bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel approach to semi‐quantification of tracer accumulation in dopamine transporter scan
Authors: Ito Yoshinori , Fujita Naotoshi , Hara Kazuhiro , Tada Tomohiro , Abe Shinji , Katsuno Masahisa , Naganawa Shinji , Kato Katsuhiko
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Accurate tracer accumulation evaluation is difficult owing to the partial volume effect (PVE). We proposed a novel semi‐quantitative approach for measuring the accumulation amount by examining the approximate image. Using a striatal phantom, we verified the validity of a newly proposed method to accurately evaluate the tracer accumulations in the caudate and putamen separately. Moreover, we compared the proposed method with the conventional methods.

Methods

The left and right caudate/putamen regions and the whole brain region as background were identified in computed tomography (CT) images obtained by single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT and acquired the positional information of each region. SPECT‐like images were generated by assigning assumed accumulation amounts to each region. The SPECT‐like image, approximated to the actual measured SPECT image, was examined by changing the assumed accumulation amounts assigned to each region. When the generated SPECT‐like image most approximated the actual measured SPECT image, the accumulation amounts assumed were determined as the accumulation amounts in each region. We evaluated the correlation between the count density calculated by the proposed method and the actual count density of the 123I solution filled in the phantom. Conventional methods (CT‐guide method, geometric transfer matrix [GTM] method, region‐based voxel‐wise [RBV] method, and Southampton method) were also evaluated. The significance of differences between the correlation coefficients of various methods (except the Southampton method) was evaluated.

Results

The correlation coefficients between the actual count density and the SPECT count densities were 0.997, 0.973, 0.951, 0.950, and 0.996 for the proposed method, CT‐guide method, GTM method, RBV method, and Southampton method, respectively. The correlation of the proposed method was significantly higher than those of the other methods.

Conclusions

The proposed method could calculate accurate accumulation amounts in the caudate and putamen separately, considering the PVE.
Correlation of Oxygen Anion Redox Activity to In‐Plane Honeycomb Cation Ordering in NaxNiyMn1−yO2 Cathodes
Authors: Li Mengya , Jafta Charl J. , Geng Linxiao , Liu Jue , Bai Yaocai , Li Jianlin , Essehli Rachid , Belharouak Ilias
Published: May 2022

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage systems because of their abundant and low‐cost component materials. However, the lower energy density of SIBs compared with lithium‐ion batteries diminishes their practical value proposition. Among the many sodium‐based cathodes, layered transition metal oxides with high sodium content have energy densities comparable with the lithium‐ion battery technology. When charged above 4.1 V, the sodium‐based cathodes often undergo transformations because the activation of oxygen anion redox causes irreversible oxygen release, transition metal ion migration, lattice distortion, and rapid capacity decay. Here, in situ gas analysis is performed to evaluate the lattice oxygen anion redox activity in NaxNiyMn1−yO2 cathodes with P2 and O3 structural orderings. Operando X‐ray diffraction and neutron diffraction are performed to assess the structural changes related to lattice oxygen redox and transition metal ion migration in NaxNiyMn1−yO2 cathodes. The results unveil that in‐plane honeycomb cationic ordering can help suppress oxygen anion redox activity, which is critical for the future design of layered transition metal oxide cathodes that are prone to achieve high‐energy for durable SIBs.
Crop rotation influences yield more than soil quality at a semiarid location
Authors: McVay Kent , Khan Qasim A.
Published: May 2022

Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is often rotated with a fallow in semiarid regions to conserve soil moisture and minimize crop failures. We hypothesized that direct seed systems coupled with intensified and more diverse crop rotations would produce an equivalent or greater annualized grain yield than a traditional winter wheat–fallow (WF) system. Furthermore, continuous cropping would lead to an accumulation of greater soil carbon than the traditional WF. A 6‐yr study was conducted to evaluate crop rotations, which included pea (Pisum sativum L.), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik), lentil as a cover crop, spring wheat, or camelina [Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz] in rotation with winter wheat in 2‐ and 3‐yr rotations. The results of this study averaged over 6 yr showed that increased cropping intensity produced an annualized yield equal to that of WF, provided that either a fallow or a cover crop rather than another grain crop was present prior to winter wheat. The soil quality indices showed particulate organic matter (POM) increased with rotations with greater cropping intensity (1.00 vs. 0.67), although the POM of these rotations was not different from that of WF.
Unidirectional Gaussian One‐Way Steering
Authors: Qars Jamal El
Published: May 2022

Steering is a type of quantum nonlocality that exhibits an inherent asymmetry between two observers. In a nondegenerate three‐level laser coupled to a two‐mode squeezed vacuum reservoir, under realistic experimental conditions, the Gaussian steering of two laser modes, and , generated within the cascade transitions, respectively are examined. It is found that the steerability is always higher than that from ; in addition, the steering asymmetry cannot exceed ln 2, which implies that the state never diverges to an extremal asymmetry state. It is shown how squeezed noise can play a constructive role in realizing one‐way steering. As the main result, it is demonstrated that the state can exhibit one‐way steering solely from , which is shown to emerge as a consequence of the fact that the intensity difference of the modes and is verified to remain always positive, irrespective of the physical and environmental parameters of . The generated unidirectional one‐way steering may provide a useful resource for the distribution of the trust in future asymmetric quantum information tasks.
Isolation of an Elusive Phosphametallacyclobutadiene and Its Role in Reversible Carbon−Carbon Bond Cleavage
Authors: Jakhar Vineet K. , Esper Alec M. , Ghiviriga Ion , Abboud Khalil A. , Ehm Christian , Veige Adam S.
Published: May 2022

