bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water‐Soluble Doubly‐Strapped Isolated Perylene Diimide Chromophore
Authors: Yang Fei , Li Ran , Wei Wei , Ding Xingwei , Xu Zhenzhen , Wang Ping , Wang Guo , Xu Yanqing , Fu Hongbing , Zhao Yanli
Published: March 2022

Perylene diimides (PDIs), a well‐studied class of organic dyes, have a strong tendency to self‐aggregate in water, thus greatly restricting their phototheranostic applications. Herein, we report a water‐soluble PDI cyclophane “Gemini Box” (GBox‐14+), consisting of a central PDI chromophore enclosed by double‐sided cationic molecular straps. Owing to the effective spatial isolation, the chromophore self‐aggregation can be completely eliminated, even in a concentrated aqueous solution up to 2 mM. To our knowledge,GBox‐14+represents an interesting example of a fluorescent PDI cyclophane in water, capable of being employed for lysosome‐targetable live‐cell imaging. More importantly, the highly concentrated aqueous solution of PDI radical anion can be significantly stabilized byGBox‐14+to exhibit an excellent near‐infrared photothermal effect, which was further exploited for efficient and selective antibacterial applications. This work provides a new access to water‐soluble non‐aggregated organic dyes and promotes their potential biomedical applications.
Study of free‐surface and solids suspension in top‐sealed tanks stirred by pitched blade turbine impellers through DEM‐VOF method
Authors: Li Bao , Kang Qianqian , Wang Zechen , Wang Jingtao
Published: March 2022

A coupled method of discrete element method (DEM) and volume of fluid (VOF) is applied to study the particle suspension in top‐sealed solid–liquid tanks with a free‐surface. VOF is used to track the gas–liquid free‐surface, and DEM is used to calculate the movement and interaction of particles. As the air between the cover and free‐surface in a sealed tank is very limited, the free‐surface evolution process that a big vortex is generated quickly and then shrinks to a smaller one in sealed stirred tanks is reported first in this paper. In addition, the effects of pitched blade turbine (PBT) with different blade pitched angles (including 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°) on solid suspension, free‐surface, and power number are investigated. Finally, the relationships between particle motion and fluid flow during the stirring are studied carefully. Fluid flow plays a dominant role during the start‐up of the stirring; and then, due to the contact of particles, some particles could obtain the larger velocity than the fluid. The results obtained here are helpful to design the sealed stirred tanks with PBT.
Role for Granulocyte Colony‐Stimulating Factor in Neutrophilic Extramedullary Myelopoiesis in a Murine Model of Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Malengier‐Devlies Bert , Bernaerts Eline , Ahmadzadeh Kourosh , Filtjens Jessica , Vandenhaute Jessica , Boeckx Bram , Burton Oliver , De Visscher Amber , Mitera Tania , Berghmans Nele , Verbeke Geert , Liston Adrian , Lambrechts Diether , Proost Paul , Wouters Carine , Matthys Patrick
Published: March 2022

Objective

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a systemic inflammatory disease with childhood onset. Systemic JIA is associated with neutrophilia, including immature granulocytes, potentially driven by the growth factor granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF). This study was undertaken to investigate the role of G‐CSF in the pathology of systemic JIA.

Methods

Injection of Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA) in BALB/c mice induces mild inflammation and neutrophilia in wild‐type (WT) mice and a more pronounced disease, reminiscent to that of JIA patients, in interferon‐γ–knockout (IFNγ‐KO) mice. Extramedullary myelopoiesis was studied in CFA‐immunized mice by single‐cell RNA sequencing, and the effect of G‐CSF receptor (G‐CSFR) blockage on neutrophil development and systemic JIA pathology was evaluated. Additionally, plasma G‐CSF levels were measured in patients.

Results

Both in systemic JIA patients and in a corresponding mouse model, plasma G‐CSF levels were increased. In the mouse model, we demonstrated that G‐CSF is responsible for the observed neutrophilia and extramedullary myelopoiesis and the induction of immature neutrophils and myeloid‐derived suppressor‐like cells. Administration of a G‐CSFR antagonizing antibody blocked the maturation and differentiation of neutrophils in CFA‐immunized mice. In IFNγ‐KO mice, treatment was associated with almost complete inhibition of arthritis due to reduced neutrophilia and osteoclast formation. Disease symptoms were ameliorated, but slight increases in interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor, and IL‐17 were detected upon G‐CSFR inhibition in the IFNγ‐KO mice, and were associated with mild increases in weight loss, tail damage, and immature red blood cells.

Conclusion

We describe the role of G‐CSF in a mouse model of systemic JIA and suggest an important role for G‐CSF–induced myelopoiesis and neutrophilia in regulating the development of arthritis.
Cationic Gold‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization of Substituted 1,5‐Diynes to Access Indenone Derivatives
Authors: Karunakar Galla V. , Raju Chittala Emmaniel , Sreenivasulu Gottam , Kumar Perla Bharath , Kadiyala Veerabhushanam , Sridhar Balasubramanian
Published: March 2022

An efficient intramolecular cyclization reaction was developed to achieve indenone derivatives. The substituted 1,5‐diyenes were converted to the corresponding indenones via a gold‐catalyzed organic transformation, and moderate to excellent yields of the title molecules were obtained via formation of two C=O and one C−C bonds under mild reaction conditions in one pot.
Molecular cloning and characterization of Cinnamoyl‐CoA reductase promoter gene from Asarum sieboldii Miq
Authors: Liu Fawang , Ali Tahir , Liu Zhong
Published: March 2022

