bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase‐Controllable Synthesis of Multifunctional 1T‐MoSe2 Nanostructures: Applications in Lithium‐Ion Batteries, Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution, and the Hydrogenation Reaction
Authors: Ling Min , Jiang Binbin , Cao Xi , Wu Tao , Cheng Yuansheng , Zeng Peiyuan , Zhang Liang , Cheong Weng‐Chon Max , Wu Konglin , Huang Aijian , Wei Xianwen
Published: October 2021

As an important regulatory method, the phase engineering strategy is widely used to develop functional materials with desired properties. Herein, we combine a solvothermal method with post‐annealing treatment to controllably synthesize multifunctional MoSe2 flower‐like nanostructures (FNSs) in different crystal phases. Based on the different phases of MoSe2 FNSs, we systematically investigate their performance in lithium‐ion storage, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and the hydrogenation of nitrophenol. The results show that 1T‐MoSe2 FNSs possess superior performance in lithium‐ion batteries, HER, and hydrogenation of PNP compared with 2H‐MoSe2 FNSs. Moreover, density functional theory calculations reveal that 1T‐MoSe2 FNSs exhibits a higher chemisorption energy than that of 2H‐MoSe2 FNSs, which is beneficial for the improvement of the lithium‐ion storage capacity. This work provides an effective way to develop functional materials based on phase engineering.
Multi‐Enzyme‐Modified Bioanode Utilising Starch as a Fuel
Authors: Toda Rurika , Tatara Ryoichi , Horiba Tatsuo , Komaba Shinichi
Published: October 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is an invited contribution from the Shinichi Komaba group at the Tokyo University of Science. The cover picture shows a cascading reaction occurring at the multi‐enzyme‐modified bioanode, decomposing starch molecules to glucose, followed by glucose oxidation. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202100843.
A Novel Route for the Easy Production of Thermochromic VO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Santos Antonio J. , Escanciano Marta , Suárez‐Llorens Alfonso , Pilar Yeste M. , Morales Francisco M.
Published: October 2021

In this work, a simple, fast and dry method for the fabrication of a thermochromic product with a high load of VO2(M1) consisting of the controlled heat treatment of pure vanadium nanoparticles in air is presented. After a complete design of experiments, it is concluded that the most direct way to attain the maximum transformation of V into VO2(M1) consists of one cycle with a fast heating ramp of 42 °C s−1, followed by keeping 700 °C for 530–600 seconds, and a subsequent cooling at 0.05 °C s−1. Careful examination of these results lead to a second optimum, even more suitable for industrial production (quicker and less energy‐intensive because of its lower temperatures and shorter times), consisting of subjecting V to two consecutive cycles of temperatures and times (625 °C for 5 minutes) with similar preheating (42 °C s−1) but a much faster postcooling (∼ 8 °C s−1). These green reactions only use the power for heating a tube open to atmosphere and a vanadium precursor; without assistance of reactive gases or catalysts, and no special vacuum or pressure requirements. The best products present similar thermochromic properties but higher thermal stability than commercial VO2 particles. These methods can be combined with VO2 doping.
N‐Amino‐1,8‐Naphthalimide is a Regenerated Protecting Group for Selective Synthesis of Mono‐N‐Substituted Hydrazines and Hydrazides
Authors: Manoj Kumar Mesram , Venkataramana Parikibanda , Yadagiri Swamy Parikibanda , Chityala Yadaiah
Published: October 2021

A new route to synthesis of various mono‐N‐substituted hydrazines and hydrazides by involving in a new C−N bond formation by usingN‐amino‐1,8‐naphthalimide as a regenerated precursor was invented. Aniline and phenylhydrazines are reproduced upon reacting these individually with 1,8‐naphthalic anhydride followed by hydrazinolysis. The practicality and simplicity of this C−N dihalo alkanes; developed a synthon for bond formation protocol was exemplified to various hydrazines and hydrazides.N‐amino‐1,8‐naphthalimide is suitable synthon for transformation for selective formation of mono‐substituted hydrazine and hydrazide derivatives. Those are selective mono‐amidation of hydrazine with acid halides; mono‐N‐substituted hydrazones from aldehydes; synthesis of N‐aminoazacycloalkanes from acetohydrazide scaffold and inserted to hydroxy derivatives; distinct synthesis ofN,N‐dibenzylhydrazines andN‐benzylhydrazines from benzyl halides; synthesis ofN‐amino‐amino acids from α‐halo esters. Ecofriendly reagentN‐amino‐1,8‐naphthalimide was regenerated with good yields by the hydrazinolysis in all procedures.
Prenatal PM2.5 affects atopic dermatitis depending on maternal anxiety and gender: COCOA study
Authors: Kim Sangrok , Yang Song‐I , Lim Hyeyeun , Lee So‐Yeon , Park Min Jee , Song Kun‐Baek , Choi Eom Ji , Oh Hea Young , Kim Hwan‐Cheol , Shin Yee‐Jin , Lee Kyung‐Sook , Choi Kil Yong , Suh Dong In , Shin Youn Ho , Kim Kyung Won , Ahn Kangmo , Hong Soo‐Jong
Published: October 2021

Background

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) is increasing worldwide. Prenatal particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and maternal anxiety during pregnancy has been suggested as a potential causes of AD. This study investigated the effects of prenatal PM2.5 and maternal anxiety on AD and identified the critical period of PM2.5 exposure for AD in infants.

