bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Práticas de manipulação e armazenamento de pescado na região metropolitana de Natal
Authors: Santana Fábio Magno da Silva , Lucena Mayra Yasmin Pereira
Published: March 2023

As Boas Práticas são essenciais na manipulação do pescado, pois sem elas o alimento pode se tornar um vetor de doenças e provocar as temidas DTA (Doenças Transmitidas por Alimentos). Por isso, para evitar que a saúde de pessoas seja afetada no ato do contato com o alimento e para alcançar o desafio número 3 do desenvolvimento sustentável da ONU (saúde e bem-estar), é fundamental que a população como um todo tenha conhecimento acerca das Boas Práticas, pratique-as e as cobre nos locais onde há manipulação de pescado. Para alcançar esse objetivo, planejava-se realizar oficinas com feirantes, in situ, sobre como deve ser a aplicação das Boas Práticas de Manipulação. Entretanto, por razão da pandemia de Covid-19, essa atividade não se mostrou possível. Então, fez-se uma pesquisa com o propósito de mensurar o quanto a população da região metropolitana de Natal é carente quando se trata de conhecimento sobre a manipulação de alimentos. Além disso, materiais foram enviados para os contribuintes da pesquisa para que essas pessoas pudessem aprender mais sobre como deve ser a correta manipulação do pescado, sua importância e também pudessem se tornar antenas de transmissão desse conteúdo nas suas comunidades.
Análise da qualidade da água do Lago UHE Lajeado em Porto Nacional/TO
Authors: Silva Rafaela Brandão da , Balduíno Ângelo Ricardo
Published: March 2023

Hoje, um dos principais problemas que enfrentamos é a poluição dos recursos hídricos, o que provoca a perda da qualidade da água. O monitoramento de sua qualidade é fundamental para a obtenção de informações físicas, químicas, biológicas e ecológicas dos recursos hídricos por meio de amostragem. A água, vital para a manutenção da vida, é um recurso em constante crise, principalmente pela escassez causada pela poluição dos corpos hídricos e pelo aumento do consumo. Neste estudo de caso, a análise da qualidade da água foi monitorada através do padrão de qualidade da água - IQA NSF, que está localizado no Lago da UHE Lajeado no Município de Porto Nacional - TO. A importância disso é que o local é um novo ponto para a quantidade de água disponível para uso público logo espera definir se o corpo hídrico comtempla os padrões de qualidade da água – IQA NSF. A qualidade da água foi avaliada por meio da Resolução CONAMA nº 357/2005 e dos limites permitidos pela NSF – National Sanitation Fundation, que foi avaliado em 9 parâmetros que possibilitaram o cálculo do IQA – Índice de Qualidade da Água.
Educação Ambiental e a poluição por resíduos sólidos: análise literária sobre estratégias de preservação ambiental
Authors: Macedo Maria de Fátima Ramos , Egidio Jonatha Anderson Fraga , Nascimento Barbara Proença do
Published: March 2023

Os resíduos sólidos são materiais produzidos por meio de atividades humanas com potencial de causar prejuízos à saúde pública e também à integridade do meio ambiente. Esses resíduos podem poluir ecossistemas aquáticos e terrestres, prejudicando o ciclo de vida dos animais, além de causar problemas sérios ambientais. Por este motivo, observa-se a necessidade de elaborar estratégias que visem a diminuição da produção desse tipo de resíduo e também a reciclagem dos resíduos já existentes na  natureza. O objetivo desta pesquisa bibliográfica é descrever as principais ações e estratégias utilizadas atualmente pela sociedade no combate à poluição causada por resíduos sólidos. Dentre as estratégias identificadas, ações de Educação Ambiental, reaproveitamento de material, conscientização da população e fiscalização são as principais estratégias de combate e minimização do impacto causado pelos resíduos sólidos atualmente. Assim, podemos concluir que existem diversas ações sendo realizadas atualmente em favor do meio ambiente visando a diminuição dos impactos causados por resíduos sólidos. No entanto, tais ações precisam ter suas atividades mais ampliadas para envolver e alcançar um maior número de pessoas.
Mitochondrial redox adaptations enable alternative aspartate synthesis in SDH-deficient cells
Authors: Hart Madeleine L , Quon Evan , Vigil Anna-Lena BG , Engstrom Ian A , Newsom Oliver J , Davidsen Kristian , Hoellerbauer Pia , Carlisle Samantha M , Sullivan Lucas B
Published: March 2023

The oxidative tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is a central mitochondrial pathway integrating catabolic conversions of NAD +to NADH and anabolic production of aspartate, a key amino acid for cell proliferation. Several TCA cycle components are implicated in tumorigenesis, including loss-of-function mutations in subunits of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), also known as complex II of the electron transport chain (ETC), but mechanistic understanding of how proliferating cells tolerate the metabolic defects of SDH loss is still lacking. Here, we identify that SDH supports human cell proliferation through aspartate synthesis but, unlike other ETC impairments, the effects of SDH inhibition are not ameliorated by electron acceptor supplementation. Interestingly, we find aspartate production and cell proliferation are restored to SDH-impaired cells by concomitant inhibition of ETC complex I (CI). We determine that the benefits of CI inhibition in this context depend on decreasing mitochondrial NAD+/NADH, which drives SDH-independent aspartate production through pyruvate carboxylation and reductive carboxylation of glutamine. We also find that genetic loss or restoration of SDH selects for cells with concordant CI activity, establishing distinct modalities of mitochondrial metabolism for maintaining aspartate synthesis. These data therefore identify a metabolically beneficial mechanism for CI loss in proliferating cells and reveal how compartmentalized redox changes can impact cellular fitness.
A mobile target
Authors: Oliveira de Santana Carolina , Spealman Pieter , Perron Gabriel G
Published: March 2023

