bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Fodder Crops on Weeds in Summer Rice Fallow
Authors: Bindhya B. N. , John J.
Published: December 2020

In the summer rice fallow of double cropped low land rice filed, four different fodder crops were raised under varying nitrogen regimes with the objective of evaluating its effect on weeds, during 2017-18. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design. The fodder crops were fodder cowpea (CO- 9), rice bean (Bidhan- 2), fodder maize (African tall), fodder sorghum (CO (FS) 31). The varying nitrogen regimes were 100, 75 and 50 per cent recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN). The weed composition in the experimental field included grasses, sedges and broadleaved weeds. Both at 20 and 40 days after sowing (DAS), the weed population was more in fallow treatment. The weed dry matter production was significantly more in the fallow plot. At 40 DAS, weed dry matter production was relatively less in fodder cowpea. Weed smothering efficiency (WSE) was relatively greater in all the fodder crops except fodder cowpea at 20 DAS. However, at 40 DAS the WSE in rice bean, fodder maize and fodder sorghum declined, while in fodder cowpea it increased. Nitrogen removal at 20 and 40 DAS was significantly more in fallow plot. At 40 DAS, both N and P removal by weeds was significantly less in fodder cowpea. At 40 DAS, K removal was significantly less in fodder cowpea especially at 100 and 75 per cent RDN.
Pattern of Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis in HIV Sero Positive Patients in Rivers State Nigeria
Authors: Wele Mary A. Alex- , Onyejepu Nneka , Obunge Orikomaba K.
Published: December 2020

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) presents a major worldwide health concern, especially in immune-suppressed persons, with a high mortality rate. The emergence of drug-resistant variants of TB further weighted down by the high HIV prevalence continues to make it difficult to treat this disease. Nigeria is currently listed among the 30 high burden countries for TB, TB/HIV and drug resistant TB (DR-TB). The current study assessed the resistant patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to first-line anti-TB drugs among individuals with tuberculosis and HIV coinfection in Rivers State.

Methods: A sample size of 260 HIV sero-positive patients were separated into two groups consisting of 130 patients on anti-TB treatment and 130 individuals yet to commence anti-TB treatment. Sputum samples were collected and processed by line probe assay (GenoType®MTBDRplus by HAIN Lifescience).

Results: The study showed that about 61.5% of the subjects with TB/HIV coinfection were between the ages of 26 and 40 years, with a mean age of 37.2 ± 9.6 years, (102) 64.1% of the subjects had drug susceptible TB, 24 (15%) had INH mono-resistant TB, 17 (10.7%) had RIF mono-resistant TB and 16 (10.1%) had multi-drug resistant TB. There was no significant difference observed in the occurrence of drug resistance between the different sexes. The results also showed that 11.0% of the individuals receiving anti-TB treatment had MDR-TB; INH and RIF mono-resistance were observed in 15.7% and 11.8% of these subjects respectively. Amongst subjects that were yet to receive anti-TB treatment, 6.3% had MDR-TB, 12.5% had INH mono-resistant and 6.3% had RIF mono-resistant TB.

Conclusion: The findings of the study indicate that drug-resistant TB appears to be prevalent among persons with TB/HIV coinfection in Rivers State, Nigeria.
Care for Elderly Victims of Violence in Primary Detention
Authors: Ludvig Thaynara , Herrera Sávia Denise Silva Carlotto , Oliveira Neilton Araujo de , Silva Marcos Gontijo da , Nunes Rodrigo Disconzi , Júnior Júlio Cézar Castro de Souza , Gonçalves Caio Willer Brito , Hermández Yuniel Martinez , Araújo Warly Neves de , Alves Rafaela de Carvalho , Mayor Marcela de Souza Sotto , Borges Rafael Vilela
Published: December 2020

Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of care provided to elderly victims of violence, comparing the basic health units (BHU) of the municipality of Gurupi-TO with and without the medical residency program in family and community health.

Study Design:  This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study.

Place and Duration of Study: Study from December 2017 to March 2018. Performed in 12 basic health units (BHU) in the municipality of Gurupi-TO, with a total of 21 family health teams, 10 (ten) have the Family Medical Medical Residency Program (FMMRP) and are distributed in six BHU, totaling approximately 210 individuals, divided into 21 teams.    

Methodology: Study conducted in 12 BHU, in which health workers responded to the QualiAB assessment and monitoring instrument and the data were tested by the chi-square test to verify if there is a difference in care, considering p≤5% through the EPI INFO 3.2.2 program.

Results: We interviewed 107 health workers who found that of the 16 items analyzed, eight had better levels in BHU with MRPFCM.

