bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment Various Concentrations of ZnO-Nanoparticles on Micropropagation for Chenopodium quinoa Willd. Plant
Authors: Gethami Fayza Ruzayq Al , Sayed Hameda El Sayed Ahmed El
Published: September 2020

Assessment influences various concentrations of ZnO-Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on Chenopodium quinoa Willd. Micro-propagation by cotyledonary nodes explants was achieved. We used different concentrations of ZnO-NPs (0.2, 2, 10, 20 mg/l) and used the medium free from ZnO-NPs as control. The results indicated that the presence ZnO-NPs in medium was good effect on germination rate of quinoa seeds at 2 mg/l concentration, and we noticed a density in roots hair and number or length roots of seedling. In addition, the highest responding of explant to ZnO-NPs 93.33, 80.8% were in MS that supplemented 0.0, 2.0 mg/l respectively. Maximum numbers of roots 4.0 were also observed in MS containing 0.0, 2.0 mg/l. Although, there was positive clearly effect on number leaves of shoots, but there was a sudden decline (from 8.43 to 1.0) occurred by increasing ZnO-NPs concentrations from 2.0 to 20.0 mg/L. However, the ZnO-NPs do not effect on length of shoots, where the lengthiest shoot occurred in MS without ZnO-NPs. Regarding rooting shoots, there was significant effect of ZnO-NPs on both percentage of root and root number, where percentage of root reached to 100% in 10.0 mg/l concentration and roots number was 4.80 roots in the same concentration.
Synthesis, Molecular Modelling and Biological Evaluation of Novel Pyrimidine Derivatives as Anti-inflammatory Agents
Authors: Ahmed Naglaa Mohamed , Nofal Shahira , Awad Samir Mohamed
Published: September 2020

Aim: As part of ongoing studies in developing new anti-inflammatory agents, 2-thioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine derivative 1 was synthesized by direct Biginelli condensation and used for the synthesis of novel series of  pyrimidin-2-thione derivatives  (2a-d to 7a-b).

Materials and Methods: All compounds were examined for their anti-inflammatory activity using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema assay in comparison to ibuprofen, as a reference drug. Molecular docking studies were carried out using SYBLYL-X v.2.1 software.

Study Design: A series of pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized by a simple and available method leads to a molecule of promising anti-inflammatory activity, the docking studies show good agreement with anti-inflammatory results. Future researches are recommended to assure the importance of these new derivatives for various applications.

Place and Duration of Study: Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department and Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt, between February 2018 and March 2019.

Results: Compounds showed 61 to 86% anti-inflammatory activity where-as ibuprofen showed 69% activity. Compounds 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 7a, 7b induced strong anti-inflammatory activity, comparable with that of ibuprofen, they showed significantly difference at 4h post-carrageenan. Compound 3c (86%) showed the best result of edema inhibition in rats. Moreover, compounds 1, 2c and 3c were subjected to in vitro enzyme assay investigations against COX-1 and COX-2. All tested compounds showed higher potency towards COX-2 over COX-1. Compound 3c realized higher potency towards COX-2 (IC50= 0.046 μM) than compounds 1(IC50= 0.21 μM) and 2c (IC50=0.11 μM) as well as ibuprofen (IC50= 43.628 μM). Structure-activity relationship (SAR) has been discussed.

Conclusion: A series of pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized by a simple and available method gave a molecule of promising anti-inflammatory activity, the docking studies showed good agreement with anti-inflammatory results.
Monitoring the Presence of Bacteria, Fungi and Parasitic Pathogens Associated with Swimming Pools in Port Harcourt Metropolis
Authors: Onosakponome E. O. , Adedokun A. A. , Dick A. A.
Published: September 2020

Aims: Ideal water for swimming should meet the portable water standard by being transparent, odorless, and tasteless. However, these qualities can be affected by the presence of infectious agents which directly or indirectly contaminate pool water. This study aims at monitoring the microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and protozoa parasites) and pH associated with swimming pool water.

Study Design: A random sampling technique was adopted to select the five (5) swimming pools for the study based on accessibility and visitation.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Rivers State between March 2016 to August 2017.

Methodology: Five (5) outdoor swimming pools attached to hotels in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Port Harcourt Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria were randomly selected for the study. Water samples were aseptically collected in duplicates and analyzed for total heterotrophic bacterial count, total heterotrophic fungal count, protozoa and pH using appropriate techniques.

Results: The results show that swimming pools with sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate had a mean THBC range from 4x101 cfu/ml - 1.58x103 cfu/ml, mean THFC, 0 cfu/ml - 8x101 cfu/ml and mean pH, 5.9-6.4; for samples without sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate, the mean THBC ranged from 0 cfu/ml - 9.2x101 cfu/ml, mean THF, 0 cfu/ml - 8x101 cfu/ml and mean pH, 5.6-6-2. Protozoa (parasites) were absent in all water samples analyzed. The results further reveals that 95.9% and 100% of the swimming pools samples failed to the meet the <100 cfu/ml and 7.0 – 7.8 World Health Organisation Standards for THBC and pH respectively. The bacteria identified are Bacillus spp., Escherichia coli, Stapylococcus aureus while the fungi identified are Aspergillus spp., Rhizopus spp. and Penicillium spp.

