bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute myeloid leukemia in SRP54‐mutated congenital neutropenia
Authors: Sabulski Anthony , Grier David D. , Myers Kasiani C. , Davies Stella M. , Rubinstein Jeremy D.
Published: March 2022

SRP54 mutations have recently been implicated in congenital neutropenia (CN) and the in‐frame deletion, p.Thr117del, is the most common pathogenic mutation reported. The largest study of SRP54‐mutated CN to‐date followed 23 patients for a median of 15 years. No patients developed a hematologic malignancy in that study. Given the known risk of leukemia in other CNs it is crucial to know whether patients with SRP54‐mutated CN have an increased risk of leukemia. We report the first case of leukemia in a patient with SRP54‐mutated CN. A 15‐year‐old male with SRP54‐mutated CN (p.Thr117del) was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia with myelodysplasia‐related changes on a screening bone marrow evaluation. Next generation sequencing of the leukemia cells identified CSF3R and RUNX1 mutations. These mutations commonly co‐exist in CN‐associated malignancies and suggest leukemogenesis in SRP54‐mutated CN may occur in a similar manner to other CNs. He was successfully treated with CPX‐351 followed by hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) and remains in remission at a follow‐up time of 9 months. Although conclusions from this single report must be limited, this has potentially significant implications for both screening and treatment practices for these patients, including the role and timing of HCT.
Microglial activation in Alzheimer's disease: The role of flavonoids and microRNAs
Authors: Medrano-Jiménez Elisa , Meza-Sosa Karla F , Urbán-Aragón José A , Secundino Ismael , Pedraza-Alva Gustavo , Pérez-Martínez Leonor
Published: March 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of senile dementia and is characterized by progressive cognitive impairment and neuronal degeneration. Microglial activation is an important pathologic hallmark of AD. During disease progression, microglial cells switch from an alternative or anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective profile (M2) to a classic or proinflammatory and neurotoxic profile (M1). Phenotypically, M1 microglia is characterized by the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways that cause increased expression of proinflammatory genes, including those coding for cytokines and chemokines. This microglia-mediated neuroinflammation contributes to neuronal cell death. Recent studies in microglial cells have shown that a group of plant-derived compounds, known as flavonoids, possess anti-inflammatory properties and therefore exert a neuroprotective effect through regulating microglia activation. Here, we discuss how flavonoids can promote the switch from an inflammatory M1 phenotype to an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype in microglia and how this represents a valuable opportunity for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to blunt neuroinflammation and boost neuronal recovery in AD. We also review how certain flavonoids can inhibit neuroinflammation through their action on the expression of microglia-specific microRNAs (miRNAs), which also constitute a key therapeutic approach in different neuropathologies involving an inflammatory component, including AD. Finally, we propose novel targets of microglia-specific miRNAs that may be considered for AD treatment.
DyNAMiC: A prospective longitudinal study of dopamine and brain connectomes: A new window into cognitive aging
Authors: Nordin Kristin , Gorbach Tetiana , Pedersen Robin , Panes Lundmark Vania , Johansson Jarkko , Andersson Micael , McNulty Charlotte , Riklund Katrine , Wåhlin Anders , Papenberg Goran , Kalpouzos Grégoria , Bäckman Lars , Salami Alireza
Published: March 2022

Concomitant exploration of structural, functional, and neurochemical brain mechanisms underlying age‐related cognitive decline is crucial in promoting healthy aging. Here, we present the DopamiNe, Age, connectoMe, and Cognition (DyNAMiC) project, a multimodal, prospective 5‐year longitudinal study spanning the adult human lifespan. DyNAMiC examines age‐related changes in the brain’s structural and functional connectome in relation to changes in dopamine D1 receptor availability (D1DR), and their associations to cognitive decline. Critically, due to the complete lack of longitudinal D1DR data, the true trajectory of one of the most age‐sensitive dopamine systems remains unknown. The first DyNAMiC wave included 180 healthy participants (20–80 years). Brain imaging included magnetic resonance imaging assessing brain structure (white matter, gray matter, iron), perfusion, and function (during rest and task), and positron emission tomography (PET) with the [11C]SCH23390 radioligand. A subsample (n = 20, >65 years) was additionally scanned with [11C]raclopride PET measuring D2DR. Age‐related variation was evident for multiple modalities, such as D1DR; D2DR, and performance across the domains of episodic memory, working memory, and perceptual speed. Initial analyses demonstrated an inverted u‐shaped association between D1DR and resting‐state functional connectivity across cortical network nodes, such that regions with intermediate D1DR levels showed the highest levels of nodal strength. Evident within each age group, this is the first observation of such an association across the adult lifespan, suggesting that emergent functional architecture depends on underlying D1DR systems. Taken together, DyNAMiC is the largest D1DR study worldwide, and will enable a comprehensive examination of brain mechanisms underlying age‐related cognitive decline.
In vitro analysis of genome‐engineered muscle‐derived stem cells for autoregulated anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic activity
Authors: Pferdehirt Lara , Guo Ping , Lu Aiping , Huard Mathew , Guilak Farshid , Huard Johnny
Published: March 2022

