bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Phase Transition Oxide/Graphene Interface for Incident‐Angle‐Agile, Ultrabroadband, and Deep THz Modulation
Authors: Zhu Hongfu , Li Jiang , Du Lianghui , Huang Wanxia , Liu Jingbo , Zhou Jinhao , Chen Yuanfu , Das Sujit , Shi Qiwu , Zhu Liguo , Liu Cangli
Published: November 2020

Although plenty of functional materials have been explored to dynamically control the terahertz (THz) transmission, the limits in modulation depth, operation bandwidth, or angle‐agile characteristics hinder their applications in highly active THz devices. Here, a 2D/3D (graphene/phase transition oxide VO2) interface is demonstrated for unprecedented high‐efficiency modulation of THz waves with incident‐angle‐agile and ultrabroadband. An impedance matching state can be met at the graphene/VO2 interface by adjusting the stacked graphene layers, which leads to a minimal terahertz reflection amplitude. Then the interfacial impedance can be changed continuously via the semiconductor–metal phase transition of VO2 and achieve a THz switching. Based on this mechanism, this heterostructure demonstrates giant THz average amplitude modulation of 93%, 94%, and 96% in 0.3–1.5 THz at the incident angle of 35°, 48°, and 53°, respectively. Moreover, the corresponding insertion loss is only −7.4, −4.1, and −6.5, which is much lower than most of the present THz modulation. These coupling phenomena and functions arising from the integration of 2D material and 3D phase transition oxide film broaden the previous materials system for dynamic controlling of THz wave, and would promote advanced THz smart devices for practical applications.
Thiolate‐Protected Single‐Atom Alloy Nanoclusters: Correlation between Electronic Properties and Catalytic Activities
Authors: Walsh Andrew G. , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2020

Due to their interesting chemical and optical properties, metal nanoclusters are used in various catalytic reactions and in energy conversion. By incorporating thiolate‐protecting ligands, their size and composition can be tuned. Doping these nanoclusters to form single‐atom alloy (SAA) nanoclusters is shown to further enhance these properties as a result from the synergy between the dopant and host atoms. In addition to their optical and chemical properties, SAA nanoclusters also have interesting electronic properties. However, these properties are often underdiscussed when studying SAA nanoclusters. This review provides an overview of representative studies done on the in‐depth understanding of the electronic properties and catalytic activities of Ag‐based and Au‐based thiolate‐protected SAA nanoclusters. The use of density functional theory (DFT), X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy are employed to correlate the changes in charge states of thiolate‐protected SAA nanoclusters with their superior catalytic activity versus monometallic nanoclusters. DFT, UV–vis spectroscopy, and voltammetric methods link the changes in molecular energy levels of thiolate‐protected SAA nanoclusters to their enhanced catalytic performance over monometallic nanoclusters.
A simple cultivar suitability index for low‐pH agricultural soils
Authors: Fordyce Simon , Jones Clain A. , Dahlhausen Sally J. , Lachowiec Jennifer , Eberly Jed O. , Sherman Jamie D. , McPhee Kevin E. , Carr Patrick M.
Published: November 2020

Planting wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars that carry the aluminum (Al) resistance gene TaAlmt1 is a potentially lower cost alternative to lime applications in acidic agricultural soils. However, the relative importance of TaAlmt1 expression and adaptedness (to regional environmental conditions) for preserving grain yield in acidic soils is not well understood. Adaptation trials were established in low‐pH soils to compare lime‐amended (YL) and unamended grain yield (YU) among regionally adapted spring wheat cultivars with and without TaAlmt1. Averaged across YL and YU (YAVG), yield of adapted TaAlmt1 carriers was similar to adapted noncarriers (p = .939) but greater than nonadapted noncarriers (p = .024). Soil pH‐driven spatial heterogeneity appears to inflate yield coefficients of variation and the probability of committing type II errors in cultivar yield comparisons. Our results support the use of YAVG as a suitability index and decision support tool for cultivar selection in acid‐affected soils.
Exploring Community Narratives of Violence Against Women among Domestic Violence Responders in Guam
Authors: Meno Camarin G. , Allen Nicole E.
Published: November 2020

In the Pacific Island of Guam, recent high‐profile incidents of violence against Indigenous Chamoru women have sparked growing local concerns regarding rates of domestic violence and sexual assault. These and other indicators of elevated rates of violence against women in Guam are discordant with historical narratives of gender egalitarianism and community‐based sanctions regarding violence against women in Chamoru culture. Using qualitative interviews with responders to violence against women in Guam, this study investigated current community narratives surrounding violence against women. Findings highlighted the centrality of culture in participant understandings of violence against women, particularly the complex interplay of themes of Indigenous cultural loss and desire for revitalization alongside a preference for Western cultural ideals. Curiously, in spite of a strong cultural framework in participant understandings of violence against women, few participants framed their professional response in cultural terms, other than to describe “culturally competent” approaches for commonly scapegoated communities in Guam. Study findings highlight the need for a closer analysis of culture in understandings of and responses to violence against women in Indigenous communities.
Multi‐Modal Chiral Superstructures in Self‐Assembled Anthracene‐Terminal Amino Acids with Predictable and Adjustable Chiroptical Activities and Color Evolution
Authors: Wang Zhuoer , Li Yingzhou , Hao Aiyou , Xing Pengyao
Published: November 2020

