bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastrostomy Tube for Nutrition and Malignant Bowel Obstruction in Patients With Cancer
Authors: Gauvin Gabrielle , Do-Nguyen Chi Chi , Lou Johanna , O’Halloran Eileen Anne , Selesner Leigh T. , Handorf Elizabeth , Collins Molly E. , Farma Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2021

Background: Gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are invaluable clinical tools that play a role in palliation and nutrition in patients with cancer. This study aimed to better understand the risks and benefits associated with the placement and maintenance of G-tubes. Methods: Patients who underwent placement of a G-tube for cancer from January 2013 through December 2017 at a tertiary care center were considered for inclusion. Clinical data were retrospectively collected from medical records. Results: A total of 242 patients with cancer, whose average age at diagnosis was 61 years (range, 21–94 years), underwent G-tube placement for nutrition (76.4%), decompression (22.7%), or both (0.8%). Successful insertion was achieved in 96.8%, but 8 patients required >1 attempted method of insertion. In the decompression group, minor postplacement complications were less common (23.6% vs 53.5%; P<.001) and survival was shorter (P<.001) compared with the nutrition group. For those with decompressive G-tubes, 45.5% had a palliative care consult; 56.4% were seen by social workers; and 46.3% went to hospice. The frequency of hospice discharge was higher in patients who had consults (53.7% vs 23.1%; P=.01). Conclusions: Half of the patients who received decompressive G-tubes presented with stage IV disease and died within 1 month of placement. Those with >1 consult were more likely to be discharged to hospice. Patients with G-tubes for nutrition saw no change in functionality, complication rate, or survival, regardless of adjunct chemotherapy status. These findings illustrate the need for a tool to allow a better multidisciplinary approach and interventional decision-making for patients with cancer.
Deling av kunnskap og kompetanse er ingen selvfølge for deltakere i Yrkesfaglærerløftet
Authors: Morud Elin Bø , Rokkones Klara Lillevik
Published: January 2021

Hensikten med studien er å utvikle ny kunnskap om og forståelse for yrkesfaglærere som tar videreutdanning. Artikkelen presenterer hvordan yrkesfaglærerne opplever at forsknings- og utviklingskompetanse som de opparbeider seg gjennom videreutdanningen bidrar til utvikling av skolens profesjonelle læringsfellesskap og skolen som en lærende organisasjon. Forskning gir god dokumentasjon av hvilke faktorer som fremmer utvikling av profesjonelle læringsfellesskap. Studien undersøker om videreutdanningsstudentene erfarer at disse faktorene er tilstede, slik at de kan involveres i og får bidra til utvikling av skolens profesjonelle læringsfellesskap. Våre erfaringer tilsier at det ikke er en selvfølge at deltakerne på videreutdanning deler sine erfaringer med kollegaer og ledelse på skolene de representerte. Dette er tilfelle til tross for at deling er en viktig forutsetning for å utvikle profesjonelle læringsfellesskap i skolen. Studien belyser også spørsmålet om hvilke samarbeidsrelasjoner studentene etablerer gjennom FoU-arbeid og hvordan dette bidrar til kompetanseutvikling i læringsfellesskapet. Artikkelen gir innsikt i hvilken støtte og forankring utviklingsprosjekter får i kollegiet og i skolens ledelse.

Studien tar utgangspunkt i videreutdanninger i Yrkesfaglærerløftet, og datagrunnlaget omfatter fire fokusgruppeintervju med yrkesfaglærere. I intervjuene spør vi om hvilke erfaringer de har med FoU ved egen skole, og hvordan de samarbeider og deler ny kompetanse og kunnskap med ledelsen, kollegaer og andre samarbeidspartnere. Funnene viser et stort samsvar mellom studentenes erfaringer i hvilke faktorer som er viktige for å utvikle profesjonelle læringsfellesskap. I tillegg ser vi et stort samsvar med de faktorene som forskning og litteratur legger vekt på fremmer utvikling av profesjonelle læringsfellesskap og skoleutvikling. I artikkelen diskuterer vi hvordan funnene i vår studie er koblet til funn i tidligere studier.
Biochemical characterization and inhibition of thermolabile hemolysin fromVibrio parahaemolyticusby phenolic compounds
Authors: Vazquez-Morado Luis E. , Robles-Zepeda Ramon E. , Ochoa-Leyva Adrian , Arvizu-Flores Aldo A. , Garibay-Escobar Adriana , Castillo-Yañez Francisco , Lopez-zavala Alonso A.
Published: January 2021

Vibrio parahaemolyticus(Vp), a typical microorganism inhabiting marine ecosystems, uses pathogenic virulence molecules such as hemolysins to cause bacterial infections of both human and marine animals. The thermolabile hemolysinVpTLH lyses human erythrocytes by a phospholipase B/A2 enzymatic activity in egg-yolk lecithin. However, few studies have been characterized the biochemical properties and the use ofVpTLH as a molecular target for natural compounds as an alternative to controlVpinfection. Here, we evaluated the biochemical and inhibition parameters of the recombinantVpTLH using enzymatic and hemolytic assays and determined the molecular interactions by in silico docking analysis. The highest enzymatic activity was at pH 8 and 50 °C, and it was inactivated by 20 min at 60 °C with Tm = 50.9 °C. Additionally, the flavonoids quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate, and morin inhibited theVpTLH activity with IC50 values of 4.5 µM, 6.3 µM, and 9.9 µM, respectively; while phenolics acids were not effective inhibitors for this enzyme. Boltzmann and Arrhenius equation analysis indicate thatVpTLH is a thermolabile enzyme. The inhibition of both enzymatic and hemolytic activities by flavonoids agrees with molecular docking, suggesting that flavonoids could interact with the active site’s amino acids. Future research is necessary to evaluate the antibacterial activity of flavonoids againstVpin vivo.
DoesDrosophila sechelliaescape parasitoid attack by feeding on a toxic resource?
Authors: Salazar-Jaramillo Laura , Wertheim Bregje
Published: January 2021

