bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Osteocalcin with Metabolic Syndrome and its Correlation with Insulin Resistance
Authors: Pattanayak Nehali , Mishra Anuva , Mohanty Sucharita , Mishra Pramila Kumari , Bara Putul
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is an important public health burden associated with five-fold risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and two fold risk of Cardio Vascular Disease (CVD). Recent studies described that osteoblasts produce osteocalcin which increases insulin secretion and adiponectin production resulting in insulin sensitivity. Aim: To determine the association of serum osteocalcin with MetS and to assess the correlation of insulin resistance Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) with osteocalcin. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was carried out in the Department of Biochemistry at MKCG Medical College, Brahmapur, Odisha, India. By observing the mean and standard deviation from previous studies, with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and 80% power of study, the sample size was calculated to be 45. Forty eight cases between 20-45 years of age meeting the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria of MetS and 50 age and sex matched healthy individuals were taken as controls. Individuals with any systemic illness or on any kind of medications were excluded from the study. Fasting blood sugar, lipid profile were measured by standard procedures. Serum osteocalcin and serum insulin was estimated by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) LISA SCAN READER and ROCHE e COBAS 411 electrochemiluminiscence, respectively. Statistical analysis was done in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 22.0 version software. Results: Serum osteocalcin was found to be lower in cases as compared to controls (7.74±4.62 ng/mL and 23.24±9.74 ng/mL) respectively. Osteocalcin was also found to be significantly negatively correlated with HOMA-IR, Waist Circumference (WC), triglyceride and fasting blood sugar in cases with (r=-0.322, p=0.025), (r=-0.519, p<0.001), (r=-0.401, p=0.005), (r=-0.539, p<0.001), respectively and also in controls with (r=-0.494, p<0.001), (r=-0.176, p=0.245), (r=-0.398, p<0.05), (r=-0.141, p<0.05), respectively. Conclusion: Serum osteocalcin being negatively correlated with insulin resistance may have therapeutic role in prevention of MetS which may be substantiated with further study.
Exploratory Research on the Effectiveness of Lannea coromandelica in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Model: A Protocol for Systematic Review
Authors: Britto Jacques , Durairaj Kesavi , Sundram Sandhya , Kumary Usha , Praveen Uppu
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder affecting human population since many centuries ago. To contend this disorder, effective alternative use of non-pharmacological approaches, particularly natural herbal plants, has become a subject of interest since the last decade. Aim: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Lannea coromandelica in the management of diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A systematic review on randomised controlled trials will be carried out. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines will be followed. The search strategies will be conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, J-Gate, EMBASE, COCHRANE database and Google Scholar. The search period will be included from 1968 to December 2020. The screening process will be initiated by two authors for title and abstract followed by four authors for full-text articles. The extraction will be performed by using the following characteristics-Study design, Animal model, Intervention of interest. Conclusion: This current review will provide evidence based on the available literature either to accept or reject the hypothesis that efficacy of Lannea coromandelica herbal plant may be beneficial for controlling glucose levels in diabetic model.
Крымская астрофизическая обсерватория: на перекрестке эпох и времен, "Земля и Вселенная"
Authors: Козлова О.В.
Published: April 2021

Когда промышленник и большой любитель астрономии Н.С. Мальцев в 1908 г. решил построить обсерваторию на горе Кошка в Симеизе и подарить ее Пулковской астрономической обсерватории, он еще не знал, насколько она перерастет себя, став вначале базой Симеизского отделения Пулково, а потом — положит начало Крымской астрофизической обсерватории (КрАО).
ЗАПАДНОЕВРОПЕЙСКИЕ СУКНА В СУЗДАЛЬСКОМ УЕЗДЕ ВО ВТОРОЙ ПОЛОВИНЕ XVI – НАЧАЛЕ XVII ВЕКА, "Средние века"
Authors: Флоря Б.Н.
Published: April 2021

Многие источники содержат сведения о массовом экспорте в Россию не только дорогих, но и сравнительно дешевых тканей. К сожалению, круг потребителей последних долгое время оставался неясным. Введение в научный оборот документов из архива Покровского Суздальского монастыря (многочисленных жалоб ограбленных людей) позволяет достаточно точно очертить круг потребителей более дешевых западноевропейских сукон на территории Суздальского уезда. Исследование показало, что такие ткани были доступны мелким помещикам и их слугам, священникам, посадским людям, холопам зажиточных помещиков, а в ряде случаев и зажиточным крестьянам. Такие ткани приобретались даже в условиях хозяйственного разорения второй половины XVI в. Это говорит о значительном объеме западноевропейского текстильного экспорта в Россию. В Суздальском уезде таким привозным сукном были почти исключительно ткани из Англии.
УСИЛИТЕЛИ УМСТВЕННЫХ СПОСОБНОСТЕЙ ЧЕЛОВЕКА, "Энергия: экономика, техника, экология"
Authors: Финн В.К.
Published: April 2021

Руководитель Отделения интеллектуальных систем в гуманитарной сфере Российского государственного гуманитарного университета, доктор технических наук, заслуженный деятель науки РФ, профессор Виктор ФИНН рассказывает о том, что на самом деле должно стать предметом исследований в такой бурно развивающейся области, как искусственный интеллект. Тема настолько обширная и многоаспектная, что нынешний разговор можно рассматривать как продолжение предыдущего интервью, опубликованного в № 10 за 2018 г. нашего журнала.
АПВЕЛЛИНГ НА УЗКОМ ШЕЛЬФЕ ЯПОНСКОГО МОРЯ В 2011 Г., "Фундаментальная и прикладная гидрофизика"
Authors: Кошелева А.В. , Ярощук И.О. , Храпченков Ф.Ф. , Pivovarov A. A. , Самченко А.Н. , Швырев А.Н. , Коротченко Р.А.
Published: April 2021