The reactivity of phosphaalkynes, the isolobal and isoelectronic congeners to alkynes, with metal alkylidyne complexes is explored in this work. Treating the tungsten alkylidyne [tBuOCO]W≡CtBu(THF)2 (1) with phosphaalkyne (10) results in the formation of [O2C(tBuC=)W{η2‐(P,C)−P≡C−Ad}(THF)] (13‐tBuTHF) and [O2C(AdC=)W{η2‐(P,C)−P≡C−tBu}(THF)] (13‐AdTHF); derived from the formal reductive migratory insertion of the alkylidyne moiety into a W−Carene bond. Analogous to alkyne metathesis, a stable phosphametallacyclobutadiene complex [tBuOCO]W[κ2‐C(tBu)PC(Ad)] (14) forms upon loss of THF from the coordination sphere of either 13‐tBuTHF or 13‐AdTHF. Remarkably, the C−C bonds reversibly form/cleave with the addition or removal of THF from the coordination sphere of the formal tungsten(VI) metal center, permitting unprecedented control over the transformation of a tetraanionic pincer to a trianionic pincer and back. Computational analysis offers thermodynamic and electronic reasoning for the reversible equilibrium between 13‐tBu/AdTHF and 14.
Stereokontrollierte Synthese von fluorierten Isochromanen durch Iod(I)/Iod(III)‐Katalyse
Authors: Häfliger Joel , Sokolova Olga O. , Lenz Madina , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Gilmour Ryan
Published: May 2022

Der Erfolg von gesättigten, fluorierten Heterozyklen im Anwendungsbereich der modernen Arzneimittel bietet einen Anreiz für die Weiterentwicklung der Hauptgruppenelement‐Katalyse. Motiviert durch die Alleinstellung von Isochromanen im Spektrum der bioaktiven kleinen Molekülen, wurden entsprechende fluorierte Analoga stereoselektiv mithilfe von Iod(I)/Iod(III)‐Katalyse synthetisiert, unter anderem auch, um die metabolische Labilität der benzylischen Position zu umgehen. Die Acetaleinheit ist durch den anomeren Effekt wichtiger Regulator der Konformation. Um die Vielfalt bekannter Fluorozyklisierungsreaktionen mit Cabonsäurederivaten zu erweitern, wurden leicht zugängliche 2‐Vinylbenzaldehyde verwendet (bis zu >95 : 05 d.r. und 97 : 03 e.r.). Bei Betrachtung gemessener Kristallstukturen zeigten sich wichtige stereoelektronische Interaktionen der fluorierten Produkte. Es wurde bestätigt, dass das [CH2‐CHF]‐Fragment als stereoelektronische Nachahmung des [O‐CH(OR)]‐Acetal Motivs betrachtet werden kann.
Optimization of cell wall disruption and lipid extraction methods by combining different solvents from wet Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Arabian Daryush
Published: May 2022

Over the past few decades, microalgae have emerged as a promising option for making lipid‐based bioactive compounds. The purpose of this study was to extract lipids from Chlorella vulgaris. In this study, different cell wall disruption methods such as microwave, liquid nitrogen, ultrasound (US), and bead mill were compared. We selected and optimized two systems based on their efficacy in disrupting cell walls—US and beads mill. Based on the dry weight of C. vulgaris biomass, the maximum lipid extraction by the US was 17.1% and by bead mill was 15.2%. Following cell wall disruption of C. vulgaris, chloroform–methanol (2:1) solvent combination achieved high lipid extraction. However, the hexane–ethanol (1:1) solvent combination was chosen because of its lower toxicity. Specifically, the effect of the solvent‐to‐biomass ratio, the temperature, and the extraction time was investigated. The results indicated that the chloroform–methanol solvent combination yielded optimal results at 8 ml/g solvents to biomass, 45°C, and 60 min and that the hexane–ethanol combination yielded optimal results at 6 ml/g, 35°C, and 73 min, respectively. The highest amount of lipids was obtained from C. vulgaris with 87.6% moisture content. As a cell wall disruption method, the US obtained 20.4% and 16.4% with a combination of chloroform–methanol solvents and hexane–ethanol, respectively. Additionally, bead milling resulted in the highest extraction yield of 17.6% for chloroform–methanol and 13.9% for hexane–ethanol. Based on the results of cell wall disruption, the US method is the most efficient cell wall disruption method in terms of lipid extraction efficiency.
Cashew tree gum for biomaterials engineering: A versatile raw material in consolidation
Authors: de Azevedo Gabriel Assis , Heinrichs Maria Carolina , Moraes Ângela Maria
Published: May 2022

