bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Transition‐Metal Oxide and Nitride@N‐Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide Electrodes for High‐Performance, Flexible, and All‐Solid‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Jiang Lili , Mei Xiaotong , Gan Donglin , Song Shaowei , Lei Xiaobo , Cai Fanggong , Wang Yaqin , Zhang Qinyong , Lu Xiong , Ren Zhifeng
Published: January 2021

Nanoscale composites for high‐performance electrodes employed in flexible, all‐solid‐state supercapacitors are being developed. A series of binder‐free composites, each consisting of a transition bimetal oxide, a metal oxide, and a metal nitride grown on N‐doped reduced graphene oxide (rGO)‐wrapped nickel foam are obtained by using a universal strategy. Three different transition metals, Co, Mo, and Fe, are separately compounded with nickel ions, which originate from the nickel foam, to form three composites, NiCoO2@Co3O4@Co2N, NiMoO4@MoO3@Mo2N, and NiFe2O4@Fe3O4@Fe2N, respectively. These as‐prepared active materials have similar regular variation patterns in their properties, including better conductivity and battery‐mimicking pseudocapacitance, which result in their high whole‐electrode capacitance performance [2598.3 F g−1 (39.85 F cm−2), 3472.6 F g−1 (41.43 F cm−2) and 1907.5 F g−1 (3.41 F cm−2) for the composites incorporating Co, Mo, and Fe, respectively]. The as‐assembled flexible, all‐solid‐state NiCoO2@Co3O4@Co2N//KOH/PVA//NiCoO2@Co3O4@Co2N device can be easily bent and exhibits high energy density and power density of 92.8 Wh kg−1 and 1670.4 W kg−1, respectively. The universality of this design strategy could allow it to be employed in producing hybrid materials for high‐performance energy‐storage devices.
Fluorides of Silver Under Large Compression**
Authors: Kurzydłowski Dominik , Derzsi Mariana , Zurek Eva , Grochala Wojciech
Published: January 2021

The silver‐fluorine phase diagram has been scrutinized as a function of external pressure using theoretical methods. Our results indicate that two novel stoichiometries containing Ag+ and Ag2+ cations (Ag3F4 and Ag2F3) are thermodynamically stable at ambient and low pressure. Both are computed to be magnetic semiconductors under ambient pressure conditions. For Ag2F5, containing both Ag2+ and Ag3+, we find that strong 1D antiferromagnetic coupling is retained throughout the pressure‐induced phase transition sequence up to 65 GPa. Our calculations show that throughout the entire pressure range of their stability the mixed‐valence fluorides preserve a finite band gap at the Fermi level. We also confirm the possibility of synthesizing AgF4 as a paramagnetic compound at high pressure. Our results indicate that this compound is metallic in its thermodynamic stability region. Finally, we present general considerations on the thermodynamic stability of mixed‐valence compounds of silver at high pressure.
Metalloradical Cations and Dications Based on Divinyldiphosphene and Divinyldiarsene Ligands
Authors: Sharma Mahendra K. , Rottschäfer Dennis , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Danés Sergi , Andrada Diego M. , van Gastel Maurice , Hinz Alexander , Ghadwal Rajendra S.
Published: January 2021

Metalloradicals are key species in synthesis, catalysis, and bioinorganic chemistry. Herein, two iron radical cation complexes (3‐E)GaCl4 [(3‐E).+ = [{(IPr)C(Ph)E}2Fe(CO)3].+, E = P or As; IPr = C{(NDipp)CH}2, Dipp = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3] are reported as crystalline solids. Treatment of the divinyldipnictenes {(IPr)C(Ph)E}2 (1‐E) with Fe2(CO)9 affords [{(IPr)C(Ph)E}2Fe(CO)3] (2‐E), in which 1‐E binds to the Fe atom in an allylic (η3‐EECvinyl) fashion and functions as a 4e donor ligand. Complexes 2‐E undergo 1e oxidation with GaCl3 to yield (3‐E)GaCl4. Spin density analysis revealed that the unpaired electron in (3‐E).+ is mainly located on the Fe (52–64 %) and vinylic C (30–36 %) atoms. Further 1e oxidation of (3‐E)GaCl4 leads to unprecedented η3‐EECvinyl to η3‐ECvinylCPh coordination shuttling to form the dications (4‐E)(GaCl4)2.
Fractionated busulfan myeloablative conditioning improves survival in older patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Oran Betül , Saliba Rima M. , Mehta Rohtesh S. , Alousi Amin M. , Marin David , Valdez Ben C. , Chen Julianne , Bashir Qaiser , Ciurea Stefan O. , Olson Amanda L. , Hosing Chitra , Kebriaei Partow , Rezvani Katy , Shpall Elizabeth J. , Champlin Richard E. , Andersson Borje S. , Popat Uday R.
Published: January 2021

Background

A myeloablative conditioning regimen can be safely given to older patients and those with comorbidities without increasing nonrelapse mortality (NRM) by fractionating the dose of intravenous busulfan. How this approach compares in efficacy with traditional, nonfractionated, lower dose regimens is unknown.

