bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a Controllable Redox‐Diffusive Threshold Switching Memristor
Authors: Sun Yiming , Song Cheng , Yin Siqi , Qiao Leilei , Wan Qin , Wang Rui , Zeng Fei , Pan Feng
Published: October 2020

With the rapid development of information technique in the big‐data era, there is an extremely urgent demand for new circuit building blocks, represented by resistive switching memristors with high speed, high‐density integration, and power‐efficiency, to overcome the limitations of electronic device scaling and thus achieve non‐von‐Neumann neuromorphic computing. Redox‐diffusive threshold switching memristors, based on the volatile formation/rupture of metallic conductive filaments, are attracting great attention for many novel applications, ranging from selectors to synaptic and neuronal devices. Here, how to design a proper redox‐diffusive threshold switching memristor is comprehensively introduced, with particular focus on the effect of the device structure and material composition on the device performance. Addressing the simple metal–insulator–metal structure, the switching properties and the underlying mechanisms are discussed along with the order of electrodes and dielectrics. Finally, how the properties determine device applications and how applications require properties is investigated. This work offers potential rules for designing redox‐diffusive threshold switching memristors with regards to structure and composition and promotes the practical implementation of memristor‐based information processing.
An Overview on Noble Metal (Group VIII)‐based Heterogeneous Electrocatalysts for Nitrogen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Chen Qianqian , Zhang Xiaodong , Jin Yuwei , Zhou Xuemei , Yang Zhi , Nie Huagui
Published: October 2020

The typically the Haber‐Bosch process of nitrogen (N2) reduction to ammonia (NH3) production, expends a lot of energy, resulting in severe environmental issues. Electro‐catalytic N2 reduction to NH3 formation by renewable resources is one of the effective ways to settle the issue. However, the electro‐catalytic performances and selectivity of catalysts for electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) are very low. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop more efficient electro‐catalysts to satisfy the needs of practical use. Among the reported catalysts, those based on Group VIII noble metals heterogeneous catalysts display excellent NRR activities and high selectivity because of their good conductivity, rich active surface area, unfilled d‐orbitals, and the abilities with easy adsorption of reactants and stable reaction intermediates. Herein, we will introduce the progress of Group VIII precious metals heterogeneous catalysts applied in the electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction. Then single precious metal electrocatalysts, precious metal alloy electrocatalysts, heterojunction structure electrocatalysts, and precious metal compounds based on the strategies of morphology engineering, crystal facet engineering, defect engineering, heteroatom doping, and synergetic interface engineering will be discussed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of the NH3 synthesis have been put forward. In the review, we will provide helpful direction to the development of effective electro‐catalysts for catalytic N2 reduction reaction.
CuCl2‐Mediated Oxidative Intramolecular α‐Arylation of Ketones with Phenolic Nucleophiles via Oxy‐Allyl Cation Intermediates
Authors: Mochimatsu Takuto , Aota Yusuke , Kano Taichi , Maruoka Keiji
Published: October 2020

α‐Functionalization of ketones in an umpolung fashion can be achieved by nucleophilic addition to the oxy‐allyl cation intermediate. However, applicable carbon nucleophiles are limited to ones with high nucleophilicity. Additionally, introduction of a leaving group to the α‐position of ketone substrates is required beforehand. Herein, we report the CuCl2‐mediated oxidative intramolecular α‐arylation of ketones with less nucleophilic phenolic moieties as carbon nucleophiles via α‐chlorination of ketones and the subsequent generation of the oxy‐allyl cation intermediates, giving ketones with a quaternary carbon center at the α‐position.
Aggregation‐induced Emission Based Fluorogens for Mitochondria‐targeted Tumor Imaging and Theranostics
Authors: Yu Kaiwu , Pan Jiayue , Husamelden Elkawad , Zhang Hong , He Qinggang , Wei Yen , Tian Mei
Published: October 2020

Occurrence and development of cancer are multifactorial and multistep processes which involve complicated cellular signaling pathways. Mitochondria, as the energy producer in cells, play key roles in tumor cell growth and division. Since mitochondria of tumor cells have a more negative membrane potential than those of normal cells, several fluorescent imaging probes have been developed for mitochondria‐targeted imaging and photodynamic therapy. Conventional fluorescent dyes suffer from aggregation‐caused quenching effect, while novel aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) probes are ideal candidates for biomedical applications due to their large stokes shift, strong photo‐bleaching resistance, and high quantum yield. This review aims to introduce the recent advances in the design and application of mitochondria‐targeted AIE probes. The comprehensive review focuses on the structure‐property relationship of these imaging probes, expecting to inspire the development of more practical and versatile AIE fluorogens (AIEgens) as tumor imaging and therapy agents for preclinical and clinical use.
Synthesis of Sulfonylated Heterocycles via Copper‐Catalyzed Heteroaromatization/Sulfonyl Transfer of Propargylic Alcohols
Authors: Chen Xinyi , Shatskiy Andrey , Liu Jian‐Quan , D. Kärkäs Markus , Wang Xiang‐Shan
Published: October 2020

An unprecedented copper‐catalyzed heteroaromatization/sulfonyl transfer of propargylic alcohols with isocyanide has been developed. 3‐Sulfonyl benzofurans and indoles were produced under Cu(I) catalysis in good to high yields. The developed catalytic methodology provides controlled, modular, and facile access to sulfonyl benzoheterocycle scaffolds.
The separation sciences, the front end to proteomics: An historical perspective
Authors: Nice Edouard C.
Published: October 2020

