bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral and Periodontal Manifestations of COVID-19 and its Plausible Association with Periodontal Disease
Authors: Ramkumar Narayane , Sankar Hanumanth
Published: December 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has caused a significant and urgent threat to the global health. It has markedly affected the delivery of healthcare services all over the world. Early diagnosis of the disease is imperative to contain the spread of the viral infection. The virus can also lead to potential systemic complications such as lungs involvement, skin, and oral manifestations. The presence of oral lesions is emerging evidence that may indicates the presence of COVID-19 infection. Since, the virus has affinity for Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE2) receptors present in the respiratory tract, oral mucosa, tongue and salivary glands; therefore, the oral cavity serves as a major habitat for invasion of the virus. This review aimed to discuss the oral and periodontal manifestations of COVID-19. Articles between December 2019 and April 2021 were searched for this narrative review in Pub Med, Scopus, Science Direct related to COVID-19 and its oral manifestations, using the following terms: “Corona virus,” “COVID-19,” and “SARS-CoV-2” in combination with “Stomatognathic diseases,” “Oral manifestation,” and “Mouth diseases” and "Periodontal diseases". The oral manifestations commonly associated with COVID-19 are salivary gland disorders, xerostomia, alteration of taste and smell and lesions in oral mucosa. The appearance of these oral manifestations during the asymptomatic phase of disease helps in early identification of the disease. The recent COVID-19 infection has been strongly associated with the appearance and establishment of cytokine storm. It is found that many components of the cytokine storm are common with the cytokine expression found in periodontitis. This narrative review aims at exploring the association between COVID-19 and periodontal disease through their cytokine profiles.
Suppressing the Jahn–Teller Effect in Mn‐Based Layered Oxide Cathode toward Long‐Life Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xiao Zhitong , Xia Fanjie , Xu Linhan , Wang Xuanpeng , Meng Jiashen , Wang Hong , Zhang Xiao , Geng Lishan , Wu Jinsong , Mai Liqiang
Published: December 2021

Mn‐based layered oxides are one of the most appealing cathodes for potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) because of their high theoretical capacity. However, the Jahn–Teller effect of Mn3+ induces detrimental structural disorder and irreversible phase transition, leading to inferior cycling stability. Herein, an efficient strategy to suppress the Jahn–Teller effect in Mn‐based layered oxides by regulating the Mn average valence is demonstrated. To verify this strategy, Ti4+ and Mg2+ ions are chosen and introduced into the layered oxides (K0.5Mn0.7Co0.2Fe0.1O2), which can enhance the structural stability but have opposite effects on the regulation of Mn3+/4+ valence. The K0.5Mn0.6Co0.2Fe0.1Mg0.1O2 with a higher Mn valence (4+) exhibits long‐term cycling stability as a PIB cathode compared to the K0.5Mn0.6Co0.2Fe0.1Ti0.1O2 with a lower Mn valence (3.667+). Meanwhile, the detrimental phase transition from P3 to O3 caused by Jahn–Teller effect is completely suppressed, and is replaced by a highly reversible single‐phase solid solution reaction for K0.5Mn0.6Co0.2Fe0.1Mg0.1O2. The enhanced cycling stability and single‐phase reaction are attributed to the suppressed Jahn–Teller effect via Mn valence regulation, confirmed by first‐principles calculations. Therefore, this discovery paves the way for the development of advanced layered cathodes for the next‐generation high‐performance PIBs.
Electrically, Thermally, and Mechanically Anisotropic Gels with a Wide Operational Temperature Range
Authors: Tran Van Tron , Mredha Md. Tariful Islam , Lee Yoonseong , Todo Mitsugu , So Hongyun , Jeong Eunju , Park Woosung , Jeon Insu
Published: December 2021

Next‐generation applications, such as flexible electronic devices, sensors, actuators, and soft robotics, require anisotropic functional soft materials with controlled, directional electrical and heat conductivities, mechanical properties, and responsiveness, as well as shape‐morphing capability, complex designability, and wide operational temperature ranges. However, a combination of these functions in any single class of materials has been very rarely seen to date. In this study, a novel class of multi‐anisotropic gels is developed to realize all these functions through a new fabrication route. The gels are synthesized by integrating cellulose with poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) in tripropylene glycol. The prepared gels exhibit high electrical and thermal conductivities of ≈200 S m−1 and ≈1.49 W m−1 K−1, respectively, with exceptional Young's modulus (≈500 MPa) and tensile strength (≈55 MPa), which are much better than the previously reported mechanical properties of PEDOT‐based gels (modulus/strength ≤ 10 MPa). Moreover, the gels exhibit self‐welding ability and maintain their properties for 14 d over a wide temperature range (from −50 to 35 °C), covering almost the entire atmospheric temperature range on Earth surface. It is believed that the developed gels are promising candidates for application in many next‐generation flexible devices, some of which are experimentally demonstrated in this study.
Boosting Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production via Interfacial Engineering on 2D Ultrathin Z‐Scheme ZnIn2S4/g‐C3N4 Heterojunction
Authors: Tan Mengxi , Ma Yuan , Yu Chengye , Luan Qingjie , Li Junjie , Liu Chuanbao , Dong Wenjun , Su Yanjing , Qiao Lijie , Gao Lei , Lu Qipeng , Bai Yang
Published: December 2021

