bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacteria‐Derived Nanoparticles: Multifunctional Containers for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Liu Lin , Wu Jiahe , Gao Jianqing , Lu Xiaoyang
Published: September 2020

In recent decades, investigations on bacteria‐derived materials have progressed from being a proof of concept to a means for improving traditional biomaterials. Owing to their unique characteristics, such as gene manipulation, rapid proliferation, and specific targeting, bacteria‐derived materials have provided remarkable flexibility in applied biomedical functionalization. In this review, bacteria‐derived nanoparticles are focused on as a promising biomaterial, introducing several bacterial species with great potential and useful strategies for fabrication. Through well‐designed choices, bacteria‐derived nanoparticles can be exploited to obtain functional bacteria‐mimicking materials for a variety of applications, including cargo delivery, imaging, therapy, and immune modulation. Finally, the prospects and challenges of bacteria‐derived nanoparticles are discussed. Particularly, safety concerns regarding the use of bacteria and their immunogenicity remain major obstacles to the clinical application of bacteria‐derived nanoparticles and these concerns are immediate priorities for the research community.
Understanding Plant Biomass via Computational Modeling
Authors: Zhou Shengfei , Jin Kai , Buehler Markus J.
Published: September 2020

Plant biomass, especially wood, has been used for structural materials since ancient times. It is also showing great potential for new structural materials and it is the major feedstock for the emerging biorefineries for building a sustainable society. The plant cell wall is a hierarchical matrix of mainly cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Herein, the structure, properties, and reactions of cellulose, lignin, and wood cell walls, studied using density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD), which are the widely used computational modeling approaches, are reviewed. Computational modeling, which has played a crucial role in understanding the structure and properties of plant biomass and its nanomaterials, may serve a leading role on developing new hierarchical materials from biomass in the future.
500 Wh kg−1 Class Li Metal Battery Enabled by a Self‐Organized Core–Shell Composite Anode
Authors: Han Bing , Xu Dongwei , Chi Shang‐Sen , He Dongsheng , Zhang Zhen , Du Leilei , Gu Meng , Wang Chaoyang , Meng Hong , Xu Kang , Zheng Zijian , Deng Yonghong
Published: September 2020

Lithium (Li) metal offers the highest projected energy density as a battery anode, however its extremely high reactivity induces dendrite growth and dead Li formation during repeated charge/discharge processes, resulting in both poor reversibility and catastrophic failure. Approaches reported to date often seek to suppress dendrites formation at the expense of energy density. Here, a strategy that resolves the above conflict and achieves a dendrite‐free and long‐term reversible Li metal anode is reported. A self‐organized core–shell composite anode, comprising an outer sheath of lithiated liquid metal (LixLMy) and an inner layer of Li metal, is developed, which posesses high electrical and ionic conductivity, and physically separates Li from the electrolyte. The introduction of LixLMy not only prevents dendrite formation, but also eliminates the use of copper as an inert substrate. Full cells made of such composite anodes and commercially available LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622) cathodes deliver ultrahigh energy density of 1500 Wh L−1 and 483 Wh kg−1. The high capacity can be maintained for more than 500 cycles, with fading rate of less than 0.05% per cycle. Pairing with LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) further raises the energy density to 1732 Wh L−1 and 514 Wh kg−1.
Disorder‐Induced Quantum Griffiths Singularity Revealed in an Artificial 2D Superconducting System
Authors: Han Xiaowen , Wu Yufeng , Xiao Hong , Zhang Miao , Gao Min , Liu Yi , Wang Jian , Hu Tao , Xie Xiaoming , Di Zengfeng
Published: September 2020

Disorder‐induced Griffiths singularity of quantum phase transition (QPT) is a crucial issue in 2D superconductors (2DSC). In a superconducting system, the strength of disorder is found to be associated with the vortex pinning energy, which is closely related to the quantum Griffiths singularity; however, a direct study to elucidate the role of vortex pinning energy on the quantum Griffiths singularity in 2DSC remains to be undertaken. Here, an artificial 2DSC system is designed by randomly depositing superconducting nanoislands on 2Delectron gas (2DEG). Quantum Griffiths singularity is present in a graphene/Pb‐islands‐array hybrid, where the superconducting behavior transits to weakly localized metallic behavior induced by the vertical magnetic field and exhibits critical behavior with a diverging dynamical critical exponent approaching zero temperature. Compared to the study of graphene/Sn‐islands‐array hybrid where the sharp QPT is observed, the vortex pinning energy acquired from the Arrhenius plot analysis is greater in graphene/Pb‐islands‐array hybrid, which may contribute to the presence of the quantum Griffiths singularity. This work may provide a comprehensive interpretation of the QPT in 2DSC.
Herbarium‐based measurements reliably estimate three functional traits
Authors: Perez Timothy M. , Rodriguez Jessica , Mason Heberling J.
Published: September 2020

Premise

The use of functional traits has surged in recent decades, providing new insights ranging from individual plant fitness to ecosystem processes. Global plant trait databases have advanced our understanding of plant functional diversity, but they remain incomplete because of geographic and taxonomic biases. Herbarium specimens may help fill these gaps by providing trait information across space and time. We tested whether herbarium specimen‐derived measurements are reliable estimates of three important, commonly measured functional traits—specific leaf area (SLA), branch wood specific gravity, and leaf thickness.

