bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Electron‐Donating Bipyranylidene Derivatives: Potential n‐Type Dopants for Organic Thermoelectrics
Authors: Matsuo Takaya , Kawabata Kohsuke , Takimiya Kazuo
Published: July 2021

The design, synthesis, and characterization of new electron‐donor molecules with the closed‐shell electronic structure are described. The molecular design features the use of a bipyranylidene 7π‐electron system together with strong electron‐donating substituents, namely, methoxy and dimethylamino groups, which realizes the highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) as high as or higher than 4.0 eV below the vacuum level. Such high‐lying energy levels of the HOMOs make them potential n‐type dopants for organic thermoelectrics, and it turned out that they are capable of electron‐doping to representative n‐type semiconducting polymers, poly([N,N′‐bis(2‐octyldodecyl)‐naphthalene‐1,4,5,8‐bis(dicarboximide)‐2,6‐diyl]‐alt‐5,5′‐(2,2′‐bithiophene)) (N2200) and poly(benzimidazobenzophenanthroline) (BBL). The resulting doped polymers show decent thermoelectric characteristics with the power factors of 5.7 × 10−3 (N2200) and 1.62 μW m−1 K−2 (BBL), respectively. These values are almost comparable with those of the polymers doped with 4‐(2,3‐dihydro‐1,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐N,N‐dimethylbenzenamine (N‐DMBI), a representative n‐type dopant frequently used in the development of n‐type polymer thermoelectrics. These results indicate that even with the molecules possessing the closed‐shell electronic structure, efficient n‐type dopants can be realized, implying that versatile molecular fragments with electron‐donating natures could be used to develop novel superior n‐type dopants for organic thermoelectric applications.
OnRAMP for Regulating Artificial Intelligence in Medical Products
Authors: Higgins David C.
Published: July 2021

Medical artificial intelligence (AI) involves the application of machine learning (ML) algorithms to biomedical datasets to improve medical practices. Products incorporating medical AI require certification before deployment in most jurisdictions. To date, clear pathways for regulating medical AI are still under development. Below the level of formal pathways lies the actual practice of developing a medical AI solution. This Perspective proposes best practice guidelines for development compatible with the production of a regulatory package which, regardless of the formal regulatory path, will form a core component of a certification process. The approach is predicated on a statistical risk perspective, typical of medical device regulators, and a deep understanding of ML methodologies. These guidelines will allow all parties to communicate more clearly in the development of a common good machine learning practice (GMLP), and thus lead to the enhanced development of both medical AI products and regulations.
Predictors of academic career placement and scholarly impact in fellowship‐trained rhinologists
Authors: Vohra Varun , Watley Duncan C. , Yan Carol H. , Locke Tran B. , Bernstein Isaac A. , Levy Joshua M. , Rowan Nicholas R.
Published: July 2021

Background

As rhinology fellowship positions outpace the availability of academic rhinology jobs, it is increasingly important to identify characteristics that are associated with academic placement after fellowship completion. In this study, we evaluated the association of academic characteristics during training with current job placement and posttraining scholarly impact.

Methods

Previous rhinology fellows were identified using publicly available data. Bibliometric indices, training institutions, graduate degrees, and job placement data were used in bivariate and multivariable regression analyses to assess for association with predictors and academic trajectory.

Results

Data from 265 rhinologists, all graduating between 1991 and 2020, were included. Most surgeons (n = 185, 70%) held an academic position and 80 (30%) surgeons worked in a nonacademic setting; 93.2% had a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree and 80.3% were male. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that a designation of MD, compared with Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO; odds ratio [OR], 5.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.97‐21.9), number of publications during fellowship (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.41), and h‐index during training (OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.49]) were independently predictive of academic job placement. Meanwhile, number of primary authorships during fellowship (β = 1.47; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.88]), h‐index during training (β = 0.48; 95% CI, 0.25‐0.71), and PhD (β = 4.16; 95% CI, 1.57‐6.76) were associated with posttraining h‐index. Medical school ranking; graduate degrees, including Master of Science (MS), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Master of Public Health (MPH); and research metrics before residency were not associated with either academic placement or posttraining h‐index.

Conclusion

The predictors of academic job placement in rhinology are unclear, but h‐index during training, and research productivity during fellowship may serve as indicators of an academic career.
Detection of Alzheimer's disease amyloid beta 1‐42, p‐tau, and t‐tau assays
Authors: van Harten Argonde C. , Wiste Heather J. , Weigand Stephen D. , Mielke Michelle M. , Kremers Walter K. , Eichenlaub Udo , Dyer Roy B. , Algeciras‐Schimnich Alicia , Knopman David S. , Jack Clifford R. , Petersen Ronald C.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

We aimed to provide cut points for the automated Elecsys Alzheimer's disease (AD) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers.

Methods

Cut points for Elecsys amyloid beta 42 (Aβ42), total tau (t‐tau), hyperphosphorylated tau (p‐tau), and t‐tau/Aβ42 and p‐tau/Aβ42 ratios were evaluated in Mayo Clinic Study of Aging (n = 804) and Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (n = 70) participants.

Results

The t‐tau/Aβ42 and p‐tau/Aβ42 ratios had a higher percent agreement with normal/abnormal amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) than the individual CSF markers. Reciever Operating Characteristic (ROC)‐based cut points were 0.26 (0.24–0.27) for t‐tau/Aβ42 and 0.023 (0.020–0.025) for p‐tau/Aβ42. Ratio cut points derived from other cohorts performed as well in our cohort as our own did. Individual biomarkers had worse diagnostic properties and more variable results in terms of positive and negative percent agreement (PPA and NPA).

