bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semiconductor Bow‐Tie Nanoantenna from Coupled Colloidal Quantum Dot Molecules
Authors: Cui Jiabin , Koley Somnath , Panfil Yossef E. , Levi Adar , Waiskopf Nir , Remennik Sergei , Oded Meirav , Banin Uri
Published: April 2021

Top‐down fabricated nanoantenna architectures of both metallic and dielectric materials show powerful functionalities for Raman and fluorescence enhancement with relevance to single molecule sensing while inducing directionality of chromophore emission with implications for single photon sources. We synthesize the smallest bow‐tie nanoantenna by selective tip‐to‐tip fusion of two tetrahedral colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) forming a dimer. While the tetrahedral monomers emit non‐polarized light, the bow‐tie architecture manifests nanoantenna functionality of enhanced emission polarization along the bow‐tie axis, as predicted theoretically and revealed by single‐particle spectroscopy. Theory also predicts the formation of an electric‐field hotspot at the bow‐tie epicenter. This is utilized for selective light‐induced photocatalytic metal growth at that location, unlike growth on the free tips in dark conditions, thus demonstrating bow‐tie dimer functionality as a photochemical reaction center.
The Boundary of Lithium Plating in Graphite Electrode for Safe Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cai Wenlong , Yan Chong , Yao Yu‐Xing , Xu Lei , Chen Xiao‐Ru , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: April 2021

Uncontrolled Li plating in graphite electrodes endangers battery life and safety, driving tremendous efforts aiming to eliminate Li plating. Herein we systematically investigate the boundary of Li plating in graphite electrode for safe lithium‐ion batteries. The cell exhibits superior safety performance than that with Li dendrites by defining the endurable amount of uniform Li plating in graphite anode. The presence of “dead Li” can be eliminated owing to the uniform distribution of Li plating, and the average Coulombic efficiency for deposited Li during reversible plating/stripping process is decoupled as high as about 99.5 %. Attributing to the limited Li plating with superior Coulombic efficiency, the LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 | graphite cell achieves a high capacity retention of 80.2 % over 500 cycles. This work sheds a different light on further improving the fast‐charging capability, low‐temperature performance, and energy density of practical lithium‐ion batteries.
CO2 hydrogenation to C5+ hydrocarbons over K‐promoted Fe/CNT catalyst: Effect of potassium on structure–activity relationship
Authors: Dai Liya , Chen Yao , Liu Renjie , Li Xin , Ullah Niamat , Li Zhenhua
Published: April 2021

Developing efficient catalysts for direct CO2 hydrogenation to fuel hydrocarbons is of great significance for the effective utilization of CO2, and C5+ selectivity is one critical indicator for the process economics. In this work, a series of K‐promoted Fe/CNT catalysts were prepared by the co‐impregnation method, and their catalytic performance for CO2 hydrogenation was studied in a slurry‐bed reactor. As a result, CO2 conversion and C5+ selectivity showed positive correlation with the increase of K/Fe ratio from 0 to 0.3, but further increase of K/Fe ratio above 0.3 slightly affected its. The catalyst with a K/Fe molar ratio of 0.3 achieved the best performance with CO2 conversion of 23.7% and C5+ selectivity of 56%. In addition, the structure–activity relationship of the catalyst was discussed based on various characterization results. K‐modified catalysts presented a higher specific surface area and stronger CO2 chemisorption, which helped to improve CO2 conversion and C5+ selectivity. However, excessive potassium loading caused a loss of specific surface area, reduction degree, and graphitization degree of the catalyst, which inhibited the CO2 chemisorption and the formation of C5+ hydrocarbons.
Understanding of mechanistic perspective in sensing of energetic nitro compounds through spectroscopic and electrochemical studies
Authors: Ture Satish A. , Patil Veerabhadragouda B. , Yelamaggad Channabasaveshwar V. , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Abbaraju Venkataraman
Published: April 2021

Understanding the probable mechanism of detection plays a significant role in selecting a particular fluorophore for the detection of the complicated and low volatile analyte namely, nitroaromatic and non‐aromatic high energy materials (HEMs) in the development of detection devices when compared with the existing techniques. The fluorescence quenching employing conducting polymers‐based response of HEMs have attained great significance in recent times. Amongst all conducting polymers, functionalized polyaniline can act as a fluorophore in quenching studies. This report also reveals the importance of studying electrochemical methods associated with the changes observed in the oxidation potential and its resemblance with fluorescence quenching study in establishing the probable mechanism associated with the sensing study of HEMs (viz., RDX, PETN, CL‐20 and RDX: CL‐20 Cocrystal). FTIR and resonance Raman characterization helped us to understand the interaction between nitro groups present in HEMs with benzenoid unit or polaronic or bipolaronic nitrogen of camphor sulfonic acid doped polyaniline (CSA[PANi]). Employing Stern Volmer plot, the efficiency of quenching and quenching mechanisms of complex structure formed between the fluorophore and HEMs is understood.
Neural coding of formant‐exaggerated speech and nonspeech in children with and without autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Chen Fei , Zhang Hao , Ding Hongwei , Wang Suiping , Peng Gang , Zhang Yang
Published: April 2021

