bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Direct and Indirect Sunlight on Polythene Packs, Sensory, Microbial and Chemical Properties of Sachet Water
Authors: Adedire Oluwafemi M. , Atere Ayoade , Ogundipe Wuraola F. , Farinu Adekunle O.
Published: March 2021

The use of Polyethylene or Polyethylene terephthalate (PE/PET) packaging bags for water in Nigeria has great marketing appeal to consumers. However, poor storage and display techniques could subject these products to microbial, physical and chemical deterioration. Sachet water samples commonly taken by staff and students of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan were subjected to different storage conditions for three and five days. Physicochemical parameters of each water sample were determined through equilibrated devices and titrimetric or colorimetric assays, while aerobic bacteria were isolated through pour-plate method in Nutrient Agar. Exposure of sachet water to sunlight had significant effects on their physical, chemical and bacteriological properties. Highest chloride, calcium, alkalinity, hardness, sulphate and total dissolved solids (13.04 mg/L, 123.53 mg/L, 9.08 mg/L, 33.00 mg/L, 27.59 mg/L and 78.33 mg/L, respectively) were recorded in water samples exposed to indirect sunlight for 5 days. Samples stored at room temperature had the best physicochemical properties. Exposure to sunlight reduced the colony forming units of aerobic bacteria in all the water samples. Lowest bacterial count (0.33 × 103 CFU/mL) was observed in water sample exposed to sunlight for 5 days, while the highest count (55.84 CFU/mL) was recorded in samples stored at room temperature. Sensory scores of water samples ranged between 8.33 and 10.00; however, these sensory properties were not significantly affected by their exposure to sunlight for up to 5 days. Sunlight exposure negatively affected the inner surface feel of water packs, sachets appeared slimy after direct and indirect exposure. The physicochemical and microbial changes observed in sunlight-exposed sachet water samples did not influence their organoleptic acceptability. Consequently, in addition to taste and biochemical analysis, the feel of water sachets could be an indication of structural disintegration and water contamination. In order to maintain the integrity of sachet water, products should be hygienically prepared and prevented from sunlight exposure during transportation and storage.
Potent ABA‐independent activation of engineered PYL3
Authors: Wang Yutao , Feng Chong , Wu Xiangtao , Lu Weihong , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Xingliang
Published: March 2021

Abscisic acid (ABA) plays a vital role in many developmental processes and the response to adaptive stress in plants. Under drought stress, plants enhance levels of ABA and activate ABA receptors, but under harsh environmental stress, plants usually cannot efficiently synthesize and release sufficient quantities of ABA. The response of plants to harsh environmental stress may be improved through ABA‐independent activation of ABA receptors. The molecular basis of ABA‐independent inhibition of group A protein phosphatases type 2C (PP2Cs) by pyrabactin resistance/Pyr1‐like (PYR1/PYLs) is not yet clear. Here, we used our previously reported structures of PYL3 to first obtain the monomeric PYL3 mutant and then to introduce bulky hydrophobic residue substitutions to promote the closure of the Gate/L6/CL2 loop, thereby mimicking the conformation of ABA occupancy. Through structure‐guided mutagenesis and biochemical characterization, we investigated the mechanism of ABA‐independent activation of PYL3. Two types of PYL3 mutants were obtained: (a) PYL3 V108K V107L V192F can bind to ABA and effectively inhibit HAB1 without ABA; (b) PYL3 V108K V107F V192F, PYL3 V108K V107L V192F L111F and PYL3 V108K V107F V192F L111F cannot recognize ABA but can greatly inhibit HAB1 without ABA. Intriguingly, the ability of PYL3 mutants to bind to ABA was severely compromised if any two of three variable residues (V107, V192 and L111) were mutated into a bulky hydrophobic residue. The introduction of PYL3 mutants into transgenic plants will help elucidate the functionality of PYL3 in vivo and may facilitate the future production of transgenic crops with high yield and tolerance of abiotic stresses.
Quantifying false positional corrections due to facial motion using SGRT with open‐face Masks
Authors: Bry Victoria , Licon Anna Laura , McCulloch James , Kirby Neil , Myers Pamela , Saenz Daniel , Stathakis Sotirios , Papanikolaou Niko , Rasmussen Karl
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Studies have evaluated the viability of using open‐face masks as an immobilization technique to treat intracranial and head and neck cancers. This method offers less stress to the patient with comparable accuracy to closed‐face masks. Open‐face masks permit implementation of surface guided radiation therapy (SGRT) to assist in positioning and motion management. Research suggests that changes in patient facial expressions may influence the SGRT system to generate false positional corrections. This study aims to quantify these errors produced by the SGRT system due to face motion.

Methods

Ten human subjects were immobilized using open‐face masks. Four discrete SGRT regions of interest (ROIs) were analyzed based on anatomical features to simulate different mask openings. The largest ROI was lateral to the cheeks, superior to the eyebrows, and inferior to the mouth. The smallest ROI included only the eyes and bridge of the nose. Subjects were asked to open and close their eyes and simulate fear and annoyance and peak isocenter shifts were recorded. This was performed in both standard and SRS specific resolutions with the C‐RAD Catalyst HD system.

Results

All four ROIs analyzed in SRS and Standard resolutions demonstrated an average deviation of 0.3 ± 0.3 mm for eyes closed and 0.4 ± 0.4 mm shift for eyes open, and 0.3 ± 0.3 mm for eyes closed and 0.8 ± 0.9 mm shift for eyes open. The average deviation observed due to changing facial expressions was 1.4 ± 0.9 mm for SRS specific and 1.6 ± 1.6 mm for standard resolution.

