bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working in Creative Partnership with Students to Co‐Produce Neuroanatomy e‐Learning Resources in a New Era of Blended Learning
Authors: Border Scott , Woodward Charlotte , Kurn Octavia , Birchall Cara , Laurayne Hailey , Anbu Deepika , Taylor Charlie , Hall Samuel
Published: April 2021

Anatomists are well placed to tackle the transition from face‐to‐face to blended learning approaches as a result of the rapidly forced changes brought about by Covid‐19. The subject is extremely visual and has, therefore, previously been a target for the development of technology‐enhanced learning initiatives over the last ten years. Today's students have come to expect the integration of technology in the classroom and remotely. They adjust quickly to the innovative use of new applications and software and have begun to integrate it within their own workflow for note taking and study aids. Given the intense drive toward blended deliveries of anatomy as a result of the Covid‐19 pandemic, it is easy to picture how the benefits of working in partnership with students (in order to achieve many of these aims) would be possible, particularly in difficult subjects like neuroanatomy. In doing so, it provides anatomists with new opportunities to engage students in a way that aligns well with best practice frameworks for engaging students through partnership. The current United Kingdom guidelines set out by Advance HE (a professional membership organization for promoting excellence in higher education) strongly encourages the higher education community to seek out appropriate academic contexts where a balance of power can be struck between staff and student to create a community of practice. If such an approach can be fully embraced by anatomists, a strong argument can be made for seizing the opportunity to optimize the benefits of student partnership work in this discipline.
Bacterial pigments: A colorful palette reservoir for biotechnological applications
Authors: Orlandi Viviana Teresa , Martegani Eleonora , Giaroni Cristina , Baj Andreina , Bolognese Fabrizio
Published: April 2021

Synthetic derivatives are currently used instead of pigments in many applicative fields, from food to feed, from pharmaceutical to diagnostic, from agronomy to industry. Progress in organic chemistry allowed to obtain rather cheap compounds covering the whole color spectrum. However, several concerns arise from this chemical approach, as it is mainly based on nonrenewable resources such as fossil oil, and the toxicity or carcinogenic properties of products and/or precursors may be harmful for personnel involved in the productive processes. In this scenario, microorganisms and their pigments represent a colorful world to discover and reconsider. Each living bacterial strain may be a source of secondary metabolites with peculiar functions. The aim of this review is to link the physiological role of bacterial pigments with their potential use in different biotechnological fields. This enormous potential supports the big challenge for the development of strategies useful to identify, produce, and purify the right pigment for the desired application. At the end of this ideal journey through the world of bacterial pigments, the attention will be focused on melanin compounds, whose production relies upon different techniques ranging from natural producers, heterologous hosts, or isolated enzymes. In a green workflow, the microorganisms represent the starting and final point of pigment production.
An environmental policy of green intellectual capital: Green innovation strategy for performance sustainability
Authors: Wang Chao Hung , Juo Wei‐Jr
Published: April 2021

This study examines how green intellectual capital (GIC) affects economic and green performance through green innovation. We show ways in which a firm's performance is influenced by three dimensions of GIC, that is, green human capital (GHC), green relational capital (GRC), and green structural capital (GSC), and use the mediating role of green innovation to explain the relationships. The results of a survey conducted on 138 high‐tech firms indicate that the three GIC constructs positively affect economic performance, green performance, and green innovation, respectively. Further analysis finds that green innovation fully mediates the linkage of GHC–economic performance and GSC–green performance and partially mediates the linkage of GRC–economic performance and GRC–green performance. We find that green innovation does not mediate the linkage of GSC–economic performance and GHC–green performance, and this contributes towards business strategy and implementation of green innovation practices.
Photobiomodulation in diabetic wound healing: A review of red and near‐infrared wavelength applications
Authors: Oyebode Olajumoke , Houreld Nicolette Nadene , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: April 2021

The development of a painless, non‐invasive, and faster way to diabetic wound healing is at the forefront of research. The complexity associated with diabetic wounds makes it a cause for concern amongst diabetic patients and the world at large. Irradiation of cells generates a photobiomodulatory response on cells and tissues, directly causing alteration of cellular processes and inducing diabetic wound repair. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) using red and near‐infrared (NIR) wavelengths is being considered as a promising technique for speeding up the rate of diabetic wound healing, eradication of pain and reduction of inflammation through the alteration of diverse cellular and molecular processes. This review presents the extent to which the potential of red and NIR wavelengths have been harnessed in PBMT for diabetic wound healing. Important research challenges and gaps are identified and discussed, and future directions mapped out. This review thus provides useful insights and strategies into improvement of PBMT, including its acceptance within the global medical research community.
Coordination Properties of Hydroxyisophthalic Acids: Topological Correlations, Synthesis, Structural Analysis, and Properties of New Complexes
Authors: Sokolov Andrey V. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Barabanova Ekaterina D. , Stefanovich Sergey Yu. , Dorovatovskii Pavel V. , Taydakov Ilya V. , Alexandrov Eugeny V.
Published: April 2021

