bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined application of biochar and nitrogen fertilizer improves rice yield, microbial activity and N-metabolism in a pot experiment
Authors: Ali Izhar , Ullah Saif , He Liang , Zhao Quan , Iqbal Anas , Wei Shangqing , Shah Tariq , Ali Niyaz , Bo Yan , Adnan Muhammad , Amanullah  , Jiang Ligeng
Published: November 2020

The excessive use of synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers in rice (Oryza sativaL.) has resulted in high N loss, soil degradation, and environmental pollution in a changing climate. Soil biochar amendment is proposed as a climate change mitigation tool that supports carbon sequestration and reduces N losses and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the soil. The current study evaluated the impact of four different rates of biochar (B) (C/B0-0 t ha−1, B1-20 t ha−1, B2-40 t ha−1, and B3-60 t ha−1) and two N levels (N1; low (270 kg N ha−1) and N2; high (360 kg N ha−1)), on rice (cultivar Zhenguiai) grown in pots. Significant increases in the average soil microbial biomass N (SMBN) (88%) and carbon (87%) were recorded at the highest rate of 60-ton ha−1B and 360 kg N ha−1compared to the control (N1C) during both seasons (S1 and S2). The photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), quantum yield of the photosystem (PS) II (ΦPS II), electron transport rate (ETR), and photochemical quenching (qP) were enhanced at low rates of biochar applications (20 to 40 t B ha−1) for high and low N rates across the seasons. Nitrate reductase (NR), glutamine synthetase (GS), and glutamine 2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase (GOGAT) activity were, on average, 39%, 55%, and 63% higher in the N1B3, N2B2, and N2B3treatments, respectively than the N1C. The grain quality was higher in the N1B3treatment than the N1C, i.e., the protein content (PC), amylose content (AC), percent brown rice (BRP), and percent milled rice (MRP) were, on average, 16%, 28%, 4.6%, and 5% higher, respectively in both seasons. The results of this study indicated that biochar addition to the soil in combination with N fertilizers increased the dry matter (DM) content, N uptake, and grain yield of rice by 24%, 27%, and 64%, respectively, compared to the N1C.
¿Influyen las características personales del profesorado en formación en sus actitudes hacia una educación ambiental transformadora?
Authors: Lorenzo-Rial Maria-Asunción
Published: November 2020

El desafío ambiental es uno de los principales retos que debe afrontar el profesorado. La finalidad de este estudio fue conocer cómo las características y circunstancias personales pueden influir en las actitudes del futuro profesorado hacia una educación ambiental transformadora. Para ello se empleó una muestra de 889 estudiantes de los Grados en Educación Infantil y Primaria españoles, analizándose sus puntuaciones en los factores de la escala validada Attitudes Scale toward Environmental Education (ASEE), mediante técnicas de estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Los resultados obtenidos indican que factores como el sexo, el tipo de escuela preuniversitaria y la educación de las familias deben ser tenidos en cuenta, ya que tienen implicaciones prácticas para la formación de los futuros docentes en lo que denominamos una educación ambiental transformadora
Una mirada de las estrategias de enseñanza del inglés como lengua extranjera desplegadas por profesores practicantes chilenos
Authors:   Universidad de Playa Ancha (Chile), Ortiz López Juan Eduardo , Hernández Vásquez María Eugenia ,   Universidad Metropolitana de Ciencias de la Educación, Díaz Claudio ,   Universidad de Concepción, Sanhueza Campos Cristián ,   Universidad de Concepción, Campos Deisy ,   Universidad de Atacama, Carrasco Parra Valia ,   Universidad Santo Tomás, Olguín Marcela ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Machuca-Contreras Felipe ,   Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Rundquist Eric ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Published: November 2020

El estudio tuvo como objetivo explorar y describir las prácticas de enseñanza de los futuros profesores de inglés como lengua extranjera respecto de las habilidades de gestión del aula, implementación de planificaciones de clases, estrategias de enseñanza y provisión de retroalimentación. Se observaron 160 clases en diferentes regiones del país. El estudio siguió un diseño cuantitativo no experimental. Para obtener información demográfica y detectar las prácticas en el aula se diseñó un instrumento compuesto de dos partes con una escala de observación Likert. Después de la recopilación de datos, se calcularon estadísticos descriptivos, one-way ANOVA y pruebas post hoc de Tukey HSD. Los resultados indican que, aunque los puntajes tienden a ser relativamente similares y estables en todo el país, existen algunas diferencias estadísticamente significativas teniendo en cuenta la relación entre el género y la gestión del aula, la dependencia escolar, el desempeño de los practicantes y la entrega de retroalimentación. Los autores reconocen la necesidad de estudios adicionales que puedan explicar una correlación entre estos resultados y las elecciones de los practicantes a través de un enfoque cualitativo.
The nucleotide specificity of succinyl‐CoA synthetase of Plasmodium falciparum is not determined by charged gatekeeper residues alone
Authors: Vashisht Kapil , Singh Pallavi , Verma Sonia , Dixit Rajnikant , Mishra Neelima , Pandey Kailash C.
Published: November 2020

