bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of unsymmetrical bis‐ureamacrocyclic host for neutral molecule and chloride‐ion binding
Authors: Paul Biprajit , Mukherjee Ayan , Bhuyan Deepak , Guha Samit
Published: June 2021

Construction of synthetic macrocyclic host that can bind with neutral molecules and anions has potential applications in supramolecular chemistry. Herein, we have designed and synthesized blue light emitting an unsymmetrical neutral bis‐urea macrocyclic host. This macrocycle can bind with neutral DMF molecule (1:1) as well as Cl−ion (1:1) through noncovalent interactions. X‐Ray crystal structure,1H NMR titrations with Job's Plot, HRMS with isotropic distribution pattern, FT‐IR, and density functional theory analysis revealed the binding of bis‐urea macrocyclic host with the guest molecule.
Facile synthesis and antimicrobial evaluations of some novel pyrazolo[3,4‐b]selenolo[3,2‐e]pyrazines and their related heterocycles
Authors: Abd ul‐Malik Mokhtar A. , Kamal El‐Dean Adel M. , Radwan Shaban M. , Zaki Remon M.
Published: June 2021

A new series of pyrazolopyrazinoselenolotriazolopyrimidines was synthesized by a facile method based on condensation of 5‐amino‐3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazolo[3,4‐b]selenolo[3,2‐e]pyrazine‐6‐carbonitrile (3) with triethyl orthoformate followed by intramolecular cyclization with hydrazine to afford 7‐amino‐8‐imino‐3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1,8‐dihydro‐7H‐pyrazolo[3″,4″:5′,6′]pyrazino[2′,3′:4,5] selenolo[3,2‐d]pyrimidine (5). The latter compound was utilized as a multipurpose precursor for the construction of other new triazoles fused to the pyrazolopyrazino‐ selenolopyrimidine moiety. Alternatively, acetylation and chloro‐acetylation of compound 3 using acetic anhydride and chloroacetyl chloride yielded the acetyl amino 11 and chloroacetamido 12 derivatives, respectively. Compound 12 underwent nucleophilic substitution upon reaction with morpholine to provide the morpholinyl acetamide 13. Furthermore, the pyrazolopyridoselenolopyrazine ring system 14 was synthesized by the reaction of the o‐amino‐carbonitrile 3 with malononitrile. Assignment of the chemical structures for the new compounds was confirmed depending on elemental and spectral techniques. On the other hand, most of the synthesized compounds revealed promising results against various bacterial and fungal strains.
The poor receive less: Remittance behaviour of female migrants in Myanmar
Authors: Zhai Yalei , Kono Hisaki
Published: June 2021

The effectiveness of remittances in poverty reduction depends on the remittance distribution in low‐income households. Existing studies have found that low‐income households received low remittances and inferred that the primary motive for remittances is securing future inheritance. We investigate the remittance decisions of unmarried female migrants in Myanmar who have no inheritance rights and find that migrants from low‐income households remit less. A decomposition analysis suggests that the marriage prospects provided by parents explain around 40% of this correlation. The fact that parents of poor households fail to arrange matches from better‐off families for their daughters has pushed young female migrants to spend more on partner‐searching activities instead of sending remittances to their families.
The Role of Whole‐Body MRI in Pediatric Musculoskeletal Oncology: Current Concepts and Clinical Applications
Authors: Guimarães Júlio Brandão , da Cruz Isabela Azevedo Nicodemos , Ahlawat Shivani , Ormond Filho Alípio Gomes , Nico Marcelo Astolfi Caetano , Lederman Henrique Manoel , Fayad Laura Marie
Published: June 2021

Whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (WB‐MRI) has gained importance in the field of musculoskeletal oncology over the last decades, consisting in a one‐stop imaging method that allows a wide coverage assessment of both bone and soft tissue involvement. WB‐MRI is valuable for diagnosis, staging, and follow‐up in many oncologic diseases and is especially advantageous for the pediatric population since it avoids redundant examinations and exposure to ionizing radiation in patients who often undergo long‐term surveillance. Its clinical application has been studied in many pediatric neoplasms, such as cancer predisposition syndromes, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, lymphoma, sarcomas, and neuroblastoma. The addition of diffusion‐weighted sequences allows functional evaluation of neoplastic lesions, which is helpful in the assessment of viable tumor and response to treatment after neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy. WB‐MRI is an excellent alternative to fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography in oncologic children, with comparable accuracy and the convenience of being radiation‐free, fast to perform, and available at a similar cost. The development of new techniques and protocols makes WB‐MRI increasingly faster, safer, and more accessible, and it is important for referring physicians and radiologists to recognize the role of this imaging method in pediatric oncology.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Decreasing Spatial Variability of Individual Watershed Areas by Revascularization Therapy in Patients With High‐Grade Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Schmitzer Lena , Sollmann Nico , Kufer Jan , Kallmayer Michael , Eckstein Hans‐Henning , Zimmer Claus , Preibisch Christine , Kaczmarz Stephan , Göttler Jens
Published: June 2021

Background

Carotid artery stenosis can impair cerebral hemodynamics especially within watershed areas (WSAs) between vascular territories. WSAs can shift because of collateral flow, which may be an indicator for increased hemodynamic implications and hence higher risk for ischemic stroke. However, whether revascularization treatment can reverse the spatial displacement of individual WSAs (iWSAs) and impaired hemodynamics remains unknown.

