bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catalytic Substrate‐Selective Silylation of Primary Alcohols via Remote Functional‐Group Discrimination
Authors: Hashimoto Hisashi , Ueda Yoshihiro , Takasu Kiyosei , Kawabata Takeo
Published: December 2021

Silylation of alcohols has generally been known to take place at the sterically most accessible less‐hindered hydroxy group. Herein, the catalyst‐controlled substrate‐selective silylation of primary alcohols, in which the selectivity was controlled independently of the innate reactivity of the hydroxy group, based on the steric environment, is reported. The chain‐length‐selective silylation of 1,n‐amino alcohol derivatives was achieved and 1,5‐amino alcohol derivatives showed outstandingly high reactivity in the presence of analogues with a shorter or longer chain length under catalyst‐controlled conditions. A highly substrate‐selective catalytic silylation of pentanol analogues was also developed, in which the remote functionality at C(5) from the reacting hydroxy groups was effectively discriminated on silylation.
Inter‐relationships between Oxygen Evolution and Iridium Dissolution Mechanisms
Authors: Lončar Anja , Escalera‐López Daniel , Cherevko Serhiy , Hodnik Nejc
Published: December 2021

The widespread utilization of proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers currently remains uncertain, as they rely on the use of highly scarce iridium as the only viable catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), which is known to present the major energy losses of the process. Understanding the mechanistic origin of the different activities and stabilities of Ir‐based catalysts is, therefore, crucial for a scale‐up of green hydrogen production. It is known that structure influences the dissolution, which is the main degradation mechanism and shares common intermediates with the OER. In this Minireview, the state‐of‐the‐art understanding of dissolution and its relationship with the structure of different iridium catalysts is gathered and correlated to different mechanisms of the OER. A perspective on future directions of investigation is also given.
High‐Capacity and Long‐Life Zinc Electrodeposition Enabled by a Self‐Healable and Desolvation Shield for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Du Haoran , Zhao Ruirui , Yang Ying , Liu Zhikang , Qie Long , Huang Yunhui
Published: December 2021

Artificial interfaces can alleviate the side reactions and the formation of the metallic (e.g., Li, Na, and Zn) dendrites. However, the traditional ones always breakdown during the repeated plating/stripping and fail to regulate the electrodeposition behaviors of the electrodes. Herein, a self‐healable ion regulator (SIR) is designed as a desolvation shield to protect the Zn electrodes and guide the Zn electrodeposition. Benefiting from the intermolecular hydrogen bonds, SIR shows a superb capability to in situ repair the plating/stripping‐induced cracks. Besides, the results of theoretical calculations and electrochemical characterizations show that the coating reduces water molecules in the solvated sheath of hydrated Zn2+and restrains the random Zn2+diffusion on the Zn surface. Even with a coating layer of only 360 nm, the SIR‐modified Zn electrode exhibits excellent long‐term stability for >3500 h at 2 mAh cm−2and >950 h at an ultrahigh areal capacity of 20 mAh cm−2.
Dearomative Cyclopropanation of Naphthols via Cyclopropene Ring‐Opening
Authors: Baker Rachel J. , Ching Justin , Hou Teh Ren , Franzoni Ivan , Lautens Mark
Published: December 2021

The dearomatization of 2‐naphthols represents a simple method for the construction of complex 3D structures from simple planar starting materials. We describe a cyclopropanation of 2‐naphthols that proceeds via cyclopropene ring‐opening using rhodium and acid catalysis under mild conditions. The vinyl cyclopropane molecules were formed with high chemoselectivity and scalability, which could be further functionalized at different sites. Both computational and experimental evidence were used to elucidate the reaction mechanism.
Mechanochemical Grignard Reactions with Gaseous CO2 and Sodium Methyl Carbonate**
Authors: Pfennig Victoria S. , Villella Romina C. , Nikodemus Julia , Bolm Carsten
Published: December 2021

A one‐pot, three‐step protocol for the preparation of Grignard reagents from organobromides in a ball mill and their subsequent reactions with gaseous carbon dioxide (CO2) or sodium methyl carbonate providing aryl and alkyl carboxylic acids in up to 82 % yield is reported. Noteworthy are the short reaction times and the significantly reduced solvent amounts [2.0 equiv. for liquid assisted grinding (LAG) conditions]. Unexpectedly, aryl bromides with methoxy substituents lead to symmetric ketones as major products.
Efficient Long‐Range Triplet Exciton Transport by Metal–Metal Interaction at Room Temperature
Authors: Wan Qingyun , Li Dian , Zou Jiading , Yan Tengfei , Zhu Ruidan , Xiao Ke , Yue Shuai , Cui Xiaodong , Weng Yuxiang , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: December 2021

