bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spreadable plant‐based cheese analogue with dry‐fractioned pea protein and inulin–olive oil emulsion‐filled gel
Authors: Mefleh Marina , Pasqualone Antonella , Caponio Francesco , De Angelis Davide , Natrella Giuseppe , Summo Carmine , Faccia Michele
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Consumer demand for plant‐based cheese analogues (PCA) is growing because of the easy and versatile ways in which they can be used. However, the products available on the market are nutritionally poor. They are low in protein, high in saturated fat and sodium, and often characterized by a long list of ingredients.

RESULTS

A clean label spreadable plant‐based cheese analogue was developed using dry‐fractionated pea protein and an emulsion‐filled gel composed of extra virgin olive oil and inulin, added in different concentrations as fat replacer (10%, 13% and 15% of the formulation). First, nutritional and textural analyses were performed, and the results were compared with two commercial products. The products were high in protein (134 g kg−1) and low in fat (52.2 g kg−1). The formulated PCAs had similar spreadability index to the dairy cheese but lower hardness (15.1 vs. 19.0 N) and a higher elasticity (0.60 vs. 0.35) consequent to their lower fat content (52.2 vs. 250 g kg−1). Then, dry oregano and rosemary (5 g kg−1) were added to the PCA, and sensory evaluation and analysis of volatile compounds were conducted. The addition of spices masked the legume flavor and significantly enriched the final product with aromatic compounds.

CONCLUSION

The use of dry‐fractioned pea protein and of the emulsion‐filled gel allowed us to develop a clean label and nutritionally valuable spreadable plant‐based cheese analogue. Overall, the ingredients and product concepts developed could be used to upgrade the formulation of plant‐based cheese on a larger scale. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Environment affects starch composition and kernel hardness in temperate maize
Authors: Martínez Roberto Dionisio , Cirilo Alfredo Gabriel , Cerrudo Aníbal Alejandro , Andrade Fernando Héctor , Izquierdo Natalia Gabriela
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Protein percentage and kernel weight affect the endosperm hardness of maize grains. However, changes in starch composition could also modify kernel hardness, which is often predicted through milling ratio. The objective of this work was to evaluate the relationship between changes in starch composition and endosperm hardness, and to assess the effects of protein content and kernel weight on that relationship. For this, we used information obtained from three temperate hybrids in multi‐environmental experiments, as well as experiments conducted under controlled conditions designed to modify starch composition. Milling ratio was determined as maize kernel hardness predictor in both experiments and it was correlated with grain weight and grain composition.

RESULTS

In both experiments, milling ratio presented a significant Spearman correlation coefficient with amylose/starch ratio. Milling ratio was significantly related to the amylose/starch ratio using a simple fit with datasets from different experiments and hybrids. Increases in amylose/starch ratio were associated with increases in milling ratio.

CONCLUSION

Starch composition was related to milling ratio variations among hybrids of different aptitude for dry milling through different environments, regardless of protein content. Thus, increases in the amylose/starch ratio were related to increases in the milling ratio. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Earthquake exposure, adverse childhood experiences, and psychosocial functioning in Chilean children: A longitudinal study
Authors: Dutta Anamika , Peña Felipe , Holcomb Juliana M. , Leiva Loreto , Squicciarini Ana María , Canenguez Katia M. , Bergmann Paul , Riobueno‐Naylor Alexa , Farley Alyssa M. , Simonsohn Ariela , Garfin Dana Rose , Cohen Silver Roxane , Benheim Talia S. , Guzmán Javier , Jellinek Michael S. , Murphy J. Michael
Published: March 2022

The impact of an 8.8 magnitude Chilean earthquake on elementary school students’ psychosocial functioning was assessed along with exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Skills for Life, a national school‐based mental health program in Chile, routinely assesses first‐ and third‐grade students’ psychosocial functioning and classroom adaptation. Students (N = 19,627) were screened before (2009) and after (2011) the 2010 earthquake with parent‐ and teacher‐report measures and with a parent‐report of four ACEs (family psychopathology, child chronic illness, family social isolation, father absence). Earthquake exposure was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe for Chile's 15 regions. Multilevel models analyzed the unadjusted and adjusted impacts of earthquake exposure and ACEs on functioning while clustering for school‐ and district‐level effects. In covariate‐adjusted models, earthquake exposure and three ACEs were significantly associated with worsened psychosocial functioning; earthquake exposure and all four ACEs were significantly associated with worsened classroom adaptation. New family psychopathology, B = 1.90, p < .001; chronic illness, B = 2.25, p < .001; and severe earthquake impact, B = 1.29, p < .001, held the strongest negative effects on psychosocial well‐being. Moderate, B = 3.04, p = .011, and severe earthquake exposure, B = 2.53, p = .047, and new family psychopathology, B = 1.99, p < .001, were associated with the worst classroom functioning 1‐year postdisaster. Findings suggest that both exogenous and home‐based stressors can have significant consequences for children's psychosocial functioning and classroom adaptation, and routine screening helps quantify how individual students are affected by chronic versus acute stressors.
The Diagnostic Value of Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound for Localization of Parathyroid Lesions in Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Piccin Ottavio , D'Alessio Pasquale , Serra Carla , Felicani Cristina , Vicennati Valentina , Repaci Andrea , Pagotto Uberto , Cavicchi Ottavio
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Preoperative localization of pathological parathyroid glands with imaging is essential for focused unilateral neck exploration and minimally invasive techniques. Recently published studies suggested that contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) had high accuracy in the localization of hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands, with a general increase in the sensitivity as compared to conventional sonography. The purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of CEUS in the localization of parathyroid lesions relating to surgical and histopathological data, in comparison to color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS), in the same series of patients.