Deep understanding of structure–property relationship between packing of chiral building units and their chiroptical behaviors would significantly facilitate the rational design and fabrication of the emerging chiroptical materials such as circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) emissive materials. In this paper, we unveil the universal existence of supramolecular tilt helical superstructures in self‐assembled π‐conjugated amino acid derivatives. A series of coded amino acid methyl esters were conjugated to anthracene segments at N‐terminus, which afforded 21 and 31 symmetry supramolecular tilt chirality in solid‐states. Helical assemblies enabled diversified Cotton effects and CPL performances, which were in accordance with the tilted chirality between anthracene segments. Such correlation shows fine universality, whereby the chiroptical prediction could be realized. Furthermore, on top of charge‐transfer complexation, manipulation of CPL emission colors and handedness were realized.
Pfad‐ und Längenkontrolle von supramolekularen Polymeren im wässrigen Medium mittels eines Wasserstoffbrückenschlosses
Authors: Helmers Ingo , Ghosh Goutam , Albuquerque Rodrigo Q. , Fernández Gustavo
Published: November 2020

Die Programmierung der Selbstorganisation von π‐konjugierten Systemen in Nanostrukturen definierter Dimensionen ist eine Voraussetzung für die Herstellung funktioneller Materialien. Es wurde eine hochpräzise Kontrolle über die Selbstorganisationspfade sowie die Faserlänge eines amphiphilen BODIPY‐Farbstoffs in wässrigen Medien durch Nutzung einer schaltbaren Wasserstoffbrücke erreicht. Das Vorhandensein einer (2‐Hydroxyethyl)amid‐Gruppe am BODIPY ermöglicht verschiedene Arten von intra‐ oder intermolekularen Wasserstoffbrücken, was eine Konkurrenz zwischen kinetisch gesteuerten scheibenförmigen H‐Typ‐Aggregaten und thermodynamisch kontrollierten J‐Typ‐Fasern in Wasser induziert. Die hohe Stabilität des kinetischen Zustandes, der vom hydrophoben Effekt dominiert wird, spiegelt sich in der langsamen Umwandlung in das thermodynamische Produkt wider. Diese Verzögerungszeit kann jedoch durch Zugabe von Keimen aus der thermodynamischen Spezies unterdrückt werden, wodurch supramolekulare Polymere mit einstellbarer Länge in Wasser für mehrere Zyklen erhalten werden können.
Bioorthogonal Activation of Dual Catalytic and Anti‐Cancer Activities of Organogold(I) Complexes in Living Systems
Authors: Long Yan , Cao Bei , Xiong Xiaolin , Chan Albert S. C. , Sun Raymond Wai‐Yin , Zou Taotao
Published: November 2020

Controllably activating the bio‐reactivity of metal complexes in living systems is challenging but highly desirable because it can minimize off‐target bindings and improve spatiotemporal specificity. Herein, we report a new bioorthogonal activation approach by employing Pd(II)‐triggered transmetallation reactions to conditionally activate the bio‐reactivity of NHC–Au(I)–phenylacetylide complexes (1 a) in vitro and in vivo. A combination of1H NMR, LC‐MS, DFT calculation and fluorescence screening assays reveals that1 adisplays a reasonable stability against biological thiols, but its phenylacetylide ligand can be efficiently transferred to Pd(II), leading to in situ formation of labile NHC–Au(I) species that is catalytically active inside living cells and zebrafish, and can meanwhile effectively suppress the activity of thioredoxin reductase, potently inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and efficiently suppress angiogenesis in zebrafish models.
Einblicke in die Topologie und die Bildung einer echten ppσ‐Bindung: Experimentelle und berechnete Elektronendichte im monoanionischen Trichlor [Cl3]−
Authors: Keil Helena , Sonnenberg Karsten , Müller Carsten , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Beckers Helmut , Riedel Sebastian , Stalke Dietmar
Published: November 2020

Bisher wurden in mehreren Publikationen die Bindungsverhältnisse in Polyhalogeniden auf theoretischer Basis diskutiert. Insbesondere das Trichlor‐Monoanion ist von großem Interesse, da es aufgrund seiner Symmetrie zwei gleich lange Cl‐Cl‐Bindungen aufweisen sollte. Abgesehen von Matrix‐Isolationsstudien wurde bisher jedoch nur von asymmetrischen Trichlor‐Anionen berichtet. Hier untersuchen wir die Trichlor‐Monoanionen im (2‐Chlorethyl)trimethylammoniumtrichlorid [NMe3EtCl][Cl3],1, Tetramethylammoniumtrichlorid [NMe4][Cl3],2, und Tetrapropylammoniumtrichlorid [NnPr4][Cl3],3. Kristallstrukturen aus hochaufgelösten Röntgenbeugungsdaten und experimentelle Ladungsdichteuntersuchungen, unterstützt durch periodische quantenchemische Rechnungen, geben Aufschluss über den Einfluss der kristallinen Umgebung auf die Struktur dieser [Cl3]−‐Anionen sowie über den Verlauf der Bindungsbildung zwischen einem Chlormolekül und einem Cl−‐Anion.
Metal‐Organic‐Framework‐Derived Cobalt‐Doped Carbon Material for Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Liu Anmin , Liang Xingyou , Yang Qiyue , Ren Xuefeng , Gao Mengfan , Yang Yanan , Ma Tingli
Published: November 2020

Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR), as a potential alternative to industrial ammonia synthesis (Haber‐Bosch method), can achieve “green” and sustainable ammonia production under environmental conditions. However, the NRR process is still limited by the slow cleavage of the N≡N triple bond and the existence of a competitive hydrogen evolution reaction. For this reason, many researchers have studied the construction and synthesis of high‐efficiency nitrogen reduction electrocatalysts. Herein, a Co‐based metal‐organic framework (ZIF‐67) was used to prepare Co/C‐900 composites through high‐temperature pyrolysis (900 °C) for ammonia synthesis under environmental conditions. The Co/C‐900 catalysts exhibited excellent NRR performance, with a high NH3 yield of 4.66 μmol cm−2 h−1 at −0.3 V (vs. RHE) and a faradaic efficiency of 11.53 % in 0.1 M potassium hydroxide. This work provides a simple strategy for the design of porous, non‐noble‐metal electrocatalysts for electrochemical NRR.
Cyclic Octamer of Hydroxyl‐functionalized Cations with Net Charge Q=+8e Kinetically Stabilized by a ‘Molecular Island’ of Cooperative Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Philipp J. K. , Fritsch S. , Ludwig R.
Published: November 2020

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Ralf Ludwig at the University of Rostock. The image shows the calculated cyclic octamer of hydroxyl‐functionalized cations, being prominent constituents of ionic liquids. Strong cooperative hydrogen bonds overcome like‐charge repulsion and prevent the cluster from Coulomb explosion. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202000681.
Pharmacology‐Guided Rule‐Based Adaptive Dose Escalation in First‐in‐Human Studies
Authors: van Hoogdalem Ewoud‐Jan , van Iersel Mattheus (Thijs) , Winter Erica , Constant John , Kappler Martin
Published: November 2020

First‐in‐human (FIH) studies typically progress through cohorts of fixed, standard size throughout the escalation scheme. This work presents and tests a pharmacology‐guided rule‐based adaptive dose escalation design that aims at making "best use" of participants in early clinical drug evaluation; it is paper based, not requiring real‐time access to computational methods. The design minimizes the number of participants exposed to dose levels with low likelihood of being therapeutically relevant. Using criteria based on dose‐limiting adverse event rate and on target exposure or target pharmacodynamics, the design increases the sample size when approaching the dose range of potential clinical relevance. The adaptive escalation design was retrospectively tested on actual data from a sample of 40 recently executed FIH studies with novel small and large molecules, and it was evaluated by simulating trials with three compounds with different therapeutic windows, i.e., representing a promising, unacceptable, and dubious profile. In retrospective evaluation of the adaptive escalation design, none of the cases overshot the actually reported top dose; one case resulted in a top dose that was within 20% under the estimated maximum tolerated dose in the original study. The median reduction of total number of participants per study was 38%. Trial simulations confirmed the retrospective evaluation, showing a similar performance of the adaptive escalation design compared with the conventional 6 + 2 design, at a reduced study size for compounds with a presumed acceptable therapeutic window. The adaptive escalation design was shown to make "best use" of participants in FIH studies without compromising safety.
Addressing Social Determinants of Liver Disease During the COVID‐19 Pandemic and Beyond: A Call to Action
Authors: Kardashian Ani , Wilder Julius , Terrault Norah A. , Price Jennifer C.
Published: November 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has exposed healthcare inequities in the USA and highlighted the importance of social conditions in shaping the health of persons. In the field of hepatology, social determinants of health (SDOH) are closely linked to disparities in liver disease prevalence, outcomes, and access to treatment. The economic disruption and physical distancing policies brought on by the COVID‐19 pandemic have further exacerbated these disparities, and may have long‐lasting health consequences for marginalized patients with chronic liver disease. There are several ways that hepatology providers can bridge the gap in health equity through addressing SDOH, extending from the individual to the community and societal levels. Interventions at the individual level include implementation of systematic screening for social barriers in our hepatology practices to identify gaps in the care cascade. At the community and societal levels, interventions include creating collaborative partnerships with public health workers to expand healthcare access to the community, increasing funding for research investigating the association of SDOH, health disparities, and liver disease, engaging in advocacy to support policy reform that tackles the upstream social determinants, and addressing racism and implicit bias. As hepatology practices adapt to the “new normal,” now is the time for us to address our patients’ social needs within the context of healthcare delivery and reimagine ways in which to provide care to best serve our most vulnerable patients with liver disease in the COVID‐19 era and beyond.
Common gene variants within 3′‐untranslated regions as modulators of multiple myeloma risk and survival
Authors: Melaiu Ombretta , Macauda Angelica , Sainz Juan , Calvetti Diego , Facioni Maria Sole , Maccari Giuseppe , ter Horst Rob , Netea Mihai G. , Li Yang , Grząśko Norbert , Moreno Victor , Jurczyszyn Artur , Jerez Andrés , Watek Marzena , Varkonyi Judit , Garcia‐Sanz Ramon , Kruszewski Marcin , Dudziński Marek , Kadar Katalin , Jacobsen Svend Erik Hove , Mazur Grzegorz , Andersen Vibeke , Rybicka Malwina , Zawirska Daria , Raźny Malgorzata , Zaucha Jan Maciej , Ostrovsky Olga , Iskierka‐Jazdzewska Elzbieta , Reis Rui Manuel , Stępień Anna , Beider Katia , Nagler Arnon , Druzd‐Sitek Agnieszka , Marques Herlander , Martìnez‐Lopez Joaquin , Lesueur Fabienne , Avet‐Loiseau Hervé , Vangsted Annette Juul , Krawczyk‐Kulis Malgorzata , Butrym Aleksandra , Jamroziak Krzysztof , Dumontet Charles , Vogel Ulla , Rymko Marcin , Pelosini Matteo , Subocz Edyta , Szombath Gergely , Sarasquete Maria Eugenia , Silvestri Roberto , Morani Federica , Landi Stefano , Campa Daniele , Canzian Federico , Gemignani Federica
Published: November 2020