Conclusion

CSF t‐tau/Aβ42 and p‐tau/Aβ42 ratios are very robust indicators of AD. For individual biomarkers, the intended use should determine which cut point is chosen.
Comparison of CSF phosphorylated tau 181 and 217 for cognitive decline
Authors: Mielke Michelle M. , Aakre Jeremiah A. , Algeciras‐Schimnich Alicia , Proctor Nicholas K. , Machulda Mary M. , Eichenlaub Udo , Knopman David S. , Vemuri Prashanthi , Graff‐Radford Jonathan , Jack Clifford R. , Petersen Ronald C. , Dage Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The prognostic utility of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) phosphorylated tau 217 (p‐tau217) and p‐tau181 is not understood.

Methods

Analyses included 753 Mayo Clinic Study on Aging participants (median age = 71.6; 57% male). CSF amyloid beta (Aβ)42 and p‐tau181 were measured with Elecsys immunoassays. CSF p‐tau181 and p‐tau217 were also measured with Meso Scale Discovery (MSD). We used Cox proportional hazards models for risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and linear mixed models for risk of global and domain‐specific cognitive decline and cortical thickness. Analyses were stratified by elevated brain amyloid based on CSF Aβ42 or amyloid positron emission tomography for those with imaging.

Results

CSF p‐tau217 was superior to p‐tau181 for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. CSF MSD p‐tau181 and p‐tau217 were associated with risk of MCI among amyloid‐positive individuals. Differences between CSF p‐tau measures predicting cortical thickness were subtle.

Discussion

There are subtle differences for CSF p‐tau217 and p‐tau181 as prognostic AD markers.
Mediterranean and Western diet effects on Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, cerebral perfusion, and cognition in mid‐life: A randomized trial
Authors: Hoscheidt Siobhan , Sanderlin Ashley H. , Baker Laura D. , Jung Youngkyoo , Lockhart Samuel , Kellar Derek , Whitlow Christopher T. , Hanson Angela J. , Friedman Seth , Register Thomas , Leverenz James B. , Craft Suzanne
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Mid‐life dietary patterns are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk, although few controlled trials have been conducted.

Methods

Eighty‐seven participants (age range: 45 to 65) with normal cognition (NC, n = 56) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 31) received isocaloric diets high or low in saturated fat, glycemic index, and sodium (Western‐like/West‐diet vs. Mediterranean‐like/Med‐diet) for 4 weeks. Diet effects on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers, cognition, and cerebral perfusion were assessed to determine whether responses differed by cognitive status.

Results

CSF amyloid beta (Aβ)42/40 ratios increased following the Med‐diet, and decreased after West‐diet for NC adults, whereas the MCI group showed the reverse pattern. For the MCI group, the West‐diet reduced and the Med‐diet increased total tau (t‐tau), whereas CSF Aβ42/t‐tau ratios increased following the West‐diet and decreased following the Med‐diet. For NC participants, the Med‐diet increased and the West‐diet decreased cerebral perfusion.

Discussion

Diet response during middle age may highlight early pathophysiological processes that increase AD risk.
Complementary pre‐screening strategies to uncover hidden prodromal and mild Alzheimer's disease: Results from the MOPEAD project
Authors: Boada Mercè , Rodrigo Adrián , Jessen Frank , Wimblad Bengt , Kramberger Milica G. , Visser Pieter Jelle , Simó Rafael , Rodríguez‐Gomez Octavio , Ciudin Andreea , Georges Jean , Dumas Annete , Maguire Peggy , Krivec David , Wimo Anders , Valero Sergi , Alegret Montserrat , Jamilis Laura , Zwan Marissa , Sannemann Lena , Arrufat Jordi , Stomrud Erik , Johansson Gunilla , Shering Craig , Glaysher Bridget , Stewart Neil , Belger Mark , Iradier Fatima , Campo Laura ,   the MOPEAD consortium
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The Models of Patient Engagement for Alzheimer's Disease (MOPEAD) project was conceived to explore innovative complementary strategies to uncover hidden prodromal and mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia cases and to raise awareness both in the general public and among health professionals about the importance of early diagnosis.

Methods

Four different strategies or RUNs were used: (a) a web‐based (WB) prescreening tool, (2) an open house initiative (OHI), (3) a primary care–based protocol for early detection of cognitive decline (PC), and (4) a tertiary care–based pre‐screening at diabetologist clinics (DC).

Results

A total of 1129 patients at high risk of having prodromal AD or dementia were identified of 2847 pre‐screened individuals (39.7%). The corresponding proportion for the different initiatives were 36.8% (WB), 35.6% (OHI), 44.4% (PC), and 58.3% (DC).

Conclusion

These four complementary pre‐screening strategies were useful for identifying individuals at high risk of having prodromal or mild AD.
Metabolite Signature of Alzheimer's Disease in Adults with Down Syndrome
Authors: Montal Victor , Barroeta Isabel , Bejanin Alexandre , Pegueroles Jordi , Carmona‐Iragui María , Altuna Miren , Benejam Bessy , Videla Laura , Fernández Susana , Padilla Concepcion , Aranha Mateus Rozalem , Iulita Maria Florencia , Vidal‐Piñeiro Didac , Alcolea Daniel , Blesa Rafael , Lleó Alberto , Fortea Juan ,   and Down Alzheimer Barcelona Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the Alzheimer's disease metabolite signature through magnetic resonance spectroscopy in adults with Down syndrome and its relation with Alzheimer's disease biomarkers and cortical thickness.