2D layered nanomaterials as photocatalysts have attracted much attention in the field of solar hydrogen production due to their unique electronic structure and abundant active sites. Nevertheless, the rational design and interfacial regulation of 2D Z‐scheme heterojunction are still challenging. Herein, an ultrathin 2D ZnIn2S4/g‐C3N4 Z‐scheme heterojunction is precisely constructed via in‐situ growth of ZnIn2S4 on the g‐C3N4. By carefully regulating the interface structure in heterojunction, the hydrogen evolution performance can be greatly improved. The optimized photocatalyst exhibits a remarkable photocatalytic activity without Pt as cocatalyst, which is primarily ascribed to the synergistic effect of abundant active sites, enhanced photoresponse, and valid interfacial charge transfer channels. Meanwhile, the spectroscopic analyses and density functional theory (DFT) calculation results comprehensively prove that the promoted interfacial charge separation in 2D Z‐scheme heterojunction is another key factor for the enhanced photocatalytic performance. This work offers a new avenue for the rational design of ultrathin Z‐scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with improved photocatalytic performance through interfacial engineering.
Large‐Scale and Wide‐Gamut Coloration at the Diffraction Limit in Flexible, Self‐Assembled Hierarchical Nanomaterials
Authors: Li Ning , Xiang Fei , Elizarov Maxim S. , Makarenko Maxim , Lopez Arturo B. , Getman Fedor , Bonifazi Marcella , Mazzone Valerio , Fratalocchi Andrea
Published: December 2021

Unveiling physical phenomena that generate controllable structural coloration is at the center of significant research efforts due to the platform potential for the next generation of printing, sensing, displays, wearable optoelectronics components, and smart fabrics. Colors based on e‐beam facilities possess high resolutions above 100k dots per inch (DPI), but limit manufacturing scales up to 4.37 cm2, while requiring rigid substrates that are not flexible. State‐of‐art scalable techniques, on the contrary, provide either narrow gamuts or small resolutions. A common issue of current methods is also a heterogeneous resolution, which typically changes with the color printed. Here, a structural coloration platform with broad gamuts exceeding the red, green, and blue (RGB) spectrum in inexpensive, thermally resistant, flexible, and metallic‐free structures at constant 101 600 DPI (at the diffraction limit), obtained via mass‐production manufacturing is demonstrated. This platform exploits a previously unexplored physical mechanism, which leverages the interplay between strong scattering modes and optical resonances excited in fully 3D dielectric nanostructures with suitably engineered longitudinal profiles. The colors obtained with this technology are scalable to any area, demonstrated up to the single wafer (4 in.). These results open real‐world applications of inexpensive, high‐resolution, large‐scale structural colors with broad chromatic spectra.
Prussian Blue Analogues for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Peng Jian , Zhang Wang , Liu Qiannan , Wang Jiazhao , Chou Shulei , Liu Huakun , Dou Shixue
Published: December 2021

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) have attracted wide attention for their application in the energy storage and conversion field due to their low cost, facile synthesis, and appreciable electrochemical performance. At the present stage, most research on PBAs is focused on their material‐level optimization, whereas their properties in practical battery systems are seldom considered. This review aims to first provide an overview of the history and parameters of PBA materials and analyze the fundamental principles toward rational design of PBAs, and then evaluate the prospects and challenges for PBAs for practical sodium‐ion batteries, hoping to bridge the gap between laboratory research and commercial reality.
Selective Hydrogenation of Glycolic Acid to Renewable Ethylene Glycol over Supported Ruthenium Catalysts
Authors: Harth Florian M. , Goepel Michael , Gläser Roger
Published: December 2021

The production of industrially demanded polymer precursor ethylene glycol (EG) from biomass‐accessible aqueous glycolic acid (GA) was investigated in this study. The systematic investigation of different active metals as well as, for the first time, various support materials revealed Ru/TiO2 and Ru/ZrO2 to be the most active catalysts in the heterogeneously catalyzed reduction of GA with molecular H2. Catalytic activity is enhanced by facilitated reduction of the active Ru species due to metal‐support interactions. An assessment of several other catalyst properties (metal surface area, acid properties, porosity) revealed that high metal dispersion is also beneficial. Up to 94 % GA conversion and 95 % selectivity for EG were obtained under optimized and mild reaction conditions (105 °C, 60 bar H2 pressure, 23 h, Ru/TiO2 as catalyst). This shows that the heterogeneously catalyzed reduction of biomass‐derived aqueous GA solutions can be a promising alternative for the renewable production of EG.
Resilience of reptiles to megafires
Authors: Santos Xavier , Belliure Josabel , Gonçalves João F. , Pausas Juli G.
Published: December 2021

