bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photopolymerized Gel Electrolyte with Unprecedented Room‐Temperature Ionic Conductivity for High‐Energy‐Density Solid‐State Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wen Pengchao , Lu Pengfei , Shi Xiaoyu , Yao Yu , Shi Haodong , Liu Hanqing , Yu Yan , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: November 2020

Solid‐state sodium metal batteries (SMBs) are highly promising rechargeable batteries owing to the abundance and cost effectiveness of sodium. However, the low room‐temperature ionic conductivity and narrow voltage window of solid‐state electrolytes seriously inhibit the development of SMBs. Herein, an ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate based quasisolid‐state electrolyte (ETPTA–NaClO4–QSSE) is developed by photopolymerization for high‐energy‐density solid‐state SMBs. The ETPTA–NaClO4–QSSE exhibits remarkable room‐temperature ionic conductivity of 1.2 mS cm−1, a wide electrochemical window of >4.7 V versus Na+/Na, and excellent flexibility. Owing to outstanding interfacial compatibility between this electrolyte and the electrode, Na metal symmetrical batteries show ultralong cyclability with 1000 h at 0.1 mA cm−2, and ultralow overpotential of 355 mV at 1 mA cm−2, indicative of significant suppression of the Na dendrite growth. Notably, Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) full batteries (NVP||ETPTA–NaClO4–QSSE||Na) display unprecedented rate capability, with a recorded capacity of 55 mAh g−1 at 15 C, higher than any achieved so far in solid‐state SMBs, and long‐term cycling stability at 5 C, offering a capacity retention of 97% after 1000 cycles. Furthermore, NVP||ETPTA–NaClO4–QSSE||Na pouch cells represent excellent flexibility and exceptional safety, demonstrative of wide applicability. Therefore, this work will open new opportunities to develop room‐temperature high‐energy‐density solid‐state SMBs.
Pulmonary function in Williams–Beuren syndrome: Spirometric data of 22 Italian patients
Authors: Pangallo Elisabetta , Cianci Paola , Favuzza Filippo , Milani Donatella , Vimercati Chiara , Moretti Alex , Picchi Raffaella , De Paoli Anita , Agosti Massimo , Selicorni Angelo
Published: November 2020

Williams–Beuren syndrome (WBS) is caused by an haploinsufficiency of the 7q11.2 region which involves the elastin gene (ELN). A deficiency of elastin is a known pathophysiological mechanism of emphysema/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A previous study hypothesized a higher risk of COPD in WBS patients. Herein, this phenomenon was further investigated looking for a possible correlation between COPD and WBS. Dynamic lung volumes (forced vital capacity [FVC], FEV1, FEV1/FVC) were measured in 22 patients (age range 18.9 ± 7.4 years) affected with WBS, genetically confirmed, correlating these parameters to respiratory risk factors. Dyspnea, cough and wheezing were detected in 6/22 (27%) patients. Obstructive and restrictive patterns were identified in 6/22 (27%) and 2/22 (9%) cases, respectively with no evidence of irreversible obstruction. CVF, FEV1 and FEV1/CVF mean values were all normal, with values of 91.3% (n.v. > 80%), 84.2% (n.v. > 80%) and 0.82 (n.v. > 0.7), respectively. The severity of the comorbidities did not show a cause‐effect relation with the respiratory patterns, nevertheless patients treated with anti‐hypertensive drugs had poorer pulmonary function. Our findings are in accordance with previous observations, showing that emphysema/COPD is not a typical finding in young patients with WBS. However, a respiratory function assessment should be included in the follow‐up of WBS patients, especially in adolescents/young adults under treatment with anti‐hypertensive drugs.
Efficacy of Intensive Acupuncture Versus Sham Acupuncture in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tu Jian‐Feng , Yang Jing‐Wen , Shi Guang‐Xia , Yu Zhang‐Sheng , Li Jin‐Ling , Lin Lu‐Lu , Du Yu‐Zheng , Yu Xiao‐Gang , Hu Hui , Liu Zhi‐Shun , Jia Chun‐Sheng , Wang Li‐Qiong , Zhao Jing‐Jie , Wang Jun , Wang Tong , Wang Yang , Wang Tian‐Qi , Zhang Na , Zou Xuan , Wang Yu , Shao Jia‐Kai , Liu Cun‐Zhi
Published: November 2020

Objective

To assess the efficacy of intensive acupuncture (3 times weekly for 8 weeks) versus sham acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

In this multicenter, randomized, sham‐controlled trial, patients with knee OA were randomly assigned to receive electroacupuncture (EA), manual acupuncture (MA), or sham acupuncture (SA) 3 times weekly for 8 weeks. Participants, outcome assessors, and statisticians were blinded with regard to treatment group assignment. The primary outcome measure was response rate, which is the proportion of participants who simultaneously achieved minimal clinically important improvement in pain and function by week 8. The primary analysis was conducted using a Z test for proportions in the modified intent‐to‐treat population, which included all randomized participants who had ≥1 post‐baseline measurement.

Results

Of the 480 participants recruited in the trial, 442 were evaluated for efficacy. The response rates at week 8 were 60.3% (91 of 151), 58.6% (85 of 145), and 47.3% (69 of 146) in the EA, MA, and SA groups, respectively. The between‐group differences were 13.0% (97.5% confidence interval [97.5% CI] 0.2%, 25.9%; P = 0.0234) for EA versus SA and 11.3% (97.5% CI −1.6%, 24.4%; P = 0.0507) for MA versus SA. The response rates in the EA and MA groups were both significantly higher than those in the SA group at weeks 16 and 26.

