bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levels of some organic pollutants in water samples of Adriatic Sea: Case study: Hot-spot of Porto-Romano, Albania
Authors: Nuro Aurel , Murtaj Bledar , Marku Elda
Published: February 2021

This paper presents concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in marine water samples of Porto-Romano area. Porto-Romano is situated in Adriatic Sea, near city of Durres, in central Albania. It was considered Hot-spot area because before 90' there was located chemical plant for Lindane production. Landfill near Porto-Romano and elevated activity for industrial development of this area can be the main sources of water pollution in recent years. Water samples were taken in December 2018 and April 2019 in nine stations of Porto-Romano. Liquid-liquid extraction was used for isolate organic pollutants from water samples. Clean-up procedure for chlorinated pollutants was realized in a Florisil column. Qualitative and quantitative analyzes of pesticides and PCBs were performed in HP 6890 Series II, gas chromatograph equipped with p-ECD detector. For separation of organochlorine pollutants was used Rtx-5 capillary column. Analyzes of PAH were realized in Varian 450 GC, gas chromatograph equipped with FID detector and VF-1ms capillary column. The most frequent organic pollutants in water samples of Porto-Romano were found organochlorine pesticides because of ex-chemical plants impact in this area. Note, that Lindane and its isomers weren't found in high concentration. PCB 28, volatile congener, was found in higher concentrations because of their atmospheric origin. Presence of PCB 138 show terrestrial origin of PCBs in this area. PAH were found in higher concentrations inside of hydrocarbon port. Their concentrations were due to industrial activity and ship transport in this area. Mismanagement of Lindane plant wastes, urban pollution and recent industrial activity are factors of continues pollution in Porto-Romano area. Presence of organic pollutants in water samples of Porto-Romano indicates that monitoring of this Hot-spot should be continuous.
Case study of extracting soil and land use maps to determine agricultural best management practices that can be applied to prevent erosion and fertile soil loss
Authors: Ernur Akıner
Published: February 2021

The Büyük Melen river in the Melen Basin meets Istanbul's drinking water needs. Protecting the basin against nutrient pollution is vital in this regard as well. This study focuses on the best possible management practice (BMPs) in the Melen Basin to reduce the export of nutrients from the agricultural areas. A region comprising industrial, farming, and residential zones is the Melen basin. There is a forecast of global climate change in Turkey, and scientists and also governors must know which areas are no longer farming zones and which will be more appropriate for agriculture. Turkey's territory is a high-risk desertification area. In Melen Basin, the soil type and land use properties have been determined and mapped using GIS and Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). Buffer BMP filter strips can be used effectively for nutrient protection that can be carried from residential areas and motorways by runoff. The region in the basin is steep, and its clay and sandy soil structures are ideal for parallel terraces, grade stabilization, strip, and contour cultivation. Unless the ground can not retain or store water, the soil can undergo sudden floods, causing an erosion of the soil's productive surface layer. When we protect the land, this condition is reduced. The land type and land use mapping should be drawn up as soon as possible for the remaining Turkish basins by scientific methods. This research is intended to be an illustration for researches on other agricultural basins in Turkey and the world for this reason.
Stress corrosion resistance of welded joints of low-alloy pipe steel produced by high frequency welding
Authors: Nyrkova Lyudmila , Prokopchuk Sergiy , Osadchuk Svetlana , Rybakov Anatoliy , Goncharenko Larisa
Published: February 2021

The paper presents the results of stress corrosion resistance studies of welded joints of low-alloy steel 17G1SU, obtained by high-frequency welding (HFW). The potentiometry method has established that the welded joint in the state after welding and after linear heat treatment is resistant to corrosion, because the potential difference between the weld and the base metal does not exceed (30-50) mV. According to the results of accelerated corrosion-mechanical tests in 3% NaCl under conditions of constant load under different stress, it was found that the rate of uniform corrosion of both types of welded joints is almost the same as the base metal. Slightly higher corrosion rate of the welded junction after linear heat treatment correlates with the electrochemical data. In general, the welded joint, made according to the factory technology, has resistance to corrosion and mechanical destruction in a solution of 3% NaCl at the level of the base metal, in the absence of weld defects. In the range of protective polarization potentials normalized by the standard of Ukraine, the ratio of the cathodic protection current to the diffusion current limit for the base metal and for the weld metal practically does not differ. It can be expected that under the conditions of cathodic protection, the predominant local flooding of the weld metal or the parent metal is not expected.
TiO2 based nanomaterials and nanostructures for green convergent technologies and environmental protection
Authors: Pavlović Vladimir , Vujančević Jelena , Vlahović Branislav , Pavlović Vera
Published: February 2021

Taking into account the importance of development of the advanced nanomaterials for the environmental protection, in this article the application of TiO2 based nanomaterials and nanostructures in the fields of renewable energy, chemical and bio decontamination has been presented. The role of TiO2 in formation of composite hybrid structures for solar energy harvesting has been explained, as well as the use photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. properties of TiO2 nanotubes obtained by decontamination.
Evolutionary dynamics of transposable elements in bdelloid rotifers
Authors: Nowell Reuben W , Wilson Christopher G , Almeida Pedro , Schiffer Philipp H , Fontaneto Diego , Becks Lutz , Rodriguez Fernando , Arkhipova Irina R , Barraclough Timothy G
Published: February 2021

