bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Humedales construidos como alternativa de tratamiento de aguas residuales en zonas urbanas: una revisión
Authors: Pérez Yvelisse Antonia , García Cortés Daniel A. , Jauregui Haza Ulises J.
Published: April 2022

El tratamiento de las aguas residuales urbanas es un problema no resuelto. Las nuevas tecnologías, como los humedales construidos (HC), ayudan a conservar y proteger los cuerpos de aguas. En esta revisión se analizan los estudios publicados durante los últimos 10 años sobre los HCs como alternativa de tratamiento de las aguas residuales en zonas urbanas. La búsqueda sobre HCs se realizó para el período 2010-2020 en las bases de datos Scopus y Web of Science. Es de esperar un continuo aumento de la introducción de estos sistemas en los ambientes urbanos, por ser soluciones basadas en la naturaleza; de bajo costo; fáciles de diseñar, construir y explotar; que brindan servicios ecosistémicos y que son amigables con el medio ambiente y el entorno. Las áreas que requieren de investigaciones priorizadas para el desarrollo eficiente de los HCs son (1) la búsqueda de nuevas especies de plantas propias de cada zona climática; (2) el fortalecimiento de la sostenibilidad y la potenciación de diferentes servicios ecosistémicos; (3) la continuación del proceso de innovación de los diferentes diseños para aumentar la confiabilidad y el desempeño de estos sistemas; y (4) la integración con otros sistemas de tratamiento para aumentar las posibilidades de reúso del agua.
Immunohistochemical Expression of CDX2 in Gastroesophageal Junction Biopsies: An Emerging Marker for Early Intestinal Differentiation of Barrett’s Metaplasia
Authors: Adhikari Twisha , Monappa Vidya
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Histological diagnosis of Barrett’s oesophagus (BE) in mucosal biopsies is challenging and affected by multiple factors. Goblet Cells (GCs) are not distributed uniformly in BE and is dependent on sampling probabilities. Furthermore, GC Mimickers (GCM) are potential pitfalls in the diagnosis of Intestinal Metaplasia (IM). Alcian Blue (AB) stain has been extensively used in detection of GC’s although it has the limitation of low specificity with positive staining for GCM. Recently, CDX2 Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is reported to be highly sensitive and specific marker which has shown to identify early intestinal phenotype even in absence of diagnostic GCs and especially pertaining to conditions where characteristic morphological changes are not apparent. Aim: To study the histomorphology of non neoplastic and neoplastic lesions of the Gastroesophageal Junction (GEJ) in reflux patients and evaluate the diagnostic role of CDX2 IHC versus AB stain in detecting IM. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in Department of Pathology at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka, India, on 55 patients with clinical features of reflux and adequate records of GEJ biopsies, diagnosed over 6 years from January 2012 to August 2018. Clinical presentation, endoscopic findings and histomorphology (18 parameters) were recorded. AB stain and CDX2 (IHC) were performed and evaluated in all cases. A detailed histological evaluation was done for all cases and subsequently, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of CDX2 IHC to identify early intestinal differentiation was calculated. Results: Of 55 cases, 28 were BE, 19-Reflux oesophagitis (RE) and 8-adenocarcinoma. Heart burn and chest pain were the most common clinical presentations of BE. Endoscopy of BE predominantly showed hiatus hernia with tongue like projections of the gastric mucosa. Histologically, intraepithelial eosinophils and spongiosis were more common features in RE. Barrett’s oesophagus showed columnar epithelium with multilayering, presence of IM with GC (1-20/crypt) along with sub-squamous buried epithelium and splitting of muscularis mucosa. By IHC, as compared to AB; CDX2 IHC was more sensitive (100% vs 78.2%) and specific (96.5% vs 82.6%) for detecting an intestinal phenotype. The five cases (22%) of BE contained only GCM in the biopsy, were CDX2 negative but showed a false positivity for AB. In BE, CDX2 additionally highlighted positivity in non GC columnar cells which were AB negative. The CDX2 showed diffuse positivity in dysplasia with focal strong to absent expression in adenocarcinoma. Conclusion: The CDX2 efficiently differentiated between GC and pseudo GC. Its presence in the absence of AB in non GC columnar cells suggests that it effectively detects intestinal phenotypic features even before morphological features are evident.
Oral Spray – A Review on Promising Drug Delivery System for Oral Cavity
Authors: Parmar Chirag , Joshi Nidhi , Modi Prachi , Bhavsar Priyank , Desai Nishtha , Patel Adil
Published: April 2022

Aim: This review aims to compile information related to marketed oral spray preparation along with their formulation and clinical application.

Objective: The main objective of this overview is to study the marketed oral spray dosage form for treatment of different diseases and learn about its advantages over the other oral dosage forms e.g. tablet, capsule, patches etc.

Description: Oral spray with Mucoadhesive polymers forms small droplets that quickly adheres to the mucosal surface and let the drug permeate into the blood circulation easily. The oral mucosa has shown promising results for the systemic absorption of many drugs owing to the highly permeable nature of the mucosal membrane. Oral sprays are very fast, the most effective and easy way to get daily dose vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients ingredients. Due to this advantage oral sprays have emerged as an effective alternative for bypassing extensive first pass effect.

