bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasensitive Vibrational Imaging of Retinoids by Visible Preresonance Stimulated Raman Scattering Microscopy
Authors: Zhuge Minghua , Huang Kai‐Chih , Lee Hyeon Jeong , Jiang Ying , Tan Yuying , Lin Haonan , Dong Pu‐Ting , Zhao Guangyuan , Matei Daniela , Yang Qing , Cheng Ji‐Xin
Published: February 2021

High‐sensitivity chemical imaging offers a window to decipher the molecular orchestra inside a living system. Based on vibrational fingerprint signatures, coherent Raman scattering microscopy provides a label‐free approach to map biomolecules and drug molecules inside a cell. Yet, by near‐infrared (NIR) pulse excitation, the sensitivity is limited to millimolar concentration for endogenous biomolecules. Here, the imaging sensitivity of stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) is significantly boosted for retinoid molecules to 34 micromolar via electronic preresonance in the visible wavelength regime. Retinoids play critical roles in development, immunity, stem cell differentiation, and lipid metabolism. By visible preresonance SRS (VP‐SRS) imaging, retinoid distribution in single embryonic neurons and mouse brain tissues is mapped, retinoid storage in chemoresistant pancreatic and ovarian cancers is revealed, and retinoids stored in protein network and lipid droplets ofCaenorahbditis elegansare identified. These results demonstrate VP‐SRS microscopy as an ultrasensitive label‐free chemical imaging tool and collectively open new opportunities of understanding the function of retinoids in biological systems.
Bio‐assembling Macro‐Scale, Lumenized Airway Tubes of Defined Shape via Multi‐Organoid Patterning and Fusion
Authors: Liu Ye , Dabrowska Catherine , Mavousian Antranik , Strauss Bernhard , Meng Fanlong , Mazzaglia Corrado , Ouaras Karim , Macintosh Callum , Terentjev Eugene , Lee Joo‐Hyeon , Huang Yan Yan Shery
Published: February 2021

Epithelial, stem‐cell derived organoids are ideal building blocks for tissue engineering, however, scalable and shape‐controlled bio‐assembly of epithelial organoids into larger and anatomical structures is yet to be achieved. Here, a robust organoid engineering approach, Multi‐Organoid Patterning and Fusion (MOrPF), is presented to assemble individual airway organoids of different sizes into upscaled, scaffold‐free airway tubes with predefined shapes. Multi‐Organoid Aggregates (MOAs) undergo accelerated fusion in a matrix‐depleted, free‐floating environment, possess a continuous lumen, and maintain prescribed shapes without an exogenous scaffold interface. MOAs in the floating culture exhibit a well‐defined three‐stage process of inter‐organoid surface integration, luminal material clearance, and lumina connection. The observed shape stability of patterned MOAs is confirmed by theoretical modelling based on organoid morphology and the physical forces involved in organoid fusion. Immunofluorescent characterization shows that fused MOA tubes possess an unstratified epithelium consisting mainly of tracheal basal stem cells. By generating large, shape‐controllable organ tubes, MOrPF enables upscaled organoid engineering towards integrated organoid devices and structurally complex organ tubes.
A Phosphatase‐Mimetic Nano‐Stabilizer of Mast Cells for Long‐Term Prevention of Allergic Disease
Authors: Lin Peihua , Cao Mengda , Xia Fan , Liao Hongwei , Sun Heng , Wang Qiyue , Lee Jiyoung , Zhou Yan , Guan Yunan , Zhang Cheng , Xu Zhiqiang , Li Fangyuan , Wei Ji‐Fu , Ling Daishun
Published: February 2021

Allergic diseases are pathological immune responses with significant morbidity, which are closely associated with allergic mediators as released by allergen‐stimulated mast cells (MCs). Prophylactic stabilization of MCs is regarded as a practical approach to prevent allergic diseases. However, most of the existing small molecular MC stabilizers exhibit a narrow therapeutic time window, failing to provide long‐term prevention of allergic diseases. Herein, ceria nanoparticle (CeNP‐) based phosphatase‐mimetic nano‐stabilizers (PMNSs) with a long‐term therapeutic time window are developed for allergic disease prevention. By virtue of the regenerable catalytic hotspots of oxygen vacancies on the surface of CeNPs, PMNSs exhibit sustainable phosphatase‐mimetic activity to dephosphorylate phosphoproteins in allergen‐stimulated MCs. Consequently, PMNSs constantly modulate intracellular phospho‐signaling cascades of MCs to inhibit the degranulation of allergic mediators, which prevents the initiation of allergic mediator‐associated pathological responses, eventually providing protection against allergic diseases with a long‐term therapeutic time window.
Light‐Driven Cascade Mitochondria‐to‐Nucleus Photosensitization in Cancer Cell Ablation
Authors: Wang Kang‐Nan , Liu Liu‐Yi , Qi Guobin , Chao Xi‐Juan , Ma Wen , Yu Zhiqiang , Pan Qiling , Mao Zong‐Wan , Liu Bin
Published: February 2021

Nuclei and mitochondria are the only cellular organelles containing genes, which are specific targets for efficient cancer therapy. So far, several photosensitizers have been reported for mitochondria targeting, and another few have been reported for nuclei targeting. However, none have been reported for photosensitization in both mitochondria and nucleus, especially in cascade mode, which can significantly reduce the photosensitizers needed for maximal treatment effect. Herein, a light‐driven, mitochondria‐to‐nucleus cascade dual organelle cancer cell ablation strategy is reported. A functionalized iridium complex, named BT‐Ir, is designed as a photosensitizer, which targets mitochondria first for photosensitization and subsequently is translocated to a cell nucleus for continuous photodynamic cancer cell ablation. This strategy opens new opportunities for efficient photodynamic therapy.
Linking subsistence harvest diversity and productivity to adaptive capacity in an Alaskan food sharing network
Authors: Scaggs Shane A. , Gerkey Drew , McLaughlin Katherine R.
Published: February 2021

Background

Although anthropogenic climate change poses existential challenges for Indigenous communities in the Arctic, these challenges are not entirely unprecedented. Over many generations, Arctic peoples have developed a wide range of behavioral strategies to navigate environmental change and uncertainty, and these strategies provide a foundation for contemporary adaptation.