Conclusion: The study finds the levels of THBC in the samples with sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate, the presence of Escherichia coli and the pH range a threat to health of bathers. Therefore, the owners should ensure routine decontamination and assessment of water quality.
PENGARUH FIRM SIZE TERHADAP LEVERAGE PADA PERUSAHAAN MANUFAKTUR PUBLIK INDONESIA PERIODE 2013-2017
Authors: Shanthana L. Sisca , Basana Sautma Ronni
Published: September 2020

Keberlangsungan perusahaan memerlukan sistem pendanaan yang memadai dan struktur pendanaan untuk dapat menjaga aktivitas. Perusahaan yang berhasil mengelola struktur modal yang dapat mengelola biaya yang dikeluarkan dengan mampu menghasilkan laba perusahaan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meneliti pengaruh firm size terhadap Leverage Perusahaan Manufaktur yang tercatat di Bursa Efek Indonesia periode 2013-2017. Sampel yang digunakan adalah 42 perusahaan manu­faktur publik pada periode 2013-2017. Metode analisis data dilakukan dengan menggunakan regresi data panel dengan fixed effect model. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan size dan profitabilitas memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap leverage perusahaan manufaktur yang tercatat di Bursa Efek Indonesia periode 2013-2017.Ukuran perusahaan,
The impact of gender, puberty, and pregnancy in patients with POLG disease
Authors: Hikmat Omar , Naess Karin , Engvall Martin , Klingenberg Claus , Rasmussen Magnhild , Tallaksen Chantal M. E. , Samsonsen Christian , Brodtkorb Eylert , Ostergaard Elsebet , de Coo Rene , Pias‐Peleteiro Leticia , Isohanni Pirjo , Uusimaa Johanna , Darin Niklas , Rahman Shamima , Bindoff Laurence A.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To study the impact of gender, puberty, and pregnancy on the expression of POLG disease, one of the most common mitochondrial diseases known.

Methods

Clinical, laboratory, and genetic data were collected retrospectively from 155 patients with genetically confirmed POLG disease recruited from seven European countries. We used the available data to study the impact of gender, puberty, and pregnancy on disease onset and deterioration.

Results

We found that disease onset early in life was common in both sexes but there was also a second peak in females around the time of puberty. Further, pregnancy had a negative impact with 10 of 14 women (71%) experiencing disease onset or deterioration during pregnancy.

Interpretation

Gender clearly influences the expression of POLG disease. While onset very early in life was common in both males and females, puberty in females appeared associated both with disease onset and increased disease activity. Further, both disease onset and deterioration, including seizure aggravation and status epilepticus, appeared to be associated with pregnancy. Thus, whereas disease activity appears maximal early in life with no subsequent peaks in males, both menarche and pregnancy appear associated with disease onset or worsening in females. This suggests that hormonal changes may be a modulating factor.
Impact Behavior of Additively Manufactured Stainless Steel Auxetic Structures at Elevated and Reduced Temperatures
Authors: Fíla Tomáš , Koudelka Petr , Falta Jan , Šleichrt Jan , Adorna Marcel , Zlámal Petr , Neuhäuserová Michaela , Mauko Anja , Valach Jaroslav , Jiroušek Ondřej
Published: September 2020

Metamaterials produced using additive manufacturing represent advanced structures with tunable properties and deformation characteristics. However, the manufacturing process, imperfections in geometry, properties of the base material as well as the ambient and operating conditions often result in complex multiparametric dependence of the mechanical response. As the lattice structures are metamaterials that can be tailored for energy absorption applications and impact protection, the investigation of the coupled thermomechanical response and ambient temperature‐dependent properties is particularly important. Herein, the 2D re‐entrant honeycomb auxetic lattice structures additively manufactured from powdered stainless steel are subjected to high strain rate uniaxial compression using split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) at two different strain rates and three different temperatures. An in‐house developed cooling and heating stages are used to control the temperature of the specimen subjected to high strain rate impact loading. Thermal imaging and high‐speed cameras are used to inspect the specimens during the impact. It is shown that the stress–strain response as well as the crushing behavior of the investigated lattice structures are strongly dependent on both initial temperature and strain rate.
Microstructural Characterization and Anti‐Oxidation Properties of Molybdenum Disilicide Coating on Niobium by Spent MoSi2‐Based Materials
Authors: Zhu Lu , Ren Xuanru , Kang Xueqin , Zhang Ping , Feng Peizhong , Wang Xiaohong
Published: September 2020

MoSi2 coatings are prepared using spent and commercial MoSi2 powders as raw materials to protect niobium (Nb) substrate by spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique, and the microstructure and oxidation resistance of the coatings at 1500 °C are investigated. Results showed that obvious pores are found in MoSi2 coating using commercial MoSi2 (MC coating) after SPS while MoSi2 coating using spent MoSi2 (MS coating) is dense with low porosity. (Mo,Nb)5Si3 diffusion layer is generated between MS coating and the substrate with no gap or cracks, showing excellent metallurgical bonding. After long‐term oxidation at elevated temperature, pores and exposed Mo5Si3 can be observed in the oxide scale of MC coating, while dense and complete oxide scale is obtained by MS coating. Lowest mass gain (2.78 mg cm−2) is acquired by MS coating after oxidation at 1500 °C for 40 h because SiO2 oxide scale is completely formed on the dense and bentonite‐containing coating, blocking the diffusion of oxygen at high temperature. Compared with MC coating, no further oxidation occurs inside the MS coating or substrate, exhibiting better high‐temperature oxidation resistance.
Flexible Active Matrix Addressed Displays Manufactured by Screen Printing
Authors: Andersson Ersman Peter , Lassnig Roman , Strandberg Jan , Dyreklev Peter
Published: September 2020

