bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In–Situ‐Sprayed Dual‐Functional Immunotherapeutic Gel for Colorectal Cancer Postsurgical Treatment
Authors: Si Xinghui , Ji Guofeng , Ma Sheng , Xu Yudi , Zhao Jiayu , Zhang Yu , Huang Zichao , Tang Zhaohui , Song Wantong , Chen Xuesi
Published: August 2021

Surgery remains the most preferred treatment options for colorectal cancer (CRC). Paradoxically, local recurrence and distant metastasis are usually accelerated postsurgery as a consequence of local and systemic immunosuppression caused by surgery. Therefore, modulating tumor postoperative immune microenvironment and activating systemic antitumor immunity are necessary supplementaries for CRC therapy. Here, an in‐situ‐sprayed immunotherapeutic gel loaded with anti‐OX40 antibody (iSGels@aOX40) is reported for CRC postsurgical treatment. The iSGel is formed instantly after spraying with strong adhesion ability via crosslinking between tannic acid (TA) and poly(l‐glutamic acid)‐g‐methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)/phenyl boronic acid (PLG‐g‐mPEG/PBA). TA not only serves as one component of the iSGel but also relieves the postsurgical immunosuppressive microenvironment by inhibiting the activity of cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). The aOX40 serves as an immune agonistic antibody and is released from the iSGel in a constant manner lasting for over 20 days. In a subcutaneous murine CRC model, the iSGels@aOX40 results in complete inhibition on tumor recurrence. In addition, the cured mice show resistance to tumor re‐challenge, suggesting that immune memory effects are established after the iSGels@aOX40 treatment. In an orthotopic CRC peritoneal metastatic model, the iSGels@aOX40 also remarkably inhibits the growth of the abdominal metastatic tumors, suggesting great potential for clinical CRC therapy.
Uranium In Situ Electrolytic Deposition with a Reusable Functional Graphene‐Foam Electrode
Authors: Wang Chao , Helal Ahmed S. , Wang Ziqiang , Zhou Jian , Yao Xiahui , Shi Zhe , Ren Yang , Lee Jinhyuk , Chang Jeng‐Kuei , Fugetsu Bunshi , Li Ju
Published: August 2021

Nuclear fission produces 400 GWe which represents 11% of the global electricity output. Uranium is the essential element as both fission fuel and radioactive waste. Therefore, the recovery of uranium is of great importance. Here, an in situ electrolytic deposition method to extract uranium from aqueous solution is reported. A functionalized reduced graphene oxide foam (3D‐FrGOF) is used as the working electrode, which acts as both a hydrogen evolution reaction catalyst and a uranium deposition substrate. The specific electrolytic deposition capacity for U(VI) ions with the 3D‐FrGOF is 4560 mg g−1 without reaching saturation, and the Coulombic efficiency can reach 54%. Moreover, reduction of the uranium concentration in spiked seawater from 3 ppm to 19.9 ppb is achieved, which is lower than the US Environmental Protection Agency uranium limits for drinking water (30 ppb). Furthermore, the collection electrode can be efficiently regenerated and recycled at least nine times without much efficiency fading, by ejecting into 2000 ppm concentrated uranium solution in a second bath with reverse voltage bias. All these findings open new opportunities in using free‐standing 3D‐FrGOF electrode as an advanced separation technique for water treatment.
Algorithms for activity correction models for geochemical speciation and reactive transport modeling
Authors: Carrayrou Jérôme , Bertagnolli Caroline , Fahs Marwan
Published: August 2021

Reactive transport softwares are today one of the cornerstones of environmental research. They contain multiphysics with very complex algorithms, including flow, transport, chemical, and sometimes heat transport, mechanical, and/or biological algorithms. Because of this complexity, some parts of these algorithms still have not been sufficiently studied. In this work, we focus on algorithms for activity correction, a specific subset of equilibrium chemistry algorithms. We show that the most used algorithm (the inner fixed‐point algorithm) or the most rigorous algorithm (the full Newton) might not be the most efficient, and we propose a new one, the outer fixed‐point algorithm, which is more robust and faster than other algorithms.
Technical note: Estimating original crown height in worn mandibular canines using aspects of dentin morphology
Authors: McFarlane Gina , Floyd Bruce , Smith Caitlin , Mahoney Patrick
Published: August 2021

We present a novel method to estimate original crown height (OCH) for worn human mandibular canines using a cubic regression equation based on ratios of worn crown height and exposed dentin. This method may help alleviate issues frequently presented by worn teeth in dental analyses, including those in bioarchaeology. Mandibular canines (n = 28) from modern day New Zealand and English populations were selected. Crown height and dentin thickness were measured on dental thin sections (n = 19) and the resulting (log10) ratios were fitted to a cubic regression curve allowing OCH in worn crowns to be predicted. Variation in the dentin apex position was recorded and effects of angled wear slopes investigated allowing adjusted values to be generated. Our method is trialed for use on intact and sectioned teeth (n = 17). A cubic regression curve best describes the relationship between (log10) ratios and crown height deciles (R2 = 0.996, df1 = 3, df2 = 336, p < 0.001). No significant differences were detected between OCH estimates using our method and digitally recreated cusp outlines of the same crowns (t = 1.024, df = 16, p > 0.05), with a mean absolute error of 0.171 mm and an adjusted coefficient of determination of 0.923. Our approach offers a quantitative method to estimate the percentage of OCH remaining on worn mandibular canines, and by extension, the OCH. Our estimates are comparable to digitally recreated cusps but less subjective and not limited to crowns with minimal wear.
Key Features of Polyimide‐Derived Carbon Molecular Sieves
Authors: Qiu Wulin , Leisen Johannes E. , Liu Zhongyun , Quan Wenying , Koros William J.
Published: August 2021

Carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes have impressive separation properties; however, both chemical and morphology structures need to be understood better. Here we characterize CMS with the simplest polyimide (PI) PMDA/pPDA (PMDA=pyromellitic dianhydride, pPDA=p‐phenylenediamine), using FTIR, solid‐state 15N‐NMR and 13C‐NMR, XPS, XRD, and Raman spectra to study chemical structure. We also compare gas separation properties for this CMS to a CMS derived from a more conventional PI precursor. The detailed characterization shows the presence of aromatic pyridinic, pyrrolic rings as well as graphitic, pyridonic components and a few other groups in both CMS types derived from the very different precursors. The CMS morphologies, while related to precursor and pyrolysis temperature details, show similarities consistent with a physical picture comprising distributed molecular sieving plate‐like structures. These results assist in understanding diverse CMS membrane separation performance.
Tailoring the Local Environment of Platinum in Single‐Atom Pt1/CeO2 Catalysts for Robust Low‐Temperature CO Oxidation
Authors: Jiang Dong , Yao Yonggang , Li Tangyuan , Wan Gang , Pereira‐Hernández Xavier Isidro , Lu Yubing , Tian Jinshu , Khivantsev Konstantin , Engelhard Mark H. , Sun Chengjun , García‐Vargas Carlos E. , Hoffman Adam S. , Bare Simon R. , Datye Abhaya K. , Hu Liangbing , Wang Yong
Published: August 2021

A single‐atom Pt1/CeO2 catalyst formed by atom trapping (AT, 800 °C in air) shows excellent thermal stability but is inactive for CO oxidation at low temperatures owing to over‐stabilization of Pt2+ in a highly symmetric square‐planar Pt1O4 coordination environment. Reductive activation to form Pt nanoparticles (NPs) results in enhanced activity; however, the NPs are easily oxidized, leading to drastic activity loss. Herein we show that tailoring the local environment of isolated Pt2+ by thermal‐shock (TS) synthesis leads to a highly active and thermally stable Pt1/CeO2 catalyst. Ultrafast shockwaves (>1200 °C) in an inert atmosphere induced surface reconstruction of CeO2 to generate Pt single atoms in an asymmetric Pt1O4 configuration. Owing to this unique coordination, Pt1δ+ in a partially reduced state dynamically evolves during CO oxidation, resulting in exceptional low‐temperature performance. CO oxidation reactivity on the Pt1/CeO2_TS catalyst was retained under oxidizing conditions.
A Congruent‐Melting Mid‐Infrared Nonlinear Optical Vanadate Exhibiting Strong Second‐Harmonic Generation
Authors: Wu Chao , Jiang Xingxing , Lin Lin , Hu Yilei , Wu Tianhui , Lin Zheshuai , Huang Zhipeng , Humphrey Mark G. , Zhang Chi
Published: August 2021

Study of mid‐infrared (mid‐IR) nonlinear optical (NLO) materials is hindered by the competing requirements of optimized second‐harmonic generation (SHG) coefficient dij and laser‐induced damage threshold (LIDT) as well as the harsh synthetic conditions. Herein, we report facile hydrothermal synthesis of a polar NLO vanadate Cs4V8O22 (CVO) featuring a quasi‐rigid honeycomb‐layered structure with [VO4] and [VO5] polyhedra aligned parallel. CVO possesses a wide IR‐transparent window, high LIDT, and congruent‐melting behavior. It has very strong phase‐matchable SHG intensities in metal vanadate family (12.0 × KDP @ 1064 nm and 2.2 × AGS @ 2100 nm). First‐principles calculations suggest that the exceptional SHG responses of CVO largely originate from virtual electronic transitions within [V4O11]∞ layer; the excellent optical transmittance of CVO arises from the special characteristics of vibrational phonons resulting from the layered structure.
Regio‐controllable Cobalt‐Catalyzed Sequential Hydrosilylation/Hydroboration of Arylacetylenes
Authors: Cheng Zhaoyang , Guo Jun , Sun Yufeng , Zheng Yushan , Zhou Zhehong , Lu Zhan
Published: August 2021

Regiodivergent addition reactions provide straightforward and atom‐economic approaches to access different regioisomers. However, the regio‐chemistry control to access all the possible results is still challenging especially for the reaction involving multiple addition steps. Herein, we reported regio‐controllable cobalt‐catalyzed sequential hydrosilylation/hydroboration of arylacetylenes, delivering all the possible regio‐outcomes with high regioselectivities (up to >20/1 rr for all the cases). Each regioisomer of value‐added silylboronates could be efficiently and regioselectively obtained from the same materials. The adjustment of the ligands of cobalt catalysts combined with dual catalysis relay strategy is the key to achieve regio‐chemistry control. This regio‐controllable research might inspire the exploration of the diversity‐oriented synthesis that involves multiple additions and provide full sets of regioisomers of other synthetic useful molecules.
Feedback and Communication in Active Hydrogel Spheres with pH Fronts: Facile Approaches to Grow Soft Hydrogel Structures
Authors: Maity Indrajit , Sharma Charu , Lossada Francisco , Walther Andreas
Published: August 2021

