bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some Aspects of Corporate Social Responsibility and Company Reputation
Authors: Chroneos Krasavac Biljana , Karamata Ema , Soldić-Aleksić Jasna , Radosavljević Katica
Published: August 2021

Research question: This paper examines some aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and company reputation (CR) in the Serbian business environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Motivation: The survival, growth and development of companies in the current business environment are conditioned by their capability to reach socially responsible decisions and carry out activities that meet the expectations of different stakeholders. The main motive for this research has stemmed from the current global corona virus pandemic and the way this state of affairs has affected socially responsible behaviour of companies. The research of activities Serbian companies carried out in the time of crisis prompted us to explore the possible relationship between corporate social responsibility and its effects on corporate reputation, and consequently business results. Research idea: An empirical research has been conducted with the view to investigate the position of the public on the importance and impact of CSR on corporate reputation, and also to determine the key factors that guide the decisions of people living in the Republic of Serbia to shop, bearing in mind the socially responsible behaviour of companies. Data: The sample included 173 respondents, the number that allowed valid conclusions. The questionnaire was anonymous; all the respondents were residents of Serbia with access to the internet and willing to fill in the questionnaire, either by following the link advertised on social media or replying to the e-mail. Tools: The gathered data were processed and analysed using descriptive and explorative statistics. Research hypotheses were tested by: Frequency tables, Crosstable procedures, Paired Samples t-test, Spearman`s coefficient of correlation, Chi-square test, and Phi coefficient of correlation, resulting in conclusions and corresponding suggestions. Findings: Respondents perceive companies as social actors driven not only by profit, but by the interest of the community and their business environment. They believe companies can assume their responsibilities through different aspects of doing business, especially by contributing to the improvement of their consumer’s lifestyle. The majority of respondents tend to buy from companies they perceive as socially responsible from the point of view of further development of the society and their ethical behaviour towards the community.  Contribution: The findings can encourage the company’s management to direct their financial and organizational resources into the better management of the CSR, especially during the crisis, because solidarity and care for the most vulnerable part of the population lead to an improvement in the reputation and business results of a company.
Muvi schmallenbergi gen. nov., sp. nov. (Crustacea, Tanaidacea) from the southeast Australian coast, with comments on the distribution and habitat preferences of Chondropodinae
Authors: Jóźwiak Piotr , Błażewicz Magdalena
Published: August 2021

Based on material collected from the shelf off southeast Australia (offshore of Portland), a new genus and new species, Muvi schmallenbergi gen. nov., sp. nov., of the tanaidacean family Metapseudidae, is described. Muvi is distinguishable from other genera within the subfamily Chondropodinae by having equally long antennular flagella. It also differs from other Chondropodinae by a combination of characters such as eyelobes with a group of visual elements, rostrum with smooth lateral edges, pereonites with lateral processes and pleotelson lacking lateral process, antennule article-1 with a single apophysis, maxillule inner lobe well-developed, labial palp bearing three distal setae, cheliped exopod well-developed and setose, pereopod-1 coxa with distinct apophysis, pleopods in five pairs, and uropod basis without apophysis. The genus Deidamiapseudes Sganga & Roccatagliata, 2016 is moved from Chondropodinae (Metapseudidae) to Apseudoidea incertae sedis. An identification key for the genera within Chondropodinae is given, and their distribution is discussed.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of the Lateral Organ Boundaries Domain (LBD) gene family in polyploid wheat and related species
Authors: Xu Jun , Hu Ping , Tao Ye , Song Puwen , Gao Huanting , Guan Yuanyuan
Published: August 2021

Background

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) originated from three different diploid ancestral grass species and experienced two rounds of polyploidization. Exploring how certain wheat gene subfamilies have expanded during the evolutionary process is of great importance. The Lateral Organ Boundaries Domain (LBD) gene family encodes plant-specific transcription factors that share a highly conserved LOB domain and are prime candidates for this, as they are involved in plant growth, development, secondary metabolism and stress in various species.

Methods

Using a genome-wide analysis of high-quality polyploid wheat and related species genome sequences, a total of 228 LBD members from five Triticeae species were identified, and phylogenetic relationship analysis of LBD members classified them into two main classes (classes I and II) and seven subgroups (classes I a–e, II a and II b).

Results

The gene structure and motif composition analyses revealed that genes that had a closer phylogenetic relationship in the same subgroup also had a similar gene structure. Macrocollinearity and microcollinearity analyses of Triticeae species suggested that some LBD genes from wheat produced gene pairs across subgenomes of chromosomes 4A and 5A and that the complex evolutionary history of TaLBD4B-9 homologs was a combined result of chromosome translocation, polyploidization, gene loss and duplication events. Public RNA-seq data were used to analyze the expression patterns of wheat LBD genes in various tissues, different developmental stages and following abiotic and biotic stresses. Furthermore, qRT-PCR results suggested that some TaLBDs in class II responded to powdery mildew, regulated reproductive growth and were involved in embryo sac development in common wheat.
Transport of biodeposits and benthic footprint around an oyster farm, Damariscotta Estuary, Maine
Authors: Gadeken Kara , Clemo William C. , Ballentine Will , Dykstra Steven L. , Fung Mai , Hagemeyer Alexis , Dorgan Kelly M. , Dzwonkowski Brian
Published: August 2021

