bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable intensification of agriculture improves soil nitrogen in the Argentinean Humid Pampas
Authors: Martínez Juan Pablo , Crespo Cecilia , Cuervo Matías , Echeverría Hernán , Martínez Fernando , Cordone Graciela , Barbieri Pablo
Published: March 2022

In the Argentinean Humid Pampas, intensification practices like crop rotation, cover crops (CC), and fertilization can improve soil N balance. This study aimed to assess how intensification practices affect soil organic N (Norg), Norg in the particulate fraction (PF‐Norg), and N mineralized during a short‐term (7 d) anaerobic incubation (aN) in a 4‐yr experiment with soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]‐based crop sequences. At two sites differing in initial soil organic matter (SOM), five crop sequences were evaluated: continuous soybean (Sb); continuous soybean fertilized with P and sulfur (S; Sbf); CC/PS‐fertilized soybean (Sbf/CC); N‐fertilized CC/PS‐fertilized soybean (Sbf/CCf); NPS‐fertilized crop rotation (Rot). In addition, at one site we evaluated the C and N accumulation in CC dry matter, CC inclusion effect on soil inorganic N dynamics, and C and N content in soybean grain and shoots. At Site 1 (low SOM), Norg and PF‐Norg increased in intensified sequences as compared with Sb and Sbf, whereas no differences among treatments were detected at Site 2 (high SOM). Also, an increase in aN was observed in intensified treatments at both sites. At Site 2, soil sampling took place at soybean sowing and harvest during two growing seasons. At soybean sowing, Sb and Sbf presented ∼30 kg NO3−–N ha−1 more than intensified sequences, whereas at soybean harvest this trend was the opposite. In the fallow, CC captured N, minimizing N leaching without affecting N accumulation in soybean. Our results indicate that intensification in soybean‐based sequences improves soil N balances.
Iterative symbolic regression for learning transport equations
Authors: Ansari Mehrad , Gandhi Heta A. , Foster David G. , White Andrew D.
Published: March 2022

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis is widely used in chemical engineering. Although CFD calculations are accurate, the computational cost associated with complex systems makes it difficult to obtain empirical equations between system variables. Here, we combine active learning (AL) and symbolic regression (SR) to get a symbolic equation for system variables from CFD simulations. Gaussian process regression‐based AL allows for automated selection of variables by selecting the most instructive points from the available range of possible parameters. The results from these experiments are then passed to SR to find empirical symbolic equations for CFD models. This approach is scalable and applicable for any desired number of CFD design parameters. To demonstrate the effectiveness, we use this method with two model systems. We recover an empirical equation for the pressure drop in a bent pipe and a new equation for predicting backflow in a heart valve under aortic insufficiency.
Recent Advances in Metal‐Catalyzed C−H Bond Functionalization Reactions of Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Bhorali Pratiksha , Sultana Sabera , Gogoi Sanjib
Published: March 2022

In recent years, the transition‐metal‐catalyzed functionalization reactions of sulfoxonium ylides have been explored extensively because of their usefulness as carbene‐transfer agents, since they can produce metal carbenes through metal catalysis. Moreover, they are safer and have the advantages of simple handling and good stability over their other counterparts like diazo‐compounds. This review article attempts to highlight the recent advances in the metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalization of sulfoxonium ylides.
The relationship of maternal rank, 5‐HTTLPR genotype, and MAOA‐LPR genotype to temperament in infant rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Capitanio John P. , Sommet Nicolas , Del Rosso Laura
Published: March 2022

Temperament is a construct whose manifestations are quantifiable from an early age, and whose origins have been proposed as “biological.” Our goal was to determine whether maternal rank and infant genotype are associated with five measures of temperament in 3‐ to 4‐month old rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta), all of whom were born and reared by their mothers in large, outdoor, half‐acre cages. Maternal rank was defined as the proportion of animals outranked by each female, and the two genes of interest to us were monoamine oxidase and serotonin transporter, both of which are polymorphic in their promoter regions (MAOA‐LPR and 5‐HTTLPR, respectively), with one allele of each gene considered a “plasticity” allele, conferring increased sensitivity to environmental events. Our large sample size (n = 2014–3140) enabled us to examine the effects of individual genotypes rather than combining genotypes as is often done. Rank was positively associated with Confident temperament, but only for animals with the 5‐repeat allele for MAOA‐LPR. Rank had no other effect on temperament. In contrast, genotype had many different effects, with 5‐HTTLPR associated with behavioral inhibition, and MAOA‐LPR associated with ratings‐based measures of temperament. We also examined the joint effect of the two genotypes and found some evidence for a dose‐response: animals with the plasticity alleles for both genes were more likely to be behaviorally inhibited. Our results suggest phenotypic differences between animals possessing alleles for MAOA‐LPR that show functional equivalence based on in vitro tests, and our data for 5‐HTTLPR revealed differences between short/short homozygotes and long/short heterozygotes, strongly suggesting that combining genotypes for statistical analysis should be avoided if possible. Our analysis also provides evidence of sex differences in temperament, and, to our knowledge, the only evidence of differences in temperament based on specific pathogen‐free status. We suggest several directions for future research.
Reconstruction of Greek population diet from Neolithic period to modern times
Authors: Dotsika Elissavet , Tassi Maria , Karalis Petros , Gougoura Sofia , Kranioti Elena F. , Michael Dimitra E. , Kazou Maria , Poutouki Anastasia E. , Diamantopoulos Georgios
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Isotopic analysis has been proven a valuable tool for reconstructing dietary habits in the ancient world. In this work we examine the evolution of Greek diet from the Neolithic period (6800–3000 BC) to modern times.

