bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is there a nonlinear relationship between public investment and private investment? Evidence from 21 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development countries
Authors: Marcos Sofia São , Vale Sofia
Published: October 2022

This paper studies the relationship between public investment and private investment in a sample of 21 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries between 2000 and 2019. Using panel data nonlinear threshold regression models, the empirical results show that there exist threshold levels for the share of public investment in private investment, the real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate and the real interest rate that affect the relationship between public and private investment. All estimates support a crowding‐in effect of public investment on private investment. In terms of policy prescriptions, by increasing public investment, OECD governments can expect positive spillovers to private investment.
Endocannabinoids effect on oxidative status of human platelets
Authors: Signorello Maria Grazia , Ravera Silvia , Leoncini Giuliana
Published: October 2022

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to regulate platelet activation. Since endocannabinoids behave as platelet agonists, we investigated the effect of two endocannabinoids, 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2AG) and anandamide (AEA) on the oxidative status of human platelets. We have demonstrated that 2AG and AEA stimulate ROS production, superoxide anion formation and lipid peroxidation. The effect is dose and time dependent and mainly occurs through the involvement of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) since all tested parameters are greatly reduced by SR141716, the CB1 specific inhibitor. The specific inhibitor of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) SR144528 produces a very small inhibition. The involvement of syk/PI3K/AKT/mTor pathway in oxidative stress induced by endocannabinoids is shown. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase seems to be poorly involved in the endocannabinoids effect. Concerning the aerobic metabolism, it has been demonstrated that endocannabinoids reduce the oxygen consumption and adenosine triphosphate synthesis, both in the presence of pyruvate + malate or succinate. In addition, endocannabinoids inhibit the activity of respiratory complexes II, III and IV and increase the activity of respiratory complex I. The endocannabinoids effect on aerobic metabolism seems to be also a CB1 mediated mechanism. Thus, in human platelets oxidative stress induced by endocannabinoids, mainly generated in the respiratory chain through the activation of complex I and the inhibition of complex II, III and IV, may lead to thrombotic events, contributing to cardiovascular diseases.
Collaborative control of branching ratio in the O + HO2 → OH + O2 reaction via vibrational and rotational excitation
Authors: Chen Qixin , Hu Xixi , Xie Daiqian
Published: October 2022

To understand the effect of different vibrational and rotational modes of reactant to enhance the reactivity of the O + HO2 → OH + O2 reaction, we revisited this important atmospheric reaction. We report here a quasi‐classical trajectory (QCT) study of the reaction dynamics on a recently developed full‐dimensional potential energy surface (PES). Our previous work has indicated that this reaction has two pathways, the H abstraction (HA) channel and the O abstraction (OA) channel, which lead to totally different product energy distribution. In this work, we identified that the vibrational excitation of the OH stretching (v1) mode of HO2 is the switch of the HA channel at low collision energy; meanwhile, the rotational excitation can also greatly change the branching ratio of the two pathways. With the excitation of v1 mode, the original negligible HA channel controlled by the tight transition state becomes quite important. This work presents an approach to control the branching ratio via collaboration between vibrational and rotational excitation and will enrich the knowledge of the O + HO2 reaction in atmospheric chemistry and physics.
Indole‐3‐carbinol ameliorated the neurodevelopmental deficits in neonatal anoxic injury in rats
Authors: Ramakrishna Kakarla , Krishnamurthy Sairam
Published: October 2022

Neonatal anoxia is linked to long‐lasting neurodevelopmental deficits. Due to the lack of pharmacological intervention to treat neonatal anoxia, there is interest in finding new molecules for its treatment. Indole‐3‐carbinol (I3C) has shown neuroprotective effects in some disease conditions. However, the neuroprotective role of I3C in neonatal anoxia has not been explored. Consequently, we have investigated the effect of I3C on neonatal anoxia‐induced brain injury and neurodevelopmental deficits. Rat pups after 30 h of birth were subjected to two episodes of anoxia (10 min in each) at a time interval of 24 h by flowing 100% nitrogen. I3C was administered within 30 min of the second episode of anoxia on a postnatal day (PND) 3 and continued for PND 9. Neurodevelopmental deficits, cortical mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP), electron transport chain (ETC) enzyme activities, oxidative stress, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) levels, histopathological changes, and apoptosis were measured. I3C treatment dose‐dependently ameliorated the neurodevelopmental deficits and somatic growth in anoxic pups. I3C improved mitochondrial function by enhancing the MMP, mitochondrial ETC enzymes, and antioxidants. It blocked the MPTP opening and release of cytochrome C in anoxic pups. Further, I3C reduced the elevated cortical HIF‐1α in neonatal anoxic pups. Furthermore, I3C ameliorated histopathological abnormalities and mitochondrial‐mediated apoptotic indicators Cyt C, caspase‐9, and caspase‐3. Our study concludes that I3C improved neuronal development in anoxic pups by enhancing mitochondrial function, reducing HIF‐1α, and mitigating apoptosis.
Physiological and transcriptomic analysis reveal the regulatory mechanism underlying grain quality improvement induced by rice ratooning
Authors: Lin Feifan , Huang Jinwen , Lin Sheng , Letuma Puleng , Xie Daoxin , Rensing Christopher , Lin Wenxiong
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Ratoon rice cropping has been introduced for increased rice production in southern China and, as a result, has been becoming increasingly popular. However, only a few studies have addressed the regulatory mechanism underlying grain quality improvement induced by rice ratooning.

