bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Electrical and Optical Microsystems for Biointerfacing
Authors: Obaid Sofian N. , Chen Zhiyuan , Lu Luyao
Published: July 2020

Electrical and optical biointerfaces have contributed considerably to understanding biological systems. Recent advances in biocompatible materials, structure designs, and fabrication techniques have established flexible and minimally invasive electronic/optoelectronic platforms that laminate onto targeted surface regions or implant into precise locations of biosystems to monitor and control various biological processes at cell, tissue, and organ levels. Herein, recent progress in advanced biointegrated electrical and optical platforms is discussed. An overview of materials and device designs to form flexible and even stretchable electrodes is presented. Strategies to reduce tissue damage and foreign‐body response to improve chronic stability are described. State‐of‐the‐art wearable and implantable microsystems with/without wireless capabilities for bioelectrical sensing and stimulation, optical recording and modulation, and multimodal operation are highlighted. In conclusion, a discussion of the remaining obstacles for future research in these areas is provided.
Transition‐Metal‐Mediated/Catalyzed Synthesis of Pyridines, Pyrimidines, and Triazines by [2+2+2] Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Nagata Tatsuki , Obora Yasushi
Published: July 2020

Nitrogen‐containing six‐membered heterocycles such as pyridines, pyrimidines, and triazines are widely used in the synthesis of natural products and pharmaceuticals. Recently, a promising approach to these structures via [2+2+2] cycloadditions of alkynes and nitriles has been developed. Transition‐metal complex catalysts play key roles in the regio‐, chemo‐, or stereo‐selectivity of transformations. Here, we summarize recent advances in metal‐mediated/catalyzed [2+2+2] cycloadditions for synthesizing pyridines and pyrimidines. We also describe progress in triazine synthesis via metal‐mediated/catalyzed nitrile cyclotrimerization.
Medical and surgical treatment outcomes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and immunodeficiency: a systematic review
Authors: Samargandy Shireen , Grose Elysia , Chan Yvonne , Monteiro Eric , Lee John M. , Yip Jonathan
Published: July 2020

Background

Immunodeficiency is a risk factor for recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Currently, there is no consensus on effective treatment modalities for immunodeficient CRS patients. This review aims to evaluate the existing evidence on the treatment outcomes and its limitations in patients with CRS and immunodeficiency.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched from inception to April 2019 for studies reporting measurable medical or surgical treatment outcomes for adult patients with CRS and underlying primary or secondary immunodeficiency.

Results

Of the 2459 articles screened, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria: 2 prospective double‐blind placebo‐controlled trials, 2 prospective case‐control studies, 2 prospective cohort studies, and 7 case series. The high degree of study heterogeneity precluded a meta‐analysis. Antibiotic monotherapy was not linked with significant improvement in clinical, radiographic, or endoscopic outcomes. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy may potentially reduce the frequency of acute or chronic sinusitis in patients with primary immunodeficiency (PID) but may not improve their sinonasal symptoms. Outcomes from endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) were reported in 8 studies, which found that surgery was linked with improvement in symptoms, disease‐specific quality of life, endoscopy scores, and radiographic scores. The average reported ESS revision rate was 14%.

Conclusion

Patients with CRS and immunodeficiency likely benefit from ESS based on the available evidence. Data supporting medical therapy in this targeted population is limited overall, but there may be a potential role for immunoglobulin therapy in patients with PID and CRS.
A physician‐staffed ground emergency medical service does not significantly shorten door‐to‐balloon time in patients with STEMI: an observational study in a single emergency center in Japan
Authors: Yoshioka Yuki , Teshima Ryota , Gamo Mina , Yoneda Ryuhei , Matsunaga Naoki , Takada Tadaaki , Fukuta Yasushi , Kishi Koichi
Published: July 2020

Aim

Current guidelines recommend a door‐to‐balloon time (DTBT) of <90 min for reperfusion treatment of patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). A physician‐staffed ground emergency medical service (GEMS) using a rapid response car (RRC) system was implemented at our hospital in April 2015. The medical team, including a physician and nurse, is dispatched to assess the patient and expedite the start of treatment by emergency physicians and cardiologists after arrival at the hospital. The study aimed to determine whether the RRC system shortened the DTBT.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was carried out in a tertiary emergency center in Japan. Those STEMI patients with primary percutaneous intervention between January 2016 and December 2018 were evaluated. The DTBTs of patients transported by the RRC system, the emergency medical service (EMS), and transferred from other hospitals after STEMI diagnosis (TRANS group) were compared.

Results

A total of 121 patients were included, 33 in the RCC, 20 in the EMS, and 68 in the TRANS groups. The median DTBT was 51 min (interquartile range [IQR], 43–67) in the RRC, 61 min (IQR, 52–85) in the EMS, and 59 min (IQR, 48–72) in the TRANS groups (P = 0.13). The DTBT was not significantly shorter in the RRC than in the other groups.

