bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D‐Printed Soft Lithography for Complex Compartmentalized Microfluidic Neural Devices
Authors: Kajtez Janko , Buchmann Sebastian , Vasudevan Shashank , Birtele Marcella , Rocchetti Stefano , Pless Christian Jonathan , Heiskanen Arto , Barker Roger A. , Martínez‐Serrano Alberto , Parmar Malin , Lind Johan Ulrik , Emnéus Jenny
Published: June 2020

Compartmentalized microfluidic platforms are an invaluable tool in neuroscience research. However, harnessing the full potential of this technology remains hindered by the lack of a simple fabrication approach for the creation of intricate device architectures with high‐aspect ratio features. Here, a hybrid additive manufacturing approach is presented for the fabrication of open‐well compartmentalized neural devices that provides larger freedom of device design, removes the need for manual postprocessing, and allows an increase in the biocompatibility of the system. Suitability of the method for multimaterial integration allows to tailor the device architecture for the long‐term maintenance of healthy human stem‐cell derived neurons and astrocytes, spanning at least 40 days. Leveraging fast‐prototyping capabilities at both micro and macroscale, a proof‐of‐principle human in vitro model of the nigrostriatal pathway is created. By presenting a route for novel materials and unique architectures in microfluidic systems, the method provides new possibilities in biological research beyond neuroscience applications.
The Stabilization Effect of CO2 in Lithium–Oxygen/CO2 Batteries
Authors: Chen Kai , Huang Gang , Ma Jin‐Ling , Wang Jin , Yang Dong‐Yue , Yang Xiao‐Yang , Yu Yue , Zhang Xin‐Bo
Published: June 2020

The lithium (Li)–air battery has an ultrahigh theoretical specific energy, however, even in pure oxygen (O2), the vulnerability of conventional organic electrolytes and carbon cathodes towards reaction intermediates, especially O2−, and corrosive oxidation and crack/pulverization of Li metal anode lead to poor cycling stability of the Li‐air battery. Even worse, the water and/or CO2 in air bring parasitic reactions and safety issues. Therefore, applying such systems in open‐air environment is challenging. Herein, contrary to previous assertions, we have found that CO2 can improve the stability of both anode and electrolyte, and a high‐performance rechargeable Li–O2/CO2 battery is developed. The CO2 not only facilitates the in situ formation of a passivated protective Li2CO3 film on the Li anode, but also restrains side reactions involving electrolyte and cathode by capturing O2−. Moreover, the Pd/CNT catalyst in the cathode can extend the battery lifespan by effectively tuning the product morphology and catalyzing the decomposition of Li2CO3. The Li–O2/CO2 battery achieves a full discharge capacity of 6628 mAh g−1 and a long life of 715 cycles, which is even better than those of pure Li–O2 batteries.
Welding and reprocessing of disulfide‐containing thermoset epoxy resin exhibiting behavior reminiscent of a thermoplastic
Authors: Memon Hafeezullah , Wei Yi
Published: June 2020

Thermoset resins generally lack the ability to be welded or reprocessed like thermoplastics because of their cross‐links. Increasing use of fiber‐reinforced composites in large structures, such as rail and aircraft parts, as well as wind blades, calls for better ways to repair damages and be compliant with recycling and environmental regulations. In this article, an epoxy resin containing disulfide bonds was prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR. The dynamic nature of the disulfide bonds allowed the cured epoxy resin to be welded like thermoplastics, and the welded joints had strength that matched the resin's cohesive strength. It could also be reprocessed with 90% tensile strength retention after three reprocessing cycles, allowing the parts to be repaired instead of being replaced. In addition, the cured resin was chemically degradable in a thiol‐based solvent, allowing it to be recycled in closed‐loop processes. Moreover, the cured epoxy resin showed a glass transition temperature of 116°C, demonstrating its potential for advanced composite applications.
Occupancy dynamics of rare cyprinids after invasive fish eradication
Authors: Castañeda Rowshyra A. , Mandrak Nicholas E. , Barrow Stuart , Weyl Olaf L. F.
Published: June 2020

The eradication of invasive species is a management strategy implemented to eliminate adverse impacts of invaders on native species communities. After eradications, follow‐up studies are done to confirm eradication of the invasive species and the short‐term recovery of the native species, but long‐term monitoring to confirm full population recovery and stability is often not completed.

In this study, long‐term monitoring of native fishes was carried out over 5 years after the eradication of an invasive fish from the Rondegat River, South Africa. Forty‐six sites distributed along four river sections were sampled for presence/absence using underwater cameras and snorkel surveys. Density data were collected by snorkel surveys.

Using multi‐season occupancy models, the annual probability of colonization and local extinction of the native fishes and annual rate of change in occupancy along the river were estimated. Changes in native fish densities across time and across the control and treatment sections were analysed using Kruskal–Wallis analysis, followed by Dunn's post‐hoc test.

Probability of colonization and local extinction differed for each native fish species and may have been affected by extrinsic factors, such as rainfall, and intrinsic density‐dependent factors, hypothesized from the density data. The occupancy rates of change revealed that the two Near Threatened fish species have reached an occupancy dynamic equilibrium but the Endangered fish has not, suggesting that other conservation efforts may be needed.