RESULTS

In this study, parameters of rice quality, including head rice yield, chalky grain percentage, grain chalkiness degree, hardness and taste value, were shown to be much improved in the ratooning season rice as compared to its counterparts main and late cropping season rice, indicating that such an improvement was irrespective of seasonal effects. In addition, the nutritional components of grains varied greatly between main‐cropping season rice, ratooning season rice and late‐cropping season rice and displayed a significant correlation with rice quality. Finally, the regulatory mechanism underlying rice quality improvement revealed that gibberellin‐dominated regulation and plant hormone signal transduction jointly contributed to a decrease in formation of chalky grains.

CONCLUSION

This work improves our knowledge on rice quality improvement under rice ratooning, particularly on the regulatory mechanism of plant hormones. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of pullulan‐based nanocomposite films reinforced with starch nanocrystals for the preservation of fresh beef
Authors: Dai Miaoqi , Xiong Xiong , Cheng Anwei , Zhao Zhengtao , Xiao Qian
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Incorporation of polysaccharide‐based nanofillers is an effective strategy to fabricate bio‐nanocomposite films with preferable mechanical, barrier, and surface hydrophobicity properties compared to pure biopolymer films. The objective of this research is to investigate the influence of starch nanocrystals obtained from native (NSNC) and waxy rice starch (WSNC) on the physical–chemical properties of pullulan‐based nanocomposite films and their preservation performance on fresh beef.

RESULTS

Continuous SNCs network structure was observed for pullulan‐10% SNCs nanocomposite films, whereas the percolation network of SNCs was destroyed and became no longer continuous with increasing SNCs concentration up to 20% in pullulan films. Among the tested films, pullulan‐10% SNCs films showed the highest TS values, lowest WVP and OTR values, due to the formation of percolating SNCs network in pullulan matrix. It is noteworthy that the WVP and OTR values of pullulan‐10% WSNC films were significantly lower than that of pullulan‐10% NSNC films, probably due to higher hydrophobicity and crystallinity of WSNC compared with NSNC. Beef pieces coated with pullulan‐SNCs films had higher L* and a* values, lower TVB‐N, TBARS, and TVC values during 7 days' storage at 4 °C compared with samples coated with pullulan films.

CONCLUSION

Pullulan‐SNCs nanocomposite films, especially pullulan‐WSNC films, could be potentially used as a coating material for fresh beef due to their desirable oxygen and water barrier properties. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Characterization of aroma compounds and effects of amino acids on the release of esters in Laimao baijiu
Authors: Niu Yunwei , Zhao Wenqi , Xiao Zuobing , Zhu Jiancai , Xiong Wen , Chen Feng
Published: October 2022

Background

Laimao baijiu is a typical soy‐sauce aroma‐type baijiu in China. Amino acids are non‐volatile compounds in baijiu and are beneficial to human health. Aroma is one of the important indicators that are used to evaluate the quality of baijiu. The interaction between aroma‐active compounds and non‐volatile compounds can also affect the release of aroma compounds. In this study, we identified the active‐aroma compounds and amino acids in Laimao baijiu by stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE), gas chromatography‐olfactometry (GC‐O), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS). The interaction between amino acids and key esters was investigated by sensory analysis and partition coefficients.

Results

A total of 63 aroma compounds and 21 amino acids were identified. Twenty‐one esters were identified from them as major aroma‐active ester compounds with odor activity values ≥ 1. Finally, sensory analysis revealed that l‐alanine had a significant effect on the strength of the aromas of esters, suggesting that low concentrations of amino acids were more likely to promote the release of esters and high concentrations were more likely to inhibit this. The partition coefficient can be a good explanation for this phenomenon.

Conclusion

l‐Alanine can significantly affect the aroma intensity of key ester aroma compounds in Laimao baijiu, and the effects of different concentrations of amino acids are different. This work shows that amino acids, as non‐volatile compounds, have a regulatory effect on the release of aroma compounds in alcoholic beverages, which may provide new technical support for the aroma modulation of alcoholic beverages. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Transforming agrifood systems in a win–win for health and environment: evidence from organic rice–duck coculture
Authors: Gao Hui , Dai Linxiu , Xu Qiang , Gao Pinglei , Dou Zhi
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Rice–duck coculture is an ecological agricultural mode; however, the nutritional and environmental benefits of transforming from conventional rice monoculture to rice–duck coculture are unknown. Based on survey data and the life‐cycle assessment approach, this study conducted a carbon footprint evaluation of conventional rice monoculture (CR), organic rice monoculture (OR), and organic rice–duck coculture (ORD) using different functional units.

