bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Facile Synthesized Polymer Featuring B‐N Covalent Bond and Small Singlet‐Triplet Gap for High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Pang Shuting , Wang Zhiqiang , Yuan Xiyue , Pan Langheng , Deng Wanyuan , Tang Haoran , Wu Hongbin , Chen Shanshan , Duan Chunhui , Huang Fei , Cao Yong
Published: March 2021

High‐efficiency organic solar cells (OSCs) largely rely on polymer donors. Herein, we report a new building block BNT and a relevant polymer PBNT‐BDD featuring B‐N covalent bond for application in OSCs. The BNT unit is synthesized in only 3 steps, leading to the facile synthesis of PBNT‐BDD. When blended with a nonfullerene acceptor Y6‐BO, PBNT‐BDD afforded a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.1 % in an OSC, comparable to the benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene (BDT)‐based counterpart. The nonradiative recombination energy loss of 0.19 eV was afforded by PBNT‐BDD. PBNT‐BDD also exhibited weak crystallinity and appropriate miscibility with Y6‐BO, benefitting of morphological stability. The singlet–triplet gap (ΔEST) of PBNT‐BDD is as low as 0.15 eV, which is much lower than those of common organic semiconductors (≥0.6 eV). As a result, the triplet state of PBNT‐BDD is higher than the charge transfer (CT) state, which would suppress the recombination via triplet state effectively.
High‐Throughput Electron Diffraction Reveals a Hidden Novel Metal–Organic Framework for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Ge Meng , Wang Yanzhi , Carraro Francesco , Liang Weibin , Roostaeinia Morteza , Siahrostami Samira , Proserpio Davide M. , Doonan Christian , Falcaro Paolo , Zheng Haoquan , Zou Xiaodong , Huang Zhehao
Published: March 2021

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are known for their versatile combination of inorganic building units and organic linkers, which offers immense opportunities in a wide range of applications. However, many MOFs are typically synthesized as multiphasic polycrystalline powders, which are challenging for studies by X‐ray diffraction. Therefore, developing new structural characterization techniques is highly desired in order to accelerate discoveries of new materials. Here, we report a high‐throughput approach for structural analysis of MOF nano‐ and sub‐microcrystals by three‐dimensional electron diffraction (3DED). A new zeolitic‐imidazolate framework (ZIF), denoted ZIF‐EC1, was first discovered in a trace amount during the study of a known ZIF‐CO3‐1 material by 3DED. The structures of both ZIFs were solved and refined using 3DED data. ZIF‐EC1 has a dense 3D framework structure, which is built by linking mono‐ and bi‐nuclear Zn clusters and 2‐methylimidazolates (mIm−). With a composition of Zn3(mIm)5(OH), ZIF‐EC1 exhibits high N and Zn densities. We show that the N‐doped carbon material derived from ZIF‐EC1 is a promising electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The discovery of this new MOF and its conversion to an efficient electrocatalyst highlights the power of 3DED in developing new materials and their applications.
Neutralizing Aptamers Block S/RBD‐ACE2 Interactions and Prevent Host Cell Infection
Authors: Liu Xiaohui , Wang Yi‐ling , Wu Jacky , Qi Jianjun , Zeng Zihua , Wan Quanyuan , Chen Zhenghu , Manandhar Pragya , Cavener Victoria S. , Boyle Nina R. , Fu Xinping , Salazar Eric , Kuchipudi Suresh V. , Kapur Vivek , Zhang Xiaoliu , Umetani Michihisa , Sen Mehmet , Willson Richard C. , Chen Shu‐hsia , Zu Youli
Published: March 2021

The receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike (S) protein plays a central role in mediating the first step of virus infection to cause disease: virus binding to angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors on human host cells. Therefore, S/RBD is an ideal target for blocking and neutralization therapies to prevent and treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Using a target‐based selection approach, we developed oligonucleotide aptamers containing a conserved sequence motif that specifically targets S/RBD. Synthetic aptamers had high binding affinity for S/RBD‐coated virus mimics (KD≈7 nM) and also blocked interaction of S/RBD with ACE2 receptors (IC50≈5 nM). Importantly, aptamers were able to neutralize S protein‐expressing viral particles and prevent host cell infection, suggesting a promising COVID‐19 therapy strategy.
Biogenesis‐Guided Synthesis and Structural Revision of Sarocladione Enabled by Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Endoperoxide Fragmentation
Authors: Ning Yuhan , Tian Hailong , Gui Jinghan
Published: March 2021

Sarocladione is the first 5,10:8,9‐diseco‐steroid with a 14‐membered macrocyclic diketone framework to have been isolated from a natural source. Herein we report a biomimetic synthesis of sarocladione in only two or seven steps from inexpensive, commercially available ergosterol. The key feature of this synthesis was a novel ruthenium‐catalyzed endoperoxide fragmentation, which transformed various saturated endoperoxides into olefinic diketones by cleavage of two C−C bonds. This synthesis allowed us to unambiguously determine the structure of sarocladione and provided experimental support for its revised biosynthetic origin. This work also vividly demonstrates that consideration of the biogenesis is a powerful tool for elucidating the structures of natural products.
An Area‐Specific, International Community‐Led Approach to Understanding and Addressing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Issues within Supramolecular Chemistry
Authors: Caltagirone Claudia , Draper Emily R. , Hardie Michaele J. , Haynes Cally J. E. , Hiscock Jennifer R. , Jolliffe Katrina A. , Kieffer Marion , McConnell Anna J. , Leigh Jennifer S.
Published: March 2021

Diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI/EDI) are pressing issues in chemistry and the natural sciences. In this Essay we share how an area‐specific approach is “calling in” the community so that it can act to address EDI issues, and support those who are marginalised. Women In Supramolecular Chemistry (WISC) is an international network that aims to support equality, diversity, and inclusion within supramolecular chemistry. WISC has taken a field‐specific approach using qualitative research methods with scientists to identify the support that is needed and the problems the supramolecular community needs to address. Herein, we present survey data from the community which highlight the barriers that are faced by those who take career breaks for any reason, a common example is maternity leave, and the importance of mentoring to aid progression post‐PhD. In conclusion, we set out an interdisciplinary and creative approach to addressing EDI issues within supramolecular chemistry.
Linking the Dynamic Chemical State of Catalysts with the Product Profile of Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Wang Jiali , Tan Hui‐Ying , Zhu Yanping , Chu Hang , Chen Hao Ming
Published: March 2021

The promoted activity and enhanced selectivity of electrocatalysts is commonly ascribed to specific structural features such as surface facets, morphology, and atomic defects. However, unraveling the factors that really govern the direct electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) is still very challenging since the surface state of electrocatalysts is dynamic and difficult to predict under working conditions. Moreover, theoretical predictions from the viewpoint of thermodynamics alone often fail to specify the actual configuration of a catalyst for the dynamic CO2RR process. Herein, we re‐survey recent studies with the emphasis on revealing the dynamic chemical state of Cu sites under CO2RR conditions extracted by in situ/operando characterizations, and further validate a critical link between the chemical state of Cu and the product profile of CO2RR. This point of view provides a generalizable concept of dynamic chemical‐state‐driven CO2RR selectivity that offers an inspiration in both fundamental understanding and efficient electrocatalysts design.
Triblock SEBS/DVB crosslinked and sulfonated membranes: Fuel cell performance and conductivity
Authors: Teruel‐Juanes Roberto , del Río Carmen , Gil‐Castell Oscar , Primaz Carmem , Ribes‐Greus Amparo
Published: March 2021

A set of styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene triblock copolymer (SEBS) membranes with 10 or 25 wt% divinyl‐benzene (DVB) as a crosslinking agent were prepared and validated. Physicochemical characterization revealed suitable hydrolytic and thermal stability of photo‐crosslinked membranes containing 25 wt% DVB and post‐sulfonated. These compositions were evaluated in H2/O2 single cells, and electrical and proton conductivities were furtherly assessed. The membranes with the milder post‐sulfonation showed greater proton conductivity than those with excessive sulfonation. In terms of electrical conductivity, a universal power law was applied, and the values obtained were low enough for being used as polyelectrolytes. At the analyzed temperatures, the charge transport process follows a long‐range pathway or vehicular model. Finally, fuel cell performance revealed the best behavior for the membrane with 25 wt% DVB, photo‐crosslinked during 30 min and mild sulfonated, with a promising power density of 526 mW·cm−2. Overall, the results obtained highlight the promising fuel cell performance of these cost‐effective triblock copolymer‐based membranes and indicate that higher sulfonation does not necessarily imply better power density.
Virtual Scientific Conferences: Benefits and How to Support Underrepresented Students
Authors: Estien Cesar O. , Myron Eli B. , Oldfield Callie A. , Alwin Ajisha ,   Ecological Society of America Student Section
Published: March 2021

Ecological conferences provide a unique opportunity for scientists in the field of ecology to develop meaningful connections and exchange research in a rapid, multi‐day, in‐person format. For students and early‐career researchers, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, in‐person conferences are challenging to attend due to the burdens on finances and time. However, as COVID‐19 continues to restrict scientific societies' abilities to host large, in‐person conferences, virtual conferences have increased in prevalence. For students and early‐career researchers, virtual conferences present a multitude of benefits, including reduced attendance costs, increased accessibility to a wider range of conference resources, and reduced levels of anxiety. These factors make virtual conferences more accessible to those historically excluded from science. Further, microcommunities, which we define as a small network of individuals in the same career stage, can provide additional support for students via interacting closely with peers of the same identity, constructing workshops, and fostering belongingness in STEM. In this paper, we discuss the benefits associated with virtual conferences (focusing on students of underrepresented backgrounds), and we suggest methods to continue increasing inclusivity in STEM and scientific conferences as the world continues to adapt in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic.
The effects of engineered nanoparticles on nitrification during biological wastewater treatment
Authors: Xing Yun , Harper Willie F.
Published: March 2021

