bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐generation reproduction and limited teratology studies of ethanamizuril fed to rats
Authors: Zhao Juan , Wang Mi , Wang Xiaoyang , Fei Chenzhong , Xue Feiqun , Zhang Lifang , Wang Zhaoxiong , Zhang Keyu
Published: April 2020

Ethanamizuril, a new anticoccidial agent that belongs to triazine derivatives, has a broad and good anticoccidial activity. To evaluate the reproductive toxicity and teratogenic potential of ethanamizuril, different concentrations of ethanamizuril were administered to Sprague–Dawley rats by feeding diets containing 0, 2, 8, and 30 ppm, respectively. Each group consisting of 30 males and 30 females (F0) was treated with different concentrations of ethanamizuril through a 13‐week period before mating and during mating, gestation, parturition and lactation. In the 30 ppm dose group, pup body weight on days 7 and 21 in F1 offspring and day 21 in the F2a offspring were significantly decreased. A limited teratogenicity study was performed in combination with the F1 generation of a two‐generation reproduction study. F1 offspring of the reproduction study were mated after weaning of the F2a offspring. Pregnant female rats were subjected to cesarean section on gestational day 20 for teratogenic examination. No obvious body weights, fetal body lengths, tail lengths, litter weights, number of viable fetuses, external, skeletal, or visceral malformations in fetuses were noted in any groups in the teratogenic test, but ethanamizuril could be passed on to offspring through lactation.
Identification of key lncRNAs in the tumorigenesis of intraductal pancreatic mucinous neoplasm by coexpression network analysis
Authors: Ding Jun , Li Yi , Zhang Yong , Fan Bin , Li Qinghe , Zhang Jian , Zhang Jiayao
Published: April 2020

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is an intraepithelial precancerous lesion of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) that progresses from adenoma to carcinoma, and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) might be involved in the tumorigenesis. In this study, we obtained the expression profiles of more than 4000 lncRNAs by probe reannotation of a microarray dataset. As a correlation network‐based systems biology method, weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to find clusters of highly correlated lncRNAs in the tumorigenesis of IPMN, which covered four stepwise stages from normal main pancreatic duct to invasive IPMN. In the most relevant module (R2 = −0.75 and P = 5E‐05), three hub lncRNAs were identified (HAND2‐AS1, CTD‐2033D15.2, and lncRNA‐TFG). HAND2‐AS1 and CTD‐2033D15.2 were negatively correlated with the tumorigenesis (P in one‐way ANOVA test = 1.45E‐07 and 1.39E‐0.5), while lncRNA‐TFG were positively correlated with the tumorigenesis (P = 3.99E‐08). The validation set reached consistent results (P = 2.66E‐03 in HAND2‐AS1, 1.47E‐04 in CTD‐2033D15.2 and 6.23E‐08 in lncRNA‐TFG). In functional enrichment analysis, the target genes of microRNAs targeting also these lncRNAs were overlapped in multiple biological processes, pathways and malignant diseases including pancreatic cancer. In survival analysis, patients with higher expression of HAND2‐AS1‐targeted and CTD‐2033D15.2‐targeted microRNAs showed a significantly poorer prognosis in PDAC, while high expression of lncRNA‐TFG‐targeted microRNAs demonstrated an obviously better prognosis (log‐rank P < .05). In conclusion, by coexpression network analysis of the lncRNA profiles, three key lncRNAs were identified in association with the tumorigenesis of IPMN, and those lncRNAs might act as early diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer.
Mammalian‐Like Inflammatory and Pro‐Resolving Oxylipins in Marine Algae
Authors: Jagusch Hans , Baumeister Tim U. H. , Pohnert Georg
Published: April 2020

Oxylipins constitute a family of oxidized fatty acids, that are well known as tissue hormones in mammals. They contribute to inflammation and its resolution. The major classes of these lipid mediators are inflammatory prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes (LTs) as well as pro‐resolving resolvins (Rvs). Understanding their biosynthetic pathways and modes of action is important for anti‐inflammatory interventions. Besides mammals, marine algae also biosynthesize mammalian‐like oxylipins and thus offer new opportunities for oxylipin research. They provide prolific sources for these compounds and offer unique opportunities to study alternative biosynthetic pathways to the well‐known lipid mediators. Herein, we discuss recent findings on the biosynthesis of oxylipins in mammals and algae including an alternative pathway to prostaglandin E2, a novel pathway to a precursor of leukotriene B4, and the production of resolvins in algae. We evaluate the pharmacological potential of the algal metabolites with implications in health and disease.
In support of children of incarcerated parents
Authors: Paccione‐Dyszlewski Margaret
Published: April 2020

Children of incarcerated parents are a significant and highly vulnerable population in our nation.
Asymmetric Imides as Electrolyte Additive for Lithium‐Ion Batteries with NCM111 Cathode
Authors: Weigel Simon , Eisele Lea , Klose Petra , Lucht Brett , Beichel Witali , Krossing Ingo
Published: April 2020

