bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Lewis‐Acidic Surface Sites Using Tetrahydrofuran as a Suitable and Smart Probe Molecule
Authors: Halawy Samih A. , Osman Ahmed I. , Abdelkader Adel , Nasr Mahmoud , Rooney David W.
Published: March 2022

Measuring the Lewis‐acidic surface sites in catalysis is problematic when the material‘s surface area is very low (SBET ≤1 m2 ⋅ g−1). For the first time, a quantitative assessment of total acidic surface sites of very small surface area catalysts (MoO3 as pure and mixed with 5–30 % CdO (wt/wt), as well as CdO for comparison) was performed using a smart new probe molecule, tetrahydrofuran (THF). The results were nearly identical compared to using another commonly used probe molecule, pyridine. This audition is based on the limited values of the surface area of these samples that likely require a relatively moderate basic molecule as THF with pKb=16.08, rather than strong basic molecules such as NH3 (pKb=4.75) or pyridine (pKb=8.77). We propose mechanisms for the interaction of vapour phase molecules of THF with the Lewis‐cationic Mo and Cd atoms of these catalysts. Besides, dehydration of isopropyl alcohol was used as a probe reaction to investigate the catalytic activity of these catalysts to further support our findings in the case of THF in a temperature range of 175–300 °C. A good agreement between the obtained data of sample MoO3‐10 % CdO, which is characterised by the highest surface area value, the population of Lewis‐acidic sites and % selectivity of propylene at all the applied reaction temperatures was found.
Sustainable development and the need to reform the carbon tax
Authors: Bragagni Maurizio , Xhaferraj Lorenc , Mazza Irene , Concetti Giuseppe
Published: March 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has raised awareness of the urgency of reforming our economy to achieve a global recovery. This endeavour will require the implementation of various strategies aiming for a system reset, at the core of which is the sustainable recovery model. In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 22 April as International Mother Earth Day. It was a brave act of acknowledgement that the Earth and its ecosystems are our typical home. At the same time, it is a tangible expression of the global conviction that humankind must be in Harmony with Nature to achieve a just balance among the economic, social and environmental needs of present and future generations. While the global community is actively searching for new ways to achieve sustainable development, resolved to perform an economic system reset, determined to a green recovery, why don't we try to reform the taxing system? A right taxation system could help recover quickly and achieve a green recovery of the global economy. While everyone has to pay tax, the truth is that some more prominent companies go to extreme measures to minimise their contribution where they are based and where they sell. The new thinking that this article puts forward is that instead of taxing the companies for what they produce and sell, we should tally the amount of CO2 a company emits while making the goods and recycling them to tax them accordingly.
Obesity in children with acute promyelocytic leukemia: What is its prevalence and prognostic significance?
Authors: Laurie Kathryn L. , Lee Paul , Rademaker Alfred , Alonzo Todd A. , Wang Yi‐Cheng , Powell Bayard L. , Wu Diana , Larson Richard , Kutny Matthew , Gregory John , Hijiya Nobuko , Feusner James
Published: March 2022

Objective

To compare outcomes of obese and nonobese pediatric patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) from the Cancer and Leukemia Group B trial (CALGB) 9710 and the Children's Oncology Group trial AAML0631.

Methods

Data including demographics, adverse events, overall and event‐free survival (EFS) were analyzed.

Results

The prevalence of obesity was 34% on C9710 and 35% on AAML0631. There was significantly lower overall and EFS in the obese population on multivariable analysis on AAML0631 but not on CALGB 9710. Eleven patients died during therapy or in follow‐up.

Conclusion

The prevalence of obesity is higher in pediatric patients with APL compared to the general population. The decreased EFS and OS in obese patients on AAML0631 suggest that the presence of obesity can influence outcomes using the most current treatment. These findings support the need for further research on the potential role of obesity in pediatric APL leukemogenesis.
Fatigue behavior and modeling of chopped carbon fiber reinforced sheet molding compound composites
Authors: Sun Xuze , Cui Haitao , Bao Zuguo , Huang Li , Huang Shiyao , Han Weijian
Published: March 2022

The quasi‐static and fatigue behavior of chopped carbon fiber reinforced sheet molding compound (SMC) composite was investigated. The microstructure of material was inspected by X‐ray Computerized Tomography (XCT) and the fiber orientation distribution was analyzed. Quasi‐static tensile test was performed on specimens with different gauge length to study the size effect on mechanical properties and digital image correlation system was applied to record the strain distribution. The fatigue behavior of material was evaluated under both tension‐tension (R = 0.1) and tension‐compression (R = −1) loadings, in which XCT scanned specimens were tested to characterize the microstructure at failure location. Interrupted fatigue test was performed to observe the damage evolution process on the side surface of specimen by optical microscope and the dominant fatigue failure modes were identified. A representative volume element based modeling methodology was modified and applied to establish the relationship between heterogenous microstructure and macroscopic mechanical behaviors. The simulation results show good consistency with experimental observations which demonstrates the effect of local fiber orientation on durability performance of material.
Association between pre‐admission anticoagulation and in‐hospital death, venous thromboembolism, and major bleeding among hospitalized COVID‐19 patients in Japan
Authors: Adomi Motohiko , Kuno Toshiki , Komiyama Jun , Taniguchi Yuta , Abe Toshikazu , Miyawaki Atsushi , Imai Shinobu , Morita Kojiro , Saito Makoto , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Kamio Tadashi , Tamiya Nanako , Iwagami Masao
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The coagulation activation leads to thrombotic complications such as venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19). Prophylactic anticoagulation therapy has been recommended for hospitalized COVID‐19 patients in clinical guidelines. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the association between pre‐admission anticoagulation treatment and three outcomes: in‐hospital death, VTE, and major bleeding among hospitalized COVID‐19 patients in Japan.

