bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid Synthesis and Sintering of Metals from Powders
Authors: Wang Chengwei , Zhong Wei , Ping Weiwei , Lin Zhiwei , Wang Ruiliu , Dai Jiaqi , Guo Miao , Xiong Wei , Zhao Ji‐Cheng , Hu Liangbing
Published: March 2021

Powder to bulk processes, such as additive manufacturing and metal injection molding (MIM), have enabled great potential for complex metal designing and manufacturing. However, additive manufacturing process normally introduces a high residue stress and textures due to the locally intense temperature. MIM is an excellent batch manufacturing process; nevertheless, it is not suitable for rapid screening and development of new metal compositions and structures due to the slow sintering process. Herein, an ultrafast high‐temperature sintering (UHS) process is reported that enables the rapid synthesis and sintering of bulk metals/alloys and intermetallic compounds. In this process, elemental powders are mixed and pressed into pellets, followed by UHS sintering in just seconds at a temperature between 1000 and 3000 °C. Three representative compositions, including pure metals, intermetallics, and multielement alloys, are demonstrated with a broad range of melting points. The UHS process for metal sintering is nonmaterials specific, in addition to being extremely rapid, which make it suitable for materials discovery. Furthermore, the sintering method does not apply pressure to the samples, making it compatible with 3D printing and other additive manufacturing processes of complex structures. This rapid sintering technique will greatly facilitate the development and manufacturing of metals and alloys.
High‐Efficiency Digital Inkjet‐Printed Non‐Fullerene Polymer Blends Using Non‐Halogenated Solvents
Authors: Perkhun Pavlo , Köntges Wolfgang , Pourcin Florent , Esteoulle Daniel , Barulina Elena , Yoshimoto Noriyuki , Pierron Pascal , Margeat Olivier , Videlot-Ackermann Christine , Bharwal Anil Kumar , Duché David , Herrero Carmen Ruiz , Gonzales Cedric , Guerrero Antonio , Bisquert Juan , Schröder Rasmus R. , Pfannmöller Martin , Ben Dkhil Sadok , Simon Jean-Jacques , Ackermann Jörg
Published: March 2021

Inkjet printing (IJP) of polymer solar cells is ideal for small‐area off‐grid electronics with low power consumption. However, IJP is quite a complex technique compared with techniques such as spin coating or doctor blading. The IJP of polymer blends is reported based on ITIC derivatives as non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) using non‐halogenated solvents. The results show that fluorination of NFA is essential to form highly stable inks in o‐xylene, because ITIC has significantly insufficient solubility compared with ITIC‐4F. The importance of tetralin as a multifunctional co‐solvent for printing highly efficient PM6:ITIC‐4F blends is demonstrated, as even at very low concentrations, tetralin not only improves ink jettability and open nozzle time, but also improves drying behavior of the blend layer, resulting in blends with homogeneous micro‐ and nanoscale morphology. The resulting solar cells using inkjet‐printed polymer blends show a maximum efficiency of 10.1%. Moreover, IJP produces significant changes in the nanoscale and microscale morphology. In particular, the formation of a thin PM6 capping layer on the blend surface along with improved phase separation and crystallinity in both the donor and acceptor greatly reduces the recombination of charge carriers in thick blends, making inkjet‐printed photoactive films very promising for industrial applications.
Interseeded pennycress and camelina yield and influence on row crops
Authors: Patel Swetabh , Lenssen Andrew W. , Moore Kenneth J. , Mohammed Yesuf A. , Gesch Russ W. , Wells M. Scott , Johnson Burton L. , Berti Marisol T. , Matthees Heather L.
Published: March 2021

Field pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) (PC) and winter camelina [Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz] (WC) have the potential to provide ecosystem services and economic incentives when adopted as an oilseed cover crops in corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotations. However, PC and WC establishment and yield in the northern Corn Belt and their subsequent impact on row crops are not well known. This study was conducted to determine the effects of interseeding dates (R4, R5, and R6; and R6, R7, and R8 development stages for corn and soybean, respectively) and cover crop species (PC, WC, and winter rye [Secale cereale L.]) on seed yield and oil content of interseeded oilseeds (PC and WC) and relay soybean, and 3rd‐year corn grain yield and quality. Study sites were initiated near Ames, IA; Morris and Rosemount, MN; and Prosper, ND. Late interseeding of PC and WC resulted in greater oilseed yield. Overall yields of PC (218–880 kg ha–1) and WC (15–770 kg ha–1), averaged across interseeding dates, were low when interseeded in corn and soybean. The PC and WC reduced relay‐soybean grain yield by 13–32% and 13–42%, respectively. Corn grain yield and quality following relay soybean were not affected by the residual effects of oilseed cover crops. Based on the results of our study, we do not recommend relay cropping soybean with PC and WC in the upper Midwest.
Right inguinal metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fu Chia‐Chu , Lei Hao‐Jan , Wang Lei‐Chi , Wei Cheng‐Yi , Su Chien‐Wei , Hou Ming‐Chih , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Lee Pei‐Chang
Published: March 2021