We evaluated the association between germline genetic variants located within the 3′‐untranlsated region (polymorphic 3′UTR, ie, p3UTR) of candidate genes involved in multiple myeloma (MM). We performed a case‐control study within the International Multiple Myeloma rESEarch (IMMEnSE) consortium, consisting of 3056 MM patients and 1960 controls recruited from eight countries. We selected p3UTR of six genes known to act in different pathways relevant in MM pathogenesis, namely KRAS (rs12587 and rs7973623), VEGFA (rs10434), SPP1 (rs1126772), IRF4 (rs12211228) and IL10 (rs3024496). We found that IL10‐rs3024496 was associated with increased risk of developing MM and with a worse overall survival of MM patients. The variant allele was assayed in a vector expressing eGFP chimerized with the IL10 3′‐UTR and it was found functionally active following transfection in human myeloma cells. In this experiment, the A‐allele caused a lower expression of the reporter gene and this was also in agreement with the in vivo expression of mRNA measured in whole blood as reported in the GTEx portal. Overall, these data are suggestive of an effect of the IL10‐rs3024496 SNP on the regulation of IL10 mRNA expression and it could have clinical implications for better characterization of MM patients in terms of prognosis.
Rapid improvement of a critically ill obstetric patient with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection after administration of convalescent plasma
Authors: Magallanes‐Garza Gerardo I. , Valdez‐Alatorre Carolina , Dávila‐González Daniel , Martínez‐Reséndez Michel F. , Sánchez‐Salazar Sergio S. , Castilleja‐Leal Fernando , Cardona‐Huerta Servando
Published: November 2020

Synopsis

Convalescent plasma may improve outcomes in critically ill pregnant women with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection who have rapid deterioration of respiratory function and seronegative status.
In vitro temporal HIF‐mediated deposition of osteochondrogenic matrix governed by hypoxia and osteogenic factors synergy
Authors: Calejo Isabel , Costa‐Almeida Raquel , Reis Rui L. , Gomes Manuela E.
Published: November 2020

Musculoskeletal interfaces are naturally hypoxic. An understanding of key interactions occurring between different cell populations and their environment is critical for native tissue recapitulation. Here, an enthesis coculture model (preosteoblasts and tendon cells) was used to understand the influence of hypoxia (5% O2) and osteogenic medium (OM) supplementation in cells’ phenotype modulation. In single cultures, preosteoblasts were found to undergo osteogenic impairment, while tendon cells underwent a maturation process through extracellular matrix (ECM) rescue. When in co‐culture, hypoxia and osteoinduction promoted a temporal chondro/osteogenic pathway activation, as observed by an early deposition of cartilaginous ECM associated with HIF1A stabilization and RUNX2 activation, and later hypertrophic differentiation resulting from HIF2A translocation and SOX9 activation. Moreover, the presence of OM under hypoxia was shown to influence the extracellular ROS/HIF1A interplay. Overall, this study revealed a link between biochemical factors and cell–cell crosstalk, providing a molecular framework for hypoxic control and modulation of cells’ fate toward enthesis‐like phenotypes.
Macrophage inhibitory cytokine‐1 promotes angiogenesis by eliciting the GFRAL‐mediated endothelial cell signaling
Authors: Lee Jaeseob , Jin Young‐June , Lee Moon‐Sung , Kim Young‐Myeong , Lee Hansoo
Published: November 2020

Macrophage inhibitory cytokine‐1 (MIC‐1) is a cytokine with pleotropic actions and its expression is markedly increased by inflammation and cardiac injury and in cancers. In particular, MIC‐1 production after cardiac ischemia injury is associated with enhanced cardiac angiogenesis as well as myocardial protection. However, it remains uncertain whether MIC‐1 itself has proangiogenic activity. In this study, we tried to determine the precise role of MIC‐1 in physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Human microvessel endothelial cells responded to MIC‐1 with enhanced angiogenic behaviors. Employing various angiogenesis assays, MIC‐1 was found to promote vessel formation and development with a potency similar to that of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). MIC‐1 transgenic (Tg) mice also displayed enhanced neovascularization in both developing embryos and neonatal mouse retinas, compared with wild‐type mice. Furthermore, endothelial cells (ECs) isolated from MIC‐1 Tg mouse lung exhibited higher angiogenic potential than ECs from wild‐type lung. MIC‐1‐induced angiogenesis was also observed in the recovery or healing processes of injuries such as hindlimb ischemia and skin wounds in mice. However, unlike VEGF, MIC‐1 induced neither endothelial inflammation nor increased vascular permeability. In ECs, the MIC‐1 signal exerted proangiogenic actions via the MEK/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase‐ and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt‐dependent pathways. Notably, these MIC‐1 signaling events in ECs were abrogated by small interfering RNA‐mediated knockdown of GFRAL, suggesting that GFRAL is an EC receptor for MIC‐1. In summary, we here show a novel role of MIC‐1 as a potent EC activator, which promotes both normal and injury‐related angiogenesis.
Modeling the photoinactivation and transport of somatic and F‐specific coliphages at a Great Lakes beach
Authors: Safaie Ammar , Weiskerger Chelsea J. , Nguyen Tuan D. , Acrey Brad , Zepp Richard G. , Molina Marirosa , Cyterski Michael , Whelan Gene , Pachepsky Yakov A. , Phanikumar Mantha S.
Published: November 2020

