bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nucleotide‐Selective Templated Self‐Assembly of Nanoreactors under Dissipative Conditions
Authors: Chandrabhas Sushmitha , Maiti Subhabrata , Fortunati Ilaria , Ferrante Camilla , Gabrielli Luca , Prins Leonard J.
Published: August 2020

Nature adopts complex chemical networks to finely tune biochemical processes. Indeed, small biomolecules play a key role in regulating the flux of metabolic pathways. Chemistry, which was traditionally focused on reactions in simple mixtures, is dedicating increasing attention to the network reactivity of highly complex synthetic systems, able to display new kinetic phenomena. Herein, we show that the addition of monophosphate nucleosides to a mixture of amphiphiles and reagents leads to the selective templated formation of self‐assembled structures, which can accelerate a reaction between two hydrophobic reactants. The correct matching between nucleotide and the amphiphile head group is fundamental for the selective formation of the assemblies and for the consequent up‐regulation of the chemical reaction. Transient stability of the nanoreactors is obtained under dissipative conditions, driven by enzymatic dephosphorylation of the templating nucleotides. These results show that small molecules can play a key role in modulating network reactivity, by selectively templating self‐assembled structures that are able to up‐regulate chemical reaction pathways.
In Situ Ligand Bonding Management of CsPbI3 Perovskite Quantum Dots Enables High‐Performance Photovoltaics and Red Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Shi Junwei , Li Fangchao , Jin Yan , Liu Cheng , Cohen‐Kleinstein Ben , Yuan Shuai , Li Youyong , Wang Zhao‐Kui , Yuan Jianyu , Ma Wanli
Published: August 2020

To fine‐tune surface ligands towards high‐performance devices, we developed an in situ passivation process for all‐inorganic cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) perovskite quantum dots (QDs) by using a bifunctional ligand, L‐phenylalanine (L‐PHE). Through the addition of this ligand into the precursor solution during synthesis, the in situ treated CsPbI3 QDs display significantly reduced surface states, increased vacancy formation energy, higher photoluminescence quantum yields, and much improved stability. Consequently, the L‐PHE passivated CsPbI3 QDs enabled the realization of QD solar cells with an optimal efficiency of 14.62 % and red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) with a highest external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 10.21 %, respectively, demonstrating the great potential of ligand bonding management in improving the optoelectronic properties of solution‐processed perovskite QDs.
An Innovative Hydrogen Peroxide‐Sensing Scaffold and Insight Towards its Potential as an ROS‐Activated Persulfide Donor
Authors: Hankins Rynne A. , Suarez S. Israel , Kalk Madison A. , Green Nolan M. , Harty Megan N. , Lukesh John C.
Published: August 2020

Reactive sulfur species, such as hydrogen sulfide, persulfides, and polysulfides, have recently emerged as key signaling molecules and important physiological mediators within mammalian systems. To better assess the therapeutic potential of their exogenous administration, we report on the development of a unique hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐sensing motif and its capacity for providing cellular protection against oxidative stress while serving as a reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐activated persulfide donor. With the strategic implementation of a gem‐dimethyl group to promote both stability and cyclization, we found the initial rate of payload release from this newly derived scaffold to be directly proportional to the concentration of H2O2 and to proceed via an unprecedented pathway that avoids the production of electrophilic byproducts, a severe limitation that has plagued the physiological application of previous designs.
High thermal conductivity of liquid crystalline monomer‐poly (vinyl alcohol) dispersion films containing microscopic‐ordered structure
Authors: Li Chenggong , Li Ying , Gong Changdan , Ruan Kunpeng , Zhong Xiao , Pan Pan , Liu Chao , Gu Junwei , Shi Xuetao
Published: August 2020

The thermal conductivity of bulk polymers is usually very low, which is due to the amorphous domains where chains are randomly entangled, improving the degree of the chain alignment and forming a continuous thermal conduction network are expected to enhance the thermal conductivity. A series of liquid crystalline monomer‐poly (vinyl alcohol) dispersion (MDLC) films with high thermal conductivity containing microscopic‐ordered structure were prepared by introducing a highly ordered liquid crystalline monomer (LCM) exhibiting Smectic phase. The thermal conductivity of MDLC films was strongly related to the amount of LCM, which firstly increased and then decreased with the increase of LCM content. The thermal conductivity of MDLC film reached up to 1.20 W m−1 K−1 when the content of LCM was 15 wt% and rapidly decreased to 0.85 W m−1 K−1 as the content of LCM further increased to 25 wt%. LCM with low content (1–15 wt%) showed good fluidity, dispersity and interfacial compatibility in PVA molecular chains, which further increases the regularity of molecular chains alignment.
A green resin acid ester surfactant from colophony and xylitol: Synthesis, self‐assembly in nonaqueous solvents, and thermodynamics
Authors: Qiu Hong , Chen Xiaopeng , Wei Xiaojie , Liang Jiezhen , Zhou Dan , Tang Weixiang , Wang Linlin
Published: August 2020

