bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlling Emissive Properties by Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonds: Alkyl and Aryl meso‐Substituted Porphycenes
Authors: Listkowski Arkadiusz , Masiera Natalia , Kijak Michał , Luboradzki Roman , Leśniewska Barbara , Waluk Jacek
Published: February 2021

Porphycene, a porphyrin isomer, is an efficient fluorophore. However, four‐fold meso substitution with alkyl groups decreases the fluorescence quantum yield by orders of magnitude. For aryl substituents, this effect is small. To explain this difference, we have synthesized and studied a mixed aryl‐alkyl‐substituted compound, 9,20‐diphenyl‐10,19‐dimethylporphycene, as well as the 9,20‐diphenyl and 9,20‐dimethyl derivatives. Analysis of the structural, spectroscopic, and photophysical data of the six porphycenes, combined with quantum chemical calculations, shows a clear correlation between the strength of the intramolecular NH⋅⋅⋅N hydrogen bonds and the efficiency of the radiationless depopulation of the lowest‐excited singlet state. This result led us to propose a model in which the delocalization of the inner protons in the cavity of the macrocycle is responsible for the nonradiative deactivation channel. The applicability of the model is confirmed by the literature data for other alkyl‐ or aryl‐substituted porphycenes. The finding of a correlation between structural and emissive characteristics enables a rational design of porphycenes with desired photophysical properties.
Uranium versus Thorium: Synthesis and Reactivity of [η5‐1,2,4‐(Me3C)3C5H2]2U[η2‐C2Ph2]
Authors: Wang Deqiang , Ding Wanjian , Hou Guohua , Zi Guofu , Walter Marc D.
Published: February 2021

The synthesis, electronic structure, and reactivity of a uranium metallacyclopropene were comprehensively studied. Addition of diphenylacetylene (PhC≡CPh) to the uranium phosphinidene metallocene [η5‐1,2,4‐(Me3C)3C5H2]2U=P‐2,4,6‐tBu3C6H2 (1) yields the stable uranium metallacyclopropene, [η5‐1,2,4‐(Me3C)3C5H2]2U[η2‐C2Ph2] (2). Based on density functional theory (DFT) results the 5f orbital contributions to the bonding within the metallacyclopropene U‐(η2‐C=C) moiety increases significantly compared to the related ThIV compound [η5‐1,2,4‐(Me3C)3C5H2]2Th[η2‐C2Ph2], which also results in more covalent bonds between the [η5‐1,2,4‐(Me3C)3C5H2]2U2+ and [η2‐C2Ph2]2− fragments. Although the thorium and uranium complexes are structurally closely related, different reaction patterns are therefore observed. For example, 2 reacts as a masked synthon for the low‐valent uranium(II) metallocene [η5‐1,2,4‐(Me3C)3C5H2]2UII when reacted with Ph2E2 (E=S, Se), alkynes and a variety of hetero‐unsaturated molecules such as imines, ketazine, bipy, nitriles, organic azides, and azo derivatives. In contrast, five‐membered metallaheterocycles are accessible when 2 is treated with isothiocyanate, aldehydes, and ketones.
Direct Cyclopropanation of α‐Cyano β‐Aryl Alkanes by Light‐Mediated Single Electron Transfer Between Donor–Acceptor Pairs
Authors: Li Jing , Lear Martin J. , Hayashi Yujiro
Published: February 2021

Cyclopropanes are traditionally prepared by the formal [2+1] addition of carbene or radical based C1 units to alkenes. In contrast, the one‐pot intermolecular cyclopropanation of alkanes by redox active C1 units has remained unrealised. Herein, we achieved this process simply by exposing β‐aryl propionitriles and C1 radical precursors (N‐oxy esters) to base and blue light. The overall process is redox‐neutral and a photocatalyst, whether metal‐ or organic‐based, is not required. Our findings support that single electron transfer (SET) from the α‐cyano carbanion of the propionitrile to the N‐oxy ester is facilitated by blue‐light via their electron donor–acceptor (EDA) complex. The α‐cyano carbon radical thus formed can then lose a β‐proton to form a π‐resonance stabilised radical anion that preferentially couples at the benzylic β‐position with a decarboxylated C1 radical unit. This new transition metal‐free chemistry tolerates both electron rich and electron deficient (hetero)aryl systems, even sulfide or alkene functionality, to afford a range of cis‐aryl/cyano cyclopropanes bearing congested tetrasubstituted quaternary carbons.
New Amines and Activation Modes in Asymmetric Aminocatalysis
Authors: Chen Zhi‐Chao , Du Wei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: February 2021

Asymmetric aminocatalysis has become one of the most powerful strategies for the transformations of carbonyl substances over the past two decades. Here, we describe the research from our laboratory that significantly expands the horizon of aminocatalysis. It includes the development and application of cinchona‐based primary amines, fruitful reactions based on HOMO‐raising strategy, and the disclosure of amine/thiol double activation catalysis.

What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group?

Cinchona‐based primary amine catalysts and trienamine activation mode.

How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers?

I got to know asymmetric catalysis when I began to pursue my PhD study, and realized the importance and beauty of chiral substances. My key experiences in research are: try something different, and be sensitive to the difference.

How do you supervise your students?

Always keep honest, and try to understand what you are doing.

What are your hobbies?

Gardening and badminton.