Substrate specificity of an enzyme is an important characteristic of its mechanism of action. Investigation of the nucleotide specificity of Plasmodium falciparum succinyl‐CoA synthetase (SCS; PfSCS) would provide crucial insights of its substrate recognition. Charged gatekeeper residues have been shown to alter the substrate specificity via electrostatic interactions with approaching substrates. The enzyme kinetics of recombinant PfSCS (wild‐type), generated by refolding of the individual P. falciparum SCSβ and Blastocystis SCSα subunits, demonstrated ADP‐forming activity (KmATP = 48 µm). Further, the introduction of charged gatekeeper residues, either positive (Lys and Lys) or negative (Glu and Asp), resulted in significant reductions in the ATP affinity of PfSCS. It is interesting to note that the recombinant PfSCSβ subunit can be refolded to a functional enzyme conformation using Blastocystis SCSα, indicating the possibility of subunits swapping among different organisms. These results concluded that electrostatic interactions at the gatekeeper region alone are insufficient to alter the substrate specificity of PfSCS, and further structural analysis with a particular focus on binding site architecture is required.
The case of a 30‐year‐old man with subacute gait instability, weakness, and muscle spasms
Authors: Mehta Mitesh P. , Sokol Leonard L.
Published: November 2020

Case Summary

A 30‐year‐old healthy man presents after a fall with diffuse weakness and pain and recent onset left eye ptosis in the setting of three weeks of progressive bilateral leg weakness, gait instability, and difficulty washing his hair due to upper extremity weakness. He had also developed stiffness in his neck and shoulders and uncontrollable muscle spasms. Exam was notable for ptosis, fatiguing weakness in extremities, increased tone, hyperreflexia with clonus, and spastic gait. A mediastinal mass was found on chest CT (Fig. 1), and biopsy confirmed an invasive thymoma with positive nodes. Serum testing was positive for antibodies to acetylcholine receptors as well as glutamic acid decarboxylase.
When bad gets worse: Negative wording amplifies negative recall in persons with the borderline personality trait
Authors: Maraz Aniko , Nagy Tamás , Ziegler Matthias
Published: November 2020

The emotional valence of memory recall strongly influences the extreme, and often self‐destructive behavioral response. Overall, 4427 people from the community filled out our screening questionnaire, of which 674 (mean age: 32.9 years, 64.7% women) passed the threshold for the likely presence of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Participants watched one of 9 possible video clips differing in valence (positive, negative or neutral). Results indicate support (ß = .151, p < .05) for a negative cognitive tendency in the evaluations proportionate to the severity of BPD but only when the impression is assessed with negatively‐worded items. This effect is detectable regardless of other factors such as negative mood, extremity of the answers or general impression of the character. These effects are unaffected by acute trauma. To conclude, different factors influence the recall of emotional stimuli, depending on the valence of the stimuli and the valence of the rating scale in persons with strong borderline tendencies.
Insights into the In Vitro Formation of Apatite from Mg‐Stabilized Amorphous Calcium Carbonate
Authors: Opitz Phil , Besch Laura , Panthöfer Martin , Kabelitz Anke , Unger Ronald E. , Emmerling Franziska , Mondeshki Mihail , Tremel Wolfgang
Published: November 2020

A protein‐free formation of bone‐like apatite from amorphous precursors through ball‐milling is reported. Mg2+ ions are crucial to achieve full amorphization of CaCO3. Mg2+ incorporation generates defects which strongly retard a recrystallization of ball‐milled Mg‐doped amorphous calcium carbonate (BM‐aMCC), which promotes the growth of osteoblastic and endothelial cells in simulated body fluid and has no effect on endothelial cell gene expression. Ex situ snapshots of the processes revealed the reaction mechanisms. For low Mg contents (<30%) a two phase system consisting of Mg‐doped amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) and calcite “impurities” was formed. For high (>40%) Mg2+ contents, BM‐aMCC follows a different crystallization path via magnesian calcite and monohydrocalcite to aragonite. While pure ACC crystallizes rapidly to calcite in aqueous media, Mg‐doped ACC forms in the presence of phosphate ions bone‐like hydroxycarbonate apatite (dahllite), a carbonate apatite with carbonate substitution in both type A (OH−) and type B (PO43−) sites, which grows on calcite “impurities” via heterogeneous nucleation. This process produces an endotoxin‐free material and makes BM‐aMCC an excellent “ion storage buffer” that promotes cell growth by stimulating cell viability and metabolism with promising applications in the treatment of bone defects and bone degenerative diseases.
Choose Your Own Adventure: Fabrication of Monolithic All‐Perovskite Tandem Photovoltaics
Authors: Moot Taylor , Werner Jérémie , Eperon Giles E. , Zhu Kai , Berry Joseph J. , McGehee Michael D. , Luther Joseph M.
Published: November 2020

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have transfixed the photovoltaic (PV) community due to their outstanding and tunable optoelectronic properties coupled to demonstrations of high‐power conversion efficiencies (PCE) at a range of bandgaps. This has motivated the field to push perovskites to reach the highest possible performance. One way to increase the efficiency is by fabricating multijunction solar cells, which can split the solar spectrum, reducing thermalization loss. Low‐cost all‐perovskite tandems have a real chance to soon exceed 30% PCE, which could transform the PV industry. Achieving this goal requires the identification of perovskite sub‐cells that are both highly efficient and can be effectively integrated. Herein, it is discussed how to navigate the multiple‐choice adventure in choosing between the myriad of options and considerations present when deciding what perovskite materials, contact layers, and processing tools to use. Some of the potential fabrication pitfalls often encountered in MHP based tandem PVs are highlighted, so that they can hopefully be avoided in the future.
Room‐Temperature Synthesis of 2D Janus Crystals and their Heterostructures
Authors: Trivedi Dipesh B. , Turgut Guven , Qin Ying , Sayyad Mohammed Y. , Hajra Debarati , Howell Madeleine , Liu Lei , Yang Sijie , Patoary Naim Hossain , Li Han , Petrić Marko M. , Meyer Moritz , Kremser Malte , Barbone Matteo , Soavi Giancarlo , Stier Andreas V. , Müller Kai , Yang Shize , Esqueda Ivan Sanchez , Zhuang Houlong , Finley Jonathan J. , Tongay Sefaattin
Published: November 2020

