bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Applications of a SO2 Surrogate in Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct Aminosulfonylation between Aryl Iodides and Amines
Authors: Jia Xiuwen , Kramer Søren , Skrydstrup Troels , Lian Zhong
Published: December 2020

A new SO2 surrogate is reported that is cheap, bench‐stable, and can be accessed in just two steps from bulk chemicals. Essentially complete SO2 release is achieved in 5 minutes. Eight established sulfonylation reactions proceeded smoothly by ex situ formation of SO2 by utilizing a two‐chamber system in combination with the SO2 surrogate. Furthermore, we report the first direct aminosulfonylation between aryl iodides and amines. Broad functional group tolerance is demonstrated, and the method is applicable to pharmaceutically relevant substrates, including heterocyclic substrates.
Unveiling the Electrooxidation of Urea: Intramolecular Coupling of the N−N Bond
Authors: Chen Wei , Xu Leitao , Zhu Xiaorong , Huang Yu‐Cheng , Zhou Wang , Wang Dongdong , Zhou Yangyang , Du Shiqian , Li Qiling , Xie Chao , Tao Li , Dong Chung‐Li , Liu Jilei , Wang Yanyong , Chen Ru , Su Hui , Chen Chen , Zou Yuqin , Li Yafei , Liu Qinghua , Wang Shuangyin
Published: December 2020

The nitrogenous nucleophile electrooxidation reaction (NOR) plays a vital role in the degradation and transformation of available nitrogen. Focusing on the NOR mediated by the β‐Ni(OH)2 electrode, we decipher the transformation mechanism of the nitrogenous nucleophile. For the two‐step NOR, proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET) is the bridge between electrocatalytic dehydrogenation from β‐Ni(OH)2 to β‐Ni(OH)O, and the spontaneous nucleophile dehydrogenative oxidation reaction. This theory can give a good explanation for hydrazine and primary amine oxidation reactions, but is insufficient for the urea oxidation reaction (UOR). Through operando tracing of bond rupture and formation processes during the UOR, as well as theoretical calculations, we propose a possible UOR mechanism whereby intramolecular coupling of the N−N bond, accompanied by PCET, hydration and rearrangement processes, results in high performance and ca. 100 % N2 selectivity. These discoveries clarify the evolution of nitrogenous molecules during the NOR, and they elucidate fundamental aspects of electrocatalysis involving nitrogen‐containing species.
A long‐term survivor keeping in a complete response without treatment after pemetrexed maintenance therapy for advanced non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Furugen Makoto , Shibahara Daisuke , Kiyuna Tomo , Kami Wakaki , Miyagi Kazuya , Haranaga Shusaku , Kubota Toru , Matsumoto Hirofumi , Yoshimi Naoki , Fujita Jiro
Published: December 2020

Pemetrexed has significant efficacy for some non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer cases, as demonstrated in the current case. For those patients, pemetrexed administration should be carefully considered.
Impact of cool‐season legume interseedings or timed nitrogen applications on yield and nutritive value of annual ryegrass
Authors: Lemus Rocky , White Joshua A. , Morrison Jesse I.
Published: December 2020

Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) is an essential part of winter grazing systems in the southern United States. Because of an increase in nitrogen (N) cost, producers are considering decreasing fertilizer application rates while incorporating forage‐type legumes as part of their grazing management system. The objectives of this study were to determine optimum management practices including N fertilizer application rate and timing and the incorporation of legume species and to assess changes in yield and nutritive value. ‘Marshall’ ryegrass was planted in a prepared seedbed at a rate of 25 lb pure live seed acre–1 in the fall of 2008, 2009, and 2010. The experiment included nine N fertilization regimes such as the fall and spring application of ammonium nitrate (34‐0‐0). Along with an untreated check (UC), N applications (lb N acre−1 in fall, spring, or both) included the following: 25F‐0S, 0F‐25S, 25F‐25S, 50F‐0S, 0F‐50S, 50F‐25S, 25F‐50S, and 50F‐50S lb N acre–1. Along with fertilization treatments, annual and perennial clover (Trifolium spp.) and hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth subsp. villosa) were included in the study. Yields were significantly lower during the 2009–2010 season. Higher yields were observed in the 2010–2011 season when warmer temperatures occurred in the spring. Nitrogen applications produced a slight yield advantage than the clover species. The 75 lb N acre–1 (25F‐50S) application produced the highest forage mean yield. Clover treatments had a higher yield than the UC.
Human liver‐derived MAIT cells differ from blood MAIT cells in their metabolism and response to TCR‐independent activation
Authors: Lamichhane Rajesh , Munro Fran , Harrop Thomas W. R. , de la Harpe Sara M. , Dearden Peter K. , Vernall Andrea J. , McCall John L , Ussher James E.
Published: December 2020

Mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are anti‐microbial innate‐like T cells that are abundant in blood and liver. MAIT cells express a semi‐invariant T‐cell receptor (TCR) that recognizes a pyrimidine ligand, derived from microbial riboflavin synthesis, bound to MR1. Both blood and liver derived (ld)‐MAIT cells can be robustly stimulated via TCR or by cytokines produced during bacterial or viral infection. In this study, we compared the functional and transcriptomic response of human blood and ld‐MAIT cells to TCR signals (Escherichia coli or the pyrimidine ligand) and cytokines (IL‐12 + IL‐18). While the response of blood and ld‐MAIT cells to TCR signals were comparable, following cytokine stimulation ld‐MAIT cells were more polyfunctional than blood MAIT cells. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated different effector programmes of ld‐MAIT cells with the two modes of activation, including the enrichment of a tissue repair signature in TCR‐stimulated MAIT cells. Interestingly, we observed enhancement of IL‐12 signaling and fatty acid metabolism in untreated ld‐MAIT cells compared with blood MAIT cells. Additionally, MAIT cells from blood and liver were modulated similarly by TCR and cytokine signals. Therefore, we report that blood and ld‐MAIT cells are fundamentally different but undergo conserved changes following activation via TCR or by cytokines.
State of the Art of Bodipy‐Based Photocatalysts in Organic Synthesis
Authors: De Bonfils Paul , Péault Louis , Nun Pierrick , Coeffard Vincent
Published: December 2020

Photochemistry is a tremendous research field offering many synthetic possibilities to chemists. Breakthroughs in this area have been notably driven by the implementation of new classes of photocatalysts. Within this context, Bodipy (Boron‐dipyrromethene) dyes possess attractive chemical and physical features such as their modularity, strong absorption under visible light irradiation, good thermal and photochemical stabilities, and high fluorescence quantum yields. As such, this class of compounds has found widespread applications in functionalized materials, biology, medicine, or organic chemistry. From an organic‐synthetic point of view, excited states of Bodipy dyes have been harnessed in electron and energy transfer reactions. This minireview collates the relevant literature on the applications of these catalysts in synthetic photochemistry and provides some perspectives of this research area.
Processing methods affect phytochemical contents in products prepared from orange‐fleshed sweetpotato leaves and roots
Authors: Abong' George Ooko , Muzhingi Tawanda , Okoth Michael Wandayi , Ng'ang'a Fredrick , Emelda Ochieng Phillis , Mbogo Daniel Mahuga , Malavi Derick , Akhwale Machael , Ghimire Sita
Published: December 2020

Phytochemicals enhance human health by acting antagonistically on incidences of cancer and other chronic diseases. They are considered indispensable in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceuticals, and medicinal and cosmetic applications. This study evaluated the effects of common processing methods on inherent phytochemical content in the roots and leaves of orange‐fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP) varieties called Kabode and SPK031. Yellosp and Whitesp, which are local sweetpotato varieties, were also included as check for roots and leaves, respectively. The sweetpotato products prepared for phytochemical analysis were boiling roots and leaves, frying chips and crisps, baking bread (for roots only), and fermenting and dehydrating leaves. Phytochemicals that were assessed included vitamin C, total phenolics and flavonoids, tannins, phytates, and soluble oxalates. Results indicated that retention of vitamin C was highest in boiled roots (85%–95%), followed by fries (71%–94%) and crisps (44%–76%), whereas the least retention was in bread (4%–11%) and leaves (0%–27%). Total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity in leaves significantly (p < .05) varied with the type of processing. Higher retention of these phytochemicals was observed in processed roots but was lowest in bread. Boiling retained more than 100% of all carotenoids, while fermenting and drying the leaves retained 58–62 and 22%–48%, respectively. Frying retained more than 100% of the β‐carotene in the roots, while boiling retained 96%–100%. All processing methods significantly (p < .05) reduced antinutrients in leaves and roots. Fermentation of leaves had higher reduction of oxalates, tannins, and phytates, while boiling had the least effect. It is concluded that traditional boiling enhances phytochemical retention in roots but degrades most of them in leaves.
Pulsed Laser Deposition as a Tool for the Development of All Solid‐State Microbatteries
Authors: Indrizzi Luca , Ohannessian Natacha , Pergolesi Daniele , Lippert Thomas , Gilardi Elisa
Published: December 2020

All‐solid‐state lithium ion batteries (LIB) are currently the most promising technology for next generation electrochemical energy storage. Many efforts have been devoted in the past years to improve performance and safety of these devices. Nevertheless, issues regarding chemical and mechanical stability of the different components still hinder substantial improvements. Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) has proved to be an outstanding technique for the deposition of thin films of materials of interest for the fabrication of LIB. Thanks to its versatility and possible fine tuning of the thin film properties, PLD promises to be a very powerful tool for the fabrication of model systems which would allow to study in detail material properties and mechanisms contributing to LIB degradation. Nevertheless, PLD presents difficulties in the deposition of LIB components, mainly due to the presence of elements with large difference of atomic mass in their chemical composition. In this review, we report the main challenges and solution strategies used for the deposition through PLD of complex oxides thin films for LIB.
Cervical cancer prevention in El Salvador: A prospective evaluation of screening and triage strategies incorporating high‐resolution microendoscopy to detect cervical precancer
Authors: Parra Sonia G. , López‐Orellana Leticia M. , Molina Duque Adán R. , Carns Jennifer L. , Schwarz Richard A. , Smith Chelsey A. , Ortiz Silvestre Marya , Diaz Bazan Salvador , Escobar Pablo A. , Felix Juan C. , Ramalingam Preetha , Castle Philip E. , Cremer Miriam L. , Maza Mauricio , Schmeler Kathleen M. , Richards‐Kortum Rebecca R.
Published: December 2020