Materials and Methods

We present isotopic analysis results for δ13C and δ15Ν of adult human bone collagen from ancient (Kaiadas in Sparta) and modern populations (Crete), while at the same time we review published results for δ13C and δ15Ν of adult human bone collagen from Neolithic to modern times of Greece.

Results

The δ13C isotopic values evolve to more positive values, while they present a greater variability toward modern times. Furthermore, the δ15N values gradually increase over time.

Discussion

We discuss the differences i) in human diet through time for the whole Greece and ii) individually for the island of Crete and we conclude that over time human diet becomes richer in high trophic level proteins such as marine sources with a larger variety of food sources.
Clinical research in dementia: A perspective on implementing innovation
Authors: Boccardi Marina , Handels Ron , Gold Michael , Grazia Alice , Lutz Michael W. , Martin Mike , Nosheny Rachel , Robillard Julie M. , Weidner Wendy , Alexandersson Jan , Thyrian Jochen René , Winblad Bengt , Barbarino Paola , Khachaturian Ara S. , Teipel Stefan
Published: March 2022

The increasing global prevalence of dementia demands concrete actions that are aimed strategically at optimizing processes that drive clinical innovation. The first step in this direction requires outlining hurdles in the transition from research to practice. The different parties needed to support translational processes have communication mismatches; methodological gaps hamper evidence‐based decision‐making; and data are insufficient to provide reliable estimates of long‐term health benefits and costs in decisional models. Pilot projects are tackling some of these gaps, but appropriate methods often still need to be devised or adapted to the dementia field. A consistent implementation perspective along the whole translational continuum, explicitly defined and shared among the relevant stakeholders, should overcome the “research‐versus‐adoption” dichotomy, and tackle the implementation cliff early on. Concrete next steps may consist of providing tools that support the effective participation of heterogeneous stakeholders and agreeing on a definition of clinical significance that facilitates the selection of proper outcome measures.
Japanese medical students’ awareness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Machino Hiromi , Irie Jin , Hiraki Katsushige , Ukaji Yukari , Sawaya Shunnosuke , Nomura Osamu , Hanada Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

Aim

To evaluate Japanese medical students’ awareness of newly recommended cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and airway management procedures in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

An online survey was sent in December 2020 to all medical students at Hirosaki University in Japan. The survey included 15 questions and quizzes regarding prior experience of learning the new CPR guidelines in response to COVID‐19, knowledge of conventional CPR, and COVID‐19 context CPR and airway management procedures.

Results

Of all medical students at the university, 457 (57.1%) responded to the survey. Among these, 22% reported that they were knowledgeable about CPR procedure in the COVID‐19 pandemic setting. Prior knowledge of CPR in the context of COVID‐19 was a significant positive predictor of quiz score regarding the CPR procedure (β = 0.60, P < 0.01) and the airway management procedure (β = 0.34, P = 0.02) in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Conclusions

Medical students with experience learning the new COVID‐19 context CPR guidelines had sufficient knowledge of CPR and advanced airway management procedures in the setting of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Implementation of a formal medical education curriculum based on the newly recommended CPR and advanced life support guidelines is needed to improve medical students’ awareness and skills of CPR and airway management in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Advances in Nanomedicines for Interaction with the Intestinal Barrier
Authors: Lin Sisi , Wu Feng , Cao Zhenping , Liu Jinyao
Published: March 2022

The intestinal barrier plays a vital role in maintaining the homeostasis of the gut and the organism. Various nanomedicines with advantages in interacting with the intestinal barrier have been developed for disease treatment. Previous studies indicate multiple interactions between these nanomaterials and the intestinal barrier, boosting their applications in promoting the efficiency of oral drug delivery. Recently, numerous elegant nanomedicines have been developed for preventing and treating both intestinal and extraintestinal diseases. Integration of multiple elements with diverse functions into a single type of nanomedicine is beneficial for comprehensive regulation of its interaction with the intestinal barrier and the corresponding treatment efficacy. In this review, the interactions between nanomaterials and the intestinal barrier are discussed following an introduction of the structure and function of the intestinal barrier, with an aim to better understanding the rational design of effective nanomedicines, particularly for oral delivery. Lastly, the applications of oral nanomedicines in treating intestinal barrier dysfunction and relevant diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer, are highlighted. It is anticipated that this review will stimulate more innovative thinking focused on the intestinal barrier as a critical target for drug delivery and disease treatment.
Enantioselective Seleno‐Michael Addition Reactions Catalyzed by a Chiral Bifunctional N‐Heterocyclic Carbene with Noncovalent Activation
Authors: Li En , Chen Jiean , Huang Yong
Published: March 2022

The Michael reaction is a conjugate addition and is one of the most powerful methods with which to prepare functional molecules with a β‐stereogenic center. Despite its success in the formation of various asymmetric carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bonds, enantioselective seleno‐Michael addition remains essentially unexplored. We report here a highly enantioselective Michael addition reaction of alkyl selenols to enones. This method conveniently introduces a Se atom to an electron‐deficient double bond asymmetrically. A chiral bifunctional N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)/thiourea catalyst was developed as a key ingredient that delivers chiral β‐seleno ketones with remarkable selectivity. This new catalyst and its mode of action support broad applications in the catalytic activation of nucleophilic reactions.
The behavior of coal slime bursting in early stage combustion and induced pore structure change
Authors: Wang Hui , Liu Hanhui , Yang Dawei , Yang Hairui , Zhao Kaixiang
Published: March 2022

To conduct an in‐depth analysis of the bursting of coal slime in its early stage of combustion, a high‐speed camera was used to film the bursting process in a horizontal tube furnace. Three different types of coal slime with water contents of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% under different temperatures of 750°C, 850°C, and 950°C were tested. The behavior of coal slime bursting and the influence of water content and temperature were obtained. It appears that there is a critical water content and a deduced range to determine primary bursting intensity. The bursting intensity index (BII) increases with furnace temperature and water content. So a comprehensive consideration of temperature and water content is crucial for industrial design. To investigate influence induced by the bursting, analysis of the micromorphology and pore structure changes of the coal slime samples before and after bursting at 850°C has been done and shows that the coal slime structure after bursting changes greatly compared with the original state of the coal slime. The calculation results of the fractal dimension show that the pore structure of coal slime after bursting becomes more complicated, and the portion of pores in the coal slime generally increases after bursting.
Preparation of polysiloxane foam with graphene for promoting electromagnetic interference shielding performance and thermal stability
Authors: Sima Haofei , Sui Yanlong , Zhang Chunling
Published: March 2022

Mechanical exfoliation of graphene (MEG) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) are fabricated with using graphite and they are used as fillers to improve the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance and thermal stability of polysiloxane composite foam. Since graphene builds a conductive network in the matrix and at the same time enhances the impedance mismatch between the syntactic foam and the external free space, the total shielding effectiveness (SEtotal) of the composite foam can reach up to 4.74 dB, which is 500% higher than that of pure foam. Moreover, the layered structure of graphene can restrict the small molecules generated during the foam pyrolysis process from leaving the system, and also increases the maximum decomposition temperature of the composite foam (increased from 431.8 to about 500°C), which improves the thermal stability of the foam. These results indicate that the combination of graphene in polysiloxane foams produces composite foams with multifunctional properties, suitable for applications requiring EMI shielding and thermal performance.
Developing extreme heat acclimation in Bemisia tabaci Mediterranean (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Jhan Pijush Kanti , Lee Kyeong‐Yeoll
Published: March 2022

Bemisia tabaci Mediterranean (MED) is a highly invasive cryptic species complex found in the world's tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. It is a severe pest of various crops and a vector of plant pathogenic viruses, particularly geminiviruses. Thermal acclimation of insects is a critical for the survival in unfavorable temperature condition. We observed that great survival rate of B. tabaci MED at the uncontrolled greenhouse which had fluctuating temperature condition (FTC) from 10°C to 60°C in spring and summer season. Our study showed that while B. tabaci MED reared under FTC for 10 weeks from April to June, its survival rate was gradually increased when heat shock was treated 50°C for 0.5 h. In contrast, the same heat shock treatment was lethal in the colony reared under constant temperature condition (CTC) at the controlled insectary. After being acclimated, the lethal temperatures LT50, LT95, and LT100 under CTC were 47.7°C, 50.1°C, and 50.3°C, whereas those under FTC were 59.8°C, 62.7°C, and 63.0°C, respectively. In addition, we observed that the transcript levels of three investigated heat shock protein (HSP) genes (hsp20, hsp70, and hsp90) were lower under FTC than under CTC. This study suggests that B. tabaci MED retains high heat acclimation ability, making it tolerant of extreme thermal conditions.
Effect of fluorescence quenching model on quinoline derivative with cobalt chloride metal ion using steady state and time resolved spectroscopic methods
Authors: Melavanki Raveendra , Kumar Vijaya , Singh Diksha , Dhiman Nishant , Koppal Varsha V. , Patil N. R.
Published: March 2022

Quinoline derivative, i.e. quinilone yellow with the scientific name [sodium 2‐(2,3‐dihydro‐1,3‐dioxo‐1H‐inden‐2‐yl)quinoline‐6,8‐disulphonate] (SQDS) is analysed for fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). Fluorescence quenching mechanism is studied by employing steady state and transient state spectroscopic measurements. Cobalt chloride is used as quencher in the present study. Linearity was observed in Stern–Volmer plots for transient state as well as steady state. This was further attributed to a mechanism of collisional quenching. Efficiency in fluorescence quenching is observed as there is a correlation between quenching constants of both transient and steady state. A significant energy transfer is reported between metal ions and SQDS molecule, according to FRET theory. Characterization results are studied and analysed. Application in the field of non‐linear optics are predicted for SQDS. With Kurtz and Perry powder technique, SHG (second harmonic generation) efficiency was measured using Q‐switched mode locked Nd:YAG laser emitting 1064 nm the first time with this compound.
Climate change exposure and internal carbon pricing adoption
Authors: Ben‐Amar Walid , Gomes Mathieu , Khursheed Hania , Marsat Sylvain
Published: March 2022

