bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting the brook floater, a freshwater mussel species at risk, using environmental DNA
Authors: LeBlanc F. , Steeves R. , Belliveau V. , Akaishi F. , Gagné N.
Published: March 2021

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) is a promising approach for the detection of aquatic species, including species at risk. One freshwater mussel species of interest in Atlantic Canada, the brook floater (Alasmidonta varicosa), is listed as being of Special Concern under theSpecies at Risk Actin Canada and as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Further scientific data regarding species distribution and critical habitat is needed for the protection and conservation of this species.

The aim of this study was to design, optimize, and apply a species‐specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of brook floater from eDNA samples, and to assess temporal variability in brook floater eDNA quantities.

Through an eDNA survey performed in New Brunswick rivers in 2017 and 2018, brook floater DNA was found at a total of 16 out of 56 sites sampled. The amount of brook floater DNA detected at all 16 sites was always below the theoretical limit of detection of the assay, and, as such, results were classified as either ‘inconclusive’ or ‘suspected’.

The co‐detection of eastern pearlshell (Margaritifera margaritifera), a more abundant freshwater mussel species in Atlantic Canada, was successfully used as a natural positive control.

Temporal variability in the amount of eDNA found in the water was also assessed at a site with a known brook floater population and minimal variability in eDNA quantities was observed from May to September.

These results provide researchers and managers with a new tool for the detection of the brook floater in support of conservation and monitoring efforts.
Variation in cross‐sectional shape and biomechanical properties of the bat humerus under Wolff's law
Authors: López‐Aguirre Camilo , Wilson Laura A. B. , Koyabu Daisuke , Tu Vuong Tan , Hand Suzanne J.
Published: March 2021

Bats use their forelimbs in different ways, but flight is the most notable example of morphological adaptation. Foraging and roosting specializations beyond flight have also been described in several bat lineages. Understanding postcranial evolution during the locomotory and foraging diversification of bats is fundamental to understanding bat evolution. We investigated whether different foraging and roosting behaviors influenced humeral cross‐sectional shape and biomechanical variation, following Wolff's law of bone remodeling. The effect of body size and phylogenetic relatedness was also tested, in order to evaluate multiple sources of variation. Our results suggest strong ecological signal and no phylogenetic structuring in shape and biomechanical variation in humeral phenotypes. Decoupled modes of scaling of shape and biomechanical variation were consistently indicated across foraging and roosting behaviors, suggesting divergent allometric trajectories. Terrestrial locomoting and upstand roosting species showed unique patterns of shape and biomechanical variation across all our analyses, suggesting that these rare behaviors among bats place unique functional demands on the humerus, canalizing phenotypes. Our results suggest that complex and multiple adaptive pathways interplay in the postcranium, leading to the decoupling of different features and regions of skeletal elements optimized for different functional demands. Moreover, our results shed further light on the phenotypical diversification of the wing in bats and how adaptations besides flight could have shaped the evolution of the bat postcranium.
A switch of microbial flora coupled with ontogenetic niche shift in Leptinotarsa decemlineata
Authors: Kang Wei‐Nan , Jin Lin , Fu Kai‐Yun , Guo Wen‐Chao , Li Guo‐Qing
Published: March 2021

In Leptinotarsa decemlineata, a final‐instar wandering larva typically undergoes an ontogenetic niche shift (ONS), from potato plant during the foraging stage to its pupation site below ground. Using high‐throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene, we determined the hypothesis that the L. decemlineata pupae harbor stage‐specific bacteria to meet the physiological requirements for underground habitat. We identified 34 bacterial phyla, comprising 73 classes, 208 orders, 375 families, and 766 genera in the collected specimens. Microbes across phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were enriched in the pupae, while those in the phylum Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes dominated in the larvae and adults. A total of 18 genera, including Blastococcus, Corynebacterium_1, Gordonia, Microbacterium, Nocardia, Nocardioides, Rhodococcus, Solirubrobacter, Tsukamurella, Enterococcus, Acinetobacter, Escherichia_Shigella, Lysobacter, Pseudomonas, and Stenotrophomonas, were specifically distributed in pupae. Moreover, soil sterilizing removed a major portion of bacteria in pupae. Specifically, both Enterococcus and Pseudomonas were eliminated in the soil sterilizing and antibiotic‐fed beetle groups. Furthermore, the pupation rate and fresh pupal weight were similar, whereas the emergence rate and adult weight were decreased in the antibiotic‐fed beetles, compared with controls. The results demonstrate that a switch of bacterial communities occurs in the pupae; the pupal‐specific bacteria genera are mainly originated from soil; this bacterial biodiversity improves pupa performance in soil. Our results provide new insight into the evolutionary fitness of L. decemlineata to different environmental niches.
Orientation tactics and associated factors in the digital library environment: Comparison between blind and sighted users
Authors: Xie Iris , Babu Rakesh , Lee Hyun Seung , Wang Shengang , Lee Tae Hee
Published: March 2021

