bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Black In2O3 with Dense Oxygen Vacancy through Dual Functional Carbon Doping for Enhancing Photothermal CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Qi Yuhang , Jiang Jiawei , Liang Xichen , Ouyang Shuxin , Mi Wenbo , Ning Shangbo , Zhao Lei , Ye Jinhua
Published: March 2021

Photothermocatalytic CO2 reduction as the channel of the energy and environmental issues resolution has captured persistent attention in recent years. In2O3 has been prompted to be a potential photothermal catalyst in this sector on account of its unique physicochemical properties. However, different from the metal‐based photothermal catalyst with the nature of efficient light‐to‐thermal conversion and H2 dissociation, the wide‐bandgap semiconductor needs to be modified to possess wide‐wavelength‐range absorption and the active surface. It remains a challenge to achieve the two aims simultaneously via a single material modulation approach. In this study, one strategy of carbon doping can empower In2O3 with two advantageous modifications. Carbon doping can reduce the formation energy of oxygen vacancy, which induces the generation of oxygen‐vacancy‐riched material. The introduction of oxygen defect levels and carbon doping levels in the bandgap of In2O3 significantly reduces this bandgap, which endows it full‐spectral and intensive solar light absorption. Therefore, the carbon doped In2O3 achieves effective light‐to‐thermal conversion and delivers a 123.6 mmol g–1 h–1 of CO generation rate with near‐unity selectivity, as well as prominent stability in photothermocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Additive Nanomanufacturing of Multifunctional Materials and Patterned Structures: A Novel Laser‐Based Dry Printing Process
Authors: Ahmadi Zabihollah , Lee Seungjong , Unocic Raymond R. , Shamsaei Nima , Mahjouri‐Samani Masoud
Published: March 2021

Direct printing of functional materials, structures, and devices on various platforms such as flexible to rigid substrates is of interest for applications ranging from electronics to energy and sensing to biomedical devices. Current additive manufacturing (AM) and printing processes are either limited by the available sources of functional materials or require to be in the form of precisely designed inks. Here, a novel laser‐based additive nanomanufacturing (ANM) system capable of in situ and on‐demand generations of nanoparticles that can serve as nanoscale building blocks for real‐time sintering and dry printing a variety of multifunctional materials and patterns at atmospheric pressure and room temperature is reported. The ability to print different functional materials on various rigid and flexible platforms is shown. This nonequilibrium process involves pulsed laser ablation of targets and in situ formation of pure amorphous nanoparticles’ stream that are guided through a nozzle onto the surface of the substrate, where they are sintered/crystallized in real‐time. Further, the process–structure relationship of the printed materials from nanoscale to microscale is shown. This new ANM concept opens up an opportunity for printing advanced functional materials and devices on rigid and flexible substrates that can be employed both on the earth and in space.
Optogenetics‐Inspired Neuromorphic Optoelectronic Synaptic Transistors with Optically Modulated Plasticity
Authors: Sun Yilin , Ding Yingtao , Xie Dan , Xu Jianlong , Sun Mengxing , Yang Pengfei , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: March 2021

Plasticity modulation, which enables the biological synapses to express rich functionality in a tunable way, is an important technique to comprehensively emulate the synaptic functions for artificial neuromorphic computing systems. However, the reliable modulation on the synaptic plasticity has not been well realized at the device level due to the uncontrollable movement of ions or electrons in solid state electronic materials. Here, inspired by the optogenetics that modifies the synaptic plasticity by optical modulation, the authors propose an optoelectronic synaptic transistor based on MoS2/quantum dots (QDs) mixed‐dimensional heterostructure with optically modulated plasticity. The transmission of neuronal signaling in biological retina has been faithfully emulated under the optical modulation, where the post‐synaptic current is inhibited in the dark and enlarged upon illumination. Moreover, a light‐induced inversion between synaptic potentiation and depression is also demonstrated. Such optical modulation on synaptic plasticity can be attributed to the photo‐gating effect dominating the switching characteristics of the MoS2/QDs heterostructure channel under the stimulation of specific electric signals. The authors’ results provide a feasible strategy to realize functional diversity under the optical modulation for synaptic transistors and promote the development of a neuromorphic optoelectronic hardware platform.
Dual‐Functional Optical Waveplates Based on Gap‐Surface Plasmon Metasurfaces
Authors: Cai Ziru , Deng Yadong , Wu Cuo , Meng Chao , Ding Yingtao , Bozhevolnyi Sergey I. , Ding Fei
Published: March 2021

Gap‐surface plasmon (GSP) metasurfaces have attracted increasing attention and have become an emerging research area due to their planar configurations, high efficiencies, ease of fabrication, and unprecedented capabilities in manipulating reflected fields, thereby allowing one to reduce a set of bulky optical components to a single ultrathin element with multiplexed functionalities. Herein, a reflective dual‐functional optical waveplate based on periodic GSP meta‐molecules is designed and experimentally demonstrated, exhibiting combined quarter‐waveplate and half‐waveplate functionalities, i.e., providing linear‐to‐circular and linear‐to‐linear polarization conversion simultaneously, at the same operating wavelength for orthogonal linear polarizations. The proof‐of‐concept fabricated metasurface demonstrates excellent and distinct polarization conversion functionalities with the efficiencies of ≈73% and 30% at the design wavelength of 850 nm for the orthogonal incident polarizations, well in agreement with the simulations. Owing to the compactness and excellent performance, the demonstrated reflective dual‐functional optical waveplate opens yet another avenue for further development of flat polarization optical components with multiplexed functionalities.
Dual‐Modal Invisible Photonic Crystal Prints from Photo/Water Responsive Photonic Crystals
Authors: Xu Chenjing , Yang Dongpeng , Luo Li , Ma Dekun , Huang Shaoming
Published: March 2021