Methods

Records of 142 patients who underwent parathyroidectomy were retrospectively examined comparing imaging and intraoperative/histopathologic findings.

Results

The overall sensitivity of CEUS was 77.6% compared with 74.6% for CDUS, although no significative differences were found (P = .516). Conversely, CDUS has shown higher sensitivity than CEUS in the group of patients with associated thyroid pathology but there was no statistical difference (P = .529). The sensitivity for detection of multiple adenomas was the same for both procedures.

Conclusions

We found no significative superior sensitivity of CEUS also in case of concomitant thyroid pathology and multiple glands disease.
Fear and loathing in the pelagic: How the seascape of fear impacts the biological carbon pump
Authors: Pinti Jérôme , Visser André W. , Serra‐Pompei Camila , Andersen Ken H. , Ohman Mark D. , Kiørboe Thomas
Published: March 2022

The biological carbon pump transports photosynthetically fixed carbon from surface waters to depths. It removes carbon from the atmosphere and sequesters it in the deep ocean, playing an important role in global climate regulation. As the biological carbon pump is directly related to biological processes, it is heavily influenced by the biomass and trophic interactions between populations in the ecosystem. However, behavioral responses and adaptations to predation risk change trophic interactions, potentially having larger impacts than direct effects on trophic interactions and population abundances. Thus, predation risk may play an important role in shaping the biological carbon pump's strength (how much carbon leaves the euphotic zone) and efficiency (what fraction of detritus reaches a certain depth without being degraded). Except in the case of active carbon transport by vertically migrating organisms, this role of risk is not generally recognized. Here, we synthesize the existing knowledge on the consequences of anti‐predation responses on the biological carbon pump. First, we consider a generic anti‐predation response and investigate the different direct, indirect, and cascading effects that the response can induce. Then, we focus on pelagic anti‐predation responses and detail how they can specifically alter the different components of the pump. Finally, we discuss points to consider in biological carbon pump studies and highlight directions for future research. In particular, there is a need for more quantitative research to evaluate the importance of anti‐predation responses in shaping the biological carbon pump.
The human factor: Weather bias in manual lake water quality monitoring
Authors: Rand James M. , Nanko Mirjam O. , Lykkegaard Mikkel B. , Wain Danielle , King Whitney , Bryant Lee D. , Hunter Alan
Published: March 2022

Sampling bias due to weather conditions has been anecdotally reported; however, in this analysis we demonstrate that manual lake sampling is significantly more likely to take place in “fair weather” conditions. We show and quantify how a manual lake monitoring program in Maine, USA, is biased due to wind speed, rainfall intensity, and air temperature. Emulating a manually sampled water quality (WQ) data set, we show that, on average, manual sampling recorded, depending upon depth, higher water temperature (between 0.4°C and 1.2°C), lower dissolved oxygen (DO) (between −0.8 and −0.4 mgL−1), and higher chlorophyll values (2.0 μgL−1) than average automated monitoring. By analyzing the actual manual monitoring data, we show that manually collected lake water temperatures are on average 1.0°C higher in the epilimnion and 0.5°C (corrected for sensor lag) higher in the hypolimnion compared to those collected using automated methods. We attribute these differences in WQ measurement values to the weather‐induced manual sampling bias. We believe that the nature of weather bias on manual monitoring will always record higher water temperatures, higher chlorophyll, and lower DO than automatic monitoring. The methodologies presented in this study will apply to similar manually sampled lake monitoring programs and the manual sampling bias will likely affect other WQ parameters. The weather‐induced water temperature bias reported is of the same order of magnitude as the root mean square errors reported in many lake models and is therefore considered substantial. If generally applicable and not corrected for, these results will have important implications for climate models, and similar applications, where manually collected WQ data are employed.
Artificial Intelligence in Classical and Quantum Photonics
Authors: Vernuccio Federico , Bresci Arianna , Cimini Valeria , Giuseppi Alessandro , Cerullo Giulio , Polli Dario , Valensise Carlo Michele
Published: March 2022