RESULTS

The carbon footprint per hectare of ORD (7842 ± 284 kg CO2eq ha−1) was slightly lower than that of CR (7905 ± 412 kg CO2eq ha−1), while higher than that of OR (7786 ± 235 kg CO2eq ha−1). Although the rice yield of ORD was slightly lower than that of CR, its nutrient density unit (NDU) did not decrease significantly due to the additional duck yield. Thus, the carbon footprint per NDU of ORD was significantly lower than that of OR by 24.3% (P < 0.05) and was 5.8% higher than that of CR, but this was not statistically significant. Due to the higher economic profits of ORD, its unit of carbon footprint per economic profit was significantly reduced (by 47.1–75.7%) compared with the other two farming modes, while the net ecosystem economic budget was significantly increased by 98.5–341.9% (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Transforming from a rice monoculture to a coculture system will contribute to a win–win situation for human health and environmental sustainability. This study highlighted the abundant nutritional output function of the rice–duck coculture and analyzed the urgency and necessity of transitioning from traditional agriculture to ecological agriculture from the production and consumption perspectives. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ruthenium(III) catalyzed oxidation of paracetamol by chloramine‐T in aqueous alkaline medium – A kinetic and mechanistic pathway
Authors: Pareek Deepmala , Rolaniya Asha , Bhasin Menka , Sailani Riya
Published: October 2022

The kinetic study of ruthenium(III) chloride catalyzed oxidation of paracetamol by N‐chloro‐p‐toluene sulfonamide (chloramine‐T) in the alkaline medium has been performed. The reaction exhibits second order nature and the effect of the catalyst indicates the occurrence of uncatalyzed reaction simultaneously. Rate is decelerated by hydroxide ions. A plausible reaction mechanism has been suggested and the rate law is derived to account for such experiential observations. The activation parameters have been calculated. No evidence of the participation of free radicals is observed.
Positive Predictive Value of Endoscopic Findings to Diagnose Vocal Fold Paresis
Authors: Rapoport Sarah K. , Basharat Usmaan , Kirke Diana N. , Courey Mark S.
Published: October 2022

Objective

Laryngoscopy corresponding with laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) is essential in diagnosing vocal fold paresis. However, baseline asymmetry or other diseases oftentimes confound the exam, making diagnosis difficult. There is currently no agreed upon endoscopic criteria proven to reliably correlate with LEMG findings. We define a set of endoscopic findings termed “paresis triad” that, when present together, reliably correlate with LEMG. The paresis triad consists of (1) hypocontraction of the weak side of the larynx with increased ventricular show, (2) hypercontraction of the intact side with bulging of the false fold covering the ventricle, and (3) tilting of the interarytenoid cleft to the weak side.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients with laryngeal asymmetry on laryngoscopy. Patients were divided into two groups: those with consistent paresis triad findings across all pitches and intensities, and those without. All patients underwent LEMG by a neurolaryngologist blinded to the laryngoscopic findings. The endoscopies were then rereviewed in a blinded manner by a second laryngologist to assess inter‐ and intrarater reliability for identification of the triad.

Results

Twelve patients met inclusion criteria (age 50 +/−15, 7F:5M). Nine had the paresis triad. Three had an inconsistent triad. All patients with the paresis triad had LEMG findings consistent with neurologic injury on the suspected side. All patients with inconsistent triad findings had normal LEMG.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest the proposed laryngoscopic paresis triad may be useful objective criteria to diagnose paresis without the need for LEMG. Further prospective studies should examine a larger series of patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:1712–1716, 2023
Surface productivity gradients govern changes in the viability of deep ocean prokaryotes across the tropical and subtropical Atlantic
Authors: Gómez‐Letona Markel , Arístegui Javier , Hernández‐Hernández Nauzet , Pérez‐Lorenzo María , Álvarez‐Salgado Xosé Antón , Teira Eva , Sebastián Marta
Published: October 2022

Prokaryotes represent a major fraction of marine biomass and play a key role in the global carbon cycle. We studied the vertical profiles (0–3500 m) of abundance, viability, and activity of prokaryotic communities along a productivity gradient in the subtropical and tropical Atlantic to assess whether there is a vertical linkage between surface productivity regimes and deep ocean prokaryotic communities. We found that latitudinal changes in the vertical patterns of cytometric variables were coupled with surface productivity: higher prokaryotic abundances and viabilities, and smaller cell sizes were observed below highly productive surface waters, an effect reaching down to the bathypelagic layer. Leucine uptake rates in deep waters showed no clear relationship with surface productivity. Changes in resource and energy allocation to growth vs. maintenance in hostile environments, cell‐size‐dependent metabolic requirements, and variability in leucine‐to‐carbon conversion may all be part of the array of factors involved in controlling the prokaryotic activity patterns that were measured. Our work adds to the recent findings that highlight the importance of vertical connectivity for prokaryotic communities in the dark ocean and unveils a remarkable impact of surface conditions in the viability of deep ocean prokaryotes. This is a key aspect when considering metabolic rates of prokaryotic communities in the bathypelagic realm.
Spectral Tuning, Stabilities under External Exposures, and Spontaneous Enhancement of Emission Intensity in Grown‐into‐Glass All‐Inorganic Metal Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Kang Fengwen , Du Yongping , Yang Ze , Boutinaud Philippe , Wubs Martijn , Xu Jie , Ou Haiyan , Li Dongzhe , Zheng Kaibo , Tarekegne Abebe T. , Sun Guohuan , Xu Xuhui , Xiao Sanshui
Published: October 2022

