bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of Oxygen Electrode Performance of Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Cells by Spray Pyrolysis Deposited Active Layers
Authors: Kamecki Bartosz , Karczewski Jakub , Jasiński Piotr , Molin Sebastian
Published: March 2021

Intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells oxygen electrodes are modified by active interfacial layers. Spray pyrolysis is used to produce thin (≈500 nm) layers of mixed ionic and electronic conductors: Sm0.5Sr0.5CoO3−δ (SSC), La0.6Sr0.4CoO3−δ (LSC), La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF), and Pr6O11 (PrOx) on the electrode–electrolyte interface. The influence of the annealing temperature on the electrode polarization (area specific resistance—ASRpol) is investigated by impedance spectroscopy of symmetrical electrodes in the temperature range of 400–700 °C. The results show that the introduction of nanocrystalline interlayers promotes an oxygen reduction reaction by extending the active surface area and improved contact between the electrode and the electrolyte. Introducing LSCF, LSC, or SSC interlayer reduces ASRpol by a factor of 4 and PrOx by a factor of 2 against the reference, powder processed LSCF electrode. At 600 °C, the obtained ASRpol values for PrOx, LSCF, LSC, and SSC interlayer are 245, 137, 119, and 107 mΩ cm2, which can be considered very low in comparison to standard powder processed oxygen electrodes. Anode supported single cell with developed LSC/LSCF electrode reveals ≈1.2 W cm−2 power output at 600 °C and maintains stable cell voltage of 0.75 V under 1 A cm−2 during 60 h of the test.
CD38‐Targeted Theranostics of Lymphoma with 89Zr/177Lu‐Labeled Daratumumab
Authors: Kang Lei , Li Cuicui , Rosenkrans Zachary T. , Huo Nan , Chen Zhao , Ehlerding Emily B. , Huo Yan , Ferreira Carolina A. , Barnhart Todd E. , Engle Jonathan W. , Wang Rongfu , Jiang Dawei , Xu Xiaojie , Cai Weibo
Published: March 2021

Lymphoma is a heterogeneous disease with varying clinical manifestations and outcomes. Many subtypes of lymphoma, such as Burkitt′s lymphoma and diffuse large B cell lymphoma, are highly aggressive with dismal prognosis even after conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. As such, exploring specific biomarkers for lymphoma is of high clinical significance. Herein, a potential marker, CD38, is investigated for differentiating lymphoma. A CD38‐targeting monoclonal antibody (mAb, daratumumab) is then radiolabeled with Zr‐89 and Lu‐177 for theranostic applications. As the diagnostic component, the Zr‐89‐labeled mAb is highly specific in delineating CD38‐positive lymphoma via positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, while the Lu‐177‐labeled mAb serves well as the therapeutic component to suppress tumor growth after a one‐time administration. These results strongly suggest that CD38 is a lymphoma‐specific marker and prove that 89Zr/177Lu‐labeled daratumumab facilitates immunoPET imaging and radioimmunotherapy of lymphoma in preclinical models. Further clinical evaluation and translation of this CD38‐targeted theranostics may be of significant help in lymphoma patient stratification and management.
Wireless‐Powered VOCs Sensor Based on Energy‐Harvesting Metamaterial
Authors: Lee Wonwoo , Park Heejoo , Kim So Young , Park Sung‐Min , Kim Do Hwan , Lee Hojin
Published: March 2021

Wireless‐powered volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are designed by combining an energy‐harvesting metamaterial (EH‐MM) and ionic thermoplastic polyurethane (i‐TPU) as a wireless sensing platform and VOCs sensing material within the microwave frequency, respectively. Using the multi‐analyte sensing capability of an i‐TPU film, the EH‐MM sensor can distinguish different VOCs such as toluene, hexane, ethanol, and acetone, which cause harmful effects on the human body, by simply obtaining the corresponding output voltage levels without any complicated analysis system. The proposed EH‐MM sensor also shows fast and immediate responses (<1 s), a wide range of VOCs concentrations (5–1000 ppm), and long‐term stability (>1 month) under ambient conditions. Moreover, by harvesting commercially accessible WiFi energy, the proposed sensor does not require any battery but can be operated wirelessly, representing a novel method for designing real‐time and battery‐free sensors with a reliable performance.
Memristive Devices with Multiple Resistance States Based on the Migration of Protons in α‐MoO3/SrCoO2.5 Stacks
Authors: Wang Zhe , Huang He‐Ming , Guo Xin
Published: March 2021

Memristive devices are building blocks for neuromorphic computing. However, non‐ideal properties of memristive devices, such as bad retention, small number of resistance states, and nonlinear pulse programming hinder the development of neuromorphic computation. Based on proton migration in the α‐MoO3/SrCoO2.5 stack, a Pt/α‐MoO3/SrCoO2.5/Nb‐SrTiO3 memristive device is developed with multiple resistance states and excellent nonvolatility. When protons migrate from α‐MoO3 to the SrCoO2.5 lattice, both layers undergo a resistance increase, due to a reduced doping level in α‐MoO3 along with the loss of protons, and a larger direct bandgap of SrCoO2.5 resulted from the insertion of protons. While protons migrate from SrCoO2.5 to α‐MoO3, the device resistance decreases, because of the increased proton concentration in α‐MoO3 and the decreased proton concentration in the SrCoO2.5 layer. The device also realizes nearly linear potentiation and depression under appropriate pulse schemes. A three‐layer backpropagation neural network constructed with the memristive devices acquires an accuracy of 94.3% for the recognition of MNIST handwritten digits.
Food consumption–production response to agricultural policy and macroeconomic change in Nigeria
Authors: Ecker Olivier , Hatzenbuehler Patrick L.
Published: March 2021