In this review, the focus of discussion is the polysaccharide fraction of cashew gum (CG), an exudate ofAnacardium occidentaleL., a plant typical of hot and humid tropical climates commonly found in northeastern Brazil and from which cashew nuts are extensively commercialized. CG purification, biological activity, and physical–chemical properties are explored in this work, in addition to applications of this biopolymer as a component of biomaterials used to either support, enhance, or replace damaged tissues or improve biological function. Evidence of its successful use to produce a range of biomaterials, from particles to gels and films, and to improve properties of already existing formulations are provided, supporting its versatility in this field of application.
Antibody charge variant modulation by in vitro enzymatic treatment in different Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures
Authors: Xu Jianlin , Santos Johanna , Anderson Nadine S. , Borys Michael C. , Pendse Girish , Li Zheng Jian
Published: May 2022

Charge variants represent a critical quality attribute that must be controlled during the development and manufacturing of monoclonal antibodies (mAb). Previously, we reported the development of a cost‐effective enzymatic treatment capable of removing the C‐terminal lysine from a mAb produced by a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) GS cell line. This treatment resulted in a significant decrease in basic charge variants and a corresponding improvement in the main peak, enabling a longer cell culture production duration for titer improvement. Here, we describe this enzymatic treatment protocol in detail and demonstrate its applicability to two additional mAbs produced by distinct industrial cell lines. The simple addition of carboxypeptidase B (CpB) at a ratio of 1:10,000 (w/w) to whole cell cultures significantly improved the main peaks for both mAbs without affecting other critical quality attributes, including size exclusion chromatography impurities and N‐glycans. Our results demonstrate that this in vitro CpB treatment protocol can be used as a platform strategy to improve main peak for mAbs that exhibit high levels of basic variants attributable to C‐terminal lysines. An in vitro enzymatic treatment in general may be another good addition to existing in vivo CHO cell culture strategies for titer improvement and control of critical quality attributes.
Tricyanoborane‐Functionalized Anionic N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes: Adjustment of Charge and Stereo‐Electronic Properties
Authors: Zapf Ludwig , Peters Sven , Bertermann Rüdiger , Radius Udo , Finze Maik
Published: May 2022

The 1‐methyl‐3‐(tricyanoborane)imidazolin‐2‐ylidenate anion (2) was obtained in high yield by deprotonation of the B(CN)3‐methylimidazole adduct 1. Regarding charge and stereo‐electronic properties, anion 2 closes the gap between well‐known neutral NHCs and the ditopic dianionic NHC, the 1,3‐bis(tricyanoborane)imidazolin‐2‐ylidenate dianion (IIb). The influence of the number of N‐bonded tricyanoborane moieties on the σ‐donating and π‐accepting properties of NHCs was assessed by quantum chemical calculations and verified by experimental data on 2, IIb, and 1,3‐dimethylimidazolin‐2‐ylidene (IMe, IIa). Therefore NHC 2, which acts as a ditopic ligand via the carbene center and the cyano groups, was reacted with alkyl iodides, selenium, and [Ni(CO)4] yielding alkylated imidazoles 3 and 4, the anionic selenium adduct 5, and the anionic nickel tricarbonyl complex 8, respectively. The results of this study prove that charge, number of coordination sites, buried volume (%Vbur) and σ‐donor and π‐acceptor abilities of NHCs can be effectively fine‐tuned via the number of tricyanoborane substituents.
A robust optimized convolutional neural network model for human activity recognition using sensing devices
Authors: Ata Mohamed Maher , Francies Mariam Labib , Mohamed M. A.
Published: May 2022

Human activity recognition has become an expansive field of interest in recent years, both in academic and industrial research. Human Activity recognition (HAR) is concerning the prediction of person's movement or action such as walking, standing, sitting, up and downstairs, etc. Convolutional neural network (CNN) is a key component with deep learning. The main objective of this study is to design and implement an activity recognition algorithm in the state of the art of deep learning systems which accomplish superlative performance to detect human activities. Accordingly, an extensive comparison has been developed between different deep learning algorithms such as classical (CNN) models and Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) models with respect to the major human activities. Furthermore, a robust (CNN) deep learning model has been built up and proposed in order to enhance the recognition precision of human activities. This proposed model uses raw data acquired from a set of inertial sensor and exploring numerous human achas been built up and proposedtivities; sitting, standing, jogging, walking, and etc. Experimental results show that the precision of the proposed deep structure has achieved 97.5% with respect to the NAdam optimizer which would be considered as the most effectively recognizer compared to other deep learning architectures.
The ‘Quantal Newtonian’ First Law: A Complementary Perspective to the Stationary‐state Quantum Theory of Electrons
Authors: Sahni Viraht
Published: May 2022

A complementary perspective to the Göttingen‐Copenhagen interpretation of stationary‐state quantum theory of electrons in an electromagnetic field is described. The perspective, derived from Schrödinger‐Pauli theory, is that of the individual electron via its equation of motion or ‘Quantal Newtonian’ First Law. The Law is in terms of ‘classical’ fields experienced by each electron: the sum of the external and internal fields vanishes. The external field is a sum of the electrostatic and Lorentz fields. The internal field is a sum of fields’ representative of Pauli and Coulomb correlations; kinetic effects; electron density; and internal magnetic component. The energy is obtained from these fields. The sources of the fields are expectation values of Hermitian operators. The perspective is elucidated by application to quantum dots in a magnetic field in a ground, excited singlet and triplet states. The relationship of the perspective to Quantal and traditional density functional theories is briefly explained.
A systematic review on neutrophils interactions with titanium and zirconia surfaces: Evidence from in vitro studies
Authors: Elangovan Gayathiri , Mello‐Neto Joao M. , Tadakamadla Santosh K. , Reher Peter , Figueredo Carlos Marcelo S.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to assess in vitro studies that evaluated neutrophil interactions with different roughness levels in titanium and zirconia implant surfaces.

