bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking Voltage Potentials of Mixed‐Halide Perovskite Solar Cells via Phase Segregation Suppression
Authors: Yang Weichuang , Long Hanlin , Sha Xuan , Sun Jingsong , Zhao Yunxing , Guo Chenyu , Peng Xianchun , Shou Chunhui , Yang Xi , Sheng Jiang , Yang Zhenhai , Yan Baojie , Ye Jichun
Published: December 2021

Wide bandgap (Eg) mixed‐halide perovskite has attracted much attention for applications in photovoltaic devices. However, devices featuring this type of perovskite are often subject to a large voltage deficit due to the occurrence of phase segregation, which limits the relevant devices’ access to high performances. Here, the correlation of the phase segregation and voltage losses for wide‐Eg mixed‐halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is clarified by experiments and simulations. Taking 1.67 eV Eg mixed‐halide perovskite as an example, it is confirmed experimentally that the control devices produce a poor physical morphology, a locally widened Eg, and an inferior electrical response. By suppressing the phase segregation, the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) can be boosted from 1.15 to 1.20 V, which is a high value for the 1.67 eV Eg mixed‐halide PSCs. An electrical simulation of phase segregation reveals that the performance degeneration can be attributed to the bulk recombination due to the energy level mismatch of the varied Egs. Moreover, a theoretical perspective is produced to expatiate on the strategies for the high Voc of wide‐Eg PSCs. This study brings deep guidance to unlock the potential for high‐performance mix‐halide PSCs.
Redistributed Current Density in Lateral Organic Light‐Emitting Transistors Enabling Uniform Area Emission with Good Stability and Arbitrary Tunability
Authors: Gao Haikuo , Miao Zhagen , Qin Zhengsheng , Yang Jiaxin , Wang Tianyu , Gao Can , Dong Huanli , Hu Wenping
Published: December 2021

Organic light‐emitting transistors (OLETs), integrating the functions of an organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) and organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) in a single device, are promising for the next‐generation display technology. However, the great challenge of achieving uniform area emission in OLETs with good stability and arbitrary tunability hinders their development in this field. Herein, an effective solution to obtain well‐defined area emission in lateral OLETs by incorporating a charge‐transport buffer (CTB) layer between the conducting channel and emitting layer is proposed. Comprehensive theoretical simulation and experimental results demonstrate redistributed potential beneath the drain electrode under the shielding effect of the CBT layer, resulting in a highly uniform current density. In this case, uniform recombination of balanced holes and electrons can be guaranteed, which is essential for the formation of area emission in the following OLETs. RGB OLETs with uniform area emission are constructed, which show good gate tunable ability (ON/OFF ratio 106), high loop stability (over 200 cycles) and high aperture ratio (over 80%) due to the arbitrary tunability of the device geometry. This work provides a new avenue for constructing area‐emission lateral OLETs, which have great potential for display technology because of their good compatibility with conventional fabrication techniques.
Unraveling the Highly Complex Nature of Antimony on Pt(111)
Authors: Guo Haojie , Jiménez‐Sánchez Mariano D. , Martínez‐Galera Antonio J. , Gómez‐Rodríguez José M.
Published: December 2021

Understanding the growth behavior of group‐V elements on metal surfaces provides valuable information that can shed light on the feasibility of tailoring atomically thin monoelemental 2D polymorphs composed of pnictogens on these metallic substrates. Here, by combining scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), low energy electron diffraction and Auger electron spectroscopy measurements under ultra‐high vacuum conditions, a wide variety of Sb reconstructions on single‐crystal Pt(111) are identified and characterized. At Sb coverage of ≈0.2 ML, STM data are compatible with a scenario in which Sb atoms are randomly embedded into the topmost layer of Pt, in a substitutional configuration and without establishing a periodic structure. This disorder is robust against thermal annealing and quenching. Increasing the surface coverage and whether or not the sample is annealed, different well‐ordered Sb phases are formed. The Sb structures synthesized at room temperature without any heating process are best interpreted as surface alloys that involve only the first atomic layer. In contrast, experimental evidence points towards the development of multilayer alloy phases for the annealed samples.
Mitigating implicit bias in student evaluations: A randomized intervention
Authors: Genetin Brandon , Chen Joyce , Kogan Vladimir , Kalish Alan
Published: December 2021

We conduct a randomized control trial to assess the efficacy of utilizing modified introductory language in student evaluations of instruction to mitigate implicit bias. Students are randomly assigned within courses to three treatment arms and shown so‐called “cheap talk” scripts referencing implicit bias, the high stakes associated with student evaluations, and the combination of the two. We analyze both the impact assignment of the treatment has on completion rates as well as the effect on average instructor rating. Our analysis indicates assignment has statistically significant effects on the likelihood of response for those assigned the combined treatment, though the effects are heterogeneous with respect to both instructor and student race/ethnicity and gender. We further find the high‐stakes treatment leads to higher average scores for racial/ethnic minority instructors with no significant effects from the implicit bias and combined scripts.
Metal‐Catalyzed Divergent Synthetic Methods for Pyrrolocoumarins and Furocoumarins
Authors: Rao Maddali L. N. , Nand Sachchida , Murty Venneti N.
Published: December 2021