Compartmentalized reaction networks regulating signal processing, communication and pattern formation are central to living systems. Towards achieving life‐like materials, we compartmentalized urea‐urease and more complex urea‐urease/ester‐esterase pH‐feedback reaction networks into hydrogel spheres and investigate how fuel‐driven pH fronts can be sent out from these spheres and regulated by internal reaction networks. Membrane characteristics are installed by covering urease spheres with responsive hydrogel shells. We then encapsulate the two networks (urea‐urease and ester‐esterase) separately into different hydrogel spheres to devise communication, pattern formation and attraction. Moreover, these pH fronts and patterns can be used for self‐growing hydrogels, and for developing complex geometries from non‐injectable hydrogels without 3D printing tools. This study opens possibilities for compartmentalized feedback reactions and their use in next generation materials fabrication.
Quick and Easy Method to Dramatically Improve the Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Activity of an Iron Porphyrin Complex
Authors: Kosugi Kento , Kondo Mio , Masaoka Shigeyuki
Published: August 2021

The development of artificial molecular catalysts for CO2 reduction is the key to solving energy and environmental problems. Although chemical modifications can generally improve the catalytic activity of this class of compounds, they often require complicated synthetic procedures. Here, we report a simple procedure that dramatically enhances electrochemical CO2 reduction activity. A one‐step counteranion‐exchange reaction increased the solubility of a commercially available catalyst, iron(III) tetraphenylporphyrin chloride, in a variety of solvents, allowing the investigation of its catalytic performance under various conditions. Surprisingly, the turnover frequency for CO evolution in acetonitrile (MeCN) reached 7 300 000 s−1, which is the highest among those of current best‐in‐class molecular catalysts. This excellent catalytic activity originates from the unique reaction between the generated FeI species and CO2 in MeCN during catalysis. The present study offers a “quick and easy” method for obtaining an efficient catalytic system for electrochemical CO2 reduction.
Asymmetric Cation‐Olefin Monocyclization by Engineered Squalene–Hopene Cyclases
Authors: Eichenberger Michael , Hüppi Sean , Patsch David , Aeberli Natalie , Berweger Raphael , Dossenbach Sandro , Eichhorn Eric , Flachsmann Felix , Hortencio Lucas , Voirol Francis , Vollenweider Sabine , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Buller Rebecca
Published: August 2021

Squalene–hopene cyclases (SHCs) have great potential for the industrial synthesis of enantiopure cyclic terpenoids. A limitation of SHC catalysis has been the enzymes’ strict (S)‐enantioselectivity at the stereocenter formed after the first cyclization step. To gain enantio‐complementary access to valuable monocyclic terpenoids, an SHC‐wild‐type library including 18 novel homologs was set up. A previously not described SHC (AciSHC) was found to synthesize small amounts of monocyclic (R)‐γ‐dihydroionone from (E/Z)‐geranylacetone. Using enzyme and process optimization, the conversion to the desired product was increased to 79 %. Notably, analyzedAciSHC variants could finely differentiate between the geometric geranylacetone isomers: While the (Z)‐isomer yielded the desired monocyclic (R)‐γ‐dihydroionone (>99 %ee), the (E)‐isomer was converted to the (S,S)‐bicyclic ether (>95 %ee). Applying the knowledge gained from the observed stereodivergent and enantioselective transformations to an additional SHC‐substrate pair, access to the complementary (S)‐γ‐dihydroionone (>99.9 %ee) could be obtained.
Can One Measure Resonance Raman Optical Activity?
Authors: Li Guojie , Alshalalfeh Mutasem , Yang Yanqing , Cheeseman James R. , Bouř Petr , Xu Yunjie
Published: August 2021

Resonance Raman optical activity (RROA) is commonly measured as the difference in intensity of Raman scattered right and left circularly polarized light, IR−IL, when a randomly polarized light is in resonance with a chiral molecule. Strong and sometimes mono‐signate experimental RROA spectra of several chiral solutes were reported previously, although their signs and relative intensities could not be reproduced theoretically. By examining multiple light‐matter interaction events which can occur simultaneously under resonance, we show that a new form of chiral Raman spectroscopy, eCP‐Raman, a combination of electronic circular dichroism and circularly polarized Raman, prevails. By incorporating the finite‐lifetime approach for resonance, the experimental patterns of the model chiral solutes are captured theoretically by eCP‐Raman, without any RROA contribution. The results open opportunity for applications of eCP‐Raman spectroscopy and for extracting true RROA experimentally.
New 3‐(1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)quinolin‐2(1H)‐one‐based triazole derivatives: Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation as antiproliferative and apoptosis‐inducing agents
Authors: Gaikwad Nikhil B. , Bansode Sapana , Biradar Shankar , Ban Mayuri , Srinivas Nanduri , Godugu Chandraiah , Yaddanapudi Venkata M.
Published: August 2021

A series of 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives based on the quinoline–benzimidazole hybrid scaffold was designed, synthesized, and screened against a panel of NCI‐60 humanoid cancer cell lines for in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation, which revealed that compound Q6 was the most potent cytotoxic agent with excellent GI50, TGI, and LC50 values on multiple cancer cell lines. Q6 was tested further on the BT‐474 breast cancer line to evaluate the mechanism of action. Preliminary screening studies based on the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay revealed that compound Q6 had an excellent antiproliferative effect against human breast cancer cells, BT‐474, with IC50 values of 0.59 ± 0.01 μM. The detailed study based on the acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining (AO/EB) and the 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) assay suggested that the antiproliferative activity shown was due to the induction of apoptosis on exposure to Q6. Further, DCFDA staining showed the generation of reactive oxygen species, altering the mitochondrial potential and leading to the initiation of apoptosis. This was further supported by JC‐1 staining, indicating that this scaffold can contribute to the development of more potent derivatives.
American College of Rheumatology Guidance for COVID‐19 Vaccination in Patients With Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases: Version 3
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R. , Johnson Sindhu R. , Anthony Donald D. , Arasaratnam Reuben J. , Baden Lindsey R. , Bass Anne R. , Calabrese Cassandra , Gravallese Ellen M. , Harpaz Rafael , Kroger Andrew , Sadun Rebecca E. , Turner Amy S. , Williams Eleanor Anderson , Mikuls Ted R.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To provide guidance to rheumatology providers on the use of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines for patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