На основе инструментальных и спутниковых наблюдений рассматриваются характерные особенности локального апвеллинга, наблюдавшегося в октябре 2011 г. в юго-западной части залива Петра Великого Японского моря. Кроме того, приведены результаты численного моделирования, выполнявшегося при помощи Regional Ocean Model System (ROMS) со свободной поверхностью. При вычислениях использовались метеорологические наблюдения за неоднородностями поля ветра и инструментальные измерения гидрологической структуры воды. Анализ данных натурных измерений и их сравнение с результатами моделирования развития апвеллинга выявили, что пространственный и временной масштаб явления определялся силой, продолжительностью и направлением воздействующего ветра. Неоднородность поля скорости ветра, тесно связанная с особенностями береговой орографии, приводит к усилению апвеллинга у некоторых частей побережья и формированию температурных фронтов и струй холодной воды, поперечных основному течению, идущему вдоль шельфа.
МЕТОД ОЦЕНКИ ПАРАМЕТРОВ АНИЗОТРОПИИ МЕЛКОМАСШТАБНОЙ ТУРБУЛЕНТНОСТИ ПО ДАННЫМ АКУСТИЧЕСКИХ ПРОФИЛОГРАФОВ, "Фундаментальная и прикладная гидрофизика"
Authors: Волков С. Ю. , Богданов С. Р. , ЗДОРОВЕННОВА Г. Э. , ТЕРЖЕВИК А. Ю. , Здоровеннов Р.Э. , Пальшин Н.И. , Ефремова Т.В. , Кириллин Г. Б.
Published: April 2021

тические допплеровские профилографы течений широко используются для построения вертикальных профилей скорости. В последние годы эти приборы применяются также для оценок скорости диссипации энергии, на основе анализа продольных структурных функций. Применимость этих оценок, однако, остается спорной, поскольку расчет осуществляется в рамках предположения о локальной однородности и изотропности мелкомасштабных пульсаций и с использованием канонических значений констант Колмогорова. Однако во многих случаях, как показывают экспериментальные исследования и прямые численные расчеты, эти константы существенно варьируются, что приводит к ошибкам в определении , которые могут превышать 50%. В данной работе представлен метод, позволяющий произвести оценку параметров анизотропии непосредственно по анализу всех лучевых компонент скорости. Его суть заключается в использовании обобщенных (4-точечных) структурных функций и учете межлучевых корреляций скорости. Получено, в частности, явное выражение для поперечной структурной функции, что позволяет осуществить непосредственную проверку «закона 4/3». Апробация метода осуществлена на основе обработки данных, полученных при изучении турбулентности в конвективно-перемешанном слое покрытых льдом озер (Онежское и Вендюрское).
ВЛИЯНИЕ ЭКСТРАКТА ЛУКА ОШАНИНА (ГОРНЫЙ ТАДЖИКИСТАН) НА ТЕЧЕНИЕ ТУБЕРКУЛЕЗНОЙ ИНФЕКЦИИ В ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТЕ У ИНБРЕДНЫХ МЫШЕЙ, "Вестник Центрального научно-исследовательского института туберкулеза"
Authors: Мирзоева Ф.Д. , Авербах М.М. , Стержанова Н.В. , Саторов С.С. , Никоненко Б.В.
Published: April 2021

В эксперименте исследовали влияние спиртового экстракта лука Ошанина, произрастающего в Таджикистане, на течение туберкулезной инфекции в сочетании с изониазидом. Мышей инбредной линии BALB/c, зараженных M. tuberculosis H37Rv, лечили изониазидом в сочетании с экстрактом лука Ошанина. В результате продемонстрировано, что по таким показателям, как масса селезенки, количество колониеобразующих единиц (КОЕ) микобактерий туберкулеза (МБТ) в легких и легочная патология, комбинация изониазида с экстрактом лука Ошанина более эффек- тивна, чем экстракт лука или изониазид по отдельности.
A REVIEW ON MICRO-ORGANISMS AS THEY ARE IN VEDAS
Authors: Kumar Singh Pradeepta , Mohanta Nibedita
Published: April 2021

We have seen barren playground on which children play, but in rainy season many types of grasses, plants, weeds etc. grow up. It is possible because the seeds were already present there and waited for a favorable climatic condition. Likewise, the Human body being the micro cosmos contains every elements of creation including the seeds of every species. Our body consists of about 37 million cells and 370 million are microorganisms in it. We can admit that our own body contains microorganisms, innumerable. To be unaware of this fact is quite natural but to ignore this fact will be perplexing.
The evolutionarily conserved long non‐coding RNA LINC00261 drives neuroendocrine prostate cancer proliferation and metastasis via distinct nuclear and cytoplasmic mechanisms
Authors: Mather Rebecca L. , Parolia Abhijit , Carson Sandra E. , Venalainen Erik , Roig‐Carles David , Jaber Mustapha , Chu Shih‐Chun , Alborelli Ilaria , Wu Rebecca , Lin Dong , Nabavi Noushin , Jachetti Elena , Colombo Mario P. , Xue Hui , Pucci Perla , Ci Xinpei , Hawkes Cheryl , Li Yinglei , Pandha Hardev , Ulitsky Igor , Marconett Crystal , Quagliata Luca , Jiang Wei , Romero Ignacio , Wang Yuzhuo , Crea Francesco
Published: April 2021