The presence of vowel exaggeration in infant‐directed speech (IDS) may adapt to the age‐appropriate demands in speech and language acquisition. Previous studies have provided behavioral evidence of atypical auditory processing towards IDS in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), while the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms remain unknown. This event‐related potential (ERP) study investigated the neural coding of formant‐exaggerated speech and nonspeech in 24 4‐ to 11‐year‐old children with ASD and 24 typically‐developing (TD) peers. The EEG data were recorded using an alternating block design, in which each stimulus type (exaggerated/non‐exaggerated sound) was presented with equal probability. ERP waveform analysis revealed an enhanced P1 for vowel formant exaggeration in the TD group but not in the ASD group. This speech‐specific atypical processing in ASD was not found for the nonspeech stimuli which showed similar P1 enhancement in both ASD and TD groups. Moreover, the time‐frequency analysis indicated that children with ASD showed differences in neural synchronization in the delta‐theta bands for processing acoustic formant changes embedded in nonspeech. Collectively, the results add substantiating neurophysiological evidence (i.e., a lack of neural enhancement effect of vowel exaggeration) for atypical auditory processing of IDS in children with ASD, which may exert a negative effect on phonetic encoding and language learning.

Lay summary

Atypical responses to motherese might act as a potential early marker of risk for children with ASD. This study investigated the neural responses to such socially relevant stimuli in the ASD brain, and the results suggested a lack of neural enhancement responding to the motherese even in individuals without intellectual disability.
Using Check‐If‐Apply Lists to Improve Communication About Aesthetic Water Issues
Authors: Dietrich Andrea M. , Burlingame Gary A.
Published: April 2021

Key Takeaways

If not addressed quickly and competently by utility staff, aesthetic issues with water can erode customer trust and confidence.

Check‐if‐apply lists are an effective way for utilities to communicate with customers and collect useful information about both water appearance and taste and odor.

Making check‐if‐apply lists easily accessible to utility staff and customers is one way to keep aesthetic water issues in check; another is for utilities to track issues and make sure checklists are kept up to date.
Considering Risks When Managing Legionella Growth in Plumbing
Authors: Cotruvo Joseph A. , Fawell John
Published: April 2021

Key Takeaways

By understanding conditions in their customers’ plumbing systems, water utilities can select primary and supplemental treatment approaches to reduce public health concerns related to regrowth of Legionella.

Because biofilm allows Legionella and other microorganisms to shelter from disinfectant residuals, controlling it is key to preventing bacterial regrowth in premise plumbing systems.

Supplemental disinfection approaches include chemical disinfection, shock heat treatment, shock chlorination, and abrasive scouring.
Statische Analyse mit 3D‐Gebäudemodellen unter Berücksichtigung zeitabhängiger Verformungen in den vertikalen Bauteilen
Authors: Laggner Thomas Markus , Schlicke Dirk , Tue Nguyen Viet , Denk Wolf‐Dietrich
Published: April 2021

Die statische Analyse des Lastflusses mittels 3D‐Gebäudemodellen ist in der Praxis weit verbreitet – aber nicht unumstritten. Üblicherweise werden linear elastische Berechnungsmodelle aufgebaut, die aber mitunter deutlich andere Ergebnisse als eine konventionelle Berechnung mit extrahierten 2D‐Teilmodellen liefern. Diese Unterschiede wurden in einem vorangegangenen Beitrag der Autoren behandelt. Der vorliegende Beitrag schließt daran an und beschäftigt sich nun eingehend damit, wie sich zeitabhängige Betonverformungen in den vertikalen Bauteilen auf die Berechnungsergebnisse von 3D‐Gebäudemodellen auswirken. Zeitabhängige Betonverformungen treten natürlich auch in den horizontalen Bauteilen auf und beeinflussen den vertikalen Lastfluss zusätzlich. Diese Effekte wurden aber zunächst bewusst ausgeklammert und sollen in zukünftigen Beiträgen der Autoren behandelt werden. Die Untersuchungen erfolgen an einem 15‐stöckigen repräsentativen Stahlbetonhochhaus, das bereits Grundlage für die linear elastischen Untersuchungen in dem vorangegangenen Beitrag war. Im Detail werden die vertikalen Bauteile im verwendeten Rechenmodell nun mit zeitdiskreten Materialmodellen angereichert und durch die vorhandene Bewehrung ergänzt, um die Auswirkungen durch „innere“ Behinderung abzubilden. Insgesamt bewirkt das zeitabhängige Verformungsverhalten von Beton in den vertikalen Bauteilen deutliche Unterschiede in der Schnittgrößenverteilung im Vergleich zu einer linear elastischen Analyse. Zur Vereinfachung der hohen Komplexität von zeitdiskreten Analysen wurde auf Grundlage der gewonnenen Erkenntnisse eine ingenieurmäßige Vorgehensweise für die praktische Anwendung entwickelt und auf Tauglichkeit überprüft.
Maternal immune activation alters adult behavior, intestinal integrity, gut microbiota and the gut inflammation
Authors: Li Wenqiang , Chen Mengxue , Feng Xia , Song Meng , Shao Minglong , Yang Yongfeng , Zhang Luwen , Liu Qing , Lv Luxian , Su Xi
Published: April 2021

Background

Schizophrenia is characterized by several core behavioral features, in which the gastrointestinal symptoms are frequently reported. Maternal immune activation (MIA) has been developed in a rodent model to study neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia. However, the changes in the gut environment of MIA rats remain largely unknown.

Methods

10 mg/kg of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) on gestational day 9 was intravenously administered to rats to induce MIA in order to assess changes in behavior, the intestinal barrier and microbiota in offspring.