A flexible, electrochromic, active matrix addressed display (AMAD) is demonstrated. The monolithically integrated AMAD, which contains a 3 × 3 array of organic electrochromic smart pixels (OESPs), is manufactured on a plastic substrate solely using screen printing. Each OESP is based on the combination of one organic electrochromic display (OECD) and one organic electrochemical transistor (OECT), where both devices are screen printed into multilayered vertical architectures. The conduction state of the OECT enables control of the color state of its corresponding OECD, thereby circumventing cross‐talk effects in the resulting AMAD device. The manufacturing approach also involves electrical wires, which connect each OECD with its corresponding OECT and also serve as the addressing lines of the resulting AMAD device, that are formed by screen printing of an ink based on either silver or nanocopper.
Tailoring Mechanical Properties of Mg–Al–Zn–Sn–Mn Alloy by Multipass Equal Channel Angular Pressing
Authors: Zha Min , Wang Chun-Xue , Jin Zhong-Zheng , Jia Hai-Long , Xu Hong , Zhang Ping-Yu , Huang Yu , Ma Ping-Kui , Wang Hui-Yuan
Published: September 2020

Herein, the influence of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) routes, i.e., A and Bc, on the microstructure and texture evolution of a Mg–3.7Al–0.7Zn–0.8Sn–0.4Mn (wt%) alloy is investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). It is found that with increasing the number of ECAP passes, the area fraction of the dynamically precipitated secondary‐phase particles increases, whereas particle size becomes larger. After four and six passes of ECAP via route A, shear deformation induced by ECAP promotes the incline of c‐axes toward extrusion direction (ED). The optimum room temperature (RT) mechanical properties (yield strength of ≈225 MPa, ultimate tensile strength of ≈312 MPa, and elongation to fracture of ≈31.9%) are obtained after four passes of ECAP at 200 °C via route A. The improved strength results from fine dynamic recrystallization (DRX)/ed grains, nanoscale secondary‐phase particles, and basal texture. Herein, it is indicated that Mg–Al–Zn–Sn alloys have great potential as low‐cost high‐strength‐ductility wrought Mg alloys.
An experimentally validated heat and mass transfer model for wax deposition from flowing oil onto a cold surface
Authors: Mahir Luqman Hakim Ahmad , Lee Jieun , Fogler H. Scott , Larson Ronald G.
Published: September 2020

A transport model is proposed for wax deposition onto a cold finger from flowing wax‐containing oils. The model solves transient energy and mass balances simultaneously for a reversible first‐order kinetic rate for precipitation of pseudo‐single‐component wax, and the effects of yield stress using a critical solid wax concentration to withstand flow‐induced stress at the deposit‐fluid interface. The model can predict the time evolution of the deposit thickness, and the spatial and temporal evolution of temperature and wax concentration as validated using cold finger experiments. It was found that for high wax content oils, deposit thickness growth is dominated by heat transfer. For low wax content oils that are unable to gel, the thickness growth is slow and accompanied by occasional sloughing. Regardless of the mechanism controlling the growth, mass transfer cannot be neglected as wax diffusion into the deposit continues to take place after the deposit has stopped growing.
Potential exoskeleton uses for reducing low back muscular activity during farm tasks
Authors: Thamsuwan Ornwipa , Milosavljevic Stephan , Srinivasan Divya , Trask Catherine
Published: September 2020

Background

As the sustainability of the agricultural workforce has been threatened by the high prevalence of back pain, developing effective interventions to reduce its burden within farming will contribute to the long‐term health and productivity of workers. Passive back‐support exoskeletons are being explored as an intervention to reduce the physical demands on the back muscles, and consequently mitigate the risk of back pain, in many industrial sectors.

Methods

This study investigated whether exoskeleton use could reduce farmers' low back muscle load. Electromyography was used to evaluate exoskeleton use in field and laboratory settings. A total of 14 farmers (13 males and 1 female) with a mean age of 49 (SD = 12) years and 6 female nonfarmers (mean age 28, SD = 5 years) performed a standardized set of tasks that included symmetric and asymmetric lifting and sustained trunk flexion. Following the standardized tasks, 14 farmers also performed regular, real‐world, farm tasks with and without use of the exoskeleton at their farms.

Results

Exoskeleton use decreased back muscular load during farming activities up to 65%, 56%, and 48% in static, median, and peak muscle activity, respectively. This indicates potential benefits of exoskeleton use to help farmers work under less muscular load. Paradoxically, exoskeleton use during standardized tasks increased muscle activity for some participants.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential effects of using passive exoskeletons in agriculture through observational and experimental research, and is among the first that explores the potential for using exoskeletons during actual work tasks in farm settings.
Assembly‐Induced Strong Circularly Polarized Luminescence of Spirocyclic Chiral Silver(I) Clusters
Authors: Wu Han , He Xin , Yang Biao , Li Cui‐Cui , Zhao Liang
Published: September 2020

