bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aging Effect of Catechol Redox Polymer Nanoparticles for Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Gallastegui Antonela , Camara Ousmane , Minudri Daniela , Goujon Nicolas , Patil Nagaraj , Ruipérez Fernando , Marcilla Rebeca , Mecerreyes David
Published: May 2022

Redox‐polymer nanoparticles are a promising solution to avoid the detrimental dissolution of organic electrode materials while showing discrete redox processes. In this work, catechol‐based redox‐active polymer nanoparticles (cRPNs) were synthesized through one‐step emulsion polymerization with a tunable size from 25 to 150 nm. The fresh cRPNs were characterized and showed a reversible redox process centered at 0.50 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) in 1 M H2SO4. Unexpectedly, the cRPN latex aged after days passing from white to pink. This aging resulted in a shift of its redox potential toward higher values, which could be associated to autoxidation of the catechol groups and subsequent crosslinking of NPs due to catechol dimer formation. Finally, we compared the performance of fresh and aged cRPNs in a hybrid supercapacitor device, proving how the aging effect had some benefits such as an increase in the voltage output, specific capacitance, cyclability and Coulombic efficiencies of the device.
Preference for human or algorithmic forecasting advice does not predict if and how it is used
Authors: Himmelstein Mark , Budescu David V.
Published: May 2022

Past research has found that people treat advice differently depending on its source. In many cases, people seem to prefer human advice to algorithms, but in others, there is a reversal, and people seem to prefer algorithmic advice. Across two studies, we examine the persuasiveness of, and judges' preferences for, advice from different sources when forecasting geopolitical events. We find that judges report domain‐specific preferences, preferring human advice in the domain of politics and algorithmic advice in the domain of economics. In Study 2, participants report a preference for hybrid advice, that combines human and algorithmic sources, to either one on it's own regardless of domain. More importantly, we find that these preferences did not affect persuasiveness of advice from these different sources, regardless of domain. Judges were primarily sensitive to quantitative features pertaining to the similarity between their initial beliefs and the advice they were offered, such as the distance between them and the relative advisor confidence, when deciding whether to revise their initial beliefs in light of advice, rather than the source that generated the advice.
Hepatotoxicity in young adult rat offspring after prenatal exposure to benzo(a)pyrene, and protective effect of atorvastatin
Authors: Karimpour Malekshah Abbasali , Rahmani Zahra , Zargari Mehryar , Mirzaei Mansoureh , Rezaei Talarposhti Masoumeh , Talebpour Amiri Fereshteh
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is an environmental contaminant that interrupts the antioxidant defense and thus leads to oxidative stress and DNA damage in the liver. Atorvastatin (ATV) for reducing cholesterol has antioxidant and anti‐apoptotic activities. This study investigated the effects of prenatal exposure of BaP on liver toxicity and the protective role of ATV in reducing liver toxicity.

Materials and Methods

In this study, rats were distributed randomly to seven groups: I. Saline control; II. ATV (10 mg/kg); III. Corn oil; IV and V. BaP (10 and 20 mg/kg); VI and VII. ATV + BaP (10 and 20 mg/kg). BaP and ATV were administrated from gestation day 7–16 (GD7–GD16), orally. Ten weeks after the birth, female offspring were examined for oxidative stress markers, liver enzymes, and histology.

Results

Data revealed that BaP significantly induced oxidative stress (decreased glutathione and increased malondialdehyde level), and disrupted the tissue structure of the liver. Moreover, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase increased in the offspring. ATV treatment along with BaP during gestation was able to bring the antioxidant status and serum liver enzymes levels relatively close to normal. As well as, histological findings showed that ATV was able to improve liver tissue structure caused by BaP.

Conclusion

Based on the above studies we concluded that ATV at a low dose during gestation was able to reduce liver damage caused by BaP with antioxidant properties.
Lesion‐specific mortality due to congenital heart disease in U.S. adults from 1999 to 2017
Authors: Lynn Melodie M. , Salemi Jason L. , Meath Callie J. , Dolgner Stephen J. , Morris Shaine A. , Sexson Tejtel S. Kristen , Lopez Keila N.
Published: May 2022

Background

Adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) comprise an increasing proportion of individuals living with CHD in the United States (US) although little is known regarding lesion or age‐specific mortality in the modern era. Our study aimed to describe current era ACHD mortality rates by age and CHD lesion and provide temporal mortality rate trends for the last two decades.

Methods

We conducted a 19‐year analysis (1999–2017) of publicly available, de‐identified Multiple Cause of Death data compiled and produced by the National Center for Health Statistics. Age and lesion‐specific mortality rates were calculated using joinpoint regression.

Results

ACHD mortality rates decreased by an average of 2%–4% per year for all adults. CHD lesions resulting in the highest ACHD‐related mortality varied by age. Unlike the other lesions, mortality attributed to single ventricle physiology failed to improve in early adulthood (average of 1.6% increase per year). In decedents age 65 years or older, simpler forms of CHD like shunt lesions became more prominent contributors, accounting for 46% of deaths.

Conclusion

Rates of mortality due to ACHD have declined significantly for adults with CHD, however, continued mortality due to single ventricle physiology remains an area requiring improved strategies to increase survival.
Prognosis of rapid onset functional tic‐like behaviors: Prospective follow‐up over 6 months
Authors: Howlett Megan , Martino Davide , Nilles Christelle , Pringsheim Tamara
Published: May 2022

Background and Purpose

The prognosis of rapid onset functional tic‐like behaviors (FTLBs) is unknown. This prospective cohort study describes the course and treatment of rapid onset FTLBs in adolescents (n = 20) and adults (n = 9) previously reported in two case series.

