bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco‐friendly synthesis of ZnO nanorods using Cycas pschannae plant extract with excellent photocatalytic, antioxidant, and anticancer nanomedicine for lung cancer treatment
Authors: Sudha Kattakgoundar Govindaraj , Ali Saheb , Karunakaran Gopalu , Kowsalya Mariyappan , Kolesnikov Evgeny , Rajeshkumar Mohan Prasanna
Published: January 2020

The tunable ZnO nanorods (NRs) are produced due to the phytochemicals present in Cycas pschannae leaves which act as reducing and stabilizing agents. The confirmations of the ZnO NRs were validated using different characterization techniques: X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET), scanning electron microscopy–Energy Dispersive X‐Ray Analysis (EDX), UV–visible spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The ZnO NRs show unique surface area and low particle size. Photocatalytic activity was measured and found to be 50.75% at low concentrations and 78.33% at high concentrations. The antioxidant activity of the ZnO NRs also showed promising results for their use in free radical scavenging. In vitro toxicity studies using zebrafish embryos was performed to evaluate the toxic nature of it and the obtained result confirmed its non‐toxic nature. In addition, ZnO anticancer potential was verified using the A549 lung cancer cell line. Cytotoxic assessments of ZnO NRs were performed via 2,3‐bis‐(2‐methoxy‐4‐nitro‐5‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium‐5‐carboxanilide (XTT), 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT), and neutral red uptake assays to examine the cell death cycle on the A549 lung cancer cell. Dose‐dependent apoptosis and necrosis were confirmed by Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. It was also confirmed that ZnO NRs induce Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis inside cancer (A549) cells via different intrinsic gene expression. Thus, based on this research it is evident that an effective ecofriendly, nontoxic potential anticancer drug can be synthesized using C. pschannae leaf extract.
Highly dispersed Mn2O3−Co3O4 nanostructures on carbon matrix as heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalyst
Authors: Hazarika Kumar Kashyap , Talukdar Hiya , Sudarsanam Putla , Bhargava Suresh K. , Bharali Pankaj
Published: January 2020

This work reports the synthesis of various carbon (Vulcan XC‐72 R) supported metal oxide nanostructures, such as Mn2O3, Co3O4 and Mn2O3−Co3O4 as heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalysts for the degradation of organic dye pollutants, namely Rhodamine B (RB) and Congo Red (CR) in wastewater. The activity results showed that the bimetallic Mn2O3−Co3O4/C catalyst exhibits much higher activity than the monometallic Mn2O3/C and Co3O4/C catalysts for the degradation of both RB and CR pollutants, due to the synergistic properties induced by the Mn−Co and/or Mn (Co)−support interactions. The degradation efficiency of RB and CR was considerably increased with an increase of reaction temperature from 25 to 45°C. Importantly, the bimetallic Mn2O3−Co3O4/C catalyst could maintain its catalytic activity up to five successive cycles, revealing its catalytic durability for wastewater purification. The structure–activity correlations demonstrated a probable mechanism for the degradation of organic dye pollutants in wastewater, involving •OH radical as well as Mn2+/Mn3+ or Co2+/Co3+ redox couple of the Mn2O3−Co3O4/C catalyst.
A Schiff base colorimetric chemosensor for CN‐ ion and its dioxidomolybdenum (VI) complexes: Evaluation of structural aspects and optoelectronic properties
Authors: Asha T. M. , Shiju E , Keloth Chandrasekharan , Kurup M.R. Prathapachandra
Published: January 2020

Six new cis‐dioxidomolybdenum(VI) complexes featured with a tridentate ONO donor Schiff base derived from salicylidene‐2‐aminophenolato backbone have been synthesised and characterised by elemental analysis, spectroscopic techniques (like IR, UV‐vis and 1H‐NMR) and cyclic voltammetry. Suitable single crystals of the parent complex [MoO2L(MeOH)]2·H2O (1) was obtained by the slow evaporation of the mother liquor, whereas the crystals of the complexes 2‐6 were grown in coordinating solvents like ethanol, DMF, DMSO etc. and were characterised by single crystal X‐ray diffraction as monomers stabilised by the solvent molecules used for the recrystallization purpose. The structures of the complexes were further quantified using Hirshfeld surface analysis. The Schiff base acts as a colorimetric chemosensor for CN‐ ions in DMSO solution. The receptor‐CN‐ ion interaction and the sensing mechanism of the chemosensor were verified by colorimetric, UV‐vis, 1H‐NMR and FT‐IR spectroscopic studies. Hydroxyl moiety present in the receptor function as the binding site for cyanide ion thereby leading to its optical discrimination in presence of other anions by producing a visible colour change from colourless to yellow. Therefore the Schiff base sensor portrays estimable selectivity and sensitivity towards CN‐ ion. Additionally the Schiff base as well as the molybdenum complexes exhibit good third order non‐linear optical properties and optical power limiting when analysed by the Z‐scan technique.
Sex‐biased gene expression in antennae of Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Ahn Seung‐Joon , Oh Hyun‐Woo , Corcoran Jacob , Kim Ji‐Ae , Park Kye‐Chung , Park Chung Gyoo , Choi Man‐Yeon
Published: January 2020