Conclusion

Among patients with knee OA, intensive EA resulted in less pain and better function at week 8, compared with SA, and these effects persisted though week 26. Intensive MA had no benefit for knee OA at week 8, although it showed benefits during follow‐up.
Enhanced electrochemiluminescence of Ru(bpy)32+‐doped silica nanoparticles by chitosan/Nafion shell@carbon nanotube core‐modified electrode
Authors: Liu Qiaoling , Bai Wenjia , Guo Zhihui , Zheng Xingwang
Published: November 2020

Although Ru(bpy)32+‐doped silica nanoparticles have been widely explored as the labelling tags for electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensing different targets, the poor electrical conductive properties of the silica nano‐matrix greatly limit their ECL sensitivity. Therefore, a novel scheme to overcome this drawback on Ru(bpy)32+‐doped silica nanoparticles ECL is desirable. Here, a new scheme for this purpose was developed based on electrochemically depositing a nanoscale chitosan hydrogel layer on the carbon nanotube (CNT) surface to form chitosan hydrogel shell@CNT core nanocomposites. In this case, the nanoscale chitosan hydrogel layer only formed on the CNT surface due to the superior electrocatalytic effect of CNT on H+ reduction compared with the basic glass carbon electrode. Due to both the superhydrophilic properties and polyelectrolyte features of nanoscale chitosan hydrogel on the CNT surface, chemical affinity as well as the electric conductivity between Ru(bpy)32+‐doped silica nanoparticles and CNT were obviously enhanced, and then the ECL effectivity of Ru(bpy)32+ inside silica nanoparticles was improved. Furthermore, based on the discriminative interaction of these Ru(bpy)32+‐doped silica nanoparticles towards both the ssDNA probes and the ssDNA probe/miRNA complex, as well as the specific adsorption effect of these nanoparticles on the nanoscale chitosan shell@Nafion/CNT core‐modified glass carbon electrode, a highly sensitive ECL method for miRNA determination was developed and successfully used to detect miRNA in human serum samples.
Screening of important metabolites and KRAS genotypes in colon cancer using secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Cho Kookrae , Choi Eun‐Sook , Lee Sung Young , Kim Jung‐Hee , Moon Dae Won , Son Jong‐Wuk , Kim Eunjoo
Published: November 2020

Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) is an imaging‐based analytical technique that can characterize the surfaces of biomaterials. We used TOF‐SIMS to identify important metabolites and oncogenic KRAS mutation expressed in human colorectal cancer (CRC). We obtained 540 TOF‐SIMS spectra from 180 tissue samples by scanning cryo‐sections and selected discriminatory molecules using the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. Each TOF‐SIMS spectrum contained nearly 860,000 ion profiles and hundreds of spectra were analyzed; therefore, reducing the dimensionality of the original data was necessary. We performed principal component analysis after preprocessing the spectral data, and the principal components (20) of each spectrum were used as the inputs of the SVM algorithm using the R package. The performance of the algorithm was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) (0.9297). Spectral peaks (m/z) corresponding to discriminatory molecules used to classify normal and tumor samples were selected according to p‐value and were assigned to arginine, α‐tocopherol, and fragments of glycerophosphocholine. Pathway analysis using these discriminatory molecules showed that they were involved in gastrointestinal disease and organismal abnormalities. In addition, spectra were classified according to the expression of KRAS somatic mutation, with 0.9921 AUC. Taken together, TOF‐SIMS efficiently and simultaneously screened metabolite biomarkers and performed KRAS genotyping. In addition, a machine learning algorithm was provided as a diagnostic tool applied to spectral data acquired from clinical samples prepared as frozen tissue slides, which are commonly used in a variety of biomedical tests.
Efficient CO2 Capture by Ultra‐high Microporous Activated Carbon Made from Natural Coal
Authors: Boujibar Ouassim , Ghamouss Fouad , Ghosh Arunabh , Achak Ouafae , Chafik Tarik
Published: November 2020

Efficient CO2 capture capabilities of activated carbons prepared from natural coal are presented. The preparation method involved simple chemical activation using wet impregnation or dry physical mixing of the raw sample with activating agents like KOH or NaOH. The activated materials were characterized for their structural and textural properties by different analysis techniques. The activated samples exhibited well‐developed porosity, large surface area, and high pore volumes and had other active elements like oxygenated functional groups. These groups modified the surface energy of the resultant samples. The superior performance of the activated carbons was attributed to several factors, including large surface area, presence of narrow micropores, and oxygenated functional groups on the surface.
SAR Studies of the Leupyrrins: Design and Total Synthesis of Highly Potent Simplified Leupylogs
Authors: Wosniok Paul R. , Knopf Christopher , Dreisigacker Sandra , Orozco‐Rodriguez J. Manuel , Hinkelmann Bettina , Mueller Peter P. , Brönstrup Mark , Menche Dirk
Published: November 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Dirk Menche at the University of Bonn. The image depicts the natural product leupyrrin A1 and a synthetic leupylog in balance on an IC50 weighing scale. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202002622.
COVID‐19, thromboembolic risk, and Virchow's triad: Lesson from the past
Authors: Mehta Jawahar L. , Calcaterra Giuseppe , Bassareo Pier P.
Published: November 2020

