bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Reproducible high cell density operations for Heterologous
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation processes
Authors:   , Ibañez Espinel Francisco
Published: December 2024

Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC) is widely used in biotechnology to produce
high-value indus trial compounds. Among its advantages are: a known genomic
sequence, defined nutritional re quirements, and the ability to grow at high
cellular densities. However, reaching densities above 100 g/L is challenging due
to the Crabtree effect or metabolic overflow, which can result in
ethanolproduction, an inhibitor of cell growth.To address this issue, automatic
control strategies have been developed aiming to keep growthbelow the critical
specific growth rate. These strategies largely rely on stationary or
dynamicmodels, either based on first principles or black-box approaches. In
general, the models strive toaccurately reflect the actual behavior of biomass
and key metabolites associated with SC growth,emphasizing precision and
simplicity.Despite the existence of experimentally validated advanced control
schemes, consistently reach ing biomass concentrations of 100 g/L has not been
achieved. Furthermore, many of these strate gies employ instrumentation not
typically available in industrial bioreactors, either due to their highcost or
insufficient reliability. Therefore, to optimize SC cultivation, it’s essential
to develop ad vanced automatic control strategies using reliable measurements
commonly available in industrialbioreactors (O2 gas, CO2 gas, pH, T, DO, among
others).The primary objective of this thesis was to design an automatic
operating system for manag ing SC cultures, aiming to achieve high cellular
densities consistently and reproducibly. Initially,the development of a dynamic
model was proposed to simulate the various observable metabolicstates in an SC
culture with cellular densities above 100 g/L. This model was later integrated
withadvanced control techniques, considering real conditions and potential
measurement noise. Fi nally, a state observer was designed to estimate
metabolites not directly measurable, crucial foroptimizing the controller. The
production of carotenogenic recombinant SC strains was used as acase study,
providing a relevant platform for effective and reproducible operation
demonstration ofhigh-density cultures.
Influencia de la asistencia a controles de salud y el rol del apoyo social en la duración de la lactancia materna y lactancia materna exclusiva a los seis meses
Authors:   , Vergara Illanes Teresita
Published: December 2024

La lactancia materna exclusiva (LME) hasta los 6 meses y la lactancia materna (LM) hasta los 2 años previenen la obesidad infantil. En Chile hay una tasa creciente de obesidad infantil, poca actualización de datos sobre lactancia y desconocimiento de la efectividad de la salud pública para promover esta práctica. Este estudio investigó la asociación entre la asistencia a controles de salud del Programa de Salud de la Infancia y la LME a los 6 meses. También evaluó la relación entre la asistencia a controles a los 12 meses y la duración de la LM. En ambas relaciones se consideró el rol del apoyo social percibido por la madre. Se realizó un estudio longitudinal con 523 díadas madre-bebé de dos cohortes del Centro de Investigación en Ambientes Alimentarios y Prevención de Enfermedades Crónicas Asociadas a la Nutrición en Santiago, Chile. Se emplearon análisis de regresión logística y lineal. Un 36% de las madres reportaron LME a los seis meses. La asistencia a controles de salud mostró una relación positiva con la LME a los seis meses y con la duración de la LM en 12 meses, aunque no fue estadísticamente significativa. El apoyo social y el nivel educativo de la madre se asociaron positivamente con la LME a los 6 meses, y el nivel educativo de la madre y la cohabitación con el padre se asociaron positivamente con la duración de la LM en 12 meses. Estos hallazgos sugieren focos para el desarrollo de políticas de LM en Chile, e invitan a seguir evaluando potenciales efectos de los controles de salud en la LM.
ESTUDIO DE CASO DE EXPERIENCIAS DE SUFRIMIENTO SOCIAL EN HIJOS/AS DE
PERUANOS/AS EN SANTIAGO DE CHILE: AGENCIAS ESTRATÉGICAS/VIOLENCIAS SEXUALES,
FÍSICAS Y SIMBÓLICAS EN LA SEGUNDA GENERACIÓN Y GENERACIONES 1.75, 1.5 Y 1.25
Authors:   , López Contreras Eleonora
Published: December 2024

La presente tesis doctoral constituye un análisis de Estudio de caso de las
experiencias de sufrimiento social en hijos/as de peruanos/as en Santiago de
Chile. Dicho análisis fue desarrollado mediante una investigación de corte
cualitativo, guiado por la perspectiva epistemológica y metodológica del
Extended Case Method a través de la utilización de entrevistas de historia de
vida. En esta investigación, el sufrimiento social constituyó un elemento de
análisis que posibilitó la articulación epistemológica, metodológica, teórica y
empírica de las fuerzas estructurales sobre, contra y en la agencia dentro de
trayectorias de vida. El análisis del sufrimiento social establece, durante la
infancia y adolescencia, coyunturas vitales en la experiencia social dentro de
la conformación de la subjetividad en la trayectoria de vida de las personas,
por ser momentos trascendentales en la conformación de la identidad personal
mediante la imagen social grupal (Bourdieu, 1999). En este sentido, surge un
peculiar desafío: ¿Cómo será posible analizar las infancias y las adolescencias
de los colectivos migrantes desde una perspectiva que permita la reconstrucción
de dichas etapas vitales? Por esto, la presente tesis analizó de forma
diacrónica, reconstruyendo mediante entrevistas de historias de vida, dichos
hitos en las trayectorias de vida de las personas hijos/as de peruanos/as en
edad adulta. Este estudio tiene la relevancia de ser el primer análisis en Chile
sobre segundas generaciones, así como sobre generaciones 1.75, 1.5 y 1.25 de
hijos/as de peruanos/as en Santiago, desde la reconstrucción de infancias y
adolescencias. Asimismo, contribuye a la visibilización de la influencia de
estructuras sociales –concretamente Formaciones nacionales de alteridad, la
presencia/ausencia de capitales económicos, sociales y culturales, el género, la
nacionalidad, la institución escolar y los Determinantes Sociales de la Salud–,
y su relación dinámica y dialéctica con sus agencias, a través de sus
experiencias de sufrimiento social dentro de su trayectoria de vida
–considerando su género, su clase social y su generación de pertenencia–.
Analysis of mycotoxins using laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry with infrared pulsed fiber laser-produced silver-109-nanoparticles
Authors:   Rzeszów University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, 6 Powstańców Warszawy Ave., 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland, Płaza-Altamer Aneta , Nizioł Joanna , Ruman Tomasz
Published: December 2024

