bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrathinning Nickel Sulfide with Modulated Electron Density for Efficient Water Splitting
Authors: Fei Ben , Chen Ziliang , Liu Jiexian , Xu Hongbin , Yan Xiaoxiao , Qing Huilin , Chen Mao , Wu Renbing
Published: September 2020

Developing nonprecious electrocatalysts via a cost‐effective methods to synergistically achieve high active sites exposure and optimized intrinsic activity remains a grand challenge. Here a low‐cost and scaled‐up chemical etching method is developed for transforming nickel foam (NF) into a highly active electrocatalyst for both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The synthetic method involves a Na2S‐induced chemical etching of NF in the presence of Fe, leading to a growth of ultrathin Fe‐doped Ni3S2 arrays on the NF substrate (FexNi3‐xS2 @ NF). The combined experimental and theoretical investigations reveal that the incorporated Fe cations significantly modulate the morphology and the surface electron density of Ni3S2, and thus significantly boost the electrochemically active surface area, electron transfer, and optimize the hydrogen/water absorption free energy. The developed Fe0.9Ni2.1S2 @ NF requires overpotentials of only 72 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for HER and 252 mV at 100 mA cm−2 for OER in 1.0 m KOH, respectively, enabling an alkaline electrolyzer at a low cell voltage of 1.51 V to drive 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting. More broadly, this synthetic approach is very versatile and can be used to synthesize other ultrathin metal sulfides (e.g., Fe–Cu–S, Fe–Al–S, and Fe–Ti–S).
Li10GeP2S12‐Type Superionic Conductors: Synthesis, Structure, and Ionic Transportation
Authors: Kato Yuki , Hori Satoshi , Kanno Ryoji
Published: September 2020

Ever since the first report on Li10GeP2S12 (LGPS) in 2011, its unique structure and exceptionally high lithium conductivity (>1 × 10−2 S cm−1) have attracted extensive interest, especially for applications in solid‐state ionics and batteries. Herein, studies of LGPS and its modifications are reviewed with a focus on the synthesis, structure, and ionic transportation of LGPS. For material synthesis, the relationships between LGPS and its precursor compounds such as Li3PS4 and Li4GeS4 are discussed. A technique for single‐crystal growth and a family of LGPS‐type materials that are chemically or structurally related to LGPS are then described. The crystal structure of LGPS is analyzed from the viewpoints of tetrahedral framework units, anion sublattice, and Li distributions; furthermore, the conduction mechanism is qualitatively analyzed. Subsequently, ionic transportation in LGPS is studied quantitatively. The origin of the high conductivity is discussed in terms of the activation energy, diffusion coefficient, and its related parameters; and these factors are compared to those of other non‐LGPS‐type conductors. Then, the battery applications are briefly summarized to indicate the potential merits of using LGPS‐type solid electrolytes with high lithium conductivity. Any remaining issues and possible research directions that have emerged from the aforementioned studies are finally highlighted.
Conjugated Polymer Nanomaterials for Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Dai Chunhui , Pan Yutong , Liu Bin
Published: September 2020

Exploration of robust and inexpensive photocatalysts for direct water splitting is highly desirable for solar energy utilization but remains a great challenge. Although some inorganic semiconductors have shown very promising activities, many suffer from low quantum efficiency and insufficient sunlight absorption or present environmental hazards. In recent years, conjugated polymer nanomaterials have rapidly become one of the most appealing candidates in photocatalysis, owing to their facile molecular functionalization, tunable optoelectronic properties, and good chemical stability. This essay highlights the recent advancement of conjugated polymer nanomaterials for solar water splitting. The research opportunities related to water photolysis together with the perspective and challenges in the field are discussed to inspire further exciting research in water splitting.
Fibrous Materials for Flexible Li–S Battery
Authors: Gao Yuan , Guo Qianyi , Zhang Qiang , Cui Yi , Zheng Zijian
Published: September 2020

The lithium–sulfur (Li–S) battery is an attractive high‐energy‐density technology for future flexible and wearable electronics, but it is a challenge to simultaneously realize adequate flexibility, stability, and energy density. Recent studies show that fibrous materials are promising to achieve flexible batteries with high energy density, by taking advantages of their intrinsic flexibility, lightweight, large surface area, and cost‐effectiveness. With a good tunability of the structure and function, fibrous materials can be suitable to construct various components of a working battery, including current collectors, buffer layers, interlayers, and solid‐state electrolytes. This review summarizes the recent development of fibrous materials for flexible Li–S batteries, with an emphasis on the discussion of the synthesis and preparation of materials, design of fibrous structures and functionalities, and layout of battery cells for achieving high Coulombic efficiency, long cycle life, and good flexibility.
High Power Factor and Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance in Sc and Bi Codoped GeTe: Insights into the Hidden Role of Rhombohedral Distortion Degree
Authors: Liu Zihang , Gao Weihong , Zhang Wenhao , Sato Naoki , Guo Quansheng , Mori Takao
Published: September 2020