Hypothesis

That iWSAs spatially normalize because of hemodynamic improvement resulting from revascularization treatment.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Sixteen patients with unilateral, high‐grade carotid artery stenosis confirmed by duplex ultrasonography and 17 healthy controls.

Field strength/Sequences

A 3 T‐magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo (MPRAGE), gradient‐echo echo planar dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC), and fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequences. Additionally, contrast‐enhanced 3D gradient echo magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and diffusion‐tensor imaging (DTI) spin‐echo echo planar imaging were performed.

Assessment

iWSAs were delineated by a recently proposed procedure based on time‐to‐peak maps from DSC perfusion MRI, which were also used to evaluate perfusion delay. We spatially compared iWSAs and perfusion delay before and after treatment (endarterectomy or stenting). Additionally, the Circle of Willis collateralization status was evaluated, and basic cognitive testing was conducted.

Statistical Tests

Statistical tests included two‐sample t‐tests and Chi‐squared tests. A P value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

After revascularization, patients showed a significant spatial shift of iWSAs and significantly reduced perfusion delay ipsilateral to the stenosis. Spatial shift of iWSA (P = 0.007) and cognitive improvement (P = 0.013) were more pronounced in patients with poor pre‐existing collateralization.

Controls demonstrated stable spatial extent of iWSAs (P = 0.437) and symmetric perfusion delays between hemispheres over time (P = 0.773).

Data Conclusion

These results demonstrate the normalization of iWSA and impaired hemodynamics after revascularization in patients with high‐grade carotid artery stenosis.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Imaging modalities for endoleak surveillance
Authors: Williams Aman Berry , Williams Zoheb Berry
Published: June 2021

As the global population ages, the issue of abdominal aortic aneurysm continues to grow. With the evolution of new devices and refined operative technique, aneurysm treatment via endovascular aortic repair is becoming increasingly favourable. This, however, is not without drawbacks, where regular surveillance is paramount to long‐term success and detection of post‐procedure complications. Of these complications, endoleak is the most notable and poses the greatest risk of potential future aortic rupture. The purpose of this review paper is to discuss the armada of imaging modalities used in the detection and evaluation of endoleak and their varying usefulness. Plain abdominal X‐ray is a cost‐effective tool in detecting gross graft abnormalities such as stent migration or deformity (kinking or fracture). Though it may raise suspicion for endoleak, X‐ray does not allow accurate classification of endoleak type when used alone. Duplex ultrasonography quantifies both aortic anatomy and real time flow dynamics. Most screening programmes are conducted using two‐dimensional ultrasound. Unfortunately, observer and equipment variability may lead to surveillance discrepancies—but reduced when utilising a dedicated vascular sonography laboratory. Contrast enhanced ultrasonography is a promising alternative to computed tomography, though still is emerging. Computed tomography angiography certainly has disadvantages (ionising radiation, contrast‐nephropathy, limited differentiation of endoleak type)—however, it provides near‐real surgical dimensions and highlights graft complications and concomitant disease (such as neighbouring infection). With widespread availability and short scan time, it certainly remains valuable in surveillance. Magnetic resonance angiography has a similar sensitivity to computed tomography (minus the radiation), however is plagued by movement and metal artefact. Other novel modalities in endoleak surveillance include four‐dimensional ultrasound, multiplanar intra‐operative probes, nuclear medicine and wall stress analysis.
Spatial concentration and distribution of phase singularities in human atrial fibrillation: Insights for the AF mechanism
Authors: Schopp Madeline , Dharmaprani Dhani , Kuklik Pawel , Quah Jing , Lahiri Anandaroop , Tiver Kathryn , Meyer Christian , Willems Stephan , McGavigan Andrew D. , Ganesan Anand N.
Published: June 2021

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by the repetitive regeneration of unstable rotational events, the pivot of which are known as phase singularities (PSs). The spatial concentration and distribution of PSs have not been systematically investigated using quantitative statistical approaches.

Objectives

We utilized a geospatial statistical approach to determine the presence of local spatial concentration and global clustering of PSs in biatrial human AF recordings.

Methods

64‐electrode conventional basket (~5 min, n = 18 patients, persistent AF) recordings were studied. Phase maps were produced using a Hilbert‐transform based approach. PSs were characterized spatially using the following approaches: (i) local “hotspots” of high phase singularity (PS) concentration using Getis‐Ord Gi* (Z ≥ 1.96,P ≤ .05) and (ii) global spatial clustering using Moran'sI(inverse distance matrix).

Results

Episodes of AF were analyzed from basket catheter recordings (H: 41 epochs, 120 000 s, n = 18 patients). The Getis‐Ord Gi* statistic showed local PS hotspots in 12/41 basket recordings. As a metric of spatial clustering, Moran'sIshowed an overall mean of 0.033 (95% CI: 0.0003‐0.065), consistent with the notion of complete spatial randomness.

