bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Umsatzsteuerrechtliche Fragen bei Cannabis-Anbauvereinigungen
Authors: Widmann Werner
Published: December 2024

Durch die §§ 11 ff. des Gesetzes zum Umgang mit Konsumcannabis (Konsumcannabisgesetz (KCanG), das als Art. 1 des Gesetzes zum kontrollierten Umgang mit Cannabis und zur Änderung weiterer Vorschriften (Cannabisgesetz - CanG) vom 27.3.2024 (BGBl. 2024 I Nr. 109), am 1.7.2024 in Kraft getreten ist, wird Anbauvereinigungen in der Rechtsform des Vereins oder der Genossenschaft unter zahlreichen Voraussetzungen von der „zuständigen Behörde“ erlaubt, gemeinschaftlich Cannabis anzubauen und zum Eigenkonsum an ihre Mitglieder weiterzugeben. In einem Eckpunktepapier der Bundesregierung vom 20.10.2022 war dazu in Tz. 39 unter dem Stichwort „Besteuerung“ folgendes zu lesen: „Bei einer Legalisierung werden Umsätze aus Verkäufen von Cannabis/cannabishaltigen Waren automatisch der Umsatzsteuer unterliegen.“ Das regt zu Überlegungen an, wie die Umsatzbesteuerung dieser Anbauvereinigungen praktisch zu bewerkstelligen ist. „Automatisch“ im Wortsinne wird sie nämlich bestimmt nicht stattfinden.
Dosimetric impact of edema on inguinal lymph node boost in locally advanced vulvar cancer
Authors: Mohamed Sandy , Fokdal Lars , Assenholt Marianne S. , Kallehauge Jesper , Lindegaard Jacob C. , Tanderup Kari
Published: August 2021

We aimed to evaluate the extent of groin edema and its dosimetric effect in boosted inguinal lymph nodes (LN) for vulvar cancer patients. The level of edema was determined in 10 patients treated with radical radiotherapy. A dosimetric evaluation of six LNs in the patient with the maximum level of edema was performed. The accumulated dose across CBCT fractions was acceptable for all six LNs (>94% of prescribed dose) even with the development of up to 13 mm of edema. The major contributor to fractional dose degradation was geographical displacement of the nodes. We suggest evaluation of edema on daily CBCT.
Performance of Cytokine Storm Syndrome Scoring Systems in Pediatric COVID‐19 and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Reiff Daniel D. , Cron Randy Q.
Published: August 2021

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate pediatric patients using existing macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) scoring systems to determine how these systems identify patients with cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) in the setting of a multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) and active coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection.

Methods

Hospitalized pediatric patients with MIS‐C and active COVID‐19 infection at a single institution were identified. Infectious data, clinical findings, and laboratory values were collected, and patients were stratified by disease severity. Eight historically used scoring systems for MAS, HLH, and CSS were examined in the cohort of patients with MIS‐C and pediatric COVID‐19.

Results

The HLH‐2004 criteria and HScore did not identify any patients as having CSS on admission, with only one patient with COVID‐19 meeting criteria at peak disease severity. The 2016 systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA)/MAS criteria, ferritin/erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) ratio, and COVID‐19 CSS Quick Score most frequently identified CSS in this population and distinguished between COVID‐19 and MIS‐C hyperinflammation. The 2019 MAS/sJIA (MS) score and the COVID‐19–associated hyperinflammatory syndrome (cHIS) criteria were less likely to identify CSS, as the MS score overestimated CSS and the cHIS resulted in similar scores regardless of severity or disease type. The Caricchio COVID‐Cytokine Storm (COVID‐CS) criteria identified patients with COVID‐19 frequently but was less useful in MIS‐C because of its COVID‐19‐specific criteria.

Conclusion

MIS‐C and pediatric COVID‐19 result in relatively unique CSSs and patterns of inflammation. Existing scoring systems for CSSs likely do not capture the full breadth of this disease process in MIS‐C and pediatric COVID‐19.
Finite excitation based robust adaptive observer for MIMO LTI systems
Authors: Katiyar Atul , Basu Roy Sayan , Bhasin Shubhendu
Published: August 2021

The article addresses the problem of a robust adaptive observer design for multi‐input multi‐output linear time‐invariant plants subjected to bounded disturbances in the system dynamics and the output relation. An adaptive observer design is proposed based on the finite excitation leading to a switched estimation strategy thus relaxing persistence of excitation (PE) condition. The novel finite persistence excitation (f‐PE) condition introduced in this work is significantly milder than the PE condition in terms of excitation requirement and online verifiability. The switched estimator uses the finite excitation via input signal and ensures uniformly ultimately bounded stability of the estimation error dynamics. A multiple switching strategy, which continuously tracks the information richness (about the unknown parameters), is utilized to reduce the intermediate bounds and is proved to be instrumental in improving the result.
Ionically Mediated Mechanical Deformation Associated with Memristive Switching
Authors: Sriboriboon Panithan , Qiao Huimin , Kang Seunghun , Sun Changhyo , Kim Yunseok
Published: August 2021

Ionically mediated phenomena underpin the functioning of various devices, including batteries, solid oxide fuel cells, memristors, and neuromorphic devices. The ionic behavior corresponding to ionically mediated phenomena causes not only variations in the electrical properties but also mechanical deformation, which is crucial for device reliability. However, the interrelation between ionically mediated electrical properties and mechanical deformation has not been elucidated yet. This study investigates ionically mediated mechanical deformation accompanied by memristive switching in a TiO2 single crystal through simultaneous conductive atomic force microscopy and electrochemical strain microscopy. A comprehensive analysis indicates the existence of a relationship between mechanical deformation and memristive switching based on the ionic behavior. Furthermore, an ionic state variable is used to simplify the interrelation between the electrochemical strain hysteresis and memristive switching associated with applied voltage. This study provides insights on the ionic behavior and can be extended to other systems for the general analysis of the relationship between mechanical deformation and electrical properties.
Engineering Natural Pollen Grains as Multifunctional 3D Printing Materials
Authors: Chen Shengyang , Shi Qian , Jang Taesik , Ibrahim Mohammed Shahrudin Bin , Deng Jingyu , Ferracci Gaia , Tan Wen See , Cho Nam‐Joon , Song Juha
Published: August 2021