Methods

This study included 802 children from the COCOA birth cohort study with follow‐up data at 1 year of age. PM2.5 was estimated by land‐use regression models and prenatal anxiety was measured with a questionnaire. AD was diagnosed by doctor at 1 year of age. Logistic regression analysis and Bayesian distributed lag interaction models were applied.

Results

Higher PM2.5 during the first trimester of pregnancy, higher prenatal maternal anxiety, and male gender were associated with AD at 1 year of age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.86 [1.08–3.19], 1.58 [1.01–2.47], and 1.54 [1.01–2.36], respectively). Higher PM2.5 during the first trimester and higher maternal anxiety during pregnancy showed an additive effect on the risk of AD (aOR: 3.13; 95% CI: 1.56–6.28). Among boys exposed to higher maternal anxiety during pregnancy, gestational weeks 5–8 were the critical period of PM2.5 exposure for the development of AD.

Conclusions

Higher PM2.5 exposure during gestational weeks 5–8 increased the probability of AD in infancy, especially in boys with higher maternal anxiety. Avoiding PM2.5 exposure and maternal anxiety from the first trimester may prevent infant AD.
Lymph node FNA cytology: Diagnostic performance and clinical implications of proposed diagnostic categories
Authors: Makarenko Vladislav V. , DeLelys Michelle E. , Hasserjian Robert P. , Ly Amy
Published: October 2021

Background

Despite widespread clinical use, lymph node fine‐needle aspiration cytology (LN‐FNAC) lacks universal acceptance for definitively diagnosing lymphomas. This is likely due to reports of lower diagnostic performance, inconsistent terminology use in cytopathology diagnostic reports, and only limited data on the clinical implications of LN‐FNAC diagnoses. Recently, a uniform LN‐FNAC cytopathological diagnostic reporting system was proposed (the Sydney System). This study evaluated LN‐FNAC diagnostic performance and risks of malignancy associated with the proposed diagnostic categories.

Methods

LN‐FNAC specimens obtained in 2018‐2019, with and without concurrent core biopsy, to evaluate for suspected lymphoma were analyzed (n = 349). LN‐FNAC diagnoses were compared with final diagnoses obtained via subsequent tissue biopsy and/or clinical assessment.

Results

The mean patient age was 57.6 years, and 41% were female. LN‐FNAC was the initial diagnostic test in 223 (63.9%), and it was used to evaluate for recurrence in 126 (36.1%). LN‐FNAC diagnosed 202 hematological malignancies (57.9%), 23 nonhematological malignancies (6.6%), and 124 reactive processes (35.5%). Subsequent tissue biopsy was performed in 42 (12%). The risks of malignancy per diagnostic category were as follows: inadequate, 58.3%; benign, 6.4%; atypical, 69.2%; suspicious, 96.7%; and malignant, 99.3%. LN‐FNAC demonstrated up to 96.3% sensitivity, 91.91% specificity, and 87.35% accuracy. Optimal specimen quality and the use of intradepartmental consultation reduced diagnostic error rates in FNA cases without concurrent core biopsy (P = .029 and P = .0002 respectively).

Conclusions

LN‐FNAC is accurate and reliable for the diagnosis of lymphoma. Inadequate LN‐FNAC samples should be resampled due to a significant associated risk of lymphoma. The diagnostic performance of LN‐FNAC may be improved with good specimen quality and reviews by multiple pathologists. Understanding the risks of malignancy associated with LN‐FNAC diagnostic categories will help to guide optimal patient management.
Appearance synthesis of fluorescent objects with mutual illumination effects
Authors: Tominaga Shoji , Guarnera Giuseppe Claudio
Published: October 2021

We propose an approach for the appearance synthesis of objects with matte surfaces made of arbitrary fluorescent materials, accounting for mutual illumination. We solve the problem of rendering realistic scene appearances of objects placed close to each other under different conditions of uniform illumination, viewing direction, and shape, relying on standard physically based rendering and knowledge of the three‐dimensional shape and bispectral data of scene objects. The appearance synthesis model suggests that the overall appearance is decomposed into five components, each of which is expanded into a multiplication of spectral functions and shading terms. We show that only two shading terms are required, related to (a) diffuse reflection by direct illumination and (b) interreflection between two matte surfaces. The Mitsuba renderer is used to estimate the reflection components based on the underlying Monte Carlo simulation. The spectral computation of the fluorescent component is performed over a broad wavelength range, including ultraviolet and visible wavelengths. We also address a method for compensating for the difference between the simulated and real images. Experiments were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed appearance synthesis approach. The accuracy of the proposed approach was experimentally confirmed using objects with different shapes and fluorescence in the presence of complex mutual illumination effects.
duf: Dynamic uncore frequency scaling to reduce power consumption
Authors: André Étienne , Dulong Rémi , Guermouche Amina , Trahay François
Published: October 2021