Invisible photonic crystal prints (IPCPs) are appealing for anti‐counterfeiting and information protection due to their capability in hiding and showing the encrypted information under specific conditions. Herein, the dual‐modal IPCPs based on responsive photonic crystals (PCs) with tunable photoluminescent (PL) and structural colors are reported. The responsive PCs are prepared by the self‐assembly of dyes doped silica particles into non/swellable polymers. The independent design and control over the optical response of the PL of the particles and structural colors of PCs enable the successful encryption of dual‐modal patterns. Under normal conditions, the as‐fabricated IPCP shows a fake pattern with uniform structural colors and thus hides the encrypted pattern due to the similar particles size, lattice constant, and refractive index of each region. In striking contrast, PL and structural colors‐based new patterns can be instantly and reversibly revealed when the IPCP is exposed to UV illumination or soaked in water. This work provides a new concept in designing and fabricating dual‐modal IPCPs, and facilitates their applications in the fields of color display, antifake package, and multilevel anti‐counterfeiting.
Gold‐Catalyzed Carboamination of Allenes by Tertiary Amines Proceeding with Benzylic Group Migration
Authors: Milcendeau Pierre , Gandon Vincent , Guinchard Xavier
Published: March 2021

Tertiary amines bearing a benzyl‐type group (CH2Ar) undergo Au(I)‐catalyzed intramolecular addition to allenes. A formal 1,3‐transfer of the CH2Ar group takes place during the cyclization. As demonstrated by both experimental and DFT studies, these unprecedented intramolecular carboaminations involve two consecutive [3,3] rearrangements via a dearomatized intermediate. Because of the poor stability of the enamine products, protocols were developed to convert them in situ to more stable polycyclic chiral compounds.

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Effective Doping of Square/Octagon‐Phase Arsenene by Adsorption of Organic Molecules
Authors: Zhao Ning , Schwingenschlögl Udo
Published: March 2021

Adsorption of organic molecules can be a better choice than traditional chemical doping to achieve effective doping of 2D materials. The adsorption of organic molecules on square/octagon‐phase (S/O‐phase) arsenene is investigated and promoted the possibility of developing p–n junctions. In particular, it is found that adsorption of F4‐TCNQ or TCNE molecules leads to effective p‐doping. Adsorption of DMPD or TTF molecules leads to less effective n‐doping. Interestingly, in the case of TTF adsorption strain engineering can be used to greatly improve the material properties. Therefore, both effective n‐ and p‐doping of S/O‐phase arsenene can be realized.
DDIT3 Directs a Dual Mechanism to Balance Glycolysis and Oxidative Phosphorylation during Glutamine Deprivation
Authors: Li Mingyue , Thorne Rick Francis , Shi Ronghua , Zhang Xu Dong , Li Jingmin , Li Jingtong , Zhang Qingyuan , Wu Mian , Liu Lianxin
Published: March 2021

Extracellular glutamine represents an important energy source for many cancer cells and its metabolism is intimately involved in maintaining redox homeostasis. The heightened metabolic activity within tumor tissues can result in glutamine deficiency, necessitating metabolic reprogramming responses. Here, dual mechanisms involving the stress‐responsive transcription factor DDIT3 (DNA damage induced transcript 3) that establishes an interrelationship between glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration are revealed. DDIT3 is induced during glutamine deprivation to promote glycolysis and adenosine triphosphate production via suppression of the negative glycolytic regulator TIGAR. In concert, a proportion of the DDIT3 pool translocates to the mitochondria and suppresses oxidative phosphorylation through LONP1‐mediated down‐regulation of COQ9 and COX4. This in turn dampens the sustained levels of reactive oxygen species that follow glutamine withdrawal. Together these mechanisms constitute an adaptive survival mechanism permitting tumor cells to survive metabolic stress induced by glutamine starvation.
Low‐Power Self‐Rectifying Memristive Artificial Neural Network for Near Internet‐of‐Things Sensor Computing
Authors: Choi Seok , Kim Yong , Van Nguyen Tien , Jeong Won Hee , Min Kyeong‐Sik , Choi Byung Joon
Published: March 2021

Frequent data transfers between Internet‐of‐Things (IoT) sensors and cloud servers consume energy and lead to latency—a bottleneck for ubiquitous computing. To reduce the need for such enormous data transfers, the combined function of IoT sensors and near‐sensor artificial neural networks can process data properly before they are transferred to cloud servers. Herein, energy‐efficient memristor crossbar arrays are demonstrated for image recognition tasks that are potentially adopted for IoT sensors. The adoption of the selector‐free memristor device with a self‐rectifying function allows for simple stacking of metal–dielectric–metal layer, thus significantly simplifying the fabrication process while achieving low‐current operation (<10 µA in microdevice). Area‐dependent resistive switching characteristics and the incorporation of interface effects reveal the role of the switching and rectifying phenomena in such devices. Finally, the Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology pattern recognition task is demonstrated with 32 × 32 memristor crossbar arrays combining a SPICE simulation. Therefore, it is expected that self‐rectifying memristor arrays can pave the way for the development of more intelligent IoT sensors.
Base temperatures affect accuracy of growing degree day model to predict emergence of bermudagrasses
Authors: Giolo M. , Sallenave R. , Pornaro C. , Velasco‐Cruz C. , Macolino S. , Leinauer B.
Published: March 2021