Conclusion

Using a systematic, quantitative geospatial statistical approach, evidence for the existence of spatial concentrations (“hotspots”) of PSs were detectable in human AF, along with evidence of spatial clustering. Geospatial statistical approaches offer a new approach to map and ablate PS clusters using substrate‐based approaches.
Innovative biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using yeast glucan nanopolymer and their potentiality as antibacterial composite
Authors: Elnagar Sara E. , Tayel Ahmed A. , Elguindy Nihal M. , Al‐saggaf Mohammed S. , Moussa Shaaban H.
Published: June 2021

Nanometals (NM) frequently possess potent antimicrobial potentials to combat various pathogens, but their elevated biotoxicity limits their direct applications. The biosynthesis of NM and their capping/conjugation with natural biopolymers can effectually enhance NM stability and diminish such toxicity. Yeast β‐glucan (βG), from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, was extracted and transformed to nanoparticles (NPs) using alkali/acid facile protocol. The βG NPs were innovatively employed for direct biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) without extra chemical processes. The physicochemical assessments (Fourier‐transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy) validated NPs formation, interaction, and interior capping of Ag NPs in βG NPs. The synthesized βG NPs, Ag NPs, and βG–Ag NPs composite were negatively charged and had minute particle sizes with mean diameters of 58.65, 6.72, and 63.88 nm, respectively. The NPs (plain Ag NPs and composited βG–Ag NPs) exhibited potent comparable bactericidal actions, opposing Gram+ (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram‒ (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Scanning micrographs, of treated S. aureus and S. Typhimurium with βG–Ag NPs, elucidated the powerful bactericidal actions of nanocomposite for destructing pathogens' cells. The inventive Ag NPs biosynthesis with βG NPs and the combined βG–Ag NPs nanocomposites could be impressively recommended as powerful antibacterial candidates with minor potential toxicity.
Atmospheric river lifecycle characteristics shaped by synoptic conditions at genesis
Authors: Kim Sol , Chiang John C. H.
Published: June 2021

The range of synoptic patterns that North Pacific landfalling atmospheric rivers form under are objectively identified using genesis day 500 hPa geopotential height anomalies in a self‐organizing map (SOM). The SOM arranges the synoptic patterns to differentiate between two groups of climate modes—the first group with ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation), PDO (Pacific Decadal Oscillation), PNA (Pacific North American) and NP (North Pacific index) and the second group with AO (Arctic Oscillation), EPO (East Pacific Oscillation), and WPO (West Pacific Oscillation). These two groups have their positive and negative modes organized in opposite corners of the SOM. The ARs produced in each of the synoptic patterns have distinct lifecycle characteristics (such as genesis and landfall location, duration, velocity, meridional/zonal movement) and precipitation impacts (magnitude and spatial distribution). The conditions that favour AR trajectories closer to the tropics tend to produce higher amounts of precipitation. The large‐scale circulation associated with AR genesis shows a close relationship between the genesis location and the location and intensity of the upper‐level jet in the west/central pacific as well as anomalous, low‐level southwesterly winds in the east pacific.
Mooring Mobilities, Fixing Flows: Towards a Global Urban History of Port Cities in the Age of Steam
Authors: Heerten Lasse
Published: June 2021

This article critically surveys the current historiography of port cities, which have recently attracted a lot of interest, particularly from global historians of the 19th and early 20th century. The article contextualizes this body of scholarship within larger recent and older trends in the discipline. Recently, historians and other scholars have predominantly analyzed port cities as “nodal points” or “hubs” within global networks. The article argues that these perspectives project spatial patterns defined by the imaginary of globalization today into the past, failing to acknowledge how tightly interwoven globalization and urbanization were in port cities during the age of steam. However, port cities can provide concrete narrative focal points to develop empirically‐grounded global histories, and remind us of the various efforts to control, limit, or prevent unsolicited forms of mobility and entanglement in the sites where these were moored or fixed. Finally, port cities can render the labor of the urban masses visible that facilitated the making of steam age connectivity and a globality anchored in the urban space of the ports.
Placement depth and distribution of cattle slurry influence initial maize growth and phosphorus and nitrogen uptake
Authors: Baral Khagendra R. , Pedersen Ingeborg F. , Rubæk Gitte H. , Sørensen Peter
Published: June 2021

Background

Placed cattle slurry (CS) provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) to young maize (Zea Mays L.) plants and may substitute the use of mineral starter fertilizers. However, placement depth and distribution of slurry may influence the plant growth response.

Aims

The objective was to evaluate the effects of slurry placement depth and distribution on initial maize growth, and N and P uptake on loamy sand and coarse sandy soil.

Methods

In a pot experiment, CS spiked with (15NH4)2SO4 was placed either 2, 5, or 8 cm below the seed in a thick layer covering 50% of the central pot area or 5 cm below the seed in a thinner layer covering the whole pot area.

Results

In the loamy sand soil, maize biomass and P uptake at the five‐leaf stage were higher when slurry was placed in a thick‐centered layer 2 or 5 cm below the seed than at 8 cm. In the coarse sandy soil, maize biomass increased by 21%, when slurry was placed in a thinner layer covering the whole pot area, compared to slurry placed in a thick layer, whereas slurry placement depth had no effect on this soil type. Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and 15N recovery (15NRE) were not affected by slurry placement depth, but the application of slurry in the thick layer increased NUE and 15NRE in loamy sand soil as compared to the thin slurry layer at the same depth.