Janus crystals represent an exciting class of 2D materials with different atomic species on their upper and lower facets. Theories have predicted that this symmetry breaking induces an electric field and leads to a wealth of novel properties, such as large Rashba spin–orbit coupling and formation of strongly correlated electronic states. Monolayer MoSSe Janus crystals have been synthesized by two methods, via controlled sulfurization of monolayer MoSe2 and via plasma stripping followed thermal annealing of MoS2. However, the high processing temperatures prevent growth of other Janus materials and their heterostructures. Here, a room‐temperature technique for the synthesis of a variety of Janus monolayers with high structural and optical quality is reported. This process involves low‐energy reactive radical precursors, which enables selective removal and replacement of the uppermost chalcogen layer, thus transforming classical transition metal dichalcogenides into a Janus structure. The resulting materials show clear mixed character for their excitonic transitions, and more importantly, the presented room‐temperature method enables the demonstration of first vertical and lateral heterojunctions of 2D Janus TMDs. The results present significant and pioneering advances in the synthesis of new classes of 2D materials, and pave the way for the creation of heterostructures from 2D Janus layers.
Cesium Lead Bromide (CsPbBr3) Thin‐Film‐Based Solid‐State Neutron Detector Developed by a Solution‐Free Sublimation Process
Authors: Fernandez‐Izquierdo Leunam , Reyes‐Banda Martin Gregorio , Mathew Xavier , Chavez‐Urbiola Iker Rodrigo , El Bouanani Lidia , Chang Joseph , Avila‐Avendano Carlos , Mathews Nini Rose , Pintor‐Monroy Maria Isabel , Quevedo‐Lopez Manuel
Published: November 2020

The majority of solid‐state radiation sensors are predominantly single crystals. However, for low‐cost and large‐area device applications, thin films are a better option. The first evidence of neutron detection using a Gallium Oxide/Cesium Lead Bromide (Ga2O3/CsPbBr3) solid‐state diode enabled by an innovative close space sublimation (CSS) method that allows deposition of thick CsPbBr3 films is demonstrated. Furthermore, indirect neutron sensing is achieved using a 10B layer for diodes biased at voltages as low as –5 V, showing the potential for low‐power operation. The neutron response is enabled by the low leakage current (≈10−8 A mm–2), rectification of ≈104, capacitance as low as 15 pF, and fast response of the Ga2O3/CsPbBr3 diode. The superior performance of the CsPbBr3 is due to the phase purity, stoichiometry control, and large single‐grain columnar growth of the films obtained by the CSS method.
Programmable Building Blocks via Internal Stress Engineering for 3D Collective Assembly
Authors: Cho Woongbi , Hahm Dong Yoon , Yim Jae Ha , Lee Jun Hee , Lee Yun Ju , Kim Dong‐Gyun , Kim Yong Seok , Wie Jeong Jae
Published: November 2020

The collective assembly of finite building blocks can induce complicated scaled‐up architecture for structural diversity and multifunctionality. In this study, the concept of 2D to 3D shape morphing via frontal photopolymerization is employed for the rapid and repetitive fabrication of geometrically tailorable building blocks. The photoabsorber generates an internal stress gradient which induces a mismatch of volumetric shrinkage within a photocured monolithic 3D structure. The final 3D curvilinear architecture is investigated through systematic analysis by controlling the spatiotemporal conditions of 3D shape morphing. The spatiotemporal effect consists of pre/postcuring methods and geometry of the 2D patterns inspired by fractal elements including even/odd condition, spirality, and self‐similarity. Finally, the concept of collective assembly is introduced to construct multiple objective architectures. Each morphed structure contributes to the assembly of hierarchical 3D structures as a building block. Inspired by famous architectures, the collective hierarchical 3D structures are demonstrated by replicating the form of certain landmarks. In addition, scaled‐up assembled 3D structure can withstand 150 times of its own weight and can be applied for the frame of electronic devices. The collective assembly of programmable building blocks has the potential for various versatile applications in rapid prototypes of optical metamaterials, antennas, and curved electronic devices.
Enhancement of Solid‐State Reversible Photochromism by Incorporation of Rigid Steric Hindrance Groups
Authors: Yang Yuhui , He Junzhao , He Zhe , Jiang Guohua
Published: November 2020

Solid‐state materials with reversible properties are highly attractive, owing to versatile applications in security, sensors, bioimaging, and information storage. Unfortunately, obtaining these materials in the solid state remains a huge challenge. Efficient isomerization usually requires sufficient conformational freedom and cannot be achieved without solvents or matrices. In this study, four structurally simple spiropyran derivatives are prepared that show excellent reversible photochromism under solvent‐free conditions. The large free volumes induced by different rigid aromatic ring groups enable an efficient photoswitching between closed‐ring compounds and their photoisomers. Furthermore, these compounds exhibit mechanochromic properties upon application of a mechanical force. Their color can be maintained for at least 2 days without fading under visible light irradiation at 30 °C, and can be easily erased by heating at 60 °C for 5 min. At least 30 consecutive print–erase cycles can be performed without apparent fatigue. The excellent solid‐state photochromic properties of the present compounds can find application in both UV printing and rewritable paper.
Lewis Acid Catalyzed Reductive Cyclization of 2‐Aryloxybenzaldehydes and 2‐(Arylthio)benzaldehydes to Unsubstituted 9H‐Xanthenes and Thioxanthenes in Diisopropyl Ether
Authors: Verma Shashi Kant , Prajapati Anamika , Saini Manoj Kumar , Basak Ashok K.
Published: November 2020