The germination of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] under different temperature regimes has been extensively investigated, but a discrepancy remains between laboratory studies and field results. Thermal requirements calculated in growing degree days (GDD) have been found to differ within the same species depending on the location of the study. The accumulation of GDD may vary under different thermal conditions from seeding to seedling emergence and could depend on TBASE used in the calculation. The most widely used TBASE for bermudagrass is 5 °C. However, laboratory studies have suggested that a base temperature of 15 °C would more accurately predict seedling emergence. In this field study, we investigated the effect of using TBASE 5 °C vs. TBASE 15 °C on the estimation of GDD required by bermudagrass to emerge. Ten cultivars were seeded in northeastern Italy on three dates between 10 March and the end of April in 2013 and 2014. Number of emerged seedlings was counted weekly and soil temperature at 1‐cm depth was recorded significant differences in seedling emergence between bermudagrass genotypes were found. Results demonstrated that the algorithm used to calculate GDD is strongly influenced by the TBASE used and to include a TBASE of 15 °C explains germination and emergence more accurately than a TBASE of 5 °C.
Nitrogen fertilizer rate effects on yield and botanical components of summer annual forage mixtures
Authors: Mercier Kelly M. , Teutsch Christopher D. , Smith S. Ray , Ritchey Edwin L. , Burdine Kenneth H. , Vanzant Eric S.
Published: March 2021

Summer annual grass‐legume mixtures may provide supplemental grazing for livestock when cool‐season pastures are less productive, but nitrogen fertilizer recommendations for these mixtures are not well established. Inputs to these systems are often high, so optimizing N fertilizer rates may increase appeal to producers. This study evaluated the effects of increasing botanical diversity and N fertilizer application on the yield and botanical composition of summer annual mixtures in four environments in Kentucky. Nitrogen fertilizer rates of 0, 56, 112, 168, and 224 kg N ha–1were applied to a sudangrass [Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench ×Sorghum sudanese(P.) Stapf] monoculture, a three‐species mixture, and an 11‐species mixture. In three out of four environments, sward biomass increased as N application increased (average of 15 kg dry matter (DM) ha–1increase per kg N ha–1;p < .05). Mixture complexity had no effect on forage DM accumulation in three out of four environments (4,000, 5,830, and 7,280 kg DM ha–1averaged over mixture for three environments;p > .05). Mixtures were overwhelmingly dominated by grasses, resulting in low functional diversity. Legumes did not respond to N (p > .05), but their contribution to sward DM was <4%. Species compatibility should be a priority when utilizing multi‐species mixtures. If a stronger legume component is desired, care must be taken to provide management that favors these species, such as reduced grass‐seeding rates to limit competition, especially during initial establishment.
Visible‐light‐Induced Sulfhydrylation and Oxylation of Olefins with Iodine as Catalyst
Authors: Ren Ming Zhe , Yang Ying Hui , Zhu Zheng He , Zhang Bo Sheng , Quan Zheng Jun , Wang Xi Cun
Published: March 2021

Herein, the sulfhydrylation and oxylation of olefins were completed under visible light irradiation with iodine as catalyst, which realized more economical and green chemical conversion because of the absence of metal complexes or organic dyes. A series of bifunctional modifications of olefins were achieved with good yields by using diol derivatives and water as nucleophiles. In addition, the control experiments show that the reaction is a free radical process.
Skin deep: The decoupling of genetic admixture levels from phenotypes that differed between source populations
Authors: Kim Jaehee , Edge Michael D. , Goldberg Amy , Rosenberg Noah A.
Published: March 2021

Objectives

In genetic admixture processes, source groups for an admixed population possess distinct patterns of genotype and phenotype at the onset of admixture. Particularly in the context of recent and ongoing admixture, such differences are sometimes taken to serve as markers of ancestry for individuals—that is, phenotypes initially associated with the ancestral background in one source population are assumed to continue to reflect ancestry in that population. Such phenotypes might possess ongoing significance in social categorizations of individuals, owing in part to perceived continuing correlations with ancestry. However, genotypes or phenotypes initially associated with ancestry in one specific source population have been seen to decouple from overall admixture levels, so that they no longer serve as proxies for genetic ancestry. Here, we aim to develop an understanding of the joint dynamics of admixture levels and phenotype distributions in an admixed population.

Methods

We devise a mechanistic model, consisting of an admixture model, a quantitative trait model, and a mating model. We analyze the behavior of the mechanistic model in relation to the model parameters.

Results

We find that it is possible for the decoupling of genetic ancestry and phenotype to proceed quickly, and that it occurs faster if the phenotype is driven by fewer loci. Positive assortative mating attenuates the process of dissociation relative to a scenario in which mating is random with respect to genetic admixture and with respect to phenotype.

