bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precise optical control of gene expression in C elegans using improved genetic code expansion and Cre recombinase
Authors: Davis Lloyd , Radman Inja , Goutou Angeliki , Tynan Ailish , Baxter Kieran , Xi Zhiyan , O'Shea Jack M , Chin Jason W , Greiss Sebastian
Published: August 2021

Synthetic strategies for optically controlling gene expression may enable the precise spatiotemporal control of genes in any combination of cells that cannot be targeted with specific promoters. We develop an improved genetic code expansion system in Caenorhabditis elegans and use it to create a photoactivatable Cre recombinase. We laser-activate Cre in single neurons within a bilaterally symmetric pair to selectively switch on expression of a loxP-controlled optogenetic channel in the targeted neuron. We use the system to dissect, in freely moving animals, the individual contributions of the mechanosensory neurons PLML/PLMR to the C. elegans touch response circuit, revealing distinct and synergistic roles for these neurons. We thus demonstrate how genetic code expansion and optical targeting can be combined to break the symmetry of neuron pairs and dissect behavioural outputs of individual neurons that cannot be genetically targeted.
Ancient viral genomes reveal introduction of human pathogenic viruses into Mexico during the transatlantic slave trade
Authors: Guzmán-Solís Axel A , Villa-Islas Viridiana , Bravo-López Miriam J , Sandoval-Velasco Marcela , Wesp Julie K , Gómez-Valdés Jorge A , Moreno-Cabrera María de la Luz , Meraz Alejandro , Solís-Pichardo Gabriela , Schaaf Peter , TenOever Benjamin R , Blanco-Melo Daniel , Ávila Arcos María C
Published: August 2021

After the European colonization of the Americas, there was a dramatic population collapse of the Indigenous inhabitants caused in part by the introduction of new pathogens. Although there is much speculation on the etiology of the Colonial epidemics, direct evidence for the presence of specific viruses during the Colonial era is lacking. To uncover the diversity of viral pathogens during this period, we designed an enrichment assay targeting ancient DNA (aDNA) from viruses of clinical importance and applied it to DNA extracts from individuals found in a Colonial hospital and a Colonial chapel (16th–18th century) where records suggest that victims of epidemics were buried during important outbreaks in Mexico City. This allowed us to reconstruct three ancient human parvovirus B19 genomes and one ancient human hepatitis B virus genome from distinct individuals. The viral genomes are similar to African strains, consistent with the inferred morphological and genetic African ancestry of the hosts as well as with the isotopic analysis of the human remains, suggesting an origin on the African continent. This study provides direct molecular evidence of ancient viruses being transported to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade and their subsequent introduction to New Spain. Altogether, our observations enrich the discussion about the etiology of infectious diseases during the Colonial period in Mexico.
Design of adaptive ensemble classifier for online sentiment analysis and opinion mining
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Singh Ravendra , Khan Mohammad Zubair , Noorwali Abdulfattah
Published: August 2021

DataStream mining is a challenging task for researchers because of the change in data distribution during classification, known as concept drift. Drift detection algorithms emphasize detecting the drift. The drift detection algorithm needs to be very sensitive to change in data distribution for detecting the maximum number of drifts in the data stream. But highly sensitive drift detectors lead to higher false-positive drift detections. This paper proposed a Drift Detection-based Adaptive Ensemble classifier for sentiment analysis and opinion mining, which uses these false-positive drift detections to benefit and minimize the negative impact of false-positive drift detection signals. The proposed method creates and adds a new classifier to the ensemble whenever a drift happens. A weighting mechanism is implemented, which provides weights to each classifier in the ensemble. The weight of the classifier decides the contribution of each classifier in the final classification results. The experiments are performed using different classification algorithms, and results are evaluated on the accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-measures. The proposed method is also compared with these state-of-the-art methods, OzaBaggingADWINClassifier, Accuracy Weighted Ensemble, Additive Expert Ensemble, Streaming Random Patches, and Adaptive Random Forest Classifier. The results show that the proposed method handles both true positive and false positive drifts efficiently.
An efficient sorghum transformation system using embryogenic calli derived from mature seeds
Authors: Wang Lihua , Gao Li , Liu Guoquan , Meng Ruirui , Liu Yanlong , Li Jieqin
Published: August 2021

Significant progress has been made on sorghum transformation in the last decades; however, the transformation process has been constrained by the availability of immature embryos because most of the researchers have utilized immature embryos as favorable explants. Although immature embryos have been proven to be optimal for tissue culture and transformation, isolation of immature embryos is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and limited by warm weather. In this study, we developed an efficient genetic transformation system using mature seeds as explants. The nptII and gus gene, used as the selective marker and report gene respectively, have been co-transformed by particle bombardment. After optimization of tissue culture, the G418 concentration, and transgenic, the average transformation frequency at 13.33% was achieved routinely. The transgenic events and transgene copy numbers were determined by PCR and RT-PCR, respectively. The geneticin selection and GUS staining on T1 seedlings confirmed that the transgenic plants were heritable. Our results demonstrated that the efficient sorghum transformation system has been established using mature seeds as explants. This transformation system will promote sorghum research on genetic engineering and genome editing without seasonal weather conditions restriction and explant resources restriction.
Antimicrobial Activities of Co (III), Mono and Tri-nuclear Ni Complexes Containing Schiff base Functionalized Imidazolium based Ligands
Authors: Abubakar Samaila , Muktari Musa , Dogara Rifkatu Kambel
Published: August 2021