Aims

In this article, we focus on mixed cash‐subsistence economies and the social networks that underlie them in Alaska. The patterns of food production, labor exchange, and food sharing in subsistence‐oriented communities throughout Alaska are driven by the productivity of keystone households who regularly harvest and share resources within and between communities.

Materials & Methods

Building on previous research suggesting the critical importance of these networks to community resilience, we use network analysis to investigate whether patterns in resource transfers between households are associated with subsistence harvest diversity—the diversity of species harvested by a household unit. We use exponential random graph models to describe the structure of a sharing network from Aniak, Alaska, and model the links between harvest productivity, harvest diversity, and household position in this network.

Results

Our results indicate that both productivity and diversity are positively associated with network connections, and that productivity alone provides an incomplete model of network structure.

Discussion

We suggest that subsistence harvest diversity may play a unique role in supporting adaptive capacity and resilience by maintaining the productivity of keystone households despite changing environments and sustaining social network structures that circulate resources throughout the community. Harvest diversity may also serve as a broad indicator of Indigenous ecological knowledge and a tangible representation of cultural practices, values, and worldviews that underlie subsistence in Alaska.

Conclusion

Greater attention to harvest diversity is important for understanding how subsistence networks adapt to environmental change and uncertainty linked to social and ecological dynamics of anthropogenic climate change.
Mechanistic Investigation on Copper–Arylacetylide Polymerization and Sensing Applications
Authors: Liang Quanduo , Chang Xiaoyong , Su Ya‐qiong , Mugo Samuel M. , Zhang Qiang
Published: February 2021

Exploration of new polymerization reactions is very intriguing in fundamental and practical research, which will advance reaction theories and produce various functional materials. Herein, we report a new polymerization method based on the reaction of CuIand arylacetylide, which generates linear polymers with high molecular weight and low polydispersity index of molecular weight. The Cu–arylacetylide polymerization exhibits different characteristics with traditional polymerizations such as mild reaction temperature, air atmosphere reaction, high molecular weight, fast polymerization rate, and imprecise molar ratio between monomers. The bond formation path and activation energy of each step was investigated by density functional theory calculations to understand the reaction mechanism. The poly(Cu‐arylacetylide)s exhibit strong fluorescence emission and inherent semiconductive properties, which have been used to fabricate an electronic device for streptavidin sensing.
Defect‐Rich Porous Palladium Metallene for Enhanced Alkaline Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Yu Hongjie , Zhou Tongqing , Wang Ziqiang , Xu You , Li Xiaonian , Wang Liang , Wang Hongjing
Published: February 2021

Metallene with fantastic physicochemical properties is considered as a potential candidate for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Controlling the morphology and structure of metallene can provide a great opportunity to improve its catalytic performance. Herein, defect‐rich ultrathin porous Pd metallene (a sub‐nanometer and curved metal nanosheet) is developed by facile wet‐chemistry strategy for efficient and stable ORR electrocatalysis in alkaline electrolyte. The defect‐rich porous Pd metallene provides abundant highly active sites and vacancy defects, showing superior ORR activity of 0.892 A mgPd−1 at 0.9 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode. The mass activity is 5.1 and 16.8 times higher than those of commercial Pt/C and Pd/C, respectively, and maintains well after 5000 cycles. The strain effect and tunable electronic structure derived from highly curved sub‐nanometer nanosheet morphology contribute to the excellent ORR performance by the optimization of oxygen binding ability on Pd. The superior catalytic performance of Pd metallene may open an avenue to design other metallene materials for various fields.
Total Synthesis of Haliclonin A
Authors: Jin Yuan , Orihara Kensuke , Kawagishi Fumiki , Toma Tatsuya , Fukuyama Tohru , Yokoshima Satoshi
Published: February 2021