How do you keep balance between research and family?

Keep communicating with family members.

Who influences you mostly in your life?

My PhD director Prof. Yao‐Zhong Jiang.
Electrochemical Capture and Storage of CO2 as Calcium Carbonate
Authors: Oloye Olawale , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: February 2021

A carbon dioxide capture, conversion, and utilization technology has been developed that can be powered by renewable energy with the potential to mitigate CO2 emissions. This relies on an electrochemical process whereby the dissolution of carbon dioxide into carbonate ions is accelerated by a locally induced pH change at the cathode. The carbonate ions can then complex with metal cations, such as Ca2+, Sr2+, or Mn2+, present in solution to form their respective metal carbonates, which precipitate out of solution. To ensure the cathode is not fouled by deposition of the insulating metal carbonate, the process is operated under hydrogen evolution conditions, thereby alleviating any significant attachment of the solid to the electrode. This process is demonstrated in CO2‐saturated solutions while the possibility of direct air capture is also shown, where the precipitation of CaCO3 from atmospherically dissolved CO2 during electrolysis is observed. The latter process can be significantly enhanced by using 5 vol.% of monoethanolamine (MEA) in the electrochemical cell. Finally, the process is investigated using seawater, which is also successful after the initial precipitation of metal sulfates from solution. In particular, the use of renewable energy to capture CO2 and create CaCO3 while also generating hydrogen may be of particular interest to the cement industry, which has a significant CO2 footprint.
BH3 ⋅ Me2S: An Alternative Hydride Source for NiH‐Catalyzed Reductive Migratory Hydroarylation and Hydroalkenylation of Alkenes
Authors: Liu Jiandong , Gong Hegui , Zhu Shaolin
Published: February 2021

Borane dimethylsulfide (BMS) was found to be an efficient hydride source for nickel‐hydride catalyzed reductive migratory hydrofunctionalization reactions. Catalytic reductive migratory hydroarylation and migratory hydroalkenylation were achieved with BMS in high yields and with excellent regioselectivity. A large‐scale experiment employing as little as 0.5 equivalents of BH3 ⋅ Me2S as the hydride source delivered the desired migratory hydroarylation product in high yield and selectivity.
SfM‐MVS Photogrammetry for Splash Erosion Monitoring under Natural Rainfall
Authors: Laburda Tomáš , Krása Josef , Zumr David , Devátý Jan , Vrána Michal , Zambon Nives , Johannsen Lisbeth Lolk , Klik Andreas , Strauss Peter , Dostál Tomáš
Published: February 2021

An understanding of splash erosion is the basis to describe the impact of rain characteristics on soil disturbance. In typical splash cup experiments, splashed soil is collected, filtered, and weighed. As a way to collect additional data, our experiments have been supplemented by a photogrammetric approach. A total of three soils were tested across three sites, one in the Czech Republic and two in Austria, all equipped with rain gauges and disdrometers to measure rainfall parameters. The structure from motion multiview stereo (SfM‐MVS) photogrammetric method was used to measure the raindrops impact on the soil surface. The images were processed using Agisoft PhotoScan, resulting in orthophotos and digital elevation models (DEMs) with a resolution of 0.1 mm/pix. The surface statistics included the mean surface height (whose standard deviation was used as a measure of surface roughness), slope, and other parameters. These parameters were evaluated depending on soil texture and rainfall parameters. The results show a linear correlation between consolidation and splash erosion with a coefficient of determination (R2) of approximately 0.65 for all three soils. When comparing the change in soil volume with rainfall parameters, the best correlation was found with the maximum 30‐minintensity (I30), resulting in R2 values of 0.48 (soil A, silt loam, 26% clay), 0.59 (soil B, silt loam, 18% clay), and 0.68 (soil C, loamy sand, 12% clay). The initial increase in the sample volume for the lowest splashed mass corresponds with the increase in the clay content of each of the soils. Soil A swells the most. Soil B swells less. Soil C does not swell at all and consolidates the most. We derived the relationship between the photogrammetrically measured change in surface height and the splash erosion (measured by weight) by accounting for the effect of the clay content.
Fe3O4@SiO2@CuZnAl‐O Catalysts for Conversion of Lignin in Supercritical Methanol▴
Authors: Chen J. , Hui S. , Bao G. , Luo J. , Meng Y. , Li J. , Wang A. , Liang S.
Published: February 2021

The catalytic degradation of lignin was exploited by magnetic core‐shell Fe3O4@SiO2@CuZnAl‐O catalysts in supercritical methanol (sc‐MeOH) over temperature from 260 °C to 360 °C and the reaction time ranging from 0.5 h to 5 h. The magnetic core‐shell‐structured Fe3O4@SiO2@CuZnAl‐O catalysts with different mole ratio of Cu to Zn were prepared by parallel flow co‐precipitating method. Catalyst Fe3O4@SiO2@Cu1.2Zn4.8Al2‐O with the maximum specific surface area (142.8 m2 g−1) exhibited the highest lignin conversion of 66% and high selectivity for phenols, ketones and benzenes. The recyclable Fe3O4@SiO2@CuZnAl‐O catalyst allows high catalytic activity and selectivity for phenols, ketones and benzenes in the catalytic conversion of lignin in supercritical methanol. It is believed that this study can provide a promising strategy to prepare core–shell structured base metal nanocatalysts with metal‐oxide shells.
Utilization of occupational therapy services and relation to survival in people taking dementia‐specific medication in Austria—A retrospective population‐based study with a 13‐year observation period
Authors: Stefanac Sinisa , Grabovac Igor , Andrews Margaret R. , Oppenauer Claudia , Ramos Romualdo , Reichardt Berthold , Stögmann Elisabeth , Stamm Tanja
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Evidence‐based treatment of dementia includes pharmacological and non‐pharmacological methods of which psycho‐social interventions are an important component, commonly administered by occupational therapists. The aim of this study was to investigate the utilization of occupational therapy (OT) services and its association with survival in people taking dementia‐specific medication in a population‐based Austrian dataset compared to a two times as large control group without dementia‐specific medication.