Spirocyclic Ag9 clusters, as a new form of intrinsically chiral metal clusters, were constructed through vertex‐sharing of two in‐situ‐generated heteroaryl diide‐centered metal rings. Such core‐peripheral type clusters exhibit versatile photoluminescent and chiroptical behavior under different aggregation conditions. In contrast to a ligand‐based fluorescence emission in a diluted solution of the clusters, a solvent polarity‐caused assembly gives rise to new cluster‐based phosphorous luminescence owing to radiative mode switching and aggregation‐induced emission. Assembly of cluster enantiomers leads to micrometer‐long helical nanofibers, whose handedness is determined by absolute configuration of individual spirocyclic clusters. Benefiting from exciton couplings of helical arrangements of chelating ligands at molecular and microscopic levels, the assembled film of cluster enantiomers exhibits circularly polarized luminescence with a high anisotropy factor (0.16).
Pentacyclic Nano‐Trefoil
Authors: Ju Huiyeong , Tsuruoka Yumiko , Hayano Miho , Lee Eunji , Park Ki‐Min , Ikeda Mari , Ishi‐i Jun‐ichi , Kuwahara Shunsuke , Habata Yoichi
Published: September 2020

Tetra‐armed cyclen (1) bearing two 4‐(4′‐pyridyl)benzyl and two 3,5‐difluorobenzyl groups and its Ag+ complexes were prepared and structurally characterized. The complexes formed between 1 and Ag+ undergoes a reversible structural transformation between a 2:2 dimeric complex and a 3:5 pentacyclic trefoil complex with changes in the Ag+/1 molar ratio. It was also revealed that the 3:5 trefoil complex could encapsulate benzene and [D6]benzene selectively in solid‐state. The benzene‐included structures are stabilized by C−H⋅⋅⋅F−C interactions between the benzene molecule and the ligand molecule.
A Simple Homoleptic Gallium(I) Olefin Complex: Mimicking Transition‐Metal Chemistry at a Main‐Group Metal?
Authors: Glootz Kim , Barthélemy Antoine , Krossing Ingo
Published: September 2020

The earth‐metal olefin complex [GaI(COD)2]+[Al(ORF)4]− (COD=1,5‐cyclooctadiene; RF=C(CF3)3) constitutes the first homoleptic olefin complex of any main‐group metal accessible as a bulk compound. It is straight forward to prepare in good yield and constitutes an olefin complex of a main‐group metal that—similar to many transition‐metals—may adopt the +1 and +3 oxidation states opening potential applications. Crystallographic‐, vibrational‐ and computational investigations give an insight to the atypical bonding between an olefin and a main‐group metal. They are compared to classical transition‐metal relatives.
Simultaner enantiospezifischer Nachweis mehrerer Verbindungen in Mischungen mittels NMR‐Spektroskopie
Authors: Kuhn Lars T. , Motiram‐Corral Kumar , Athersuch Toby J. , Parella Teodor , Pérez‐Trujillo Míriam
Published: September 2020

Das Konzept der Chiralität spielt in der Natur eine fundamentale Rolle, obwohl sowohl ihr analytischer Nachweis als auch ihre Quantifizierung nach wie vor oftmals an experimentelle Grenzen stoßen. Bis heute erfordert zum Beispiel die enantiospezifische Analyse chiraler Komponenten eines Stoffgemisches notwendigerweise die vorherige Trennung der einzelnen Komponenten. Der simultane bzw. gleichzeitige enantiospezifische Nachweis mehrerer chiraler Moleküle in einem Gemisch stellt eine veritable Herausforderung dar, deren erfolgreiche Realisierung zu einem besseren Verständnis der zugrundeliegenden biologischen Prozesse führen würde, z. B. durch die enantiospezifische Analyse mehrerer Metabolite in ihrer natürlichen Umgebung. Wir berichten in dieser Zuschrift über den ersten “in situ” durchgeführten enantiospezifischen Nachweis eines aus neununddreißig Komponenten bestehenden Stoffgemisches. Als Beweis für die Durchführbarkeit des Konzeptes wurden achtzehn essentielle Aminosäuren in physiologischen Konzentrationen gleichzeitig enantiospezifisch mittels NMR‐Spektroskopie in Anwesenheit eines chiralen Solvatisierungsmittels (CSA; chiral solvating agent) nachgewiesen. Diese Arbeit beschreibt damit einen ersten Schritt zur simultanen enantiospezifischen Mehrkomponenten‐Analyse komplexer Mischungen; eine Fähigkeit, die erhebliche Auswirkungen auf Forschungsfelder wie z. B. Stoffwechselstudien, metabolische Phänotypisierungen, chemisches Reaktionsmonitoring und viele andere Bereiche haben wird, in denen komplexe Gemische chiraler Moleküle eine effiziente Charakterisierung erfordern.
Unusual Magnetic Field Responsive Circularly Polarized Luminescence Probes with Highly Emissive Chiral Europium(III) Complexes
Authors: Zhang Junhui , Dai Lixiong , Webster Alexandra M. , Chan Wesley Ting Kwok , Mackenzie Lewis E. , Pal Robert , Cobb Steven L. , Law Ga‐Lai
Published: September 2020