Results

Maternal immune activation offspring shown increased anxiety as indicated by reduced exploration of central area in open field test and decreased exploration of open arms in elevated plus test. Cognitive impairment of MIA offspring was confirmed by reduced exploration of novel arm in Y maze test and deficiency of PPI. Intestinal muscle thickness became thinner and some specific microbial anomalies previously identified clinically were observed in MIA offspring. In addition, an increase of inflammatory responses was found in the gut of MIA offspring.

Conclusions

Maternal immune activation alters behavior, intestinal integrity, gut microbiota and the gut inflammation in adult offspring.
A Bi‐Enzymatic Cascade Pathway towards Optically Pure FAHFAs**
Authors: Zhang Yan , Eser Bekir Engin , Guo Zheng
Published: April 2021

Recently discovered endogenous mammalian lipids, fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs), have been proved to have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐diabetic effects. Due to their extremely low abundancies in vivo, forging a feasible scenario for FAHFA synthesis is critical for their use in uncovering biological mechanisms or in clinical trials. Here, we showcase a fully enzymatic approach, a novel in vitro bi‐enzymatic cascade system, enabling an effective conversion of nature‐abundant fatty acids into FAHFAs. Two hydratases from Lactobacillus acidophilus were used for converting unsaturated fatty acids to various enantiomeric hydroxy fatty acids, followed by esterification with another fatty acid catalyzed by Candida antarctica lipase A (CALA). Various FAHFAs were synthesized in a semi‐preparative scale using this bi‐enzymatic approach in a one‐pot two‐step operation mode. In all, we demonstrate that the hydratase‐CALA system offers a promising route for the synthesis of optically pure structure‐diverse FAHFAs.
Timing of Impella implantation and outcomes in cardiogenic shock or high‐risk percutaneous coronary revascularization
Authors: Tarantini Giuseppe , Masiero Giulia , Burzotta Francesco , Pazzanese Vittorio , Briguori Carlo , Trani Carlo , Piva Tommaso , De Marco Federico , Di Biasi Maurizio , Pagnotta Paolo , Mojoli Marco , Casu Gavino , Giustino Gennaro , Lorenzoni Giulia , Montorfano Matteo , Ancona Marco B. , Pappalardo Federico , Chieffo Alaide ,   IMPella Mechanical Circulatory Support Device in Italy (IMP‐IT) Registry authors
Published: April 2021

Objective

To evaluate the role of the microaxial percutaneous mechanical circulatory support device (Impella® pump) implantation pre‐percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) versus during/after PCI in cardiogenic shock (CS) and high‐risk PCI populations.

Background

A better understanding of the safety and effectiveness of the Impella and the role of timing of this support initiation in specific clinical settings is of utmost clinical relevance.

Methods

A total of 365 patients treated with Impella 2.5/CP in the 17 centers of the IMP‐IT Registry were included. Through propensity‐score weighting (PSW) analysis, 1‐year clinical outcomes were assessed separately in CS and HR‐PCI patients, stratified by timing of Impella support.

Results

Pre‐procedural insertion was associated with an improvement in 1‐year survival in patients with CS due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) treated with PCI (p = .04 before PSW, p = .009 after PSW) and HR‐PCI (p < .01 both before and after PSW). Among patients undergoing HR‐PCI, early Impella support was also associated with a lower rate of the composite of mortality, re‐hospitalization for heart failure, and need for left‐ventricular assist device/heart transplantation at 1‐year (p = .04 before PSW, p = .01 after PSW). Furthermore, Impella use during/after PCI was associated with an increased in‐hospital life‐threatening and severe bleeding among patients with AMI‐CS receiving PCI (7 vs. 16%, p = .1) and HR‐PCI (1 vs. 9%, p = .02).

Conclusions

Our findings suggested a survival benefit and reduced rates of major bleeding when a pre‐PCI Impella implantation instead of during‐after procedure was used in the setting of HR‐PCI and AMI‐CS.
Native Mass Spectrometry for the Study of PROTAC GNE‐987‐Containing Ternary Complexes
Authors: Sternicki Louise M. , Nonomiya Jim , Liu Miaomiao , Mulvihill Melinda M. , Quinn Ronald J.
Published: April 2021

PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) promote the degradation, rather than inhibition, of a drug target as a mechanism for therapeutic treatment. Bifunctional PROTAC molecules allow simultaneous binding of both the target protein and an E3‐Ubiquitin ligase, bringing the two proteins into close spatial proximity to allow ubiquitinylation and degradation of the target protein via the cell's endogenous protein degradation pathway. We utilized native mass spectrometry (MS) to study the ternary complexes promoted by the previously reported PROTAC GNE‐987 between Brd4 bromodomains 1 and 2, and Von Hippel Lindeau E3‐Ubiquitin Ligase. Native MS at high resolution allowed us to measure ternary complex formation as a function of PROTAC concentration to provide a measure of complex affinity and stability, whilst simultaneously measuring other intermediate protein species. Native MS provides a high‐throughput, low sample consumption, direct screening method to measure ternary complexes for PROTAC development.
Prognostic factors for progression in patients with Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia in complete molecular response within 3 months of therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Sasaki Koji , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Short Nicholas J. , Samra Bachar , Khoury Joseph D. , Kanagal Shamanna Rashmi , Konopleva Marina , Jain Nitin , DiNardo Courtney D. , Khouri Rita , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Kadia Tapan M. , Wierda William G. , Khouri Issa F. , Kebriaei Partow , Mehta Rohtesh S. , Champlin Richard E. , Garris Rebecca , Cheung Cora Marie , Daver Naval , Thompson Philip A. , Yilmaz Musa , Ravandi Farhad , Jabbour Elias
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

The achievement of a 3‐month complete molecular response (CMR) is a major prognostic factor for survival in patients with Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, 25% of patients relapse during therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).