Long‐term monitoring of native fishes after an eradication programme has confirmed the successful removal of the invader and the recovery and stability of the community. However, successful eradication was not sufficient for full recovery of all species; additional conservation management strategies are needed to secure the population stability and persistence of endangered fishes. We recommend that eradication programmes, regardless of locality, should employ long‐term monitoring to ensure full recovery of a native fish community.
The value of contemporary social significance in archaeological assessment and its implications for current legislative reform: a case study from the Esperance region, Western Australia
Authors: MITCHELL MYLES B. , GUILFOYLE DAVID R.
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a case study of an Aboriginal heritage assessment conducted with the Esperance Nyungars in southern Western Australia. The study incorporates contemporary social significance with archaeological assessment to form a holistic cultural significance statement for the landscapes surrounding the Munglinup River. The results are analysed with reference to the currently proposed legislative reform of the Western Australian Aboriginal Heritage Act. The analysis has relevance for archaeological assessment methodologies, cultural heritage management, legislation reform and administration of the current and future Western Australian Aboriginal Heritage Act. This case study demonstrates the value of incorporating social significance into archaeological assessments, including custodial responsibilities, cultural landscapes and the links between ecology and cultural heritage.
Dissection versus Prosection: A Comparative Assessment of the Course Experiences, Approaches to Learning, and Academic Performance of Non‐medical Undergraduate Students in Human Anatomy
Authors: McWatt Sean C. , Newton Genevieve S. , Umphrey Gary J. , Jadeski Lorraine C.
Published: June 2020

Many institutions rely upon prosection‐based laboratories as more resource‐efficient and time‐effective alternatives to traditional cadaver dissection for human anatomy education. To facilitate growing enrollment numbers despite resource limitations, the University of Guelph (a non‐medical institution) introduced a modified “stepwise” prosection‐based laboratory cohort to supplement a dissection‐based course. In this design, all students attended the same lectures, but those in the dissection‐based cohort learned by performing regional dissections and students in the prosection‐based cohort studied from those dissections. Prosection students thereby witnessed a “slow reveal” of structures throughout the course. This study compared the perceived course experiences, student approaches to learning, and academic performance between the two groups. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to isolate the effect of the laboratory environment on student approaches to learning and academic performance from demographic and situational covariates. Both groups reported positive course experience ratings and high average final grades that were not statistically dissimilar (P > 0.05), increased reliance on deep approaches to learning (P = 0.002), and decreased reliance on surface approaches to learning (P = 0.023). When controlling for covariates, participation in dissection had small but statistically significant positive associations with deep approaches to learning (P = 0.043), performance on laboratory oral assessments (P < 0.001), and average final grades (P = 0.039). Ultimately, both designs promoted meaningful learning and desirable performance outcomes, indicating that both dissection and stepwise prosection have the potential to facilitate high quality human anatomy instruction.
Neural‐network‐embedded distributed average tracking of agents with matching unknown nonlinearities
Authors: Yue Dongdong , Li Qi , Chong Kil To , Cao Jinde
Published: June 2020

This paper studies a distributed average tracking problem for a class of networked agents subject to heterogeneous unknown nonlinearities. The object is to design distributed protocols so as to drive these dynamic agents cooperatively tracking the average of multiple unknown signals. First, an initialize‐free robust algorithm is designed for each agent incorporating a local filter, a neural network (NN) compensator, and state‐dependent coupling gains with its neighbors. Here the filter is crucial for seeking the average of multiple references signals and is necessary due to the existence of uncertainties in the agents' dynamics. Then, by using adaption schemes, the algorithm is extended to a dynamic version releasing the requirement of certain global information such as the eigenvalues of the network Laplacian and the NN approximation errors. Both algorithms are rigorously proved to guarantee asymptotical average tracking with the help of well‐designed Lyapunov candidates. Finally, two illustrative examples are provided to validate the theoretical results.
Organic solvent stability and long‐term storage of myoglobin‐based carbene transfer biocatalysts
Authors: Pineda‐Knauseder Alfons J. , Vargas David A. , Fasan Rudi
Published: June 2020

Recent years have witnessed a rapid increase in the application of enzymes for chemical synthesis and manufacturing, including the industrial‐scale synthesis of pharmaceuticals using multienzyme processes. From an operational standpoint, these bioprocesses often require robust biocatalysts capable of tolerating high concentrations of organic solvents and possessing long shelflife stability. In this work, we investigated the activity and stability of myoglobin (Mb)‐based carbene transfer biocatalysts in the presence of organic solvents and after lyophilization. Our studies demonstrate that Mb‐based cyclopropanases possess remarkable organic solvent stability, maintaining high levels of activity and stereoselectivity in the presence of up to 30%–50% (v/v) concentrations of various organic solvents, including ethanol, methanol, N,N‐dimethylformamide, acetonitrile, and dimethyl sulfoxide. Furthermore, they tolerate long‐term storage in lyophilized form, both as purified protein and as whole cells, without significant loss in activity and stereoselectivity. These stability properties are shared by Mb‐based carbene transferases optimized for other type of asymmetric carbene transfer reactions. Finally, we report on simple protocols for catalyst recycling as whole‐cell system and for obviating the need for strictly anaerobic conditions to perform these transformations. These findings demonstrate the robustness of Mb‐based carbene transferases under operationally relevant conditions and should help guide the application of these biocatalysts for synthetic applications.
Insights into DNA‐drug interactions in the era of omics
Authors: Portugal José
Published: June 2020

