bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statewide Emergency Medical Services Protocols for Status Epilepticus Management
Authors: Han Ethan J. , Chuck Carlin C. , Martin Thomas J. , Madsen Tracy E. , Claassen Jan , Reznik Michael E.
Published: December 2020

Although seizures are common in prehospital settings, standardized emergency medical services (EMS) treatment algorithms do not exist nationally. We examined nationwide variability in status epilepticus treatment by analyzing 33 publicly available statewide EMS protocols. All adult protocols recommend intravenous benzodiazepines (midazolam, n = 33; lorazepam, n = 23; diazepam, n = 24), 30 recommend intramuscular benzodiazepines (midazolam, n = 30; lorazepam, n = 8; diazepam, n = 3), and 27 recommend intranasal benzodiazepines (midazolam, n = 27; lorazepam, n = 3); pediatric protocols also frequently recommend rectal diazepam (n = 14). Recommended dosages vary widely, and first‐ and second‐line agents are designated in only 18 and 2 states, respectively. Given this degree of variability, standardized national EMS guidelines are needed. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:604–609
Low‐Energy Spin Precession in the Molecular Field of a Magnetic Thin Film
Authors: Vautrin Christopher , Lacour Daniel , Tiusan Coriolan , Lu Yuan , Montaigne François , Chshiev Mairbek , Weber Wolfgang , Hehn Michel
Published: December 2020

Electronic spin precession and filtering are measured in the molecular field of magnetic thin films. Lab‐on‐chip experiments allow injection of electrons with energies between 0.8 and 1.1 eV, an energy range not yet explored in spin precession experiments. While filtering angles agree with previous reported values measured at much higher electron energies, spin precession angles of 2.5° in CoFe and 0.7° in Co per nanometer film thickness could be measured which are 30 times smaller than those previously measured at 7 eV. On the basis of ab initio calculations, the results are explained and it is shown that the band structure and layer roughness are playing a key role at low energy.
Activatable Polymeric Nanoprobe for Near‐Infrared Fluorescence and Photoacoustic Imaging of T Lymphocytes
Authors: Zhang Yan , He Shasha , Chen Wan , Liu Yinghua , Zhang Xuefei , Miao Qingqing , Pu Kanyi
Published: December 2020

Development of real‐time non‐invasive imaging probes to assess infiltration and activation of cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) is critical to predict the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, which however remains challenging. Reported here is an activatable semiconducting polymer nanoprobe (SPNP) for near‐infrared fluorescence (NIRF) and photoacoustic (PA) imaging of a biomarker (granzyme B) associated with activation of CTLs. SPNP comprises a semiconducting polymer (SP) conjugated with a granzyme B cleavable and dye‐labeled peptide as the side chain, both of which emit NIRF and PA signals. After systemic administration, SPNP passively targets the tumor and in situ reacts with granzyme B to release the dye‐labeled peptide, leading to decreased NIRF and PA signals from the dye but unchanged signals from the polymer. Such ratiometric NIRF and PA signals of SPNP correlate well with the expression level of granzyme B and intratumoral population of CTLs. Thus, this study not only presents the first PA probes for in vivo imaging of immune activation but also provides a molecular design strategy that can be generalized for molecular imaging of other immune‐related biomarkers.
Modeling multivariate degradation processes with time‐variant covariates and imperfect maintenance effects
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Gaudoin Olivier , Doyen Laurent , Bérenguer Christophe , Xie Min
Published: December 2020

This article proposes two types of degradation models that are suitable for describing multivariate degrading systems subject to time‐variant covariates and imperfect maintenance activities. A multivariate Wiener process is constructed as a baseline model, on top of which two types of models are developed to meaningfully characterize the time‐variant covariates and imperfect maintenance effects. The underlying difference between the two models lies in the way of capturing the influences of covariates and maintenance: The first model reflects these impacts in the degradation rates/paths directly, whereas the second one describes the impacts by modifying the time scales governing the degradation processes. In each model, two particular imperfect maintenance models are presented, which differ in the extent of reduction in degradation level or virtual age. The two degradation models are then compared in certain special cases. The proposed multivariate degradation models pertain to complex industrial systems whose health deterioration can be characterized by multiple performance characteristics and can be altered or affected by maintenance activities and operating/environmental conditions.
Electrochemical Methods and Protocols for Characterization of Ceramic and Polymer Electrolytes for Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Deivanayagam Ramasubramonian , Shahbazian‐Yassar Reza
Published: December 2020

Solid‐state lithium batteries are widely believed to be the most feasible next‐generation battery technology. New material candidates for solid electrolytes are typically screened using meticulous characterization methods and ranked using metrics such as ionic conductivity, transference number, decomposition voltage, and deposition/stripping overpotential. The determination of these metrics requires the use of a variety of electrochemical experiments, the details of which are scattered across existing literature and could be time‐consuming for a beginner to locate. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the electrochemical concepts, methods, and protocols adopted to characterize the polymer and ceramic electrolyte candidates for rechargeable batteries. This work facilitates the understanding of the key parameters involved in solid‐state electrolyte characterization and in interpreting their data.
Recent Advances on Carbon‐Based Materials for High Performance Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Liu Wenjie , Zhang Xiong , Xu Yanan , Li Chen , Wang Kai , Sun Xianzhong , Su Fangyuan , Chen Cheng‐Meng , Liu Fangyan , Wu Zhong‐Shuai , Ma Yanwei
Published: December 2020

Lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) combining of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and supercapacitors (SCs) with improved performance bridge the gap between these two devices, and have attracted huge attention in the field of high‐efficiency electrochemical energy storage. The behavior of electrode materials is essential for the realization of high energy and high output LICs devices. As the most widely utilized electrodes, carbon materials demonstrated their ability in LICs with fast charge storage and long life‐span. Here, an overview of carbon materials for advanced LICs applications is given. The advantages and shortcomings of carbon materials as electrodes are systematically analyzed with the purpose of disclosing their influence on LICs devices. In light of this analysis, the critical aspects are discussed, which should be dealt with in the future for the realization of desires high‐performance LICs devices.
Einstein's Washington Manuscript on Unified Field Theory**
Authors: Sauer Tilman , Schütz Tobias
Published: December 2020

In this note, we point attention to and briefly discuss a curious manuscript of Einstein, composed in 1938 and entitled “Unified Field Theory,” the only such writing, published or unpublished, carrying this title without any further specification. Apparently never intended for publication, the manuscript sheds light both on Einstein′s modus operandi as well as on the public role of Einstein′s later work on a unified field theory of gravitation and electromagnetism.
Biofilm structure, dynamics, and ecology of an upscaled biocathode wastewater microbial fuel cell
Authors: Leininger Aaron , Yates Matthew D. , Ramirez Mark , Kjellerup Birthe
Published: December 2020

A microbial fuel cell (MFC) system containing modular half‐submerged biocathode was operated for 6 months in an 800 L flow‐through system with domestic wastewater. For the first time, spatial and temporal differences in biofilm communities were examined on large three‐dimensional electrodes in a wastewater MFC. Biocathode microbial community analysis showed a specialized biofilm community with electrogenic and electrotrophic taxa forming during operation, suggesting potentially opposing electrode reactions. The anodic community structure shifted during operation, but no spatial differences were observed along the length of the electrode. Power output from the system was most strongly influenced by pH. Higher power densities were associated with the use of solids‐dewatering filtrate with increased organic matter, conductivity, and pH. The results show that the biocathode was the rate‐limiting step and that future MFC design should consider the effect of size, shape, and orientation of biocathodes on their community assembly and electrotrophic ability.
Anion Receptors Selective for Oxoanions of Phosphorus and the Importance of Partial Charge
Authors: Sohn Dae Hyup , Ohn Takbum , Han Eunbi , Atar Amol Balu , Cho Seung Joo , Kang Jongmin
Published: December 2020

We have developed new symmetric receptors 1 and 2, which bind selectively to oxoanions of phosphorus such as phosphinates and dihydrogen phosphate. Among the phosphinates and dihydrogen phosphate, we have investigated the orders of binding affinities to receptors 1 and 2 are Me2PO2− > H2PO4− > PhHPO2− and Me2PO2− > H2PO4−, respectively. We further investigated the physicochemical reasons for this order by theoretical calculations. Calculation results were in good agreement with experimental results. The order of affinity for the anions seemed to depend on the magnitude of the partial charge of oxygen (hydrogen bond acceptor) present in the anion.
Subanesthetic dose of ketamine for the antidepressant effects and the associated cognitive impairments of electroconvulsive therapy in elderly patients—A randomized, double‐blind, controlled clinical study
Authors: Zou Lei , Min Su , Chen Qibin , Li Xiao , Ren Li
Published: December 2020

Objectives

We previously confirmed that low‐dose ketamine, as an adjunctive anesthetic for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in adult patients with depression, accelerates the effects of ECT and reduces the ECT‐induced learning and memory deficits. This study explored the efficacy and safety of low‐dose ketamine in elderly patients with depression.

Methods

Elderly patients with depression (N = 157) were randomly divided into two groups: propofol anesthesia group (group P) and propofol combined with ketamine anesthesia group (group KP). Patients in group KP were given low‐dose ketamine (0.3 mg/kg) for each ECT treatment; patients in group P were given the same amount of normal saline. Depressive symptoms and global cognitive functions were assessed using the 24‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Mini‐Mental State Examination, respectively, at baseline, 1 day after the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 6th ECT sessions, and 1 day after the end of the ECT course. ECT effects of and complications were recorded.

Results

In total, 67 patients in group KP and 70 in group P completed the study. After the ECT, the response and remission rates were 82.09% and 73.13%, respectively, in group KP, and 81.43% and 68.57%, respectively, in group P; there was no statistical difference between groups. However, the incidence of cognitive function impairment was lower in group KP (10.4%) than in group P (25.7%), while different electrical dose and seizure duration were required during the course of treatment between the two groups. There was no difference in the complications of ECT between groups.

Conclusions

Low‐dose ketamine is safe as an adjunct anesthetic for elderly patients subjected to ECT. It has a protective effect on cognitive function and may accelerate the antidepressant effects of ECT.
Gender differences in emotional response to the COVID‐19 outbreak in Spain
Authors: García‐Fernández Lorena , Romero‐Ferreiro Verónica , Padilla Sergio , David López‐Roldán Pedro , Monzó‐García María , Rodriguez‐Jimenez Roberto
Published: December 2020

Objective

We aim to explore the differential presence of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and acute stress between men and women during the COVID‐19 outbreak, and to study the relationship between these symptoms and two environmental variables, coexistence, and violence.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study starting on March 29 to April 5, 2020, based on a national online survey using snowball sampling techniques. Symptoms of anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Scale), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), and acute stress (Acute Stress Disorder Inventory) were assessed. Differences in the presence of symptoms and the relationship of coexistence and domestic violence were evaluated from a gender perspective.