COronavirus Infectious Disease which started in 2019 (COVID‐19) usually presents with the signs and symptoms of pneumonia. However, a growing number of recent reports highlight the fact that the infection may be by far more than only a respiratory disease. There is evidence of an increased thromboembolic risk in COVID‐19 patients, with a variety of manifestations in terms of ischemic stroke, deep vein thrombosis, acute pulmonary embolism, acute myocardial infarction, systemic arterial embolism, and placental thrombosis. The German physician Rudolph Virchow, about two centuries ago, described three pivotal factors contributing together to thromboembolic risk: endothelial injury, hypercoagulability, and blood stasis. COVID‐19‐associated hypercoagulability is unique and distinctive, and has its own features involving the immune system. Many of the drugs proposed and currently undergoing evaluation for the treatment of COVID‐19 have one or more of the Virchow's triad elements as a target. The three factors outlined by Virchow are still able to explain the venous and arterial hypercoagulable state in the dramatic COVID‐19 setting. Nowadays, we have decidedly more sophisticated diagnostic tools than Virchow had, but many of the challenges that we are facing are the same as Virchow faced in the 19th century.
Patient‐reported causes of distress predict disparities in time to evaluation and time to treatment after breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Fayanju Oluwadamilola M. , Ren Yi , Stashko Ilona , Power Steve , Thornton Madeline J. , Marcom P. Kelly , Hyslop Terry , Hwang E. Shelley
Published: November 2020

Background

We examined whether the National Comprehensive Cancer Network distress thermometer (DT), a patient‐reported outcome measure, could be used to identify levels and causes of distress associated with racial/ethnic disparities in time to care among patients with breast cancer.

Methods

We identified women aged ≥18 years with stage 0‐IV breast cancer who were diagnosed in a single health system between January 2014 and July 2016. The baseline visit was defined as the first postdiagnosis, pretreatment clinical evaluation. Zero‐inflated negative binomial (ZINB) regression (modeling non‐zero DT scores and DT scores = 0) and logistic regression (modeling DT score ≥ 4, threshold for social services referral) were used to examine associations between baseline score (0 = none to 10 = extreme) and types of stressors (emotional, familial, practical, physical, spiritual) after adjustment for race/ethnicity and other characteristics. Linear regression with log transformation was used to identify predictors of time to evaluation and time to treatment.

Results

A total of 1029 women were included (median baseline DT score = 4). Emotional, physical, and practical stressors were associated with distress in both the ZINB and logistic models (all P < .05). Black patients (n = 258) were more likely to report no distress than Whites (n = 675; ZINB zero model odds ratio, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.68‐4.40; P < .001) despite reporting a similar number of stressors (P = .07). Higher DT scores were associated with shorter time to evaluation and time to treatment while being Black and having physical or practical stressors were associated with delays in both (all P < .05).

Conclusions

Patient‐reported stressors predicted delays in time to care, but patient‐reported levels of distress did not, with Black patients having delayed time to care despite reporting low levels of distress. We describe anticipatory, culturally responsive strategies for using patient‐reported outcomes to address observed disparities.
Comprehensive map of visual projection neurons for processing ultraviolet information in the Drosophila brain
Authors: Tai Chu‐Yi , Chin An‐Lun , Chiang Ann‐Shyn
Published: November 2020

The brain perceives visual information and controls behavior depending on its underlying neural circuits. How UV information is represented and processed in the brain remains poorly understood. In Drosophila melanogaster, UV light is detected by the R7 photoreceptor that projects exclusively into the medulla layer 6 (M6). Herein, we imaged 28,768 single neurons and identified 238 visual projection neurons linking M6 to the central brain. Based on morphology and connectivity, these visual projection neurons were systematically classified into 94 cell types belonging to 12 families. Three tracts connected M6 in each optic lobe to the central brain: One dorsal tract linking to the ipsilateral lateral anterior optic tubercle (L‐AOTU) and two medial tracts linking to the ipsilateral ventral medial protocerebrum (VMP) and the contralateral VMP. The M6 information was primarily represented in the L‐AOTU. Each L‐AOTU consisted of four columns that each contained three glomeruli. Each L‐AOTU glomerulus received inputs from M6 subdomains and gave outputs to a glomerulus within the ellipsoid body dendritic region, suggesting specific processing of spatial information through the dorsal pathway. Furthermore, the middle columns of the L‐AOTUs of both hemispheres were connected via the intertubercle tract, suggesting information integration between the two eyes. In contrast, an ascending neuron linked each VMP to all glomeruli in the bulb and the L‐AOTU, bilaterally, suggesting general processing of information through the ventral pathway. Altogether, these diverse morphologies of the visual projection neurons suggested multi‐dimensional processing of UV information through parallel and bilateral circuits in the Drosophila brain.
Five years into the Israeli National Diabetes Program – are we on the right track?
Authors: TAMIR Orly , AFEK Arnon , SHANI Mordechai , CAHN Avivit , RAZ Itamar
Published: November 2020