Methods

Outcomes were compared in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome who received either myeloablative, fractionated busulfan (f‐Bu) dosed to achieve an area under the curve of 20,000 μmol per minute (f‐Bu20K) over 2 weeks (n = 84) or a standard, nonfractionated, lower busulfan dose regimen of 16,000 μmol per minute (Bu16K) over 4 days (n = 78). Both groups also received fludarabine 40 mg/m2 intravenously for 4 days. Graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis was tacrolimus and methotrexate. Patients in the Bu16K group who had unrelated donors also received antithymocyte globulin. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival.

Results

Roughly one‐half of the patients were aged >65 years, approximately 40% had poor‐risk cytogenetics, approximately 40% of those with AML were not in complete remission, and approximately 40% had a comorbidity index >3. At 2 years, progression‐free survival was significantly improved in the f‐Bu20K group compared with the Bu16K group (45% vs 24%, respectively; hazard ratio [HR], 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4‐0.8; P = .004). This was because of a significant reduction in progression (34% vs 59%, respectively; HR, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.3‐0.8; P = .003) without any increase in NRM (21% vs 15%, respectively; HR, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.7‐3; P = .3), which resulted in improved overall survival (51% vs 31%, respectively; HR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.3‐0.9; P = .01).

Conclusions

A myeloablative, fractionated busulfan regimen reduces relapse and improves survival without increasing NRM in older patients with AML and myelodysplastic syndrome.
Rheumatoid arthritis CD14+ monocytes display metabolic and inflammatory dysfunction, a phenotype that precedes clinical manifestation of disease
Authors: McGarry Trudy , Hanlon Megan M. , Marzaioli Viviana , Cunningham Clare C , Krishna Vinod , Murray Kieran , Hurson Conor , Gallagher Phil , Nagpal Sunil , Veale Douglas J , Fearon Ursula
Published: January 2021

Introduction

This study investigates the metabolic activity of circulating monocytes and their impact on pro‐inflammatory responses in RA and explores whether this phenotype is already primed for inflammation before clinical manifestations of disease.

Methods

Blood was collected and CD14+ monocytes isolated from healthy control donors (HC), individuals at‐risk (IAR) and RA patients. Monocyte frequency in blood and synovial tissue was assessed by flow cytometry. Inflammatory responses and metabolic analysis ± specific inhibitors were quantified by RT‐PCR, Western blot, migration assays, Seahorse‐XFe‐technology, mitotracker assays and transmission electron microscopy. Transcriptomic analysis was performed on HC, IAR and RA synovial tissue.

Results

CD14+ monocytes from RA patients are hyper‐inflammatory following stimulation, with significantly higher expression of cytokines/chemokines than those from HC. LPS‐induced RA monocyte migratory capacity is consistent with increased monocyte frequency in RA synovial tissue. RA CD14+ monocytes show enhanced mitochondrial respiration, biogenesis and alterations in mitochondrial morphology. Furthermore, RA monocytes display increased levels of key glycolytic enzymes HIF1α, HK2 and PFKFB3 and demonstrate a reliance on glucose consumption, blockade of which abrogates pro‐inflammatory mediator responses. Blockade of STAT3 activation inhibits this forced glycolytic flux resulting in metabolic reprogramming and resolution of inflammation. Interestingly, this highly activated monocytic phenotype is evident in IAR of developing disease, in addition to an enhanced monocyte gene signature observed in synovial tissue from IAR.

Conclusion

RA CD14+ monocytes are metabolically re‐programmed for sustained induction of pro‐inflammatory responses, with STAT3 identified as a molecular regulator of metabolic dysfunction. This phenotype precedes clinical disease onset and may represent a potential pathway for therapeutic targeting early in disease.
Ab initio results for the plasmon dispersion and damping of the warm dense electron gas
Authors: Hamann Paul , Vorberger Jan , Dornheim Tobias , Moldabekov Zhandos A. , Bonitz Michael
Published: January 2021

Warm dense matter (WDM) is an exotic state on the border between condensed matter and dense plasmas. Important occurrences of WDM include dense astrophysical objects, matter in the core of our Earth, and matter produced in strong compression experiments. As of late, x‐ray Thomson scattering has become an advanced tool to diagnose WDM. The interpretation of the data requires model input for the dynamic structure factor S(q, ω) and the plasmon dispersion ω(q). Recently, the first ab initio results for S(q, ω) of the homogeneous warm dense electron gas were obtained from path integral Monte Carlo simulations (Dornheim et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., 121, 255001, 2018). Here, we analyse the effects of correlations and finite temperature on the dynamic dielectric function and the plasmon dispersion. Our results for the plasmon dispersion and damping differ significantly from the random‐phase approximation and from earlier models of the correlated electron gas. Moreover, we show when commonly used weak damping approximations break down and how the method of complex zeroes of the dielectric function can solve this problem for WDM conditions.
Metabarcoding of fecal DNA shows dietary diversification in wolves substitutes for ungulates in an island archipelago
Authors: Roffler Gretchen H. , Allen Jennifer M. , Massey Aimee , Levi Taal
Published: January 2021