Results

Men showed significant lower mean (SD) in anxiety, depression, and acute stress levels than women [HARS, 14.1 (9.8) versus. 18.4 (10.2),F = 56.2,p < .001; BDI 3.4 (3.9) versus 4.5 (4.3),F = 16.6,p < .001, and ASDI 3.6 (2.9) versus 4.7 (3.1),F = 39.0,p < .001, respectively), as well as a weaker depressive syndrome (28.1% males versus 39.9% females, χ2 = 25.5,p < .001). In addition, an interaction Gender × Coexistence was found in anxiety (F = 56.2,p < .001) and acute stress (F = 3.52,p = .06) and, according to depressive symptoms, an interaction Gender × Violence was found marginally significant (F = 3.3,p = .07).

Conclusions

Findings indicate that women present greater severity in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and acute stress. Moreover, loneliness and violence specifically worsen the emotional state in women. These results can undoubtedly guide better healthcare planning adopting a gender perspective.
Suppression of tumor immune microenvironment via microRNA‐1 after epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance acquirement in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kawana Sachiko , Saito Ryoko , Miki Yasuhiro , Kimura Yuichiro , Abe Jiro , Sato Ikuro , Endo Mareyuki , Sugawara Shunichi , Sasano Hironobu
Published: December 2020

Immunotherapy is considered one of the most important therapeutic strategies for patients with lung adenocarcinoma after the development of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI) resistance. However, useful predictors of immunotherapy for these patients has not been examined well, although the status of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), including programmed death‐ligand 1 expression and lymphocyte infiltration, has been generally known to provide predictive markers for the efficacy of immunotherapy. This study aimed to clarify novel predictors of immunotherapy following EGFR‐TKI resistance in lung adenocarcinoma, especially regarding micro RNA (miRNA). We evaluated the correlation between EGFR‐TKI resistance and lymphocyte infiltration, before and after acquiring EGFR‐TKI resistance, in 21 cases of lung adenocarcinoma, and further explored this by in vitro studies, using miRNA PCR arrays. Subsequently, we transfected miRNA‐1 (miR‐1), the most variable miRNA in this array, into three kinds of lung cancer cells, and examined the effects of miR‐1 on EGFR‐TKI sensitivity, cytokine expression and lymphocyte migration. Histopathological examination demonstrated that infiltration levels of CD8‐positive T cells were significantly decreased after development of EGFR‐TKI resistance. In vitro studies revealed that miR‐1 significantly inhibited EGFR‐TKI effect and induction of cytokines, such as C‐C motif chemokine ligand 5 and C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 10, causing inhibition of monocyte migration. These results indicate that the upregulated miR‐1 might suppress the TIME, following development of EGFR‐TKI resistance. Therefore, miR‐1 could be a clinically useful marker to predict therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma patients with EGFR‐TKI resistance.
Evaluation of a framework for safe and appropriate prescribing of psychoactive medications in a UK prison
Authors: Bebbington Emily , Lawson Justin , Nafees Sadia , Robinson Catherine , Poole Rob
Published: December 2020

Background

The widespread use of drugs in prisons leads to avoidable deaths, poorer health and a poor living environment. The contribution of psychoactive prescription drugs to this problem has received little attention in prison policy or at individual prescriber level.

Aims

To determine the extent of unsafe and inappropriate prescribing of psychoactive medications in one UK prison using a newly developed medicines optimisation framework.

Method

A medicines optimisation framework was developed based on principles of good prescribing. It was initiated on the opening of a new prison—HMP Berwyn—in February 2017. During the study period, all prisoners at HMP Berwyn were transferred from other prisons. The safety and appropriateness of psychoactive medications were evaluated de novo on reception at HMP Berwyn and during follow up, using the medicines optimisation framework.

Results

About 1941 sentenced men arrived at HMP Berwyn between February 2017 and November 2018. Nearly one‐third (634, 33%) were on a prescribed psychoactive medication. Seventy‐five percent of these (474/634) required a prescription change due to appropriateness or safety concerns. Nearly half (295, 46.5%) received changes at reception despite having already undergone medicines reconciliation at their previous prison. Forty‐three percent (275/634) received changes at follow up, most commonly those who had no prior risks identified at reception.

Conclusions

Inappropriate and unsafe prescribing of psychoactive medications is occurring in prisons despite mandatory medication reviews. Ongoing monitoring is required to reduce the risk from these medications. A medicines optimisation framework such as this could be adopted across other prisons, worldwide, to help contribute to risk reduction from drug use in prisons. Appropriately modified, a similar framework might help reduce inappropriate and harmful prescribing in hospitals and in the community.
The improvement of the functional properties of a chickpea protein isolate through proteolysis with three proteases
Authors: Goertzen Alexandre D. , Nickerson Michael T. , Tanaka Takuji
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives

Enzymatic hydrolysis has previously been shown to have beneficial influences on the protein functionality of pulse protein isolates. To apply and optimize these benefits in chickpeas, a chickpea protein isolate (CPI) was hydrolyzed with three different proteases (trypsin, pepsin, and papain), to three different degrees of hydrolysis (DH): 5%, 10%, and 15%. Changes to zeta potential, hydrophobicity, water and oil holding capacity (WHC and OHC), as well as solubility, emulsifying, and foaming properties at pH 4.0, 7.0, and 10.0 of the various hydrolysates were then quantified and compared with one another in order to determine optimal hydrolytic conditions.