An environmental friendly oil‐soluble surfactant colophony xylitol ester (CXE) is first synthesized from natural colophony and xylitol with the use of hot‐compressed water and subcritical CO2 in a steel autoclave. In this solvent‐free system, the conversion of the reaction was up to 90.30% in 4 h. Thermal gravimetric analysis determine that its thermal stability was as high as 310°C. CXE is effective in reducing the surface tension of six different organic solvents. The greatest effect of surface tension reduction by CXE is in the case of dimethyl sulfoxide, the surface tension of the surfactant solution was as low as 36.26 mN/m at its critical micelle concentration value of 7.49 mM; The greatest effect of interfacial tension reduction by CXE is in the case of turpentine and water, the interfacial tension low to 1.51 mN/m. Furthermore, transmission electron microscope and particle size measurement showed that CXE is successfully self‐assembled into micelles, vesicles, and heteromorphic vesicles in six kinds of organic solvents. Finally, the critical micelle concentration curves at different temperatures provided the thermodynamic parameters of the aggregate formation, found that , , and are negative and increased as the temperature increased.
Potential regulatory implications of Health Canada's new lead guideline
Authors: Locsin Javier M. , Trueman Benjamin F. , Serracin‐Pitti Dallys , Stanton Gillian M. L. , Gagnon Graham A.
Published: August 2020

Health Canada's guideline for lead in drinking water was updated in March 2019. Two new sampling protocols were introduced—random daytime and 30‐min stagnation sampling—and the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) of lead in drinking water was decreased from 10 to 5 μg/L. This study examined the possible impacts that changes in the guideline might have on water utilities in Canada. A lead‐monitoring survey of seven drinking water distribution systems was conducted using the random daytime and 30‐min stagnation protocols. Random daytime sampling captured an estimated 45% more lead than 30‐min stagnation sampling. However, both protocols yielded samples above the new MAC: 7.5% and 5.4% of random daytime and 30‐min stagnation samples, respectively, exceeded it. These data indicate that some drinking water providers—especially those supplying systems with legacy lead plumbing—may have difficulty achieving 100% compliance with the new guideline.
Random packing material in disinfection contactors: Effects on final drinking water quality
Authors: Baker Jessica L. , De Long Susan K. , Venayagamoorthy Subhas K.
Published: August 2020

This study investigates the concern about biofilm growth on random packing material (RPM) used to enhance the hydraulic disinfection efficiency of a chlorine contactor. The inflow, outflow, and RPM were monitored for heterotrophic bacteria (via heterotrophic plate counts) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as indicators of bacteriological water quality and the presence of biofilm. The results of this study show that there was no substantial biofilm growth in a lab‐scale chlorine contactor and no substantial increase in bacterial counts for the bulk outflow over a 10‐week period. Thus, the potential for excessive biofilm growth should not be considered a barrier concerning the use of RPM to improve the hydraulic disinfection efficiency of chlorine contactors in small drinking water treatment systems.
Harnessing interdisciplinary education in biochemistry and molecular biology: Key note presentation—IUBMB/PSBMB 2019 Education Conference
Authors: Padolina William G.
Published: August 2020

Remarks from the keynote presentation 2019 IUBMB Education Conference, held in conjunction with the 46th Annual Convention of the Philippine Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. William G. Padolina, 13 November 2019.
Social distance teaching and learning: An online DNA nucleotide binding lab experience for health sciences and non‐major students
Authors: Mahaffey Angela L.
Published: August 2020

DNA analysis is a common diagnostic tool in healthcare: ranging from microbial typing (e.g. DNA strands of viral, bacterial and even fungal pathogens), oncological screen (e.g. Breast cancer detection via DNA analysis of any BRCA gene mutations), genetic amniocentesis test (a medical technique used in determining chromosomal conditions such as down syndrome in the fetus) and a host of other medical diagnostics based on the knowledge of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and the genetic information carried in this macromolecule. However, such a wide‐range of medical diagnostic mechanisms using DNA begs the question: How much does the undergraduate health sciences and/or non‐major students understand about the basic biochemical properties of DNA? Here, a virtual lab module was used (with the addition of Pre and Post Lab Questions and a Discussion Topic relating DNA to Healthcare) along with a learning management system, to help undergraduate health sciences students visualize the biochemical properties of DNA molecule, such as binding constant and Gibbs free energy of binding. This lab was adapted to offer a platform on which an Instructor can design steps for students to explore the DNA nucleotide binding module during a time in which social distance curricula is necessary.
Mobile cancer prevention and early detection outreach in Uganda: Partnering with communities toward bridging the cancer health disparities through “asset‐based community development model”
Authors: Jatho Alfred , Mugisha Noleb M. , Kafeero James , Holoya George , Okuku Fred , Niyonzima Nixon
Published: August 2020

Background

Communities in low‐income countries are characterized by limited access to cancer prevention and early detection services, even for the commonest types of cancer. Limited resources for cancer control are one of the contributors to cancer health disparities. We explored the feasibility and benefit of conducting outreaches in partnership with local communities using the “asset‐based community development (ABCD)” model.

Methods

We analyzed the quarterly Uganda cancer institute (UCI) community outreach cancer health education and screening output reported secondary data without individual identifiers from July 2016 to June 2019 to compare the UCI‐hospital‐based and community outreach cancer awareness and screening services based on the ABCD model.