The benthic impact of aquaculture waste depends on the area and extent of waste accumulation on the sediment surface below and around the farm. In this study we investigated the effect of flow on biodeposit transport and initial deposition by calculating a rough aquaculture “footprint” around an oyster aquaculture farm in the Damariscotta River, ME. We also compared a site under the farm to a downstream “away” site calculated to be within the footprint of the farm. We found similar sediment biogeochemical fluxes, geochemical properties and macrofaunal communities at the site under the farm and the away site, as well as low organic enrichment at both sites, indicating that biodeposition in this environment likely does not have a major influence on the benthos. To predict accumulation of biodeposits, we measured sediment erodibility under a range of shear stresses and found slightly higher erosion rates at the farm than at the away site. A microalgal mat was observed at the sediment surface in many sediment cores. Partial failure of the microalgal mat was observed at high shear velocity, suggesting that the mat may fail and surface sediment erode at shear velocities comparable to or greater than those calculated fromin situ flow measurements. However, this study took place during neap tide, and it is likely that peak bottom velocities during spring tides are high enough to periodically “clear” under-farm sediment of recent deposits.
The composition, geography, biology and assembly of the coastal flora of the Cape Floristic Region
Authors: Grobler B. Adriaan , Cowling Richard M.
Published: August 2021

The Cape Floristic Region (CFR) is globally recognized as a hotspot of plant diversity and endemism. Much of this diversity stems from radiations associated with infertile acid sands derived from sandstones of the geologically ancient Cape Fold Belt. These ancient montane floras acted as the source for most subsequent radiations on the Cape lowlands during the Oligocene (on silcretes) and Mio–Pliocene (on shales). The geomorphic evolution of the CFR during the Plio–Pleistocene led to the first large-scale occurrence of calcareous substrata (coastal dunes and calcarenites) along the Cape coast, providing novel habitats for plant colonization and ensuing evolution of the Cape coastal flora—the most recent diversification event in the Cape. Few studies have investigated the CFR’s dune and calcarenite floras, and fewer still have done so in an evolutionary context. Here, we present a unified flora of these coastal calcareous habitats of the CFR and analyze the taxonomic, biological and geographical traits of its component species to gain insights into its assembly. The Cape coastal flora, comprising 1,365 species, is taxonomically dominated by the Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Iridaceae, withErica,AspalathusandAgathosmabeing the most speciose genera. In terms of growth-form mix, there is a roughly equal split between herbaceous and woody species, the former dominated by geophytes and forbs, the latter by dwarf and low shrubs. Species associated with the Fynbos biome constitute the bulk of the flora, while the Subtropical Thicket and Wetland biomes also house a substantial number of species. The Cape coastal flora is a distinctly southern African assemblage, with 61% of species belonging to southern African lineages (including 35% of species with Cape affinity) and 59% being endemic to the CFR. Unique among floras from the Cape and coastal Mediterranean-climate regions is the relatively high proportion of species associated with tropical lineages, several of which are restricted to calcareous substrata of the CFR. The endemic, calcicolous component of the flora, constituting 40% of species, represents 6% of the Cape’s regional plant diversity—high tallies compared to other biodiversity hotspots. Most coastal-flora endemics emerged during the Plio–Pleistocene as a product of ecological speciation upon the colonization of calcareous substrata, with the calcifugous fynbos floras of montane acid substrata being the most significant source of this diversification, especially on the typically shallow soils of calcarenite landscapes. On the other hand, renosterveld floras, associated with edaphically benign soils that are widespread on the CFR lowlands, have not been a major source of lineages to the coastal flora. Our findings suggest that, over and above the strong pH gradient that exists on calcareous substrata, soil depth and texture may act as important edaphic filters to incorporating lineages from floras on juxtaposed substrata in the CFR.
Genome-wide analysis of BBX gene family in Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum)
Authors: Zhao Jiali , Li Hongyou , Huang Juan , Shi Taoxiong , Meng Ziye , Chen Qingfu , Deng Jiao
Published: August 2021

BBX (B-box), a zinc finger transcription factor with one or two B-box domains, plays an important role in plant photomorphogenesis, growth, and development as well as response to environmental changes. In this study, 28 Tartary buckwheat BBX (FtBBX) genes were identified and screened using a comparison program. Their physicochemical properties, gene structures, conserved motifs, distribution in chromosomal, and phylogeny of the coding proteins, as well as their expression patterns, were analyzed. In addition, multiple collinearity analysis in three monocots and three dicot species illustrated that the BBX proteins identified from monocots clustered separately from those of dicots. Moreover, the expression of 11 candidate BBX genes with probable involvement in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis was analyzed in the sprouts of Tartary buckwheat during light treatment. The results of gene structure analysis showed that all the 28 BBX genes contained B-box domain, three genes lacked introns, and these genes were unevenly distributed on the other seven chromosomes except for chromosome 6. The 28 proteins contained 10 conserved motifs and could be divided into five subfamilies. BBX genes of Tartary buckwheat showed varying expression under different conditions demonstrating that FtBBXs might play important roles in Tartary buckwheat growth and development. This study lays a foundation for further understanding of Tartary buckwheat BBX genes and their functions in growth and development as well as regulation of pigmentation in Tartary buckwheat.
Evaluation of Stiff Porridge (Ruam nahan) Produced from Composite Flour Blends of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) and African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa)
Authors: Dendegh T. A. , Yelmi B. M. , Dendegh R. A.
Published: August 2021