Methods

A task force was assembled that included 9 rheumatologists/immunologists, 2 infectious disease specialists, and 2 public health physicians. After agreeing on scoping questions, an evidence report was created that summarized the published literature and publicly available data regarding COVID‐19 vaccine efficacy and safety, as well as literature for other vaccines in RMD patients. Task force members rated their agreement with draft consensus statements on a 9‐point numerical scoring system, using a modified Delphi process and the RAND/University of California Los Angeles Appropriateness Method, with refinement and iteration over 2 sessions. Consensus was determined based on the distribution of ratings.

Results

Despite a paucity of direct evidence, 74 draft guidance statements were developed by the task force and agreed upon with consensus to provide guidance for use of the COVID‐19 vaccines in RMD patients and to offer recommendations regarding the use and timing of immunomodulatory therapies around the time of vaccination.

Conclusion

These guidance statements, made in the context of limited clinical data, are intended to provide direction to rheumatology health care providers on how to best use COVID‐19 vaccines and to facilitate implementation of vaccination strategies for RMD patients.
Experimental and Theoretical Study on the Interchange between Zr and Ti within the MIL‐125‐NH2 Metal Cluster
Authors: Zeama Mostafa , Morsy Mohamed A. , Abdelnaby Mahmoud , Gutiérrez‐Arzaluz Luis , Mohammed Omar F. , Yamani Zain H.
Published: August 2021

This study aims to investigate the effect of replacing Ti with Zr in the SBU of MIL‐125‐NH2. We were able to replace Ti with Zr in the mixed metal synthesis of MIL‐125‐NH2, for the first time. After experimentally confirming the consistency in their framework structure and comparing their morphology, we related the femtosecond light dynamics with photocatalytic CO2 visible light conversion yield of the different variants in order to establish the composition‐function relation in MIL‐125 vis a vis CO2 reduction. Introducing Zr to the system was found to cause structure defects due to missing linkers. The lifetime of the charge carriers for the mixed metal samples were shorter than that of the MIL‐125‐NH2. The study of CO2 photocatalytic reduction under visible light indicated that the NH2 group enhances the photocatalytic activity while the Zr incorporation inside the MIL framework introduces no significant improvements. In addition, the material systems were modelled and simulated through DFT calculations which concluded that the decrease of the photocatalytic activity is not related to the system electronic structure, insinuating that defects are the culprit.
Green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using Pteris vittata extract and their therapeutic activities
Authors: Jha Anal Kant , Zamani Sabiha , Kumar Antresh
Published: August 2021

The bacterial infections have been substantially increasing with higher mortality and new regimens required for their management. The present work deals with the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using leaf extract of Pteris vittata at pH 9.0. The AgNPs showed a single absorption peak at 407 nm. The morphology of AgNPs was found to be spherical in shape analyzed by scanning electron micrographs. The X‐ray diffraction studies revealed the face‐centered cubic structure of AgNPs with a 17‐nm average crystallite size. They showed the antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the cell growth was completely ceased at the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC); 100 μg/mL, with rapidly decreased cell viability. This bactericidal effect was due to the enhancement of cell permeability caused by cell disruption. The AgNPs lead to show a promising antiquorum‐sensing activity by inhibition of toxin protease and pyocyanin in P. aeruginosa by 88% and, 94% respectively, at the sub‐MIC concentration (0.25× MIC). These results conclude that the green synthesis of AgNPs shows a promising antimicrobial and antivirulence activity against P. aeruginosa.
Immobilization of transgenic plant cells towards bioprinting for production of a recombinant biodefense agent
Authors: Varma Anika , Gemeda Hawi B. , McNulty Matthew J. , McDonald Karen A. , Nandi Somen , Knipe Jennifer M.
Published: August 2021

Transgenic rice cells (Oryza sativa) producing recombinant butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) as a prophylactic/therapeutic against organophosphate nerve agent poisoning, cocaine toxicity, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's were immobilized in a polyethylene glycol‐based hydrogel. The cells were sustained for 14 days in the semi‐solid matrix, undergoing a growth phase from days 0–6, a BChE production phase in sugar‐free medium from days 6–12, and a growth/recovery phase from days 12–14. Throughout this period, the cells maintained similar viability to those in suspension cultures and displayed analogous sugar consumption trends. The rice cells in the hydrogel also produced a significant amount of active BChE, comparable to the levels produced in liquid cultures. A considerable fraction of this BChE was secreted into the media, allowing for easier product separation. To the best of our knowledge, this proof‐of‐concept is the first report of immobilization of recombinant plant cells for continuous production of high‐value heterologous proteins. This work serves as a foundation for further investigation towards plant cell bioprinting and the development of a simple, efficient, robust, modular, and potentially field‐deployable bioreactor system for the manufacture of biologics.
PVA based nanofiber containing cellulose modified with graphitic carbon nitride/nettles/trachyspermum accelerates wound healing
Authors: Nemati Danial , Ashjari Mohsen , Rashedi Hamid , Yazdian Fatemeh , Navaei‐Nigjeh Mona
Published: August 2021