Herein, the grown‐into‐glass (GIG) CsPbBr3:Ln3+ (Ln = La, Lu) nanocrystals (NCs) are designed and fabricated using an in situ nanocrystallization method. It is shown that a substitution of Pb2+ sites with Ln3+ ions leads to a blueshift of emission position induced by an increase of the bandgap of CsPbBr3. Additionally, the GIG‐samples are found to feature excellent photoluminescent (PL) properties after being immersed respectively in water for 300 days at room temperature, boiling water for 12 h, and corrosive environments for 24 h, as well as recoverable PL intensity either after several cycles of heat‐cooling experiments or after being continuously exposed to a 405 nm laser irradiation. Besides, a spontaneous enhancement of 20‐25% of emission intensity during the 1‐2.5 hours' stage of a 405 nm laser irradiation, attributed to the radiative recombination of charge carriers that can be de‐trapped from trapping levels upon the laser light irradiation and that then spontaneously reinforces the emission intensity, is observed in the GIG‐CsPbBr3:Ln3+ NCs. Finally, a white light‐emitting prototype, with a CIE chromaticity coordinate at (0.4110, 0.3706), a color rendering index of 89 and a correlated color temperature of 3363 K is realized by combining the GIG‐CsPbBr3 NCs, YAG:Ce and CaWO4:Eu phosphors.
Betti numbers of stable map spaces to Grassmannians
Authors: Bagnarol Massimo
Published: October 2022

Let be the coarse moduli space of stable degreedmaps fromn‐pointed genus 0 curves to a Grassmann variety . We provide a recursive method for the computation of the Hodge numbers and the Betti numbers of for allnandd. Our method is a generalization of Getzler and Pandharipande's work for maps to projective spaces.
On the existence of multiple solutions for fractional Brezis–Nirenberg‐type equations
Authors: Mukherjee Debangana
Published: October 2022

This paper studies the nonlocal fractional analog of the famous paper of Brezis and Nirenberg [Comm. Pure Appl. Math. 36 (1983), no. 4, 437–477]. Namely, we focus on the following model:
where is the fractional Laplace operator, , with , , , and establish the existence of nontrivial solutions and sign‐changing solutions for the problem .
On the regularity criteria for the three‐dimensional compressible Navier–Stokes system in Lorentz spaces
Authors: Wang Yanqing , Wang Yongfu , Ye Yulin
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we are concerned with the continuation criteria to the 3D isentropic compressible Navier–Stokes equations in Lorentz spaces. We prove that there exists a positive constant
such that no blowup occurs at time
in this system provided that the supernorm of the density is bounded and the space‐time Lorentz spaces norm
with

is small. As a direct application, we established some Serrin's blow‐up criteria in the Lorentz spaces.
Urodynamic findings in female patients with nocturia: An age‐matched case‐control study
Authors: Wang Connie N. , Sebesta Elisabeth M. , Moran George W. , Chung Doreen E.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Nocturia negatively impacts the quality of life and is associated with poor general health, but our understanding of its etiologies is incomplete. Urodynamic studies (UDS) findings in patients with nocturia are not well described and may help guide management. Our objective was to compare UDS findings with age‐matched patients with and without nocturia.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed UDS findings of 1124 patients (2010–2017). A total of 484 (43%) presented with nocturia and 821 (73%) were female. Female patients were separated into age‐matched groups with and without nocturia. Urinary symptoms, past medical diagnoses, demographic information, and UDS findings were compared.

Results

A total of 596 female patients were included, 298 (50%) with nocturia and 298 without. Past medical history, including diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, did not differ between groups. Patients with nocturia were more likely to have pelvic pain (p = 0.0014) and other daytime symptoms (frequency, urgency, and urgency incontinence). On UDS, patients with nocturia were more likely to have bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) (p = 0.025) and dysfunctional voiding (DV) (p < 0.0001). There was no difference in the frequency of detrusor overactivity (DO). Bladder capacity and postvoid residual volumes were lower, though not significantly, in the nocturia group.

Conclusions

When comparing UDS findings in contemporary, age‐matched groups of female patients with and without nocturia, we found only BOO and DV to be associated with nocturia. While the treatment of nocturia is often aimed at managing DO, our data suggest that this may not be the primary urodynamic correlation with nocturia. Further studies are needed to assess whether successful treatment of BOO and DV can improve nocturia.
Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging biomarkers for cortical pathology in multiple sclerosis at 7 T
Authors: Straub Sina , El‐Sanosy Edris , Emmerich Julian , Sandig Frederik L. , Ladd Mark E. , Schlemmer Heinz‐Peter
Published: October 2022