Host shifts can drastically change the selective pressures that animals experience from their environment.Drosophila sechelliais a species restricted to the Seychelles islands, where it specializes on the fruitMorinda citrifolia(noni). This fruit is known to be toxic to closely relatedDrosophilaspecies, includingD. melanogasterandD. simulans, releasingD. sechelliafrom interspecific competition when breeding on this substrate. Previously, we showed that larvae ofD. sechelliaare unable to mount an effective immunological response against wasp attack, while larvae of closely-related species can defend themselves from parasitoid attack by melanotic encapsulation. We hypothesized that this inability constitutes a trait loss due to a reduced risk of parasitoid attack in noni. Here we present a lab experiment and field survey aimed to test the hypothesis that specialization on noni has releasedD. sechelliafrom the antagonistic interaction with its larval parasitoids. Our results from the lab experiment suggest that noni may be harmful to parasitoid wasps. Our results from the field survey indicate thatD. sechelliawas found in ripe noni, whereas anotherDrosophilaspecies,D. malerkotliana, was present in unripe and overripe stages. Parasitic wasps of the speciesLeptopilina boulardiemerged from overripe noni, whereD. malerkotlianawas the most abundant host, but not from ripe noni. These results indicate that the specialization ofD. sechelliaon noni has indeed drastically altered its ecological interactions, leading to a relaxation in the selection pressure to maintain parasitoid resistance.
Public Perceptions of Cupping Therapy (Hijama) and Whether It Will Be Chosen Over Donating Blood
Authors: Alshareef Abdulraheem , Albeladi Abdulrahman Amer , Alsaedi Ahmad Khalaf , Alnakhli Ahmad Abdulaziz , AlHejili Raed Saad
Published: January 2021

Background: Modern medicine, despite its great advances, still not as effective as cupping therapy in treating many medical conditions.

Objective: To assess the level of awareness and the general perceptions about cupping therapy (Hijama) in the Saudi population.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 1120 adult subjects (473 males and 647 females), during the period from January to March 2020. Participants responded to an anonymous self-administered questionnaire requesting information about their knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of cupping therapy. The data collected from 1120 questionnaires were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods in two stages (descriptive analysis - analysis of the study hypotheses). The frequencies and percentages of the descriptive analysis and the primary data of the study sample were calculated and the responses of its members to the questions included in the questionnaire were determined. The study hypotheses were analyzed using the chi-squared test to study the independence of the variables under study. The analysis was done using (IBM SPSS Statistics 25.0) software.

Results: About 32% of the participants underwent cupping before and the majority of them performed wet cupping (82.2%) and felt light pain (55.6%). Almost 60% of all participants were afraid of cupping and this fear was mainly from the injury (37%). The percentage of those who prefer to donate their blood was 72% while only 28% choose to perform cupping. There were statistically significant relationships between the gender of the participants and cupping procedure (p=0.003), fear of performing it (p<0.001) and preference for cupping over donating blood (p=0.002). Similarly, there were statistically significant relationships (p<0.001) between the age of the participants and cupping procedure, fear of performing it and preference for cupping over donating blood.

Conclusion: This study showed the high knowledge, attitudes and perception of the Saudi population towards wet cupping therapy. Importantly, most of the surveyed population, especially younger ones, choose to donate their blood rather than performing wet cupping. Further research is needed to establish a collaboration platform between wet cupping clinics and blood banks to fill the gap of frequent shortage of blood units.
Exploring Beliefs and Preferences for Reducing Sedentary Behavior Among Adults With Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis or Knee Replacement
Authors: Powell Sara M. , Larsen Chelsea A. , Phillips Siobhan M. , Pellegrini Christine A.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Physical activity has numerous benefits for those with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (KOA) or knee replacement, yet many individuals engage in insufficient activity. The purpose of this study was to explore beliefs about sedentary behavior, barriers to standing, and program preferences for adults with symptomatic KOA or knee replacement.

Methods

Forty‐two individuals ≥50 years with symptomatic KOA or knee replacement completed an online survey assessing current knee pain and function, sitting time, physical activity participation, beliefs about sedentary behavior, and preferences for a sedentary reduction program.

Results

Participants indicated barriers to standing were pain, discomfort, or working on a computer. Most participants shared interest to participate in a program to reduce sitting time. Participants chose education, self‐monitoring, and activity tracking as most preferable components for an intervention design.