Modification of crystal symmetry induced by chemical doping or alloying is well known to optimize the charge carrier transport properties in thermoelectric materials. Historically, the altered defect chemistry of the targeted materials, however, has long been neglected or underestimated, which may, in turn, favorably or adversely affect the thermoelectric properties. Herein, using a case study of thermoelectric GeTe, first, the hidden role of rhombohedral distortion degree on the Ge‐vacancy formation energy is theoretically unraveled, and it is experimentally found that Sc and Bi codoping realize a superior thermoelectric performance. Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the distorted rhombohedral lattice closer to cubic would unexpectedly induce the significantly decreased formation energy of Ge vacancies, resulting in the spontaneous formation of higher‐concentration Ge vacancies. Sc doping is found to be the most effective dopant to reduce the carrier concentration without obviously affecting the rhombohedral distortion degree, leading to the realization of a record‐high power factor. Benefiting from the suppressed thermal conductivity by further Bi doping, an ultrahigh average ZT ≈1.2 from 300 to 723 K is achieved. These discoveries provide new insights into the relationship between crystal symmetry and defect chemistry, and also promote GeTe materials for future thermoelectric applications.
Identification of wetting agents for water conservation on deficit‐irrigated hybrid bermudagrass fairways
Authors: Xiang Mingying , Schiavon Marco , Orlinski Pawel , Forconi Alessio , Baird James H.
Published: September 2020

Wetting agents have been reported to alleviate localized dry spot and save water while maintaining turf quality at an acceptable level. However, limited research has been conducted on comparing the effects of different wetting agent products. A study was conducted from May to October in 2018 and 2019 in Riverside, CA to evaluate 10 wetting agent treatments on performance of ‘Tifway II’ hybrid bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy] under deficit irrigation at three reference evapotranspiration (ETo) levels: 45, 55, and 65% ETo. Ten wetting agent treatments were selected based on manufacturer recommendations. Plots were evaluated for visual turf quality, percent green cover (PGC), dark green color index, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), soil volumetric water content, soil moisture variability, and proline content in dry‐leaf samples. Wetting agent treatments improved turf quality and PGC, and decreased soil moisture variability. Moreover, up to 16% increase in soil moisture levels was observed on treated vs. untreated control. No differences were observed for NDVI, proline content in leaves, or fall color retention. Overall, soil moisture variability declined in 2019, and turf quality improved in both years when any wetting agent treatment was applied, and only minor differences were observed among wetting agent treatments evaluated in this study. Other physiological indicators and soil rootzone characteristics are needed to gauge the effects of wetting agents under deficit‐irrigated turfgrass.
Consequences of treatment for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in a patient with undiagnosed Gaucher disease Type 1
Authors: Anderson Hans E. , Taylor Matthew R. G.
Published: September 2020

Gaucher disease, a lysosomal storage disorder and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a disorder of the immune system, have several overlapping clinical features including cytopenias, elevated serum ferritin, and splenomegaly. Prior reports of acute infantile neuronopathic, Type 2 Gaucher disease manifesting with signs of HLH have been published. Here we describe an adult patient who was initially suspected of having HLH, and was treated with a 10‐day course of etoposide and a 5‐day course alemtuzumab for presumptive HLH, only to later to have his presentation be determined to be due to Type 1 Gaucher disease. HLH chemotherapy treatment appeared to trigger a severe Gaucher acute pain crisis and extensive bony disease including avascular necrosis. Prolonged immunosuppression, and recurrent infections further complicated a lengthy hospitalization. We discuss the clinical overlap between Gaucher and HLH and the iatrogenic consequences of HLH‐directed therapy on underlying Type 1 Gaucher disease.
Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome in diverse populations
Authors: Tekendo‐Ngongang Cedrik , Owosela Babajide , Fleischer Nicole , Addissie Yonit A. , Malonga Bryan , Badoe Ebenezer , Gupta Neerja , Moresco Angélica , Huckstadt Victoria , Ashaat Engy A. , Hussen Dalia Farouk , Luk Ho‐Ming , Lo Ivan F. M. , Hon‐Yin Chung Brian , Fung Jasmine L. F. , Moretti‐Ferreira Danilo , Batista Letícia Cassimiro , Lotz‐Esquivel Stephanie , Saborio‐Rocafort Manuel , Badilla‐Porras Ramses , Penon Portmann Monica , Jones Kelly L. , Abdul‐Rahman Omar A. , Uwineza Annette , Prijoles Eloise J. , Ifeorah Ifeanyi Kanayo , Llamos Paneque Arianne , Sirisena Nirmala D. , Dowsett Leah , Lee Sansan , Cappuccio Gerarda , Kitchin Carolyn Sian , Diaz‐Kuan Alicia , Thong Meow‐Keong , Obregon María Gabriela , Mutesa Leon , Dissanayake Vajira H. W. , El Ruby Mona O. , Brunetti‐Pierri Nicola , Ekure Ekanem Nsikak , Stevenson Roger E. , Muenke Maximilian , Kruszka Paul
Published: September 2020

Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome (RSTS) is an autosomal dominant disorder, caused by loss‐of‐function variants in CREBBP or EP300. Affected individuals present with distinctive craniofacial features, broad thumbs and/or halluces, and intellectual disability. RSTS phenotype has been well characterized in individuals of European descent but not in other populations. In this study, individuals from diverse populations with RSTS were assessed by clinical examination and facial analysis technology. Clinical data of 38 individuals from 14 different countries were analyzed. The median age was 7 years (age range: 7 months to 47 years), and 63% were females. The most common phenotypic features in all population groups included broad thumbs and/or halluces in 97%, convex nasal ridge in 94%, and arched eyebrows in 92%. Face images of 87 individuals with RSTS (age range: 2 months to 47 years) were collected for evaluation using facial analysis technology. We compared images from 82 individuals with RSTS against 82 age‐ and sex‐matched controls and obtained an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.99 (p < .001), demonstrating excellent discrimination efficacy. The discrimination was, however, poor in the African group (AUC: 0.79; p = .145). Individuals with EP300 variants were more effectively discriminated (AUC: 0.95) compared with those with CREBBP variants (AUC: 0.93). This study shows that clinical examination combined with facial analysis technology may enable earlier and improved diagnosis of RSTS in diverse populations.
PPP1R21‐related syndromic intellectual disability: Report of an adult patient and review
Authors: Loddo Sara , Alesi Viola , Radio Francesca Clementina , Genovese Silvia , Di Tommaso Silvia , Calvieri Giusy , Orlando Valeria , Bertini Enrico , Dentici Maria Lisa , Novelli Antonio , Dallapiccola Bruno
Published: September 2020

Variants in PPP1R21 were recently found to be associated with an autosomal recessive intellectual disability syndrome in 9 individuals. Our patient, the oldest among the known subjects affected by PPP1R21‐related syndrome, manifested intellectual disability, short stature, congenital ataxia with cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, generalized hypertrichosis, ulcerative keratitis, muscle weakness, progressive coarse appearance, macroglossia with fissured tongue, and deep palmar and plantar creases. We provide an overview of the clinical spectrum and natural history of this newly recognized disorder, arguing the emerging notion that PPP1R21 gene mutations could result in endolysosomal functional defects. The oldest patients could display a more severe clinical outcome, due to accumulation of metabolites or damage secondary to an alteration of the autophagy pathway. Follow‐up of patients with PPP1R21 mutations is recommended for improving the understanding of PPP1R21‐related syndromic intellectual disability.
Confessions and Redemption—and Politics—For an Un‐Neutral Person Who Mediates
Authors: Aaron Marjorie Corman
Published: September 2020

My color choices are bold over neutral. I am not known for taking anything but strong positions on politics, economics, education, ethics, aesthetics, you name it. My political views are now so strongly formed and deeply felt that I avoid learning political affiliations of mediation parties or lawyers, or my students, to preserve my ability to serve as a neutral mediator or fair professor. I hereby confess that I reject editorial columnists' scolding to respect the other side in political conversations, unless to gain insight and strategic advantage for their eventual persuasion.
Synthesis and characterization of mesoporous organosilica supported palladium (SBA‐Pr‐NCQ‐Pd) as an efficient nanocatalyst in the Mizoroki–Heck coupling reaction
Authors: Moradi Razieh , Mohammadi Ziarani Ghodsi , Badiei Alireza , Mohajer Fatemeh
Published: September 2020

In the present study, the modification of a mesoporous organosilica nanocomposite SBA‐15 (Santa Barbara Amorphous 15) was carried out in two steps, first through the surface functionalization of SBA‐Pr‐NH2 with 2‐chloroquinoline‐3‐carbaldehyde to form SBA‐Pr‐NCQ, and then through a post‐modification process with palladium ions. The target nanocompound structure of SBA‐Pr‐NCQ‐Pd was characterized by different techniques (thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy). The catalytic performance of the porous inorganic–organic hybrid nanocomposite (SBA‐Pr‐NCQ‐Pd) in one of the most important carbon–carbon bond‐forming processes, the Mizoroki–Heck coupling reaction of aryl halides and methacrylate in water/ethanol media, was examined. Compared to previous reports, this protocol afforded some advantages, such as high yields of products, short reaction times, catalyst stability without leaching, simple methodology, easy workup, and greener conditions. Also, the nanocatalyst can be easily separated from the reaction mixture and reused several times without a significant decrease in activity and promises economic as well as environmental benefits.
Fabrication of robust self‐cleaning superhydrophobic coating by deposition of polymer layer on candle soot surface
Authors: Sutar Rajaram S. , Latthe Sanjay S. , Nagappan Saravanan , Ha Chang‐Sik , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Liu Shanhu , Xing Ruimin , Bhosale Appasaheb K.
Published: September 2020

A facile and inexpensive way have been developed to fabricate robust self‐cleaning superhydrophobic coating by depositing polymer layer on candle soot (CS) surface using dip coating method. The stability and robustness of the CS deposited superhydrophobic surface is much weaker due to weak interaction and nonchemical bonding with the substrate. We introduced a thin layer of polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene (PP), and polyvinylidene fluoride on CS surface in order to improve its mechanical properties. The fabricated surfaces with the use of respective polymers exhibited water contact angles of nearly 170, 174, 175, and 171° with sliding angles of 2, 1, 1, and 3°, respectively. Although, all the polymers used in this work exhibited excellent superhydrophobic and self‐cleaning surface property, we found that the PP deposited CS surface exhibit better stability against water jet hitting and water drop impact tests. The PP deposited CS surface almost maintained their surface properties even after 50 cycles of sandpaper abrasion and 20 cycles of adhesive tape peeling tests. The mechanical durability tests confirmed that PP is a better polymer to improve the long‐term durability of CS surface. Therefore, this simple, time saving, and inexpensive method for fabricating superhydrophobic coating can be used for potential industrial application.
Comparative study on the electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties of multiwalled carbon nanotubes filled polypropylene and polyamide 6 micromoldings
Authors: Mei Junqi , Lei Xue , Liang Mei , Wu Hang , Zhou Shengtai , Zou Huawei , Chen Yang
Published: September 2020