Reducing the power consumption of applications has become one of the key challenges in high‐performance computing. Recent processor architectures differentiate processor core frequency from its uncore frequency. As a consequence, in addition to tuning processor core frequency with dynamic voltage and frequency scaling, power consumption can also be controlled through uncore frequency scaling. This article studies how the uncore frequency can be used as a leverage to improve power consumption. We propose duf, a daemon process that dynamically adapts the uncore frequency to reduce an application power consumption with a user‐defined limit on performance degradation. The evaluation of duf on three different architectures shows that with no performance degradation (<0.6%), duf can reduce socket power consumption by 7.94%. We also show that duf is able to reduce the total energy consumption by up to 18.20%.
Are the N‐demethylated metabolites of U‐47700 more active than their parent compound? In vitro μ‐opioid receptor activation of N‐desmethyl‐U‐47700 and N,N‐bisdesmethyl‐U‐47700
Authors: Nordmeier Frederike , Cannaert Annelies , Stove Christophe P. , Schmidt Peter H. , Meyer Markus R. , Schaefer Nadine
Published: October 2021

Studies on the tissue distribution of the new synthetic opioid U‐47700 and its main metabolite N‐desmethyl‐U‐47700 revealed about sixfold higher metabolite concentrations in pig brain as compared with the parent compound. To better assess the toxic potential of this drug, the aim of this study was to assess the in vitro μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) activation potential of the main metabolites of U‐47700, N‐desmethyl‐U‐47700, and N,N‐bisdesmethyl‐U‐47700, using a live cell‐based reporter assay based on NanoLuc Binary Technology®. Cells stably expressing human MOR and β‐arrestin 2 (βarr2), each fused via a flexible linker to two complementary inactive subunits of the nanoluciferase, were seeded on poly‐d‐lysine‐coated 96‐well plates and treated with N‐desmethyl‐U‐47700, N,N‐bisdesmethyl‐U‐47700, U‐47700, or hydromorphone as reference standard. MOR activation results in functional complementation of the nanoluciferase, which can be assessed via luminescence monitoring. The potency of the metabolites is lower than that of U‐47700 (EC50 of 186 nM for U‐47700, 3770 nM for N‐desmethyl‐U‐47700, and >5 μM for N,N‐bisdesmethyl‐U‐47700). The maximal efficacy (Emax) observed (relative to hydromorphone, set arbitrarily at 100%) decreased from 183% to 127% and 39.2% for U‐47700, N‐desmethyl‐U‐47700, and N,N‐bisdesmethyl‐U‐47700, respectively. Thus, the loss of one or two methyl groups reduced the MOR activation potential, which was more pronounced if both methyl groups were removed. It is thus anticipated that the impact on MOR exerted by the higher metabolite concentration in brain has only little—if any relevance for the strong toxic effects of U‐47700.
The founder sociality hypothesis
Authors: Brooks James , Yamamoto Shinya
Published: October 2021

In this review, we propose that the social dynamics of founder populations in novel and newly available environments can have critical effects in shaping species' sociality and can produce long‐lasting changes in social structure and behavior. For founder populations which expand into an underexploited niche separated from the parent population, the necessity of bond formation with strangers, lack of clear territories, and initial abundance of resources can lead to altered initial social dynamics to which subsequent generations adapt. We call this the founder sociality hypothesis. After specifying the theoretical reasoning and mechanism of effect, we focus on three particular cases where the social dynamics of founder populations may have a central role in explaining their modern behavioral ecology. In particular, we develop and review evidence for three predictions of the founder sociality hypothesis in territorial, mixed‐sex group forming species: relatively stronger social bonds in the dispersing sex with relatively weaker bonds in the nondispersing sex, reduced territoriality, and increased social tolerance. We briefly touch on the implications for human evolution given our species' evolutionary history marked by frequent expansion and adaptation to novel environments. We conclude by proposing several experiments and models with testable predictions following from the founder sociality hypothesis.
MALT1 protease function in regulatory T cells induces MYC activity to promote mitochondrial function and cellular expansion
Authors: Rosenbaum Marc , Schnalzger Theresa , Engleitner Thomas , Weiß Christin , Mishra Ritu , Mibus Cora , Mitterer Theresa , Rad Roland , Ruland Jürgen
Published: October 2021

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for the inhibition of immunity and the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Signals from the T‐cell antigen receptor (TCR) are critical for early Treg development, their expansion, and inhibitory activity. Although TCR‐engaged activation of the paracaspase MALT1 is important for these Treg activities, the MALT1 effector pathways in Tregs remain ill‐defined. Here, we demonstrate that MALT1 protease activity controls the TCR‐induced upregulation of the transcription factor MYC and the subsequent expression of MYC target genes in Tregs. These mechanisms are important for Treg‐intrinsic mitochondrial function, optimal respiratory capacity, and homeostatic Treg proliferation. Consistently, conditional deletion of Myc in Tregs results similar to MALT1 inactivation in a lethal autoimmune inflammatory syndrome. Together, these results identify a MALT1 protease‐mediated link between TCR signaling in Tregs and MYC control that coordinates metabolism and Treg expansion for the maintenance of immune homeostasis.
C2‐(1 N/2 N‐Methyl‐tetrazole)methyl Ether (MeTetMe) as a Stereodirecting Group for 1,2‐trans‐β‐O‐Glycosylation
Authors: Rahaman Molla Mosidur , Thakur Rima
Published: October 2021