Readily accessible 2‐aryloxybenzaldehydes and 2‐(arylthio)benzaldehydes undergo a sequence of reactions leading to a wide variety of unsubstituted 9H‐xanthenes and thioxanthenes in high yields when heated with a Lewis acid in diisopropyl ether. This reductive cyclization method is compatible with several important functional groups. The method is also applicable for the selective reductive cyclization of the more electron‐rich aryl ring of a 2,6‐bis(aryloxy)benzaldehyde. The key feature of this transformation is the chemoselective reduction of a transient xanthylium ion in the presence of aldehydic group via intermolecular hydride transfer from diisopropyl ether (solvent).

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Electrochemical Capacitors: Performance Metrics and Evaluation by Testing and Analysis
Authors: Zhao Jingyuan , Burke Andrew F.
Published: November 2020

Electrochemical capacitors (i.e., supercapacitors) as energy storage technologies have attracted a lot of attention because of the increasing demand for efficient high‐power delivery. Over the past decades, various advanced electrode materials and cell design have been developed to improve the performance of electrochemical capacitors. Hybrid capacitors and pseudocapacitors achieve much higher energy density due to their fast surface redox reactions. However, although all of them can be classified as electrochemical capacitors, different charge storage mechanisms alter their electrochemical characteristics. All the speculation and potential uncertainties, in the absence of standard performance metrics and test method, make it rather challenging to reliably evaluate the performance of various electrochemical systems, which hinder the development of advanced energy storage technologies and make the comparison between different energy storage systems (batteries, electrochemical capacitors, and hybrid devices) not so meaningful. In this regard, the uncertainties related to the performance metrics and evaluation of electrochemical capacitors are summarized and the ways in which the uncertainties can be minimized for both electric double layer capacitors (EDLCs) and hybrid supercapacitors is analyzed. It is hoped this effort will provide an accurate assessment method for determining the device properties to a high level of confidence and promote the standardization process of performance evaluation for the electrochemical energy storage systems.
Physical activity levels among the adults of Majha region of Punjab, India: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Singh Harmandeep , Singh Sukhdev , Singh Amandeep , Baker Julien S.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To construct a physical activity profile of the adult population of the Majha region of the Indian Punjab.

Methods

The study included a total of 1130 adult participants aged 18 to 64 years comprising both genders, from rural, urban, and different sociodemographic backgrounds from the four districts of the Majha region of Punjab. The WHO's STEPwise approach to Surveillance instrument for noncommunicable diseases was used to collect data for the selected variables such as physical activity levels, demographic characteristics, behavioral parameters (daily screen time, fruit intake/week, and vegetable intake/week), physical characteristics and self‐reported history of cardiovascular diseases, raised blood pressure, diabetes, and raised cholesterol. The likelihood of physical inactivity was predicted based on independent variables using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 56.81% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 53.9‐59.7) of participants were not sufficiently active as per WHO's moderate‐ to vigorous‐intensity recommendations. Obesity and overweight were observed among 40.2% of the participants. Mean minutes/day of smartphone screen time was 86.11 (CI: 79.48‐92.71). Mean fruit (4.69 CI: 4.42‐4.95) and vegetable (15.35 CI: 15.08‐15.62) weekly consumption was lower than the WHO's recommendations. Work status, residence, annual household income, smartphone screen time, history of raised blood pressure, history of diabetes, and history of raised cholesterol were significant predictors of insufficient physical activity.

Conclusions

Our study found a high prevalence of physical inactivity. Being a government employee, being an urban resident, having a middle‐level annual household income, high smartphone screen time and having a history of raised blood pressure, diabetes, and raised cholesterol were all significant predictors of physical inactivity.
Crystallization Kinetics Modulation of FASnI3 Films with Pre‐nucleation Clusters for Efficient Lead‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Meng Xiangyue , Li Yunfei , Qu Yizhi , Chen Haining , Jiang Nan , Li Minghua , Xue Ding‐Jiang , Hu Jin‐Song , Huang Hui , Yang Shihe
Published: November 2020

Tin halide perovskites are rising as promising materials for lead‐free perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the crystallization rate of tin halide perovskites is much faster than the lead‐based analogs, leading to more rampant trap states and lower efficiency. Here, we disclose a key finding to modulate the crystallization kinetics of FASnI3 through a non‐classical nucleation mechanism based on pre‐nucleation clusters (PNCs). By introducing piperazine dihydriodide to tune the colloidal chemistry of the FASnI3 perovskite precursor solution, stable clusters could be readily formed in the solution before nucleation. These pre‐nucleation clusters act as intermediate phase and thus can reduce the energy barrier for the perovskite nucleation, resulting in a high‐quality perovskite film with lower defect density. This PNCs‐based method has led to a conspicuous photovoltaic performance improvement for FASnI3‐based PSCs, delivering an impressive efficiency of 11.39 % plus improved stability.
Atomistic simulations of functionalization of aramid fiber‐epoxy nanocomposite
Authors: Pan Lei , Zhong Lang , Guo Hua Xin , Wang Meng Lin , Xue Peng Bo
Published: November 2020