Conclusion

Future interventions to reduce sedentary time may utilize these results to tailor programs for those with symptomatic KOA or knee replacement.
Fungicide, insecticide, and foliar fertilizer effect on soybean yield, seed composition, and canopy retention
Authors: Bergman Kelsey , Ciampitti Ignacio , Sexton Peter , Kovács Péter
Published: January 2021

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield has increased over time through the introduction of new varieties and improved agronomic practices. However, seed protein concentration has decreased. We conducted field studies in 2018 and 2019 to investigate the effects of fungicide, insecticide, and foliar fertilizer application on grain yield and seed quality in two soybean maturity groups (MG). In‐season treatments targeted nutrient availability and soybean canopy duration during the seed‐filling period by fungicide, insecticide, or foliar fertilizer application at the onset of this period. Biomass samples were collected at R5, R6, and R7 and partitioned into plant parts. Year, location, and MG often influenced yield and seed composition, but foliar fungicide, insecticide, or fertilizer application had no impact on these parameters.
Identification of the first promoter‐specific gain‐of‐function SOX9 missense variant (p.E50K) in a patient with 46,XX ovotesticular disorder of sex development
Authors: Ushijima Kikumi , Ogawa Yuya , Terao Miho , Asakura Yumi , Muroya Koji , Hayashi Mie , Ishii Tomohiro , Hasegawa Tomonobu , Sekido Ryohei , Fukami Maki , Takada Shuji , Narumi Satoshi
Published: January 2021

SOX9, a transcription factor, is expressed in the undifferentiated XX and XY gonads. SRY induces significant upregulation of SOX9 expression in XY gonads. Loss‐of‐function SOX9 variants cause testicular dysgenesis in 46,XY patients, while duplication of the total gene or the upstream regulatory region results in testicular development in 46,XX patients. However, gain‐of‐function (GoF) SOX9 variants have not been reported previously. We report the case of a 16‐year‐old female patient with a 46,XX karyotype who had masculinized external genitalia and unilateral ovotestis. Next‐generation sequencing‐based genetic screening for disorders of sex development led to the identification of a novel SOX9 variant (p.Glu50Lys), transmitted from the phenotypically normal father. Expression analysis showed that E50K‐SOX9 enhanced transactivation of the luciferase reporter containing the testis enhancer sequence core element compared with that containing the wildtype‐SOX9. This GoF activity was not observed in the luciferase reporter containing Amh, the gene for anti‐Müllerian hormone. We genetically engineered female mice (Sox9E50K/E50K), and they showed no abnormalities in the external genitalia or ovaries. In conclusion, a novel SOX9 variant with a promoter‐specific GoF activity was identified in vitro; however, the disease phenotype was not recapitulated by the mouse model. At present, the association between the GoF SOX9 variant and the ovotestis phenotype remains unclear. Future studies are needed to verify the possible association.
Regioselective and Redox‐Neutral Cp*IrIII‐Catalyzed Allylic C−H Alkynylation
Authors: Mondal Shobhan , Pinkert Tobias , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Glorius Frank
Published: January 2021

Herein, we report a Cp*IrIII‐catalyzed highly regioselective and redox‐neutral protocol for the construction of 1,4‐enynes from unactivated olefins and bromoalkynes via intermolecular allylic C−H alkynylation. The developed mild reaction conditions tolerate a broad range of common functional groups, even enabling selective alkynylation of allylic C−H bonds in the presence of other prominent directing groups. Mechanistic experiments including the isolation of a catalytically active IrIII‐allyl species support an intermolecular allylic C−H activation followed by an electrophilic alkynylation.
Novel 4,5‐Dinitro‐N,N′‐dialkylimidazolium Cations as Candidates for High‐energy Materials
Authors: Kim Namtae , Lee Byeongil , Song Mingyu , Jang Sewook , Kwon Kuktae , Kim Seunghee , Kim Young Gyu
Published: January 2021

In the synthesis of energetic ionic liquids (EILs), the quaternization of dinitroimidazoles remains a challenging task due to their reduced nucleophilicity. In this study, two new EILs precursors, 3‐ethyl‐1‐methyl‐4,5‐dinitro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium tetrafluoroborate (1) and 1,3‐diethyl‐4,5‐dinitro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium tetrafluoroborate (2) were obtained via the alkylation of 1‐methyl‐4,5‐dinitro‐1H‐imidazole and 4,5‐dinitro‐1H‐imidazole using Meerwein's reagents, respectively. The 4,5‐dinitroimidazolium cations are expected to be applied for new insensitive high‐energy materials (HEMs) via an anion metathesis reaction with energetic anions. Two new EILs, 3‐ethyl‐1‐methyl‐4,5‐dinitro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium 2,4,5‐trinitroimidazol‐1‐ide (3) and 1,3‐diethyl‐4,5‐dinitro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium 2,4,5‐trinitroimidazol‐1‐ide (4), were obtained as potential HEMs via the anion metathesis reaction with 2,4,5‐trinitroimidazol‐1‐ide. Although some improvements in the thermal properties are desired, compound 3 showed the promising properties as a new insensitive HEM because of its excellent insensitivity and more powerful explosive performance than those of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT).
Country diagnostics for low carbon development: Can developing countries pursue simultaneous implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement?
Authors: Kobayakawa Toru
Published: January 2021

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the 2030 Development Agenda and the Paris Agreement, both agreed in 2015, call for the world to simultaneously address development and climate change. Some researchers argue that the SDGs put more emphasis on the value of economic growth, and if so, it would pose a challenging situation, especially to developing countries considering the nexus among economic growth, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions. In order to understand to what extent the SDGs advancement accompanies CO2 emissions increase, a study is needed to investigate development pathways of various countries during the past decades. This study aims to empirically identify well‐performing countries, in terms of both the SDGs implementation and CO2 emission mitigations, and investigate causes of the difference from the others through the decomposition analysis. The results confirm a good number of well‐performers, particularly among the Latin American and the transition countries. It is found that well‐targeted policy interventions for expanding the essential public services such as health, education, energy, water, and sanitation, are effective for advancing the SDGs. The decomposition analysis shows that the countries which made significant advancements in the SDGs had tangible positive economic growth effects on their per‐capita CO2 emissions. But if policy attention is paid to reduce the energy and carbon intensities, especially in the energy‐intensive sectors, such as the industry, energy, and transport sectors, the increases of per‐capita CO2 emissions can be minimized. Proper private sector engagements are considered effective to this end.
Investigation of consumers' cross‐channel switching intentions: A push‐pull‐mooring approach
Authors: Haridasan Anu C. , Fernando Angeline G. , Balakrishnan Saju
Published: January 2021

