bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research progress of metal halide perovskite nanometer optoelectronic materials
Authors: Shi Wen-Qi , Tian Hong , Lu Yu-Xin , Zhu Hong , Li Fen , Wang Xiao-Xia , Liu Yan-Wen ,   Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,   University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China,   Tianjin Transportation Vocational College, Tianjin 300110, China
Published: December 2020

Metal halide perovskites, which have aroused the enormous interest from scientists recently, are widely used in a variety of areas such as solar cells, light emitting diodes (LED) and lasers. Nanomaterials exhibit distinguished optical and electrical properties because of their quantum confinement as well as strong anisotropy. The metal halide perovskite nanomaterials have the advantages of adjustable band gap, high quantum efficiency, strong photoluminescence, quantum confinement and long carrier-lifetime. Besides, as a result of the low-cost fabrication and the sufficient raw material reserve, they have a broad prospect in photoelectric applications. But on the other hand, the poor stability of metal halide perovskites, due to the defect trap states and grain boundaries on the surface, cast a shadow towards their practical applications. The moisture, oxygen and ultraviolet of the environment will degrade their photoelectric performances significantly. In this review, we introduce the synthesis and growth mechanism of metal perovskite nanomaterial quantum dots, nanowires and nanoplatelets, and present their novel photoelectric properties and applications in various photoelectric devices. Finally we summarize the emerging challenges and discuss the next-generation photoelectric applications.
On the Distance Between two Ellipses in \(\mathbb{R}^3\)
Authors:   Marin Drinov Academic Publishng House, Tounchev Ivaylo
Published: December 2020

We prove that in the general case the number of critical points of the distance function between two ellipses in \(\mathbb{R}^3\) equals to 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 or 16. As an example, the distance between the nowadays orbits of Neptune and Pluto has six critical points: one maximum two minima and three saddle points. The global minimum is 2.503 au (astronomical units), while the global maximum is 79.111 au. If we ignore the perturbations, then in year 21103 AD the distance between Neptune and Pluto would be 2.527 au.
Metage2Metabo, microbiota-scale metabolic complementarity for the identification of key species
Authors: Belcour Arnaud , Frioux Clémence , Aite Méziane , Bretaudeau Anthony , Hildebrand Falk , Siegel Anne
Published: December 2020

To capture the functional diversity of microbiota, one must identify metabolic functions and species of interest within hundreds or thousands of microorganisms. We present Metage2Metabo (M2M) a resource that meets the need for de novo functional screening of genome-scale metabolic networks (GSMNs) at the scale of a metagenome, and the identification of critical species with respect to metabolic cooperation. M2M comprises a flexible pipeline for the characterisation of individual metabolisms and collective metabolic complementarity. In addition, M2M identifies key species, that are meaningful members of the community for functions of interest. We demonstrate that M2M is applicable to collections of genomes as well as metagenome-assembled genomes, permits an efficient GSMN reconstruction with Pathway Tools, and assesses the cooperation potential between species. M2M identifies key organisms by reducing the complexity of a large-scale microbiota into minimal communities with equivalent properties, suitable for further analyses.
Controversial topics in agroecology: A European perspective
Authors: Migliorini Paola , Bàrberi Paolo , Bellon Stéphane , Gaifami Tommaso , Gkisakis Vassilis D. , Peeters Alain , Wezel Alexander
Published: December 2020

Seven potential controversial topics in agroecology are presented and discussed from a European perspective comparing the position of Agroecology Europe (AEEU) obtained from an iterative, participatory approach with members and compared with published literature, including views from other parts of the world. The seven controversial topics as follows: i) use of agrochemicals; ii) small-scale and peasant farming versus larger farms; iii) technological innovations in agriculture and precision farming; iv) biotechnology and genetic engineering in agriculture; v) local and short food circuits; vi) social justice; vii) gender perspective. The analysis shows that there are diverse points of view related to geographical area and sociopolitical contexts. However, there are several convergences in the ambition to redesign farming and food systems, as a lever acting on several topics, and in considering agroecology with a holistic, participatory, multiactor approach for the needed transition.
Agroecology: challenges and opportunities for farming in the Anthropocene
Authors: Altieri Miguel A. , Nicholls Clara I.
Published: December 2020

The multiple crises facing humanity at the onset of the Anthropocene are creating a moment in which agroecology acquires greater relevance as an alternative approach for meeting sustainable development goals and providing guidelines for the reconstruction of a post-COVID-19 agricultural system that is capable of minimizing future widespread disruptions of food supplies by pandemics and climate change by enhancing linkages between small-scale food production and local consumption. There are three main areas in which agroecology can be used in the development of a new post-COVID-19 agricultural system: revitalizing small farms, creating alternative animal production systems and enhancing urban agriculture. Focusing food and agricultural policies on agroecology as a main strategy for achieving autonomy and resilience can rapidly transform the ways in which we produce and consume food while addressing global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, poverty, and deteriorating health.
Enterovesical Fistula: A Serious Complication of Crohn Disease
Authors: Mejri Atef , Aloui Badreddine , Arfaoui Khaoula
Published: December 2020

