bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐Particle Self‐Consistent Method for the Multi‐Orbital Hubbard Model
Authors: Zantout Karim , Backes Steffen , Valentí Roser
Published: January 2021

One of the most challenging problems in solid state systems is the microscopic analysis of electronic correlations. A paramount minimal model that encodes correlation effects is the Hubbard Hamiltonian, which—regardless of its simplicity—is exactly solvable only in a few limiting cases and approximate many‐body methods are required for its solution. In this review, an overview on the non‐perturbative two‐particle self‐consistent method (TPSC), which was originally introduced to describe the electronic properties of the single‐band Hubbard model, is presented. A detailed derivation of the multi‐orbital generalization of TPSC is introduced here and particular features of the method on exemplary interacting models in comparison to dynamical mean‐field theory results are discussed.
Raman Gain Square‐Wave Noise‐Like Pulse Laser Pumped by a Random Fiber Laser
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Zhang Weili , Zhang Yanli , Rao Yunjiang
Published: January 2021

Mode locking of a long‐cavity Raman fiber laser pumped by a low‐noise random fiber laser (RFL) is demonstrated experimentally, where tunable square‐wave noise‐like pulse (NLP) is generated through nonlinear polarization rotation technology. Pulse duration can be tuned from 26 to 134 ns by controlling the polarization state or pump power at a repetition rate of 93 kHz. A signal‐to‐noise ratio of 64 dB is obtained due to the low‐noise characteristic of RFL. In addition, up to 24th high‐order harmonic mode‐locked square‐wave NLP is observed, which has not been reported in mode‐locked Raman fiber lasers with large normal dispersion. This approach not only provides a good temporal stable pump source for mode locking of Raman fiber lasers, but also enriches the methods of laser pulse generation and regulation.
The enhanced role of surface amination on the catalytic performance of polyacrylonitrile supported palladium nanoparticles in hydrogen generation from formic acid
Authors: Li Yulin , Chen Lili , Jia Yanhong , Li Da , Hao Xiufeng , Jia Mingjun
Published: January 2021

Hydrogen production by formic acid (FA) has attracted widespread attention in the field of catalysis and energy chemistry. Here, we develop a highly efficient catalyst for FA dehydrogenation by surface amination of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) supported palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs). The support of PAN derived from a soap‐free emulsion polymerization was ammoniated by simply treating it with ethylenediamine (EDA) solution under heating. Compared with the parent PAN material, the aminated PAN (EDA‐PAN) is a more suitable support to achieve high dispersion of Pd NPs with ultra‐small particle size (around 1.2 nm), and to fabricate more active and stable supported Pd‐based catalyst for FA dehydrogenation. The turnover frequency (TOF) of the Pd/EDA‐PAN catalyst could reach to 3989 h−1 at 333 K without using any additional bases or additives. More significantly, the aminated catalyst could even work well at ambient temperature with a TOF of 688 h−1 at 303 K.
Secondary nucleation of styrenated hydroxyl‐functionalized latexes
Authors: Hu Yongan , Ocepek Martin , Soucek Mark D.
Published: January 2021

In this study, secondary nucleation in emulsion polymerization of butyl acrylate (BA), styrene (St), and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), was investigated. Different molar ratios of BA and St were used. Average particle size, particle size distribution (PSD), polymerization kinetics, glass transition temperature (Tg), and surface tension were monitored and compared. All synthetic latexes were prepared through seeded semi‐batch emulsion polymerization process. Three different BA to St ratios (1:1, 1:2, 2:1) were combined with eight different HEMA contents (0, 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 mol%) in monomer composition, respectively. In the case of high HEMA content (10–40 mol%) it is found that secondary nucleation is mainly affected by HEMA. Secondary nucleation at low HEMA content (1–5 mol%) is dependent on the BA to St monomer ratio, and consequently a reflection of z‐mer hydrophobicity.
Mediation of Interleukin‐23 and Tumor Necrosis Factor–Driven Reactive Arthritis by Chlamydia‐Infected Macrophages in SKG Mice
Authors: Romand Xavier , Liu Xiao , Rahman M. Arifur , Bhuyan Zaied Ahmed , Douillard Claire , Kedia Reena Arora , Stone Nathan , Roest Dominique , Chew Zi Huai , Cameron Amy J. , Rehaume Linda M. , Bozon Aurélie , Habib Mohammed , Armitage Charles W. , Nguyen Minh Vu Chuong , Favier Bertrand , Beagley Kenneth , Maurin Max , Gaudin Philippe , Thomas Ranjeny , Wells Timothy J. , Baillet Athan
Published: January 2021

Objective

ZAP‐70W163C BALB/c (SKG) mice develop reactive arthritis (ReA) following infection with Chlamydia muridarum. Since intracellular pathogens enhance their replicative fitness in stressed host cells, we examined how myeloid cells infected with C muridarum drive arthritis.

Methods

SKG, Il17a‐deficient SKG, and BALB/c female mice were infected with C muridarum or C muridarum luciferase in the genitals. C muridarum dissemination was assessed by in vivo imaging or genomic DNA amplification. Macrophages were depleted using clodronate liposomes. Anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) and anti–interleukin‐23p19 (anti–IL‐23p19) were administered after infection or arthritis onset. Gene expression of Hspa5, Tgtp1, Il23a, Il17a, Il12b, and Tnf was compared in SKG mice and BALB/c mice.

