bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanotechnology in Enhanced oil Recovery: A Review of Current Research
Authors: U.E. AKPAN, , O. OKOYE.
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, nanotechnology has emerged as one of the revolutionary approaches in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), having a high capability for solving many of the challenges related to conventional methods. This technology applies nanoparticles to achieve higher recovery through various mechanisms, which include the alteration of wettability, reduction of interfacial tension, and stabilization of emulsion. These different nanomaterials include silica, metal oxides, and carbon-based nanomaterials, which showed great improvement in oil displacement and recovery rates both at laboratory experiments and in field trials. However, there are some problems of nanofluids' stability, economic feasibility, and environmental safety that have to be overcome. This reminds one that the current trend in research is focused on hybrid, biodegradable nanoparticles, integrated nanotechnology with low-salinity water flooding, and smart nanomaterials responsive to reservoir conditions. In essence, since this is a field in continuous evolution, the accomplishment of full potential regarding nanotechnology application for efficient and sustainable oil recovery practices calls for unending research and collaboration.
DUS Characterization in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) using Morphological Descriptors
Authors: Singh Dharm Veer , Pratap Vijay , Kamaluddin  , Purwar Shalini , Singh Abhishek , Singh Anurag , Singh Shivendra Pratap
Published: December 2024

DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) characterization is a critical process in the identification and registration of new plant varieties, ensuring their uniqueness, consistency, and reproducibility. In lentil (Lens culinaris), the Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) characterization is vital in plant breeding, ensuring new varieties have unique, consistent, and stable traits. This characterization protects breeders' intellectual property, supports varietal registration, and aids in efficient crop improvement. The present study was carried out to characterize the twenty-eight lentil genotypes on the basis of thirteen DUS characters following the guidelines from Plant Protection of Varieties and Farmer’s Right Authority, GOI. The experimental material was planted in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications during Rabi 2022 and 2023. No variation was observed for two traits viz., flowering and leaf pubescence, whereas rest of the characters showed the variation in lentil genotypes. The cotyledon colour of four genotypes was yellow and remaining 24 genotypes showed orange cotyledon colour. Foliage intensity of green colour, leaflet size (length), Plant growth habit, flower colour, seed size and seed testa colour showed trimorphic variation while stem anthocyanin, Plant height, Pod anthocyanin colouration, Seed testa mottling and Cotyledon colour showed dimorphic variation. This study on lentil genotypes revealed significant genetic diversity in agro-morphological traits, supporting variety registration under the PPV & FR Act. The insights gained enrich lentil breeding programs, fostering advancements in trait selection, molecular breeding, and variety improvement.
Comparative Effect of Farm Yard Manure (FYM), Areca Husk Compost, and Coir Pith Compost on the Growth Performance and Yield Quality of Babycorn (Zea mays L.)
Authors: N V Akshay , Basavalingaiah  , Sudharani N. , Sridhara C. J. , Shilpashree Y. P.
Published: December 2024

A field experiment has been conducted during rabi 2023 at College of Agriculture, Navile, Shivamogga. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with thirteen treatments and replicated thrice and treatment consist of twelve organic nutrition treatments and an inorganic treatment which followed the standard package of practice (150:75:40 kg N: P2O5: K2O ha-1). In organic treatments the organic manures FYM, Areca husk compost and Coir pith compost applied in combination and sole. Among the organic treatments, application of 50 percent N through FYM + 50 percent N through areca husk compost (T2) reported higher plant higher plant height (153.13 cm), Leaf area (48.49 dm2), Leaf area index (5.39), Length of babycorn (11.34 cm), Girth of babycorn (5.64 cm), Weight of babycorn (16.10 g), Husked (119.0 q ha-1), Dehusked (45.1q ha-1), and Green fodder yield of babycorn (29.0 t ha-1) which was on par with package of practice (T1). Quality parameters, crude protein (17.37%), crude fibre (4.32%) and starch content (8.96%) were significantly higher in 50 percent N through FYM + 50 percent N through areca husk compost (T2).
Effect of GA3 and Time of Seed Soaking on Germination and Seedling Vigour of Sandalwood
Authors: Pawar Yogesh , Varma L. R. , More S. G.
Published: December 2024

The experiment was carried out under greenhouse condition with two factors i.e., different GA3 levels viz., Control (g0), seed soaking in GA3 100 ppm (g1), seed soaking in GA3 200 ppm (g2), seed soaking levels viz., in GA3 300 ppm (g3), seed soaking in GA3 400 ppm (g4), seed soaking in GA3 500 ppm (g5) and seed soaking for 12 hours (t1), seed soaking for 18 hours (t2) and seed soaking for 24 hours (t3). The results of the study revealed that, significantly minimum days for germination (21.44), higher survival percentage at 60 days after sowing (65.35), number of roots per seedling at the time of final survival (4.40), maximum length of roots per seedling at 60 days after sowing (7.58 cm) and height of plant at 90 days after sowing (12.27 cm), maximum survival percentage (100) at 15 days after bagging and stem diameter at 90 days after sowing (0.24 cm) was recorded with treatment g5 (Seed soaking in GA3 500 ppm). From the pooled data, significantly early germination (22.00 days), maximum survival percentage (59.87) at 60 days after sowing, number of roots (4.00) per seedling at the time of final survival, length of roots per seedling (7.76 cm) at 60 days after sowing, height of plant at 90 days after sowing (12.03 cm), maximum survival percentage (99.69) at 15 days after bagging and stem diameter at 90 days after sowing (0.23 cm) was recorded with treatment t3 (Seed soaking for 24 hours). From the present investigation, sandalwood seed soaking treatment with GA3 500 ppm for 24 hours recorded early germination, higher survival and superior in seedling vigour.
Conducting Children’s Life Education Based on Tao Xingzhi’s Theory of Life Education
Authors: Zirong Zhu
Published: December 2024