Technological advancements in the past few decades have made it possible to manufacture nanomaterials at a large scale, and engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) are increasingly found in consumer products, such as cosmetics, sports products, and LED displays. A large amount of these ENPs end up in wastewater and potentially impact the performance of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). One important function of the WWTP is nitrification, which is carried out by the actions of two groups of bacteria, ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB), and nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria (NOB). Since most ENPs are found to have or are designed to have antimicrobial activities, it is a legitimate concern that ENPs entering WWTPs may have negative impacts on nitrification. In this paper, the effects of ENPs on nitrification are discussed, focusing mainly on autotrophic nitrification by AOBs and NOBs. This review also covers ENP effects on anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox). Generally, nitrifiers in pure and mixed cultures can be inhibited by a variety of ENPs, but stress response mechanisms may attenuate toxicity. Long‐term studies demonstrated that a wide range of NPs could cause severe deterioration of AOBs and/or NOBs when the influent concentration exceeded an inhibition threshold. Proposed mechanisms include the generation of reactive oxygen species, dissolved metals, physical disruption of cell membranes, bacterial engulfment, and intracellular accumulation of ENPs. Future research needs are also discussed.
Practising counsellors’ identity salience in clinical supervision
Authors: Jones Connie T. , Welfare Laura E. , Cook Ryan
Published: March 2021

Counsellors are called to appreciate variety within human experience and culture (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions, 2018). Similarly, counselling and psychotherapy supervisors who support the ongoing development of supervisees are tasked with understanding supervisees in their own cultural context. Supervisees and supervisors bring their own social and cultural identities into the supervisory space. In this study of 94 supervisees, the researchers sought to explore which social or cultural identity supervisees named as most salient in the supervisory relationship and whether the salient identity was one of minoritised or marginalised status. Gender, religion, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation or nationality was often listed as most salient. Further, individuals who identified with a minoritised/marginalised race/ethnicity, nationality or sexual orientation were likely to list that identity as most salient in their supervisory relationship. Implications include the importance of respectful inquisitiveness and supervisor readiness to consider a variety of salient social and cultural identities. Given many of these identities are invisible or ambiguous, supervisors who display cultural humility may be best positioned to provide culturally competent supervision.
Mechanical circulatory support in acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock: Challenges and importance of randomized control trials
Authors: Basir Mir B. , Pinto Duane S. , Ziaeian Boback , Khandelwal Akshay , Cowger Jennifer , Suh William , Althouse Andrew
Published: March 2021

Background

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Methods

We provide an overview of previously conducted studies on the use of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices in the treatment of AMI‐CS and difficulties which may be encountered in conducting such trials in the United States.

Results

Well powered randomized control trials are difficult to conduct in a critically ill patient population due to physician preferences, perceived lack of equipoise and challenges obtaining informed consent.

Conclusions

With growth in utilization of MCS devices in patients with AMI‐CS, efforts to perform well‐powered, randomized control trials must be undertaken.
BRAF‐mutated malignant melanoma with chondrosarcomatous differentiation in inguinal nodal metastasis
Authors: Abbati Francesca , Altimari Annalisa , Corti Barbara , Dika Emi , Sperandi Francesca , Melotti Barbara
Published: March 2021

We report the case of a young woman who developed metastatic melanoma in the inguinal nodal region, which acquired chondrosarcomatous differentiation and preserved the BRAF mutation found in the primary tumor. The patient was treated with a BRAF/MEK inhibitor combination therapy (dabrafenib/trametinib), which was demonstrated to be effective and well‐tolerated.
Electrografted Interfaces on Metal Oxide Electrodes for Enzyme Immobilization and Bioelectrocatalysis
Authors: Harris Tomos G. A. A. , Heidary Nina , Frielingsdorf Stefan , Rauwerdink Sander , Tahraoui Abbes , Lenz Oliver , Zebger Ingo , Fischer Anna
Published: March 2021

In this work, we demonstrate that diazonium electrografting of biocompatible interfaces on transparent conducting oxide indium tin oxide (ITO) can be controlled and optimized to achieve low charge transfer resistance, allowing highly efficient electron transfer to an immobilized model enzyme, the oxygen‐tolerant [NiFe]‐hydrogenase from Ralstonia eutropha. The use of a radical scavenger enables control of the interface thickness, and thus facilitates maximization of direct electron transfer processes between the enzyme's active center and the electrode. Using this approach, amine and carboxylic acid functionalities were grafted on ITO, allowing enzyme immobilization both under moderate electrostatic control and covalently via amide bond formation. Despite an initial decrease in catalytic activity, covalent immobilization led to an improvement in current stability compared to just electrostatically immobilized enzyme. Given the superior stability of electrografted interfaces in comparison to adsorbed or self‐assembled interfaces, we propose electrografting as an alternative approach for the functional immobilization of redox‐active enzymes on transparent conducting oxide (TCO) electrodes in bioelectronic devices.
Acute cardiovascular hospitalizations and illness severity before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Rao Vishal N. , Kelsey Michelle D. , Kelsey Anita M. , Russell Stuart D. , Mentz Robert J. , Patel Manesh R. , Fudim Marat
Published: March 2021

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) hospitalizations declined worldwide during the COVID‐19 pandemic. It is unclear how shelter‐in‐place orders affected acute CVD hospitalizations, illness severity, and outcomes.

Hypothesis

COVID‐19 pandemic was associated with reduced acute CVD hospitalizations (heart failure [HF], acute coronary syndrome [ACS], and stroke [CVA]), and worse HF illness severity.

Methods

We compared acute CVD hospitalizations at Duke University Health System before and after North Carolina's shelter‐in‐place order (January 1–March 29 vs. March 30–August 31), and used parallel comparison cohorts from 2019. We explored illness severity among admitted HF patients using ADHERE (“high risk”: >2 points) and GWTG‐HF (“>10%”: >57 points) in‐hospital mortality risk scores, as well as echocardiography‐derived parameters.