Conclusion

An RRC physician‐staffed GEMS did not significantly shorten the DTBT of patients with STEMI compared with other transport systems.
Catalyst‐Controlled Transannular Polyketide Cyclization Cascades: Selective Folding of Macrocyclic Polyketides
Authors: Raps Felix C. , Fäseke Vincent C. , Häussinger Daniel , Sparr Christof
Published: July 2020

The biomimetic synthesis of aromatic polyketides from macrocyclic substrates by means of catalyst‐controlled transannular cyclization cascades is described. The macrocyclic substrates, which feature increased stability and fewer conformational states, were thereby transformed into several distinct polyketide scaffolds. The catalyst‐controlled transannular cyclizations selectively led to aromatic polyketides with a defined folding and oxygenation pattern, thus emulating β‐keto‐processing steps of polyketide biosynthesis.
Modulating Benzothiadiazole‐Based Covalent Organic Frameworks via Halogenation for Enhanced Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Chen Weiben , Wang Lei , Mo Daize , He Feng , Wen Zhilin , Wu Xiaojun , Xu Hangxun , Chen Long
Published: July 2020

Two‐dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs), an emerging class of crystalline porous polymers, have been recognized as a new platform for efficient solar‐to‐hydrogen energy conversion owing to their pre‐designable structures and tailor‐made functions. Herein, we demonstrate that slight modulation of the chemical structure of a typical photoactive 2D COF (Py‐HTP‐BT‐COF) via chlorination (Py‐ClTP‐BT‐COF) and fluorination (Py‐FTP‐BT‐COF) can lead to dramatically enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution rates (HER=177.50 μmol h−1 with a high apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) of 8.45 % for Py‐ClTP‐BT‐COF). Halogen modulation at the photoactive benzothiadiazole moiety can efficiently suppress charge recombination and significantly reduce the energy barrier associated with the formation of H intermediate species (H*) on polymer surface. Our findings provide new prospects toward design and synthesis of highly active organic photocatalysts toward solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion.
Near‐Infrared Light‐Triggered Chlorine Radical (.Cl) Stress for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Song Ruixue , Wang Han , Zhang Meng , Liu Yanyan , Meng Xianfu , Zhai Shaojie , Wang Chao‐chao , Gong Teng , Wu Yelin , Jiang Xingwu , Bu Wenbo
Published: July 2020

Free radicals with reactive chemical properties can fight tumors without causing drug resistance. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been widely used for cancer treatment, but regrettably, the common O2 and H2O2 deficiency in tumors sets a severe barrier for sufficient ROS production, leading to unsatisfactory anticancer outcomes. Here, we construct a chlorine radical (.Cl) nano‐generator with SiO2‐coated upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) on the inside and Ag0/AgCl hetero‐dots on the outside. Upon near‐infrared (NIR) light irradiation, the short‐wavelength emission UCNP catalyzes .Cl generation from Ag0/AgCl with no dependence on O2/H2O2. .Cl with strong oxidizing capacity and nucleophilicity can attack biomolecules in cancer cells more effectively than ROS. This .Cl stress treatment will no doubt broaden the family of oxidative stress‐induced antitumor strategies by using non‐oxygen free radicals, which is significant in the development of new anticancer agents.
Mechanical‐Bending‐Induced Fluorescence Enhancement in Plastically Flexible Crystals of a GFP Chromophore Analogue
Authors: Bhattacharya Biswajit , Roy Debjit , Dey Somnath , Puthuvakkal Anisha , Bhunia Surojit , Mondal Saikat , Chowdhury Rituparno , Bhattacharya Manjima , Mandal Mrinal , Manoj Kochunnoonny , Mandal Prasun K. , Reddy C. Malla
Published: July 2020

Single crystals of optoelectronic materials that respond to external stimuli, such as mechanical, light, or heat, are immensely attractive for next generation smart materials. Here we report single crystals of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) chromophore analogue with irreversible mechanical bending and associated unusual enhancement of the fluorescence, which is attributed to the strained molecular packing in the perturbed region. Soft crystalline materials with such fluorescence intensity modulations occurring in response to mechanical stimuli under ambient pressure conditions will have potential implications for the design of technologically relevant tunable fluorescent materials.
Electroreduction of Carbon Dioxide in Metallic Nanopores through a Pincer Mechanism
Authors: Feng Yi , Cheng Chuan‐Qi , Zou Cheng‐Qin , Zheng Xue‐Li , Mao Jing , Liu Hui , Li Zhe , Dong Cun‐Ku , Du Xi‐Wen
Published: July 2020

Metallic catalysts with nanopores are advantageous on improving both activity and selectivity, while the reason behind that remains unclear all along. In this work, porous Zn nanoparticles (P‐Zn) were adopted as a model catalyst to investigate the catalytic behavior of metallic nanopores. In situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) analyses reveal that the concave surface of nanopores works like a pincer to capture and clamp CO2 and H2O precursors simultaneously, thus lowering the energy barriers of CO2 electroreduction. Resultantly, the pincer mechanism endows P‐Zn with a high Faradic efficiency (98.1 %) towards CO production at the potential of −0.95 V vs. RHE. Moreover, DFT calculation demonstrates that Co and Cu nanopores exhibit the pincer behavior as well, suggesting that this mechanism is universal for metallic nanopores.
Iodine‐Transfer Polymerization (ITP) of Ethylene and Copolymerization with Vinyl Acetate
Authors: Wolpers A. , Baffie F. , Verrieux L. , Perrin L. , Monteil V. , D'Agosto F.
Published: July 2020