The essence of human life serves as the origin of education. From recognizing the preciousness of life, respecting and valuing individual lives, to appreciating other forms of life, the pursuit of the value and meaning of life is an ongoing journey. Tao Xingzhi’s life education philosophy encompasses profound insights on life education, offering valuable perspectives for reflection and understanding. Early childhood is a crucial period for forming life concepts. During this stage, implementing life education focused on young children encourages them to explore, engage in critical thinking, and continuously construct their understanding of life’s profound meaning.
Performance Evaluation of a Finned Solar Air Collector: Numerical and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Tubreoumya Guy Christian , Tiendrebeogo Eloi Salmwendé , Baguian Abdoul Fayçal , Dabilgou Téré , GUIRO Ousmane , Nebié Jacques , Bagré Boubou , Zeghmati Belkacem , Dissa Alfa Oumar , Koulidiati Jean , Bere Antoine
Published: December 2024

The present study aimed to highlight the performance evaluation of a finned solar air collector. This device works in forced conversion and is destined to dry products. The necessity of improving the thermal performances of the solar air collector for specific needs has encouraged us to realize this study. For that, we design a model of solar air collector in which, fins are fixed on its absorber to produce a turbulent flow of air. The air gets through the fins in the same row and induces a good distribution, then reduces the dead areas. The determination of temporal the variations of the glass temperature, the ambient surface, the entrance and exist of the collector, the global radiation in addition, constitute the focal point of this study. The results give a maximum temperature of 74.2° C, the exist of the collector, 78.5 ° C at the surface of the glass, and 107.4 ° C at the surface of the absorber able of satisfying the drying process Our prototype because of the particularity of its absorber permits to reach efficiency superior to 45%.
Catalytic Asymmetric
S
uzuki–
M
iyaura Couplings
Authors: Goetzke F. Wieland , Van Dijk Lucy , Fletcher Stephen P.
Published: December 2019

The transition metal‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling is widely used across industry and academia. This chapter describes the catalytic asymmetric variants of the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction between organoboron species and (pseudo)halides. In these procedures, racemic and/or achiral reactants give enantioenriched coupling products, with the asymmetry being induced by a chiral catalyst. Stereospecific transformations and chiral auxiliary approaches are not covered in this chapter. Csp
2
Csp
2
bond‐forming Suzuki–Miyaura reactions, which generate axial, planar, or point chiral products, are discussed, followed by an exploration of Csp
3
‐hybridized nucleophiles and/or electrophiles, which are cross‐coupled via mechanisms involving desymmetrization or enantioconvergent processes to give point chiral coupling products. The development of enantioselective variants of the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling is an active field of research with many exciting opportunities and potential application yet to be uncovered.
The Chemistry of Organotrifluoroborates
Authors: Cavalcanti Livia N. , Bento Júlia C. C. V. , Molander Gary A.
Published: December 2019

Organotrifluoroborates have emerged as among the most versatile class of organoboron reagents for elaboration of complex organic molecules. They are air‐ and moisture‐stable crystalline solids or free‐flowing powders that can be easily prepared and stored on the bench for years without decomposition. Furthermore, the tetra‐coordinated nature of organotrifluoroborates engenders unique reactivity patterns complementary to those of the tri‐coordinated organoboron species. Over the years, organotrifluoroborates have been employed in myriad reactions for carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bond formation, showing the importance of these compounds for synthetic organic chemistry. Herein described is an overview of the synthesis and application of organotrifluoroborates in a vast array of organic transformations.
Enhanced Magnetic Anisotropy and Orbital Symmetry Breaking in Manganite Heterostructures
Authors: Chen Pingfan , Huang Zhen , Li Mengsha , Yu Xiaojiang , Wu Xiaohan , Li Changjian , Bao Nina , Zeng Shengwei , Yang Ping , Qu Lili , Chen Jingsheng , Ding Jun , Pennycook Stephen John , Wu Wenbin , Venkatesan Thirumalai Venky , Ariando Ariando , Chow Gan Moog
Published: December 2019

Manipulating magnetic anisotropy in complex oxide heterostructures has attracted much attention. Here, three interface‐engineering approaches are applied to address two general issues with controlling magnetic anisotropy in the La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 heterostructure. One is the paradox arising from the competition between Mn3d–O2p orbital hybridization and MnO6 crystal field. The other is the interfacial region where the nonuniform MnO bond length d and MnOMn bond angle θ disturb the structural modulation. When the interfacial region is suppressed in the interface‐engineered samples, the lateral magnetic anisotropy energy is increased eighteen times. The d‐mediated anisotropic crystal filed that overwhelms the orbital hybridization causes the lateral symmetry breaking of the Mn 3dx2−y2 orbital, resulting in enhanced magnetic anisotropy. This is different from the classic Jahn–Teller effect where the lateral symmetry is always preserved. Moreover, the quantitative analysis on X‐ray linear dichroism data suggests a direct correlation between Mn 3dx2−y2 orbital symmetry breaking and magnetic anisotropy energy. The findings not only advance the understanding of magnetic anisotropy in manganite heterostructures but also can be extended to other complex oxides and perovskite materials with correlated degrees of freedom.
Photoinduced Defect Engineering: Enhanced Photothermal Catalytic Performance of 2D Black In2O3−x Nanosheets with Bifunctional Oxygen Vacancies
Authors: Qi Yuhang , Song Lizhu , Ouyang Shuxin , Liang Xichen , Ning Shangbo , Zhang QiQi , Ye Jinhua
Published: December 2019

