bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Biology Toolbox to Visualize Protein Aggregation in Live Cells
Authors: Shen Di , Bai Yulong , Liu Yu
Published: October 2021

Protein misfolding and aggregation is a complex biochemical process and has been associated with numerous human degenerative diseases. Developing novel chemical and biological tools and approaches to visualize aggregated proteins in live cells is in high demand for mechanistic studies, diagnostics, and therapeutics. In this review, we summarize the recent developments in the chemical biology toolbox applied to protein aggregation studies in live cells. These methods exploited fluorescent protein tags, fluorescent chemical tags, and small‐molecule probes to visualize the protein‐aggregation process, detect proteome stresses, and quantify the protein homeostasis network capacity. Inspired by these seminal works, we have generalized design principles for the development of new detection methods and probes in the future that will illuminate this important biological process.
Identifying and addressing mental health self‐stigma
Authors: Sheehan Kate
Published: October 2021

The stigmatization of mental health disorders is a major barrier to help‐seeking and can cause significant distress. The majority of discourse about mental health stigma in research and media focuses on public stigma; however, self‐stigma also has a significant impact on individuals with mental health concerns. Public stigma consists of external sources like the general public holding negative beliefs about and attitudes towards individuals with mental health problems.
Suicide attempt using zinc phosphide rodenticide: A case report and literature review
Authors: Nekoukar Zahra , Moghimi Minoo , Rasouli Kimia , Hoseini Aref , Zakariaei Zakaria , Tabaripour Rabeeh , Fakhar Mahdi , Banimostafavi Elham Sadat
Published: October 2021

The patients with a history of intentional or unintentional consumption of rodenticide compounds, especially ZnP, it is necessary to assess ABG and abdominal radiography.
ZIF‐67 Derived Co/NC Nanoparticles Enable Catalytic Leuckart‐type Reductive Amination of Bio‐based Carbonyls to N‐Formyl Compounds
Authors: Li Chuanhui , Meng Ye , Yang Song , Li Hu
Published: October 2021

It is of great significance to develop non‐precious metal catalysts with excellent catalytic activity, stability, and acid resistance for biomass valorization. Herein, catalytic amination of biomass carbonyl compounds was achieved via a Leuckart‐type reaction over Co nanoparticles (NPs) embedded N‐doped carbon catalyst, which was prepared by thermolysis of ZIF‐67 precursor at different temperatures in the N2 atmosphere. The Co/NC‐800 catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activity and recyclability in furfural reductive amination to mono‐substituted formamide, which was attributed to the synergistic catalytic action of Co NPs and nitrogen base sites of the catalyst. The reductive amination mechanisms were elucidated by theoretical calculations, and showed that the initial formation of C−N bond was derived from the condensation of furfural and formamide, followed by dehydration to form C=N double bond, which was then reduced by hydrogen species Co−H− and NH+. The developed catalytic system was applicable to different carbonyls for the synthesis of corresponding N‐formyl compounds with up to 99 % yield.
Chiral Bipyridine Ligand with Flexible Molecular Recognition Site: Development and Application to Copper‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Borylation of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Tsutsumi Ryosuke , Taguchi Rika , Yamanaka Masahiro
Published: October 2021

A novel chiral bipyridine ligand bearing a flexible side chain with a molecular recognition site enables precise stereocontrol through the cooperative action of metal center and hydrogen bonds. This new chiral ligand was applied to the copper‐catalyzed asymmetric borylation of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds. The reaction afforded the corresponding borylated products in good yields with high enantioselectivities. Preliminary studies of the functional group‐selective transformation revealed that the newly designed chiral bipyridine ligand has the potential to control chemo‐ and site selectivity in addition to stereoselectivity.
Structure and Biosynthesis of Myxofacyclines: Unique Myxobacterial Polyketides Featuring Varing and Rare Heterocycles[]**
Authors: Popoff Alexander , Hug Joachim J. , Walesch Sebastian , Garcia Ronald , Keller Lena , Müller Rolf
Published: October 2021

A metabolome‐guided screening approach in the novel myxobacterium Corallococcus sp. MCy9072 resulted in the isolation of the unprecedented natural product myxofacycline A, which features a rare isoxazole substructure. Identification and genomic investigation of additional producers alongside targeted gene inactivation experiments and heterologous expression of the corresponding biosynthetic gene cluster in the host Myxococcus xanthus DK1622 confirmed a noncanonical megaenzyme complex as the biosynthetic origin of myxofacycline A. Induced expression of the respective genes led to significantly increased production titers enabling the identification of six further members of the myxofacycline natural product family. Whereas myxofacyclines A–D display an isoxazole substructure, intriguingly myxofacyclines E and F were found to contain 4‐pyrimidinole, a heterocycle unprecedented in natural products. Lastly, myxofacycline G features another rare 1,2‐dihydropyrol‐3‐one moiety. In addition to a full structure elucidation, we report the underlying biosynthetic machinery and present a rationale for the formation of all myxofacyclines. Unexpectedly, an extraordinary polyketide synthase‐nonribosomal peptide synthetase hybrid was found to produce all three types of heterocycle in these natural products.
Alkyne Aminopalladation/Heck and Suzuki Cascades: An Approach to Tetrasubstituted Enamines
Authors: Geffers Finn J. , Kurth Florens R. , Jones Peter G. , Werz Daniel B.
Published: October 2021