Extreme climate events, together with anthropogenic land‐use changes, have led to the rise of megafires (i.e., fires at the top of the frequency size distribution) in many world regions. Megafires imply that the center of the burnt area is far from the unburnt; therefore, recolonization may be critical for species with low dispersal abilities such as reptiles. We aimed to evaluate the effect of megafires on a reptile community, exploring to what extent reptile responses are spatially shaped by the distance to the unburnt area. We examined the short‐term spatiotemporal response of a Mediterranean reptile community after two megafires (>20,000 ha) that occurred in summer 2012 in eastern Spain. Reptiles were sampled over 4 years after the fire in burnt plots located at different distances from the fire perimeter (edge, middle, and center), and in adjacent unburnt plots. Reptile responses were modeled with fire history, as well as climate and remotely sensed environmental variables. In total, we recorded 522 reptiles from 12 species (11 species in the burnt plots and nine in the unburnt plots). Reptile abundance decreased in burnt compared with unburnt plots. The community composition and species richness did not vary either spatially (unburnt and burnt plots) or temporally (during the 4 years). The persistence of reptiles in the burnt area supported their resilience to megafires. The most common lizard species was Psammodromus algirus; both adults and juveniles were found in all unburnt and burnt plots. This species showed lower abundances in burnt areas compared with the unburnt and a slow short‐term abundance recovery. The lizard Psammodromus edwarsianus was much less abundant and showed a tendency to increase its abundance in burnt plots compared with unburnt plots. Within the megafire area, P. algirus and P. edwarsianus abundances correlated with the thermal–moisture environment and vegetation recovery regardless of the distance from the fire edge. These results indicated the absence of a short‐term reptile recolonization from the unburnt zone, demonstrating that reptiles are resilient (in situ persistence) to megafires when environmental conditions are favorable.
At high stocking rates, cattle do not functionally replace wild herbivores in shaping understory community composition
Authors: Wells Harry B. M. , Porensky Lauren M. , Veblen Kari E. , Riginos Corinna , Stringer Lindsay C. , Dougill Andrew J. , Namoni Mathew , Ekadeli Jackson , Young Truman P.
Published: December 2021

Over a quarter of the world's land surface is grazed by cattle and other livestock, which are replacing wild herbivores, potentially impairing ecosystem structure, and functions. Previous research suggests that cattle at moderate stocking rates can functionally replace wild herbivores in shaping understory communities. However, it is uncertain whether this is also true under high stocking rates and the effects of wild herbivore on plant communities are moderate, enhanced, or simply additive to the effects of cattle at high stocking rates. To evaluate the influence of cattle stocking rates on the ability of cattle to functionally replace wild herbivores and test for interactive effects between cattle and wild herbivores in shaping understory vegetation, we assessed herbaceous vegetation in a long‐term exclosure experiment in a semi‐arid savanna in central Kenya that selectively excludes wild mesoherbivores (50–1000 kg) and megaherbivores (elephant and giraffe). We tested the effects of cattle stocking rate (zero/moderate/high) on herbaceous vegetation (diversity, composition, leafiness). We also tested how those effects depend on the presence of wild mesoherbivores and megaherbivores. We found that herbaceous community composition (primary ordination axis) was better explained by the presence/absence of herbivore types than by total herbivory, suggesting that herbivore identity is a more important determinant of community composition than total herbivory at high cattle stocking rates. The combination of wild mesoherbivores and cattle stocked at high rates led to increased bare ground and annual grass cover, reduced perennial grass cover and understory leafiness, and enhanced understory diversity. These shifts were weaker or absent when cattle were stocked at high stocking rates in the absence of wild mesoherbivores. Megaherbivores tempered the effects of cattle stocked at high rates on herbaceous community composition but amplified the effects of high cattle stocking rate on bare ground and understory diversity. Our results show that cattle at high stocking rates do not functionally replace wild herbivores in shaping savanna herbaceous communities contrary to previous findings at moderate stocking rates. In mixed‐use rangelands, interactions between cattle stocking rate and wild herbivore presence can lead to non‐additive vegetation responses with important implications for both wildlife conservation and livestock production.
N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide testing patterns in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Januzzi James L. , Tan Xi , Yang Lingfeng , Brady Joanne E. , Yang Mei , Banka Puja , Lautsch Dominik
Published: December 2021

Aims

The N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) is a commonly used biomarker in heart failure for diagnosis and prognostication. We aimed to determine the prevalence of NT‐proBNP testing, distribution of NT‐proBNP concentrations, and factors associated with receiving an NT‐proBNP test in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), including the subset with a worsening heart failure event (WHFE).

Methods and results

This was a retrospective cohort study using two US databases: (i) the de‐identified Humana Research Database between January 2015 and December 2018 and (ii) the Veradigm PINNACLE Registry® between July 2013 and September 2017. We included adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of HFrEF. In each data source, a subgroup of patients with a WHFE was identified, where a WHFE was defined as a heart failure‐related hospitalization or receipt of intravenous diuretics. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess factors associated with receiving NT‐proBNP testing. In Cohort 1 (n = 249 238), 9.2% of patients with HFrEF and 10.8% of patients with a WHFE received NT‐proBNP testing. When restricted to patients with at least one laboratory claim, 11.3% of patients with HFrEF and 13.2% of those with a WHFE received NT‐proBNP testing. In Cohort 2 (n = 91 444), 2.3% of patients with HFrEF were tested. Median (inter‐quartile range) NT‐proBNP concentrations among patients with HFrEF were 1399 (423–4087) pg/mL in Cohort 1 and 394 (142–688) pg/mL in Cohort 2. Median (inter‐quartile range) NT‐proBNP concentrations in the subset of patients with a WHFE in each cohort were 2209 (740–5894) and 464 (174–783) pg/mL, respectively. In Cohort 1, 13.4% of all HFrEF patients receiving NT‐proBNP testing and 18.9% of patients with a WHFE had NT‐proBNP values >8000 pg/mL; in Cohort 2, these percentages were 1.0% and 2.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

In US clinical practice, NT‐proBNP testing was not frequently performed in patients with HFrEF. NT‐proBNP concentrations varied across data sources and subpopulations within HFrEF.
Toward Selective Anticancer Agents: Ferrocene‐Steroid Conjugates
Authors: Raičević Vidak , Radulović Niko , Sakač Marija
Published: December 2021

