bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulating Nonlinear Optical Response via Domain Control in Nanocrystal‐in‐Glass Composites
Authors: Feng Xu , Lun Yipeng , Jiang Xiaofang , Qiu Jianrong , Yu Huakang , Zhou Shifeng
Published: March 2021

Nanocrystal‐in‐glass (NIG) is an exciting class of composites, because it can not only combine the advantages of crystal and glass materials but also potentially generate new physical phenomenon in a cooperative manner. Herein, the nonlinear light–matter interaction processes in a broad range of NIG composites homogeneously embedded with LiNbO3 are investigated. It is shown that, by rational control of the organization manner of crystal and glass phases, second‐harmonic generation (SHG) can be precisely tuned. Importantly, an unusual SHG phenomenon, transverse SHG (TSHG), can be realized in the special region of the microstructure map combined with the features of high loading, nanoscale size, and homogenous distribution of nanocrystals. Furthermore, NIG composites exhibit broadband optical response, allowing TSHG in a wide waveband region to be achieved. Based on the above effects, the applications of the constructed NIG composite for precise measurement of the group velocity and duration of ultrashort optical pulses with femtosecond time scales are demonstrated. Indeed, the findings outline a fundamental principle to design NIG configurations for creating new properties, providing new directions for expanding the scope of NIG functional materials.
Multifunctional Reactive Nanocomposites via Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Arlington Shane Q. , Barron Sara C. , DeLisio Jeffery B. , Rodriguez Juan C. , Vummidi Lakshman Shashank , Weihs Timothy P. , Fritz Gregory M.
Published: March 2021

3D printing of reactive materials has, to date, primarily focused on controlling reaction velocities and energy release rates by printing novel architectures, which during reaction typically form gaseous and oxide powder products. The utility of printed reactive materials can be increased by designing the material such that its reaction produces both a controlled energy release and a functional product phase without gaseous products. Here, we report the direct ink writing of reactive materials composed of ternary nanocomposite powders that exhibit gasless, exceptionally low velocity reactions. The printed features can be patterned in arbitrary form factors and are brittle and electrically insulating as‐printed. Using a self‐propagating synthesis reaction, these features can be transformed into a mechanically robust, electrically conductive cermet that is capable of handling high currents. This study provides a new paradigm for printing multifunctional reactive materials in which both the energy release of the reaction, as well as the reaction products themselves, are useful for potential applications ranging from printed electronic devices to controlled, directed energy release.
Optical Chirality Detection Using a Topological Insulator Transistor
Authors: Huang Shouyuan , Xu Xianfan
Published: March 2021

Optical chirality is an effective means in screening molecules and their enantiomers in bioengineering, and recently has garnered attention as an implementation of qubits in quantum information processing. The conventional detection of circularly polarized light (CPL) is based on phase retardation and polarization separation using multiple optical components. An intrinsic solid‐state chirality detection device would be favorable for easier integration and implementation. Optical spin injection to the spin‐momentum‐locked topological surface states of topological insulators (TIs) by circularly polarized light leads to a directional DC photocurrent and hence possible circular polarization detection. However, this DC photocurrent is also accompanied by other photo‐responses. Here, a photodetection strategy using a TI transistor which senses CPL without the use of any additional components is demonstrated, it achieves a uniform response over the entire device with a sensitivity ≈5.6%. The Stokes parameters can also be extracted by arithmetic operation of photocurrents obtained with different bias and gate for a complete characterization of a polarized light beam. Therefore, this method enables chirality detection and Stokes parameter analysis using a single device. The proposed miniaturized intrinsic chirality detectors facilitate polarimetry sensing in applications from circular dichroism spectroscopy to biomedical diagnosis.
Targeted Drug Delivery for Sustainable Crop Protection: Transport and Stability of Polymeric Nanocarriers in Plants
Authors: Beckers Sebastian J. , Staal Alexander H. J. , Rosenauer Christine , Srinivas Mangala , Landfester Katharina , Wurm Frederik R.
Published: March 2021

Spraying of agrochemicals (pesticides, fertilizers) causes environmental pollution on a million‐ton scale. A sustainable alternative is target‐specific, on‐demand drug delivery by polymeric nanocarriers. Trunk injections of aqueous nanocarrier dispersions can overcome the biological size barriers of roots and leaves and allow distributing the nanocarriers through the plant. To date, the fate of polymeric nanocarriers inside a plant is widely unknown. Here, the in planta conditions in grapevine plants are simulated and the colloidal stability of a systematic series of nanocarriers composed of polystyrene (well‐defined model) and biodegradable lignin and polylactic‐co‐glycolic acid by a combination of different techniques is studied. Despite the adsorption of carbohydrates and other biomolecules onto the nanocarriers’ surface, they remain colloidally stable after incubation in biological fluids (wood sap), suggesting a potential transport via the xylem. The transport is tracked by fluorine‐ and ruthenium‐labeled nanocarriers inside of grapevines by 19F‐magnetic resonance imaging or induced coupled plasma – optical emission spectroscopy. Both methods show that the nanocarriers are transported inside of the plant and proved to be powerful tools to localize nanomaterials in plants. This study provides essential information to design nanocarriers for agrochemical delivery in plants to sustainable crop protection.
Silk Materials Light Up the Green Society
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Tao Tiger H. , Zhang Yujia
Published: March 2021