Efficient and long‐range exciton transport is critical for photosynthesis and opto‐electronic devices, and for triplet‐harvesting materials, triplet exciton diffusion length (
) and coefficient (
) are key parameters in determining their performances. Herein, we observed that PtII and PdII organometallic nanowires exhibit long‐range anisotropic triplet exciton LD of 5–7 μm along the M−M direction using direct photoluminescence (PL) imaging technique by low‐power continuous wave (CW) laser excitation. At room temperature, via a combined triplet–triplet annihilation (TTA) analysis and spatial PL imaging, an efficient triplet exciton diffusion was observed for the PtII and PdII nanowires with extended close M−M contact, while is absent in nanowires without close M−M contact. Two‐dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES) and calculations revealed a significant contribution of the delocalized 1/3[dσ*(M−M)→π*] excited state during the exciton diffusion modulated by the M−M distance.
Transforming Electrocatalytic Biomass Upgrading and Hydrogen Production from Electricity Input to Electricity Output
Authors: Wang Tehua , Huang Zhifeng , Liu Tianyang , Tao Li , Tian Jing , Gu Kaizhi , Wei Xiaoxiao , Zhou Peng , Gan Lang , Du Shiqian , Zou Yuqin , Chen Ru , Li Yafei , Fu Xian‐Zhu , Wang Shuangyin
Published: December 2021

Integrating biomass upgrading and hydrogen production in an electrocatalytic system is attractive both environmentally and in terms of sustainability. Conventional electrolyser systems coupling anodic biosubstrate electrooxidation with hydrogen evolution reaction usually require electricity input. Herein, we describe the development of an electrocatalytic system for simultaneous biomass upgrading, hydrogen production, and electricity generation. In contrast to conventional furfural electrooxidation, the employed low‐potential furfural oxidation enabled the hydrogen atom of the aldehyde group to be released as gaseous hydrogen at the anode at a low potential of approximately 0 VRHE (vs. RHE). The integrated electrocatalytic system could generate electricity of about 2 kWh per cubic meter of hydrogen produced. This study may provide a transformative technology to convert electrocatalytic biomass upgrading and hydrogen production from a process requiring electricity input into a process to generate electricity.
DFT study on the mechanisms of α‐C cross coupling of π‐bonds catalyzed by iron complexes
Authors: Zheng Lin , Yan Zhengwei , Ren Qinghua
Published: December 2021

The mechanisms of α‐C cross coupling of π‐bonds catalyzed by iron complexes have been investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations with the B3LYP‐D3BJ in solvation model density (SMD) (dichloromethane). The results show that the overall catalytic cycle includes the deprotonation of α‐position of alkynes, electrophilic functionalization, protonation and BF3 departure, alkynes exchange, and catalyst regeneration. The deprotonation step of α‐position of alkynes is the rate‐determining step in the whole catalytic cycle where the energy barrier ΔGsol in dichloromethane solution is 11.6 kcal/mol. Our results also show that the product is in a racemic form, which keeps consistent with the experimental results.
Electrospinning of BCNNTs/PVA/PEDOT composite nanofibers films for research thermoelectric performance
Authors: Jiang Xiangqian , Ban Chuncheng , Li Ling , Hao Jiandong , Shi Ningqiang , Chen Weiping , Gao Peng
Published: December 2021

In recent years, the thermoelectric properties of one‐dimensional boron nitride nanomaterials have gradually attracted widespread attention of researchers in the world. In this paper, boron carbon nitrogen based composite nanofiber films were prepared by electrospinning. It is found that the diameter of nanofibers decreases in BCNNTs/PVA/PEDOT composite films when electrospinning voltage rises, while diameter increases as PVA and BCNNTs concentration increase of electrospinning precursor solution. Finally, thermoelectric power factor is investigated of the composite nanofiber films. It is verified that thermoelectric properties of the films closely related to electrospinning quality. However, fiber density of single‐layer BCNNTs/PVA/PEDOT nanofiber film is too low, folding increase the density and thickness of multilayer BCNNTs/PVA/PEDOT nanocomposite fiber films, and the thermoelectric characteristics are significantly improved. The Seebeck coefficient can reach 3.62 mV/K and the power factor is 29.09 nW/mK2.
Study on improving the quality of high content recycled PE foamed board by enhancing screw elongational effect in mixing process
Authors: Pan Yiren , Liu Yanchang , Wang Zhilin , Ma Chong
Published: December 2021

This paper focused on improving the content of recycled PE in the foaming board and the compatibility of recycled PE with other materials and fillers, reducing the unmelted recycled PE particles in the recycled PE foaming board, and enhancing the foaming density and quality of the recycled PE foamed board. In this paper, the elongational mechanism was applied to the design of the screw mixing section, and a new type of elongational screw was designed to improve the mixing effect of PE and LDPE and fillers by strengthening the elongational effect of the screw. Through simulation analysis and experimental comparison, it was found that the mixing capacity of the strong elongational mixing section was 1.3 times higher than that of the ordinary mixing section. The mixing quality of pre‐foaming compound and the foam quality and density of foamed board were studied by macroscopic and microscopic showed that the unmelted particles and filler aggregates in the extruded preform prepared by the new elongational screw were significantly reduced, while the foaming density and extrusion production capacity were significantly increased, especially the formula of pure recycled PE foamed board. It could be seen that increasing the elongational effect played a crucial role in improving the melting of the blends in the extruder, the crushing and refinement of the filler aggregate, and improving the fluidity of the blend foaming materials in the molding foaming machine to avoid the lack of materials in the cavity.
Anticancer activity of novel 3‐(furan‐2‐yl)pyrazolyl and 3‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)pyrazolyl hybrid chalcones: Synthesis and in vitro studies
Authors: Helmy Mirna T. , Sroor Farid M. , Mahrous Karima F. , Mahmoud Khaled , Hassaneen Hamdi M. , Saleh Fatma M. , Abdelhamid Ismail A. , Mohamed Teleb Mohamed A.
Published: December 2021