Diabetes mellitus poses major public health and economic challenges which necessitate national‐level intervention. The ultimate goal of the Israel National Diabetes Program is to ensure that all people with diabetes, or at high risk of developing diabetes, will live well and have access to high‐quality services that meet their individual needs. The integrated National Diabetes Program in Israel was established in 2014. Prevailing needs were identified and working groups assigned to delineate deficiencies and propose mode of action. Program leaders summarized and prioritized the needs, and identified main targets of action for the preliminary years. The program was achieved by a combined approach: top‐bottom, having the Director General of the Ministry of Health (MoH) personally involved, and bottom‐up, by routine meetings with representatives of the health organizations, clinical experts, patient representatives and other stakeholders. Main achievements during the first five years of the program included setting up a novel funding mechanism for diabetes prevention, substantiating the field of diabetes education in Israel, designing the infrastructure of diabetic foot care in Israel, updating the national health‐budget allocation formula with incentives to improve provision of services, and promoting a mandatory system for judgemental labelling of food products. The program is in progress with ongoing monitoring, evaluation and improvement with particular emphasis on translational learning. Although there is much to be done, diabetes care in Israel has taken an enormous step forward in the past five years.
Electrochemical Sensor for Detection of p‐Nitrophenol Based on Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles/α‐Cyclodextrin Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Solaem Akond Umme , Barman Koushik , Mahanta Abhinandan , Jasimuddin Sk.
Published: November 2020

p‐Nitrophenol (p−NP) is a high priority toxic pollutant and that has harmful effects on human, animals and plants. Thus, the detection and determination of p−NP present in the environment is an urgent as well as highly important requisite. The present article, therefore focused on the construction of a novel electrochemical sensor based on NiO nanoparticles/α‐cyclodextrin functionalized reduced graphene oxide modified glassy carbon electrode (NiO−NPs‐α‐CD‐rGO‐GCE) for the selective and sensitive detection of p−NP. UV‐vis, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), selected area electron diffraction pattern (SAED) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms the formation of highly pure NiO nanoparticles. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV) were used to characterize the step‐wise electrode modification process. DPV was carried out to quantify p−NP within the concentration range of 1−10 μM and found the detection limit of 0.12 nM on the basis of the signal‐to‐noise ratio S/N=3. The electrode can able to detect different isomers of nitrophenols. Interferences of other pollutants such as phenol, p‐aminophenol, o‐ and m‐ nitrophenol, 4‐chlorophenol, 2,6‐dichlorophenol and ions like K+, Cd2+, Cl−, SO42−did not affect the sensing of p−NP. The newly developed sensor exhibited diffusion controlled kinetics and had excellent sensitivity, selectivity and reproducibility for the detection of p−NP. The electrode showed good recoveries in real sample analysis.
An intelligent passivity‐based backstepping approach for optimal control for grid‐connecting permanent magnet synchronous generator‐based tidal conversion system
Authors: Belkhier Youcef , Achour Abdelyazid
Published: November 2020

Tidal turbine systems‐based permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) has been largely investigated due to their higher efficiency, predictability, and high‐power density. However, parameter uncertainties and external disturbances make the controller design a challenging work. This study suggests a new adaptive fuzzy linear feedback passivity‐based backstepping control to solve the robustness problems faced by the conventional proportional‐integral (PI) controls in the machine‐side converter (MSC). The proposed controller design uses an energy‐based approach; therefore, its dependence on the system parameters is extremely reduced and avoids the cancellation of nonlinearities of the system. Then, the dynamic response is fast and efficient, and the asymptotic stability and the robustness of the conversion system are improved. The main objectives are the extraction of the maximum tidal power, feeding the electrical grid with only the active power, and regulating the DC voltage and the reactive power toward their references, whatever the disturbances caused by the PMSG behavior. The control strategy is tested under parameter variations, and the performances are compared to the conventional PI strategy. Numerical investigation under MATLAB/Simulink environment demonstrates that the proposed control solution provides a higher efficiency and robustness under parameter variations over conventional PI approach.
Location and orientation based LCOE: Simplified visual analysis and generalization of the levelized cost of electricity from storageless photovoltaic systems
Authors: Komilov Asliddin
Published: November 2020

This article describes a multidimensional visualization approach to the analysis of the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), which shows that the influence of a single parameter deviates with respect to different values of other parameters. It also demonstrates that the proportionality of the LCOE to the photovoltaic power output makes the same data set suitable for analyzing the dependence of LCOE on the location and orientation of the PV system (PVS). Conversion of the Photovoltaic Electricity Potential map into the LCOE‐map is demonstrated in the example of Uzbekistan. A method is presented, which simply converts the PV orientation‐dependent photovoltaic power output data into the PV orientation‐dependent LCOE data. The universal approach to calculate degrees of freedom for the azimuthal angle and inclination angle of the PV is demonstrated in the example of the LCOE minima fluctuations of 2%. The demonstrated methods can help decision making by initially assessing the potential for installing a PV system in various locations and reducing the balance of system (BOS) by integrating the system into a building, taking into account the orientation of the integrated surface, and its impact on electricity costs.
Effect of herbal formulation intake on health indices in albino Wistar rat model
Authors: Naseem Adila , Akhtar Saeed , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Sameen Aysha , Layla Anam , Afzal Khurram , Karrar Emad , Rahaman Abdul , Ismail Tariq , Ahmad Nazir , Siddeeg Azhari
Published: November 2020