The last decades saw a huge rise of artificial intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool to boost industrial and scientific research in a broad range of fields. AI and photonics are developing a promising two‐way synergy: on the one hand, AI approaches can be used to control a number of complex linear and nonlinear photonic processes, both in the classical and quantum regimes; on the other hand, photonics can pave the way for a new class of platforms to accelerate AI‐tasks. This review provides the reader with the fundamental notions of machine learning (ML) and neural networks (NNs) and presents the main AI applications in the fields of spectroscopy and chemometrics, computational imaging (CI), wavefront shaping and quantum optics. The review concludes with an overview of future developments of the promising synergy between AI and photonics.
“Liquid‐Like” Surface Topography Waterborne Polyurethane Coatings with Bio‐Based and Easy‐Sliding Oil Repellency
Authors: Hu Jianfei , Huang Wenjie , Wu Yu , Zhao Yuting , Wan Ye , Meng Yuan , Liang Wangdong , Jiang Tao , Zhang Qunchao
Published: March 2022

Herein, a “liquid‐like” surface topography and sustainable approach is reported to fabricate transparent oil‐repellent coatings, which involves fabricating new crosslinking polyols by siloxane oligomer modified castor oil fatty chain, followed to obtain waterborne polyurethane coatings. This surface morphology is formed by the grafted polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) molecular chains in the coating molecules. This low surface tension and liquid‐like topography reduces the coefficient of friction with oily contaminants. Various low‐surface‐tension liquids can easily slide down the coating surfaces on substrates with lower tilting angle. The coatings are applicable to different substrates including glass, plastic, steel, and wood, and those with complex shapes and large surface areas. Thanks to the as‐described crosslinking structure of the coatings, their easy‐sliding oil repellency can be well maintained to avoid sand abrasion damages. Therefore, the advantageous characteristics of the as‐developed high transparency oil‐repellent and eco‐friendly coatings have the potential to replace traditional coatings and are highly practical for shielding against oily contaminants, chemical‐shield that protect coated plastics from dissolution by organic solvents, and nonstick coatings.
3D Printing based on Photopolymerization and Photocatalysts: Review and Prospect
Authors: Li Jia , Boyer Cyrille , Zhang Xuewen
Published: March 2022

3D printing is a fabrication method that has attracted worldwide attention in recent years, providing a convenient and economical method for the fabrication of 3D structures. With the development of this technology and the reduction of operating costs, the application of 3D printing is greatly expanded. This paper focuses on the application progress of 3D printing in the preparation of photocatalysts. Considering the advantage that photopolymerization‐based 3D printing technology can better control the structure and active component distribution of photocatalytic products, the realization possibility of one‐step digital light processing (DLP) printing photocatalyst products is particularly prospected. In addition, the latest research progress of photocatalytic materials and 3D printing technology is also summarized, and the problems that need to be broken through in the future development of DLP‐3D printing technology are discussed.
Authorized patents and total factor productivity under intensified market competition: Quasi‐natural experimental evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Chuan , Liu Lixia
Published: March 2022

Chinese government issued the foreign investment industry guidance catalog in 2011, which increased efforts to encourage foreign investment. We designed a quasi‐natural experiment based on this event to examine the impact of this policy on innovation and its economic benefits. Under this policy, the number of patent authorizations, mainly involving noninvention patents, increased significantly. The introduction of the policy intensified competition in the industries included in the catalog, and various types of patents obtained by enterprises in those industries significantly improved their total factor productivity (TFP). The nature and internal governance structure of enterprises had heterogeneous effects on productivity.
Dietary Advanced Glycation End‐Products Affects the Progression of Early Diabetes by Intervening in Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Wu Yi , Zong Minhua , Wu Hong , He Dong , Li Lin , Zhang Xia , Zhao Di , Li Bing
Published: March 2022

Scope

Epidemiologic studies indicate significant contributions of thermally processed diets to the risk for diabetes and its related renal complications, but the mechanisms relating diet to disease remain unclear. This study evaluates the effects of the diet differ only in the content of advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) on early diabetes in Leprdb/db mice.

Methods and results

High AGEs diet (60 mg CML per kg protein) is fed to mice for 8 weeks. Dietary AGEs associated with diabetic features, including hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and increased mRNA expression of renal chemokines, CCL3 and CXC3L1 are found. Untargeted metabolomics reveal that the high AGEs diet inhibits carbohydrate catabolism and promotes lipid anabolism. Additionally, the high AGEs diet alters the composition of the gut microbiota and indirectly affects the carbohydrate metabolism by altering the plasma levels of glyceraldehyde and pyruvate. However, switching to the lower AGEs diet can relieve most of the symptoms except microbiota composition.