The synthesis, spectroscopic and electrochemical characterization of Li[N(SiMe3)(SO2RF)] (RF=CF3, n‐C4F9) as well their behavior as electrolyte additive in lithium ion batteries (LIBs) is reported. The lithium salts were obtained by deprotonation of the corresponding acids HN(SiMe3)(SO2RF) with n‐butyllithium in n‐pentane. The electrochemical investigations suggested potential as additives for LIBs. Thus, NCM111/graphite cells (NCM111=Li[Ni0.33Co0.33Mn0.33]O2) with LP57 as electrolyte (LP57=1.0 M LiPF6 in EC/EMC 3 : 7) were built to test the performance. Cells with Li[N(SiMe3)(SO2RF)] as additives show coulombic efficiencies of over 99.6 %, less capacity fading over 55 cycles and a significantly lower cell impedance built up.
Vom Raseneisenerz zu Schmiedeeisen und einem himmelblauen Wunder
Authors: Sicker Dieter
Published: April 2020

Reisen Sie auch gern? Oft hat man dabei unerwartete Erlebnisse, die irgendwie mit Chemie zu tun haben. Wissen und Fakten werden dabei plötzlich durch Bilder illustriert; rein Chemisches wird so ungeahnt erweitert. Es verknüpft sich mit Geschichte und Geschichten, unbekannten Anwendungen, praktischen Handgriffen und mit dem realen Leben anderer Menschen. Man staunt über etwas, in dem man gar nichts Staunenswertes vermutete. Über solche kleinen Wunder soll diese Serie berichten. Mehr als sonst wollen wir dazu Fotos benutzen.
Tunable Graphene Systems for Water Desalination
Authors: Shao Changxiang , Zhao Yang , Qu Liangti
Published: April 2020

The desalination technologies of sea water are becoming of importance in providing sustainable fresh water. Graphene, as a fashion of two‐dimensional carbon monolayer, has emerged as a promising candidate to build up the material platform for water desalination. In this review, we summarize the development of tunable graphene systems applied in three kinds of water desalination techniques, including capacitive deionization, solar steam generation, and nanofiltration. The current achievements in this field have been highlighted with discussion of the challenges for desalination technologies.
Local adaptation in island populations of Plectritis congesta that differ in historic exposure to ungulate browsers
Authors: Skaien Cora L. , Arcese Peter
Published: April 2020

Spatial variation in the occurrence of browsing ungulates can drive local adaptation in plant traits but also lead to trade‐offs among traits potentially enhancing competitive ability versus resistance or tolerance to browsing. Plectritis congesta populations co‐occurring on islands with and without ungulates offer striking examples of population‐level variation in traits, such as plant height and fruit morphology, which may also affect fitness. We monitored split‐plot common gardens exposed to and protected from browsing ungulates for 5 yr to test for local adaptation (local vs. foreign comparison) in P. congesta by comparing the survival and fecundity of 4,392 sown fruits from six island populations where ungulates were present (“historically exposed”) and six where they were absent (“historically naïve”). Our results indicate that local adaptation to browsing in P. congesta favored rosette formation, delayed flowering, reduced height, and the production of wingless fruits, all of which appeared to enhance survival, fecundity, and population growth in plants from populations historically exposed to ungulate browsers, as compared to plants from historically naïve populations. In contrast, plants from historically naïve populations displayed higher relative fitness in the absence of ungulates, increased in height, flowered earlier, and produced fewer but larger, winged fruits, often in large terminal inflorescences. Our results support the hypothesis that variation in the occurrence of ungulate browsers has led to (1) spatial heterogeneity in natural selection and rapid adaptation in P. congesta populations on islands, and (2) context‐dependent trade‐offs in the fitness value of traits linked to the resistance or tolerance of browsing versus success in competition for light, pollinators, or other resources. Because patterns of selection in plant communities will vary with the introduction or extirpation of top predators or browsers, we suggest historical context, local adaptation, and the capacity for rapid adaptation should be a focal concern of those aiming to maximize or predict population persistence under environmental change in conservation plans.
Contrasting effects of plant diversity on β‐ and γ‐diversity of grassland invertebrates
Authors: Ebeling A. , Lind E. W. , Meyer S. T. , Barnes A. D. , Borer E. T. , Eisenhauer N. , Weisser W. W.
Published: April 2020

The diversity of primary producers strongly affects the structure and diversity of species assemblages at other trophic levels. However, limited knowledge exists of how plant diversity effects at small spatial scales propagate to consumer communities at larger spatial scales. We assessed arthropod community β and γ‐diversity in response to experimentally manipulated plant community richness in two long‐term grassland biodiversity experiments (Jena, Germany and Cedar Creek, USA) replicated over two years. We calculated arthropod species turnover among all plot combinations (β‐diversity), and accumulated number of arthropod species occurring on (1) all pairwise plot combinations and (2) 40 randomly selected six‐plot combinations (γ‐diversity). The components of arthropod diversity were tested against two measures of plant diversity, namely average plant α‐diversity () and the average difference in plant α‐diversity between plots (ΔPSR). Whereas points to the overall importance of plant α‐diversity for arthropod community turnover and diversity on a larger scale, ΔPSR represents the role of habitat heterogeneity. We demonstrate that arthropod γ‐diversity is supported by high, homogeneous plant α‐diversity, despite lower arthropod β‐diversity among high‐ compared to low‐diversity plant communities. We also show that, in six‐plot combinations, average plant α‐diversity has a positive influence on arthropod γ‐diversity only when homogeneity in plant α‐diversity is also high. Varying heterogeneity in six‐plot combinations showed that combinations consisting solely of plots with an intermediate level of plant α‐diversity support a higher number of arthropod species compared to combinations that contain a mix of high‐ and low‐diversity plots. In fact, equal levels of arthropod diversity were found for six‐plot combinations with only intermediate or high plant α‐diversity, due to saturating benefits of local and larger‐scale plant diversity for higher trophic levels. Our results, alongside those of recent observational studies, strongly suggest that maintaining high α‐diversity in plant communities is important for conserving multiple components of arthropod diversity. As arthropods carry out a range of essential ecosystem functions, such as pollination and natural pest‐control, our findings provide crucial insight for effective planning of human‐dominated landscapes to maximize both ecological and economic benefits in grassland systems.
An efficient CoMoS2 nanosheets on nitrogen, sulfur dual doped reduced graphene oxide as an electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Kumaran Yamini , Maiyalagan Thandavarayan , Yi Sung Chul
Published: April 2020