Dyslipidemia management activity of ginger‐, garlic‐, and lemon‐based herbal mixture was tested as paste and herbal extract in hypercholesterolemic adult male albino rats. Atherogenic diet‐induced hypercholesterolemia in rats was treated by supplementing the diet with 2.5% herbal paste (4.2 g/kg b.w.) or 2.5 ml oral gavage (20 ml/kg b.w.) of liquid herbal extract daily for 42 days. Hematological and serological outcomes of herbal formulation feeding were compared with the cholesterol‐fed positive control and normal control. The results suggest the significant (p < .05) inhibitory properties of herbal paste and liquid extracts against dyslipidemia showing 31%–37%, 62%–68%, and 40%–56% lower levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), respectively. Treating cholesterol‐fed animals with herbal paste and extract significantly (p < .05) increased total protein (5–5.5 g/dl) and serum albumin (3.7–4.2 g/dl) concentration as compared to the normal control. Contrary to significant hypocholesterolemic activity, higher serum total bilirubin levels, that is, 0.70 mg/dl, were observed in rats subchronically exposed to herbal paste and liquid extracts. Nonsignificant (p > .05) impact of herbal formula feeding was observed on hematological indices except lymphocyte counts, that is, 93% in rats fed on herbal paste. The results validate conventional hypocholesterolemic claims associated with ginger‐, garlic‐, and lemon‐based herbal formulations; however, deeper insight into their dose‐dependent response in hypercholesterolemia is necessitated to rule out the toxicological impact on the consumer.
Role of resection of torus tubarius to maximize the endonasal exposure of the inferior petrous apex and petroclival area
Authors: Li Lifeng , London Nyall R. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Carrau Ricardo L.
Published: November 2020

Endoscopic access to the petrous apex and petroclival region often requires sacrificing the Eustachian tube (ET). This study aimed to compare the maximum exposure of the petrous apex and petroclival region via an endonasal corridor when sparing or resecting the ET and its torus. Six cadaveric specimens (12 sides) were dissected through an endonasal transpterygoid approach. Endonasal exposure of the petroclival region was completed using techniques that included the preservation of the ET (group 1), resection of the torus tubarius (group 2), and resection of the ET (group 3) were sequentially performed on each side. The working distances from the anterior genu of the petrous internal carotid artery (ICA) to the inferior boundaries of each corridor were measured and compared. In group 1, the medial petrous apex and petroclival sulcus could be exposed with a working distance of 4.08 ± 0.67 mm. In group 2, the fossa of Rosenmüller, inferior petrous apex, and hypoglossal canal could be exposed, with a significantly increased working distance of 18.33 ± 0.89 mm (P = .001). In group 3, the exposure and ICA control was superior and offered a working distance of 20.67 ± 0.78 mm. No statistically significant difference derived from comparing groups 2 and 3 (P = .875). Resection of the torus tubarius can increase exposure of the petrous apex and petroclival region. It provides an alternative to resecting the ET, which might be beneficial for maintenance of middle ear function. ET resection, however, seems superior when ICA control is required.
Phenazine Radical Cations as Efficient Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Cross‐Dehydrogenative Aza‐Henry Reaction
Authors: Unglaube Felix , Hünemörder Paul , Guo Xuewen , Chen Zixu , Wang Dengxu , Mejía Esteban
Published: November 2020

The redox activity of molecular phenazine catalysts has been previously exploited for aerobic oxidative amine homo‐ and cross‐coupling reactions. In this contribution, we have extended the reaction scope of this novel type of organocatalyst and used them in the cross‐dehydrogenative aza‐Henry coupling of isoquinolines with nitromethane under aerobic conditions. Additionally, we have designed and prepared a novel porous organic polymer by cross‐linking of tetrakis(4‐bromophenyl)silane and dihydrophenazine through Pd‐catalyzed Buchwald‐Hartwig cross‐coupling. This new type of heterogeneous catalyst, apart from being robust and easily reusable, also showed outstanding catalytic activities and improved selectivity compared to its molecular counterpart. A plausible reaction mechanism was proposed based on spectroscopic and kinetic measurements.
Magnetic micropolar nanofluids flow in double lid‐driven enclosures using two‐energy equation model
Authors: Raizah Zehba A. S. , Ahmed Sameh E. , Alrowaili Dalal , Mansour M. A. , Morsy Z.
Published: November 2020

Impacts of an inclined electromagnetic force on a mixed convective process in two‐sided lid‐driven geometries using the two‐energy equation model are examined in this study. The flow domain is filled by a porous medium and the local thermal nonequilibrium model is applied. Magnetic micropolar nanofluids are assumed as working fluids consisting of water as a base fluid and CuO as nanoparticles. The forced convection situation is due to the moving of the upper and lower walls in the right direction with a constant velocity. The used methodology depends on the finite volume method, together with the SIMPLE algorithm. The obtained outcomes are visualized using contours of the streamlines, isotherms for the nanofluid phase, isotherms for the solid phase, and angular velocity. The main findings revealed that the increase in lengths of the heated parts and the Nield number reduces the Nusselt number for the nanofluid phase. Also, the average heat transfer rate for the nanofluid and solid phases are boosted with the increase in the vortex viscosity.
Robotic pancreatectomy for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas: A large‐scale study
Authors: Zhang Xiu‐Ping , Xu Shuai , Wang Yang , Wang Zi‐Zheng , Tan Xiang‐Long , Gao Yuan‐Xing , Zhao Guo‐Dong , Liu Qu , Zhao Zhi‐Ming , Liu Rong
Published: November 2020

Background

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas is a mucin‐producing tumor that develops from the epithelial lining of the main pancreatic duct or branch pancreatic ducts. Here, we assessed the feasibility and safety of various robotic pancreatectomy approaches to treating IPMN, and short‐ and long‐term outcomes of robotic IPMN resection.