Results

From July 2016 to June 2019, we worked with 107 local partners and conducted 151 outreaches. Of the total number of people who attended cancer health education sessions, 201 568 (77.9%) were reached through outreaches. Ninety‐two (95%) cancer awareness TVs and radio talk‐shows conducted were sponsored by local partners. Of the total people screened; 22 795 (63.0%) cervical, 22 014 (64.4%) breast, and 4904 (38.7%) prostate screening were reached through community outreach model. The screen‐positive rates were higher in hospital‐based screening except for Prostate screening; cervical, 8.8%, breast, 8.4%, prostate, 7.1% than in outreaches; cervical, 3.2%, breast, 2.2%, prostate, 8.2%. Of the screened positive clients who were eligible for precancer treatment like cryotherapy for treatment of precervical cancer lesions, thousands‐folds monetary value and productive life saved relative to the market cost of cancer treatment and survival rate in Uganda. When the total number of clients screened for cervical, breast, and prostate cancer are subjected to the incremental cost of specific screening, a greater portion (98.7%) of the outreach cost was absorbed through community partnership.

Conclusions

Outreaching and working in collaboration with communities as partners through asset‐based community development model are feasible and help in cost‐sharing and leverage for scarce resources to promote primary prevention and early detection of cancer. This could contribute to bridging the cancer health disparities in the target populations.
Gender differences in self‐reported family history of cancer: A review and secondary data analysis
Authors: Sieverding Monika , Arbogast Anna Lisa , Zintel Stephanie , von Wagner Christian
Published: August 2020

Background

Assessment of family history of cancer (FHC) mostly relies on self‐report. Our goal was to find out whether there is a systematic gender difference in self‐reported FHC.

Methods

We identified nine population‐based studies which provided statistics of FHC in men and women (N1 = 404 541). Furthermore, we analyzed data (N2 = 167 154) from several iterations of the US‐based Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) and the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). We calculated the proportion of positive FHC, odds ratios (OR M/F), 95% confidence intervals, and aggregated statistics. We additionally analyzed in‐depth questions about FHC from HINTS 5 Cycle 2.

Results

In the reviewed studies the odds of men reporting a FHC were lower compared with the odds of women with an average OR of 0.84 [0.71; 1.00] across all studies and an OR of 0.75 [0.70; 0.80] for the six studies from the US and Europe. The gender gap was replicated in our own analyses of HINTS and NHIS with an average OR of 0.75 [0.71; 0.79]. In HINTS 5 Cycle 2 men described themselves as less familiar with their FHC and less confident answering questions regarding FHC. They were also less likely to discuss FHC with family members.

Conclusions

Men— at least in the US and Europe—were consistently less likely to report FHC compared with women. Future research should investigate how the assessment of FHC can be improved to reduce these differences. Health care professionals should also consider the potential for biased reporting by gender when assessing FHC.
A New Phenolic Alkaloid from Halocnemum strobilaceum Endophytes: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Biofilm Inhibitory Activities
Authors: Abdel Razek Mohamed M. M. , Moussa Ashaimaa Y. , El‐Shanawany Mohamed A. , Singab Abdel Nasser B.
Published: August 2020

Human infections caused by microbial biofilm formation represent a growing major health threat. A new alkaloid, 3‐amino‐5‐(3‐hydroxybutan‐2‐yl)‐4‐methylphenol, was isolated from the corn grit culture of the endophytic isolate Penicillium citrinum‐314 associated with Halocnemum strobilaceum, a halophyte growing in the Egyptian marshes. The new alkaloid was identified by 1D, 2D‐NMR and HR‐ESI‐MS‐MS and given the trivial name halociline. The antioxidant, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities were recorded. Furthermore, another known compound, 1,3,6‐trihydroxy‐7‐methoxy‐9H‐xanthen‐9‐one, was obtained in smaller amounts and revealed a non‐microbicidal 100 % reduction in biofilm formation, with an MBIC value of 62.5 μg/mL (228 μM) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Ferm‐BAM), a FRAP value of 447.941±37.876 mM/L as well as a marked safety profile against three cancer cell lines. Through in silico molecular docking study, in the binding sites of Pseudomonas enzymes, key ligand enzyme interactions were determined to support the in vitro results.
N‐Heterocyclization in Gliotoxin Biosynthesis is Catalyzed by a Distinct Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenase
Authors: Scharf Daniel H. , Chankhamjon Pranatchareeya , Scherlach Kirstin , Dworschak Jan , Heinekamp Thorsten , Roth Martin , Brakhage Axel A. , Hertweck Christian
Published: August 2020

Gliotoxin and related epidithiodiketopiperazines (ETP) from diverse fungi feature highly functionalized hydroindole scaffolds with an array of medicinally and ecologically relevant activities. Mutation analysis, heterologous reconstitution, and biotransformation experiments revealed that a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (GliF) from the human‐pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus plays a key role in the formation of the complex heterocycle. In vitro assays using a biosynthetic precursor from a blocked mutant showed that GliF is specific to ETPs and catalyzes an unprecedented heterocyclization reaction that cannot be emulated with current synthetic methods. In silico analyses indicate that this rare biotransformation takes place in related ETP biosynthetic pathways.
Response Surface Methodology and Artificial Neural Networks for Optimization of Catalytic Esterification of Lactic Acid
Authors: Chandane Vishal S. , Rathod Ajit P. , Wasewar Kailas L. , Jadhav Prakash. G.
Published: August 2020

Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) models were employed to study the esterification of lactic acid and isoamyl alcohol. A carbon‐based solid acid catalyst prepared by wet impregnation was used in the esterification reaction. Experimental characterization revealed its potential to serve as catalyst for the esterification reaction. The experiments were performed based on the design of experiments provided by RSM and ANN models. Both models were compared on the basis of prediction efficacies and deviation from actual data. The prediction data results demonstrated that the ANN model gave better prediction efficiency and lower prediction deviation than the RSM model. The ANN model provided a higher coefficient of determination and lower error values than the RSM model. Moreover, the catalyst exhibited a good stability and recyclability up to four reaction cycles.
Intensification of Mass Transfer in the Extraction Process with a Nanofluid Prepared in a Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Mitar Anamarija , Prlić Kardum Jasna
Published: August 2020

The phytotoxic residues after olive oil production and residue leaves after pruning contain valuable bioactive compounds. A natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) and an ethanol‐water mixture were used for polyphenol extraction from olive pomace and leaves. Type of solvent, extraction temperature, and particle size of the leaves were optimized. NADES demonstrated better efficiency in the extraction process than conventional solvents; with higher temperature and smaller fraction of olive leaves, a higher yield of polyphenols was obtained from leaves. Extraction with a nanofluid as solvent was carried out. A stable nanofluid was prepared from NADES by adding Al2O3 nanoparticles. A higher yield was obtained with nanofluid from leaves, while an improvement of polyphenol extraction was achieved after the removal of oil from olive pomace.
Mixture analysis using non‐negative elastic net for Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Zeng Hui‐Tao , Hou Ming‐Hui , Ni Yi‐Ping , Fang Zhi , Fan Xia‐Qiong , Lu Hong‐Mei , Zhang Zhi‐Min
Published: August 2020

Raman spectrum is wealth of structural information, which can be used as molecular fingerprint to identify compounds. There are relations between the intensities of Raman peaks and the concentrations of compound, and they can be used to estimate relative concentrations of the compounds in mixture. However, it is still challenging to interpret the Raman spectrum of mixture. The non‐negative lasso (NN‐LASSO) has been used to solve this problem, but it failed to identify highly correlated compounds. The quadratic term of non‐negative elastic net (NN‐EN) can ensure the stability of the fitted model. Therefore, a novel mixture analysis method was developed based on NN‐EN in this study. It has been applied to analyze the simulated, liquid, powder, tablet, and quantitative mixture datasets. Results showed that NN‐EN can identify the compounds in mixture with high accuracy and estimate their relative concentrations with small deviation. Furthermore, NN‐EN was more stable than NN‐LASSO when the spectra of some compounds are highly correlated. It is a promising approach for analyzing Raman spectra of mixtures.
A Giant [8+12] Boronic Ester Cage with 48 Terminal Alkene Units in the Periphery for Postsynthetic Alkene Metathesis
Authors: Hähsler Martin , Mastalerz Michael
Published: August 2020

Dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) is a powerful synthetic tool to construct large defined molecules in one step from rather simple precursors. The advantage of the intrinsic dynamics of the applied reversible reaction steps is a self‐correction under the chosen conditions, to achieve high yields of the target compound. To date, only a few examples are known, in which DCC was used to build up a molecular defined but larger product that was chemically transferred to a more stable congener in a second (irreversible) step. Here, we present a nanometer‐sized [8+12] boronic ester cage containing 48 peripheral terminal alkene units which allows to put a hydrocarbon exoskeleton around the cage via alkene metathesis.
Anorganische Namensreaktionen
Authors: Hasenpusch Wolfgang
Published: August 2020

Naturwissenschaftler und Techniker dürfen neben ganzen Büchern mit organischen Namensreaktionen nicht verkennen, dass auch in der anorganischen und physikalischen Chemie eine Reihe von Namensreaktionen bekannt geworden ist. Wenig verwunderlich scheint, dass die mit Persönlichkeiten bedachten Verfahren, Methoden, Regeln, Verbindungen und anderes mehr schon älteren Datums sind. Denn neben den mnemotechnischen Vorteilen der Verknüpfung mit Entdecker‐ und Entwickler‐Namen haben sie auch einen gewissen Zeitraum der Bewährung zu durchlaufen.

Auch wird es immer seltener, dass einzelne Forscher ihre Entdeckungen und Erfindungen in Unternehmen und Instituten alleine publizieren und patentrechtlich anmelden dürfen, denn zum einen sind doch entscheidende Untersuchungen mit der Hilfe anderer Abteilungen notwendig, zum anderen laufen viele Forschungs‐ und Entwicklungsprojekte von Anfang an in Teams ab.
Design, Synthesis, and in vitro Evaluation of P2X7 Antagonists
Authors: T. Pournara Dimitra , Durner Anna , Kritsi Eftichia , Papakostas Alexios , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis , Nicke Annette , Koufaki Maria
Published: August 2020