Due to the anatomical proximity of the last ileal loop and the bladder, Crohn’s disease can affect the urinary tract by the formation of an Enterovesical Fistula (EVF). Although rare, it represents a complication with a potential impact on the patient’s quality of life and it is often difficult to manage. In addition to the Computed Tomographic (CT) findings, several other examinations can contribute to the diagnosis of EVF, which calls for adequate management based on disconnection of the digestive tract from the bladder and maintenance of medical treatment. Despite therapeutic advances in the context of Crohn’s disease, the EVF remains a surgical indication. The present case reported is of a successfully managed EVF which was revealed by fecaluria aiming to emphasise the clinical aspects and various diagnostic tools with a special mention of the key role of medical imaging in the diagnostic process and the surgical management.
C-Reactive Protein Kinetics in Prognosis of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Shit Chandan Kumar , Pothal Sudarsan , Behera Aurobindo , Manjhi Rekha , Dutta Pravati , Pradhan Gourahari
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Prognosis of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is commonly predicted by on-site assessment of clinical, haematological and biochemical parameters. Sequential measurement of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) which is one of the low-cost biomarkers could be useful in the early identification of poor outcome of VAP. Aim: To assess the prognostic value of progressive CRP levels in patients with VAP and compare with non-VAP group of ventilated patients. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational cohort study at medico-surgical ICU between November 2017 and October 2018. The patients on mechanical ventilator for more than 48 hours were divided into VAP (n=27) and non-VAP group (n=38). VAP was considered based on modified Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (CPIS) more than 6 along with microbiological evidence from Tracheal aspirate or Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid with consolidation in Chest X-ray. Study subjects were monitored for the development of VAP. CRP measurements were done daily for the first 7 days then on 14th day. The evolution of mean CRP concentration throughout the course of VAP and non-VAP were analysed and compared between survivors and non-survivors. Results: Mean CRP level of VAP patients on the day of diagnosis was almost similar to non-VAP cohort. The mean CRP of non-survivor groups of both VAP and non-VAP patients had shown a gradual increase after day 4. However, the mean CRP after day 4, in the survivor group of both VAP and non-VAP showed either decreasing or unchanged trends. Conclusion: It was evident that the dynamics of the CRP levels in patients with VAP can be used to assess the effects of the therapy for a better outcome.
CircATRNL1 activates Smad4 signaling to inhibit angiogenesis and ovarian cancer metastasis via miR‐378
Authors: Wang Juan , Li Yan , Zhou Jin‐Hua , Shen Fang‐Rong , Shi Xiu , Chen You‐Guo
Published: December 2020

Ovarian cancer is one of the most frequent carcinomas in females, and the occurrence rate is still rising despite many advances made. The pathogenesis of ovarian cancer remains greatly unclear. Here, we investigated the mechanisms of ovarian cancer, with the focus on circATRNL1. Human ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines were used to examine levels of circATRNL1, miR‐378, Smad4, AKT, and other proliferation‐related and migration‐related proteins. Cellular assays were used to determine cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. We validated the interactions of circATRNL1/miR‐378 and miR‐378/Smad4, and a mouse tumor xenograft model was employed to assess the effect of circATRNL1 on tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. We found that circATRNL1 was decreased while miR‐378 was increased in human ovarian cancer tissues and cells. circATRNL1 bound to miR‐378 while miR‐378 directly targeted Smad4. Overexpression of circATRNL1 or knockdown of miR‐378 suppressed angiogenesis and ovarian cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration via decreasing proliferation‐ and migration‐related proteins via miR‐378 or Smad4, respectively. Overexpression of circATRNL1 restrained ovarian cancer growth and abdominal metastasis in vivo. Our findings indicate that circATRNL1 acts as a miR‐378 sponge to active Smad4 signaling and suppresses angiogenesis and ovarian cancer metastasis.
A cluster RCT to improve workplace mental health in a policing context: Findings of a mixed‐methods implementation evaluation
Authors: LaMontagne Anthony D. , Martin Angela J. , Page Kathryn M. , Papas Alicia , Reavley Nicola J. , Noblet Andrew J. , Milner Allison J. , Keegel Tessa , Allisey Amanda , Witt Katrina , Smith Peter M.
Published: December 2020

Background

We conducted a cluster randomized trial of a workplace mental health intervention in an Australian police department. The intervention was co‐designed and co‐implemented with the police department. Intervention elements included tailored mental health literacy training for all members of participating police stations, and a leadership development and coaching program for station leaders. This study presents the results of a mixed‐methods implementation evaluation of the trial.

Methods

Descriptive quantitative analyses characterized the extent of participation in intervention activities, complemented by a qualitative descriptive analysis of transcripts of 60 semistructured interviews with 53 persons and research team field notes.

Results

Participation rates in the multicomponent leadership development activities were highly variable, ranging from <10% to approximately 60% across stations. Approximately 50% of leaders and <50% of troops completed the mental health literacy training component of the intervention. Barriers to implementation included rostering challenges, high staff turnover and changes, competing work commitments, staff shortages, limited internal personnel resources to deliver the mental health literacy training, organizational cynicism, confidentiality concerns, and limited communication about the intervention by station command or station champions. Facilitators of participation were also identified, including perceived need for and benefits of the intervention, engagement at various levels, the research team's ability to create buy‐in and manage stakeholder relationships, and the use of external, credible leadership development coaches.