Conclusion: The presence of MRPFCM programs contributes and improves the quality of service in basic health units, regarding the care of the elderly victims of violence and, as a public policy, should receive support for its expansion and effective incorporation in basic care to SUS users.
Effects of Women Participation in Self-Help Groups on Households’ Economic Status in Tinderet Sub-County, Nandi County, Kenya
Authors: Bargoria Finson Kiprop
Published: December 2020

The involvement of women in Self Help Groups is justified as it serves the welfare of its members through savings, investment, capacity building and loan services. However, in Tinderet Sub-county women still encounter limitations and fewer opportunities, especially in regards to income-generating activities and social status that the government would consider best practice in pursuance of achieving sustainable rural development. The study objective was to establish the effects of women participation in self-help groups on their economic status in Tinderet Sub-County. The study was guided by social network theory. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design which was both quantitative and qualitative research approach. The target population comprised of all registered women self-help groups in Tinderet Sub-county, which was 122 with 1220 members. The study used interview schedule for members and direct observation to collect data. The data collected was qualitative data and quantitative data. Qualitative analysis entailed organizing qualitative data into themes and patterns relevant to the research objective. Quantitative data collected were summarized into frequencies and percentages by the help of statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 20. The results showed that the income level of women increased after joining SHGs. Members had greater self-confidence and can make decisions regarding the household needs. The study recommends that women should be regular and punctual in their monthly contributions. The study results are expected to serve as a guideline in formulating policies and improvement of women self-help groups.
The role of bioactive lipids in attenuating the neuroinflammatory cascade in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Poblete Roy A. , Arenas Marcela , Sanossian Nerses , Freeman William D. , Louie Stan G.
Published: December 2020

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Despite this, there are no proven medical therapies in the pharmacologic management of TBI. A better understanding of disease pathophysiology might lead to novel approaches. In one area of increasing interest, bioactive lipids known to attenuate inflammation might serve as an important biomarker and mediator of disease after TBI. In this review, we describe the pathophysiology of inflammation following TBI, the actions of endogenous bioactive lipids in attenuating neuroinflammation, and their possible therapeutic role in the management of TBI. In particular, specialized pro‐resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) of inflammation represent endogenous compounds that might serve as important biomarkers of disease and potential therapeutic targets. We aim to discuss the current literature from animal models of TBI and limited human experiences that suggest that bioactive lipids and SPMs are mechanistically important to TBI recovery, and by doing so, aim to highlight the need for further clinical and translational research. Early investigations of dietary and parenteral supplementation of pro‐resolving bioactive lipids have been promising. Given the high morbidity and mortality that occurs with TBI, novel approaches are needed.
Fast Response Organic Supramolecular Transistors Utilizing In‐Situ π‐Ion Gels
Authors: Kushida Soh , Smarsly Emanuel , Yoshinaga Kyota , Wacker Irene , Yamamoto Yohei , Schröder Rasmus R. , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: December 2020

Despite their remarkable charge carrier mobility when forming well‐ordered fibers, supramolecular transistors often suffer from poor processability that hinders device integration, resulting in disappointing transconductance and output currents. Here, a new class of supramolecular transistors, π‐ion gel transistors (PIGTs), is presented. An in situ π‐ion gel, which is an unprecedented composite of semiconducting nanofibers and an enclosed ionic liquid, is directly employed as an active material and internal capacitor. In comparison to other supramolecular transistors, a PIGT displays a high transconductance (133 µS) and output current (139 µA at −6 V), while retaining a high charge‐carrier mobility (4.2 × 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1) and on/off ratio (3.7 × 104). Importantly, the unique device configuration and the high ionic conductivity associated with the distinct nanosegregation enables the fastest response among accumulation‐mode electrochemical‐based transistors (<20 µs). Considering the advantages of the absence of dielectric layers and the facile fabrication process, PIGT has great potential to be utilized in printed flexible devices. The device platform is widely applicable to various supramolecular assemblies, shedding light on the interdisciplinary research of supramolecular chemistry and organic electronics.
Large‐Area Electrochromic Devices on Flexible Polymer Substrates with High Optical Contrast and Enhanced Cycling Stability
Authors: Macher Sven , Schott Marco , Dontigny Martin , Guerfi Abdelbast , Zaghib Karim , Posset Uwe , Löbmann Peer
Published: December 2020

Large‐area electrochromic devices (ECDs) based on a cathodically‐coloring, side chain‐modified poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT) derivative and anodically‐coloring Prussian blue (PB) are assembled by a customized sheet‐to‐sheet (S2S) lamination process. The ECDs with two complementary switching “half‐cells”, based on flexible PET‐ITO substrates, offer enhanced optical properties in terms of visible light transmission change (4–53%), contrast ratio (CR = 93.4) and color neutrality (L* = 77.9, a* = −5.9, b* = −0.6) in the bleached state. The cycling stability is monitored for up to 10 000 switching cycles (97% charge retention). The reported optical, electrochemical, and in operando (in situ) spectroelectrochemical data are obtained from small laboratory‐scale ECDs (active area: 5 × 5 cm2). These results, the homogeneity of the large‐area devices and the scalability of the S2S lamination process are confirmed by measurements on the large ECDs with an active area of 45 × 65 cm2. This large‐area electrochromic film technology with high optical contrast and enhanced cycling stability offers an excellent perspective for further development and scale‐up towards pilot production and the commercialization of flexible ECDs upon their unique materials and processing characteristics.
The Synthesis of Pyridyl[2.2]paracyclophanes by Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Pyridine Sulfinates
Authors: Mungalpara Maulik N. , Plieger Paul G. , Rowlands Gareth J.
Published: December 2020

Substituted planar chiral pyridyl[2.2]paracyclophanes were prepared by the palladium‐catalyzed desulfinative cross‐coupling of bromo[2.2]paracyclophanes and pyridine sulfinate salts. Pyridine‐substituted [2.2]paracyclophanes are useful building blocks in the preparation of catalysts, functionalized materials, and luminescent molecules. Yet the synthesis of many pyridine‐substituted [2.2]paracyclophanes is more challenging than expected due to the instability of traditional coupling partners. Pyridine sulfinates offer a solution to this shortcoming, permitting pyridyl[2.2]paracyclophanes to be prepared from readily available bromo[2.2]paracyclophanes. Our preliminary results indicate the potential of this chemistry. Amine, bromine and ester substituted planar chiral pyridines that are hard to synthesize by other methods were formed but formation of (bis)pyridines is still problematic.