Findings

Increasing length of enzymatic treatments led to a gradual increase in zeta potential, and a rise in protein hydrophobicity. The solubility of trypsin and papain hydrolyzed CPI proteins increased at pH 10.0, while minor decreases in solubility were noted at pH 7.0. Increasing length of pepsin and papain treatment was noted to improve the water holding capacity (WHC), whereas hydrolysis with all three enzymes led to decreases in oil holding capacity (OHC). The emulsifying activity index (EAI) of the CPI increased following hydrolysis with all enzymes at pH 4.0 and 10.0, while at pH 7.0 no changes were observed. The emulsifying stability index (ESI) of the CPI increased following trypsin treatment at pH 4.0; at pH 10.0 emulsions appeared stable, exhibiting no separation over a 30‐min period. Foaming capacity (FC) increased following enzyme treatments at pH 4.0, pH 7.0, and more dramatically at pH 10.0. Foaming stability (FS) worsened at pH 10.0 following higher levels of trypsin hydrolysis (DH > 10%).

Conclusions

Approximately 15% hydrolysis with papain was shown as the best conditions to augment the emulsifying, foaming and water holding properties of a CPI material, potentially allowing for the generation of specialized chickpea protein ingredients.

Significance and novelty

A total of nine distinct CPI hydrolysates were generated and compared with one another to determine optimal hydrolytic conditions with respect to the functional properties of the CPI.
Severe Graves' disease‐associated orbitopathy: A rare case of frontal bone hemangioma
Authors: Alamri Ahmad , Pauchet Daphné , Balaton André , Oriez Constance , Dupuy Olivier , Ben Hamou Adrien
Published: December 2020

Graves' orbitopathy might be severe, requiring treatment with high‐dose glucocorticoids. A lytic bone lesion, malignant lesions, and diseases resulting from bone remodeling processes (eg, Paget's disease) must be excluded by markers and imagery. Outcomes of high‐dose glucocorticoids and thyrotoxicosis must be screened and prevented.
XAD Resins for Increased Rebeccamycin Productivity in Cultivations of Lentzea aerocolonigenes
Authors: Schrinner Kathrin , Althof Kristina , Ebersbach Anna Theresia , Grosch Jan‐Hendrik , Krull Rainer
Published: December 2020

Lentzea aerocolonigenes produces the antitumor antibiotic rebeccamycin. For a medical application maximized titers and appropriate downstream processing are necessary. The addition of the adsorbents XAD 4, XAD 17 HP, and XAD 16 N was investigated for increased productivity and in situ product recovery. An increase in product titer was observed for XAD 7 HP and XAD 16 N. A combination of these particles with glass beads led to a further increase. Moreover, rebeccamycin can be adsorbed to these particles which facilitate the extraction since the liquid phase can be dispensed with.
The reaction between iodide and iodate ions – a long lasting kinetic problem
Authors: Heinzerling Peter , Schrader Frank
Published: December 2020

Zu den bekanntesten kinetisch untersuchten Reaktionen zählt die Reaktion zwischen Bromid und Bromat in saurer Lösung. Aufgrund der CMR‐Eigenschaften von Kaliumbromat gilt ein weitgehendes Verwendungsverbot in Schulen, so dass diese Reaktion im Unterricht nicht mehr experimentell untersucht werden darf. Hier wird als Alternative die Reaktion zwischen Iodid und Iodat in saurer Lösung vorgestellt. Es ergibt sich unter bestimmten Reaktionsbedingungen ein pentamolekulares Geschwindigkeitsgesetz.
Identification of Novel Fragments Binding to the PDZ1‐2 Domain of PSD‐95
Authors: Zang Jie , Ye Fei , Solbak Sara M. Ø. , Høj Lars J. , Zhang Mingjie , Bach Anders
Published: December 2020

Inhibition of PSD‐95 has emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of ischemic stroke, as shown with peptide‐based compounds that target the PDZ domains of PSD‐95. In contrast, developing potent and drug‐like small molecules against the PSD‐95 PDZ domains has so far been unsuccessful. Here, we explore the druggability of the PSD‐95 PDZ1‐2 domain and use fragment screening to investigate if this protein is prone to binding small molecules. We screened 2500 fragments by fluorescence polarization (FP) and validated the hits by surface plasmon resonance (SPR), including an inhibition counter‐test, and found four promising fragments. Three ligand efficient fragments were shown by 1H,15N HSQC NMR to bind in the small hydrophobic P0 pockets of PDZ1‐2, and one of them underwent structure‐activity relationship (SAR) studies. Overall, we demonstrate that fragment screening can successfully be applied to PDZ1‐2 of PSD‐95 and disclose novel fragments that can serve as starting points for optimization towards small‐molecule PDZ domain inhibitors.
Design and Synthesis of Mucin‐Inspired Glycopolymers
Authors: Kwan Chak‐Shing , Cerullo Antonio R. , Braunschweig Adam B.
Published: December 2020