The P2X7 receptor is a promising target for the treatment of various diseases due to its significant role in inflammation and immune cell signaling. This work describes the design, synthesis, and in vitro evaluation of a series of novel derivatives bearing diverse scaffolds as potent P2X7 antagonists. Our approach was based on structural modifications of reported (adamantan‐1‐yl)methylbenzamides able to inhibit the receptor activation. The adamantane moieties and the amide bond were replaced, and the replacements were evaluated by a ligand‐based pharmacophore model. The antagonistic potency of the synthesized analogues was assessed by two‐electrode voltage clamp experiments, using Xenopus laevis oocytes that express the human P2X7 receptor. SAR studies suggested that the replacement of the adamantane ring by an aryl‐cyclohexyl moiety afforded the most potent antagonists against the activation of the P2X7 cation channel, with analogue 2‐chloro‐N‐[1‐(3‐(nitrooxymethyl)phenyl)cyclohexyl)methyl]benzamide (56) exhibiting the best potency with an IC50 value of 0.39 μM.
A natural endocast of an early Miocene odontocete and its implications in cetacean brain evolution
Authors: Bisconti Michelangelo , Damarco Piero , Tartarelli Giandonato , Pavia Marco , Carnevale Giorgio
Published: August 2020

The natural endocast Museo di Geologia e Paleontologia of the Università degli Studi di Torino (MGPT)‐PU 13873 is described and analyzed in order to interpret its taxonomic affinities and its potential significance on our understanding of cetacean brain evolution. The endocast is from the early Miocene of Piedmont (between ca. 19 and 16 million years ago), Northwestern Italy, and shows a number of plesiomorphic characters. These include: scarcely rounded cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum exposed in dorsal view with little superimposition by the cerebral hemispheres, short temporal lobe, and long sylvian fissure. The distance between the hypophysis and the rostral pons is particularly high, as it was determined by the calculus of the hypothalamus quotient, suggesting that the development of a deep interpeduncular fossa was not as advanced as in living odontocetes. The encephalization quotient (EQ) of MGPT‐PU 13873 is ~1.81; therefore, this specimen shows an EQ in line with other fossil whales of the same geological age (early Miocene). Comparative analysis shows that there is a critical lack of data from the late Miocene and Pliocene that prevents us to fully understand the recent evolution of the EQ diversity in whales. Moreover, the past diversity of brain size and shape in mysticetes is virtually unknown. All these observations point to the need of additional efforts to uncover evolutionary patterns and processes on cetacean brain evolution.
Polymorphic Metastability in Colloidal Semiconductor Nanocrystals
Authors: Tappan Bryce A. , Brutchey Richard L.
Published: August 2020

Metastable polymorphs of inorganic solids often possess material properties not present in the corresponding thermodynamic polymorphs, making them targets for the development of new functional materials. In contrast with isolating metastable bulk materials, syntheses of metastable polymorphs on the nanoscale are aided by fast non‐equilibrium reaction kinetics and the favorable thermodynamic influence of surface energies, giving rise to greater ease of access to metastable high‐temperature polymorphs and, in some cases, new polymorphs that do not exist in the bulk. The syntheses of metastable semiconductor nanocrystals are of interest for their potentially unique optoelectronic and physicochemical properties. However, in many material systems, synthesizing nanocrystalline products away from thermodynamic equilibrium in a predictable manner remains an outstanding challenge. This review outlines direct synthetic methodologies that have been developed to enable control over the nucleation and growth of metastable polymorphs of semiconductor nanocrystals by tailoring reaction conditions, precursor kinetics, ligand and surface effects, and other synthetic levers. The case studies reviewed herein expound on the direct syntheses of metastable ZnSe, Cu2SnSe3, CuInSe2, Ag2Se, and AgInSe2 nanocrystals, and although there remain numerous examples of metastable nanocrystal syntheses outside of these metal chalcogenide systems, the concepts discussed are of general utility to the field of metastable nanocrystal syntheses as a whole. Explicit examples in which new functional properties are afforded by metastable polymorphs of the aforementioned material systems are presented within the context of applications for solar cells, photonics, and optical sensing. Finally, the factors that affect the kinetic persistence of metastable nanocrystalline polymorphs are discussed at length for these material systems.
Robustness of Liouville Measure under a Family of Stable Diffusions
Authors: Ledrappier François , Shu Lin
Published: August 2020

Consider a C∞ closed connected Riemannian manifold (M, g) with negative sectional curvature. The unit tangent bundle SM is foliated by the (weak) stable foliation of the geodesic flow. Let Δs be the leafwise Laplacian for and let X be the geodesic spray, i.e., the vector field that generates the geodesic flow. For each ρ, the operator generates a diffusion for . We show that, as ρ →  − ∞, the unique stationary probability measure for the leafwise diffusion of converge to the normalized Liouville measure on SM. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Phenylglyoxylic Acid: An Efficient Initiator for the Photochemical Hydrogen Atom Transfer C−H Functionalization of Heterocycles
Authors: Papadopoulos Giorgos N. , Kokotou Maroula G. , Spiliopoulou Nikoleta , Nikitas Nikolaos F. , Voutyritsa Errika , Tzaras Dimitrios I. , Kaplaneris Nikolaos , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: August 2020

C−H functionalization at the α‐position of heterocycles has become a rapidly growing area of research. Herein, a cheap and efficient photochemical method was developed for the C−H functionalization of heterocycles. Phenylglyoxylic acid (PhCOCOOH) could behave as an alternative to metal‐based catalysts and organic dyes and provided a very general and wide array of photochemical C−H alkylation, alkenylation, and alkynylation, as well as C−N bond forming reaction methodologies. This novel, mild, and metal‐free protocol was successfully employed in the functionalization of a wide range of C−H bonds, utilizing not only O‐ or N‐heterocycles, but also the less studied S‐heterocycles.
Bit rate improvement of spatially seamless local communication system using signal multiplexing technique
Authors: Akagawa Tetsuro , Arai Yoshikazu , Imai Shintaro , Inomata Toshimitsu
Published: August 2020