Owing to its high degree of crystallinity and orientation, the surface of aramid fiber is smooth, causing its low bonding strength with polymer matrix. This has restricted the application of aramid fiber in reinforced polymer materials. Effective methods are by introducing functional groups through surface modification and by increasing its surface roughness thereby greatly improving its bonding strength with the polymer. In this work, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study fiber functionalized with hydroxyl (OH), carboxyl (COOH), and the silane coupling agent as nanofillers for polymer nanocomposites. The interfacial characteristics and the mechanical behavior of polymer nanocomposites are investigated. The results show that the functionalization can enhance the interfacial shear stress and tensile strength. The functional group not only provides a stronger interface, but also provides additional mechanical interlocking effect, which effectively improves load‐bearing transmission capacity. The analysis of the micro‐mechanism from the energy level also provides new insights for the functionalized design of nanocomposites.
Fabrication of ultrafast temperature‐responsive nanofibrous hydrogel with superelasticity and its 'on–off' switchable drug releasing capacity
Authors: Zheng Xie , Liu Xiaoyun , Zha Liusheng
Published: November 2020

The temperature‐responsive bulky hydrogel with fast response rate and satisfactory mechanical property has fascinating application potential in many aspects, such as the implantable macroscale controlled drug release carrier for post‐surgical therapy; however, creating such a smart hydrogel was proven extremely challenging. Here a novel type of temperature‐responsive bulky hydrogel with ultrafast response rate and super compressible elasticity was fabricated by the fibrous freeze‐shaping technique using shortened temperature‐responsive polymer based electrospun hollow nanofibers as building blocks, followed by heat treatment for endowing the hydrogel with high stability in water. Because the hydrogel has hierarchical porous structure and its constituent nanofibers have hollow structure, which are beneficial to diffusion of its embodied water during temperature‐induced volume phase transition, its temperature‐response time is less than 30 s. In addition, the hierarchical porous structure benefits dissipation of the compression stress exerted on the hydrogel. Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐dextran as a model biomacromolecular drug, was loaded into the shells of the hollow nanofibers during coaxial electrospinning, and the ultimately obtained nanofibrous hydrogel can release its loaded FITC‐dextran in a 'on–off' switchable fashion in response to temperature alternation between 15 and 47°C. Cell cytotoxicity test results demonstrate that the temperature‐responsive nanofibrous hydrogel is biocompatible.
Venous Thromboembolism Risk With JAK Inhibitors: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yates Mark , Mootoo Amanda , Adas Maryam , Bechman Katie , Rampes Sanketh , Patel Vishit , Qureshi Sumera , Cope Andrew P. , Norton Sam , Galloway James B.
Published: November 2020

Objective

JAK inhibitor therapies are effective treatment options for immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), but their use has been limited by venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk warnings from licensing authorities. We undertook this study to evaluate the VTE risk of JAK inhibitors in patients with IMIDs.

Methods

Systematic searches of Medline and Embase databases from inception to September 30, 2020 were conducted. Phase II and phase III double‐blind, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of JAK inhibitors at licensed doses were included in our analyses. RCTs with no placebo arm, long‐term extension studies, post hoc analyses, and pooled analyses were excluded. Three researchers independently extracted data on exposure to JAK inhibitors or placebo and VTE events (e.g., pulmonary embolism [PE] and deep vein thrombosis [DVT]) and assessed study quality.

Results

A total of 42 studies were included, from an initial search that yielded 619. There were 6,542 JAK inhibitor patient exposure years (PEYs) compared to 1,578 placebo PEYs. There were 15 VTE events in the JAK inhibitor group and 4 in the placebo group. The pooled incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of VTE, PE, and DVT in patients receiving JAK inhibitors were 0.68 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.36–1.29), 0.44 (95% CI 0.28–0.70), and 0.59 (95% CI 0.31–1.15), respectively.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis of RCT data defines the VTE risk with JAK inhibitors as a class in IMID patients. The pooled IRRs do not provide evidence that support the current warnings of VTE risk for JAK inhibitors. These findings will aid continued development of clinical guidelines for the use of JAK inhibitors in IMIDs.
Examination of cortically projecting cholinergic neurons following exercise and environmental intervention in a rodent model of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Milbocker Katrina A. , Klintsova Anna Y.
Published: November 2020

Background

Up to 1 in 5 infants in the United States are exposed to alcohol prenatally, resulting in neurodevelopmental deficits categorized as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Choline supplementation ameliorates some deficits, suggesting that alcohol exposure (AE) perturbs cholinergic neurotransmission and development. Behavioral interventions, which upregulate cholinergic neurotransmission, rescue cognitive deficits in rodent models of FASD.

Methods

We investigated the impacts of two interventions (either wheel‐running (WR) or “super intervention,” WR plus exposure to a complex environment) on cholinergic neuronal morphology in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM), the source of cortical cholinergic input, and prefrontal cortex (PFC) in a rodent model of FASD. One third of the total 47 male pups received intragastric intubation of ethanol in milk substitute during postnatal days (PD) 4–9. Another third served as sham‐intubated procedural controls while the final third served as suckle controls. Rats from each group were exposed to either intervention during PD 30–72. Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT+) and acetylcholinesterase staining were used to quantify cholinergic neuron number, soma volume, and axon number.

Results

Our data indicate a main effect of postnatal treatment on ChAT+ neuron number in NBM in adulthood. Post hoc analysis demonstrates that ChAT+ neuron number is reduced in AE compared to suckle control rodents (p < .01).