Methods

Data from patients who underwent robotic pancreatectomy for IPMN between 2012 and 2019 at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. The survival outcomes for patients were compared using the Kaplan‐Meier method and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Of the 174 patients who underwent robotic pancreatectomy, 120 and 54 patients had benign or malignant tumors, respectively. Patients with malignant IPMN had lost more weight in the 6 months prior to surgery (P = .008), and a higher serum level of CA19‐9 (P < .001) and CEA (P < .001). Postoperative pancreatic or biliary fistula occurred in 17 or 6 patients overall, respectively. The pathology of the IPMN (P = .030), tumor diameter (P = .016), mural nodule (P = .023), tumor capsule (P = .003) and CA19‐9 (P = .024) values were all independent risk factors for survival. The median OS time after surgical resection for the malignant IPMN group was 29.0 months (range, 21.6‐36.4). The OS was significantly different in patients with IPMN according to their different pathology, tumor capsule, mural nodule group, CA19‐9 level, or tumor diameter.

Conclusions

This large‐scale survey of 174 patients indicated that various robotic pancreatectomy approaches were feasible and safe for IPMN. Patients had an acceptable prognosis, indicating that robotic pancreatectomy represents a feasible potential therapeutic strategy for IPMN.
Fistula risk score‐adjusted comparison of postoperative pancreatic fistula following laparoscopic vs open pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Lee Boram , Yoon Yoo‐Seok , Kang Chang Moo , Choi Munseok , Lee Jun Suh , Hwang Ho Kyoung , Cho Jai Young , Lee Woo Jung , Han Ho‐Seong
Published: November 2020

Background

To evaluate a risk‐adjusted comparison of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula POPF (CR‐POPF) following laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy (LPD) vs open pancreatoduodenectomy (OPD) using the fistula risk score (FRS).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 579 patients who underwent LPD (n = 274) or OPD (n = 305) between 2012 and 2019 at two tertiary hospitals. Using the FRS, the risk was stratified into four categories; negligible, low, intermediate and high risk.

Results

The median FRS was significantly higher in the LPD than in the OPD group (5.4 ± 1.2 vs 3.9 ± 1.8, P < .001). The overall incidence of CR‐POPF in the LPD vs OPD groups were 16.4% vs 17.7% (P = .187). When POPF risks were stratified by FRS, CR‐POPF following LPD vs OPD in patients with low risk (0% vs 6.3%, P = .294), intermediate risk (16.1% vs 22.9%, P = .053) and high risk (33.3% vs 27.3%, P = .577) were not significantly different.

Conclusion

Despite a higher risk score in the LPD group, the CR‐POPF was similar following both procedures in the unadjusted and FRS‐risk‐adjusted comparisons. The CR‐POPF was more significantly affected by patient risk factors such as the soft pancreas and small pancreatic duct.
Ultrasound Imaging Findings of Acute Testicular Infection in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Chen Liao , Huang Xin , Yi Zuohuizi , Deng Qing , Jiang Nan , Feng Chuangli , Zhou Qing , Sun Bin , Chen Wenwei , Guo Ruiqiang
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), has become a global pandemic, raising widespread public health concerns. Our team treated hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 in Wuhan, where the outbreak first began, and we suspected that SARS‐CoV‐2 may cause testicular infection in male patients. We conducted this study to explore that observation.

Methods

We enrolled male patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID‐19 and performed a bedside ultrasound (US) examination of the scrotum, focused on findings of acute inflammation such as tunica albuginea thickening, enlargement and heterogeneous echogenicity of the testis, epididymis, or both, an abscess, scrotal wall edema, and hydrocele. Then we compared the proportions of observed epididymo‐orchitis in patients from different age groups and COVID‐19 severity groups.

Results

A total of 142 patients with COVID‐19 were enrolled in our study, and 32 (22.5%) patients had acute orchitis, epididymitis, or epididymo‐orchitis on scrotal US imaging, according to the diagnosis criteria. The observed risk of acute scrotal infection increased with age, with the incidence reaching 53.3% in men older than 80 years. We also observed that men with severe COVID‐19 had a significantly higher possibility of epididymo‐orchitis compared to the nonsevere COVID‐19 group (P = .037).

Conclusions

This study shows US imaging evidence that SARS‐CoV‐2 may cause infection of the testis or epididymis, and the risk is worthy of the attention of clinicians.
Dynamical analysis of a mathematical model of disease spreading on networks with symptomatic and asymptomatic infectors
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Maoxing , Hou Qiang
Published: November 2020