An increase in the necessity for clean and renewable energy leads to the production of hydrogen by several methods. Splitting of water by electrolysis is catching up to be a productive method to produce pure hydrogen with low cost and high efficiency using highly active non‐noble metal electrocatalysts. MoS2 has been widely studied for energy conservation devices for its 2D layered structure, excellent electronic conductivity, and high specific surface area. Incorporating transition metals (Co or Ni) will alter the intrinsic characteristic of MoS2 by enhancing its electrocatalytic property for hydrogen evolution reaction. Hence MoS2, CoMoS2, Co0.5MoS2 and a composite of Co0.5MoS2 with nitrogen sulfur doped graphene oxide were prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. Better performance was observed for the composite of Co0.5MoS2 with N, S‐rGO compared to other prepared catalysts with a low onset potential of 85 mV, overpotential (at 10 mA/cm2) of 178 mV and Tafel slope of 63.8 mV/dec. Further, the stability of the catalyst evaluated by chronoamperometric analysis demonstrated steady electrochemical performance for 12 hours.
Physicochemical parameter based estimation of discarding points for frying oil using data interpolation and principal component transformation
Authors: Li Yumei , Cao Xianbing , Cao Yanping , Feng Yuxu , Ji Jingjun , Xie Jiuying , Wang Xin
Published: April 2020

Data interpolation and principal component transformation (PCT) were used to compute the discarding points of a frying oil by measuring the physicochemical parameters—acid value, carbonyl value, and total polar compounds. Herein, the discarding point refers to the time point (associated with the value of each physicochemical parameter) at which the frying oil should be discarded. First, a primary visual analysis was performed for the obtained data by using line charts. Second, a curve interpolation method was used to compute the discarding points for each parameter and thus determine the discarding points for the frying oil. At 190, 205, and 220°C, the frying oil reached the discarding points at 22.1, 17.7, and 13 hr, respectively. The discarding area was also visualized on the corresponding surfaces for the originally obtained data and the interpolated data to investigate the discarding points. Third, the PCT was conducted for the three parameters at each temperature; the discarding point estimation for the three parameters could be reduced to the estimation from the first principal component (FPC), thereby simplifying this process. At 190, 205, and 220°C, the frying oil reached the discarding points when the FPCs were 10.4524, 6.2881, and −1.7629 at the time points 22.1, 17.7, and 13 hr, respectively. Finally, a verification experiment revealed that the correlation between the results obtained by our interpolation method or PCT and the verified data was higher than 0.98, which demonstrates the effectiveness of our method.
Weight loss reduces head motion: Revisiting a major confound in neuroimaging
Authors: Beyer Frauke , Prehn Kristin , Wüsten Katharina A. , Villringer Arno , Ordemann Jürgen , Flöel Agnes , Witte A. Veronica
Published: April 2020

Head motion during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) induces image artifacts that affect virtually every brain measure. In parallel, cross‐sectional observations indicate a correlation of head motion with age, psychiatric disease status and obesity, raising the possibility of a systematic artifact‐induced bias in neuroimaging outcomes in these conditions, due to the differences in head motion. Yet, a causal link between obesity and head motion has not been tested in an experimental design. Here, we show that a change in body mass index (BMI) (i.e., weight loss after bariatric surgery) systematically decreases head motion during MRI. In this setting, reduced imaging artifacts due to lower head motion might result in biased estimates of neural differences induced by changes in BMI. Overall, our finding urges the need to rigorously control for head motion during MRI to enable valid results of neuroimaging outcomes in populations that differ in head motion due to obesity or other conditions.
Trajectory on‐the‐fly molecular dynamics approach to tunneling splitting in the electronic excited state: A case of tropolone
Authors: Ootani Yusuke , Satoh Aya , Harabuchi Yu , Taketsugu Tetsuya
Published: April 2020

The semiclassical tunneling method is applied to evaluate the tunneling splitting of tropolone due to the intramolecular proton transfer in the electronic excited state, first time, in a framework of the trajectory on‐the‐fly molecular dynamics (TOF‐MD) approach. To prevent unphysical zero‐point vibrational energy transfer among the normal modes of vibration, quantum zero‐point vibrational energies are assigned only to the vibrational modes related to intramolecular proton transfer, whereas the remaining modes are treated as bath modes. Practical ways to determine the tunnel‐initiating points and tunneling path are introduced. It is shown that the tunneling splitting decreases as the bath‐mode energy increases. The experimental tunneling splitting value is well reproduced by the present TOF‐MD approach based on the Wentzel‐Kramers‐Brillouin (WKB) approximation.
Role of tumor microenvironment in the regulation of PD‐L1: A novel role in resistance to cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Kalantari Khandani Nirvana , Ghahremanloo Atefeh , Hashemy Seyed Isaac
Published: April 2020