The development of multifunctional 3D printing materials from sustainable natural resources is a high priority in additive manufacturing. Using an eco‐friendly method to transform hard pollen grains into stimulus‐responsive microgel particles, we engineered a pollen‐derived microgel suspension that can serve as a functional reinforcement for composite hydrogel inks and as a supporting matrix for versatile freeform 3D printing systems. The pollen microgel particles enabled the printing of composite inks and improved the mechanical and physiological stabilities of alginate and hyaluronic acid hydrogel scaffolds for 3D cell culture applications. Moreover, the particles endowed the inks with stimulus‐responsive controlled release properties. The suitability of the pollen microgel suspension as a supporting matrix for freeform 3D printing of alginate and silicone rubber inks was demonstrated and optimized by tuning the rheological properties of the microgel. Compared with other classes of natural materials, pollen grains have several compelling features, including natural abundance, renewability, affordability, processing ease, monodispersity, and tunable rheological features, which make them attractive candidates to engineer advanced materials for 3D printing applications.
Remarkable Suppression of Vibrational Relaxation in Organic Semiconducting Polymers by Introducing a Weak Electron Donor for Improved NIR‐II Phototheranostics
Authors: Yin Chao , Zhang Hua , Sun Bo , Chen Shangyu , Jiang Xinyue , Miao Xiaofei , Sun Pengfei , Hu Wenbo , Fan Quli , Huang Wei
Published: August 2021

Exploration of high‐efficiency agents for near‐infrared‐II fluorescence imaging (NIR‐II FI) promotes the development of NIR‐II FI in life science. Despite the extensive use of organic semiconducting nanomaterials for NIR‐II FI, the fluorescence efficiency is barely satisfying, and the molecular guideline to improve the imaging quality has not been clarified yet. This contribution designs self‐brightened organic semiconducting polymers (OSPs) for improved NIR‐II phototheranostics of cancer. The amplification of NIR‐II brightness is realized by incorporating a weak electron‐donating unit (5,5′‐dibromo‐4,4′‐didodecyl‐2,2′‐bithiophene, DDB) into the semiconducting backbone with strong electron donor–acceptor alternated structure, which exhibits 6.3‐fold and 25‐fold fluorescence enhancement compared with the counterpart OSP at the same optical concentration and mass concentration, respectively. The broadband femtosecond transient absorption spectra experimentally elucidate the DDB doping‐induced suppression of vibrational relaxation as the underlying reason for the NIR‐II fluorescence amplification. Biocompatible nanoparticles fabricated from the optimal OSP12 exhibit excellent NIR‐II phototheranostic performance both in vitro and in vivo. Our research not only reveals the mechanistic insights for fluorescence enhancement of the designed OSPs from the essential view but also highlights an effective molecular methodology to guide the rational design of imaging agents with enhanced NIR‐II brightness for improved phototheranostics in living subjects.
Pangolin‐Inspired Stretchable, Microwave‐Invisible Metascale
Authors: Wang Changxian , Lv Zhisheng , Mohan Manoj Prabhakar , Cui Zequn , Liu Zhihua , Jiang Ying , Li Jiaofu , Wang Cong , Pan Shaowu , Karim Muhammad Faeyz , Liu Ai Qun , Chen Xiaodong
Published: August 2021

Microwave‐invisible devices are emerging as a valuable technology in various applications, including soft robotics, shape‐morphing structures, and textural camouflages, especially in electronic countermeasures. Unfortunately, conventional microwave‐absorbing metastructures and bulk absorbers are stretching confined, limiting their application in deformable or special‐shaped targets. To overcome such limitations, a conceptually novel soft–rigid‐connection strategy, inspired by the pangolin, is proposed. Pangolin‐inspired metascale (PIMS), which is a kind of stretchable metamaterial consisting of an electromagnetic dissipative scale (EMD‐scale) and elastomer, is rationally designed. Such a device exhibits robust microwave‐absorbing capacity under the interference of 50% stretching. Besides, profiting from the covering effect and size‐confined effect of EMD‐scale, the out‐of‐plane indentation failure force of PIMS is at least 5 times larger than conventional device. As a proof of concept, the proposed device is conformally pasted on nondevelopable surfaces. For a spherical dome surface, the maximum radar cross‐section (RCS) reduction of PIMS is 6.3 dB larger than that of a conventional device, while for a saddle surface, the bandwidth of 10 dB RCS reduction exhibits an increase of 83%. In short, this work provides a conceptually novel platform to develop stretchable, nondevelopable surface conformable functional devices.
Amphiphilic Copolymers for Versatile, Facile, and In Situ Tunable Surface Biofunctionalization
Authors: Ruland André , Schenker Saskia , Schirmer Lucas , Friedrichs Jens , Meinhardt Andrea , Schwartz Véronique B. , Kaiser Nadine , Konradi Rupert , MacDonald William , Helmecke Tina , Sikosana Melissa K. L. N. , Valtin Juliane , Hahn Dominik , Renner Lars D. , Werner Carsten , Freudenberg Uwe
Published: August 2021