Methods

We included 118 adults with Down syndrome from the Down Alzheimer Barcelona Imaging Initiative and 71 euploid healthy controls from the Sant Pau Initiative on Neurodegeneration cohort. We measured the levels of myo‐inositol (a marker of neuroinflammation) and N‐acetyl‐aspartate (a marker of neuronal integrity) in the precuneus using magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We investigated the changes with age and along the disease continuum (asymptomatic, prodromal Alzheimer's disease, and Alzheimer's disease dementia stages). We assessed the relationship between these metabolites and Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, phosphorylated tau‐181, neurofilament light (NfL), and YKL‐40 cerebrospinal fluid levels as well as amyloid positron emission tomography uptake using Spearman correlations controlling for multiple comparisons. Finally, we computed the relationship between cortical thickness and metabolite levels using Freesurfer.

Results

Asymptomatic adults with Down syndrome had a 27.5% increase in the levels of myo‐inositol, but equal levels of N‐acetyl‐aspartate compared to euploid healthy controls. With disease progression, myo‐inositol levels increased, whereas N‐acetyl‐aspartate levels decreased in symptomatic stages of the disease. Myo‐inositol was associated with amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration markers, mainly at symptomatic stages of the disease, whereas N‐acetyl‐aspartate was related to neurodegeneration biomarkers in symptomatic stages. Both metabolites were significantly associated with cortical thinning, mainly in symptomatic participants.

Interpretation

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy detects Alzheimer's disease related inflammation and neurodegeneration, and could be a good noninvasive disease‐stage biomarker in Down syndrome. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:407–416
Tetrapyrrolische Pigmente aus dem Häm‐ und Chlorophyllabbau interagieren mit Aktin
Authors: Karg Cornelia A. , Wang Shuaijun , Al Danaf Nader , Pemberton Ryan P. , Bernard Denzil , Kretschmer Maibritt , Schneider Sabine , Zisis Themistoklis , Vollmar Angelika M. , Lamb Don C. , Zahler Stefan , Moser Simone
Published: July 2021

Chlorophyll und Häm sind sogenannte “Pigmente des Lebens”, tetrapyrrolische Strukturen, ohne die das Leben auf der Erde nicht möglich wäre. Ihre Abbauprodukte, die Phyllobiline bzw. die Biline, teilen nicht nur strukturelle Merkmale, sondern auch eine ähnliche Geschichte: Lange Zeit wurden sie nur als Abfallprodukte von Entgiftungsprozessen angesehen; inzwischen konnten für beide Klassen wichtige Bioaktivitäten nachgewiesen werden. Für die Phyllobiline gibt es jedoch nur wenige Erkenntnisse über physiologische Rollen. Hier stellen wir mit Aktin, dem Hauptbestandteil des Zytoskeletts, die erste entdeckte Zielstruktur von Phyllobilinen und eine neue Zielstruktur von Bilinen vor. Wir zeigen die Hemmung der Aktindynamik in vitro und Auswirkungen auf Aktin und Aktin‐abhängige Prozesse in Krebszellen. Eine direkte Interaktion mit G‐Aktin wird durch in silico‐Studien dargelegt und durch Affinitätschromatographie bestätigt. Unsere Ergebnisse eröffnen ein neues Kapitel über Bioaktivitäten von Tetrapyrrolen – insbesondere der Phyllobiline – und bilden die Grundlage für weitreichende Anwendungen in der Pflanzenwissenschaft, Ökologie und Physiologie.
Tetrapyrrolic Pigments from Heme‐ and Chlorophyll Breakdown are Actin‐Targeting Compounds
Authors: Karg Cornelia A. , Wang Shuaijun , Al Danaf Nader , Pemberton Ryan P. , Bernard Denzil , Kretschmer Maibritt , Schneider Sabine , Zisis Themistoklis , Vollmar Angelika M. , Lamb Don C. , Zahler Stefan , Moser Simone
Published: July 2021

Chlorophyll and heme are among the “pigments of life”, tetrapyrrolic structures, without which life on Earth would not be possible. Their catabolites, the phyllobilins and the bilins, respectively, share not only structural features, but also a similar story: Long considered waste products of detoxification processes, important bioactivities for both classes have now been demonstrated. For phyllobilins, however, research on physiological roles is sparse. Here, we introduce actin, the major component of the cytoskeleton, as the first discovered target of phyllobilins and as a novel target of bilins. We demonstrate the inhibition of actin dynamics in vitro and effects on actin and related processes in cancer cells. A direct interaction with G‐actin is shown by in silico studies and confirmed by affinity chromatography. Our findings open a new chapter in bioactivities of tetrapyrroles—especially phyllobilins—for which they form the basis for broad implications in plant science, ecology, and physiology.
Agronomic performance of high oleic, low linolenic soybean in Tennessee
Authors: Willette Alison , Fallen Benjamin , Bhandari Hem , Sams Carl , Chen Feng , Sykes Virginia , Smallwood Chris , Bilyeu Kristin , Li Zenglu , Pantalone Vincent
Published: July 2021