Chirality is ubiquitous within biological systems where many of the roles and functions are still undetermined. Given this, there is a clear need to design and develop sensitive chiral optical probes that can function within a biological setting. Here we report the design and synthesis of magnetically responsive Circularly Polarized Luminescence (CPL) complexes displaying exceptional photophysical properties (quantum yield up to 31 % and |glum| up to 0.240) by introducing chiral substituents onto the macrocyclic scaffolds. Magnetic CPL responses are observed in these chiral EuIII complexes, promoting an exciting development to the field of magneto‐optics. The |glum| of the 5D0 → 7F1 transition increases by 20 % from 0.222 (0 T) to 0.266 (1.4 T) displaying a linear relationship between the Δglum and the magnetic field strength. These EuIII complexes with magnetic CPL responses, provides potential development to be used in CPL imaging applications due to improved sensitivity and resolution.
A General and Highly Selective Palladium‐Catalyzed Hydroamidation of 1,3‐Diynes
Authors: Liu Jiawang , Schneider Carolin , Yang Ji , Wei Zhihong , Jiao Haijun , Franke Robert , Jackstell Ralf , Beller Matthias
Published: September 2020

A chemo‐, regio‐, and stereoselective mono‐hydroamidation of (un)symmetrical 1,3‐diynes is described. Key for the success of this novel transformation is the utilization of an advanced palladium catalyst system with the specific ligand Neolephos. The synthetic value of this general approach to synthetically useful α‐alkynyl‐α, β‐unsaturated amides is showcased by diversification of several structurally complex molecules and marketed drugs. Control experiments and density‐functional theory (M06L‐SMD) computations also suggest the crucial role of the substrate in controlling the regioselectivity of unsymmetrical 1,3‐diynes.
Directional Bonding in Decaniobate Inorganic Frameworks
Authors: Martin Nicolas P. , Nyman May
Published: September 2020

Metal–oxo clusters offer an opportunity to assemble inorganic and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) by a controlled building‐block approach, which led to the revolutionary discoveries of zeolites and MOFs. Polyoxometalate clusters are soluble in water, but more challenging to link into frameworks; the inert oxo‐caps that provide solubility are resistant to replacement or further connectivity. We demonstrate how the unique directional bonding and varying basicity of the decaniobate ([Nb10]) oxo‐caps can be exploited to build 1D, 2D, and 3D inorganic frameworks. In nine structures, A+(A=Li, Na, K, Rb and Cs), AE2+(AE=Ca, Sr, Ba) and Mn2+demonstrate that the dimensionality of the obtained material is controlled by cation charge and size. Increased cation charge decreases selectivity for oxo‐site bonding, leading to higher dimensional linking. Larger cation radii also decreases bonding selectivity, yielding higher dimensional materials. Ion‐exchange studies of the A+‐Nb10family shows exclusive selectivity for Cs+over other alkalis, which is important for radioactive Cs removal and sequestration.
Simultaneous Enantiospecific Detection of Multiple Compounds in Mixtures using NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Kuhn Lars T. , Motiram‐Corral Kumar , Athersuch Toby J. , Parella Teodor , Pérez‐Trujillo Míriam
Published: September 2020

Chirality plays a fundamental role in nature, but its detection and quantification still face many limitations. To date, the enantiospecific analysis of mixtures necessarily requires prior separation of the individual components. The simultaneous enantiospecific detection of multiple chiral molecules in a mixture represents a major challenge, which would lead to a significantly better understanding of the underlying biological processes; for example, via enantiospecifically analysing metabolites in their native environment. Here, we report on the first in situ enantiospecific detection of a thirty‐nine‐component mixture. As a proof of concept, eighteen essential amino acids at physiological concentrations were simultaneously enantiospecifically detected using NMR spectroscopy and a chiral solvating agent. This work represents a first step towards the simultaneous multicomponent enantiospecific analysis of complex mixtures, a capability that will have substantial impact on metabolism studies, metabolic phenotyping, chemical reaction monitoring, and many other fields where complex mixtures containing chiral molecules require efficient characterisation.
Morphology, physical, and mechanical properties of potentially applicable coelectrospun polysulfone/chitosan‐polyvinylalcohol fibrous membranes in water purification
Authors: Rezaei Soulegani Sanaz , Sherafat Zahra , Rasouli Maryam
Published: September 2020

Polysulfone (PSU) is a widely used polymer in water purification membranes. However, its hydrophobicity hinders its practical application. Herein, the wettability of PSU has been improved by producing a coelectrospun fibrous composite membrane using a hydrophilic component, chitosan‐polyvinyl alcohol (CS‐PVA). First, different proportions of PVA and CS solutions were mixed and electrospun to prepare CS‐PVA blend fibers. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations revealed that CS‐PVA blend fibers with maximum CS content can be obtained in 30:70 CS:PVA weight ratio. The optimum CS‐PVA solution was subsequently used alongside PSU solution and were fed into two distinct syringes, which were then electrospun simultaneously at a constant voltage and distance of 15 kV and 15 cm, respectively. Different composite compositions of PSU/CS‐PVA were achieved using different feeding rates for each solution. Based on SEM images, the prepared composite fibers were beadless. The ultimate strength of the composite mats decreased by increasing the amount of CS‐PVA due to the significant difference in the fiber diameter of each component and the resulting stress concentration. However, the thermal stability of composite membranes remained almost the same as pure PSU fibers. Moreover, samples with higher CS‐PVA content showed better wettability and higher water flux.
Polyamide‐based membranes consisting of nanocomposite interlayers for high performance nanofiltration
Authors: Zhu Cheng‐Ye , Zhang Xi , Xu Zhi‐Kang
Published: September 2020

