bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery and characterization of Hv1-type proton channels in reef-building corals
Authors: Rangel-Yescas Gisela , Cervantes Cecilia , Cervantes-Rocha Miguel A , Suárez-Delgado Esteban , Banaszak Anastazia T , Maldonado Ernesto , Ramsey Ian Scott , Rosenbaum Tamara , Islas Leon D
Published: August 2021

Voltage-dependent proton-permeable channels are membrane proteins mediating a number of important physiological functions. Here we report the presence of a gene encoding Hv1 voltage-dependent, proton-permeable channels in two species of reef-building corals. We performed a characterization of their biophysical properties and found that these channels are fast-activating and modulated by the pH gradient in a distinct manner. The biophysical properties of these novel channels make them interesting model systems. We have also developed an allosteric gating model that provides mechanistic insight into the modulation of voltage-dependence by protons. This work also represents the first functional characterization of any ion channel in scleractinian corals. We discuss the implications of the presence of these channels in the membranes of coral cells in the calcification and pH-regulation processes and possible consequences of ocean acidification related to the function of these channels.
Snakes on an African plain: the radiation of Crotaphopeltis and Philothamnus into open habitat (Serpentes: Colubridae)
Authors: Engelbrecht Hanlie M. , Branch William R. , Tolley Krystal A.
Published: August 2021

Background

The African continent is comprised of several different biomes, although savanna is the most prevalent. The current heterogeneous landscape was formed through long-term vegetation shifts as a result of the global cooling trend since the Oligocene epoch. The overwhelming trend was a shift from primarily forest, to primarily savanna. As such, faunal groups that emerged during the Paleogene/Neogene period and have species distributed in both forest and savanna habitat should show a genetic signature of the possible evolutionary impact of these biome developments. Crotaphopeltis and Philothamnus (Colubridae) are excellent taxa to investigate the evolutionary impact of these biome developments on widespread African colubrid snakes, and whether timing and patterns of radiation are synchronous with biome reorganisation.

Methods

A phylogenetic framework was used to investigate timing of lineage diversification. Phylogenetic analysis included both genera as well as other Colubridae to construct a temporal framework in order to estimate radiation times for Crotaphopeltis and Philothamnus. Lineage diversification was estimated in Bayesian Evolutionary Analysis Sampling Trees (BEAST), using two mitochondrial markers (cyt–b, ND4), one nuclear marker (c–mos), and incorporating one fossil and two biogeographical calibration points. Vegetation layers were used to classify and confirm species association with broad biome types (‘closed’ = forest, ‘open’ = savanna/other), and the ancestral habitat state for each genus was estimated.

Results

Philothamnus showed an ancestral state of closed habitat, but the ancestral habitat type for Crotaphopeltis was equivocal. Both genera showed similar timing of lineage diversification diverging from their sister genera during the Oligocene/Miocene transition (ca. 25 Mya), with subsequent species radiation in the Mid-Miocene. Philothamnus appeared to have undergone allopatric speciation during Mid-Miocene forest fragmentation. Habitat generalist and open habitat specialist species emerged as savanna became more prevalent, while at least two forest associated lineages within Crotaphopeltis moved into Afromontane forest habitat secondarily and independently.

Discussion

With similar diversification times, but contrasting ancestral habitat reconstructions, we show that these genera have responded very differently to the same broad biome shifts. Differences in biogeographical patterns for the two African colubrid genera is likely an effect of distinct life-history traits, such as the arboreous habits of Philothamnus compared to the terrestrial lifestyle of Crotaphopeltis.
Seasonal Variation in Epistaxis in Upper Assam Region: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Mili Mohan Kumar , Ghosh Tanushree , Gupta Shilpi , Phookan Jyotirmoy , Saikia Nabajyoti
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Epistaxis whether spontaneous or acquired is one of the most common ENT emergencies. Its management can be challenging depending on the origin of bleeding and presence of precipitating factors. Aim: To find out the seasonal variation in epistaxis according to age, gender, region and aetiological factor. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2019 to June 2020 in a tertiary care centre in Upper Assam. In this study, the seasons were divided according to weather atlas as follows: Winter- December, January, and February; Spring- March and April; Summer- May and June; Rainy season- July, August and September; and Autumn- October and November. Outcome was to find the seasonal variation in epistaxis according to age, gender, region and aetiological factor. The data collected was tabulated in Microsoft Excel Worksheet and the categorical variables were summarised as proportions and percentages. Results: Out of 313 patients, 221 (70.6%) were males and 92 (29.4%) were females. High male preponderance with male to female ratio of 2.4:1 was noticed. Maximum number of patients were seen in month of October 66 cases (21%). Minimum male patients were seen in month of June 2020 (0.6%) 2 cases and minimum number of female patients were seen in the month of February and April (0.3%). Conclusion: The major cause of epistaxis in this region is hypertension, therefore peripheral health facility should be ready for giving treatment.
Assessment of Nutritional Status and its Determinants among Under-five Children in Urban Slum Areas of Gwalior City, Central India
Authors: Gupta Rajesh Kumar , Bansal Manoj , Chouksey Mahendra , Shukla Durgesh , Mungi Sasmita
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Children living in urban slums are vulnerable to malnutrition due to lack of basic health facilities and poor environmental conditions. These make children susceptible to infectious diseases. Data on the correlates of stunting, underweight and wasting specifically among under-five children in central India remain limited, hence the need of this study. Aim: To study the prevalence of underweight, stunting, and wasting with its predictors in under-five children living in slum area. Materials and Methods: It was a community-based cross-sectional study, carried out from March 1, 2018 to February 28, 2019, slum area of Gwalior City, using multistage sampling. Study subjects were under-five children residing in urban slums. Data collection was done by conducting house to house survey and information was recorded in pre-designed questionnaire. Mean, Standard Deviation (SD), frequency and percentage were calculated. Logistic regression was applied to calculate Odds Ratio (OR, 95% CI). Data was analysed using version Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) -16. Results: A total of 550 children (257 boys, 293 girls) under-five years of age were included in the study. The overall prevalence of underweight was 49.1%, stunting was 58.2% and wasting was 23.5%. The risk of underweight, stunting and wasting was less among others caste category (OR:0.42,0.27,0.49). The risk was higher among children living in nuclear family (OR:1.86,1.78,1.72), with illiterate mother (OR:6.47,4.87,3.53), with Illiterate father (OR:4.60,3.65,1.99) and also among people living in kuccha house and using wood as medium of cooking food. Duration of breastfeeding, complementary feeding only, timing of initiation of complementary feeding and birth weight emerged as other significant predictors for underweight, stunting and wasting. Conclusion: Children with low birth weight, belonging to lower socioeconomic class, living in nuclear families and having illiterate parents require special attention and focus. Parents should also be careful in reference to their children’s complementary feeding and duration of breastfeeding.
Short-term Prognostic Value of Admission Cardiac Troponin T, C-Reactive Protein and Echocardiographic Regional Wall Motion Abnormalities in Patients with Acute ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Dhaon Pooja , Uraiya Dharmendra , Tripathi Neeraj
Published: August 2021