In recent years, application of multiple robot system for a large scale system, such as a smart factory, is expected. A system consisting of heterogeneous robots can select the function by switching a combination of the robots according to a purpose. Therefore, the system is more versatile than a single robot on which multiple functions are installed. When the system is controlled by distributed management, it is an essential technique that the robots communicate with each other for mutual understanding to achieve complex task. We have developed spatially seamless local communication system in order to exchange information between the robots without convergences. This system ensures spatially seamless communicable area towards robot's surroundings by rotating a transmitter and a receiver. However, a bit rate of communication using the system is insufficient. Although the system has redundant frame structure to detect interference between signals from different transmitters, it causes decrease of the bit rate. In this paper, we aim to improve the bit rate by reducing frame length of transmission pulse while retaining the interference detection function.
Collapse prognosis of a long‐span cable‐stayed bridge based on shake table test and nonlinear model updating
Authors: Lin Kaiqi , Xu You‐Lin , Lu Xinzheng , Guan Zhongguo , Li Jianzhong
Published: August 2020

The collapse of long‐span cable‐stayed bridges under strong earthquakes will not only result in severe casualties and loss of property but also significantly delay the rehabilitation of the affected area. It is therefore essential to study the failure progress and potential collapse mechanisms of these bridges under strong earthquakes for assisting their inspection and maintenance and helping them survive an earthquake. Collapse simulations in existing studies are commonly conducted with design‐document‐based finite element (FE) models, which usually neglect the actual damage state of the bridges. The influences of modelling uncertainties on the simulated responses cannot be addressed. This study proposes a nonlinear FE model updating‐based collapse prognosis method for long‐span cable‐stayed bridges, which includes (1) a correlated‐updating‐parameter‐based nonlinear FE model updating algorithm, (2) a restarted time history analysis‐based seismic response prediction method and (3) an elemental deactivation‐based collapse simulation algorithm. The shake table test of a scaled Sutong cable‐stayed bridge in China is adopted to illustrate the proposed earthquake‐induced collapse prognosis method. A refined FE model of the bridge is first established and nonlinearly updated using the measurement data. The collapse prognosis of the bridge under a subsequent strong ground motion is then performed based on the updated model. The predicted structural responses and final failure mechanisms are compared with the measured responses and experimental observations with good agreement, indicating that the proposed method is feasible and accurate for evaluating the seismic performance and failure mechanisms of long‐span cable‐stayed bridges.
An automated procedure to calculate the morphological parameters of superimposed rhythmic bedforms
Authors: Wang Li , Yu Qian , Zhang Yongzhan , Flemming Burghard W. , Wang Yunwei , Gao Shu
Published: August 2020

Subaqueous dunes are often observed to be superimposed on larger dunes, sand bars and tidal ridges, while smaller dunes may also be found superimposed on larger dunes. In this study an automated method has been developed by which the geometry of superimposed rhythmic bedforms can be analysed. The method combines two‐dimensional (2D) Fourier analysis, wavelet transform, zero‐crossing analysis and a variety of filters. Instead of applying conventional manual procedures, the wavelength of interest can be automatically determined by a series of 2D Fourier analyses, which is a critical first step for automated analysis of dune geometries. Based on such efficient data preprocessing, the method can accurately determine dune orientation, separate target bedform profiles, and identify crests and troughs. With the input of bathymetry, the dominant regional dune orientation can be determined together with the geometric parameters of individual dunes (wavelength, height, leeside angles) and their spatial distribution. The method was applied to both synthetic and observed bathymetries of a tidal ridge off the Jiangsu coast, China, and a sand bank in the Dover Strait, UK. The results show that almost all dunes in the domain were detected and their geometric parameters accurately calculated, especially in areas of bedform superimposition. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibitory effect of four types of tea on the in vitro digestion of starch
Authors: Gutierrez Alyssa , Feng Jiannan , Tan Libo , Kong Lingyan
Published: August 2020

Phenolic compounds have been shown to decrease the rate of starch hydrolysis by inhibiting digestive enzymes for starch. Tea, rich in phenolic compounds, has been widely reported for its beneficial health effects. This study explored the inhibitory abilities of four types of tea, that is, green tea (GT), oolong tea (OT), black tea (BT), and white tea (WT), on the in vitro enzymatic digestion of potato starch (PS) and high‐amylose maize starch (HAMS), using two in vitro digestion methods. All teas significantly inhibited the digestion of both starches, with a few exceptions at some time points. The resistant starch content was increased by all four teas in HAMS, but only by BT and WT in PS. The total phenolic contents in the teas could not predict the inhibitory ability of the teas, possibly due to the structural diversity of phenolic compounds and the presence of other compounds that could also alter enzymatic activity. Our results suggested that tea, regardless of its type, can slow down the enzymatic digestion of starch and therefore imply a potential benefit for controlling postprandial hyperglycemia.
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐3 regulates astroglial glutamate transporter‐1 expression via mTOR activation in reactive astrocytes following pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus
Authors: Jeong Kyoung Hoon , Cho Kyung‐Ok , Lee Mun‐Yong , Kim Seong Yun , Kim Won‐Joo
Published: August 2020

