bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversification of crown groupAraucaria: the role ofAraucaria famiisp. nov. in the Late Cretaceous (Campanian) radiation of Araucariaceae in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Stockey Ruth A. , Rothwell Gar W.
Published: July 2020

Premise

Exceptional anatomical preservation of a fossil araucarian seed cone from a marine carbonate concretion from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada provides unusually complete evidence for cone structure including seeds, megagametophytes, microgametophytes, and embryos of an Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) species ofAraucaria, providing important new insights into the structure and relationships of Cretaceous Northern Hemisphere Araucariaceae.

Methods

The cone was studied from serial thin sections prepared by the coal ball peel technique. Phylogenetic analysis using a modified morphological matrix with both discrete and continuous characters was performed using TNT version 1.5.

Results

The nearly spherical cone, 6 × 6 cm in diameter, has helically arranged cone‐scale complexes, consisting of a large bract with an upturned tip and a small, fleshy ovuliferous scale. Vascularization of the cone‐scale complex is single at its origin. Widely winged bracts, with a bulging base, contain numerous vascular bundles, interspersed with transfusion tissue, and a large number of resin canals. Seeds are ovoid, 1.2 cm long, 1.2 cm in diameter. Nucellus is free from the integument, except at its base, with a convoluted apex, containing possible pollen tubes. Megagametophytes and mature cellular embryos occur in several seeds.

Conclusions

This small cone with attached, imbricate leaves, wide bracts, and unusually large seeds, most closely resembles those ofAraucariaSectionEutacta. Width and continuity of secondary xylem in the cone axis, and intact cone‐scale complexes indicate that this cone probably did not disarticulate readily at maturity. When added to a modified, previously published phylogenetic analysis,Araucaria famiisp. nov. enhances our understanding of the Cretaceous radiation of Northern HemisphereAraucariaSectionEutacta.
A Gallium(III) Complex that Engages Protein Disulfide Isomerase A3 (PDIA3) as an Anticancer Target
Authors: Yin Hao‐Yan , Gao Jiu‐Jiao , Chen Xuemin , Ma Bin , Yang Zi‐Shu , Tang Juan , Wang Bing‐Wu , Chen Tianfeng , Wang Chu , Gao Song , Zhang Jun‐Long
Published: July 2020

Gallium(III)‐based drugs have gained momentum in cancer therapy due to their iron‐dependent anticancer activity. Judicious choice of ligands is critical for improved oral bioavailability, antitumor efficacy, and distinct mechanisms from simple GaIII salts. We describe GaIII complexes with planar tetradentate salen ligands [salen=2,3‐bis[(4‐dialkylamino‐2‐hydroxybenzylidene)amino]but‐2‐enedinitrile)] and labile axial solvent ligands, which display tumor growth inhibition in vitro and in vivo comparable to cisplatin. Confocal fluorescence microscopy, western blotting, mRNA profiling, chemical proteomics, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) studies provide compelling evidence that PDIA3, a member of the protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family involved in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, is a direct target of Ga‐1. This work offers a new route to designing and synthesizing Ga‐based drugs, and also reveals that PDIA3 is an important anticancer target.
Oral Insulin Delivery Platforms: Strategies To Address the Biological Barriers
Authors: Xiao Yufen , Tang Zhongmin , Wang Junqing , Liu Chuang , Kong Na , Farokhzad Omid C. , Tao Wei
Published: July 2020

Diabetes mellitus is a lifelong metabolic disease that requires frequent subcutaneous injections of insulin. However, this method of administration can be associated with patient discomfort and local tissue infection. Oral delivery of insulin has been pursued as a more convenient method for diabetes treatment, given its likely superior patient compliance and convenience as well as cost‐effectiveness. However, various biological barriers hinder the clinical translation of oral insulin. The rapid development of nanotechnology over the last decade offers great promise in improving the bioavailability of oral insulin. This Minireview provides an overview of biological barriers to oral insulin delivery, summarizes significant technological advances, and outlines future perspectives in oral insulin formulations as well as their hypoglycaemic effects.
Single‐phase photo‐cross‐linkable adhesive synthesized from methacrylic acid‐grafted 1‐decene/9‐decene‐1‐ol cooligomer
Authors: Hanifpour Ahad , Bahri‐Laleh Naeimeh , Nekoomanesh‐Haghighi Mehdi
Published: July 2020

The cooligomerization of 1‐decene with 9‐decene‐1‐ol was conducted by using a Ti amine bis‐phenolate catalyst. Light‐curable adhesive was prepared by the reaction of methacryloyl chloride with the hydroxyl groups of the synthesized cooligomer, which led to the introduction of photo‐polymerizable CC double bonds into the cooligomer chains. Comonomer insertion into 1‐decene oligomeic chains and also methacryloyl chloride reaction with cooligomer were confirmed by both FT‐IR and NMR spectroscopy. Three‐point bending analysis results of cured adhesive sample (cured with blue light) showed flexural modulus and flexural strength values of 1.41 GPa and 1.66 MPa, respectively. Maximum weight loss temperature of 444°C showed high thermal stability of cured adhesive sample. In order to explore adhesion abilities of the synthesized adhesive to different substrates including polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), nylon and aluminum (Al), tensile shear bond strength, and peeling tests were conducted. Synthesized adhesive demonstrated tensile shear strength values of 1.28, 1.95, 1.10, 2.15, and 2.42 N/mm2 for PMMA, PC, PS, nylon, and Al substrates, respectively. Furthermore, obtained adhesive indicated greater tendency to polar substrates in comparison to nonpolar ones by the factor of 16–95%. Obtained results suggested a new photo‐curable adhesive with privileged features, which has capability to be used in high temperature applications.
Detection of World War II field fortifications using ALS and archival aerial images – German OKH Stellung b1 trenches in the south of the Polish Carpathians
Authors: Jucha Witold , Franczak Paweł , Sadowski Piotr
Published: July 2020