Traumatic muscle injury leads to chronic and pathologic fibrosis in skeletal muscles, primarily driven through upregulation of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1). Cell‐based therapies, such as injection of muscle‐derived stem cells (MDSCs), have shown promise in muscle repair. However, injected MDSCs in injured skeletal muscle can differentiate into myofibroblasts under the influence of TGF‐β1, and contribute to the development of fibrosis, limiting their regenerative potential. In this study, we created a “smart” cell‐based drug delivery system using CRISPR‐Cas9 to genetically engineer MDSCs capable of sensing TGF‐β1 and producing an antifibrotic biologic, decorin. These gene‐edited smart cells, capable of inhibiting fibrosis in a dose‐dependent and autoregulating manner, show anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic properties in vitro, without changing the expression of myogenic and stem cell markers as well as their cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation. Additionally, differentiation down a fibrotic lineage is reduced or eliminated in response to TGF‐β1. Our results show that gene editing can be used to successfully create smart stem cells capable of producing biologic drugs with antifibrotic capabilities in a controlled and localized manner. This system provides a tool for cell‐based drug delivery as the basis for a novel therapeutic approach for a variety of diseases.
Seasonal variations in contents of amino acids and organic acids in active mycorrhizal zone of Tricholoma matsutake#
Authors: Kim Hui‐won , Pak Song‐il , Kim Mun‐chol , Cha Jun‐myong
Published: March 2022

We monitored seasonal variations of amino acids and organic acids in the mycorrhizosphere of Tricholoma matsutake in the Yangdok region by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The contents of amino acids and organic acids identified in extracts of pine root and mycorrhizal soil displayed seasonal variations. Isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, and malonic acid were predominant at fall coinciding with the establishing of the fruit bodies. This information might help in a successful cultivation of matsutake in the future.
Does the perception of sustainability matter for environmentally responsible behavior? Empirical evidence from national park residents
Authors: Lin Yi Hsien , Lee Tsung Hung
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to examine the differences in a theoretical model using residents' sustainability perceptions, place attachment (PA), and environmentally responsible behavior in areas with unequal tourism revenue within a national park in Taiwan. The analytical findings suggested that PA affected environmentally responsible behavior at both study sites. However, socio‐culture perceptions, environmental perceptions, and life satisfaction perceptions were precedents to PA in areas with high tourism revenue, but economic perceptions and environmental perceptions influenced PA in areas with low tourism revenue. Finally, we provide managerial implications that can help national park managers achieve sustainable management goals.
Study on restoring abandoned mine lands to economically usable state using the post‐occupancy evaluation method
Authors: Chećko Agnieszka , Jelonek Iwona , Jelonek Zbigniew
Published: March 2022

Abandoned mine lands are a common element of the contemporary landscape. In administrative practice, they are rated low, yet they are of interest to informal users and scientific and cultural communities. The aim of our research was to identify the possibilities of using qualitative research methods, applied in architecture, to create friendly, urban spaces with a universal character in the areas of abandoned quarries. The study was conducted in the Sadowa Góra quarry area in southern Poland, using the post occupancy evaluation (POE) method. The results of the conducted analysis confirm the effectiveness of the POE method in restoring abandoned mine lands to an economically usable state by surveying users' opinions on accessibility, functionality, and visual quality. The applied methodology was used as effective support for the transformation process of post‐mining areas and as a tool to optimize the costs of their reclamation and maintenance.
Tinnitus in immigrants attending Swedish language education classes
Authors: Pauli Nina , Dahlin Redfors Ylva , Stubbe Jennie , Jönsson Radoslava
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of tinnitus in immigrants attending Swedish language education classes in comparison with data from the general population and tinnitus's relation to hearing in this specific population.

Methods

The study was based on prospectively collected data regarding hearing and health status in newcomers attending language classes. The examination consisted of pure tone audiometry, an otoscopic examination, and a study‐specific questionnaire including questions from the Swedish National Health Survey. Data from the Swedish general population were retrieved from the National Health Survey. Grading of hearing according to the World Health Organization was applied.

Results

A total of 188 study participants were included in the study. Tinnitus was reported by 38% of the immigrants, and severe tinnitus was reported by 8%. Corresponding percentages from the general population were 17% and 3%. High‐frequency hearing loss (PTAh3 > 25 worse ear) was found to be a significant predictor for tinnitus (p = 0.032, odds ratio (OR): 2.74 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40–5.35]). Additionally, self‐reported general health significantly predicted tinnitus, with an increased risk of tinnitus relating to worse general health (p < .001, OR: 2.43 [95% CI: 1.66–3.57]).

Conclusion

Severe tinnitus was more than three times as common in the immigrant participants compared to the Swedish population. High‐frequency hearing loss and self‐reported worse general health were predictors for tinnitus.