Asarum sieboldii Miq., a perennial herb of the family Aristolochiaceae, is widely used in China to treat cold, fever, aphthous stomatitis, toothache, gingivitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Methyleugenol is the most representative pharmacological constituent of this medicinal herb. Cinnamoyl‐CoA reductase (CCR), which has been well known for occupying a critical position in the lignin biosynthesis pathway, is also shared with the biosynthesis of methyleugenol. To better understand the regulatory mechanisms of methyleugenol biosynthesis, a 1530‐bp long promoter region of the AsCCR1 gene was isolated. PLACE and PlantCARE analysis affirmed the existence of the core promoter elements such as TATA and CAAT boxes, abiotic stress‐responsive cis‐regulation elements like abscisic acid‐responsive element, G‐box, and MBS in the isolated sequence. The histochemical assay suggested that it was a constitutive promoter, highly expressed in the root tissue. Moreover, the region of −200 bp to ATG (start codon) was enough to drive the expression of It GUS gene. Treatments with low temperature and high concentration of gibberellin or abscisic acid demonstrated the abiotic stress‐induced expression of the AsCCR1 promoter. Overall, this study revealed the isolation and characterization of the AsCCR1 promoter. Moreover, it also provided a candidate gene for molecular breeding in A. sieboldii to enhance its pharmacological potential.
A Liquid‐Metal Electrocatalyst as a Self‐Healing Anchor to Suppress Polysulfide Shuttling in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Fahad Saisaban , Zhang Zeyang , Zhai Lei , Kushima Akihiro
Published: March 2022

Lithium‐sulfur battery (LSB) is a promising next generation energy storage technology due to its high theoretical capacity, low cost, and environmental friendliness surpassing current lithium‐ion batteries. However, several challenges restrict the practical applications of LSBs. A major obstacle that limits its performance is the dissolution of long‐chain lithium polysulfides into the electrolyte which results in loss of active material and capacity fade during the charge/discharge cycles. Here, we developed a novel sulfur composite with liquid‐metal (LM) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) dispensed on a carbon‐cloth electrode to achieve long cycling of LSBs. The liquid nature of the LM nanoparticles results in many advantages. It provides a strong anchoring with sulfur inhibiting the polysulfide shuttle effect. In addition, it prevents the detachment of the sulfur particles from the current collector albeit large volume changes and cracking of the sulfur during lithiation and delithiation, maintaining the electron conduction paths. This innovative composite resulted in a high discharge capacity, an outstanding capacity retention, and a high Coulombic efficiency. Our results demonstrate an effective method to suppress the polysulfide shuttle effect and pave a new path towards practical applications of LSBs by using multifunctional LM nanoparticles composites.
Learn how to apply guidance on transgender participation
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: March 2022

On the one hand, the widely reported recent successes of certain transgender student‐athletes in swimming events have been viewed as a reflection of their individual efforts as well as the inclusive practices in place at the school and conference levels as well as the NCAA. But on the other hand, the transgender student‐athletes’ participation has triggered a number of concerns about the relative level of fairness and competitive equity associated with their participation. In addition, some team members have expressed privacy‐related concerns about having to use the same locker rooms.
Overview of drug‐testing trends can help with compliance
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2022

College athletics administrators know the important role drug‐testing plays in protecting the well‐being of student‐athletes and the integrity of competition while also ensuring compliance with NCAA requirements. To help keep college athletics administrators up to date with the latest drug‐testing program trends, the NCAA hosted a virtual panel on the topic during the annual NCAA Convention in January.
Perfectionism paradox: Perfectionistic concerns (not perfectionistic strivings) affect the relationship between perceived risk and choice
Authors: Ceylan Gizem , Kolsarici Ceren , MacInnis Deborah J.
Published: March 2022

We investigate whether, when, and why perfectionism moderates the relationship between perceived risk and choice. Two studies (N = 1784) using different choice domains (appearance and performance) and different samples (women and general population) show consistent results. People with high (vs. low) perfectionistic concerns (PC) are less sensitive to high risks and, hence, are more willing to consider options (i.e., products and services) that entail greater risks. These effects emerge because high‐PC (vs. low‐PC) individuals have more favorable appraisals, believing that the product or service's benefits are worth its risks even when these risks are substantial. The effects observed for high‐ vs. low‐PC do not obtain for people who are high (vs. low) on a second dimension of perfectionism called perfectionistic strivings (PS). Our findings suggest that high‐PC individuals may be a vulnerable segment in society, particularly since (a) people are frequently confronted with decisions about options that promise perfectionistic outcomes, (b) these options can come with high levels of risk, and (c) perfectionistic tendencies have become more prevalent over time. We discuss the implications of these findings for policymakers and future research.
Switchable DNA‐Based Peroxidases Controlled by a Chaotropic Ion**
Authors: Hoog Tanner G. , Pawlak Matthew R. , Aufdembrink Lauren M. , Bachan Benjamin R. , Galles Matthew B. , Bense Nicholas B. , Adamala Katarzyna P. , Engelhart Aaron E.
Published: March 2022

