bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Azobenzene‐Based Macrocyclic Arenes: Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and Light‐Controlled Molecular Encapsulation and Release
Authors: Liu Yuezhou , Wang Hongliang , Liu Peiren , Zhu Huangtianzhi , Shi Bingbing , Hong Xin , Huang Feihe
Published: December 2020

Azobenzene (azo)‐based macrocycles are highly fascinating in supramolecular chemistry because of their light‐responsiveness. In this work, a series of azo‐based macrocyclic arenes 1, 2, 3, and 4, distinguished by the substituted positions of azo groups, is rationally designed and synthesized via a fragment‐cyclization method. From the crystal and computed structures of 1, 2, and 3, we observe that the cavity size of these azo‐macrocycles decreases gradually upon E→Z photoisomerization. Moreover, light‐controlled host–guest complexations between azo‐macrocycle 1 and guest molecules (7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane, terephthalonitrile) are successfully achieved. This work provides a simple and effective method to prepare azo‐macrocycles, and the light‐responsive molecular‐encapsulation systems in this work may further advance the design and applications of novel photo‐responsive host–guest systems.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Large Area Two‐Dimensional Metal–Organic Framework Films on Copper Anodes
Authors: Liu Youxing , Wei Yanan , Liu Minghui , Bai Yichao , Wang Xinyu , Shang Shengcong , Chen Jianyi , Liu Yunqi
Published: December 2020

Owing to their excellent physical and electrical properties, metal–organic framework (MOF) materials with well‐defined supramolecular structures have received extensive research attention. However, the fabrication of large‐area two‐dimensional (2D) MOF films is still a significant challenge. Herein, we propose a novel electrochemical (EC) synthesis method for the preparation of large‐area Cu3(HHTP)2 MOF film on single‐crystal Cu (100) anode. The surface reaction was achieved via charge‐induced molecular assembly. The synthesized MOF film exhibited a high crystalline quality with an electrical conductivity of approximately 0.087 S cm−1, which was around 1000 times larger than the previously reported values for the same material prepared by the interface method. In addition, Cu2(MTCP), Cu3(BTPA)2, and Cu3(TPTC)2 MOF films were synthesized on Cu foil with the same strategy, which confirmed the universality of the proposed method. This controllable EC method can be effectively applied to the industrial‐scale production of 2D MOF films on Cu foil.
Universal Electrochemical Synthesis of Mesoporous Chalcogenide Semiconductors: Mesoporous CdSe and CdTe Thin Films for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Nagaura Tomota , Phan Hoang‐Phuong , Malgras Victor , Pham Tuan‐Anh , Lim Hyunsoo , Ashok Aditya , Kim Jeonghun , You Jungmok , Nguyen Nam‐Trung , Na Jongbeom , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: December 2020

Here we report the soft‐template‐assisted electrochemical deposition of mesoporous semiconductors (CdSe and CdTe). The resulting mesoporous films are stoichiometrically equivalent and contain mesopores homogeneously distributed over the entire surface. To demonstrate the versatility of the method, two block copolymers with different molecular weights are used, yielding films with pores of either 9 or 18 nm diameter. As a proof of concept, the mesoporous CdSe film‐based photodetectors show a high sensitivity of 204 mW−1 cm2 at 680 nm wavelength, which is at least two orders of magnitude more sensitive than the bulk counterpart. This work presents a new synthesis route for nanostructured semiconductors with optical band gaps active in the visible spectrum.
Sustainable parts‐per‐million level catalysis with FeIII: One‐pot cascade synthesis of 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones in water
Authors: Dutta Apurba , Trivedi Priyanka , Kulshrestha Akshay , Kumar Arvind , Chaturvedi Vinita , Sarma Diganta
Published: December 2020

A silica‐supported iron complex has been identified as a highly active and reusable catalyst for the synthesis of medicinally important 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones. The catalyst was fully characterized by various spectroscopic analyses such as Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), ultraviolet‐visible (UV–VIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX), energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP‐AES), elemental analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) isotherm and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analysis. A diverse library of 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones including some new analogues were successfully synthesized in good to excellent yields with parts‐per‐million (ppm) levels of Fe using water as a solvent. The active catalyst has high turnover number (TON) and turnover frequency (TOF) at the optimized condition, which were 30,087 and 30,087 h−1, respectively. Ppm level catalysis, wide substrate scope, shorter reaction time, reusability of the catalyst, green solvent media and gram‐scale synthesis make this protocol eco‐friendly and sustainable.
Lifetime Risks, Life Expectancy, and Health Care Expenditures for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Nationwide Cohort Followed Up From 2003 to 2016
Authors: Chiu Ying‐Ming , Lu Yi‐Peng , Lan Joung‐Liang , Chen Der‐Yuan , Wang Jung‐Der
Published: December 2020

Objective

This study was undertaken to estimate the cumulative incidence rate of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the Taiwanese population ages 16–84 years, and life expectancy, loss of life expectancy, and lifetime health care expenditures for incident RA in Taiwan after 2003, when biologics began to be prescribed.