Methods

Leaves and branches were collected from species cultivated at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and Florida International University in Miami, FL, USA. Fresh components of SLA (area), branch wood specific gravity (volume), and leaf thickness were measured following standard trait measurement protocols. We compared these trait values to corresponding measurements using plant tissues dried in a plant press following standard herbarium plant collecting protocols.

Results

Herbarium‐derived trait measurements (dried tissues) were highly correlated with those measured using fresh tissues following standard protocols (SLA: R2 = 0.72–0.97, p < 0.01; wood specific gravity: R2 = 0.74–0.75, p < 0.01; leaf thickness: R2 = 0.96, p < 0.01). However, except for leaf thickness, linear model slope or intercept coefficients differed from 1, indicating herbarium‐derived trait measurements may provide biased estimates of fresh traits without the use of correction factors.

Conclusions

Herbarium‐derived traits cannot always be used interchangeably with those measured from fresh tissues because of tissue shrinkage. However, herbarium‐derived trait data still have the potential to drastically expand the temporal, geographic, and taxonomic scope of global trait databases.
Cell‐type‐specific insights into iron regulatory processes
Authors: Mleczko‐Sanecka Katarzyna , Silvestri Laura
Published: September 2020

Despite its essential role in many biological processes, iron is toxic when in excess due to its propensity to generate reactive oxygen species. To prevent diseases associated with iron deficiency or iron loading, iron homeostasis must be tightly controlled. Intracellular iron content is regulated by the Iron Regulatory Element‐Iron Regulatory Protein (IRE‐IRP) system, whereas systemic iron availability is adjusted to body iron needs chiefly by the hepcidin‐ferroportin (FPN) axis. Here, we aimed to review advances in the field that shed light on cell‐type‐specific regulatory mechanisms that control or modify systemic and local iron balance, and how shifts in cellular iron levels may affect specialized cell functions.
Oral, dental, and craniofacial features in chronic acid sphingomyelinase deficiency
Authors: Bender Cláubia V. , da Silveira Heraldo L. D. , dos Santos Natália S. , Cavagni Juliano , Rados Pantelis V. , John Angela B. , De Souza Carolina F. M. , Giugliani Roberto , Visioli Fernanda
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral, dental, and craniofacial features of individuals affected by the chronic forms of acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD). This study comprised a sample of adult and pediatric patients (n = 8) with chronic ASMD. The individuals underwent oral examinations to evaluate the occurrence of caries, as well as full‐mouth periodontal examinations, to assess the occurrence and severity of periodontal diseases. Panoramic and profile radiographs were obtained to analyze dental conditions and craniofacial parameters. Participants also answered questionnaires to identify systemic impairment, parafunctional habits, and bruxism. Dental anomalies of size, shape, and number were found, with agenesis and microdontia being the predominant findings. The average of caries experience was 11.75 (±8.1). Only one patient had periodontal health and all adult individuals had periodontitis at different stages and degrees. Bruxism was found in 87.5% of the sample. The convex profile and maxillary and mandibular retrusion were the most relevant findings in the cephalometric analysis. It is concluded that individuals with chronic ASMD, in addition to several systemic manifestations, present significant modifications in their oral health, from a greater occurrence of dental anomalies, caries, periodontal disease, in addition to skeletal changes.
Orientational Order Parameters for Arbitrary Quantum Systems
Authors: te Vrugt Michael , Wittkowski Raphael
Published: September 2020

The concept of quantum‐mechanical nematic order, which is important in systems such as superconductors, is based on an analogy to classical liquid crystals, where order parameters are obtained through orientational expansions. This method is generalized to quantum mechanics based on an expansion of Wigner functions. This provides a unified framework applicable to arbitrary quantum systems. The formalism recovers the standard definitions for spin systems. For Fermi liquids, the formalism reveals the nonequivalence of various definitions of the order parameter used in the literature. Moreover, new order parameters for quantum molecular systems with low symmetry are derived, which cannot be properly described with the usual nematic tensors.
Interfacial interactions and properties of cellular structured polyurethane nanocomposite based on carbonaceous nano‐fillers
Authors: Mandal Subhash , Roy Debmalya , Prasad Namburi Eswara , Joshi Mangala
Published: September 2020

In this article, we have studied the effect of carbonaceous nanofillers viz. fullerenol (0D), carboxylated multi‐wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT, 1D), hydroxylated graphene (2D) and combination of carboxylated CNT and hydroxylated graphene as 3D in thermoplastic polyurethane on the tensile properties of the fabricated cellular structures. The concentration of nano‐fillers was varied as 0.1, 1, and 5 wt%. Tensile properties of the nanocomposite cellular structures were measured as per ASTM D882 at 20°C (below glass transition temperature, Tg) and 40°C (above Tg). The results have shown that the tensile strength was found to increase by 200%–300% and the tensile modulus was found to increase by 150%–300% for 2D and 3D nano‐fillers while significantly poor results were observed for 0D. However, the test data tensile strength and modulus showed marginal increase at 20°C and marginally low at 40°C for 1D filler. The interfacial adhesion was calculated by using experimental tensile data and the predictive models. The interfacial adhesion parameter (Bσ) calculated using Pukanszky equation was found significantly higher value for 2D (Bσ20 = 195.8) and 3D (Bσ20 = 192.0) fillers while poor adhesion was observed for 0D (Bσ20 = −81.6) fillers. The developed cellular structured materials were also evaluated by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform IR spectra, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope.
Manipulation of thick‐walled PEEK bushing crystallinity and modulus via instrumented compression molding
Authors: Al‐Mezrakchi Ruaa , Creasy Terry , Sue Hung‐Jue , Bremner Tim
Published: September 2020