Level of Evidence

1b
Regulating Surface Topography of Liquid‐Crystalline Polymers by External Stimuli
Authors: Ji Yufan , Yang Bowen , Cai Feng , Yu Haifeng
Published: March 2022

Many polymer materials can respond to external stimuli, so their surface topographies can be regulated in order to achieve specific functions, such as fabrication of lens arrays, control of cell adhesion, and manipulation of object movement. Among them, liquid‐crystalline polymers are the most promising because their unique properties of self‐organization, molecular ordering, and physical anisotropy enable themselves to generate complicated deformation when external stimuli are applied. Here, this work focuses on the principle of topographical deformation of liquid‐crystalline polymers induced by various external stimuli, giving some examples about how to modulate these surface patterns. Accordingly, potential applications of switchable surface topography are presented in the field of photonics, biology, and mechanics. Finally, the existing problems are proposed and future directions in this topic are given an outlook. This review is anticipated to offer new insights and guidelines for developing stimuli‐responsive polymer materials with broader applications.
Preparation and Characterization of Intrinsically Compatibilized Thermoplastic Polyurethane and Silicone Rubber
Authors: Cui Yongyin , Yan Tongtong , Pan Hongwei , Sun Hao , Bai Xiaojun , Cao Lan , Zong Chengzhong
Published: March 2022

To combine the excellent properties of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with methyl vinyl silicone rubber (VMQ), thermoplastic dynamic vulcanizates (TPVs) are synthesized. An essentially compatibilized method is used to resolve the thermodynamic incompatibility between TPU and VMQ. The principle is that the hydroxybutane‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) block on the TPU will increase the microphase separation of the matrix, but it will also increase the phase compatibility through similar compatibility with VMQ. Moreover, a series of effects of PDMS on the microstructure and macroscopic properties of TPV have been explored to find the influence law of PDMS, which will guide the application of TPV in various environments.
Phase Diagram of Tapered Copolymers Based on Isoprene and Styrene
Authors: Galanos Eftyxis , Wahlen Christian , Butt Hans‐Juergen , Frey Holger , Floudas George
Published: March 2022

Although several phase diagrams of block copolymers prepared by sequential monomer addition are known today, the phase diagrams of the corresponding tapered copolymers have not been reported in detail and this despite the industrial importance of the latter. A phase diagram based on a series of tapered diblock copolymers is reported, generated by thesec‐butyllithium initiated statistical anionic copolymerization of styrene and isoprene in cyclohexane. This affords copolymers with polyisoprene volume fractions,f, in the range of 0.43 < f < 0.82 and total molar mass in the range of 46–160 kg mol–1. The phase diagram consists of lamellae, hexagonally packed cylinders, weakly ordered hexagonally packed cylinders (CYL), and perforated (PL) as well as irregular bicontinuous morphologies. The phase state in the tapered copolymers bears some similarities and several distinct differences in comparison to the respective copolymers prepared by conventional sequential monomer addition. It is shown that the weakly ordered CYL/PL morphologies comprise a large part of the phase diagram that is significantly extended in comparison to diblock copolymers prepared sequentially. On the other hand, the composition range for the bicontinuous morphologies is similar in the two systems (0.64 < fPI < 0.68).
SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant: Immune escape and vaccine development
Authors: Ao Danyi , Lan Tianxia , He Xuemei , Liu Jian , Chen Li , Baptista‐Hon Daniel T. , Zhang Kang , Wei Xiawei
Published: March 2022

New genetic variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) constantly emerge through unmitigated spread of the virus in the ongoing Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Omicron (B.1.1.529), the latest variant of concern (VOC), has so far shown exceptional spread and infectivity and has established itself as the dominant variant in recent months. The SARS‐CoV‐2 spike glycoprotein is a key component for the recognition and binding to host cell angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 receptors. The Omicron variant harbors a cluster of substitutions/deletions/insertions, and more than 30 mutations are located in spike. Some noticeable mutations, including K417N, T478K, N501Y, and P681H, are shared with the previous VOCs Alpha, Beta, Gamma, or Delta variants and have been proven to be associated with higher transmissibility, viral infectivity, and immune evasion potential. Studies have revealed that the Omicron variant is partially resistant to the neutralizing activity of therapeutic antibodies and convalescent sera, which poses significant challenges for the clinical effectiveness of the current vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. We provide a comprehensive analysis and summary of the epidemiology and immune escape mechanisms of the Omicron variant. We also suggest some therapeutic strategies against the Omicron variant. This review, therefore, aims to provide information for further research efforts to prevent and contain the impact of new VOCs during the ongoing pandemic.
Impacts of top management team fault‐line on firm's innovation—Financial slack over‐investment and underinvestment
Authors: Song Yun , He Hongqu , Yan Caiyu
Published: March 2022

This paper aims to how the top management team (TMT) fault‐line affects firm's innovation based on the data of Chinese listed companies from 2009 to 2018. We describe innovation from two dimensions (quantity and quality) in order to better demonstrating of firm's innovation. The empirical results find that the intensity of TMT fault‐line has significant positive impacts on both quantity and quality. Then, we propose three potential mechanisms that include financial slack, over‐investment, and underinvestment and further discuss and explore them. It is found that the intensity of TMT fault‐line promotes the quantity and of innovation through decreasing financial slack, however, cannot affect the quality of innovation. There is a significant negative relationship between TMT fault‐line and over‐investment that enterprise should reduce over‐investment to trigger both quantity and quality. Finally, the results show that TMT fault‐line could alleviate underinvestment and then improve firm's innovation both on quantity and quality. This paper also has verified the robustness of estimation according to instrumental variable method, alternative variables, and adjusting time windows.
The impact of fiscal decentralization on the efficiency in social housing provision: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Junhua , Liu Na
Published: March 2022