METHODS

The authors reviewed 204 patients with Ph‐positive ALL who were treated between January 2001 and December 2018 using the combination of hyper‐CVAD (hyperfractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone) plus a TKI (imatinib, 44 patients [22%]; dasatinib, 88 patients [43%]; or ponatinib, 72 patients [35%]). Progression‐free survival (PFS) was defined as the time from the start date of therapy to the date of relapse, death, or last follow‐up. Overall survival (OS) was defined as the time from the start date of therapy to the date of death or last follow‐up.

RESULTS

Overall, a 3‐month CMR was observed in 57% of patients, including 32% of those who received imatinib, 52% of those who received dasatinib, and 74% of those who received ponatinib. The median follow‐up was 74 months (imatinib, 180 months; dasatinib, 106 months; ponatinib, 43 months). Among 84 patients in 3‐month CMR, 17 (20%) proceeded to undergo allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT). The 5‐year PFS and OS rates were 68% and 72%, respectively. By multivariate analysis, ponatinib therapy was the only significant favorable independent factor predicting for progression (P = .028; hazard ratio, 0.388; 95% CI, 0.166‐0.904) and death (P = .042; hazard ratio, 0.379; 95% CI, 0.149‐0.966). ASCT was not a prognostic factor for PFS and OS by univariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with Ph‐positive ALL, ponatinib is superior to other types of TKIs in inducing and maintaining a CMR, thus preventing disease progression. ASCT does not improve outcome once a 3‐month CMR is achieved.
Prognostic and clinicopathological value of circPVT1 in human cancers: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Zhengjun , Tang Xianzhe , Wang Lu , Ling Lin
Published: April 2021

Background

Circular RNA PVT1 (circPVT1) is significantly upregulated in various human cancers and is related to poor clinical outcome of cancer patients. However, the prognostic and clinicopathological value of circPVT1 in diverse human cancers remains controversial and inconclusive.

Aim

The objective of our study is to evaluate the prognostic and clinicopathological role of circPVT1 for cancer patients.

Methods and results

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for eligible studies by October 1, 2020. The correlation between circPVT1 expression, and overall survival (OS) and clinical parameters was assessed by pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses, heterogeneity, and publication bias were conducted to further enhance reliability. Twelve studies (1282 patients) were selected for this meta‐analysis, including 11 on prognosis and 10 on clinicopathological parameters. Elevated expression of circPVT1 was associated with a worse OS in cancer patients (HR, 2.009; 95% CI, 1.667‐2.408, 1.892; P < .001). For clinicopathological value, upregulation of circPVT1 was closely related to poor clinical parameters lymph node metastasis (OR = 2.019; 95% CI, 1.026‐3.976; P = .042; I2 = 77.5%; PH = 0.000), late clinical stage (OR = 3.594; 95% CI, 1.828‐7.065; P < .001; I2 = 71.7%; PH = 0.001), distant metastasis (OR = 4.598; 95% CI, 1.411‐14.988; P = .011; I2 = 78.1%; PH = 0.001), and chemoresistant (OR = 6.400; 95% CI, 2.107‐19.441; P = .001; I2 = 49.6%; PH = 0.159).

Conclusion

High expression of circPVT1 is correlated with unfavorable prognosis of cancer patients, indicating that circPVT1 can function as a potential prognostic biomarker in human cancer.
Exciplex Formation in Lipid‐bound Escherichia coli Flavohemoglobin
Authors: Marcelli Agnese , Patrizi Barbara , Bonamore Alessandra , Boffi Alberto , Becucci Maurizio , Foggi Paolo
Published: April 2021

Flavohemoglobins have the particular capability of binding unsaturated and cyclopropanated fatty acids as free acids or phospholipids. Fatty acid binding to the ferric heme results in a weak but direct bonding interaction. Ferrous and ferric protein, in presence or absence of a bound lipid molecule, have been characterized by transient absorption spectroscopy. Measurements have been also carried out both on the ferrous deoxygenated and on the CO bound protein to investigate possible long‐range interaction between the lipid acyl chain moiety and the ferrous heme. After excitation of the deoxygenated derivatives the relaxation process reveals a slow dynamics (350 ps) in lipid‐bound protein but is not observed in the lipid‐free protein. The latter feature and the presence of an extra contribution in the absorption spectrum, indicates that the interaction of iron heme with the acyl chain moiety occurs only in the excited electronic state and not in the ground electronic state. Data analysis highlights the formation of a charge‐transfer complex in which the iron ion of the lipid‐bound protein in the expanded electronic excited state, possibly represented by a high spin Fe III intermediate, is able to bind to the sixth coordination ligand placed at a distance of at 3.5 Å from the iron. A very small nanosecond geminate rebinding is observed for CO adduct in lipid‐free but not in the lipid‐bound protein. The presence of the lipid thus appears to inhibit the mobility of CO in the heme pocket.
Electrografting of Carbon Surfaces with Aliphatic Chains and its Effect on the Rectification of Ferrocene as Redox Probe in Solution
Authors: Ramírez‐Chan Daniel E. , Frontana Carlos , González Felipe J.
Published: April 2021