Introduction: With increasing burden of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) in India, early risk stratification of patients is as important as making a correct diagnosis. Cardiac Troponin T (cTnT), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and echocardiographic Regional Wall Motion Abnormalities (RWMA) are used to assess the patients of STEMI at presentation. The short term prognostic importance of these parameters also need to be known. Aim: To study the prognostic values of admission Cardiac Troponin T (cTnT), CRP and echocardiographic RWMA in patients with acute STEMI. Materials and Methods: Fifty patients of STEMI were evaluated from January 2017 to July 2017 by Troponin-T (positive >0.18 ng/mL), CRP (positive >3 mg/l) and echocardiography (positive with presence of RWMA) on day one. The patients were divided into three groups: Group 1: patients with all the three parameters positive, Group 2: patients with all three parameters negative, Group 3: patients with one or two parameters positive. The end points observed were heart failure Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LV EF) <40%) assessed by echocardiography at day 28, significant ventricular ectopics (>class II by Lown’s classification) and mortality at day 30 in the groups. Chi-square test for equality of proportions was used to analyse the difference in outcome in the groups. Results: The mean age of patients was 54 years. There were 25 (50%) patients in group 1, 14 (28%) patients in group 2 and 11 (22%) patients in group 3. Twelve (24%) patients had heart failure with 9 (18%) in group 1 and 3 (6%) in group 3 (p<0.05). 9 (18%) patients had significant ventricular ectopics with 8 (16%) patients in group 1 and 1 (2%) patients in group 3 (p<0.05). Mortality was found in 9 (18%) patients with 8 (16%) patients in group 1 and 1 (2%) patients in group 3 (p<0.05). Conclusion: Acute STEMI with high cTnT, CRP and presence of RWMA on echocardiography at admission need more aggressive management and close follow-up.
Development of a Test to Measure the Knowledge Level of Growers on Recommended Cultivation Practices of Major Vegetables
Authors: Borah Kangkana , Das Pabitra Kumar , Barman Indrajit , Parasar Suman , Sultana Sobnam
Published: August 2021

The present study was conducted to construct and standardize a test to measure the knowledge level growers on recommended cultivation practices of major vegetable crops. The major steps followed for developing the test were construction of items, primary and final selection of items through difficulty index, discrimination index and biserial correlation. The final test comprised of 25 objective questions, referred to as items. The procedure adopted in the study can also be followed for developing knowledge test on any other aspect.
Peripheral Neuropathy and Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy among Type II Diabetic Patients: Prevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Surendra B. V. , Muthiah N. S. , Sailaja M. V. , Sreenivasulu K.
Published: August 2021

Background: The two most common chronic complication softype 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are peripheral neuropathy (PN) and Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN).Diagnosing neuropathies at subclinical stage can prevent the morbidity and mortality.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy and cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy and their risk factors in type-II diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: An observational cross sectional study was done from December 2019 to November 2020 in the department of General medicine at tertiary care hospital. 273 type II diabetic patients were selected for this study. Toronto clinical scoring system was used for assessing PN and ewings cardiovascular reflex study was used done to assess CAN. To identify the risk factors of PN and CAN, Logistic regression analysis was used.

Results: The prevalence of PN and CAN was 45.4% and 34.06% respectively, while29.3% participants had both. Smoking (OR: 12.976; 95% CI: 0.052–0.418, P<0.0001) and poor glycaemic control (OR: 27.231; 95% CI: 5.226–38.201, P<0.0001) were independent risk factors of DPN. poorglycaemic control (OR: 26.970; 95% CI: 3.507–16.055, P <0.0001) and Dyslipidimea (OR: 11.792; 95% CI: 0.096–0.526, P ≤ 0.001) were independent predictors of CAN.