Soybean oil hydrogenation alters the linolenic acid molecule to prevent the oil from becoming rancid, however, health reports have indicated trans‐fat caused by hydrogenation, is not generally regarded as safe. Typical soybeans contain approximately 80 g kg−1 to 120 g kg−1 linolenic acid and 240 g kg−1 of oleic acid. In an effort to accommodate the need for high‐quality oil, the United Soybean Board introduced an industry standard for a high oleic acid greater than 750 g kg−1 and linolenic acid less than 30 g kg−1 oil. By combing mutations in the soybean plant at four loci, FAD2‐1A and FAD2‐1B, oleate desaturase genes and FAD3A and FAD3C, linoleate desaturase genes, and seed oil will not require hydrogenation to prevent oxidation and produce high‐quality oil. In 2017 and 2018, a study comparing four near‐isogenic lines across multiple Tennessee locations was performed to identify agronomic traits associated with mutations in FAD3A and FAD3C loci, while holding FAD2‐1A and FAD2‐1B constant in the mutant (high oleic) state. Soybean lines were assessed for yield and oil quality based on mutations at FAD2‐1 and FAD3 loci. Variations of wild‐type and mutant genotypes were compared at FAD3A and FAD3C loci. Analysis using a generalized linear mixed model in SAS 9.4, indicated no yield drag or other negative agronomic traits associated with the high oleic and low linolenic acid genotype. All four mutations of fad2‐1A, fad2‐1B, fad3A, and fad3C were determined as necessary to produce a soybean with the new industry standard (>750 g kg−1 oleic and <30 g kg−1 linolenic acid) in a maturity group‐IV‐Late cultivar for Tennessee growers.
Assessment of quality attributes for adeno‐associated viral vectors
Authors: Tustian Andrew D. , Bak Hanne
Published: July 2021

There is a strong and growing interest in the development and production of gene therapy products, including those utilizing adeno‐associated virus (AAV) particles. This is evident with the increase in the number of clinical trials and agency approvals for AAV therapeutics. As bioproduction of AAV viral vectors matures, a quality by design (QbD) approach to process development can aid in process robustness and product quality. Furthermore, it may become a regulatory expectation. The first step in any QbD approach is to determine what physical, chemical, biological, or microbiological property or characteristic product attributes should be controlled within an appropriate limit, range, or distribution to ensure the desired product quality. Then predefined goals are set to allow proactive process development to design in quality. This review lists typical quality attributes used for release testing of AAV viral vectors and discusses these and selected attributes important to extended characterization studies in terms of safety, efficacy, and impact upon the patient immune response.
A digital pathology tool for quantification of color features in histologic specimens
Authors: Reschke Melanie , DiRito Jenna R. , Stern David , Day Wesley , Plebanek Natalie , Harris Matthew , Hosgood Sarah A. , Nicholson Michael L. , Haakinson Danielle J. , Zhang Xuchen , Mehal Wajahat Z. , Ouyang Xinshou , Pober Jordan S. , Saltzman W. Mark , Tietjen Gregory T.
Published: July 2021

In preclinical research, histological analysis of tissue samples is often limited to qualitative or semiquantitative scoring assessments. The reliability of this analysis can be impaired by the subjectivity of these approaches, even when read by experienced pathologists. Furthermore, the laborious nature of manual image assessments often leads to the analysis being restricted to a relatively small number of images that may not accurately represent the whole sample. Thus, there is a clear need for automated image analysis tools that can provide robust and rapid quantification of histologic samples from paraffin‐embedded or cryopreserved tissues. To address this need, we have developed a color image analysis algorithm (DigiPath) to quantify distinct color features in histologic sections. We demonstrate the utility of this tool across multiple types of tissue samples and pathologic features, and compare results from our program to other quantitative approaches such as color thresholding and hand tracing. We believe this tool will enable more thorough and reliable characterization of histological samples to facilitate better rigor and reproducibility in tissue‐based analyses.
Mixing Performance of Micromixers with Fractal Obstacles Based on Murray's Law
Authors: Hou Chunming , Li Lunxing , Lv Ruihong , Tian Zhuang , Chen Xueye
Published: July 2021

Fractal obstacles with different geometric parameters based on Murray's law were designed. The obstacles were placed in T‐channels to disturb the flow of fluids. The influence of channel symmetry or asymmetry, branch angles, and the number of levels of obstacles on the mixing performance was studied. The mixing efficiency and pressure drop of the micromixers were calculated in the range of Reynolds numbers of 0.1–150, and the fluid flow in the microchannels was analyzed. The simulation results show that the fractal obstacles can generate chaotic convection in the microchannel of the micromixer and improve the mixing efficiency.
Elaborating the Iodine/Polyiodide Equilibrium Effects in Nanoporous Carbon‐based Battery Electrode via Extreme Mass Asymmetry in Hybrid Cells
Authors: Schranger H. , Khosravi S. , Fitzek H. , Abbas Q.
Published: July 2021