It is now over 25 years since the term proteomics (analysis of the entire protein complement of a cell, tissue, or organism under a specific, defined set of conditions) was originally coined. Since then, the field has advanced rapidly and there are now more than 135,500 publications addressing the field. With current instrumentation it is possible to detect over 10,000 protein forms in a single experiment. The separation of proteins and peptides has been a key component of many of these studies for both sample concentration and enrichment and to reduce the complexity of the samples under analysis, allowing deeper mining of the individual proteomes. In this review, the roles of chromatography, electrophoresis, and other allied techniques in the advancement of the field will be investigated. Key technologies will be presented, and examples given of their application showing how the field has now advanced to a stage where it is enhancing our understanding of the human biology underlying health and disease, and clinical translation, supporting precision/personalized medicine, is now feasible. Clearly the separation sciences have played a key role in many of these advances.
Depression and prostate cancer risk: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Xiong , Kong Jianqiu , Diao Xiayao , Cai Jiahao , Zheng Junjiong , Xie Weibin , Qin Haide , Huang Jian , Lin Tianxin
Published: October 2020

Background

The association between depression and prostate carcinogenesis has been reported in observational studies but the causality from depression on prostate cancer (PCa) remained unknown. We aimed to assess the causal effect of depression on PCa using the two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method.

Methods

Two sets of genetics instruments were used for analysis, derived from publicly available genetic summary data. One was 44 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) robustly associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and the other was two SNPs related with depressive status as ever depressed for a whole week. Inverse‐variance weighted method, weighted median method, MR‐Egger regression, MR Pleiotropy RESidual Sum, and Outlier test were used for MR analyses.

Results

No evidence for an effect of MDD on PCa risk was found in inverse‐variance weighted (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.97‐1.30, p = 0.135), MR‐Egger (OR 0.89, 95% CI: 0.29‐2.68, p = 0.833), and weighted median (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 0.92‐1.27, p = 0.350). Also, no strong evidence for an effect of depressive status on PCa incidence was found using the inverse‐variance weighted method (OR 0.72, 95% CI: 0.35‐1.47, p = 0.364).

Conclusions

The large MR analysis indicated that depression may not be causally associated with a risk of PCa.
Cajuputones A–C, β‐Triketone Flavanone Hybrids from the Branches and Leaves of Melaleuca cajuputi
Authors: Xu Wen‐Jun , Xie Xin , Wu Lin , Tian Xiao‐Meng , Wang Cheng‐Cheng , Kong Ling‐Yi , Luo Jun
Published: October 2020

Three new β‐triketone flavanone hybrids, cajuputones A–C were obtained from Melaleuca cajuputi (the Australian ‘tea tree’). The structures of cajuputones A–C were elucidated by 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy and HR‐ESI‐MS analyses; and their absolute configurations were established by electric circular dichroism (ECD) calculations using TDDFT method. Structurally, cajuputones A–C feature a rare 6/6/6/6 oxatetracyclic ring system fused between an acylphloroglucinol‐derived β‐triketone and a pinocembrin or strobopinin moiety via an angle‐type pyran‐like motif. DFT‐based conformational optimization in chloroform explained the similarity of the 1D NMR data of cajuputones B and C (C‐2 epimers).
Anatomical Investigation and GC/MS Analysis of ‘Coco de Mer’,Lodoicea maldivica(Arecaceae)
Authors: Giuliani Claudia , Pieraccini Giuseppe , Santilli Carolina , Tani Corrado , Bottoni Martina , Schiff Silvia , Fico Gelsomina , Papini Alessio , Falsini Sara
Published: October 2020

Lodoicea maldivica(J.F.Gmel.) Pers. (Arecaceae), ‘Coco de Mer’, is a palm, growing as endemic in the Seychelles islands. Its fruit weighs up to 20 kg and is characterized by a fleshy and fibrous envelope surrounding the nutlike portion. The present work combines a morpho‐anatomical and a phytochemical analysis of the fruit exocarp and mesocarp.

The exocarp is composed by a layer of palisade cells. The mesocarp is characterized by vascular bundles and by sclereids. In the aerenchyma, the internal zone of the mesocarp, cells aggregates were positive to phenols, while idioblasts were positive to terpenes.

We performed a GC/MS analysis with a semi‐quantitative relative amount calculation of the recorded compounds.

The GC/MS essential oil profile revealed the dominance of acyclic sesquiterpenoids (53.95 %), followed by bicyclic sesquiterpenoids (31.69 %), monoterpenes (11.89 %) and monocyclic sesquiterpenoids (2.44 %).