Achieving agricultural transformation and farmer resilience in resource‐dependent developing countries like Nigeria is complicated by volatile macroeconomic conditions, which disrupt agricultural supply chains through income, foreign exchange, and risk‐mitigation effects. This study examines the food consumption–production linkage in Nigeria at a time when the national Agricultural Transformation Agenda was implemented and an economic crisis was unfolding. Many farm households responded to expected shocks by planting more staple foods for own consumption at the expense of agricultural commercialization, income growth, and dietary diversification. A policy initiative to improve access to modern farm inputs appeared to mitigate these adverse effects.
Validation of resistance to root‐knot nematode incorporated in peanut from the wild relative Arachis stenosperma
Authors: Ballén‐Taborda Carolina , Chu Ye , Ozias‐Akins Peggy , Timper Patricia , Jackson Scott A. , Bertioli David J. , Leal‐Bertioli Soraya C.M.
Published: March 2021

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) root‐knot nematode (PRKN) Meloidogyne arenaria is a very destructive pathogen to which most peanut cultivars are highly susceptible. Current peanut cultivars rely on a single locus for PRKN resistance incorporated from the wild relative A. cardenasii Krapov. & W.C. Greg., that could be overcome as a result of the emergence of new nematode populations. Thus, new sources of resistance are continually needed. A new and strong resistance has been found in the wild diploid relative, A. stenosperma Krapov. & W.C. Greg. Arachis stenosperma‐derived quantitative trait loci (QTL) were described on chromosomes A02 and A09 and reduced nematode development by up to 98.2%. In order to validate these resistance segments, this study screened for PRKN resistance in BC2F1 lines and correlated with molecular genotypes. Here, six BC2F1s carrying chromosome introgressions in A02 and/or A09, showed strong resistance while one line was susceptible. Both phenotype and genotype data allowed us to validate and delineate the chromosomal segments in chromosomes A02 and A09 to ∼8.5Mbp and ∼6.5Mbp regions on the bottom of each, respectively. Within the QTL on A02 and top middle of both chromosomes A02 and A09 there are R‐gene clusters, often implicated in pathogen resistance. We have provided validation of these key resistance QTL that can be used to inform breeding via marker selection and insights into the functional basis of resistance provided by the wild peanut relative A. stenosperma.
Criminal Justice and Community Psychology: Our Values and Our Work—The Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Shaw Jessica , Rade Candalyn B. , Fisher Benjamin W. , Freund Nicole , Tompsett Carolyn J.
Published: March 2021

This special issue of The American Journal of Community Psychology originated from the Society for Community Research and Action Criminal Justice interest group, with a goal of exploring the work of community psychologists intersecting with criminal justice research, practice, and policy and shaped by our shared values—equity, collaboration, creative maladjustment, social justice, and social science in the service of social justice. In this introduction, we discuss the socio‐historical context of the special issue, followed by an outline of the special issue organization, and brief summary of the included papers. Across 13 papers and an invited commentary, we see the ways in which community psychologists are: (1) delivering and evaluating services, programming, or other supports to address the needs of system‐involved people; and (2) working to improve the systems, structures, and interactions with units of criminal justice systems. Across these two sections, authors highlight the guiding role of our values to influence change within and outside of criminal‐legal systems.
Application of Transition Metal‐Catalyzed C−H Activation Strategies in the Synthesis and Functionalization of β‐Carbolines
Authors: Riyazahmed Khan Saleha , Bora Darshana , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: March 2021

β‐Carboline and its derivatives are well‐known for their biological and pharmacological properties and are considered as an important source of drug or drug leads. The traditional methods employed for the construction of β‐carbolines present certain limitations surfacing requirements for a better approach. The catalytic C−H activation strategy offers an attractive route owing to step‐ and atom‐economy. The transition metal‐catalyzed C−H activation has not just been employed for the synthesis of β‐carboline scaffold but also has paved the way for functionalization, scrutinizing the intrinsic directing property of β‐carbolines. This review focuses on exploring the efficiency of C−H activation in fabricating and functionalizing β‐carbolines, including the overview of substrate scope, regioselectivity and synthesis of some of the related natural products.
Transparency, Stokes, and Anti‐Stokes Processes in a Multimode Quadratic Coupling System with Parametric Amplifier
Authors: He Qing , Badshah Fazal , Li Liping , Wang Lianbei , Su Shi‐Lei , Liang Erjun
Published: March 2021

A study on optomechanically induced transparency (OMIT) and the output power at the Stokes (anti‐Stokes) frequency in a hybrid optomechanical system is presented. The system consists of a Fabry–Pérot cavity, two non‐absorbing membranes, and a degenerate optical parametric amplifier (OPA), where the coupling interaction between the cavity and each membrane is quadratic. This study shows that spacing between two transparency window dips in a wider detuning range and the higher transparency efficiency can be achieved by selecting the suitable strength of the quadratic coupling. In addition, it is also found that frequencies of the two mechanical membranes, the nonlinear gain of the OPA, and phase of the field driving OPA can exert a striking influence on the output power at the Stokes (anti‐Stokes) frequency. Specifically, with the increase of the nonlinear parameter of OPA, spacing between two dips on the normalized output power at the Stokes frequency becomes much wider for two membranes with the same frequency. Three peaks on the normalized output power at the anti‐Stokes frequency appear in a larger detuning. In quantum engineering, this scheme may have potential applications in enhancing the performance of OMIT devices.
Force‐Induced Turn‐On Persistent Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence in Purely Organic Luminogen
Authors: Ren Jia , Wang Yunsheng , Tian Yu , Liu Zhenjiang , Xiao Xiangheng , Yang Jie , Fang Manman , Li Zhen
Published: March 2021