Precision surface engineering is key to advanced biomaterials. A new platform of PEGylated styrene–maleic acid copolymers for adsorptive surface biofunctionalization is reported. Balanced amphiphilicity renders the copolymers water‐soluble but strongly affine for surfaces. Fine‐tuning of their molecular architecture provides control over adsorptive anchorage onto specific materials—which is why they are referred to as “anchor polymers” (APs)—and over structural characteristics of the adsorbed layers. Conjugatable with an array of bioactives—including cytokine‐complexing glycosaminoglycans, cell‐adhesion‐mediating peptides and antimicrobials—APs can be applied to customize materials for demanding biotechnologies in uniquely versatile, simple, and robust ways. Moreover, homo‐ and heterodisplacement of adsorbed APs provide unprecedented means of in situ alteration and renewal of the functionalized surfaces. The related options are exemplified with proof‐of‐concept experiments of controlled bacterial adhesion, human umbilical vein endothelial cell, and induced pluripotent cell growth on AP‐functionalized surfaces.
Multiscale, Nano‐ to Mesostructural Engineering of Silk Biopolymer‐Interlayer Biosensors for Continuous Comonitoring of Nutrients in Food
Authors: Dautta Manik , Dia Kazi Khurshidi Haque , Hajiaghajani Amirhossein , Escobar Alberto Ranier , Alshetaiwi Muhannad , Tseng Peter
Published: August 2021

Nutrition measurement has broad applications in science, ranging from dietary assessment, to food monitoring, personalized health, and more. Despite its importance, there are currently no tools that offer continuous cotracking of nutrients direct from food. In this study, the multiscale engineering of silk biopolymer‐interlayer sensors is reported for comonitoring of nutrients. By manipulating various nano‐ to mesostructural properties of such biosensors, sensors are obtained with programmable sensitivity and selectivity to salts, sugars, and oils/fats. Notably, this approach requires no specialized nanomaterials or delicate biomolecules. Programmable biosensors are further formatted for wireless readout and characteristics of these passive, wireless nutrient monitors are studied in vitro. As a proof of concept, the discrimination and comonitoring of salt, sugar, and fat content direct from real, complex foods such as milk, meat, soup, and tea drinks are demonstrated. It is anticipated that such sensors can be utilized in emerging dietary tools for applications across food tracking and human health. In addition, such strategies are expected in structural engineering of sensors to be adaptable to existing or emerging selective or partially selective sensors.
Time‐Dependent Diastereodivergent Michael Addition Enabled by Phosphazenes Acting as Catalysts and Reactants
Authors: Tukhtaev Hamidulla B. , Bezzubov Stanislav I. , Tarasenko Elena A. , Melnikov Mikhail Ya. , Ivanov Konstantin L. , Budynina Ekaterina M.
Published: August 2021

A switching of the step order within cascade process enabled design of a diastereodivergent approach to phosphazenopyrrolines with a 1,3‐relationship of stereocenters. The approach is based on a cascade transformation of readily accessible γ‐azidobutyronitriles that includes Staudinger, aza‐Wittig and Michael steps. Stereodivergence is achieved at the Michael step that is self‐catalyzed by phosphazene intermediates and provides construction of quaternary stereocenter. Depending on the type of phosphazene intermediates, generating either via Staudinger reaction or via subsequent intramolecular aza‐Wittig reaction with nitrile and then reacting with a Michael acceptor, either trans‐ or cis‐isomers of the target product can be produced. Thus, diastereoselectivity can be achieved by varying the time of addition for the Michael acceptor. Therefore, three distinct roles were revealed for phosphazenes in this process: catalysts, reactants and stereoselectivity controllers. This stereodivergent strategy was applied for the synthesis of all stereoisomers of the biorelevant tetrahydro‐7‐aza‐indoles.

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A Unified Approach for Divergent Synthesis of Heterocycles via TMSOTf‐Catalyzed Formal [3+2] Cycloaddition of Electron‐Rich Alkynes
Authors: Chen Ping , Cao Wei , Li Xiangqian , Shi Dayong
Published: August 2021

We present a synthetic protocol for the construction of polysubstituted five‐membered heterocycles via TMSOTf‐catalyzed formal [3+2] cycloaddition of electron‐rich alkynes, which features free from any metal, atom economy and water as the main by‐product. Furthermore, alkenyl ether adduct has been verified as the key intermediate. Notably, by utilizing this approach, we can synthesize a broad range of polysubstituted furans, thiophenes and pyrroles, and extend this transformation to deliver fused‐polyheterocycles. This reaction can be achieved on a gram scale and the corresponding products are intermediates for producing diverse potentially useful scaffolds.

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Structural Analysis and Performance in a Dual‐Mechanism Conductive Filament Memristor
Authors: Tsai Shu‐Chin , Lo Hong‐Yang , Huang Chih‐Yang , Wu Min‐Ci , Tseng Yi‐Tang , Shen Fang‐Chun , Ho An‐Yuan , Chen Jui‐Yuan , Wu Wen‐Wei
Published: August 2021

The development of a dual‐filament model is vital for achieving better performance in next‐generation resistive random‐access memory (RRAM). In this work, the microstructure evolution and corresponding performance of a Cu/Ta2O5−x/Pt system are investigated at the atomic scale. By inducing intrinsic oxygen vacancies into tantalum oxide and applying copper as the active electrode, the RRAM device can exhibit the electrical properties of a dual‐mechanism filament. The device demonstrates a long retention time (104 s) and a large memory window of 106. By using high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy and high‐resolution X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the conductive filament is found to consist of crystalline copper and oxygen vacancies. Moreover, with the growth kinetics of filaments from in situ transmission electron microscopy and curve fitting relevant to the conduction mechanism, the formation of filaments is promoted by field‐coalesced oxygen vacancies induced by the growth of copper filaments. Therefore, this work provides a unique perspective and a novel material engineering approach for tailoring RRAM devices and developing further applications in electronic technology.
Unraveling the Mechanisms of Electrocatalytic Oxygenation and Dehydrogenation of Organic Molecules to Value‐Added Chemicals Over a Ni–Fe Oxide Catalyst
Authors: Mondal Biswajit , Karjule Neeta , Singh Chanderpratap , Shimoni Ran , Volokh Michael , Hod Idan , Shalom Menny
Published: August 2021