We establish anSEIaIdRSmodel to present the dynamics of epidemic on networks. Following the method of the next generation matrix, we derive the explicit formulas of the basic reproduction numberR0. It shows that the asymptomatic infector plays an important role in disease spreading. By theoretical analysis, we find that the disease‐free equilibriumE0is globally asymptotically stable ifR0 ≤ 1; and the endemic equilibriumE+is globally asymptotically stable ifR0 > 1. At last, numerical simulations also show that the role that the asymptomatic infector plays in disease spreading on networks cannot be neglected.
Identifying Potential Anglers and Customer Segments of Texas Catfish Anglers to Guide Management Actions
Authors: Warren Schlechte J. , Taylor John B. , Buckmeier David L. , Hutt Clifford P. , Hunt Kevin M.
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we demonstrate how one can combine angler survey data with Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Tapestry data to assist in developing a statewide plan for catfish recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) and management. In 2010, Mississippi State University surveyed 1,078 Texas freshwater catfish anglers to examine their catch-related attitudes and trip preferences by using a stated choice experiment. The study showed that the responding freshwater catfish anglers could be grouped into five clusters based on their catch-related attitudes. We used ESRI’s Business Analyst extension to define the primary customer segments (also called “Tapestries”) within these five catch-related clusters. We used principal components analysis followed by a similarity profile analysis to help us identify differences among the customer segments for the five catch-related clusters. We found that the Rooted Rural Tapestry, located outside urban areas, was significantly more likely to be associated with catfish anglers whose answers suggested that they had higher trophy motivation compared to the other angler clusters. We also found that anglers in the urban areas were more likely to have a variety of motivations. The Southwestern Families Tapestry was identified as an underserved group exhibiting high growth potential and should be considered for targeted R3 efforts using insight gathered from that tapestry on its preferred media channels. We plotted areas with high populations and proportions of individual tapestries that were the greatest in discriminating among the catch-related angler clusters. Our ESRI predictive maps for 2024 showed areas throughout Texas where managers could focus different R3 advertising and catfish management strategies based on the underlying customer segments.
Pseudohalogen Chemistry in Ionic Liquids with Non‐innocent Cations and Anions
Authors: Arlt Sören , Bläsing Kevin , Harloff Jörg , Laatz Karoline Charlotte , Michalik Dirk , Nier Simon , Schulz Axel , Stoer Philip , Stoffers Alrik , Villinger Alexander
Published: November 2020

Within the second funding period of the SPP 1708 “Material Synthesis near Room Temperature”,which started in 2017, we were able to synthesize novel anionic species utilizing Ionic Liquids (ILs) both, as reaction media and reactant. ILs, bearing the decomposable and non‐innocent methyl carbonate anion [CO3Me]−, served as starting material and enabled facile access to pseudohalide salts by reaction with Me3Si−X (X=CN, N3, OCN, SCN). Starting with the synthesized Room temperature Ionic Liquid (RT‐IL) [nBu3MeN][B(OMe)3(CN)], we were able to crystallize the double salt [nBu3MeN]2[B(OMe)3(CN)](CN). Furthermore, we studied the reaction of [WCC]SCN and [WCC]CN (WCC=weakly coordinating cation) with their corresponding protic acids HX (X=SCN, CN), which resulted in formation of [H(NCS)2]− and the temperature labile solvate anions [CN(HCN)n]− (n=2, 3). In addition, the highly labile anionic HCN solvates were obtained from [PPN]X ([PPN]=μ‐nitridobis(triphenylphosphonium), X=N3, OCN, SCN and OCP) and HCN. Crystals of [PPN][X(HCN)3] (X=N3, OCN) and [PPN][SCN(HCN)2] were obtained when the crystallization was carried out at low temperatures. Interestingly, reaction of [PPN]OCP with HCN was noticed, which led to the formation of [P(CN)2]−, crystallizing as HCN disolvate [PPN][P(CN⋅HCN)2]. Furthermore, we were able to isolate the novel cyanido(halido) silicate dianions of the type [SiCl0.78(CN)5.22]2− and [SiF(CN)5]2− and the hexa‐substituted [Si(CN)6]2− by temperature controlled halide/cyanide exchange reactions. By facile neutralization reactions with the non‐innocent cation of [Et3HN]2[Si(CN)6] with MOH (M=Li, K), Li2[Si(CN)6] ⋅ 2 H2O and K2[Si(CN)6] were obtained, which form three dimensional coordination polymers. From salt metathesis processes of M2[Si(CN)6] with different imidazolium bromides, we were able to isolate new imidazolium salts and the ionic liquid [BMIm]2[Si(CN)6]. When reacting [Mes(nBu)Im]2[Si(CN)6] with an excess of the strong Lewis acid B(C6F5)3, the voluminous adduct anion {Si[CN⋅B(C6F5)3]6}2− was obtained.
Chitosan based fibers embedding carbon dots with anti‐bacterial and fluorescent properties
Authors: Kurt Saliha B. , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: November 2020

Due to the intriguing properties of Chitosan (CS), many efforts have been paid for CS‐based fiber preparation. As it is impossible to prepare CS fiber directly, facilitating polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) possessing necessary properties that enable CS‐based fiber fabrication is used. For this purpose, 3 wt% of CS in 90% acetic acid solution and 6 wt% PVA solution in DI water used in CS/PVA fiber preparation at different proportions for example, 2:1, 9:1 and 10:1 by weight to fabricate fibers by electrospinning method. Furthermore, to render fluorescent property to CS/PVA (9:1) fibers, N‐doped carbon dots (C‐dots) added into fiber precursor during fiber preparation. The emission peak of C‐dots based fibers that with fluorescent features was observed at around 436 nm. The morphological, structural and, thermal characterizations of CS‐based fibers were done with scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analyzer, respectively. Anti‐bacterial activity of bare CS/PVA was increased with the increase in amounts of C‐dots embedding. The inhibition of zone of CS/PVA (9:1) fibers was increased from 1.8 ± 0.2 cm to 2.1 ± 0.3 cm and 2.9 ± 0.4 cm against E. coli by increasing the amounts of C‐dots from 2.9 mg and 5 mg. Also, the same behavior was observed against S. aureus where the inhibition zone is increased from 2.5 ± 0.1 cm to 3.2 and 3.5 cm by doubling the C‐dots amounts in CS/PVA fiber. Moreover, bare and C‐dots containing CS/PVA fibers were found blood compatible (nonhemolytic) up to 1 mg/mL concentration according to hemolysis and blood clotting tests.
Self‐stigma and quality of life among Chinese American breast cancer survivors: A serial multiple mediation model
Authors: Chu Qiao , Wong Celia C. Y. , Chen Lingjun , Shin Lilian J. , Chen Leqi , Lu Qian
Published: November 2020

Objective

Despite the increasing scholarly attention toward self‐stigma among Asian breast cancer survivors, research is limited about the underlying psychological mechanisms by which self‐stigma may influence quality of life for this population. The present study investigated how self‐stigma is associated with quality of life among Chinese American breast cancer survivors by examining the serial mediating effects of concerns about breast cancer, self‐efficacy for coping with cancer, and depressive symptoms.