Conclusions

Placed CS could replace starter N and P fertilizer for the early growth of maize. The beneficial effect of placed slurry depended on slurry placement depth in the loamy sand soil and slurry distribution in the coarse sandy soil, and distribution of slurry in broader bands seems a promising strategy in coarse sandy soils.
Microbial consortium inoculant increases pasture grasses yield in low‐phosphorus soil by influencing root morphology, rhizosphere carboxylate exudation and mycorrhizal colonisation
Authors: Tshewang Sangay , Rengel Zed , Siddique Kadambot HM , Solaiman Zakaria M
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Pasture farming in south‐western Australia is challenged by nutrient‐poor soils. We assessed the impact of microbial consortium inoculant (MI) and rock mineral fertiliser (MF) on growth, nutrient uptake, root morphology, rhizosphere carboxylate exudation and mycorrhizal colonisation in three pasture grasses – tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea L.), veldt grass (Ehrharta calycina Sm.) and tall wheatgrass (Thinopyrum ponticum L.) grown in low‐phosphorus (P) sandy soil in a glasshouse for 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS).

RESULTS

Veldt grass produced the highest specific root length and smallest average root diameter in both growth periods, and had similar shoot weight, root surface area and fine root length (except at 30 DAS) to tall fescue. Compared with the control, MI alone or combined with MF significantly increased shoot and root biomass (except root biomass at 30 DAS), likely due to the significant increases in root surface area and fine root length. Plants supplied with MI + MF had higher shoot N and P contents than those in the MI and the control treatments at 60 DAS. Malate, citrate and trans‐aconitate were the major rhizosphere carboxylates exuded at both 30 and 60 DAS. Malate exudation varied among species and treatments in both growth periods, but citrate exudation was consistently higher in the low‐P treatments (control and MI) than the MF and MI + MF treatments.

CONCLUSION

Microbial consortium inoculant can positively influence pasture production in low‐P soil by increasing root surface area and fine root length, whereas exudation of nutrient‐mobilising carboxylates (citrate) is dependent more on soil P supply than microbial consortium inoculant. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Deficit drip irrigation based on crop evapotranspiration and precipitation forecast improves water‐ use efficiency and grain yield of summer maize
Authors: Lu Junsheng , Ma Lihui , Hu Tiantian , Geng Chenming , Yan Shicheng
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Limited and erratic precipitation with inefficient irrigation scheduling often leads to an unstable crop yield and low water‐use efficiency (WUE) in semi‐arid and semi‐humid regions. A 2‐year field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of three irrigation strategies (conventional irrigation (CK), full‐drip irrigation (FI), based on crop evapotranspiration and precipitation forecast, and deficit drip irrigation (DI) (75% FI)) on photosynthetic characteristics, leaf‐to‐air temperature difference (∆T), grain yield, and the WUE of summer maize.

RESULTS

The results showed that the daily average net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of DI and FI increased by 25.4% and 25.8% at jointing stage in 2018, and 26.3% and 26.5% at grain‐filling stage in 2019 compared with CK, respectively. At jointing stage in 2018 and grain‐filling stage in 2019, the transpiration rate (Tr) of DI was significantly lower than that of FI (P < 0.05) but there was insignificant difference in Pn value (P > 0.05). The ∆T between 12:00–14:00 of DI and FI was significantly lower than that of CK at jointing stage in 2018 and grain‐filling stage in 2019 (P < 0.05). The 2‐year average grain yields of DI and FI were 11.4 and 11.5 t ha−1, which increased by 32.4% and 32.8% compared with CK, respectively. The WUE of DI was 2.82 kg m−3, which was 17.9% and 33.8% higher than that of FI and CK, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Deficit drip irrigation based on crop evapotranspiration and precipitation forecast improves crop WUE and maintains high grain yields in semi‐arid and semi‐humid regions. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Aggregate stability and organic carbon stock under different land uses integrally regulated by binding agents and chemical properties in saline‐sodic soils
Authors: Feng Haojie , Wang Shunyi , Gao Zideng , Pan Hong , Zhuge Yuping , Ren Xueqin , Hu Shuwen , Li Chengliang
Published: June 2021

Aggregate stability and soil organic carbon (SOC) are critical for maintaining soil structure and preserving soil productivity. Land use substantially affects the process of soil aggregate stabilization and SOC sequestration, yet the detailed mechanisms have not been well studied in degraded soil ecosystems (e.g., saline‐sodic soils). Therefore, to interpret the effects of land‐use changes on soil aggregate stability and SOC stocks in saline‐sodic soils, soils were sampled from four major land‐use areas (degraded meadow, artificial forest, sorghum field, and paddy field) in Northeast China. The results showed that artificial forest soils exhibited the greatest proportion of water‐stable aggregate (>250 μm) in 0–10 and 10–20 cm layers than sorghum and paddy field, which was mainly due to the absence of tillage disturbance. The highest SOC stock (59.79 Mg ha−1) was observed in paddy soils, indicating its greater SOC sequestration potential than those of other land uses. The variance partition analysis (VPA) revealed that soil parameters resulted in 85.1% variation regarding soil aggregate stability, in which the chemical characteristics (i.e., pH, EC, exchangeable Na+, and exchangeable sodium percentage) contributed 23.1%, binding agents (SOC, exchangeable Ca2+, and poorly crystalline Fe/Al oxides) contributed 20.6%, and their interactions contributed 39.5%. Binding agents directly participated in soil aggregation processes by forming clay‐polyvalent metal complexes, while the chemical characteristics indirectly promoted soil aggregation via increasing various binding agents. Understanding the interactions between binding agents and clay are important for promoting soil aggregate stabilization in saline‐sodic soil.
Modelling spatial relationships between land cover change and its drivers in the Afro‐alpine belt of Mount Guna (Ethiopia)
Authors: Birhanu Adugnaw , Adgo Enyew , Frankl Amaury , Walraevens Kristine , Nyssen Jan
Published: June 2021