The medicinal chemistry of ferrocene is a diverse and rapidly growing field. In the search for selective and more efficient anticancer drugs, ferrocene‐steroid conjugates were explored in the past as a tool to target hormone‐dependent cancer cells, notably those of breast and prostate cancers. The mechanisms by which ferrocene compounds induce cytotoxicity are first examined, as well as how they can be exploited to design conjugates of ferrocene with steroid hormones potentially acting as selective antineoplastics. We sought to cover all relevant literature related to ferrocene‐steroid conjugates, from early works published in the 1970s up to now. Particular attention was bestowed upon research where the conjugates were tested for their antitumor potential.
Zero‐field Slow Magnetic Relaxation Behavior of Dy2 in a Series of Dinuclear {Ln2} (Ln=Dy, Tb, Gd and Er) Complexes: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Roy Soumalya , Shukla Pooja , Prakash Sahu Prem , Sun Yu‐Chen , Ahmed Naushad , Chandra Sahoo Subash , Wang Xin‐Yi , Kumar Singh Saurabh , Das Sourav
Published: December 2021

A series of dinuclear lanthanide(III) complexes having general formulae [Ln2L2(thd)4] ⋅ 2CH3CN {Ln=DyIII(1), TbIII(2), GdIII(3), ErIII(4)} were successfully synthesized using Schiff base (E)‐2‐((pyridin‐2‐ylmethylene)amino)phenol (LH) and co‐ligand 2,2,6,6‐Tetramethyl‐3,5‐heptanedione (Hthd). The single crystal XRD data shows that complexes possess a dinuclear planar [Ln2(μ2‐O)2]4+ core where phenolate oxygen atoms act as bridges between the two LnIII ions, and that the coordination sphere of LnIII with eight coordination has distorted trigonal dodecahedron geometry. The magnetic analysis shows complex 1 is a single molecule magnet having a zero‐field effective energy barrier (Ueff) of 54.02 K and relaxation time of τo=4.45×10−6 s. Field‐induced SMM behavior has been observed for 4 with an effective energy barrier of 26.9 K and τ0=2.4×10−9 s. CASSCF+RASSI‐SO calculations on 1, 2 and 4 provide deep insight regarding the electronic structure and single‐ion anisotropy of lanthanide ions. Further, using state‐of‐the‐art ab initio calculations, the nature of magnetic anisotropy and magnetic exchange interaction between the LnIII centers is analyzed to shed light on the magnetic dynamics of all the complexes 1–4.
Knowledge and attitude toward epilepsy among the final and semi‐final years medical students at University of Bahri, Sudan
Authors: Mustafa Mohammed N. , Wedaa Alla Lina G. , Ahmad Tibyan K.
Published: December 2021

Objective

To assess the knowledge and attitude toward epilepsy among the final and semi‐final years medical students at University of Bahri.

Methods

An observational cross‐sectional study was carried out at College of Medicine, University of Bahri. Self‐administered questionnaires were applied to 228 medical students in the final and semi‐final years.

Results

Sixty‐three percent of students showed a high level of knowledge. Despite that 10.1% of the students do not know that atonic seizure is a type of epilepsy, 62.7% attributed the causes of epilepsy to psychological factors only, and 9.6% considered epilepsy is an untreatable disease. The majority of students are not aware that screaming is a manifestation of certain types of epilepsy. More than half of the students considered inserting something into the patient's mouth during the seizure will prevent tongue biting. Interestingly, a total of 8.3% of students thought that it is a demonic attack, whereas 34.6% of students thought the Holy Quran as an appropriate treatment for epilepsy (P = .026). Up to 77% of the students showed a positive attitude toward patients with epilepsy. However, 42.1% of students agreed that there should be some restrictions in sport and leisure activities for people who suffer from epilepsy, and 13.6% of students admitted they will not get married to someone with epilepsy.

Significance

Our study showed an overall relatively high level of knowledge toward epilepsy among medical students with a potentially positive attitude toward patients with the disease. However, there are still misconceptions of epilepsy in different aspects. This study showed some important facts for policymakers and key opinion leaders in curriculum preparation and training programs for medical schools which should be designed to increase knowledge and understanding of epilepsy among the medical students, not just the scientific knowledge but also discuss the social impact of epilepsy on a patient's life.
Daphnia magna and Ceriodaphnia dubia Have Similar Sensitivity in Standard Acute and Chronic Toxicity Tests
Authors: Connors Kristin A. , Brill Jessica L. , Norberg-King Teresa , Barron Mace G. , Carr Greg , Belanger Scott E.
Published: December 2021

The cladocerans Daphnia magna and Ceriodaphnia dubia have been used for decades to assess the hazards of chemicals and effluents, but toxicity data for these species have traditionally been treated separately. Numerous standard acute and chronic test guidelines have been developed for both species. In the present study, data were compiled and curated for acute survival (48 h) and growth and reproduction tests with D. magna (21 days chronic) and C. dubia (7 days chronic) toxicity assays. Orthogonal regressions were developed to statistically compare the acute and chronic sensitivity of D. magna and C. dubia across a diversity of chemicals and modes of action. Acute orthogonal regressions between D. magna and D. pulex, a widely accepted surrogate species, were used to set a data-driven benchmark for what would constitute a suitable D. magna surrogate. The results indicate that there is insufficient evidence to suggest a difference in acute or chronic sensitivity of D. magna and C. dubia in standard toxicity tests. Further, the variability in the acute D. magna and C. dubia regressions were of the same magnitude as that in D. magna and D. pulex regressions. Slope and y-intercept values were also comparable. The absence of significant differences in toxicity values suggests similar species sensitivity in standard tests across a range of chemical classes and modes of action. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:134–147. © 2021 SETAC
Nutritional evaluation of complementary porridge formulated from orange‐fleshed sweet potato, amaranth grain, pumpkin seed, and soybean flours
Authors: Marcel Mary R. , Chacha James S. , Ofoedu Chigozie E.
Published: December 2021