Controlled radical polymerization of ethylene using different commercially available, cheap, and non‐toxic iodo alkyls is performed by iodine transfer polymerization (ITP) under mild conditions (≤100 °C and ≤200 bar). The formed well‐defined iodo end‐capped polyethylene (PE−I) species is very stable upon storage. Narrow molar‐mass distributions (dispersities around 1.6) were obtained up to number average molar masses of 7300 g mol−1. The ethylene copolymerization by ITP (ITcoP) with vinyl acetate allowed to form a broad range of poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (EVA) containing from 0 to 85 mol % of VAc unit. In addition, EVA‐b‐PE block copolymers or EVA‐b‐EVA gradient block copolymers with different content of VAc in the blocks were obtained for the first time using ITP. Finally, reactivity trends were explored by a theoretical mechanistic study. This highly versatile synthetic platform provides a straightforward access to a diverse range of well‐defined PE based polymer materials.
Identifying a Real Catalyst of [NiFe]‐Hydrogenase Mimic for Exceptional H2 Photogeneration
Authors: Wang Xu‐Zhe , Meng Shu‐Lin , Xiao Hongyan , Feng Ke , Wang Yang , Jian Jing‐Xin , Li Xu‐Bing , Tung Chen‐Ho , Wu Li‐Zhu
Published: July 2020

Inspired by the natural [NiFe]‐H2ase, we designed mimic 1, (dppe)Ni(μ‐pdt)(μ‐Cl)Ru(CO)2Cl to realize effective H2 evolution under photocatalytic conditions. However, a new species 2 was captured in the course of photo‐, electro‐, and chemo‐ one‐electron reduction. Experimental studies of in situ IR spectroscopy, EPR, NMR, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, and DFT calculations corroborated a dimeric structure of 2 as a closed‐shell, symmetric structure with a RuI center. The isolated dimer 2 showed the real catalytic role in photocatalysis with a benchmark turnover frequency (TOF) of 1936 h−1 for H2 evolution, while mimic 1 worked as a pre‐catalyst and evolved H2 only after being reduced to 2. The remarkably catalytic activity and unique dimer structure of 2 operated in photocatalysis unveiled a broad research prospect in hydrogenases mimics for advanced H2 evolution.
Unveiling the Activity and Stability Origin of BiVO4 Photoanodes with FeNi Oxyhydroxides for Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Huang Xiaojuan , Zhang Yan , Lu Gongxuan , Chou Lingjun , Bi Yingpu
Published: July 2020

Understanding the origin of formation and active sites of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) cocatalysts is highly required for solar photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices that generate hydrogen efficiently from water. Herein, we employed a simple pH‐modulated method for in situ growth of FeNi oxyhydroxide ultrathin layers on BiVO4 photoanodes, resulting in one of the highest currently known PEC activities of 5.8 mA cm−2 (1.23 VRHE, AM 1.5 G) accompanied with an excellent stability. More importantly, both comparative experiments and density functional theory (DFT) studies clearly reveal that the selective formation of Bi−O−Fe interfacial bonds mainly contributes the enhanced OER activities, while the construction of V−O−Ni interfacial bonds effectively restrains the dissolution of V5+ ions and promotes the OER stability. Thereby, the synergy between iron and nickel of FeNi oxyhydroxides significantly improved the PEC water oxidation properties of BiVO4 photoanodes.
Intense Red‐Blue Luminescence Based on Superfine Control of Metal–Metal Interactions for Self‐Assembled Platinum(II) Complexes
Authors: Saito Daisuke , Ogawa Tomohiro , Yoshida Masaki , Takayama Junichi , Hiura Satoshi , Murayama Akihiro , Kobayashi Atsushi , Kato Masako
Published: July 2020

A series of assembled PtII complexes comprising N‐heterocyclic carbene and cyanide ligands was constructed using different substituent groups, [Pt(CN)2(R‐impy)] (R‐impyH+=1‐alkyl‐3‐(2‐pyridyl)‐1H‐imidazolium, R=Me (Pt‐Me), Et (Pt‐Et), iPr (Pt‐iPr), and tBu (Pt‐tBu)). All the complexes exhibited highly efficient photoluminescence with an emission quantum yield of 0.51–0.81 in the solid state at room temperature, originating from the triplet metal‐metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (3MMLCT) state. Their emission colors cover the entire visible region from red for Pt‐Me to blue for Pt‐tBu. Importantly, Pt‐tBu is the first example that exhibits blue 3MMLCT emission. The 3MMLCT emission was proved and characterized based on the temperature dependences of the crystal structures and emission properties. The wide‐range color tuning of luminescence using the 3MMLCT emission presents a new strategy of superfine control of the emission color.
Spatially Responsive Multicolor Lanthanide‐MOF Heterostructures for Covert Photonic Barcodes
Authors: Gao Zhenhua , Xu Baoyuan , Zhang Tongjin , Liu Zhen , Zhang Weiguang , Sun Xun , Liu Yang , Wang Xue , Wang Zifei , Yan Yongli , Hu Fengqin , Meng Xiangeng , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: July 2020

Micro/nanoscale photonic barcodes based on multicolor luminescent segmented heterojunctions hold potential for applications in information security. However, such multicolor heterojunctions reported thus far are exclusively based on static luminescent signals, thus restricting their application in advanced confidential information protection. Reported here is a strategy to design responsive photonic barcodes with heterobimetallic (Tb3+/Eu3+) metal—organic framework multicolor heterostructures. The spatial colors could be precisely controlled by thermally manipulating the energy‐transfer process between the two lanthanides, thus achieving responsive covert photonic barcodes. Also demonstrated is that spatially resolved responsive barcodes with multi‐responsive features could be created in a single heterostructure. These findings offer unique opportunities to purposely design highly integrated responsive microstructures and smart devices toward advanced anti‐counterfeiting applications.
pH and excipient profiles during formulation of highly concentrated biotherapeutics using bufferless media
Authors: Jabra Mario G. , Tao Yinying , Moomaw John F. , Yu Zhao , Hotovec Brian J. , Geng Steven B. , Zydney Andrew L.
Published: July 2020