This article recreates the spatial distribution of German field fortifications in the mountains of Central Europe. The fortifications in question were located in the southern part of the Polish Carpathians. This particular section is a fragment of the Oberkommando des Heeres Stellung b1 (OKH Stellung b1), built in 1944, and running from north to south through all of German‐occupied Poland. Determining the course of the studied fortifications is based on the use of two remote sensing materials for data acquisition: archival military aerial photographs taken in 1944 and high‐resolution terrain derivative models based on data from airborne laser scanning (ALS). Some sections were additionally checked during the field study.

Creating a reconstruction is impossible without the use of both remote sensing data sources. Only 24% of the studied fortifications are visible in both the aerial photographs and the ALS model. Aerial photographs are better suited to the photointerpretation of trenches in arable land and near buildings. Objects in these places may have been buried or otherwise ceased to be visible as relief microforms. The ALS model is especially useful in wooded areas. Laser scanning with a large number of measurements enabled the implementation of a detailed model which also included the course of trenches under the tree canopy. Combining both source materials gave a spatial image of approximately a 30 km section of the fortified line. The total length of the fortifications was 85.412 km. The reconstructed line consists of two parallel trench lines with excavations for machine gun nests and shelters, as well as isolated points of defence located in the mountains near the current border.
Ethical Responses to the Covid‐19 Pandemic: Implications for the Ethos and Practice of Anatomy as a Health Science Discipline
Authors: Jones David Gareth
Published: July 2020

The move of much anatomy teaching online in response to the Covid‐19 pandemic has been successfully implemented within very short time frames. This has necessitated a high degree of dependence upon the use of digitized cadaveric resources, has entailed immense workload demands on staff, and has disrupted students' studies. These educational exigencies have been accompanied by ethical uncertainties for a discipline centered on study of the dead human body. An ethical framework for anatomy is suggested based on the principles of equal concern and respect, minimization of harm, fairness, and reciprocity, in which all staff and students are to be treated with respect and as moral equals. A series of ethical obligations are proposed as a means of maintaining the ethos of anatomy, coping with the suspension of body donation, providing adequate resources, and responding to increased dependence upon external providers. Good academic practice raises more general obligations stemming from the welfare of students, the increased workload of staff, and checking on online assessment and invigilation. As anatomists respond to the educational and ethical lessons prompted by this pandemic, they should plan for future disruptions to normal work patterns by adopting a sustainable and equitable course of action.
A Lead‐free Organicnorganic Halide Perovskite Absorber with Photoconductive Response
Authors: Wang Yuyin , Han Shiguo , Liu Yi , Li Yaobin , Sun Zhihua , Luo Junhua
Published: July 2020

Perovskite hybrids of lead organometal halides, (e. g., CH3NH3PbX3, X=Cl, Br, I) have gained wide attention since their spectacular progress on optoelectronic technologies in recent years. However, it still remains the fundamental problem, namely, the existence of the toxic, bioaccumulative, polluting element Pb and the instability of humidity. In particular, the use of toxic Pb severely limits the broad applications and commercialization of lead‐containing optoelectronic devices, and finding an alternative that preserves the unique optoelectronic properties of the lead halide perovskite is highly urgent. Bi3+ exhibits isoelectronic behavior similar to that of Pb2+ in terms of ion radius and electronegativity, which is expected as an environmentally friendly alternative for lead. However, 1D Bi‐based hybrid organic‐inorganic light‐absorbing materials with pyridinium are not numerous. Although great progress has been made, the research on photoresponse behavior are still rarely reported. Here, we present a lead‐free organic‐inorganic hybrid absorber with photoconductive response, (C5H7N2)BiI4 (1, C5H7N2+ is 2‐aminopyridinium), which displays a narrow optical bandgap of ∼1.8 eV. Equally importantly, 1 not only features highly applicable properties, but is also able to absorb across most of the UV/Vis region of the solar spectrum. Furthermore, high‐quality single crystal with sizes up to 7×6×4 mm3 was successfully grown. In addition, 1 exhibited extremely low dark current (2×10−11 A) at the bias of 10 V, which indicates that the indicator of 1 is an order of magnitude lower than other reported perovskite photodetectors. Moreover, photocurrent on/off switches is faster (∼670 ms), indicating that 1 can be a promising photosensitive switch. These intriguing properties, namely the lead‐free composition, a small band gap, and the fast photoconductive response, suggest promising applications in the field of optoelectronics.
[3+2]‐Cycloaddition for Fully Decorated Vinyl‐1,2,3‐Triazoles: Design, Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Surendra Reddy G. , Anebouselvy K. , Ramachary Dhevalapally B.
Published: July 2020