Interpretation and Conclusions: PN and CAN are common among diabetic patients, and thus it is recommended to screen Peripheral Neuropathy and CAN in all diabetic patients for the early diagnosis and preventing the debilitating complications
An Ayurvedamanagement of Vataj Kasa – A Case Study
Authors: Baloda Anshul , Patil Aboli , Kumar Amit
Published: August 2021

The Prana and UdanaVayu are responsible for normal functioning of praanvahasrotas, which can be altered due to causative factors in turn lead to manifestation of Kasa which is characterized by these lakshanasShuska gala, Shuskakasa with shuskaalpakapha, Swarbheda, ParshavShool, Shriashool, Urashool, Dourbalya etc. Paediatric age groups are more prone to respiratory tract infections, immunological concerns, and social factors such as school attendance, incorrect eating, and eating habits due to anatomical and physiological characteristics. Ayurveda has a lot of drugs to cure respiratory disorder, So this case study was conducted and get the positive result in treatment.

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of ayurveda management on vatajakasa.

Study Design: Single Case Study

Place: Parul Ayurved Hospital, Parul University, Limda, Vadodara, Gujarat.

Duration Of Study: 14 days and follow up after 7days.

Methodology: Internal medication to reduce the sign and symptoms of vatajkasa.

As a result, this article addresses the problem using Ayurvedic treatment methods like Aparajit Avaleha, which delivers a safe and effective solution.
Nonuremiccalciphylaxis - A Systematic Review
Authors: Albalawi Abdulmajeed , Dighriri Ibrahim , Alsharif Ahad , Basahl Emtenan , Alrajab Fatimah , Alzahuf Shuruq , Alharbi Bashair , Alahmadi Khaled , Alkhathlan Husam , Alharbi Sarah , Aljubairy Amjad , Babaqi Jana , Alotaibi Bader , Mrair Asma , Alhujuri Turki
Published: August 2021

Background: Calciphylaxis, also known as calcific uremic arteriolopathy, is a well-described condition in renal transplant and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients; however, little is known about calciphylaxis induced by nonuremic causes. This systematic study aimed to determine the causes, prognosis of nonuremic calciphylaxis, clinical features and laboratory abnormalities.

Patients and methods:A comprehensive review of the literature for nonuremic calciphylaxis case reports and case series published between 2016 and 2021 was performed. Cases included satisfied the criteria for a histological diagnosis of nonuremic calciphylaxis in the absence of ESKD, renal transplantation, or acute kidney injury requiring renal replacement therapy.

Results: The authors identified 53 cases of nonuremic calciphylaxis (83.14 % women, Caucasian 13.33 %, aged 25 to 83 years). The most prevalent documented associations were of patients having multiple conditions 18 (33.33 %), warfarin-induced (7.4 %), calcium and Vitamin D supplementation (3.7 %), primary hyperparathyroidism (3.7 %), liver disease (3.7 %), Acenocumarol use (3.7 %), Systematic lupus erythematosus (3.7 %), alcoholic cirrhosis (3.7 %), respectively.

Conclusion:When investigating skin lesions in patients with sensitive conditions, calciphylaxis must often be addressed in the absence of ESKD or renal transplantation. Obese women with various underlying illnesses such as alcohol intake, smoking, diabetes, liver disease, and so on are more likely to develop nonuremic calciphylaxis (NUC).Calciphylaxis is linked with high mortality; however, sodium thiosulfate (ST) has made clear progress in terms of treatment, yet there are still areas that need to be addressed to describe the effectiveness of ST.
Social Management in Pharmaceutical Healthcare Sector
Authors: Volodymyrovych Tsekhmister Yaroslav , Tetiana Konovalova , Yaroslavovych Tsekhmister Bogdan
Published: August 2021

Aims: There is an increase in demand for the social environment regulations in the pharmaceutical companies, which is a crucial strategy issue in long-term planning due to the incidence of social influence. The influence of society over resource allocation and its control over innovation is all the perceptions of today's needs. This research aims to highlight the managerial issues faced by the pharmaceutical healthcare sector of Ukraine. Our study is unique as we have analyzed the whole pharmaceutical sector of Ukraine in terms of management issues. There is no such research done yet. In addition, we have also researched the official databases and laid down the models for management practices.

Methodology: The research was done to analyze the major issues in the social management of the pharmaceutical healthcare system. In addition, the related studies based on managerial issues were studied. The following databases were used to study the guidelines: World Health Organisation, Food and Drug Administration, Internationational Council for Harmonization, and European Union.

Results: The results were found to be when comparing behavioural studies with non-behavioural; non-behavioural was found to be 64%, whereas behavioural was 34%. To have an in-depth knowledge of the managerial issues, we have provided an inverted tree diagram representing the significant issues in pricing and medical expenditures. These contributed 21.7% of non-behavioural studies, and in behavioural studies, it was found to be consumer or physician-level behaviour 23.4% contributing the central part of the issue.  

Conclusion: Here we conclude that the pharmaceutical healthcare sector plays a crucial role in the global healthcare of the general public-facing management issues; hence should be analyzed and follow the guidelines to analyze the issues within the company and set goals.   

Therefore, improving the management of the pharma sector will, in turn, improve public health in Ukraine.
Digital endpoints for self‐administered home‐based functional assessment in pediatric Friedreich’s ataxia
Authors: Mueller Arne , Paterson Elaine , McIntosh Avery , Praestgaard Jens , Bylo Mary , Hoefling Holger , Wells McKenzie , Lynch David R. , Rummey Christian , Krishnan Michelle L. , Schultz Meredith , Malanga C. J.
Published: August 2021

Background

Friedreich’s ataxia is an inherited, progressive, neurodegenerative disease that typically begins in childhood. Disease severity is commonly assessed with rating scales, such as the modified Friedreich’s Ataxia Rating Scale, which are usually administered in the clinic by a neurology specialist.