Material and Methods

An electronic search for literature was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science and a total of 14 studies were included. Neutrophil responses were assessed based on adhesion, cell number, surface coverage, cell structure, cytokine secretion, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, neutrophil activation, receptor expression, and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) release. The method of assessing the risk of bias was done using the toxicological data reliability assessment tool (TOXRTOOL).

Results

Ten studies have identified a significant increase in neutrophil functions, such as surface coverage, cell adhesion, ROS production, and NETs released when interacting with rough titanium surfaces. Moreover, neutrophil interaction with rough–hydrophilic surfaces seems to produce less proinflammatory cytokines and ROS when compared to naive smooth and rough titanium surfaces. Regarding membrane receptor expression, two studies have reported that the FcγIII receptor (CD16) is responsible for initial neutrophil adhesion to hydrophilic titanium surfaces. Only one study compared neutrophil interaction with titanium alloy and zirconia toughened alumina surfaces and reported no significant differences in neutrophil cell count, activation, receptor expression, and death.

Conclusions

There are not enough studies to conclude neutrophil interactions with titanium and zirconia surfaces. However, different topographic modifications such as roughness and hydrophilicity might influence neutrophil interactions with titanium implant surfaces.
Corporate social performance and non‐financial reporting in the cruise industry: Paving the way towards UN Agenda 2030
Authors: Di Vaio Assunta , Varriale Luisa , Di Gregorio Angelo , Adomako Samuel
Published: May 2022

This article investigates the role of accounting disciplines in assessing and fostering corporate social performance (CSP) of business organisations to meet the UN Agenda 2030. Drawing from legitimacy theory, this qualitative study analyses if and how non‐financial reporting positively affects and fosters CSP practices and outcomes within the cruise industry. Specifically, using a case study methodology, a major cruise company has been analysed outlining its sustainable behaviour, through the manual content analysis of sustainability reports (2016–2017–2018), in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs) introduced by the UN Agenda 2030. The findings outline that the cruise company presents a clear sustainability and community orientation and adopts several initiatives, mostly focused on environmental and social issues, addressed to meet the 17 SDGs, where reputation and positive image have been recognised as the major antecedents in the perspective of CSP. This study contributes to the literature giving a broader and different reading of sustainability reporting as a “booster” of the CSP in meeting the SDGs and a further interesting application of the legitimacy theory, and offers managerial implications to systematise the content of non‐financial reporting by improving the quality of disclosure to achieve the SDGs, with focus on CSP processes, outcomes and ways.
Parent and child self‐ and co‐regulation during pediatric venipuncture: Exploring heart rate variability and the effects of a mindfulness intervention
Authors: Constantin Kaytlin L. , Moline Rachel L. , Pillai Riddell Rebecca , Spence Jeffrey R. , Fiacconi Chris M. , Lupo‐Flewelling Kathryn , McMurtry C. Meghan
Published: May 2022

Needle procedures are common throughout childhood and often elicit distress in children and parents. Heart rate variability (HRV), as an index of emotion regulation, can inform both self‐regulatory and co‐regulatory processes. Mindfulness may serve to regulate distress; however, no research has studied mindfulness or parent and child regulatory responding concurrently during venipuncture. Stemming from a randomized controlled trial investigating a mindfulness intervention, this study sought to describe regulatory responding (via HRV) throughout pediatric venipuncture and the role of cognitive–affective factors (mindfulness, parent anxiety, catastrophizing) in 61 parent–child dyads (7–12 years). We examined (1) patterns of parent and child HRV throughout venipuncture and whether a brief, randomly assigned audio‐guided mindfulness versus control exercise affected this pattern and (2) the extent to which changes in parent and child HRV were synchronized throughout venipuncture, and whether parent catastrophizing and anxiety moderated this association. HRV differed as a function of procedural phase. Practicing the mindfulness versus control exercise did not consistently affect HRV in dyads. Positive synchrony was observed during the end of the intervention in dyads with high parental catastrophizing. Otherwise, a pattern of nonsynchrony emerged. Results provide foundational knowledge regarding children's internal (self) and external (parent) regulation mechanisms. RCT registration: NCT03941717.
Integrating microclimatic variation in phenological responses to climate change: A 28‐year study in a hibernating mammal
Authors: Tamian Anouch , Viblanc Vincent A. , Dobson F. Stephen , Neuhaus Peter , Hammer Tracey L. , Nesterova Anna P. , Raveh Shirley , Skibiel Amy L. , Broussard David , Manno Theodore G. , Rajamani Nandini , Saraux Claire
Published: May 2022

