilachlor decreased maximum fluorescence, variable and relative variable fluorescence, maximum quantum yield, quantum yield of electron transport, the rate of trapped exciton movement, quantum yield of electron transfer, and performance index of primary photochemistry; however, there was a progressive increase in the net rate of PS‐II closure, quantum yield of energy dissipation, and effective antenna size per active reaction center. A decrease in photosynthetic activity leads to a decrease in carbon dissimilation, as evidenced by low activity of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase and pyruvate kinase. Thus, pretilachlor, which is otherwise known to kill weeds by interfering with cell division, affected the growth of the cyanobacteria by interacting with PS‐II.
Selective screw fixation is associated with early failure of primary acetabular components for aseptic loosening
Authors: Goodnough L. Henry , Bonano John C. , Finlay Andrea K. , Aggarwal Vinay K. , Huddleston James I. , Maloney William J. , Goodman Stuart B. , Amanatullah Derek F.
Published: March 2020

Selective supplementation of acetabular component fixation with a screw during primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) assumes that the surgeon can detect when an acetabular component needs additional stability. In contrast, nonselective screw users do not alter their practice based on their interpretation of stability and either use screws all or none of the time. We aimed to determine the effect of selective screw use on aseptic acetabular component loosening. We retrospectively reviewed aseptic failures of acetabular components after primaty THA. We compared the survivorship of selective and nonselective supplementation of acetabular fixation with respect to time to revision, obesity, and screw use. Selective screw use (n = 16) was associated with earlier acetabular component aseptic loosening (median: 1.9 years; interquartile range [IQR]: 1.1‐5.0) compared to nonselective screw use (n = 22; median: 5.6 years; IQR: 2.0‐15.3; P = .010). Selective screw use was independently associated with earlier revision after adjusting for patient obesity. Obesity was associated with selective screw use in 50% of the cases vs 14% of nonselective cases (odds ratio: 6.3; confidence interval: 1.2‐25.2; P = .028), possibly reflecting the increased difficulty in achieving acetabular component stability in this and other settings with compromised bone. Surgeons should carefully assess component stability at time of primary THA. If the acetabulum is not stable, the addition of screws alone may not be sufficient for acetabular component stability.
Cervical spine MRI phenotypes and prediction of pain, disability and adjacent segment degeneration/disease after ACDF
Authors: Harada Garrett K. , Tao Youping , Louie Philip K. , Basques Bryce A. , Galbusera Fabio , Niemeyer Frank , Wilke Hans‐Joachim , Goldberg Edward , An Howard S. , Samartzis Dino
Published: March 2020

Degenerative spine imaging findings have been extensively studied in the lumbar region and are associated with pain and adverse clinical outcomes after surgery. However, few studies have investigated the significance of these imaging “phenotypes” in the cervical spine. Patients with degenerative cervical spine pathology undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) from 2008 to 2015 were retrospectively and prospectively assessed using preoperative MRI for disc degeneration, narrowing, and displacement, high‐intensity zones, endplate abnormalities, Modic changes, and osteophyte formation from C2‐T1. Points were assigned for these phenotypes to generate a novel Cervical Phenotype Index (CPI). Demographics were evaluated for association with phenotypes and the CPI using forward stepwise regression. Bootstrap sampling and multiple imputations assessed phenotypes and the CPI in association with patient‐reported outcomes (Neck Disability Index [NDI], Visual Analog Scale [VAS]‐neck, VAS‐arm) and adjacent segment degeneration (ASDeg) and disease (ASDz). Of 861 patients, disc displacement was the most common (99.7%), followed by osteophytes (92.0%) and endplate abnormalities (57.3%). Most findings were associated with age and were identified at similar cervical vertebral levels; at C5‐C7. Imaging phenotypes demonstrated both increased and decreased associations with adverse patient‐reported outcomes and ASDeg/Dz. However, the CPI consistently predicted worse NDI (P = .012), VAS‐neck (P = .007), and VAS‐arm (P = .013) scores, in addition to higher odds of ASDeg (P = .002) and ASDz (P = .004). The CPI was significantly predictive of postoperative symptoms of pain/disability and ASDeg/Dz after ACDF, suggesting that the totality of degenerative findings may be more clinically relevant than individual phenotypes and that this tool may help prognosticate outcomes after surgery.
Traumatic compressive stress inhibits osteoblast differentiation through long chain non‐coding RNA Dancr
Authors: Lu Qian , Xu Weizhe , Liu Linyi , Zhou Xuedong , Ye Ling , Song Dongzhe , Zhang Lan , Huang Dingming
Published: March 2020

Background

Occlusal trauma is an important local contributing factor aggravating periodontal pocket and alveolar bone absorption in periodontal diseases. Our previous studies have found that occlusal trauma inhibited osteogenic differentiation through nuclear factor (NF)‐κB signaling. To further investigate the underlying mechanism, the aim of this study was to explore the role of long chain non‐coding differentiation antagonizing non‐protein coding RNA (Dancr) in the inhibitory effect of traumatic stress on osteoblast differentiation.