Results

Comparing hospitalizations during January 1–March 29 (N = 1618) vs. March 30–August 31 (N = 2501) in 2020, mean daily CVD hospitalizations decreased (18.2 vs. 16.1 per day, p = .0036), with decreased length of stay (8.4 vs. 7.5 days, p = .0081) and no change in in‐hospital mortality (4.7 vs. 5.3%, p = .41). HF hospitalizations decreased (9.0 vs. 7.7 per day, p = .0019), with higher ADHERE (“high risk”: 2.5 vs. 4.5%; p = .030), but unchanged GWTG‐HF (“>10%”: 5.3 vs. 4.6%; p = .45), risk groups. Mean LVEF was lower (39.0 vs. 37.2%, p = .034), with higher mean LV mass (262.4 vs. 276.6 g, p = .014).

Conclusions

CVD hospitalizations, HF illness severity, and echocardiography measures did not change between admission periods in 2019. Evaluating short‐term data, the COVID‐19 shelter‐in‐place order was associated with reductions in acute CVD hospitalizations, particularly HF, with no significant increase in in‐hospital mortality and only minor differences in HF illness severity.
Recent Advances in Y6‐Based Semiconductors: Performance in Solar Cells, Crystallography, and Electronic Structure
Authors: Li Xuena , Lu Haipeng , Zhu Weigang
Published: March 2021

The advent of crescent‐shaped Y6 and its derivatives have recently enabled exceptionally high solar cell performance metrics, for structural, physical, and transport characteristics that remain poorly understood. Here we summarize recent progress on crystallography, electronic structure, and device performance of this kind of non‐fullerene acceptors. First, we discuss molecular engineering and the crystal structure of Y6 and its derivatives. Second, we present theoretical modeling of the molecular orbitals, reorganization energy, and electronic couplings. Third, we summarize single carrier diode and solar cell performance, and discuss the correlations between crystal structure and computational insights. Finally, we discuss unsolved problems and future developments in this field. Overall, this Minireview summarizes crystal structure, computational understanding, and device metrics, thus providing an outlook for future organic semiconductors design and mechanistic studies in fundamental research and industrial applications.
Development of an improved method to estimate the days of continuous drug ingestion, based on the micro‐segmental hair analysis
Authors: Kuwayama Kenji , Miyaguchi Hajime , Kanamori Tatsuyuki , Tsujikawa Kenji , Yamamuro Tadashi , Segawa Hiroki , Okada Yuki , Iwata Yuko T.
Published: March 2021

To prove drug‐related crimes, it is important to estimate the date on which a specific drug was ingested. Previously, we developed a method, “micro‐segmental hair analysis,” to estimate the day of ingestion of a single‐dose drug by segmenting a hair strand into 0.4‐mm segments, which correspond to daily hair growth. In this study, the method was improved to estimate the days of continuous drug ingestion. The subjects ingested four hay‐fever medicines (fexofenadine, epinastine, cetirizine, and loratadine) continuously (1–18 days) and chlorpheniramine as a single dose at intervals of several weeks as an internal temporal marker (ITM). The hair strands of the subjects were collected and subjected to a micro‐segmental analysis. The distribution curves of each hay‐fever medicine in a hair strand had broad peaks reflecting the number of days of drug ingestion. The positions on the curves corresponding to the first and final ingestion days of hay‐fever medicines were identified using the ITM. The positions were near the hair segments on both ends of full width at half maximum (W2) of the broad peak. When the first and final days of continuous ingestion were estimated using W2, independent of peak shape, the absolute average error from the actual ingestion days was approximately 2 days. Overall, we established a method to estimate the days of both single‐dose and continuous drug ingestions. Furthermore, the method would be useful to investigate drug ingestion history in various scenes such as drug‐related crimes and therapeutic drug monitoring.
Dietary sodium levels affect grasshopper growth and performance
Authors: Peterson Taylor N. , Welti Ellen A. R. , Kaspari Michael
Published: March 2021

Anthropogenic activities are increasing terrestrial sodium availability through application of both saline irrigation water and road salt. Sodium often limits herbivore abundance, but less is known about the physiological, developmental, and behavioral means by which moderate increases in sodium availability can increase herbivore fitness. Here, we raised a grasshopper species on three no‐choice diets of wheatgrass watered with no sodium (control), a 1% (medium) sodium solution, and a 5% (high) sodium solution to examine the effects of sodium intake on grasshopper survival, morphology, and jumping performance. Grasshopper nymphs raised on a high sodium diet had lower weights and reduced survival compared to those raised on control or medium sodium diets. However, nymphs on a high sodium diet developed larger eye size standardized by body size and demonstrated increased jumping distance compared to nymphs on the control or medium sodium diets. As adults, grasshoppers on the medium sodium diet had the highest survival and grasshoppers on the high sodium diet had the least amount of cannibalism of the three treatments. Understanding the response of herbivore fitness to increasing diet sodium content is an important first step toward predicting how anthropogenic inputs of sodium into terrestrial systems will alter food webs.
Rethinking the management of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐related adrenal insufficiency in cancer patients during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Yuen Kevin C. J. , Mortensen Michael J. , Azadi Amir , Fonkem Ekokobe , Findling James W.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is currently a major pandemic challenge, and cancer patients are at a heightened risk of severity and mortality from this infection. In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) use to treat multiple cancers has increased in oncology, but equally has raised the question of whether ICI therapy and its side‐effects is harmful or beneficial during this pandemic.