Photothermal CO2 reduction technology has attracted tremendous interest as a solution for the greenhouse effect and energy crisis, and thereby it plays a critical role in solving environmental problems and generating economic benefits. In2O3−x has emerged as a potential photothermal catalyst for CO2 conversion into CO via the light‐driven reverse water gas shift reaction. However, it is still a challenge to modulate the structural and electronic characteristics of In2O3 to enhance photothermocatalytic activity synergistically. In this work, a novel route to activate inert In(OH)3 into 2D black In2O3−x nanosheets via photoinduced defect engineering is proposed. Theoretical calculations and experimental results verify the existence of bifunctional oxygen vacancies in the 2D black In2O3−x nanosheets host, which enhances light harvesting and chemical adsorption of CO2 molecules dramatically, achieving 103.21 mmol gcat−1 h−1 with near‐unity selectivity for CO generation and meanwhile excellent stability. This study reveals an exciting phenomenon that light is an ideal external stimulus on the layered In2O3 system, and its electronic structure can be adjusted efficiently through photoinduced defect engineering; it can be anticipated that this synthesis strategy can be extended to wider application fields.
Diastereoselective Palladium Catalyzed Carbenylative Amination of ortho‐Vinylanilines with 3‐Diazoindolin‐2‐ones
Authors: Reddy Angula Chandra Shekar , Reddy Palagulla Maheswar , Anbarasan Pazhamalai
Published: December 2019

A diastereoselective palladium catalyzed carbenylative amination of ortho‐vinylaniline with 3‐diazoindolines‐2‐one have been accomplished for the synthesis of various tetrasubstituted indoline fused spirooxindole with good yields and diastereoselectivity. Notable features of the method include construction of two contiguous tetrasubstituted carbon stereocenters via C−N and C−C bond formation in single operation, wide functional group tolerance and high atom and step economy. Importantly, the present reaction was also extended to one‐pot conversion of tosylhydrazones and ortho‐vinylanilines to spirooxindole derivatives.

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Donor–Acceptor Cyclopropanes as an Expedient Building Block Towards the Construction of Nitrogen‐Containing Molecules: An Update
Authors: Singh Priyanka , Varshnaya Rohit Kumar , Dey Raghunath , Banerjee Prabal
Published: December 2019

Nitrogen‐containing molecules are the key structural constituent of many pharmaceutical compounds that play a pivotal role in drug development. Owing to their multifaceted medicinal importance, several synthetic approaches have been delineated in the recent past for their construction. Over the past few decades the augmented use of donor–acceptor cyclopropanes (DACs) as three‐carbon synthetic equivalents, despite their ring strain, for the construction of innumerable hetero‐ and carbocycles of pharmaceutical importance has raised the interest of synthetic chemists to this topic. Owing to their zwitterionic nature due to the vicinal disposition of donor and acceptor groups, they have been frequently used in ring‐opening reactions, cycloadditions, and rearrangements. This review is mainly focused on assorted reactions of DACs with various nitrogen‐containing dipolarophiles like imines, azides, cyanates, isothiocyanates, nitrosocarbonyls, hydrazines, diaziridines, triazinanes, diazenes, etc. towards the synthesis of nitrogen‐containing molecules of pharmaceutical and industrial importance. This review is in continuation of our review published in the Israel Journal of Chemistry in April 2016, and includes the literature from April 2016 to May 2019.

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Colossal Tunneling Electroresistance in Co‐Planar Polymer Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Kumar Manasvi , Georgiadou Dimitra G. , Seitkhan Akmaral , Loganathan Kalaivanan , Yengel Emre , Faber Hendrik , Naphade Dipti , Basu Aniruddha , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Asadi Kamal
Published: December 2019

Ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs) are ideal resistance‐switching devices due to their deterministic behavior and operation at low voltages. However, FTJs have remained mostly as a scientific curiosity due to three critical issues: lack of rectification in their current‐voltage characteristic, small tunneling electroresistance (TER) effect, and absence of a straightforward lithography‐based device fabrication method that would allow for their mass production. Co‐planar FTJs that are fabricated using wafer‐scale adhesion lithography technique are demonstrated, and a bi‐stable rectifying behavior with colossal TER approaching 106% at room temperature is exhibited. The FTJs are based on poly(vinylidenefluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF‐TrFE)], and employ asymmetric co‐planar metallic electrodes separated by <20 nm. The tunneling nature of the charge transport is corroborated using Simmons direct tunneling model. The present work is the first demonstration of functional FTJs manufactured via a scalable lithography‐based nano‐patterning technique and could pave the way to new and exciting memory device concepts.
Identification of TMC1 as a relatively common cause for nonsyndromic hearing loss in the Saudi population
Authors: Ramzan Khushnooda , Al‐Owain Mohammed , Al‐Numair Nouf S. , Afzal Sibtain , Al‐Ageel Sarah , Al‐Amer Sultan , Al‐Baik Lina , Al‐Otaibi Ghoson F. , Hashem Amal , Al‐Mashharawi Eman , Basit Sulman , Al‐Mazroea Abdal H. , Softah Ameen , Sogaty Sameera , Imtiaz Faiqa
Published: December 2019