Metastatic neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is a highly aggressive disease, whose incidence is rising. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) represent a large family of disease‐ and tissue‐specific transcripts, most of which are still functionally uncharacterized. Thus, we set out to identify the highly conserved lncRNAs that play a central role in NEPC pathogenesis. To this end, we performed transcriptomic analyses of donor‐matched patient‐derived xenograft models (PDXs) with immunohistologic features of prostate adenocarcinoma (AR+/PSA+) or NEPC (AR−/SYN+/CHGA+) and through differential expression analyses identified lncRNAs that were upregulated upon neuroendocrine transdifferentiation. These genes were prioritized for functional assessment based on the level of conservation in vertebrates. Here, LINC00261 emerged as the top gene with over 3229‐fold upregulation in NEPC. Consistently, LINC00261 expression was significantly upregulated in NEPC specimens in multiple patient cohorts. Knockdown of LINC00261 in PC‐3 cells dramatically attenuated its proliferative and metastatic abilities, which are explained by parallel downregulation of CBX2 and FOXA2 through distinct molecular mechanisms. In the cell cytoplasm, LINC00261 binds to and sequesters miR‐8485 from targeting the CBX2 mRNA, while inside the nucleus, LINC00261 functions as a transcriptional scaffold to induce SMAD‐driven expression of the FOXA2 gene. For the first time, these results demonstrate hyperactivation of the LINC00261‐CBX2‐FOXA2 axes in NEPC to drive proliferation and metastasis, and that LINC00261 may be utilized as a therapeutic target and a biomarker for this incurable disease.
Bio‐Inspired Large‐Area Soft Sensing Skins to Measure UAV Wing Deformation in Flight
Authors: Shin Hee‐Sup , Ott Zachary , Beuken Leopold G. , Ranganathan Badri N. , Humbert J. Sean , Bergbreiter Sarah
Published: April 2021

Biological organisms demonstrate remarkable agility in complex environments, especially in comparison to engineered robotic systems. In part, this is due to an organism's ability to detect disturbances and react to them quickly. To address the challenge of quickly sensing these same disturbances in robotic systems, this study proposes and demonstrates large‐area soft sensing skins designed to sense disturbances on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in flight. These skins are enabled by high‐resolution soft strain sensors embedded into a large‐area skin through a modular molding process that spans feature sizes from tens of microns to 0.675 m. The electronics of the sensing system enable the soft skins to be sampled fast enough to capture dynamic loads on a wing. Overall, the large‐area soft sensing skin demonstrates high sensitivity, mechanical robustness, and consistent sensor readings across static and dynamic tests. The use of the soft sensing skin during UAV flight demonstrates that the sensing skin can capture relevant flight dynamics on small UAVs. These results pave the way to large‐area soft sensing skins for fast and robust control of a wide variety of robotic systems.
Nanoporous Intermetallic Pd3Bi for Efficient Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction
Authors: Wang Xuejing , Luo Min , Lan Jiao , Peng Ming , Tan Yongwen
Published: April 2021

Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction at ambient temperature is a green technology for artificial nitrogen fixation but greatly challenging with low yield and poor selectivity. Here, a nanoporous ordered intermetallic Pd3Bi prepared by converting chemically etched nanoporous PdBi2 exhibits efficient electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction under ambient conditions. The resulting nanoporous intermetallic Pd3Bi can achieve high activity and selectivity with an NH3 yield rate of 59.05 ± 2.27 µg h−1 mgcat−1 and a Faradaic efficiency of 21.52 ± 0.71% at −0.2 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode in 0.05 m H2SO4 electrolyte, outperforming most of the reported catalysts in electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). Operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy studies combined with density functional theory calculations reveal that strong coupling between the Pd–Bi sites bridges the electron‐transfer channel of intermetallic Pd3Bi, in which the Bi sites can absorb N2 molecules and lower the energy barrier of *N2 for N2 adsorption and activation. Meanwhile, the intermetallic Pd3Bi with bicontinuous nanoporous structure can accelerate the electron transport during the NRR process, thus improving the NRR performance.
Pt Single Atoms Supported on N‐Doped Mesoporous Hollow Carbon Spheres with Enhanced Electrocatalytic H2‐Evolution Activity
Authors: Kuang Panyong , Wang Yaru , Zhu Bicheng , Xia Fanjie , Tung Ching‐Wei , Wu Jinsong , Chen Hao Ming , Yu Jiaguo
Published: April 2021

