bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Hierarchical Porosity Via Manipulating Chemical and Microstructural Complexities in High‐Entropy Alloys for Efficient Water Electrolysis
Authors: Li Rui , Liu Xiongjun , Liu Weihong , Li Zhibin , Chan K. C. , Lu Zhaoping
Published: February 2022

Achieving a porous architecture with multiple‐length scales and utilizing the synergetic effects of multicomponent chemicals bring up new opportunities for further improving the electrocatalytic performance of nanocatalysts. Herein, the synthesis of a self‐supported hierarchical porous electrocatalyst based on a high‐entropy alloy (HEA) containing multiple transitional metals via physical metallurgy and dealloying strategies is reported. Microscale phase separation and nanoscale spinodal decomposition are modulated in a highly concentrated FeCoNiCu HEA, which makes it possible to obtain a porous structure with different length scales, i.e., relatively large porous channels formed by removing one separated phase and ultrafine mesopores obtained from leaching out one decomposition phase. The resultant hierarchical porous HEA exhibits superior water splitting performance, which takes full advantage of the enlarged surface area offered by the bi‐continuous mesoporous structure with the exceptional intrinsic reactivity originating from the synergetic electronic effects of the different components in alloying. Moreover, the microscale porous structure plays an important role in the significantly improved mass transportation, as well as the durability during electrocatalysis. This effective strategy that simultaneously utilizes the chemical and microstructural advantages of HEAs opens up a new avenue for developing HEA‐based, high‐performance porous electrocatalysts for various energy conversion/store applications.
Culturing live foods for fish larviculture using non‐microalgal diet: The role of waste‐generated bacteria and selected commercial probiotics—A review
Authors: Kagali Robert Nesta , Ogello Erick Ochieng , Kiama Catherine Wachera , Kim Hee‐Jin , Wullur Stenly , Sakakura Yoshitaka , Hagiwara Atsushi
Published: February 2022

Condensed suspension of live microalga cells, for example, Chlorella vulgaris, Nannochloropsis oculata and Tetraselmis tetrathele is often utilized as diets for mass production of live food resources, that is, rotifers, copepods, cladocerans and Artemia. These live food resources are essential for fish larviculture in hatcheries. However, the production of sufficient microalgae is costly, laborious and fragile, and thus require cost‐effective and stable production technologies, especially for the emerging countries. Studies have shown that locally available biowastes such as fish wastes and chicken manure provide substrates for generating billions of heterotrophic bacterial cells and microparticles as well as growth hormones, which can be used in propagating live food resources. The fish wastes contain essential nutrients that are important for the growth of both live foods and fish larvae. With single feeding of fish wastes, the culture condition of live foods may become unstable, and thus bacterial isolates and selected probiotics, for example, genus Pseudomonas, Moraxella and Micrococcus are needed to stabilize the culture conditions to increase reproduction capacity of the cultured live foods. This article consolidates the results and conclusions of our recent studies on the culture of live food resources, that is, Proales similis de Beauchamp, Brachionus rotundiformis Tschugunoff, Tigriopus japonicus Mori and Diaphanosoma celebensis Stingelin, using waste‐generated bacteria from fish waste diet (FWD) and selected probiotics. The non‐algal materials reviewed in this article are important to ensure constant supply of cheap live foods to improve aquaculture, especially in the developing countries, which lack sophisticated technology for production of high‐density microalgae.
Ligand‐Directed Caging Enables the Control of Endogenous DNA Alkyltransferase Activity with Light inside Live Cells
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Han Lili , Tian Xiaoxu , Peng Chao , Chen Yiyun
Published: February 2022

The control of endogenous protein activity with light inside live cells is helpful for the high spatiotemporal probing of their dynamic roles. Herein, we report the first small‐molecule‐ligand‐directed caging approach to control the endogenous human O6‐alkylguanine‐DNA alkyltransferase (AGT) activity with light, and the caged AGT is constructed from the native intracellular AGT. The photo‐responsive O6‐benzylguanine derivative O6‐NBG3 is developed to site‐specifically cage the AGT′s catalytic cysteine residue, and the light irradiation on‐demand restores AGT′s activity in vitro, in bacteria, and in mammalian cells. With O6‐NBG3, the alkylated AGT is dealkylated for the first time to recover the DNA repair activity in breast cancer MCF‐7 cells by the dose‐dependent light irradiation. This decaging strategy enables the localized modulation of endogenous AGT activity with high temporal precision without genetic engineering, which holds great potential for therapeutic applications.
Extreme Enhancement of Carbon Hydrogasification via Mechanochemistry
Authors: Han Gao‐Feng , Zhang Peng , Scholzen Pascal , Noh Hyuk‐Jun , Yang Mihyun , Kweon Do Hyung , Jeon Jong‐Pil , Kim Young Hyun , Kim Seong‐Wook , Han Sun‐Phil , Andreev Andrey S. , Lang Guillaume , Ihm Kyuwook , Li Feng , d'Espinose de Lacaillerie Jean‐Baptiste , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: February 2022