Hearing loss (HL) is the most common sensory disorder worldwide and genetic factors contribute to approximately half of congenital HL cases. HL is subject to extensive genetic heterogeneity, rendering molecular diagnosis difficult. Mutations of the transmembrane channel‐like 1 (TMC1) gene cause hearing defects in humans and mice. The precise function of TMC1 protein in the inner ear is unknown, although it is predicted to be involved in functional maturation of cochlear hair cells. TMC1 mutations result in autosomal recessive (DFNB7/11) and sometimes dominant (DFNA36) nonsyndromic HL. Mutations in TMC1 are responsible for a significant portion of HL, particularly in consanguineous populations. To evaluate the importance of TMC1 mutations in the Saudi population, we used a combination of autozygome‐guided candidate gene mutation analysis and targeted next generation sequencing in 366 families with HL previously shown to lack mutations in GJB2. We identified 12 families that carried five causative TMC1 mutations; including three novel (c.362+3A > G; c.758C > T [p.Ser253Phe]; c.1396_1398delACC [p.Asn466del]) and two reported mutations (c.100C > T [p.Arg34Ter]; c.1714G > A [p.Asp572Asn]). Each of the identified recessive mutation was classified as severe, by both age of onset and severity of HL. Similarly, consistent with the previously reported dominant variant p.Asp572Asn, the HL phenotype was progressive. Eight families in our cohort were found to share the pathogenic p.Arg34Ter mutation and linkage disequilibrium was observed between p.Arg34Ter and SNPs investigated. Our results indicate that TMC1 mutations account for about 3.3% (12/366) of Saudi HL cases and that the recurrent TMC1 mutation p.Arg34Ter is likely to be a founder mutation.
Effect of oxidized cellulose on human respiratory mucosa and submucosa and its implications for endoscopic skull‐base approaches
Authors: Goldschmidt Ezequiel , Schneck Meghan , Gau David M. , Carey Lauren , Rasmussen Jorge , Ferreyro Bruno , Ajler Pablo , Snyderman Carl , Wang Eric , Fernandez‐Miranda Juan , Gardner Paul A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Regenerated oxidized cellulose (ROC) sheets have gained popularity as an adjunct to a vascularized nasoseptal flap for closure of dural defects after endoscopic endonasal skull‐base approaches (EESBS). However, evidence supporting its impact on the healing process is uncertain. This study was performed to evaluate the impact of ROC on the nasal mucosa and assess its effects on tissue pH, structure, and cell viability.

Methods

In 5 patients, a 1‐cm2 piece of ROC gauze was placed on the surface of the middle turbinate before it was resected as part of a standard EESBS. Mucosa treated with ROC was separated from untreated mucosa and a histologic examination of structural changes in the respiratory epithelium was performed. To assess the effect of ROC on pH, increasing amounts of ROC were added to culture medium. Nasal fibroblasts viability was assessed in the presence of ROC before and after the pH was neutralized.

Results

Compared with unexposed controls, treated mucosa exhibited a higher incidence of cell necrosis and epithelial cell detachment. When added to Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium, ROC caused a dose‐dependent decrease in pH of the medium. Only 1 ± 0.8% of cultured fibroblasts exposed to the ROC‐induced acidic medium were alive, whereas 98.25 ± 0.5% of the cells were viable when the pH was neutralized (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

ROC applied in vivo to nasal mucosa induced epithelial necrosis likely by diminishing the medium pH, because pH neutralization prevents its effect. The ultimate effect of this material on the healing process is yet to be determined.
Risk factors for neo‐osteogenesis in cystic fibrosis and non‒cystic fibrosis chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Karempelis Peter , Karp Emily , Rubin Nathan , Hunter Ryan , Dunitz Jordan , Boyer Holly
Published: December 2019

Background

The purpose of this retrospective review was to determine how patient‐related factors and culture data affect neo‐osteogenesis in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with CRS.

Methods

Information from a database associated with a large tertiary medical center was used to assess adult patients with CF CRS and non‐CF CRS (total, n = 102; CF CRS, n = 31; non‐CF CRS, n = 71). Radiologic evidence of neo‐osteogenesis was measured using the Global Osteitis Scoring Scale (GOSS), and mucosal disease was assessed using the Lund‐Mackay score (LMS) by 2 independent reviewers who were blinded to the patient's disease state. Bacterial cultures were obtained endoscopically. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the effect of age, sex, number of previous surgeries, CF, and culture species on the odds of neo‐osteogenesis.