Objective

This study evaluated the utility of home‐based, self‐administered digital endpoints in children with Friedreich’s ataxia and unaffected controls and their relationship to standard clinical rating scales.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study with 25 participants (13 with Friedreich’s ataxia and 12 unaffected controls, aged 6–15 years), home‐based digital endpoints that reflect activities of daily living were recorded over 1 week. Domains analyzed were hand motor function with a digitized drawing, automated analysis of speech with a recorded oral diadochokinesis test, and gait and balance with wearable sensors.

Results

Hand‐drawing and speech tests were easy to conduct and generated high‐quality data. The sensor‐based gait and balance tests suffered from technical limitations in this study setup. Several parameters discriminated between groups or correlated strongly with modified Friedreich’s Ataxia Rating Scale total score and activities of daily living total score in the Friedreich’s ataxia group. Hand‐drawing parameters also strongly correlated with standard 9‐hole peg test scores.

Interpretation

Deploying digital endpoints in home settings is feasible in this population, results in meaningful and robust data collection, and may allow for frequent sampling over longer periods of time to track disease progression. Care must be taken when training participants, and investigators should consider the complexity of the tasks and equipment used.
Long‐term continuation of anti‐seizure medications after acute stroke
Authors: Punia Vineet , Honomichl Ryan , Chandan Pradeep , Ellison Lisa , Thompson Nicolas , Sivaraju Adithya , Katzan Irene , George Pravin , Newey Chris , Hantus Stephen
Published: August 2021

Objective

To investigate the factors associated with the long‐term continuation of anti‐seizure medications (ASMs) in acute stroke patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of stroke patients with concern for acute symptomatic seizures (ASySs) during hospitalization who subsequently visited the poststroke clinic. All patients had continuous EEG (cEEG) monitoring. We generated a multivariable logistic regression model to analyze the factors associated with the primary outcome of continued ASM use after the first poststroke clinic visit.

Results

A total of 507 patients (43.4% ischemic stroke, 35.7% intracerebral hemorrhage, and 20.9% aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage) were included. Among them, 99 (19.5%) suffered from ASySs, 110 (21.7%) had epileptiform abnormalities (EAs) on cEEG, and 339 (66.9%) had neither. Of the 294 (58%) patients started on ASMs, 171 (33.7%) were discharged on them, and 156 (30.3% of the study population; 53.1% of patients started on ASMs) continued ASMs beyond the first poststroke clinic visit [49.7 (±31.7) days after cEEG]. After adjusting for demographical, stroke‐ and hospitalization‐related variables, the only independent factors associated with the primary outcome were admission to the NICU [Odds ratio (OR) 0.37 (95% CI 0.15–0.9)], the presence of ASySs [OR 20.31(95% CI 9.45–48.43)], and EAs on cEEG [OR 2.26 (95% CI 1.14–4.58)].

Interpretation

Almost a third of patients with poststroke ASySs concerns may continue ASMs for the long term, including more than half started on them acutely. Admission to the NICU may lower the odds, and ASySs (convulsive or electrographic) and EAs on cEEG significantly increase the odds of long‐term ASM use.
GPRA has never stopped rearing its ugly head quietly
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2021

The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) as used by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to monitor grants has always been detested. Who wants to have to prove that taxpayer money used to prevent and treat substance use disorders (SUDs) is successful all of the time? But the problems with the GPRA tool, a questionnaire to be filled out by patients, have only magnified in an era in which abstinence has been seen as less important in the success of recovery, an ongoing process. This is also a time in which everyone recognizes that SUDs are chronic and relapsing disorders — not a new fact.
High‐Performance Flexible Schottky DC Generator via Metal/Conducting Polymer Sliding Contacts
Authors: Yang Ruizhe , Benner Matthew , Guo Zipeng , Zhou Chi , Liu Jun
Published: August 2021

Dynamic Schottky direct‐current (DC) generators hold great promise for ambient mechanical energy harvesting as it overcomes the low‐current output limitation in conventional approaches. However, the lack of a fundamental understanding of DC generation in conducting polymer‐based Schottky generators has hindered their application for self‐powered wearable and implantable electronics. Here, a high‐performance, flexible Schottky DC generator with metal/conducting polymer sliding contact system is demonstrated, which exhibits a large current density (J) up to 20 A m–2 for single contact geometry and a scaled‐up DC output reaching 200 µA (J = 0.73 A m–2) and 0.8 V. The design of flexibility in such a Schottky DC generator is inherited from the long‐chain polymer concept, leading to the demonstration of a variety of device configuration of free‐standing thin film, supported thin film and nanocomposite prototype toward practical applications. It is revealed that the sliding junctions may exhibit a different mechanical energy conversion mechanism compared to the compressive conducting polymer Schottky junctions. It is also proven that the magnitude and polarity of DC generation is determined by the Schottky contact formation and interfacial electric field. The concept of a flexible Schottky generator not only shows great promise for next‐generation, self‐powered wearable devices, but also provides potential mechanisms for developing novel wearable sensors.
3D Printing of Bioinspired Alginate‐Albumin Based Instant Gel Ink with Electroconductivity and Its Expansion to Direct Four‐Axis Printing of Hollow Porous Tubular Constructs without Supporting Materials
Authors: Janarthanan Gopinathan , Lee Sumin , Noh Insup
Published: August 2021