Conclusion

The SGRT system can generate false positional corrections for face motion and this is amplified at lower resolutions and smaller ROIs. These errors should be considered in the overall tolerances and treatment plan when using open‐face masks with SGRT and may warrant additional radiographic imaging.
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 14: refining clinicogenetic diagnosis in a rare adult‐onset disorder
Authors: Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja , Lux Silke , Bauer Peter , Brandt Alexander U. , Schlapakow Elena , Greschus Susanne , Scheel Michael , Gärtner Hanna , Kirlangic Mehmet E. , Gras Vincent , Timmann Dagmar , Synofzik Matthis , Giorgetti Alejandro , Carloni Paolo , Shah Jon N. , Schöls Ludger , Kopp Ute , Bußenius Lisa , Oberwahrenbrock Timm , Zimmermann Hanna , Pfueller Caspar , Kadas Ella‐Maria , Rönnefarth Maria , Grosch Anne‐Sophie , Endres Matthias , Amunts Katrin , Paul Friedemann , Doss Sarah , Minnerop Martina
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Genetic variant classification is a challenge in rare adult‐onset disorders as in SCA‐PRKCG (prior spinocerebellar ataxia type 14) with mostly private conventional mutations and nonspecific phenotype. We here propose a refined approach for clinicogenetic diagnosis by including protein modeling and provide for confirmed SCA‐PRKCG a comprehensive phenotype description from a German multi‐center cohort, including standardized 3D MR imaging.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study prospectively obtained neurological, neuropsychological, and brain imaging data in 33 PRKCG variant carriers. Protein modeling was added as a classification criterion in variants of uncertain significance (VUS).

Results

Our sample included 25 cases confirmed as SCA‐PRKCG (14 variants, thereof seven novel variants) and eight carriers of variants assigned as VUS (four variants) or benign/likely benign (two variants). Phenotype in SCA‐PRKCG included slowly progressive ataxia (onset at 4–50 years), preceded in some by early‐onset nonprogressive symptoms. Ataxia was often combined with action myoclonus, dystonia, or mild cognitive‐affective disturbance. Inspection of brain MRI revealed nonprogressive cerebellar atrophy. As a novel finding, a previously not described T2 hyperintense dentate nucleus was seen in all SCA‐PRKCG cases but in none of the controls.

Interpretation

In this largest cohort to date, SCA‐PRKCG was characterized as a slowly progressive cerebellar syndrome with some clinical and imaging features suggestive of a developmental disorder. The observed non‐ataxia movement disorders and cognitive‐affective disturbance may well be attributed to cerebellar pathology. Protein modeling emerged as a valuable diagnostic tool for variant classification and the newly described T2 hyperintense dentate sign could serve as a supportive diagnostic marker of SCA‐PRKCG.
Inorganic Ammonium Halide Additive Strategy for Highly Efficient and Stable CsPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Tan Shan , Shi Jiangjian , Yu Bingcheng , Zhao Wenyan , Li Yusheng , Li Yiming , Wu Huijue , Luo Yanhong , Li Dongmei , Meng Qingbo
Published: March 2021

All‐inorganic perovskite cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) exhibits excellent prospects for commercial application as a light absorber in single‐junction or tandem solar cells due to its outstanding thermal stability and proper bandgap. However, the device performance of CsPbI3‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is still restricted by the unsatisfactory crystal quality and severe non‐radiative recombination. Herein, inorganic additive ammonium halides are introduced into the precursor solution to regulate the nucleation and crystallization of the CsPbI3 film by exploiting the atomic interaction between the ammonium group and the Pb–I framework. The grain boundaries and interfacial contact of the CsPbI3 film have been improved, which leads to significant suppression in the non‐radiative recombination and an enhancement in the charge transport ability. With these benefits, a high efficiency of 18.7% together with an extraordinarily high fill factor of 0.83–0.84 has been achieved, comparable to the highest records reported so far. Moreover, the cell exhibits ultra‐high photoelectrical stability under continuous light illumination and high bias voltage with 96% of its initial power‐conversion efficiency being sustained after 2000 h operation, even superior to the world‐champion CsPbI3 solar cell. The findings are promising for the development and application of all‐inorganic PSCs using a simple inorganic additive strategy.
Piezoelectric Nanogenerator Based on In Situ Growth All‐Inorganic CsPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystals in PVDF Fibers with Long‐Term Stability
Authors: Chen Huiying , Zhou Linlin , Fang Zhi , Wang Shuize , Yang Tao , Zhu Laipan , Hou Xinmei , Wang Hailong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: March 2021

Inorganic lead halide perovskite has become an emerging material for modern photoelectric and electronic nanodevices due to its excellent optical and electronic properties. In view of its huge dielectric and electrical properties, inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite is introduced into the piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG). Based on one‐step electrospinning of solutions containing CsPbBr3 precursors and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), in situ growth of CsPbBr3 nanocrystals in PVDF fibers (CsPbBr3@PVDF composite fibers) with highly uniform size and spatial distribution are synthesized. The CsPbBr3@PVDF composite fibers based PENG reveals an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 103 V and a density of short‐circuit current (Isc) of 170 µA cm−2, where the Voc is comparable to the state‐of‐the‐art hybrid composite piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and the density of Isc is 4.86 times higher than that of lead halide perovskites counterpart ever reported. Moreover, CsPbBr3@PVDF composite fibers based PENG exhibits fundamentally improved thermal/water/acid–base stabilities. This study suggests that the CsPbBr3@PVDF composite fiber is a good candidate for fabricating high‐performance PENGs, promising application potentials in mechanical energy harvesting and motion sensing technologies.
Encoding Hidden Information onto Surfaces Using Polymerized Cholesteric Spherical Reflectors
Authors: Geng Yong , Kizhakidathazhath Rijeesh , Lagerwall Jan P. F.
Published: March 2021