Here we demonstrate a switchable DNA electron‐transfer catalyst, enabled by selective destabilization of secondary structure by the denaturant, perchlorate. The system is comprised of two strands, one of which can be selectively switched between a G‐quadruplex and duplex or single‐stranded conformations. In the G‐quadruplex state, it binds hemin, enabling peroxidase activity. This switching ability arises from our finding that perchlorate, a chaotropic Hofmeister ion, selectively destabilizes duplex over G‐quadruplex DNA. By varying perchlorate concentration, we show that the DNA structure can be switched between states that do and do not catalyze electron‐transfer catalysis. State switching can be achieved in three ways: thermally, by dilution, or by concentration.
Norethisterone‐induced cholestasis: A case report
Authors: Moussaoui Safa , Abdelwahed Mehdi , Ben Chaaben Nabil , Bellalah Ahlem , Ben Fadhel Najah , Guediche Arwa , Zakhama Mejda , Tababi Ramzi , Aouam Karim , Abdelfattah Zakhama , Loghmari Hichem , Safer Leila
Published: March 2022

Case presentation

This case report concerns a 49‐year‐old woman who developed cholestasis (build‐up of bile in the liver) two months and a half after initiating norethisterone, progestin‐only pills, which resolved after the withdrawal of these pills.
Epstein–Barr virus mucocutaneous ulcer followed by Hodgkin lymphoma in multiple myeloma patient
Authors: Forster Moriah , Fedoriw Yuri , Tuchman Sascha , Grover Natalie
Published: March 2022

Epstein–Barr virus mucocutaneous ulcers (EBV MCU) are B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders associated with immunosuppression. We report EBV MCU in a multiple myeloma patient on lenalidomide maintenance after stem cell transplant that resolved with decreased immunosuppression. Furthermore, the subsequent development of classical Hodgkin lymphoma suggests an underlying predisposition to EBV‐driven lymphoproliferative disorders.
Disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis as an incidental finding: A case report
Authors: Morgan Emmanuel D , Kahiye Mohamed , Kule Isaiah , Yahaya James J , Othieno Emmanuel
Published: March 2022

We present the case of a 23‐year‐old female with multiple diffuse and nodular masses of different sizes involving predominantly the posterior wall of the uterus, omentum, and peritoneum which were histopathologically confirmed to be disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis. Meticulous investigation and accurate diagnosis are of utmost importance for the establishment of the correct diagnosis. Additionally, proper management of the patient while considering choice of the patients including close follow‐up of the patients is mandatory for the reason of ensuring early detection of recurrence.
Catalytic Asymmetric Isomerization of (Homo)Allylic Alcohols: Recent Advances and Challenges
Authors: Zhang Xue‐Xin , Zhang Ying , Liao Ling , Gao Yang , Su Heng E. M. , Yu Jin‐Sheng
Published: March 2022

Catalytic asymmetric isomerization of allylic or homoallylic alcohols into synthetically useful carbonyl compounds is a redox‐neutral and 100 % atom‐economic transformation, which is of great interest and has gained increasing attention from both academic and industry. This minireview summarizes the advances in catalytic enantioselective isomerization and it involved tandem reactions over the past five years, also discusses their advantages and limitations, and expounds the synthetic chances still open for further development.
Single Crystals of Mixed‐Cation Copper‐Based Perovskite with Trimodal Bandgap Behavior
Authors: Elattar Amr , Li Wenhui , Suzuki Hiroo , Kambe Takashi , Nishikawa Takeshi , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko , Hayashi Yasuhiko
Published: March 2022

Two‐dimensional (2D) hybrid perovskites with novel functionalities and structural diversity are a perfect platform for emerging optoelectronic devices such as photodetectors, light‐emitting diodes, and solar cells. Here, we demonstrate that excess concentration of Cesium bromide (CsBr) is key to the formation of easily exfoliated 2D Cs2Cu(Cl/Br)4 perovskite crystal. Furthermore, by employing this trick to 2D perovskite MA2Cu(Cl/Br)4 (MA=methylammonium), we achieve a phase‐pure easily exfoliated 2D mixed‐cation (MA/Cs)2Cu(Cl/Br)4 perovskite crystal, which exhibits reduced bandgap (1.53 eV) with ferromagnetic behavior and photovoltaic property. The resultant mixed‐cation structured device reveals enhanced efficiency compared to all MA and all Cs counterparts. These findings demonstrate the importance of cation‐engineering in developing innovative materials with novel properties.
Luminescent Thin Films Enabled by CsPbX3 (X=Cl, Br, I) Precursor Solution
Authors: Liu Yue , Wang Yuxiang , Cheng Haoran , Ma Zheng , Li Qian , Wang Gang , Pan Daocheng , Wang Limin , Ming Jun
Published: March 2022

Inorganic cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals are candidates for lighting and display materials due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties. However, the dissolution issue of perovskite nanocrystals in polar solvents remains a challenge for practical applications. Herein, we present a newly designed one‐step spin‐coating strategy to prepare a novel multicolor‐tunable CsPbX3 (X=Cl, Br, I) nanocrystal film, where the CsPbX3 precursor solution was formed by dissolving PbO, Cs2CO3, and CH3NH3X into the ionic liquid n‐butylammonium butyrate. The as‐designed CsPbX3 nanocrystal films show high color purity with a narrow emission width. Also, the blue CsPb(Cl/Br)3 film demonstrates an absolute photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) of 15.6 %, which is higher than 11.7 % of green CsPbBr3 and 8.3 % of red CsPb(Br/I)3 film. This study develops an effective approach to preparing CsPbX3 nanocrystal thin films, opening a new avenue to design perovskite nanocrystals‐based devices for lighting and display applications.
Impact of Heterocycle Annulation on NIR Absorbance in Quinoid Thioacene Derivatives
Authors: Hou Peng , Peschtrich Sebastian , Huber Nils , Feuerstein Wolfram , Bihlmeier Angela , Krummenacher Ivo , Schoch Roland , Klopper Wim , Breher Frank , Paradies Jan
Published: March 2022