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer death for women in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The goal of our study was to evaluate screening and triage strategies, including high‐resolution microendoscopy (HRME), to detect cervical abnormalities concerning for precancer at the point of care. Women (n = 1824) were enrolled at the Instituto de Cáncer de El Salvador. All underwent screening by both human papillomavirus (HPV) testing using careHPV and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). Screen‐positives, along with 10% of screen‐negatives, were invited to return for a follow‐up examination that included triage with VIA, colposcopy and HRME imaging. Biopsies were taken of any abnormalities identified. If no abnormalities were identified, then the worst scoring site by HRME was biopsied. The sensitivities of HPV testing and VIA to screen for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 2 or more severe diagnoses (CIN2+) were 82.1% and 75% (P = .77), while the specificities were 90.4% and 80.9% (P < .001), respectively. The sensitivities of VIA, colposcopy and HRME as triage tests for CIN2+ were 82.1%, 82.1% and 71.4%, respectively (P ≥ .38). HRME had a significantly higher specificity (66.7%) than VIA (51.9%) (P < .001) and colposcopy (53.3%) (P < .001). When evaluating different theoretical screening and triage strategies, screening with HPV testing followed by triage with HRME would result in more women receiving appropriate care (97%) compared to screening with VIA (75%) or HPV alone (90%). Our findings demonstrate that screening with HPV is superior to VIA, and that triage with HRME imaging increases the specificity of detecting CIN2+ at the point of care in a low‐resource setting.
More pay more gain?—Empirical research on fund management corporation visiting listed company and its fund performance
Authors: Yue Sishi , Dong Dayong , Wu Fengyun , Xiao Zuoping
Published: December 2020

This paper investigates whether institutional investors obtain increased profits when they are diligent in site visit and is based on research on fund management corporations in China and their fund performance. We use two methods: one compares the fund performance difference between two adjacent quintiles sorted by fund size, and the other constructs regression model. Our sample consists of the site visit information of 58 fund corporations from 2010 to 2016. After conducting an ordinary least square(OLS) regression, we find that the more frequent fund corporations site visits lead to better fund performance, and that is more evident for moderate‐sized fund corporations. The results suggest that institutional investors obtain increased profit when they are diligent. The statement “more pay, more gain” is evident for fund management corporations during the growth period. For slightly larger and smaller‐sized fund management corporations, the statement “more pay, more gain” motivates fund management corporations to conduct visits. However, more frequent visits are not beneficial.
Reverted effect of mesenchymal stem cells in glioblastoma treated with agathisflavone and its selective antitumoral effect on cell viability, migration, and differentiation via STAT3
Authors: Nascimento Ravena P. , dos Santos Balbino L. , da Silva Karina C. , Amaral da Silva Victor D. , de Fátima Costa Maria , David Jorge M. , David Juceni P. , Moura‐Neto Vivaldo , Oliveira Mona das N. , Ulrich Henning , de Faria Lopes Giselle P. , Costa Silvia L.
Published: December 2020

Glioblastoma is the most lethal tumor of the central nervous system, presenting a very poor prognostic, with a survival around 16 months. The interaction of mesenchymal stem cells and tumor cells has been studied, showing a bias in their role favoring or going against aggressiveness. Natural products such as flavonoids have showed their anticancer properties and the synergic potential with the activation of microenvironment cells to inhibit tumor progression. Agathisflavone is a flavonoid studied in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. The present study investigated the effect of flavonoid in the viability of heterogeneous glioblastoma (GBM) cells considering a coculture or conditioned medium of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) effect, as well as the dose‐dependent effect of this flavonoid in tumor migration and differentiation via STAT3. Agathisflavone (3–10 μM) induced dose‐dependent toxicity to GL‐15 and U373 human GBM cells, since 24 h after treatments. It was not toxic to human MSC but modified the pattern of interaction with GBM cells. Agathisflavone also inhibited migration and increased differentiation of human GBM cells, associated with the reduction on the expression of STAT3. These results demonstrate that the flavonoid agathisflavone had a direct anti‐glioma effect. However, could be observed its effect in MSCs response that may have an impact in controlling GBM growth and aggressiveness, an important factor to consider for new therapies.
PLD1 and PLD2 differentially regulate the balance of macrophage polarization in inflammation and tissue injury
Authors: Hwang Won Chan , Seo Seol Hwa , Kang Minju , Kang Rae Hee , Di Paolo Gilbert , Choi Kang‐Yell , Min Do Sik
Published: December 2020

Phospholipase D (PLD) isoforms PLD1 and PLD2 serve as the primary nodes where diverse signaling pathways converge. However, their isoform‐specific functions remain unclear. We showed that PLD1 and PLD2 selectively couple to toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and interleukin 4 receptor (IL‐4R) and differentially regulate macrophage polarization of M1 and M2 via the LPS–MyD88 axis and the IL‐4–JAK3 signaling, respectively. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) enhanced TLR4 or MyD88 interaction with PLD1; IL‐4 induced IL‐4R or JAK3 association with PLD2, indicating isozyme‐specific signaling events. PLD1 and PLD2 are indispensable for M1 polarization and M2 polarization, respectively. Genetic and pharmacological targeting of PLD1 conferred protection against LPS‐induced sepsis, cardiotoxin‐induced muscle injury, and skin injury by promoting the shift toward M2; PLD2 ablation intensified disease severity by promoting the shift toward M1. Enhanced Foxp3+ regulatory T cell recruitment also influenced the anti‐inflammatory phenotype of Pld1LyzCre macrophages. We reveal a previously uncharacterized role of PLD isoforms in macrophage polarization, signifying potential pharmacological interventions for macrophage modulation.
Extreme precipitation events in the Mediterranean: Spatiotemporal characteristics and connection to large‐scale atmospheric flow patterns
Authors: Mastrantonas Nikolaos , Herrera‐Lormendez Pedro , Magnusson Linus , Pappenberger Florian , Matschullat Jörg
Published: December 2020