Drosophila suzukii differs from other members of the genus Drosophila in its host preference and oviposition behavior. The flies are attracted to ripening fruits, and females have a serrated ovipositor enabling eggs to be laid inside the fruit. In addition to its huge economic impact, its unique chemoecological, morphological, and physiological characteristics have garnered considerable research interests. In this study, we analyzed D. suzukii antennal transcriptomes to identify sex‐biased genes by comparison of differential gene expressions between male antennae (MA) and female antennae (FA). Among 13,583 total genes of the fly genome, 11,787 genes were expressed in either MA or FA. There are only 132 genes (9 in MA, 7 in FA, and 116 in both, FPKM >1) were expressed in antennae exclusively, and 2,570 genes (9 in MA, 0 in FA, and 2,561 in both) were enriched in antennae containing 185 and 113 sex‐biased genes in MA and FA, respectively. Interestingly, many immune‐related genes were highly expressed in MA, whereas several chemosensory genes were at high rank in FA. We identified 27 sex‐biased chemosensory genes including odorant and gustatory receptors, odorant‐binding proteins, chemosensory proteins, ionotropic receptors, and cytochrome P450s, and validated the gene expressions using quantitative real‐time PCR. The highly expressed sex‐biased genes in antennae are likely involved in the fly specific mating, host‐finding behaviors, or sex‐specific functions. The molecular results demonstrated here will facilitate to find the unique chemoreception of D. suzukii, as well as on the development of new management strategies for this pest.
A new sensitive and subunit‐selective molecular tool for investigating protein kinase A in the brain
Authors: Ribaudo Giovanni , Zagotto Giuseppe , Ongaro Alberto , Ricci Antonio , Caretta Antonio , Mucignat‐Caretta Carla
Published: January 2020

Despite cellular complexity, a limited number of small molecules act as intracellular second messengers. Protein kinase A (PKA) is the main transducer of the information carried by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Recently, cellular imaging has achieved major technical advancements, although the search for more specific and sensitive low‐molecular‐weight probes to explore subcellular events involving second messengers is still in progress. The convergent synthesis of a novel, fluorescent small molecule comprising the cAMP structure and a rhodamine‐based fluorescent residue, connected through a flexible linker, is described here. The interaction motif of this compound with PKA was investigated in silico using a blind docking approach, comparing its theoretical binding energy with the one calculated for cAMP. Moreover, the predicted pharmacokinetic properties were also computed and discussed. The new probe was tested on three areas of the mouse central nervous system (parietal cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellar cortex) with different fixation methods demonstrating remarkable selectivity towards the PKA RIα subunit. The probe showed overall better performances when compared to other commercially available fluorescent cAMP analogues, acting at lower concentrations, and providing stable labeling.
Fusion of geophysical images in the study of archaeological sites
Authors: Karamitrou Alexandra , Bogiatzis Petros , Tsokas Gregory N.
Published: January 2020

In the last few years, the idea of combining images, called image fusion, appeared and it has become a critical area of research and development. Image fusion can be defined as the process of combining images, taken from the same scene and create one single image containing all the essential information of the original images. A single sensor is not always sufficient. Different sensors, effective in different environmental conditions, provide different information of a scene. The underlying idea in this article is to combine geophysical images taken with different sensors, from the same location, aiming to improve the detectability of possible archaeological targets. Three different fusion approaches were used; fusion by calculating the average of the individual images, and through the use of wavelet and curvelet transforms. Furthermore, taking advantage of the curvelet domain we exploit possible prior angle information to enhance the angles where the remnants are expected. We applied the methods in seven different pairs of geophysical images taken from two different archaeological areas. In all cases the fused images produced significantly better results than each of the original geophysical images separately.
Strongly magnetized quantum vacuum and ferromagnetic phase transition
Authors: Pérez Rojas Hugo , Rodríguez Querts Elizabeth
Published: January 2020

Quantum vacuum in large fields of the order of twice or greater than the critical Schwinger field 2Bc shows strong anisotropic properties: virtual photons as well as electrons and positrons tend to propagate in a parallel direction to the magnetic field. The photon self‐energy acquires an imaginary part, which suggests an instability. In order to overcome this anisotropic behavior, we propose an heuristic model based on fermion pairing of boson‐vacuum n in the form of virtual para‐positronium, a chiral noninvariant electron‐positron bound state leading to a ferromagnetic quantum phase transition of the vacuum for fields of order of twice the critical Schwinger field 2Bc.
Far from Inert: Membrane Lipids Possess Intrinsic Reactivity That Has Consequences for Cell Biology
Authors: Sanderson John M.
Published: January 2020

In this article, it is hypothesized that a fundamental chemical reactivity exists between some non‐lipid constituents of cellular membranes and ester‐based lipids, the significance of which is not generally recognized. Many peptides and smaller organic molecules have now been shown to undergo lipidation reactions in model membranes in circumstances where direct reaction with the lipid is the only viable route for acyl transfer. Crucially, drugs like propranolol are lipidated in vivo with product profiles that are comparable to those produced in vitro. Some compounds have also been found to promote lipid hydrolysis. Drugs with high lytic activity in vivo tend to have higher toxicity in vitro. Deacylases and lipases are proposed as key enzymes that protect cells against the effects of intrinsic lipidation. The toxic effects of intrinsic lipidation are hypothesized to include a route by which nucleation can occur during the formation of amyloid fibrils.
Spectrofluorimetric study on fluorescence quenching of tyrosine and l‐tryptophan by the aniracetam cognition enhancer drug: quenching mechanism using Stern–Volmer and double‐log plots
Authors: Hassan Said Abd El‐Monem , Ahmed Soheir Abd El‐Fatah , Helmy Aya Hosam , Youssef Nadia Fayek
Published: January 2020