The electronic metal–support interaction (EMSI) plays a crucial role in catalysis as it can induce electron transfer between metal and support, modulate the electronic state of the supported metal, and optimize the reduction of intermediate species. In this work, the tailoring of electronic structure of Pt single atoms supported on N‐doped mesoporous hollow carbon spheres (Pt1/NMHCS) via strong EMSI engineering is reported. The Pt1/NMHCS composite is much more active and stable than the nanoparticle (PtNP) counterpart and commercial 20 wt% Pt/C for catalyzing the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), exhibiting a low overpotential of 40 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, a high mass activity of 2.07 A mg−1Pt at 50 mV overpotential, a large turnover frequency of 20.18 s−1 at 300 mV overpotential, and outstanding durability in acidic electrolyte. Detailed spectroscopic characterizations and theoretical simulations reveal that the strong EMSI effect in a unique N1−Pt1−C2 coordination structure significantly tailors the electronic structure of Pt 5d states, resulting in promoted reduction of adsorbed proton, facilitated H−H coupling, and thus Pt‐like HER activity. This work provides a constructive route for precisely designing single‐Pt‐atom‐based robust electrocatalysts with high HER activity and durability.
Novel Stimuli‐Responsive Turbostratic Oxides/Hydroxides for Material‐Driven Robots
Authors: Kwan Kin Wa , Wu Runni , Ma Wenrui , Ngan Alfonso H. W.
Published: April 2021

Herein, a novel class of high‐performing actuating oxides/hydroxides with turbostratic crystal structures is reviewed. These materials, including nickel hydroxide/oxyhydroxide, cobalt oxides/hydroxides, nickel‐doped cobalt oxides/hydroxides, and manganese oxides, exhibit a volume‐changing redox reaction, rendering them an electrochemical actuation behavior. Also, due to their turbostratic crystal structures, they typically exhibit light‐driven actuation due to water deintercalation from the crystal structure induced by light. Compared with other actuating materials, these oxides/hydroxides actuate with high stress and strain at fast rates, under very low stimuli requirements. Furthermore, they are easily printable on different substrates, thus allowing flexible robots with demodularized muscle‐skeletal designs to be made.
Prediction of photosynthetic light‐response curves using traits of the leaf economics spectrum for 75 woody species: effects of leaf habit and sun–shade dichotomy
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Sun Jun , Lyu Min , Wang Mantang , Hu Dandan , Zhong Quanlin , Cheng Dongliang
Published: April 2021

Premise

Photosynthetic light‐response (PLR) curves for leaves are important components of models related to carbon fixation in forest ecosystems, linking the Mitscherlich equation and Michaelis–Menten equation to traits of the leaf economics spectrum (LES). However, models do not consider changes in leaf habits (i.e., evergreen and deciduous) and within‐canopy shading variation in these PLR curves.

Methods

Here, we measured the PLR curves in sun and shade leaves of 44 evergreen and 31 deciduous species to examine the relationships between variables of the Mitscherlich equation and Michaelis–Menten equation, leaf nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content, and leaf mass per area (LMA).

Results

Small changes were caused by different leaf habits and shade variations in relationships linking variables of the two equations to leaf N and P content and LMA. Values of the scaling exponents for PLR curve parameters did not differ regardless of canopy position and leaf habit (P> 0.05). The PLR curves in species with different leaf habits (i.e., evergreen and deciduous) at different canopy positions could be predicted using the general allometric relations between leaf traits and PLR parameters in the two equations. For photosynthetic photon flux densities from 0 to 2000 μmol m‐2s‐1, approximately 71% (Mitscherlich equation) and 70% (Michaelis–Menten equation) of the net assimilation rates could be predicted.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that leaf net assimilation rates can be predicted through the large available data for LES traits. Incorporation of values for these traits available in the LES databases into ecosystem models of forest productivity and carbon fixation warrants further investigation.
Range‐wide variations in common milkweed traits and their effect on monarch larvae
Authors: DeLaMater David S. , Couture John J. , Puzey Joshua R. , Dalgleish Harmony J.
Published: April 2021

Premise

Leaf economic spectrum (LES) theory has historically been employed to inform vegetation models of ecosystem processes, but largely neglects intraspecific variation and biotic interactions. We attempt to integrate across environment–plant trait–herbivore interactions within a species at a range‐wide scale.

Methods

We measured traits in 53 populations spanning the range of common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) and used a common garden to determine the role of environment in driving patterns of intraspecific variation. We used a feeding trial to determine the role of plant traits in monarch (Danaus plexippus) larval development.

Results

Trait–trait relationships largely followed interspecific patterns in LES theory and persisted in a common garden when individual traits change. Common milkweed showed intraspecific variation and biogeographic clines in traits. Clines did not persist in a common garden. Larvae ate more and grew larger when fed plants with more nitrogen. A longitudinal environmental gradient in precipitation corresponded to a resource gradient in plant nitrogen, which produces a gradient in larval performance.

Conclusions

Biogeographic patterns in common milkweed traits can sometimes be predicted from LES, are largely driven by environmental conditions, and have consequences for monarch larval performance. Changes to nutrient dynamics of landscapes with common milkweed could potentially influence monarch population dynamics. We show how biogeographic trends in intraspecific variation can influence key ecological interactions, especially in common species with large distributions.
Explaining the boycott behavior: A conceptual model proposal and validation
Authors: Palacios‐Florencio Beatriz , Revilla‐Camacho María‐Ángeles , Garzón Dolores , Prado‐Román Camilo
Published: April 2021