The terpenes detected in higher amounts,β‐caryophyllene and bicyclogermacrene, are known for activity against insect larvae, but have been proposed as antiviral candidates against SARS‐CoV‐2. The third compound in amount, aromadendrene, is active against bacteria and, again, known to possess insecticidal properties.
SARS‐CoV2 disease seen through the prism of acutely decompensated chronic kidney disease and ischemic stroke: What lesson we have learned from using prophylaxis therapy of vascular thromboembolism?
Authors: Hazim Asmaa , Aasfara Jehanne , Slassi Ilham , Canaud Bernard , Haoudar Amal , Naitlhou Abdelhamid , El Kettani Chafik
Published: October 2020

Our case underlines the tight management of antithrombotic therapy in the context of acutely decompensated chronic kidney disease, ischemic stroke, and SARS‐CoV2 infection, the development of stroke as a SARS‐CoV2 complication increase the chances of adverse outcomes that may be mitigated by a rapid recognition and institution of available treatments.
Peripheral neuropathy in severe COVID‐19 resolved with therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Faqihi Fahad , Alharthy Abdulrahman , Memish Ziad A. , Kutsogiannis Demetrios J. , Brindley Peter G. , Karakitsos Dimitrios
Published: October 2020

Peripheral neuropathies including Guillain‐Barré syndrome may be linked to life‐threatening COVID‐19. Plasma exchange is a safe rescue therapy in severe COVID‐19 with associated neurological manifestations and thromboinflammation.
Cross metathesis with acrylates: N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐ versus cyclic alkyl amino carbene (CAAC)‐based ruthenium catalysts, an unanticipated influence of the carbene type on efficiency and selectivity of the reaction
Authors: Kaczanowska Katarzyna , Trzaskowski Bartosz , Peszczyńska Aleksandra , Tracz Andrzej , Gawin Rafał , Olszewski Tomasz K. , Skowerski Krzysztof
Published: October 2020

Olefin metathesis has been widely explored as a handle for chemical diversification, a feature critical across chemical sectors. Cross metathesis (CM) with acrylic acid derivatives is an example of important but, due to the low catalyst's efficiency, industrially non‐utilized transformation. Here we report on systematic evaluation of ruthenium‐based catalysts bearing N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) or cyclic alkyl amino carbene (CAAC) ligands in cross metathesis with methyl acrylate. Dramatic influence of the carbene type on the reaction's efficiency and selectivity has been found. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the kinetic selectivity is the main factor differentiating NHC‐ and CAAC‐based ruthenium complexes. Productive turnover number (TON) of 49 900 at 10 ppm loading of nitro‐substituted Hoveyda‐Grubbs complex (nitro‐Grela catalyst) was obtained in the studied reaction, representing the highest efficiency reported to date for this transformation. High efficiency and selectivity of nitro‐Grela catalyst was then utilized in cross metathesis of trans‐anethole with 2‐ethylhexyl acrylate to efficiently produce octyl methoxycinnamate (86 % yield), an antioxidant used in sunscreen formulations.
Zr‐MOF‐808 as Catalyst for Amide Esterification
Authors: Villoria‐del‐Álamo Beatriz , Rojas‐Buzo Sergio , García‐García Pilar , Corma Avelino
Published: October 2020

In this work, zirconium‐based metal–organic framework Zr‐MOF‐808‐P has been found to be an efficient and versatile catalyst for amide esterification. Comparing with previously reported homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts, Zr‐MOF‐808‐P can promote the reaction for a wide range of primary, secondary and tertiary amides with n‐butanol as nucleophilic agent. Different alcohols have been employed in amide esterification with quantitative yields. Moreover, the catalyst acts as a heterogeneous catalyst and could be reused for at least five consecutive cycles. The amide esterification mechanism has been studied on the Zr‐MOF‐808 at molecular level by in situ FTIR spectroscopic technique and kinetic study.
Orbital cellulitis secondary to giant sino‐orbital osteoma: A case report
Authors: Bagheri Abbas , Feizi Mohadeseh , Jafari Reza , Kanavi Mozhgan R. , Raad Nasim
Published: October 2020

Background

Although osteoma is a common benign tumor of the paranasal sinuses, its orbital extension is not common. Secondary orbital cellulitis has rarely been reported in association with sino‐orbital osteoma.

Case

A 30‐year‐old woman presented with left side proptosis, orbital pain and inflammation. Orbital CT scan showed a well‐defined giant osteoma in the superonasal part of the left orbit originating from the left ethmoidal sinus associated with opacity of the ipsilateral ethmoidal sinus and infiltration of orbital soft tissue. After treatment by systemic antibiotics, osteoma was resected with combined external and endoscopic surgery and the patient recovered uneventfully.

Conclusion

Sino‐orbital osteoma may manifest primarily as orbital cellulitis and needs early surgical intervention.
Conveying colour research to design practice: Design and evaluation of aweb‐basedcolour tool
Authors: Won Seahwa
Published: October 2020

This study presents a practice‐based research project to develop a colour tool prototype intended to convey colour research to design practice. Both the prototype design and its evaluation by experts are described. A web‐based prototype for a colour tool was cocreated with eight experienced designers and brand managers. The developed prototype is a visual and interactive website that predominantly provides research data on colour meanings in different product categories and cultures. In the evaluation study, an e‐mail survey of experts was conducted to assess the prototype. A senior manager at a leading US colour company and seven academics in the fields of colour, branding and graphic design participated in the survey. As for the results, the prototype generally was deemed useful for design practice. The outcome also emphasized that the prototype has strong potential to play a significant role in providing colour insights and supporting colour judgments, strategy and inspiration. However, the experts also raised several issues concerning the data's scope, an insufficient number of prototype web pages, product category choices, legal issues, data presentation method, data source clarity, and data management. The study's findings provide insight into how colour research can be delivered to design practice using a colour tool.
Modeling spatial trends and enhancing genetic selection: An approach to soybean seed composition breeding
Authors: Bernardeli Arthur , Rocha João Romero Amaral Santos de Carvalho , Borém Aluízio , Lorenzoni Rodrigo , Aguiar Rafael , Silva Jéssica Nayara Basílio , Bueno Rafael Delmond , Alves Rodrigo Silva , Jarquin Diego , Ribeiro Cleberson , Lamas Costa Maximiller Dal‐Bianco
Published: October 2020