This is the first study that compares types of orientation tactics that blind and sighted users applied in their initial interactions with a digital library (DL) and the associated factors. Multiple methods were employed for data collection: questionnaires, think‐aloud protocols, and transaction logs. The paper identifies seven types of orientation tactics applied by the two groups of users. While sighted users focused on skimming DL content, blind users concentrated on exploring DL structure. Moreover, the authors discovered 13 types of system, user, and interaction factors that led to the use of orientation tactics. More system factors than user factors affect blind users' tactics in browsing DL structures. The findings of this study support the social model that the sight‐centered design of DLs, rather than blind users' disability, prohibits them from effectively interacting with a DL. Simultaneously, the results reveal the limitation of existing interactive information retrieval models that do not take people with disabilities into consideration. DL design implications are discussed based on the identified factors.
Recent Applications of Aggregation Induced Emission Probes for Antimicrobial Peptide Studies
Authors: Luu Tracey , Li Wenyi , O'Brien‐Simpson Neil M. , Hong Yuning
Published: March 2021

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are being intensively investigated as they are considered promising alternatives to antibiotics where their clinical efficacy is dwindling due to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Accompanying with the development of AMPs, a number of fluorescent probes have been developed to facilitate the understanding the modes of action of AMPs. These probes have been used to monitor the binding process, determine the working mechanism and evaluate the antimicrobial properties of AMPs. In particular, with the recent advance of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) fluorophores, that show many advantageous properties over traditional probes, there is an increasing research interest in using AIE probes for AMP studies. In this review, we give an overview of AMP development, highlight the recent progress of using fluorescence probes in particularly AIE probes in the AMP field and propose the future perspective of developing potent antimicrobial agents to combat AMR.
Modification of raindrop size distribution due to seeder–feeder interactions between stratiform precipitation and shallow convection observed by X‐band polarimetric radar and optical disdrometer
Authors: Misumi Ryohei , Uji Yasushi , Maesaka Takeshi
Published: March 2021

The seeder–feeder interactions (SFIs), where raindrops from upper clouds grow by accreting cloud droplets in the lower clouds, have been extensively studied. However, there are few studies on the modification of raindrop size distribution (DSD) through this process. In the present study, rainfall from the landfalling rainbands of a typhoon was observed using an optical disdrometer and an X‐band polarimetric radar. Rainfall was classified into the following three types based on the DSD characteristics at the surface and the existence of a ρHV minimum in the upper layer: convective rainfall accompanied by a melting layer (type SF), convective rainfall without a melting layer (type C), and stratiform rainfall with a melting layer (type S). Type SF rainfall was regarded as having undergone SFIs between stratiform precipitation and shallow convection. The DSD for SF type rainfall was characterized by more small‐ to medium‐sized raindrops and a larger normalized intercept parameter than rainfall types C and S. An analysis using vertical profiles of radar‐derived DSD parameters for type SF rainfall suggested that the median‐volume diameter of raindrops increased by accreting cloud droplets in the lower clouds, and that small‐ to medium‐sized raindrops were produced by a warm rain process and breakup of raindrops.
Improving promotional effectiveness for consumer goods—A dynamic Bayesian approach
Authors: Raman Balaji , Sen Kamal , Gorti Venu , Ravishanker Nalini
Published: March 2021

A leading global personal care manufacturer was spending millions of dollars towards giving promotional offers on various goods throughout the year. The C‐suite (i.e., CEO, CFO, COO, and CIO) of the global personal care firm was aware of the increasing promotion spends year on year and this led to questions on promotion effectiveness. The main question faced by the firm was whether the returns they were getting in terms of revenue was justifying the increase in promotional spends. In addition, they had the following concerns: (i) Are they evaluating their promotion effectiveness in a scientific way? (ii) Given that the nature and intensity of promotions differ across weeks, regions, and the size and type of retail outlet, can they quantify promotion effectiveness for different time periods and at different levels of hierarchy of retail outlets? (iii) Can we develop a tool to evaluate and optimize promotional spends periodically? Based on our previous association with this firm, we were approached to solve their problems related to promotions. After our initial meeting, we realized that our solution should consist of four pillars: (i) Data—understanding the data and data wrangling, (ii) Model—developing a statistical modeling framework to evaluate promotion effectiveness, (iii) Computation—coding with emphasis on computational speed in order to update returns periodically, and (iv) Dashboard—producing an interactive tool for viewing results and carrying out budget optimization by stakeholders. In this article, we consider one brand of the manufacturer as an example to present our solution as a case study. This brand under focus is a face care brand in India and it spends about USD 4 million every year on promotions. We model the promotion effectiveness under the framework of dynamic linear models (DLM) using integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA), a fast, approximate computational framework for Bayesian modeling and prediction. Companies like our personal care manufacturer belong to an industry which is commonly known as consumer packaged goods (CPG). An overview of this industry is presented in the following section.
Pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic modeling for hepatic delivery and efficacy of antisense oligonucleotides with lipophilic ligands in mice
Authors: Watanabe Ayahisa , Katsube Takayuki
Published: March 2021