Recent evidence has shown that the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system plays a crucial role in several neuropathological processes. We previously reported an upregulation of VEGF‐C and its receptor, VEGFR‐3, in reactive astrocytes after the onset of status epilepticus (SE). However, it remains unknown, which molecules act as downstream signals following VEGFR‐3 upregulation, and are involved in reactive astrogliosis after SE. Therefore, we investigated whether VEGFR‐3 upregulation within reactive astrocytes is associated with the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, which we confirmed by assaying for the phosphorylated form of S6 protein (pS6), and whether VEGFR‐3‐mediated mTOR activation induces astroglial glutamate transporter‐1 (GLT‐1) expression in the hippocampus after pilocarpine‐induced SE. We found that spatiotemporal expression of pS6 was consistent with VEGFR‐3 expression in the hippocampus after SE, and that both pS6 and VEGFR‐3 were highly expressed in SE‐induced reactive astrocytes. Treatment with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin decreased astroglial VEGFR‐3 expression and GLT‐1 expression after SE. Treatment with a selective inhibitor for VEGFR‐3 attenuated astroglial pS6 expression as well as suppressed GLT‐1 expression and astroglial reactivity in the hippocampus after SE. These findings demonstrate that VEGFR‐3‐mediated mTOR activation could contribute to the regulation of GLT‐1 expression in reactive astrocytes during the subacute phase of epilepsy. In conclusion, the present study suggests that VEGFR‐3 upregulation in reactive astrocytes may play a role in preventing hyperexcitability induced by continued seizure activity.
Endoscopic transoral approach for resection of retrostyloid parapharyngeal space tumors: Retrospective analysis of 16 patients
Authors: Li Lifeng , London Nyall R. , Gao Yanyong , Carrau Ricardo L. , Chen Xiaohong
Published: August 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of the endoscopic transoral approach for resection of retrostyloid benign tumors.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 16 patients with retrostyloid parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors resected via an endoscopic transoral approach. After separation and control of the internal carotid artery (ICA), tumors in the retrostyloid PPS were then removed under the guidance of angled endoscope (45°).

Results

All 16 patients with retrostyloid PPS tumors were successfully removed via an endoscopic transoral approach. There were 15 schwannomas and 1 paraganglioma. Two tumors were removed en bloc, and the other 14 tumors were removed by piecemeal. In five patients, the tumor extended into the jugular foramen, and was completely removed via the transoral corridor, without cerebrospinal fluid leak. No ICA injury was encountered in any of the 16 patients.

Conclusion

The endoscopic transoral approach is suitable for the resection of retrostyloid PPS tumors and is associated with low morbidity.
Metastatic melanoma patient outcomes since introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors in England between 2014 and 2018
Authors: Board Ruth , Smittenaar Rebecca , Lawton Sarah , Liu Hanhua , Juwa Bukky , Chao David , Corrie Pippa
Published: August 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) have radically changed outcomes for patients diagnosed with metastatic melanoma globally in the last 10 years, based on evidence of overall survival (OS) benefits generated from international randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Since RCTs do not always reflect real‐world prescribing, we interrogated established national databases to track prescribing of CPIs approved for first line treatment of metastatic melanoma patients in England since 2014 and determined patient outcomes associated with OS, as well as treatment‐related toxicity. Between April 2014 and March 2018, 5465 melanoma patients were diagnosed and treated with systemic anticancer therapy (SACT), 2322 of which received first‐line CPIs. There was good 3‐year OS concordance with RCT outcomes for ipilimumab (32%), ipinivo (56%) and nivolumab (51%), but OS was lower than expected for pembrolizumab (40%). Comparing patients prescribed ipinivo with those prescribed pembrolizumab, ipinivo‐treated patients were younger (88% vs 49% patients <70 years, P < .001) and fitter (60% vs 38% patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG] performance status 0, P < .0001). Emergency hospital admission rates from the earliest and last treatment dates were higher for patients prescribed ipinivo (37% and 55%) compared to those prescribed pembrolizumab (17% and 29%). The 30‐day mortality rates favoured ipinivo patients (3.8% ipinivo, 9.1% pembrolizumab, P < .0001) and likely reflected marked differences in median treatment durations: 63 (range 7‐440) days for ipinivo and 192 (range 5‐943) days for pembrolizumab. The dominant treatment‐related condition linked to hospital admission was colitis, recorded for 25% of patients prescribed ipinivo compared to 4% of patients prescribed pembrolizumab. Our population data has demonstrated that RCT outcomes can be achieved in routine care settings with careful patient selection.
Nonclinical safety testing of imaging agents, contrast agents and radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Baldrick Paul
Published: August 2020