The Mediterranean region is strongly affected by extreme precipitation events (EPEs), sometimes leading to severe negative impacts on society, economy, and the environment. Understanding such natural hazards and their drivers is essential to mitigate related risks. Here, EPEs over the Mediterranean between 1979 and 2019 are analysed, using ERA5, the latest reanalysis dataset from ECMWF. EPEs are determined based on the 99th percentile of their daily distribution (P99). The different EPE characteristics are assessed, based on seasonality and spatiotemporal dependencies. To better understand their connection to large‐scale atmospheric flow patterns, Empirical Orthogonal Function analysis and subsequent non‐hierarchical K‐means clustering are used to quantify the importance of weather regimes to EPE frequency. The analysis is performed for different variables, depicting atmospheric variability in the lower and middle troposphere. Results show a clear spatial division in EPE occurrence, with winter and autumn being the seasons of highest EPE frequency for the eastern and western Mediterranean, respectively. There is a high degree of temporal dependencies with 20% of the EPEs (median value based on all studied grid cells), occurring up to 1 week after a preceding P99 event at the same location. Local orography is a key modulator of the spatiotemporal connections and substantially enhances the probability of co‐occurrence of EPEs even for distant locations. The clustering clearly demonstrates the prevalence of distinct synoptic‐scale atmospheric conditions during the occurrence of EPEs for different locations within the region. Results indicate that clustering, based on a combination of sea level pressure (SLP) and geopotential height at 500 hPa (Z500), can increase the conditional probability of EPEs by more than three (3) times (median value for all grid cells) from the nominal probability of 1% for the P99 EPEs. Such strong spatiotemporal dependencies and connections to large‐scale patterns can support extended‐range forecasts.
Vibrational properties and Raman spectra of 2‐D octagon‐structure nitrogen
Authors: He Chunshan , Wang Weiliang
Published: December 2020

We studied the vibrational properties and Raman spectra of two‐dimensional (2‐D) octagon‐structure nitrogen with density functional theory (DFT). There are 10 Raman active modes whose irreducible representations are A1g, B1g, B2g, and Eg. By calculating Raman tensor of each Raman active mode, we obtained polarization angle‐dependent Raman intensities. The results show that B1g and B2g modes can show polarization angle‐dependent Raman intensities when the incident light wave vector is perpendicular to the plane of the nitrogen monolayer, which is different from some other isotropic 2‐D materials. We also discussed polarization angle‐dependent Raman intensities when the incident light wave vector is parallel to the plane of the monolayer. We found that the Raman spectra have seven peaks when the incident light wave vector is perpendicular to the monolayer, while there are four distinct peaks when the incident light wave vector is parallel to the monolayer. Our results will help experimentalists to identify the existence and orientation of octagon‐structure nitrogen monolayer when they are growing it.
Intra‐nasal zinc level relationship to COVID‐19 anosmia and type 1 interferon response: A proposal
Authors: Equils Ozlem , Lekaj Klaudi , Wu Arthur , Fattani Sahar , Liu Gene , Rink Lothar
Published: December 2020

Anosmia is common among COVID‐19 patients and anosmia assessment is proposed to be useful in the early diagnosis and prognosis of patients. Data on the pathogenesis of anosmia during COVID‐19 suggest potential olfactory nerve involvement. Zinc is an essential micronutrient that regulates the immune responses, and zinc deficiency is known to induce anosmia and ageusia. We previously proposed that a drop in nasal zinc level is a normal nasal immune response to acute viral infections, including SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, and play a role in the pathogenesis of anosmia. The drop in the local zinc level in response to SARS‐CoV‐2 may lead to lower type 1 interferons and shift toward Th2 immune responses; if prolonged, it may lead to increased viral replication and more severe disease. In people who are at risk for baseline systemic zinc deficiency, such as the elderly and those with chronic diseases such as, chronic lung disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection‐induced drop in nasal zinc level may be more severe and prolonged and lead to an insufficient anti‐viral nasal immune response and control the spread of the virus systemically and to the lungs. A better understanding of the clinical implications of baseline systemic zinc deficiency on anosmia and nasal immune responses may allow the development of new treatment strategies to slow down or stop the systemic invasion of SARS‐CoV‐2.
A History of Molecular Level Analysis of Natural Organic Matter by FTICR Mass Spectrometry and The Paradigm Shift in Organic Geochemistry
Authors: Cooper William T. , Chanton Jeffrey C. , D'Andrilli Juliana , Hodgkins Suzanne B. , Podgorski David C. , Stenson Alexandra C. , Tfaily Malak M. , Wilson Rachel M.
Published: December 2020