Mucins are bottlebrush biopolymers that are glycoproteins on the surfaces of cells and as hydrogels secreted inside and outside the body. Mucin function in biology includes cell‐cell recognition, signaling, protection, adhesion, and lubrication. Because of their attractive and diverse properties, mucins have recently become the focus of synthetic efforts by researchers who hope to understand and emulate these biomaterials. This review is focused on the development of methodologies for preparing mucin‐inspired synthetic oligomers and glycopolymers, including solid‐phase synthesis, polymerization of glycosylated monomers, and post‐polymerization grafting of glycans to polymer chains. How these synthetic mucins have been used in health applications is discussed. Natural mucins are formed from a conserved set of monomers that are combined into chains of different sequences and lengths to achieve materials with widely diverse properties. Adopting this design paradigm from natural mucins could lead to next‐generation bioinspired synthetic materials.
Barium(II)–Chromium(III) Coordination Polymers Based on Dimethylmalonate Anions: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Magnetic Properties, and EPR Spectra
Authors: Bazhina Evgeniya S. , Kiskin Mikhail A. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Babeshkin Konstantin A. , Efimov Nikolay N. , Shmelev Maxim A. , Kottsov Sergey Yu. , Khoroshilov Andrey V. , Ugolkova Elena A. , Starikova Alyona A. , Korchagin Denis V. , Minin Vadim V. , Eremenko Igor L.
Published: December 2020

A new 1D coordination polymer {[Ba2Cr2(OH)2(Me2mal)4(H2O)6]·2H2O}n (1) containing binuclear structural units [Cr2(OH)2(Me2mal)4]4– was synthesized by the reaction of an inorganic chromium(III) salt with a barium salt of dimethylmalonic acid (H2Me2mal). Depending on the nature of the counterion of the starting chromium salt, the addition of an excess of H2Me2mal to the reaction mixture resulted in the formation of a new 2D polymer {[Ba2Cr(Me2mal)2(HMe2mal)2(NO3)(H2O)5]·3.55H2O}n (2) containing mononuclear units [Cr(Me2mal)2(HMe2mal)2]3– or a new 3D polymer {[BaCr(Me2mal)2(HMe2mal)(H2O)2]·H2O}n (3) composed of two types of mononuclear units, [Cr(Me2mal)2(HMe2mal)2]3– and [Cr(Me2mal)2(H2O)2]–. Magnetic measurements, EPR spectroscopy studies, and quantum chemical calculations demonstrated that compound 1 exhibits ferromagnetic exchange interactions between CrIII ions in the binuclear unit (2J = 6.77 cm–1) and displays slow relaxation of the magnetization in external dc‐magnetic field. Compound 3 has porous structure, with channels occupied by solvent water molecules. However, the dehydration of 3 is accompanied by a structural rearrangement and the collapse of the porous structure.
Enzyme‐free Recycling Amplification‐based Sensitive Electrochemical Thrombin Aptasensor
Authors: Zhang Xiuxiu , Liao Fusheng , Wang Mei , Zhang Jie , Xu Binxiang , Zhang Ling , Xiong Jun , Xiong Wei
Published: December 2020

In this work, an enzyme‐free recycling amplification‐based sensitive electrochemical thrombin aptasensor using catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) and bisferrocene was proposed for electrochemical beacon. Thrombin triggered the CHA reaction that in turn formed a number of double‐stranded complexes,which are fixed on the surface of the gold electrode through potential‐assisted Au−S deposition, and a large number of labeled bisferrocene are placed close to the gold electrode to generate electrochemical signal. The linear range of the electrochemical sensor was 0.25 pM‐2.5 nM for thrombin with detection limit of 0.18 pM. This sensor can be employed to monitor the thrombin in human serum samples.
Solid‐State Reoxidation Kinetics of A/B‐Site Substituted LaMnO3 During Solar Thermochemical CO2 Conversion
Authors: Muraleedharan Nair Mahesh , Abanades Stéphane
Published: December 2020

Perovskite oxides exhibit noteworthy performance as efficient oxygen carriers for two‐step thermochemical conversion of CO2 using concentrated solar energy. Herein, the effect of composition on the solid‐state reoxidation kinetics of La0.5Sr0.5MnO3 and LaCo0.5Mn0.5O3 oxygen carriers is investigated. Thermochemical CO2 splitting reactions are conducted at several selected temperatures and a series of kinetic models are explored. Results indicate that the most suitable model describing the reoxidation mechanism depends on the oxygen carrier. A two‐step reaction mechanism is observed for La0.5Sr0.5MnO3 (first‐order model and 2D shrinking core model) depending on the extent of conversion whereas a diffusion controlled (3D‐Ginstling) mechanism is identified for LaCo0.5Mn0.5O3. The values of apparent activation energies (Ea) are remarkably low (≈5 kJ mol−1) and even negative, indicating an “anti‐Arrhenius” behavior. Pre‐exponential factors (A) are found to be low and influenced by the model used. Enthalpies of activation (ΔH‡  = −6 to −18 kJ mol−1) depend on the extent of conversion and composition, whereas entropies of activation (ΔS‡  = −0.33 kJ K−1 mol−1) remain constant. The observed discrepancies in the reoxidation mechanism can probably be attributed to thermal stability aspects, variations in lattice functionalities during the reaction, undesired side reactions, or a combination of these effects.
Plasma Synthesized Trilayered Rhodium−Platinum−Tin Oxide Nanostructures with Enhanced Tolerance to CO Poisoning and High Electroactivity for Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Wang Haixia , Sun Shuhui , Mohamedi Mohamed
Published: December 2020