Carbon hydrogasification is the slowest reaction among all carbon‐involved small‐molecule transformations. Here, we demonstrate a mechanochemical method that results in both a faster reaction rate and a new synthesis route. The reaction rate was dramatically enhanced by up to 4 orders of magnitude compared to the traditional thermal method. Simultaneously, the reaction exhibited very high selectivity (99.8 % CH4, versus 80 % under thermal conditions) with a cobalt catalyst. Our study demonstrated that this extreme increase in reaction rate originates from the continuous activation of reactive carbon species via mechanochemistry. The high selectivity is intimately related to the activation at low temperature, at which higher hydrocarbons are difficult to form. This work is expected to advance studies of carbon hydrogasification, and other solid‐gas reactions.
A Self‐Serviced‐Track 3D DNA Walker for Ultrasensitive Detection of Tumor Exosomes by Glycoprotein Profiling
Authors: Wang Huizhen , Zeng Jiahao , Huang Jin , Cheng Hong , Chen Biao , Hu Xing , He Xiaoxiao , Zhou Yue , Wang Kemin
Published: February 2022

Sensitive and accurate analysis of low‐concentration of tumor‐derived exosomes (Exos) in biofluids is essential for noninvasive cancer diagnosis but is still challenging due to the lack of high‐sensitive methods with low‐cost and easy‐operation. Herein, exploiting target Exos as a three‐dimensional (3D) track for the first time, we developed a self‐serviced‐track DNA walker (STDW) for wash‐free detection of tumor Exos using exosomal glycoprotein, which was enabled by split aptamer‐recognition‐initiated autonomous running powered by a catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA). Benefiting from high selectivity and sensitivity of the STDW assay, direct detection of tumor Exos in cell culture medium and serum could also be realized. Furthermore, this method exhibited high accuracy in clinical sample analysis, offering the potential for early cancer diagnosis and postoperative response prediction.
Metal–Organic Cages with {SiW9Ni4} Polyoxotungstate Nodes
Authors: Chang Qing , Meng Xiangyu , Ruan Wenjun , Feng Yeqin , Li Rui , Zhu Jiayu , Ding Yong , Lv Hongjin , Wang Wei , Chen Guanying , Fang Xikui
Published: February 2022

A tritopic, Ni‐substituted Keggin cluster, {SiW9Ni4}, assembles with rigid dicarboxylate linkers to give rise to a set of discrete, POM2nL3n‐type structures (POM={SiW9Ni4}) with defined interior voids. The outcome of coordination‐driven self‐assemblies of these polyhedral cages—from fused dimers to trigonal prisms—was found to be sensitive to bend angles of the ditopic ligands, which vary from 122° to 180°. These polyoxotungstate‐based metal–organic polyhedra, when coupled with [Ru(bpy)3]Cl2 as a photosensitizer and triethanolamine as the electron donor, serve as highly effective catalysts for CO2 reduction, with turnover numbers up to 328 and CO selectivity as high as 96.2 %. The inner cavities of such cage structures, if functionalized or of sufficient size to encapsulate targeted guest molecules, could present a new strategy towards functional materials for potential applications.
Alternating Current Electrolysis Enabled Formal C−O/O−H Cross‐Metathesis of 4‐Alkoxy Anilines with Alcohols
Authors: Wang Daoxin , Jiang Tengfei , Wan Hao , Chen Ziyue , Qi Junchao , Yang Anqi , Huang Zhiliang , Yuan Yong , Lei Aiwen
Published: February 2022

While multiple bond metathesis reactions, for example olefin metathesis, have seen considerable recent progress, direct metathesis of traditionally inert C−O single bonds is extremely rare and particularly challenging. Undoubtedly, metathesis reaction of C−O bonds is one of the most ideal routes for the value‐added upgrading of molecules involving C−O bonds. Reported here is a new protocol to achieve the formal C−O/O−H cross‐metathesis via alternating current electrolysis. Featuring mild reaction conditions, the protocol allows readily available 4‐alkoxy anilines and alcohols to be converted into a wide range of valuable products in highly regioselective and chemoselective manner. Moreover, the present strategy can be used in the late‐stage modification of pharmaceuticals as well as biologically active compounds, which demonstrated the potential application.
Seizures after epidural blood patch in a postpartum patient later diagnosed with hypertension and proteinuria: a diagnostic conundrum
Authors: Prichard A. , Appiah S. , Kearsley R. , Arnold G.
Published: February 2022

Seizures are a rare, but documented, consequence of accidental dural puncture and epidural blood patch. They are also the cardinal feature of eclampsia. We present a postpartum patient who suffered a tonic‐clonic seizure within 1 hour of an epidural blood patch procedure for a suspected post‐dural puncture headache. Investigations also revealed hypertension, proteinuria and subdural collections. This case demonstrates the diagnostic dilemma associated with postpartum headache and late postpartum eclampsia. We illustrate the importance of a thorough clinical assessment of postpartum patients presenting with headache, highlighting the possibility of more than one underlying pathological cause. We also consider the role of epidural blood patch in both precipitating, and preventing, complications of accidental dural puncture.
My Journey From Black and White to Grey: A Student Counsellor's Perspective on Training in Post‐modernism Following a Career Working within a Modernist Model1
Authors: Schwarz Katrina , Munro Louise
Published: February 2022