Conclusions

The mechanistic framework suggests that in an admixed population, a trait that initially differed between source populations might serve as a reliable proxy for ancestry for only a short time, especially if the trait is determined by few loci. It follows that a social categorization based on such a trait is increasingly uninformative about genetic ancestry and about other traits that differed between source populations at the onset of admixture.
NIA‐AA Alzheimer's Disease Framework: Clinical Characterization of Stages
Authors: Petersen Ronald C. , Wiste Heather J. , Weigand Stephen D. , Fields Julie A. , Geda Yonas E. , Graff‐Radford Jonathan , Knopman David S. , Kremers Walter K. , Lowe Val , Machulda Mary M. , Mielke Michelle M. , Stricker Nikki H. , Therneau Terry M. , Vemuri Prashanthi , Jack Clifford R.
Published: March 2021

Background

To operationalize the National Institute on Aging – Alzheimer's Association (NIA‐AA) Research Framework for Alzheimer's Disease 6‐stage continuum of clinical progression for persons with abnormal amyloid.

Methods

The Mayo Clinic Study of Aging is a population‐based longitudinal study of aging and cognitive impairment in Olmsted County, Minnesota. We evaluated persons without dementia having 3 consecutive clinical visits. Measures for cross‐sectional categories included objective cognitive impairment (OBJ) and function (FXN). Measures for change included subjective cognitive impairment (SCD), objective cognitive change (ΔOBJ), and new onset of neurobehavioral symptoms (ΔNBS). We calculated frequencies of the stages using different cutoff points and assessed stability of the stages over 15 months.

Results

Among 243 abnormal amyloid participants, the frequencies of the stages varied with age: 66 to 90% were classified as stage 1 at age 50 but at age 80, 24 to 36% were stage 1, 32 to 47% were stage 2, 18 to 27% were stage 3, 1 to 3% were stage 4 to 6, and 3 to 9% were indeterminate. Most stage 2 participants were classified as stage 2 because of abnormal ΔOBJ only (44–59%), whereas 11 to 21% had SCD only, and 9 to 13% had ΔNBS only. Short‐term stability varied by stage and OBJ cutoff points but the most notable changes were seen in stage 2 with 38 to 63% remaining stable, 4 to 13% worsening, and 24 to 41% improving (moving to stage 1).

Interpretation

The frequency of the stages varied by age and the precise membership fluctuated by the parameters used to define the stages. The staging framework may require revisions before it can be adopted for clinical trials. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:1145–1156
Foslevodopa/Foscarbidopa: A New Subcutaneous Treatment for Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Rosebraugh Matthew , Voight Eric A. , Moussa Ehab M. , Jameel Feroz , Lou Xiaochun , Zhang Geoff G. Z. , Mayer Peter T. , Stolarik Deanne , Carr Robert A. , Enright Brian P. , Liu Wei , Facheris Maurizio F. , Kym Philip R.
Published: March 2021

Objective

The aim was to demonstrate that continuous s.c. infusion of a soluble levodopa (LD)/carbidopa (CD) phosphate prodrug combination effectively delivers stable LD exposure via a minimally invasive and convenient mode and has the potential to treat Parkinson's disease (PD) patients who are not well controlled on oral medication.

Methods

Foslevodopa and foscarbidopa were prepared and the equilibrium solubility and chemical stability examined in aqueous media with different values of pH. Solutions of foslevodopa/foscarbidopa (ratios ranging from 4:1 to 20:1) were prepared by dissolving pH‐adjusted lyophilized materials in water and infused s.c. in healthy volunteers for ≤72 hours. Frequent blood samples were collected to measure LD and CD exposure, and safety was monitored throughout the study.

Results

Foslevodopa/foscarbidopa (ABBV‐951) demonstrates high water solubility and excellent chemical stability near physiological pH, enabling continuous s.c. infusion therapy. After s.c. infusion, a stable LD pharmacokinetic (PK) profile was maintained for ≤72 hours, and the infusion was well tolerated.

Interpretation

Preparation of foslevodopa and foscarbidopa enables preclinical and clinical PK, safety, and tolerability studies in support of their advancement for the treatment of PD. In phase 1 clinical trials, foslevodopa/foscarbidopa demonstrates consistent and stable LD plasma exposure, supporting further studies of this treatment as a potentially transformational option for those suffering from PD. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:52–61
A Terminal Imido Complex of an Iron–Sulfur Cluster
Authors: Sridharan Arun , Brown Alexandra C. , Suess Daniel L. M.
Published: March 2021

We report the synthesis and characterization of the first terminal imido complex of an Fe–S cluster, (IMes)3Fe4S4=NDipp (2; IMes=1,3‐dimesitylimidazol‐2‐ylidene, Dipp=2,6‐diisopropylphenyl), which is generated by oxidative group transfer from DippN3 to the all‐ferrous cluster (IMes)3Fe4S4(PPh3). This two‐electron process is achieved by formal one‐electron oxidation of the imido‐bound Fe site and one‐electron oxidation of two IMes‐bound Fe sites. Structural, spectroscopic, and computational studies establish that the Fe–imido site is best described as a high‐spin Fe3+ center, which is manifested in its long Fe−N(imido) distance of 1.763(2) Å. Cluster 2 abstracts hydrogen atoms from 1,4‐cyclohexadiene to yield the corresponding anilido complex, demonstrating competency for C−H activation.
Single‐Atom Pd Nanozyme for Ferroptosis‐Boosted Mild‐Temperature Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Chang Mengyu , Hou Zhiyao , Wang Man , Yang Chunzheng , Wang Ruifeng , Li Fang , Liu Donglian , Peng Tieli , Li Chunxia , Lin Jun
Published: March 2021

