bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Full Potential of Photocatalytic Carbon Dioxide Reduction Using a Dinuclear Re2Cl2 Complex Assisted by Various Photosensitizers
Authors: Giereth Robin , Obermeier Martin , Forschner Lukas , Karnahl Michael , Schwalbe Matthias , Tschierlei Stefanie
Published: March 2021

Photosensitizing units have already been applied to enable light‐driven catalytic reduction of CO2 with mononuclear rhenium complexes. However, dinuclear catalytic systems that are able to activate CO2 in a cooperative bimetallic fashion have only rarely been combined with photosensitizers. We here present detailed studies on the influence of additional photosensitizers on the catalytic performance of a dirhenium complex (Re2Cl2) and present correlations with spectroscopic measurements, which shed light on the reaction mechanism. The use of [Ir(dFppy)3] (Ir, dFppy=2‐(4,6‐difluorophenyl)pyridine)) resulted in considerably faster CO2 to CO transformation than [Cu(xant)(bcp)]PF6 (Cu, xant=xantphos, bcp=bathocuproine). Emission quenching studies, transient absorption as well as IR spectroscopy provide information about the electron transfer paths of the intermolecular systems. It turned out that formation of double reduced species [Re2Cl2]2− along with an intermediate with a Re−Re bond ([ReRe]) can be taken as an indication of multi‐electron storage capacity. Furthermore, under catalytic conditions a CO2‐bridged intermediate was identified.
A novel modified RANKL variant can prevent osteoporosis by acting as a vaccine and an inhibitor
Authors: Ko Young Jong , Sohn Hong Moon , Jang Yuria , Park Mineon , Kim Bora , Kim Beomchang , Park Jae‐Il , Hyun Hoon , Jeong Byeongseok , Hong Chansik , Lim Wonbong
Published: March 2021

Background

The discovery of receptor activator of nuclear factor‐ĸB ligand (RANKL) as the final effector in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis has led to a better understanding of bone remodeling. When RANKL binds to its receptor (RANK), osteoclastic differentiation and activation are initiated. Herein, we propose a strategy using a novel RANKL variant as a competitive inhibitor for RANKL. The RANKL variant activates LGR4 signaling, which competitively regulates RANK and acts as an immunogen that induces anti‐RANKL antibody production.

Methods

We modified the RANK‐binding site on RANKL using minimal amino acid changes in the RANKL complex and its counterpart receptor RANK and tried to evaluate the inhibitory effects on osteoclastogenesis.

Results

The novel RANKL variant did not bind RANK in osteoclast progenitor cells, but activated LGR4 through the GSK3‐β signaling pathway, thereby suppressing activated T cell cytoplasmic nuclear factor calcineurin‐dependent 1 (NFATc1) expression and activity during osteoclastogenesis. Our RANKL variant generated high levels of RANKL‐specific antibodies, blocked osteoclastogenesis, and inhibited osteoporosis in ovariectomized mouse models. Generated anti‐RANKL antibodies showed a high inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions

We observed that the novel RANKL indeed blocks RANKL via LGR4 signaling and generates anti‐RANKL antibodies, demonstrating an innovative strategy in the development of general immunotherapy.
Genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease, cognition, and mild behavioral impairment in healthy older adults
Authors: Creese Byron , Arathimos Ryan , Brooker Helen , Aarsland Dag , Corbett Anne , Lewis Cathryn , Ballard Clive , Ismail Zahinoor
Published: March 2021

Background

The neuropsychiatric syndrome mild behavioral impairment (MBI) describes an at‐risk state for dementia and may be a useful screening tool for sample enrichment. We hypothesized that stratifying a cognitively normal sample on MBI status would enhance the association between genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cognition.

Methods

Data from 4458 participants over age 50 without dementia was analyzed. A cognitive composite score was constructed and the MBI Checklist was used to stratify those with MBI and those without. Polygenic scores for AD were generated using summary statistics from the IGAP study.

Results

AD genetic risk was associated with worse cognition in the MBI group but not in the no MBI group (MBI: β = –0.09, 95% confidence interval: –0.13 to –0.03,P = 0.002,R2 = 0.003). The strongest association was in those with more severe MBI aged ≥65.

Conclusions

MBI is an important feature of aging; screening on MBI may be a useful sample enrichment strategy for clinical research.
A transgenic Alx4‐CreER mouse to analyze anterior limb and nephric duct development
Authors: Rockwell Devan M. , O'Connor Amber K. , Bentley‐Ford Melissa R. , Haycraft Courtney J. , Croyle Mandy J. , Brewer Kathryn M. , Berbari Nicolas F. , Kesterson Robert A. , Yoder Bradley K.
Published: March 2021

Background

Genetic tools to study gene function and the fate of cells in the anterior limb bud are very limited.