Fecal indicator organisms (FIOs), such as Escherichia coli and enterococci, are often used as surrogates of contamination in the context of beach management; however, bacteriophages may be more reliable indicators than FIO due to their similarity to viral pathogens in terms of size and persistence in the environment. In the past, mechanistic modeling of environmental contamination has focused on FIOs, with virus and bacteriophage modeling efforts remaining limited. In this paper, we describe the development and application of a fate and transport model of somatic and F‐specific coliphages for the Washington Park beach in Lake Michigan, which is affected by riverine outputs from the nearby Trail Creek. A three‐dimensional model of coliphage transport and photoinactivation was tested and compared with a previously reported E. coli fate and transport model. The light‐based inactivation of the phages was modeled using organism‐specific action spectra. Results indicate that the coliphage models outperformed the E. coli model in terms of reliably predicting observed E. coli/coliphage concentrations at the beach. This is possibly due to the presence of additional E. coli sources that were not accounted for in the modeling. The coliphage models can be used to test hypotheses about potential sources and their behavior and for predictive modeling.
Synergistic effect of electromagnetic fields and nanomagnetic particles on osteogenesis through calcium channels and p‐ERK signaling
Authors: Kim Yu‐Mi , Lim Han‐Moi , Lee Eun‐Chul , Ki Ga‐Eun , Seo Young‐Kwon
Published: November 2020

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are widely used in a number of cell therapies and bone disorder treatments, and nanomagnetic particles (NMPs) also promote cell activity. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effects of EMFs and NMPs on the osteogenesis of the human Saos‐2 osteoblast cell line and in a rat calvarial defect model. The Saos‐2 cells and critical‐size calvarial defects of the rats were exposed to EMF (1 mT, 45 Hz, 8 h/day) with or without Fe3O4NMPs. Biocompatibility was evaluated with MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) assays. This analysis showed that NMP and EMF did not induce cell toxicity. Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction indicated that the osteogenesis‐related markers were highly expressed in the NMP‐incorporated Saos‐2 cells after exposure to EMF. Also, the expression of gene‐encoding proteins involved in calcium channels was activated and the calcium concentration of the NMP‐incorporated + EMF‐exposed group was increased compared with the control group. In particular, in the NMP‐incorporated + EMF‐exposed group, all osteogenic proteins were more abundantly expressed than in the control group. This indicated that the NMP incorporation + EMF exposure induced a signaling pathway through activation of p‐ERK and calcium channels. Also, in vivo evaluation revealed that rat calvarial defects treated with EMFs and NMPs had good regeneration results with new bone formation and increased mineral density after 6 weeks. Altogether, these results suggest that NMP treatment or EMF exposure of Saos‐2 cells can increase osteogenic activity and NMP incorporation following EMF exposure which is synergistically efficient for osteogenesis.
Predicting Need for Surgery in Recurrent Laryngotracheal Stenosis Using Changes in Spirometry
Authors: Crosby Tyler , McWhorter Andrew , McDaniel Lee , Kunduk Melda , Adkins Lacey
Published: November 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

We sought to identify changes that occur in spirometric values between surgical interventions in patients with recurrent laryngotracheal stenosis and assess the utility of tracking those changes in predicting the need to return to surgery.

Methods

This is a retrospective, case‐control study of laryngotracheal stenosis. Charts from a 10 year period were reviewed, and 80 patients were identified with recurrent laryngotracheal stenosis and serial spirometry. Recorded forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced inspiratory volume in 1 second (FIV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and body mass index (BMI) were tabulated. Calculations were then performed to determine deviations in spirometric measurements from maximums. Comparing the patients who required intervention to those who did not, we used a regression analysis to generate a decision tree based on factors with the strongest predictive power. We then calculated receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for all calculated variables.

Results

Deviations in PEF, PIF, and FIV1 from each patient's maximums had strong predictive power in determining return to surgery. PIF was the only fixed measurement found to have a statistically significant role in predicting return to surgery. BMI did not play a role.

Conclusion

For each patient, the deviation from their overall spirometric maximums had the statistically strongest predictive power in determining need to return to surgery. This suggests the importance of the trends in spirometric measures for each individual, and implies these trends have greater import than fixed measures alone.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:2199–2203, 2021
Gut Mucosal Gene Expression and Metabolic Changes After Roux‐en‐Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Jorsal Tina , Christensen Marie M. , Mortensen Brynjulf , Nygaard Eva B. , Zhang Chen , Rigbolt Kristoffer , Wandall Erik , Langholz Ebbe , Friis Steffen , Worm Dorte , Floyd Andrea , Helgstrand Frederik , Støving René K. , Aldries Alin R. , Juhl Claus B. , Østergaard Torben , Rydborg Thomas , Forman Julie L. , Sørensen Frederik , Schmidt Torsten , Falkenhahn Mechthilde , Musholt Petra B. , Theis Stefan , Larsen Philip J. , Rehfeld Jens F. , Vrang Niels , Jelsing Jacob , Vilsbøll Tina , Knop Filip K.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Changes in the secretion of gut‐derived peptide hormones have been associated with the metabolic benefits of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. In this study, the effects of RYGB on anthropometrics, postprandial plasma hormone responses, and mRNA expression in small intestinal mucosa biopsy specimens before and after RYGB were evaluated.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, 20 individuals with obesity undergoing RYGB underwent mixed meal tests and upper enteroscopy with retrieval of small intestinal mucosa biopsy specimens 3 months before and after surgery. Concentrations of circulating gut and pancreatic hormones during mixed meal tests as well as full mRNA sequencing of biopsy specimens were evaluated.