Although ungulates are the main prey of wolves (Canis lupus) throughout their range, substantial dietary diversity may allow wolves to persist even when ungulates are declining or rare. Alexander Archipelago wolves (Canis lupus ligoni) inhabit distinct mainland and island biogeographic units, each with a unique assemblage of available prey. We quantified biogeographic variability in wolf diets across the archipelago using DNA metabarcoding of prey in 860 wolf scats collected during 2010–2018 in 12 study sites. We hypothesized that wolves would increase their dietary diversity and niche breadth as the proportion of ungulate species in their diets decreased, but that this could be mediated by the availability of coastal resources. Application of DNA metabarcoding achieved fine taxonomic resolution of prey remains and identified 55 diet items representing species from 42 genera and 29 families, many previously undetected in coastal wolf diets. Overall, ungulates made up the largest proportion of wolf diets but were also most variable between study sites (occurrence per item index [O/I] = 0.130–0.851). On islands, Sitka black‐tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus) were the most consumed ungulate species, whereas moose (Alces alces) and mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) contributed more to mainland wolf diets. Wolves responded to biogeographical variation in availability of their primary prey by altering their foraging patterns. Wolves increased the number and diversity of species consumed and widened their dietary niche as the proportion of ungulates in their diet declined rather than prey switch to one or few individual diet items. Across all study sites combined, beaver (Castor canadensis; O/I = 0.125), marine mammals (O/I = 0.113), and black bears (Ursus americanus; O/I = 0.067) were important alternate prey. In areas where ungulates had become scarce, sea otters (Enhydra lutris) were particularly important, in one case even becoming the primary diet item suggesting that the ongoing expansion of sea otter populations postreintroduction restores an important food source for these cryptic predators. Here, we show extensive variation in the diet of wolves and elucidate regional consumer–resource interactions across an archipelagic landscape.
Crossing boundaries in conservation: land ownership and habitat influence the occupancy of an at‐risk small mammal
Authors: Ceradini Joseph , Keinath Douglas , Abernethy Ian , Andersen Mark , Wallace Zach
Published: January 2021

Ecological research is critical for informing management of at‐risk species, for example, by identifying what drives occupancy of species across landscapes. However, restricting research to public land and omitting private land, as commonly occurs in ecological research, can bias inferences because important drivers of population and community patterns may vary with land ownership. We conducted a landscape‐scale study of a species of conservation concern, white‐tailed prairie dog (WTPD; Cynomys leucurus), across multiple land ownerships in Wyoming. We quantified how WTPD occupancy varied with both land ownership and biotic and abiotic factors. We established a baseline occupancy rate for WTPD in Wyoming, and quantified how this baseline would have been biased if we had restricted our study to public land. We surveyed 440 sites throughout the Wyoming range of WTPD, which included sites on public (275), private (80), checkerboard (55), and Wind River Indian Reservation (30) land. We found that WTPD occupancy varied significantly with land ownership and elevation, with WTPD being four times as likely to occupy private as public land at the median study area elevation. This difference in occupancy may have been driven by variation in habitat quality between ownership types, but we could not definitively determine the underlying cause. Regardless of land ownership, WTPD occupancy increased with bare ground, but also when recent plant biomass (as estimated by NDVI) was higher than a site’s long‐term average biomass. In other words, WTPD tended to occupy sparsely vegetated sites, but occupancy increased with short‐term increases in biomass. The strong land ownership effect illustrates how study area delineation in relation to land ownership can influence research inferences and management actions, and why it is counterproductive to presuppose that certain land ownerships contain low‐quality habitat. Ecologically, the variation in occupancy resulting from long‐term site conditions, such as overall density of vegetation, relative to short‐term site conditions, such as changes in plant biomass, can be used to improve long‐term population monitoring for WTPD.
Plant functional groups and species contribute to ecological resilience a decade after woodland expansion treatments
Authors: Freund Stephanie M. , Newingham Beth A. , Chambers Jeanne C. , Urza Alexandra K. , Roundy Bruce A. , Cushman J. Hall
Published: January 2021

Woody plant expansions are altering ecosystem structure and function, as well as fire regimes, around the globe. Tree‐reduction treatments are widely implemented in expanding woodlands to reduce fuel loads, increase ecological resilience, and improve habitat, but few studies have measured treatment outcomes over long timescales or large geographic areas. The Sagebrush Treatment Evaluation Project (SageSTEP) evaluated the ecological effects of prescribed fire and cut‐and‐leave treatments in sagebrush communities experiencing tree expansion in North American cold desert shrublands. We used 10 yr of data from the SageSTEP network to test how treatments interacted with pre‐treatment tree dominance, soil climate, and time since treatment to affect plant functional groups and dominant species. Non‐sprouting shrub (Artemisiaspp.), sprouting shrub, perennial graminoid, and annual grass responses depended on tree dominance and soil climate, and responses were related to the dominant species' life‐history traits. Sites with warm and dry soils showed increased perennial graminoid but reducedArtemisiashrub cover across the tree dominance gradient after prescribed burning, while sites with cool and moist soils showed favorable post‐burn responses for both functional types, particularly at low to moderate tree dominance. Cut‐and‐leave treatments sustained or increased native perennial plant functional groups and experienced smaller increases in exotic annual plants in both soil climates across the tree dominance gradient. Both treatments reduced biocrust cover. Selecting appropriate tree‐reduction treatments to achieve desired long‐term outcomes requires consideration of dominant species, site environmental conditions, and the degree of woodland expansion. Careful selection of management treatments will reduce the likelihood of undesirable consequences to the ecosystem.
Persistent mitral regurgitation after left ventricular assist device: a clinical conundrum
Authors: Cruz Rodriguez Jose B. , Chatterjee Arka , Pamboukian Salpy V. , Tallaj Jose A. , Joly Joanna , Lenneman Andrew , Aryal Sudeep , Hoopes Charles W. , Acharya Deepak , Rajapreyar Indranee
Published: January 2021

Aims

Persistent mitral valve regurgitation (MR) after continuous flow left ventricular assist device implantation (cfLVAD) is associated with pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular failure with variable effects on survival across published studies. The aim of this study is to determine the incidence and predictors of persistent MR at 6‐month follow‐up after cfLVAD implantation and its impact on survival, haemodynamics, right ventricular function, and morbidity.