Methods

A combination of published literature in PubMed between January 2010 and December 2020, recommended guidelines in non‐cancer patients, and clinical experience was utilized to outline recommendations on glucocorticoid timing and dosing regimens in ICI‐treated patients presenting with AI during this COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

The potential immune interaction between ICIs and COVID‐19 require major consideration because these agents act at the intersection between effective cancer immunotherapy and increasing patient susceptibility, severity and complications from the SARS‐CoV‐2 sepsis. Furthermore, ICI use can induce autoimmune adrenal insufficiency (AI) that further increases infection susceptibility. Thus, ICI‐treated cancer patients with AI may be at greater risk of COVID‐19 infection. Glucocorticoids are the cornerstone for replacement therapy, and for treatment and mitigation of adrenal crisis and relief of mass effects in ICI‐related hypophysitis. High‐dose glucocorticoids have also been used with cytotoxic chemotherapy as part of cancer treatment, and iatrogenic AI may arise after glucocorticoid discontinuation that increases the risk of adrenal crisis. Furthermore, in patients who develop the “long COVID‐19” syndrome, when to discontinue glucocorticoid therapy becomes crucial to avoid unnecessary prolongation of therapy and the development of iatrogenic hypercortisolemia.

Conclusion

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, much of cancer care have been impacted and an important clinical question is how to optimally manage ICI‐related AI during these unprecedented times. Herein, we suggest practical recommendations on the timing and dosing regimens of glucocorticoids in different clinical scenarios of ICI‐treated cancer patients presenting with AI during this COVID‐19 pandemic.
Copper‐Catalyzed Difluoroalkylation‐Thiolation of Alkenes Promoted by Na2S2O5
Authors: Gao Bao , Ni Yingjie , Liu Xiaojun , Jiang Tao , Yan Qian , Yang Ruiting , Zhang Xiuli
Published: March 2021

A novel and convenient protocol for the difluoroalkylation‐thiolation of alkenes catalyzed by Cu/Na2S2O5 system has been developed. This reaction was carried out using readily available starting materials under mild conditions, wherein the C−C and C−S bonds simultaneously were constructed smoothly. The reaction features broad substrate scope of alkenes and disulfides, good functional group tolerance, and good to excellent yields with high selectivity.
Lupin protein isolate improves insulin sensitivity and steatohepatitis in vivo and modulates the expression of the Fasn, Gys2, and Gsk3b genes
Authors: Soto‐Luna Irma Catalina , García‐López Pedro Macedonio , Vargas‐Guerrero Belinda , Guzmán Tereso Jovany , Domínguez‐Rosales José Alfredo , Gurrola‐Díaz Carmen Magdalena
Published: March 2021

Although studies on lupin protein isolate (LPI) have indicated the presence of a preventive effect on insulin resistance (IR) and lipid disturbances, their influence on established pathological traits has received little attention. Here, we evaluated the in vivo effects of LPI on IR and steatohepatitis as well as its influence on genes involved in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. We first induced IR and steatohepatitis in rats by maintaining them on a high‐fat diet for 5 weeks. Thereafter, we administered LPI to the rats daily for 3 weeks. LPI improved insulin sensitivity (AUC: 6,777 ± 232 vs. 4,971 ± 379, p < .05, pre‐ vs. post‐treatment values) and reduced glucose and triglyceride levels by one‐third. In addition, LPI‐treated rats exhibited attenuated steatohepatitis. At the molecular level, LPI treatment reduced liver Fasn gene expression substantially but increased Gys2 and Gsk3b levels. We concluded that the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities of LPI may be caused by reduced liver lipogenesis and modulation of insulin sensitization mechanisms.
Lack of psychotropic medication changes among mood disordered women across the peripartum period
Authors: Standeven Lindsay R. , Payne Jennifer L. , Pangtey Meeta , Osborne Lauren M.
Published: March 2021

Objective

Peripartum depression is a leading contributor to peripartum morbidity and mortality. Despite the evidence for relative safety, many patients and providers remain reluctant to use or modify psychotropics in the peripartum period. We hypothesized that depressed women in the peripartum period taking psychiatric medications would not experience dose adjustments.

Methods

Women with a prior history of either Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder were followed through pregnancy and the postpartum period (N = 229). Depressive symptoms were measured with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), with a score ≥ 13 indicating likely depression. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests, and logistic regression.

Results

Antepartum depression was more common than postpartum depression (PPD; 29% vs. 20%); 38% of women with antepartum depression also had PPD. Regression analysis revealed that, although depressed women in pregnancy were not more likely to have a dose adjustment than nondepressed women (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 0.8–4.6), depressed women in the postpartum were more likely to receive a medication change than nondepressed women (OR: 6.3, 95% CI: 2.0–20.4).