Phenological shifts associated with directional changes in climate, resulting in earlier spring activities, have been documented in several animal species. However, the extent to which species respond to overall climate change versus local climate variation is rarely studied. In addition, climate data are usually averaged over large spatial scales, even though local heterogeneity in habitats may be high, and species might be more susceptible to changes in local rather than global climate conditions. In this study, we examined the effects of spatiotemporal climate variation and climate change on the phenology of a hibernating mountain rodent, the Columbian ground squirrel (Urocitellus columbianus). Over 28 years of research (1992–2019), we studied the relationship between the microclimatic conditions experienced by adult and juvenile ground squirrels from four neighboring meadows, and their dates of emergence from hibernation. We used a microclimate model to calculate microclimate variables (local snow depth, soil temperature, air temperature, wind speed, and humidity) at an hourly scale, a 5‐m spatial resolution, and at animal height on the study sites over 28 years. Emergence dates varied with age and sex, among years, as well as among and within meadows, with some areas averaging up to 10 days earlier emergence dates from hibernation than others. While emergence dates tended to be delayed throughout the study period, long‐term temporal changes and interannual variability in emergence dates differed among meadows and depended on individual age and sex. Dates of hibernation emergence were correlated with local climate variables considered either during hibernation or during the preceding summer. Ground squirrels emerged earlier in years or at locations when/where snow melted earlier (years: all individuals excluding 2‐year‐old males, locations: yearlings and older females), and when the previous summer was less windy (≥3‐year‐old individuals) and more humid (2‐year‐old males). Two‐year‐old male ground squirrels also emerged later in locations where snow depth during winter was higher. Using a microclimate model allowed realistic predictions of phenological responses to climate, highlighting its potential for research on animal responses to abiotic change.
Home‐based cardiac rehabilitation using information and communication technology for heart failure patients with frailty
Authors: Nagatomi Yuta , Ide Tomomi , Higuchi Tae , Nezu Tomoyuki , Fujino Takeo , Tohyama Takeshi , Nagata Takuya , Higo Taiki , Hashimoto Toru , Matsushima Shouji , Shinohara Keisuke , Yokoyama Tomiko , Eguchi Aika , Ogusu Ayumi , Ikeda Masataka , Ishikawa Yusuke , Yamashita Fumika , Kinugawa Shintaro , Tsutsui Hiroyuki
Published: May 2022

Aims

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an evidence‐based, secondary preventive strategy that improves mortality and morbidity rates in patients with heart failure (HF). However, the implementation and continuation of CR remains unsatisfactory, particularly for outpatients with physical frailty. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of a comprehensive home‐based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) programme that combines patient education, exercise guidance, and nutritional guidance using information and communication technology (ICT).

Methods and results

This study was a single‐centre, open‐label, randomized, controlled trial. Between April 2020 and November 2020, 30 outpatients with chronic HF (New York Heart Association II–III) and physical frailty were enrolled. The control group (n = 15) continued with standard care, while the HBCR group (n = 15) also received comprehensive, individualized CR, including ICT‐based exercise and nutrition guidance using ICT via a Fitbit® device for 3 months. The CR team communicated with each patient in HBCR group once a week via the application messaging tool and planned the training frequency and intensity of training individually for the next week according to each patient's symptoms and recorded pulse data during exercise. Dietitians conducted a nutritional assessment and then provided individual nutritional advice using the picture‐posting function of the application. The primary outcome was the change in the 6 min walking distance (6MWD). The participants' mean age was 63.7 ± 10.1 years, 53% were male, and 87% had non‐ischaemic heart disease. The observed change in the 6MWD was significantly greater in the HBCR group (52.1 ± 43.9 m vs. −4.3 ± 38.8 m; P < 0.001) at a 73% of adherence rate. There was no significant change in adverse events in either group.

Conclusions

Our comprehensive HBCR programme using ICT for HF patients with physical frailty improved exercise tolerance and improved lower extremity muscle strength in our sample, suggesting management with individualized ICT‐based programmes as a safe and effective approach. Considering the increasing number of HF patients with frailty worldwide, our approach provides an efficient method to keep patients engaged in physical activity in their daily life.
Nanomolar Level Fluorogenic Detection of Cyanide with an Amide Functionalized Zirconium Metal‐Organic Framework and Its Application in Real‐World Cyanide Monitoring
Authors: Ghosh Subhrajyoti , Nagarjun Nagarathinam , Alam Masud , Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi , Biswas Shyam
Published: May 2022

This work contains synthesis of a di‐amide linker based Zr(IV) metal‐organic framework (MOF, 1) and its characterization with by PXRD, elemental analysis, FE‐SEM, EDX and FT‐IR analysis and application for the detection of toxic cyanide in aqueous medium. Furthermore, the physicochemical stability of the sensor was judged by the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and PXRD analysis. TGA curve of 1 displayed that the thermal stability of the probe was up to 230 °C. The MOF material was stable in sensing medium and in wide pH range (pH=2–8) which were confirmed by PXRD analysis of the recovered samples. The surface area (BET) of this porous sensor was 672 m2/g with a pore volume of 0.36 cm3/g at p/po=0.5. Guest free form of the MOF material (1’) displayed its high efficiency for the fluorescence recognition of cyanide (CN−) with an extraordinary limit of detection of 76.4 nM in aqueous medium. Comparable recognition time (10 min) as the other available chemosensors of CN− ion and sensing of CN− using easily portable paper strips make this probe an extraordinary chemosensor for CN− ions. Together with paper strip based sensing, detection of CN− in apple seeds, various real water samples and wide ranges of pH solutions are the special features of the probe. The abstraction of amide proton by CN− ion favors “turn‐on” sensing, which was revealed by 1H‐NMR titration. This sensor of cyanide can also be used as luminescent switch due to its reversible nature of sensing.
Role of Maillard Reaction Products as Antioxidants in Washed Cod and Washed Turkey Muscle Oxidized by Added Hemoglobin
Authors: Liu Ling , Yin Jie , Richards Mark P.
Published: May 2022