The total synthesis of haliclonin A was accomplished. Starting from 3,5‐dimethoxybenzoic acid, a functionalized cyclohexanone fused to a 17‐membered ring was prepared through a Birch reduction/alkylation sequence, ring‐closing metathesis, intramolecular cyclopropanation, and stereoselective 1,4‐addition of an organocopper reagent to an enone moiety. Reductive C−N bond formation via an N,O‐acetal forged the 3‐azabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane core. The allyl alcohol moiety was constructed by a sequence involving stereoselective α‐selenylation of an aldehyde via an enamine, syn‐elimination of a selenoxide, and allylation of the aldehyde with an allylboronate. Formation of the 15‐membered ring containing a skipped diene was achieved by ring‐closing metathesis, and final transformations led to the synthesis of haliclonin A.
Preparation and study of stable fluorine‐free superhydrophobicity of cotton fibers
Authors: Xiao Qian , Wang Bin , Huang Yuewen
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a method of directly modifying the surface of cotton fiber to achieve super‐hydrophobic properties. The process was directly utilized the long‐chain alkyl siloxane and the nano‐SiO2 modified cotton cloth, which was simple to operate, low in cost and environmentally friendly. This study discussed the influence of solvent ratio, reactant content and ammonia content on hydrophobicity. The solvent ratio had the greatest influence, and the maximum water contact angle (CA) changes were70° ± 1°. The maximum water CA of the superhydrophobic cotton fabric prepared after process selection was 162 ± 1.5°; it had good acid, alkali and salt resistance. After 24 h in a solution with a pH of 1–14, CA remained almost unchanged; After 144 h in a 3.5% salt solution, CA stabilized above 132°; it had self‐cleaning properties; it had good selective adsorption performance, which can quickly separate oil and water; it had good mechanical stability. After 300 times abrasion of sandpaper, which still shows hydrophobic properties.
Angular momentum conservation and core superfluid dynamics for the pulsar J1734‐3333
Authors: de Oliveira Heitor O. , Magalhaes Nadja S.
Published: February 2021

Pulsars emit pulsed radiation at well‐defined frequencies. In the canonical model, a pulsar is assumed to be a rotating, highly magnetized sphere made mostly of neutrons that has a magnetic dipole misaligned with respect to its rotation axis, which would be responsible for the emission of the observed pulses. The measurement of the pulse frequency and its first two derivatives allows the calculation of the braking index, n. One limitation of the canonical model is that, for all pulsars, it yields n = 3, a result that does not correspond to observational values of n. In order to contribute to the solution of this problem, we proposed a model for pulsars' rotation frequency decay assuming that the star's total moment of inertia would vary with time due to mass motions inside the core. As a result, we found that the pulsar J1734‐3333 has total angular momentum practically conserved, a phenomenon that we explain by relating the motion of neutron superfluid vortices in the core to torques associated with radiation emission.
Associate production J/ψ + γ at the Large Hadron Collider and Electron–Ion Collider
Authors: Gil da Silveira Gustavo , Melo Machado Mairon
Published: February 2021

Charmonium production associated with a photon in coherent hadron–hadron interactions at high‐energy colliders is a suitable observable to test the partonic density function in the proton and in nuclei. We employ nonrelativistic quantum chromodynamics to investigate the transverse momentum distribution and total cross sections of J/ψ + γ production at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and the electron‐ion collider (EIC). Our results show that discrimination can be made to test the parameters for the matrix elements operators, which varies by a factor of 3. A higher transverse momentum region is more sensitive for pPb collisions at the LHC, although the EIC kinematic region is also favorable at low transverse momentum.
The evidence‐based practices for children, youth, and young adults with autism report: Concerns and critiques
Authors: Leaf Justin B. , Sato Sara K. , Javed Asim , Arthur Shannon M. , Creem Ashley N. , Cihon Joseph H. , Ferguson Julia L. , Oppenheim‐Leaf Misty L.
Published: February 2021

For individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to make meaningful progress comprehensive intervention using evidence‐based practices is required. To assist with this, the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (NCAEP) recently published the Evidence‐Based Practices for Children, Youth, and Young Adults with Autism Report (Steinbrenner et al., 2020). The purpose of the NCAEP report was to provide consumers with a list of interventions that have evidence of positive effects for individuals diagnosed with ASD. The NCAEP report identified 28 interventions that were considered evidence based. Given the broad nature and visibility of the NCAEP report, it may be useful to review and discuss any potentially problematic aspects of the methods and results of the NCAEP report to help inform future updates and consumers in interpreting the findings and recommendations within the NCAEP report. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the Evidence‐Based Practices for Children, Youth, and Young Adults with Autism report and provide recommendations to behavior analysts in regard to the report.
Student Perspectives on improving mental health support Services at university
Authors: Priestley Michael , Broglia Emma , Hughes Gareth , Spanner Leigh
Published: February 2021

Drawing on thematic analysis of six student co‐creation panels, conducted during the Student Minds University Mental Health Charter consultations, this paper elucidates students’ perspectives and proposals regarding the current issues and challenges around university student mental health and well‐being support services. In particular, panels identified existing challenges and opportunities to improve support service access, strategy, and delivery. The panels generated a series of recommendations aimed to establish a clear, coordinated, and strategic approach to delivering accessible and inclusive student mental health support services that are responsive to the diverse needs of the whole student population. Significantly, the student panels situated service reforms within a ‘whole university approach’ entailing holistic structural and cultural change to the university environment, in order to enrich student mental health and well‐being and reduce demand on services. The findings of this paper can both reaffirm and specify the principles of good practice propounded by the University Mental Health Charter from a student perspective.
Catalytic Performance of Zr‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks Zr‐abtc and MIP‐200 in Selective Oxidations with H2O2
Authors: Maksimchuk Nataliya V. , Ivanchikova Irina D. , Cho Kyung Ho , Zalomaeva Olga V. , Evtushok Vasiliy Yu. , Larionov Kirill P. , Glazneva Tatiana S. , Chang Jong‐San , Kholdeeva Oxana A.
Published: February 2021