Tumor evasion from the host immune system is a substantial strategy for tumor development and survival. The expression of many immune checkpoint proteins in cancer cells is a mechanism by which tumor cells escape from the immune system. Among the well‐known immune checkpoints that can tremendously affect tumor development and cancer therapy are the programmed death‐ligand‐1/programmed death‐1 (PD‐L1/PD‐1). To tackle this phenomenon and improve the therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment, the blockade of the PD‐L1/PD‐1 pathway is introduced as a target, but the therapeutic advantage of PD L1/PD‐1 blockade has not fulfilled the expectations. This condition may be associated with a different type of resistance in a considerable number of patients. A crucial issue to conquer resistance against immune checkpoint blockade therapy is to understand how PD‐L1 level is regulated. However, the mechanisms by which the PD‐L1 expression is regulated are complicated, and they can occur at different levels from signaling pathways to posttranscriptional levels. For example, various transcriptional factors, such as hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1, nuclear factor‐κΒ, interferon‐γ, STAT3, MYC, and AP‐1 can regulate the PD‐L1 distribution at the transcriptional level. Herein, we tried to focus on the most important regulatory mechanisms of PD‐L1 by inducible agents in the tumor cells, such as signaling pathways, transcriptional factors, and posttranscriptional factors. Finally, these approaches may open up new windows for targeting tumor immune evasion and suggest the novel suppressors of PD‐L1 for efficient therapeutics.
Long noncoding RNA 2193 regulates meiosis through global epigenetic modification and cytoskeleton organization in pig oocytes
Authors: Yang Cai‐Xia , Wang Pei‐Chao , Liu Shuai , Miao Jia‐Kun , Liu Xiao‐Man , Miao Yi‐Liang , Du Zhi‐Qiang
Published: April 2020

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate a variety of physiological and pathological processes. However, the biological function of lncRNAs in mammalian germ cells remains largely unexplored. Here we identified one novel lncRNA (lncRNA2193) from single‐cell RNA sequencing performed on porcine oocytes and investigated its function in oocyte meiosis. During in vitro maturation (IVM), from germinal vesicle (GV, 0 hr), GV breakdown (GVBD, 24 hr), to metaphase II stage (MII, 44 hr), the transcriptional abundance of lncRNA2193 remained stable and high. LncRNA2193 interference by small interfering RNA microinjection into porcine GV oocytes could significantly inhibit rates of GVBD and the first polar body extrusion, but enhance the rates of oocytes with a nuclear abnormality. Moreover, lncRNA2193 knockdown disturbed cytoskeletal organization (F‐actin and spindle), and decreased DNA 5‐methylcytosine (5mC) and histone trimethylation (H3K4me3, H3K9me3, H3K27me3, and H3K36me3) levels. The lncRNA2193 downregulation induced a decrease of 5mC level could be partially due to the reduction of DNA methyltransferase 3A and 3B, and the elevation of 5mC‐hydroxylase ten‐11 translocation 2 (TET2). After parthenogenetic activation of MII oocytes, parthenotes exhibited higher fragmentation but lower cleavage rates in the lncRNA2193 downregulated group. However, lncRNA2193 interference performed on mature MII oocytes and parthenotes at 1‐cell stage did not affect the cleavage and blasctocyst rates of pathenotes. Taken together, lncRNA2193 plays an important role in porcine oocyte maturation, providing more insights for relevant investigations on mammalian germ cells.
Ketone Bodies Attenuate Wasting in Models of Atrophy
Authors: Koutnik Andrew P. , Poff Angela M. , Ward Nathan P. , DeBlasi Janine M. , Soliven Maricel A. , Romero Matthew A. , Roberson Paul A. , Fox Carl D. , Roberts Michael D. , D'Agostino Dominic P.
Published: April 2020

Background

Cancer Anorexia Cachexia Syndrome (CACS) is a distinct atrophy disease negatively influencing multiple aspects of clinical care and patient quality of life. Although it directly causes 20% of all cancer‐related deaths, there are currently no model systems that encompass the entire multifaceted syndrome, nor are there any effective therapeutic treatments.

Methods

A novel model of systemic metastasis was evaluated for the comprehensive CACS (metastasis, skeletal muscle and adipose tissue wasting, inflammation, anorexia, anemia, elevated protein breakdown, hypoalbuminemia, and metabolic derangement) in both males and females. Ex vivo skeletal muscle analysis was utilized to determine ubiquitin proteasome degradation pathway activation. A novel ketone diester (R/S 1,3‐Butanediol Acetoacetate Diester) was assessed in multifaceted catabolic environments to determine anti‐atrophy efficacy.

Results

Here, we show that the VM‐M3 mouse model of systemic metastasis demonstrates a novel, immunocompetent, logistically feasible, repeatable phenotype with progressive tumor growth, spontaneous metastatic spread, and the full multifaceted CACS with sex dimorphisms across tissue wasting. We also demonstrate that the ubiquitin proteasome degradation pathway was significantly upregulated in association with reduced insulin‐like growth factor‐1/insulin and increased FOXO3a activation, but not tumor necrosis factor‐α‐induced nuclear factor‐kappa B activation, driving skeletal muscle atrophy. Additionally, we show that R/S 1,3‐Butanediol Acetoacetate Diester administration shifted systemic metabolism, attenuated tumor burden indices, reduced atrophy/catabolism and mitigated comorbid symptoms in both CACS and cancer‐independent atrophy environments.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest the ketone diester attenuates multifactorial CACS skeletal muscle atrophy and inflammation‐induced catabolism, demonstrating anti‐catabolic effects of ketone bodies in multifactorial atrophy.
Rats (Rattus norvegicus) find occupancy of a restraint tube rewarding
Authors: Hachiga Yosuke , Silberberg Alan , Slotnick Burton , Gomez Maria
Published: April 2020