Mycotoxins are biologically active secondary metabolites produced by specific fungi, known for their structural diversity and high chemical stability. Their synthesis is influenced by environmental factors, leading to regional variability. Mycotoxins, such as citrinin, ochratoxin A, patulin, roquefortine C, and sterigmatocystin, pose significant health risks to humans and animals. Common detection methods include chromatography and ELISA, with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) being the gold standard for its sensitivity and selectivity. Alternative methods, like laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS) offer unique advantages but face challenges like high background noise and low ionization efficiency for nonpolar compounds. This study concerns the detection and quantification of mycotoxins using silver-109 nanoparticles on a steel plate, produced via a novel pulsed fiber laser method with a 2D galvanometer scanner. Comparative analysis of manual LDI-MS and semi-automatic LDI-MSI for sterigmatocystin quantification highlights their effectiveness, providing a promising alternative for accurate mycotoxin analysis.
In-vitro Comparative Antioxidant Effects and Proximate Composition of Peeled and Unpeeled Pigeon-pea (Cajanus cajan) Seed
Authors: Shodehinde Sidiqat Adamson
Published: December 2024

Background: Pigeon pea is an economical source of natural antioxidants and its use could be a means of attaining prospect in ensuring food safety. This in vitro study intends to compare the primary constituents and oxidation inhibition potentials of peeled pigeon pea (PPP) and unpeeled pigeon pea (UPP) seed.
Methods: PPP and UPP samples were milled into flour and their corresponding soluble free phenolic extracts were prepared. Its flour was used to determine the proximate composition. The soluble-free phenolic extracts were used to assay for total phenols, total flavonoids, reducing property, DPPH radical scavenging ability iron-chelating ability and lipid peroxidation inhibition potential.
Results: Proximate composition of peeled pigeon pea (PPP) had higher fat and carbohydrate content while the protein, fibre, ash and moisture content were higher in unpeeled pigeon pea (UPP). The phenolic constituents and reducing property of the Peeled pigeon pea was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than that of unpeeled pigeon pea with the value (12.80 mg/g >11.85 mg/g), (6.07 mg/g > 5.46 mg/g) and (7.40 > 5.62) respectively. The results showed that both PPP and UPP extracts have antioxidant potentials. However, PPP had higher nitrogen monoxide (NO) radical scavenging ability and iron (Fe) chelating ability than UPP. Contrary to this trend, UPP exhibited greater DPPH radical scavenging activity and more effective inhibition of lipid malondialdehyde (MDA), the final byproduct of lipid peroxidation.
Conclusion: These findings provide additional evidence supporting the potential of pigeon pea as a natural source of antioxidants. The primary constituents, such as phenolics, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds, are likely responsible for its remarkable antioxidant properties. This highlights its value as a functional ingredient in the food industry, promoting its application in developing health-focused food products.
Correlation of Board Compensation and Non-performing Loans of Commercial Banks in Western Uganda
Authors: Muniru Sewanyina , Michael Manyange , David Nyambane , Tom Ongesa
Published: December 2024

Commercial banks across the globe are significantly impacted by Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) in terms of their profitability, liquidity, and potential insolvency. The presence of persistent NPLs undermines the lending capacity of financial institutions, resulting in a destabilization of finance and halting economic growth. While research has focused on the reasons behind NPLs, scant studies have revealed just how board remuneration functions, particularly in developing markets like Uganda. The issue. To address the gap, this study examines the connection between NPLs and board remuneration in commercial banks, focusing on two sub-constructs: Diversity and Expertise (BD) or Independence and Objectivity (BRb). In this study, descriptive, cross-sectional and correlational research designs were used using mixed-methods approaches. Using Slovin's formula and stratified, purposive, and random sampling methods, data was collected from 232 respondents out of a population of approximately 550. To gather the essential information, they conducted systematic questions and interviews, with a pilot study to verify its validity and reliability. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) were employed for quantitative analysis, while qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis using Nvivo software. Board independence and objectivity (BRb) were found to be more effective in reducing NPLs than diversity and expertise (BD) (path coefficient = 0.168). The SEM framework was deemed robust by its model fit indices, which were SRMR (0.08) and NFI (>0.90). Such findings also highlight the importance of making independent, unbiased decisions about credit risk reduction. The investigation into the relationship between board remuneration and NPLs in Uganda's banking sector is the first to provide fresh insights into governance factors in a new market. The outcomes offer practical recommendations for financial institutions and policymakers to create efficient compensation structures and governance mechanisms that can improve financial stability.
Aggressive interactions among female, semi‐captive pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) increase within the hierarchy and after short‐term removal of the male
Authors: Villagrán Matías , Freitas‐de‐Melo Aline , Bartoš Luděk , Ungerfeld Rodolfo
Published: February 2020