Alkyne aminopalladation reactions starting from tosylamides are reported. The emerging vinylic Pd species are converted either in an intramolecular Heck reaction with olefinic units or in an intermolecular Suzuki reaction by using boronic acids exhibiting broad functional group tolerance. Tetra(hetero)substituted tosylated enamines are obtained in a simple one‐pot process.
80 Millionen Jahre Überleben in der Wüste
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: October 2021

In der Namibwüste im Südwesten Afrikas gedeiht eine extrem ungewöhnliche und widerstandsfähige Pflanzenart, Welwitschia mirabilis (Abbildung 1). Eine Genomstudie hat nun einige der molekularen Grundlagen ihrer außerordentlichen Resistenz aufgeklärt.
Focus on a teacher training workshop: lowcost experiments on different fuel cell types for use in chemistry classes
Authors: Grandrath Rebecca , Bohrmann‐Linde Claudia
Published: October 2021

In dem Beitrag wird eine erprobte Lehrkräftefortbildung im Workshop‐Format zu verschiedenen Brennstoffzelltypen für den Einsatz im Chemieunterricht vorgestellt. Neben der Charakterisierung anhand von Kerngedanken zur Planung werden insbesondere die strukturbildenden Low‐Cost‐Experimente aufgezeigt, die in unserem Arbeitskreis (weiter‐)entwickelt worden sind. Da sämtliche Begleitmaterialien kostenfrei zum Download bereitstehen, besteht das Angebot, die Inhalte im Distanzlernen zu erarbeiten und Rückfragen via E‐Mail zu stellen.
Dispositional hope as a potential outcome parameter among patients with advanced malignancy: An analysis of the ENABLE database
Authors: Corn Benjamin W. , Feldman David B. , Hull Jay G. , O’Rourke Mark A. , Bakitas Marie A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Hopefulness, whether inherently present (dispositional hope) or augmented (by enhancement techniques), may affect outcomes. This study was performed to determine the association of dispositional hope with survival among patients diagnosed with advanced cancer.

Methods

Data from ENABLE (Educate, Nurture, Advise, Before Life Ends), a palliative care intervention, were reanalyzed to determine the association of higher dispositional hope and patient survival. This was a secondary analysis of data combined from the ENABLE II and ENABLE III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with respect to dispositional hope and survival. A dispositional hope index was created from 3 hope items from 2 validated baseline questionnaires. Dispositional hope and survival data were collected during the 2 RCTs. In ENABLE II, participants were randomly assigned to the ENABLE intervention or to usual care. In ENABLE III, participants were randomly assigned to receive the intervention immediately or 12 weeks after enrollment.

Results

In all, 529 persons were included in Cox proportional hazards regression analyses to model the effects of dispositional hope on survival. An initial analysis without covariates yielded a significant effect of hope (Wald statistic, 8.649; hazard ratio, 0.941; confidence interval, 0.904‐0.980;P= .003), such that higher dispositional hope was associated with longer survival. In a subsequent analysis that included all covariates, the effect of dispositional hope approached statistical significance (Wald statistic, 2.96; hazard ratio, 0.933; confidence interval, 0.863‐1.010;P= .085).

Conclusions

Higher levels of dispositional hope were associated with longer survival in patients with advanced cancer. Prospective trials are needed to determine the effects of dispositional and augmented hope on the outcomes of patients with advanced cancer.
The impact of our fight
Authors: Palacios M. Sebastián Andrés , Palacios M. María Gabriela , Palacios B. Rafael Francisco
Published: October 2021

The association of parents of children and adolescents with cancer (APNACC), is a nongovernmental organization law institution, with legal status, nonprofit and social aid, whose mission, vision and objectives is to ensure the rights of the children and adolescents so that they are not violated, in addition to guiding and directing parents who enter this world of childhood and adolescent cancer, because we believe that addressing in time saves lives and optimizes resources. Through this article, it is intended to describe the impact that APNACC has had on this cause, the fight against childhood and adolescent cancer; from achieving a state law for free care for catastrophic and orphan or rare diseases, to obtaining approval of a basic list of medications.
A systematic review of big data in energy analytics using energy computing techniques
Authors: Dhanalakshmi J. , Ayyanathan N.
Published: October 2021

In big data and machine learning, energy analytics has shown rapid development in the past decade. With this development in energy analytics, the energy data has exponentially increased well in different areas and domains. Energy computing techniques have been used in various domains, particularly in energy data to handle the data analysis process. This paper focuses on explaining the concept and evolution of various research questions formulation, data extraction, quality valuation, search strategy, study selection and reporting the results in energy‐oriented domains to evaluate energy‐computing techniques. The thermal power plant, power system and smart grid datasets were highly used out of plenty of other datasets discussed and the ANN algorithm is most commonly used to classify the dataset. Different sets of algorithms are used for data analysis, classification, converting structured data to unstructured data, regression, visualization, and forecasting. Journal publications from the year 2012 to 2020 have reviewed and adopted a systematic approach to identify the findings of all relevant research methodologies in the defined research domain.
Stereoregular Polymerization of Acyclic Terpenes
Authors: Lamparelli David Hermann , Winnacker Malte , Capacchione Carmine
Published: October 2021