Conclusions

We examined the cytoarchitectonics of cholinergic neurons in NBM and PFC in adulthood following early postnatal AE and two interventions. We show that AE reduces ChAT+ neuron number in NBM, and this is not mitigated by either intervention.
Ocean carbon sequestration: Particle fragmentation by copepods as a significant unrecognised factor?
Authors: Mayor Daniel J. , Gentleman Wendy C. , Anderson Thomas R.
Published: November 2020

Ocean biology helps regulate global climate by fixing atmospheric CO2 and exporting it to deep waters as sinking detrital particles. New observations demonstrate that particle fragmentation is the principal factor controlling the depth to which these particles penetrate the ocean's interior, and hence how long the constituent carbon is sequestered from the atmosphere. The underlying cause is, however, poorly understood. We speculate that small, particle‐associated copepods, which intercept and inadvertently break up sinking particles as they search for attached protistan prey, are the principle agents of fragmentation in the ocean. We explore this idea using a new marine ecosystem model. Results indicate that explicitly representing particle fragmentation by copepods in biogeochemical models offers a step change in our ability to understand the future evolution of biologically‐mediated ocean carbon storage. Our findings highlight the need for improved understanding of the distribution, abundance, ecology and physiology of particle‐associated copepods.
Rapid biosynthesis of fluorescent CdSe QDs in Bacillus licheniformis and correlative bacterial antibiotic change assess during the process
Authors: Lin Tian‐Yang , Lian Zong‐Juan , Yao Cai‐Xia , Du Qing‐Qing , Liao Sheng‐Hua , Wu Sheng‐Mei
Published: November 2020

Cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots (QDs) were biosynthesized rapidly in 18 h in Bacillus licheniformis ATCC 11946 (B. licheniformis); this process benefited from the cellular machinery of bacteria metal metabolism, in which inorganic Na2SeO3 and CdCl2 were chosen as raw materials to produce high quality CdSe QDs by a designed two‐step protocol. Research outcomes demonstrated that the purified CdSe QDs possessed maximum fluorescence intensities at weak alkalinity solutions and had good fluorescence stabilities at 4°C as well as at room temperature after standing for 1 week. Glutathione (GSH) concentration and superoxide dismutase (SOD) content, both of which were reported to be greatly related to biosynthetic activities in some bacterial matrices, were monitored during the biosynthetic process in B. licheniformis. Bacterial resistance research further showed that the change in rates in bacterial inhibition zone diameter to seven different antibiotics was less than 9% after B. licheniformis was used to manufacture CdSe QDs, showing a relative lower environmental risk in short‐term heavy metal exposure.
Fluorescence‐enhanced Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 composites films synthesized by double‐films solid phase reaction method
Authors: Xiong Xuhui , Liu Hu , Wang Wei , Gong Jinhui , Chen Xiangting , Zhao Yaxuan , Tian Tingfang , Wang Li
Published: November 2020

Due to indispensable ligands, polluted organic solution, or complex vapour deposition, stable CsPbBr3 film is hard to be prepared directly using a simple and environmentally friendly method. To improve the stability of CsPbBr3 film and its synthesis methods, the double‐films solid phase reaction was developed, and Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 composites were designed. Although the synthesized particle had a size of 2–5 μm, much larger than that of quantum dots, in ambient conditions the composites films still showed good photoluminescence properties, with the highest photoluminescence quantum yield of 80%. It had good stability against air, temperature and humidity, and even had interesting fluorescence‐enhanced phenomenon after about 4 days.
Trypsin Detection Using Electrochemical Reduction‐based Redox Cycling
Authors: Shin Jeonghwa , Park Kiryeon , Park Seonhwa , Yang Haesik
Published: November 2020

It is more difficult to obtain high signal‐to‐background ratios in biosensors using electrochemical reduction than using electrochemical oxidation. Here, we present a method for trypsin detection using electrochemical reduction‐based redox cycling. Electrochemical‐enzymatic (EN) redox cycling and electrochemical‐chemical (EC) redox cycling for trypsin detection were tested and compared. Trypsin cleaves a peptide bond in an electrochemically inactive p‐aminophenol (AP)‐conjugated oligopeptide, and this cleavage results in the release of electrochemically active AP, which is involved in EN and EC redox‐cycling reactions. Horseradish peroxidase and cytochrome c (Cyt c) were tested as redox enzymes for EN redox cycling involving a redox enzyme and H2O2. Cyt c was better than horseradish peroxidase, as its use resulted in lower background levels. The trypsin detection based on the EN redox cycling involving Cyt c and H2O2 (~50 ng/mL) exhibited lower detection limits than the detection based on EC redox cycling involving IO3− (~100 ng/mL), because of higher signal levels.
IDentif.AI: Rapidly optimizing combination therapy design against severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐Cov‐2) with digital drug development
Authors: Blasiak Agata , Lim Jhin Jieh , Seah Shirley Gek Kheng , Kee Theodore , Remus Alexandria , Chye De Hoe , Wong Pui San , Hooi Lissa , Truong Anh T. L. , Le Nguyen , Chan Conrad E. Z. , Desai Rishi , Ding Xianting , Hanson Brendon J. , Chow Edward Kai‐Hua , Ho Dean
Published: November 2020