Methods/Design

A retrospective study with a 13‐year observation period (2003–2016) was conducted on real‐world data. Two stratifications were done and we used descriptive statistics, Chi‐squared/Fisher's Exact Tests and survival analyses including three Cox models.

Results

Data from 286,553 participants were analysed. Only 4.5% (n = 12,950) received OT services. In the dementia‐medication group (n = 111,033), participants who received OT services (3.6%; n = 4032) had significantly more comorbidities (4.7%) compared to those without OT (3.5%;p < 0.001) and were also more likely to be male (4 vs. 3.5%;p < 0.001). While persons taking dementia‐specific medication showed a slightly reduced survival with OT (p < 0.001) compared to those without, the result in the control group without dementia‐specific medication showed a slightly better result of the participants who received OT (p < 0.001). The reduced survival in the dementia‐medication group with OT is likely to be related to the higher number of comorbidities in this group.

Conclusion

People receiving dementia‐specific medication were more likely to receive OT if they had additional comorbidities, however our analysis showed that utilization of OT services in Austria was very low indicating an overall insufficient accessibility of OT services for patients who needed it.
Observations on the particle pollution of the cities in China in the Coronavirus 2019 closure: Characteristics and lessons for environmental management
Authors: Yao Hong , Niu Guangyuan , Zhang Qingxiang , Jiang Qinyu , Lu Wei , Liu Huan , Ni Tianhua
Published: February 2021

Particulate matter in the air seriously affects human health and has been a hot topic of discussion. Because of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown in cities in China, sources of particulate matter, including gasoline-burning vehicles, dust-producing building sites, and coal-fired factories, almost all ceased at the end of January 2020. It was not until early April that outdoor activities recovered. Ten cities were selected as observation sites during the period from 19 December 2019 to 30 April 2020, covering the periods of preclosure, closure, and gradual resumption. A total of 11 720 groups of data were obtained, and 4 indicators were used to assess the characteristics of the particle pollution in the period. The quality of the atmospheric environment was visibly influenced by human activities in those 5 mo. The concentrations of particulate matter with particle sizes below 10 µm (PM10) decreased slightly in February and March and then began to increase slowly after April with the gradual recovery of production. The concentrations of particulate matter with particle sizes below 2.5 µm (PM2.5) decreased greatly in most regions, especially in northern cities, during closure and maintained a relatively stable level in the following 3 mo. The trends of PM10 and PM2.5 indicated that the reduced human activities during the COVID-19 lockdown decreased the concentrations of particulate matter in the air, and the difference between the PM10 and PM2.5 trends might be due to the different sources of the 2 particles and their different aerodynamics. However, during closure, the particulate matter pollution in the cities remained at a high level, which indicated that some ignored factors other than outdoor production activities, automobile exhaust, and construction site dust might have contributed greatly to the PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations, and the tracing of the particulate matter should be given further attention in environmental management. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:1014–1024. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

To assess the changes of the particle pollution in the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) closure of China, 11 720 groups of data were obtained and 4 indicators were applied. The concentrations of particulate matter with particle sizes below 2.5 µm (PM2.5) began falling from the beginning of the COVID-19 closure in February 2000 and maintained a relatively stable level in the following 3 mo. The difference between the particulate matter with particle sizes below 10 µm (PM10) and PM2.5 trends might be due to the different sources of the 2 particles and their different aerodynamics. The PM2.5 concentrations, especially in northern cities, reduced greatly in most regions during the closure period, compared with the uncontrolled months.
On tracing abnormal links in cold chain logistics of agricultural products by using location based service
Authors: Mei Baolin
Published: February 2021

In the daily food consumption, the proportion of fruit and vegetable agricultural products is increasing year by year. However, incidents such as problematic cucumbers, dyed Chinese peppers and poisonous bean sprouts have triggered public concerns about the quality and safety of fruit and vegetable products. In order to further stabilize the market supply of fruits and vegetables, it requires to ensure the quality and safety. The key link in the food safety mechanism is the traceability of cold chain logistics information. It is an inevitable trend of food safety management. Through information traceability, it is possible to accurately obtain the production information, processing information and circulation information of agricultural products in each link of the supply chain, so as to implement the transparency of the entire circulation of agricultural product transportation. In order to trace the abnormal links in cold chain logistics, this paper divides the urban geographic area by latitude and longitude based on the road network structure and uses characters in combination with the LZW algorithm to compress the string and code of the trajectory of cold chain vehicles. The experimental results show that it has high compression rate and can recover the trajectory with high similarity. Thus, the compressed string and code can reduce the storage.
Human small intestine cancer cell membrane‐camouflaged quercetin‐melanin for antibacterial and antitumor activity
Authors: Wang Jingyuan , Cheng Hao , Wang Zekun , Yang Endong , Guo Feng , Wang Weiyun , Sun Dongdong
Published: February 2021

