bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Drought Tolerant Rice Variety Swarna Shreya in North-eastern Ghat Zone of Odisha through Frontline Demonstration
Authors: Mishra P. J. , Sahoo H. K. , Garnayak L. M. , Roul P. K. , Nagothu U. S. , Patra B. P. , Phonglosa A. , Panda P. K. , Mohanty S.
Published: July 2022

A continuous 3 year demonstration using drought tolerant rice variety Swarna Shreya was carried out in participatory mode in farmers’ field during Kharif season 2019, 2020 and 2021 at Lathipadsa village of Surada block of Ganjam district under north-eastern ghat zone of odisha. Major constraints of traditional rice cultivation are the low productivity in upland areas due to lack of knowledge and partial adoption of recommended package of practices by rice growing farmers. Also because of less water sometime farmers do not take any crop. Therefore, present demonstration programme has been undertaken to popularize/introduce stress tolerant rice var. Swarna Shreya in drought prone and upland areas of Ganjam district of Odisha. An average yield of 38.33 q ha-1 was recorded under demonstration plots as compared to 32.17 q ha-1 in farmers practice plots. The yield improvement due to the improved practices was 18.69 percent over farmers' practice. Average technology gap, extension gap, technology index was 6.67 q ha-1,6.17 q ha-1, 14.81 percent under three year frontline demonstration programme were recorded. The stress tolerant rice variety Swarna Shreya gave higher net return of Indian Rupee (INR) 33500, 40655 and INR 45350 ha-1 as compared to farmers practices with INR 26100, 23520 and 24650 ha- 1 during Kharif season of 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively. The benefit cost ratio (B:C ratio) of rice cultivation under improved practices were found to be 1.95, 2.13 and 2.08 as compared to 1.67, 1.60 and 1.58 under farmers practices.
Comparative Evaluation of Dexmedetomidine, Ketamine & their Combination for Epidural Analgesia in Orthopedic Surgeries of the lower Limb
Authors: Mishra Deeksha , Chakole Vivek
Published: July 2022

Background: Epidural anesthesia is a perioperative pain control treatment that has a variety of applications in anaesthesiology. It could be used as as a primary anaesthetic, although it's most usually utilised as an adjuvant for management of pain.  It could be a one-time shot or a continuous infusion for a long-drawn therapeutic intervention. Apart from the potential for significant analgesia, its use minimises the need for other anaesthetics and analgesics, lowering the risk of adverse effects. It has also been proven to lower the level of cortisol, to facilitate the resumption of bowel function, reduce the risk of Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis in the post-operative phase, while minimizing the duration of institutional stays.

Aim: Comparison and Evaluation of the effect of the drugs dexmedetomidine , ketamine & them together as a combination in addition to bupivacaine, as an adjuvant for intermittent epidural top ups for lower limb orthopaedic surgeries .

Study Design: Prospective observational study.

Place and duration of Study: The study will be conducted over a period of 2 years and 6 months in the department of anaesthesiology, Jawaharlal Nehru medical college and Acharya vinoba bhave rural hospital, wardha.

Methodology: Our prospective, comparitive observational study included 90 patients randomly assigned into 3 sets of 30 each, one was administered dexmedetomidine epidurally, one was given ketamine and one was given their combination epidurally [1]. The quality and duration of analgesia provided by all 3 groups were then compared to find out which of them provides better and prolonged pain relief. Along with analgesia, the other parameters assessed were hemodynamic response, sedation and any other side effects.

Expected Results: We're attempting to establish the hypothesis that the combination of both the drugs is better than dexmedetomidine or ketamine administered individually. It has been proved in various researches that epidural ketamine prolonged the duration of analgesia, [2] but it was less than epidural dexmedetomidine. We expect that the combination would decrease the postoperative rescue analgesics requirements and less hemodynamic alterations hence providing greater patient satisfaction as compared to the two drugs separately.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices among Undergraduate Medical Students Regarding Surgical Correction of Refractive Errors; a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Batool Syedah Kanza , Batool Rabisa , Jamal Kanwal , Sheroze Muhammad Waqaruddin , Ramzan Muhammad Adil , Siddiqui Syeda Afia
Published: July 2022

Aim: This study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding refractive error correction surgeries among undergraduate medical students.

