bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International Anti-Money Laundering Regulations Through the Prism of Financial Inclusion and Competition
Authors: Khlopenko Oleksandr
Published: November 2020

The last three decades have been marked by a battle with money laundering, tax evasion, and even though not strictly illegal, but no less harmful, tax avoidance after the boom in those legal and accountancy services back in the 1980s. The methods that national, international, and supranational organization have used range from doctrinal soft power to outright bullying, which were supported by their apologists for the sake of the common good. Yet the policies implemented so far have somehow not addressed the lack of theoretical and practical application of ‘inclusion’ and ‘equality’ into their framework. The same three decades have been characterized by the ever-growing wealth gap and the concentration of capital in the hands of the minority, whose prerogative, as pointed out by Gabriel Zucman in his classical work ‘The Hidden Wealth of Nations’ (2015), remains to preserve that wealth in their hands through whichever means necessary. The article researches into the implementation methods of anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, their long-term effects in developing economies, and the restrictive effects in relation to financial inclusion, the marginalized population in developing economies, and the application of the European Union’s principles and laws on competition.
Energy Security of West Africa: the Case of Natural Gas
Authors: Zigah Elias
Published: November 2020

The Gas Supply Security Index (GSSI) is used to assess the security of natural gas supply of four gas producing countries in West Africa using five indicators: Gas Intensity, Net Gas Import Dependency, Ratio of Domestic Gas Production to Imports, Gross Inland Consumption and Geopolitical Risk. This study identified that security of natural gas supply in West Africa is a major challenge as some of the major natural gas producers within the region are highly vulnerable to supply disruptions. Most of the countries studied rely solely on domestic production for supply security. Lack of diversification of supply source and the absence of natural gas storage facilities to safeguard the security of supply were identified as the major factors accounting for the high vulnerability among the natural gas producers within the region.
Correlation between behavioral alterations and dopamine changes in mice experimentally infected with Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Al-Namroty Ahmed Ossamy , Shaapan Raafat Mohamed , El-Moamly Amal Abdul-Rasheed , Al-Hamshary Eman Moustafa
Published: November 2020

The mechanism of the parasite to induce alterations in host behavior is suggested due to changes in the dopaminergic system. This study aims to clarify the effects of latent toxoplasmosis on infected mice's behavior and to assess the dopamine neurotransmitter in their brains. Experimental infection with Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) and monitoring of behavioral alterations in mice using open field and hole-board tests were carried. Mice were sacrificed, then brains histo-pathologically and neuro-chemically assessed. Open field test revealed a decrease in locomotion in both infected mice genders, whereas the hole-board test displayed an increased level of exploration only by infected female mice. Significant changes in the dopamine concentration in the brain with regard to status of infection were detected. The results suggest an association between T. gondii infection and changes in the behavior. Neuromodulators may represent an ideal mechanism by which T. gondii, at least in part of the expression, can influence the behavior of the infected animal or even human host.
ELECTRON SPIN RESONANCE IN PHOSPHORUS-DOPED SILICON
Authors: LIN HUNG-I  , CHENG JUNG  , SHUNG FA-HUA  , CHEN CHANG-LAN  ,   中国科学院
Published: November 2020

In this paper we studied the electron spin resonance in phosphorus-doped silicon, at room temperature and liquid nitrogen, liquid hydrogen temperatures as well as at their temperatures of lower vapour pressure. The concentration for phosphorus impurity is of ～1015—～1018 atom/cm3. A double modulating spectrometer of 3cm band was used.In the experiments, spectral lines for conducting electrons, for surface imperfection centers and for hyperfine structure were observed. The results of experiments also showed the spectral line of interaction between effective electrons and donor nucleus pairs. The g-tactor, the square of the electronic wave function at the donor nucleus,|Ψ(0)|2 , and the electron-nuclear hyperfine interaction constant aD etc., were obtained at 14°K. Our results were approximately in agreement with those obtained by G. Feher at 1.25°K, using electron-nuclear double resonance method.
Neuronal timescales are functionally dynamic and shaped by cortical microarchitecture
Authors: Gao Richard , van den Brink Ruud L , Pfeffer Thomas , Voytek Bradley
Published: November 2020

Complex cognitive functions such as working memory and decision-making require information maintenance over seconds to years, from transient sensory stimuli to long-term contextual cues. While theoretical accounts predict the emergence of a corresponding hierarchy of neuronal timescales, direct electrophysiological evidence across the human cortex is lacking. Here, we infer neuronal timescales from invasive intracranial recordings. Timescales increase along the principal sensorimotor-to-association axis across the entire human cortex, and scale with single-unit timescales within macaques. Cortex-wide transcriptomic analysis shows direct alignment between timescales and expression of excitation- and inhibition-related genes, as well as genes specific to voltage-gated transmembrane ion transporters. Finally, neuronal timescales are functionally dynamic: prefrontal cortex timescales expand during working memory maintenance and predict individual performance, while cortex-wide timescales compress with aging. Thus, neuronal timescales follow cytoarchitectonic gradients across the human cortex and are relevant for cognition in both short and long terms, bridging microcircuit physiology with macroscale dynamics and behavior.
Sense of coherence and risk of breast cancer
Authors: Hu Kejia , Eriksson Mikael , Wengström Yvonne , Czene Kamila , Hall Per , Fang Fang
Published: November 2020

