bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transition‐Metal Phosphide/Sulfide Nanocomposites for Effective Electrochemical Non‐Enzymatic Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Wang Caifu , Zhang Zhonghai
Published: July 2020

In this work, we clearly demonstrate the use of a transition‐metal phosphide/sulfide nanocomposite to set up an electrochemical reduction analysis platform for the sensitive and selective non‐enzymatic detection of H2O2. With the help of a macroporous nickel foam (NF) as the substrate, the noble‐metal‐free electrocatalyst nanocomposites of Ni3P and Ni3S2 were directly synthesized in one step on the surface of the NF. The Ni3P‐Ni3S2/NF based electrochemical sensors present excellent electrocatalytic activity for H2O2 reduction with a detection limit of approximately 0.3 μM and a large detection range, which guarantees the possibility of sensitive and reliable detection of H2O2.
Genetic spider monkey‐based routing protocol to increase the lifetime of the network and energy management in WSN
Authors: Soundaram Jothi , Arumugam Chandrasekar
Published: July 2020

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) include large distributed nodes in the sensing field. However, the sensor nodes may die due to energy deficiency as they are situated in a hostile environment. Therefore, an energy‐efficient WSN routing protocol is necessary in order to better accommodate the various environmental conditions. In this paper, we have proposed a new Energy‐Efficient Genetic Spider Monkey‐based Routing Protocol (EGSMRP) to improve the stability and lifetime of sensor nodes. The operation of EGSMRP is classified into two stages: (i) setup phase and (ii) steady‐state phase. In the setup phase, GSMO‐based cluster head selection procedure is done. In this phase, the base station utilizes the GSMO algorithm as a device to generate energy‐efficient clusters. Followed with this, the steady‐state phase solves the load balancing issue by utilizing the intracluster data broadcast and dual‐hop intercluster broadcasting algorithm. Thereby, the proposed EGSMRP protocol has shown the energy‐based opportunistic broadcasting with reduced control overhead. Simulation is performed in various conditions to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed EGSMRP protocol using different metrics such as throughput, control overhead, energy consumption, end‐to‐end delay, and network lifetime. From the simulation results, it was evident that EGSMRP has achieved a higher performance compared to other traditional approaches such as EBAR, MCTRP, IEEMARP, HMCEER, and EFTETRP.
Using primary literature on SARS‐CoV‐2 to promote student learning about evolution
Authors: Hsu Jeremy L.
Published: July 2020

The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 has caused widespread deaths, illnesses, and societal disruption. I describe here how I pivoted a discussion‐based senior biology capstone course to include a multiweek module surrounding one primary literature paper on the evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2 and the subsequent scientific discourse about the paper. Using a gradual reveal of the paper following the CREATE method (consider, read, elucidate, and think of the next experiment), I challenged students to learn new evolutionary principles and critically analyze the data surrounding the evolution and transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 presented in the paper. I also provide general advice for implementing this module in future courses.
Thermal biology and growth of bison (Bison bison) along the Great Plains: examining four theories of endotherm body size
Authors: Martin Jeff M. , Barboza Perry S.
Published: July 2020

Body size of bison (Bison bison) declines with rising global temperature across the fossil record and rising annual temperatures across the Great Plains, but what are the underlying drivers? Body size depends on growth, which depends on maximizing net energy and nutrient flows for the production of tissues at seasonal scales across the range of the species. We measured thermoregulation costs of body surface temperature (°C) and heat exchanges (W and W/m2) of 350 adult and 345 adolescentBisonfrom 19 herds in summer and winter along the Great Plains from Saskatchewan (52° N) to Texas (30° N). At the smallest scale, daily body surface temperature increased with solar radiation and decreased with relative humidity and wind speed, which is consistent with Kooijman’s dynamic energy budget theory. Total surface heat transfer (W) increased with body mass (kg) at an exponent of 0.63 ± 0.03, which is consistent with Schmidt‐Nielsen’s principle of surface‐area‐to‐volume ratios (b = 0.67). On an annual scale, growth (kg/yr) of adolescentBisondecreased with increasing total surface heat transfer (W) during summer, which supports Speakman and Król’s heat dissipation limit theory. On the largest scale, heat flux was weakly related to latitude in summer and winter for adolescentBison, which provides support for Bergmann’s rule and suggests a role for local primary production along the Great Plains. Cooler summers are more optimal forBisongrowth because of reduced heat loads during the growing season. Rising temperatures are likely to constrain body size and productivity ofBisonand other large endotherms in North America.
A Highly Ordered Hydrophilic–Hydrophobic Janus Bi‐Functional Layer with Ultralow Pt Loading and Fast Gas/Water Transport for Fuel Cells
Authors: Meng Xiantao , Deng Xiang , Zhou Liusheng , Hu Bin , Tan Wenyi , Zhou Wei , Liu Meilin , Shao Zongping
Published: July 2020