Despite the rise of sophisticated new targeting strategies in cancer chemotherapy, many classic DNA‐binding drugs remain on the front line of the therapy against cancer. Based on examples primarily from the author's laboratory, this article reviews the capabilities of several DNA‐binding drugs to alter gene expression. Research is ongoing about the molecular bases of the inhibition of gene expression and how alteration of the cellular transcriptome can commit cancer cells to die. The development of a variety of omic techniques allows us to gain insights into the effect of antitumor drugs. Genome‐wide approaches provide unbiased genomic data that can facilitate a deeper understanding of the cellular response to DNA‐binding drugs. Moreover, the results of large‐scale genomic studies are gathered in publicly available databases that can be used in developing precision medicine in cancer treatment.
Alveolar mimics with periodic strain and its effect on the cell layer formation
Authors: Radiom Milad , He Yong , Peng‐Wang Juan , Baeza‐Squiban Armelle , Berret Jean‐François , Chen Yong
Published: June 2020

We report on the development of a new model of alveolar air–tissue interface on a chip. The model consists of an array of suspended hexagonal monolayers of gelatin nanofibers supported by microframes and a microfluidic device for the patch integration. The suspended monolayers are deformed to a central displacement of 40–80 µm at the air–liquid interface by application of air pressure in the range of 200–1,000 Pa. With respect to the diameter of the monolayers, that is, 500 µm, this displacement corresponds to a linear strain of 2–10% in agreement with the physiological strain range in the lung alveoli. The culture of A549 cells on the monolayers for an incubation time of 1–3 days showed viability in the model. We exerted a periodic strain of 5% at a frequency of 0.2 Hz for 1 hr to the cells. We found that the cells were strongly coupled to the nanofibers, but the strain reduced the coupling and induced remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton, which led to a better tissue formation. Our model can serve as a versatile tool in lung investigations such as in inhalation toxicology and therapy.
Supply chain collaboration and eco‐innovations: An institutional perspective from China
Authors: Hofman Peter S. , Blome Constantin , Schleper Martin C. , Subramanian Nachiappan
Published: June 2020

This study explores the impact of supply chain collaboration on eco‐innovations in the context of 220 Chinese manufacturing supplier firms involved in global supply chain networks. It investigates how supplier and customer collaborations help firms to enhance product eco‐innovations, and/or process eco‐innovations, and how the institutional context (i.e., regulatory, market, and community pressures) influences these relationships. The structural equation modeling approach is used to analyze the data captured from medium and large manufacturing enterprises in three major sectors: automotive, electronics, and textiles. The results show that community pressure has a positive effect on supplier collaboration, which further leads to enhanced process eco‐innovation. On the other hand, the findings indicate that while market pressure enhances customer collaboration, this does not reinforce product eco‐innovation. Contrary to our expectation, regulatory pressures do not impact supplier or customer collaboration for innovation. Overall, different institutional factors indicate divergent effects on supply chain collaboration and product/process eco‐innovation. The importance of normative pressures, such as those applied through the local community and interest groups, for eco‐innovations in production processes is further discussed as a typical feature of the institutional environment of Chinese supplier firms.
Design of a physical education training system based on an intelligent vision
Authors: Xie Mingqiu
Published: June 2020

After the party's 18th National Party Congress, our party put forward the call to "strengthen physical stress and promote the healthy development of young people's physical and mental health," and prioritized the health of young people at a strategic level. Schools are in an optimal position to cater for the physical and mental development of young people, and the traditional teaching system does not generate interest among students. Physical education (PE) teaching will not be too beneficial. In the proposed PE, it is necessary to continuously innovate the content, methods, and means of teaching. In PE teaching, students' interest in learning should be continuously cultivated so that they can be motivated to participate in physical exercise. With the development of information technology, the school's educational curriculum and teaching methods have also been greatly affected. Modern communication technology, because of the Internet and mobile 4G, has led to breakthrough developments in PE and sports in schools, an intelligent vision based on intelligent vision technology. Sports equipment have been widely used in sports and fitness. For example, the American company Zepp has developed some intelligent vision devices for baseball, tennis, and golf. An athlete can use a lightweight motion sensor to record his or her actions. The relevant data can be uploaded to a server or mobile terminal.
Serum uric acid levels and risk of kidney cancer incidence and mortality: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Dai Xiao‐Yu , He Qiang‐Sheng , Jing Zhong , Yuan Jin‐Qiu
Published: June 2020

Objective

Epidemiological evidence investigating serum uric acid and kidney cancer risk remains unclear. We conducted this study to examine the relationship between serum uric acid and the incidence and mortality of kidney cancer.

Methods

This is a prospective analysis of 444 462 participants without any cancer from the UK Biobank. Serum uric acid was measured at baseline and the incidence and mortality of kidney cancer was determined through contact with the cancer and death registry. Cox regression models were fitted to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI), adjusting for demography, lifestyle style, comorbidities, and medication use.