Research of purely organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials has been a hot topic, especially for those with stimulus response character. Herein, an abnormal stimulus‐responsive RTP effect is reported, in which, purely organic luminogen of Czs‐ph‐3F shows turn‐on persistent phosphorescence under grinding. Careful analyses of experimental results, coupled with the theoretical calculations, show that the transition of molecular conformation from quasi‐axial to quasi‐equatorial of the phenothiazine group should be mainly responsible for this exciting result. Furthermore, the applications of stylus printing and thermal printing are both successfully realized, based on the unique RTP effect of Czs‐ph‐3F.
Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Enables Heterogeneous Asymmetric Insertion of Carbenoids into Amines Catalyzed by Rhodium Nanoparticles
Authors: Masuda Ryusuke , Yasukawa Tomohiro , Yamashita Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Shū
Published: March 2021

Development of stable heterogeneous catalyst systems is a crucial subject to achieve sustainable society. Though metal nanoparticles are robust species, the study of asymmetric catalysis by them has been restricted because methods to activate metal nanoparticles without causing metal leaching were limited. We developed Rh nanoparticle catalysts (NCI‐Rh) supported on nitrogen‐doped carbon as a solid ligand to interact with metals for asymmetric insertion of carbenoids into N−H bonds cocatalyzed by chiral phosphoric acid. Nitrogen dopants played a crucial role in both catalytic activity and enantioselectivity while almost no catalysis was observed with Rh nanoparticles immobilized on supports without nitrogen dopants. Various types of chiral α‐amino acid derivatives were synthesized in high yields with high enantioselectivities and NCI‐Rh could be reused in seven runs. Furthermore, we demonstrated the corresponding continuous‐flow reaction using a column packed with NCI‐Rh. The desired product was obtained efficiently for over 90 h through the reactivation of NCI‐Rh and the chiral source could be recovered.
The Electrolysis of Anti‐Perovskite Li2OHCl for Prelithiation of High‐Energy‐Density Batteries
Authors: Guo Lulu , Xin Chen , Gao Jian , Zhu Jianxun , Hu Yiming , Zhang Ying , Li Junpeng , Fan Xiulin , Li Yutao , Li Hong , Qiu Jieshan , Zhou Weidong
Published: March 2021

Anti‐perovskite type Li2OHCl was previously studied as a solid‐state Li+ conductor. Here, we report that the Li2OHCl can be electrolyzed at 3.3 V or 4.0 V, with the creation of O2/HCl gases and the release of 2 equiv. Li+ via two different decomposition routes, depending on the acidity of electrolyte. In the electrolyte with trace acid, the Li2OHCl is oxidized at a constant voltage of 3.3 V. In neutral electrolyte, the oxidization of Li2OHCl starts at 4.0 V, but the produced HCl will increase the acidity of electrolyte and lead to a voltage drop to 3.3 V for the electrolysis of Li2OHCl. The electrolysis of Li2OHCl delivers a lithium releasing capacity as high as 810 mAh g−1, with an equivalent Li‐deposition or Li‐intercalation on anode, making it a promising candidate as a Li reservoir for prelithiation of anode. Using Li2OHCl as the lithium source, silicon‐carbon (Si@C) composite anode can be effectively prelithiated. The full cells composed of LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) cathode and prelithiated Si@C anode exhibited increased capacities with the increment of prelithiation dosages.
Dienes and diamondoids: poly(2‐[1‐adamantyl]‐1,3‐butadiene) and random copolymers with isoprene via redox‐emulsion polymerization and their hydrogenation
Authors: Hill Connor J. , McDonald Armando G. , Roll Mark F.
Published: March 2021

A novel route to adamantane substituted diene copolymers is demonstrated using emulsion polymerization, with an improved monomer synthesis. Heterogenous dehydration of 2‐(1‐adamantyl)‐3‐buten‐2‐ol using Amberlyst®‐15 cationic exchange resin at ambient temperature gave 2‐(1‐adamantyl)‐1,3‐butadiene (1) in excellent yield and presents an attractive alternative monomer synthesis route. Emulsion polymerization of 1 and mixtures of 1 and isoprene was carried out at room temperature using redox pair, hydroperoxide initiator. All poly(1) and poly(1‐ran‐isoprene) samples were soluble in common organic solvents and exhibited high 1,4‐microstructure. A continuous increase in glass transition temperature from −63 to 172°C was observed by increasing the ratio of 1 in the comonomer feed of poly(1‐ran‐isoprene), and Tg values were in good agreement with the Fox equation. After complete hydrogenation to poly(1‐vinyladamantane‐alt‐ethylene‐ran‐propylene‐alt‐ethylene), a continuous increase in Tg was observed from −55 to 152°C. The high solubility and improved access to 2‐(1‐adamantyl)‐1,3‐butadiene opens the door to exploration of diene polymers with enhanced high temperature properties.
Bio‐resourced eugenol derived phthalonitrile resin for high temperature composite
Authors: Ning Yi , Li Dian‐sen , Wang Ming‐cun , Jiang Lei
Published: March 2021

