bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultralow Quiescent Power‐Consumption Wake‐Up Technology Based on the Bionic Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Zhang Chenxi , Dai Keren , Liu Di , Yi Fang , Wang Xiaofeng , Zhu Lianqing , You Zheng
Published: May 2020

Wake‐up circuits in smart microsystems make huge contributions to energy conservation of electronic networks in unmanned areas, which still require higher pressure‐triggering sensitivity and lower power consumption. In this work, a bionic triboelectric nanogenerator (bTENG) is developed to serve as a self‐powered motion sensor in the wake‐up circuit, which captures slight mechanical disturbances and overcomes the drawback of conventional self‐powered motion sensors in the wake‐up circuit that the circuit can only be triggered when a considerable pressure is applied on the sensor. The bTENG mimics the structure of plants and the addition of the leaf‐shaped tentacle structures can increase the electrical outputs by four times, which largely extends the detection range of the wake‐up circuit. The bTENG can detect both noncontact and contact mechanical disturbances; and voltages generated from both situations can trigger the wake‐up system. Moreover, the specially designed circuit that is compatible with the bTENG can help more accurately control the wake‐up system and prolong the battery life of the electronic networks to 12.4 times. An intrusion detection system is established in the wake‐up circuit to distinguish human motion and judge the scene. This work opens new horizons for wake‐up technologies, and provides new routes for persistent sensing.
Carbazole Derivatized n‐Alkyl Methacrylate Polymeric Memristors as Flexible Synaptic Substitutes
Authors: McFarlane Tucker , Bandera Yuriy , Grant Benjamin , Zdyrko Bogdan , Foulger Stephen H. , Vilčáková Jarmila , Sáha Petr , Pfleger Jiří
Published: May 2020

A memristor is a two‐terminal electronic device whose observed conductance is dependent on the history of the voltage that has been applied across the device. In this effort, poly(11‐(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)undecyl methacrylate) (PUMA) is fabricated into a two‐terminal device with Al and ITO electrodes and exhibits a number of signature memristor characteristics such as an irreversible transition from an insulator to a conductor at a specific DC voltage and hysteresis in the AC response. A PUMA‐based device could transition through a multitude of conductance states with varying voltage, allowing the device to exhibit spike‐timing‐dependent‐plasticity, an essential feature in replicating the behavior of biological synapses.
The use of venetoclax‐based salvage therapy for post‐hematopoietic cell transplantation relapse of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Byrne Michael , Danielson Nathalie , Sengsayadeth Salyka , Rasche Adrianne , Culos Katie , Gatwood Katie , Wyatt Houston , Chinratanalab Wichai , Dholaria Bhagirathbhai , Ferrell P. Brent , Fogo Kristin , Goodman Stacey , Jagasia Madan , Jayani Reena , Kassim Adetola , Mohan Sanjay R. , Savani Bipin N. , Strickland Stephen A. , Engelhardt Brian G. , Savona Michael
Published: May 2020

For patients with high risk myeloid disease, allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is the only potentially curative therapy. Unfortunately, many of these patients relapse after HCT and have a limited survival. The recent approval of venetoclax, an orally bioavailable BCL‐2 inhibitor, resulted in significant responses in treatment naïve acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and off‐label use in the relapsed/refractory setting is increasing. We report the outcomes of 21 patients who underwent allogeneic HCT for myeloid disease, relapsed with AML, and were treated with venetoclax. Several patients had poor risk features including antecedent hematologic malignancy (6/21), complex karyotype (6/21), and TP53 mutations (5/21). The median age was 64.5 years and time from HCT to relapse was 5.7 months (range: 0.9 to 44.9 months). Of the 19 patients who were assessed for response, there were meaningful treatment responses seen in eight patients: five CR, three CRi, zero PR, for an ORR of 42.1%. Treatment effect was seen in six additional patients, including four in the morphologic leukemia‐free state. Nine patients maintained their response for ≥3 months and eight were receiving therapy at data cut. Post‐HCT AML relapse has an exceedingly poor outcome, and venetoclax‐based therapy is a potent therapy option that should be studied prospectively in this setting.
Adult lead exposure from ammunition reloading and indoor residential shooting
Authors: Johnson‐Arbor Kelly , Soto Pelayia , Liu Lindsy
Published: May 2020

The use and maintenance of firearms is a common and often preventable source of adult lead exposure that is often poorly understood by medical professionals. This case describes an elevated blood lead level (BLL) in an adult man due to the exposure sources of ammunition reloading and indoor target shooting in the basement of his home and details the challenges involved in the diagnosis and management of such cases. The elevated BLL was reduced through strict attention to personal hygiene during the reloading process and while shooting, improved ventilation and cleaning of the basement, and avoidance of vacuuming and use of dry cleaning techniques. Medical providers may be unfamiliar with the risks of indoor residential shooting and how to ameliorate them; this knowledge deficit may result in delays in diagnosis as well as an inability to successfully mitigate the risks for exposure. Time‐sensitive diagnosis and treatment, comprehensive risk assessments, and reduction of exposure sources are important facets in the care of adult patients who are exposed to lead through recreational activities. Health care professionals should be aware of the potential dangers of ammunition reloading and indoor shooting, be familiar with ways to reduce lead exposure during these activities, and understand the resources that are available for the management of lead‐exposed patients.
Preparation of Steady 3D Dark State Entanglement in Dissipative Rydberg Atoms via Electromagnetic Induced Transparency
Authors: Zhu Xiao‐Yu , Jin Zhao , Liang Erjun , Zhang Shou , Su Shi‐Lei
Published: May 2020