Transposable elements (TEs) are selfish genomic parasites whose ability to spread autonomously is facilitated by sexual reproduction in their hosts. If hosts become obligately asexual, TE frequencies and dynamics are predicted to change dramatically, but the long-term outcome is unclear. Here, we test current theory using whole-genome sequence data from eight species of bdelloid rotifers, a class of invertebrates in which males are thus far unknown. Contrary to expectations, we find a variety of active TEs in bdelloid genomes, at an overall frequency within the range seen in sexual species. We find no evidence that TEs are spread by cryptic recombination or restrained by unusual DNA repair mechanisms. Instead, we find that that TE content evolves relatively slowly in bdelloids and that gene families involved in RNAi-mediated TE suppression have undergone significant expansion, which might mitigate the deleterious effects of active TEs and compensate for the consequences of long-term asexuality.
Socioeconomic status relates to exercise habits and cardiorespiratory fitness among workers in the Tokyo area
Authors: Matsuo Tomoaki , So Rina
Published: February 2021

Objectives

This survey aims to investigate consciousness regarding habitual exercise among workers in urban areas and to analyze the associations of workers’ socioeconomic status with their habitual exercise and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

Methods

Ten thousand participants, who worked in the Tokyo area of Japan, were recruited for the questionnaire-based survey. The questionnaire elicited participant’s characteristics, socioeconomic status (eg, employment status and annual income), habitual exercise status, and consciousness regarding exercising. After the data-cleaning procedure, 9406 participants were selected for analyses. CRF was estimated by a validated equation model.

Results

Some (32.9%) participants had an exercise habit, and 93% recognized that exercise is good for health. Of the nonexercise habit group (n = 6308), 73% wanted to develop an exercise habit, and “spare time (40%)” and “financial capability (16%)” were the two most necessary conditions for habituating exercise. As socioeconomic statuses increased, the odds ratios (ORs) for engaging in habitual exercise increased among full-time (1.22) versus part-time (reference) employees and those having high (1.76) versus low (reference) incomes, whereas the ORs for low CRF risk decreased among full-time (0.78) versus part-time (reference) employees and those having high (0.53) versus low (reference) incomes.

Conclusions

Although most workers recognized the benefits of exercise, many were unable to develop exercise habits and believed that they could develop exercise habits if they had the time and financial capabilities. The survey suggests that workers with a higher socioeconomic status more likely to obtain favorable physical fitness, indicating a health disparity among workers in urban areas.
Structural analyses of PCNA from the fungal pathogen Candida albicans identify three regions with species‐specific conformations
Authors: Sundaram Rajivgandhi , Manohar Kodavati , Patel Shraddheya Kumar , Acharya Narottam , Vasudevan Dileep
Published: February 2021

An assembly of multiprotein complexes achieves chromosomal DNA replication at the replication fork. In eukaryotes, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) plays a vital role in the assembly of multiprotein complexes at the replication fork and is essential for cell viability. PCNA from several organisms, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has been structurally characterised. However, the structural analyses of PCNA from fungal pathogens are limited. Recently, we have reported that PCNA from the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans complements the essential functions of ScPCNA in S. cerevisiae. Still, it only partially rescues the loss of ScPCNA when the yeast cells are under genotoxic stress. To understand this further, herein, we have determined the crystal structure of CaPCNA and compared that with the existing structures of other fungal and human PCNA. Our comparative structural and in‐solution small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) analyses reveal that CaPCNA forms a stable homotrimer, both in crystal and in solution. It displays noticeable structural alterations in the oligomerisation interface, P‐loop and hydrophobic pocket regions, suggesting its differential function in a heterologous system and avenues for developing specific therapeutics.

Databases

The PDB and SASBDB accession codes for CaPCNA are 7BUP and SASDHQ9, respectively.
Clinical utility of targeted next‐generation sequencing for the diagnosis of myeloid neoplasms with germline predisposition
Authors: Andrés‐Zayas Cristina , Suárez‐González Julia , Rodríguez‐Macías Gabriela , Dorado Nieves , Osorio Santiago , Font Patricia , Carbonell Diego , Chicano María , Muñiz Paula , Bastos Mariana , Kwon Mi , Díez‐Martín José Luis , Buño Ismael , Martínez‐Laperche Carolina
Published: February 2021

Myeloid neoplasms (MN) with germline predisposition (MNGP) are likely to be more common than currently appreciated. Many of the genes involved in MNGP are also recurrently mutated in sporadic MN. Therefore, routine analysis of gene panels by next‐generation sequencing provides an effective approach to detect germline variants with clinical significance in patients with hematological malignancies. Gene panel sequencing was performed in 88 consecutive and five nonconsecutive patients with MN diagnosis. Disease‐causing germline mutations in CEBPα, ASXL1, TP53, MPL, GATA2, DDX41, and ETV6 genes were identified in nine patients. Six out of the nine patients with germline variants had a strong family history. These patients presented great heterogeneity in the age of diagnosis and phenotypic characteristics. In our study, there were families in which all the affected members presented the same subtype of disease, whereas members of other families presented various disease phenotypes. This intrafamiliar heterogeneity suggests that the acquisition of particular somatic variants may drive the evolution of the disease. This approach enabled high‐throughput detection of MNGP in patients with MN diagnosis, which is of great relevance for both the patients themselves and the asymptomatic mutation carriers within the family. It is crucial to make a proper diagnosis of these patients to provide them with the most suitable treatment, follow‐up, and genetic counseling.
Seeded assembly in vitro does not replicate the structures of α‐synuclein filaments from multiple system atrophy
Authors: Lövestam Sofia , Schweighauser Manuel , Matsubara Tomoyasu , Murayama Shigeo , Tomita Taisuke , Ando Takashi , Hasegawa Kazuko , Yoshida Mari , Tarutani Airi , Hasegawa Masato , Goedert Michel , Scheres Sjors H. W.
Published: February 2021