Methods

We took the MC3T3‐E1 cells as object in vitro research and stimulated cells with simple stress load, Dancr‐siRNA + stress load, Dancr overexpression‐plasmid + stress load. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the RNA expression levels of Dancr, alkaline phosphatase (Alp) and Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). The protein expressions of Alp and Runx2 were tested by Western blot and the activity of Alp was qualitatively demonstrated by Alp staining. In addition, Western blot was performed to investigate the role of Dancr in affecting NF‐κB signaling pathway.

Results

Traumatic compressive stress inhibited the expressions of Alp, Runx2, andDancr in MC3T3‐E1 cells. Stress‐induced inhibition of osteoblast differentiation was promoted after silencing Dancr. Overexpression of Dancr could alleviate the inhibitory effect of traumatic force on osteoblast differentiation to some extent. Furthermore, NF‐κB signaling was activated after silencing Dancr, and the activated effect of traumatic force on NF‐κB signaling could be alleviated through overexpression of Dancr to some extent.

Conclusion

Traumatic compressive stress can indirectly activate the NF‐κB signaling through downregulation of Dancr, thereby inhibiting osteogenic differentiation.
Preparation of a thiols β‐cyclodextrin/gold nanoparticles‐coated open tubular column for capillary electrochromatography enantioseparations
Authors: Fang Linlin , Zhao Yanyan , Wang Chao , Wang Changyuan , Han Xu , Chen Pengjun , Zhao Lizhu , Wang Jingping , Li Shuang , Jiang Zhen
Published: March 2020

Inspired by the distinct chemical and physical properties of nanoparticles, here a novel open‐tubular capillary electrochromatography column was prepared by electrostatic assembly of poly(diallydimethylammonium chloride) onto the inner surface of a fused‐silica capillary, followed by self‐adsorption of negatively charged SH‐β‐cyclodextrin/gold nanoparticles. The formation of the SH‐β‐cyclodextrin/gold nanoparticles coated capillary was confirmed and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry. The results of scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry studies indicated that SH‐β‐cyclodextrin/gold nanoparticles were successfully coated on the inner wall of the capillary column. The performance of the SH‐β‐cyclodextrin/gold nanoparticles coated capillary was validated by the analysis of six pairs of chiral drugs, namely zopiclone, carvedilol, salbutamol, terbutaline sulfate, phenoxybenzamine hydrochloride, and ibuprofen. Satisfactory enantioseparation results were achieved, confirming the use of gold nanoparticles as the support could enhance the phase ratio of the open‐tubular capillary column. Additionally, the stability and reproducibility of the SH‐β‐cyclodextrin/gold nanoparticles coated capillary column were also investigated. Then, this proposed method was well validated with good linearity (≥0.999), recovery (90.0–93.5%) and repeatability, and was successfully used for enantioseparation of ibuprofen in spiked plasma samples, which indicated the new column's potential usage in biological analysis.
On discouraging environments in team contests: Evidence from top‐level beach volleyball
Authors: Sonnabend Hendrik
Published: March 2020

This contribution empirically investigates the adverse effects of unbalanced competition and negative feedback in team contests in the field. Using a unique data set sourced from top‐level beach volleyball, I provide evidence for discouragement effects in line with contest theory. The analysis identifies a non‐linear relationship between ex ante contestant heterogeneity and performance. Overall, no gender differences can be found. Finally, it shows that age diversity in teams helps to overcome setbacks.
Congenital dyserythropoiesis anemia type Ia with a novel CDAN1 mutation diagnosed by whole exome sequencing
Authors: Lin Pei‐Chin , Cheng Chao‐Neng , Huang Hsi‐Yuan , Tseng Yu‐Hsin , Chang Ya‐Sian , Lin Chien‐Yu , Chang Jan‐Gowth
Published: March 2020

Background

Congenital dyserythropoiesis anemia type Ia (OMIM:224120), is a rare hereditary anemia. The diagnosis is difficult to make and usually delayed in part due to its rarity and nonspecific clinical manifestations.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing was applied for the genetic diagnosis of a 12‐year‐old boy who has suffered from hemolytic anemia since birth and who requires regular transfusions. Sanger sequencing of the variants detected in whole exome sequencing was performed in the patient and his parents.

Results

Compound heterozygous mutations of CDAN1 gene, including one previously reported and one novel mutation, which is a splicing change, were detected in the whole exome sequencing and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The autosomal recessive inheritance was confirmed by pedigree analysis.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of congenital dyserythropoiesis anemia type Ia with genetic diagnosis to be located in Taiwan. Because of the rarity of CDA Ia and the overlapping of the clinical manifestations with other hereditary anemias, the next‐generation sequencing approach is effective for conclusive diagnosis of CDA Ia.
On a certain bivariate Mittag‐Leffler function analysed from a fractional‐calculus point of view
Authors: Kürt Cemaliye , Özarslan Mehmet Ali , Fernandez Arran
Published: March 2020