Conclusions

Implementation fell far short of expectations. The identified barriers and facilitators should be considered in the design and implementation of similar workplace mental health interventions.
Understanding racism in physical (biological) anthropology
Authors: Blakey Michael L.
Published: December 2020

The mainstream of American physical anthropology began as racist and eugenical science that defended slavery, restricted “non‐Nordic” immigration, and justified Jim Crow segregation. After World War II, the field became more anti‐racial than anti‐racist. It has continued as a study of natural influences on human variation and thus continues to evade the social histories of inequitable biological variation. Also reflecting its occupancy of white space, biological anthropology continues to deny its own racist history and marginalizes the contributions of Blacks. Critical disciplinary history and a shift toward biocultural studies might begin an anti‐racist human biology.
Advanced Nanobiomedical Approaches to Combat Coronavirus Disease of 2019
Authors: Lutz Halle , Popowski Kristen D. , Dinh Phuong-Uyen C. , Cheng Ke
Published: December 2020

New infectious diseases are making themselves known as the human population grows, expands into new regions, and becomes more dense, increasing contact with each other and animal populations. Ease of travel has also increased infectious disease transmission and has now culminated into a global pandemic. The emergence of the novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in December 2019 has already infected over 83.7 million people and caused over 1.8 million deaths. While there have been vaccine candidates produced and supportive care implemented, the world is impatiently waiting for a commercially approved vaccine and treatment for the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19). The different vaccine types investigated for the prevention of COVID‐19 all have great promise but face safety obstacles that must be first addressed. Some vaccine candidates of key interest are whole inactivated viruses, adeno‐associated viruses, virus‐like particles, and lipid nanoparticles. This review examines nanobiomedical techniques for combatting COVID‐19 in terms of vaccines and therapeutics.
Dodecameric Anion‐Sealed Capsules based on Pyrogallol[5]arenes and Resorcin[5]arenes
Authors: Chwastek Monika , Cmoch Piotr , Szumna Agnieszka
Published: December 2020

The paper reports formation of exceptionally large capsular species (diameter of c. a. 30 Å) by interactions of polyphenolic macrocycles with 5‐fold symmetry with anions. Pyrogallol[5]arenes and resorcin[5]arenes interact with anions via hydrogen bonds involving phenolic OH groups or aromatic CH groups. Based on NMR titration experiments, diffusion coefficients, and geometric requirements, it is postulated that the capsules have (P5H)12(X−)60 or (R5H)12(X−)60 stoichiometry and a unique geometry of one of the Platonic solids—a dodecahedron. The capsules exist in THF and in benzene, but not in chloroform, reflecting competitive effects in the solvation of anions. It is also demonstrated that mechanochemical pre‐treatment (dry‐milling) of solid samples is indispensable to initialize self‐assembly in benzene.
Unveiling the In Situ Dissolution and Polymerization of Mo in Ni4Mo Alloy for Promoting the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Du Wei , Shi Yanmei , Zhou Wei , Yu Yifu , Zhang Bin
Published: December 2020

NiMo alloys are efficient electrocatalysts in alkaline water electrolyzer for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Metals are usually considered to be stable during the cathodic process. However, the actual behaviors of Mo in the NiMo alloys are unexplored. Here, we present the instability of Mo in the Ni4Mo alloy as a highly efficient HER electrocatalyst in an alkaline medium. Mo in Ni4Mo is oxidized and dissolved in the form of MoO42− first. The dissolved MoO42− will re‐adsorb on the electrode surface and polymerize. Theoretical calculations indicate that the adsorption of the dimer Mo2O72− can promote the HER activity of metal Ni. The addition of MoO42− to the electrolyte can not only repair the durability of Ni4Mo alloy, but also facilitate the HER activity of pure metal of Ni, Fe, and Co. Our findings provide insight into the structural transformation mechanism and performance‐enhanced origin of cathodic materials under the reaction conditions.
Metallfreie, elektrochemische Synthese von Sulfonamiden direkt aus (Hetero)arenen, SO2 und Aminen
Authors: Blum Stephan P. , Karakaya Tarik , Schollmeyer Dieter , Klapars Artis , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: December 2020

Sulfonamide gehören zu den wichtigsten funktionellen Gruppen in Pharmazeutika und Agrochemikalien. Es gibt jedoch keine Methode, um die Sulfonamidgruppe direkt in eine nicht vorfunktionalisierte aromatische Verbindung einzuführen. Wir stellen hier das erste dehydrierende elektrochemische Verfahren zur Synthese von Sulfonamiden vor, indem die inhärente Reaktivität von (Hetero)arenen in einer hochkonvergenten Reaktion mit SO2 und Aminen über ein Amidosulfinat‐Zwischenprodukt genutzt wird. Das Amidosulfinat fungiert in einer Doppelrolle als Reaktant und Leitsalz. Die direkte anodische Oxidation der aromatischen Verbindung initiiert die Umsetzung, gefolgt von einem nukleophilen Angriff des Amidosulfinats. Bordotierter‐Diamant (BDD)‐Elektroden und ein HFIP/MeCN‐Lösungsmittelgemisch ermöglichen die selektive Bildung der Sulfonamide. Insgesamt werden 36 Beispiele mit Ausbeuten von bis zu 85 % aufgeführt.
Rotation‐restricted strategy to synthesize high molecular weight polyethylene using iminopyridyl nickel and palladium catalyst
Authors: Peng Hongwei , Li Shuaikang , Li Gen , Dai Shengyu , Ji Mingjun , Liu Zhe , Guo Lihua
Published: December 2020