One of the critical challenges that limit broad commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) is to reduce the usage of Pt while maintaining high power output and sufficient durability. Herein, a novel bi‐functional layer consisting of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) and nanoparticles of Pt‐Co catalysts (Pt‐Co/VACNTs) is reported for high‐performance PEMFCs. Readily prepared by a two‐step process, the Pt‐Co/VACNTs layer with a hydrophilic catalyst‐loaded side and a hydrophobic gas diffusion side enables a PTFE‐free electrode structure with fully exposed catalyst active sites and superior gas–water diffusion capability. When tested in a PEMFC, the bi‐functional Pt‐Co/VACNTs layer with ultralow Pt loading (~65 μgcathode cm−2) demonstrates a power density of 19.5 kW gPt cathode−1 at 0.6 V, more than seven times that of a cell with commercial Pt/C catalyst (2.7 kW gPt cathode−1 at 0.6 V) at a loading of 400 μgcathode cm−2 tested under similar conditions. This remarkable design of VACNTs‐based catalyst with dual functionalities enables much lower Pt loading, faster mass transport, and higher electrochemical performance and stability. Further, the preparation procedure can be easily scaled up for low‐cost fabrication and commercialization.
Cross‐presentation of dead‐cell‐associated antigens by DNGR‐1+ dendritic cells contributes to chronic allograft rejection in mice
Authors: Balam Saidou , Kesselring Rebecca , Eggenhofer Elke , Blaimer Stephanie , Evert Katja , Evert Matthias , Schlitt Hans J. , Geissler Edward K. , van Blijswijk Janneke , Lee Sonia , Reis e Sousa Caetano , Brunner Stefan M. , Fichtner‐Feigl Stefan
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to elucidate whether DC NK lectin group receptor‐1 (DNGR‐1)‐dependent cross‐presentation of dead‐cell‐associated antigens occurs after transplantation and contributes to CD8+ T cell responses, chronic allograft rejection (CAR), and fibrosis. BALB/c or C57BL/6 hearts were heterotopically transplanted into WT, Clec9a−/−, or Batf3−/− recipient C57BL/6 mice. Allografts were analyzed for cell infiltration, CD8+ T cell activation, fibrogenesis, and CAR using immunohistochemistry, Western blot, qRT2‐PCR, and flow cytometry. Allografts displayed infiltration by recipient DNGR‐1+ DCs, signs of CAR, and fibrosis. Allografts in Clec9a−/− recipients showed reduced CAR (p < 0.0001), fibrosis (P = 0.0137), CD8+ cell infiltration (P < 0.0001), and effector cytokine levels compared to WT recipients. Batf3‐deficiency greatly reduced DNGR‐1+ DC‐infiltration, CAR (P < 0.0001), and fibrosis (P = 0.0382). CD8 cells infiltrating allografts of cytochrome C treated recipients, showed reduced production of CD8 effector cytokines (P < 0.05). Further, alloreactive CD8+ T cell response in indirect pathway IFN‐γ ELISPOT was reduced in Clec9a−/− recipient mice (P = 0.0283). Blockade of DNGR‐1 by antibody, similar to genetic elimination of the receptor, reduced CAR (P = 0.0003), fibrosis (P = 0.0273), infiltration of CD8+ cells (p = 0.0006), and effector cytokine levels. DNGR‐1‐dependent alloantigen cross‐presentation by DNGR‐1+ DCs induces alloreactive CD8+ cells that induce CAR and fibrosis. Antibody against DNGR‐1 can block this process and prevent CAR and fibrosis.
Sensitive CE‐MS method for monitoring of riociguat and desmethylriociguat levels in human serum
Authors: Hložek Tomáš , Štícha Martin , Bursová Miroslava , Jelínek Ivan , Tůma Petr , Čabala Radomír
Published: July 2020

Riociguat is novel antihypertensive drug for treatment of pulmonary hypertension. As such, it is still being tested in many clinical and pharmacokinetic trials. Existing methods that determine serum riociguat and desmethylriociguat (DMR) are based solely on liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Therefore, we present a novel capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry method (CE‐MS) for their determination in human serum as alternative method for ongoing trials. Complete resolution of both analytes was achieved by means of pH optimization of ammonium formate background electrolytes that are fully compatible with ESI/MS detection. Simple liquid‐liquid extraction was used as sample pretreatment. The calibration dependence of the method was linear (in the range of 10–1000 ng/mL), with adequate accuracy (90.1–114.9%) and precision (13.4%). LOD and LOQ were arbitrarily set at 10 ng/mL for both analytes. Clinical applicability was validated using serum samples from patients treated with riociguat in pharmacokinetic study and the results corresponded with reference HPLC‐MS/MS values. Capillary electrophoresis proved to be sensitive and selective tool for the analysis of riociguat and DMR.
Boosting the Performance of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells via Incorporation of Gd3+ and Nd3+ Double‐doped Ceria▴
Authors: Park J. H. , Kim K. J. , Jung C. H. , Jeong W. , Shin H. R. , Hong J.‐E. , Lee K. T.
Published: July 2020

The solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) and its developement are in an increasing focus, because of its high efficiency and eco‐friendliness in storing energy by converting electrical energy into hydrogen. Recently, research has been conducted to decrease the operation temperature of SOECs below 750 °C to overcome high system costs and rapid degradation rate at high operation temperatures. Although La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3–δ (LSCF) is a promising oxygen electrode for SOEC, when the operating temperature is reduced, the reaction kinetics of the LSCF oxygen electrode is significantly decreased due to high activation energy of the oxygen ion transport. To address this issue, we developed a composite oxygen electrode of LSCF combined with Gd and Nd double doped ceria (GNDC). Due to excellent oxygen ion transport nature of GNDC, the SOEC with the LSCF‐GNDC oxygen electrode yielded impressive current density of ∼1,174 mA cm−2 at 1.3 V at 750 °C along with excellent stability. These results demonstrated that the novel LSCF‐GNDC composite is promising as an efficient and durable oxygen electrode for SOEC applications.
Immunoglobulin profile and B‐cell frequencies are altered with changes in the cellular microenvironment independent of the stimulation conditions
Authors: Moore Dannielle K. , Leisching Gina R. , Snyders Candice I. , Gutschmidt Andrea , van Rensburg Ilana C. , Loxton Andre G.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

B‐cells are essential in the defense againstMycobacterium tuberculosis. Studies on isolated cells may not accurately reflect the responses that occur in vivo due to the presence of other cells. This study elucidated the influence of microenvironment complexity on B‐cell polarization and function in the context of tuberculosis disease.