An instrumented hot compression molding apparatus was fabricated to allow real‐time monitoring and precise temperature control during the compaction and consolidation of large polyether ether ketone (PEEK) products. The objective was to determine the impact of controlled variables on the properties of the molded article. Four different strategies were designed to control the mold thermal profiles. The average crystallinity in a commercial molding process is restricted due to large thermal masses with low thermal conductivity. In contrast, this research was able to reduce the crystallinity range from 33% to 6% by developing a special controlled apparatus and implementing new processing methodologies. In this study, PEEK showed a significant increase in the modulus compared to typical values measured on commercially produced analogs, and a higher degree of property uniformity. In a single commercially molded PEEK billet, compressive modulus variability was 13% at room temperature, and 21% at 225°C. Properties of billets produced using the laboratory apparatus showed a reduction in variability to 2%.
Demonstrating the practical impact of studies on biotic interactions and adaptation of a threatened unionoid mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) to its host fish (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Österling Martin , Larsen Bjørn Mejdell , Arvidsson Björn
Published: September 2020

To understand the ecological factors behind the decline of functionally important threatened species with complex life cycles, many different life‐cycle stages need to be investigated. The highly threatened unionoid freshwater mussels, with their complex life cycle, including a parasitic stage on host fish, often have a large influence on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

The overall aim of the present article is to summarize and discuss the impact of two articles published in Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems (AQC) on biotic interactions and adaptation of a threatened unionoid mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) to its host fish (Salmo trutta).

The two AQC publications described research on the influence of population size and density of mussels and host fish, and host–parasite interactions between mussels and their host fish, on the recruitment of juvenile mussels.

The results from these publications filled gaps in knowledge and resulted in recommendations and incentives for conservation. The results and method development have been used in practical conservation work with threatened mussel species and have been implemented and cited in management handbooks. The outcome of the publications has been implemented in large conservation and restoration projects, and in several recent scientific publications.

Specifically, the results from one publication showed that ecological parameters such as mussel and host fish density and population size influenced recruitment of the threatened freshwater pearl mussel. The results from the second publication showed that understanding host–parasite interactions is important for comparing the suitability of host fish strains, and that host fish strains differ in their suitability for mussel infestations. In combination, the articles show that integrating ecological parameters of threatened mussels and their host fish with host–parasite interaction experiments can be an important influence on conservation recommendations, adaptive management and national management programmes for threatened species.
A novel prognostic model for Japanese patients with newly diagnosed bone‐metastatic hormone‐naïve prostate cancer
Authors: Miyoshi Yasuhide , Yasui Masato , Yoneyama Shuko , Kawahara Takashi , Nakagami Yoshihiro , Ohno Yoshimasa , Iizuka Junpei , Tanabe Kazunari , Hashimoto Yasunobu , Tsumura Hideyasu , Tabata Ken‐ichi , Iwamura Masatsugu , Yano Akihiro , Kawakami Satoru , Uemura Hiroji
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the prognosis of newly diagnosed patients with metastatic hormone‐naïve prostate cancer (mHNPC) and develop a novel prognostic model based on ChemoHormonal Therapy Versus Androgen Ablation Randomized Trial for Extensive Disease in Prostate Cancer (CHAARTED) risk classifications.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 578 newly diagnosed mHNPC patients initially treated with androgen deprivation therapy. We evaluated three clinical factors, namely, CHAARTED risk classifications (high‐volume disease [HVD] vs low‐volume disease [LVD]), Gleason scores (GS, 9‐10 vs ≤8), and hemoglobin (Hb, ≤13.0 g/dL vs >13.0 g/dL), for their prognostic potential in predicting time to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (TTC) and overall survival (OS) of mHNPC patients by multivariate analysis. Moreover, we developed a novel prognostic model that consisted of significant prognostic factors.

Results

Of the entire cohort, the median TTC and OS values were 18.3 and 67.5 months, respectively. HVD, GS 9‐10, and Hb ≤13.0 g/dL were independent poor prognostic factors for both TTC and OS. We developed a novel prognostic model which could stratify mHNPC patients into four risk groups according to the numbers of poor prognostic factors: group 1, LVD with low‐risk (LVD patients without GS 9‐10 and Hb ≤13.0 g/dL); group 2, LVD with high‐risk (LVD patients with GS 9‐10, Hb ≤13.0 g/dL, or both); group 3, HVD with low‐risk (HVD patients without GS 9‐10 with or without Hb ≤13.0 g/dL); and group 4, HVD with high‐risk (HVD patients with GS 9‐10 with or without Hb ≤13.0 g/dL). The median TTC and OS of groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 124.8, 36.4, 17.9, and 11.2 months, and 117.2, 94.2, 67.9, and 46.2 months, respectively. A significant difference in TCC and OS was found between all groups.

