bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal diversity and mycotoxins detected in maize stored in silo‐bags: a review
Authors: Brito Vanessa D , Achimón Fernanda , Zunino María P , Zygadlo Julio A , Pizzolitto Romina P
Published: January 2022

Silo‐bags are hermetic storage systems that inhibit fungal growth because of their atmosphere with low humidity, as well as low pH and O2 concentrations, and a high CO2 concentration. If a silo‐bag with stored maize loses its hermetic nature, it favors the development of fungi and the production of mycotoxins. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review on the diversity of fungal species and mycotoxins that were reported in maize stored under the environmental conditions provided by silo‐bags. The genera Penicillium, Aspergillus and Fusarium were found more frequently, whereas Acremonium spp., Alternaria sp., Candida sp., Cladosporium sp., Debaryomyces spp., Epiconum sp., Eupenicillium spp., Eurotium sp., Eurotium amstelodami, Hyphopichia spp., Hyphopichia burtonii, Moniliella sp., Wallemia sp. and genera within the orden Mucorales were reported less recurrently. Despite finding a great fungal diversity, all of the studies focused their investigations on a small group of toxins: fumonisins (FBs), aflatoxins (AFs), deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEA), patulin (PAT), toxin T2 (T2) and ochratoxin (OT). Of the FBs, fumonisin B1 and fumonisin B2 presented higher incidence percentages, followed by fumonisin B3. Of the AFs, the only one reported was aflatoxin B1. The mycotoxins DON, ZEA and OT were found with lower incidences, whereas PAT and T2 were not detected. Good management practices of the silo‐bags are necessary to achieve a hermetically sealed environment, without exchange of gases and water with the external environment during the storage period. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Permethrin inhibits tube formation and viability of endothelial cells
Authors: Lee Hee‐Seop , Song Hee‐Jung , Park Yeonhwa , Smolensky Dmitriy , Lee Seong‐Ho
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Exposure to environmental chemicals has been linked with endothelial dysfunction, which is a leading cause of human diseases, including atherosclerosis. Permethrin is a frequently used synthetic pyrethroid insecticide for which longer exposure may cause toxicity in several types of tissues and the development of metabolic diseases, including atherosclerosis, obesity and diabetes. The present study was designed to evaluate the potential adverse effect of permethrin on the function and activity of human endothelial cells.

RESULTS

Permethrin was found to repress migration and tube formation by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in a dose‐dependent manner, as well as to significantly repress their viability after 24 and 48 h of treatment. Furthermore, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was observed in cells treated with permethrin, and the permethrin‐induced repression of cell viability was ROS‐dependent. Permethrin did not influence apoptosis, necrosis or mitochondrial membrane potential in HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study suggest that permethrin represses angiogenesis and viability through ROS‐dependent and cell growth‐, apoptosis‐ and necrosis‐independent means. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Dietary live yeast supplementation alleviates transport‐stress‐impaired meat quality of broilers through maintaining muscle energy metabolism and antioxidant status
Authors: He Tengfei , Ma Jiayu , Mahfuz Shad , Zheng Yuhui , Long Shenfei , Wang Jian , Wu Di , Piao Xiangshu
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

This experiment was to investigate the effect of dietary live yeast (LY, 1 × 1010 CFU g−1) supplementation on serum metabolic parameters, meat quality as well as antioxidant enzyme activity of transported broilers. A total of 192 one‐day‐old broilers were randomly assigned to four treatments with six replicates and eight chicks per replicate: a basal diet without transportation (CON), a basal diet containing 0 (T), 500 (T + LY500) and 1000 mg kg−1 (T + LY1000) LY with 3 h of transportation after feeding for 42 days, respectively. The serum and muscle samples of broilers were collected immediately after 3 h of transportation.

RESULTS

A higher (P < 0.05) final body weight and average daily weight gain were observed in T + LY1000 group compared with CON and T groups. The T + LY1000 group reduced (P < 0.05) the serum lactate contents and improved (P < 0.05) the pH24h and decreased (P < 0.05) the drip loss in muscles of transported‐broilers. Also, the T + LY1000 group enhanced (P < 0.05) the total‐antioxidant capacity and reduced (P < 0.05) the malondialdehyde in serum and muscles. Besides, the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of avian uncoupling protein (avUCP) in muscles was down‐regulated (P < 0.05) of T + LY1000 group compared with T group.

CONCLUSION

Dietary LY supplementation alleviates transport‐stress‐impaired meat quality of broilers through maintaining muscle energy metabolism and antioxidant status. Therefore, LY may serve as a potential protector for broilers under transport stress in the future. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Amaranthus grain as a new ingredient in diets for dairy cows: productive, qualitative, and in vitro fermentation traits
Authors: Calabrò Serena , Oteri Marianna , Vastolo Alessandro , Cutrignelli Monica Isabella , Todaro Massimo , Chiofalo Biagina , Gresta Fabio
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, grain amaranths have attracted attention due to their valuable combination of nutritional traits, with higher protein and oil content than conventional cereals. Before they can be proposed as an unconventional ingredient in animal feed, many aspects still need to be investigated from field production to nutritive value. The present research aimed to study the agronomic traits, proximate composition, and digestibility/degradability, fatty acid profile, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content of two grain amaranth species, Amaranthus cruentus and Amaranthus hypochondriacus (for a total of six accessions), grown in a Mediterranean environment.

