bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of hollow glass microspheres on the polybenzoxazine thermosets: Mechanical, thermal, heat insulation, and morphological properties
Authors: Kiran Sadia , Gorar Athar Ali Khan , Wang Ting , Dayo Abdul Qadeer , Zhang Li‐Li , Wang Jun , Shah Ahmer Hussain , Sami Syed Kamran , Liu Wen‐Bin
Published: September 2021

The growing need for high thermal and mechanical resistant lightweight syntactic foams demands the designing of new materials. Herein, we report the successful fabrication of lightweight and high thermal resistance syntactic foams with excellent thermal and good mechanical properties. For this end, 10–50 wt% hollow glass microsphere (HGMS) containing polybenzoxazine based syntactic foams were prepared by using bisphenol‐A‐aniline (BA‐a) and phenol‐diaminodiphenylmethane (P‐ddm) benzoxazine via curing at 10 MPa compression molding. The curing behavior, tensile, flexural, compressive, and impact strength, thermal properties, and fracture morphology of the syntactic foams were studied by DSC, universal material testing machine, and drop hammer impact testing machine, TGA, and SEM, respectively. The curing temperatures of BA‐a and P‐ddm benzoxazine resins were slightly increased after blending the HGMS. The highest decline (59%) in the density and highest void contains (13.17%) was recorded for the poly(P‐ddm/HGMS50) sample. The excellent specific mechanical properties of the syntactic foams were observed on the 30 wt% HGMS loading. The thermal conductivity of the foams was gradually decreased and the lowest values of 0.106 and 0.0985 W/m.K were observed for poly(BA‐a/HMGS50) and poly(P‐ddm/HGMS50) sample, respectively. Furthermore, a gradual improvement in the thermal properties was observed as the loading of HGMS increased.
A TEMPO‐Functionalized Ordered Mesoporous Polymer as a Highly Active and Reusable Organocatalyst
Authors: Guo Ying , Wang Wei David , Li Shengyu , Zhu Yin , Wang Xiaoyu , Liu Xiao , Zhang Yuan
Published: September 2021

The properties of high stability, periodic porosity, and tunable nature of ordered mesoporous polymers make these materials ideal catalytic nanoreactors. However, their application in organocatalysis has been rarely explored. We report herein for the first time the incorporation of a versatile organocatalyst, 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidinyloxy (TEMPO), into the pores of an FDU‐type mesoporous polymer via a pore surface engineering strategy. The resulting FDU‐15‐TEMPO possesses a highly ordered mesoporous organic framework and enhanced stability, and shows excellent catalytic activity in the selective oxidation of alcohols and aerobic oxidative synthesis of 2‐substituted benzoxazoles, benzimidazoles and benzothiazoles. Moreover, the catalyst can be easily recovered and reused for up to 7 consecutive cycles.
Lectin‐Triggered Aggregation of Glyco‐Gold Nanoprobes for Activity‐based Sensing of Hydrogen Peroxide by the Naked Eye
Authors: Yeh Che‐Ming , Chen Ming‐Chun , Wu Tzu‐Chien , Chen Jyun‐Wei , Lai Chian‐Hui
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to develop a colorimetric assay for detecting hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) through a combination of using an aryl boronate (AB) derivative and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The unique optical property of AuNPs is applied to design a detection probe. The aggregation of AuNPs could be directly observed as a color change by the naked eye. A mannoside‐boronate‐sulfide (MBS) ligand was designed that contains an arylboronate (AB), a mannoside, and a thiol group. The thiol group bonds covalently with the surface of AuNPs to obtain MBS@AuNPs. The mannoside moiety recognizes concanavalin A (Con A), a lectin with four carbohydrate recognition sites that can specifically recognize the non‐reducing end of an α‐D‐mannoside or α‐D‐glucoside structure. The AB structure on MBS first reacts with H2O2 and then inserts an oxygen atom in the B−H bond, which triggers intramolecular electron rearrangement to cleave the covalent bond, resulting in a MBSt mixture. The MBS or MBSt is then modified to citrate‐coated AuNPs (c‐AuNPs) to have MBS@AuNPs or MBSt@AuNPs. When the MBS@AuNPs are incubated with Con A, the Con A recognizes multiple mannosides on the surface of the MBS@AuNPs. Subsequently, the MBS@AuNPs aggregate and the solution's color changes from red to purple, but this color change does not occur in the case of MBSt@AuNPs. The phenomenon can be observed by the naked eye.
From High‐ to Low‐Temperature: The Revival of Sodium‐Beta Alumina for Sodium Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Fertig Micha P. , Skadell Karl , Schulz Matthias , Dirksen Cornelius , Adelhelm Philipp , Stelter Michael
Published: September 2021

Sodium‐based batteries are promising post lithium‐ion technologies because sodium offers a specific capacity of 1166 mAh g−1and a potential of −2.71 V vs. the standard hydrogen electrode. The solid electrolyte sodium‐beta alumina shows a unique combination of properties because it exhibits high ionic conductivity, as well as mechanical stability and chemical stability against sodium. Pairing a sodium negative electrode and sodium‐beta alumina with Na‐ion type positive electrodes, therefore, results in a promising solid‐state cell concept. This review highlights the opportunities and challenges of using sodium‐beta alumina in batteries operating from medium‐ to low‐temperatures (200 °C–20 °C). Firstly, the recent progress in sodium‐beta alumina fabrication and doping methods are summarized. We discuss strategies for modifying the interfaces between sodium‐beta alumina and both the positive and negative electrodes. Secondly, recent achievements in designing full cells with sodium‐beta alumina are summarized and compared. The review concludes with an outlook on future research directions. Overall, this review shows the promising prospects of using sodium‐beta alumina for the development of solid‐state batteries.
Techno‐economic assessment of polylactic acid and polybutylene succinate production in an integrated sugarcane biorefinery
Authors: Ratshoshi Brankie Karabo , Farzad Somayeh , Görgens Johann F.
Published: September 2021