Results

RYGB‐induced improvements of body weight and composition, insulin resistance, and circulating cholesterols were accompanied by significant changes in postprandial plasma responses of pancreatic and gut hormones. Global gene expression analysis of biopsy specimens identified 2,437 differentially expressed genes after RYGB, including changes in genes that encode prohormones and G protein–coupled receptors.

Conclusions

RYGB affects the transcription of a wide range of genes, indicating that the observed beneficial metabolic effects of RYGB may rely on a changed expression of several genes in the gut. RYGB‐induced changes in the expression of genes encoding signaling peptides and G protein–coupled receptors may disclose new gut‐derived treatment targets against obesity and diabetes.
In Reply
Authors: Gubbi Sriram , Cordes Lisa M. , Klubo-Gwiezdzinska Joanna , Madan Ravi A. , Nieman Lynnette K. , Gulley James L. , Del Rivero Jaydira
Published: November 2020

This letter to the editor responds to comments by Salinas and colleagues on experiences with identification of adrenal insufficiency among patients on immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Polyaniline/Platinum Composite Cathode Catalysts Towards Durable Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Kocher K. , Hacker V.
Published: November 2020

Polymer stabilization proved to be a promising approach to increase the catalytic performance of common platinum/carbon based cathode catalysts (Pt/C) used in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Platinum and polyaniline composite catalysts (Pt/C/PANI) were prepared by combining chemical polymerization reactions with anion exchange reactions. Electrochemical ex‐situ characterizations of the decorated Pt/C/PANI catalysts show high catalytic activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and, more importantly, a significant enhanced durability compared to the undecorated Pt/C catalyst. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigations reveal structural benefits of Pt/C/PANI for ORR catalysis. All studies confirm high potential of Pt/C/PANI for practical fuel cell application.
Rapid and Efficient Microwave‐Assisted Friedländer Quinoline Synthesis
Authors: Bailey Helen V. , Mahon Mary F. , Vicker Nigel , Potter Barry V. L.
Published: November 2020

A microwave‐based methodology facilitates reaction of 2‐aminophenylketones with cyclic ketones to form a quinoline scaffold. Syntheses of amido‐ and amino‐linked 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 inhibitors with a benzophenone‐linked motif were pursued using 2‐aminobenzophenone as building block. Two amido‐linked targets were achieved in modest yield, but when using microwave‐assisted reductive amination for the amino‐linked counterparts an unexpected product was observed. X‐ray crystallography revealed it as a quinoline derivative, leading to optimisation of a simple and efficient modification of Friedländer methodology. Using reagents and acetic acid catalyst in organic solvent the unassisted reaction proceeds only over several days and in very poor yield. However, by employing neat acetic acid as both solvent and acid catalyst with microwave irradiation at 160 °C quinoline synthesis is achieved in 5 minutes in excellent yield. This has advantages over the previously reported high temperatures or strong acids required, not least given the green credentials of acetic acid, and examples using diverse ketones illustrate applicability. Additionally, the unassisted reaction proceeds effectively at room temperature, albeit much more slowly.
Efficiency and selectivity of ionic liquids in microwave‐assisted extraction of major lichen phenolic compounds: a scalable process with recycling of ionic liquids
Authors: Komaty Sarah , Sauvager Aurélie , Bazureau Jean‐Pierre , Tomasi Sophie , Paquin Ludovic
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Pseudevernia furfuracea, a lichen used classically for cosmetic applications, contains interesting metabolites possessing antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory or antioxidant properties.

Objectives

Ionic liquid combined to microwave‐assisted extraction (IL–MAE) was successfully applied for metabolites extraction from Pseudevernia furfuracea.

Materials and methods

Three imidazolium and pyridinium‐based ionic liquids (ILs): 1,3‐dimethylimidazolium methylsulphate [C1C1Im][MeSO4], 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ethylsulphate [C2C1Im][EtSO4], and N‐ethylpyridinium ethylsulphate [C2Py][EtSO4] were assessed for this process. The efficiency of the extraction method was evaluated using thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) coupled to a Camag® spectrophotodensitometer and using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis.

Results

ILs under MAE showed extraction time efficiency (15 min vs. 24 h for conventional heating) and high selectivity in extracting the targeted metabolites: atranorin (AT), methyl‐β‐orcinol carboxylate (MOC), fumarprotocetraric acid (Fum. Ac.), and physodic acid (Phys. Ac.) despite the increased degradation of AT under MAE. We showed a tunable selectivity of ILs towards extracting metabolites by changing anion or cation due to the modification of the interaction between the IL and the metabolites. While [C2Py][EtSO4] was the most efficient IL and could extract all the targeted metabolites, [C2C1Im][EtSO4] was the most selective. It fully extracted AT and partially Fum. Ac. Moreover, the lichen prepared by mixing procedure provided AT and Fum. Ac. more than the milled one. A 100 times scale‐up extraction was successfully performed on mixed samples with full IL recycling after back extraction.