RESULTS

Both species showed seed yields comparable to or higher than the traditional cereal crops in the same environment. On the whole, A. cruentus resulted in a higher seed production than A. hypochondriacus. Mexico and Montana accessions, both belonging to A. cruentus, showed the highest yield (3.73 t ha−1, on average). Few differences emerged in nutritive value between species and accessions: the Illinois accession of A. cruentus showed the best performance in terms of in vitro degradability and gas production, but not for volatile fatty acid production; the fermentation kinetics was slowest in the Illinois accession and fastest in the Montana accession of A. cruentus and the India accession of A. hypochondriacus.

CONCLUSION

From a health perspective, the Nebraska accession of A. hypochondriacus represents the best accession, with the lowest saturated fatty acid content and the highest polyunsaturated fatty acid content. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Micron and nano hybrid ufasomes from conjugated linoleic acid, their vesiculation and encapsulation of ginsenoside Rg3
Authors: Liu Huan , Hu Xueyi , Li Lei , Meng Xinyu , Fang Yun , Xia Yongmei
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Unsaturated fatty acids used to form unstable micro‐vesicles, while conjugate linoleic acid (CLA)‐sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) can self‐assembly to stable nano‐conjugate linoleic acid vesicles (nano‐CLAVs). Generally, micro‐capsule could geometrically provide higher loading capacity but also generate concerns in construction convenience, sustained release, bioaccessibility and stability. Hence there is a contradiction between loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency. Therefore, the study of the factors that decide the capsule size falling in nano or micron size with same capsule material would be a benefit to food or drug delivery science.

RESULTS

The micron‐ and nano‐CLAVs were constructed for encapsulation and sustained release of ginsenoside Rg3. The formation mechanism of nano or micron capsule,s the effect of vesicle sizes on encapsulation efficiency, drug loading efficiency and stability of the encapsulated Rg3 were investigated. It was found that with the addition of salt (PBS), the size of CLAVs jumped from nano to micron. Furthermore, the salt concentration is the key factor that decides the vesicle size of nano or micron. The pH at fabrication triggers the vesiculation and dramatically affects the vesicle size over the nano and micron scales.

CONCLUSION

Compared to the nano‐CLAVs, micron vesicles enhanced the loading capacity to 137.6% and the encapsulation efficiency to 138.4%, respectively. Meanwhile, the micron‐CLAVs performed similar sustained release of Rg3 as the nano‐CLAVs did, and was stable for 120 days at room temperature or sustained 98.9% of capsules after centrifuge at 6090 × g for 20 min. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
An investigation of functional quality characteristics and water interactions of navy bean, chickpea, pea, and lentil flours
Authors: Tas Ozan , Ertugrul Ulku , Grunin Leonid , Oztop Mecit Halil
Published: January 2022

Legume flours are great sources of protein, dietary fiber, starch, minerals, and vitamins. In recent years, the utilization of different legume flours in food systems has gained attention due to their sustainable and functional properties. This study aimed to characterize and examine the water interactions of different legume flours: navy bean, chickpea, pea, and lentil. For this purpose, in addition to the standard techniques (proximal analysis, Fourier transform infrared, protein solubility, and water solubility/absorption index), time‐domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD‐NMR) relaxometry was also performed to explain the molecular interactions in the flours. Based on the results, carbohydrate and protein content of legume flours varied from 67.44 to 72.23 (g/100 g dw) and 23.19 to 27.03 (g/100 g dw) with low fat (0.86–5.44 [g/100 g dw]) and moisture content (6.01–8.14 [g/100 g dw]). Despite the slight differences in their compositions being small, moisture, protein, and carbohydrate contents influenced flour–water interactions. Thus, flour–water mixtures were assessed, and findings showed that water solubility index (WSI) followed the order: chickpea > lentil > navy bean > pea, whereas water absorption index (WAI) followed the order: pea > navy bean > lentil > chickpea. T2 relaxation times measured by NMR and protein solubility results were also in accordance with these results. The results of this study demonstrated that legume flours that were investigated offered potential for commercial applications. Because various food applications require different flour–water interactions, a suitable flour can be selected by considering these results.
Light‐driven dynamics between calcification and production in functionally diverse coral reef calcifiers
Authors: Mallon Jennifer , Cyronak Tyler , Hall Emily R. , Banaszak Anastazia T. , Exton Dan A. , Bass Adrian M.
Published: January 2022

Coral reef metabolism underpins ecosystem function and is defined by the processes of photosynthesis, respiration, calcification, and calcium carbonate dissolution. However, the relationships between these physiological processes at the organismal level and their interactions with light remain unclear. We examined metabolic rates across a range of photosynthesising calcifiers in the Caribbean: the scleractinian corals Acropora cervicornis, Orbicella faveolata, Porites astreoides, and Siderastrea siderea, and crustose coralline algae (CCA) under varying natural light conditions. Net photosynthesis and calcification showed a parabolic response to light across all species, with differences among massive corals, branching corals, and CCA that reflect their relative functional roles on the reef. At night, all organisms were net respiring, and most were net calcifying, although some incubations demonstrated instances of net calcium carbonate (CaCO3) dissolution. Peak metabolic rates at light‐saturation (maximum photosynthesis and calcification) and average dark rates (respiration and dark calcification) were positively correlated across species. Interspecies relationships among photosynthesis, respiration, and calcification indicate that calcification rates are linked to energy production at the organismal level in calcifying reef organisms. The species‐specific ratios of net calcification to photosynthesis varied with light over a diurnal cycle. The dynamic nature of calcification/photosynthesis ratios over a diurnal cycle questions the use of this metric as an indicator for reef function and health at the ecosystem scale unless temporal variability is accounted for, and a new metric is proposed. The complex light‐driven dynamics of metabolic processes in coral reef organisms indicate that a more comprehensive understanding of reef metabolism is needed for predicting the future impacts of global change.
Stratification variability in a lagoon system in response to a passing storm
Authors: Kang Xinyi , Xia Meng
Published: January 2022