Methods

B‐cell function was tested in whole blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and as isolated cells. The different fractions were stimulated and the B‐cell phenotype and immunoglobulin profiles analyzed.

Results

The immunoglobulin profile and developmental B‐cell frequencies varied for each of the investigated sample types, while in an isolated cellular environment, secretion of immunoglobulin isotypes immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG2, and IgG3 was hampered. The differences in the immunoglobulin profile highlight the importance of cell‐cell communication for B‐cell activation. Furthermore, a decrease in marginal zone B‐cell frequencies and an increase in T1 B‐cells was observed following cell isolation, indicating impaired B‐cell development in response to in vitro antigenic stimulation in isolation.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that humoral B‐cell function and development was impaired likely due to a lack of costimulatory signals from other cell types. Thus, B‐cell function should ideally be studied in a PBMC or whole blood fraction.
Phase II clinical trial of pazopanib for patients with unresectable or metastatic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors
Authors: Nishida Yoshihiro , Urakawa Hiroshi , Nakayama Robert , Kobayashi Eisuke , Ozaki Toshifumi , Ae Keisuke , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Goto Takahiro , Hiraga Hiroaki , Naka Norifumi , Takahashi Shunji , Ando Yuichi , Ando Masahiko , Kuwatsuka Yachiyo , Hamada Shunsuke , Ueda Takafumi , Kawai Akira
Published: July 2020

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) often does not respond well to chemotherapy and develops against a background of NF1. The purpose of our study was to examine the efficacy of pazopanib against MPNST. Our study was designed as a physician‐initiated phase II clinical trial in patients with advanced MPNST. Patients were registered from 11 large hospitals. The primary endpoint was set to clarify the clinical benefit rate (CBR) at 12 weeks according to response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST). Progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and the CBR based on modified Choi evaluation at week 12 were set as secondary endpoints along with treatment‐related safety. The study enrolled 12 patients. Median age was 49 years. Seven had Grade 2 and five Grade 3 according to the FNCLCC evaluation. Median follow‐up period was 10.6 months. CBR at 12 weeks was both 50.0% (RECIST and Choi). The median PFS was 5.4 months for both RECIST and Choi, and the median OS was 10.6 months. Of special interest, the median PFS was 2.9 months for patients with FNCLCC Grade 2 and 10.2 months for Grade 3 (both RECIST and Choi). Grade 4 adverse events of neutropenia and lipase elevation were noted in one patient each. The results of this pazopanib therapy were generally better than those of any of the other single molecular targeted therapies reported previously. Although accumulation of more cases remains necessary, we conclude pazopanib treatment for MPNST to be a safe and promising treatment after doxorubicin‐based chemotherapy.
The impact of SAMHD1 expression and mutation status in mantle cell lymphoma: An analysis of the MCL Younger and Elderly trial
Authors: Roider Tobias , Wang Xi , Hüttl Katrin , Müller‐Tidow Carsten , Klapper Wolfram , Rosenwald Andreas , Stewart James Peter , de Castro David Gonzalez , Dreger Peter , Hermine Olivier , Kluin‐Nelemans Hanneke C. , Grabe Niels , Dreyling Martin , Pott Christiane , Ott German , Hoster Eva , Dietrich Sascha
Published: July 2020