Conclusion: It has been a very well known fact that the oral route of administration is the most popular route of drug administration. However the drwabacks like extensive first pass metabolism and drug degradation in stomach makes this route not suitable for all drugs and thus an alternative oral drug delivery systems are necessary to explaoint benefits of oral route. Many researchers are working to develop oral spray formulations for drugs which need quick permeation followed by quick onset of action and also provide an effective alternative of conventional oral drug delivery systems.
Administration of Rice Input Subsidy Programme on Quality Life of Farming Communities in North B District, Unguja
Authors: Ramadhan Rajab Ali , Suleiman Shaaban Mwinchum
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the administration of rice input subsidy on the quality life of farmers among farming communities in North B, District, Unguja. Four objectives guided this study which included examining the correlation between rice farming subsidies and the quality of life, examining the impact of seeds subsidies and farmers’ quality life, determining the impact of fertilizers subsidies on farmers’ quality of life as well as to examine the impact of pesticides subsidies on farmers’ quality of life in North B District, Unguja. The study used a cross-sectional survey design where questionnaires were used to collect data from 87 rice farmers of North B, district Unguja through simple random sampling. The study reveals a moderate correlation between rice input subsidies and farmers’ quality life (r = 0.475, p < 0.01). Moreover, a standard multiple regression indicates that the independent variables rice input subsidies (fertilizers, seeds and pesticides) accounted for 25% of the variability in predicting quality life among farming communities in North B district, Unguja (R2 = 0.247). Primarily, pesticide subsidy, has a significant effect or impact on farmers’ quality life (β = 0.352, t = 2.183, p < 0.05). However, the results also indicate that two independent variables that are fertiliser subsidy (β = 0.050, t = 0.201, p > 0.05) and seeds subsidy (β = 0.119, t = 0.470, p > 0.05) do not have any significant impact on farmers’ quality life. With this result, the study recommends that the government support rice farmers by increasing the provision of more rice input subsidies such as fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds to rice farmers of Northern, B District of Unguja timely manner to improve their quality of life.
Comparative Evaluation of Anaesthetic Efficacy of Ropivacaine and Articaine with Epinephrine for Buccal Infiltration Anaesthesia in Maxilla Central Incisor and their Effect on Cardiovascular Parameters – A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Joshi Vishwesh Prashant , Rawtiya Manjusha , Attur Kailash , Patel Nikunj , Gurjar Pawan , Chitroda Bhargav
Published: April 2022

Aim: To compare the effectiveness, latency time and onset of pulpal anaesthesia with 0.5% plain ropivacaine and 4% articaine with epinephrine 1:100 000 and to determine their probable effect on cardiovascular parameters.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, NPDCH, Visnagar, Gujarat between January 1st 2022 and January 31st 2022.

Methodology: 20 patients (10 male, 10 females) age range of 18-36 years were inserted 1.8 mL of the anaesthetic solution for buccal infiltration anaesthesia of maxillary central incisors deprived of caries, restorations or signs of pulpitis. The latency time, onset of pulpal anaesthesia and duration of pulp anaesthesia were assessed with an electric pulp tester. Heart rate and blood pressure were measured before, Immediate and after the onset of pulpal anaesthesia of the solutions. Data was sent for statistical analysis.

Results: The efficacy of anaesthesia of central incisors was 100% for both anaesthetics. The comparison of latency time and onset of pulpal anaesthesia were statistically significant for ropivacaine and articaine. Mean duration was less in Articaine group (206.50 ± 9.34) than Ropivacaine group (318.30 ± 43.21). Ropivacaine caused significant increases in blood pressure and heart rate.

Conclusion: Ropivacaine (0.5%) achieved effective and long duration of pulp anaesthesia. Ropivacaine could be beneficial for long lasting operative procedures without the need for a vasoconstrictor.
High‐Temperature Stability Amorphous Ternary AlBN Dielectric Films on N++GaN
Authors: Liu Fengfeng , Li Yuxiong , Devaux Xavier , Lu Yuan , Luo Yi , Sui Zhanpeng , Cai Yong , Jiang Chunping
Published: April 2022

Dielectric films have played a vital role in the development of micro‐ and nanoelectronic devices over the past decades. However, the stability of current dielectrics under extreme high‐temperature conditions is still a major shortcoming to be overcome. Herein, the successful fabrication of high‐quality amorphous ternary AlBN dielectric films on n++GaN substrates by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) at room temperature (25 ± 2 °C) is reported. Systematic characterizations on the morphology, structure, chemical composition, and band offsets properties of the fabricated films reveal that both as‐deposited and 800 °C postdeposition annealing (PDA) thin films are amorphous and exhibit good physical and electrical properties. Large band offsets (>2.0 eV), high dielectric constants (>10), and low leakage currents are achieved in both cases. Furthermore, the leakage current density in the Au/AlBN/n++GaN junctions of 800 °C PDA thin films is reduced by approximately one order of magnitude compared with those of as‐deposited thin films. The demonstration of these excellent properties indicates that the amorphous AlBN dielectric thin films are promising candidates for integrated dielectric layers in electronic devices for harsh environment applications.
Dual Self‐Built Gating Boosts the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhu Xiaohui , Wang Chenyang , Wang Tingli , Lan Haihui , Ding Yu , Shi Hu , Liu Lisi , Shi Haiwen , Wang Luyang , Wang Huiliu , Ding Yiran , Fu Yingshuang , Zeng Mengqi , Fu Lei
Published: April 2022