A scheme to prepare a 3D entangled state between a pair of Rydberg atoms via dissipative dynamics and electromagnetic induced transparency associated with the single‐atom dark state is proposed. The prepared entangled state is the dark state of the whole system. The scheme is also feasible regardless of initial purity or mixed state. Since the proposed scheme is based on the Rydberg block regime, the Rydberg–Rydberg interaction strength does not need to satisfy a certain relation with laser detuning, which is very different to the Rydberg‐antiblock‐based dissipative schemes. One group of Rydberg states and corresponding parameters to simulate the fidelity are used, which verify the feasibility of the scheme.
Stereoselective [4+2]‐Cycloaddition with Chiral Alkenylboranes
Authors: Ni Dongshun , Witherspoon Brittany P. , Zhang Hong , Zhou Chen , Houk K. N. , Brown M. Kevin
Published: May 2020

A method for the stereoselective [4+2]‐cycloaddition of alkenylboranes and dienes is presented. This transformation was accomplished through the introduction of a new strategy that involves the use of chiral N‐protonated alkenyl oxazaborolidines as dieneophiles. The reaction leads to the formation of products that can be readily derivatized to more complex structural motifs through stereospecific transformations of the C−B bond such as oxidation and homologation. Detailed computation evaluation of the reaction has uncovered a surprising role of the counterion on stereoselectivity.
Mechanophotonics: Flexible Single‐Crystal Organic Waveguides and Circuits
Authors: Annadhasan Mari , Agrawal Abhijeet R. , Bhunia Surojit , Pradeep Vuppu Vinay , Zade Sanjio S. , Reddy C. Malla , Chandrasekar Rajadurai
Published: May 2020

We present the one‐dimensional optical‐waveguiding crystal dithieno[3,2‐a:2′,3′‐c]phenazine with a high aspect ratio, high mechanical flexibility, and selective self‐absorbance of the blue part of its fluorescence (FL). While macrocrystals exhibit elasticity, microcrystals deposited at a glass surface behave more like plastic crystals due to significant surface adherence, making them suitable for constructing photonic circuits via micromechanical operation with an atomic‐force‐microscopy cantilever tip. The flexible crystalline waveguides display optical‐path‐dependent FL signals at the output termini in both straight and bent configurations, making them appropriate for wavelength‐division multiplexing technologies. A reconfigurable 2×2‐directional coupler fabricated via micromanipulation by combining two arc‐shaped crystals splits the optical signal via evanescent coupling and delivers the signals at two output terminals with different splitting ratios. The presented mechanical micromanipulation technique could also be effectively extended to other flexible crystals.
Pd(II)‐Catalyzed Tandem Enantioselective Methylene C(sp3)−H Alkenylation–Aza‐Wacker Cyclization to Access β‐Stereogenic γ‐Lactams
Authors: Ding Yi , Han Ye‐Qiang , Wu Le‐Song , Zhou Tao , Yao Qi‐Jun , Feng Ya‐Lan , Li Ya , Kong Ke‐Xin , Shi Bing‐Feng
Published: May 2020

Herein, we describe an unprecedented cascade reaction to β‐stereogenic γ‐lactams involving Pd(II)‐catalyzed enantioselective aliphatic methylene C(sp3)−H alkenylation–aza‐Wacker cyclization through syn‐aminopalladation. Readily available 3,3′‐substituted BINOLs are used as chiral ligands, providing the corresponding γ‐lactams with broad scope and high enantioselectivities (up to 98 % ee).
Modular and Selective Arylation of Aryl Germanes (C−GeEt3) over C−Bpin, C−SiR3 and Halogens Enabled by Light‐Activated Gold Catalysis
Authors: Sherborne Grant J. , Gevondian Avetik G. , Funes‐Ardoiz Ignacio , Dahiya Amit , Fricke Christoph , Schoenebeck Franziska
Published: May 2020

Selective C
–C
couplings are powerful strategies for the rapid and programmable construction of bi‐ or multiaryls. To this end, the next frontier of synthetic modularity will likely arise from harnessing the coupling space that is orthogonal to the powerful Pd‐catalyzed coupling regime. This report details the realization of this concept and presents the fully selective arylation of aryl germanes (which are inert under Pd0/PdII catalysis) in the presence of the valuable functionalities C−BPin, C−SiMe3, C−I, C−Br, C−Cl, which in turn offer versatile opportunities for diversification. The protocol makes use of visible light activation combined with gold catalysis, which facilitates the selective coupling of C−Ge with aryl diazonium salts. Contrary to previous light‐/gold‐catalyzed couplings of Ar–N2+, which were specialized in Ar–N2+ scope, we present conditions to efficiently couple electron‐rich, electron‐poor, heterocyclic and sterically hindered aryl diazonium salts. Our computational data suggest that while electron‐poor Ar–N2+ salts are readily activated by gold under blue‐light irradiation, there is a competing dissociative deactivation pathway for excited electron‐rich Ar–N2+, which requires an alternative photo‐redox approach to enable productive couplings.
Asymmetric Dearomative Fluorination of 2‐Naphthols with a Dicarboxylate Phase‐Transfer Catalyst
Authors: Egami Hiromichi , Rouno Taiki , Niwa Tomoki , Masuda Kousuke , Yamashita Kenji , Hamashima Yoshitaka
Published: May 2020