Conclusion

We developed a prognostic model for mHNPC patients that consisted of CHAARTED risk classifications, GS, and Hb. Our prognostic model could significantly stratify the prognosis of patients with LVD and HVD into two groups each. This model might be a good reference for shared decision making between patients and physicians on the initial treatment for mHNPC.
Microscale Perfusion‐Based Cultivation for Pichia pastoris Clone Screening Enables Accelerated and Optimized Recombinant Protein Production Processes
Authors: Totaro Damiano , Radoman Bojana , Schmelzer Bernhard , Rothbauer Mario , Steiger Matthias G. , Mayr Torsten , Sauer Michael , Ertl Peter , Mattanovich Diethard
Published: September 2020

Pichia pastoris has emerged in the past years as a promising host for recombinant protein and biopharmaceutical production. In the establishment of high cell density fed‐batch biomanufacturing, screening phase and early bioprocess development (based on microplates and shake flasks) still represent a bottleneck due to high‐cost and time‐consuming procedures as well as low experiment complexity. In the present work, a screening protocol developed for P. pastoris clone selection is implemented in a multiplexed microfluidic device with 15 μL cultivation chambers able to operate in perfusion mode and monitor dissolved oxygen content in the culture in a non‐invasive way. The setup allowed us to establish carbon‐limited conditions and evaluate strain responses to different input variables. Results from micro‐scale perfusion cultures are then compared with 1L fed‐batch fermentation. The best producer in terms of titer and productivity is rapidly identified after 12 h from inoculation and the results confirmed by lab‐scale fermentation. Moreover, the physiological analyses of the strains under different conditions suggested how more complex experimental conditions are achievable despite the relatively easy, straight‐forward, and cost‐effective experimental setup. Implementation and standardization of these micro‐scale protocols could reduce the demand for lab‐scale bioreactor cultivations thus accelerating the development of protein production processes.
Downregulation of T7 RNA polymerase transcription enhances pET‐based recombinant protein production in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) by suppressing autolysis
Authors: Sun Xiao‐Man , Zhang Zi‐Xu , Wang Ling‐Ru , Wang Jing‐Gang , Liang Yan , Yang Hai‐Feng , Tao Rong‐Sheng , Jiang Yu , Yang Jun‐Jie , Yang Sheng
Published: September 2020

Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) is an excellent and widely used host for recombinant protein production. Many variant hosts were developed from BL21 (DE3), but improving the expression of specific proteins remains a major challenge in biotechnology. In this study, we found that when BL21 (DE3) overexpressed glucose dehydrogenase (GDH), a significant industrial enzyme, severe cell autolysis was induced. Subsequently, we observed this phenomenon in the expression of 10 other recombinant proteins. This precludes a further increase of the produced enzyme activity by extending the fermentation time, which is not conducive to the reduction of industrial enzyme production costs. Analysis of membrane structure and messenger RNA expression analysis showed that cells could underwent a form of programmed cell death (PCD) during the autolysis period. However, blocking three known PCD pathways in BL21 (DE3) did not completely alleviate autolysis completely. Consequently, we attempted to develop a strong expression host resistant to autolysis by controlling the speed of recombinant protein expression. To find a more suitable protein expression rate, the high‐ and low‐strength promoter lacUV5 and lac were shuffled and recombined to yield the promoter variants lacUV5‐1A and lac‐1G. The results showed that only one base in lac promoter needs to be changed, and the A at the +1 position was changed to a G, resulting in the improved host BL21 (DE3‐lac1G), which resistant to autolysis. As a consequence, the GDH activity at 43 h was greatly increased from 37.5 to 452.0 U/ml. In scale‐up fermentation, the new host was able to produce the model enzyme with a high rate of 89.55 U/ml/h at 43 h, compared to only 3 U/ml/h achieved using BL21 (DE3). Importantly, BL21 (DE3‐lac1G) also successfully improved the production of 10 other enzymes. The engineered E. coli strain constructed in this study conveniently optimizes recombinant protein overexpression by suppressing cell autolysis, and shows great potential for industrial applications.
Displacement to separate host‐cell proteins and aggregates in cation‐exchange chromatography of monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Khanal Ohnmar , Kumar Vijesh , Lenhoff Abraham M.
Published: September 2020