Optimizing the intrinsic activity of active sites is an appealing strategy for accelerating the kinetics of the catalytic process. Here, a design principle, namely “dual self‐built gating”, is proposed to tailor the electronic structures of catalysts. Catalytic improvement is confirmed in a model catalyst with a ReS2–WS2/WS2 hybridized heterostructure. As demonstrated in experimental and theoretical results, the dual gating can bidirectionally guide electron transfer and redistribute at the interface, endowing the model catalyst with an electron‐rich region. The tailored electronic structures balance the adsorption of intermediates and the desorption of hydrogen synergistically to enhance the reaction kinetics for the hydrogen evolution reaction. Interestingly, the effect of dual gating can be easily amplified by the electric field. The overpotential and Tafel slope (49 mV, 35 mV dec−1) obtained under the electric field for ReS2–WS2/WS2 catalyst with the dual self‐built gating effect are far below than those (210 mV, 116 mV dec−1) of the pure WS2 catalyst, which exhibits nearly four times improvement. The concept of dual gating can be applied to more systems, offering a new guideline for designing advanced electrocatalysts.
Novel Ag‐Mesh Transparent Hybrid Electrodes for Highly Efficient and Mechanically Stable Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ji Hong , Huang Jinhua , Zhang Wenxiao , Chen Xiaomei , Lu Yuehui , Ding Chuanfan , Fang Junfeng , Song Weijie , Ai Ling
Published: April 2022

Metal‐mesh transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs)‐based flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs) have been intensively explored to improve the efficiency and stability of the devices, whereas undesired metal‐induced decomposition of perovskite during film formation process could undermine the performance and stability of device. In this work, the authors construct a novel flexible hybrid electrode combining silver (Ag) mesh‐embedded poly(ethylene terephthalate) film (PET/Ag‐mesh) with a thin indium tin oxide (ITO) layer, named PET/Ag‐mesh/ITO, which exhibits outstanding photoelectric properties, chemical stability, and mechanical durability. They introduce the thin ITO film as a barrier layer to protect perovskite from the metal‐induced degradation. In comparison, the PET/Ag‐mesh/ITO based FPSCs achieve an optimized power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.10%, which is among the highest reported values for metal‐mesh based FPSCs to date. Owing to the excellent properties of PET/Ag‐mesh/ITO, the corresponding FPSCs demonstrate extraordinary mechanical and thermal stability, which is comparable to that of their rigid ITO‐based counterparts.
Multimodal Single‐Cell Analyses Outline the Immune Microenvironment and Therapeutic Effectors of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome
Authors: Su Fei , Zhang Wei , Meng Lingfeng , Zhang Wei , Liu Xiaodong , Liu Xiaorui , Chen Meng , Zhang Yaoguang , Xiao Fei
Published: April 2022

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) has a significant impact on quality of life, but the etiopathogenesis remains largely unknown. The bladder microenvironment of patients with IC/BPS to obtain biological evidence supporting diagnosis and novel therapy is systematically characterized. Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) and image mass cytometry (IMC) are applied to bladder biopsies of the IC/BPS cohort. A total of 42 distinct cell clusters are identified from different groups. The increased hyperactivated Th1‐biased response, but not Th2‐biased response, and decreased immunosuppressive Treg are elucidated in the bladder microenvironment of non‐Hunner‐type IC (NHIC)/Hunner‐type IC (HIC). M2/M2‐like macrophage extends in the HIC and M1‐like macrophage extends in NHIC, all of which secrete a range of chemokines with different pattern. The pro‐inflammatory mediators, TNF‐α, produced by tissue‐resident macrophages and IL6, by the inflammatory fibroblasts are identified as key mediators of IC/BPS pathogenesis. Additionally, a regulatory network between different cell types is observed as a shift from structural cell communication in unaffected normal bladder to a Macrophage‐Endothelial‐dominated interactome in NHIC/HIC. The results demonstrate the high heterogeneity in NHIC/HIC, and provide an essential resource for diagnosis, and treatment of IC/BPS in the future by highlighting the importance of the microenvironment of bladder mucosa.
Strong Proton‐Electron Coupling in π‐Planar Metal Complex with Redox‐Active Ligands
Authors: Huang Pingping , Yoshida Yukihiro , Nakano Yoshiaki , Yamochi Hideki , Hayashi Mikihiro , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET) of metal complexes has been widely studied, especially in biochemistry and catalytic chemistry. Although metal complexes bearing redox‐active ligands play a part in these research areas, those with π‐planar structure remain entirely unexplored, which are vital for future development of iono‐electronics. Here, proton‐electron coupling of a π‐planar nickel complex bearing redox‐active N,S‐ligands, Ni(itsq)2, was investigated by combining experimental and theoretical approaches. Strong proton‐electron coupling was manifested in a large potential shift, which is twice greater than that of a typical PCET‐type π‐planar metal complex with redox‐inactive ligands, [Ni(dcpdt)2]2−. Theoretical calculations affirmed that the stabilization of frontier orbitals by protonation is greater in Ni(itsq)2 than that in [Ni(dcpdt)2]2−. These results indicate that π‐planar metal complexes with redox‐active ligands are promising for developing novel PCET‐type materials.
A proteomics approach to decipher a sticky CHO situation
Authors: Kumar Swetha , Kumar Amit , Huhn Steven , DeVine Lauren , Cole Robert , Du Zhimei , Betenbaugh Michael
Published: April 2022