The propagation of conformational strains by templated seeding is central to the prion concept. Seeded assembly of α‐synuclein into filaments is believed to underlie the prion‐like spreading of protein inclusions in a number of human neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). We previously determined the atomic structures of α‐synuclein filaments from the putamen of five individuals with MSA. Here, we used filament preparations from three of these brains for the in vitro seeded assembly of recombinant human α‐synuclein. We find that the structures of the seeded assemblies differ from those of the seeds, suggesting that additional, as yet unknown, factors play a role in the propagation of the seeds. Identification of these factors will be essential for understanding the prion‐like spreading of α‐synuclein proteinopathies.
Ten principles for generating accessible and useable COVID‐19 environmental science and a fit‐for‐purpose evidence base
Authors: Kadykalo Andrew N. , Haddaway Neal R. , Rytwinski Trina , Cooke Steven J.
Published: February 2021

1. The ‘anthropause’, a period of unusually reduced human activity and mobility due to COVID‐19 restrictions, has serendipitously opened up unique opportunities for research on how human activities impact the environment.

2. In the field of health, COVID‐19 research has led to concerns about the quality of research papers and the underlying research and publication processes due to accelerated peer review and publication schedules, increases in pre‐prints and retractions.

3. In the field of environmental science, framing the pandemic and associated global lockdowns as an unplanned global human confinement experiment with urgency should raise the same concerns about the rigorousness and integrity of the scientific process. Furthermore, the recognition of an ‘infodemic’, an unprecedented explosion of research, risks research waste and duplication of effort, although how information is used is as important as the quality of evidence. This highlights the need for an evidence base that is easy to find and use – that is discoverable, curated, synthesizable, synthesized.

4. We put forward a list of 10 key principles to support the establishment of a reproducible, replicable, robust, rigorous, timely and synthesizable COVID‐19 environmental evidence base that avoids research waste and is resilient to the pressures to publish urgently. These principles focus on engaging relevant actors (e.g. local communities, rightsholders) in research design and production, statistical power, collaborations, evidence synthesis, research registries and protocols, open science and transparency, data hygiene (cleanliness) and integrity, peer review transparency, standardized keywords and controlled vocabularies.
Dynamics of pseudo‐atrophy in RRMS reveals predominant gray matter compartmentalization
Authors: De Stefano Nicola , Giorgio Antonio , Gentile Giordano , Stromillo Maria Laura , Cortese Rosa , Gasperini Claudio , Visconti Andrea , Sormani Maria Pia , Battaglini Marco
Published: February 2021

Objective

To assess the dynamics of “pseudo‐atrophy,” the accelerated brain volume loss observed after initiation of anti‐inflammatory therapies, in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

Monthly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data of patients from the IMPROVE clinical study (NCT00441103) comparing relapsing‐remitting MS patients treated with interferon beta‐1a (IFNβ‐1a) for 40 weeks versus those receiving placebo (16 weeks) and then IFNβ‐1a (24 weeks) were used to assess percentage of gray (PGMVC) and white matter (PWMVC) volume changes. Comparisons of PGMVC and PWMVC slopes were performed with a mixed effect linear model. In the IFNβ‐1a‐treated arm, a quadratic term was included in the model to evaluate the plateauing effect over 40 weeks.

Results

Up to week 16, PGMVC was −0.14% per month in the placebo and −0.27% per month in treated patients (P < 0.001). Over the same period, the decrease in PWMVC was −0.067% per month in the placebo and −0.116% per month in treated patients (P = 0.27). Similar changes were found in the group originally randomized to placebo when starting IFNβ‐1a treatment (week 16–40, reliability analysis). In the originally treated group, over 40 weeks, the decrease in PGMVC showed a significant (P < 0.001) quadratic component, indicating a plateauing at week 20.

Interpretation

Findings reported here add new insights into the complex mechanisms of pseudo‐atrophy and its relation to the compartmentalized inflammation occurring in the GM of MS patients. Ongoing and forthcoming clinical trials including MRI‐derived GM volume loss as an outcome measure need to account for potentially significant GM volume changes as part of the initial treatment effect.
Did I visit the polar bear before the giraffe? Examining memory for temporal order and the temporal distance effect in early to middle childhood
Authors: Deker Lina , Pathman Thanujeni
Published: February 2021