Plastic waste pollution is a growing environmental concern due to the increased use of conventional plastics. This study investigates the techno‐economics of biodegradable, bio‐based plastics, i.e. polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), as potential substitutes for conventional plastics, to identify the most viable one to be produced in a biorefinery annexed to a typical sugar mill. Six potential biorefinery scenarios were simulated in Aspen Plus®, in which PLA or PBS is derived from sugarcane molasses (1G scenarios), bagasse and harvesting residues (2G scenarios) or a mixture of molasses, bagasse, and harvesting residues (1G2G scenarios). The economic feasibility of the PLA and PBS scenarios was evaluated by means of the minimum selling prices (MSP) for an acceptable return on investment. The PLA scenarios showed lower MSPs than PBS with the 1G2G scenario having the lowest MSP (2965 US$ t–1), comparable to the commonly available PLA from corn grain (5140 US$ t–1). Polylactic acid benefited from lower process energy demands (5.5–5.8 MJ kg–1 of biomass or sugars processed) compared to PBS (5.1–8.2 MJ kg–1), which plays a crucial role in an energy self‐sufficient biorefinery. Furthermore, a 1G‐biorefinery was identified producing a fully biobased PBS at an MSP of 2980 US$ t–1 that is price competitive against fossil‐derived PBS (2380 US$ t–1) and partially bio‐derived PBS (4730 US$ t–1). To date, this was the first study to evaluate the detailed techno‐economics of a fully biobased and biodegradable PBS biorefinery in an energy self‐sufficient context, which was demonstrated to be cost‐competitive against both partial bio‐derived PBS and fully bio‐derived PBS. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Hybridbrücken aus CPC‐Platten und Carbonhalbträgern
Authors: Lowiner Christian , Kurath Josef , Sydow Antje , Wietlisbach Basil
Published: September 2021

Bereits heute wird weltweit pro Jahr mehr Sand und Schotter verbaut als durch natürliche Erosionsprozesse entsteht [1]. Aufgrund der fortlaufenden Urbanisierung soll sich zudem die jährliche Abbaumenge von Sand, Schotter und Eisenerz zwischen 2011 und 2060 mehr als verdoppeln [2]. Diesen rückläufigen Ressourcenvorkommen und der globalen Klimaerwärmung soll mit neuen Bauweisen entgegengewirkt werden. CPC – carbon prestressed concrete – ist eine solch neuartige Bauweise in Beton. Die konventionelle Stahlbewehrung wird durch fein verteilte, stark vorgespannte Carbondrähte ersetzt, welche endlos und mehrlagig in beide Hauptrichtungen in der Platte eingebaut sind. Beim neu entwickelten Kleinbrückensystem „CPC‐CARBO“ wird die CPC‐Fahrbahnplatte mit einem Carbonhalbträger ergänzt, welcher unter der Platte liegt und mit dieser über eine vermörtelte Verzahnung verbunden ist. Die so definierte Hybridbrücke ist sehr leicht und trotzdem enorm dauerhaft und robust. Die ohne Stahlteile auskommende Brücke vereinfacht auch die Widerlager wesentlich. Gegenüber einer vergleichbaren Brücke aus Stahlbeton wird mit dieser neuen Bauweise die Arbeitszeit vor Ort stark reduziert und vom Wetter praktisch unabhängig gemacht. Der CO2‐Fußabdruck und der Verbrauch von nicht nachwachsenden Rohstoffen werden wesentlich verkleinert. Der vorliegende Bericht beschreibt eine von bisher drei in der Schweiz gebauten und auf diese Weise konzipierten Kleinbrücken.
Insight into the bioabsorption of Fe‐based materials and their current developments in bone applications
Authors: Md Yusop Abdul Hakim , Ulum Mokhamad Fakhrul , Al Sakkaf Ahmed , Hartanto Djoko , Nur Hadi
Published: September 2021

Iron (Fe) and Fe‐based materials have been vigorously explored in orthopedic applications in the past decade mainly owing to their promising mechanical properties including high yield strength, elastic modulus and ductility. Nevertheless, their corrosion products and low corrosion kinetics are the major concerns that need to be improved further despite their appealing mechanical strengths. The current studies on porous Fe‐based scaffolds show an improved corrosion rate but the in vitro biocompatibility is still problematic in general. Unlike the Mg implants, the biodegradation and bioabsorption of Fe‐based implants are still not well described. This vague issue could implicate the development of Fe‐based materials as potential medical implants as they have not reached the clinical trial stage yet. Thus, there is a need to understand in‐depth the Fe corrosion behavior and its bioabsorption mechanism to facilitate the material design of Fe‐based scaffolds and further improve its biocompatibility. This manuscript provides an important insight into the basic bioabsorption of the multi‐ranged Fe‐based corrosion products with a review of the latest progress on the corrosion & in vitro biocompatibility of porous Fe‐based scaffolds together with the remaining challenges and the perspective on the future direction.
AQP4‐IgG positive paraneoplastic NMOSD: A case report and review
Authors: Ding Manqiu , Lang Yue , Cui Li
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD; also known as Devic syndrome) is a clinical syndrome of central nervous system characterized by immune mediated attacks of acute optic neuritis and myelitis. Paraneoplastic neurological syndrome is a group of nervous system disorders resulting from the remote immune effects of malignant neoplasm. NMOSD occurs mostly in young people, and tumor is not a common cause, especially recurrent tumor.