This article discusses the conversion of electrodeposited iodine to polyiodides within the nanopores of carbon electrodes that affect the performance of iodide electrolyte‐based electrochemical cells. Here, carbon electrodes have been polarized in aqueous sodium iodide electrolyte to store charge in the form of solid iodine via highly reversible reaction (2I−⇌I2+2e−). The stored iodine within the pores interacts with free iodide ions present in the bulk electrolyte via comproportionation reactions leading to polyiodide (I3− and I5−) formations. By tuning the mass asymmetry of carbon electrodes in hybrid cells and using the in‐situ Raman spectroscopy on positive battery electrode, we show the influence of iodine/polyiodides equilibrium shifts on the self‐discharge and voltage rebounds during open circuit conditions. This study provides insights into the charging mechanisms of carbon electrodes for iodine‐based hybrid supercapacitors and battery systems.
Prevention of pathogen microorganisms at indoor air ventilation system using synthesized copper nanoparticles
Authors: Machry Karine , de Souza Clóvis W. O. , Aguiar Mônica L. , Bernardo André
Published: July 2021

This article describes the impregnation of copper nanoparticles (CuNP) in a polyester fibre filter that can be used in solid–gas filtration to retain the spread of pathogen microorganisms in indoor environments. The impregnation of the CuNP was achieved by spraying the suspension on the surface of filter media. An acid pretreatment was also evaluated to increase the adhesion between fibre and nanoparticle. The synthesis of the CuNP was done by chemical reduction. The bacterial effect was measured through the contact method for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and we demonstrate that the presence of CuNP to filter media reduced up to 99.99% of gram‐negative and 99.98% of gram‐positive bacteria. The pretreatment with HCl was a good alternative to filter modification due to the higher adhesion between CuNP and the fibre while the high efficiency against pathogen microorganisms was kept. The modification of filters with CuNP can improve the air quality of indoor environments, vanishing the pathogen microorganisms circulating in the air.
Electrochemical Dimethyl Sulfide‐Mediated Esterification of Amino Acids
Authors: Li Yongli , Wang Huamin , Zhang Heng , Lei Aiwen
Published: July 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Dimethyl sulfide‐mediated electrochemical synthetic strategy for esterification of amino acids has been reported. A series of amino acids could react smoothly with alcohols, affording the desired esterification products with good efficiency. Importantly, the tolerance of peptides and gram‐scale synthesis shed light on the utility of this protocol. Mechanistically, the dimethyl sulfide as a mediator plays an essential role in the transformation of amino acids.
PROTOCOL: The association between whole‐grain dietary intake and noncommunicable diseases: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Iqbal Wasim A. , Stewart Gavin B. , Smith Abigail , Errington Linda , Seal Chris J.
Published: July 2021

Our primary research questions are: (1) What is the association between whole grains (WG) intake and the prevalence of NCDs (i.e., type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, cancer, mortality) and their biomarkers? (2) Which biomarker(s) has/have the greatest association with WG intake when combining multiple biomarkers together in the same analysis? Our secondary research question is: (3) Are there dose–response relationships between WG intake and biomarkers and prevalence of NCDs which could help inform a universal recommendation for WG intake?
Survival outcomes for cancer types with the highest death rates for adolescents and young adults, 1975‐2016
Authors: Lewis Denise Riedel , Siembida Elizabeth J. , Seibel Nita L. , Smith Ashley Wilder , Mariotto Angela B.
Published: July 2021

Background

Five‐year relative survival for adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer diagnosed at the ages of 15 to 39 years is 85%. Survival rates vary considerably according to the cancer type. The purpose of this study was to analyze long‐term survival trends for cancer types with the highest mortality among AYAs to determine where the greatest burden is and to identify areas for future research.

Methods

Using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry and the National Center for Health Statistics, the authors examined the incidence, mortality, and survival for the 9 cancer types with the highest mortality rates in this age group from 1975 to 2016. JPSurv, new survival trend software, was used in the analysis.

Results

Results suggested significant improvements in 5‐year relative survival for brain and other nervous system tumors, colon and rectum cancer, lung and bronchus cancer, acute myeloid leukemia, and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (all P values < .05). Limited or no improvement in survival was found for female breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and bone and joint sarcomas.

Conclusions

Five‐year relative survival for multiple cancer types in AYAs has improved, but some common cancer types in this group still show limited survival improvements (eg, ovarian cancer). Survival improvements in colorectal cancer have been overshadowed by its rising incidence, which suggests a substantial disease burden. Future research should focus on female breast, bone, ovarian, and cervical cancers, which have seen minimal or no improvements in survival.

Lay Summary

Survival trends for adolescents and young adults with cancer are presented from a 40‐year period.

Although survival progress is noted for brain cancer, lung cancer, acute myeloid leukemia, and colon and rectum cancer, the incidence of colon and rectum cancer remains high.

Minimal progress is evident for female breast, bone, ovarian, and cervical cancers, which are in need of renewed focus.
Cytologic diagnosis of metastatic melanoma by FNA: A practical review
Authors: Ronchi Andrea , Montella Marco , Zito Marino Federica , Argenziano Giuseppe , Moscarella Elvira , Brancaccio Gabriella , Ferraro Giuseppe , Nicoletti Giovanni Francesco , Troiani Teresa , Franco Renato , Cozzolino Immacolata
Published: July 2021

Malignant melanoma (MM) is a highly aggressive neoplasm with a growing worldwide incidence. It is not uncommon that the disease is already metastatic at the time of the first diagnosis. Regional lymph nodes and skin are the first and most common metastatic sites, followed by distant visceral sites (lungs, liver, and central nervous system) and bone. In this clinical setting, fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) often represents the first diagnostic approach. FNA is a useful tool to obtain a rapid and accurate diagnosis, in conjunction with ancillary techniques and molecular analysis, as recommended by recent guidelines. The aim of this review was to describe the cytomorphology, immunocytochemical tools, and molecular tools used for the diagnosis of MM metastases on FNA.
On the distributed software architecture of a data analysis workflow: A case study
Authors: Tasgetiren Nail , Tigrak Umit , Bozan Erdal , Gul Guven , Demirci Emir , Saribiyik Hakan , Aktas Mehmet S.
Published: July 2021