E. coli has become an important factor that can lead to cancer because of its ability to cause diverse intestinal changes. Nano‐polymer materials provide ideal drug delivery systems for preparing antibacterial and anti‐cancer drugs because of their unique structure, easy modification, and high drug loading. The modified natural melanin has the potential to be an excellent nano‐carrier. By improving the water‐solubility and biocompatibility of the loaded natural drug quercetin, the antibacterial effect of quercetin can be fully played. Here, natural melanin was extracted from frozen squid to synthesize carrier polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles, and the natural drug quercetin (Q) was modified on the surface of PDA by π‐π bond and covalent bond action to produce melanin‐quercetin (PDA‐Q). We also developed human small intestinal cancer cells (HIC) membrane‐camouflaged melanin‐Quercetin (PDA‐Q) nanoparticles as an anti‐cancer platform in vivo. The potential bacteriostatic mechanism was likely driven by the penetration of PDA‐Q in E. coli cells, damaging the integrity of the membranes of E. coli and inducing cell death. The mice wound experiment and bacteremia model experiment revealed that C@PDA‐Q had a strong inhibitory effect on E. coli in vivo. In addition, the results of the in vitro tumor test also revealed that C@PDA‐Q had strong anti‐tumor activity against HIC cells of human small intestinal cancer, and the IC50 value was 12.3 ± 0.7 μg/ml, which was slightly better than that for cisplatin. As both melanin nanoparticles and HIC membrane are natural biomaterials, the synthesized C@PDA‐Q nano‐polymer material shows great potential for use in anti‐cancer nano‐drug loading.
Metabolic Alterations in Older Women With Low Bone Mineral Density Supplemented With Lactobacillus reuteri
Authors: Li Peishun , Sundh Daniel , Ji Boyang , Lappa Dimitra , Ye Lingqun , Nielsen Jens , Lorentzon Mattias
Published: February 2021

Osteoporosis and its associated fractures are highly prevalent in older women. Recent studies have shown that gut microbiota play important roles in regulating bone metabolism. A previous randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 (L.reuteri) led to substantially reduced bone loss in older women with low BMD. However, the total metabolic effects of L. reuteri supplementation on older women are still not clear. In this study, a post hoc analysis (not predefined) of serum metabolomic profiles of older women from the previous RCT was performed to investigate the metabolic dynamics over 1 year and to evaluate the effects of L. reuteri supplementation on human metabolism. Distinct segregation of the L. reuteri and placebo groups in response to the treatment was revealed by partial least squares‐discriminant analysis. Although no individual metabolite was differentially and significantly associated with treatment after correction for multiple testing, 97 metabolites responded differentially at any one time point between L. reuteri and placebo groups (variable importance in projection score >1 and p value <0.05). These metabolites were involved in multiple processes, including amino acid, peptide, and lipid metabolism. Butyrylcarnitine was particularly increased at all investigated time points in the L. reuteri group compared with placebo, indicating that the effects of L. reuteri on bone loss are mediated through butyrate signaling. Furthermore, the metabolomic profiles in a case (low BMD) and control population (high BMD) of elderly women were analyzed to confirm the associations between BMD and the identified metabolites regulated by L. reuteri supplementation. The amino acids, especially branched‐chain amino acids, showed association with L. reuteri treatment and with low BMD in older women, and may serve as potential therapeutic targets. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Circular RNA circHECTD1 facilitates glioma progression by regulating the miR‐296‐3p/SLC10A7 axis
Authors: Li Chenlong , Liu Yan , Lv Zhonghua , Zheng Hongshan , Li Zhenzhe , Zhang Jixing , Bao Hongbo , Zhang Sibin , Xiong Jinsheng , Jin Hua , Yu Lei , Ai Siqi , Wang Yingjie , Xiao Xu , Su Tianqi , Liang Peng
Published: February 2021

Glioma is the most common type of primary brain tumor. Treatment options for recurrent gliomas include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, but the clinical outcome is usually limited. In recent years, circular RNAs have been found to play a vital role in several human cancers. Gene Expression Omnibus database was utilized to verify the differentially expressed circRNAs. Then we detected that the expression of circular RNA circHECTD1 was significantly increased. The expression and function of circHECDT1 has not yet been reported in glioma. Then we confirmed that the level of circHECTD1 was significantly increased both in glioma tissues and cell lines, which is negatively correlated with the overall survival of patients. Knockdown of circHECTD1 inhibited proliferation and invasion in vitro, and also reduced the growth of tumor and prolonged the prognosis in vivo. Knockdown of circHECTD1 significantly elevated the miR‐296‐3p expression in LN229 and T98G cells. Luciferase reports and RNA immunoprecipitation data indicated that miR‐296‐3p was a direct target of circHECTD1 and that the miR‐296‐3p expression negatively regulated SLC10A7. Rescue experiments showed that the overexpression of SLC10A7 could impede the effects of circHECTD1 silencing on the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. In this study, we identified that circHECTD1 regulates SLC10A7 by interacting with miR‐296‐3p in glioma cells. In conclusion, this study investigated a novel biomarker panel consisting of the circHECTD1/miR‐296‐3p/SLC10A7 axis, which is critical for glioma tumorigenesis and invasiveness and may represent a novel therapeutic target for intervening in glioma progression.
Band 3 protein function and oxidative stress in erythrocytes
Authors: Remigante Alessia , Morabito Rossana , Marino Angela
Published: February 2021