Development of stereoselective synthetic methods for O‐glycosides is of paramount importance in the field of glycochemistry. Therefore, we report herein (1 N/2 N)‐methylated tetrazole methyl (MeTetMe) ethers as a C2‐directing group for the formation of 1,2‐trans‐β‐O‐glycosides. The synthesis of the tetrazole moiety was readily achieved by a 3+2 cycloaddition reaction on nitrile functionality. The tethered thioglycoside donors were found to deliver the β‐O‐glycosides when activated by PIFA‐TfOH reagent system. The reactions were performed with six newly synthesized phenyl and ethyl thioglycosides to obtain the glycosylated adducts in moderate to high yields and excellent to exclusive β‐selectivity. The glycosylation method was easily scalable up to grams without affecting the yield and stereoselectivity. The MeTetMe group was efficiently removed under Birch reduction conditions without affecting the benzyl ethers or isopropylidene acetal protection.
Solvent‐Free Glycosylation from per‐O‐Acylated Donors Catalyzed by Methanesulfonic Acid
Authors: Traboni Serena , Bedini Emiliano , Silipo Alba , Vessella Giulia , Iadonisi Alfonso
Published: October 2021

The huge importance of carbohydrates and their derivatives in biomedical and industrial applications call for the development of streamlined and sustainable procedures for their synthetic elaboration. Here reported a novel glycosylation method based on direct activation of readily available per‐O‐acylated (acetylated or benzoylated) donors, promoted under air by methanesulfonic acid as a cheap and green catalyst in the absence of any solvent. Besides the beneficial avoidance of toxic and polluting organic solvents, these conditions were found critical for activating such poorly reactive donors with a very small catalyst loading (only 5 mol %), instead of stoichiometric Lewis acid promoters typically employed. Desired glycosides were quickly obtained, in most cases with high 1,2‐transstereoselectivity. Other main advantages over reported glycosylations with similar donors are the limited stoichiometric excess of the acceptor (or the donor), the easy applicability and low cost of the procedure and the wide target scope, also covering the synthesis of disaccharides and other non‐trivial glycosides with applicable potential.
Maleimides in Directing‐Group‐Controlled Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Selective C−H Alkylation
Authors: Liu Shuang‐Liang , Shi Yajun , Xue Cong , Zhang Liming , Zhou Liming , Song Mao‐Ping
Published: October 2021

Maleimides and succinimides are all vital scaffolds in biological fields and various natural products. Maleimide derivatives have been extensively used as coupling partners for various organic transformations, affording a broad array of important molecular architectures including succinimides. In the past decade, a variety of efficient chelation‐assisted strategies have been employed for the selective addition of C−H bonds to maleimides giving succinimides, which are also highly important building blocks in organic synthesis. This Review provides an overview of research progress relating to maleimides participated transition‐metal‐catalyzed group‐directed C−H alkylation from 2012 to 2021. Significant advances in this field were highlighted, diverse transition metal catalysts, organic substrates contained different directing groups, reaction mechanisms as well as synthetic applications are systematically discussed. In addition, the limitations and intractable issues need to be solved in the future are also pointed out.
Generalizing across behavior settings can make attitudes toward social groups more extreme in the absence of new information
Authors: Decker Kaleigh A. , Lord Charles G.
Published: October 2021

Previous research has shown that attitudes can become more extreme through mere thought. The present studies tested whether one specific type of thought—generalizing about a group's traits across settings—makes attitudes toward the group more extreme. We gave participants in four experiments initial information about (fictitious) foreign groups who wanted to enter the United States. The initial information concerned traits the group displayed in a specific type of setting. Participants thought it highly likely the group's traits would generalize across settings. Compared to reviewing the information given, generalizing made both negative (Experiment 1) and positive (Experiment 2) attitudes and behavioral intentions more extreme, regardless of the initial or generalized setting (Experiment 3). Individual differences in correspondence bias moderated the effects of generalizing versus reviewing on attitudes and behavioral intentions (Experiment 4). The current findings offer novel insights into how a specific type of thought can make attitudes more extreme.
Single bubble in‐tube microextraction coupled with capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Jeong Sunkyung , Noulorsaytour Xamyo , Valdez Joseph E. , Chung Doo Soo
Published: October 2021

Headspace (HS) extraction is a sample pretreatment technique for volatile and semivolatile organic compounds in a complex matrix. Recently, in‐tube microextraction (ITME) coupled with CE using an acceptor plug placed in the capillary inlet was developed as a simple but powerful HS extraction method. Here, we present single bubble (SB) ITME using a bubble hanging to the capillary inlet immersed in a sample donor solution as a HS of submicroliter volume (∼200 nL). The analytes evaporated to the bubble were extracted into the acceptor phase through the capillary opening, then electrophoresis of the enriched extract was carried out. Since the bubble volume was much smaller than a conventional HS volume (∼1 mL), it was filled with the evaporated analytes rapidly and the analytes could be enriched much faster compared to conventional HS‐ITME. Owing to the high surface‐to‐volume ratio of the SB, 5 min SB‐ITME yielded the enrichment factor values similar to those of 10 min HS‐ITME. When 5 min SB‐ITME at room temperature was applied to a tap water sample, the enrichment factors of 2,4,6‐trichlorophenol (TCP), 2,3,6‐TCP, and 2,6‐dichlorophenol were 53, 41, and 60, respectively, and the LOQs obtained by monitoring the absorbance at 214 nm were 5.6–8.3 ppb, much lower than 200 ppb, the World Health Organization guideline for the maximum permissible concentration of 2,4,6‐TCP in drinking water.
System eigenmobilities in zone electrophoresis: A general moving‐boundary approach
Authors: Gebauer Petr
Published: October 2021