Natural organic matter (NOM) is a complex mixture of biogenic molecules resulting from the deposition and transformation of plant and animal matter. It has long been recognized that NOM plays an important role in many geological, geochemical, and environmental processes. Of particular concern is the fate of NOM in response to a warming climate in environments that have historically sequestered carbon (e.g., peatlands and swamps) but may transition to net carbon emitters. In this review, we will highlight developments in the application of high‐field Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR MS) in identifying the individual components of complex NOM mixtures, focusing primarily on the fraction that is dissolved in natural waters (dissolved organic matter or DOM). We will first provide some historical perspective on developments in FTICR technology that made molecular‐level characterizations of DOM possible. A variety of applications of the technique will then be described, followed by our view of the future of high‐field FTICR MS in carbon cycling research, including a particularly exciting metabolomic approach.
A global residual‐based stabilization for equal‐order finite element approximations of incompressible flows
Authors: Pacheco Douglas R. Q. , Schussnig Richard , Steinbach Olaf , Fries Thomas‐Peter
Published: December 2020

Due to simplicity in implementation and data structure, elements with equal‐order interpolation of velocity and pressure are very popular in finite‐element‐based flow simulations. Although such pairs are inf‐sup unstable, various stabilization techniques exist to circumvent that and yield accurate approximations. The most popular one is the pressure‐stabilized Petrov–Galerkin (PSPG) method, which consists of relaxing the incompressibility constraint with a weighted residual of the momentum equation. Yet, PSPG can perform poorly for low‐order elements in diffusion‐dominated flows, since first‐order polynomial spaces are unable to approximate the second‐order derivatives required for evaluating the viscous part of the stabilization term. Alternative techniques normally require additional projections or unconventional data structures. In this context, we present a novel technique that rewrites the second‐order viscous term as a first‐order boundary term, thereby allowing the complete computation of the residual even for lowest‐order elements. Our method has a similar structure to standard residual‐based formulations, but the stabilization term is computed globally instead of only in element interiors. This results in a scheme that does not relax incompressibility, thereby leading to improved approximations. The new method is simple to implement and accurate for a wide range of stabilization parameters, which is confirmed by various numerical examples.
Effects of mobile health interventions on improving glycemic stability and quality of life in patients with type 1 diabetes: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chin‐Jung Liu , Hsiao‐Yean Chiu , Yeu‐Hui Chuang , Kuan‐Chia Lin , Hui‐Chuan Huang
Published: December 2020

This meta‐analysis aimed to examine the effects of mobile‐health‐based (mHealth) interventions on improving glycemic stability and quality of life (QOL) in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Various databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, Chinese Electronic Periodical Services, and China Knowledge Resource Integrated, were used to search for relevant articles. A fixed‐effects model or random‐effects model was used to examine the overall effect. Various methods, including Egger's test, Begg's test, and trim‐and‐fill, were adopted to examine publication bias. In total, 26 studies were recruited. Results of the random‐effects model showed that the use of mHealth‐based interventions significantly decreased glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (mean difference = −0.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.53 to −0.22, p < .001), and improved life satisfaction (Hedges' g = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.50, p = .003), worry of diabetes (Hedges' g = −0.25, 95% CI = −0.41 to 0.08, p = .004), and mental health (Hedges' g = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.64, p = .012). Both adults and youths with T1D can benefit from mHealth‐based interventions to improve HbA1c (Hedges’ g = −0.44, p = .002 vs. −0.30, p = .003). The effect of mHealth‐based interventions on improving QOL in both adults and youths could not be examined due to only one study published in adults with T1D. Moreover, those studies that included the function of feedback from professionals showed a significant effect of decreasing HbA1c compared to those without that function (Hedges' g = −0.48 vs. −0.16, p = .019). Mobile devices are convenient, instantaneous, and easy to use to communicate. Applying mHealth‐based interventions with the function of feedback from professionals can be considered an alternative healthcare service to achieve optimal glycemic stability in adults and youths with T1D.
The effects of solvent casting temperature and physical aging on polyhydroxybutyrate‐graphene nanoplatelet composites
Authors: Anbukarasu Preetam , Sauvageau Dominic , Elias Anastasia
Published: December 2020

Due to their unique set of properties, polymer composites reinforced with graphenic nanoparticles are materials of interest for applications such as actuators, sensors, and degradable electronic components. To implement polymer nanocomposites in such applications, it is necessary to understand how both processing conditions and aging affect their properties. This is especially important when the matrix is composed of a semicrystalline polymer susceptible to transformations due to aging. In this study, we investigate the physical properties of a biodegradable polymer nanocomposite, comprising a polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) matrix loaded with graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) as a conductive filler. PHB/GNP nanocomposite films were prepared at different solvent casting temperatures ranging from 80 to 140°C. Results show that electrical resistivity decreased— from 42.3 Ω cm for 80°C to 3.01 Ω cm for 110°C and 1.5 Ω cm for 140°C—with increasing solvent casting temperature. Moreover, for nanocomposite films containing less than 10 wt% of GNP and processed at 80°C, we observed significant decrease in resistivity (>50%) over time when the sample was aged at room temperature. We postulate that this decrease in resistivity arises from the cold‐crystallization of PHB, as observed by X‐ray diffraction analysis, and the densification of the polymer matrix, which is a direct consequence of an increase in crystallinity of nearly 20% over 168 h of aging. These results show that understanding the aging behavior of nanocomposites made from semicrystalline polymers such as PHB is crucial when designing conductive polymer composites and active devices.
Structural basis for the N‐degron specificity of ClpS1 from Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kim Leehyeon , Heo Jiwon , Kwon Do Hoon , Shin Jin Seok , Jang Se Hwan , Park Zee‐Yong , Song Hyun Kyu
Published: December 2020