Band 3 protein (B3p), anion transporter, allows the HCO3
−/Cl− exchange across plasma membrane and plays an important role for erythrocytes homeostasis. In addition, B3p is linked to proteins cytoskeleton, thus contributing to cell shape and deformability, essential to erythrocytes adjustment within narrowest capillaries. Taking into account that erythrocytes are a suitable cell model to investigate the response of the oxidative stress effects, B3p functions, and specifically anion exchange capability, determining the rate constant for SO4
2− uptake, has been considered. As, in the latter years, rising attention has been addressed to membrane transport system, and particularly to this protein, the present mini‐review has been conceived to report the most recent knowledge about B3p, with specific regard to its functions in oxidative stress conditions, including oxidative stress‐related diseases.
Persistent viral shedding of human adenovirus type 7 in children with severe pneumonia
Authors: Zeng Sai‐Zhen , Xie Le‐Yun , Yu Tian , Zhong Li‐li , Li Jin‐song , Duan Zhao‐Jun , Zhang Bing , Zeng Qi‐yi
Published: February 2021

To understand host–pathogen interactions and develop effective prevention and control strategies for human adenovirus (HAdV), it is essential to explore the characteristics of HAdV shedding. Hospitalized children <14 years who had severe HAdV pneumonia were tested for HAdV DNA by quantitative real‐time PCR in nasopharyngeal aspirate (NPA). A total of 132 children were enrolled, including 102 patients with HAdV type 7 (HAdV‐7) infection and 12 patients with HAdV type 3 (HAdV‐3) infection. A total of 1372 qualified NPA samples were collected. There was a significant negative correlation between the viral load of HAdV and the course of the disease (Spearman r = −0.547, p = .000). HAdV‐7 load decreased at a rate of 0.089 log10 copies/mL per day (95% CI: −0.096 to −0.081; R
2 = 0.332), and the duration of viral shedding was predicted to be 96.9 days (y = 8.624–0.089x). However, HAdV‐3 load decreased more quickly (95% CI: – 0.229 to – 0.143; R
2 = 0.403), and the duration of viral shedding was 51.4 days (y = 9.558‐0.186x). The median viral load of the HAdV‐7 group at weeks 2 and 3, and more than 3 weeks postinfection was higher than that of the HAdV‐3 group. No significant differences in the duration of viral shedding were found in different gender, age (>2 vs. ≤2 years), and with or without underlying diseases groups. Viral shedding in children with severe HAdV pneumonia persisted, among which HAdV‐7 lasted longer than 3 months and the viral load decreased slowly than HAdV‐3.
Co‐delivery of cisplatin and oleanolic acid by silica nanoparticles‐enhanced apoptosis and reverse multidrug resistance in lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Kai , Wang Qi‐Wen , Xu Ya‐Juan , Sun Hong‐Mei , Wang Lei , Zhang Li‐Xin
Published: February 2021

Multidrug resistance (MDR) of chemotherapy is one of the significant concerns in cancer therapy. Here in our study, cisplatin (DDP) and oleanolic acid (OA) were co‐loaded in mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Nsi) to construct DDP/OA‐Nsi and solve the DDP‐resistance in lung cancer therapy. The cytotoxicity and apoptosis assays demonstrated that in DDP‐resistant A549/DDP cells, the cytotoxicity of DDP/OA‐Nsi was significantly higher than that of free DDP or DDP single delivery system (DDP‐Nsi). The intracellular drug accumulation study revealed that the intracellular DDP concentration in the DDP/OA‐Nsi group was also higher than that in free DDP and DDP‐Nsi groups. In the A549/DDP xenograft tumor model, DDP/OA‐Nsi showed the best anticancer effect. In summary, DDP/OA‐Nsi was a promising drug delivery system to solve MDR in lung cancer therapy.
Quantum Ostrowski‐type integral inequalities for functions of two variables
Authors: Budak Hüseyin , Ali Muhammad Aamir , Tunç Tuba
Published: February 2021

In this study, we established some new inequalities of Ostrowski type for the functions of two variables by using the concept of newly defined double quantum integrals. We also revealed that the results presented in this paper are the consolidation and generalization  of some existing results on the literature of Ostrowski inequalities.
Alignment frustration in block copolymer films with block copolymer grafted TiO2 nanoparticles under soft‐shear cold zone annealing
Authors: Samant Saumil , Hailu Shimelis , Singh Maninderjeet , Pradhan Nihar , Yager Kevin , Al‐Enizi Abdullah M. , Raghavan Dharmaraj , Karim Alamgir
Published: February 2021