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an extremely promising tumor therapeutic modality. However, excessive heat inevitably injures normal tissues near tumors, and the damage to cancer cells caused by mild hyperthermia is easily repaired by stress‐induced heat shock proteins (HSPs). Thus, maximizing the PTT efficiency and minimizing the damage to healthy tissues simultaneously by adopting appropriate therapeutic temperatures is imperative. Herein, an innovative strategy is reported: ferroptosis‐boosted mild PTT based on a single‐atom nanozyme (SAzyme). The Pd SAzyme with atom‐economical utilization of catalytic centers exhibits peroxidase (POD) and glutathione oxidase (GSHOx) mimicking activities, and photothermal conversion performance, which can result in ferroptosis featuring the up‐regulation of lipid peroxides (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The accumulation of LPO and ROS provides a powerful approach for cleaving HSPs, which enables Pd SAzyme‐mediated mild‐temperature PTT.
COVID‐19 as a Transformative Opportunity for Families and Therapists: Harnessing the Possibilities That Constraints Offer Us
Authors: Selekman Matthew D.
Published: March 2021

This article demonstrates several ways in which the constraints that the COVID‐19 pandemic has posed for families can provide transformative opportunities to strengthen family relationships, become more resilient, and resolve conflicts and longstanding difficulties. Since most families worldwide have been greatly impacted on many fronts by the pandemic, they are looking to us for hope, guidance, and solutions for coping with high levels of anxiety about living in a world where life as we knew it has been turned on its head and we are struggling to cope with uncertainty about what the future will bring. However, in spite of all the limitations and health consequences COVID‐19 has posed for our client families, the majority have been quite resourceful and creative in coming up with their own novel self‐generated coping, problem‐solving, and health‐enhancing strategies well before we see them for the first time. Finally, the article discusses how the constraints of COVID‐19 afford family therapists with many opportunities to further hone their therapeutic alliance‐building skills, gain an intimate insider’s view of their clients’ daily lives that are not accessible in our offices, and co‐design with them therapeutic experiments that can produce high‐quality solutions.
Transformation of bio‐derived levulinic acid to gamma‐valerolactone by cyclopentadienone ruthenium(0) catalyst precursors bearing simple supporting ligands
Authors: Ngumbu Denis M. , Kapfunde Tsitsi A. , Oklu Novisi K. , Makhubela Banothile C. E.
Published: March 2021

Hydrogenation of bio‐based levulinic acid (LA) to γ‐valerolactone (GVL) was carried out using new cyclopentadienone ruthenium(0) complexes as catalyst precursors. These new complexes were obtained by reaction of cyclopentadione ruthenium(0) with widely available amino, pyridyl and phosphino ligands (L1–L6) using bridging N–N, P–N, or monodentate P or N donor frameworks. The hydrogenation reactions proceeded efficiently using formic acid as a hydrogen source and a low catalyst loading (0.2 mol%) in a benign solvent. At 120°C, up to 1,882 TON and >99% LA conversions and selectivities to GVL were seen, and the catalysts could be recycled up to four times with consistent activity and selectivity. In situ NMR studies show that hydrogen gas was generated from formic acid decomposition with simultaneous release of carbon dioxide. Ru‐hydride species have been detected, by 1H NMR spectroscopy, and the structure of the active catalyst is proposed along with a plausible reaction pathway.
Synthesis of 1‐(3H)isobenzofuranone compounds by tin powder promoted cascade condensation reaction
Authors: Wang Shangxian , Wang Ke‐Hu , Chang Bo , Huang Danfeng , Hu Yulai
Published: March 2021

An efficient approach for the construction of phthalide compounds is developed through tin powder mediated cascade condensation reaction of 2‐formylbenzoic acids with allyl bromides or α‐bromoketone under mild reaction conditions. This method is easy to operate and can tolerate various functional groups to give the corresponding phthalides in good to excellent yields. The phthalides produced from α‐bromoketone can be further transformed to 3,3a‐dihydro‐8H‐pyrazolo[5, l‐a]isoindol‐8‐one and 8H‐pyrazolo[5, l‐a]isoindol‐8‐one.
Physicochemical properties and film formation of the chitin hydrocolloid fabricated by a novel green process
Authors: Chi Hsuan‐Lun , Yeh An‐I , Pan Min‐Hsiung , Chen Shih‐Hsin
Published: March 2021

Chitin is a valuable natural material, but its applications are limited because of its insolubility in water. Size reduction of natural materials has been found to offer certain benefits, including enhancing dispersibility. We employed media milling to produce a chitin micro‐suspension with water as the sole solvent, and to fabricate the chitin film. The particle size and molecular weight were decreased from 96.86 to 21.95 μm and 173 to 75 kDa (Mn), respectively, post milling; however, the degree of deacetylation slightly increased (from 21.26 to 24.31) with milling time. Moreover, limited water‐soluble fractions were generated, the quantity (1.5–2.0% d.b.) and molecular weight (Mn 15–34 kDa) of which were characterized. These fractions enabled the formation of a chitin film through the induction of hydrogen bonds. The particle size affected the morphology and mechanical properties of the film. The fabricated chitin film had tunable thickness (61.3–80.7 μm), tensile strength (38.95–64.61 MPa), elongation (0.93%–2.16%), Young's modulus (2994–4246 MPa), WVP (12.04–17.79 g mm/m2 day kPa), swelling ratio and surface smoothness. This novel method for fabricating chitin films through aqueous suspension can improve applications of chitin in packaging and particularly fulfill environmentally friendly requirements.
Anatomy, technique, and results of robotic retroauricular approach to neck dissection
Authors: Kowalski Luiz P. , Lira Renan B.
Published: March 2021