Conclusion

The results indicate that dietary AGEs exposure intervenes in the development of diabetes through modulating the carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and critically, switching to the lower AGEs diet arrested or reversed diabetes progression. A light‐processing dietary intervention that helps to arrest early diabetes is suggested.
Science‐based quality control in boar semen production
Authors: Schulze Martin , Jung Markus , Hensel Britta
Published: March 2022

The ever‐increasing understanding of sperm physiology, combined with innovative technical advances, continuously furthers the development of boar semen production management. These improvements pave the way for the future implementation of modified quality assurance concepts. This review provides an overview of current trends and new approaches in boar semen production, focusing on: the improvement of hygienic standards, alternatives to the use of antibiotics including the application of cold temperature storage and the utilization of antimicrobial additives, as well as the implementation of new quality control tools. Furthermore, the influence of dilution and temperature management, as well as new possibilities for an improvement of boar semen shipping and storage conditions are reviewed.
Neue Wege: LED effizienter machen
Authors: Tautz Markus , Díaz Díaz David
Published: March 2022

Die nasschemischen Ätzreaktionen von Galliumnitrid zu verstehen hilft, sie gezielt manipulieren zu können. Dies macht es einfacher und kostengünstiger, Leuchtdioden (LED) herzustellen.
Roche‐Bilanz 2021: Immuntherapie und Covid‐Tests
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: March 2022

Im Jahr 2021 hat der Pharmakonzern Roche mehr verkauft als zuvor. Mehr Produkte gab es in der Onkologie, bei schweren Augenkrankheiten und in der Neurologie.
Kätzchen gehen immer
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: March 2022

Woran forschen Menschen abseits von Chemie, und was lässt sich mit ihren Ergebnissen anfangen? Wenn schon auf den ersten Blick nichts, dann doch vielleicht auf den zweiten. Und einen genauen Blick wirft das Ig‐Nobelpreis‐Komitee. Unter den Geehrten: Forschung zu Katzen, Kinoluft, Bärten und Orgasmen.
Chemiker in der Ukraine: Luftzschutzbunker statt Labor
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: March 2022

Nach dem Angriff der russischen Armee auf die Ukraine bleibt den Chemikern dort nur noch der Versuch, ihre Laborgeräte und Materialien zu erhalten.
Contra Patentfreigabe
Authors: Seuß Thomas
Published: March 2022

Den Patentschutz aufzuheben, bringt mehr Probleme als Nutzen.
Cytological and Molecular Approaches for Ploidy Determination: Results from a Wild Walleye Population
Authors: Farrell Collin J. , Johnson Brett M. , Hansen Adam G. , Myrick Christopher A. , Anderson Eric C. , Delomas Thomas A. , Schreier Andrea D. , Van Eenennaam Joel P.
Published: March 2022

With the increasing use of triploid fish for sport fisheries management, biologists, researchers, and managers working in field environments need practical methods to determine ploidy. Cytological methods (e.g., flow cytometry, Coulter counter) using erythrocytes are the most common for ploidy determination in fishes. However, collecting and storing erythrocytes can be logistically challenging during field work, and donor fish need to be alive or freshly killed. With rapid advances in molecular genetics, biologists, researchers, and managers may be unaware of molecular approaches for ploidy determination that could alleviate the difficulties associated with cytological methods and allow ploidy determination from archived samples (e.g., fin clips, scales, otoliths). In this study, we analyzed the agreement between molecular-based (using fin tissue) and Coulter counter-based (using blood) ploidy determinations for Walleyes Stizostedion vitreum—the first assessment of concordance between molecular and cytological methods for determining ploidy in the family Percidae. We found that agreement between these two methods was >98%. The high degree of agreement and greater ease of collecting and storing samples for molecular-based approaches relative to the traditional cytological ones support the utility of molecular methods for ploidy determination.
Unravelling the tumour genome: The evolutionary and clinical impacts of structural variants in tumourigenesis
Authors: Hamdan Alhafidz , Ewing Ailith
Published: March 2022

Structural variants (SVs) represent a major source of aberration in tumour genomes. Given the diversity in the size and type of SVs present in tumours, the accurate detection and interpretation of SVs in tumours is challenging. New classes of complex structural events in tumours are discovered frequently, and the definitions of the genomic consequences of complex events are constantly being refined. Detailed analyses of short‐read whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) data from large tumour cohorts facilitate the interrogation of SVs at orders of magnitude greater scale and depth. However, the inherent technical limitations of short‐read WGS prevent us from accurately detecting and investigating the impact of all the SVs present in tumours. The expanded use of long‐read WGS will be critical for improving the accuracy of SV detection, and in fully resolving complex SV events, both of which are crucial for determining the impact of SVs on tumour progression and clinical outcome. Despite the present limitations, we demonstrate that SVs play an important role in tumourigenesis. In particular, SVs contribute significantly to late‐stage tumour development and to intratumoural heterogeneity. The evolutionary trajectories of SVs represent a window into the clonal dynamics in tumours, a comprehensive understanding of which will be vital for influencing patient outcomes in the future. Recent findings have highlighted many clinical applications of SVs in cancer, from early detection to biomarkers for treatment response and prognosis. As the methods to detect and interpret SVs improve, elucidating the full breadth of the complex SV landscape and determining how these events modulate tumour evolution will improve our understanding of cancer biology and our ability to capitalise on the utility of SVs in the clinical management of cancer patients. © 2022 The Authors.The Journal of Pathologypublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Quantitative evaluation of cardiac glycosides and their seasonal variation analysis in Nerium oleander using UHPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Singh Yatendra , Nimoriya Renu , Rawat Priyanka , Mishra Dipak K. , Kanojiya Sanjeev
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Nerium oleander is an eminent source of structurally diverse cardiac glycosides (CGs), plays a prominent role in the treatment of heart failure, and inhibits the proliferation of cancer cell lines. CGs exert their cardiotonic action by binding to the extracellularly exposed recognition sites on Na+/K+‐ATPase, an integral membrane protein that establishes the electrochemical gradient of Na+ and K+ ions across the plasma membrane.