The revolutionary and pioneering advancements of silk materials in recent years have provided numerous opportunities for the great trend of sustainable green energy. Working as an eco‐friendly replacement for conventional energy harvester or storage device, silk‐based energy sources that get intensive attention are regarded as new solutions in flexible human‐integrated applications. Compared with other synthetic polymers, silk materials present outstanding biocompatibility, biodegradability, and many other attractive properties owing to the natural protein composition, various modification methods, large‐scale green production, and superior fabrication techniques. Herein, recent progress and ongoing challenges posed by the utilization and translation of silk materials in green energy application are discussed.
Micromixing in a gas–liquid vortex reactor
Authors: Ouyang Yi , Manzano Manuel Nunez , Beirnaert Koenraad , Heynderickx Geraldine J. , Van Geem Kevin M.
Published: March 2021

The gas–liquid vortex reactor (GLVR) has substantial process intensification potential for multiphase processes. Essential in this respect is the micromixing efficiency, which is of great importance in fast reaction systems such as crystallization, polymerization, and synthesis of nanomaterials. By creating a vortex flow and taking advantage of the centrifugal force field, the liquid micromixing process can be intensified in the GLVR. Results show that introducing a liquid into a gas‐only vortex unit results in suppression of primary and secondary gas flow. The Villermaux–Dushman protocol is applied to study the effects of the gas flow rate, liquid flow rate, and liquid viscosity based on a segregation index. Based on the incorporation model and reaction kinetics, the micromixing time of the GLVR is determined to be in the range of 10−4 ~ 10−3 s, which is comparable to the highly efficient rotating packed bed and substantially better than a static mixer.
First prenatal case of Noonan syndrome with SOS2 mutation: Implications of early diagnosis for genetic counseling
Authors: Gentile Mattia , Fanelli Tiziana , Lepri Francesca Romana , Gentile Angela , Orsini Paola , Volpe Paolo , Novelli Antonio , Ficarella Romina
Published: March 2021

RASopathies are a group of syndromes with partially overlapping clinical features caused by germline mutations of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway genes. The most common disorder is Noonan syndrome (NS; MIM 163950). We report the first prenatal case of NS with SOS2 (NM_006939.4) mutation in a euploid fetus with a severe increase in nuchal translucency (NT > 12 mm). Trio‐based custom next‐generation sequencing detected a de novo heterozygous missense mutation in the SOS2 gene: c.800 T > A (p.Met267Lys). Owing to the marked variable expressivity of NS and the scarcity of SOS2 mutation‐related NS cases reported in the literature, it is difficult to provide appropriate genetic counseling. Several issues such as the best management technique and optimal NT cutoff have been discussed. In addition, in general, the fine balance between the advantages of an early prenatal diagnosis and the challenge of determining if the detected gene variant is pathogenic and, primarily, the stress of the counselees when providing a genetic counseling with limited information on the prenatal phenotype have been discussed. A prenatal path comprising examinations and multidisciplinary counseling is essential to support couples in a shared decision‐making process.
Engineered Protein Nanocages for Targeted and Enhanced Dermal Melanocyte Cellular Uptake
Authors: Bhaskar Sathyamoorthy , Thng Steven , Lim Sierin
Published: March 2021

Hyperpigmentation is a major cosmetic concern that results from the overproduction of melanin from melanocyte cells in the skin. Current formulations of therapeutic drugs and active molecules that are intended to be delivered to the melanocytes are not targeted, leading to inefficient delivery and undesirable side effects. There is a compelling need for delivery vehicles that target melanocytes to effectively regulate melanin production. Self‐assembling protein nanocages (PNCs) have been shown to offer safe and efficient delivery of active molecules. They are versatile protein nanoparticle platforms that can be engineered to display functional ligands to impart specific biological functions. In this work, E2 PNCs are engineered to display alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (AlphaMSH) peptides as ligands for targeting and enhancing uptake by melanocytes. At 500 pM, the AlphaMSH‐modified E2 PNCs show 4‐fold increase in melanocyte cell uptake compared to bare E2 PNCs in 2 hours. This increase was less pronounced in keratinocytes. Competitive inhibition assay proves that the MC1R melanocyte cell surface receptor facilitates the uptake of E2 PNCs by mediating interaction with the displayed AlphaMSH peptides. PNCs can thus be used as targeted delivery vehicles of drugs and active molecules to melanocytes for the management of hyperpigmentation.
Acceleration of Reverse Intersystem Crossing using Different Types of Charge Transfer States
Authors: Wada Yoshimasa , Nakagawa Hiromichi , Kaji Hironori
Published: March 2021