Shallow lagoon systems with limited river flow and precipitation are often regarded as being well‐mixed; however, stratification can occasionally occur in shallow lagoons in response to intense river runoffs and precipitation. Understanding the stratification behaviors of a shallow lagoon system is critical for future environmental assessment and management strategies. Thus, in this study, stratification and mixing mechanisms in a shallow lagoon system (the Maryland Coastal Bays) were investigated on an episodic scale during Hurricane Sandy (2012) by using a numerical model. The strength of stratification (Brunt‐Väisälä frequency, N in s−1) in the lagoon system varied spatially; and was determined by river flow, precipitation, winds, and remote forcing. During the pre‐Sandy period (October 25–28, 2012), the bays were relatively mixed without sufficient river flow and precipitation. Driven by intense river flow from the northern creeks (peak: 82.47 m3 s−1), high precipitation (peak: 3.29 × 10−6 m s−1), and strong storm winds (mean: 12.15 m s−1) during the Sandy period (October 28–31, 2012), the water column in the northern creeks of the bays became stratified (mean N2: ~ 0.01 s−2). During the post‐Sandy period (October 31–November 3, 2012), the St. Martin River among the northern creeks showed strong stratification (mean N2: ~ 0.03 s−2) due to weaker winds (mean: 5.70 m s−1) and residual high river flow and precipitation from the Sandy period. The wind was found to be the most dominant source of mixing in the bays, while remote forcing and wind regulated the stratification near the Ocean City Inlet.
Substituent Effects on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Resorcinol‐Based Semiaromatic Polyesters
Authors: Goto Tatsuya , Abe Hideki
Published: January 2022

Recently biobased plastics draw attention as eco‐friendly materials, and it is important to study the effects of substituents, which are popularly found in natural products, on the characteristics of the resulted polymers. In this study, twelve resorcinol‐based semiaromatic polyesters are successfully synthesized using four types of resorcinol derivatives (resorcinol, 2‐methylresorcinol, 5‐methylresorcinol, and 2,5‐dimethylresorcinol) and three types of dicarboxylic acids (glutaric acid, adipic acid, and pimelic acid) to investigate the effect of methylation at the 2‐ and 5‐positions in resorcinol. Glass‐transition temperature of the polyesters is located from ‐3.1 to 37.9 °C, and rises with increasing the number of methyl groups in a resorcinol unit. Crystallinity of the polyesters decreases by methylation to a resorcinol unit, except the polyester from 2‐methylresorcinol and pimelic acid. The mechanical properties of the solvent‐cast films for the polyesters are tunable by the site and number of methyl groups in a resorcinol unit. The major thermal degradation of the polyesters is observed above 300 °C, and the minor thermal decomposition appears between 100 and 200 °C for the polyesters without the resorcinol methylated at the 2‐position and pimelic acid unit.
Advertising or recommender systems? A game‐theoretic analysis of online retailer platforms' decision‐making
Authors: Wang Yan , Mei Shue , Zhong Weijun
Published: January 2022

Advertising and recommender systems are two germane demand creation tools to expand the market. We examine the model comprising two manufacturers and one online retailer to study the efficacy of advertising investment based on recommender systems with and without considering cost sharing. Based on game‐theoretic models and numerical analysis in three scenarios, some managerial insights are suggested for online retailers to be the best beneficiary and avoid “free riders.” For the whole supply chain, advertising has a better effect than recommender systems when their coefficients are small. Otherwise, leveraging recommender systems is a predominant strategy for the whole supply chain.
Does feedback effect exist in firms' investment decisions? From the perspective of equity liquidity
Authors: Gao Weiwei , Yang Jiarui , Huang Zhen
Published: January 2022

We explore the relationship between information asymmetries and firms' investment decisions. We find that severe information asymmetries can decrease firms' investment efficiency, especially increasing their over‐investments. In turn, firms' adjustments of their investment decisions towards the target can alleviate information asymmetry. Our results are not only in accordance with the signaling hypothesis, which states that firms' financial decisions carry information that is useful to the public, but also consistent with the feedback hypothesis, which states that outsiders can generate information that guides managers' decisions by trading stocks. Our findings have implications regarding both managers' incentives to be involved in inefficient investments and outsiders' ability to process information.
How incentive affects knowledge transfer performance in corporate user community: The mediating roles of users' transfer willingness and ability
Authors: Dong Jiyuan , Lai Xiumei , Zhao Dali
Published: January 2022