Methods

We reported a case of a 59‐year‐old man who developed anti‐aquaporin‐4 IgG positive longitudinally extensive myelitis. We also summarized and analyzed previously reported cases of paraneoplastic NMOSD.

Results

Among these 43 patients, 88.4% patients are female. The largest number of patients is between 60 and 69 years old. Breast cancer and lung cancer are the most common types. The most common lesions were located in the cervicothoracic region with patchy gadolinium enhancement. The existing treatment can only delay rather than stop the progress of the disease.

Conclusion

It is necessary to perform tumor screening in patients with NMOSD, especially patients over 50 years.
Optical coherence tomography monitoring and diagnosing retinal changes in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mehmood Arshad , Ali Wajid , Song Shuang , Din Zaheer Ud , Guo Ruo‐Yi , Shah Wahid , Ilahi Ikram , Yin Bowen , Yan Hongjing , Zhang Lu , Khan Murad , Ali Wajid , Zeb Liaqat , Safari Hamidreza , Li Bin
Published: September 2021

This study explores the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to monitor and diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS). The analysis of reduced total macular volume and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thinning are shown. The severity of these defects increases as MS progresses, reflecting the progressive degeneration of nerve fibers and retinal ganglion cells. The OCT parameters are noninvasive, sensitive indicators that can be used to assess the progression of neurodegeneration and inflammation in MS.
Neurosurgical robot‐assistant stereoelectroencephalography system: Operability and accuracy
Authors: Zhang Di , Cui Xuehua , Zheng Jie , Zhang Shunyao , Wang Meng , Lu Wenpeng , Sang Linxia , Li Wenling
Published: September 2021

Background

Fine operation has been an eternal topic in neurosurgery. There were many problems in functional neurosurgery field with high precision requirements. Our study aims to explore the operability, accuracy and postoperative effect of robot‐assisted stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) in neurosurgery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with epilepsy who underwent electrode implantation in our hospital. From 2016 to 2019, the epilepsy center of Hebei people's hospital implanted electrodes in neurosurgery on 24 patients, including 20 with SINO robot‐assisted SEEG system and eight with frame‐SEEG technology.

Result

Robot‐assisted SEEG neurosurgery had higher accuracy, and the mean error of entry and target point was smaller than that of frame SEEG surgery. No bleeding or infection occurred postoperatively, and two patients who underwent robot‐assisted SEEG neurosurgery had electrode displacement. Electrode displacement was observed in two patients, both the entry points were orbital frontal, one in the frame system and one in the robot assistant system. The average placement time of each electrode in robot assisted system surgery was less than that in frame system surgery.

Conclusion

The SINO SEEG electrode implantation assisted by surgical robot‐assistant system manufactured in China is safe, accurate and mature.
Zinc deficiency correlates with severity of diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Hussein Mona , Fathy Wael , Hassan Amr , Elkareem Rehab Abd , Marzouk Salma , Kamal Yasmine Shawki
Published: September 2021

Objectives

There are controversies about the role of zinc in the development of both types 1 and 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess serum zinc level in diabetic patients with and without peripheral neuropathy in comparison to healthy controls and to explore the possible relationship between serum zinc level and severity of peripheral neuropathy.

Methods

This case control study was conducted on 120 subjects: 40 patients fulfilled the criteria for diagnosis of probable diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN), 40 diabetic patients without polyneuropathy (N‐DPN) and 40 healthy controls. DPN patients were submitted to clinical assessment of diabetic neuropathy using neuropathy symptom and change (NSC) scale, Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument Physical Assessment (MNSI) scale and electrophysiological assessment using nerve conduction study. Zinc serum level was measured in all subjects included in this study using direct colorimetric test method.

Results

Diabetic patients with and without neuropathy were found to have significantly lower mean values of serum zinc than healthy controls (p = .025,  .03 respectively). There is a statistically significant negative correlation between zinc serum level and hemoglobin A1C (HA1C) (p ˂ .001), NSC score (p = .001) and MNSI score (p = .003) in DPN group. There were also statistically significant correlations between zinc serum level and nerve conduction study values.

Conclusion

Zinc deficiency significantly correlates with the severity of DPN and glycemic control.
Is blockchain able to enhance environmental sustainability? A systematic review and research agenda from the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Authors: Parmentola Adele , Petrillo Antonella , Tutore Ilaria , De Felice Fabio
Published: September 2021

Blockchain is a disruptive technology that is revolutionizing information technology and represents a change of cultural paradigm for the way in which information is shared. Companies are rushing to understand how they can use blockchain distributed ledger technology to innovate processes, products and transactions. In a globalized world where environmental sustainability is a critical success factor, what is the role of the blockchain? By using a systematic review approach and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) protocol, this study attempts to identify whether and how blockchain technology is considered able to affect environmental sustainability. Findings from 195 studies from 2015 to 2020 were analysed after the search protocol was applied. The results indicate that blockchain technology could contribute to environmentally sustainable development goals (SDGs) from different points of view, such as supporting the realization of a sustainable supply chain, improving energy efficiency and promoting the creation of secure and reliable smart cities. Furthermore, the investigation highlights the sectors where to focus research investments, providing a way to reward sustainable behaviour and increasing environmental sustainability. On the other hand, blockchain has no negligible negative effects on the environment that need to be considered before adoption.
Two New Oleanane‐Triterpenoid Saponins from Clinopodium gracile
Authors: Zhao Ting , Liu Yi‐Nan , Sun Xin‐Yu , Li Jing‐Ya , Lei Chun , Hou Ai‐Jun
Published: September 2021