Conclusion

IL–MAE is reliable for lichen metabolites extraction. The method is reproducible, scalable, with possible IL recycling, opening the door for potential industrial applications.
Thick Heteroepitaxy of Binary and Ternary Semiconductor Materials for Nonlinear Frequency Conversion in the Mid and Longwave Infrared Region
Authors: Tassev Vladimir , Vangala Shivashankar , Brinegar Duane , Parker Meagan , Barlow Timothy
Published: November 2020

Thick hydride vapor phase heteroepitaxy of some III–V, II–VI, and III–VI binary and ternary semiconductor materials such as GaAs, GaP, GaP, GaAsxP1‐x, ZnSe, and GaSe is performed on GaAs substrates and orientation‐patterned GaAs templates. Up to 500 μm thick GaAs, GaP, GaP, GaAsxP1‐x, and ZnSe layers are deposited in single growths or after a regrowth. The GaSe layers deposited through van der Waals heteroepitaxy are up to 4–5 μm thick. When possible, growths are also performed homoepitaxially as the comparison of growth rate and layer quality indicates similar or better results in some of the heteroepitaxial cases. Material analysis using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy indicate smooth surface morphology, uniform layer thicknesses, high crystalline quality, and gradual substrate‐to‐layer material transition in the cases of heteroepitaxy. Respectively, the growths on the templates prepared by an optimized polarity inversion technique (assisted by molecular‐beam epitaxy) reveal excellent domain fidelity and good infrared transparency. The samples grown on templates are intended for frequency conversion devices operating in mid and longwave infrared. The layers grown on plain substrates are meant to support applications in optoelectronics, renewable energy, sensing, and solar cells.
Angle‐Resolved Photoemission of Topological Matter: Examples from Magnetism, Electron Correlation, and Phase Transitions
Authors: Rader Oliver , Sánchez‐Barriga Jaime , Rienks Emile D. L. , Varykhalov Andrei , Springholz Gunther , Yashina Lada V.
Published: November 2020

Topological materials promise new functionalities, which are revealed with the help of angle‐resolved photoemission. Herein, the search for the magnetic bandgap at the Dirac point as a precondition for the quantum anomalous Hall effect is reviewed and its opening for the topological insulator heterostructure MnBi2Te4/Bi2Te3 is demonstrated. Essential preconditions are explained and the reasons why nonmagnetic gaps occur when Se replaces Te. Angle‐resolved photoelectron spectroscopy (ARPES) probes the quantum mechanical final state, and this allows investigation of spin manipulation by light using spin‐resolved ARPES and the dependence of the charge carrier lifetime on the peculiar spin texture of topological states. It is shown that ARPES data do not support SmB6 as the first strongly correlated topological insulator and an alternative, trivial explanation for the results of ARPES and electrical transport experiments is formulated. Epitaxially grown topological crystalline insulators are, due to their dependence on crystal symmetries, more versatile in the control of individual bulk band inversions. It is shown that this leads to topological quantum phase transitions and associated novel functionalities. Finally, the surface and bulk band connectivity of a type‐II 3D Weyl semimetal is investigated and an outlook is given for the scientific field.
Parameterization and validation of a new force field for Pt(II) complexes of 2‐(4′‐amino‐2′‐hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole
Authors: Pereira Ander Francisco , Prandi Ingrid Guarnetti , Ramalho Teodorico Castro
Published: November 2020

Understanding the ways of interaction of a drug with a biological target is crucial in the pharmacology field. One methodology that allows the simulation of new drugs under in vitro conditions is the classical molecular dynamics (MD) method. However, MD simulations in systems containing metallodrugs are challenging due to the lack of specific parameters found in the literature. In this work, we propose and model a new possible anticancer platinum(II) complex: cis‐dichloro(2‐aminomethylpyridine)platinum(II) bonded to 2‐(4′‐amino‐2′‐hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole (AHBT). The developed model consists of a new set of AMBER force field parameters based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The extensive validation of the parameter set shows that it adequately describes the structural properties of the complex. Overall, we expect this work to contribute significantly to future MD simulations of Pt(II) complexes in biological targets that are still not well explored, mainly due to the few parameters found in the literature.
Density functional theory computational study of [M∙Pro‐H]+ (M = Pb, Ba, or Pt) complexes in the gas phase
Authors: Shin Joong‐Won
Published: November 2020

We performed M06‐L and X3LYP density functional theory calculations to characterize gas‐phase structures of [Pb·Pro‐H]+, [Ba·Pro‐H]+, and [Pt·Pro‐H]+ complex isomers. Two distinct isomeric structure types, namely the A‐ and H‐type are investigated for each complex for multiplicities of 1, 3, and 5; the lowest‐energy isomers of [Pb·Pro‐H]+ and [Ba·Pro‐H]+ are singlet A‐types, whereas the lowest‐energy isomer of [Pt·Pro‐H]+ is a singlet H‐type. Vibrational bands of each isomer are assigned based on harmonic frequency analysis over the 800–4000 cm−1 range, and signature modes predicted in the spectral region below 3200 cm−1 are suggested for comparison with vibrational spectroscopy results so that isomer assignments can be made. Our study provides a more direct approach for structure elucidations of the [M·Pro‐H]+ complexes than a previous study, which reports Boltzmann population analysis based on systematic calculations to predict the most abundant isomer of the [Pb·Pro‐H]+ complex.
Confounder selection strategies targeting stable treatment effect estimators
Authors: Loh Wen Wei , Vansteelandt Stijn
Published: November 2020