Substantial cortical gray matter tissue damage, which correlates with clinical disease severity, has been revealed in multiple sclerosis (MS) using advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods at 3 T and the use of ultra‐high field, as well as in histopathology studies. While clinical assessment mainly focuses on lesions using
‐ and
‐weighted MRI, quantitative MRI (qMRI) methods are capable of uncovering subtle microstructural changes. The aim of this ultra‐high field study is to extract possible future MR biomarkers for the quantitative evaluation of regional cortical pathology. Because of their sensitivity to iron, myelin, and in part specifically to cortical demyelination,
,
,
, and susceptibility mapping were performed including two novel susceptibility markers; in addition, cortical thickness as well as the volumes of 34 cortical regions were computed. Data were acquired in 20 patients and 16 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. In 18 cortical regions, large to very large effect sizes (Cohen's d ≥ 1) and statistically significant differences in qMRI values between patients and controls were revealed compared with only four regions when using more standard MR measures, namely, volume and cortical thickness. Moreover, a decrease in all susceptibility contrasts (
,
,
and
values indicates that the role of cortical demyelination might outweigh inflammatory processes in the form of iron accumulation in cortical MS pathology, and might also indicate iron loss. A significant association between susceptibility contrasts as well as
of the caudal middle frontal gyrus and disease duration was found (adjusted R2: 0.602, p = 0.0011). Quantitative MRI parameters might be more sensitive towards regional cortical pathology compared with the use of conventional markers only and therefore may play a role in early detection of tissue damage in MS in the future.
Deep learning‐regularized, single‐step quantitative susceptibility mapping quantification
Authors: Wang Zuojun , Mak Henry Ka‐Fung , Cao Peng
Published: October 2022

The purpose of the current study was to develop deep learning‐regularized, single‐step quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) quantification, directly generating QSM from the total phase map. A deep learning‐regularized, single‐step QSM quantification model, named SS‐POCSnet, was trained with datasets created using the QSM synthesis approach in QSM reconstruction challenge 2.0. In SS‐POCSnet, a data fidelity term based on a single‐step model was iteratively applied that combined the spherical mean value kernel and dipole model. Meanwhile, SS‐POCSnet regularized susceptibility maps, avoiding underestimating susceptibility values. We evaluated the SS‐POCSnet on 10 synthetic datasets, 24 clinical datasets with lesions of cerebral microbleed (CMB) and calcification, and 10 datasets with multiple sclerosis (MS).On synthetic datasets, SS‐POCSnet showed the best performance among the methods evaluated, with a normalized root mean squared error of 37.3% ± 4.2%, susceptibility‐tuned structured similarity index measure of 0.823 ± 0.02, high‐frequency error norm of 37.0 ± 5.7, and peak signal‐to‐noise ratio of 42.8 ± 1.1. SS‐POCSnet also reduced the underestimations of susceptibility values in deep brain nuclei compared with those from the other models evaluated. Furthermore, SS‐POCSnet was sensitive to CMB/calcification and MS lesions, demonstrating its clinical applicability. Our method also supported variable imaging parameters, including matrix size and resolution. It was concluded that deep learning‐regularized, single‐step QSM quantification can mitigate underestimating susceptibility values in deep brain nuclei.
Flexible, adhesive, strain‐sensitive, and skin‐matchable hydrogel strain sensors for human motion and handwritten signal monitoring
Authors: Zhao Chunxia , Chen Yunxin , Guo Min , Wu Yuanpeng , Li Yuntao , Xiang Dong , Li Hui , Wang Li , Sun Zhe
Published: October 2022

Flexible hydrogel strain sensors have made great progress in medical applications, human motion detection, and human‐machine interactions. However, the design of hydrogels to realize the synergistic responses of excellent mechanical properties, robust adhesion, and stable sensing is still a highly challenging task. Herein, we report a multifunctional hydrogel (PAMT hydrogel) by crosslinking acrylic acid (AA), 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) and tannic acid (TA) to form a polymer network via a simple one‐pot free radical polymerization. Among them, the dynamic bonding with hydrogen bonding between PAA chains and TA significantly improved the stretch ability of the hydrogels (700%), and the abundant catechol groups on TA endowed the hydrogels with strong and stable adhesion properties (the adhesion strength to glass reached 248 N m−1). When applied to human skin, the hydrogel can be easily peeled off without leaving any residue. Furthermore, the strain sensor assembled using PAMT hydrogel could not only effectively detect the movement in different parts of the human body, but also be used for precise handwritten recognition and electric skin of silicone prosthetic hand. Due to the addition of MPC and TA, the conductive hydrogel has good biocompatibility and no harm to human body. Therefore, PAMT hydrogel has opened up a new vision for the development of intelligent detection and bionic intelligent robots.
Experimental validation ofnon‐Newtonianstratifiedco‐extrusionprediction models using a digital process twin
Authors: Hammer Alexander , Roland Wolfgang , Zacher Maximilian , Kohl Stefan , Berger‐Weber Gerald
Published: October 2022