Memory for the temporal order of past events is a critical capacity; however, relatively little is known about its development and the processes that support it in early to middle childhood. The aim of this study was to examine children's memory for the temporal order of real‐world events. Four–five‐year‐old (n= 36), 6–7‐year‐old (n= 45) and 8–10‐year‐old (n= 46) children participated in a week‐long camp at a local zoo, which involved engaging activities and visits to animals each day. On the last day of camp, we tested children's memory for the order of pairs of animals visited. The elapsed time (lag) between event pairs was manipulated to test whether children's accuracy would show the temporal distance effect and give us insights into the processes supporting temporal memory. We found that 8–10‐year‐olds, but not younger groups, showed the temporal distance effect. Implications for our understanding of the cognitive processes supporting temporal memory development are discussed.
Extraordinary face recognition performance in laboratory and online testing
Authors: Petersen Lara Aylin , Leue Anja
Published: February 2021

The Cambridge Face Memory Test Long (CFMT+) is used to investigate extraordinary face recognition abilities (super‐recognizers [SR]). Whether lab and online presentation of the CFMT+ lead to different test performance has not yet been investigated. Furthermore, we wanted to investigate psychometric properties of the CFMT+ and the Glasgow face matching test – short (GFMT‐S). We report item difficulties, Cronbach's Alpha, and T norms for the CFMT+ and GFMT‐S depending on the presentation mode. We analyzed variations of CFMT+ and GFMT‐S performance by means of presentation mode, age, and gender. The results showed significant better CFMT+ performance for online presentation, women, and participants between 26 and 35 years of age. For the GFMT‐S, significantly higher test performance was shown for online participants exclusively. Overall, we discuss the modulating effects of participants' motivation for online assessments, the necessity of differential norms (e.g., for personnel decisions), and the application of T norms.
A Multianalyte Assay Panel With Cell‐Bound Complement Activation Products Predicts Transition of Probable Lupus to American College of Rheumatology–Classified Lupus
Authors: Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Alexander Roberta Vezza , Conklin John , Arriens Cristina , Narain Sonali , Massarotti Elena M. , Wallace Daniel J. , Collins Christopher E. , Saxena Amit , Putterman Chaim , Brady Kelley , Kalunian Kenneth C. , Weinstein Arthur
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the usefulness of biomarkers to predict the evolution of patients suspected of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), designated as probable SLE (pSLE), into classifiable SLE according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria.

Methods

Patients suspected of SLE were enrolled by lupus experts if they fulfilled three ACR criteria for SLE and were followed for approximately 1‐3 years to evaluate transition into ACR‐classifiable SLE. Individual cell‐bound complement activation products (CB‐CAPs), serum complement proteins (C3 and C4), and autoantibodies were measured by flow cytometry, turbidimetry, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Blood levels of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) were measured by mass spectrometry. A multianalyte assay panel (MAP), which includes CB‐CAPs, was also evaluated. A MAP of greater than 0.8 reflected the optimal cutoff for transition to SLE. Time to fulfillment of ACR criteria was evaluated by Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Of the 92 patients with pSLE enrolled, 74 had one or two follow‐up visits 9‐35 months after enrollment for a total of 128 follow‐up visits. Overall, 28 patients with pSLE (30.4%) transitioned to ACR‐classifiable SLE, including 16 (57%) in the first year and 12 (43%) afterwards. A MAP score of greater than 0.8 at enrollment predicted transition to classifiable SLE during the follow‐up period (hazard ratio = 2.72; P = 0.012), whereas individual biomarkers or fulfillment of Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics criteria did not. HCQ therapy was not associated with the prevention of transition to SLE.

Conclusion

Approximately one‐third of patients with pSLE transitioned within the study period. MAP of greater than 0.8 predicted disease evolution into classifiable SLE.
Reprogramming the Tumor Microenvironment through Second‐Near‐Infrared‐Window Photothermal Genome Editing of PD‐L1 Mediated by Supramolecular Gold Nanorods for Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Tang Honglin , Xu Xiaojie , Chen Yuxuan , Xin Huhu , Wan Tao , Li Bowen , Pan Hongming , Li Da , Ping Yuan
Published: February 2021

A photothermal genome‐editing strategy is described to improve immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy by CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated disruption of PD‐L1 and mild‐hyperthermia‐induced activation of immunogenic cell death (ICD). This strategy relies on a supramolecular cationic gold nanorod that not only serves as a carrier to deliver CRISPR/Cas9 targeting PD‐L1, but also harvests the second near‐infrared‐window (NIR‐II) light and converts into mild hyperthermia to induce both ICD and gene expression of Cas9. The genomic disruption of PD‐L1 significantly augments ICB therapy by improving the conversion of dendritic cells to T cells, followed by promoting the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes into tumors, thereby reprogramming immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment into immunoactive one. Such a therapeutic modality greatly inhibits the activity of primary and metastatic tumors and exhibits long‐term immune memory effects against both rechallenged and recurrent tumors. The current therapeutic strategy for synergistic PD‐L1 disruption and ICD activation represents an appealing way for cancer immunotherapy.
Epitaxial Ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 with Metallic Pyrochlore Oxide Electrodes
Authors: Zhang Zimeng , Hsu Shang‐Lin , Stoica Vladimir A. , Paik Hanjong , Parsonnet Eric , Qualls Alexander , Wang Jianjun , Xie Liang , Kumari Mukesh , Das Sujit , Leng Zhinan , McBriarty Martin , Proksch Roger , Gruverman Alexei , Schlom Darrell G. , Chen Long‐Qing , Salahuddin Sayeef , Martin Lane W. , Ramesh Ramamoorthy
Published: February 2021