Spatial variation is a recurrent issue in field trials and can cause obstacles in terms of genetic selection. Analyses that account for spatial variation within location can lead breeders to predict genetic values accurately across locations in multi‐environment trials (METs). The present study aims to fit spatial models for analyzing soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed composition traits using a two‐stage analysis pipeline and to assess its efficiency relative to a single‐stage analysis setting. Seed protein content (SPC), seed oil content (SOC), and seed storage protein content (SSP) data were collected from 283 soybean genotypes tested in four environments (C1, C2, V1, and V2). In Stage 1 of the two‐stage analysis, a randomized complete block (RCB) design model as well as four two‐dimensional first‐order (AR1 ⊗ AR1) spatial models were fit in each dataset to determine the most suitable model for genetic prediction. Predicted genetic values were used as input data for Stage 2. The most used spatial model [5] in Stage 1 of this study had accommodated local and global residuals. The autocorrelation estimates depicted spatial trends, especially in terms of rows, while column autocorrelation coefficients were low for C1 and C2 because of the limited number of blocks and their short length. Broad‐sense heritability, mean accuracy, and selection gains were greater for all traits in the two‐stage analysis than in the single‐stage analysis. The two‐stage analysis leveraged the spatial model fitting in the Stage 1 and proved to be advantageous for soybean seed composition breeding.
Phytochemical conjugation as a potential semisynthetic approach toward reactive and reuse of obsolete sulfonamides against pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Swain Shasank S. , Paidesetty Sudhir K. , Padhy Rabindra N.
Published: October 2020

The emergence and reemergence of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria and mycobacteria in community and hospital periphery have directly enhanced the hospitalization costs, morbidity and mortality, globally. The appearance of MDR pathogens, the currently used antibiotics, remains insufficient, and the development of potent antibacterial(s) is merely slow. Thus, the development of active antibacterials is the call of the day. The sulfonamides class of antibacterials was the most successful synthesized drug in the 19th century. Mechanically, sulfonamides were targeting bacterial folic acid biosynthesis and today, those are obsolete or clinically inactive. Nevertheless, the magic sulfonamide pharmacophore has been used continuously in several mainstream antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiviral drugs. Concomitantly, thousands of phytochemicals with antimicrobial potencies have been recorded and were commanded as alternate antibacterials toward control of MDR pathogens. However, none/very few isolated phytochemicals have gone up to the pure‐drug stage due to the lack of the desired drug‐likeness values and the required pharmacokinetic properties. Thus, chemical modification of parent drug remains as the versatile approach in antibacterial drug development. Improvement of clinically inactive sulfa drugs with suitable phytochemicals to develop active, low‐toxic drug molecules followed by medicinal chemistry could be prudent. This review highlights such “sulfonamide‐phytochemical” hybrid drug development research works for utilizing inactive sulfonamides and phytochemicals; the ingenious cost‐effective and resource‐saving hybrid drug concept could be a new trend in current antibacterial drug discovery to reactive the obsolete antibacterials.
Non‐severe aortic regurgitation increases short‐term mortality in acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Abdurashidova Tamila , Monney Pierre , Tzimas Georgios , Soborun Nisha , Regamey Julien , Daux Aurelien , Barras Nicolas , Kirsch Matthias , Müller Martin , Hullin Roger
Published: October 2020

Aims

Mild or moderate aortic regurgitation (AR) has only little effect on cardiovascular outcome in people with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (EF); therefore, it is not perceived as a major clinical problem. This study investigates whether mild or moderate AR is associated with increased short‐term mortality in patients hospitalized for treatment of acute heart failure (AHF) and whether mild or moderate AR impacts differently on short‐term mortality in AHF patients with reduced EF (AHFrEF), mid‐range EF (AHFmrEF), or preserved EF (AHFpEF).

Methods and results

This mono‐centric study included 505 consecutive adult patients hospitalized for de novo or worsening chronic HF not related to acute ischaemia or severe valvular pathology in the echocardiogram at index hospitalization. Cox regression analysis studied the impact of AR on all‐cause mortality (ACM) over the 150 days' study period. Mild or moderate AR was associated with increased ACM (HR 1.75 [95% CI: 1.1–2.7]; P = 0.009). The prevalence of mild or moderate AR in the study population was 42% and not significantly different between AHFpEF (n = 227), AHFmrEF (n = 86), and AHFrEF (n = 192) study participants (37.9% vs. 50.0% vs. 42.7%; P = 0.144). In AHFpEF patients, the age‐adjusted hazard for ACM was increased in patients with AR compared with patients without AR (HR 2.17 [95% CI: 1.1–4.2]; P = 0.002). The age‐adjusted hazard for ACM was increased by a trend in AHFmrEF with AR (HR 7.11, [95% CI: 0.9–57.8]; P = 0.067) and not different between the AHFrEF groups (HR 0.95 [95% CI: 0.5–1.8]; P = 0.875).