Results

We documented 638 incidence cases and 188 mortality cases of kidney cancer over a median of 6.5 years follow‐up. People with the highest quartile had a 45% increased risk of kidney cancer compared to those with the lowest uric acid quartile (HR 1.45, 95%CI 1.08 to 1.93). Subgroup analyses showed that serum uric acid was associated with cancer risk among females but not among males (Q1 vs Q4: females HR1.47, 95%CI 1.01 to 2.16; males HR 1.19, 95%CI 0.91 to 1.56). Although we found serum uric acid was associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer mortality in age‐stratified model (HR 2.49, 95% CI 1.61 to 3.84), this association disappeared after further adjustment for other confounders.

Conclusions

High uric acid is associated with a high incidence of kidney cancer, especially in women. More research is needed to confirm our findings.
Breast cancer supplemental screening: Women’s knowledge and utilization in the era of dense breast legislation
Authors: Aminawung Jenerius A. , Hoag Jessica R. , Kyanko Kelly A. , Xu Xiao , Richman Ilana B. , Busch Susan H. , Gross Cary P.
Published: June 2020

Background

Given the growth in dense breast notification (DBN) legislation in the United States, we examined the association between different types of DBN laws and supplemental screening behaviors among women.

Methods

We surveyed in March–April 2018 a nationally representative sample of women aged 40‐59 years who received a routine screening mammogram in the past 18 months. Survey items included the following topics regarding supplemental screening: discussing risks or benefits with a provider, knowledge about the risk of false positives, and utilization. We grouped women by state DBN into non‐DBN, generic DBN (mentions breast density but not supplemental screening), DBN that mentions supplemental screening (DBN‐SS), and DBN with mandated insurance coverage for supplemental screening (DBN‐coverage), and estimated adjusted predicted probabilities for supplemental screening behaviors.

Results

Of 1641 women surveyed, 21.3% resided in non‐DBN, 41.2% in generic DBN, 25.8% in DBN‐SS, and 12.5% in DBN‐coverage states. Overall, 23.0% of respondents had discussed supplemental screening with a provider, 11.3% of whom discussed the risks, and 49.5% discussed the benefits. In adjusted analysis, women living in DBN‐coverage states were more likely to discuss supplemental screening (27.5%) than women in non‐DBN states (13.6%); pairwise contrast 13.8% (95% CI, 2.1% to 25.6%; P = .01). They were also more likely to have received supplemental screening for increased breast density (19.3%) compared to women living in non‐DBN (9.9%); contrast 9.4% (95% CI, 1.6% to 17.3%; P = .01), Generic DBN (7.3%); difference 12.0% (95% CI, 4.6% to 19.4%; P =< .001), and DBN‐SS (8.8%); contrast 10.5% (95% CI, 2.6% to 18.5%; P < .01) states.

Conclusions

Women in DBN‐coverage states were more likely to discuss supplemental screening with their providers, and to undergo supplemental screening, compared to women in states with other types of DBN laws, or without DBN laws.
Exosomal microRNA‐4661‐5p–based serum panel as a potential diagnostic biomarker for early‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Cho Hyo Jung , Baek Geum Ok , Seo Chul Won , Ahn Hye Ri , Sung Suna , Son Ju A , Kim Soon Sun , Cho Sung Won , Jang Jeong Won , Nam Suk Woo , Cheong Jae Youn , Eun Jung Woo
Published: June 2020

Currently, a reliable serum biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been established, particularly for early‐stage HCC (single tumor < 2 cm). We aimed to investigate diagnostic serum exosomal microRNA (exo‐miR) panel for early‐stage HCC. Driver oncogenic miR (onco‐miR) candidates were selected by integrative analysis of miR expression profiles from three different RNA sequencing datasets of human HCC. Expressions of selected onco‐miRs in serum exosome were measured using quantitative real‐time PCR. Diagnostic performances of serum exo‐miRs for HCC were evaluated in the test cohort (N = 24) and validation cohort (N = 144). Serum exo‐miR panels were developed using a logistic regression model, and their diagnostic performance was evaluated. Six promising driver onco‐miRs, including miR‐25‐3p, miR‐140‐3p, miR‐423‐3p, miR‐1269a, miR‐4661‐5p, and miR‐4746‐5p, were identified by integrative analysis of three different RNA sequencing datasets. Among the six candidates, four serum exo‐miRs (miR‐25‐3p, miR‐1269a, miR‐4661‐5p, and miR‐4746‐5p) showed promising performance in the test cohort with area under the receiving operator curve (AUROC) >0.8. In our validation study, serum exo‐miR‐4661‐5p could diagnose HCC in all stages (AUROC = 0.917), even in early stage (AUROC = 0.923), with a greater accuracy than other candidate serum exo‐miRs and serum AFP. The panel composed of exo‐miR‐4661‐5p and exo‐miR‐4746‐5p was identified as the most accurate biomarker for early‐stage HCC (AUROC = 0.947, 95% confidence interval = 0.889‐0.980, sensitivity = 81.8%, and specificity = 91.7%). In conclusion, exo‐miR‐4661‐5p–based serum panel is a promising diagnostic marker for early‐stage HCC.
Fragment‐Based Discovery of Non‐bisphosphonate Binders of Trypanosoma brucei Farnesyl Pyrophosphate Synthase
Authors: Münzker Lena , Petrick Joy Kristin , Schleberger Christian , Clavel Damien , Cornaciu Irina , Wilcken Rainer , Márquez José A. , Klebe Gerhard , Marzinzik Andreas , Jahnke Wolfgang
Published: June 2020