This study examines the spatial relationship between land cover change and its drivers at varying scale in Mt. Guna. The recent land cover map was generated from Google Earth Image (2018), and the historical land cover map generated from the 1957 and 1980 aerial photos. Multi‐scale geographically weighted regression (GWR) and ordinary least square (OLS) were used to model the spatial relationship between land cover change and its drivers at varying scale. The change analysis revealed that Mt. Guna showed a dynamic land cover change between 1957 and 2018 dominated by conversions into cropland. Overall, 69% of the land cover change shows gains and losses, while 31% of the land cover of Mt. Guna showed persistence over 61 years. Furthermore, 77% of land cover was swapped and changed from its initial state. The result of modelling the spatial relationship between land cover change and its drivers showed that population density, slope gradient and clustered homestead density increases the likelihood of land cover change, while higher elevation, water source density and precipitation reduces the likelihood of land cover change. However, the spatial scale comparison indicated that the influence is stronger in large spatial scales than in small scales.
A Hybrid Injectable and Self‐Healable Hydrogel System as 3D Cell Culture Scaffold
Authors: Cai Yi , Johnson Melissa , A Sigen , Xu Qian , Tai Hongyun , Wang Wenxin
Published: June 2021

Cell therapies have great potential for the treatment of many different diseases, while the direct application of cells to the targeted location leads to limited therapeutic outcomes due to the low cell engraftment and cell survival rate. Injectable hydrogels have been developed to facilitate cell delivery; however, those currently developed hydrogel systems still face the limited cell survival rate. Here, an injectable and self‐healable hydrogel is reported through the combination of hyperbranched PEG‐based multi‐hydrazide macro‐crosslinker (HB‐PEG‐HDZ) and aldehyde‐functionalized hyaluronic acid (HA‐CHO), with gelatin added to increase the crosslinking density and cell activity. The hydrogels can be formed only in 7 s due to the relatively high content of the functional end groups. The reversible crosslinking mechanism between the hydrazide and aldehyde groups endows the hydrogel with shear‐thinning and self‐healing properties. The hydrogels with gelatin exhibit relatively better mechanical properties and cell activity. The hydrogels can improve the survival, attachment, and engraftment of injected cells due to the rapid sol–gel transition, which can promote an enhanced regenerative response.
Reprocessable Supramolecular Elastomers of Poly(Siloxane–Urethane) via Self‐Complementary Quadruple Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Ma Xiyang , Zhou Debo , Liu Lei , Wang Linlin , Yu Huidong , Li Lei , Feng Shengyu
Published: June 2021

Supramolecular silicone materials are promising candidates toward sustainable and recyclable applications. Herein, quadruple hydrogen bond motifs are introduced into the main chain of polysiloxane for the first time, providing a new type of supramolecular silicone elastomers. This structural design enables the well‐defined spacing length between ureidopyrimidinone (UPY) units, exercising better control over polymer network structure. The obtained materials exhibit elastomeric properties and robust reprocessability, and can be further developed into europium (Eu)‐coordinated elastomers with interesting water‐responsive luminescence. It is highly anticipated that this work will broaden the scope and application of silicone‐based sustainable materials.
The psychology of frustration: Appraisals, outcomes, and service recovery
Authors: González‐Gómez Helena V. , Hudson Sarah , Rychalski Aude
Published: June 2021

This study fills a gap in the consumer emotions literature regarding customer frustration in a customer service setting. Most research on customer emotions has examined anger, happiness or affect in general, largely ignoring the particularities of frustration. Consistent with appraisal theory, we use five experiments to explore the different appraisal dimensions that define frustration and its relation to customer loyalty and satisfaction. Contrary to common belief, we show that frustration is not simply the result of goal‐blocking, but rather of a more complex combination of appraisals which differentiate it from anger and lead to distinct effects on satisfaction and loyalty. We also examine how the effects of frustration on loyalty and satisfaction are mitigated by service recovery in a further experiment and an event reconstructive method. Our results test appraisal theory, inform theory on customer emotions and have important implications for our understanding of customer satisfaction and loyalty following frustrating customer service encounters.
Recent Progress in Polymer Cubosomes and Hexosomes
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Min‐Hui
Published: June 2021

Polymer cubosomes and hexosomes are polymer colloids with inverted lyotropic liquid crystal phases as internal structures. They are composed of regular networks of water‐filled channels surrounded by a bilayer membrane made from amphiphilic block copolymers. Due to the uniform, tunable, and highly ordered porous structure, polymer cubosomes and hexosomes present numerous advantages over polymer micelles and vesicles, such as the high loading volumes for both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances, large specific surface areas, and good mechanical and chemical stabilities. The polymer chemistry also enables unlimited molecular design to endow these polymer colloids with a lot of adjustable physical and chemical properties. Therefore, polymer cubosomes and hexosomes have attracted increasing attention for their potential applications in materials science and nanotechnology. This review outlines the recent progress in this field with an emphasis on the polymer architectures, the self‐assembly conditions and mechanisms, and some application examples which are special for these inverted polymer colloids. It is hoped to provide some practical guidance for researchers interested in polymer cubosomes and hexosomes.
Study on the Thermal Stability of Urea‐Formaldehyde Resin Microcapsules with Nanosilica Incorporation by Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Experiments
Authors: Zhang Yanfang , Wang Youyuan , Li Yudong , Huang Zhengyong , Yaseen Adnan , Tan Yaxiong
Published: June 2021