Methods

We obtained all claims data for the period 1999 to 2016 from the National Health Insurance program of Taiwan, and validated the data against the Catastrophic Illness Registry to establish the study cohort. We estimated the survival function for RA and extrapolated to lifetime using a rolling‐over algorithm. For every RA case, we simulated sex‐, age‐, and calendar year–matched referents from vital statistics and estimated their life expectancy. The difference between the life expectancy of the referent and the life expectancy of the RA patient was the loss of life expectancy for the RA patient. Average monthly health care expenditures were multiplied by the corresponding survival rates and summed up throughout the lifetime to calculate the lifetime health care expenditures.

Results

A total of 29,352 new RA cases were identified during 2003–2016. There was a decreasing trend in cumulative incidence rate in those ages 16–84 for both sexes. Mean life expectancy after diagnosis of RA was 26.3 years, and mean lifetime cost was $72,953. RA patients had a mean loss of life expectancy of 4.97 years. Women with RA survived 1–2 years longer than men with RA of the same age, which resulted in higher lifetime expenditures for the former. Since the life expectancy for women in Taiwan was 6–7 years higher than that for men, the loss of life expectancy for women with RA was higher than that for men with RA. Annual health care expenditures were similar for both sexes.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that since biologics became available, RA patients have lived longer and had higher lifetime expenditures, which should be monitored and evaluated for cost‐effectiveness.
Vision‐based control architecture for human–robot hand‐over applications
Authors: Melchiorre Matteo , Scimmi Leonardo Sabatino , Mauro Stefano , Pastorelli Stefano Paolo
Published: December 2020

Human–robot collaboration will be an essential part of the production processes in the factories of tomorrow. In this paper, a human–robot hand‐over control strategy is presented. Human and robot can be both giver and receiver. A path‐planning algorithm drives the robotic manipulator towards the hand of the human and permits to adapt the pose of the tool center point of the robot to the pose of the hand of the human worker. The movements of the operator are acquired with a multi 3D‐sensors setup so to avoid any possible occlusion related to the presence of the robot or other dynamic obstacles. Estimation of the predicted position of the hand is performed to reduce the waiting time of the operator during the hand‐over task. The hardware setup is described, and the results of experimental tests, conducted to verify the effectiveness of the control strategy, are presented and discussed.
COVID‐19, microthromboses, inflammation, and platelet activating factor
Authors: Demopoulos Constantinos , Antonopoulou Smaragdi , Theoharides Theoharis C.
Published: December 2020

Recent articles report elevated markers of coagulation, endothelial injury, and microthromboses in lungs from deceased COVID‐19 patients. However, there has been no discussion of what may induce intravascular coagulation. Platelets are critical in the formation of thrombi and their most potent trigger is platelet activating factor (PAF), first characterized by Demopoulos and colleagues in 1979. PAF is produced by cells involved in host defense and its biological actions bear similarities with COVID‐19 disease manifestations. PAF can also stimulate perivascular mast cell activation, leading to inflammation implicated in severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Mast cells are plentiful in the lungs and are a rich source of PAF and of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐1β and IL‐6, which may contribute to COVID‐19 and especially SARS. The histamine‐1 receptor antagonist rupatadine was developed to have anti‐PAF activity, and also inhibits activation of human mast cells in response to PAF. Rupatadine could be repurposed for COVID‐19 prophylaxis alone or together with other PAF‐inhibitors of natural origin such as the flavonoids quercetin and luteolin, which have antiviral, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐PAF actions.
Molecular links between endocrine, nervous and immune system during chronic stress
Authors: Zefferino Roberto , Di Gioia Sante , Conese Massimo
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The stress response is different in various individuals, however, the mechanisms that could explain these distinct effects are not well known and the molecular correlates have been considered one at the time. Particular harmful conditions occur if the subject, instead to cope the stressful events, succumb to them, in this case, a cascade reaction happens that through different signaling causes a specific reaction named “sickness behaviour.” The aim of this article is to review the complex relations among important molecules belonging to Central nervous system (CNS), immune system (IS), and endocrine system (ES) during the chronic stress response.

Methods

After having verified the state of art concerning the function of cortisol, norepinephrine (NE), interleukin (IL)‐1β and melatonin, we describe as they work together.

Results

We propose a speculative hypothesis concerning the complex interplay of these signaling molecules during chronic stress, highlighting the role of IL‐1β as main biomarker of this effects, indeed, during chronic stress its increment transforms this inflammatory signal into a nervous signal (NE), in turn, this uses the ES (melatonin and cortisol) to counterbalance again IL‐1β. During cortisol resistance, a vicious loop occurs that increments all mediators, unbalancing IS, ES, and CNS networks. This IL‐1β increase would occur above all when the individual succumbs to stressful events, showing the Sickness Behaviour Symptoms. IL‐1β might, through melatonin and vice versa, determine sleep disorders too.