Drawing on the theory of reasoned action and situated cognition, this paper analyzes the influence of community incentive on knowledge transfer performance by assuming that user willingness and ability mediate the relationship between community incentive and knowledge transfer performance. The empirical analysis of the data from 165 companies in China supported the study's hypotheses and community incentive not only had a directly positive effect on knowledge transfer performance but also played an indirect positive role through the mediating effect of users' willingness and ability. In addition, users' willingness and ability had a positively interactive role on knowledge transfer performance in community.
Dairy Intake and Parkinson's Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Domenighetti Cloé , Sugier Pierre‐Emmanuel , Ashok Kumar Sreelatha Ashwin , Schulte Claudia , Grover Sandeep , Mohamed Océane , Portugal Berta , May Patrick , Bobbili Dheeraj R. , Radivojkov‐Blagojevic Milena , Lichtner Peter , Singleton Andrew B. , Hernandez Dena G. , Edsall Connor , Mellick George D. , Zimprich Alexander , Pirker Walter , Rogaeva Ekaterina , Lang Anthony E. , Koks Sulev , Taba Pille , Lesage Suzanne , Brice Alexis , Corvol Jean‐Christophe , Chartier‐Harlin Marie‐Christine , Mutez Eugénie , Brockmann Kathrin , Deutschländer Angela B. , Hadjigeorgiou Georges M. , Dardiotis Efthimos , Stefanis Leonidas , Simitsi Athina Maria , Valente Enza Maria , Petrucci Simona , Duga Stefano , Straniero Letizia , Zecchinelli Anna , Pezzoli Gianni , Brighina Laura , Ferrarese Carlo , Annesi Grazia , Quattrone Andrea , Gagliardi Monica , Matsuo Hirotaka , Kawamura Yusuke , Hattori Nobutaka , Nishioka Kenya , Chung Sun Ju , Kim Yun Joong , Kolber Pierre , van de Warrenburg Bart P.C. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Aasly Jan , Toft Mathias , Pihlstrøm Lasse , Correia Guedes Leonor , Ferreira Joaquim J. , Bardien Soraya , Carr Jonathan , Tolosa Eduardo , Ezquerra Mario , Pastor Pau , Diez‐Fairen Monica , Wirdefeldt Karin , Pedersen Nancy L. , Ran Caroline , Belin Andrea C. , Puschmann Andreas , Hellberg Clara , Clarke Carl E. , Morrison Karen E. , Tan Manuela , Krainc Dimitri , Burbulla Lena F. , Farrer Matt J. , Krüger Rejko , Gasser Thomas , Sharma Manu , Elbaz Alexis ,   and the Comprehensive Unbiased Risk Factor Assessment for Genetics and Environment in Parkinson's Disease (Courage‐PD) Consortium
Published: January 2022

Background

Previous prospective studies highlighted dairy intake as a risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD), particularly in men. It is unclear whether this association is causal or explained by reverse causation or confounding.

Objective

The aim is to examine the association between genetically predicted dairy intake and PD using two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

We genotyped a well‐established instrumental variable for dairy intake located in the lactase gene (rs4988235) within the Courage‐PD consortium (23 studies; 9823 patients and 8376 controls of European ancestry).

Results

Based on a dominant model, there was an association between genetic predisposition toward higher dairy intake and PD (odds ratio [OR] per one serving per day = 1.70, 95% confidence interval = 1.12–2.60, P = 0.013) that was restricted to men (OR = 2.50 [1.37–4.56], P = 0.003; P‐difference with women = 0.029).

Conclusions

Using MR, our findings provide further support for a causal relationship between dairy intake and higher PD risk, not biased by confounding or reverse causation. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Where Do Parkinson's Disease Patients Look While Walking?
Authors: Vanegas‐Arroyave Nora , Chen Denise F. , Lauro Peter M. , Norato Gina , Lungu Codrin , Hallett Mark
Published: January 2022

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with gait and visuomotor abnormalities, but it is not clear where PD patients look during ambulation.

Objective

We sought to characterize the visual areas of interest explored by PD patients, with and without freezing of gait (FOG), compared to healthy volunteers (HVs).

Methods

Using an eye‐tracking device, we compared visual fixation patterns in 17 HVs and 18 PD patients, with and without FOG, during an ambulatory and a nonambulatory, computer‐based task.

Results

During ambulation, PD patients with FOG fixated more on proximal areas of the ground and less on the target destination. PD patients without FOG displayed a fixation pattern more similar to that of HVs. Similar patterns were observed during the nonambulatory, computer‐based task.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest increased dependence on visual feedback from nearby areas in the environment in PD patients with FOG, even in the absence of motor demands. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Ultra‐high dose rate electron beams and the FLASH effect: From preclinical evidence to a new radiotherapy paradigm
Authors: Schüler Emil , Acharya Munjal , Montay‐Gruel Pierre , Loo Billy W. , Vozenin Marie‐Catherine , Maxim Peter G.
Published: January 2022