The mediated oxidation of acetate and octanoate ions in acetonitrile was used to covalently modify carbon surfaces with films bearing saturated aliphatic chains of different length. Film thickness increases proportionally with the length of the aliphatic chain within the carboxylate precursor. The thickest film was obtained from octanoate oxidation and rectification occurs when ferrocene is used as redox probe in acetonitrile solution. This effect increases with the bulky and hydrophobic nature of the supporting electrolyte cations; n‐Hx4N+>n‐Bu4N+>Me4N+. The combination of the bulky and hydrophobic properties of the supporting electrolyte ions as well as the hydrophobic properties of the electrografted films is the basis of rectification of ferrocene in cyclic voltammetry experiments. This phenomenon was simulated through a CEC mechanism in solution, where the mass transport inside the film channels was emulated through single chemical equilibria.
Tailored Solution‐Based N‐heterotriangulene Thin Films: Unravelling the Self‐Assembly
Authors: Hawly Tim , Streller Fabian , Johnson Manuel , Miguez‐Lago Sandra , Hammer Natalie , Hampel Frank , Vivod Dustin , Zahn Dirk , Kivala Milan , Branscheid Robert , Spiecker Erdmann , Fink Rainer H.
Published: April 2021

The ability of a series of bridged triarylamines, so‐called N‐heterotriangulenes, to form multilayer‐type 2D‐extended films via a solution‐based processing method was examined using complementary microscopic techniques. We found that the long‐range order, crystallinity, and layer thickness decisively depend on the nature of the substituents attached to the polycyclic backbone. Owing to their flat core unit, compounds exhibiting a carbonyl unit at the bridge position provide a superior building block as compared to thioketone‐bridged derivatives. In addition, nature and length of the peripheral substituents affect the orientation of the aromatic core unit within highly crystalline films. Hence, our results stress the significance of a suitable molecular framework and provide deeper understanding of structure formation in 2D‐confined surroundings for such compounds.
Nano Sn2S3 Embedded in Nitrogenous‐Carbon Compounds for Long‐Life and High‐Rate Cycling Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zeng Tianbiao , Chen Gang , Peng Qimeng , Feng Dong , Wang Qian
Published: April 2021

Metallic tin (Sn) compounds are viewed as promising candidates for sodium‐ion batteries (SIB) anode materials yet suffer from large volume expansion and limited electrode kinetics. Manufacturing rational structure is a crucial factor to achieve high‐efficiency sodium storage for SIBs. In this study, nano Sn2S3 embedded in nitrogenous‐carbon compounds (nano‐Sn2S3/C) was designed for SIB anode materials via a facile three‐step strategy: precipitation, heat treatment and vulcanization with no templating agent. Density functional theory calculations suggested that Sn2S3 displayed a low Na+ diffusion energy barrier and the Sn−S bonds could be rebuilt during the sodiation/de‐sodiation process. Notably, electrochemical measurements coupled with ex‐situ X‐ray diffraction and ex‐situ transmission electron microscopy were proposed to reveal the underlying Na+ storage mechanisms. Sn2S3 acted as a high‐capacity composition, while the porous nitrogenous‐carbon matrix served as a rigid‐conductive frame to accommodate the volume expansion and prevented the aggregation of nano Sn2S3. The rationally generated architectures benefited greatly in rate capacity and structural stability. As expected, the as‐prepared nano Sn2S3/C exhibited remarkable rate capabilities with a specific capacity of 603 and 160 mAh g−1 under typical conditions at 0.2 and 4 A g−1, respectively. This work may trigger new enthusiasm for engineering high‐performance SIB anode materials.
A Primer on Celtic Spirituality With Recommendations for Counseling Practice
Authors: Sink Christopher A. , Lemich Gregory
Published: April 2021

Research suggests that expressions of Celtic spirituality are widespread among the U.S. populace (e.g., Pew Research Center, 2014; Sullivan, 2016). Adherents vary in their commitment levels, ranging from informal cultural participants to followers of structured forms of the faith tradition (e.g., Celtic Christianity, Wicca, Paganism). The counseling literature provides scant information on this movement and germane approaches to support clients who identify with this spirituality. To respond to this deficiency, we address the topic by contextualizing Celtic spirituality from definitional, historical, and thematic perspectives. Next, we consider implications for spiritually sensitive counseling practice. We include a case study, exemplifying potential adaptive counseling processes and interventions.
Hot stuff in the bushes: Thermal imagers and the detection of burrows in vegetated sites
Authors: Cox Tarnya E. , Matthews Robert , Halverson Grant , Morris Stephen
Published: April 2021

Thermal imaging technology is a developing field in wildlife management. Most thermal imaging work in wildlife science has been limited to larger ungulates and surface‐dwelling mammals. Little work has been undertaken on the use of thermal imagers to detect fossorial animals and/or their burrows. Survey methods such as white‐light spotlighting can fail to detect the presence of burrows (and therefore the animals within), particularly in areas where vegetation obscures burrows. Thermal imagers offer an opportunity to detect the radiant heat from these burrows, and therefore the presence of the animal, particularly in vegetated areas. Thermal imaging technology has become increasingly available through the provision of smaller, more cost‐effective units. Their integration with drone technology provides opportunities for researchers and land managers to utilize this technology in their research/management practices.

We investigated the ability of both consumer (AUD$65,000) mounted on drones to detect rabbit burrows (warrens) and entrances in the landscape as compared to visual assessment.