Methods

Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) scores were compared between first clinical presentation and 6‐month follow‐up assessment. All treatments used for FTLBs and any psychiatric comorbidities were recorded.

Results

In adolescents with FTLBs, motor tics, vocal tics, total tics, impairment, and global scores on the YGTSS significantly improved at 6 months, with a mean decrease in the YGTSS global score of 31.9 points, 95% confidence interval (CI) 15.4, 48.4, p = .0005. In adults with FTLBs, only impairment and global scores significantly improved, with a mean decrease in the YGTSS global score of 19.6 points, 95% CI −3.2, 42.3, p = .04. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression were the most used treatment in both age groups.

Conclusions

This prospective study suggests that adolescents have a better prognosis than adults with FTLBs. Management of comorbidities with SSRIs and CBT seems effective.
Spatial metabolomics for evaluating response to neoadjuvant therapy in non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Shen Jian , Sun Na , Zens Philipp , Kunzke Thomas , Buck Achim , Prade Verena M. , Wang Jun , Wang Qian , Hu Ronggui , Feuchtinger Annette , Berezowska Sabina , Walch Axel
Published: May 2022

Background

The response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) differs substantially among individual patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Major pathological response (MPR) is a histomorphological read‐out used to assess treatment response and prognosis in patients NSCLC after NAC. Although spatial metabolomics is a promising tool for evaluating metabolic phenotypes, it has not yet been utilized to assess therapy responses in patients with NSCLC. We evaluated the potential application of spatial metabolomics in cancer tissues to assess the response to NAC, using a metabolic classifier that utilizes mass spectrometry imaging combined with machine learning.

Methods

Resected NSCLC tissue specimens obtained after NAC (n = 88) were subjected to high‐resolution mass spectrometry, and these data were used to develop an approach for assessing the response to NAC in patients with NSCLC. The specificities of the generated tumor cell and stroma classifiers were validated by applying this approach to a cohort of biologically matched chemotherapy‐naïve patients with NSCLC (n = 85).

Results

The developed tumor cell metabolic classifier stratified patients into different prognostic groups with 81.6% accuracy, whereas the stroma metabolic classifier displayed 78.4% accuracy. By contrast, the accuracies of MPR and TNM staging for stratification were 62.5% and 54.1%, respectively. The combination of metabolic and MPR classifiers showed slightly lower accuracy than either individual metabolic classifier. In multivariate analysis, metabolic classifiers were the only independent prognostic factors identified (tumor: P = 0.001, hazards ratio [HR] = 3.823, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.716–8.514; stroma: P = 0.049, HR = 2.180, 95% CI = 1.004–4.737), whereas MPR (P = 0.804; HR = 0.913; 95% CI = 0.445–1.874) and TNM staging (P = 0.078; HR = 1.223; 95% CI = 0.977–1.550) were not independent prognostic factors. Using Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses, both tumor and stroma metabolic classifiers were able to further stratify patients as NAC responders (P < 0.001) and non‐responders (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the metabolic constitutions of both tumor cells and the stroma are valuable additions to the classical histomorphology‐based assessment of tumor response.
One‐year COVID‐19 outcomes on the oncology care patient pathway: Results of a French descriptive, cross‐sectional comprehensive study (ONCOCARE‐COV)
Authors: Laurent Léonard , Brugel Mathias , Carlier Claire , Clere Florentin , Bertrand Aurélie , Botsen Damien , Boulagnon‐Rombi Camille , Dalstein Véronique , Debreuve‐Theresette Adeline , Deguelte Sophie , Garbar Christian , Mahmoudi Rachid , Marechal Antonin , Morland David , Rey Jean‐Baptiste , Schvartz Claire , Vallet Catherine , Merrouche Yacine , Slimano Florian , Bouché Olivier
Published: May 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic led to a widely documented disruption in cancer care pathway. Since a resurgence of the pandemic was expected after the first lockdown in France, the global impact on the cancer care pathway over the year 2020 was investigated.

Aims

This study aimed to describe the changes in the oncology care pathway for cancer screening, diagnosis, assessment, diagnosis annoucement procedure and treatment over a one‐year period.

Materials & Methods

The ONCOCARE‐COV study was a comprehensive, retrospective, descriptive, and cross‐sectional study comparing the years 2019 and 2020. All key indicators along the cancer care pathway assessing the oncological activity over four periods were described. This study was set in a high‐volume, public, single tertiary care center divided in two complementary sites (Reims University Hospital and Godinot Cancer Institute, Reims, France) which was located in a high COVID‐19 incidence area during both peaks of the outbreak.

Results

A total of 26,566 patient's files were active during the year 2020. Breast screening (−19.5%), announcement dedicated consultations (−9.2%), Intravenous and Hyperthermic Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPECs) (−25%), and oncogeriatric evaluations (−14.8%) were heavily disrupted in regard to 2020 activity. We identified a clear second outbreak wave impact on medical announcement procedures (October, −14.4%), radiotherapy sessions (October, −16%), number of new health record discussed in multidisciplinary tumor board meeting (November, −14.6%) and HIPECs (November, −100%). Moreover, 2020 cancer care activity stagnated compared to 2019.