Results

We describe a transgenic mouse line expressing CreERT2 from the Aristaless‐like 4 (Alx4) promoter that induces recombination in the anterior limb. Cre induction at embryonic day 8.5 revealed that Alx4‐CreERT2 labeled cells using the mTmG Cre reporter contributed to anterior digits I to III as well as the radius of the forelimb. Cre activity is expanded further along the AP axis in the hindlimb than in the forelimb resulting in some Cre reporter cells contributing to digit IV. Induction at later time points labeled cells that become progressively restricted to more anterior digits and proximal structures. Comparison of Cre expression from the Alx4 promoter transgene with endogenous Alx4 expression reveals Cre expression is slightly expanded posteriorly relative to the endogenous Alx4 expression. Using Alx4‐CreERT2 to induce loss of intraflagellar transport 88 (Ift88), a gene required for ciliogenesis, hedgehog signaling, and limb patterning, did not cause overt skeletal malformations. However, the efficiency of deletion, time needed for Ift88 protein turnover, and for cilia to regress may hinder using this approach to analyze cilia in the limb. Alx4‐CreERT2 is also active in the mesonephros and nephric duct that contribute to the collecting tubules and ducts of the adult nephron. Embryonic activation of the Alx4‐CreERT2 in the Ift88 conditional line results in cyst formation in the collecting tubules/ducts.

Conclusion

Overall, the Alx4‐CreERT2 line will be a new tool to assess cell fates and analyze gene function in the anterior limb, mesonephros, and nephric duct.
Light modulated cnidocyte discharge predates the origins of eyes in Cnidaria
Authors: Picciani Natasha , Kerlin Jamie R. , Jindrich Katia , Hensley Nicholai M. , Gold David A. , Oakley Todd H.
Published: March 2021

Complex biological traits often originate by integrating previously separate parts, but the organismal functions of these precursors are challenging to infer. If we can understand the ancestral functions of these precursors, it could help explain how they persisted and how they facilitated the origins of complex traits. Animal eyes are some of the best studied complex traits, and they include many parts, such as opsin‐based photoreceptor cells, pigment cells, and lens cells. Eye evolution is understood through conceptual models that argue these parts gradually came together to support increasingly sophisticated visual functions. Despite the well‐accepted logic of these conceptual models, explicit comparative studies to identify organismal functions of eye precursors are lacking. Here, we investigate how precursors functioned before they became part of eyes in Cnidaria, a group formed by sea anemones, corals, and jellyfish. Specifically, we test whether ancestral photoreceptor cells regulated the discharge of cnidocytes, the expensive single‐use cells with various functions including prey capture, locomotion, and protection. Similar to a previous study of Hydra, we show an additional four distantly related cnidarian groups discharge significantly more cnidocytes when exposed to dim blue light compared with bright blue light. Our comparative analyses support the hypothesis that the cnidarian ancestor was capable of modulating cnidocyte discharge with light, which we speculate uses an opsin‐based phototransduction pathway homologous to that previously described in Hydra. Although eye precursors might have had other functions like regulating timing of spawning, our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that photoreceptor cells which mediate cnidocyte discharge predated eyes, perhaps facilitating the prolific origination of eyes in Cnidaria.
Polarization in attitudes towards refugees and migrants in the Netherlands
Authors: Albada Katja , Hansen Nina , Otten Sabine
Published: March 2021

This research investigated whether and to what extent Dutch society is polarized in its attitudes towards refugees and migrants. We further investigated what factors were linked to polarization by testing an integrated three‐dimensional model. A latent profile analysis of a representative Dutch sample (N = 1897) suggested that society is indeed polarized, with two substantial groups—anti (16.5%) and pro (18.7%)—at opposite ends. The middle was also divided into people with critical (31.8%) and lenient (33%) attitudes. The three dimensions of our model, (1) the individual and social self (education, political orientation, relative deprivation), (2) perceptions and experience regarding refugees and migrants (perceived cultural distance and contact), and (3) the societal context (societal discontent), were all significantly associated with polarized attitudes. Interestingly, perceived cultural distance from Islam was most strongly linked to polarized attitudes. Organizing different factors into an integrated model offers new insights into the complexity of polarization in society.
Spherical‐matching hyperbolic‐array photoacoustic computed tomography
Authors: Duan Yihao , Cheng Zhongwen , Qiu Tengsen , Wen Liewei , Xiong Kedi
Published: March 2021

Linear‐array photoacoustic computed tomography (LA‐PACT), for its flexibility and simplicity, has great potential in providing anatomical and functional information of tissues. However, the limited coverage view impedes the LA‐PACT obtaining high‐quality images. In this study, a photoacoustic tomographic system with a hyperbolic‐array transducer was developed for stereoscopic PA imaging of carotid artery. The hyperbolic‐array PACT increases the receiving sensitivity for PA signal detection due to its transducer's geometric structure matching with the spherical wave. The control phantom experiment shows that the proposed system can expand the angular coverage of ∼1/3 more than that of the LA‐PACT system, and the volumetric PA images of rat's carotid artery demonstrates the potential of the system for carotid artery imaging. Furthermore, volumetric imaging of the human forearm verifies that the system has significant capability in human imaging, which indicates that it has bright prospect for assisting diagnosis in the vascular disease.
Differentially expressed proteins obtained by label‐free quantitative proteomic analysis reveal affected biological processes and functions in Western diet‐induced steatohepatitis
Authors: Moreto Fernando , Ferron Artur J. T. , Francisqueti‐Ferron Fabiane V. , D'Amato Alfonsina , Garcia Jessica L. , Costa Mariane R. , Silva Carol Cristina V. A. , Altomare Alessandra , Correa Camila Renata , Aldini Giancarlo , Ferreira Ana Lucia A.
Published: March 2021