Results

One week following infection with C muridarum, macrophages and neutrophils were observed to have infiltrated the uteri of mice and were also shown to have carried C muridarum DNA to the spleen. C muridarum load was higher in SKG mice than in BALB/c mice. Macrophage depletion was shown to reduce C muridarum load and prevent development of arthritis. Compared with BALB/c mice, expression of Il23a and Il17a was increased in the uterine and splenic neutrophils of SKG mice. The presence of anti–IL‐23p19 during infection or Il17a deficiency suppressed arthritis. Tnf was overexpressed in the joints of SKG mice within 1 week postinfection, and persisted beyond the first week. TNF inhibition during infection or at arthritis onset suppressed the development of arthritis. Levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress were constitutively increased in the joints of SKG mice but were induced, in conjunction with immunity‐related GTPase, by C muridarum infection in the uterus.

Conclusion

C muridarum load is higher in SKG mice than in BALB/c mice. Whereas proinflammatory IL‐23 produced by neutrophils contributes to the initiation of C muridarum–mediated ReA, macrophage depletion reduces C muridarum dissemination to other tissues, tissue burden, and the development of arthritis. TNF inhibition was also shown to suppress arthritis development. Our data suggest that enhanced bacterial dissemination in macrophages of SKG mice drives the TNF production needed for persistent arthritis.
SO2 Resisting Pd‐doped Pr1‐xCexMnO3 Perovskites for Efficient Denitration at Low Temperature
Authors: Ma Linghui , Ma Chenglong , Xie Tianying , Cao Limei , Yang Ji
Published: January 2021

H2‐SCR is served as the promising technology for the controlling of NOx emission, and the Pd‐based derivative catalyst exhibited high NOx reduction performance. Effectively regulating the electronic configuration of the active component is favorable to the rational optimization of noble Pd. In this work, a series of Pr1‐xCexMn1‐yPdyO3@Ni were successfully synthesized and exhibited superior NO conversion efficiency at low temperatures. 92.7 % conversion efficiency was achieved at 200 °C over Pr0.9Ce0.1Mn0.9Pd0.1O3@Ni in the presence of 4 % O2 with a GHSV of 32000 h−1. Meanwhile, the outstanding performance was obtained in the resistance to SO2 (200 ppm) and H2O (8 %). Deduced from the results of XRD, Raman, XPS, and H2‐TPR, the modification of d orbit states in palladium was confirmed originating from the incorporation in the B site of Pr0.9Ce0.1Mn0.9Pd0.1O3. The existence of higher valence (Pd3+ and Pd4+) than the bivalence in Pr0.9Ce0.1Mn0.9Pd0.1O3 catalyst was evidenced by XPS analysis. Our research provides a new sight into the H2‐SCR through the higher utilization of Pd.
CO2/N2 and O2/N2 Separation Using Mixed‐Matrix Membranes with MOF‐74 Nanocrystals Synthesized Via Microwave Reactions
Authors: Roh Euijin , Subiyanto Iyan , Choi Wanuk , Park Young Cheol , Cho Churl‐Hee , Kim Hyunuk
Published: January 2021

Due to their large surface areas and unique gas adsorption properties, mixed‐matrix membranes (MMMs) with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been extensively studied in relation to various gas separations. In the present paper, we report the quick synthesis of MOF‐74 (M = Mg, Mn, Co, Ni) nanocrystals by microwave reactions and the fabrication of MMMs for use in CO2/N2 and O2/N2 separation. The scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis revealed the homogenous distribution of the MOF‐74 nanocrystals within the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The single gas permeation experiments showed the enhanced CO2/N2 and O2/N2 selectivity by adding the MOF‐74 nanocrystals to the PDMS. This enhanced CO2/N2 and O2/N2 selectivity may be due to the affinity of CO2 and O2 toward the Lewis acidic sites of the MOF‐74.
Identification of carbonylated proteins from monocytic cells under diabetes‐induced stress conditions
Authors: Nair Divya , Nedungadi Divya , Mishra Nandita , Nair Bipin Gopalakrishnan , Nair Sudarslal Sadasivan
Published: January 2021

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by the presence of elevated glucose in the blood and enhanced oxidative stress. It affects the cellular homeostasis that leads to the development of micro‐and macro‐vascular complications. Monocytes are the primary immune cells present in the circulatory system. Under high‐glucose conditions, the cells undergo oxidative stress and secrete reactive oxygen species. The enhanced release of reactive species is known to modify biomolecules like proteins and nucleic acids. Protein carbonylation, one of the most harmful and irreversible protein modifications, is considered as a key player in the progression of diabetes and associated complications. Hence, the present study explores the identification of carbonylated proteins from the monocytes under diabetic stress and determination of their site of modification. Combined avidin affinity chromatography and bottom‐up proteomics experiments identified 13 consistently expressed carbonylated proteins. Most of the identified proteins were reported to have altered functions under diabetic conditions that contribute to the development of diabetes‐associated inflammation and complications. We were able to determine oxidative stress‐induced modifications on Lys, Val, Ile, Cys, Thr and Asp residues.
Pharmacokinetic study of three different formulations of l‐tetrahydropalmatine in brain tissues of rats
Authors: Li Yiran , Zhang Teng , Huai Jiaxin , Cheng Congcong , Xie Linlin , Wang Siqi , Dai Ronghua
Published: January 2021