A successful 3D printable hydrogel ink needs not only biofunctionalities but also minimal fabrication steps such as multiple crosslinking sites, high printability, cytocompatibility, high shape fidelity, stability, shear thinning, robust properties, and less time‐consuming processing steps, by maximizing known material chemistries and functionalities. This work reports a novel bioinspired conjugate with polysaccharide (alginate)–tannic acid (TA)–protein (bovine serum albumin) to fabricate proteoglycan‐like gels, which are 3D printable with multilayers, shear‐thinning, elastic, electroconductive (with carbon nanotubes), controlled crosslinking/degradation through multiple crosslinking mechanisms (TA, Ca2+ions, and NaIO4oxidation), and interactions with cytocompatible hydrogel system. The synthesis process is simple, and gelation (within 2 h) is ensured without any chemical crosslinking agents (at room temperature). While cell‐adhesive albumin largely improves cytocompatibility, carbon nanotubes in the gel give electrical conductivity in the different four‐axis 3D printed structures, including large hollow tubular constructs. This work demonstrates promising results of electroconductive proteoglycan‐like gel ink to address the challenges in 3D/four‐axis ink printing such as synthesis, printability, shape fidelity, electroconductivity, controlled fabrication and degradation, cytocompatibility, and multiple crosslinking abilities to maintain the dimensions of the diversely printed constructs.
Spin‐Dependent Charge Transport in 1D Chiral Hybrid Lead‐Bromide Perovskite with High Stability
Authors: Lu Ying , Wang Qian , Chen Ruyi , Qiao Leilei , Zhou Foxin , Yang Xia , Wang Dong , Cao Hui , He Wanli , Pan Feng , Yang Zhou , Song Cheng
Published: August 2021

Spin‐dependent charge transport, along with the potential electronic applications, is investigated in chiral 2D iodide hybrid organic/inorganic perovskites (HOIPs) via the chirality‐induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect, paving a new way in spintronics. Despite the high spin‐polarized current enhancement, the intrinsic oxidation tendency of iodide ions brings about severe problems in the stability and lifetime of electronic devices. Here, spin‐dependent charge transport properties in lead‐bromide perovskites hybrid with chiral R/S‐methylbenzylammonium (MBA), that is, (R/S‐MBA)PbBr3 are explored. Distinct from layered 2D iodide perovskites (R/S‐MBA)2PbI4 which experience obvious crystal degradation along time, (R/S‐MBA)PbBr3 maintain good crystallinity even in the oxidative, humid, and high‐temperature environment due to the lower Fermi level of bromide than iodide. Magnetic conductive atomic force microscopy displays a spin filtration efficiency as high as 90%, showing negligible decay after 1 month. This work expands the spin transport to chiral bromide perovskites with higher stability, and thus provides significant support for the practical application of HOIPs in spintronics.
Controlling Interfacial Reduction Kinetics and Suppressing Electrochemical Oscillations in Li4Ti5O12 Thin‐Film Anodes
Authors: Chen Yue , Pan Handian , Lin Chun , Li Jiaxin , Cai Rongsheng , Haigh Sarah J. , Zhao Guiying , Zhang Jianmin , Lin Yingbin , Kolosov Oleg V. , Huang Zhigao
Published: August 2021

Understanding the fundamentals of surface decoration effects in phase‐separation materials, such as lithium titanate (LTO), is important for optimizing the lithium‐ion battery (LIB) performance. LTO polycrystalline thin‐film electrodes with and without doped Al–ZnO (AZO) surface coating decoration are used as ideal models to gain insights into the mechanisms involved. Operando shear force modulation spectroscopy is used to observe for the first time the nanoscale dynamics of solid‐electrolyte‐interphase (SEI) formation on the electrode surfaces, confirming that the AZO coating is electrochemically converted into a stiff, homogenous SEI layer that protects the surface from the electrolyte‐induced decomposition. This AZO layer and its resultant artificial SEI‐layer have higher Li‐ion transport rates than the unmodified surface. These layers can reduce barriers to surface nucleation and facilitate rapid redistribution of lithium‐ions during the Li4Ti5O12 ⇄ Li7Ti5O12 phase separation, significantly inhabiting the orderly collective phase‐separation behavior (electrochemical oscillation) in the LTO electrode. The suppressed voltage oscillations indicate more homogeneous local exchange current density and de/intercalation states with the decorated electrodes, thereby extending their battery efficiency and long‐term cycling stability. This work highlights the ultimate importance of surface treatment for LIB materials for determining their interfacial chemistry and phase transition during the intercalation/deintercalation.
Metavalent Bonding in Crystalline Solids: How Does It Collapse?
Authors: Guarneri Ludovica , Jakobs Stefan , von Hoegen Alexander , Maier Stefan , Xu Ming , Zhu Min , Wahl Sophia , Teichrib Christian , Zhou Yiming , Cojocaru‐Mirédin Oana , Raghuwanshi Mohit , Schön Carl‐Friedrich , Drögeler Marc , Stampfer Christoph , Lobo Ricardo P. S. M. , Piarristeguy Andrea , Pradel Annie , Raty Jean‐Yves , Wuttig Matthias
Published: August 2021