Conclusions

In a naturalistic study, more medication adjustments for depression occurred in the postpartum than in pregnancy. This may indicate that antepartum depression is undertreated.
ME‐Net: Multi‐encoder net framework for brain tumor segmentation
Authors: Zhang Wenbo , Yang Guang , Huang He , Yang Weiji , Xu Xiaomei , Liu Yongkai , Lai Xiaobo
Published: March 2021

MRI plays a vital role to evaluate brain tumor diagnosis and treatment planning. However, the manual segmentation of the MRI image is strenuous. With the development of deep learning, a large number of automatic segmentation methods have been developed, but most of them stay in 2D images, which leads to subpar performance. Aiming at segmenting 3D MRI, we propose a model for brain tumor segmentation with multiple encoders. Our model reduces the difficulty of feature extraction and greatly improves model performance. We also introduced a new loss function named “Categorical Dice,” and set different weights for different segmented regions at the same time, which solved the problem of voxel imbalance. We evaluated our approach using the online BraTS 2020 Challenge verification. Our proposed method can achieve promising results compared to the state‐of‐the‐art approaches with Dice scores of 0.70249, 0.88267, and 0.73864 for the intact tumor, tumor core, and enhancing tumor.
Changes and significance of plasma fibrinogen gamma‐chain concentration in preeclampsia patients
Authors: Zhu YuLi , Tan YunChang , Liang XiaoJun , OuYang LiangLiang , Wang YouNv , Tan LongYi , Shen Chao , Xu Wei , Hu ZhiJian , Zhou HuiXiang
Published: March 2021

Objective

To investigate the plasma fibrinogen gamma‐chain concentration in preeclampsia patients and explore its value in preeclampsia prediction and auxiliary diagnosis.

Methods

Follow‐up of pregnant women who regularly attended perinatal care at two hospitals in China was performed, and clinical data and plasma samples were collected at each examination until delivery. The gamma‐chain concentration was detected by Western blotting, and Quantity One Software was used for gamma‐chain grayscale value measurements.

Results

Forty‐two patients with preeclampsia and 42 control patients completed the follow‐up. In the control group, the gamma‐chain concentration at 32 weeks of gestation was higher than that at 20 weeks of gestation, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In the experimental group, the gamma‐chain concentration at preeclampsia diagnosis was significantly higher than that at 20 weeks of gestation (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the gamma‐chain concentration was higher at 20 weeks of gestation in the experimental group, but the difference was not statistically significant. However, at 32 weeks of gestation and at the time of diagnosis, the gamma‐chain concentration in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (p < 0.05). At 32 weeks of gestation and at the time of diagnosis, the AUCs from ROC curve analysis of plasma fibrinogen gamma‐chain concentrations were 0.64 and 0.71, respectively.

Conclusion

Plasma fibrinogen synthesis and degradation were disrupted in preeclampsia patients before and after diagnosis, and gamma‐chain concentration was significantly increased. Plasma fibrinogen gamma chain may be of some value in preeclampsia prediction and auxiliary diagnosis.
TGF‐β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway modulates octreotide antisecretory and antiproliferative effects in pituitary somatotroph tumor cells
Authors: Picech Florencia , Sosa Liliana DV. , Perez Pablo A. , Cecenarro Laura , Oms Sergio R. , Coca Hugo A. , De Battista Juan C. , Gutiérrez Silvina , Mukdsi Jorge H. , Torres Alicia I. , Petiti Juan P.
Published: March 2021

Octreotide (OCT) is used to inhibit hormone secretion and growth in somatotroph tumors, although a significant percentage of patients are resistant. It has also been tested in nonfunctioning (NF) tumors but with poor results, with these outcomes having been associated with SSTR2 levels and impaired signaling. We investigated whether OCT inhibitory effects can be improved by TGF‐β1 in functioning and nonfunctioning somatotroph tumor cells. OCT effects on hormone secretion and proliferation were analyzed in the presence of TGF‐β1 in WT and SSTR2‐overexpressing secreting GH3 and silent somatotroph tumor cells. The mechanism underlying these effects was assessed by studying SSTR and TGFβR signaling pathways mediators. In addition, we analyzed the effects of OCT/TGF‐β1 treatment on tumor growth and cell proliferation in vivo. The inhibitory effects of OCT on GH‐ and PRL‐secretion and proliferation were improved in the presence of TGF‐β1, as well as by SSTR2 overexpression. The OCT/TGF‐β1 treatment induced downregulation of pERK1/2 and pAkt, upregulation of pSmad3, and inhibition of cyclin D1. In vivo experiments showed that OCT in the presence of TGF‐β1 blocked tumor volume growth, decreased cell proliferation, and increased tumor necrosis. These results indicate that SSTR2 levels and the stimulation of TGF‐β1/TGFβR/Smad2/3 pathway are important for strengthening the antiproliferative and antisecretory effects of OCT.
Video learning strategies affecting achievement, learning approach, and lifelong learning in a flipped periodontology course
Authors: Lee Jihyun , Park Jung‐Chul , Jung Daeun , Suh Chang‐Wan , Henning Marcus A.
Published: March 2021

Objective

To explore how video learning strategies influence students’ Flipped learning (FL) achievement, deep approach to learning (DAL) and lifelong learning (LL) orientations and how DAL and LL can be promoted.

Methods

Data were collected from 65 dental students enrolled in a 21‐week clinical periodontology course. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was conducted to investigate factors and pathways affecting FL achievement, DAL, and LL.