l‐Tetrahydropalmatine (l‐THP), an active alkaloid compound isolated from Rhizoma Corydalis‐yanhusuo, has been reported to possess biological activity for treating cocaine use. To enhance both oral bioavailability and brain penetration, three formulations of l‐THP suspension, mixture of l‐THP–puerarin and self‐microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) were prepared. A sensitive and reliable ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of l‐THP and its active metabolite l‐isocorypalmine (l‐ICP) in rat brain. Diazepam was used as the internal standard. The chromatographic separation was achieved on a Bonshell ASB C18 column at 30°C using acetonitrile–aqueous formic acid as mobile phase in gradient mode. The linearity was validated over the concentration ranges of 4.00–2,500 ng/ml for l‐THP and 0.400–500 ng/ml for l‐ICP. Full method validation was within the acceptance limits. The method was successfully used to determine the pharmacokinetics of two analytes following oral administration of these three formulations to rats. A significant difference was observed in the main pharmacokinetic parameters between SMEDDS and the suspension, and a 3.25‐ and 2.97‐fold increase in the relative bioavailability of l‐THP and l‐ICP, respectively, was observed with the SMEDDS compared with the suspension formulation. It was concluded that SMEDDS enhanced the absorption of l‐THP and l‐ICP and delayed their release in brain.
Simultaneous analysis of drugs administered to lung‐transplanted patients using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry for therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Takasaki Shinya , Hirasawa Tensei , Sato Yu , Maekawa Masamitsu , Tsukamoto Taku , Kikuchi Masafumi , Ogura Jiro , Hayakawa Yoshihiro , Matsuda Yasushi , Oishi Hisashi , Sado Tetsu , Noda Masafumi , Okada Yoshinori , Yamaguchi Hiroaki , Mano Nariyasu
Published: January 2021

Several drugs are administered to lung‐transplanted patients, which are monitored using therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). Therefore, we developed and validated a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method to simultaneously analyze immunosuppressive drugs such as mycophenolic acid, antifungal drugs such as voriconazole and itraconazole, and its metabolite hydroxyitraconazole. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a C18 column and gradient flow of mobile phase comprising 20 mM aqueous ammonium formate and 20 mM ammonium formate‐methanol solution. A simple protein precipitation treatment was performed using acetonitrile/methanol and mycophenolic acid‐2H3, voriconazole‐2H3, itraconazole‐2H4, and hydroxyitraconazole‐2H4 as internal standards. The linearity ranges of mycophenolic acid, voriconazole, itraconazole, and hydroxyitraconazole were 100–20,000, 50–10,000, 5–1000, and 5–1000 ng/mL, respectively. The retention time of each target was less than 2 min. The relative errors in intra‐ and inter‐day were within ±7.6%, the coefficient of variation was 8.9% or less for quality control low, medium, and high, and it was 15.8% or less for lower limit of quantitation. Moreover, the patient samples were successfully quantified, and they were within the linear range of measurements. Therefore, our new method may be useful for TDM in lung‐transplanted patients.
Metabolomic analysis of plasma from normal‐weight adults with hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia by UPLC–QTOF MS
Authors: Han Pei , Man Jin , Hao Yun , Wu Longjie , Wang Jia , Yang Wenjie , Wang Fudi , Tian Yongmei
Published: January 2021

High‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) is negatively correlated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The prevalence of hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia is as high as 33.9%. The plasma metabolomic differences between hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia populations and normal controls were investigated using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Participants with hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia and normal controls were clearly discriminated from each other on the orthogonal partial least squares–discriminant analysis score plot and a total of 90 differential metabolites were identified, including down‐regulated phosphatidylserine [18:0/20:3(8Z,11Z,14Z)], phosphatidylcholine [19:0/18:3(6Z,9Z,12Z)], phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine [18:0/20:4(5Z,8Z,11Z,13E) (15Ke)], etc., and up‐regulated triglyceride [15:0/18:1(9Z)/18:3(9Z,12Z,15Z)][iso6], 13‐methyl‐1‐tritriacontene, tridodecylamine, etc. Most of the changed metabolites were lipids, notably, a significant part of which were odd chain fatty acid incorporated lipids. Carnitine shuttle was the most significant metabolic pathway, except for the disturbed glycerophospholipid metabolism, glycosphingolipid metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism in participants with hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia. We identified the key metabolites and metabolic pathways that may be changed in hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia participants, providing useful clues for studying the metabolic mechanisms and for early prevention of hypo‐HDL cholesterolemia and dyslipidemia.
Quality evaluation of rhubarb based on qualitative analysis of the HPLC fingerprint and UFLC–Q‐TOF–MS/MS combined with quantitative analysis of eight anthraquinone glycosides by QAMS
Authors: Dou Zhihua , Dai Ying , Zhou Yunzhong , Wang Shengnan
Published: January 2021

Rhubarb is one of the most ancient and important herbal medicines, but its current quality evaluation (QE) methods have some limitations. In this study, a new method was developed for the comprehensive QE of rhubarb. First, fingerprints of 28 batches of three species of rhubarb samples were determined by HPLC, the reference fingerprint was established and the common peaks were assigned. Second, the components of common peaks in the fingerprints were identified by ultrafast liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Finally, a method for the simultaneous determination of the contents of eight anthraquinone glycosides in rhubarb using quantitative analysis of multiple components by a single marker (QAMS) was established, and the contents of these eight components in 28 batches of rhubarb determined by QAMS and the external standard method were compared. The results showed that there were 31 common peaks in the rhubarb fingerprint. The components of these 31 common peaks were identified, and 20 of them were unambiguously confirmed by reference substances, including eight anthraquinone glycosides. The contents of eight anthraquinone glycosides in the 28 batches of rhubarb determined by QAMS and the external standard method were not significantly different. In conclusion, the method established in this study can be used for the comprehensive QE of rhubarb and can also provide a reference for the QE of other herbal medicines.
A network structure of manic symptoms
Authors: Briganti Giovanni , Kornreich Charles , Linkowski Paul
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study is to explore mania as a network of its symptoms, inspired by the network approach to mental disorders.