Objective

We aimed to quantitatively determine CGs and their seasonal variation in leaf and stem samples of N. oleander utilizing UHPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS techniques.

Methods

The UHPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS analytical method was developed utilizing multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The Waters BEH C18 (150 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm) column was used with a 22‐min linear gradient consisting of acetonitrile and 5 mM ammonium acetate buffer.

Results

In total 21 CGs were quantitatively determined in the seasonal leaf and stem samples of N. oleander along with the absolute quantitation of the three chemical markers odoroside H (244.8 μg/g), odoroside A (231.4 μg/g), and oleandrin (703.9 μg/g). The season‐specific accumulation of chemical markers was observed in the order of predominance odoroside A (summer season, stem), odoroside H (winter season, stem), and oleandrin (rainy season, leaf). Besides this, the remaining 18 CGs were relatively quantified in the same samples.

Conclusion

The developed method is simple and reliable and can be used for the identification and quantification of multiple CGs in N. oleander.
Neurotherapeutics for ADHD: Do they work?
Authors: Rubia Katya
Published: March 2022

This paper reflects on the use of neurotherapeutics for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is the most imaged child psychiatric disorder, with over 3 decades of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) research. Findings are relatively homogeneous compared to other psychiatric conditions with consistent evidence for differences, albeit small, relative to healthy controls in the structure and function of several frontal, parietotemporal, and striatal brain regions as well as their inter‐regional structural and functional connections. The functional deficits have been targeted with modern neurotherapeutics, including neurofeedback (using most commonly electroencephalography and more recently functional near‐infrared spectroscopy and functional MRI) and non‐invasive brain stimulation (such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, or external trigeminal nerve stimulation). Except for electroencephalography‐neurofeedback, the majority of neurotherapeutic studies have been relatively small, with very heterogenous research protocols and outcome measures and—likely as a consequence—inconsistent findings. Furthermore, most brain stimulation studies have tested effects on cognitive functions rather than clinical symptoms. So far, findings have not been very promising. Future studies require systematic testing of optimal protocols in large samples or homogenous subgroups to understand response prediction that could lead to individualized treatment.
First trimester ultrasound in the age of cell‐free DNA screening: What are we missing?
Authors: Ramdaney Aarti , Mulligan Shannon , Wittman Theresa , Wagner Chelsea
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the utility of first trimester (FT) ultrasound (US) between 10 and 14 weeks gestation in identifying fetal findings that would impact clinical management.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of FT US associated with an abnormal ICD‐10 code from August 2016 to December 2018. Results of FT US, genetic testing, and management decisions were abstracted from the electronic health record.

Results

A total of 20,594 FT US were performed within our study period, representing 6064 unique patients. Of these, 278 ultrasounds were noted to have fetal findings (278/6064, 4.6%). The most frequent fetal findings were fetal demises (98/278, 35.3%), followed by increased NT/cystic hygroma (67/278, 24.1%), and multiple anomalies (35/278, 12.6%). There was a significant difference between the frequency of fetal findings between patients considered advanced maternal age (AMA) and those who were not (p = 0.017). However, there was no significant difference in the frequency of specific anomalies between these two groups (p = 0.103).

Conclusion

FT US provides clinical information outside the scope of cfDNA screening in both AMA and non‐AMA populations regarding viability and fetal anatomy. Earlier detection of these findings is crucial to allow for the opportunity of informed discussion of testing strategy and decision making.
Application of conductive polymer hydrogels in flexible electronics
Authors: Guo Xin , Li Jiean , Wang Fanyu , Zhang Jia‐Han , Zhang Jing , Shi Yi , Pan Lijia
Published: March 2022

Flexible electronic devices to obtain accurate and efficient information interactions between humans and machines have gained increasing attention in recent years. A series of soft materials for flexible electronics have been developed to improve device performance in terms of electrical and mechanical properties. Among them, conductive polymer‐based hydrogels (CPHs), which combine the tunable electronic properties of conductive polymers and the soft mechanical properties of hydrogels, are promising candidates for next‐generation wearable electronic devices. This review summarized the material design and preparation of CPHs, and presented the properties of CPHs, including tunable conductivity, outstanding mechanical performance, biocompatibility, self‐healing capability, resistance to freezing, and solution processability. In particular, their emerging applications in flexible electronics devices including flexible supercapacitors, flexible sensors, and biomedical electronics are highlighted. Furthermore, perspectives on existing challenges and opportunities in this field are discussed.
Dead space washout by intentional leakage flow during conventional ventilation of premature infants—an experimental study
Authors: Schöber Martin , Bohnhorst Bettina , Annon‐Eberharter Natalee , Wald Martin
Published: March 2022

Objective

Invasive mechanical ventilation poses a strong risk factor for the development of chronic lung disease in preterm infants. A reduction of the dead space as part of the total breathing volume would reduce the ventilation effort and thereby lower the risk of ventilator‐induced lung injuries. In this experimental study, we compared the efficacy of mechanical dead space washout via uncontrolled and controlled leakage flow in their ability to eliminate CO2 during conventional ventilation in preterm infants.