The small heterocyclic ring of the 1,2,3‐triazole module is one of the most widely investigated compounds in numerous applications of biological, medicinal, pharmaceutical and materially important molecules. In this regard, a large number of synthetic methodologies and approaches have already been reported to construct such a heterocyclic core structure in a selective manner. However, the vinyl‐substituted 1,2,3‐triazole moiety is another privileged segment in heterocyclic chemistry. The selective introduction of simple vinyl and functionalized vinyl groups onto the three different positions of the 1,2,3‐triazole framework can significantly improve the properties of the molecule. Accordingly, high‐yielding efficient approaches for the selective construction of vinyl‐containing 1,2,3‐triazoles becomes a promising branch of chemistry among practitioners of industry and academia. In this minireview, we have discussed recent advances in the construction of highly selective three different vinyl‐containing 1,2,3‐triazoles. In addition, representative synthetic methodologies and approaches for the corresponding three different classes of vinyl‐1,2,3‐triazoles and their applications have been described as well in this review.
Planung und Bau großformatiger Dübelschächte am Hochmoselübergang
Authors: Zachert Hauke , Kusch Ramona , Höfgen Andreas
Published: July 2020

Im Zuge der Baumaßnahme der „B 50 neu“ entstand mit der Hochmoselbrücke im Kreis Bernkastel‐Wittlich die zweithöchste und längste Straßenbrücke Deutschlands. Im Gründungsbereich auf der Eifelseite ist der Hang tiefgründig verwittert und gestört und aufgrund einer Hangneigung von im Mittel 25° konnte mit den vorliegenden geotechnischen Kennwerten keine normative Standsicherheit nachgewiesen werden. Zusätzlich wurde in einem langjährigen Messprogramm eine langsame, aber stetige, hangabwärts gerichtete Verformung des in geologischen Karten als Rutschhang gekennzeichneten Hangs von 0,6 mm/Jahr gemessen. Um diese Hangverformungen zu verhindern und gleichzeitig die Gesamtstandsicherheit des Hangs auf ein normatives Sicherheitsniveau zu erhöhen, wurde eine konstruktive Hangsicherung in Form von sechs großformatigen Dübelschächten geplant und ausgeführt. Die Stahlbetonschächte reichen bis in eine Tiefe von rd. 40 m und weisen einen Außendurchmesser von 6,6 m bei einer Wandstärke von rd. 1 m auf. Die Dübelschächte wurden in zwei Reihen mit jeweils drei Schächten zwischen den im Steilhang gegründeten Brückenpfeilern hergestellt und am Kopf mit 55 m langen Litzenankern unterhalb der gemessenen Bewegungsfuge rückverankert. Dieser Beitrag hebt einzelne Aspekte dieser Planung, wie bspw. die geführten Standsicherheitsnachweise, hervor und gibt weiterhin einen Einblick in die Bauausführung und die während der Aushubarbeiten angetroffene Geologie.
Analysis of methylparaben in cosmetics based on a chemiluminescence H2O2−NaIO4−CNQDs system
Authors: Li Jie , Han Yingzi , Li Xinyue , Xiong Liping , Wei Lijun , Cheng Xianglei
Published: July 2020

In this article, a simple, effective chemiluminescence (CL) method for the detection of methylparaben (MP) in cosmetic samples was developed based on an IO4−–H2O2–carbon nitrogen quantum dots (CNQDs) system without a separation process. The results indicated that the redox reaction between periodate and hydrogen peroxide released hydroxide radicals and superoxide radical anions in the presence of bicarbonate. These two radicals were responsible for the formation of excited luminophor CNQD* with a maximum wavelength at 480 nm. Due to the competitive reaction with hydroxide radicals, CL intensity was markedly diminished in the presence of MP. The relative standard deviation in the intraday assay was below 5.5% (n = 9), and the detection limit was as low as 0.50 μmol/L. The proposed method allowed for the successful, selective determination of MP in cosmetics.
Glycosidic Linkage Structures Influence Dietary Fiber Fermentability and Propionate Production by Human Colonic Microbiota In Vitro
Authors: Sasaki Daisuke , Sasaki Kengo , Kondo Akihiko
Published: July 2020

Some dietary fibers can be produced by starch modification; however, information regarding the relationships between glycosidic linkages and dietary fiber fermentability or the production of short‐chain fatty acids is limited. Thus, these relationships are investigated using an in vitro model of human colonic microbiota, which approximates the bacterial species richness and diversity in inoculated fecal samples. Six dietary fibers with various glycosidic linkage contents are prepared. Each dietary fiber (final concentration: 1.0 wt%) is administered in vitro to human microbiota models 18 h after fecal samples are inoculated. The contents of (1 → 2) plus (1 → 3) linkages and β‐linkages in the six dietary fibers negatively correlate with the fermentation speed and fermentation ratio of the indigestible parts of the dietary fibers (R2 = 0.8126 or 0.8306 and R2 = 0.9106 or 0.9673, respectively) 24 h after administering each dietary fiber. Further, the concentrations of propionate produced in vitro by human microbiota positively correlate with the fermentation speed and fermentation ratio (R2 = 0.9149 and 0.9581, respectively). The in vitro assay reveals that (1 → 2) plus (1 → 3) linkages and β‐linkages in dietary fiber affect resistance to fermentation and propionate production by the human colonic microbiota.
Accurate, sensitive determination of omega‐6 and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in human plasma, urine samples
Authors: Öztürk Er Elif , Şahin Ayşe , Bakırdere Sezgin
Published: July 2020