The growing environmental pollution and the expected depleting of fossil resources have sparked interest in recent years for polymers obtained from monomers originating from renewable sources. Furthermore, nature can provide a variety of building blocks with special structural features (e. g. side groups or stereo‐elements) that cannot be obtained so easily via fossil‐based pathways. In this context, terpenes are widespread natural compounds coming from non‐food crops, present in a large variety of structures, and ready to use as monomers with or without further modifications. The present review aims to provide an overview of how chemists can stereospecifically polymerize terpenes, particularly the acyclic ones like myrcene, ocimene, and farnesene, using different metal catalyst systems in coordination‐insertion polymerization. Attention is also paid to their copolymers, which have recently been disclosed, and to the possible applications of these bio‐based materials in various industrial sectors such as in the field of elastomers. © 2021 The Authors. ChemPlusChem published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non‐Commercial License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
A Single Catalyst for Promoting Reverse Processes: Synthesis and Chemical Degradation of Polylactide
Authors: Santulli Federica , Lamberti Marina , Mazzeo Mina
Published: October 2021

A simple zinc catalyst showing high activity for both the synthesis of polylactide, a biodegradable polymer produced from renewable feedstock, and its degradation was described. In the ring‐opening polymerization of lactides, the zinc catalyst showed one of the highest activities reported in the literature for reactions carried out in solution at room temperature. This excellent performance was preserved even when the process was performed under industrial conditions: at high temperature, in the absence of solvent, and by using a low catalyst loading with unpurified monomers. The same complex revealed high efficiency also in depolymerization of polylactide by alcoholysis, a process that occurred efficiently at room temperature and in the absence of solvent, conditions that reduce costs and guarantee low environmental impact.
How much is enough? Sampling intensity influences estimates of reproductive variance in an introduced population
Authors: McLennan Elspeth A. , Belov Katherine , Hogg Carolyn J. , Grueber Catherine E.
Published: October 2021

Conservation introductions to islands and fenced enclosures are increasing as in situ mitigations fail to keep pace with population declines. Few studies consider the potential loss of genetic diversity and increased inbreeding if released individuals breed disproportionately. As funding is limited and post‐release monitoring expensive for conservation programs, understanding how sampling effort influences estimates of reproductive variance is useful. To investigate this relationship, we used a well‐studied population of Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) introduced to Maria Island, Tasmania, Australia. Pedigree reconstruction based on molecular data revealed high variance in number of offspring per breeder and high proportions of unsuccessful individuals. Computational subsampling of 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of observed offspring resulted in inaccurate estimates of reproductive variance compared to the pedigree reconstructed with all sampled individuals. With decreased sampling effort, the proportion of inferred unsuccessful individuals was overestimated and the variance in number of offspring per breeder was underestimated. To accurately estimate reproductive variance, we recommend sampling as many individuals as logistically possible during the early stages of population establishment. Further, we recommend careful selection of colonizing individuals as they may be disproportionately represented in subsequent generations. Within the conservation management context, our results highlight important considerations for sample collection and post‐release monitoring during population establishment.
Post‐restoration grassland management overrides the effects of restoration methods in propagule‐rich landscapes
Authors: Tölgyesi Csaba , Vadász Csaba , Kun Róbert , Csathó András István , Bátori Zoltán , Hábenczyus Alida , Erdős László , Török Péter
Published: October 2021

Grassland restoration is gaining momentum worldwide to tackle the loss of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services. Restoration methods and their effects on ecological community reassembly have been extensively studied across various grassland types, while the importance of post‐restoration management has so far received less attention. Grassland management is an important surrogate for natural disturbances, with which most ancient grasslands have coevolved. Thus, without the reintroduction of management‐related disturbance, restoration targets are unlikely to be achieved in restored grasslands. In this study, we aimed to explore how 20 yr of management by mowing once a year or light cattle grazing affects restoration success in Palearctic meadow‐steppe grasslands restored by either sowing native grasses (sown sites), applying Medicago sativa as a nurse plant (Medicago sites), or allowing spontaneous succession (spontaneous sites). We found that, following mowing, sown sites maintained long‐lasting establishment limitation, while Medicago sites experienced a delay in succession. These limitations resulted in low total and target species richness, low functional redundancy, and distinct species and functional composition compared to reference data from ancient grasslands. Spontaneous sites that were mowed reached a more advanced successional stage, although they did not reach reference levels regarding most vegetation descriptors. Sown and Medicago sites that were grazed had higher total and target species richness than those that were mowed, and showed restoration success similar to that of spontaneous sites, on which grazing had only moderate further positive effects. Grazed sites, irrespective of the restoration method, were uniformly species rich, functionally diverse, and functionally redundant, and thus became important biodiverse habitats with considerable resilience. We conclude that an optimally chosen post‐restoration management may have an impact on long‐term community reassembly comparable to the choice of restoration method. Restoration planners may, therefore, need to put more emphasis on future management than on the initial restoration method. However, our findings also imply that if local constraints, such as potentially high invasive propagule pressure, necessitate the application of restoration methods that could also hinder the establishment of target species, the long‐term recovery of the grassland can still be ensured by wisely chosen post‐restoration management.
Rapid enhancement of multiple ecosystem services following the restoration of a coastal foundation species
Authors: Beheshti Kathryn M. , Williams Susan L. , Boyer Katharyn E. , Endris Charlie , Clemons Annakate , Grimes Tracy , Wasson Kerstin , Hughes Brent B.
Published: October 2021