Twelve novel chalcone derivatives were prepared using the Claisen–Schmidt condensation reaction. The reaction of 4‐acetyl‐5‐furan/thiophene‐pyrazole derivatives 5 with the corresponding aldehydes 6 afforded the targeted chalcone derivatives 7a–l in good yields. The newly synthesized chalcones were fully characterized by spectrometric and elemental analyses. The in vitro anticancer activities of the novel compounds 7a–l were evaluated against four human cancer cell lines: HepG2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), MCF7 (human Caucasian breast adenocarcinoma), A549 (lung carcinoma), and BJ1 (normal skin fibroblasts). Compound 7g emerged as the most promising compound, with IC50 = 27.7 µg/ml against A549 cells compared to the reference drug doxorubicin (IC50 = 28.3 µg/ml), and IC50 = 26.6 µg/ml against HepG2 cells compared to the reference drug doxorubicin (IC50 = 21.6 µg/ml). The gene expression and DNA damage values and the DNA fragmentation percentages for compound 7g were determined on the lung and liver cell lines. The expression levels of the AMY2A and FOXG1 genes increased significantly (p < 0.01) in the negative samples of lung cancer cells compared with treated cells. Also, the expression values of the PKM and PSPH genes improved significantly (p < 0.01) in the negative samples compared with treated samples of liver cancer cells. The DNA damage values increased significantly (p < 0.01) in treated lung cell line samples (7g) and the positive control. The results showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in DNA damage values in the negative samples of liver cancer cells compared to those treated with 7g. However, the DNA fragmentation values increased significantly (p < 0.01) in the treated lung and liver cell line samples compared with the negative control.
Hot Jupiters accreting onto their parent stars: Effects on the stellar activity
Authors: Colombo Salvatore , Pillitteri Ignazio , Orlando Salvatore , Micela Giuseppina
Published: December 2021

Hot Jupiters (HJs) are massive gaseous planets orbiting close to their host stars. Due to their physical characteristics and proximity to the central star, HJs are the natural laboratories to study the process of stellar‐planet interaction (SPI). Phenomena related to SPI may include the inflation and evaporation of planetary atmospheres, the formation of cometary tails and bow shocks and magnetospheric interaction between the magnetic field of the planet and that of the star. Several works suggest that some systems show enhanced stellar activity in phase with the planetary rotation period. In this work, we use a 3D magneto‐hydrodynamic model that describes a system composed by a star and a HJ and that includes the corresponding planetary and stellar winds. The aim is to investigate whether the material evaporating from the planet interacts with the stellar extended corona, and generates observable features. Our simulation shows that, in some conditions, the planetary wind expands and propagates mainly along the planetary orbit. Moreover, part of the planetary wind collides with the stellar wind and a fraction of the planet's outflow is funneled by the stellar magnetic field and hits the stellar surface. In both events, the material is heated up to temperatures of a few MK by a shock. These phenomena could manifest in the form of enhanced stellar activity at some orbital phases of the planet.
Concurrent validity of Open‐Ended Functional Assessment Interviews with functional analysis
Authors: Gossou Komlantse M. , Lanovaz Marc J. , Giannakakos‐Ferman Antonia R.
Published: December 2021

Open‐Ended Functional Assessment Interviews have limited empirical support for their concurrent validity with functional analysis. To address this issue, we conducted a study wherein 176 independent behavior analysts relied on data collected using Open‐Ended Functional Assessment Interviews to identify the function of challenging behavior in four children with autism. Then, we compared the results of their analyses with those of a traditional functional analysis. Our results showed that the conclusions drawn by behavior analysts using the Open‐Ended Functional Assessment Interviews corresponded with the outcomes of functional analyses in 74% of cases. These findings suggest that the Open‐Ended Functional Assessment Interview may inform functional analyses to develop initial hypotheses.
Anlotinib for patients with small cell lung cancer and baseline liver metastases: A post hoc analysis of the ALTER 1202 trial
Authors: Cheng Ying , Wang Qiming , Li Kai , Shi Jianhua , Wu Lin , Han Baohui , Chen Gongyan , He Jianxing , Wang Jie , Qin Haifeng , Li Xiaoling
Published: December 2021

Liver metastasis is common in advanced small cell lung cancer (SCLC). There is no evidence‐proven treatment beyond the second line in patients with SCLC and liver metastasis. This study aimed to investigate survival in patients with SCLC and liver metastasis treated with anlotinib compared with placebo. This study was a post hoc analysis of the phase II ALTER 1202 trial, including patients who had liver metastasis at baseline. The participants were randomized 2:1 to receive either 12 mg/day anlotinib (anlotinib group) or placebo (placebo group). Tumor response, progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared. In the original trial, there were 39 participants with liver metastasis at baseline, including 27 and 12 in the anlotinib and placebo groups, respectively. The objective response rate was 3.7% and 0% in the anlotinib and placebo groups, respectively (p = 0.9999). An elevated disease control rate was found in the anlotinib group (44.4%) compared with the placebo group (8.3%, p = 0.0173). The median PFS was 1.51 vs. 0.71 months in favor of anlotinib (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.365, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17–0.78; p = 0.0064), with no marked difference in median OS (3.29 vs. 1.91 months; HR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.22–1.16; p = 0.0996). The most common AEs in the anlotinib group were hypertension (40.7%), fatigue (29.6%), loss of appetite (22.2%), and weight loss (22.2%). There were no grade 5 AE. In conclusion, anlotinib increased PFS compared with placebo in patients with SCLC and liver metastasis.
Use of non‐directive therapy for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review
Authors: Casper Rachel , Shloim Netalie , Hebron Judith
Published: December 2021