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a pathological manifestation with a progressive incidence in response to the epidemic of hepatic steatosis caused primarily by excessive energy intake. The present study unravels affected biological processes and functions by the presence of NASH in rats using a label‐free quantitative proteomic strategy. NASH was induced by a Western high‐sugar and high‐fat diet for 20 weeks. The liver tissue was collected for histology and for a mass spectrometry‐based proteomic protocol. The NASH group showed severe lipidosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and the presence of collagen deposition. Among upregulated proteins in NASH perilipin‐2 (Plin‐2; F6QBA3; difference [diff]: 2.29), ferritin heavy (Fth1; Q66HI5; diff: 2.19) and light (Ftl1; P02793; diff: 1.75) chains, macrophage migration inhibitory factor 1 (Mif; P30904; diff: 1.69), and fibronectin (Fn1; F1LST1; diff: 0.35) were observed, whereas among downregulated proteins, plectin (Q6S399; diff: −3.34), some Cyp2 family proteins of the cytochrome P450 complex, glutathione S‐transferases, flavin‐containing monooxygenase 1 (Fmo1; P36365; diff: −2.08), acetyl‐CoA acetyltransferase 2 (Acat2; Q5XI22; diff: −2.25), acyl‐CoA oxidase 2 (Acox2; F1LNW3; diff: −1.59), and acyl‐CoA oxidase 3 (Acox3; F1M9A7; diff: −2.41) were observed. Also, biological processes and functions such as LPS/IL‐1 inhibition of RXR, fatty acid metabolism, Nrf2‐mediated oxidative stress response, xenobiotic metabolism, and PXR/RXR and CAR/RXR activations were predicted to be affected. In conclusion, the liver of rats with NASH induced by Western diet shows a decreased capacity of metabolizing lipids, fatty acids, and xenobiotic compounds that predispose fibrosis development.
Living in opposition: How women in the United States cope in spite of mistrust of federal leadership during the pandemic of Covid‐19
Authors: Hardy Lisa J. , Mana Adi , Mundell Leah , Benheim Sharón , Morales Kayla Torres , Sagy Shifra
Published: March 2021

International research collaborators conducted research investigating sociocultural responses to the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Our mixed methods research design includes surveys and interviews conducted between March and September of 2020 including 249 of 506 survey responses and 18 of 50 in‐depth, exploratory, semi‐structured interviews with self‐defined politically left‐leaning women in the United States. We employ a sequential design to analyze statistical and qualitative data.

Despite international data suggesting that trust in federal governments reduces anxiety, women who did not trust and actively opposed the Trump administration reported lower levels of anxiety than expected. Results indicate reliance on and development of new forms of connection that seem to mitigate symptomatic anxieties when living in opposition. Women living in opposition to the leadership of the federal government use and develop resources to help them cope. Research on coping strategies and mental health and anxiety during crisis can inform recommendations for ways to support and strengthen sense of coherence during tumultuous times.
Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase regulates microglial immune responses in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Chen Michael J. , Ramesha Supriya , Weinstock Laura D. , Gao Tianwen , Ping Lingyan , Xiao Hailian , Dammer Eric B. , Duong Duc D. , Levey Allan I. , Lah James J. , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Wood Levi B. , Rangaraju Srikant
Published: March 2021

The importance of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway signaling in regulating microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unclear. We examined the role of MAPK signaling in microglia using a preclinical model of AD pathology and quantitative proteomics studies of postmortem human brains. In multiplex immunoassay analyses of MAPK phosphoproteins in acutely isolated microglia and brain tissue from 5xFAD mice, we found phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) was the most strongly upregulated phosphoprotein within the MAPK pathway in acutely isolated microglia, but not whole‐brain tissue from 5xFAD mice. The importance of ERK signaling in primary microglia cultures was next investigated using transcriptomic profiling and functional assays of amyloid‐β and neuronal phagocytosis, which confirmed that ERK is a critical regulator of IFNγ‐mediated pro‐inflammatory activation of microglia, although it was also partly important for constitutive microglial functions. Phospho‐ERK was an upstream regulator of disease‐associated microglial gene expression (Trem2, Tyrobp), as well as several human AD risk genes (Bin1, Cd33, Trem2, Cnn2), indicative of the importance of microglial ERK signaling in AD pathology. Quantitative proteomic analyses of postmortem human brain showed that ERK1 and ERK2 were the only MAPK proteins with increased protein expression and positive associations with neuropathological grade. In a human brain phosphoproteomic study, we found evidence for increased flux through the ERK signaling pathway in AD. Overall, our analyses strongly suggest that ERK phosphorylation, particularly in microglia in mouse models, is a regulator of pro‐inflammatory immune responses in AD pathogenesis.
The safety and feasibility of intra‐corporeal gastroduodenostomy using a self‐pulling and latter transected method (Delta SPLT) in totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy
Authors: Hong Jun , Wang Ya‐Ping , Wang Jian , Hua Lu‐Chun , Hao Han‐Kun
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

In 2016, the self‐pulling and latter transection method (named “Delta SPLT”), a modified delta‐shaped gastroduodenostomy (DA) technique for totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy, was described. Delta SPLT reduced the technical difficulty of the surgery and the quantity of cartridges required with a manageable initial safety profile. Here, the safety and feasibility of this technique are analyzed at 1 year's follow‐up.

Methods

The demographic and clinicopathologic profiles, perioperative details, and postoperative outcomes of 45 consecutive patients who underwent Delta SPLT from March 2016 to March 2019 were retrospectively analyzed.