Hybrid distributed computing software architectures gain great importance in data analysis workflows as the number of available underlying machine learning libraries and data storage systems increase. We argue that there is a need for novel approaches for software architecture designs that can enable machine learning data analysis workflows to run on top of different subsystem libraries. To address this need, we propose a hybrid distributed software architecture in this manuscript. The proposed architecture manages machine learning models for both supervised and unsupervised machine learning data analysis workflows. To show the usability of the proposed architecture, we implement a prototype for the banking sector as a case study. The prototype application includes two data analysis workflows: a workflow for predicting the loan usage tendency of customers, and a workflow for clustering the customers based on the usage patterns of banking loans. The prototype is tested on a large scale banking dataset. Performance tests were carried out to investigate the performance in terms of both responsiveness and scalability of the system. The results obtained reveal the usability of the proposed architecture.
The Kinetics of 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of Vinyl Monomers to 2,2,5,5‐Tetramethyl‐3‐imidazoline‐3‐oxides
Authors: Cherkasov Sergey A. , Semikina Anastasiya D. , Kaletina Polina M. , Polienko Yulia F. , Morozov Denis A. , Maksimov Alexander M. , Kirilyuk Igor A. , Bagryanskaya Elena G. , Parkhomenko Dmitriy A.
Published: July 2021

In our previous work [Edeleva et al. Chem. Commun. 2019, 55, 190–193], we proposed a versatile approach to the activation of the homolysis of an aldonitrone group–containing alkoxyamine by 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition to a vinyl monomer. Both nitroxide‐ and alkoxyamine‐containing aldonitrones were found to be capable of reacting with the activated alkenes. In the present study, the kinetics of these reactions with 11 different vinyl monomers were investigated using EPR and NMR spectroscopy, and apparent activation energies as well as pre‐exponential factors were determined. The influence of monomer structure on the rate of the 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition is discussed. For the vinyl monomers typically used in nitroxide mediated polymerization (styrene, methyl methacrylate) the rate coefficient of cycloaddition to the nitroxide is around k(353 K) ∼4 ⋅ 10−4 L mol−1 s−1, whereas for n‐butyl acrylate and methyl vinyl ketone we observed the fastest cycloaddition reaction with k(353 K)=8 ⋅ 10−3 and 4 ⋅ 10−2 L mol−1 s−1 respectively.
Distribution and transport of microplastic and fine particulate organic matter in urban streams
Authors: Vincent Anna E. S. , Hoellein Timothy J.
Published: July 2021

Plastic litter is accumulating in ecosystems worldwide. Rivers are a major source of plastic litter to oceans. However, rivers also retain and transform plastic pollution. While methods for calculating particle transport dynamics in rivers are well established, they are infrequently used to quantify the transport and retention of microplastics (i.e., particles < 5 mm) in flowing waters. Measurements of microplastic movement in rivers are needed for a greater understanding of the fate of plastic litter at watershed and global scales, and to inform pollution prevention strategies. Our objectives were to (1) quantify the abundance of microplastics within different river habitats and (2) adapt organic matter “spiraling” metrics to measure microplastic transport concurrent with fine particulate organic matter (FPOM). We quantified microplastic and FPOM abundance across urban river habitats (i.e., surface water, water column, benthos), and calculated downstream particle velocity, index of retention, turnover rate, and spiraling length for both particle types. Microplastic standing stock was assessed using a habitat‐specific approach, and estimates were scaled up to encompass the study reach. Spatial distribution of particles demonstrated that microplastics and FPOM were retained together, likely by hydrodynamic forces that facilitate particle sinking or resuspension. Microplastic particles had a higher downstream particle velocity and lower index of retention relative to FPOM, suggesting that microplastics were retained to a lesser degree than FPOM in the study reaches. Microplastics also showed lower turnover rates and longer spiraling lengths relative to FPOM, attributed to the slow rates of plastic degradation. Thus, rivers are less retentive of microplastics than FPOM, although both particles are retained in similar locations. Because microplastics are resistant to degradation, individual particles can be transported longer distances prior to mineralization than FPOM, making it likely that microplastic particles will encounter larger bodies of water and interact with various aquatic biota in the process. These empirical assessments of particle transport will be valuable for understanding the fate and transformation of microplastic particles in freshwater resources and ultimately contribute to the refinement of global plastic budgets.
Considering a risk profile based on emergency department utilization in young people with eating disorders: Implications for early detection
Authors: Redekopp Carlie , Dimitropoulos Gina , Patten Scott , Kassam Aliya
Published: July 2021

Objective

While screening tools are available for the early identification of eating disorders, it may not be feasible to employ them in an emergency department (ED). Establishing a risk profile may improve the screening process. The purpose of this study was to investigate ED service utilization among patients with eating disorders and create a risk profile to help detect eating disorders at an earlier and more treatable stage.

Method

We applied a concurrent mixed methods research design, however, only the quantitative findings will be presented. Our study involved a retrospective cohort analysis of administrative ED health data for patients (n = 243) aged 12–24 years in an eating disorders program. Two control groups: (1) all‐cause (n = 716), (2) and mental health (n = 679) were included.