System zones in capillary zone electrophoresis represent an important topic, very interesting from the theoretical point but also important for practice. This paper is aimed at contributing to the understanding of system zones as one of the very fundamental properties of electrophoretic systems, by developing an alternative approach to the so far used vector‐matrix model of calculation of system mobilities (system eigenmobilities). The presented model is based on the solution of the differential form of the moving‐boundary equation. The result for acid‐base systems is a single algebraic equation valid universally for a zone comprising any number of constituents (mono‐ or polyhydric strong or weak acids or bases and/or amphoteric compounds). The value of the described solution against previous models consists in its explicit form, expressing the system eigenmobility of a homogeneous zone of given composition as a function of only known quantities. The obtained equation is shown to be the common source of various simplified equations obtained in the past for particular simple systems. The applicability of the simplified equations is discussed in terms of completeness of the results (number of output system eigenmobilities). For non‐buffered systems, the occurrence of a previously unreported non‐zero value of system eigenmobility is discussed that is equal to the arithmetic average of mobilities of the solvent ions.
Screening of prototype antiseizure and anti‐inflammatory compounds in the Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus model of epilepsy
Authors: Metcalf Cameron S. , Vanegas Fabiola , Underwood Tristan , Johnson Kristina , West Peter J. , Smith Misty D. , Wilcox Karen S.
Published: October 2021

Objective

Infection with Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) in C57Bl/6J mice results in handling‐induced seizures and is useful for evaluating compounds effective against infection‐induced seizures. However, to date only a few compounds have been evaluated in this model, and a comprehensive study of antiseizure medications (ASMs) has not yet been performed. Furthermore, as the TMEV infection produces marked neuroinflammation, an evaluation of prototype anti‐inflammatory compounds is needed as well.

Methods

Male C57Bl/6J mice were inoculated with TMEV (day 0) followed by daily administrations of test compounds (day 3‐7) and subsequent handling sessions (day 3‐7). Doses of ASMs, comprising several mechanistic classes, were selected based on previously published data demonstrating the effect of these compounds in reducing seizures in the 6 Hz model of pharmacoresistant seizures. Doses of anti‐inflammatory compounds, comprising several mechanistic classes, were selected based on published evidence of reduction of inflammation or inflammation‐related endpoints.

Results

Several prototype ASMs reduced acute seizures following TMEV infection: lacosamide, phenytoin, ezogabine, phenobarbital, tiagabine, gabapentin, levetiracetam, topiramate, and sodium valproate. Of these, phenobarbital and sodium valproate had the greatest effect (>95% seizure burden reduction). Prototype anti‐inflammatory drugs celecoxib, dexamethasone, and prednisone also moderately reduced seizure burden.

Significance

The TMEV model is utilized by the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP) as a tool for evaluation of novel compounds. Compounds reducing seizures in the TMEV comprise distinct mechanistic classes, some with mechanisms of action that extend beyond traditional ASMs.
Bringing Home la Leche: Expanding Teachers’ Maternal Roles in Rural Oaxaca
Authors: Howell Jayne
Published: October 2021

Maestra(woman teacher) is the most common occupation of Mexican women who pursue higher education. This coincides with perceptions that teaching is a public manifestation of women's prescribed responsibility for socializing children. And yet, like women teachers elsewhere, maestras who are mothers routinely struggle to juggle their household, childcare and employment responsibilities. This ethnographic study explores the extreme work‐life imbalance experienced by rural maestras in the state of Oaxaca. Because the mountainous terrain and underdeveloped infrastructure complicate commuting, maestras assigned to isolated communities may stay in these villages while their children live with other relatives. This discussion explores ways that these women's extradomestic employment that is at odds with local ideals of the “good mother” who is at home with her children may actually help reshape constructions of maternal roles and responsibilities. Analysis of mothers' narratives reveals the emotional strains of being away from their children, and speaks to the pride these dedicated teachers take in “bringing home the milk” as economic providers. Ultimately, the tensions these agentive mothers confront and negotiate in their private and professional lives underscore ways that the prioritization of the latter in gender role norms limits women's options, choices and opportunities for full empowerment.
Do VIX futures contribute to the valuation of VIX options?
Authors: Tong Chen , Huang Zhuo , Wang Tianyi
Published: October 2021

As the volatility index (VIX) is nontradable, most investors use the exchange‐traded VIX futures to hedge their exposures in VIX options. However, the information role of VIX futures in pricing VIX options is not fully explored empirically. This paper derives two types of VIX option pricing formula using VIX index and VIX futures as state variables accordingly based on a simple discrete‐time VIX dynamics with long memory and asymmetric jumps. Empirical results show that models utilizing VIX futures significantly outperform competing models based on S&P 500 index (SPX) returns, realized volatility, or the VIX index itself. Our findings are robust in out‐of‐sample.
N‐acetylgalactosaminyltransferase‐4 protects against hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury by blocking apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 N‐terminal dimerization
Authors: Zhou Jiangqiao , Guo Lina , Ma Tengfei , Qiu Tao , Wang Sichen , Tian Song , Zhang Li , Hu Fengjiao , Li Wei , Liu Zhen , Hu Yufeng , Wang Tianyu , Kong Chenyang , Yang Juan , Zhou Junjie , Li Hongliang
Published: October 2021

Background and Aims

Ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury is an inevitable complication of liver transplantation (LT) and compromises its prognosis. Glycosyltransferases have been recognized as promising targets for disease therapy, but their roles remain open for study in hepatic I/R (HIR) injury. Here, we aim to demonstrate the exact function and molecular mechanism of a glycosyltransferase, N‐acetylgalactosaminyltransferase‐4 (GALNT4), in HIR injury.