Inguinal hernias are common diseases, but malignant lesions in groin hernias are rare; metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the hernia sac is extremely rare. We report a 72‐year‐old man who had advanced stage HCC with portal vein invasion and multiple metastatic lymphadenopathies. He presented a painless palpable mass in the right groin. Computed tomography scan showed a contrast‐enhanced soft tissue mass (2.8 cm in size) at the right herniated inguinal sac. Tumor excision and hernia repair were performed, and the histopathological examination revealed metastatic HCC. After being stabilized from surgery, the patient received combination therapy with sorafenib and nivolumab; however, he still died of rapid tumor progression and liver decompensation 1 month later. This case raises clinical awareness of unusual extrahepatic metastases of HCC, especially for patients at an advanced tumor stage.
Construction of Flexible Amine‐linked Covalent Organic Frameworks by Catalysis and Reduction of Formic Acid via the Eschweiler–Clarke Reaction
Authors: Zhang Meicheng , Li Yang , Yuan Wenli , Guo Xinghua , Bai Chiyao , Zou Yingdi , Long Honghan , Qi Yue , Li Shoujian , Tao Guohong , Xia Chuanqin , Ma Lijian
Published: March 2021

Compared to the current mainstream rigid covalent organic frameworks (COFs) linked by imine bonds, flexible COFs have certain advantages of elasticity and self‐adaptability, but their construction and application are greatly limited by the complexity in synthesis and difficulty in obtaining regular structure. Herein, we reported for the first time a series of flexible amine‐linked COFs with high crystallinity synthesized by formic acid with unique catalytic and reductive bifunctional properties, rather than acetic acid, the most common catalyst for COF synthesis. The reaction mechanism was demonstrated to be a synchronous in situ reduction during the formation of imine bond. The flexibilities of the products endow them with accommodative adaptability to guest molecules, thus increasing the adsorption capacities for nitrogen and iodine by 27 % and 22 %, respectively. Impressively, a novel concept of flexibilization degree was proposed firstly, which provides an effective approach to rationally measure the flexibility of COFs.
A SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike Binding DNA Aptamer that Inhibits Pseudovirus Infection by an RBD‐Independent Mechanism**
Authors: Schmitz Anton , Weber Anna , Bayin Mehtap , Breuers Stefan , Fieberg Volkmar , Famulok Michael , Mayer Günter
Published: March 2021

The receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike glycoprotein of the coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 (CoV2‐S) binds to the human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) representing the initial contact point for leveraging the infection cascade. We used an automated selection process and identified an aptamer that specifically interacts with CoV2‐S. The aptamer does not bind to the RBD of CoV2‐S and does not block the interaction of CoV2‐S with ACE2. Nevertheless, infection studies revealed potent and specific inhibition of pseudoviral infection by the aptamer. The present study opens up new vistas in developing SARS‐CoV2 infection inhibitors, independent of blocking the ACE2 interaction of the virus, and harnesses aptamers as potential drug candidates and tools to disentangle hitherto inaccessible infection modalities, which is of particular interest in light of the increasing number of escape mutants that are currently being reported.
Molecular‐Rotor‐Driven Advanced Porous Materials
Authors: Dong Jinqiao , Wee Vanessa , Peh Shing Bo , Zhao Dan
Published: March 2021

Advanced porous materials (APMs)—such as metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) and porous organic polymers (POPs)—have emerged as an exciting research frontier of chemistry and materials science. Given their tunable pore size and extensive diversity, APMs have found widespread applications. In addition, adding dynamic functional groups to porous solids furthers the development of stimuli‐responsive materials. By incorporating moving elements—molecular rotors—into the porous frameworks, molecular‐rotor‐driven advanced porous materials (MR‐APMs) can respond reversibly to chemical and physical stimuli, thus imparting dynamic functionalities that have not been found in conventional porous materials. This Minireview discusses exemplary MR‐APMs in terms of their design, synthesis, rotor dynamics, and potential applications.
Direct Mapping of Phospholipid Ferroptotic Death Signals in Cells and Tissues by Gas Cluster Ion Beam Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (GCIB‐SIMS)
Authors: Sparvero Louis J. , Tian Hua , Amoscato Andrew A. , Sun Wan‐Yang , Anthonymuthu Tamil S. , Tyurina Yulia Y. , Kapralov Oleksandr , Javadov Sabzali , He Rong‐Rong , Watkins Simon C. , Winograd Nicholas , Kagan Valerian E. , Bayır Hülya
Published: March 2021

Peroxidized phosphatidylethanolamine (PEox) species have been identified by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) as predictive biomarkers of ferroptosis, a new program of regulated cell death. However, the presence and subcellular distribution of PEox in specific cell types and tissues have not been directly detected by imaging protocols. By applying gas cluster ion beam secondary ion mass spectrometry (GCIB‐SIMS) imaging with a 70 keV (H2O)n+ (n>28 000) cluster ion beam, we were able to map PEox with 1.2 μm spatial resolution at the single cell/subcellular level in ferroptotic H9c2 cardiomyocytes and cortical/hippocampal neurons after traumatic brain injury. Application of this protocol affords visualization of physiologically relevant levels of very low abundance (20 pmol μmol−1 lipid) peroxidized lipids in subcellular compartments and their accumulation in disease conditions.
How students use deliberate practice during the first stage of counsellor training
Authors: McLeod Julia
Published: March 2021