Block copolymers (BCPs) have received significant attention as promising candidates for sequestering nanoparticles and fabrication of aligned nanostructures with optimal optical or electrical properties. We investigate the influence of static and dynamic thermal field on the alignment of polystyrene‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PS‐b‐PMMA) BCP morphology with the loading of novel poly(methyl methacrylate‐block‐Polystyrene) (PMMA‐b‐PS)‐grafted‐TiO2 nanoparticles (BCP‐g‐TiO2). Observation of characteristics IR peaks for PMMA and PS in BCP‐g‐TiO2 nanoparticles and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) results of the outer coating of core nanoparticle, validate the grafting to approach in synthesizing BCP‐g‐TiO2. Here we report that under the sharp dynamic thermal field, at low loading of BCP‐g‐TiO2, there is good dispersion of nanoparticles in unidirectionally aligned BCP matrix in film interior probed by GISAXS, while, at high nanoparticle loading (~10 wt%), there is local frustration in the unidirectional alignment of the BCP matrix due to aggregation of BCP‐g‐TiO2 nanoparticles. However, Grazing incidence small angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS) shows clearly that the BCP films remain largely locally ordered at the domain scale, despite these large perturbations to long‐range ordering even at high loading level, while bringing in new TiO2 functionality to the BCP films, such as UVO absorptivity or biofouling prevention, important to potential new applications of such membranes.
Adolescents and young adult acute myeloid leukemia outcomes at pediatric versus adult centers: A population‐based study
Authors: Gupta Sumit , Baxter Nancy N. , Sutradhar Rinku , Pole Jason D. , Nagamuthu Chenthila , Lau Cindy , Nathan Paul C.
Published: February 2021

Background

Adolescents and young adult (AYA) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) outcomes remain poor. The impact of locus of care (LOC; adult vs pediatric) in this population is unknown.

Procedure

The IMPACT cohort comprises detailed data for all Ontario, Canada, AYA aged 15‐21 years diagnosed with AML between 1992 and 2012, linked to population‐based health administrative data. We determined the impact of LOC on event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS), treatment‐related mortality (TRM), and relapse/progression.

Results

Among 140 AYA, 51 (36.4%) received therapy at pediatric centers. The five‐year EFS and OS for the whole cohort were 35.0% ± 4.0% and 53.6% ± 4.2%. Cumulative doses of anthracycline were higher among pediatric center AYA [median 355 mg/m2, interquartile range (IQR) 135‐492 vs 202 mg/m2, IQR 140‐364; P = 0.003]. In multivariable analyses, LOC was not predictive of either EFS [adult vs pediatric center hazard ratio (HR) 1.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8‐2.2, P = 0.27] or OS (HR 1.0, CI 0.6‐1.6, P = 0.97). However, patterns of treatment failure varied; higher two‐year incidence of TRM in pediatric centers (23.5% ± 6.0% vs.10.1% ± 3.2%; P = 0.046) was balanced by lower five‐year incidence of relapse/progression (33.3% ± 6.7% vs 56.2% ± 5.3%; P = 0.002).

Conclusions

AYA AML survival outcomes did not vary between pediatric and adult settings. Causes of treatment failure were different, with higher intensity pediatric protocols associated with higher TRM but lower relapse/progression. Careful risk stratification and enhanced supportive care may be of substantial benefit to AYA with AML by allocating maximal treatment intensity to patients who most benefit while minimizing the risk of TRM.
Pediatric pulmonology 2019 year in review: rare and diffuse lung disease
Authors: Gower William A. , Vece Timothy J.
Published: February 2021

Pediatric Pulmonology publishes original research, review articles, and case reports on topics related to a wide range of children's respiratory disorders. Here we review manuscripts published in 2019 in this journal and others on (1) anatomic lung, airway, and vascular malformations, (2) children's interstitial lung disease, and (3) primary ciliary dyskinesia and non‐cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.
Influence of Cu‐Doping on Linear and Nonlinear Optical Properties of High‐Quality ZnO Thin Films Obtained by Spin‐Coating Technique
Authors: Mohammedi Abdelkader , Ibrir Miloud , Meglali Omar , Berri Saadi
Published: February 2021

To study the effect of Cu concentration on morphological, structural, linear and nonlinear optical properties, copper‐doped ZnO thin films are grown by sol–gel/spin‐coating technique on the glass substrates. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images reveal that the surface morphology is homogeneous with good adhesion to the glass substrate. The energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) spectra confirm that Zn, O, and Cu elements are present in ZnO films. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of Cu‐doped ZnO is dominated by (002) peak, indicating an upstanding ZnO nanorods array growing along the c‐axis. The optical bandgap of Cu‐doped ZnO thin films, calculated from optical transmission spectra, is found to decrease with the increase in copper concentration. The refractive index dispersion curve of ZnO films is subjected to the single‐oscillator model. The optical dispersion parameters Eo, Ed, and n∞, the nonlinear refractive index, and nonlinear optical susceptibility are calculated and interpreted.
Electric‐Field‐Induced Ferroelectricity in 5%Y‐doped Hf0.5Zr0.5O2: Transformation from the Paraelectric Tetragonal Phase to the Ferroelectric Orthorhombic Phase
Authors: Shimizu Takao , Tashiro Yuki , Mimura Takanori , Kiguchi Takanori , Shiraishi Takahisa , Konnno Toyohiko J. , Sakata Osami , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