The chemical bond is one of the most powerful, yet much debated concepts in chemistry, explaining property trends in solids. Recently, a novel type of chemical bonding was identified in several higher chalcogenides, characterized by a unique property portfolio, unconventional bond breaking, and sharing of about one electron between adjacent atoms. This metavalent bond is a fundamental type of bonding in solids, besides covalent, ionic, and metallic bonding, raising the pertinent question as to whether there is a well‐defined transition between metavalent and covalent bonds. Here, three different pseudo‐binary lines, namely, GeTe1−xSex, Sb2Te3(1−x)Se3x, and Bi2−2xSb2xSe3, are studied, and a sudden change in several properties, including optical absorption ε2(ω), optical dielectric constant ε∞, Born effective charge Z*, electrical conductivity, as well as bond breaking behavior for a critical Se or Sb concentration, is evidenced. These findings provide a blueprint to experimentally explore the influence of metavalent bonding on attractive properties of phase‐change materials and thermoelectrics. Particularly important is its impact on optical properties, which can be tailored by the amount of electrons shared between adjacent atoms. This correlation can be used to design optoelectronic materials and to explore systematic changes in chemical bonding with stoichiometry and atomic arrangement.
Integrative approaches to dispersing science: A case study of March Mammal Madness
Authors: Amorim Carlos Eduardo G. , Dasari Mauna , Durgavich Lara , Hinde Katie , Kissel Marc , Lewton Kristi L. , Loewen Tisa
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Public engagement is increasingly viewed as an important pillar of scientific scholarship. For early career and established scholars, navigating the mosaic landscape of public education and science communication, noted for rapid “ecological” succession, can be daunting. Moreover, academics are characterized by diverse skills, motivations, values, positionalities, and temperaments that may differentially incline individuals to particular public translation activities.

Methods

Here we briefly contextualize engagement activities within a scholarly portfolio, describe the use of one public education program—March Mammal Madness (MMM)— to highlight approaches to science communication, and explore essential elements and practical considerations for creating and sustaining outreach pursuits in tandem with other scholarly activities.

Results

MMM, an annual simulated tournament of living and fossil animal taxa, has reached hundreds of thousands of learners since 2013. This program has provided a platform to communicate research findings from biology and anthropology and showcase numerous scholars in these fields. MMM has leveraged tournament devices to intentionally address topics of climate change, capitalist environmental degradation, academic sexism, and racist settler‐colonialism. The tournament, however, has also perpetuated implicit biases that need disrupting.

Conclusions

By embracing reflexive, self‐interrogative, and growth attitudes, the tournament organizers iteratively refine and improve this public science education program to better align our activities with our values and goals. Our experiences with MMM suggest that dispersing science is most sustainable when we combine ancestral adaptations for cooperation, community, and storytelling with good‐natured competition in the context of shared experiences and shared values.
Kleefstra syndrome: Recurrence in siblings due to a paternal mosaic mutation
Authors: Jobic Florence , Lacot‐Leriche Emilie , Piton Amélie , Le Moing Anne‐Gaëlle , Mathieu‐Dramard Michèle , Costantini Sara , Morin Gilles , Jedraszak Guillaume
Published: August 2021

Kleefstra syndrome (KS) is a rare autosomic dominant genetic disorder caused by euchromatic histone methyltransferase 1 (EHMT1) alterations. Patients mainly present with moderate to severe intellectual disability, a severe delay in/or absence of speech, autism spectrum disorder, childhood hypotonia, neuropsychiatric anomalies, and distinctive dysmorphic features. Here, we report the cases of a male and a female, two younger siblings of three, with asymptomatic parents. An EHMT1 new mutation was identified. Both presented with a typical core phenotype. Some specific features were noted, such as macrocephaly (previously reported) and enuresis (not yet described). Parental analysis identified the mutation in the mosaic state in the father. Reverse phenotyping enabled us to highlight the pauci phenotype features of inguinal hernia, azoospermia, and possible behavioral disorders. This allowed us to adapt his follow‐up and genetic counseling for the family. Our three reported cases provide a new description of KS with an intragenic EHMT1 mutation, whereas in the literature most reported cases have EHMT1 deletions. Moreover, in the areas of next‐generation sequencing and trio techniques with parental segregation, it is important to remain cautious about disregarding variants based on an autosomal recessive hypothesis.
Recent Advances in Gold Nanorods‐Based Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Rizwan Younis Muhammad , He Gang , Gurram Bhaskar , Lin Jing , Huang Peng
Published: August 2021

Gold nanorods (GNRs) with a unique localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) property have shown groundbreaking performance in catalysis, sensing, and biomedical applications. Intrinsic inertness, biocompatibility, a tunable longitudinal LSPR band in the near‐infrared (NIR)‐I/II region, high extinction coefficient, and remarkable optical properties all make GNRs excellent photothermal (PT) nanoagents, photosensitizers, and imaging contrast agents for drug delivery, cancer phototherapy, and multimodal imaging‐guided cancer therapy. In this periodic update, bottom–up fabrication of long and short GNRs by seed‐mediated and seedless methods is reviewed, with elaboration concerning the tuning of LSPR band and the generation of localized hyperthermia via light to heat conversion. Recent advances in applications of GNR research in bioimaging, therapy, and theranostics of cancer are then reviewed. Unmet challenges and critical points are discussed with focus given to translation from bench to clinic.
Nitrogen‐Doped Cobalt Diselenide with Cubic Phase Maintained for Enhanced Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Sun Yiqiang , Li Xiuling , Zhang Tao , Xu Kun , Yang Yisong , Chen Guozhu , Li Cuncheng , Xie Yi
Published: August 2021