The Delta SPLT technique, which consisted of one endoscopic linear stapler and four cartridges each, was used for reconstruction in every case.

Results

The mean operative time was 127.1 ± 38.2 min, including a reconstruction duration of 22.6 ± 7.2 min. There were no surgical or anastomotic complications. The mean postoperative stay duration was 5.8 ± 1.2 days, and the morbidity rate was 2.2% with one case of postoperative pneumonia.

Conclusions

The results at the one‐year follow‐up suggest that Delta SPLT is a safe and feasible procedure. Delta SPLT is characterized by fewer difficulties experienced during surgery, lower surgical costs, it is easy to practice, and it is beneficial for patients who are undergoing gastroduodenostomy.
Best Practices in Facial Nerve Monitoring
Authors: Kartush Jack M. , Rice Kent S. , Minahan Robert E. , Balzer Gene K. , Yingling Charles D. , Seubert Christoph N.
Published: March 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Facial nerve monitoring (FNM) has evolved into a widely used adjunct for many surgical procedures along the course of the facial nerve. Even though majority opinion holds that FNM reduces the incidence of iatrogenic nerve injury, there are few if any studies yielding high‐level evidence and no practice guidelines on which clinicians can rely. Instead, a review of the literature and medicolegal cases reveals significant variations in methodology, training, and clinical indications.

Study Design

Literature review and expert opinion.

Methods

Given the lack of standard references to serve as a resource for FNM, we assembled a multidisciplinary group of experts representing more than a century of combined monitoring experience to synthesize the literature and provide a rational basis to improve the quality of patient care during FNM.

Results

Over the years, two models of monitoring have become well‐established: 1) monitoring by the surgeon using a stand‐alone device that provides auditory feedback of facial electromyography directly to the surgeon, and 2) a team, typically consisting of surgeon, technologist, and interpreting neurophysiologist. Regardless of the setting and the number of people involved, the reliability of monitoring depends on the integration of proper technical performance, accurate interpretation of responses, and their timely application to the surgical procedure. We describe critical steps in the technical set‐up and provide a basis for context‐appropriate interpretation and troubleshooting of recorded signals.

Conclusions

We trust this initial attempt to describe best practices will serve as a basis for improving the quality of patient care while reducing inappropriate variations.

Level of Evidence

4Laryngoscope, 131:S1–S42, 2021
Thermostable Fluorescent Capsules with the Cross‐Linked Heterocyclic Polymer Shell from Poly(pyrrole‐phenosafranin)
Authors: Miksa Beata , Steinke Urszula , Trzeciak Katarzyna , Sniechowska Justyna , Rozanski Artur
Published: March 2021

The present investigation describes the synthesis of capsules with a poly(pyrrole‐phenosafranin) cross‐linked shell. The capsules are prepared in a water solution by the facile single‐step chemical oxidative polymerization of monomers within hydrophobic interior of lipid bilayers that act as temporary scaffolds created by liposomes from 1,2‐dilauroyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphatidylcholine. The polypyrrole links phenosafranin units via amino groups, thus new thermostable nanocapsules are obtained without additional cross‐linking agents. Their spherical shape is confirmed by electron microscopy. Wide spectral characteristics of capsules by using different analytical methods provide detailed information about their structures.
Synthesis and Characterization of Tertiary Nanothermite CNMs/Al/KClO4 with Enhanced Combustion Characteristics
Authors: Fahd Ahmed , Dubois Charles , Chaouki Jamal , Wen J. Z. , Youssef Ehab
Published: March 2021

Much attention has been directed toward the development of new energetic materials to achieve the increasingly demanding performance of high‐speed propulsion systems. Nanothermite is one of the main approaches for the development of new energetic materials by the close integration of oxidizer and metal fuel. This study is devoted to evaluating the impact of different carbon nanomaterials (graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes, and carbon nanofibers) on the thermal behavior of nanothermites based on potassium perchlorate and nano aluminium powder. Nanothermite compositions were prepared using a conventional sonication method. The morphology of nanothermites was characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), which confirmed that the nanoparticles are homogeneously dispersed without agglomeration. The structure of nanothermite was also characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy. The impact of carbon nanomaterials on the combustion behavior of nanothermite was evaluated by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and bomb calorimetry. There was good agreement between results from DSC and bomb calorimetry. In general, the total heat released improved with the addition of carbon nanomaterials and particularly graphene oxide, which generated the highest increase in the heat of combustion. In addition, the maximum decomposition temperature shifted to a lower temperature, which indicates enhanced ignition characteristics. This is the first time reporting on the synthesis and characterization of tertiary nanothermites based on nano‐aluminum, potassium perchlorate, and carbon nanosize materials. It can be concluded that these novel nanothermite compositions exhibit dramatically improved properties as demonstrated by a 200 % increase in the heat of combustion with only a 5 % addition of graphene oxide. Moreover, the ignition temperature decreased from 545.1 °C to 508.7 °C enhancing the overall combustion characteristics.
Click Chemistry Reactions between Hydroxyl‐Terminated or Alkynyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene and Benzyl Azide
Authors: Li Yonghui , Yang Rongjie , Li Jianmin
Published: March 2021