Discussion

The oncological care pathway was heavily disrupted during the first and second peaks of the COVID‐19 outbreak. Between lockdowns, we observed a remarkable but non‐compensatory recovery as well as a lesser impact from the pandemic resurgence. However, in absence of an increase in activity, a backlog persisted.

Conclusion

Public health efforts are needed to deal with the consequences of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the oncology care pathway.
High Versatility of IPP and DMAPP Methyltransferases Enables Synthesis of C6, C7and C8Terpenoid Building Blocks
Authors: Drummond Laura , Haque Parab J. , Gu Binbin , Jung Julia S. , Schewe Hendrik , Dickschat Jeroen S. , Buchhaupt Markus
Published: May 2022

The natural substance class of terpenoids covers an extremely wide range of different structures, although their building block repertoire is limited to the C5compounds DMAPP and IPP. This study aims at the characterization of methyltransferases (MTases) that modify these terpene precursors and the demonstration of their suitability for biotechnological purposes. All seven enzymes tested accepted IPP as substrate and altogether five C6compounds and six C7compounds were formed within the reactions. A high selectivity for the deprotonation site as well as high stereoselectivity could be observed for most of the biocatalysts. Only the enzyme fromMicromonospora humialso accepted DMAPP as substrate, converting it into (2R)‐2‐methyl‐IPPin vitro. In vivostudies demonstrated the production of a C8compound and a hydride shift step within the MTase‐catalyzed reaction. Our study presents IPP/DMAPP MTases with very different catalytic properties, which provide biosynthetic access to many novel terpene‐derived structures.
Overview of in‐hospital outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with the revived directional coronary atherectomy
Authors: Numasawa Yohei , Inohara Taku , Ishii Hideki , Yamaji Kyohei , Kohsaka Shun , Sawano Mitsuaki , Amano Tetsuya , Nakamura Masato , Ikari Yuji ,   J‐PCI Registry Investigators
Published: May 2022

Objectives

We sought to provide clinical insights on the usage rate, indications, and in‐hospital outcomes of the revived directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) catheter (Atherocut™) in a Japanese nationwide percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) registry.

Background

Debulking devices such as the revived DCA catheter have become increasingly important in the era of complex PCI. However, little is known about PCI outcomes using a novel DCA catheter in contemporary real‐world practice.

Methods

We analyzed 188,324 patients who underwent PCI in 1112 hospitals from January to December 2018. Baseline characteristics and in‐hospital outcomes of patients with stable coronary artery disease or unstable angina who underwent PCI with or without the DCA were analyzed.

Results

Overall, 1696 patients (0.9%) underwent PCI with the DCA during the study period, predominantly for left main trunk or proximal left anterior descending artery lesions under a transfemoral approach. Patients in the DCA group were younger and had fewer comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease than patients in the non‐DCA group. Stentless PCI using the DCA with drug‐coated balloon angioplasty was a preferred treatment strategy in the DCA group (50.0%). Predefined in‐hospital adverse outcomes, including mortality (0.2% vs. 0.3%, p = 0.446) and periprocedural complications (1.8% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.697), were comparable between the two groups, whereas the fluoroscopy time was longer and the total contrast volume was higher in the DCA group.

Conclusions

In Japan, PCI using the revived DCA catheter is safely performed with low complication rates in patients with stable coronary artery disease or unstable angina.
Silicon Carbide Supported Liquid Phase (SLP) Hydroformylation Catalysis – Effective Reaction Kinetics from Continuous Gas‐phase Operation
Authors: Schörner Markus , Mitländer Kerstin , Wolf Moritz , Franke Robert , Haumann Marco
Published: May 2022

The hydroformylation reaction is one of the most important applications of homogeneous catalysis on an industrial scale with worldwide production capacities exceeding 15 Mio tons per year. Efficient catalyst immobilization becomes mandatory for such large‐scale processes. In this work, a supported liquid phase (SLP)‐type catalyst on a silicon carbide support material was applied in the continuous Rh‐bpp (bpp=biphephos) catalyzed gas‐phase hydroformylation of but‐1‐ene. A parameter variation was carried out in the pressure range from 0.5 to 3.0 bara for but‐1‐ene, 0.5 to 5 bara for H2, 0.5 to 5 bara for CO, and in the temperature range from 90 to 125 °C. Activation energies were determined for the individual reactions showing a shift in activation energy most significantly for the hydroformylation to n‐pentanal for temperatures of 110 °C and above. For all substrates the effective reaction orders were calculated and employed in a power‐law rate model giving good agreement of measured and modeled data within a ±20 % error margin. Similar results were obtained using a microkinetic model.
Catalytic Asymmetric Syntheses of Alkylidenecyclopropanes from Allenoates with Donor‐Acceptor and Diacceptor Diazo Reagents
Authors: Hasegawa Yoko , Cantin Thomas , Decaens Jonathan , Couve‐Bonnaire Samuel , Charette André B. , Poisson Thomas , Jubault Philippe
Published: May 2022