Results

68.7% of eating disorder patients were discharged from the ED without follow‐up being arranged. Comorbidities were recorded as the primary or secondary diagnosis, and patients presented with suicidality more frequently than controls (χ = 31.2, p < .001). Patients accessed ED services five times more often than controls.

Discussion

Despite eating disorder patients accessing the ED more frequently than controls, eating disorder diagnoses were not always assigned or documented. Our findings highlight the importance of enhanced eating disorder training for ED health care staff to better understand the risk profile, and the consideration of comorbidities and suicide risk when assessing patients to ensure early detection.

Conclusion

As eating disorders are often undetected, more comprehensive training and access to screening tools may help improve detection, mitigate symptom progression, and enhance patient safety.
Shared friends counterbalance shared enemies in old forests
Authors: Germain Sara J. , Lutz James A.
Published: July 2021

Mycorrhizal mutualisms are nearly ubiquitous across plant communities. Yet, it is still unknown whether facilitation among plants arises primarily from these mycorrhizal networks or from physical and ecological attributes of plants themselves. Here, we tested the relative contributions of mycorrhizae and plants to both positive and negative biotic interactions to determine whether plant–soil feedbacks with mycorrhizae neutralize competition and enemies within multitrophic forest community networks. We used Bayesian hierarchical generalized linear modeling to examine mycorrhizal‐guild‐specific and mortality‐cause‐specific woody plant survival compiled from a spatially and temporally explicit data set comprising 101,096 woody plants from three mixed‐conifer forests across western North America. We found positive plant–soil feedbacks for large‐diameter trees: species‐rich woody plant communities indirectly promoted large tree survival when connected via mycorrhizal networks. Shared mycorrhizae primarily counterbalanced apparent competition mediated by tree enemies (e.g., bark beetles, soil pathogens) rather than diffuse competition between plants. We did not find the same survival benefits for small trees or shrubs. Our findings suggest that lower large‐diameter tree mortality susceptibility in species‐rich temperate forests resulted from greater access to shared mycorrhizal networks. The interrelated importance of aboveground and belowground biodiversity to large tree survival may be critical for counteracting increasing pathogen, bark beetle, and density threats.
Customizable and Regioselective One‐Pot N−H Functionalization of DNA Nucleobases to Create a Library of Nucleobase Derivatives for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Rocha Djenisa H. A. , Machado Carmen M. , Sousa Vera , Sousa Cristiana F. V. , Silva Vera L. M. , Silva Artur M. S. , Borges João , Mano João F.
Published: July 2021

DNA is one of the most exciting biomolecules in nature for developing supramolecular biofunctional nanoarchitectures owing to the highly specific and selective interactions between complementary Watson‐Crick base pairing. Herein, simple and one‐pot synthetic procedures have been implemented for producing a library of DNA nucleobase derivatives endowed with reactive functional groups for bioconjugation and cross‐linking strategies with other (bio)molecules. Purine and pyrimidine molecules have been regioselectively N−H functionalized either via N‐alkylation, N‐allylation, N‐propargylation or Michael‐type reactions and structurally characterized. The influence of the reaction conditions was assessed and discussed. The in vitro biocompatibility of the native and nucleobase derivatives was evaluated by culturing them with human fibroblasts, revealing their cytocompatibility. The library of nucleobase derivatives holds great promise for being coupled to different biomolecules, including biopolymeric materials, lipids, and peptides, thus potentially leading to modular supramolecular nanobiomaterials for biomedicine.
Enhanced sequestration of carbon dioxide into calcium carbonate using pressure and a carbonic anhydrase from alkaliphilic Coleofasciculus chthonoplastes
Authors: Heuer Jonas , Kraus Yasemin , Vučak Marijan , Zeng An‐Ping
Published: July 2021

CO2 in the atmosphere is a major contributor to global warming but at the same time it has the potential to be a carbon source for advanced biomanufacturing. To utilize CO2, carbonic anhydrase has been identified as a key enzyme. Furthermore, attempts have been made to accelerate the sequestration via pressure. This study aims to combine both approaches to achieve high sequestration rates. The carbonic anhydrase of the alkaliphilic cyanobacterium Coleofasciculus chthonoplastes (cahB1) and bovine carbonic anhydrase (BCA) are introduced into a high‐pressure reactor to catalyze the hydration of CO2 at up to 20 bar. The reactor is filled with a CaCl2 solution. Due to the presence of Ca2+, the hydrated CO2 precipitates as CaCO3. The impact of the carbonic anhydrase is clearly visible at all pressures tested. At ambient pressure a CO2 sequestration rate of 243.68 kgCaCO3/m3 h for cahB1 was achieved compared to 150.41 kgCaCO3/m3 h without enzymes. At 20 bar the rates were 2682.88 and 2267.88 kgCaCO3/m3 h, respectively. The study shows the benefit of a combined CO2 sequestration process. To examinate the influence of the enzymes on the product formation, the precipitated CaCO3 was analyzed regarding the crystalline phase and morphology. An interchange of the crystalline phase from vaterite to calcite was observed and discussed.
Oxygen‐Rich Porous Activated Carbon from Eucalyptus Wood as an Efficient Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Atika  , Dutta Raj Kumar
Published: July 2021