Results

Fifty‐one of the 102 patients (50%) met radiologic criteria for neo‐osteogenesis. Sixty‐nine patients (67.6%) with CF CRS and non‐CF CRS had culture data. In the multiple logistic regression model, male gender was significantly associated with neo‐osteogenesis (odds ratio [OR], 5.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.68‐17.86; p = 0.006). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was not associated with neo‐osteogenesis (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 0.84‐12.80; p = 0.097). Age, number of surgeries, CF, Staphylococcus aureus, and coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess risk factors associated with neo‐osteogenesis and patients with CF CRS. Interestingly, male gender was the only significant predictor of neo‐osteogenesis.
Therapeutic effects of Byrsocarpus coccineus root bark extract on bacterially and chemically induced diarrhea in the Wistar albino rat (Rattus norvegicus domestica)
Authors: Sunday Ejeh Augustine , Onyeyili Patrick Azubuike , Saganuwan Saganuwan Alhaji
Published: December 2019

Background

Diarrhea can be caused by pathogenic microorganisms and chemicals. In view of this, Byrsocarpus coccineus Schum and Thonn (Connaraceae) was used to treat diarrhea induced by castor oil or bacteria in Wistar albino rats.

Methods

Qualitative and quantitative analyses of an aqueous root back extract of B. coccineus were made and the acute toxicity, antidiarrhea properties, and in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial activities of the extract were investigated in rats.

Results

The phytochemical analysis of the root bark extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloid, saponins, tannins, and phenols. The quantitative analysis showed that saponins formed 10.6% of the extract, tannins 7.6%, flavonoids 6.2%, phenol 5.8% and alkaloids 4.4%. A dose limit of 5000 mg/kg was safe to use in the rats. At a dose of 100 mg/kg, the extract decreased distance travelled by activated charcoal in the gastrointestinal tract, frequency of defecation, and number of unformed faeces caused by castor oil‐induced diarrhea, and led to 74.96% inhibition of the diarrhea effects. Escherichia coli and Salmonella pullorum were susceptible to higher concentrations of the extract with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.3125 mg/mL. E. coli‐infected rats showed depression, weight loss, anorexia, diarrhea, and weakness, which was ameliorated by the extract on day 2 post treatment. Observed congestion, cellular infiltration and necrosis of the liver, intestine and kidney following infection were improved by the extract.

Conclusion

B. coccineus extract can be used in the treatment of anaemia, and castor oil‐ and E. coli‐induced diarrhea in rats.
Molecularly Engineered Macrophage‐Derived Exosomes with Inflammation Tropism and Intrinsic Heme Biosynthesis for Atherosclerosis Treatment
Authors: Wu Guanghao , Zhang Jinfeng , Zhao Qianru , Zhuang Wanru , Ding Jingjing , Zhang Chi , Gao Haijun , Pang Dai‐Wen , Pu Kanyi , Xie Hai‐Yan
Published: December 2019

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases worldwide, and alleviating inflammation is a promising strategy for AS treatment. Here, we report molecularly engineered M2 macrophage‐derived exosomes (M2 Exo) with inflammation‐tropism and anti‐inflammatory capabilities for AS imaging and therapy. M2 Exo are derived from M2 macrophages and further electroporated with FDA‐approved hexyl 5‐aminolevulinate hydrochloride (HAL). After systematic administration, the engineered M2 Exo exhibit excellent inflammation‐tropism and anti‐inflammation effects via the surface‐bonded chemokine receptors and the anti‐inflammatory cytokines released from the anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages. Moreover, the encapsulated HAL can undergo intrinsic biosynthesis and metabolism of heme to generate anti‐inflammatory carbon monoxide and bilirubin, which further enhance the anti‐inflammation effects and finally alleviate AS. Meanwhile, the intermediate protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) of the heme biosynthesis pathway permits the fluorescence imaging and tracking of AS.
Dimensional Reduction of Cs2AgBiBr6: A 2D Hybrid Double Perovskite with Strong Polarization Sensitivity
Authors: Li Yaobin , Yang Tao , Xu Zhiyun , Liu Xitao , Huang Xiaoying , Han Shiguo , Liu Yi , Li Maofan , Luo Junhua , Sun Zhihua
Published: December 2019

By dimensional reduction of the 3D motif of Cs2AgBiBr6, a lead‐free 2D hybrid double perovskite, (i‐PA)2CsAgBiBr7 (1, i‐PA=isopentylammonium), was successfully designed. It adopts a quantum‐confined bilayered structure with alternating organic and inorganic sheets. Strikingly, the unique 2D architecture endows it highly anisotropic nature of physical properties, including electric conductivity and optical absorption (the ratio αb/αc=1.9 at 405 nm). Such anisotropy attributes result in the strong polarization‐sensitive responses with large dichroic ratios up to 1.35, being comparable to some 2D inorganic materials. This is the first study on the hybrid double perovskites with strong polarization sensitivity. A crystal device of 1 also exhibits rapid response speed (ca. 200 μs) and excellent stabilities. The family of 2D hybrid double perovskites are promising optoelectronic candidates, and this work paves a new pathway for exploring new green polarization‐sensitive materials.
Investigation of physiochemical and rheological properties of waste cooking oil/SBS/EVA composite modified petroleum asphalt
Authors: Liu Shengjie , Zhou Shengbo , Peng Aihong , Li Wu
Published: December 2019