Conclusion

The molecular links here outlined could explain how stress plays a role in etiopathogenesis of several diseases through this complex interplay.
Prognostic significance of nutritional markers in metastatic gastric and esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ma Lucy X. , Taylor Kirsty , Espin‐Garcia Osvaldo , Anconina Reut , Suzuki Chihiro , Allen Michael J. , Honorio Marta , Bach Yvonne , Allison Frances , Chen Eric X. , Brar Savtaj , Swallow Carol J. , Yeung Jonathan , Darling Gail E. , Wong Rebecca , Kalimuthu Sangeetha N. , Jang Raymond W. , Veit‐Haibach Patrick , Elimova Elena
Published: December 2020

Background

Malnutrition and sarcopenia are poor prognostic factors in many cancers. Studies in gastric and esophageal (GE) cancer have focused on curative intent patients. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic utility of malnutrition and sarcopenia in de novo metastatic GE adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Patients with de novo metastatic GE adenocarcinoma seen at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre from 2010 to 2016 with an available pre‐treatment abdominal computed tomography (CT) were included. Malnutrition was defined as nutritional risk index (NRI) <97.5. Skeletal muscle index (SMI) was measured at the L3 level (sarcopenia defined as SMI <34.4 cm2/m2 in women and <45.4 cm2/m2 in men). Patients receiving chemotherapy had NRI and SMI recalculated at the time of first restaging CT.

Results

Of 175 consecutive patients, 33% were malnourished and 39% were sarcopenic at baseline. Patients with pretreatment malnourishment had significantly shorter overall survival (OS; 5.8 vs. 10.9 months, p = 0.000475). Patients who became malnourished during chemotherapy had worse OS compared to those who maintained their nutrition (12.2 vs. 17.5 months p = 0.0484). On univariable analysis, ECOG (p < 0.001), number of metastatic sites (p = 0.029) and NRI (p < 0.001) were significant prognostic factors while BMI (p = 0.57) and sarcopenia (p = 0.19) were not. On multivariable analysis, ECOG (p < 0.001), baseline NRI (p = 0.025), and change in NRI during treatment (p < 0.001) were significant poor prognostic factors for OS.

Conclusions

In de novo metastatic GE adenocarcinoma patients, ECOG, pretreatment NRI and change in NRI were significant prognostic factors for OS while sarcopenia was not. Use of NRI at baseline and during treatment can provide useful prognostic information.
Management of life‐threatening post‐traumatic otorrhagia
Authors: Rivera Gabriel , Lajud Shayanne , Gonzalez Leonardo , Garratón Miguel , Labat Eduardo
Published: December 2020

Otorrhagia can be life‐threatening, and acute control of the hemorrhage using easily accessible and practical techniques in the otolaryngology field such as Merocel packing and Kerlix gauze pressure dressing is essential to manage this complication.
Coupling Alternating Current and Biosorption for the Removal of Hexavalent Chromium
Authors: Mbarki Fatma , Othmani Amina , Kesraoui Aida , Seffen Mongi
Published: December 2020

The effect of coupling alternating current (AC) with biosorption using Tunisian corn stigmata on the removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from aqueous solution was studied. A comparative study was performed between biosorption alone and biosorption coupled with AC, for the removal of Cr(VI). The effects of various operating parameters were studied, such as the solution pH, the contact time, the initial concentration, the temperature, and the salt concentration. The comparison between biosorption in the presence and absence of an AC shows the importance of the AC in the acceleration of the biosorption process. The kinetic study showed that the fractal Brouers‐Sotolongo model was the best model for describing the random distribution of the active sites.
Enthalpically and Entropically Favorable Self‐Assembly: Synthesis of C4h‐Symmetric Tetraazatetrathia[8]circulenes by Regioselective Introduction of Pyridine Rings
Authors: Akahori Shuhei , Sasamori Takahiro , Shinokubo Hiroshi , Miyake Yoshihiro
Published: December 2020

Self‐assembly of π‐conjugated molecules in solution generally occurs owing to either an enthalpic or an entropic gain; however, designing π‐conjugated systems that simultaneously exhibit enthalpically and entropically favorable self‐assembly behavior is challenging. Herein, the self‐assembly behavior of tetraazatetrathia[8]circulenes is disclosed, which is driven by both enthalpy and entropy. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis demonstrated that molecules of these tetraazatetrathia[8]circulenes form face‐to‐face stacked dimers with a 1D columnar structure owing to the circularly arranged dipole moments. Importantly, concentration‐ and temperature‐dependent 1H NMR spectra revealed that the formation of self‐assemblies of tetraazatetrathia[8]circulenes in chloroform and methanol is favored by both enthalpic and entropic factors. The unique association behavior is due to the presence of sp2‐hybridized nitrogen atoms, which weakly coordinate to the hydrogen atoms of these solvents and reduce the π‐electron density of the circulene cores.
Matthias Kraume – Forschung und Lehre
Authors: Böhm Lutz
Published: December 2020

No abstract.
Cystic adrenal lesions: A report of five cases
Authors: Goel Divya , Enny Loreno , Rana Chanchal , Ramakant Pooja , Singh Kulranjan , Babu Suresh , Mishra Anand
Published: December 2020

Background

Cystic adrenal lesions are rare and uncommon manifestation with few cases reported so far. Different types of adrenal cysts have been described with heterogeneous etiology and overlapping clinical findings, ranging from benign to malignant cystic neoplasm. They are usually asymptomatic or may rarely present with abdominal pain or fullness. Optimum management of adrenal cysts still remain controversial, owing to its low incidence. In this study, we report our institutional experience on diagnosis and management of different histological types of cystic adrenal lesions.