We describe a divergent synthesis of pyrrolocoumarins and furocoumarins starting from the 4‐(arylethynyl)‐3‐bromocoumarins under metal‐catalyzed conditions. The one‐pot synthesis of pyrrolocoumarins is achieved using 4‐(arylethynyl)‐3‐bromocoumarins under copper‐catalyzed conditions. The synthesis of furocoumarins involved a two‐step protocol from 4‐(arylethynyl)‐3‐bromocoumarins through the formation of 3‐bromo‐4‐(2‐oxo‐2‐arylethyl)coumarins under iron‐catalyzed conditions followed by their copper‐catalyzed cyclizations.
Hybrid Self‐Assembling Peptide/Gelatin Methacrylate (GelMA) Bioink Blend for Improved Bioprintability and Primary Myoblast Response
Authors: Boyd-Moss Mitchell , Firipis Kate , Quigley Anita , Rifai Aaqil , Cichocki Artur , Whitty Sarah , Ngan Catherine , Dekiwadia Chaitali , Long Benjamin , Nisbet David R. , Kapsa Robert , Williams Richard J.
Published: December 2021

Organ fabrication as the solution to renewable donor demands requires the ability to spatially deposit viable cells into biologically relevant constructs; necessitating reliable and effective cell deposition through bioprinting and the subsequent ability to mature. However, effective bioink development demands advances in both printability and control of cellular response. Effective bioinks are designed to retain shape fidelity, influence cellular behavior, having bioactive morphologies stiffness and highly hydrated environment. Hybrid hydrogels are promising candidates as they reduce the need to re‐engineer materials for tissue‐specific properties, with each component offering beneficial properties. Herein, a multicomponent bioink is developed whereby gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and fluorenylmethoxycarbonyprotected self‐assembling peptides (Fmoc‐SAPs) undergo coassembly to yield a tuneable bioink. This study shows that the reported fibronectin‐inspired fmoc‐SAPs present cell attachment epitopes RGD and PHSRN in the form of bioactive nanofibers; and that the GelMA enables superior printability, stability in media, and controlled mechanical properties. Importantly, when in the hybrid format, no disruption to either the methacrylate crosslinking of GelMA, or self‐assembled peptide fibril formation is observed. Finally, studies with primary myoblasts show over 98% viability at 72 h and differentiation into fused myotubes at one and two weeks demonstrate the utility of the material as a functional bioink for muscle engineering.
Curable Layered Double Hydroxide Nanoparticles‐Based Perfusion Contrast Agents for X‐Ray Computed Tomography Imaging of Vascular Structures
Authors: Tokudome Yasuaki , Poologasundarampillai Gowsihan , Tachibana Koki , Murata Hidenobu , Naylor Amy J. , Yoneyama Akio , Nakahira Atsushi
Published: December 2021

Imaging complex vascular structures by X‐ray microcomputed tomography (μ‐CT) is becoming vital for research purposes in pathology of vascular diseases. Acrylic‐based polymerizable resins are widely adopted for the contrast agent to prepare pathological specimens for imaging of vascular structures. For imaging of vascular structures at higher resolution, it is promising to develop inorganic‐type contrast agents with higher X‐ray attenuation coefficient as well as low viscosity, homogeneity, minimum shrinkage, curable (gellable) for replication, and low cost. Herein, a novel inorganic sol–gel system based on concentrated colloidal dispersion of NiAl layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoparticles is described, allowing imaging of vascular structures at high resolution. NiAl LDH acts as nanofiller and alkaline catalyst to form a silica/LDH monolithic material with homogeneity from the nanoscale. Moreover, NiAl LDH nanoparticles contribute to the strong enhancement of the X‐ray attenuation. As a proof‐of‐concept, X‐ray μ‐CT imaging of the developed contrast agent in glass capillaries and of blood vessels of a human placenta and murine liver is demonstrated.
Direct and Catalytic C‐Glycosylation of Arenes: Expeditious Synthesis of the Remdesivir Nucleoside**
Authors: Obradors Carla , Mitschke Benjamin , Aukland Miles H. , Leutzsch Markus , Grossmann Oleg , Brunen Sebastian , Schwengers Sebastian A. , List Benjamin
Published: December 2021

Since early 2020, scientists have strived to find an effective solution to fight SARS‐CoV‐2, in particular by developing reliable vaccines that inhibit the spread of the disease and repurposing drugs for combatting its effects on the human body. The antiviral prodrug Remdesivir is still the most widely used therapeutic during the early stages of the infection. However, the current synthetic routes rely on the use of protecting groups, air‐sensitive reagents, and cryogenic conditions, thus impeding a cost‐efficient supply to patients. We have, therefore, focused on the development of a straightforward, direct addition of (hetero)arenes to unprotected sugars. Here we report a silylium‐catalyzed and completely stereoselective C‐glycosylation that initially yields the open‐chain polyols, which can be selectively cyclized to provide either the kinetic α‐furanose or the thermodynamically favored β‐anomer. The method significantly expedites the synthesis of Remdesivir precursor GS‐441524 after a subsequent Mn‐catalyzed C−H oxidation and deoxycyanation.
Celgard/PIM‐1 proton conducting composite membrane with reduced vanadium permeability
Authors: Sizov Victor E. , Zefirov Vadim V. , Volkova Yulia A. , Gusak Danil I. , Kharitonova Elena P. , Ponomarev Igor I. , Gallyamov Marat O.
Published: December 2021

Renewable energy systems need efficient and cheap storage devices and vanadium redox flow batteries (VRB) may become one of them. However, better performance of VRB membranes yet should be achieved. Novel composite Celgard‐based films coated with PIM‐1 for aqueous electrolyte VRB applications are presented. Two types of the composites with different PIM‐1 loadings are obtained. Their properties are studied and compared with the original Celgard films. The deposited PIM‐1 forms a smooth layer on the outer Celgard surface and penetrates inside the porous matrix, thus significantly reducing the pores diameter and affecting the transport properties of the composite film. The nanoporous structure of PIM‐1 permits size‐screening of H3O+/hydrated vanadium ions when used in aqueous vanadium redox flow batteries applications, which allows to tailor the membrane permeability for the two types of ions and, therefore, to increase its selectivity from 4.3 × 106 to 1.3 × 107 mS min cm−3, while maintaining high proton conductivity.
Yellow‐b, ‐c, ‐e and ‐h are required for normal body coloration in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata
Authors: Wang Pei , Ze Long‐Ji , Jin Lin , Li Guo‐Qing
Published: December 2021

The involvement of yellow genes y‐b, y‐c, y‐e, and y‐h in cuticle tanning has poorly been clarified. In the present paper, six putative yellow (y‐y, y‐b, y‐c, y‐e y‐f, and y‐h) genes were identified in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Hvy‐b, Hvy‐c, Hvy‐e, and Hvy‐h were abundantly transcribed at early larval and late pupal stages, especially in the epidermis. Accordingly, RNA interference (RNAi) experiments were performed by an injection of dsy‐b, dsy‐c, dsy‐e, or dsy‐h into the second instar larvae and 1‐day‐old pupae. The head capsule, scoli and strumae, and legs in the fourth‐instar larvae became blacker; the blackish spots in the pupae were darkened and widened after RNAi of Hvy‐b, compared with those of dsegfp‐treated controls. Depletion of Hvy‐b at the 1‐day‐old pupal stage expanded two pair of black markings on the sternum of the metathorax, and darkened the black patched on the sterna of the abdomen segments I–VI in the resultant adults. Depletion of Hvy‐e caused darker pigmented adult body and elytral cuticles than those of dsegfp‐introduced controls. However, there was no obvious difference in pigmentation of the black markings. Hvy‐h‐deficient larvae displayed dark yellow body color, whereas the body color of the dsegfp‐injected control was pale yellow. There was no obvious difference in coloration of larval specific‐black markings or pupal cuticle between dsHvy‐h‐ and dsegfp‐treated animals. Moreover, silence of Hvy‐c at the second instar larval stage lightened black markings in the resulting larvae and pupae, but had no influence on pale yellow body color. Our results demonstrated their different roles of the four yellow genes during body pigmentation: HvY‐b and HvY‐c, respectively, inhibit and facilitate the coloration within dark markings, whereas HvY‐e and HvY‐h, respectively, repress the pigmentation in adult and larval body cuticles outside the black patches in H. vigintioctopunctata.
Nanosheets Derived through Dissolution‐Recrystallization of TiB2 as Efficient Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Suriyakumar Shruti , Varma Akash , Surendran Vishnu , Jasuja Kabeer , Shaijumon M. M.
Published: December 2021

Metal borides when subjected to dissolution and recrystallization exhibit a tendency to grow preferentially in lateral dimensions and form nanosheets. Such derived nanosheets exhibit unusual properties that can potentially be used in energy conversion and storage applications. Here we report boride‐based nanosheets derived from titanium diboride through a scalable one‐pot chemical approach as a sodium‐ion battery anode material. The half‐cell with TiB2‐derived nanosheets (TiB2‐NS) as anode delivers an initial discharge capacity of 252 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, and appreciable cycling stability is achieved at 1 A g−1 current density. Further, a sodium‐ion full cell assembled with TiB2‐NS as anode and sodium vanadium phosphate/carbon as cathode is demonstrated. The full cell delivers an energy density of 111 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 500 W kg−1. Being the first report of its kind, our study exemplifies the rich potential that the TiB2‐NS deliver as an anode material upon nanoscaling and substantiates the theoretical prediction on using transition metal boride‐based anode material for sodium‐ion battery.
Selective production of retinol by engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae through the expression of retinol dehydrogenase
Authors: Lee Ye‐Gi , Kim Chanwoo , Sun Liang , Lee Tae‐Hee , Jin Yong‐Su
Published: December 2021

Retinol is a fat‐soluble vitamin A that is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Currently, retinol is commercially produced by chemical synthesis. Microbial production of retinol has been alternatively explored but restricted to a mixture of retinoids including retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid. Thus, we introduced heterologous retinol dehydrogenase into retinoids mixture‐producing Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the selective production of retinol using xylose. Expression of human RDH10 and Escherichia coli ybbO led to increase in retinol production, but retinal remained as a major product. In contrast, S. cerevisiae harboring human RDH12 produced retinol selectively with negligible production of retinal. The resulting strain (SR8A‐RDH12) produced retinol only. However, more glycerol was accumulated due to intracellular redox imbalance. Therefore, Lactococcus lactis noxE coding for H2O‐forming NADH oxidase was additionally introduced to resolve the redox imbalance. The resulting strain produced 52% less glycerol and more retinol with a 30% higher yield than a parental strain. As the produced retinol was not stable, we examined culture and storage conditions including temperature, light, and antioxidants for the optimal production of retinol. In conclusion, we achieved selective production of retinol efficiently from xylose by introducing human RDH12 and NADH oxidase into S. cerevisiae.
Risk prediction in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Tomey Matthew I. , Dangas George D.
Published: December 2021

Key Points

A new ACS‐MCS risk score incorporating age, lactate, acute kidney injury, and SCAI Shock class predicts 30‐day mortality in patients receiving short‐term mechanical circulatory support for cardiogenic shock complicating acute coronary syndromes.

This study illustrates that shock severity, as defined by SCAI Shock class, is one of multiple key factors influencing mortality in cardiogenic shock.

Age and end‐organ injury are important mediators of cardiogenic shock outcomes.
Predicting mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention: The need for improved risk models
Authors: Kumar Anirudh , Jneid Hani
Published: December 2021

Key Points

In the contemporary era of personalized medicine, accurate risk assessment following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is important for patient selection and to guide the shared decision‐making process by patients and interventional cardiologists.

The updated clinical logistic SYNTAX score incorporates the following five additional independent predictors into the risk model: history of lung disease, prior stroke, current smoking, hemoglobin level, and white blood cell count.

Compared with the old model, the updated clinical logistic SYNTAX score has improved discriminative ability for predicting 2‐year mortality after PCI.
Heteroallene Capture and Exchange at Functionalised Heptaphosphane Clusters
Authors: van IJzendoorn Bono , Vitorica‐Yrezabal Inigo J. , Whitehead George F. S. , Mehta Meera
Published: December 2021

Despite being known for decades the chemical reactivity of homoatomic seven‐atom phosphorus clusters towards small molecules remains largely unexplored. Here, we report that neutral tris(silyl) functionalised heptaphosphane (P7(SiR3)3) cages are capable of heteroallene capture between the P−Si bonds of the cluster. A range of isocyanates and an isothiocyanate were investigated. In the case of isocyanates, silyl bonding at oxygen or nitrogen is regioselectively directed by the functional group on the isocyanate and substituents on the silyl moiety. Above all, we find that captured isothiocyanate molecules can be exchanged for isocyanate molecules, indicative of small molecule catch and release. Small molecule catch and release at these Zintl‐derived clusters reveals their potential application as chemical storage materials or as reusable probes.
An H2O2 Molecule Stabilized inside Open‐Cage C60 Derivatives by a Hydroxy Stopper
Authors: Huang Guanglin , Hasegawa Shota , Hashikawa Yoshifumi , Ide Yuki , Hirose Takashi , Murata Yasujiro
Published: December 2021

An H2O2 molecule was isolated inside hydroxylated open‐cage fullerene derivatives by mixing an H2O2 solution with a precursor molecule followed by reduction of one of carbonyl groups on its orifice. Depending on the reduction site, two structural isomers for H2O2@open‐fullerenes were obtained. A high encapsulation ratio of 81 % was attained at low temperature. The structures of the peroxosolvate complexes thus obtained were studied by 1H NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray analysis, and DFT calculations, showing strong hydrogen bonding between the encapsulated H2O2 and the hydroxy group located at the center of the orifice. This OH group was found to act as a kinetic stopper, and the formation of the hydrogen bonding caused thermodynamic stabilization of the H2O2 molecule, both of which prevent its escape from the cage. One of the peroxosolvates was isolated by HPLC, affording H2O2@open‐fullerene with 100 % encapsulation ratio, likely due to the intramolecular hydrogen‐bonding interaction.
Label‐Free Electrochemiluminescence Imaging of Single‐Cell Adhesions by Using Bipolar Nanoelectrode Array
Authors: Qin Xiang , Jin Hua‐Jiang , Li Xiuxiu , Li Jian , Pan Jian‐Bin , Wang Kang , Liu Songqin , Xu Jing‐Juan , Xia Xing‐Hua
Published: December 2021

A label‐free and fast approach for positive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) imaging of single cells by bipolar nanoelectrode array is proposed. The reduction of oxygen at a platinized gold nanoelectrode array in a closed bipolar electrochemical system is coupled with an oxidative ECL process at the anodic side. For elevating the ECL imaging contrast of single cells, a driving voltage of −2.0 V is applied to in situ generate oxygen confined beneath cells that is subsequently used for ECL imaging at 1.1 V. High oxygen concentration in the confined space resulting from steric hindrance generates prominent oxygen reduction current at the cathodic side and higher ECL intensity at the anodic side, allowing positive ECL imaging of the cells adhesion region with excellent contrast. Cell morphology and adhesion strength can be successfully imaged with high image acquisition rate. This approach opens a new avenue for label‐free imaging of single cells.
Studies on Thiol Etching of Gold by Using QCM‐D Sensor as the Sacrificial Probe
Authors: Wang Tao , Li Zheng , Zong Runfa , Li Jingzhe
Published: December 2021

There is still a lack of deep understanding on the reaction kinetics and mechanism of thiol etching of gold. Herein, by using the sensor of quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) as the sacrificial probe, the etching reaction of gold has been studied by employing cysteamine (CS) as a typical thiol etchant. The etching reaction is verified as diffusion‐controlled and shows a half‐order reaction kinetics. It is demonstrated that intact thiol and amino on CS are both crucial for its etching ability to gold. Applied potentials can affect the electron transfer and hence can be used to regulate the gold etching. Our results also reveal that only two carbon atoms of the spacer between thiol and amino on CS are very critical to the excellent etching ability. This work exhibits a new route to explore the thiol etching reaction of gold and elucidates the reaction kinetics and mechanism.
Systematic review of studies examining contribution of oral health variables to risk prediction models for undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
Authors: Glurich Ingrid , Shimpi Neel , Bartkowiak Barb , Berg Richard L. , Acharya Amit
Published: December 2021

Objective

To conduct systematic review applying “preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses statement” and “prediction model risk of assessment bias tool” to studies examining the performance of predictive models incorporating oral health‐related variables as candidate predictors for projecting undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (Type 2)/prediabetes risk.