The synthesis and characterisation of a homologous series of quinoid sulfur‐containing imidazolyl‐substituted heteroacenes is described. The optoelectronic and magnetic properties were investigated by UV/vis, fluorescence and EPR spectroscopy as well as quantum‐chemical calculations, and were compared to those of the corresponding benzo congener. The room‐temperature and atmospherically stable quinoids display strong absorption in the NIR region between 678 and 819 nm. The dithieno[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐d]thiophene and the thieno[2′,3′:4,5]thieno[3,2‐b]thieno[2,3‐d]thiophene derivatives were EPR active at room temperature. For the latter, variable‐temperature EPR spectroscopy revealed the presence of a thermally accessible triplet state, with a singlet‐triplet separation of 14.1 kJ mol−1.
Wieso braucht die Brezel Lauge?
Authors: Emden Markus , Hild Pitt , Kallinna Kirsten , Murer Livia
Published: March 2022

Anliegen der in loser Folge erscheinenden Versuche ist es, Impulse für chemische Versuche zu geben, die gefahrlos zu Hause mit haushaltsüblichen Gegenständen durchgeführt werden können. Sie können damit als Quelle für das gemeinsame Ausprobieren mit Kindern zuhause dienen, in Kindergärten oder an Schulen sowie zur Verwendung bei Tagen der offenen Tür. Ein Stückweit sind sie zu verstehen als Antwort auf den oft gehörten Satz: „Ach, Du bist Chemiker/in? Dann mach doch mal eben ein Experiment.“
Adsorption and removal studies of cadmium ion onto sulphonic/phosphonic acid functionalization resins
Authors: Elfeghe Salem , Anwar Shams , Zhang Yahui
Published: March 2022

Cadmium is a persistent bio‐accumulative toxic metallic element, which causes hazardous impacts on living species, water, and the environment. This paper presents the study of cadmium ion removal from aqueous solutions in batch experiments using 22 ion exchange resins with different functional groups. It was found that Dowex G‐26 resin with a sulphonic functional group and Puromet™ MTS9570 resin with sulphonic and phosphonic functional groups had excellent performance for Cd (II) ion removal. The effects of resin dosage, adsorption time, initial concentration of cadmium, and initial pH of solution on cadmium removal were investigated systematically using Dowex G‐26 and Puromet™ MTS9570 resins. Maximum cadmium removal rates of 99.2% and 98.9% were achieved for G‐26 and MTS9570, respectively, at an initial cadmium concentration of 1000 mg/L, an initial solution pH of 5.0, an adsorption time of 30 min, and a 0.01 mg/L resin dosage for G‐26, and a 0.025 mg/L resin dosage for MTS9570. The ion‐exchange adsorption process was fast, and it reached equilibrium after 30 min of adsorption. The results obtained show that both resins performed well for the removal of Cd (II) ions from weakly acidic solutions. Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherms models were employed to investigate and understand the adsorption characteristics. The results showed that the studied adsorption processes fitted well to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. From the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, the maximum adsorption capacities of Cd (II) were found to be 78.125 and 51.020 mg/g for G‐26 and MTS9570, respectively. This research provides an efficient systemic approach for cadmium ion removal from aqueous solutions.
Biliary cytology: A diagnostic tree for adenocarcinoma based on a cohort of 135 patients with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for stenosis of the extrahepatic bile duct
Authors: Giovannini Diane , Bailly Adeline , Seigneurin Arnaud , Fior‐Gozlan Michèle , Eyraud Pierre‐Yves , Roth Gael , Laverrière Marie‐Hélène , McLeer Anne , Sturm Nathalie
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma on bile aspiration is a well‐known challenge. This study was aimed at improving the diagnostic performance and providing a biliary cytology learning atlas.

METHODS

This single‐center, retrospective study included 135 cases of informative biliary samples collected between 2009 and 2018 that were classified as benign, atypical, or malignant. A double assessment was performed by a novice and a cytopathologist experienced in biliary cytology to establish the specificities, sensitivities, and inter‐ and intraobserver κ index agreements of 24 cytological criteria, which were illustrated in a learning atlas.

RESULTS

A multivariate logistic regression was used to assess whether the most specific and reproducible criteria were associated with malignancy. A scoring system was statistically determined: 6 points were attributed in the presence of a 3‐dimensional (3D) cluster, anisonucleosis, and a nuclear to cytoplasmic (N:C) ratio > 0.5, whereas 4 points were given in the presence of an enhanced nuclear membrane. A score higher than 10 points resulted in a malignancy diagnosis with 96% sensitivity and 97% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

A diagnostic tree of malignancy based on 4 criteria, together with a multidisciplinary approach, allows the diagnosis of adenocarcinoma with a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 88% or 72% depending on the presence of a single malignant cell or the presence of 3 combined criteria (a 3D cluster, anisonucleosis, and an N:C ratio > 0.5). It comes with a learning atlas useful for cytopathologist training and accuracy in this uncommon cytology.;
Formation of Temporary Negative Ions and Their Subsequent Fragmentation upon Electron Attachment to CoQ0 and CoQ0H2
Authors: Ameixa João , Arthur‐Baidoo Eugene , Pereira‐da‐Silva João , Ruivo Júlio C. , T. do N. Varella Márcio , Beyer Martin K. , Ončák Milan , Ferreira da Silva Filipe , Denifl Stephan
Published: March 2022