Cases

During 4 years period, 55 patients underwent adrenalectomy with five cases presenting as adrenal cysts. All the five patients were biochemically nonfunctional and underwent adrenalectomy (laparoscopic anterior n = 2, retroperitoneoscopic approach n = 1, and open anterior transperitoneal approach n = 2). The primary indications for surgery were larger size and/or suspicion of malignancy. Histological evaluation revealed two epithelial cysts, one endothelial cyst, one pseudocyst, and a very rare case of adrenocortical carcinoma arising in a pseudocyst.

Conclusion

Cystic adrenal lesions are rare with varied etiologic and clinical presentation that may sometimes lead to diagnostic and management dilemma. These cases must undergo biochemical and radiological evaluation to rule out underlying malignancy followed by referral for surgical intervention.
Primary branchiogenic carcinoma: malignant degeneration of a branchial cyst, a case report
Authors: Colella Giuseppe , Boschetti Ciro Emiliano , Spuntarelli Chiara , De Cicco Davide , Cozzolino Immacolata , Montella Marco , Tartaro Gianpaolo
Published: December 2020

Background

Primary branchiogenic carcinoma (PBC) is an extremely rare and poorly documented disease developed from a brachial cleft cyst.

Case

A 51‐year‐old patient was referred to our unit for an upper neck mass. PBC was confirmed in accordance with Kahfif's diagnostic criteria. Prophylactic selective neck dissection was performed in a second‐stage surgery to ensure the complete removal of the neoplasm. Branchiogenic origin with lymphoid tissue was confirmed in the “host cyst” after histological examination and no other tumors were found elsewhere. Regular follow up documented no relapse 12 months after surgery.

Conclusions

Although rare, PBC must be suspected in presence of cervical masses, especially in patients older than 40 years. A standardized treatment algorithm still lacks, but prophylactic selective neck dissection could be considered as the first line choice after the diagnosis has been confirmed.
The association between cumulative radiation dose and the incidence of severe oral mucositis in head and neck cancers during radiotherapy
Authors: Sunaga Tomiko , Nagatani Akiko , Fujii Naokazu , Hashimoto Touji , Watanabe Toru , Sasaki Tadanori
Published: December 2020

Background

Quality of life can be influenced by oral mucositis (OM), and it is necessary to implement OM management strategies before the initiation of radiotherapy (RT) in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC).

Aims

To examine the association between the cumulative radiation dose and the incidence of severe OM in HNC patients receiving RT.

Methods and results

A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted in a Showa University Fujigaoka Hospital, in Japan. We retrospectively analyzed 94 patients with HNC who developed OM during RT. We defined OM as a more than grade 2 OM. The cumulative incidence of OM curves of the two categories was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log‐rank test. We estimated the hazard ratio (HR) for OM after the adjustment of factors for covariates using Cox's regression analysis. Patients with smoking history had a significantly later development of OM than those with no smoking history (20 Gy‐incidence OM 68.7% vs 39.7%, P = .003). In contrast, patients undergoing concurrent chemotherapy had an earlier development of OM than those undergoing RT alone (20 Gy‐incidence OM 24.2% vs 55.7%, P < .001). Multivariate analysis revealed that no smoking history and concurrent chemotherapy were independent predictive factors, with a HR of 0.526 (P = .025) and 2.690 (P < .001), respectively.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that no smoking history and concurrent chemotherapy may be predictive of OM in HNC patients.
Identification of similar epitopes between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 and Bacillus Calmette–Guérin: potential for cross‐reactive adaptive immunity
Authors: Urbán Szabolcs , Paragi Gábor , Burián Katalin , McLean Gary R , Virok Dezső P
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination has been implicated in protection against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and as a non‐specific immunisation method against the virus. We therefore decided to investigate T‐cell and B‐cell epitopes within the BCG‐Pasteur strain proteome for similarity to immunogenic peptides of SARS‐CoV‐2.

Methods

We used NetMHC 4.0 and BepiPred 2.0 epitope prediction methods for the analysis of the BCG‐Pasteur proteome to identify similar peptides to established and novel SARS‐CoV‐2 T‐cell and B‐cell epitopes.

Results

We found 112 BCG MHC‐I‐restricted T‐cell epitopes similar to MHC‐I‐restricted T‐cell SARS‐CoV‐2 epitopes and 690 BCG B‐cell epitopes similar to SARS‐CoV‐2 B‐cell epitopes. The SARS‐CoV‐2 T‐cell epitopes represented 16 SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins, and the SARS‐CoV‐2 B‐cell epitopes represented 5 SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins, including the receptor binding domain of the spike glycoprotein.