Two trials were carried out to determine: (a) if there is a positive relation between the frequency of aggressive interactions among female pampas deer and their position within the hierarchy (HI), (b) if short‐term removal of the male triggers an increase in the frequency of aggression, and (c) if the magnitude of this increase is related to the individual rank position of the female. Each of 19 breeding groups comprised one adult male and from four to six adult females. The HI was determined for each female and all aggressive interactions were recorded. These were recorded while the male was present (i.e., all of Trial 1 and the “with male” period in Trial 2) and after removal of the male (i.e., the “without male” period in Trial 2). The individual percentage change in the frequency of aggressive interactions after male removal was calculated. In Trial 1 the HI, the frequency of different types of aggressive interaction and the total of aggressive interactions were positively related (all: p < .001; General Linear Mixed Model [GLMM]). In Trial 2, the frequency of total aggressive interactions increased after male removal (F(1, 27) = 3.5; p < .001; GLMM). The individual percentage changes in aggressive interaction between periods were positively related to HI (F(6, 24) = 2.56; p = .05; GLMM). For female pampas deer maintained in breeding groups, we conclude that the frequency of aggressive interactions increases within the hierarchy. Aggression also increases after the short‐term removal of the male, mainly among females of higher social status.
Construction of Infrared‐Light‐Responsive Photoinduced Carriers Driver for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Dai Baoying , Fang Jiaojiao , Yu Yunru , Sun Menglong , Huang Hengming , Lu Chunhua , Kou Jiahui , Zhao Yuanjin , Xu Zhongzi
Published: February 2020

Infrared light, more than 50% of the solar light energy, is long‐termly ignored in the photocatalysis field due to its low photon energy. Herein, infrared‐light‐responsive photoinduced carriers driver is first constructed taking advantage of pyroelectric effect for enhancing photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. In order to give full play to its role, the photocatalytic reaction is localized on the surface and interface of the composite based on a new semi‐immersion type heat collected photocatalytic microfiber system. The system is consisted of distinctive pyroelectric substrate poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluropropylene (PVDF‐HFP), typical photothermal material carbon nanotube (CNT), and representative photocatalyst CdS. The transient photocurrent, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, time‐resolved photoluminescence and pyroelectric potential characterizations indicate that the infrared‐light‐responsive carriers driver significantly promotes the photogenerated charge separation, accelerates carrier migration, and prolongs carrier lifetime. The photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency is remarkably improved more than five times with the highest average apparent quantum yield of 16.9%. It may open up new horizons to photocatalytic technology for the more efficient use of infrared light.
Configurable Resistive Response in BaTiO3 Ferroelectric Memristors via Electron Beam Radiation
Authors: Molinari Alan , Witte Ralf , Neelisetty Krishna Kanth , Gorji Saleh , Kübel Christian , Münch Ingo , Wöhler Franziska , Hahn Lothar , Hengsbach Stefan , Bade Klaus , Hahn Horst , Kruk Robert
Published: February 2020

Ferroelectric oxide memristors are currently in the highlights of a thriving area of research aiming at the development of nonvolatile, adaptive memories for applications in neuromorphic computing. However, to date a precise control of synapse‐like functionalities by adjusting the interplay between ferroelectric polarization and resistive switching processes is still an ongoing challenge. Here, it is shown that by means of controlled electron beam radiation, a prototypical ferroelectric film of BaTiO3 can be turned into a memristor with multiple configurable resistance states. Ex situ and in situ analyses of current/voltage characteristics upon electron beam exposure confirm the quasi‐continuous variation of BaTiO3 resistance up to two orders of magnitude under the typical experimental conditions employed in electron beam patterning and characterization techniques. These results demonstrate an unprecedented effective route to locally and scalably engineering multilevel ferroelectric memristors via application of moderate electron beam radiation.
Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly of Nanofiber/Nanoparticle Artificial Skin for Strain‐Insensitive UV Shielding and Visualized UV Detection
Authors: Liang Fei , Fan You Jun , Kuang Shuang Yang , Wang Hai Lu , Wang Ying , Xu Peng , Wang Zhong Lin , Zhu Guang
Published: February 2020

Here, a strain‐insensitive, durable, and visualized ultraviolet (UV) detectible multilayered artificial UV shielding skin (MUVS‐skin) is demonstrated. The electrospinning of polyurethane nanofibers and electrospraying of TiO2 nanoparticles are alternatingly conducted to assemble the MUVS‐skin. The results show that the stability of UV shielding property under different strains (50%, 100%, 150%, and 200%) is enhanced as more layers are assembled. The ultraviolet protection factor of the strain‐free MUVS‐skin (119 µm) is 10 810 and reaches to 5685 at 200% strain. Moreover, the effective transmittance (at 365 nm) of MUVS‐skin (119 µm) after being stretched for 10 000 cycles at 200% strain is only 0.125%. This stable UV shielding property is ascribed to the low‐level variation in the porosity of the multilayered structure, which originates from the enhanced slippage between adjacent layers. Furthermore, ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) can be precisely detected as the luminescence of blue and red for the MUVS‐skin integrates with a phosphor layer (MUVS‐skin/P). Owing to the excellent stable UV shielding property, visualized UV detection and durability against cyclic deformation, this MUVS‐skin/P might be extensively applied to the smart wearable artificial skin and protective clothing.
Accelerating Atomic Catalyst Discovery by Theoretical Calculations‐Machine Learning Strategy
Authors: Sun Mingzi , Dougherty Alan William , Huang Bolong , Li Yuliang , Yan Chun‐Hua
Published: February 2020