The discovery of one's professional and personal epistemology is a crucial component of reflexive practice. The following autoethnography focuses on the development of the author's personal epistemology while completing a three‐year Master of Counselling degree. Having worked within the medical model for a decade, the author struggled with choosing between modernism and post‐modernism as a personal epistemology while practicing in a counselling and family therapy clinic that privileged post‐structural and social constructionist epistemologies. This paper examines that struggle. Data were drawn from journal entries documenting reflections, conversations with supervisors and student colleagues, vignettes from sessions, and current research into the development of epistemological positions. Ultimately, the author concludes that it is not modernism versus post‐modernism, but rather the two epistemologies, shaped by personal and professional experiences, that work together to facilitate intentional practice. The importance of examining a personal epistemology has implications for students, educators, supervisors, and practicing professionals.
Study of the mechanical properties and constitutive model of the roadbed rehabilitation polyurethane grouting materials under uniaxial compression
Authors: Fang Hongyuan , Zheng Qiankun , Du Mingrui , Liu Jianhua , Zhang Chao , Wang Zhenyang , Wang Fuming
Published: February 2022

Polyurethane grouting materials are increasingly used in the non‐excavation rehabilitation of roadbeds. The compressive strength of roadbed rehabilitation polyurethane (RHPU) grouting materials is the key to achieving the desirable repair effect, whereas the constitutive model of RHPU grouting materials is not yet understood. Here, the mechanical properties of RHPU grouting materials under compression were experimentally investigated, followed by establishing the hyperfoam constitutive model. The variation laws of the critical parameters in the model with density were function fitted, and then the constitutive model was simplified as an equation of density as the single independent variable. The comparisons between the theoretical and experimental mechanical behavior of RHPU grouting materials were discussed to illustrate the applicability of the hyperfoam constitutive model. Results show that with the increasing density, both the yield strength (σ1), elastic modulus (E1), and secant modulus (Es) increases exponentially, and the Poisson's ratio (v) increases logarithmically. The maximum increase in σ1, E1, Es, and v are about 750%, 720%, 940%, and 50%, respectively. Compared to the effects of density on the mechanical properties, the effect of loading rate is much smaller, and the side length has no effect. For RHPU samples with a density not exceeding 0.35 g/cm3, the hyperfoam model can well describe the uniaxial compression mechanical behavior, but for those whose density exceeds 0.35 g/cm3, the model can only describe the mechanical behavior before yielding. The theoretical yield strength of the RHPU samples obtained from the model is close to the experimental value (with differences of about 0.1%–14.4%). This study provides a base to evaluate the compressive strength of the practically used RHPU grouting materials based on the density.
3D printed electrically conductive interdigitated spacer on ultrafiltration membrane for electrolytic cleaning and chlorination
Authors: Khalil Abdullah , Ahmed Farah Ejaz , Hashaikeh Raed , Hilal Nidal
Published: February 2022

Membrane fouling is one of the challenging issues surrounding membrane‐based separation. Here in, we demonstrate direct 3D printing of electrically conductive interdigitated spacer on an ultrafiltration membrane for membrane cleaning and chlorination via periodic electrolysis. The spacers were 3D printed on the membrane surface via material extrusion using a composite slurry of graphite and silver. This 3D printed spacer, which was found to be mechanically robust, promoted turbulence, and increased the permeate flux. Moreover, as the potential is applied across the spacer segments in the presence of saline water, bubbling at the cathodic segment due to hydrogen evolution causes physical removal of the foulant from the membrane surface leading to flux recovery. In parallel, chlorine evolves at the anodic segment which decomposes the organic foulants and can potentially disinfect the membrane. Therefore, direct 3D printing of electrically conductive spacers on the membrane offers four benefits simultaneously: (1) spacer effect by promoting turbulence, (2) in‐situ membrane cleaning, (3) in‐situ chlorination, and (4) a reduced build‐envelope due to the integration of both anode and cathode with the membrane as spacer. Our work, therefore, demonstrates dual‐action in‐situ membrane cleaning while simplifying the design of the membrane module.
Morphological evaluation of the orbit, eye tunics, eyelids, and orbital glands in young and adult aardvarks Orycteropus afer, Pallas, 1766 (Tubulidentata: Orycteropodidae): Similarities and differences with representatives of the Afrotheria clade
Authors: Paszta Wojciech , Klećkowska‐Nawrot Joanna E. , Goździewska‐Harłajczuk Karolina
Published: February 2022

The Afrotheria clade includes a large group of extant mammals, and the aardvark (Orycteropus afer) is the only representative of the order Tubulidentata in it. Here, we studied the morphological nature of the orbital region, eye tunics, upper and lower eyelids, superficial gland of the third eyelid, the third eyelid, deep gland of the third eyelid, and lacrimal gland in post‐mortem specimens obtained from three captive aardvarks, two young and one adult. The obtained samples were analyzed using macroscopic, histological, and histochemical methods. We observed choroidal tapetum lucidum fibrosum in all specimens, which was typical for aardvarks. The superficial gland of the third eyelid was a compound multilobar tubular branched gland of a mucous nature. The deep gland of the third eyelid produced a serous secretion. The seromucous secretion was typical for the lacrimal gland. We compared the morphological data of the O. afer skull with that from other endemic African mammals in the Afrotheria clade. We found that other authors provided different anatomical names for some bones and foramina located within the orbit. The types and function of eyelid glands, as well as eyeball glands of aardvarks, can primarily be connected with their habitat. Our study may constitute an introduction to the ontogenesis of individual eyeball glands in aardvarks.
Probing single ventricle heart defects with patient‐derived induced pluripotent stem cells and emerging technologies
Authors: Hall Bailey , Alonzo Matthew , Texter Karen , Garg Vidu , Zhao Ming‐Tao
Published: February 2022