Conclusions

Mild or moderate AR increased ACM only in AHFpEF patients, highlighting a distinct clinical relevance.
Prediction of chronic heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a general population: the Tromsø study
Authors: Melbye Hasse , Stylidis Michael , Solis Juan Carlos Aviles , Averina Maria , Schirmer Henrik
Published: October 2020

Aims

Heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are main causes of dyspnoea, and echocardiography and spirometry are essential investigations for these diagnoses. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of HF and COPD in a general population, also how the diseases may be identified, and to what extent their clinical characteristics differ.

Methods and results

In the seventh survey of Tromsø study (2015–16), subjects aged 40 years or more were examined with echocardiography, spirometry, lung sound recordings, questionnaires, including the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) questionnaire on dyspnoea, and N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide analysis. A diagnosis of HF (HF with reduced ejection fraction, HF with mid‐range ejection fraction, or HF with preserved ejection fraction) or COPD was established according to current guidelines. Predictors of HF and COPD were evaluated by logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. A total of 7110 participants could be evaluated for COPD, 1624 for HF, and 1538 for both diseases. Age‐standardized prevalence of HF was 6.8% for women and 6.1% for men; the respective figures for COPD were 5.2% and 5.1%. Among the 1538 evaluated for both diseases, 139 subjects fulfilled the HF criteria, but only 17.1% reported to have the disease. Of those fulfilling the COPD criteria, 31.6% reported to have the disease. Shortness of breath at exertion was a frequent finding in HF; 59% of those with mMRC ≥2 had HF, while such shortness of breath was found in 24% among those with COPD. Reporting mMRC ≥2 had an odds ratio for HF of 19.5 (95% confidence interval 11.3–33.7), whereas the odds ratio for COPD was 6.3 (95% confidence interval 3.5–11.6). Current smoking was the strongest predictor of COPD but did not predict HF. Basal inspiratory crackles were significant predictors of HF in multivariable analysis. Among the subtypes of HF, an age <70 years was most frequently found in HF with reduced ejection fraction, in 51.7%. Clinical scores based on the predictive value in multivariable analysis of history, symptoms, and signs predicted HF and COPD with areas under the curve of 0.833 and 0.829, respectively.

Conclusions

Study participants with HF and COPD were in most cases not aware of their condition. In general practice, when an elderly patient present with shortness of breath, both diseases should be considered. Previous cardiovascular disease points at HF, while a history of smoking points at COPD. The threshold should be low for ordering echocardiography or spirometry for verifying the suspected cause of dyspnoea.
Inertial microfluidics: Recent advances
Authors: Huang Di , Man Jiaxiang , Jiang Di , Zhao Jiyun , Xiang Nan
Published: October 2020

Inertial microfluidics has attracted significant attentions in last decade due to its superior advantages of high throughput, label‐ and external field‐free operation, simplicity, and low cost. A wide variety of channel geometry designs were demonstrated for focusing, concentrating, isolating, or separating of various bioparticles such as blood components, circulating tumor cells, bacteria, and microalgae. In this review, we first briefly introduce the physics of inertial migration and Dean flow for allowing the readers with diverse backgrounds to have a better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of inertial microfluidics. Then, we present a comprehensive review of the recent advances and applications of inertial microfluidic devices according to different channel geometries ranging from straight channels, curved channels to contraction‐expansion‐array channels. Finally, the challenges and future perspective of inertial microfluidics are discussed. Owing to its superior benefit for particle manipulation, the inertial microfluidics will play a more important role in biology and medicine applications.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Surface Water Near US Air Force Bases: Prioritizing Individual Chemicals and Mixtures for Toxicity Testing and Risk Assessment
Authors: East Andrew , Anderson Richard H. , Salice Christopher J.
Published: October 2020

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large class of persistent chemicals used for decades in industrial and commercial applications. A key challenge with regard to estimating potential risk to ecological (and human) receptors associated with PFAS exposure lies in the fact that there are many different PFAS compounds and several to many can co-occur in any given environmental sample. We applied a data science approach to characterize and prioritize PFAS and PFAS mixtures from a large dataset of PFAS measurements in surface waters associated with US Air Force Installations with a history of the use of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs). Several iterations of stakeholder feedback culminated in a few main points that advanced our understanding of a complex dataset and the larger ecotoxicological problem. First, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was often a dominant PFAS in a given surface water sample, frequently followed by perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS). Second, a 4-chemical mixture generally accounted for >80% of the sum of all routinely reported PFAS in a sample, and the most representative 4-chemical mixture was composed of PFOS, PFHxS, perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). We suggest that these results demonstrate the utility of formalized data science analysis and assessment frameworks to address complex ecotoxicological problems. Specifically, our example dataset results can be used to provide perspective on toxicity testing, ecological risk assessments, and field studies of PFAS in and around AFFF-impacted sites. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:871–882. © 2020 SETAC

Abstract

A data science approach was used to combine information of PFAS in surface waters to identify and prioritize individual PFAS and PFAS mixtures. The figures convey the conceptual approach, examples of iterative analysis products and a final result. A key finding was the that a four chemical mixture accounted for a considerable proportion of the total PFAS and that PFOS and PFHxS occurred very commonly. For abbreviations, see Figure 3 legend.
Identifying and Managing Aqueous Film-Forming Foam-Derived Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in the Environment
Authors: Leeson Andrea , Thompson Timothy , Stroo Hans F. , Anderson Richard H. , Speicher Jason , Mills Marc A. , Willey Janice , Coyle Charles , Ghosh Rajat , Lebrón Carmen , Patton Cara
Published: October 2020