Two experiments evaluated whether rats' occupancy of a restraint tube is reinforcing. In Experiment 1, each rat in the 0‐min group moved freely in a chamber where a wall blocked access to a restraint tube. After 10 min the wall was removed, permitting 15 min of chamber access and tube entry. The other 2 groups were locked in the tube for 10 and 20 min respectively before release into the chamber for 15 min. Across sessions, rats locked up for 10 and 20 min entered the tube more frequently than rats in the 0‐min group, and during the first 2 sessions rats in the 20‐min group stayed in the tube longer than the other groups. Over sessions this difference disappeared. However, for all groups and sessions the mean percentage of session time in the tube exceeded chance expectations. This result suggests tube occupation was reinforcing. In Experiment 2’s Phase 1, rats could enter an open tube. On exiting, the tube door closed. A lever press opened the door for the rest of the 1‐hr session. In Phase 2, these rats were locked in the tube for 10 min before the door opened. Upon exiting, the door closed. As in Phase 1, a lever press opened the door for the rest of the session. The latency between pressing and tube entry decreased over sessions, indicating that tube entry reinforced lever pressing. These results are difficult to reconcile with accounts of rat empathy based on the thesis that tube restraint distresses occupants.
Flexibility of planar graphs of girth at least six
Authors: Dvořák Zdeněk , Masařík Tomáš , Musílek Jan , Pangrác Ondřej
Published: April 2020

Let be a planar graph with a list assignment . Suppose a preferred color is given for some of the vertices. We prove that if has girth at least six and all lists have size at least three, then there exists an ‐coloring respecting at least a constant fraction of the preferences.
SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein favors ACE2 from Bovidae and Cricetidae
Authors: Luan Junwen , Jin Xiaolu , Lu Yue , Zhang Leiliang
Published: April 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) causes the recent COVID‐19 public health crisis. Bat is the widely believed original host of SARS‐CoV‐2. However, its intermediate host before transmitting to humans is not clear. Some studies proposed pangolin, snake, or turtle as the intermediate hosts. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the receptor for SARS‐CoV‐2, which determines the potential host range for SARS‐CoV‐2. On the basis of structural information of the complex of human ACE2 and SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor‐binding domain (RBD), we analyzed the affinity to S protein of the 20 key residues in ACE2 from mammal, bird, turtle, and snake. Several ACE2 proteins from Primates, Bovidae, Cricetidae, and Cetacea maintained the majority of key residues in ACE2 for associating with SARS‐CoV‐2 RBD. The simulated structures indicated that ACE2 proteins from Bovidae and Cricetidae were able to associate with SARS‐CoV‐2 RBD. We found that nearly half of the key residues in turtle, snake, and bird were changed. The simulated structures showed several key contacts with SARS‐CoV‐2 RBD in turtle and snake ACE2 were abolished. This study demonstrated that neither snake nor turtle was the intermediate hosts for SARS‐CoV‐2, which further reinforced the concept that the reptiles are resistant against infection of coronavirus. This study suggested that Bovidae and Cricetidae should be included in the screening of intermediate hosts for SARS‐CoV‐2.
Lipid profile and growth of black soldier flies (Hermetia illucens, Stratiomyidae) reared on by‐products from different food chains
Authors: Hadj Saadoun Jasmine , Montevecchi Giuseppe , Zanasi Luca , Bortolini Sara , Macavei Laura Ioana , Masino Francesca , Maistrello Lara , Antonelli Andrea
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The total amount of bio‐waste produced annually in the EU by the food and beverage chains is estimated at 37 billion kg. The use of insects for the valorization of by‐products from these value chains may represent a sustainable solution. This study aimed to investigate the by‐products obtained from different food chains and used for the rearing of black soldier fly (BSF) prepupae, and to evaluate the content and profile of the lipid extracted from the prepupae and outline its possible applications. The substrates used in this experiment were: (i) industrial by‐products (brewery spent grains, cows’ milk whey, grape stalks, and tomato peels and seeds) and (ii) by‐products from retailers (bread dough, fish scraps, and spent coffee ground). Fat extracted from prepupae using an adjusted Folch method was used for total lipid content and fatty acid profile.

RESULTS

The best larval performances were obtained from beer (0.22 gweightper prepupa), tomato (0.19 gweightper prepupa), and cheese (0.14 gweightper prepupa) food‐chain by‐products. The extremely different compositions of the substrates were reflected in the differentiated lipid profile of the BSF prepupae and in the range of ratios between unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, which varied from 0.37 for cows’ milk whey to 1.34 for tomato peels and seeds.