In this review, we systematically explored research on the use of non‐directive therapies with adolescents (aged 11–18 years) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). N = 12 studies were eligible for inclusion. The findings suggested four therapeutic components which were consistently present across all non‐directive interventions and held similarities with play therapy principles: (a) collaboration between adolescent and therapist; (b) adolescent‐led discussions; (c) reflection and reframing; and (d) encouragement and acceptance of the adolescent as they were. Therapeutic outcomes improved when the therapists had an understanding of ASD in order to tailor the intervention to the individual. Future primary research investigating the applicability of play therapy principles and limitations is discussed.
Light‐Sensitive Phenacyl Crosslinked Dextran Hydrogels for Controlled Delivery**
Authors: Brevé Tobias G. , Filius Mike , Weerdenburg Sven , van der Griend Stefan J. , Groeneveld Tim P. , Denkova Antonia G. , Eelkema Rienk
Published: December 2021

Stimuli‐responsive soft materials enable controlled release of loaded drug molecules and biomolecules. Controlled release of potent chemotherapeutic or immunotherapeutic agents is crucial to reduce unwanted side effects. In an effort to develop controlled release strategies that can be triggered by using Cerenkov luminescence, we have developed polymer hydrogels that can release bovine serum albumin and immunoglobulin G by using light (254 nm–375 nm) as a trigger. We describe the synthesis and photochemical characterization of two light sensitive phenacyl bis‐azide crosslinkers that are used to prepare transparent self‐supporting hydrogel patches. One crosslinker was designed to optimize the overlap with the Cerenkov luminescence emission window, bearing an π‐extended phenacyl core, resulting in a high quantum yield (14 %) of photocleavage when irradiated with 375 nm light. We used the extended phenacyl crosslinker for the preparation of protein‐loaded dextran hydrogel patches, which showed efficient and selective dosed release of bovine serum albumin or immunoglobulin G after irradiation with 375 nm light. Cerenkov‐triggered release is as yet inconclusive due to unexpected side‐reactivity. Based on the high quantum yield, efficient release and large overlap with the Cerenkov window, we envision application of these photosensitive soft materials in radiation targeted drug release.
Assessing Alkali‐Metal Effects in the Structures and Reactivity of Mixed‐Ligand Alkyl/Alkoxide Alkali‐Metal Magnesiates
Authors: Judge Neil R. , Bole Leonie J. , Hevia Eva
Published: December 2021

Advancing the understanding of using alkali‐metal alkoxides as additives to organomagnesium reagents in Mg−Br exchange reactions, a homologous series of mixed‐ligand alkyl/alkoxide alkali‐metal magnesiates [MMg(CH2SiMe3)2(dmem)]2 [dmem=2‐{[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl]methylamino} ethoxide; M=Li, 1; Na, 2; (THF)K, 3] has been prepared. Structural and spectroscopic studies have established the constitutions of these heteroleptic/heterometallic species, which are retained in arene solution. Evaluation of their reactivity towards 2‐bromoanisole has uncovered a marked alkali‐metal effect with potassium magnesiate 3 being the most efficient of the three ate reagents. Studies probing the constitution of the exchange product from this reaction suggest that the putative [KMgAr2(dmem)]2 (Ar=o‐OMe−C6H4) intermediate undergoes redistribution into its single metal components [KAr]n and [MgAr(dmem)]2 (5). This process can be circumvented by using a different potassium alkoxide containing an aliphatic chain such as KOR’ (R’=2‐ethylhexyl) which undergoes co‐complexation with Mg(CH2SiMe3) to give [KMg(CH2SiMe3)2(OR’)]2 (7). This ate, in turn, reacts quantitatively with 2‐bromoanisole furnishing [KMgAr2(OR’)]2 (9) which is stable in solution as a bimetallic compound. Collectively this work highlights the complexity of these alkali‐metal mediated Mg−Br exchange reactions, where each reaction component can have a profound effect not only on the success of the reaction; but also the stability of the final metalated intermediates prior to their electrophilic interception.
Experiment and Theory Clarify: Sc+ Receives One Oxygen Atom from SO2 to Form ScO+, which Proves to be a Catalyst for the Hidden Oxygen‐Exchange with SO2
Authors: Mercero Jose M. , Rezabal Elixabete , Ugalde Jesus M. , Weiske Thomas , Li Jilai
Published: December 2021