In this work, a series of carbon nanotubes filled polypropylene (PP/CNT) and polyamide 6 (PA6/CNT) composites were prepared by melt blending and subsequently molded by compression molding and microinjection molding (μIM), respectively. Electrical conductivity results indicate that the percolation threshold of corresponding microparts shifted to higher filler concentrations when compared with that of compression molded counterparts, suggesting the prevailing shearing conditions in μIM is unfavorable for the construction of conductive pathways. In addition, Raman spectral analysis shows that there is a preferential alignment of CNTs along the flow direction of microparts. Thermal properties of both melt blended samples and subsequent microparts were evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The mechanical properties of subsequent microparts are greatly affected by filler concentration, which might be related to the structural change that induced by the state of dispersion of CNTs.
Preparation and characterization of ethanol‐induced chitosan‐glutaric anhydride hydrogel for biomedical applications
Authors: Lei Zhou , Huang Ruiqi , Li Xuqin , Fang Zhou , Sheng Jie , Song Yishan
Published: September 2020

Here we report a novel, fast, and facile sythesis of chitosan‐based hydrogels by ethanol directly inducing. In the present of ethanol, chitosan (CS) with glutaric anhydride (GA) could form hydrogels (CS‐GA‐Hs) just in few minutes. The results of 1H NMR and FTIR confirmed N‐acylation substitution of chitosan. Furthermore, the relative concentration of GA was also the critical parameter for formation and properties of CS‐GA‐Hs. When the concentration was 1.5, CS‐GA‐Hs showed the highest swelling (253.6%) and release degree (99.9%). The porous structure of CS‐GA‐Hs were observed by SEM and the pore size of the gels decreased from 500 to 200 μm, when the relative concentration of GA was changed from 1.5 to 4. And all the hydrogels were demonstrated a good mechanical properties. Additionally, the CS‐GA‐Hs showed in vitro antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and no cytotoxicity toward L929 mouse fibroblasts, meaning it has potential applications in biomedical fields.
Synergetic toughening of poly(phenylene sulfide) by poly(phenylsulfone) and poly(ethylene‐ran‐methacrylate‐ran‐glycidyl methacrylate)
Authors: Nara Saori , Sagawa Hiroki , Saito Hiromu , Oyama Hideko T.
Published: September 2020

Poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) is a high‐performance super‐engineering plastic, but is brittle. In this study, super‐tough PPS‐based blends were successfully generated by melt blending PPS with poly(ethylene‐ran‐methacrylate‐ran‐glycidyl methacrylate) (EGMA) and poly(phenylsulfone) (PPSU) at (56/14/30) PPS/EGMA/PPSU composition, and their toughening mechanisms were investigated in detail. It was demonstrated the interfacial reaction between PPS and EGMA and partial miscibility between PPS and PPSU, both play important synergistic roles on the toughening. The interfacial reaction between PPS and EGMA contributes to the reduction of the PPSU domain size by the increased viscosity of the PPS matrix containing EGMA, and the increased mobility of EGMA chains by negative pressure effect. The partial miscibility between PPS and PPSU contributes to the increased interfacial adhesion between PPS and PPSU, resulting in effective propagation of the impact to the domains, and the increased mobility of not only PPSU chains but also PPS chains, causing a reduction in crystallization.
Synthesis and in silico studies of triazene‐substituted sulfamerazine derivatives as acetylcholinesterase and carbonic anhydrases inhibitors
Authors: Bilginer Sinan , Gul Halise I. , Anil Baris , Demir Yeliz , Gulcin Ilhami
Published: September 2020

A novel series of sulfonamides, 4‐(3‐phenyltriaz‐1‐en‐1‐yl)‐N‐(4‐methyl‐2‐pyrimidinyl)benzenesulfonamides (1–9), was designed and synthesized by the diazo reaction between sulfamerazine and substituted aromatic amines for the first time. Their chemical structures were characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, and high‐resolution mass spectra. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated in terms of acetylcholineasterase (AChE) and human carbonic anhydrases (hCA) I and II isoenzymes inhibitory activities. According to the AChE inhibition results, the Ki values of the compounds 1–9 were in the range of 19.9 ± 1.5 to 96.5 ± 20.7 nM against AChE. Tacrine was used as the reference drug and its Ki value was 49.2 ± 2.7 nM against AChE. The Ki values of the compounds 1–9 were in the range of 10.2 ± 2.6 to 101.4 ± 27.8 nM against hCA I, whereas they were 18.3 ± 4.4 to 48.1 ± 4.5 nM against hCA II. Acetazolamide was used as a reference drug and its Ki values were 72.2 ± 5.4 and 52.2 ± 5.7 nM against hCA I and hCA II, respectively. The most active compounds, 1 (nonsubstituted) against AChE, 5 (4‐ethoxy‐substituted) against hCA I, and 8 (4‐bromo‐substituted) against hCA II, were chosen and docked at the binding sites of these enzymes to explain the inhibitory activities of the series. The newly synthesized compounds presented satisfactory pharmacokinetic properties via the estimation of ADME properties.
Motor driving/braking control scheme with integration of multiple driving components
Authors: Tu Chia‐Hung , Chang Yu‐Chen , Lin Chun‐Liang , Liu Van‐Tsai
Published: September 2020