Methods and results

We performed a retrospective review of all adult cfLVAD recipients from January 2012 to June 2017 at a single tertiary university hospital with follow‐up until April 2019. Primary outcome was to compare survival between patients with no‐to‐mild compared with persistent moderate‐to‐severe MR at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included right heart failure (RHF), length of stay, re‐hospitalizations, and composite of death, transplant, and pump exchange during the length of follow‐up. Final analytic sample was 111 patients. The incidence of persistent moderate or severe MR at 6 months was 26%. Significant predictors of persistent MR at 6 months were left atrium dimension and volume. The group with persistent moderate‐to‐severe MR at 6 months had higher incidence of RHF at 6 months (45% vs. 25%, P = 0.04). There was no difference in survival at 1 year between the groups (no‐to‐mild MR 85.5%, moderate‐to‐severe MR 87.9%, Wilcoxon P‐value = 0.63). There was no difference in re‐hospitalizations, length of stay, composite of death, transplant, or pump exchange during the length of follow‐up between the comparison groups.

Conclusions

Persistent moderate‐to‐severe MR after cfLVAD implantation is present in one fourth of patients and is associated with increased incidence of RHF, higher mean pulmonary pressure, and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure with no effect on 1 year survival. Increased left atrium size was associated with persistent moderate‐to‐severe MR at 6 months.
Biomorphic NiO/Ni with a Regular Pore‐Array Structure as a Supercapacitor Electrode Material
Authors: Tong Xiangzhi , Zhou Dongcheng , Qiu Mingjun , Zhou Yisong , Ai Yanli , Guo Xingmei , Zhang Junhao , Cai Yibing , Kong Qinghong
Published: January 2021

Promoting the electronic conductivity and constructing regular porous structures are of high importance for increasing the electrochemical performance of oxides as supercapacitor electrodes. Herein, a simple biotemplating method is explored to synthesize NiO/Ni with regular pore‐array structures. The specific capacitance of the biomorphic NiO/Ni (381.4 F g−1 at 1 A g−1) is higher than that of the nontemplated NiO sample (251.2 F g−1 at 1 A g−1). Moreover, good rate capability and cycling stability are also demonstrated. The enhanced electrochemical performance should be attributed to the improved electronic conductivity of hybridized NiO/Ni component and the efficient mass/charge transport in the biomorphic pore‐array architecture.
Synthesis of Quinoline‐4‐carboxamides and Quinoline‐4‐carboxylates via a Modified Pfitzinger Reaction of N‐Vinylisatins
Authors: Mijangos Marco V. , Amador‐Sánchez Yoarhy A. , Miranda Luis D.
Published: January 2021

A synthetic approach for the accelerated assembly of quinoline‐4‐carboxamide and quinoline‐4‐carboxylate nuclei is presented. The methodology is based on the rearrangement of N‐vinylisatins promoted by different types of amines (or ethanol) in a Pfitzinger‐type mechanism that, in turn, builds the quinoline ring system. The reaction took place only by heating the starting materials in ethanol, without any additive.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of radiofrequency procedures on innervation to the shoulder joint for relieving chronic pain
Authors: Pushparaj Hemkumar , Hoydonckx Yasmine , Mittal Nimish , Peng Philip , Cohen Steven P. , Cao Xingshan , Bhatia Anuj
Published: January 2021

Background and Objective

Studies have reported relief of chronic shoulder pain with non‐ablative pulsed neuromodulatory (pRF) or ablative radiofrequency (aRF) procedures on innervation of the shoulder joint but interpretation of these reports is hampered by inconsistent indications, anatomic targets and follow‐up. This systematic review was conducted to synthesize the existing literature on procedures employing pRF or aRF for treating chronic shoulder pain.

Databases and Data Treatment

MEDLINE and other medical literature databases were reviewed up to 31 December 2019 for publications on pRF or aRF procedures on shoulder joint innervation to relieve chronic pain. Data on analgesic and functional outcomes measured at any time point following the interventions were extracted. Existing knowledge on innervation of the shoulder joint with relevance to RF procedures was also synthesized.

Results

In all, 42 publications, 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 35 observational studies, case series or reports were identified. Thirty‐six of these publications were on pRF procedure and 29 of these reported procedures exclusively targeting the suprascapular nerve. A meta‐analysis of the seven RCTs evaluating pRF indicated no analgesic benefit or functional improvement with this treatment over conventional medical management. Case series and reports on aRF indicate a potential for analgesic benefit but the quality of this evidence was low.

Conclusions

RF treatments targeting the sensory innervation of the shoulder joint affected by degenerative conditions have the potential to reduce pain but the current evidence does not suggest analgesic or functional benefit (GRADE certainty of evidence—low). Studies of high methodological quality are required to further investigate the role of these interventions.