Using Fourier‐transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry, it was experimentally determined that Sc+ in the highly diluted gas phase reacts with SO2 to form ScO+ and SO. By 18O labeling, ScO+ was shown to play the role of a catalyst when further reacting with SO2 in a Mars‐van Krevelen‐like (MvK) oxygen exchange process, where a solid catalyst actively reacts with the substrate but emerges apparently unchanged at the end of the cycle. High‐level quantum chemical calculations confirmed that the multi‐step process to form ScO+ and SO is exoergic and that all intermediates and transition states in between are located energetically below the entrance level. The reaction starts from the triplet surface; although three spin‐crossing points with minimal energy have been identified by computational means, there is no evidence that a two‐state scenario is involved in the course of the reaction, by which the reactants could switch from the triplet to the singlet surface and back. Pivotal to the oxygen exchange reaction of ScO+ with SO2 is the occurrence of a highly symmetric four‐membered cyclic intermediate by which two oxygen atoms become equivalent.
Polysulfide Speciation and Migration in Catholyte Lithium−Sulfur Cells
Authors: Sadd Matthew , Agostini Marco , Xiong Shizhao , Matic Aleksandar
Published: December 2021

Semi‐liquid catholyte Lithium−Sulfur (Li−S) cells have shown to be a promising path to realize high energy density energy storage devices. In general, Li−S cells rely on the conversion of elemental sulfur to soluble polysulfide species. In the case of catholyte cells, the active material is added through polysulfide species dissolved in the electrolyte. Herein, we use operando Raman spectroscopy to track the speciation and migration of polysulfides in the catholyte to shed light on the processes taking place. Combined with ex‐situ surface and electrochemical analysis we show that the migration of polysulfides is central in order to maximize the performance in terms of capacity (active material utilization) as well as interphase stability on the Li‐metal anode during cycling. More specifically we show that using a catholyte where the polysulfides have the dual roles of active material and conducting species, e. g. no traditional Li‐salt (such as LiTFSI) is present, results in a higher mobility and faster migration of polysulfides. We also reveal how the formation of long chain polysulfides in the catholyte is delayed during charge as a result of rapid formation and migration of shorter chain species, beneficial for reaching higher capacities. However, the depletion of ionic species during the last stage of charge, due to the conversion to and precipitation of elemental sulfur on the cathode support, results in polarization of the cell before full conversion can be achieved.
Time‐multiplexed hysteretic control for single‐inductor dual‐input single‐output DC‐DC power converter
Authors: Alam Muhammad , Lu Dylan D.‐C. , Siwakoti Yam P.
Published: December 2021

Single‐inductor multi‐input single‐output (SI‐MISO) switching DC‐DC power converter architecture is a cost effective solution to applications where multiple input sources are required to be managed with a limited space and cost. This paper presents a new time‐multiplexed hysteretic control (TMHC) scheme for SI‐DISO topology to decouple the power sharing among two input sources. Unlike previously reported solutions with discontinuous conduction or pseudo‐continuous conduction operation of the inductor, this paper focuses on how to keep the inductor current in a continuous conduction mode (CCM) and proposed a control scheme with considerably lower ripple current with fast transition time upon switching and higher efficiency. The mathematical proof using the expressions of inductor ripple current, comparison between efficiency and transition time from one level to other, is derived. Additionally, a low‐cost analog circuitry has been implemented to incorporate the proposed control scheme. Experimental results from the hardware prototype are given to verify the proposed control scheme.
(C7H11N2)2MBr4 (M=Cu, Zn): X‐Ray Sensitive 0D Hybrid Metal Halides with Tunable Broadband Emission
Authors: McWhorter Timothy M. , Zhang Zheng , Creason Tielyr D. , Thomas Leonard , Du Mao‐Hua , Saparov Bayram
Published: December 2021

Herein, a new family of hybrid metal halides, (DMAP)2MBr4 (M = Cu, Zn), featuring zero‐dimensional (0D), pseudo‐layered crystal structures containing isolated molecular 4‐dimethylaminopyridinium (DMAP, C7H11N2+) cations and MBr42− tetrahedral anions are reported. (DMAP)2MBr4 show remarkable long‐term stability, with no signs of degradation after one year of ambient air exposure. The reported solution synthesis affords large crystals measuring up to 1 cm, which showed significant response to soft 8 keV X‐ray photons when implemented into X‐ray detectors. Furthermore, (DMAP)2ZnBr4 demonstrates tunable color light emission properties, which is attributed to the organic molecular units based on our combined experimental and computational results. The measured photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) for (DMAP)2ZnBr4 is 7.35 %, a remarkable enhancement of emission efficiency as compared to a weak emission from the organic precursor. The inexpensive and earth‐abundant chemical compositions and ease of preparation of the new hybrid metal halides make them promising candidates for optical and electronic applications.
How do people with dementia make sense of their medications? An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis study
Authors: Lim Rosemary H. M. , Sharmeen Taniya , Donyai Parastou
Published: December 2021

Background

Managing medication is complex and multifaceted for people with dementia and their family carers. Despite efforts to support medication management, medication errors and medication‐related hospital admissions still occur. This study investigated how people with dementia viewed and talked about their different medications and their medication taking.

Methods

An interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) qualitative research design combining photo elicitation and in‐depth interviews was used. People with a diagnosis of mild or moderate dementia took photographs of anything they viewed to be related to medication, with or without the help of family carers, over any two‐day period. The photographs were then used as cues for subsequent in‐depth interviews, which were analysed using IPA.