An efficient and consistent method of monoclonal antibody (mAb) purification can improve process productivity and product consistency. Although protein A chromatography removes most host‐cell proteins (HCPs), mAb aggregates and the remaining HCPs are challenging to remove in a typical bind‐and‐elute cation‐exchange chromatography (CEX) polishing step. A variant of the bind‐and‐elute mode is the displacement mode, which allows strongly binding impurities to be preferentially retained and significantly improves resin utilization. Improved resin utilization renders displacement chromatography particularly suitable in continuous chromatography operations. In this study we demonstrate and exploit sample displacement between a mAb and impurities present at low prevalence (0.002%–1.4%) using different multicolumn designs and recycling. Aggregate displacement depends on the residence time, sample concentration, and solution environment, the latter by enhancing the differences between the binding affinities of the product and the impurities. Displacement among the mAb and low‐prevalence HCPs resulted in an effectively bimodal‐like distribution of HCPs along the length of a multi‐column system, with the mAb separating the relatively more basic group of HCPs from those that are more acidic. Our findings demonstrate that displacement of low‐prevalence impurities along multiple CEX columns allows for selective separation of mAb aggregates and HCPs that persist through protein A chromatography.
Percutaneous large‐bore axillary access is a safe alternative to surgical approach: A systematic review
Authors: Southmayd Geoffrey , Hoque Azizul , Kaki Amir , Tayal Rajiv , Rab S. Tanveer
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To systematically review relevant literature regarding cardiovascular outcomes of large‐bore axillary arterial access via percutaneous and surgical approaches.

Background

In patients with severe peripheral arterial disease (PAD) undergoing cardiac interventions, large‐bore femoral access may be prohibitive. The axillary artery provides an alternative vascular access for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or mechanical circulatory support. There have been limited comparisons of percutaneous transaxillary (pTAX) approach with the more traditional surgical transaxillary (sTAX) approach.

Methods

Pubmed and Medline databases were queried through January 2019 for studies describing pTAX or sTAX approaches with TAVR or Impella insertion. Primary outcomes were access‐related mortality, 30‐day mortality, stroke, major vascular complications, and major bleeding.

Results

One hundred and fifty five studies were reviewed, with additional unpublished data from 1 institution. Twenty‐two studies met the inclusion criteria. Patient data was heterogeneous, with 69% TAVR and 31% Impella use in the pTAX group, and 96% TAVR and 4% Impella use in the sTAX group. There was more cardiogenic shock in the pTAX group. When compared to surgical approach, the percutaneous approach had similar 30‐day mortality for TAVR (5.6% vs 4.6%, OR non‐significant) and Impella (43.4% vs 38.6%, OR non‐significant), similar stroke rates (4.3% vs 4.2%, OR non‐significant), similar major vascular complications (2.8% vs 2.3%, OR non‐significant) and less major bleeding (2.7% vs 17.9%, OR significant).

Conclusions

Data suggests large‐bore pTAX access has similar 30‐day mortality, stroke rates, and major vascular complications as sTAX access, with less major bleeding. Additional studies are needed to validate results.
Three‐dimensional printing in a patient with pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm and complex congenital heart disease—A case report
Authors: Zhu Yueqian , Zhang Xun E. , Li Qingguo , Yao Hao
Published: September 2020

3D‐printing is a powerful tool in patients with complex anatomy undergoing cardiac surgery.
The endoscopic aspect of foraminal anatomy and dorsal root ganglion in percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy
Authors: Kapetanakis Stylianos , Gkantsinikoudis Nikolaos , Thomaidis Tryfon , Georgoudis Michalis
Published: September 2020

Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy (PTED) offers an exceptional visualization of foraminal anatomy. Dorsal root ganglion and adjacent foraminal structures are satisfactorily visualized, thereby minimizing the risk of their intraoperative injury.
An unusual case of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma complicating a Crohn's disease
Authors: Sabbah Meriam , Ben Farhat Fatma , Bellil Nawel , Khanchel Fatma , Ouakaa Asma , Gargouri Dalila
Published: September 2020

Clinicians should keep in mind that Crohn's disease may be complicated by neoplasia such as adenocarcinomas or lymphomas, especially if the disease duration is long and the patient is under immunosuppressive therapy.
Financial knowledge overconfidence and early withdrawals from retirement accounts
Authors: Lee Sunwoo Tessa , Hanna Sherman D.
Published: September 2020

Early distributions from retirement accounts could endanger future retirement income security, and the U.S. has restrictions to discourage them, including possible tax penalties. On the other hand, tapping one's retirement assets may be rational when an individual encounters financial hardship. With the 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, early distribution from retirement accounts became an even more attractive option to individuals. In this study, we examined factors related to individuals' decision of taking hardship withdrawals and plan loans, focusing on financial knowledge and overconfidence in financial knowledge, using the 2018 National Financial Capability Study dataset. We found evidence that people may be making early withdrawals without understanding possible consequences. Objective financial knowledge was negatively related to hardship withdrawals and plan loans, but the subjective assessment of financial knowledge was positively related to hardship withdrawals. Respondents with financial knowledge overconfidence (high subjective and low objective knowledge) were more likely to take early withdrawals than those with other combinations of objective and subjective knowledge. We discuss implications for public policy and financial education and advice.
Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Fermentation of Apple Pomace
Authors: Kaiser Doreen , Bertau Martin
Published: September 2020

