bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genoplasmics: Advancing Plant Germplasm Research through Genomics
Authors: Saha Sajal , Bhadana Deepa , Shah Pankaj Kumar , Chaturvedi H. P. , Verma P. N. , Das Rajib , Arya Rinkey , Kumar Pravesh , Agarwal Sagar , Rao D. Purushotama
Published: October 2023

Plant genetic resources (PGR) are crucial for crop improvement programs. The National Genebank (NGB) at ICAR-NBPGR is responsible for collecting, conserving, and facilitating the utilization of genetic diversity in crop plants. Plant germplasm forms the foundation for plant genetic improvement. Extensive germplasm collections have been amassed and stored, presenting the challenge of effectively harnessing and exploiting this valuable resource. Genomics-based plant germplasm research (GPGR), or genoplasmics, is an emerging interdisciplinary field that applies genomic principles and methods to germplasm study. This article outlines the concept, strategy, and approach of GPGR, highlighting recent advancements in core collection creation, germplasm enhancement through core collections, and gene discovery from core collections. GPGR represents a significant milestone in germplasm research, ushering in a new scientific investigation and innovation era.
In-vitro Evaluation of Botanicals and Fungicides against Cercospora capsici Causing Leaf Spot of Chilli
Authors: Reddy Mule Harindra , Patel S. K. , Jyothi N. Shiva , Vydyanad Talapati A. C.
Published: October 2023

One of the most significant spice crops worldwide is the chilli. It is also the most significant spice crop in India and belongs to the Solanaceae family, which has nutritional benefits and is particularly rich in vitamin C. The low yield of the country's chilli crop is caused by a variety of reasons, but fungi-induced diseases constitute a major contributor. One of the main issues with chilli cultivation in India is the fungal disease Cercospora leaf spot. In the present investigation, five botanicals viz., Azadirachta indica leaf, Alium cepa bulb, Citrus lemon leaf, Datura fastussa leaf and Mamordica charantia leaf and five fungicides viz., Mancozeb 75% WP, Carbendazim 50% WP, Difenoconazole 25% EC, Fluciazole - 40%EC and Azoxystrobin 23% SC were evaluated against the growth of Cercospora capsici. Azadirachta indica leaf and Datura fastussa leaf were found effective among all the botanicals and Difenoconazole 25% EC was found most effective among all the fungicides.
Estimation of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]
Authors: Meena P. K. P. , Bishnoi Ruchi
Published: October 2023

Twenty seven genotypes of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss] were evaluated for genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for nine yield and yield attributing characters. The experiment was carried out during Rabi 2022-2023 in Randomized Block Design (RBD) at Agricultural Research Station, Ummedganj-Kota, Rajasthan. ANOVA of nine quantitative characters revealed significant differences at 1% level of significance. Mean values of seed yield showed that NPJ 261 had highest seed yield (3,143 kg/ha) followed by RH 2199 and RB-110. Also, they were at par with each other. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was found in number of secondary branches per plant. Phenotypic variance had higher values than genotypic variance indicating the influence of environment. High heritability estimates coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (GAM) were reported for number of secondary branches per plant, number of siliquae per plant and 1000-seed weight. These characters are highly heritable as they are governed by additive gene action. Selection for these characters will be effective in future breeding programmes. Hence, breeders should emphasize on these characters in Indian mustard genotypes for higher yield or productivity.
Inequality in workplace support for various types of precarious workers compared with permanent workers in Japan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Sakai Kosuke , Nagata Tomohisa , Odagami Kiminori , Adi Nuri Purwito , Nagata Masako , Mori Koji
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine, by sex, whether precarious workers in Japan receive less support in the workplace than permanent workers.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire in 2022. We stratified participants by sex and performed modified Poisson regression analysis. The outcomes were support from supervisors, co-workers, occupational health professionals, and no one. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were calculated for contract workers, part-time workers, and dispatched workers, using permanent workers as reference.

Results

This study had 21 047 participants. For men, 87.9% were permanent workers; for women, 50.7% were permanent workers and 37.3% were part-time workers. For workplace support, 47.5% of men and 45.2% of women selected superiors; 41.8% of men and 50.5% of women selected colleagues; 16.8% of men and 6.2% of women selected occupational health professionals. Female contract workers were less likely to receive support from their supervisors (aPR 0.88) or co-workers (aPR 0.89). Male part-time workers were less likely to be supported by their co-workers (aPR 0.86). Dispatched workers were less likely to be supported by their supervisors (men aPR 0.71, women aPR 0.84) and co-workers (men aPR 0.73, women aPR 0.77). Part-time and dispatched workers were less likely to receive support from occupational health professionals.

Conclusions

Precarious workers could get less workplace support than permanent workers. This may contribute to occupational health problems with precarious workers.
The implementation of an image‐guided system at a proton therapy center facility
Authors: Arjomandy Bijan , Bejarano Buele Ana Isabel , Clinthorne Neal , Vujasevic Milos , Athar Basit , Deemer James , Alkhatib Ahmad , Hussain Abrar
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Pencil Beam Scanning (PBS) proton therapy has similar requirements on patient alignment to within 1 mm and 1‐degree accuracy as photon radiosurgery. This study describes general workflow, acceptance, and commissioning test procedures and their respective results for an independent robotic arm used for Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) for a Proton Therapy System.