Hydroxyisophthalic acids are valuable polytopic ligands for the design of functional materials based on coordination polymers due to the variety of charges and coordination modes they possess. Herein, we describe the synthesis, thermal stability, nonlinear optical (NLO) and spectroscopic properties of five novel coordination compounds, [K2L(H2O)2], [MgL(H2O)2] ⋅ 3H2O, [CaL(H2O)3], [SrL(H2O)3] ⋅ H2O, [BaL(H2O)(H2O)5], and one salt, (NH4)2L ⋅ 2H2O, with 4,5,6‐trihydroxyisophthalic acid (H2L), which has not been tested in assembling crystalline coordination networks before. The peculiarities of the structural organization of the compounds were analyzed and compared with those for other hydroxyisophthalates. The coordination properties of hydroxyisophthalic acids were studied from the topological point of view, and a comparative topological analysis of coordination and H‐bonded networks was performed. Structural correlations revealed in this study could be useful for the design of hydroxyisophthalate‐based coordination networks, including porous metal‐organic frameworks, proton conductors, and NLO materials.
Solvent Induced Helix Folding of Defined Indolenine Squaraine Oligomers
Authors: Turkin Arthur , Holzapfel Marco , Agarwal Mohit , Fischermeier David , Mitric Roland , Schweins Ralf , Gröhn Franziska , Lambert Christoph
Published: April 2021

A protecting group strategy was employed to synthesise a series of indolenine squaraine dye oligomers up to the nonamer. The longer oligomers show a distinct solvent dependence of the absorption spectra, that is, either a strong blue shift or a strong red shift of the lowest energy bands in the near infrared spectral region. This behaviour is explained by exciton coupling theory as being due to H‐ or J‐type coupling of transition moments. The H‐type coupling is a consequence of a helix folding in solvents with a small Hansen dispersity index. DOSY NMR, small angle neutron scattering (SANS), quantum chemical and force field calculations agree upon a helix structure with an unusually large pitch and open voids that are filled with solvent molecules, thereby forming a kind of clathrate. The thermodynamic parameters of the folding process were determined by temperature dependent optical absorption spectra.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed C−H Bond Functionalization of 2‐Pyridones with Alkynes: Switchable Alkenylation, Alkenylation/Directing Group Migration and Rollover Annulation
Authors: Xu Xin , Luo Chenguang , Zhao Haoqiang , Pan Yixiao , Zhang Xin , Li Jiajie , Xu Lijin , Lei Ming , Walsh Patrick J.
Published: April 2021

Cp*Rh(III)‐catalyzed chelation‐assisted direct C−H bond functionalization of 1‐(2‐pyridyl)‐2‐pyridones with internal alkynes that can be controlled to give three different products in good yields has been realized. Depending on the reaction conditions, solvents and additives, the reaction pathway can be switched between alkenylation, alkenylation/directing group migration and rollover annulation. These reaction manifolds allow divergent access to a variety of valuable C6‐alkenylated 1‐(2‐pyridyl)‐2‐pyridones, (Z)‐6‐(1,2‐diaryl‐2‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)vinyl)pyridin‐2(1H)‐ones and 10H‐pyrido[1,2‐a][1,8]naphthyridin‐10‐ones from the same starting materials. These protocols exhibit excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivity, broad substrate scope, and good tolerance of functional groups. A combination of experimental and computational approaches have been employed to uncover the key mechanistic features of these reactions.
Light‐Driven gem Hydrogenation: An Orthogonal Entry into “Second‐Generation” Ruthenium Carbene Catalysts for Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Zachmann Raphael J. , Fürstner Alois
Published: April 2021

The newly discovered light‐driven gem hydrogenation of alkynes opens an unconventional yet efficient entry into five‐coordinate Grubbs‐type ruthenium carbene complexes with cis‐disposed chloride ligands. Representatives of this class featuring a chelate substructure formed by an iodo‐substituted benzylidene unit react with (substituted) 2‐isopropoxystyrene to give prototypical “second‐generation” Grubbs‐Hoveyda complexes for olefin metathesis. The new approach to this venerable catalyst family is safe and versatile as it uses a triple bond rather than phenyldiazomethane as the ultimate carbene source and does not require any sacrificial phosphines.
An overview of sensors and sensing materials for heavy metals in aqueous environments
Authors: Stewart Katherine M. E. , Al‐Ghamdi Majed , Khater Mahmoud , Abdel‐Rahman Eihab M. , Penlidis Alexander
Published: April 2021

This paper offers a critical overview of recent advancements in aqueous sensors for heavy metals. The paper focuses on the challenges and advantages of using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors in aqueous environments, as well as technical considerations for choosing appropriate polymeric sensing materials. In addition, general considerations and recommendations are included for developing MEMS chemical sensors. These considerations centre around the chemical nature of the target analyte and the environment of the sensor application. By following these recommendations and taking the time to design a suitable sensor and sensing material for the target application instead of a trial‐and‐error approach, it is possible to save both time and cost.
Hyperpolarisation of Mirfentanil by SABRE in the Presence of Heroin
Authors: Robertson Thomas B. R. , Gilbert Nicolas , Sutcliffe Oliver B. , Mewis Ryan E.
Published: April 2021

Mirfentanil, a fentanyl derivative that is a μ‐opioid partial agonist, is hyperpolarised via Signal Amplification By Reversible Exchange (SABRE), a para‐hydrogen‐based technique. [Ir(IMes)(COD)Cl] (IMes=1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)imidazole‐2‐ylidene, COD=cyclooctadiene) was employed as the polarisation transfer catalyst. Following polarisation transfer at 6.5 mT, the pyrazine‐protons were enhanced by 78‐fold (polarisation, P=0.04 %). The complex [Ir(IMes)(H)2(mirfentanil)2(MeOH)]+ is proposed to form based on the observation of two hydrides at δ −22.9 (trans to mirfentanil) and −24.7 (trans to methanol). In a mixture of mirfentanil and heroin, the former could be detected using SABRE at concentrations less than 1 % w/w. At the lowest concentration analyzed, the amount of mirfentanil present was 0.18 mg (812 μM) and produced a signal enhancement of −867‐fold (P=0.42 %). following polarisation transfer at 6.5 mT.
Understand and address complexities of rejection sensitive dysphoria in students with ADHD
Authors: Bedrossian Louise
Published: April 2021

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual recently expanded the childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis to include adults but without incorporating new adult diagnostic criteria. Childhood criteria had never matched well, or been validated for, the differing adult symptom presentation.
The odd‐skipped related gene drumstick is required for leg development in the beetle Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Thümecke Susanne , Schröder Reinhard
Published: April 2021

Background

The evolutionarily conserved odd‐skipped related genes odd‐skipped (odd), drumstick (drm), sister of odd and bowel (sob), and brother‐of‐odd‐with‐entrails‐limited (bwl) act downstream of the Notch pathway in various insect tissues including the appendages and the gut. While the function of some of these genes have been analyzed in the adult Tribolium beetle, the expression during and their requirement for embryonic development is not known.

Results

We describe here the embryonic expression patterns of drm, sob, and bwl and analyze the RNAi knockdown phenotypes with emphasize on the appendages and the hindgut. We show that in Tribolium, drm acts independently of other odd‐family members in the formation of legs, hindgut, and the dorsal epidermis. Moreover, we establish drm and sob as further markers for segment borders in the appendages that include the gnathobasic mandibles.

Conclusions

We conclude that the regulatory interrelationship among the odd genes differs between Tribolium and Drosophila, where odd and drm seem to act redundantly. In Tribolium, the genes drm and sob uncover the relict of a precoxal joint incorporated in the lateral body wall.
The role of functional diversity and facilitation in small‐scale pollinator habitat
Authors: Fuccillo Battle Kerissa , de Rivera Catherine E. , Cruzan Mitchell B.
Published: April 2021

People in urban and rural areas are planting habitat patches for pollinators in response to growing public awareness of the risks of pollinator declines; yet research rarely has been undertaken to inform the composition of such patches. Determining which key functional plant traits to prioritize and how plant–pollinator interaction dynamics operate in these small‐scale, fragmented patches is critical to ensuring the efficacy of pollinator restoration efforts across landscapes. We established small‐scale (2.5 m diameter) experimental patches and manipulated plant diversity and resource level (nectar) to determine the effects on pollinator abundance, pollinator diversity, and plant–pollinator facilitation–competition dynamics. Our results showed that in small‐scale habitat, plant diversity and resource availability significantly affected the abundance and diversity of pollinating insects. Specifically, the treatments that contained high‐resource plant species increased pollinator abundance and diversity the most. Plant diversity increased pollinator diversity and abundance only in the absence of high‐resource plants. Pollination facilitation was observed in high‐resource treatments, but varied among plant species. Competition for pollinators was observed in high‐diversity treatments but did not affect seed set for high‐resource plants in any of the treatments. Our results suggest that managers or landowners planting small‐scale pollinator habitat should prioritize including species with high nectar production, and secondarily, a diverse mix of species if space and resources allow. The protocols we used to monitor pollinators can be used by community science observers with limited training, expanding the potential for assessment of future pollinator habitat restoration projects. Shared research identifying features critical to effective restoration will help conserve plant–pollinator mutualisms across landscapes.
A satellite‐based mobile warning system to reduce interactions with an endangered species
Authors: Breece Matthew W. , Oliver Matthew J. , Fox Dewayne A. , Hale Edward A. , Haulsee Danielle E. , Shatley Matthew , Bograd Steven J. , Hazen Elliott L. , Welch Heather
Published: April 2021