This paper develops a modular multilevel inverter which integrates driving/braking control schemes in a unit for electric vehicles. The multiple driving components are used to balance surge voltage/current across the last stage power MOSFETs due to abrupt back electromotive force (EMF) generated by the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM). A fundamental unit of the motor driver generally consists of multiple power MOSFETs connected in series/parallel with a braking resistor. These units can be assembled according to the design. In practice, when a PMSM is driven due to inertia rotation, it becomes a power generator which would induce back EMF caused by magnetic induction when a braking command is applied to the driver. If one tries to increase braking effect by reversing driving torque with any approaches for immediately or fast stopping the rotating motor, it commonly leads to switching element breakdown due to the surge counter EMF. In this paper, with the expandable series–parallel design of the inverter circuit, surge voltage/current is dispersed in a balanced manner. Compared with conventional three‐phase motor driver design, the proposed one possesses better durability. Also, it reduces hardware cost since it allows low‐grade power components to be used in the high‐power motor drivers.
Hybrid sorrel: cultivation potential and use as a novel non‐food multipurpose crop
Authors: Ust'ak Sergej , Šinko Jan , Muňoz Jakub
Published: September 2020

Hybrid sorrel is a perennial crop whose benefits include good wintering, early ripening, and relatively high biomass and energy yields. The average yields are usually in the range from 4 to 10 t ha−1 dry matter (DM) per year. Based on a long‐term study, a significant fertilization effect on hybrid sorrel yield was found. The crop establishment in spring is preceded by plowing in autumn. Hybrid sorrel can be harvested in the year following the establishment. As a perennial crop, hybrid sorrel provides ecosystem services to a greater extent than first‐generation annual crops. They are, for example, habitat functioning, air regulation, biodiversity conservation, anti‐erosion effect, and groundwater protection. After cultivation, it can leave up to 60 t ha−1 of slightly mineralizable organic matter in the soil. Hybrid sorrel's drawbacks include low resistance against weeds and sensitivity to drought damage. According to the available data, this hybrid sorrel is one of the most promising energy crops in the temperate zone. It is suitable for both combustion and biogas production. In biogas production, sorrel produces a total methane yield of about 2500 to 3500 mN3 ha−1, and as a biofuel for combustion it shows a relatively high DM calorific value, of about 18 MJ kg−1. Alongside its use for energy and fodder purposes, it can be cultivated to produce medicines and unique building materials. It can also be used for the phytoremediation of contaminated soils. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Development and validation of an ultrasensitive LC–MS/MS method for the quantification of cetagliptin in human plasma and its application in a microdose clinical trial
Authors: Bai Haihong , Lu Jinmiao , Cheng Xiaoqiang , Liu Long , Zhang Wei , Wei Yali , Wang Yu , Liu Ju , Ding Juping , Yu Qiang , Zhang Yang , Chen Guiying , Fan Yeqin , Wang Xinghe
Published: September 2020

This study established and validated an LC–MS/MS method for the ultrasensitive determination of cetagliptin in human plasma. Sample pretreatment was achieved by liquid–liquid extraction with ethyl acetate, and chromatographic separation was performed on an XB‐C18 analytical column (50 × 2.1 mm, 5 μm) with gradient elution (0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. For mass spectrometric detection, multiple reaction monitoring was used, and the ion transitions monitored were m/z 421.2–86.0 for cetagliptin and m/z 424.2–88.0 for cetagliptin‐d3. Method validation was performed according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bioanalytical Method Validation Guidance, for which the calibration curve was linear in the range of 50.0–2000 pg/mL. All of the other results, such as selectivity, lower limit of quantitation, precision, accuracy, matrix effect, recovery, and stability, met the acceptance criteria. The validated method was successfully applied in a microdose clinical trial to systematically investigate the pharmacokinetic profile of cetagliptin in healthy subjects. Both rapid absorption and prolonged duration demonstrate the potential value of cetagliptin for diabetes treatment.
“Gut–brain axis”: Review of the role of the probiotics in anxiety and depressive disorders
Authors: Gambaro Eleonora , Gramaglia Carla , Baldon Giulia , Chirico Emilio , Martelli Maria , Renolfi Alessia , Zeppegno Patrizia
Published: September 2020

Background

Depressive disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide and together with anxiety contribute to a very high burden of disease. Therefore, improving their treatment is a significant medical research target: The role of probiotics is a topic of great interest for the current research in this field.

Objectives

To explore the current literature about the impact of probiotics on anxious and depressive symptoms.

Methods

Scoping review following the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

The selection process yielded 23 studies. Probiotics positively affected depressive symptomatology and anxiety symptoms according to 53.83% and 43.75% of the selected studies, respectively. Among the studies assessing inflammatory biomarkers, 58.31% found they were decreased after administration of probiotics.