Study Design: In this study cross-sectional study design was used.

Duration and Place of Study: The study was conducted amongst the undergraduate MBBS students studying at Dow Medical College, Karachi. The duration of study was seven months (August, 2019 till February, 2020).

Methods: A sample size of 189 was calculated for the study with confidence level 95% and confidence limit 5%. Data was collected through a validated self-administered questionnaire which was divided in five subsections used to gain information regarding participant’s demographics, knowledge, attitude and practices regarding refractive error surgeries. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS V.22.

Results: In our study 189 students with a mean age of 21±1.8 years were included. Among the participants 112 (59.3%) had refractive errors. Glasses were used by majority 76 (67.9%) of participants for visual correction. Use of refractive error correction methods at all times was reported by 72 (66.7%) participants. Majority of respondents 142 (75.5%) had heard about surgery being used for correction of refractive errors. A large number of students 117 (66%) refused for surgery and fear of the outcomes was one of the reason for this refusal.

Conclusion: We found that majority of the participants were aware about refractive error correction surgeries yet most of them showed unwillingness for these procedures. This negative attitude must be changed to positive in order to enhance the practice for these procedures.
Gender differences in housework and childcare among Japanese workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors:   CORoNaWork Project, Sakuragi Toshihide , Tanaka Rie , Tsuji Mayumi , Tateishi Seiichiro , Hino Ayako , Ogami Akira , Nagata Masako , Matsuda Shinya , Fujino Yoshihisa
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Although gender stereotypes regarding paid work and unpaid work are changing, most wives are responsible for taking care of the family and home in Japan. It is unclear how time spent on housework and childcare has changed between working men and women during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The purpose of this study is to investigate how working men and women's responsibilities for housework and childcare changed during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan depending on work hours, job type, the number of employees in the workplace, and frequency of telecommuting.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis (N = 14,454) was conducted using data from an Internet monitoring study (CORoNa Work Project), which was conducted in December 2020. A multilevel logistic model with nested prefectures of residence was conducted to estimate the odds ratio (OR) for change in time devoted to housework and childcare among men and women adjusting for age, household income, presence of spouse who work, work hours, job type, the number of employees in the workplace, frequency of telecommuting, and the incidence rate of COVID-19 by prefecture.

Results

More women tended to perceive that their time of housework and/or childcare had been changed (increased housework: OR 1.92, 95% CI [1.71–2.16], P < .001; decreased workhours: 1.66 (1.25–2.19), P < .001: increased childcare: OR 1.58, 95% CI [1.29–1.92], P < .001; decreased childcare: 1.11 (0.62–2.00), P = .719).

Conclusions

The time spent by women on housework and childcare changed significantly compared to men during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan.
Ulinastatin promotes macrophage efferocytosis and ameliorates lung inflammation via the ERK5/Mer signaling pathway
Authors: Li Jinju , Shao Rongge , Xie Qiuwen , Qin Ke , Ming ShaoPeng , Xie Yongguo , Du XueKe
Published: July 2022