Several models have been developed to describe the shifts in pH and excipient concentrations seen during diafiltration of monoclonal antibody (mAb) products accounting for both Donnan equilibrium and electroneutrality constraints. However, these models have assumed that the mAb charge is either constant or only a function of pH, assumptions that will not be valid when formulating highly concentrated mAbs using bufferless or low‐buffered media due to the change in local H+ concentration at the protein surface. The objective of this study was to incorporate the effects of both pH and ionic strength on the mAb charge, through the use of a charge regulation model based on the amino acid sequence of the mAb, into an appropriate mass balance model to describe the pH and excipient profiles during diafiltration. The model involves no adjustable parameters, with the protein charge evaluated directly from the protonation/deprotonation of the ionizable amino acids accounting for the electrostatic interactions between the charged mAb and the H+ ions. Model predictions are in excellent agreement with experimental data for the pH and ion concentrations during diafiltration of a mAb and fusion protein with different isoelectric points and different formulation conditions. Model simulations are then used to obtain fundamental insights into the factors controlling the diafiltration behavior as well as guidelines for development of diafiltration processes to achieve target bufferless formulation conditions.
Changes in characteristics and management among patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction due to COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Popovic Batric , Varlot Jeanne , Metzdorf Pierre Adrien , Jeulin Hélène , Goehringer François , Camenzind Edoardo
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To assess changes in characteristics and management among ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods

Our prospective, monocentric study enrolled all STEMI patients who underwent PPCI during the COVID‐19 outbreak (n = 83). This cohort was first compared with a previous cohort of STEMI patients (2008–2017, n = 1,552 patients) and was then dichotomized into a non‐COVID‐19 group (n = 72) and COVID‐19 group (n = 11).

Results

In comparison with the pre‐outbreak period, patients during the outbreak period were older (59.6 ± 12.9 vs. 62.6 ± 12.2, p = .03) with a delayed seek to care (mean delay first symptoms‐balloon 3.8 ± 3 vs. .7.4 ± 7.7, p < .001) resulting in a two‐fold higher in‐hospital mortality (non COVID‐19 4.3% vs. COVID‐19 8.4%, p = .07). Among the 83 STEMI patients admitted during the outbreak period, 11 patients were infected by COVID‐19. Higher biological markers of inflammation (C‐reactive protein: 28 ± 39 vs. 98 ± 97 mg/L, p = .04), of fibrinolysis (D‐dimer: 804 ± 1,500 vs. 3,128 ± 2,458 μg/L, p = .02), and antiphospholipid antibodies in four cases were observed in the COVID‐19 group. In this group, angiographic data also differed: a thrombotic myocardial infarction nonatherosclerotic coronary occlusion (MINOCA) was observed in 11 cases (1.4% vs. 54.5%, p < .001) and associated with higher post‐procedure distal embolization (30.6% vs. 72.7%, p = .007). The in hospital mortality was significantly higher in the COVID‐19 group (5.6% vs. 27.3%, p = .016).

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 outbreak implies deep changes in the etiopathogenesis and therapeutic management of STEMI patients with COVID‐19. The impact on early and long‐term outcomes of systemic inflammation and hypercoagulability in this specific population is warranted.
H Syndrome retrospectively diagnosed: The importance of recognizing cutaneous signs
Authors: Parodi Aurora , Cozzani Emanuele
Published: July 2020

We present a case of a retrospectively diagnosed H syndrome in a man who died of a probable heart infarction. We highlight the importance of recognizing cutaneous hallmarks of this syndrome for better clinical management and prevention.
Resolution of an unexpected ABO typing discrepancy in a 9‐month‐old patient with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Hermelin Daniela , Zhang Danmei , Blackall Douglas
Published: July 2020

In the post–hematopoietic transplant period, the components of the ABO blood type (antigen testing of erythrocytes and plasma antibody testing) can provide important insights into a patient's immunologic status.
Hydrodebromination of Aromatic Bromides Catalyzed by Unsupported Nanoporous Gold: Heterolytic Cleavage of Hydrogen Molecule
Authors: Zhao Yuhui , Feng Xiujuan , Zhang Sheng , Yamamoto Yoshinori , Bao Ming
Published: July 2020

Unsupported nanoporous gold (AuNPore) is a highly efficient, practically applicable, and recyclable catalyst for hydrodebromination of aromatic bromides. The AuNPore‐catalyzed hydrodebromination of aromatic bromides proceeded smoothly at relatively low hydrogen pressure and temperature to achieve good to excellent yields of the corresponding non‐bromine variants. The selective hydrodebromination reaction occurred exclusively in the coexistence of chlorine atom. For the first time, a mechanistic study revealed that the H−H bond splits in a heterolysis manner on the surface of AuNPore to generate Au−H hydride species.
Copper‐Catalyzed C−H Difluoroalkylation of Coumarins with Fluoroalkyl Bromides
Authors: Rao Min , Wei Zhenwei , Yuan Yaofeng , Cheng Jiajia
Published: July 2020