CONCLUSION

The lipids, proteins, and chitin extracted from prepupae are high‐value bio‐based products that could be used in the feed / food industry or for the development of innovative biomaterials, such as biodiesel. These results suggest that food‐chain by‐products are the best candidates for insect‐bioconversion purposes. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Dimensioning a full color LED microdisplay for augmented reality headset in a very bright environment
Authors: Quesnel Etienne , Lagrange Alexandre , Vigier Margaux , Consonni Marianne , Tournaire Myriam , Le Marchand Valentin , Suhm Aurélien , Demars Patrick , Pillet Jean‐Christophe , Ben Bakir Badhise , Olivier Nicolas , Feltin Eric , Lamy Jean Michel , D'Amico Michele , Cao Edgar , Haas Gunther , Charrier Laurent , Coni Philippe
Published: April 2020

This paper focuses on the dimensioning of a very bright full color 10 μm‐pitch light‐emitting device (LED) microdisplay for avionics application. Starting from the specifications of head‐mounted display to be used in an augmented reality optical system, a theoretical approach is proposed that enables predicting the specifications of the main technology building blocks entering into the microdisplay manufacturing process flow. By taking into account various material and technological parameters, kept as realistic as possible, it is possible to assess the feasibility of a very bright LED microdisplay (1 Mcd/m2 full white) and to point out the main limitations. The theoretical specifications are then compared with the technical results obtained so far in the framework of the H2020 Clean Sky “HILICO” project. It shows that 350 000 cd/m2 of white emission may be accessible with the present gallium nitride (GaN)‐micro‐LED technology provided a color conversion solution with stable external quantum efficiency of 30% is available. Beyond such level of luminance, the inherent limitations of driving circuit (4 V, 15 μA per pixel) commands working with materials enabling higher external quantum efficiency (EQE). In particular, 10‐μm‐pitch micro‐LEDs with electroluminescence EQE of 15% and color conversion EQE approaching 60% are needed, opening the way to future challenging material and technology research developments.
Evaluation of matrix effect in one‐dimensional and comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography for the determination of the phenolic fraction in extra virgin olive oils
Authors: Arena Katia , Cacciola Francesco , Rigano Francesca , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: April 2020

Olea europaea, meaning “European olive,” is a small tree belonging to the family Oleaceae, occurring in the Mediterranean Basin. Olive oil is an essential component of a balanced diet because of its nutritional value. Among micronutrients, phenolic compounds did show important beneficial effects for human health. The majority of the research studies on the phenol content are carried out by liquid chromatography combined to photodiode array and/or mass spectrometry detection; however, because of matrix complexity, one‐dimensional liquid chromatography cannot be sometimes sufficient to obtain rewarding separations, requiring more advanced analytical techniques. In this work, comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography, incorporating RP‐Amide and C18 stationary phases, in the first and second dimension, respectively, both under reversed phase conditions, was investigated for the determination of the phenolic fraction in extra virgin olive oil samples. As far as detection is concerned, triple quadrupole mass spectrometry was employed under multi reaction monitoring mode offering superior selectivity and sensitivity. The reduction of matrix effects, when using comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography with respect to conventional one‐dimensional liquid chromatography, was assessed by comparing the slopes of calibration curves built from standard solutions and spiked olive oil samples.
Total Thyroidectomy Versus Lobectomy in Small Nodules Suspicious for Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Cost‐Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Al‐Qurayshi Zaid , Farag Mahmoud , Shama Mohamed A. , Ibraheem Kareem , Randolph Gregory W. , Kandil Emad
Published: April 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Recent American Thyroid Association Guidelines recommend either near‐total/total thyroidectomy or lobectomy for patients with a thyroid nodule suspicious for papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) on fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy (Bethesda V). In this analysis, we aim to assess the cost‐effectiveness of lobectomy in comparison to total thyroidectomy.

Study Design

Cost‐effectiveness analysis.

Methods

A Markov model cost‐effectiveness analysis was performed for a base case followed for 20 years postoperatively. Cost and probabilities data were retrieved from the current literature. Effectiveness was represented by quality‐adjusted life year (QALY).

Results

Total thyroidectomy protocol produced an incremental cost of $2,681.36 and incremental effectiveness of −0.24 QALY as compared to lobectomy protocol (incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio [ICER] = −$11,188.85/QALY). Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that total thyroidectomy becomes a cost‐effective strategy only if the risk of stages III and IV PTC is 82.4% among patients with suspicious PTC on preoperative FNA. Lobectomy is cost effective and preferred over total thyroidectomy as long as lobectomy complications are less than 50%.

Conclusions

Total thyroidectomy is not just cost prohibitive but also associated with a lower effectiveness compared to lobectomy.

Level of Evidence

2c Laryngoscope, 2020
Meralgia paresthetica: Nerve stimulator‐guided injection with methylprednisolone/lidocaine, a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Kloosterziel Mark E. , Tavy Dénes L. J. , Arends Samuel , Zijdewind Joyce M. , van Zwet Erik W. , Wirtz Paul W.
Published: April 2020

Background

Meralgia paresthetica is a mononeuropathy of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. A common therapy is injection with corticosteroids. The goal of this study was to analyze the effect of injection with methylprednisolone/lidocaine vs placebo.

Methods

After randomization, 10 patients received a nerve stimulator‐guided injection with methylprednisolone/lidocaine, and 10 patients received saline. The primary outcome measure was pain (visual analogue scale, VAS).

Results

In the placebo group, there was a significant pain reduction (baseline VAS, 6.8; VAS week 12, 4.3; P = .014). The VAS score in the methylprednisolone group did not show a significant reduction (baseline VAS, 7.4; VAS week 12, 4.8; P = .053). There was no significant difference in pain reduction between the groups.