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a pneumonic response characterized by neutrophil infiltration. Macrophage efferocytosis is the process whereby macrophages remove apoptotic cells, and is required for ALI inflammation to subside. The glycoprotein ulinastatin (UTI) has an anti‐inflammatory effect during the acute stages of ALI, but its effect on efferocytosis and the subinflammatory stage of ALI is unclear. Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) is a key protein in efferocytosis, and we thus hypothesized that it may be activated by UTI to regulate efferocytosis and the resolution of pneumonia. To test this hypothesis, here we monitored phagocytosis of macrophages through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Pulmonary edema, neutrophil infiltration, protein exudation, and inflammatory factor regression were observed on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 in vivo. RAW264.7 cells were pretreated with different concentrations of UTI and ERK5 inhibitors, and the expression of tyrosine‐protein kinase Mer (Mer) protein on macrophage membrane was detected. UTI increased the phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils by macrophages in vitro and in vivo, and promoted the resolution of pneumonia. The protein expression of ERK5 and Mer increased with UTI concentration, while the expression of Mer was down‐regulated by ERK5 inhibitors. Therefore, our results suggest that UTI enhances efferocytosis and reduces lung inflammation and injury through the ERK5/Mer signaling pathway, which may be one of the targets of UTI in the treatment of lung injury.
Guanabenz ameliorates disease in vanishing white matter mice in contrast to sephin1
Authors: Witkamp Diede , Oudejans Ellen , Hu‐A‐Ng Gino V. , Hoogterp Leoni , Krzywańska Aleksandra M. , Žnidaršič Milo , Marinus Kevin , de Veij Mestdagh Christina F. , Bartelink Imke , Bugiani Marianna , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Abbink Truus E. M.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Vanishing white matter (VWM) is a leukodystrophy, characterized by stress‐sensitive neurological deterioration and premature death. It is currently without curative treatment. It is caused by bi‐allelic pathogenic variants in the genes encoding eukaryotic initiation factor 2B (eIF2B). eIF2B is essential for the regulation of the integrated stress response (ISR), a physiological response to cellular stress. Preclinical studies on VWM mouse models revealed that deregulated ISR is key in the pathophysiology of VWM and an effective treatment target. Guanabenz, an α2‐adrenergic agonist, attenuates the ISR and has beneficial effects on VWM neuropathology. The current study aimed at elucidating guanabenz's disease‐modifying potential and mechanism of action in VWM mice. Sephin1, an ISR‐modulating guanabenz analog without α2‐adrenergic agonistic properties, was included to separate effects on the ISR from α2‐adrenergic effects.

Methods

Wild‐type and VWM mice were subjected to placebo, guanabenz or sephin1 treatments. Effects on clinical signs, neuropathology, and ISR deregulation were determined. Guanabenz's and sephin1's ISR‐modifying effects were tested in cultured cells that expressed or lacked the α2‐adrenergic receptor.

Results

Guanabenz improved clinical signs, neuropathological hallmarks, and ISR regulation in VWM mice, but sephin1 did not. Guanabenz's effects on the ISR in VWM mice were not replicated in cell cultures and the contribution of α2‐adrenergic effects on the deregulated ISR could therefore not be assessed.

Interpretation

Guanabenz proved itself as a viable treatment option for VWM. The exact mechanism through which guanabenz exerts its ameliorating impact on VWM requires further studies. Sephin1 is not simply a guanabenz replacement without α2‐adrenergic effects.
Integrated Triboelectric‐Electromagnetic‐Piezoelectric Self‐Rebounding Energy Harvester for Human Energy Harvesting
Authors: Xiao Yuan , Niu Mingyuan , Yang Leipeng , Liu Jinchao , Lv Xiaolai , Yang Pengcheng
Published: July 2022

A self‐rebounded hybrid energy harvester from human foot motion is investigated. The hybrid energy harvester integrates electromagnetic generators (EMG), piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENG), and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) between the two magnetic poles. The harvester uses a pair of mutually exclusive magnetic poles instead of spring‐mass to realize reciprocating motion, which is designed to grow 6 cm, width 5 cm, and height 4 cm. Under low frequency (4 Hz), EMG, PENG, and TENG can deliver a high output power of 6.49 mW, 0.168 µW, and 90.72 µW, respectively. After charging the energy harvesting circuit, the capacitor can continuously output a stable 5 V DC voltage, and the charging performance of the harvester is better than that of a single nanogenerator unit. Besides, the harvester can continuously light up 80 LED lights. After carrying the harvester and jogging for a certain distance, a pedometer module is powered. It shows that the designed self‐rebounding human motion foot energy harvester has certain feasibility in the practical application of wearable devices. The device can be easily assembled under the shoes, demonstrating the great application prospects of the harvester as a sustainable self‐power device for wearable and portable electronics.
Synthesis of C‐Aryl Glycosides via Ru‐Catalyzed Remote C−H Glycosylation of 8‐Aminoquinoline Amides
Authors: Shi Wei‐Yu , Li Hu‐Yi , Gou Xue‐Ya , Luan Yu‐Yong , Zheng Nian , Niu Zhi‐Jie , Zhang Zhe , Liu Xue‐Yuan , Liang Yong‐Min
Published: July 2022