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US Trade Aid Payments and the WTO
Authors: Glauber Joseph W.
Published: December 2020

The trade wars initiated by the Trump Administration in 2018 had an adverse effect on US agriculture. Countertariffs imposed by US trading partners had significant effects on US commodity exports, particularly soybeans, and lowered crop and livestock receipts. To shore up political support from farmers, the Trump administration authorized an estimated total of $28 billion to farmers and ranchers in compensation for export losses. While those payments will help the sector in the short term, the aid payments could well prolong problems for the sector beyond 2020 by exacerbating trade tensions and precipitating future WTO disputes.
All‐Solid‐State Sodium Batteries with a Polyethylene Glycol Diacrylate–Na3Zr2Si2PO12 Composite Electrolyte
Authors: Yu Xingwen , Xue Leigang , Goodenough John B. , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: December 2020

A novel sodium‐ion conducting polymer–ceramic solid‐state composite electrolyte is developed for ambient‐temperature sodium batteries. Polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) is used as a polymeric matrix into which ceramic nanoparticles of NASICON‐type Na3Zr2Si2PO12 are integrated. The PEGDA polymeric phase of the composite can maintain an amiable ionic interface between the solid‐state electrolyte and electrodes. The Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic phase not only enhances the sodium‐ion conductivity of the composite but also can suppress the Na dendrites from penetrating through the electrolyte membrane. To optimize the Na+‐ion conductivity, a succinonitrile (SCN) plasticizer is also incorporated. The composite solid electrolyte membranes are fabricated with an ultraviolet (UV) curing process. Through proper management of the composition, the PEGDA‐SCN‐Na3Zr2Si2PO12‐NaClO4 composite solid electrolyte delivers an ionic conductivity of 4.5 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature. All‐solid‐state Na cells with the PEGDA‐SCN‐NaClO4‐Na3Zr2Si2PO12 composite electrolyte are fabricated by coupling a Na2MnFe(CN)6 positive electrode to a Na‐metal negative electrode. The resulting Na ‖ PEGDA‐SCN‐NaClO4‐Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ‖ Na2MnFe(CN)6 cells show remarkable cycling stability.
The mycorrhizal community of the epiphytic orchid Thrixspermum japonicum is strongly biased toward a single Ceratobasidiaceae fungus, despite a wide range of fungal partners
Authors: Rammitsu Kento , Yukawa Tomohisa , Yamashita Yumi , Isshiki Shiro , Ogura‐Tsujita Yuki
Published: December 2020

PREMISE

Orchids depend primarily on mycorrhizal fungi to obtain nutrients throughout their life cycle. Epiphytic orchids account for 69% of orchid diversity. The unstable availability of water and nutrients in their arboreal habitats often results in severe water and nutrient stresses. Consequently, mycorrhizal associations may be important for the survival of epiphytic orchids, but our understanding thereof remains limited. Here, we investigated the mycorrhizal community in a single epiphytic orchid species, using more samples than in any previous study.

METHODS

We assessed the mycorrhizal communities of Thrixspermum japonicum, one of the most common epiphytic orchids in the temperate region of Japan. In total, 144 individuals were collected from 28 host tree species at 20 sites across 1300 km. The mycorrhizal fungi were identified based on nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer sequences and assigned operational taxonomic units (OTUs) based on 97% sequence similarity.

RESULTS

We obtained 24 OTUs; 9 belonged to the Ceratobasidiaceae and 15 to the Tulasnellaceae. These OTUs are widely distributed throughout the phylogenetic trees of the two fungal families. However, a single Ceratobasidiaceae OTU accounted for 49.7% of all fungal sequences and was predominant in samples from 15 host tree species and 12 sites.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results imply that despite having a broad range of mycorrhizal partners, T. japonicum was predominantly associated with a single fungal taxon at most of the sites among the host‐tree species investigated. These findings contribute to elucidating mycorrhizal symbiosis in epiphytic habitats.
N,N‐Dialkylhydrazones as Versatile Umpolung Reagents in Enantioselective Anion‐Binding Catalysis
Authors: Gómez‐Martínez Melania , del Carmen Pérez‐Aguilar María , Piekarski Dariusz G. , Daniliuc Constantin G. , García Mancheño Olga
Published: December 2020

An enantioselective anion‐binding organocatalytic approach with versatile N,N‐dialkylhydrazones (DAHs) as polarity‐reversed (umpolung) nucleophiles is presented. For the application of this concept, a highly ordered hydrogen‐bond (HB) network between a carefully selected CF3‐substituted triazole‐based multidentate HB‐donor catalyst, the ionic substrate and the hydrazone in a supramolecular chiral ion‐pair complex was envisioned. The formation of such a network was further supported by both experimental and computational studies, which showed the crucial role of the anion as a template unit. The asymmetric Reissert‐type reaction of quinolines as a model test reaction chemoselectively delivered highly enantiomerically enriched hydrazones (up 95:5 e.r.) that could be further derivatized to value‐added compounds with up to three stereocenters.
Efficient Amination of Activated and Non‐Activated C(sp3)−H Bonds with a Simple Iron–Phenanthroline Catalyst
Authors: Jarrige Lucie , Zhou Zijun , Hemming Marcel , Meggers Eric
Published: December 2020