The introduction of heteroatoms is one of the most important ways to modulate the intrinsic electronic structure of electrocatalysts to improve their catalytic activity. However, for transition metal chalcogenides with highly symmetric crystal structure (HS‐TMC), the introduction of heteroatoms, especially those with large atomic radius, often induces large lattice distortion and vacancy defects, which may lead to structural phase transition of doped materials or structural phase reconstruction during the catalytic reaction. Such unpredictable situations will make it difficult to explore the connection between the intrinsic electronic structure of doped catalysts and catalytic activity. Herein, taking thermodynamically stable cubic CoSe2 phase as an example, we demonstrate that nitrogen incorporation can effectively regulate the intrinsic electronic structure of HS‐TMC with structural phase stability and thus promote its electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution activity (HER). In contrast, the introduction of phosphorus can lead to structural phase transition from cubic CoSe2 to orthorhombic phase, and the structural phase of phosphorus‐doped CoSe2 is unstable for HER.
Rational Design of Sustainable Liquid Microcapsules for Spontaneous Fragrance Encapsulation
Authors: Mamusa Marianna , Mastrangelo Rosangela , Glen Tom , Murgia Sergio , Palazzo Gerardo , Smets Johan , Baglioni Piero
Published: August 2021

The high volatility, water‐immiscibility, and light/oxygen‐sensitivity of most aroma compounds represent a challenge to their incorporation in liquid consumer products. Current encapsulation methods entail the use of petroleum‐based materials, initiators, and crosslinkers as well as mixing, heating, and purification steps. Hence, more efficient and eco‐friendly approaches to encapsulation must be sought. Herein, we propose a simple method by making use of a pre‐formed amphiphilic polymer and employing the Hansen Solubility Parameters approach to determine which fragrances could be encapsulated by spontaneous coacervation in water. The coacervates do not precipitate as solids but they remain suspended as colloidally stable liquid microcapsules, as demonstrated by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. The effective encapsulation of fragrance is proven through confocal Raman spectroscopy, while the structure of the capsules is investigated by means of cryo FIB/SEM, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering.
Preparation and performance of a kitchen waste oil‐modified polyvinyl alcohol‐grafted urea slow‐release fertilizer
Authors: Qi Xin , Guo Yu , Chen Qianlin , Zhao Xiaohan , Ao Xianquan
Published: August 2021

Slow‐release fertilizers (MSRFs) are effective in improving fertilizer utilization and reducing environmental fertilizer pollution. In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was modified with kitchen waste oil (KWO) and grafted with urea to prepare a urea MSRF. FTIR, Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and water contact angle were used to study the MSRF structure and properties. The effects of the nitrogen content on its properties were also investigated through release performance and degradation behavior evaluation and plant experiments. The results showed that the oil‐based polyalcohol‐modified PVA (OPMPVA) solution prepared from KWO had good compatibility with the urea‐modified compound hydroxylurea, and the prepared MSRF had good hydrophobicity, degradation and slow‐release properties. The nutrient release period reached more than 20 days, and the degradation rate after 30 days reached 10.2%. Plant experiments showed that the MSRF prepared in this research has good application potential, and the utilization of nitrogen nutrients was improved.
Pilot scale production and evaluation of mechanical and thermal properties of P(3HB) from Bacillus megaterium cultivated on desugarized sugar beet molasses
Authors: Schmid Maximilian T. , Sykacek Eva , O'Connor Kevin , Omann Markus , Mundigler Norbert , Neureiter Markus
Published: August 2021

Production of poly[(R)‐3‐hydroxyalkanoate] (PHA) biopolyesters must become more cost efficient in order to be competitive with conventional plastics as well as other bioplastics. This study introduces a simple and reproducible large‐scale production process of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) P(3HB) with Bacillus megaterium based on desugarized sugar beet molasses and compares its material properties with commercially available types of PHA. A repeated batch cultivation system was evaluated in 1.2 L bioreactors and could be maintained for at least six cycles without a decrease in process stability, yielding a concentration of 20.4 g/L cell dry mass and 12 g/L P(3HB) per average process cycle. Feasibility of P(3HB) production was demonstrated at 500 L pilot scale to provide sufficient amounts of product for the determination of mechanical and thermal polymer properties. A volumetric productivity of 0.2 g L−1 h−1 was achieved. The resulting polymer exhibited a high tensile modulus of 3.73 GPa and tensile strength of 38.5 MPa. Despite a lower ductility and Vicat softening temperature, the properties of the recovered P(3HB) are comparable to commercial grade P(HB)HV polymers.
New specimens provide insights into the anatomy of the dinosauriform Lewisuchus admixtus Romer, 1972 from the upper Triassic levels of the Chañares Formation, NW Argentina
Authors: Agnolín Federico , Brissón Egli Federico , Ezcurra Martín D. , Langer Max C. , Novas Fernando
Published: August 2021

Lewisuchus admixtus is an early dinosauriform described by Alfred Romer in 1972 on the basis of a single, incomplete skeleton, collected in lower Upper Triassic rocks of the renowned Chañares Formation, at the Los Chañares type‐locality, La Rioja Province, north‐western Argentina. Recent field explorations to the type‐locality resulted in the discovery of two partial articulated skeletons, which provide significant novel information. The cranial bones, presacral series, femur, tibia, and proximal tarsals of the new specimens match the preserved overlapping anatomy of the holotype and previously referred specimens of L. admixtus, including the presence of unique combination of character states among dinosauriforms (anterior presacral column with additional ossification on the top of neural spines, dorsal neural spines fan‐shaped, anterior surface of the astragalus with a dorsally curved groove, and an inflated area on the anterior portion of the medial surface of this bone). This new information improves our understanding of the anatomy and taxonomy of early dinosauriforms and reinforces the role of Argentinean beds on the study of the origin of dinosaurs.
Mechanical Motion in Crystals Triggered by Solid State Photochemical [2+2] Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Khan Samim , Akhtaruzzaman  , Medishetty Raghavender , Ekka Akansha , Mir Mohammad Hedayetullah
Published: August 2021