In their seminal paper from 2014, Fauvadon et al. coined the term FLASH irradiation to describe ultra‐high‐dose rate irradiation with dose rates greater than 40 Gy/s, which results in delivery times of fractions of a second. The experiments presented in that paper were performed with a high‐dose‐per‐pulse 4.5 MeV electron beam, and the results served as the basis for the modern‐day field of FLASH radiation therapy (RT). In this article, we review the studies that have been published after those early experiments, demonstrating the robust effects of FLASH RT on normal tissue sparing in preclinical models. We also outline the various irradiation parameters that have been used. Although the robustness of the biological response has been established, the mechanisms behind the FLASH effect are currently under investigation in a number of laboratories. However, differences in the magnitude of the FLASH effect between experiments in different labs have been reported. Reasons for these differences even within the same animal model are currently unknown, but likely has to do with the marked differences in irradiation parameter settings used. Here, we show that these parameters are often not reported, which complicates large multistudy comparisons. For this reason, we propose a new standard for beam parameter reporting and discuss a systematic path to the clinical translation of FLASH RT.
When street‐level implementation meets systemic corruption
Authors: Gofen Anat , Meza Oliver , Pérez Chiqués Elizabeth
Published: January 2022

To better understand street‐level bureaucracy in developing countries, this study focuses on street‐level implementation as embedded within systemic corruption, which is well‐documented in the developing world. Analysis focuses on a large city in Guanajuato, which exhibits among the highest corruption rates in Mexico. To allow for a broad perspective, the analysis applies a sequential exploratory mixed‐method research design and draws on in‐depth interviews with varied stakeholders (N = 17) and a representative survey of street‐level bureaucrats (SLBs) (N = 594). Findings indicate that organizational corruption (ORG‐C) and street‐level corruption (SL‐C) are two distinct, yet related phenomena. Additionally, SLBs' perceptions about the level of corruption both among superiors and among colleagues are associated with their tolerance towards inappropriate street‐level interactions with citizens. By shifting attention to street‐level implementation as embedded within a corrupt environment, this study provides new theoretical and practical insights about street‐level implementation in developing countries and about the unique challenges of fighting systemic corruption. Policy impact statement: Common anticorruption policies often reflect an assumption that higher‐level ORG‐C and SL‐C are separate, isolated phenomena, thus overlooking the implications of systemic corruption environments for street‐level implementation in general, and for SL‐C in particular. By uncovering that the willingness for street‐level divergence among SLBs is influenced by their perception of corruption established by municipal administration as well as by colleagues, this study emphasizes that fighting corruption should account for the interrelationships between corruption at different organizational levels.
Preparation and characterization of highly elongated polydimethylsiloxane nanosheets
Authors: Mihara Sho , Takeoka Shinji
Published: January 2022

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a biocompatible polymer that exhibits high flexibility and heat resistance. PDMS can be rapidly cross‐linked at low temperatures by a platinum‐catalyzed addition reaction and is used to create nanostructures owing to its high formability. In this study, free‐standing PDMS thin films (PDMS nanosheets) were fabricated and characterized. PDMS nanosheets, about 90–2500 nm thick, were prepared using a microgravure coater. The mechanical properties of the PDMS nanosheets depended on the amount of cross‐linker added in preparation. For example, a 93‐nm‐thick PDMS nanosheet showed high flexibility with elongation at break of 338% and Young's modulus of 0.46 MPa. The adhesion strength of the PDMS nanosheets was also dependent on the amount of cross‐linker, and the lesser the cross‐linker, the higher the adhesion strength. The PDMS nanosheets showed no change in physical properties when annealed at 150°C. Flexible, adhesive, and heat‐resistant PDMS nanosheets were demonstrated as a substrate for skin‐contact strain sensors and showed resistance changes of 20%–30% in response to skin stretching.
Outcomes of children and young adults with T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma who present in critical status
Authors: Wayne Nicole J. , Li Yimei , Chung Perry , Coffan Kristin , Rheingold Susan R.
Published: January 2022

Background

Patients with T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoma (T‐ALL/LLy) commonly present with critical features such as hyperleukocytosis and mediastinal mass, which complicates completing a diagnostic and staging workup and prevents clinical trial enrollment.

Procedure

Consecutive patients with T‐ALL/LLy from 1999 to 2019 at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia were analyzed for pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission and various high‐risk features as well as clinical trial enrollment and outcome.

Results

We identified 153 patients newly diagnosed with T‐ALL/LLy, 53 (35%) required PICU‐level care within 24 hours and 73 (48%) within 7 days. Non‐PICU patients had a significantly higher clinical trial enrollment rate (79.4%) versus PICU patients (56.1%, P = 0.016). Patients who enrolled on a clinical trial had similar relapse risk to those who did not enroll (relapse rate 20% vs 29%, P = 0.523). Nineteen patients were precluded from trial participation. Risk of relapse was increased for patients admitted to the PICU within 24 hours (26% vs 13%, P = 0.048). Forty‐four patients with T‐ALL presented with hyperleukocytosis, of which 30% relapsed versus 14% without (P = 0.082). Patients who underwent apheresis for hyperleukocytosis were statistically more likely to relapse (47% vs 15%, P = 0.007). Patients with elevated uric acid (20% vs 16%, P = 0.278), mediastinal mass (20% vs 14%, P = 0.501), or required emergent steroids (20% vs 16%, P = 0.626) had a similar relapse risk. A single second relapse patient survived.