Methods

Network structures of both cross‐sectional and temporal effects were measured at three time points (admission, middle of hospital stay, and discharge) in a sample of 100 involuntarily committed patients diagnosed with bipolar I disorder with severe manic features and hospitalized in a specialized psychiatric ward.

Results

Elevated mood is the most interconnected symptom in the network on admission, while aggressive behavior and irritability are highly predictive of each other, as well as language‐thought disorder and “content” (the presence of abnormal ideas or delusions). Elevated mood is influenced by many symptoms in the temporal network.

Conclusions

The investigation of manic symptoms with network analysis allows for identifying important symptoms that are better connected to other symptoms at a given moment and over time. The connectivity of the manic symptoms evolves over time. Central symptoms could be considered as targets for clinical intervention when treating severe mania.
Maternal depression and childhood injury risk: A population‐based cohort study in Denmark
Authors: Lyngsøe Bente Kjær , Munk‐Olsen Trine , Vestergaard Claus Høstrup , Rytter Dorte , Christensen Kaj Sparle , Bech Bodil Hammer
Published: January 2021

Aims

To assess the association between different stages of maternal depression and injury risk in offspring aged 0–10 years.

Methods

Population‐based cohort study of all live‐born children in Denmark from 1 January 1997 until 31 December 2013 (n = 1,064,387). Main outcome measure was emergency department contacts with a main diagnosis of injury coded as DS00‐DT98 (chapter XIX) according to the ICD‐10. All information was obtained from Danish national registries.

Results

Maternal depression was associated with higher injury hazard in the offspring throughout childhood compared to offspring of mothers with no history of depression. The strongest association was seen for the first year of life. First‐time maternal depression was most strongly associated with injury in the child, especially in the first year of life (aHR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.48–1.96). Children of mothers with relapse depression had 1.57 higher hazard of injury in the first year of life (aHR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.44–1.70). Children of mothers with previously treated depression (postdepression) had 1.13 higher hazard of injury in the first year of life (aHR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.09–1.17). Continuous treatment for depression was associated with a nonsignificant higher hazard of injuries in the first year of life (aHR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.91–1.23).

Conclusions

Maternal depression was associated with higher injury risk in the offspring, particularly in early childhood. The association persisted in children of mothers with relapse depression. Our results suggest that children of mothers with depression are vulnerable several years after depression onset and treatment cessation.
Components determining the slowness of information processing in parkinson’s disease
Authors: Arroyo Aida , Periáñez José A. , Ríos‐Lago Marcos , Lubrini Genny , Andreo Jorge , Benito‐León Julián , Louis Elan D. , Romero Juan Pablo
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Bradyphrenia is a key cognitive feature in Parkinson's disease (PD). There is no consensus on whether information processing speed is impaired or not beyond motor performance.

Objective

This study aims to explore which perceptual, motor, or cognitive components of information processing are involved in the slowdown affecting cognitive performance.

Methods

The study included 48 patients with PD (age: 63, 3 ± 8, 18; HY I‐III; UPDRS 15,46 ± 7,76) and 53 healthy controls (age: 60,09 ± 12,83). Five reaction time (RT) tasks were administered to all participants. The average RT in each of the tasks and the percentage of correct answers were measured. Patients with PD were in "ON state" at the time of the evaluation. Perceptual, motor, and cognitive components were isolated by means of a series of ANCOVAs.

Results

As expected, the motor component was slowed down in patients with PD. Moreover, while patients with PD showed slower RT than controls in all tasks, differences between groups did not exponentially increase with the increasing task complexity. ANCOVA analyses also revealed that the perceptual and sustained alert component resulted to be slowed down, with no differences being found in any of the remaining isolated cognitive components (i.e., response strategy‐inhibition, decisional, visual search, or interference control).

Conclusions

The results revealed that slowness of information processing in PD was mainly associated with an impaired processing speed of the motor and perceptual‐alertness components analyzed. The results may help designing new neurorehabilitation strategies, focusing on the improvement of perceptual and alertness mechanisms.
Injection of hybrid 3D spheroids composed of podocytes, mesenchymal stem cells, and vascular endothelial cells into the renal cortex improves kidney function and replenishes glomerular podocytes
Authors: Yang Wen‐Yu , Chen Li‐Chi , Jhuang Ya‐Ting , Lin Yu‐Jie , Hung Pei‐Yu , Ko Yi‐Ching , Tsai Meng‐Yu , Lee Yun‐Wei , Hsu Li‐Wen , Yeh Chih‐Kuang , Hsu Hsiang‐Hao , Huang Chieh‐Cheng
Published: January 2021