In the co‐extrusion of plastics, pressure‐throughput behavior, layer distribution, and residence time are crucial parameters, modeling of which contributes to manufacturing high‐quality products at optimized process efficiency and significantly shortens development times for die systems. In previous work, we have presented symbolic regression models to predicting the (i) pressure‐throughput behavior, (ii) position of the interface, (iii) interfacial shear stress, (iv) ratio of volume flow rates, and (v) interfacial flow velocity for isothermal two‐layer co‐extrusion flows through rectangular ducts. These regression models are mathematically simple and capable of capturing the shear‐thinning nature of polymer melts without the need for numerical methods. Here, we present an experimental study validating the proposed models against co‐extrusion process data and comparing them to existing theories. To this end, a two‐layer co‐extrusion demonstration die instrumented with an optical coherence tomography sensor for detecting the interfacial position was used. To accurately set up and evaluate the die flows, the overall co‐extrusion process was represented by means of a digital process twin. Industrially relevant combinations of materials were tested under a wide range of processing conditions. Comparisons of pressure losses and interfacial positions to the predictions showed excellent agreement and the results outperformed the concept of representative viscosity.
Intratympanic steroid treatment can reduce ROS and immune response in human perilymph investigated by in‐depth proteome analysis
Authors: Jung Jin Woo , Hwang Yu‐jung , Suh Myung‐Whan , Han Dohyun , Oh Seung Ha
Published: October 2022

Intratympanic (IT) steroid treatment is one of the most widely used and effective treatments for inner ear disorders such as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). However, a clear mechanism of IT steroids in inner ear recovery has not yet been revealed. Therefore, we investigated proteome changes in extracted human perilymph after steroid treatment. In this study, we applied a tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)‐based proteomics approach to discover global proteome changes by comparing human perilymph after steroid treatment with non‐treated perilymph group. Using liquid chromatography‐MS/MS analysis, we selected 156 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) that were statistically significant according to Student's t‐test. Functional annotation analysis showed that upregulated proteins after steroid treatment are related to apoptosis signaling, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and immune responses. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) clusters the proteins associated with these processes and attempts to observe signaling circuitry, which mediates cellular response after IT steroid treatments. Moreover, we also considered the interactome analysis of DEPs and observed that those with high interaction scores were categorized as having equivalent molecular functions (MFs). Collectively, we suggest that DEPs and interacting proteins in human perilymph after steroid treatment would inhibit the apoptotic and adaptive immune processes that may lead to anti‐inflammatory effects.
Synthesis and properties of cationic multiblock polyaramides and polyimides
Authors: Biery Alison R. , Knauss Daniel M.
Published: October 2022

Poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) is a useful material due to its high charge density and alkaline stability, but its hydrophilic nature limits applications to those where the dissolved polymer is appropriate. To make polymers suitable for applications as films and membranes containing the diallyldimethylammonium moiety, multiblock copolymers of polyaramides (PA) and polyimides (PI), materials known for their excellent physical properties and stabilities, were synthesized. Aminophenyl difunctionalized PDADMAC oligomers were synthesized using a disulfide iniferter then counterion exchanged to the hexafluorophosphate anion to produce telechelic oligomers with good solubility in polar aprotic solvents. The oligomers were reacted in situ with the proper difunctional monomers to produce PA, polyetheraramides, PI, and polyetherimides. All the classes of copolymers were synthesized over a range of compositions at high yield and material properties were demonstrated to be a result of both the backbone chemistry and the composition. Several of the synthesized copolymers formed films with good clarity, strength, and flexibility. The copolymers containing ether linkages had increased backbone flexibility and demonstrated better film‐forming properties. The multiblock copolyaramides and copolyimides demonstrate a method to produce materials with excellent thermal stability and good strength and flexibility, making them uniquely capable of serving as water insoluble, cationic films, and membranes.
Black‐brown hairy tongue: An unusual adverse effect of linezolid
Authors: Mahadi Ashrafur Rahaman , Majumder Mahabubul Islam
Published: October 2022

Linezolid‐induced black hairy tongue (BHT) is an uncommon side effect. We present a case of linezolid induced BHT and evaluate relevant literature from the home and worldwide. Its goal is to offer a secure and appropriate foundation for clinical drug usage. A 23‐year‐old male with recurrent boil infection erroneously reported by gram‐positive methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by pus culture, which was misdiagnosed by a small clinic (diagnostic center) in a rural region of Bangladesh where he had previously been treated for that reoccurring boil infection. The patient was actually suffering from a different pus‐forming bacteria (Klebsiella), a gram‐negative bacterium that was just found after careful C/S report. Linezolid was administered to the patient 600 mg q12h orally in tablet after discharge from that rural clinic. On the 14th day following oral treatment, the patient presented to the hospital with BHT but no other atypical taste complaints. However, all symptoms were tolerable, and he finished the linezolid treatment period. After withdrawing from the medicine, all tongue symptoms vanished. Following a thorough study, it was determined that this patient had BHT brought on by drug linezolid. Long‐term linezolid usage is associated with neuropathies and bone marrow suppression. There is, however, little information about an uncommon adverse effect, black hairy tongue. We present here a case of linezolid induced BHT in a patient who was misdiagnosed. Also covered are the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of black hairy tongue.
Fast peptide exchange on major histocompatibility complex class I molecules by acidic stabilization of a peptide‐empty intermediate
Authors: Saikia Ankur , Hadeler Andries , Prasad Pranathi , Zacharias Martin , Springer Sebastian
Published: October 2022