Sense of coherence (SoC) is the origin of health according to Antonovsky. The link between SoC and risk of cancer has however rarely been assessed. We performed a cohort study of 46,436 women from the Karolinska Mammography Project for Risk Prediction of Breast Cancer (Karma). Participants answered a SoC-13 questionnaire at recruitment to Karma and were subsequently followed up for incident breast cancer. Multivariate Cox models were used to assess the hazard ratios (HRs) of breast cancer in relation to SoC. We identified 771 incident cases of breast cancer during follow-up (median time: 5.2 years). No association was found between SoC, either as a categorical (strong vs. weak SoC, HR: 1.08, 95% CI: 0.90–1.29) or continuous (HR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.00–1.17 per standard deviation increase of SoC) variable, and risk of breast cancer. In summary, we found little evidence to support an association between SoC and risk of breast cancer.
Deciphering the combinatorial landscape of immunity
Authors: Cappuccio Antonio , Jensen Shane T , Hartmann Boris M , Sealfon Stuart C , Soumelis Vassili , Zaslavsky Elena
Published: November 2020

From cellular activation to drug combinations, immunological responses are shaped by the action of multiple stimuli. Synergistic and antagonistic interactions between stimuli play major roles in shaping immune processes. To understand combinatorial regulation, we present the immune Synergistic/Antagonistic Interaction Learner (iSAIL). iSAIL includes a machine learning classifier to map and interpret interactions, a curated compendium of immunological combination treatment datasets, and their global integration into a landscape of ~30,000 interactions. The landscape is mined to reveal combinatorial control of interleukins, checkpoints, and other immune modulators. The resource helps elucidate the modulation of a stimulus by interactions with other cofactors, showing that TNF has strikingly different effects depending on co-stimulators. We discover new functional synergies between TNF and IFNβ controlling dendritic cell-T cell crosstalk. Analysis of laboratory or public combination treatment studies with this user-friendly web-based resource will help resolve the complex role of interaction effects on immune processes.
A meta-analysis contrasting active versus passive restoration practices in dryland agricultural ecosystems
Authors: Miguel M. Florencia , Butterfield H. Scott , Lortie Christopher J.
Published: November 2020

Restoration of agricultural drylands globally, here farmlands and grazing lands, is a priority for ecosystem function and biodiversity preservation. Natural areas in drylands are recognized as biodiversity hotspots and face continued human impacts. Global water shortages are driving increased agricultural land retirement providing the opportunity to reclaim some of these lands for natural habitat. We used meta-analysis to contrast different classes of dryland restoration practices. All interventions were categorized as active and passive for the analyses of efficacy in dryland agricultural ecosystems. We evaluated the impact of 19 specific restoration practices from 42 studies on soil, plant, animal, and general habitat targets across 16 countries, for a total of 1,427 independent observations. Passive vegetation restoration and grazing exclusion led to net positive restoration outcomes. Passive restoration practices were more variable and less effective than active restoration practices. Furthermore, passive soil restoration led to net negative restoration outcomes. Active restoration practices consistently led to positive outcomes for soil, plant, and habitat targets. Water supplementation was the most effective restoration practice. These findings suggest that active interventions are necessary and critical in most instances for dryland agricultural ecosystems likely because of severe anthropogenic pressures and concurrent environmental stressors—both past and present.
Suitability of Oyster Mushroom Species for Cultivation in the Southern Zone of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Kumar N. Kiran , Viswanath K. , Sangeetha C. , Krishnamoorthy A. S.
Published: November 2020

The 3 oyster mushroom species namely Pleurotus florida, P. eous, and Hypsizygus ulmarius were evaluated for their biological efficiency (BE) and net returns from the rupee invested (NRRI) in late kharif and rabi seasons. The BE and NRRI of P. florida and H. ulmarius were on par and significantly superior to P. eous in both the seasons. The present study provided corroboration for the suitability of P. florida and H. ulmarius cultivation in the late kharif and rabi seasons whereas, P. eous cultivation in the summer and early kharif seasons. Thus, the season-specific selection of oyster mushroom species promotes the concept of year-round mushroom cultivation.
Business Optimism in COVID-19 Pandemic Period in Indonesia
Authors: Kusumaningrum Dewi Ayu , Hurdawaty Ramon , Yenny Marya
Published: November 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is causing turmoil in the health aspect and spread to the economic sector where most of the economic activity has stopped to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Businesses will be disrupted, including business actors who will experience difficulties and even bankruptcy. The small business sector is most affected by the outbreak of COVID-19 due to the absence of outside activities by most of the community. This research aimed to identify business optimism during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. Cross-sectional designed research with non Probability Sampling using the survey method by distributing online questionnaires (Google Form). The analysis data using SPSS software. The research results stated that the respondents believe that the business they did during the COVID-19 pandemic can still run well, business after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic will be even better. This research is expected to reference future research regarding the business forecast for business actor behavior, business improvement strategies, and other business-related research during the pandemic.
Hot Deformation Behavior and Dynamic Recrystallization Nucleation Mechanisms of Inconel 625 during Hot Compressive Deformation
Authors: Jia Zhi , Sun Xuan , Ji Jinjin , Wang Yanjiang , Wei Baolin , Yu Lidan
Published: November 2020