The ferroelectric phase transformation from the tetragonal phase to the orthorhombic phase, induced by an electric field, is demonstrated in a 5%YO1.5‐doped Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 epitaxial film which is grown on Sn‐doped In2O3‐covered (111) yttria‐stabilized zirconia by the pulsed laser deposition method at room temperature and subsequent heat treatment. Although X‐ray diffraction shows the film to consist of a paraelectric tetragonal phase after the heat treatment, polarization–electric field (P–E) measurements reveal a hysteresis loop attributed to the ferroelectricity. To clarify the discrepancy between the crystal structure and electric characteristics, the crystal structure after electric field loading is determined by scanning transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron X‐ray diffraction measurements. Both structural characterizations clearly reveal that the application of an electric field promotes the phase transition from the paraelectric tetragonal phase to the ferroelectric orthorhombic phase. This ferroelectric transition is irreversible, as the ferroelectric phase remains after the removal of the electric field. These results facilitate the elucidation of the mechanism by which ferroelectricity is displayed in HfO2‐based fluorite ferroelectric materials and imply unimportance of the orthorhombic phase for as‐prepared films.
Synthetic Protocols for Aromatic Nitration: A Review
Authors: Patel Siddharth S. , Patel Dhaval B. , Patel Hitesh D.
Published: February 2021

Nitration of aromatic compounds represents a powerful and widely used transformation that allows introducing nitro group into aromatic systems. New synthetic strategies for aromatic nitration are deeply needed, including highly efficient and selective nitration methods. Aromatic nitration plays an important part in the industry, as the main use of nitration is to produce important products such as dyes & intermediate compounds, drugs, and Agrochemicals. The electrophilic aromatic nitration is most studied and important transformation in industrial process. This review will describe different possible methodologies that apply to this fundamental transformation with special attention to the most recent development that lasted from 2017–2020. The main pros and cons of recent nitration methods are briefly described with their specific reaction mechanism and highlighting the most important feature of the present aromatic nitration method.
The Role of Oxidation during the Synthesis of Silver‐Glutathione Monolayer‐Protected Clusters
Authors: Zaker Yeakub , Bhattarai Badri , Brewer Timothy R. , Bigioni Terry P.
Published: February 2021

The synthesis of metal monolayer‐protected clusters (MPCs) is still not well understood. It was recently shown that the mechanism of MPC formation involves sequential growth, wherein small MPCs form first and then grow into progressively larger sizes. The sequential growth model does not entirely explain all experimental observations, however. For example, the evolution of MPC product sizes is found to be a non‐monotonic function of reaction kinetics, whereas the sequential growth model predicts monotonic behavior. Size evolution of MPCs is studied during synthetic reactions for a wide range of kinetics and it is found that all syntheses began with the sequential growth of MPCs but also found that growth transitioned to degradation if reduction kinetics are fast enough to give way to ambient oxidation. It is identified that MPCs can degrade via oxidation during syntheses and in a manner that is opposite to sequential growth, namely by forming smaller known MPC species from larger MPC species. This sequential degradation process therefore played an important role in determining final MPC products for reactions with fast reduction kinetics. Together, complementary oxidative and reductive processes provide a more complete description of MPC synthesis as well as new tools for controlling metal MPC synthesis.
An assessment of factors affecting the elastic modulus of concrete
Authors: Sun Ryan Wok , Fanourakis George C.
Published: February 2021

The elastic modulus of concrete is required for the design of reinforced concrete structures, including in predicting creep deformation. Current models that estimate the elastic modulus (E), primarily on the basis of concrete compressive strength, vary in their accuracy and have hence proved to be inadequate to apply to the wide range of concretes. In this investigation, the E values of 108 concrete specimens which differed in aggregate type, cementitious material (binder) type, strength and curing age were measured. Seven factors were assessed for their degree of influence on concrete's elasticity, namely, aggregate type, aggregate percentage content, cementitious binder type, curing age, strength, water/cement ratio and density. The aggregate type, in particular, correlated significantly with the E value. In addition, the influence of density on E was highly significant (P = 2.39 × 10−5%). Concrete compressive strength, by contrast, was less influential than the aggregate type and density, and did not generally significantly correlate with the E value. This study provided additional confirmation that concrete strength is an unreliable primary factor on which to base concrete E estimations, as is the current common practice. It is therefore recommended that models to estimate E values of concrete should be based primarily on the type of aggregate used and the density of concrete.
Mitochondria‐associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes: At the crossroad between familiar and sporadic Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Kangrun , Zhang Wenling
Published: February 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and is incurable. The widely accepted amyloid hypothesis failed to produce efficient clinical therapies. In contrast, there is increasing evidence suggesting that the disruption of mitochondria‐associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAM) is a critical upstream event of AD pathogenesis. Here, we review MAM's role in some AD symptoms such as plaque formation, tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic loss, aberrant lipid synthesis, disturbed calcium homeostasis, and abnormal autophagy. At last, we proposed that MAM plays a central role in familial AD (FAD) and sporadic AD (SAD).
Review Solomon Amendment requirements and how to comply, part 2
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: February 2021

Introduced in Congress in 1996, the Solomon Amendment requires colleges to: (1) treat military recruiters equally to any other recruiter coming to campus to interview prospective employees (students), (2) give equal academic standing to any ROTC programs, and (3) provide student information to military recruiters. Any non‐complying colleges can lose federal funding. You can find more specifics on the penalties at http://bit.ly/3bvMwZk.
Canine isolated hypoaldosteronism
Authors: Raj Jennifer , Sanchez Lara Armando , Bell Rory , Tappin Simon
Published: February 2021

A 2‐year‐old female neutered English bull terrier presented with a history of behavioural change (depression, lethargy, avoidance of light), a mild increase in thirst and urination and two episodes of collapse. General physical and neurological examinations were unremarkable. Initial investigations documented hyponatremia and hyperkalaemia. An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test excluded hypocortisolism. Aldosterone concentrations obtained pre‐ and post‐ACTH stimulation were both undetectably low. Paired renin and aldosterone assays confirmed hyperreninemic hypoaldosteronism.