Methods

Chinese American breast cancer survivors (n = 112) completed a questionnaire packet assessing self‐stigma related to breast cancer, concerns about breast cancer, self‐efficacy for coping with cancer, depressive symptoms, and quality of life. Path analysis was conducted to test the hypothesized serial multiple mediation model.

Results

The hypothesized model was supported: self‐stigma was negatively associated with quality of life through concerns about breast cancer, self‐efficacy, and depressive symptoms. After the mediators were controlled for, the direct effect of self‐stigma on quality of life was no longer significant.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that concerns about breast cancer, self‐efficacy for coping, and depressive symptoms are important pathways through which self‐stigma may influence quality of life among Chinese American breast cancer survivors. Healthcare practitioners should be aware of survivors' self‐stigma and make efforts to alleviate survivors' excessive cancer concerns, facilitate their self‐efficacy, and offer emotional support to improve quality of life for this population.
Childhood bronchiolitis obliterans in Hong Kong‐case series over a 20‐year period
Authors: Chan Kate C. , Yu Michelle W. , Cheung Tammy W. Y. , Lam David S. Y. , Leung Theresa N. H. , Tsui Tak K. , Ip Ka I. , Chau Christy S. K. , Lee So L. , Yip Ada Y. F. , Wong Tak W. , Mak Vivien C. W. , Li Albert M.
Published: November 2020

Background and Objective

Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) is a rare but serious condition. The natural history and outcomes remain poorly understood. In this clinical review, we aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of children diagnosed with BO in Hong Kong (HK).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of pediatric patients with BO under the care of six respiratory units in HK from January 1996 to December 2015. Information was retrieved from medical records.

Results

Fifty‐six patients were included with a male predominance (67.9%). The median age at diagnosis was 1.98 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.84–4.99 years). Postinfectious BO (PIBO) was the commonest cause (64.3%) followed by posthematopoietic stem‐cell transplant (21.4%). Adenovirus (63.2%) was the commonest causative pathogen among PIBO. The median follow‐up duration was 9.7 years (IQR: 2.9–14.3 years). Twenty‐five patients (44.6%) could achieve symptom‐free recovery at the time of follow‐up. Five (8.9%) and three (5.4%) were oxygen or ventilator dependent, respectively. There were two deaths, both had posttransplant BO. Patients who developed BO after transplant had significantly worse lung function than those with PIBO. There were no risk factors significantly associated with worse clinical outcomes (oxygen/ventilator dependence or death) by logistic regression. Among patients with PIBO, coinfection at presentation was significantly associated with persistent symptoms at follow‐up (p = .028).

Conclusions

The most common cause of childhood BO in HK is postinfectious and coinfection at presentation was associated with persistent symptoms at follow‐up. Further studies are needed to better elucidate disease progression, treatment options and long term outcomes.
A new result on reachable set estimation for time‐varying delay singular systems
Authors: Zhao Jiemei
Published: November 2020

This paper is concerned with the reachable set estimation (RSE) problem for singular systems with both time‐varying delays and bounded peak disturbances. The objective is to search a bounded set that contains all the system states under zero initial conditions. By utilizing the theory of {1}‐inverse and Wirtinger‐based integral inequality, an improved criterion is established in terms of the linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) to guarantee that the reachable set of time‐varying delay singular system is regular, impulse‐free and bounded by the intersection of ellipsoids. Here, a relaxed Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional is employed to solve the addressed RSE problem which does not require all the involved symmetric matrices to be positive definite. Finally, numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Observable but Not Isolable: The RhAu24(PET)181+ Nanocluster
Authors: Anderson Ian D. , Riskowski Ryan A. , Ackerson Christopher J.
Published: November 2020

The synthesis and characterization of RhAu24(PET)18 (PET = 2‐phenylethanethiol) is described. The cluster is cosynthesized with Au25(PET)18 and rhodium thiolates in a coreduction of RhCl3, HAuCl4, and PET. Rapid decomposition of RhAu24(PET)18 occurs when purified from the other reaction products, precluding the study of isolated cluster. Mixtures containing RhAu24(PET)18, Au25(PET)18, and rhodium thiolates are therefore characterized. Mass spectrometry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and chromatography methods suggest a combination of charge–charge and metallophilic interactions among Au25(PET)181−, rhodium thiolates and RhAu24(PET)18 resulting in stabilization of RhAu24(PET)18. The charge of RhAu24(PET)18 is assigned as 1+ on the basis of its stoichiometric 1:1 presence with anionic Au25(PET)18, and its stability is contextualized within the superatom electron counting rules. This analysis concludes that the Rh atom absorbs one superatomic electron to close its d‐shell, giving RhAu24(PET)181+ a superatomic electron configuration of 1S21P4. Overall, an updated framework for rationalizing open d‐shell heterometal dopant electronics in thiolated gold nanoclusters emerges.