Conjugation with lipophilic ligands such as cholesterol and α‐tocopherol dramatically improves the delivery and efficacy of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) in the liver. To estimate the hepatic ASO concentration and the efficacy of ASOs conjugated with lipophilic ligands in mice, we constructed a pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic (PK‐PD) model that consisted of a two‐linear compartment model for the plasma and the hepatic ASO concentration, and two indirect response models for the hepatic apolipoprotein B (Apo‐B) mRNA and plasma total cholesterol. The model provided a good fit of the hepatic ASO concentration although it showed an overprediction of Apo‐B mRNA and an underprediction of the plasma total cholesterol within 2‐fold at a later time after single intravenous administration of ASOs conjugated with lipophilic ligands. In addition, the model simulations indicated that the efficacy at a dose regimen of ASOs conjugated with lipophilic ligands (0.2 mg/kg, once a week) in mice was comparable to that at an effective dose of unchanged ASO (2.5 mg/kg, once a week). Although further studies are required to refine the parameters of the PK–PD model, this approach could be used to guide dose‐ranging pharmacological studies for ASOs conjugated with lipophilic ligands in mice.
Epigenetic editing: Dissecting chromatin function in context
Authors: Policarpi Cristina , Dabin Juliette , Hackett Jamie A.
Published: March 2021

How epigenetic mechanisms regulate genome output and response to stimuli is a fundamental question in development and disease. Past decades have made tremendous progress in deciphering the regulatory relationships involved by correlating aggregated (epi)genomics profiles with global perturbations. However, the recent development of epigenetic editing technologies now enables researchers to move beyond inferred conclusions, towards explicit causal reasoning, through 'programing’ precise chromatin perturbations in single cells. Here, we first discuss the major unresolved questions in the epigenetics field that can be addressed by programable epigenome editing, including the context‐dependent function and memory of chromatin states. We then describe the epigenetic editing toolkit focusing on CRISPR‐based technologies, and highlight its achievements, drawbacks and promise. Finally, we consider the potential future application of epigenetic editing to the study and treatment of specific disease conditions.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Meeting New Demands—and Requirements—for Accountability
Authors: Resnick Stephanie , Fuller John C.
Published: March 2021

Stephanie Resnick, Chair of the Directors' & Officers' Liability & Corporate Governance Practice Group at Fox Rothschild LLP, and John Fuller, Partner in the firm's Directors' & Officers' Liability & Corporate Governance Practice Group, discuss the growing number of states that have either enacted or are considering enacting statutes requiring diversity on boards. They highlight the increase in litigation surrounding non‐diverse boards, as well as the expectations for this trend going forward.
Interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis of CD19‐selected cells: Utility in detecting disease in post‐therapy samples of B‐cell neoplasms
Authors: Parrott Andrew M. , Murty Vundavalli V. , Walsh Caitlin , Christiano Alecia , Bhagat Govind , Alobeid Bachir
Published: March 2021

Context

The detection of low‐level persistent or relapsed B‐cell neoplasms, particularly post‐therapy, can be challenging, often requiring multiple testing modalities.

Objective

Here we investigate the utility of CD19‐based selection of neoplastic B‐cells (CD19S) as an enrichment strategy to improve the detection rate of cytogenetic abnormalities in post‐therapy samples of B‐cell neoplasms, especially those with low‐level disease.

Design

In a cohort largely comprised of post‐therapy B‐ALL and CLL samples, we performed fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis on CD19‐selected cells (CD19S FISH) in 128 specimens from 88 patients, and on non‐selected cells (NS FISH) in a subset of cases. The FISH findings were compared with the concurrent flow cytometry (FC) results in all samples and molecular analysis in a subset.

Results

CD19S FISH was able to detect cytogenetic aberrations in 86.0% of post‐therapy samples with evidence of disease as determined by routine or MRD FC, compared to 59.1% of samples by NS FISH. CD19S FISH detected significantly higher percentages of positive cells compared to NS FISH (p < 0.001). Importantly, CD19S FISH enabled the detection of emergent subclones (clonal evolution) associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusions

CD19S FISH can be useful in daily diagnostic practice. Compared to NS FISH, CD19S FISH is quantitatively and qualitatively superior for the detection of cytogenetic aberrations in B‐cell neoplasms, which are important for risk stratification and optimal management of patients with B‐cell neoplasms, especially in the relapsed setting. Although CD19S FISH has a diagnostic sensitivity inferior to that of MRD FC, the sensitivity of this modality is comparable to routine FC for the evaluation of low‐level disease in the post‐therapy setting. Moreover, CD19S samples are invaluable for additional molecular and genetic analyses.
Characteristics and risk differences of different tumor size on localized prostate cancer: A retrospective cohort study in the SEER database
Authors: Zhou Zhen , Yue Feng , Jin Liang , Liu Xiang , Zhai Ting‐Shuai , Zhang Jia‐Xin , Gu Wen‐Yu , Liu Sheng‐Hua , Luo Ming , Peng Bo , Yao Xu‐Dong , Ye Lin
Published: March 2021

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the role of tumor size in predicting tumor risk for localized prostate cancer (PCa) patients undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP).