Atomic catalysts (AC) are emerging as a highly attractive research topic, especially in sustainable energy fields. Lack of a full picture of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) impedes the future development of potential electrocatalysts. In this work, the systematic investigation of the HER process in graphdyine (GDY) based AC is presented in terms of the adsorption energies, adsorption trend, electronic structures, reaction pathway, and active sites. This comprehensive work innovatively reveals GDY based AC for HER covering all the transition metals (TM) and lanthanide (Ln) metals, enabling the screening of potential catalysts. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations carefully explore the HER performance beyond the comparison of sole H adsorption. Therefore, the screened catalysts candidates not only match with experimental results but also provide significant references for novel catalysts. Moreover, the machine learning (ML) technique bag‐tree approach is innovatively utilized based on the fuzzy model for data separation and converse prediction of the HER performance, which indicates a similar result to the theoretical calculations. From two independent theoretical perspectives (DFT and ML), this work proposes pivotal guidelines for experimental catalyst design and synthesis. The proposed advanced research strategy shows great potential as a general approach in other energy‐related areas.
The Role of Interlayer Chemistry in Li‐Metal Growth through a Garnet‐Type Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Kim Sewon , Jung Changhoon , Kim Hyunseok , Thomas‐Alyea Karen E. , Yoon Gabin , Kim Byunghoon , Badding Michael E. , Song Zhen , Chang JaeMyung , Kim Jusik , Im Dongmin , Kang Kisuk
Published: February 2020

Securing the chemical and physical stabilities of electrode/solid‐electrolyte interfaces is crucial for the use of solid electrolytes in all‐solid‐state batteries. Directly probing these interfaces during electrochemical reactions would significantly enrich the mechanistic understanding and inspire potential solutions for their regulation. Herein, the electrochemistry of the lithium/Li7La3Zr2O12‐electrolyte interface is elucidated by probing lithium deposition through the electrolyte in an anode‐free solid‐state battery in real time. Lithium plating is strongly affected by the geometry of the garnet‐type Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) surface, where nonuniform/filamentary growth is triggered particularly at morphological defects. More importantly, lithium‐growth behavior significantly changes when the LLZO surface is modified with an artificial interlayer to produce regulated lithium depositions. It is shown that lithium‐growth kinetics critically depend on the nature of the interlayer species, leading to distinct lithium‐deposition morphologies. Subsequently, the dynamic role of the interlayer in battery operation is discussed as a buffer and seed layer for lithium redistribution and precipitation, respectively, in tailoring lithium deposition. These findings broaden the understanding of the electrochemical lithium‐plating process at the solid‐electrolyte/lithium interface, highlight the importance of exploring various interlayers as a new avenue for regulating the lithium‐metal anode, and also offer insight into the nature of lithium growth in anode‐free solid‐state batteries.
Bevacizumab‐associated intestinal perforation and perioperative complications in patients receiving bevacizumab
Authors: Yoshimoto Toshiaki , Yoshikawa Kozo , Higashijima Jun , Miyatani Tomohiko , Tokunaga Takuya , Nishi Masaaki , Takasu Chie , Kashihara Hideya , Takehara Yukako , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: February 2020

Aim

The purposes of this study are to present cases of emergency surgery in which gastrointestinal perforation occurred during bevacizumab administration, consider the indications for emergency surgery, and examine the safety of scheduled surgery after a washout period for bevacizumab.

Methods

(a) We retrospectively investigated seven patients who underwent emergency surgery for bevacizumab‐associated intestinal perforation. (b) We investigated 104 patients with advanced colorectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant therapy who underwent surgery from 2008 to 2018, retrospectively.

Results

(a) In the seven patients undergoing emergency surgery for gastrointestinal perforation, the median bevacizumab administration and washout periods were 16 weeks and 24 days, respectively. A stoma was created in all patients except in those who were not candidates. Two patients developed postoperative abdominal abscesses, and two patients died from perioperative sepsis and gastrointestinal bleeding, respectively; both of these patients had poor performance status. (b) In patients receiving bevacizumab (n = 45) and patients treated with bevacizumab‐free regimens as neoadjuvant therapy (n = 59), 31 and 52 patients received chemoradiotherapy, respectively. We found no correlation with postoperative complications with or without bevacizumab.

Conclusion

The surgical indications should be considered carefully in patients with gastrointestinal perforation secondary to bevacizumab administration. Meanwhile, after appropriate cessation time, scheduled surgery following bevacizumab administration is feasible.
Effects of Friction Anisotropy on Upward Burrowing Behavior of Soft Robots in Granular Materials
Authors: Huang Sichuan , Tang Yong , Bagheri Hosain , Li Dongting , Ardente Alexandria , Aukes Daniel , Marvi Hamidreza , Tao Junliang (Julian)
Published: February 2020

Skins with asymmetric kirigami scales and soft spikes are integrated to the surface of a base self‐burrowing robot, which consists of a soft one‐segment extending actuator. Friction anisotropy is observed at the interfaces between the burrowing robots and different granular materials. Its effects on the pulling resistance and burrowing characteristics are studied. The results demonstrate that the development of friction and friction anisotropy is affected by the characteristics of the granular material, the asymmetric skins, and the relative size of the asymmetric features to the granular particles. Robots with scales or spikes aligned along the upward direction burrow faster than those aligned against the upward direction, especially in relatively coarser granular materials. Particle image velocimetry analysis on the particle displacement fields around the actuator reveals the complexity of dry granular material interactions with soft robots, implying that aligned scales or spikes can impact the distribution of friction preferentially, opening up many possibilities for thoughtful material and geometry‐based manipulation of friction in the design and optimization of future soft burrowing robots for more versatile locomotion capabilities.
Selective Acceptorless Dehydrogenation of Primary Amines to Imines by Core–Shell Cobalt Nanoparticles
Authors: Cui Xinjiang , Li Wu , Junge Kathrin , Fei Zhaofu , Beller Matthias , Dyson Paul J.
Published: February 2020