Methods

The system is equipped with kV‐imaging techniques capable of orthogonal and Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging modalities mounted on an independent robotic arm gantry attached to the ceiling. The imaging system is capable of 360‐degree rotation around patients to produce CBCT and kilovoltage orthogonal images. The imaging hardware is controlled by Ehmet Health XIS software, and MIM Software handles the image fusion and registration to an acceptable accuracy of ≤1‐mm shifts for patients’ alignment. The system was tested according to the requirements outlined in the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) Task Group (TG) 142 and TG 179. The system tests included (1) safety, functionality, and connectivity, (2) mechanical testing, (3) image quality, (4) image registration, and (5) imaging dose. Additional tests included imaging gantry isocentricity with a laser tracker and collision‐avoiding system checks.

Results

The orthogonal and volumetric imaging are comparable in quality to other commercially available On‐Board Imagers (OBI) systems. The resulting spatial resolution values were 1.8‐, 0.8‐, and 0.5‐Line Pairs per Millimeter (lp/mm) for orthogonal, full‐fan CBCT, and half‐fan CBCT, respectively. The image registration is accurate to within 1 mm and 1 degree. The data shows consistent imaging‐guided system performance with standard deviations in x, y, and z of 0.7, 0.8, and 0.7 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

The system provides excellent image quality and performance, which can be used for IGRT. The proven accuracy of the x‐ray imaging and positioning system at McLaren Proton Therapy Center (MPTC) is 1 mm, making it suitable for proton therapy.
A robust evaluation of 49 high‐dose‐rate prostate brachytherapy treatment plans including all major uncertainties
Authors: Kennedy Andrew Christopher , Douglass Michael John James , Santos Alexandre Manuel Caraça
Published: October 2023

Background

Uncertainties in radiotherapy cause deviation from the planned dose distribution and may result in delivering a treatment that fails to meet clinical objectives. The impact of uncertainties is unique to the patient anatomy and the needle locations in HDR prostate brachytherapy. Evaluating this impact during treatment planning is not common practice, relying on margins around the target or organs‐at‐risk to account for uncertainties.

Purpose

A robust evaluation framework for HDR prostate brachytherapy treatment plans was evaluated on 49 patient plans, measuring the range of possible dosimetric outcomes to the patient due to 14 major uncertainties.

Methods

Patient plans were evaluated for their robustness to uncertainties by simulating probable uncertainty scenarios. Five‐thousand probabilistic and 1943 worst‐case scenarios per patient were simulated by changing the position and size of structures and length of dwell times from their nominal values. For each uncertainty scenario, the prostate D90 and maximum doses to the urethra, D0.01cc, and rectum, D0.1cc, were calculated.

Results

The D90 was an average 1.16 ± 0.51% (mean ± SD) below nominal values for the probabilistic scenarios; the D0.01cc metric was 2.24 ± 0.90% higher; and D0.1cc was greater by 0.48 ± 0.30%. The D0.01cc and D90 metrics were more sensitive to uncertainties than D0.1cc, with a median of 79.0% and 84.9% of probabilistic scenarios passing the constraints, compared to 96.5%. The median pass‐rate for scenarios that passed all three metrics simultaneously was 63.4%.

Conclusions

Assessing treatment plan robustness improves plan quality assurance, is achievable in less than 1‐min, and identifies treatment plans with poor robustness, allowing re‐optimization before delivery.
Synchronization of stochastic memristive neural networks via event‐triggered impulsive control
Authors: Zhang Zhenning , Mu Xiaowu , Hu Zenghui
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the synchronization problem for master‐slave stochastic memristive neural networks (SMNNs) with time‐delay via event‐triggered impulsive control (ETIC). Firstly, a novel ETIC method is designed for SMNNs to realize quasi‐synchronization in mean square sense. Different from time‐triggered impulsive control (TTIC) in the existing results on SMNNs, the proposed event‐triggered method determines impulsive instants based on the real‐time system states, which can reduce redundant impulses. Compared with the existing ETIC for deterministic memristive neural networks (MNNs), the proposed event‐triggered mechanism (ETM) can exclude Zeno behavior completely by adding the waiting time, when stochastic disturbances occur in MNNs. Secondly, if the master SMNNs have nonzero control inputs, an adaptive‐impulsive hybrid controller with ETM is designed to realize almost surely exponential synchronization. Under the ETM, the number of transmitted events is reduced, then control resources can be saved. Zeno behavior can be excluded in almost sure sense. Ultimately, simulations are presented to illustrate the validity of the obtained results.
Injectable Hydrogels Prepared Using Novel Synthetic Short Peptides with Defined Structure and Gelatin as Scaffolds to Support Cell and Tissue Growth
Authors: Lee Ashlynn Ling Zhi , Balakrishnan Nithiyaa , Ng Jian Yao , Liu Shaoqiong , Ong Zhan Yuin , Wang Yanming , Gao Shujun , Yang Yi Yan
Published: October 2023

Animal‐derived basement‐membrane matrices such as Geltrex are used to grow cells and tissues. Particularly, these are commonly applied to support tumor growth in animals for cancer research. However, a material derived from an animal source has an undefined composition, and may thus have unavoidable batch‐to‐batch variation in properties. To overcome these issues, a series of synthetic short peptides to form hydrogels is designed in combination with gelatin to promote cell adhesion and growth. The peptides have sequences of (X1Y1X2Y2)2, where X1 and X2 are hydrophobic residues, while Y1 and Y2 are hydrophilic residues. The peptides spontaneously fold and self‐assemble into a β‐sheet secondary structure upon contact with salts, and then aggregate to form hydrophilic networks of hydrogels. Hybrid hydrogels formed by mixing the peptide IEVEIRVK (IVK8) with gelatin are injectable and enzymatically degradable. The hybrid hydrogels at optimal compositions support SW480 and HepG2 tumor spheroid growth in vitro as effectively as Geltrex. More importantly, the peptide/gelatin hydrogels support tumor growth in a SW480 human colorectal adenocarcinoma xenograft mouse model. Altogether, the results illustrate that the synthetic peptide/gelatin hybrid hydrogel is a promising scaffold that can be used to support cell and tissue growth both in vitro and in vivo.
Revealing the Deposition Mechanism of the Powder Aerosol Deposition Method Using Ceramic Oxide Core–Shell Particles
Authors: Linz Mario , Bühner Florian , Paulus Daniel , Hennerici Lukas , Guo Yiran , Mereacre Valeriu , Mansfeld Ulrich , Seipenbusch Martin , Kita Jaroslaw , Moos Ralf
Published: October 2023

The powder aerosol deposition (PAD) method is a process to manufacture ceramic films completely at room temperature. Since the first reports by Akedo in the late 1990s, much research has been conducted to reveal the exact mechanism of the deposition process. However, it is still not fully understood. This work tackles this challenge using core–shell particles. Two coated oxides, Al2O3 core with a SiO2 shell and LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 core with a LiNbO3 shell, are investigated. Initially, the element ratios Al:Si and Ni:Nb of the powder are determined by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). In a second step, the change in the element ratios of Al:Si and Ni:Nb after deposition is investigated. The element ratios from powder to film strongly shift toward the shell elements, indicating that the particles fracture and only the outer parts of the particles are deposited. In the last step, this work investigates cross‐sections of the deposited films with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM combined with EDX and an energy‐selective back‐scattered electron (EsB) detector to unveil the element distribution within the film itself. Therefore, the following overall picture emerges: particles impact on the substrate or on previously deposited particle, fracture, and only a small part of the impacting particles that originate from the outer part of the impacting particle gets deposited.
African Americans and federal land policy: Exploring the Homestead Acts of 1862 and 1866
Authors: Muhammad Andrew , Sichko Christopher , Olsson Tore C.
Published: October 2023

We examine the history of US land policy, with a focus on the Homestead Acts, underscoring the precarious position of African Americans during the homesteading period. We discuss the historical context and the shifting political landscape of the Civil War and Reconstruction era, providing the context for research on federal land policies and problems of race. Past research is almost entirely outside of the agricultural and applied economics profession. We believe that the applied economics discipline is especially suited for empirically examining the influence of federal land policies on past and present disparities and racial makeup of American agriculture.
Biomimetic Fe7S8/Carbon electrocatalyst from [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase for improving pH‐Universal electrocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Kim Dohun , Surendran Subramani , Im Sejin , Lim Jaehyoung , Jin Kyoungsuk , Nam Ki Tae , Sim Uk
Published: October 2023

Efficient and cost‐effective electrocatalysts that can operate across a wide range of pH conditions are essential for green hydrogen production. Inspired by biological systems, Fe7S8 nanoparticles incorporated on polydopamine matrix electrocatalyst were synthesized by co‐precipitation and annealing process. The resulting Fe7S8/C electrocatalyst possesses a three‐dimensional structure and exhibits enhanced electrocatalytic performance for hydrogen production across various pH conditions. Notably, the Fe7S8/C electrocatalyst demonstrates exceptional activity, achieving low overpotentials of 90.6, 45.9, and 107.4 mV in acidic, neutral, and alkaline environments, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy reveals that Fe7S8/C exhibits the lowest charge transfer resistance under neutral conditions, indicating an improved proton‐coupled electron transfer process. Continuous‐wave electron paramagnetic resonance results confirm a change in the valence state of Fe from 3+ to 1+ during the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). These findings closely resemble the behavior of natural [FeFe]‐hydrogenase, known for its superior hydrogen production in neutral conditions. The remarkable performance of our Fe7S8/C electrocatalyst opens up new possibilities for utilizing bioinspired materials as catalysts for the HER.
Why presumptions are important in occupational health: The example of COVID‐19 infection as an occupational disease
Authors: Laskaris Zoey , Markowitz Steven B.
Published: October 2023