Quantitative determination of omega‐6 and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in human plasma and urine with high accuracy and precision provides significant information to monitor the underlying etiology of several diseases. In this regard, liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry is a good choice owing to its great selectivity and sensitivity. Additionally, the hybrid quadrupole–time of flight–mass spectrometer systems provides easy identification of target compounds with superior mass measurements. In this study, an analytical method has been developed for simple, accurate and simultaneous determination of linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid in a short chromatographic analysis period. The developed method is suitable for the quantitative detection of these four compounds with detection limits ranging between 1.1–3.0 ng ml−1 and its applicability was assessed in human urine and plasma samples. As a result, acceptable accuracy (between 83 and 111%) and good precision (<6%) were obtained for target compounds using matrix matching calibration strategy.
Validated LC–MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of enalapril maleate, nitrendipine, hydrochlorothiazide, and their major metabolites in human plasma
Authors: Mohammad Mohammad Abdul‐Azim , Mahrouse Marianne Alphonse , Amer Enas Abdel Hakeem , Elharati Nouran Saleh
Published: July 2020

Hypertension is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease. Most hypertensive patients need a combination of antihypertensive agents to achieve therapeutic goals. A rapid, sensitive, and selective liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometric method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of enalapril maleate (ENA) and its major metabolite enalaprilat (ENAT), nitrendipine (NIT) and its major metabolite dehydronitrendipine (DNIT), and hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) in human plasma using felodipine as an internal standard (IS). The drugs were extracted from plasma using one‐step protein precipitation. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Symmetry C18 column, with water and acetonitrile (10:90, v/v) as mobile phase. The detection was carried out using multiple reaction monitoring mode and coupled with electrospray ionization source. Multiple reaction monitoring transitions were m/z 377.1 → 234.1 for ENA, m/z 349.2 → 206.1 for ENAT, m/z 361.2 → 315.1 for NIT, m/z 359 → 331 for DNIT, m/z 295.9 → 205.1 for HCT, and m/z 384.1 → 338 for felodipine (IS). The method was linear over concentration ranges of 1–200, 20–500, 5–200, 2–100, and 5–200 ng/mL for ENA, ENAT, NIT, DNIT, and HCT, respectively, with r2 ≥ 0.99. Method validation was performed according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines. The validated method showed good sensitivity and selectivity and could be applied for therapeutic drug monitoring and bioequivalence studies.
Identification of metabolic markers in patients with type 2 Diabetes by Ultrafast gas chromatography coupled to electronic nose. A pilot study
Authors: Méndez‐Rodríguez Karen Beatriz , Figueroa‐Vega Nicté , Ilizaliturri‐Hernandez César Arturo , Cardona‐Alvarado Mónica , Borjas‐García Jaime Antonio , Kornhauser Carlos , Malacara Juan Manuel , Flores‐Ramírez Rogelio , Pérez‐Vázquez Francisco Javier
Published: July 2020

Metabolomics is a potential tool for the discovery of new biomarkers in the early diagnosis of diseases. An ultra‐fast gas chromatography system equipped to an electronic nose detector (FGC eNose) was used to identify the metabolomic profile of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in type 2 diabetes (T2D) urine from Mexican population. A cross‐sectional, comparative, and clinical study with translational approach was performed. We recruited twenty T2D patients and twenty‐one healthy subjects. Urine samples were taken and analyzed by FGC eNose. Eighty‐eight compounds were identified through Kovats's indexes. A natural variation of 30% between the metabolites, expressed by study groups, was observed in Principal Component 1 and 2 with a significant difference (p < 0.001). The model, performed through a Canonical Analysis of Principal coordinated (CAP), allowed a correct classification of 84.6% between healthy and T2D patients, with a 15.4% error. The metabolites 2‐propenal, 2‐propanol, butane‐ 2,3‐dione and 2‐methylpropanal, were increased in patients with T2D, and they were strongly correlated with discrimination between clinically healthy people and T2D patients. This study identified metabolites in urine through FGC eNose that can be used as biomarkers in the identification of T2D patients. However, more studies are needed for its implementation in clinical practice.
Weaving a strategy for a base‐of‐the‐pyramid market: The case of Grundfos LIFELINK
Authors: Andersen Poul Houman , Esbjerg Lars
Published: July 2020

This paper explores the development of strategies by multinational corporations (MNCs) for serving markets at the base of the economic pyramid (BoP). MNCs play an important role in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) formulated by the United Nations (UN), as they are responsible for one‐third of the total economic output and the majority of world trade. However, little is known about how MNCs contribute to meeting the UN SDGs. Through an in‐depth analysis of how Grundfos, a Danish MNC and a leading supplier of pumps, developed a solution for supplying fresh potable water to rural villages in Kenya, we investigate some challenges MNCs face and demonstrate the importance of intimate engagement with the context of strategic action. Tackling sustainable development issues in the context of BoP markets represents a distinctive challenge to MNCs, which often do not have a good understanding of BoP environments. Drawing on contrasting ideas of strategy as navigation or wayfaring, we highlight the dangers of trying to impose existing strategies and business practices in market contexts, which are fundamentally different from existing ones. We add to the existing research by exploring how such frameworks interact with strategizing processes in a novel environment for the operating firm. Specifically, we explore the interrelatedness between planned and emergent approaches to strategizing in BoP market environments.
Selecting human papillomavirus genotypes to optimize the performance of screening tests among South African women
Authors: Johnson Lauren G. , Saidu Rakiya , Mbulawa Zizipho , Williamson Anna‐Lise , Boa Rosalind , Tergas Ana , Moodley Jennifer , Persing David , Campbell Scott , Tsai Wei‐Yann , Wright Thomas C. , Denny Lynette , Kuhn Louise
Published: July 2020

Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is highly sensitive compared to cytology, with the trade‐off of being less specific. We investigated whether select combinations of HPV genotypes, ascertained by Linear Array (LA) and Xpert HPV (GX), can optimize sensitivity/specificity trade‐offs to detect high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+). In a study in Cape Town, South Africa, 586 women living without and 535 living with HIV, aged 30‐65 years, were recruited. Each woman underwent a pelvic exam to collect cervical samples (tested by LA and GX for 14 high‐risk HPV genotypes) and underwent colposcopy with histological sampling to determine CIN2+. In multivariable logistic regression of LA results, only HPV genotypes 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 52, 58 were significantly associated with CIN2+ (P < .05). Xpert includes these seven types along with HPV 45 within three of the test's five channels and we defined these eight types as restricted genotyping (ie 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 45, 52, 58). Full genotyping was defined as all 14 high‐risk types. Sensitivity estimates for full genotyping using LA were similar to that of restricted genotyping: 83.9% (full) vs 79.0% (restricted) in women without HIV and 93.0% (full) vs 88.9% (restricted) in women living with HIV. Specificity estimates improved for restricted vs full genotyping: 87.4% (full) vs 90.8% (restricted) in women without HIV and 63.7% (full) vs 71.4% (restricted) in women living with HIV. To optimize the performance of HPV testing for cervical cancer screening in high‐burden, under‐resourced settings like South Africa, only HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 45, 52, 58 could be included to define screen‐positive. We recommend the inclusion of HPV45 for its known link to adenocarcinoma.
Body mass index associated with childhood and adolescent high‐risk B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia risk: A Children’s Oncology Group report
Authors: Ghosh Taumoha , Richardson Michaela , Gordon Peter M. , Ryder Justin R. , Spector Logan G. , Turcotte Lucie M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Obesity is a risk factor for many adulthood cancers, but its role in childhood, adolescent, and young adult (AYA) cancer is unknown. Childhood and AYA acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) incidence and obesity prevalence have shown concurrent increases. We sought to identify whether obesity may be a risk factor for childhood and AYA ALL.

Methods

Characteristics from individuals with ALL, aged 2‐30 years, diagnosed 2004‐2017 and treated on Children's Oncology Group (COG) protocols with available pre‐treatment anthropometric data (N = 4726) were compared to National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey controls (COG AALL17D2). Body mass index (BMI) was defined using standard CDC definitions. Multivariate conditional logistic regression assessed associations between BMI and ALL with additional analyses stratified by sex and race/ethnicity.

Results

Among cases (72% high‐risk (HR) B‐ALL, 28% T‐ALL), 5% had underweight, 58% normal weight, 17% overweight, and 20% obesity. Underweight (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.56‐2.85) and obesity (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.15‐1.53) were associated with B‐ALL diagnosis. Specifically, obesity was associated with B‐ALL among males (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.30‐1.91) and Hispanic children (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.39‐2.29). Obesity was also associated with central nervous system (CNS) involvement.

Conclusion

Pre‐treatment obesity is associated with HR B‐ALL among males and Hispanics, as well as with CNS involvement, suggesting common physiology between obesity and leukemogenesis. An association between underweight and ALL was confirmed, likely due to cancer‐associated wasting. These results have important public health implications for obesity prevention and treatment in children and adolescents to reduce cancer risk.
Recent Advances in Silver‐Catalyzed Transformations of Electronically Unbiased Alkenes and Alkynes
Authors: Li Meng , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: July 2020

Silver, as one of the most ancient coinage metals, has attracted a plethora of attention from chemists in recent years due to the easy availability, high catalytic efficiency and multiple functions displayed in various chemical processes. In particular, the research in this field has gained a great progress since 2007 and several elegant reviews have been documented in the literature. However, there has been no systematic review concentrating on the transformations of electronically unbiased alkenes and alkynes under silver catalysis till now, though a rapid development in this area is witnessed. Therefore, this review mainly focuses on the recent advances in silver‐catalyzed reactions of different electron‐unbiased alkenes and alkynes, covering examples of hydrofunctionalization reactions, difunctionalization reactions, cross‐coupling reactions as well as cyclization reactions since 2015 to February 2020. In addition, some interesting mechanisms were also discussed.
Mechanistic In Situ and Ex Situ Studies of Phase Transformations in Molecular Co‐Crystals
Authors: Clout Alexander E. , Buanz Asma B. M. , Pang Yuying , Tsui Wing‐Mei , Yan Dongpeng , Parkinson Gary , Prior Timothy J. , Bučar Dejan‐Krešimir , Gaisford Simon , Williams Gareth R.
Published: July 2020