Quality attributes of stiff porridges prepared from Pearl millet and African Yam Bean (AYB) flour blends were studied. Various ratios such as A (100% pearl millet), B (90:10), C (80:20), D (70:30), E (60:40) and F (50:50) of pearl millet and African Yam Bean (AYB) composite flours were mixed and analyzed for functional, proximate composition, mineral elements and sensory properties. The blends were then prepared into stiff porridges for sensory evaluation using a 20-man sensory panel. Substitution of African Yam Bean with Pearl Millet led to increases in moisture (24.29 to 37.50%) protein (10.90 to 19.70%), fibre (1.30 to 2.00%), Ash (0.43 to 0.55%) and fat (3.80 to 5.20%) while the carbohydrate content of the blends decreased (from 62.07 to 39.85%) respectively. Functional properties such as bulk density decreased with increase in AYB from (1.80 to 0.72 g/ml, swelling index also increases from 0.75 to 0.56 g/ml, water absorption capacity decreases from 2.20 to 2.64 g/ml) and Least Gelation Concentration (6%). The sensory attributes of stiff porridges were not adversely affected by African Yam Bean flour. Therefore, it should be possible to incorporate up to 50% of legumes such as African Yam Bean with Pearl Millet in the preparation of stiff porridges.
The Implication of NESREA Act and Financial Performance on Environmental Disclosure in Nigeria
Authors: Abdullahi Aminu , Auwal Babangida Mohammed
Published: August 2021

The study assesses the implication of compliance and enforcement of the NESREA Act, profitability, and Growth on environmental disclosure of cement companies in Nigeria. Secondary data comprising financial and non-financial information were source from annual accounts and reports of the sample companies, spanning a period of five years (2015 – 2019). Panel regression models were considered in assessing the implication of the variables under study. The findings reveal that NDI has a significant P-value which signifies that compliance with NESREA Act increases environmental disclosure by 2.9%. ROA also exerts a significant impact on environmental disclosure. This implies that a 1% increase in the profitability of the sample companies will increase environmental disclosure by 1.4%. Firm Size is also positive and exerts significant impact, by implication, the result suggested that an increase in the total revenue will lead to about 9% increase in environmental disclosure. Hence the study recommends among others that measuring, treatment, disclosure, and reporting of environmental activities need to be standardized and mandated to give a true and fair view of environmental management practices. These will not only protect the environment but will also enhance the firm's competitiveness and subsequently lead to high corporate performance.
Determination of the Mechanism of Nucleophilic Reaction of Fenitrothion Using Substituted Phenoxide Nucleophiles in Aqueous Media
Authors: Amadi E. G. , Egwuatu C. I. , Okoro C. U. , Obumselu F. O. , Onuoha M. U.
Published: August 2021

The mechanism of the nucleophilic displacement reaction at the phosphorus centre of organophosphates was determined. Phenoxide nucleophiles were reacted with fenitrothion (O,O-dimethyl O-(3-methyl-4-nitrophenyl) phosphorothioate) in water at 25oC and pseudo-first order rate constant measurements taken. Second-order rate constant (kNuc) was determined for the different concentrations of nucleophiles while the second-order rate constant (klg) for the investigation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxide ion with and series of aryl phosphorothioate esters was also determined. Linear free energy relationship was further determined using the Brϕnsted-type plot. The plots are linear over a range of pKaNuc of 7.15-11.10 that straddles the pKa of the leaving 3-methyl-4-nitrophenoxide ion (pKa = 7.20) with statistically acceptable linear correlations (R2 = 0.987) and (R2 = 0.980). The linearity in the traditional Brϕnsted-type plots shows the sensitivity of the nucleophilic displacement to the basicity of the nucleophiles and hence is consistent with a single transition-state mechanism whose barrier to decomposition is low hence concerted. Analysis of the values of βNuc, βLg and βeq (0.734) with the effective charge distribution in the transition state shows that it has no positive character. The Leffler index presents bond formation being slightly ahead of bond rupture.
Effect of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del.) Seed Oil on Liver and Kidney Biomakers of Albino Rat
Authors: Nwaogu Jude , Fakai Isah Musa , Abdullahi Ibrahim
Published: August 2021