A linked dicarboxylate phase‐transfer catalyst enables smooth asymmetric dearomative fluorination of 2‐naphthols with Selectfluor under mild conditions to give the corresponding 1‐fluoronaphthalenone derivatives in a highly enantioselective manner. This reaction, which is compatible with a range of functional groups, is the first example of catalytic asymmetric fluorination of 2‐naphthols, and is expected to be useful in the synthesis of bioactive molecules.
Strategies for the Syntheses of Pactamycin and Jogyamycin
Authors: Gerstner Nels C. , Nicastri Kate A. , Schomaker Jennifer M.
Published: May 2020

Pactamycin and jogyamycin are aminocyclopentitol natural products, where each core carbon bears a stereodefined alcohol or amine moiety. Their structural complexity, coupled with the diversity of functional groups coexisting in a condensed space, make them fascinating synthetic targets in their own right. Pactamycin and its derivatives bind to the 30S ribosomal subunit and display activity against parasites responsible for drug‐resistant malaria and African sleeping sickness; however, efforts to develop their therapeutic potential have been hampered by their cellular toxicity. Interestingly, bioengineered analogues display differences in selectivity and toxicity towards mammalian cells, spurring efforts to develop flexible strategies to thoroughly probe structure–activity relationships (SAR), particularly in analogues lacking the C7 hydroxyl group of pactamycin. This review compares and contrasts approaches towards pactamycin and jogyamycin, including two successful total syntheses of the former. The implications of each route for preparing analogues to inform SAR and lead to compounds with increased selectivity for binding malarial over human ribosomes are briefly discussed.
Harnessing Effective Molarity to Design an Electrochemical DNA‐based Platform for Clinically Relevant Antibody Detection
Authors: Rossetti Marianna , Brannetti Simone , Mocenigo Marco , Marini Bruna , Ippodrino Rudy , Porchetta Alessandro
Published: May 2020

Easy‐to‐use platforms for rapid antibody detection are likely to improve molecular diagnostics and immunotherapy monitoring. However, current technologies require multi‐step, time‐consuming procedures that limit their applicability in these fields. Herein, we demonstrate effective molarity‐driven electrochemical DNA‐based detection of target antibodies. We show a highly selective, signal‐on DNA‐based sensor that takes advantage of antibody‐binding‐induced increase of local concentration to detect clinically relevant antibodies in blood serum. The sensing platform is modular, rapid, and versatile and allows the detection of both IgG and IgE antibodies. We also demonstrate the possible use of this strategy for the monitoring of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies in body fluids. Our approach highlights the potential of harnessing effective molarity for the design of electrochemical sensing strategies.
Competitive Salt Precipitation/Dissolution During Free‐Water Reduction in Water‐in‐Salt Electrolyte
Authors: Bouchal Roza , Li Zhujie , Bongu Chandra , Le Vot Steven , Berthelot Romain , Rotenberg Benjamin , Favier Frederic , Freunberger Stefan A. , Salanne Mathieu , Fontaine Olivier
Published: May 2020

Water‐in‐salt electrolytes based on highly concentrated bis(trifluoromethyl)sulfonimide (TFSI) promise aqueous electrolytes with stabilities nearing 3 V. However, especially with an electrode approaching the cathodic (reductive) stability, cycling stability is insufficient. While stability critically relies on a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), the mechanism behind the cathodic stability limit remains unclear. Now, two distinct reduction potentials are revealed for the chemical environments of free and bound water and that both contribute to SEI formation. Free water is reduced about 1 V above bound water in a hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and is responsible for SEI formation via reactive intermediates of the HER; concurrent LiTFSI precipitation/dissolution establishes a dynamic interface. The free‐water population emerges, therefore, as the handle to extend the cathodic limit of aqueous electrolytes and the battery cycling stability.
Stable ion bond for high damping, high wet resistance, and low rolling resistance high vinyl polybutadiene rubber‐based dicarboxylate ionomer
Authors: Yuan Yuka , Liu Kai , Wang Zhaobo , Liu Yudong , Hua Jing
Published: May 2020

Since the implementation of European Union (EU) tire label, the focus of recent attention has been focused on high performance green tire with low rolling resistance, high wet resistance, low noise, and excellent auto‐braking properties. However, it is a significant challenge to simultaneously achieve these performances for rubber materials. In this research, we developed a novel concept on the construction of stable ion bonds for high performance high vinyl polybutadiene rubber (HVBR)‐based dicarboxylate ionomers. HVBR‐based dicarboxylate sodium ionomer (hereafter referred as Na ionomer) was fabricated through complexation reaction of some or all of carboxylic functional groups on the preprepared maleinized HVBR molecular chains with sodium hydroxide. In the case of Na ionomers, the formation of sodium carboxylate group was certified from Fourier transform infrared spectra. Physical and dynamic mechanical measurements indicated that the tensile strength, wear resistance, wet skid resistance, dry sliding resistance, low rolling resistance, and low heat buildup of the Na ionomer were significantly improved compared to that of HVBR, and Na ionomer simultaneously showed better damping properties and the effective damping temperature range was broadened from −8.8 to 30.1°C, which was closer to the room temperature. Consequently, the approach and results collectively represent a significant advance toward the development of high performance green tire rubber materials.
Differential fibrotic phenotypes of hepatic stellate cells within 3D liver organoids
Authors: Brovold Matthew , Keller Dale , Soker Shay
Published: May 2020