Methods

Using a large‐scale claims database built by the Medical Data Vision Co. in Japan, we identified patients hospitalized for COVID‐19 who had outpatient prescription data at least once within 3 months before being hospitalized. Exposure was set as pre‐admission anticoagulation treatment (direct oral anticoagulant or vitamin K antagonist), and outcomes were in‐hospital death, VTE, and major bleeding. We conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusting for a single summarized score (a propensity score of receiving pre‐admission anticoagulation) for VTE and major bleeding, due to the small number of outcomes.

Results

Among the 2612 analytic patients, 179 (6.9%) had pre‐admission anticoagulation. Crude incidence proportions were 13.4% versus 8.5% for in‐hospital death, 0.56% versus 0.58% for VTE, and 2.2% versus 1.1% for major bleeding among patients with and without pre‐admission anticoagulation, respectively. Adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 1.25 (0.75–2.08) for in‐hospital death, 0.21 (0.02–1.97) for VTE, and 2.63 (0.80–8.65) for major bleeding. Several sensitivity analyses did not change the results.

Conclusions

We found no evidence that pre‐admission anticoagulation treatment was associated with in‐hospital death. However, a larger sample size may be needed to conclude its effect on VTE and major bleeding.
The effects of heteroatom substituents on structure, stability, and electronic properties of remote N‐heterocyclic germylenes (rNHGes), at DFT
Authors: Cao Yan , Poor Heravi Mohammad Reza , Habibzadeh Sepideh , Ebadi Abdol Ghaffar , Shoaei Seyed Mohammad , Vessally Esmail
Published: March 2022

In this theoretical research, we have investigated the substituent effect of singlet (s) and triplet (t) rNHGes with the fused various aromatic rings, at (U)B3LYP/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ and (U)M06‐2X/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ. All singlet and triplet rNHGes appear as minima and every singlet germylene displays more thermodynamic stability and more kinetic stability than its corresponding triplet state. Regarding to the relationship among germylenic center (—:GeC— moiety) and the substituted NH, PH, O, and S—heteroatoms, the order of thermodynamic stability based on singlet (s)–triplet (t) energy difference (ΔΕs‐t) and kinetic stability based on band gap (ΔΕHOMO‐LUMO) for the fused rings is ortho‐pyrrole > furan > thiophene > benzene > phosphole in a “zigzag” arrangement. Except for phosphole, every ortho‐heterocycle ring in a “zigzag” arrangement stabilizes rNHGe more than para‐heterocycle ring in a “chair” arrangement. Every triplet rNHGe shows lower frequency, lower polarity, higher nucleophilicity, lower electrophilicity and lower chemical hardness than the corresponding singlet rNHGe. The resonance effect and aromaticity character of the scrutinized rNHGes appears considerably dependent on the electronegativity, size, and topology of the substituted heteroatoms in the fused rings.
Combustion Behavior of the Inorganic Nitrates‐Based Compositions. Part II: Effect of Al and Al‐Mg Alloy on Burning Rate
Authors: Denisyuk Anatoly P. , Duy Tuan Nguyen , Sizov Vladimir A.
Published: March 2022

The influence of metallic fuel (aluminum and aluminum‐magnesium alloy) on the burning rate of compositions based on inorganic nitrates (KNO3, NaNO3, CsNO3, Ba(NO3)2, Sr(NO3)2) was studied in a wide range of pressure (0.1–18 MPa). Samples have the same binder and differ in basic burning rate and flame temperature. Calculated flame temperature greatly depends on the Al and Al−Mg amount. The effect of metallic fuel on the burning rate of basic samples is complex. It depends not only on the properties of metals but also on the influence of cation nitrate on the burning rate of the basic sample and pressure combustion. Al and Al−Mg alloy have a different effect on the burning rate of the base samples. The efficiency of the metal on the combustion of base compositions is higher for low burning rate samples and samples with an increased oxidizer excess ratio. The lowest positive metal efficiency on the burning rate is observed for the fast‐burning KNO3 and CsNO3‐based compositions. At low pressure, Al−Mg alloy has a more significant effect than Al on the burning rate of the base samples. A slight increase in the burning rate for fast‐burning basic compositions is observed with the addition of a small amount of Al at atmospheric pressure. With a further rise of Al amount in the composition, the burning rate of the metalized sample becomes lower than the basic sample. With pressure growth, the metal effect on the burning rate increases due to a proportional change in the density of the resulting combustion products. As a result, metal combustion was more complete in the zone affecting the increase of burning rate.
Tumorigenic transformation of human prostatic epithelial cell line RWPE‐1 by growth hormone‐releasing hormone (GHRH)
Authors: Muñoz‐Moreno Laura , Carmena M. José , Prieto Juan C. , Schally Andrew V. , Bajo Ana M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Growth hormone‐releasing hormone (GHRH) and its receptors have been implicated in the progression of various tumors. In this study, we analyzed the carcinogenetic potential of exposure to GHRH of a nontumor human prostate epithelial cell line (RWPE‐1) as well as its transforming effect in a xenograft model.