This research develops and tests a model on cross‐channel switching intentions using the PPM framework. Four hundred and fifty‐six valid responses were collected from online and in‐person survey. The proposed relationships were tested using structural equation modelling. The results confirmed the positive influence of push (extent of external information search) and pull (alternative attractiveness) factors on switching intention in the cross‐channel context. The study also showed that higher multichannel self‐efficacy and lower switching costs significantly increased the pull effect. However, the effect of multichannel self‐efficacy on the push factor differed for online and offline consumers. Additionally, the results confirm that product fit uncertainty and purchase involvement significantly influenced the extent of information search. The study makes recommendations that can aid retail managers minimise the impact of push and pull variables. Information provision and merchandising strategies can dissuade highly involved consumers from searching extensively. Similarly, selective lock‐in strategies can reduce the attractions of alternative channels. This work contributes to the growing body of studies that investigate the effect of information search in a multichannel context.
Immunological substrates of depressive symptoms in patients with severe obesity: An exploratory study
Authors: Stiglbauer Victoria , Gamradt Stefanie , Scherzer Marie , Brasanac Jelena , Otte Christian , Rose Matthias , Hofmann Tobias , Hinkelmann Kim , Gold Stefan M.
Published: January 2021

In this pilot study, we explored the immune phenotype of patients with severe obesity and comorbid depressive symptoms compared to non‐depressed patients with obesity and normal‐weight controls. Immune cell subsets were analysed by flow cytometry and depressive symptoms assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9). Cell frequencies were correlated with depressive symptom scores and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR). Patients with obesity and comorbid depression showed significantly lower numbers of circulating cytotoxic natural killer cells, dendritic cells and CD8+ effector memory T cells, compared to normal‐weight controls. Regulatory T cells and CD4+ central memory T cells were increased compared to non‐depressed patients with obesity and compared to normal‐weight controls, respectively. Frequencies of cytotoxic natural killer cells and CD4+ central memory T cells significantly correlated with PHQ‐9 scores, but not with WHR. Reduced numbers of dendritic cells were observed in both patient groups with obesity and correlated with PHQ‐9 scores and WHR. These findings provide evidence for an altered immune composition in comorbid obesity and depression, supporting a pathobiological overlap between the two disorders.
An Artificial Cofactor Catalyzing the Baylis‐Hillman Reaction with Designed Streptavidin as Protein Host**
Authors: Lechner Horst , Emann Vincent R. , Breuning M. , Höcker Birte
Published: January 2021

An artificial cofactor based on an organocatalyst embedded in a protein has been used to conduct the Baylis‐Hillman reaction in a buffered system. As protein host, we chose streptavidin, as it can be easily crystallized and thereby supports the design process. The protein host around the cofactor was rationally designed on the basis of high‐resolution crystal structures obtained after each variation of the amino acid sequence. Additionally, DFT‐calculated intermediates and transition states were used to rationalize the observed activity. Finally, repeated cycles of structure determination and redesign led to a system with an up to one order of magnitude increase in activity over the bare cofactor and to the most active proteinogenic catalyst for the Baylis‐Hillman reaction known today.
Outcomes of transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement among solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Elbadawi Ayman , Ugwu Justin , Elgendy Islam Y. , Megaly Michael , Ogunbayo Gbolahan O. , Omer Mohamed A. , Elzeneini Mohammed , Chatila Khaled , Al‐Azizi Karim , Goel Sachin S. , Gafoor Sameer
Published: January 2021

Background

There is a paucity of data regarding the outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) versus surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) among solid‐organ transplant recipients.

Methods

Temporal trends in hospitalizations for aortic valve replacement among solid‐organ transplant recipients were determined using the National Inpatient Sample database years 2012–2017. Propensity matching was conducted to compare admissions who underwent TAVR versus SAVR. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality.

Results

The analysis included 1,730 hospitalizations for isolated AVR; 920 (53.2%) underwent TAVR and 810 (46.7%) underwent SAVR. TAVR was increasingly utilized for solid‐organ transplant recipients (Ptrend = 0.01), while there was no change in the number of SAVR procedures (Ptrend = 0.20). The predictors of undergoing TAVR for solid‐organ transplant recipients included older age, diabetes, and prior coronary artery bypass surgery, while TAVR was less likely utilized in small‐sized hospitals. TAVR was associated with lower in‐hospital mortality after matching (0.9 vs. 4.7%, odds ratio [OR] 0.19; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11–0.35, p < .001) and after multivariable adjustment (OR 0.07; 95% CI 0.03–0.21, p < .001). TAVR was associated with lower rate of acute kidney injury, acute stroke, postoperative bleeding, blood transfusion, vascular complications, discharge to nursing facilities, and shorter median length of hospital stay. There was no difference between both groups in the use of mechanical circulatory support, hemodialysis, arrhythmias, or pacemaker insertion.