The objective of this research is to investigate the physiochemical and rheological properties of waste cooking oil (WCO)/styrene‐b‐butadiene‐b‐styrene/ethylene vinyl acetate (SBS/EVA) composite modified asphalt. A petroleum asphalt composite modified with SBS/EVA and oil/SBS/EVA were prepared to undergo the physical, rheological, and microscopic experiments. Comparing these tests results with the properties of unmodified petroleum asphalt, SBS and EVA cause an improvement in pavement performance, but weaken the storage stability. Although the high‐temperature performance undermined by the addition of WCO, the thermal stability, fatigue property, and low temperature crack resistance improved obviously. In addition, WCO mainly composed by low‐weight components, and these can supplement the light components in the polymer‐modified asphalt. EVA could increase the percentage of large molecular size of asphalt, while WCO relieves this trend. The reactions between WCO and these polymers (SBS and EVA) are physical reactions. Atomic force microscopy morphology results reflect that SBS and EVA increase the surface complexity and roughness, and WCO makes the asphalt surface smooth. This indicates WCO increases the dispersion of polymers in asphalt. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48828.
The role of desmosomes in the ear plug formation in the bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus)
Authors: Rehorek Susan J. , Stimmelmayr Raphaela , George John Craig , Suydam Robert , McBurney Denise L. , Thewissen J. G. M.
Published: December 2019

The external acoustic meatus (EAM) of most baleen whales accumulates cellular debris annually in the lumen as whales age, forming a lamellated ear plug. The bowhead whale ear plug is formed from annually molting lining of the EAM as the entire epithelium releases at the level of the stratum basale during the spring migration. Epithelial regeneration is mostly completed by the fall migration, remaining intact for 6–7 months before being torn off the following spring. Desmosomes are integral to cell–cell adhesion with connecting desmosomal cadherins desmoglein (dsg) and desmocollin (dsc). Paraffin sections of the oral cavity and EAM lining of spring and fall adult bowhead whales, as well as the EAM of spring‐caught juvenile, were immunohistochemically examined for the presence of these cadherins. In all fall specimens, both cadherins occurred in all layers except the superficial keratinous layer of the oral cavity. In spring, three different conditions existed: (a) oral cavity of spring‐caught adults had reduced cadherins, with superficial fissuring in its keratinized layer and vacuolation in the upper stratum spinosum; (b) EAM of juvenile spring‐caught whales displayed fissuring with accompanying reduction of both cadherins in its superficial lining; and (c) EAM lining of spring‐caught adults displayed deep fissures, reduced cadherins, and absence of dsc1 in the fissuring zone. These results suggest that shedding of skin layers in mammals, whether normal molting, pathological, or the result of injury and wound repair all revolve around desmosome function. The specific role, structure, and location of these two cadherins need to be further addressed.
A matter of trust: Higher education institutions as information fiduciaries in an age of educational data mining and learning analytics
Authors: Jones Kyle M. L. , Rubel Alan , LeClere Ellen
Published: December 2019

Higher education institutions are mining and analyzing student data to effect educational, political, and managerial outcomes. Done under the banner of “learning analytics,” this work can—and often does—surface sensitive data and information about, inter alia, a student's demographics, academic performance, offline and online movements, physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and social network. With these data, institutions and third parties are able to describe student life, predict future behaviors, and intervene to address academic or other barriers to student success (however defined). Learning analytics, consequently, raise serious issues concerning student privacy, autonomy, and the appropriate flow of student data. We argue that issues around privacy lead to valid questions about the degree to which students should trust their institution to use learning analytics data and other artifacts (algorithms, predictive scores) with their interests in mind. We argue that higher education institutions are paradigms of information fiduciaries. As such, colleges and universities have a special responsibility to their students. In this article, we use the information fiduciary concept to analyze cases when learning analytics violate an institution's responsibility to its students.
A Supramolecular Electrolyte for Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Xie Jin , Li Bo‐Quan , Song Yun‐Wei , Peng Hong‐Jie , Zhang Qiang
Published: December 2019

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Qiang Zhang. The cover picture exhibits the concept of a supramolecular electrolyte (SSE) in lithium metal batteries. Supramolecular organization affords the ion channel (represented by the bridge) towards the lithium metal electrode (represented by the flaring mountain). Structural units cucurbit[6]uril are shown as streetlights along the ion channel to enlighten Li+ (the vehicles) moving from/to the lithium metal electrode. With the supramolecular ion channel to connect the lithium electrode and to regulate the coordination environments, Li+ transportation is boosted, displaying high mobility in the electrolyte and comparable activity at the electrode–electrolyte interface. The supramolecular design of solid electrolyte not only affords an emerging family of electrolyte candidate for lithium metal batteries, but also inspires the mediation of ion transportation and interfacial properties in energy storage systems. Read the full text of the Communication at 10.1002/batt.201900112.
Bioinformatic profiling identifies a platinum‐resistant–related risk signature for ovarian cancer
Authors: Wu Ce , He Linxiu , Wei Qian , Li Qian , Jiang Longyang , Zhao Lan , Wang Chunyan , Li Jianping , Wei Minjie
Published: December 2019