The catalytic performance of Zr‐abtc and MIP‐200 metal–organic frameworks consisting of 8‐connected Zr6 clusters and tetratopic linkers was investigated in H2O2‐based selective oxidations and compared with that of 12‐coordinated UiO‐66 and UiO‐67. Zr‐abtc demonstrated advantages in both substrate conversion and product selectivity for epoxidation of electron‐deficient C=C bonds in α,β‐unsaturated ketones. The significant predominance of 1,2‐epoxide in carvone epoxidation, coupled with high sulfone selectivity in thioether oxidation, points to a nucleophilic oxidation mechanism over Zr‐abtc. The superior catalytic performance in the epoxidation of unsaturated ketones correlates with a larger amount of weak basic sites in Zr‐abtc. Electrophilic activation of H2O2 can also be realized, as evidenced by the high activity of Zr‐abtc in epoxidation of the electron‐rich C=C bond in caryophyllene. XRD and FTIR studies confirmed the retention of the Zr‐abtc structure after the catalysis. The low activity of MIP‐200 in H2O2‐based oxidations is most likely related to its specific hydrophilicity, which disfavors adsorption of organic substrates and H2O2.
Pyrazoloadenine Inhibitors of the RET Lung Cancer Oncoprotein Discovered by a Fragment Optimization Approach
Authors: Saha Debasmita , Ryan Katie Rose , Lakkaniga Naga Rajiv , Smith Erica Lane , Frett Brendan
Published: February 2021

A fragment‐based drug‐discovery approach was used on a pyrazoloadenine fragment library to uncover new molecules that target the RET (REarranged during Transfection) oncoprotein, which is a driver oncoprotein in ∼2 % of non‐small‐cell lung cancers. The fragment library was screened against the RET kinase and LC‐2/ad (RET‐driven), KM‐12 (TRKA‐driven matched control) and A549 (cytotoxic control) cells to identify selective scaffolds that could inhibit RET‐driven growth. An unsubstituted pyrazoloadenine fragment was found to be active on RET in a biochemical assay, but reduced cell viability in non‐RET‐driven cell lines (EC50=1 and 3 μM, respectively). To increase selectivity for RET, the pyrazoloadenine was modeled in the RET active site, and two domains were identified that were probed with pyrazoloadenine fragment derivatives to improve RET affinity. Scaffolds at each domain were merged to generate a novel lead compound, 8 p, which exhibited improved activity and selectivity for the RET oncoprotein (A549 EC50=5.92 μM, LC‐2/ad EC50=0.016 μM, RET IC50=0.000326 μM).
Prevalent Bioimaging Scaffolds: Synthesis, Photophysical Properties and Applications
Authors: Colas Kilian , Doloczki Susanne , Posada Urrutia Mauricio , Dyrager Christine
Published: February 2021

This minireview describes the syntheses, structure‐photophysical properties relationship, and bioimaging applications of fluorescent coumarins, xanthenes, BODIPYs, and cyanines. Advantages and disadvantages of the emissive units are also discussed, as are general practical issues that need to be considered when using fluorophores in a biological setting.
WJMSC‐derived small extracellular vesicle enhance T cell suppression through PD‐L1
Authors: Li Meizhang , Soder Rupal , Abhyankar Sunil , Abdelhakim Haitham , Braun Mitchell W. , Trinidad Camille V. , Pathak Harsh B. , Pessetto Ziyan , Deighan Clayton , Ganguly Siddhartha , Dawn Buddhadeb , McGuirk Joseph , Dunavin Neil , Godwin Andrew K.
Published: February 2021

Both mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their corresponding small extracellular vesicles (sEVs, commonly referred to as exosomes) share similar immunomodulatory properties that are potentially beneficial for the treatment of acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD). We report that clinical grade Wharton's Jelly‐derived MSCs (WJMSCs) secrete sEVs enriched in programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1), an essential ligand for an inhibitory immune checkpoint. A rapid increase in circulating sEV‐associated PD‐L1 was observed in patients with aGvHD and was directly associated with the infusion time of clinical grade WJMSCs. In addition, in vitro inhibitory antibody mediated blocking of sEV‐associated PD‐L1 restored T cell activation (TCA), suggesting a functional inhibitory role of sEVs‐PD‐L1. PD‐L1‐deficient sEVs isolated from WJMSCs following CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing fail to inhibit TCA. Furthermore, we found that PD‐L1 is essential for WJMSC‐derived sEVs to modulate T cell receptors (TCRs). Our study reveals an important mechanism by which therapeutic WJMSCs modulate TCR‐mediated TCA through sEVs or sEV‐carried immune checkpoints. In addition, our clinical data suggest that sEV‐associated PD‐L1 may be not only useful in predicting the outcomes from WJMSC clinical administration, but also in developing cell‐independent therapy for aGvHD patients.
Fermi resonance in a molecule adsorbed on plasmonic metal film
Authors: Yaremko Anatoliy , Yukhymchuk Volodymyr , Hreshchuk Oleksandr , Koroteev Vadym , Dzhagan Volodymyr
Published: February 2021

In this work, the effect of electric field induced by localized plasmon excitation in nanostructured metal film on the vibrational spectrum of adsorbed organic molecule is studied theoretically. By using the Green function formalism, we show that electric field can significantly influence both the frequencies of the molecular vibrations and the anharmonicity constant. Consequently, if Fermi resonance can take place in the adsorbed molecule, it is spectral manifestation (in Raman spectra) will also be modified by the electric field of plasmon. We illustrate the effect with a CO2 molecule adsorbed on nanostructured gold surface, a situation relevant to the application of Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) or other plasmon‐mediated phenomena. The obtained in these work analytical expressions are shown to describe well spectral features in earlier experimental SERS studies on CO2.
Lifestyle interventions for healthy brain aging: A protocol for systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bashir Shahid , Nasim Eman , Uzair Mohammad , Niaz Asim , Zafar Aneesa , Murtaza Ghulam , Kaleem Imdad , Arshad Muhammad , Al‐Hussain Fawaz , Habib Syed Shahid
Published: February 2021

Background

The main objective of the present protocol is to assess the lifestyle interventions (eating habits, physical exercise, social and cultural participation) on the brain health as people age.