Apfeltrester ist ein komplexes, kohlenhydratreiches Koppelprodukt der Herstellung von Apfelsaft und ein interessanter Rohstoff zur Produktion von Plattformchemikalien wie Ethanol und Essigsäure. Durch simultane Verzuckerung und Fermentation wurde der Trester zu 82 % abgebaut. Im Fermentationsmedium betrug die Ethanolkonzentration ∼5,7 Vol.‐%, was eine wirtschaftliche Weiterverarbeitung des Ethanols ermöglicht. Tanksediment und Begleitstoffe sind ebenfalls einer fermentativen Verwertung zugänglich, mit Essigsäure als bevorzugtem Produkt. Das N‐reiche Tanksediment kann einen Teil des benötigten Frischwassers ersetzen und macht die Zugabe von Mikronährstoffen überflüssig.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Guerrero‐Pérez M. Olga , Patience Gregory S. , Bañares Miguel A.
Published: September 2020

When photons impinge on a substrate, most scatter with the same frequency (elastic scattering or Rayleigh dispersion) and only 10−7 scatter with a different energy (inelastic scattering). This inelastic interaction (Raman scattering) exchanges energy in the region of molecular vibrational transitions for crystalline and amorphous materials. Raman bands in a spectra represent vibrational transitions, like infrared, however the selection rules are different. Typically, the vibrations that are intense in Raman are weak in infrared and vice versa. A remarkable feature of the Raman effect is that it is highly sensitive to nanocrystals, even below 4 nm, which are too small to generate XRD patterns. Plasmonic enhancement, like surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) boost the Raman signal by 104, providing single‐molecule detection capability. Glass, quartz, and sapphire are transparent to Raman effect (depending on the energy of the incident excitation radiation), which makes it ideal to examine materials under reaction conditions (in‐situ cells and operando reactors that operate over a broad range of temperature, pressures, and environments). Raman spectroscopy emerged in the 1930s; however, infrared spectrometry displaced it. With the advent of powerful lasers in the 1970s, more researchers began to apply Raman routinely. In 2019, the Web of Science indexed 20 400 articles mentioning Raman against 50 000 articles mentioning infrared. Chemical engineers apply Raman less frequently than in material science, physical chemistry, and applied physics, with 887 articles vs 6250, 3700, and 3510 for the other disciplines. A bibliometric analysis identified four research clusters centred on thin films and optics, graphene and nanocomposites, nanoparticles and SERS, and photocatalyst.
A Structure−Activity Relationship Study of Novel Hydroxamic Acid Inhibitors around the S1 Subsite of Human Aminopeptidase N
Authors: Lee Jisook , Drinkwater Nyssa , McGowan Sheena , Scammells Peter
Published: September 2020

Aminopeptidase N (APN/CD13) is a zinc‐dependent ubiquitous transmembrane ectoenzyme that is widely present in different types of cells. APN is one of the most extensively studied metalloaminopeptidases as an anti‐cancer target due to its significant role in the regulation of metastasis and angiogenesis. Previously, we identified a potent and selective APN inhibitor, N‐(2‐(Hydroxyamino)‐2‐oxo‐1‐(3′,4′,5′‐trifluoro‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)ethyl)‐4‐(methylsulfonamido)benzamide (3). Herein, we report the further modifications performed to explore SAR around the S1 subsite of APN and to improve the physicochemical properties. A series of hydroxamic acid analogues were synthesised, and the pharmacological activities were evaluated in vitro. N‐(1‐(3′‐Fluoro‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)‐2‐(hydroxyamino)‐2‐oxoethyl)‐4‐(methylsulfonamido)benzamide (6 f) was found to display an extremely potent inhibitory activity in the sub‐nanomolar range.
Expanding the Perseus Software for Omics Data Analysis With Custom Plugins
Authors: Yu Sung‐Huan , Ferretti Daniela , Schessner Julia P. , Rudolph Jan Daniel , Borner Georg H. H. , Cox Jürgen
Published: September 2020

The Perseus software provides a comprehensive framework for the statistical analysis of large‐scale quantitative proteomics data, also in combination with other omics dimensions. Rapid developments in proteomics technology and the ever‐growing diversity of biological studies increasingly require the flexibility to incorporate computational methods designed by the user. Here, we present the new functionality of Perseus to integrate self‐made plugins written in C#, R, or Python. The user‐written codes will be fully integrated into the Perseus data analysis workflow as custom activities. This also makes language‐specific R and Python libraries from CRAN (cran.r‐project.org), Bioconductor (bioconductor.org), PyPI (pypi.org), and Anaconda (anaconda.org) accessible in Perseus. The different available approaches are explained in detail in this article. To facilitate the distribution of user‐developed plugins among users, we have created a plugin repository for community sharing and filled it with the examples provided in this article and a collection of already existing and more extensive plugins. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Basic steps for R plugins

Support Protocol 1: R plugins with additional arguments

Basic Protocol 2: Basic steps for python plugins

Support Protocol 2: Python plugins with additional arguments

Basic Protocol 3: Basic steps and construction of C# plugins

Basic Protocol 4: Basic steps of construction and connection for R plugins with C# interface

Support Protocol 4: Advanced example of R Plugin with C# interface: UMAP

Basic Protocol 5: Basic steps of construction and connection for python plugins with C# interface

Support Protocol 5: Advanced example of python plugin with C# interface: UMAP

Support Protocol 6: A basic workflow for the analysis of label‐free quantification proteomics data using perseus
The Isolation of Stress Granules From Plant Material
Authors: Kosmacz Monika , Skirycz Aleksandra
Published: September 2020