The use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) has resulted in the widespread occurrence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater, drinking water, soils, sediments, and receiving waters throughout the United States and other countries. We present the research and development efforts to date by the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) to measure PFAS in the environment, characterize AFFF-associated sources of PFAS, understand PFAS fate and behavior in the environment, assess the risk to ecological receptors, develop in situ and ex situ treatment technologies for groundwater, treat soils and investigation-derived wastes, and examine the ecotoxicity of PFAS-free fire suppression formulations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:24–36. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Biomarker Responses of the Clam Ruditapes decussatus Exposed to a Complex Mixture of Environmental Stressors under the Influence of an Urban Wastewater-Treatment Plant
Authors: Silva Sofia , Cravo Alexandra , Ferreira Cristina , Correia Cátia , Almeida Cristina M.M.
Published: October 2020

To evaluate the potential impact of an urban wastewater-treatment plant on Ria Formosa coastal lagoon, a sentinel species, the clam Ruditapes decussatus, was exposed along a gradient of the effluent's dispersal for 1 mo. Three exposure sites were selected to study the responses of 3 biomarkers: electron transport system, acetylcholinesterase, and lipid peroxidation. As complementary data, morphometric measurements, condition index, and lipid and protein content were considered together with in situ physicochemical characterization of the sites (temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen). Electron transport system activity levels were between 35.7 and 50.5 nmol O2/min g protein, acetylcholinesterase activity levels ranged from 2.6 to 3.8 nmol/min g protein, and lipid peroxidation ranged from 174.7 to 246.4 nmol malondialdehyde/g protein. The exposure sites shaped the response not only of biomarkers but also of “health” parameters (protein, lipids, and condition index). Lipid peroxidation was the most responsive biomarker also associated with electron transport system, especially at the closest site to the urban wastewater-treatment plant. Because of the presence of complex mixtures of contaminants in urban effluents, biomarker responses can provide valuable information in environmental assessment. However, it is vital to identify all biological and ecological factors induced by the natural life cycle of clams. Abiotic factors can mask or overlap the response of biomarkers and should be considered in a multibiomarker approach. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:272–283. © 2020 SETAC
Filling the trust gap of food safety in food trade between the EU and China: An interconnected conceptual traceability framework based on blockchain
Authors: Qian Jianping , Wu Wenbin , Yu Qiangyi , Ruiz‐Garcia Luis , Xiang Yang , Jiang Li , Shi Yun , Duan Yulin , Yang Peng
Published: October 2020

Global food trade has become an increasingly crucial element for feeding the world's population. Enhancing bilateral or multilateral trust in food safety in international food trade is not only important for promoting the sustainable development of trade but is also beneficial for cooperation when facing a global food crisis. However, highly credible traceability systems (TSs) for the cross‐border movement of food are still absent in many countries and regions. Blockchain is regarded as a promising technology that can help build trust for transparency and security issues. In this paper, an interconnected conceptual traceability framework based on blockchain is proposed in order to increase trust in food safety during food trade. Taking the food trade between China and the European Union as an example, a conceptual framework is designed in order to take full advantage of existing TSs in these two locations, and the features of logistical flow, data flow, and blockchain flow are analyzed. Considering the data capacity and data privacy level, a hybrid data storage method combining on‐chain and off‐chain is adopted. Smart contracts according to the features of cross‐border food trade—including the recording of exportation data, exporter inspection data, shipment data, importer inspection data, importation data, and tracing queries—are packaged and deployed to a blockchain network. An effective operation mechanism involving the distribution of related rights for different roles is presented. The blockchain‐based TS framework has the advantages of enhancing bilateral trust in cross‐border food trade, providing a flexible and intelligent technical framework, and having effective operability. Future challenges, such as data security, special smart contracts, and consensus mechanisms, and interoperability with other systems, are discussed.
In vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activity of essential oils encapsulated in gelatin‐pectin particles against sugar, lipid and protein oxidation and amylase and glucosidase activity
Authors: Siahbalaei Roghayeh , Kavoosi Gholamreza , Shakeri Raheleh
Published: October 2020

The in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Oliveria decumbens, Thymus kotschyanus, Trachyspermum ammi, and Zataria multiflora essential oils incorporated into gelatin‐pectin composite were investigated. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry characterization revealed that thymol (1.2%–86.4%), carvacrol (3.2%–52.4%), gamma‐terpinene (0.0%–12.7%), para‐cymene (3.2%–5.2%), geraniol (0.0%–14.5%), and spathulenol (0.0%–13.6%) are the major constituents of the essential oils. Gelatin‐pectin composite incorporated with the essential oils exhibited acidic pH (2.40–3.04), low conductivity (265–278 µS/cm), low surface tension (19.0–23.5 mN/m), low Newtonian viscosity (23.7–28.5 mPa.s), negative zeta‐potential (14.2–16.9 mV), and nanoscale particle size (313–336 nm). These rheological properties result in the production of globular gelatin‐pectin nanoparticles with a size range of 500–700 nm. The FTIR spectra of gelatin‐pectin and gelatin‐pectin‐essential oils to some extent were similar, suggesting the noncovalent interactions between them. Gelatin‐pectin composite incorporated with the essential oils displayed antiglucose oxidation (130–150 µg/ml) antilipid peroxidation (120–130 µg/ml), antiprotein oxidation (150–168 µg/ml), and antiprotein glycation (145–170 µg/ml) as well as antiamylase (216–230 µg/ml), and antiglucosidase (212–238 µg/ml) activity. The essential oils strongly improved the antioxidant capacity of the gelatin‐pectin composite so strongly which can be recommended as a natural compound for oxidative stress management.
Sedimentology and stratigraphy sequence of the north of Saudi Arabia: Implications for the evolution of the Neo‐Tethys in the Late Cretaceous
Authors: Zhang Yunlong , Li Ziying , Qin Mingkuan , Bao Zhidong , Li Zhixing , Yi Longsheng , Li Guochen
Published: October 2020