It is still a task to synthesize polyamide‐based membranes with selective layers down to 10–20 nm for high performance desalination. Herein, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were used as one‐dimensional (1D) nanorods and graphene oxides (GO) as two‐dimensional (2D) nanosheets, respectively, to construct nanocomposite interlayers for synthesizing polyamide layers thinner than 15 nm. The 2D nanosheets are homogeneously mixed with the 1D nanorods and effectively reduce the surface roughness of the nanocomposite interlayers with decreasing the mass ratio of CNC/GO. Polyamide layers with a thickness of 10–15 nm have been synthesized at an ultralow monomer concentration of 0.025 wt% on these CNC/GO nanocomposite interlayers. The polyamide‐based membranes exhibit extremely high water permeation (45.9 L/m2·h·bar) without losing their salt rejection ability. The nanofiltration performances of these polyamide‐based membranes are higher than most of the reported nanofiltration membranes in recent years.
Sodium Quasi‐Intercalation in Black P for Superior Sodium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hyun , Park Cheol‐Min
Published: September 2020

Herein, a Na quasi‐intercalation concept in black P is developed in order to achieve superior P‐based Na‐ion battery (NIB) anodes. Firstly, black P with a puckered layer structure is synthesized via a simple solid‐state reaction using commercially available red P. Additionally, an amorphous carbon modified black P nanocomposite (black P@C) is prepared to optimize its electrochemical Na reversibility. Furthermore, the Na reaction pathways of black P are demonstrated using various ex situ analytical tools. During sodiation/desodiation, black P undergoes the two‐step reactions of sequential quasi‐intercalation of NaP formation (at 0.25 V) and conversion of Na3P formation (at 0 V). Interestingly, black P@C shows poor cycling performance when using the conversion reaction, but it shows superior performance when using the quasi‐intercalation reaction between black P and NaP. Therefore, we anticipate that the Na quasi‐intercalation in black P@C will lead to high‐performance NIB anodes.
Model of the slow pyrolysis of lignin to predict the product yield and composition of the liquid phase
Authors: Farag Sherif , Attia Mai , Mohaddespour Ahmad
Published: September 2020

The organic phase obtained from the slow pyrolysis of lignin contains several highly functional chemical families. These make lignin‐based oil, which is suitable for producing several end products. The composition and quality of the liquid phase are crucial for identifying the downstream processes. They are affected by several factors, including the feedstock precipitation process, pyrolysis conditions, and the presence of an in situ or ex situ catalytic agent. In this regard, this work aims to predict the yield of the slow pyrolysis products from kraft lignin and the composition of the liquid phase under different conditions. A kinetic model based on a lumped approach is employed. A temperature range from ambient to 1100 K and a heating rate from 2 to 200 °C min−1 are applied. The results predicted from the study are compared under selected conditions against lab‐scale experimental data, which show the strong capabilities of the model employed. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Accuracy of faecal immunochemical testing in patients with symptomatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Khan A A , Klimovskij M , Harshen R
Published: September 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) for detecting colorectal cancer in symptomatic patients.

Methods

This was a prospective study of patients with bowel symptoms. Stool samples were collected during rectal examination. The HM-JACKarc assay (Kyowa Medex, Tokyo, Japan) was used to quantify faecal haemoglobin (Hb); positive results were those with at least 10 μg Hb/g faeces. Two-by-two tables and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were used to determine diagnostic accuracy; χ2 and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare other parameters.

Results

A total of 928 patients were included (M : F ratio 1 : 1·5; median age 72 (i.q.r. 64–80) years). The overall prevalence of colorectal cancer was 5·1 per cent. The FIT had sensitivity of 85·1 per cent, specificity of 83·5 per cent, positive predictive value of 22·6 per cent and negative predictive value of 99·0 per cent. ROC analysis of FIT for diagnosing colorectal cancer gave an area under the curve value of 0·89 (95 per cent c.i. 0·84 to 0·94). Significant bowel pathology was detected more frequently in FIT-positive patients (35·1 per cent versus 7·1 per cent in FIT-negative patients; P < 0·001). There were sex differences in FIT positivity (23·7 per cent in men versus 17·4 per cent in women; P = 0·019); the sensitivity of FIT for colorectal cancer in women was also low. False-negative FIT results were found mainly in women referred with iron-deficiency anaemia, who were found to have caecal cancer.

Conclusion

FIT effectively excluded colorectal cancer in symptomatic patients. Integration of FIT into the diagnostic pathway for colorectal cancer would direct resources appropriately to patients with a greater likelihood of having the disease.
Brain reactions to the use of sensorized hand prosthesis in amputees
Authors: Granata Giuseppe , Di Iorio Riccardo , Miraglia Francesca , Caulo Massimo , Iodice Francesco , Vecchio Fabrizio , Valle Giacomo , Strauss Ivo , D'anna Edoardo , Iberite Francesco , Lauretti Liverana , Fernandez Eduardo , Romanello Roberto , Petrini Francesco M. , Raspopovic Stanisa , Micera Silvestro , Rossini Paolo M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

We investigated for the first time the presence of chronic changes in the functional organization of sensorimotor brain areas induced by prolonged training with a bidirectional hand prosthesis.

Methods

A multimodal neurophysiological and neuroimaging evaluation of brain functional changes occurring during training in five consecutive amputees participating to experimental trials with robotic hands over a period of 10 years was carried out. In particular, modifications to the functional anatomy of sensorimotor brain areas under resting conditions were explored in order to check for eventual changes with respect to baseline.