The global spread of antibiotic resistance could be due to a number of factors, and not just the overuse of antibiotics in agriculture and medicine as previously thought.
Small worms of Sthenelanellinae, Pholoinae and Pisioninae (Annelida, Sigalionidae) from the Tropical Northwestern Atlantic
Authors: Cruz-Gómez Christopher
Published: March 2023

The family Sigalionidae is characterized, among other features, by including scale worms with large bodies. However, among sigalionids, the subfamilies Sthenelanellinae, Pholoinae, and Pisioninae stand out by their small representatives with few segments and fragile bodies. In the Tropical Northwestern Atlantic, which includes part of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, these subfamilies have been rarely studied, with few species recorded, and questionable records. This contribution aims to improve the knowledge of sthenelanellins, pholoins, and pisionins in the region through a faunistic study based on material from two Mexican scientific collections: the Reference Collection of Laboratorio de Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático (BIOMARCCA) and the Reference Collection of Benthos (ECOSUR) of El Colegio de la Frontera Sur. Pisione wolfi is confirmed from the Tropical Northwestern Atlantic, and three new species are described: Sthenelanella pechi sp. nov., S. sarae sp. nov. and Taylorpholoe anabelae sp. nov. A key to all Sthenelanella and Taylorpholoe species is also included.
Insecticidal effect of Jatropha curcas L. Oil on Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera:Noctuidae)
Authors: Tchegueni Matotiloa , Agboka Komi , Tchabi Atti , Kolani Lankondjoa , Tchao Manguilibè , Tounou Agbéko K.
Published: March 2023

The study was undertaken to contribute to the sustainable management of Spodoptera frugiperda Smith on maize. It aims to evaluate the insecticidal efficacy of Jatropha curcas L. oil on S. frugiperda larvae. Two concentrations of J. curcas oil (10 and 20ml.l-1) were tested by ingestion on the six larval stages of S. frugiperda grouped into (L1-2 (3-5 days of age); L3-4 (6-8 days of age); L5-6 (>10 days of age)). The insecticidal efficacy of the oil was determined in the laboratory and the phytosanitary protection tests on maize were carried out in the field. In the laboratory, the concentration of 10 ml.l-1 with/without emulsifier caused a mortality rate of (87-92%) at stage L1-2, (51-58%) at stage L3-4, and (57- 68%) at L5-6 stage after 72 hours of ingestion. Concentration of 20 ml.l-1 caused over 70% mortality whether applied with or without an emulsifier at all stages. Adult emergence was nil for L1-2 stages at 20 ml.l-1 and <10% for the other stages. Plots subjected to jatropha oil treatments (2l.ha-1 and 4l.ha-1 with or without emulsifier) were less infested like the plots treated with Emamectine benzoate (Emacot) compared to control plots untreated. The present results indicated that jatropha oil has insecticidal potential against S. frugiperda.
Cryptosporidiosis and Associated Risk Factors among Children Attending Paediatric Hospitals in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Ani Ezinne G. , Umeanaeto Pauline U. , Irikannu Kindness C. , Ikpo Anthea U.
Published: March 2023

Cryptosporidiosis is a zoonotic disease caused by infection with protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium. It is associated with moderate to severe diarrhoea which may eventually lead to death. The parasite impedes growth and development of affected children. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess cryptosporidiosis and the associated risk factors among children aged 0-15years attending selected paediatric hospitals in Enugu Metropolis between November 2021 and August 2022. A total of five hundred and fifty stool samples were examined for oocysts of Cryptosporidium species using Formol Ethyl-Acetate sedimentation and modified Ziehl Neelsen’s staining techniques. The overall prevalence of the parasite was 14.4% (79/550). Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital recorded the highest prevalence 32(25.6%) of Cryptosporidium species while St. Patrick Hospital recorded the least 1(1.1%). Public hospitals recorded more infections than private hospitals. The age group ≤ 5years 43(15.8%) recorded the highest prevalence. Males 52(17.1%) were more infected than females 27(10.98%), which was not significant (P>0.05). Children whose parents/caregivers had only primary education 11(26.8%), has the highest prevalence while those whose parents/caregivers had tertiary education 17(8.9%), has the least. Children whose parents/caregivers were farming has the highest prevalence 9(25.0%), while children of civil servants, 40(12.4%) has the least which was not significant (P>0.05). Children living in multifamily residences 48(15.2%) had higher prevalence than those living in private homes, 2(6.3%). Other protozoan parasites identified in the study were Entamoeba histolytica 88(16.1%) and Giardia lamblia 69(12.5%). There were co-infections of Cryptosporidium and Entamoeba histolytica 27(4.9%), Cryptosporidium and Giardia lamblia 21(4.3%) which was not significant (P>0.05). Intervention through health education on good hygiene habits, and provision of clean water and proper disposal of faeces will help reduce cryptosporidiosis among children.
Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Foliar Organic Nutrition on Yield and Economics of Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Karthik Elukur , Singh Rajesh
Published: March 2023

A field experiment was conducted during summer season of 2022 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (UP) on soil with sandy loam in texture to investigate the effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Foliar Organic Nutrition on growth and yield of Zaid Groundnut. The treatments consist of three Irrigation Schedulings viz., I1: 3 Irrigations (25,45,70 DAS), I2: 2 Irrigations (25,45 DAS), I3: 2 Irrigations (25,70 DAS) and three Foliar Organic Nutrition Comprising of F1 – Panchagavya at 3%, F2 – Jeevamrutha at 3%, F3 – Panchamrutha at 3% whose effect is observed on Groundnut (var. Kadiri-6). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with Ten treatments replicated thrice. The treatment with application of 3 Irrigations (25,45,70 DAS) + panchagavya-3% recorded significantly higher number of pods per plant (20.33), number of kernels per pod (2.47), seed index (39.84 g), pod yield (2.85 t/ha), haulm yield (4.4 t/ha) gross returns (1,61,808.4 INR), net returns (1,08,262.20 INR) and B:C ratio (2.02) compared to other treatment combinations.
Effect of Temporal Variation in Mineralization of Nutrients through Sewage Sludge, Farm Yard Manure and Vermicompost in Soil
Authors: Maurya Shubham , Arya Kuwar Yeshvir , Verma S. K. , Chahal Rashav , Milan Anand , Dhakal Dharmendra , Chhetri Navraj Shahani
Published: March 2023

Soil amendment by organic matter (O.M.) has been widely accepted as an efficient nutrient-management technique in agriculture. The study was conducted as pot culture experiment at the Rajiv Gandhi South Campus, Barkachha Banaras Hindu University (B.H.U.) Mirzapur, which is located in the Vindhyan zone of Mirzapur district at 25º 10” latitude, 82º 37” longitude with an altitude of 427 meters above the sea level. The soils of the study region are mostly having poor fertility and shallow depth. Different sources of organic manures Sewage Sludge (S.S), Farm Yard Manure (FYM) and Vermi-Compost (V.C.) with different doses (10, 20 and 30 grams) were applied in pot along with soil and were incubated for 90 days. Required amount of water was added to soil in order to keep it moist as and when required. pH, electrical conductivity(E.C) , O.M. and nutrient content (N, P, K and S) had shown significant changes due to different treatments applied in soil. Applications of organic amendments in this study indicated considerable changes in the basic soil physio-chemical properties, different levels of available nutrient and their release pattern. With increase in doses of S.S and V.C. soil pH also increased but, it was decreased with increase in doses of FYM. Increase in the dose of S.S., F.Y.M. and V.C. had increased the E.C. and O.M. of soil. The available N content decreased with increase in the incubation interval. The available P increased from 30 Days After Incubation (DAI) to 60 DAI but it decreased at 90 DAI. Availability of S content increased with increase in duration of incubation period.
Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes
Authors: Meena Rakesh Kumar , Kumar Sanjay
Published: March 2023

The present experiment was conducted entitled “ Variability, heritability and genetic advance in tomato((Solanum lycopersicum L.) genotypes” during kharif season of the year 2015-2016 at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya- Vihar, Rae Bareli Road, Lucknow-226025 (U.P.) India. The experiment used Randomized Block Design with three replications. The experimental materials consisting fifteen genotypes of tomato i.e. IIVR-Sel.-1, G-3, S. Naveen, DVRT-2, H-24, H-86, H-88, Pusa Sheetal, FLA 7171, Hisar Arun, Sel.-32, Flora Dode, Pusa Sadabhar, Kashi Vishesh and Kashi Amrit). The maximum plant height was found in the cross combination H-86 x Pusa Sadabahar and fruits per plant were found maximum in the cross combination IIVR-Sel.-1 x Kashi Amrit. The maximum fruit weight were found in the cross combination H-88 x Kashi Vishesh. The minimum Days to 50% flowering was found in the cross combination H-24 x Kashi Amrit .The minimum pericarp thickness was found in the cross combination IIVR-Sel. 1 x Kashi Vishesh. The highest TSS and Vitamin C were found in in the cross combination FLA 7171 x Kashi Vishesh and Pusa Sheetal x Kashi Vishesh.
The Impact of Delayed Separation of Plasma and Serum Sample on Glucose Parameter of Apparently Healthy Students of Federal School of Medical Laboratory Technology (Science), Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Abara Ukeme Sambo , Ibanga Imoh Etim , Nwapi Lucy Larrycarr , Ekpo Matina Imaobong , Akpan Hilary Andrew , Nkechi Obinna , Mkpani John Okon , Joseph Nduese Innocent , Konglam Nanle Ibrahim , Nkwocha Brendan Chukwueke , Dalen Manji Bala
Published: March 2023

Background: Estimation of glucose is very important in clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. The core aim of clinical laboratory service is to produce accurate, precise and reliable test results. The ability of laboratories to do this lies in the availability of well trained personnel, equipment, electricity etc. There has been a progressive increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Nigeria and the burden is expected to increase even further and the need for proper diagnosis cannot be overemphasized.

Aim: In this study we have tried to evaluate the impact of delayed separation of plasma and serum from cells and clot on glucose level.

Method: A total of fifty (50) randomly selected apparently healthy students of Federal School of Medical Laboratory Technology (Science), Jos were recruited as subject into this study. Blood samples were collected from each of the subjects into plain and anticoagulant bottles for serum and plasma respectively. An aliquot was analyzed within 10 minutes to obtain a baseline value where other values after timely delays were compared. The samples were spun but not separated from the cells/clot all through the period of the analysis. Blood glucose was determined by glucose Oxidase Colourimetric assay kit obtained from Randox Laboratories Limited United Kingdom. Data were analyzed using student’s t-test and performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0.

Results: Result obtained shows the mean and standard deviation of all timing for plasma and serum. In plasma it shows that the means±SD of 2, 4 and 24hours (5.2±0.7, 5.1±0.4 and 5.3±0.5 respectively) were not significantly varied when compared to the baseline (0 hour) value (5.3±0.5). That of baseline and 24 hours (5.3±0.5 and5.3±0.5 respectively) were significantly higher (P<0.001) than that of 48 and 74 hours (1.0±0.20 and 7±0.2 respectively). In serum, similar results were obtained.

Conclusion: In conclusion, where possible, it is advised that the established best practices in processing and analysis of samples be adhered to. However, the results of this work shows reasonably stable results for blood glucose determination could be obtained within 24 hours. Therefore, instead of discarding the sample, it might seem more appropriate that the sample be analyzed and the result reported indicating the number of hours delayed within 24hours.
Closing the Wealth Gap: A Two-Faceted Approach Theory
Authors: Angelov Ivaylo
Published: March 2023

This work provides a comprehensive overview of income inequality, including its background, relevant data, and different theories and perspectives on the issue. The focus is to shed light on this complex topic and provide a deeper understanding of the various arguments and evidence regarding income inequality. Theories range from classical economics viewing it as a necessary component of growth to more recent perspectives highlighting negative impacts such as slower growth, reduced mobility, and increased poverty. The work will examine these theories in detail and provide an in-depth analysis.
Comparative Quality Analysis of Three Marketed Melatonin Containing Products in Spain for the Improvement of Sleep
Authors: Olea Ana María Castilla , Algorta Jaime de , Arriaga-Ibañez Idoia , Villate-Beitia Ilia , Gallego Idoia , Defterali Çağla , Pedraz Jose-Luis
Published: March 2023

Background: Exogenous melatonin may effectively improve the sleep-wake cycle and sleep quality in subjects with age or disease related decrease in endogenous melatonin production or response. A controlled release melatonin-based medication, Circadin® has been developed and licensed for insomnia; in addition to several food supplements available on the market. However, the quality and release profile of these melatonin containing products may vary.

Aims: The current study aimed to compare three melatonin containing products, all of them marketed in Spain: a licensed medicine prolonged release tablet, Circadin® 2 mg, and two food supplements, Aquilea® 1,95mg and Oniria® 1,98 mg.

Materials and Methods: Three batches of each product were analyzed for melatonin content, inter-batch variability and dissolution profile.

Results: Our results confirm a large gap in quality control of the two melatonin containing food supplements, where Aquilea® and Oniria® showed poorer quality control as demonstrated by high variability between batches in melatonin content compared to Circadin®. Moreover, the extended release characteristics of Circadin® were evident in its profile, which exhibited an initial release of 70% at the 4-hour mark, followed by a consistent and sustained release lasting up to 8 hours.

Conclusion: In terms of the dissolution profile, only Circadin® provides the prolonged release profile as indicated in the specifications, with proven efficacy and safety for the improvement of sleep-onset, sleep maintenance and quality throughout the whole night.
Requirements for Meaningful Progress in the Therapy of Neuroendocrine Cancers
Authors: Labadie Brian W. , Fojo Antonio Tito
Published: March 2023

This Viewpoint discusses the role of data interpretation and clinical trial design in improving therapy of neuroendocrine cancers.
Monocular Vision Loss in a Patient With Earache and Night Sweats
Authors: Schimansky Sarah , Cross Gary , Mulhearn Ben
Published: March 2023

A 62-year-old patient had a history of painless vision loss in her right eye, right ear pain and fullness, sinus discomfort, nasal congestion without discharge, drenching night sweats, cramps in her quadriceps, and weight loss. Examination revealed normal tympanic membranes and a dry but otherwise normal nasal mucosa on flexible endoscopy. What would you do next?
The interplay between eosinophils and T cells in breast cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Zerdes Ioannis , Matikas Alexios , Foukakis Theodoros
Published: March 2023

Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has revolutionized cancer management for multiple tumor types, including breast cancer. However, not all patients respond to ICI, and unraveling the determinants and mechanisms of response still remains an unmet need. A recent study has uncovered the critical role of eosinophils in mediating immunotherapy effect in breast cancer, mainly by stimulating the activation of CD8+ T‐cells. Furthermore, the intratumoral eosinophil recruitment was directed by CD4+ T cells and the interleukins IL‐5 and IL‐33, thus providing the rationale for targeting eosinophils to enhance ICI response.
Thiohalomonadaceae fam. nov.
Authors: Sorokin Dimitry Y. , Merkel Alexander Y.
Published: March 2023

Thi.o.ha.lo.mo.nad.a.ce'ae N.L. fem. n.
Thiohalomonas
, the type genus of the family, ‐
aceae
ending to denote a family; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Thiohalomonadaceae
the
Thiohalomonas
family.

Proteobacteria / Gammaproteobacteria / Thiohalomonadales / Thiohalomonadaceae fam. nov.

The family
Thiohalomonadaceae
accommodates facultatively anaerobic, chemolithoautotrophic sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria. They utilize reduced sulfur compounds as the energy source and either oxygen or NO
x
as the electron acceptors. CO
2
is assimilated via the Calvin–Benson–Bassham cycle. The family is a member of the order
Thiohalomonadales
in the
Gammaproteobacteria
and consists of the genera
Thiohalomonas
and
Sulfurivermis
. The family‐level status was established by phylogenomic analysis based on 120 single‐copy conserved protein markers.

DNA G
+
C content (mol%)
: 58–65 (
T
m
of 3 species).

Type genus
:
Thiohalomonas
Sorokin et al. 2007
VP
.
Methylorubrum
Authors: Ardley Julie K. , Green Peter N.
Published: March 2023

Me.thy.lo.ru'brum. N.L. neut. n.
methylum
, the methyl radical; N.L. neut. n.
methyl‐
, pertaining to the methyl radical; L. masc. adj.
ruber
, red; N.L. neut. n.
Methylorubrum
, a red methyl radical utilizing organism.

Proteobacteria / Alphaproteobacteria / Rhizobiales / Methylobacteriaceae / Methylorubrum

The genus
Methylorubrum
was split from the genus
Methylobacterium
to accommodate a phylogenetically distinct group of strains within
Methylobacteriaceae
. Members of this genus are pink to red‐pigmented, facultatively methylotrophic bacteria that assimilate single carbon substrates via the serine cycle. All species form pink to orange‐red colonies on methanol salts media; colonies are circular, convex with entire margins, and 0.5–3.0 mm in diameter. Cells are non‐spore‐forming rods that occur singly, in pairs, or occasionally in rosettes and may be branched or pleomorphic. Gram‐negative with a Gram‐negative cell wall type but may stain Gram‐variable. Cells of most species are motile by means of a polar, subpolar, or lateral flagellum. Respiration is strictly aerobic. Oxidase and catalase positive, although the oxidase reaction is often weak, and urease positive. Mesophilic, chemoorganotrophic, and facultatively methylotrophic. All strains grow on methanol, and most on formaldehyde, formate, and methylated amines. None grow on methane. Some strains have weakly phototrophic growth. Grow on various multicarbon compounds, in particular organic acids, and utilize a comparatively narrow range of mono‐ and disaccharides. All species grow on methylamine, and glycine betaine (where tested); few grow on citrate. The major cellular fatty acid is C
18:1
ω7
c
. DNA G + C content is 64.4–70.5 (
T
m
). Widely distributed in nature, being found in soil, water and associated with plants, as colonizers of leaf surfaces, or as endophytes. They form part of the human microflora and are found, rarely, in clinical samples.
Methylorubrum extorquens
is the type species of this genus.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 64.4–70.5 (
T
m
).

Type species
:
Methylorubrum extorquens
Green and Ardley 2018
VP
.
Impaired gating of γ‐ and ε‐AChR respectively causes Escobar syndrome and fast‐channel myasthenia
Authors: Shen Xin‐Ming , Nakata Tomohiko , Mizuno Seiji , Imoto Issei , Selcen Duygu , Ohno Kinji , Engel Andrew G.
Published: March 2023

Objective

To dissect the kinetic defects of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) γ subunit variant in an incomplete form of the Escobar syndrome without pterygium and compare it with those of a variant of corresponding residue in the AChR ε subunit in a congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS).

Methods

Whole exome sequencing, α‐bungarotoxin binding assay, single channel patch‐clamp recordings, and maximum likelihood analysis of channel kinetics.

Results

We identified compound heterozygous variants in AChR γ and ε subunits in three Escobar syndrome (1–3) and three CMS patients (4–6), respectively. Each Escobar syndrome patient carries γP121R along with γV221Afs*44 in patients 1 and 2, and γY63* in patient 3. Three CMS patients share εP121T along with εR20W, εG‐8R, and εY15H in patients 4, 5, and 6, respectively. Surface expressions of γP121R‐ and εP121T‐AChR were 80% and 138% of the corresponding wild‐type AChR, whereas εR20W, εG‐8R, and εY15H reduced receptor expression to 27%, 35%, and 30% of wild‐type εAChR, respectively. γV221Afs*44 and γY63* are null variants. Thus, γP121R and εP121T determine the phenotype. γP121R and εP121T shorten channel opening burst duration to 28% and 18% of corresponding wild‐type AChR by reducing the channel gating equilibrium constant 44‐ and 63‐fold, respectively.

Interpretation

Similar impairment of channel gating efficiency of a corresponding P121 residue in the acetylcholine‐binding site of the AChR γ and ε subunits causes Escobar syndrome without pterygium and fast‐channel CMS, respectively, suggesting that therapy for the fast‐channel CMS will benefit Escobar syndrome.
Reconstructed Hierarchical Pore Structure of Porous SiC Ceramics Using Micro‐X‐Ray Computed Tomography
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Ning , Xing Fei , Zhang Junzhan , Su Shen , Shi Zongmo
Published: March 2023

Porous ceramics prepared by freeze casting are strongly appealing for filtration, separation, heat insulation, energy storage, and bioengineering. Herein, a unidirectionally freeze‐casting process is effectively adopted to fabricate porous silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics. The freezing rates of 0.29, 1.59, and 22.80 °C min−1 are presented at the bottom, which are simulated by finite‐element analysis. The pore structure characterize is systematically investigated through the 3D‐reconstructed micro‐X‐Ray computed tomography. Porous SiC ceramics with reasonable densification present the layer‐stacked texture and the hierarchical interconnected porous structure. The pore sizes are in the range of 30–40 μm. With the decreasing of freezing temperatures, the pore sizes reduce, while the number of channels increases. After sublimation of the fine ice crystals, there are a large number of channels (5–10 μm). The open porosities decrease from 82.3% to 78.2%, and a maximum compressive strength of 1.97 MPa is obtained. The pore size distribution is bimodal at the top and bottom of porous ceramics. The surface of porous SiC ceramics with obviously lamellar structure is connected.
Electric Current‐Assisted Sintering of 8YSZ: A Comparative Study of Ultrafast High‐Temperature Sintering and Flash Sintering
Authors: Wang Shufan , Mishra Tarini Prasad , Deng Yuanbin , Balice Luca , Kaletsch Anke , Bram Martin , Broeckmann Christoph
Published: March 2023

Electric current‐assisted sintering (ECAS) is a promising powder consolidation technique that can achieve short‐term sintering with high heating rates. Currently, main methods of performing ECAS are indirect heating of the powder compact in a conductive tool or direct heating with current flowing through the powder compact. Various influencing factors have been identified to explain the rapid densification during ECAS, such as ultrahigh heating rates, extra‐high temperatures, and electric field. However, the key consolidation‐enhancing factor is still under debate. This study aims at understanding the role of heating rate on the enhanced densification during ECAS of 8 mol% Y2O3‐stabilized ZrO2 (8YSZ) by experimental and numerical methods. Two different heating modes, ultrafast high‐temperature sintering (UHS, indirect heating) and flash sintering (FS, direct heating), are studied. The novel UHS technique is successfully applied to consolidate the 8YSZ samples. Additionally, finite element methods (FEM) combined with a constitutive model is adopted to predict the densification and grain growth. Furthermore, a comparison of UHS and FS is performed to investigate the thermal effect (heating rate) and athermal effect (electric field) individually. The results indicate that the high heating rate is the key factor of the rapid densification during UHS and FS of 8YSZ.
Multiphoton Lithography as a Promising Tool for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Greant Coralie , Van Durme Bo , Van Hoorick Jasper , Van Vlierberghe Sandra
Published: March 2023

Multiphoton lithography (MPL) is a powerful and useful structuring tool capable of generating 2D and 3D arbitrary micro‐ and nanometer features of various materials with high spatial resolution down to nm‐scale. This technology has received tremendous interest in tissue engineering and medical device manufacturing, due to its ability to print sophisticated structures, which is difficult to achieve through traditional printing methods. Thorough consideration of two‐photon photoinitiators (PIs) and photoreactive biomaterials is key to the fabrication of such complex 3D micro‐ and nanostructures. In the current review, different types of two‐photon PIs are discussed for their use in biomedical applications. Next, an overview of biomaterials (both natural and synthetic polymers) along with their crosslinking mechanisms is provided. Finally, biomedical applications exploiting MPL are presented, including photocleaving and photopatterning strategies, biomedical devices, tissue engineering, organoids, organ‐on‐chip, and photodynamic therapy. This review offers a helicopter view on the use of MPL technology in the biomedical field and defines the necessary considerations toward selection or design of PIs and photoreactive biomaterials to serve a multitude of biomedical applications.
True Nonvolatile High‐Speed DRAM Cells Using Tailored Ultrathin IGZO
Authors: Hu Qianlan , Gu Chengru , Li Qijun , Zhu Shenwu , Liu Shiyuan , Li Yu , Zhang Lining , Huang Ru , Wu Yanqing
Published: March 2023

Severe power consumption in the continuous scaling of Silicon‐based dynamic random access memory (DRAM) technology quests for a transistor technology with a much lower off‐state leakage current. Wide bandgap amorphous oxide semiconductors, especially indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide (IGZO) exhibit many orders of magnitude lower off‐state leakage. However, they are typically heavily n‐doped and require negative gate voltage to turn off, which prevents them from true nonvolatile operation. The efforts on doping density reduction typically result in mobility degradation and high Schottky barriers at contacts, causing severe degradation of on‐current and operation speed of the DRAM cells. Here, high‐speed true nonvolatile DRAM cells are successfully demonstrated by deep suppression of doping density in the IGZO channel using in situ oxygen ion beam treatment and ohmic contact engineering by inserting a thin In‐rich indium‐tin‐oxide (ITO) at contact regions. A record high on‐current of 40 µA µm−1 at a large positive threshold voltage of 1.78 V enables the first true nonvolatile DRAM with the fastest write speed of 10 ns and data retention up to 25 h under power interruption, five orders of magnitude higher than the previously projected values.
Energy‐Efficient Stable Hyperfluorescence Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Improved Color Purities and Ultrahigh Power Efficiencies Based on Low‐Polar Sensitizing Systems
Authors: Liu Hao , Fu Yan , Chen Jinke , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhao Zujin
Published: March 2023

Multi‐resonance (MR) molecules with thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) are emerging as promising candidates for high‐definition displays because of their narrow emission spectra. However, the electroluminescence (EL) efficiencies and spectra of MR‐TADF molecules are highly sensitive to hosts and sensitizers when applied to organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), and the highly polar environments in devices often lead to significantly broadened EL spectra. In this study, a proof‐of‐concept TADF sensitizer (BTDMAC‐XT) with low polarity, high steric hindrance, and concentration‐quenching free feature is constructed, which acts as a good emitter in doped and non‐doped OLEDs with high external quantum efficiencies (ηexts) of 26.7% and 29.3%, respectively. By combining BTDMAC‐XT with conventional low‐polarity hosts, low‐polarity sensitizing systems with a small carrier injection barrier and full exciton utilization are constructed for the MR‐TADF molecule BN2. Hyperfluorescence (HF) OLEDs employing the low‐polar sensitizing systems successfully improve the color quality of BN2 and afford an excellent ηext of 34.4%, a record‐high power efficiency of 166.3 lm W−1 and a long operational lifetime (LT50 = 40309 h) at an initial luminance of 100 cd m−2. These results provide instructive guidance for the sensitizer design and device optimization for energy‐efficient and stable HF‐OLEDs with high‐quality light.
Patterning Quantum Dots via Photolithography: A Review
Authors: Park Se Young , Lee Seongjae , Yang Jeehye , Kang Moon Sung
Published: March 2023