Workers who become ill or injured on the job while undertaking extraordinary risks on behalf of the public are, at times, granted facilitated access to workers' compensation (WC) benefits through the application of presumptions in the compensation process. Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, a broad range of occupational groups faced an elevated risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) exposure at work to perform vital services to maintain our food supply, sustain needed transportation, provide health care, assure energy supply and others. Some states or jurisdictions in the United States recognized both the risk and the service of these workers by enacting COVID‐19 presumption laws to streamline selected essential workers' eligibility for WC benefits. Other states did not. Results of these contrasting public approaches permit an examination of the impact of presumptions in compensation by examining the frequency and outcomes of COVID‐19 claims in “COVID‐19 presumption” and “nonpresumption” states. Despite state‐level variations in economic response to the pandemic, industry mix, and presumption eligibility criteria, the use of COVID‐19 presumptions appears to have substantially increased claim filing rates and improved access to benefits. Lastly, the additional costs of COVID‐19 claims to employers and insurers were lower than initially predicted. In response to future airborne infectious disease outbreaks, workers' compensation presumption laws should be universally implemented to permit a broad range of high‐risk workers to work on the public's behalf without fear of losing wages and incurring medical expenses associated with a work‐related viral exposure.
Designing and evaluating a cost‐effective single nucleotide polymorphism liquid array for Chinese native chickens
Authors: Liu Yifan , Shan Yanju , Tu Yunjie , Zhang Ming , Ji Gaige , Ju Xiaojun , Shi Shiying , Fan Chenyu , Li Yunlei , Shu Jingting
Published: October 2023

Genotyping plays an important role in breeding and population studies. Currently available genotyping technologies, including solid‐phase chips and sequencing, often have several limitations in their application to local chickens in China, including high costs, insufficient diversity, and poor universality. In the present study, we developed a chicken 5 K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array suitable for breeding and genetic analysis using genotyping by targeted sequencing technology. The chip design was based on genomic data from 33 local breeds, and 5847 SNPs were selected for the final chip design. Among these SNPs, 3427 sites were associated with economic traits in broiler chickens. Our chip contained 25,000 high‐quality SNP markers captured from 5 K regions with highly efficient target site capture. Population analyses of the eight breeds showed high detection rates and minor allele frequencies for SNP markers on the array, enabling clear differentiation of different populations and families within populations. The genetic diversity trend obtained using the chip was consistent with the results obtained from microsatellite analyses. Additionally, the 5 K array was applied to a genome‐wide association study of broilers, resulting in the identification of several growth‐ and meat quality‐related loci. Therefore, the newly developed chip is efficient, cost‐effective, and well suited for application in local Chinese chickens, which will accelerate poultry breeding improvements and enhance conservation efforts.
Assessing model risk in financial and energy markets using dynamic conditional VaRs
Authors: Gianfreda Angelica , Scandolo Giacomo
Published: October 2023

It has been recognized that model risk has an important effect on any risk measurement procedures, particularly when dealing with complex markets and in the presence of a wide range of implemented models. We consider a normalized measure of model risk for the forecast of daily Value‐at‐Risk, combined with a model selection and an averaging procedure. This allows us to restrict the set of plausible models on a daily basis, making the initial choice of competing models less crucial and then yielding a more reliable assessment of model risk. Using AR‐GARCH‐type models with different distributions for the innovations, we assess the dynamics of model risk for different financial assets (a stock, an equity index, an exchange rate) and commodities (electricity, crude oil and natural gas) over 15 years.
Equatorially trapped Rossby waves in radiative stars
Authors: Albekioni Mariam , Zaqarashvili Teimuraz V. , Kukhianidze Vasil , Gurgenashvili Eka , Bourdin Philippe
Published: October 2023

Observations by recent space missions reported the detection of Rossby waves (r‐modes) in light curves of many stars (mostly A, B, and F spectral types) with outer radiative envelope. This article aims to study the theoretical dynamics of Rossby‐type waves in such stars. Hydrodynamic equations in a rotating frame were split into horizontal and vertical parts connected by a separation constant (or an equivalent depth). Vertical equations were solved analytically for a linear temperature profile and the equivalent depth was derived through free surface boundary condition. It is found that the vertical modes are concentrated in the near‐surface layer with a thickness of several tens of surface density scale height. Then with the equivalent width, horizontal structure equations were solved, and the corresponding dispersion relation for Rossby, Rossby‐gravity, and inertia‐gravity waves was obtained. The solutions were found to be confined around the equator, leading to the equatorially trapped waves. It was shown that the wave frequency depends on the vertical temperature gradient as well as on stellar rotation. Therefore, observations of wave frequency in light curves of stars with known parameters (radius, surface gravity, rotation period) could be used to estimate the temperature gradient in stellar outer layers. Consequently, the Rossby mode may be considered as an additional tool in asteroseismology apart from acoustic and gravity modes.
Aptamer‐modified tetrahedral DNA nanostructure‐immobilized liposome for specific gene delivery and potential cancer theragnostic
Authors: Lim Doo Young , Hwang Byeong Hee
Published: October 2023

Targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to cancer cells is crucial for effective cancer treatment without adverse effects. In this study, we developed a novel delivery carrier, Aptamer‐modified tetrahedral DNA nanostructure (TDN) immobilized Liposome (ApTL), for specific delivery to nucleolin‐overexpressing cancer cells. We demonstrated that targeted ApTL was highly effective in delivering plasmid and mRNA to nucleolin‐overexpressing cancer cells compared to non‐targeted ApTL with a non‐specific aptamer. ApTL, which is highly negative and nano‐sized, specifically delivered nucleic acids to MDA‐MB‐231 and HeLa cancer cells, primarily via lipid‐raft‐mediated endocytosis. Furthermore, the co‐delivery of mRNA and doxorubicin resulted in increased apoptosis and reduced cancer cell viability. Interestingly, co‐delivery of mRNA and Dox did not show a significant difference in EGFP expression at 24 h but dramatically increased EGFP expression at 48 h, making ApTL/mEGFP/Dox a promising candidate for detecting live cancer cells after targeted cancer drug treatment. Our results suggest that ApTL can be a promising tool for the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to nucleolin‐overexpressing cancer cells, providing a new strategy for cancer theragnostic.
An integrated laboratory work to improve students' practical skills and attitudes toward biochemistry in the biochemistry course
Authors: Anwar Yunita Arian Sani , Muti'ah Muti'ah , Dewi Yuli Kusuma
Published: October 2023

This research reports on implementing the integrated laboratory work to achieve effective learning in the biochemistry course. The integrated laboratory work includes three stages: pre‐laboratory, lab work, and post‐laboratory. In other words, the three stages include planning, implementing, and evaluating investigation activities in the laboratory. The research design used was a posttest control group design consisting of a control and an experimental group. There were 67 students as respondents, who were divided into control (N = 33) and experimental (N = 34) groups. Practical skills were measured using an assessment rubric with the involvement of the observer. The categories of practical skills measured were procedural skills, observation skills, interpretation skills, and reporting skills. Attitude toward biochemistry was measured using a questionnaire with five Likert scales. The indicators of attitudes toward biochemistry used were liking for a biochemistry theory lesson, liking for biochemistry laboratory work, evaluative beliefs about biochemistry, and behavioral tendencies to learn biochemistry. The influence of the implementation of the integrated laboratory work on the students' practical skills and attitudes toward biochemistry was analyzed using MANOVA. The research result shows that implementing the integrated laboratory work improves students' average scores in practical skills and attitudes toward biochemistry. All the practical skills and attitudes categories in the experimental group have a higher score than those in the control group. The reason is that the work of the integrated laboratory can prepare students to conduct better investigations in biochemistry laboratory work.
Interrogating Aptamer Chemical Space Through Modified Nucleotide Substitution Facilitated by Enzymatic DNA Synthesis
Authors: Niogret Germain , Bouvier‐Müller Alix , Figazzolo Chiara , Joyce Jack M. , Bonhomme Frédéric , England Patrick , Mayboroda Olena , Pellarin Riccardo , Gasser Gilles , Tucker James H. R. , Tanner Julian A. , Savage G. Paul , Hollenstein Marcel
Published: October 2023

Chemical modification of aptamers is an important step to improve their performance and stability in biological media. This can be performed either during their identification (mod‐SELEX) or after the in vitro selection process (post‐SELEX). In order to reduce the complexity and workload of the post‐SELEX modification of aptamers, we have evaluated the possibility of improving a previously reported, chemically modified aptamer by combining enzymatic synthesis and nucleotides bearing bioisosteres of the parent cubane side‐chains or substituted cubane moieties. This method lowers the synthetic burden often associated with post‐SELEX approaches and allowed to identify one additional sequence that maintains binding to the PvLDH target protein, albeit with reduced specificity. In addition, while bioisosteres often improve the potency of small molecule drugs, this does not extend to chemically modified aptamers. Overall, this versatile method can be applied for the post‐SELEX modification of other aptamers and functional nucleic acids.
Cd/Cd(OH)2 Nanosheets Enhancing the Electrocatalytic Activity of CO2 Reduction to CO
Authors: Jia Xiaoyan , Qi Kongsheng , Yang Jie , Fan Zixi , Hua Zhixin , Wan Xiaoqi , Zhao Yuhua , Mao Yidan , Yang Dexin
Published: October 2023

Electric‐driven conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to carbon monoxide (CO) under mild reaction conditions offers a promising approach to mitigate the greenhouse effect and the energy crisis. Surface engineering is believed to be one of the prospective methods for enhancing the electrocatalytic activity of CO2 reduction. Herein, hydroxyl (OH) groups were successfully introduced to cadmium nanosheets to form cadmium and cadmium hydroxide nanocomposites (i. e. Cd/Cd(OH)2 nanosheets) via a facile two‐step method. The as‐prepared Cd/Cd(OH)2/CP (CP indicates carbon paper) electrode displays excellent electrocatalytic activity for CO2 reduction to produce CO. The Faradaic efficiency of CO reaches 98.3 % and the current density achieves 23.8 mA cm−2 at −2.0 V vs. Ag/Ag+ in a CO2‐saturated 30 wt% 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazole hexafluorophosphate ([Bmim]PF6)‐65 wt% acetonitrile (CH3CN)‐5 wt% water (H2O) electrolyte. And the CO partial current density can reach up to 71.6 mA cm−2 with the CO Faradaic efficiency of more than 85 % at −2.3 V vs. Ag/Ag+, which stands out against Cd/CP, Cd(OH)2/CP, and Cd/CdO/CP electrodes. The excellent electrocatalytic performance of the Cd/Cd(OH)2/CP electrode can be attributed to its unique structural properties, suitable OH groups, perfect interaction with electrolyte, abundant active sites and fast electron transfer rate.
Niobium‐Based Oxide for Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sheng Yun , Wang Yishan , Yin Shujuan , Zhao Lianyu , Zhang Xueqian , Liu Dongdong , Wen Guangwu
Published: October 2023

Recently, it has become imperative to develop high energy density as well as high safety lithium‐ion batteries (LIBS) to meet the growing energy demand. Among the anode materials used in LIBs, the currently used commercial graphite has low capacity and is a safety hazard due to the formation of lithium dendrites during the reaction. Among the transition metal oxide (TMO) anode materials, TMO based on the intercalation reaction mechanism has a more stable structure and is less prone to volume expansion than TMO based on the conversion reaction mechanism, especially the niobium‐based oxide in it has attracted much attention. Niobium‐based oxides have a high operating potential to inhibit the formation of lithium dendrites and lithium deposits to ensure safety, and have stable and fast lithium ion transport channels with excellent multiplicative performance. This review summarizes the recent developments of niobium‐based oxides as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, discusses the special structure and electrochemical reaction mechanism of the materials, the synthesis methods and morphology of nanostructures, deficiencies and improvement strategies, and looks into the future developments and challenges of niobium‐based oxide anode materials.
Palladium‐Catalyzed anti‐Markovnikov Halosulfonamidation of Unactivated Alkene†
Authors: Wang Bowen , Li Jianxiao , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: October 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Palladium‐catalyzed regioselective amination of unactivated alkene remains a challenge and is of great interest. Herein, a three‐component coupling of unactivated alkene, sulfonamide, and N‐halo compounds accessing vicinal haloamine has been conceived. This aminohalogenation represents a modular and regioselective strategy. The electrophilic halogenating agent enables regioselective anti‐Markovnikov aminopalladation and facilitates subsequent halogenation events. And this protocol is characterized by gram‐scale syntheses and late‐stage functionalizations. Of note, the recovered byproduct phthalimide allows for reusing by conversion to the starting material.
Structural Basis of Saccharin Derivative Inhibition of Carbonic Anhydrase IX
Authors: Leitans Janis , Kazaks Andris , Bogans Janis , Supuran Claudiu T. , Akopjana Inara , Ivanova Jekaterina , Zalubovskis Raivis , Tars Kaspars
Published: October 2023

This study explores the binding mechanisms of saccharin derivatives with human carbonic anhydrase IX (hCA IX), an antitumor drug target, with the aim of facilitating the design of potent and selective inhibitors. Through the use of crystallographic analysis, we investigate the structures of hCA IX‐saccharin derivative complexes, unveiling their unique binding modes that exhibit both similarities to sulfonamides and distinct orientations of the ligand tail. Our comprehensive structural insights provide information regarding the crucial interactions between the ligands and the protein, shedding light on interactions that dictate inhibitor binding and selectivity. Through a comparative analysis of the binding modes observed in hCA II and hCA IX, isoform‐specific interactions are identified, offering promising strategies for the development of isoform‐selective inhibitors that specifically target tumor‐associated hCA IX. The findings of this study significantly deepen our understanding of the binding mechanisms of hCA inhibitors, laying a solid foundation for the rational design of more effective inhibitors.
Comparative localization of colorectal sensory afferent central projections in the mouse spinal cord dorsal horn and caudal medulla dorsal vagal complex
Authors: Wang QingQing , Caraballo Sonia Garcia , Rychkov Grigori , McGovern Alice E. , Mazzone Stuart B. , Brierley Stuart M. , Harrington Andrea M.
Published: October 2023

The distal colon and rectum (colorectum) are innervated by spinal and vagal afferent pathways. The central circuits into which vagal and spinal afferents relay colorectal nociceptive information remain to be comparatively assessed. To address this, regional colorectal retrograde tracing and colorectal distension (CRD)‐evoked neuronal activation were used to compare the circuits within the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) and dorsal horn (thoracolumbar [TL] and lumbosacral [LS] spinal levels) into which vagal and spinal colorectal afferents project. Vagal afferent projections were observed in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), area postrema (AP), and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV), labeled from the rostral colorectum. In the NTS, projections were opposed to catecholamine and pontine parabrachial nuclei (PbN)‐projecting neurons. Spinal afferent projections were labeled from rostral through to caudal aspects of the colorectum. In the dorsal horn, the number of neurons activated by CRD was linked to pressure intensity, unlike in the DVC. In the NTS, 13% ± 0.6% of CRD‐activated neurons projected to the PbN. In the dorsal horn, at the TL spinal level, afferent input was associated with PbN‐projecting neurons in lamina I (LI), with 63% ± 3.15% of CRD‐activated neurons in LI projecting to the PbN. On the other hand, at the LS spinal level, only 18% ± 0.6% of CRD‐activated neurons in LI projected to the PbN. The collective data identify differences in the central neuroanatomy that support the disparate roles of vagal and spinal afferent signaling in the facilitation and modulation of colorectal nociceptive responses.
Melatonin: A biomolecule for mitigating postharvest chilling injury in fruits and vegetables
Authors: Sati Hansika , Kataria Priyanka , Chinchkar Ajay V. , Pareek Sunil
Published: October 2023