A novel approach on fluorescence quenching of tyrosine and l‐tryptophan is presented for spectrofluorimetric determination of aniracetam in drug substances and products. The quenching mechanism was investigated using Stern–Volmer plots and ultraviolet spectra figures of quencher–fluorophore mixtures. Binding constant and stoichiometry were calculated using double‐log plots. The spectrofluorimetric method was optimized for the experimental conditions affecting fluorescence quenching including fluorophore concentration, diluent, and reaction time. Moreover, the pH‐rate profile of aniracetam was studied using simple kinetics and found to be stable within the pH range 5–8. Fluorescence quenching of tyrosine and l‐tryptophan were observed on addition of aniracetam in aqueous medium at pH 5.5–6.5. Aniracetam quenched the fluorescence of tyrosine and l‐tryptophan in the concentration range 1–20 μg/ml and 0.3–20 μg/ml, respectively, with binomial relationships between quenching values (ΔF) and aniracetam concentration. Limits of detection were found to be 0.10 μg/ml for tyrosine–aniracetam and 0.14 μg/ml for l‐tryptophan–aniracetam. Method validation was performed as per ICH guidelines and demonstrated that the developed spectrofluorimetric method was accurate, precise, specific, and suitable for analysis of aniracetam in routine quality control laboratories. All experimental materials and solvents used are eco‐friendly, indicating that the cited spectrofluorimetric procedure is an excellent green method.
Multiparametric Analysis of Tissue Spheroids Fabricated from Different Types of Cells
Authors: Koudan Elizaveta V. , Gryadunova Anna A. , Karalkin Pavel A. , Korneva Janetta V. , Meteleva Nina Y. , Babichenko Igor I. , Volkov Aleksey V. , Rodionov Sergey A. , Parfenov Vladislav A. , Pereira Frederico D. A. S. , Khesuani Yusef D. , Mironov Vladimir A. , Bulanova Elena A.
Published: January 2020

Reproducible, scalable, and cost effective fabrication and versatile characterization of tissue spheroids (TS) is highly demanded by 3D bioprinting and drug discovery. Consistent geometry, defined mechanical properties, optimal viability, appropriate extracellular matrix/cell organization are required for cell aggregates aimed for application in these fields. A straightforward procedure for fabrication and systematic multiparametric characterization of TS with defined properties and uniform predictable geometry employing non‐adhesive technology is suggested. Applying immortalized and primary cells, the reproducibility of spheroid generation, the strong correlation of ultimate spheroid diameter, and growth pattern with cell type and initial seeding concentration are demonstrated. Spheroids viability and mechanical properties are governed by cell derivation. In this study, a new decision procedure to apply for any cell type one starts to work with to prepare and typify TS meeting high quality standards in biofabrication and drug discovery is suggested.
Ecological insights into the underlying evolutionary patterns of biofilm formation from biological wastewater treatment systems: Red or Black Queen Hypothesis?
Authors: Yuan Shasha , Meng Fangang
Published: January 2020

Interspecies interactions and phylogenetic distances were studied to reveal the underlying evolutionary adaptations of biofilms sourced from wastewater treatment processes. Based on 380 pairwise cocultures of 40 strains from two microbial aggregates (surface‐attached and mobile aggregates [flocs]) at two substrate concentrations (LB broth and 0.1× LB broth), interspecies interactions were explored using biofilm classification schemes. There was a strong source‐dependence of biofilm development formed by the monocultures, that is, a higher biofilm formation potential for strains from attached aggregates than for those from sludge flocs at both substrate concentrations. Interestingly, the results showed that total biofilm reduction was dominant in the dual‐species biofilm sourced from flocs in both LB broth (67.37%) and 0.1× LB broth (64.21%), indicating high interspecific competition in mobile aggregates and the independence of substrate concentrations. However, biofilm reduction was higher (33.68%) than induction (19.37%) for the biofilms formed by surface‐attached aggregates in LB broth, while the opposite trend was apparent in 0.1× LB broth, suggesting the occurrence of indeterministic processes for biofilm formation and important roles of substrate concentrations. In addition, the more closely related phylogenetic relationships of cocultures from mobile aggregates were consistent with higher competition compared with those from surface‐attached aggregates. Overall, the underlying evolutionary patterns of biofilms formed from mobile aggregates consistently followed the essence of the “Red Queen Hypothesis,” while biofilms developed from surface‐attached aggregates were not deterministic. This study advanced our understanding of biofilm‐related treatment processes using the principles of microbial ecology.
Board gender diversity and corporate environmental performance: The moderating role of family and dual‐class majority ownership structures
Authors: Cordeiro James J. , Profumo Giorgia , Tutore Ilaria
Published: January 2020