There is a need to boost the rate constant of reverse intersystem crossing (kRISC) in thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials for applications to organic light‐emitting diodes. Recently, energy level matching of the locally excited state (LE) and charge transfer state (CT) has been reported to enhance kRISC. In this study, we conceptually demonstrate that kRISC can be improved even between CT states without LE states, through the use of different types of CT states. On the basis of this concept, we design a new compound, named DMAC‐bPmT, where two phenyl groups of a well‐known TADF material DMAC‐TRZ are substituted by pyrimidine groups. Theoretical calculations indicated that the energy levels of the different CT states of DMAC‐bPmT are very close and enhanced spin orbit coupling may be expected between them. As predicted, DMAC‐bPmT experimentally exhibited a kRISC three times as high as that of DMAC‐TRZ.
Bio‐inspired Underwater Super‐Oil‐Wettability for Controlling Platelet Adhesion
Authors: Parbat Dibyangana , Bhunia Bibhas K. , Mandal Biman B. , Manna Uttam
Published: March 2021

Control promotion and prevention of platelet adhesion are important for various biomedical applications. In the past, surface topography and chemical modifications have been commonly utilized for tailoring the promotion and prevention of platelet adhesion. Recently, lotus‐leaf‐inspired superhydrophobicity has appeared as an efficient avenue to prevent platelet adhesion. However, such extreme water repellent interfaces fail to perform upon prolonged and continuous exposure to aqueous phase. In this communication, the strategic use of a catalyst‐free 1,4‐conjugate addition reaction between amine and acrylate allowed us to investigate the impact of two distinct underwater oil‐wettability on platelet adhesion activity. While underwater superoleophobicity inhibited platelet‐adhesion, a highly aggregated fibrous network of adhered platelets was observed on underwater superoleophilic coating. Further, this biocompatible and haemocompatible underwater superoleophobic multilayer coating was deposited on a commercially available catheter tube to examine its potential towards the prevention of platelet attachment.
Functional Material Systems Based on Soft Cages
Authors: Liu Chao , Zhang Yihe , An Qi
Published: March 2021

Discrete molecular soft cages integrate multiple functionalities in one molecule. They express their functions from the confined space in their cavity, functional groups in the cavity interior wall and exterior wall, and the chelating nodes in many chelating cages. Such functional integrity render cage molecules special applications in material engineering. Increasing applications of cage molecules in material design have been reported in recent years. Compared with other cavity‐rich molecular structures such as metal‐organic framework (MOF) or covalent organic frameworks (COF), discrete soft cages present the unique advantage of material design flexibility, that they can easily composite with nanoparticles or polymers and exist in materials of various forms. We document the development of cage‐based materials in recent years and expect to further inspire materials engineering to integrate contribution from the functionality specificity of cage molecules and ultimately promote the development of functional materials and thus human life qualities.
Predictors of adaptive functioning in preschool aged children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Hodge Marie Antoinette , Boulton Kelsie A. , Sutherland Rebecca , Barnett Diana , Bennett Beverley , Chan Esther , Cramsie Jane , Drevensek Suzi , Eapen Valsamma , Ganesalingam Kalaichelvi , Masi Anne , Ong Natalie , Williamsz Marcia , Guastella Adam J. , Silove Natalie
Published: March 2021

Difficulties in adaptive functioning are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and contribute to negative outcomes across the lifespan. Research indicates that cognitive ability is related to degree of adaptive functioning impairments, particularly in young children with ASD. However, the extent to which other factors, such as socioeconomic status (SES) and ASD symptom severity, predict impairments in adaptive functioning remains unclear. The goal of this study was to determine the extent to which SES, ASD symptom severity, and cognitive ability contribute to variability in domain‐specific and global components of adaptive functioning in preschool‐aged children with ASD. Participants were 99 preschool‐aged children (2–6 years) with ASD who attended a tertiary diagnostic service. Results demonstrate that cognitive ability accounted for a significant proportion of variance in domain‐specific and global components of adaptive functioning, with higher cognitive ability predicting better adaptive functioning. Results also demonstrate that SES accounted for some variability in domain‐specific communication skills and global adaptive functioning when compared to basic demographic factors alone (age and gender). By contrast, ASD symptom severity did not predict variability in domain‐specific or global components of adaptive functioning. These findings provide support for a relationship between cognitive ability and adaptive functioning in preschool‐aged children with ASD and help to explain specific contributions of verbal and nonverbal ability to adaptive functioning; from this, we can better understand which children are likely to show the greatest degree of impairments across components of adaptive functioning early in development.

Lay Summary

People with autism often have difficulties with everyday communication, daily living, and social skills, which are also called adaptive functioning skills. This study investigated factors that might be related to these difficulties in preschoolers with autism. We found that better cognitive ability, but not autism symptoms, were associated with better adaptive functioning. This suggests that interventions for young children with autism should take into account cognitive ability to better understand which children are likely to have difficulties with adaptive functioning.
PLXNA2 and LRRC40 as candidate genes in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Pijuan Jordi , Ortigoza‐Escobar Juan Darío , Ortiz Juan , Alcalá Adrián , Calvo María José , Cubells Mariona , Hernando‐Davalillo Cristina , Palau Francesc , Hoenicka Janet
Published: March 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability with high heritability yet the genetic etiology remains elusive. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate new genotype–phenotype relationships for ASD to improve both the etiological knowledge and diagnosis. In this work, a copy‐number variant and whole‐exome sequencing analysis were performed in an ASD patient with a complex neurobehavioral phenotype with epilepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. We identified rare recessive single nucleotide variants in the two genes, PLXNA2 encoding Plexin A2 that participates in neurodevelopment, and LRRC40, which encodes Leucine‐rich repeat containing protein 40, a protein of unknown function. PLXNA2 showed the heterozygous missense variants c.614G>A (p.Arg205Gln) and c.4904G>A (p.Arg1635Gln) while LRRC40 presented the homozygous missense variant c.1461G>T (p.Leu487Phe). In silico analysis predicted that these variants could be pathogenic. We studied PLXNA2 and LRRC40 mRNA and proteins in fibroblasts from the patient and controls. We observed a significant PlxnA2 subcellular delocalization and very low levels of LRRC40 in the patient. Moreover, we found a novel interaction between PlxnA2 and LRRC40 suggesting that participate in a common neural pathway. This interaction was significant decreased in the patient's fibroblasts. In conclusion, our results identified PLXNA2 and LRRC40 genes as candidates in ASD providing novel clues for the pathogenesis. Further attention to these genes is warranted in genetic studies of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly ASD.