Earth‐observing satellites are a major research tool for spatially explicit ecosystem nowcasting and forecasting. However, there are practical challenges when integrating satellite data into usable real‐time products for stakeholders. The need of forecast immediacy and accuracy means that forecast systems must account for missing data and data latency while delivering a timely, accurate, and actionable product to stakeholders. This is especially true for species that have legal protection. Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus (Atlantic sturgeon) were listed under the United States Endangered Species Act in 2012, which triggered immediate management action to foster population recovery and increase conservation measures. Building upon an existing research occurrence model, we developed an Atlantic sturgeon forecast system in the Delaware Bay, USA. To overcome missing satellite data due to clouds and produce a 3‐d forecast of ocean conditions, we implemented data interpolating empirical orthogonal functions (DINEOF) on daily observed satellite data. We applied the Atlantic sturgeon research model to the DINEOF output and found that it correctly predicted Atlantic sturgeon telemetry occurrences over 90% of the time within a 3‐d forecast. A similar framework has been utilized to forecast harmful algal blooms, but to our knowledge, this is the first time a species distribution model has been applied to DINEOF gap‐filled data to produce a forecast product for fishes. To implement this product into an applied management setting, we worked with state and federal organizations to develop real‐time and forecasted risk maps in the Delaware River Estuary for both state‐level managers and commercial fishers. An automated system creates and distributes these risk maps to subscribers’ mobile devices, highlighting areas that should be avoided to reduce interactions. Additionally, an interactive web interface allows users to plot historic, current, future, and climatological risk maps as well as the underlying model output of Atlantic sturgeon occurrence. The mobile system and web tool provide both stakeholders and managers real‐time access to estimated occurrences of Atlantic sturgeon, enabling conservation planning and informing fisher behavior to reduce interactions with this endangered species while minimizing impacts to fisheries and other projects.
An integrated simulation method for soil‐structure interaction analysis of nuclear structures
Authors: Huang Xu , Kwon Oh‐Sung , Kwon Tae‐Hyun
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the development, implementation and application of an integrated simulation method for non‐linear soil‐structure interaction (SSI) analysis of nuclear structures. The integrated simulation method allows decomposition of the soil‐structure system into three subsystems: the superstructure, the soil‐foundation interface, and the soil domain. Each decomposed subsystem can be modelled independently using a proper finite element analysis program to accurately represent its non‐linear behaviour as per the current guideline for non‐linear SSI analysis of nuclear structures. The integrated simulation method is applicable to both static and dynamic analysis cases. The method was applied to the detailed SSI analysis of a realistic nuclear containment structure. The analysis was benefited by using different analysis tools for the three subsystems to capture both material and geometrical nonlinearities such as sliding and gapping at the soil‐foundation interface. The integrated model was compared with the model based on the fixed‐base assumption. Different results address the importance of non‐linear SSI analysis for seismic performance assessment of nuclear structures.
Antenna selection in nonorthogonal multiple access multiple‐input multiple‐output systems aided by machine learning
Authors: de Souza Junior Wilson , Bruza Alves Thiago A. , Abrão Taufik
Published: April 2021

This work proposes a transmitter antenna selection (TAS) method for multiple‐input multiple‐out (MIMO) nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) that is a promising multiple access technique for the fifth generation mobile communications systems. Specifically, we propose to activate the more suitable subset of base station antennas while allocating users into appropriate NOMA clusters such that the system operates in energy efficiency mode, selecting such appropriate antenna subset indexes that maximize the sum‐rate (SR) of the NOMA‐MIMO system. Once that the TAS based on exhaustive‐search is very complex to be implemented in real communication systems, we propose an effective TAS method based on machine learning while keeping very promising performance. A convolutional neural network‐based transmitter antenna selection (CNN‐TAS) method is proposed for efficiently select antennas aiming at maximizing the system SR. Hence, extensive numerical results demonstrate that the CNN‐TAS can suitably learn the problem, performing with very high accuracy choosing properly the antenna subset that maximizes the system spectral efficiency while reducing substantially the processing time of real‐time operations.
Variable impacts on growth of deficit irrigation on Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt Davy and Poa pratensis L
Authors: Burgin Hanna R. , Wear Glenl A. , Hansen Neil C. , Hopkins Bryan G.
Published: April 2021

As average global temperatures rise, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt Davy (triploid interspecific hybrid bermudagrass; HBG) may be increasingly suited for traditionally cooler climates where Poa pratensis L. (Kentucky bluegrass; KB) is common. The objective of this study is to evaluate growth for two HBG cultivars (‘DT‐1’ and ‘NorthBridge Turf Bermudagrass’) compared with KB in all combinations of deficit, moderate, and high irrigation. The HBG had significantly more shoot and root biomass and root depth than KB, with the latter having a higher shoot to root ratio. Differing responses to deficit irrigation were also observed between the two HBG cultivars. When drought stressed, NorthBridge Turf Bermudagrass seems to send roots deeper into the soil to capture the water stored there while DT‐1 grows thicker masses of roots at a shorter depth to maximize its ability to capture water near the surface. These data provide a direct comparison of HBG and KB—quantifying the response for root and shoot growth under deficit irrigation when grown under cool‐season conditions. These data suggest that irrigation needs, especially in regions with increasing water scarcity, will likely be less for HBG than KB as a function of more extensive root systems.
Effects of mobile phone emissions on human red blood cells
Authors: Chowdhury Aniket , Singh Yashveer , Das Uttam , Waghmare Deepak , Dasgupta Raktim , Majumder Shovan Kumar
Published: April 2021

Raman spectroscopy was performed on GSM 900 and 1800 MHz mobile phone signal exposed red blood cells (RBCs). The observed changes in the Raman spectra of mobile signal exposed RBCs compared to unexposed control suggest reduced hemoglobin‐oxygen affinity for the exposed cells. The possible mechanism may involve activation of the voltage gated membrane Ca2+ channels by the mobile phone emissions resulting in an increase in the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate (2,3‐DPG) in cells via altered metabolic activities. Further studies carried out with fluorescent Ca2+ indicator confirmed increased intracellular Ca2+ level in the exposed cells. Since intracellular ATP level influences the shape and mechanics of RBCs, exposed cells were studied using diffraction phase microscopy and optical tweezers. Detectable changes in shape and mechanical properties were observed due to mobile signal exposure.
Cationic chitosan‐modified silica nanoparticles for oral delivery of protein vaccine
Authors: Wu Xi , Farooq Muhammad Asim , Li Tiantian , Geng Tianjiao , Kutoka Perpeuta Takunda , Wang Bo
Published: April 2021

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles coated with Chitosan are exploited here as a potential carrier for oral vaccine delivery. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was used as a protein antigen model to reveal the carrier property. Chitosan‐coated BSA‐loaded silica NPs had particle size 345 ± 60 nm with a cationic surface charge of 18.28 ± 0.71 mV. The encapsulation efficiency, drug loading was 25.34 ± 0.76 and 20.21 ± 0.48%, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy investigation showed the spherical shape of NPs, also confirmed surface coating around modified nanoparticles (NPs), and nitrogen absorption/desorption isotherm confirmed mesostructured inside the NPs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy did not show any physiochemical interactions between excipients and formulations. The structural stability of antigen after release from NPs was confirmed by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis, and chitosan‐coated silica NPs exhibited a slow‐release pattern. The results of in vivo experiments presented that chitosan‐mesoporous silica NPs could induce a robust immune response in mice, indicating that chitosan‐mesoporous silica NPs might be used as a promising carrier for oral vaccine delivery.
Zinc‐ and strontium‐ co‐incorporated nanorods on titanium surfaces with favorable material property, osteogenesis, and enhanced antibacterial activity
Authors: Chen Yanqi , Zhou Chuan , Xie Yiwen , Xu Antian , Guan Ye , Lu Wei , Wang Xiaoxiang , He Fuming
Published: April 2021

Early infection and peri‐implantitis after implant restoration are major reasons for dental implant failure. Implant‐associated infections are majorly attributed to biofilm formation. In this study, co‐incorporated zinc‐ (Zn‐) and strontium‐ (Sr‐) nanorod coating on sandblasted and acid‐etched (SLA) titanium (SLA‐Zn/Sr) was fabricated by hydrothermal synthesis. It was aimed at promoting osteogenesis while inhibiting biofilm formation. The nanorod‐like particles (φ 30–50 nm) were found to be evenly formed on SLA‐Zn/Sr (Zn: 1.49 ± 0.16 wt%; Sr: 21.69 ± 2.74 wt%) that was composed of well‐crystallized ZnTiO3 and SrTiO3 phases. With a sufficient interface bonding strength (42.00 ± 3.00 MPa), SLA‐Zn/Sr enhanced the corrosion resistance property of titanium. Besides, SLA‐Zn/Sr promoted the cellular initial adhesion, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs in vitro while inhibiting the adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus and Porphyromonas gingivalis . In addition, through down‐regulating icaA gene expression, this novel surface reduced the secretion of polysaccharide intercellular adhesion (reduced by 87.9% compared to SLActive) to suppress the S. aureus biofilm formation. We, therefore, propose a new chemical modification on titanium for multifunctional implant material development. Due to the Zn/Sr co‐doping in coating, material properties, early osteogenic effect and antibacterial ability of titanium can be simultaneously enhanced, which has the potential to be applied in dental implantation in the future.
Benchmark calculations of proton affinity and gas‐phase basicity using multilevel (G4 and G3B3), B3LYP and MP2 computational methods of para‐substituted benzaldehyde compounds
Authors: Safi Zaki S. , Wazzan Nuha
Published: April 2021

This study presents the benchmark calculations of proton affinities (PAs) and gas‐phase basicities (GBs) of 8‐para substituted benzaldehyde compounds using the multilevel model chemistries (G3B3 and G4), density‐functional quantum model (B3LYP) and ab initio model (MP2). The results show that the computed properties are strongly correlated with the available experimental data. The PAs and the GBs of other eight para‐substituted benzaldehyde compounds, for which the experimental data does not currently exist, have been calculated using G3B3 and B3LYP methods. The correlations between the experimental PAs and GBs with the computed properties such as PA, GB, chemical properties (bond lengths, electron density and δ1H NMR chemical shift) of the investigated benzaldehydes have been studied and statistically analyzed. The influence of the substituted groups has been discussed in terms of inductive effect and electron donating and electron withdrawing effect. The results obtained show that the chemical properties of the benzaldehyde compounds are controlled by the strong coupling between the CHO group and the nature of the para‐substituent groups through the benzene ring as a conducting linkage.
Development of sustainable and efficient nanocatalyst based on polyoxometalate/nickel oxide nanocomposite: A simple and recyclable catalyst for reduction of nitroaromatic compounds
Authors: Kurbah Sunshine Dominic
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we report the synthesis and characterization of NiO@PolyMo nanocomposite. The newly synthesized nanocomposite was characterized by transmission electronmicroscopy (TEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The particle sizes of the NiO@PolyMo nanocatalyst are in the range of 10–20 nm. Powder XRD patterns show that the phase of NiO@PolyMo remains unaltered even after the functionalization of NiO. The lattice fringes of d = 0.20 nm were observed, which correspond to the (111) plane of NiO phase. The newly synthesized material shows excellent catalytic performance and good selectivity for reduction of nitroarenes. The advantages of the present protocols are mild, and can be carried out using water as a solvent, which is an eco‐friendly benign.
Evaluation of the microhardness of different resin‐based dental restorative materials treated with gastric acid: Scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis
Authors: Ünal Murat , Candan Merve , İpek İrem , Küçükoflaz Merve , Özer Ali
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study is to evaluate the microhardness, relative surface roughness, and elemental changes of resin‐based dental restorative materials (RDRMs) after gastric acid treatment. Five different RDRMs (Group 1 [Filtek Z550], Group 2 [Beautifil II], Group 3 [Vertise Flow], Group 4 [Dyract XP], Group 5 [Fuji II LC]) were used. Samples were formed by using plexiglass molds of 10 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness. A total of 50 samples (n = 10) for microhardness tests and a total of 15 samples (n = 3) for scanning electron microscopy (SEM)–energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis were prepared. All samples of each group were treated to gastric acid, simultaneously. A Vickers microhardness tester was used to evaluate the microhardness of the upper surfaces of each sample. SEM–EDX system was used for microstructure and elemental composition detection. The SEM–EDX, microhardness and relative surface roughness analysis were made prior to treatment in gastric acid for 14 days and analysis were repeated on the 14th day. As the difference in the microhardness values of RDRMs was compared, the time‐dependent variation in all RDRMs was found to be statistically significant. It was observed that a drastic decrease in microhardness values was in Beautifil II, Filtek Z550, Vertise Flow, Fuji II LC, and Dyract XP, respectively. Average decrease rate of microhardness values compared to the initial state can be listed from high to low as Beautifil II (%35.72), Vertise Flow (% 28.88), Fuji II LC (% 21.09), Dyract XP (%17.60), and Filtek Z550 (% 16.58). As a result, in in‐vitro conditions gastric acid decreased microhardness while increasing the relative surface roughness of RDRMs.
Nitrogen dynamics and nitrogen‐to‐phosphorus stoichiometry in cold region agricultural streams
Authors: Friesen‐Hughes Karl , Casson Nora J. , Wilson Henry F.
Published: April 2021

Cold agricultural regions are getting warmer and experiencing shifts in precipitation patterns, which affect hydrological transport of nutrients through reduced snowpack and higher annual proportions of summer rainfall. Previous work has demonstrated that the timing of phosphorus (P) concentrations is regionally coherent in streams of the northern Great Plains, suggesting a common climatic driver. There has been less investigation into patterns of stream nitrogen (N), despite its importance for water quality. Using high‐frequency water quality data collected over 6 yr from three southern Manitoba agricultural streams, the goal of this research was to investigate seasonal patterns in N and P concentrations and the resultant impacts of these patterns on N/P stoichiometry. In the spring, high concentrations of inorganic N were associated with snowmelt runoff, while summer N was dominated by organic forms; inorganic N concentrations remained consistently low in the summer, suggesting increased biological N transformation and N removal. Relationships between N concentration and discharge showed generally weak model fits (r2 values for significant relationships ranging from .33 to .48), and the strength and direction of model fits differed among streams, seasons, and forms of N. Dissolved organic N concentrations were strongly associated with dissolved organic carbon. Nitrogen‐to‐phosphorus ratios varied among streams but were significantly lower during summer storm events (p < .0001). These results suggest that climate‐driven shifts in temperature and precipitation may negatively affect downstream water quality in this region.
Catalyst‐free synthesis of quinazolinones by oxidative cyclization under visible light in the absence of additives
Authors: Yang Jiangnan , Xie Zongbo , Chen Zhongsheng , Jin Liang , Li Qian , Le Zhanggao
Published: April 2021

A general metal‐free oxidative cyclization route was developed to synthesize quinazolinones under visible light. A series of substituted 2‐aminobenzamides were reacted with aldehydes or ketones to produce the desired quinazolinones in good yields. Most importantly, the reaction did not require excess oxidant or high temperatures.
The Associations Between Lung Ultrasonography Scores in the First Day of Life and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Gunes Asli Okbay , Karadag Nilgun , Cakir Hakan , Toptan Handan Hakyemez , Karatekin Guner
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To investigate the role of lung ultrasonography (LU) in predicting noninvasive ventilation (NIV) failure and the relationship between lung ultrasonography scores (LUS) with clinical outcomes in neonatal respiratory failure (NRF).

Methods

A prospective, cross‐sectional study was conducted in newborns with NRF who needed NIV and were evaluated by LU. The first LUS (LUS1) was calculated at 2–6 hours and the second (LUS2) at 12–24 hours of life. The patients were divided into NIV failure and NIV non‐failure groups. The relationship between LUS and clinical outcomes was evaluated.

Results

Among 157 neonates, the median (interquartile range) of gestational week and birth weight were 37 weeks (34–39), and 2890 grams (2045–3435), respectively. The reasons for NRF were transient tachypnea of the newborn (n = 92, 58.6%), congenital pneumonia (n = 58, 36.9%), and respiratory distress syndrome (n = 7, 4.5%). The rate of NIV failure was 17.8% (n = 28). Both LUS1 and LUS2 were significantly higher in neonates with NIV failure compared to neonates with NIV non‐failure (P = .001). A cutoff value of LUS1 ≥ 4 predicted NIV failure with 96% sensitivity and 63% specificity. There were positive correlations between LUS and PEEP values, IMV and total MV days, carbon dioxide values, length of hospital stay, and antibiotic days (ρLUS1, P = .843, <.001; .474, <.001; .444, <.001; .258, .001; .212, .008; .270, <.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Lung ultrasound scores were higher in neonates with NIV failure than with NIV non‐failure group, and strongly correlated with end‐expiratory pressure values. Lung ultrasound scores were found to be related with some of the clinical outcomes of the NRF, and this suggested that LUS could provide information about the prognosis of NRF.
Excitonic Emission in Atomically Thin Electroluminescent Devices
Authors: Fu Qiang , Hu Zhenliang , Zhou Mengfan , Lu Junpeng , Ni Zhenhua
Published: April 2021

2D layered materials derived from their bulk counterparts are intriguing platforms for the exploration of novel optoelectronic applications and fundamental physical phenomena. Among the 2D family, 2D semiconductors with sizable bandgaps, such as transitional metal dichalcogenides and black phosphorus, are promising building blocks for next‐generation light‐emitting applications due to their extraordinary optical and photoelectrical properties. Originating from the combined effect of quantum confinement and reduced dielectric screening, the excitonic effect is dominant in ultrathin 2D semiconductors and of essential importance for the performance of 2D light‐emitting diodes (2DLEDs). Herein, a systematic summary and review is presented, where excitonic properties and the main influencing factors, including Coulomb interactions, band structures, carrier dynamics, and external electrical fields, are first analyzed. The recent progress of 2DLEDs as well as their excitonic emission features and electroluminescence manipulation are then introduced. Lastly, the ongoing challenges and future prospects of 2DLEDs are discussed.
Eradication of Intracellular Salmonella Typhimurium by Polyplexes of Acid‐Transforming Chitosan and Fragment DNA
Authors: Edson Julius A. , Chu Weiping , Porwollik Steffen , Tran Kaycee , Iribe Nathalie , McClelland Michael , Kwon Young Jik
Published: April 2021

Antibiotics are highly successful against microbial infections. However, current challenges include rising antibiotic resistance rates and limited efficacy against intracellular pathogens. A novel form of a nanomaterial‐based antimicrobial agent is investigated for efficient treatment of an intracellular Salmonella enterica sv Typhimurium infection. A known antimicrobial polysaccharide, chitosan, is engineered to be readily soluble under neutral aqueous conditions for systemic administration. The modified biologic, named acid‐transforming chitosan (ATC), transforms into an insoluble, antimicrobial compound in the mildly acidic intracellular compartment. In cell culture experiments, ATC is confirmed to have antimicrobial activity against intracellular S. Typhimurium in a concentration‐ and pH‐dependent manner, without affecting the host cells, RAW264.7 macrophages. For improved cellular uptake and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties, ATC is further complexed with fragment DNA (fDNA), to form nano‐sized spherical polyplexes. The resulting ATC/fDNA polyplexes efficiently eradicated S. Typhimurium from RAW264.7 macrophages. ATC/fDNA polyplexes may bind with microbial wall and membrane components. Consistent with this expectation, transposon insertion sequencing of a complex random mutant S. Typhimurium library incubated with ATC does not reveal specific genomic target regions of the antimicrobial. This study demonstrates the utility of a molecularly engineered nanomaterial as an efficient and safe antimicrobial agent, particularly against an intracellular pathogen.
Review on Shielding Mechanism and Structural Design of Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Composites
Authors: Wang Hao , Li Shaonan , Liu Mengyue , Li Jihang , Zhou Xing
Published: April 2021

Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) for electromagnetic interference shielding have received significant attention and shown rapid development. According to the electromagnetic wave interface conduction theory of Schelkunoff, excellent conductive performance and perfect conductive network structure are prerequisites for high shielding efficiency of electromagnetic interference shielding composites. Effective multiple interface reflection absorption, dielectric loss, and hysteresis loss characteristics of the materials are crucial for realizing the regulation of the electromagnetic interference shielding performance of CPCs. Therefore, the structural design of conductive and magnetic network for CPCs is crucial for achieving high shielding performance. In this study, it is established that an electromagnetic shielding composite with a uniform structure is widely used because of its simple preparation process, but its inefficient conductive network causes a high percolation threshold. The inefficiency can be solved by designing a composite structure and improving the efficiency of the conductive network. Currently, common structural designs include segregated structural, layered structural, and foam structural designs. These structural designs effectively solve the problem of high percolation threshold of CPCs and coordinate the contradiction between the performance of electromagnetic interference shielding and other advantages.
A Review on the Impact of Humidity during Electrospinning: From the Nanofiber Structure Engineering to the Applications
Authors: Mailley Domitille , Hébraud Anne , Schlatter Guy
Published: April 2021