Conclusion

The results emerging from the existing literature about probiotic supplementation for depression treatment are encouraging, but further research is needed considering the shortage of clinical trials on this topic and the heterogeneity of the samples analyzed.
Virus recovery by tangential flow filtration: A model to guide the design of a sample concentration process
Authors: Lasareishvili Besarion , Shi Hang , Wang Xunhao , Hillstead Kyle D. , Tediashvili Marina , Jaiani Ekaterine , Tarabara Volodymyr V.
Published: September 2020

A simple model is developed to describe the instantaneous (rv) and cumulative (Rv) recovery of viruses from water during sample concentration by tangential flow filtration in the regime of constant water recovery, r. A figure of merit, M = rvr, is proposed as an aggregate performance metric that captures both the efficiency of virus recovery and the speed of sample concentration. We derive an expression for virus concentration in the sample as a function of filtration time with the rate‐normalized virus loss, , as a parameter. A practically relevant case is considered when the rate of virus loss is proportional to the permeation‐driven mass flux of viruses to the membrane: . In this scenario, the instantaneous recovery is constant, the cumulative recovery is decreasing as a power function of time, , η mediates the trade‐off between r and rv, and M is maximized at . The proposed model can guide the design of the sample concentration process and serve as a framework for quantification and interlaboratory comparison of experimental data on virus recovery.
The role of the angle of the fibularis longus tendon in foot arch support
Authors: Sumal Anoop S. , Jarvis Gavin E. , Norrish Alan R. , Brassett Cecilia , Whitaker Robert H.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Understanding the contribution of the fibularis longus tendon to the support of the midfoot arches has potential therapeutic applications. This cadaveric study sought to quantify this support across both the transverse arch and medial longitudinal arch and to establish whether a correlation exists between this support and the angle at which the tendon enters the sole.

Materials and methods

Markers placed in 11 dissected cadaveric foot specimens defined the arch boundaries. Incremental weights up to 150 N were applied to the fibularis longus tendon to simulate progressive muscle contraction, and associated changes in the transverse and medial longitudinal arch boundaries were recorded.

Results

A force of 150 N reduced the transverse arch distance by 4.6 (1.7) mm (mean [SD]) and medial longitudinal arch distance by 6.8 (1.4) mm. The angle of the fibularis longus tendon on the sole correlated well with changes in the transverse arch distance (slope ± s.e. = 0.56 ± 0.13 mm/degree, Pearson r = .83, p = .002) but only weakly with the medial longitudinal arch (0.18 ± 0.18 mm/degree, r = .32, p = .33).

Conclusions

The results of this preliminary study raise the possibility that physical therapies targeting the fibularis longus tendon may be valuable in the management of midfoot arch collapse. The correlation observed with the transverse arch suggests the possibility that surgical modification of the angle of the fibularis longus tendon on the sole may benefit patients with transverse arch collapse.
Situational analysis mapping for transformative thinking, conceptualisation and dialogues in counselling practice
Authors: Mudry Tanya E. , Vegter Vanessa , Strong Tom
Published: September 2020

Many problems clients present to counsellors can be represented as situated concerns to be reflected upon and addressed collaboratively. We find situational analysis (SA) mapping procedures useful for joining clients in ‘zooming out and in’ to critically reflect upon the situated concerns clients present and for generating possible ways to address these concerns. We provide rationale and propose use of SA mapping procedures for critically reflective and transformative practice. Using an amalgamated case example, we show how SA maps can be used to assess clinical concerns pertaining to ‘addictive behaviours’ and invite new thinking and dialogue.
Left coronary artery calcification patterns after coronary bypass graft surgery: An in‐vivo optical coherence tomography study
Authors: Wolny Rafal , Mintz Gary S. , Matsumura Mitsuaki , Kim Song‐Yi , Ishida Masaru , Fujino Akiko , Lee Tetsumin , Shlofmitz Evan , Goldberg Alec , Liu Yangbo , Zhang Zixuan , Zhang Mingyou , Hu Xun , Jeremias Allen , Petrossian George , Shlofmitz Richard A. , Maehara Akiko
Published: September 2020

Objectives

We sought to evaluate the severity and patterns of calcifications in the left main coronary artery (LMCA) and proximal segments of left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and left circumflex artery (LCX) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with and without prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Background

CABG may accelerate upstream calcium development.

Methods

OCT images (n = 76) of the LMCA bifurcation from either the LAD or LCX in 76 patients with at least one patent left coronary graft, on average 7.0 ± 5.6 years post‐CABG, were compared with 148 OCT images in propensity‐score‐matched non‐CABG controls.

RESULTS

Minimum lumen areas in the LMCA, LAD, and LCX in post‐CABG patients were smaller than non‐CABG controls. Maximum calcium arc and thickness as well as calcium length were greater in the LMCA and LCX, but not in the LAD in post‐CABG patients versus non‐CABG controls. Calcium located at the carina of a bifurcation, calcified nodules (CN), thin intimal calcium, and lobulated calcium were more prevalent in post‐CABG patients. After adjusting for multiple covariates, prior CABG was an independent predictor of calcification at the carina of a bifurcation (odds ratio [OR] 5.77 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.5–21.6]), thin intimal calcium (4.7 [1.5–14.4]), and the presence of a CN (15.60 [3.2–76.2]).