Single ventricle heart defects (SVHDs) are a severe type of congenital heart disease with poorly understood pathogenic mechanisms. New research using patient‐specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as a cellular model is beginning to uncover genetic and cellular etiologies of SVHDs. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a type of SVHD that is characterized by an underdeveloped left ventricle and other malformations in the left side of the heart. Hypoplastic right heart syndrome (HRHS), the second type of SVHD, is characterized by an underdeveloped right heart, including malformed tricuspid and pulmonary valves. Despite a noticeable lack of research on SVHD, emerging technologies offer a promising future to further probe the genetic and cellular mechanisms of these diseases. Pediatric cardiovascular research is at the dawn of a new era in terms of what can be discovered with patient‐specific iPSCs in conjunction with other technologies (e.g., organoids, single‐cell genomics, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing). In this review, we present recent approaches and findings utilizing patient‐specific iPSCs to identify cellular mechanisms responsible for improper cardiac organogenesis in HLHS and HRHS.
Structural and optical properties of dysprosium‐doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and the use as a bioimaging probe in human cells
Authors: Gitty Pooja , Mani Kamal Planthadathil , Deepti Ayswaria , Baby Chakrapani Pulikkaparambil Sasidharan , Prabeesh Punathil , Nampoori Vadakkedathu Parameswaran Narayanan , Kailasnath Madanan
Published: February 2022

In this work, the hydroxyapatite nanoparticles doped with trivalent dysprosium ions were synthesized by a co‐precipitation method. The characterization techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) were carried out to determine the crystalline and structural properties. The Rietveld structural refinement of the XRD patterns confirmed the purity of the phase formation of the synthesized nanoparticles. The photoluminescence emission spectra exhibited intense emissions in the blue region at 450 nm and 476 nm along with less intense yellow emission at 573 nm which can be attributed to the magnetic dipole and electric dipole transitions of dysprosium respectively. In order to evaluate the colour tunability of the emitted light CIE chromaticity coordinate values were calculated. The intense blue emissions from the synthesized sample were found to be favourable for bioimaging. The images obtained from the fluorescence microscopy revealed that the dysprosium‐doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are potential bioimaging probes in human cells.
From Light to Structure: Photo Initiators for Radical Two‐Photon Polymerization
Authors: Wloka Thomas , Gottschaldt Michael , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: February 2022

Two‐photon polymerization (2PP) represents a powerful technique for the fabrication of precise three‐dimensional structures on a micro‐ and nanometer scale for various applications. While many review articles are focusing on the used polymeric materials and their application in 2PP, in this review the class of two‐photon photo initiators (2PI) used for radical polymerization is discussed in detail. Because the demand for highly efficient 2PI has increased in the last decades, different approaches in designing new efficient 2PIs occurred. This review summarizes the 2PIs known in literature and discusses their absorption behavior under one‐ and two‐photon absorption (2PA) conditions, their two‐photon cross sections (σTPA) as well as their efficiency under 2PP conditions. Here, the photo initiators are grouped depending on their chromophore system (D‐π‐A‐π‐D, D‐π‐D, etc.). Their polymerization efficiencies are evaluated by fabrication windows (FW) depending on different laser intensities and writing speeds.
Encapsulation of Trimethine Cyanine in Cucurbit[8]uril: Solution versus Solid‐State Inclusion Behavior
Authors: Soavi Giuseppe , Pedrini Alessandro , Devi Das Anjali , Terenziani Francesca , Pinalli Roberta , Hickey Neal , Medagli Barbara , Geremia Silvano , Dalcanale Enrico
Published: February 2022

Inclusion of polymethine cyanine dyes in the cavity of macrocyclic receptors is an effective strategy to alter their absorption and emission behavior in aqueous solution. In this paper, the effect of the host‐guest interaction between cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) and a model trimethine indocyanine (Cy3) on dye spectral properties and aggregation in water is investigated. Solution studies, performed by a combination of spectroscopic and calorimetric techniques, indicate that the addition of CB[8] disrupts Cy3 aggregates, leading to the formation of a 1 : 1 host‐guest complex with an association constant of 1.5×106 M−1. At concentrations suitable for NMR experiments, the slow formation of a supramolecular polymer was observed, followed by precipitation. Single crystals X‐ray structure elucidation confirmed the formation of a polymer with 1 : 1 stoichiometry in the solid state.
Fluidization‐based chemical vapour deposition for alumina coating on tubular carbon steel substrates—Modelling and validation
Authors: Dabhade Prasad A. , Mandal Debapriya , Satre Sanjay R. , Chougule Bahubali K.
Published: February 2022

The degradation of carbon steels due to corrosion and gaseous permeation phenomena can be significantly reduced by a thin alumina coating. Tubular carbon steel structures, commonly employed in nuclear establishments are particularly vulnerable to chemical degradation on the inner surface due to the flow of corrosive fluids. In the present work, a fluidization‐based chemical vapour deposition process is applied as a one‐step solution for simultaneous chemical passivation of both inner and outer substrate surfaces meanwhile optimizing precursor inventory by utilizing fluidized bed sublimation and induction heating techniques. The process is studied by using a 2D‐1D mathematical model, which has been validated with experimental results for different carbon steel grades. It was observed that there exists an optimum fluidization velocity for a specified initial mass fraction of precursor powder at which mass of alumina deposited per unit mass of precursor sublimated is maximized.
Liraglutide‐Loaded Milk Exosomes Lower Blood Glucose When Given by Sublingual Route
Authors: Xu Mingzhi , Chen Gang , Dong Yanan , Yang Jing , Liu Yongxue , Song Haijing , Song Haifeng , Wang Yi
Published: February 2022