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells serve as protein therapeutics workhorses, so it is useful to understand what intrinsic properties make certain host cell lines and clones preferable for scale up and production of target proteins. In this study, two CHO host cell lines (H1, H2), and their respective clones were evaluated using comparative TMT‐proteomics. The clones obtained from host H1 showed increased productivity (6.8 times higher) in comparison to clones from host H2. Based on fold‐change analyses, we observed differential regulation in pathways including cell adhesion, aggregation, and cellular metabolism among others. In particular, the cellular adhesion pathway was downregulated in H1, in which podoplanin, an antiadhesion molecule, was upregulated the most in host H1 and associated clones. Phenotypically, these cells were less likely to aggregate and adhere to surfaces. In addition, enzymes involved in cellular metabolism such as isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and mitochondrial‐d‐lactate dehydrogenase (
d‐LDHm) were also found to be differentially regulated. IDH plays a key role in TCA cycle and isocitrate‐alpha‐ketoglutarate cycle while
d‐LDHm aids in the elimination of toxic metabolite methylglyoxal, involved in protein degradation. These findings will enhance our efforts towards understanding why certain CHO cell lines exhibit enhanced performance and perhaps provide future cell engineering targets.
Morphologically favorable mutant of Trichoderma reesei for low viscosity cellulase production
Authors: Adsul Mukund G. , Dixit Pooja , Saini Jitendra K. , Gupta Ravi P. , Ramakumar Sankara Sri Venkata , Mathur Anshu S.
Published: April 2022

Metabolite production by filamentous fungi hampered because of high viscosity generated during growth. Low viscosity fermentation by mold is one of the preferred ways of large scale enzymes production. Cellulolytic enzymes play a key role during the process of lignocellulosic biomass conversion. In this study, a mutant RC‐23‐1 was isolated through mutagenesis (diethyl sulfate followed by UV) of Trichoderma reesei RUT‐C30. RCRC‐23‐1 not only gave higher cellulase production but also generated lower viscosity during enzyme production. Viscosity of mutant growth was more than three times lower than parent strain. RC‐23‐1 shows unique, yeast‐like colony morphology on solid media and small pellet‐like growth in liquid media. This mutant did not spread like mold on solid media. This mutant produces cellulases constitutively when grown in sugars. Using only glucose, the cellulase production was 4.1 FPU/ml. Among polysaccharides (avicel, xylan, and pectin), avicel gave maximum of 6.2 FPU/ml and pretreated biomass (rice straw, wheat straw and sugarcane bagasse) produced 5.1–5.8 FPU/ml. At 7 L scale reactor, fed‐batch process was designed for cellulase production using different carbon and nitrogen sources. Maximum yield of cellulases was 182 FPU/g of lactose consumed was observed in fed‐batch process. The produced enzyme used for hydrolysis of acid pretreated rice straw (20% solid loading) and maximum of 60% glucan conversion was observed. RC‐23‐1 mutant is good candidate for large scale cellulase production and could be a model strain to study mold to yeast‐like transformation.
RETRACTED: Neurological manifestations of COVID‐19: A potential gate to the determinants of a poor prognosis
Authors: Ahmed A. Ibrahim Etedal , Isam Farah Hassan Ramah , Abbasher Hussien Mohamed Ahmed Khabab , Taha Salah Elmuntasir , Eltahier Abdalla Omer Mohammed , S. Haroun Mazin
Published: April 2022

Background

Several investigations were carried out during the pandemic, demonstrating a number of neurological symptoms linked to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection.

Objectives

The goal of this review is to discuss COVID‐19 disease's neurological signs and squeals.

Methodology

From December 2019 to May 2020, data were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, as well as a manual search using Google Scholar. COVID‐19, neurological symptoms, cranial nerves, motor system were among the key phrases utilized in the search.

Results

The intensity of respiratory involvement increases the likelihood of neurological symptoms and consequences. According to some research, it might range from 34% to 80%. The central and peripheral neural systems are both affected, resulting in cranial nerve palsies and limb paralysis.

Conclusion

COVID‐19 neurologic complications are key drivers of patient severity and mortality. Headache, convulsions, mental and psychic disorders, delirium, and insomnia are just some of the symptoms that the virus can cause. The olfactory nerve is the most commonly damaged cranial nerve, resulting in anosmia. Stroke (mostly infarction), encephalitis, meningitis, Guillain–Barre syndrome, relapse of multiple sclerosis, and transverse myelitis are all symptoms and squeals.
Challenges to increasing visibility and support for children in Bangladesh's informal ready‐made garment factories
Authors: Chanani Sheila , Spector Hope , Restrepo Alvarez Savitri , Chowdhury Nasir , Ma Patrick
Published: April 2022

Worker voice tools can support multinational companies to monitor social compliance within complex multi‐tier apparel supply chains. This study presents findings from an adaptation of a worker voice tool that contacted 11,555 workers in two informal ‘Ready‐made Garment’ (RMG) production hubs in Bangladesh. Results indicate a high level of child labour, particularly among boys, and present characteristics of exploitative working conditions. The authors also share challenges in facilitating support services for identified child labourers. This study informs multi‐sectoral strategies for business adherence to sustainable supply chain management, and government commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8 for Decent Work and Economic Growth.
Digital finance and sustainable development: Evidence from environmental inequality in China
Authors: Li Guoxiang , Zhang Rong , Feng Suling , Wang Yuqing
Published: April 2022