Conclusion

Altogether, our results provide a mechanistic basis for the potential cross‐reactive adaptive immunity that may exist between the two microorganisms.
A molecular phylogeny of historical and contemporary specimens of an under‐studied micro‐invertebrate group
Authors: Orr Russell J. S. , Sannum Maja M. , Boessenkool Sanne , Di Martino Emanuela , Gordon Dennis P. , Mello Hannah L. , Obst Matthias , Ramsfjell Mali H. , Smith Abigail M. , Liow Lee Hsiang
Published: December 2020

Resolution of relationships at lower taxonomic levels is crucial for answering many evolutionary questions, and as such, sufficiently varied species representation is vital. This latter goal is not always achievable with relatively fresh samples. To alleviate the difficulties in procuring rarer taxa, we have seen increasing utilization of historical specimens in building molecular phylogenies using high throughput sequencing. This effort, however, has mainly focused on large‐bodied or well‐studied groups, with small‐bodied and under‐studied taxa under‐prioritized. Here, we utilize both historical and contemporary specimens, to increase the resolution of phylogenetic relationships among a group of under‐studied and small‐bodied metazoans, namely, cheilostome bryozoans. In this study, we pioneer the sequencing of air‐dried cheilostomes, utilizing a recently developed library preparation method for low DNA input. We evaluate a de novo mitogenome assembly and two iterative methods, using the sequenced target specimen as a reference for mapping, for our sequences. In doing so, we present mitochondrial and ribosomal RNA sequences of 43 cheilostomes representing 37 species, including 14 from historical samples ranging from 50 to 149 years old. The inferred phylogenetic relationships of these samples, analyzed together with publicly available sequence data, are shown in a statistically well‐supported 65 taxa and 17 genes cheilostome tree, which is also the most broadly sampled and largest to date. The robust phylogenetic placement of historical samples whose contemporary conspecifics and/or congenerics have been sequenced verifies the appropriateness of our workflow and gives confidence in the phylogenetic placement of those historical samples for which there are no close relatives sequenced. The success of our workflow is highlighted by the circularization of a total of 27 mitogenomes, seven from historical cheilostome samples. Our study highlights the potential of utilizing DNA from micro‐invertebrate specimens stored in natural history collections for resolving phylogenetic relationships among species.
Lateral and longitudinal fish environmental DNA distribution in dynamic riverine habitats
Authors: Thalinger Bettina , Kirschner Dominik , Pütz Yannick , Moritz Christian , Schwarzenberger Richard , Wanzenböck Josef , Traugott Michael
Published: December 2020

Assessing the status and distribution of fish populations in rivers is essential for management and conservation efforts in these dynamic habitats. Currently, methods detecting environmental DNA (eDNA) are being established as an alternative and/or complementary approach to the traditional monitoring of fish species. In lotic systems, a sound understanding of hydrological conditions and their influence on the local target detection probability and DNA quantity is key for the interpretation of eDNA‐based results. However, the effect of seasonal and diurnal changes in discharge and the comparability of semi‐quantitative results between species remain hardly addressed. We conducted a cage experiment with four fish species (three salmonid and one cyprinid species) in a glacier‐fed, fish‐free river in Tyrol (Austria) during summer, fall, and winter discharge situations (i.e., 25‐fold increase from winter to summer). Each season, water samples were obtained on three consecutive days at 13 locations downstream of the cages including lateral sampling every 1–2 m across the wetted width. Fish eDNA was quantified by species‐specific endpoint PCR followed by capillary electrophoresis. Close to the cages, lateral eDNA distribution was heterogenous and mirrored cage placement within the stream. In addition to the diluting effect of increased discharge, longitudinal signal changes within the first 20 m were weakest at high discharge. For downstream locations with laterally homogenous eDNA distribution, the signals decreased significantly with increasing distance and discharge. Generally, the eDNA of the larger‐bodied salmonid species was less frequently detected, and signal strengths were lower compared to the cyprinid species. This study exemplifies the importance of hydrological conditions for the interpretation of eDNA‐based data across seasons. To control for heterogenous eDNA distribution and enable comparisons over time, sampling schemes in lotic habitats need to incorporate hydrological conditions and species traits.
Time‐dependent changes in plasma xanthine oxidoreductase during hospitalization of acute heart failure
Authors: Okazaki Hirotake , Shirakabe Akihiro , Matsushita Masato , Shibata Yusaku , Shigihara Shota , Sawatani Tomofumi , Tani Kenichi , Kiuchi Kazutaka , Otsuka Yusuke , Murase Takayo , Nakamura Takashi , Kobayashi Nobuaki , Hata Noritake , Asai Kuniya , Shimizu Wataru
Published: December 2020

Aims

The aim of present study is to evaluate the clinical significance of the time‐dependent changes in xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) activity during hospitalization for acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods and results

A total of 229 AHF patients who visited to emergency room were prospectively enrolled, and 187 patients were analysed. Blood samples were collected within 15 min of admission (Day 1), after 48–72 h (Day 3), and between Days 7 and 21 (Day 14). The AHF patients were divided into two groups according to the XOR activity on Day 1: the high‐XOR group (≥100 pmol/h/mL, n = 85) and the low‐XOR group (<100 pmol/h/mL, n = 102). The high‐XOR patients were assigned to two groups according to the rate of change in XOR from Day 1 to Day 14: the decreased group (≥50% decrease; n = 70) and the non‐decreased group (<50% decrease; n = 15). The plasma XOR activity significantly decreased on Days 3 and 14 [23.6 (9.1 to 63.1) pmol/h/mL and 32.5 (10.2 to 87.8) pmol/h/mL, respectively] in comparison with Day 1 [78.5 (16.9 to 340.5) pmol/h/mL]. A Kaplan–Meier curve indicated that the prognosis, including heart failure (HF) events (all‐cause death and readmission by HF) within 365 days, was significantly poorer in the low‐XOR patients than in the high‐XOR patients and was also significantly poorer in the non‐decreased group than in the decreased group.