Vegetable oil has been used for cocking and ethnomedicinal purpose in developing countries. The aim of this research was to determine the toxicological effect of Balanites aegytiaca seed oil in albino rats. Acute and sub chronic toxicological evaluations were carried out on albino rats. The albino rats were divided into six experimental groups (n = 6 albino rats/ group). Five different doses of Balanites aegytiaca seed oil; 1000mg/kg, 2000mg/kg, 3000mg/kg, 4000mg/kg and 5000mg/kg were administered orally (gavage) to groups 2 – 6 respectively, once per day for 28 consecutive days. While control group received saline with Tween® 80 2%. Standard laboratory methods were used to assess liver and kidney functions indices. The acute toxicity screening revealed that the Balanite aegyptiaca seed oil (BASO) was non-toxic with LD 50 above 5000mg/kg. The liver function test parameters revealed non-significant (p>0.05) difference in serum AST and ALT activities between control group and treated groups. However, there is significant (p<0.05) increased of serum ALP activity in treated groups when compared to normal control group. Serum albumin concentration significantly (p<0.05) decreased in treated groups when compared to normal control group.  No significant difference (P>0.05) in the concentration of total protein, total and direct bilirubin observed in treated groups when compared to normal control group. While kidney function test parameters showed alterations in serum creatinine and Potassium concentrations in treated groups compared to normal control group. Oral administration of B. aegyptiaca seed oil for 21 days did not displayed signs organs damage. The results suggest that prolonged consumption of Balanites aegytiaca seed oil could not cause adverse effects on the liver and kidney organs.
Thidiazuron with Mineral Oil as Alternative Bud Break Promoter for Apple Trees
Authors: Petri José Luiz , Sezerino André Amarildo , Fenili Cristhian Leonardo , Gabardo Gentil Carneiro
Published: August 2021

Aims: This work aims to evaluate the efficiency of Revent® 500 SC (Thidiazuron) concentrations as a bud breaker promoter in apple trees, cv. Maxi Gala and Supreme Fuji, through phenology, sprouting of buds, fruit set and production per plant.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiments were carried out in southern Brazil, municipality of Caçador / SC, during the seasons from 2017 to 2019, in the cultivars Fuji Suprema and Maxi Gala / Marubakaido / M9.

Methodology: The treatments were 1. Control (without application); 2. Mineral Oil (MO) 3.5% + Hydrogenated Cyanamide (HC) 0.35%; 3. MO 3.5% + HC 0.5%; 4. MO 3.5% + Thidiazuron (TDZ) 0.005%; 5. MO 3.5% + TDZ 0.01%; 6. MO 3.5% + TDZ 0.015%; 7.MO 3.5% + TDZ 0.02%; 8.MO 3.5% + TDZ 0.025%, applied in stages B and C. Several variables were evaluated such as phenology, sprouting of axillary and terminal buds, fruit set, production per plant and average fruit mass.

Results: All treatments with bud breakers advanced the phenological stages in relation to the control in the three years. In the sprouting of the axillary and terminal buds, all treatments were superior to the control. TDZ treatments showed higher sprouting of axillary buds in 2017/18 compared to standard treatments with hydrogenated cyanamide. In plant production, the treatment MO 3.5% + TDZ 0.02% was higher than the other treatments in the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, in both cultivars. TDZ associated with mineral oil is efficient in inducing the sprouting of ‘Maxi Gala’ and ‘Fuji Suprema’ apple trees and can be used to recover sprouts from previous years.
Effect of Cough Trick Technique on Vaccination Prick Pain among Preschool Children
Authors: Thenmozhi P. , Roshini B. Aparna
Published: August 2021

Aims: To determine the effectiveness of the Cough trick technique on vaccination prick pain among preschool children.

Study Design: Quantitative approach with true experimental research design.

Place and Duration of Study: Pranav baby clinic, Chennai, from May 2021 to June 2021.

Methodology: True experimental post-test only research design was adopted to conduct the study with a samples of 40 children. Children were randomly allocated into the experimental group (n=20) and the control group (n=20). Demographic variables were collected from mothers of preschoolers using a structured questionnaire. The cough trick technique was administered to the experimental group during intramuscular vaccination whereas the control group received the regular technique of the intramuscular vaccination. The post-test level of pain was assessed by FLACC scale for both the group. The data were tabulated and analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS statistical package.

Results: The result of the study shows that in the experimental group, 14(70%) had mild pain and 6(20%) had no vaccination prick pain whereas in the control group, 14(70%) had severe pain and 6(20%) had moderate vaccination prick pain. Independent‘t’ test reveals that there is a significant difference in the level of pain after administration of the cough trick technique between the experimental and control at the level of  P<0.05.

Conclusion: The finding of the present study concludes that cough trick technique is an effective and easy method to minimize and reduce the pain during intramuscular vaccination. It is a simple distraction technique that can be effective in helping children cope with the pain of immunization.
Globalnoe i lokalnoe gravitatsionniye krasnie smeshcheniya v kosmologii i ih sledstviya dlya teorii i nablyudeniy
Authors:   Centre for Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, Zakir Zahid
Published: August 2021

Сформулирована последовательная теория гравитационного красного смещения (ГКС) в космологии. Глобальное ГКС возникает из-за ослабления гравитационного замедления времени при уменьшении плотности вещества за время движения фотонов. Локальный ГКС возникает из-за ослабления гравитации сферы между наблюдателем и источником в расширяющемся мире, так как фотоны, испускаемые при меньшем радиусе, прибывают при большем. При этом в статическом мире обмен фотонами на периферии этой сферы не ведёт к ГКС. Во всех случаях фотоны от наблюдателя к источнику имеют тот же ГКС, что и фотоны от источника к наблюдателю, что согласуется с космологическим принципом. Рассмотрены следствия локальной и глобальной ГКС для космологических моделей и их параметров, а также поправки к данным по далёким объектам и реликтовом фоне. В Приложении показана несостоятельность двух прежних трактовок гравитационного сдвига в космологии. Они: а) не учитывали глобальный ГКС; б) получали локальный ГКС не из поля сферы между источником и наблюдателем, а из полей сфер вокруг одного из них; в) противоречили друг другу (знаки сдвигов обратные); г) нарушали космологический принцип (изменение направления распространения меняет знак сдвига) и д) были основаны на заблуждении, что фридмановская модель якобы уже содержит гравитационное смещение.
Global and local gravitational redshifts in cosmology and their consequences for theory and observations
Authors:   Centre for Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, Zakir Zahid
Published: August 2021