This study proposes a conceptual model with the capacity to substantially explain the boycott behavior. As a first step for the validation of the proposed model, an empirical study has been carried out, focusing on the boycott promoted towards the territory of Catalonia (Spain). Following the postulates of the theory of reasoned action, the effect that the intention to participate in the boycott will have on effective behavior is considered, but social influence, the importance given to brands and the perceived legitimacy of a boycott are also included. Concepts as the attitude towards boycotts as a measure of pressure to change actions and decisions, the perceived usefulness of the boycott and animosity towards the boycott object are included in the model as antecedents to the intention to participate in the boycott. Finally, it is postulated that the legitimacy given to boycott behavior and the ethical ideology based on idealism are explanatory factors for the attitude towards boycott behavior. The relevance of the study is established by the need to respond to boycotts in an appropriate way. This paper can be useful, by pointing out the main factors that cause an individual to take an active part in a boycott.
What We Currently Know about Carbon‐Supported Metal and Metal Oxide Nanomaterials in Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Suominen Milla , Kallio Tanja
Published: April 2021

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 is considered important in enhancing the circular‐economy design; it can suppress harmful greenhouse‐gas emissions while, combined with intermittent renewable energy sources, it can employ the surplus energy for production of important chemicals and fuels. In the process, electrocatalysts play an important role as the mediators of the highly active and selective conversion of CO2. Transition and post transition metals and their oxides are an important electrocatalyst group. For practical reasons, these metals need to be applied as nanoparticles supported on highly conducting materials enabling fabrication of 3D electrodes. In this minireview, we focus on gathering our current knowledge on the effects which transition and post transition metal and metal oxide nanoparticles supported on different carbons may have on electrochemical reduction of CO2. We focus on literature of studies conducted in aqueous conditions, under as similar conditions as possible, to ensure comparability. This approach enables us to highlight possible support effects and issues that complicate making conclusions on support effects.
Mechanoredox Chemistry as an Emerging Strategy in Synthesis
Authors: Leitch Jamie A. , Browne Duncan L.
Published: April 2021

Recent research endeavors have established that the mechanochemical activation of piezoelectric materials can open new avenues in redox chemistry. Impact forces, such as those imparted by a ball mill, have been shown to transform piezoelectric materials such as barium titanate (BaTiO3) into a highly polarized state, which can then donate an electron to a suitable oxidant and receive an electron from a suitable reductant, mimicking established photoredox catalytic cycles. Proof‐of‐concept studies have elucidated that mechanoredox chemistry holds great potential in sustainable and efficient radical‐based synthesis.
A CaO2@Tannic Acid‐FeIII Nanoconjugate for Enhanced Chemodynamic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Chen Fei , Yang Beibei , Xu Lan , Yang Jinfeng , Li Jishan
Published: April 2021

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is an effective tumor treatment strategy in which FeII reacts with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in tumor cells to produce highly toxic hydroxyl radical (.OH) through the Fenton reaction. However, the content of endogenous H2O2 in cells is limited, and the reaction between FeIII and H2O2 is inefficient, greatly limiting the efficiency of the Fenton reaction and reducing the effectiveness of tumor treatment. Therefore, in this work, we designed and synthesized a new type of nano‐system (CaO2@TA‐FeIII) for the enhanced CDT of tumors, in which the polyphenolic compound‐ tannic acid (TA) and FeIII formed a TA‐Fe nano‐coating on the surface of calcium peroxide (CaO2) nanospherical aggregates. When the CaO2@TA‐FeIII nanoconjugates reach the tumor site, the CaO2 contained in the nanoconjugates produces H2O2 after disintegration in tumor cells, and the carried TA rapidly reduces FeIII to FeII, solving the two major shortcomings in CDT of (1) insufficient content of H2O2 in cancer cells, and (2) low catalytic efficiency of the Fenton reaction. Additionally, the .OH produced in the Fenton reaction induces oxidative stress for the tumor cells, promoting the occurrence of the “calcium overload” process, and thereby accelerating the death of tumor cells. Experimental results in vitro and in vivo showed that CaO2@TA‐FeIII nanoconjugates can effectively kill cancer cells and display an excellent tumor therapeutic effect. We believe that the CaO2@TA‐FeIII nanoconjugates are a promising new nano‐platform for highly effective tumor treatment.
Continuous Fluidic Techniques for the Precise Synthesis of Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Tanaka Yoko , Yamada Saki , Tanaka Daisuke
Published: April 2021

The continuous fluidics‐based synthesis of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) has attracted considerable attention, resulting in advancements in the reaction efficiency, a continuous production of complex structures, and access to products that are difficult or impossible to attain by bulk synthetic routes. This Minireview discusses the continuous fluidics‐based synthesis of MOFs in terms of reaction process control, and is divided into three chapters dealing with the efficient synthesis of high‐quality MOFs, the confined‐space synthesis of MOF composites with diverse morphologies, and the selective synthesis of metastable products. The products of continuous fluidic synthetic process are introduced (e. g., uniform products, composites, fibers, membranes, and metastable products with advantageous properties that cannot be obtained by bulk synthesis), and their usefulness is demonstrated by referencing representative examples.
Flat, Cα,β‐Didehydroalanine Foldamers with Ferrocene Pendants: Assessing the Role of α‐Peptide Dipolar Moments
Authors: Santi Saverio , Bisello Annalisa , Cardena Roberta , Tomelleri Silvia , Schiesari Renato , Biondi Barbara , Crisma Marco , Formaggio Fernando
Published: April 2021