Supplementing breastmilk with poor energy and nutrient‐dense complementary foodstuffs for young children and infants has resulted in malnutrition, poor growth, and retardation of infant development in many sub‐Saharan African countries. Ensuring nutrient adequacy for infants because of their lower consumption requires energy and nutrient‐dense food. In this context, the nutritional composition of porridge from complementary flour blends of locally available foodstuffs (orange‐fleshed sweet potato, pumpkin seeds, amaranth grains, and soybeans) was carried out. Complementary flours formulated from flour blends of pumpkin seeds, extrusion cooked soybean, and orange‐fleshed sweet potato, as well as germinated and extrusion cooked amaranth grains, resulted in varieties of complementary porridges (SAPO1–SAPO5). From these, proximate composition, mineral content (sodium, iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc), vitamin contents (A and C), and nutrient density of the formulated complementary porridge were determined. Results showed that all the formulated complementary porridge were able to meet the stipulated standards of energy and nutrient (zinc, iron, vitamin A, and protein) densities. Flour blend ratio, germination process, and extrusion cooking significantly (p < .05) influenced the targeted nutrients of interest, as well as the nutrient and energy densities of the formulated complementary porridge. Specifically, the formulated complementary porridge with 40% amaranth grain, 25% orange‐fleshed sweet potato, 20% soybean, and 15% pumpkin seed composite mixture had 76.92% compliance level with recommended standards, which assure adequate nutrient complementation to breastfeeding. The present study provides a valuable insight that complementary foods from locally obtainable foodstuffs are potential solutions for mitigating childhood malnutrition and adequate complementation to breastfeeding by proffering the needed energy and nutrient densities required for the immunity, well‐being, growth, and development of young children and infants, without fortification.
A Short and Versatile Approach for the Synthesis of Pyrrolizidinones
Authors: Dagoneau Dylan , Quinodoz Pierre , Kolleth Amandine , Bozoflu Mert , Horoz Beyza , Catak Saron , Poisson Philippe‐Alexandre , Lumbroso Alexandre , Sulzer‐Mossé Sarah , De Mesmaeker Alain
Published: December 2021

Herein we describe a novel 3‐step synthesis of pyrrolizidinone derivatives with good overall yield. This sequence relies on first a [2+2] cycloaddition between a keteniminium salt intermediate, bearing an alkyl chloride side chain, and an alkene partner furnishing the corresponding cyclobutanone after hydrolysis of the resulting cyclobutaniminium. Then ring expansion towards the γ‐lactam using a Beckmann‐type rearrangement followed by intramolecular SN2 reaction in the presence of a base triggers the second ring formation of the process. This approach, which is particularly straightforward, allows a broad diversification of pyrrolizidinones by changing the nature of the substituents on the starting alkene and on the keteniminium precursor. Additionally, a computational study was conducted to assess the activation barrier of the SN2 step on different intermediates as well as the nitrogen pyramidalization of the resulting pyrrolizidinones adducts.
Follicular dendritic cells
Authors: Abd El‐Aleem Seham A. , Saber Entesar Ali , Aziz Neven M. , El‐Sherif Hani , Abdelraof Asmaa M. , Djouhri Laiche
Published: December 2021

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) are unique accessory immune cells that contribute to the regulation of humoral immunity. They are multitasker cells essential for the organization and maintenance of the lymphoid architecture, induction of germinal center reaction, production of B memory cells, and protection from autoimmune disorders. They perform their activities through both antigen‐driven and chemical signaling to B cells. FDCs play a crucial role in the physiological regulation of the immune response. Dis‐regulation of this immune response results when FDCs retain antigens for years. This provides a constant antigenic stimulation for B cells resulting in the development of immune disorders. Antigen trapped on FDCs is resistant to therapeutic intervention causing chronicity and recurrences. Beyond their physiological immunoregulatory functions, FDCs are involved in the pathogenesis of several immune‐related disorders including HIV/AIDS, prion diseases, chronic inflammatory, and autoimmune disorders. FDCs have also been recently implicated in rare neoplasms of lymphoid and hematopoietic tissues. Understanding FDC biology is essential for better control of humoral immunity and opens the gate for therapeutic management of FDC‐mediated immune disorders. Thus, the biology of FDCs has become a hot research area in the last couple of decades. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of FDCs and their role in physiological and pathological conditions.
Anatomy of super‐fast activated sludge process with gravity settling for biodegradation and energy recovery potential ‐ a review
Authors: Orhon Derin , Sözen Seval , Ubay Çokgör Emine , Janssen Paul
Published: December 2021