Lay Summary

Genomics is improving the knowledge and diagnosis of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) yet the genetic etiology remains elusive. Here, using genomic analysis together with experimental functional studies, we identified in an ASD complex patient the PLXNA2 and LRRC40 recessive genes as ASD candidates. Furthermore, we found that the proteins of these genes interact in a common neural network. Therefore, more attention to these genes is warranted in genetic studies of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly ASD.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons residues and the carcinogenic risk assessment to pregnant women in Nantong, China using QuEChERS method and HPLC—A pilot case study
Authors: Guo Xinying , Shi Yukun , Gu Jun , Chen Feng , Xu Haiyan , He Zhimin , Yang Qinghua
Published: March 2021

A high‐performance liquid chromatographic method with a modified QuEChERS extraction for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in blood serum was developed to investigate the internal exposure level and the carcinogentic toxicity contribution rate of PAHs for pregnant women in Nantong, China. Venous blood (n = 48) was collected in the local hospital and the internal exposure level of 16 PAHs and the contribution rate of carcinogenicity to pregnant women were analyzed. Among all of the detected PAHs, the detection rate of pyrene (77.08%) was the highest, followed by naphthalene (64.58%) and benzo[a]anthracene (BaA, 45.83%). The carcinogenicity contribution rate of BaA (37.37%) was the highest, followed by fluorene (32.96%) and acenaphthylene (22.01%). The results showed that many kinds of carcinogenic PAHs can be detected in the serum of pregnant women in Nantong city, among which BaA should be paid most attention because of its high internal exposure level and carcinogenic risk. Meanwhile, the origins of general PAHs in serum samples were analyzed using the characteristic ratio analysis method. The PAH pollution level of air samples (n = 42) during the collection time of blood samples was also analyzed to compare the possible correlations between the two different results.
Primary care and pulmonary physicians’ knowledge and practice concerning screening for lung cancer in Lebanon, a middle‐income country
Authors: Bou Akl Imad , K. Zgheib Nathalie , Matar Maroun , Mukherji Deborah , Bardus Marco , Nasr Rihab
Published: March 2021

Background

Screening for lung cancer with low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT) was shown to reduce lung cancer incidence and overall mortality, and it has been recently included in international guidelines. Despite the rising burden of lung cancer in low and middle‐income countries (LMICs) such as Lebanon, little is known about what primary care physicians or pulmonologists know and think about LDCT as a screening procedure for lung cancer, and if they recommend it.

Objectives

Evaluate the knowledge about LDCT and implementation of international guidelines for lung cancer screening among Lebanese primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonary specialists.

Methodology

PCPs and PUs based in Lebanon were surveyed concerning knowledge and practices related to lung cancer screening by self‐administered paper questionnaires.

Results

73.8% of PCPs and 60.7% of pulmonary specialists recognized LDCT as an effective tool for lung cancer screening, with 63.6% of PCPs and 71% of pulmonary specialists having used it for screening. However, only 23.4% of PCPs and 14.5% of pulmonary specialists recognized the eligibility criteria for screening. Chest X‐ray was recognized as ineffective by only 55.8% of PCPs and 40.7% of pulmonary specialists; indeed, 30.2% of PCPs and 46% of pulmonary specialists continue using it for screening. The majority have initiated a discussion about the risks and benefits of lung cancer screening.

Conclusion

PCPs and pulmonary specialists are initiating discussions and ordering LDCT for lung cancer screening. However, a significant proportion of both specialties are still using a non‐recommended screening tool (chest x‐ray); only few PCPs and pulmonary specialists recognized the population at risk for which screening is recommended. Targeted provider education is needed to close the knowledge gap and promote proper implementation of guidelines for lung cancer screening.
Identification of an individualized RNA binding protein‐based prognostic signature for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Xie Yongzhi , Luo Ximei , He Haiqing , Pan Tao , He Yizi
Published: March 2021

RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are increasingly appreciated as being essential for normal hematopoiesis and have a critical role in the progression of hematological malignancies. However, their functional consequences and clinical significance in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) remain unknown. Here, we conducted a systematic analysis to identify RBP‐related genes affecting DLBCL prognosis based on the Gene Expression Omnibus database. By univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression (CPHR) methods, six RBPs‐related genes (CMSS1, MAEL, THOC5, PSIP1, SNIP1, and ZCCHC7) were identified closely related to the overall survival (OS) of DLBCL patients. The RBPs signature could efficiently distinguished low‐risk from high‐risk patients and could serve as an independent and reliable factor for predicting OS. Moreover, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis revealed 17 significantly enriched pathways between high‐ versus low‐risk group, including the regulation of autophagy, chronic myeloid leukemia, NOTCH signaling pathway, and B cell receptor signaling pathway. Then we developed an RBP‐based nomogram combining other clinical risk factors. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated high prognostic predictive efficiency of this model with the area under the curve values were 0.820 and 0.780, respectively, in the primary set and entire set. In summary, our RBP‐based model could be a novel prognostic predictor and had the potential for developing treatment targets for DLBCL.
In‐stent repeated thrombosis secondary to coronary artery aneurysms percutaneous coronary intervention in Behchet’s Disease: A Case report
Authors: Gong Minglian , Mao Yi , Liu Jinghua
Published: March 2021

Coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) is a rare and poor prognostic manifestation of Behcet’s disease （BD）. Percutaneous treatment approaches frequently failed to ameliorate acute coronary system (ACS). Long‐term follow‐up is recommended as the prognosis of coronary involvement and the risk of further disease progression with percutaneous intervention in BD are unknown. long‐term anticoagulant and antiaggregant therapies should be considered to prevent further thrombosis and/or embolism.
Diagnostic challenge of a cystic solid pseudopapillary tumor in pancreas: A case report
Authors: Makhoul Ebrahim , Alabbas Zeina , Adra Ali , Youssef Alexey , Ayoub Emad , Issa Rana
Published: March 2021

A solid pseudopapillary tumor should be included in the differential diagnosis of every pancreatic cystic lesion. A constellation of microscopic morphology and immunohistochemistry, in addition to the clinical history, aids in reaching the correct diagnosis.
An experimental and numerical investigation of the three‐phase flow in the washing chamber of an entrained flow gasifier
Authors: Pan Hui , Wu Xuan , Liu Peng , Wei Nan , Bo Yuxuan
Published: March 2021

This study established a cold experimental platform and a mathematical model to examine the gas–liquid–solid three‐phase flow in the washing process of the gas–solid flow as it passes through a liquid pool in an entrained flow coal gasifier. It visualized the three‐phase flow process and separation of the solid particles, including the bubble motion and particle separation processes. The concentration distribution and separation efficiency of the particles were quantitatively analyzed considering various major influencing factors. The particle separation mechanism was analyzed based on the characteristics of the three‐phase flow, and the results confirm that a multi‐peak distribution of particle concentration exists in the liquid pool along the axial and radial directions. There is considerable variation in peak particle concentration points with different particle sizes; as particle size increases, the particle separation efficiency also rises. Based on the calculation conditions in this study, the separation efficiencies obtained with particle diameters of 50, 20, and 10 μm were 96.98%, 94.48%, and 87.31%, respectively.
Protecting‐Group‐Free Total Synthesis of (–)‐Pallambins A—D
Authors: Zhang Xiwu , Wang Yuan , Chen Peng , Cai Xinxian , Jia Yanxing
Published: March 2021

Main observation and conclusion

A full account of the total synthesis of (–)‐pallambins A—D (1—6) is described. The strategy was devised by simulating their biosynthetic pathway. The left‐part bicyclo[3.2.1]octane system of pallambins C and D was efficiently constructed via a palladium‐ catalyzed oxidative cyclization. For construction of the right‐part tetrahydrofuran/γ‐lactone moiety (C/D rings), initial attempts to synthesize the allylic alcohol 15 for an one‐step Pd‐mediated alkoxycarbonylation have failed. However, during the course of this work, an unprecedented CH3Li‐mediated method for conversion of bromoisoxazoline to the corresponding β‐hydroxy nitrile has been discovered. Furthermore, a stepwise protocol was designed, namely an Eschenmoser‐Claisen rearrangement/Lactonization to generate the C ring, and a non‐classical Wittig reaction to form the D ring. During the course of this work, a palladium‐catalyzed method for dehydrobromination of bromide ketone was developed. Finally, an individual transformation of pallambins C (3) and D (4) generated pallambins A (5) and B (6) under mild UV irradiation. Thus, the first enantioselective total syntheses of (–)‐pallambins A—D have been achieved in 15 or 16 steps from the known chiral cyclohexenone 8. The described synthesis avoids protecting‐group manipulations by designing highly chemo‐ and stereoselective transformations.
Lattice Boltzmann simulation of transient blood flow in arterial geometries using a regularised, viscoplastic and shear‐thinning fluid
Authors: Hill Bryce M. , Leonardi Christopher R.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a lattice Boltzmann framework for the transient simulation of blood flow using biologically inspired geometries and pressure boundary conditions. The Kuang‐Luo rheological model is used to represent blood as a homogeneous continuum. This model includes the two primary non‐Newtonian characteristics of blood, namely viscoplasticity and pseudoplasticity. This paper makes two contributions. First, the numerical challenges associated with zero strain rates and infinite viscosity, as a consequence of the yield stress in the Kuang‐Luo model, were addressed by regularising the constitutive equation so that the viscosity tends towards a finite value at low strain rates. A two‐relaxation‐time operator, which exhibits improved performance over the single‐relaxation‐time operator and lower computational overhead than the multiple‐relaxation‐time operator, is employed in the collision process. The recursive relationship between the local strain rate and relaxation rate was addressed by use of an implicit solver for these two quantities. The implemented model was benchmarked against analytic solutions for Poiseuille flow between parallel plates in two dimensions and in a cylindrical tube in three dimensions. More importantly, the transient performance of the implemented model was demonstrated by matching the predicted start‐up flow of the Poiseuille flow of a Bingham fluid with the corresponding analytical solution. Second, the numerical developments were applied in the simulation of transient blood flow in complex configurations. The development and implementation of physically inspired pressure profiles highlighted the shortcomings of using a sinusoidal pressure profile in the prediction of velocity and stress distributions. Finally, the simulation of blood flow in a section of a carotid artery indicated a number of flow characteristics that will be of interest to future investigations of clinical problems.
Passive approximations of double‐exponent fractional‐order impedance functions
Authors: Kapoulea Stavroula , Psychalinos Costas , Elwakil Ahmed S.
Published: March 2021