Results

FL achievement was predicted by repeated and in‐advance video learning strategies. In‐advance, meticulous, and expanded video learning strategies directly influenced DAL, and indirectly influenced LL via DAL. LL was not affected by any of the video learning strategies but by the DAL.

Conclusion

This study implies that mere implementation of FL may not guarantee more developed DAL and enhanced LL. Redesigning a course with FL should entail revisiting and revising student assessment. LL is an inclusive approach that requires the long‐term cultivation of meaning, experience, insight, learning, and practice.
Cell differentiation and motion determine the Bacillus subtilis biofilm morphological evolution under the competitive growth
Authors: Wang Xiaoling , Zhang Duohuai , Dong Fulin , Liu Song , Zhang Jinchang , Zhao Hui
Published: March 2021

The growth discrepancy of Bacillus subtilis biofilms along different directions under the competitive growth drive the formation of anisotropic biofilm morphology directly. Two biofilms growing from two inoculating positions with different distances exhibit promoting or inhibiting growth behavior. Here we develop an optical imaging technology to observe the cell differentiation and the growth dynamics when the biofilm grows. It shows that the spatiotemporal distribution of different phenotypes affects the biofilm morphological evolution. We develop a program to calculate the velocity of cell motion within the biofilm, which is based on the feature point matching approach. We find the cell differentiation ununiformity in the neighboring region and its opposite region leads to the cell velocity difference in the competitive environment, the different cell motion further influences the biofilm morphology evolution. When biofilms grow with a long inoculating distance, there is always a gap between the them; when biofilms grow with a short inoculating distance, two biofilms gradually merge into a whole. Our work establishes a relationship between microscopic cells and macroscopic biofilm morphological which enables us to study the competitive growth process of biofilms from multiple perspectives.
Utilization of soil organic phosphorus as a strategic approach for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Sulieman Saad , Mühling Karl H.
Published: March 2021

Take home message

Soil organic phosphorus (Porg) can significantly assist in minimizing the adverse effects of chemical phosphorus fertilizers on aquatic and marine resources. Success to achieve the desired lasting transformation is primarily reliant on the drastic reduction of wasteful applications of chemical phosphorus fertilizers, thereby paving the way for proper investment of soil Porg reserves. To this end, organically‐bound phosphorus can be viewed as a cornerstone for the future development of agriculture. Thus, we consider it very timely to emphasize the suitability of soil Porg to lead the way.
Determination, dissipation dynamics, terminal residues and dietary risk assessment of thiophanate‐methyl and its metabolite carbendazim in cowpeas collected from different locations in China under field conditions
Authors: Liu Zhengyi , Chen Ye , Han Jiahua , Chen Dan , Yang Guangqian , Lan Tingting , Li Jianmin , Zhang Kankan
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Thiophanate‐methyl and its metabolite carbendazim are broad‐spectrum fungicides used on many crops. The residues of these chemicals could result in potential environmental and human health problems. Therefore, investigations of the dissipation and residue behaviors of thiophanate‐methyl and its metabolite carbendazim on cowpeas and associated dietary risk assessments are essential for the safety of agricultural products.

RESULTS

A simple analytical approach using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated for the determination of thiophanate‐methyl and carbendazim concentrations in cowpeas. Good linearity (R2 > 0.998) was obtained, and the recoveries and relative standard deviations were 80.0–104.7% and 1.4–5.2%, respectively. The dissipation rates of thiophanate‐methyl, carbendazim and total carbendazim were high (half‐lives of 1.61–2.46 days) and varied in the field cowpea samples because of the different weather conditions and planting patterns. Based on the definition of thiophanate‐methyl, the terminal residues of total carbendazim in cowpea samples were below the maximum residue limits set by Japan for other legumes. The acute and chronic risk quotients of three analytes were 0.0–27.6% in cowpea samples gathered from all terminal residue treatments, which were below 100%.

CONCLUSION

An optimized approach for detecting thiophanate‐methyl and carbendazim in cowpeas was applied for the investigation of field‐trial samples. The potential acute and chronic dietary risks of thiophanate‐methyl, carbendazim and total carbendazim to the health of Chinese consumers were low. These results could guide the safe and proper use of thiophanate‐methyl in cowpeas and offer data for the dietary risk assessment of thiophanate‐methyl in cowpeas. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Metabolic regulation mechanism of fucoidan via intestinal microecology in diseases
Authors: Sun Ting , Xue Meilan , Yang Jia , Pei Zhongqian , Zhang Nan , Qin Kunpeng , Liang Hui
Published: March 2021

The intestinal microecology is an extremely complex ecosystem consisting of gut microbiota, intestinal mucosa and the intestinal immune system. The intestinal microecology performs several important functions and is considered to be an essential ‘organ’ because it plays an important role in regulating human metabolism. Fucoidan contains a large amount of fucose and galactose residues, as well as various other neutral and acidic monosaccharides. Fucoidan particularly effects tumors, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and obesity by repairing intestinal mucosal damage and improving the intestinal microecological environment. It has been proposed that fucoidan could be used as a prebiotic agent for pharmaceutical and functional foods. In this review, we elucidate the potential mechanisms of the metabolic regulation of fucoidan with respect to the intestinal microecology of diseases. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Log ODDS (LODDS) of positive lymph nodes as a predictor of overall survival in squamous cell carcinoma of the penis
Authors: Patel Keval N. , Salunke Abhijeet , Bhatt Supreet , Sharma Mohit , Jain Abhishek , Puj Ketul , Rathod Priyank , Warikoo Vikas , Pandya Shashank J.
Published: March 2021