The first diastereo‐ and enantioselective cyclopropanation reactions of electron‐deficient allenes with donor‐acceptor and diacceptor diazo reagents are described. The desired enantioenriched alkylidenecyclopropanes (ACPs) were obtained in high yields with high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities in the presence of Rh2((S)‐TCPTAD)4 or Rh2((R)‐BTPCP)4 catalysts (up to 95 % yield, >95 : 5 d.r. and 99 : 1 e.r.). This methodology gave a direct access to ACPs bearing multiple electron‐deficient substituents and allows to further expand the availability of ACPs chemistry. Interestingly, during the examination of the scope of this reaction, the asymmetric intramolecular C−H insertion reaction into tert‐butyl group was observed as a side reaction with up to 94 : 6 e.r.
Messen – Tagungen – Konferenzen: Wie geht es weiter?
Authors: Böck Barbara
Published: May 2022

No abstract.
Chemoarchitecture of area prostriata in adult and developing mice: Comparison with presubiculum and parasubiculum
Authors: Chen Sheng‐Qiang , Chen Chang‐Hui , Xiang Xiao‐Jun , Zhang Shun‐Yu , Ding Song‐Lin
Published: May 2022

Retrosplenial area 29e, which was a cortical region described mostly in earlier rodent literature, is often included in the dorsal presubiculum (PrSd) or postsubiculum (PoS) in modern literature and commonly used brain atlases. Recent anatomical and molecular studies have revealed that retrosplenial area 29e belongs to the superficial layers of area prostriata, which in primates is found to be important in fast analysis of quickly moving objects in far peripheral visual field. As in primates, the prostriata in rodents adjoins area 29 (granular retrosplenial area), area 30 (agranular retrosplenial area), medial visual cortex, PrSd/PoS, parasubiculum (PaS), and postrhinal cortex (PoR). The present study aims to reveal the chemoarchitecture of the prostriata versus PrSd/PoS or PaS by means of a systematic survey of gene expression patterns in adult and developing mouse brains. First, we find many genes that display differential expression across the prostriata, PrSd/PoS, and PaS and that show obvious laminar expression patterns. Second, we reveal subsets of genes that selectively express in the dorsal or ventral parts of the prostriata, suggesting the existence of at least two subdivisions. Third, we detect some genes that shows differential expression in the prostriata of postnatal mouse brains from adjoining regions, thus enabling identification of the developing area prostriata. Fourth, gene expression difference of the prostriata from the medial primary visual cortex and PoR is also observed. Finally, molecular and connectional features of the prostriata in rodents and nonhuman primates are discussed and compared.
Vanadium‐Doped Molybdenum Diselenide Atomic Layers with Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetism
Authors: Deng Jianjun , Zhou Zhonghao , Chen Jinglong , Cheng Zhihai , Liu Jia , Wang Zhiyong
Published: May 2022

Diluted two‐dimensional magnetic semiconductors with high Curie temperature are highly sought after because of their potential applications in spintronics. Development of new techniques for preparation of high quality diluted magnetic semiconductors is critical for their applications. In this study, vanadium‐doped molybdenum selenide, a new diluted magnetic semiconductor, was synthesized by a single‐step chemical vapor deposition method. The merit of this method is that the molybdenum and vanadium precursors can be supplied to the growth substrate uniformly. Photoluminescence measurements reveal that the band gap of MoSe2 decreases after doping, which can be attributed to the formation of impurity energy band caused by p‐type doping at the valence band maximum. Thus, the V‐doped MoSe2 still maintains the semiconducting characteristics. Vibrating sample magnetometer studies clearly show the ferromagnetism of V‐doped MoSe2 at room temperature. DFT calculations illustrates the joint contribution of V dopants and nearby atoms to the magnetic moments. This study provides future prospects for the multifunctional application of two‐dimensional materials.
Positioning in the dialogue on gender and sexual diversity in Brazilian schools
Authors: Marques Pamela Lopes , Souza Laura Vilela e
Published: May 2022

This study sought to comprehend the effects of sharing reports of personal experiences that support people's opinions in a reflective structured dialogue (RSD) in the controversial topic of teaching gender and sexuality in schools. Positioning theory was used to analyze a dialogue session with 12 participants with different opinions and social functions related to the theme. Analysis showed how sharing personal experiences can be influenced by the positioning games assumed in the conversation sequence, which may limit the dialogic potential of the group. The implications of these games in considering the use of RSD and recommendations and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Two new hermit crab species ofDiogenes(Crustacea: Decapoda: Diogenidae) from Atlanto‐Mediterranean coasts of Iberian Peninsula: Poleward migrants or merely overlooked indigenous species?
Authors: Almón Bruno , Cuesta Jose A. , García‐Raso J. Enrique
Published: May 2022

A new hermit crab species of the genusDiogeneswith reddish‐orange cheliped,Diogenes erythromanussp. nov., is described and illustrated based on specimens from the Mediterranean coasts of the Iberian Peninsula, southern Spain. In addition, a second morphotype originating from Mauritanian waters and morphologically very close toD. erythromanussp. nov. is described as a different species,D. arguinensissp. nov. The new species are here compared to morphologically similar congeners, especially to those inhabiting the same geographical range.Diogenes erythromanussp. nov. is distinguishable from otherDiogenesprimarily by the shape and armature of the left cheliped, with a palm slightly higher than long, with a ridge of spines running along the proximal lower margin that continues with a series of spinose rows forming a central band parallel to the upper margin of the palm. The palm inD. arguinensissp. nov. is longer than high and shows similar proximal ridge, but without central spinose ridge. The shape of the cheliped is also different inD. arguinensissp. nov., with long dactylus, which is also flattened and twisted. Sequences from two mitochondrial and one nuclear genes, and comparative analyses with other available sequences for the genus, are also included. Molecular phylogenetic analyses support the morphological delimitation, withD. erythromanussp. nov. andD. arguinensissp. nov. forming a separate group, more related to other tropical species, which raises different possible explanations for its presence in the Iberian Peninsula.
Patterns of enzyme activities and nutrient availability within biocrusts under increasing aridity in Negev desert
Authors: Drahorad Sylvie , Felix‐Henningsen Peter , Siemens Jan , Marschner Bernd , Heinze Stefanie
Published: May 2022