Most of the iminopyridyl Ni (II) and Pd (II) catalysts are reported to oligomerize ethylene or yield very low molecular weight polyethylene. Moreover, the molecular weight of product is not sensitive to ligand sterics. In this contribution, we demonstrate that the bulky rotation‐restricted substituents incorporated into iminopyridyl Ni (II) and Pd (II) catalysts that provide the right orientation are highly effective in retarding the chain transfer. Thus, (2,6‐bis(10,11‐dihydro‐5H‐dibenzo[a,d][7]annulen‐5‐yl)‐4‐methylphenyl)‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)methanimine nickel (II) bromide (Ni3) and (2,6‐bis(10,11‐dihydro‐5H‐dibenzo[a,d][7]annulen‐5‐yl)‐4‐methylphenyl)‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)methanimine palladium (II) methyl chloride (Pd3) with the phenyl substituents fixed in the diarylmethyl moiety produce polyethylene or functionalized polyethylene (ethylene‐MA copolymer) with high Mn values up to 2.5 × 104 g mol−1, while allowing the high MA incorporation (3.2%–13.8%). In addition, the effects on the (co)polymerization behavior as a function of rotation‐restricted substituent variations (free rotation, restricted rotation and fixation) were systemically studied. As a result, various molecular weight polyethylene and ethylene‐MA copolymer with high MA incorporation ratio were also obtained in this system.
Application of flying jet plasma for amelioration of polyvinylidene fluoride membrane properties towards enhanced membrane distillation
Authors: Abdul‐Majeed Wameath S.
Published: December 2020

This study explored the feasibility of applying sequential argon‐CF4 plasmas treatment as a featured approach towards enhancement of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane structure and surface topography for application in membrane distillation (MD). Systematic procedures were conducted to synthesize membranes of different combinations composed mainly from PVDF and assisted by addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) at different percentages. Upon casting four classes of the membranes, the analysis results via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐Ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), as well as the contact angle measurements have shown that the membrane surface topography was mediated in terms of appearance of clear bumps on the surface. Upon implementing the sequential treatment cycles for several durations, the surface topography has considerably changed at the end of argon treatment cycle in terms of appearance of pores at small size. Further changes on the surface topography were detected at the end of CF4 treatment cycle elucidated by increase in the pore size and uniform distribution of the pores along the examined membranes. The function of the sequential plasma treatment was become certain upon implementing MD experiments for dilute solution of ethanol/water, in which higher permeation water flux and permeate separation index were observed for membranes of higher PVP content and sequentially treated for 6 min.
How do multilingual users search? An investigation of query and result list language choices
Authors: Steichen Ben , Lowe Ryan
Published: December 2020

Many users of search systems are multilingual, that is, they are proficient in two or more languages. In order to better understand and support the language preferences and behaviors of such multilingual users, this paper presents a series of five large‐scale studies that specifically elicit language choices regarding search queries and result lists. Overall, the results from the studies indicate that users frequently make use of different languages (i.e., not just their primary language), especially when they are provided with choices (e.g., when provided with a secondary language query or result list choice). In particular, when presented with a mixed‐language list choice, participants choose this option to an almost equal extent compared to primary‐language‐only lists. Important factors leading to language choices are user‐, task‐ and system‐related, including proficiency, task topic, and result layout. Moreover, participants' subjective reasons for making particular choices indicate that their primary language is considered more comfortable, that the secondary language often has more relevant and trustworthy results, and that mixed‐language lists provide a better overview. These results provide crucial insights into multilingual user preferences and behaviors, and may help in the design of systems that can better support the querying and result exploration of multilingual users.
Nature of Alkali‐ and Coinage‐Metal Bonds versus Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Larrañaga Olatz , Arrieta Ana , Fonseca Guerra Célia , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , de Cózar Abel
Published: December 2020

We have quantum chemically studied the structure and nature of alkali‐ and coinage‐metal bonds (M‐bonds) versus that of hydrogen bonds between A−M and B−in archetypal [A−M⋅⋅⋅B]−model systems (A, B=F, Cl and M=H, Li, Na, Cu, Ag, Au), using relativistic density functional theory at ZORA‐BP86‐D3/TZ2P. We find that coinage‐metal bonds are stronger than alkali‐metal bonds which are stronger than the corresponding hydrogen bonds. Our main purpose is to understand how and why the structure, stability and nature of such bonds are affected if the monovalent central atom H of hydrogen bonds is replaced by an isoelectronic alkali‐ or coinage‐metal atom. To this end, we have analyzed the bonds between A−M and B−using the activation strain model, quantitative Kohn‐Sham molecular orbital (MO) theory, energy decomposition analysis (EDA), and Voronoi deformation density (VDD) analysis of the charge distribution.
Hybrid robust output tracker design for sampled‐data systems using digital redesign of sliding mode control
Authors: Fang Jiunn‐Shiou , Tsai Jason Sheng‐Hong , Yan Jun‐Juh , Huang Chiao‐Hsin , Guo Shu‐Mei
Published: December 2020