Objective

To evaluate the role of logarithmic ODDS (LODDS) in the number of positive lymph nodes and the number of negative lymph nodes as a prognostic metric in the squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) penis.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from 96 cases of SCC penis that underwent bilateral groin dissection between 2010 and 2015 at our institute. Lymph node density (LND) and LODDS were calculated for all the patients and classified according to American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) pN staging. Thresholds for LND (24% and 46%) and LODDS (−0.75 and 0) were established. Multivariate analysis of various cofactors was done with overall survival (OS) as a dependent factor. Three classification systems were compared using receiver operative characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

Univariate analysis showed that AJCC pN, LND, and LODDS were all significantly correlated with OS. However, only LODDS (HR, 11.185; p = .023) remained an independent prognostic factor through multivariate analysis. LODDS (log‐likelihood = 3832 vs. 3798; p < .001) had better prognostic performance than pN and better discriminatory ability than LND (AIC = 3902 vs. 3928). LODDS had better power of discrimination than LND and pN. LODDS could predict survival in lymph node yield (LNY) < 15 (p < .001).

Conclusion

LODDS is an independent predictor of OS in the SCC penis and has superior prognostic significance than the AJCC pN and LND classification systems.
In vitro human intestinal microbiota biotransformation of nobiletin using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis and background subtraction strategy
Authors: Lan Hong‐Ci , Li Shang‐Zhen , Li Kai , Liu E.‐Hu
Published: March 2021

In this study, the in vitro biotransformation of nobiletin by human intestinal microbiota, which is a bioactive polymethoxyflavone widely presented in Citrus plants, has been investigated via utilizing an anaerobic incubation protocol. The incubation samples were detected using high‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. A background subtraction strategy incorporated in Microsoft Office was employed to eliminate the interferences in medium and feces. The parent and three metabolites sinensetin, 5‐hydroxy‐6,7,3′,4′‐tetramethoxyflavone, and 5‐demethylnobiletin were detected and identified based on the characteristics of their protonated molecules. The proposed metabolic pathway revealed that nobiletin went through phase I metabolism including demethylation and demethoxylation in human intestinal microbiota. The characterization of nobiletin metabolic profile transformed by human intestinal bacteria would be helpful for understanding its efficacy and action mechanism.
Comparison of tracheal resection outcomes at a university hospital vs county hospital setting
Authors: Chow Michael S. , Haller Leonard , Chambers Tamara , Reder Lindsay , O'Dell Karla
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the role of hospital setting on outcomes in open airway surgery by comparing patients who underwent surgery (cricotracheal resection [CTR] or tracheal resection [TR]) at a publicly funded county hospital vs a private university hospital.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing CTR or TR at two institutions; a private university hospital and a publicly funded county hospital from September 2014 to September 2019. Length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, total time to discharge, minor and major complications were the primary endpoints. Significance was defined as a P‐value less than .05.

Results

There were a total of 43 patients (17 county, 26 university) who had CTR or TR during the study period. Length of stay outcomes was reported as mean length of stay ± SD. There was a significant difference in ICU stay at the county hospital (7.17 (±5.36 days) compared to the university hospital (2.52 ± 1.85 days, P < .003) and a nearly significant total length of stay difference at the county hospital (12.4 ± 9.06 days) compared to the university hospital (7.84 ± 4 days, P < .072) There was overall a low incidence of complications but slightly more in the county compared to the university population.

Conclusion

Patients who underwent open airway surgery at the county hospital were more likely to have a longer ICU stay and slight increase in complications despite having a lower ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) classification and younger age. These outcomes are multifactorial and may be related to poorer access to primary care preoperatively leading to delay in diagnosis and treatment, poorly controlled or undiagnosed medical comorbidities, and differences in hospital resources.

Level of Evidence

IV.
Effects of friction stir welding on microstructure and mechanical properties of extruded secondary aluminum 6061 alloy
Authors: Wang'ombe D.N. , Mose B.R. , Maranga S.M. , Mbuya T.O.
Published: March 2021

Experiments were carried out to determine the effects of friction stir welding on microstructure and properties of recycled Aluminum 6061 alloy, whose alloy content varied from that of primary alloy. The alloy was processed at tool speed and feed ranges of 530 rev/min–1320 rev/min and 40 mm/min–100 mm/min respectively. Microstructure examination; tensile test and Vickers microhardness evaluation were carried out. Microstructure of the alloy was in four zones including: base metal, heat affected zone, thermo‐mechanically affected zone and stirred zone. Average grain size of unprocessed material was 93 μm. Processing the alloy at 530 rev/min and 100 mm/min resulted in grains of average size 93 μm, 183 μm and 7 μm; in base metal, heat affected zone and stirred zone respectively. Tensile failure occurred in heat affected zone; that was exposed to high heat. The alloy hardness decreased to a minimum in heat affected zone, followed by a brief rise in thermo‐mechanically affected zone, to another maximum in stirred zone. Processed zone hardness was inversely proportional to tool speed and directly proportional to feed rate. Increase in the speed and decrease in feed, increased heat which deteriorated the properties.