This study reviewed the conceptual basis and the application of extremely high rate activated sludge configurations with gravity settling. It evaluated the modified aeration process, as the historical pioneering development, and the A process (adsorption), which was inspired by the traditional AB process (adsorption/biological oxidation) promulgated in the seventies. For this purpose, a modelling framework was established to simulate the expected performance and the energy recovery potential of these processes using the currently applicable data base. The model evaluation was also extended to cover the Yenikapı plant in Istanbul as a current case study. The modelling results were discussed in view of the handicaps of gravity settling and the merit of high‐rate membrane bioreactors where gravity settling would be replaced by membrane filtration. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Binding mechanism of lipase with Lentinus edodes mycelia polysaccharide by multi‐spectroscopic methods
Authors: Liu Jianli , Chen Jiahe , Liu Xiangyang , Shao Wei , Mei Xueying , Tang Zhipeng , Cao Xiangyu
Published: December 2021

It is an effective strategy to avoid obesity by inhibiting the activity of lipase. In this study, the binding mechanism of lipase and Lentinus edodes mycelia polysaccharide (LMP) were explored with multi‐spectral methods, for example, three‐dimensional (3D) fluorescence, Fourier‐transformed infrared (FT‐IR), and Raman spectra. At 290 K, the binding constant was 2.44 × 105 L/mol, there was only one binding site between LMP and lipase. Static quenching was the quenching mechanism. The major forces were hydrogen bonding and van der Waals force. The binding of LMP to lipase impacted the microenvironment around tyrosine and tryptophan residues. The polarity around these residues was decreased and hydrophobicity was enhanced. This study not only revealed the binding mechanism of LMP on lipase but also provided scientific evidence for expanding the application of LMP in functional food industries.
Rapid Formation of a Lamellar Structure in an Amphiphilic Comb‐Shaped Polymer by Nanophase Separation Using Microwave–Humidity Annealing
Authors: Ohke Mizuki , Matsui Jun
Published: December 2021

Microwave irradiation is applied to rapidly prepare highly ordered lamellar structures of amphiphilic comb‐shaped polymers via nanophase separation. Amphiphilic comb‐shaped polymer of poly(N‐dodecyl acrylamide) (pDDA) is synthesized by free radical polymerization. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X‐ray diffraction results indicate that pDDA is amorphous at room temperature. Exposing pDDA powder to microwave irradiation in the presence of water (microwave–humidity annealing) converts the structure into lamellae. The water molecules absorb the microwaves, and their temperature rapidly increases above the glass‐transition temperature (Tg) of pDDA. Moreover, a fraction of the heated water is adsorbed at the amide moiety, which increases the nanosegregation with the alkyl side chains. As a result, pDDA forms a lamellar structure by nanophase separation between the main chain with water‐containing amide moieties and the alkyl side chains. The rapid increase in temperature results in a fast formation (a few tens of seconds) of the lamellae. Moreover, the microwave–humidity annealing of pDDA thin films on Si substrates results in a uniaxial lamellar structure. These results indicate that microwave–humidity annealing is a simple method to rapidly form a self‐assembled structure in homopolymers by nanophase separation.
Depression and Apathy across Different Variants of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Bower Sarah M. , Weigand Stephen D. , Ali Farwa , Clark Heather M. , Botha Hugo , Stierwalt Julie A. , Whitwell Jennifer L. , Josephs Keith A.
Published: December 2021

Background

Apathy and depression commonly occur in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)‐Richardson's syndrome variant; depression often requiring treatment. Little is known, however, about apathy and depression among other PSP variants.

Methods

We prospectively studied 97 newly diagnosed PSP patients. All were classified into a PSP variant using the 2017 Movement Disorder Society‐PSP criteria and administered the Geriatric Depression and Apathy Evaluation Scales. Differences in apathy and depression frequency and severity across six variants, and secondarily across PSP‐Richardson's syndrome, PSP‐Cortical and PSP‐Subcortical, were analyzed using ANCOVA and linear regression adjusting for disease severity.

Results

Depression (55%) was more common than apathy (12%). PSP‐Speech/Language (PSP‐SL) variant had the lowest depression frequency (13%) and lower depression scores than the other variants. No differences in apathy frequency/severity were identified.

Conclusion

PSP‐SL patients may have less depression compared to PSP‐Richardson's syndrome and other PSP variants.
On vanishing limits of the shear viscosity and Hall coefficients for the planar compressible Hall‐MHD system
Authors: Ye Xia , Wang Zejia
Published: December 2021

This paper deals with an initial‐boundary value problem of the planar compressible Hall‐magnetohydrodynamic (for short, Hall‐MHD) equations. For the fixed shear viscosity and small Hall coefficients, we obtain the existence of long‐time strong solutions of Hall‐MHD equations and corresponding MHD equations. As both the shear viscosity and the Hall coefficients tend to zero, the convergence rate for the solutions from Hall‐MHD equations to MHD equations is given. The thickness of boundary layer is discussed by spatial weighted estimate and the characteristic of boundary layer is described by constructing a boundary layer function.
Iterative feedback tuning for optimal repetitive constraint‐following control of uncertain mechanical systems using Udwadia–Kalaba theory
Authors: He Chunsheng , Huang Kang , Zhao Han , Zheng Yunjun , Xie Shengquan
Published: December 2021

This article presents a novel optimal constraint‐following controller for uncertain mechanical systems (MSs). The MS's uncertainty is unknown (possibly time‐varying) and bounded, but the bound is unspecified. Employing the frame of Udwadia–Kalaba theory, we design a robust controller with two tunable control gains for MSs, which guarantees some deterministic performances. Assuming the constraints to be holonomic and periodic, we transform the controlled MSs and introduce an iterative feedback tuning method for optimizing the proposed controller. After optimization, the final control scheme can achieve the equilibrium between the system performance and control cost for an arbitrary single constraint period. Simulations on a two‐link rotational manipulator are provided at last to demonstrate the proposed approach.
Impact of Achromobacter spp. isolation on clinical outcomes in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Sunman Birce , Emiralioglu Nagehan , Hazirolan Gülsen , Ademhan Tural Dilber , Ozsezen Beste , Nayir Buyuksahin Halime , Guzelkas Ismail , Yalcin Ebru , Dogru Deniz , Özçelik Uğur , Kiper Nural
Published: December 2021

Background

The prevalence of Achromobacter spp. in cystic fibrosis (CF) has increased while its significance remains controversial. Our aim was to investigate the impact of Achromobacter spp. isolation on clinical outcomes in children with CF.