We reported the antimicrobial activities of cobalt and nickel complexes containing imino-NHC ligands. Complex 2 was synthesized by direct reaction of the insitu generated free carbene from 2-[2-(3-benzylimidazol-1-yl)ethyliminomethyl]phenol ligand with NiCl2 diglyme while complexes 3-5 were previously reported as catalysts in the transfer hydrogenation reaction of ketones. The compounds 1-5 were screened for antimicrobial sensitivity test against four gram-negative bacteria Escherichia Coli (E-coli), Shigella, Klebsiella Pneumoniae (K. Pneumoniae) and Salmonella Typhi (S.Typhi) and a gram positive bacteria Staphylocossus aureus (S.aureus). At a varying concentrations of 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 µg/mL, significant activities were recorded using disc diffusion methods. The cobalt complex 3 was found to have higher activities compared with the corresponding nickel complexes and among the three nickel complexes, nickel complex with pyridine as wingtip was found to be more active than the one with a benzyl group. Similarly, the nickel centre with mononuclear was found to be more active than the tri-nuclear nickel complex.  Except for the cobalt complex 3 no activity was recorded against S. typhi for all the nickel compounds.
Electron‐Affinity Substituent in 2,6‐Dicarbonitrile Diphenyl‐1λ5‐Phosphinine Towards High‐Quality Organic Lasing and Electroluminescence under High Current Injection
Authors: Tang Xun , Balijapalli Umamahesh , Okada Daichi , Karunathilaka Buddhika S. B. , Senevirathne Chathuranganie A. M. , Lee Yi‐Ting , Feng Zhao , Sandanayaka Atula S. D. , Matsushima Toshinori , Adachi Chihaya
Published: August 2021

Rationally manipulating the functional substituents plays a crucial role in tuning the luminescence and lasing properties of organic gain media. Herein, a cyanophenyl‐moiety, which exhibits relatively weaker electron affinity, is connected to 2,6‐dicarbonitrile diphenyl‐1λ5‐phosphinine (DCNP) via para‐linking. Resultantly, the appreciated locally‐excited characteristics ensuring a large oscillator strength and high radiative rate can be reserved in DCNP‐4‐(4‐cyanophenyl) (DCNP‐pCN). Interestingly, the weak charge‐transfer state from the relative donor (D)/acceptor (A) interplay enables small singlet‐triplet splitting (ΔEST ≈ 0.45 eV). Thus the triplets generated on DCNP‐pCN can be efficiently scavenged by 4,4'‐bis[(N‐carbazole)styryl]biphenyl (BSBCz), which is used as the host with a lower‐lying triplet energy level for DCNP‐pCN. Moreover, benefitting from the mediation between the conjugated length extension and weak D/A interplay, the emission spectrum cannot be largely shifted, which can effectively suppress the overlap between the lasing emission of DCNP‐pCN and the excited‐state absorption of BSBCz, thereby avoiding detrimental singlet‐triplet annihilation. Thus, high‐quality distributed feedback lasings with ≈2.0 μJ cm−2 thresholds are achieved, and the organic light‐emitting diodes exhibit external quantum efficiency exceeding 2.0% without efficiency rolloff under high current injection, indicating the potential for electrical‐pumping organic lasings.
Gold Nanoclusters as Nanoantibiotic Auranofin Analogues
Authors: Ndugire William , Raviranga N. G. Hasitha , Lao Jingzhe , Ramström Olof , Yan Mingdi
Published: August 2021

Auranofin, a gold(I)‐complex with tetraacetylated thioglucose (Ac4GlcSH) and triethylphosphine ligands, is an FDA‐approved drug used as an anti‐inflammatory aid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. In repurposing auranofin for other diseases, it was found that the drug showed significant activity against Gram‐positive but was inactive against Gram‐negative bacteria. Herein, the design and synthesis of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) based on the structural motif of auranofin are reported. Phosphine‐capped AuNCs are synthesized and glycosylated, yielding auranofin analogues with mixed triphenylphosphine monosulfonate (TPPMS)/Ac4GlcSH ligand shells. These AuNCs are active against both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria, including multidrug‐resistant pathogens. Notably, an auranofin analogue, a mixed‐ligand 1.6 nm AuNC 4b, is more active than auranofin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while exhibiting lower toxicity against human A549 cells. The enhanced antibacterial activity of these AuNCs is characterized by a greater uptake of Au by the bacteria compared to AuI complexes. Additional factors include increased oxidative stress, moderate inhibition of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), and DNA damage. Most intriguingly, the uptake of AuNCs are not affected by the bacterial outer membrane (OM) barrier or by binding with the extracellular proteins. This contrasts with AuI complexes like auranofin that are susceptible to protein binding and hindered by the OM barrier.
Modular Assembly of Tumor‐Penetrating and Oligomeric Nanozyme Based on Intrinsically Self‐Assembling Protein Nanocages
Authors: Liu Qiqi , Tian Jingwei , Liu Jinjian , Zhu Mingsheng , Gao Zhanxia , Hu Xueyan , Midgley Adam C. , Wu Jin , Wang Xinyue , Kong Deling , Zhuang Jie , Liu Jianfeng , Yan Xiyun , Huang Xinglu
Published: August 2021