High‐temperature compression deformation behavior of the Inconel 625 alloy is investigated using hot compression tests. The results regarding the flow behaviors and hot processing map indicate that the optimum condition for plastic deformation is determined to be at temperatures higher that 1050 °C and strain rate from 1 to 10 s−1. Herein, the hot compression microstructure evolution is characterized by electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The results indicate that the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) mechanism is different under different compression deformation conditions. At low temperatures (<1100 °C), continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) with subgrain rotation plays a dominant role in the DRX process. However, as the temperature rises beyond 1100 °C, discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX) with a bulging boundary induced by twinning becomes dominant in the dynamic recrystallization process. The findings provide a theoretical basis for the optimization of the thermoplastic processing of nickel‐based superalloys.
Efficient and Full‐Spectrum Photothermal Dehydrogenation of Ammonia Borane for Low‐Temperature Release of Hydrogen
Authors: Huang Hanlin , Wang Cong , Li Qi , Wang Ruiqi , Yang Yuying , Muhetaer Aidaer , Huang Fuqiang , Han Bing , Xu Dongsheng
Published: November 2020

Efficient hydrogen release from ammonia borane (AB) with a striking hydrogen content (19.6 wt%) via thermolysis provides a promising pathway for on‐board applications utilizing hydrogen energy. However, the sluggish kinetics at low temperatures and high energy consumption of thermal dehydrogenation are major obstacles for hydrogen release from AB. Herein, a novel solar‐driven strategy for hydrogen production from AB at low temperature is proposed, in which Ti2O3 is utilized as a full‐spectrum light absorber for photothermal‐activating solid‐state AB reactants to produce hydrogen. Through a reduction transformation method, nanoscale Ti2O3 particles with high chemical stability and narrow band gap are prepared, realizing a rapid production of 2.0 equivalents of hydrogen from AB at ambient temperature, with an excellent recyclable and full‐spectrum‐responsive photothermal dehydrogenation. Importantly, a record high photothermal activation efficiency of 35% is achieved with nanoscale Ti2O3 particles due to an enhanced local photothermal effect contributed by improved light absorption and decreased thermal conduction. Moreover, assisted with CuCl2 promoter, a release of 2.0 equivalents of hydrogen under 1.0 solar irradiation at 70 °C is successfully achieved, revealing its potential applications in practical vehicles based on proton exchange membrane fuel cells.
Spray‐Dried TiO2(B)‐Containing Photocatalytic Glass‐Ceramic Nanobeads
Authors: Zandona Alessio , Martínez Arias Aurina , Gutbrod Mirjam , Helsch Gundula , Weber Alfred P. , Deubener Joachim
Published: November 2020

Glass‐ceramic nanospheres of molar composition 0.83 SiO2 · 0.17 TiO2 are produced by the sol‐gel spray‐drying method followed by controlled heat treatments up to 1200 °C. TiO2(B) and anatase nanocrystals are precipitated in the glassy matrix: the latter phase gradually predominates with increasing ceramization temperature and time, in parallel to an overall increase in crystal sizes. The nanospheres exhibit evident photocatalytic activity under UV‐A irradiation, especially at annealing stages involving a comparatively higher amount of TiO2(B) and smaller crystals. The occurrence of TiO2(B) in this simplified binary glass‐ceramic material underlines the key role of this phase in the dynamics of crystallizing TiO2‐bearing silicate melts.
Photoactive Conjugated Polymer‐Based Hybrid Biosystems for Enhancing Cyanobacterial Photosynthesis and Regulating Redox State of Protein
Authors: Zeng Yue , Zhou Xin , Qi Ruilian , Dai Nan , Fu Xuancheng , Zhao Hao , Peng Ke , Yuan Haitao , Huang Yiming , Lv Fengting , Liu Libing , Wang Shu
Published: November 2020

Constructing artificial hybrid biosystems, comprising of organisms and organic non‐biological functional material, will afford promising opportunities to achieve brand new or enhanced functions. In this work, a hybrid biosystem is designed and constructed by electrostatically recombining photoactive cationic poly(fluorene‐co‐phenylene) derivative (PFP) with a cyanobacterium (Synechococcus sp. PCC7942, Syne) for enhancing its photosynthesis and regulating exogenous redox state of protein. The light utility efficiency of Syne is significantly improved assisted by the excellent ultraviolet light‐harvesting ability of PFP, which accelerates electron‐transfer rate in non‐cyclic electron transport chain, and further augments the light‐dependent reaction in photosynthesis. As a result, O2, NADPH, and ATP production in the light‐dependent reaction are increased by 52.8%, 47.9%, and 27.2%, respectively. Moreover, the extracellular electron transfer property of Syne is able to realize electronic communication with external circumstances. Specifically, the electrons exported from Syne can reduce exogenous oxidized cytochrome c (Cyt c) and adsorbed PFP has the ability to regulate the reduction degree of Syne to Cyt c. This work reports an ideal design of a conjugated polymer‐based hybrid biosystem, providing a strategy to promote photosynthesis and regulate the redox state of protein.
Polymers Exhibiting Lower Critical Solution Temperatures as a Route to Thermoreversible Gelators for Healthcare
Authors: Cook Michael T. , Haddow Peter , Kirton Stewart B. , McAuley William J.
Published: November 2020

