bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical assessment of the potential for Structure‐from‐Motion photogrammetry to produce high fidelity 3D dental models
Authors: Silvester Christopher Martin , Hillson Simon
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The recent proliferation of methods of 3D model generation has enabled the development of new approaches to the analysis of dental form, function and wear. This article assesses whether Structure‐from‐motion (SfM) photogrammetry is capable of producing virtual 3D models of teeth of adequate quality for assessing fine scale surface details, such as dental macrowear patterns. Reference models were generated using a high resolution structured light scanner to assess the accuracy of the photogrammetric models generated.

Materials and Methods

Dental gypsum models of the molar teeth of human individuals from St. Michael's Litten, Chichester, Post‐medieval assemblage (n = 17) were used for 3D model generation. Photogrammetry was performed using Agisoft Metashape and reference 3D models were generated using a GOM ATOS 80 scanner. Focus stacking was explored as a method of enhancing 3D model detail. Differences between the photogrammetric and reference models were assessed using CloudCompare and the quality of the surface detail was examined quantitatively using Occlusal Fingerprint Analysis.

Results

Photogrammetric model generation was highly replicable and the tooth models produced closely approximated the overall geometry of those derived from the structured light scanner. Dental wear facet area measurements on the photogrammetric models differed significantly, however, from those derived from the structured light scanning reference models.

Discussion

Photogrammetry can create virtual dental models from which crude quantitative size and shape data can be obtained. Finer scale surface details are not accurately reproduced on SfM models using the methods outlined in the current article due to high levels of surface noise.
Prevalence of internal carotid artery stenosis in ambulatory patients presenting for non‐emergent percutaneous coronary angiogram in a single Australian centre
Authors: O'Brien Andrew J. , Donlan John , Vrazas John I.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Association between coronary artery disease (CAD) and internal carotid artery stenosis (ICAS) could prove clinically relevant. However, evidence defining this association is currently inconclusive. Our study investigates the prevalence of ICAS in non‐emergent, ambulatory patients presenting for PCA with suspected CAD in an Australian context.

Methods

Between February 2019 and June 2019, 121 consecutive participants were verbally consented and enrolled in our study. The data were analysed retrospectively. PCA and CUS were performed within 24 h of each other. Multinomial logistic regression assessed independent predictors for ICAS, with statistical significance set at P value < 0.05. Linear regression analysis correlated CAD and ICAS severity, with significance of a P‐value < 0.05. Analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS 26 software (Chicago, Illinois).

Results

The final study included 121 patients (age 73 ± 9 years, 76.9% male). ICAS on CUS was present in 55.4% of participants for PCA. CAD was an independent risk factor for ICAS on multinomial logistic regression odds ratio 3.87 (P = 0.023). CAD severity (multi vessel disease) showed significant correlation with ICAS r = 0.22 (P = 0.014) using linear regression analysis.

Conclusion

CAD is an independent predictor of ICAS, and severity of ICAS is correlated with CAD disease. However, most participants had only minor ICAS (16–49% diameter stenosis). Our findings are consistent with internationally published studies, suggesting their data are generalisable to the Australian population. Larger studies are needed to address the applicability of CUS screening in patients with advanced CAD.
Scaling Platinum‐Catalyzed Hydrogen Dissociation on Corrugated Surfaces
Authors: Auras Sabine V. , van Lent Richard , Bashlakov Dima , Piñeiros Bastidas Jessika M. , Roorda Tycho , Spierenburg Rick , Juurlink Ludo B. F.
Published: August 2020

We determine absolute reactivities for dissociation at low coordinated Pt sites. Two curved Pt(111) single‐crystal surfaces allow us to probe either straight or highly kinked step edges with molecules impinging at a low impact energy. A model extracts the average reactivity of inner and outer kink atoms, which is compared to the reactivity of straight A‐ and B‐type steps. Local surface coordination numbers do not adequately capture reactivity trends for H2 dissociation. We utilize the increase of reactivity with step density to determine the area over which a step causes increased dissociation. This step‐type specific reactive area extends beyond the step edge onto the (111) terrace. It defines the reaction cross‐section for H2 dissociation at the step, bypassing assumptions about contributions of individual types of surface atoms. Our results stress the non‐local nature of H2 interaction with a surface and provide insight into reactivity differences for nearly identical step sites.
Paramagnetic Conducting Metal–Organic Frameworks with Three‐Dimensional Structure
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Qiu Yi , Chen Zhijun , Guan Bo , Hao Xiang , Rykov Alexandre I. , Sun Yimeng , Liu Liyao , Zou Ye , Sun Junliang , Xu Wei , Zhu Daoben
Published: August 2020

3D well‐crystallized metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), M‐THBQ (M=Fe, Co, Mn, THBQ=tetrahydroxybenzoquinone), are synthesized and characterized. Their structures are determined as cubic cell in the group of Pm
from powder X‐ray diffraction data, and their properties of electronic, magnetic and spectroscopic are also investigated. They are all semiconductors, and Fe‐THBQ exhibits the air‐stable n‐type thermoelectric characteristic as its Seebeck coefficient reaches −130 μV K−1, and the electrical conductivity is 2.7×10−4 S cm−1 at 300 K. Additional, M‐THBQ are paramagnetic, and the value of Weiss constant of Fe‐THBQ is −219.37 K, indicating the existence of robust intramolecular antiferromagnetic exchanges. Meanwhile, they display strong absorption bands in the range of 220 to 1000 nm, suggest M‐THBQ could have the potential to become photoabsorbers, and Fe‐THBQ exhibits a narrow band gap of 0.63 eV according to the ultraviolet absorption edge spectrum.
A Multi‐action PtIV Conjugate with Oleate and Cinnamate Ligands Targets Human Epithelial Growth Factor Receptor HER2 in Aggressive Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Kostrhunova Hana , Zajac Juraj , Markova Lenka , Brabec Viktor , Kasparkova Jana
Published: August 2020