The cell biology and biochemistry of peptide exchange on major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC‐I) proteins are of great interest in the study of immunodominance, which requires iterative optimization of peptide affinity, and cross‐presentation of pathogen and tumor antigens, in which endogenous peptides are exchanged for exogenous ones. Even though several methods exist to catalyze peptide exchange on recombinant MHC‐I proteins, the cellular conditions and mechanisms allowing for peptide exchange in vivo remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that low pH, as present in endosomes, indeed triggers peptide exchange, and we dissect the individual steps of the exchange reaction. We find that low pH stabilizes the peptide‐empty forms of MHC‐I that occur as intermediates of the exchange reaction, and that is synergizes with dipeptides and with disulfide‐mediated stabilization of MHC‐I.
Reliability modeling for competing failure processes considering degradation rate variation under cumulative shock
Authors: Wang Zhihua , Cao Shihao , Li Wenbo , Liu Chengrui , Mu Jingjing
Published: October 2022

Most systems experience both random shocks (hard failure) and performance degradation (soft failure) during service span, and the dependence of the two competing failure processes has become a key issue. In this study, a novel dependent competing failure processes (DCFPs) model with a varying degradation rate is proposed. The comprehensive impact of random shocks, especially the effect of cumulative shock, is reasonably considered. Specifically, a shock will cause an abrupt degradation damage, and when the cumulative shock reaches a predefined threshold, the degradation rate will change. An analytical reliability solution is derived under the concept of first hitting time (FHT). Besides, a one‐step maximum likelihood estimation method is established by constructing a comprehensive likelihood function. Finally, the reasonability of the closed form reliability solution and the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed DCFPs modeling methodology are demonstrated by a comparative simulation study.
An ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry method based on a four‐step analysis strategy to investigate metabolites of Qi‐Yu‐San‐Long decoction in rat plasma
Authors: Zhao Yue , Chen Yang , Li Ruijuan , Zheng Ting , Huang Mengwen , Gao Yating , Li Zegeng , Wu Huan
Published: October 2022

Metabolism is undoubtedly significantly correlated with the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine. In clinic, Qi‐Yu‐San‐Long decoction (QYSLD) has achieved good results in the treatment of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nevertheless, a detailed understanding of the compounds (prototypes and metabolites) of QYSLD and its dynamic metabolic profile in plasma has not been revealed.

Methods

In this study, a rapid and sensitive method based on ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–QTOF/MSE), combined with a four‐step analysis strategy, was established to investigate QYSLD metabolic profile in rat plasma.

Results

In all, 101 xenobiotics (41 prototypes and 60 QYSLD‐related metabolites) were identified in rat plasma. The research uncovered metabolic profiles of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, iridoids, anthraquinones, and phenylpropanoids of QYSLD in rat plasma. The dynamic changes in these xenobiotics were also observed at different time intervals. At 0.5 h after oral administration, only 15 prototypes and 11 metabolites were detected. Within 24 h, 4 prototypes and 20 metabolites can still be detected. Four prototypes and 10 metabolites had the phenomenon of emergence–disappearance–reappearance in vivo.

Conclusion

In rat plasma, 101 xenobiotics of QYSLD were identified and their dynamic metabolic profiles were systematically delineated, which laid a material basis for further research of the pharmacodynamic substances of QYSLD inhibiting NSCLC.
Dynamic event‐triggered control for a class of p‐normal nonlinear time‐delay systems via output feedback
Authors: Yuan Manman , Zhai Junyong
Published: October 2022

In this article, the event‐triggered (ET) output feedback control problem is discussed for a class of ‐normal nonlinear time‐delay systems. Different from the related existing literature, the linear growth condition is relaxed to the homogeneous one and the growth rate is unknown. In the case of unknown time‐varying delays and control coefficients, nonsmooth control law and some extra redundant terms will be encountered in the design of ET controller, which would bring substantial challenges to the achievement of global convergence. To cope with unknown growth rate and time‐varying delays, two dynamic gains and an appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) are introduced. Then, a new dynamic ET mechanism is given, in which the triggering threshold can be tuned dynamically. It is proved that all the signals of the closed‐loop system (CLS) are bounded. Corresponding examples are given to indicate the validity of the developed theoretical results.
Tribochemistry of phenol and benzyl alcohol between YG8 self‐mated interfaces
Authors: Zhang Renhui , Zhang Qiao , Luo Yuzhou , Wu Ruolin , Li Longcheng
Published: October 2022

In this work, the tribological performance of mixed lubricant consisting of phenol and benzyl alcohol between YG8 self‐mated interfaces was systematically investigated under 98 N and 1450 rpm. The results showed that with increasing concentration of phenol in the mixed lubricant, the friction coefficient initially decreases and then increases; however, anti‐wear performance initially was enhanced and then weaken. As the concentration of phenol was 1.0 wt.%, the tribo‐system exhibited the lowest friction coefficient and wear scar diameter. TEM, SEM and XPS techniques were employed to probe the possible tribological mechanism sliding in the mixed lubricant containing 1.0 wt.% of phenol. The phenol effectively slowed down the oxidation of the mixed lubricant, combination of friction‐induced tungsten oxides and carbon quantum dots, assuring the tribo‐system still in mixed lubrication condition, which made the tribo‐system maintain low friction coefficient and wear.
The Impact of Macrokinetic Effects on the Heck‐Matsuda Reaction Using in‐situ Generated and Immobilized Pd‐Catalysts
Authors: Matelienė (née Dauksaîtė) Lauryna , Gu Xiaoting , Brunner Heiko
Published: October 2022