A readily available catalyst consisting of iron dichloride in combination with 1,10‐phenanthroline catalyzes the ring‐closing C−H amination of N‐benzoyloxyurea to form imidazolidin‐2‐ones in high yields. The C−H amination reaction is very general and applicable to benzylic, allylic, propargylic, and completely non‐activated aliphatic C(sp3)−H bonds, and it also works for C(sp2)−H bonds. The surprisingly simple method can be performed under open flask conditions.
Engineered Enzymes Enable Selective N‐Alkylation of Pyrazoles With Simple Haloalkanes
Authors: Bengel Ludwig L. , Aberle Benjamin , Egler‐Kemmerer Alexander‐N. , Kienzle Samuel , Hauer Bernhard , Hammer Stephan C.
Published: December 2020

Selective alkylation of pyrazoles could solve a challenge in chemistry and streamline synthesis of important molecules. Here we report catalyst‐controlled pyrazole alkylation by a cyclic two‐enzyme cascade. In this enzymatic system, a promiscuous enzyme uses haloalkanes as precursors to generate non‐natural analogs of the common cosubstrate S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine. A second engineered enzyme transfers the alkyl group in highly selective C−N bond formations to the pyrazole substrate. The cosubstrate is recycled and only used in catalytic amounts. Key is a computational enzyme‐library design tool that converted a promiscuous methyltransferase into a small enzyme family of pyrazole‐alkylating enzymes in one round of mutagenesis and screening. With this enzymatic system, pyrazole alkylation (methylation, ethylation, propylation) was achieved with unprecedented regioselectivity (>99 %), regiodivergence, and in a first example on preparative scale.
Pre‐Planarized Triphenylamine‐Based Linear Mixed‐Valence Charge‐Transfer Systems
Authors: Krug Marcel , Fröhlich Nina , Fehn Dominik , Vogel Alexander , Rominger Frank , Meyer Karsten , Clark Timothy , Kivala Milan , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: December 2020

Three linear dimers with two redox‐active planarized triphenylamines were synthesized and their structures verified by X‐ray crystallography. Their radical cations, which exhibit electron self‐exchange between the two redox centers, are of great interest. This process was thoroughly investigated by means of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, absorption spectroscopy, and (time‐dependent) density functional theory calculations. A comparison of the key parameters of electron transfer with non‐planarized nitrogen‐centered building blocks emphasizes the impact of using redox centers with low internal reorganization energies. However, the distance‐dependence attenuation factor of the super‐exchange mechanisms remains similar.
Mineralized paper scaffolds for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Wu Xinchen , Walsh Kierra , Suvarnapathaki Sanika , Lantigua Darlin , McCarthy Colleen , Camci‐Unal Gulden
Published: December 2020

Mineralized polymer scaffolds have proven to be effective biomaterials for inducing osteoinductivity in bone tissue engineering. Sequential mineralization is a promising technique for depositing minerals in three‐dimensional (3D) scaffolds. Paper, which is made of cellulose fibers, can be used as a tissue scaffold due to its highly porous structure and flexibility, as well as its excellent ability to wick fluids and support the growth of bone cells. In this study, paper‐based, mineralized scaffolds were fabricated using sequential mineralization. We conducted experiments with two groups of scaffolds based on different incubation times in the mineralization solutions (30 min and 24 h). Ten cycles of mineralization were performed for each group. We found that the mineral content increased as the cycle number increased and that the 24‐h group scaffolds consistently had more mineralization than did the 30‐min group scaffolds when measured at the same cycle number. A quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction was performed for two osteogenic differentiation markers of the preosteoblasts that were grown on the mineralized paper scaffolds. The gene expression results for bone‐specific markers revealed that the mineralized scaffolds were osteoinductive. Subcutaneous implantation of the scaffolds in rats demonstrated favorable biocompatibility, high vascularization, and non‐immunogenicity in vivo. The overall results suggest that the sequentially mineralized paper scaffolds are promising materials for use in bone tissue engineering.
TAVR prosthesis recoil: Unknowns and implications
Authors: Belardi Jorge A. , Lamelas Pablo
Published: December 2020

Key Points

TAVR acute recoil has not been properly assessed with current generation balloon‐expandable prosthesis.

Acute recoil was greater during initial deployment than in postdilatation, in middle stent than inflow or outflow, and in antero‐posterior than lateral axis.

No predictors or clinical implications of acute valvular recoil were detected, calling for further research to better understand this phenomenon.
Effect of concomitant aortic regurgitation on early hypoattenuated leaflet thickening after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Krajcer Zvonimir , Costello Briana
Published: December 2020

Key Points

Identification of hypoattenuated leaflet thickening (HALT) and subacute leaflet thrombosis has become widely recognized.

Patients with anatomical changes associated with moderate or greater aortic regurgitation (larger sinus of Valsalva and eccentric left ventricular remodeling) appear to have less HALT early postprocedure compared with those without.