Two new oleanane‐triterpenoid saponins, clinograsaponins A (1) and B (2), together with twelve known ones (3–14), were isolated from the whole herb of Clinopodium gracile (Bentham) Matsumura. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis and chemical method. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their activities against ATP‐citrate lyase (ACLY) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB).
Trends in outcomes, cost, and readmissions of transcatheter edge to edge repair in the United States (2014–2018)
Authors: Alkhouli Mohamad , Sulaiman Samian , Osman Mohammed , El Shaer Ahmed , Mayahni Abdulah Amer , Kawsara Akram
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Despite the growth in transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (TEER) volume in the United States, data on the temporal changes in procedural outcomes are lacking.

Methods

We utilized the National Readmission Database to assess the annual changes in patient's characteristics, in‐hospital outcomes, cost, and readmissions for patients who underwent TEER between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2018. Outcomes of interest included mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and any adverse event (AE). We also assessed length of stay and cost.

Results

A total of 22,692 hospitalizations were included. The mean age increased from 75.2 ± 12.9 in 2014 to 78.1 ± 9.8 years in 2018. Changes in the prevalence of risk factors were heterogenous. The incidence of in‐hospital mortality decreased from 4.0% in 2014 to 2.0% in 2018. Both MACE and any AE decreased significantly. Although the incidence of 30‐day readmission remained stable, there was a trend towards a temporal increase in both 90‐day and 180‐day. The adjusted median length of stay of the index admission decreased by 50% and this trend was associated with a $2100 reduction in risk and inflation adjusted in‐hospital cost, however, this reduction was offset by the increased total cost of readmissions within the first 6 months resulting in similar net‐cost.

Conclusion

The volume of TEER has grown substantially between 2014 and 2018 coupled with a temporal improvement in in‐hospital outcomes and reduction in cost and length of stay. Re‐hospitalization rates after TEER remained steady at 30‐day and trended towards worsening overtime at 90‐ and 180‐days.
Impact of Carbon Support Meso‐Porosity on Mass Transport and Performance of PEMFC Cathode Catalyst Layers
Authors: Ott Sebastian , Bauer Andreas , Du Fengmin , Dao Tuan Anh , Klingenhof Malte , Orfanidi Alin , Strasser Peter
Published: September 2021

The analysis of the impact of the cathode catalyst layer pore structure on the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell performance of a PEMFC is presented. In this study, a pristine CMK‐3 catalyst carbon support material with well‐defined pore structure in the 3–6 nm range together with two nitrogen‐doped variants is analyzed against a commercial carbon black to achieve a better understanding of catalyst layer porosity‐performance relations. We used chemically N‐doped CMK‐3 catalyst to learn more about the effect of N‐doped porous catalyst supports on the concomitant transport properties and PEMFC cell performance. Chemical treatment using cyanamide was conducted to introduce a variety of N‐functionalities. A detailed in‐situ electrochemical investigation was combined with N2‐physisorption analysis. Based on their structural properties, the mesopore fractions and pore openings display a major role for reducing oxygen transport resistance and enhance Pt accessibility. We find that hierarchically ordered mesoporosity is superior to disordered porosity with prevalent micropore character: Analysis including adsorption electrochemical active surface area (ECSA), Pt‐accessibility, ionomer coverage, pore geometry, proton resistivity and transport loss we conclude the importance of a well‐defined mesoporous structure for its cell performance.
Computational Mechanistic Study of Fused Phenol Formations from 1,6‐Heptadiyne Involving Carbyne Complexes
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshihiko
Published: September 2021

The reaction of a tungsten carbyne complex, MeC≡WBr(CO)4, with 1,6‐heptadiyne was investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. It was suggested that the plausible mechanism involves [2+2] cycloaddition of the carbyne with the diyne, subsequent insertion of CO and alkyne into a metallacyclobutadiene intermediate, and a final reductive elimination step from a metallacycloheptatrienone intermediate to produce a η5‐cyclohexadienyl complex. A related Ru‐catalyzed reaction of 1,6‐heptadiyne involving a hydroxycarbyne complex was investigated to propose a possible pathway starting from a bis(hydroxycarbyne) complex, (HOC≡)2Ru(CO)2. It was found that the biscarbyne complex undergoes carbyne‐carbyne coupling to generate a stable metallacyclopropene intermediate, which reacts with 1,6‐heptadiyne through two different pathways to produce the final η6‐arene complex. Moreover, a non‐carbyne pathway was also investigated to propose an alternative mechanism.
A Chemical Evolution‐Like Method to Synthesize a Water‐Oxidizing Catalyst
Authors: Moghaddam Navid Jameei , Feizi Hadi , Mohammadi Mohammad Reza , Bagheri Robabeh , Chernev Petko , Song Zhenlun , Dau Holger , Najafpour Mohammad Mahdi
Published: September 2021