Electrocatalytic oxidative upgrading of organic molecules is a promising alternative process to water oxidation for clean hydrogen production. Yet, its underlying mechanism is still not fully understood, and suitable low‐cost electrocatalysts with good product selectivity and activity are still sought after. Here, an active NiFeOx‐based catalyst is reported on as a general platform for the electro‐oxidative upgrading of organic molecules through oxygenation and dehydrogenation, with hydrogen coproduction. Detailed mechanistic studies unveil that C–H bond oxidation (with a bond dissociation energy BDEC–H of ≈88–96 kcal mol−1) is involved in the rate‐limiting step, which differs significantly from the oxygen evolution reaction mechanism. These findings show that the oxidation efficacy is linearly correlated with the BDEC–H of the molecule. Thus, the catalyst can be used as a general platform for large‐scale electro‐oxidation of various substrates through oxygenation and dehydrogenation at high current density (25 mA cm−2), with a good Faradaic yield. The platform's generality is further demonstrated by the selective oxidation of 5‐(hydroxymethyl)furfural into 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid with good efficiency.
Dual‐Function Electrolyte Additive for Highly Reversible Zn Anode
Authors: Zhang Shao‐Jian , Hao Junnan , Luo Dan , Zhang Peng‐Fang , Zhang Bingkai , Davey Kenneth , Lin Zhan , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: August 2021

Practical application of aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs) is significantly limited by poor reversibility of the Zn anode. This is because of 1) dendrite growth, and 2) water‐induced parasitic reactions including hydrogen evolution, during cycling. Here for the first time an elegantly simple method is reported that introduces ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid tetrasodium salt (Na4EDTA) to a ZnSO4 electrolyte. This is shown to concomitantly suppress dendritic Zn deposition and H2 evolution. Findings confirm that EDTA anions are adsorbed on the Zn surface and dominate active sites for H2 generation and inhibit water electrolysis. Additionally, adsorbed EDTA promotes desolvation of Zn(H2O)62+ by removing H2O molecules from the solvation sheath of Zn2+. Side reactions and dendrite growth are therefore suppressed by using the additive. A high Zn reversibility with Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.5% and long lifespan of 2500 cycles at 5 mAh cm−2, 2 mAh cm−2 is demonstrated. Additionally, the highly reversible Zn electrode significantly boosts overall performance of VO2//Zn full‐cells. These findings are expected to be of immediate benefit to a range of researchers in using dual‐function additives to suppress Zn dendrite and parasitic reactions for electrochemistry and energy storage applications.
Direct Access to α‐Aminosilanes Enabled by Visible‐Light‐Mediated Multicomponent Radical Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Yu Xiaoye , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Alasmary Fatmah Ali , Studer Armido
Published: August 2021

α‐Aminosilanes are an important class of organic compounds that show biological activity. In this communication, a new approach to α‐aminosilanes that utilizes photoredox catalysis to enable three‐component coupling of organo(tristrimethylsilyl)silanes with feedstock alkylamines and aldehydes is presented. A wide range of highly functionalized α‐aminosilanes can be obtained in good yields under mild conditions. Both primary amines and secondary amines are compatible with this transformation. Moreover, optically pure α‐aminosilanes are accessible by using chiral amines. Mechanistic studies indicate that reactions proceed through radical/radical cross‐coupling of silyl radicals with α‐amino alkyl radicals.
Built‐in Electric Field Triggered Interfacial Accumulation Effect for Efficient Nitrate Removal at Ultra‐Low Concentration and Electroreduction to Ammonia
Authors: Sun Wu‐Ji , Ji Hao‐Qing , Li Lan‐Xin , Zhang Hao‐Yu , Wang Zhen‐Kang , He Jing‐Hui , Lu Jian‐Mei
Published: August 2021

A built‐in electric field in electrocatalyst can significantly accumulate higher concentration of NO3− ions near electrocatalyst surface region, thus facilitating mass transfer for efficient nitrate removal at ultra‐low concentration and electroreduction reaction (NO3RR). A model electrocatalyst is created by stacking CuCl (111) and rutile TiO2 (110) layers together, in which a built‐in electric field induced from the electron transfer from TiO2 to CuCl (CuCl_BEF) is successfully formed . This built‐in electric field effectively triggers interfacial accumulation of NO3− ions around the electrocatalyst. The electric field also raises the energy of key reaction intermediate *NO to lower the energy barrier of the rate determining step. A NH3 product selectivity of 98.6 %, a low NO2− production of <0.6 %, and mass‐specific ammonia production rate of 64.4 h−1 is achieved, which are all the best among studies reported at 100 mg L−1 of nitrate concentration to date.
The Critical Role of Additive Sulfate for Stable Alkaline Seawater Oxidation on Nickel‐Based Electrodes
Authors: Ma Tengfei , Xu Wenwen , Li Boran , Chen Xu , Zhao Jiajun , Wan Shusheng , Jiang Kun , Zhang Sixie , Wang Zhongfeng , Tian Ziqi , Lu Zhiyi , Chen Liang
Published: August 2021