Pixelating patterns of red, green, and blue quantum dots (QDs) is a critical challenge for realizing high‐end displays with bright and vivid images for virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. Since QDs must be processed from a solution, their patterning process is completely different from the conventional techniques used in the organic light‐emitting diode and liquid crystal display industries. Although innovative QD patterning technologies are being developed, photopatterning based on the light‐induced chemical conversion of QD films is considered one of the most promising methods for forming micrometer‐scale QD patterns that satisfy the precision and fidelity required for commercialization. Moreover, the practical impact will be significant as it directly exploits mature photolithography technologies and facilities that are widely available in the semiconductor industry. This article reviews recent progress in the effort to form QD patterns via photolithography. The review begins with a general description of the photolithography process. Subsequently, different types of photolithographical methods applicable to QD patterning are introduced, followed by recent achievements using these methods in forming high‐resolution QD patterns. The paper also discusses prospects for future research directions.
Excitonic Effects in the Linear and Nonlinear Optical Response of Rhenium Disulfide Regulated by Re Vacancy
Authors: Zheng Xin‐Yu , Yao Cheng‐Bao , Li Hong‐Yu , Shi Bing‐Yin , Cao Hong‐Xu , Liu Yu , Liu Xiao‐Jie
Published: March 2023

Rhenium disulfide (ReS2) with low structural symmetry and highly spontaneous, exhibits some unique optical and electrical anisotropy properties for developing optoelectronic devices. This work studies the hydrothermal synthesis and the excitonic effects in the linear and nonlinear optical properties of 1T′ phase ReS2. The growth is controlled by adjusting experimental conditions, and its growth mechanism is revealed. The varying degrees of Re vacancy are characterized. They cause the growth direction of ReS2 nanosheets from lateral to agglomeration and the stacks into self‐assembly micro‐nanospheres. The density functional theory explains the electronic and bonding properties of Re vacancy, where the existent defects reduce the band gap and change the states density. Re vacancy increases the conductivity and results in the metallization of ReS2. The photoluminescence intensity of defect emission peak is negatively correlated with the defect level for the enriching vacancies. However, compared with intrinsic peak, it will increase monotonically with the number of bound excitons in defects. Furthermore, the nonlinear absorption properties are obtained by picosecond Z‐scan technique. By adjusting temperature, different degrees of saturation absorption and reverse saturation absorption characteristics appear due to the vacancy effect. The synthesized ReS2 has broad application in photodetectors and optical devices with optical amplitude limiting.
Highly Efficient, Low‐Dose, and Ultrafast Carbazole X‐Ray Scintillators
Authors: Chen Hongming , Lin Miao , Zhao Changbin , Zhang Dongwei , Zhang Yang , Chen Fuhai , Chen Yong , Fang Xin , Liao Qing , Meng Hong , Lin Meijin
Published: March 2023

Organic fluorescence scintillators, owing to the ultrafast response time, versatile chemical structures, low processing temperature, and low cost, are considered as one of the promising materials for medical diagnostics, radiation detection, and X‐ray astronomy. However, the low radioluminescence (RL) intensity and low sensitivity hinder their practical applications. In this work, a highly efficient organic fluorescent scintillator, 4,4′‐bis(9‐carbazolyl)biphenyl (CBP), is presented, exhibiting a high X‐ray RL intensity, narrow full width at half‐maximum of 49 nm, and ultrafast decay time of 1.15 ns. More importantly, it has a low detection limit of 25.5 nGy s−1, which is only 1/215 dose rate compared with the commercial X‐ray diagnostics. Such an excellent scintillation performance is mainly attributed to its high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY = 61.92%) and good carrier transport (average hole mobility of 0.094 cm2 V−1 s−1). By mixing the CBP into polydimethylsiloxane, the fabricated large area flexible film can be applied in X‐ray radiography, which exhibits a high spatial resolution of 14.3 lp mm−1 at MTF > 0.2. This work paves a way for the implementation of organic fluorescence dyes with high PLQY, high carrier mobility in efficient X‐ray scintillation and imaging.
A Novel Single Gate Controlled Nonvolatile Floating Program Gate Reconfigurable FET
Authors: Jin Xiaoshi , Zhang Shouqiang , Li Meng , Liu Xi
Published: March 2023

In this work, a single gate controlled nonvolatile floating program gate (FPG) reconfigurable field effect transistor (RFET) is proposed. Different from the traditional RFET, it introduces a nonvolatile charge storage layer as an FPG instead of a program gate that needs independent power supply. The stored charge in the FPG can be programmed by the control gate (CG). Therefore, the proposed FPG‐RFET essentially requires only one independently powered gate to complete the reconfigurable operation. Moreover, the CG can regulate the equivalent voltage in the FPG, which can effectively reduce the static power consumption and the generation of reverse leakage current. The physical mechanism has also been analyzed in detail.
Rationalizing the Influence of Tunable Energy Levels on Quantum Efficiency to Design Optimal Non‐Fullerene Acceptor‐Based Ternary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Karuthedath Safakath , Paleti Sri H. K. , Sharma Anirudh , Yin Hang , P. De Castro Catherine S. , Chen Si , Xu Han , Alshehri Nisreen , Ramos Nicolas , Khan Jafar I. , Martin Jaime , Li Gang , Laquai Frédéric , Baran Derya , Gorenflot Julien
Published: March 2023