It is an innovation to self‐heal the microdefects inside materials by doping microcapsules. Urea‐formaldehyde resin (UF) microcapsule is widely used in self‐healing materials owing to its excellent mechanical properties. However, when it is used in electrical insulation materials, the thermal stability of the microcapsules need to be enhanced owing to the relatively high internal temperature of the material under the long‐term action of electric field. In this paper, molecular dynamics simulation is used to calculate the properties related to the thermal stability of UF microcapsule with and without nanosilica incorporation. The simulation result shows that incorporating nanosilica can increase the density and glass transition temperature, decrease the fractional free volume of UF materials. The UF microcapsules with and without nanosilica incorporation are prepared experimentally, and thermogravimetric test result shows that incorporating nanosilica can enhance the thermal stability of UF microcapsule; scanning electron microscope result shows nanocomposite microcapsule has more UF debris adhered on its surface. By establishing the interface model of UF and nanosilica to explore the internal mechanism, it is found that the interface interaction between UF and nanosilica is conducive to enhancing the thermal stability of UF material.
High suicide risk found in newly diagnosed dementia patients
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2021

Newly diagnosed dementia patients are at three times the risk for suicide compared to the general geriatric population without the diagnosis, according to researchers who say the findings highlight the importance of suicide risk screening and support at the time of a new dementia diagnosis, particularly for patients under 75. The new research was published in Alzheimer's & Dementia.
Mental health added as fourth option to Austin 911 system
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2021

In response to a 911 call that may typically involve a medical emergency, the individual calling may hear the 911 dispatcher ask the nature of the call: police, fire or EMS? In Austin, Texas, individuals get to hear a fourth option: mental health services. The initiative is part of an effort by a team of licensed mental health professionals who provide a variety of different services and go anywhere an individual needs help.
Multiscale asymptotic analysis and computations for Steklov eigenvalue problem in periodically perforated domain
Authors: Ye Shuyu , Ma Qiang , Hu Bing , Cui Junzhi , Jiang Xue
Published: June 2021

A second‐order asymptotic analysis method is developed for the Steklov eigenvalue problem in periodically perforated domain. By the two‐scale expansions of the eigenfunctions and eigenvalues, the first‐ and second‐order cell functions defined on the representative cell are obtained successively, the homogenized elliptic eigenvalue problem is formulated, and effective coefficients are derived. The first‐ and second‐order correctors of the eigenvalues are expressed in terms of the integrations of the cell functions and homogenized eigenfunctions. The error estimations of the expansions of eigenvalues are established, and the corresponding finite element algorithm is proposed. Numerical examples are carried out, and both qualitative and quantitative comparisons with the solutions by classical finite element computations are performed. It is demonstrated that this asymptotic model is effective to capture the local details of the eigenfunctions by considering the second‐order expansion terms, and the algorithm presented in this work is efficient to obtain the accurate spectral properties of the porous material at lower cost.
Genistein Inhibits Colonic Goblet Cell Loss and Colorectal Inflammation Induced by Salmonella Typhimurium Infection
Authors: He Yang , Ayansola Hammed , Hou Qihang , Liao Chaoyong , Lei Jiaqi , Lai Yujiao , Jiang Qiuyu , Masatoshi Hori , Zhang Bingkun
Published: June 2021

Scope

Salmonella is the main food‐borne pathogen, which can infect intestinal epithelial cells and causes colitis. Genistein has a variety of biological activities that alleviates colitis induced by sodium dextran sulfate in a variety of ways, but its protective effects on colitis caused by pathogenic bacteria are still unknown.

Methods and Results

This study explores the protective effect of genistein in reducing colitis caused by Salmonella infection. Salmonella causes colon inflammation through activating cyclooxygenase‐2/prostaglandin E2, and genistein inhibits colitis caused by Salmonella typhimurium infection. Salmonella infection increases colonic mucosal damage, proliferating cells, and goblet cell loss, while the administration of genistein solves these pathological changes. In addition, it is further proved that Salmonella causes severe colitis related to goblet cell loss and activates the host crypt stem cells to repair the damaged epithelium. Salmonella infection inhibites the host mammalian target of rapamycin, activates light chain 3 II pathways to induce autophagy to eliminate pathogenic bacteria. Genistein increases Lactobacillus in feces and reduces Salmonella colonization to inhibit colitis induces by Salmonella infection.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates genistein alleviated colitis and inhibites the goblet cell loss causes by Salmonella infection through regulating the gut bacteria and intestinal stem cell development.
A Single Particle Model to Predict the Impact of Induced Condensing Agents on Polymerizing Particles During the Gas Phase Polymerization of Ethylene
Authors: Ben Mrad Amel , Sheibat‐Othman Nida , McKenna Timothy F. L.
Published: June 2021