Seawater electrolysis to produce hydrogen is a critical technology in marine energy projects; however, the severe anode corrosion caused by the highly concentrated chloride is a key issue should be addressed. In this work, we discover that the addition of sulfate in electrolyte can effectively retard the corrosion of chloride ions to the anode. We take nickel foam as the example and observe that the addition of sulfate can greatly improve the corrosion resistance, resulting in prolonged operating stability. Theoretical simulations and in situ experiments both demonstrate that sulfate anions can be preferentially adsorbed on anode surface to form a negative charge layer, which repulses the chloride ions away from the anode by electrostatic repulsion. The repulsive effect of the adsorbed sulfate is also applicable in highly‐active catalyst (nickel iron layered double hydroxide) on nickel foam, which shows ca. 5 times stability of that in traditional electrolyte.
Synthesis of water‐soluble BODIPY dyes and investigation of their DNA interaction properties and cytotoxicity/phototoxicity
Authors: Keleş Turgut , Barut Burak , Yıldırım Sercan , Yalçın Can Özgür , Biyiklioglu Zekeriya
Published: August 2021

In this study, water‐soluble BODIPY dyes (BDPY‐4,BDPY‐5) bearing dimethylamino and diethylamino groups were synthesized for the first time. The DNA interaction and nuclease effect of two water‐soluble BODIPY dyes were examined using absorption, competitive binding experiments, and agarose gel electrophoresis. Then, cytotoxicity and phototoxicity of the compounds were determined against A549 cells by MTT cell viability assay. The ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectra ofBDPY‐4andBDPY‐5displayed hypochromism and absorption maxima shifted to the red region. In addition,Kbvalues of the compounds were calculated as 2.23 × 104and 4.84 × 104 M−1, respectively. An high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) instrument without a column was used to conduct competitive binding experiments for the first time. The approach prevented the decrease in the response due to dilution and enabled the analysis to be carried out in a short time. Upon increasing concentrations of the compounds, the emission intensity of EB‐DNA significantly decreased. These obtained results suggested that the compounds bound to CT‐DNA with intercalative mode. At the same time, the Stern–Volmer constants were determined as 1.80 × 106and 1.79 × 106 M−1forBDPY‐4andBDPY‐5, respectively, which is coherent with intercalative binding mode. The compounds did not display noticeable photonuclease actions with light irradiation.BDPY‐4andBDPY‐5showed moderate phototoxic properties on light irradiation.
A general fractional model of creep response for polymer materials: Simulation and model comparison
Authors: Gao Yunfei , Zhao Bin , Yin Deshun , Yuan Lili
Published: August 2021

The creep deformation of polymer materials is a major concern to ensure the safety and reliability of structural designed parts. In this work, a novel fractional creep model is established by introducing the superb Almeida‐Caputo fractional derivative into the traditional viscoelastic constitutive equation. The kernel function is determined by conducting several simulations of uniaxial creep tests, making it more flexible and reliable to provide excellent description of creep deformation. Compared to the traditional fractional model, the proposed model exhibits higher accuracy and better performance, and is found to have the ability to depict the nonlinear time‐varying characteristic at accelerated creep stage. Furthermore, the physical significance of fractional order is explored by performing the sensitivity analysis of model parameters, the results revel that the order is closely associated with the evolution of material properties where the diagrams of creep deformation of polymer materials under elevated temperature and stress levels could be mirrored by the variation of fractional order.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Development after the emergence of a chemokine for neutrophils in the synovium
Authors: Katayama Hiroshi
Published: August 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may not be a multifactorial disease; it can be hypothesized that RA is developed through a series of events following a triggering event, which is the emergence of a chemokine for neutrophils in the synovium. IL‐17A, secreted by infiltrated neutrophils, stimulates synoviocytes to produce CCL20, which attracts various CCR6‐expressing cells, including Th17 cells. Monocytes (macrophages) appear after neutrophil infiltration according to the natural course of inflammation and secrete IL‐1β and TNFα. Then, IL‐17A, IL‐1β, and TNFα stimulate synoviocytes to produce CCL20, amplifying the inflammation. Varieties of chemokines secreted by infiltrating cells accumulate in the synovium and induce synoviocyte proliferation by binding to the corresponding G protein‐coupled receptors, thus expanding the synovial tissue. CCL20 in this tissue attracts circulating monocytes that express both CCR6 and receptor activator of NF‐κB (RANK), which differentiate into osteoclasts in the presence of RANKL. In this way, pannus is formed, and bone destruction begins.
A chemiluminescence sensor array for discrimination of seven toxicants
Authors: Zhou Ziqi , Gong Yige , Zhang Chao , Niu Weifen
Published: August 2021

A chemiluminescence (CL) sensor array was developed based on 11 CL systems cross‐combined by three luminescence reagents and four oxidants. Using the CL sensor array, we measured seven toxicants, including morphine, ketamine, diazepam, chlorpromazine, strychnine, paraquat, and fenpropathrin, which represent psychotropic drugs, sedatives and hypnotics, rodenticides, herbicides, and insecticides, respectively. The CL response pattern or ‘fingerprints’ were obtained for a given compound on the sensor array and then discriminated through principal component analysis. The established sensor array has been applied to real‐life samples and the results showed that it possesses excellent discrimination.
Stakeholder pressure and greenhouses gas voluntary disclosures
Authors: Chithambo Lyton , Tauringana Venancio , Tingbani Ishmael , Achiro Laura
Published: August 2021