An efficient method for the copper‐catalyzed selective C−H difluoroalkylation of coumarins and with low cost and readily available ethyl bromodifluoroacetate and N‐phenyl bromodifluoroacetamide has been reported. This reaction exhibits good functional group tolerance with respect to coumarins and difluoroalkylation reagents, and several redox‐sensitive substrates have been successfully C−H difluoroalkylated in good to high yield. This design could further expand the scope to other heteroarenes, including furan, benzofuran, pyrrole, pyridinone, chromenone, indole, and quinolinone. A mechanism involving copper‐catalyzed in‐situ generation of fluoroalkyl radical is proposed.
Modulating Magnetic and Photoluminescence Properties in 2‐Aminonicotinate‐Based Bifunctional Coordination Polymers by Merging 3d Metal Ions
Authors: Pajuelo‐Corral Oier , Zabala‐Lekuona Andoni , San Sebastian Eider , Rodríguez‐Diéguez Antonio , García Jose Angel , Lezama Luis , Colacio Enrique , Seco Jose M. , Cepeda Javier
Published: July 2020

Herein, the synthesis and study of bifunctional coordination polymers (CPs) with both magnetic and photoluminescence properties, derived from a heterometallic environment, are reported. As a starting point, three isostructural monometallic CPs with the formula [M(μ‐2ani)2]n (MII=Mn (1Mn), Co (3Co) and Ni (4Ni); 2ani=2‐aminonicotinate), crystallise as chiral 2D‐layered structures stacked by means of supramolecular interactions. These compounds show high thermal stability in the solid state (above 350 °C), despite which, in aqueous solution, compound 1Mn is shown to partially transform into a novel 1D chain CP with the formula [Mn(2ani)2(μ‐H2O)2]n (2Mn). A study of the direct current (dc) magnetic properties of 1Mn, 3Co and 4Ni reveals a spin‐canted structure derived from antisymmetric antiferromagnetic weak exchanges along the chiral network (as confirmed by DFT calculations) and magnetic anisotropy of the ions, in such a way that long‐range ordering is observed with variable magnitude for the spin carriers. Moreover, compounds 3Co and 4Ni show no frequency‐dependent alternating current (ac) susceptibility curves under zero dc field; this is characteristic behaviour of a glassy state that may be partially supressed for 3Co by applying an external dc field. To overcome long‐range magnetic ordering, CoII ions are diluted in a diamagnetic ZnII‐based matrix, which enables single‐molecule magnet behaviour. Interestingly, this strategy allows a bifunctional CoxZn1−x2ani material, which is imbued with a strong photoluminescent emitting capacity, as characterised by an intense blue light followed by a green afterglow, to be obtained.
The Valence Orbitals of the Alkaline‐Earth Atoms
Authors: Fernández Israel , Holzmann Nicole , Frenking Gernot
Published: July 2020

Quantum chemical calculations of the alkaline‐earth oxides, imides and dihydrides of the alkaline‐earth atoms (Ae=Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) and the calcium cluster Ca6H9[N(SiMe3)2]3(pmdta)3(pmdta=N,N,N′,N′′,N′′‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine) have been carried out by using density functional theory. Analysis of the electronic structures by charge and energy partitioning methods suggests that the valence orbitals of the lighter atoms Be and Mg are the (n)s and (n)p orbitals. In contrast, the valence orbitals of the heavier atoms Ca, Sr and Ba comprise the (n)s and (n−1)d orbitals. The alkaline‐earth metals Be and Mg build covalent bonds like typical main‐group elements, whereas Ca, Sr and Ba covalently bind like transition metals. The results not only shed new light on the covalent bonds of the heavier alkaline‐earth metals, but are also very important for understanding and designing experimental studies.
Kohlenstoffkreislauf und Klimawandel
Authors: Wöhrle Dieter
Published: July 2020

Zunächst werden im Abschnitt Kohlenstoffzyclus die Mengen an Kohlenstoff in und insbesondere beim Kohlenstoffdioxid die Wechselwirkungen zwischen verschiedenen Erdsphären dargelegt. Dabei wird besonders auf die Quellen und Senken für CO2 in der Atmosphäre hingewiesen. Darauf aufbauend wird aufgezeigt, dass der natürliche Treibhauseffekt geprägt durch die solare Einstrahlung und die infrarotaktiven Treibhausgase wie CO2, CH4 und N2O über einen längeren Zeitraum durch ein thermisch‐radiatives Gleichgewicht die Temperatur und damit das Klima bestimmt hat, was Voraussetzung für das Leben auf der Erde ist. Die in den letzten Jahrzehnten stattfindende drastische Zunahme etwa der oberflächennahen Temperaturen und der Anstieg des Meeresspiegels wird durch zunehmende anthropogene Emissionen der Treibhausgase hervorgerufen. Der dramatische Anstieg der CO2‐Konzetration hat eindeutig seine Ursache in der Nutzung fossiler Rohstoffe. Die Senken nehmen nur einen Teil vom anthropogen erzeugten CO2 aus der Atmosphäre auf. Ein kurzer Hinweis zu Verfahren nachhaltiger Technologien wird am Ende gegeben.
Using a structured decision analysis to evaluate bald eagle vital signs monitoring in Southwest Alaska National Parks
Authors: Kolstrom Rebecca , Wilson Tammy L. , Gigliotti Larry M.
Published: July 2020

Monitoring programs can benefit from an adaptive monitoring approach, where key decisions about why, where, what, and how to monitor are revisited periodically in order to ensure programmatic relevancy.

The National Park Service (NPS) monitors status and trends of vital signs to evaluate compliance with the NPS mission. Although abundant, The Southwest Alaska Network (SWAN) monitors bald eagles because of their inherent importance to park visitors and role as an important ecological indicator. Our goal is to identify an optimal monitoring program that may be standardized among participating parks.