Today, bacterial cellulose has received a great deal of attention for its medical applications due to its unique structural properties such as high porosity, good fluid uptake, good strength, and biocompatibility. This study aimed to fabricate and study bacterial cellulose/graphitic carbon nitride/nettles/trachyspermum nanocomposite by immersion and PVA/BC/g‐C3N4/nettles/trachyspermum nanofiber by electrospinning method as a wound dressing. The g‐C3N4 and g‐C3N4 solution were synthesized and then were characterized using Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, Zeta Potential, and scanning electronic microscope analyzes. Also, the antibacterial properties of the synthesized materials were proved by gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria using the minimum inhibitory concentration method. Besides, the toxicity, migration, and cell proliferation results of the synthesized materials on NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were evaluated using MTT and scratch assays and showed that the BC/PVA/g‐C3N4/nettles/trachyspermum composite not only had no toxic effect on cells but also contributed to cell survival, cell migration, and proliferation has done. To evaluate the mechanical properties, a tensile strength test was performed on PVA/BC/g‐C3N4/nettles/trachyspermum nanofibers, and the results showed good strength of the nanocomposite. In addition, in vivo assay, the produced nanofibers were used to evaluate wound healing, and the results showed that these nanofibers were able to accelerate the wound healing process so that after 14 days, the wound healing percentage showed 95%. Therefore, this study shows that PVA/BC/g‐C3N4/nettles/trachyspermum nanofibers effectively inhibit bacterial growth and accelerate wound healing.
MAGE‐C3 promotes cancer metastasis by inducing epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and immunosuppression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Qingnan , Zhang Weimin , Wang Yan , Min Qingjie , Zhang Hongyue , Dong Dezuo , Zhan Qimin
Published: August 2021

Background

Evading immune surveillance is necessary for tumor metastasis. Thus, there is an urgent need to better understand the interaction between metastasis and mechanisms of tumor immune evasion. In this study, we aimed to clarify a novel mechanism that link tumor metastasis and immunosuppression in the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

The expression of melanoma‐associated antigen C3 (MAGE‐C3) was detected using immunohistochemistry. Transwell assays were used to evaluate the migration and invasion ability of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells. Metastasis assays in mice were used to evaluate metastatic ability in vivo. Lymphocyte‐mediated cytotoxicity assays were performed to visualize the immune suppression function on tumor cells. RNA sequencing was performed to identify differentially expressed genes between MAGE‐C3 overexpressing ESCC cells and control cells. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analyses was performed to identify the most altered pathways influenced by MAGE‐C3. The activation of the interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) pathway was analyzed using Western blotting, GAS luciferase reporter assays, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. The role of MAGE‐C3 in the IFN‐γ pathway was determined by Western blotting and immunoprecipitation. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry analysis monitored the changes of infiltrated T cell populations in murine lung metastases.

Results

MAGE‐C3 was overexpressed in ESCC tissues. High expression of MAGE‐C3 had a significant association with the risk of lymphatic metastasis and poor survival in patients with ESCC. Functional experiments revealed that MAGE‐C3 promoted tumor metastasis by activating the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). MAGE‐C3 repressed antitumor immunity and regulated cytokine secretion of T cells, implying an immunosuppressive function. Mechanistically, MAGE‐C3 facilitated IFN‐γ signaling and upregulated programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD­L1) by binding with IFN‐γ receptor 1 (IFNGR1) and strengthening the interaction between IFNGR1 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1). Interestingly, MAGE‐C3 displayed higher tumorigenesis in immune‐competent mice than in immune‐deficient nude mice, confirming the immunosuppressive role of MAGE‐C3. Furthermore, mice bearing MAGE‐C3‐overexpressing tumors showed worse survival and more lung metastases with decreased CD8+ infiltrated T cells and increased programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1)+CD8+ infiltrated T cells.

Conclusion

MAGE‐C3 enhances tumor metastasis through promoting EMT and protecting tumors from immune surveillance, and could be a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target.
Dysregulated zinc and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate signaling in pulmonary hypertension: Potential effects by targeting of bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 in pulmonary microvessels
Authors: Tran Hai B. , Maiolo Suzanne , Harper Rebecca , Zalewski Peter D. , Reynolds Paul N. , Hodge Sandra
Published: August 2021

Recently identified molecular targets in pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) include sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) and zinc transporter ZIP12 signaling. This study sought to determine linkages between these pathways, and with BMPR2 signaling. Lung tissues from a rat model of monocrotaline‐induced PAH and therapeutic treatment with bone marrow–derived endothelial‐like progenitor cells transduced to overexpress BMPR2 were studied. Multifluorescence quantitative confocal microscopy (MQCM) was applied for analysis of protein expression and localization of markers of vascular remodeling (αSMA and BMPR2), parameters of zinc homeostasis (zinc transporter SLC39A/ZIP family members 1, 10, 12 and 14; and metallothionein MT3) and S1P extracellular signaling (SPHK1, SPNS2, S1P receptor isoforms 1, 2, 3, 5) in 20–200 µm pulmonary microvessels. ZIP12 expression in whole lung tissue lysates was assessed by western blot. Spearman nonparametric correlations between MQCM readouts and hemodynamic parameters, Fulton index (FI), and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) were measured. In line with PAH status, pulmonary microvessels in monocrotaline‐treated animals demonstrated significant (p < .05, n = 6 per group) upregulation of αSMA (twofold) and downregulation of BMPR2 (20%). Upregulated ZIP12 (92%), MT3 (57.7%), S1PR2 (54.8%), and S1PR3 (30.3%) were also observed. Significant positive and negative correlations were demonstrated between parameters of zinc homeostasis (ZIP12, MT3), S1P signaling (S1PRs, SPNS2), and vascular remodeling (αSMA, FI, RVSP). MQCM and western blot analysis showed that monocrotaline‐induced ZIP12 upregulation could be partially negated by BMPR2‐targeted therapy. Our results indicate that altered zinc transport/storage and S1P signaling in the monocrotaline‐induced PAH rat model are linked to each other, and could be alleviated by BMPR2‐targeted therapy.
Evaluation of a suspended radiation protection system to reduce operator exposure in cardiology interventional procedures
Authors: Zanca Federica , Dabin Jérémie , Collard Celine , Alexandre Nicolas , De Groote Alicia , Salembier Jean Paul , Henry Michel , Rombaut Emmanuel , Sghaier Sonia , Massart Pierre‐Emmanuel
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To investigate a novel suspended radiation shield (ZG), in reducing operator radiation exposure during cardiology interventions.