Methods

We performed cell viability, cell proliferation, adhesion and migration assays. In addition, metalloprotease (MMP)−2 activity by means gelatin zymography, GHRH‐R subcellular location using confocal immunofluorescence microscopy and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels by enzyme‐linked immunoassay were assessed. Besides, we developed an in vivo model in order vivo model to determine the role of GHRH on tumorigenic transformation of RWPE‐1 cells.

Results

In cell cultures, we observed development of a migratory phenotype consistent with the gelatinolytic activity of MMP‐2, expression of VEGF, as well as E‐cadherin‐mediated cell‐cell adhesion and increased cell motility. Treatment with 0.1 µM GHRH for 24 h significantly increased cell viability and cell proliferation. Similar effects of GHRH were seen in RWPE‐1 tumors developed by subcutaneous injection of GHRH‐treated cells in athymic nude mice, 49 days after inoculation.

Conclusions

Thus, GHRH appears to act as a cytokine in the transformation of RWPE‐1 cells by mechanisms that likely involve epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, thus reinforcing the role of GHRH in tumorigenesis of prostate.
Tracking the transmission dynamics of COVID‐19 with a time‐varying coefficient state‐space model
Authors: Keller Joshua P. , Zhou Tianjian , Kaplan Andee , Anderson G. Brooke , Zhou Wen
Published: March 2022

The spread of COVID‐19 has been greatly impacted by regulatory policies and behavior patterns that vary across counties, states, and countries. Population‐level dynamics of COVID‐19 can generally be described using a set of ordinary differential equations, but these deterministic equations are insufficient for modeling the observed case rates, which can vary due to local testing and case reporting policies and nonhomogeneous behavior among individuals. To assess the impact of population mobility on the spread of COVID‐19, we have developed a novel Bayesian time‐varying coefficient state‐space model for infectious disease transmission. The foundation of this model is a time‐varying coefficient compartment model to recapitulate the dynamics among susceptible, exposed, undetected infectious, detected infectious, undetected removed, hospitalized, detected recovered, and detected deceased individuals. The infectiousness and detection parameters are modeled to vary by time, and the infectiousness component in the model incorporates information on multiple sources of population mobility. Along with this compartment model, a multiplicative process model is introduced to allow for deviation from the deterministic dynamics. We apply this model to observed COVID‐19 cases and deaths in several U.S. states and Colorado counties. We find that population mobility measures are highly correlated with transmission rates and can explain complicated temporal variation in infectiousness in these regions. Additionally, the inferred connections between mobility and epidemiological parameters, varying across locations, have revealed the heterogeneous effects of different policies on the dynamics of COVID‐19.
A Direct and Divergent Entrance to Aza Heterocycles On 3‐Amino Carbazole
Authors: Murali Karunanidhi , Prasad Karnam Jayarampillai Rajendra
Published: March 2022

The product‐switchable reagent‐controlled construction of 1,4‐Dihydropyridines and stereo‐structured amino dienes decorated with carbazole moieties have been realized via coupling of 3‐amino‐9‐ethylcarbazole with benzaldehyde and methyl propiolate. Highly functionalized pyrido[3,2‐b]carbazoles have been concisely synthesized in good yields via Et3N promoted single‐pot assembly of 3‐amino‐9‐ethylcarbazole with aryl/heteroaryl aldehydes and α‐aryl‐3‐oxopropanenitrile. The structures of the synthesized products were confirmed by spectral data and elemental analysis.
Antiproliferative and Proapoptotic Effect of Daucus carota in Cervical Cancer Cells: An In Vitro Approach
Authors: Zaib Sumera , Virk Urooj Y. , Wattoo Javed I. , Shah Hamid S. , Awwad Nasser S. , Ibrahium Hala A. , Khan Imtiaz
Published: March 2022

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. Synthetic chemotherapeutic drugs such as bevacizumab have been employed for the treatment of cervical cancer, however, due to the associated side effects of bevacizumab, it has been substituted for plants with anticancer activities. Therefore, organic agricultural plants with anticancer activity have gained significant attention and emerged as a main area of research. Daucus carota (carrots) have phytochemicals that exhibit remarkable anticancer properties (antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects). We herein report the extraction of phytochemicals from D. carota. The characterization was performed using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. The inhibitory concentration at 50 % (IC50) of phytochemicals was assessed by sulforhodamine B assay utilizing HeLa cells and found 1.94 μg/mL. These cell lines were treated with varying concentration of phytochemicals (1.98 (1X IC50) and 3.88 μg/mL (2X IC50)) and were stained with 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) and propidium iodide (PI) dyes. Moreover, activation of caspase‐3 assay, changes in mitochondrial membrane potential, production of lactate dehydrogenase and reactive oxygen species, investigation of DNA damage by comet assay and cell cycle assessment by flow cytometry were accomplished. The results demonstrated that these phytochemicals led to apoptosis, cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation and nuclear fragmentation, triggered antiproliferative and proapoptotic potential on HeLa cell lines.
Supramolecular Salts of Fe(II)/Co(II)/Ni(II)/Cu(II)/Zn(II) 1,10‐Phenanthroline Cations and Similar Complex Tartratostannate(IV) Anions: From Structural Features to Antimicrobial Activity and Enzyme Activation
Authors: Afanasenko Eleonora , Seifullina Inna , Martsinko Elena , Konup Ludmila , Fizer Maksym , Gudzenko Olena , Borzova Nataliya
Published: March 2022