Achieving environmental equity is important for ensuring resource utilization efficiency and realizing sustainable development. Using panel data of 286 cities in China from 2011 to 2018, this paper analyzes whether financial support in the form of digital finance can mitigate environmental inequality. The findings indicate that (1) digital finance has a significant mitigating effect on environmental inequality. Digital finance development has a stronger industrial pollution emission reduction effect on high‐polluting regions than on low‐polluting regions and can reduce the environmental pollution gap between regions. The results of robustness tests such as an endogeneity test support this finding. (2) Digital finance development can have a stronger mitigating effect on environmental inequality in regions with a stronger local government governance capacity and environmental preferences. Digital finance can be a more significant inhibitor of environmental inequality in areas where industries transfer out due to their stronger needs for industrial transformation and finance. (3) Residential income and green technology innovation are important factors affecting industrial pollution emissions and reductions. Digital finance development can narrow the income gap between regions and promote the convergence of green technology innovation capacity, in turn alleviating environmental inequality. In the future, while continuing to promote the development of digital finance, it is necessary to improve the governance capacity of local governments, to increase the efficiency of resource utilization in places where industrial transfer is undertaken and to strengthen the role of financial support in industrial pollution control.
Comparison of quality of life and cosmetic result between open and transaxillary endoscopic thyroid lobectomy for papillary thyroid microcarcinoma survivors: A single‐center prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Tingting , Zhang Zhicheng , Chen Weisheng , Yu Shitong , Sun Baihui , Deng Xiangqian , Ge Junna , Wei Zhigang , Lei Shangtong , Li Guoxin
Published: April 2022

Background

Transaxillary endoscopic thyroidectomy has been introduced to achieve better cosmetic outcomes. However, the benefits of this technology on the patients’ health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) remain unclear. We aimed to investigate whether transaxillary endoscopic lobectomy is comparable to conventional open lobectomy in terms of QOL and cosmetic results in order to provide more evidence for establishing appropriate clinical decisions.

Methods

Between August 2019 and May 2020, transaxillary endoscopic lobectomy and conventional open lobectomy were performed in 73 and 99 patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma, respectively. HRQoL was assessed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery using the Thyroid Cancer‐Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire. The cosmetic outcomes were assessed 12 months after surgery using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS).

Results

No significant difference was observed in the surgical results between the two groups. However, the data showed that the average operative time and postoperative hospital stay of the transaxillary group were longer than those of the open group (p < 0.001). Both groups showed similar changes in the QOL scores over time. However, the transaxillary group had fewer complaints of the throat or oral problems at 1 month postoperatively than the open group (p < 0.001). During the follow‐up, the cosmetic results of scars in the transaxillary group were significantly better than those in the open group (p < 0.05). Patients who underwent transaxillary endoscopic lobectomy had higher overall satisfaction with their scar appearance, determined using POSAS, at 12 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

The current findings suggest that transaxillary endoscopic lobectomy may offer better cosmetic and HRQoL outcomes.
How political identity and attitudinal spillover matter for consumption of place: Evidence from winter migrants in the United States
Authors: Felix Reto , Sheng Xiaojing , Ngo Ai Nhan
Published: April 2022

Understanding winter migration is relevant for marketing managers and consumer researchers, yet research on this important phenomenon remains scarce. Extending literatures on attitude formation and attitudinal spillover, political identity, and consumption of place, the current research shows that more conservative winter migrants from the United States score higher on consumer animosity and lower on consumer affinity toward Mexico. Affinity toward Mexico, but not animosity, is associated with sense of place and psychological ownership toward a popular winter migration destination, the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) in the United States, through attitudinal spillover. Furthermore, psychological ownership toward the RGV is associated with managerially relevant outcome variables, including revisit intention, word‐of‐mouth, and relocation intention. Tests for alternative explanations (ethnocentrism and xenocentrism) and unobserved heterogeneity are conducted, and the results are discussed in light of the extant literature.
Exploring the Reaction Mechanism of Heterobimetallic Nickel‐Alkali Catalysts for Ethylene Polymerization: Secondary‐Metal‐Ligand Cooperative Catalysis
Authors: Apilardmongkol Pavee , Ratanasak Manussada , Hasegawa Jun‐ya , Parasuk Vudhichai
Published: April 2022

In this work, we explored the reaction mechanism of heterobimetallic nickel phenoxyphosphine polyethylene glycol (Ni‐PEG) with alkali metals (M+=Li+, Na+, K+, and Cs+) catalysts for ethylene polymerization using the DFT calculations. The activation energy of the necessary step shows the following trend, Li+<Na+<K+<Cs+, which corresponds to experimentally observed activities. Roles of secondary metals (M+) in Ni‐PEG catalysts were clarified. Our findings suggest that the active catalyst should contain strong cooperative metal‐metal/metal‐ligand interactions and less positive charge on M+ cation. Besides, the key role of M+ is to control the PEG group which stabilizes the catalyst structure. In addition, we found two key factors (shorter M‐O1 and M‐OPEG distances) for designing new catalysts from the pre‐reaction state of the Ni‐PEG(M+) catalysts. Finally, Ni‐PEG(M2+) catalysts with Be2+, Mg2+, Co2+, and Zn2+ were suggested for candidates of highly active catalysts for ethylene polymerization.
One‐dimensional PtFe hollow nanochains for the efficient oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Rao Peng , Luo Junming , Li Jing , Huang Wei , Sun Wei , Chen Qi , Jia Chunman , Liu Zhongxin , Deng Peilin , Shen Yijun , Tian Xinlong
Published: April 2022