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) led to multiple drug repurposing clinical trials that have yielded largely uncertain outcomes. To overcome this challenge, we used IDentif.AI, a platform that pairs experimental validation with artificial intelligence (AI) and digital drug development to rapidly pinpoint unpredictable drug interactions and optimize infectious disease combination therapy design with clinically relevant dosages. IDentif.AI was paired with a 12‐drug candidate therapy set representing over 530,000 drug combinations against the SARS‐CoV‐2 live virus collected from a patient sample. IDentif.AI pinpointed the optimal combination as remdesivir, ritonavir, and lopinavir, which was experimentally validated to mediate a 6.5‐fold enhanced efficacy over remdesivir alone. Additionally, it showed hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin to be relatively ineffective. The study was completed within 2 weeks, with a three‐order of magnitude reduction in the number of tests needed. IDentif.AI independently mirrored clinical trial outcomes to date without any data from these trials. The robustness of this digital drug development approach paired with in vitro experimentation and AI‐driven optimization suggests that IDentif.AI may be clinically actionable toward current and future outbreaks.
New insights into molecules and pathways of cancer metabolism and therapeutic implications
Authors: Tang Zhenye , Xu Zhenhua , Zhu Xiao , Zhang Jinfang
Published: November 2020

Cancer cells are abnormal cells that can reproduce and regenerate rapidly. They are characterized by unlimited proliferation, transformation and migration, and can destroy normal cells. To meet the needs for cell proliferation and migration, tumor cells acquire molecular materials and energy through unusual metabolic pathways as their metabolism is more vigorous than that of normal cells. Multiple carcinogenic signaling pathways eventually converge to regulate three major metabolic pathways in tumor cells, including glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. The distinct metabolic signatures of cancer cells reflect that metabolic changes are indispensable for the genesis and development of tumor cells. In this review, we report the unique metabolic alterations in tumor cells which occur through various signaling axes, and present various modalities available for cancer diagnosis and clinical therapy. We further provide suggestions for the development of anti‐tumor therapeutic drugs.
Functional mechanism and clinical implications of MicroRNA‐423 in human cancers
Authors: Ke RuiSheng , Lv LiZhi , Zhang SiYu , Zhang FuXing , Jiang Yi
Published: November 2020

MicroRNAs play a vital role in the regulatory mechanisms of tumorigenesis. Current research indicates that microRNA‐423 (miR‐423) is abnormally expressed in various human tumors and participates in multiple signaling pathways of cancer progression. In most studies, miR‐423 was confirmed as oncomiR, while a few contradictory reports considered miR‐423 as an anticancer miRNA. The paradoxical role in cancer may hinder the application of miR‐423 as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. Simultaneously, the interaction mechanism between miR‐423 and lncRNA also needs attention. In this review, we have summarized the dual role of aberrant miR‐423 expression and its mechanisms in tumorigenesis, and the therapeutic potential of miR‐423 in human tumors.
Trypsiligase‐Catalyzed Labeling of Proteins on Living Cells
Authors: Liebscher Sandra , Mathea Sebastian , Aumüller Tobias , Pech Andreas , Bordusa Frank
Published: November 2020

Fluorescent fusion proteins are powerful tools for studying biological processes in living cells, but universal application is limited due to the voluminous size of those tags, which might have an impact on the folding, localization or even the biological function of the target protein. The designed biocatalyst trypsiligase enables site‐directed linkage of small‐sized fluorescence dyes on the N terminus of integral target proteins located in the outer membrane of living cells through a stable native peptide bond. The function of the approach was tested by using the examples of covalent derivatization of the transmembrane proteins CD147 as well as the EGF receptor, both presented on human HeLa cells. Specific trypsiligase recognition of the site of linkage was mediated by the dipeptide sequence Arg‐His added to the proteins’ native N termini, pointing outside the cell membrane. The labeling procedure takes only about 5 minutes, as demonstrated for couplings of the fluorescence dye tetramethyl rhodamine and the affinity label biotin as well.
Immunotherapy using Histobulin in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Noh Geunwoong
Published: November 2020

Histobulin was effective in atopic dermatitis. Allergic diseases may be classified as allergen‐specific and non–allergen‐specific. Histobulin appears to exert immediate preventive effects against upper respiratory infection.
The occurrence of giant mesenteric cyst and adrenal ganglioneuroma in a schizophrenic male patient presenting as pseudocyesis: A case report
Authors: Negahi Alireza , Jahanshahi Fatemeh , Boozari Behnaz , Sadeghipour Alireza
Published: November 2020

In psychological patients like our case, somatically expressed symptoms which can imply another psychological syndrome should be dealt with cautiously.
Minimally invasive tricuspid valve surgery and concomitant MAZE procedure with closure of LA appendage through an ASD
Authors: Chang Guohao , Kang Giap Swee , Alexiou Christos George , Kofidis Theodoros
Published: November 2020

Utilization of the ASD as a gateway to reach the left heart in tricuspid valve surgery may facilitate the use of a mini right thoracotomy and single atriotomy approach, avoiding the need for bi‐atrial incisions and/or median sternotomy.
Clinical course of Capnocytophaga canimorsus bacteremia from acute onset to life crisis
Authors: Tsunoda Hideki , Nomi Hidetomo , Okada Kunihiko , Kenzaka Tsuneaki
Published: November 2020

Capnocytophaga canimorsus bacteremia can present without signs of sepsis just after onset. For patients with fever, discerning the history of an animal bite is crucial. If it is positive for a dog bite, antibiotic treatment should be started.
Point‐of‐care ultrasound: Closing guideline gaps in screening for valvular heart disease
Authors: Hammadah Muhammad , Ponce Christopher , Sorajja Paul , Cavalcante João L. , Garcia Santiago , Gössl Mario
Published: November 2020

Background

A linear increase in the number of valvular heart disease is expected due to the aging population, yet most patients with severe valvular heart disease remain undiagnosed.