Double‐exponent fractional‐order impedance functions are important for modeling a wide range of biochemical materials and biological tissues. Through appropriate selection of the two exponents (fractional orders), the well‐known Havriliak–Negami, Cole–Cole, Cole–Davidson, and Debye relaxation models can be obtained as special cases. Here we show that an integer‐order Padé‐based approximation of the Havriliak–Negami function is possible to obtain and can be realized using appropriately configured Cauer/Foster resistor‐capacitor (RC) networks. Two application examples are subsequently examined: the emulation of the capacitive behavior in a polycrystalline solid electrolyte and the emulation of the impedance of four “fractal” vegetable types.
Memory CD8+ T cell compartment associated with delayed onset of Plasmodium falciparum infection and better parasite control in sickle‐cell trait children
Authors: Loiseau Claire , Traore Boubacar , Ongoiba Aissata , Kayentao Kassoum , Doumbo Safiatou , Doumtabe Didier , de Sousa Karina P , Brady Jamie L , Proietti Carla , Crompton Peter D , Doolan Denise L
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Study of individuals with protection from Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) infection and clinical malaria, including individuals affected by the sickle‐cell trait (HbAS), offers the potential to identify cellular targets that could be translated for therapeutic development. We previously reported the first involvement of cellular immunity in HbAS‐associated relative protection and identified a novel subset of memory‐activated NK cells that was enriched in HbAS children and associated with parasite control. We hypothesised that other memory cell subsets might distinguish the baseline profile of HbAS children and children with normal haemoglobin (HbAA).

Methods

Subsets of memory T cells and NK cells were analysed by flow cytometry in paired samples collected from HbAS and HbAA children, at baseline and during the first malaria episode of the ensuing transmission season. Correlations between cell frequencies and features of HbAS‐mediated protection from malaria were determined.

Results

HbAS children displayed significantly higher frequency of memory CD8+ T cells at baseline than HbAA children. Baseline frequency of memory CD8+ T cells correlated with features of HbAS‐mediated protection from malaria. Exploration of memory CD8+ T cell subsets revealed that central memory CD8+ T cell frequency was higher in HbAS children than in HbAA children.

Conclusion

This study shows that HbAS children develop a larger memory CD8+ T cell compartment than HbAA children, and associates this compartment with better control of subsequent onset of infection and parasite density. Our data suggest that central memory CD8+ T cells may play an important role in the relative protection against malaria experienced by HbAS individuals, and further work to investigate this is warranted.
The role of LTBPs in TGF beta signaling
Authors: Rifkin Daniel , Sachan Nalani , Singh Karan , Sauber Elyse , Tellides George , Ramirez Francesco
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this review is to discuss the transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) binding proteins (LTBP) with respect to their participation in the activity of TGFB. We first describe pertinent aspects of the biology and cell function of the LTBPs. We then summarize the physiological consequences of LTBP loss in humans and mice. Finally, we consider a number of outstanding questions relating to LTBP function.
Coflowering invasive plants and a congener have neutral effects on fitness components of a rare endemic plant
Authors: Larson Diane L. , Larson Jennifer L. , Symstad Amy J. , Buhl Deborah A. , Portman Zachary M.
Published: March 2021