Bovine milk is rich in extracellular vesicles (mEVs) which have been suggested as a possible drug delivery vehicle with oral bioavailability. As the digestive fluids contain many lipid‐ and protein‐degrading enzymes, we explored whether mEVs given sublingually could be taken up systemically. mEVs were isolated using three different protocols, which were 120 nm in diameter and carried bovine CD81. Fluorescently stained mEVs given by sublingual route were detected in the circulation, whereas mEVs given by gavage were detected at 2‐Log lower concentrations. As proof of the concept, we loaded mEVs with the antidiabetic drug Liraglutide (LRT‐EV), which reduced blood glucose levels when given by the sublingual route but showed no efficacy via gavage. This study suggests that mEV may be an efficient delivery vehicle for drugs that are not orally bioavailable, and LRT‐loaded EVs have the potential as the next‐generation drug delivery platform for the treatment of chronic diseases, including diabetes.
Phase 2 study for nonmetastatic extremity high‐grade osteosarcoma in pediatric and adolescent and young adult patients with a risk‐adapted strategy based on ABCB1/P‐glycoprotein expression: An Italian Sarcoma Group trial (ISG/OS‐2)
Authors: Palmerini Emanuela , Meazza Cristina , Tamburini Angela , Bisogno Gianni , Ferraresi Virginia , Asaftei Sebastian D. , Milano Giuseppe M. , Coccoli Luca , Manzitti Carla , Luksch Roberto , Serra Massimo , Gambarotti Marco , Donati Davide M. , Scotlandi Katia , Bertulli Rossella , Favre Claudio , Longhi Alessandra , Abate Massimo E. , Perrotta Silverio , Mascarin Maurizio , D’Angelo Paolo , Cesari Marilena , Staals Eric L. , Marchesi Emanuela , Carretta Elisa , Ibrahim Toni , Casali Paolo G. , Picci Piero , Fagioli Franca , Ferrari Stefano
Published: February 2022

Background

According to retrospective osteosarcoma series, ABCB1/P‐glycoprotein (Pgp) overexpression predicts for poor outcomes. A prospective trial to assess a risk‐adapted treatment strategy using mifamurtide in Pgp+ patients was performed.

Methods

This was a phase 2, multicenter, uncontrolled trial including patients 40 years old or younger with nonmetastatic extremity high‐grade osteosarcoma stratified according to Pgp expression. All patients received high‐dose methotrexate, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (MAP) preoperatively. In Pgp+ patients, mifamurtide was added postoperatively and combined with MAP for a good histologic response (necrosis ≥ 90%; good responders [GRs]) or with high‐dose ifosfamide (HDIFO) at 3 g/m2/d on days 1 to 5 for a histologic response < 90% (poor responders [PRs]). Pgp– patients received MAP postoperatively. After an amendment, the cumulative dose of methotrexate was increased from 60 to 120 g/m2 (from 5 to 10 courses). The primary end point was event‐free survival (EFS). A postamendment analysis was performed.

Results

In all, 279 patients were recruited, and 194 were included in the postamendment analysis: 70 (36%) were Pgp–, and 124 (64%) were Pgp+. The median follow‐up was 51 months. For Pgp+ patients, 5‐year EFS after definitive surgery (null hypothesis, 40%) was 69.8% (90% confidence interval [CI], 62.2%‐76.2%): 59.8% in PRs and 83.7% in GRs. For Pgp– patients, the 5‐year EFS rate was 66.4% (90% CI, 55.6%‐75.1%).

Conclusions

This study showed that adjuvant mifamurtide, combined with HDIFO for a poor response to induction chemotherapy, could improve EFS in Pgp+ patients. Overall, the outcomes compared favorably with previous series. Mifamurtide and HDIFO as salvage chemotherapy are worth further study.
Preparation, Properties, and Application of Lignocellulosic‐Based Fluorescent Carbon Dots
Authors: Song Xueping , Zhao Siyu , Xu Ying , Chen Xinrui , Wang Shuangfei , Zhao Peitao , Pu Yunqiao , Ragauskas Arthur J.
Published: February 2022