Governments and corporations around the world are increasingly pressured to manage climate‐related business risks and reduce their carbon footprint. Consequently, a growing number of corporations have started implementing internal carbon pricing (ICP) programs, assigning a monetary value to their carbon emissions as a mitigation and adaptation mechanism. This paper explores the motives underlying voluntary ICP adoption and examines whether a firm's exposure to climate‐related risks is a relevant driver of ICP adoption. Using a worldwide sample of firms reporting to the Carbon Disclosure Project between 2016 and 2018, we find that firm‐level climate change exposure is significantly and positively related to the likelihood of ICP adoption. More specifically, the probability of adoption is largely linked to regulatory shocks and opportunity exposure. Moreover, we find that board independence acts as a moderator in the climate change exposure–ICP adoption relation. The findings of this study shed light on the factors contributing to the acceleration in ICP implementation in the context of a coordinated effort between public and private sectors to reduce global emissions.
Corporate environmental information disclosure and bank financing: Moderating effect of formal and informal institutions
Authors: Li Qiang , Ruan Wenjuan , Shi Huimin , Xiang Erwei , Zhang Feida (Frank)
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates the effect of the quality of environmental information disclosure of firms on their bank financing and further examines the moderating effect of formal and informal institutions on this effect using China as a laboratory. We find that the quality of environmental information disclosure is positively (negatively) related to the scale (cost) of bank financing. Furthermore, the formal institution (proxied by the official issuance of the Green Credit Guidelines) strengthens the above relationship. Moreover, the informal institution (proxied by bank connection) weakens the association between the quality of environmental information disclosure and bank financing. Our results are valid after addressing the potential endogeneity between environmental information disclosure and bank financing and remain unchanged in various robustness tests. Our findings affirm the decision usefulness of corporate environmental information disclosure that can be used by companies as an effective strategy for obtaining bank financing and the ethical integrity of borrowers to banks as an important group of capital market participants.
Effect of Jiangan‐Jiangzhi Pill on Gut Microbiota and Chronic Inflammatory Response in Rats with Non‐Alcoholic Fatty Liver
Authors: Zhao Zeyu , Wang Jing , Ren Wei , Bian Yuhong , Wang Yixi , Wang Li , Guo Liying , Lei Jinyan , Jia Jianwei , Miao Jing
Published: March 2022

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease with high rates of occurrence. Research has found that NAFLD patients experience varying degrees of intestinal flora imbalance. There is evidence that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) positively regulates imbalances in the gut microbiota caused by liver diseases. Jiangan‐Jiangzhi pill (JGJZ) is a common Chinese remedy that can treat NAFLD clinically. This article investigates how JGJZ affects NAFLD and assesses related changes in the intestinal flora. We established a NAFLD rat model by feeding them a high‐fat diet (HFD) and gave different interventions. After twelve weeks, the results revealed that JGJZ decreased the total cholesterol, triglyceride, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase in the serum of NAFLD rats. Histopathological staining demonstrated that JGJZ relieved cellular fat accumulation in the liver. Inflammatory cytokine levels (IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α) were down‐regulated. Analysis of 16S rRNA demonstrated that JGJZ changed the community compositional structure of gut microbiota, characterized by a decrease in the Firmicutes‐to‐Bacteroidetes ratio, and increased gut microbiota diversity and the abundance of dominant groups. Accordingly, our study illustrated that JGJZ exerted a better effect in treating HFD‐induced NAFLD, which may be closely related to ameliorating gut microbiota dysbiosis.
SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza viruses: Strategies to cope with coinfection and bioinformatics perspective
Authors: Ghaznavi Habib , Shirvaliloo Milad , Sargazi Saman , Mohammadghasemipour Zahra , Shams Zinat , Hesari Zahra , Shahraki Omolbanin , Nazarlou Ziba , Sheervalilou Roghayeh , Shirvalilou Sakine
Published: March 2022

Almost a century after the devastating pandemic of the Spanish flu, humankind is facing the relatively comparable global outbreak of COVID‐19. COVID‐19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 with an unprecedented transmission pattern. In the face of the recent repercussions of COVID‐19, many have argued that the clinical experience with influenza through the last century may have tremendous implications in the containment of this newly emerged viral disease. During the last 2 years, from the emergence of COVID‐19, tremendous advances have been made in diagnosing and treating coinfections. Several approved vaccines are available now for the primary prevention of COVID‐19 and specific treatments exist to alleviate symptoms. The present review article aims to discuss the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza A virus coinfection while delivering a bioinformatics‐based insight into this subject matter.
Mitral valve‐in‐valve and valve‐in‐ring procedures: Midterm outcomes in a French nationwide registry
Authors: Le Ruz Robin , Guérin Patrice , Leurent Guillaume , Leroux Lionel , Lefevre Thierry , Nejjari Mohammed , Champagnac Didier , Tchétché Didier , Lhermusier Thibault , Senage Thomas , Piriou Pierre‐Guillaume , Caussin Christophe , Delomez Maxence , Bonnet Guillaume , Favereau Xavier , Karam Nicole , Gerbay Antoine , Juthier Francis , Gilard Martine , Obadia Jean‐Francois , Iung Bernard , Manigold Thibaut
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Report contemporary outcomes in patients included in the Mitragister registry and treated with transcatheter mitral valve implantation for failed surgical annuloplasty rings or deteriorated bioprosthesis.

Background

Midterm survival rates have been reported, but little is known about contemporary morbimortality endpoints.

Methods

The primary safety outcome was the technical success rate. The primary efficacy composite endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular mortality and heart failure hospitalizations.

Results

From 2016 to 2021, 102 patients (median age: 81 [74;84] years, 61% female, Euroscore II 11.0% [7.8;16.0]) undergoing valve‐in‐valve (ViV; n = 89) or valve‐in‐ring (ViR; n = 13) procedures were consecutively included. At baseline, ViR group patients had worse left ventricular ejection fraction (50% vs. 60%; p = 0.004) and more frequently severe regurgitation (46% vs. 15%; p = 0.014). The primary safety outcome was 95%: 77% and 98% in the ViR and ViV populations, respectively, (p = 0.014). At intermediate follow‐up (6–12 months) clinical improvement was notable, 88% of the patients were in NYHA class ≤ II (vs. 25% at baseline; p < 0.001). At a mean follow‐up of 17.1 ± 11.0 months, the primary efficacy composite reached 27%. By multivariate analysis, paravalvular leak (PVL) was the only independent predictor (hazard ratio: 2.39, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–5.29; p = 0.031) while ViR was not found statistically associated (p = 0.456).

Conclusions

This study confirms the safety and efficacy of the mitral ViV procedure. ViR patients appear at higher risk of procedural complications. The presence of PVL could be associated with markedly worse midterm prognosis. Whatever the intervention, procedural strategies to reduce PVL incidence remain to be assessed to prevent latter adverse outcomes.
Fever of unknown origin as the first presentation of candida vertebral osteomyelitis: A case report
Authors: Farahzadi Athena , Mahmoodzadeh Habibollah
Published: March 2022

Candida osteomyelitis is a rare disorder; however, its incidence has drastically risen especially during the last 3 decades. Diagnosis is usually delayed due to nonspecific symptoms. Thus, its management would not be performed at the proper time, which leads to increased morbidity. The optimal management of candida osteomyelitis is not clearly defined but most recommendations advise prolonged antifungal therapy in addition to surgery. Here, we report candida osteomyelitis in a patient with a history of pancreatic adenocarcinoma that presented with prolonged FUO as her first presentation. Fortunately, her symptoms completely resolved after prolonged medical therapy despite delay diagnosis due to her unusual presentation. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report of candida vertebra osteomyelitis that presents with prolonged FUO as the first presentation.
Fatal epistaxis in a case of common variable immunodeficiency: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Barber Lucy , Jordan Anthony , Douglas Richard
Published: March 2022

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency disease. We present a case of a patient with CVID complicated by rhinosinusitis with granulomatous inflammation. Treatment for this patient was challenging with regards recognition of the granulomatous manifestation as well as treatment in the setting immunodeficiency and was ultimately unsuccessful.
A Separator Modified with Rutile Titania and Three‐Dimensional Interconnected Graphene‐Like Carbon for Advanced Li−S Batteries
Authors: Xia Shuang , Huang Wen , Yan Wenqi , Yuan Xinhai , Chen Xi , Liu Lili , Fu Lijun , Zhu Yusong , Huang Qinhong , Wu Yuping , van Ree Teunis , Holze Rudolf
Published: March 2022

As an advanced energy‐storage system, Li−S batteries have attracted much attention, but there is still a series of problems hindering their commercialization, such as the ‘shuttle effect’ and corrosion of lithium anodes. To alleviate these two important problems simultaneously, we modified the separators with spherical rutile TiO2 with oxygen vacancies (abbreviated OT) and three‐dimensional interconnected graphene‐like carbon (abbreviated GC) for advanced Li−S batteries to improve the electrochemical performance. The modified separators (abbreviation OTCD) have low charge transfer impedance, a catalytic effect on polysulfides, and a barrier effect on polysulfides, which can suppress the ‘shuttle effect’ and prevents the corrosion of lithium anodes in Li−S batteries. The as‐prepared Li−S batteries show good cycling stability for 250 cycles with 0.048 % capacity decay per cycle at 1 C. Moreover, the SEM images of lithium anodes after 50 cycles showed that the lithium anodes were uncorroded. This work provides a practical and effective reference for the advanced Li−S batteries.
Metal‐Free Photochemical Olefin Isomerization of Unsaturated Ketones via 1,5‐Hydrogen Atom Transfer
Authors: Manikandan Rajendran , Phatake Ravindra S. , Lemcoff N. Gabriel
Published: March 2022

The photochemical isomerization of α,β‐ to β,γ‐unsaturated ketones through a 1,5‐hydrogen atom transfer mechanism under mild conditions with high efficiency and selectivity is reported. The reaction is carried out in the absence of metal catalysts or other additives, and its stereoselectivity can be tuned by selecting appropriate solvent mixtures. The reaction‘s scope and tolerance towards functional groups, including light‐sensitive halogens, free acids and alcohols, were studied, providing reliable access to a wide variety of β,γ‐unsaturated ketones. This methodology details the deconjugation of a wide range of unsaturated ketones and, when combined with olefin metathesis, provides an efficient process for either dehomologation or one‐carbon double‐bond migration of terminal alkenes.
3‐Dimensional Scanning of Entire Unit Cells in Single Nanoparticles.
Authors: Heo Junyoung , Kang Dohun , Kim Sungin , Chun Hoje , Han Byungchan , Hyo Kim Byung , Park Jungwon
Published: March 2022

Properties of nanomaterials such as optical, electrical, and chemical properties are strongly correlated with lattice symmetry, making characterization of lattice symmetry essential. We introduce a symmetry analysis method using 3D atomic coordinates obtained by Brownian one‐particle 3D reconstruction. The method allows direct and quantitative analysis of symmetrical properties and delivers local structural characteristics of individual platinum (Pt) nanoparticles in unit‐cell level. Local structural deformations of the Pt nanoparticles such as lattice distortion and internal symmetry breakage are demonstrated, revealing that the crystal structure of sub‐3 nm Pt nanoparticles generally maintains FCC crystallinity and exhibits localized deviation from their bulk counterpart.
ON/OFF Spiroconjugation through Peripheral Functionalization: Impact on the Reactivity and Chiroptical Properties of Spirobifluorenes
Authors: Ozcelik Ani , Aranda Daniel , Pereira‐Cameselle Raquel , Talavera María , Covelo Berta , Santoro Fabrizio , Peña‐Gallego Ángeles , Alonso‐Gómez J. Lorenzo
Published: March 2022

Spirobifluorenes are an important class of spiro compounds frequently used in the field of organic electronics. However, harnessing spiroconjugation to obtain high‐performance in such structural motifs remains unexplored. We herein propose that peripheral functionalization may serve as a useful tool to control spiroconjugation in an ON/OFF manner on both chemical reactivity and photophysical properties. In particular, the ratio of mono‐ and di‐functionalized spirobifluorenes found experimentally during their synthesis were found to be 3/2, 7/2, and 12/2 for phenyl, nitro‐phenyl and amino‐phenyl analogues, respectively. These remarkable reactivity differences correlate with the spiroconjugation character evaluated theoretically at the CAM‐B3LYP/6‐31G(d,p) level of theory. Additionally, comparison of experimental and predicted optical and chiroptical responses shows that spiroconjugated molecular orbitals have a significant or negligible involvement on the main electronic transitions depending on the peripheral functionality of the spirobifluorene.
A novel congestion control approach for optimal routing in Wireless Adhoc Networks
Authors: S Kanthimathi , Prathuri Jhansi Rani
Published: March 2022

Congestion is a demanding issue in WANET owing to dynamic routing and resource constraints. Congestion controlling (CC) is a huge concern in attaining equality among e2e flow control and optimal utilization of network resources. In WANET, with distributed resources, if numerous senders compete for a similar bandwidth link, the data rates should be adjusted to avoid network overload that leads to compromises in QoS. This paper introduces a new routing approach with CC model that deployed MAODV for WANETs. Initially, the destination and source nodes are initialized, and subsequently, the MAODV find out the various routing path. Consequently, SGD‐DLNN recognizes all nodes' congestion status in revealed paths. Further, the MAODV assigns traffic in optimal congestion‐less paths if congestion occurs. Here, the black widow‐mutated cat swarm (BWM‐CS) model is deployed to choose the optimal paths based on traffic load density, life span of path, traffic load, remaining energy, link cost, and path distance. Eventually, the advantage of the suggested model is proven.
A mixed‐studies systematic review of the experiences of body image, disordered eating, and eating disorders during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Schneider Jekaterina , Pegram Georgina , Gibson Benjamin , Talamonti Deborah , Tinoco Aline , Craddock Nadia , Matheson Emily , Forshaw Mark
Published: March 2022

Objectives

This systematic review assessed the influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated restrictions on body image, disordered eating (DE), and eating disorder outcomes.

Methods

After registration on PROSPERO, a search was conducted for papers published between December 1, 2019 and August 1, 2021, using the databases PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, CINAHL Plus, AMED, MEDLINE, ERIC, EMBASE, Wiley, and ProQuest (dissertations and theses).

Results

Data from 75 qualitative, quantitative, and mixed‐methods studies were synthesized using a convergent integrated approach and presented narratively within four themes: (1) disruptions due to the COVID‐19 pandemic; (2) variability in the improvement or exacerbation of symptoms; (3) factors associated with body image and DE outcomes; (4) unique challenges for marginalized and underrepresented groups. Disruptions due to the pandemic included social and functional restrictions. Although most studies reported a worsening of concerns, some participants also reported symptom improvement or no change as a result of the pandemic. Factors associated with worse outcomes included psychological, individual, social, and eating disorder‐related variables. Individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ reported unique concerns during COVID‐19.

Discussion

There is large variability in individuals' responses to COVID‐19 and limited research exploring the effect of the pandemic on body image, DE, and eating disorder outcomes using longitudinal and experimental study designs. In addition, further research is required to investigate the effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on body image and eating concerns among minoritized, racialized, underrepresented, or otherwise marginalized participants. Based on the findings of this review, we make recommendations for individuals, researchers, clinicians, and public health messaging.