Results

Full evidence is provided to demonstrate brain functional changes, and some of them in both the hemispheres and others restricted to the hemisphere contralateral to the amputation/prosthetic hand.

Conclusions

The study describes a unique experimental experience showing that brain reactions to the prolonged use of an artificial hand can be tracked for a tailored approach to a fully embedded artificial upper limb for future chronic uses in daily activities.
Sudden death in epilepsy: There is room for intracranial pressure
Authors: Dibué Maxine , Spoor Jochem K. H. , Dremmen Marjolein , von Saß Christiane Freiin , Hänggi Daniel , Steiger Hans‐Jakob , Ryvlin Philippe , Kamp Marcel A.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Sudden unexpected death in patients with epilepsy (SUDEP) remains a poorly understood entity, and it is unclear whether the same pathomechanisms underlie all sudden deaths occurring in patients with epilepsy. One aspect not included in current models of SUDEP is the role of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) which can be observed immediately upon seizure activity in neurosurgical practice.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the occurrence of edema in patients with epilepsy reported to have died of sudden death who underwent brain autopsy or postmortem brain imaging and discuss how increased ICP may contribute to clinical features of SUDEP.

Results

19 eligible studies comprising a total of 623 patients were identified. Edema—mostly mild or moderate—was reported in 17% of cases and 74% of studies. 1% (n = 6) of the overall cases were clearly identified as having Dravet syndrome or an SCN1A mutation. In these patients, edema was found in 4 (67%) of cases.

Conclusion

Edema is regularly found in patients with epilepsy classified to have died from SUDEP. We argue that seizures preceding SUDEP may in certain cases elicit acute edema which may represent an additional contributing factor in the cascade of events leading to sudden death of patients with epilepsy. Furthermore, we hypothesize that mild edema may especially progress to severe edema in patients with sodium channel mutations which may represent an important mechanism to investigate in the context of understanding the significantly elevated risk of SUDEP in patients with SCN1A mutations.
Effectiveness of blended instructional design based on active learning in a graphic engineering course
Authors: Olmedo‐Torre Noelia , Martínez María Martínez , Peña Marta
Published: September 2020

Encouraging the use of active‐learning methodologies, both inside and outside the classroom by means of planned activities, is a key factor in effective learning, as well as being essential for students to achieve the goals set for each subject by making them responsible for their own learning. In this longitudinal and quantitative study, we describe the different active learning activities, such as Flipped Classroom, Design Thinking, Visual Thinking, and Project‐Based Learning (PBL), undertaken from 2015 to 2018 in the compulsory subject Graphic Expression imparted during the first year from all the degree studies of the Escola d'Enginyeria de Barcelona Est from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya—UPC BarcelonaTech. The introduction of active‐learning teaching methodologies for the solving of problems with computer aided design throughout the course, with increasing complexity of exercise completion, has led to a significant improvement in academic results by students in this subject. The results show that the inclusion of these methodologies improves student learning, as seen through the group development of an engineering project presented on the conclusion of the course. PBL is the methodology that is most highly appreciated by students because it enables them to integrate all the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course and is also the activity in which they obtain the best marks.
Chemical Translational Biology‐Guided Molecular Diagnostics: The Front Line To Mediate the Current SARS‐CoV‐2 Pandemic
Authors: Dai Yifan
Published: September 2020

The spread of severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has disrupted our global society in unprecedented ways. The very front line in defense against this pandemic is molecular diagnosis, which is an exceptional representation of how chemical translational biology can benefit our lives. In this viewpoint, I emphasize the imperative demand for a simple and rapid point‐of‐care system in order to mediate the spread of COVID‐19. I further describe how the interdisciplinary combination of chemistry and biology advances biosensing systems, which potentially lead to integrated and automated point‐of‐care systems capable of relieving the current pandemic.
Primary spinal epidural non‐Hodgkin's diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: A case report
Authors: Pokhrel Nishan Babu , Prasad Rohit , Paudel Sushil , Kafle Dinesh , Pokharel Rohit Kumar
Published: September 2020

Rare disease like primary spinal epidural diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with back pain and rapid neurological deterioration in the lower extremities.
Giant coronary artery aneurysm in infantile Kawasaki disease: When to use cardiac computed tomography angiography
Authors: Kadakia Shreeja , Do‐Nguyen Chi Chi , Kilcoyne Maxwell F. , Stevens Randy M. , Lindholm Erika , Nanassy Autumn , Starc James , Mallon Mary G.
Published: September 2020

Transthoracic echocardiography is the imaging modality of choice for the detection of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) in Kawasaki disease. However, cardiac computed tomography angiography is useful in the diagnosis of distal CAAs.
Innovative Multipodal Ligands Derived from Tröger's Bases for the Sensitization of Lanthanide(III) Luminescence
Authors: Trupp Leandro , Bruttomesso Andrea C. , Vardé Mariana , Eliseeva Svetlana V. , Ramírez Javier A. , Petoud Stéphane , Barja Beatriz C.
Published: September 2020