In the present study authors establish the influence of complex cation on the structure formation, crystal packing, antimicrobial activity and enzyme activation of the previously described isostructural [M(phen)3]2[Sn2(μ‐Tart)2(H2Tart)2] complexes (M(II)=Fe(1), Co(2), Ni(3), Cu(4), Zn(5)). Despite the similarity of composition and structure, compounds 1–5 showed different level of antimicrobial activity. A certain pattern in their effectiveness – decreasing of minimal concentrations, resembles the Irving‐Williams series (Fe(II) < Co(II) < Ni(II) < Cu(II) > Zn(II)) and, according to the crystal field theory, correlates with the thermodynamic stability of octahedral cations [M(phen)3]2+. Quantum chemical calculations of cations revealed the insights of the “cations‐cell membranes” interactions and allowed authors to conclude that the cations in compounds 4 and 5 are the most lipophilic, have the highest affinity to the lipophilic cell membrane and, as a result, are more bioactive. It was established that compounds 1–5 had a different influence on the activity of studied α‐L‐rhamnosidases Penicillium tardum ІMB F‐100074 and Penicillium restrictum ІMB F‐100139. Correlation of these results with the crystal voids calculations and Hirshfeld surface analysis allow authors to suggest that presence of the bigger number of water molecules, generation of the branched network of hydrogen bonds and formation of active intermediate complex “enzyme – effector – substrate”, leads to the biggest intensification of activation properties for the compounds 2 and 5.
Unveiling Role of Metals in Mononuclear Metal‐Complexes for Chemodosimetric Detection of S2− from aqueous medium: Experimental and DFT Corroboration with Real‐Field Application
Authors: Pandit Nithun Ranjan , Bej Sourav , Banerjee Priyabrata , Biswas Biplab
Published: March 2022

Herein, we have reported two isostructural mononuclear metal complexes [M(HL)2(ClO4)2], wherein, M= Co2+ (viz. SN‐1) and Ni2+ (viz. SN‐2) and HL is NNO donor Schiff‐base ligand i. e. ((E)‐2‐methyl‐2‐((pyridin‐2‐ylmethylene)amino)propan‐1‐ol) for unveiling as molecular sensor for S2− (sulphide) like hazardous entity. The molecular probes have been characterized by SCXRD, 1H‐NMR, FT‐IR, HRMS etc. X‐ray diffraction studies confirm the mono‐nuclear structures of both the complexes. Interestingly, SN‐1 exhibited remarkable sensitivity towards S2− by naked eye colour change in purely aqueous medium with detection limit of 33.5 nM and binding constant of 11.05 × 108 M−1 while the SN‐2 didn't show any subtle chromogenic changes upon interaction with the targeted analyte. Judicious choice of metal centre plays a pivotal role for such discriminative interacting behaviour. Spectroscopic and DFT studies shed light on the mechanistic pathway of host‐guest interaction, indicating a S2− mediated chemodosimetric approach following HSAB principle. Impressively, the SN‐1 has also been explored towards fabrication of test strips for on‐field detection of H2S/S2− via. “Dip‐Stick” approaches. In a nutshell, the presently developed simple mono‐nuclear metal complex can be utilised for detecting gasotransmitter like H2S/S2− from purely aqueous medium that may be helpful in fabricating “point‐of‐care” devices in coming days for better understanding of H2S as a key role maker in various health related issues.
Application of Cyclohexane‐1,3‐diones in the Synthesis of Six‐Membered Nitrogen‐Containing Heterocycles
Authors: Sharma Dharminder , Kumar Manish , Kumar Sandeep , Basu Amartya , Bhattacherjee Dhananjay , Chaudhary Abha , Das Pralay
Published: March 2022

Cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione and its derivatives are imperative precursors in synthetic organic chemistry as they are useful intermediates for the synthesis of a wide range of biologically active natural products, heterocycles and pharmaceuticals. Recently, cyclohexane‐1,3‐diones have been used for the synthesis of varied array of six‐membered nitrogen‐containing heterocycles in the presence of aldehydes, acetoacetic esters, malononitrile, chalcones, coumarins, acetophenones, amino acids, amines, etc. under catalytic and non‐catalytic conditions. Newest studies on the importance of these heterocycles motivated us to compile all the recently developed processes which include the fabrication of six‐membered nitrogen heterocycles. This article is mainly focused on the efficient synthesis of six‐membered N‐heterocycles i. e. 1,4‐dihydropyridine, acridine‐1,8‐diones, benzoacridinones, quinolones and pyridine derivatives from cyclohexane‐1,3‐diones as one of the substrates, published for the last ten years.
Flexoelectric Domain Walls Originated from Structural Phase Transition in Epitaxial BiVO4 Films
Authors: Shao Pao‐Wen , Liu Heng‐Jui , Sun Yuanwei , Wu Mei , Peng Ren‐Ci , Wang Meng , Xue Fei , Cheng Xiaoxing , Su Lei , Gao Peng , Yu Pu , Chen Long‐Qing , Pan Xiaoqing , Ivry Yachin , Chen Yi‐Chun , Chu Ying‐Hao
Published: March 2022