This paper is mainly concerned with the design of a hybrid robust output tracker for a class of systems with a direct feed‐through term and bounded matched nonlinear disturbances. First, we present a continuous‐time linear quadratic analog tracker (LQAT) based on sliding mode control (SMC), and the existence of sliding manifold is guaranteed with the proposed controller in the continuous‐time domain. After designing the continuous‐time SMC‐based tracker, a digital redesign approach using Euler's approximation method is newly proposed to directly obtain a discrete‐time SMC‐based tracker from the continuous‐time SMC‐based tracker, and the hitting condition is also satisfied such that the existence of sliding manifold is guaranteed in the hybrid controlled systems. Therefore, the output tracking performance with the proposed discrete‐time SMC‐based tracker can be also satisfied as the continuous‐time SMC‐based tracker. Illustrative examples are given to demonstrate the success of the proposed digital‐redesign‐based SMC algorithm.
Fear Potentiated Startle in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Association With Anxiety Symptoms and Amygdala Volume
Authors: Hessl David , Libero Lauren , Schneider Andrea , Kerns Connor , Winder‐Patel Breanna , Heath Brianna , Lee Joshua , Coleman Cory , Sharma Natasha , Solomon Marjorie , Nordahl Christine Wu , Amaral David G.
Published: December 2020

Atypical responses to fearful stimuli and the presence of various forms of anxiety are commonly seen in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The fear potentiated startle paradigm (FPS), which has been studied both in relation to anxiety and as a probe for amygdala function, was carried out in 97 children aged 9–14 years including 48 (12 female) with ASD and 49 (14 female) with typical development (TD). In addition, exploratory analyses were conducted examining the association between FPS and amygdala volume as assessed with magnetic resonance imaging in a subset of the children with ASD with or without an anxiety disorder with available MRI data. While the startle latency was increased in the children with ASD, there was no group difference in FPS. FPS was not significantly associated with traditional Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) or “autism distinct” forms of anxiety. Within the autism group, FPS was negatively correlated with amygdala volume. Multiple regression analyses revealed that the association between FPS and anxiety severity was significantly moderated by the size of the amygdala, such that the association between FPS and anxiety was significantly more positive in children with larger amygdalas than smaller amygdalas. These findings highlight the heterogeneity of emotional reactivity associated with ASD and the difficulties in establishing biologically meaningful probes of altered brain function.

Lay summary

Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have additional problems such as anxiety that can greatly impact their lives. How these co‐occurring symptoms develop is not well understood. We studied the amygdala, a region of the brain critical for processing fear and a laboratory method called fear potentiated startle for measuring fear conditioning, in children with ASD (with and without an anxiety disorder) and typically developing children. Results showed that the connection between fear conditioning and anxiety is dependent on the size of the amygdala in children with ASD.
Computational and spectroscopic studies of biologically active coumarin‐based fluorophores
Authors: S. Chandrasekhar , H.R. Deepa , Melavanki Raveendra , Basanagouda Mahanthesh M. , Mogurampelly Santosh , J Thipperudrappa
Published: December 2020

We used density functional theory (DFT) calculations to examine the various molecular properties of two coumarin derivatives, namely 4‐(5‐amino‐[1,3,4]thiadiazol‐2‐ylsulfanylmethyl)‐7‐methyl‐chromen‐2‐one and 4‐(5‐amino‐[1,3,4]thiadiazol‐2‐ylsulfanylmethyl)‐7‐methoxy‐chromen‐2‐one at different levels of theory and basis sets. The calculated highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energies revealed that the investigated molecules were chemically active with a tendency for molecular interactions. The theoretical vibrational frequencies of these molecules were found to be consistent with the experimentally obtained frequencies. Moreover, solvatochromic measurements indicated no significant change in absorption spectral peak by varying the polarity of solvent. Under the same conditions we found that there was a red shift of 39 nm in the fluorescence spectral peak with increase in solvent polarity. The solvatochromic data were used to estimate excited dipole moments and the change in dipole moment was interpreted based on resonance structure of molecules.
Method for the Rapid Screening of Drug Candidates Using Single‐Protein Tracking in a Living Cell
Authors: Kim Dong‐Kyun , Kim Young Sook , Kim Chan Sik , Lee Nam Ki
Published: December 2020

Screening drug candidates rapidly is the first step for developing new pharmaceutical drugs. One of the most promising ways to reduce the number of screening steps and cost is to directly use living cells for screening instead of using purified target proteins. Compounds screened using living cells will have increased biological activity compared to those screened with in vitro assays. Here, we report a robust method for screening drug candidates in living cells based on single‐protein imaging. We employed single‐protein tracking to observe the variation in the diffusion coefficient of membrane proteins treated with the candidate compounds. The diffusion coefficient shift was introduced as a criterion for selecting the potential candidate compounds. We tested three different membrane proteins, epidermal growth factor receptor, ErbB2, and ErbB3, and found effective natural compounds for each protein. The screening method we introduce will be widely used for screening potential drug candidates using living cells.
What drives environmental innovation? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Liao Zhongju , Liu Yan
Published: December 2020