Core–shell nanocatalysts are attractive due to their versatility and stability. Here, we describe cobalt nanoparticles encapsulated within graphitic shells prepared via the pyrolysis of a cationic poly‐ionic liquid (PIL) with a cobalt(II) chloride anion. The resulting material has a core–shell structure that displays excellent activity and selectivity in the self‐dehydrogenation and hetero‐dehydrogenation of primary amines to their corresponding imines. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibits excellent activity in the synthesis of secondary imines from substrates with various reducible functional groups (C=C, C≡C and C≡N) and amino acid derivatives.
Aggregationsinduzierte Emission: Einblicke auf Aggregatebene
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Zhang Haoke , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2020

Aggregationsinduzierte Emissionen (AIEs) sind ein photophysikalisches Phänomen, bei dem Molekülaggregate stärkere Emissionen zeigen als die entsprechenden Einzelmoleküle. Im Laufe von nahezu 20 Jahren hat die Forschung zu AIEs große Erfolge in der Materialentwicklung, bei mechanistischen Arbeiten und bei Hochtechnologie‐Anwendungen erlebt. Diese Erfolge haben auch bewiesen, dass für molekulare Aggregate viele Eigenschaften und Funktionen beobachtet werden, die den entsprechenden molekularen Spezies fehlen. In diesem Aufsatz fassen wir die Fortschritte auf dem Gebiet der AIE und angrenzender Gebiete zusammen. Dabei konzentrieren wir uns auf die Eigenschaften neuer Materialien, die durch Aggregation jenseits der mikroskopischen molekularen Ebene entstehen. Wir hoffen, dass dieser Aufsatz weitere Forschungsarbeiten auf dem Gebiet molekularer Ensembles auf der Mesoebene und darüber hinaus inspirieren und so signifikante Fortschritte in den Material‐ und Biowissenschaften ermöglichen wird.
A Glutathione Activatable Ion Channel Induces Apoptosis in Cancer Cells by Depleting Intracellular Glutathione Levels
Authors: Malla Javid Ahmad , Umesh Rintu M. , Yousf Saleem , Mane Shrunal , Sharma Shilpy , Lahiri Mayurika , Talukdar Pinaki
Published: February 2020

Cancer cells use elevated glutathione (GSH) levels as an inner line of defense to evade apoptosis and develop drug resistance. In this study, we describe a novel 2,4‐nitrobenzenesulfonyl (DNS) protected 2‐hydroxyisophthalamide system that exploits GSH for its activation into free 2‐hydroxyisophthalamide forming supramolecular M+/Cl− channels. Better permeation of the DNS protected compound into MCF‐7 cells compared to the free 2‐hydroxyisophthalamide and GSH‐activatable ion transport resulted in higher cytotoxicity, which was associated with increased oxidative stress that further reduced the intracellular GSH levels and altered mitochondrial membrane permeability leading to the induction of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. The GSH‐activatable transport‐mediated cell death was further validated in rat insulinoma cells (INS‐1E); wherein the intracellular GSH levels showed a direct correlation to the resulting cytotoxicity. Lastly, the active compound was found to restrict the growth and proliferation of 3D spheroids of MCF‐7 cells with efficiency similar to that of the anticancer drug doxorubicin.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission: New Vistas at the Aggregate Level
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Zhang Haoke , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2020

Aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) describes a photophysical phenomenon in which molecular aggregates exhibit stronger emission than the single molecules. Over the course of the last 20 years, AIE research has made great strides in material development, mechanistic study and high‐tech applications. The achievements of AIE research demonstrate that molecular aggregates show many properties and functions that are absent in molecular species. In this review, we summarize the advances in the field of AIE and its related areas. We specifically focus on the new properties of materials attained by molecular aggregates beyond the microscopic molecular level. We hope this review will inspire more research into molecular ensembles at and beyond the meso level and lead to the significant progress in material and biological science.
Impact of maritime traffic and whale‐watching on apparent survival of bottlenose dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar
Authors: Tenan Simone , Hernández Noelia , Fearnbach Holly , de Stephanis Renaud , Verborgh Philippe , Oro Daniel
Published: February 2020

The Strait of Gibraltar is an important habitat for cetaceans due to its high marine productivity. However, it is also the second most navigated channel in the world, subjecting cetaceans to a high level of vessel traffic, including an established whale‐watching fleet. Both maritime traffic and whale‐watching activities have been shown to impact the behaviour of cetaceans, but little is known about their impact on the demography and dynamics of cetacean populations.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impacts of both ferry traffic and whale‐watching vessels on the apparent survival probability of a bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) population that occurs in the Strait.

A Bayesian hierarchical mark–recapture modelling approach was applied to 8 years of photo‐identification data (2002–2009). Apparent annual survival probability was negatively correlated with ferry traffic, which explained >70% of temporal variation in survival, in contrast to whale‐watching, the effect of which was almost negligible. Despite these results, other natural and human‐related factors are likely to drive apparent survival in the study area.