Polar domain walls in centrosymmetric ferroelastics induce inhomogeneity that is the origin of advantageous multifunctionality. In particular, polar domain walls promote charge‐carrier separation and hence are promising for energy conversion applications that overcome the hurdles of the rate‐limiting step in the traditional photoelectrochemical water splitting processes. Yet, while macroscopic studies investigate the materials at the device scale, the origin of this phenomenon in general and the emergence of polar domain walls during the structural phase transition in particular has remained elusive, encumbering the development of this attractive system. Here, it is demonstrated that twin domain walls arise in centrosymmetric BiVO4 films and they exhibit localized piezoelectricity. It is also shown that during the structural phase transition from the tetragonal to monoclinic, the symmetry reduction is accompanied by an emergence of strain gradient, giving rise to flexoelectric effect and the polar domain walls. These results not only expose the emergence of polar domain walls at centrosymmetric systems by means of direct observation, but they also expand the realm of potential application of ferroelastics, especially in photoelectrochemistry and local piezoelectricity.
Single‐Cell Motility Rapidly Quantifying Heteroresistance in Populations of Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium
Authors: Pitruzzello Giampaolo , Baumann Christoph G. , Johnson Steven , Krauss Thomas F.
Published: March 2022

Heterogeneous bacterial populations can display increased resistance to external threats, such as exposure to antibiotics. Despite the mounting clinical evidence supporting the importance of bacterial heterogeneity in acute infections, current antimicrobial susceptibility tests (ASTs) are typically insensitive to cell‐to‐cell differences as they only measure population‐wide averages. Herein, the use of single‐cell motility to address this issue is demonstrated. It is shown for the first time that antibiotic susceptibility detected as a change in single‐cell motility is an excellent proxy for polyclonal and monoclonal heteroresistance. It is also demonstrated that motility and growth are both inhibited by an antibiotic with strikingly similar patterns, thus enabling the quantification of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) using a high‐throughput, single‐cell motility assay. The method allows for the detection of heteroresistance in Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium in 2 h or less and quantifies the MIC of an antibiotic in 1.5 h. The findings emphasize the need for characterizing bacterial heterogeneity, and they highlight the importance of single‐cell bacterial motility in assessing both antibiotic susceptibility and population‐wide heteroresistance.
Recent Progress of Benzodifuran‐Based Polymer Donors for High‐Performance Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Li Xiaoming , Li Yan , Zhang Yong , Sun Yanming
Published: March 2022

At present, a variety of benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene (BDT)‐based polymer donors are designed and synthesized, which have made great progress toward achieving high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of polymer solar cells (PSCs). Despite many advantages of benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]difuran (BDF) compared with BDT unit, the overall performance of BDF polymer‐based PSCs lags far behind that of the counterpart BDT‐based polymers. Recently, great advances have been achieved in BDF polymer‐based PSCs with the highest PCEs over 16%, suggesting that BDF‐based polymers have the significant potential to catch up or even surpass the performance of BDT‐based polymers. In this review, the recent advances of BDF polymers in PSCs are first summarized and then the design strategies and the chemical structure–performance relationships of BDF polymers are discussed. Finally, perspectives on the future development of BDF polymers for high‐efficiency PSCs are provided.
An Anti‐Biofouling Flexible Fiber Biofuel Cell Working in the Brain
Authors: Guo Yue , Chen Chuanrui , Feng Jianyou , Wang Liyuan , Wang Jiajia , Tang Chengqiang , Sun Xuemei , Peng Huisheng
Published: March 2022

Biofuel cell (BFC) that transfers chemical energy into electricity is a promising candidate as an energy‐harvesting device for implantable electronics. However, there still remain major challenges for implantable BFCs, including bulky and rigid device structure mismatching with soft tissues such as the brain, and the power output decreases due to the fouling process in a biological environment. Here, a flexible and anti‐biofouling fiber BFC working in the brain chronically is developed. The fiber BFC is based on a carbon nanotube fiber electrode to possess small size and flexibility. A hydrophilic zwitterionic anti‐biofouling polydopamine‐2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine layer is designed on the surface of fiber BFC to resist the nonspecific protein adsorption in a complex biological environment. After implantation, the fiber BFC can achieve a stable device/tissue interface, along with a negligible immune response. The fiber BFC has first realized power generation in the mouse brain for over a month, exhibiting its promising prospect as an energy‐harvesting device in vivo.
Atom‐Resolved Investigation on Dynamic Nucleation and Growth of Platinum Nanocrystals
Authors: Ye Huanyu , Yang Feng , Sun Yinghui , Wang Rongming
Published: March 2022