The sterile alpha motif and histidine‐aspartic domain‐containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) has been demonstrated to predict the response to high‐dose cytarabine consolidation treatment in acute myeloid leukemia patients. Here, we evaluated SAMHD1 as potential biomarker for the response to high‐dose cytarabine in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) patients. We quantified SAMHD1 protein expression and determined the mutation status in patients of the MCL Younger and Elderly trials (n = 189), who had received high‐dose cytarabine‐ or fludarabine‐based polychemotherapy. Additionally, we quantified SAMHD1 expression in B cell lymphoma cell lines and exposed them to cytarabine, fludarabine, and clinically relevant combinations. Across both trials investigated, SAMHD1 mutations had a frequency of 7.1% (n = 13) and did not significantly affect the failure‐free survival (FFS, P = .47). In patients treated with high‐dose cytarabine‐ or fludarabine‐containing regimes, SAMHD1 expression was not significantly associated with FFS or complete remission rate. SAMHD1 expression in B cell lymphoma cell lines, however, inversely correlated with their in vitro response to cytarabine as single agent (R = .65, P = .0065). This correlation could be reversed by combining cytarabine with other chemotherapeutics, such as oxaliplatin and vincristine, similar to the treatment regime of the MCL Younger trial. We conclude that this might explain why we did not observe a significant association between SAMHD1 protein expression and the outcome of MCL patients upon cytarabine‐based treatment.
SIRT1‐mediated amelioration of oxidative stress in kidney of alcohol‐aflatoxin‐B1‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma by resveratrol is catalase dependent and GPx independent
Authors: Rawat Divya , Shrivastava Somi , Naik Rayees Ahmad , Chhonker Saurabh Kumar , Koiri Raj Kumar
Published: July 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of primary liver cancer and dietary exposure to aflatoxins is a major risk factor of HCC. The current study aimed to assess the role of resveratrol and nicotinamide in renal toxicity during alcohol‐aflatoxin‐B1‐induced HCC. The results revealed that resveratrol treatment normalized the level of urea, lipid peroxidation, lactate and lactate dehydrogenase, which were increased in HCC. It also downregulated the increased expression of sirtuin 1 in HCC kidney. Furthermore, amelioration of oxidative stress in kidney of HCC rats by resveratrol was observed to be catalase dependent and glutathione peroxidase independent.
Comparison of the Effects of Low‐Molecular‐Weight Heparin and Fondaparinux on Liver Function in Patients With Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Yang Xu , Li Nan , Guo Tingting , Guan Xiaoyuan , Tan Jiangshan , Gao Xin , Wu Yan , Jia Lei , Gu Min , Hua Lu , Liu Hong
Published: July 2020

Hepatotoxicity with low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) or fondaparinux is a relatively common adverse reaction. This study assessed the effects of LMWH and fondaparinux on liver function in patients with pulmonary embolism based on a retrospective cohort. As a result, a total of 463 patients with pulmonary embolism and treated with LMWH (enoxaparin sodium or nadroparin calcium) or fondaparinux sodium were included. Liver dysfunction was identified in 79 patients (17.1%), of whom 97.5% had grade 1 drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) and 2.5% had grade 2 DILI. The results showed that liver dysfunction usually occurred in the first week after anticoagulant administration, and the liver tests of all patients with liver dysfunction gradually recovered or alleviated at discharge. The multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that a longer treatment course and hepatitis B surface antigen‐positive (HBsAg+) were risk factors for liver dysfunction (P < .05). Moreover, nadroparin calcium had the highest risk of liver dysfunction, approximately 2.2 times (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1740‐4.224; P = .015) that of enoxaparin sodium. In conclusion, nearly one‐fifth and 10% of patients prescribed with LMWH or fondaparinux, respectively, for pulmonary embolism had liver dysfunction, mainly with mild liver injury and characterized by self‐limited elevated serum transaminase levels. Hence, during the 3 anticoagulant applications, we should pay more attention to the monitoring of liver function in the first week and transit to oral anticoagulants if possible, especially for patients who are HBsAg+ or suffering from other liver diseases.
An investigation of the role of spatial ability in representing and solving word problems among engineering students
Authors: Duffy Gavin , Sorby Sheryl , Bowe Brian
Published: July 2020

Background

Spatial ability is significantly related to performance in engineering education, and problem‐solving, an activity that is highly relevant to engineering education, has been linked to spatial ability.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study investigated the following question: To what extent is spatial ability related to problem‐solving among engineering students and how do approaches to problem representation and solution vary with spatial ability level?

Design/Method

A spatial ability test, a set of math word problems and an accompanying math ability test, was administered to two samples of first‐year engineering students in two countries. Data were analyzed at the test level to evaluate the relationship of spatial ability to problem representation and solution. A detailed item level analysis was conducted to compare approach to problem‐solving with spatial ability level.

Results

Spatial ability was found to be significantly related to problem‐solving but not to the math ability test, indicating the relationship was limited to the problem representation phase, not the solution phase. Key aspects of representation were identified for each problem to reveal a more pronounced relationship between representation and spatial ability than between problem‐solving (representation and solution) and spatial ability.

Conclusions

Problem‐solving can be considered to consist of two cognitively distinct phases: problem representation and problem solution. It was found that spatial ability is significantly related to problem representation but not to problem solution. Hence, this study shows that spatial ability plays a key role in engineering education that is not limited to visualization of imagery but extends to thinking during problem‐solving, a nonroutine activity that requires mental representation.
Frontline Science: AMPK regulates metabolic reprogramming necessary for interferon production in human plasmacytoid dendritic cells
Authors: Hurley Harry J , Dewald Hannah , Rothkopf Zachary S , Singh Sukhwinder , Jenkins Frank , Deb Pratik , De Saurav , Barnes Betsy J , Fitzgerald-Bocarsly Patricia
Published: July 2020

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) play a crucial role in innate viral immunity as the most potent producers of type I interferons (IFN) in the human body. However, the metabolic regulation of IFN production in such vast quantity remains poorly understood. In this study, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is strongly implicated as a driver of metabolic reprogramming that the authors and others have observed in pDCs after activation via TLR7/9. Oxygen consumption and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were elevated following stimulation of pDCs with influenza or herpes simplex virus. Blocking these changes using mitochondrial inhibitors abrogated IFN-α production. While it appears that multiple carbon sources can be used by pDCs, blocking pyruvate metabolism had the strongest effect on IFN-α production. Furthermore, we saw no evidence of aerobic glycolysis (AG) during pDC activation and blocking lactate dehydrogenase activity did not inhibit IFN-α. TLR7/9 ligation induces a posttranslational modification in Raptor that is catalyzed by AMPK, and blocking TLR7/9 before virus introduction prevents this change. Finally, it is demonstrated that Dorsomorphin, an AMPK inhibitor, inhibited both IFN-α production and MMP in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these data reveal a potential cellular mechanism for the metabolic reprogramming in TLR 7/9-activated pDCs that supports activation and IFN-α production.
First molecular characterization of the hepatitis E virus in humans in Cameroon: Confirmation of the HEV outbreak in Touboro, North‐Cameroon
Authors: Modiyinji Abdou Fatawou , Rivero‐Juarez Antonio , Lopez‐Lopez Pedro , Atsama Marie Amougou , Monamele Chavely Gwladys , Nola Moise , Rivero Antonio , Njouom Richard
Published: July 2020