Methods

Children with Achromobacter spp. isolation were retrospectively included from the CF database of our center. Control groups of children with CF, who had never been infected by Achromobacter spp., were individually case‐matched by age, sex, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolation status. Pulmonary function and exacerbation frequency were compared between groups during follow‐up.

Results

Thirty‐seven children had at least one respiratory specimen positive for Achromobacter spp. Achromobacter spp. were chronically isolated from 15 (40.5%) and intermittently from 22 (59.5%) of these 37 children. Although the baseline forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) z‐score was similar between the Achromobacter spp.‐infected and ‐uninfected groups (−0.65 ± 2.22 vs. −0.15 ± 1.30, respectively; p = 0.318), children infected by Achromobacter spp. had a lower FEV1 z‐score compared to the control group by the end of the first year (−1.37 ± 2.17 vs. −0.14 ± 1.65, respectively; p = 0.025). In addition, the FEV1 decline in 1 year was significantly greater in the group infected by Achromobacter spp. compared to the uninfected group (−1.18%/year vs. −9.07%/year, respectively; p = 0.043). Furthermore, the cumulative numbers of exacerbations observed in the Achromobacter spp.‐infected group were higher compared to the control group by the end of the second year (4 [0–17] versus 3 [0–9], respectively; p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Achromobacter spp. isolation is associated with more accelerated decline in lung function parameters and frequent exacerbations in children with CF.
Modelling reliability growth for multi‐version open source software considering varied testing and debugging factors
Authors: Saraf Iqra , Iqbal Javaid , Shrivastava Avinash K. , Khurshid Shozab
Published: December 2021

Due to the continuous dependence of society on technology and the fast growth of Open Source Software (OSS), there is a need for the software industry to shift to multi‐release software development. To include the revisions in user demands and testing environment, factors that affect OSS reliability have to be considered. Here, we propose a quantitative method for assessing the reliability of multi‐release OSS by using Software Reliability Growth Models based on the Non‐Homogenous Poisson Process. Various factors like imperfect debugging, error generation, change‐point have been considered. The model has been estimated on Statistical Package for Social Sciences using three releases of the Apache dataset. It is concluded that the results obtained are improved than the existing ones.
Dissipative Generation of Two‐Mode Mechanical Squeezing via Frequency Modulation
Authors: Zhang Tian‐Qi , Wang Dong‐Yang , Bai Cheng‐Hua , Zhang Shou , Wang Hong‐Fu
Published: December 2021

Different from the general schemes of two‐mode mechanical squeezing, a dissipative scheme to generate strong and robust two‐mode mechanical squeezing via frequency modulation of cavity modes in a cavity optomechanical system consisting of a modulated two‐mode optical cavity and two mechanical oscillators is proposed. It is shown that the strong mechanical squeezing, which is highly robust against the thermal noise, can be engineered by means of cavity dissipation. Moreover, the squeezing mechanism is explored via analytical approach and it is found that the squeezing direction is controlled by modulation amplitude. The scheme provides an alternative pathway to generate strong mechanical–mechanical entanglement.
An Ultrasmall Fe3O4‐Decorated Polydopamine Hybrid Nanozyme Enables Continuous Conversion of Oxygen into Toxic Hydroxyl Radical via GSH‐Depleted Cascade Redox Reactions for Intensive Wound Disinfection
Authors: Xiao Jiayu , Hai Luo , Li Yaoyao , Li Huan , Gong Minhui , Wang Zefeng , Tang Zifeng , Deng Le , He Dinggeng
Published: December 2021

Nanozyme‐based chemodynamic therapy (CDT) for fighting bacterial infections faces several major obstacles including low hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) level, over‐expressed glutathione (GSH) in infected sites, and inevitable damage to healthy tissue with abundant nonlocalized nanozymes. Herein, a smart ultrasmall Fe3O4‐decorated polydopamine (PDA/Fe3O4) hybrid nanozyme is demonstrated that continuously converts oxygen into highly toxic hydroxyl radical (•OH) via GSH‐depleted cascade redox reactions for CDT‐mediated bacterial elimination and intensive wound disinfection. In this system, photonic hyperthermia of PDA/Fe3O4 nanozymes can not only directly damage bacteria, but also improve the horseradish peroxidase‐like activity of Fe3O4 decorated for CDT. Surprisingly, through photothermal‐enhanced cascade catalytic reactions, PDA/Fe3O4 nanozymes can consume endogenous GSH for disrupting cellular redox homeostasis and simultaneously provide abundant H2O2 for improving •OH generation, ultimately enhancing the antibacterial performance of CDT. Such PDA/Fe3O4 can bind with bacterial cells, and reveals excellent antibacterial property against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Most interestingly, PDA/Fe3O4 nanozymes can be strongly retained in infected sites by an external magnet for localized long‐term in vivo CDT and show minimal toxicity to healthy tissues and organs. This work presents an effective strategy to magnetically retain the therapeutic nanozymes in infected sites for highly efficient CDT with good biosafety.
Ultrahigh Temperature Lead‐Free Film Capacitors via Strain and Dielectric Constant Double Gradient Design
Authors: Fan Jiangqi , Hu Tian‐Yi , Ma Chuansheng , Ma Chunrui , Lu Rui , Jin Jing , Hu Guangliang , Liu Ming , Jia Chun‐Lin
Published: December 2021