Drug development includes imaging agents, contrast agents and radiopharmaceuticals; these materials differ from therapeutic drugs in that they are largely used to diagnose and/or monitor diseases and not treat them. Consequently, nonclinical safety testing needs are different. An examination of testing packages supporting clinical entry and/or marketing of these materials has shown a common approach to some study types (eg, imaging, biodistribution and toxicity testing). Recent regulatory guidelines to support development are the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s “Guidance for Industry Microdose Radiopharmaceutical Diagnostic Drugs: Nonclinical Study Recommendations” and the European Medicines Agency (EMA)’s “Guideline on the Non‐Clinical Requirements for Radiopharmaceuticals” (currently draft). It is hoped that these documents will allow developers to only perform nonclinical studies that are necessary to support functionality, follow distribution of the material and examine general safety/toxicity. However, as they are mainly focused on radiopharmaceuticals, companies are likely to apply knowledge of established testing packages to other new imaging agents and/or follow principles given in older regulatory guidelines, namely FDA’s “Guidance for Industry Developing Medical Imaging Drug and Biological Products Part I Conducting Safety Assessments”. Thus, in some cases, the need for regulatory agency interaction is still vital to avoid development surprises and delays due to an incomplete or badly performed testing package.
Short‐ and Long‐Term Reciprocal Bone‐Muscle Relationships in the Upper and Lower Extremity of Afro‐Caribbean Men by DXA: A Longitudinal Analysis of the Tobago Bone Health Study
Authors: Wong Andy KO , Pokhoy Anthony , Chandrakumar Abinaa , Cvejkus Ryan K , Zmuda Joseph M
Published: August 2020

Little is known about the time course of muscle–bone effects and whether a reciprocal clinical effect of bone on muscle is present. We hypothesized that lean mass (LM) measures at the arms and legs have a stronger relationship with BMD measured within the same region than the reciprocal effect. The Tobago Bone Health Study was used to address this hypothesis, examining body composition data from total body DXA scans obtained at 0, 48‐, and 120‐month visits. A longitudinal analysis of LM, LM/height2 (LMI), and LM/BMI was conducted at the upper and lower extremities separately, in relation to BMD within the corresponding region. A cross‐lagged panel model was used to study pathways from 0 to 120 months for muscle–bone and bone–muscle effects within the same visit, and across each lagged period. Models accounted for age, height, weight, race, arthritis, prior nontraumatic fracture after age 40, number of units of alcohol consumed per week, current smoking, diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, amount of walking in the last week, grip strength, and hospitalizations. Significant models demonstrating parsimony, and meeting absolute and relative fit criteria were retained. Among 1286 Afro‐Caribbean men (mean age: 53 ± 9 years, BMI: 27.43 ± 4.23 kg/m2) with data available for all visits, LM, LMI, and LM/BMI had modest contemporaneous relationships with BMD, which dissipated with lagged time. The size of these effects was stronger at the legs than at the arms. These lagged effects were primarily mediated through indirect same time‐point muscle–bone relations rather than a true directly lagged effect. Bone density showed only a small effect on LM arm measures across lagged time, but this was impossible to tease‐out from same time‐point relations. These results suggest muscle–bone relationships are not long‐lasting at least beyond 48 months. Efforts to maintain muscle and bone strength should focus on shorter‐term interventions. More studies are needed with serial bone–muscle imaging over shorter periods. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Risedronate to Prevent Bone Loss After Sleeve Gastrectomy: Study Design and Feasibility Report of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Swafford Ashlyn A , Ard Jamy D , Beavers Daniel P , Gearren Peri C , Fernandez Adolfo Z , Ford Sherri A , Greene Katelyn A , Kammire Daniel E , Nesbit Beverly A , Reed Kylie K , Weaver Ashley A , Beavers Kristen M
Published: August 2020

Mounting evidence implicates bariatric surgery as a cause of increased skeletal fragility and fracture risk. Bisphosphonate therapy reduces osteoporotic fracture risk and may be effective in minimizing bone loss associated with bariatric surgery. The main objective of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT; Clinical Trial No. NCT03411902) was to determine the feasibility of recruiting, treating, and following 24 older patients who had undergone sleeve gastrectomy in a 6 month RCT examining the efficacy of 150‐mg once‐monthly risedronate (versus placebo) in the prevention of surgical weight‐loss–associated bone loss. Feasibility was defined as: (i) >30% recruitment yield, (ii) >80% retention, (iii) >80% pills taken, (iv) <20% adverse events (AEs), and (v) >80% participant satisfaction. Study recruitment occurred over 17 months. Seventy participants were referred, with 24 randomized (34% yield) to risedronate (n = 11) or placebo (n = 13). Average age was 56 ± 7 years, 83% were female (63% postmenopausal), and 21% were black. The risedronate group had a higher baseline BMI than the placebo group (48.1 ± 7.2 versus 41.9 ± 3.8 kg/m2). The 10‐year fracture risk was low (6.0% major osteoporotic fracture, 0.4% hip fracture); however, three individuals (12.5%, all risedronate group) were osteopenic at baseline. Twenty‐one participants returned for 6‐month follow‐up testing (88% retention) with all (n = 3) loss to follow‐up occurring in the risedronate group. Average number of pills taken among completers was 5.9 ± 0.4 and 6.0 ± 0.0 in the risedronate and placebo groups, respectively (p = 0.21), with active participants taking >80% of allotted pills. Five AEs (3.7% AE rate) were reported; one definitely related, four not related, and none serious. All participants reported high satisfaction with participation in the study. Use of bisphosphonates as a novel therapeutic to preserve bone density in patients who had undergone a sleeve gastrectomy appears feasible and well‐tolerated. Knowledge gained from this pilot RCT will be used to inform the design of an appropriately powered trial.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT03411902. Weight Loss With Risedronate for Bone Health. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.