Results

Twelve people with dementia were interviewed. Four themes encapsulated the experiences: (1) Medication as a lifeline, (2) Managing medications dominates daily lives and plans, (3) Struggling with uncertainty about the effectiveness of dementia medication and (4) Sense of ‘being’ and being in control. People with dementia viewed medication as a lifeline, especially donepezil, giving it preference over other daily medication they were using. Managing medications dominated the daily lives and plans of people with dementia and changed the way they viewed themselves and their life. People with dementia continually struggled with the imperceptible benefits of donepezil on their dementia, but despite such uncertainties, continued to take donepezil.

Conclusions

This study provided unique insights into how people with dementia made sense of their medication. Healthcare professionals can use these insights to shape their practice around medication prescribing and advice in dementia. The findings are also useful to researchers looking to develop interventions to support medication management within the home setting.
Migration of adult male children and associated depression among community‐dwelling older parents: A cross‐sectional gender analysis from Longitudinal Ageing Study in India, 2017–2018
Authors: Muhammad Thalil , Sulaiman Madathil K. , Srivastava Shobhit
Published: December 2021

Objectives

This study empirically examines the association of migration of an adult male child (ren) on the mental health of the older parents left behind. It also examines the interaction effects of sex of older parents and male child migration on major depression to explore whether there is a gender differential in the possible association.

Methods

The data for this study were obtained from the first wave of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI, 2017–2018). The total sample size for the present study was 27,248 older adults aged 60 years and above (male‐12,624; female‐14,624). Descriptive statistics along with cross‐tabulation were presented. Proportion test was used to evaluate the significance level of differences in depression by sex. Additionally, binary logistic regression analysis was used to find out the associations. Major depression with symptoms of dysphoria, was calculated using the Short‐Form Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI‐SF).

Results

About 10.5% and 9.0% of older males and females had migrant sons. It was found that there was significant gender differential in depression in older age (male: 7.5% and female: 9.7%; p < 0.001). It was further found that the prevalence of depression was found among older men (9.3% vs. 7.3%) and women (12.5% vs. 9.4%) with migrant son. Older adults with migrant son had 26% significantly higher likelihood to be depressed in reference to older adults with non‐migrant son (AOR: 1.26; CI: 1.02–1.56). Further, older women with a migrant son had 76% significantly higher likelihood to be depressed in reference to older men with migrant son (AOR: 1.76; CI: 1.32–2.39).

Conclusions

This study invites policymakers' attention towards migration of adult children and its potential effects on mental health of left‐behind older parents in community‐settings and in women in particular. Policies should focus on spreading awareness to migrant children of older adults on maintaining frequent contacts and visits to their ageing parents.
Radiofrequency ablation and related ultrasound‐guided ablation technologies for treatment of benign and malignant thyroid disease: An international multidisciplinary consensus statement of the American Head and Neck Society Endocrine Surgery Section with the Asia Pacific Society of Thyroid Surgery, Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, British Association of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgeons, European Thyroid Association, Italian Society of Endocrine Surgery Units, Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology, Latin American Thyroid Society, and Thyroid Nodules Therapies Association
Authors: Orloff Lisa A. , Noel Julia E. , Stack Brendan C. , Russell Marika D. , Angelos Peter , Baek Jung Hwan , Brumund Kevin T. , Chiang Feng‐Yu , Cunnane Mary Beth , Davies Louise , Frasoldati Andrea , Feng Anne Y. , Hegedüs Laszlo , Iwata Ayaka J. , Kandil Emad , Kuo Jennifer , Lombardi Celestino , Lupo Mark , Maia Ana Luiza , McIver Bryan , Na Dong Gyu , Novizio Roberto , Papini Enrico , Patel Kepal N. , Rangel Leonardo , Russell Jonathon O. , Shin Jennifer , Shindo Maisie , Shonka David C. , Karcioglu Amanda S. , Sinclair Catherine , Singer Michael , Spiezia Stefano , Steck Jose Higino , Steward David , Tae Kyung , Tolley Neil , Valcavi Roberto , Tufano Ralph P. , Tuttle R. Michael , Volpi Erivelto , Wu Che Wei , Abdelhamid Ahmed Amr H. , Randolph Gregory W.
Published: December 2021

Background

The use of ultrasound‐guided ablation procedures to treat both benign and malignant thyroid conditions is gaining increasing interest. This document has been developed as an international interdisciplinary evidence‐based statement with a primary focus on radiofrequency ablation and is intended to serve as a manual for best practice application of ablation technologies.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to guide statement development and generation of best practice recommendations. Modified Delphi method was applied to assess whether statements met consensus among the entire author panel.

Results

A review of the current state of ultrasound‐guided ablation procedures for the treatment of benign and malignant thyroid conditions is presented. Eighteen best practice recommendations in topic areas of preprocedural evaluation, technique, postprocedural management, efficacy, potential complications, and implementation are provided.