To clarify the drivers of environmental innovation, this study selected 50 independent samples from 49 publications to investigate the effects of four major factors—policy, market, resource capacity, and organizational characteristics—on environmental innovation using a meta‐analysis, as well as demonstrating the moderating role of cultural background and industrial diversity. The results show that both environmental regulations and government subsidies positively promote environmental innovation and that cultural background and industrial diversity do play moderating roles in how environmental regulations impact environmental innovation. Furthermore, customer demand is also shown to have a positive impact on environmental innovation and is moderated by industrial diversity. However, market concentration is not shown to significantly affect environmental innovation. The results also show that knowledge sources, technological capabilities, organization's performance, and environmental management systems positively influence environmental innovation. Additionally, cultural background plays a moderating role between an organization's performance and environmental innovation, and industrial diversity can moderate technological capability and environmental innovation. Finally, the size of an organization is shown to positively affect environmental innovation and is also moderated by cultural background.
Exosomal mRNAs and lncRNAs involved in multiple myeloma resistance to bortezomib
Authors: Tang Ju‐xian , Chen Qi , Li Qin , He Yu‐han , Xiao Duan
Published: December 2020

The bone marrow microenvironment plays an essential role in multiple myeloma (MM) progression. We aimed to explore the alterations of levels of long noncoding RNAs and messenger RNAs (mRNAs), derived from exosomes in peripheral blood, in resistance to bortezomib (Btz) of MM patients. Peripheral blood samples were collected from five Btz‐resistant and five Btz‐sensitive MM patients. Exosomes in patients' peripheral blood were enriched, and the profiles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs in exosomes were determined using deep sequencing. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore biological function. MTS was employed to determine the viability of Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) 8226 and LP‐1 cells incubated with exosomes derived from Btz‐resistant patients. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to evaluate the levels of exosomal FFAR1, SP9, HIST1H2BG, and ITIH2. Incubation with Btz‐resistant patient‐derived exosomes significantly increased the viability of Btz‐treated RPMI 8226 and LP‐1 cells in a dose‐dependent manner. We identified 482 lncRNAs and 2099 mRNAs deregulated in exosomes of the Btz‐resistance group; and 78 mRNAs were enriched in DR‐related pathways, including mammalian target of rapamycin, platinum drug resistance, and the cAMP and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase–Akt signaling pathways. qPCR results verified the increases in FFAR1 and SP9 and decreases in HIST1H2BG and ITIH2 in Btz‐resistant patient‐derived exosomes. Moreover, exosomal FFAR1 and SP9 exhibited potential as independent prognostic indicators of survival of MM patients. Our study reveals significant dysregulation of exosomal RNA components in the Btz‐resistant group of MM patients as well as several mRNAs that may be used as biomarkers of prognosis of MM patients that are resistant to Btz.
Clinical impact of bifurcation angle change between diastole and systole in complex stenting for left main distal bifurcation: The Milan and New‐Tokyo (MITO) Registry
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Mitomo Satoru , Naganuma Toru , Takagi Kensuke , Obata Hiroaki , Chieffo Alaide , Montorfano Matteo , Nakamura Sunao , Colombo Antonio
Published: December 2020

Objectives

We assessed the impact of pre‐percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) bifurcation angle change (BAC) on clinical outcomes.

Background

There are little available data about the impact of BAC in unprotected left main distal bifurcation lesions (ULMD) PCI.

Methods

We identified consecutive 300 patients with ULMD underwent complex stenting using drug‐eluting stent in three high‐volume centers (Tokyo and Milan). We measured the widest BA of ULMD at both end‐diastole and end‐systole before stenting with two‐dimensional quantitative coronary angiographic assessment and calculated the BAC value as a difference of two BA value in each lesion. We divided them into small and large BAC group according to the median BAC value (7.2°). The primary endpoint was target lesion failure (TLF), which was defined as a composite of cardiac death, target lesion revascularization (TLR) and myocardial infarction.

Results

TLF rate at 3‐year was significantly higher in the large BAC group than in the small BAC group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 5.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.40–10.1; p < .001). TLR rate for left main (LM) to left anterior descending artery (LAD) and ostial left circumflex artery (LCXos) at 3‐year were significantly higher in large BAC group than in small BAC group (adjusted HR 5.91; 95% CI, 2.03–17.2; p = .001 and adjusted HR 10.6; 95% CI, 5.20–21.6; p < .001, respectively).