Deliberate practice, in the form of ongoing commitment to skill development outside of direct clinical work, has been proposed as a means of enhancing therapist competence and expertise. In this study, a deliberate practice orientation was introduced into the first phase of a counsellor training programme. Students’ experiences of learning and using deliberate practice in relation to the acquisition of counselling skills were investigated using a mixed‐method design. It took time for students to internalise principles of deliberate practice. They reported a wide range of deliberate practice learning activities, both within and beyond the classroom, and regarded these tasks as having made a significant positive contribution to their learning. The findings of the study underscore the value of viewing deliberate practice as an approach to learning that can be articulated in multiple ways. It is important for future research to identify the forms of deliberate practice that are most relevant to enhancing competence within the specific context of therapeutic work.
Construction of a CRISPR‐Biolayer Interferometry Platform for Real‐Time, Sensitive, and Specific DNA Detection
Authors: Qiao Shan‐Peng , Liu Zhen‐Ni , Li Hai‐Chao , He Xin , Pan Hong , Gao Yu‐Zhou
Published: March 2021

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technology has been widely applied for nucleic acid detection because of its high specificity. By using the highly specific and irreversible bond between HaloTag and its alkane chlorine ligand, we modified dCas9 (deactivated CRISPR/Cas9) with biotin as a biosensor to detect nucleic acids. The CRISPR biosensor was facilely prepared to adequately maintain its DNA‐recognition capability. Furthermore, by coupling biolayer interferometry (BLI) with the CRISPR biosensor, a real‐time, sensitive, and rapid digital system called CRISPR‐BLI was established for the detection of double‐stranded DNA. The CRISPR biosensor immobilised on the biolayer could recruit the target DNA onto the biosensor surface and change its optical thickness, resulting in a shift in the interference pattern and responding signal of the BLI. The CRISPR‐BLI system was further applied to detect the ALP gene of Escherichia coli DH5α combined with a polymerase chain reaction, which demonstrated a linear range from 20 to 20 000 pg and a low detection limit (1.34 pg). The CRISPR‐BLI system is a promising approach for rapid and sensitive detection of target DNA analytes.
Explosionsschutz in der Prozesstechnik
Authors: Hansjürgen Dirk
Published: March 2021

Ob Umwelt‐ und Baustoffindustrie, Chemie‐ und Pharmaindustrie, Kosmetik‐ oder Lebensmittelherstellung. In nahezu allen Industriebereichen werden Schüttgüter gemischt. Dabei kommen Mischer auch in explosionsgefährdeten Bereichen zum Einsatz. Ein präventive
Umbau mit Punktlandung
Authors: Landgraf Evelyn
Published: March 2021

Die Corona‐Pandemie hat im Jahr 2020 einiges durcheinandergewirbelt. BASF Schwarzheide hatte für den Frühsommer ein äußerst umfangreiches Neubau‐Umbau‐Rückbauprojekt eines Anlagenteils geplant. Tatsächlich wurde das Projekt im geplanten Zeitrahmen umgeset
Efficient Synthesis of Cyclic Carbonates from Unsaturated Acids and Carbon Dioxide and their Application in the Synthesis of Biobased Polyurethanes
Authors: Martínez Javier , de la Cruz‐Martínez Felipe , Martínez de Sarasa Buchaca Marc , Fernández‐Baeza Juan , Sánchez‐Barba Luis F. , North Michael , Castro‐Osma José A. , Lara‐Sánchez Agustín
Published: March 2021

Bio‐derived furan‐ and diacid‐derived cyclic carbonates have been synthesized in high yields from terminal epoxides and CO2. Furthermore, four highly substituted terpene‐derived cyclic carbonates were isolated in good yields with excellent diastereoselectivity in some cases. Eleven new cyclic carbonates derived from 10‐undecenoic acid under mild reaction conditions were prepared, providing the corresponding carbonate products in excellent yields. The catalyst system also performed the conversion of an epoxidized fatty acid n‐pentyl ester into a cyclic carbonate under relatively mild reaction conditions (80 °C, 20 bar, 24 h). This bis(cyclic carbonate) was obtained in high yields and with different cis/trans ratios depending on the co‐catalyst used. An allyl alcohol by‐product was only observed as a minor product when bis(triphenylphosphine)iminium chloride was used as co‐catalyst. Finally, two cyclic carbonates were used as building blocks for the preparation of non‐isocyanate poly(hydroxy)urethanes by reaction with 1,4‐diaminobutane.
Androgenetic alopecia: Update on etiology
Authors: Dhurat Rachita S. , Daruwalla Sanober B.
Published: March 2021

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss in men and women. Although female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and male AGA share a final common pathway that causes follicular regression but current knowledge suggests that the etiology is not necessarily the same in both sexes. There are many known and unknown factors that govern the development of AGA. We aim to review recent advances in the pathophysiology and molecular mechanism of pattern hair loss in males, females, and children.
Intense pulsed light: Where we are now?
Authors: Bitter Patrick
Published: March 2021

From the introduction of pulsed light broad‐spectrum energy in 1995, intense pulsed light (IPL) has evolved to become an extremely popular and well‐accepted technology for rejuvenation of photodamaged skin in dermatology and plastic surgery practices as well as medical spas. This paper details where IPL is now, 25 years later, and discusses the wide variety of valuable uses for IPL in medical practices as well as the reasons for IPL's growth in popularity and usefulness.
Risk factors in preadolescent boys and girls for the development of eating pathology in young adulthood
Authors: van Eeden Annelies E. , Oldehinkel Albertine J. , van Hoeken Daphne , Hoek Hans W.
Published: March 2021

Objective

Despite a growing literature on potential risk factors for eating disorders, longitudinal research starting before adolescence is scarce, and little is known about risk factors in males. We investigated risk factors in preadolescent boys and girls for the development of eating pathology in adolescence and young adulthood.