Eugenol (EG) is an abundant renewable compound that has been widely used in the synthesis of bio‐based thermosetting resin, but there are few reports on the phthalonitrile (PN) resin derived from EG. In this study, a new kind of bio‐based PN resin (MEG‐PN) derived from EG derivative was successfully synthesized. PN is a traditional class of high‐performance thermosets with poor processability for its ultra‐high melting point and curing temperature. The MEG‐PN resin possesses excellent processability: its melting temperature is much lower (77°C), and it can be cured at a moderate temperature (281°C) in the absence of curing agents. The cured MEG‐PN resin exhibited great heat resistance according to its 5% weight loss temperature at 448°C and its char yield percentage as high as 75.6% at 800°C under nitrogen. The properties of the carbon‐fiber reinforced MEG‐PN composite were comparable to those of petroleum‐based PN resins: the glass transition temperature was around 397°C; the flexural strength and modulus were as high as 756 MPa and 119 GPa, respectively. Overall, a bio‐based PN thermoset with great comprehensive performance was synthesized possessing the potential in the application of advanced composite.
Bombyx mori can synthesize ascorbic acid through the l‐gulose pathway to varying degrees depending on developmental stage
Authors: Hou Man , Dai Tai‐Ming , Liang Xin‐Yin , Zhang Sheng‐Xiang , Cui Wen‐Zhao , Qiu Jian‐Feng , Sima Yang‐Hu , Cui Wei‐Zheng , Xu Shi‐Qing
Published: March 2021

Vitamin C (VC) is an essential nutrient for many animals. However, whether insects, including Bombyx mori, can synthesize VC remains unclear. In this article, the optimized HPLC method was used to determine the content of l‐ascorbic acid (AsA) in silkworm eggs, larvae and pupae, and the activity of l‐gulono‐1,4‐lactone oxidase (GULO), a key enzyme in VC synthesis. The RNA interference method was used to determine the effect of the BmGulo‐like gene on embryonic development and GULO activity in the pupal fat body. The AsA content increased significantly during E144 h–E168 h in the late embryonic stage and P48 h–P144 h in the middle‐late pupal stage, in which exogenous VC was not ingested. Furthermore, the body AsA content in larvae fed VC‐free feed also increased with larval stage. The GULO enzymatic activity was present in eggs and the fat bodies of larvae and pupae, even when the larvae were reared with fresh mulberry leaves. Moreover, the activity was higher in the later embryonic stages (E144 h–E168 h) and the early pupal stage (before P24 h). The GULO activity in the pupal fat body dramatically decreased when the screened BmGulo‐like gene (BGIBMGA005735) was knocked down with small interfering RNA; in addition, the survival rate and hatching rate of eggs significantly decreased 21% and 44%, respectively, and embryonic development was delayed. Thus, Bombyx mori can synthesize AsA through the l‐gulose pathway, albeit with low activity, and this synthesis ability varies with developmental stages.
De novo transcriptome assemblies of Epicauta tibialis provide insights into the sexual dimorphism in the production of cantharidin
Authors: Du Chao , Li Wujiao , Fu Zhaohui , Yi Chunyan , Liu Xu , Yue Bisong
Published: March 2021

Blister beetles have medicinal uses for their defensive secretion cantharidin, which has curative effects on many cancers and other diseases. It was demonstrated that sexual dimorphism exists in the production of cantharidin between male and female adults. This study performed a de novo assembly of Epicauta tibialis transcriptomes and analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between male and female adults to help to find genes and pathways associated with cantharidin biosynthesis. A total of 99,295,624 paired reads were generated, and more than 7 Gb transcriptome data for each sample were obtained after trimming. The clean data were used to de novo assemble and then cluster into 27,355 unigenes, with a mean length of 1442 bp and an N50 of 2725 bp. Of these, 14,314 (52.33%) unigenes were annotated by protein databases. Differential expression analysis identified 284 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between male and female adults. Nearly 239 DEGs were up‐regulated in male adults than in female adults, while 45 DEGs were down‐regulated. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes pathway enrichment manifested that seven up‐regulated DEGs in male adults were assigned to the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway, to which 19 unigenes were annotated. The DEGs in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway between male and female adults may be responsible for the sexual dimorphism in cantharidin production. The up‐regulated genes assigned to the pathway in male adults may play a significant role in cantharidin biosynthesis, and its biosynthesis process is probably via the mevalonate pathway. The results would be helpful to better understand and reveal the complicated mechanism of the cantharidin biosynthesis.
Which are the determinants of green purchase behaviour? A study of Italian consumers
Authors: Dangelico Rosa Maria , Nonino Fabio , Pompei Alessandro
Published: March 2021

Green purchase behaviour is receiving a growing attention in the academic community, as understanding it is crucial for the growing number of companies developing and marketing green products. In order to provide a broader and novel picture of the phenomenon, this study extends the widely used Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model in several ways, through a large survey of Italian consumers. First, three dimensions of green purchase behaviour are considered, namely, the willingness to pay a premium price, the green purchase frequency and the green purchase satisfaction. Second, several antecedents are considered simultaneously. Third, new (consumer creativity) or so far marginally studied (materialism and green practices) antecedents are included. Fourth, the mediating roles of green purchase satisfaction and willingness to pay a premium price in the link between the considered antecedents and the frequency of green purchase are investigated.