Podocytes are highly differentiated epithelial cells that are crucial for maintaining the glomerular filtration barrier in the kidney. Podocyte injury followed by depletion is the major cause of pathological progression of kidney diseases. Although cell therapy has been considered a promising alternative approach to kidney transplantation for the treatment of kidney injury, the resultant therapeutic efficacy in terms of improved renal function is limited, possibly owing to significant loss of engrafted cells. Herein, hybrid three‐dimensional (3D) cell spheroids composed of podocytes, mesenchymal stem cells, and vascular endothelial cells were designed to mimic the glomerular microenvironment and as a cell delivery vehicle to replenish the podocyte population by cell transplantation. After creating a native glomerulus‐like condition, the expression of multiple genes encoding growth factors and basement membrane factors that are strongly associated with podocyte maturation and functionality was significantly enhanced. Our in vivo results demonstrated that intrarenal transplantation of podocytes in the form of hybrid 3D cell spheroids improved engraftment efficiency and replenished glomerular podocytes. Moreover, the proteinuria of the experimental mice with hypertensive nephropathy was effectively reduced. These data clearly demonstrated the potential of hybrid 3D cell spheroids for repairing injured kidneys.
Subcellular Localisation of a Quinoline‐Containing Fluorescent Cyclometallated IrIII Complex in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Melis Diana R. , Hsiao Chiao‐Yu , Combrinck Jill M. , Wiesner Lubbe , Smith Gregory S.
Published: January 2021

A fluorescent analogue of a previously synthesised N,N‐chelated IrIII complex was prepared by coordination of the organic ligand to an extrinsic bis(2‐phenylpyridine)iridium(III) fluorophore. This cyclometallated IrIII complex in itself displays good, micromolar activity against the chloroquine‐sensitive NF54 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. Live‐cell confocal microscopy found negligible localisation of the fluorescent complex within the digestive vacuole of the parasite. This eliminated the haem detoxification pathway as a potential mechanism of action. Similarly, no localisation of the complex within the parasitic nucleus was found, thus suggesting that this complex probably does not interfere with the DNA replication process. A substantial saturation of fluorescence from the complex was found near phospholipid structures such as the plasma and nuclear membranes but not in neutral lipid bodies. This indicates that an association with these membranes, or organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum or branched mitochondrion, could be essential to the efficacies of these types of antimalarial compounds.
Artificial Organelles: Towards Adding or Restoring Intracellular Activity
Authors: Oerlemans Roy A. J. F. , Timmermans Suzanne B. P. E. , van Hest Jan C. M.
Published: January 2021

Compartmentalization is one of the main characteristics that define living systems. Creating a physically separated microenvironment allows nature a better control over biological processes, as is clearly specified by the role of organelles in living cells. Inspired by this phenomenon, researchers have developed a range of different approaches to create artificial organelles: compartments with catalytic activity that add new function to living cells. In this review we will discuss three complementary lines of investigation. First, orthogonal chemistry approaches are discussed, which are based on the incorporation of catalytically active transition metal‐containing nanoparticles in living cells. The second approach involves the use of premade hybrid nanoreactors, which show transient function when taken up by living cells. The third approach utilizes mostly genetic engineering methods to create bio‐based structures that can be ultimately integrated with the cell's genome to make them constitutively active. The current state of the art and the scope and limitations of the field will be highlighted with selected examples from the three approaches.
Small bowel obstruction secondary to primary enterolith: A rare and delayed complication of radiation enteritis
Authors: Seretis Charalampos , Archer Lucy , Elhassan Mohammed Ali , Gurung Deborah , Palit Amitabh , Zayyan Kassim
Published: January 2021

Primary enteroliths as a result of pelvic radiotherapy are a rare cause of intestinal obstruction.
New onset of sinoatrial block in a young patient treated with systemic meglumine antimoniate
Authors: Daadaa Najla , Youssef Soumaya , Haggui Abdeddayem , Harbaoui Sarra , Jaber Kahena , Doss Nejib , Dhaoui Mohamed Raouf
Published: January 2021

The sinoatrial block is a new side effect of meglumine antimoniate. Prompt interruption of the drug results in the normalization of electrographic changes and prevents sudden cardiac arrest.
Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Ionic Liquid System: Promising “Ideal Catalysts” for the Fixation of CO2 into Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Li Zhuo‐Jian , Sun Jian‐Fei , Xu Qin‐Qin , Yin Jian‐Zhong
Published: January 2021

Massive emissions of CO2 have caused environmental problems all over the world. The fixation of CO2 into cyclic carbonates is regarded as an effective way of capturing and utilizing CO2. Ionic liquid catalysts (ILCs) have received great attention and been employed for catalyzing the above reaction in recent years due to their unique properties. However, there are still a few problems requiring solutions in order to finally find the “ideal catalyst”. Herein, we reviewed a number of recent related literature. The progresses of both homogeneous and heterogeneous ILCs were discussed to find out where we are and which directions to work on. The effects of cations and anions of ionic liquids (ILs), functional groups, reaction phase states, structures of supports, preparation methods of supported ionic liquids (SILs), and interactions between the ILs and supports were investigated systematically. Accordingly, basic principles of designing ILCs for the title reaction are summarized and directions of future investigations are highlighted.
Aerobic Alcohol Oxidation by a Zeolitic Octahedral Metal Oxide based on Iron Vanadomolybdates Under Mild Conditions
Authors: Zhu Qianqian , Yin Shanshan , Zhou Mengyuan , Wang Jie , Chen Chaomin , Hu Panpan , Jiang Xizhuo , Zhang Zhenxin , Li Yanshuo , Ueda Wataru
Published: January 2021