The N‐degron pathway determines the half‐life of proteins in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes by precisely recognizing the N‐terminal residue (N‐degron) of substrates. ClpS proteins from bacteria bind to substrates containing hydrophobic N‐degrons (Leu, Phe, Tyr, and Trp) and deliver them to the caseinolytic protease system ClpAP. This mechanism is preserved in organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts. Bacterial ClpS adaptors bind preferentially to Leu and Phe N‐degrons; however, ClpS1 from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtClpS1) shows a difference in that it binds strongly to Phe and Trp N‐degrons and only weakly to Leu. This difference in behavior cannot be explained without structural information due to the high sequence homology between bacterial and plant ClpS proteins. Here, we report the structure of AtClpS1 at 2.0 Å resolution in the presence of a bound N‐degron. The key determinants for α‐amino group recognition are conserved among all ClpS proteins, but the α3‐helix of eukaryotic AtClpS1 is significantly shortened, and consequently, a loop forming a pocket for the N‐degron is moved slightly outward to enlarge the pocket. In addition, amino acid replacement from Val to Ala causes a reduction in hydrophobic interactions with Leu N‐degron. A combination of the fine‐tuned hydrophobic residues in the pocket and the basic gatekeeper at the entrance of the pocket controls the N‐degron selectivity of the plant ClpS protein.
Modeling a predictive maintenance management architecture to meet industry 4.0 requirements: A case study
Authors: Nordal Helge , El‐Thalji Idriss
Published: December 2020

Industry 4.0 is the latest paradigm of industrial production enabling a new level of organizing and controlling the entire value chain within a product life cycle by creating a dynamic and real‐time understanding of cross‐company behaviors. It is expected to have a considerable impact in the oil and gas (O&G) sector by revolutionizing current predictive maintenance and operation optimization. There are several challenges to be overcome before the Industry 4.0 vision is achieved: a standardized reference architecture, a business model, robust services, and products are all lacking. This paper develops a reference architecture for an intelligent maintenance management system that complies with Industry 4.0 visions and requirements. The industrial needs were derived from stakeholders and use case scenarios using a case study methodology. Systems engineering methods were applied to transfer the needs of the existing maintenance management system into a desired functional architecture. The new and upgraded requirements are predominantly related to advanced data analytics, resulting in new and modified functions within the traditional “Reporting” and “Analyses” modules. A more complex maintenance program is created through interfaces between various enabled data categories (historical records, real‐time measurements of performance and health, expert‐just‐in‐time). The study points to the changes required in the classical O&G maintenance management process to comply with Industry 4.0 vision and requirements.
Unusual Intensity Patterns of OH(6,2) and O(1S) Airglow Driven by Long‐Period Waves Observed Over the Andes Lidar Observatory
Authors: Amaro‐Rivera Yolián , Vargas Fabio , Huang Tai‐Yin , Urbina Julio
Published: December 2020

Simultaneous OH(6,2) and O(1S) nightglow measurements obtained at the Andes Lidar Observatory (ALO) (30.3°S, 70.7°W) from September 2011 to April 2018 have been analyzed to investigate an unusual intensity pattern, that is, O(1S) nightglow intensity enhancement concurrent with OH(6,2) nightglow intensity weakening. We identified 142 nights showing that behavior during the ∼6.5‐year period. The data set comprised of these 142 nights displayed a semiannual occurrence rate with maxima during the equinoxes. A semidiurnal tide fitting applied to the 30‐min bin size monthly averaged data shows that the largest amplitudes of the tide occur in April–May and August–September in both OH(6,2) and O(1S). SABER atomic oxygen (O) climatology near ALO shows higher O densities near the equinoxes, with maximum O densities in March and September at ∼96 km. Lidar temperature analysis suggests that the O(1S) enhancement concurrent with the OH(6,2) weakening is often accompanied by a temperature increase at 96 km and a decrease at 87 km. Simulations using airglow models have also been carried out to investigate the effect of a long‐period oscillation on the OH(6,2) and O(1S) airglow intensities. A sensitivity study has also been conducted to illustrate the effect of the characteristics of a long‐period wave on the airglow intensity patterns.
Variation of Jupiter's Aurora Observed by Hisaki/EXCEED: 4. Quasi‐Periodic Variation
Authors: Tao Chihiro , Kimura Tomoki , Kronberg Elena A. , Tsuchiya Fuminori , Murakami Go , Yamazaki Atsushi , Vogt Marissa F. , Bonfond Bertrand , Yoshioka Kazuo , Yoshikawa Ichiro , Kasaba Yasumasa , Kita Hajime , Okamoto Shogo
Published: December 2020