C‐Aryl glycoside is a class of structural motifs with important medicinal value. Herein, a remote C−H glycosylation strategy enabled by Ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed with mostly α‐stereoselectivity is described. This approach exhibits great functional group compatibility with various glycosides and arylamides. A series of experiments provided strong evidence for the free radical mechanism and reversible C−H activation process, and a possible mechanism was proposed.

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Ultralow‐Power Atomic‐Scale Tin Transistor with Gate Potential in Millivolt
Authors: Xie Fangqing , Ducry Fabian , Luisier Mathieu , Leuthold Juerg , Schimmel Thomas
Published: July 2022

After decades of continuous scaling, further advancement of complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) technology across the entire spectrum of computing applications is today limited by power dissipation, which scales with the square of the supply voltage. Here, an atomic‐scale tin transistor is demonstrated to perform conductive switching between bistable configurations with on/off potentials ≤2.5 mV in magnitude. In addition to the low operation voltage, the channel length of the transistor is determined experimentally and with density‐functional theory to be ≤1 nm because the atoms instead of electrons are information carriers in this device. The conductance at on‐states of the bistable configurations varies between 1.2 G0 to 197 G0 (G0 = 2e2 h−1, e stands for the electron charge and h for Planck's constant). Thus, the device can supply driving current from 1 to ≈375 µA in magnitude for logic circuits with the drain‐source dc voltage at decades of millivolts. The switching frequency of the atomic‐scale tin transistor has reached 2047 Hz. Furthermore, the on/off potentials in millivolts can reduce the energy consumption in the interconnects of integrated circuits at least by ≈400 times. Therefore, the atomic‐scale tin transistor has prospects in digital circuits with ultralow‐power dissipation and can contribute to the sustainability of modern society.
Levels of tumor markers CEA/CA 19–9 in serum and peritoneal lavage predict postoperative recurrence in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Hata Tatsuo , Chiba Kazuharu , Mizuma Masamichi , Masuda Kunihiro , Ohtsuka Hideo , Nakagawa Kei , Morikawa Takanori , Hayashi Hiroki , Motoi Fuyuhiko , Unno Michiaki
Published: July 2022

Aim

This study aimed to clarify the usefulness of tumor markers from peritoneal lavage in selecting patients with a high risk of recurrence and predicting site‐specific recurrence in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Methods

The levels of serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19–9 (sCEA/sCA 19–9) and paired peritoneal lavage CEA and CA 19–9 (pCEA/pCA 19–9) were measured in 90 patients with pancreatic cancer who underwent surgery. Using the cutoff values determined by maximally selected rank statistics for disease‐free survival (DFS), the risk of recurrence and its patterns were evaluated in combination with different markers and different test specimens.

Results

In univariate and multivariate analysis, an elevated pCA 19–9 level (>1.3 U/mL) was an independent prognostic marker for both DFS (hazard ratio [HR], 2.391; P = .018) and overall survival (HR, 3.194; P = .033). Combination analyses contributed to further stratification of a very high risk of recurrence. Of the 58 patients with resectable pancreatic cancer who underwent curative resection, elevated pCA19–9 was also associated with inferior DFS and overall survival (OS). Patients with elevated pCA 19–9 levels were more likely to have an earlier onset of peritoneal recurrence than those with normal pCA 19–9 levels (P = .048, Gehan–Breslow–Wilcoxon test).