Zeolitic octahedral metal oxides are fully‐inorganic crystalline materials with the multi‐component redox property and the intrinsic microporosity. The redox active zeolitic iron vanadomolybdate acts as a catalyst for aerobic oxidation of primary aromatic alcohols. Molecular oxygen is able to be activated in the material due to the confinement effect of the micropore and the unique redox property of the framework. Different primary aromatic alcohols are oxidized by the material, and high alcohol conversion and aldehyde selectivity are achieved. The material is stable and able to be reused for 5 times without loss of activity.
Upscaling Effects on Alkali Metal‐Grafted Ultrastable Y Zeolite Extrudates for Modeled Catalytic Deoxygenation of Bio‐oils
Authors: Hernández‐Giménez Ana M. , de Kort Laura M. , Whiting Gareth T. , Hernando Héctor , Puértolas Begoña , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier , Serrano David P. , Bruijnincx Pieter C. A. , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: January 2021

Developing efficient solid catalysts is necessary when for example moving from batch chemistry to continuous flow systems. In this work, scale‐up effects of zeolite‐based catalyst materials have been tested in aldol condensation as a model reaction for bio‐oil upgrading via deoxygenation. For this purpose, shaped catalyst bodies were obtained via extrusion of ultrastable Y zeolite (USY) using either attapulgite (Att.) or bentonite (Bent.) as clay binder, followed by post‐alkali metal ion grafting of K+after (rather than before) extrusion. This approach proved essential to preserve the catalysts’ crystallinity. The Att.‐bound catalyst body was more active than its Bent.‐counterpart, correlating well with the observed changes in physicochemical properties. The K‐(USY/Att.) catalyst showed new basic oxygen and strong Lewis acidic sites resulting from clay incorporation, in addition to the Lewis acid (K+) and basic sites (K−OH) created upon grafting. For K‐(USY/Bent.), the grafting proved less efficient, likely due to pore blockage caused by the binder. Bent. addition resulted in acid sites of moderate Brønsted and strong Lewis acidity, but hardly any of the basicity desired for the aldol condensation reaction. The poor potassium grafting yet led to some cation exchange with the binder (likely with the Na+naturally present in the Bent. material). The results obtained demonstrate the critical importance of the choice of the binder material and the synthesis protocol adopted for upscaling solid base materials in the form of catalyst bodies.
Reductive Coupling of (Fluoro)pyridines by Linear 3d‐Metal(I) Silylamides of Cr–Co: A Tale of C−C Bond Formation, C−F Bond Cleavage and a Pyridyl Radical Anion
Authors: Müller Igor , Werncke Christian Gunnar
Published: January 2021

Herein, we disclose the facile reduction of pyridine (and its derivatives) by linear 3d‐metal(I) silylamides (M=Cr–Co). This reaction resulted in intermolecular C−C coupling to give dinuclear metal(II) complexes bearing a bridging 4,4′‐dihydrobipyridyl ligand. For iron, we demonstrated that the C−C coupling is reversible in solution, either directly or by reaction with substrates, via a presumed monomeric metal(II) complex bearing a pyridyl radical anion. In the course of this investigation, we also observed that the dinuclear metal(II) complex incorporating iron facilitated the isomerisation of 1,4‐cyclohexadiene to 1,3‐cyclohexadiene as well as equimolar amounts of benzene and cyclohexene. Furthermore, we synthesised and structurally characterised a non‐3d‐metal‐bound pyridyl radical anion. The reactions of the silylamides with perfluoropyridine led to C−F bond cleavage with the formation of metal(II) fluoride complexes of manganese, iron and cobalt along with the homocoupling or reductive degradation of the substrate. In the case of cobalt, the use of lesser fluorinated pyridines led to C−F bond cleavage but no homocoupling. Overall, in this paper we provide insights into the multifaceted behaviour of simple (fluoro)pyridines in the presence of moderately to highly reducing metal complexes.
Developments in the Dehydrogenative Electrochemical Synthesis of 3,3′,5,5′‐Tetramethyl‐2,2′‐biphenol
Authors: Gleede Barbara , Selt Maximilian , Franke Robert , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: January 2021

The symmetric biphenol 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethyl‐2,2′‐biphenol is a well‐known ligand building block and is used in transition‐metal catalysis. In the literature, there are several synthetic routes for the preparation of this exceptional molecule. Herein, the focus is on the sustainable electrochemical synthesis of 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethyl‐2,2′‐biphenol. A brief overview of the developmental history of this inconspicuous molecule, which is of great interest for technical applications, but has many challenges for its synthesis, is provided. The electro‐organic method is a powerful, sustainable, and efficient alternative to conventional synthesis to obtain this symmetric biphenol up to the kilogram scale. Another section of this article is devoted to different process management strategies in batch‐type and flow electrolysis and their respective advantages.
Clinical outcome of patients with recurrent or refractory localized Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors: A retrospective report from the Japan Ewing Sarcoma Study Group
Authors: Umeda Katsutsugu , Miyamura Takako , Yamada Kenji , Sano Hideki , Hosono Ako , Sumi Minako , Okita Hajime , Kumamoto Tadashi , Kawai Akira , Hirayama Junya , Jyoko Ryoji , Sawada Akihisa , Nakayama Hideki , Hosoya Yosuke , Maeda Naoko , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Imai Chihaya , Hasegawa Daiichiro , Chin Motoaki , Ozaki Toshifumi ,   Japan Ewing Sarcoma Study Group
Published: January 2021

Background

Patients with Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT) who experience relapse or progression have a poor prognosis.

Aim

This study aimed to identify the prognostic and therapeutic factors affecting overall survival (OS) of patients with recurrent or refractory localized ESFT.