Alkynyl‐terminated polybutadiene (ATPB) may be as a new type of propellant binder through click chemistry reaction between alkynyl and azide group. In this paper, The reactions between ATPB and hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) with benzyl azide, respecfively, were tracked by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, FTIR, and Elemental analysis measurements. The results show that the azide group and C=C of HTPB undergo 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction to form a 1,2,3‐triazoline ring without the catalyst. Both terminal C≡C and middle C=C bonds of ATPB can react with azide groups, and the reactivity of the C≡C bond is significantly higher than that of the C=C bonds. With the copper (I) catalyst, the reaction between the azide group and the C=C bonds of HTPB is significantly weakened, that is the copper (I) can not catalyze the reaction between C=C and ‐N3. these results are very meaningful for the design of the ATPB and azide system as the binder of solid propellant.
Stability of EPSPS gene copy number in Hordeum glaucum Steud (barley grass) in the presence and absence of glyphosate selection
Authors: Adu‐Yeboah Patricia , Malone Jenna M , Gill Gurjeet , Preston Christopher
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Gene amplification has been shown to provide resistance to glyphosate in several weed species, including Hordeum glaucum populations in South Australia. The stability of 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase (EPSPS) gene copies in resistant populations in the presence or absence of glyphosate selection has not been determined.

RESULTS

Applying glyphosate to a cloned plant resulted in an increase in resistance and EPSPS copy number in the progeny of that plant compared to the untreated clone. The LD50 (herbicide concentration required for 50% mortality) increased by 75% to 79% in the progeny of the treated clones compared to the untreated in both populations (YP‐17 and YP‐16). EPSPS copy number estimates were higher in treated individuals compared to untreated individuals with an average of seven copies compared to six in YP‐16 and 11 compared to six in YP‐17. There was a positive correlation (R2 = 0.78) between EPSPS copy number and LD50 of all populations.

CONCLUSION

EPSPS gene copy number and resistance to glyphosate increased in H. glaucum populations under glyphosate selection, suggesting the number of EPSPS gene copies present is dependent on glyphosate selection. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synergetic Enhancement of Triboelectric Nanogenerators’ Performance Based on Patterned Membranes Fabricated by Phase‐Inversion Process
Authors: Choi Geon-Ju , Baek Seong-Ho , Park Il-Kyu
Published: March 2021

A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is an environmentally friendly energy‐harvesting technology that has attracted considerable research attention as a sustainable energy source. Herein, a synergetic enhancement of TENGs’ performance using patterned polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and nylon membranes and polymer membranes based on a facile phase‐inversion process is reported. The phase‐inversion method provides simple and fast patterned membrane formation to increase the surface area. The pyramid‐patterned membranes are similar in size for both PVDF and nylon 6,6. In addition, the phase transition and crystallinity of PVDF and nylon are not varied, even after the patterning process, because the cooling rate is kept constant during the phase‐inversion process. In a vertical contact‐separation mode of the TENG operation, the patterned PVDF and nylon membranes show ≈2.5 times higher output performance in both the output voltage and current compared with that of the flat membranes. In addition, the performance of the patterned PVDF and nylon membranes does not degrade, even after 5000 cycle tests, because of the elastic nature of the patterned surfaces.
Dynamic event‐triggered H∞ load frequency control for multi‐area power systems with communication delays
Authors: Li Cong , Wang Zhan‐Shan , Tian Yu‐Feng
Published: March 2021

This paper investigates dynamic event‐triggered H∞ load frequency control for multi‐area power systems with communication delays. A novel co‐design method of trigger parameters and H∞ controller based on output feedback is proposed. Unlike routine multiplication operations, this method eliminates rank constraints on the input and output matrices, and avoids the processing of nonlinear terms related to the trigger parameters. Furthermore, under the presented dynamic event‐triggered mechanism, the threshold parameters are dynamically regulated according to the dynamic variation of the system. Therefore, the average data releasing rate can be adjusted in real time to better coordinate the use of network bandwidth resources and requirements of system dynamic performance. Specially, the usage of the infinite‐series‐based inequality and reciprocally convex combination inequality effectively reduces conservatism of the criteria. Finally, some simulations and related comparisons are carried out to demonstrate superiorities of the proposed method.
A continuous distributed control algorithm for time‐varying networks of nonlinear agents with input saturation
Authors: Wang Qingling , Sun Changyin
Published: March 2021

In this article, we explore the possibility of designing a continuous control algorithm for time‐varying networks of high‐order nonlinear agents with input saturation. A class of neural network‐based (NN) distributed control algorithms are proposed for the consensus of nonlinear agents with input saturation and nonidentical unknown control directions (UCDs) under uniformly quasi‐strongly ‐connected graphs. An NN is used to cancel the unknown part of agent dynamics due to the well known NN function approximation property. Also, an adaptive smooth term is employed to compensate for the bounded disturbance, the approximation error. Moreover, an auxiliary system is designed to counteract the effect of input saturation. Furthermore, the control law is augmented with the Nussbaum‐type function to obtain an estimation of the UCDs. It is proven rigorously that the consensus of nonlinear agents with input saturation and nonidentical UCDs can be guaranteed, and the boundedness of all signals of closed‐loop systems is ensured. Finally, simulation examples are given to show the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
Medicinal Chemistry of Indane and Its Analogues: A Mini Review
Authors: Prasher Parteek , Sharma Mousmee
Published: March 2021