In the attempt to improve the cosmetic and functional outcomes in head and neck surgeries, robotic or video‐assisted neck dissection using remote access has gained ground in recent years. Retroauricular approach emerged as the most versatile option, allowing proper dissection at all neck levels. In this technique, after retroauricular incision, a skin flap is elevated and a self‐retaining retractor is placed, creating working space for the robotic, or endoscopic neck dissection. Numerous published series have shown the safety and favorable outcomes of retroauricular robotic neck dissections, without any major complications or surgery‐related deaths. The only consistently reported disadvantage is a longer operative time. Our group has an experience of 190 retroauricular neck dissections performed over the last 5 years, without any major setbacks. The oncologic and safety outcomes have been comparable to the conventional technique, with clearly superior aesthetic results. In the process of expansion of Robotic Surgery in Brazil, our center is currently providing training and proctoring to capacitate other head and neck surgeons, and enable other centers to offer this surgical modality.
Early postnatal lung development in the eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus)
Authors: Ferner Kirsten
Published: March 2021

Early postnatal lung development (1–25 days) in the eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus) was investigated to assess the morphofunctional status of one of the most immature marsupial neonates. Lung volume, surface density, surface area, and parenchymal and nonparenchymal volume proportions were determined using light microscopic morphometry. The lungs of the neonate were at the canalicular stage and consisted of two “balloon‐like” airways with few septal ridges. The absolute volume of the lung was only 0.0009 cm3 with an air space surface density of 108.83 cm−1 and a surface area of 0.082 cm2. The increase in lung volume in the first three postnatal days was mainly due to airspace expansion. The rapid postnatal development of the lung was indicated by an increase in the septal proportion of the parenchyma around day 4, which was reflected by an increase in the airspace surface density and surface area. By day 5, the lung entered the saccular stage of development with a reduction in septal thickness, expansion of the tubules into saccules and development of a double capillary system. The subsequent saccular period was characterized by repetitive septation steps, which increased the number of airway generations. The lungs of the newborn Dasyurus viverrinus must be considered as structurally and quantitatively insufficient to meet the respiratory requirements at birth. Hence, cutaneous gas exchange might be crucial for the first three postnatal days. The lung has to mature rapidly in the early postnatal period to support the increased metabolic requirements of the developing young.
Morphology‐based diagnostics of “protodogs.” A commentary to Galeta et al., 2021, Anatomical Record, 304, 42–62, doi: 10.1002/ar.24500
Authors: Janssens Luc A. A. , Boudadi‐Maligne Myriam , Lawler Dennis F. , O'Keefe F. Robin , van Dongen Stefan
Published: March 2021

In a recent article in this journal, Galeta et al., (2020) discussed eight Pleistocene “protodogs” and seven Pleistocene wolves. Those “protodogs” had been diagnosed in earlier publications, based on skull morphology. We re‐examined the Galeta et al. paper to offer comments on their observed outcomes, and the conclusion of presumed domestication. Of seven metrics that the authors used, five differed statistically between their two groups. However, from more elaborate studies, some of those same metrics had been rejected previously as not valid species‐distinguishing traits. In this respect, we do accept cranium size and wider palate as species‐distinguishing metrics. The physical size of their specimens was much larger than other archaeological specimens that have been accepted as dogs. Additionally, their sample size was small, compared to the number of available specimens, as shown from previous publications by the same group. Thus, we considered statistical differences that were found between groups in their study, and assessed whether the outcomes could have resulted from natural morphological variation. We examined a group of 73 dire wolves ((Aenocyon [Canis] dirus; Perri et al., 2021), using the same methods as used by Galeta et al., (2020). We could segregate two distinct morphological groups in our study, one having outcomes that were identical to the “protodogs” in Galeta et al. (2020). For the specimens of extinct dire wolves to segregate in the same way as the subjects from Galeta et al. indicates that natural variation probably was the driver of their observed outcomes, domestication being an unlikely assumption.
The role of biofactors in the prevention and treatment of age‐related diseases
Authors: Frank Jan , Kisters Klaus , Stirban Ovidiu Alin , Obeid Rima , Lorkowski Stefan , Wallert Maria , Egert Sarah , Podszun Maren C. , Eckert Gunter P. , Pettersen Jacqueline A. , Venturelli Sascha , Classen Hans‐Georg , Golombek Jana
Published: March 2021