Trypanosoma brucei is the causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT). Nitrogen‐containing bisphosphonates, a current treatment for bone diseases, have been shown to block the growth of the T. brucei parasites by inhibiting farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPPS); however, due to their poor pharmacokinetic properties, they are not well suited for antiparasitic therapy. Recently, an allosteric binding pocket was discovered on human FPPS, but its existence on trypanosomal FPPS was unclear. We applied NMR and X‐ray fragment screening to T. brucei FPPS and report herein on four fragments bound to this previously unknown allosteric site. Surprisingly, non‐bisphosphonate active‐site binders were also identified. Moreover, fragment screening revealed a number of additional binding sites. In an early structure–activity relationship (SAR) study, an analogue of an active‐site binder was unexpectedly shown to bind to the allosteric site. Overlaying identified fragment binders of a parallel T. cruzi FPPS fragment screen with the T. brucei FPPS structure, and medicinal chemistry optimisation based on two binders revealed another example of fragment “pocket hopping”. The discovery of binders with new chemotypes sets the framework for developing advanced compounds with pharmacokinetic properties suitable for the treatment of parasitic infections by inhibition of FPPS in T. brucei parasites.
Estimated prevalence and impact of the experience of becoming a victim of exhibitionism and frotteurism in Korea: A general population based study
Authors: Choi Boram , Kim In , Lee Gyu Y. , Kim Sanga , Kim Seung H. , Lee Jin G. , Lim Myung H.
Published: June 2020

Exhibitionism and frotteurism are often considered just nuisance crimes but may cause serious distress to the victims. Previous studies of victim experience have focused on specific groups, such as healthcare professionals or university students. To estimate the prevalence of victimisation by exhibitionism and frotteurism among young general population adults in Korea and to describe the impact of such experiences, trained researchers randomly recruited young adults for face to face interviews at transport hubs and on university campuses. In addition, we posted the questionnaire as a Google survey to a limited number of local websites. Data were analysed descriptively. Of 900 people directly approached, 747 (83%) agreed participation, as did 423 online. These two samples were similar demographically, so combined for analyses. Two hundred and thirty‐five (20%) reported experiencing exhibitionism and 130 (11%) frotteurism. Exposure victims were older (means 23.2:21.1 years) and more likely to be women than frotteur victims. All but two exposure and nine frotteur perpetrators were said to be men. Reporting to police was rare (17 exposure, 2 frotteur); most exposure victims (73%) but under half of frotteur victims told family or friends. All but 15% of each group had bad feelings about the experience, varying by experience type. Ten percent of exposure and 20% of frotteur victims described distress lasting months; more reported enduring behaviour changes, like avoiding subways. Although our sample is unlikely to be wholly representative of the general population, our research examines a broader range of people than previous studies. Most victims of these “nuisance crimes” were distressed by them, and, hitherto less well recognised, at least a fifth of such victims may have long‐term distress. Further research could establish the extent to which support outside the family or friends' group or treatment would be indicated.
Pacemaker need after TAVR: Still a conundrum
Authors: Lisko John C. , Block Peter C.
Published: June 2020

Key Points

Seven percent of patients (with no history of intraventricular conduction abnormalities) experienced intraprocedural high‐degree Atrioventricular (AV)/complete heart block.

High‐degree/complete heart block was persistent in 64% of patients who developed significant intraprocedural intraventricular conduction abnormalities.

Ninety‐seven percent of patients with persistent high‐degree AV/complete block ultimately required pacemaker implantation.
Cardiac MRI prior to liver biopsy in a Fontan patient: A case report
Authors: Bassareo Pier Paolo , Walsh Kevin Patrick , Murray John Gerard
Published: June 2020

The management of adults with complex congenital heart disease requires a multidisciplinary team (Heart Team).
Emphysematous aortic arch aneurysm infected with Salmonella: A case report
Authors: Akishima Shinji
Published: June 2020

Infected aortic aneurysm is a relatively rare disease that is extremely difficult to manage, resulting in a poor prognosis. We rescued a patient with Salmonella‐infected aortic arch aneurysm surrounded with a specific and massive emphysema, despite experiencing aortic rupture, including delayed esophageal perforation after surgery.
A Bednar tumor in a healthy woman
Authors: Yamada Takayuki , Ohwada Susumu
Published: June 2020

A Bednar tumor (BT) is a soft tissue sarcoma that mimics neurofibroma and rarely occurs in the deeper layers of the skin. Local recurrence of BT is possible with incomplete resection, but the occurrence of distant metastasis is rare.
Indium Phosphide Quantum Dots Integrated with Cadmium Sulfide Nanorods for Photocatalytic Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Do Khai H. , Kumar D. Praveen , Rangappa A. Putta , Hong Yul , Reddy D. Amaranatha , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: June 2020

Photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into storable fuels is an attractive way to simultaneously address worldwide energy demands and environmental problems. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) have gained prominence as candidates for photocatalytic applications due to their many advantages, which include tunability for advanced electronic, optical, and surface properties. Indium phosphide (InP) quantum dots are semiconducting QDs with enormous potential for solar‐driven CO2 reduction. Their advantages include a tunable bandgap, diverse surface chemistry, and nontoxicity. InP QDs and CdS nanorods were integrated using a simple and inexpensive method. CO2 photoreduction by the CdS‐InP composites was evaluated in aqueous solution using triethanolamine as a sacrificial donor. The crystal structures, surface compositions, and morphologies were investigated via X‐ray diffraction analysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. The UV‐visible diffuse reflectance spectra of the CdS‐InP composites indicated efficient visible light utilization in the 500–550 nm range. The results of photoelectrochemical and photoluminescence analyses illustrated effective charge separation in the composites. The photocatalytic activity of the as‐synthesized composites was superior to that of pure CdS. The CO evolution rate of the optimized composite was 216 μmol h−1 g−1 during the first three hours of irradiation and increased steadily over the next 62 hours. We also studied the influences of different solvents, the hole scavenger concentration, and catalyst loading on the performance of the optimized composite.
Isothiourea‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Pyrrole‐ and Indole‐Functionalized Tetrasubstituted Pyridines
Authors: Zhang Shuyue , Hartley Will C. , Greenhalgh Mark D. , Ng Sean , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Smith Andrew D.
Published: June 2020

The generation of pyrrole‐ and indole‐functionalized tetrasubstituted pyridines in a one‐pot process from 2‐(pyrrol‐1‐yl)acetic acid or 2‐(indol‐1‐yl)acetic acid and α,β‐unsaturated N‐sulfonyl‐ketimines is described. The process is proposed to operate via an isothiourea‐catalyzed Michael addition‐lactamization, followed by elimination of sulfinic acid and O‐acylation to provide the final pyridine product.
What antagonistic interactions mean for Enlist and Roundup Ready Xtend technologies
Authors: Meyer Chris J. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Kruger Greg R.
Published: June 2020

The commercialization of Roundup Ready Xtend and Enlist cropping systems increased the number of herbicide products available for postemergence application in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). A greater understanding of how glyphosate, glufosinate, dicamba, and 2,4‐D interact in mixture is needed. Two field experiments were conducted in 2015 and 2016 at the Northeast Research and Extension Center in Keiser, AR, to evaluate herbicide interactions that could occur in Enlist and Roundup Ready Xtend cropping systems. Various rates and combinations of glufosinate, glyphosate, dicamba, and 2,4‐D were applied and evaluated for percent weed control 5 wk after treatment (WAT). In the 2,4‐D experiment, glyphosate (dimethylamine salt) at 0.75 lb ae ac−1 provided 88% barnyardgrass [Echinochloa crus‐galli (L.) Beauv.] control, whereas a premixture of glyphosate at 0.75 lb ae ac−1 + 2,4‐D at 0.70 lb ae ac−1 provided 80% control 5 WAT. Similarly, in the dicamba experiment, glyphosate (potassium salt) at 0.77 lb ae ac−1 provided 86% barnyardgrass control, compared to 79% with glyphosate at 0.77 lb ae ac−1 + dicamba at 0.5 lb ae ac−1. Antagonism was also identified for mixtures of glufosinate + glyphosate for barnyardgrass in both experiments. For Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri, S. Wats) and prickly sida [Sida spinosa (L.)] control, mixtures were generally equal to or greater than the individual herbicides alone, even though some mixtures were deemed antagonistic. Herbicide applicators in Roundup Ready Xtend or Enlist systems should be aware of antagonistic interactions and the implications of antagonism on herbicide resistance management.
Aminoglycoside Conjugation for RNA Targeting: Antimicrobials and Beyond
Authors: Aradi Klara , Di Giorgio Audrey , Duca Maria
Published: June 2020

Natural aminoglycosides are therapeutically useful antibiotics and very efficient RNA ligands. They are oligosaccharides that contain several ammonium groups able to interfere with the translation process in prokaryotes upon binding to bacterial ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and thus, impairing protein synthesis. Even if aminoglycosides are commonly used in therapy, these RNA binders lack selectivity and are able to bind to a wide number of RNA sequences/structures. This is one of the reasons for their toxicity and limited applications in therapy. At the same time, the ability of aminoglycosides to bind to various RNAs renders them a great source of inspiration for the synthesis of new binders with improved affinity and specificity toward several therapeutically relevant RNA targets. Thus, a number of studies have been performed on these complex and highly functionalized compounds, leading to the development of various synthetic methodologies toward the synthesis of conjugated aminoglycosides. The aim of this review is to highlight recent progress in the field of aminoglycoside conjugation, paying particular attention to modifications performed toward the improvement of affinity and especially to the selectivity of the resulting compounds. This will help readers to understand how to introduce a desired chemical modification for future developments of RNA ligands as antibiotics, antiviral, and anticancer compounds.
Mental health among nonelderly adult cancer survivors: A national estimate
Authors: Ji Xu , Cummings Janet R. , Gilleland Marchak Jordan , Han Xuesong , Mertens Ann C.
Published: June 2020

Background

This study assessed mental health (MH) outcomes across age groups in a nationally representative US sample of adult cancer survivors.