‘Indane′ and its analogues indene, 1‐indenone, and 1,3‐indandione present an attractive biological profile for the rational development of therapeutic molecules. The indane/ indene moieties contain aromatic benzene ring fused with an aliphatic cyclopentane/ cyclopentene ring, which provides a rigid bicyclic ring‐framework enriched with diverse chemical properties. The multifarious possibilities for varying the substituent pattern on these fused ring systems enable the extensive appraisal of structure‐activity relationship analysis of rationally designed therapeutic molecules deliberated at their molecular targets. Indane analogues serve as useful scaffolds for the development of efficacious pharmaceuticals and commercial drugs, including Indinavir, Sulindac, and donepezil; whereas the pharmacophores based on indane moiety such as Aminoindanes and Indanedione contribute towards the development of neuroleptics and neuroprotective molecules. Similarly, the Indane‐carboxamide derivatives present a robust candidature as CGRP receptor antagonists, while substituted Indane and its analogue Indene present a privileged profile for the development of anticancer therapeutics by targeting the multifaceted oncologic pathways. Besides, the indane natural product scaffolds serve as perspective drug candidates with marked therapeutic properties. The present review summarizes the medicinal chemistry aspects of indane nucleus and its analogues as anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective agents for the coherent development of impending therapeutics.
Nanoengineering of Advanced Carbon Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Shuoqing , Guo Ziqi , Yang Jian , Wang Chengyin , Sun Bing , Wang Guoxiu
Published: March 2021

Recent research shows that the continuing importance of carbon anode materials plays an important role in the development of sodium‐ion batteries. Nevertheless, the practical deployment of sodium‐ion batteries still faces many challenges such as mediocre sodium storage capability and short cycle life. Therefore, it is imperative to explore improvement methods to boost their competitiveness. Herein, various nanoengineering strategies, including nanostructure design, defect and heteroatom doping, and nanocomposite optimization, are proposed as reliable and effective approaches to improve electrochemical performances and structural stability of carbon‐based anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). The feasibility of nanoengineering is highlighted as a promising approach to develop next‐generation carbon materials for sodium‐ion batteries.
Shenlian extract protects against ultrafine particulate matter‐aggravated myocardial ischemic injury by inhibiting inflammation response via the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes
Authors: Qu Shuiqing , Li Kai , Yang Ting , Yang Yuanmin , Zheng Zhongyuzn , Liu Hui , Wang Xi , Zhang Yu , Deng Shuoqiu , Zhu Xiaoxin , Chen Lina , Li Yujie
Published: March 2021

Air pollution is a growing public health burden associated with several negative health effects, especially cardiovascular disease. Shenlian extract (SL), a traditional Chinese medicine, has the effects of clearing heat‐toxin and promoting blood circulation for removing blood stasis, and it has long been used to treat cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. This study explored the underlying action mechanism of SL against ultrafine particle‐induced myocardial ischemic injury (UFP‐MI) through network pharmacology prediction and experimental verification. Male Sprague–Dawley rats with UFP‐MI were pre‐treated with SL intragastrically for 7 days. All the rats were then euthanized. Inflammatory cytokine detection and histopathological analysis were performed to assess the protective effects of SL. For the mechanism study, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in UFP‐MI rats treated with SL through transcriptomic analysis. Subsequently, in combination with network pharmacology, potential pathways involved in the effects of SL treatment were identified using the Internet‐based Computation Platform (www.tcmip.cn) and Cytoscape 3.6.0. Further validation experiments were performed to reveal the mechanism of the therapeutic effects of SL on UFP‐MI. The results show that SL significantly suppressed inflammatory cell infiltration into myocardial tissue and exhibited significant anti‐inflammatory activity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the DEGs after SL treatment had significant anti‐inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti‐viral activities. Network pharmacology analysis illustrated that the targets of SL were mainly involved in regulation of the inflammatory response, apoptotic process, innate immune response, platelet activation, and coagulation process. By combining transcriptomic and network pharmacology data, we found that SL may exert anti‐inflammatory effects by acting on the NOD‐like signaling pathway to regulate immune response activation and inhibit systemic inflammation. Verification experiments revealed that SL can suppress the secretion of the inflammatory cytokines Interleukin‐1 (IL‐1), Interleukin‐18(IL‐18) and Interleukin‐33(IL‐33) and suppress NLRP3 inflammasome activity. The results suggested that SL can directly inhibit the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes and reduce the release of cytokines to protect against ultrafine particulate matter‐aggravated myocardial ischemic injury.
Corrective factors applied to reduced sulfur compounds in wastewater foul air
Authors: Vitko Tadeo G. , Suffet Irwin H. (Mel)
Published: March 2021

To determine accurately odorant concentrations at its worst‐case condition for planning and odor treatment design purposes, corrective factors need to be factored into the foul air monitoring results of water resource recovery facilities. These corrective factors will adjust each odorant concentration for usual seasonal and daily odor variations. Typically, corrective factors are taken from hydrogen sulfide continuous readings and applied to all identified sulfur odorants. This paper demonstrates that it is incorrect to assume all reduced sulfur compounds mimic the daily fluctuations observed in hydrogen sulfide. Reduced sulfur odorant results from the foul air tested at two different water resource recovery facility process areas over a portion of the daily cycle have been found to behave independently from hydrogen sulfide. Tests have shown that the corrective factors for each reduced sulfur odorant vary notably from facility to facility and enormously from process area to process area. This discovery is important for the improvement of the science of odor control because accurately determining worst‐case odor concentrations affects the modeling (the magnitude of odor nuisance) and the level of treatment (choosing a technology or combination of technologies) needed for odor abatement.