Method

This study is part of TRAILS (TRacking Adolescents' Individual Lives Survey), a Dutch population‐based cohort study (N = 2,229) from preadolescence into adulthood. Potential risk factors were measured at age 11, based on self‐report, reports of one of the parents, and records of the Preventive Child Healthcare. Variables included sociodemographic variables, pregnancy and perinatal factors, eating‐ and weight‐related factors, psychological functioning, stressful experiences and family factors. At age 19, two‐stage screening including interviews by eating disorder experts was used to examine the prevalence of eating disorders. At age 22 and 26, eating pathology was assessed by the Eating Disorder Diagnostic Scale.

Results

Preadolescent anxious distress and high weight were associated with eating pathology in adolescence and young adulthood in both boys and girls. Overeating in preadolescence was found to be a prodromal symptom of eating disorders during late adolescence. No evidence was found for sex‐specific risk factors.

Discussion

Anxious preadolescents with high weight are at increased risk for the development of eating pathology later on. Clinicians should be aware of eating disorder symptoms — like overeating — in this high‐risk group of children, and could consider an early intervention to prevent the development of full‐blown eating disorders.
Estimating carrying capacity for juvenile salmon using quantile random forest models
Authors: See Kevin E. , Ackerman Michael W. , Carmichael Richard A. , Hoffmann Sarah L. , Beasley Chris
Published: March 2021

Establishing robust methods and metrics to evaluate habitat quality is critical for the recovery of endangered Pacific salmonids (Oncorhynchus spp.). A variety of modeling approaches are used for status and trend monitoring of anadromous species throughout the Pacific Northwest, USA, but current methods may fail to capture the complex relationship between fish and habitat and are often limited in predictive power beyond specific watersheds. Further, the focus on species distribution and abundance is not easily manipulated to predict carrying capacity and traditional stock‐recruitment analyses are reliant on long‐term data which are not always available. In this study, we developed a quantile random forest model to provide estimates of habitat carrying capacity for Chinook salmon (O. tshawytscha) parr during the summer months, at both the site and watershed scale. Quantile random forest models allow for the consideration of noisy data, correlated variables, and non‐linear relationships: common features in fish–habitat datasets. We leveraged Columbia Habitat Monitoring Program data to select habitat co‐variates and predict capacity at those sites. We also identified a set of globally available attributes to extrapolate capacity estimate predictions throughout wadeable streams within the Columbia River basin. Total capacity estimates for watersheds closely matched estimates from alternative fish productivity models. Carrying capacity estimates based on quantile random forest models, like those presented here, provide managers a framework to guide the identification, prioritization, and development of habitat rehabilitation actions to recover salmon populations.
Predicting impacts of food competition, climate, and disturbance on a long‐distance migratory herbivore
Authors: Stillman R. A. , Rivers E. M. , Gilkerson W. , Wood K. A. , Nolet B. A. , Clausen P. , Wilson H. M. , Ward D. H.
Published: March 2021

Climate change is driving worldwide shifts in the distribution of biodiversity, and fundamental changes to global avian migrations. Some arctic‐nesting species may shorten their migration distance as warmer temperatures allow them to winter closer to their high‐latitude breeding grounds. However, such decisions are not without risks, since this intensifies pressure on resources when they are used for greater periods of time. In this study, we used an individual‐based model to predict how future changes in food abundance, winter ice coverage, and human disturbance could impact an Arctic/sub‐Arctic breeding goose species, black brant (Branta bernicla nigricans, Lawrence 1846), and their primary food source, common eelgrass (Zostera marina L.), at the Izembek Lagoon complex in southwest Alaska. Brant use the site during fall and spring migrations, and increasingly, for the duration of winter. The model was validated by comparing predictions to empirical observations of proportion of geese surviving, proportion of geese emigrating, mean duration of stay, mean rate of mass gain/loss, percentage of time spent feeding, number of bird days, peak population numbers, and distribution across the complex. The model predicted that reductions >50% of the current decadal (2007–2015) mean of eelgrass biomass, which have been observed in some years, or increases in the number of brant, could lead to a reduction in the proportion of birds that successfully migrate to their breeding grounds from the site. The model also predicted that access to eelgrass in lagoons other than Izembek was critical for overwinter survival and spring migration of brant, if overall eelgrass biomass was 50% of the decadal mean biomass. Geese were typically predicted to be more vulnerable to environmental change during winter and spring, when eelgrass biomass is lower, and thermoregulatory costs for the geese are higher than in fall. We discuss the consequences of these predictions for goose population trends in the face of natural and human drivers of change.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Ozanimod, the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient of a New Drug for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Cianferotti Claudio , Barreca Giuseppe , Bollabathini Venkatesh , Carcone Luca , Grainger Damian , Staniland Samantha , Taddei Maurizio
Published: March 2021

We report here a short enantioselective synthesis of Ozanimod, a potent modulator of the enzyme Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptor (S1PR), recently approved by FDA and EMA for the treatment of relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis. Amongst different synthetic approaches explored, we achieved the best result introducing the stereogenic centre in the last step through imine asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) using Wills’ catalysts. Besides the reduced numbers of enantiomeric purity controls required, this process culminates in an exceptionally high enantioselective reductive amination obtained with commercially available tethered Ru catalysts. Starting from commercially available 4‐cyano‐indanone, enantiomerically pure Ozanimod was obtained in 5 steps in 62 % overall yield and 99 % ee.
Synthesis of Diarylmethanes Bearing CF3‐ and CN‐Substituted All‐carbon Quaternary Centers and Diarylmalononitriles through Cyanation of δ‐Disubstituted Para‐Quinone Methides
Authors: Pan Xiaoguang , Cao Min , Li Song , Wang Hengshan , Liu Xigong , Liu Lei
Published: March 2021