Methods

Twenty‐five thousand, one hundred twenty‐seven men with PCa receiving RP from 2010 to 2015 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Kaplan–Meier plots and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to illustrate overall survival (OS) according to the tumor size. The tumor size was confirmed by postoperative pathology after RP.

Results

Among overall localized PCa, 84.6% were high‐risk PCa, 9.2% were intermediate‐risk PCa, and 6.2% were low‐risk PCa. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that tumor size ≥21 mm was an independent risk predict factor of low‐risk PCa (odds ratio [OR]: 11.940; 95% CI, 9.404–15.161; p < 0.001) and intermediate‐risk PCa (OR: 1.887; 95% CI, 1.586–2.245; p < 0.001). Tumor sizes ≤5 mm significantly correlated with high‐risk PCa (p < 0.001). Tumor size ≤5 mm had the worst OS in overall localized PCa and high‐risk PCa (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In localized PCa, tumor sizes ≥21 mm may help predict low or intermediate‐risk PCa, while tumor sizes ≤5 mm might help predict high‐risk PCa. In clinical practice, we should be on high alert for patients with tumors size ≤5 mm due to its poor prognosis after RP.
Fatal invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient with COVID‐19 due to Aspergillusterreus: A case study
Authors: Abolghasemi Sara , Hakamifard Atousa , Sharifynia Somayeh , Pourabdollah Toutkaboni Mihan , Azhdari Tehrani Hamed
Published: March 2021

Case reports of CAPA emerged. In most of the reports, the predominant species is Aspergillus fumigatus. Uncommon species are less reported. Due to poor clinical outcome with Aspergillus terreus, the increasing reports with this agent require attention.
Simulation and Analysis of a Factory Building's Energy Consumption Using eQuest Software
Authors: Mathews Roy Abel , Prasanna Venkatesan R. , Shanmugapriya T.
Published: March 2021

Considering the global energy consumption, it is imperative to focus on energy‐efficient buildings. For a multi‐storey factory building case study, the base case and design case energy consumption were compared with the actual one. The simulation proved that the design case values were less than that of the base case, and 18.9 % of energy saving could be achieved. The design case value was compared with the actual value and the simulation accuracy was assessed in terms of mean base error and cumulative root mean square error. A comparison was done for two conventional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with evaporative cooling pad system, which was found to be both energy‐ and cost‐efficient. A model for integrating the key factors during the construction of an energy‐efficient building is suggested.
Peptization Control of Aluminum Chloride‐Containing Composites for Catalysts with Active Matrix
Authors: Carrasco Saavedra Andres , Seifert Markus , Hauck Mathias , Brünner Andrea , Doert Thomas , Busse Oliver , Weigand Jan J.
Published: March 2021

Aluminum‐based composite particles are widely applied complex catalyst materials in oil refining. Due to their tunable shape, porosity, and acidity, they are commonly used for the production of cracking catalysts. Shaping of well‐defined particles remains a challenge for industrial catalyst preparation by spray drying, because catalyst properties must satisfy local demands of a refinery. The selectivity can be modified and the cracking activity enhanced with acid binders, e.g., AlCl3. Therefore, peptization of AlCl3‐containing suspensions with zeolite Y and kaolin was characterized by pH value, 27Al NMR spectroscopy, and zeta potential. A new control strategy for binding of kaolin and zeolite Y in spray drying was developed by adjusting the pH and binder Al/Cl ratio.
Clinical predictors for bradycardia and supraventricular tachycardia necessitating therapy in patients with unexplained syncope monitored by insertable cardiac monitor
Authors: Onuki Tatsuya , Shoji Makoto , Sugiyama Hiroto , Arai Shuhei , Yoshikawa Kosuke , Mase Hiroshi , Kurata Masaaki , Kikuchi Miwa , Wakatsuki Daisuke , Asano Taku , Suzuki Hiroshi , Tanno Kaoru , Kobayashi Youichi , Shinke Toshiro
Published: March 2021

Background

Insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) improve diagnostic yield in patients with unexplained syncope. The most of cardiac syncope is arrhythmic causes include paroxysmal bradycardia and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) in patients with unexplained syncope receiving ICM. Predictors for bradycardia and SVT that necessitate therapy in patients with unexplained syncope are not well known.

Hypothesis

This study aimed to investigate predictors of bradycardia and SVT necessitating therapy in patients with unexplained syncope receiving ICMs.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of consecutive patients who received ICMs to monitor unexplained syncope. We performed Cox's stepwise logistic regression analysis to identify significant independent predictors for bradycardia and SVT.

Results

One hundred thirty‐two patients received ICMs to monitor unexplained syncope. During the 17‐month follow‐up period, 19 patients (14%) needed pacemaker therapy for bradycardia; 8 patients (6%) received catheter ablation for SVT. The total estimated diagnostic rates were 34% and 48% at 1 and 2 years, respectively. Stepwise logistic regression analysis indicated that syncope during effort (odds ratio [OR] = 3.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21 to 9.6; p = .02) was an independent predictor for bradycardia. Palpitation before syncope (OR = 9.46; 95% CI, 1.78 to 50.10; p = .008) and history of atrial fibrillation (OR = 10.1; 95% CI, 1.96 to 52.45; p = .006) were identified as significant independent predictors for SVT.