Mittag‐Leffler functions of one variable play a vital role in several areas of study. Their connections with fractional calculus enable many physical processes, such as diffusion and viscoelasticity, to be efficiently modelled. Here, we consider a Mittag‐Leffler function of two variables and the associated double integral operator, with the goal of establishing once again connections with fractional calculus. By working from the fractional‐calculus viewpoint, it is possible to obtain many new results concerning the double integral operator, including a series formula and a bivariate chain rule. We also discover a left inverse operator, which completes this model of fractional calculus. As applications, we solve some initial value problems and use a modified Stancu‐Bernstein model to approximate the image of a Hölder‐continuous function under the action of our double integral operator.
Symmetry analysis and optimal systems of generalized Chaplygin gas equations with a source term
Authors: Pradhan Pabitra Kumar , Pandey Manoj Kumar
Published: March 2020

The system of generalized Chaplygin gas equations with a coulomblike friction term has been investigated by using the famous Lie symmetry method. A direct and systematic algorithm based on the adjoint transformation and invariants of the admitted Lie algebras is then used to construct one‐ and two‐dimensional optimal system of the Chaplygin gas equations. Inequivalent classes of group invariant solutions are then obtained using the one‐dimensional optimal system. Further, the evolutionary behaviour of the weak discontinuity wave within the state characterized by one of the group invariant solutions is investigated in detail, and certain observations are noted in respect to their contrasting behaviour.
Mouse genotyping in an hour
Authors: Reid Andrea L. , Alexander Matthew S.
Published: March 2020

See article on pages 801–807 in this issue.
Tongue necrosis caused by systemic vascular diseases: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Kitamura Naoya , Sento Shinya , Yoshizawa Yasumasa , Sasabe Eri , Yamamoto Tetsuya
Published: March 2020

We present a review of the case reports of tongue/lingual necrosis caused by systemic vascular diseases. An electronic search of PubMed/MEDLINE was carried out for studies published from January 2009 to December 2018 using the following three keywords: tongue, lingual, and necrosis. The literature analysis identified 32 reports (38 cases) of tongue/lingual necrosis among the 325 studies originally identified by the PubMed/MEDLINE search. In all, 19 of the 38 cases were on vasculitis, followed by 10 on cardiogenic/septic shock, 7 on tongue infarction (due to carotid artery stenosis or systemic thrombosis), and 2 on other causes (systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic vascular amyloidosis). Among the 19 cases on vasculitis, 15 cases were reported about giant cell arteritis; 3 on polyarteritis nodosa; and 1 on necrotizing vasculitis of the tongue secondary to giant cell arteritis. In conclusion, the diagnosis of tongue/lingual necrosis is diverse and challenging because of the polymorphous clinical pattern at onset and similarity with different diseases. Our findings will be useful to clinicians in the differential diagnosis of unusual tongue/lingual necrosis cases.
Linear viscoelastic characterization of electrically conductive adhesives used as interconnect in photovoltaic modules
Authors: Springer Martin , Bosco Nick
Published: March 2020

Electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) are incorporated into recent designs of photovoltaic (PV) modules and replace the traditional metallic solders as interconnects. This transition depicts a significant material change, and a proper understanding of the interconnects' mechanical response has not yet been established. However, such an understanding is necessary to (a) identify the driving forces for module degradation and failure, (b) allow for module design optimization, and (c) enable accurate lifetime predictions. This study summarizes the framework for the mechanical materials characterization and modeling of ECAs for PV applications. Only high‐fidelity material models are able to capture the rate and temperature dependency of the ECA interconnect and allow for accurate modeling of the materials response. A linear viscoelastic representation is found to describe the mechanical response of the ECAs sufficiently well. The effects of curing conditions and environmental exposure are investigated, and material models for a variety of ECAs are reported and prepared for the use in numerical simulations. A finite element simulation of a generic submodel of a shingled cell module is used to highlight the need for high‐fidelity material models and demonstrates the error made in the predicted stress states by using less sophisticated models.
Potential therapeutic effects of curcumin mediated by JAK/STAT signaling pathway: A review
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Milad , Rafiei Hossein , Mohammadinejad Reza , Afshar Elham G. , Farkhondeh Tahereh , Samarghandian Saeed
Published: March 2020

Curcumin is a naturally occurring nutraceutical compound with a number of therapeutic and biological activities such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐diabetic, antitumor, and cardioprotective. This plant‐derived chemical has demonstrated great potential in targeting various signaling pathways to exert its protective effects. Signal transducers and activator of transcription (STAT) is one of the molecular pathways involved in a variety of biological processes such as cell proliferation and cell apoptosis. Accumulating data demonstrates that the STAT pathway is an important target in treatment of a number of disorders, particularly cancer. Curcumin is capable of affecting STAT signaling pathway in induction of its therapeutic impacts. Curcumin is able to enhance the level of anti‐inflammatory cytokines and improve inflammatory disorders such as colitis by targeting STAT signaling pathway. Furthermore, studies show that inhibition of JAK/STAT pathway by curcumin is involved in reduced migration and invasion of cancer cells. Curcumin normalizes the expression of JAK/STAT signaling pathway to exert anti‐diabetic, renoprotective, and neuroprotective impacts. At the present review, we provide a comprehensive discussion about the effect of curcumin on JAK/STAT signaling pathway to direct further studies in this field.