The omnidirectional Bragg reflection of cholesteric liquid crystals molded into spheres turns them into narrow‐band retroreflectors with distinct circular polarization. It is shown that these cholesteric spherical reflectors (CSRs) can encode information onto surfaces for far‐field optical read‐out without false positives, as the selective retroreflectivity allows the background to be easily subtracted. In order to hide the encoding from detection by the human eye, the retroreflection band is tuned to the near‐UV or IR spectra, allowing ubiquitous deployment of CSRs in human‐populated environments. This opens diverse application opportunities, for instance, in supporting safe robotic navigation and in augmented reality. A key breakthrough is our ability to permanently embed CSRs in a binder such that undesired scattering and reflections are minimized. This is achieved by realizing CSRs as shells that are polymerized from the liquid crystalline state. The resulting shrinkage around an incompressible fluid deforms the thinnest region of each shell such that it ruptures at a well‐defined point. This leaves a single small hole in every CSR that gives access to the interior, allowing complete embedding in the binder with optimized refractive index, minimizing visibility.
Anchoring Polysulfides and Accelerating Redox Reaction Enabled by Fe‐Based Compounds in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Qiao Zhensong , Zhang Yinggan , Meng Zhaohui , Xie Qingshui , Lin Liang , Zheng Hongfei , Sa Baisheng , Lin Jie , Wang Laisen , Peng Dong‐Liang
Published: March 2021

The synergetic mechanism of chemisorption and catalysis play an important role in developing high‐performance lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. Herein, a 3D lather‐like porous carbon framework containing Fe‐based compounds (including Fe3C, Fe3O4, and Fe2O3), named FeCFeOC, is designed as the sulfur host and the interlayer on separator. Due to the strong chemisorption and catalytic ability of FeCFeOC composite, the soluble lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) are first adsorbed and anchored on the surface of the FeCFeOC composite and then are catalyzed to accelerate their conversion reaction. In addition, the FexOy in Fe‐based compounds can spontaneously react with LiPSs to form magnetic FeSx species with a larger size, further blocking the penetration of LiPSs cross the separator. As a result, the assembled Li–S cells show excellent long‐term stability (748 mAh g−1 over 500 cycles at 1.0 C, and ≈0.036% decay per cycle for 1000 cycles at 3.0 C), a superb rate capability with 659 mAh g−1 at 5.0 C, and lower electrochemical polarization. This work introduces a feasible strategy to anchor and accelerate the conversion of LiPSs by designing the multifunctional Fe‐based compounds with high chemisorption and catalytic activity, which advances the large‐scale application of high‐performance Li–S batteries.
Constructing the Support as a Microreactor and Regenerator for Highly Active and In Situ Regenerative Hydrogenation Catalyst
Authors: Zhao Guoqiang , Liu Tian , Wu Binbin , Chen Baoliang , Chu Chiheng
Published: March 2021

The demands for efficient and robust heterogeneous hydrogenation catalysts have triggered extensive research to optimize the structures of metal catalytic centers, but the potential of support construction for enhanced hydrogenation performance has been overlooked. This study introduces a hierarchically ordered porous poly(2,6‐diaminopyridine) (PDAP) as a Pd nanoparticle support for hydrogenation removal of recalcitrant pollutants in water purification. The PDAP support acts as a sorbent and microreactor to enhance the proximity of targeted water pollutants and reactive hydrogen atom species, achieving unprecedently high water purification efficiency. The PDAP support also acts as a catalyst in mediating peroxide‐activation for oxidative destruction of Pd poisons (e.g., reduced sulfur), achieving in situ regeneration of poisoned Pd catalysis centers. The high activity and in situ regenerativity achieved by rational construction of the support structure sheds light on a new approach for designing efficient and robust heterogeneous hydrogenation catalysts.
Overcoming Mfsd2a‐Mediated Low Transcytosis to Boost Nanoparticle Delivery to Brain for Chemotherapy of Brain Metastases
Authors: Ju Xiufeng , Miao Tongtong , Chen Haiyan , Ni Jiang , Han Liang
Published: March 2021

Microvessels of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) exclusively express the major facilitator superfamily domain‐containing protein 2a (Mfsd2a), which is the key transporter for docosahexaenoic acid uptake into the brain. Mfsd2a suppresses caveolae‐mediated transcytosis to regulate BBB transcellular permeability via controlling lipid composition of BBB endothelial cells. It is speculated that Mfsd2a can restrain BBB crossing efficiency and brain accumulation efficiency of brain‐targeting drug delivery systems, which penetrate the BBB often through the receptor‐mediated transcytosis pathway. Transcytosis across the BBB is a crucial bottleneck for targeted chemotherapy of brain metastases. To overcome this issue, a pair of priming nanoparticles (NPs) and following drug‐loaded NPs are designed. Tunicamycin‐(TM)‐loaded transcytosis‐targeting‐peptide‐(TTP)‐decorated NPs (TM@TTP) are used to boost BBB transcytosis via inhibiting Mfsd2a. Doxorubicin (DOX)‐loaded TTP and CD44‐specific hyaluronic acid (HA)‐comodified NPs (DOX@TTP–HA) are designed as following drug‐loaded NPs. The brain accumulation efficacy of following DOX@TTP–HA with priming is 4.30‐fold higher than that without priming through the enhanced transcytosis pathway rather than the tight junction opening. Effective BBB crossing and brain accumulation, selective tumor uptake, excellent antitumor efficacy, and low hepatotoxicity are achieved by TM@TTP and DOX@TTP–HA, suggesting this tactic as a significant therapeutic strategy against breast cancer brain metastases.
Facile Synthesis of a Croconaine‐Based Nanoformulation for Optoacoustic Imaging and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Liu Nian , O'Connor Patrick , Gujrati Vipul , Gorpas Dimitris , Glasl Sarah , Blutke Andreas , Walch Axel , Kleigrewe Karin , Sattler Michael , Plettenburg Oliver , Ntziachristos Vasilis
Published: March 2021

Near‐infrared (NIR) light absorbing theranostic agents can integrate optoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy for effective personalized precision medicine. However, most of these agents face the challenges of unstable optical properties, material‐associated toxicity, and nonbiodegradability, all of which limit their biomedical application. Several croconaine‐based organic agents able to overcome some of these limitations have been recently reported, but these suffer from complicated multistep synthesis protocols. Herein, the use of CR760, a croconaine dye with excellent optical properties, is reported for nanoparticle formulation and subsequent optoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy. Importantly, CR760 can be conveniently prepared in a single step from commercially available materials. Furthermore, CR760 can be covalently attached, via a polyethylene glycol linker, to the αvβ3 integrin ligand c(RGDyC), resulting in self‐assembled nanoparticles (NPs) with cancer‐targeting capability. Such CR760RGD‐NPs exhibit strong NIR absorption, high photostability, high optoacoustic generation efficiency, and active tumor‐targeting, making them ideal candidates for optoacoustic imaging. Due to favorable electron transfer, CR760RGD‐NPs display a 45.37% photothermal conversion efficiency thereby rendering them additionally useful for photothermal therapy. Targeted tumor elimination, biosafety, and biocompatibility are demonstrated in a 4T1 murine breast tumor model. This work points to the use of CR760RGD‐NPs as a promising nanoagent for NIR‐based cancer phototheranostics.
Nanoburl Graphites
Authors: Lin Kunpeng , Fang Hailiang , Gao Ang , Yu Hui , Wang Lianjun , Yu Qian , Gu Lin , Zhang Qinghua , Li Jianlin , Jiang Wan
Published: March 2021

A critical challenge for the application of graphite is low strength, which originates from the easy cleavage of graphite (0002) planes. Inspired by the burl strengthening mechanism observed in tree trunks, nanodiamond particles converted into graphite onions are used as “nanoburls” embedded in graphite (0002) lattice planes to eliminate the graphite (0002) plane cleavage of bulk graphites prepared by spark plasma sintering from graphite powders. Covalent bonds are built between carbon atoms by sp3 hybridization at the interface between the graphite onions and flakes, which triggers an electron redistribution to form positive/negative charge domains within. Thus, pairs of pseudo‐Schottky junctions are created by the hybridization, which further enhances the bonding between the graphite onions and flakes. With these bonding mechanisms, and with voids between the graphite powders filled in by the volume expansion associated with the change of nanodiamonds to the graphite onions, the loose compaction of graphite powder becomes consolidated at 1700 °C. The proposed nanoburl mechanism shows its potential and bestows the nanoburl graphites with strength five times that of conventional graphites prepared from graphite powders. The concept of nanoburl strengthening can be important in the microstructural design and property enhancement of other layered materials.
2D MXenes: Tunable Mechanical and Tribological Properties
Authors: Wyatt Brian C. , Rosenkranz Andreas , Anasori Babak
Published: March 2021

2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, known as MXenes, were discovered in 2011 and have grown to prominence in energy storage, catalysis, electromagnetic interference shielding, wireless communications, electronic, sensors, and environmental and biomedical applications. In addition to their high electrical conductivity and electrochemically active behavior, MXenes’ mechanical properties, flexibility, and strong adhesion properties play crucial roles in almost all of these growing applications. Although these properties prove to be critical in MXenes’ impressive performance, the mechanical and tribological understanding of MXenes, as well as their relation to the synthesis process, is yet to be fully explored. Here, a fundamental overview of MXenes’ mechanical and tribological properties is provided and the effects of MXenes’ compositions, synthesis, and processing steps on these properties are discussed. Additionally, a critical perspective of the compositional control of MXenes for innovative structural, low‐friction, and low‐wear performance in current and upcoming applications of MXenes is provided. It is established here that the fundamental understanding of MXenes’ mechanical and tribological behavior is essential for their quickly growing applications.
Identification microRNAs and target genes in Tibetan hulless barley to BLS infection
Authors: Yao Xiaohua , Wang Yue , Yao Youhua , Bai Yixiong , Wu Kunlun , Qiao Youming
Published: March 2021