Background

Radiation exposure to the operator remains an occupational health hazard in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Methods

An anthropomorphic mannequin simulating an operator was placed near a phantom, simulating a patient. To measure the operator dose reduction, thermoluminescent detectors (TLDs) were inserted into the head and into the eye bulbs of the mannequin, while electronic dosimeters were positioned on the temple and at the level of the thyroid. Measurements were performed without and with the ZG system in place.

Physician exposure was subsequently prospectively measured on the torso, on the left eye and on upper arm using the same electronic dosimeters, during clinical procedures (coronary angiography (CA) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)). The physicians dose reduction was assessed by comparing operator dose when using traditional radioprotection garments (Phase 0) versus using the ZG system (Phase 1).

Results

Dose reductions as measured on the mannequin ranged from 66% to the head, to 100% to the torso. No dose was detected at the level of the torso and thyroid with ZG.

When comparing CA and PCI procedures between Phase 0 and Phase 1, a significant difference (p < 0.001) was found for the left eye and the left wrist. Dose reduction as measured during clinical procedures for left eye/upper arm were on average 78.9%/95.6% for CA and 83.0%/93.0% for PCI, respectively (p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions

The ZG systems has a great potential to significantly reduce operator dose through the creation of a nearly zero‐radiation work environment.
Hydrodynamic Characterization of a Non‐conventional Photobioreactor
Authors: Weck Klara , Calvo Sébastien , Delafosse Angélique , Toye Dominique
Published: August 2021

Hydrodynamics plays a key role in photobioreactor scale‐up as it influences mixing and light supply. The single‐phase flow of a fluidized‐bed photobioreactor was characterized by two‐dimensional particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements on five planes. The flow regime is unusual as it is laminar and unsteady. As a result, an average flow was calculated on 500 images captured during 100 s. Comparison between the three‐dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and PIV results provides three main findings: The CFD model fully characterizes the laminar unsteady nature of the flow. It properly describes the flow structures in both the descending and ascending sections of the reactor. Finally, the very good agreement between the mean and root mean square velocity profiles obtained by CFD and PIV allows the quantitative validation of the model.
NO Removal on Activated Coke Mixed with Steel Slag and Coke Powder
Authors: Han Yunlong , Yang Xiaobai , Qian Fuping , Hu Yongmei
Published: August 2021

The low temperature of sintering flue gas limits the application of common vanadium‐ and titanium‐based catalysts if flue gas is not reheated. In this study, cylindrically molded activated coke was prepared from steel slag and coke powder of an iron and steel plant for low‐temperature denitration. The fraction of activated coke precursor and activation conditions were optimized by orthogonal experiments and the response surface method, respectively. Denitration tests on low‐temperature simulated sintering flue gas and characterization of the physical and chemical properties of the activated coke were carried out. Fe2O3 of steel slag showed catalytic reductive activity.
Effectiveness of the Oxygenation over Classical Protonolysis Reactions: A Case of Alkylzinc Complexes Incorporating an Aminoalcoholate Ligand
Authors: Zelga Karolina , Pietrzak Tomasz , Han Tomasz , Justyniak Iwona , Chwojnowska Elżbieta , Sobota Piotr , Lewiński Janusz
Published: August 2021

Alkylzinc aminoalcoholates have emerged as powerful catalysts in organic synthesis and polymerization processes. Despite extensive research, difficulties in the rational design of these catalytic systems and in‐depth understanding of their modes of action have hitherto been encountered. Most of the major obstacles stem largely from the relatively limited knowledge of the structure‐activity relationship of zinc catalysts. In fact, the key active species are often generated in situ via the protonolysis of the alkylzinc precursors, which precludes their isolation and detailed characterization. Herein, the effectiveness of the oxygenation over the classical protonolysis in the synthesis of zinc alkylperoxides stabilized by an aminoalcoholate ligand is demonstrated. The controlled oxygenation of atert‐butylzinc complex incorporating a pridinolum (prinol) ligand leads to well‐defined a dinuclear adduct of a (prinol)ZnOOtBu moiety with the parenttBuZn(prinol) complex and a novel dimer [tBuOOZn(prinol)]2with terminal alkylperoxide groups. The observed reaction outcomes strongly depend on the reaction conditions. Although sparse examples of heteroleptic adducts of the [RZn(L)]x[ROOZn(L)]y‐type are known, the herein reported homoleptic [ROOZn(L)]xaggregate is unprecedented. Strikingly, comparative studies involving reactions betweentBuZn(prinol) andtert‐butylhydroperoxide or ethanol revealed that the respective seemingly simple zinc alkylperoxides, or zinc alkoxides, respectively, are not accessible via the classical alcoholysis. We believe that these game‐changing results concerning multifaceted chemistry of organozinc aminoalcoholates should pave the way for more rational development of various Zn‐based catalytic systems.
Large Isotope Effects in Organometallic Chemistry
Authors: Truong Phan T. , Miller Sophia G. , McLaughlin Sta. Maria Emily J. , Bowring Miriam A.
Published: August 2021