The front cover artwork is provided by Prof. Stephan Denifl's group at the University of Innsbruck, Austria, in collaboration with Prof. Filipe Ferreira da Silva's group at NOVA University Lisbon, Portugal, and Prof. Dr. Márcio Varella's group at University of São Paulo, Brazil, as well as with Prof. Dr. Martin Beyer and Prof. Dr. Milan Ončak also at the University of Innsbruck, Austria. The image shows the main fragmentation pathways of both coenzyme Q0 (CoQ0) and CoQ0H2 upon electron attachment in the gas phase. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/cphc.202100834.
Mesocarbon Microbeads Boost the Electrochemical Performances of LiFePO4||Li4Ti5O12 through Anion Intercalation
Authors: Cheng Zhenjie , Wang Chenggang , Zhu Yansong , Wang Cheng , Jiang Xiaolei , Qian Zhao , Chen Bo , Yang Jian
Published: March 2022

Li‐ion batteries with LiFePO4 cathode and Li4Ti5O12 anode show promise for storing renewable energy. However, their low output voltage results in a low energy density. In contrast, dual‐ion batteries with graphite cathode and Li4Ti5O12 anode can achieve a high output voltage of >3.0 V. In this study, mesocarbon microbeads (MCMB)@LiFePO4||Li4Ti5O12 dual‐ion batteries are developed to address these issues. In the cathode, MCMB improves the conductivity of LiFePO4 and increases the output voltage by the intercalation of anions in the cell voltage range of 2.1–3.5 V. Moreover, the LiFePO4 shell sustains the structural integrity of MCMB and generates in situ a cathode‐electrolyte interphase (CEI) with rich LiF. Owing to these unique compositional and structural features, MCMB@LiFePO4||Li4Ti5O12 manifests much better electrochemical performance than LiFePO4||Li4Ti5O12 and MCMB||Li4Ti5O12. It sustains 89.6 % of the initial capacity after 1200 cycles at 0.2 A g−1 and achieves a specific energy up to 128 Wh kg−1 at 179 W kg−1.
Memristor‐based logic gate and its application in pulse train controlled Buck converter
Authors: Li Zhaokun , Yu Dongsheng , Ye Zongbin , Iu Herbert H. C. , Fernando Tyrone
Published: March 2022

Memristor (MR) has attractive characteristics of nanoscale volume and low‐power dissipation and hence possesses superiorities in designing integrated‐circuits. In this paper, a flux‐controlled binary MR emulator is proposed and discussed by detailing its constitutive mathematical relation between memristance and magnetic flux. MR based logical gates are then constructed and applied to pulse train (PT) controlled Buck converters to improve its output voltage response performance. In order to suppress low‐frequency voltage oscillation of PT controlled Buck converters in continuous conduction mode (CCM), inductor current based PT (IC‐PT) control method using the MR‐based logic gates is newly proposed and analyzed. The sampled simulation and experimental results reveals that the IC‐PT controlled Buck converter by utilizing MR based logic gates can achieve fast transient response and minimized low‐frequency voltage oscillation in CCM mode.
You eat what you find – Local patterns in vegetation structure control diets of African fungus‐growing termites
Authors: Vesala Risto , Rikkinen Aleksi , Pellikka Petri , Rikkinen Jouko , Arppe Laura
Published: March 2022

Fungus‐growing termites and their symbiotic Termitomyces fungi are critically important carbon and nutrient recyclers in arid and semiarid environments of sub‐Saharan Africa. A major proportion of plant litter produced in these ecosystems is decomposed within nest chambers of termite mounds, where temperature and humidity are kept optimal for the fungal symbionts. While fungus‐growing termites are generally believed to exploit a wide range of different plant substrates, the actual diets of most species remain elusive. We studied dietary niches of two Macrotermes species across the semiarid savanna landscape in the Tsavo Ecosystem, southern Kenya, based on carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) stable isotopes in Termitomyces fungus combs. We applied Bayesian mixing models to determine the proportion of grass and woody plant matter in the combs, these being the two major food sources available for Macrotermes species in the region. Our results showed that both termite species, and colonies cultivating different Termitomyces fungi, occupied broad and largely overlapping isotopic niches, indicating no dietary specialization. Including laser scanning derived vegetation cover estimates to the dietary mixing model revealed that the proportion of woody plant matter in fungus combs increased with increasing woody plant cover in the nest surroundings. Nitrogen content of fungus combs was positively correlated with woody plant cover around the mounds and negatively correlated with the proportion of grass matter in the comb. Considering the high N demand of large Macrotermes colonies, woody plant matter seems to thus represent a more profitable food source than grass. As grass is also utilized by grazing mammals, and the availability of grass matter typically fluctuates over the year, mixed woodland‐grasslands and bushlands seem to represent more favorable habitats for large Macrotermes colonies than open grasslands.
Bidentate Coordination of 2‐Aminopyridine (2Apy) in cis‐[Ru(phen)2(2Apy)]2+ Aiming at Photobiological Studies
Authors: Lima Marcia V. S. , Marchi Rafael C. , Cardoso Carolina R. , Cook Nathan P. , Pazin Wallance M. , Kock Flavio V. C. , Venâncio Tiago , Martí Angel A. , Carlos Rose M.
Published: March 2022