An effective construction of diarylmethanes containing CF3‐ and CN‐substituted all‐carbon quaternary stereocenters via cyanation of δ‐CF3‐δ‐aryl disubstituted para‐quinone methides has been described. The reaction proceeds smoothly under simple and mild conditions and exhibits a broad scope of δ‐CF3‐δ‐aryl disubstituted para‐quinone methides in high efficiency. δ‐CF3‐δ‐alkynyl‐disubstituted para‐quinone methides also proved to be suitable substrates. The rich chemistry of the cyano moiety allows for rapid access to other valuable CF3‐substituted di‐ and triarylmethanes containing all‐carbon quaternary centers that are otherwise difficult to synthesize. The generality of the method was further demonstrated by cyanation of δ‐CN‐substituted para‐quinone methides furnishing diarylmalononitriles in good yields.
Diagnostic accuracy of brief cognitive screening tools to diagnose vascular cognitive impairment in Peru
Authors: Custodio Nilton , Montesinos Rosa , Alva‐Diaz Carlos , Pacheco‐Barrios Kevin , Rodriguez‐Calienes Aaron , Herrera‐Pérez Eder , Becerra‐Becerra Yahaira , Castro‐Suárez Sheila , Pintado‐Caipa Maritza , Cruz del Castillo Rossana , Cuenca José , Lira David
Published: March 2021

Introduction

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of three brief cognitive screening (BCS) tools, Peruvian version of Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (ACE‐Pe), of INECO Frontal Screening (IFS‐Pe) and of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE‐Pe), for the diagnosis of vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) and its non‐dementia stages (VCI‐ND) and vascular dementia (VD) in patients with cerebral stroke in Lima—Peru.

Materials and methods

A cohort analysis to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of three BCS for VCI.

Results

Two hundred and four patients were evaluated: 61% Non‐VCI, 30% VCI‐ND and 9% VD. To discriminate patients with VCI from controls, the area under the curve (AUC) of ACE‐Pe, IFS‐Pe and MMs‐Pe were 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98–0.99), 0.99 (95%CI 0.98–0.99) and 0.87 (95%CI 0.82–0.92), respectively. Of the three BCS, the IFS‐Pe presented a larger AUC to discriminate VCI‐ND from VD (AUC = 0.98 [95%CI 0.95–1]) compared to ACE‐Pe (AUC = 0.84 [95%CI 0.74–0.95]) and MMSE‐Pe (0.92 [95%CI 0.86–0.99]). The IFS‐Pe presented a higher sensitivity (S), specificity (Sp), and positive (+LR) and negative likelihood ratios (−LR) (S = 96.72%, Sp = 89.47%, +LR = 9.1 and −LR = 0.03) than ACE‐Pe (S = 96.72%, Sp = 63.16%, +LR = 2.62 and −LR = 0.05) and MMSE‐Pe (S = 90.16%, Sp = 78.95%, +LR = 4.28 and −LR = 0.12). In the multiple regression analysis, the IFS‐Pe was not affected by age, sex or years of schooling.

Conclusion

The IFS‐Pe has the best diagnostic accuracy for detecting VCI and discriminating between pre‐dementia (VCI‐ND) and dementia (VD) stages.
Orienting Our Ears to Community: Examining Adult‐Produced Field Recordings of a Living‐Learning Community
Authors: Brownell Cassie J. , Sheridan David M.
Published: March 2021

Authors featured in this department share anthropological perspectives and qualitative insights to redefine community in adolescent and adult literacy practice.
Students and Teachers Inquiring Together: Ethnic Studies in the English Classroom
Authors: Timmons‐Long LaMar
Published: March 2021

Young people in literacy classes sometimes think their teachers are not listening to them. The practitioners featured in this column listen to questions posed by their students and respond to them, with the goal of enhancing English language arts instruction for a range of young people and educators.
Acetyl‐CoA synthases are essential for maintaining histone acetylation under metabolic stress during zygotic genome activation in pigs
Authors: Zhou Wenjun , Nie Zheng‐Wen , Zhou Dong‐Jie , Cui Xiang‐Shun
Published: March 2021

ACSS1/2 converts acetate into acetyl‐coenzyme A, which contributes to histone acetylation in the mitochondria and cytoplasm. Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) is critical for embryo development involving drastic histone modification. An efficient crRNAs‐Cas13a targeting strategy was employed to investigate the ACSS1/2 function during ZGA. The results showed that nuclear accumulation of ACSS1 and ACSS2 occurs during ZGA. Knockdown of ACSS1/2 did not affect blastocyst formation when using a normal medium. On culturing embryos in a medium with acetate and no pyruvate (−P + Ace), knockdown of ACSS1 did not affect histone acetylation levels but significantly reduced ATP levels, whereas knockdown of ACSS2 significantly reduced histone acetylation levels in porcine embryos. Inhibition of fatty acid beta‐oxidation by etomoxir significantly reduced ATP levels, which could be restored by acetate. The histone acetylation levels in the ACSS1 and ACSS2 knockdown groups both decreased considerably after etomoxir treatment. Moreover, acetate showed dose‐dependent effects on SIRT1 and SIRT3 levels when under metabolic stress. The C‐terminus of ACSS1 regulated the nuclear translocation. In conclusion, ACSS1/2 helps to maintain ATP and histone acetylation levels in porcine early embryos under metabolic stress during ZGA.
Assessing price sensitivity in dental education and implications on student diversity
Authors: Brent Erin M.
Published: March 2021