Conclusions

Almost half of T‐ALL/LLy patients required PICU‐level care at diagnosis, making enrollment on clinical trials challenging, but trial enrollment predicted better outcome. Physicians should balance maintaining eligibility with safety to offer patients all options.
Patients' choices and opinions on chorionic villous sampling and non‐invasive alternatives for prenatal testing following preimplantation genetic testing for hereditary disorders: A cross‐sectional questionnaire study
Authors: Toft Christian L. F. , Diemer Tue , Ingerslev Hans J. , Pedersen Inge S. , Adrian Stine W. , Kesmodel Ulrik S.
Published: January 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate choices of and reasoning behind chorionic villous sampling and opinions on non‐invasive prenatal testing among women and men achieving pregnancy following preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for hereditary disorders.

Methods

A questionnaire was electronically submitted to patients who had achieved a clinical pregnancy following PGT at the Center for Preimplantation Genetic Testing, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark, between 2017 and 2020.

Results

Chorionic villous sampling was declined by approximately half of the patients. The primary reason for declining was the perceived risk of miscarriage due to the procedure. Nine out of 10 patients responded that they would have opted for a non‐invasive prenatal test if it had been offered. Some patients were not aware that the nuchal translucency scan offered to all pregnant women in the early second trimester only rarely provides information on the hereditary disorder for which PGT was performed.

Conclusion

Improved counseling on the array of prenatal tests and screenings available might be required to assist patients in making better informed decisions regarding prenatal testing. Non‐invasive prenatal testing is welcomed by the patients and will likely increase the number of patients opting for confirmatory prenatal testing following PGT for hereditary disorders.
Molecular histoproteomy by MALDI mass spectrometry imaging to uncover markers of the impact of Nosema on Apis mellifera
Authors: Houdelet Camille , Arafah Karim , Bocquet Michel , Bulet Philippe
Published: January 2022

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI IMS) is a powerful technology used to investigate the spatio‐temporal distribution of a huge number of molecules throughout a body/tissue section. In this paper, we report the use of MALDI IMS to follow the molecular impact of an experimental infection of Apis mellifera with the microsporidia Nosema ceranae. We performed representative molecular mass fingerprints of selected tissues obtained by dissection. This was followed by MALDI IMS workflows optimization including specimen embedding and positioning as well as washing and matrix application. We recorded the local distribution of peptides/proteins within different tissues from experimentally infected versus non infected honeybees. As expected, a distinction in these molecular profiles between the two conditions was recorded from different anatomical sections of the gut tissue. More importantly, we observed differences in the molecular profiles in the brain, thoracic ganglia, hypopharyngeal glands, and hemolymph. We introduced MALDI IMS as an effective approach to monitor the impact of N. ceranae infection on A. mellifera. This opens perspectives for the discovery of molecular changes in peptides/proteins markers that could contribute to a better understanding of the impact of stressors and toxicity on different tissues of a bee in a single experiment.
Cell death and changes in primary metabolism: the onset of defence in Eucalyptus in the war against Leptocybe invasa
Authors: de Oliveira Pinto Ismael , Sarmento Maíra Ignacio , Martins Auxiliadora Oliveira , Rocha João Pedro Laurindo , Pinto Glória , Araújo Wagner L. , Soares Amadeu MVM , Sarmento Renato Almeida
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Here, we investigated changes in primary metabolism and cell death around oviposition sites in two hybrid clones of Eucalyptus with different degrees of resistance to Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), as well as tolerance to water deficiency.

RESULTS

We showed that apices of the resistant clone with oviposition had a higher content of amino acids, organic acids and the compound putrescine compared with those of the susceptible clone with oviposition. By contrast, apices of the resistant clone with oviposition had lower sugar and pyruvate organic acid content than those of the susceptible clone with oviposition. Small areas of necrosis were induced around the oviposition sites in the stem apices of Eucalyptus 24 h after infestation. The resistant clone developed larger necrotic areas that showed progressive increases 24–72 h after infestation compared with the susceptible clone, in which cell death was significantly lower and no changes were observed in necrotic area over time. Thus, the programmed death of cells around the egg, modulated by several amino acids, is likely the first defence response of Eucalyptus against L. invasa.

CONCLUSION

Our results serve as the basis for the early identification of key metabolites produced in plants in defence against galling insects. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Genome‐wide identification, characterization and functional analysis of the chitianse and chitinase‐like gene family in Diaphorina citri
Authors: Wu Zhong‐Zhen , Zhang Wan‐Ying , Lin Yi‐Zhu , Li Da‐Qi , Shu Ben‐Shui , Lin Jin‐Tian
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Insect chitinases play vital roles in postembryonic development, especially during the molting process, and are potential targets for the RNA interference (RNAi)‐based insecticidal strategy. Systematic functional analyses of chitinase genes have already been conducted on numerous insect pests, but similar analyses have not been carried out on Diaphorina citri.