This study describes the synthesis and characterization of the photoluminescent and water‐soluble complex cis‐[Ru(phen)2(2Apy)]2+ (Ru2Apy, phen=1,10‐phenanthroline and 2Apy=2‐aminopyridine), which exhibits spectroscopic and physicochemical properties favorable for biological applications. 1H‐NMR, photoluminescence, and UV‐vis spectroscopy experiments show bidentate coordination of the 2Apy ligand, which leads to a blue shift in the emission spectrum and places the 3MLCT in proximity to the 3MC excited states, thus enabling a photochemical pathway. Under continuous light irradiation at 450 nm, Ru2Apy opens the coordinating site of the NH2 group in 2Apy to form the monoacetonitrile complex cis‐[Ru(phen)2(2Apy)(CH3CN))2+, with a quantum yield of 0.457. Further irradiation leads to a second photoprocess to form the bis‐acetonitrile cis‐[Ru(phen)2(CH3CN)2]2+ complex, with a quantum yield of 0.002. Ru2Apy binds to human serum albumin via non‐covalent interactions with Kb=4.63×10−9 mol L−1, ΔH=−3.4×10−3 kcal mol−1, and ΔS=8.7 kcal mol−1K−1, and displays a moderate inhibition of AChE with an IC50 of 13.2±2.0 μmol L−1. The complex also exhibited high uptake into HeLa cells with no cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the emissive response of Ru2Apy was be used to assess, in real‐time, the aggregation of Aβ1–40 in a dose‐dependent manner.
Thin film microfluidic reactors in electrochemical advanced oxidation processes for wastewater treatment: A review on influencing parameters, scaling issues, and engineering considerations
Authors: Adnan Faidzul Hakim , Pons Marie‐Noëlle , Mousset Emmanuel
Published: March 2022

The use of microfluidic electrochemical reactors has been introduced several decades ago, but their application in the field of wastewater treatment is more recent (2010). The parallel development of electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) as promising technologies for effluent treatment make them good candidates to be implemented as thin film cells. This allows favoring the mass transfer, which is particularly interesting for heterogenous electro‐oxidation. Moreover, the energy requirement is reduced, while there is possibility to treat low‐conductivity solutions. This review intends to provide instructions on the main operating parameters to be optimized during the EAOPs treatment. Directions on engineering aspects have been given to overcome the main drawbacks of microreactors, such as fouling, scaling, and low treatment capacity, based on recent encouraging results given in literature. The promising development of hybrid processes that combine electroseparation with electroconversion would also benefit from such reactor designs.
Mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of combustion emissions are impacted more by combustor technology than by fuel composition: A brief review
Authors: DeMarini David M. , Linak William P.
Published: March 2022

Studies during the past 50 years have characterized the carcinogenicity and mutagenicity of extractable organic material (EOM) of particulate matter (PM) in ambient air and from combustion emissions. We have summarized conclusions from these studies and present data supporting those conclusions for 50 combustion emissions, including carcinogenic potencies on mouse skin (papillomas/mouse/mg EOM), mutagenic potencies (revertants/μg EOM) in the Salmonella (Ames) mutagenicity assay, and mutagenicity emission factors (revertants/kg fuel or revertants/MJthermal) in Salmonella. Mutagenic potencies of EOM from PM in ambient air and combustion emissions span 1–2 orders of magnitude, respectively. In contrast, the revertants/m3 span >5 orders of magnitude due to variable PM concentrations in ambient air. Carcinogenic potencies of EOM from combustion emissions on mouse skin and EOM‐associated human lung cancer risk from those emissions both span ~3 orders of magnitude and are highly associated. The ubiquitous presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitroarenes, and aromatic amines results in mutagenic and carcinogenic potencies of PM that span only 1–3 orders of magnitude; most PM induces primarily G to T mutations. Mutagenicity emission factors of combustion emissions span 3–5 orders of magnitude and correlate with PAH emission factors (r > 0.9). Mutagenicity emission factors were largely a function of how material was burned (highly efficient modern combustors versus open burning) rather than what materials were burned. Combustion systems that minimize kinetic and mass‐transfer limitations and promote complete oxidation also minimize the mutagenicity of their emissions. This fundamental engineering principle can inform environmental and public health assessments of combustion emissions.
A complex systems view on the current hypotheses of epilepsy pharmacoresistance
Authors: Servilha‐Menezes Gabriel , Garcia‐Cairasco Norberto
Published: March 2022

Drug‐resistant epilepsy remains to this day as a highly prevalent condition affecting around one‐third of patients with epilepsy, despite all the research and the development of several new antiseizure medications (ASMs) over the last decades. Epilepsies are multifactorial complex diseases, commonly associated with psychiatric, neurological, and somatic comorbidities. Thus, to solve the puzzling problem of pharmacoresistance, the diagnosis and modeling of epilepsy and comorbidities need to change toward a complex system approach. In this review, we have summarized the sequence of events for the definition of epilepsies and comorbidities, the search for mechanisms, and the major hypotheses of pharmacoresistance, drawing attention to some of the many converging aspects between the proposed mechanisms, their supporting evidence, and comorbidities‐related alterations. The use of systems biology applied to epileptology may lead to the discovery of new targets and the development of new ASMs, as may advance our understanding of the epilepsies and their comorbidities, providing much deeper insight on multidrug pharmacoresistance.
Two new species and a new record for Onosma L. (Boraginaceae) from northwestern Iran
Authors: Mehrabian Ahmad Reza , Naghizadeh Siavash , Khajoei Nasab Farzaneh , Moradi Zeinab Hossein , Mozaffarian Valiollah
Published: March 2022