HER2‐positive breast cancer is an aggressive subtype that typically responds poorly to standard chemotherapy. To design an anticancer drug selective for HER2‐expressing breast cancer, a PtIV prodrug with axial oleate and cinnamate ligands was synthesized. We demonstrate its superior antiproliferative activity in monolayer and 3D spheroid models; the antiproliferative efficiency increases gradually with increasing expression of HER2. The results also suggest that the released PtII compound inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells by a DNA‐damage‐mediated mechanism. Simultaneously, the released oleic and cinnamic acid can effectively inhibit HER2 expression. To our knowledge, this is the first platinum‐based complex inhibiting HER2 expression that does not contain protein or peptide. Moreover, this PtIV prodrug is capable of overcoming the resistance of cancer stem cells (CSCs), inducing death in both CSCs and differentiated cancer cells. Thus, the results substantiate our design strategy and demonstrate the potential of this approach for the development of new, therapeutically relevant compounds.
Rational Design of a DNA‐Scaffolded High‐Affinity Binder for Langerin
Authors: Bachem Gunnar , Wamhoff Eike‐Christian , Silberreis Kim , Kim Dongyoon , Baukmann Hannes , Fuchsberger Felix , Dernedde Jens , Rademacher Christoph , Seitz Oliver
Published: August 2020

Binders of langerin could target vaccines to Langerhans cells for improved therapeutic effect. Since langerin has low affinity for monovalent glycan ligands, highly multivalent presentation has previously been key for targeting. Aiming to reduce the amount of ligand required, we rationally designed molecularly defined high‐affinity binders based on the precise display of glycomimetic ligands (Glc2NTs) on DNA‐PNA scaffolds. Rather than mimicking langerin's homotrimeric structure with a C3‐symmetric scaffold, we developed readily accessible, easy‐to‐design bivalent binders. The method considers the requirements for bridging sugar binding sites and statistical rebinding as a means to both strengthen the interactions at single binding sites and amplify the avidity enhancement provided by chelation. This gave a 1150‐fold net improvement over the affinity of the free ligand and provided a nanomolar binder (IC50=300 nM) for specific internalization by langerin‐expressing cells.
Ethylene Dehydroaromatization over Ga‐ZSM‐5 Catalysts: Nature and Role of Gallium Speciation
Authors: Zhou Yunwen , Thirumalai Hari , Smith Scott K. , Whitmire Kenton H. , Liu Jing , Frenkel Anatoly I. , Grabow Lars C. , Rimer Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2020

Bifunctional catalysis in zeolites possessing both Brønsted and Lewis acid sites offers unique opportunities to tailor shape selectivity and enhance catalyst performance. Here, we examine the impact of framework and extra‐framework gallium species on enriched aromatics production in zeolite ZSM‐5. We compare three distinct methods of preparing Ga‐ZSM‐5 and reveal direct (single step) synthesis leads to optimal catalysts compared to post‐synthesis methods. Using a combination of state‐of‐the‐art characterization, catalyst testing, and density functional theory calculations, we show that Ga Lewis acid sites strongly favor aromatization. Our findings also suggest Ga(framework)–Ga(extra‐framework) pairings, which can only be achieved in materials prepared by direct synthesis, are the most energetically favorable sites for reaction pathways leading to aromatics. Calculated acid site exchange energies between extra‐framework Ga at framework sites comprised of either Al or Ga reveal a site‐specific preference for stabilizing Lewis acids, which is qualitatively consistent with experimental measurements. These findings indicate the possibility of tailoring Lewis acid siting by the placement of Ga heteroatoms at distinct tetrahedral sites in the zeolite framework, which can have a marked impact on catalyst performance relative to conventional H‐ZSM‐5.
Visible‐Light Photoredox‐Catalyzed Remote Difunctionalizing Carboxylation of Unactivated Alkenes with CO2
Authors: Song Lei , Fu Dong‐Min , Chen Liang , Jiang Yuan‐Xu , Ye Jian‐Heng , Zhu Lei , Lan Yu , Fu Qiang , Yu Da‐Gang
Published: August 2020

Remote difunctionalization of unactivated alkenes is challenging but a highly attractive tactic to install two functional groups across long distances. Reported herein is the first remote difunctionalization of alkenes with CO2. This visible‐light photoredox catalysis strategy provides a facile method to synthesize a series of carboxylic acids bearing valuable fluorine‐ or phosphorus‐containing functional groups. Moreover, this versatile protocol shows mild reaction conditions, broad substrate scope, and good functional‐group tolerance. Based on DFT calculations, a radical adds to an unactivated alkene to smoothly form a new carbon radical, followed by a 1,5‐hydrogen atom‐transfer process, the rate‐limiting step, generating a more stable benzylic radical. The reduction of the benzylic radicals by an IrIIspecies generates the corresponding benzylic carbanions as the key intermediates, which further undergo nucleophilic attack with CO2to generate carboxylates.
The Biosynthetic Gene Cluster for Sestermobaraenes—Discovery of a Geranylfarnesyl Diphosphate Synthase and a Multiproduct Sesterterpene Synthase from Streptomyces mobaraensis
Authors: Hou Anwei , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: August 2020