Methods

We will look at the following database sources, “The Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar,” for this protocol, which is standardized by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) Protocols. Only Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients will be eligible, and no restriction will be placed on participant's gender, age, education, ethnicity, or other demographic characteristics. All the studies based on the impact of active intervention centered on lifestyle interventions, including eating habits, sleep patterns, and physical exercise on the cognitive and functional status in the elderly populations. The primary outcome is the effects of nutrition and lifestyle interventions on the patients with AD, and secondary outcomes include body mass index, body fat percentage, and muscle mass.

Results

In this study, we hope to find lifestyle interventions, which could have a preventive effect on brain health as people age, in particular AD.

Conclusion

The conclusion of our study would suggest that a healthy lifestyle interventions, defined on the basis of proper nutrition, sleep patterns, physical exercise, and social and cultural activities, can positively influence the cognitive consequences of healthy brain aging.
Influence of external tensile stress on corrosion and trench formation of low alloy steel in a low H2S content sour corrosion environment
Authors: Samusawa Itaru , Izumi Daichi , Shimamura Junji
Published: February 2021

The influence of external tensile stress on corrosion and trench formation of low alloy steel in a low H2S content sour corrosion environment was investigated. These experiments were conducted with steel for pipelines, and electrochemical methods were used. The results showed that external stress increases the amount of corrosion weight loss and trench depth by promoting the anodic dissolution reaction, and stress concentration was proven to be one of the driving forces for trench formation due to localized corrosion. Based on the experimental findings, the mechanism of trenching was discussed from the viewpoint of promotion of the anodic dissolution reaction by dislocations.
Goat Milk Improves Glucose Homeostasis via Enhancement of Hepatic and Skeletal Muscle AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase Activation and Modulation of Gut Microbiota in Streptozocin‐Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhou Yalin , Sun Han , Li Ruijun , Qin Yong , Yu Lanlan , Chen Yuhan , Li Yong , Tan Yuwei , Zhao Runlong , Zhang Wei , Jiang Shilong , Xu Yajun
Published: February 2021

Scope

Previously, the metabolic benefits of goat milk consumption in high‐fat diet‐fed rats are demonstrated. However, the effects are only reported in one animal model and the involvement of gut microbiota is not investigated. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of goat milk consumption on glucose homeostasis and gut microbiota in streptozocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats.

Methods and Results

STZ‐induced diabetic rats are fed with three dosages of goat milk: 2.5, 5, and 10 g kg−1. Parameters related to glucose homeostasis, hepatic and skeletal muscle AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, and gut microbiota are investigated. The dose of 10 g kg−1 exerts more metabolic benefits. Goat milk consumption improves fasting glucose levels, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and promotes hepatic and skeletal muscle AMPK activation in STZ‐injected diabetic rats. Goat milk modulates gut microbiota, increases the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, and augments levels of propionic and butyric acids.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the metabolic benefits of goat milk consumption in STZ‐induced diabetic rats, which is consistent with the previous observations in high‐fat diet‐induced diabetic rats. Furthermore, this study elucidates the modulation of gut microbiota by goat milk, which likely mediates the metabolic effects of goat milk.
Effects of physical‐activity‐related anti‐weight stigma materials on implicit and explicit evaluations
Authors: Berry Tanya R. , Myre Maxine
Published: February 2021

Objective

Although there exist videos and images created by Obesity Canada and similar organizations (e.g., the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity), it is not known if the materials have the desired effect of reducing stigma against people with obesity and might have the opposite effect of increasing stigma. Therefore, two studies used implicit and explicit evaluations to examine the effectiveness of images and videos intended to reduce weight stigma.

Methods

Study 1 participants (N = 284; Mage = 31.47 years [SD = 11.26]; 177 self‐identified as women; 83 self‐identified as living with obesity) completed two implicit measures (one with images of people living with obesity and the other with control images) followed by a weight stigma questionnaire. Study 2 participants (N = 308; Mage = 31.54 years [SD = 11.35]; 153 self‐identified as women; 59 self‐identified as living with obesity) were randomly assigned to view an obesity and exercise video and images of persons with obesity, control video and images of persons with obesity, obesity and exercise video and control images, or control video and control images, followed by the implicit measures and explicit evaluation questionnaire.

Results

Implicit evaluations of the control images were more positive than the images of persons with obesity. Participants with no history of obesity who saw the control video and control images had lower weight stigma compared to participants in the other conditions.

Conclusions

Materials created to reduce weight stigma might not be effective among people with no history of obesity themselves or via a family member or friend. Intervention and health promotion researchers may wish to investigate effects of the images in combination with other messages because simply using the nonstigmatizing images is likely not enough.
Circular RNA circANKS1B acts as a sponge for miR‐152‐3p and promotes prostate cancer progression by upregulating TGF‐α expression
Authors: Tao Liang‐jun , Pan Xin‐yuan , Wang Jia‐wei , Zhang Li , Tao Ling‐song , Liang Chao‐zhao
Published: February 2021

Background

A growing number of studies indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in human diseases, and show great potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This study aimed to investigate the expression and function of circANKS1B in prostate cancer (PC).