The global decline of marine foundation species (kelp forests, mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses) has contributed to the degradation of the coastal zone and threatens the loss of critical ecosystem services and functions. Restoration of marine foundation species has had variable success, especially for seagrasses, where a majority of restoration efforts have failed. While most seagrass restorations track structural attributes over time, rarely do restorations assess the suite of ecological functions that may be affected by restoration. Here we report on the results of two small‐scale experimental seagrass restoration efforts in a central California estuary where we transplanted 117 0.25‐m2 plots (2,340 shoots) of the seagrass species Zostera marina. We quantified restoration success relative to persistent reference beds, and in comparison to unrestored, unvegetated areas. Within three years, our restored plots expanded ~8,500%, from a total initial area of 29 to 2,513 m2. The restored beds rapidly began to resemble the reference beds in (1) seagrass structural attributes (canopy height, shoot density, biomass), (2) ecological functions (macrofaunal species richness and abundance, epifaunal species richness, nursery function), and (3) biogeochemical functions (modulation of water quality). We also developed a multifunctionality index to assess cumulative functional performance, which revealed restored plots are intermediate between reference and unvegetated habitats, illustrating how rapidly multiple functions recovered over a short time period. Our comprehensive study is one of few published studies to quantify how seagrass restoration can enhance both biological and biogeochemical functions. Our study serves as a model for quantifying ecosystem services associated with the restoration of a foundation species and demonstrates the potential for rapid functional recovery that can be achieved through targeted restoration of fast‐growing foundation species under suitable conditions.
Variation in resting strategies across trophic levels and habitats in mammals
Authors: Shukla Ishana , Kilpatrick A. Marm , Beltran Roxanne S.
Published: October 2021

Mammals must carefully balance rest with other behaviors that influence fitness (e.g., foraging, finding a mate) while minimizing predation risk. However, factors influencing resting strategies and the degree to which resting strategies are driven by the activities of predators and/or prey remain largely unknown. Our goal was to examine how mammalian resting strategies varied with trophic level, body mass, and habitat. We reviewed findings from 127 publications and classified the resting strategies of terrestrial and aquatic mammalian species into three categories: social (e.g., resting in groups), temporal (e.g., resting during the day), or spatial (e.g., resting in burrows). Temporal strategies were most common (54% of cases), but the prevalence of strategies varied with body mass and among trophic levels. Specifically, lower trophic levels and smaller species such as rodents and lagomorphs used more spatial and social resting strategies, whereas top predators and larger species used mostly temporal resting strategies. Resting strategies also varied among habitat types (e.g., rainforest vs. grassland), but this was primarily because closely related species shared both habitats and resting strategies. Human presence also affected resting strategies at all trophic levels but most strongly influenced top predators through shifts in rest timing. Human‐induced behavioral changes in rest patterns cascade to modify behaviors across multiple trophic levels. These findings advance our fundamental understanding of natural history and ecology in wild animals and provide a roadmap for future comparative studies.
Association of iron deficiency with incident cardiovascular diseases and mortality in the general population
Authors: Schrage Benedikt , Rübsamen Nicole , Ojeda Francisco M. , Thorand Barbara , Peters Annette , Koenig Wolfgang , Söderberg Stefan , Söderberg Maja , Mathiesen Ellisiv B. , Njølstad Inger , Kee Frank , Linneberg Allan , Kuulasmaa Kari , Tarja Palosaari , Salomaa Veikko , Blankenberg Stefan , Zeller Tanja , Karakas Mahir
Published: October 2021

Aims

Although absolute (AID) and functional iron deficiency (FID) are known risk factors for patients with cardiovascular (CV) disease, their relevance for the general population is unknown. The aim was to assess the association between AID/FID with incident CV disease and mortality in the general population.

Methods and results

In 12 164 individuals from three European population‐based cohorts, AID was defined as ferritin < 100 μg/L or as ferritin < 30 μg/L (severe AID), and FID was defined as ferritin < 100 μg/L or ferritin 100–299 μg/L and transferrin saturation < 20%. The association between iron deficiency and incident coronary heart disease (CHD), CV mortality, and all‐cause mortality was evaluated by Cox regression models. Population attributable fraction (PAF) was estimated. Median age was 59 (45–68) years; 45.2% were male. AID, severe AID, and FID were prevalent in 60.0%, 16.4%, and 64.3% of individuals. AID was associated with CHD [hazard ratio (HR) 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.39, P = 0.01], but not with mortality. Severe AID was associated with all‐cause mortality (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.12–1.46, P < 0.01), but not with CV mortality/CHD. FID was associated with CHD (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07–1.43, P < 0.01), CV mortality (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.03–1.54, P = 0.03), and all‐cause mortality (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01–1.24, P = 0.03). Overall, 5.4% of all deaths, 11.7% of all CV deaths, and 10.7% of CHD were attributable to FID.