Practitioner points

When conducting foul air assessments, corrective factors are recommended to adjust the results for daily and seasonal variations.

H2S continuous monitors are readily available and of widespread use, therefore they are certainly useful to determine corrective factors.

H2S continuous monitors, however useful for H2S, do not necessarily apply to the rest of the reduced sulfur compounds.

Intermittent sampling and analysis for reduced sulfur compounds at each facility process location over a daily cycle should be conducted.

Results will show the independence of each reduced sulfur compound and the importance of this testing to obtain corrective factors applicable to the facility being assessed.
Simulating Evolution in Asexual Populations with Epistasis
Authors: Diaz-Uriarte Ramon
Published: March 2021

I show how to use OncoSimulR, software for forward-time genetic simulations, to simulate evolution of asexual populations in the presence of epistatic interactions. This chapter emphasizes the specification of fitness and epistasis, both directly (i.e., specifying the effects of individual mutations and their epistatic interactions) and indirectly (using models for random fitness landscapes).
People Facing the Question of Euthanasia: Patients, Family and Friends, Healthcare Workers
Authors: Karplus Rivka
Published: March 2021

Since the Oregon Death with Dignity Act was adopted in 1997, an increasing number of people have requested euthanasia, showing that life has become unbearable for them. However, a person who expresses the wish to die by euthanasia is not saying that he/she prefers death to life, but rather that death seems preferable to life under the actual circumstances. In order to respond to a person’s suffering, we need to understand the nature of that suffering, as they experience it. Suffering may be physical, psychological, relational, spiritual, or existential; frequently these different aspects overlap or intermingle, particularly in a serious illness. Euthanasia does not improve life—it ends it by giving death. But when the response involves listening and accepting the person in his/her present situation, it becomes possible to work together with the person to see what can be done to help reduce suffering. We can look for means of relief for the person’s individual, unique suffering, in partnership with the patient and his/her family and friends, using the resources of both medical knowledge and our shared humanity. The willingness to walk on this shared path with the sick person is in itself an affirmation of his/her human dignity.
The Meaning of Suffering or the Meaning of Life Despite Suffering
Authors: Beuselinck Benoit
Published: March 2021

Even in patients suffering from severe physical diseases such as cancer, the request for euthanasia is often motivated by mental reasons: they consider that their life no longer has meaning, are afraid of future suffering or to be a burden for their family and are discouraged because they have to abandon some activities. Therefore, the request for euthanasia more often emerges in isolated or depressed cancer patients. On the other hand, physical suffering can often be controlled with medication, and if refractory, with palliative sedation.

Should a lethal injection be the solution that we offer to the emotional despair of cancer patients? What other solutions can be offered? Where can we find the necessary resources to respond to mental and existential suffering? The theories of Viktor Frankl seem to be a good starting point since this psychiatrist devoted his entire career to empirical research on the meaning of life. Frankl’s logotherapy was developed in part in peculiar circumstances of severe suffering: during his deportation to Auschwitz. Frankl’s theories as well as his personal experience show us in an empirical way how mankind can find the meaning of life despite, or sometimes as a consequence of situations of severe suffering.
Addressing Ethical Issues in AI
Authors: Stahl Bernd Carsten
Published: March 2021

This chapter reviews the proposals that have been put forward to address ethical issues of AI. It divides them into policy-level proposals, organisational responses and guidance for individuals. It discusses how these mitigation options are reflected in the case studies exemplifying the social reality of AI ethics. The chapter concludes with an overview of the stakeholder groups affected by AI, many of whom play a role in implementing the mitigation strategies and addressing ethical issues in AI.
Conclusion
Authors: Stahl Bernd Carsten
Published: March 2021

The conclusion briefly summarises the main arguments of the book. It focuses on the requirements for mitigation options to be used to address the ethical and human rights concerns of artificial intelligence. It also provides a high-level overview of the main recommendations brought forth in the book. It thereby shows how conceptual and empirical insights into the nature of AI, the ethical issues thus raised and the mitigation strategies currently being discussed can be used to develop practically relevant conclusions. These conclusions and recommendations help to ensure that AI ecosystems are developed and shaped in ways that are conducive to human flourishing.
Holographic approach to thermalization in general anisotropic theories
Authors: Sun Po-Chun , Lee Da-Shin , Yeh Chen-Pin
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We employ the holographic approach to study the thermalization in the quenched strongly-coupled field theories with very general anisotropic scalings including Lifshitz and hyperscaling violating fixed points. The holographic dual is a Vaidya-like time-dependent geometry where the asymptotic metric has general anisotropic scaling isometries. We find the Ryu-Takanayagi extremal surface and use it to calculate the time-dependent entanglement entropy between a strip region with width 2Rand its outside region. In the special case with an isotropic metric, we also explore the entanglement entropy for a spherical region of radiusR. The growth of the entanglement entropy characterizes the thermalization rate after a quench. We study the thermalization process in the early times and late times in both largeRand smallRlimits. The allowed scaling parameter regions are constrained by the null energy conditions as well as the condition for the existence of the Ryu-Takanayagi extremal surfaces. This generalizes the previous works on this subject. All obtained results can be compared with experiments and other methods of probing thermalization.
SARS-CoV-2-positives Kind – Was tun bei unvermeidbarer inhalativer Narkoseeinleitung?
Authors: Leister Nicolas , Yücetepe Sirin , Ulrichs Christoph , Hannes Tobias , Trieschmann Uwe
Published: March 2021

Die inhalative Anästhesieeinleitung hat bei Kindern aufgrund schwieriger Venenverhältnisse und insbesondere bei unkooperativen Patienten einen hohen Stellenwert. In der europaweiten Studie zu Komplikationen in der Kinderanästhesie (APRICOT-Studie) mit fast 30.000 eingeschlossenen Patienten wurde bei 48 % der Kinder die Narkose inhalativ eingeleitet.