The kinetic isotope effect (KIE) is key to understanding reaction mechanisms in many areas of chemistry and chemical biology, including organometallic chemistry. This ratio of rate constants, kH/kD, typically falls between 1–7. However, KIEs up to 105 have been reported, and can even be so large that reactivity with deuterium is unobserved. We collect here examples of large KIEs across organometallic chemistry, in catalytic and stoichiometric reactions, along with their mechanistic interpretations. Large KIEs occur in proton transfer reactions such as protonation of organometallic complexes and clusters, protonolysis of metal–carbon bonds, and dihydrogen reactivity. C−H activation reactions with large KIEs occur with late and early transition metals, photogenerated intermediates, and abstraction by metal‐oxo complexes. We categorize the mechanistic interpretations of large KIEs into the following three types: (a) proton tunneling, (b) compound effects from multiple steps, and (c) semi‐classical effects on a single step. This comprehensive collection of large KIEs in organometallics provides context for future mechanistic interpretation.
Hexaphenylditetrels – When Longer Bonds Provide Higher Stability
Authors: Rummel Lars , Schümann Jan M. , Schreiner Peter R.
Published: August 2021

We present a computational analysis of hexaphenylethane derivatives with heavier tetrels comprising the central bond. In stark contrast to parent hexaphenylethane, the heavier tetrel derivatives can readily be prepared. In order to determine the origin of their apparent thermodynamic stability against dissociation as compared to the carbon case, we employed local energy decomposition analysis (LED) and symmetry‐adapted perturbation theory (SAPT) at the DLPNO‐CCSD(T)/def2‐TZVP and sSAPT0/def2‐TZVP levels of theory. We identified London dispersion (LD) interactions as the decisive factor for the molecular stability of heavier tetrel derivatives. This stability is made possible owing to the longer (than C−C) central bonds that move the phenyl groups out of the heavily repulsive regime so they can optimally benefit from LD interactions.
Autotandem Catalysis: Inexpensive and Green Access to Functionalized Ketones by Intermolecular Iron‐Catalyzed Amidoalkynylation/Hydration Cascade Reaction via N‐Acyliminium Ion Chemistry
Authors: Abdallahi Sidi Mohamed , Ewies Ewies F. , El‐Shazly Mohamed , Ould Elemine Brahim , Hadou Abderrahmane , Moncol Ján , Lawson Ata Martin , Daich Adam , Othman Mohamed
Published: August 2021

Iron‐based catalysts were applied in cascade‐type reactions for the synthesis of different carbonyl compounds. The reactions proceeded by a new iron‐catalyzed cascade of alkynylation/hydration by using both the σ‐ and π‐Lewis acid properties of iron salts. The alkynylation reactions of several endo and exocyclic acetoxylactams were achieved with three different catalysts including FeCl3 ⋅ 6H2O, FeCl3, and Fe(OTf)3 showing the efficiency of σ‐Lewis acidity of iron (III) salts in catalyzing the alkynylation reaction. We also demonstrated that the reaction sequence could be shortened by the direct use of hydroxylactams, leading to an environmentally friendly protocol, avoiding the need to perform unnecessary lengthy steps. A combination of the hard/soft iron Lewis acid properties was then used to implement an unprecedented tandem intermolecular alkynylation/intramolecular hydration sequence allowing expedient access to a new carbonyl structures from trivial materials.
Active surveillance for intermediate‐risk prostate cancer in African American and non‐Hispanic White men
Authors: Courtney P. Travis , Deka Rishi , Kotha Nikhil V. , Cherry Daniel R. , Salans Mia A. , Nelson Tyler J. , Kumar Abhishek , Luterstein Elaine , Yip Anthony T. , Nalawade Vinit , Parsons J. Kellogg , Kader A. Karim , Stewart Tyler F. , Rose Brent S.
Published: August 2021

Background

The safety of active surveillance (AS) for African American men compared with non‐Hispanic White (White) men with intermediate‐risk prostate cancer is unclear.

Methods

The authors identified patients with modified National Comprehensive Cancer Network favorable (“low‐intermediate”) and unfavorable (“high‐intermediate”) intermediate‐risk prostate cancer diagnosed between 2001 and 2015 and initially managed with AS in the Veterans Health Administration database. They analyzed definitive treatment, disease progression, metastases, prostate cancer–specific mortality (PCSM), and all‐cause mortality by using cumulative incidences and multivariable competing‐risks (disease progression, metastasis, and PCSM) or Cox (all‐cause mortality) regression.