Conclusions

In the general population, FID was highly prevalent, was associated with incident CHD, CV death, and all‐cause death, and had the highest PAF for these events, whereas AID was only associated with CHD and severe AID only with all‐cause mortality. This indicates that FID is a relevant risk factor for CV diseases in the general population.
Prognostic impact of follow‐up serum albumin after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Yoshioka Goro , Tanaka Atsushi , Nishihira Kensaku , Natsuaki Masahiro , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Watanabe Nozomi , Shibata Yoshisato , Node Koichi
Published: October 2021

Aims

Previous studies have suggested that low serum albumin (LSA) at admission for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with adverse in‐hospital outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether LSA in the remote phase after AMI is prognostic for long‐term outcomes.

Methods and results

This was a single‐centre, retrospective study of consecutive patients admitted for AMI from 2008 to 2016. Serum albumin concentrations were measured serially at admission and 1 year after discharge in Japanese patients. Occurrence of a composite of hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular death was the primary endpoint. The prognostic impact of remote LSA, defined as a serum albumin level < 3.8 g/dL at 1 year after discharge, was investigated with a multivariate‐adjusted Cox model. Among 1424 subjects analysed, 289 (20.3%) had LSA at admission, and 165 (11.6%) had LSA at 1 year after discharge. During follow‐up (median: 4.1 years), the primary endpoint occurred in 31/165 (18.8%) patients with remote LSA and 42/1259 (3.3%) patients without it [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 2.76; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.32 to 5.72; P = 0.007]. The all‐cause death rate was 29.7% (49/165) in patients with remote LSA and 4.3% (54/1259) in patients without it (aHR, 4.02; 95% CI, 2.36 to 6.87; P < 0.001). The prognostic impact of remote LSA was consistent across albumin status in the acute phase of AMI.

Conclusions

Regardless of albumin status in the acute phase of AMI, LSA in the remote phase after AMI was significantly associated with long‐term adverse outcomes.
Effects of an outpatient intervention comprising nurse‐led non‐invasive assessments, telemedicine support and remote cardiologists' decisions in patients with heart failure (AMULET study): a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Krzesiński Paweł , Jankowska Ewa A. , Siebert Janusz , Galas Agata , Piotrowicz Katarzyna , Stańczyk Adam , Siwołowski Paweł , Gutknecht Piotr , Chrom Paweł , Murawski Piotr , Walczak Andrzej , Szalewska Dominika , Banasiak Waldemar , Ponikowski Piotr , Gielerak Grzegorz
Published: October 2021

Aim

Prevention of heart failure (HF) hospitalisations and deaths constitutes a major therapeutic aim in patients with HF. The role of telemedicine in this context remains equivocal. We investigated whether an outpatient telecare based on nurse‐led non‐invasive assessments supporting remote therapeutic decisions (AMULET telecare) could improve clinical outcomes in patients after an episode of acute HF during 12‐month follow‐up.

Methods and results

In this prospective randomised controlled trial, patients with HF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤49%, after an episode of acute HF within the last 6 months, were randomly assigned to receive either an outpatient telecare based on nurse‐led non‐invasive assessments (n = 300) (AMULET model) or standard care (n = 305). The primary composite outcome of unplanned HF hospitalisation or cardiovascular death occurred in 51 (17.1%) patients in the telecare group and 73 (23.9%) patients in the standard care group up to 12 months after randomization [hazard ratio (HR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.99; P = 0.044]. The implementation of AMULET telecare, as compared to standard care, reduced the risk of first unplanned HF hospitalisation (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.42–0.91; P = 0.015) as well as the risk of total unplanned HF hospitalisations (HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.41–0.99; P = 0.044).There was no difference in cardiovascular mortality between the study groups (HR 1.03, 95% CI 0.54–1.67; P = 0.930).

Conclusions

AMULET telecare as compared to standard care significantly reduced the risk of HF hospitalisation or cardiovascular death during 12‐month follow‐up among patients with HF and LVEF ≤49% after an episode of acute HF.
Perfluorinated Dialkoxysilanediols Resisting Self‐Condensation
Authors: Feige Felix , Al‐Issa Jeen , Kögel Julius F. , Lork Enno , Rychagova Elena , Ketkov Sergey , Beckmann Jens
Published: October 2021

The reaction of sodium salts of perfluorinated tertiary alcohols R3COH with SiCl4provided the di‐substituted dichlorosilanes (R3CO)2SiCl2(1 a, R=CF3;1 b, R=C6F5), the hydrolysis of which produced the corresponding silanediols (R3CO)2Si(OH)2(2 a, R=CF3;2 b, R=C6F5). Unlike most other dialkoxysilanediols known in the literature,2 aand2 bare stable towards self‐condensation at ambient conditions. In a similar way, the related disiloxanes [(R3CO)2SiCl]2O (3 a, R=CF3) and [(R3CO)2Si(OH)]2O (4 a, R=CF3) were prepared.
Improved Hole Extraction Selectivity of Polymer Solar Cells by Combining PEDOT:PSS with WO3
Authors: Sokeng Djoumessi Aurelien , Alam Shahidul , Madalaimuthu Jose Prince , Anand Aman , Slowik Josef , Pflug Theo , Meitzner Rico , Roesch Roland , Gnecco Enrico , Horn Alexander , Schubert Ulrich S. , Hoppe Harald
Published: October 2021