Methods

The 2015 to 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health was used to identify respondents aged 18 to 64 years. The authors compared MH outcomes between respondents with a cancer history and respondents without a cancer history in adjusted analyses controlling for demographics and socioeconomic status. Outcomes included past‐year major depressive episodes, serious psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, suicidal plans, suicidal attempts, any mental illness, and serious mental illness. All analyses were stratified by age group (18‐34, 35‐49, or 50‐64 years).

Results

In a comparison of 2656 survivors and 112,952 individuals without cancer, within each age group, survivors had an elevated prevalence of MH problems in 5 of the 7 outcome measures. Among young adults (aged 18‐34 years), survivors were more likely than noncancer counterparts to experience major depressive episodes (18.1% vs 9.6%), serious psychological distress (34.2% vs 17.9%), suicidal thoughts (10.5% vs 7.0%), any mental illness (41.1% vs 23.3%), and serious mental illness (13.2% vs 5.9%) in the past year (P values <.05). These differences persisted in adjusted analyses (P values <.01). Similar survivor‐comparison differences were observed among older groups but with a smaller magnitude. Among survivors, young adult survivors had the highest likelihood of experiencing MH problems across all outcomes (P values <.05).

Conclusions

This population‐based study shows an elevated prevalence of MH problems among adult cancer survivors in comparison with the general population. This finding highlights the importance of developing strategies to ensure the early detection of mental illness and to improve access to MH treatment for cancer survivors.
DUI program combines treatment, testing, and sanctions to reduce repeat offender arrests
Authors: Knopf Alison , Enos Gary
Published: June 2020

By age 15, almost one‐third of teens have had at least one drink; by age 18, this goes up to 58%. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that, on average, alcohol is a factor in the deaths of 4,358 young people under age 21 each year, including 1,580 deaths from motor vehicle crashes. These deaths are just the tip of the iceberg relating to young people drinking and driving. What helps?
Association between the yield and the main agronomic traits of Tartary buckwheat evaluated using the random forest model
Authors: Feng Shan , Li Jing , Qian Guoqi , Feng Baili
Published: June 2020

The popularity of Tartary buckwheat [Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn], as a medicinal and food crop, has been increasing in recent years. However, its low yield seriously restricts its industrial development. Amongst the various studies conducted to enhance the productivity of Tartary buckwheat, the association between yield and main agronomic traits has formed the foundation for the breeding and cultivation of high‐yielding varieties, becoming the primary interest of breeders. The commonly used methods are often restricted by sample size, distribution assumptions and trait properties and confined to the linear relationship. In this paper, the random forest regression model was used to obtain a comprehensive and reliable evaluation. The phenotypic data of 200 Tartary buckwheat landraces with 15 quantitative and two qualitative agronomic traits for two consecutive years were used. Results were compared between planting seasons and with those from classical methods, such as the correlation analyses and the multiple linear regression model. The random forest model distinguished the number of grains per plant, plant height, and 1,000‐grain weight as the most influential agronomic traits in both seasons. The main and interactive effects were explored using the accumulated local effects plot and showed great conformity between the two seasons. The robustness and reliability of the random forest model make it a desirable methodology for breeding new varieties and germplasm innovation of Tartary buckwheat and other crops.
Effects of the soil microbiome on the demography of two annual prairie plants
Authors: Reynolds Hannah S. , Wagner Rebekah , Wang Guangzhou , Burrill Haley M. , Bever James D. , Alexander Helen M.
Published: June 2020

Both mutualistic and pathogenic soil microbes are known to play important roles in shaping the fitness of plants, likely affecting plants at different life cycle stages.

In order to investigate the differential effects of native soil mutualists and pathogens on plant fitness, we compared survival and reproduction of two annual tallgrass prairie plant species (Chamaecrista fasciculataandCoreopsis tinctoria) in a field study using 3 soil inocula treatments containing different compositions of microbes. The soil inocula types included fresh native whole soil taken from a remnant prairie containing both native mutualists and pathogens, soil enhanced with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi derived from remnant prairies, and uninoculated controls.

For both species, plants inoculated with native prairie AM fungi performed much better than those in uninoculated soil for all parts of the life cycle. Plants in the native whole prairie soil were either generally similar to plants in the uninoculated soil or had slightly higher survival or reproduction.

Overall, these results suggest that native prairie AM fungi can have important positive effects on the fitness of early successional plants. As inclusion of prairie AM fungi and pathogens decreased plant fitness relative to prairie AM fungi alone, we expect that native pathogens also can have large effects on fitness of these annuals. Our findings support the use of AM fungi to enhance plant establishment in prairie restorations.
Gray wolf habitat use in response to visitor activity along roadways in Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Anton Colby B. , Smith Douglas W. , Suraci Justin P. , Stahler Daniel R. , Duane Timothy P. , Wilmers Christopher C.
Published: June 2020