This paper reports managers' perceived importance of various stakeholders' pressure in their greenhouse gas (GHG) disclosure decisions. We also report on which stakeholders explain the variation in the extent of GHG disclosures. Further, evidence of how firm size moderates the relationship between some stakeholders and GHG disclosure is provided. Data were obtained through a mail survey of the United Kingdom's FTSE 100 listed firms, to which 62 firms responded. GHG disclosures within the respondents' annual reports were scored, and regression analysis was undertaken to determine if a relationship existed between actual GHG disclosures and the rating assigned to the stakeholders. The results indicate that the provider stakeholder group (shareholders, investors and community) is perceived to have the most significant influence on managers' GHG disclosure decisions, followed by government regulators, organisational (employee, customers and suppliers) stakeholders and social (competitors, NGOs and media) stakeholders, respectively. Regression results show a positive and significant relationship between perceived organisational and regulatory stakeholder pressure and actual GHG disclosures. However, the relationship between providers and social stakeholders and GHG disclosure is not significant. The findings further suggest that the relationships between organisational and regulatory pressure are moderated by firm size. The results have important implications for policymakers.
M1 macrophage‐derived exosomes aggravate bone loss in postmenopausal osteoporosis via a microRNA‐98/DUSP1/JNK axis
Authors: Yu Long , Hu Ming , Cui Xu , Bao Da , Luo Zhanpeng , Li Dawei , Li Litao , Liu Ning , Wu Yunfeng , Luo Xiaobo , Ma Yuanzheng
Published: August 2021

Macrophages (Mφs) are master regulators of the immune response and may serve as therapeutic targets in aging societies. This study aimed to determine the function of M1Mφ‐exosomes (Exos) in the development of osteoporosis (OP) and the involvement of microRNA (miR)‐98 and dual specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1). A murine model of OP was established using ovariectomies (OVX). Bone loss was observed in OVX‐treated mice, as manifested by reduced bone mineral density and decreased number of bone trabecula. The bone loss was further aggravated by treatment with M1Mφ‐Exos. Exos also suppressed osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells. miRNA microarray analysis revealed that the miR‐98 level was notably upregulated in cells after Exo treatment, and DUSP1 was confirmed as a target of miR‐98. Meanwhile, downregulation of miR‐98 or upregulation of DUSP1 restored the osteogenic differentiation ability of MC3T3‐E1 cells. In addition, upregulation of DUSP1 reduced bone loss in murine bone tissues and suppressed JNK phosphorylation. In summary, M1Mφ‐derived exosomal miR‐98 exacerbates bone loss and OP by downregulating DUSP1 and activating the JNK signaling pathway. miR‐98 may therefore serve as a therapeutic target in OP management.
Percutaneous atrial septal defect occlusion through thrombosed inferior vena cava filter
Authors: Rakotonoel Radotseheno Rolland , Rioufol Gilles , Uhlrich William , Derimay François
Published: August 2021

Thrombosed inferior vena cava (IVC) should not be considered as a limitation to femoral access for cardiac structural procedures. Reopening by angioplasty in the same procedural step is feasible and safe.
Usefulness of simultaneous measurement of brain and muscle regional oxygen saturation in shock patients: A report of three cases
Authors: Muratsu Arisa , Hirose Tomoya , Ohnishi Mitsuo , Tachino Jotaro , Nakao Shunichiro , Takegawa Ryosuke , Sakai Tomohiko , Shiozaki Tadahiko , Shimazu Takeshi
Published: August 2021

The regional oxygen saturation (rSO₂) values of brain and muscle tissues can be measured simultaneously even if blood pressure cannot be measured due to circulatory failure associated with shock and may continuously reflect the oxygen supply‐demand balance.
NCoCu Carbon Dots Intertwined NiCo Double Hydroxide Nanorod Array for Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Jin Jie , Chen Zhiqiang , Zhang Yi , Qu Hongxia , Wan Changwu , Zhu Tenglong , Zhong Qin
Published: August 2021

Electrocatalytic production of hydrogen from water is a faster and environmentally friendly way of producing bulk hydrogen with the highest purity. Herein, a highly efficient mesh‐like cobalt hydroxide self‐supporting catalyst coupled with NCoCu‐5 carbon dots (CDs) on Ni foam (NF) is reported by a common hydrothermal way. The type of carbon dots on NiCo double hydroxide has a great effect on the morphology of the catalyst (NCoCu‐5 CDs/NF−CoNi). The intertwined mesh‐like NCoCu‐5 CDs/NF−CoNi catalyst has an excellent HER performance, exhibiting a low overpotential of 65 mV at 10 mA cm−2. After coupling with NCoCu‐5 CDs, a new Co−N electronic transfer channel is created in composite, and a suitable electronic environment is produced between Co and NCoCu‐5 CDs. Copper cations react with NF to generate Cu+ intermediate ions, thus further promoting the formation of Co3+. It supplies a high‐speed charge channel for the transmission of ions and increases the active sites.
Unveiling Organocatalysts Action – Investigating Immobilized Catalysts at Steady‐State Operation via Lab‐on‐a‐Chip Technology
Authors: Westphal Hannes , Warias Rico , Becker Holger , Spanka Matthias , Ragno Daniele , Gläser Roger , Schneider Christoph , Massi Alessandro , Belder Detlev
Published: August 2021

This paper reports a new method for studying stereoselective catalyzed reactions at a small scale. For this purpose, a micro‐sized chemical reactor and a chiral chromatographic column were integrated on a single microfluidic chip hyphenated to mass spectrometry. By running the integrated reactor in truly continuous‐flow operation with an automated injection strategy, catalytic processes and their stereoselectivity can be observed over an extended range of time with significantly small consumption of samples, solvents, and catalytic material.
The Dual Effect of Coordinating −NH Groups and Light in the Electrochemical CO2 Reduction with Pyridylamino Co Complexes
Authors: Fernández Sergio , Cañellas Santiago , Franco Federico , Luis Josep M. , Pericàs Miquel À. , Lloret‐Fillol Julio
Published: August 2021