Inferring the causal effect of a treatment on an outcome in an observational study requires adjusting for observed baseline confounders to avoid bias. However, adjusting for all observed baseline covariates, when only a subset are confounders of the effect of interest, is known to yield potentially inefficient and unstable estimators of the treatment effect. Furthermore, it raises the risk of finite‐sample bias and bias due to model misspecification. For these stated reasons, confounder (or covariate) selection is commonly used to determine a subset of the available covariates that is sufficient for confounding adjustment. In this article, we propose a confounder selection strategy that focuses on stable estimation of the treatment effect. In particular, when the propensity score (PS) model already includes covariates that are sufficient to adjust for confounding, then the addition of covariates that are associated with either treatment or outcome alone, but not both, should not systematically change the effect estimator. The proposal, therefore, entails first prioritizing covariates for inclusion in the PS model, then using a change‐in‐estimate approach to select the smallest adjustment set that yields a stable effect estimate. The ability of the proposal to correctly select confounders, and to ensure valid inference of the treatment effect following data‐driven covariate selection, is assessed empirically and compared with existing methods using simulation studies. We demonstrate the procedure using three different publicly available datasets commonly used for causal inference.
Building Double Branch Dyes with Acetylenic Bonds: An Effective Strategy to Enhance the Efficiency of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Kai , Han Nan , Shao Weitao , Xiao Jing , Zhang Shupeng , Zheng Zhiyuan , Shao Guang , Fang Jing-Kun
Published: November 2020

Double branch (DB) dyes could reduce intermolecular interactions and realize good photovoltaic performances. Herein, symmetric DB dyes (FSDD‐1 and FSDD‐2) featuring with one and two acetylenic bonds as the isolation groups are reported. The corresponding single branch (SB) dye FSSD‐EH is synthesized for comparison. For the adsorption spectra, bathochromic shifts and higher ε are observed for DB dyes FSDD‐1 and FSDD‐2 compared with SB dye FSSD‐EH, which suggests better light‐harvesting capabilities for the DB dyes. Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) sensitized by DB dyes FSDD‐1 and FSDD‐2 exhibit significant increases for the Jsc and Voc compared with SB dye FSSD‐EH, so much better η are achieved by the DB dyes (5.34, 7.14, and 2.46% for FSDD‐1, FSDD‐2, and FSSD‐EH, respectively). FSDD‐2 with a diyne unit exhibits higher η compared with FSDD‐1 with an yne unit as the isolation groups. The research shows that a much better photovoltaic performance of DSSCs can be achieved after connecting two dye molecules to be a DB dye by adopting acetylenic bonds as the isolation group. A longer distance between the two branches realized by a diyne unit is beneficial and effective to achieve better photovoltaic performance.
Limited Quadruple Modification of Various Starches in the Literature: Why?
Authors: Omodunbi Ashogbon Adeleke
Published: November 2020

Undoubtedly, there are few publications involving quadruple modification of various starches and reasons for these are the focal point of this work. This communication looks at the problems associated with native, single modification, dual modification, and triple modification of various starches and explains the reasons for the limited work on quadruple modification of starches. These four stages process are exorbitant, each stage involves several inputs in terms of materials, energy, pressure, temperature, catalyst, reaction medium, and time.
Multifocus Image Fusion Method Based on Convolutional Deep Belief Network
Authors: Zhai Hao , Zhuang Yi
Published: November 2020

Multifocus image fusion is a technique that can integrate the focus information of different source images into a single composite image. At present, most fusion methods still suffer from problems such as block artifacts, artificial edges, halo effects, ringing effects, and contrast reduction. To address these problems, a novel multifocus image fusion method based on a convolutional deep belief network is proposed in this paper. The convolutional operator can effectively extract the focus information of source images, and the focused features extracted from source images can effectively distinguish focused windows from defocused windows. After multiple rounds of training, the convolutional deep belief network model can establish an effective mapping between source images and a score map, which is essential to generate an accurate focus map. Then, the focus map is further modified using binary segmentation and small region filtering, and the final decision map for fusion is obtained. Finally, according to the weights provided by the final decision map, a final fusion image will be formed by fusing multiple source images. The experimental results show that the proposed method is superior to other existing fusion methods in terms of subjective visual effects and objective quantitative evaluation. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Minds on the move: Crossing disciplines to shed new light on human cognition
Authors: Vari‐Lavoisier Ilka
Published: November 2020

Mobility is integral to mankind, but current cognitive research on migrants is almost nonexistent. Most of the existing knowledge on human cognition is based on data collected from (and by) the wealthiest and least mobile citizens of the world. In turn, most of the migration literature relies on superficial, and at times erroneous, assumptions regarding the cognitive processes underlying migratory phenomenon. However, research conducted to date in reveals striking convergences between core issues relevant to scholars in cognitive science on the one hand, and in migration studies on the other. This current lack on cross‐disciplinary dialog has no scientific grounds for two fields, which are inherently interdisciplinary, and yet it has concerning sociopolitical implications. Mapping out a novel research agenda at the crossroads of the cognitive and social sciences, this article stands as an invitation for researchers to engage in further collaborative work involving joint data collections and joint data analyses. This paper argues that researching migrant cognition would give more breadth to cognitive science and more depth to migration studies, which has the potential to better inform the design of public policies. Though the examples of (a) visual perception, (b) future‐oriented cognition, and (c) language acquisition, this article shows that pairing the discoveries of migration scholars and cognitive scientists can move forward our understanding on the human mind, in an ever‐moving world.

This article is categorized under:

Economics > Individual Decision‐Making

Psychology > Theory and Methods

Psychology > Comparative Psychology

Psychology > Language