Conclusion

Syncope during effort, and palpitations or history of atrial fibrillation were independent predictors for bradycardia and for SVT. ICMs are useful devices for diagnosing unexplained syncope.
Performance of pulse palpation compared to one‐lead ECG in atrial fibrillation screening
Authors: Gudmundsdottir Katrin Kemp , Fredriksson Tove , Svennberg Emma , Al‐Khalili Faris , Friberg Leif , Häbel Henrike , Frykman Viveka , Engdahl Johan
Published: March 2021

Background

The 2020 European Society of Cardiology atrial fibrillation guidelines recommend opportunistic screening for atrial fibrillation by pulse taking or ECG rhythm strip in those aged over 65 years.

Hypothesis

We aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of pulse palpation to ECG rhythm strip when screening for atrial fibrillation. A secondary aim was to investigate whether participants with palpitations were more likely to be diagnosed with new atrial fibrillation.

Methods

The study population were 75/76 year old individuals that participated in the STROKESTOP II study, a Swedish screening study for atrial fibrillation. Pulse palpation of the radial pulse for 30 sec was performed by healthcare professionals and recorded as regular or irregular. Thereafter a 30‐sec single‐lead ECG was registered. Patients were asked also if they had a history of palpitations.

Results

Of the 6159 participants included in the study, 461 (7.5%) had irregular pulse. Twenty‐two (4.8%) of those with irregular pulse were diagnosed with atrial fibrillation on single‐lead ECG rhythm strip. Among those with regular pulse, 6 (0.1%) cases of new atrial fibrillation were found. The sensitivity of the pulse palpation test was 78.6% and positive predictive value 4.8%. The proportion of newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation was not different between those with and without history of palpitations.

Conclusion

Pulse palpation was inferior to single‐lead ECG when screening for atrial fibrillation. We therefore advocate the use of single‐lead ECG rather than pulse palpation when screening for atrial fibrillation. Palpitations did not predict atrial fibrillation.
Unsolicited patient complaints among radiation, medical, and surgical oncologists
Authors: Raldow Ann , Adefres Bethel , Warso Michael , Shinohara Eric , Anand Sidharth , Domenico Henry J. , Galloway Mitchell B. , Pichert James W. , Cooper William O.
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Unsolicited patient complaints (UPCs) about physician practices are nonrandomly associated with malpractice claims and clinical quality. The authors evaluated the distributions and types of UPCs associated with oncologists by specialty and assessed oncologist characteristics associated with UPCs.

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed UPCs associated with US radiation oncologists (ROs), medical oncologists (MOs), and surgical oncologists (SOs) from 35 health care systems from 2015 to 2018. Average total UPCs were compared by specialty in addition to sex, medical school graduation year, degree, medical school location, residency location, practice setting, and practice region. For continuous variables, linear regression was used to test for an association with total complaints.

RESULTS

The study included 1576 physicians: 318 ROs, 1020 MOs, and 238 SOs. The average number of UPCs per physician was different and depended on the oncologic specialty: ROs had significantly fewer complaints (1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02‐1.54) than MOs (3.81; 95% CI, 3.52‐4.10) and SOs (6.89; 95% CI, 5.99‐7.79; P < .0001). In a multivariable analysis, oncologic specialty, recency of graduation, and academic practice were predictive of higher total UPCs (P < .05). UPCs described concerns with care and treatment (42.8%), communication (26.4%), accessibility (17.5%), concern for patient (10.3%), and billing (2.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

ROs had significantly fewer complaints than MOs and SOs and may have a lower risk of malpractice claims as a group. In addition to oncologic specialty, a more recent year of medical school graduation and working at an academic center were independent risk factors for UPCs. Further research is needed to clarify the reasons underlying these associations and to identify interventions that decrease UPCs and associated risks.

LAY SUMMARY

This study of 1576 oncologists found that radiation oncologists had significantly fewer complaints than medical oncologists, who in turn had significantly fewer complaints than surgical oncologists.

Other characteristics associated with more patient complaints included recency of medical school graduation and practice in an academic setting.

Oncologists' patient complaints provide information that may have practical applications for patient safety and risk management. Understanding and addressing the characteristics that increase the risk for complaints could improve patients' experiences and outcomes.
Chemical Modification and Transformation Strategies of Guide RNAs in CRISPR‐Cas9 Gene Editing Systems
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Qian , Wang Jing , Tang Xinjing
Published: March 2021

The CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)‐Cas9 (CRISPR‐associated protein 9) is a most powerful tool and has been widely used in gene editing and gene regulation since its discovery. However, wild‐type CRISPR‐Cas9 suffers from off‐target effects and low editing efficiency. To overcome these limitations, engineered Cas9 proteins have been extensively investigated. In addition to Cas9 protein engineering, chemically synthesized guide RNAs have been developed to improve the efficiency and specificity of genome editing as well as spatiotemporal controllability, which broadens the biological applications of CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing system and increases their potentials as therapeutics. In this review, we summarize the latest research advances in remodeling guide RNAs through length optimization, chemical modifications, and conditional control, as well as their powerful applications in gene editing tools and promising therapeutic agents.
Grid‐connected buck–boost inverter without shoot‐through issue and with reduced voltage stress
Authors: Yao Zhilei
Published: March 2021