Understanding the mechanism of nucleation and growth of nanocrystals is crucial for designing and regulating the structure and properties of nanocrystals. However, the process from molecules to nanocrystals remains unclear because of the rapid and complicated dynamics of evolution under reaction conditions. Here, the complete evolution process of solid‐phase chloroplatinic acid during the electron beam irradiation triggered reduction and nucleation of platinum nanocrystals is recorded. Aberration‐corrected environmental transmission electron microscopy is used for direct visualization of the dynamic evolution from H2PtCl6 to Pt nanocrystals at the atomic scale, including the formation and growth of amorphous clusters, crystallization, and growth of clusters, and the ripening of Pt nanocrystals. At the first two stages, there exists a critical size of ≈2.0 nm, which represents the start of crystallization. Crystallization from the center and density fluctuation are observed in the second stage of the crystallization of a few clusters with a size obviously larger than the critical size. The work provides valuable information to understand the kinetics of the early stage of nanocrystal nucleation and crystallization at atomic scale.
Experimental study, modeling, and reliability analysis of impact resistance of micro steel fiber‐reinforced concrete modified with nano silica
Authors: Haruna Sadi I. , Zhu Han , Shao Jianwen
Published: March 2022

This paper presents the experimental, statistical modeling, and reliability analysis of impact resistance of micro steel fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) incorporated with nano silica (NS) using a drop‐weight impact test. U‐shaped concrete specimens were developed for the experimental work. The result showed that the combined effect of micro steel fiber (SF) and NS led to significant improvement of impact resistance of concrete mixtures, and lower ductility ratios were obtained for specimens with high SF and NS content. A common failure pattern was observed for all the concrete specimens. The response surface methodology models developed to predict the impact resistance of FRC‐NS mixtures showed a high degree of correlation. Due to the variation in the drop‐weight impact test' result, the Weibull distribution (WD) function was employed for advance analysis, and the result revealed that the probabilistic distribution of first crack strength (N1) and failure strength (N2) follows the two‐parameter WD.
Complex Coacervation and Compartmentalized Conversion of Prebiotically Relevant Metabolites**
Authors: Smokers Iris B. A. , van Haren Merlijn H. I. , Lu Tiemei , Spruijt Evan
Published: March 2022

Metabolism and compartmentalization are two of life's most central elements. Constructing synthetic assemblies based on prebiotically relevant molecules that combine these elements can provide insight into the requirements for the formation of life‐like protocells from abiotic building blocks. In this work, we show that a wide variety of small anionic metabolites can form complex coacervate protocells with oligoarginine (R10) by phase separation. The coacervate stability can be rationalized by the molecular structure of the metabolites, and we show that three negative charges for carboxylates, or two negative charges complemented with an unsaturated moiety for phosphates and sulfates is sufficient for phase separation. The metabolites remain reactive after compartmentalization, and we show that protometabolic reactions can induce coacervate formation. The resulting coacervates can localize other metabolites and enhance their conversion. Finally, reactions of compartmentalized metabolites can also alter the physicochemical properties of the coacervates and ultimately lead to protocell dissolution. These results reveal the intricate interplay between (proto)metabolic reactions and coacervate compartments, and show that coacervates are excellent candidates for metabolically active protocells.
Biosensors and Chemical Sensors for Healthcare Monitoring: A Review
Authors: Arakawa Takahiro , Dao Dzung Viet , Mitsubayashi Kohji
Published: March 2022

Biosensors and chemical sensors for healthcare applications are garnering interest due to their potential to provide continuous and real‐time physiological information, chemical information, and noninvasive measurements of biochemical markers in human biofluids, such as tears, saliva, sweat, interstitial fluid, and human volatiles. Recent developments have focused on electrochemical biosensors and monitoring of metabolites, proteins, chemicals, and bacteria. The measurement of biophysical quantities of the human body has been studied in healthcare and medicine. Many flexible, wearable, and detachable sensors have been developed and commercialized to monitor relevant parameters in sports, healthcare, and medicine. Here, we introduce many challenges regarding the integration of sensors and biosensors into the monitoring of biological and chemical information for the internet of things (IoT) in healthcare. IoT sensors are set to improve quality of life (QoL) and living standards. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Impact of non‐binding FDA guidances on primary endpoint selection in Alzheimer's disease trials
Authors: Yu Jeffrey C. , Hlávka Jakub P. , Joe Elizabeth , Richmond Frances J. , Lakdawalla Darius N.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s guidances help describe the agency's current thinking on regulatory issues and serve as a means of informal policymaking that is non‐binding. This study examines the impact of two guidance documents for Alzheimer's disease (AD) trials. The first guidance in 2013 encouraged the use of cognitive/functional endpoints, while the second in 2018 modified such recommendation.

Methods

Using pivotal trial data, we applied a regression discontinuity in time (RDiT) framework to examine trialist response to these guidance documents. Results were stratified by disease‐modifying therapy (DMT) status, and controlled for disease staging, FDA registration status, and trial phase.

Results

Among AD DMT trials, annual use of cognitive/functional composite endpoints significantly increased after the 2013 guidance (+12.9%, P < .001), and significantly decreased after the 2018 guidance (–19.9%, P = .022).