We gathered an expert panel of scientists and managers, and implemented a Delphi Process to gather information about the bald eagle monitoring program. Panelists generated a list of means objectives for the monitoring program: minimizing cost, minimizing effort, maximizing the ability to detect change in bald eagle populations, and maximizing the amount of accurate information collected about bald eagles.

We used a swing‐weighting technique to assign importance to each objective. Collecting accurate information about bald eagles was considered the most important means objective.

Combining panelist‐generated information with objective importance, we analyzed the scenarios and defined the optimal decision using linear value modeling. Through our analysis, we found that a “Comprehensive” monitoring scenario, comprised of all feasible monitoring metrics, is the optimal monitoring scenario. Even with greatly increased cost, the Comprehensive monitoring scenario remains the best solution.

We suggest further exploration of the cost and effort required for the Comprehensive scenario, to determine whether it is in the parks’ best interest to begin monitoring additional metrics.
Effects of an anthropogenic diet on indicators of physiological challenge and immunity of white ibis nestlings raised in captivity
Authors: Cummings Caroline R. , Hernandez Sonia M. , Murray Maureen , Ellison Taylor , Adams Henry C. , Cooper Robert E. , Curry Shannon , Navara Kristen J.
Published: July 2020

When wildlife forage and/or live in urban habitats, they often experience a shift in resource availability and dietary quality. Some species even use human handouts, such as bread, as well as human refuse, as a large part of their new diets; yet the influences of this nutritional shift on health and survival remain unclear. American white ibises are increasingly being seen in urban areas in Florida; they collect handouts, such as bread and other food items, from humans in parks, and are also found foraging on anthropogenic sources in trash heaps. We hypothesized that the consumption of these new anthropogenic food sources may trigger increases in indicators of physiological challenge and dampen immune responses. We tested this experimentally by raising 20 white ibis nestlings in captivity, and exposing 10 to a simulated anthropogenic diet (including the addition of white bread and a reduction in seafood content) while maintaining 10 on a diet similar to what ibises consume in more natural environments. We then tested two indicators of physiological challenge (corticosterone and heat shock protein 70), assessed innate immunity in these birds via bactericidal assays and an in vitro carbon clearance assay, and adaptive immunity using a phytohemagglutinin skin test. The anthropogenic diet depressed the development of the ability to kill Salmonella paratyphi in culture. Our results suggest that consuming an anthropogenic diet may be detrimental in terms of the ability to battle a pathogenic bacterial species, but there was little effect on indicators of physiological challenge and other immunological measures.
Genotype–phenotype correlation of LMNA variants involving the Arg541 residue: a case report with multimodality imaging and literature review
Authors: Di Marco Andrea , Ruiz‐Cueto María , Salazar‐Mendiguchía Joel , Claver Eduard , Roura Gerard , Dallaglio Paolo Domenico , Anguera Ignasi
Published: July 2020

We present a case of atypical LMNA cardiomyopathy associated with the pathogenic variant p.Arg541Ser. The patient had early‐onset severe ventricular arrhythmias but atrioventricular conduction was normal. Segmental motion abnormalities and a large transmural scar, mainly apical and lateral, were found at cardiac magnetic resonance, corresponding to areas of severe wall thinning at computed tomography and of low voltages at electroanatomic mapping. Ventricular tachycardia ablation was successful in controlling ventricular arrhythmias. Few other cases described patients with pathogenic variants in the Arg541 residue, and they displayed similar atypical features, suggesting a genotype–phenotype correlation which may have specific prognostic and therapeutic implications.
Case series: LMNA‐related dilated cardiomyopathy presents with reginal wall akinesis and transmural late gadolinium enhancement
Authors: Wang Shuai , Peng Daoquan
Published: July 2020

Patients with LMNA mutation‐related heart disease are characterized by conduction abnormalities, ventricular tachyarrhythmias, and high risk of sudden cardiac death with mildly impaired systolic function, often without chamber dilation. Here, we presented three unrelated cases with LMNA mutation exhibited unusual cardiac phenotype of marked LV dilation, significant reduced ejection fraction with reginal wall akinesis, and transmural enhancement with a predilection of lateral wall on cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). These three patients were found to have confirmed pathological LMNA mutations (c.1621C > T, p.R541C and c.1621G > A, p.R541H) at the same location (p.R541) in the tail region of lamin A/C.
Evaluation of left ventricular function in patients with acute ischaemic stroke using cine cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hellwig Simon , Grittner Ulrike , Elgeti Matthias , Wyschkon Sebastian , Nagel Sebastian N. , Fiebach Jochen B. , Krause Thomas , Herm Juliane , Scheitz Jan F. , Endres Matthias , Nolte Christian H. , Haeusler Karl Georg , Elgeti Thomas
Published: July 2020

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is frequent in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) and associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Assessment of cardiac function in AIS patients using cardiovascular MRI (CMR) may help to detect HF. We report the rate of systolic and diastolic dysfunction in a cohort of patients with AIS using CMR and compare cine real‐time (CRT) sequences with the reference of segmented cine steady‐state free precession sequences.