Abundance increased between 2002 and 2005, and then decreased between 2006 and 2009, while local per‐capita recruitment decreased from 2004 until the end of the study period. These shifts correlated temporally with the construction of a large harbour on the Moroccan coast, which increased maritime traffic significantly, including a 40% increase in ferry traffic that regularly transited the Strait.

These results highlight the need to better understand the impact of maritime traffic on the demography of the dolphin population in the Strait, in order to implement evidence‐based conservation regulations in a region of high cetacean occurrence.
Percutaneous intrarenal transplantation of differentiated induced pluripotent stem cells into newborn mice
Authors: Lau Ricky W. K. , Al‐Rubaie Ali , Saini Sheetal , Wise Andrea F. , Ricardo Sharon D.
Published: February 2020

The in vivo engraftment of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived podocytes following allogeneic transplantation into host kidneys remains a challenge. Here we investigate the survival and engraftment of human dermal fibroblasts‐derived differentiated iPSCs using a newborn mouse model, which represents a receptive immunoprivileged host environment. iPSCs were generated from skin biopsies of patients using Sendai virus reprogramming. Differentiation of nephrin (NPHS1)‐green fluorescent protein (GFP) iPSCs into kidney podocytes (iPSC‐PODs) was performed by the addition of Activin A, bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7), and retinoic acid over 10 days of culture. To assess the in vivo incorporation of cells, undifferentiated iPSCs or day 10 iPSC‐PODs, were labeled with either carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) or Qdot nanocrystals (Q705). Thereafter, 1 × 105 differentiated iPSC‐PODs were injected directly into the kidneys of mouse pups at postnatal day one (P1). Using co‐expression analysis of glomerular and podocyte‐specific markers, Day 10 differentiated iPSC‐PODs that were positive for podocin, were detected following direct kidney injection into newborn mice up to 1 week after transplantation. Undifferentiated iPSC‐PODs were not detected at the same timepoint. The transplanted cells were viable and located in the outer nephrogenic zone where they were found to colocalize with, or sit adjacent to, cells positive for glomerular‐specific markers including podocin, synaptopodin, and Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1). This study provides proof‐of‐principle that transplanted iPSC–POD can survive in recipient newborn mouse kidneys due to the immature and immunoprivileged nature of the developing postnatal kidneys.
Does spatial awareness training affect anatomy learning in medical students?
Authors: Gonzales Rene A. , Ferns Gordon , Vorstenbosch Marc A. T. M. , Smith Claire F.
Published: February 2020

Spatial ability (SA) is the cognitive capacity to understand and mentally manipulate concepts of objects, remembering relationships among their parts and those of their surroundings. Spatial ability provides a learning advantage in science and may be useful in anatomy and technical skills in health care. This study aimed to assess the relationship between SA and anatomy scores in first‐ and second‐year medical students. The training sessions focused on the analysis of the spatial component of objects' structure and their interaction as applied to medicine; SA was tested using the Visualization of Rotation (ROT) test. The intervention group (n = 29) received training and their pre‐ and post‐training scores for the SA tests were compared to a control group (n = 75). Both groups improved their mean scores in the follow‐up SA test (P < 0.010). There was no significant difference in SA scores between the groups for either SA test (P = 0.31, P = 0.90). The SA scores for female students were significantly lower than for male students, both at baseline and follow‐up (P < 0.010). Anatomy training and assessment were administered by the anatomy department of the medical school, and examination scores were not significantly different between the two groups post‐intervention (P = 0.33). However, participants with scores in the bottom quartile for SA performed worse in the anatomy questions (P < 0.001). Spatial awareness training did not improve SA or anatomy scores; however, SA may identify students who may benefit from additional academic support.
Rational Design and Engineering of Nanomaterials Derived from Prussian Blue and Its Analogs for Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Xuan Cuijuan , Zhang Jian , Wang Jie , Wang Deli
Published: February 2020

Electrochemical water splitting (EWS) is a sustainable and promising technology for producing hydrogen as an ideal energy carrier to address environmental and energy issues. Developing highly‐efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (HER and OER) is critical for increasing the efficiency of water electrolysis. Recently, nanomaterials derived from Prussian blue (PB) and its analogs (PBA) have received increasing attention in EWS applications owing to their unique composition and structure properties. In this Minireview, the latest progress of PB/PBA‐derived materials for EWS is presented. Firstly, the catalyst design principles and the advantages of preparing electrocatalysts with PB/PBA as precursors are briefly introduced. Then, strategies for enhancing the electrocatalytic performance (HER, OER or overall water splitting) were discussed in detail, and the recent development and applications of PB/PBA‐derived catalysts for EWS were summarized. Finally, major challenges and possible future trends related to PB/PBA‐derived functional materials are proposed.
Rare‐Earth‐Catalyzed C−H Silylation of Aromatic Heterocycles with Hydrosilanes
Authors: Xu Wenxuan , Teng Huailong , Luo Yong , Lou Shaojie , Nishiura Masayoshi , Hou Zhaomin
Published: February 2020

The catalytic C−H silylation of a variety of aromatic heterocycles such as furan, pyrrole and thiophene derivatives with secondary hydrosilanes has been achieved by using an yttrium metallocene complex. This protocol provides an efficient and straightforward way for the synthesis of a series of silylated heteroaromatic compounds containing tertiary silane moieties without the need for an additive or H2 acceptor.
Bayesian regression with spatiotemporal varying coefficients
Authors: Nieto‐Barajas Luis E.
Published: February 2020