RESULTS

Eleven chitinase/chitinase‐like genes and one endo‐β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase (ENGase) gene were identified in the Diaphorina citri genome using various bioinformatic tools. Transcriptomes of the integument and midgut from fifth‐instar nymphs and freshly‐emerged adults of Diaphorina citri were generated and sequenced. Potential functions of 12 chitinase/chitinase‐like genes were examined during nymph–adult transitions. Four chitinase genes, including DcCht5, DcCht7, DcCht10‐1 and DcCht10‐2, were mainly expressed in the integument of fifth‐instar nymphs. These four genes were also up‐regulated significantly under 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) treatments. RNAi‐mediated knockdown of these four genes suggests that they are essential for nymph–adult transition.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated essential roles of the chitinase/chitinase‐like genes during the nymph–adult transition in Diaphorina citri, which are potentially useful targets for controlling the Diaphorina citri pest. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry
Dependence of Phase Structure and Discharge Performance on the Temperature of Perovskite Composited Ceramics
Authors: Zhou Lulu , Liu Jingsong , Zeng Mengshi , Cao Lijia , Xu Hang , Zhang Shuren
Published: January 2022

0.8Sr0.875Pb0.125TiO3–0.2Bi(Mg0.5Zr0.5)O3–x(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 (0.8SPT–0.2BMZ–xKNN, x = 0.015–0.035) ceramics are calcined by solid‐state methods. The phase structures, energy storage, and discharge performance, as well as their temperature stability, are systematically investigated. All samples are verified as a single perovskite structure by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results. The x = 0.03 ceramic possesses excellent temperature stability, meeting the X7R standard for pulsed power capacitors. According to P–E loops calculation, the recoverable energy storage density (W
rec) and efficiency (η) are 1.27 J cm−3 and 90% at 240 kV cm−1, respectively. Moreover, W
rec and η also have good temperature insensitivity over a wide temperature range from 30 to 150 °C. The x = 0.03 ceramic has a high discharge energy density of ≈2.05 J cm−3 and a large power density of ≈143 MW cm−3 at 300 kV cm−1. The excellent temperature insensitivity and large discharge energy density exhibit that the x = 0.03 sample is a potential candidate material for pulsed power capacitors with a wide temperature range.
Bi12Rh3Cu2I5: A 3D Weak Topological Insulator with Monolayer Spacers and Independent Transport Channels
Authors: Carrillo-Aravena Eduardo , Finzel Kati , Ray Rajyavardhan , Richter Manuel , Heider Tristan , Cojocariu Iulia , Baranowski Daniel , Feyer Vitaliy , Plucinski Lukasz , Gruschwitz Markus , Tegenkamp Christoph , Ruck Michael
Published: January 2022

Topological insulators (TIs) are semiconductors with protected electronic surface states that allow dissipation‐free transport. TIs are envisioned as ideal materials for spintronics and quantum computing. In Bi14Rh3I9, the first weak 3D TI, topology presumably arises from stacking of the intermetallic [(Bi4Rh)3I]2+ layers, which are predicted to be 2D TIs and to possess protected edge‐states, separated by topologically trivial [Bi2I8]2− octahedra chains. In the new layered salt Bi12Rh3Cu2I5, the same intermetallic layers are separated by planar, i.e., only one atom thick, [Cu2I4]2− anions. Density functional theory (DFT)‐based calculations show that the compound is a weak 3D TI, characterized by , and that the topological gap is generated by strong spin–orbit coupling (E
g,calc. ∼ 10 meV). According to a bonding analysis, the copper cations prevent strong coupling between the TI layers. The calculated surface spectral function for a finite‐slab geometry shows distinct characteristics for the two terminations of the main crystal faces ⟨001⟩, viz., [(Bi4Rh)3I]2+ and [Cu2I4]2−. Photoelectron spectroscopy data confirm the calculated band structure. In situ four‐point probe measurements indicate a highly anisotropic bulk semiconductor (E
g,exp. = 28 meV) with path‐independent metallic conductivity restricted to the surface as well as temperature‐independent conductivity below 60 K.
Nanoindentation Creep Behavior of Single‐Crystal Bi2Se3 Topological Insulator
Authors: Uzun Utku , Lamuta Caterina , Yetmez Mehmet
Published: January 2022

A single‐crystal Bi2Se3 topological insulator is fabricated using the Bridgman–Stockbarger method. The crystal structure and atomic lattice parameters are identified by X‐ray diffraction analysis. The nanoindentation size effect on creep displacement, activation volume, and strain rate sensitivity (SRS) with different maximum holding loads between 1000 and 5000 μN is investigated using depth‐sensing nanoindentation. Furthermore, the effect of the loading rate on the steady‐state creep displacement and SRS is analyzed and discussed. Results show Bi2Se3's low resistance to plastic deformation and a significant increase of creep displacement with increasing holding load and holding rate. Additionally, creep strain rate, activation volume, and SRS are also calculated from the secondary stage creep, and results are compared with those of other flexible electronic materials.
First‐Principles Calculation of the Electronic Structure of CH3NH3PbI3 under High Pressure
Authors: Zhu Haodong , Deng Shuduan , Li Decong , Kang Kunyong
Published: January 2022

Under the framework of density functional theory (DFT) based on first principles, the local density approximation (LDA) and generalized gradient approximation (GGA) are used to analyze the phase‐transition pressure, band structure, density of states, atom populations, and bond populations of the five phases of CH3NH3PbI3. From the enthalpy of the five phases as a function of pressure, the 2H‐phase transforms into the O‐phase under 2 GPa, and the T‐phase transforms into the C‐phase under 0.3 GPa. The charge density and the charge population analysis show that methyl ammonia is connected by covalent bonds, and the PbI6 octahedron has both ionic and covalent bonds. As the pressure increases, the covalency of the CH and NH bonds in methyl ammonia decreases, while the covalency of the CN bond increases. From the charge density and the density of states, the 2H‐phase and 4H‐phase have indirect bandgaps, while C‐, O‐, and T‐phases have direct bandgaps. The valence band of CH3NH3PbI3 is mainly determined by the I‐5p and Pb‐6s orbitals, and the conduction band is mainly determined by the Pb‐6p orbitals. In addition, this study shows that the bandgap decreases with increasing pressure, and the ideal bandgap can be achieved by adjusting the pressure.
Anion Exchange in Lead Halide Perovskites: An Overview
Authors: Sandeep K. , Padmakumar K. , Ambili K. U. , Jishnu P. , Fousia K. H. , Ramesh A. R. , Rappai John P. , Santhi V. , Shanthil M.
Published: January 2022