The ability of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) to inhibit hemoglobin (Hb)‐mediated lipid oxidation is examined in washed cod muscle (WCM) and washed turkey breast muscle (WTM). Lipid peroxides and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) are used as markers of primary and secondary lipid oxidation products, respectively. MRPs inhibits Hb‐mediated lipid oxidation in WCM (p < 0.01) but are weakly inhibitory in WTM. α‐tocopherol concentration is 24‐fold greater in WCM compared to WTM. The elevated α‐tocopherol content of WCM may partly explain the enhanced antioxidant effectiveness of MRPs in WCM, noting that MRPs and α‐tocopherol act synergistically in the scavenging of free radicals. MRPs are more effective in inhibiting lipid oxidation in WCM at pH 6.6 compared to lower pH values. Antioxidant effectiveness of MRPs diminishes when stored refrigerated but not with frozen storage. MRPs obtained by 3 h heating contains more Maillard reaction intermediates than 2 h heating, which better inhibits LOOH formation (p < 0.01). These intermediates decrease faster during refrigerated compared to frozen storage. These studies suggest elevated pH and sufficient endogenous tocopherols are required for low concentrations of MRPs to protect highly unsaturated lipid in washed muscle from oxidation by hemoglobin.

Practical Applications: This study shows that the maillard reaction products (MRPs) can be used to inhibit the oxidation of tocopherol‐rich meat products, and the MRPs stored in the frozen condition for a certain period also have antioxidant activity.
Total Synthesis of (−)‐Cannabidiol‐C4
Authors: Marzullo Paola , Maiocchi Alice , Paladino Giuseppe , Ciriello Umberto , Lo Presti Leonardo , Passarella Daniele
Published: May 2022

Cannabidiol‐C4 1 (CBD‐C4, cannabidibutol) is a natural product that is present in the extracts of Cannabis. Its isolation has not been reported to date. The aim of the proposed synthesis is to secure the availability of the pure compound, its spectroscopic characterization, and to confirm its presence in low amounts in the extracts. The enantioselective total synthesis is based on a) the use 3,5‐dimetoxybenzaldehyde as starting material, b) Corey‐Bakshi‐Shibata reduction, c) Claisen‐Ireland rearrangement, d) ring‐closing metathesis, and e) completely not‐trivial demethylation induced by sodium ethanethiolate.
Practical Insights into the Impedance Response of Interdigitated Electrodes: Extraction of Relative Static Permittivity and Electrolytic Conductivity
Authors: Sapotta Benedikt , Schwotzer Matthias , Franzreb Matthias
Published: May 2022

This work aims to provide a detailed understanding of the challenges related to the computation of the relative static permittivity and electrolytic conductivity of a sample medium from its impedance response recorded with interdigitated electrode (IDE) geometries. Within the scope of the study, impedance data has been measured and evaluated for a total of nine sample media using two distinct IDE geometries. Particular emphasis is laid upon the compensation of parasitic influences affecting the impedance response. With the raw data supporting this study fully disclosed, the reader is offered the opportunity to comprehensively retrace the evaluation procedure proposed in the text.
Prepare your institution to support displaced students
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2022

PORTLAND, Ore. — When natural disasters or wars strike students’ home countries, support from their college or university and the surrounding community is critical. Campus administrators have addressed challenges for students from China when the COVID‐19 pandemic started, those whose homes were impacted by earthquakes in Nepal and Haiti, and now those from Ukraine whose lives are disrupted by the war, said Julia Funaki. And domestic students can face upheaval as well, such as after Hurricane Katrina, she added. Funaki, Associate Director at the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, spoke at the organization's annual conference, along with Chris Adams, Associate Director of International Admissions Operations at Indiana University, Bloomington.
Consider the benefits of responsive search ads for recruitment marketing
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: May 2022

Until recently, the default method for running search‐based ad campaigns on Google was its product known as expanded text ads. These ads, as shown to the end user on a search engine results page, are made up of a title, description, and clickable display URL. On the back end, when you create ETAs, you can include up to three headline options and two descriptions for each ad.
Coherent nature of speleothems petrographic and isotopic proxies for climate change: A case study from northwestern Himalaya
Authors: Sengupta Dipanwita , Dutt Som , Saha Subhojit
Published: May 2022