While prior work has investigated the impact of (a) ownership structure and (b) board gender diversity separately on corporate environmental performance, researchers have not studied the potentially important relationship between ownership control and female board diversity in influencing corporate environmental performance jointly. We do so in the context of majority ownership in family‐controlled and dual‐class firms whose motives and influence are theoretically different from that of the firm's minority shareholders. Drawing on resource dependency, socioemotional wealth theory, and secondary agency theory, we hypothesize that majority family owners and dual‐class owners likely choose women directors to help advance their personal preferences for environmental corporate social responsibility. Our empirical tests utilizing 2,755 U.S. firm years over the 2010–2015 show that, as hypothesized, these two majority ownership types interact with board gender diversity to positively influence corporate environmental performance.
Septicemia after chemotherapy for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia in China: A multicenter study CCCG‐ALL‐2015
Authors: Zhu Yiping , Yang Rong , Cai Jiaoyang , Yu Jie , Tang Yanjing , Chen Yumei , Wang Ningling , He Hailong , Wu Xuedong , Cheng Frankie W. T. , Sun Lirong , He Yingyi , Ju Xiuli , Tian Xin , Hu Qun , Jin Runming , Pan Kaili , Fang Yongjun , Zhai Xiaowen , Jiang Hui , Li Chi‐kong
Published: January 2020

Background

Septicemia is an important cause of treatment‐related mortality and treatment failure in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in developing countries. A multicenter CCCG‐ALL‐2015 study was conducted in China and factors associated with septicemia and mortality were studied.

Methods

Patients participated in CCCG‐ALL‐2015 study from January 2015 to December 2017 were included. Patients with documented septicemia were identified from the Data Center and additional data were collected.

Results

A total of 4080 patients were recruited in the study and 527 patients with septicemia were identified (12.9%, 95% CI 11.9%‐13.9%). The intermediate risk (IR)/high risk (HR) group had significantly higher incidence of septicemia as compared with low risk (LR) group, 17.1% vs 9.1% (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.71‐2.49, P < .001). Induction phase was the period with majority of septicemia episodes happened, 66.8% in LR and 56.1% in IR/HR groups. Gram‐positive bacteria accounted for 54.1%, gram‐negative bacteria 44.5%, and fungus 1.4% of positive cultures. Multidrug‐resistant organisms were detected in 20.5% of all organisms. The mortality rate after septicemia was 3.4% (95% CI 1.9%‐4.9%). Multiple logistic regression identified female gender, comorbid complications, and fungal infection as risk factors associated with mortality. Gram‐negative septicemia was associated with higher mortality, 4.9% vs 1.4% (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.09‐0.88, P = .02). There was marked variation in the incidence of septicemia among the 18 centers, from 4.8% to 29.1%.

Conclusion

Overall the incidence and pattern of septicemia in this multicenter study in China was similar to the reports of western countries. The septicemia‐related mortality rate was low. There was marked variation in the incidence of septicemia among the centers.
Integrating core conflictual relationship themes in neurobiological assessment of interpersonal processes in psychotherapy
Authors: Grandjean Loris , Beuchat Hélène , Gyger Lucien , de Roten Yves , Despland Jean‐Nicolas , Draganski Bogdan , Kramer Ueli
Published: January 2020

Interpersonal processes are a key target in counselling and psychotherapy. It is of paramount importance to sharpen their assessment using integrated methods. Hence, this methodological paper describes how fields of research in psychotherapy and neuroimaging can be integrated into one novel complementary neurobehavioural paradigm that can be applied to enhance our understanding of interpersonal processes in psychotherapy. To illustrate this integration, we present selected data from a pre–post pilot study where the authors assessed interpersonal processes in brief treatment for borderline personality disorder using the core conflictual relationship theme, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and outcome questionnaires. To do so, they measured individual changes in neural activity using an fMRI task pre‐ and post‐treatment where clients gave feedback on the emotional valence of sentences extracted from their own Relationship Anecdotes Paradigm interviews mixed with neutral ones. In this paper, using data from two participants of said study, we discuss how to implement this methodology and what can be achieved in terms of results.
Carbon–Phosphorus Coupling from C^N Cyclometalated AuIII Complexes
Authors: Bonsignore Riccardo , Thomas Sophie R. , Klooster Wim T. , Coles Simon J. , Jenkins Robert L. , Bourissou Didier , Barone Giampaolo , Casini Angela
Published: January 2020

With the aim of exploiting new organometallic species for cross‐coupling reactions, we report here on the AuIII‐mediated Caryl−P bond formation occurring upon reaction of C^N cyclometalated AuIII complexes with phosphines. The [Au(C^N)Cl2] complex 1 featuring the bidentate 2‐benzoylpyridine (CCON) scaffold was found to react with PTA (1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane) under mild conditions, including in water, to afford the corresponding phosphonium 5 through C−P reductive elimination. A mechanism is proposed for the title reaction based on in situ 31P{1H} NMR and HR‐ESI‐MS analyses combined with DFT calculations. The C−P coupling has been generalized to other C^N cyclometalated AuIII complexes and other tertiary phosphines. Overall, this work provides new insights into the reactivity of cyclometalated AuIII compounds and establishes initial structure–activity relationships to develop AuIII‐mediated C−P cross‐coupling reactions.
Diverse Approaches for Enantioselective C−H Functionalization Reactions Using Group 9 CpxMIII Catalysts
Authors: Yoshino Tatsuhiko , Satake Shun , Matsunaga Shigeki
Published: January 2020