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major causative agent of acute viral hepatitis in many regions of the world including Africa. In Cameroon, there is no published molecular study on HEV in humans. However, based on serological assays, the first outbreak of HEV was detected in North‐Cameroon. The objective of this study was to determine the molecular characterization of HEV that circulated during this period. A retrospective study design was used to select serum samples among those collected during the outbreak period. immunoglobulin M positive samples available in sufficient volumes to amplify HEV RNA were selected. RNA was extracted and then amplified by a real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real time RT‐PCR) assay, followed by a nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (nested RT‐PCR) assay for sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Overall, 24 samples were selected and HEV RNA was amplified by real‐time RT‐PCR in 20 samples. Amongst these, 12 samples were positive for HEV RNA by nested RT‐PCR and yielded good sequencing products. Phylogenetic analysis showed that 10 samples clustered with HEV genotype 1 (subtype 1e) and two samples clustered with HEV genotype 3 (subtype 3f). This study fills the gap of knowledge on the molecular epidemiology of HEV in Cameroon and confirms the first report of the hepatitis E outbreak in North‐Cameroon.
Utility of stabilized nitrogen fertilizers to reduce nitrate leaching under optimal management practices
Authors: Mateo-Marín Noemí , Quílez Dolores , Isla Ramón
Published: July 2020

Background: The inadequate application of nitrogen (N) to crops has increased the reactive N in the atmosphere and in the surface and ground waters. Stabilized N‐fertilizers with nitrification (NI) and urease (UI) inhibitors have been proposed to reduce these environmental problems without affecting or even increasing crop productivity.

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate, in a maize–maize–wheat rotation, if the use of the NI 3,4‐dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) and the UIs N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) and monocarbamide dihydrogen sulfate (MCDHS) reduces N leaching without compromising yield under optimal management of N and water.

Methods: The experiment was conducted in 24 drainage lysimeters with two soil types with contrasting water holding capacity under Mediterranean irrigated conditions. The fertilizer treatments were urea, urea with DMPP, urea with NBPT, and urea with MCDHS. For the maize crop, conventional fertilizer application was split into 6‐ and 13‐leaf stages, whereas stabilized fertilizers were applied as a single application at the 6‐leaf stage. All fertilizer treatments were applied at late tillering in the wheat crop.

Results: The soil mineral N was measured at the beginning and the end of each crop season, but no differences were found among fertilizer treatments. Differences in the volume of water drained or the cumulative mass of nitrate depending on the fertilizer were not significant (three‐year treatment average of 200 L m−2 and 22 kg N ha−1 in the Deep soil, and 334 L m−2 and 40 kg N ha−1 in the Shallow type, respectively). No consistent significant differences were found in agronomic parameters (chlorophyll measurements, yield, and total N uptake) between the fertilizer treatments.

Conclusion: Based on the results, the use of stabilized N‐fertilizer could be recommended to reduce the number of N applications in maize without compromising grain yield but with no advantages to reduce nitrate‐leaching losses if N rates are managed properly under efficient irrigation management practices.
Enzyme Scaffolds with Hierarchically Defined Properties via 3D Jet Writing
Authors: Steier Anke , Schmieg Barbara , Irtel von Brenndorff Yannic , Meier Manuel , Nirschl Hermann , Franzreb Matthias , Lahann Joerg
Published: July 2020

The immobilization of enzymes into polymer hydrogels is a versatile approach to improve their stability and utility in biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, these systems typically show limited enzyme activity, due to unfavorable pore dimensions and low enzyme accessibility. Here, 3D jet writing of water‐based bioinks, which contain preloaded enzymes, is used to prepare hydrogel scaffolds with well‐defined, tessellated micropores. After 3D jet writing, the scaffolds are chemically modified via photopolymerization to ensure mechanical stability. Enzyme loading and activity in the hydrogel scaffolds is fully retained over 3 d. Important structural parameters of the scaffolds such as pore size, pore geometry, and wall diameter are controlled with micrometer resolution to avoid mass‐transport limitations. It is demonstrated that scaffold pore sizes between 120 µm and 1 mm can be created by 3D jet writing approaching the length scales of free diffusion in the hydrogels substrates and resulting in high levels of enzyme activity (21.2% activity relative to free enzyme). With further work, a broad range of applications for enzyme‐laden hydrogel scaffolds including diagnostics and enzymatic cascade reactions is anticipated.
Durable, Sensitive, and Wide‐Range Wearable Pressure Sensors Based on Wavy‐Structured Flexible Conductive Composite Film
Authors: Shen Yepeng , Wang Yanbin , Luo Zhonglin , Wang Biaobing
Published: July 2020