Speleothems are widely used terrestrial archives for the reconstruction of regional paleoclimatic conditions using mainly stable oxygen isotopes. However, the isotopic signals are quite vulnerable to post‐depositional recrystallization, and in the absence of detailed petrographic characterization, the validity of the isotopic dataset remains elusive. The present study is an attempt to bridge the gap between speleothem physical and geochemical proxies, their interrelationship and applicability, to reconstruct the regional climatic conditions in the northwestern Himalayas. We have identified different zones of depleted/enriched oxygen isotopes linked with the enhanced/decreased regional rainfall with strong/weak Indian summer monsoon. Prograding growth laminae and distinct columnar crystalline texture in calcite are associated with depleted oxygen isotopes. This suggests ample water availability and a higher drip rate in the cave, and further approves the wetter regional climate. Whereas, retractional growth laminae with dark micrite and microspar point towards slower drip rate and high evaporation associated with decreased rainfall. The presence of microspar in the studied stalagmite may indicate possible diagenetic alteration. However, oxygen isotopes data is unable to detect these small‐scale changes. Nevertheless, a coherency exists between isotopes and petrographic proxies for regional climate variability on a larger scale, and diagenesis in the studied sample possibly occurred during the early stage of precipitation. Therefore, isotopic studies coupled with detailed petrography can better ascribe paleoclimate conditions, and minimize the chances of erroneous interpretation because of diagenetic alterations of carbonate.
Spatial variations of crustal thickness and Poisson's ratio in the northeastern region of India based on receiver function analysis
Authors: Shukla Neeharika , Hazarika Devajit , Kundu Abhishek , Mukhopadhyay Sagarika
Published: May 2022

Crustal configuration beneath the northeastern region of India has been investigated with the help of receiver function (RF) analysis of teleseismic earthquakes recorded by 19 broadband seismological stations. We adopted the H‐k stacking method to estimate crustal thickness and Poisson's ratio beneath each recording station. The study reveals a large variation in crustal thickness and Poisson's ratio which are correlated with the complex geology and tectonics of the region. The crust is observed to be thinner (36.5–41.6 km) beneath Bengal Basin, Shillong Plateau, and the Brahmaputra valley compared to the Indo‐Burma Ranges (IBR) (~40–54 km) and Arunachal Higher Himalaya (TAWA station, ~45 km) and Sikkim Himalaya (GTK station, ~46.5 km). A large variation of Poisson's ratio is observed in the region (~0.230–0.306). Poisson's ratio is generally low‐to‐intermediate in the Shillong‐Mikir Plateau, Bengal Basin, and the Brahmaputra Valley, while it is intermediate‐to‐high in the Tripura Fold Belt and the northern part of the IBR. The high Poisson's ratio in the Tripura Fold Belt is due to the presence of basaltic basement rock and clay minerals existing in the sedimentary rocks, whereas the presence of partially serpentinized rock in the ophiolitic mélange complex causes a high Poisson's ratio in the IBR.
The challenges of improving infant research methods
Authors: Kominsky Jonathan F.
Published: May 2022

All analysis‐based suggestions for improving infant research are limited by the quality and quantity of data that infant research methods can produce. In this commentary, I expand on Byers‐Heinlein et al. (2022)'s call for methodological innovation by discussing in more detail how we as a field can improve and encourage the improvement of our methods.
The role of perceived discrimination in linking religious practices and well‐being: A study among Muslim Afghan refugees in the Netherlands
Authors: Bender Michael , van Osch Yvette , He Jia , Güngör Derya , Eldja Azim
Published: May 2022

Minorities facing adverse intergroup contact can experience both increased identification with their ethnic group and decreased identification with a host majority group. First, we argue it is important to understand what is associated with adversity, particularly in previously overlooked samples. Muslim refugee samples are often treated differently and experience more adversity than other immigrants. Second, we combine insights on the role of religiosity in acculturation with the observation that religiosity may not have positive effects in societies that do not value (a specific) religion (religiosity‐as‐social‐value hypothesis) as well as insights from rejection (dis)identification models, to understand which domains of being a Muslim are associated with discrimination, (dis‐)identification and well‐being. We hypothesized that Muslim religious practices, but not beliefs, coping or values, are associated with increased perceived discrimination, and suggest that this is because practices are highly visible. Data from Muslim Afghan refugees in the Netherlands (N = 183) revealed that indeed only religious practices were related positively to perceived discrimination. Perceived discrimination in turn mediated the relationship between religious practices and dis‐identification with the majority group, as well as the relationship between religious practices and well‐being. We suggest that the visibility of one's religious behaviour is relevant for acculturation outcomes.
Pathological complete response of plasmacytoid variant bladder cancer to pembrolizumab following genomic analysis
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Tanaka Satoki , Maruo Masafumi , Sugawara Sho , Chiba Kazuto , Miyazaki Kanetaka , Inoue Atsushi , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Nagata Maki
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Plasmacytoid variant bladder cancer is a rare variant of urothelial carcinoma that accounts for 1% of bladder cancers. Plasmacytoid variant urothelial carcinoma is characterized by an aggressive phenotype and poor clinical outcomes.