CO2 electroreduction could be improved by applying conceptualized strategies to overcome catalytic bottlenecks. In this regard, we report two new cobalt(II) complexes [Co(Py2RN3)(OTf)](OTf) (CoR, R=H, Me) based on a new C2‐symmetric pentacoordinate chiral ligand that are active on the electrochemical CO2 reduction to CO. One of the complexes has a N−H group oriented towards the CO2 binding site (CoH), while the other has a N−Me group with the same orientation (CoMe), as showed by X‐ray diffraction. We have studied the effect of introducing hydrogen bonding sites, i. e. N−H in CoH, as a strategy to stabilize reaction intermediates. The complex bearing coordinating unprotected N−H group (CoH) displays catalytic CO2 reduction at the CoII/I redox potential (−1.9 V vs. Fc, ca. 40 % FYCO) whereas CoMe shows CO2 reduction at the CoI/0 redox pair. FTIR‐SEC and DFT calculations identified a [CoI−CO]+ cation as catalytic intermediate. The beneficial effect of the N−H group has been attributed to the stabilization of reaction intermediates or transition states and by the larger electron‐donating capacity, thus enhancing the nucleophilic character of the CoI intermediate. The study also points to the CO dissociation from the Co(I)−CO resting state intermediate as one of the bottlenecks of the catalytic cycle, which can be overcome with light irradiation, resulting in an increase of the total CO production (−1.9 V, 81 % FYCO, 11.2 TONCO) at the CoII/I redox potential.
Investigating the Effect of the Initial Valence States of Copper on CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Wu Minfang , Dong Xiao , Chen Wei , Chen Aohui , Zhu Chang , Feng Guanghui , Li Guihua , Song Yanfang , Wei Wei , Sun Yuhan
Published: August 2021

Abstract: The valence states of copper always play an important role for the most studied copper‐based catalysts in CO2 electroreduction (CO2ERR). In this work, distinct Cu, Cu2O, and CuO nanoparticles with similar particle size on active carbon are synthesized via carbonthermal reduction. Although all CuOx nanoparticles are reduced to metallic Cu during CO2ERR, their different initial valence states result in particle‐size variations and different CO2ERR performances. Cu nanoparticles in Cu/C evolve into smaller particles, while those derived from Cu2O/C and CuO/C agglomerate into larger ones. The optimal CO production potential of CO drops with decreasing particle size and is as low as −0.7 V (vs. the eversible hydrogen electrode) on Cu/C. Furthermore, Cu nanoparticles in Cu/C expose much more active sites with higher electrochemical active area and stronger CO adsorption, which further promote C−C coupling to produce C2+ products while inhibiting competitive hydrogen evolution.
Effect of Arylmethylene Substitutions on Molecular Structure, Optoelectronic Properties and Photovoltaic Performance of Dithienocyclopentafluorene‐Based Small‐Molecule Acceptors
Authors: Tang Xuejiao , Liao Haitao , Zheng Tao , Yin Pan , Cao Jing , Zeng Xiaoying , Weng Chao , Shen Ping
Published: August 2021

Two dithienocyclopentafluorene‐based small‐molecule acceptors (SMAs) were developed that feature methylene‐functionalized conjugated side chains, to study the effect of arylmethylene substitution and its number on structure, optoelectronic properties and device performance. Results showed that two SMAs have better absorption properties and planarity, lower bandgaps and higher LUMOs compared with the control SMA without conjugated side chains. The synthesized SMAs were tested in polymer solar cells for examples of their applicability. This work argues that the introduction of methylene‐functionalized conjugated side chains has great potential in tuning molecular structure, optoelectronic properties, device physics and photovoltaic performance of SMAs.
C4’‐Fluorinated Oligodeoxynucleotides: Synthesis, Stability, Structural Studies
Authors: Zhou Yifei , Lu Kuan , Li Qiang , Fan Chaochao , Zhou Chuanzheng
Published: August 2021

Fluoro‐substitution on the ribose moiety (e. g., 2’‐F‐deoxyribonucleotide) represents a popular way to modulate the ribose conformation and, hence, the structure and function of nucleic acids. In the present study, we synthesized 4’‐F‐deoxythymidine (4’‐FT) and introduced it to oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs). Though scission of the glycosylic bond of 4’‐FT followed by strand cleavage occurred to some extent under alkaline conditions, the 4’‐FT‐modified ODNs were rather stable in neutral buffers. NMR studies showed that like 2’‐F‐deoxyribonucleoside, 4’‐FT exists predominantly in the North conformation not only in the nucleoside form but also in the context of ODN strands. Circular dichroism spectroscopy, thermal denaturing and RNase H1 footprinting studies of 4’‐FT‐modified ODN/cDNA and ODN/cRNA duplexes indicated that the North conformation tendency of 4’‐FT is maintained in the duplexes, leading to a local structural perturbation. Collectively, 4’‐F‐deoxyribonucleotide structurally resembles the 2’‐F‐deoxyribonucleotide but imparts less structural perturbation to the duplex than the latter.
Elevated serum lipoprotein(a) is significantly associated with angiographic progression of coronary artery disease
Authors: Shui Xing , Wen Zheqi , Chen Zefeng , Xie Xujing , Wu Yongxia , Zheng Binghan , Wu Zhen , Chen Lin
Published: August 2021

Background

Lipoprotein(a)[Lp(a)] has been considered as an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). The present study aimed to evaluate the association between baseline serum Lp(a) and CAD progression determined by angiographic score.

Methods

A total of 814 patients who had undergone two or more coronary computed tomography angiography at least 6 months apart were consecutively enrolled and the coronary severity was determined by the Gensini score system. Patients were stratified into two groups according to Lp(a)>300 mg/L and Lp(a) ≤ 300 mg/L or classified as “progressors” and “non‐progressors” based on the Gensini score rate of change per year. The association of continuous Lp(a) and Lp(a)>300 mg/L with CAD progression were respectively assessed by logistic regression analysis. Moreover, further evaluation of those association was performed in subgroups of the study population.