As the device performance and stability of polymer solar cells strongly depend on the interfacial charge extraction layers, the hole transport layer (HTL) properties are crucial. Furthermore, unfavorable interactions with the electrode or the photoactive layer should be screened and prevented. Organic solar cells of conventional architecture by varying the HTL material and layer stack systematically between PEDOT:PSS and a sol–gel‐derived tungsten oxide (WO3) are investigated. The impact of various HTLs in the solar cells is investigated by optical and electrical characterization. Interestingly, a triple‐layer WO3/PEDOT:PSS/WO3 configuration results in the best device performance specifically compared with the use of pristine WO3 and pristine PEDOT:PSS hole extraction layers. The triple layer also shows an increased reproducibility in the lifetime, which, combined with the improvement in the efficiency, can be the keys for expectable revenue.
All‐Inorganic CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells: Recent Developments and Challenges
Authors: Ullah Saad , Wang Jiaming , Yang Peixin , Liu Linlin , Li Yuqiao , Yang Shi-E. , Xia Tianyu , Guo Haizhong , Chen Yongsheng
Published: October 2021

In the past decade, organic–inorganic halide perovskites (OIHPs) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have received gigantic research attention owing to their prompt development in power conversion efficiency (PCE) from the initial 3.8% for the first prototype in 2009 to the present state‐of‐the‐art value of 25.5%. However, due to the weak‐bonded organic components in the hybrid crystal structure, the intrinsic chemical instability of OIHPs persuaded by humidity, ultraviolet light, and heat remain a challenging issue for them to meet industrialization‐specific requirements. Parallel to the flourishing of OIHPs, the progress of inorganic cesium‐based metal halide PSCs (CsPbX3, X = I, Br, and mixed) is hastening with PCEs over 20%. Due to its excellent stability under thermal and high humidity conditions, CsPbI2Br is one of the most fascinating inorganic perovskites and a notable research hotspot in the field of perovskite photovoltaics (PV). Herein, recent developments of CsPbI2Br‐based PSCs including the optoelectronic properties, processing methods for preparing CsPbI2Br films, stability of devices, and efficiency improvements are reviewed and deliberated. Finally, cutting‐edge engineering approaches for optimizing the PV performance are discussed and new challenges and perspectives for future research in this field are recognized.
The effect of soaking in increasingly alkaline aqueous solutions on the spontaneous combustion characteristics of bituminous coal
Authors: Yuan Jie , Zhu Hongqing , Zhao Jinlong , Zhu Xiaoman , Wang Haoran
Published: October 2021

The spontaneous combustion characteristics of residual air‐dried coal change after soaking, which can pose a threat to coal mining safety. To study the effects of increasing alkalinity, pH values (7–11), on the spontaneous combustion characteristics of coal, we conducted a number of experiments using thermogravimetry (TG) and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). TG was used to investigate parameters including the ignition index , combustion characteristic index (), combustion intensity index (), and activation energy () to show any variations in oxidative exothermic characteristics of coal. The results showed that the values of and of the coal samples after alkaline treatment, increased with the increasing pH values. However, the values of and followed the opposite trend. To further explain the reason behind these variations, we investigated functional groups of coal using FTIR. These results indicated that the active functional groups, including oxygen‐containing functional groups, methyl and methylene groups, of the coal, increased after alkaline treatment, which showed microscopically that the coal was more active after soaking. These parameter variations together illustrate that the oxidation activity of the coal was enhanced after the alkaline treatment, and that it is more prone to spontaneous combustion.
Clinical experience with a new injectable hyaluronic acid designed to improve skin quality in a private clinic in Brazil: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Dal'Asta Coimbra Daniel
Published: October 2021

Background

Juvéderm Volite is a skin‐conditioning hyaluronic acid (HA) gel for intradermal injection that provides longer‐lasting effects with a lower concentration of hyaluronic acid. Few studies evaluating its use for aesthetic purposes are available.

Aim

To examine the use and safety of Juvéderm Volite in daily clinical practice.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of subjects treated with Juvéderm Volite for aesthetic purposes from May 2018 to October 2019 in Rio de Janeiro. Data were extracted from the attending physician's records obtained at each medical appointment. Subjects were assessed according to their age group and treatment characteristics, which include the use of cannulas vs needles and the effectiveness and safety of associated treatments in a single session. Need for subsequent treatment was stratified by touch‐up treatment (<3‐month period) and repeat treatment (≥3‐month period). Safety assessment was based on the report of nodule formation and late hypersensitivity in patients. Appropriate statistical tests were used for data analysis.