This study examines the impact mechanism of fiscal decentralization on the overall efficiency, scale efficiency, and management efficiency of social housing provision in China. We find that fiscal decentralization is negatively related to the overall efficiency and management efficiency but has no impact on scale efficiency. Further, fiscal decentralization decreases management efficiency by increasing local governments' dependence on land finance. From the point of regional heterogeneity, fiscal decentralization in the Chinese eastern region has led to a significant decrease in management efficiency while that of the middle and western regions is insignificant.
A novel synonymous KMT2B variant in a patient with dystonia causes aberrant splicing
Authors: Grosz Bianca R. , Tisch Stephen , Tchan Michel C. , Fung Victor S. C. , Darveniza Paul , Fellner Avi , Kurian Manju A. , McLean Alison , Tomlinson Susan E. , Smyth Renee , Devery Sophie , Wu Kathy H. C. , Kennerson Marina L. , Kumar Kishore R.
Published: March 2022

Background

Heterozygous KMT2B variants are a common cause of dystonia. A novel synonymous KMT2B variant, c.5073C>T (p.Gly1691=) was identified in an individual with childhood‐onset progressive dystonia.

Methods

The splicing impact of c.5073C>T was assessed using an in vitro exon‐trapping assay. The genomic region of KMT2B exons 23–26 was cloned into the pSpliceExpress plasmid between exon 2 and 3 of the rat Ins2 gene. The c.5073C>T variant was then introduced through site‐directed mutagenesis. The KMT2B wild‐type and c.5073C>T plasmids were transfected separately into HeLa cells and RNA was extracted 48 hours after transfection. The RNA was reverse transcribed to produce cDNA, which was PCR amplified using primers annealing to the flanking rat Ins2 sequences.

Results

Sanger sequencing of the PCR products revealed that c.5073C>T caused a novel splice donor site and therefore a 5‐bp deletion of KMT2B exon 23 in mature mRNA, leading to a coding frameshift and premature stop codon (p.Lys1692AsnfsTer7).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a KMT2B synonymous variant associated with dystonia. Reassessment of synonymous variants may increase diagnostic yield for inherited disorders including monogenic dystonia. This is of clinical importance, given the generally favourable response to deep brain stimulation for KMT2B‐related dystonia.
Soil science education: A multinational look at current perspectives
Authors: Brevik Eric C. , Krzic Maja , Muggler Cristine , Field Damien , Hannam Jacqueline , Uchida Yoshi
Published: March 2022

Soil knowledge is essential to address modern global challenges. Soil science education began with soil survey and agricultural activities, with a focus on the traditional subdisciplines of soil chemistry, soil physics, pedology, soil mineralogy, and soil biology. Soil education has evolved to address the needs of an increasing variety of fields and increasingly complex issues, as seen through the move to teach soil content in programs such as biological and ecological sciences, environmental science, and geosciences. A wide range of approaches have been used to teach soil topics in the modern classroom, including not only traditional lecture and laboratory techniques but also soil judging, online tools, computer graphics, animations, and game‐based learning, mobile apps, industry partners, open‐access materials, and flipped classrooms. The modern soil curriculum needs to acknowledge the multifunctionality of soils and provide a suite of conduits that connect its traditional subdisciplines with other cognate areas. One way to accomplish this may be to shift from the traditional subdiscipline‐based approach to soil science education to a soil functions approach. Strategies to engage the public include incorporating soil topics into primary and secondary school curricula, engaging the public through museums and citizen science projects, and explaining the significance of soil to humanity. Soil education has many challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.
Reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization for fabrication of polymer cations‐adjustable porous materials with excellent antibacterial activity
Authors: Guo Wenling , Cao Peng , Dai Fengli , Li Yonggang , Wang Rongmin , Song Pengfei , He Yufeng
Published: March 2022

The reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT) is an effective method to control chain growth and regulate active centers in functional materials. Herein, a novel antibacterial material, polymer cations‐adjustable porous materials (PCaPM), was successfully synthesized by RAFT and quaternization. First, using 2‐(dodecylsulfanylthiocarbonylsulfanyl)‐2‐methylpropionic acid as the chain transfer agent of RAFT, methyl methacrylate and 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate as comonomers, and ethylene dimethacrylate as crosslinking agent, the light‐yellow crosslinked block copolymer (PM‐PDE), was synthesized by RAFT polymerization. Second, a series of porous materials (PCaPM) were obtained by quaternization of PM‐PDE with alternative alkyl halide and swelling effects in water. The composition and structure of PM‐PDE and PCaPM were characterized by scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectrometer, Fourier transform infrared spectra, 1H‐NMR, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Their antibacterial properties were also evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Valsa mali. Remarkably, PCaPM, containing tertiary amine and possessing high porosity and large specific surface area, presented excellent antibacterial activity. Hence, the resultant PCaPM exhibited excellent antibacterial activity due to the quaternary ammonium salts groups, which has great prospects in application in medical treatment, agricultural antibiotic, emulator, and sewage treatment.
Enhanced mechanical properties of poly(L‐lactide) braided stent with six‐arm poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) coating cross‐linked by hexamethylene diisocyanate
Authors: Deng Dongwen , Tian Yuan , Liu Muqing , Cheng Jie , Wu Gensheng , Zhang Yi , Zhao Gutian , Ni Zhonghua
Published: March 2022