Significance

This is a comprehensive review of literature on pulsed (non‐ablative) and ablative radiofrequency (RF) procedures for chronic shoulder pain. The systematic review and meta‐analysis of 7 trials found that pulsed RF for chronic shoulder pain provided similar analgesia and functional improvement as conservative medical management at three months after the procedures. The case series and reports on ablative RF for shoulder pain indicate possible analgesic benefit but their quality was low. This review highlights the need for studies of a high quality on ablative RF treatments for chronic shoulder pain.
Clustering‐based adaptive ground motion selection algorithm for efficient estimation of structural fragilities
Authors: Kim Taeyong , Kwon Oh‐Sung , Song Junho
Published: January 2021

To accurately predict the seismic demands of structural systems, a proper set of ground motions representing the seismic hazard of a given site is needed. In general, such a set includes a large number of ground motions, and thus may result in high computational cost. To address this computational challenge without compromising the accuracy of structural fragility, this paper proposes a clustering‐based algorithm that can select a representative subset of ground motions adaptively from a given set of ground motions. First, critical features of ground motions that significantly affect seismic demands of the structural system are identified by Lasso regression of seismic responses of various single degree of freedom systems on existing intensity measures of ground motions. Second, ground motions are selected adaptively based on the hierarchical clustering of the critical features until the fragility curve converges. Applications to a reinforced concrete building and steel moment‐resisting frames demonstrate the improved efficiency and wide applicability of the proposed method. The results of the numerical examples confirm the robust performance of the proposed algorithm against various ground motions, structural types, and definitions of the limit‐states. The proposed algorithm enables us to obtain structural fragilities using a significantly reduced number of ground motions while keeping consistency with the available ground motion set.
Moving Toward Standardized Toxicity Testing Procedures with Particulates by Dietary Exposure of Gammarids
Authors: Götz Astrid , Imhof Hannes K. , Geist Juergen , Beggel Sebastian
Published: January 2021

Ecotoxicological effect assessment of particulate materials and sparingly soluble substances is an emerging field. Current standard toxicity tests of aquatic organisms are based on soluble substances which are added to the aqueous phase. Although soluble substances distribute homogeneously, particles can form aggregates, resulting in inhomogeneous distribution and unpredictable exposure. Therefore, test scenarios need to be adapted to overcome these uncertainties. We present a dietary particle exposure tool for the toxicity testing of sparingly soluble substances or particles in combination with a standardizable food source for gammarids based on decomposition and consumption tablets (DECOTABs). Four food supplements in the DEOCOTAB formulation were compared to test their influence on the energy reserves of gammarids. Although feeding rate was constant for most supplements, mortality and energy reserves revealed clear differences. Tabs supplemented with algae-based phyll or animal protein–based trout food best met all of the requirements. Fluorescent plastic microparticles (10–65 µm) were homogenously distributed and stable in the DECOTABs. Constant feeding was observed, and the number of ingested microparticles by Gammarus roeseli was quantified in relation to the consumed food. The developed method provides a realistic and methodologically reliable uptake from the oral pathway and allows the quantification of inner exposition via feeding rate, providing a promising tool for standardized dietary exposure scenarios with particles. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1463–1476. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Simultaneous detection of diethylstilbestrol and estradiol residues with a single immunochromatographic assay strip
Authors: Xu Zehua , Sun Tieqiang , He Hongwei , Liu Wentao , Fan Longxing , Zhao Lingdi , Wu Xinglin , Han Zhenyu , Zhang Yingcun , Wang Qiangqiang , Ning Baoan , Gao Zhixian
Published: January 2021

An immunochromatographic assay (ICA) based on competitive format was developed and validated for simultaneously rapid and sensitive detection of diethylstilbestrol (DES) and estradiol (E2) in milk and tissue samples. For this purpose, two monoclonal antibodies raised against those two estrogens were conjugated to gold nanoparticles and were applied to the conjugate pads of the test strip. The competitors of the DES‐BSA/E2‐BSA conjugates were immobilized onto a nitrocellulose membrane at two detection zones to form T1 and T2, respectively. The immunochromatographic assay had a visual detection limit of DES at 30 ng/g in milk powder, 25 ng/g in liquid milk, and 25 ng/g in shrimp tissue, respectively, and the results can be judged within 7–10 min. The visual detection limit of E2 was 75 ng/g in milk powder, 65 ng/g in liquid milk, and 60 ng/g in shrimp tissue, respectively, and the results can be judged within 3–4 min. It had advantages in easy operation without requiring sophisticated equipment and specialized skills. By testing thirty milk and shrimp tissue samples from the local market, the method was compared with the HPLC‐MS / MS method, and there was no statistical difference between the two methods. Furthermore, the immunochromatographic assay had good specificity, simple procedure, and low cost. This protocol was well suited for the food safety monitoring and early warning.
Low‐ and high‐dose radioiodine ablation for low‐/intermediate‐risk differentiated thyroid cancer in China: Large randomized clinical trial
Authors: Dong Ping , Wang Li , Qu Yuan , Huang Rui , Li Lin
Published: January 2021

Background

To determine whether 1.1 GBq radioiodine therapy is as effective as 3.7 GBq for ablation in Chinese patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC).