Tibetan hulless barley (Hordeum vulgare L. variety nudum Hook. f.) is widely grown on the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, where it has served as a staple food for Tibetan people since the 5th century CE. Barley leaf stripe (BLS) is one of the most severe fungal diseases affecting the yield and quality of Tibetan hulless barley. Here, we compared the miRNA profiles before and after BLS in a BLS‐sensitive (‘Z1141’) and tolerant (‘Kunlun14’) Tibetan hulless barley for the first time. A total of 36 conserved and 56 novel miRNAs were identified, of which 24 differentially expressed miRNAs were found in Z1141 and Kunlun14, and an additional 546 putative target genes were predicted. Transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that among these genes, 131 were differentially expressed in normal and infected leaves of Kunlun14 and Z1141. Gene ontology (GO), pathway, and Blast analyses indicated 10 candidate target genes including seven functional genes and three transcription factors were involved in barley disease resistance. These functional genes were two members of the CYP450 genes, a RGA gene, a LIN gene, a SAM gene, a PSD gene, and a NDB gene; the three transcription factor genes were all from the WRKY family. These 10 candidate target genes were regulated by eight miRNAs (hvu‐miR168‐3p, hvu‐miR171‐5p, hvu‐miR159b, hvu‐miR156a, hvu‐novel‐91, hvu‐novel‐46, hvu‐novel‐52, and hvu‐novel‐11). According to quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results, the 10 targets were negatively correlated with their corresponding miRNAs after infection with BLS. Thus, these miRNAs and their target genes can be used to improve BLS resistance in Tibetan hulless barley though breeding programs or genetic engineering.
Phylogeography of a gypsum endemic plant across its entire distribution range in the western Mediterranean
Authors: Blanco‐Sánchez Mario , Moore Michael J. , Ramos‐Muñoz Marina , Pías Beatriz , García‐Fernández Alfredo , Prieto María , Plaza Lidia , Isabel Ignacio , Escudero Adrián , Matesanz Silvia
Published: March 2021

PREMISE

Gypsum soils in the Mediterranean Basin house large numbers of edaphic specialists that are adapted to stressful environments. The evolutionary history and standing genetic variation of these taxa have been influenced by the geological and paleoclimatic complexity of this area and the long‐standing effect of human activities. However, little is known about the origin of Mediterranean gypsophiles and the factors affecting their genetic diversity and population structure.

METHODS

Using phylogenetic and phylogeographic approaches based on microsatellites and sequence data from nuclear and chloroplast regions, we evaluated the divergence time, genetic diversity, and population structure of 27 different populations of the widespread Iberian gypsophile Lepidium subulatum throughout its entire geographic range.

RESULTS

Lepidium subulatum diverged from its nearest relatives ~3 million years ago, and ITS and psbA/matK trees supported the monophyly of the species. These results suggest that both geological and climatic changes in the region around the Plio‐Pleistocene promoted its origin, compared to other evolutionary processes. We found high genetic diversity in both nuclear and chloroplast markers, but a greater population structure in the chloroplast data. These results suggest that while seed dispersal is limited, pollen flow may be favored by the presence of numerous habitat patches that enhance the movement of pollinators.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being an edaphic endemic, L. subulatum possesses high genetic diversity probably related to its relatively old age and high population sizes across its range. Our study highlights the value of using different markers to fully understand the phylogeographic history of plant species.
A case of Ververi‐Brady syndrome due to QRICH1 loss of function and the literature review
Authors: Baruch Yoav , Horn‐Saban Shirley , Plotsky Yoram , Bercovich Dani , Gershoni‐Baruch Ruth
Published: March 2021

Ververi‐Brady syndrome (VBS), first reported in 2018, is characterized by intellectual disability, speech delay, and mild dysmorphic facial features. VBS has been linked to de novo loss‐of‐function variants in the glutamine‐rich protein 1 (QRICH1) on chromosome 3p21 and was reported until lately in only five individuals. Four additional cases have just been described substantiating the notion that children with VBS are mildly dysmorphic, mildly to moderately intellectually disabled, have linear growth shortage, are picky eaters, and have notable attention and social behavioral deficits. We describe a new patient and review the clinical and genetic information, on all previously reported VBS cases. The child here reported is noted for maladaptive behavior, sensory hypersensitivity, and slow linear growth. He is mainly hyperactive, distractible, impulsive, and inattentive. His speech, initially delayed, is fair and his verbal comprehension age adequate.
Exploring the entangled state and molecular weight ofUHMWPEon the microstructure and mechanical properties ofHDPE/UHMWPEblends
Authors: Tao Gan , Chen Yuming , Mu Jingshan , Zhang Letian , Ye Chunlin , Li Wei
Published: March 2021

Three types of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with different entangled state and molecular weight were blended with high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix by melt blending. Rheology, 2D‐SAXS, 2D‐WAXD, DSC, and mechanical tests were used to study the evolution and difference of microstructure and mechanical properties of the blends. The addition of weakly entangled UHMWPE enhanced the chain diffusion and chain orientation ability under a specific flow field. Thus, the rheological properties and mechanical properties of the blends were improved with the mix of weakly entangled UHMWPE. The mechanical properties enhancement effect of HDPE/UHMWPE blends with weakly entangled UHMWPE was owing to the shish‐kebab structure formed in the injection molding process. The molecular chains of UHMWPE with a low degree of entanglement and high molecular weight increased the lamella size and crystallinity of the blends during processing. This leads to the formation of more oriented shish structures and more kebab lamella. Besides, the molecular chains of weakly entangled UHMWPE were better interlocked and intertwined with other polyethylene chains in the amorphous region, acting as the tie molecules, significantly improving the impact resistance.
Just Aquatic Governance: The Amazon basin as fertile ground for aligning participatory conservation with social justice
Authors: Lopes Priscila F. M. , de Freitas Carolina Tavares , Hallwass Gustavo , Silvano Renato A. M. , Begossi Alpina , Campos‐Silva João Vitor
Published: March 2021

Governance of natural resources in the Amazon has changed over time, especially when it comes to participatory regimes. Yet these regimes have rarely focused on the conservation of aquatic systems or have failed to fully deliver social justice.

Participatory regimes in the Amazon basin that rely on the provision of freshwater ecosystem services can potentially favour transformative and just conservation. A framework referred to as the ‘Just Aquatic Governance’ model is proposed to organize and facilitate the transition of continuing and future endeavours that seek conservation while also supporting distinct aspects of social justice.

If conservation of aquatic systems can be reconciled with all aspects of social justice, then transformative and just governance regimes could emerge without further burdening those at the forefront of conservation.

The Just Aquatic Governance framework is divided into three aspects of social justice, organized according to the following pillars: (i) recognitional – support for cultural diversity and the maintenance of livelihoods, including food security; (ii) procedural – the right to autonomy and territory, and support for participatory forms of governance; and (iii) distributional – promotion of gender equality and fair distribution of economic benefits.

Although not a panacea, the model proposed here, which can also influence policy strategies, can potentially align both conservation demands and social aspirations in the Amazon – a historical, yet still imperative, need in the region.
Interpretation of acupoint location in traditional Chinese medicine teaching: Implications for acupuncture in research and clinical practice
Authors: Zhang Yi
Published: March 2021

Acupuncture is a therapeutic intervention of traditional Chinese medicine, characterized by the insertion of a fine metal needle through the human body's skin at an acupuncture point (acupoint). Acupuncture has become from cultural curiosity to fast‐growing complementary and alternative medicine therapy worldwide, including in the United States. The ability to locate acupoints on the body surface precisely is critical for the acupuncture treatment. However, the location of acupoints varies frequently among practitioners. Therefore, in the present study, the author will address the application of acupoint in traditional Chinese medicine (including the anatomical location of acupoint) to draw attention to the issues about the acupoint location in acupuncture research and clinical practice. Moreover, further studies are needed to determine whether acupoint location with specificity could be validated by employing reliable tools. In the future, the incongruity among acupuncturists regarding acupoint location should be resolved, and the acupoint location methods with more accuracy should be developed.
Simple confidence interval and region formulas for comparing diagnostic likelihood ratios under a paired design
Authors: Wu Yougui
Published: March 2021

A population‐based paired design is often used for comparing the diagnostic likelihood ratios of two binary diagnostic tests. However, a case‐control paired design, which involves the application of both diagnostic tests to two independent samples, is a good alternative study design especially when the disease is rare. Existing methods for comparing two diagnostic likelihood ratios have been mainly focused on the population‐based paired design with little attention paid to the case‐control paired design. In this paper, we derive a confidence interval formula for the relative diagnostic likelihood ratio (the ratio of two diagnostic likelihood ratios), which can be used for the comparison of two positive or negative diagnostic likelihood ratios separately. We also derive a confidence region formula for the two relative positive and negative diagnostic likelihood ratios, which allows simultaneous comparison of two positive and negative diagnostic likelihood ratios. The proposed confidence interval and region formulas are simple to compute and can be used for both population‐based paired design and case‐control paired designs. Simulation studies are used to assess the finite sample performance of the confidence interval and region formulas. The proposed methods are applied to a real data set on coronary artery disease and two diagnostic tests.
Five New Triene Derivatives from the Fungus Penicillium herquei JX4
Authors: Luo Ze‐Wu , Tang Min‐Min , Zhou Xue‐Ming , Song Xin‐Ming , Yi Ji‐Ling , Zhang Bin , Yang Jing‐Yu , Chen Guang‐Ying
Published: March 2021

Five undescribed triene derivatives, pinophols B–F (2–6), together with one known compound, pinophol A (1), were obtained from the mangrove endophytic fungus Penicillium herquei JX4. The structures of compounds 1–6 were elucidated using IR, HR‐ESI‐MS, and NMR methods. The absolute configurations of compounds 1–6 were confirmed by comparing their experimental or calculated ECD spectra. Pinophols C and D (3 and 4) showed inhibitory activities against LPS‐induced NO production.
Principal component regression that minimizes the sum of the squares of the relative errors: Application in multivariate calibration models
Authors: Valencia Olga , Ortiz María Cruz , Sarabia Luis Antonio
Published: March 2021

Relative errors are typically used in chemometrics to evaluate the performance of a multivariate predictive model. However, these models are not obtained through the criterion of minimizing relative errors, as would be expected in a model whose response is the concentration of an analyte. There are no studies in chemometrics on the use of a principal component regression that minimizes the sum of the squares of the relative errors. This work proposes a model, which serves this purpose. The suggested model, wPCR, has been applied to 7 datasets with 12 predicted responses, 10 of which are multivariate calibrations of analytes in complex mixtures based on instrumental signals coming from various analytical techniques. As PCR and wPCR are methods seeking to optimize different criteria, each one achieves a better performance with respect to its own criterion. Therefore, the new model wPCR leads to better results insofar as the relative errors are considered, especially for the smallest responses. In this sense, the wPCR model also outperforms PCR with logarithmic transformation of the response (logPCR). In addition, as for the performance of the method using Joint Confidence Regions for the intercept and the slope of the accuracy line, it is shown that the application of wPCR does not introduce bias, neither constant nor proportional for the models built, nor a systematic alteration of the achievable accuracy.
Deutsche Energiewende: Wie soll es weitergehen?
Authors: Machhammer Otto
Published: March 2021

No abstract.
Artificial photosynthesis – hydrogen production in a one‐pot‐cell
Authors: Kremer Richard , Bohrmann‐Linde Claudia , Tausch Michael W.
Published: March 2021

Im Beitrag wird erstmalig über die photokatalytische Herstellung von Wasserstoff in einer LED‐betriebenen Eintopfzelle berichtet. Dabei werden wesentliche Teilprozesse der künstlichen Photosynthese verwirklicht, wobei Basiskonzepte und Pflichtinhalte des Chemieunterrichts zur Anwendung kommen. Die ausführliche Beschreibung des neuen Modellexperiments im Artikel wird durch ein online verfügbares Video ergänzt. Die didaktische Brückenfunktion von Eintopfzellen zwischen Zweitopfzellen mit getrennten Reaktionsräumen und kompakten Bauelementen in der Technik wird anhand von Beispielen elektrochemischer, photogalvanischer und photokatalytischer Zellen erläutert.
Computing Metal‐Binding Proteins for Therapeutic Benefit
Authors: Spinello Angelo , Borišek Jure , Pavlin Matic , Janoš Pavel , Magistrato Alessandra
Published: March 2021

Over one third of biomolecules rely on metal ions to exert their cellular functions. Metal ions can play a structural role by stabilizing the structure of biomolecules, a functional role by promoting a wide variety of biochemical reactions, and a regulatory role by acting as messengers upon binding to proteins regulating cellular metal‐homeostasis. These diverse roles in biology ascribe critical implications to metal‐binding proteins in the onset of many diseases. Hence, it is of utmost importance to exhaustively unlock the different mechanistic facets of metal‐binding proteins and to harness this knowledge to rationally devise novel therapeutic strategies to prevent or cure pathological states associated with metal‐dependent cellular dysfunctions. In this compendium, we illustrate how the use of a computational arsenal based on docking, classical, and quantum‐classical molecular dynamics simulations can contribute to extricate the minutiae of the catalytic, transport, and inhibition mechanisms of metal‐binding proteins at the atomic level. This knowledge represents a fertile ground and an essential prerequisite for selectively targeting metal‐binding proteins with small‐molecule inhibitors aiming to (i) abrogate deregulated metal‐dependent (mis)functions or (ii) leverage metal‐dyshomeostasis to selectively trigger harmful cells death.
Overall survival of myelodysplastic syndrome patients after azacitidine discontinuation and applicability of the North American MDS Consortium scoring system in clinical practice
Authors: Clavio Marino , Crisà Elena , Miglino Maurizio , Guolo Fabio , Ceccarelli Manuela , Salvi Flavia , Allione Bernardino , Ferrero Dario , Balleari Enrico , Finelli Carlo , Poloni Antonella , Selleri Carmine , Danise Paolo , Cilloni Daniela , Di Tucci Anna Angela , Cametti Gianni , Freilone Roberto , Fanin Renato , Bigazzi Catia , Zambello Renato , Crugnola Monica , Oliva Esther N. , Centurioni Riccardo , Alesiani Francesco , Catarini Massimo , Castelli Andrea , Abbadessa Antonio , Capalbo Silvana F. , Musto Pellegrino , Angelucci Emanuele , Santini Valeria
Published: March 2021

Background

Azacitidine (AZA) is the standard treatment for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS); however, many patients prematurely stop therapy and have a dismal outcome.

Methods

The authors analyzed outcomes after AZA treatment for 402 MDS patients consecutively enrolled in the Italian MDS Registry of the Fondazione Italiana Sindromi Mielodisplastiche, and they evaluated the North American MDS Consortium scoring system in a clinical practice setting.

Results

At treatment discontinuation, 20.3% of the patients were still responding to AZA, 35.4% of the cases had primary resistance, and 44.3% developed adaptive resistance. Overall survival (OS) was better for patients who discontinued treatment while in response because of planned allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT; median OS, not reached) in comparison with patients with primary resistance (median OS, 4 months) or adaptive resistance (median OS, 5 months) or patients responsive but noncompliant/intolerant to AZA (median OS, 4 months; P = .004). After AZA discontinuation, 309 patients (77%) received best supportive care (BSC), 60 (15%) received active treatments, and 33 (8%) received HSCT. HSCT was associated with a significant survival advantage, regardless of the response to AZA. The North American MDS Consortium scoring system was evaluable in 278 of the 402 cases: patients at high risk had worse OS than patients at low risk (3 and 7 months, respectively; P < .001). The score was predictive of survival both in patients receiving BSC (median OS, 2 months for high‐risk patients vs 5 months for low‐risk patients) and in patients being actively treated (median OS, 8 months for high‐risk patients vs 16 months for low‐risk patients; P < .001), including transplant patients.

Conclusions

Real‐life data confirm that this prognostic scoring system for MDS patients failing a hypomethylating agent seems to be a useful tool for optimal prognostic stratification and for choosing a second‐line treatment after AZA discontinuation.
Impact of optional multidisciplinary tumor board meeting on the mortality of patients with gastrointestinal cancer: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Basendowah Mohammed , Awlia Alaa M. , Alamoudi Hanin A. , Ali Kanawi Hala M. , Saleem Abdulaziz , Malibary Nadim , Hijazi Hussam , Alfawaz Mohammed , Alzahrani Anas H.
Published: March 2021

Background

Multidisciplinary tumor board meetings (MDTs) have shown a positive effect on patient care and play a role in the planning of care. However, there is limited evidence of the association between MDTs and patient mortality and in‐hospital morbidity for mixed cases of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer.

Aim

To evaluate the influence of optional MDTs on care of patients with cancer to determine potential associations between MDTs and patient mortality and morbidity.

Methods and results

This was a retrospective observational study at the referral center of King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Among all adult patients diagnosed with GI cancer from January 2017 to June 2019, 130 patients were included. We categorized patients into two groups: 66 in the control group (non‐MDT) and 64 in the MDT group. The main outcome measure was overall mortality, measured by survival analysis. The follow‐up was 100% complete. Four patients in the MDT group and 13 in the non‐MDT group died (P = .04). The median follow‐up duration was 294 days (interquartile range [IQR], 140‐434) in the non‐MDT group compared with 176 days (IQR, 103‐466) in the MDT group (P = .20). There were no differences in intensive care unit or hospital length‐of‐stay or admission rates. The overall mortality at 2 years was 13% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06‐0.66) in the MDT group and 38% (95% CI, 0.10‐0.39) in the non‐MDT group (P = .08). The MDT group showed a 72% (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.28; 95% CI, 0.08‐0.90; P = .03) decrease in mortality over time compared with the non‐MDT group.

Conclusions

MDTs were associated with decreased mortality over time. Thus, MDTs have a positive influence on patient care by improving survival and should be incorporated into care.
Interrogating the Small Intestine Tuft Cell–ILC2 Circuit Using In Vivo Manipulations
Authors: O'Leary Claire E. , Feng Xiaogang , Cortez Victor S. , Locksley Richard M. , Schneider Christoph
Published: March 2021

Recent findings position tuft cells as key mediators of intestinal immunity through their production of the cytokine interleukin (IL)‐25 and activation of group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s). Though tuft cells are found in numerous epithelial tissues, their phenotype and function have been best characterized in the small intestine, where robust in vivo techniques have enabled the dissection of their cellular function, ontogeny, and key signaling pathways. We describe methods for the identification, quantification, and manipulation of tuft cells, focusing on analysis of ILC2s as a readout of tuft cell function. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 17 June 2021 and 26 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol 1: Ex vivo analysis of small intestinal tuft cells and ILC2 by flow cytometry

Alternate Protocol: Ex vivo analysis of small intestinal tuft cells and ILC2 by flow cytometry in the context of type 2 inflammation

Basic Protocol 2: Ex vivo analysis of small intestinal tuft cells by imaging of intestinal Swiss roll

Basic Protocol 3: Tuft–ILC2 circuit activation by oral gavage of adult Nippostrongylus brasiliensis worms

Basic Protocol 4: Circuit activation by colonization with Tritrichomonas spp.

Basic Protocol 5: Circuit activation by treatment with succinate in drinking water

Basic Protocol 6: Circuit activation by treatment with recombinant IL‐25
Aortic Cross‐Clamping to Provide Differential Fixation by Perfusion
Authors: Moore Mackenzie M. , Alejandro Emilyn U.
Published: March 2021

An intricate network of regulation between the brain and the pancreas modulates hormone secretion and organ function. Dysfunction of the brain‐pancreas axis occurs in disease states such as diabetes and pancreatitis. Given the delicate nature of the mouse brain, procurement for tissue and cellular analysis is facilitated by fixation by perfusion with paraformaldehyde (PFA). The brain is hardened by PFA during the preservation process, but this hardening also occurs in the pancreas, as well as the remainder of the intra‐abdominal organs. This hardening makes the pancreas friable and difficult to dissect without damaging and fragmenting the organ. Additionally, this fixation may preclude the ability to perform analytic techniques such as western blot and quantitative PCR (qPCR) simultaneously. Performing a simple cross‐clamping of the thoracic aorta allows for differential perfusion of organs and maximal use of limited samples from a single animal. The brain can be perfused with PFA without compromising tissue collection of the pancreas and other intra‐abdominal organs. This simple maneuver allows for greater tissue collection and analysis per mouse in studies evaluating the brain‐pancreas or brain‐gut axis. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 25 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol: Differential fixation by perfusion using aortic cross‐clamp
How to Conduct Responsible Research: A Guide for Graduate Students
Authors: Antes Alison L. , Maggi Leonard B.
Published: March 2021

Researchers must conduct research responsibly for it to have an impact and to safeguard trust in science. Essential responsibilities of researchers include using rigorous, reproducible research methods, reporting findings in a trustworthy manner, and giving the researchers who contributed appropriate authorship credit. This “how‐to” guide covers strategies and practices for doing reproducible research and being a responsible author. The article also covers how to utilize decision‐making strategies when uncertain about the best way to proceed in a challenging situation. The advice focuses especially on graduate students, but is appropriate for undergraduates and experienced researchers. It begins with an overview of responsible conduct of research, research misconduct, and ethical behavior in the scientific workplace. The takeaway message is that responsible conduct of research requires a thoughtful approach to doing research in order to ensure trustworthy results and conclusions, and that researchers receive fair credit. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 25 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.