The synthesis of fully epitaxial ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) thin films through the use of a conducting pyrochlore oxide electrode that acts as a structural and chemical template is reported. Such pyrochlores, exemplified by Pb2Ir2O7(PIO) and Bi2Ru2O7(BRO), exhibit metallic conductivity with room‐temperature resistivity of <1 mΩ cm and are closely lattice matched to yttria‐stabilized zirconia substrates as well as the HZO layers grown on top of them. Evidence for epitaxy and domain formation is established with X‐ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy, which show that the c‐axis of the HZO film is normal to the substrate surface. The emergence of the non‐polar‐monoclinic phase from the polar‐orthorhombic phase is observed when the HZO film thickness is ≥≈30 nm. Thermodynamic analyses reveal the role of epitaxial strain and surface energy in stabilizing the polar phase as well as its coexistence with the non‐polar‐monoclinic phase as a function of film thickness.
Pseudosolvent Intercalator of Chitin: Self‐Exfoliating into Sub‐1 nm Thick Nanofibrils for Multifunctional Chitinous Materials
Authors: Yang Kaihua , Zhou Youshuang , Wang Zengbing , Li Mingjie , Shi Dean , Wang Xianbao , Jiang Tao , Zhang Qunchao , Ding Beibei , You Jun
Published: February 2021

Traditionally, energy‐intensive and time‐consuming postmechanical disintegration processes are inevitable in extracting biopolymer nanofibrils from natural materials and thereby hinder their practical applications. Herein, a new, convenient, scalable, and energy‐efficient method for exfoliating nanofibrils (ChNFs) from various chitin sources via pseudosolvent‐assisted intercalation process is proposed. These self‐exfoliated ChNFs possess controllable thickness from 2.2 to 0.8 nm, average diameter of 4–5 nm, high aspect ratio up to 103 and customized surface chemistries. Particularly, compared with elementary nanofibrils, ChNFs with few molecular layers thick exhibit greater potential to construct high‐performance structural materials, e.g., ductile nanopapers with large elongation up to 70.1% and toughness as high as 30.2 MJ m−3, as well as soft hydrogels with typical nonlinear elasticity mimicking that of human‐skin. The proposed self‐exfoliation concept with unique advantages in the combination of high yield, energy efficiency, scalable productivity, less equipment requirements, and mild conditions opens up a door to extract biopolymer nanofibrils on an industrial scale. Moreover, the present modular ChNFs exfoliation will facilitate researchers to study the effect of thickness on the properties of nanofibrils and provide more insight into the structure–function relationship of biopolymer‐based materials.
Scalable Assembly of Flexible Ultrathin All‐in‐One Zinc‐Ion Batteries with Highly Stretchable, Editable, and Customizable Functions
Authors: Yao Minjie , Yuan Zishun , Li Saisai , He Tingwei , Wang Rui , Yuan Mingjian , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: February 2021

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are considered to be a promising candidate for flexible energy storage devices due to their high safety and low cost. However, the scalable assembly of flexible ZIBs is still a challenge. Here, a scalable assembly strategy is developed to fabricate flexible ZIBs with an ultrathin all‐in‐one structure by combining blade coating with a rolling assembly process. Such a unique all‐in‐one integrated structure can effectively avoid the relative displacement or detachment between neighboring components to ensure continuous and effective ion‐ and/or loading‐transfer capacity under external deformation, resulting in excellent structural and electrochemical stability. Furthermore, the ultrathin all‐in‐one ZIBs can be tailored and edited controllably into desired shapes and structures, further extending their editable, stretchable, and shape‐customized functions. In addition, the ultrathin all‐in‐one ZIBs display the ability to integrate with perovskite solar cells to achieve an energy harvesting and storage integrated system. These enlighten a broad area of flexible ZIBs to be compatible with highly flexible and wearable electronics. The scaling‐up assembly strategy provides a route to design other ultrathin all‐in‐one energy storage devices with stretchable, editable, and customizable behaviors.
Soft Actuators of Liquid Crystal Polymers Fueled by Light from Ultraviolet to Near Infrared
Authors: Qin Lang , Liu Xiaojun , Yu Yanlei
Published: February 2021

Photodeformable liquid crystal polymers (LCPs) are a typical representative of shape‐changing systems capable of remotely converting light energy into mechanical actuation. Such smart polymeric materials combining the features of polymers and liquid crystals (LCs) are envisioned to bring new functionality and drive innovation in the fields of soft robotics, solar‐energy harvesting, and microfluidics. The photodeformable LCPs and their soft actuators fueled by light from ultraviolet to near infrared, including basic actuation as well as the primary mechanisms are focused on. The complex actuation is also highlighted with emphasis on the designed LC alignment, such as splayed, twisted, out‐plane, and patterned, which bridges the gap between the shape change and practical applications. Special attention is devoted to the progress of light‐fueled soft actuators, which are classified into different categories and comprehensively summarized in the aspects of materials, alignment, mechanisms, and light stimuli. An outlook on future challenges and limitations in the light‐fueled soft actuators are discussed at the end of this review.
Photonic Synapses with Ultra‐Low Energy Consumption Based on Vertical Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Chen Tianqi , Wang Xin , Hao Dandan , Dai Shilei , Ou Qingqing , Zhang Junyao , Huang Jia
Published: February 2021