The foldamer field is continuously expanding as it allows to produce molecules endowed with 3D‐structures and functions never observed in nature. We synthesized flat foldamers based on the natural, but non‐coded, Cα,β‐didehydroalanine α‐amino acid, and covalently linked to them two ferrocene (Fc) moieties, as redox probes. These conjugates retain the flat and extended conformation of the 2.05‐helix, both in solution and in the crystal state (X‐ray diffraction). Cyclic voltammetry measurements agree with the adoption of the 2.05‐helix, characterized by a negligible dipole moment. Thus, elongated α‐peptide stretches of this type are insulators rather than charge conductors, the latter being constituted by peptide α‐helices. Also, our homo‐tetrapeptide has a N‐to‐C length of about 18.2 Å, almost double than that (9.7 Å) of an α‐helical α‐tetrapeptide.
Synthesis of a Highly Fluorescent Bis(1,4‐oxaborine)pentacene
Authors: Lee Johnathan J. C. , Chi Chunyan , Wu Jishan
Published: April 2021

1,4‐Oxaborines represent an expansion of the current array of heteroborines. Herein, we report a new ladder‐type bis(1,4‐oxaborine)pentacene (BO‐Pen), the backbone of which can be regarded as an isoelectronic structure of pentacene. The synthesis begins with a two‐fold nucleophilic aromatic substitution followed by a ring‐closing reaction. The structure was confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis. Compound BO‐Pen is stable (even after 160 h) under ambient condition and exhibits very different electronic properties as compared to its all‐carbon pentacene analogue (Pen‐M). Particularly, it shows bright photoluminescence (73 % relative quantum yield) in both solution and in solid state.
Meso‐Biphenyl‐Linked, Near‐ and Far‐Infrared Emitting, Chlorin and Bacteriochlorin Dimers: Synthesis, Excitation Transfer, and Singlet Oxygen Production
Authors: Seetharaman Sairaman , Dukh Mykhaylo , Tabaczynski Walter A. , Ou Zhongping , Karr Paul A. , Kadish Karl M. , Pandey Ravindra K. , D'Souza Francis
Published: April 2021

A series of meso‐biphenyl linked chlorin and bacteriochlorin dimers, derived from naturally occurring chlorophyll (Chl‐a) and bacteriochlorophyll (BChl‐a) were synthesized in 32 % to 44 % yields and characterized, as photosynthetic antenna mimics, and a new class of singlet oxygen producing agents. The dimers are characterized by absorption, fluorescence, electrochemical, spectroelectrochemical and computational methods to evaluate their physico‐chemical properties, and to identify ground and excited state interactions. Evidence of excited energy exchange among the chromophores in the dimer is derived from femtosecond transient absorption spectral studies. Rate constants for excitation hopping were in the order of 1011 s−1, indicating occurrence of efficient processes. Nanosecond transient absorption studies confirmed relaxation of the singlet excited chlorin and bacteriochlorin dimers to their corresponding triplet states (3Chl* and 3Bchl*). As predicted by the established energy level diagrams, both 3Chl* and 3Bchl* are shown to be capable of producing singlet oxygen with appreciable quantum yields (ϕSO∼0.3).
Effect of Corticosteroids on Mortality in Hospitalized COVID‐19 Patients Not Receiving Invasive Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Fusina Federica , Albani Filippo , Granato Enza , Meloni Angelo , Rozzini Renzo , Sabatini Tony , Stellini Roberto , Terragnoli Paolo , Rosano Antonio , Abu Hilal Mohammed , Natalini Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

The most beneficial effect of corticosteroid therapy in COVID‐19 patients has been shown in subjects receiving invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), corresponding to a score of 6 on the World Health Organization (WHO) COVID‐19 Ordinal Scale for Clinical Improvement (OSCI). The aim of this observational, single‐center, prospective study was to assess the association between corticosteroids and hospital mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients who did not receive IMV (OSCI 3–5). Included were 1,311 COVID‐19 patients admitted to nonintensive care wards, and they were divided in two cohorts: (i) 480 patients who received corticosteroid therapy and (ii) 831 patients who did not. The median daily dose was of 8 mg of dexamethasone or equivalent, with a mean therapy duration of 5 (3–9) days. The indication to administer or withhold corticosteroids was given by the treating physician. In‐hospital mortality was similar between the two cohorts after adjusting for possible confounders (adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.81–1.34, P = 0.74). There was also no difference in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission (ORadj 0.81, 95% CI, 0.56–1.17, P = 0.26). COVID‐19 patients with noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) had a lower risk for ICU admission if they received steroid therapy (ORadj 0.58, 95% CI, 0.35–0.94, P = 0.03). In conclusion, corticosteroids were overall not associated with a difference in hospital mortality for patients with COVID‐19 with OSCI 3–5. In the subgroup of patients with NIMV (OSCI 5), corticosteroids reduced ICU admission, whereas the effect on mortality requires further studies.
Evaluation of the ATN model in a longitudinal memory clinic sample with different underlying disorders
Authors: Eckerström C. , Svensson J. , Kettunen P. , Jonsson M. , Eckerström M.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

To evaluate the usefulness of the 2018 NIA‐AA (National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer's Association) research framework in a longitudinal memory clinic study with different clinical outcomes and underlying disorders.

Methods

We included 420 patients with mild cognitive impairment or subjective cognitive impairment. During the follow up, 27% of the patients converted to dementia, with the majority converting to Alzheimer's disease (AD) or mixed dementia. Based on the baseline values of the cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, the patients were classified into one of the eight possible ATN groups (amyloid beta [Aβ] aggregation [A], tau aggregation reflecting neurofibrillary tangles [T], and neurodegeneration [N]).