Results

One hundred and eight subjects were included in the study analysis. The total number of treatment sessions consisted of 159, with a mean follow‐up time of 300.3 days. Of the total 108 subjects, 8.4% required touch‐up treatment for optimum correction and repeat treatment occurred in 9.0%. No cases of adverse events were reported during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

This study has shown, based on clinical observation, that Juvéderm Volite is a useful tool to improve skin quality, requiring fewer and less frequent maintenance treatments. No serious adverse events were reported during the follow‐up period.
Modeling climate change effects on spatial distribution of wild Aegilops L. (Poaceae) toward food security management and biodiversity conservation in Iran
Authors: Hosseini Naser , Mehrabian Ahmadreza , Mostafavi Hossein
Published: October 2021

The demand for food resources is increasing quickly because human populations are growing; therefore, food security may become one of the largest human challenges of this century. Crop wild relatives (CWRs) are the most valuable plant genetic resources (PGR) for the conservation of genetic diversity in crops. However, climate change is an added pressure on biodiversity, particularly on this valuable group of plants. It is predicted that more than 50% of this group may be lost by 2055 as a result of the effects of climate change. Iran ranks high in the world in its conservation priorities for CWRs. This study investigates the impacts of climate change on Aegilops L. as important CWRs. MaxEnt was applied to predict the spatial distribution of seven Aegilops species under different climatic scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5) of 2050 and 2080. According to the findings, all species exhibited reduction or expansion responses under all of the above-mentioned climatic scenarios. However, the range change was negative for some species (i.e., Aegilops columnaris, Aegilops cylindrica, Aegilops speltoides, Aegilops tauschii [in all scenarios of 2050 and 2080], and Aegilops kotschyi [RCP 2.6 2050 and 2080]), and positive for others (i.e., Aegilops crassa, Aegilops triuncialis [in all scenarios of 2050 and 2080], and Aegilops kotschyi [RCP 8.5 2050 and 2080]). The results of this study emphasize the need for conservation plans for the country's genetic resources, including regular monitoring and assessment of ecological and demographic changes. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:697–708. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

This paper investigated the impacts of climate change on Aegilops spp.  as important crop wild relatives (CWRs) in order to establish protection strategies in the most important genetic resources of the country. MaxEnt was applied to predict the spatial distribution of seven Aegilops species under different climatic scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5) of 2050 and 2080. The range change was negative for some species and positive for others. This study emphasizes the need for conservation plans for the country's genetic resources, including regular monitoring and assessment of ecological and demographic changes.
Imiquimod induced vitiligo‐like lesions—A consequence of modified melanocyte function
Authors: Yu Haiyan , Cen Jianping , Lin Xiaoxia , Cheng Hao , Seifert Oliver
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Imiquimod plays an important role in the management of condyloma and premalignant lesions. Successively, an increase of hypopigmented lesions following imiquimod application has been reported. However, the mechanisms of imiquimod on melanocytes remain unclear. This study was designed to assess the effect of Imiquimod on the functions of melanocytes in vitro.

Methods

Primary cultured melanocytes were isolated from normal control skin tissue. After incubation with imiquimod for 48 h in vitro, cell viability was analyzed by cell counting kit‐8 assay. Apoptosis was detected using the Annexin V‐fluorescein‐5‐isothiocyanate flow cytometry assay. Melanin content and tyrosinase activity in melanocytes were measured by colorimetric method and the modified dopachrome method. The production of inflammatory cytokine interleukin 8 (IL‐8), IL‐6, and soluble ICAM‐1 (soluble Intercellular Adhesion Molecule‐1[sICAM‐1]) in melanocytes were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7), toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR9) protein, and autophagy‐related proteins microtubule‐associated protein 1A/1B‐light chain 3 (LC3‐II), p62, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), and Atg5 were assessed using western blot analysis.

Results

Imiquimod significantly inhibited the activity of tyrosinase activity and decreased melanin content in melanocytes and significantly increased apoptosis and IL‐6, IL‐8, and sICAM‐1 production in melanocytes. Moreover, the expression of TLR7 and TLR9 proteins were significantly increased, and the expression of mTOR, p62 protein were markedly decreased, but the expression of LC3II/I and Atg5 protein were significantly increased in melanocytes after incubating with imiquimod.

Conclusions

This study shows that imiquimod directly inhibits melanogenesis and increases melanocyte apoptosis rates. These effects combined with the upregulation of TLR7 and TLR9 together with increased autophagy activity and inflammatory cytokines production, might be the main reasons leading to hypopigmented lesions after imiquimod application.
A randomized controlled trial of the effect of ramosetron on postoperative restoration of bowel motility after gynecologic laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Kang Hee Yong , Kim Youngsoon , You Ann Hee , Kim Yeon Jin , Kim Mi Kyeong
Published: October 2021

Objective

To investigate the effect of ramosetron after gynecological laparoscopic surgery on the recovery of bowel function.

Methods

A prospective randomized controlled trial conducted at Kyung Hee University hospital, South Korea, from August 2016 to September 2017. Patients were randomized to receive either 10 mg dexamethasone before induction of anesthesia (control group C), followed by intravenous administration of patient‐controlled analgesia (IV‐PCA) or 2 ml normal saline before induction of anesthesia and 0.6 mg ramosetron (study group R) administered with IV‐PCA.