A consistent theory of gravitational redshift in cosmology (GRC) is formulated. The global GRC arises due to weakening of gravitational time dilation due to decreasing of matter density during the propagation time of photons. In the expanding world the local GRC arises due to the weakening of gravity of the sphere between observer and source, since photons emitted at a smaller radius arrive at a larger one. In static world there is no GRC at the exchange of photons at the periphery of this sphere. In any case photons from observer to source have the same GRC as photons from source to observer, which is in agreement with the cosmological principle. Consequences of the local and global GRC for cosmological models and their parameters, as well as corrections to data on distant objects and CMB, are considered. In Appendix the inconsistency of two former treatments of the gravitational frequency shift in cosmology is shown. They: a) did not take into account the global GRC; b) derived the local GRC not from the field of the sphere between the source and observer, but from the field of spheres around one of them; c) contradicted each other (the signs of shifts are opposite); d) violated cosmological principle (changing the propagation direction changes the sign of shift) and e) were based on the delusion that the Friedmann model supposedly contains the gravitational shift.
An updated classification and mechanistic insights into ligand binding of the substrate‐binding proteins
Authors: Chandravanshi Monika , Tripathi Sisir Kant , Kanaujia Shankar Prasad
Published: August 2021

Substrate‐binding proteins (SBPs) mediate ligand translocation and have been classified into seven clusters (A‐G). Although the substrate specificities of these clusters are known to some extent, their ligand‐binding mechanism(s) remain(s) incompletely understood. In this study, the list of SBPs belonging to different clusters was updated (764 SBPs) compared to the previously reported study (504 SBPs). Furthermore, a new cluster referred to as cluster H was identified. Results reveal that SBPs follow different ligand‐binding mechanisms. Intriguingly, the majority of the SBPs follow the ‘one domain movement’ rather than the well‐known ‘Venus Fly‐trap’ mechanism. Moreover, SBPs of a few clusters display subdomain conformational movement rather than the complete movement of the N‐ and C‐terminal domains.
Cancer‐associated fibroblasts educate normal fibroblasts to facilitate cancer cell spreading and T‐cell suppression
Authors: Itoh Go , Takagane Kurara , Fukushi Yuma , Kuriyama Sei , Umakoshi Michinobu , Goto Akiteru , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Yashiro Masakazu , Tanaka Masamitsu
Published: August 2021

In some tumors, a small number of cancer cells are scattered in a large fibrotic stroma. Here, we demonstrate a novel mechanism for expansion of pro‐tumor fibroblasts via cancer‐associated fibroblast (CAF)‐mediated education of normal fibroblasts (NFs). When NFs were incubated with conditioned medium from CAFs, the resulting CAF‐educated fibroblasts (CEFs) generated reactive oxygen species, which induced NF‐κB‐mediated expression of inflammatory cytokines and the extracellular matrix protein asporin (ASPN), while expression of a common CAF marker gene, α‐SMA, was not increased. ASPN further increased CEF expression of downstream molecules, including indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO‐1), kynureninase (KYNU), and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A). These CEFs induce cytocidal effects against CD8+ T cells and IGF‐I activation in cancer cells. CEFs were generated without cancer cells by the direct mixture of NFs and CAFs in mouse xenografts, and once CEFs were generated, they sequentially educated NFs, leading to continuous generation of CEFs. In diffuse‐type gastric cancers, ASPNhigh/IDO‐1high/KYNUhigh/α‐SMA− CEFs were located at the distal invading front. These CEFs expanded in the fibrotic stroma and caused dissemination of cancer cells. ASPN may therefore be a key molecule in facilitating tumor spreading and T‐cell suppression.
Recent Advances in Metal‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Reactions of Vinyl Benzoxazinanones
Authors: Tian Ye , Duan Meibo , Liu Jialu , Fu Siyu , Dong Kuan , Yue Hao , Hou Yunlei , Zhao Yanfang
Published: August 2021

Vinyl benzoxazinanones as versatile building blocks can undergo transition‐metal‐catalyzed decarboxylation to enable various kinds of interesting transformations by various [4+n], transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H allylation of arenes and other types of annulations. Herein, we reviewed the latest research progress in the research and application of vinyl benzoxazinones in metal‐catalyzed decarboxylative reactions to illustrate their synthetic value.