A biosynthetic gene cluster from Streptomyces mobaraensis encoding the first cases of a bacterial geranylfarnesyl diphosphate synthase and a type I sesterterpene synthase was identified. The structures of seven sesterterpenes produced by these enzymes were elucidated, including their absolute configurations. The enzyme mechanism of the sesterterpene synthase was investigated by extensive isotope labeling experiments.
Electrospinning of PLA and PLA/POSS nanofibers: Use of Taguchi optimization for process parameters
Authors: Meyva‐Zeybek Yelda , Kaynak Cevdet
Published: August 2020

It is known that electrospinning is the most practical technique to obtain unique nanofibrous structures, such as neat PLA (polylactide) and PLA filled with POSS (Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane) particles. On the other hand, due to the so many different process parameters to consider, production of these fibers are extremely difficult and time consuming. That is, use of a certain statistical optimization technique in the design of experiments would be necessary. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to determine the optimum electrospinning parameters by applying the Taguchi technique first to neat PLA and then to reveal the applicability of these parameters for the electrospinning of PLA/POSS nanofibers. It was observed that instead of conducting 81 experiments to determine the most significant four optimum process parameters for PLA, use of Taguchi L9 orthogonal array experiment matrix, that is, conducting only nine experiments, reduced time, labor and material consumption considerably. For the smallest electrospun PLA fiber diameter, the optimum parameters determined were; “PLA solution concentration” of 8% w/v, “solution feeding rate” of 1.8 mL/h, “needle‐to‐collector distance” of 18 cm, and “applied voltage” of 15 kV. Moreover, it was generally concluded that these same parameters could be also used for the electrospinning of PLA/POSS nanofibers after addition of only 3 wt% KCl salt into the polymer solution.
High‐flux PVDF/PVP nanocomposite ultrafiltration membrane incorporated with graphene oxide nanoribbones with improved antifouling properties
Authors: Tofighy Maryam Ahmadzadeh , Mohammadi Toraj , Sadeghi Mohammad Hadi
Published: August 2020

A novel polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanocomposite membrane containing graphene oxide nanoribbones (GONRs) as a new nanofiller and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as pore former agent was prepared via phase inversion method. GONRs were prepared by oxidative unzipping of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) via chemical approach. Chemical vapor deposition method was used to synthesis MWCNTs. The effects of adding GONRs and PVP into the casting solution on morphology, hydrophilicity and pure water flux (PWF) of the prepared nanocomposite membranes were explored. Antifouling experiments were also performed. It was found that compared to the neat PVDF membrane, PWF of the PVDF/PVP, PVDF/(0.5GONRs) and PVDF/(0.5GONRs)/PVP membranes were improved 80%, 44.9%, and 241.6%, respectively. The obtained results showed that GONRs and PVP exhibit synergistic effects in controlling the membrane properties. This work shows that GONRs can be suitable as nanofiller for preparation of high performance PVDF ultrafiltration membranes with improved antifouling properties.
Common hippopotamus in Nigeria: New census data and literature review confirm the conservation importance of sites outside protected areas
Authors: Baker Lynne R. , Che Jennifer , Teneke Vastinah N. , Kadala Edward , Uba Mikailu S. , Geoffrey Nachamanda , Haskainu Calvin
Published: August 2020

Once abundant across Africa, the common hippopotamus is threatened owing to habitat degradation and loss, hunting, and negative human–wildlife interactions. West African populations are notably small and fragmented and therefore at greatest risk.

In Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, the IUCN estimates that only 100 hippos remain. They occur in protected areas, such as national parks and game reserves, and outside protected areas in estuarine habitats, inland rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. However, the status of hippos in most sites is poorly known. Reliable data are needed to better ascertain the status of this species in Nigeria.

Over five days in December 2018 and May 2019, motorized boats were used to conduct a census of the hippo population in Kiri Dam reservoir, a large‐dam reservoir along the Gongola River, a major tributary of the Benue River, in north‐eastern Nigeria. These findings were compared with data on hippo abundance from several sites across Nigeria and the Benue River basin in North Cameroon.

A minimum of 56 hippos (51 adults and 5 calves) were recorded, predominantly in the transitional zone of the reservoir. Based on available data, hippos in Kiri reservoir currently represent the largest recorded population in Nigeria, exceeding individual populations in official protected areas.