Methods and results

Patients with AIS without known atrial fibrillation were prospectively enrolled in the HEart and BRain Interfaces in Acute Ischemic Stroke (HEBRAS) study (NCT 02142413) and underwent CMR at 3 Tesla within 7 days after AIS. Validity of CRT sequences was determined in 50 patients. A total of 229 patients were included in the analysis (mean age 66 years; 35% women; HF 2%). Evaluation of cardiac function was successful in 172 (75%) patients. Median time from stroke onset to CMR was 82 h (interquartile range 56–111) and 54 h (interquartile range 31–78) from cerebral MRI to CMR. Systolic dysfunction was observed in 43 (25%) and diastolic dysfunction in 102 (59%) patients. Diagnostic yield was similar using CRT or segmented cine imaging (no significant difference in left ventricular ejection fraction, myocardial mass, time to peak filling rate, and peak filling rate ratio E/A). Intraobserver and interobserver agreement was high (κ = 0.78–1.0 for all modalities).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular MRI at 3 Tesla is an appropriate method for the evaluation of cardiac function in a selected cohort of patients with AIS. Systolic and diastolic dysfunction is frequent in these patients. CRT imaging allows reliable assessment of systolic and diastolic function.
Novel rate control strategy with landiolol in patients with cardiac dysfunction and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Imamura Teruhiko , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: July 2020

While patients with acute heart failure often have tachycardia with atrial fibrillation, there have been no established medical tools that control tachycardia safely and definitely. Digoxin has been recommended as a first choice in the former guidelines, but it takes time to affect and has a risk of adverse events particularly for those with chronic kidney disease. Landiolol is a recently innovated ultra‐short‐acting beta‐blocker with 251‐fold β1/β2 selectivity, which was originally indicated only to control peri‐operative supra‐ventricular tachyarrhythmia by 2013 in Japan. We aimed to review how to use landiolol in patients with cardiac dysfunction and tachycardia due to atrial fibrillation. We reviewed recently conducted randomized control trials using landiolol, recently updated guidelines, as well as current practical use of landiolol. Japan landiolol vs. Digoxin (J‐Land) study demonstrated that landiolol was more effective to control tachycardia than digoxin in atrial fibrillation patients with left ventricular dysfunction in 2013. Given the result, the revised Japanese heart failure guideline recommends landiolol for rate control during atrial fibrillation in acute heart failure patients as Class IIa with evidence level B. Currently in Japan, landiolol is used for rate control, even in patients with advanced heart failure receiving continuous infusion of inotropes. The clinical use of landiolol in patients with cardiac dysfunction and tachycardia due to atrial fibrillation is increasing. Further studies are warranted to investigate the implication of faster and safer rate control using landiolol.
Comparative study for the production of monoclonal antibodies in single‐use vs stainless steel bioreactors based on product quality and stress factor
Authors: Beck Christian , Werz Silke , Herrmann Alexander , Meiringer Christoph T. A.
Published: July 2020

Single‐use bioreactors (SUB) and stainless steel bioreactors (SSB) differ in their physical properties. This can have an effect on the performed processes. To be able to guarantee flexible planning in a facility, any kind of processes in SUB and SSB must be sufficiently similar. To date, assessments of SUB and SSB have been exclusively specific for one single product. This study shows a general nonproduct‐specific comparison of the production of different types of monoclonal antibodies in different scales of SUBs and SSBs. The study is set up with 72 clinical manufacturing fermentation runs in total by comparing the cell culture performance and quality attributes of these two bioreactor systems. The outcome is that SUBs and SSBs can produce monoclonal antibodies with comparable cell culture performance and product quality. This general comparability paves the way for SUBs to produce new and existing products for (clinical) manufacturing.
A review of industrial wireless communications, challenges, and solutions: A cognitive radio approach
Authors: Oyewobi Stephen S. , Djouani Karim , Kurien Anish Matthew
Published: July 2020

Integral and crucial to performance of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), and specifically industrial wireless sensor network (IWSN) is stable, robust, reliable, and ubiquitous communications system. Though, wired communications system is suitable for industrial communications and is resilient to shadowing and multipath fading effects of industrial‐WSN environments, yet its wireless counterpart is a much preferred industrial communications technology due to reduced cost and high flexibility which it offers in comparison to wired communications. However, overcrowding of the industrial, scientific, and medical band, where IWSN is deployed together with other heterogeneous technologies, as well as resultant scarcity of usable frequency spectrum has restrained exclusive application of wireless technology for industrial communications. Nonetheless, cognitive radio (CR) has ability to increase spectrum utilization efficiency and channel capacity for industrial wireless communications (IWC) through opportunistic/dynamic spectrum access (DSA) technique. In this review article, we examine how DSA can benefit IWC through exploitation of new perspectives of white space definitions in the licensed bands as well as unlicensed bands. While discussing the potential of DSA for IWC, we have considered the unique characteristics of IWC as well as technical challenges and issues imposed by industrial‐WSN. Accordingly, we have suggested and proffered appropriate CR‐based solutions in mitigating some of the challenges where necessary.
Effects of microwave time on quality of grass carp fillets processed through microwave combined with hot‐air drying
Authors: Qin Jiaying , Wang Zhihe , Wang Xichang , Shi Wenzheng
Published: July 2020