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Construction of Core–Shell MOF@COF Hybrids with Controllable Morphology Adjustment of COF Shell as a Novel Platform for Photocatalytic Cascade Reactions
Authors: Zhang Meng‐Yao , Li Jun‐Kang , Wang Rui , Zhao Shu‐Na , Zang Shuang‐Quan , Mak Thomas C. W.
Published: August 2021

Recently, novel core–shell MOF@COF hybrids display excellent performance in various fields because of their inherited advantages from their parent MOFs and/or COFs. However, it is still a grand challenge to adjust the morphology of MOFs and/or COFs for consequent performance improvement. Herein, a Ti‐MOF@TpTt hybrid coated with ultra‐thin COF nanobelt, which is different from the fibrillar‐like parent COF, is successfully synthesized through a sequential growth strategy. The as‐obtained Pd decorated Ti‐MOF@TpTt catalyst exhibits much higher photocatalytic performance than those of Ti‐MOF, TpTt‐COF, and Ti‐MOF@TpTt hybrids with fibrillar‐like COF shell for the photocatalytic cascade reactions of ammonia borane (AB) hydrolysis and nitroarenes hydrogenation. These can be attributed to its high BET surface area, core–shell structure, and type II heterojunction, which offers more accessible active sites and improves the separation efficiency of photo‐generated carriers. Finally, the possible mechanisms of the cascade reaction are also proposed to well explain the improved performance of this photocatalytic system. This work presents a constructive route for designing core–shell MOF@COF hybrids with controllable morphology adjustment of COF shell, leading to the improved photocatalytic ability to broaden the applications of MOF/COF hybrid materials.
Crosslinking improved ion transport in polymer inclusion membrane‐electrodialysis process and the underlying mechanism
Authors: Wang Baoying , Lang Qiaolin , Tan Ming , Jiang Heqing , Wang Lingyun , Liu Yang , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2021

Electric field intensification has been demonstrated as an effective strategy for facilitating ion transfer and separation in polymer inclusion membrane (PIM) involved processes. However, it is still a challenge to develop compatible PIMs with high performance and to reveal the underlying mechanisms. Herein, crosslinked PIMs with different base polymers have been employed in PIM‐electrodialysis processes. Cross‐linked cellulose triacetate (CTA) based PIMs exhibited significant improvement in Cr(VI) transport, which permeability coefficient was 5.9 times larger than the non‐cross‐linked counterpart. The characterizations of cross‐linked PIMs showed higher hydrophilicity and lower membrane area resistance. Furthermore, cross‐linked polymeric network inside CTA based PIMs structure increased their crystallinity, thus supporting the fixed‐site jumping mechanism, thereby enabling ions to be transported directly in a manner of continuous pathway at low current density. This study shed light on further improvement of efficient ion transport and gave insights into the mechanism understanding in PIM‐ED systems.
Base‐Catalyzed Selective Deuteration of Alkynes
Authors: Kumar Shiv , Patel Monika , Verma Akhilesh K.
Published: August 2021

Deuteration of organic molecules has gained considerable importance in medicinal chemistry. A mild concept of inducing 2H isotope stoichiometrically into terminal alkynes was developed in KOH‐DMSO‐d6 medium. The four pairs of substrate scopes, namely aromatic, aliphatic, dialkynes, and alcohol/amine‐substituted alkyne were readily switchable from hydrogen to deuterium. Mild reaction condition, no requirement of column chromatography; environment‐friendly nature of the protocol increases the synthetic utility of the developed chemistry. The procedure avoids the use of expensive transition‐metal catalysts and should find attention in academia as well as in pharmaceuticals.
Tris‐isocyanide copper(I) complex enabling copper azide‐alkyne cycloaddition in neat conditions
Authors: Ferraro Valentina , Sole Roberto , Bortoluzzi Marco , Beghetto Valentina , Castro Jesús
Published: August 2021

The three‐coordinated homoleptic Cu(I) complex with 2,6‐dimethylphenyl isocyanide in the coordination sphere was easily synthesized and isolated as tetrafluoroborate salt. The structure of the compound was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The complex is highly stable, active and selective toward the copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition, working in neat conditions and in the absence of bases at room temperature. Substrate scope was assessed by testing several different alkynes and azides. In most cases the corresponding 1,4‐disubstituted‐1,2,3‐triazoles were isolated in high yields.
High‐efficiency fluorescent probe constructed by Cd(II) complex for detecting nitro compounds and antibiotics
Authors: Li Yong , Tian Xu , Zhang Jia , Qiu Liping , Wang Xia , Wu Shuangyan , Zhang Ying , Zhu Mingchang , Gao Enjun
Published: August 2021

The excessive use of nitro compounds and antibiotics has made them the main pollutants in the water environment. It is necessary and challenging to find an effective method to monitor them. Herein, a novel Cd(II) metal–organic complex (MOC) with one‐dimensional structure [Cd(L)2(H2O)2]·8H2O [HL = 2,4‐bis (triazol‐1‐yl) benzoic acid] has been synthesized and characterized. The complex can be used as a fluorescence sensor to detect nitroimidazole antibiotics and p‐nitrophenol in aqueous solutions. The limit of detection (LOD) of p‐nitrophenol and nitroimidazole antibiotics (metronidazole, ornidazole, dimethylimidazole) are 0.04, 0.02, 0.07, and 0.08 μM, respectively. The complex still maintains high reproducibility after five cycles. In summary, due to the strong stability, high sensitivity, and excellent selectivity of the synthesized complex, it provides a convenient method for the development of analytical platforms for detecting water pollutants.
Highly stretchable silicone rubber nanocomposites incorporated with oleic acid‐modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Zeng Yu , Zhou Neng , Xiong Chenhan , Huang Zhiyong , Du Guoping , Fan Zhaoyang , Chen Nan
Published: August 2021