Methods

In this single‐center randomized study, we compared the successful radioiodine ablation rates of 1.1 GBq and 3.7 GBq for patients with DTC.

Results

At 6–8 months after radioiodine ablation, there were 95 (39%) patients in the 1.1 GBq group and 79 (32%) patients in the 3.7 GBq group with thyroid hormone withdrawal (THW), and ablation success rates were 84% versus 80%, respectively; and 149 (61%) patients in the 1.1 GBq group and 169 (68%) patients in the 3.7 GBq group without THW, and ablation success rates were 89% versus 90%, respectively. In total, the ablation was successful in 412 (87%) of the 474 patients, and it was similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Low‐dose radioiodine ablation was as effective as high dose in Chinese DTC patients.
Cervical polyps in early pregnancy are a risk factor for late abortion and spontaneous preterm birth: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hirayama Emi , Ebina Yasuhiko , Kato Kei , Akabane‐Nakagawa Kinuko , Okuyama Kazuhiko
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine the association between cervical polyps in early pregnancy and late abortion and spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB). We also aimed to explore the relationship between cervical polyps and cervical insufficiency in the second trimester.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 2941 singleton pregnant women between January 2010 and December 2015. The frequency of late abortion and SPTB (before 28, 34, or 37 weeks of pregnancy) was compared between the two groups of 142 (4.8%) patients who had cervical polyps early in the pregnancy (P group) and 2799 who did not (non‐P group). Multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for late abortion and SPTB.

Results

The incidence of late abortion and SPTB was significantly higher in the P group than in the non‐P group. Cervical polyps in early pregnancy were selected as independent risk factors for late abortion and SPTB before 28, 34, or 37 weeks of pregnancy. The P group had a significantly higher rate of cases requiring therapeutic cervical cerclage than the non‐P group.

Conclusion

Cervical polyps in early pregnancy are risk factors for late abortion and SPTB. They are also associated with the occurrence of cervical insufficiency.
Comparing the effects of videoconference and email feedback on treatment integrity
Authors: Zhu Jing , Bruhn Allison , Yuan Chengan , Wang Lanqi
Published: January 2021

Treatment integrity has a direct impact on early intensive behavioral intervention outcomes for children with autism (McDonald et al., 2017). In this study, we compared the effects of email feedback with an embedded graphic component to videoconference feedback on treatment integrity. Participants included 6 teachers who were providing services to children with autism in China. Using an adapted alternating treatment design, the experimenter associated each feedback method with a specific teaching procedure, either discrete trial training or incidental teaching. All teachers improved their integrity to criteria under the email feedback condition, but videoconference feedback produced faster mastery and better‐sustained integrity after the removal of the intervention. The teachers preferred videoconference feedback over email feedback in terms of acceptance and effectiveness of the intervention, but they considered email feedback a more efficient type of feedback.
Iodido equatorial ligands influence on the mechanism of action of Pt(IV) and Pt(II) anti‐cancer complexes: A DFT computational study
Authors: Scoditti Stefano , Vigna Vincenzo , Dabbish Eslam , Sicilia Emilia
Published: January 2021

A detailed computational exploration of the most relevant steps of iodido Pt(IV) complexes reduction and Pt(II) drugs mechanism of action and eventual deactivation is presented here inspired by the recent findings on iodido Pt(II) complexes and surprising re‐evaluation of their cytotoxic activity. Pt(II) and Pt(IV) model systems are investigated and compared with cisplatin and its Pt(IV) derivative. Both monodeprotonated ascorbic acid and l‐cysteine are used as reducing agents in the inner‐sphere reduction mechanism of Pt(IV) complexes. Aquation mechanism of iodido Pt(II) complexes, interaction with guanine and sulfur containing compounds and reaction with the model protein hen egg white lysozyme are explored, due to a detected different behavior with respect to classical platinum drugs. The outcomes of such exploration allow to shed light on the role that the increased soft character together with bridging and leaving abilities of iodide over chloride could play in determining the cytotoxic profile of iodido Pt drugs.
Herbal therapy as a promising approach for regulation on lipid profiles: A review of molecular aspects
Authors: Roghani‐Shahraki Hossein , Karimian Mohammad , Valipour Saboora , Behjati Mohaddeseh , Arefnezhad Reza , Mousavi Abolfazl
Published: January 2021

Impaired lipid profile is defined as abnormal plasma levels of low‐density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. This disease state is associated with the development and progression of various disorders, such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and acute myocardial infarction. Globally, all of these disorders are related to a significant rate of death. Therefore, finding a suitable approach for the prevention and treatment of lipid profile‐related disorders is in the spotlight. Recently, herbal therapy has been considered a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of hyperlipidemia or its related disorders due to its safety and efficacy. Hereby, we address the potential benefits of some of these herbal compounds on different aspects of lipid profile and its abnormalities with a special focus on their underlying mechanisms. Using herbal products, such as teas and mushrooms, or their derivatives, Rosmarinus officinalis Linn, Curcuma longa, Green tea, Lippia triphylla, Lippia citriodora, Plantago asiatica L, Vine tea, and Grifola frondosa have been proved to exert several therapeutic impacts on lipid profile and its related disorders, and we would provide a brief review on them in this literature.
Homogentisic acid induces cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix alteration in alkaptonuric cartilage
Authors: Galderisi Silvia , Cicaloni Vittoria , Milella Maria S. , Millucci Lia , Geminiani Michela , Salvini Laura , Tinti Laura , Tinti Cristina , Vieira Otilia V. , Alves Liliana S. , Crevenna Alvaro H. , Spiga Ottavia , Santucci Annalisa
Published: January 2021