Public Significance

This review of 75 studies highlights the widespread negative impacts that the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated restrictions have had on body image and disordered eating outcomes. It also identifies considerable variations in both the improvement and exacerbation of said outcomes that individuals, researchers, clinicians, and other public health professionals should be mindful of if we are to ensure that vulnerable people get the tailored support they require.
Tree biomass allocation differs by mycorrhizal association
Authors: Jevon Fiona V. , Lang Ashley K.
Published: March 2022

Tree biomass allocation to leaves, roots, and wood affects the residence time of carbon in forests, with potentially dramatic implications for ecosystem carbon storage. However, drivers of tree biomass allocation remain poorly quantified. Using a combination of global data sets, we tested the relative importance of climate, leaf habit, and tree mycorrhizal associations on biomass allocation. We show that trees that associate with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi allocate roughly 4% more of their biomass to root tissue than trees that associate with ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi. Further, the effect of mycorrhizal association on root biomass allocation was greater than that of climate and similar in magnitude to that of leaf habit (evergreen vs. deciduous). These patterns in whole‐plant biomass allocation are likely due to differences in carbon investment toward root versus fungal tissues, where trees with AM fungi favor root production while trees with ECM fungi favor fungal tissue production. These results suggest that considering tree mycorrhizal associations could improve our understanding of ecosystem carbon storage in terrestrial biosphere models: specifically, that greater within‐tree allocation to root biomass in AM‐associated tree species may contribute to stable soil carbon pools in forests dominated by AM fungi.
Small herbivores with big impacts: Tundra voles (Microtus oeconomus) alter post‐fire ecosystem dynamics
Authors: Steketee Jess K. , Rocha Adrian V. , Gough Laura , Griffin Kevin L. , Klupar Ian , An Ruby , Williamson Nicole , Rowe Rebecca J.
Published: March 2022

Fire is an important ecological disturbance that can reset ecosystems and initiate changes in plant community composition, ecosystem biogeochemistry, and primary productivity. As herbivores rely on primary producers for food, changes in vegetation may alter plant–herbivore interactions with important—but often unexplored—feedbacks to ecosystems. Here we examined the impact of post‐fire changes in plant community composition and structure on habitat suitability and rodent herbivore activity in response to a large, severe, and unprecedented fire in northern Alaskan tundra. In moist acidic tundra where the fire occurred, tundra voles (Microtus oeconomus) are the dominant herbivore and rely on the tussock forming sedge Eriophorum vaginatum for both food and nesting material. Tundra voles were 10 times more abundant at the burned site compared with nearby unburned tundra 7‐12 years after the fire. Fire increased the habitat suitability for voles by increasing plant productivity and biomass, food quality, and cover through both taller vegetation and increased microtopography. As a result of elevated vole abundance, Eriophorum mortality caused by vole herbivory was two orders of magnitude higher than natural mortality and approached the magnitude of the mortality rate resulting directly from the fire. These findings suggest that post‐fire increases in herbivore pressure on Eriophorum could, in turn, disrupt graminoid recovery and enhance shrub encroachment. Tundra state transitions from graminoid to shrub dominated are also evident following other disturbances and fertilization experiments, suggesting that as Arctic temperatures rise, greater available nutrients and increased frequencies of large‐scale disturbances may also alter plant–animal interactions with cascading impacts on plant communities and ecosystem function.
Impact of bridging with left ventricular assist device on right ventricular function following heart transplantation
Authors: Ingvarsson Annika , Gjesdal Grunde , Borgenvik Saeideh , Werther Evaldsson Anna , Waktare Johan , Braun Oscar , Smith Gustav J. , Roijer Anders , Rådegran Göran , Meurling Carl
Published: March 2022

Aims

Patients awaiting orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) can be bridged utilizing a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) that reduces left ventricular filling pressures, decreases pulmonary artery wedge pressure, and maintains adequate cardiac output. This study set out to examine the poorly investigated area of if and how pre‐treatment with LVAD impacts right ventricular (RV) function following OHT.

Methods and results

We prospectively evaluated 59 (LVAD n = 20) consecutive OHT patients. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed in conjunction with right heart catheterization (RHC) at 1, 6, and 12 months after OHT. RV function TTE‐parameters included tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), systolic tissue velocity (S′), fractional area change, two‐dimensional RV global longitudinal strain and longitudinal strain from the RV lateral wall (RVfree). At 1 month after OHT, the LVAD group had significantly better longitudinal RV function than the non‐LVAD group: TAPSE (15 ± 3 mm vs. 12 ± 2 mm, P < 0.001), RV global longitudinal strain (−19.8 ± 2.1% vs. −14.3 ± 2.8%, P < 0.001), and RVfree (−19.8 ± 2.3% vs. −14.1 ± 2.9%, P < 0.001). At this time point, pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was also lower [1.2 ± 0.4 Wood Units (WU) vs. 1.6 ± 0.6 WU, P < 0.05] in the LVAD group compared with the non‐LVAD group. At 6 and 12 months, no difference was detected in any of the TTE and RHC measured parameters between the two groups. Between 1 and 12 months, all parameters of RV function improved significantly in the non‐LVAD group but remained unaltered in the LVAD group.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that pre‐treatment with LVAD decreases PVR and is associated with significantly better RV function early following OHT. During the first year following transplantation, RV function progressively improved in the non‐LVAD group such that at 6 and 12 months, no difference in RV function was detected between the groups.
Haemodynamic changes of interatrial shunting devices for heart failure: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yi Tieci , Li Min , Fan Fangfang , Qiu Lin , Wang Zhi , Weng Haoyu , Shang Xiaoke , Zhang Changdong , Ma Wei , Zhang Yan , Huo Yong
Published: March 2022

Aims

To assess the efficacy and safety, primarily in relation to the haemodynamic effects, of interatrial shunting devices (ISD) for the treatment of heart failure (HF), we conducted a systematic review and a meta‐analysis.