The ability to trigger changes to material properties with external stimuli, so‐called “smart” behavior, has enabled novel technologies for a wide range of healthcare applications. Response to small changes in temperature is particularly attractive, where material transformations may be triggered by contact with the human body. Thermoreversible gelators are materials where warming triggers reversible phase change from low viscosity polymer solution to a gel state. These systems can be generated by the exploitation of macromolecules with lower critical solution temperatures included in their architectures. The resultant materials are attractive for topical and mucosal drug delivery, as well as for injectables. In addition, the materials are attractive for tissue engineering and 3D printing. The fundamental science underpinning these systems is described, along with progress in each class of material and their applications. Significant opportunities exist in the fundamental understanding of how polymer chemistry and nanoscience describe the performance of these systems and guide the rational design of novel systems. Furthermore, barriers to translating technologies must be addressed, for example, rigorous toxicological evaluation is rarely conducted. As such, applications remain tied to narrow fields, and advancements will be made where the existing knowledge in these areas may be applied to novel problems of science.
Stretchable and Twistable Resistive Switching Memory with Information Storage and Computing Functionalities
Authors: Lu Ying , Gao Shuang , Li Fali , Zhou Youlin , Xie Zhuolin , Yang Huali , Xue Wuhong , Hu Benlin , Zhu Xiaojian , Shang Jie , Liu Yiwei , Li Run‐Wei
Published: November 2020

High‐performance stretchable and twistable nonvolatile memory devices with logic‐in‐memory functionality are highly desired for the development of future wearable electronics such as smart clothing. However, it is challenging to fabricate these memory devices using rigid functional materials based on conventional film deposition and patterning techniques. Herein, the first intrinsically stretchable and twistable resistive switching memory is reported using spin‐coated poly(dimethyl siloxane) elastomer as the storage medium and printed liquid metal as the electrodes. The memory device is found to exhibit a reliable resistive switching behavior under up to 30% stretching strain and 90° torsional deformation, possessing a large memory window (≈102) and an excellent retention (>104 s). Under 30% strain, stretching–release endurance of >500 cycles as well as excellent data integrity during the dynamic stretching–release process is demonstrated. Beyond data storage, logic‐in‐memory computation prototype represented by a one‐bit full adder is successfully implemented within four operation steps based on three stretched memory cells. This work will be highly valuable in materials and structure design towards the development of high‐performance and multifunctional wearable electronic modules and systems.
Development of a Mitochondrially Targeted Probe Based on Polyethyleneimine‐(3‐carboxypropyl) Triphenylphosphine‐Modified Quantum Dots for Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Qiang , Ren Bin , Qiao Lu-Lu , Zhang Yan-Bin , Liu Yong-Fang , Xu Jing-Jing , Yang Xiaojing , Zhao Mei-Xia
Published: November 2020

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor particles of a few nanometers in size that have unique optical and electronic properties. These properties include stable high‐intensity fluorescence and strong resistance to light bleaching, making them attractive as imaging agents. Mitochondria play many extremely important roles in cells. During apoptosis, several characteristics of mitochondria change that are exploited using fluorescent imaging probing including QDs. Herein, a mitochondria‐targetable fluorescence probe (CdSe/ZnS@PEI‐TPP) based on QDs is developed by covalently binding low‐molecular‐weight polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐modified CdSe/ZnS QDs with the small molecule (3‐carboxypropyl) triphenylphosphine (TPP). CdSe/ZnS@PEI‐TPP QDs have excellent optical emission properties. The ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometry (UV–vis) and fluorescence spectra of QDs show that TPP is successfully integrated into the QD structure. Cell proliferation measurements from 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assays demonstrate that the modified QDs are less cytotoxic. The modified QDs show high fluorescence in cancer cells in vitro. These data demonstrate that CdSe/ZnS@PEI‐TPP QDs successfully target mitochondria and are used as fluorescence imaging probes.
Thienoisoindigo (TII)‐Based Quinoidal Small Molecules for High‐Performance n‐Type Organic Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Velusamy Arulmozhi , Yu Chih‐Hsin , Afraj Shakil N. , Lin Chia‐Chi , Lo Wei‐Yu , Yeh Chia‐Jung , Wu Ya‐Wen , Hsieh Hsin‐Chun , Chen Jianhua , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Tung Shih‐Huang , Liu Cheng‐Liang , Chen Ming‐Chou , Facchetti Antonio
Published: November 2020

A novel quinoidal thienoisoindigo (TII)‐containing small molecule family with dicyanomethylene end‐capping units and various alkyl chains is synthesized as n‐type organic small molecules for solution‐processable organic field effect transistors (OFETs). The molecular structure of the 2‐hexyldecyl substituted derivative, TIIQ‐b16, is determined via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and shows that the TIIQ core is planar and exhibits molecular layers stacked in a “face‐to‐face” arrangement with short core intermolecular distances of 3.28 Å. The very planar core structure, shortest intermolecular N···H distance (2.52 Å), existence of an intramolecular non‐bonded contact between sulfur and oxygen atom (S···O) of 2.80 Å, and a very low‐lying LUMO energy level of −4.16 eV suggest that TIIQ molecules should be electron transporting semiconductors. The physical, thermal, and electrochemical properties as well as OFET performance and thin film morphologies of these new TIIQs are systematically studied. Thus, air‐processed TIIQ‐b16 OFETs exhibit an electron mobility up to 2.54 cm2 V−1 s−1 with a current ON/OFF ratio of 105–106, which is the first demonstration of TII‐based small molecules exhibiting unipolar electron transport characteristics and enhanced ambient stability. These results indicate that construction of quinoidal molecule from TII moiety is a successful approach to enhance n‐type charge transport characteristics.
A regional analysis model of maize kernel moisture
Authors: Li Lulu , Ming Bo , Gao Shang , Wang Keru , Hou Peng , Jin Xiuliang , Chu Zhendong , Zhang Wanxu , Huang Zhaofu , Li Hongyan , Zhou Xianlin , Bai Shijie , Zhang Zhentao , Xie Ruizhi , Li Shaokun
Published: November 2020