Research and conservation efforts for hippos in Nigeria should focus on assessing their status and improving protection in key sites and increasing connectivity among populations. Special attention should be paid to populations within the Benue River basin, which is emerging as critical for hippopotamus conservation in west‐central Africa.
A Simple and Strong Electron‐Deficient 5,6‐Dicyano[2,1,3]benzothiadiazole‐Cored Donor‐Acceptor‐Donor Compound for Efficient Near Infrared Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Kumsampao Jakkapan , Chaiwai Chaiyon , Chasing Pongsakorn , Chawanpunyawat Thanyarat , Namuangruk Supawadee , Sudyoadsuk Taweesak , Promarak Vinich
Published: August 2020

Despite the success of thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) materials in steering the next generation of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), effective near infrared (NIR) TADF emitters are still very rare. Here, we present a simple and extremely high electron‐deficient compound, 5,6‐dicyano[2,1,3]benzothiadiazole (CNBz), as a strong electron‐accepting unit to develop a sufficiently strong donor‐acceptor (D−A) interaction for NIR emission. End‐capping with the electron‐donating triphenylamine (TPA) unit created an effective D−A−D type system, giving rise to an efficient NIR TADF emissive molecule (λem=750 nm) with a very small ΔEST of 0.06 eV. The electroluminescent device using this NIR TADF emitter exhibited an excellent performance with a high maximum radiance of 10020 mW Sr−1 m−2, a maximum EQE of 6.57% and a peak wavelength of 712 nm.
Iterative Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐coupling/Bromo‐desilylation Reaction Sequences for the Assembly of Chemically Well‐defined, Acyclic Oligopyrrole/Benzenoid Hybrids Embodying Mixed Modes of Connectivity
Authors: Lee BoRa , Willis Anthony C. , Ward Jas S. , Smith Warren T. , Lan Ping , Banwell Martin G.
Published: August 2020

Syntheses of a range of chemically well‐defined oligopyrrole/benzenoid hybrids are described using tandem Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling/bromo‐desilyation reaction sequences for linking borylated pyrroles, halogenated pyrroles and/or dibromobenzenes to one another. By such means, including iterative variants, a range of all α‐linked, all β‐linked oligopyrroles as well as certain combinations thereof have been assembled, some of them for the first time. The conductivities of iodine‐treated thin films formed from certain such systems have been determined.
Synthesis of Porphyrinquinone and Doubly‐Fused Diporphyrin Quinone Through Oxidation of Diarylporphyrins Using a Hypervalent Iodine Compound
Authors: Yamashita Ken‐ichi , Hirano Daisuke , Fujimaki Keisuke , Sugiura Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2020

Treatment of a meso‐diarylporphyrin with PhI(OAc)2 in the presence of BF3 ⋅ OEt2 and propionic acid affords the corresponding porphyrinquinone in a high yield (91%). A novel quinone derived from meso‐meso β–β doubly‐fused diporphyrin was obtained as the sole byproduct (16% yield), which exhibits strong panchromatic absorption between 300 and 1000 nm. It has a low HOMO‐LUMO gap owing to expanded and low‐symmetry π‐planes.
Approximate and trajectory controllability of fractional stochastic differential equation with non‐instantaneous impulses and Poisson jumps
Authors: Dhayal Rajesh , Malik Muslim , Abbas Syed
Published: August 2020

The problem of approximate controllability is investigated in this paper for a class of fractional stochastic differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion with non‐instantaneous impulses and Poisson jumps. The results are obtained by employing the η‐resolvent family and Krasnoselskii's fixed point theorem. Further, we derive the trajectory controllability for the proposed stochastic control system. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the obtained theory.
How Much Is It Worth? An Overview of Valuing Water Utilities
Authors: Mastracchio John , McCartney Andy , Fedder Toby , Bui Ann , King Philip , Lane Mike
Published: August 2020

Key Takeaways

Several situations for water utilities call for valuation of the water system, such as consolidation, sale, forming a new entity, and eminent domain.

Valuing water utilities requires drawing upon well‐established standard valuation concepts and general approaches.

Because the water sector is subject to numerous and complex regulations, valuing water utilities entails many considerations and requires water sector and business valuation expertise.
Identify Alternatives to Improve Utility Performance
Authors: Tangorra Philip A.
Published: August 2020

Key Takeaways

Periodic critical reviews are valuable to all aspects of water utility operations to identify top needs such as reducing risk, complying with regulations, and recruiting and retaining staff.

Utilities must be prepared for future challenges and can benefit by evaluating alternative solutions.

Communication across all business levels and locations is essential for a water utility's success.
Vergleichende Untersuchung von VOC‐Sensoren
Authors: Bruns Alfred , Knissel Jens , Schmidt Ralf‐Gunther
Published: August 2020

In dem vorliegenden Beitrag wird die Anwendung von VOC‐Sensoren zur luftqualitätsgeführten Volumenstromregelung bei Dunstabzugshauben untersucht. Bei Koch‐ und Garprozessen müssen die VOC‐Sensoren hohe Verunreinigungen sowie schnelle und teilweise sprunghafte Signaländerungen detektieren. Untersucht werden fünf unterschiedliche VOC‐Sensoren von vier Herstellern. Durch Messungen werden die spezifischen Eigenschaften der VOC‐Sensoren analysiert und untereinander verglichen. Die durchgeführten Messungen zeigen, dass ein Vergleich der absoluten Sensorsignale nicht zielführend ist. Werden die Messsignale der einzelnen VOC‐Sensoren als Prozentwerte bezogen auf die Differenz von maximalem und minimalem Messwert einer Zeitreihe dargestellt (normiert), weisen vier der fünf Sensoren bei gleicher Verunreinigungslast ähnliche Signalverläufe auf. Zwei VOC‐Sensoren werden detailliert untersucht und zeigen einen plausiblen Signalverlauf bei Koch und Bratvorgängen, aber auch in einem Vorlesungssaal und in einem Büro.
In‐situ‐Messung des Wasseraufnahmeverhaltens von Fassaden
Authors: Stelzmann Mario , Möller Ulrich , Grunewald John
Published: August 2020