Methods

Three frequently used neonatal ventilators, operating under standard conventional ventilating parameters, were individually connected to a test lung. To maintain a constant physiological end‐expiratory pCO2 level during ventilation, the test lung was continuously flooded with CO2. A side port in the area of the connector between the endotracheal tube and the flow sensor allowed breathing gas to escape passively or in a second experimental setup, regulated by a pump. Measurements of end‐expiratory pCO2 were taken in both experiments and compared to end‐expiratory pCO2 levels of ventilation without active dead space leakage.

Results

Following dead space washout, a significant reduction of end‐expiratory pCO2 was attained. Under conditions of uncontrolled leakage, the mean decrease was 14.1% while controlled leakage saw a mean reduction of 16.1%.

Conclusion

Washout of dead space by way of leakage flow is an effective method to reduce end‐expiratory pCO2. Both controlled and uncontrolled leakage provide comparable results, but precise regulation of leakage allows for a more stable ventilation by preventing uncontrolled loss of tidal volume during inspiration.
The impact of identifying laryngeal obstruction syndromes on reducing treatment of pediatric asthma: A systematic review
Authors: Zhang Caseng , Hicks Matt , Ospina Maria B. , Martha Vishnu , Alnouri Ghiath , Dennett Liz , Sataloff Robert , Hicks Anne
Published: March 2022

Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) in children is underrecognized. This systematic review characterizes the scientific evidence on the impact of pediatric ILO diagnosis and treatment on asthma medication use. This review, registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020209168), utilized database searches in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science from inception to October 2020. Both experimental and observational studies on ILO and asthma outcomes in patients ≤18 years were included. Population characteristics (sample size, sex, age, and comorbidities) and study outcomes (medication usage and respiratory symptoms) were extracted. The risk of bias was assessed with the National Toxicology Program's Office of Health Assessment and Risk of Bias Rating Tool. Data are presented narratively due to study heterogeneity. Of 1091 studies, 1076 titles and abstracts were screened after duplicate removal. Screening 31 full texts yielded eight pre–post studies. Patients were an average of 14.1 years old, 15% male, and >90% used asthma medication; 40% reported allergies, 30% gastroesophageal reflux, and 20% anxiety or depression. Most patients received at least one intervention, with 75% showing symptomatic improvement and >75% decreasing or stopping asthma medications. Studies were small with a high risk of selection, confounding, and detection bias. Asthma management was not a primary outcome in any of the studies. Overall, ILO patients were often diagnosed with or treated for asthma before ILO diagnosis. Evidence from individual studies suggests that comorbidities including ILO, gastroesophageal reflux, allergies, and anxiety should be considered in pediatric patients with asthma not responsive to medical therapy. Further research is required to determine the proportion of impacted asthma patients.
Adipokinetic hormone signaling regulates cytochrome P450‐mediated chlorantraniliprole sensitivity in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Tan Qi‐Mei , Chen Wei‐wei , Li Hong‐hong , Liao Shu‐cheng , Yi Guo‐qiang , Mei Yong , Luo Jie , Tan Hui‐hua , Li Xue‐Sheng
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) is one of the most destructive and invasive pests worldwide and causes significant economic losses. Intensive and frequent use of insecticides has led to the development of resistance in FAW. Adipokinetic hormone (AKH) have been proven to be involved in insecticide resistance in insects. However, the molecular mechanism underlying chlorantraniliprole resistance mediated by AKH signaling in FAW remains unclear.

RESULTS

The expression of SpfAKHR was highest in male adults and lowest in 1st instar larvae. SpfAKH was expressed the highest in eggs and the lowest in 6th instar larvae. AKH signaling was involved in the sensitivity of FAW to chlorantraniliprole through a toxicological bioassay, and the combination of chlorantraniliprole and bithionol (an inhibitor of key enzymes in the AKH pathway) significantly increased the mortality of FAW. Chlorantraniliprole significantly induced the expression of ten P450s, SpfAKH and SpfAKHR in FAW. RNA interference against SpfAKHR significantly decreased the P450 content, downregulated the expression of three P450 genes (SpfCYP6B50, SpfCYP321A9 and SpfCYP9A58) and inhibited the resistance of FAW to chlorantraniliprole. The topical application of AKH peptide significantly increased the P450 content, upregulated the expression of five P450 genes (SpfCYP321A9, SpfCY321A8, SpfCYP321A10, SpfCYP321A7 and SpfCYP6AB12), and enhanced the survival of FAW against chlorantraniliprole.