Biocrusts are crucial for the biogeochemical cycles of semiarid ecosystems and strongly influenced by environmental factors. We examined topcrusts (0–2 mm) and the underlying subcrust (2–35 mm depth) at two sites of the Negev with contrasting rainfall. The results show that sampling sites differing in moisture regime and sampling depth had a significant effect on soil properties. The microbial biomass, the concentrations of water‐soluble carbon and nitrogen fractions, and the activities of eight enzymes of the carbon and nitrogen cycles decreased with decreasing available moisture and with increasing soil depth. The biomass‐specific enzyme activity of topcrusts shows an increase in enzyme activity with increasing biomass in the same proportion. Biomass‐specific enzyme activity revealed a strong nutrient demand and a high relative enzyme activity in subcrusts of the drier study area. Moreover, phosphatase activity was much higher in the biocrust of the drier study site. The ratios of carbon to nitrogen to phosphorous show a strong limitation of the latter two for the subcrusts in the Negev, while the ratio of water‐extractable organic nitrogen to water‐extractable organic carbon underlines the high importance of leaching for subcrusts in semiarid areas. We conclude that Negev topcrusts are highly effective zones of nutrient turnover, adopting to higher amounts of moisture with an increase in biomass and enzyme activity. The subcrusts are an important section of turnover and need to be included into studies on C, N, and P storage in crust covered ecosystems to reveal the processes in deeper soil.
Once a reservoir, always a reservoir? Seasonality affects the pathogen maintenance potential of amphibian hosts
Authors: Wilber Mark Q. , Ohmer Michel E. B. , Altman Karie A. , Brannelly Laura A. , LaBumbard Brandon C. , Le Sage Emily H. , McDonnell Nina B. , Muñiz Torres Aura Y. , Nordheim Caitlin L. , Pfab Ferdinand , Richards‐Zawacki Corinne L. , Rollins‐Smith Louise A. , Saenz Veronica , Voyles Jamie , Wetzel Daniel P. , Woodhams Douglas C. , Briggs Cheryl J.
Published: May 2022

Host species that can independently maintain a pathogen in a host community and contribute to infection in other species are important targets for disease management. However, the potential of host species to maintain a pathogen is not fixed over time, and an important challenge is understanding how within‐ and across‐season variability in host maintenance potential affects pathogen persistence over longer time scales relevant for disease management (e.g., years). Here, we sought to understand the causes and consequences of seasonal infection dynamics in leopard frogs (Rana sphenocephala and Rana pipiens) infected with the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). We addressed three questions broadly applicable to seasonal host–parasite systems. First, to what degree are observed seasonal patterns in infection driven by temperature‐dependent infection processes compared to seasonal host demographic processes? Second, how does seasonal variation in maintenance potential affect long‐term pathogen persistence in multi‐host communities? Third, does high deterministic maintenance potential relate to the long‐term stochastic persistence of pathogens in host populations with seasonal infection dynamics? To answer these questions, we used field data collected over 3 years on >1400 amphibians across four geographic locations, laboratory and mesocosm experiments, and a novel mathematical model. We found that the mechanisms that drive seasonal prevalence were different from those driving seasonal infection intensity. Seasonal variation in Bd prevalence was driven primarily by changes in host contact rates associated with breeding migrations to and from aquatic habitat. In contrast, seasonal changes in infection intensity were driven by temperature‐induced changes in Bd growth rate. Using our model, we found that the maintenance potential of leopard frogs varied significantly throughout the year and that seasonal troughs in infection prevalence made it unlikely that leopard frogs were responsible for long‐term Bd persistence in these seasonal amphibian communities, highlighting the importance of alternative pathogen reservoirs for Bd persistence. Our results have broad implications for management in seasonal host–pathogen systems, showing that seasonal changes in host and pathogen vital rates, rather than the depletion of susceptible hosts, can lead to troughs in pathogen prevalence and stochastic pathogen extirpation.
Relationship of diabetes, heart failure, and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide with cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hofer Felix , Pailer Ulrike , Sulzgruber Patrick , Gerges Christian , Winter Max‐Paul , Giugliano Robert P. , Gottsauner‐Wolf Michael , Hülsmann Martin , Kazem Niema , Koller Lorenz , Schönbauer Robert , Niessner Alexander , Hengstenberg Christian , Zelniker Thomas A.
Published: May 2022

Aims

We aim to explore the relationship of heart failure (HF) and diabetes with cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for HF (HHF) and to study the clinical utility of N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) in an unselected patient population with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and results