Conclusions

As ultrasound‐guided ablation procedures are increasingly utilized in benign and malignant thyroid disease, evidence‐based and thoughtful application of best practices is warranted.
Autophagy promotes hepatic cystogenesis in polycystic liver disease by depletion of cholangiocyte ciliogenic proteins
Authors: Masyuk Anatoliy I. , Masyuk Tatyana V. , Trussoni Christy E. , Pirius Nicholas E. , LaRusso Nicholas F.
Published: December 2021

Backgrounds and Aims

Polycystic liver disease (PLD) is characterized by defective cholangiocyte cilia that regulate progressive growth of hepatic cysts. Because formation of primary cilia is influenced by autophagy through degradation of proteins involved in ciliogenesis, we hypothesized that ciliary defects in PLD cholangiocytes (PLDCs) originate from autophagy‐mediated depletion of ciliogenic proteins ADP‐ribosylation factor‐like protein 3 (ARL3) and ADP‐ribosylation factor‐like protein 13B (ARL13B) and ARL‐dependent mislocation of a ciliary‐localized bile acid receptor, Takeda G‐protein‐coupled receptor 5 (TGR5), the activation of which enhances hepatic cystogenesis (HCG). The aims here were to determine whether: (1) ciliogenesis is impaired in PLDC, is associated with increased autophagy, and involves autophagy‐mediated depletion of ARL3 and ARL13B; (2) depletion of ARL3 and ARL13B in PLDC cilia impacts ciliary localization of TGR5; and (3) pharmacological inhibition of autophagy re‐establishes cholangiocyte cilia and ciliary localization of ARL3, ARL3B, and TGR5 and reduces HCG.

Approach and Results

By using liver tissue from healthy persons and patients with PLD, in vitro and in vivo models of PLD, and in vitro models of ciliogenesis, we demonstrated that, in PLDCs: ciliogenesis is impaired; autophagy is enhanced; ARL3 and ARL13B are ubiquitinated by HDAC6, depleted in cilia, and present in autophagosomes; depletion of ARL3 and ARL13B impacts ciliary localization of TGR5; and pharmacological inhibition of autophagy with mefloquine and verteporfin re‐establishes cholangiocyte cilia and ciliary localization of ARL3, ARL13B, and TGR5 and reduces HCG.

Conclusions

The intersection between autophagy, defective cholangiocyte cilia, and enhanced HCG contributes to PLD progression and can be considered a target for therapeutic interventions.
A strategy of vascular‐targeted therapy for liver fibrosis
Authors: Lin Yuan , Dong Meng‐Qi , Liu Zhi‐Min , Xu Meng , Huang Zhi‐Hao , Liu Hong‐Juan , Gao Yi , Zhou Wei‐Jie
Published: December 2021

Background and Aims

No effective treatments are available for liver fibrosis. Angiogenesis is deeply involved in liver fibrogenesis. However, current controversial results suggest it is difficult to treat liver fibrosis through vascular targeting. There are three different microvessels in liver: portal vessels, liver sinusoids, and central vessels. The changes and roles for each of the three different vessels during liver fibrogenesis are unclear. We propose that they play different roles during liver fibrogenesis, and a single vascular endothelial cell (EC) regulator is not enough to fully regulate these three vessels to treat liver fibrosis. Therefore, a combined regulation of multiple different EC regulatory signaling pathway may provide new strategies for the liver fibrosis therapy. Herein, we present a proof‐of‐concept strategy by combining the regulation of leukocyte cell‐derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2)/tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin‐like and epidermal growth factor–like domains 1 signaling with that of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/recombinant VEGF (rVEGF) signaling.

Approach and Results

The CCl4‐induced mouse liver fibrosis model and NASH model were both used. During fibrogenesis, vascular changes occurred at very early stage, and different liver vessels showed different changes and played different roles: decreased portal vessels, increased sinusoid capillarization and the increased central vessels the increase of portal vessels alleviates liver fibrosis, the increase of central vessels aggravates liver fibrosis, and the increase of sinusoid capillarization aggravates liver fibrosis. The combinational treatment of adeno‐associated viral vector serotype 9 (AAV9)–LECT2–short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and rVEGF showed improved therapeutic effects, but it led to serious side effects. The combination of AAV9‐LECT2‐shRNA and bevacizumab showed both improved therapeutic effects and decreased side effects.

Conclusions

Liver vascular changes occurred at very early stage of fibrogenesis. Different vessels play different roles in liver fibrosis. The combinational treatment of AAV9‐LECT2‐shRNA and bevacizumab could significantly improve the therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis.
Cardiotoxicity as an adverse effect of immunomodulatory drugs and proteasome inhibitors in multiple myeloma: A network meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Das Avash , Dasgupta Subhajit , Gong Yan , Shah Urvi A. , Fradley Michael G. , Cheng Richard K. , Roy Bhaskar , Guha Avirup
Published: December 2021