The development of new procedures for synthesizing new, low‐cost, and stable metal oxides for the oxygen‐evolution reaction (OER) by water oxidation is critical. Since the 2000s, there has been a rapid rise in the use of first‐row transition metal (hydr)oxides for the OER. However, there is still a need to design and synthesize an efficient and stable catalyst for the OER. The present paper aims to design and synthesize an OER catalyst based on “a look at nature” strategy. In a simple and chemical evolution‐like experiment, for the first time, a solution composed of various perchlorate cations, namely, Li(I), Mg(II), Ca(II), Al(III), Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), Ba(II), and Na2SiO3, at a concentration of 1.0 mM at pH=4 and a potential of 1.40 V vs. NHE, which was under stirring for 15 days, was investigated. The stable OER catalyst on the electrode was characterized by X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Based on the extrapolation of the Tafel plot, the onset of the OER in the presence of this catalyst was 130 mV lower than a bare electrode without it. This approach could be a roadmap to design and synthesize new and stable catalysts.
TEMPO‐Modified Polymethacrylates as Mediators in Electrosynthesis – Redox Behavior and Electrocatalytic Activity toward Alcohol Substrates
Authors: Mohebbati Nayereh , Prudlik Adrian , Scherkus Anton , Gudkova Aija , Francke Robert
Published: September 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Robert Francke at the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (LIKAT Rostock). The cover picture illustrates the anodic oxidation of 4‐methoxybenzyl alcohol catalyzed by TEMPO‐modified polymethacrylate, one of the model reactions that was used to study the catalytic behavior of the polymediator. Two transformations are shown, one proceeding at the electrode surface (left) and one in solution (right), indicating that the electrocatalytic process comprises both homogeneous and heterogeneous contributions. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202100768.
Facile Synthesis of Alkylidene Phthalides by Rhodium‐Catalyzed Domino C−H Acylation/Annulation of Benzamides with Aliphatic Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Liu Sien , He Bangyue , Li Hongyi , Zhang Xiaofeng , Shang Yaping , Su Weiping
Published: September 2021

The Rh‐catalyzed ortho‐C(sp2)−H functionalization of 8‐aminoquinoline‐derived benzamides with aliphatic acyl fluorides generated in situ from the corresponding acids has been developed. This reaction initiated with 8‐aminoquinoline‐directed ortho‐C(sp2)−H acylation, which was accompanied by subsequent intramolecular nucleophilic acyl substitution of amide group to produce alkylidene phthalides This approach exhibits high stereo‐selectivity for Z‐isomer products, and tolerates a variety of functional groups as well as aliphatic carboxylic acids with diverse structural scaffolds.
Calcined ZnTi‐Layered Double Hydroxide Intercalated with H3PW12O40 with Efficiently Photocatalytic and Adsorption Performances
Authors: Zou Xinyu , Shi Rui , Zhang Zhijuan , Fu Guoyuan , Li Lei , Yu Li , Tian Yurun , Luo Fang
Published: September 2021

Wastewater treatment is of great significance to environmental remediation. The exploration of efficient and stable methods for wastewater treatment is still a challenging issue. Herein, a heterojunction material with photocatalysis and adsorption properties has been designed to remove the complex pollutants from wastewater. The heterojunction material (ZnO/TiO2−PW12, PW12=[PW12O40]3−) was synthesized by calcining the ZnTi−layered double hydroxide (ZnTi‐LDH) intercalated with the Keggin‐type polyoxometalate H3PW12O40. In the construction of ZnO/TiO2−PW12 it was found that the polyanionic PW12 remained unchanged in the process of forming the proposed heterojunction. The photochemical properties verify that heterojunction synergistic with PW12 facilitated the separation of photoproduced electron‐hole pairs and thus suppressed the recombination. Therefore, ZnO/TiO2−PW12 exhibits excellent photocatalytic property, and the efficiency of Cr(VI) photoreduction reached more than 90 % in the first 3 min. Furthermore, the electrostatic force between the PW12 and cationic dyes makes ZnO/TiO2−PW12 having an outstanding adsorption performance for cationic dyes, such as rhodamine B, crystal violet and methyl blue. Such heterojunction material combined with polyoxometalate puts forward new insights for the design of functional materials for water treatment with low cost and high efficiency.
Covalent Linkage of BODIPY‐Photosensitizers to Anderson‐Type Polyoxometalates Using CLICK Chemistry
Authors: Cetindere Seda , Clausing Simon T. , Anjass Montaha , Luo Yusen , Kupfer Stephan , Dietzek Benjamin , Streb Carsten
Published: September 2021

The covalent attachment of molecular photosensitizers (PS) to polyoxometalates (POMs) opens new pathways to PS‐POM dyads for light‐driven charge‐transfer and charge‐storage. Here, we report a synthetic route for the covalent linkage of BODIPY‐dyes to Anderson‐type polyoxomolybdates by using CLICK chemistry (i. e. copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition, CuAAC). Photophysical properties of the dyad were investigated by combined experimental and theoretical methods and highlight the role of both sub‐components for the charge‐separation properties. The study demonstrates how CLICK chemistry can be used for the versatile linkage of organic functional units to molecular metal oxide clusters.
Development of Red‐Shifted and Fluorogenic Nucleoside and Oligonucleotide Diarylethene Photoswitches
Authors: Kolmar Theresa , Becker Antonia , Pfretzschner Ronja A. , Lelke Alina , Jäschke Andres
Published: September 2021