Conclusion

This contemporary observational nationwide analysis showed that TAVR is increasingly performed among solid‐organ transplant recipients. Compared with SAVR, TAVR was associated with lower in‐hospital mortality, complications, and shorter length of stay.
Sediment Microbial Fuel Cell Power Boosted by Natural Chitin Degradation and Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Salgado‐Dávalos Víctor , Osorio‐Avilés Sthefany , Kamaraj Sathish Kumar , Vega‐Alvarado Leticia , Juárez Katy , Silva‐Martínez Susana , Alvarez‐Gallegos Alberto
Published: January 2021

An economic and simple sediment microbial fuel cell (SMFC) design is evaluated to improve the recovery of energy from a river sediment, in terms of power density output (maximum power pick) normalized to the cathode surface. The organic matter content in the sediment is boosted by adding abundant, natural, and waste biomass (chitin) near the anode surface. The sluggish kinetics in the two‐electron reduction reaction of O2 at the C‐cathode is replaced with an efficient four‐electron reduction reaction at the MnO2/C cathode. Five SMFCs composed of a common carbon fabric (CF) cathode and different unmodified anode materials, such as reticulate vitreous carbon (RVC: 10, 30, and 60 pore per inch, ppi), CF and commercial stainless‐steel (SS) mesh, are evaluated. The catholyte conductivity improved with Na2SO4. The results show that the power density output increased a 100‐fold when an MnO2/CF‐cathode is used with Na2SO4 catholyte and the anolyte contained chitin. A microbial analysis of the SMFC sediment is performed. The bacterial groups identified, mainly Aminicenantia and Deltaproteobacteria, offer metabolic capacities to participate in the degradation of organic matter in the presence of chitin. Therefore, bacterial groups enriched in the anode biofilm produce electrical energy.
N‐Substituted Acridinium as a Multi‐Responsive Recognition Unit in Supramolecular Chemistry
Authors: Jacquot de Rouville Henri‐Pierre , Hu Johnny , Heitz Valérie
Published: January 2021

The N‐substituted acridinium motif is an electron‐deficient unit with appealing multi‐responsive properties which have been exploited in the field of supramolecular chemistry. This building block reversibly alters its shape, with its chemical and optical properties in response to a chemical or redox signal. In this Review, we discuss selected examples where the switchable properties of 9‐aryl‐N‐methyl‐acridinium lead to actuators, multi‐input and multi‐output systems, host or guest systems, and to interlocked systems with controllable motion.
The exclosure cage technique revisited: Pasture responses under continuous stocking and their relationship with estimates of forage accumulation in grazing experiments
Authors: Yasuoka Junior I. , Pedreira Carlos G. S. , Holschuch Solange G. , Almeida Otávio G. , Pedroso Gabriel B.
Published: January 2021

Forage accumulation (FA) is a key response in grazing experiments, and estimates of FA in continuously stocked pastures are often obtained using exclosure cages. This study evaluated how 14‐, 21‐, and 28‐d exclusion periods using cages affected morphological, physiological, and morphogenetic responses of continuously stocked ‘Mulato II’ hybrid brachiariagrass (Brachiaria spp. syn. Urochloa spp.) pastures maintained at 20‐ and 30‐cm canopy height and how this affected estimates of FA. Grazing exclusion resulted in greater rates of leaf elongation (LER; 1.62 vs. 1.37 cm tiller−1 d−1), stem elongation (SER; 0.16 vs. 0.07 cm tiller−1 d−1), leaf growth (101 vs. 86 kg dry matter [DM] ha−1 d−1), and stem growth (3.4 vs. 1.8 kg DM ha−1 d−1) inside the cages compared with outside. Greater LER resulted in greater final leaf length and leaf area index (LAI) in longer exclusion periods. With greater LAI, photosynthesis was greater within the exclosure cages than on pasture (54.5 vs. 43.9 μmol CO2 m−2 s−1). Greater leaf growth rate, together with same tiller population density and leaf senescence rate (LSR) across exclusion periods, resulted in overestimated FA by 14, 26, and 24% for 14‐, 21‐, and 28‐d exclusions, respectively. There was no effect of canopy height on FA, because greater LER and SER values in 30‐cm canopies were compensated by greater LSR. Choice of sites for cage placement by visual appraisal and reduced number of sampling sites resulted on “negative” values of calculated FA for the 14‐d exclusion, making the choice of sampling sites a major source of error in estimation of actual FA. Increasing the number of sampling sites and using indirect measurements of forage mass (FM) may increase the accuracy of FM and FA estimates.
High Capacity and Energy Density Organic Lithium‐Ion Battery Based on Buckypaper with Stable π‐Radical
Authors: Ito Hiroshi , Murata Tsuyoshi , Fujisaki Megumi , Tsuji Ryotaro , Morita Yasushi
Published: January 2021

Owing to an increasing demand on high performance and rare‐metal free energy storage systems, organic rechargeable battery has attracted much attention. To increase the capacity of the whole battery, we have fabricated coin‐type buckypaper cells composed of a trioxotriangulene neutral radical derivative (H3TOT) and single‐walled carbon nanotubes as a cathode and lithium metal plate as an anode without current collector. The cells exhibited a stable charge‐discharge behavior even at a 90 wt % H3TOT content with a high‐rate performance of 10 C originating from high electrical conductivity of H3TOT. Furthermore, based on the four‐stage redox ability of H3TOT, the H3TOT 90 wt % cathode showed a high capacity of approximately 260 mAh g−1 and a high energy density of 546 Wh g−1. In view of the simple fabrication of the cathode and excellent performance, TOT‐based buckypaper will open a new strategy for the flexible cells for next‐generation energy storages.
A Cobalt(II) Complex Bearing the Amine(imine)diphosphine PN(H)NP Ligand for Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Ketones
Authors: Huo Shangfei , Chen Hong , Zuo Weiwei
Published: January 2021