Integration of electronic and strain effects with tailored structures is significant to tuning the electrocatalytic activity and stability of the electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this study, one‐dimensional PtFe hollow nanochains are synthesized by a facile and effective method, which exhibit a highly open and porous structure. The modulated electronic and strain effects of Pt atoms are verified by extensive structural characterizations, and the mass and specific activities of the prepared catalyst are roughly 7.45 and 12.44 times higher than those of the commercial Pt/C catalyst, respectively. Remarkably, the catalyst demonstrates robust performance with negligible activity decay after an accelerated durability test for 30,000 cycles. The high activity of the catalyst is probably due to the optimized absorption affinity of Pt‐O accelerating the reaction kinetics induced by the cooperation of Fe atoms as well as the unique hollow and curved structures. This study provides new insights into the rational design of high‐performance ORR catalysts with considerable durability.
Identifying the Molecular Origins of Green BN‐TADF Material Degradation and Device Stability via in situ Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Xue Wangjuan , Yan Hao , He Yaowu , Wu Lijie , Zhang Xinkang , Wu Yuting , Xu Jinhao , He Junpeng , Yan Chaoyi , Meng Hong
Published: April 2022

There is little investigation into the impact of molecular conformation on device efficiency and degradation of boron‐nitrogen thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters (BN‐TADF). Herein, three highly‐efficient green BN‐TADF emitters have been designed to unveil the impact of peripheral phenyl groups on device efficiencies and lifetimes. Compared to BN‐PhOH with the lowest EQEmaxof 19 %, BN‐PhOCH3and BN‐PhN(CH3)2have achieved strongly enhanced EQEmaxof 25.6 % and 24.1 %, respectively. Importantly, the device lifetimes (LT50) are dramatically improved from 1.7 h of BN‐PhOH to 4.4 h of BN‐PhOCH3and 7.7 h of BN‐PhN(CH3)2without encapsulation. According to in situ Raman spectroscopy and simulations, BN‐PhN(CH3)2of less conformation change after aging exhibits the best photostability. It is proposed that the torsion angle change between the BN core and the peripheral phenyl group results in BN‐TADF degradation. This knowledge means precisely tuning peripheral groups of BN‐TADF can achieve both higher device efficiencies and longer lifetimes.
Host‐Guest Assemblies of Cyanostilbenes and Cucurbit[8]uril: Luminescence Modulation, Photoreactivity Control and Energy Transfer Studies
Authors: Kanti Bhaumik Shubhra , Kumar Sanat , Banerjee Supratim
Published: April 2022

A series of di‐cationic cyanostilbene derivatives possessing peripheral alkyl chains of variable lengths underwent host‐guest complexation withCB[8]in aqueous media to produce higher order nano‐ and micro‐structures of various morphologies and exhibited multi‐color luminescence. Their complexation behavior was modulated by varying the ionic strength of the medium. The photoreactivity of the cyanostilbene chromophores in theCB[8]assemblies was found to be dependent on the length of the alkyl segment. Furthermore, theCB[8]assemblies acted as artificial light harvesting systems exhibiting multicolor luminescence ranging from green to pinkish red through energy transfer to different acceptor dyes.
In Situ Ellipsometry Measurements on the Halide Phase Segregation of Mixed Halide Lead Perovskites**
Authors: Bernhardt Annik , Ambagaspitiya Tharushi D. , Kordesch Martin E. , Cimatu Katherine Leslee A. , Chen Jixin
Published: April 2022

Methylammonium lead iodide bromides MAPb(BrxI1‐x)3 are a class of mixed halide lead perovskites, materials that offer high‐power conversion efficiencies and bandgap tunability. For these reasons, they are a promising absorber material for future solar cells, although their use is still limited due to several factors. The reversible phase segregation under even low light intensities is one of them, lowering the effective bandgap due to local segregation into iodide‐rich and bromide‐rich phases. While several studies have been done to illuminate the mechanism and suppression of phase segregation, challenges remain to understand its kinetics. We obtained dynamic ellipsometric measurements from x=0.5 mixed halide lead perovskite thin films protected by a polystyrene layer under green laser light with a power density of ∼11 W/cm2. Time constants between 1.7(±0.7)×10−3 s−1 for the segregation and 1.5(±0.6)×10−4 s−1 for recovery were calculated. The phase segregation rate constants are surprisingly two orders of magnitude slower than and the recovery rate is consistent with those measured using photoluminescence methods under similar conditions. These results confirm a concern in the literature about the complexity in the phase separation kinetics measured from photoluminescence. We expect ellipsometry to serve as a complementary technique to other spectroscopies in studying mixed‐halide lead perovskites phase segregation in the future.
Energy Transfer Processes in the Excited States of an {[Ir(N C)2(N N)]+‐Rhodamine} Dyad: An Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Kitchenkov Ilya S. , Melnikov Alexei S. , Serdobintsev Pavel S. , Khodorkovskii Mikhail A. , Pavlovskii Vladimir V. , Porsev Vitaly V. , Tunik Sergey P.
Published: April 2022