Materials and Methods

Literature searches undertaken in PubMed, Web of Science, and Gray literature identified eligible studies published between January 1, 1980 and July 31, 2018. Systematically reviewed studies met inclusion criteria if studies applied multivariable regression modeling or informatics approaches to risk prediction for undiagnosed diabetes/prediabetes, and included dental/oral health‐related variables modeled either independently, or in combination with other risk variables.

Results

Eligibility for systematic review was determined for seven of the 71 studies screened. Nineteen dental/oral health‐related variables were examined across studies. “Periodontal pocket depth” and/or “missing teeth” were oral health variables consistently retained as predictive variables in models across all systematically reviewed studies. Strong performance metrics were reported for derived models by all systematically reviewed studies. The predictive power of independently modeled oral health variables was marginally amplified when modeled with point‐of‐care biological glycemic measures in dental settings. Meta‐analysis was precluded due to high inter‐study variability in study design and population diversity.

Conclusions

Predictive modeling consistently supported “periodontal measures” and “missing teeth” as candidate variables for predicting undiagnosed diabetes/prediabetes. Validation of predictive risk modeling for undiagnosed diabetes/prediabetes across diverse populations will test the feasibility of translating such models into clinical practice settings as noninvasive screening tools for identifying at‐risk individuals following demonstration of model validity within the defined population.
Use of a Latin square design to assess experimental errors in field evaluation of cotton for resistance to Fusarium wilt Race 4
Authors: Zhang Jinfa , Zhu Yi , Abdelraheem Abdelraheem , Elkins‐Arce Heather D. , Dever Jane , Wheeler Terry , Isakeit Thomas , Hake Kater , Wedegaertner Tom
Published: December 2021

Field evaluation of cotton for resistance to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum Race 4 (FOV4) is important in breeding. In this study, an 8 × 8 Latin square design was arranged in two FOV4‐infested fields each with two trials to evaluate eight cotton (Gossypium hirstum) cultivars based on mortality rate (MR) and root vascular staining (RVS). For a comparison, two trials of the same design were grown in the greenhouse. Consistent with the mapping pattern of MR in the Texas field, the analysis of variance confirmed the existence of effects due to tiers not planting rows in the Texas location only. Significant variation due to cultivars was consistently detected in the two trials of both locations. The repeatability was confirmed by significant correlation coefficients between most tiers (replications) and between the two trials in each field. The greenhouse test had the highest mean MR (72–78%) and lowest coefficients of variation (CV; 17–28%), followed by the Texas field with a lower MR (36–57%) and similar CV (22–29%); and the New Mexico test had the highest CV (59–73%) and the lowest MR (13–18%). The MR between the two fields and between the fields and the greenhouse were significantly correlated. ‘Pima S‐7’ had the highest MR (79–93%), whereas ‘FM 2334GLT’ had the lowest (15–35%), consistent with RVS at crop maturity. Among randomized complete block designs (RCBD) with three to seven replications, the mean squared error and CV were the lowest in RCBD with three replications.
Clarifying optimal outcome measures in intermittent and continuous laryngeal neuromonitoring
Authors: Sinclair Catherine F. , Buczek Erin , Cottril Elizabeth , Angelos Peter , Barczynski Marcin , Ho Allen S. , Makarin Viktor , Musholt Thomas , Scharpf Joseph , Schneider Rick , Stack Jr Brendan C. , Tellez Maria J. , Tolley Neil , Woodson Gayle , Wu Che Wei , Randolph Gregory
Published: December 2021

Background

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) techniques have evolved over the past decade into intermittent IONM (I‐IONM) and continuous IONM (C‐IONM) modes of application. Despite many prior publications on both types of IONM, there remains uncertainty about what outcomes should be measured for each form of IONM. The primary objective of this paper is to define categories of benefit for I‐IONM/C‐IONM and to clarify and standardize their reporting outcomes.

Methods

Expert review consensus statement utilizing modified Delphi methodology.

Results

I‐IONM provides diagnosis, classification, and prevention of nerve injury through accurate and early nerve identification. C‐IONM provides real‐time information on nerve functional integrity and thus may prevent some types of nerve injury but cannot assist in nerve localization. Sudden mechanisms of nerve injury cannot be predicted or prevented by either technique.

Conclusions

I‐IONM and C‐IONM are complementary techniques. Future studies evaluating the utility of IONM should focus on outcomes that are appropriate to the type of IONM being utilized.
Daidzein exerts neuroprotective activity against MPTP‐induced Parkinson's disease in experimental mice and lipopolysaccharide‐induced BV2 microglial cells
Authors: Wu Qiong , Wang Maode , Chen Wei , Wang Kaili , Wang Yujing
Published: December 2021

Parkinson's disease (PD) ranks as the second most neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of neurons, bradykinesia, anosmia, sleep disorder, and motor deficiency with increased global prevalence. Here, we have analyzed daidzein's neuroprotective functions in in vitro and in vivo models of PD. BV2 microglial cells induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and C57BL6 mice induced with MPTP (1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine) were used in this study to investigate neuroprotective functions of daidzein. BV2 cells induced with LPS do not exert and significant (p < 0.05) reduction in cell viability up to concentration range (5–100 µM/ml). Furthermore, LPS exposed BV2 microglia exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) increased NO production, pro‐inflammatory mediators PGE2, interleukin‐6 (IL6), and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) levels. Treatment with daidzein (10, 25, and 50 µM/ml) to LPS‐induced BV2 microglia exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) decreased NO, pro‐inflammatory mediators PGE2, IL6, and IlL‐1β. Similar to the in vitro results, C57BL6 mice induced with MPTP showed defects in motor functions as observed from altered forelimb and hindlimb footprint analyses, grip strength, and perturbed motor coordination observed via rotarod tests. Additionally, levels of dopamine were significantly reduced, and pro‐inflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), IL‐1β, IL6 were found to be increased in MPTP‐induced C57BL6 PD mice. Administering daidzein significantly restored the functional levels of dopamine and pro‐inflammatory mediators TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL6 to near normal physiology as seen in healthy C57BL6 mice controls. Similarly, daidzein treatment to PD mice also restored the histological architecture to near normal levels as in control mice. Together, our results collectively endorse the neuroprotective functions of daidzein as observed from our initial studies, and further studies aimed at investigating daidzein's ability in regulating the catecholamine synthesis pathway to protect substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) neurons are in focus.
Biological removal of gas‐phase H2S in hollow fibre membrane bioreactors
Authors: Das Jewel , Ravishankar Harish , Lens Piet N. L.
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) must be treated at its emission source to avoid health risks, odour, and corrosion. Conventional physico‐chemical H2S removal technologies (for example, membrane contactors or chemical scrubbers) have several limitations, such as requiring high amounts of absorption chemicals and energy. In contrast, biological H2S removal technologies are environment friendly, easy to operate, and less expensive due to their low energy requirements. In this study, the feasibility of a porous hydrophilic polyethersulfone hollow fibre membrane bioreactor (HFMB) was tested for the biological removal of gas‐phase H2S by employing three lab‐scale reactors (two biotic and one abiotic). The HFMBs were operated at ~20 °C for ~3 months, employing different H2S inlet loading rates (ILR) and an empty bed residence time of 187 s.

RESULTS

Biotic performance of the HFMBs demonstrated that the removal efficiency (RE) varied between the different inocula and was in the range of 80–100% for the applied H2S ILR of ~5.0–7.5 g m−3 h−1. The RE reached a constant value of ~100% in both biotic reactors at an ILR of ~17.0 g m−3 h−1 when using acclimatized inoculum. The biotic HFMBs demonstrated ~5–9 times higher H2S flux and ~ 20–26 times higher mass transfer compared to the abiotic control. Surface morphology revealed attached microbial growth on the outer surface of the membranes, while the high throughput sequencing confirmed the richness of H2S oxidizing microbial communities on the shell side.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results confirm that the HFMB configuration is suitable for biological treatment of H2S laden waste gas. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Acute hypoxia exposure following prenatal stress impairs hippocampus and novelty‐seeking behavior in adolescent rats
Authors: Çelik Kübra , Bilim Petek , Garip Gurur , Durmaz Burak , Yildirim Sözmen Eser , Baka Meral
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of acute hypoxia exposure following prenatal stress on the novelty‐seeking behavior and hippocampus of adolescent rats.

Methods

The offspring were divided into prenatal stress (PS) and non‐stress (NS) groups. Both groups were exposed to hypoxia on postnatal day 10 (P10) while control groups were undisturbed. Novel object recognition task was performed in each group. Next, brains were collected to examine hippocampus via immunohistochemical and biochemical studies on postnatal day 35 (P35).

Results

PS decreased novelty discrimination and synaptophysin (SYN) expressions in both CA1 and CA3 of the hypoxia group prominently (p < 0.05). Nestin‐expressing cells were reduced while vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression was enhanced in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of PS‐hypoxia group (p < 0.05). VEGF enhancement triggered angiogenesis in the CA1 and CA3 significantly (p < 0.05). PS also increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels in the hypoxia group as a result of oxidative stress (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that PS exacerbates neurodevelopmental deficits in the hippocampus of acute hypoxia‐induced offspring in adolescence.
Noninvasive detection of fetal genetic variations through polymorphic site sequencing of maternal plasma DNA
Authors: Gao Song
Published: December 2021

Background

Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for common fetal aneuploidies has been widely adopted in clinical practice for its sensitivity and accuracy. However, detection of pathogenic copy number variations (pCNVs) or monogenic disorders (MDs) is inaccurate and not cost effective. Here we developed an assay, the noninvasive prenatal testing based on goodness‐of‐fit and graphical analysis of polymorphic sites (GGAP‐NIPT), to simultaneously detect fetal aneuploidies, pCNVs, and MDs.

Methods

Polymorphic sites were amplicon sequenced, followed by fetal fraction estimation using allelic reads counts and a robust linear regression model. The genotype of each polymorphic site or MD variant was then determined by allelic goodness‐of‐fit test or graphical analysis of its different alleles. Finally, aneuploidies and pCNVs were detected using collective goodness‐of‐fit test to select each best fit from all possible chromosomal models.

Results

Of the simulated 1,692 chromosomes and 1,895 pCNVs, all normals and variants were correctly identified (accuracy 100%, sensitivity 100%, specificity 100%). Of the 713,320 simulated MD variants, more than 90% of the genotypes were determined correctly (accuracy: 98.3 ± 1.0%; sensitivity: 98.7 ± 1.96%; specificity: 99.7 ± 0.6%). The detection accuracies of three public MD datasets were 95.70%, 93.43%, and 96.83%. For an MD validation dataset, 75% detection accuracy was observed when a site with sample replicates was analyzed individually, and 100% accuracy was achieved when analyzed collectively.

Conclusions

Fetal aneuploidies, pCNVs, and MDs could be detected simultaneously and with high accuracy through amplicon sequencing of polymorphic and target sites, which showed the potential of extending NIPT to an expanded panel of genetic disorders.
Combination therapy of tocilizumab and steroid for COVID‐19 patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Moosazadeh Mahmood , Mousavi Tahoora
Published: December 2021

The coagulation markers, pro‐inflammatory cytokines (such as IL‐2R, IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐a) and lymphopenia are associated with the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) disease. The use of anti‐inflammatory agents, such as corticosteroids (CS) or tosilizumab (TCZ), has been suggested for the treatment of advanced stage of COVID‐19 and the reduction of mechanical ventilators and mortality. The aim of this meta‐analysis is to determine the role of combination therapy with tocilizumab and steroids in COVID‐19 patients. Relevant studies were found using online international databases, and suitable studies were selected and assessed by two independent researchers. The quality of all papers was determined by a checklist. Heterogeneity assay among the primary studies was evaluated by Cochran's Q‐test and I2 index. The statistical analyses were done using the Stata ver. 14 package (StataCorp) software. Publication bias was estimated through Egger's test, and the impact of each study on the overall estimate was assessed by sensitivity analysis. Five studies were entered into this meta‐analysis. The results of these studies showed that the risk of death for COVID‐19 patients treated with the combination of corticosteroids and tocilizumab compared to tocilizumab and the control group was 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36–1.50) and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.31–0.74), respectively. This meta‐analysis showed that the risk of death in COVID‐19 patients who were treated with corticosteroids and tocilizumab was lower than the tocilizumab alone and control groups (26% and 52%, respectively).
Soil actinobacteria inhibit antagonistic fungi of leafcutter ant colonies
Authors: do Nascimento Mariela O. , Teles Tenório Amanda C. , Sarmento Renato A. , Melo Rita de Cássia C. , Della Lucia Terezinha Maria Castro , Dias Amaral Karina , de Souza Danival J.
Published: December 2021

Founder females of the leaf‐cutting ant species Atta sexdens experience high mortality during the founding and establishment of their colonies. The foundation site is crucial for the success of a new colony. In this study, we isolated and identified actinobacteria from fungus garden chambers of A. sexdens colony growth in soils from (1) forested areas without leafcutter ant nests and (2) open ground areas close to leafcutter ant nests. The inhibitory effect of these isolates on pathogenic fungi and the mutualistic fungus cultivated by leafcutter ants was evaluated. The 16S rRNA gene sequences were employed to identify nine selected actinobacteria species found in the soil: Streptomyces (6), Nocardia (2), and Kitasatospora (1). One Streptomyces and one Kitasatospora isolate inhibited all the tested fungi. Since there is no evidence of actinobacteria cultivation in the workers’ cuticle of the Atta genus, our results corroborate the hypothesis that these workers may establish temporary adaptive symbiosis with soil microorganisms that produce antibiotic substances, living in some parts of their nest, or even inside their bodies. Pathogenic fungi are a risk factor that can be controlled by actinobacteria metabolites from soils, with minimal energy cost to the colony.
Evaluation of three sorbent‐phase extraction techniques based on hyper‐crosslinked polymer for the extraction of five endocrine disrupters in water
Authors: Huang Guiqi , Su Meiling , Zhang Wei , Liu Yamin , Chen Chunyan , Li Simin
Published: December 2021

A series of low‐cost hyper‐crosslinked polymers were prepared by an easy one‐step Friedel‐Crafts reaction. The synthesized hyper‐crosslinked polymers exhibited remarkably porous structure, large surface area, and hydroxyl groups, which can be employed as an ideal adsorbent material for novel sorbent‐phase extraction techniques. Based on this, using hyper‐crosslinked polymers as sorbent and coating, three novel extraction methods, including micro‐solid‐phase extraction, dispersive solid‐phase extraction, and solid‐phase microextraction, were explored and evaluated for simultaneous measurement of five endocrine‐disrupting compounds (triclosan and bisphenol A, tetrabromobisphenol A, tetrabromobisphenol A bisallylether, and tetrabromobisphenol A bis(2,3‐dibromopropyl ether)) in environment water prior to high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet. The influence of experimental parameters on three extraction techniques such as extraction time, the amount of hyper‐crosslinked polymers, extraction temperature, ionic strength, and desorption conditions were optimized. Three previously mentioned methods provided limits of detection ranging from 0.01 to 0.05 μg/L, and high recoveries (85–99%) with relative standard deviations of 1.7–5.6%. This study presented the merits and disadvantages of three proposed extraction methods and their potential for effective monitoring of hazardous pollutants in real water samples.
Interpreting the weak monadic second order theory of the ordered rationals
Authors: Truss John K.
Published: December 2021

We show that the weak monadic second order theory of the structure is first order interpretable in its automorphism group.
Submikroliter, Selbsttests, Digitalisierung ‐‐ Entwicklungen bei Kolbenhubpipetten
Authors: Ehrensberger Christian
Published: December 2021

Kolbenhubpipetten gibt es seit 60 Jahren in Laboren. In den letzten Jahren sind sie ergonomischer und genauer geworden, lassen sich fernsteuern und kommunizieren mit anderen Geräten.
Lackbranche: Daten und Vernetzung fehlen
Authors: Stalmach Ulf , Wörheide Ralph Jan
Published: December 2021