Stress granules (SGs) are ubiquitous nonmembrane‐bound assemblies of protein and mRNA formed under stress conditions associated with stalled translation. SGs are evolutionarily conserved across eukaryotes. The canonical function of SGs is to selectively protect mRNAs and proteins from unfolding and prevent degradation induced by diverse environmental stresses. Moreover, sequestration into SGs provides an elegant way to regulate protein activities. Disassembly of SGs upon stress recovery is accompanied by the reactivation of protein translation and protein activities. The regulatory importance of SGs has been corroborated by recent studies describing the multiomics analysis of the composition of SGs from yeast, animal, and plant cells. Herein, we describe an isolation protocol of SGs that allows for the identification of proteins, mRNA, and metabolites sequestered into SG cores. Furthermore, the described protocols can be used to isolate other SG‐like foci. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of SG‐enriched fraction from plant material

Basic Protocol 2: Affinity purification to isolate SGs

Basic Protocol 3: Simultaneous extraction of proteins and metabolites from affinity‐purified beads

Basic Protocol 4: Protein digestion on affinity‐purified beads

Basic Protocol 5: Data analysis
Global DNA methylation predicts epigenetic reprogramming and transgenerational plasticity in Poa annua L
Authors: Benson Christopher W. , Mao Qing , Huff David R.
Published: September 2020

Poa annua L. (annual bluegrass) is a remarkably versatile grass species with biotypes ranging from perennial to annual. Despite its recent evolutionary origins, Poa annua can be found as an invasive weed on all seven continents of the globe including extremely inhospitable locations such as Mount Kilimanjaro and the Antarctic mainland. The molecular mechanisms underlying Poa annua versatility are unresolved but thought to relate to its neoallopolyploid origin and influence diverse molecular responses ranging from DNA methylation to chromosomal architecture. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) karyotyping of 5S rDNA loci added further evidence for Poa infirma Kunth. (weak bluegrass) and Poa supina Schrad. (supina bluegrass) as the progenitor species of Poa annua while results of 45S rDNA were less clear and possibly suggest that large‐scale variation in chromosomal architecture might have occur between individual Poa annua genotypes. At the methylation level, abiotic stress was observed to induce global DNA methylation, and methylation in the progeny of stressed plants remained slightly elevated, suggesting partial heritability of the methylation landscape acquired through abiotic stress on the parents. Further, the progeny of mowed clones had 37% reduced shoot area when compared with the progeny of unmowed clones across eight genotypes, suggesting that the altered phenotype is non‐Mendelian inherited. Poa annua plasticity and transgenerational inheritance is correlated with increased DNA methylation at the global level but causality needs experimental validation. These results suggest that Poa annua plastic phenotype is matched by genetic and epigenetic plasticity.
Burrow ambient temperature influences Helice crab activity and availability for migratory Red‐crowned cranes Grus japonensis
Authors: Li Donglai , Zhang Jing , Chen Lingyu , Lloyd Huw , Zhang Zhengwang
Published: September 2020

For migratory birds that specialize on particular benthic macroinvertebrate species, the timing of migration is critical since prey availability may be temporally limited and a function of local ambient temperature. Hence, variation in local ambient temperature can influence the diet composition of migrant birds, and, consequently, they may be constrained by which stopover and wintering sites they are able to utilize during periods of colder temperatures. Here, we use fecal analysis, observer‐based population counts, digital video recordings, and temperature data to test five predictions regarding the influence of local ambient temperature on the activity and availability of mudflat crabs—a key prey resource at three staging/wintering sites in eastern China, for migratory Red‐crowned cranes (Grus japonensis) and how this subsequently influences crane diet and use of wetland sites. Pearson's correlations and generalized linear models revealed that mudflat crabs became significantly more surface active with increasing burrow ambient temperature. Piecewise regression analysis revealed that crab surface activity was largely limited to a burrow ambient temperature threshold between 12 and 13℃ after which activity significantly increased. Crab activity declining temporally during the crane's autumn migration period but increased during spring migration. Crabs accounted for a significant proportion of crane diet at two of three sites; however, the frequency of crab remains was significantly different between sites, and between autumn and spring migration. Analyses of crane count data revealed a degree of congruence between the migration timing of Red‐crowned cranes with periods of warmer ambient temperature, and a significant, positive correlation between the percentage of crab remains in crane feces and site ambient temperature. Collectively, our data suggest that temperature‐related mudflat crab activity may provide an important time window for migratory Red‐crowned cranes to utilize critical stopover sites and the crabs’ food resources.
Effect of disease‐modifying agents and their association with mortality in multi‐morbid patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Straw Sam , McGinlay Melanie , Relton Samuel D. , Koshy Aaron O. , Gierula John , Paton Maria F. , Drozd Michael , Lowry Judith E , Cole Charlotte , Cubbon Richard M , Witte Klaus K. , Kearney Mark T.
Published: September 2020

Aims

An increasing proportion of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) have co‐morbidities. The effect of these co‐morbidities on modes of death and the effect of disease‐modifying agents in multi‐morbid patients is unknown.