Increasingly, the price of professional school is seen as a potential deterrent for interested students. Data collected by the American Dental Association (ADA) from the 66 U.S. dental schools showed the average 4‐year nonresident tuition and fees totaled $321,575 in 2018–2019, 35% greater than in 2008–2009, after adjusting for inflation. The aim of this study was to assess whether dental education pricing has impacted applications, enrollments, and yield rates, particularly among students underrepresented in dentistry. Utilizing 7 years of ADA data across all 66 U.S. dental schools, OLS regression, fixed effects, and random effects models were used to examine the data in both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses. OLS regression results show higher priced schools have higher rates of applications, admittances, and enrollment but lower yield rates. The inverse relationship between yield and tuition prices suggests, on average, students are sensitive to price when deciding whether to accept a spot at dental schools. Focusing on students underrepresented in dentistry, the results indicate that African American and Hispanic or Latino students are price sensitive: fewer of these students enroll in higher priced dental schools, and the relationship persists over time. In other words, fewer African American and Hispanic or Latino students enroll in U.S. dental schools as tuition increases over time. The salary potential is high for dental graduates, but social and cultural capital are significant factors in making students aware of a dental career. These findings suggest the breadth and scope of pipeline programs need to be enhanced to reach these potential students.
Soil aggregation and aggregate‐associated organic carbon concentrations for the perennial energy crop cup plant in comparison to maize
Authors: Grunwald Dennis , Panten Kerstin , Schittenhelm Siegfried
Published: March 2021

The objectives of this study were to analyze soil aggregation and associated soil organic carbon (SOC) under cup plant and maize in a field trial (sandy loam) and two farmers' fields (both silty loams) during the 2018 growing period. On the sandy loam, aggregation under the two crops did not differ despite higher bulk SOC under cup plant. At the silty loam sites, cup plant exhibited a 64% higher aggregate mean weight diameter than maize in spring and higher aggregate‐associated SOC in autumn.
Determination of enantiomeric impurity of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate on a cellulose tris(3,5‐dichlorophenyl‐carbamate) chiral stationary phase and the characterization of its related substances
Authors: Nguyen Bao‐Tan , Le Thi‐Anh‐Tuyet , Mai Xuan‐Lan , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Van , Phan Thanh Dung , Kang Jong‐Seong , Kim Kyeong Ho
Published: March 2021

A simple and reliable high‐performance liquid chromatography method was developed to determine the enantiomeric impurity of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, an orally bioavailable prodrug of tenofovir, commonly used for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B. Tenofovir disoproxil and its enantiomer, were completely separated on a Chiralpak IC column (3 μm, 100 × 4.6 mm, i.d.). The chiral separation was achieved using a mobile phase containing n‐hexane, ethanol, methanol, and triethylamine 65/25/10/0.1 (v/v/v/v) at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. Ideally, the reversal of enantiomer elution order was achieved on the Chiralpak IC column, to allow the elution of the minor enantiomeric impurity before the major component. Moreover, the proposed method was able to discriminate the active ingredient from the related substances available in the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate raw materials. These compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated by MS and nuclear magnetic resonance. Based on the spectral data, the structures of related substances were confirmed as tenofovir isoproxil monoester and fumaric acid. The high‐performance liquid chromatography method was optimized by the design of experiment approach and successfully validated following the International Conference on Harmonization guideline. Proposed method was effectively applied for the quantification of enantiomeric impurity in tenofovir disoproxil fumarate raw materials.
Dependence of the mechanical properties and microstructure of ultralight magnesium‐lithium‐aluminum alloy on heat treatment conditions
Authors: Mineta T. , Kumatani K. , Adachi H. , Sato H.
Published: March 2021

Although magnesium‐lithium‐based alloys demonstrate superior workability and lower densities than conventional magnesium alloys, their mechanical properties require improvement. In this study, the effect of heat treatment conditions on the mechanical properties and microstructure of magnesium‐lithium‐aluminum alloys was investigated. Tensile tests were conducted on the alloys, and the results showed that the yield stress, ultimate tensile strength, and total elongation were significantly dependent on the heat treatment conditions. The relationship between the yield stress and grain size was not governed by the Hall‐Petch relationship. The activation volume of various heat‐treated samples estimated from the strain rate jump test was smaller for higher yield stress. Wide‐angle x‐ray scattering indicated that the second phase with a Bragg spacing of 1.7 nm was generated after heat treatment. It is found that the state of the second phase periodic structure affects the mechanical properties of the magnesium‐lithium‐aluminum alloy.
Impact of radar data assimilation on a squall line over the Yangtze–Huaihe River Basin with a radar reflectivity operator accounting for ice‐phase hydrometeors
Authors: Shen Feifei , Xu Dongmei , Li Hong , Liu Ruixia
Published: March 2021