Patients with AF admitted to a tertiary academic center between January 2005 and July 2019 were identified through a search of electronic health records. We used Cox regression models adjusted for age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate, diabetes, HF, body mass index, prior myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, hypertension, smoking, C‐reactive protein, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. To select the most informative variables, we performed a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression with 10‐fold cross‐validation. In total, 7412 patients (median age 70 years, 39.7% female) were included in this analysis and followed over a median of 4.5 years. Both diabetes [adjusted (Adj.) HR 1.87, 95% CI 1.55–2.25] and HF (Adj. HR 2.57, 95% CI 2.22–2.98) were significantly associated with CV death/HHF after multivariable adjustment. Compared with patients with diabetes, HF patients had a higher risk of HHF but a similar risk of CV and all‐cause death. NT‐proBNP showed good discriminatory performance (area under the curve 0.78, 95% CI 0.77–0.80) and the addition of NT‐proBNP to the covariates used for adjustment resulted in a significant area under the curve improvement (Δ = 0.04, P < 0.001). With least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, the strongest associations for CV death/HHF were obtained for NT‐proBNP [HR 1.91 per 1‐SD in log‐transformed biomarker], HF (HR 1.72), and diabetes (HR 1.56).

Conclusions

Diabetes and HF were independently associated with an increased risk of CV death/HHF in an unselected AF patient population, and NT‐proBNP improved risk assessment. These findings suggest that AF patients with diabetes and/or HF should be managed not only for their risk of stroke and systemic embolic events but also for CV death/HHF.
Synthesis of Polycyclic Quinazolinones through C(sp3)−H Functionalization of Inert Alkanes or Visible‐Light‐Promoted Oxidation Decarboxylation of N‐Hydroxyphthalimide Esters
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Kang , Li Jiao‐Zhe , Zhang Can‐Can , Zhang Jian , Zheng Yan‐Nan , Hu Yufang , Li Ting , Wei Wen‐Ting
Published: May 2022

Two novel C(sp3)−H functionalization of inert alkanes and visible‐light promoted oxidation decarboxylation of N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHP) esters to access polycyclic quinazolinones have been described. These methods do not involve metal catalysts and are carried out in water or water/DMSO media. The wide substrate scope, even including the seven‐membered ring under mild reaction conditions, demonstrate the practicability of these strategies.
Identification of the thermal conductivity tensor for transversely isotropic materials
Authors: Tröger Jendrik‐Alexander , Hartmann Stefan
Published: May 2022

The knowledge of the thermal conductivities is of particular interest for the thermo‐mechanical modeling of transversely isotropic composite materials. Hence, the identification of these material parameters by solving an inverse problem is significant, as they cannot be directly measured. In this study, a suitable experimental setup is presented, where infrared thermography is used to measure the surface temperatures of thin specimens. Further, a local identifiability concept is employed to study whether locally unique parameters can be obtained. This leads to a particular step‐wise identification concept. The parameter identification is performed applying a nonlinear least‐square approach and finite elements. In the step‐wise identification process the convection coefficient is required first, and, subsequently, the coefficients of the thermal conductivity tensor are determined. Due to the step‐wise identification, the uncertainties of previously identified parameters have to be considered in the subsequent identification steps. The resulting uncertainties are estimated using the Gaussian error propagation concept. It turns out that the thermal conductivities of transversely isotropic materials are generally identifiable from surface temperature data. Furthermore, since all uncertainties have an essential influence on the results of real numerical simulations, their error propagation should be considered in resulting boundary‐value problems. Thus, the uncertainty quantification is demonstrated by a validation experiment.
CeO2 Nanoparticles Seed Priming Increases Salicylic Acid Level and ROS Scavenging Ability to Improve Rapeseed Salt Tolerance
Authors: Khan Mohammad Nauman , Li Yanhui , Fu Chengcheng , Hu Jin , Chen Linlin , Yan Jiasen , Khan Zaid , Wu Honghong , Li Zhaohu
Published: May 2022

Soil salinity is a major issue limiting efficient crop production. Seed priming with nanomaterials (nanopriming) is a cost‐effective technology to improve seed germination under salinity; however, the underlying mechanisms still need to be explored. Here, polyacrylic acid coated nanoceria (cerium oxide nanoparticles) (PNC, 9.2 nm, −38.7 mV) are synthesized and characterized. The results show that under salinity, PNC priming significantly increases rapeseed shoot length (41.5%), root length (93%), and seedling dry weight (78%) compared to the no‐nanoparticle (NNP) priming group. Confocal imaging results show that compared with NNP group, PNC priming significantly reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in leaf (94.3% of H2O2, 56.4% of •O2−) and root (38.4% of H2O2, 41.3% of •O2−) of salt stressed rapeseed seedlings. Further, the results show that compared with the NNP group, PNC priming not only increases salicylic acid (SA) content in shoot (51.3%) and root (78.4%), but also upregulates the expression of SA biosynthesis related genes in salt stressed rapeseed. Overall, PNC nanopriming improved rapeseed salt tolerance is associated with both the increase of ROS scavenging ability and the increase of salicylic acid. The results add more information to understand the complexity of mechanisms behind nanoceria priming improved plant salt tolerance.
Myeloid p38 activation maintains macrophage–liver crosstalk and BAT thermogenesis through IL‐12–FGF21 axis
Authors: Crespo María , Nikolic Ivana , Mora Alfonso , Rodríguez Elena , Leiva‐Vega Luis , Pintor‐Chocano Aránzazu , Horrillo Daniel , Hernández‐Cosido Lourdes , Torres Jorge L. , Novoa Eva , Nogueiras Rubén , Medina‐Gómez Gema , Marcos Miguel , Leiva Magdalena , Sabio Guadalupe
Published: May 2022