Conclusions

We found no objective evidence for benefit from nerve stimulator‐guided injection with corticosteroids in meralgia paresthetica, although this study is limited by a small sample size. Future placebo‐controlled studies using ultrasound‐guided injection are warranted.
When kidney transplantation is not an option: Haemodialysis patients' and partners' experiences—A qualitative study
Authors: Frandsen Christina Egmose , Pedersen Erik Bo , Agerskov Hanne
Published: April 2020

Aim

To investigate the experiences and perspectives of everyday life among patients on lifelong haemodialysis and their partners.

Design

A qualitative exploratory study with a phenomenological–hermeneutic approach.

Method

Data were collected through individual interviews. In total, five patients in haemodialysis and their partners were included in the study. Data were analysed with inspiration from Ricoeur's theory around narratives and interpretation on three levels: naïve reading, structural analysis and critical interpretation and discussion. Data was collected between February 2018–June 2019.

Results

Limitations caused by the disease and time‐consuming treatment influenced daily life. In particular, the partners needed to have time on their own. Knowledge about the disease and participation in treatment were significant to both patients and partners. There were considerations about illness progression. Relationships to their social networks and healthcare professionals were a significant and important part of daily life for both parties.
Inhibition Tasks are not Associated with a Variety of Behaviours in College Students
Authors: Gunten Curtis D. , Bartholow Bruce D. , Martins Jorge S.
Published: April 2020

Executive functions are (EF) top–down control processes involved in regulating thoughts, ignoring distractions, and inhibiting impulses. It is widely believed that these processes are critical to self–control and, therefore, that performance on behavioural task measures of EF should be associated with individual differences in everyday life outcomes. The purpose of the present study was to test this assumption, focusing on the core executive function facet of inhibition. A sample of 463 undergraduates completed five laboratory inhibition tasks, along with three self–report measures of self–control and 28 self–report measures of life outcomes. Results showed that although most of the life outcome measures were associated with self–reported self–control, only one of the outcomes was associated with inhibition task performance at the latent–variable level, and this association was in the unexpected direction. Furthermore, few associations were found at the individual task level. These findings challenge the criterion validity of lab–based inhibition tasks. More generally, when considered alongside the known lack of convergent validity between inhibition tasks and self–report measures of self–control, the findings cast doubt on the task's construct validity as measures of self–control processes. Potential methodological and theoretical reasons for the poor performance of laboratory–based inhibition tasks are discussed. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Successful Treatment of Delayed Methotrexate Clearance Using Glucarpidase Dosed on Ideal Body Weight in Obese Patients
Authors: Krüger Caroline , Engel Nils , Reinert Jochim , Alsdorf Winfried , Fiedler Walter , Dierlamm Judith , Bokemeyer Carsten , Langebrake Claudia
Published: April 2020

Delayed methotrexate (MTX) elimination after treatment with high‐dose (HD) MTX may result in life‐threatening toxicities as well as acute kidney injury (AKI). Treatment includes administration of glucarpidase, an enzyme that rapidly inactivates MTX. Dosing of glucarpidase is based on body weight; however, recommendations for dosage adjustments in obese patients are lacking. We describe three obese adult patients (body mass index [BMI] range 31–43 kg/m2) who received HD‐MTX following all precautions for its treatment. Although peak MTX concentrations were within the expected range (308–368 µmol/L), MTX concentrations after 24 hours or later were markedly increased (97, 52, and 19 µmol/L, respectively). Two patients experienced AKI. After a single intravenous dose of glucarpidase 4000 units (50 units/kg on the basis of ideal body weight [IBW]) was administered to each patient 38, 46, and 60 hours, respectively, after the start of MTX, MTX concentrations dropped quickly to 1.37, 0.07, and 0.03 µmol/L, respectively, and further decreased steadily. Over time, clinical status and renal function improved in all patients. Glucarpidase is a highly hydrophilic molecule with a volume of distribution of 3.6 L, representing the intravascular volume of an adult. Therefore, we used IBW for glucarpidase dose calculations, allowing us to reduce the dose that would have been determined by using total body weight. This approach resulted in a rapid decrease of MTX serum concentrations and may reduce treatment costs of this highly expensive drug.
A Review on the Modern Synthetic Approach of Benzimidazole Candidate
Authors: Faheem Mohd. , Rathaur Anjali , Pandey Apoorva , Kumar Singh Vinay , Tiwari Anjani K.
Published: April 2020

Benzimidazole structure contains imidazole ring fused with phenyl ring at 4‐ and 5‐position. The mono and disubstituted derivatives of benzimidazole are very interesting heterocyclic organic molecules, synthesized by a simple nucleophilic substitution reaction and condensation method between o‐phenylenediamine with carbonyl compound under different conditions are reported, and as time passed away, the method also be reported in favor of the environment‐friendly with good yield product. We cover the literature up to the end of 2019 in which very recently reported synthetic route to access benzimidazole scaffolds are discussed. We are focus on the evaluation of synthetic route to construct monosubstituted‐benzimidazole (MSBs) and disubstituted‐benzimidazoles (DSBs), via various methods involving condensation, cyclization or employing green chemistry aspect such as utilizing solvent‐free conditions, metal‐free conditions, or using nanoparticle catalyst etc. Benzimidazoles found in the natural system display a wide range of pharmaceutical properties have been reported. The scaffolds are characterized as structurally potential ligands which can bind to different receptor sites for the discovery of various immerging drugs. Therefore, benzimidazole is recognized as a potent scaffold in the pharmaceutical industry and diverse synthetic pathways have been developed to prepare its functionalized derivatives which are described in this review.
Intrinsic Photocatalysis of Morphology and Oxygen Vacancy‐Tunable Ultrathin WO3 Nanosheets
Authors: Zhou Jianwei , Wang Chubei , Jia Chunyan , Zhou Yuan , Duo Fangfang , Wei Zhengyan
Published: April 2020