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalization reactions with Cp*MIII catalysts (M=Co, Rh, Ir) have found a wide variety of applications in organic synthesis. Albeit the intrinsic difficulties in achieving catalytic stereocontrol using these catalysts due to their lack of additional coordination sites for external chiral ligands and the conformational flexibility of the Cp ligand, catalytic enantioselective C−H functionalization reactions using the Group 9 metal triad with Cp‐type ligands have been intensively studied since 2012. In this minireview, the progress in these reactions according to the type of the chiral catalyst used are summarized and discussed. The development of chiral Cpx ligands the metal complexes thereof, artificial metalloenzymes, chiral carboxylate‐assisted enantioselective C−H activations, enantioselective alkylations assisted by chiral carboxylic acids or chiral sulfonates, and chiral transient directing groups are discussed.
One‐Step Synthesis of Cyclophanes as Crystalline Sponge and Their [2]Catenanes through SNAr Reactions
Authors: Tominaga Masahide , Hyodo Tadashi , Maekawa Yumi , Kawahata Masatoshi , Yamaguchi Kentaro
Published: January 2020

This work reports that cyclophanes and their [2]catenanes were synthesized by the SNAr reactions of disubstituted adamantanes bearing halophenol units and 3,6‐dichlorotetrazine in moderate yields. In the crystalline state, the cyclophanes had hexagonal structures with a cavity. The [2]catenanes were composed of two macrocycles that were singly interlocked and orthogonally arranged, indicating the construction from eight component molecules through eight C−O bonds in a one‐step reaction in up to 33 % yield. The cyclophanes were assembled to afford a supramolecular organic framework in the solid state, which exhibited permanent intrinsic porosity and adsorption of leaf alcohol or aldehyde in a single‐crystal to single‐crystal fashion. The molecular structures of the liquid guests were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. The formation of catenanes and the use of cyclophane‐based porous crystals in the crystalline sponge method may be largely ascribed to the solvophobic effects and the van der Waals interactions that originate in the aliphatic and bulky nature of the adamantane units.
Selective and Scalable Electrosynthesis of 2H‐2‐(Aryl)‐benzo[d]‐1,2,3‐triazoles and Their N‐Oxides by Using Leaded Bronze Cathodes
Authors: Wirtanen Tom , Rodrigo Eduardo , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: January 2020

Electrosynthesis of 2H‐2‐(aryl)benzo[d]‐1,2,3‐triazoles and their N‐oxides from 2‐nitroazobenzene derivatives is reported. The electrolysis is conducted in a very simple undivided cell under constant current conditions with a leaded bronze cathode and a glassy carbon anode. The product distribution between 2H‐2‐(aryl)benzo[d]‐1,2,3‐triazoles and their N‐oxides can be guided by simply controlling the current density and the amount of the charge applied. The reaction tolerates several sensitive functional groups in reductive electrochemistry. The usefulness and the applicability of the synthetic method is demonstrated by a formal synthesis of an antiviral compound.
N,N′‐Ethylene‐Bridged Bis‐2‐Aryl‐Pyrrolinium Cations to E‐Diaminoalkenes: Non‐Identical Stepwise Reversible Double‐Redox Coupled Bond Activation Reactions
Authors: Nayak Mithilesh Kumar , Stubbe Jessica , Neuman Nicolás I. , Narayanan Ramakirushnan Suriya , Maji Sandipan , Schulzke Carola , Chandrasekhar Vadapalli , Sarkar Biprajit , Jana Anukul
Published: January 2020

This work presents a stepwise reversible two‐electron transfer induced hydrogen shift leading to the conversion of a bis‐pyrrolinium cation to an E‐diaminoalkene and vice versa. Remarkably, the forward and the reverse reaction, which are both reversible, follow two completely different reaction pathways. Establishing such unprecedented property in this type of processes was possible by developing a novel synthetic route towards the starting dication. All intermediates involved in both the forward and the backward reactions were comprehensively characterized by a combination of spectroscopic, crystallographic, electrochemical, spectroelectrochemical, and theoretical methods. The presented synthetic route opens up new possibilities for the generation of multi‐pyrrolinium cation scaffold‐based organic redox systems, which constitute decidedly sought‐after molecules in contemporary chemistry.
Cytologic features and diagnostic value of PeriView FLEX transbronchial needle aspiration targeting pulmonary nodules
Authors: Naso Julia , Bras James , Villamil Carlos , Ionescu Diana N. , Wang Gang , Shaipanich Tawimas , Beaudoin Eve‐Lea , Myers Renelle , Lam Stephen , Zhou Chen
Published: January 2020

Background

Transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) of peripheral lung nodules can be difficult with conventional devices due to their limited flexibility. A promising new technology for accessing these lesions is the PeriView FLEX TBNA device, which has a flexible spiral‐grooved needle. The present study reports the unique cytologic features, diagnostic value, and potential pitfalls of PeriView FLEX TBNA specimens.

Methods

This study retrospectively evaluates 113 consecutive cases of lung nodules sampled using the PeriView FLEX device with radial endobronchial ultrasound guidance.

Results

PeriView FLEX specimens were satisfactory for evaluation in 111 of 113 cases (98%). A diagnosis of malignancy was made on 64 specimens (57%), with 100% specificity and 70% sensitivity for malignancy. In 4 cases, the PeriView FLEX sample was the only specimen from bronchoscopy that was diagnostic of malignancy. Of the 64 PeriView FLEX specimens with malignant cells, 58 (91%) were adequate for immunohistochemistry and 44 (69%) were adequate for molecular genetic testing. Potential pitfalls were largely ameliorated through education regarding the unique features of PeriView FLEX samples, such as the expected abundance of anthracotic pigment and the paucity of lymphocytes.