Das Wasseraufnahmeverhalten von Fassadenkonstruktionen historischer Gebäude spielt für deren Dauerhaftigkeit eine wesentliche Rolle. Für die Bestimmung des Wasseraufnahmeverhaltens von Fassadenbaustoffen können nach dem Stand der Technik lokal Proben entnommen und im Labor untersucht werden. Im Hinblick auf den Denkmalschutz oder den Einfluss von Mörtelfugen bei Sichtmauerwerk ist diese Vorgehensweise nicht immer sinnvoll. In‐situ‐Messgeräte arbeiten zerstörungsfrei und direkt am Gebäude, liefern jedoch häufig nur beschränkt aussagekräftige Ergebnisse. Dieser Aufsatz enthält Teile der Ergebnisse der Dissertationsschrift Stelzmann [1] und Ansätze für die Abschätzung verschiedener Effekte, die In‐situ‐Prüfungen zum Wasseraufnahmeverhalten beeinflussen können. Hierzu zählen die Korrektur dreidimensionalen Saugens im Bereich des Randes der Benetzungsfläche, abweichende Wassertemperaturen oder vorhandene Startfeuchtegehalte der Fassadenbaustoffe. Nach physikalischer Herleitung wurden drei Fassadenkonstruktionen in einer umfangreichen Studie mit dem in [1] entwickelten Wasseraufnahmemessgerät insgesamt 274 In‐situ‐Einzelprüfungen untersucht. Die statistische Auswertung der Daten gibt einen Eindruck der jeweiligen Anteile der verschiedenen Effekte an der Messunsicherheit bei In‐situ‐Messungen.
Einsatz und Auswirkung von Vegetation bei autochthonen Bauten
Authors: Krause Pia , Leistner Philip , Mehra Schew‐Ram
Published: August 2020

In dieser Studie wird auf Grundlage einer Literaturanalyse der aktuelle Forschungsstand zu autochthonen Bauten und deren Beitrag zur klimagerechten Gestaltung der gebauten Umwelt auf globaler sowie regionaler Ebene ausgewertet und zusammengefasst. Dabei wird insbesondere der Einsatz und die Auswirkung von Vegetation im Außenraum, zur Anpassung an das Klima, analysiert. Laut diversen Studien zeichnen sich autochthone Bauten nicht nur durch einen schonenden Umgang mit Ressourcen aus, sondern tragen durch die sensible Eingliederung in den geographischen und topographischen Kontext auch einer bioklimatischen Gestaltungsdoktrin Rechnung. Zusätzlich werden anhand der Literaturauswertung bestehende Forschungslücken hinsichtlich der Themenstellung, insbesondere für den regionalen Kontext, identifiziert und formuliert. Die wissenschaftliche Analyse autochthoner Bauten ist im deutschen Raum noch unterrepräsentiert und erfordert weitere Untersuchungen.
Global trends in the incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer from 1990 to 2017
Authors: Fan Jiahui , Liu Zhenqiu , Mao Xianhua , Tong Xin , Zhang Tiejun , Suo Chen , Chen Xingdong
Published: August 2020

Background

The incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer are high, with 5.90 new cases and 5.48 deaths per 100 000 people worldwide in 2017. The prognosis of esophageal cancer is poor, with an overall 5‐year survival rate of less than 20%. Esophageal cancer in different geographical locations has different etiologies, and the incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer continue to rise in some regions.

Methods

We collected incidence and mortality data by age and gender for 195 countries and territories from 1990 to 2017 in the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. And we used these data to calculate the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) to quantify trends in morbidity and mortality. Then we analyzed the gender‐ and age‐specific incidence and mortality in esophageal cancer to targeted high‐risk populations. Finally, we analyzed the correlation between the age‐standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and both the EAPC and social‐demographic index (SDI), and we calculated the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

We found that Malawi, East Asia, and high‐middle SDI regions had the highest age‐standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and ASMR, and the ASIR and ASMR in western Sub‐Saharan Africa showed an upward trend. Our study also showed that the incidence and mortality in esophageal cancer were highest in men and in the 70+ years age group, and they presented a decreasing trend in most regions, but the 15‐49 years age groups in Australasia, Caribbean, and Oceania and the 70+ years age group in High‐Income North America, Oceania and high‐SDI regions presented an increasing trend. There were significant negative associations between ASMR at baseline and EAPC and between ASMR and SDI in 2017.

Conclusion

By analyzing the global distribution of incidence and mortality in esophageal cancer, trends over time, and gender and age specificity, we can understand the heterogeneity of its global trends. This heterogeneity can help us to identify high‐risk groupsand to provide clues for the exploration of the etiology and early prevention of the disease.
Intestinal microbiota regulates anti‐tumor effect of disulfiram combined with Cu2+ in a mice model
Authors: Hu Hong , Cui Lanyue , Lu Jiachen , Wei Kehong , Wei Jing , Li Shaobo , Zou Changwei , Chen Tingtao
Published: August 2020

Background

A growing number of studies show that intestinal microbiota affect the therapeutic effects of antineoplastic agents. Disulfiram (tetraethylthiuram disulfide, DSF) is an old alcohol‐aversion drug that has been shown to be effective against various types of cancers in preclinical studies, while few studies are carried out to explore its mechanism.