Methods and results

Thirty‐eight patients with localized ESFT who experienced first relapse or progression between 2000 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The 5‐year OS rate of the entire cohort was 48.3% (95% confidence interval, 29.9%‐64.5%). Multivariate analysis of OS identified time to relapse or progression, but not stem cell transplantation (SCT), as the sole independent risk factor (hazard ratio, 35.8; P = .002). Among 31 patients who received salvage chemotherapy before local treatment, 21 received chemotherapy regimens that are not conventionally used for newly diagnosed ESFT. The objective response rate to first‐line salvage chemotherapy was 55.2% in the 29 evaluable patients. Time to relapse or progression was significantly associated with response to first‐line salvage chemotherapy (P = .006).

Conclusions

The present study fails to demonstrate significant clinical benefit of SCT for recurrent or refractory localized ESFT. Recently established chemotherapy regimens may increase the survival rate of patients with recurrent or refractory localized ESFT while attenuating the beneficial effect of SCT.
Pharmacokinetics of Gepotidacin in Subjects With Normal Hepatic Function and Hepatic Impairment
Authors: Hossain Mohammad , Tiffany Courtney , Tao Yu , Barth Aline , Marbury Thomas C. , Preston Richard A. , Dumont Etienne
Published: January 2021

Gepotidacin is a novel triazaacenaphthylene bacterial topoisomerase inhibitor. This phase 1 nonrandomized, open‐label, multicenter, 2‐part study evaluated the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of oral gepotidacin 1500 mg in 3 different hepatic settings (normal, moderate impairment, and severe impairment). Gepotidacin was safe and generally tolerated in all subjects. Compared to subjects with normal hepatic function, gepotidacin plasma area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC0–∞) and maximum concentration significantly increased by 1.7‐ and 1.9‐fold, respectively, in severe hepatic impairment; increases in moderate impairment were not statistically significant. No significant effect was observed for gepotidacin plasma elimination half‐life (geometric mean range, 8.2–9.1 hours) across hepatic groups. Renal clearance increased in moderate (16%) and severe (52%) hepatic impairment vs normal. The mean fraction of gepotidacin dose excreted in urine increased with increasing hepatic impairment (normal, 7.5%; moderate, 11.2%; and severe, 19.9%). Urine gepotidacin concentrations remained high for 12 hours in all hepatic groups after dosing. Saliva gepotidacin concentrations displayed a linear relationship with plasma concentrations (R2 = 0.76). The ratio of saliva AUC to unbound plasma AUC and elimination half‐life were not affected by hepatic impairment. These data indicate that gepotidacin dose adjustment is not required in mild to moderate hepatic impairment; severe hepatic impairment may require increases in dosing interval or dose reduction.
A 3D‐Printed Open Access Photoreactor Designed for Versatile Applications in Photoredox‐ and Photoelectrochemical Synthesis**
Authors: Schiel Florian , Peinsipp Christoph , Kornigg Stefan , Böse Dietrich
Published: January 2021

Most published photochemical reactions are still not performed under standardized conditions. It is well known that the control of light intensity, the exact reaction temperature and other parameters are crucial for the success of a photochemical reaction. However, for most reactions reported in the literature, these parameters are not precisely controlled and recorded. As a result, the reproduction of these reactions is difficult and the progress in the field of photoredox chemistry is hampered by this limitation. To address this problem, a 3D‐printed photoreactor was designed which can be easily replicated with a small number of inexpensive and easily available components. Equipped with thermoelectric coolers, the reactor can access and precisely control the temperature in the range of −17 °C to 80 °C, while reactions under high‐intensity irradiation are performed with LED lamps from Kessil or HepatoChem. The practical design of the vial holder allows a versatile use of different reaction vessels – in addition to fast reaction optimization with up to eight vials simultaneously, upscaling in batch and flow is easily possible. Due to the high light intensity, the catalyst loading can be reduced to 0.1 mol % for large‐scale reactions. The flexibility of the vial holder is demonstrated by combining IKA's ElectraSyn 2.0 with the photoreactor to perform photoelectrochemical reactions in a reproducible manner.
Specific adaptation for early maturity and height stability in Icelandic spring barley
Authors: Göransson Magnus , Hallsteinn Hallsson Jón , Bengtsson Therése , Bjørnstad Åsmund , Lillemo Morten
Published: January 2021

Cereal production in important growing regions is negatively influenced by climate change. This can be countered by expanding cereal production northwards in Scandinavia and Iceland, where today, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is primarily used as feed, as it rarely reaches malting quality. This study explores genetic factors underlying the ability of barley to mature fully in low temperature and long photoperiod. A panel of 84 spring barley lines were grown in controlled environments with different day lengths and temperatures, partially mimicking the target environment. The panel was screened for accumulated heat sum to heading, maturity, and height, all traits of importance for adaptation to the northern periphery. Subgroups with different stability and heat sum requirements were found, and day‐length‐neutral lines were identified. Height was temperature controlled, with lower temperature resulting in taller plants. The results were coupled to a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). Despite the small panel size, the Mat‐a locus was identified to have the strongest association with heat sum to heading; Ppd‐H1, Mat‐a, FT1, and DHAR2 with heat sum to maturity; and GA20ox1 with height. Early maturing lines with height stability have successfully been developed in Iceland, and this study confirms their performance in controlled environments for the first time. It provides insight to the mechanisms behind early maturity that will increase our ability to further adapt barley and other cereals to the northern climate. This will facilitate breeding work toward combining early maturity and height stability with traits such as quality, further enabling the northward expansion of grain production.
An improved approach for mining association rules in parallel using Spark Streaming
Authors: Liu Longtao , Wen Jiabao , Zheng Zexun , Su Hansong
Published: January 2021