The future of fuel cells technology will require porous or very organized multicomponent catalytic layers that can be prepared by thin film growth methods. Reducing the cost of these energy systems will also necessitate that the catalytic layers be binderless and contain low amount of the noble catalyst until efficient non‐noble catalysts are discovered. To address these requirements, monolayered SnO2, Pt and Rh, bi‐layered Pt/SnO2 and Rh/Pt and novel tri‐layered Rh (various thicknesses)/Pt/SnO2 catalysts supported on carbon paper are synthesized at room temperature via pulsed laser deposition. The catalysts are evaluated for their catalytic performance for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), durability, and tolerance to CO‐poisoning. All the Rh/Pt/SnO2 catalysts produce high CO‐tolerance, high EOR catalytic activity and durability as compared to pure Pt. The possible mechanism by which SnO2 and Rh atoms enhanced the performance is also considered herein, and an optimal Rh/Pt/SnO2 structure having a 10 nm thickness of Rh layer offers a promising anode catalyst for ethanol fuel cells. Notably, the onset potential for CO oxidation is extraordinarily 430 mV lower than on Pt, and the mass activity for EOR and durability are 2.25 and 4.2 times higher than on Pt.
Modified class of explicit and enhanced stability region schemes: Application to mixed convection flow in a square cavity with a convective wall
Authors: Nawaz Yasir , Arif Muhammad Shoaib
Published: December 2020

A modification of Adams–Bashforth methods is given to construct time discretization schemes for partial differential equations. The second‐order modified method is shown to have a larger stability region than second‐order standard Adams–Bashforth for the two‐dimensional heat equation. Later the scheme is applied on considered flow problem in a square cavity. The flow problem is a modified mathematical model of the heat and mass transfer of mixed convection flow in a square cavity with effects of the inclined magnetic field and thermal radiations. In addition to this, another feature of the present contribution is to apply the coupling approach for employing a mixture of stable and unstable schemes. This coupling approach is based upon the difference quotient that has been used in the literature to construct flux limiters for reducing oscillations in the discontinuous solutions of hyperbolic conservation laws. Since proposed scheme produces oscillation in the beginning and then diverges for the chosen diffusion number that falls in the unstable region, so these oscillations, due to instability, is reduced by coupling it with the scheme that can produce the convergent solution. The convergence of the proposed scheme for the considered modified nondimensional mathematical model of mixed convection flow is also given. The improvement is shown in graphs when proposed second order in time scheme is compared with the standard second order in time Adams–Bashforth method. Also, the mixture of first‐order and unconditionally unstable Richardson's schemes is applied, and the solution is obtained, and some plots are provided.
Characterization of TERT and BRAF copy number variation in papillary thyroid carcinoma: An analysis of the cancer genome atlas study
Authors: McKelvey Brittany A. , Zeiger Martha A. , Umbricht Christopher B.
Published: December 2020

Alterations in the genome, including mutations and copy number variation (CNV), can drive cancer progression. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project studying papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) identified a number of recurrent arm‐level copy number amplifications, some spanning genes that are also commonly mutated in thyroid cancer. Herein, we focus on the role of TERT and BRAF CNV in PTC, including its relation to mutation status, gene expression, and clinicopathological characteristics. Utilizing TCGA CNV data, we identified focal amplifications and deletions involving the TERT and BRAF loci. TERT amplifications are more frequent in later stage thyroid tumors; in contrast, BRAF amplifications are not associated with stage. Furthermore, TERT amplifications are more frequently found in tumors also harboring TERT mutations, the combination further increasing TERT expression. Conversely, BRAF amplifications are more frequently found in BRAF wildtype tumors, and are more common in the follicular subtype of PTC as well as classic PTCs associated with a high follicular component and a RAS‐like expression profile (assessed by the BRAF/RAS score). This is the first study to examine the TCGA thyroid dataset for gene‐level CNV of TERT and BRAF, and their relationship with mutation status, tumor type and tumor stage. Assessing the differences in patterns of TERT and BRAF amplifications in the context of the mutation status of these genes may provide insight into the differing roles CNV can play depending on tumor type, and may lead to a better understanding of cancer drivers in thyroid cancer.
Higher order chemical process with heat transport of magnetized cross nanofluid over wedge geometry
Authors: Shah Syed Z. H. , Wahab Hafiz A. , Ayub Assad , Sabir Zulqurnain , haider Ali , Shah Syed L.
Published: December 2020

Heat transport keeps vital impact in field of engineering like heat spacing, air conditioning, refrigeration, and in chemical processing, such as heating of base and final products, heat recovery, tempering of containers, autoclaves, and reactors. This manuscript reveals theoretical and an experimental finding related for heat transport of unsteady cross nanofluid and chemical process with inclined magnetic field over the wedge. Heat transport is scrutinized with the existence of nonuniform heat sink source and radiation. Furthermore, mass transfer is studied with higher order chemical process, thermophoresis, and Brownian motion. Mathematical system produces nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) of time‐dependent velocity, energy, and concentration. Moreover, these PDEs changed into the system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The obtained ODEs are passed out through shooting technique to convert the boundary value problem into initial value problem and further bvp4c took them for numerical solution. Bvp4c is MATLAB procedure, which is most convergent for numerical solution of ODEs based on RK‐45 procedure. Many applicable parameters are inspected graphically and in tabular form. Numerical outcomes related to physical quantities are hashed out in tabular form. Chemical process boosts the heat and mass transport. Higher radiation responses higher temperature and inclined magnetic strength reduces the velocity of cross nanofluid.
Performance of Mental Health Counselors in Integrated Primary and Behavioral Health Care
Authors: Ulupinar Dogukan , Zalaquett Carlos , Kim So Rin , Kulikowich Jonna M.
Published: December 2020