Methods

A mice model of melanoma xenograft was generated and treated with antibiotics (Abx), disulfiram/copper (DSF/Cu2+), Abx + DSF/Cu2+, and the tumor volume and survival curve were observed. Hematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining and western blotting (WB) were used to observe the protein changes related to cell morphology, inflammation, and apoptosis in tumor tissues. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to detect the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in tumors. High‐throughput sequencing was used to detect the effects of Abx and DSF/Cu2+ on intestinal microbiota.

Results

The DSF/Cu2+ and Abx + DSF/Cu2+ markedly delayed tumor progression and prolonged mice survival, of which the combination of Abx and DSF/Cu2+ possessed the best anti‐tumor effect. Abx + DSF/Cu2+ significantly reduced the pro‐inflammatory cytokines Interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in tumors, and significantly reduced the expression of phosphorylated‐protein kinase B (p‐AKT)/protein kinase B (AKT), toll‐like receptors 4 (TLR‐4), and phosphorylated‐ nuclear factor kappa‐B (p‐NFκB)/NFκB in tumors. Moreover our high‐throughput sequencing first indicated that the sound anti‐cancer effect of Abx + DSF/Cu2+ had a strong connection with the increased abundance of intestinal beneficial bacteria Akkermansia, as well as the reduced abundance of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria Campylobacterales, Helicobacteraceae, and Coriobacteriaceae.

Conclusions

The disturbed intestinal microbiota (increased abundance of opportunistic pathogens Campylobacterales, Helicobacteraceae, and Coriobacteriaceae) and the over‐activated TLR4/NF‐κB signaling pathway in tumor tissues deteriorated the cancer development, and the using of antibiotics is benefit to enhance the therapeutic effect of DSF on tumors via inhibiting the growth of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria.
Spontaneous regression of squamous cell carcinoma in the setting of dental infection and needle biopsy
Authors: Divakar Prashanthi , Khan Muhammad J. , Polacco Marc , Kerr Darcy A. , Paydarfar Joseph A.
Published: August 2020

To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of spontaneous regression of squamous cell carcinoma within a lymph node. We speculate that prior dental infection, fever, and biopsy incited an antitumor immune reaction.
Fe3O4@C Nanotubes Grown on Carbon Fabric as a Free‐Standing Anode for High‐Performance Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xu Xijun , Shen Jiadong , Li Fangkun , Wang Zhuosen , Zhang Dechao , Zuo Shiyong , Liu Jun
Published: August 2020

Recently, Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) have attracted extensive attention owing to their wide applications in portable and flexible electronic devices. Such a huge market for LIBs has caused an ever‐increasing demand for excellent mechanical flexibility, outstanding cycling life, and electrodes with superior rate capability. Herein, an anode of self‐supported Fe3O4@C nanotubes grown on carbon fabric cloth (CFC) is designed rationally and fabricated through an in situ etching and deposition route combined with an annealing process. These carbon‐coated nanotube structured Fe3O4 arrays with large surface area and enough void space can not only moderate the volume variation during repeated Li+ insertion/extraction, but also facilitate Li+/electrons transportation and electrolyte penetration. This novel structure endows the Fe3O4@C nanotube arrays stable cycle performance (a large reversible capacity of 900 mA h g−1 up to 100 cycles at 0.5 A g−1) and outstanding rate capability (reversible capacities of 1030, 985, 908, and 755 mA h g−1 at 0.15, 0.3, 0.75, and 1.5 A g−1, respectively). Fe3O4@C nanotube arrays still achieve a capacity of 665 mA h g−1 after 50 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 in Fe3O4@C//LiCoO2 full cells.
Hybridorubrins A–D: Azaphilone Heterodimers from Stromata of Hypoxylon fragiforme and Insights into the Biosynthetic Machinery for Azaphilone Diversification
Authors: Becker Kevin , Pfütze Sebastian , Kuhnert Eric , Cox Russell J. , Stadler Marc , Surup Frank
Published: August 2020

The diversity of azaphilones in stromatal extracts of the fungus Hypoxylon fragiforme was investigated and linked to their biosynthetic machineries by using bioinformatics. Nineteen azaphilone‐type compounds were isolated and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, and their absolute stereoconfigurations were assigned by using Mosher ester analysis and electronic circular dichroism spectroscopy. Four unprecedented bis‐azaphilones, named hybridorubrins A–D, were elucidated, in addition to new fragirubrins F and G and various known mitorubrin derivatives. Only the hybridorubrins, which are composed of mitorubrin and fragirubrin moieties, exhibited strong inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation. Analysis of the genome of H. fragiforme revealed the presence of two separate biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) hfaza1 and hfaza2 responsible for azaphilone formation. While the hfaza1 BGC likely encodes the assembly of the backbone and addition of fatty acid moieties to yield the (R)‐configured series of fragirubrins, the hfaza2 BGC contains the necessary genes to synthesise the widely distributed (S)‐mitorubrins. This study is the first example of two distant cross‐acting fungal BGCs collaborating to produce two families of azaphilones and bis‐azaphilones derived therefrom.
Hydrophilic Microporous Polymer Membranes: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Zuo Peipei , Zhou Jiahui , Yang Zhengjin , Xu Tongwen
Published: August 2020