Grid‐connected buck–boost inverters are used in wide input‐voltage range application. However, there is a shoot‐through problem in traditional grid‐connected inverters. Moreover, voltage stress of semiconductors is high in conventional buck–boost inverters. Therefore, a grid‐connected buck–boost inverter without shoot‐through issue and with reduced voltage stress is presented. The proposed inverter is a single‐stage system. When input voltage is higher than the grid voltage, the proposed inverter works in buck mode; when input voltage is lower than the grid voltage, it operates in boost mode. Thus, voltage stress of semiconductors is reduced. Only one switch is operated in high frequency in each period, so efficiency of the inverter can be improved. Operating principle of the proposed inverter is illustrated. Voltage stress analysis, loss calculation, and filter design guidelines and example are given. Finally, simulation and experimental results of a 300‐W proposed inverter confirm the theoretical analysis.
Markov Modulated Bernoulli Prediction Process‐based Cluster Head Selection Mechanism for improving resilience in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Arulmurugan A. , Amuthan A.
Published: March 2021

The clustering process in wireless sensor networks is considered to be predominant for facilitating minimized energy consumptions through the selection of potential cluster heads that are efficient in energy and trust. The significant cluster head selection is deterministic in topology control with the view to manage the sensor member nodes of the cluster with the view to enhance energy efficiency in the network. In this paper, a Markov Modulated Bernoulli Prediction Process‐based Cluster Head Selection Mechanism (MMBPP‐CHSM) is proposed by modeling the success probability of sensor nodes' state into a Bernoulli process that dynamically evolves over time based on Markov chain for extending the lifetime of the network. This proposed MMBPP‐CHSM scheme is vital in quantifying the reliability and availability of the sensor nodes in a dynamically evolving wireless sensor network through the estimation of trust and energy in order to facilitate effective cluster head selection. The simulation results of the proposed MMBPP‐CHSM scheme confirmed a superior enhancement in percentage of alive nodes and death nodes in the network to a maximum level of 28% and 23% on par with the baseline cluster head selection approaches used for investigation.
Pharmacokinetics and effects on arachidonic acid metabolism of low doses of cannabidiol following oral administration to horses
Authors: Ryan Declan , McKemie Dan S. , Kass Philip H. , Puschner Birgit , Knych Heather K.
Published: March 2021

The increasing availability of cannabidiol (CBD) and anecdotal reports of its anti‐inflammatory effects has garnered it much interest in the equine industry. The objectives of the current study were to (1) describe the pharmacokinetics of oral CBD in exercising thoroughbreds, (2) characterize select behavioral and physiologic effects, and (3) evaluate effects on biomarkers of inflammation using an ex vivo model. This study was conducted in a randomized balanced 3‐way crossover design with a two‐week washout period between doses. Horses received a single oral dose (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg) of CBD suspended in sesame oil. Blood and urine samples were collected prior to and for 72 hr post drug administration. Additional blood samples collected at select time points were challenged ex vivo with calcium ionophore or lipopolysaccharide to induce eicosanoid production. Drug, metabolite, and eicosanoid concentrations were determined using LC–MS/MS. Cannabidiol was well tolerated with no significant behavioral, gastrointestinal, or cardiac abnormalities observed. CBD was readily absorbed, with parent drug detected in blood at all time points. The carboxylated and hydroxylated metabolites predominated in serum and urine, respectively. The terminal half‐life for CBD was 10.7 ± 3.61, 10.6 ± 3.84 and 9.88 ± 3.53 for 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg. Although the effects were mixed, results of eicosanoid analysis suggest CBD affects COX‐1, COX‐2 and LOX at the doses studied here. Results of this study coupled with previous reports in other species, suggest further study of CBD in horses is warranted before its use as an anti‐inflammatory can be recommended.
Determination of drugs in exhumed liver and brain tissue after over 9 years of burial by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry—Part 2: Benzodiazepines, opioids, and further drugs
Authors: Bolte Katarina , Dziadosz Marek , Kono Naomi , Vennemann Benedikt , Klintschar Michael , Teske Jörg
Published: March 2021

In this publication, benzodiazepines, opioids, and further drugs were analyzed in exhumed brain and liver tissue samples in 116 cases (total) after 9.5–16.5 years of burial. Solid phase extraction followed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was applied. Data from literature is listed summarizing the detectability of the presented analytes after a certain time of burial. In our study, 60% of the analyzed benzodiazepines, 100% of the opioids, and 82% of further drugs were detectable. Only the benzodiazepines lorazepam, nitrazepam, flunitrazepam, and its metabolite norflunitrazepam, and the drugs butylscopolamine, metronidazole, and omeprazole were not detectable at all. Percentage of positive findings (total, and separately for brain and liver tissue) and postmortem period are listed for each analyte. Correlation of detectability depending on postmortem period and condition of tissue are presented exemplarily for midazolam. No substantial correlation was observed. Despite a long time of burial, most benzodiazepines, opioids, and further drugs were detectable in the examined tissue samples. Our results may be a good support for future exhumations in which toxicological analyses are relevant.
Natural enemies of herbivores maintain their biological control potential under short‐term exposure to future CO2, temperature, and precipitation patterns
Authors: van Doan Cong , Pfander Marc , Guyer Anouk S. , Zhang Xi , Maurer Corina , Robert Christelle A.M.
Published: March 2021