Liver fibrosis occurs in most cases of chronic liver disease, which are somewhat common, but also a potentially deadly group of diseases. In vitro modeling of liver fibrosis relies primarily on the isolation of in vivo activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) and studying them in standard tissue culture dishes (two‐dimensional [2D]). In contrast, modeling of fibrosis in a biofabricated three‐dimensional (3D) construct allows us to study changes to the environment, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and structure, and tissue rigidity. In the current study, we used aHSCs produced through subcultures in 2D and encapsulated them in a 3D collagen gel to form spherical constructs. In parallel, and as a comparison, we used an established HSC line, LX‐2, representing early and less severe fibrosis. Compared with LX‐2 cells, the aHSCs created a stiffer environment and expressed higher levels of TIMP1 and LOXL2, all of which are indicative of advanced liver fibrosis. Collectively, this study presents a fibrosis model that could be incorporated with multi‐cellular models to more accurately reflect the effects of a severe fibrotic environment on liver function.
Exploration and practical research on teaching reforms of engineering practice center based on 3I‐CDIO‐OBE talent‐training mode
Authors: Chen Wei‐Ping , Lin You‐Xi , Ren Zhi‐Ying , Shen Ding
Published: May 2020

Education leads to engineering and engineering depends on practice. The Engineering Training Practice Center is a Chinese institution for engineering practice teaching to improve students' practical and engineering capabilities. It also empowers students with innovative abilities and comprehensive engineering literacy. With an increasing number of new challenges and situations, innovating and reforming engineering practice education to meet the development needs has become an important topic in current higher engineering education. On the basis of outcomes‐based education (OBE) and conceive–design–implement–operate (CDIO) education models, combined with emerging engineering education (integration, inheritance, and innovation [3I]), a 3I‐CDIO‐OBE talent‐training model for Chinese engineering education is proposed, and the attributes of general, professional, and innovative education were fully accounted for in the engineering practice teaching. A multilevel + multidisciplinary + innovative and practical engineering teaching system has been successfully constructed, which has started achieving the goals, paving a way of thinking to actively explore the engineering practice teaching reforms in colleges and universities.
An integrative histopathologic clustering model based on immuno‐matrix elements to predict the risk of death in malignant mesothelioma
Authors: Balancin Marcelo Luiz , Teodoro Walcy Rosolia , Farhat Cecilia , de Miranda Tomas Jurandir , Assato Aline Kawassaki , de Souza Silva Neila Aparecida , Velosa Ana Paula , Falzoni Roberto , Ab'Saber Alexandre Muxfeldt , Roden Anja C. , Capelozzi Vera Luiza
Published: May 2020

Objective

Previous studies have reported a close relationship between malignant mesothelioma (MM) and the immune matricial microenvironment (IMM). One of the major problems in these studies is the lack of adequate adjustment for potential confounders. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify and quantify risk factors such as IMM and various tumor characteristics and their association with the subtype of MM and survival.

Methods

We examined IMM and other tumor markers in tumor tissues from 82 patients with MM. These markers were evaluated by histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and morphometry. Logistic regression analysis, cluster analysis, and Cox regression analysis were performed.

Results

Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed two clusters of MM that were independent of clinicopathologic features. The high‐risk cluster included MM with high tumor cellularity, high type V collagen (Col V) fiber density, and low CD8+ T lymphocyte density in the IMM. Our results showed that the risk of death was increased for patients with MM with high tumor cellularity (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.29‐2.89, P = .02), overexpression of Col V (OR = 2.60, 95% CI = 0.98‐6.84, P = .04), and decreased CD8 T lymphocytes (OR = 1.001, 95% CI = 0.995‐1.007, P = .008). The hazard ratio for the high‐risk cluster was 2.19 (95% CI = 0.54‐3.03, P < .01) for mortality from MM at 40 months.

Conclusion

Morphometric analysis of Col V, CD8+ T lymphocytes, and tumor cellularity can be used to identify patients with high risk of death from MM.
Electrode Engineering with CNTs to Enhance the Electrochemical Performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Cathodes with Commercial Level Design Parameters
Authors: Kim Dong Won , Hwang Soo Min , Yoo Ji Beom , Kim Young‐Jun
Published: May 2020

Electrode engineering is considered an essential step toward fabricating advanced Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). Conducting agents play a critical role in determining both the electron conduction and Li‐ion transport in electrodes and thus in enhancing battery performance. Here, we report the effect of carbon nanotube (CNT) addition on the electrochemical properties of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622) cathodes. By varying the CNT content from 0 to 2 wt% in the total weight percentage (2 wt%) of conducting agents containing carbon black, the rate capability and cycling performance are examined. The limiting factors affecting the electrochemical performance are probed by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and pulse polarization measurements. The results show that as the CNT content increases, the electrical conductivity of the electrode decreases and the porosity increases. The addition of 1 wt% CNT gives rise to the best rate and cycling properties for the NCM622 electrodes. The pulse measurements reveal that the CNT addition mitigates the concentration polarization upon charging/discharging at high current rates owing to the evolved micrometer‐scale pores in the electrodes, thereby leading to better rate capability. The post‐mortem analysis on the electrodes discharged at a high current rate by time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy mapping show that the CNT addition allows facile Li‐ion transport from the electrolyte side into the NCM lattice, even in the vicinity of the bottom region (current collector side), which strongly corroborates the pulse polarization results. These findings suggest that the use of CNTs as a conducting agent is effective in improving the electrochemical performance of Ni‐rich cathodes.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Regioselective B(3)‐Alkenylation/B(3,6)‐Dialkenylation of o‐Carboranes by Direct B−H Activation
Authors: Cheng Ruofei , Qiu Zaozao , Xie Zuowei
Published: May 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Zaozao Qiu and Zuowei Xie at the Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, CAS. The image depicts the cis‐ and trans‐o‐carborane products reported in this work. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202000549.
LRRTM4 is a member of the transsynaptic complex between rod photoreceptors and bipolar cells
Authors: Agosto Melina A. , Wensel Theodore G.
Published: May 2020