Network analyses rarely include fitness components, such as germination, to tie invasive plants to population‐level effects on the natives. We address this limitation in a previously studied network of flower visitors around a suite of native and invasive plants that includes an endemic plant at Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA. Eriogonum visheri coflowers with two abundant invasive plants, Salsola tragus and Melilotus officinalis, as well as a common congener, E. pauciflorum. Network analyses had suggested strong linkages between E. visheri and S. tragus and E. pauciflorum, with a weaker link to M. officinalis. We measured visitation, pollen deposited on stigmas, achene weight and germination over three field seasons (two for germination) in four populations (two in the final season) of E. visheri and applied in situ pollen treatments to E. visheri, adding pollen from other flowers on the same plant; flowers on other E. visheri plants; S. tragus, M. officinalis, or E. pauciflorum; open pollination; or excluding pollinators. Insect visitation to E. visheri was not affected by floral abundance of any of the focal species. Most visitors were halictid bees; one of these (Lasioglossum packeri) was the only identified species to visit E. visheri all three years. Ninety‐seven percent of pollen on collected E. visheri stigmas was conspecific, but 22% of flowers had >1 grain of E. pauciflorum pollen on stigmas and 7% had >1 grain of S. tragus pollen; <1% of flowers had M. officinalis pollen on stigmas. None of the pollen treatments produced significant differences in weight or germination of E. visheri achenes. We conclude that, in contrast to the results of the network analysis, neither of the invasive species poses a threat, via heterospecific pollen deposition, to pollination of the endemic E. visheri, and that its congener provides alternative pollen resources to its pollinators.
Molecular evolution and SSRs analysis based on the chloroplast genome ofCallitropsis funebris
Authors: Ping Jingyao , Feng Peipei , Li Jinye , Zhang Rongjing , Su Yingjuan , Wang Ting
Published: March 2021

Chloroplast genome sequences have been used to understand evolutionary events and to infer efficiently phylogenetic relationships.Callitropsis funebris(Cupressaceae) is an endemic species in China. Its phylogenetic position is controversial due to morphological characters similar to those ofCupressus,Callitropsis,andChamaecyparis. This study used next‐generation sequencing technology to sequence the complete chloroplast genome ofCa. funebrisand then constructed the phylogenetic relationship betweenCa. funebrisand its related species based on a variety of data sets and methods. Simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and adaptive evolution analysis were also conducted. Our results showed that the monophyletic branch consisting ofCa. funebrisandCupressus tonkinensisis a sister toCupressus,whileCallitropsisis not monophyletic;Ca. nootkatensisandCa. vietnamensisare nested in turn at the base of the monophyletic groupHesperocyparis. The statistical results of SSRs supported the closest relationship betweenCa. funebrisandCupressus. By performing adaptive evolution analysis under the phylogenetic background of Cupressales, the Branch model detected three genes and the Site model detected 10 genes under positive selection; and the Branch‐Site model uncovered thatrpoA has experienced positive selection in theCa. funebriesbranch. Molecular analysis from the chloroplast genome highly supported thatCa. funebrisis at the base ofCupressus. Of note, SSR features were found to be able to shed some light on phylogenetic relationships. In short, this chloroplast genomic study has provided new insights into the phylogeny ofCa. funebrisand revealed multiple chloroplast genes possibly undergoing adaptive evolution.
How complementarity and selection affect the relationship between ecosystem functioning and stability
Authors: Wang Shaopeng , Isbell Forest , Deng Wanlu , Hong Pubin , Dee Laura E. , Thompson Patrick , Loreau Michel
Published: March 2021

The biotic mechanisms underlying ecosystem functioning and stability have been extensively—but separately—explored in the literature, making it difficult to understand the relationship between functioning and stability. In this study, we used community models to examine how complementarity and selection, the two major biodiversity mechanisms known to enhance ecosystem biomass production, affect ecosystem stability. Our analytic and simulation results show that although complementarity promotes stability, selection impairs it. The negative effects of selection on stability operate through weakening portfolio effects and selecting species that have high productivity but low tolerance to perturbations (“risk‐prone” species). In contrast, complementarity enhances stability by increasing portfolio effects and reducing the relative abundance of risk‐prone species. Consequently, ecosystem functioning and stability exhibit either a synergy, if complementarity effects prevail, or trade‐off, if selection effects prevail. Across species richness levels, ecosystem functioning and stability tend to be positively related, but negative relationships can occur when selection co‐varies with richness. Our findings provide novel insights for understanding the functioning‐stability relationship, with potential implications for both ecological research and ecosystem management.
Increasing immunoglobulin G adsorption in dextran‐grafted protein A gels
Authors: Huan Liming , Shi Qing‐Hong
Published: March 2021

The formation of a stable spatial arrangement of protein A ligands is a great challenge for the development of high‐capacity polymer‐grafted protein A adsorbents due to the complexity in interplay between coupled ligands and polymer chain. In this work, carboxymethyl dextrans (CMDs) with different molecular weight were introduced to provide stable spatial ligand arrangement in CMD‐grafted protein A gels to improve IgG adsorption. The result showed that coupling of protein A ligand in CMD‐grafted layer had no marked influence on pore size and dextran layers coupled with the ligands were stable in experimental range of salt concentrations. The result of IgG adsorption revealed that carboxymethyl dextran T10, a short CMD, was more suitable as a scaffold for the synthesis of high‐capacity protein A gels. Moreover, the maximal adsorption capacity for IgG was obtained to be 96.4 mg/g gel at ionic capacities of 300–350 mmol/L and a ligand density of 15.2 mg/g gel. Dynamic binding capacity for IgG exhibited a higher capacity utilization in CMD‐grafted protein A gels than non‐grafted protein A gel. The research presented a tactics to establish a stable dextran layer coupled with protein A ligands and demonstrated its importance to improve binding capacity for IgG.
Extrapolating Acute Contact Bee Sensitivity to Insecticides Based on Body Weight Using a Phylogenetically Informed Interspecies Scaling Framework
Authors: Pamminger Tobias
Published: March 2021