The reversible modulation of fluorescence signals by light is of high interest for applications in super‐resolution microscopy, especially on the DNA level. In this article we describe the systematic variation of the core structure in nucleoside‐based diarylethenes (DAEs), in order to generate intrinsically fluorescent photochromes. The introduction of aromatic bridging units resulted in a bathochromic shift of the visible absorption maximum of the closed‐ring form, but caused reduced thermal stability and switching efficiency. The replacement of the thiophene aryl unit by thiazol improved the thermal stability, whereas the introduction of a benzothiophene unit led to inherent and modulatable turn‐off fluorescence. This feature was further optimized by introducing a fluorescent indole nucleobase into the DAE core, resulting in an effective photoswitch with a fluorescence quantum yield of 0.0166 and a fluorescence turn‐off factor of 3.2. The site‐specific incorporation into an oligonucleotide resulted in fluorescence‐switchable DNA with high cyclization quantum yields and switching efficiency, which may facilitate future applications.
Kinetic Stabilization of Blue‐Emissive Anthracenes: Phenylene Bridging Works Best
Authors: Nathusius Marvin , Sleeman Daniel , Pan Junyou , Rominger Frank , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F. , Müllen Klaus
Published: September 2021

In attempts at kinetically stabilizing blue‐emissive anthracenes, a series of 9,10‐diaryl substituted derivatives were tested for their photochemical and photooxidative persistence. A major breakthrough in light fastness comes from a new bis‐meta‐terphenylyl substituted anthracene which is much superior to industrially relevant 9,10‐biarylated anthracenes. The key issue is the steric shielding of the anthracene core. Further, intramolecular ring closure via Yamamoto coupling furnished a doubly bridged anthracene as a “self‐encapsulated” sky‐blue emitter which is most resistant to photodegradation. The improved stabilization was corroborated by time‐resolved irradiation experiments and rationalized by X‐ray crystallography.
Removing the Obstacle to (−)‐Menthol Biosynthesis by Building a Microbial Cell Factory of (+)‐cis‐Isopulegone from (−)‐Limonene
Authors: Shou Chao , Zheng Yu‐Cong , Zhan Jing‐Ru , Li Chun‐Xiu , Xu Jian‐He
Published: September 2021

Microbial synthesis of plant‐based (−)‐menthol is of great interest because of its high demand (≈30 kiloton per year) as well as unique odor and cooling characteristics. However, this remains a great challenge due to the yet unfilled gap between (−)‐limonene and (+)‐cis‐isopulegone. Herein, the first artificial and effective system was developed for (+)‐cis‐isopulegone biosynthesis from (−)‐limonene by recruiting two bacterial enzymes to replace their inefficient counterparts from Mentha piperita, limonene‐3‐hydroxylase, and isopiperitenol dehydrogenase. A cofactor self‐regenerative recombinant Escherichia coli strain was constructed by introducing a formate dehydrogenase for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) regeneration and an engineered microbial isopiperitenol dehydrogenase. The production of (+)‐cis‐isopulegone (up to 281.2 mg L−1) was improved by 36 times compared with that of the initial strain. This work lays a reliable foundation for the microbial synthesis of (−)‐menthol.
Synthesis and Electronic Modulation of Nanostructured Layered Double Hydroxides for Efficient Electrochemical Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Wang Ting , Wang Weiwen , Shao Wenjie , Bai Mingru , Zhou Mi , Li Shuang , Ma Tian , Ma Lang , Cheng Chong , Liu Xikui
Published: September 2021

Water electrolysis is considered to be one of the most promising technologies to produce clean fuels. However, its extensive realization critically depends on the progress in cost‐effective and high‐powered oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts. As a member of the big family of two‐dimensional (2D) materials, nanostructured layered double hydroxides (nLDHs) have made significant processes and continuous breakthroughs for OER electrocatalysis. In this Review, the advancements in designing nLDHs for OER in recent years were discussed with a unique focus on their electronic modulations and in situ analysis on catalytic processes. After a brief discussion on different synthetic methodologies of nLDHs, including “bottom‐up” and “top‐down” approaches, the general strategies to enhance the catalytic performances of nLDHs reported so far were summarized, including compositional substitution, heteroatom doping, vacancy engineering, and amorphous/crystalline engineering. Furthermore, the in situ OER processes and mechanism analysis on engineering efficient nLDHs electrocatalysts were discussed. Finally, the research trends, perspectives, and challenges on designing nLDHs were also carefully outlined. This progress Review may offer enlightening experimental/theoretical guidance for designing highly catalytic active nLDHs and provide new directions to promote their future prosperity for practical utilization in water splitting.
Reliability of an automated gaze‐controlled paradigm for capturing neural responses during visual and face processing in toddlerhood
Authors: Haartsen Rianne , Mason Luke , Braithwaite Eleanor K. , Del Bianco Teresa , Johnson Mark H. , Jones Emily J. H.
Published: September 2021

Electroencephalography (EEG) has substantial potential value for examining individual differences during early development. Current challenges in developmental EEG research include high dropout rates and low trial numbers, which may in part be due to passive stimulus presentation. Comparability is challenged by idiosyncratic processing pipelines. We present a novel toolbox (“Braintools”) that uses gaze‐contingent stimulus presentation and an automated processing pipeline suitable for measuring visual processing through low‐density EEG recordings in the field. We tested the feasibility of this toolbox in 61 2.5‐ to 4‐year olds, and computed test–retest reliability (1‐ to 2‐week interval) of event‐related potentials (ERP) associated with visual (P1) and face processing (N290, P400). Feasibility was good, with 52 toddlers providing some EEG data at the first session. Reliability values for ERP features were moderate when derived from 20 trials; this would allow inclusion of 79% of the 61 toddlers for the P1 and 82% for the N290 and P400. P1 amplitude/latency were more reliable across sessions than for the N290 and P400. Amplitudes were generally more reliable than latencies. Automated and standardized solutions to collection and analysis of event‐related EEG data would allow efficient application in large‐scale global health studies, opening significant potential for examining individual differences in development.
Return of fear following extinction in youth: An event‐related potential study
Authors: Danon‐Kraun Shani , Horovitz Omer , Frenkel Tahl , Richter‐Levin Gal , Pine Daniel S. , Shechner Tomer
Published: September 2021