Non‐fullerene acceptor (NFA)‐based ternary bulk heterojunction solar cells (TSC) are the most efficient organic solar cells (OSCs) today due to their broader absorption and quantum efficiencies (QE) often surpassing those of corresponding binary blends. The impact on QE of the energetics driving charge transfer at the electron donor:electron acceptor (D/A) interfaces is studied in blends of PBDB‐T‐2F donor with several pairs of lower bandgap NFAs. As in binary blends, the ionization energy offset between donor and acceptor (ΔIE) controls the QE and maximizes for ΔIE > 0.5 eV. However, ΔIE is not controlled by the individual NFAs IEs but by their average, weighted for their blending ratio. Using this property, the QE of a PBDB‐T‐2F:IEICO binary blend that has an insufficient ΔIE for charge generation is improved by adding a deep IE third component: IT‐4F. Combining two NFAs enables to optimize the D/A energy alignment and cells’ QE without molecular engineering.
Layered Structure Regulation for Zinc‐Ion Batteries: Rate Capability and Cyclability Enhancement by Rotatable Pillars
Authors: Li Yutong , Zhang Su , Wang Shitong , Xiao Zunqiu , Meng Fanteng , Li Qiqi , Zhang Xinghao , Zhang Zhongtai , Zhi Linjie , Tang Zilong
Published: March 2023

Regulating the interlayer spacing of vanadium oxides by various pillars has commonly been used for improving zinc‐ion storage performance. However, most of the reported pillars are large and rigid, which sacrifices interlayer free volume, increases the steric hindrance, and results in large volume change. Herein, a layered vanadium oxide with –OH pillars by controllable heat treatment of layered vanadium oxide with rigid NH4+ pillars is prepared. Although the –OH pillars are small‐sized, they can firmly support the interlayers through the covalent bond. In addition, the rotatable –OH pillars can promote Zn‐ion diffusion and accommodate lattice deformation. Compared to the layered vanadium oxide with rigid pillars, the one with rotatable pillars shows a higher rate capability (321 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and 83 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1) and a better cyclability (93% capacity retention over 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1). Further mechanism studies demonstrate that the rotatable pillars show low‐hindrance and high‐stability to regulate the interlayer structure. It is emphasized that the interlayer microenvironment can not be neglected, but is crucial for advanced electrodes of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries, rather than pursuing larger interlayer spacing.
Exploring the Nanoscale Origin of Performance Enhancement in Li1.1Ni0.35Mn0.55O2 Batteries Due to Chemical Doping
Authors: Thersleff Thomas , Biendicho Jordi Jacas , Prakasha Kunkanadu Rajappa , Moreno Elias Martinez , Jøsang Leif Olav , Grins Jekabs , Jaworski Aleksander , Svensson Gunnar
Published: March 2023

Despite significant potential as energy storage materials for electric vehicles due to their combination of high energy density per unit cost and reduced environmental and ethical concerns, Co‐free lithium ion batteries based on layered Mn oxides presently lack the longevity and stability of their Co‐containing counterparts. Here, a reduction in this performance gap is demonstrated via chemical doping, with Li1.1Ni0.35Mn0.54Al0.01O2 achieving an initial discharge capacity of 159 mAhg−1 at C/3 rate and a corresponding capacity retention of 94.3% after 150 cycles. The nanoscale origins of this improvement are subsequently explored through a combination of advanced diffraction, spectroscopy, and electron microscopy techniques, finding that optimized doping profiles lead to an improved structural and chemical compatibility between the two constituent sub‐phases that characterize the layered Mn oxide system, resulting in the formation of unobstructed lithium ion pathways between them. A structural stabilization effect of the host compound is also directly observed near the surface using aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy and integrated differential phase contrast imaging.
Insights into the genotype–phenotype relationship of ocular manifestations in Kabuki syndrome
Authors: Shah Suraj S. , Fulton Anne , Jabroun Mireille , Brightman Diana , Simpson Brittany N. , Bodamer Olaf A.
Published: March 2023

We aim to assess if genotype–phenotype correlations are present within ocular manifestations of Kabuki syndrome (KS) among a large multicenter cohort. We conducted a retrospective, medical record review including clinical history and comprehensive ophthalmological examinations of a total of 47 individuals with molecularly confirmed KS and ocular manifestations at Boston Children's Hospital and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. We assessed information regarding ocular structural, functional, and adnexal elements as well as pertinent associated phenotypic features associated with KS. For both type 1 KS (KS1) and type 2 KS (KS2), we observed more severe eye pathology in nonsense variants towards the C‐terminus of each gene, KMT2D and KDM6A, respectively. Furthermore, frameshift variants appeared to be not associated with structural ocular elements. Between both types of KS, ocular structural elements were more frequently identified in KS1 compared with KS2, which only involved the optic disc in our cohort. These results reinforce the need for a comprehensive ophthalmologic exam upon diagnosis of KS and regular follow‐up exams. The specific genotype may allow risk stratification of the severity of the ophthalmologic manifestation. However, additional studies involving larger cohorts are needed to replicate our observations and conduct powered analyses to more formally risk‐stratify based on genotype, highlighting the importance of multicenter collaborations in rare disease research.