The present demographic changes toward an aging society caused a rise in the number of senior citizens and the incidence and burden of age‐related diseases (such as cardiovascular diseases [CVD], cancer, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD], diabetes mellitus, and dementia), of which nearly half is attributable to the population ≥60 years of age. Deficiencies in individual nutrients have been associated with increased risks for age‐related diseases and high intakes and/or blood concentrations with risk reduction. Nutrition in general and the dietary intake of essential and nonessential biofactors is a major determinant of human health, the risk to develop age‐related diseases, and ultimately of mortality in the older population. These biofactors can be a cost‐effective strategy to prevent or, in some cases, even treat age‐related diseases. Examples reviewed herein include omega‐3 fatty acids and dietary fiber for the prevention of CVD, α‐tocopherol (vitamin E) for the treatment of biopsy‐proven nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, vitamin D for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases, thiamine and α‐lipoic acid for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, and the role of folate in cancer epigenetics. This list of potentially helpful biofactors in the prevention and treatment of age‐related diseases, however, is not exhaustive and many more examples exist. Furthermore, since there is currently no generally accepted definition of the term biofactors, we here propose a definition that, when adopted by scientists, will enable a harmonization and consistent use of the term in the scientific literature.
Complete or periodic continuity in continuous manufacturing platforms for production of monoclonal antibodies?
Authors: Kateja Nikhil , Tiwari Anamika , Thakur Garima , Rathore Anurag S.
Published: March 2021

Background

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) currently dominate the biotherapeutic market. This has resulted in significant efforts towards the development of a continuous integrated platform for the manufacturing of mAbs.

Main Methods and Major Results

In this study, a continuous mAb platform has been developed consisting of an Acoustic Wave Separator, a Cadence BioSMB PD system, a customized coiled flow reactor, a modular single‐pass TFF kit, an in‐line diafiltration module, and a continuous dead‐end filtration skid. A three‐step chromatographic purification was performed in the platform consisting of Protein A capture chromatography followed by an anion exchange membrane directly coupled to a cation exchange chromatography. Two operational case studies have been executed on the platform, namely complete continuous (“CC”) and periodic continuous (“PC”) modes of operation. The CC mode was designed to ensure that each unit operation had completely continuous inflow and outflow by increasing the number of columns, filtration modules and tanks, while the PC mode operated in periodic pulses with scheduled flow and hold steps. Both modes were designed to handle the same flow rate and titers from the upstream bioreactor or fed‐batch harvest tank, and were compared in terms of productivity and operational complexity. Both modes offer viable options for continuous processing of mAbs and result in achievement of target critical quality attribute profiles of the final drug product over 24 h of operation.

Conclusions and Implications

It was found that the CC mode was superior in terms of specific productivity (20–50% higher) and consumable utilization (20% lower resin utilization), while the PC mode was operationally simpler and had lower facility costs due to significant reductions in the number of auxiliary equipment (pumps, columns, tanks, and valves). The work successfully highlighted the pros and cons of both approaches, and demonstrates that while several groups have amply shown the superiority of continuous processing over batch mode, there are intermediate variants which may be optimal in a given situation.
A Convergent Synthesis of the Tetrasaccharide Fragment of the Purported Structure of Durantanin I
Authors: Lee Keehwan , Kim Mijin , Rhee Young Ho
Published: March 2021

A convergent synthesis of the tetrasaccharide subunit in the proposed structure of durantanin I is reported. The signature step is represented by the unique assembly of apiofuranoside ring by the sequential PdRu metal catalysis. Per‐dihydroxylation at the late stage delivered the target compound in a highly efficient manner. In addition, a tetrasaccharide derivative possessing unnatural apiose unit was also synthesized with comparable efficiency to that for the natural form.
Does the absence of SARS‐CoV‐2 specific genes always exclude the infection? How to interpret RT‐PCR results?—The scenario of interactive online workshop
Authors: Kocemba‐Pilarczyk Kinga A. , Bentke‐Imiolek Anna , Dudzik Paulina
Published: March 2021

The aim of this online workshop is to familiarize biomedical faculties students with the principle of RT‐PCR method. The following assumption is made, students participating in the workshop:

are already familiar with the principle of PCR reaction,

can distinguish PCR from RT‐PCR,

know the basic possibilities of using the above techniques.

During the online workshop participants are supposed to learn the interpretation of PCR and RT‐PCR results and to understand the crucial importance of controlling the reaction conditions. The workshop involves active students' learning, critical analysis of the data, group discussion, brainstorming method, involvement of e‐tools such as pool everywhere or e‐learning platforms, as well as interpreting the real‐life example results that allows putting the topic in the proper future work‐related tasks. The final part of the workshop focuses on the analysis of the RT‐PCR results performed in order to confirm or exclude the presence of the SARS‐CoV‐2 genome in potentially infected individuals. The students are expected to see the practical/work‐related part of the knowledge gained during the workshop.
Does social influence turn pessimistic consumers green?
Authors: Sadiq Mohd , Adil Mohd , Paul Justin
Published: March 2021

The current research investigates the role of social influence on pessimistic consumers' approach toward organic food consumption using the self‐focused regulations theoretical framework. It also examines the mediating and moderating role of environmental concern and social influence on the proposed relationships, respectively. An e‐survey was conducted on 300 Indian consumers. The findings reveal that pessimistic consumers do not typically consume organic food. However, they have a strong concern for the environment, which, in turn, is likely to change them into optimistic consumers who begin to consume organic foods. Further, social influence significantly motivates pessimistic consumers to adopt organic foods and reduces the concern‐behavior gap. The study provides significant implications for organic food marketers and retailers.
“Periimplant Mucositis” Secondary to Infection of Residual Bone Allograft Embedded in the Periimplant Sulcus of a Patient With Diabetes: A Case Report
Authors: Do Jonathan H.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Currently, inflammation of tissue around implants is diagnosed as either periimplant mucositis or periimplantitis, and the etiology is bacterial biofilm colonization of the implant and its transmucosal component. The purpose of this manuscript is to report a case of “periimplant mucositis” secondary to infection of a residual bone allograft embedded in the periimplant sulcus of a patient with diabetes.