The best strategy to extend the shelf life of fresh horticultural produce is to keep it at a low temperature. However, storing fruits and vegetables at a temperature lower than their recommended storage temperature and above the freezing point for a prolonged time leads to the development of chilling injury (CI). Melatonin (MT) being a versatile biological signal has been reported to possess antioxidant properties that aid in mediating stress response and extending the postharvest storage life of horticultural crops. Among CI‐induced mechanisms, MT substantially reduces oxidative stress by elevating the reactive oxygen species scavenging and triggering the phenol accumulation in association with 2, 2‐diphenyl‐1 picryl hydrazyl scavenging activity. Besides, MT increases intracellular energy by maintaining a proper ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acid and improving cellular fluidity. Additionally, MT regulates arginine metabolism by maintaining the γ‐aminobutyric acid synthesis. Furthermore, MT encodes the mitogen‐activated protein kinases, and calcium‐dependent protein kinases cascade and acclimate to cold stress by activating C‐repeat binding factors and helps in maintaining postharvest quality. This review reports the recent progress of MT‐induced physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms for enhancing chilling tolerance, which can elevate the marketability and earnings from postharvest horticultural crops.
An empirical study on the cushioning effect of corporate social responsibility on the negative impact of COVID‐19 on firm performance
Authors: Buertey Samuel , Chu Tuan Thanh , Thompson Ephraim Kwashie
Published: October 2023

Embedded in the legitimacy and stakeholder theories in the context of corporate social responsibility (CSR), this study investigates the impact of COVID‐19 on firm performance, and the cushioning effect of CSR on the relationship between COVID‐19 pandemic and firm performance. The sample covers non‐financial firms listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), South Africa. Data covering the period 2018–2021 were analyzed using multivariate linear fixed‐effect regression techniques. COVID‐19 has had a negative impact on firm performance, proxied by Tobin's Q and Sales Turnover, while CSR has a positive impact on firm performance. We also found that the negative impact of COVID‐19 on firm performance differs between high and low CSR performing firms. Additionally, based on an industry‐level analysis, we provide insight into the most affected and most resilient sectors. The findings should motivate more firms to take CSR issues more seriously and adopt such practices as part of their long‐term strategic tools to gain competitive advantage and enhance profitability in the long run.
Effects of Fe3+ on Hydrothermal Humification of Agricultural Biomass
Authors: Peng Xiong‐Xin , Gai Shuang , Liu Zhuqing , Cheng Kui , Yang Fan
Published: October 2023

Hydrothermal humification technology for the preparation of artificial humic matters provides a new strategy, greatly promoting the natural maturation process. Iron, as a common metal, is widely used in the conversion of waste biomass; however, the influence of Fe3+ on hydrothermal humification remains unknown. In this study, FeCl3 is used to catalyze the hydrothermal humification of corn straw, and the influence of Fe3+ on the hydrothermal humification is explored by a series of characterization techniques. Results show that Fe3+ as the catalyst can promote the decomposition of corn straw, shorten the reaction time from 24 h to 6 h, and increase the yield from 6.77 % to 14.08 %. However, artificial humic acid (A‐HA) obtained from Fe3+‐catalysis hydrothermal humification contains more unstable carbon and low amount of aromatics, resulting in a significantly decreased stability of the artificial humic acid. These results provide theoretical guidance for regulating the structure and properties of artificial humic acid to meet various maintenance needs.
Cut‐set matrix methods for frequency response analysis curves of lumped parameter equivalent circuit model of three‐winding power transformer
Authors: Wang Song , Wang Wei , Xie Fei , Qiu Shengxuan , Yang Fengye
Published: October 2023

To accurately and efficiently calculate the frequency response of the lumped parameter equivalent circuit model (LPECM) of a transformer winding is the basis for studying the simulation method of the frequency response analysis (FRA). In this paper, two different cut‐set matrix (CSM) methods, including fundamental cut‐set (FCS) and independent cut‐set (ICS) matrix methods, are proposed to calculate the FRA curves of the LPECM of a three‐winding power transformer. First, based on graph theory and electrical circuit laws, the basic CSM equation is deduced. Second, four different FCS matrix selection methods of the LPECM are introduced and the best FCS matrix is determined by deeply analyzing their characteristics. Then, an ICS matrix method is proposed to obtain the ICS of the LPECM. Furthermore, FCS and ICS are taken into the CSM equation to calculate the FRA results of the LPECM, respectively. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed methods is validated by Multisim software and the performance of these two methods is compared with node voltage matrix (NVM) method by analyzing the calculation time. The results show that FCS and ICS matrix methods both can be used to accurately obtain the FRA results of the LPECM of the three‐winding power transformer, but ICS is more simple than FCS matrix method due to avoiding the procedure for the selection of the tree. In addition, since ICS matrix method has the shortest running time among these methods, it can be used to improve the calculation efficiency of the FRA curves of the LPECM of a three‐winding power transformer.
Selection of power sharing factor for hybrid battery/ultracapacitor energy storage‐based EV through load emulation technique
Authors: Dhote V. P. , Lokhande M. M. , Balapanuru Obulapathi
Published: October 2023