A radar reflectivity observation operator with ice‐phase hydrometeors was employed for the assimilation of the real radar observations of a squall line on June 14, 2009, over Anhui and Jiangsu provinces in China. The three‐dimensional variational (3DVAR) data‐assimilation system along with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model was applied. The impact of assimilating radar radial velocity and reflectivity is investigated by analysing the meteorological conditions for different stages of the squall line. The results show that the radar data‐assimilation experiments adjust and improve the initial fields to some extent for the squall line with the cycling data‐assimilation strategy. The analysed and predicted radar composite reflectivity is significantly improved with the use of the ice‐phase hydrometeors observation operator. The improvements are illustrated in terms of the wind fields for both the surface and upper level, the radar reflectivity, the surface perturbation potential temperature and the surface perturbation pressure. In addition, the forecast skills of the precipitation are improved noticeably for both the location and the intensity after using the ice‐phase hydrometeors radar observation operator.
Green synthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoate polymer by Bacillus iocasae
Authors: Ammar EM , El‐Sheshtawy Huda S , El‐Shatoury EH , Amer Shaimaa K
Published: March 2021

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are bio‐polyesters synthesized by various microbial species as a potential replacement for conventional fossil‐fuel‐based plastic. The aim of the present work was to produce PHAs by a bacterial isolate recovered from activated sewage sludge. The bacterial isolate was identified using 16S rRNA as Bacillus iocasae MMAS4. A Plackett–Burman (PB) design was used to estimate the PHA percentage content using the bacterial strain per 100 mL modified Luria–Bertani broth medium. Factors evidencing P values of less than 0.05 were considered to have significant effects on the PHA percentage. The production of PHAs was improved by adding stress factors such as ethanol, H2O2 and a 1:1 mixture of both into the culture medium. B. iocasae is considered a novel PHA producer yielding 1.5 g L−1 PHAs. The produced PHAs were extracted and characterized. The functional groups of the extracted PHA granules were characterized as P(3HB‐co‐3‐HV) copolyester (poly‐3‐hydroxybutyrate‐poly‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H NMR analyses. The results indicated the possible use of B. iocasae for the production of PHAs on media containing molasses, an inexpensive substrate as an alternative to the conventionally chemically synthesized polymers. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Amphiphilic AxBy mikto‐arm star copolymers with PLMA and POEGMA arms: Self‐assembly and drug encapsulation
Authors: Vlassi Eleni , Papagiannopoulos Aristeidis , Pispas Stergios
Published: March 2021

We report on the synthesis and self‐assembly of amphiphilic mikto‐arm star copolymers of the AxBy type with mixed arms of poly(lauryl methacrylate) and poly(oligo ethylene glycol methacrylate). Two star copolymers with different hydrophobic‐to‐hydrophilic ratios are prepared in order to study their self‐assembly in aqueous media. Both stars organize in structures with dimensions in the nanoscale. The star with the lower hydrophobic content forms aggregates of lower size and molar mass and it has a higher critical aggregation concentration. The synthesized mikto‐arm stars are able to encapsulate curcumin (CUR) and preserve its fluorescence properties while their self‐organization is affected by the incorporation of the hydrophobic drug compound. Interestingly, the more hydrophilic star is more strongly affected by the presence of CUR in terms of aggregate size and mass. In phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and fetal bovine serum‐PBS solutions the star with higher hydrophobic content appears to better preserve its monomodal size distribution in comparison to the star with lower hydrophobic content either with or without encapsulated CUR. This work opens possibilities for using the new star copolymers in the solubilization of hydrophobic compounds and the delivery of hydrophobic drugs for pharmaceutical and bioimaging applications.
Influence of Solvent on Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Efficiency: What is so Special About Acetonitrile?
Authors: Fang Hui , Ma Jianqiang , Wilhelm Michael J. , DeLacy Brendan G. , Dai Hai‐Lung
Published: March 2021

The selection of solvent for preparing a working electrode (and to act as the electrolyte) is known to influence the efficiency of dye‐sensitized solar cells. In this topical review, results taken from a systematic study are presented from the authors’ own lab examining how protic and aprotic solvents, as well as solvent polarity, affect adsorption of carboxylic dyes on the titanium dioxide nanoparticle surface and electron injection from the dye to the semiconductor. Adsorption of dye molecules on nanoparticle surfaces is measured through second harmonic light scattering and electron injection through ultrafast transient mid‐infrared absorption. It is revealed that protic solvents do not allow direct adsorption of the dye onto the semiconductor surface, due to hydrogen bonding with the dye and competitive binding to the semiconductor surface. Aprotic solvents, on the other hand, support solvation of the dye molecules but also facilitate dye adsorption on the semiconductor nanoparticle. Among aprotic solvents, it is found that solvents with higher polarity result in larger adsorption free energy for the dye and faster electron injection. Overall, these studies reveal that aprotic solvents with high solvent polarity (such as acetonitrile) yield more efficient solar cell devices.
Polyvinyl Alcohol Enhanced Fluorescent Sulfur Quantum Dots for Highly Sensitive Detection of Fe3+ and Temperature in Cells
Authors: Lei Jiehao , Huang Zeming , Gao Pengxiang , Sun Jiahui , Zhou Li
Published: March 2021