Understanding the behavioral responses of large carnivores to human activity in protected areas is important for conserving top predators. Roads and associated vehicle traffic have a range of impacts on wildlife, including mortality from vehicle collisions and behavioral changes from increasing traffic levels. Roads concentrate human activities and may be particularly impactful when located adjacent to high‐quality habitat for wildlife. However, people often overlook road impacts in protected areas because of relatively low road densities. From 1979 to 2017, annual visits to Yellowstone National Park increased from 1.9 to 4.1 million, with many visitors in the last 25 yr focusing on the opportunity to view wild wolves (Canis lupus) in their natural habitat from the roadway. To better understand how human activity interacts with landscape attributes and prey availability to shape wolf habitat use, we developed seasonal and diel‐specific step selection functions (SSF) for wolves. Wolves responded to increased human activity by using areas farther from roadways during the day and during peak visitation in summer. Prey availability, as estimated by an elk SSF, did not significantly alter habitat selection patterns by wolves. The strength of habitat selection in relation to roads varied among wolf packs. The most heavily viewed wolf packs exhibited less road avoidance, suggesting increased tolerance, which could lead to increased vulnerability to human harvest if they leave the park. Federal and state managers have implemented several measures to mitigate disturbance effects to wolves and curtail habituation. These results may inform adaptive management strategies that seek to continue to conserve natural wolf behavior.
Concurrent diabetic ketoacidosis with hyperosmolality and/or severe hyperglycemia in youth with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Schmitt Jessica , Rahman AKM. Fazlur , Ashraf Ambika
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) complicated by severe hyperglycaemia and hyperosmolality and its outcomes in youth with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are not well‐described. Our aim is to determine the frequency and clinical outcomes of isolated DKA, DKA with severe hyperglycaemia (DKA + SHG) and DKA with hyperglycaemia and hyperosmolality (DKA + HH) in youth with T2DM admitted for acute hyperglycaemic crisis.

Methods

Through retrospective medical record review, patients with T2DM were identified and categorized into isolated DKA, DKA + SHG (DKA + glucose ≥33.3 mmol/L) and DKA + HH (DKA + glucose ≥33.3 mmol/L + osmolality ≥320 mmol/kg).

Results

Forty‐eight admissions in 43 patients ages 9‐18 were included: 28 (58%) had isolated DKA, six (13%) had DKA + SHG and 14 (29%) had DKA + HH. Subgroups’ demographics and medical history were similar. Seventeen patients (35%) had acute kidney injury (AKI). Odds of AKI were higher in DKA + SHG and DKA + HH relative to isolated DKA (P = .015 and .002 respectively). Frequency of altered mental status (AMS) was similar among groups. Three patients (6%) had concurrent soft‐tissue infections at presentation with no differences among subgroup. Three patients (6%) had other medical complications. These occurred only in patients with AKI and DKA + SHG or AKI and DKA + HH.

Conclusions

In youth with T2DM, severe hyperglycaemia ± hyperosmolality frequently complicates DKA. Youth with DKA and features of hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar syndrome, including isolated severe hyperglycaemia, have increased odds of AKI.
Evaluation of the Transferability of the “Flexible Steric Bulk” Concept from N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes to Planar‐Chiral Phosphinoferrocenes and their Electronic Modification
Authors: Korb Marcus , Schaarschmidt Dieter , Grumbt Martin , König Matthias , Lang Heinrich
Published: June 2020

The concept of “flexible steric bulk” is discussed at 2‐phenylvinyl‐1‐phosphinoferrocenes. The introduction of freely rotatable 1'‐silyl groups increases the catalytic productivity within the synthesis of tri‐ortho‐substituted biaryls by Suzuki–Miyaura C,C cross‐coupling reactions, giving higher yields with 1/4 of catalyst concentration than for the non‐silylated derivatives. Electronic modification of the P and the vinyl donor functionalities was investigated by introducing substituents in the para positions of both groups. Therein, electron‐withdrawing phosphines increased the yield from 78 to 91 % for a given biaryl, by changing from a diphenylphosphino to the P(p‐CN‐C6H4)2 unit. Opposite results, obtained from electron‐donating and sterically demanding phosphines, were in accordance with the 1J(31P,77Se) values. However, the electron density of the ferrocenyl backbone, expressed by the redox potential of the first ferrocenyl‐related redox process, cannot be correlated with the donor‐properties at the P atom. Changing from a PPh2‐substituted ferrocene to a (RA)‐1,1'‐binaphthyl‐containing phosphonite, a complex interaction between the axial‐ and the planar‐chiral motifs occurs, resulting a change of the absolute biaryl configuration.
Neutral Chalcogenide Tungsten Cluster with Tris(2‐Cyanoethyl)phosphine
Authors: Gassan Alena D. , Ivanov Anton A. , Eltsov Ilia V. , Kuratieva Natalia V. , Shestopalov Michael A.
Published: June 2020

Despite the great prospects for the use of octahedral metal cluster complexes in various fields, chalcogenide tungsten compounds with functional organic ligands have practically not been studied. In this work, we present the synthesis and detailed characterization of a tungsten cluster with tris(2‐cyanoethyl)phosphine [{W6S8}(P(C2H4CN)3)6]. The compound has been obtained directly from (Bu4N)2[{W6Cl8}Cl6] in one step with a good yield. The crystal structure, determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis, as well as multinuclear NMR analysis have well confirmed the formation of the chalcogenide neutral cluster. Moreover, the electrochemical properties of the complex have been studied.
Implement success strategies for supervising staff members working remotely
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2020

As more staff members find themselves having to adapt to working from home, supervisors also need to adjust by tweaking their strategies for keeping staff connected, motivated, and productive, while also promoting everyone's overall well‐being.