Herein, lignin‐rich KOH‐activated porous carbon from eucalyptus wood (named as PACE) is presented as an efficient electrode for supercapacitors (SCs). Compared with the most commonly used higher activation temperature, i.e., 800 °C with KOH (PACE‐800), a more efficient SC is developed by activating carbon with KOH at lesser temperature, i.e., 600 °C (PACE‐600). The high specific capacitance (i.e., 230 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 measured in a 2 m NaCl electrolyte) measured by galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) studies is not primarily due to larger surface area, but due to the inherent electron‐rich oxygen‐based functionalities that persist at the lower activation temperature, contributing to the hydrophilic nature to PACE‐600. The mechanism of the capacitive charge storage is deduced from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The application of PACE‐600 as a SC electrode is confirmed from insignificant loss in the specific capacitance after 10 000 charging–discharging cycles, recorded at 10 A g−1. Further, fabrication of higher‐voltage (1.6 V) symmetric SC PACE‐600//PACE‐600 in aqueous neutral electrolyte (2 m NaCl) is presented, which illuminates a red LED (1.8 V) for 1 min after charging for 5 s. The corresponding energy density is calculated to be 41 W h kg−1, and at a power density of 2396 W kg−1.
Demonstrating the feasibility of digital health to support pediatric patients in South Africa
Authors: Davies Elin Haf , Fieggen Karen , Wilmshurst Jo , Anyanwu Obuchinezia , Burman Richard Joseph , Komarzynski Sandra
Published: July 2021

Objective

Resources for management of epilepsy in Africa are extremely limited reinforcing the need to develop innovative strategies for optimizing care. Studies have shown that the prevalence of epilepsy in low‐ and middle‐income countries is substantially greater than in more resourced countries. The objective of this report was to demonstrate that mobile Health (mHealth) technologies have the potential to improve the management of epilepsy in Africa.

Methods

The feasibility of technology‐based home monitoring was investigated in an observational study of 40 children with refractory epilepsy or epilepsy associated with intellectual disability and/or behavior difficulties in South Africa. Technology‐based home monitoring was implemented for six months. Physical activity, sleep, and heart rate were continuously monitored with a wearable device. Caregivers completed regular mobile Patient Reported Outcomes (mPROs) and reported seizures and ad hoc events using a dedicated app. Feasibility was assessed and descriptively measured for recruitment, retention, and engagement of the participants.

Results

The mHealth technology was able to capture important information that gives an impression of the overall experience of the children and their caregivers. Thirty‐seven participants (94.9%) reported at least one clinical event. Seventy‐nine percent of caregivers reported seizure events in their children, which were the primary event anticipated. Median engagement with the wearable device and monthly mPROs was 30.8% and 57.1%, respectively. However, most participants (87%) had to be given smartphones for them to have Bluetooth capabilities and access to the study app. Tolerability to the device was impacted by the difficult living circumstances of caregivers that induced fear of loss or theft.

Significance

The study showed how the use of remote patient monitoring in the form of mHealth can benefit epilepsy patients, despite highly variable engagement with the technology. The combination of mPROs and wearable devices generated informative datasets that will allow clinicians but also the children and their caregivers to better understand and manage the disease.
Bioactive substances and potentiality of marine microalgae
Authors: Wu Jinhong , Gu Xinzhe , Yang Danlu , Xu Shannan , Wang Shaoyun , Chen Xu , Wang Zhengwu
Published: July 2021

Microalgae is one of the most important components in the aquatic ecosystem, and they are increasingly used in food and medicine production for human consumption due to their rapid growth cycle and survival ability in the harsh environment. Now, the exploration of microalgae has been gradually deepening, mainly focused on the field of nutrition, medicine, and cosmetics. A great deal of studies has shown that microalgae have a variety of functions in regulating the body health and preventing disease, such as nitrogen fixation, antitumor, antivirus, antioxidation, anti‐inflammatory, and antithrombotic. Furthermore, microalgae can synthesize various high‐valued bioactive substances, such as proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, and pigments. In this paper, we have briefly reviewed the research progress of main bioactive components in microalgae, proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, pigments, and other nutrients included, as well as their present application situation. This paper can provide the guidance for research and development of industrial production of microalgae.
The influence of gastrointestinal pH on speciation of copper in simulated digestive juice
Authors: Wu Min , Ke Leqin , Zhi Mingyu , Qin Yumei , Han Jianzhong
Published: July 2021

Speciation can provide knowledge about absorption, reactivity to binding sites, bioavailability, toxicity, and excretion of elements. In this study, the speciation of copper in different model solutions under the influence of gastrointestinal (GI) pH was studied by ion selective electrode (ISE) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). It was found that the electrode response (mV) against Cu2+ decreased with the increase in pH and dropped to the lowest point at pH 7.5 in all model solutions. When amino acids and organic acids were present, the ratio of filtered copper (0.45 μm, pH 7.5) was more than 90%. When casein was present, whey protein, pancreatin, and starch were added, and the ratio of filtered copper was 85.6 ± 0.3, 56.7 ± 8.8, 38.5 ± 5.1, and 1.0 ± 0.3%, respectively. When there is not enough organic ligand, excessive copper will form copper hydroxide precipitation with the increase in pH, but it got the highest electrode response (mV) against Cu2+. From this study, it can be concluded that the speciation of copper in GI tract is strongly influenced by the pH and the composition of food. When there are few ligands coexisting in the GI tract, the concentration of copper ion may be relatively high.