With the popularization of late‐maturing and high‐yielding maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids, high kernel moisture concentration at the usual harvest time has resulted in increased kernel breakage and additional drying costs. To achieve low kernel moisture at harvest in China's maize‐growing areas, there is a need for the selection of fast dry‐down hybrids and the prediction of the ideal harvest time. During 2014–2017, the time‐series kernel moisture concentrations of three maize hybrids were measured in the field in three major maize‐producing regions in China. Our goal was to accurately predict maize kernel dry‐down in the field. We found that the Logistic Power model M = 90/[1 + (T/a)b] could be used to accurately predict the entire dry‐down process of maize kernels across hybrids and regions (concordance correlation coefficient, 0.884–0.996; RMSE, 2.76–5.16%; R2, .943–.986; and coefficient of residual mass, −0.09–0.14), where M is the kernel moisture concentration (wet basis), a and b are parameters that reflect the dry‐down characteristics of the hybrids, and T is the thermal time (°C d) from silking based on mean daily temperature over the periods of grain‐filling and grain‐drying. This work provides a new and convenient model for predicting kernel moisture concentration and evaluating the dry‐down characteristics of hybrids using parameters a and b.
A Prodromal Brain‐Clinical Pattern of Cognition in Synucleinopathies
Authors: Rahayel Shady , Postuma Ronald B. , Montplaisir Jacques , Mišić Bratislav , Tremblay Christina , Vo Andrew , Lewis Simon , Matar Elie , Ehgoetz Martens Kaylena , Blanc Frédéric , Yao Chun , Carrier Julie , Monchi Oury , Gaubert Malo , Dagher Alain , Gagnon Jean‐François
Published: November 2020

Objective

Isolated (or idiopathic) rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) is associated with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Biomarkers are lacking to predict conversion to a dementia or a motor‐first phenotype. Here, we aimed at identifying a brain‐clinical signature that predicts dementia in iRBD.

Methods

A brain‐clinical signature was identified in 48 patients with polysomnography‐confirmed iRBD using partial least squares between brain deformation and 27 clinical variables. The resulting variable was applied to 78 patients with iRBD followed longitudinally to predict conversion to a synucleinopathy, specifically DLB. The deformation scores from patients with iRBD were compared with 207 patients with PD, DLB, or prodromal DLB to assess if scores were higher in DLB compared to PD.

Results

One latent variable explained 31% of the brain‐clinical covariance in iRBD, combining cortical and subcortical deformation and subarachnoid/ventricular expansion to cognitive and motor variables. The deformation score of this signature predicted conversion to a synucleinopathy in iRBD (p = 0.036, odds ratio [OR] = 2.249; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.053–4.803), specifically to DLB (OR = 4.754; 95% CI = 1.283–17.618, p = 0.020) and not PD (p = 0.286). Patients with iRBD who developed dementia had scores similar to clinical and prodromal patients with DLB but higher scores compared with patients with PD. The deformation score also predicted cognitive performance over 1, 2, and 4 years in patients with PD.

Interpretation

We identified a brain‐clinical signature that predicts conversion in iRBD to more severe/dementing forms of synucleinopathy. This pattern may serve as a new biomarker to optimize patient care, target risk reduction strategies, and administer neuroprotective trials. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:341–357
The Impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 on Stroke Epidemiology and Care: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Katsanos Aristeidis H. , Palaiodimou Lina , Zand Ramin , Yaghi Shadi , Kamel Hooman , Navi Babak B. , Turc Guillaume , Romoli Michele , Sharma Vijay K. , Mavridis Dimitris , Shahjouei Shima , Catanese Luciana , Shoamanesh Ashkan , Vadikolias Konstantinos , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Lagiou Pagona , Alexandrov Andrei V. , Tsiodras Sotirios , Tsivgoulis Georgios
Published: November 2020

Objective

Emerging data indicate an increased risk of cerebrovascular events with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and highlight the potential impact of coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) on the management and outcomes of acute stroke. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the aforementioned considerations.

Methods

We performed a meta‐analysis of observational cohort studies reporting on the occurrence and/or outcomes of patients with cerebrovascular events in association with their SARS‐CoV‐2 infection status. We used a random‐effects model. Summary estimates were reported as odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

We identified 18 cohort studies including 67,845 patients. Among patients with SARS‐CoV‐2, 1.3% (95% CI = 0.9–1.6%, I2 = 87%) were hospitalized for cerebrovascular events, 1.1% (95% CI = 0.8–1.3%, I2 = 85%) for ischemic stroke, and 0.2% (95% CI = 0.1–0.3%, I2 = 64%) for hemorrhagic stroke. Compared to noninfected contemporary or historical controls, patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection had increased odds of ischemic stroke (OR = 3.58, 95% CI = 1.43–8.92, I2 = 43%) and cryptogenic stroke (OR = 3.98, 95% CI = 1.62–9.77, I2 = 0%). Diabetes mellitus was found to be more prevalent among SARS‐CoV‐2 stroke patients compared to noninfected historical controls (OR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.00–1.94, I2 = 0%). SARS‐CoV‐2 infection status was not associated with the likelihood of receiving intravenous thrombolysis (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 0.65–3.10, I2 = 0%) or endovascular thrombectomy (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.35–1.74, I2 = 0%) among hospitalized ischemic stroke patients during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Odds of in‐hospital mortality were higher among SARS‐CoV‐2 stroke patients compared to noninfected contemporary or historical stroke patients (OR = 5.60, 95% CI = 3.19–9.80, I2 = 45%).