Some special crystals respond to light by jumping, scattering or bursting just like popping of popcorn kernels on a hot surface. This rare phenomenon is called the photosalient (PS) effect. Molecular level control over the arrangement of light‐responsive molecules in microscopic crystals for macroscale deformation or mechanical motion offers the possibility of using light to control smart material structures across the length scales. Photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition has recently emerged as a promising route to obtain photoswitchable structures and a wide variety of frameworks, but such reaction in crystals leading to macroscopic mechanical motion is relatively less explored. Study of chemistry of such novel soft crystals for the generation of smart materials is an imperative task. This minireview highlights recent advances in solid‐state [2+2] cycloaddition in crystals to induce macroscale mechanical motion and thereby transduction of light into kinetic energy.
Leloir glycosyltransferases enabled to flow synthesis: Continuous production of the natural C‐glycoside nothofagin
Authors: Liu Hui , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: August 2021

C‐glycosyltransferase (CGT) and sucrose synthase (SuSy), each fused to the cationic binding module Zbasic2, were co‐immobilized on anionic carrier (ReliSorb SP400) and assessed for continuous production of the natural C‐glycoside nothofagin. The overall reaction was 3ʹ‐C‐β‐glycosylation of the polyphenol phloretin from uridine 5ʹ‐diphosphate (UDP)‐glucose that was released in situ from sucrose and UDP. Using solid catalyst optimized for total (∼28 mg/g) as well as relative protein loading (CGT/SuSy = ∼1) and assembled into a packed bed (1 ml), we demonstrate flow synthesis of nothofagin (up to 52 mg/ml; 120 mM) from phloretin (≥95% conversion) solubilized by inclusion complexation in hydroxypropyl β‐cyclodextrin. About 1.8 g nothofagin (90 ml; 12–26 mg/ml) were produced continuously over 90 reactor cycles (2.3 h/cycle) with a space‐time yield of approximately 11 mg/(ml h) and a total enzyme turnover number of up to 2.9 × 103 mg/mg (=3.8 × 105 mol/mol). The co‐immobilized enzymes exhibited useful effectiveness (∼40% of the enzymes in solution), with limitations on the conversion rate arising partly from external liquid–solid mass transfer of UDP under packed‐bed flow conditions. The operational half‐life of the catalyst (∼200 h; 30°C) was governed by the binding stability of the glycosyltransferases (≤35% loss of activity) on the solid carrier. Collectively, the current study shows integrated process technology for flow synthesis with co‐immobilized sugar nucleotide‐dependent glycosyltransferases, using efficient glycosylation from sucrose via the internally recycled UDP‐glucose. This provides a basis from engineering science to promote glycosyltransferase applications for natural product glycosides and oligosaccharides.
Electrochemical Cleavage of Carbon‐Chlorine Bonds in Multiply Bridge‐Chlorinated Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane‐1,3‐dicarboxylic Acids
Authors: Kaleta Jiří , Hromadová Magdaléna , Pospíšil Lubomír
Published: August 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of synthetic and physical chemists from the Czech Academy of Sciences. The cover picture shows electrochemical dechlorination of polychlorinated derivatives of bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane‐1,3‐dicarboxylic acid. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202100372.
Diarylheptanoid‐flavanone Hybrids as Multiple‐target Antidiabetic Agents from Alpinia katsumadai
Authors: He Xiao‐Feng , Chen Ji‐Jun , Li Tian‐Ze , Hu Jing , Huang Xiao‐Yan , Zhang Xue‐Mei , Guo Yuan‐Qiang , Geng Chang‐An
Published: August 2021

Main observation and conclusion

The EtOAc fraction of Alpinia katsumadai seeds showed significant inhibition on glycogen phosphorylase a (GPa) with inhibitory ratios of 97.9% and 64.6% at concentrations of 200 and 100 μg/mL, respectively. Bioactivity‐guided isolation afforded 15 new diarylheptanoid‐flavanone hybrids, katsumadainols B1—B15 (1—15), together with eight known ones (16—23). Compounds 4—10 and 12—21 exhibited activity against GPa with IC50 values of 10.1—95.4 μmol/L; compounds 4, 5, 16, and 17 displayed inhibitory effects on α‐glucosidase with IC50 values of 7.1, 12.4, 7.2, and 8.3 μmol/L, obviously higher than acarbose (IC50, 209.1 μmol/L); compounds 4—6, 14, 16—20, 22, and 23 were PTP1B/TCPTP selective inhibitors with IC50 values of 40.7—95.8 μmol/L; compounds 4, 5, 16, and 17 showed DPP4 inhibitory effects with inhibitory ratios of 50.0%—54.2% (200 μmol/L). Diarylheptanoid‐flavanone hybrids (4, 5, 16, and 17) with a p‐hydroxybenzyl at C‐6 position represent a promising class of multiple‐target antidiabetic agents inhibiting GPa, α‐glucosidase, PTP1B, and DPP4.