Unter den Bedingungen der Coronapandemie stellt die inhalative Anästhesieeinleitung aufgrund der potenziellen Aerosolfreisetzung allerdings ein erhöhtes Infektionsrisiko dar. Für die Anästhesieeinleitung und die definitive Atemwegssicherung wird bei Erwachsenen und Kindern in der aktuellen Pandemiesituation eine „rapid sequence induction“ empfohlen.

Der vorliegende Fall demonstriert, dass es bei Kindern durchaus Situationen geben kann, in denen die inhalative Narkoseeinleitung unvermeidbar ist, und zeigt eine potenzielle Verfahrensweise zur Reduktion des Infektionsrisikos für das betreuende Anästhesiepersonal.
The effects of the chemical environment of menaquinones in lipid monolayers on mercury electrodes on the thermodynamics and kinetics of their electrochemistry
Authors: Dharmaraj Karuppasamy , Dattler Dirk , Kahlert Heike , Lendeckel Uwe , Nagel Felix , Delcea Mihaela , Scholz Fritz
Published: March 2021

The effects of the chemical environment of menaquinones (all-trans MK-4 and all-trans MK-7) incorporated in lipid monolayers on mercury electrodes have been studied with respect to the thermodynamics and kinetics of their electrochemistry. The chemical environment relates to the composition of lipid films as well as the adjacent aqueous phase. It could be shown that the addition of all-trans MK-4 to TMCL does not change the phase transition temperatures of TMCL. In case of DMPC monolayers, the presence of cholesterol has no effect on the thermodynamics (formal redox potentials) of all-trans MK-7, but the kinetics are affected. Addition of an inert electrolyte (sodium perchlorate; change of ionic strength) to the aqueous phase shifts the redox potentials of all-trans MK-7 only slightly. The formal redox potentials of all-trans MK-4 were determined in TMCL and nCL monolayers and found to be higher in nCL monolayers than in TMCL monolayers. The apparent electron transfer rate constants, transfer coefficients and activation energies of all-trans MK-4 in cardiolipins have been also determined. Most surprisingly, the apparent electron transfer rate constants of all-trans MK-4 exhibit an opposite pH dependence for TMCL and nCL films: the rate constants increase in TMCL films with increasing pH, but in nCL films they increase with decreasing pH. This study is a contribution to understand environmental effects on the redox properties of membrane bond redox systems.

Graphical abstract
Einstellungen gegenüber Menschen mit Demenz
Authors: Huber Andreas , Seifert Alexander
Published: March 2021

Hintergrund

Demenzerkrankungen, vorrangig die Alzheimer-Demenz, nehmen weltweit zu. Ein adäquater Umgang mit dieser Entwicklung erfordert den Einbezug der Bevölkerung in entsprechende Maßnahmen; ebenso erfordert er Kenntnisse über die Einstellungen der Bevölkerung im Hinblick auf die Erkrankung und die Menschen, die von dieser Erkrankung betroffen sind. Um die Einstellung der Schweizer Bevölkerung zu Menschen mit Alzheimer-Demenz oder anderen Demenzformen (MmAD) zu erheben und Faktoren herauszuarbeiten, die diese Einstellung beeinflussen, wurde eine Erhebung durchgeführt.

Material und Methoden

Die schweizweite telefonische Befragung von 862 Personen ab 18 Jahren (M = 54,9 Jahre) fand in der Zeit von Juli bis September 2018 statt.

Ergebnisse

Das Alter und die Einstellung zum Alter zeigten sich als signifikante Prädiktoren für die Einstellung zu MmAD. Die Unterteilung dieser Einstellung in eine kognitive und eine affektiv-konative Komponente erwies sich als hilfreich. Kontakt zur Zielgruppe, Informiertheit, erlebte Freuden und eine positive Einstellung zum Alter zeigen einen positiven Zusammenhang bei der affektiv-konativen Komponente, während sich Bildung, Geschlecht und Alter stärker auf die kognitive Komponente auswirken. Dennoch konnten die unabhängigen Variablen nur einen Teil der Varianz erklären.

Schlussfolgerung

Trotz der insgesamt positiven Einstellung gegenüber MmAD in der Schweizer Bevölkerung ergeben sich aus den Ergebnissen dieser Studie Implikationen für die Praxis, die anzeigen, dass neben der Informiertheit auch die erlebten Kontakte zu MmAD die Einstellung zu diesen Personen positiv beeinflussen. Daraus ergibt sich, dass diese Kontakte gefördert werden sollten, um mögliche negative Bilder gegenüber MmAD zu revidieren.