Methods

The expression of circANKS1B and miR‐152‐3p was analyzed by real‐time quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Cell migration and invasion were measured using a transwell assay. The interaction between circANKS1B and miR‐152‐3p was confirmed by a dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. Rescue experiments were conducted to determine whether circANKS1B regulated the invasion of PC cells via the circANKS1B‐miR‐152‐3p‐TGF‐α pathway.

Results

The expression of circANKS1B was markedly upregulated in both PC cells and tissues. Moreover, high circANKS1B expression was associated with poor prognosis in PC patients. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay indicated that circANKS1B directly bound to miR‐152‐3p. Furthermore, circANKS1B negatively regulated miR‐152‐3p expression. Knockdown of circANKS1B markedly suppressed cell migration and invasion and TGF‐α expression in PC cells, whereas the effects of circANKS1B silencing were reversed by miR‐152‐3p deficiency. In addition, the impact of miR‐152‐3p silencing on invasion of circANKS1B‐deficient PC cells was also abrogated by TGF‐α deficiency. Overall, circANKS1B acts as a sponge for miR‐152‐3p to promote PC progression by upregulating TGF‐α expression.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal that circANKS1B may be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for PC.
In Situ Characterization of Ferroelectric HfO2 During Rapid Thermal Annealing
Authors: Narasimhan Vijay Kris , McBriarty Martin E. , Passarello Donata , Adinolfi Valerio , Toney Michael F. , Mehta Apurva , Littau Karl A.
Published: February 2021

Thermal annealing is critical in governing the phase distribution, and ultimately the electrical properties, of ferroelectric hafnium oxide films. In particular, rapid thermal annealing (RTA) has been shown to favor the formation of ferroelectric crystal phases, but the dynamic behavior of the film over the course of the anneal is not well understood. Herein, synchrotron X‐ray diffraction is used to characterize the phase distribution of HfO2 films deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) in situ during RTA, revealing complex phase transformations occurring on the scale of seconds. All samples investigated here transform into a nonmonoclinic phase, which is required for ferroelectric films. However, this phase often converts into the more stable monoclinic phase as annealing proceeds. The kinetic barrier to the transformation to the monoclinic phase during heating is higher than 1 eV f.u.−1 The initial crystallization into the ferroelectric phase and relatively high barrier to transformation to the nonferroelectric phase suggests that careful control of the thermal annealing profile can greatly increase the ferroelectric fraction of the film. By using a fast ramp rate and a short annealing time above the ferroelectric crystallization temperature, the remanent polarization of a pure HfO2 film can be increased more than twofold.
PPh3 Catalyzed Post‐Transformation Ugi‐4CR Intramolecular Cyclization Reaction: One‐Pot Synthesis of Functionalized Spiropyrrolidinochromanones
Authors: Singh Chouhan Pradeep , Singh Deepti , Purohit Pooja , Sharma Gaurav , Kant Ruchir , Shukla Sanjeev K. , Chauhan Prem M. S.
Published: February 2021

Stereoselective post‐transformation of Ugi‐4CR approach leading to synthesis of functionalized spiropyrrolidinochromanones via PPh3 catalysed intramolecular cyclization. In addition, one major finding was that, the solvent play the role of nucleophile, thus providing a highly atom economical and environmentally benign approach towards the synthesis of spiropyrrolidinochromanones.
High‐Efficiency Quasi‐2D Perovskite Solar Cells Incorporating 2,2′‐Biimidazolium Cation
Authors: Fu Weifei , Zhao Ting , Liu Hongbin , Lin Francis , Zuo Lijian , Li Xiaosong , Jen Alex K.-Y.
Published: February 2021

Quasi‐2D perovskites are attractive because of their improved stability compared with 3D perovskites counterparts; however, they suffer from poor performance due to the insulating organic cation spacers. To resolve this issue, a strategy of replacing the insulating spacer with conducting spacer is proposed which successfully converts the spacer from a charge‐transporting “barrier” to charge‐transporting “bridge.” Specifically, an alkyl linker‐free, fully conjugated aromatic 2,2′‐biimidazolium (BIDZ) cation is introduced as a spacer to compose quasi‐2D perovskites. Density functional theory (DFT) simulation results show that the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) level localizes on BIDZ and the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) level is on the perovskite. However, both HOMO and LUMO levels localize on perovskite slabs for the well‐known phenethylammonium (PEA)‐based 2D perovskites. The strong electronic coupling between BIDZ and 3D perovskite slabs improves carrier mobilities even for a low‐weak‐crystallinity and random‐orientated quasi‐2D perovskite film. As a result, a remarkable power conversion efficiency up to 11.4% (n = 5) is achieved, which is much higher than that of PEA‐based random‐orientated quasi‐2D perovskites with the same processing condition (6.5%). The strategy paves the way to highly efficient and stable quasi‐2D perovskites solar cells through designing new organic spacer cations.
Growth performance and reproductive function impairment of glyphosate‐based herbicide in male guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)
Authors: Mutwedu Valence Bwana , Nyongesa Albert Wafula , Azine Pascaline Ciza , Chiregereza Daniel Katulanya , Ngoumtsop Victor Herman , Mugumaarhahama Yannick , Ayagirwe Rodrigue Basengere Balthazar
Published: February 2021