Case presentation

A 61‐year‐old woman presented with gross hematuria. Cystoscopy showed a 16‐mm solid tumor. Transurethral resection of the bladder tumor was performed, and the pathological diagnosis was invasive plasmacytoid variant urothelial carcinoma. Although the pathological T stage was pT1, computed tomography showed right obturator lymph node swelling. Since previous reports indicate poor response to chemotherapy for this disease, clinical sequencing was performed. Based on the high tumor mutation burden revealed, pembrolizumab was administered for 4 cycles, and computed tomography showed a partial response. Robot‐assisted radical cystectomy was performed, and a pathological complete response including the pelvic lymph node was observed.

Conclusion

Pembrolizumab may be a treatment option for plasmacytoid variant urothelial carcinoma following genomic analysis.
Thermally drawn multifunctional fibers: Toward the next generation of information technology
Authors: Shen Yanan , Wang Zhe , Wang Zhixun , Wang Jiajia , Yang Xiao , Zheng Xinghua , Chen Haisheng , Li Kaiwei , Wei Lei , Zhang Ting
Published: May 2022

As the fundamental building block of optical fiber communication technology, thermally drawn optical fibers have fueled the development and prosperity of modern information society. However, the conventional step‐index configured silica optical fibers have scarcely altered since their invention. In recent years, thermally drawn multifunctional fibers have emerged as a new yet promising route to enable unprecedented development in information technology. By adopting the well‐developed preform‐to‐fiber manufacturing technique, a broad range of functional materials can be seamlessly integrated into a single fiber on a kilometer length scale to deliver sophisticated functions. Functions such as photodetection, imaging, acoustoelectric detection, chemical sensing, tactile sensing, biological probing, energy harvesting and storage, data storage, program operation, and information processing on fiber devices. In addition to the original light‐guiding function, these flexible fibers can be woven into fabrics to achieve large‐scale personal health monitoring and interpersonal communication. Thermally drawn multifunctional fibers have opened up a new stage for the next generation of information technology. This review article summarizes an overview of the basic concepts, fabrication processes, and developments of multifunctional fibers. It also highlights the significant progress and future development in information applications.

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Differences in food insecurity across the rural/urban spectrum—The role of trade flows
Authors: Beverly Mariah , Neill Clinton L.
Published: May 2022

There has been little work relating food flows with food insecurity, and how inter‐county trading can drive differences across the rural/urban divide. Using rural–urban continuum codes in combination with a new data set on food flows at the county level we examine the correlation between food insecurity and trade. Results indicate heterogeneous impacts of food trade flows and county types on food insecurity rates. From Oaxaca‐Blinder decompositions we find that differences between rural and metropolitan counties are largely due to explained factors, but differences between nonmetropolitan, nonrural counties and the other county types are unexplained factors.
Hsa_circ_0000285 contributes to gastric cancer progression by upregulating FN1 through the inhibition of miR‐1278
Authors: Wang Xue , Tan Mao , Huang He , Zou Yanlei , Wang Mengqiao
Published: May 2022

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most severe cancers worldwide, particularly in China. Circular RNA (circRNA) plays an essential role in GC. Hsa_circ_0000285 regulates the progression of several cancers. However, its role in GC has not been reported. This study elucidated the molecular mechanism and role of hsa_circ_0000285 in GC progression.

Methods

GC cells were transfected with silencers of hsa_circ_0000285 and fibronectin 1 (FN1), an inhibitor of miR‐1278, and their negative controls (NC). Mice were injected with short hairpin (sh) RNAs targeting hsa_circ_0000285 or NC. The expression levels of hsa_circ_0000285, miR‐1278, and FN1 were assessed using western blotting and reverse transcription quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Several assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis. Tumor burden was also analyzed. The interactions between miR‐1278, hsa_circ_0000285, and FN1 were ascertained using dual‐luciferase reporter assays. An RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay was used to assess the enrichment of hsa_circ_0000285 and miR‐1278 in GC.

Results

Hsa_circ_0000285 was significantly overexpressed in the GC tissues. Silencing hsa_circ_0000285 inhibited cell proliferation and invasion, promoted apoptosis, and inhibited tumor development. Hsa_circ_0000285 sponged miR‐1278. Inhibition of miR‐1278 in vitro reversed the effects of hsa_circ_0000285 silencing on GC progression. MiR‐1278 targeted FN1, and silencing FN1 neutralized the effects of miR‐1278 inhibitors on GC progression.

Conclusions

The hsa_circ_0000285/miR‐1278/FN1 axis regulated GC progression. In addition, it may serve as a potential therapeutic biomarker for GC.
‘My new home?’: Strategies and challenges of refugee integration programs in Portugal
Authors: Constantino Catarina , Minas Maria
Published: May 2022

Europe is experiencing the greatest humanitarian crisis since the Second World War, which is reflected in an unprecedented influx of refugees into Europe. Against this backdrop, the effective strategies and challenges faced by the programs designed to facilitate the integration of refugees need to be understood. Portugal, together with other countries, has opened its doors to refugees. In this study, qualitative methods are used to understand how the refugee reception and integration are being conducted in Portugal. The perspectives of both refugees and professionals involved in programs aimed at promoting the integration of refugees are taken into consideration. The results suggest that, despite the existence of best practices in the various types of programs, there is significant room for improvement. Thus, specific changes to these programs are proposed with a view to boosting their efficacy and facilitating the integration of refugees in Portugal.