Integrated primary and behavioral health care (IPBH) is becoming a preferred mode of service delivery in the United States. Integrated care includes the participation of medical and mental health professionals, such as mental health counselors. The clinical outcomes of these professionals need to be studied to determine their effectiveness in such settings. We examined the performance of 10 mental health counselors on the clinical outcome of 1,747 clients treated in an IPBH center. Analyses using growth curve modeling and pre‐post test design revealed that mental health counselors were effective overall, but they differed in client dropout rates and efficiency in reducing clients' initial symptoms. We used the analyses to rank order counselors based on their effectiveness. Counselors who were the most effective varied in their efficiency but demonstrated the lowest client dropout rates. Implications for future research and counseling practice were discussed.
Improved visible‐light photocatalytic activities of carboxylate functionalized polystyrene@Fe3O4 nanocomposite and its mechanism insight
Authors: Zarshad Nighat , Khan Iltaf , Rahman Anis Ur , Ali Asad , Zaman Saeed , Khan Shoaib , Yasmeen Humaira , Qadar Naveed , Qi Kezhen , Ni Henmei
Published: December 2020

Herein, we report a unique approach to synthesize dimpled shape carboxylate functionalized polystyrene (C‐PS), which were subsequently coated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles in situ by co‐precipitation method. The magnetization of C‐PS@Fe3O4 nanocomposite has been verified through vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurements. The amount optimized carboxylate functionalized magnetic polystyrene (C‐PS@Fe3O4) exhibits 5.2 and 2.2‐times enhancement in visible‐light photocatalytic activities for 2,4‐dichlorophenol degradation compared with that of pristine PS and C‐PS. Based on various electro‐analytical techniques like surface photovoltage spectroscopy, temperature‐programmed desorption, Uv‐DRS, Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and VSM confirming magnetic nature of C‐PS@Fe3O4. Our results suggest that the improvement in visible light activities of C‐PS@Fe3O4 are comprehensively assigned to the large and active surface area due to charge separation, catalytic functions, and magnetic nature induced by Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Finally, this work will provide new strategy to synthesize visible light active nano photocatalysts with controllable shape, which for efficient environmental remediation.
HBXIP drives metabolic reprogramming in hepatocellular carcinoma cells via METTL3‐mediated m6A modification of HIF‐1α
Authors: Yang Nanmu , Wang Tao , Li Qingjun , Han Feng , Wang Zhengzheng , Zhu Ruili , Zhou Jinxue
Published: December 2020

Cancer cells sustain high levels of glycolysis and glutaminolysis via reprogramming of intracellular metabolism, which represents a driver of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Understanding the mechanisms of cell metabolic reprogramming may present a new basis for liver cancer treatment. Herein, we collected HCC tissues and noncancerous liver tissues and found hepatitis B virus X‐interacting protein (HBXIP) was found to be upregulated in HCC tissues and associated with poor prognosis. The N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) level of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) in HCC cells was evaluated after the intervention of METTL3. The possible m6A site of HIF‐1α was queried and the binding relationship between METTL3 and HIF‐1α was verified. The interference of HBXIP suppressed HCC malignant behaviors and inhibited the Warburg effect in HCC cells. METTL3 was upregulated in HCC tissues and positively regulated by HBXIP. Overexpression of METTL3 restored cell metabolic reprogramming in HCC cells with partial loss of HBXIP. HBXIP mediated METTL3 to promote the metabolic reprogramming and malignant biological behaviors of HCC cells. The levels of total m6A in HCC cells and m6A in HIF‐1α were increased. METTL3 had a binding relationship with HIF‐1α and mediated the m6A modification of HIF‐1α. In conclusion, HBXIP drives metabolic reprogramming in HCC cells via METTL3‐mediated m6A modification of HIF‐1α.
Temperature‐mediated trade‐off between development and performance in larval wood frogs (Rana sylvatica)
Authors: Gahm Kaija , Arietta A. Z. Andis , Skelly David K.
Published: December 2020

Countergradient variation has been detected in diverse taxa. In a common manifestation, individuals from colder environments develop faster than conspecifics from warmer environments when placed in a common garden. Where such a pattern exists, it implies a trade‐off: Individuals from warmer environments have intrinsic rates of development lower than those demonstrated by other individuals of the same species. We explored a trade‐off between development rate and locomotor performance in the wood frog (Rana sylvatica), an amphibian for which countergradient variation has been well documented. We reared wood frogs from 10 populations under two temperature regimes, bracketing the temperatures observed in local natural ponds. Individuals reared under warmer conditions developed more rapidly but exhibited burst speeds 20% lower than individuals reared under colder conditions. The slope of the reaction norm was consistent across the 10 populations and thus, we found no evidence of countergradient variation in performance. Burst speed assays of wild‐caught tadpoles from the same populations showed a similar but nonsignificant trend, with greater variability among ponds. Overall, our findings support the existence of a development–performance trade‐off that may be of broad importance and which may help explain the widespread occurrence of countergradient variation.
Molecular cloning, characterization, and gene expression behavior of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors from the Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis)
Authors: Izaz Ali , Pan Tao , Wang Lin , Zhang Huabin , Duan Shulong , Li En , Yan Peng , Wu Xiaobing
Published: December 2020