Biomimetic design of nanomaterials with enzyme‐like characteristics has emerged as a promising method for the generation of novel therapeutics. However, synthesis of nanomaterials while maintaining a high degree of control over both geometry and valency poses a prominent challenge. Herein, the authors introduce a nanomaterial‐based synthetic biology strategy for accurate and quantitative tailoring of high‐ordered nanostructures that uses a “bottom‐up” hierarchical incorporation of protein building blocks. The assembled nano‐oligomers possessed tunable protein motifs and multivalent binding domains, which facilitated prolonged blood circulation time, accumulation within tumor cells through direct targeting of cell receptors, and deep tumor tissue penetration via a transcytosis mechanism. Using these protein/protein nano‐oligomers as scaffolds, the authors created a new series of artificial nano‐scaled metalloenzymes (nanozymes) by the in situ incorporation of metal nanoclusters within the cavity of the protein nanocages. Nanozymes were capable of mimicking peroxidase‐like activity and generated cytotoxic free radicals. Compared to nanozyme alone, the systemic delivery of oligomeric nanozymes demonstrated significantly enhanced therapeutic and anti‐tumor benefits. This study shows a new insight into nanotechnology by taking advantage of synthetic biotechnology.
Recent Progress in the Fabrication and Characteristics of Self‐Repairing Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Authors: Liu Fatang , Du Hongzhong , Han Ying , Wang Chijia , Liu Zhanjian , Wang Huaiyuan
Published: August 2021

Superhydrophobic surfaces show promise in a wide variety of potential applications that require self‐cleaning, antifogging, anti‐icing, anticorrosion, and antifouling properties. However, these surfaces often exhibit poor durability against physical or chemical damage, such as deep cut, ultraviolet irradiation, and oxygen plasma treatment. Superhydrophobic surfaces with self‐repairing properties have been recently developed to overcome these durability issues. The recent progress in the fabrication and characteristics of self‐repairing superhydrophobic surfaces, including chemical component, physical structure, and combined repair is summarized. The application of these superhydrophobic surfaces is also described. The critical limitations regarding self‐repairing surfaces are highlighted and perspectives on future development are discussed.
A Perspective on Cephalopods Mimicry and Bioinspired Technologies toward Proprioceptive Autonomous Soft Robots
Authors: Giordano Goffredo , Carlotti Marco , Mazzolai Barbara
Published: August 2021

Octopus skin is an amazing source of inspiration for bioinspired sensors, actuators and control solutions in soft robotics. Soft organic materials, biomacromolecules and protein ingredients in octopus skin combined with a distributed intelligence, result in adaptive displays that can control emerging optical behavior, and 3D surface textures with rough geometries, with a remarkably high control speed (≈ms). To be able to replicate deformable and compliant materials capable of translating mechanical perturbations in molecular and structural chromogenic outputs, could be a glorious achievement in materials science and in the technological field. Soft robots are suitable platforms for soft multi‐responsive materials, which can provide them with improved mechanical proprioception and related smarter behaviors. Indeed, a system provided with a “learning and recognition” functions, and a constitutive “mechanical” and “material intelligence” can result in an improved morphological adaptation in multi‐variate environments responding to external and internal stimuli. This review aims to explore challenges and opportunities related to smart and chromogenic responsive materials for adaptive displays, reconfigurable and programmable soft skin, proprioceptive sensing system, and synthetic nervous control units for data processing, toward autonomous soft robots able to communicate and interact with users in open‐world scenarios.
All‐Solid‐State Thin Film μ‐Batteries for Microelectronics
Authors: Wu Tian , Dai Wei , Ke Meilu , Huang Qing , Lu Li
Published: August 2021

Continuous advances in microelectronics and micro/nanoelectromechanical systems enable the use of microsized energy storage devices, namely solid‐state thin‐film μ‐batteries. Different from the current button batteries, the μ‐battery can directly be integrated on microchips forming a very compact “system on chip” since no liquid electrolyte is used in the μ‐battery. The all‐solid‐state battery (ASSB) that uses solid‐state electrolyte has become a research trend because of its high safety and increased capacity. The solid‐state thin‐film μ‐battery belongs to the family of ASSB but in a small format. However, a lot of scientific and technical issues and challenges are to be resolved before its real application, including the ionic conductivity of the solid‐state electrolyte, the electrical conductivity of the electrode, integration technologies, electrochemical‐induced strain, etc. To achieve this goal, understanding the processing of thin films and fundamentals of ion transfer in the solid‐state electrolytes and hence in the μ‐batteries becomes utmost important. This review therefore focuses on solid‐state ionics and provides inside of ion transportation in the solid state and effects of chemistry on electrochemical behaviors and proposes key technology for processing of the μ‐battery.
Circulating jet for enhancing the mass transfer in a gas–liquid stirred tank reactor
Authors: Xu Xiao , Wang Lei , Wang Hualin , Liu Honglai , Yang Qiang
Published: August 2021