Silicone rubber composites have attracted wide attention due to their excellent thermal stability and climate resistance. However, it is still a challenge to synthesize these composites with high tensile property without external stimulation. Meanwhile, incorporation of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles to fabricate magnetic nanocomposites have a broad application prospect. In the present work, aiming to improve the mechanical and magnetic properties of the silicone rubber composite, fumed silica and different content of oleic acid‐modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles are well dispersed in the silicone rubber matrix. The synthesized nanocomposites exhibit excellent thermal stability, superelasticity, superparamagnetic property, and sensitive magnetic response. In particular, a high elongation at break of 1931%, a low storage modulus of 0.56 MPa and a deflection of 27 mm under an applied magnetic field of 1.31 Oe are obtained in the silicone rubber nanocomposite. The present work provides a feasible way to prepare silicone rubber matrix nanocomposites with excellent mechanical and magnetic performance.
The prevalence and incidence of early‐onset dementia among adults with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Vivanti Giacomo , Tao Sha , Lyall Kristen , Robins Diana L. , Shea Lindsay L.
Published: August 2021

The prevalence and incidence of early‐onset dementia among adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is currently unknown. In this case–control study, the prevalence and incidence of early‐onset dementia in individuals with ASD was examined during 2008–2012 using Medicaid Analytic eXtract files. Participants were 30–64 year‐old adults who were Medicaid beneficiaries and had either a diagnosis of ASD only (n = 12,648), a diagnosis of ASD with co‐occurring intellectual disability (ID) (n = 26,168), a diagnosis of ID without ASD (n = 406,570), or no ASD nor ID diagnoses (n = 798,828). The 5‐year prevalence of dementia was 4.04% among adults with ASD only, and 5.22% for those with ASD and co‐occurring ID. This prevalence was higher compared to the prevalence of dementia in individuals with no ASD and no ID (0.97%), but lower compared to individuals with ID only (7.10%). Risk factors associated with the increased prevalence in the general population were similarly associated with the increased risk of dementia in individuals with ASD. Even after adjusting for these risk factors, compared to the general population, dementia was found to occur more frequently in individuals with ASD only (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.69–2.28), as well as individuals with ASD and co‐occurring ID (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.89; 95% CI, 2.62–3.17). In conclusion, adults with ASD under the age of 65 were approximately 2.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with dementia compared to the general population in our study.

Lay Summary

It is unclear whether adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at higher risk of being diagnosed with early‐onset dementia compared to those who are not on the autism spectrum. In this study we examined for the first time the nationwide prevalence and incidence of Alzheimer's Disease and other types of dementia in ASD in a sample of adults with ASD aged 30–64 years who were enrolled in Medicaid, the largest insurer of behavioral health services in the US. Medicaid claims data, which include information on the diagnoses that beneficiaries receive, suggested that the adults with ASD were approximately 2.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with early‐onset Alzheimer's disease and related dementias compared to the general population.
Exposure assessment for Cox proportional hazards cure models with interval‐censored survival data
Authors: Wang Wei , Cong Ning , Ye Aijun , Zhang Hui , Zhang Bo
Published: August 2021

Mixture cure models have been developed as an effective tool to analyze failure time data with a cure fraction. Used in conjunction with the logistic regression model, this model allows covariate‐adjusted inference of an exposure effect on the cured probability and the hazard of failure for the uncured subjects. However, the covariate‐adjusted inference for the overall exposure effect is not directly provided. In this paper, we describe a Cox proportional hazards cure model to analyze interval‐censored survival data in the presence of a cured fraction and then apply a post‐estimation approach by using model‐predicted estimates difference to assess the overall exposure effect on the restricted mean survival time scale. For baseline hazard/survival function estimation, simple parametric models as fractional polynomials or restricted cubic splines are utilized to approximate the baseline logarithm cumulative hazard function, or, alternatively, the full likelihood is specified through a piecewise linear approximation for the cumulative baseline hazard function. Simulation studies were conducted to demonstrate the unbiasedness of both estimation methods for the overall exposure effect estimates over various baseline hazard distribution shapes. The methods are applied to analyze the interval‐censored relapse time data from a smoking cessation study.
Genome sequencing guide: An introductory toolbox to whole‐genome analysis methods
Authors: Burian Alexis N. , Zhao Wufan , Lo Te‐Wen , Thurtle‐Schmidt Deborah M.
Published: August 2021

To fully appreciate genetics, one must understand the link between genotype (DNA sequence) and phenotype (observable characteristics). Advances in high‐throughput genomic sequencing technologies and applications, so‐called “‐omics,” have made genetic sequencing readily available across fields in biology from applications in non‐traditional study organisms to precision medicine. Thus, understanding these tools is critical for any biologist, especially those early in their career. This comprehensive review discusses the chronological development of different sequencing methods, the bioinformatics steps to analyzing this data, and social and ethical issues raised by these techniques that must be discussed and evaluated, including anticipatory guides and discussion questions for active engagement in the classroom. Additionally, the Supporting Information includes a case study to apply technical and ethical concepts from the text.
The relationship between muscle size, obesity, body fat ratio, pain and disability in individuals with and without nonspecific low back pain
Authors: Uçar İlyas , Karartı Caner , Cüce İsa , Veziroğlu Enes , Özüdoğru Anıl , Koçak Fatmanur Aybala , Dadalı Yeliz
Published: August 2021