The Chinese alligator is an endemic crocodilian species in China. We isolated and obtained the glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor genes coding from the kidney of Alligator sinensis by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) gene has 2343 base pairs encoding 780 amino acids, while the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) gene is 2958 bp in length encoding 985 amino acids. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to detect the distribution of messenger RNA (mRNA) levels. The maximum mRNA expressions were observed in the ovary and kidney, suggesting that these receptors may be involved in basic cellular functions or stress response of alligators. Besides this, RT‐qPCR was performed to analyze the abundance of GR and MR mRNA transcripts in early embryonic development of the Chinese alligator in the kidney, liver, and heart. The mRNA levels of GR and MR at earlier stages in kidney, liver, and heart indicates that they might involve in the transcriptional regulation of early embryos and activate many precise developmental effects in fetal tissues. We also measured the protein expression in the liver embryonic developmental stages and found that the GR and MR proteins were restricted to both the nuclei and cytoplasm. The protein expression levels in the liver at different embryonic developmental stages have extremely prominent differences. Taken together, our results showed the full coding regions of GR and MR, their characteristics, and embryonic developmental mRNA and protein expressions of both genes in A. sinensis. This study could provide the necessary information for further investigating the diverse functions of GR and MR in A. sinensis.
Desynchronized Functional Activities Between Brain White and Gray Matter in Major Depression Disorder
Authors: Zhang Yuqun , Kong Youyong , Liu Xiaoyun , Gao Heren , Yin Yingying , Hou Zhenghua , Zhang Haisan , Zhang Hongxing , Xie Chunming , Zhang Zhijun , Yuan Yonggui
Published: December 2020

Background

Alterations in gray matter (GM) have been recognized as playing an important role in the neurobiological mechanism underlying major depressive disorder (MDD) and antidepressant responses. However, little is known about white matter (WM) connectivity in MDD, leaving an incomplete understanding of the pathophysiology of the disorder.

Purpose

To examine the functional connectivity (FC) of WM, GM, and WM‐GM in MDD patients and explore the relationship between FC and antidepressant response.

Study Type

Longitudinal study.

Subjects

In all, 129 MDD patients and 89 healthy controls (HC).

Field Strength/Sequence

Whole‐brain blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) single‐shot echo planar imaging was acquired at 3.0T.

Assessment

At baseline, all participants received Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD) assessment and an fMRI scan. After 2‐ and 8‐week antidepressant treatment, patients completed the HAMD again. The HAMD reductive rate of 2‐ and 8‐weeks were calculated.

Statistical Tests

The comparisons of age, education, HAMD scores, and FC values (false discovery rate correction) between patients and controls were calculated with a two‐sample t‐test. The chi‐square test was employed to compare the differences of gender between these two groups. Correlations between FC and HAMD, as well as the reductive rate of HAMD, were analyzed with Pearson or Spearman correlation. Receiver operator curve analysis was performed to predict the antidepressant response.

Results

Compared to HC, MDD patients exhibited widespread decreases in FC of WM‐GM. Furthermore, 28 GM regions and 11 WM bundles had lower connectivity in MDD patients. At baseline, four FC of WM‐GM showed negative correlations with the HAMD scores. Six FC of WM‐GM correlated with the 2‐week reductive rate of HAMD. Moreover, FC in GM, WM, and WM‐GM also exhibited significantly positive correlations with an 8‐week reductive rate of HAMD.

Data Conclusion

The FC of WM‐GM was decreased in MDD and may play a role in its pathophysiology and antidepressant responses.

Level of Evidence

2.

Technical Efficacy Stage

2.
Physicochemical treatments for the reduction of aflatoxins and Aspergillus niger in corn grains (Zea mays)
Authors: Castro‐Ríos Katherin , Montoya‐Estrada Claudia Nohemy , Martínez‐Miranda María Marcela , Hurtado Cortés Sebastián , Taborda‐Ocampo Gonzalo
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Corn grains are commonly contaminated with mycotoxins and fungi. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reduction of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 and the inhibition of Aspergillus niger in corn grains using ultrasound, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, electrolyzed water, and sodium bicarbonate. The determination of aflatoxins was performed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection and postcolumn derivatization, and analysis of A. niger was performed by evaluating mycelial growth in potato dextrose agar. The best treatment for reducing aflatoxins and inhibiting mycelial growth was evaluated in corn contaminated with A. niger.

RESULTS

The results show a significant reduction in aflatoxins in the following order: sodium bicarbonate > ultrasound > UV > electrolyzed water for aflatoxins B1, B2, and G2. For aflatoxin G1, the order of reduction was sodium bicarbonate > ultrasound > electrolyzed water > UV, with maximum values between 70.50% and 87.03% reached with sodium bicarbonate; for the other treatments, the reduction was between 51.51% and 65.44%. Regarding the fungus, the order of inhibition in the control of mycelial growth was sodium bicarbonate > ultrasound > electrolyzed water > UV in corn grains, and inhibition of mycelial growth was obtained at a sodium bicarbonate concentration of 3.0 g L−1.

CONCLUSION

Sodium bicarbonate, electrolyzed water, ultrasound, and UV radiation inhibited the growth of A. niger on potato dextrose agar and reduced the contents of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in vitro. Sodium bicarbonate showed an ability to inhibit mycelial growth in corn grains. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry