bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic overall water splitting by graphitic carbon nitride
Authors: Niu Ping , Dai Junjing , Zhi Xiaojuan , Xia Zhonghui , Wang Shulan , Li Li
Published: June 2021

Photocatalytic overall water splitting (OWS) without using any sacrificial reagent to realize H2 and O2 production in the stoichiometric ratio of 2:1 is viewed as the “holy grail” in the field of solar fuel production. Developing stable, low cost, and nontoxic photocatalysts that have satisfactory solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency is of significance but challenging for realizing the large‐scale use of this sustainable technology. Among various photocatalysts, graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) has shown great potential as an ideal candidate to fulfill the breakthrough in this dynamic research field due to its attractive physicochemical properties. Herein, for the first time, the state‐of‐the‐art research progress of GCN for photocatalytic OWS is reviewed. We first summarize the basic principle of photocatalytic OWS along with the advantages/challenges of GCN introduced. The strategies that have been used to modulate the OWS activity of GCN are then reviewed, including cocatalyst investigation, morphology modulation, atomic structure modification, crystallinity engineering, and heterostructure construction. Toward the end of the review, the concluding remarks and perspectives for the future development are presented, with our expectation to provide some new ideas for the design of advanced OWS photocatalysts.

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Endogenous FGF‐2 levels impact FGF‐2/BMP‐2 growth factor delivery dosing in aged murine calvarial bone defects
Authors: Kuhn Liisa T. , Peng Tao , Gronowicz Gloria , Hurley Marja M
Published: June 2021

Bone repair in elderly mice has been shown to be improved or negatively impacted by supplementing the highly osteogenic bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) with fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2). To better predict the outcome of FGF‐2 supplementation, we investigated whether endogenous levels of FGF‐2 play a role in optimal dosing of FGF‐2 for augmenting BMP‐2 activity in elderly mice. In vivo calvarial bone defect studies in Fgf2 knockout mice with wildtype controls were conducted with the growth factors delivered in a highly localized manner from a biomimetic calcium phosphate/polyelectrolyte multilayer coating applied to a bone graft substitute. Endogenous FGF‐2 levels were measured in old mice versus young and found to decrease with age. Optimal dosing for improving bone defect repair correlated with levels of endogenous FGF‐2, with a larger dose of FGF‐2 required to have a positive effect on bone healing in the Fgf2 knockout mice. The same dose in wildtype old mice, with higher levels of FGF‐2, promoted chondrogenesis and increased osteoclast activity. The results suggest a personalized medicine approach, based on a knowledge of endogenous levels of FGF‐2, should guide FGF‐2 supplementation in order to avoid provoking excessive bone resorption and cartilage formation, both of which inhibited calvarial bone repair.
Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D is associated with fracture risk only during periods of seasonally high levels in women with a high body mass index
Authors: Michaëlsson Karl , Byberg Liisa , Svennblad Bodil , Larsson Susanna C. , Baron John A. , Melhus Håkan
Published: June 2021

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (S-25OHD) is used to assess vitamin D status and is known to be affected by season and fat mass. Because these factors are often ignored when interpreting S-25OHD, assessment of vitamin D associations with disease outcomes may be distorted. We aimed to investigate the impact of season of blood draw and fat mass on the association of S25OHD with fracture risk. We enrolled 5000 women, mean ± SD age 68 ± 7 years, with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans and blood collection in a population-based cohort. Proportional hazards regression, stratified by season and fat mass, was used to determine hazard ratios (HRs) of fracture according to categories of S-25OHD. Our secondary exposures were serum 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-(OH)2 D3), the most active vitamin D metabolite and plasma parathyroid hormone (P-PTH). During an average of 9.2 years of follow-up, 1080 women had a fracture. Women with S-25OHD <30 nmol/L drawn during sunny months (May–October) had a multivariable-adjusted fracture HR of 2.06 (95% CI, 1.27–3.35) compared with those with S-25OHD >60 nmol/L; those with S-25OHD 30–40 nmol/L had an HR of 1.59 (95% CI, 1.12–2.26). In contrast, S-25OHD drawn during November through April was unrelated to fracture risk. The increased risk with low sunny season S-25OHD was seen only among women with body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 or fat mass index (FMI) ≥9.8 kg/m2. High fat mass and low S-25OHD were independently related to lower S-1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, which itself predicted fracture risk with samples collected during the sunny season. Irrespective of season, P-PTH was unrelated to fracture risk. We conclude that S-25OHD is associated with fracture risk only if drawn during periods of seasonally high levels in women with a high BMI. These results have implications for the evaluation of vitamin D status and can explain the lack of effect seen with vitamin D supplementation in many fracture trials. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
A functional three-dimensional microphysiological human model of myeloma bone disease
Authors: Visconti Richard J. , Kolaja Kyle , Cottrell Jessica A.
Published: June 2021

Human myeloma bone disease (MBD) occurs when malignant plasma cells migrate to the bone marrow and commence inimical interactions with stromal cells, disrupting the skeletal remodeling process. The myeloma cells simultaneously suppress osteoblastic bone formation while promoting excessive osteoclastic resorption. This bone metabolism imbalance produces osteolytic lesions that cause chronic bone pain and reduce trabecular and cortical bone structural integrity, and often culminate in pathological fractures. Few bone models exist that enable scientists to study MBD and the effect therapies have on restoring the bone metabolism imbalance. The purpose of this research was to develop a well characterized three-dimensional (3D) bone organoid that could be used to study MBD and current or potential treatment options. First, bone marrow stromal cell–derived osteoblasts (OBs) mineralized an endosteal-like extracellular matrix (ECM) over 21 days. Multiple analyses confirmed the generation of hydroxyapatite (HA)-rich bone-like tissue fragments that were abundant in alkaline phosphatase, calcium, and markers of osteoblastic gene expression. On day 22, bone marrow macrophage (BMM)–derived osteoclasts (OCs) were introduced to enhance the resorptive capability of the model and recapitulate the balanced homeostatic nature of skeletal remodeling. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRAcP-5b), type I collagen C-telopeptide (CTX-1), and gene expression analysis confirmed OC activity in the normal 3D organoid (3D in vitro model of normal bonelike fragments [3D-NBF]). On day 30, a human multiple myeloma (MM)–derived plasmacytoma cell line was introduced to the 3D-NBF to generate the 3D-myeloma bone disease organoid (3D-MBD). After 12 days, the 3D-MBD had significantly reduced total HA, increased TRAcP-5b levels, increases levels of CTX-1, and decreased expression of osteoblastic genes. Therapeutic intervention with pharmaceutical agents including an immunomodulatory drug, a bisphosphonate, and monoclonal restored HA content and reduced free CTX-1 in a dose-dependent manner. This osteogenically functional model of MBD provides a novel tool to study biological mechanisms guiding the disease and to screen potential therapeutics. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
The vitellogenin genes in Cynops orientalis: New insights on the evolution of the vtg gene family in amphibians
Authors: Carducci Federica , Biscotti Maria A. , Canapa Adriana , Barucca Marco
Published: June 2021

The vitellogenins (Vtgs) are glycolipophosphoproteins that play a key role in constituting nutritional reserves for embryo development in nonmammalian vertebrates. However, additional functional roles have been evidenced. These vtg genes are present in multiple copies, different in number and sequences in various vertebrate lineages. The comprehension of the vtg gene family evolutionary history remains a matter of intense interrogation for this field of research. In tetrapods, information about vtg genes are limited to few taxa. Up to date concerning amphibians, detailed studies have been conducted only in Anura. Therefore, in this study, to further increase knowledge about vtg genes in Amphibia class, the urodele Cynops orientalis (Amphibia: Caudata) was analyzed and four complete vtg sequences were obtained. Moreover, genomic data available for the caecilians Microcaecilia unicolor and Rhinatrema bivittatum (Amphibia: Gymnophiona) were also included. In these amphibians, our findings evidenced the presence of a vtgI sequence ortholog to that of tetrapods, absent in Anura. Moreover, microsyntenic, phylogenetic, and gene conversion analyses allowed postulating two hypotheses to explain the complex evolutionary history of this gene family.
A cost‐effectiveness analysis of lusutrombopag for thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic liver disease in Japan
Authors: Miki Norikane , Inoue Sachie , Shibahara Hidetoshi , Kurazono Kenji , Perard Rodolphe , Tateishi Ryosuke
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim

Thrombocytopenia is a frequent hematological condition in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients increasing the risk of bleeding in patients undergoing invasive procedures. Without an alternative, clinical guidelines recommended the use of platelet transfusion (PT) prior to procedure to prevent this bleeding risk. Lusutrombopag (LUSU), an orally active, small‐molecule thrombopoietin receptor agonist, was developed as an alternative to PT. The objective of this study was to evaluate a cost‐effectiveness of LUSU as a potential alternative to PT in Japan.

Methods

A cost‐effectiveness analysis of LUSU relative to PT was conducted by a simulation model consisting of a decision tree combined to Markov model. Quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were used as an indicator of efficacy, and the analysis was conducted from the Japanese public healthcare payer's perspective. The time horizon of the analysis was 50 years (a lifetime) and the discount rate was set at 2%.

Results

LUSU gained 6.1803 QALYs with an expected lifetime costs of 2 380 219 JPY compared to PT with 6.1712 QALYs gained and expected lifetime costs of 2 382 908 JPY. Thus, LUSU was deemed dominant compared with PT. Based on probabilistic analyses, the chance of LUSU being dominant and the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio being below 5 million JPY/QALY was estimated at 51.8% and 78.3%, respectively, demonstrating the robustness of the results.

Conclusions

LUSU was evaluated as an efficacious and cost‐saving treatment option for Japanese CLD patients with thrombocytopenia who required a planned invasive procedure compared with PT and economically should be considered as an alternative treatment.
Surgical outcome of Mirizzi syndrome: Value of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and laparoscopic procedures
Authors: Yeh Chun‐Nan , Wang Shang‐Yu , Liu Keng‐Hao , Yeh Ta‐Sen , Tsai Chun‐Yi , Tseng Jeng‐Hwei , Wu Chi‐Huan , Liu Nai‐Jen , Chu Yin‐Yi , Jan Yi‐Yin
Published: June 2021

Background

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with associated procedures and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) have been the standard treatments for both common and rare biliary diseases. Mirizzi syndrome (MS) is a rare and complex biliary condition. We report our experience with MS treatment and investigate the value of laparoscopic procedures and ERCP in patient management.

Methods

From 2004 to 2017, 100 consecutive patients with MS were diagnosed by ERCP and underwent surgery in a referral center. Sixty patients were treated with intended LC, and 40 patients were treated with open cholecystectomy (OC). The clinical manifestations, ERCP and associated procedures, surgical procedures, and postoperative outcomes were investigated.

Results

The surgical mortality rate was 1%, while the surgical morbidity rate was 15%. The patients treated with intended LC suffered from less morbidity (5%). The percentage of postoperative residual biliary stones was 32% (n = 32), and only three patients underwent re‐operation (laparotomy) for stone removal. The laparotomy conversion rate in the intended LC group was 16.7% (10/60). The length of hospitalization for the patients with successful LC was significantly shorter than that for the patients with conversion and intended OC. Csendes classification was a risk factor for conversion from LC to OC (type I vs types II to V, P < .0001).

Conclusions

A combination of a laparoscopic procedure and ERCP may provide therapeutic benefits for patients with MS.
Detrimental effect of intraoperative hypothermia on pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A single‐centre retrospective study
Authors: Ju Jae‐Woo , Park So Jung , Yoon Susie , Lee Ho‐Jin , Kim Hongbeom , Lee Hyung‐Chul , Kim Won Ho , Jang Jin‑Young
Published: June 2021

Background

Although perioperative hypothermia was found to be associated with gastrointestinal anastomotic leakage in preclinical studies, its association with postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) following pancreaticoduodenectomy was never evaluated. We investigated the association between intraoperative hypothermia and clinically relevant (CR)‐POPF following pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 2163 consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy during 2007‐2019. Based on intraoperative time‐weighted average core temperature, patients were grouped into normothermia (36.0‐37.5°C), mild hypothermia (35.0‐<36.0°C), and severe hypothermia (<35°C). We conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis for CR‐POPF, a propensity score analysis using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to adjust the baseline differences between the three groups, followed by multivariable logistic regression with IPTW for CR‐POPF.

Results

Among the 2008 patients analysed, 1118 (55.7%) and 120 (6.0%) had mild and severe hypothermia, respectively, and 14.2% overall incidence of CR‐POPF. Severe intraoperative hypothermia was significantly associated with CR‐POPF before and after IPTW (before: odds ratio [OR] 1.79, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03‐3.09, P = .038; after: OR 2.48, 95% CI: 1.28‐4.81, P = .007); however, mild hypothermia had no significant associations.

Conclusion

Severe intraoperative hypothermia is significantly associated with the occurrence of CR‐POPF following pancreaticoduodenectomy, suggesting that hypothermia is deleterious on pancreaticojejunal anastomotic healing.
Millennials’ Leadership Skills for Promoting Flow and Profit in a Business Simulation
Authors: Badibanga Ali , Ohlson Matthew
Published: June 2021

Driven in part by the demands of an increasing number of millennial employees, organizations continue to shift away from traditional, hierarchical, command and control business strategies that may have focused solely on generating profit to enabling organizational cultures that focus on both people and profit. In the leadership business simulation, FLIGBY®, one approach to meeting the needs of the organization's people while generating profit is through promoting flow at work. The flow experience is the mental state of being motivated and fully immersed in an activity, resulting in energized focus and profound enjoyment, overall happiness and well‐being, and enhanced job and task performance. The current study analyzed data from 1,184 millennial managers who played FLIGBY®, a business simulation that gamifies leadership skills, flow, and profit outcomes. The results demonstrate strong collinearity among the eight leadership skills of interest, resulting in the factor load of a new singular variable, named social enterprise skill. The new variable was found to predict promoting flow and generating profit.
Traveling Volunteers: A Multi‐Vendor, Multi‐Center Study on Reproducibility and Comparability of 4D Flow Derived Aortic Hemodynamics in Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Demir Aylin , Wiesemann Stephanie , Erley Jennifer , Schmitter Sebastian , Trauzeddel Ralf Felix , Pieske Burkert , Hansmann Jochen , Kelle Sebastian , Schulz‐Menger Jeanette
Published: June 2021

Background

Implementation of four‐dimensional flow magnetic resonance (4D Flow MR) in clinical routine requires awareness of confounders.

Purpose

To investigate inter‐vendor comparability of 4D Flow MR derived aortic hemodynamic parameters, assess scan‐rescan repeatability, and intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility.

Study Type

Prospective multicenter study.

Population

Fifteen healthy volunteers (age 24.5 ± 5.3 years, 8 females).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T, vendor‐provided and clinically used 4D Flow MR sequences of each site.

Assessment

Forward flow volume, peak velocity, average, and maximum wall shear stress (WSS) were assessed via nine planes (P1–P9) throughout the thoracic aorta by a single observer (AD, 2 years of experience). Inter‐vendor comparability as well as scan‐rescan, intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility were examined.

Statistical Tests

Equivalence was tested setting the 95% confidence interval of intraobserver and scan‐rescan difference as the limit of clinical acceptable disagreement. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland–Altman plots were used for scan‐rescan reproducibility and intra‐ and interobserver agreement. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. ICCs ≥ 0.75 indicated strong correlation (>0.9: excellent, 0.75–0.9: good).

Results

Ten volunteers finished the complete study successfully. 4D flow derived hemodynamic parameters between scanners of three different vendors are not equivalent exceeding the equivalence range. P3–P9 differed significantly between all three scanners for forward flow (59.1 ± 13.1 mL vs. 68.1 ± 12.0 mL vs. 55.4 ± 13.1 mL), maximum WSS (1842.0 ± 190.5 mPa vs. 1969.5 ± 398.7 mPa vs. 1500.6 ± 247.2 mPa), average WSS (1400.0 ± 149.3 mPa vs. 1322.6 ± 211.8 mPa vs. 1142.0 ± 198.5 mPa), and peak velocity between scanners I vs. III (114.7 ± 12.6 cm/s vs. 101.3 ± 15.6 cm/s). Overall, the plane location at the sinotubular junction (P1) presented most inter‐vendor stability (forward: 78.5 ± 15.1 mL vs. 80.3 ± 15.4 mL vs. 79.5 ± 19.9 mL [P = 0.368]; peak: 126.4 ± 16.7 cm/s vs. 119.7 ± 13.6 cm/s vs. 111.2 ± 22.6 cm/s [P = 0.097]). Scan‐rescan reproducibility and intra‐ and interobserver variability were good to excellent (ICC ≥ 0.8) with best agreement for forward flow (ICC ≥ 0.98).

Data Conclusion

The clinical protocol used at three different sites led to differences in hemodynamic parameters assessed by 4D flow.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Mimicking partial to total placental insufficiency in a rabbit model of cerebral palsy
Authors: Shi Zhongjie , Luo Kehuan , Jani Sanket , February Melissa , Fernandes Nithi , Venkatesh Neha , Sharif Nadiya , Tan Sidhartha
Published: June 2021

All placental abruptions begin as partial abruptions, which sometimes manifest as fetal bradycardia. The progression from partial to total abruption was mimicked by a new rabbit model of placental insufficiency, and we compared it, with sufficient statistical power, with the previous model mimicking total placental abruption. The previous model uses total uterine ischemia at E22 or E25 (70% or 79% term, respectively), in pregnant New Zealand white rabbits for 40 min (Full H‐I). The new model, Partial+Full H‐I, added a 30‐min partial ischemia before the 40‐min total ischemia. Fetuses were delivered either at E31.5 (full term) vaginally for neurobehavior testing, or by C‐section at E25 for ex vivo brain cell viability evaluation. The onset of fetal bradycardia was within the first 2 min of either H‐I protocol. There was no difference between Full H‐I (n = 442 for E22, 312 for E25) and Partial+Full H‐I (n = 154 and 80) groups in death or severely affected kits at E22 (76% vs. 79%) or at E25 (66% vs. 64%), or normal kits at E22 or E25, or any of the individual newborn neurobehavioral tests at any age. No sex differences were found. Partial+Full H‐I (n = 6) showed less cell viability than Full H‐I (n = 8) at 72‐hr ex vivo in the brain regions studied. Partial+Full H‐I insult produced similar cerebral palsy phenotype as our previous Full H‐I model in a sufficiently powered study and may be more suitable for testing of potential neuroprotectants.
Complex changes of extreme precipitation in the warming climate of Poland
Authors: Pińskwar Iwona
Published: June 2021

This article examined changes in observed precipitation extremes in Poland in 1959–2018. The study period was divided into two parts: 1959–1988 and 1989–2018, in order to examine whether extreme events have changed with warming. The return intervals (2‐; 5‐; 10‐ and 15‐year) of maximum 24 hr precipitation for autumn for period 1989–2018 have shortened in reference to 1959–1988. Also during spring, return periods of 2‐, 5‐ and 10‐year have decreased, while for winter: 10‐ and 15‐year return intervals have shortened. Exceedance analysis above the values of the 95th and 99th percentiles of precipitation during rainy days for the reference period 1971–2000 jointly with daily mean temperatures above 5°C was conducted in two ways. Using one threshold for all the temperature ranges, the number of days above the 95th (99th) percentile for years 1989–2018 was found to be lower (higher) than for 1959–1988. Examination of values above the highest percentiles for every temperature range separately indicated that the number of days above both percentiles decreased while the mean intensity increased for 1989–2018. Total precipitation amount above the 95th percentile decreased, but above the 99th percentile increased. Also, finally the sensitivity of precipitation to temperature was examined: the scaling factor was calculated on the basis of pairs of 99th percentile of precipitation and daily mean temperature above 5°C and results show higher values for the warmer period, 1989–2018 (6.06%/°C) in comparison to 1959–1988 (5.26%/°C). Also, the relationship of four indices of precipitation with annual mean temperature was obtained with rather negative results and association with annual dew point temperature, where positive values of the Pearson correlation dominated. The results obtained in this study indicate increases in more extreme precipitation, that is, in 99th more than in 95th percentile, along with the progressing global warming.
Effects of oral probiotics administration on the expression of transforming growth factor β and the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 6, interleukin 17, and tumor necrosis factor α in skin wounds in rats
Authors: Tagliari Eliane , Campos Letícia Fuganti , Casagrande Thais Andrade Costa , Fuchs Taise , de Noronha Lúcia , Campos Antonio Carlos L.
Published: June 2021

Background

Cytokines and growth factors play key roles during the tissue repair process. We aim to evaluate the effect of perioperative oral of probiotics, on the healing process in skin wound in rats, by histological aspects, and by the expression of TGF‐β, and the pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL6, IL7, and TNF‐α.

Methods

72 adult male Wistar rats were split into two groups control (n = 36) and probiotic group (n = 36). Each group was subdivided into three subgroups with 12 animals each according to euthanasia day: 3rd, 7th, and 10th postoperative(PO) day.

Results

Wound contraction was faster with the use of probiotics (p = .013). Also fibrosis was significantly higher in the Probiotic group in the 7th PO day (p = .028). In the probiotic group, there was a reduction of TNF‐α at 3th PO day (p = .023); and a reduction of IL6 in 7th PO day (p = .030). There was also a reduction of the expression of IL‐17 in 3rd PO day (p = .039) and 7rd PO day (P = .024). In contrast, TGF‐β was lower in the 10th PO day (p = .031) in the probiotic group as compared to controls, indicating that the increase of the fibrosis caused negative feedback with the TGF‐β.

Conclusion

Probiotics are associated with a shorter inflammatory phase by attenuating the expression of cytokines IL‐6 and TNF‐α and accelerating the reduction of IL‐17 and TGF‐β, leading to faster and improved cutaneous healing in rats.
Salt resistance of interspecific crosses of domesticated and wild rice species
Authors: Wairich Andriele , Wember Louisa Sophie , Gassama Lamin J , Wu Lin‐Bo , Murugaiyan Varunseelan , Ricachenevsky Felipe Klein , Margis‐Pinheiro Marcia , Frei Michael
Published: June 2021

Background

Salt stress negatively affects rice growth and yield in many parts of the world. Cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) is very sensitive to salt stress. Breeding attempts to develop salinity‐adapted rice varieties have been hampered by the quantitative nature of adaptation and limited genetic variability in cultivated rice.

Aims

We aimed to explore the potential of wild rice species for improving adaptation to salinity. We screened two populations of introgression lines (ILs) derived from crosses between O. sativa (cv. Curinga) × O. meridionalis (CM population) and between O. sativa (cv. Curinga) × O. rufipogon (CR population) to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and associated resistance mechanisms to salt stress.

Methods

We used previously developed ILs and screened them for adaptation to salt stress. In addition, we performed physiological, biochemical, and mineral analysis with the most resistant ILs identified for each population.

Results

Three and 19 QTLs for different vegetation indices were identified for the CM and CR population, respectively. We identified two ILs with superior resistance to salinity. These ILs showed enhanced vegetation indexes and maintained relatively high gas exchange under salt stress. In addition, these ILs showed less damage to cell membranes and reduced formation of H2O2, when compared with the recurrent parent, O. sativa.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that rice wild relatives are promising sources of salinity resistance. Introgressions of O. meridionalis and O. rufipogon into the O. sativa genome can confer increased resistance to salinity excess.
Effect of paddy cultivation on the surface electrochemical properties of different‐sized particles of a Gleysol
Authors: Hong Zhineng , Bish David L. , Chang E , Yu Yuanchun , Dong Ying , Zhao Wenrui , Shi Renyong , Jiang Jun , Xu Renkou
Published: June 2021

Background

Limited information is available on the changes in surface electrochemical properties of different‐sized particles of an Anthrosol, compared with the corresponding parental upland soil.

Aims

Our overarching goal was to clarify the contribution of different‐sized particles to the soil surface charge. The specific objectives of this work were to examine the differences in the surface charge properties between the Anthrosol and its upland parental Gleysol and to reveal the properties of the different‐sized fractions separated from the Anthrosol, compared with those of the upland Gleysol.

Materials and methods

The properties (e.g., negative surface charge, zeta potential, and particle sedimentation) of different‐sized fractions of nanoparticle (NP), coarse colloid, silt, and sand fractions separated from an upland Gleysol and its derived Anthrosol were compared.

Results

NPs in both the Anthrosol and the Gleysol carried more negative charge than did the coarse colloids, with cation exchange capacities (CEC) being 186.5% and 58.8% greater, respectively. On the other hand, the presence of more positively charged Fe/Al (hydr)oxides compensated for the negative charge, resulted in a zeta potential of the NPs similar to that of the coarse colloids. More secondary minerals were observed in the coarse colloids of the Anthrosol than in the same fraction of the Gleysol, resulting in more negative charge on the surface of the Anthrosol coarse colloids. The coarse colloid fraction of the Anthrosol, therefore, had a greater CEC, despite representing a smaller mass fraction than in the Gleysol. Overall, the CEC of the Anthrosol was 21% lower than that of the parent Gleysol, which was consistent with the findings of the surface charge, using the cesium (Cs+)‐adsorption method. The sedimentation observations demonstrated that the suspension stability of the NPs was higher than that of the coarse colloids, and that they tended to disperse particularly under high pH conditions.

Conclusions

Although the surface charge potential of the Anthrosol was lower than that of the upland Gleysol, the accumulation of organic matter and formation of secondary phyllosilicates resulted in maintenance of the nutrient‐ and pollutant‐binding capacity and agricultural productivity of the Anthrosol.
Ultrasound‐assisted extraction of oil from hempseed (Cannabis sativaL.): Part 1
Authors: Esposito Marilena , Piazza Laura
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound‐assisted extraction of the intermediate product from the mechanical expression of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seed oil was investigated to improve the overall expression yield without compromising oil quality. Complementary ultrasound technology was used as an out‐of‐line treatment carried out at 20 kHz frequency and optimized with respect to amplitude (80 and 152 μm), sonication time (2, 10, 20 min) and to the hemp paste properties, in particular its particle size and hydration, which drive the compressibility of the press cake.

RESULTS

Under the conditions evaluated, the optimal ultrasound treatment was found to be the one applied on the hydrated press cake for 2 min at 152 μm, which resulted in an oil yield of 13.4%, with an increase in extraction efficiency equal to 73% with respect to the control (untreated press cake). Sonication had a positive effect on the press cake texture and on the extracted oil antioxidant activity. Soaked samples treated for 2 min at 152 μm yielded the lowest hardness. Oil recovered from soaked samples treated at 80 μm and 152 μm ultrasound for 2 min had the highest antioxidant capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

The technological results gathered in the present investigation are preliminary to the design and engineering of scaled‐up equipment that combines the mechanical screw expression and the in‐line ultrasound unit. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Reciprocal subsidies between temporary ponds and riparian forests
Authors: Fritz Kelley A. , Whiles Matt R.
Published: June 2021

Aquatic habitats are closely linked to surrounding terrestrial systems via reciprocal subsidies. Much of the research on aquatic–terrestrial subsidies has focused on streams and lakes, while subsidies across aquatic–terrestrial boundaries of other systems, like temporary ponds, have received less attention. To address the lack of information regarding cross‐habitat subsidies of temporary ponds, we quantified leaf litter inputs, amphibian egg inputs, terrestrial insect inputs, and amphibian metamorph and aquatic insect emergence for eight temporary ponds. We compared the relative magnitude of cross‐habitat biotic subsidies of temporary ponds to identify potentially important yet overlooked subsidies. Terrestrial insect inputs to ponds were the second largest subsidy (mean 15.3 g m−2 yr−1), exceeding combined emergence of amphibians and aquatic insects (mean 4.0 g m−2 yr−1), yet these high‐quality subsidies are generally unaccounted for in similar studies. Across the wetland complex, total amphibian emergence (8929.3 g yr−1) was nearly four times higher than total aquatic insect emergence (2491.9 g yr−1). Aquatic insect emergence was similar to that of lakes and streams while amphibian emergence was generally higher. Although larger ponds produced greater total fluxes to terrestrial habitats, smaller ponds were often more productive per unit area. Therefore, a mosaic of small ponds may produce greater or equivalent subsidies to terrestrial food webs than a single large pond. Given continued threats to temporary ponds and their connections to surrounding forests, management and restoration of these systems, as well as future studies, should take holistic approaches that account for the many aquatic–terrestrial linkages, and factors that influence them.
Subsurface dynamics of buoyant microplastics subject to algal biofouling
Authors: Kreczak Hannah , Willmott Andrew J. , Baggaley Andrew W.
Published: June 2021

Mathematical modeling offers an avenue to predict distributions of microplastics in the ocean. With this goal in mind this study presents a simple analytic model describing the deterministic dynamics of long‐time vertical motion of buoyant microplastics that have succumbed to biofouling in a quiescent ocean. The model couples equations governing vertical particle position and algal population dynamics and is formulated in a nondimensional frame work to determine the minimum number of system parameters. We present results which give a comprehensive understanding of the system's key dynamics when varying four parameters. Previous studies have shown that biofouling causes microplastic particles to oscillate below the ocean's surface; however, for the first time we are able to identify the fundamental processes that govern the microplastic trajectories. The model demonstrates that plastic particle properties are the biggest factor in determining the period and characteristics of the oscillation profile, while the algal population dynamics determine the maximum depth reached. As the fouled particles cross the pycnocline their long‐term behavior is to become trapped within a subsurface layer, bounded by the depth of the euphotic zone and the seasonal pycnocline. The smallest particles are extremely sensitive to algal cell attachment and growth suggesting they are always submerged at depths surrounding the base of the euphotic zone or could become trapped in large algal colonies. In general, the results suggest that a higher concentration of biofouled microplastic is expected to be found subsurface, trapped close to the euphotic zone depth rather than at the ocean's surface.
On‐Chip Integrated Waveguide Amplifiers on Erbium‐Doped Thin‐Film Lithium Niobate on Insulator
Authors: Zhou Junxia , Liang Youting , Liu Zhaoxiang , Chu Wei , Zhang Haisu , Yin Difeng , Fang Zhiwei , Wu Rongbo , Zhang Jianhao , Chen Wei , Wang Zhe , Zhou Yuan , Wang Min , Cheng Ya
Published: June 2021

On‐chip light amplification with integrated optical waveguide fabricated on erbium‐doped thin‐film lithium niobate on insulator (TFLNOI) is demonstrated using the photolithography‐assisted chemomechanical etching (PLACE) technique. A maximum internal net gain of 18 dB in the small‐signal‐gain regime is measured at the peak emission wavelength of 1530 nm for a waveguide length of 3.6 cm, indicating a differential gain per unit length of 5 dB cm−1. This work paves the way to the monolithic integration of diverse active and passive photonic components on the TFLNOI platform.
A Covalently Crosslinked Ink for Multimaterials Drop‐on‐Demand 3D Bioprinting of 3D Cell Cultures
Authors: Utama Robert H. , Tan Vincent T. G. , Tjandra Kristel C. , Sexton Andrew , Nguyen Duyen H. T. , O'Mahony Aidan P. , Du Eric Y. , Tian Peilin , Ribeiro Julio C. C. , Kavallaris Maria , Gooding J. Justin
Published: June 2021

In vitro 3D cell models have been accepted to better recapitulate aspects of in vivo organ environment than 2D cell culture. Currently, the production of these complex in vitro 3D cell models with multiple cell types and microenvironments remains challenging and prone to human error. Here, a versatile ink comprising a 4‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐based polymer with distal maleimide derivatives as the main ink component and a bis‐thiol species as the activator that crosslinks the polymer to form the hydrogel in less than a second is reported. The rapid gelation makes the polymer system compatible with 3D bioprinting. The ink is combined with a novel drop‐on‐demand 3D bioprinting platform, designed specifically for producing 3D cell cultures, consisting of eight independently addressable nozzles and high‐throughput printing logic for creating complex 3D cell culture models. The combination of multiple nozzles and fast printing logic enables the rapid preparation of many complex 3D cell cultures comprising multiple hydrogel environments in one structure in a standard 96‐well plate format. The platform's compatibility for biological applications is validated using pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cancer (PDAC) and human dermal fibroblast cells with their phenotypic responses controlled by tuning the hydrogel microenvironment.
Microgels Based on Carboxymethylpullulan Grafted with Ferulic Acid Obtained by Enzymatic Crosslinking in Emulsion for Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Dulong Virginie , Morel Morgane , Labat Béatrice , Picton Luc , Le Cerf Didier
Published: June 2021

Carboxymethylpullulan (CMP) grafted with ferulic acid (FA) is crosslinked with laccase by the reverse water‐in‐oil emulsion technique (with sunflower oil) to obtain microgels with size from 40 to 200 µm. It is demonstrated that laccase activity and dispersion time have an impact on microgels’ size. Fluorescence spectroscopy of different probes (e.g., pyrene, Nile red, and curcumin) shows the nonpolar characteristics of hydrophobic microdomains formed by the FA moieties and its dimers forming the crosslinking nodes. Encapsulation and release of curcumin or lidocaine used as drug models are studied in different buffers. Curcumin is well encapsulated but retained in microgels, while lidocaine is released at 65–70% in 2 h and 30 min in buffer simulating the gastrointestinal tract and at 75–85% in 1 h in acetate buffer pH 5.6 or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) pH 6.9.
Encapsulation of Drug‐Loaded Graphene Oxide‐Based Nanocarrier into Electrospun Pullulan Nanofibers for Potential Local Chemotherapy of Breast Cancer
Authors: Asgari Shadi , Pourjavadi Ali , Setayeshmehr Mohsen , Boisen Anja , Ajalloueian Fatemeh
Published: June 2021

With the high rate of mortality associated with breast cancer among women, breast cancer treatment has attracted great deal of attention globally. To reduce the exposure of body organs to high cytotoxicity of the common chemotherapeutic drugs, local co‐delivery of selected chemotherapeutics has emerged as a solution. In this work, an electrospun composite including a co‐drug‐loaded graphene oxide‐based nanocarrier is fabricated for local anticancer applications. To increase dispersion and cellular uptake of graphene oxide (GO), first, the hydroxyl groups at the edges of GO are grafted by poly (epichlorohydrin) (PCH) to form GO‐PCH. Then, the hydroxyl end groups of PCH are grafted (g) with hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) leading to formation of oxygen‐rich nanocarrier (GO‐PCH‐g‐HPG). Paclitaxel (PTX) and curcumin (Cur) are loaded into the GO‐PCH‐g‐HPG nanocarrier, and are encapsulated into pullulan nanofibers using electrospinning. SEM, FTIR, and UV–Vis characterizations confirmed the presence and distribution of the nanocarrier inside the nanofibers. The drugs showed a sustained release (93 h) from the nanocarrier‐loaded nanofibers in the neutral pH (7.4). According to MTT assay and optical microscopy, a synergistic cytotoxicity effect of PTX and Cur is observed. The nanocarrier‐encapsulated nanofiber system represents a novel tunable drug delivery system for local chemotherapeutic applications.
Super Chirality Promotion of Helical Poly(Phenyl Isocyanide)s by Grafting onto Ethyl Cellulose
Authors: Shen Xiaofei , Huang Hailong , Qian Hao , Tang Longxiang , Zhang Yan , Xu Min , Wang Huiqing , Wang Zhongkai
Published: June 2021

Chiral property of cellulose can be transferred to final materials, here artificial helical polymer, right‐handed helical poly(phenyl isocyanide) (PPI) is grafted onto ethyl cellulose (EC) with expecting to enhance the chiral effect of PPI. EC‐2,3‐g‐PPIn copolymers are prepared via “click” chemistry of copper‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition, and confirmed by high‐resolution 1H and 13C NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The resulting EC‐2,3‐g‐PPIn copolymer takes a right‐handed helical structure with super circular dichroism intensity which is 302% higher than that of PPI, which indicates that EC backbone promotes the right‐handed chirality of PPIn. Furthermore, EC‐2,3‐g‐PPIn exhibits good chiral recognition ability of the D/L‐Ala‐DNSP fluorescent probe, and induces a uniquely visible blue shift for L‐Ala‐DNSP. Therefore, a novel facile strategy is provided to highly improve chiral property and chiral recognition ability of artificial helical polymers by grafting onto EC.
Nonlinear Optical Stability of Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU)‐Containing Anthraquinones with High Transmittance
Authors: Cui Zengduo , Ding Jiale , Zhu Xuanbo , Li Bolong , Zhang Haibo , Zhang Yunhe , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: June 2021

In a previous study, three kinds of polymers are synthesized by the covalent bonding of three anthraquinone chromophores to polyphenylene sulfone. Herein, the nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of solutions and thin films of anthraquinone‐containing polyphenylsulfone, which can function as effective optical limiting materials are discussed in detail. The reasons for the improved NLO properties of the thin films are explained from the perspective of chromophore content, polarization orientation, and energy level transition. In addition, the NLO properties thermal stability and chemical stability of the three polymers are tested. The results show that the three types of polyphenylsulfone materials have excellent optical limiting properties. Further, since the nonlinear optical coefficient decreases by less than 8% after treatment by heat and acid or basic solutions, they exhibit excellent nonlinear optical stability.
A Molecular‐Level Interface Design Enabled High‐Strength and High‐Toughness Carbon Nanotube Buckypaper
Authors: Shen Lulu , Zhao Yushun , Owuor Peter Samora , Wang Chao , Sui Chao , Jia Shuai , Liang Jia , Liu Ling , Lou Jun
Published: June 2021