Conclusions

TBNA using the PeriView FLEX device to sample pulmonary nodules contributed to the diagnostic value of bronchoscopy and tended to provide sufficient tissue for ancillary studies. Many of the possible pitfalls may be avoided through consideration of the unique cytologic features associated with this novel sampling method.
Nitrogen Availability from Cover Crops: Is It Always about the C:N Ratio?
Authors: Ruark M. , Franzen D.
Published: January 2020

The commonly accepted belief of crop and soil scientists and practitioners is that the tie‐up or release of N from cover crops is based largely on carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratios (C:N). Recent research in Wisconsin and North Dakota challenge this long‐held belief. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Nutrient Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/742.
Consumer motivations to purchase from benefit corporations (B Corps)
Authors: Bianchi Constanza , Reyes Valentina , Devenin Veronica
Published: January 2020

The objective of this study is to explore the motivational structures of consumers in the decision to purchase from Benefit Corporations (B Corps) by applying means‐end chain (MEC) theory and using a soft‐laddering technique. Data were collected from 20 Chilean consumers of B Corp products and services. Results revealed that the primary motivators for consuming from B Corps are (a) social/environmental responsibility, (b) self‐satisfaction, and (c) health and quality of life. Findings suggest that consumers' social and environmental values are the main motivators for purchasing from B Corps, and certification provides confidence in the effectiveness of the social or environmental contribution. Additionally, personal benefits for consumers are also relevant motivators, for instance being an agent of change and enjoying healthy and high‐quality products that are accessible online. This research is helpful in designing marketing strategies for responsible firms and B Corps and for public policymakers.
Detailed facies analysis of Cenomanian–Turonian organic‐rich mudstones: Implications for depositional controls on source rocks
Authors: Percy Emma L. , Pedersen Per K.
Published: January 2020

Understanding mudstone depositional processes, including both traction transport and dynamic mechanisms, requires a re‐assessment of how these processes relate to the accumulation and preservation of organic carbon in fine‐grained successions. This relationship was addressed using facies described in detail from a Cenomanian–Turonian aged, organic‐rich, marine mudstone‐dominated succession from the Albertan Western Interior Seaway. All facies exhibit a high degree of heterogeneity at the millimetre‐to‐decimetre scale, contain evidence of bioturbation and display similar ranges of sedimentary structures including wave ripples and current ripples, sharp‐based graded beds and starved ripples. Described facies vary in grain size as well as relative abundances of biogenic versus siliciclastic grains. Siliciclastic grains are dominantly composed of quartz silt as well as silt‐sized to sand‐sized clay mineral–rich aggregates while the biogenic grains are dominantly composed of silt‐sized to sand‐sized calcareous pellets, bivalve fragments and foraminifera. Although the succession is relatively clay mineral‐rich, the majority of clay minerals occur as mud aggregates that were transported by traction processes. The sedimentary structures present are diagnostic of sea floor reworking by waves and currents, indicating that the basin was relatively shallow (i.e. not hundreds of metres deep) with frequent reworking of the sea floor sediment with suspension settling deposits being rare. The abundance of bioturbation and in situ bivalves indicates that there was sufficient oxygen at the sea floor and that widespread bottom water anoxia was not persistent at the time of deposition of the organic‐rich interval of interest. The accumulation of organic‐rich sediment appears to be a preservational phenomenon caused by sediment being buried more rapidly than the organic carbon can oxidize in the surficial layers due to episodic inputs of siliciclastic material during large storm events.
Revamp disability services to support health sciences students
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: January 2020

Christine Low, M.S.W., admits to being a little overwhelmed on her first day as the Disability Officer at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. But in a short time, she remade the office to better serve students.
Rapid peat development beneath created, maturing mangrove forests: ecosystem changes across a 25‐yr chronosequence
Authors: Osland Michael J. , Feher Laura C. , Spivak Amanda C. , Nestlerode Janet A. , Almario Alejandro E. , Cormier Nicole , From Andrew S. , Krauss Ken W. , Russell Marc J. , Alvarez Federico , Dantin Darrin D. , Harvey James E. , Stagg Camille L.
Published: January 2020