The present study shows the influence of stirring speed on the kinetics of the Heck‐Matsuda reaction when using in‐situ generated immobilized catalysts and olefins. The stirring speed not only influences the reaction kinetics of the actual reaction, but also the particle size distribution and the degree of immobilization of the palladium clusters. In addition to the stirring speed, the electronic nature of the olefin used in each case also plays a decisive role on the particle size distribution and thus the catalytic activity of the system.
Synthesis of Thorium Dioxide Nanocrystals by Pyrolysis of a Thorium‐based Metal‐organic Framework
Authors: Yu Ting , Qian Zhenghua , Li Lin , Lu Zonghui , Li Bin , Zhang Qiang , Liu Xiaofeng , He Hui , Qiao Yanbo , Ye Guoan
Published: October 2022

A new method is demonstrated for synthesizing thorium dioxide (ThO2) nanoparticles (NPs) by thermal decomposition of an undiscovered thorium‐based metal‐organic framework (MOF). Upon heating at 520 °C, the thorium‐based MOF crystals, designated Th‐MTB, are converted completely to ThO2 NPs with an average size of 150 nm. The MOF‐derived ThO2 NPs are easily sintered to form ThO2 ceramics which have good thermal conductivity. The crystalline grains of ThO2 grow continuously during sintering.The method for the synthesis of ThO2 NPs could have potential applications in the production of nuclear materials.
A One‐Pot Tandem Synthesis of Sulfoximine‐Based Urea From Organic Acid via Curtius Rearrangement
Authors: Irfana Jesin C. P. , Padma Priya V. R. , Kataria Ramesh , Alisha V. , Vimalkumar P. S. , Joseph Anuja G. , Nandi Ganesh Chandra
Published: October 2022

We develop a tandem protocol to synthesize unsymmetrical sulfoximine‐based urea via Curtius rearrangement. The aliphatic/aromatic acid in the presence of diphenylphosphorylazide (DPPA) undergo Curtius rearrangement, and subsequent nucleophilic attack with sulfoximine provides corresponding urea derivative in very good to excellent yield. The protocol is equally applicable for gram‐scale synthesis. The direct use of cheap, easy handling, commercially available aliphatic/aromatic acids are the main advantages of this method. Additionally, we synthesize the sulfoximine analogue of key biologically active compounds, such as tolbutamide, chlorpropamide, and oncolytic sulfonyl urea.
Two Zero‐Dimensional In3+‐Based Hybrid Halides: Single‐Component Materials Showing Bluish‐White‐Light Emission
Authors: Cao Tengfei , Wang Yuanjie , Xu Zhihuang , Ye Liwang , Zhuang Xinxin
Published: October 2022

Low‐dimensional organic‐inorganic hybrid halides (OIHs) with wide emission band have drawn in plenty of consideration in recent years, due to their good luminescence potential, low cost and stable chemical properties. In this work, we reported two new zero‐dimensional (0D) OIH single‐crystals, (N‐AEP)InCl6 ⋅ H2O (N‐AEP=N‐Aminoethylpiperazine, 1) and (N‐AEP)InBr6 ⋅ H2O (2), both belong to the orthorhombic space group of C2221. Systematic characterizations of the compounds including crystal structure, thermal, and photophysical properties were carried out. Luminescence properties studies indicated their dual‐emission characteristics, which was attributed to the synergy of organic and inorganic groups. Significantly, complex 1 showed blue‐light (color coordinates: (0.18, 0.16)) emission upon UV excitation, while a rare bluish‐white light (color coordinates: (0.24, 0.24)) was observed in 2, depending on the assembly of high‐energy emission in (N‐AEP)3+ and low‐energy emission in [InBr6]3− octahedron. This paper offered a particular example on the research for In3+‐based single‐component materials with wide emission bands.
Differentiation in microenterprises
Authors: Carlson Natalie A.
Published: October 2022

Research Summary

Small unregistered firms contribute to a substantial proportion of global economic activity, particularly in developing regions. In explaining variation in productivity in these types of informal firms, research has focused primarily on the adoption of effective business practices and access to capital, with little focus on fundamental positioning. This article explores the nature of differentiation in microenterprises, introducing a text‐based measure of differentiation using state‐of‐the‐art sentence embeddings. Using a combined sample of nearly 10,000 microenterprises across eight developing countries, I examine whether (and which) microenterprises differentiate, whether differentiation is related to performance (and for whom), and whether any existing policy interventions affect differentiation.

Managerial Summary

Small unregistered firms contribute to a substantial proportion of global economic activity, particularly in developing regions. In studying how to improve the productivity of these types of tiny firms, researchers and policy makers have primarily focused on business practices and access to capital, rather than the fundamental market position of the product or service offered. This article explores the extent to which microenterprises differentiate themselves from peer businesses, introducing a measure of differentiation based on computational text analysis. Using a combined sample of nearly 10,000 microenterprises across eight developing countries, I examine whether (and which) microenterprises differentiate, whether differentiation is related to performance (and for whom), and whether any existing policy interventions affect differentiation.