Leucine rich repeat transmembrane (LRRTM) proteins are synaptic adhesion molecules with roles in synapse formation and signaling. LRRTM4 transcripts were previously shown to be enriched in rod bipolar cells (BCs), secondary neurons of the retina that form synapses with rod photoreceptors. Using two different antibodies, LRRTM4 was found to reside primarily at rod BC dendritic tips, where it colocalized with the transduction channel protein, TRPM1. LRRTM4 was not detected at dendritic tips of ON‐cone BCs. Following somatic knockout of LRRTM4 in BCs by subretinal injection and electroporation of CRISPR/Cas9, LRRTM4 was abolished or reduced in the dendritic tips of transfected cells. Knockout cells had a normal complement of TRPM1 at their dendritic tips, while GPR179 accumulation was partially reduced. In experiments with heterologously expressed protein, the extracellular domain of LRRTM4 was found to engage in heparan‐sulfate dependent binding with pikachurin. These results implicate LRRTM4 in the GPR179‐pikachurin‐dystroglycan transsynaptic complex at rod synapses.
Long‐Lived Triplet Excited State Accessed with Spin–Orbit Charge Transfer Intersystem Crossing in Red Light‐Absorbing Phenoxazine‐Styryl BODIPY Electron Donor/Acceptor Dyads
Authors: Dong Yu , Elmali Ayhan , Zhao Jianzhang , Dick Bernhard , Karatay Ahmet
Published: May 2020

Orthogonal phenoxazine‐styryl BODIPY compact electron donor/acceptor dyads were prepared as heavy atom‐free triplet photosensitizers (PSs) with strong red light absorption (ϵ=1.33×105 M−1 cm−1 at 630 nm), whereas the previously reported triplet photosensitizers based on the spin‐orbit charge transfer intersystem crossing (SOCT‐ISC) mechanism show absorption in a shorter wavelength range (<500 nm). More importantly, a long‐lived triplet state (τT=333 μs) was observed for the new dyads. In comparison, the triplet state lifetime of the same chromophore accessed with the conventional heavy atom effect (HAE) is much shorter (τT=1.8 μs). Long triplet state lifetime is beneficial to enhance electron or energy transfer, the primary photophysical processes in the application of triplet PSs. Our approach is based on SOCT‐ISC, without invoking of the HAE, which may shorten the triplet state lifetime. We used bisstyrylBodipy both as the electron acceptor and the visible light‐harvesting chromophore, which shows red‐light absorption. Femtosecond transient absorption spectra indicated the charge separation (109 ps) and SOCT‐ISC (charge recombination, CR; 2.3 ns) for BDP‐1. ISC efficiency of BDP‐1 was determined as ΦT=25 % (in toluene). The dyad BDP‐3 was used as triplet PS for triplet‐triplet annihilation upconversion (upconversion quantum yield ΦUC=1.5 %; anti‐Stokes shift is 5900 cm−1).
Rapid Synthesis of Nucleoside Triphosphates and Analogues
Authors: Ripp Alexander , Singh Jyoti , Jessen Henning J.
Published: May 2020

Nucleoside triphosphates (NTPs) are essential biomolecules involved in almost all biological processes, and their study is therefore critical to understanding cellular biology. Here, we describe a chemical synthesis suitable for obtaining both natural and highly modified NTPs, which can, for example, be used as surrogates to probe biological processes. The approach includes the preparation of a reagent that enables the facile introduction and modification of three phosphate units: cyclic pyrophosphoryl P‐amidite (c‐PyPA), derived from pyrophosphate (PV) and a reactive phosphoramidite (PIII). By using non‐hydrolyzable analogues of pyrophosphate, the reagent can be readily modified to obtain a family of non‐hydrolyzable analogues containing CH2, CF2, CCl2, and NH that are stable in solution for several weeks if stored appropriately. They enable the synthesis of NTPs by reaction with nucleosides to give deoxycyclotriphosphate esters that are then oxidized to cyclotriphosphate (cyclo‐TP) esters. The use of different oxidizing agents provides an opportunity for modification at P‐α. Furthermore, terminal modifications at P‐γ can be introduced by linearization of the cyclo‐TP ester with various nucleophiles. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of cyclic pyrophosphoryl P‐amidite (c‐PyPA) and derivatives (c‐PyNHPA, c‐PyCH2PA, c‐PyCCl2PA, c‐PyCF2PA)

Basic Protocol 2: Synthesis of 3′‐azidothymidine 5′‐γ‐P‐propargylamido triphosphates and analogues

Basic Protocol 3: Synthesis of 2′‐deoxythymidine 5′‐γ‐P‐propargylamido triphosphate (15)

Basic Protocol 4: Synthesis of adenosine 5′‐γ‐P‐amido triphosphate (19) and adenosine 5′‐γ‐P‐propargylamido triphosphate (20)