Conclusions

The plasma XOR activity was rapidly decreased by the appropriate treatment of AHF. Although high‐XOR activity on admission was not associated with increased HF events in AHF, high‐XOR activity that was not sufficiently reduced during appropriate treatment was associated with increased HF events.
Combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of diesel engine with nanocera added water emulsified Mahua biodiesel blend
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Raheman Hifjur
Published: December 2020

The present study was conducted to investigate the combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of a 10 kW, single cylinder, direct injection diesel engine using cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanocera) added water emulsified Mahua biodiesel blend (NWEB) vis‐à‐vis water emulsified Mahua biodiesel blend (WEB), B20, and diesel. NWEB was prepared with 69.7 ppm of cerium oxide nanoparticles, 1% surfactants, 10% water, and 2,500 rpm of stirrer. After measuring the fuel properties of test fuels, these were used to run the diesel engine at different engine loads and combustion, performance, and emission parameters were measured. The peak pressure rise rate significantly reduced with NWEB replacing diesel. CA10 and C50 points were observed earlier for NWEB as compared to base fuels. The rapid combustion, controlled combustion, and total combustion duration reduced by more than 5.0, 4.0, and 4.6%, respectively, in engine operation with NWEB over diesel and B20. The maximum brake thermal efficiency of 30.41% was recorded for NWEB as compared to 28.25% for diesel. The mean brake‐specific fuel consumption was 3.76 and 3.93% lesser with NWEB as compared to B20 and WEB, respectively. The mean EGT, BSCO, BSHC, and BSNOxwere reduced by 5.4, 30.8, 43.7, and 26.9%, respectively, with NWEB over diesel.
Feasibility of using near‐azeotropic refrigerant mixture R290/R1234ze(E) as substitute for R22
Authors: Wang Lele , Li Huixiong , Wu Jiahuan , Qiu Ke
Published: December 2020

The flammability and explosiveness are the disadvantages of the application of R290 practically as an alternative refrigerant of R22. However, adding flame‐retardant R1234ze(E) to R290 can make up for those shortcomings. The refrigerant mixture R290/R1234ze(E) with mass ratio 55%:45% (coded RC01) was proposed to replace R22. The data of RC01 were obtained by calculating using the refrigerant software REFPROP9.1. The environmental impact indexes, temperature glide characteristics, thermodynamic and thermophysical properties, theoretical thermodynamic cycle performances, safety, and lubrication properties of RC01 were analyzed and compared with that of R22, R410A, R407C, R290, R1234ze(E), respectively. The results show that the RC01, with the ozone depletion potential of 0 and global warming potential of 12, is a near‐azeotropic refrigerant whose glide temperature is approximately 0, and it has better thermodynamic and thermophysical properties as well as theoretical thermodynamic cycle performances. The RC01 also has good lubrication characteristics and low flammability. So it is technically feasible to replace R22.
Feasibility study on a mini autonomous biosensor based on microbial fuel cell for monitoring hexavalent chromium in wastewater
Authors: Wang Chin‐Tsan , Ubando Aristotle T. , Katiyar Vimal , Li T‐Ting , Lin Yu‐An , Culaba Alvin B. , Jang Jer‐Huan
Published: December 2020

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are considered as power generation devices for sustainable energy. However, the power generated is insignificant compared to other energy production devices. In this study, a mini autonomous biosensor (MAB) based on MFCs has been designed for detecting hazardous hexavalent chromium in wastewater. Hexavalent chromium has been classified as a human carcinogen causing serious birth defects due to its mutagenic and teratogenic properties. The power generated by the MAB has been investigated to study the feasibility of providing power to itself. In addition, electrochemical analyses of conductive silver paste and carbon cloth as the anode were conducted in the MAB for detecting hexavalent chromium in the anode chamber. Results show that a maximum voltage of 518.17 mV and a power density of 1.075 mW/cm2 could be achieved using carbon cloth with an external resistance of 1000 Ω, while a higher limiting current density of 0.015 mA/cm2 could be achieved with conductive silver glue as the anode electrode. Besides, the voltage output of the MAB decreased rapidly with the addition of hexavalent chromium into the wastewater. Also, the recovery time for the MAB was much shorter than found in previous studies. The MAB demonstrated potential for simultaneous production of electricity and detection of hexavalent chromium, which would open up avenues for autosensing applications in the environment as well as smart powering devices. Results indicate that the MAB with conductive silver glue as anode electrode is feasible for detecting hexavalent chromium in wastewater.
The protective effect of sulforaphane on type II diabetes induced by high‐fat diet and low‐dosage streptozotocin
Authors: Tian Shuhua , Li Xiangfei , Wang Yunfan , Lu Yingjian
Published: December 2020