Artificial synapses have shown great potential in the research of artificial intelligence and brain‐like computing. Artificial synaptic devices based on vertical organic field‐effect transistors (VOFETs) exhibit shorter carrier transmission distances and more stable source–drain currents than conventional planar organic transistors due to their smaller channel lengths. By taking advantage of the vertical structure, low working voltage can be achieved. Here, vertical synaptic devices with working voltage as low as 10 µV and ultra‐low power consumption (≈1.3 fJ per spike) are proposed. VOFET‐based artificial photonic synaptic devices can successfully simulate typical synaptic behavior, including excitatory post‐synaptic current, short‐term plasticity, and long‐term plasticity. Furthermore, VOFET arrays are demonstrated to enable image contrast enhancement function. This work provides a new approach for the realization of artificial synapses through a simple manufacturing process.
Dual‐Color Emission from Monolithic m‐Plane Core–Shell InGaN/GaN Quantum Wells
Authors: Kapoor Akanksha , Grenier Vincent , Robin Eric , Bougerol Catherine , Jacopin Gwénolé , Gayral Bruno , Tchernycheva Maria , Eymery Joël , Durand Christophe
Published: February 2021

A dual‐color emission is achieved combining two monolithic sets of core–shell multiple quantum wells (MQWs) grown on GaN microwires. The shell heterostructure is composed of 3× blue MQWs and 7× green MQWs with photoluminescence emission covering 400–450 and 450–550 nm wavelength bands, respectively. Both emissions are coming from the two MQW sets grown on m‐plane sidewall surface, as revealed by cathodoluminescence mapping. Advanced structural characterization combining transmission electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis is performed on longitudinal cross‐sectional slices of the wires. Considering asymmetrical QW interface, the In content is measured to be equal to 15.7 (±0.5)% and 23.5 (±2.0)% in the first and the second MQW set consistent with the blue and green emissions. Extended defects are formed originating from the second MQW set due to higher In content. A flexible light‐emitting diode (LED) is fabricated based on these dual core–shell MQWs, showing an electroluminescence dominated by green emission due to efficient hole injection in the In‐rich second MQW set. This work opens the way for multiple color emission from core–shell MQWs for phosphor‐free nanowire‐based LED applications.
Clustering‐Induced White Light Emission from Carbonized Polymer Dots
Authors: Liu Bin , Chen Zheng , Chu Bo , Wang Ya-Ling , Li Ning , Zhang Huinian , Yang Yongzhen , Hu Shengliang , Zhang Xing-Hong
Published: February 2021

Despite the advancements in synthetic methods, it is still challenging to prepare white light‐emitting carbon dots for solid‐state white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Herein, the synthesis and characterization of a carbonized polymer dot (CPD) that emits white light in the solid state are presented. The reaction of an oxygen‐rich precursor, trimethylolpropane tri(cyclic carbonate) ether, with nitrogen‐rich melamine in an alcohol via a single‐step solvothermal method affords CPDs with hydroxyurethane and CN groups. The morphology of the CPDs can be regulated by changing the reaction time. Transmission electron microscopy reveals structural evolution from flocculent polymers to dandelion‐like and spherical particles with an increase in the carbonization time from 6 to 12 and 18 h, respectively. The dandelion‐like CPDs exhibit a relatively high quantum yield of 7.5% in the solid state, which is ascribed to the abundant surface poly(hydroxyurethane) chains that restrict the aggregation‐caused quenching of luminescence. It is proposed that multiple coexistent clusters generate different emission sites, thereby leading to white light emission. Loose clusters formed from hydroxyurethane and CN bonds, which have a low degree of conjugation, emit blue light, whereas compact clusters generated through interactions between the hydroxyurethane and CN bonds of poly(hydroxyurethane) and carbon cores emit yellow light.
Single Whispering Gallery Mode in Mesh‐Structured Tubular Microcavity with Tunable Axial Confinement
Authors: Wang Yunqi , Wang Yang , Huang Gaoshan , Kong Ye , Liu Chang , Zhao Zhe , Wu Kaibo , Mei Yongfeng
Published: February 2021

Single‐mode lasing with high‐beam quality and wide‐range spectral purity is of fundamental importance in scientific and technical applications. Lacking a mode selection strategy, achieving single whispering gallery mode (WGM)‐type lasing remains a challenge. Herein, a wide‐range tunable single‐WGM resonance in a mesh‐structured tubular microcavity is realized by combining WGM resonance with distributed feedback effect, and the single mode can be systematically and precisely tuned by tailoring the geometry parameters of the hole array. In addition, switching between single mode and multimode WGM can be achieved at different axial directions of one individual tubular microcavity. The structure provides additional degrees of freedom to manipulate the resonant spectra characteristics and the spatial distribution of resonant modes, thus having a promising future in micro‐/nano‐optical devices.
High‐Performance Photodetector based on a 3D Dirac Semimetal Cd3As2/Tungsten Disulfide (WS2) van der Waals Heterojunction
Authors: Zhang Xingchao , Pan Rui , Yang Yunkun , Han Qi , Liu Xianchao , Zhang Chaoyi , Zhou Hongxi , Han Jiayue , Gou Jun , Wang Jun
Published: February 2021