Obesity features excessive fat accumulation in several body tissues and induces a state of chronic low‐grade inflammation that contributes to the development of diabetes, steatosis, and insulin resistance. Recent research has shown that this chronic inflammation is crucially dependent on p38 pathway activity in macrophages, suggesting p38 inhibition as a possible treatment for obesity comorbidities. Nevertheless, we report here that lack of p38 activation in myeloid cells worsens high‐fat diet–induced obesity, diabetes, and steatosis. Deficient p38 activation increases macrophage IL‐12 production, leading to inhibition of hepatic FGF21 and reduction of thermogenesis in the brown fat. The implication of FGF21 in the phenotype was confirmed by its specific deletion in hepatocytes. We also found that IL‐12 correlates with liver damage in human biopsies, indicating the translational potential of our results. Our findings suggest that myeloid p38 has a dual role in inflammation and that drugs targeting IL‐12 might improve the homeostatic regulation of energy balance in response to metabolic stress.
Mas‐related G protein‐coupled receptor type D antagonism improves portal hypertension in cirrhotic rats
Authors: Gunarathne Lakmie S. , Rajapaksha Indu G. , Casey Stephen , Qaradakhi Tawar , Zulli Anthony , Rajapaksha Harinda , Trebicka Jonel , Angus Peter W. , Herath Chandana B.
Published: May 2022

Splanchnic vasodilatation contributes to the development and aggravation of portal hypertension (PHT). We previously demonstrated that in cirrhosis, angiotensin‐ mediates splanchnic vasodilatation through the Mas receptor (MasR). In this study, we investigated whether the recently characterized second receptor for angiotensin‐(1–7), Mas‐related G protein‐coupled receptor type D (MrgD), contributes to splanchnic vasodilatation in cirrhotic and noncirrhotic PHT. Splanchnic vascular hemodynamic and portal pressure were determined in two rat models of cirrhotic PHT and a rat model with noncirrhotic PHT, treated with either MrgD blocker D‐Pro7‐Ang‐(1‐7) (D‐Pro) or MasR blocker A779. Gene and protein expression of MrgD and MasR were measured in splanchnic vessels and livers of cirrhotic and healthy rats and in patients with cirrhosis and healthy subjects. Mesenteric resistance vessels isolated from cirrhotic rats were used in myographs to study their vasodilatory properties. MrgD was up‐regulated in cirrhotic splanchnic vessels but not in the liver. In cirrhotic rats, treatment with D‐Pro but not A779 completely restored splanchnic vascular resistance to a healthy level, resulting in a 33% reduction in portal pressure. Mesenteric vessels pretreated with D‐Pro but not with A779 failed to relax in response to acetylcholine. There was no splanchnic vascular MrgD or MasR up‐regulation in noncirrhotic PHT; thus, receptor blockers had no effect on splanchnic hemodynamics. Conclusion: MrgD plays a major role in the development of cirrhotic PHT and is a promising target for the development of novel therapies to treat PHT in cirrhosis. Moreover, neither MrgD nor MasR contributes to noncirrhotic PHT.
Sex and External Size Specific Limitations in Assessing Bone Health From Adult Hand Radiographs
Authors: Bigelow Erin M.R. , Goulet Robert W. , Ciarelli Antonio , Schlecht Stephen H. , Kohn David H. , Bredbenner Todd L. , Harlow Sioban D. , Karvonen‐Gutierrez Carrie A. , Jepsen Karl J.
Published: May 2022

Morphological parameters measured for the second metacarpal from hand radiographs are used clinically for assessing bone health during growth and aging. Understanding how these morphological parameters relate to metacarpal strength and strength at other anatomical sites is critical for providing informed decision‐making regarding treatment strategies and effectiveness. The goals of this study were to evaluate the extent to which 11 morphological parameters, nine of which were measured from hand radiographs, relate to experimentally measured whole‐bone strength assessed at multiple anatomical sites and to test whether these associations differed between men and women. Bone morphology and strength were assessed for the second and third metacarpals, radial diaphysis, femoral diaphysis, and proximal femur for 28 white male donors (18–89 years old) and 35 white female donors (36–89+ years old). The only morphological parameter to show a significant correlation with strength without a sex‐specific effect was cortical area. Dimensionless morphological parameters derived from hand radiographs correlated significantly with strength for females, but few did for males. Males and females showed a significant association between the circularity of the metacarpal cross‐section and the outer width measured in the mediolateral direction. This cross‐sectional shape variation contributed to systematic bias in estimating strength using cortical area and assuming a circular cross‐section. This was confirmed by the observation that use of elliptical formulas reduced the systematic bias associated with using circular approximations for morphology. Thus, cortical area was the best predictor of strength without a sex‐specific difference in the correlation but was not without limitations owing to out‐of‐plane shape variations. The dependence of cross‐sectional shape on the outer bone width measured from a hand radiograph may provide a way to further improve bone health assessments and informed decision making for optimizing strength‐building and fracture‐prevention treatment strategies. © 2022 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Removal of Cr(VI) by a simply prepared biochar‐supported nanoscale zero‐valent iron
Authors: Cao Chun‐Yan , Chen Si‐Lin , Wan Xin , Wang Min , Song Zhi‐Guo , Zhao Shuang
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Cr(VI) is highly migratory and toxic, and long‐term exposure to Cr(VI) is likely to cause cancer, teratogenesis and mutagenicity. Therefore, the removal of Cr(VI) in polluted wastewater is the key to ensure the safety of water quality. In this study, a composite material consisting of nanoscale zero‐valent iron (NZVI) particles supported on biochar derived from starch (NZVI/BC) was prepared via carbonizing the mixture of starch and ferric nitrate in inert gas and used for removal of Cr(VI) from solution. The effects of NZVI/BC dosage, initial pH and reaction temperature on the removal efficiency of Cr(VI) were investigated.

RESULTS

The results revealed that H2 and CH4 originating from the decomposition of starch acted as reducing agents for in situ generation of NZVI from Fe precursors. The removal efficiency of Cr(VI) was strongly dependent on dosage, pH and reaction temperature. Higher dosage, lower pH value and higher temperature led to an increase in Cr(VI) removal efficiency. Pseudo‐second‐order kinetics was suitable to describe the process of Cr(VI) removal by NZVI/BC.

CONCLUSIONS

NZVI/BC could be a potential and effective material for removal of Cr(VI) from solution. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Comparison between using hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk scores and the HCC national guideline to identify high‐risk chronic hepatitis B patients for HCC surveillance in Thailand
Authors: Rattananukrom Chitchai , Kitiyakara Taya
Published: May 2022

Background and Aim

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance in hepatitis B virus (HBV) patients is currently based on age/sex/cirrhosis, uses ultrasound abdomen every 6–12 months, and is a resource burden. HCC risk scores have been developed to classify HCC risk for surveillance. The number of HBV patients needing surveillance when HCC risk scores are used may be different from the current recommendation with implications on the resources needed for HCC surveillance.

Methods

HBV patients from the liver clinic were included and classified as non‐cirrhotic/cirrhotic and untreated/treated for analysis. Each subgroup was analyzed using REACH‐B, CU‐HCC, LSM‐HCC, GAG‐HCC, and mPAGE‐B risk scores as appropriate. The change in the number of patients needing HCC surveillance using the above risk scores was calculated.

Results

Seven‐hundred and thirteen HBV patients were included, of whom 361 (50.6%) were male with mean age 55.43 years, and 76 (10.7%) had cirrhosis. In the untreated, non‐cirrhotic subgroup, the percentage change of patients needing HCC surveillance was −69.5, −58.9, −58.8, and −54.1% when GAG‐HCC, LSM‐HCC, CU‐HCC, and REACH‐B were used compared to traditional criteria, respectively. In the treated, non‐cirrhotic subgroup, the percentage change of patients needing HCC surveillance decreased by −80, −75.2, −75.2, and −2.8% when GAG‐HCC, CU‐HCC, REACH‐B, and mPAGE‐B were used, respectively. For the cirrhotic group, HCC risk scores did not make much difference.

Conclusion

The use of HCC risk scores in non‐cirrhotic HBV patients reduced the number of patients needing surveillance greatly. HBV cirrhotic patients should have HCC surveillance without the need for risk score calculation. Patients with a family history of HCC should undergo surveillance until proven unnecessary in prospective trials.
Outcomes of pancreatic cancer with liver oligometastasis
Authors: Takeda Tsuyoshi , Sasaki Takashi , Okamoto Takeshi , Kasuga Akiyoshi , Matsuyama Masato , Ozaka Masato , Inoue Yosuke , Takahashi Yu , Saiura Akio , Sasahira Naoki
Published: May 2022

Background

Liver oligometastatic pancreatic cancer (PC) may have favorable outcomes. This study aims to evaluate outcomes and factors associated with overall survival (OS) of these patients.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated consecutive PC patients with liver metastasis treated at our institution between 2013 and 2020. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared and analyzed according to the extent of liver metastasis. Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify prognostic factors for OS.

Results

A total of 417 patients were included (multi‐organ metastasis/polymetastasis/oligometastasis 174/158/85). Oligometastasis showed a longer OS compared to other types of metastases (7.7 vs 8.2 vs 13.1 months). Age <70 years, performance status of 0, modified Glasgow prognostic score of 0, carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 <1000 U/mL were identified as significant prognostic factors for OS. A prognostic index consisting of these four factors successfully stratified the prognosis of these patients (prognostic index; high vs low, 19.9 vs 8.3 months). Highly selected patients who underwent surgical resection showed a median OS of 54.6 months.

Conclusions

Oligometastasis presented a relatively favorable outcome. Our new prognostic index was useful in stratifying the prognosis of these patients. Multimodal treatment including surgery may have additional survival benefits for highly selected patients.
Macrophage orchestration of epithelial and stromal cell homeostasis in the intestine
Authors: Cao Qian , Mertens Randall Tyler , Sivanathan Kisha Nandini , Cai Xuechun , Xiao Peng
Published: May 2022

The intestinal tract is a complex ecosystem where numerous cell types of epithelial, immune, neuronal, and endothelial origin coexist in an intertwined, highly organized manner. The functional equilibrium of the intestine relies heavily on the proper crosstalk and cooperation among each cell population. Furthermore, macrophages are versatile, innate immune cells that participate widely in the modulation of inflammation and tissue remodeling. Emerging evidence suggest that macrophages are central in orchestrating tissue homeostasis. Herein, we describe how macrophages interact with epithelial cells, neurons, and other types of mesenchymal cells under the context of intestinal inflammation, followed by the therapeutic implications of cellular crosstalk pertaining to the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.