Precise tuning of the bandgap of lead halide perovskites by the postsynthetic anion exchange reaction has been considered as one of the best methods to customize their optical/electronic properties. The anion exchange reaction of lead halide perovskites is very fast and occurs at room temperature. The crystal structure of the lead halide perovskites is soft, and hence it facilitates diffusion of the halide ions through the crystal lattice. Through this anion exchange reaction, emission of lead halide perovskites can be tuned in the entire visible range, by varying the amounts of chloride, bromide, and iodide ions from the same synthesis in a cost‐effective manner. Herein, the mechanism involved in the anion exchange reactions and the factors influencing the same are discussed. Also, the discussion is extended to demonstrate how anion exchange process can make lead halide perovskite a more promising candidate for various applications.
Temperature‐Dependent Thermal Conductivity and Interfacial Resistance of Ge‐Rich Ge2Sb2Te5Films and Multilayers
Authors: Kusiak Andrzej , Chassain Clément , Canseco Alejandro Mateos , Ghosh Kanka , Cyrille Marie-Claire , Serra Anna Lisa , Navarro Gabriele , Bernard Mathieu , Tran Nguyet-Phuong , Battaglia Jean-Luc
Published: January 2022

This article reports on the thermal characterization of Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5films and Ge2Sb2Te5/Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5multilayers designed for high‐temperature applications in the field of phase‐change memory. The thermal conductivities of such materials and the thermal boundary resistance with the Si3N4dielectric material are characterized by two different photothermal techniques. The phase change in Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5is found to occur at a temperature higher than that of the Ge2Sb2Te5alloy. The Ge2Sb2Te5/Ge rich Ge2Sb2Te5multilayer has been observed to feature two phase changes corresponding to Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5and Ge2Sb2Te5. Finally, it is estimated that the thermal resistance of the interface separating Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5and Ge2Sb2Te5nanolayers constitutes the multilayer structure and its contribution has been realized to be significant in enhancing the thermal resistance of the multilayer structure.
Raman Spectroscopy as a Key Method to Distinguish the Ferroelectric Orthorhombic Phase in Thin ZrO2‐Based Films
Authors: Materano Monica , Reinig Peter , Kersch Alfred , Popov Maxim , Deluca Marco , Mikolajick Thomas , Boettger Ulrich , Schroeder Uwe
Published: January 2022

Inducing and detecting the polar orthorhombic phase are crucial for the establishment of ferroelectricity in HfO2‐ and ZrO2‐based thin films. Unfortunately, commonly used structural characterization techniques such as grazing incidence angle X‐ray diffraction (GIXRD) only partially allow an accurate detection of this crystalline phase, whose characteristic pattern almost coincides with the one of the tetragonal phase. As a consequence, phase determination is commonly based on peak deconvolution tracing the position of the main peak at 2θvalues of around 30°, which can be assigned both to the t(101) and the o(111) plane directions and additionally be influenced by mechanical stress in the layers. Alternatively, epitaxial layers are required to differentiate the phase. Herein, using an integrated experimental–computational approach, it is shown how Raman spectroscopy can distinguish between the monoclinic, the tetragonal, and the orthorhombic phase of ZrO2. The Raman spectra calculated from first principles match the experimentally measured data and thus enable an unambiguous phase assignment. Therefore, Raman spectroscopy proves to be a powerful technique for discerning the three main crystalline phases in these materials. As demonstrated by the good agreement between structural and electrical data, it can therefore be used to predict ferroelectricity in the addressed layers.
Estimation of a treatment policy estimand for time to event data using data collected post discontinuation of randomised treatment
Authors: Hartley Benjamin , Drury Thomas , Lettis Sally , Mayer Bhabita , Keene Oliver N. , Abellan Juan J.
Published: January 2022

Discontinuation from randomised treatment is a common intercurrent event in clinical trials. When the target estimand uses a treatment policy strategy to deal with this intercurrent event, data after cessation of treatment is relevant to estimate the estimand and all efforts should be made to collect such data. Missing data may nevertheless occur due to participants withdrawing from the study and assumptions regarding the values for data that are missing are required for estimation. A missing‐at‐random assumption is commonly made in this setting, but it may not always be viewed as appropriate. Another potential approach is to assume missing values are similar to data collected after treatment discontinuation. This idea has been previously proposed in the context of recurrent event data. Here we extend this approach to time‐to‐event outcomes using the hazard function. We propose imputation models that allow for different hazard rates before and after treatment discontinuation and use the posttreatment discontinuation hazard to impute events for participants with missing follow‐up periods due to study withdrawal. The imputation models are fitted as Andersen–Gill models. We illustrate the proposed methods with an example of a clinical trial in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.