Carbon dots (CDs) are a relatively new type of fluorescent carbon material with excellent performance and widespread application. As the most readily available and widely distributed biomass resource, lignocellulosics are a renewable bioresource with great potential. Research into the preparation of CDs with lignocellulose (LC‐CDs) has become the focus of numerous researchers. Compared with other carbon sources, lignocellulose is low cost, rich in structural variety, exhibits excellent biocompatibility,[1] and the structures of CDs prepared by lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose are similar. This Review summarized research progress in the preparation of CDs from lignocellulosics in recent years and reviewed traditional and new preparation methods, physical and chemical properties, optical properties, and applications of LC‐CDs, providing guidance for the formation and improvement of LC‐CDs. In addition, the challenges of synthesizing LC‐CDs were also highlighted, including the interaction of different lignocellulose components on the formation of LC‐CDs and the nucleation and growth mechanism of LC‐CDs; from this, current trends and opportunities of LC‐CDs were examined, and some research methods for future research were put forward.
Evaluation of a grid‐connected reduced‐component boost multilevel inverter (BMLI) topology
Authors: Debela Tamiru , Singh Jiwanjot , Sood Vijay K.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a reduced‐component switched‐capacitor boost multilevel inverter (SC‐BMLI) topology is proposed for off‐grid and on‐grid applications. Recently, switched‐capacitor‐based multilevel inverter (MLI) topologies have been employed to avoid the need for multiple isolated direct current (DC) sources when compared with traditional cascaded MLIs. To generate a nine‐level stepped‐up voltage across the load, the SC‐BMLI needs only eight power switches and two capacitors. To get the appropriate nine‐level switching pattern, phase disposition pulse width modulation (PD‐PWM) has been used. An extended 13‐level boost multilevel inverter (BMLI) is also discussed in this paper. The proposed topology is connected to the grid to control the grid current using synchronous reference frame‐based proportional–integral controller. A small‐signal modeling and analysis has been discussed in detail for the phase‐locked‐loop (PLL). Moreover, to prove the superior performance of the SC‐BMLI, comparative analysis with an existing single DC source MLI has also been performed. The feasibility of the 9‐level and 13‐level proposed topologies, with and without the grid‐connection, is evaluated by Matlab/Simulink simulation and verified by an experimental study using the OPAL‐RT 4510 real‐time platform. Further, prototype model of nine‐level BMLI has been developed in the laboratory using DSpace 1103 controller and results are compared with simulation.
Isolated Co Atoms Anchored on Defective Nitrogen‐doped Carbon Graphene as Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Rao Peng , Luo Junming , Wu Daoxiong , Li Jing , Chen Qi , Deng Peilin , Shen Yijun , Tian Xinlong
Published: February 2022

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is the heart of many new energy conversions and storage devices, such as metal‐air batteries and fuel cells. However, ORR is currently facing the dilemma of sluggish intrinsic kinetics and the noble electrocatalysts of high price and low reserves. In this work, isolated Co atoms anchored on defective nitrogen‐doped carbon graphene single‐atom catalyst (Co‐SAC/NC) are synthesized via the proposed movable type printing method. The prepared Co‐SAC/NC catalyst demonstrates admirable ORR performance, with a high half‐wave potential of 0.884 V in alkaline electrolytes and outstanding durability. In addition, an assembled zinc–air battery with prepared Co‐SAC/NC as air‐cathode catalyst displays a high‐peak power density of 179 mW cm−2 and a high‐specific capacity (757 mAh g−1). Density functional theory calculations confirm that the true active sites of the prepared catalyst are Co‐N4 moieties, and further reveal a significantly electronic structure evolution of Co sites in the ORR process, in which the project density of states and local magnetic moment of Co atom varies during its whole reaction process. This work not only paves a new avenue for synthesizing SACs as robust electrocatalysts, but also provides an electronic‐level insight into the evolution of the electronic structure of single‐atom catalysts.
One‐Pot Synthesis of 8‐Azaguanines by Transition Metal‐Free Cascade Cyclization of Carbodiimides with Ethyl Diazoacetate
Authors: Wang Shilong , Zhao Xingchen , Liu Jixin , Zhao Ziling , Yu Haoran , Li Jiaxun , Li Jiazhu , Chen Jinchun , Zhang Zhen
Published: February 2022

A concise and mild method to construct 8‐azaguanines derivatives in one‐pot fashion has been developed. This strategy involves a rapid assembly of ethyl diazoacetate (EDA) with two carbodiimides via a cascade cyclization process. A variety of diversely substituted 8‐azaguanines derivatives were prepared with good regioselectivity and yields. The facile scale‐up synthesis further revealed the promising utility of this methodology.
Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide on the Recovery of Valuable Metals from Spent LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Batteries
Authors: Cheng Xiangyu , Guo Guanghui , Cheng Yukun , Liu Mingxiu , Ji Jiaxing
Published: February 2022

Considering the increasing price of raw materials and environmental pollution, the recycling of used lithium battery cathode materials has very important economic and environmental value. In this experiment, a green recycling method is used to recover valuable metals from spent LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 batteries using DL‐malic acid and H2O2 as a leaching system. The effects of reaction temperature, acid concentration, H2O2 volume concentration, reaction time, and solid–liquid ratio on the leaching efficiency are investigated by orthogonal and single variable condition experiments. Under the optimum conditions, the leaching efficiencies of Ni, Co, Mn, and Li are 96.2%, 97.1%, 97.6%, and 98.1%, respectively, while the leaching efficiency of Al is only 3.5%. The effect of H2O2 on the leaching process is further investigated by macroscopic characterization and kinetic analysis. The study indicates that the leaching process is controlled by a chemical reaction in the absence of H2O2, and the leaching process after the addition of H2O2 is controlled by the chemical reaction process and the diﬀusion process.
Monitoring Phthalates in Maternal and Cord Blood: Implications for Prenatal Exposure and Birth Outcomes
Authors: Hwa Hsiao-Lin , Peng Fu-Shiang , Ting Te-Tien , Chen Huei-Wen , Chan Hsiang-Yu , Yang Da-Peng , Chen Pau-Chung , Kuo Yun-Ning , Chen Pai-Shan
Published: February 2022