Discussion

Although guidance documents do not set new legal standards or impose binding requirements, our findings indicate they are broadly followed by AD trialists.
Evoking empathy—An overlooked role of animal statues in zoos
Authors: Wilson Jennifer K. , Nageotte Nichole L. , Pletcher Nette
Published: March 2022

Empathy towards animals is a known influential factor in the likelihood for individuals to engage in conservation behavior, so it is of significant interest that the zoo community considers how to evoke constructive empathetic responses in their guests. To date, much of the research that has been conducted on empathy in zoos has focused on live animals, but are we overlooking a potential instrument of empathy‐building? Based on observations made during an evaluation of guest interactions with a bronze animal statue, this paper will explore the potential for static, lifelike animal statues to serve as conduits for empathy‐building and make a strong argument for the much needed research in this area.
Extracellular vesicles-associated tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs): biogenesis, biological functions, and their role as potential biomarkers in human diseases
Authors: Weng Qiuyan , Wang Yao , Xie Yaoyao , Yu Xiuchong , Zhang Shuangshuang , Ge Jiaxin , Li Zhe , Ye Guoliang , Guo Junming
Published: March 2022

Traditionally, transfer RNAs (tRNAs) specifically decoded messenger RNA (mRNA) and participated in protein translation. tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), also known as tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are generated by the specific cleavage of pre- and mature tRNAs and are a class of newly defined functional small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs). Following the different cleavage positions of precursor or mature tRNA, tRFs are classified into seven types, 5′-tRNA half, 3′-tRNA half, tRF-1, 5′U-tRF, 3′-tRF, 5′-tRF, and i-tRF. It has been demonstrated that tRFs have a diverse range of biological functions in cellular processes, which include inhibiting protein translation, modulating stress response, regulating gene expression, and involvement in cell cycles and epigenetic inheritance. Emerging evidences have indicated that tRFs in extracellular vesicles (EVs) seem to act as regulatory molecules in various cellular processes and play essential roles in cell-to-cell communication. Furthermore, the dysregulation of EV-associated tRFs has been associated with the occurrence and progression of a variety of cancers and they can serve as novel potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. In this review, the biogenesis and classification of tRFs are summarized, and the biological functions of EV-associated tRFs and their roles as potential biomarkers in human diseases are discussed.
Characteristics of adults with type 1 diabetes and treatment-resistant problematic hypoglycaemia: a baseline analysis from the HARPdoc RCT
Authors: Jacob Peter , Potts Laura , Maclean Rory H. , de Zoysa Nicole , Rogers Helen , Gonder-Frederick Linda , Smith Emma L. , Kariyawasam Dulmini , Brooks Augustin , Heller Simon , Toschi Elena , Kendall Mike , Bakolis Ioannis , Choudhary Pratik , Goldsmith Kimberley , Amiel Stephanie A. ,   for the HARPdoc study group
Published: March 2022

Aims/hypothesis

Problematic hypoglycaemia still complicates insulin therapy for some with type 1 diabetes. This study describes baseline emotional, cognitive and behavioural characteristics in participants in the HARPdoc trial, which evaluates a novel intervention for treatment-resistant problematic hypoglycaemia.

Methods

We documented a cross-sectional baseline description of 99 adults with type 1 diabetes and problematic hypoglycaemia despite structured education in flexible insulin therapy. The following measures were included: Hypoglycaemia Fear Survey II (HFS-II); Attitudes to Awareness of Hypoglycaemia questionnaire (A2A); Hospital Anxiety and Depression Index; and Problem Areas In Diabetes. k-mean cluster analysis was applied to HFS-II and A2A factors. Data were compared with a peer group without problematic hypoglycaemia, propensity-matched for age, sex and diabetes duration (n = 81).

Results

The HARPdoc cohort had long-duration diabetes (mean ± SD 35.8 ± 15.4 years), mean ± SD Gold score 5.3 ± 1.2 and a median (IQR) of 5.0 (2.0–12.0) severe hypoglycaemia episodes in the previous year. Most individuals had been offered technology and 49.5% screened positive for anxiety (35.0% for depression and 31.3% for high diabetes distress). The cohort segregated into two clusters: in one (n = 68), people endorsed A2A cognitive barriers to hypoglycaemia avoidance, with low fear on HFS-II factors; in the other (n = 29), A2A factor scores were low and HFS-II high. Anxiety and depression scores were significantly lower in the comparator group.

Conclusions/interpretation

The HARPdoc protocol successfully recruited people with treatment-resistant problematic hypoglycaemia. The participants had high anxiety and depression. Most of the cohort endorsed unhelpful health beliefs around hypoglycaemia, with low fear of hypoglycaemia, a combination that may contribute to persistence of problematic hypoglycaemia and may be a target for adjunctive psychological therapies.

Graphical abstract
Ultra-processed foods and obesity and adiposity parameters among children and adolescents: a systematic review
Authors: De Amicis Ramona , Mambrini Sara Paola , Pellizzari Marta , Foppiani Andrea , Bertoli Simona , Battezzati Alberto , Leone Alessandro
Published: March 2022

Purpose

According to the NOVA classification, ultra-processed foods are products made through physical, biological and chemical processes and typically with multiple ingredients and additives, in which whole foods are mostly or entirely absent. From a nutritional point of view, they are typically energy-dense foods high in fat, sugar, and salt and low in fiber. The association between the consumption of ultra-processed food and obesity and adiposity measurements has been established in adults. However, the situation remains unclear in children and adolescents.

Methods

We carried out a systematic review, in which we summarize observational studies investigating the association between the consumption of ultra-processed food, as defined by NOVA classification, and obesity and adiposity parameters among children and adolescents. A literature search was performed using PUBMED and Web of Science databases for relevant articles published prior to May 2021.