Buckypaper (BP) assembled by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is considered as a promising macroscopic material with excellent multifunctional properties. However, the poor interfacial stress‐transfer ability between CNTs seriously limits its further applications. This paper proposes a novel approach to simultaneously improve both the tensile strength and the toughness of BPs, where a commercial poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) dendrimer is utilized to serve as an interfacial bridging agent, by realizing effective chemical cross‐linking between CNTs. The result shows that the introduction of PAMAM can increase the tensile strength, Young's modulus, and toughness by 306%, 168%, 1007%, respectively, compared with that of pristine BPs based on weak van der Waals interactions. In addition, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is employed to reveal the proposed interfacial enhancement. It is found that the elastic deformation, uncoiling, interlocking of PAMAM dendrimers, and chemical bonds between PAMAM dendrimers and CNTs contribute to the improvement of the macroscopic strength and toughness of BPs. More importantly, it is found that the formed amido bonds are very strong, and the breakage of chemical bonds occurs at C─N bonds within PAMAM themselves. This work provides a new route for interfacial structure design and an in‐depth understanding of mechanical properties of BPs.
Ligand Valency Effects on the Alkaline Stability of Metallopolymer Anion‐Exchange Membranes
Authors: Aggarwal Kanika , Bsoul Saja , Li Songlin , Dekel Dario R. , Diesendruck Charles E.
Published: June 2021

Long‐term stability is a key requirement for anion‐exchange membranes (AEMs) for alkaline fuel cells and electrolyzers that is yet to be fulfilled. Different cationic chemistries are being exploited to reach such a goal, and metallopolymers present the unique advantage of chemical stability towards strong nucleophiles as compared to organic cations. Yet, the few metallopolymers tested in strongly alkaline conditions or even in fuel cells still degrade. Therefore, fundamental studies can be advantageous in directing future developments towards this goal. Here, a systematic study of the effect of ligand valency is presented, using nickel‐based metallopolymers on polynorbornene backbones, functionalized with multidentate pyridine ligands. Metallopolymers using a single ligand type as well as all the possible mixtures are prepared and their relative stability towards aggressive alkaline conditions compared. Metallopolymer in which nickel ions are hexacoordinated with two tridentate ligands demonstrates superior stability. More importantly, by comparing all the metallopolymers’ stability, the reason behind such relative stability provides design parameters for novel metallopolymer AEMs.
Vesicular Acetylcholine Transporter Alters Cholinergic Tone and Synaptic Plasticity in DYT1 Dystonia
Authors: Tassone Annalisa , Martella Giuseppina , Meringolo Maria , Vanni Valentina , Sciamanna Giuseppe , Ponterio Giulia , Imbriani Paola , Bonsi Paola , Pisani Antonio
Published: June 2021

Background

Acetylcholine‐mediated transmission plays a central role in the impairment of corticostriatal synaptic activity and plasticity in multiple DYT1 mouse models. However, the nature of such alteration remains unclear.

Objective

The aim of the present work was to characterize the mechanistic basis of cholinergic dysfunction in DYT1 dystonia to identify potential targets for pharmacological intervention.

Methods

We utilized electrophysiology recordings, immunohistochemistry, enzymatic activity assays, and Western blotting techniques to analyze in detail the cholinergic machinery in the dorsal striatum of the Tor1a+/− mouse model of DYT1 dystonia.

Results

We found a significant increase in the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) protein level, the protein responsible for loading acetylcholine (ACh) from the cytosol into synaptic vesicles, which indicates an altered cholinergic tone. Accordingly, in Tor1a+/− mice we measured a robust elevation in basal ACh content coupled to a compensatory enhancement of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzymatic activity. Moreover, pharmacological activation of dopamine D2 receptors, which is expected to reduce ACh levels, caused an abnormal elevation in its content, as compared to controls. Patch‐clamp recordings revealed a reduced effect of AChE inhibitors on cholinergic interneuron excitability, whereas muscarinic autoreceptor function was preserved. Finally, we tested the hypothesis that blockade of VAChT could restore corticostriatal long‐term synaptic plasticity deficits. Vesamicol, a selective VAChT inhibitor, rescued a normal expression of synaptic plasticity.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings indicate that VAChT is a key player in the alterations of striatal plasticity and a novel target to normalize cholinergic dysfunction observed in DYT1 dystonia. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Stability of stationary solutions for the unipolar isentropic compressible Navier–Stokes–Poisson system
Authors: Hong Hakho , Kim Jinsung
Published: June 2021

The stationary solutions to the outflow problem for unipolar isentropic Navier–Stokes–Poisson system in a half line (0, ∞) have recently been shown to be asymptotically stable in13 and26, provided that all the L2 norms of initial perturbations and their derivatives are small. The main purpose of this paper is to study the asymptotic stability of the stationary solutions under large initial perturbations. First, for the outflow problem, we show that the stationary solutions are asymptotically stable, provided that only the L2 norm of initial perturbation is small. Next, for the inflow problem, we show asymptotic stability under a large initial perturbation in the H1 norm. The main ingredient in the proofs is a careful analysis in order to control the growth induced by nonlinearities of the system in a priori estimates.