Novel chiral cobalt complex a containing amine(imine)diphosphine PN(H)NP ligand and complex b containing bis(amine)diphosphine PN(H)N(H)P ligand were synthesized. The structures of two complexes were characterized by X‐ray crystallography and high resolution mass spectrometry. The catalytic performances of cobalt complexes a and b for asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) of ketones under mild conditions were evaluated using 2‐propanolisopropanol as solvent and hydrogen source after being activated by 8 equivalents of base. Complex a showed a good reactivity for reduction of ketones, with a turnover number (TON) of up to 555, and a maximum enantiomeric excess (ee) value of up to 91 %. Complex b exhibited inertness for hydrogenation of ketones. Electronic structure studies on a and b were conducted to account for the function of ligands on the catalytic performances.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Monocyclic Homoleptic Oligophosphanes
Authors: Wellnitz Tim , Hering‐Junghans Christian
Published: January 2021

This Minireview outlines the synthesis and reactivity of homoleptic, cyclic oligophosphanes, which have been known for more than 150 years. We will discuss a variety of (PR)n (n = 3,4,5,6) species and outline approaches towards their syntheses in the first part of this review. Then the unique reactivity of these inorganic ring systems will be discussed in detail with a focus on recent findings within the last 20 years. First ring expansion reactions will be described, which are mainly restricted to cyclotriphosphanes. Secondly, ring fragmentation will be highlighted, including phosphinidene transfer reactions. Furthermore, cyclooligophosphanes can be functionalized while retaining the parent ring structures. As oligophosphanes offer multiple donor sites, in a last part the coordination chemistry of these species is highlighted. We hope that this Minireview will spark further interest in this underexplored class of compounds as reagents in inorganic and organic synthesis, as well as the design of new P‐containing materials.
InBr3‐Catalyzed Coupling Reaction between Electron‐Deficient Alkenyl Ethers with Silyl Enolates for Stereoselective Synthesis of 1,5‐Dioxo‐alk‐2‐enes
Authors: Nakao Shuichi , Saikai Miki , Nishimoto Yoshihiro , Yasuda Makoto
Published: January 2021

A coupling reaction of electron‐deficient alkenyl ethers with silyl enolates catalyzed by InBr3 was achieved. Various silyl enolates and 2‐carbonylalkenyl ethers were applicable, giving the corresponding 1,5‐dioxo‐alk‐2‐enes with perfect stereoselectivity of the alkene moieties. The present coupling reaction proceeds via the 1,4‐addition of silyl enolates to alkenyl ethers followed by elimination of silyl alkoxides, in which moderate‐Lewis acidic InBr3 performs both the activation of alkenyl ethers and the elimination of alkoxy groups regardless of the presence of various coordinative functional groups.
Fluoroalkyl‐Containing 1,2‐Disubstituted Cyclobutanes: Advanced Building Blocks for Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Demchuk Oleksandr P. , Hryshchuk Oleksandr V. , Vashchenko Bohdan V. , Trofymchuk Serhii A. , Melnykov Kostiantyn P. , Skreminskiy Artem , Volochnyuk Dmitriy M. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: January 2021

Synthesis of previously unavailable 1,2‐disubstituted cyclobutane building blocks bearing mono‐, di‐ and trifluoromethyl groups are disclosed. The key steps included deoxofluorination or TMAF‐mediated nucleophilic substitution in the appropriate bifunctional cyclobutanes; for the CF3‐substituted derivatives, alternative methods based on cyano‐ or azidotrifluoromethylation of cyclobutene using the Togni reagent II were also proposed. All methods provided trans diastereomers of the target primary amines and carboxylic acids (6 representatives) and were suitable for their multigram preparation. Furthermore, dissociation constants (pKa) and lipophilicity (logP) values were measured to evaluate the effect of the fluoroalkyl substituents on acidity/basicity and lipophilicity of the building blocks obtained.
KOt‐Bu‐Catalyzed Chemo‐ and Regioselective Hydroamination of Allylic Sulfones with Indoles
Authors: Kim Kundo , Park Subin , Lee Yunmi
Published: January 2021

A highly chemo‐ and regioselective KOt‐Bu‐catalyzed addition of substituted indoles to terminal or disubstituted allylic sulfones at the indole N‐position is reported. The catalytic protocol allows for the efficient and mild synthesis of a broad range of new and versatile sulfonyl‐substituted indoles and azoles bearing various functional groups from readily available starting materials in good to excellent yields with complete regioselectivity.
Five‐Membered Nitrogen Heterocycles Synthesis through 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of Non‐Stabilized Azomethine Ylides with 2‐Pyridone Heteroaromatic Systems as Dipolarophiles
Authors: Ben Salah Sami , Sanselme Morgane , Champavier Yves , Othman Mohamed , Daïch Adam , Chataigner Isabelle , Martin Lawson Ata
Published: January 2021