Conclusions

Prior CABG is associated with greater amount of calcium in the LMCA and the proximal LCX, as well as higher prevalence of atypical calcium patterns, including CN, thin or lobulated calcium, and calcifications located at the carina of a bifurcation, compared with non‐CABG controls.
Efficacy of the novel inner PIERCE technique for severely calcified below‐the‐knee occlusions in a patient with chronic limb‐threatening ischemia
Authors: Nakama Tatsuya , Muraishi Makio , Obunai Kotaro , Watanabe Hiroyuki
Published: September 2020

A severely calcified lesion is the most challenging entity in endovascular therapy (EVT) for below‐the‐knee (BTK) arteries. In this report, we introduce a challenging plaque modification technique known as the inner PIERCE technique. A 65‐year‐old man on hemodialysis with multiple toe ulcerations underwent an EVT for his BTK artery diseases. During EVT, the guidewire passed through the severely calcified posterior tibial and plantar arteries; however, the other devices could not pass through the lesion. Therefore, a novel inner PIERCE technique was performed. After guidewire externalization, an 18G 20 cm needle was advanced from the retrograde approach site, following the guidewire, for percutaneous transhepatic cholangiodrainage (PTCD). The PTCD needle was advanced into the severely calcified plaque using a rotational motion. Finally, the needle could pass through the lesion. After the inner PIERCE technique, an angioplasty was performed with a 2.5 mm balloon. The final angiography showed sufficient blood flow. After the EVT, complete wound healing was achieved in 4 months. This challenging technique may be an additional option for EVT to treat severely calcified BTK arteries.
A case of vasculitis case with unusual renal pathological findings presenting with rapidly progressing renal failure
Authors: An Hyo Jung , Jang Ha Nee , Lee Tae Won , Yoon Changhyo , Park Dong Jun , Bae Eunjin
Published: September 2020

Plasma cell infiltration may be an early lesion during renal invasion by ANCA‐associated vasculitis (AAV), and AAV should be considered in the differential diagnosis with acute renal failure and systemic symptoms.
Double drainage of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection revealed after surgical repair of a supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection
Authors: Nagao Hiroyuki , Tominaga Kenta , Kamei Naoya , Tanaka Toshikatsu
Published: September 2020

Mixed type TAPVC with double drainage, where the second vertical vein enlarged rather than atrophied after surgery. If we did not recognize left‐to‐right shunting before surgery, it can be treated with catheterization as demonstrated by our case.
Gynecomastia and hypertension in a patient treated with posaconazole
Authors: Thompson George R. , Surampudi Prasanth N. , Odermatt Alex
Published: September 2020

Posaconazole therapy may lead to increased serum estradiol levels and development of gynecomastia. Early detection by endocrine hormone measurements may help preventing gynecomastia.
Development Trends on Nickel‐Based Electrocatalysts for Direct Hydrazine Fuel Cells
Authors: Khalafallah Diab , Zhi Mingjia , Hong Zhanglian
Published: September 2020

Low temperature hydrazine fuel cells have been advocated as potential energy carriers by virtue of their exceptional power densities and carbon free containing byproducts. However, the large‐scale application of these renewable energy systems has been extremely inhibited by the insufficient performance and high cost of the state‐of‐art platinum (Pt) catalysts. To pursue better activity, electrocatalysts must demonstrate low operating overpotentials and high tolerances to poisoning species, which are critical factors for increasing the energy conversion efficiency. Despite the tremendous progress of Pt‐based catalysts, controlling sluggish kinetics on microscopic surfaces is still a serious issue because the accumulation of reaction product slugs onto surface may impede the liquid fuel transport to catalytic sites, resulting in a low activity. Thus, the development of earth abundant electrocatalysts with an improved activity is unambiguously a principal requirement. In this review, recent trends in the rational design and synthesis of Ni‐based electrocatalysts with various compositions for hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR) are summarized. In particular, development of multicomponent compounds and employment of Ni‐based materials for HzOR are demonstrated to be effective approaches from tuning the electrochemical performance of Ni‐based catalyst materials. Moreover, some potential challenges and prospects are deliberated to further advance the improvement of Ni‐based materials for effective HzOR.
Modification of g‐C3N4 Photocatalyst with Flower‐like ReS2 for Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xing Chuanwang , Zhao Haitao , Yu Guiyang , Guo Luyan , Hu Yujia , Chen Ting , Jiang Lilin , Li Xiyou
Published: September 2020

Heterojunction strategy has proven to be an effective approach for overcoming the quick photoexcited charge carrier recombination of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) and facilitating its photocatalytic performances. Bearing the merits of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) in mind, in this work, a novel flower‐like ReS2 coupled with layered g‐C3N4 was constructed via a facile hydrothermal route. The hybrid ReS2/g‐C3N4 catalysts create excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution without any additional co‐catalyst. Under visible‐light irradiation, the optimized 3 wt % ReS2/g‐C3N4 heterojunction exhibited a hydrogen evolution rate 8 times that of pristine g‐C3N4, maintaining a stable heterojunction after multiple photocatalytic cycles. ReS2/g‐C3N4 integrates the merits of both the configuration of a heterojunction and the formation of spatially conductive network, which effectively accelerate the transfer of photoinduced carrier. This work not only presents a marked ReS2/g‐C3N4 heterojunction photocatalyst, but provides more possibility for expanding applications in electrocatalysis, photothermal catalysis and energy storage.
Mechanistic Insights for Dimethyl Sulfoxide Catalyzed Aromatic Chlorination Reactions
Authors: Qu Zheng‐Wang , Zhu Hui , Grimme Stefan
Published: September 2020