Methods and results

We used the MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed databases to identify clinical studies (published to 4 August 2021) that evaluated the effect of ISD on HF. The primary endpoint was defined as changes in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP). Secondary endpoints included (i) other haemodynamic indexes, including cardiac output (CO), right atrial pressure (RAP), and mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) by right heart catheterization, and (ii) change from baseline in 6 min walk distance (6MWD). After a literature search and detailed evaluation, six trials enrolling a total of 203 individuals were included in the quantitative analysis. Pooled analyses showed that after ISD implantation, PCWP decreased by a mean 3.10 mmHg [95% confidence interval (CI) −4.56 to −1.64; I2 = 0%; P < 0.0001]. Overall, CO increased by 0.77 L/min (95% CI 0.02 to 1.52; P = 0.04; I2 = 82%), but there were no significant changes in RAP or mPAP. The mean 6MWD increased by 32.33 m (95% CI 10.74 to 53.92; P = 0.003; I2 = 0) after ISD implantation.

Conclusions

Interatrial shunting device can effectively reduce PCWP, increase CO and 6MWD, and has no obvious adverse effects on the right heart and pulmonary pressure. Studies with larger sample size and longer follow‐up time are needed for further verification.
Fulminant myocarditis caused by immune checkpoint inhibitor: a case report and possible treatment inspiration
Authors: Liu Zhijie , Fan Yiming , Guo Jun , Bian Ning , Chen Dongdong
Published: March 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a new hope for many patients with advanced cancer by blocking tumour immune evasion. However, with the widespread use of ICIs, immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) have also been discovered and reported increasingly. Immune‐related myocarditis, the most dangerous one of irAEs, still has high mortality in the context of the current treatment. We report the case of a 60‐year‐old female with fulminant myocarditis induced by ICIs, which caused her to experience frequent ventricular arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation and heart failure. She was successfully treated with current mainstream therapies for immune‐related myocarditis and additional treatment of sacubitril–valsartan and dapagliflozin. The intriguing observation that the patient condition recovered relatively rapidly in this case shows a possible treatment inspiration, which may be helpful for treating ICIs‐associated myocarditis and improving cancer patients' clinical prognosis.
Straightforward Syntheses of Phytoprostanes and Dihomo‐phytoprostanes‐Non‐enzymatic Metabolites of γ‐Linolenic, Dihomo‐γ‐linolenic and Stearidonic Acids
Authors: Fischer Pauline , Bultel‐Poncé Valérie , Guy Alexandre , Gonzales Ilyana , Conde Pierre‐Alexis , Galano Jean‐Marie , Durand Thierry , Oger Camille
Published: March 2022

γ‐Linolenic (GLA; C18 : 3 n‐6), dihomo‐γ‐linolenic (DGLA; C20 : 3 n‐6) and stearidonic (SDA; C18 : 4 n‐3) acids are found in several botanic and marine oils and are sustainable sources of omega‐6 and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). During oxidative stress (pollution, UV, hydric or nutrient stress), lipid peroxidation occurred to produce non‐enzymatic oxylipins named phytoprostanes (PhytoPs). We report herein the first syntheses of six non‐enzymatic PUFA metabolites originated from GLA, DGLA and SDA peroxidation. Our syntheses follow a straightforward synthetic pathway from enantiopure common intermediates (lactol or monoacetates), further used Horner‐Wadsworth‐Emmons and Wittig reactions to set up the side chains, and Corey‐Bakshi‐Shibata enantioselective reduction. Our strategy once again proved to be highly efficient as the compounds were obtained after only 4 to 12 consecutive steps, starting from previously prepared intermediates, and in a range from 6.5 to 41.5 % yield.
Efficient Synthesis of Azido Sugars Using Fluorosulfuryl Azide Diazotransfer Reagent**
Authors: Kofsky Joshua M. , Daskhan Gour C. , Macauley Matthew S. , Capicciotti Chantelle J.
Published: March 2022

Azide‐containing sugars are important tools for the synthesis of biologically relevant 1,2‐cis glycosides and for bioconjugation chemistry. Previous strategies to install a non‐participating C2‐azido functionality use harsh conditions and long reaction times. Herein, we report the synthesis of azido sugars using fluorosulfuryl azide (FSO2N3; 1) with a Cu(II) catalyst as a safe and efficient diazotransfer reagent. Common hexosamine substrates were converted to 2‐azido‐2‐deoxy sugars in less than 5 minutes in quantitative yield. Glycosyl donors with orthogonal protecting groups were readily prepared from these azido sugars with good overall yield and a single column purification. The diazotransfer protocol was also efficiently applied to other amino sugar derivatives, including aminoglycosides, substrates with amine‐containing linkers, and it is orthogonal to O‐sulfation. This optimized method will expand access to important non‐participating C2‐azido protecting groups and other azido sugar derivatives.