The hybrid battery/ultracapacitor (UC) energy storage system for electric vehicles (EVs) proved more reliable and cost‐effective. Even with the best possible sizing of these energy storage devices, unforeseen EV loading cycles are causing a single‐source transition. Mainly, the UC exhaustion in acceleration or transient loading shifts the loading to the battery, causing overdischarge and reducing the life span. This paper presents a deterministic current control algorithm to restrict the maximum allowable battery discharge current. The current discharge control in the battery/UC is implemented using symmetrical carrier‐based digital average current mode (DACM). The proposed energy management algorithm (EMA) with variable battery current sharing factor
typically controls the current flow between the battery and the UC so that the battery current is always within safe limits. The DC‐DC converter with proposed novel EMA allows the system to regulate the voltage and current flow between the two power sources. By sharing the currents in this way and limiting the battery current to a safe value, the system helps to prolong the battery's life and ensures that the vehicle operates safely and reliably over the long term. The EV load profile emulator provides the current sharing under dynamic operating conditions. The hardware results are supported to validate the single‐source transition under hybrid energy sources.
Fine‐needle aspiration of a pancreas with squamoid cyst of pancreatic duct and pancreatic duct stones: A case report of a rare pancreatic lesion and an unusual concurrent finding of stone‐related crystals
Authors: Pang Yin Huei , Ooi Li Yin
Published: October 2023

Squamoid cyst of pancreatic duct is a rare benign pancreatic lesion that is rarely encountered in fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and surgical resection specimens. Pancreatic stones can be seen in chronic pancreatitis, but stone‐related crystals have previously not been described in pancreatic cytology. Presented here is a case report of a squamoid cyst of pancreatic duct with concurrent pancreatic duct stones. We describe the cytomorphology of this benign cyst, as well as the remarkable finding of polymorphous crystals on cyst fluid aspirate. We also describe the histology of the surgically resected cystic lesion. With the increase in detection of incidental pancreatic cysts on imaging, this case highlights the importance of awareness and recognition of benign non‐neoplastic epithelial cysts on FNA sampling to avoid overtreatment. The presence of crystals on pancreatic FNA is an unusual finding, likely representing calcium carbonate crystals related to the formation of pancreatic duct stones.
Claudin‐4 immunocytochemistry is specific and sensitive for the diagnosis of malignant carcinomatous effusions: Results from a pilot study
Authors: Hruaii Vanlal , Thirunavukkarasu Balamurugan , Prabha Vindhya , Mathur Sandeep , Iyer Venkateswaran K. , Nambirajan Aruna , Jain Deepali
Published: October 2023

Background

Claudin‐4, a tight junction associated protein expressed in epithelial cells, is purported as a highly specific and sensitive marker for epithelial malignancies. Our aim was to assess the sensitivity, specificity and real‐time utility of claudin‐4 immunocytochemistry (ICC) in the diagnostic work‐up of suspected malignant effusions.

Methods

Claudin‐4 (3E2C1 clone) ICC was performed prospectively in effusion cell blocks where other ICC markers were being performed as part of reporting over 3 months. Based on claudin‐4 staining in unequivocal malignant and reactive effusions, the sensitivity and specificity was calculated. In cases signed out as inconclusive encompassing atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) and suspicious for malignancy (SFM) and negative for malignancy, change in diagnostic category based on addition of claudin‐4 ICC was assessed.

Results

Study included 107 effusions. Claudin‐4 stained 100% of metastatic adenocarcinomas including those with primaries in lung, breast, ovary, female genital tract, gastrointestinal tract and pancreatic‐biliary tract, and was negative in all reactive mesothelial and mesothelioma effusions with sensitivity of 100% (48/48) and specificity of 95% (20/21) for adenocarcinoma. Claudin‐4 upgraded the diagnostic category to positive in 70% (16/23) of SFM, 20% (1/5) of AUS, and in 50% (5/10) of negative effusions. Among cases with confirmed serosal involvement status on follow‐up, claudin‐4 showed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values of 85% (11/13), 100% (3/3), 100% (10/10) and 75% (3/4), respectively, for metastatic adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion

Claudin‐4 as a single marker is sensitive and specific for adenocarcinoma and is a valuable addition to the ICC armamentarium.
Identifying genetic variation associated with environmental gradients and drought‐tolerance phenotypes in ponderosa pine
Authors: Shu Mengjun , Moran Emily V.
Published: October 2023

As climate changes, understanding the genetic basis of local adaptation in plants becomes an ever more pressing issue. Combining genotype‐environment association (GEA) with genotype–phenotype association (GPA) analysis has an exciting potential to uncover the genetic basis of environmental responses. We use these approaches to identify genetic variants linked to local adaptation to drought inPinus ponderosa. Over 4 million Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified using 223 individuals from across the Sierra Nevada of California. 927,740 (22.3%) SNPs were retained after filtering for proximity to genes and used in our association analyses. We found 1374 associated with five major climate variables, with the largest number (1151) associated with April 1st snowpack. We also conducted a greenhouse study with various drought‐tolerance traits measured in first‐year seedlings of a subset of the genotyped trees grown in the greenhouse. 796 SNPs were associated with control‐condition trait values, while 1149 were associated with responsiveness of these traits to drought. While no individual SNPs were associated with both the environmental variables and the measured traits, several annotated genes were associated with both, particularly those involved in cell wall formation, biotic and abiotic stress responses, and ubiquitination. However, the functions of many of the associated genes have not yet been determined due to the lack of gene annotation information for conifers. Future studies are needed to assess the developmental roles and ecological significance of these unknown genes.