Recently, the dimethyl sulfoxide O=SMe2 catalyzed aromatic chlorination reaction using N‐chlorosuccinimides (NsCl) under mild conditions has proven useful for bioactive compounds potentially containing various functional groups such as amide and hydroxyl. A novel catalytic mechanism is revealed by extensive DFT calculations using the anisole PhOMe as electron‐rich model substrate. The Cl+ transfer from NsCl to O=SMe2 slowly reacts via the S‐chloro sulfoxonium O=SClMe2+ to the S‐chloro ylide O=SClMeCH2, followed by facile Cl+ transfer from NsCl to the ylide CH2 site to initialize efficient electrophilic Cl+ transfer to nucleophilic substrates. According to the new proposal, the polarizable S and electronegative O sites of O=SMe2 may act as efficient Cl+ and H+ shuttles, respectively, in catalytic aromatic chlorination. If O=SMe2 is present in high concentration, it can trap intermediate SMe2OH+ into a stable H+‐bound dimer (SMe2O)2H+ to inhibit efficient protic NsCl activation. These mechanistic insights may be generally useful for the rational design of novel dual functional halonium transfer catalysts.
Social Status and Decent Work: Test of a Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Kim Na‐Rae , Kim Haram J. , Lee Ki‐Hak
Published: September 2020

On the basis of the psychology of working theory (PWT; Duffy, Blustein, et al., 2016), we tested a moderated mediation model with subjective social status, work volition, proactive personality, and decent work as variables. Data were collected from 225 South Korean employees (115 women, 110 men). Results indicated that work volition mediated the relation between low subjective social status and decent work. In addition, proactive personality moderated the link between low subjective social status and work volition. Further analysis revealed that the indirect effect of social status on decent work via work volition was conditional upon proactive personality; that is, the indirect effect was weaker for individuals with a higher level of proactive personality. These results provide an application of the PWT‐based model in a South Korean context. Future research could include samples from marginalized populations and additional constructs (e.g., career adaptability, human need satisfaction) of PWT.
Shame and the Psychosocial Costs of Contemporary Work: Implications for Career Intervention
Authors: Cinamon Rachel Gali , Blustein David L.
Published: September 2020

This article explores the concept of shame and integrates it into career development and career counseling. The article begins with an overview of shame from a diverse conceptual framework, describing shame as a self‐conscious emotion that occurs in response to interactions or events that evoke embarrassment, humiliation, self‐doubt, and psychological distress. We discuss the prevalence of shame in work‐based interactions and contexts, which is referred to as work shame. Building on this integrative review of shame within the working context, we describe the counseling implications and provide a case study to illustrate the ways in which shame emerges in clients' lives and potential strategies to resist and transcend shame.
A Novel Anthraquinone‐Containing Poly(Triphenylamine) Derivative: Preparation and Electrochemical Performance as Cathode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Su Chang , Han Bing , Ma Jinpeng , Xu Lihuan
Published: September 2020

Organic and polymeric materials are excellent candidates for next generation advanced electrode materials. Therein, 2,6‐Bis(4‐(diphenylamino)phenyl)‐9,10‐anthracenedione (BDAPA) functional monomer was synthesized through Suzuki coupling reaction, and a novel anthraquinone‐containing poly(triphemylamine) polymer (PBDAPA) was then prepared by the simple oxidative polymerization. The obtained novel functional polymer presented a unique urchin‐like morphology with outgrowth of hollow tubular spiny, which possesses the improved specific surface area of ∼129.6 m2 g−1 and the small average mesopore diameter of 1.78 nm. As cathode material, the obtained PBDAPA compared to polytriphenylamine (PTPA), demonstrated two obvious discharge plateaus, corresponding to the double charge‐discharge characteristics from p‐type triphenylamine and n‐type anthraquinone segments in the polymer, respectively. Also, PBDAPA exhibited an improved specific capacity of 132.7 mAh g−1 and an enhanced rate capability with the discharge specific capacities of 140.6, 124.3, 107.5 and 97.1 mAh g−1 at the discharge rates of 20, 50, 100 and 200 mA g−1, respectively. The introduction of anthraquinone unit in polytriphenylamine as well as the resulted open pore morphology for PBDAPA was responsible to the improved electrochemical performances, which makes it a potential strategy for the design and preparation of high performance organic lithium‐ion batteries.
A Versatile In‐Situ Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectro‐electrochemical Approach for Electrocatalyst Research
Authors: Neukermans Sander , Samanipour Mohammad , Vincent Ching H. Y. , Hereijgers Jonas , Van Doorslaer Sabine , Hubin Annick , Breugelmans Tom
Published: September 2020

Empirical electrocatalyst research generally consists of the synthesis and experimental characterization of catalysts and the analysis of electrolysis products by conventional analytical techniques. In‐situ electron paramagnetic resonance spectro‐electrochemistry provides an evidence‐based in‐depth understanding of the formed intermediates and the reaction mechanism enabling the desired tuning of electrocatalysts. The use of this technique has been underexploited because of the opposite requirements they impose on the conventional setup. In this work, a versatile electrode with commercially available indium tin oxide on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was constructed for the first time which can fit inside commonly used flat cells. It allows reproducible electrodeposition of catalytic material combined with sensitive radical detection, owing to its large surface area and minimal disruption to the resonator's Q‐factor. Moreover, with a resistivity of 8–10 Ω sq−1, the surface potential of the thin semiconductor electrode within the resonator was well‐controlled, allowing targeted radical production.