In this study, the quality changes of grass carp fillets dried by microwave‐hot‐air combined drying under different microwave time were investigated. The salted fillets were dried at 385 W microwave with different time (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 min), followed by 65℃ hot air to the end. The quality of fillets was evaluated by drying time, color, hardness, rehydration ratio, and taste characteristics (ATP‐related compounds, free amino acids, E‐tongue taste profile, EUC, and TAV). Results showed that grass carp fillets dried by microwave‐hot‐air combined drying had better qualities compared with single hot‐air drying. Besides, microwave time had obvious effects on the quality changes of grass carp fillets, and 6 min was considered as the optimal drying time.
Impact of fractional probability distributions on statistics of hydraulic conductivity, dynamics of groundwater flow and solute transport at a low‐permeability site
Authors: Lu Chengpeng , Qin Wei , Huang Ching‐Sheng , Zhang Yong , Ealotswe Tema Koketso
Published: July 2020

The fractional Brownian motion (fBm) and fractional Lévy motion (fLm) can easily describe the geometry and the statistical structure of hydraulic conductivity (K) for real‐world. However, the fBm and fLm models have not been systematically evaluated when building the K field for a low‐permeability site. In this study, both the fBm and fLm are used to simulate the low‐K field at NingCheGu (NCG), Tianjin, China. Groundwater flow and solute transport are then computed using MODFLOW and MT3DMS, respectively, and the influence of the fBm/fLm models for K on groundwater flow and solute transport is discussed. Results show that the fLm fits better the statistics of the low‐K medium than fBm, and the random logarithmic K (LnK) field generated by fLm is more stable because the resultant LnK field captures more of the measured properties at the field site than that generated by fBm. In contrast, the LnK generated by fBm is more likely to form both high‐K channels and low‐K barriers. The fBm therefore predicts more extreme behaviours in flow and transport, including the preferential flow, low‐concentration blocks and solute retention. The overall groundwater renewal period and solute travel time for the fLm simulation are slightly shorter than those for fBm. The impacts of the fLm and fBm models on the statistics of the resultant LnK fields and the dynamics of groundwater flow and solute transport revealed by this study shed light on the selection and evaluation of the fractional probability distribution models in capturing the K fields for low‐K media.
Understanding the creator's intention helps 24‐ and 26‐month‐olds use picture mediated information as a guide for action
Authors: Szalai Gerda , Egyed Katalin
Published: July 2020

Toddlers show high sensitivity to creator's intention when they interpret pictures. Previous research suggest that toddlers' performance can be facilitated in a picture comprehension task by making available the creator's intention that is, the social origin of picture‐creation. The present study aims to test the generalizability of this facilitative effect in two very young age groups (24‐ and 26‐month‐olds). In order to test how toddlers generalize their knowledge, we introduced a treatment in which the creator was intentionally drawing objects and a completely different test context with a retrieval task. The results suggest that two‐year‐olds can transfer their socially mediated knowledge of pictures to a novel problem solving test situation and contextualize pictures that does not contain any social cues.

Highlights

We aimed to facilitate picture comprehension and to test the generalizability of this facilitative effect in two age groups.

We introduced a treatment in which the creator was intentionally drawing and a different test context with a retrieval task.

Two‐year‐olds can transfer their socially mediated knowledge of pictures to a novel problem solving test situation without any social cues.
Political economy of Islamic banking growth: Does political regime and institutions, governance and political risks matter?
Authors: Asutay Mehmet , Mohd Sidek Noor Zahirah
Published: July 2020

This article explores the political economy of Islamic banking by examining the impact of political regime types, institutional environment, government and political risk on the development of Islamic banking proxied by financing or loan growth in the case of 16 Muslims majority countries with autocratic and democratic regimes over the period of 2000–2013. The performance of Islamic banking loan growth is examined from three different perspectives—political regime and institutions, governance and political risks in both regime settings. Results suggest that loan growth is positive and significant in democratic regimes where political and civil rights are predominant. In addition, loan growths are slower during election years but higher throughout pre‐election year in democratic regimes, suggesting the opportunistic behaviour of incumbent government artificially boosting the economy in preparation for the upcoming election. It is also found that the good quality of public services, policy formulation and implementation, and credibility of government's commitment to realizing the policies are vital in ensuring positive loan growth. The lack of differences in the reaction of loan growth to the governance in democratic and autocratic regimes shows some convergence in the regimes despite having significantly different political perspective. This implies that political commitment of the ruling government is vital to set forth a strong and robust Islamic banking standing regardless of its political standpoint.
Brain delivery of antidotes by polymeric nanoparticles
Authors: Manek Eniko , Petroianu Georg A.
Published: July 2020

Accidental intoxications from environmental pollutants, as well as intentional self‐ and chemical warfare‐related poisonings affect millions of people worldwide each year. While many toxic agents can readily enter the central nervous system (CNS), the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) prevents the brain uptake of most pharmaceuticals. Consequently, poisoning antidotes usually cannot reach their site of action in the CNS in therapeutically relevant concentrations, and thus only provide effective protection to the peripheral nervous system. This limitation can be overcome by encapsulating the antidotes in nanoparticles (NP), which can enhance their CNS accumulation without damaging the integrity of the BBB. Among nanocarriers, polymer‐based drug delivery systems exhibit remarkable benefits, such as bioavailability, cell uptake and tissue retention. Furthermore, due to their capacity to mask unfavorable physicochemical properties of cargo drugs, polymeric NPs were able to improve BBB transport of various pharmaceuticals. However, while polymer NP‐mediated treatment of various pathological brain conditions, such as glioma and Alzheimer's disease were exhaustively studied, the application of polymeric nanocarriers for brain‐targeted delivery of antidote molecules has not been adequately examined. To display its therapeutic potential, we review the state of the art of polymer NP‐assisted CNS delivery of antidotes for various poisonings, including heavy metal and organophosphorus intoxications.