Although many phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that are associated with adverse birth outcomes, the relationship between maternal phthalate exposure and birth outcomes is not yet conclusive. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between prenatal exposure to phthalates in human maternal and cord blood and birth outcomes of the infants. Sixty-five mother–infant pairs were recruited in Taipei City and New Taipei City, and birth outcomes of the infants were recorded. Twelve phthalate metabolites were measured in maternal and cord blood samples. The mean of mono-ethyl phthalate, mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), and mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) was relatively higher than that of the other metabolites in both maternal and infant blood. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) for mono-methyl phthalate (MMP) and MnBP between the maternal blood and cord blood of male infants. Mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), MMP, MiBP, and ∑di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (∑DEHP) in maternal blood were inversely correlated with the anogenital index (AGI) of male infants, with a p value between 0.011 and 0.033. Mono-n-octyl phthalate, MMP, MiBP, MnBP, and MBzP were positively correlated with the AGI of female infants, with a p value between 0.001 and 0.034. Cord blood levels of MnBP, mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl)-phthalate, MEHP, and ∑DEHP were found to be inversely associated with head circumference in all the infants, adjusted for gestational age. Phthalate monoesters are potentially estrogenic and antiandrogenic chemicals. Longitudinal follow-up of the present study population could help clarify the long-term impact of phthalates on growth and the health effects of background exposure levels. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:715–725. © 2022 SETAC

Abstract

Monitoring phthalates in maternal and cord blood for birth outcomes.
Long-Term Monitoring of an In Situ Activated Carbon Treatment to Reduce Polychlorinated Biphenyl Availability in an Active Harbor
Authors: Wang Alice Peiying , Conder Jason , Chadwick Bart , Rosen Gunther
Published: February 2022

Activated carbon–based amendments have been demonstrated as a means of sequestering sediment-associated organic compounds such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). In a 2012 effort, an activated carbon amendment was placed at a 0.5-acre amendment area adjacent to and underneath Pier 7 at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility, Bremerton, Washington, USA to reduce PCB availability. Multiple postplacement monitoring events over a 3-year period showed an 80%–90% reduction in PCBs, stability of activated carbon, and no significant negative impacts to the benthic community. To further evaluate the long-term performance, a follow-on to the approximately 7-year (82-month) postplacement monitoring event was conducted in 2019. The results of in situ porewater and bioaccumulation evaluations were consistent with previous observations, indicating overall PCB availability reductions of approximately 80%–90% from preamendment conditions. Multiple measurement approaches for quantifying activated carbon and amendment presence indicated that the amendment was present and stable in the amendment area and that the activated carbon content was similar to levels observed previously. As in the previous investigation, benthic invertebrate community metrics indicated that the amendment did not significantly impair benthic health. An application of carbon petrography to quantify activated carbon content in surface sediments was also explored. The results were found to correspond within a factor of 1.3 (on average) with those of data for the black carbon content via a black carbon chemical oxidation method, an approach that quantifies all forms of black carbon (including activated carbon). The results suggest that at sites with low soot-derived black carbon content in sediment (relative to the targeted activated carbon dose), the black carbon chemical oxidation method would be a reasonable method for measurement of activated carbon dosage in sediment at sites amended with activated carbon. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1568–1574. © 2022 SETAC
Gonadal Development in Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus Dolomieu) Reared in the Absence and Presence of 17-α-Ethinylestradiol
Authors: Kadlec Sarah M. , Blackwell Brett R. , Blanksma Chad A. , Johnson Rodney D. , Olker Jennifer H. , Schoff Patrick K. , Mount David R.
Published: February 2022

Testicular oocytes in wild adult bass (Micropterus spp.) are considered a potential indication of exposure to estrogenic compounds in municipal, agricultural, or industrial wastewater. However, our ability to interpret links between testicular oocyte occurrence in wild fish species and environmental pollutants is limited by our understanding of normal and abnormal gonadal development. We previously reported low-to-moderate testicular oocyte prevalence (7%–38%) among adult male bass collected from Minnesota waters with no known sources of estrogenic compounds. In the present study, two experiments were conducted in which smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) fry were exposed to control water or 17-α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) during gonadal differentiation, then reared in clean water for an additional period. Histological samples were evaluated at several time points during the exposure and grow-out periods, and the sequence and timing of gonadal development in the presence of estrogen were compared with that of control fish. Testicular oocytes were not observed in any control or EE2-exposed fish. Among groups exposed to 1.2 or 5.1 ng/L EE2 in Experiment 1 or 3.0 ng/L EE2 in Experiment 2, ovaries were observed in 100% of fish up to 90 days after exposure ceased, and approximately half of those ovaries had abnormal characteristics, suggesting that they likely developed in sex-reversed males. Groups exposed to 0.1, 0.4, or 1.0 ng/L in Experiment 2 developed histologically normal ovaries and testes in proportions not significantly different from 1:1. These findings suggest that, while presumably able to cause sex reversal, juvenile exposure to EE2 may not be a unique cause of testicular oocytes in wild bass, although the long-term outcomes of exposure are unknown. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1416–1428. © 2022 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Rational design of allosteric switchable catalysts
Authors: Pan Tiezheng , Wang Yaling , Xue Xue , Zhang Chunqiu
Published: February 2022