Results show that the three dimensions of green purchase behaviour have different antecedents, so highlighting that green purchase behaviour is a multi‐faceted phenomenon that should not be studied as a single general concept. Personal norms and value for money emerged to be very relevant predictors. The significant effects of creativity, materialism and green practices provide evidence that extending the TPB model with these three antecedents is useful to more deeply understand green purchase behaviour. Green purchase satisfaction is the strongest predictor of purchase frequency and mediates the effects of personal norms and value for money.
Purification and Structural Characterization of Dendrobium officinale Polysaccharides and Its Activities
Authors: Wang Li‐Xia , Li Chi‐Yu , Hu Chen , Gong Pi‐Sen , Zhao Shao‐Hua
Published: March 2021

In this study, Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (named DOPS‐1) was isolated from the stems of Dendrobium officinale by hot‐water extraction and purified by using Sephadex G‐150 column chromatography. The structural characterization, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity were carried out. Based on the results of HPLC, GC, Congo red experiment, together with periodate oxidation, Smith degradation, SEM, FT‐IR, and NMR spectral analysis, it expressed that DOPS‐1 was largely composed of mannose, glucose and galacturonic acid in a molar ratio of 3.2 : 1.3 : 1. The molecular weight of DOPS‐1 was 1530 kDa and the main chain was composed of (1→4)‐β‐D‐Glcp, (1→4)‐β‐D‐Manp and 2‐O‐acetyl‐(1→4)‐β‐D‐Manp. The measurement results of antioxidant activity showed that DOPS‐1 had the strong scavenging activities on hydroxyl radicals, DPPH radicals and superoxide radicals and the high reducing ability in vitro. Moreover, DOPS‐1 was cytotoxic to all three human cancer cells of MDA‐MB‐231, A549 and HepG2.
The cloak of calcium: Coronary angiography is not to be trusted
Authors: Grines Cindy L. , Leimbach Mark E.
Published: March 2021

Key Points

Heavily calcified coronary arteries may mask lesions.

There is no correlation between angiographic determination of stenosis severity 40–80% and intracoronary measurements of fractional flow reserve and Pd/Pa in heavily calcified lesions.

It is essential to perform additional intracoronary hemodynamic measurements or invasive imaging to determine the significance of calcified coronary lesions.
FFRCT: Getting better all the time (but not there yet)
Authors: Seto Arnold H. , Kern Morton J.
Published: March 2021

Key Points

Post‐percutaneous corornary intervention (PCI) Fractional flow reserve (FFR) values remain suboptimal in many cases and these are associated with an adverse prognosis.

FFR derived from computed tomography (FFRCT) now includes a planner tool to predict post‐PCI values, which demonstrated significant if modest correlation with invasive post‐PCI values.

Further refinement is necessary to improve accuracy and reliability of this tool before it can be used with confidence.
Pd‐Catalyzed N‐Arylations of 3‐Aryl‐1‐tosyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5‐amines with Arylbromides and the Migration of Ts Group
Authors: He Jing , Yang Zhen , Li Weiwei , Wei Yueting , Dai Bin , Zhao Jixing , Liu Ping
Published: March 2021

An efficient palladium‐catalyzed N‐arylations of 3‐aryl‐1‐tosyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5‐amines with arylbromides is established. A series of diversified N‐arylated products are obtained in excellent yields with broad substrate scope. Importantly, the N‐arylated products undergo 1,4‐ and 1,6‐migration reactions of Ts group under the action of Cs2CO3, affording the N‐Ts‐substituted pyrroles as major products (1,6‐migration). Similar results can also be directly obtained by palladium‐catalyzed reactions of 3‐aryl‐1‐tosyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5‐amines with arylbromides in the presence of Cs2CO3 as a base. Mechanistic studies reveal that the Ts‐migration is achieved through an intermolecular pathway.
PROTOCOL: The use of information and communications technologies (ICT) for contributing to the prevention of, and response to, sexual and gender‐based violence against women and children in lower‐ and middle‐income countries: an evidence and gap map
Authors: Philbrick William C. , Milnor Jacob R. , Deshmukh Madhu , Mechael Patricia N.
Published: March 2021

This is the protocol for the development of a Campbell Collaboration evidence and gaps map (EGM). The primary objective of this evidence and gap map (EGM) is to answer the following question: (1) What is the evidence connected with the use of information and communications technologies (ICT) for preventing and responding to sexual and gender‐based violence (SGBV) against women and children in lower‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC)?

(a) the EGM will provide a structured and accessible contextual framework for research to stakeholders and policymakers in SGBV and ICT; (b) the EGM will identify gaps in the available ICT and SGBV evidence; (c) the EGM will identify clusters of evidence suitable for systematic review; and (d) the EGM will look for and build connections between related areas of research in ICT and SGBV.

As part of identifying the evidence connected with the use of ICT for preventing and responding to SGBV we seek to answer the following questions based upon the available evidence:

Does the use of ICT prevent SGBV against women and children in LMIC?

How effective is ICT at improving access to quality services for SGBV survivors in LMIC?

Does the use of ICT contribute to effectively achieving intermediate outcomes that lead to the prevention of SGBV against women and children, and/or improving access for SGBV survivors to response services in LMIC?