Herein we report the synthesis, characterization, photophysical and theoretical study of the luminescent dyad Ir‐RhB containing two emissive centers: The first fluorescent (RhB=rhodamine B) and the second phosphorescent (Ir=orthometalated iridium complex), bound with an aliphatic bridge. These nearly independent chromophores have triplet excited states which are very close in terms of energy, allowing for reversible energy transfer between them. The observed transient absorption spectra and their time dependent variations were interpreted in terms of a relatively simple kinetic model, where selective excitation of the iridium‐based chromophore affords the corresponding emissive triplet state, followed by its equilibration with the rhodamine based triplet state and simultaneous emissive relaxation to the dyad ground state. This model allows for analytical solution to give key characteristics of the dyad excited‐state dynamics, including the energy gap between these triplets (ΔE=0.017 eV) and the rate constant of energy transfer (k(Ir‐RhB)=6.0 ⋅ 108 s−1). These data were also verified by quantum chemical DFT and TD‐DFT calculations.
Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell–Based in vitro Model for Neurotoxicity Testing
Authors: Coccini Teresa , Spinillo Arsenio , Roccio Marianna , Lenta Elisa , Valsecchi Chiara , De Simone Uliana
Published: April 2022

Neurotoxicity (NT) testing for regulatory purposes is based on in vivo animal testing. There is general consensus, however, about the need for the development of alternative methodologies to allow researchers to more rapidly and cost effectively screen large numbers of chemicals for their potential to cause NT, or to investigate their mode of action. In vitro assays are considered an important source of information for making regulatory decisions, and human cell–based systems are recommended as one of the most relevant models in toxicity testing, to reduce uncertainty in the extrapolation of results from animal‐based models. Human neuronal models range from various neuroblastoma cell lines to stem cell–derived systems, including those derived from mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSC). hMSCs exhibit numerous advantages, including the fact that they can be obtained in high yield from healthy human adult tissues, can be cultured with a minimal laboratory setup and without genetic manipulations, are able of continuous and repeated self‐renewal, are nontumorigenic, and can form large populations of stably differentiated cells representative of different tissues, including neuronal cells. hMSCs derived from human umbilical cord (hUC) in particular possess several prominent advantages, including a painless, non‐invasive, and ethically acceptable collection procedure, simple and convenient preparation, and high proliferation capacity. In addition, hMSCs can be efficiently differentiated into neuron‐like cells (hNLCs), which can then be used for the assessment of neuronal toxicity of potential neurotoxic compounds in humans. Here, we describe a step‐by‐step procedure to use hMSCs from the umbilical cord for in vitro neurotoxicity testing. First, we describe how to isolate, amplify, and store hMSCs derived from the umbilical cord. We then outline the steps to transdifferentiate these cells into hNLCs, and then use the hNLCs for neurotoxicity testing by employing multiple common cytotoxicity assays after treatment with test compounds. The approach follows the most updated guidance on using human cell–based systems. These protocols will allow investigators to implement an alternative system for obtaining primary NLCs of human origin, and support advancement in neurotoxicity research. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation and maintenance of human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSCs) obtained from the umbilical cord lining membrane

Basic Protocol 2: Transdifferentiation of hMSCs into neuron‐like cells (hNLCs) and basic neurotoxicity assessment
Validation and performance of a multiplex serology assay to quantify antibody responses following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or vaccination
Authors: Wilkins Deidre , Aksyuk Anastasia A , Ruzin Alexey , Tuffy Kevin M , Green Tina , Greway Rebecca , Fikes Brittany , Bonhomme Cyrille J , Esser Mark T , Kelly Elizabeth J
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Robust, quantitative serology assays are required to accurately measure antibody levels following vaccination and natural infection. We present validation of a quantitative, multiplex, SARS‐CoV‐2, electrochemiluminescent (ECL) serology assay; show correlation with two established SARS‐CoV‐2 immunoassays; and present calibration results for two SARS‐CoV‐2 reference standards.

Methods

Precision, dilutional linearity, ruggedness, analytical sensitivity and specificity were evaluated. Clinical sensitivity and specificity were assessed using serum from prepandemic and SARS‐CoV‐2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐positive patient samples. Assay concordance to the established Roche Elecsys® Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 immunoassay and a live‐virus microneutralisation (MN) assay was evaluated.

Results

Standard curves demonstrated the assay can quantify SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody levels over a broad range. Assay precision (10.2−15.1% variability), dilutional linearity (≤ 1.16‐fold bias per 10‐fold increase in dilution), ruggedness (0.89−1.18 overall fold difference), relative accuracy (107−118%) and robust selectivity (102−104%) were demonstrated. Analytical sensitivity was 7, 13 and 7 arbitrary units mL−1 for SARS‐CoV‐2 spike (S), receptor‐binding domain (RBD) and nucleocapsid (N) antigens, respectively. For all antigens, analytical specificity was > 90% and clinical specificity was 99.0%. Clinical sensitivities for S, RBD and N antigens were 100%, 98.8% and 84.9%, respectively. Comparison with the Elecsys® immunoassay showed ≥ 87.7% agreement and linear correlation (Pearson r of 0.85, P < 0.0001) relative to the MN assay. Conversion factors for the WHO International Standard and Meso Scale Discovery® Reference Standard are presented.