Results

Patients in the “progressors” group had significant higher Lp(a) levels. Furthermore, the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that elevated Lp(a) (odds ratio [OR]: 1.451, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.177–1.789, p<.001) and Lp(a)>300 mg/L (OR:1.642, 95% CI:1.018–2.649, p = .042) were positively associated with CAD progression after adjusting for confounding factors. In addition, those relation seemed to be more prominent in subjects with lower body mass index (OR: 1.880, 95% CI: 1.224–2.888, p for interaction = .060).

Conclusions

Elevated baseline serum Lp(a) is positively and independently associated with angiographic progression of CAD, particularly in participants with relatively low body mass index. Therefore, Lp(a) could be a potent risk factor for CAD progression, assisting in early risk stratification in cardiovascular patients.
Usefulness of a novel transarterial chemoinfusion plus external‐beam radiation therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombi in the inferior vena cava and right atrium: Case study
Authors: Shirono Tomotake , Koga Hironori , Niizeki Takashi , Nagamatsu Hiroaki , Iwamoto Hideki , Shimose Shigeo , Nakano Masahito , Okamura Shusuke , Noda Yu , Kamachi Naoki , Kuromatsu Ryoko , Ogo Etsuyo , Torimura Takuji
Published: August 2021

Background

Invasion beyond inferior vena cava (IVC) to right atrium (RA) is a rare complication in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and results in fatal oncologic emergencies, including pulmonary embolism and right heart failure.

Aim

As there is no gold standard treatment for unresectable HCC with tumor thrombi involving IVC and RA, we considered it valuable to assess safety and efficacy of a combination of hepatic arterial infusion chemoembolization (HAIC) therapy and external‐beam radiation therapy (EBRT).

Methods and results

The “New FP” was chosen as the HAIC therapy, in which the enhanced permeation and retention effect was achieved using a cisplatin‐Lipiodol suspension combined with continuous infusion of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU). Sixteen patients with HCC with tumor thrombi in IVC, RA, and pulmonary arteries were enrolled. modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors‐based evaluation of response to the combination treatment was as follows: complete response, 6.2% (1 patient); partial response, 81.3% (13 patients); stable disease, 12.5% (2 patients); progressive disease, 0%. The median overall survival time (MST) was 19.0 months. Notably, MST of patients receiving sequential sorafenib monotherapy (39.0 months) was significantly longer than that of the rest (15.3 months).

Conclusion

The combination of New FP and EBRT is an efficacious treatment option for unresectable HCC involving IVC and RA, complicated with pulmonary embolism. Sequential administration of molecular‐targeted drugs may prolong survival in such patients.
A parallel hash‐based method for local sequence alignment
Authors: Esmat Aghaee‐Meybodi , Amin Nezarat , Sima Emadi , Reza Ghaffari Mohammad
Published: August 2021

Algorithms utilize an index‐based aligning strategy, like a hash table, which typically entails the seed‐and‐extend method and is a time‐consuming task. Here, we developed a hash‐based search algorithm based on the SSAHA method without the use of seed‐and‐extend to conduct search and alignment faster than previous methods with multiple processors. In the proposed method by using the overlapping method in query and reference sequences, the accuracy and sensitivity increased. Further, the speed also increased by creating a hash table for the reference sequence when it was placed in the memory. Furthermore, by evaluating three datasets of different sequences in size and volumes, the effect of the created piece lengths as well as the effect of multiple processors on each dataset was evaluated indicating not only appeasing the time issue in alignment but also improving the mapping speed compared to the BLAST and SSAHA algorithms.
Requirement of Jasmonate signaling for defense responses against Alternaria alternata and Phytophthora nicotiane in tobacco
Authors: Long Jingyu , Yang Mao , Zuo Cailian , Song Na , He Jun‐Min , Zeng Jianmin , Wu Jinsong
Published: August 2021

Alternaria alternata and Phytophthora nicotianae are two major necrotrophic pathogens of tobacco. It is currently unknown whether they elicit the same suite of defense responses and whether jasmonate (JA) signaling plays an important role in the defense response of cultivated tobacco against these two pathogens. During transcriptome analysis, we found some conserved defense responses in the flue‐cured tobacco cultivar K326 against A. alternata and P. nicotianae. Of the top 20 significantly enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, eight were shared in ‘K326’ plants inoculated with A. alternata or P. nicotianae; these included the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and the sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis pathways. Induction of expression of the genes feruloyl‐CoA 6′‐hydroxylase 1 (F6’H1), 5‐epi‐aristolochene synthase (EAS), and 5‐epi‐aristolochene hydroxylase (EAH) for biosynthesis of the phytoalexins scopoletin (F6’H1) and capsidiol (EAS and EAH) was further confirmed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and they are representative genes of phenylpropanoid and sesquiterpenoid pathways. Further analysis showed that the levels of JA and JA‐Ile, and transcripts of allene oxide cyclase (AOC), the key enzyme gene for JA biosynthesis, were also significantly induced by both pathogens in ‘K326.’ Plants silenced for either AOC or Coronatine Insensitive 1 (COI1), the gene encoding the JA‐Ile receptor, were highly susceptible to infection by both pathogens. Taken together, our results show that defense responses, especially the activation of the pathways for biosynthesis of the phytoalexins scopoletin and capsidiol, are conserved in N. attenuata and cultivated tobacco infected by A. alternata and P. nicotianae, and provided compelling evidence for the role of JA signaling in the defense against these two pathogens.