Hypothesis

POCUS can serve as a screening tool for valvular heart disease.

Methods

We reviewed the literature to assess the strengths and limitations of POCUS in screening and diagnosing valvular heart disease.

Results

POCUS is an accurate, affordable, accessible, and comprehensive tool. It has a fast learning curve and can prevent unnecessary and more expensive imaging. Challenges include training availability, lack of simplified screening protocols, and reimbursement. Large scale valvular screening data utilizing POCUS is not available.

Conclusion

POCUS can serve as a screening tool and guide the management of patients with valvular heart disease. More data is needed about its efficacy and cost‐effectiveness in the screening of patients with valvular heart disease.
The Two‐Dimensional Electrides XONa (X=Mg, Ca) as Novel Natural Hyperbolic Materials
Authors: Choe Myong‐Il , Kim Kwang‐Hyon , Wi Ju‐Hyok
Published: November 2020

In two‐dimensional electrides, anionic electrons are spatially confined in interlayer regions with high density, comparable to metals, and they are highly mobile, just as free electrons, resembling hyperbolic metamaterials with metal‐dielectric multilayered structures. In this work, two‐dimensional electride materials MgONa and CaONa are proposed as good natural hyperbolic materials. By using the first‐principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT), the electronic structures, stabilities, and optical properties of two‐dimensional electride materials XONa (X=Mg, Ca) are investigated. Our results show that they are stable in 1‐monolayer (1‐ML) structures as well as in bulk states. They exhibit hyperbolic dispersions from visible to near infrared spectral range with high qualities up to about 700, which is two orders‐of‐magnitude larger than the preceding bulk hyperbolic materials. Numerical results reveal that they exhibit negative refraction with low losses. Their high‐quality hyperbolic responses over a wide spectral range pave the way of broad photonic applications as natural hyperbolic materials.
Controlling Gene‐Silencing with Azobenzene‐Containing siRNAs (siRNAzos)
Authors: Hammill Matthew L. , Islam Golam , Desaulniers Jean‐Paul
Published: November 2020

This article contains the detailed biophysical characterization, biological testing, and photo‐switching protocols of azobenzene containing siRNAs (siRNAzos), which have photoswitchable properties that can be controlled with light. First, the siRNAzos are characterized by annealing the sense and anti‐sense strands together and then measuring the circular dichroism (CD) profile, and the melting temperatures (Tm) of the duplexes. Second, the biological testing of the siRNAzos in cell culture is done to determine their gene silencing efficacy. Finally, their gene‐silencing activities are measured after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light in order to inactivate the siRNAzo, and then broadband visible light, which re‐activates the siRNAzo. This inactivation/reactivation protocol can be done in real time, and is reversible and robust and can be performed multiple times on the same sample if desired. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Bio‐physical characterization of siRNAzo duplexes

Basic Protocol 2: Evaluation of azobenzene gene‐silencing using Firefly Luciferase

Basic Protocol 3: Evaluation of azobenzene gene‐silencing using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR)
Assessing Transporter‐Mediated Natural Product‐Drug Interactions Via In vitro‐In Vivo Extrapolation: Clinical Evaluation With a Probe Cocktail
Authors: Nguyen James T. , Tian Dan‐Dan , Tanna Rakshit S. , Hadi Deena L. , Bansal Sumit , Calamia Justina C. , Arian Christopher M. , Shireman Laura M. , Molnár Bálint , Horváth Miklós , Kellogg Joshua J. , Layton Matthew E. , White John R. , Cech Nadja B. , Boyce Richard D. , Unadkat Jashvant D. , Thummel Kenneth E. , Paine Mary F.
Published: November 2020

The botanical natural product goldenseal can precipitate clinical drug interactions by inhibiting cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A and CYP2D6. Besides P‐glycoprotein, effects of goldenseal on other clinically relevant transporters remain unknown. Established transporter‐expressing cell systems were used to determine the inhibitory effects of a goldenseal extract, standardized to the major alkaloid berberine, on transporter activity. Using recommended basic models, the extract was predicted to inhibit the efflux transporter BCRP and uptake transporters OATP1B1/3. Using a cocktail approach, effects of the goldenseal product on BCRP, OATP1B1/3, OATs, OCTs, MATEs, and CYP3A were next evaluated in 16 healthy volunteers. As expected, goldenseal increased the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC0–inf) of midazolam (CYP3A; positive control), with a geometric mean ratio (GMR) (90% confidence interval (CI)) of 1.43 (1.35–1.53). However, goldenseal had no effects on the pharmacokinetics of rosuvastatin (BCRP and OATP1B1/3) and furosemide (OAT1/3); decreased metformin (OCT1/2, MATE1/2‐K) AUC0–inf (GMR, 0.77 (0.71–0.83)); and had no effect on metformin half‐life and renal clearance. Results indicated that goldenseal altered intestinal permeability, transport, and/or other processes involved in metformin absorption, which may have unfavorable effects on glucose control. Inconsistencies between model predictions and pharmacokinetic outcomes prompt further refinement of current basic models to include differential transporter expression in relevant organs and intestinal degradation/metabolism of the precipitant(s). Such refinement should improve in vitro‐in vivo prediction accuracy, contributing to a standard approach for studying transporter‐mediated natural product‐drug interactions.