Climate change will profoundly alter the physiology and ecology of plants, insect herbivores, and their natural enemies, resulting in strong effects on multitrophic interactions. Yet, manipulative studies that investigate the direct combined impacts of changes in CO2, temperature, and precipitation on the third trophic level remain rare. Here, we assessed how exposure to elevated CO2, increased temperature, and decreased precipitation directly affect the performance and predation success of species from four major groups of herbivore natural enemies: an entomopathogenic nematode, a wolf spider, a ladybug, and a parasitoid wasp. A four‐day exposure to future climatic conditions (RCP 8.5), entailing a 28% decrease in precipitation, a 3.4°C raise in temperature, and a 400 ppm increase in CO2 levels, slightly reduced the survival of entomopathogenic nematodes, but had no effect on the survival of other species. Predation success was not negatively affected in any of the tested species, but it was even increased for wolf spiders and entomopathogenic nematodes. Factorial manipulation of climate variables revealed a positive effect of reduced soil moisture on nematode infectivity, but not of increased temperature or elevated CO2. These results suggest that natural enemies of herbivores may be well adapted to short‐term changes in climatic conditions. These findings provide mechanistic insights that will inform future efforts to disentangle the complex interplay of biotic and abiotic factors that drive climate‐dependent changes in multitrophic interaction networks.
Colonization process determines species diversity via competitive quasi‐exclusion
Authors: Yamauchi Atsushi , Ito Koichi , Shibasaki Shota
Published: March 2021

A colonization model provides a useful basis to investigate a role of interspecific competition in species diversity. The model formulates colonization processes of propagules competing for spatially distinct habitats, which is known to result in stable coexistence of multiple species under various trade‐off, for example, competition–colonization and fecundity–mortality trade‐offs. Based on this model, we propose a new theory to explain patterns of species abundance, assuming a trade‐off between competitive ability and fecundity among species. This model makes testable predictions about species positions in the rank abundance diagram under a discrete species competitiveness. The predictions were tested by three data of animal communities, which supported our model, suggesting the importance of interspecific competition in community structure. Our approach provides a new insight into understanding a mechanism of species diversity.
Convenient Cyclopentadiene Modifications for Building Versatile (Radio‐)Metal Cyclopentadienyl Frameworks
Authors: Lengacher Raphael , Braband Henrik , Csucker Joshua , Alberto Roger
Published: March 2021

The synthesis of a bifunctional cyclopentadiene‐based building block, bearing an alkyl linker with a terminal chloride and an ester group is described. This building block was modified by nucleophilic substitution, leading to two new fac‐[Re(CO)3]+ containing derivatives of known drug candidates for brain imaging and multi‐drug resistance in cancer in as few as two steps. Furthermore, the chloride was replaced by an azide, which was subsequently coupled to phenylacetylene as a model alkyne to demonstrate its versatility for undergoing Click‐type reactions. The resulting triazole was labelled with 99mTc to yield the corresponding piano‐stool complex in a radiochemical purity of 86 %. The identities were confirmed by coinjection with the Re homologue.
A New Approach for the Synthesis of Perfluoroalkanesulfenic Acids
Authors: Xu Jia‐Hong , Jiang Min , Song Li‐Ping , Liu Jin‐Tao
Published: March 2021

A new and more practical method for the preparation of solution‐stable perfluoroalkanesulfenic acids was successfully developed. Starting from perfluoroalkyl iodides, perfluoroalkyl sulfoxides were synthesized by their substitution reaction with alkyl mercaptans and the following oxidation of resulting perfluoroalkyl sulfides with m‐CPBA. Subsequent β‐H elimination of perfluoroalkyl sulfoxides under heating conditions gave the corresponding perfluoroalkanesulfenic acids in good yields.
Room Temperature Phosphorescence from Organic Materials: Unravelling the Emissive Behaviour of Chloro‐Substituted Derivatives of Cyclic Triimidazole
Authors: Giannini Clelia , Forni Alessandra , Malpicci Daniele , Lucenti Elena , Marinotto Daniele , Previtali Andrea , Carlucci Lucia , Cariati Elena
Published: March 2021