Approach and Results

By an RNA‐sequencing data‐based correlation analysis, we found a close correlation between GALNT4 expression and HIR‐related molecular events in a murine model. mRNA and protein expression of GALNT4 were markedly up‐regulated upon reperfusion surgery in both clinical samples from subjects who underwent LT and in a mouse model. We found that GALNT4 deficiency significantly exacerbated I/R‐induced liver damage, inflammation, and cell death, whereas GALNT4 overexpression led to the opposite phenotypes. Our in‐depth mechanistic exploration clarified that GALNT4 directly binds to apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) to inhibit its N‐terminal dimerization and subsequent phosphorylation, leading to a robust inactivation of downstream c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 and NF‐κB signaling. Intriguingly, the inhibitory capacity of GALNT4 on ASK1 activation is independent of its glycosyltransferase activity.

Conclusions

GALNT4 represents a promising therapeutic target for liver I/R injury and improves liver surgery prognosis by inactivating the ASK1‐JNK/p38 signaling pathway.
Responsive policies needed to secure rural supply from increasing female doctors: A perspective
Authors: O'Sullivan Belinda , McGrail Matthew , May Jennifer
Published: October 2021

Around the world, the supply of rural health services to address population health needs continues to be a wicked problem. Adding to this, an increasing proportion of female doctors is graduating from medical courses but gender is not accounted for within rural workforce policy and planning. This threatens the future capacity of rural medical services. This perspective draws together the latest evidence, to make the case for industry and government action on responsive policy and planning to attract females to rural medicine. We find that the factors that attract female doctors to rural practice are not the same as males. We identify female‐tailored policies require a re‐visioning of rural recruitment, use of employment arrangements that attract females and re‐thinking issues of rural training and specialty choice. We conceptualise a roadmap that includes co‐designing rural jobs within supportive teams, allowing for capped hours which align with childcare along with boosting of female peer support and mentorship. There is also a need to enhance flexible rural postgraduate training options in a range of specialties (at a time when many women are establishing families) and to consider viable partner employment (including for female doctors with university trained partners) and advertising specific rural attractors to women, including the chance to connect with communities and make a difference.
Soil water dynamics and water balance on a tropical coral island
Authors: Han Shengsheng , Liu Suxia , Mo Xingguo , Yang Lihu , Song Xianfang
Published: October 2021

Understanding soil water dynamics and the water balance of tropical coral islands is important for the utilization and management of their limited freshwater resources, which is only from rainfall. However, there is a significant knowledge gap in the influence of soil water on the water cycle of coral islands. Soil water dynamics and the water balance of Zhaoshu Island, Xisha Archipelago were thus investigated using soil moisture measurements and the Hydrus‐1D model from October 2018 to September 2019. Over the study period, vegetation transpiration, soil evaporation, groundwater recharge and storage in the vadose zone were approximately 196, 330, 365 and 20 mm, occupying 22%, 36%, 40% and 2% of annual rainfall total (911 mm), respectively. For the wet season (from May to October) these values became 75, 202, 455 and 40 mm, occupying 10%, 26% and 59% and 5% of the seasonal rainfall total (772 mm), respectively. During the dry season (from November to April), a dry soil layer between 40 and 120 cm depth of the soil profile was identified that prevented water exchange between the upper soil layers and the groundwater resulting in the development of deep roots so that vegetation could extract groundwater to supplement their water requirements. Vegetation not only consumes all dry season rainfall (140 mm) but extracts water deeply from groundwater (90 mm) as well as from the vadose layer (20 mm). As such, the vegetation appears to be groundwater‐dependent ecosystems. The research results aid us to better understand the process of water dynamics on coral islands and to protect coral island ecosystems.
A New Twist in Eutectic Composition: Deracemization of a Racemic Compound Amino Acid by Viedma Ripening and Temperature Fluctuation
Authors: Viedma Cristobal , Ortiz José Eugenio
Published: October 2021

Viedma ripening and temperature fluctuation are processes based on solution phase racemization and dissolution‐growth of racemic or scalemic conglomerates resulting in solid‐phase deracemization. The dissolution‐growth process is performed by abrasive grinding in the first case and by the temperature fluctuation in the second. But both methods have the intrinsic drawback of being only applicable to conglomerates, accounting for only 10 % of all chiral molecules and are not suitable for the 90 % of chiral compounds that crystallize as racemic compound. Herein we show that the enantiomeric excess of the solution in the eutectic mixture formed by a racemic compound and one of its enantiomers in suspension changes dramatically by growth‐dissolution of the crystals through grinding and temperature fluctuation, converting the racemic compound into the desired enantiomer. With this new finding the scope of Viedma ripening and temperature fluctuation could be significantly expanded and can shed new ideas about the origin of biological homochirality on earth.
LncRNA FGF14‐AS2 represses growth of prostate carcinoma cells via modulating miR‐96‐5p/AJAP1 axis
Authors: Li Rubing , Chen Yingcong , Wu Jingwei , Cui Xiaobo , Zheng Sinian , Yan Huaqing , Wu Yiming , Wang Feng
Published: October 2021

Objective

This investigation devoted to lncRNA FGF14 antisense RNA 2 (FGF14‐AS2) in prostate carcinoma progression.