Results

The cohort included 1007 men (African Americans, 330 [32.8%]; Whites, 677 [67.2%]) followed for a median of 7.7 years; 773 (76.8%) had low‐intermediate‐risk disease, and 234 (23.2%) had high‐intermediate‐risk disease. The 10‐year cumulative incidences of definitive treatment were not significantly different (African Americans, 83.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 78.5%‐88.7%; Whites, 80.6%; 95% CI, 76.6%‐84.4%; P = .17). Among those with low‐intermediate‐risk disease, there were no significant differences in the 10‐year cumulative incidences of disease progression (African Americans, 46.8%; 95% CI, 40.0%‐53.3%; Whites, 46.9%; 95% CI, 42.1%‐51.5%; P = .91), metastasis (African Americans, 7.1%; 95% CI, 3.7%‐11.8%; Whites, 10.8%; 95% CI, 7.6%‐14.6%; P = .17), or PCSM (African Americans, 3.8%; 95% CI, 1.6%‐7.5%; Whites, 3.8%; 95% CI, 2.0%‐6.3%; P = .69). In a multivariable regression including the entire cohort, African American race was not associated with increased risks of definitive treatment, disease progression, metastasis, PCSM, or all‐cause mortality (all P > .30).

Conclusions

Outcomes in the Veterans Affairs Health System were similar for African American and White men treated for low‐intermediate‐risk prostate cancer with AS.
Optimal selection of representative samples for efficient digital camera‐based spectra recovery
Authors: Liang Jinxing , Zhu Qiang , Liu Qiang , Xiao Kaida
Published: August 2021

For digital camera‐based spectra recovery, the spectral reflectance of the object being imaged always needs to be accurately recovered using training samples from available database. Considering the heavy workload when using all samples in database as training samples in practice, a new representative samples selection method is proposed for efficient digital camera‐based spectra recovery based on single RGB image. The representative simulation system is firstly constructed through correlation analysis of spectra recovery results of different systems, and based on the representative simulation system, a few number of representative samples are selected from the database based on minimum of the defined simulate spectra recovery error. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated and compared with existing method. As the results show, the proposed method outperforms the existing methods, and the robustness of the selected representative samples is consistent with the database in practical applications.
Encouraging corporate sustainability through effective strategic partnerships
Authors: Valbuena‐Hernandez Juan Pablo , Ortiz‐de‐Mandojana Natalia
Published: August 2021

There is a substantial body of theoretical evidence and a wide variety of recommendations from multilateral agencies on the importance of develop partnerships to achieve sustainability but not all partnerships could be equally effective. The purpose of this study is to establish which characteristics of partnerships could be related to greater improvements in firms' sustainability. To achieve this goal, we based on the resource‐based view, to emphasize the importance of expanding firm resources and capabilities through strategic partnerships. The longitudinal panel data used includes information from sustainability reports published by Spanish listed firms between 2016 and 2019. We find evidence that greater diversity referring to social sectors involved and longer duration partnerships improve sustainability measures, but only in responsive firms (environmentally pollutants). By contrast, in nonresponsive firms, diversity and longer‐tenure partnerships implied less improvement. Finally, we analyze the implications of these results to build effective partnerships and encourage sustainability.
Toward a global DNA barcode reference library of the intolerant nonbiting midge genus Rheocricotopus Brundin, 1956
Authors: Lin Xiao‐Long , Jiang Kun , Liu Wen‐Bin , Liu Wei , Bu Wen‐Jun , Wang Xin‐Hua , Mo Lidong
Published: August 2021

Environmental DNA metabarcoding is becoming a predominant tool in biodiversity assessment, as this time‐ and cost‐efficient tactics have the ability to increase monitoring accuracy. As a worldwide distributed genus, Rheocricotopus Brundin, 1956 still does not possess a complete and comprehensive global DNA barcode reference library for biodiversity monitoring. In the present study, we compiled a cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) DNA barcode library of Rheocricotopus with 434 barcodes around the world, including 121 newly generated DNA barcodes of 32 morphospecies and 313 public barcodes. Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) was applied on the 434 COI barcodes to provide a comparison between the operational taxonomic units (OTU) number calculated from the Barcode Index Number (BIN) with the “Barcode Gap Analysis” and neighbor‐joining (NJ) tree analysis. Consequently, these 434 COI barcodes were clustered into 78 BINs, including 42 new BINs. ABGD yielded 51 OTUs with a prior intraspecific divergence of Pmax = 7.17%, while NJ tree revealed 52 well‐separated clades. Conservatively, 14 unknown species and one potential synonym were uncovered with reference to COI DNA barcodes. Besides, based on our ecological analysis, we discovered that annual mean temperature and annual precipitation could be considered as key factors associated with distribution of certain members from this genus. Our global DNA barcode reference library of Rheocricotopus provides one fundamental database for accurate species delimitation in Chironomidae taxonomy and facilitates the biodiversity monitoring of aquatic biota.
Mycelial DNA persistence in a forest soil
Authors: Gordon Matthew , Van Norman Kelli
Published: August 2021

Living fungi can be identified and monitored in their soil habitat using an array of molecular methods. However, DNA originating from dead fungal tissue may become stabilized in the soil and remain detectable for some time after cell death rendering species detections with molecular methods difficult to interpret. Very little data exist about the persistence time of DNA from dead mycelium as it decomposes within the soil ecosystem. We placed soil containing the heat‐killed mycelium of two mycorrhizal fungal species, Phaeocollybia scatesiae A.H. Sm. & Trappe and P. fallax A.H. Sm., in mesh bags and buried them at a forested site in the Oregon Coast Range. The detectability of Phaeocollybia DNA in the soil bags was monitored over 8 months using PCR with species‐specific primers. We found that after 2 months of burial, P. scatesiae was undetectable, while P. fallax was barely detected. No Phaeocollybia DNA was detected at 3 months or thereafter. With the determination of this fungal DNA persistence time, treatment effect studies with an appropriate post‐treatment waiting period can be designed. The applicability of this fungal DNA persistence time to other studies depends on many factors, but we provide a reference point for the soil/ fungus environmental DNA system where very few exist.