Alkaptonuria (AKU) is an ultra‐rare disease caused by the deficient activity of homogentisate 1,2‐dioxygenase enzyme, leading the accumulation of homogentisic acid (HGA) in connective tissues implicating the formation of a black pigmentation called “ochronosis.” Although AKU is a multisystemic disease, the most affected tissue is the articular cartilage, which during the pathology appears to be highly damaged. In this study, a model of alkaptonuric chondrocytes and cartilage was realized to investigate the role of HGA in the alteration of the extracellular matrix (ECM). The AKU tissues lost its architecture composed of collagen, proteoglycans, and all the proteins that characterize the ECM. The cause of this alteration in AKU cartilage is attributed to a degeneration of the cytoskeletal network in chondrocytes caused by the accumulation of HGA. The three cytoskeletal proteins, actin, vimentin, and tubulin, were analyzed and a modification in their amount and disposition in AKU chondrocytes model was identified. Cytoskeleton is involved in many fundamental cellular processes; therefore, the aberration in this complex network is involved in the manifestation of AKU disease.
The NLRP3 inflammasome: Multiple activation pathways and its role in primary cells during ventricular remodeling
Authors: Yan Zhipeng , Qi Zhongwen , Yang Xiaoya , Ji Nan , Wang Yueyao , Shi Qi , Li Meng , Zhang Junping , Zhu Yaping
Published: January 2021

Inflammasomes are a group of multiprotein signaling complexes located in the cytoplasm. Several inflammasomes have been identified, including NLRP1, NLRP2, NLRP3, AIM2, and NLRC4. Among them, NLRP3 was investigated in most detail, and it was reported that it can be activated by many different stimuli. Increased NLRP3 protein expression and inflammasome assembly lead to caspase‐1 mediated maturation and release of IL‐1β, which triggers inflammation and pyroptosis. The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome has been widely reported in studies of tumors and neurological diseases, but relatively few studies on the cardiovascular system. Ventricular remodeling (VR) is an important factor contributing to heart failure (HF) after myocardial infarction (MI). Consequently, delaying VR is of great significance for improving heart function. Studies have shown that the NLRP3 inflammasome plays an essential role in the process of VR. Here, we reviewed the latest studies on the activation pathway of the NLRP3 inflammasome, focusing on the effects of the NLRP3 inflammasome in primary cells during VR, and finally discuss future research directions in this field.
Foliar spray application of CuO nanoparticles (NPs) and S‐nitrosoglutathione enhances productivity, physiological and biochemical parameters of lettuce plants
Authors: Pelegrino Milena T , Pieretti Joana C , Lange Camila Neves , Kohatsu Marcio Yukihiro , Freire Bruna Moreira , Batista Bruno Lemos , Fincheira Paola , Tortella Gonzalo R , Rubilar Olga , Seabra Amedea B
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Green‐tea‐synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) and S‐nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), a nitric oxide (NO) donor, were applied individually and in combination to lettuce leaves. We aimed to investigate whether a combined application of CuO NPs and GSNO might enhance plant growth when compared to individual treatments and the control group.

RESULTS

Spherical CuO NPs (13.4 ± 0.1 nm) at 50 μg mL−1 and/or GSNO at 100 μmol L−1 were individually and simultaneously sprayed onto lettuces leaves. All treatments had a positive effect on plant growth, and the administration of CuO NPs + GSNO promoted a threefold increase in lettuce dry weight. The treatments did not change plant transpiration, and all treatments enhanced instantaneous carboxylation efficiency compared to control. In the roots, all treatments enhanced the levels of S‐nitrosothiol in the following order: CuO NPs < GSNO < CuO NPs + GSNO. Administration of GSNO significantly increased total phenolic content (twofold) and flavonoid content (fourfold) compared to the control group. All treatments increased the leaf levels of K, Na, Ca, Mg and S compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

All treatments promoted positive effects on lettuce growth, and no oxidative damage was observed, under the experimental conditions evaluated. A combined administration of CuO NPs and GSNO enhanced important physiological, biochemical and nutritional parameters of lettuces. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Stereometric characterization ofDinizia excelsaDucke wood from Amazon rainforest using atomic force microscopy
Authors: da Conceição Willian Silva , Ţălu Ştefan , Matos Robert Saraiva , Ramos Glenda Quaresma , Zayas Fidel Guereiro , da Fonseca Filho Henrique Duarte
Published: January 2021