Co‐crystallisation is widely explored as a route to improve the physical properties of pharmaceutical active ingredients, but little is known about the fundamental mechanisms of the process. Herein, we apply a hyphenated differential scanning calorimetry—X‐ray diffraction technique to mimic the commercial hot melt extrusion process, and explore the heat‐induced synthesis of a series of new co‐crystals containing isonicotinamide. These comprise a 1:1 co‐crystal with 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, 2:1 and 1:2 systems with 4‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid and a 1:1 crystal with 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylactic acid. The formation of co‐crystals during heating is complex mechanistically. In addition to co‐crystallisation, conversions between polymorphs of the co‐former starting materials and co‐crystal products are also observed. A subsequent study exploring the use of inkjet printing and milling to generate co‐crystals revealed that the synthetic approach has a major effect on the co‐crystal species and polymorphs produced.
Zinc Imine Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane as a Quattro‐Site Catalyst for the Synthesis of Cyclic Carbonates from Epoxides and Low‐Pressure CO2
Authors: Janeta Mateusz , Lis Tadeusz , Szafert Sławomir
Published: July 2020

In the present research, the synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, and structural investigations of a unique ZnII complex of imine‐functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) is designed, and hereby described, as a catalyst for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and CO2. The uncommon features of the designed catalytic system is the elimination of the need for a high pressure of CO2 and the significant shortening of reaction times commonly associated with such difficult transformations like that of styrene oxide to styrene carbonate. Our studies have shown that imine‐POSS is able to chelate metal ions like ZnII to form a unique coordination complex. The silsesquioxane core and the hindrance of the side arms (their steric effect) influence the construction process of the homoleptic Zn4@POSS‐1 complex. The compound was characterized in solution by NMR (1H, 13C, 29Si), ESI‐MS, UV/Vis spectroscopy and in the solid state by thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA), elemental analysis, diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), cross‐polarization magic angle spinning (CP MAS) NMR (13C, 29Si) spectroscopy, and X‐ray crystallography.
A Buchwald–Hartwig Protocol to Enable Rapid Linker Exploration of Cereblon E3‐Ligase PROTACs**
Authors: Hayhow Thomas G. , Borrows Rachel E. A. , Diène Coura R. , Fairley Gary , Fallan Charlene , Fillery Shaun M. , Scott James S. , Watson David W.
Published: July 2020

A palladium‐catalysed Buchwald–Hartwig amination for lenalidomide‐derived aryl bromides was optimised using high throughput experimentation (HTE). The substrate scope of the optimised conditions was evaluated for a range of alkyl‐ and aryl‐ amines and functionalised aryl bromides. The methodology allows access to new cereblon‐based bifunctional proteolysis targeting chimeras with a reduced step count and improved yields.
Female reproductive state is associated with changes in distinct arginine vasotocin cell types in the preoptic area of Astatotilapia burtoni
Authors: Butler Julie M. , Anselmo Chase M. , Maruska Karen P.
Published: July 2020

Nonapeptides play a crucial role in mediating reproduction, aggression, and parental care across taxa. In fishes, arginine vasotocin (AVT) expression is related to social and/or reproductive status in most male fishes studied to date, and is linked to territorial defense, paternal care, and courtship. Despite a plethora of studies examining AVT in male fishes, relatively little is known about how AVT expression varies with female reproductive state or its role in female social behaviors. We used multiple methods for examining the AVT system in female African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni, including immunohistochemistry for AVT, in situ hybridization for avt‐mRNA, and quantitative PCR. Ovulated and mouthbrooding females had similar numbers of parvocellular, magnocellular, and gigantocellular AVT cells in the preoptic area. However, ovulated females had larger magnocellular and gigantocellular cells compared to mouthbrooding females, and gigantocellular AVT cell size correlated with the number of days brooding, such that late‐stage brooding females had larger AVT cells than mid‐stage brooding females. In addition, we found that ventral hypothalamic cells were more prominent in females compared to males, and were larger in mouthbrooding compared to ovulated females, suggesting a role in maternal care. Together, these data indicate that AVT neurons change across the reproductive cycle in female fishes, similar to that seen in males. These data on females complement studies in male A. burtoni, providing a comprehensive picture of the regulation and potential function of different AVT cell types in reproduction and social behaviors in both sexes.
Steroid receptor‐associated and regulated protein is a biomarker in predicting the clinical outcome and treatment response in malignancies
Authors: Naderi Ali
Published: July 2020

Background

Steroid receptor‐associated and regulated protein (SRARP) has recently been identified as a novel tumor suppressor in malignancies of multiple tissue origins. SRARP is located on chromosome 1p36.13 and is widely inactivated by deletions and epigenetic silencing in malignancies. Therefore, additional studies are required to explore SRARP as a potential cancer biomarker.

Aim

This study explores the application of SRARP as a novel biomarker in malignancies of multiple tissue origins using the analysis of large genomic datasets.