Basic Protocol 5: Synthesis of d4T 5′‐γ‐propargylamido β,γ‐(difluoromethylene)triphosphate

Support Protocol: Synthesis of diisopropylphosphoramidous dichloride
Dealloyed Nanoporous Materials for Rechargeable Post‐Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wu Xuan , He Guang , Ding Yi
Published: May 2020

Nanoporous materials (NPMs) made by dealloying have been well recognized as multifunctional electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). In recent years, there are ever‐increasing demands on grid‐scale energy storage devices composed by earth‐abundant elements such as Na, K, Mg, Al, and Zn. Compared to LIBs, these electrochemical cells face critical challenges such as slow kinetics of redox reactions and structural instability owing to large ion size and/or multiple‐electron process. Much interest has been focused on NPMs to address these issues with great success. This Minireview discusses the recent research progresses on these novel electrode materials in the emerging post‐lithium batteries, including the rational‐design of NPMs, structure‐performance correlation in each battery system, and insights into future development of this rapidly growing field.
Dynamics of peripheral immune cells and their HLA‐G and receptor expressions in a patient suffering from critical COVID‐19 pneumonia to convalescence
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Gan Jun , Chen Bao‐Guo , Zheng Dan , Zhang Jian‐Gang , Lin Rong‐Hai , Zhou Yi‐Ping , Yang Wei‐Ying , Lin Aifen , Yan Wei‐Hua
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Host immune responses are indispensable to combat the disease. We report the dynamics of peripheral immune cells, cytokines, and human leucocyte antigen‐G (HLA‐G) and its receptor expressions in a patient suffering from critical COVID‐19 pneumonia to convalescence.

Methods

Clinical data of the patient were collected from medical records. The expressions of HLA‐G and receptors ILT2, ILT4 and KIR2DL4 in peripheral immune cells were measured with flow cytometry.

Results

From critical COVID‐19 to the convalescent stage, early lymphopenia was improved (median: 0.6 × 109 L−1 vs. 0.9 × 109 L−1, P = 0.009), and an obvious fluctuation in WBC and neutrophil counts was observed. Initially, low levels of CD4+ T cells (from 120 to 528 μL−1) and CD8+ T cells (from 68 to 362 μL−1) gradually increased to normal levels. Meanwhile, high IL‐6 (from 251.8 to 6.32 pg mL−1), IL‐10 (from 39.53 to 5.21 pg mL−1) and IFN‐γ (from 13.55 to 3.16 pg mL−1) levels decreased, and IL‐4 (from 2.36 to 3.19 pg mL−1) and TNF‐α (from 2.27 to 20.2 pg mL−1) levels increased quickly when the viral RNA returned negative. Moreover, the percentage of HLA‐G+ T cells, B cells and monocytes follows high–low–high pattern, while the percentage of receptors ILT2‐, ILT4‐ and KIR2DL4‐expressing cells remained relatively stable.

Conclusion

Our findings provide valuable information on the dynamics of early peripheral immunological responses in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, cytokines and HLA‐G+ immune cells are associated with the natural history of the critical COVID‐19 patient; however, future studies are necessary.
Tailoring the Porous Structure of Mono‐dispersed Hierarchically Nitrogen‐doped Carbon Spheres for Highly Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Shu Chengyong , Gan Zhuofan , Hou Yuyang , Zhu Ting , Ma Jijun , Tang Wei , Wu Yuping
Published: May 2020

The search for a low‐cost metal‐free cathode material with excellent mass transfer structure and catalytic activity in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one of the most challenging issues in fuel cells. In this work, nitrogen‐rich m‐phenylenediamine is introduced into the synthesis of porous carbon spheres to tune the pore structure and nitrogen‐doped active sites. As a result, more pyridinic N and pyrrolic N functional species were observed at the interior and surface of the carbon spheres. The introduction of m‐phenylenediamine also regulated the nucleating of precursors, an urchin‐like mesoporous surface structure ensures point contact and less agglomeration between each particle was obtained. With optimized proportion of micropores/mesopores and improved nitrogen‐contained functional species, the ORR activity can be remarkably improved. The half‐wave potential of this catalyst could achieve to 0.81 V (versus RHE) which is only 42 mV lower than commercial Pt/C catalyst. Furthermore, the optimized cathode catalyst achieved a 69 mW cm−2maximum power density when operated in direct methanol fuel cells at room temperature.
Practical Decagram‐Scale Synthesis of a Lamellarin Analogue and Deprotection of Lamellarin Isopropyl Ethers
Authors: Klintworth Robin , de Koning Charles B. , Michael Joseph P.
Published: May 2020

Modular syntheses of naturally occurring lamellarin ε (5) and the synthetic analogue dehydrolamellarin J (6), both of them promising lead candidates for anticancer activity, were accomplished in high overall yields. Key steps in these routes are a late‐stage installation of the central pyrrole core by [4 + 1] cyclocondensation between ethyl bromoacetate and an enaminone possessing the remaining components of the lamellarin skeleton; and our recently revealed demethylative lactonization for building the chromenone components. Additionally, a mild and nearly quantitative new method for cleaving isopropyl‐protected phenols at room temperature with the comparatively green reagent methanesulfonic acid has been developed. The feasibility of exploiting the simplicity and efficiency of the new reactions on a multi‐gram scale was demonstrated by preparing over 25 g of dehydrolamellarin J, one of the most cytotoxic anticancer agents in the lamellarin family, without the need for chromatographic purification of intermediates.
Microfluidic device for concentration and SERS‐based detection of bacteria in drinking water
Authors: Krafft Benjamin , Tycova Anna , Urban Raphael D. , Dusny Christian , Belder Detlev
Published: May 2020