Dinizia excelsaDucke under three different cut conditions were carefully analyzed. The morphology and stereometry of different wood cutting surfaces (longitudinal radial, longitudinal tangential, and transversal) were studied by SEM and AFM. The results obtained in this study suggest that both the height parameters and the advanced stereometric parameters of the surfaces did not reveal a significant difference, indicating that the spatial patterns do not change according to the type of cut. In this way, the surface microtexture does not vary depending on the cut type. Similarly, the Hurst's coefficients did not show any significant difference in the spectrum of the PSD fractal region. On the other hand, Minkowski functionals presented a morphological difference between the samples. These results showed that the microtexture of the wood surface does not change as a function of the type of cut submitted to the same polishing process.
Influence of lived experience on risk perception among women who received a breast cancer polygenic risk score: ‘Another piece of the pie’
Authors: Willis Amanda M. , Smith Sian K. , Meiser Bettina , James Paul A. , Ballinger Mandy L. , Thomas David M. , Yanes Tatiane , Young Mary‐Anne
Published: January 2021

Polygenic risk scores (PRS) are personalized assessments of disease risk based on the cumulative effect of common low‐risk genetic variants. PRS have been shown to accurately predict women's breast cancer risk and are likely to be incorporated into personalized breast cancer risk management programs. However, there are few studies investigating the individual impact of receiving a breast cancer PRS. Existing studies have not demonstrated significant changes in perceived risk or risk management behaviors after receipt of polygenic risk information. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how women with a family history of breast cancer construct breast cancer risk perceptions after receipt of a breast cancer PRS. Unaffected women with a family history of breast cancer who had not previously received genetic counseling regarding their breast cancer risk were invited to participate in this study. In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 20 women who attended a familial cancer clinic in the Australian states of Victoria and Tasmania. Data were analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. Women's lived experience played a significant role in the construction and maintenance of their breast cancer risk perception. Women's pre‐existing risk perceptions were informed by their family history and their knowledge that breast cancer is a multifactorial disease. Knowing that breast cancer is a multifactorial disease enabled most women to integrate genetic information with their pre‐existing notions of risk. Women reported that the information they received was consistent with their existing notions of personal risk and screening advice. Therefore, the PRS did not lead to a change in perceived risk or risk management behaviors for most women. The results of this study provide insight into how polygenic risk information is integrated with pre‐existing notions of risk, which will inform its implementation into clinical practice.
Impact of a long‐term air pollution exposure on the case fatality rate of COVID‐19 patients—A multicity study
Authors: Hou Chang‐kai , Qin Ya‐fei , Wang Grace , Liu Quan‐lei , Yang Xin‐yu , Wang Hao
Published: January 2021

Evidence in the literature suggests that air pollution exposure affects outcomes of patients with COVID‐19. However, the extent of this effect requires further investigation. This study was designed to investigate the relationship between long‐term exposure to air pollution and the case fatality rate (CFR) of patients with COVID‐19. The data on air quality index (AQI), PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, and O3 from 14 major cities in China in the past 5 years (2015–2020) were collected, and the CRF of COVID‐19 patients in these cities was calculated. First, we investigated the correlation between CFR and long‐term air quality indicators. Second, we examined the air pollutants affecting CFR and evaluated their predictive values. We found a positive correlation between the CFR and AQI (1, 3, and 5 years), PM2.5 (1, 3, and 5 years), and PM10 (1, 3, and 5 years). Further analysis indicated the more significant correlation for both AQI (3 and 5 years) and PM2.5 (1, 3, and 5 years) with CFR, and moderate predictive values for air pollution indicators such as AQI (1, 3, and 5 years) and PM2.5 (1, 3, and 5 years) for CFR. Our results indicate that long‐term exposure to severe air pollution is associated with higher CFR of COVID‐19 patients. Air pollutants such as PM2.5 may assist with the prediction of CFR for COVID‐19 patients.
Bigeminal potentials in the pulmonary vein indicate arrhythmogenic trigger of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mukai Yasushi , Kawai Shunsuke , Inoue Shujiro , Takase Susumu , Sakamoto Kazuo , Nagaoka Kazuhiro , Chishaki Akiko , Tsutsui Hiroyuki
Published: January 2021

Background

The pulmonary veins (PVs) have unique electrophysiological properties triggering and maintaining atrial fibrillation (AF). Bigeminal PV electrical activity (PV bigeminy) during sinus rhythm has been reported; however, its mechanisms and clinical implication remain unclear. We hypothesized that PV bigeminy indicates arrhythmogenic activities and influences clinical outcome.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively analyzed electrophysiological studies in 465 patients with AF who underwent first session PV isolation (PVI). PV bigeminy was observed in 30 PVs of 23 patients (4.9% of patients). PV bigeminy was observed in left inferior PV (LIPV) in 15 patients, which was the most prevalent, followed by left superior in seven and right superior in seven and right inferior in one. In response to atrial extra stimulus, the second PV potentials (PV2) showed decremental conduction properties, suggesting reentrant mechanisms involved (n = 5). Interestingly, AF was initiated from the 23 PVs with bigeminy in 21 patients (76.7% of 30 PVs with bigeminy), spontaneously or in response to drugs, which was significantly more prevalent from the AF initiation rate from each PV in the control 442 patients (182 firings in 1290 PVs, 14.1%, P < .0001). PVI‐based ablation was completed in the 23 patients with PV bigeminy and no recurrence was observed during 1‐year follow‐up, whereas four patients needed second sessions.

Conclusions

PV bigeminy is relatively rare but a unique electrophysiological finding in AF patients, suggesting reentrant substrate within the PV and/or surrounding tissue. PV bigeminy is a strong indicator of arrhythmogenic vein triggering AF, and ensures an excellent clinical outcome after PVI.