Compared with traditional metal stents, biodegradable polymer stents have better biocompatibility but poorer mechanical properties in the treatment of vascular stenosis. It is necessary to improve the mechanical properties of biodegradable polymer stents for further application. For this purpose, we prepared a poly(L‐lactide) braided stent covered with six‐arm poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (6S‐PLCL) coating cross‐linked by hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) in different proportions. The coating causes an effective constraint on the movement of the monofilaments in the axial direction at the intersection. Due to this constraint, the coating enhanced mechanical properties of the stent and effectively reduced the axial elongation after crimping. Furthermore, the coated stent with the mass ratio of 5:1 (6S‐PLCL:HDI) showed the highest chronic outward force and the lowest axial elongation compared to the other mass ratios. The results can provide suggestions for improving the mechanical properties of polymer‐braided stents as compared to traditional metal stents.
Demand‐only patient‐controlled analgesia for treatment of acute vaso‐occlusive pain in sickle cell disease
Authors: Carullo Veronica , Morrone Kerry , Weiss Meagan , Choi Jaeun , Gao Qi , Pisharoty Shantanu , Moody Karen , Manwani Deepa
Published: March 2022

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic illness that is associated with frequent admissions for vaso‐occlusive episodes (VOE). Opioids are frequently utilized in pain management, but dosing is often provider dependent. Opioids cause both short‐term and long‐term side effects, so the minimal effective dose is desired. This study examined demand‐only patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) in pediatric patients.

Methods

A new clinical practice guideline (CPG) for a single institution was implemented, which eliminated basal infusion dosing for PCAs on hospital admission. The primary aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate length of stay (LOS) before and after implementation of a CPG of demand‐only PCA and, in a selected subpopulation, addition of short‐term methadone. Secondary aims included opioid utilization, acute chest syndrome (ACS), and hypoxia. Inclusion criteria included SCD, ≤21 years of age, uncomplicated VOE admission, and ≥ 3 and ≤ 8 hospital admissions for SCD pain control within one calendar year.

Results

LOS decreased postintervention (7.2 ± 5.1 vs 4.5 ± 3.8 days, P < 0.001). Mean total opioid utilization in morphine equivalents mg/kg markedly decreased between the cohorts (13.3 ± 33.8 vs 3.6 ± 3.0, P < 0.001). ACS (21.9% vs 2.8%, P = 0.004) and hypoxia (28% vs 6.9%, P< 0.001) decreased significantly as well.

Conclusion

Bolus PCA dosing of opioids resulted in decreased LOS and reductions in opioid utilization, hypoxia, and ACS.
Effect of polar groups of polystyrenes on the self‐assembly of breath figure arrays
Authors: Zhou Di , Wu Bai‐Heng , Yang Wen‐Wu , Li Xiao , Zhu Liang‐Wei , Xu Zhi‐Kang , Wan Ling‐Shu
Published: March 2022

The breath figure (BF) process has been widely used to prepare patterned porous films. The mechanism remains to be further elucidated, especially how polymer architectures affect the stability of water droplets and the pore structure. Polystyrenes (PS) was functionalized with a series of polar groups both in chain middle and chain end, which was synthesized by using difunctional atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiators with the combination of nucleophilic substitution of the end bromine. It is found that PS with polar groups, which help to reduce interfacial tension, tends to form regular patterns at low concentration and to generate multilayered pores. The coalescence resistance measurement was performed to characterize the stabilization of water droplets from polymers by precipitation. The results show opposite trend with the results of the BF process, indicating a minor role played by polymer precipitation on microdroplets stabilization. We reveal that addition of only an oxyethyl group in the chain middle of PS contributes to the formation of ordered patterns. This study helps to shed light on the impact of polymer architectures on the self‐assembly behavior in the BF process.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Biheterocycles Containing Indole and 5,6‐Dihydropyridin‐2(1H)‐one or α‐Methylene‐β‐butyrolactam Scaffolds
Authors: Salah Kennouche , Blanco‐López Ester , Sirvent Ana , Behloul Cherif , Nájera Carmen , De Gracia Retamosa M. , Sansano José M. , Yus Miguel , Foubelo Francisco
Published: March 2022

Indium‐mediated allylation of N‐tert‐butanesulfinyl imines derived from indole‐2 and 3‐carbaldehydes 3 and 5 with allylic bromides 6, proceed with high diastereoselectivity. Homoallylic amide derivatives 13 and 14 are transformed into dihydropyridinones 15 and 16, upon successive desulfinylation, N‐acylation with acryloyl chloride and ring‐closing‐metathesis. Desulfinylation of amine ester derivatives 17 and 18, obtained when ethyl 2‐(bromomethyl)acrylate (6 b) is used as the allylating reagent, lead to the corresponding α‐methylene‐γ‐butyrolactams 19 and 20, in modest yields.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Thiazole Analogs with Both Anti‐Proliferative and Mechanistic Analyses and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Bimoussa Abdoullah , Oubella Ali , El Mansouri Az‐eddine , Fawzi Mourad , Laamari Yassine , Auhmani Abdelouahed , Itto My Youssef Ait , Morjani Hamid , Auhmani Aziz
Published: March 2022