Recently, heterojunction photodetectors have attracted significant interest due to the multiple degrees of freedom reorganization, integrating advantages of different typed materials. Herein, a high‐performance photodetector based on a 3D Dirac semimetal Cd3As2/tungsten disulfide (WS2) heterojunction is demonstrated, which is constructed by directly transferring exfoliated 2D few layer WS2 on Cd3As2 nano‐belt and following by annealing treatment. The resulting Cd3As2/WS2 heterojunction device presents superior performance with a high on/off ratio (≈5.3 × 104) and a responsivity (Ri) of about 223.5 AW−1 at 520 nm, as well as an outstanding detectivity (D*) of about 2.05 × 1014 Jones at 808 nm near‐IR waveband. However, the optimized noise equivalent power (NEP) is evaluated about 6.17 × 10−14 WHz−1/2 by the noise power density spectrum. The excellent performance can be attributed to a high‐quality heterostructure interface, strong light absorption capacity, and ultralow dark current in a Cd3As2/WS2 heterojunction system. This work provides a promising platform to develop a high‐performance optoelectronic device based on 3D Dirac semimetal and 2D TMDs families.
Cascade Chan‐Lam C−O Coupling/[3,3]‐Rearrangement of Arylhydroxylamines with Arylboronic Acids Toward NOBIN Analogues
Authors: Wang Min , Liu Yue , Wang Liying , Lu Haifeng , Feng Lei , Gao Hongyin
Published: February 2021

Herein, we developed a copper‐mediated Chan‐Lam type O‐arylation of arylhydroxylamines with arylboronic acids to generate transient N,O‐diarylhydroxylamines that could rapidly undergo cascade [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement and rearomatization to afford NOBIN (2‐amino‐2′‐hydroxy‐1,1′‐binaphthyl) analogues under mild conditions. The newly synthesized racemic biaryl products can be further resolved by a chiral DMAP‐catalyzed O‐acylation/kinetic resolution protocol.

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Transition Metal‐Free Synthesis of Sulfonyl‐ and Bromo‐Substituted Indolo[2,1‐α]isoquinoline Derivatives through Electrochemical Radical Cascade Cyclization
Authors: Shen Zheng‐Jia , Huang Binbin , Ma Na , Yao Lijuan , Yang Chao , Guo Lin , Xia Wujiong
Published: February 2021

A tunable electrosynthesis of sulfonyl‐ and bromo‐substituted indolo[2,1‐α]isoquinoline derivatives has been disclosed. In this reaction, a variety of easily available 2‐aryl‐N‐acryloyl indoles can readily react with sulfonyl and/or bromine radicals, which are generated from arylsulfonyl hydrazides and potassium bromide respectively, to furnish the valuable sulfonyl‐ and bromo‐substituted benzindolo‐fused polycyclic compounds in moderate to good yields. Control experiment indicated that the reaction proceeds via a radical cascade cyclization pathway. This protocol features broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance under transition metal‐free and oxidant‐free conditions.

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Growing water scarcities: Responses of India and China
Authors: Lele Uma
Published: February 2021

In this article, I explore why China has surged ahead of India in irrigation and water management and in dealing with water scarcities. I offer a comparison of the two countries' policies and investment strategies using a political economy context.
Covalent Organic Frameworks for Efficient Energy Electrocatalysis: Rational Design and Progress
Authors: Zhang Hua , Zhu Minshen , Schmidt Oliver G. , Chen Shuiliang , Zhang Kai
Published: February 2021

An efficient catalyst with a precisely designed and predictable structure is highly desired to optimize its performance and understand the mechanism beyond the catalytic activity. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), as an emerging class of framework materials linked by strong covalent bonds, simultaneously allow precise structure design with predictable synthesis and show advantages of large surface areas, tunable pore sizes, and unique molecular architectures. Although the research on COF‐based electrocatalysts is at an early age, significant progress has been made. Herein, the recent significant progress in the design and synthesis of COFs as highly efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is summarized. Design principles for COFs as efficient electrocatalysts are discussed by considering essential factors for catalyzing the OER, ORR, and HER processes at the molecular level. Herein, a summary on the in‐depth understanding of the catalytic mechanism and kinetics limitations of COFs provides a general instruction for further exploring their vast potential for designing highly efficient electrocatalysts.
Preparing students for residency interviews in the age of COVID: Lessons learned from a standardized video interview preparation program
Authors: Leung Cynthia G. , Malone Matthew , Way David P. , Barrie Michael G. , Kman Nicholas E. , San Miguel Christopher
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The COVID‐19 pandemic has necessitated the widescale adoption of video‐based interviewing for residency applications. Video interviews have previously been used in the residency application process through the pilot program of the American Association of Medical Colleges standardized video interview (SVI). We conducted an SVI preparation program with our students over 3 years that consisted of an instructional lecture, deliberate practice in video interviewing, and targeted feedback by emergency medicine faculty. The aim of this investigation was to summarize the feedback students received on their practice SVIs to provide the guidance they need for preparing for the video interviews that will replace in‐person interviews with residency programs.

Methods

A retrospective thematic analysis was conducted on faculty feedback provided to students who had completed SVI practice videos in preparation for their application to an EM residency between June 2017 and July 2019. Categorized comments were also sorted by type of faculty feedback: positive reinforcement, constructive criticism, or both.