Mangrove forests are among the world's most productive and carbon‐rich ecosystems. Despite growing understanding of factors controlling mangrove forest soil carbon stocks, there is a need to advance understanding of the speed of peat development beneath maturing mangrove forests, especially in created and restored mangrove forests that are intended to compensate for ecosystem functions lost during mangrove forest conversion to other land uses. To better quantify the rate of soil organic matter development beneath created, maturing mangrove forests, we measured ecosystem changes across a 25‐yr chronosequence. We compared ecosystem properties in created, maturing mangrove forests to adjacent natural mangrove forests. We also quantified site‐specific changes that occurred between 2010 and 2016. Soil organic matter accumulated rapidly beneath maturing mangrove forests as sandy soils transitioned to organic‐rich soils (peat). Within 25 yr, a 20‐cm deep peat layer developed. The time required for created mangrove forests to reach equivalency with natural mangrove forests was estimated as (1) <15 yr for herbaceous and juvenile vegetation, (2) ~55 yr for adult trees, (3) ~25 yr for the upper soil layer (0–10 cm), and (4) ~45–80 yr for the lower soil layer (10–30 cm). For soil elevation change, the created mangrove forests were equivalent to or surpassed natural mangrove forests within the first 5 yr. A comparison to chronosequence studies from other ecosystems indicates that the rate of soil organic matter accumulation beneath maturing mangrove forests may be among the fastest globally. In most peatland ecosystems, soil organic matter formation occurs slowly (over centuries, millennia); however, these results show that mangrove peat formation can occur within decades. Peat development, primarily due to subsurface root accumulation, enables mangrove forests to sequester carbon, adjust their elevation relative to sea level, and adapt to changing conditions at the dynamic land–ocean interface. In the face of climate change and rising sea levels, coastal managers are increasingly concerned with the longevity and functionality of coastal restoration efforts. Our results advance understanding of the pace of ecosystem development in created, maturing mangrove forests, which can improve predictions of mangrove forest responses to global change and ecosystem restoration.
Climate connectivity of the bobcat in the Great Lakes region
Authors: Marrotte Robby R. , Bowman Jeff , Wilson Paul J.
Published: January 2020

The Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River are imposing barriers for wildlife, and the additive effect of urban and agricultural development that dominates the lower Great Lakes region likely further reduces functional connectivity for many terrestrial species. As the climate warms, species will need to track climate across these barriers. It is important therefore to investigate land cover and bioclimatic hypotheses that may explain the northward expansion of species through the Great Lakes. We investigated the functional connectivity of a vagile generalist, the bobcat, as a representative generalist forest species common to the region. We genotyped tissue samples collected across the region at 14 microsatellite loci and compared different landscape hypotheses that might explain the observed gene flow or functional connectivity. We found that the Great Lakes and the additive influence of forest stands with either low or high canopy cover and deep lake‐effect snow have disrupted gene flow, whereas intermediate forest cover has facilitated gene flow. Functional connectivity in southern Ontario is relatively low and was limited in part by the low amount of forest cover. Pathways across the Great Lakes were through the Niagara region and through the Lower Peninsula of Michigan over the Straits of Mackinac and the St. Marys River. These pathways are important routes for bobcat range expansion north of the Great Lakes and are also likely pathways that many other mobile habitat generalists must navigate to track the changing climate. The extent to which species can navigate these routes will be important for determining the future biodiversity of areas north of the Great Lakes.
Digoxin is associated with worse outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Zhou Jingmin , Cao Juan , Jin Xuejuan , Zhou Jun , Chen Zhenyue , Xu Dingli , Yang Xinchun , Dong Wei , Li Liwen , Fan Yuyuan , Chen Li , Zhong Qiaoqing , Fu Micheal , Hu Kai , Ge Junbo ,   CN‐HF investigators
Published: January 2020

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of digoxin use on the outcomes of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and its possible interaction with atrial fibrillation or use of currently guideline‐recommended treatments in the real world in China.

Methods and results

Patients hospitalized with HFrEF from 45 hospitals participating in the China National Heart Failure Registration Study (CN‐HF) were enrolled to assess the all‐cause mortality, HF mortality, all‐cause re‐hospitalization, and HF re‐hospitalization associated with digoxin use. Eight hundred eighty‐two eligible HFrEF patients in the CN‐HF registry were included: 372 patients with digoxin and 510 patients without digoxin. Among them, 794 (90.0%) patients were followed up for the endpoint events, with a median follow‐up of 28.6 months. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that the all‐cause mortality (P < 0.001) and all‐cause re‐hospitalization (P = 0.020) were significantly higher in digoxin group than non‐digoxin group, while HF mortality (P = 0.232) and HF re‐hospitalization (P = 0.098) were similar between the two groups. The adjusted Cox proportional‐hazards regression analysis demonstrated that digoxin use remained as an independent risk factor for increased all‐cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.76; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27–2.44; P = 0.001] and all‐cause re‐hospitalization (HR 1.27; 95% CI 1.03–1.57; P = 0.029) in HFrEF patients and the predictive value of digoxin for all‐cause mortality irrespective of rhythm or in combination with other guideline‐recommended therapies.

Conclusions

Digoxin use is independently associated with increased risk of all‐cause mortality and all‐cause re‐hospitalization in HFrEF patients.
Intractable coronary fibromuscular dysplasia leading to end‐stage heart failure and fatal heart transplantation
Authors: Cattaneo Magdalena Maria , Moccetti Marco , Cattaneo Mattia , Sürder Daniel , Suter Thomas , Martinelli Michele , Roost Eva , Schmidli Jürg , Banz Yara , Schneiders Carmen , Pedrazzini Giovanni , Corti Roberto , Räber Lorenz , Crea Filippo , Mohacsi Paul , Gallino Augusto
Published: January 2020

Coronary fibromuscular dysplasia is uncommon, and even rarer its unstable and recurrent course. We present the unique case of a 52‐year‐old woman who underwent in total 12 coronary angiographies and three percutaneous coronary intervention within 24 months because of repetitive acute coronary syndromes due to refractory spasm, dissection, restenosis all leading to end‐stage heart failure, and heart transplantation. The patient died 12 days after the heart transplantation complicated by intraoperative acute thrombotic occlusion of left anterior descending artery of the graft despite normal pretransplant coronary angiography. Autopsy of the recipient heart confirmed coronary fibromuscular dysplasia with massive intimal hyperplasia and restenosis.
The Binomial Copper‐Catalysis and Asymmetric Ring Opening of Strained Heterocycles: Past and Future Challenges
Authors: Pineschi Mauro
Published: January 2020