Ion and water transfer in subnanometer‐sized confined channels of hydrophilic microporous polymer membranes show enormous potential in tackling the ubiquitous trade‐off between permeability and selectivity for energy and environment‐related membrane technologies. To this end, a variety of hydrophilic polymers of intrinsic microporosity (HPIMs) have been developed. Herein, the synthetic strategies toward HPIMs are summarized, including post‐synthetic modification of polymers to introduce polar groups (e. g., amines, hydroxy groups, carboxylic acids, tetrazoles) or charged moieties (e. g., quaternary ammonium salts, sulfonic acids), and the polymerization of hydrophilic monomers. The advantages of HPIM membranes over others when employed in energy conversion and storage, acid gas capture and separation, ionic diodes, and ultrafiltration, are highlighted.
Corporate social responsibility and employee performance: The mediating role of employee engagement in the manufacturing sector of Pakistan
Authors: Ali Hafiz Yasir , Asrar‐ul‐Haq Muhammad , Amin Shaheera , Noor Sadaf , Haris‐ul‐Mahasbi Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad Kashif
Published: August 2020

Past research proposes that corporate social responsibility (CSR) affects employees' behaviors and attitude. However, the empirical evidence of this claim is limited particularly in the context of eastern developing economies like Pakistan. So, the study in hand is an effort to extend the existing CSR literature by investigating the impact of CSR on employee performance using the lens of social identity theory. Additionally, the study also investigates the intervening role of employee engagement (EE) in the above‐mentioned association. To test the proposed model, data were collected from employees of the manufacturing sector in two waves with an interval of 4 weeks. The findings suggest that CSR has a significant impact on employees' performance and engagement. Findings also confirm that EE partially mediates the association of CSR and employee performance. The study concludes with its theoretical and practical implications and directions for future researchers.
Downstream Processing Strategies for Lignin‐First Biorefinery
Authors: Sun Zhuohua , Cheng Jinling , Wang Dingsheng , Yuan Tong‐Qi , Song Guoyong , Barta Katalin
Published: August 2020

The lignin‐first strategy has emerged as one of the most powerful approaches for generating novel platform chemicals from lignin by efficient depolymerization of native lignin. Because of the emergence of this novel depolymerization method and the definition of viable platform chemicals, future focus will soon shift towards innovative downstream processing strategies. Very recently, many interesting approaches have emerged that describe the production of valuable products across the whole value chain, including bulk and fine chemical building blocks, and several concrete examples have been developed for the production of polymers, pharmaceutically relevant compounds, or fuels. This Minireview provides an overview of these recent advances. After a short summary of catalytic systems for obtaining aromatic monomers, a comprehensive discussion on their separation and applications is given. This Minireview will fill the gap in biorefinery between deriving high yields of lignin monomers and tapping into their potential for making valuable consumer products.
Population‐wide shifts in herbivore resistance strategies over succession
Authors: Kalske A. , Kessler A.
Published: August 2020

As a strategic cost‐saving alternative to constitutive resistance, induction of resistance against herbivores in plants can be especially beneficial when enemies are scarce or variable in abundance. Although probably describing the two ends of a continuum, constitutive and induced resistance strategies have long been observed to trade off within species. Examining these traits among populations along a successional gradient can help explain how temporally variable environments can maintain genetic variation and how ecosystem processes are affected by shifting plant resistance trait expression over time. Here we leverage large experimental plots that represent a chronosequence of succession up to 15 yr in combination with common garden experiments to examine changes in the selective environment and genetic differences in tall goldenrod’s (Solidago altissima) constitutive and induced resistance. We show that resistance against a specialist herbivore Trirhabda virgata was inducible in the plants originating from midsuccession, which coincides with the largest loads of herbivores. The flavonoid compound content of the leaves varied with successional stage of the population of origin, which is indicative of constitutive differences in secondary metabolite production. Finally, there was a clear trade‐off between constitutive and induced resistance. Our study indicates that selection for resistance traits within a population can be highly variable over time and likely result in genetically determined shifts of resistance strategies over relatively short time periods via genotype sorting.
Prediction of haemodynamics after interatrial shunt for heart failure using the generalized circulatory equilibrium
Authors: Nishikawa Takuya , Saku Keita , Uike Kiyoshi , Uemura Kazunori , Sunagawa Genya , Tohyama Takeshi , Yoshida Keimei , Kishi Takuya , Sunagawa Kenji , Tsutsui Hiroyuki
Published: August 2020

Aims

Interatrial shunting (IAS) reduces left atrial pressure in patients with heart failure. Several clinical trials reported that IAS improved the New York Heart Association score and exercise capacity. However, its effects on haemodynamics vary depending on shunt size, cardiovascular properties, and stressed blood volume. To maximize the benefit of IAS, quantitative prediction of haemodynamics under IAS in individual patients is essential. The generalized circulatory equilibrium framework determines circulatory equilibrium as the intersection of the cardiac output curve and the venous return surface. By incorporating IAS into the framework, we predict the impact of IAS on haemodynamics.