Interpretation

SARS‐CoV‐2 appears to be associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke, and potentially cryptogenic stroke in particular. It may also be related to an increased mortality risk. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:380–388
Vorbeugen oder Heilen – die beispiellose Notwendigkeit von selbstberichtenden Materialien
Authors: Geiselhart Christina M. , Mutlu Hatice , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: November 2020

Selbstberichtende intelligente Materialien sind in der modernen Polymer‐Materialwissenschaft von großer Bedeutung, da sie die autonome Erkennung von Veränderungen in synthetischen Polymeren, Materialien oder Verbundstoffen ermöglichen. Obwohl diese Materialien wichtige Vorteile bieten, haben sie wesentlich weniger Aufmerksamkeit erhalten als selbstheilende Materialien. Die Rückmeldung über Systemveränderungen und deren genaue Position ist jedoch von größter Bedeutung, um eine Ausbreitung zu verhindern. Daher geben wir hier einen kritischen Überblick über die Chemie selbstberichtender weicher Materialien und zeigen auf, wie aktuelle Herausforderungen und Einschränkungen durch die Übertragung selbstberichtender Forschungskonzepte aus dem Labor in die Industrie überwunden werden können. Besonders im Bereich der diagnostischen selbstberichtenden Systeme weist die jüngste SARS‐CoV‐2‐Pandemie auf einen dringenden Bedarf an solchen Konzepten hin, welche die Anwesenheit von Viren oder Bakterien auf und in Materialien auf selbstberichtende Weise anzeigen.
Kinetic Limitations in Single‐Crystal High‐Nickel Cathodes
Authors: Ge Mingyuan , Wi Sungun , Liu Xiang , Bai Jianming , Ehrlich Steven , Lu Deyu , Lee Wah‐Keat , Chen Zonghai , Wang Feng
Published: November 2020

High‐nickel cathodes attract immense interest for use in lithium‐ion batteries to boost Li‐storage capacity while reducing cost. For overcoming the intergranular‐cracking issue in polycrystals, single‐crystals are considered an appealing alternative, but aggravating concerns on compromising the ionic transport and kinetic properties. We report here a quantitative assessment of redox reaction in single‐crystal LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 using operando hard X‐ray microscopy/spectroscopy, revealing a strong dependence of redox kinetics on the state of charge (SOC). Specifically, the redox is sluggish at low SOC but increases rapidly as SOC increases, both in bulk electrodes and individual particles. The observation is corroborated by transport measurements and finite‐element simulation, indicating that the sluggish kinetics in single‐crystals is governed by ionic transport at low SOC and may be alleviated through synergistic interaction with polycrystals integrated into a same electrode.
An ER‐Targeting Iridium(III) Complex That Induces Immunogenic Cell Death in Non‐Small‐Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Lili , Guan Ruilin , Xie Lina , Liao Xinxing , Xiong Kai , Rees Thomas W. , Chen Yu , Ji Liangnian , Chao Hui
Published: November 2020

Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a vital component of therapeutically induced anti‐tumor immunity. An iridium(III) complex (Ir1), containing anN,N‐bis(2‐chloroethyl)‐azane derivate, as an endoplasmic reticulum‐localized ICD inducer for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is reported. The characteristic discharge of damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), that is, cell surface exposure of calreticulin (CRT), extracellular exclusion of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and ATP, were generated byIr1in A549 lung cancer cells, accompanied by an increase in endoplasmic reticulum stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The vaccination of immunocompetent mice withIr1‐treated dying cells elicited an antitumor CD8+T cell response and Foxp3+T cell depletion, which eventually resulted in long‐acting anti‐tumor immunity by the activation of ICD in lung cancer cells.Ir1is the first Ir‐based complex that is capable of developing an immunomodulatory response by immunogenic cell death.
Cationic Boron Formazanate Dyes**
Authors: Maar Ryan R. , Katzman Benjamin D. , Boyle Paul D. , Staroverov Viktor N. , Gilroy Joe B.
Published: November 2020

Incorporation of cationic boron atoms into molecular frameworks is an established strategy for creating chemical species with unusual bonding and reactivity but is rarely thought of as a way of enhancing molecular optoelectronic properties. Using boron formazanate dyes as examples, we demonstrate that the wavelengths, intensities, and type of the first electronic transitions in BN heterocycles can be modulated by varying the charge, coordination number, and supporting ligands at the cationic boron atom. UV‐vis absorption spectroscopy measurements and density‐functional (DFT) calculations show that these modulations are caused by changes in the geometry and extent of π‐conjugation of the boron formazanate ring. These findings suggest a new strategy for designing optoelectronic materials based on π‐conjugated heterocycles containing boron and other main‐group elements.
Synthesis of Anthracene‐Based Cyclic π‐Clusters and Elucidation of their Properties Originating from Congested Aromatic Planes
Authors: Nishiuchi Tomohiko , Kisaka Kazuki , Kubo Takashi
Published: November 2020