The oxygen‐deficient WO3 nanosheets (WO3 NS) with pore structure were synthesized by a facile solvothermal approach and their microstructure and oxygen vacancy (Vo) were regulated via heat treating atmosphere. The mean thickness of WO3 NS is about 1.2 nm, which is equivalent to the thickness of single atom or molecule layer. The quantitative analyses on the ultrathin WO3 NS of catalytic dynamic and Vo concentrations have been done. The appropriate Vo concentration can play a critical role in the transfer/separation of surface photogenerated carriers. Using phenol as the target compound and hydrogen peroxide as the accelerant, under visible‐light irradiation, the apparent rate constant of WO3‐Ar NS is about 2.0 times and 1.8 times than that of WO3 nanoparticles and WO3‐air NS, respectively. These unique photocatalytic properties were attributed to the contribution of atomic layers, suitable crystal phase and porous surface and appropriate Vo content, which increases the specific surface areas and regulates the electrical properties.
Preparation of Single‐Phase Iron Nitrides and Investigation of Their Fischer‐Tropsch Synthesis Performance
Authors: Wang Chao , Zhang Juan , Chen Jiangang
Published: April 2020

Single‐phase of ζ‐Fe2N, ϵ‐Fe3N, γ′‐Fe4N and χ‐Fe5C2were obtained by pretreating reduced α‐Fe at proper temperature and atmosphere. The morphology, bulk structure and surface properties are different because of the interstitial atoms N. The bulk structure of iron nitrides was investigated by X‐ray diffraction spectra and the surface properties were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy, N2‐adsorption isotherms, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and CO‐temperature programmed desorption. Iron nitrides have similar texture properties. It is found that the binding energy values of Fe atoms which bond with N are smaller in ζ‐Fe2N. Iron nitride which with low iron content has stronger interaction with CO and has higher specific activity and C5+selectivity. And the low molecular weight product selectivity of iron nitrides is higher than χ‐Fe5C2.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Bi‐Doped WO3⋅0.5H2O Material with Tetragonal Pyramid‐Like Structure and Its Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Deng Yuehong , Tan Yawen , Tang Haiqin , Xiang Ye , Zhu Jie , Wu Wan , Xu Yifeng , Zou Hao , Zhou Yi
Published: April 2020

A novel Bi‐doped WO3⋅0.5H2O nanomaterial with a tetragonal pyramid‐like structure was synthesized for the first time by a convenient and green hydrothermal method. The Bi‐doped WO3⋅0.5H2O material were successfully obtained and confirmed by XRD, XPS and EDX. Bi‐doped tetragonal pyramid‐like WO3⋅0.5H2O material exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance. The 1 mol% of Bi‐doped WO3⋅0.5H2O exhibits optimal degradation efficiency for MO, reaching 99.5% after 75 min. The enhancement of photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the doping of Bi. This is because the doping of Bi affects the morphology of WO3⋅0.5H2O, improves the crystallinity of the material, expands the light absorption range of the material and causes a slightly increase in oxygen vacancies and carrier density. In addition, the material exhibits excellent reusability under light irradiation. This study not only provides a simple strategy for constructing new metal ion doped composite materials, but also enhances the application potential of WO3‐based photocatalytic materials in the decomposition of harmful organic dyes in wastewater.
Iodine‐Mediated Oxidative Annulation by C–C Cleavage: A Domino Synthetic Approach to Quinazolinones and Benzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2‐c]quinazolines
Authors: Donthiboina Kavitha , Mani Geeta Sai , Shankaraiah Nagula , Kamal Ahmed
Published: April 2020

A facile iodine‐mediated unprecedented C–C cleavage by employing CuI has been established towards the synthesis of quinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones and benzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2‐c]quinazolines. This protocol involves peroxide free synthetic approach for the stable C–C bond cleavage followed by oxidative annulation to develop a library of fused N‐heterocyclic molecules.
Reinstating Structural Stability of Castor Oil based Flexible Polyurethane Foam using Glycerol
Authors: Hussain Shaik Aabid , Jain Rajan , Manchikanti Sindhu , Krishnamoorthy Karthik , Kumar Bal Dharmendra , Rahaman Ariful , Agashe Snehalata , Rehaan Chandan Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Use of castor oil as a renewable polyol in the polyurethane foams has been creating an attractive research interest for many researchers since last 5 decades. In this article, we examine the structural stability of flexible polyurethane foam produced using castor oil‐glycerol blend by complete replacement of synthetic polyol. Addition of castor oil in the foaming blend as a complete substitute of synthetic polyol results in instability of foam. However, addition of glycerol as a crosslinking agent in the blend helps in overcoming this instability. Cellular morphology, segmented phase morphology and bulk properties of foams were investigated using scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy respectively. Castor oil‐glycerol blend significantly improves the foaming process at low concentrations (till 15 wt % glycerol) whereas, at higher concentrations volumetric expanding liquid undergoes faster cross‐linking leading to retarded foam growth (above 20 wt % glycerol). Strut thickness shows a sharp decline at 25 wt % glycerol. Polymer phase morphology shows absence of H‐bonded urea resulting in discrete hard segmented morphology whereas urea domains undergo agglomeration without glycerol. Foams were also characterized for thermal and bulk mechanical properties.