Allosteric regulation, in many cases, involves switching the activities of natural enzymes, which further affects the enzymatic network and cell signaling in the living systems. The research on the construction of allosteric switchable catalysts has attracted broad interests, aiming to control the progress and asymmetry of catalytic reactions, expand the chemical biology toolbox, substitute unstable natural enzymes in the biological detection and biosensors, and fabricate the biomimetic cascade reactions. Thus, in this review, we summarize the recent outstanding works in switchable catalysts based on the allosterism of single molecules, supramolecular complexes, and self‐assemblies. The concept of allosterism was extended from natural proteins to polymers, organic molecules, and supramolecular systems. In terms of the difference between these building scaffolds, a variety of design methods that tailor biological and synthetic molecules into controllable catalysts were introduced with emphasis.
Quinoa flour as a skim milk powder replacer in concentrated yogurts: Effect on their physicochemical, technological, and sensory properties
Authors: Alkobeisi Fatemeh , Varidi Mohammad Javad , Varidi Mehdi , Nooshkam Majid
Published: February 2022

Milk standardization with solids (i.e., nonfat milk solids, MSNF) for yogurt manufacture is traditionally achieved by the addition of skim milk powder (SMP). However, the addition of SMP to milk‐based yogurt increases lactose content and decreases both protein content and gel firmness. Thus, in this work, quinoa flour (QF; 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% w/w) was used to replace SMP in concentrated yogurt. The physicochemical, textural, and sensory properties and microstructure of the yogurt were evaluated during cold storage. Generally, protein content, water‐holding capacity, and L* value decreased, while syneresis, textural attributes, and viscosity increased with increasing QF content. The substitution of high levels of QF (>25%, w/w) for SMP led to significantly shorter fermentation times, as compared to the control sample. The scanning electron microscopy observations showed significant changes in the yogurt microstructure as a consequence of QF replacement. Samples with 25% (w/w) substitution of QF and control had the highest scores in overall acceptance. According to the results, QF could be applied as an interesting raw material for concentrating the milk‐based yogurt at substitution level of 25% (w/w).
Linking soil fungi to bacterial community assembly in arid ecosystems
Authors: Jiao Shuo , Chu Haiyan , Zhang Baogang , Wei Xiaorong , Chen Weimin , Wei Gehong
Published: February 2022

Revealing the roles of biotic factors in driving community assembly, which is crucial for the understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem functions, is a fundamental but infrequently investigated subject in microbial ecology. Here, combining a cross‐biome observational study with an experimental microcosm study, we provided evidence to reveal the major roles of biotic factors (i.e., soil fungi and cross‐kingdom species associations) in determining soil bacterial biogeography and community assembly in complex terrestrial ecosystems of the arid regions of northwest China. The results showed that the soil fungal richness mediates the balance of assembly processes of bacterial communities, and stochastic assembly processes decreased with increasing fungal richness. Our results further suggest that the predicted increase in aridity conditions due to climate change will reduce bacterial α‐diversity, particularly in desert soils and subsurface layer, and induce more negative species associations. Together, our study represents a significant advance in linking soil fungi to the mechanisms underlying bacterial biogeographic patterns and community assembly in arid ecosystems under climate aridity and land‐use change scenarios.
Managing agricultural water resources: Addressing the complexity of innovation, social perspectives, and water governance in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasiri Maveekumbure Manthreethilaka Jayasiri Gamaralalage Chathuri , Yadav Sudhir , Dayawansa Nandani Dhammika Kumari , Ingold Karin
Published: February 2022

Irrigation plays a vital role in world food security. Agriculture accounts for 70% of freshwater withdrawals worldwide, and the figure is even higher in developing countries like Sri Lanka. The rapid expansion of anthropogenic activities, together with the anticipated climatic risks associated with them, is exacerbating the problem of increasing agricultural water demand. Although it has been recognized for decades, improving irrigation water‐use efficiency and water productivity is still considered the most realistic option for addressing the challenge of sustainable management of water resources. However, adoption of recommended water‐efficient technologies and concepts remains elusive in practice, highlighting the gaps created by failing to consider social perspectives in developing water management strategies. As a result, the effectiveness of water governance has often been questioned in terms of performance and adoption of innovative technologies. This paper reviews and discusses the complexity of innovation through a technical, social, and institutional lens by reviewing available research on Sri Lanka's river basins and presents a perspective on opportunities for improving irrigation water management.
Blind deconvolution in autocorrelation inversion for multiview light‐sheet microscopy
Authors: Corbetta Elena , Candeo Alessia , Bassi Andrea , Ancora Daniele
Published: February 2022

Combining the information coming from multiview acquisitions is a problem of great interest in light‐sheet microscopy. Aligning the views and increasing the resolution of their fusion can be challenging, especially if the setup is not fully calibrated. Here, we tackle these issues by proposing a new reconstruction method based on autocorrelation inversion that avoids alignment procedures. On top of this, we add a blind deconvolution step to improve the resolution of the final reconstruction. Our method permits us to achieve inherently aligned, highly resolved reconstructions while, at the same time, estimating the unknown point‐spread function of the system.

Research Highlights

We tackle the problem of multiview light‐sheet deconvolution with a blind approach of autocorrelation inversion

Our method recovers the object and PSF, requires no alignment and calibration, and enhances the reconstruction of the specimen.