Glyphosate formulations, widely applied non‐selective systemic herbicides, are progressively becoming the most controversial pesticides on the market due the adverse effects they pose to humans and environment. The information on these potential hazardous effects to the handlers of the pesticide remains obscure. This study investigated effects of glyphosate‐based herbicide on growth performance, seminal parameters and hemato‐biochemical profiles in male guinea pig. Forty sexually mature male guinea pigs weighing between 393.3 and 418.4 g were divided into four groups of 10 animals each and orally administered 0, 186, 280 and 560 mg/kg body weight of WILLOSATE daily for 60 days. Daily feed intake and body weight gain were recorded. At the end of experimental period all animals were humanely sacrificed, and blood samples and vital organs were collected for appropriate analysis. Results showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in body weight gain (−102.2%), final body weight (−9.8%) and feed intake (−13.1%) of animals following sub‐chronic exposure of WILLOSATE. The weights of the liver and kidney increased significantly (p < 0.05) by 25.4% and 28.8%, respectively, while testicular weights decreased (p < 0.05) by 24% with increasing doses of WILLOSATE. A decrease in sperm motility (−67.9%), viability (−52.7%) and concentration per vas deferens (−40.7%), and an increase in sperm major (28.1%) and minor (45.3%) morphological aberrations were recorded in WILLOSATE – exposed guinea pigs when compared to controls. There was a dose‐dependent increase (p < 0.05) in MCV and WBC and a decrease in Hb content and RBC, as well as serum content in total protein (−11.8%). The serum content of cholesterol (37.8%), urea (87.1%), creatinine (22.4%), ALAT (74.2%) and ASAT (88.7%) were significantly higher in treated groups compared to controls. These results point toward the toxic effects of WILLOSATE on vital organs and reproductive function of the body at high doses and long‐term exposure.
Surface water treatment for production of potable water by coagulation/filtration/nanofiltration membranes hybrid system
Authors: Sima Mirzadeh Seyedeh , Amirinejad Mehdi
Published: February 2021

Providing potable water will be a challenge for humanity over the next years. In this research, water samples from the Gamasiab River (Iran) were purified to achieve drinking water by applying coagulation, conventional filtration in combination with the nanofiltration process. By using poly aluminum chloride as a coagulant, the turbidity decreased by 96.4%. The turbidity and COD decreased by 98.82% and 32.7%, respectively, via passing the effluent through the activated carbon. Membranes were made of polyethersulfone (PES). Cesium hydrogen phosphotungstic acid (Cs0.5H2.5PW12O40 as CsPW) nanoparticles were incorporated into the polymer matrix to improve the hydrophilicity. The morphology of membranes was studied using the FE‐SEM and AFM. The pure water flux and contact angle for the sulfonated PES with 1.5 wt.% CsPW were 51.9 kg/m2 h and 55.49 °, respectively. The percentage of the turbidity, conductivity, TDS, and COD removal was found to be 99.9, 89.3, 89.3, and 86.6%, respectively, after the hybrid process. The removal of calcium, magnesium, nitrate, chloride, sodium, sulfate, and bicarbonate ions was 90.5, 83.4, 87.9, 60.7, 49, 86, and 80.5%, respectively. Based on these results, the river water meets the standards for drinking water after being purified by applying the aforementioned coagulation/filtration and nanofiltration processes.

Practitioner Points

The treatment of the Gamasiab River (Iran) was selected for this study to produce potable water.

A hybrid systematic coagulation/filtration/nanofiltration (NF) was considered.

Water quality parameters were measured and compared with the standard values.

The cesium hydrogen phosphotungstic acid was incorporated into the NF to increase the hydrophilicity and water flux.

Polyethersulfone was sulfonated to add the sulfonyl group to the polymer.
Structural and electronic properties of the metal cluster‐based compounds including high concentration of solvent molecules
Authors: Saito Norio , Lemoine Pierric , Cordier Stéphane , Matsushita Yoshitaka , Ohsawa Takeo , Grasset Fabien , Cross Jeffrey Scott , Ohashi Naoki
Published: February 2021

Recrystallization of Cs2[Mo6X14] (X=Cl, Br) was examined using typical organic solvents, i. e., methanol (CH3OH), acetone (CH3COCH3) and dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) in order to modify crystal structures and optoelectronic properties by promoting purity or inducing insertion of guest molecules. To this context, we performed recrystallization in solvent liquid and exposure of Cs2[Mo6X14] to vapor of those solvents. Subsequent single crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses revealed that three new types of compounds which contain high concentration of guest organic solvent molecules were obtained. Indeed, the newly found structures are Cs2[Mo6Cl14] ⋅ 3CH3OH and Cs2[Mo6X14] ⋅ 6CH3COCH3 belonging to triclinic
space group, and Cs2[Mo6X14] ⋅ 4CH2Cl2 belonging to tetragonal P4/mnc space group. Although breaking of centrosymmetry by insertion of the guest molecule is interesting in terms of optoelectronic properties, all those new compounds belong to centrosymmetric space groups. As DFT calculations for those new compounds show that the guest molecules, such as CH3OH, do not affect the atomic arrangements and electronic features of the [Mo6X14]2− cluster based unit, they incorporated with the lattice while keeping with the electrostatic interaction between the [Mo6X14]2− and Cs+ ions regardless of the very high concentration of the guest solvent molecules.
Cytotoxic Activities of Bis‐cyclometalated Rhodium(III) and Iridium(III) Complexes Containing 2,2’‐Biphenyldiamine
Authors: Graf Marion , Böttcher Hans‐Christian , Metzler‐Nolte Nils , Sünkel Karlheinz , Thavalingam Sugina , Czerwieniec Rafał
Published: February 2021