A single particle model for homopolymerization of ethylene in the presence of hydrogen is used to predict the impact of induced condensing agents on the evolution of concentration profiles in the growing particle, the rate of homopolymerization, and the evolution of the molecular weight distribution. The model formulation is based on the random‐pore polymer flow model associated with a kinetic model using the method of moments to describe the chain length. The Sanchez–Lacombe equation of state is applied to calculate the equilibrium concentration of each penetrant in a mixture of gases in the amorphous polymer phase. The free volume model from Vrentas and Duda is employed to calculate the diffusivity coefficients of penetrants in a semi‐crystalline polymer. The model confirms that the increased rates of production and increased molecular weights observed in previously published experimental studies are due in large part to the co‐solubility and co‐diffusivity effects.
Pelvic floor reconstructive surgery under local anesthesia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zacharakis Dimitrios , Prodromidou Anastasia , Douligeris Athanasios , Hadzilia Sofia , Kathopoulis Nikolaos , Athanasiou Stavros , Grigoriadis Themos
Published: June 2021

Aims

The decision on the appropriate type of anesthesia for pelvic floor repair depends on a variety of factors including patients' age, performance status, comorbidities, cost‐effectiveness and personal preferences. We aim to review the literature on urogynecological procedures performed under local anesthesia (LA).

Methods

A systematic search of four electronic databases was conducted for articles published up to May 2020. Studies reporting outcomes of women who underwent pelvic floor reconstructive surgery under LA with or without sedation, were considered eligible.

Results

Nineteen studies (14 noncomparative and 5 comparative), including 1626 cases of urogynecological procedures under LA were recruited. Meta‐analysis revealed significantly lower mean pain scores in LA group compared to general‐regional anesthesia one (GA/RA) at both 4–6 h and 8–18 h postoperatively (160 patients; mean difference [MD], −1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.12, −0.28; p = 0.02 and 160 patients; MD, −0.72; 95% CI: −1.17, 0.27; p = 0.002, respectively). Pain scores at >24 h did not differ among the two groups (160 patients; MD, −0.28; 95% CI: −0.60–0.05; p = 0.10). Intra‐ and postoperatively morphine use was not different among patients who received LA and GA during prolapse surgery while nausea rates were significantly lower in LA group compared to RA group 8 h postoperatively.

Conclusions

LA with or without sedation represents a safe and efficient alternative anesthetic technique for urogynecological procedures with improved pain scores in up to 18 h postoperatively especially in patients who underwent surgery for SUI. LA is feasible and could be offered to patients undergoing pelvic floor surgery allowing a prompt postoperative recovery.
Sequential selection for accelerated life testing via approximate Bayesian inference
Authors: Chen Ye , Zhang Qiong , Li Mingyang , Cai Wenjun
Published: June 2021

Accelerated life testing (ALT) is typically used to assess the reliability of material's lifetime under desired stress levels. Recent advances in material engineering have made a variety of material settings readily available. A critical question is how to efficiently conduct ALT to optimize reliability performance over different material settings. We propose a sequential selection approach to solve this problem. The proposed approach contains (1) a model updating mechanism to incorporate new experimental data in each step, and (2) a design criterion to guide new experiments that maximizes the potential to find the optimal material setting. To guarantee a tractable statistical mechanism for information collection, we develop explicit model parameter update formulas via approximate Bayesian inference. Theories show that our explicit update formulas give consistent parameter estimates. To guarantee that the design criterion in each step can make improvement on the identification of optimal material setting, this paper adopts an expected improvement‐based design criterion for optimizing the material setting under target stress factor levels. We also give a heuristic on this design criterion to justify the statistical consistency of approximate Bayesian estimates. Simulation studies and a case study show that the proposed sequential selection approach can significantly improve the probability of identifying the material alternative with best reliability performance compared to other design approaches.
A spherical‐harmonic‐based approach to discrete element modeling of 3D irregular particles
Authors: Wang Xiang , Yin Zhen‐Yu , Xiong Hao , Su Dong , Feng Yun‐Tian
Published: June 2021

Different from previous discrete element methods (DEM), where irregular 3D particle shapes are approximated by subspheres, vertices, or voxels, this study aims to develop an innovative and computationally effective DEM method directly employing spherical harmonic functions for simulations of 3D irregular‐shaped particles. First, the discrete surface points of a 3D irregular‐shaped particle are represented by spherical harmonic functions with only a limited number of harmonic coefficients to restore the particle morphology. Then, the intrinsic physical quantities are computed directly using spherical harmonic functions. Next, specific algorithms for interparticle overlapping detection and contact resolution involving the spherical harmonic functions are developed. Subsequently, the interparticle contact forces, moments, and particle movements are computed. The feasibility and capability of the proposed 3D method are verified by simulating random deposition of superellipsoids, repose angle tests, and triaxial tests on particles with various shapes. The proposed method could pave a viable pathway for realistic modeling of granular media pertaining to various engineering and industrial processes.
A qualitative study about cancer outpatients’ experiences with selective taste control of bread as a self‐care intervention
Authors: Corremans Marleen , Goossens Edwig , Adriaenssens Jef , Mortelmans Dimitri , Geurden Bart
Published: June 2021

Aim

Alterations in taste are distressing side effects for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. The Center for Gastrology (Belgium) developed a self‐care intervention based on taste control. This intervention contains an assessment of the individual taste and food hedonics. It provides recipes based on the individual assessed hedonics profile, so patients can self‐prepare personalized meals. This study aims to describe the experiences of oncologic patients with the home baking of personalized bread.