Quasi‐periodic variations of a few to several days are observed in the energetic plasma and magnetic dipolarization in Jupiter's magnetosphere. Variation in the plasma mass flux related to Io's volcanic activity is proposed as a candidate for the variety of the period. Using a long‐term monitoring of Jupiter's northern aurora by the Earth‐orbiting planetary space telescope Hisaki, we analyzed the quasi‐periodic variation seen in the auroral power integrated over the northern pole for 2014–2016, which included monitoring Io's volcanically active period in 2015 and the solar wind near Jupiter during Juno's approach phase in 2016. Quasi‐periodic variation with periods of 0.8–8 days was detected. The difference between the periodicities during volcanically active and quiet periods is not significant. Our data set suggests that the difference of period between volcanically active and quiet conditions is below 1.25 days. This is consistent with the expected difference estimated from a proposed relationship based on a theoretical model applied to the plasma variation of this volcanic event. The periodicity does not show a clear correlation with the auroral power, central meridional longitude, nor Io phase angle. The periodic variation is continuously observed in addition to the auroral modulation due to solar wind variation. Furthermore, Hisaki auroral data sometimes shows particularly intense auroral bursts of emissions lasting <10 h. We find that these bursts coincide with peaks of the periodic variations. Moreover, the occurrence of these bursts increases during the volcanically active period. This auroral observation links parts of previous observations to give a global view of Jupiter's magnetospheric dynamics.
MMS Observations of Reconnection Separatrix Region in the Magnetotail at Different Distances From the Active Neutral X‐Line
Authors: Sergeev V. A. , Apatenkov S. V. , Nakamura R. , Plaschke F. , Baumjohann W. , Panov E. V. , Kubyshkin I. V. , Khotyaintsev Y. , Burch J. L. , Giles B. L. , Russell C. T. , Torbert R. B.
Published: December 2020

The region surrounding the reconnection separatrix consists of many particle and wave transient features (electron, cold and hot ion beams, Hall E&B fields, kinetic Alfvén, LH, etc. waves) whose pattern and parameters may vary depending on the distance from active neutral line. We study nine quick MMS entries into the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL) from the tail lobe to address the meso‐scale pattern and other characteristics of phenomena for active separatrix crossings as deduced from particle observations. The outermost thin layer (a fraction of ion inertial scale, di) of low‐density plasma consists of accelerated electron beams and lobe cold ions and displays density depletions (EBL region). It is followed by hot proton beam (PBL region) in which the plasma density grows from lobe‐like towards plasma sheet‐like values; the beam energy‐dispersion is used to estimate the distance from the active neutral line. Thin (usually ≤ di) region containing intense Hall‐like Ez perturbations (HR) usually overlaps with EBL and PBL regions. It often includes correlated B perturbations suggesting the Alfvén wave‐related transport from the reconnection source; the estimated Alfvénic ratio δE/(VA δB) varied between 0.3 and 1.3 in studied examples. The HR is associated with profound plasma property changes, including the heating of cold ion beams in its innermost part, it hosts intense structured field‐aligned currents and intense E‐field fluctuations. Surprisingly, most of abovementioned findings are valid for crossings observed at large distances from the reconnection region (exceeding a few tens Re or >100 di) except for longer time‐scales and larger spatial scales of the pattern.
Full‐Vector Paleosecular Variation Curve for the Azores: Enabling Reliable Paleomagnetic Dating for the Past 2 kyr
Authors: Béguin Annemarieke , Pimentel Adriano , de Groot Lennart V.
Published: December 2020

For archeomagnetic dating, high‐quality directional and intensity paleosecular variation curves are needed. The Azores Archipelago in the mid‐Atlantic Ocean provides a wealth of volcanic products erupted during the Holocene, making it an ideal location to (1) gather paleomagnetic data from well dated lava flows and (2) construct a paleosecular variation (PSV) curve that enables paleomagnetic dating of volcanic products with unknown age. Here, we present new full‐vector paleomagnetic data from Pico Island, and combine the new data with existing data from neighboring islands to construct a new full‐vector PSV curve for the Azores Archipelago. An extensive rock‐magnetic study underpins the quality of our paleomagnetic carriers. From Pico Island, we obtained 21 new mean site directions; and 15 paleointensity estimates with the multimethod paleointensity approach from 12 sites, the age was known for 14 and 10 sites, respectively. By bootstrapping the non‐Gaussian uncertainty estimates of the radiocarbon age calibrations and the confidence intervals associated with the direction and paleointensity estimates, we produce the first full‐vector PSV curve with confidence intervals for the Azores covering the past 2 kyr. The PSV curve reveals a period of low inclination between ∼900 and 1560 AD, with minimum values of 32°. The potential of our new full‐vector PSV curve is demonstrated by successfully dating five lava flows from Pico Island.
Cell Therapy for Liver Disease: From Promise to Reality
Authors: Khan Sheeba , Khan Reenam S. , Newsome Philip N.
Published: December 2020

Over the last decade, there has been a considerable progress in the development of cell therapy products for the treatment of liver diseases. The quest to generate well-defined homogenous cell populations with defined mechanism(s) of action has enabled the progression from use of autologous bone marrow stem cells comprising of heterogeneous cell populations to allogeneic cell types such as monocyte-derived macrophages, regulatory T cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, macrophages, etc. There is growing evidence regarding the multiple molecular mechanisms pivotal to various therapeutic effects and hence, careful selection of cell therapy product for the desired putative effects is crucial. In this review, we have presented an overview of the cell therapies that have been developed thus far, with preclinical and clinical evidence for their use in liver disease. Limitations associated with these therapies have also been discussed. Despite the advances made, there remain multiple challenges to overcome before cell therapies can be considered as viable treatment options, and these include larger scale clinical trials, scalable production of cells according to good manufacturing practice standards, pathways for delivery of cell therapy within hospital environments, and costs associated with the production.
Ameliorative and Safety Characteristics of Argemone mexicana in Indomethacin-Induced Peptic Ulcer
Authors: Idowu Oluwafemi Ayodeji , Arise Rotimi Olusanya
Published: December 2020