Historisch haben sich in der Farben‐ und Lackindustrie Messmethoden für Entwicklung und Qualitätskontrolle etabliert, die am Endprodukt „lackierte Oberfläche“ orientiert sind. Sie beschreiben die Qualität eher, als sie quantitativ und wissenschaftlich fundiert zu messen.
Retortenbabys für Nashörner
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: December 2021

Wenn bedrohte Arten durch natürliche Vermehrung selbst unter besten Bedingungen nicht mehr zu retten sind, dann kommt Biotechnologie zum Zug – mit Maßnahmen von Reagenzglasbefruchtung bis Klonieren. Pandas, Nashörner und Schwarzfußiltisse bekommen bereits solche Unterstützung aus dem Labor.
Vorstandssitzungen
Authors: Koch Wolfram
Published: December 2021

Bericht über die Sitzung (Videokonferenz) des GDCh‐Vorstands am 30. August 2021 sowie die außerordentliche Sitzung (Videokonferenz) am 29. September 2021.
A simple method for quantifying de novo lipogenesis rate and substrate selection in cell cultures by 13C NMR isotopomer analysis of the crude lipid fraction
Authors: Patrício João S. , Dias‐Pedroso Daniela , Carvalho Rui A. , Viera Helena L. A. , Jones John G.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

De novo lipogenesis (DNL) is critical for cell growth and maintenance, and acetyl‐CoA precursors can be derived from different substrates. We developed a 13C NMR analysis of lipid extracts from cultured microglia cells administered with [U‐13C]glucose that informs overall lipogenic activity as well as the contribution of glucose to lipogenic acetyl‐CoA.

Methods

BV‐2 microglial cell line cultured with glucose and glutamine was provided with [U‐13C]glucose and unlabeled glutamine for 24 h and studied in either the presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cells were then extracted for lipids and the crude lipid fraction was analyzed by 13C NMR. 13C‐isotopomer signals in the fatty acid ω − 1 and ω − 2 signals representing consecutive or non‐consecutive enrichment of the fatty acid chain by [1,2‐13C2]acetyl‐CoA were quantified and applied to a probabilistic model of acetyl‐CoA precursor and fatty acid enrichment.

Results

Glucose contributed 72 ± 2% of lipogenic acetyl‐CoA while DNL from all sources accounted for 16 ± 2% of lipid turnover. With LPS, there was a significant decrease in glucose contribution (59 ± 4%, p < 0.05) while DNL was unchanged (11 ± 3%).

Conclusions

A simple 13C NMR analysis of the crude lipid fractions of BV‐2 cells administered with [U‐13C]glucose informs DNL activity and the contribution of glucose to the acetyl‐CoA precursors. While DNL was preserved in the presence of LPS, there was redirection of lipogenic acetyl‐CoA sources from glucose to other substrates. Thus, in the present article, we describe a novel and simple 13C NMR analysis approach to disclose the overall lipogenic activity and substrate contribution to DNL, suitable for evaluating DNL rates in cell cultures.
Development and evaluation of virtual reality simulation education based on coronavirus disease 2019 scenario for nursing students: A pilot study
Authors: Jeong Younhee , Lee Hanna , Han Jeong‐Won
Published: December 2021

Aim

This research is designed to establish and evaluate the effectiveness of a virtual reality simulation program using COVID‐19 scenario for nursing students.

Design

This is a quasi‐experimental study using a non‐equivalent control group pre‐test‐posttest design.

Methods

The participants were 65 students in their fourth year in nursing college. The knowledge about communicable infectious diseases in the respiratory system, self‐efficacy, clinical reasoning capacity and learning satisfaction was evaluated.

Results

The experimental group showed a significantly higher learning satisfaction (t = 3.01, p = .004). Both groups presented statistically significant differences in knowledge on infectious respiratory diseases, self‐efficacy and clinical reasoning between pre‐test and posttest. However, knowledge (t = 0.47, p = .643), self‐efficacy (t = 0.70, p = .944) and clinical reasoning were not different between the groups.
Bearing‐only neural network adaptive formation control using negative gradient method
Authors: Wang Qin , Li Sulong , Wang Enci , Yi Yang
Published: December 2021

In this article, the neural network adaptive formation control of a class of second‐order nonlinear systems with unmodeled dynamics is investigated, where the control law merely depends on the relative bearings between neighboring agents. First of all, the radial basis neural network is introduced to approximate unknown nonlinear dynamics, and the adaptive estimation is used to eliminate the effect of the approximation errors and the bounded disturbance. Furthermore, the negative gradient method is proposed to optimize the multi‐agent systems to the desired formation shape, and the backstepping method is introduced to design the bearing‐only formation control law. And then, the global stability of the bearing‐only neural network formation system is proved using the Barbalat's lemma. Finally, the simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed formation control algorithm.
Kerala's electoral victory 2021: Has the politics of behavioural nudging paid off?
Authors: Pandamangalam Kalam Sujathan , Mavumkal George Prasad , Parambengal Azad , Varkey Jins
Published: December 2021

This article contends that the ruling government in Kerala state of India drew insights from a powerful policy tool viz behavioural nudging which in turn influenced the voting behaviour of Keralites enabling the government to retain power again. This was made possible by the Left Democratic Front Government of the State by applying and carrying out seven principles of behavioural nudging among the people efficaciously. Using qualitative naturalistic observation method, the paper concludes that both political and welfare mileage was leveraged out of it to the best advantage of the government as well as the citizens. To date, there is a serious dearth of evidence on the political economy of nudging in a behavioural context. This article attempts to fill the gap in this regard.