Thermal imagery and visual inspection detected active rabbit warrens when vegetation was scarce. The presence of vegetation was a significant factor in detecting entrances (p < .001, α = 0.05). The consumer imager did not detect as many warren entrances as either the professional imager or visual inspection (p = .009, α = 0.05). Active warren entrances obscured by vegetation could not be accurately identified on exported imagery from the consumer imager and several false‐positive detections occurred when reviewing this footage.

We suggest that the exportable frame rate (Hz) was the key factor in image quality and subsequent false‐positive detections. This feature should be considered when selecting imagers and suggest that a minimum export rate of 30 Hz is required. Thermal imagers are a useful additional tool to aid in identification of entrances for active warrens and professional imagers detected more warrens and entrances than either consumer imagers or visual inspection.
Aerobic C−H Hydroxylation by Copper Imine Complexes: The Clip‐and‐Cleave Concept – Versatility and Limits
Authors: Specht Pascal , Petrillo Alexander , Becker Jonathan , Schindler Siegfried
Published: April 2021

The intramolecular ligand hydroxylation of a series of copper(I) imine complexes during their reaction with dioxygen had been systematically studied. The so‐called clip‐and‐cleave concept offers a facile way to oxygenate aldehydes or ketones. A copper(I) complex for example, with an imine ligand derived from an ethylenediamine derivative and cyclohexanone was oxidized. Decomposing the complex after the reaction with hydrochloric acid showed a 50 % conversion of the cyclohexanone to 2‐hydroxycylohexanone. Depending on the ligand system, three different reaction pathways have been identified that can cause hydroxylation reactions. While the radical based mechanisms are more difficult to identify, the reactions that go through a copper bis(μ‐oxido) complex as active species can be analyzed by low temperature stopped‐flow techniques. In an ideal case the formation and decomposition of this reactive intermediate can be spectroscopically observed. It was shown that this depends strongly on the ligand system: steric effects, chelate ring size and coordination number play an important role for the mechanism and the outcome of the reaction.
New π‐Extended 1,1′‐Disubstituted Ferrocenes with Thioate and Dithioate End Groups
Authors: Schmiel Sinem‐Fatma , Butenschön Holger
Published: April 2021

Extended π systems based on 1,1′‐aryl or (2‐arylethynyl) disubstitution at ferrocene with thioate or dithioate end groups are reported. In the context of molecular electronics, such end groups are possible alternative end groups for the attachment of molecular wires at gold surfaces. The respective thioates were successfully prepared in high yields via the respective carboxylic acid derivatives. Subsequent treatment with Lawesson's reagent led to the respective dithioates. However, this did not work in the presence of triple bonds, in these cases, product mixtures were formed. On the basis of literature evidence with Woollin's reagent, the selenium analog of Lawesson's reagent, one product was tentatively characterized as a double cyclization product of two triple bonds and two molecules of Lawesson's reagent. Preliminary experiments towards the formation of gold complexes by reaction with a Johnphos gold(I) salt are included.
Synthesis of Alkyl Fluorides by Silver‐Catalyzed Radical Decarboxylative Fluorination of Cesium Oxalates
Authors: Vincent Émilie , Brioche Julien
Published: April 2021

A combination of silver nitrate (AgNO3) catalyst and Selectfluor® was found to perform radical deoxyfluorination of cesium oxalates derived from corresponding alcohols. The reaction tolerates a wide range of functional groups and provides preferentially access to tertiary alkyl fluorides.
Behind the makeup: The effects of cosmetics on women's self‐objectification, and their objectification by others
Authors: Kellie Dax J. , Blake Khandis R. , Brooks Robert C.
Published: April 2021

Does wearing makeup benefit women by changing how they perceive themselves, and are the perceptions that others make of makeup wearers positive, or negative? In two pre‐registered experiments, we investigated the effects of makeup on women's self‐perceived traits, and others’ objectifying perceptions of them. In Experiment 1, 229 women imagined one of four scenarios (e.g., a romantic date). Half applied makeup for that scenario before rating their self‐perceived agency, humanness, romantic competitiveness towards other women and reactions to partner jealousy. Results showed little evidence that applying makeup affected women's self‐perceived traits. In Experiment 2, 844 participants rated images of women's faces from Experiment 1 on their mental capacity and moral status. Women wearing more makeup were attributed less mental capacity and moral status, with attributions mediated by perceptions that heavier makeup‐wearers have more sex and are more physically attractive. Findings suggest that although women experience cultural pressure to wear makeup, negative stereotypes of makeup‐wearers may lead to detrimental perceptions of women.
Facile Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide‐octahedral Mn3O4 Nanocomposites as a Platform for the Electrochemical Determination of Metronidazole and Sulfamonomethoxine
Authors: Xia Ya‐Mu , Ou Xiang , Zhao Yan , Xia Meng , Chen Dong , Gao Wei‐Wei
Published: April 2021

A facile synthesis strategy of reduced graphene oxide (RGO)‐octahedral Mn3O4 (oct‐Mn3O4) nanocomposites using in situ one‐pot hydrothermal reaction was reported. The RGO‐oct‐Mn3O4 nanocomposites were drop‐casted onto the surface of glassy carbon electrode (GCE) to obtain RGO‐oct‐Mn3O4/GCE. DPV results revealed that the performance of RGO‐oct‐Mn3O4/GCE towards metronidazole displayed a linear ranging from 0.1 to 9.5 μM with a detection limit of 0.037 μM. For sulfamonomethoxine, it exhibited a linear ranging from 1 to 95 μM with a detection limit of 0.27 μM. Moreover, the proposed sensor had good anti‐interference capability, high stability, satisfactory reproducibility, and was successfully applied in real samples.
Electrochemical Aptasensor for Zearalenone Based on DNA Assembly and Exonuclease III as Amplification Strategy
Authors: Wei Min , Xin Lingkun , Jin Huali , Huang Yawei , Liu Yong
Published: April 2021