Most high‐grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) patients develop resistance to platinum‐based chemotherapy and recur. Many biomarkers related to the survival and prognosis of drug‐resistant patients have been delved by mining databases; however, the prediction effect of single‐gene biomarker is not specific and sensitive enough. The present study aimed to develop a novel prognostic gene signature of platinum‐based resistance for patients with HGSOC. The gene expression profiles were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas database. A total of 269 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with platinum resistance were identified (P < .05, fold change >1.5). Functional analysis revealed that these DEGs were mainly involved in apoptosis process, PI3K‐Akt pathway. Furthermore, we established a set of seven‐gene signature that was significantly associated with overall survival (OS) in the test series. Compared with the low‐risk score group, patients with a high‐risk score suffered poorer OS (P < .001). The area under the curve (AUC) was found to be 0.710, which means the risk score had a certain accuracy on predicting OS in HGSOC (AUC > 0.7). Surprisingly, the risk score was identified as an independent prognostic indicator for HGSOC (P < .001). Subgroup analyses suggested that the risk score had a greater prognostic value for patients with grade 3‐4, stage III‐IV, venous invasion and objective response. In conclusion, we developed a seven‐gene signature relating to platinum resistance, which can predict survival for HGSOC and provide novel insights into understanding of platinum resistance mechanisms and identification of HGSOC patients with poor prognosis.
Knockdown of MAPK14 inhibits the proliferation and migration of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by downregulating the expression of CDC25B
Authors: Liu Junlong , Yu Xiuyue , Yu Hongyuan , Liu Bitian , Zhang Zhe , Kong Chuize , Li Zhenhua
Published: December 2019

Mitogen‐activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), which plays an important role in DNA damage and repair, is activated by various environmental stress and proinflammatory cytokines. It is highly active in a variety of tumors, acting as a tumor promoter or suppressor, but its role in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has not been elucidated. Cell division cycle 25B (CDC25B) is involved in cell cycle regulation and is highly expressed in many malignant tumors. The transcription levels of MAPK14 and CDC25B in 72 pairs of ccRCC and adjacent healthy tissues from the cancer genome atlas database and the protein expression levels in 66 pairs of clinical samples were analyzed in this study. After MAPK14 was knocked down by small interfering RNA (siRNA), P‐MAPK14 and CDC25B protein levels decreased. Subsequently, Western blot and co‐immunoprecipitation demonstrated that P‐MAPK14 could bind to CDC25B, potentially maintaining its stability. The proliferation and migration of ccRCC cell lines were suppressed by siRNA knockdown of MAPK14, however, that could be partially reversed by the overexpression of CDC25B. These results suggest that downregulation of MAPK14 and P‐MAPK14 could inhibit the proliferation and migration of ccRCC by downregulating CDC25B.
Sectional Connective Tissue Technique Combined With an Emergence Profile Provisional for Gingival Margin Stabilization During Immediate Implant Placement: A Case Report With a 2‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Dixon Douglas R. , Yassin Alaa
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Little is known regarding maintaining free gingival margin stability after immediate implant placement. Therefore, we present a sequential technique incorporating a sectional connective tissue graft with an emergence tissue provisional to stabilize the free gingival margin position during immediate implant placement in the esthetic zone.

Case Presentation

A 57‐year‐old male was referred for assessment and treatment of a failing maxillary right central incisor. Clinical examination revealed poor retentive features, recurrent caries, and exposed endodontic material rendering a poor prognosis for the remaining tooth root system. After comprehensive evaluation, as well as understanding important patient case expectations, a decision was made to remove the existing tooth and place an immediate implant with a staged‐provisional approach. To maintain the free gingival mid‐facial height, a sectional‐connective tissue graft technique was used concurrently with a custom emergence profile provisional to stabilize the gingiva immediately post‐implant placement.

Conclusion

Patients undergoing implant replacement of failing anterior maxillary teeth are at risk of esthetic complications. Marginal stability of the facial gingival is an important component of establishing and maintaining the final esthetic outcome. In cases where the initial hard or soft tissue thickness may put the patient at risk, combining soft and hard tissue augmentation with attention to emergence profile provisionalization appears to aid in the initial stability of the buccal free gingival margin. This report details the steps associated with a sectional connective tissue technique combined with emergence profile provisonalization and characterizes the gingival stability up to 2.5 years obtained with this approach.
Is heart transplantation a valuable option in patients with diffuse systemic sclerosis and primary cardiac involvement?
Authors: Turcotte‐Gosselin Frédéric , Turgeon Pierre Yves , Ikic Alena , Beaudoin Jonathan , Joubert Philippe , Dubois Michelle , Voisine Pierre , Sénéchal Mario
Published: December 2019

Systemic sclerosis patients with primary cardiac involvement can be reliably diagnosed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and are associated with a poor prognosis. This case report highlights the importance of considering heart transplantation in those patients as a lifesaving procedure.
Effect of Building Block Transformation in Covalent Triazine‐Based Frameworks for Enhanced CO2 Uptake and Metal‐Free Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Jena Himanshu Sekhar , Krishnaraj Chidharth , Schmidt Johannes , Leus Karen , Van Hecke Kristof , Van Der Voort Pascal
Published: December 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Pascal Van Der Voort at the University of Ghent and colleagues at Technische Universität Berlin. The image depicts the covalent triazine frameworks reported in the manuscript for the sorption of CO2 and also in metal‐free catalysis. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201903926.
Switching of Two‐Photon Optical Properties by Anion Binding of Pyrrole‐Based Boron Diketonates through Conformation Change
Authors: Kita Hanayo , Yamakado Ryohei , Fukuuchi Risa , Konishi Tatsuki , Kamada Kenji , Haketa Yohei , Maeda Hiromitsu
Published: December 2019