Conclusion

pCA 19–9 is a reliable marker for predicting postoperative recurrence in patients with pancreatic cancer after surgery. Further risk stratification can be achieved by using combination assays. The combination of pCA 19–9 and sCA19–9 also serves as a predictor of recurrence site‐specific recurrence.
Broadening the phenotypic spectrum of EVEN‐PLUS syndrome through identification of HSPA9 pathogenic variants in the original EVE dysplasia family and two sibs with milder facial phenotype
Authors: Pacio‐Miguez Marta , Parrón‐Pajares Manuel , Gordon Christopher T. , Santos‐Simarro Fernando , Rodríguez Jiménez Carmen , Mena Rocio , Rueda Arenas Inmaculada , F. Montaño Victoria Eugenia , Fernández María , Solís Mario , del Pozo Ángela , Amiel Jeanne , García‐Miñaur Sixto , Palomares‐Bralo María
Published: July 2022

EVEN‐PLUS syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the mitochondrial chaperone called mortalin, encoded by HSPA9. This genetic disorder, presenting with several overlapping features with CODAS syndrome, is characterized by the involvement of the Epiphyses, Vertebrae, Ears, and Nose (EVEN), PLUS associated findings. Only five individuals presenting with the EVEN‐PLUS phenotype and biallelic variants in HSPA9 have been published. Here, we expand the phenotypic and molecular spectrum associated with this disorder, reporting two sibs with a milder phenotype and compound heterozygous pathogenic variants (a recurrent variant and a novel one). Also, we confirm a homozygous pathogenic variant in the family originally reported as EVE dysplasia.
Stimuli‐Responsive Metal Complexes for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Amarsy Ivanna , Papot Sébastien , Gasser Gilles
Published: July 2022

Metal‐based compounds have been widely used for biomedical applications. Their unique characteristics make them attractive for both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. However, numerous issues including toxicity, poor aqueous solubility, and unfavorable biodistribution hamper their widespread use. To overcome these drawbacks, the concept of metal‐based prodrugs emerged. This field is particularly developed for applications in oncology. More precisely, tumor‐associated stimuli (e.g., pH variation, redox activity, enzyme overexpression, etc.) have been exploited to trigger the selective delivery of active metal‐based drugs to the tumor site. The main advances in this area are discussed in this Review.
Dual Nickel/Photoredox‐Catalyzed Site‐Selective Cross‐Coupling of 1,2‐Bis‐Boronic Esters Enabled by 1,2‐Boron Shifts
Authors: Wang Hui , Han Wangyujing , Noble Adam , Aggarwal Varinder K.
Published: July 2022

Site‐selective transition‐metal‐catalyzed mono‐deboronative cross‐couplings of 1,2‐bis‐boronic esters are valuable methods for the synthesis of functionalized organoboron compounds. However, such cross‐couplings are limited to reaction of the sterically less hindered primary boronic ester. Herein, we report a nickel/photoredox‐catalyzed mono‐deboronative arylation of 1,2‐bis‐boronic esters that is selective for coupling of the more sterically hindered secondary/tertiary position. This is achieved by taking advantage of a 1,2‐boron shift of primary β‐boryl radicals to the thermodynamically favored secondary/tertiary radicals, which are subsequently intercepted by the nickel catalyst to enable arylation. The mild conditions are amenable to a broad range of aryl halides to give β‐aryl boronic ester products in good yields and with high regioselectivity. This method also allows stereodivergent coupling of cycliccis‐1,2‐bis‐boronic esters to givetrans‐substituted products.
Heterogenised Molecular Catalysts for Sustainable Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Grammatico Domenico , Bagnall Andrew J. , Riccardi Ludovico , Fontecave Marc , Su Bao‐Lian , Billon Laurent
Published: July 2022

There has been a rapid rise in interest regarding the advantages of support materials to protect and immobilise molecular catalysts for the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) in order to overcome the weaknesses of many well‐known catalysts in terms of their stability and selectivity. In this Review, the state of the art of different catalyst‐support systems for the CO2RR is discussed with the intention of leading towards standard benchmarking for comparison of such systems across the most relevant supports and immobilisation strategies, taking into account these multiple pertinent metrics, and also enabling clearer consideration of the necessary steps for further progress. The most promising support systems are described, along with a final note on the need for developing more advanced experimental and computational techniques to aid the rational design principles that are prerequisite to prospective industrial upscaling.
Artificial neural network prediction of thermal and mechanical properties forBi2O3‐polybenzoxazinenanocomposites
Authors: Al Hassan Mohamadou , Derradji Mehdi , Ali Mohsen M. M. , Rawashdeh Abdullah , Wang Jun , Pan Zhong‐Cheng , Liu Wen‐Bin
Published: July 2022

Polybenzoxazine (BA‐a) based nanocomposites with varying amounts of Bi2O3particles reinforcement (10, 20, and 30 wt%) were produced. The structures of the Bi2O3before and after surface silane treatment, as well as the structures of the BA‐a matrix and its nanocomposites, were all evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The thermal stability of the samples was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the resistance to bending was studied using the three‐point bending test. Then, an artificial neural network approach was used to estimate the thermal degradation and flexural strengths of the polybenzoxazine matrix and its nanocomposites. The results of the TGA analysis showed that when Bi2O3content increased, the char yield (Yc) of the nanocomposites also increased from 27.98% to 43.53% for the experimental data and from 27.95% to 43 0.57% for the prediction, with allSDs less than 0.02. Moreover, both the experimental and predicted values of the flexural strengths for the unfilled BA‐a displayed 100.40 and 102.96 MPa, respectively and these values increased to 119.65 and 114.95 MPa when 10 wt% of fillers were incorporated into the matrix. However, for higher filler contents, 20 and 30 wt%, these values decreased to 112.94 and 108.01 MPa for the experiments, and 106.35 and 103.20 MPa for the prediction, respectively. The very small deviations (<0.05) between the experimental and predicted values demonstrated that the prediction approach using the artificial neural network is reliable and accurate.
Hybrid Photoresponsive/Biocatalytic Micro‐ and Nanoswimmers
Authors: Khezri Bahareh , Villa Katherine
Published: July 2022

Micro/nano biomimetic systems that convert energy from the surroundings into mechanical motion have emerged as promising tools to enhance the efficiencies of different biomedical and environmental processes. The inclusion of multiple engines into the same device has become a promising strategy to achieve dual/triple stimuli responses. Such hybrid micro/nanoswimmers combining different propulsion forces exhibit advanced motion behaviors and different physical features that are interesting not only to achieve strong propulsion capabilities in complex environments but also to modulate their movement according to the intended use. The development of hybrid systems that can be actuated by both light and biocompatible fuels is of particular interest. This minireview covers the main types of photoactive/biocatalytic micro/nanoswimmers developed so far. Their main photoresponsive and enzymatic components are discussed along with the most representative designs. The applicability of such hybrid machines for analyte sensing, antibacterial and therapeutical uses is also described. The remaining challenges and opportunities are then explored.
Enhancing the Interfacial Stability of High‐Energy Si/Graphite||LiNi0.88Co0.09Mn0.03O2 Batteries Employing a Dual‐Anion Ionic Liquid‐based Electrolyte
Authors: Fang Shan , Wu Fanglin , Zarrabeitia Maider , Kuenzel Matthias , Roscher Daniel , Gao Xinpei , Kim Jae‐Kwang , Kim Guk‐Tae , Passerini Stefano
Published: July 2022

The poorly flammable room‐temperature ionic liquid‐based electrolyte composed of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and N‐butyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (Pyr14FSI) with fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) as an additive is investigated towards its compatibility with the LiNi0.88Co0.09Mn0.03O2 (NCM88) cathode and a high‐capacity Si/graphite (SiG) anode, revealing a remarkably stable performance in lithium‐ion cells. Interestingly, this dual‐anion electrolyte with FEC additive forms a stable electrode‐electrolyte interphase on both sides, which suppresses the morphological degradation of the electrode materials and continuous electrolyte decomposition. Consequently, lithium‐ion cells using such dual‐anion ionic liquid‐based electrolyte display significantly improved cycling stability compared to conventional carbonate ester‐based electrolyte, achieving a high specific energy of 385 Wh kg−1 (based on both cathode and anode active materials weight) with a capacity retention of 74 % after 200 cycles at 0.2 C, demonstrating the possibility to realize safe and high energy density LIBs.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of 3D constructs engineered with human iPSC‐derived chondrocytes in gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel
Authors: Agten Hannah , Van Hoven Inge , Viseu Samuel R. , Van Hoorick Jasper , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Luyten Frank P. , Bloemen Veerle
Published: July 2022