Further research on the risk factors including anatomical and hemodynamic variables should further our knowledge of these entities so we can better manage patient both pre and post TAVR.
Towards a standardized classification of cardiogenic shock: Will the new SCAI staging system translate into better clinical practice and research?
Authors: Nicolas Johny , Mehran Roxana
Published: December 2020

Key Points

The 2019 SCAI shock staging system is a valid risk stratification tool in hemodynamically unstable patients.

Shock stage is a strong predictor of short‐term mortality and its daily re‐assessment may guide the escalation or de‐escalation of therapy.

Additional large‐scale validation studies are needed to confirm the new SCAI shock staging system's validity in clinical practice and research.
Study of blood flow in stenosed artery model using computational fluid dynamics and response surface methodology
Authors: Dwidmuthe Prachi D. , Dastane Gaurav G. , Mathpati Channamallikarjun S. , Joshi Jyeshtharaj B.
Published: December 2020

Stenosis is a type of cardiovascular disease (CVD) which involves the deposition of plaque on the inner wall of the artery, leading to narrowing of the artery, abnormal blood flow patterns and higher wall shear stresses (WSS), which contributes to high blood pressure, thrombus formation, and other chronic diseases. Chemical engineers can play a vital role in the area of haemodynamics using experimental and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. WSS is affected by different values of severity of stenosis and length of stenosis. Hence there is a need for obtaining a quantitative relationship that can easily allow anyone to study flow dynamics in stenosis by studying WSS. In this study, an attempt has been made to develop such a relationship using CFD simulations and response surface methodology (RSM). The design parameters considered in this study are stenosis severity of 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, and D/Ls (diameter of artery/length of stenosis) of 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, and 0.6. WSS and pressure drop across the stenosis were used as a response to assess the effect of these parameters. Blood flow inside the stenosed artery was modelled using large eddy simulation (LES) to predict the turbulent flow fields in the stenosed artery model. Based on the simulation results, correlation of WSS as a function of severity, length of stenosis, and peak Reynolds number was obtained using RSM.
Three‐Dimensional Covalent‐Organic Frameworks Loaded with Highly Dispersed Ultrafine Palladium Nanoparticles as Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Sun Qingzhu , Wu Chenyu , Pan Qingyan , Zhang Baijun , Liu Yamei , Lu Xiaoying , Sun Jing , Sun Lishui , Zhao Yingjie
Published: December 2020

In this work, we exploited the notable advantages of using three‐dimensional covalent organic frameworks (3D COFs) as supports for efficiently and controllably loading Pd. Tetraphenylmethane based 3D COF (TPM‐3D‐COF‐BPY) bearing bipyridine as coordination sites was constructed. A 7‐fold interpenetrated dia structure was revealed by the aid of powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) and structural simulation. The unique side‐by‐side 1D channels of TPM‐3D‐COF‐BPY provide enormous easily accessible active surface areas for heterogeneous catalysis throughout the topological structure. The delicate 7‐fold interpenetration of the bipyridine linked frameworks yields discrete and widespread coordination sites and enables super‐efficient heterogeneous catalysis after metalation of nitrogen coordination sites in TPM‐3D‐COF‐BPY. As a demonstration, Pd(II) was selectively anchored to the bipyridine coordination sites in the TPM‐3D‐COF‐BPY matrix. Further reduction of Pd(II) loaded in the topological structure leads to highly dispersed ultrafine Pd nanoparticles (NPs) with an average size of 1.12 nm confined within channels of TPM‐3D‐COF‐BPY. The as‐prepared Pd@TPM‐3D‐COF‐BPY as heterogeneous catalyst exhibits excellent efficiency, stability, and recyclability in catalyzing the Suziki‐Miyaura coupling reactions reaching a 98% yield within 2 h under facile conditions.
Channel compensation multipath mitigation technique for Kalman‐Based Least Mean Square based on Kalman estimation
Authors: Li Dengao , Wang Xiaoyu , Zhao Jumin , Cheng Junbing
Published: December 2020

In the Global Navigation Satellite System, the traditional adaptive equalization algorithm re‐captures and tracks poor performance under the multipath channel for multipath errors caused by occlusion or reflection of buildings. A channel compensation multipath mitigation technique based on Kalman‐Based Least Mean Square based (KBLMS) on Kalman estimation. First, in the tracking loop of the receiver, a KBLMS‐based delay estimation module is designed to compensate for multipath distortion on the received signal. The coefficients of the filter are adaptively adjusted using the feedback signal. Second, a line of sight best estimate block is designed to generate a control error signal in the feedback loop for adaptively updating the filter coefficients. Finally, the performance of the proposed algorithm is verified by analyzing the performance of KBLMS, Recursive Least Squares (RLSs) and Least Mean Squares (LMS) algorithms through measured data and experimental simulation. The results show that KBLMS can converge quickly in multipath channels compared with RLS and LMS, and the code tracking error and carrier tracking error are reduced by 0.1chip, 0.2 cycle and final residual error is reduced by 0.015 compared with the RLS algorithm, which is 0.035 lower than the LMS algorithm, which shows that the KBLMS algorithm can make more accurate estimation.
Reconstitution and Purification of Nucleosomes with Recombinant Histones and Purified DNA
Authors: Nodelman Ilana M. , Patel Ashok , Levendosky Robert F. , Bowman Gregory D.
Published: December 2020