Herein, we report the synthesis of a novel series of β‐himachalene derivatives, including semicarbazones, thiosemicarbazones, and thiazoles. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by NMR, IR, and HRMS analysis methods. The in vitro antitumor activity of these compounds was evaluated by the MTT assay against four human cancer cell lines, such as fibrosarcoma (HT‐1080), breast adenocarcinoma (MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231), and lung carcinoma (A‐549), and the results indicated that all compounds showed moderate to significant cytotoxic activities against all cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 7.19±0.30 to 50 μM. The mechanism of action of the most cytotoxic compounds 2 b and 7 b suggested that they induced apoptosis through caspase‐3/7 activation, and elicited G2/M‐phase arrest with the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in HT‐1080 cells. The molecular docking showed that compounds 2 b and 7 b activated the caspase‐3 by forming a stable protein‐ligand complex.
Thermal Property Control by Copolymerization of Trimethylene Carbonate and Its Derivative Bearing Triphenylmethyl Group
Authors: Miyake Rikyu , Maehara Akari , Chanthaset Nalinthip , Ajiro Hiroharu
Published: March 2022

In order to tune the thermal properites of ester‐free type poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) derivatives, the copolymers of trimethylene carbonate (TMC) and a TMC derivative bearing a triphenylmethyl group (TrTMC) were synthesized with various copolymerization ratios. The copolymers of TMC and TrTMC were obtained by varying the feeding ratio of their monomers with good yields as hexane‐isopropanol (9/1, v/v) insoluble part. The structures were confirmed by both FT‐IR and 1H NMR spectra, showing the copolymer composition was controlled in a good manner. The thermal degradation temperature at 10 % weight loss gradually increased from 198 °C to 301 °C, depending on the introduced amount of TrTMC, indicating that the thermal decomposition was based on the monomer unit structure. The glass transition temperatures of copolymers also gradually increased from −38 °C to 57 °C. These results show that the thermal properties of the ester free type TMC derivatives could be overcome by the copolymerization, and that the thermal properties could be varied by controlling the feed ratio of comonomers.
Study on Spectral Method and Computational Simulation of Chlorinated Bisphenol Compound and Thyroxine‐Binding Globulin
Authors: Huang Xiaomei , Huang Muwei , Yong Li , Jia Dan , Miao Wangli , Yi Zhongsheng , Liu Hongyan
Published: March 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) and chlorinated derivatives (Chlorinated bisphenol A, Cl‐BPA) are recognized as chemicals that destroy the endocrine system and widely exist in the environment. Because theirs structure is similar to thyroxin, it can compete after binding with Cl‐BPA were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy, Förster resonance energy transfer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, molecular docking and quantum chemistry. The results of fluorescence experiments show that Cl‐BPA can quench the fluorescence of TBG by static quenching and non‐radiative energy transfer. The number of binding sites (n) of Cl‐BPA‐TBG complex is about 1, and the binding constant (Ka) is greater than 1.00×106 L⋅mol−1. Combined with thermodynamic parameter analysis and molecular docking analysis, Cl‐BPA can bind to TBG through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobicity. Quantum chemical analysis further confirmed that the oxygen atoms in Cl‐BPA compounds are easy to form hydrogen bonding forces with NH and OH in TBG. Further molecular dynamics simulation analysis showed that the protein structure changed after Cl‐BPA combined with TBG. In this study, we have a deep understanding of the interaction mechanism between Cl‐BPA and thyroid protein through various spectral experiments and computer simulation methods.
A Novel One‐Step Synthesis of Silicon‐Containing Arylacetylene Resin Catalyzed by Et2Zn with Excellent Processability and Thermal Properties
Authors: Chen Fan , Dong Sensen , Zhao Chuanqing , Hu Wei , Wang Guihui , Hu Yanhong , Deng Shifeng
Published: March 2022

A novel one‐step synthesis of silicon‐containing arylacetylene resin (PSA) catalyzed by Et2Zn was reported. PSA‐Et2Zn was prepared by the reaction between diethynylbenzene and dichlorodimethylsilane in the presence of diethylzinc. The structure of PSA‐Et2Zn was determined and the reaction mechanism was proposed. In addition, the processability, thermal curing behavior, and thermal properties were studied. When compared with the zinc powder catalysis method, the Et2Zn catalysis method demonstrates a greater effectiveness in avoiding the formation of olefinic products at the ends of the molecular chain, which can improve thermal capabilities. The results show that PSA‐Et2Zn possesses excellent processability and thermal properties. PSA‐Et2Zn has a wide processing window of 35∼182 °C and the thermal crosslinking reactions of PSA‐Et2Zn resin are mild. The cured PSA‐Et2Zn shows high thermal stability with a residue yield up to 87.9 % at 800 °C. Furthermore, the temperature at 5 % weight loss in nitrogen and air atmospheres is 584 °C and 539 °C, respectively.
Deriving and evaluating a fault model for testing data science applications
Authors: Aftab Jilani Atif , Sherin Salman , Ijaz Sidra , Zohaib Iqbal Muhammad , Uzair Khan Muhammad
Published: March 2022