Methods

The levels of lncRNA FGF14‐AS2, miR‐96‐5p, and Adherens junction‐associated protein‐1 (AJAP1) in prostate carcinoma were tested by Western blot and qRT‐PCR. How these two genes interacted was confirmed by RNA immunoprecipitation and dualluciferase gene methods. The effect of FGF14‐AS2/miR‐96‐5p/AJAP1 axis in prostate carcinoma progression was determined by MTT, Transwell, and nude mice tumor model.

Results

FGF14‐AS2 was a downregulated lncRNA in prostate carcinoma tissue and cells. FGF14‐AS2 could restrain miR‐96‐5p expression while miR‐96‐5p hampered AJAP1. FGF14‐AS2 could effectively decrease the biological behaviors of prostate carcinoma cells, while knock‐down of FGF14‐AS2 triggered opposite results. Moreover, miR‐96‐5p mimic presented a cancer promoter role in prostate carcinoma cells. AJAP1 expression level could affect levels of proteins related to epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. In vivo experiment suggested that overexpressing FGF14‐AS2 could reverse the promotion of silenced AJAP1 on prostate carcinoma cell metastasis, thus to inhibit tumor growth.

Conclusion

lncRNA FGF14‐AS2 was a downregulated lncRNA in prostate carcinoma and influenced cell proliferation and metastasis. The influence relied on modulating miR‐96‐5p and its target gene AJAP1.
Myeloid dendritic cells in severe aplastic anemia patients exhibit stronger phagocytosis
Authors: Sun Yingying , Wu Chengcheng , Liu Chunyan , Wang Huaquan , Zhang Yang , Zhang Yu , Ran Ningyuan , Shao Zonghong
Published: October 2021

Background

A deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is urgently warranted to achieve better therapeutic effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the phagocytosis of myeloid dendritic cell (mDC) in SAA patients.

Methods

Myeloid dendritic cells were induced in vitro from bone marrow mononuclear cells from 26 SAA patients and 12 normal controls (HCs). The phagocytosis of mDCs was detected by flow cytometry using FITC‐Dextran (40KD), and its correlation with the immune status and severity of the disease was analyzed.

Results

The phagocytosis of mDC from untreated SAA patients was significantly stronger than that from complete remission group and HC group (p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between the latter two groups (p > 0.05). The phagocytosis of mDC from SAA patients correlated positively with the concentration of interleukin (IL)‐2 (r = 0.389,p < 0.05), and IL‐4 (r = 0.556,p < 0.05), negatively with CD4+/CD8+ratio (r = −0.421,p < 0.05). It also had negative correlations with the level of hemoglobin (r = −0.393,p < 0.05), white blood cell (r = −0.436,p < 0.05), platelet (r = −0.431,p < 0.05), and reticulocyte (r = −0.447,p < 0.05). The phagocytosis of mDC does not correlate with the response to IST.

Conclusions

The increased phagocytosis of mDC in untreated SAA patients may contribute to abnormal activation of T helper (Th) and subsequent cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation in these patients. It may be involved in the immune pathogenesis of SAA.
Fifty years of articles in JEQ on trace elements in the environment and future outlook
Authors: Strawn Daniel G. , Hettiarachchi Ganga M.
Published: October 2021

Fifty years ago, the Journal of Environmental Quality (JEQ) was launched to provide an outlet for publication of research on the impacts of agriculture on the environment, and vice versa. A core concept of JEQ is advancement of environmental science, with emphasis on understanding factors that affect the fate, risks, and quality of soil, water, and atmospheric systems, and how these system processes affect plants, microbes, and animals. Trace elements are a focus area of JEQ because when present at higher than natural concentrations, they may pose risks to environmental quality and ecosystem health, depending on their bioavailability. Trace element biogeochemical cycling is affected by anthropogenic influences on land, air, and water, including land management practices such as agriculture and mining. The Journal of Environmental Quality has published a prolific catalog of scientific research publications on trace elements and their risks to humans, soil health, water quality, and the environment. In this review, research on trace elements and their impacts on environmental quality is presented, with a special focus on work published in JEQ.
EZH2 upregulates the expression of MAPK1 to promote intervertebral disc degeneration via suppression of miR‐129‐5p
Authors: Zhou Meng , He Shuang‐Jun , Liu Wei , Yang Mao‐Jie , Hou Zhen‐Yang , Meng Qian , Qian Zhong‐Lai
Published: October 2021

Background

This study was designed to verify whether enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) affects intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) development through regulation of microRNA (miR)‐129‐5p/MAPK1.

Methods

Initially, we collected lumbar nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue samples from patients with juvenile idiopathic scoliosis (n = 14) and IVDD (n = 34). We measured the expression of related genes in clinical IVDD tissues and a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced NP cell model. After loss‐ and gain‐of‐function assays, NP cell proliferation and senescence were examined. The targeting relationship between miR‐129‐5p and MAPK1 was explored by dual luciferase reporter gene and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The enrichment of EZH2 and H3K27me3 in miR‐129‐5p promoter was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Finally, an IVDD rat model was established to test the effects of transduction with lentiviral vector carrying miR‐129‐5p agomir and/or oe‐EZH2 in vivo.