Methods and results

We performed a prospective cohort study of ambulatory patients with HFrEF to assess predictors of outcomes. We identified four key co‐morbidities—ischaemic aetiology of heart failure, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD)—that were highly prevalent and associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality. We used these data to explore modes of death and the utilization of disease‐modifying agents in patients with and without these co‐morbidities. The cohort included 1789 consecutively recruited patients who had an average age of 69.6 ± 12.5 years, and 1307 (73%) were male. Ischaemic aetiology of heart failure was the most common co‐morbidity, occurring in 1061 (59%) patients; 503 (28%) patients had diabetes mellitus, 283 (16%) had COPD, and 140 (8%) had CKD stage IV/V. During mean follow‐up of 3.8 ± 1.6 years, 737 (41.5%) patients died, classified as progressive heart failure (n = 227, 32%), sudden (n = 112, 16%), and non‐cardiovascular deaths (n = 314, 44%). Multi‐morbid patients were older (P < 0.001), more likely to be male (P < 0.001), and had higher New York Heart Association class (P < 0.001), despite having higher left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (P = 0.001) and lower LV end‐diastolic diameter (P = 0.001). Multi‐morbid patients were prescribed lower doses of disease‐modifying agents, especially patients with COPD who received lower doses of beta‐adrenoceptor antagonists (2.7 ± 3.0 vs. 4.1 ± 3.4 mg, P < 0.001) and were less likely to be implanted with internal cardioverter defibrillators (7% vs. 13%, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, COPD and diabetes mellitus conferred a >2.5‐fold and 1.5‐fold increased risk of sudden death, whilst higher doses of beta‐adrenoceptor antagonists were protective (hazard ratio per milligram 0.92, 95% confidence interval 0.86–0.98, P = 0.009). Each milligram of bisoprolol‐equivalent beta‐adrenoceptor antagonist was associated with 9% (P = 0.001) and 11% (P = 0.023) reduction of sudden deaths in patients with <2 and ≥2 co‐morbidities, respectively.

Conclusions

Higher doses of beta‐adrenoceptor antagonist are associated with greater protection from sudden death, most evident in multi‐morbid patients. Patients with COPD who appear to be at the highest risk of sudden death are prescribed the lowest doses and less likely to be implanted with implantable cardioverter defibrillators, which might represent a missed opportunity to optimize safe and proven therapies for these patients.
Outcomes of diuretics in rheumatic heart disease with compensated chronic heart failure: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Cheng , Lai Yanxian , Guan Tianwang , Shen Yan , Pan Yichao , Wu Deping
Published: September 2020

Aims

The purpose of this retrospective propensity score‐matched study was to evaluate the superiority of different application approaches [continuous diuretics use (CDU) vs. intermittent diuretics use (IDU)] and types [loop diuretics (LDs) vs. thiazide diuretics (TDs)] of diuretics on long‐term outcomes for rheumatic heart disease (RHD) patients with compensated chronic heart failure (CHF).

Methods and results

A total of 494 RHD patients with compensated CHF were analysed after propensity score matching. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to investigate the associations of different diuretic application approaches and types with all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular death (CVD), and cerebrovascular death. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations of different diuretic application approaches and types with 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year heart failure (HF) re‐hospitalization as well as new‐onset atrial fibrillation (AF). In the comparison between IDU and CDU strategies for RHD patients with compensated CHF, CDU was associated with increased risks of all‐cause mortality [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 2.47, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.54–3.97, P < 0.001] and CVD (adjusted HR = 3.67, 95% CI: 1.95–6.89, P < 0.001) except cerebrovascular death (adjusted HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.34–3.41, P = 0.905). CDU was also associated with increased risks of 3‐year [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.09–2.96, P = 0.022] and 5‐year (adjusted OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.18–3.45, P = 0.010) HF re‐hospitalization risk and new‐onset AF (adjusted OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.31–4.20, P = 0.004) except 1‐year HF re‐hospitalization risk (adjusted OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 0.88–2.70, P = 0.130). In the comparison between TDs and LDs among study participants receiving IDU strategy, LDs were only associated with decreased 1‐year HF re‐hospitalization risk (adjusted OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12–0.77, P = 0.012) rather than all‐cause mortality, CVD, cerebrovascular death, 3‐ and 5‐year HF re‐hospitalization, and new‐onset AF (all adjusted P > 0.05). In the comparison between TDs and LDs among study participants receiving CDU strategy, LDs were not associated with cerebrovascular death and 1‐year HF re‐hospitalization (both adjusted P > 0.05) but with increased risks of all‐cause mortality (adjusted HR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.09–2.99, P = 0.023), CVD (adjusted HR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.04–3.44, P = 0.037), 3‐year (adjusted OR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.06–3.43, P = 0.031) and 5‐year (adjusted OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.12–4.19, P = 0.022) HF re‐hospitalization, and new‐onset AF (adjusted OR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.25–5.68, P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Continuous diuretics use (especially LDs) was associated with increased risks of all‐cause mortality, CVD, medium‐term/long‐term HF re‐hospitalization, and new‐onset AF in RHD patients with compensated CHF.