The patient was treated with oral mineralocorticoid supplementation which resulted in a rapid improvement in both clinical signs and electrolyte concentrations; she remained well on treatment during a 5‐year follow‐up period.

Isolated hypoaldosteronism is infrequently reported in the dog but should be considered in cases where hypoadrenocorticism is suspected based on electrolyte abnormalities, but hypocortisolism has been excluded.
Fabrication and characterization of a water purification system using activated carbon and graphene nanoplatelets: Toward the development of a nanofiltration matrix
Authors: Zhao Mengdi , Yang Mai Tser , Singh Mandeep , Overturf Tatiana , Gao Yanan , Silva Hernandez Gustavo , Ahmed Saquib , Banerjee Sankha
Published: February 2021

Researchers are trying to tackle water scarcity in numerous ways. One of those ways is the use of nanotechnology in water processing and purification. The current work involves the fabrication and optimization of activated carbon and graphene‐based hybrid water purification system. Five different concentrations of methylene blue and deionized water (DI) dye solutions were used, and they were filtered in three different cycles. For the potential usage on the consumer side, a small‐scale, low‐cost water filter is developed using activated carbon, commercial filter paper, and graphene nanoplatelets. The filter paper is used to hold mixtures of the activated carbon and graphene nanoplatelets within the water filter. The conductivity, TDS, and pH are measured for the feed water and the processed water using an Oakton EcoTestr and Apera Instruments PH60 Premium Pocket pH meter, respectively. A UV‐Vis spectrometer is used to measure the absorption of solutions. The distribution and adsorption of the dye particles were observed by scanning electron microscopy.

Practitioner points

These results show the effectiveness of the system in the removal of dye particles above a given particle size.

The concentration of the dye solution decreased after every cycle.

The GnPs filtration system more effectively dye particles as compared to the filtration system containing only Activated carbon.

UV‐Vis spectroscopy results showed that the methylene blue dye particles decreased after every cycle.

This research can open a broad area of projects toward waste/wastewater practice for particles above a certain particle size.
Is the natural UV zone important for successful captive propagation of the Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis); are different UVB irradiance exposures that generate a similar dose equally successful?
Authors: Ferguson Gary W. , Gehrmann William H. , Vaughan Matthew S. , Kroh Glenn C. , Chase Deborah , Slaets Kriss , Holick Michael F.
Published: February 2021

While we generally understand the optimal ultraviolet B (UVB) environment for the growth and reproduction of female Panther Chameleons Furcifer pardalis, we do not know the relative importance of UVB irradiance and dose for optimal husbandry outcomes. Accordingly, we experimented with Panther Chameleon females to test the hypothesis that UVB dose (irradiance × exposure duration) determines the outcome, regardless of the combination of UVB irradiance and exposure duration generating the dose. We varied UVB irradiance and exposure duration across treatment groups while keeping dose similar and within a range previously documented to result in reproductive success. The growth rate, age of maturity, and measurable vitamin D status were not significantly different among the treatment groups. Individuals in all groups produced viable eggs that successfully hatched. Thus, we found some support for the hypothesis that the UVB dose determines the outcome regardless of UVB irradiance. However, mean egg vitamin D3 concentration and percent hatching were higher in the highest UVB irradiance group, despite similar doses among the three groups. Preliminary field data reveal that this species occupies UV irradiance Zone 4 in Madagascar, the highest zone for reptiles recorded. Only the irradiance of the high UVB irradiance group in our experiment approached this zone and resulted in the best reproductive success. Biosynthesis of vitamin D3 and provisioning to eggs is more efficient when exposure to UVB irradiance is similar to that in their natural environment. Establishing an optimal UVB environment, based on knowledge of the natural UVB environment, is important for the propagation of Panther Chameleons in captivity.
Constraints, Stakeholders, and Framing Goals in Energy Master Planning Between Neighborhood and District
Authors: Haase Matthias , Baer Daniela
Published: February 2021

This paper analyzes and contrasts the constraints, stakeholders, and framing goals that must be considered when Energy Master Planning (EMP) is conducted for communities in seven countries. The analysis is based on findings from seven countries participating in the International Energy Agency’s “Energy in Buildings and Communities Program Annex 73”. The analysis covers design constraints such as emissions, sustainability criteria, and resilience goals, regulations and directives, regional and local limitations, such as available energy types, local conditions, and various levels of stakeholders, as well as community objectives. An analysis of the various constraints on different planning levels was done, and the key stakeholders were identified. They can be characterized by different governance structures and thereby stakeholder constellations. Mapping of the stakeholders involved provides insights in further constraints resulting into issues within the EMP that will need to be addressed for multi-owner, multi-stakeholder neighborhoods and districts. With a closer look at a case study in Elverum, Norway, the paper identifies constraints related to stakeholders involved and their impact on applying EMP.