What are the enabling factors associated with the implementation of ICT and SGBV interventions?
Current pet ownership modifies the adverse association between long‐term ambient air pollution exposure and childhood asthma
Authors: Zeng Xiao‐Wen , Lodge Caroline J. , Lowe Adrian J. , Guo Yuming , Abramson Michael J. , Bowatte Gayan , Hu Li‐Wen , Yang Bo‐Yi , Chen Zan‐Xiong , Dharmage Shyamali C. , Dong Guang‐Hui
Published: March 2021

Background

Recent studies suggest that household endotoxin and allergens can modify the impact of air pollutants on development of asthma; however, epidemiological evidence is limited and conflicting.

Objectives

To investigate whether pet ownership modified the association between ambient air pollution and asthma in children.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based cross‐sectional study, the Seven Northeast Cities Study in China and recruited a total of 59,754 children from 94 schools during 2012–2013. Long‐term air pollutant concentrations, including airborne particulate matter with a diameter of 1 μm or less (PM1), PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from 2009 to 2012 were estimated using a random forest model. We collected information of respiratory health in children using the Epidemiologic Standardization Project Questionnaire of the American Thoracic Society (ATS‐DLD‐78‐A). Regression models were used to evaluate associations between pet ownership and air pollution on asthma after adjusting for potential covariates.

Results

Exposure to increasing levels of air pollutants was associated with higher prevalence of asthma, but associations were significantly attenuated in children who owned pets. For example, compared to children without pets, those who owned pets did not have an increased risk of symptoms of asthma (odds ratio, 1.01, 95% confidence interval: 0.78, 1.30), wheeze (0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76, 1.21), and cough (1.01, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.18) for each 10 µg/m3 increase in PM1 (P‐int < 0.05). Similar trends were observed for other air pollutants. Dog and bird ownership decreased the associations of asthma and cough with air pollutant exposure. The main findings were consistent with a series of sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Current pet ownership may reduce the adverse impact of long‐term air pollution on childhood asthma. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this finding which could have important implications for public health.
Guideline‐adherent treatment, sociodemographic disparities, and cause‐specific survival for endometrial carcinomas
Authors: Rodriguez Victoria E. , LeBrón Alana M. W. , Chang Jenny , Bristow Robert E.
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines have been adopted as the standard of care for various cancers and have been cited to have survival benefits. Few studies have examined the association of adherent treatment and endometrial cancer survival among various racial/ethnic groups and socioeconomic statuses.

METHODS

Between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2015, 83,673 women diagnosed with endometrial carcinomas were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Descriptive statistics of demographic and clinical characteristics were performed. Cox‐proportional hazards models were used to examine the effect on cause‐specific survival for adherence to guidelines across racial/ethnic and socioeconomic groups.

RESULTS

Within our sample, 59.5% were treated according to guidelines. Nonadherence to treatment guidelines was significantly associated with decreased survival compared with adherent care (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.59; 95% CI, 1.52‐1.67). Being of Black (adjusted HR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.32‐1.51) or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (adjusted HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.19‐1.73) race/ethnicity compared with White women was significantly associated with worse survival. Being of Asian race/ethnicity (adjusted HR, 0.86, 95% CI, 0.78‐0.94) was significantly associated with improved survival compared with White women. Lower neighborhood socioeconomic status was associated with a negative effect on survival relative to women in the highest socioeconomic status category.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings from this study suggest treatment adherence is an independent predictor of improved survival; however, improved survival was not observed equally among all racial/ethnic and socioeconomic status groups.

LAY SUMMARY

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has developed guidelines for physicians to follow in treating various cancers. Within this study of 83,673 women with endometrial cancer, 59.5% of women were treated according to the NCCN guidelines. The findings suggest following NCCN guidelines for treatment of endometrial cancer improves survival.

Black or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander race and lower neighborhood socioeconomic status has worse survival rates compared with other groups, indicating the importance of exploring other factors that may shape treatment across racial/ethnic and socioeconomic status groups.
Sodium Monododecylphosphate Vesicles Formed in Alcohol/Water Mixtures
Authors: Gao Meihua , Yao Zhiyin , Du Na , Deng Quanhua , Liu Lijing , Liu Jianqiang , Hou Wanguo
Published: March 2021

Sodium monododecylphosphate (SDP), a typical single‐chain amphiphile (SCA), exhibits extremely low solubility in water, which limits the investigation on its aggregation behavior. In the current work, we introduced short‐ and medium‐chain alcohols into the SDP‐water system to improve its solubility. An isotropic phase was found to be formed in the presence of alcohol with a suitable dielectric constant (11–25) or alkyl chain (2–7 carbons). In addition, vesicular, dendritic, and micellar structures were identified in the isotropic phase, depending on the composition of the SDP/alcohol/H2O ternary systems. The structure, stability, permeability, and formation mechanism of the vesicles formed in the SDP/n‐pentanol (NPT)/H2O system were investigated. The vesicles have a unilamellar structure, with size‐selective permeability. They show remarkable stability upon long‐term storage, exposure to high temperature, and freeze‐thawing cycles, but are metastable in thermodynamics. The hydrogen bonding between SDP molecules plays an important role in the formation of vesicles. Furthermore, the SDP/NPT/H2O vesicles were used to construct three spatially segregated enzyme‐loaded compartments to support a cascade enzyme reaction. The chemical signal transduction among the enzyme‐loaded vesicles was achieved. This study provides a deeper understanding of the features of SDP vesicles and demonstrates their potential applications such as in biomembrane mimicking and micro‐reactors.
ParaHydrogen Polarized Ethyl‐[1‐13C]pyruvate in Water, a Key Substrate for Fostering the PHIP‐SAH Approach to Metabolic Imaging
Authors: Carrera Carla , Cavallari Eleonora , Digilio Giuseppe , Bondar Oksana , Aime Silvio , Reineri Francesca
Published: March 2021