Argemone mexicana (A. mexicana) is a plant traditionally used in Nigeria and some African countries to treat peptic ulcer disease. In this study, the ameliorative effect of ethanolic leaf extract of A. mexicana in indomethacin-induced peptic ulcer and its safety were investigated. Phytochemical screening was performed using standard procedures. Ulcer was induced in rats by single oral administration dose of 25 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) indomethacin followed by treatment with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg b.w. ethanolic leaf extract of A. mexicana. Ulcer-related indices such as gastric pH, acidity, pepsin, and Na+/K+-ATPase activities, glycoprotein, and mucus contents were determined. The status of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, reductase, and transferase) in the stomach and duodenum of the rats was also evaluated. Safety of the extract in the liver and kidney was investigated by chromosomal aberration. The results showed that alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, and saponins present in the extract as phytochemical constituents. The extract at 200 mg/kg b.w. significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated the gastric pH, volume, and acidity of the stomach. It also significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the glycoprotein and mucus contents in the mucosal membrane of rats. The status of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, reductase, and transferase) in both tissues was also significantly improved. Study on safety evaluation revealed that the extract is relatively safe at the most active dose investigated. The study concluded that A. mexicana could serve as an alternative therapy for the development of a safer antiulcer drug.
Ratings of Emotional Expressions in Static and Dynamic Facial Recordings Before and After Upper Face Botulinum Injections—An Observational Prospective Study
Authors: Dobel Christian , Algermissen Eva , Thielker Jovanna , Geißler Katharina , Volk Gerd Fabian , Klingner Carsten , Witte Otto Wilhelm , Junghöfer Markus , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando
Published: December 2020

Background

Botulinum toxin A (BTX), a neurotoxin widely used for facial aesthetics, causes dose-dependent muscle paralysis. It was hypothesized that treatment of mimic muscles with BTX might have a positive impact on emotional expression in static images (photographs), but a negative impact in dynamic recordings (videos).

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare of emotional expression recorded in photographs and videos before and after treatment with BTX.

Methods

Twenty healthy women (mean age, 45 years) received a dose of 19 mouse units of XEOMIN (Merz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany) into the procerus, occipitofrontalis, and orbicularis oculi muscles. Photographs and videos of the participants’ faces with neutral and happy expressions were recorded before treatment and 2 weeks later. Recordings were rated by naive raters blind to the conditions and in balanced order.

Results

Videos were generally rated as more pleasant, arousing, attractive, and genuine than photographs (all Ps > 0.001). This was especially the case for videos with neutral expression (P = 0.003). Independent of presentation mode and facial expression, women were rated as more attractive after BTX treatment (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

In contrast to the hypothesis, the reduced mobility had no detectable negative impact on dynamic emotional expression, but videos received more positive ratings, particularly for neutral expressions. It is thus recommended to assess emotional expression with dynamic recordings to evaluate the effects of treatment with BTX. BTX seems to improve perceived attractiveness, although the cause of this effect remains unclear.
Compact Fat Grafting: A Novel Method to Improve Graft Retention Through Modulation of Adipocyte Size
Authors: Kim Il-Kug , Hong Ki Yong , Ju Uk-Il , Choi Bong Gyu , Jin Ung Sik , Chun Yang-Sook , Chang Hak
Published: December 2020

Background

The viable zone where adipocytes and/or adipose-derived stem cells survive is present at the surface of graft fat tissue; however, there is controversy regarding the zone thickness. Graft retention could be improved if more adipocytes are included in the zone.

Objectives

We hypothesize that a temporary reduction in adipocyte size prior to grafting could increase the number of adipocytes in the viable zone. We reduced the adipocyte size by treatment with MLN4924, which controls lipid accumulation in adipocytes, and investigated the histological and microenvironmental changes in grafted fat.

Methods

Subcutaneous fat harvested from wild-type C57BL/6J mice was chopped into small pieces; treated with dimethyl sulfoxide (control group), 0.25 μM MLN4924, or 0.5 μM MLN4924 for 4 days; and grafted into recipient C57BL/6J mice at the supraperiosteal plane of the skull.

Results

The reduced adipocyte size in response to MLN4924 treatment was restored within 8 weeks after fat grafting. The MLN4924-treated groups exhibited substantially greater graft volume, lower tissue hypoxia, and higher production of M2 macrophages compared with the control group.

Conclusions

Grafting with compact fat that had smaller adipocytes improved the microenvironment by modulating tissue hypoxia and macrophage polarization, leading to improved graft retention. Therefore, compact fat grafting may offer a new clinical strategy without the need for stem cell manipulation.
BCS Impact Report Winter 2020
Authors: Woodward James
Published: December 2020

BCS members spoke out clearly on the sale of ARM; harnessing this strong response is the latest example of our evidence-based communications strategy, writes James Woodward, Head of Policy and PR.
UK 5G What’s Next?
Authors: Sutton David
Published: December 2020

As the dust appears to settle around Huawei and the UK’s decision to use other 5G suppliers, David Sutton FBCS takes a calming look across the telecommunications horizon and gives his views what how the future may shape up.