The ability to learn to differentiate safety from danger matures gradually, particularly when such learning occurs over an extended time period. And yet, most research on fear learning examines the early phases of such learning and mainly in adults. The current study examined fear conditioning and extinction, as well as one form of extended learning, return of fear (ROF). Thirty‐three typically developing children (age range: 7–14 years) completed fear conditioning and extinction; self‐reports and psychophysiological indices were measured at this point. Two weeks later, children completed a ROF test (n = 23), and event‐related potentials (ERPs) were recorded. Results indicated successful fear acquisition and extinction. Moreover, participants reported greater fear of the conditioned stimulus (CS+) than the safety stimulus (CS–) in the ROF test 2 weeks later. In electrophysiology data, ROF manifested as a larger late positive potential (LPP) response to the CS+ than the CS–. Finally, these differences in LPP responses were positively correlated with poorer extinction, as indicated by the GSR responses 2 weeks earlier. This is the first ERP study to demonstrate ROF in children. The LPP measure may index an interplay between inhibitory and excitatory brain‐related processes underlying the long‐term effects of fear learning.
An Electrochemical Approach to Quantification of Volatile Organic Solvents Dispersed in Solution – Towards Bipolar Electrode Sensors
Authors: Kaluza Dawid , Węgrzyn Katarzyna , Kaczmarczyk Brian , Gniadek Marianna , Maksymiuk Krzysztof , Michalska Agata
Published: September 2021

A novel approach to electrochemical determination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) suspended in a solution is proposed. This approach benefits from properties of capacitors linked in series, where the total capacitance is affected by analyte induced changes. A tailor designed hydrophobic PVDF membrane modified with polyoctylthiophene used in this arrangement played a role of a bipolar electrode. The presence of water immiscible liquid VOCs results in spontaneous formation of a thin film on the surface of the hydrophobic polymer membrane and dissolution of modifying particulates. This effect leads to change of electrical parameters of the system: capacitance and resistance dependent on amount of VOCs present in the aqueous phase.
Effects of two grip force levels and forearm postures on hand‐arm transmitted vibration and physiological responses
Authors: Revilla Josefa Angelie , Loh Ping Yeap , Muraki Satoshi
Published: September 2021

Vibration transmitted to the upper limb is the primary source of occupational musculoskeletal disorder. Transmissibility is not just caused by vibration magnitude but is also directly influenced by the applied force and posture. This study investigated the effects of two forearm postures and grip force levels, when using dual‐handle guided equipment, on hand‐arm transmitted vibration and physiological responses. Sixteen young male adults were recruited. Pre‐task and post‐task assessments including grip strength and perceived discomfort were measured. The task was to hold a vibrating handlebar for 5 ‐min under four randomly sequenced conditions: N/PM/H—neutral/pronated forearm and mild/hard grip. Transmissibility and forearm muscle activities were recorded during each task. It was discovered that neutral posture led to higher wrist and elbow transmissibility, whereas hard grip resulted in higher elbow transmissibility, forearm muscle activities, grip strength reduction, and distal arm discomfort. Furthermore, the interaction between the effects of posture and force significantly influenced wrist extensor activity (NH > PH; NM = PM), proximal arm discomfort (NH < PH; NM = PM), and wrist transmissibility (PH > PM; NH = NM). Essentially, with constant vibration and exposure duration, the application of sustained hard grip had more negative physiological effects because of the greater physical workload toward the hands and forearms. Moreover, gripping hard during pronation led to higher discomfort that reached the proximal arm because a greater effort was required. Hence, a neutral forearm posture is recommended when the tasks require forceful movements and either posture is suggested when less powerful movements are involved.
Aberrant slow waves in the hippocampus during activation in mice with low cholinergic tone
Authors: Leung L. Stan , Chu Liangwei
Published: September 2021

The effects of acetylcholine on cortical activation were studied in wild‐type (WT) mice, compared to knockout (KO) mice depleted of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) gene in the basal forebrain, and knockdown (KD) mice with heterogeneous depletion of VAChT gene in the brain. Cortical activation was assessed by comparing power spectra of local field potentials (LFPs) during activated states of rapid‐eye‐movement sleep (REM) or walk (WLK), with those during non‐activated states of slow‐wave sleep (SWS) or awake‐immobility (IMM). Activation‐induced suppression of delta (1–4 Hz) and beta (13–30 Hz) power in the hippocampus, and delta power in frontal cortex, were reduced in KO and KD mice compared to WT mice. Mean theta frequency was higher in KD than KO mice during WLK and REM, but not different between WT and KO mice. Peak theta (4–12 Hz) and integrated gamma (30–150 Hz) power were not significantly different among mouse groups. However, theta‐peak‐frequency selected gamma2 (62–100 Hz) power was lower in KO than WT or KD mice during WLK, and theta‐peak‐frequency selected theta power during REM decreased faster with high theta frequency in KO than WT/ KD mice. Theta power increase during REM compared to WLK was lower in KO and KD mice compared to WT mice. Theta–gamma cross‐frequency coherence, a measure of synchronization of gamma with theta phase, was not different among mouse groups. However, during REM, SWS, and IMM, delta‐gamma coherence was significantly higher and proximal–distal delta coherence in CA1 was lower in KO than WT/KD mice. We conclude that a deficiency in basal forebrain acetylcholine release not only enhances slow waves and suppresses theta‐associated gamma waves during activation, but also increases delta‐gamma cross‐frequency coherence during nonactivated states, with a possible effect of disrupting cognitive processing during any brain state.
Disparity analysis and prognostic value of pretreatment whole blood Epstein‐Barr virus DNA load and Epstein‐Barr encoding region status in lymphomas: A retrospective multicenter study in Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group
Authors: Shen Ziyuan , Hu Lingling , Yao Mingkang , He Chenlu , Liu Qinhua , Wang Fei , Gu Weiying , Wang Ying , Dong Manyu , Zhu Taigang , Yin Ting , Li Fei , Jin Yingliang , Huang Shuiping , Zhang Hao , Sang Wei ,   Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group (HHLWG)
Published: September 2021