Methods and results

In seven mongrel dogs, we ligated the left anterior descending artery and created impaired cardiac function with elevated left atrial pressure (baseline: 7.8 ± 1.0 vs. impaired: 11.9 ± 3.2 mmHg). We established extracorporeal left‐to‐right atrial shunting with a centrifugal pump. After recording pre‐IAS haemodynamics, we changed IAS flow stepwise to various levels and measured haemodynamics under IAS. To predict the impact of IAS on haemodynamics, we modelled the fluid mechanics of IAS by Newton's second law and incorporated IAS into the generalized circulatory equilibrium framework. Using pre‐IAS haemodynamic data obtained from the dogs, we predicted the impact of IAS flow on haemodynamics under IAS condition using a set of equations. We compared the predicted haemodynamic data with those measured. The predicted pulmonary flow [r2 = 0.88, root mean squared error (RMSE) 11.4 mL/min/kg, P < 0.001), systemic flow (r2 = 0.92, RMSE 11.2 mL/min/kg, P < 0.001), right atrial pressure (r2 = 0.92, RMSE 0.71 mmHg, P < 0.001), and left atrial pressure (r2 = 0.83, RMSE 0.95 mmHg, P < 0.001) matched well with those measured under normal and impaired cardiac function. Using this framework, we further performed a simulation study to examine the haemodynamic benefit of IAS in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. We simulated the IAS haemodynamics under volume loading and exercise conditions. Volume loading and exercise markedly increased left atrial pressure. IAS size‐dependently attenuated the increase in left atrial pressure in both volume loading and exercise. These results indicate that IAS improves volume and exercise intolerance.

Conclusions

The framework developed in this study quantitatively predicts the haemodynamic impact of IAS. Simulation study elucidates how IAS improve haemodynamics under volume loading and exercise conditions. Quantitative prediction of IAS haemodynamics would contribute to maximizing the benefit of IAS in patients with heart failure.
Electrochemical Investigation of Heterogeneous Affinity Behaviour of Methylene Blue and G‐quadruplex
Authors: Zhao Ling‐Li , Zhang Xin‐Xiang , Zhou Ying‐Lin
Published: August 2020

The heterogeneous binding behaviour between methylene blue (MB) and G‐quadruplex, one kind of single‐stranded (ss) DNA with specific guanine tetrads, has been thoroughly studied via electrochemical techniques. Positively charged MB interacted electrostatically with both G‐quadruplex and normal ssDNA but the binding and dissociation kinetics between them were significantly different. Compared with ssDNA, G‐quadruplex had a slower binding rate constant and dissociation rate constant with MB since there existed other different binding mechanisms between G‐quadruplex and MB besides electrostatic interaction. This work might provide valuable information in the design and development of DNA sensors.
Lifetime patterns of comorbidity in eating disorders: An approach using sequence analysis
Authors: Van Alsten Sarah C. , Duncan Alexis E.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Eating disorders (EDs) have high rates of psychiatric comorbidity. This study aimed to characterize longitudinal patterns of comorbidities in adults with EDs.

Methods

Sequence analysis and hierarchical clustering were applied to ages of onset and recency for select eating, substance, mood, and anxiety disorders from the 479 participants in the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology Surveys with lifetime DSM‐IV bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, or anorexia nervosa. External validators were compared across clusters using chi‐square tests.

Results

Five clusters were identified among individuals with any lifetime ED based on longitudinal sequence of psychiatric disorder onset and remission, characterized as: (1) multi‐comorbid with early onset of comorbid disorder (46%); (2) moderate preeminent anxiety with moderate comorbidity and low ED persistence (20%); (3) late ED onset with low comorbidity (15%); (4) early onset, persistent ED with low comorbidity (14%); and (5) chronic, early onset depression (5%). Clusters were well differentiated by significant differences in age, body mass index, race, and psychiatric indicators.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a new method to assess clustering of comorbidity among individuals with lifetime EDs. Having a psychiatric diagnosis prior to an ED was associated with greater psychopathology and illness duration. Information on timing of diagnoses may allow for more refined comorbidity classification.
On inquiry in futures and foresight science
Authors: Rowland Nicholas J. , Spaniol Matthew J.
Published: August 2020

Two patterns of inquiry in futures and foresight science have been called into question, namely, the conflict of interest inherent in the practice of self‐observation among facilitators and the inadequacy of retrospective scientific accounts by proponents of their own methods. This is especially concerning as the broader management literature, in addition to numerous disciplinary areas, make the “practice turn,” which implies greater emphasis on enactment in practice, and therefore, greater scrutiny of the methods used to evaluate, examine, and explore those practices. In this piece, we reflect on the practice of inquiry in futures and foresight science. We fully and unambiguously acknowledge that there are many barriers to the empirical study, direct observation, and scholarly communication of futures and foresight practices. We propose a collaborative “facilitator‐observer” model of inquiry to obviate predictable critiques of futures research. One author facilitates; the other author observes. The upshot of this examination is insight associated with observing the enactment of ontology “in action” and a novel framework for the collaborative display of results that usefully differentiates the facilitator from the observer as authors. In the end, after sharing our inquiry practices, we recommend more analytical energy be devoted to reflecting on the conduct of science in futures and foresight in the widest sense. After all, our collective credibility is on the line in scientific circles beyond the close‐knit futures community.