Synthesis and properties of anthracene‐based cyclic π‐clusters which possess two and four anthracene units are discussed. The optimal cyclization conditions were determined based on a nickel(0)‐mediated reaction that afforded a cyclic anthracene dimer as the major product. Bringing two anthracene planes in close proximity in a face‐to‐face manner resulted in red‐shifted absorption owing to the narrowing of the HOMO–LUMO gap. The cyclic anthracene dimer exhibits multi‐stimuli responsiveness due to high π‐congestion. For example, photoirradiation on the anthracene dimer affords its photoisomer having C−C bonds that are longer than 1.65 Å, which can undergo thermal reversion under gentle heating. This enabled mechanochromism of the photoisomer (colorless) to the original anthracene dimer (red). Photoisomerization was also observed in the crystalline state, accompanied by crystal jumping or collapsing, that is, the photosalient effect.
Almost 100 % Peroxymonosulfate Conversion to Singlet Oxygen on Single‐Atom CoN2+2 Sites
Authors: Mi Xueyue , Wang Pengfei , Xu Shizhe , Su Lina , Zhong Hui , Wang Haitao , Li Yi , Zhan Sihui
Published: November 2020

Single‐atom CoN4 active sites have demonstrated excellent efficiency in peroxymonosulfate activation. However, the identification of CoN4 active sites and the detailed singlet oxygen generation mechanism in peroxymonosulfate activation remains ambiguous. We demonstrate a strategy to regulate the generation of reactive oxygen species by atomically dispersed cobalt anchored on nitrogen‐doped carbon. As indicated by experiment and DFT calculations, CoN2+2 was the active site and singlet oxygen was the predominant reactive oxygen species with a proportion of 98.89 %. Spontaneous dissociation of adsorbed peroxymonosulfate on the CoN2+2 active sites was energetically unfavorable because of the weakly positive Co atoms and CoN2+2 coordination, which directed PMS oxidation by a non‐radical pathway and with simultaneous singlet oxygen generation. The generated singlet oxygen degraded several organic pollutants with high efficiency across a broad pH range.
Minireview: Applications of NMR‐based metabolomics for the detection and characterisation of toxoplasmosis in felids
Authors: Hunter Elena , Wilson Philippe B.
Published: November 2020

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the intercellular protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite has the three‐stage life cycle: oocysts, tachyzoites, and bradyzoites. Felids are the only known hosts for the sexual reproduction of T. gondii and, therefore, play a crucial role in the transmission of toxoplasmosis. A single cat could spread the parasite to many hosts. Due to the intercellular nature of the parasite, T. gondii strongly depends on a host's metabolism in order to leverage carbon and nutrient sources. Therefore, the parasite could be detected in body fluids via observation and analysis of metabolic alterations. A range of analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography, and Raman spectroscopy could be applied for the analysis of body fluids of infected animals. However, NMR consists of highly specific analytical techniques due to high reproducibility, availability of a variety of databases, and the ability to obtain the structures of unknown compounds. We present the current extent of NMR‐based metabolomics on felid toxoplasmosis and suggest future considerations.
A rapid and cost‐effective method based on dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction coupled to injection port silylation‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry for determination of morphine in illicit opium
Authors: Jain Rajeev , Singh Meenu , Kumari Aparna , Tripathi Rohitshva Mani
Published: November 2020

A simple, rapid, cost‐effective and environment friendly analytical method based on dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction (DLLME) coupled to injection port silylation (IPS)–gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry is described for the determination of morphine in illicit opium samples. Raw opium was dispersed in ultrapure water and 5 mL of aqueous sample was subjected to DLLME by rapidly injecting a mixture of chloroform and acetone (extraction and disperser solvent, respectively) followed by ultrasonication for 1 min and subsequent centrifugation for 3 min at 5000 rpm. The sedimented phase thus obtained was reconstituted in acetonitrile and 1 µL along with 1 µL of N,O‐Bis(trimethylsilyl)acetamide (BSA) was injected manually into GC‐MS injection port at a temperature of 250°C. The derivatization reaction was completed instantaneously inside the heated GC‐MS injection port without any side product. Various parameters associated with IPS and DLLME have been thoroughly optimized. Under the optimized conditions, the method has been found linear in the range of 5‐50 µg/mL with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.997. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for morphine‐diTMS were found to be 1.6 and 4.8 µg/mL. The method has been successfully applied for the quantitative analysis of morphine in illicit opium samples. In conclusion, the proposed method has completely eliminated the time consuming and laborious steps of LLE and in‐vial silylation and can be routinely used for analysis of opium and other polar analytes in forensic science laboratories.
Acrylic‐based fire‐retardant coatings for steel protection: Employing the concept of in situ ceramization
Authors: Anees Sheik Mohamed , Dasari Aravind
Published: November 2020