There are some problems in gas–liquid stirred tank reactor (STR), such as low mass transfer efficiency, high exhaust gas oxygen concentration, and low product conversion rate, due to limitations of stirring speed and input power. This article summarizes the effect of adding circulating jet internals on bubble size distribution, overall gas holdup, gas–liquid volumetric mass transfer coefficient, and power per unit volume of the STR. When circulating jet is added, the average bubble Sauter mean diameter in the STR is reduced to 1.26 mm, and the overall gas holdup is increased to 8.23%, which is an increase of 3.62 times of the original STR. The gas–liquid volumetric mass transfer coefficient is increased to 0.05556 s−1, which is 4.84 times of the original STR. The power per unit volume is increased by only 1.4 times. These data provide references for the design and scale‐up of new jet STRs.
Patient‐reported neurocognitive symptoms influence instrumental activities of daily living in sickle cell disease
Authors: Longoria Jennifer N. , Pugh Norma L. , Gordeuk Victor , Hsu Lewis L. , Treadwell Marsha , King Allison A. , Gibson Robert , Kayle Mariam , Crego Nancy , Glassberg Jeffrey , Melvin Cathy L. , Hankins Jane S. , Porter Jerlym
Published: August 2021

Individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) experience neurocognitive decline, low medication adherence, increased unemployment, and difficulty with instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). The relationship between self‐perceived cognitive difficulties and IADLs, including employment, school enrollment, independence, engagement in leisure activities, and medication adherence is unknown. We hypothesized that self‐reported difficulties across neurocognitive areas would predict lower IADL skills. Adolescent and adult participants of the multi‐site Sickle Cell Disease Implementation Consortium (SCDIC) (n = 2436) completed patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measures of attention, executive functioning, processing speed, learning, and comprehension. Cognitive symptoms were analyzed as predictors in multivariable modeling. Outcome variables included 1) an IADL composite that consisted of employment, participation in school, reliance on others, and leisure pursuits, and 2) hydroxyurea adherence. Participants reported cognitive difficulty across areas of attention (55%), executive functioning (51%), processing speed (57%), and reading comprehension (65%). Executive dysfunction (p < 0.001) and sometimes or often experiencing learning difficulties (p < 0.001 and p = 0.04) and poor comprehension (p = 0.000 and p = 0.001), controlled for age (p < 0.001), pain (p < 0.001), and hydroxyurea use (p = 0.001), were associated with poor IADL skills. Executive functioning difficulties (p = 0.021), controlled for age (p = 0.013 for ages 25–34), genotype (p = 0.001), and hemoglobin (p = 0.004), predicted hydroxyurea non‐adherence. Analysis of PRO measures indicated that cognitive dysfunction is prevalent in adolescents and adults with SCD. Cognitive dysfunction translated into clinically meaningful outcomes. PRO of cognitive symptoms can be used as an important adjunct clinical tool to monitor symptoms that impact functional skills, including engagement in societal activities and medication adherence.
Electrochemical Nitric Oxide Reduction on Metal Surfaces
Authors: Wan Hao , Bagger Alexander , Rossmeisl Jan
Published: August 2021

Electrocatalytic denitrification is a promising technology for removing NOx species (NO3−, NO2− and NO). For NOx electroreduction (NOxRR), there is a desire for understanding the catalytic parameters that control the product distribution. Here, we elucidate selectivity and activity of catalyst for NOxRR. At low potential we classify metals by the binding of *NO versus *H. Analogous to classifying CO2 reduction by *CO vs. *H, Cu is able to bind *NO while not binding *H giving rise to a selective NH3 formation. Besides being selective, Cu is active for the reaction found by an activity‐volcano. For metals that does not bind NO the reaction stops at NO, similar to CO2‐to‐CO. At potential above 0.3 V vs. RHE, we speculate a low barrier for N coupling with NO causing N2O formation. The work provides a clear strategy for selectivity and aims to inspire future research on NOxRR.
Applications of quantitative metabolomics to revolutionize early diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism in India
Authors: Chandran Jisha , Bellad Anikha , Ramarajan Madan Gopal , Rangiah Kannan
Published: August 2021

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) are a group of disorders caused by disruption of metabolic pathways, which leads to accumulation, decreased circulating levels, or increased excretion of metabolites as a consequence of the underlying genetic defects. These heterogeneous groups of disorders cause significant neonatal and infant mortality across the whole world and it is of utmost concern for developing countries like India owing to lack of awareness and standard preventive strategies like newborn screening (NBS). Though the predictive cumulative incidence of IEMs is said to be ∼1:800 newborns, data pertaining to the true prevalence of individual IEMs is not available in the context of Indian population. There is a need for a large population‐based study to get a clear picture of the prevalence of different IEMs. One of the best ways to screen for IEMs is by applying advanced liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) technology using a quantitative metabolomics approaches such as selected or multiple reaction monitoring (SRM or MRM). Recent developments in LC‐MS/MRM based quantification of marker metabolites in newborns have opened a novel opportunity to screen multiple disorders simultaneously from a minuscule volume of biological fluids. In this review article, we have highlighted how LC‐MS/MRM based metabolomics approach with its high sensitivity and diagnostic capability can make an impact on the nation's public health through NBS programs.
Simultaneous determination of skimmin, apiosylskimmin, 7‐hydroxycoumarin and 7‐hydroxycoumarin glucuronide in rat plasma by liquid chromatography–Orbitrap mass spectrometry and its application to pharmacokinetics
Authors: Luo Lijun , Liu Xiao , Jin Xiaoxu , Liu Yuke , Ma Jie , Zhang Sen , Zhang Dongming , Chen Xiaoguang , Sheng Li , Li Yan
Published: August 2021

The effective fraction of coumarin glycosides fromHydrangea paniculataSieb (HP) has been under development for the treatment of chronic kidney disease for years. Skimmin and apiosylskimmin are the main coumarin glycosides of HP, and the major metabolites in rats are 7‐hydroxycoumarin (7‐HC) and 7‐hydroxycoumarin glucuronide (7‐HCG). In this study, a sensitive and reliable liquid chromatography–Orbitrap mass spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous determination of skimmin, apiosylskimmin, 7‐HC and 7‐HCG in rat plasma. The chromatographic separation was performed on a Zobax SB C18column (2.1 × 100 mm, 3.5 μm) at a flow rate of 0.3 ml/min with a gradient mobile phase of water and acetonitrile containing 0.2% formic acid. Skimmin, apiosylskimmin and 7‐HCG were detected in targeted‐selected‐ion‐monitoring mode at positive ionsm/zof 325.0911, 457.1331 and 339.0703, respectively. 7‐HC and the internal standard were detected in parallel‐reaction‐monitoring mode atm/z163.0387 → 119.0492 and 260.1641 → 116.1071 to overcome the carryover of 7‐HC. Linearity was obtained for the analytes within the ranges 20–2,000 ng/ml for skimmin, 5–500 ng/ml for apiosylskimmin and 7‐HC and 100–10,000 ng/ml for 7‐HCG. Validation parameters were all in line with the criteria of international guidance. The method has been applied to the pharmacokinetic study of HP in rats.
The effects of caregiver's burden on dynamic structure in disorder of consciousness families: An observational study
Authors: Corallo Francesco , Pria Deborah , Di Blasi Agata , Bonanno Lilla , De Cola Maria Cristina , Di Cara Marcella , Rifici Carmela , De Salvo Simona , Bramanti Placido , Marino Silvia , Lo Buono Viviana
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Disorder of consciousness is a clinical condition due to severe brain damage. The impact of consciousness disorder on the family is characterized by a combination of biopsychosocial factors. The burden and suffering perceived by caregivers can cause psychological distress characterized by anxiety, depression, and physical illness. The aim of the study was to investigate the interaction between family dynamics and caregiver burden.

Methods

We enlisted 35 caregivers of subjects in a minimally conscious state. Two skilled psychologists administered the Olson's Adaptability and Family Cohesion Assessment Scale and the Novak's Burden Inventory Caregiver Scale to assess family function and family burden, respectively.

Results

We found that the caregiver burden correlates with the family adaptability and cohesion, as well as with enmeshment, rigidity, and disengagement.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that the traumatic event does not affect the family structure. Families are able to maintain a balanced functioning and control distress.
The wicked problem of sustainable development in supply chains
Authors: Pederneiras Yasmim Maia , Meckenstock Johann , Carvalho Ana Isabel Cerqueira , Barbosa‐Póvoa Ana Paula
Published: August 2021

The operationalization of sustainable development involves ambiguity, complexity and uncertainty. It becomes more complex when applied in supply chain operations. Indeed, the research in sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) is influenced by positivist paradigms that do not address subjective issues. Therefore, we suggest that SSCM is often dealing with so‐called ‘wicked’ problems. This paper aims to emphasize the relationship between wicked problem complexities and SSCM characteristics. Through a ground theory approach, we develop a conceptual framework that relates the social, cognitive and temporal complexities of a wicked problem with characteristics of SSCM. Furthermore, we propose business strategies to mediate this relationship. Our contribution highlights the importance of the stakeholder's engagement to develop common sustainability values and language, clarity and transparency in the supply chain activities, and continuity and equity in a long‐term partnership.
Modification and Patterning of Self‐Assembled Monolayers Using Electrogenerated Etchants and Homogeneous Scavenging Reactions in a Scanning Electrochemical Microscope
Authors: Vaske Britta , Schaube Maximilian , Meiners Frank , Ross Jan Henning , Christoffers Jens , Wittstock Gunther
Published: August 2021

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of oligoethylene glycol (OEG)‐terminated alkanethiolates on gold, which are used to control protein adsorption and cell adhesion, were patterned by reaction with Br2/HOBr electrogenerated at a microelectrode of a scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM). The spreading of the Br2 diffusion layers was limited by a homogeneous reaction with cystamine or L‐cystine as scavengers. The influence of process parameters on the patterning process was explored by simulation and combinatorial experiments. The experimental determination of pattern sizes from SECM feedback images was verified by scanning force microscopy. The simulation considered the local Br2 formation as well as Br2 consumption in the reaction with the OEG SAM, by reduction at the gold substrate, and by the homogeneous scavenging reaction. It used experimentally determined diffusion coefficients and rate constants of the scavenging reaction. and Experiments and simulation confirmed the existence of regions in the parameter space, in which the patterning process is robust against small variation of the parameters working distance, pulse time and scavenger excess.
Divergent Construction of Diverse Scaffolds through Catalyst‐Controlled C−H Activation Cascades of Quinazolinones and Cyclopropenones
Authors: Shi Yuesen , Huang Tianle , Wang Ting , Chen Jian , Liu Xuexin , Wu Zhouping , Huang Xiaofang , Zheng Yao , Yang Zhongzhen , Wu Yong
Published: August 2021

A transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H activation cascade strategy to rapidly construct diverse quinazolinone derivatives in a one‐pot manner is reported. The catalysts play an important role in the different transformations. Additionally, the procedure is scalable, proceeds with high efficiency and good chemo‐/regio‐selectivity, and tolerates a range of functional groups.
PROTOCOL: Effectiveness of parent‐engagement programs to reduce truancy and juvenile delinquency: A systematic review
Authors: Kethineni Sesha , Frazier‐Kouassi Susan , Shigemoto Yuki , Jennings Wesley , Cardwell Stephanie M. , Piquero Alex R. , Gay Kimberly , Sundaravadivelu Dayanand
Published: August 2021

This review aims to synthesize the evaluation evidence for parent‐engagement programs that focus on reducing juvenile truancy as the primary outcome. Delinquent behavior will be assessed as a secondary outcome when included. This objective is guided by the following research questions: (1) what is the effectiveness of parent‐engagement programs for children in preschool (ages 4–5) through secondary education (ages 13–19) on primarily (a) reducing student truancy (i.e., unexcused or unauthorized absence) and secondarily (and when included) (b) reducing delinquent behaviors? (2) Is there variability in the effectiveness of parent‐engagement programs across moderators such as gender, age, grade levels, settings, and contexts? (3) What factors (e.g., groups, settings, and contexts) explain the variability in the effectiveness of engagement programs in a multivariate framework?
Patient characteristics and acute cardiovascular event rates among patients with very high‐risk and non‐very high‐risk atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Fonarow Gregg C. , Kosiborod Mikhail N. , Rane Pallavi B. , Nunna Sasikiran , Villa Guillermo , Habib Mohdhar , Arellano Jorge , Mues Katherine E. , Sun Kainan , Wade Rolin L.
Published: August 2021

Background

The risk for subsequent major cardiovascular (CV) events among patients with very high‐risk (VHR) atherosclerotic CV disease (ASCVD) remains to be fully elucidated.

Hypothesis

We assessed the characteristics and major CV event rates of patients with VHR versus non‐VHR ASCVD in a real‐world setting in the United States (US), hypothesizing that patients with VHR ASCVD would have higher CV event rates.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted from January 01, 2011, to June 30, 2018, in the US using the Prognos LDL‐C database linked to the IQVIA PharMetrics Plus® database supplemented with the IQVIA prescription claims (Dx/LRx) databases. Patients were ≥18 years old and had  ≥2 non‐ancillary medical claims in the linked databases at least 30 days apart. The study was conducted in 2 stages: (1) identification of patients with ASCVD who met the definition of VHR ASCVD and a matched cohort of non‐VHR ASCVD patients using the incidence density sampling (IDS) approach; (2) estimation of the occurrence of major CV events.

Results

Among patients with ≥1 major ASCVD event (N=147,679), most qualified as VHR ASCVD (79.5%). There were 115,460 patients each in IDS‐matched VHR and non‐VHR ASCVD cohorts. The composite myocardial infarction/ischemic stroke event rates in the VHR and non‐VHR ASCVD cohorts were 8.04 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 7.87‐8.22) and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.77‐0.88) events per 100 patient‐years, respectively, during the 1‐year post‐index period.

Conclusions

Most patients with ≥1 previous major ASCVD event treated in real‐world US clinical practice qualified as VHR ASCVD. Patients with VHR ASCVD had much higher rates of major CV events versus non‐VHR ASCVD patients.
Economic distress, financial toxicity, and medical cost‐coping in young adult cancer survivors during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Findings from an online sample
Authors: Thom Bridgette , Benedict Catherine , Friedman Danielle N. , Watson Samantha E. , Zeitler Michelle S. , Chino Fumiko
Published: August 2021

Background

Young adult (YA) cancer survivors are at risk for financial toxicity during and after cancer treatment. Financial toxicity has been associated with medical‐related cost‐coping behaviors such as skipping or delaying treatment. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has resulted in dire economic consequences that may worsen financial hardship among young survivors.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional survey; data collection occurred online. A convenience sample was recruited through YA cancer advocacy groups and social media. Negative economic events associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic (eg, income loss, increased debt, and decreased job security) and medical‐related cost‐coping were documented. A validated measure assessed cancer‐related financial toxicity.

Results

Participants (N = 212) had a mean age of 35.3 years at survey completion and a mean age of 27.4 years at diagnosis. Financial toxicity (mean, 14.0; SD, 9.33) was high. Two‐thirds of the sample experienced at least 1 negative economic event during COVID‐19, and 71% engaged in at least 1 medical cost‐coping behavior. Cost‐coping and pandemic‐related negative economic events were significantly correlated with cancer‐related financial toxicity. In multivariable analyses, pandemic‐related negative economic events and financial toxicity were associated with cost‐coping.