Results

miR‐129‐5p was underexpressed, and EZH2 and MAPK1 levels were overexpressed in lumbar nucleus pulposus from human IVDD patients and in LPS‐induced NP cells. miR‐129‐5p overexpression or silencing of MAPK1 promoted proliferation of NP cells, while inhibiting their senescence. EZH2 inhibited miR‐129‐5p through H3K27me3 modification in the miR‐129‐5p promoter. miR‐129‐5p could target the downregulation of MAPK1 expression. EZH2 overexpression increased the release of inflammatory factors and cell senescence factors, which was reversed by miR‐129‐5p agomir in vivo.

Conclusions

Taken together, EZH2 inhibits miR‐129‐5p through H3K27me3 modification, which upregulates MAPK1, thereby promoting the development of IVDD.
Connected cubic graphs with the maximum number of perfect matchings
Authors: Horak Peter , Kim Dongryul
Published: October 2021

It is proved that for , the number of perfect matchings in a simple connected cubic graph on vertices is at most , with being the ‐th Fibonacci number. The unique extremal graph is characterized as well. In addition, it is shown that the number of perfect matchings in any cubic graph equals the expected value of a random variable defined on all 2‐colorings of edges of . Finally, an improved lower bound on the maximum number of cycles in a cubic graph is provided.
International Population Study in Spain, Cuba, and the United States of Attitudes Toward Organ Donation Among the Cuban Population
Authors: Ríos Antonio , Sánchez‐Martínez Alvaro , Ayala‐García Marco Antonio , Gutiérrez Pedro R. , Palacios Gerardo , Iniesta‐Sepúlveda Marina , Ramírez Pablo , López‐Navas Ana Isabel
Published: October 2021

Cuban immigrants constitute an important group in both the United States and Spain, with different behaviors toward organ donation having been described among the different Latin American nationalities. We analyzed the attitude toward organ donation among the Cuban populations in Cuba, Spain, and Florida. The study population was Cuban immigrants over 15 years of age residing in Cuba, Spain, and Florida, with samples randomly stratified by age and sex. A validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects of organ donation (PCID‐DTO Rios) was used. Census was used as the sampling base in all 3 countries; however, additionally, in Spain and the United States (Florida), we sought the support of immigration support associations to determine the Cuban population without legal documentation. The questionnaire was completed anonymously and self‐administered. The completion rate of the study was 74% (4123/5574) among 424 surveyed in Spain, 1224 in Florida, and 2475 in Cuba. The attitude in favor of donating their own organs upon death was 60.6% of those surveyed in Spain, 37.6% in Florida, and 68.9% in Cuba, or 58% of the global sample. Multivariate analysis showed that country of residence was an independent factor associated with attitude toward organ donation (odds ratio, 1.929). Other factors associated with attitude were sex, educational level, performance of prosocial activities, knowledge of the brain death concept, religion, the couple’s opinion toward donation, fear of mutilation after donation, and attitude toward manipulation of the body after death. The attitude toward organ donation among Cubans in their country of origin and immigrants in Spain was similar, being significantly different from those who emigrate to Florida, where the attitude is much less favorable.
Multifunctional Shape Memory Films for a Flexible Electrical Sensor
Authors: Liu Kuo , Yang Dan , Yang Hongfen , Lu Shaorong , Cai Ren , Tan Weihong
Published: October 2021

Shape memory polymers exhibit great potential for applications in aeronautics, astronautics, biomedicine, intelligent robots, and electronics. Based on traditional fabrication methods, as‐prepared shape memory micro‐/nanodevices are brittle with poor deformability. For instance, these devices shatter or crack when they are bent, which greatly limit their practical applications. In particular, there has been little use of shape memory films for high performance sensing devices in electrical circuits. Here, a novel polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film is fabricated from a mixture of graphene nanosheets (GNs), sisal cellulose microcrystals (CNC), polyamine‐functionalized perylene bisimide derivative (APBI), and PVA through a simple electrospinning technique. These novel PVA films exhibit excellent thermal, mechanical, and shape memory properties. Moreover, after spin‐coating with Ag nanowires, the PVA films show excellent conductivity and flexibility in shape memory recovery cycles, and are used as a flexible sensing device in the circuit.
A proof of the completeness of Lamb modes
Authors: Akian Jean‐Luc
Published: October 2021

The aim of this paper is to give a precise proof of the completeness of Lamb modes of an elastic isotropic plate. This proof is relatively simple and short but relies on two powerful mathematical theorems. The first one is a theorem on elliptic systems with a parameter due to Agranovich and Vishik. The second one is a theorem due to Locker which gives a criterion to show the completeness of the set of generalized eigenvectors of a Hilbert–Schmidt discrete operator.
Banach, Kannan, Chatterjea, and Reich‐type contractive inequalities for multivalued mappings and their common fixed points
Authors: Debnath Pradip
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we present Banach, Kannan, Chatterjea, and Reich‐type contractive inequalities for multivalued mappings and prove the existence of their common fixed points in a complete metric space without assuming compactness of the images under those mappings.