We report an efficient 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition involving non‐stabilized electron‐rich azomethine ylides and diversely substituted 2‐pyridones bearing two potential C=C dipolarophilic sites. The 1,3‐dipoles were prepared in situ under TFA catalysis and cycloadditions were studied according to the nature of the pyridones and position of the various substituents. These reactions occur under mild conditions, and lead to the expected cycloadducts in good yields and full control of the regioselectivity. Furthermore, mono‐ or biscycloadditions were performed, leading to the formation of polycyclic scaffolds bearing biologically relevant pyrrolidine rings, prevalent in natural products. The diastereoselectivity of the second cycloaddition was fully controlled by the first addition, leading to heterocycles with a trans relative stereochemistry of the two generated rings in the final tricyclo‐adduct.
Use of Perylene Diimides in Synthetic Photochemistry
Authors: Rosso Cristian , Filippini Giacomo , Prato Maurizio
Published: January 2021

Perylene diimides (PDIs) are valuable organic chromophores that stand out for their outstanding optical and redox properties. Owing to these features, PDIs have emerged as prominent dyes capable of acting as photocatalysts for numerous relevant organic transformations. This Minireview highlights the recent advances in the application of PDIs in organic photocatalysis. The various mechanistic pathways of the photo‐reduction reaction of aryl halides, recently proposed in independent studies, are discussed with an eye to unsolved challenges and forward‐looking opportunities regarding the use of PDIs within this field.
A Comprehensive Physical‐Based Sensitivity Analysis of the Electrochemical Impedance Response of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Rabissi Claudio , Innocenti Alessandro , Sordi Gabriele , Casalegno Andrea
Published: January 2021

The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) characterization technique, although widely adopted in electrochemistry for understanding operational issues and degradation, has a less consolidated physical interpretation in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), often relying on circuital methods. Herein, the Doyle–Fuller–Newman model is adapted and experimentally validated for the physical simulation of electrochemical impedance; then, it is applied in a comprehensive one‐factor‐at‐time sensitivity analysis on an impedance spectrum from 4 kHz to 0.005 Hz; 28 physical parameters, which represent the kinetic, resistive, diffusive, and geometric characteristics of the battery, are varied within broad literature‐based ranges of values, for each of the 20 analyzed battery states, characterized by different state‐of‐charge and temperature values. The results show a miscellaneous sensitivity of parameters on impedance spectra, which ranges from highly sensitive to negligible, often resulting in a strong dependence on operating conditions and impedance frequency. Such results consolidate the understanding of LIB electrochemical impedance and demonstrate that 40% of the parameters, 12 out of 28, can be considered poorly sensitive or insensitive parameters; therefore, fitting the experimental EIS data, their value can be assumed from the literature without significantly losing accuracy.
SO‐VMEC: Service offloading in virtual mobile edge computing using deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Laroui Mohammed , Ibn‐Khedher Hatem , Ali Cherif Moussa , Moungla Hassine , Afifi Hossam , Kamel Ahmed E.
Published: January 2021

Service offloading poses interesting challenges in current and next‐generation networks. The classical network optimization algorithms are still painstakingly tune heuristics to get a sufficient solution. Classical approaches use data as input in order to output near‐optimal solutions. These techniques show exponential computational time and deal only with small network scale. Therefore, we are motivated by replacing this tedious process with recent learning techniques to learn the behavior of the classical optimization algorithms while enhancing both the quality of service and satisfying the resources requirements of next‐generation applications. Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) and machine learning (ML) can improve service offloading and network caching. An optimal service offloading in virtual mobile edge computing (SO‐VMEC) use case algorithm is proposed using integer linear programming (ILP). Moreover, a service offloading protocol is presented to support the use case. We leverage software defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) concepts to control and virtualize network components. Then, a DRL‐based offloading is proposed to deal with dense Internet of Things (IoT) networks. Extensive evaluations and comparison to state of the art techniques are carried out. Results show the efficiency of the proposed algorithms in terms of service offloading, resource utilization, and networking.
Middle to Late Ordovician carbon isotope chemostratigraphy of the Lower Yangtze Platform: Implications for global correlation
Authors: Gong Fangyi , Joachimski Michael M. , Yan Guanzhou , Li Lixia , Wei Xin , Wu Rongchang
Published: January 2021

Middle to Late Ordovician carbonates were collected in South China (Anhui Province) from the Kuniutan, Datianba, and Pagoda formations in the Dingxiang and Daling sections and analysed for high‐resolution carbon isotope chemostratigraphy. An increase by 0.4‰ in δ13Ccarb is observed in the upper part of the Kuniutan Formation (Eoplacognathus pseudoplanus Biozone), representing the rising limb of the Middle Darriwilian Isotopic Carbon Excursion (MDICE). In the upper part of the Datianba Formation, positive shifts of ca. 1‰ are recorded in the studied section which compare with the carbon shifts reported in North America and Baltoscandia. A pronounced positive δ13Ccarb excursion of ca. 1.5‰ from the lower part of the Pagoda Formation can be correlated with the global Guttenberg Isotopic Carbon Excursion (GICE). The documentation of three carbon isotope shifts in this study provides new evidence for changes in the global carbon cycle from Darriwilian to Early Katian which could have been influenced by changes in global climate and primary productivity.
Can we learn lessons from the past? COVID‐19 crisis and corporate governance responses
Authors: Jebran Khalil , Chen Shihua
Published: January 2021

The coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic has seriously threatened the lives of the people. The pandemic has also threatened the survival of the firms, which has drawn the attention of policymakers and corporate governance practitioners around the world. In this study, we focus on how corporate governance practices can help firms to survive during COVID‐19 crisis. For this purpose, we take insights from prior crises by reviewing leading business journals articles and identify key corporate governance mechanisms that could potentially be effective in the ongoing COVID‐19 crisis. Our review of a large body of literature highlights several governance mechanisms that may help firms to cope with COVID‐19 crisis. These governance attributes include risk management committees, board diversity, independent directors, foreign investors, institutional ownership, ownership concentration, CEO's dual roles, block ownership, and family ownership. We provide several policy implications after reviewing the corporate governance literature. Our review illustrates that firms may be subject to at least one of the identified governance mechanisms and they may learn how these governance attributes can be effective in the COVID‐19 crisis. Our review illustrates that independent risk management committees, institutional ownership, board independence, blockholders, and family ownership are some of the essential and effective governance mechanisms compared to other governance attributes during COVID‐19 crisis.
Debt financing and technology investment Kuznets curve: Evidence from China
Authors: Shahzad Umeair , Luo Fukai , Liu Jing
Published: January 2021

The nexus of debt financing and enterprise innovation is the most arguable debate in the modern literature of corporate finance. The subject of external debts and a smooth innovative environment is one of the common puzzles for high‐tech firms. We attempt to address this puzzle and explore the impact of efficient utilization of debt on the linkage between R&D intensity and technology investment. Patent count data are used to measure enterprise innovation, therefore, negative binomial and Poisson regression is applied for empirical analysis. The estimations validate that the linkage between debt financing and corporate innovation is inverted U‐shaped which approves the Kuznets curve hypothesis. Technology firms tend to decline debt undertaking after achieving a specific level, it is assumed as an optimum debt point, higher in incremental and lower in radical innovation. The mediation role of debt financing in the linkage between R&D intensity and technology investment is negative. However, efficient debt undertaking which remains under the optimum level improves the association between R&D intensity and enterprise innovation. High‐tech firms should be cautious on external financing because abundant debt undertaking worsens a smooth innovative environment.
Antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antioxidants, enzyme inhibition activities, and scanning electron microscopy of Lactuca orientalis (Boiss.) Boiss. seeds
Authors: Zahra Syeda Anber , Iqbal Javed , Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Shahbaz Amir , Kanwal Sobia , Shah Syed Lal , Ahmad Parvaiz , Mahmood Tariq
Published: January 2021

Lactuca orientalis (Boiss.) Boiss. is one of the most frequently used ethnomedicinal plant. This research study was designed to decipher the phytochemical screening, pharmacological potential and implementation of scanning electron microscope (SEM). Six different solvents were used to prepare L. orientalis (LO) seed extracts. Phytochemical and antioxidant activities were determined calorimetrically. To investigate antidiabetic, α‐amylase inhibition assay was performed. Brine shrimp assay was performed for cytotoxicity and anti‐leishmanial via MTT assay. Disc‐diffusion assay was performed to detect protein kinase inhibitory, antibacterial and antifungal activities. SEM was used as identification tool. Significant amount of phenolic and flavonoid content were identified in methanol extract (LOSM) (95.76 ± 3.71 GAE/mg) and (77 ± 3.60 QE/mg). Highest DPPH scavenging potential (82%) was reported for LOSM. Significant total antioxidant capacity (90.60 ± 1.55 AAE/mg) and total reducing power (94.44 ± 1.38 AAE/mg) were determined for LOSM. Highest α‐amylase inhibition was found in LOSM (78.20 ± 1.58%). The highest LD50 of brine shrimp was found for n‐Hexane extract (LOSH) 13.03 𝜇g/ml. All extracts showed strong anti‐leishmanial activity except LOSH. L. orientalis seeds showed significant protein kinase inhibition, antibacterial and antifungal activities. The seeds of L. orientalis were seen to be oblong to obovate, projections, wavy slightly straight, anticlinal wall was raised with apex acuminate. The outer‐periclinal wall convex with fine texture. In conclusion, our findings scientifically support ethnomedicinal and biological potentials of L. orientalis seeds. In future, L. orientalis seeds need to be explored for identification and isolation of bioactive compounds. The results obtained necessitate further in vivo studies to evaluate their pharmacological potentials.
Raman spectroscopic and quantum chemical investigation of the effects of trimethylamine N‐oxide on hydrated guanidinium and hydrogen‐bonded water networks
Authors: Verville Genevieve A. , Byrd Mary Hannah , Kamischke Andrew , Smith Shelly A. , Magers David H. , Hammer Nathan I.
Published: January 2021

The effects of trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) on guanidinium chloride and hydrogen‐bonded networks of water are explored in this joint Raman spectroscopic and quantum chemical study. Both TMAO and guanidinium are osmolytes that affect the stability of proteins, as TMAO is known to stabilize and counteract the destabilizing effects of guanidinium. While guanidinium is very similar in chemical structure to urea, the exact mechanisms of the molecular interactions between guanidinium, TMAO, and proteins continue to be investigated. Herein, we use Raman spectroscopy to elucidate the physical interactions between TMAO and guanidinium in aqueous solutions to better understand how these important osmolytes interact with each other and affect adjacent hydrogen‐bonding networks of water. Comparing experiment to theory yields good agreement and allows for the identification and tracking of different vibrational modes. It was determined that adding TMAO into an aqueous solution of guanidinium induces a blue shift (shift to higher energy) in guanidinium's H‐N‐H bending modes, which is indicative of direct interactions between the two osmolytes and similar to the earlier results observed for TMAO interacting with urea.