CONCLUSIONS

AKH plays an important role in enhancing chlorantraniliprole resistance in FAW by exerting a positive influence on P450 gene expression and P450 content. These results provide valuable insights into insecticide resistance regulation and FAW control strategies. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Local Structure of Amorphous Organotin Sulfide Clusters by Low‐Energy X‐Ray Absorption Fine Structure
Authors: Stellhorn Jens R. , Hayakawa Shinjiro , Klee Benjamin D. , Paulus Benedict , Link Vasco Jonathan , Rinn Niklas , Rojas León Irán , Dehnen Stefanie , Pilgrim Wolf-Christian
Published: March 2022

The local structure of four amorphous organotin sulfide compounds exhibiting nonlinear optical (NLO) properties is investigated by low‐energy X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES and EXAFS). The basic structural motif of a heteroadamantane cluster with different organic substituents is confirmed by the experiments and by comparison with computer simulations of the near‐edge structure. Essential information is obtained on a special role of the nonaromatic but electron‐rich cyclopentadienyl substituents, which are able to affect the structure of the heteroadamantane cluster core. The EXAFS fits also indicate a structural distinction between two groups within these compounds, which exhibit fundamentally different NLO responses: compounds that show a second harmonic generation can be described well using the single‐molecule approach, whereas the compounds exhibiting the generation of a supercontinuum manifest additional structural contributions.
Mass spectrometric study and modeling of the thermodynamic properties in the Gd2O3‐ZrO2‐HfO2 system at high temperatures
Authors: Kablov Eugene N. , Shilov Andrey L. , Stolyarova Valentina L. , Vorozhtcov Viktor A. , Karachevtsev Fedor N. , Lopatin Sergey I. , Shugurov Sergey M.
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Materials based on the Gd2O3‐ZrO2‐HfO2 system are promising for a wide range of high‐temperature technological applications, such as for obtaining thermal barrier coatings in the aviation and space industry, as well as advanced materials in nuclear power applications. Experimental studies of the ceramics based on this system by the Knudsen effusion mass spectrometric method provides such valuable information as the vapor composition over the samples and enables derivation of the thermodynamic functions.

Methods

Samples of ceramics in the Gd2O3‐ZrO2‐HfO2 system were synthesized and analyzed by X‐ray fluorescence and diffraction techniques. The vaporization processes and partial pressures of the vapor species over the samples were obtained by the high‐temperature mass spectrometric method using the ion current comparison method. The derived thermodynamic functions were optimized within the Generalized Lattice Theory of Associated Solutions (GLTAS) approach.

Results

At the temperature of 2600 K, the GdO, ZrO, ZrO2, HfO, and O vapor species were found over the samples, but only for the GdO and ZrO species were accurate experimental data on the partial pressures obtained. In all the ceramic samples, the Gd2O3 activity was determined. On this experimental basis, modeling within the GLTAS approach was performed. It allowed the evaluation of the Gd2O3, ZrO2, and HfO2 activities in the system under study and a rough approximation of the excess Gibbs energy as a function of composition to be obtained.

Conclusions

At 2600 K the Gd2O3‐ZrO2‐HfO2 system is characterized by negative deviations of its thermodynamic properties from the ideal behavior. Consistency of the obtained modeling results indicate reasonable uniformity of the energy parameters of the lattice model derived in calculations of the hafnia‐containing oxide systems, which may be used in further modeling of multicomponent systems.
The use of pseudo‐MRM for a sensitive and selective detection and quantification of polycyclic aromatic compounds by tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Galmiche Mathieu , Rodrigues Anaïs , Motsch Estelle , Delhomme Olivier , François Yannis‐Nicolas , Millet Maurice
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) is a sensitive and selective detection mode for target trace‐level analysis. However, it requires the fragmentation of labile bonds which are not present in molecules such as Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their heterocyclic derivatives (PANHs, PASHs).

Methods

We present the application of an alternative tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) mode called “pseudo‐MRM” for the GCMS/MS analysis of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PACs). This mode is based on the monitoring of transitions with no mass loss between the precursor and the product ion. Pseudo‐MRM peak areas were compared with those of classic MRM on three different mass spectrometers: two triple quadrupoles and an ion trap.

Results

For all non‐polar PACs studied here (PAHs, PANHs and PASHs), the pseudo‐MRM transition was always the most intense. The classic MRM transitions exhibited peak areas 2 to 5 times lower. On the contrary, for the functionalized PACs (oxygenated and nitrated PAHs), classic MRM was favored over pseudo‐MRM. These observations were confirmed on two triple quadrupoles (QqQs), and the real‐world applicability of pseudo‐MRM on QqQs was validated by the successful analysis of Diesel PM. However, a comparison with an ion trap showed that pseudo‐MRM was never favored on that instrument, which caused fragmentation of non‐polar PACs in MS/MS.