Flexible pressure sensors have potential applications in human motion monitoring and electronic skins. To satisfy the practical applications, pressure sensors with a high sensitivity, a low detection limit, a broad response range, and an excellent stability are highly needed. Here, a piezoresistive pressure sensor based on wavy‐structured single‐walled carbon nanotube/graphite flake/thermoplastic polyurethane (SWCNT/GF/TPU) composite film is fabricated by a prestretching process. Due to the random wavy structure, high conductivity, and good flexibility, the prepared sensor displays a low detection limit of 2 Pa, a wide sensing range of 0–60 kPa, and a high sensitivity of 5.49 kPa−1 for 0–50 Pa. Furthermore, the sensor shows a remarkable repeatability of over 1.1 × 104, 9.0 × 103, and 2.0 × 103 pressure loading/unloading cycles at 50 Pa, 500 Pa, and 30 kPa, respectively, and a fast responsibility of 100–150 ms of loading response time and 400–600 ms of relaxation time. Therefore, the pressure sensor is successfully adopted to monitor both the large‐scale human activities (e.g., walk and jump) and the small‐scale signals (e.g., wrist pulse). Furthermore, a sensor array is assembled to map the weight and shape of an object, indicating its various potential applications including human–machine interactions, human health monitoring, and other wearable electronics.
g‐natural symmetries on tangent bundles
Authors: Abbassi Mohamed Tahar Kadaoui , Amri Noura , Calvaruso Giovanni
Published: July 2020

The study of symmetries is a well known research topic in differential geometry with relevant physical interpretations. Given a Riemannian manifold , we consider pseudo‐Riemannian g‐natural metrics G on its tangent bundle and characterize conformal, homothetic and Killing vector fields of obtained from natural lifts of vector fields of M.
Multifield and inverse‐contrast switching of magnetocaloric high contrast ratio MRI labels
Authors: Barbic Mladen , Dodd Stephen J. , ElBidweihy Hatem , Dilley Neil R. , Marcheschi Barbara , Huston Alan L. , Morris H. Douglas , Koretsky Alan P.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Demonstrating multifield and inverse contrast switching of magnetocaloric high contrast ratio MRI labels that either have increasing or decreasing moment versus temperature slopes depending on the material at physiological temperatures and different MRI magnetic field strengths.

Methods

Two iron‐rhodium samples of different purity (99% and 99.9%) and a lanthanum‐iron‐silicon sample were obtained from commercial vendors. Temperature and magnetic field‐dependent magnetic moment measurements of the samples were performed on a vibrating sample magnetometer. Temperature‐dependent MRI of different iron‐rhodium and lanthanum‐iron‐silicon samples were performed on 3 different MRI scanners at 1 Tesla (T), 4.7T, and 7T.

Results

Sharp, first‐order magnetic phase transition of each iron‐rhodium sample at a physiologically relevant temperature (~37°C) but at different MRI magnetic fields (1T, 4.7T, and 7T, depending on the sample) showed clear image contrast changes in temperature‐dependent MRI. Iron‐rhodium and lanthanum‐iron‐silicon samples with sharp, first‐order magnetic phase transitions at the same MRI field of 1T and physiological temperature of 37°C, but with positive and negative slope of magnetization versus temperature, respectively, showed clear inverse contrast image changes. Temperature‐dependent MRI on individual microparticle samples of lanthanum‐iron‐silicon also showed sharp image contrast changes.

Conclusion

Magnetocaloric materials of different purity and composition were demonstrated to act as diverse high contrast ratio switchable MRI contrast agents. Thus, we show that a range of magnetocaloric materials can be optimized for unique image contrast response under MRI‐appropriate conditions at physiological temperatures and be controllably switched in situ.
Sleep, self‐management, neurocognitive function, and glycemia in emerging adults with Type 1 diabetes mellitus: A research protocol
Authors: Griggs Stephanie , Redeker Nancy S. , Crawford Sybil L. , Grey Margaret
Published: July 2020

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) affects 1.6 million Americans, and only 14% of emerging adults ages 18–25 years achieve targets for glycemic control (A1C < 7.0%). Sleep deficiency, including habitual short sleep duration (<6.5 hr total sleep time and high within‐person variability in total sleep time), is associated with poorer glycemic control. Emerging adults with T1D have a more pronounced sleep extension on weekends compared with matched controls, consistent with sleep deficiency; however, associations among sleep variability and glycemic control have not been explored in this population. Sleep deficiency may affect the complex higher‐order neurocognitive functioning needed for successful diabetes self‐management (DSM). We report the protocol for an ongoing study designed to characterize sleep and the associations among sleep deficiency, neurocognitive function, DSM, diabetes quality of life, and glycemia among a sample of 40 emerging adults with T1D. We monitor sleep via wrist‐worn actigraphy and glucose via continuous glucose monitoring concurrently over 14 days. We are collecting data on self‐report and objective sleep, a 10‐min psychomotor vigilance test on a PVT‐192 device, a 3‐min Trail Making Test on paper, and questionnaires, including twice‐daily Pittsburgh sleep diaries using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap)TM. Results from this study will be used to support the development and testing of the efficacy of a tailored sleep self‐management intervention that may improve total sleep time, sleep variability, neurocognitive function, DSM, glycemic control, and glucose variability among emerging adults with T1D.
Regulating the Fluorescence Emission of CdSe Quantum Dots Based on the Surface Ligand Exchange with MAA
Authors: Huang Zhaoling , Zeng Qi , Bai Zhongchen , Qin Shuijie
Published: July 2020

Cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots (QDs) is a promising semiconductor and fluorescence nanocrystal with quantum size effect. To address the problem of fluorescence emission during the process of the ligand transformation of colloidal cluster CdSe QDs from nonpolar organic solvents to polar inorganic aqueous solutions, the surface ligand exchange with mercapto acetic acid (MAA) was proposed. It was attributed to the Cd‐O bond breaking and the Cd‐S bond formation. The intensity and wavelength of fluorescence emission spectra could be adjusted by controlling the concentration of MAA. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra and UV‐Vis absorption spectra of colloidal cluster CdSe QDs indicated that the electronic properties of the interface varied with the exchange of the surface ligands. Moreover, the band‐edge emission quenching occurred and the maximum redshift of the PL spectrum could reach 28 nm. The enhancement of the deep trap emission peaks of CdSe QDs appeared in 600‐900 nm region, and the maximum blue shift of the defect peak in PL spectrum could reach 80 nm with the increase concentration of MAA. The absorption spectra and PL spectra on the surface of porous alumina thin film were used to further analyze the charge separation and capture of charge carriers. This novel organic‐inorganic ligand exchange method provides an effective strategy for regulating fluorescence and electron transfer, which could be used on biological, solar cells or other practical applications.
Properties of gradient polyimide aerogels prepared through layer‐by‐layer assembly
Authors: Yuan Shuaiwei , Yu Zhi , Wu Peng , Zhou Shengtai , Zou Huawei , Liu Pengbo
Published: July 2020

A series of density gradient polyimide (PI) aerogels were prepared using layer‐by‐layer assembly and radial freezing method. Briefly, a layer of poly(amic acid) (PAA) ammonium salt aqueous solution was first radially frozen. Then, the second layer of PAA ammonium salt (PAS) aqueous solution of different concentration was added on the top of the first PAS layer and radially frozen. A multilayer gradient PAS solid sample could therefore be fabricated by repeating this similar procedure. The density gradient PI aerogels were obtained after freezing drying and final thermal imidization treatment. Each layer of gradient PI aerogels had anisotropic pore structure, which consisted of tube‐like pores along the radial direction and toward the center axis of the cylindrical samples. The compressive strength of five‐layer gradient PI aerogel was higher than that of three‐layer gradient and single‐layer PI aerogels with the same density. The gradient PI aerogels exhibited anisotropic heat transfer behavior in the direction of density gradient, and heat transfer from the higher density side to the lower density side was faster.
Effect of cinnamon on migraine attacks and inflammatory markers: A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Zareie Azadeh , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Khorvash Fariborz , Bagherniya Mohammad , Hasanzadeh Akbar , Askari Gholamreza
Published: July 2020

Migraine is the most common type of primary headaches. Increased levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), calcitonin‐gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and nitric oxide (NO) lead to inflammation and neurogenic pain. Cinnamon has anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of cinnamon on migraine attacks and inflammatory status. Fifty patients with migraine were randomized to receive either cinnamon powder (three capsules/day each containing 600 mg of cinnamon) or three placebo capsules/day each containing 100 mg of corn starch (control group) for 2 months. Serum levels of IL‐6, CGRP and NO were measured at baseline and at the end of the study. The frequency, severity and duration of pain attacks were also recorded using questionnaire. Serum concentrations of IL‐6 and NO were significantly reduced in the cinnamon group compared with the control group (p < .05). However, serum levels of CGRP remained unchanged in both groups. The frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks were significantly decreased in the cinnamon group compared with the control group. Cinnamon supplementation reduced inflammation as well as frequency, severity and duration of headache in patients with migraine. Cinnamon could be regarded as a safe supplement to relieve pain and other complications of migraine.
Rehabilitation scenarios for reservoirs: Predicting their effect on invertebrate communities through machine learning
Authors: Jovem‐Azevêdo Daniele , Bezerra‐Neto José F. , Molozzi Joseline , Feio Maria J.
Published: July 2020

Reservoirs are ecosystems that provide important services and reserves of aquatic biodiversity, especially in arid and semiarid regions. However, they are also highly vulnerable to pollution, water abstraction and land use change. Here, we aimed to develop a “dirty‐water” predictive model that could be used to create recovery scenarios and analyze the effect of measures on the biological quality of reservoirs. Accordingly, we constructed a machine learning predictive model that was trained with environmental and macroinvertebrate community data from 129 sites, sampled in six reservoirs in Northeast Brazil. Two different rehabilitation scenarios were simulated (D1 = lower improvement, 25% change; and D2 = higher improvement, 75% change), and three initial levels of disturbance were considered based on PCA analyses: least disturbed, moderately disturbed and severely disturbed. The effects were analyzed in terms of changes in expectedtaxa(E), observed/expected taxon ratio (OE), biotic and trophic status indices and the spatial distribution of sensitivetaxa. The simulations resulted in significant improvements (p < .001) for all disturbance levels and indicators analyzed. Furthermore, rehabilitation measures in artificial systems, such as reservoirs, could result in a higher biodiversity, biological quality and water quality, also in the least disturbed sites. Thus, this approach has the potential to provide information on management and conservation measures, since the simultaneous predictions of many taxa can be used, including: mapping the distribution of species; monitor the population dynamics of species at risk of extinction; and determining the best rehabilitation measures to improve disturbed ecosystems, allowing the determination of the most cost‐effective restoration measures.
Three-dimensional environment and vascularization induce osteogenic maturation of human adipose-derived stem cells comparable to that of bone-derived progenitors
Authors: Ibrahim Amel , Rodriguez-Florez Naiara , Gardner Oliver F. W. , Zucchelli Eleonora , New Sophie E. P. , Borghi Alessandro , Dunaway David , Bulstrode Neil W. , Ferretti Patrizia
Published: July 2020