Plant protection products, including insecticides, are important for global food production but can have adverse effects on nontarget organisms including bees. Historically, research investigating such effects has focused mainly on the honeybee (Apis mellifera), whereas less information is available for non-Apis bees. Consequently, a comprehensive hazard (sensitivity) assessment for the majority of bees is lacking, which in turn hinders accurate risk characterization and consequently bee protection. Interspecies sensitivity extrapolation based on body weight might be a way to improve the situation, but in the past such approaches often ignored the phylogenetic background of the species used, which in turn potentially reduces the robustness of such results. Published acute contact sensitivity data (median lethal dose per bee) of bees to insecticides, their body weight, and their phylogenetic background were used to build interspecies scaling models to predict bee sensitivity based on their weight. The results indicate that 1) bee body weight is a predictor of acute contact bee sensitivity to a range of insecticides, and 2) phylogeny (nonindependence of data points) needs to be considered in cross-species analysis, although it does not always confound the observed effects.  Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2042–2050. © 2021 SETAC
Increased Adipose Tissue Fibrogenesis, Not Impaired Expandability, Is Associated With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Beals Joseph W. , Smith Gordon I. , Shankaran Mahalakshmi , Fuchs Anja , Schweitzer George G. , Yoshino Jun , Field Tyler , Matthews Marcy , Nyangau Edna , Morozov Darya , Mittendorfer Bettina , Hellerstein Marc K. , Klein Samuel
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

It is proposed that impaired expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and an increase in adipose tissue (AT) fibrosis causes ectopic lipid accumulation, insulin resistance (IR), and metabolically unhealthy obesity. We therefore evaluated whether a decrease in SAT expandability, assessed by measuring SAT lipogenesis (triglyceride [TG] production), and an increase in SAT fibrogenesis (collagen production) are associated with NAFLD and IR in persons with obesity.

Approach and Results

In vivo abdominal SAT lipogenesis and fibrogenesis, expression of SAT genes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) formation, and insulin sensitivity were assessed in three groups of participants stratified by adiposity and intrahepatic TG (IHTG) content: (1) healthy lean with normal IHTG content (Lean‐NL; n = 12); (2) obese with normal IHTG content and normal glucose tolerance (Ob‐NL; n = 25); and (3) obese with NAFLD and abnormal glucose metabolism (Ob‐NAFLD; n = 25). Abdominal SAT TG synthesis rates were greater (P < 0.05) in both the Ob‐NL (65.9 ± 4.6 g/wk) and Ob‐NAFLD groups (71.1 ± 6.7 g/wk) than the Lean‐NL group (16.2 ± 2.8 g/wk) without a difference between the Ob‐NL and Ob‐NAFLD groups. Abdominal SAT collagen synthesis rate and the composite expression of genes encoding collagens progressively increased from the Lean‐NL to the Ob‐NL to the Ob‐NAFLD groups and were greater in the Ob‐NAFLD than the Ob‐NL group (P < 0.05). Composite expression of collagen genes was inversely correlated with both hepatic and whole‐body insulin sensitivity (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

AT expandability is not impaired in persons with obesity and NAFLD. However, SAT fibrogenesis is greater in persons with obesity and NAFLD than in those with obesity and normal IHTG content, and is inversely correlated with both hepatic and whole‐body insulin sensitivity.
It takes a community to save a life in cardiac arrest: Heart safe community pilots, Australia
Authors: Naccarella Lucio , Saxton Danielle , Lugg Eugene , Marley Joel
Published: March 2021

Issue Addressed

In Australia only 1 in 12 people will survive an out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Heart Safe Community (HSC) is a public health initiative being implemented by the Heart Foundation, Victoria in partnership with Ambulance Victoria. It aims to improve survival from OHCA by improving public access to 24 hours Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and by building local community skills and confidence in basic resuscitation. Over the period 2017‐20, the University of Melbourne was commissioned to evaluate the implementation, effectiveness, and sustainability of three HSC pilots in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

Mixed methods were used including eight focus group discussions with 64 local HSC community stakeholders and local HSC pilot site evaluation data.

Results

The local HSC pilot community presentation surveys revealed that the HSC pilots delivered hundreds of presentations on bystander resuscitation, with 2772 local community members being exposed to the call to action: ‘Call, Push Shock’ and ‘anyone can save a life’. Focus group discussions revealed that the HSC pilots built local community capacity to respond to OHCA as demonstrated by increased knowledge, confidence and skills to call Emergency Medical Services, attempt chest compression, acquire and use an AED. Community leadership to advocate for improved access to AEDs and to propagate HSC initiatives amongst community settings and cohorts has occurred. HSC implementation enablers and challenges exist. Community capacity‐building frameworks can explain what makes the HSC pilot work.

Conclusion

HSC can build local community capacity to respond to OHCA. Eight principles are suggested to support the building, implementation and sustainability of future HSC efforts.

So what?

The HSC experience reveals that community members across the lifespan and multiple settings embrace opportunities to improve the safety and response in their community to a cardiac arrest when the action is simplified and community ownership cultivated.