Elevated Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) DNA load is common in lymphomas. However, it remains unclear whether the disparity in viral load and its prognostic value in lymphomas are correlated with Epstein‐Barr encoding region (EBER) status. In this retrospective multicenter study, we collected the data of pretreatment whole blood EBV DNA (pre‐EBV DNA) and EBER status and evaluated their disparity and prognostic values in lymphomas. A total of 454 lymphoma patients from December 2014 to August 2020 were retrospectively retrieved. Mann‐Whitney U test, Kruskal‐Wallis test and Bonferroni's adjustment were used to explore the disparity of EBV DNA and EBER status in lymphomas. Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic analysis and MaxStat analysis were used to determine optimal cutoff points of pre‐EBV DNA load. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were established for the estimation of prognostic factors. The positive rate of EBV DNA in natural killer T‐cell lymphoma (NKTL) patients was higher than that in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma (FL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients, and the median positive pre‐EBV copy number of NKTL was also higher than that of FL and DLBCL. EBV DNA could clearly distinguish the prognosis of DLBCL, NKTL, HL and peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, and the integration of EBER status and EBV DNA could differentiate the prognosis of HL patients. Multivariable results revealed that pre‐EBV DNA load had an effect on the prognosis of NKTL, FL and DLBCL. The status of pre‐EBV DNA and EBER were disparate. Whole blood pre‐EBV DNA predicted the prognosis of lymphomas, and the combination of EBV and EBER status could differentiate the prognosis of HL.
High serum uric acid may associate with the increased risk of colorectal cancer in females: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Mi Ningning , Huang Junjun , Huang Chongfei , Lin Yanyan , He Qiangsheng , Wang Haiping , Yang Man , Lu Yawen , Lawer Atteh Lawrence , Yue Ping , Bai Bing , Zhang Jinduo , Zhang Chao , Cai Teng , Fu Wenkang , Gao Long , Li Xun , Yuan Jinqiu , Meng Wenbo
Published: September 2021

Elevated serum uric acid (SUA) levels have been previously reported to play a role in multiple types of cancers. However, epidemiological studies evaluating SUA levels and colorectal cancer risk remain sparse. This cohort study included 444 462 participants between the ages of 40 and 69 years from the UK Biobank, followed up from 2006 to 2010. Multivariable adjusted Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs). During a mean follow‐up of 6.6 years, 2033 and 855 cases of colon and rectal cancers, respectively, were diagnosed. The multivariable‐adjusted HRs for risks of colon cancer in the lowest uric acid categories (≤3.5 mg/dL) compared with the reference groups were 1.31 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.75‐2.29) in males and 1.26 (95% CI = 1.03‐1.55) in females. The HRs in the highest uric acid groups (>8.4 mg/dL) were 1.16 (95% CI = 0.83‐1.63) in males and 2.00 (95% CI = 1.02‐3.92) in females. The corresponding HRs of rectal cancer in the lowest uric acid groups compared with the reference group were 2.21 (95% CI = 1.15‐4.23) in males and 0.98 (95% CI = 0.66‐1.45) in females. The HRs in the highest uric acid groups were 1.35 (95% CI = 0.82‐2.23) in males and 3.81 (95% CI = 1.38‐10.56) in females. In conclusion, SUA showed a U‐shaped association with colon cancer risk in both male and female populations. The same pattern was observed in male patients with rectal cancer. However, SUA levels were positively associated with occurrence of rectal cancer in female subjects.
FIGO good practice recommendations on reduction of preterm birth in pregnancies conceived by assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Mol Ben W. , Jacobsson Bo , Grobman William A. , Moley Kelle ,   the FIGO Working Group for Preterm Birth
Published: September 2021

FIGO (the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) supports assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to achieve pregnancy and supports their availability in all nations. However, the increased frequency of preterm birth must be taken into account. Therefore, before in vitro fertilization (IVF) is started, other approaches, including expectant management, should be considered. Single embryo transfer is the best approach to ensure a live, healthy child. However, increased risks for preterm birth are also associated with a singleton IVF pregnancy and should be discussed and contrasted with spontaneous conception. Increased preterm birth and other adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton IVF cycles warrant investigations to elucidate and mitigate. Minimizing embryo manipulation during cell culture is recommended. Increased risk of preterm birth and other pregnancy complications in ART could reflect the underlying reasons for infertility. This information should be discussed and further explored.