To study the impact of climate variables on morbidity of some diseases in Mexico, we propose a spatiotemporal varying coefficients regression model. For that we introduce a new spatiotemporal‐dependent process prior, in a Bayesian context, with identically distributed normal marginal distributions and joint multivariate normal distribution. We study its properties and characterise the dependence induced. Our results show that the effect of climate variables, on the incidence of specific diseases, is not constant across space and time and our proposed model is able to capture and quantify those changes.
Light electric vehicle powertrain: Modeling, simulation, and experimentation for engineering students using PSIM
Authors: Vidal‐Bravo Salvador , De La Cruz‐Soto Javier , Arrieta Paternina Mario Roberto , Borunda Mónica , Zamora‐Mendez Alejandro
Published: February 2020

Electric transport has been gaining more interest and importance in the last years. Moreover, the variety of transport systems driven by an electric motor has also been increased. Therefore, it is very important to provide engineering students with solid and comprehensible knowledge, as well as handly tools, for modeling an electric traction system. So far, this has been a difficult task for undergraduate students due to a variety of subjects involved, such as electric machines, power converters, control systems, and load estimations. This work is intended to provide a detailed and comprehensible description of the analysis, modeling, and implementation of a powertrain of a light utility vehicle using power electronics simulation (PSIM) commercial software in order that the student acquires the required knowledge for analyzing multiple configurations in the powertrain.
Promoted Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Performance of Ru/C by Introducing TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Yajing , Zhu Quanxi , Xie Taiping , Peng Yuan , Liu Songli , Wang Jiankang
Published: February 2020

Higher water dissociation (Volmer step) energy barrier leads to the sluggish alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) rate. Since hydrophilic TiO2 can reduce water dissociation barrier while the widely studied Ru has nearly zero hydrogen adsorption Gibbs free energy, the combination of TiO2 and Ru/C might collectively enhance Volmer and Heyrovsky/Tafel step and finally promote HER performance. Herein, Ru/C−TiO2 with average size of 3.6 nm for Ru was synthesized by a two‐step process. It presented superior alkaline HER activity with η10 of 44 mV, better than that of Ru/C (107 mV), Pt/C (84 mV) and C−TiO2 with negligible activity. The prominent HER performance was due to synergistic effect between TiO2 and Ru, which greatly expedited water dissociation for intermediate hydrogen production and the following electrochemical hydrogen desorption for producing H2. This work combines specific active sites for different elementary steps and then boosts alkaline HER performance, which provide a guide for designing efficient and stable HER electrocatalyst.
Further Evidence for ‘Extended’ Cumulene Complexes: Derivatives from Reactions with Halide Anions and Water
Authors: Hall Michael R. , Steen Rachel R. , Korb Marcus , Sobolev Alexandre N. , Moggach Stephen A. , Lynam Jason M. , Low Paul J.
Published: February 2020

Reactions of [Ru{C=C(H)‐1,4‐C6H4C≡CH}(PPh3)2Cp]BF4 ([1 a]BF4) with hydrohalic acids, HX, results in the formation of [Ru{C≡C‐1,4‐C6H4‐C(X)=CH2}(PPh3)2Cp] [X=Cl (2 a‐Cl), Br (2 a‐Br)], arising from facile Markovnikov addition of halide anions to the putative quinoidal cumulene cation [Ru(=C=C=C6H4=C=CH2)(PPh3)2Cp]+. Similarly, [M{C=C(H)‐1,4‐C6H4‐C≡CH}(LL)Cp ]BF4 [M(LL)Cp’=Ru(PPh3)2Cp ([1 a]BF4); Ru(dppe)Cp* ([1 b]BF4); Fe(dppe)Cp ([1 c]BF4); Fe(dppe)Cp* ([1 d]BF4)] react with H+/H2O to give the acyl‐functionalised phenylacetylide complexes [M{C≡C‐1,4‐C6H4‐C(=O)CH3}(LL)Cp’] (3 a–d) after workup. The Markovnikov addition of the nucleophile to the remote alkyne in the cations [1 a–d]+ is difficult to rationalise from the vinylidene form of the precursor and is much more satisfactorily explained from initial isomerisation to the quinoidal cumulene complexes [M(=C=C=C6H4=C=CH2)(LL)Cp’]+ prior to attack at the more exposed, remote quaternary carbon. Thus, whilst representative acetylide complexes [Ru(C≡C‐1,4‐C6H4‐C≡CH)(PPh3)2Cp] (4 a) and [Ru(C≡C‐1,4‐C6H4‐C≡CH)(dppe)Cp*] (4 b) reacted with the relatively small electrophiles [CN]+ and [C7H7]+ at the β‐carbon to give the expected vinylidene complexes, the bulky trityl ([CPh3]+) electrophile reacted with [M(C≡C‐1,4‐C6H4‐C≡CH)(LL)Cp’] [M(LL)Cp’=Ru(PPh3)2Cp (4 a); Ru(dppe)Cp* (4 b); Fe(dppe)Cp (4 c); Fe(dppe)Cp* (4 d)] at the more exposed remote end of the carbon‐rich ligand to give the putative quinoidal cumulene complexes [M{C=C=C6H4=C=C(H)CPh3}(LL)Cp’]+, which were isolated as the water adducts [M{C≡C‐1,4‐C6H4‐C(=O)CH2CPh3}(LL)Cp’] (6 a–d). Evincing the scope of the formation of such extended cumulenes from ethynyl‐substituted arylvinylene precursors, the rather reactive half‐sandwich (5‐ethynyl‐2‐thienyl)vinylidene complexes [M{C=C(H)‐2,5‐cC4H2S‐C≡CH}(LL)Cp’]BF4 ([7 a–d]BF4 add water readily to give [M{C≡C‐2,5‐cC4H2S‐C(=O)CH3}(LL)Cp’] (8 a–d)].
Probing the Electrostatic Barrier of Tetrathiafulvalene Dications using a Tetra‐stable Donor–Acceptor [2]Rotaxane
Authors: Jensen Morten , Kristensen Rikke , Andersen Sissel S. , Bendixen Dan , Jeppesen Jan O.
Published: February 2020