Methods and results

A comprehensive genomic analysis of large cancer datasets was carried out to examine the association of SRARP expression and copy‐number with molecular and clinical features in malignancies of multiple tissue origins. This study demonstrated that SRARP under‐expression and copy‐number loss are strongly associated with the loss of other tumor suppressors such as TP53 and NF1 mutations and oncogenic gains, including N‐MYC amplification and ERG rearrangement, suggesting that SRARP inactivation is associated with wider genomic instability in malignancies. Importantly, SRARP under‐expression and copy‐number loss are strong predictors of poor clinical and/or pathological features in breast, colorectal, lung, prostate, gastric, endometrial, cervical, brain, ovarian, bladder, thyroid, and hepatocellular cancers as well as neuroblastoma, uveal melanoma, and acute myeloid leukemia with highly significant odds ratios. Finally, higher SRARP expression and copy‐number predict a better response to several cancer drugs.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the SRARP inactivation presents a robust biomarker in predicting molecular and clinicopathological features, and treatment response in malignancies.
Minding the gap: Asymmetric effects of pay dispersion on stakeholder engagement in corporate environmental (Ir)responsibility
Authors: Zhang Ying , Tong Li , Li Ji
Published: July 2020

How does pay dispersion affect corporate environmental performance? Building on the tournament effect and equity perspective, we theorize that vertical pay dispersion and horizontal pay dispersion can impinge on corporate environmental performance. We develop the theoretical argument that vertical pay dispersion is negatively related to corporate environmental responsibility (CER) and positively related to corporate environmental irresponsibility (CEIR) due to the tournament competition among executives, and that horizontal pay dispersion is negatively related to CER and positively related to CEIR due to the unjust sense among executives. We then delve into the asymmetric effects of vertical pay dispersion and horizontal pay dispersion on CER and CEIR. We argue that the asymmetric effects result from the difference in social comparison. We find strong empirical support for our predictions. Implications for the development of the literature on pay dispersion and corporate environmental performance are discussed.
Evaluation of Exosome Proteins by on‐Bead Flow Cytometry
Authors: Theodoraki Marie‐Nicole , Hong Chang‐Sook , Donnenberg Vera S. , Donnenberg Albert D. , Whiteside Theresa L.
Published: July 2020

Exosomes, recently re‐named “small extracellular vesicles” or “sEV,” are emerging as an intercellular communication system. Quantification of the molecular cargo exosomes carry by on‐bead flow cytometry is needed for defining their role in information transfer and in human disease. Exosomes (sEV) isolated from cell supernatants or plasma of cancer patients by size‐exclusion chromatography were captured by biotinylated antibodies specific for antigens in the exosome cargo (e.g., tetraspanins) and placed on streptavidin‐labeled beads. Detection was performed with pretitered fluorochrome‐labeled antibodies of desired specificity. The data were acquired in a conventional cytometer, and molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochrome (MESF) beads were used to quantify the number of fluorescent molecules bound per bead. Isotype antibody controls were obligatory. The mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) value of each sample was converted into MESF units, and the separation index (SI), which quantifies separation of stained and isotype control beads, was determined. Various proteins identified by labeled antibodies were quantified on the surface of tumor cell‐derived exosomes. To identify intravesicular cargo, such as cytokines or chemokines, exosomes were lysed with 0.3% Triton‐100, and the proteins in lysates were loaded on aldehyde/sulfate latex beads for flow cytometry. Examples of quantitative surface and/or intravesicular on‐bead flow cytometry for exosomes produced by various cells or present in body fluids of cancer patients are provided. On‐bead flow cytometry standardized for use with conventional cytometers is a useful method for protein detection and quantitation in exosomes isolated from supernatants of cell lines or plasma of patients with cancer. © 2020 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Momentary associations between positive affect dimensions and dysregulated eating during puberty in a diverse sample of youth with overweight/obesity
Authors: Egbert Amy H. , Haedt‐Matt Alissa , Smith Kathryn E. , Culbert Kristen , Engel Scott , Goldschmidt Andrea B.
Published: July 2020

Objective

The link between dysregulated positive affect and binge‐eating behavior in youth with obesity is poorly understood. In addition, it is unclear how putative associations differ across developmental periods of rapid biological and emotional change, such as puberty, and in racial and ethnic minority youth, who are more likely to be overweight but are underrepresented in the literature.

Method

This study used a 2‐week ecological momentary assessment protocol to examine independent and interactive effects of positive affect intensity/instability, and pubertal stage on two components of binge‐eating behavior, loss of control eating (LOCE), and overeating.

Results

Participants were 38 youth with overweight/obesity (ages 8–14 years; 78% African American/Hispanic). Positive affect instability was calculated using probability of acute change (PAC), representing the likelihood of extreme affective changes, and mean squared successive difference (MSSD), representing the average change in affect over successive recordings. There were no main effects of positive affect intensity on LOCE or overeating, but positive affect instability was negatively associated with overeating severity using both MSSD (p = .005) and PAC metrics (p = .001). However, moderation analyses including interactions with pubertal status revealed more extreme changes in positive affect (i.e., higher PAC) were related to greater overeating (p = .001) and LOCE severity (p = .043) in mid‐late pubertal youth but not in pre‐early pubertal youth.