Herein, the synthesis and characterization of the first family of multipodal ligands with a Tröger's base framework designed for the preparation of luminescent lanthanide(III) complexes are reported. Eight ligands were designed and synthesized using different strategies, including alkylation reactions, amide couplings, and Ugi multicomponent reactions. All the ligands bear carboxylate groups for the coordination of the lanthanide(III) ions, with the lanthanide(III)‐sensitizing units consisting of the Tröger's base framework itself or attached benzamides. Upon irradiation of the chromophoric ligands, green terbium(III) emission was efficiently generated, whereas europium(III) emission was negligible. The geometry and substitution pattern of the ligands allow control of the stoichiometry of the species formed and the TbIII luminescence sensitization efficiency, showing that para‐substitution patterns are more efficient than meta substitution for the formation of coordination compounds with lower TbIII/ligand ratio. We propose that the species formed are self‐assembled 2:2 or 2:4 metallosupramolecular structures.
Copper‐Catalyzed Addition of Grignard Reagents to in situ Generated Indole‐Derived Vinylogous Imines
Authors: Ge Luo , Zurro Mercedes , Harutyunyan Syuzanna R.
Published: September 2020

Chiral indole derivatives are ubiquitous motifs in pharmaceuticals and alkaloids. Herein, the first protocol for catalytic asymmetric conjugate addition of Grignard reagents to various sulfonyl indoles, offering a straightforward approach for the synthesis of chiral 3‐sec‐alkyl‐substituted indoles in high yields and enantiomeric ratios is presented. This methodology makes use of a chiral catalyst based on copper phosphoramidite complexes and in situ formation of vinylogous imine intermediates.
Prognostic value of brain natriuretic peptide vs history of heart failure hospitalization in a large real‐world population
Authors: Zile Michael R. , Desai Akshay S. , Agarwal Rahul , Bharmi Rupinder , Dalal Nirav , Adamson Philip B. , Maisel Alan S.
Published: September 2020

Background

In heart failure (HF) patients, both natriuretic peptides (NP) and previous HF hospitalization (pHFH) have been used to predict prognosis.

Hypothesis

In a large real‐world population, both NP levels and pHFH have independent and interdependent predictive value for clinical outcomes of HFH and all‐cause mortality.

Methods

Linked electronic health records and insurance claims data from Decision Resource Group were used to identify HF patients that had a BNP or NT‐proBNP result between January 2012 and December 2016. NT‐proBNP was converted into BNP equivalents by dividing by 4. Index event was defined as most recent NP on or after 1 January 2012. Patients with incomplete records or age < 18 years were excluded. During one‐year follow up, HFH and mortality rates stratified by index BNP levels and pHFH are reported.

Results

Of 64 355 patients (74 ± 12 years old, 49% female) with available values, median BNP was 259 [IQR 101‐642] pg/ml. The risk of both HFH and mortality was higher with increasing BNP levels. At each level of BNP, mortality was only slightly higher in patients with pHFH vs those without pHFH (RR 1.2 [95%CI 1.2,1.3], P < .001); however, at each BNP, HFH was markedly increased in patients with pHFH vs those without pHFH (RR 2.0 [95%CI 1.9,2.1], P < .001).

Conclusion

In this large real‐world heart failure population, higher BNP levels were associated with increased risk for both HFH and mortality. At any given level of BNP, pHFH added greater prognostic value for prediction of future HFH than for mortality.
Judicious data management for sustaining an energy harvesting sensor node
Authors: Singh Kaumudi , Shukla Pratyush , S. M. Sachin , Gnani Nithish K. , T. V. Prabhakar , Kuri Joy
Published: September 2020

Perpetual lifetimes and low maintenance are few of the attractive aspects of sensor nodes that harvest ambient energy. However, their operation depends heavily on the energy profiles of their harvesting source(s). In this work, we study the suitability of energy harvesting sensor (EHS) Nodes, powered using indoor lighting and vibrations, for a simple temperature monitoring application. To help these nodes sustain, we have proposed schemes that allow the nodes to sample and transmit data judiciously. Along with an adaptive sampling based on autoregressive (AR) model, we have proposed a regulating function based transmission scheme that regulates the amount of transmitted data based on the energy available at the node and the characteristics of the data so that even with limited transmissions the fidelity of the data is not lost. With the help of thorough evaluations, we can conclude that an EHS node fares quite well. Results show that adaptive sampling and transmissions based on regulating function not only save energy at the sensor nodes, but they also reduce the amount of data generated and accumulated in a network.
Static Detection of File Access Control Vulnerabilities on Windows System
Authors: Lu Jiadong , Gu Fangming , Wang Yiqi , Chen Jiahui , Peng Zhiniang , Wen Sheng
Published: September 2020

Traditional applications have been developed for decades. Most of the security research around them have focused on the detection of memory corruption vulnerabilities, such as buffer overflow, double fetch, and integer overflow. On the contrary, logic bugs, a kind of flaws caused by unreasonable application logic, attract much less attention.

Files are the most common media for programs to persist their data in the system. As the file owners, programs are responsible for protecting their files from malicious users' tampering by leveraging access control mechanisms. However, if a program configures their access control mechanisms in wrong ways and causes evil users to bypass security checks to access files, there exists a file access control vulnerability. As a branch of logic flaws, file access control vulnerabilities are less popular with researchers. Thus, to mitigate the harm of the file access control vulnerabilities on Windows system, our team conducted first‐step research on them. We first classified file access control bugs into two types and codified some bug patterns. Then we formalized file access control vulnerabilities to propose a scalable detection method and implemented a lightweight analysis system StaticFAC. After evaluating StaticFAC in real‐world Windows software, we discovered 15 0‐day bugs.