Results

Forty‐six medical students received 334 feedback elements from three faculty. Feedback was balanced between positive reinforcement statements and constructive criticism. Students performed well on appearance and attire, creating a proper recording environment, and response content. They needed the most guidance with the delivery of content and the technical quality of the video.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate a need for formal instruction in how to communicate effectively through the video medium. Medical educators will need to formally prepare students for tele‐interviews with residency programs, with an emphasis on communication skills and techniques for improving the quality of their video presentation, including lighting and camera placement.
Short‐term effects of combined organic amendments on soil organic carbon sequestration in a rain‐fed winter wheat system
Authors: Li Xiushuang , Liang Zhiying , Li Yunuo , Zhu Yihui , Tian Xiaohong , Shi Jianglan , Wei Gehong
Published: February 2021

Organic input is a widely recognized amendment for soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration and soil quality improvement. A short‐term (2‐yr) field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of green manure (GM) planting, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) straw return and farmyard manure application, and their interactions on SOC sequestration in a rain‐fed winter wheat system in Northwest China. Ten combinations of two cultivation practices, conventional wheat monoculture (G0) and green manure–winter wheat rotation (G), and five fertilization methods during the wheat season: (a) no basal fertilization (B0), (b) basal chemical fertilization (B), (c) basal chemical fertilization plus wheat straw return (B + S), (d) basal chemical fertilization plus manure application (B + M) and (e) basal chemical fertilization plus wheat straw return and manure application (B + S+ M) were tested. Compared with their controls, M, S, and G increased the SOC stock in the 0‐to‐10‐cm soil layer by an average of 20.7, 6.8, and 6.3%, respectively, and increased in the 10‐to‐20‐cm soil layer by an average of 15.8, 4.7, and 6.6%, respectively. Manure exhibited a 55.9% carbon sequestration efficiency (CSE) in the 0‐to‐20‐cm soil layer, followed by GM and wheat straw which exhibited CSEs of 27.7 and 19.3%, respectively. Nevertheless, combinations of G, M, and S, increased the SOC stock in cumulative manners without significant interactions. Positive relationships (P < .05) existed between the SOC sequestration and cumulative C input in both G0 and G. Therefore, G, S, and M, and their combinations were all effective for SOC sequestration in this cropping system. The G + M+ S was optimal for promoting SOC sequestration over the short term.
Iterative lumping approach for representing lipid feedstocks in fatty acid distillation simulation and optimization
Authors: Nachtergaele Pieter , de Somer Tobias , Gelaude Bastiaan , Hogie Joël , Thybaut Joris W. , de Meester Steven , Drijvers David , Dewulf Jo
Published: February 2021

The complexity of lipid feedstocks and the lack of data on physical properties hinder the simulation of oleochemical processing units. In this work, an iterative lumping approach is proposed to define an adequate number of key compounds such that diversification between lipid feedstocks becomes possible, while keeping the determination of physical properties as required for process modeling manageable. As a case study, the iterative lumping approach is used for simulation and optimization of a fatty acid distillation plant. For predicting vapor–liquid equilibria of fatty acids, the best results were acquired using the property method universal quasichemical‐Hayden–O'Conell. Using the iterative lumping approach, 11 key compounds were selected to represent the feedstock. The process model properly predicts the product composition, yield, purity and heat duty. The most important process parameters are found to be side‐reflux‐ratio, reboiler‐outlet‐temperature, and heat‐duty of the pitch‐distiller. For optimization, an increase of the side‐reflux‐ratio and reboiler‐outlet‐temperature is recommended.
Hydroyxurea improves cerebral oxygen saturation in children with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Karkoska Kristine , Quinn Charles T. , Niss Omar , Pfeiffer Amanda , Dong Min , Vinks Alexander A. , McGann Patrick T.
Published: February 2021

Neurologic complications are common in patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA), but conventional tools such as MRI and transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD) do not fully assess cerebrovascular pathology. Cerebral tissue oximetry measures mixed oxygen saturation in the frontal lobes (SCTO2) and provides early prognostic information about tissue at risk of ischemic injury. Untreated patients with SCA have significantly lower SCTO2 than healthy controls that declines with age. Hydroxyurea is effective in preventing many SCA‐related complications, but the degree to which it preserves normal neurophysiology is unclear. We analyzed participants enrolled in the Therapeutic Response Evaluation and Adherence Trial (TREAT, NCT02286154), which enrolled participants initiating hydroxyurea using individualized dosing (new cohort) and those previously taking hydroxyurea (old cohort) and was designed to monitor the long‐term benefits of hydroxyurea. Cerebral oximetry was performed at baseline and annually. For the new cohort (median starting age = 12 months, n = 55), mean baseline SCTO2 was normal before starting hydroxyurea (mean 65%, 95% CI 58–72%) and significantly increased after 2 years (mean 72%, 95% CI 65–79%, p < .001). The SCTO2 for patients receiving long‐term hydroxyurea (median age = 9.6 years) was normal at study entry (mean 66%, 95% CI 58–74%) and remained stable across 2 years. Both cohorts had significantly higher SCTO2 than published data from predominantly untreated SCA patients. Cerebral oximetry is a non‐invasive method to assess cerebrovascular pathology that complements conventional imaging. Our results indicate that hydroxyurea suggests protection against neurophysiologic changes seen in untreated SCA.