Nucleosomes are substrates for a broad range of factors, including those involved in transcription or chromosome maintenance/reorganization and enzymes that covalently modify histones. Given the heterogeneous nature of nucleosomes in vivo (i.e., varying histone composition, post‐translational modifications, DNA sequence register), understanding the specificity and activities of chromatin‐interacting factors has required in vitro studies using well‐defined nucleosome substrates. Here, we provide detailed methods for large‐scale PCR preparation of DNA, assembly of nucleosomes from purified DNA and histones, and purification of DNA and mononucleosomes. Such production of well‐defined nucleosomes for biochemical and biophysical studies is key for studying numerous proteins and protein complexes that bind and/or alter nucleosomes and for revealing inherent characteristics of nucleosomes. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Large‐scale PCR amplification of DNA

Basic Protocol 2: DNA and nucleosome purification using a Bio‐Rad Mini Prep Cell/Prep Cell

Basic Protocol 3: Nucleosome reconstitution via linear gradient salt dialysis
Regulatory T cell targeting in cancer: Emerging strategies in immunotherapy
Authors: Dees Sundee , Ganesan Rajkumar , Singh Sanjaya , Grewal Iqbal S.
Published: December 2020

The adaptive immune system is modulated by an important subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes called Treg cells that function in maintaining immune homeostasis by preventing excessive immune activation. Both deficiency and overactivation of Treg cell function can result in disease pathology. While loss of Treg function can lead to autoimmunity, an overabundance of Treg activity can promote tumorigenesis. Blocking and/or depleting Tregs has emerged as a viable strategy to enhance antitumor immunity. A major limitation underlying the limited efficacy observed with Treg therapies in the clinic is lack of selective targeting, often attributed to concurrent depletion of antitumor effector T‐cell populations. Novel approaches to improve the specificity of Treg targeting in the context of cancer include the use of T‐cell receptor mimic antibodies, bispecific antibodies, and near‐infrared photoimmunotherapy. Next‐generation technology platforms and transcriptomic/computational‐based screening methods have been recently developed to identify preferential Treg targets. Herein, we highlight key advancements and challenges pertaining to the development of novel Treg targeting cancer therapeutics and discuss ongoing clinical trials evaluating next‐generation Treg therapies for solid tumors.
Redox Active Hexanuclear Mixed Valence Dicationic Ce(III)/Ce(IV) Coordination Clusters
Authors: Arumugam Selvakumar , Shankar Bhaskaran , Mondal Kartik Chandra
Published: December 2020

A series of mixed valence hexanuclear dicationic coordination clusters containing two µ4‐O2– bridges with general formula M2+(X–)2 [M = CeIV2CeIII4(µ4‐O)2(L–R)4(val)6(H2O)2; 12+, 32+: R = H, 22+: Me; 12+, 22+: X = CeIII2(val)3(NO3)4, 32+: X = NO3] were synthesized, isolated and characterized. The reaction of cerium(III)nitrate hexahydrate with Schiff base ligand (H2L–R) and o‐vanillin (val‐H) under basic condition led to the formation of M2+(X–)2 and the reaction progress was monitored by mass spectrometric studies. The molecular structures of all complexes were unambiguously characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The magnetic susceptibility measurements of M2+(X–)2 showed that the Ce(III) ions are weakly antiferromagnetically coupled. Thermal stability and molar conductivity of M2+(X–)2 were also studied. Complex 32+(X–)2 was further studied by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy to confirm the oxidation states of Ce(III/IV) ions. The M2+ cation was shown to catalyze the TEMPO‐free oxidation of functionalized benzyl alcohols quantitatively to the corresponding benzaldehyde derivatives at 100 °C in presence of aerial O2 using DMF as the solvent.
C(sp2)−Si Bond Functionalization through Intramolecular Activation by Alkoxides
Authors: Curpanen Sebastien , Poli Giovanni , Oble. Julie , Perez‐Luna Alejandro
Published: December 2020

Organosilicon reagents are invaluable tools in the hands of the modern chemist that allow accomplishing a number of synthetically useful transformations. While some are standard reactions, others are more complex transformations, such as the Brook rearrangement and its variants. This carbon‐to‐oxygen silyl migration represents a privileged method to generate transient carbanionic species well suited to undergo functionalization upon electrophilic substitution in the presence of an electrophile. This minireview focuses on recent advances in C(sp2)−Si bond functionalization through intramolecular activation by alkoxides. The key elements of reactivity will be highlighted in the introduction to allow the proper understanding of the migration process. Then, an overview of the reactivity of substrates incorporating the C(sp2)−Si motif and their synthetic applications will be provided.
Numerical simulation of the three‐dimensional dynamics of healthy and hardened red blood cells passing through a stenosed microvessel by immersed boundary‐lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Hsieh Hann‐jeng
Published: December 2020