Results

The majority of the patients converting to AD and mixed dementia were in ATN groups positive for A (71%). The A+T+N+ group was highly overrepresented among converters to AD and mixed dementia. Patients converting to dementias other than AD or mixed dementia were evenly distributed across the ATN groups

Discussion

Our findings provide support for the usefulness of the ATN system to detect incipient AD or mixed dementia.
Beyond its anti‐migraine properties, sumatriptan is an anti‐inflammatory agent: A systematic review
Authors: Ala Moein , Ghasemi Mehdi , Mohammad Jafari Razieh , Dehpour Ahmad Reza
Published: April 2021

Sumatriptan is the first available medication from triptans family that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for migraine attacks and cluster headaches in 1991. Most of its action is mediated by selective 5‐HT1B/1D receptor agonism. Recent investigations raised the possibility of repositioning of this drug to other indications beyond migraine, as increasing evidence suggests for an anti‐inflammatory property of sumatriptan. We performed a literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar using “inflammation AND sumatriptan” or “inflammation AND 5HT1B/D” as the keywords. Then, articles were screened for their relevance and those directly discussing the correlation between inflammation and sumatriptan or 5HT1B/D were included. Total references reviewed or inclusion/exclusion were 340 retrieved full‐text articles (n = 340), then based on critical assessment 66 of them were included in this systematic review. Our literature review indicates that at low doses, sumatriptan can reduce inflammatory markers (e.g., interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and nuclear factor‐κB), affects caspases and changes cells lifespan. Additionally, nitric oxide synthase and nitric oxide signaling seem to be regulated by this drug. It also inhibits the release of calcitonin gene‐related peptide. Sumatriptan protects against many inflammatory conditions including cardiac and mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion, skin flap, pruritus, peripheral, and central nervous system injuries such as spinal cord injury, testicular torsion‐detorsion, oral mucositis, and other experimental models. Considering the safety and potency of low dose sumatriptan compared to corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications, it is worth to take advantage of sumatriptan in inflammatory conditions.
Cardiac rehabilitation with intermittent myocardial ischaemia as a new therapeutic option in refractory angina?
Authors: Corre Jerome , Douard Herve , Ronchard Thibault
Published: April 2021

A 72‐year‐old man daily suffered from a refractory angina consecutive to a diffuse coronary artery disease despite optimal medical management. Revascularization could not be performed because of a severe thrombopenia. He was referred to our outpatient cardiac rehabilitation programme where he was candidate for 20 sessions, three times a week, of high‐intensity aerobic interval training involving brief episodes of regressive myocardial ischaemia. After 7 weeks, exercise capacity (+28.5%), VO2 peak (35.7%), and ischaemic threshold increased while clinical status and quality of life improved. No adverse effect was reported. Aerobic interval training with myocardial ischaemia might be a therapeutic alternative in refractory angina.
Optimization of Photovoltaic Energy Systems for Residential Customers in Hot Climate Areas Based on Seasonal and Average Daily Load Profile
Authors: Zubair Muhammad , Bilal Awan Ahmed
Published: April 2021

Fixed tilted, single‐axis tracking, and dual‐axis tracking PV systems are compared for one‐way energy meters and net‐energy meters. Optimization of the tilt angle and azimuth angle based on the load profile in one‐way energy meters enhances the net present value. The higher energy demands of summer can be met by lower tilt angles while the PV energy peak can be shifted towards the higher load hours by adjusting the azimuth angle. The results show that the net‐energy system with single‐axis tracking outperforms dual‐axis tracking and fixed tilted systems for a residential PV system one‐way meter, the load curve can be used to optimize the tilt angle and azimuth angle of a fixed tilted system to achieve a higher net present value (NPV) with added advantages of lower building cooling loads and lower self‐shading losses of the PV system. The comparison between the base‐case PV system and the optimized system of a fixed tilted system on a one‐way energy meter in Islamabad and Lahore shows a 15% and 13.7% higher NPV, 3.5%, and 3.6% lower simple payback period respectively. The optimized PV energy system also achieved 28% and 25% more savings in the cooling load of the houses in Islamabad and Lahore, respectively.
The decline of a hidden and expansive microhabitat: the subnivium
Authors: Thompson Kimberly L , Zuckerberg Benjamin , Porter Warren P , Pauli Jonathan N
Published: April 2021

The subnivium is the seasonal microhabitat at the snow–ground interface and serves as a refuge for a diversity of species. Increasingly warmer winters are disrupting the continuity of snow cover, and likely the stability of the subnivium. To examine how the extent and duration of this sensitive and widespread below‐snow habitat will shift under warming winters, we deployed fully automated winter greenhouses across latitudinal and land‐cover gradients to monitor subnivium conditions under different climate‐change scenarios and predicted subnivium occurrence across the Great Lakes region. In a +3°C warming scenario, we found little change in subnivium extent or duration, whereas a +5°C scenario produced widespread and marked reductions in both extent (loss of 200,000 km2, a 45% decline) and duration (>1 month decline). Although the subnivium appears resilient to moderate future warming, we predict abrupt and extensive changes in response to increased winter warming, which will have sweeping ecological and environmental consequences in high‐latitude ecosystems.
Nonhydrostatic model for free surface flow interaction with structures
Authors: Bradford Scott F.
Published: April 2021