Discussion

Pubertal status may influence the association between disruptions in positive affect and dysregulated eating in youth, and positive affect instability may be important to consider in order to understand the emotional correlates of binge eating in youth with overweight/obesity.
Chemical novelty facilitates herbivore resistance and biological invasions in some introduced plant species
Authors: Sedio Brian E. , Devaney John L. , Pullen Jamie , Parker Geoffrey G. , Wright S. Joseph , Parker John D.
Published: July 2020

Ecological release from herbivory due to chemical novelty is commonly predicted to facilitate biological invasions by plants, but has not been tested on a community scale. We used metabolomics based on mass spectrometry molecular networks to assess the novelty of foliar secondary chemistry of 15 invasive plant species compared to 46 native species at a site in eastern North America. Locally, invasive species were more chemically distinctive than natives. Among the 15 invasive species, the more chemically distinct were less preferred by insect herbivores and less browsed by deer. Finally, an assessment of invasion frequency in 2,505 forest plots in the Atlantic coastal plain revealed that, regionally, invasive species that were less preferred by insect herbivores, less browsed by white‐tailed deer, and chemically distinct relative to the native plant community occurred more frequently in survey plots. Our results suggest that chemically mediated release from herbivores contributes to many successful invasions.
Identification of candidate loci for adaptive phenotypic plasticity in natural populations of spadefoot toads
Authors: Levis Nicholas A. , Reed Emily M. X. , Pfennig David W. , Burford Reiskind Martha O.
Published: July 2020

Phenotypic plasticity allows organisms to alter their phenotype in direct response to changes in the environment. Despite growing recognition of plasticity's role in ecology and evolution, few studies have probed plasticity's molecular bases—especially using natural populations. We investigated the genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity in natural populations of spadefoot toads (Spea multiplicata). Spea tadpoles normally develop into an “omnivore” morph that is favored in long‐lasting, low‐density ponds. However, if tadpoles consume freshwater shrimp or other tadpoles, they can alternatively develop (via plasticity) into a “carnivore” morph that is favored in ephemeral, high‐density ponds. By combining natural variation in pond ecology and morph production with population genetic approaches, we identified candidate loci associated with each morph (carnivores vs. omnivores) and loci associated with adaptive phenotypic plasticity (adaptive vs. maladaptive morph choice). Our candidate morph loci mapped to two genes, whereas our candidate plasticity loci mapped to 14 genes. In both cases, the identified genes tended to have functions related to their putative role in spadefoot tadpole biology. Our results thereby form the basis for future studies into the molecular mechanisms that mediate plasticity in spadefoots. More generally, these results illustrate how diverse loci might mediate adaptive plasticity.
Evolution of starvation resistance in an invasive insect species, Aethina tumida (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)
Authors: Papach Anna , Williams Geoffrey R. , Neumann Peter
Published: July 2020

Starvation resistance, or the ability to survive periods without food, can shed light on selection pressure imposed by food scarcity, including chances to invade new regions as a result of human transport. Surprisingly, little information is known about starvation resistance for invasive insect species. Given that native and invasive populations differ in starvation resistance, this would suggest different selection scenarios and adaptive shifts fostering invasion success. Here, we show striking differences in starvation resistance of adult small hive beetles Aethina tumida (SHB) between native and invasive populations. In the laboratory, starvation resistance of freshly emerged laboratory‐reared and field‐collected adult females and males was evaluated in the beetle's native African range and in their invasive North American range. SHB in their native African range survived longer than SHB in their invasive North American range. Across ranges, females survived longer than males. Field‐collected SHB survived in Africa longer than freshly emerged ones, but not in the invasive range. This suggests no selection for starvation resistance in the invasive range, possibly due to differences between African and European‐derived honey bee hosts facilitating a trade‐off scenario between reproduction and starvation resistance. The ability of adult females to survive up to two months without food appears to be one factor contributing to the invasion success of this species. Assuming food availability is usually high in the invasive ranges, and trade‐offs between starvation resistance and fecundity/reproduction are common, it seems as if selection for starvation resistance during transport could set up potential trade‐offs that enhance reproduction after invasion. It would be interesting to see if this is a possible general pattern for invasive insect species.
Synthesis of Seven Membered Oxacycles: Recent Developments and New Approaches
Authors: Sinka Victoria , Martín Víctor S. , Cruz Daniel A. , Padrón Juan I.
Published: July 2020

This minireview focuses on recent advances in the synthesis of seven‐membered ring oxacycles, whether saturated, unsaturated, fused or isolated. We cover a remarkable variety of strategies and methods developed during the past two decades, based mainly on cyclizations, ring‐closing metathesis, conjugate additions, and ring expansions. The cyclizations can be generated directly or triggered through an oxocarbenium ion, carbocation or iminium‐type species. Also discussed are ring‐closing metatheses and conjugate additions, in which the precursor has the functionalities and correct stereochemistry of the final seven‐membered ring oxacycle. Finally, examples of ring expansions are described, predominantly involving cyclopropanes and epoxides. These cases include reactions governed by the intermediate species and others, where the precursor holds the stereochemical information for the final oxacycle.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Olefination of N‐Tosylhydrazones as β‐Diazo Phosphonate Precursors with Arylhalides
Authors: He Jing , Feng Yijiao , Yang Fang , Dai Bin , Liu Ping
Published: July 2020

An efficient palladium‐catalyzed olefination of N‐tosylhydrazones as β‐diazo phosphonate precursors with aryl halides has been developed. 2,2‐Disubstituted vinylphosphonates bearing versatile functional groups were easily accessed in moderate to excellent yields. Various aryl halides could be employed as the coupling partners, such as (hetero)aryl bromides, aryl iodides, and even aryl chlorides. Moreover, with a similar strategy (2,2‐diphenylvinyl)diarylphosphine oxides can also be attained by the reaction of N‐tosylhydrazones and aryl bromides. This protocol features easily available raw materials, simple reaction conditions, broad substrate scope as well as scale‐up ability. Moreover, the potential application of this product was exemplified by further transformations.