Design

A qualitative, descriptive design with individual semi‐structured interviews was used.

Methods

In August 2018, eleven face‐to‐face interviews were conducted until data saturation.

Results

The analysis of the interviews revealed five major themes: “Stepping out of your role,” “Having something positive to do,” “gaining insight,” “receiving recognition” and “practical limitations.”
Exploring dietary practices in non‐adults of the Late Bronze Age Southern Urals: A perspective from dental attributes
Authors: Karapetian Marina K. , Kufterin Vladimir V. , Chaplygin Mikhail S. , Starodubtsev Maksim V. , Bakhshiev Ilshat I.
Published: June 2021

The article provides a bioarchaeological perspective on the dietary practices of the Late Bronze Age Southern Ural communities, which once inhabited the steppe and forest‐steppe zones of modern Bashkiria (Russia), via studying the pathological dental conditions and aspects of dental tooth use in skeletal remains from four kurgan cemeteries. As children and adolescents constitute the majority of the skeletal remains, the focus is on non‐adult dentition. The cemeteries were used by Srubnaya and Srubnaya‐Alakul communities that are believed to have been settled pastoralists. Despite the absence of convincing archaeological evidence, the existence of secondary‐role agriculture in these communities has not been ruled out. The studied sample includes 38 non‐adults (<18 years of age). The dental attributes studied were linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH), caries, dental calculus, dental wear, and antemortem enamel chipping. In total, the sample showed no cases of caries, a very high frequency of dental calculus, and a frequency of enamel chips that increased with age. The rate of dental wear seems to be mild, though there is a need for comparative data on non‐adults. The frequency of LEH was relatively low and the defects peaked at about 2–4 years of age. Basically, the Bashkirian Late Bronze Age (LBA) non‐adult sample fits well into the larger picture of the Bronze Age pastoralists from the Volga‐Ural and Trans‐Ural steppes. Given the archaeological evidence and the prevalence of the studied dental characteristics, the data are consistent with a society primarily reliant on meat and milk products.
Evaluation of 3‐ and 4‐Phenoxybenzamides as Selective Inhibitors of the Mono‐ADP‐Ribosyltransferase PARP10
Authors: Korn Patricia , Classen Arno , Murthy Sudarshan , Guareschi Riccardo , Maksimainen Mirko M. , Lippok Barbara E. , Galera‐Prat Albert , Sowa Sven T. , Voigt Catharina , Rossetti Giulia , Lehtiö Lari , Bolm Carsten , Lüscher Bernhard
Published: June 2021

Intracellular ADP‐ribosyltransferases catalyze mono‐ and poly‐ADP‐ribosylation and affect a broad range of biological processes. The mono‐ADP‐ribosyltransferase PARP10 is involved in signaling and DNA repair. Previous studies identified OUL35 as a selective, cell permeable inhibitor of PARP10. We have further explored the chemical space of OUL35 by synthesizing and investigating structurally related analogs. Key synthetic steps were metal‐catalyzed cross‐couplings and functional group modifications. We identified 4‐(4‐cyanophenoxy)benzamide and 3‐(4‐carbamoylphenoxy)benzamide as PARP10 inhibitors with distinct selectivities. Both compounds were cell permeable and interfered with PARP10 toxicity. Moreover, both revealed some inhibition of PARP2 but not PARP1, unlike clinically used PARP inhibitors, which typically inhibit both enzymes. Using crystallography and molecular modeling the binding of the compounds to different ADP‐ribosyltransferases was explored regarding selectivity. Together, these studies define additional compounds that interfere with PARP10 function and thus expand our repertoire of inhibitors to further optimize selectivity and potency.
Research on the fire safety effect of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer based on sodium fumarate
Authors: Wei Zhibiao , Chen Xilei , Jiao Chuanmei , Ma Mingliang
Published: June 2021

Sodium fumarate (SF, C4H3NaO4), as a low‐cost and environment‐friendly additive, has been applied as the fire safety agent to investigate the flame retardancy and smoke suppression property in thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU). A series of tests were carried out, including limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimeter test (CCT), smoke density test (SDT), and thermogravimetric/Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TG‐IR). The results proved that the addition of SF can significantly improve the fire safety property of TPU. Remarkably, in the case of the sample containing 2.0 wt% SF, LOI was raised up to 27.5 compared with 21.0 of pure TPU. The CCT results showed that pHRR, THR, TSR, and SF values decreased by 60.1%, 17.0%, 44.6%, and 66.4%, respectively, while the residual mass increased from 3.0% to 12.3% compared with pure TPU. The digital photographs displayed a more compact and intense carbon layer after the addition of SF. The SDT results indicated SF has increased the luminous flux and reduced Ds values, implying the improvement of the smoke suppression property of TPU. TG and TG‐IR results showed that the addition of SF has promoted the char forming process and reduced the release of CO2 and other volatile compounds. All results of tests illustrated that SF has considerable fire safety effect on TPU. Through the analysis of the results of this experiment, it will make a significance in the aspect of fire safety of polymer.