The synthesis and characterization of new bis‐cyclometalated complex salts [M(ptpy)2(2,2’‐biphenyldiamine)]PF6 (M=Rh, 1; M=Ir, 2; ptpy=2‐(p‐tolyl)pyridinato) are described. Compounds 1 and 2 were obtained by bridge‐splitting reactions of [{M(μ‐Cl)(ptpy)2}2] (M=Rh or Ir) with 2,2’‐biphenyldiamine in CH2Cl2/MeOH/H2O mixtures. The molecular structure of compound 2 in the crystal was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray

diffraction. 2 crystallized from dichloromethane/methanol/n‐heptane in the monoclinic space group P21/n. The cytotoxic activities of both new compounds were examined and evaluated. Compound 1 and 2 exhibit significant cytotoxicity against human cancer cell lines with the IC50 values in the low micromolar range.
Inclusion or Exclusion: UK Education Policy and Roma Pupils
Authors: Rogers Carol
Published: February 2021

Education is widely recognised as a key factor in improving social mobility and improving life chances. Therefore, this is fundamental to UK education policy which aims to improve outcomes for all children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. As a result of expansion of the European Union over the past decade, there has been an increase in the number of Central and Eastern European Roma families settling the United Kingdom. Together with indigenous Gypsies and Travellers, Roma families remain some of the most marginalised and disadvantaged families in the UK, with Gypsy and Roma children having the poorest educational outcomes of all pupil groups. An inclusive educational philosophy underpins the UK educational system, however, there is a tension between current austerity measures and outcome driven education policy and the principles of inclusive practice. Whilst there are examples of good practice and inclusive educational experiences for Roma children, some barriers and exclusions are also evident.
Duality of Humans: The Wish to Learn and Not to Learn
Authors: Timmer Andria D. , Erős Máté
Published: February 2021

The segregated nature of education for the Hungarian Roma has been well-documented. Solutions to overcoming this segregation are often focusing on adding education interventions tailored to Roma youth. We argue that although education can be empowering, it can also be used as a tool to maintain the status quo. Education is dualistic and paradoxical in that it can both empower and enslave. In this chapter we use a philosophical lens to examine how the dualistic nature of education and humans can cause impediments to equal access to quality education for the Hungarian Roma. We identify some of the real obstacles to providing education to Hungarian Roma and disadvantaged youth, outline the philosophical underpinnings of these obstacles, and propose potential solutions. We use a school that has had success in providing educational tools for Roma and disadvantaged youth, MÁV School in Budapest, as a model to explain both the paradoxes and the solutions to overcome these paradoxes. Our goal is to provide insight into the educational situation for the Hungarian Roma and to make space for the reader to implement different attitudes and strategies to succeed in creating a sustainable model of education for Roma and other marginalized youth.
“I Felt I Arrived Home”: The Minority Trajectory of Mobility for First-in-Family Hungarian Roma Graduates
Authors: Durst Judit , Bereményi Ábel
Published: February 2021

This chapter explores the upward social mobility trajectories, and the corollary prices of them for those 45, first-in-family college educated Roma in Hungary who come from socially disadvantaged and marginalised family and community background. We argue that among the academically high-achieving participants of our study the most common upward mobility trajectory, contrary to the common belief of assimilation, is their distinctive minority mobility path which leads to their selective acculturation into the majority society. This distinctive incorporation into the mainstream is close to what the related academic scholarship calls the ‘minority culture of mobility’. The three main elements of this distinct mobility trajectory among the Roma are (1) The construction of a Roma middle class identity that takes belonging to the Roma community as a source of pride, in contrast of the widespread racial stereotypes in Hungary (and all over Europe) that are closely tied to the perception of Roma as a member of the underclass, (2) The creation of grass-roots ethnic (Roma) organizations and (3) The practice of giving back to their people of origin that relegate many Roma professionals to a particular segment of the labour market, in jobs to help communities in need. However, we argue that in the case of the Hungarian Roma, these elements of the minority culture of mobility did not serve the purpose of their economic mobility as the original concepts (Neckerman et al. Ethnic and Racial Studies 22(6):945–965, 1999) posits, but to mitigate the price of changing social class and to make sense of the hardship of their social ascension.
From “Unsettled Fortune-Tellers” to Socialist Workers: Education Policies and Roma in Early Soviet Union
Authors: Dunajeva Jekatyerina
Published: February 2021

This chapter embeds Roma identity formation in the politics of early Soviet Union, by examining the role schools played in delineating boundaries of belonging and the sense of nationhood. I analyze education policies and politics towards minorities in the 1920s and ‘1930s through textbooks in Romani language from the time. I show that textbooks, often through educating basic grammar to children, sought to alter their identities from “unsettled fortune-tellers” to working Roma. Roma way of life was equated with oppression of the old, pre-revolutionary times, while new, Socialist life that Roma were to become part of was characterized by equality and work. What was seen as the traditional Roma way of life was incompatible with the goals of the state, and schools were to “transform” Roma children into productive Socialist workers. Socialism, therefore, was seen as the emancipation and empowerment Roma needed in order to leave their “backwards” habits in the past.