Data science (DS) applications not only suffer from traditional software faults but may also suffer from data‐specific and model‐related faults. Fault models play an important role in evaluating and designing tests for testing DS applications. The existing fault models do not consider DS specific faults. In this study, we built a fault model DS applications. We investigate the faults by using diverse approaches: (i) a multi‐vocal literature survey of published literature, (ii) semi‐structured interviews of industry experts. The Multi‐vocal study allows us to synthesize the existing knowledge from researchers and practitioners. Qualitative data from semi‐structured interviews provide us with insights into the nature of faults encountered by practitioners. We combine the results of (i) and (ii) to derive a detailed fault model. The developed fault model is further validated through a quantitative survey of industry practitioners, and the respondents were asked to identify the faults from our proposed fault model that they have experienced and classify those faults based on their severity as perceived by practitioners and its frequency. The results show that practitioners consider prediction bias and model decay as the most severe faults while data sampling and splitting faults along with feature engineering faults are the most frequent.
NH4Br‐Assisted Two‐Step‐Processing of Guanidinium‐Rich Perovskite Films for Extremely Stable Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells in Ambient Air
Authors: Li Yao , Li Siqi , Li Yan , Sun Xiangnan , Lv Xinding , Zheng Yan-Zhen , Huang Meilan , Tao Xia
Published: March 2022

The substitution of a portion of methylammonium (MA) for guanidinium (GA) has been verified to be able to enhance the stability of MA‐based devices. However, high‐dose guanidinium cation will introduce localized distortions to the perovskite lattice structure and destroy the microstructure of the perovskite films, impairing the stability and reproducibility of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) eventually. Herein, for the first time, the NH4Br‐assisted all‐atmospheric two‐step process is adopted to fabricate GA‐rich (20%) perovskite films. The NH4Br induces the formation of the intermediate phase NH4PbI3 and alleviates the disorder of the octahedron caused by the big GA. Consequently, the modified perovskite film shows increased tolerance for the roughness ﬂuctuation and reduced risk of forming voids and pinholes. The fabricated compact GA‐rich perovskite films behave extremely well in photovoltaic performance when assembled as carbon‐based perovskite solar cells, delivering a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.19% and stability against moisture and sunlight. Especially, the unencapsulated devices in ambient air sustain 95.1%, 91.8%, and 95.7% of their initial PCEs after 2400 h of storage, after 1000 h of 65 °C heat environment, and after 800 h of sunlight illumination, respectively.
Trends of surface water quality of the Krishna River, India during the urbanization process
Authors: Rentachintala Lakshmi Raghu Nagendra Prasad , Mutukuru Gangireddy Muni Reddy , Mohapatra Pranab Kumar
Published: March 2022

In the present study, Amaravati, the proposed city of India is considered to assess the impacts of urbanization on water quality of the Krishna River in the vicinity. Long‐term surface water quality data of various parameters of Krishna River are obtained from Central Water Commission (CWC). Trends of various parameters are analyzed using a modified version of Mann‐Kendall (M‐K) test; bootstrapped M‐K trend test with optional bias corrected pre‐whitening and R programming are used affecting water quality prior to and at the commencement of urbanization. During the onset of urbanization, minimum BOD is decreased from 0.49 to 0.2 mg/L, while the maximum BOD is increased by 67.7%. Dissolved oxygen's (DO) minimum value is decreased by 29.33% while maximum DO value is decreased by 4.47% at the beginning of urbanization. During the process of urbanization, total coliform's minimum count is increased to 330 from 2 MPN/100 ml while the maximum count of total coliforms is increased to 16,000 from 2400 MPN/100 ml. Faecal coilform's minimum count is increased from 2 to 80 MPN/100 ml while maximum count is increased to 16,000 from 800 MPN/100 ml during urbanization. It is found that due to urbanization, pH, DO values exceed the allowable limit.
Access to Employment of the Second Generations in France: Unequal Role of Family and Personal Networks by Origins and Gender
Authors: Brinbaum Yaël
Published: March 2022

Using data from the Trajectories and Origins survey (TeO), this chapter investigates the role of networks in access to employment of descendants of immigrants in France. I compare the recruitment channels and the type of networks used by various origin groups and the majority population. And I analyse the determinants of obtaining a job through family ties or personal networks, disentangling the effects of origin from other individual characteristics, and the nature of the job obtained. I show that the use of networks – and the kind of networks - to get jobs varies by origin groups and by gender. Within-group differences exist also according to education, family background and place of residence, as well as by sector of employment. Controlling for similar characteristics, family ties play help descendants of migrants from Turkey to get a job, and to a lesser extent, descendants from Portugal. This helps explain ethnic segregation and the quality of the jobs of these groups. Descendants of migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa and from North Africa were less likely to obtain less their job through networks. This is especially true for women, who compensate by using more formal methods. These groups would need stronger networks or intermediaries to provide trusted information to employers and reduce discrimination and racism. This chapter thus contributes to a better understanding of the inequalities faced by various origin groups in the French labour market.
Schaubilder als Formulare der Organisation. Fritz Nordsieck und die graphische Analyse von Betriebsabläufen
Authors: Krajewski Markus
Published: March 2022

Das Kapitel unternimmt zunächst den Versuch einer vierstufigen Minimalontologie des Formulars, um in einem zweiten Schritt die Relation von Formularen und Formatierungen zu untersuchen und schließlich die Organisation und Erstellung von Formularen mit Hilfe von Schaubildern (und auch umgekehrt: die Erstellung und Organisation von Schaubildern mit Hilfe von Formularen) anhand eines historischen Beispiels zu illustrieren.
Formular und digitaler Paratext. Geschichte des Facebook-Accountnamens
Authors: Paßmann Johannes , Gerzen Lisa , Helmond Anne , Jansma Robert
Published: March 2022