Results

A total of 88 patients were enrolled. Times to first flatus (group C 23.98 ± 6.31 vs. group R 27.14 ± 9.56 h; P = 0.148) and first defecation (group C 36.16 ± 16.04 vs. group R 43.41 ± 20.01 h; P = 0.138) showed no statistically significant differences. No significant differences were observed in the frequency of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and demand for additional analgesics. Multiple linear regression for analysis of factors affecting time to first flatus revealed no significant results.

Conclusion

Ramosetron did not delay bowel movement recovery after gynecologic laparoscopic surgery and was as effective as dexamethasone in regulating PONV. Ramosetron can be used with IV‐PCA without concerns about delay in recovery of bowel function.

ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT02849483.
The Emergent Properties of an Ethical Leadership When Aligned with the Systems Engineering Handbook and Code of Ethics
Authors: Fraga Anabel
Published: October 2021

It is not easy to define leadership and the characteristics a leader must have. Some authors prefer one or another skill, but definitions are diverse. Some sources try to indicate what it means and its implications. A holistic ethical leadership model cannot be defined circularly, but it must be understood, such as a praxis.

Leadership means more than its common definition; it means truth, ethics, empathy, and much more. In this case, it is of importance the definition of leadership, and in particular the ethical leadership. Also, the role of the leader is important, their education, their skills, and their influence.

The need for ethical leadership in systems engineering is essential to be highlighted. The Code of Ethics of INCOSE and the Handbook do not merge the concept of leadership and ethics. That is why it is vital to show the need for alignment among both documents in terms of ethical leadership. Also, an explicit reference to this concept is needed in both documents because leadership needs to be honest, and ethics is a role to provide it.

In this paper, we analyze the definitions found in the current INCOSE Code of Ethics and INCOSE Handbook regarding ethical leadership, its implications, and its application is explained and aligned to the ethical systems engineering idea. Also, examples of ethical behavior will be introduced to explain emergent properties. It will exemplify that applying ethical leadership will work in favor of the development of successful systems.
Does model complexity add value to asset allocation? Evidence from machine learning forecasting models
Authors: Kynigakis Iason , Panopoulou Ekaterini
Published: October 2021

This study evaluates the benefits of integrating return forecasts from a variety of machine learning and forecast combination methods into an out‐of‐sample asset allocation framework. The economic evaluation of the forecasts shows that model complexity translates to improved results in the majority of cases considered, with shrinkage methods and shallow neural networks generating the highest individual performance. Overall, an investor would consistently realize superior out‐of‐sample gains by incorporating forecast combinations of machine learning models in the portfolio formation process.
A Validated Risk Prediction Model for Bone Fragility in Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Verwaaijen Emma J. , Ma Jinhui , de Groot-Kruseman Hester A. , Pieters Rob , van der Sluis Inge M. , van Atteveld Jenneke E. , Halton Jacqueline , Fernandez Conrad V. , Hartman Annelies , de Jonge Robert , Lequin Maarten H. , te Winkel Mariël L. , Alos Nathalie , Atkinson Stephanie A. , Barr Ronald , Grant Ronald M. , Hay John , Huber Adam M. , Ho Josephine , Jaremko Jacob , Koujok Khaldoun , Lang Bianca , Matzinger Mary-Ann , Shenouda Nazih , Rauch Frank , Rodd Celia , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Pluijm Saskia M.F. , Ward Leanne M. ,   The DCOG-ALL9 and Canadian STOPP Consortia
Published: October 2021

Although bone fragility may already be present at diagnosis of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), routine performance of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in every child is not universally feasible. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a risk prediction model for low lumbar spine bone mineral density (LS BMD Z-score ≤ −2.0) at diagnosis, as an important indicator for fracture risk and further treatment-related BMD aggravation. Children with ALL (4–18 years), treated according to the Dutch Childhood Oncology Group protocol (DCOG-ALL9; model development; n = 249) and children from the Canadian Steroid-Associated Osteoporosis in the Pediatric Population cohort (STOPP; validation; n = 99) were included in this study. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to develop the prediction model and to confirm the association of low LS BMD at diagnosis with symptomatic fractures during and shortly after cessation of ALL treatment. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to assess model performance. The prediction model for low LS BMD at diagnosis using weight (β = −0.70) and age (β = −0.10) at diagnosis revealed an AUC of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.63–0.78) in DCOG-ALL9 and 0.74 (95% CI, 0.63–0.84) in STOPP, and resulted in correct identification of 71% of the patients with low LS BMD. We confirmed that low LS BMD at diagnosis is associated with LS BMD at treatment cessation (OR 5.9; 95% CI, 3.2–10.9) and with symptomatic fractures (OR 1.7; 95% CI, 1.3–2.4) that occurred between diagnosis and 12 months following treatment cessation. In meta-analysis, LS BMD at diagnosis (OR 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1–2.4) and the 6-month cumulative glucocorticoid dose (OR 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1–3.2) were associated with fractures that occurred in the first year of treatment. In summary, a prediction model for identifying pediatric ALL patients with low LS BMD at diagnosis, as an important indicator for bone fragility, was successfully developed and validated. This can facilitate identification of future bone fragility in individual pediatric ALL patients. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).