Sulforaphane (SFN) which is abundant in broccoli florets, seeds, and sprouts has been reported to have beneficial effects on attenuating metabolic diseases, such as antiobesity, antidiabetes, and antioxidative activities. However, the effects of SFN on the regulation of type II diabetes through easing nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) and repairing pancreas tissue are rarely reported. In this study, we found that the administration with different dosages of SFN was able to increase serum insulin level, enhance HOMA‐β index, decrease fasting blood glucose and serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL‐C), fibroblast growth factor21 (FGF21) levels, ease NAFLD level, and repair the pancreas tissue. In addition, SFN was able to increase liver antioxidant capacities. In particular, high (10 mg/kg) dosage of SFN exerted a significant beneficial effect for decreasing serum lipopolysaccharide levels. Furthermore, the administration of SFN could also decrease the relative abundance of Allobaculum at the genus level. Low dosage (2 mg/kg) of SFN could increase the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and decrease the relative abundance of Firmicutes at the phylum level. Overall, our results showed that SFN exerted its antidiabetic effect through easing NAFLD and repairing pancreas tissue in association with modulation of gut microbiota. The ease of NAFLD by SFN was accompanied by enhancing liver antioxidant abilities and improving FGF21 resistance.
Examining volumetric gradients based on the frustum surface ratio in the brain in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Mann Caroline , Schäfer Tim , Bletsch Anke , Gudbrandsen Maria , Daly Eileen , Suckling John , Bullmore Edward T. , Lombardo Michael V. , Lai Meng‐Chuan , Craig Michael C. ,   MRC AIMS Consortium, Baron‐Cohen Simon , Murphy Declan G.M. , Ecker Christine
Published: December 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that is accompanied by neurodevelopmental differences in regional cortical volume (CV), and a potential layer‐specific pathology. Conventional measures of CV, however, do not indicate how volume is distributed across cortical layers. In a sample of 92 typically developing (TD) controls and 92 adult individuals with ASD (aged 18–52 years), we examined volumetric gradients by quantifying the degree to which CV is weighted from the pial to the white surface of the brain. Overall, the spatial distribution of Frustum Surface Ratio (FSR) followed the gyral and sulcal pattern of the cortex and approximated a bimodal Gaussian distribution caused by a linear mixture of vertices on gyri and sulci. Measures of FSR were highly correlated with vertex‐wise estimates of mean curvature, sulcal depth, and pial surface area, although none of these features explained more than 76% variability in FSR on their own. Moreover, in ASD, we observed a pattern of predominant increases in the degree of FSR relative to TD controls, with an atypical neurodevelopmental trajectory. Our findings suggest a more outward‐weighted gradient of CV in ASD, which may indicate a larger contribution of supragranular layers to regional differences in CV.
In reply to Kumar et al, Is TORS for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma being done more often than actually indicated?
Authors: Bates James E. , Amdur Robert J.
Published: December 2020

see page 1376–1377.
Clinical characteristics and outcome of patients over 60 years with Hodgkin lymphoma treated in Switzerland
Authors: Moccia A. A. , Aeppli S. , Güsewell S. , Bargetzi M. , Caspar C. , Brülisauer D. , Ebnöther M. , Fehr M. , Fischer N. , Ghilardi G. , Krasniqi F. , Lang N. , Mey U. , Mingrone W. , Novak U. , Pfleger C. , Richter P. , Rütti M. , Schmidt A. , Stenner F. , Voegeli M. , Zander T. , Zucca E. , Hitz F.
Published: December 2020

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) in older patients appears to be a different disease compared with younger patients with historically lower survival rates. This is related to a variety of factors, including increased treatment‐related toxicity, the presence of comorbidities, and biologic differences. In order to better assess the clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcome of this particular population, we conducted a population‐based, retrospective analysis including 269 patients with HL older than 60 years (median age 71 years, range 60–94), treated between 2000 and 2017 in 15 referral centers across Switzerland. Primary endpoints were overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and cause‐specific survival (CSS). The vast majority of patients were treated with curative intent, either with a combined modality approach (chemotherapy followed by radiation therapy) or with systemic therapy. At a median follow‐up of 6.6 years (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.0–7.6), 5‐year PFS was 52.2% (95% CI, 46.0–59.2), 5‐year OS was 62.5% (95% CI, 56.4–69.2), and 5‐year CSS was 85.1.8% (95% CI, 80.3–90.1) for the entire cohort. A significant difference in terms of CSS was observed for patients older than 71 years in comparison to patients aged 60–70 years (hazard ratio 2.6, 1.3–5.0, p = 0.005). Bleomycin‐induced lung toxicity (BLT) was documented in 26 patients (17.7%) out of the 147 patients exposed to this compound and was more frequent in patients older than 71 years (15/60, 25%). Outcome of HL pts older than 71 years appeared to decrease substantially in comparison to the younger counterpart. Treatment‐related toxicities appeared to be relevant, in particular, BLT. New, potentially less toxic strategies need to be investigated in prospective clinical trials in this particular frail population.
Fluorescent Sensors of Phosphate Containing Biomolecules
Authors: Nag Arundhati , Das Samir
Published: December 2020