Case Presentation

A #8 implant was placed and provisionalized in a 46‐year‐old male patient. During implant placement, facial contour augmentation with an allograft (1000‐2000 μm), a collagen membrane, and a connective tissue graft was performed. Healing was uneventful. The crown was removed 9 months after implant placement; a graft particulate was observed in the periimplant sulcus and left undisturbed. The subgingival contour of the crown was adjusted, and the crown was reseated. The patient subsequently developed soreness and foul smell at #8. The crown was removed, and the previously observed graft particulate was more exposed and contaminated. It was removed and the crown was reseated. A month later, symptoms persisted. Palpation produced suppuration. A facial flap was reflected, and residual graft particulates embedded in the facial flap were removed. The site was grafted with a connective tissue graft. Subsequently, symptoms resolved, and the implant was restored.

Conclusion(s)

Within the limitation of this case report, it appears residual graft materials can get infected once exposed to the oral cavity and subsequently induce an inflammatory response in the surrounding tissue, especially in a patient with hyperglycemia.
Essential Oils of Polyalthia suberosa Leaf and Twig and Their Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: The Son Ninh , Le Tuan Anh , Thu Thuy Dinh Thi , Dinh Luyen Nguyen , Thi Tuyen Tran
Published: March 2021

Essential oils from the leaf and twig of Polyalthia suberosa (Roxb.) Thwaites were analyzed using GC/MS/FID. A total of sixty‐three constituents were namely identified accounting for 96.03 and 94.12 % in the hydrodistilled oils of the leaf and twig, respectively. Monoterpenes, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenes, and sesquiterpenoids were characteristic derivatives of P. suberosa essential oils. Sesquiterpenes bicyclogermacrene (26.26 %) and (E)‐caryophyllene (7.79 %), and monoterpene β‐pinene (12.71 %) were the major constituents of the leaf oil. Sesquiterpenes (E)‐caryophyllene (17.17 %) and α‐humulene (9.55 %), sesquiterpenoid caryophyllene oxide (9.41 %), and monoterpenes camphene (8.16 %) and tricyclene (6.35 %) were to be main components in the twig oil. The leaf oil indicated cytotoxic activity against three cancer cell lines HepG2, MCF7 and A549 with the IC50 values of 60.96–69.93 μg/mL, while the twig oil inhibited MCF7 with the IC50 value of 66.70 μg/mL. Additionally, the twig oil successfully suppressed the growth of the negative Gram bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, fungus Aspergillus niger, and yeast Candida albicans with the same MIC value of 50 μg/mL, whereas the leaf oil had the same result on the negative Gram bacterium Escherichia coli.
Transition of maternal serum concentration of digoxin and flecainide in the third trimester—A case report of fetal supraventricular tachycardia with hydrops
Authors: Takatsuka Hirokazu , Wakabayashi Kayo , Yamazaki Shingo , Tanaka Hirokazu , Omoto Akiko , Suzuki Takaaki , Shozu Makio , Ishii Itsuko
Published: March 2021

When transplacental therapy is conducted, the maternal serum concentrations of digoxin and flecainide may fluctuate throughout third trimester. Therefore, TDM may be effective in improving the efficacy and safety of treatment.
Reducing N2O Formation over CO‐SCR Systems with CuCe Mixed Metal Oxides
Authors: Sun Ruobing , Yu Feng , Wan Yinji , Pan Keke , Li Wenjian , Zhao Huanhuan , Dan Jianming , Dai Bin
Published: March 2021

In the CO‐SCR reaction, reducing by‐product N2O formation helps to convert more NO into clean N2, which has a great significance to environmental governance. In this study, the CuCe mixed metal oxides with different molar ratios of Cu to Ce were prepared, characterized and evaluated to study the effect on the products of NO reduction by CO. The experimental results showed that the CuCe‐1 : 3 catalyst showed superior NO conversion with over 90 % N2 selectivity in the operating temperature window, and there were no amounts of N2O by‐product at 50–200 °C. The higher oxygen vacancy concentration and appearance of (NO)2 dimer inhibited N2O formation at low temperature. Finally, the reaction paths for the CuCe catalysts generating different products (N2, N2O) were proposed in the CO‐SCR reaction based on in‐situ DRIFTS results.
Photochemical Activation of Aromatic Aldehydes: Synthesis of Amides, Hydroxamic Acids and Esters
Authors: Nikitas Nikolaos F. , Apostolopoulou Mary K. , Skolia Elpida , Tsoukaki Anna , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: March 2021

A cheap, facile and metal‐free photochemical protocol for the activation of aromatic aldehydes has been developed. Utilizing thioxanthen‐9‐one as the photocatalyst and cheap household lamps as the light source, a variety of aromatic aldehydes have been activated and subsequently converted in a one‐pot reaction into amides, hydroxamic acids and esters in good to high yields. The applicability of this method was highlighted in the synthesis of Moclobemide, a drug against depression and social anxiety. Extended and detailed mechanistic studies have been conducted, in order to determine a plausible mechanism for the reaction.