A sensitively electrochemical aptasensor was developed to detect zearalenone, utilizing DNA assembly based on hybridization chain reaction to amplify the signal current and exonuclease III to reduce the background current. The linear range 5.0×10−5 ng/mL‐50 ng/mL, and the limit of detection is 0.013 pg/mL. The fabricated aptasensor showed the high specificity toward aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), fumonisin B1 (FB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA), good repeatability and reproducibility. In addition, the average recoveries of spiked corn and beer samples were in the range of 89 % to 102 %. The established method is of great significance in the field of food safety detection.
Facile Cyclic Voltammetric‐Induced Trimetallic Oxides with Shear‐Wall Structure Exhibiting Advanced Performance in an Asymmetric Pseudocapacitor
Authors: Gui Yang , Li Pengcheng , Chen Junsong , Fan Baoan , Blackwood Daniel John
Published: April 2021

Recently, a multicomponent system in the electrochemical energy‐storage field exhibits advantages of both electrochemical activity and electronic conductivity due to its synergistic effects. Herein, a trimetallic oxide thin film of Ni−Mn−Fe is obtained through a facile cyclic voltammetric electrodeposition method. The obtained thin film is grown vertically on Ni substrate to form a unique nanosheet morphology with shear‐wall structure. This less crystalline structure is beneficial for the observed faster kinetics due to the rational transport channels, avoiding sluggish charge diffusion. This trioxide thin film displays a maximum capacitance of 3950 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, with 1250 F g−1 being obtained at a higher current density of 25 A g−1 and maintaining a capacitance of 865 F g−1 after 10 000 cycles. In addition, by paring this film as a cathode with activated carbon, it delivers a considerable energy density of 194.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 0.75 kW kg−1 and still outputs an energy density of 33.2 Wh kg−1 at its highest power density of 19 kW kg−1. When applied to a practical condition, the cell lights up three red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs).
Drag variations, tidal asymmetry and tidal range changes in a mangrove creek system
Authors: Horstman Erik M. , Bryan Karin R. , Mullarney Julia C.
Published: April 2021

Aboveground root structures enhance drag on tidal currents in intertidal mangrove forests, whereas the creeks dissecting such forests provide low‐resistance conduits for tidal flows. Here, observations from an established mangrove forest in the Whitianga Estuary, Aotearoa New Zealand, are used to investigate the variability of the drag experienced by tidal flows in a mangrove creek system and subsequent effects on tidal asymmetries and ranges.

Tidal flow speed maxima in the creek occurred at overbank water levels during the sheet flow stage on rising tides, but at water levels below the creek bank (the creek flow stage) on falling tides. Inferred bulk drag coefficients for the creek were greater during the sheet flow than the creek flow stage, and were linearly correlated with the bulk drag coefficients at stations in the adjacent forest. Although falling tides, associated with larger bulk drag coefficients, had an increasingly longer duration than rising tides towards the back of the forest, we observed ebb‐dominant flow speed asymmetry that declined inland in the creek. Conversely, flow speeds within the forest were consistently flood‐dominant, in accordance with smaller bulk drag coefficients during rising tides. Along the full length of the mangrove system, high‐water levels were lowered by up to 12 cm/km within the creek and 36 cm/km within the mangrove forest.

Creek bed roughness associated with bulk drag coefficients observed in deeper parts of the creek was much greater than the hydraulic roughness of the sediment. For accurate simulations of landscape‐scale feedbacks between the creek and mangrove forest, incorporating both direct and indirect contributions of the vegetated forest platform to creek bed roughness is essential. These findings show that the interaction between creek flow and sheet flow in a mangrove creek system is a key driver of tidal asymmetries as well as the attenuation of high‐water conditions.
Impact of increased temperature on spring wheat yield in northern China
Authors: Ye Jun , Gao Zhen , Wu Xiaohua , Lu Zhanyuan , Li Cundong , Wang Xiaobing , Chen Liyu , Cui Guohui , Yu Meiling , Yan Guijun , Liu Hui , Zhang Haibin , Wang Zhanxian , Shi Xuefen , Li Yuanqing
Published: April 2021

Global warming has been reported to cause reductions in crop yields. However, it was suggested that warming temperature might benefit crop productivity in some cool areas at high latitude. In this study, we conducted a 17‐year field experiment (2002–2018) on spring wheat in Inner Mongolia. Temperature changes during each growth stage of spring wheat were investigated. Responses of spring wheat yield to temperature changes during the specific growing stages were evaluated. Average annual maximum temperature (Tmax) and minimum temperature (Tmin) significantly increased over the past 17 years. However, Tmax did not show obvious increase trend during spring wheat growing seasons (p = 0.0672). Furthermore, Tmax also had no distinct change before or after anthesis. Tmin significantly increased during the whole growing season, as well as in pre‐ and post‐anthesis stages. Correlation analysis indicated that Tmax in the entire growing season and post‐anthesis did not affect spring wheat yield, but high Tmax during pre‐anthesis can improve grain yield. The Tmin during the life cycle and pre‐anthesis both had positive relationship with grain yield. Moreover, elevated temperature from seedling to stem elongation can benefit tiller formation and thus increasing spike number, which contributed to the significant yield increase (p = 0.0093). Overall, climate warming affect spring wheat yield in cool area, and increasing temperature that was below the optimum temperature can benefit wheat productivity.
Sealing of fractures in a representative CO2 reservoir caprock by migration of fines
Authors: Rod Kenton A. , Cantrell Kirk J. , Varga Tamas , Battu Anil K. , Brown Christopher F.
Published: April 2021