Electrospinning is the process of choice for the elaboration of nanofibrous mats. During the process, a thin and continuous charged jet of a polymer solution is traveling from an emitter subjected to a high voltage toward a grounded collector. Although the duration of the jet travel is in the order of few tens of milliseconds, the physical interactions acting between the jet and the air play a key role on the resulting fiber morphology. These interactions mainly rely on the amount of water molecules in air. This review deals with the effect of humidity during electrospinning on solvent evaporation, the solidification rate of nanofibers and finally, on the morphology at length scales ranging from the non‐woven mat, the nanofiber itself down to the polymer crystal. Original electrospinning processes operating under specific environmental conditions as well as specificities encountered in needleless and free‐surface electrospinning dedicated to industrial‐scale mass production are also discussed. Then, it is shown how the control of humidity during electrospinning and the understanding of its influence on the fibrous structure can be exploited to target various applications dedicated to energy, environment, and health. Finally, current challenges and ideas for future research and new developments are presented.
Nicotinamide Protects Against Diet‐Induced Body Weight Gain, Increases Energy Expenditure, and Induces White Adipose Tissue Beiging
Authors: Méndez‐Lara Karen Alejandra , Rodríguez‐Millán Elisabeth , Sebastián David , Blanco‐Soto Rosi , Camacho Mercedes , Nan Madalina N. , Diarte‐Añazco Elena M. G. , Mato Eugènia , Lope‐Piedrafita Silvia , Roglans Núria , Laguna Juan Carlos , Alonso Núria , Mauricio Dídac , Zorzano Antonio , Villarroya Francesc , Villena Josep A. , Blanco‐Vaca Francisco , Julve Josep
Published: April 2021

Scope

Interventions that boost NAD+ availability are of potential therapeutic interest for obesity treatment. The potential of nicotinamide (NAM), the amide form of vitamin B3 and a physiological precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+, in preventing weight gain has not previously been studied in vivo. Other NAD+ precursors have been shown to decrease weight gain; however, their impact on adipose tissue is not addressed.

Methods and results

Two doses of NAM (high dose: 1% and low dose: 0.25%) are given by drinking water to C57BL/6J male mice, starting at the same time as the high‐fat diet feeding. NAM supplementation protects against diet‐induced obesity by augmenting global body energy expenditure in C57BL/6J male mice. The manipulation markedly alters adipose morphology and metabolism, particularly in inguinal (i) white adipose tissue (iWAT). An increased number of brown and beige adipocyte clusters, protein abundance of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), mitochondrial activity, adipose NAD+, and phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase (P‐AMPK) levels are observed in the iWAT of treated mice. Notably, a significant improvement in hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and glucose tolerance is also observed in NAM high‐dose treated mice.

Conclusion

NAM influences whole‐body energy expenditure by driving changes in the adipose phenotype. Thus, NAM is an attractive potential treatment for preventing obesity and associated complications.
Using a Customized Portable Deepwater Electrofisher to Assess Larval Lamprey Populations in Irrigation Canals
Authors: Mueller Robert P. , Lampman Ralph T. , Beals Tyler E.
Published: April 2021

Water diversions are very common in agricultural landscapes, providing water to irrigate a diverse range of crops. Larval Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus are vulnerable to entrainment during the irrigation withdrawals and can be exposed to desiccation or predation during dewatering at the end of the irrigation season. A customized portable deepwater electrofishing system was deployed to determine larval lamprey densities at two large scaled irrigation diversion canals located on the Yakima River in eastern Washington. The system components can be easily transported to a remote survey site due the number of components and minimal total weight. The surveys were conducted in the fall during the dewatering period in 2015 and 2017, and the densities for larval lampreys ranged from 0.8 to 8.8 fish/m2 at the Sunnyside Canal and 4.2 fish/m2 at the Wapato Canal (2015 only). Our results indicate that the use of the deepwater electroshocking system was effective at determining larval lamprey presence and densities in hard-to-sample irrigation canals.
The effect of nanoclay on the nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of high‐density polyethylene
Authors: Sepetcioglu Harun
Published: April 2021

The study's main motivation is to determine the creep behavior of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)‐based nanocomposites in unexpected situations where short‐term constant loading may occur. On this basis, the short‐term creep behavior of 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.% nanoclay reinforced HDPE nanocomposites were investigated at room temperature (23 ± 1°C) and strain rate of 1E‐4 1/s under 8, 12, and 16 MPa stress levels. As the nanoclay reinforcement ratio by weight increased, the creep resistance and modulus of neat HDPE increased at 8 MPa stress level, but they decreased at 12 and 16 MPa stress levels. The absorbed energy that corresponds to the area under the stress–strain curve increase as the stress level increase from 8 to 16 MPa. However, absorbed energy decreases as nanoclay reinforcement increases for 8 MPa. The curves produced from the four‐element Burger's model and Findley's power law models were compared with the creep curves obtained from the experiments. The four‐element Burger model was found to fit the creep curves better than Findley's power‐law model. Also, some regression curves were given for interpolations to give intermediate values of the maximum creep strain values at different stress levels. The presented models can be used to evaluate creep strain, considering the usage fields of parts or semi‐products produced from nanoclay/HDPE nanocomposites.