Onosma atrii and O. persica are described and illustrated as new species and O. caucasica Levin is recorded for the first time from northwestern Iran. The two new species are placed in subsect. Asterotricha (Boiss.) Gürke, because of the asterotrichous indumentum (stellate trichomes) of their basal leaves. An extensive review of the literature and comparison with specimens from various European and Asiatic herbaria led to the recognition of these novelties. Our argument for these innovations is based on observation of significant differences in taxonomically important morphological characters including trichome type, shape and size of basal and cauline leaves, shape and size of calyx and corolla, annulus hairs, anther length, connection type and degree of exsertion, and nutlet morphology. The diagnostic morphological characters of closely related species are discussed, and for each new species a detailed description and details of distribution and conservation status are provided. An updated synoptical key to the species known from the Flora Iranica region and Atropatene sub‐province is provided.
Submandibular gland transfer for the prevention of radiation‐induced xerostomia in oropharyngeal cancer: Dosimetric impact in the intensity modulated radiotherapy era
Authors: Kutuk Tugce , McAllister Nicole C. , Rzepczynski Amy E. , Williams Andre , Young Geoffrey , Crawley Meghan B. , Rabinowits Guilherme , Kaiser Adeel , Contreras Jessika A. , Kalman Noah S.
Published: March 2022

Background

Submandibular gland (SMG) transfer decreased radiation‐associated xerostomia in the 2/3‐dimensional radiotherapy era. We evaluated the dosimetric implications of SMG transfer on modern intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plans.

Methods

Eighteen oropharynx cancer patients underwent SMG transfer followed by IMRT; reoptimized plans using the baseline SMG location were generated. Mean salivary gland, oral cavity, and larynx doses were compared between clinical plans and reoptimized plans.

Results

No statistically significant difference in mean SMG dose (27.53 Gy vs. 29.61 Gy) or total salivary gland dose (26.12 Gy vs. 26.41 Gy) was observed with or without SMG transfer (all p > 0.05). Mean oral cavity and larynx doses were not statistically different. Neither tumor site, target volume crossing midline, stage, nor salivary gland volumes were associated with mean doses.

Conclusions

Salivary gland doses were similar with or without SMG transfer. IMRT likely decreases the benefit of SMG transfer on the risk of radiation‐associated xerostomia.
Emerging immunotherapy for HCC: A guide for hepatologists
Authors: Foerster Friedrich , Gairing Simon Johannes , Ilyas Sumera Irie , Galle Peter Robert
Published: March 2022

HCC is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and the third leading cause of cancer‐related death globally. HCC comprises nearly 90% of all cases of primary liver cancer. Approximately half of all patients with HCC receive systemic therapy during their disease course, particularly in the advanced stages of disease. Immuno‐oncology has been paradigm shifting for the treatment of human cancers, with strong and durable antitumor activity in a subset of patients across a variety of malignancies including HCC. Immune checkpoint inhibition with atezolizumab and bevacizumab, an antivascular endothelial growth factor neutralizing antibody, has become first‐line therapy for patients with advanced HCC. Beyond immune checkpoint inhibition, immunotherapeutic strategies such as oncolytic viroimmunotherapy and adoptive T‐cell transfer are currently under investigation. The tumor immune microenvironment of HCC has significant immunosuppressive elements that may affect response to immunotherapy. Major unmet challenges include defining the role of immunotherapy in earlier stages of HCC, evaluating combinatorial strategies that use targeting of the immune microenvironment plus immune checkpoint inhibition, and identifying treatment strategies for patients who do not respond to the currently available immunotherapies. Herein, we review the rationale, mechanistic basis and supporting preclinical evidence, and available clinical evidence for immunotherapies in HCC as well as ongoing clinical trials of immunotherapy.
Building bridges in China for a more harmonious society: Origins and evolution of personal insolvency in Taiwan and Shenzhen
Authors: Kilborn Jason
Published: March 2022

A much‐heralded new law in Shenzhen, China, is not nearly as new as it might appear. The law's past offers revealing and important lessons for its successful future. Effective from March 2021, the ground‐breaking Shenzhen personal bankruptcy regulation is an impressive monument of Chinese legislation, but, contrary to what has been commonly announced, it is not the first Chinese personal insolvency law. Rather, Shenzhen's statute was founded on, and still reveals vestiges of, a predecessor law with a rich background of informative development. The origin law emerged 13 years earlier across the Strait in Taiwan. Although it was originally based on this Taiwanese law, the Shenzhen successor has powerfully evolved to take into account lessons from earlier struggles in Taiwan and the rest of the world, as catalogued in a landmark report by the World Bank. The Shenzhen model thus embodies an especially elegant product of building bridges from common experience in both East and West leading toward common goals. This article charts the progression of policy choices and results in Taiwan, through the decades of trial and error analyzed in the World Bank report, and culminating in the state‐of‐the‐art new Shenzhen regulation, which is poised for potential rollout to all of Mainland China.
Canine hypothyroidism: avoiding over diagnosing the condition
Authors: Spence Susanna
Published: March 2022

Background: Hypothyroidism is one of the most commonly treated endocrine disorders in dogs; however, the diagnosis of this condition can be challenging, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. The clinical signs of hypothyroidism are vague and non‐specific, as are the routine haematological and biochemical changes. When assessing the thyroid axis, the classical finding of decreased total thyroxine and increased thyroid‐stimulating hormone is highly specific for the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, but has less good sensitivity. Although numerous other tests are available, a basic understanding of thyroid gland physiology and thyroid test methodology is needed to be able to use each test and interpret the results correctly.