With the development of miniaturization, lightweight and integration of electronic devices, the demand for high‐temperature dielectric capacitors is becoming urgent. Nevertheless, the breakdown strength and polarization are deteriorated at high temperatures due to the thermal energy assisting the electron transport and impeding the dipole alignment. Here, a structure of capacitor with double gradients of dielectric constant gradient and strain gradient is designed to achieve high breakdown strength, high working temperature, and high energy storage density simultaneously. It is found that the designed structure of BaHf0.17Ti0.83O3/1mol% SiO2 doped BaZr0.35Ti0.65O3/0.85BaTiO3‐0.15Bi(Mg0.5Zr0.5)O3 exhibits excellent energy storage performance. The energy storage density of 127.3 J cm−3 with an energy storage efficiency of 79.6% is realized in the up‐sequence multilayer with period N = 2 at room temperature. Moreover, when the working temperature varies from −100 to 200 °C, the energy storage density of the N = 4 capacitor keeps stably at 84.62 J cm−3 with an energy storage efficiency 78.42% at 6.86 MV cm−1. All these properties promise great potential applications of the designed multilayer capacitors with the double gradients in harsh environments, and the design principle can be applicable to other systems to boost working temperature.
The effects of Medicaid expansion on home production and childcare
Authors: Soni Aparna , Morrissey Taryn
Published: December 2021

Public health insurance programs like Medicaid provide in‐kind resources that may improve health and reduce stress, altering time use patterns. Our study examines the effects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)‐facilitated Medicaid expansions on time spent on home production and childcare. Using time‐diary data, we estimated difference‐in‐differences models comparing the time use patterns of individuals in states that expanded Medicaid versus non‐expansion states, before and after implementation. Medicaid expansion increased the amount of time low‐income adults spent on home production by 12 min per day (p < .05), equivalent to a 9.5% increase. This was driven by increased time spent on food preparation and housework. Medicaid expansion also increased time spent on childcare among low‐income parents by 6.6 min per day (p < .10) or 7.7%. Expanding public health insurance eligibility for low‐income populations may increase time spent on home production and childcare, which are associated with significant health benefits for children and adults.
Prevalence and clinical significance of clinically evident portal hypertension in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing transarterial chemoembolization
Authors: Müller Lukas , Hahn Felix , Mähringer‐Kunz Aline , Stoehr Fabian , Gairing Simon Johannes , Foerster Friedrich , Weinmann Arndt , Galle Peter Robert , Mittler Jens , Pinto dos Santos Daniel , Pitton Michael Bernhard , Düber Christoph , Fehrenbach Uli , Auer Timo Alexander , Gebauer Bernhard , Kloeckner Roman
Published: December 2021

Background

Clinically evident portal hypertension (CEPH) was previously identified as a prognostic factor for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, little is known about the prognostic influence of CEPH on the long‐term outcome of patients with HCC undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), particularly in Western populations.

Objectives

This study investigated the prevalence and prognostic influence of CEPH in a Western population of patients with HCC undergoing TACE.

Methods

This retrospective study included 349 treatment‐naïve patients that received initial TACE treatment at our tertiary care center between January 2010 and November 2020. CEPH was defined as a combination of ascites, esophageal/gastric varices, splenomegaly and a low platelet count. We assessed the influence of CEPH and its defining factors on median overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. We compared the effects of CEPH to those of well‐known prognostic factors.

Results

Of the 349 patients included, 304 (87.1%) patients had liver cirrhosis. CEPH was present in 241 (69.1%) patients. The median OS times were 10.6 months for patients with CEPH and 17.1 months for patients without CEPH (log rank p = 0.036). Median OS without a present surrogate was 17.1 months, while patients with one respectively more than two present CEPH surrogates had a median OS of 10.8 and 9.4 months (log rank p = 0.053). In multivariate analysis, CEPH was no significant risk factor for OS (p = 0.190). Of the CEPH‐defining factors, only ascites reached significance in a univariate analysis.

Conclusion

CEPH was present in more than two thirds of the patients with HCC undergoing TACE in our cohort of Western patients. Patients with CEPH had a significantly impaired survival in univariate analysis. However, no significance was reached in multivariate analysis. Thus, when TACE treatment is deemed oncologically reasonable, patients should not be excluded from TACE treatment due to the presence of surrogates of portal hypertension alone.
What can equine surveillance learn from surveillance of other species?
Authors: Tivey Mary‐Ellen Lloyd
Published: December 2021

Mary‐Ellen Lloyd Tivey of the Royal Veterinary College, suggests that greater collaboration and encouraging engagement from horse owners and vets is key to strengthening scanning surveillance in equine populations.
William Smith Anderson
Authors: Langworthy Nigel
Published: December 2021

A committed veterinary surgeon who spent 62 years caring for animals in and around York.