Phosphates are an essential functional group in living organisms. Phosphates are required to synthesize ATP, the energy unit in cells, and the synthesis of DNA and RNA, phosphoproteins, phospholipids, and various metabolites. This article is focused on reviewing current research on fluorescent sensing of biologically relevant phosphate functionalities in an aqueous environment or more complex environments such as live cells. There are three different approaches for the fluorescent detection of phosphates. These involve using metal‐ligand complexes as sensors, using metal‐free small molecules as sensors, and using protein or peptide molecules as sensors. The utilization of these approaches for fluorescent sensing of different phosphate‐containing biomolecule classes such as nucleoside polyphosphates, phosphorylated peptides, phosphorylated proteins, pyrophosphates, phospholipids, and RNA are discussed.
Perceptions of Portuguese parents about the acceptability of a multicomponent intervention targeted at behavioral inhibition during early childhood
Authors: Guedes Maryse , Matos Inês , Almeida Telma , Freitas Miguel , Alves Stephanie , Santos António J. , Verissimo Manuela , Chronis‐Tuscano Andrea , Rubin Kenneth H.
Published: December 2020

High and stable behavioral inhibition during early childhood is a risk factor for later anxiety disorders. The few available interventions targeted at behavioral inhibition have not yet been implemented in European countries. Evaluating intervention acceptability is essential when introducing interventions in new cultures. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of parents about the acceptability of the multicomponent Turtle Program in Portugal. Participants were 12 parents (from seven families) of children with a positive screening on the Behavioral Inhibition Questionnaire and no diagnoses of developmental disorders/selective mutism. Children's mean age was 55.86 months and most children were female and first‐born. Parents and children participated in the eight‐sessions Turtle Program. After each session, parents completed weekly satisfaction checklists. Following completion of the full intervention, parents were invited to participate in individual qualitative in‐depth interviews. The thematic analysis revealed that both parents perceived the intervention objectives and contents as relevant. Both parents suggested the introduction of follow‐up sessions, the discussion of practical experiences, the need to be sensitive to cultural differences in positive language, and the provision of more feedback about children's activities. These findings support prior research on the acceptability and cultural tailoring needed for parenting and child socioemotional learning interventions.
Elevated microRNA‐130b‐5p or silenced ELK1 inhibits self‐renewal ability, proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities, and promotes apoptosis of cervical cancer stem cells
Authors: Huang Yu , Luo Fangyuan
Published: December 2020

Cervical cancer (CC) is the most familiar gynecological malignancy. With the poor prognosis of CC patients, this study explored the effect of microRNA (miR)‐130b‐5p targeting ELK1 expression on self‐renewal ability and stemness of CC stem cells. The tissues of patients with CC or cervical benign lesions were collected. MiR‐130b‐5p and ELK1 expression was detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Human CC cell line Hela was cultured and the induced CC stem cells were introduced with miR‐130b‐5p mimic or silenced ELK1 to figure their roles in self‐renewal ability, stemness, colony formation, proliferation, migration, invasion abilities, and apoptosis of CC stem cells. Tumor growth was detected in nude mice in vivo. The targeting relationship between miR‐130b‐5p and ELK1 was analyzed using bioinformatic prediction and dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Decreased miR‐130b‐5p and elevated ELK1 existed in CC tissues of patients. Up‐regulated miR‐130b‐5p decreased ELK1 expression in CC stem cells. Elevated miR‐130b‐5p or silenced ELK1 inhibited self‐renewal ability and stemness, colony formation, proliferation, migration and invasion abilities, promoted apoptosis of CC stem cells, as well as decreased the weight and volume of tumor in nude mice. ELK1 was found to be targeted by miR‐130b‐5p. Overexpression ELK1 effectively reversed the cellular phenotypic changes and tumor formation in vivo caused by up‐regulation of miR‐130b‐5p. We conclude that up‐regulated miR‐130b‐5p or silenced ELK1 inhibits CC stem cell growth.
Speckle contrast diffuse correlation tomography of cerebral blood flow in perinatal disease model of neonatal piglets
Authors: Huang Chong , Mazdeyasna Siavash , Mohtasebi Mehrana , Saatman Kathryn E. , Cheng Qiang , Yu Guoqiang , Chen Lei
Published: December 2020

We adapted and tested an innovative noncontact speckle contrast diffuse correlation tomography (scDCT) system for 3D imaging of cerebral blood flow (CBF) variations in perinatal disease models utilizing neonatal piglets, which closely resemble human neonates. CBF variations were concurrently measured by the scDCT and an established diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) during global ischemia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and asphyxia; significant correlations were observed. Moreover, CBF variations associated reasonably with vital pathophysiological changes. In contrast to DCS measurements of mixed signals from local scalp, skull and brain, scDCT generates 3D images of CBF distributions at prescribed depths within the head, thus enabling specific determination of regional cerebral ischemia. With further optimization and validation in animals and human neonates, scDCT has the potential to be a noninvasive imaging tool for both basic neuroscience research in laboratories and clinical applications in neonatal intensive care units.