Conclusions

The multiplex SARS‐CoV‐2 ECL serology assay is suitable for efficient, reproducible measurement of antibodies to SARS‐CoV‐2 antigens in human sera, supporting its use in clinical trials and sero‐epidemiology studies.
Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside induces pyroptosis by activating caspase‐1 to cleave GSDMD in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Chen Tuo , Wang Zhen , Zhong Junbo , Zhang Lijun , Zhang Haopeng , Zhang Dayong , Xu Xiaofeng , Zhong Xianfei , Wang Jing , Li Hai
Published: April 2022

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is the main component of lignans with various biological activities, including anticancer activity. However, whether SDG has obvious anticancer effects on colorectal cancer (CRC) is unclear. Pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death, has received increasing attention in cancer‐related research. In this study, we aimed to test the anticancer properties and relatecd functional mechanisms of SDG. we found that SDG not only inhibited the cell viability of HCT116 cells, but also induced HCT116 cells to swell with apparent large bubbles, which are typical signs of pyroptosis. Furthermore, SDG induced cell pyroptosis by enhancing cleavage of the N‐terminal fragment of gasdermin D (GSDMD) in CRC cells, accompanied by increased caspase‐1 cleavage. Consistent with this, SDG‐induced GSDMD‐N‐terminal fragment cleavage and pyroptosis were reduced by siRNA‐mediated silencing of caspase‐1 or treatment with the specific caspase‐1 inhibitor VX‐765 treatment, suggesting that active caspase‐1 further induces pyroptosis. A mechanistic study showed that SDG induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and inhibits phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) phosphorylation and increases pyroptosis, while increasing GSDMD and caspase‐1 cleavage and enhancing expression of BCL2‐associated X (BAX), which could be rescued by the ROS scavenger (NAC), suggesting that SDG‐induced GSDME‐dependent pyroptosis is related to the ROS/PI3K/AKT/BAX‐mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. In vivo results showed that SDG significantly inhibited tumor growth and induced pyroptosis in the HCT116‐CRC nude mouse model. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the anticancer activity of SDG in CRC is associated with the induction of GSDMD‐dependent pyroptosis by SDG through the generation of ROS/P13K/AKT/BAK‐mitochondrail apoptosis pathway, providing insights into SDG in its potential new application in cancer treatment.
Changes in white oak (Quercus alba) phytochemistry in response to periodical cicadas: Before, during, and after an emergence
Authors: Perkovich Cynthia , Ward David
Published: April 2022

Periodical cicadas have mass emergences once every 13 or 17 years. Plants may need to upregulate defense production in response to an emergence. Defense production is energetically expensive, so plants may downregulate their production after periodical cicada populations dissipate. We examined the defensive responses in leaves, branches, and roots of a common host, white oak (Quercus alba), prior to, during, and after a 17‐year periodical cicada (Magicicadaspp.) emergence in western Pennsylvania, United States. During the emergence, total tannins and condensed tannins increased in foliar tissue, while simultaneously decreasing in root tissue compared to the prior and subsequent years. Non‐structural carbohydrates were low prior to the mass emergence but were re‐allocated to belowground storage during the emergence year and dropped thereafter. In the year after the emergence, there was a relaxation of foliar defenses, and root defenses returned to pre‐emergence concentrations. We also tested for differences in damaged and undamaged branches on the same tree during (2019) and the year after the emergence (2020). Both damaged and undamaged branches had significantly greater chemical defenses (polyphenols, total tannins, and condensed tannins) during the emergence than in the following year when there was no emergence. We propose that re‐allocation of resources may help maximize oak tree fitness by moving resources away from areas that are not in immediate threat to areas that are under immediate threat. Changes in aboveground and belowground phytochemistry in response to periodical cicada mass emergences may help us better understand which resource re‐allocation strategies are used by plants to minimize the effects of insect emergencies.
Transition Metal Complexes of NHC Ligands Functionalized with the Cationic (η5‐Cyclopentadienyl)(η6‐phenyl)iron(II) Motif
Authors: Malchau Christian , Fries Daniela V. , Mees Yannick , Jakobs Marisa F. , Sun Yu , Becker Sabine , Niedner‐Schatteburg Gereon , Thiel Werner R.
Published: April 2022

Starting from [(η5‐cyclopentadienyl)(η6‐phenyl)iron(II)]imidazole, dicationic imidazolium salts were prepared by N‐alkylation. Reaction of these compounds with basic metal precursors such as mesityl copper(I) or palladium(II) acetate led to mono respectively dicationic transition metal NHC complexes (NHC=N‐heterocyclic carbene). Transmetalation using the copper(I) complexes opened up the access to NHC gold(I) compounds. PEPPSI‐type NHC complexes of palladium(II) and platinum(II) were prepared by offering a neutral pyridine ligand to the transition metal center. A rhodium(I) NHC complex was accessible by deprotonation of the dicationic imidazolium precursor and subsequent treatment with [(COD)Rh(μ2‐Cl)]2 (COD=1,5‐cyclooctadiene). The new NHC complexes were investigated by means of NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry as well as single crystal X‐ray structure analysis. Both, the palladium(II) containing PEPPSI‐type and the gold(I) complex, were investigated for their catalytic properties in typical model reactions such as cyclization reactions, Suzuki coupling and cyanation. In addition, a selenium adduct was synthesized in order to study the electronic properties of the underlying ligand backbone. Based on the chemical shift in the 77Se NMR spectrum, it is evident that these NHC ligands possess rather poor π‐acidity.