Simulating fluid–structure interactions is important in many engineering applications. Navier–Stokes based models can accurately simulate free surface flows and efficiency is improved by transforming the equations into the sigma‐coordinate system in which the grid follows the free surface and bottom. This approach lacks the ability to simulate wave overturning and splashing, but it has been demonstrated to accurately simulate breaking waves. Incorporating structures in a free surface flow model is challenging. Many existing techniques require complex grids and cumbersome interpolation. The immersed boundary method avoids complicated grids by overlaying the object on the grid. Interpolation is still required at the object boundary, which may not conserve mass. It is also difficult to compute the force acting on the body. Conservation may be reclaimed by embedding the object into the mesh. However, this may result in small (cut) cells and numerical instability unless they are merged with neighboring cells. In this article, a new model is proposed and constructed using a modified sigma coordinate transformation. This limits the model to simulating objects that can be represented by upper and lower surfaces that are functions of x and y, but still allows for many simulations of engineering interest. In exchange for this compromise, several advantages are gained including: efficiency, mass conservation, and easy estimation of force. Model accuracy is demonstrated by comparing numerical predictions with analytical solutions and laboratory measurements for free surface flows interacting with a horizontal cylinder and NACA 0012 foil.
Assessment of different induction chemotherapy regimens in locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Meta‐analysis
Authors: Guan Hui , He Yan , Su Yonglin , Wei Zhigong , Liu Zheran , Wang Jingjing , He Ling , Mu Xiaoli , Li Ruidan , Hu Xiaolin , Peng Xingchen
Published: April 2021

Background

A Bayesian network meta‐analysis was performed to compare the efficacy and toxicities among different induction chemotherapy regimens in locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA‐NPC).

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for literature up to September 16, 2019. Two researchers independently selected the articles, evaluated the quality of the literature, and extracted and analyzed the data.

Results

There were no significant differences in survival outcomes, mucositis, or gastrointestinal adverse events among the four regimens. The probability of GP being the best induction scheme to improve OS was 43.7%. The completion rate of concurrent chemotherapy with the GP regimen was significantly reduced than the other three regimens.

Conclusions

The survival outcomes of the four regimens in LA‐NPC were comparable. Considering only OS, GP showed the highest probability of improving the survival of LA‐NPC, while it also affected the completion of concurrent chemotherapy.
Development of a machine learning model for the prediction of nodal metastasis in early T classification oral squamous cell carcinoma: SEER‐based population study
Authors: Kwak Min Seob , Eun Young‐Gyu , Lee Jung‐Woo , Lee Young Chan
Published: April 2021

Background

This study aimed to develop and compare machine learning (ML) based predictive models for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in early T classification oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

We used data from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Database to develop and validate the predictive models for LNM in patients with T1, T2 OSCC. Using simple clinical and histopathological data, we developed six ML algorithms to predict LNM. The predictive performance of models was compared.

Results

The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of the six models ranged from 0.768 to 0.956. The best prediction performance was achieved with a XGBoost (AUC = 0.956). Permutation importance analysis showed that tumor size is the most important feature in predicting metastasis.

Conclusions

We developed a simplified and reproducible ML‐based predictive model for metastasis in early T classification OSCC that could be helpful for the decision of a treatment strategy.
Semiparametric estimation and variable selection for single‐index copula models
Authors: Yang Bingduo , Hafner Christian M. , Liu Guannan , Long Wei
Published: April 2021

A copula with a flexibly dependence structure can capture complexity and heterogeneity in economic and financial time series. Based on the recently proposed single‐index copula, we propose a simultaneous variable selection and estimation procedure. This method allows for choosing the most relevant state variables by using a penalized estimation with large sample properties derived. Simulation results demonstrate the good performance of the method in selecting relevant state variables and estimating unknown index coefficients and dependence parameters. We apply the proposed procedure to four states' housing markets in the United States and identify six macroeconomic factors that drive their dependence structure.
A novel CD209 polymorphism is associated with rheumatoid arthritis patients in Taiwan
Authors: Chan Hua‐Chen , Wang Shu‐Chen , Lin Chia‐Hui , Lin Yuan‐Zhao , Li Ruei‐Nian , Yen Jeng‐Hsien
Published: April 2021

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of CD209 (cluster of differentiation 209) may influence expression levels, and higher expression of CD209 on immune cells correlate with severity of cartilage destruction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Due to the lack of a comprehensive study, this study aimed to investigate the CD209 promoter variants and haplotypes in a Taiwanese population and the association with RA development. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 126 RA patients and 124 healthy controls was purified, and the CD209 gene promoter was amplified by polymerase chain reaction and analyzed by Sanger sequencing. Results showed that a novel variant −96C>A polymorphism in CD209 promoter was identified in the Taiwanese population, and the frequency was significantly higher in RA patients than in controls (11.51% vs. 2.42%, P < .0001). The odds ratio (OR) for the development of RA was 5.88 (95% CI 2.35–14.74, P < .0001). Other known variants were also evaluated; for instance, −1180 T/T (rs7359874) was increased in RA patients, and the OR for the development of RA was 3.26, 95% CI 0.85–12.52, P = .07). Besides, the haplotype frequencies were calculated; −1180A‐939C‐871 T‐336 T‐139 T‐96A and −1180 T‐939 T‐871C‐336 T‐139C‐96A were increased in RA patients (P = .004 and 0.05, respectively). In summary, CD209‐96A variant could be an important factor for the development of RA in the Taiwanese population.