We aim to determine the cumulative and comparative risk of cardiovascular events associated with different Immunomodulatory Drugs (iMiDs) and Proteasome Inhibitor (PIs) in Multiple Myeloma (MM) patients through pairwise and network meta‐analysis. Electronic searches were conducted using Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Clinical Trial Registry (Clinical Trials.gov) up to May 2021. Phase 3 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) reporting cardiotoxicity in MM patients (newly diagnoses and/or relapsed) treated with iMiD and/or PI. Studies, where iMiD or PI was used alongside the chemotherapy versus placebo or no additional drugs (control) in the other arm were included. The primary outcome was the presence of cardiotoxicity after follow‐up. Pairwise meta‐analysis and network meta‐analysis were performed using the frequentist's approach to estimate the odds ratio (OR). Twenty RCTs with 10,373 MM patients were included in this analysis. Eleven studies compared iMiDs with control, seven studies compared PIs with control, and two studies compared bortezomib against carfilzomib. CTACE high‐grade (≥grade 3) cardiotoxic events were increased with iMiDs compared to their control counterpart (OR 2.05; 95% CI 1.30–3.26). Similar high‐grade cardiotoxicity was also noted more frequently with PI use when compared to the control group (OR 1.67; 95% CI 1.17–2.40). Among the PIs, carfilzomib was associated with a maximum risk of cardiotoxicity (OR 2.68; 95% CI 1.63–4.40). There was no evidence of publication bias among studies. iMiDs and PIs, particularly carfilzomib, appear to be associated with increased risk of high‐grade cardiovascular events in MM patients.
Unveiling the actual cost of Schizophrenia: An Activity‐Based Costing (ABC) approach
Authors: Latorre Valeria , Messeni Petruzzelli Antonio , Uva Antonio Emmanuele , Ranaudo Carlo , Semisa Domenico
Published: December 2021

Background

Despite its relatively low lifetime prevalence, the health, social, and economic burden of Schizophrenia is very significant. In the last 10 years, several studies have analysed the economic burden of Schizophrenia, even if there is a lack of research that has considered the actual cost for the community as the result of each event in the patient's history.

Objective

The present study aims to cover this gap by proposing a novel model to evaluate better the cost of Schizophrenia with real data from medical records.

Methods

We applied (i) a ‘real life’ analysis of medical database to capture each event of the clinical history and healthcare that could have an economic impact; and (ii) a novel Activity‐Based Costing model to quantify the overall annual economic burden of a patient with Schizophrenia treated by public mental health services. We carried out the study with 523 patients with a diagnosis of Schizophrenia in the Department of Mental Health of Bari, in the South of Italy.

Results

Our results reveal an overall cost of €41.290 per patient with Schizophrenia per year. Almost half of the cost is due to rehabilitation. The second most important factor is instead related to disability and loss of productivity.

Conclusions

We believe that the present approach represents the most effective method to properly estimate actual costs when real‐life data are available compared with other studies mainly based on prevalence‐based approaches.
Capsaicin inhibits cell proliferation by enhancing oxidative stress and apoptosis through SIRT1/NOX4 signaling pathways in HepG2 and HL‐7702 cells
Authors: Hacioglu Ceyhan
Published: December 2021

Capsaicin could suppress the proliferation of cancer cells and inhibit many biochemical pathways associated with tumorigenesis and metastasis. This study investigates the effects of capsaicin in both hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and normal hepatocytes (HL‐7702) via the SIRT1/NOX4 signaling pathway. After determination of cytotoxic concentrations of capsaicin on HL‐7702 and HepG2 cells, we measured total oxidant status (TOS), reduced glutathione (GSH), 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), cytochrome c (CYC), caspase3 (CASP3), Bcl‐2, Bax, sirtuin1 (SIRT1), and NADPH oxidases4 (NOX4) levels. Besides this, we analyzed the messenger RNA and protein levels of SIRT1 and NOX4. We found that capsaicin increased TOS, 8‐OHdG, CASP3, CYC, Bax, and NOX4 levels, and decreased Bcl‐2, GSH, and SIRT1 in a concentration‐dependent manner in HepG2 cells. However, especially low capsaicin concentration (128.75 µM) enhanced GSH and SIRT levels and reduced TOS, CASP3, CYC, 8‐OHdG, and NOX4 levels in HL‐7702 cells (p < 0.05). Interestingly, 128.75 and 172.8 µM capsaicin treatment increased SIRT1 expression levels in HL‐7702 cells, resulting in an increase in GSH levels and a decrease in TOS, CYC, CAPS3, and 8‐OHdG levels through NOX4 inhibition. Furthermore, we demonstrated a significant decrease in SIRT1 protein levels and an increase in NOX4 protein levels and caspase‐3/‐7 activities in both HL‐7702 and HepG2 cells treated with 261.5 µM capsaicin. Additionally, morphological changes in HL‐7702 and HepG2 cells treated with capsaicin correlated with the enhancement in oxidative burden, DNA damage, and apoptosis. Our results show that capsaicin effectively might cause higher oxidative, apoptotic, and DNA damage in HepG2 cells than in HL‐7702 cells through the SIRT1/NOX4 signaling pathway.
Plateaued functions on finite abelian groups and partial geometric difference sets
Authors: Xu Bangteng
Published: December 2021

As a generalization of plateaued functions on finite fields and bent functions (perfect nonlinear functions) on finite abelian groups, plateaued functions on finite abelian groups were introduced in [B. Xu, Plateaued functions, partial geometric difference sets, and partial geometric designs, J. Combin. Des. 27 (2019), 756–783]. In this paper, we continue the research in the paper mentioned above. We will obtain various characterizations of plateaued functions; these characterizations establish close connections between plateaued functions and some combinatorial objects: partial geometric difference sets and related partial geometric difference families. Then we introduce the complementary matrix and Cayley matrix for a subset of a finite group and use them to characterize partial geometric difference sets. As applications, we will show how to construct directed strongly regular graphs from partial geometric difference sets and establish a natural relation between partial geometric difference sets and partial geometric designs. The tensor product of a group algebra and a cyclotomic field is an important tool for our discussions.