A tetra‐stable donor–acceptor [2]rotaxane1⋅4PF6has been synthesized. The dumbbell component is comprised of an oxyphenylene (OP), a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF), a monopyrrolo‐TTF (MPTTF), and a hydroquinone (HQ) unit, which can act as recognition sites (stations) for the tetra‐cationic cyclophane cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene) (CBPQT4+). The TTF and the MPTTF stations are located in the middle of the dumbbell component and are connected by a triethylene glycol (TEG) chain in such a way that the pyrrole moiety of the MPTTF station points toward the TTF station, while the TTF and MPTTF stations are flanked by the OP and HQ stations on their left hand side and right hand side, respectively. The [2]rotaxane was characterized in solution by1H NMR spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The spectroscopic data revealed that the majority (77 %) of the tetra‐stable [2]rotaxane14+exist as the translational isomer1⋅MPTTF4+in which the CBPQT4+ring encircles the MPTTF station. The electrochemical studies showed that CBPQT4+in1⋅MPTTF4+undergoes ring translation as result of electrostatic repulsion from the oxidized MPTTF unit. Following tetra‐oxidation of1⋅MPTTF4+, a high‐energy state of18+was obtained (i.e.,1⋅TEG8+) in which the CBPQT4+ring was located on the TEG linker connecting the di‐oxidized TTF2+and MPTTF2+units.1H NMR spectroscopy carried out in CD3CN at 298 K on a chemically oxidized sample of1⋅MPTTF4+revealed that the metastable state1⋅TEG8+is only short‐lived with a lifetime of a few minutes and it was found that 70 % of the positively charged CBPQT4+ring moved from1⋅TEG8+to the HQ station, while 30 % moved to the much weaker OP station. These results clearly demonstrate that the CBPQT4+ring can cross both an MPTTF2+and a TTF2+electrostatic barrier and that the free energy of activation required to cross MPTTF2+is ca. 0.5 kcal mol−1smaller as compared to TTF2+.
Outcomes of rituximab‐BEAM versus BEAM conditioning regimen in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma undergoing autologous transplantation
Authors: Jagadeesh Deepa , Majhail Navneet S. , He Yizeng , Ahn Kwang W. , Litovich Carlos , Ahmed Sairah , Aljurf Mahmoud , Bacher Ulrike , Badawy Sherif M. , Bejanyan Nelli , Cairo Mitchell , Cerny Jan , Epperla Narendranath , Farhadfar Nosha , Freytes César O. , Gale Robert Peter , Haverkos Bradley , Hossain Nasheed , Inwards David , Kamble Rammurti T. , Kenkre Vaishalee P. , Lazarus Hillard M. , Lazaryan Aleksandr , Lekakis Lazaros , Mei Matthew , Murthy Hemant S. , Mussetti Alberto , Nathan Sunita , Nishihori Taiga , Olsson Richard F. , Ramakrishnan Geethakumari Praveen , Savani Bipin N. , Yared Jean A. , Fenske Timothy S. , Kharfan‐Dabaja Mohamed A. , Sureda Anna , Hamadani Mehdi
Published: February 2020

Background

Although rituximab‐based high‐dose therapy is frequently used in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (auto‐HCT), data supporting the benefits are not available. Herein, we report the impact of rituximab‐based conditioning on auto‐HCT outcomes in patients who have DLBCL.

Methods

Using the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) registry, 862 adult DLBCL patients undergoing auto‐HCT between 2003 and 2017 using BEAM (BCNU, etoposide, cytarabine, melphalan) conditioning regimen were included. All patients received frontline rituximab‐containing chemoimmunotherapy and had chemosensitive disease pre‐HCT. Early chemoimmunotherapy failure was defined as not achieving complete remission (CR) after frontline chemoimmunotherapy or relapse within 1 year of initial diagnosis. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS).

Results

The study cohort was divided into 2 groups: BEAM (n = 667) and R‐BEAM (n = 195). On multivariate analysis, no significant difference was seen in OS (P = .83) or progression‐free survival (PFS) (P = .61) across the 2 cohorts. No significant association between the use of rituximab and risk of relapse (P = .15) or nonrelapse mortality (P = .12) was observed. Variables independently associated with lower OS included older age at auto‐HCT (P < .001), absence of CR at auto‐HCT (P < .001) and early chemoimmunotherapy failure (P < .001). Older age (P < .0002) and non‐CR pre‐HCT (P < .0001) were also associated with inferior PFS. There was no significant difference in early infectious complications between the 2 cohorts.

Conclusion

In this large registry analysis of DLBCL patients undergoing auto‐HCT, the addition of rituximab to the BEAM conditioning regimen had no impact on transplantation outcomes. Older age, absence of CR pre auto‐HCT, and early chemoimmunotherapy failure were associated with inferior survival.
Latest advances in parallel, distributed, and network‐based processing
Authors: Merelli Ivan , Liò Pietro , Kotenko Igor , D'Agostino Daniele
Published: February 2020

This editorial introduces the articles selected for the special issue concerning the International Conferences on Parallel, Distributed, and Network‐Based Processing, which provided insights related to the efficient exploitation of parallel and distributed architectures, including power‐aware computing, application scheduling, and application development for GPUs.