Conclusions

Acute negative economic events associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic may exacerbate cancer‐related financial toxicity and overall financial hardship among YAs and lead to cost‐coping behaviors that can compromise survivorship care and health outcomes. Multilevel, systematic interventions are needed to address the financial needs of YA survivors after the global pandemic.
Molecular and Spectroscopic Characterization of Green and Red Cyanine Fluorophores from the Alexa Fluor and AF Series
Authors: Gebhardt Christian , Lehmann Martin , Reif Maria M. , Zacharias Martin , Gemmecker Gerd , Cordes Thorben
Published: August 2021

The front cover artwork was provided by Gabriel Moya, a PhD student in the Cordes lab (LMU Biocenter Munich, Germany). The cover image shows an artistic impression of the chemical structures of two fluorophores investigated in the paper. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202000935.
Environmental and seasonal correlates of capercaillie movement traits in a Swedish wind farm
Authors: Kämmerle Jim‐Lino , Taubmann Julia , Andrén Henrik , Fiedler Wolfgang , Coppes Joy
Published: August 2021

Animals continuously interact with their environment through behavioral decisions, rendering the appropriate choice of movement speed and directionality an important phenotypic trait. Anthropogenic activities may alter animal behavior, including movement. A detailed understanding of movement decisions is therefore of great relevance for science and conservation alike. The study of movement decisions in relation to environmental and seasonal cues requires continuous observation of movement behavior, recently made possible by high‐resolution telemetry. We studied movement traits of 13 capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), a mainly ground‐moving forest bird species of conservation interest, over two summer seasons in a Swedish windfarm using high‐resolution GPS tracking data (5‐min sampling interval). We filtered and removed unreliable movement steps using accelerometer data and step characteristics. We explored variation in movement speed and directionality in relation to environmental and seasonal covariates using generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs). We found evidence for clear daily and seasonal variation in speed and directionality of movement that reflected behavioral adjustments to biological and environmental seasonality. Capercaillie moved slower when more turbines were visible and faster close to turbine access roads. Movement speed and directionality were highest on open bogs, lowest on recent clear‐cuts (<5 y.o.), and intermediate in all types of forest. Our results provide novel insights into the seasonal and environmental correlates of capercaillie movement patterns and supplement previous behavioral observations on lekking behavior and wind turbine avoidance with a more mechanistic understanding.
Behavior‐specific habitat models as a tool to inform ungulate restoration
Authors: Lowrey B. , DeVoe J. D. , Proffitt K. M. , Garrott R. A.
Published: August 2021

Across North America, many ungulate species that experienced historic population declines and range contractions are now broadly distributed across their native ranges after the implementation of successful restoration programs. The use of translocation continues to serve as an important restoration tool and is often informed through habitat models used to identify potential translocation areas based on biotic and abiotic landscape characteristics. Within the context of partially migratory wildlife populations, resident and migrant population segments can select for varying habitat characteristics, yet these population segments are often pooled when building habitat models. We used a large spatial dataset collected from eight bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) populations to build separate winter and summer resource selection models for migrant and resident animals with the purposes of (1) characterizing differences in seasonal selection patterns between resident and migrant population segments and (2) generating broad spatial predictions of bighorn sheep habitat to inform future translocations across western Montana, USA. Lastly, we used the model to inform two potential management scenarios, first to establish a new population in an unoccupied area and second to expand the distribution of existing populations through intra‐mountain translocations. Selection patterns were generally similar among migrants and residents, especially in winter. Summer selection patterns varied between the two behaviors, with migrants selecting for higher elevations and residents selecting for lower elevations. Throughout the western Montana prediction area, bighorn sheep habitat was centered around mountain areas in all seasons. In the first management scenario, our model predicted that adequate resident and migratory bighorn sheep habitat existed in the restoration area, thus justifying the use of either resident or migrant source populations in translocation. In the second management scenario, our model predicted that there was broad potential for translocations into unoccupied areas adjacent to the current bighorn sheep distribution in western Montana. The behavior‐specific approach to predicting bighorn sheep seasonal habitat captures the specific habitat characteristics of multiple migratory behaviors and may help to inform targeted and effective translocation programs.
Techno‐economic analysis and energy performance of a geothermal earth‐to‐air heat exchanger (EAHE) system in residential buildings: A case study
Authors: Mostafaeipour Ali , Goudarzi Hossein , Khanmohammadi Mohammadali , Jahangiri Mehdi , Sedaghat Ahmad , Norouzianpour Hirbod , Chowdhury Shahariar , Techato Kuaanan , Issakhov Alibek , Almutairi Khalid , Hosseini Dehshiri Seyyed Jalaladdin
Published: August 2021

Natural air ventilation in the hot‐dry regions plays a key role to decrease indoor air temperature in hot season, also to improve thermal comfort during the cold season. One of the most common ways to take advantage of natural ventilation is using wind catcher with an underground tunnel. In this method, the tower catches the airflow and directs it to the underground tunnel to decrease the air temperature by transferring heat to the ground, which is cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Earth‐to‐air heat exchanger (EAHE) is a modern form of wind catcher with underground tunnel. In this method, air after passing through buried pipes exchanges heat with the ground, and its temperature increases in the winter and decreases during the summer. This study analyzes the energy performance and cost‐effectiveness of earth‐to‐air heat exchanger to be utilized in a residential building in climate condition of the province of Kermanin Iran. In this regard, 9 different configurations of the EAHE are investigated to find the optimized EAHE. The system performance and cost‐effectiveness are studied in 3 different depths including 1, 2, and 3 m with 3 different pipe lengths including 25, 50, and 75 m. The results show that the EAHE is capable of reducing the inlet air temperature by 0.5‐9.9℃ in the summer and increasing it by 0.9‐11.2℃ in the winter. Furthermore, by integrating the EAHEs in a building design, one can reduce the total annual cooling load by 1.25%‐3.97% and for heating by 1.34%‐3.96%. The payback period of the system with a pipe length of 25 m is 16 years, but for the systems with pipe lengths of 50 and 75 m, this period reduces to almost 3 years.
Multi‐objective optimization of integrated gas–electricity energy system based on improved multi‐object cuckoo algorithm
Authors: Yang Bowen
Published: August 2021