Purely organic luminophores that exhibit room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) are receiving an ever‐growing attention. The design of efficient RTP materials and the understanding of their emissive behaviour, however, remain a challenging task. Herein, to gain further insights into metal‐free RTP, we report the synthesis, characterization, and photophysical study of chloro‐derivatives of [1,2‐a:1′,2′‐c:1′′,2′′‐e][1,3,5]triazine or cyclic triimidazole (TT). Mono‐ (1Cl), di‐ (2Cl) and tri‐chloro‐TT (3Cl) derivatives are prepared by mild chlorination with N‐chlorosuccinimide (NCS). The three compounds are characterized by aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) comprising dual fluorescence and multiple phosphorescences, whose origin is disclosed by crystal structure analysis together with accurate DFT/TDDFT calculations. Comparison with previously reported bromine and iodine TT derivatives reveals the new chlorinated compounds as the best performing halogenated AIE members of the family.
A Three‐Step Synthesis of 4H‐Cyclopenta[def]phenanthrene from Pyrene
Authors: van der Ham Alex , Overkleeft Hermen S. , Filippov Dmitri V. , Schneider Grégory F.
Published: March 2021

4H‐Cyclopenta[def]phenanthrene (CPP) is a valuable building block in the production of photoactive polymers, which find use in a wide range of organic electronic applications. Of particular importance is their use in the development of blue‐colored, organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), which remains a challenge in the field. Unfortunately, commercial sources and synthetic procedures known in the literature are unable to provide enough CPP for large scale implementation. Herein, we report on the development of a novel, gram‐scale synthesis of CPP in three steps, starting from pyrene. The key steps in our methodology are the ring contraction of pyrene‐4,5‐dione to oxoCPP in a single step, as well as the direct reduction of oxoCPP to CPP. Apart from the small number of synthetic steps, our methodology benefits from the use of relatively non‐hazardous reagents, together with optimized purification procedures, making CPP accessible in useful quantities.
TIM‐3 polymorphism is involved in the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by regulating gene expression
Authors: Cui Sai‐Jin , Li Yan , Zhou Rong‐Miao , Liu Lu , Cao Shi‐Ru , Huang Xi , Huo Xiang‐Ran , Wang Na
Published: March 2021

The T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing molecule 3 (TIM‐3), a crucial immune regulatory molecule, is an emerging immune checkpoint target for cancer therapy. Our study aimed to investigate the association between TIM‐3 polymorphisms (rs10053538 C > A, rs10515746 C > A, and rs1036199 A > C) and the susceptibility and prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We further detect the effects of polymorphisms on TIM‐3 expression. Two independent case–control sets (population‐based and hospital‐based sets) were performed in total 994 ESCC patients and 998 controls. TIM‐3 polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction‐ligase detection reaction (PCR). Survival data were available for 198 patients who received platinum‐based chemotherapy after surgery. The regulation on TIM‐3 expression by the polymorphisms was investigated in 35 patients using real‐time quantitative PCR. The association between mRNA level of TIM‐3 and survival was detected by using Kaplan–Meier plotter database. We found that for rs10053538 C > A polymorphisms, A allele was associated with significant increased risk of ESCC (odds ratios [OR] = 1.34, 95%CI = 1.05–1.72), and CA/AA genotypes enhanced susceptibility to ESCC for smokers (adjusted OR = 1.61, 95%CI = 1.00–2.59). The patients with AA genotypes had significantly poor prognosis (adjusted HR = 4.98, 95%CI = 1.14–21.71). The patients carrying CA/AA genotypes had significantly higher mRNA levels of TIM‐3 than those carrying the CC genotype. Furthermore, high mRNA level of TIM‐3 had a shorter overall survival in patients (HR = 2.56, 95%CI = 1.04–6.28). For rs10515746 C > A and rs1036199 A > C polymorphisms, there were no statistical correlation with the progression of ESCC. These data demonstrate that rs10053538 C > A polymorphisms may be associated with the susceptibility and prognosis of ESCC patients through regulating expression of TIM‐3.
Physicochemical characteristics of biomass‐coal blend char: The role of co‐pyrolysis synergy
Authors: Lin Bowen , Zhou Jingsong , Qin Qianwen , Xie Cong , Luo Zhongyang
Published: March 2021

Co‐pyrolysis synergy between cornstalk and bituminous coal was investigated based on the physicochemical properties of the char. The char was prepared by directly putting the individual or blended materials into a heated resistance furnace at 600°C or 800°C. The performance of surface morphology and mineral matters was not notably changed by co‐pyrolysis, indicated by scanning electron microscope and X‐ray diffraction. However, N2 and CO2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms confirmed that surface area and pore structure were strongly influenced, particularly in large micropores and mesopores. Ultimate analysis and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer measurement revealed excessive depositions of carbon, alkali, and alkaline‐earth metal species in co‐pyrolysis char. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer analysis examined the elemental surface distribution, suggesting that co‐pyrolysis under moderate temperature strongly favored inhibiting potassium release. The non‐isothermal thermogravimetry‐differential scanning calorimeter experiments under air atmosphere were conducted for char combustion reactivity, which was expected to be instructive for deeper understanding about co‐pyrolysis synergy and reutilization of the char. The thermal behaviors during combustion of co‐pyrolysis char clearly resembled a single fuel, which completely varied from those of the char blends. Besides, co‐pyrolysis chars and char blends were superior in total heat release compared with the simple addition of calculated values from individual char. Based on these observations, key factors of the synergy were supposed to have consisted of free radical reaction, secondary char formation, and the migration of alkali and alkaline‐earth metal species.