As a new class of metal‐free fluorescent dots, sulfur quantum dots (SQDs) have attracted more and more attention because of their unique properties and promising applications in many fields. However, synthesizing SQDs with high optical stability and stimuli‐responsive fluorescence is still in its infancy. Herein, a simple one‐pot strategy is reported for preparing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐capped SQDs from cheap elemental sulfur by employing PVA as ligand. The as‐prepared SQDs with size in range of 1.5–5 nm show fine water dispersibility and stability, bright fluorescence, good optical stability, and low cytotoxicity, which make them potential for cell imaging. In addition, the SQDs show sensitive and selective fluorescence quenching behavior toward Fe3+ with a detection limit of 92 × 10−9 m. Meanwhile, the SQDs also present temperature‐dependent fluorescence and hold promise for working as a nanothermometer. For the first time, the utilization of SQDs for monitoring of Fe3+ and temperature in the interior of cells is confirmed in this study. This work thus opens new opportunities for expanding the application fields of SQDs.
Snowball‐like appearance on radial endobronchial ultrasonography in a patient with invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kawaguchi Takeshi , Himeji Daisuke , Beppu Kiichio , Marutsuka Kousuke
Published: March 2021

Invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma (IMA), which is a relatively rare lung adenocarcinoma, is considered a high‐grade subtype and is associated with a poor prognosis. IMA is difficult to diagnose by computed tomography because it requires differentiation from inflammatory diseases, such as atelectasis, infectious pneumonia, and organizing pneumonia. Thus far, no reports of radial endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS) findings in IMA have been published. This article presents a case of IMA with a characteristic shadow, snowball‐like appearance on radial EBUS in a 67‐year‐old Japanese man.
Development of Facile and Versatile Platinum Drug Delivering Silicasome Nanocarriers for Efficient Pancreatic Cancer Chemo‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Xiangsheng , Jiang Jinhong , Chang Chong Hyun , Liao Yu‐Pei , Lodico Jared J. , Tang Ivanna , Zheng Emily , Qiu Waveley , Lin Matthew , Wang Xiang , Ji Ying , Mei Kuo‐Ching , Nel Andre E. , Meng Huan
Published: March 2021

In this study a mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSNP) based platform is developed for high‐dose loading of a range of activated platinum (Pt) chemo agents that can be attached to the porous interior through the use of electrostatic and coordination chemistry under weak‐basic pH conditions. In addition to the design feature for improving drug delivery, the MSNP can also be encapsulated in a coated lipid bilayer (silicasome), to improve the colloidal stability after intravenous (IV) injection. Improved pharmacokinetics and intratumor delivery of encapsulated activated oxaliplatin (1,2‐diamminocyclohexane platinum(II) (DACHPt)) over free drug in an orthotopic Kras‐derived pancreatic cancer (PDAC) model is demonstrated. Not only does IV injection of the DACHPt silicasome provide more efficacious cytotoxic tumor cell killing, but can also demonstrate that chemotherapy‐induced cell death is accompanied by the features of immunogenic cell death (ICD) as well as a dramatic reduction in bone marrow toxicity. The added ICD features are reflected by calreticulin and high‐mobility group box 1 expression, along with increased CD8+/FoxP3+ T‐cell ratios and evidence of perforin and granzyme B release at the tumor site. Subsequent performance of a survival experiment, demonstrates that the DACHPt silicasome generates a significant improvement in survival outcome, which can be extended by delayed administration of the anti‐PD‐1 antibody.
Nanocarbon for Energy Material Applications: N2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Centi Gabriele , Perathoner Siglinda
Published: March 2021

Nanocarbons are an important class of energy materials and one relevant application is for the nitrogen reduction reaction, i.e., the direct synthesis of NH3 from N2 and H2O via photo‐ and electrocatalytic approaches. Ammonia is also a valuable energy or hydrogen vector. This perspective paper analyses developments in the field, limiting discussion to nanocarbon‐based electrodes. These aspects are discussed: i) active sites related to charge density differences on C atoms associated to defects/strains, ii) doping with heteroatoms, iii) introduction of isolated metal ions, iv) creation and in situ dynamics of metal oxide(hydroxide)/nanocarbon boundaries, and v) nanocarbon characteristics to control the interface. Discussion is focused on the performances and mechanistic aspects. Aim is not a systematic state‐of‐the‐art report but to highlight the need to use a different perspective in studying this challenging reaction by using selected papers. Notwithstanding the large differences in the proposed nature of the active sites, fall all within a restricted range of performances, far from the targets. A holistic approach is emphasized to make a breakthrough advance.
A Dynamic, Supramolecular View on the Multivalent Interaction between Influenza Virus and Host Cell
Authors: Overeem Nico J. , van der Vries Erhard , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: March 2021

Understanding how influenza viruses traverse the mucus and recognize host cells is critical for evaluating their zoonotic potential, and for prevention and treatment of the disease. The surface of the influenza A virus is covered with the receptor‐binding protein hemagglutinin and the receptor‐cleaving enzyme neuraminidase, which jointly control the interactions between the virus and the host cell. These proteins are organized in closely spaced trimers and tetramers to facilitate multivalent interactions with sialic acid‐terminated glycans. This review shows that the individually weak multivalent interactions of influenza viruses allow superselective binding, virus‐induced recruitment of receptors, and the formation of dynamic complexes that facilitate molecular walking. Techniques to measure the avidity and receptor specificity of influenza viruses are reviewed, and the pivotal role of multivalent interactions with their emergent properties in crossing the mucus and entering host cells is discussed. A model is proposed for the initiation of cell entry through virus‐induced receptor clustering. The multivalent interactions of influenza viruses are maintained in a dynamic regime by a functional balance between binding and cleaving.