Results

Ten studies, five longitudinal and five cross-sectional, mainly conducted in Brazil, were included in this review. Four longitudinal studies in children with a follow-up longer than 4 years found a positive association between the consumption of ultra-processed food and obesity and adiposity parameters, whereas cross-sectional studies failed to find an association.

Conclusion

These data suggest that a consistent intake of ultra-processed foods over time is needed to impact nutritional status and body composition of children and adolescents. Further well-designed prospective studies worldwide are needed to confirm these findings considering country-related differences in dietary habits and food production technologies.
Non-surgical treatment for adult spinal deformity: results of an intensive combined physical and psychological programme for patients with adult spinal deformity and chronic low back pain—a treatment-based cohort study
Authors: Hoevenaars Evelien H. W. , Beekhuizen Michiel , O’Dowd John , Spruit Maarten , van Hooff Miranda L.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

No evidence-based treatment exists for adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Aim of this study: evaluate a combined physical and psychological programme (CPPP) for ASD patients with CLBP and to compare this with a non-ASD-cohort with CLBP.

Methods

Data were extracted from the database of CLBP-patients for whom surgery is not an option and completed CPPP. Two cohorts were selected: an ASD-cohort (n = 80) based on a Cobb angle of > 10° and a consecutive age- and gender-matched non-ASD-cohort (n = 240). Primary outcome: functional status (Oswestry Disability Index; ODI). Secondary outcomes: pain intensity, self-efficacy and quality of life. Assessments: pre and post treatment, one-month and one-year follow-up (FU). Clinical relevance: minimal important clinical change (MCIC; ODI 10 points), patient acceptable symptom state (PASS; ODI ≤ 22).

Results

Demographics ASD-cohort: 79% female, mean age 50.9 (± 14.1) years, mean CLBP duration 15.5 (± 12.5) years, mean Cobb angle 21.4 (± 9.4)°. Non-ASD-cohort: not significantly different. Both cohorts improved in functional status (F[1,318] = 142.982, p < .001; r = 0.31). The ASD-cohort improved from mean ODI 39.5(± 12.0) at baseline to mean ODI 31.8(± 16.5) at one-year FU. Clinical relevance: 51% of the ASD patients reached MCIC and 33% reached a PASS. An interaction effect is shown between time and both cohorts (F[1,318] = 8.2, p = .004; r = 0.03); however, not clinically relevant. All secondary outcomes: improvement at one-year FU.

Conclusion

This is the first study showing beneficial outcomes of a non-surgical treatment in selected ASD patients with longstanding CLBP. Improvement is shown in functional status, and appeared equivalent to the non-ASD cohort.

Level of Evidence 1

Diagnostic: individual cross-sectional studies with the consistently applied reference standard and blinding.
Are Special Biserial Algebras Homologically Tame?
Authors: Ringel Claus Michael
Published: March 2022

Birge Huisgen-Zimmermann calls a finite dimensional algebra homologically tame provided the little and the big finitistic dimension are equal and finite. The question formulated in the title has been discussed by her in the paper “Representation-tame algebras need not be homologically tame”, by looking for any r ≥ 1 at a sequence of algebras Λm with big finitistic dimension r + m. As we will show, also the little finitistic dimension of Λm is r + m. It follows that contrary to her assertion, all the algebras Λm are homologically tame.
Online peer-to-peer lending platform and supply chain finance decisions and strategies
Authors: Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Safaei Aria Zaker , Bhattacharya Arijit , Amjadian Alireza
Published: March 2022

Online peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform is an emerging FinTech business model that establishes a link between investors and recipients of capital in supply chains (SCs). Businesses face capital constraints impacting directly on their final product price and demand. This article studies optimal decisions and operational strategies in a logistics network considering two capital-constrained manufacturers who produce products of different qualities and sell them to a retailer having deterministic demand over a specific period. The high quality product manufacturer borrows capital through an online P2P lending platform with a service fee, while the low quality product manufacturer pre-sells products for competing with the high quality product manufacturer. In this study, we find optimal prices of the SC participants, service rate of the online P2P platform and percentage of the pre-ordering quantity of the retailer. We analyse optimal Stackelberg and Nash equilibrium of the SC participants. We find that an increase in the amount of opportunity cost will cause a decrease in the pre-ordering quantity of the retailer affecting the SC profit in numerous ways. The online P2P lending platform should consider the amount of the retailer’s target profit in determining the platform’s service rate. We posit some practical insights based on our numerical study and observations for SC managers enabling them to take appropriate measures about their optimal strategies according to the networks’ existing economic conditions.
Organizations as Spaces for Caring: A Case of an Anti-trafficking Organization in India
Authors: D’Souza Roscoe Conan , Martí Ignasi
Published: March 2022

Prior research has shown that human trafficking has multiple facets and is deeply enmeshed in societies around the world. Two central challenges for anti-trafficking organizations pertain to confronting systemic injustices and establishing caring organizations for survivors to start the process of healing and restoration. Analyzing the work of an anti-trafficking organization, International Sanctuary (ISanctuary) in Mumbai, we seek to elucidate how a space for caring for trafficking survivors is constructed in a largely non-egalitarian and unjust context. We contribute to discussions on how caring infrastructures are possibly developed so that they do not write off (pre)existing gendered and in-egalitarian social structures and how they shape individual biographies. We also highlight how the specific, situated context—defined by those very structures—shapes and influences the transformative potential of care interventions.