With the depletion of sources of primary energy across the world, the prospect of a global energy crisis in the near future has raised considerable concern. Among the many sources of clean energy, wind energy is considered to be the most effective means of sustainable and environmentally friendly energy. Traditional systems of energy based on oil and natural gas still operate in a discrete manner, and the promise offered by the mutual coordination between energy systems to draw complementary benefits has not yet been fully exploited. This has prompted all energy sectors to examine the optimal integration of interconnected gas–electricity energy systems. In this context, this study proposes a multi‐objective collaborative operational optimization model of P2G for an interconnected, integrated gas–electricity energy system in case of uncertain wind power. Based on the effect of carbon capture by using P2G, the effect of coupling gas and electricity, and the cost of low‐capacity reserves, the authors use conditional risk values to design four targets of optimization—the operating cost of the system, rate of consumption of the natural gas system, total carbon emissions and capacity stand‐by cost—according to the power system, natural gas system, thermal energy system, and their elements of coupling from multiple perspectives to clarify the constraints on the model. Moreover, to reduce the likelihood of the optimal solution falling into the local optimum, the improved cuckoo algorithm is used to optimize the multi‐objective scheduling model. The authors used a 10‐node power system and a six‐node natural gas system as examples for simulation to verify the proposed model. The results of empirical analysis show the following: (a) Once the P2G equipment had been connected, it reduced the total operating cost and improved the consumption of wind power of the natural gas system regardless of whether backup services were provided. (b) The P2G equipment could be combined with gas‐fired CHP units to “cut peaks and fill valleys” in the electrical load of the power system. These results verify the effectiveness of the proposed multi‐objective optimal dispatch model of an interconnected gas–electricity energy system.
Brutish Neanderthals: History of a merciless characterization
Authors: Madison Paige
Published: August 2021

The idea that Neanderthals were brutish and unintelligent is often traced back to Marcellin Boule, a French paleontologist who examined the specimen known as the Old Man in the first decades of the 20th century. This article examines the work of Boule's predecessors and aggregate a variety of literature to underline an argument that this idea has much earlier origins and is rooted in the first recognized specimen discovered in the Neander Valley in 1856. Reorienting our understanding of the brutish Neanderthal to account for its 19th‐century origins, allows for a reexamination of the factors in 19th‐century culture, science, and society which contributed to this caricature, especially the concepts of race and species' extinction. Such a reexamination dismantles the narrative of Boule's error while providing a new vantage point to think about Neanderthals in the present.
Optimization of novel multigrain pasta and evaluation of physicochemical properties: using D‐optimal mixture design
Authors: Kamali Rousta Leila , Pouya Ghandehari Yazdi Amir , Khorasani Sepideh , Tavakoli Mohammad , Ahmadi Zahra , Amini Mahdi
Published: August 2021

D‐optimal mixture design looked to be a priceless tool for optimizing the influences of semolina flour (SF), defatted soy flour (DSF), whole quinoa flour (WQF), whole rye flour (WRF), whole oat flour (WOF), whole barley flour (WBF), and rice flour (RF) on the quality attributes of multigrain pasta (MP). Multigrain flours were considered as the independent variables evaluated with respect to three response variables containing hardness and the amount of protein and fiber. Quadratic, linear, and linear models were chosen to explain the hardness and the amount of protein and fiber of the MPs, respectively. In optimal formulation of MP, that is, SF (57.34%,), DSF (14%), WQF (11%), WRF (7.54%), WOF (5.61%), WBF (2.51%), and RF (2%), the content of fiber and protein enhanced more than 4.12 and 1.34 times compared with SP, respectively. Therefore, according to the European Union law, it can be claimed that this pasta is a source of fiber. As the amount of protein and fiber increased, the hardness and optimal cooking time decreased, while the cooking loss increased. After cooking, MP was murkier and less yellow in color. The 2, 2‐ diphenyl‐ 1‐ picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition activity of the MP was about 2.5 times higher than the SP. Analysis of the antioxidant properties of the samples after cooking showed that the DPPH inhibition activity of the SP and MP reduced. The results indicated that the overall acceptability of MP was higher than SP. Based on our findings, these multigrain flours are probable to be applied as nutritious complements in the pasta industry to improve the functional characteristics.
Single stock futures and their impact on market quality: Be careful what you wish for
Authors: Curran Edward , Hunt Jack , Mollica Vito
Published: August 2021

We explore the relationship between efficiency and fairness around a natural experiment resulting in the delisting of equity‐linked single stock futures on the National Stock Exchange of India. We provide evidence that the presence of a derivative improves the liquidity of the underlying but decreases the degree of fairness—proxied by manipulation likelihood. Our study highlights that a leveraged derivative entices manipulation of the underlying and that typical inhibitors of manipulation, high execution costs, are conducive to successful market abuse.