Aim of the article: This article discusses how to confidently diagnose the condition, explaining how clinicians need to consider the clinical signs, routine clinicopathological changes and thyroid hormone concentrations together, rather than in isolation.
Signal transducer and activator of transcription family is a prognostic marker associated with immune infiltration in endometrial cancer
Authors: Zhou Xin‐Ying , Dai Hai‐Yan , Zhang Hu , Zhu Jian‐Long , Hu Hua
Published: March 2022

Background

Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) is a unique protein family that binds to DNA and plays a vital role in regulating major physiological cellular processes. Seven STAT genes have been identified in the human genome. Several studies suggest STAT family members to be involved in cancer development, progression, and metastasis. However, the predictive relationship between STAT family expression and immune cell infiltration in endometrial cancer remains unknown.

Methods

We explored STAT family expression and prognosis in endometrial cancer using various databases. The STRING, GeneMANIA, and DAVID databases, along with GO and KEGG analyses, were used to construct a protein interaction network of related genes. Finally, the TIMER database and ssGSEA immune infiltration algorithm were used to investigate the correlation of STAT family expression with the immune infiltration level in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC).

Results

Our study showed that different STAT family members are differentially expressed in UCEC. STAT1 and STAT2 expression increased at various stages of UCEC, and STAT5A, STAT5B, and STAT6 levels were decreased. STAT3 and STAT4 expression was not significantly different between UCEC and normal tissues. High STAT1 expression may be a prognostic disadvantage of UCEC, and high STAT6 expression may improve UCEC patient prognosis. The STAT family‐associated genes were significantly enriched in signal transduction, protein binding, DNA binding, and ATP binding upon GO analysis. Related genes in the KEGG analysis were mainly enriched in pathways in cancer, viral carcinogenesis, chemokine signaling pathway, JAK/STAT signaling pathway, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. In terms of immune infiltration, STAT1 and STAT2 were positively correlated with B, CD8+ T, CD4+ T, and dendritic cells, and neutrophils (p < 0.05). All STAT family members were positively correlated with neutrophils and dendritic cells (p < 0.05). STAT1 and STAT2 showed similar correlations with all immune cell types, whereas STAT1 and STAT6 showed opposite correlations.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the STAT family is a prognostic marker, and the immune infiltration level, a therapeutic target, for endometrial cancer.
The citizenship shield: Mediated and moderated links between immigration status, discrimination, food insecurity, and negative health outcomes for latinx immigrants during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cadenas Germán A. , Cerezo Alison , Carlos Chavez Fiorella L. , Capielo Rosario Cristalis , Torres Lucas , Suro Beatriz , Fuentes Mercedez , Sanchez Delida
Published: March 2022

A framework termed “the citizenship shield” is introduced to conceptualize how legal protections buffer against negative health outcomes among Latinx immigrants in the United States. In this study, we tested the citizenship shield framework in the context of the disproportionate impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on Latinx immigrants. We investigated the connection between immigration status, discrimination, food insecurity, and negative health outcomes. Analyses involved testing mediation and moderation models among a community‐based sample of 536 Latinx immigrants holding five statuses (i.e., U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, undocumented, and temporary status). Results suggested that food insecurity mediated the link between discrimination and negative impacts from the pandemic for Latinx immigrants across all statuses. Follow up analyses suggested that two of the three paths were moderated by immigration status. This research provides novel, important data to inform health interventions and federal policy targeted for the most vulnerable immigrants in the United States.
Ultrasonographic scoring system for the diagnosis of adnexal torsion
Authors: Chen Yan , Liu Min , Zhang Meilian , Yang Minmin , Weng Zongjie , Wu Qiumei , He Suhui
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To establish the utility of an ultrasonographic scoring system for the diagnosis of adnexal torsion.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzing 358 adnexal torsion cases. Using Pearson's χ2 test we determined whether ultrasonographic signs were significantly associated with adnexal torsion. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the system. Ultimately by using binary logistic regression we established a precise and convenient scoring system.

Results

The torsion score was based on five criteria that were identified to be independently associated with adnexal torsion: (1) abnormal position of the index adnexa (odds ratio [OR], 2.311); (2) presence of a mass or cyst (OR, 3.495); (3) unilateral ovarian enlargement (OR, 3.051); (4) vascular pedicle twisting (OR, 2.105); and (5) peripheral hypervascularity of the corpus luteum with ovarian edema(encapsulating cyst sign) (OR, 4.164).patients with torsion who scored 0, have a predicted diagnosis rate of 20.9%; patients whose scores were 1,2 have a predicted probability of 41.8% and 66.15%, respectively. For patients with torsion scores of 3, 4, and 5, predicted diagnosis rates were 84.16%, 93.52%, and 98.27%, respectively.

Conclusion

The ultrasonographic scoring system is feasible and precisely diagnoses adnexal torsion using ultrasound.