The Late Cretaceous sediments on the margin of the Arabia Plate contain information of tectonics and eustatic fluctuation of the Neo‐Tethys Ocean. The sedimentary association in the north of Saudi Arabia, combined with that from Jordan, Israel, and Egypt, revealed three fourth‐order sedimentary sequences that occurred in the Late Cretaceous and Palaeogene. The evolution of the sequences indicates that a most extensive transgression occurred in the south of Neo‐Tethys Ocean during that time, which deposited phosphorite and carbonate overlying the Devonian sandstone directly. The occurrence of thin and interbedded lithological layers implies vigorous fluctuation of the sea‐level during the transgression. We argue that the transgression is the results of tectonic activities and eustatic fluctuation, but may be closely controlled by the regional subduction and Neo‐Tethys collision.
The effectiveness of electronic health record promotion for healthcare providers in the United States since the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act: An empirical investigation
Authors: Yuan Bocong , Li Jiannan , Wu Peiguan
Published: October 2020

The US Government has embarked on the largest initiative to date to encourage widespread use of electronic health records (EHRs). Up to now, it is not yet clear that what the actual effectiveness of EHR promotion is like since the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act. As a response, this study analyzes the EHR conversion at the primary stage (sign‐up EHR→go‐live EHR) and the advanced stage (go‐live EHR→meaningful use of EHR) for different types of healthcare providers in the United States. With the data from the Office of National Coordinator for Health Information Technology—Regional Extension Centers Program, this study finds that healthcare providers have achieved progress in the EHR conversion at both the primary and advanced stage. However, the levels of progress made at different stages of EHR conversion vary for different providers. For rural and underserved healthcare settings, the progress made at the advanced stage is smaller than that at the primary stage, contrary to the case for other kinds of providers. Moreover, although the greater progress has been made at the advanced stage for some kinds of providers, the overall level of EHR conversion for various healthcare providers is far greater at the primary stage than at the advanced stage.
Addiction to inflation or to fiscal deficits? The Chilean experience of 1970s
Authors: Caputo Rodrigo
Published: October 2020

Latin America is a region with very high income inequality and low social mobility. It has experienced several stagnation episodes and was plagued, from the mid‐1970s to the early 2000s, by hyperinflation. This phenomenon took place at different moments in time and with varying intensity. Using a novel data set for Chile, we identify the main drivers of fiscal reforms and seigniorage shocks that were crucial for inflation dynamics. We conclude that inflation, after the military coup that deposed Allende's socialist government, was used to finance defence spending non‐explicitly considered in the official figures. We interpret these fiscal expenditures as seigniorage shocks. Hence, the Chilean economy was addicted to fiscal deficits for most of the 1970s. Addiction to inflation, in the form of destabilizing inflation expectations that evolved independently of the level of seignorage, was not relevant.
How can mobile phone usage affect micro and small enterprises' performance in Saudi Arabia?
Authors: Alharthi Majed , Islam Md. Mazharul
Published: October 2020

The use of mobile phones for business purposes has revolutionized various sub‐sectors of the economy, including micro and small enterprises in both Saudi Arabia, the context of this study, and other countries. This study uncovers how the use of mobile phones has affected the performance of micro and small enterprises in both monetary and nonmonetary terms. Using a survey instrument, data were collected from 300 micro and small enterprise owners across Saudi Arabia and then analyzed using SmartPLS. Among the major findings, we suggest that no direct correlation exists between mobile phone usage and micro and small enterprises' monetary performance. However, mobile phones were found to have a significant influence on the nonmonetary performance of micro and small enterprises. This study contributes to the literature on technology adoption and economic performance by providing further evidence of the relationship between mobile phones and micro and small enterprises' performance. These findings can help micro and small enterprise owners, telecommunications companies, policymakers in related authorities (such as the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology and the Ministry of Commerce) and academics to make informed decisions. Conclusions and recommendations are drawn, and priorities are proposed for continuing research.
Impact of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus on Skeletal Integrity and Strength in Adolescents as Assessed by HRpQCT
Authors: Devaraja Janani , Jacques Richard , Paggiosi Margaret , Clark Carolyn , Dimitri Paul
Published: October 2020

Adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are at risk of premature osteoporosis and fractures. The onset of T1DM typically starts during childhood and adolescence. Thus, the effects of DM on the skeleton may be established during this period. Studies in children with T1DM primarily use DXA with conflicting results. We present the first study in adolescents assessing the impact of T1DM on skeletal microstructure and strength using HRpQCT. We recruited 22 patients aged 12 to 16 years with T1DM who were matched by age, gender, and pubertal stage with healthy controls. Paired t tests were applied to assess differences in cortical and trabecular microarchitecture measurements from HRpQCT, and skeletal strength from HRpQCT‐derived microfinite element analysis. Subtotal body, lumbar, and pelvic parameters were assessed using DXA. There was no significant difference in subtotal body, lumbar spine, and pelvic BMD between T1DM and control pairs. However, tibial trabecular thickness was lower (−0.005 mm; 95% CI, −0.01 to −0.001; p = 0.029) and trabecular loading was lower at the distal radius (ratio of the load taken by the trabecular bone in relation to the total load at the distal end (Tb.F/TF) distal: −6.2; 95% CI, −12.4 to −0.03; p = 0.049), and distal and proximal tibia (Tb.F/TF distal: −5.2, 95% CI, −9.2 to −1.2; p = 0.013; and Tb.F/TF proximal: −5.0, 95% CI, −9.8 to −0.1; p = 0.047) in T1DM patients. A subanalysis of radial data of participants with duration of T1DM of at least 2 years and their matched controls demonstrated a reduced trabecular bone number (−0.15, 95% CI, −0.26 to −0.04; p = 0.012), increased trabecular separation (0.041 mm, 95% CI, 0.009–0.072; p = 0.015), an increased trabecular inhomogeneity (0.018, 95% CI, 0.003–0.034; p = 0.021). Regression models demonstrated a reduction in tibial stiffness (−0.877 kN/mm; p = 0.03) and tibial failure load (−0.044 kN; p = 0.03) with higher HbA1C. Thus, in adolescents with T1DM, detrimental changes are seen in tibial and radial microarchitecture and tibial and radial strength before changes in DXA occur and may result from poor diabetic control. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Functional Assessment of Coding and Regulatory Variants From the DKK1 Locus
Authors: Martínez‐Gil Núria , Roca‐Ayats Neus , Atalay Nurgül , Pineda‐Moncusí Marta , Garcia‐Giralt Natàlia , Van Hul Wim , Boudin Eveline , Ovejero Diana , Mellibovsky Leonardo , Nogués Xavier , Díez‐Pérez Adolfo , Grinberg Daniel , Balcells Susanna
Published: October 2020

The DKK1 gene encodes an extracellular inhibitor of the Wnt pathway with an important role in bone tissue development, bone homeostasis, and different critical aspects of bone biology. Several BMD genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) have consistently found association with SNPs in the DKK1 genomic region. For these reasons, it is important to assess the functionality of coding and regulatory variants in the gene. Here, we have studied the functionality of putative regulatory variants, previously found associated with BMD in different studies by others and ourselves, and also six missense variants present in the general population. Using a Wnt‐pathway‐specific luciferase reporter assay, we have determined that the variants p.Ala41Thr, p.Tyr74Phe, p.Arg120Leu, and p.Ser157Ile display a reduced DKK1 inhibitory capacity as compared with WT. This result agrees with the high‐bone‐mass (HBM) phenotype of two women from our cohort who carried mutations p.Tyr74Phe or p.Arg120Leu. On the other hand, by means of a circularized chromosome conformation capture‐ (4C‐) sequencing experiment, we have detected that the region containing 24 BMD‐GWA variants, located 350‐kb downstream of DKK1, interacts both with DKK1 and the LNCAROD (LncRNA‐activating regulator of DKK1, AKA LINC0148) in osteoblastic cells. In conclusion, we have shown that some rare coding variants are partial loss‐of‐function mutations that may lead to a HBM phenotype, whereas the common SNPs associated with BMD in GWASs belong to a putative long‐range regulatory region, through a yet unknown mechanism involving LNCAROD. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Mps1 controls spindle assembly, SAC, and DNA repair in the first cleavage of mouse early embryos
Authors: Ju Jia‐Qian , Li Xiao‐Han , Pan Meng‐Hao , Xu Yi , Xu Yao , Sun Ming‐Hong , Sun Shao‐Chen
Published: October 2020

Monopolar spindle‐1 (Mps1) is a critical interphase regulator that also involves into the spindle assembly checkpoint for the cell cycle control in both mitosis and meiosis. However, the functions of Mps1 during mouse early embryo development is still unclear. In this study, we reported the important roles of Mps1 in the first cleavage of mouse embryos. Our data indicated that the loss of Mps1 activity caused precocious cleavage of zygotes to 2‐cell embryos; however, prolonged culture disturbed the early embryo development to the blastocyst. We found that the spindle organization was disrupted after Mps1 inhibition, and the chromosomes were misaligned in the first cleavage. Moreover, the kinetochore–microtubule attachment was lost and Aurora B failed to accumulate to the kinetochores, indicating that the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) was activated. Furthermore, the inhibition of Mps1 activity resulted in an increase of DNA damage, which further induced oxidative stress, showing with positive γ‐H2A.X signal and increased reactive oxygen species level. Ultimately, irreparable DNA damage and oxidative stress‐activated apoptosis and autophagy, which was confirmed by the positive Annexin‐V signal and increased autophagosomes. Taken together, our data indicated that Mps1 played important roles in the control of SAC and DNA repair during mouse early embryo development.