Patients with nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) may face motor control problems and health disability barriers during various tasks. However, studies investigating the extent of these disadvantages, and possible associated factors are quite limited in patients with NSLBP. To compare motor control performances and physical assessment domains between patients with NSLBP and asymptomatic controls. Twenty‐seven patients with NSBLP and 27 age‐ and sex‐matched asymptomatic controls participated in this cross‐sectional study. Ultrasonographic imaging was used to determine abdominal and multifidus muscles thicknesses and adipose tissue rate. Visual analog scale was used to assess LBP severity. Body mass index (BMI) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores of the participants were physical assessment domains of LBP. BMI values were greater in the NSLBP group compared to the asymptomatic participants. ANCOVA revealed a significant interaction effect regarding external abdominal oblique and multifidus lumborum muscles thickness, and abdominal adipose tissue (p = 0.015; p = 0.001; p = 0.006), respectively in terms of two groups. The thicknesses of these muscles were lesser in the NSLBP group compared with the control group. Similarly, abdominal adipose tissue was higher in the NSLBP group. The stepwise multiple regression analysis demonstrated that the Oswestry Disability Index and abdominal adipose tissue rate were significant and independent factors of the low back pain severity with 73.5% of the variance. The study results indicate that increased disability and fat infiltration are possible determinants influencing pain severity, although further research is required. Examining musculoskeletal properties of lumbar region could provide information about the limitation in patients with NSBLP.
Engineering a Carbonyl Reductase as a Potential Tool for the Synthesis of Chiral α‐Tetralinols
Authors: Li Aipeng , Ting Wang , Yang Ke , Zhang Xuanshuo , Yin Dongming , Qin Yong , Zhang Lianbing
Published: August 2021

Tailoring of enzyme toward α‐tetralones, a class of bulky‐bulky ketones, is still a challenge. In this work, the mutants of carbonyl reductase BaSDR1 with improved catalytic performance toward α‐tetralone 1 a were obtained by adjusting the steric hindrance and hydrophobicity of the residues that affect the approach of α‐tetralone with the catalytic residues. The designed mutants also showed enhanced catalytic performance toward halogenated α‐tetralones 2 a–6 a. Remarkably, the activity of the mutant Q237V/I291F toward 7‐fluoro‐α‐tetralone 5 a was 16.3‐fold higher than the wildtype enzyme with improved stereoselectivity (98.8 % ee). More notably, the mutants Q139S and Q139S/V187S exhibited decreased or reversed stereoselectivity toward α‐tetralone 1 a, 5‐bromo‐α‐tetralone 2 a, 7‐fluoro‐α‐tetralone 5 a and 7‐chloro‐α‐tetralone 6 a, while the relatively high ee values were obtained in the presence of 6‐chloro‐α‐tetralone 3 a and 6‐bromo‐α‐tetralone 4 a as substrates. Further analysis showed the larger size of the substrates was beneficial for the substrates binding to the active cavity with a more specific binding mode, which endows the reaction with higher stereoselectivity. Moreover, the recombinant E. coli expressing the variant Q237V/I291F successfully catalyzed the reduction of a high concentration 7‐fluoro‐α‐tetralone 5 a. These results not only offered a potential tool for chiral α‐tetralols, but also provided guiding information for the enzyme engineering toward bulky‐bulky ketones.
Silicalite‐1 Supported ZnO as an Efficient Catalyst for Direct Propane Dehydrogenation
Authors: Liu Jie , Liu Yong , Liu Hongchao , Fu Yi , Chen Zhiyang , Zhu Wenliang
Published: August 2021

Direct propane dehydrogenation (PDH) is an attractive on‐purpose strategy for propylene production. Compared with high‐priced Platinum and toxic Chromium oxide, ZnO based catalysts attract wide attention due to its low‐cost and environment‐friendly character. Herein we report silicalite‐1 supported ZnO catalysts for PDH reaction. They exhibited an excellent catalytic performance. The catalyst with 5 wt% Zn exhibited the best propane yield with propane conversion reaching 49 % and propylene selectivity around 90 % at a space velocity of 5000 ml ⋅ g−1 ⋅ h−1. Characterization with N2 adsorption, XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS, NH3‐TPD, UV–vis, XPS, 29Si MAS NMR, FT‐IR, Py‐IR and TGA reveal that the high activity and stability can be attributed to the dispersed ZnO species due to the interaction between silanol nests of silicalite‐1 support and ZnO species. This study may open a promising way for development of highly efficient PDH catalysts.
Utilization of renewable formic acid from lignocellulosic biomass for the selective hydrogenation and/or N‐methylation
Authors: Zhou Chao‐Zheng , Zhao Yu‐Rou , Tan Fang‐Fang , Guo Yan‐Jun , Li Yang
Published: August 2021

Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant renewable sources in nature. Herein, we have developed the utilization of renewable formic acid from lignocellulosic biomass as a hydrogen source and a carbon source for the selective hydrogenation and further N‐methylation of various quinolines and the derivatives, various indoles under mild conditions in high efficiencies. N‐methylation of various anilines is also developed. Mechanistic studies indicate that the hydrogenation occurs via a transfer hydrogenation pathway.