Parallel computing is an effective method to solve computationally large and data‐intensive problems. The traditional data mining algorithm cannot mining association rules for large amounts of streaming data in a timely and effectively. In order to improve the speed and accuracy of association rules mining, distributed and parallel algorithms have become a research focus. This paper proposes a parallel FP‐growth approach using Spark Streaming, called SSPFP, which can parallel mining frequent itemsets and association rules in real‐time streaming data. In this paper, the proposed SSPFP algorithm is applied to mining the association rules between temperature and salinity in marine Argo data. The experimental results indicate that SSPFP algorithm is efficient for association rules mining.
Data from a microdosed recombinant human erythropoietin administration study applying the new biotinylated clone AE7A5 antibody and a further optimized sarcosyl polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis protocol
Authors: Reichel Christian , Erceg Damir , Lorenc Barbara , Scheiblhofer Veronika , Farmer Letizia , Zanitzer Katharina , Geisendorfer Thomas , Gmeiner Günter , Thevis Mario
Published: January 2021

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. Due to its performance‐enhancing effect, it is prohibited by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA). In order to reduce the detection window of EPO doping, athletes have been applying low doses of recombinant EPO (e.g., <10 IU/kg body weight, daily or every second day) instead of larger doses twice or more per week (e.g., 30 IU/kg). Microdoses of Retacrit (epoetin zeta), an EPO biosimilar, were administered intravenously and subcutaneously to human males and females. Urine and serum samples were collected and analysed applying the new biotinylated clone AE7A5 EPO antibody and a further optimized sarcosyl polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SAR‐PAGE) protocol. With the improved protocol, microdosed Retacrit (7.5 IU/kg body weight [BW]) was detectable for at least 52 h after intravenous administration. Detection windows were approximately the same for serum and urine and doubled after subcutaneous administration (~104 h). Previous studies applying different electrophoretic techniques and the not further optimized SAR‐PAGE protocol revealed considerably shorter detection windows for recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) microdoses. Because the new biotinylated antibody performed significantly more sensitive than the nonbiotinylated version, the new protocol will improve the sensitivity and hence detectability of recombinant EPO in doping control.
A review of nicotine‐containing electronic cigarettes—Trends in use, effects, contents, labelling accuracy and detection methods
Authors: Taylor Amelia , Dunn Keeley , Turfus Sophie
Published: January 2021

Electronic cigarettes (ECs) are thought to be less harmful than traditional combustible cigarettes and were originally intended to help smokers quit. Over the past two decades, they have especially gained popularity with the younger generation. To date, there are over 7000 unique e‐liquid flavours available and over 400 different e‐cigarette brands. The accuracy of nicotine strength labelling in e‐liquids was assessed in this work. Twenty‐three studies from around the world were chosen to assess the level and frequency of nicotine mislabelling in 545 e‐liquid products. Nicotine strengths were most commonly mislabelled by between 5% and 20%, with the majority testing lower than what the label indicated. Fifteen European e‐liquids that were assessed were labelled as 20 mg/ml or less, yet when tested, they contained more than 20 mg/ml of nicotine. One e‐liquid that was supposed to contain no nicotine in fact contained 23.91 mg/ml of nicotine. Furthermore, the difference between the medians of the available labelled and experimental nicotine concentrations was significant (p < 0.001, Wilcoxon signed rank test). Preliminary studies show that high nicotine levels delivered via aerosol increase the risk for nicotine poisoning and cause airway inflammation. Other EC ingredients, such as flavourings, contribute to EVALI and ‘popcorn lung’. There is evidence that certain flavourings, such as menthol, reinforce the effects of nicotine and modify drug absorption and metabolism. There is a global need for better quality control in EC products in order to make these safe for consumers.
Effect of retinoic acid signaling on Ripply3 expression and pharyngeal arch morphogenesis in mouse embryos
Authors: Okubo Tadashi , Hara Keiko , Azuma Sadahiro , Takada Shinji
Published: January 2021

Background

Pharyngeal arches (PA) are sequentially generated in an anterior‐to‐posterior order. Ripply3 is essential for posterior PA development in mouse embryos and its expression is sequentially activated in ectoderm and endoderm prior to formation of each PA. Since the PA phenotype of Ripply3 knockout (KO) mice is similar to that of retinoic acid (RA) signal‐deficient embryos, we investigated the relationship between RA signaling and Ripply3 in mouse embryos.

Results

In BMS493 (pan‐RAR antagonist) treated embryos, which are defective in third and fourth PA development, Ripply3 expression is decreased in the region posterior to PA2 at E9.0. This expression remains and its distribution is expanded posteriorly at E9.5. Conversely, high dose RA exposure does not apparently change its expression at E9.0 and 9.5. Knockout of retinaldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (Raldh2), which causes more severe PA defect, attenuates sequential Ripply3 expression at PA1 and reduces its expression level. EGFP reporter expression driven by a 6 kb Ripply3 promoter fragment recapitulates the endogenous Ripply3 mRNA expression during PA development in wild‐type, but its distribution is expanded posteriorly in BMS493‐treated and Raldh2 KO embryos.

Conclusion

Spatio‐temporal regulation of Ripply3 expression by RA signaling is indispensable for the posterior PA development in mouse.