Traditional intumescent coatings are widely used as passive fire‐protective coatings for steel structures as they are capable of expanding in the range of 20–50 times the original thickness thereby providing excellent insulation. However, the fragile nature of such residue and susceptibility to thermo‐oxidation given their carbonaceous nature are key problematic issues. The concept of in situ ceramization is explored in this work as a means to form inorganic cohesive char with improved rigidity and thermo‐oxidative stability. Coating samples were prepared by incorporating ammonium polyphosphate, talc, Mg(OH)2, and polydimethylsiloxane as additives into acrylic resin at different weight fractions. Thermal analysis and x‐ray diffraction have confirmed the reactions between the additives to form various crystalline magnesium phosphate phases, and to a small extent, silicon phosphate, thereby ensuring the thermo‐oxidative stability of the residue. This is reiterated by the fire performance tests (by exposing the coatings to a temperature profile in a furnace similar to ISO 834 fire curve). Despite the advantages of rigid char and its thermo‐oxidative stability as a result of formation of inorganic phosphates, the lack of swelling has resulted in relatively poor insulation capabilities of the char, and subsequently, compromised the fire protection times (that are in the range of 45–55 min). However, pyrolysis flow combustion calorimeter results of the coatings are promising and have shown a significant drop of up to 70% in the peak of heat release rate values as compared to neat resin.
Gross Anatomy Education in China during the Covid‐19 Pandemic: A National Survey
Authors: Cheng Xin , Chan Lap Ki , Pan San‐Qiang , Cai Hongmei , Li Yun‐Qing , Yang Xuesong
Published: November 2020

The Covid‐19 pandemic launched the use of online courses in Chinese medical schools during February 2020. To evaluate the state of gross anatomy education in China during the pandemic, a nationwide survey was conducted through convenience sampling by email or respondent invitations on social media. A total of 359 questionnaires were received from the respondents. The first response from a given school was included in the study to represent that school, thus, 77 questionnaires were used for analyses. Schools represented were from all provinces in mainland China as well as Hong Kong and Macao. The survey found that before the pandemic, 74.0% and 33.8% of the 77 schools conducted online theoretical and practical sessions, respectively, on gross anatomy, and 36 (46.8% of 77) had temporarily suspended practical sessions at the time the survey was conducted. Body donation programs were also affected with 26.0% and 27.3% of the 77 schools having suspended donation programs or saw a decreased number of donations. During the pandemic, 40.3% of the 77 schools kept or initiated the implementation of active learning, and online assessment was continued in 49.4% of the 77 medical schools. Another 26 (33.8%) schools initiated online assessment during the pandemic. A total of 359 answers were included for the analysis of the “teachers’ perception of the online teaching experience.” Over half (51.0%) of the 359 responded teachers were very statisfied or satisfied with the effectiveness of online teaching during the pandemic. A total of 36.2% of these respondents preferred to implement online teaching of theoretical sessions after the pandemic, and 89 (24.8%) teachers were keen to return to traditional face‐to‐face anatomy education.
Syntheses and Properties of (Nitronyl nitroxide)‐substituted Tri‐phenylamine ortho‐Bridged by Two Oxygen and Sulfur Atoms
Authors: Yokoyama Naoki , Tanaka Nobuaki , Fujimoto Natsumi , Tanaka Rika , Suzuki Shuichi , Shiomi Daisuke , Sato Kazunobu , Takui Takeji , Kozaki Masatoshi , Okada Keiji
Published: November 2020

A nitronyl nitroxide unit (NN) was linked with a triphenylamine‐based condensed polycyclic skeleton DOTT to form a radical substituted donor NN‐DOTT. X‐ray crystal structure analysis demonstrated a flat bowl shape of the DOTT unit. EPR spectra showed the localization of electron spin on the NN unit. Chemical oxidation of the DOTT unit produced radical‐substituted radical cation salts NN‐DOTT+ ⋅ SbF6− and NN‐DOTT+ ⋅ FeBr4− that are stable under ambient conditions. The magnetic behavior of NN‐DOTT+ ⋅ SbF6− is characterized by the strong intramolecular ferromagnetic interaction between NN and DOTT+. The X‐ray structural analysis of NN‐DOTT+ ⋅ FeBr4− shows planar structure of DOTT and 1D mixed‐stack column of NN‐DOTT+ and FeBr4−. Magnetic measurements established that NN‐DOTT+ ⋅ FeBr4− undergoes magnetic phase transition into a weak ferromagnet at 7 K.
Using behavior contracts to improve behavior of children and adolescents in multiple settings
Authors: Edgemon Anna Kate , Rapp John T. , Coon Jodi C. , Cruz‐Khalili Amir , Brogan Kristen M. , Richling Sarah M.
Published: November 2020

Research has shown that behavior contracts, a form of contingency management, can promote a wide range of behavior changes for individuals in varied populations; however, relatively few studies have been conducted in nonacademic settings. In the context of two service projects, we evaluated the extent to which behavior contracts improved problem behavior for 11 children and adolescents in residential treatment facilities and foster homes using nonconcurrent multiple baseline across participants’ designs with three or more tiers and supplemental statistical analysis for each tier. Practitioners in each setting implemented individualized behavior contracts for 5 to 59 weeks. Results show that behavior improved substantially for six participants but was relatively unchanged for the other five participants. We discuss the limitations of this clinically driven study, as well as clinical implications of our mixed findings.
Mangiferin and organ fibrosis: A mini review
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Huang Cheng , Fan Shengjie
Published: November 2020

Fibrosis is the end stage of many chronic diseases, which results in organ function failure and high mortality. Mangiferin is a major constituent in mango and other 16 plants, and has been shown a variety of pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti‐tumor, anti‐inflammation. The emerging evidence has shown that mangiferin can improve renal interstitial fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, myocardial fibrosis and hepatic fibrosis through the inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrogenesis effects, indicating that mangiferin is promising therapeutic choice for organ fibrosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the therapeutic effects of mangiferin on fibrosis of various organs and the underlying mechanisms.