Red blood cells (RBCs) infected by a malaria‐like disease can change their membrane stiffness and deformability drastically. The objective of this article is to study the three‐dimensional dynamics of healthy and hardened red blood cells passing through a stenosed microchannel in a Poiseuille flow by combining the immersed boundary and lattice Boltzmann methods. We numerically simulate the transient motion of cells of different degrees of membrane stiffness and observe that hardened cells require a longer traverse time to squeeze through the constriction. We found that, compared with a healthy cell, a hardened cell shows much less change in its bending behavior. We also analyzed the projected deformation index and the velocity profiles of the cells passing through the constricted vessel. Different values of viscosity contrast are examined and show a minor effect on the passage time and bending energy change. In addition, a previous study of the dynamics of a group of three RBCs passing through a constricted microchannel is extended to three‐dimensional in the current work.
A novel approach for optimal allocation of series FACTS device for transmission line congestion management
Authors: Sarwar Md , Siddiqui Anwar Shahzad
Published: December 2020

The reformed electricity market structure has forced the transmission network to operate near its operational limits. Due to competition in electricity market and with increasing demand, the probability of occurrence of congestion in transmission network has also increased. This resulted in insecure operation of power system and inefficient operation of the electricity market. The main aim of this article is to achieve efficient management of congestion in terms of minimum cost of electricity. This is accomplished by optimally allocating thyristor‐controlled series capacitor (TCSC) in the system. Since flexible alternating current transmission system (FATCS) devices involve heavy installation cost, its proper allocation plays a vital role in achieving the electricity market economics. Therefore, in this article, a new sensitivity index called line flow sensitivity factor is proposed to find the optimal location of TCSC while its control parameter setting is optimally obtained with particle swarm optimization algorithm. The obtained results are validated through implementation of TCSC based on its minimum installation cost. Further, two different penalty factors for violation of system constraints are also introduced in the problem formulation to effectively consider the competitive nature of the electricity market. The proposed method is tested on IEEE 30‐bus system, IEEE 118‐bus system, and 33‐bus Indian network and the results are found to be encouraging. The performance of the optimization algorithm on different systems is also analyzed in this article.
Probabilistic Steady State Voltage Stability Assessment Method for Correlated Wind Energy and Solar Photovoltaic Integrated Power Systems
Authors: Rawat Mahiraj Singh , Vadhera Shelly
Published: December 2020

Herein, a novel method for the assessment of steady state probabilistic voltage stability margins (PVSMs) in power systems considering generation and load demand uncertainty is investigated. The steady state VSM in an uncertain environment is jointly analyzed through continuous power flow (CPF) and the three point estimation method (3PEM). The statistical distribution of the VSM is obtained using Cornish–Fisher (CF) expansion series. Results are compared with the benchmark Monte Carlo simulation method. Probabilistic models of grid‐connected wind and solar photovoltaic energy sources are utilized in this study. For identification of weak/strong buses and contingency ranking of transmission lines, a steady state voltage stability index, the L‐index, is utilized. The validation of the proposed method is analyzed through IEEE 24 bus and 118 bus test systems. For a realistic study of the system, correlations among wind speeds, solar power outputs, and load demands are considered with various static load models, i.e., constant impedance (CZ), constant current (CI), constant power (CP), and ZIP. Moreover, the concept of relative electrical distance (RED) is applied for selecting the conventional generators for power balancing. The results reveal that factors such as load characteristics and correlations have significant effects on PVSM.
Characterization of flavor volatile compounds in industrial stir‐frying mutton sao zi by GC‐MS, E‐nose, and physicochemical analysis
Authors: Bai Shuang , Wang Yongrui , Luo Ruiming , Ding Dan , Bai He , Shen Fei
Published: December 2020

This study aims to investigate the flavor changes of industrial stir‐frying mutton sao zi, a mutton product popular in the northwest of China, at different stir‐frying stages. Electronic nose (E‐nose) was used to recognize mutton sao zi odors at different processing time points, and the individual volatile compounds were further identified by the solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). A total of 105 volatile compounds were detected by GC‐MS, of which 51 were major volatile compounds. Additionally, GC‐MS and E‐nose data of the samples were also correlated with the fatty acids, crude composition (moisture, fat, protein), and amino acids. The stir‐frying time and temperature may be the critical contributors to different flavors of industrial stir‐frying mutton sao zi. The signal intensities of W1S, W1W, W2S, W2W, and W3S sensors positively correlate with protein, fat, and 18 amino acids, but negatively with SFA and moisture. Hence, this study explored the flavor changes of industrial stir‐frying mutton sao zi by E‐nose and SPME‐GC‐MS for the first time, providing an insight into the industrial production and flavor control stir‐frying machine of stir‐frying mutton products with household flavor.
Climate and Clean Energy to Take Center Stage
Authors: Cartwright Echo D.
Published: December 2020

The energy industry and related markets are poised to undergo a significant transition as President‐elect Joe Biden takes the oath of office on January 20th. The president‐elect has indicated that climate change and investing in the country's clean energy infrastructure, and basic and applied research, are top priorities for his administration. President‐elect Biden is also said to be targeting reversals of rollbacks of critical environmental protection regulations by the Trump administration, such as weakened industrial pollution regulations, reductions in automobile and appliance efficiency standards, and opening up of federal lands to oil and gas extraction.
Electrification: A Pathway to Our Climate Commitments
Authors: de Ramos Kevin Monte
Published: December 2020