The impact of fines migration on fracture transmissivity reduction was investigated by injecting a brine solution containing a suspension of 0.1 wt.% kaolinite particles with a mean particle size distribution of 9.6 μm through fractured shale core samples. The fractures had apertures estimated to be approximately 100 μm. A mass balance approach was used to determine the quantity of kaolinite that was deposited within the fractures (influent – effluent = amount deposited in fractures). Large fractions (44–90%) of the suspended kaolinite pumped through the fractures were deposited within the fractures. Based on fracture volumes estimated with X‐ray computed tomography, it was determined that approximately 10 to 17% of the fracture volume was filled with kaolinite at the point when flow was completely restricted. These results indicate that 100 μm fractures in CO2 reservoir caprocks could be sealed within hours if the brines passing through the fractures contain a proportional volume of particulates to the tests performed in this laboratory study. © 2021 Battelle Memorial Institute. Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The protective effects of azilsartan against oscillatory shear stress‐induced endothelial dysfunction and inflammation are mediated by KLF6
Authors: Wei Guoqian , Zhu Dayong , Sun Yongtao , Zhang Lan , Liu Xian , Li Ming , Gu Jinxia
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose

Atherosclerosis is a common cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality. It is reported to be related to oscillatory shear stress (OSS)‐induced endothelial dysfunction and excessive production of inflammatory factors. Azilsartan, a specific antagonist of the angiotensin II receptor, has been approved for the management of hypertensive subjects with diabetes mellitus type II (DMII). The present study will investigate the effects of azilsartan against OSS‐induced endothelial dysfunction and inflammation, as well as the underlying mechanism.

Materials and Methods

Cell viability was detected using an MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were used to determine the expression levels of IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, VCAM‐1, and ICAM‐1 in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured using 2ʹ‐7ʹdichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH‐DA) staining, and the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) was evaluated using a commercial kit. The adhesion of THP‐1 monocytes to HAECs was evaluated using calcein‐AM staining. The expression level of KLF6 was determined using qRT‐PCR and Western blot analysis.

Results

According to the result of the MTT assay, 5 and 10 μM azilsartan were considered as the optimized concentrations applied in the present study. The elevated production of IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β, increased levels of ROS, decreased levels of reduced GSH, upregulated VCAM‐1, ICAM‐1, and E‐selectin, and the aggravated adhesion of THP‐1 cells to HAECs induced by OSS were all reversed by the introduction of azilsartan. The downregulation of KLF6 induced by OSS was significantly reversed by azilsartan. By knocking down the expression of KLF6, the suppressed adhesion of THP‐1 cells to the HAECs, and the downregulation of VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 induced by azilsartan in OSS‐stimulated HAECs were greatly reversed.

Conclusion

The protective effects of azilsartan against OSS‐induced endothelial dysfunction and inflammation might be mediated by KLF6.
KMT2D promotes proliferation of gastric cancer cells: evidence from ctDNA sequencing
Authors: Li Qiaolian , Wu Riping , Wu Fan , Chen Qiang
Published: April 2021

Background

ctDNA sequencing could be used for early cancer screening, prognosis prediction, and medication guidance. However, data of its application in gastric cancer are still lacking. In this study, using ctDNA sequencing, we aimed to screen the mutant genes closely associated with gastric cancer and to explore the impact of these genes on gastric cancer development.

Methods

ctDNA for high‐throughput sequencing was obtained from gastric cancer patients, and the high‐frequency mutant gene KMT2D was identified. Immunohistochemical examination was conducted to assess the expression of KMT2D in gastric cancer tissues. KMT2D knockdown was performed to establish the stably transfected gastric cancer cells. Then, CCK8, plate clone formation assay, and Transwell assay were conducted, and a subcutaneous tumor‐bearing model was induced in nude mice to investigate the changes in cell proliferation and invasion capability. Transcriptome sequencing was also performed to investigate the differences in cellular gene expression.

Results

Detection of ctDNA found 113 gastric cancer‐related mutations, 11 of which are the top 20 high‐frequency mutations of gastric cancer recorded by COSMIC (Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer, COSMIC). They are TP53, ARID1A, CDH1, PIK3CA, KMT2C, KMT2D, APC, SPEN, CTNNB1, SETBP1, and KMT2A. The gene closely related to the clinical characteristics of the patient is KMT2D. The high‐frequency mutant gene KMT2D was identified in gastric cancer tissues. The positive rate of KMT2D expression in cancer tissues was 74.3%, which was higher than that in para‐carcinoma tissues (56.8%). The knockdown of KMT2D inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and tumor formation capacity of the gastric cancer cells, causing differences in the gene expression profiles, and the expression of different functional gene clusters was up‐ or downregulated.

Conclusion

The findings of this study revealed that KMT2D could be an oncogene capable of promoting gastric cancer proliferation.