Two‐photon absorption (TPA) dyes with intense fluorescence can be used to detect small chemical species and as sensors and bioimaging probes for specific analytes. Various TPA dyes responding to a number of external stimuli have been reported. Among them, biologically important anionic species have not been used as agents to control TPA properties because their direct electronic influences on the transition dipole moments of dyes are typically small. In this study, dipyrrolyldiketone BF2 complexes substituted with π‐extended units exhibited efficient TPA properties that could be regulated by conformation changes induced by anion binding. The TPA intensity decreased to 1/5 of the original intensity upon anion binding, which was much larger than that observed for one‐photon absorption. Anion detection was achieved by a change in the emission intensity of spatially resolved spots of two‐photon‐excited fluorescence (TPEF) in the sample. Experimental and theoretical studies were performed to understand the mechanism of the TPA property control and showed that the drastic changes in the transition dipole moments upon conformation changes between the straight and bending forms of the π‐electronic systems caused the TPA and TPEF intensities drop.
Defining thyroid spherules: A benign cytomorphologic feature that mimics microfollicles
Authors: Costigan Danielle C. , Shaar Mohanad , Frates Mary C. , Alexander Erik K. , Barletta Justine A. , Cibas Edmund S.
Published: December 2019

Background

Distinctive rounded structures termed spherules have been observed in thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) samples. Although they are often small and interpreted as microfollicles, spherules are notable for the even spacing of the follicular cells along the perimeter of the structure. Because they have an orderly architectural arrangement, it has been hypothesized that spherules are benign and do not carry the same risk of malignancy that traditional microfollicles do. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical significance and histopathologic correlate of spherules.

Methods

Thyroid FNAs (n = 637) with an interpretation of atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) were reviewed for the presence of spherules, which were defined as small follicles with a rounded, smooth, sharply defined outer contour, evenly spaced nuclei, and a 3‐dimensional appearance. Cases were included if spherules accounted for >50% of follicular cell arrangements. Clinical, histopathologic, molecular, and sonographic follow‐up data were obtained.

Results

Twenty‐five spherule cases were identified, and they represented 3.9% of all AUS cases reviewed. All 24 cases with follow‐up had a benign outcome. Eleven were tested with the Afirma gene expression classifier; 8 were benign according to the gene expression classifier, and 3 were suspicious but histologically benign after surgical resection. Four additional cases were histologically benign after surgery. Five patients had repeat benign cytology. Four patients had repeat stable ultrasound findings.

Conclusions

Thyroid nodules diagnosed as AUS, if composed predominantly of spherules, are associated with a benign outcome. Recognizing this distinctive cytomorphologic finding may help to reduce the number of FNAs interpreted as AUS and save patients from unnecessary additional testing and surgery.
The Crystallinity of Metal Oxide in Carbonized Metal Organic Frameworks and the Effect on Restricting Polysulfides
Authors: Yan Yingchun , Wei Liangqin , Su Xin , Deng Shenzhen , Feng Jianze , Yang Jun , Chi Mingna , Lei Hu , Li Zhongtao , Wu Mingbo
Published: December 2019

Metal/carbon nanohybrids show promise for alleviating polysulfides shuttling in lithium‐sulfur batteries. However, the synergetic effect between amorphous metal and carbon to restrict the migration of polysulfides is still far from fully understood. Herein, two porous metal/carbon nanohybrids with different crystallinity metal oxides components (amorphous Al2O3 and crystal Fe3O4) have been prepared through pyrolysis of the MOF precursors, which are adopted as a sulfur support to impede the polysulfides shuttling. As expected, the amorphous Al2O3 with nitrogen‐doped porous carbon exhibits an attractive durability at 1 C over 1000 cycles, meanwhile, the coulombic efficiency could maintain at 97.5%. Compared to it, crystal Fe3O4 shows an inferior electrochemical performance, which is attributed to the amorphous structure that can accelerate ions diffusion and charge transfer to improve the rate performance and capacity. The distinguished discharge performance of the design will be potentially used to develop applicable Li‐S batteries.
Compressible Metalized Soft Magnetic Sponges with Tailorable Electrical and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Yan Xiaorong , Hu Mingjun , Liu Jinxing , Yan Li , Zhang Naibai , Gao Jiefeng , Liu Jinzhang , Shan Guangcun , Yang Jun
Published: December 2019

Porous metallic sponge has shown enormous application potential in many fields including electrochemical electrode, catalysis, sensors, separation and purification, microwave and sound inhibition, etc. In this paper, we described the preparation of a class of highly compressible Ni−Co alloy‐based sponges with tailorable conductivity and soft magnetic properties as well as EMI shielding ability by employing elastic porous melamine sponge as the support. The melamine sponge was first modified by one‐step dopamine‐triggered radical polymerization reaction, in which polymer brushes with quaternary ammonium cations were grafted onto the sponge fibers for the capture of negative catalyst moieties. The immobilized catalyst moieties could subsequently induce in‐situ chemical deposition of a uniform and well‐adhesive Ni−Co alloy layer with controllable compositions and thickness on the fiber surface owing to the interpenetrating network between hydrophilic polymer brushes and the in‐situ deposited metal layer. The obtained alloy sponges show good compression‐resilience property, excellent conductivity and favorable soft magnetic performance as well as good compressive fatigue resistance during repeated compression‐release cycles, and thus can find promising applications in many fields, including pressure resistance sensors, magnetic controlled pollutant absorbents, tunable EMI shielding materials, etc.