Der Name eines Social-Media-Accounts fungiert stets als digitaler Paratext. Der Aufsatz schreibt deshalb eine Geschichte des Facebook-Accountnamens. Hierbei spielten diverse Akteure eine Rolle, insbesondere die Firma Facebook selbst mit ihren frühen Formularen und Regularien, aber auch Aktivist:innen, die das Recht erkämpften, mit einem anderen Namen als dem von Facebook definierten „real name” schreiben zu dürfen. Es wird mithin die Frage diskutiert, durch welche Technologien und Praktiken das semantisch folgenreiche Formular der Namensgebung die Form und Funktion hat, die heute beobachtbar ist.
Decay of Solutions to the Klein–Gordon Equation on Some Expanding Cosmological Spacetimes
Authors: Natário José , Sasane Amol
Published: March 2022

The decay of solutions to the Klein–Gordon equation is studied in two expanding cosmological spacetimes, namely

the de Sitter universe in flat Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) form and

the cosmological region of the Reissner–Nordström–de Sitter (RNdS) model.

Using energy methods, for initial data with finite higher-order energies, decay rates for the solution are obtained. Also, a previously established decay rate of the time derivative of the solution to the wave equation, in an expanding de Sitter universe in flat FLRW form, is improved, proving Rendall’s conjecture. A similar improvement is also given for the wave equation in the cosmological region of the RNdS spacetime.
Numerical Simulation of Hydraulic Fracturing in Enhanced Geothermal Systems Considering Thermal Stress Cracks
Authors: Zhou Ziyang , Mikada Hitoshi , Takekawa Junichi , Xu Shibo
Published: March 2022

With the increasing attention to clean and economical energy resources, geothermal energy and enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) have gained much importance in recent years. For the efficient development of deep geothermal reservoirs, it is crucial to understand the mechanical behavior of reservoir rock and its interaction with injected fluid under high-temperature and high confining pressure environments for employing hydraulic stimulation technologies. In the present study, we develop a novel numerical scheme based on the distinct element method (DEM) to simulate the failure behavior of rock by considering the influence of thermal stress cracks and high confining pressure for EGS. The proposed methodology is validated by comparing uniaxial compression tests at various temperatures and biaxial compression tests at different confining pressures with laboratory experimental results. The numerical results indicate a good agreement in terms of failure models and stress-strain curves with those of laboratory experiments. We then apply the developed scheme to the hydraulic fracturing simulations under various temperatures, confining pressures, and injection fluid conditions. Based on our numerical results, the number of hydraulic cracks is proportional to the temperature. At a high-temperature and low confining pressure environment, a complex crack network with large crack width can be observed, whereas the generation of the micro-cracks is suppressed in high confining pressure conditions. In addition, high-viscosity injection fluid tends to induce more hydraulic cracks. Since the crack network in the geothermal reservoir is an essential factor for the efficient production of geothermal energy, the combination of the above factors should be considered in hydraulic fracturing treatment in EGS.
Wie kann wissenschaftliches Arbeiten in der Medizin vermittelt werden? Digitale Lehre in Zeiten der COVID-Pandemie am Beispiel der HNO-Heilkunde
Authors: Rauch A. K. , Offergeld C. , Ketterer Manuel Christoph
Published: March 2022

Hintergrund

Um aus der Not der Umstellung der Lehre in Zeiten der COVID-Pandemie eine Tugend zu machen, entwickelten wir das Konzept eines neuen digitalen Seminars zum wissenschaftlichen Arbeiten. Digitale Kompetenz begründet den kompetenten Umgang mit Daten in medizinischer Lehre und wissenschaftlicher Ausbildung. Diese Studie präsentiert die Ergebnisse der studentischen Lehrevaluation des Seminars mit Fokus auf den Erwerb von digitaler und wissenschaftlicher Kompetenz.

Methode

In diese prospektive Fragebogen-Studie wurden 265 Studierende eingeschlossen. Das Seminar beinhaltete eine Einführung über die Kriterien guten wissenschaftlichen Arbeitens, gefolgt von einer individuellen Arbeitsphase der Studenten mit Bearbeitung einer wissenschaftlichen Publikation und selbstständigen Erstellung des zugehörigen Abstracts mit abschließender Evaluation.

Ergebnisse

Das Seminar wurde insgesamt gut bewertet. In Freitext-Kommentaren wurde deutlich, dass sich die Studierenden statt digitaler Lehre dennoch Anwesenheitsseminare zum Thema wünschten. Die Studierenden gaben an, dass ihre wissenschaftliche Kompetenz durch das digitale Seminar und das selbständige Verfassen eines Abstracts verbessert wurde.

Schlussfolgerung

Die digitale Lehre wurde von den Studierenden zwar nicht ausschließlich positiv bewertet, verbesserte jedoch deren subjektive wissenschaftliche Kompetenz und erfüllte deren Wunsch einer digitalen Transformation der Lehre und damit auch die Ziele des neuen Nationalen Kompetenzbasierten Lernzielkatalogs der Medizin.