An efficient synthesis of vinyl‐[1‐13C]pyruvate has been reported, from which 13C hyperpolarized (HP) ethyl‐[1‐13C]pyruvate has been obtained by means of ParaHydrogen Induced Polarization (PHIP). Due to the intrinsic lability of pyruvate, which leads quickly to degradation of the reaction mixture even under mild reaction conditions, the vinyl‐ester has been synthesized through the intermediacy of a more stable ketal derivative. 13C and 1H hyperpolarizations of ethyl‐[1‐13C]pyruvate, hydrogenated using ParaHydrogen, have been compared to those observed on the more widely used allyl‐derivative. It has been demonstrated that the spin order transfer from ParaHydrogen protons to 13C, is more efficient on the ethyl than on the allyl‐esterdue to the larger J‐couplings involved. The main requirements needed for the biological application of this HP product have been met, i. e. an aqueous solution of the product at high concentration (40 mM) with a good 13C polarization level (4.8 %) has been obtained. The in vitro metabolic transformation of the HP ethyl‐[1‐13C]pyruvate, catalyzed by an esterase, has been observed. This substrate appears to be a good candidate for in vivo metabolic investigations using PHIP hyperpolarized probes.
Energy Storage Mechanism of Vanadium Nitride via Intercalating Different Atomic Radius for Expanding Interplanar Spacing
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Lingyang , Kang Long , Ran Fen
Published: March 2021

As a promising anode material in supercapacitors, vanadium nitride has been widely concerned due to its ultra‐high theoretical specific capacitance. However, its routine test capacitance value is still far from the theoretical value and its energy storage mechanism is controversial. In order to solve these two key problems, here we prepare interplanar spacing expanded vanadium nitride materials with different impurity atoms intercalation from two anionic precursors of vanadium‐based metal organic frameworks with different functional groups. The obtained vanadium nitride reaches a higher specific capacitance; and further, through ex situ X‐Ray diffraction and in situ Raman, the charge storage of vanadium nitride is contributed by two processes: the first benefit is from the K+ de/intercalation in the interplanar spacing, and the other one is derived from the redox reaction with OH− by adsorption on surface. Furthermore, both of the first principle calculation and extended experiments support this idea. We believe that such detailed research on the energy storage mechanism can provide a clear idea for the application of metal nitrides in supercapacitors and other energy storage devices.
New Chiral BINOL‐Based Phosphates for Enantioselective [Au(I)]‐Catalyzed Dearomatization of β‐Naphthols with Allenamides
Authors: Pedrazzani Riccardo , An Juzeng , Monari Magda , Bandini Marco
Published: March 2021

New chiral BINOL‐based phosphate counterions have been synthesized, fully characterized, and employed in the enantioselective gold‐catalyzed dearomatization of β‐naphthols with allenamides. A range of densely functionalized C1‐allylated naphthalenones were realized under mild conditions and high levels of chemo‐, regio‐ and stereoselectivity (ee up to 95 %).
Experimental fire testing of large‐scale glass fibre‐reinforced polymer‐reinforced concrete beams with mid‐span straight‐end bar lap splices
Authors: Nour Omar , Salem Osama (Sam) , Mostafa Ahmed
Published: March 2021

Adopting glass fibre‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebars as a replacement of conventional steel reinforcement in different infrastructure applications is mainly attributed to its corrosion resistance and considerable lightweight‐to‐high strength ratio. However, the use of FRP rebars in construction is still limited due to the degradation of its mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. The experimental work presented in this paper aimed to investigate the structural fire behaviour of concrete beams reinforced with GFRP bars having lap splices at the beam mid‐span. Four identical 2750‐mm long concrete beams with cross‐sectional dimensions of 300 mm × 350 mm were experimentally examined under four‐point flexure bending. A 60‐mm thick concrete cover was used on the bottom, front and back sides of all beams. Two beams were tested as control specimens in ambient condition, while the other two beams were exposed to standard fire while subjected to a transverse load equivalent to 40% of the beam ultimate design moment. Experimental results show that concrete beams sustained the applied loads for a minimum of 53 minutes in standard fire conditions. Also, both test beams failed due to slippage of the spliced bars when the temperature measured at the top of the middle bar approached its glass transition temperature.
Effects of different harvesting times and processing methods on the quality of cultivated Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don
Authors: Ma Bujin , Ma Jing , Li Bo , Tao Qian , Gan Jiaxia , Yan Zhuyun
Published: March 2021

Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don is the major source plants of traditional Chinese medicine Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus (FCB). Domestication, introduction, and cultivation is an important strategy to alleviate the shortage of endangered medicinal plants of F. cirrhosa. However, until now, the yield and quality changes of FCB in different harvest periods and drying treatments after harvest were not well understood. Therefore, in this paper, we investigated the yield and quality of cultivated F. cirrhosa at different harvest periods and postharvest processing methods. The results showed that dry weight per bulb ranged from 0.8913 to 1.4681 g and reached the highest at the wilting stage. The soluble sugar content ranged from 0.075% to 0.127% and reached the highest at the wilting stage. The content of total alkaloids ranged from 0.088% to 0.218% and reached the highest at the late‐flowering stage. The contents of peimisine, sipeimine, peimine, and peiminine were 0.01178%‐0.02615%, 0%–0.01713%, 0%–0.00745%, and 0%–0.00621% and reached the highest at the late‐flowering period, wilting period, young fruit period, and initial flowering period, respectively. For the two different postharvest processing methods, the contents of total alkaloids and the 16 main characteristic peaks did not exhibit significant differences. Still, the alkaloid contents of the oven drying after washing were slightly higher than the sun drying. In conclusion, the best harvest period is the wilting period of F. cirrhosa, and oven drying after washing is more beneficial to ensure the quality of FCB and improve productivity.
The Biden Administration's Approach to Addressing Climate Change
Authors: South David , Vangala Shreyas , Hung Kaylene
Published: March 2021

Addressing climate change has been a primary focus of President Joseph Biden. Beginning “Day One,” the administration made its intentions clear to deliver sweeping and comprehensive solutions to tackle climate change as a core tenant of its international and domestic policy agenda.
Hematological and Genetic Markers in the Rational Approach to Patients With HCV Sustained Virological Response With or Without Persisting Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis
Authors: Gragnani Laura , Lorini Serena , Marri Silvia , Basile Umberto , Santarlasci Veronica , Monti Monica , Madia Francesco , Petraccia Luisa , Stasi Cristina , Marello Niccolò , Napodano Cecilia , Annunziato Francesco , Zignego Anna Linda
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) usually lead to improvement/remission of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV), although symptoms may persist/recur after a sustained virological response (SVR). We evaluated hematological and genetic markers in patients with HCV‐SVR vasculitis with and without persisting/recurring symptoms to early predict the CV outcome.

Approach and Results

Ninety‐eight patients with HCV‐CV were prospectively enrolled after a DAA‐induced SVR: Group A: 52 with complete clinical response; Group B: 46 with symptom maintenance/recurrence. Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis, t(14;18) translocation, and abnormal free light chains κ/λ ratios were detected by flow cytometry or nested‐PCR or nephelometry in 4% Group A versus 17% Group B (P = 0.04) patients, 17% Group A versus 40% Group B patients (P = 0.02), and 17% Group A versus 47% Group B (P = 0.003) patients, respectively. At least 1 out of 3 clonality markers was altered/positive in 29% of Group A versus 70% of Group B patients (P < 0.0001). When available, pretherapy samples were also tested for t(14;18) translocation (detected in 12/37 [32%] Group A and 21/38 [55%] Group B) and κ/λ ratios (abnormal in 5/35 [14%] Group A and 20/38 [53%] Group B) (P = 0.0006), whereas at least one clonality marker was detected/altered in 16/37 (43%) Group A and 30/38 (79%) Group B (P = 0.002). CV‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were tested by real‐time PCR. Among them, notch4 rs2071286 T minor allele and TT genotype showed a higher frequency in Group B versus Group A (46% vs. 29%, P = 0.01, and 17% vs. 2%, P = 0.006, respectively).

Conclusions

Hematological or genetic analyses could be used to foresee the CV clinical response after DAA therapy and could be valuable to assess a rational flowchart to manage CV during follow‐up.
Patterns of Inpatient Opioid Use and Related Adverse Events Among Patients With Cirrhosis: A Propensity‐Matched Analysis
Authors: Rubin Jessica B. , Lai Jennifer C. , Shui Amy M. , Hohmann Samuel F. , Auerbach Andrew
Published: March 2021

Pain is common among patients with cirrhosis, yet managing pain in this population is challenging. Opioid analgesics are thought to be particularly high risk in patients with cirrhosis, and their use has been discouraged. We sought to understand patterns of opioid use among inpatients with cirrhosis and the risks of serious opioid‐related adverse events in this population. We used the Vizient Clinical Database/Resource Manager, which includes clinical and billing data from hospitalizations at more than 500 academic medical centers. We identified all nonsurgical patients with cirrhosis hospitalized in 2017‐2018 as well as a propensity score‐matched cohort of patients without cirrhosis. Inpatient prescription records defined patterns of inpatient opioid use. Conditional logistic regression compared rates of use and serious opioid‐related adverse events between patients with and without cirrhosis. Of 116,146 nonsurgical inpatients with cirrhosis, 62% received at least one dose of opioids and 34% had regular inpatient opioid use (more than half of hospital days), rates that were significantly higher than in patients without cirrhosis (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] for any use, 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13‐1.21; P < 0.001; AOR for regular use, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.11; P = 0.002). Compared with patients without cirrhosis, patients with cirrhosis more often received tramadol (P < 0.001) and less commonly received opioid/acetaminophen combinations (P < 0.001). Rates of serious opioid‐related adverse events were similar in patients with and without cirrhosis (1.6% vs. 1.9%; AOR, 0.96; P = 0.63). Conclusion: Over half of patients with cirrhosis have pain managed with opioids during hospitalization. Patterns of opioid use differ in patients with cirrhosis compared with patients without cirrhosis, although rates of serious adverse events are similar. Future studies should further explore the safety and efficacy of opioids in patients with cirrhosis, with the goal of improving pain management and quality of life in this population.