Conclusions

The results of this study show an important gain in sensitivity when using pseudo‐MRM instead of MRM for non‐polar PACs on QqQ instruments. The selectivity of MRM is preserved in pseudo‐MRM by applying non‐zero collision energies to which only these non‐polar PACs are resistant, not the isobaric interferences. No interference issue was observed when analyzing Diesel PM, a complex matrix, with our pseudo‐MRM method. Therefore, we advise for a broader use of this MS/MS mode for trace‐level determination of non‐polar PAHs.
Tuberculosis‐immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in HIV‐negative children
Authors: Palamit Apinya , Tovichien Prakarn , Amornsitthiwat Ramida
Published: March 2022

Even though tuberculosis‐immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB‐IRIS) is usually found in HIV‐positive patients receiving antiviral treatment, it can also occur in HIV‐negative patients especially if they have risk factors. We report a unique case of TB‐IRIS in an immunocompetent child presenting with new onset of pleuritic chest pain after receiving anti‐TB drugs. TB‐IRIS should be considered as a differential diagnosis in case of clinical deterioration or appearance of new typical lesions despite appropriate anti‐TB treatment for more than 2 weeks in the absence of persistently active TB or any other alternative causes. This will prevent physicians from misdiagnosis as superimposed infections, treatment failure or TB relapse.
Role of sulfur mineralization and fertilizer source in corn and soybean production systems
Authors: Mahal Navreet K. , Sawyer John E. , Iqbal Javed , Sassman Aaron M. , Mathur Renuka , Castellano Michael J.
Published: March 2022

Sulfur (S) is an important nutrient for plant growth and crop yield. In the northern U.S. Corn Belt, a decrease in atmospheric S deposition and an increase in grain harvest have increased the frequency of S deficiency in corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. Nevertheless, S deficiency remains difficult to predict owing to complex interactions between the production of plant‐available sulfate‐S from soil organic matter (SOM) mineralization and sulfate‐S losses to leaching. Our objective was to measure corn and soybean yield response to four S fertilizers (ammonium sulfate, elemental S, gypsum, and polyhalite) in the 1st year following fertilizer application and in the 2nd (residual) year following fertilizer application in Iowa. Across 4 site‐years, none of the S fertilizer products increased soybean yield. Across 12 site‐years in the 1st year following application, sulfate‐S based fertilizers increased corn yield in 4 site‐years while elemental S had no effect. Across 6 site‐years in the second residual year following application, elemental S, polyhalite, and gypsum increased corn yield in 1 site‐year while ammonium sulfate had no effect. Laboratory incubations confirmed that there was slower production of plant‐available S from elemental compared with sulfate‐based fertilizers, potentially explaining the lack of elemental S effect in the 1st year following application. In contrast to our expectations, there was a weak, but positive relationship between corn yield response to S fertilizer and SOM concentration. Overall, the kinetics of S fertilizer mineralization and solubility appear to affect the magnitude and timing of crop response to S fertilizer.
Facile preparation of superhydrophobic nanorod surfaces through ion‐beam irradiation
Authors: Kang Hyeon‐Ho , Lee Dong‐Hoon
Published: March 2022

Obtaining superhydrophobic surfaces for their application in electronics and flexible wearable devices remains a significant challenge. Most previously reported methods for obtaining superhydrophobic surfaces involve complex and expensive preparation techniques and thus cannot be used for practical applications. Ion‐beam irradiation is a simple and promising method for fabricating superhydrophobic nanostructures on large areas at a low cost. Ion‐beam irradiation using argon and oxygen gases was used to prepare silica nanorod structures on glass substrates. This study is not just a modification of the surface of nanoparticles, but a change in nanoparticle shape. The nanorods were subsequently treated with perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane to obtain superhydrophobicity. The surface of the silica nanorods exhibited a static water contact angle of 153°, indicating superhydrophobicity. The combination of rough structures of silica nanorods and low surface energy resulted in superhydrophobicity. The surface properties were evaluated in detail using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The proposed method is facile, inexpensive, and can be used for the large‐scale production of nanorod structures for potential industrial applications.
Nonparametric bounds in two‐sample summary‐data Mendelian randomization: Some cautionary tales for practice
Authors: Trane Ralph Møller , Kang Hyunseung
Published: March 2022

Recently, in genetic epidemiology, Mendelian randomization (MR) has become a popular approach to estimate causal exposure effects by using single nucleotide polymorphisms from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) as instruments. The most popular type of MR study, a two‐sample summary‐data MR study, relies on having summary statistics from two independent GWAS and using parametric methods for estimation. However, little is understood about using a nonparametric bound‐based analysis, a popular approach in traditional instrumental variables frameworks, to study causal effects in two‐sample MR. In this article, we explore using a nonparametric, bound‐based analysis in two‐sample MR studies, focusing primarily on implications for practice. We also propose a framework to assess how likely one can obtain more informative bounds if we used a different MR design, notably a one‐sample MR design. We conclude by demonstrating our findings through two real data analyses concerning the causal effect of smoking on lung cancer and the causal effect of high cholesterol on heart attacks. Overall, our results suggest that while a bound‐based analysis may be appealing due to its nonparametric nature, it is far more conservative in two‐sample settings than in one‐sample settings to get informative bounds on the causal exposure effect.