Conclusions

A large BAC before stenting is strongly associated with adverse events after complex stenting for ULMD, mainly driven by repeat PCI for restenosis of the LCXos and of the LM‐LAD.
Histobulin as a complementary but essential therapeutic for Intravenous Immune Globulin Therapy of Pfeiffer‐Weber‐Christian disease with multiple allergic diseases and its effects on allergic disease: A case report
Authors: Noh Geunwoong
Published: December 2020

Histobulin is complementary to IVIG therapy but is an essential therapeutic for PWCD. Histoublin is recommended not only in atopic dermatitis and multiple food allergies but also in patients with multiple allergic diseases.
The Relationship of William Henry Perkin, Jr. and Sir Robert Robinson: Teacher and Student, then Student and Teacher
Authors: Seeman Jeffrey I.
Published: December 2020

William Henry Perkin, Jr. FRS, the son of the inventor of mauve and other commercial dyes and credited for initiating the industrialization of chemistry, was himself a notable chemist. He was the Professor of Organic Chemistry at Manchester from 1892–1912 and then was the Waynflete Professor of Chemistry at Oxford and the first Head of the Dyson Perrins Laboratory from 1912–1929. One of Perkin's graduate students and research assistants at Manchester was Robert Robinson, subsequently Sir Robert Robinson, FRS and recipient of the 1947 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Perkin and Robinson had perhaps the most productive and broad collaboration between a professor and one's student. Together, during and after Robinson's student days, they had 71 joint publications, 25 of which involved just the two of them, 17 of which involved the structure determination of strychnine, and eight of which were published after Perkin's death in 1929. Upon Perkin's early death, Robinson succeeded him as the fourth Waynflete Professor of Chemistry at the Dyson Perrins Laboratory, Oxford University. This Essay will examine the professional relationship of Perkin, Jr. and Robinson as revealed in their joint publications on the structure of strychnine.
Chemical Bonding as a New Avenue for Controlling Excited‐State Properties and Excitation Energy‐Transfer Processes in Zinc Phthalocyanine–Fullerene Dyads
Authors: Li Zi‐Wen , Yang Jia‐Jia , Liu Xiang‐Yang , Fang Wei‐Hai , Wang Haobin , Cui Ganglong
Published: December 2020

Whether chemical bonding can regulate the excited‐state and optoelectronic properties of donor–acceptor dyads has been largely elusive. In this work, we used electronic structure and nonadiabatic dynamics methods to explore the excited‐state properties of covalently bonded zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc)‐fullerene (C60) dyads with a 6–6 (or 5–6) bonding configuration in which ZnPc is bonded to two carbon atoms shared by the two hexagonal rings (or a pentagonal and a hexagonal ring) in C60. In both cases, the locally excited (LE) states on ZnPc are spectroscopically bright. However, their different chemical bonding differentiates the electronic interactions between ZnPc and C60. In the 5–6 bonding configuration, the LE states on ZnPc are much higher in energy than the LE states on C60. Thus, the excitation energy transfer from ZnPc to C60 is thermodynamically favorable. On the other hand, in the 6–6 bonding configuration, such a process is inhibited because the LE states on ZnPc are the lowest ones. More detailed mechanisms are elucidated from nonadiabatic dynamics simulations. In the 6–6 bonding configuration, no excitation energy transfer was observed. In contrast, in the 5–6 bonding configuration, several LE and charge‐transfer (CT) excitons were shown to participate in the energy‐transfer process. Further analysis reveals that the photoinduced energy transfer is mediated by a CT exciton, such that electron‐ and hole‐transfer processes take place in a concerted but asynchronous manner in the excitation energy transfer. It is also found that high‐level electronic structure methods including exciton effects are indispensable to accurately describe photoinduced energy‐ and electron‐transfer processes. Furthermore, this work opens up new avenues for regulating the excited‐state properties of molecular donor–acceptor dyads by means of chemical bonding.
Acquired von Willebrand syndrome and factor VIII in patients with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair
Authors: Meindl Christine , Paulus Michael , Koller Theresia , Rogalski Dominik , Hamerle Michael , Schach Christian , Buchner Stefan , Zeman Florian , Maier Lars S. , Debl Kurt , Unsöld Bernhard , Birner Christoph
Published: December 2020

Background and Hypothesis

The acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AvWS), which predisposes to bleeding events, is often related to valvular heart diseases. We investigated possible implications of AvWS and factor VIII levels in patients with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation (MR) undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR).

Methods and Results

123 patients with moderate to severe MR were prospectively enrolled. Complete measurements of von Willebrand Factor activity (vWFAct), von Willebrand Factor antigen (vWFAg), and factor VIII expression before and 4 weeks after TMVR were available in 85 patients. At baseline, seven patients had a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, two patients suffered bleeding events during their hospital stay, and one patient had a bleeding 4 weeks after TMVR. Even though vWFAct, vWFAct/vWFAg ratio and vWFAg values did not change after TMVR, we observed a significantly lower vWFAct/vWFAg ratio in patients with primary MR as compared to patients with secondary MR both at baseline (p = 0.022) and 4 weeks following the TMVR procedure (p = 0.003). Additionally, patients with a mean mitral valve gradient ≥4 mmHg after TMVR had significantly lower vWFAct/vWFAg ratios as compared to patients with a mean mitral valve gradient <4 mmHg (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