This minireview is focused on the use of chiral copper‐catalysts for the asymmetric ring opening of unsaturated strained heterocycles. Starting from the activity of my research group in Pisa over the years a report of the recent literature in this field is provided. From a mechanistic point of view the ring‐opening reactions of unsaturated strained heterocycles with organometallic reagents are a sort of allylic alkylation in which the leaving group remains at the end of the reaction. Therefore, chiral ligands useful for copper‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation and conjugate addition such as phosphoramidites and ferrocenyl phosphines have shown to be effective for ring‐opening reactions as well. As consistently shown in the article, the regio‐ and stereoselectivities obtained with copper are in most cases complimentary to the selectivities attainable by other common metal catalysts such as palladium, nickel and rhodium. In recent years, the introduction of versatile boron atoms by the use of nucleophilic (chiral) copper‐boryl complexes has enlarged considerably the synthetic potential of ring‐opening reactions.
Voltammetric Label‐free Immunosensors for the Diagnosis of Cystic Echinococcosis
Authors: Eissa Shimaa , Noordin Rahmah , Zourob Mohammed
Published: January 2020

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) or hydatid disease is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus. Early serodiagnosis and continuous monitoring of the disease is very important for medical treatment. Here, we report the detecting of both echinococcus antigen and antibody for the diagnosis of hydatid disease using square wave voltammetry (SWV)‐based immunosensors. The gold electrodes were functionalized using cysteamine/phenylene diisothiocyanate linkers and used for the immunosensors fabrication. The hydatid antigen and antibody immunosensors were constructed by the immobilization of either purified rabbit polyclonal antibody or recombinant antigen B (AgB), respectively on the functionalized gold electrodes surfaces. The detection in both cases was achieved by following the change in the SWV reduction peak current of the ferro/ferricyanide redox couple upon antibody or antigen binding. These immunosensors enabled the detection of echinococcus antigen and antibody within a concentration range of 1 pg.mL−1 to 1 μg.mL−1 with detection limits of 0.4 pg.mL−1 and 0.3 pg.mL−1, respectively. A preliminary application of the developed immunosensor was performed in spiked serum sample showing good recovery percentages ranging from 102 to 110 % for both hydatid antibody and antigen detection. This easy‐to‐use, sensitive, and low cost quantitative method holds great promise for the early diagnosis of hydatid disease and thus, better managements and treatment outcomes.
Cooperative Scheduling for Integrated Electricity and Natural Gas Systems Considering Gas Flow Transient Characteristics and Source–Load Uncertainties
Authors: Zhang Yachao , Huang Zhanghao , Shu Shengwen , Zheng Feng , Lin Jiahao
Published: January 2020

With the continuous expansion of the installation capacity of wind turbines and gas‐fired units, the interdependency between power systems and natural gas systems has increasingly intensified. To deal with wind power uncertainty, an interval optimization‐based cooperative scheduling model for integrated electricity and natural gas systems is proposed, in which natural gas transient flow characteristics are modeled by partial differential equations and transformed by the Wendroff difference scheme and linearization technique. Moreover, demand response uncertainty for power and residential gas loads is considered. Then the uncertainties of wind power generation and power and gas loads, can be represented by interval numbers, and the corresponding objective function and operation constraints can be transformed to the deterministic forms for solving. Two case studies are performed on a 6‐bus power system coupled with 6‐node gas network and the modified IEEE 118‐bus system with 10‐node gas network to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. Furthermore, the robust optimization model is implemented for comparison. Simulation results demonstrate that considering natural gas transient flow and demand response uncertainty can significantly improve the economic performance of the solution. In addition, the proposed model can reduce the conservativeness of decision‐making by the robust optimization model.
Pore‐scale visualization and quantitative analysis of the spontaneous imbibition based on experiments and micro‐CT technology in low‐permeability mixed‐wettability rock
Authors: Liu Qiang , Song Rui , Liu Jianjun , Lei Yun , Zhu Xingyu
Published: January 2020

The pore‐scale imbibition mechanism in fractured water‐wetted reservoirs has been acknowledged as an efficient tool to enhance oil recovery. Most rock in a natural reservoir is mixed‐wetted, but most studies on the pore‐scale imbibition process only focused on the water‐wetted rock. This paper adopts two mixed‐wetted core samples for microspontaneous imbibition experiment, micro‐CT scanning, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) test. The results indicate that the pore radius distribution of the segmented CT images is consistent with that of the NMR test. The microimbibition recovery ratio of core No. 34‐1 and core No. 64 in the spontaneous imbibition experiment are 27.7% and 58.2%, which agrees well with that computed by the micro‐CT scanning image (27.63% and 56.09%). Based on the segmented images, the influences of the Jamin's effect, pore size distribution, and wettability on the microspontaneous imbibition are visualized and quantitatively studied. The Jamin's effect is the important factor that hinders the microimbibition process. The main pore size of imbibition distributes in the range of 1‐25 μm. Furthermore, the pore‐scale spontaneous imbibition process in a single pore with mixed wettability is investigated and analyzed. The relationships among the contact angle, capillary force, recovery ratio, wettability, and the microimbibition recovery are revealed.