Global momentum is building within the energy industry for electrification—the replacement of fossil fuel consuming end‐use technologies and transportation vehicles with no‐ or low‐carbon alternatives. Electrification is a response to broad societal mandates to decarbonize the energy and other sectors as a means to achieve national climate commitments. A debate is evolving across differing jurisdictions around the pace at which the market transformation is to occur and the ability of society to bear the costs of this transformation.
Unmanned aerial vehicle oblique photography‐based superposed fold analysis of outcrops in the Xuhuai region, North China
Authors: Lai Hongyu , Liu Liping , Liu Xiao , Zhang Yongming , Xuan Xiaohu
Published: December 2020

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) oblique photography technology is widely utilized in various fields owing to such advantages as true three‐dimensional (3D), high precision, and low expenses. We explored the application of UAV oblique photography in the superposed fold analysis conducted in the Xuhuai region. Three feasible and time‐efficient steps were established to fulfil the task. The tile images from UAV oblique photography are first synthesized on the Altizure website into a 3D outcrop model, which is then imported into ArcScene to extract bedding and lineation attitudes by GeoAnalysis Tools. The fold geometry and superposed style were characterized and analysed based on the 3D model, followed by extending the 3D structure morphology across the entire outcrop scale and illustrating the superposition style and sequence in the GOCAD platform. The geological conclusions were drawn by applying the method for analysing two outcrops in the Xuhuai region. Two phases of folds were identified, with the first generation nearly E‐W‐trending oblique‐recumbent folds overprinted by the second‐generation NNE‐NE‐trending wide and upright folds. The nearly E‐W‐striking fold is inferred to be related to the compressive orogeny in the Dabie Orogenic Belt in the Triassic. The NNE‐NE‐striking fold is related to the northwest subduction of the Pacific Plate or the northward thrust of the Sulu Orogenic Belt in the Jurassic. This example demonstrates that UAV oblique photography is a powerful and reliable method for structural analysis at the outcrop scale, especially for the inaccessible outcrops with weak vegetation cover.
Ten years of enhancing neuro‐imaging genetics through meta‐analysis: An overview from the ENIGMA Genetics Working Group
Authors: Medland Sarah E. , Grasby Katrina L. , Jahanshad Neda , Painter Jodie N. , Colodro‐Conde Lucía , Bralten Janita , Hibar Derrek P. , Lind Penelope A. , Pizzagalli Fabrizio , Thomopoulos Sophia I. , Stein Jason L. , Franke Barbara , Martin Nicholas G. , Thompson Paul M. ,   ENIGMA Genetics Working Group
Published: December 2020

Here we review the motivation for creating the enhancing neuroimaging genetics through meta‐analysis (ENIGMA) Consortium and the genetic analyses undertaken by the consortium so far. We discuss the methodological challenges, findings, and future directions of the genetics working group. A major goal of the working group is tackling the reproducibility crisis affecting “candidate gene” and genome‐wide association analyses in neuroimaging. To address this, we developed harmonized analytic methods, and support their use in coordinated analyses across sites worldwide, which also makes it possible to understand heterogeneity in results across sites. These efforts have resulted in the identification of hundreds of common genomic loci robustly associated with brain structure. We have found both pleiotropic and specific genetic effects associated with brain structures, as well as genetic correlations with psychiatric and neurological diseases.
Pretreatment serum vitamin level predicts severity of radiation‐induced oral mucositis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chen Gaili , Jiang Huangang , Jiang Dazhen , Wu Qiuji , Li Zheng , Hua Xinying , Hu Xiaoyan , Zhao Hongli , Wang Xiaoyong , Yu Haijun , Xie Conghua , Zhong Yahua
Published: December 2020

Background

Radiation‐induced mucositis (RIOM) is a common radiotherapy toxicity. We aimed to evaluate the relationship of serum vitamin status with RIOM among nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients who underwent radiotherapy.

Methods

NPC patients who underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy with available pretreatment serum vitamin values were included. Serum vitamin levels and clinical characteristics were collected. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves were conducted to explore the potential risk factors and corresponding cut‐off values for severe RIOM.

Results

Two hundred and forty NPC patients were enrolled. Multivariate regression analysis showed that mean oral cavity radiation dose (OR = 2.042; 95% CI = 1.585‐2.630; P < .001), weekly concurrent chemotherapy (OR = 3.898; 95% CI = 1.085‐14.004; P = .037), lower serum level of vitamin B2 (OR = 0.951; 95% CI = 0.924‐0.978; P < .001), and vitamin C (OR = 0.455; 95% CI = 0.346‐0.598; P < .001) were independent risk factors for developing severe RIOM.

Conclusions

The findings of this study revealed that serum vitamin status could predict the severity of RIOM, providing a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of RIOM.
Does foreign direct investments in financial services induce financial development? Lessons from emerging economies
Authors: P Jithin , M Suresh Babu
Published: December 2020

We employ panel Vector Error Correction Models (VECM) and cointegration framework to identify the existence and direction of the causal association between foreign direct investment (FDI) in financial services and financial development for 26 emerging economies for the period 2003–2015. Our results show that there exists a long‐run cointegrating relationship between financial development and FDI in financial services after incorporating the extent of heterogeneity among emerging economies. We find long run unidirectional causality from financial development to financial services FDI. Using fully modified OLS (FMOLS) estimation, we estimate the long run elasticities between financial services FDI and financial development. Our results show that financial development has a positive and significant impact on FDI in financial services, which implies that a country with well‐developed financial markets tend to attract larger amounts of FDI in financial services.