While human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) are known to possess osteogenic differentiation potential, the bone tissues formed are generally considered rudimentary and immature compared with those made by bone-derived precursor cells such as human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and less commonly studied human calvarium osteoprogenitor cells (hOPs). Traditional differentiation protocols have tended to focus on osteoinduction of hADSCs through the addition of osteogenic differentiation media or use of stimulatory bioactive scaffolds which have not resulted in mature bone formation. Here, we tested the hypothesis that by reproducing the physical as well as biochemical bone microenvironment through the use of three-dimensional (3D) culture and vascularization we could enhance osteogenic maturation in hADSCs. In addition to biomolecular characterization, we performed structural analysis through extracellular collagen alignment and mineral density in our bone tissue engineered samples to evaluate osteogenic maturation. We further compared bone formed by hADSCs, hBMSCs, and hOPs against mature human pediatric calvarial bone, yet not extensively investigated. Although bone generated by all three cell types was still less mature than native pediatric bone, a fibrin-based 3D microenvironment together with vascularization boosted osteogenic maturation of hADSC making it similar to that of bone-derived osteoprogenitors. This demonstrates the important role of vascularization and 3D culture in driving osteogenic maturation of cells easily available but constitutively less committed to this lineage and suggests a crucial avenue for recreating the bone microenvironment for tissue engineering of mature craniofacial bone tissues from pediatric hADSCs, as well as hBMSCs and hOPs.

Significance statement Tissue-engineered bone can provide a lifelong solution for reconstructing deformities and defects in the pediatric facial skeleton; thus, bypassing the risk of infection and invasive surgery associated with current treatments. Fat-derived stem cells are an abundant and easily isolated source for bone tissue engineering. So far, they have been limited by the immaturity of the bone formed. This study demonstrated that altering the physical environment and introducing a blood supply can enhance the maturity of the bone these cells form. This provides the foundation for engineering more advanced bone to provide personalized replacement tissues.
Facile Synthesis of N‐Doped SnO2 Nanoparticles: A Cocatalyst‐Free Promising Photocatalyst for Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Bhawna  , Gupta Akanksha , Kumar Prashant , Tyagi Adish , Kumar Ravinder , Kumar Ashwani , Singh Prashant , Singh R. P. , Kumar Vinod
Published: July 2020

A facile solution‐based one‐step synthetic approach has been employed for an easy introduction of Nitrogen (N) into SnO2 lattice under the mild condition for a cocatalyst free hydrogen generation by photocatalytic water splitting. The crystal structure and morphology of synthesized N doped SnO2 nanoparticles were confirmed by powder X‐ray diffraction and electron microscopic techniques. Analysis by X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy confirms that 4.6 % N was present in SnO2 lattice, while broadband observed in the Raman spectrum reveals the presence of oxygen vacancies and disordered structure due to N‐doping. The nanoparticles exhibit high surface area (139.7 m2/g) and bandgap close to 3.45 eV as deduced from Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) measurement and Diffuse reflectance spectroscopic technique, respectively. The photocatalytic performance of the nanoparticles was evaluated by water splitting reaction for hydrogen generation using a photochemical reactor consisting of a Xenon lamp and was performed using different scavengers. It was found that out of various scavengers, maximum hydrogen yield, i. e., 169 μmol/g was achieved by N doped SnO2 nanoparticles with methanol and the order of scavengers for hydrogen generation using N doped SnO2 nanoparticles is Methanol>EDTA>TEOA.
Facile Preparation of h‐WO3/Carbon Cloth Nanocomposite and Its Electrochemical Properties for Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Ting , Liu Hui , Li Junqi , Munir Hafiz Akif
Published: July 2020

Electrode active materials play a key role in electrochemical performance of supercapacitors, thus researches on the electrode active materials with better characteristics is significative to develop the actual application of supercapacitors. Here, a new hierarchical architecture composed of hexagonal phase WO3 have been successfully prepared on carbon cloth (h‐WO3/CC) through a facile and effective two‐step method: hydrothermal approach and a post‐annealing process. For three electrode system tests, the composite electrode exhibits a large capacitance of up to 2918 mF cm−2 at a current density of 8 mA cm−2, 417 F g−1 at a scan rate of 5 mV s−1 and well reliability with almost no decrease after 5000 cycles in the presence of H2SO4 electrolyte. Furthermore, it can be constructed into a symmetric button capacitor for two electrode systems, which demonstrates outstanding rate capability and long cycling life. The excellent performance of h‐WO3/CC electrode principally attributes to the high surface area originating from the hierarchical architecture, the low internal resistance form WO3 which grows on the carbon cloth directly and multichannel structure of hexagonal crystal.