MR of primary etiology was associated with lower vWFAct/vWFAg ratio, hinting toward HMWM loss due to shear stress caused by eccentric regurgitation jets. In addition, morphological changes leading to postprocedural transmitral gradients ≥4 mmHg were related to lower vWFAct/vWFAg ratio 4 weeks after the procedure. Alterations of the vWFAct/vWFAg ratio in turn did not translate into a greater risk for bleeding events.
Best practices for the development, analytical validation and clinical implementation of flow cytometric methods for chimeric antigen receptor T cell analyses
Authors: Sarikonda Ghanashyam , Mathieu Mélissa , Natalia Mahwish , Pahuja Anil , Xue Qiong , Pierog Piotr L. , Trampont Paul C. , Decman Vilma , Reynolds Susan , Hanafi Laïla‐Aïcha , Sun Yongliang S. , Eck Steven , Hedrick Michael N. , Stewart Jennifer J. , Tangri Shabnam , Litwin Virginia , Dakappagari Naveen
Published: December 2020

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cells are recognized as efficacious therapies with demonstrated ability to produce durable responses in blood cancer patients. Regulatory approvals and acceptance of these unique therapies by patients and reimbursement agencies have led to a significant increase in the number of next generation CAR T clinical trials. Flow cytometry is a powerful tool for comprehensive profiling of individual CAR T cells at multiple stages of clinical development, from product characterization during manufacturing to longitudinal evaluation of the infused product in patients. There are unique challenges with regard to the development and validation of flow cytometric methods for CAR T cells; moreover, the assay requirements for manufacturing and clinical monitoring differ. Based on the collective experience of the authors, this recommendation paper aims to review these challenges and present approaches to address them. The discussion focuses on describing key considerations for the design, optimization, validation and implementation of flow cytometric methods during the clinical development of CAR T cell therapies.
Suicide attempts among people with eating disorders and adverse childhood experiences: Results from a nationally representative sample of adults
Authors: Forrest Lauren N. , Grilo Carlos M. , Udo Tomoko
Published: December 2020

Objective

People with eating disorders (EDs) have elevated rates of suicide attempts. A need exists to identify factors that help predict which people with EDs might be at greater risk for suicidal behavior. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with both EDs and with suicide attempts. Thus, the current study examined whether having histories of ACEs and EDs augments lifetime risk for suicide attempts.

Method

This study included 36,146 adult participants in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions‐III who completed structured diagnostic interviews and answered questions regarding ACEs and suicide attempts. Weighted means, frequencies, and cross‐tabulations were computed for prevalence of ACEs and suicide attempts by ED diagnosis. Multiple logistic regression was used to compare risk of lifetime suicide attempts by ED diagnosis and ACE history.

Results

Prevalence of ACEs among people with EDs was 54.1–67.8%. ACE history and ED diagnosis were associated with elevated odds of experiencing a lifetime suicide attempt (AORs = 4.64–6.45 and 3.20–4.06, respectively). There was no ACE history‐by‐ED interaction on risk of suicide attempt, regardless of forms of EDs.

Discussion

ACEs are common among people with EDs and associated significantly with suicide attempts, but ACEs and EDs do not appear to interact to augment risk for suicide attempts. Considering ACE exposure in theoretical models of suicidal behavior in people with and without EDs and in suicide risk assessment and management with people with EDs may prove useful.
As old as the hills: Pliocene palaeogeographical processes influence patterns of genetic structure in the widespread, common shrub Banksia sessilis
Authors: Nistelberger Heidi Maria , Tapper Sarah‐Louise , Coates David J. , McArthur Shelley L. , Byrne Margaret
Published: December 2020

The impact of Quaternary glaciation on the development of phylogeographic structure in plant species is well documented. In unglaciated landscapes, phylogeographic patterns tend to reflect processes relating to persistence and stochasticity, yet other factors, associated with the palaeogeographical history of the landscape, including geomorphological events, can also have a significant influence. The unglaciated landscape of south‐western Western Australia is an ideal location to observe these ancient drivers of lineage diversification, with tectonic activity associated with the Darling Fault in the late Pliocene attributed to patterns of deep phylogeographic divergence in a widespread tree from this region. Interestingly, other species within this region have not shown this pattern and this palaeogeographical boundary therefore presents an opportunity to examine age and historical distribution of plant species endemic to this region. In this study, we assess patterns of genetic diversity and structure across 28 populations of the widespread shrub Banksia sessilis using three cpDNA markers and nine nuclear microsatellite markers. Sixteen cpDNA haplotypes were identified, comprising two major chloroplast DNA lineages that are estimated to have diverged in the Pliocene, approximately 3.3 million years ago. This timing coincides with major geomorphological processes in the landscape, including the separation of the Darling Plateau from the adjacent Swan Coastal Plain, as well as eustatic changes on the Swan Coastal Plain that are likely to have resulted in the physical isolation of historical plant lineages. Chloroplast lineages were broadly aligned with populations associated with older lateritic soils of the Darling Plateau and Geraldton sandplains or the younger sandy soils associated with the Swan Coastal Plain and Southern Coastline. This structural pattern of lateritic versus non‐lateritic division was not observed in the nuclear microsatellite data that identified three genetic clades that roughly corresponded to populations in the North, South, and Central portions of the distributions.