There is a constant need for the development of easy‐to‐operate systems for the rapid and unambiguous identification of bacterial pathogens in drinking water without the requirement for time‐consuming culture processes. In this study, we present a disposable and low‐cost lab‐on‐a‐chip device utilizing a nanoporous membrane, which connects two stacked perpendicular microfluidic channels. Whereas one of the channels supplies the sample, the second one attracts it by potential‐driven forces. Surface‐enhanced Raman spectrometry (SERS) is employed as a reliable detection method for bacteria identification. To gain the effect of surface enhancement, silver nanoparticles were added to the sample. The pores of the membrane act as a filter trapping the bodies of microorganisms as well as clusters of nanoparticles creating suitable conditions for sensitive SERS detection. Therein, we focused on the construction and characterization of the device performance. To demonstrate the functionality of the microfluidic chip, we analyzed common pathogens (Escherichia coli DH5α and Pseudomonas taiwanensis VLB120) from spiked tap water using the optimized experimental parameters. The obtained results confirmed our system to be promising for the construction of a disposable optical platform for reliable and rapid pathogen detection which couples their electrokinetic concentration on the integrated nanoporous membrane with SERS detection.
Distributed Generation from Renewable Energy Sources: Ending Energy Poverty across the World
Authors: Pagliaro Mario , Meneguzzo Francesco
Published: May 2020

Following an updated outlook of global energy production and utilization, selected examples from both developing and developed countries show how distributed generation from renewable solar energy is the key solution to ending energy poverty across the world. Guidelines aimed at policy makers suggest a systems view of energy that will be instrumental in guiding the transition from fossil fuels to combustion‐free renewable energy for all energy uses.
Experimental and simulation‐based investigations on throttle’s head loss coefficients of a surge tank
Authors: Zhou Jianxu , Palikhe Sunit , Cai Fulin , Liu Yuefei
Published: May 2020

For the different types of throttled surge tanks used in hydropower systems, it is important to comprehensively know the throttle's head loss characteristics for exact surge analysis and transient control. Herein, a general and complete experimental setup was designed to steadily reproduce the 12 typical flow regimes occurring at the surge tank and thus conduct comprehensive experimental research on throttle head loss coefficients. Furthermore, an extended mathematical model for the surge tank was derived by inputting experimental data on the throttle's head loss coefficients to surge analysis. Through experimental research, the throttle's head loss coefficients were determined by fitting formulae relative to the different flow regimes and discharge ratios; via a detailed case analysis, the differences in the head loss characteristics for different throttle types were accurately determined. It was demonstrated that the throttle's head loss coefficient varies with discharge ratio under different flow regimes and found that the experimentally obtained flow coefficients for different throttle types are more accurate and clearly reveal the difference of throttles’ head loss characteristics. The extended mathematical model for the throttled surge tank can provide more accurate simulation results and guidance for its engineering design and layout.
Synthesis of Peptide Cysteine Dimedone Using Fmoc‐Cys(Dmd)‐OH: Glutathione Cysteine Dimedone as a Probe in Investigating the Sulfenic Acid Mediated Oxidation of Glutathione
Authors: Amarnath Reddy K. Kasi , Moi Smriti , Dolle Ashwini , Hosamani Basavaprabhu , Krishnamurthy Kiran , Prakash Sunita , Raghothama Srinivasarao , Gowd Konkallu Hanumae
Published: May 2020

Dimedone is the most widely used chemical probe for detection of cysteine sulfenic acid in peptides and proteins. The reaction of dimedone with cysteine sulfenic acid results in the formation of unique cysteine dimedone motif containing thioether bridge. Based on the structure of cysteine dimedone residue in polypeptide, a new building block of Fmoc‐Cys(Dmd)‐OH was developed for solid phase synthesis of peptide cysteine dimedone. Mass spectrometric sequencing of synthetic peptides have confirmed successful incorporation of cysteine dimedone in peptide chain using HBTU/HOBt as a coupling agent. The new method permits synthesis of peptides containing both cysteine thiol and cysteine dimedone in the same sequence which was difficult to achieve by conventional methods. The synthetic peptide of glutathione cysteine dimedone was used as a standard in probing the air‐mediated oxidation of thiol to disulfide form of glutathione. The co‐elution of standard peptide and reaction mixture of oxidation of glutathione in presence of dimedone using RP‐HPLC have confirmed the formation of glutathione cysteine sulfenic as an intermediate in the air‐mediated oxidation of glutathione. The synthetic peptides of cysteine dimedone may find application in the field of redox proteomics and generation of antibodies against modified cysteine residue.
A subset analysis of a phase II trial evaluating the use of DFMO as maintenance therapy for high‐risk neuroblastoma
Authors: Lewis Elizabeth C. , Kraveka Jacqueline M. , Ferguson William , Eslin Don , Brown Valerie I. , Bergendahl Genevieve , Roberts William , Wada Randal K. , Oesterheld Javier , Mitchell Deanna , Foley Jessica , Zage Peter , Rawwas Jawhar , Rich Maria , Lorenzi Elizabeth , Broglio Kristine , Berry Donald , Saulnier Sholler Giselle L.
Published: May 2020

Neuroblastoma is a sympathetic nervous system tumor, primarily presenting in children under 6 years of age. The long‐term prognosis for patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma (HRNB) remains poor despite aggressive multimodal therapy. This report provides an update to a phase II trial evaluating DFMO as maintenance therapy in HRNB. Event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) of 81 subjects with HRNB treated with standard COG induction, consolidation and immunotherapy followed by 2 years of DFMO on the NMTRC003/003b Phase II trial were compared to a historical cohort of 76 HRNB patients treated at Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium (BCC) hospitals who were disease‐free after completion of standard upfront therapy and did not receive DFMO. The 2‐ and 5‐year EFS were 86.4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 79.3%‐94.2%] and 85.2% [77.8%‐93.3%] for the NMTRC003/003b subset vs 78.3% [69.5%‐88.3%] and 65.6% [55.5%‐77.5%] for the historical control group. The 2‐ and 5‐year OS were 98.8% [96.4‐100%] and 95.1% [90.5%‐99.9%] vs 94.4% [89.3%‐99.9%] and 81.6% [73.0%‐91.2%], respectively. DFMO maintenance for HRNB after completion of standard of care therapy was associated with improved EFS and OS relative to historical controls treated at the same institutions. These results support additional investigations into the potential role of DFMO in preventing relapse in HRNB.
Effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on female sexual behavior
Authors: Yuksel Bahar , Ozgor Faruk
Published: May 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on female sexual behavior in women in Turkey.

Methods

An observational study using data from a previous study conducted prior to the pandemic. We compared frequency of sexual intercourse, desire for pregnancy, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) score, contraception type, and menstrual abnormalities among women during the pandemic with 6–12 months prior to the pandemic. Participants were contacted by telephone for questioning.

Results

Average frequency of sexual intercourse was significantly increased during the pandemic compared with 6–12 months prior (2.4 vs 1.9, P=0.001). Before the pandemic 19 (32.7%) participants desired to become pregnant, whereas during the pandemic it had decreased to 3 (5.1%) (P=0.001). Conversely, use of contraception during the pandemic significantly decreased among participants compared with prior (24 vs 10, P=0.004). Menstrual disorders were more common during the pandemic than before (27.6% vs 12.1%, P=0.008). Participants had significantly better FSFI scores before the pandemic compared with scores during the pandemic (20.52 vs 17.56, P=0.001).

Conclusion

Sexual desire and frequency of intercourse significantly increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic, whereas quality of sexual life significantly decreased. The pandemic is associated with decreased desire for pregnancy, decreased female contraception, and increased menstrual disorders.
Vascular changes precede tomographic changes in diabetic eyes without retinopathy and improve artificial intelligence diagnostics
Authors: Govindaswamy Nivedhitha , Ratra Dhanashree , Dalan Daleena , Doralli Subashchandra , Tirumalai Anirudha A. , Nagarajan Rajesh , Mochi Thirumalesh , Shetty Naren , Sinha Roy Abhijit
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate early vascular and tomographic changes in the retina of diabetic patients using artificial intelligence (AI). The study included 74 age‐matched normal eyes, 171 diabetic eyes without retinopathy (DWR) eyes and 69 mild non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) eyes. All patients underwent optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) imaging. Tomographic features (thickness and volume) were derived from the OCTA B‐scans. These features were used in AI models. Both OCT and OCTA features showed significant differences between the groups (P < .05). However, the OCTA features indicated early retinal changes in DWR eyes better than OCT (P < .05). In the AI model using both OCT and OCTA features simultaneously, the best area under the curve of 0.91 ± 0.02 was obtained (P < .05). Thus, the combined use of AI, OCT and OCTA significantly improved the early diagnosis of diabetic changes in the retina.
What sets the conditions for success in community‐partnered evaluation work? Multiple perspectives on a small‐scale research‐practice partnership evaluation
Authors: Ballard Parissa J. , Rhoades Lynn , Fuller Lori
Published: May 2020

The goals of this study are: (a) to share reflections from multiple stakeholders involved in a foundation‐funded community‐partnered evaluation project, (b) to share information that might be useful to researchers, practitioners, and funders considering the merits of researcher/practitioner evaluation projects, and (c) to make specific suggestions for funders and researcher/practitioner teams starting an evaluation project. Three stakeholders in a small‐scale research‐practice partnership (RPP) reflected on the evaluation project by responding to three prompts. A researcher, community organization leader, and funder at a small foundation share specific tips for those considering a small‐scale RPP. Engaging in a small‐scale RPPs can be a very meaningful experience for individual researchers and smaller organizations and funders. The benefits and challenges align and differ in many ways with those encountered in larger projects.
The journey of sensemaking and identity construction in the aftermath of trauma: Peer support as a vehicle for coconstruction
Authors: van de Ven Pien
Published: May 2020

Sensemaking is rooted in identity construction and it is a particularly interpersonal process. Moreover, traumatic experiences are known to cause people to engage in sensemaking processes and identity construction. However, knowledge of how this works in an interpersonal, community setting, is lacking. The aim of this study is to assess how peer support contributes to the sensemaking processes and identity construction in the aftermath of trauma. Data from an observational study of organised peer support groups for (co)victims of serious crimes and survivors of traumatic loss were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results show how participants of peer support groups move through several phases of sensemaking and identity construction in a fluid, dynamic, way. Identity work is collectively done. Through coconstruction of their identities, participants are able to make sense of a traumatic experience and progress towards a more self‐aware and self‐centred identity.