Articular cartilage defects have limited healing potential and, when left untreated, can lead to osteoarthritis. Tissue engineering focuses on regenerating the damaged joint surface, preferably in an early stage. Here, we investigate the regenerative potential of three‐dimensional (3D) constructs consisting of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived chondrocytes in gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel for stable hyaline cartilage production. iPSC‐derived chondrocytes are encapsulated in GelMA hydrogel at low (1 × 107 ml−1) and high (2 × 107 ml−1) density. In a conventional medium, GelMA hydrogel supports the chondrocyte phenotype, as opposed to cells cultured in 3D in absence of hydrogel. Moreover, encapsulated iPSC‐derived chondrocytes preserve their in vivo matrix formation capacity after 21 days in vitro. In differentiation medium, hyaline cartilage‐like tissue forms after 21 days, demonstrated by highly sulfated glycosaminoglycans and collagen type II. Matrix deposition is delayed at low encapsulation density, corroborating with lower transcript levels of COL2A1. An ectopic assay in nude mice demonstrates further maturation of the matrix deposited in vitro. Direct ectopic implantation of iPSC‐derived chondrocyte‐laden GelMA, without in vitro priming, also generates hyaline cartilage‐like tissue, albeit less mature. Since it is unclear what maturity upon implantation is desired for joint surface regeneration, this is an attractive technology to generate immature and more mature hyaline cartilage‐like tissue.
Does climate change surprise the profitability of energy firms? Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Cao Ming , Zhang Fan , Li Jianglong , Meng Guanfei
Published: July 2022

The energy sector matters the sustainable development directly and is sensitive to climate change. A few empirical studies concentrate on how climate change influences firm performance. Climate change brings higher production costs and lower efficiency on the supply side and leads to beneficial sale performance and improves profit. However, it is ambiguous to the relationship of supply–demand and revenue‐cost levels, and their change is not consistent. Using panel data of 99 China‐listed firms active in the energy sector over the period 2000–2020, this study aims to identify the causal relation between climate change and the profitability of energy firms while controlling for firm‐specific and energy market‐related factors. The quantile regression results show that temperature deviation (TDEV) positively impacts the profitability of energy firms, and this impact varies at different quantiles of the profitability distribution. These findings remain unchanged by four robustness checks. Moreover, mechanism results indicate that revenue and cost have different interaction effects on the causal relation. The findings of this study can provide forward‐thinking expectations and assess climatic adaptation and risks, particularly inspired stakeholder engagements.
Construction and validation of a prognostic model based on 11 lymph node metastasis‐related genes for overall survival in endometrial cancer
Authors: Wu Hong , Feng Haiqin , Miao Xiaoli , Ma Jiancai , Liu Cairu , Zhang Lina , Yang Liping
Published: July 2022

Background

Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in female reproductive system. The incidence of lymph node metastasis (LNM) is only about 10% in clinically suspected early‐stage EC patients. Discovering prognostic models and effective biomarkers for early diagnosis is important to reduce the mortality rate.

Methods

A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was conducted to identify the characteristic dimension decrease and distinguish porgnostic LNM related genes signature. Subsequently, a novel prognosis‐related nomogram was constructed to predict overall survival (OS). Survival analysis was carried out to explore the individual prognostic significance of the risk model and key gene was validated in vitro.

Results

In total, 89 lymph node related genes (LRGs) were identified. Based on the LASSO Cox regression, 11 genes were selected for the development of a risk evaluation model. The Kaplan–Meier curve indicated that patients in the low‐risk group had considerably better OS (p = 3.583e−08). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of this model was 0.718 at 5 years of OS. Then, we developed an OS‐associated nomogram that included the risk score and clinicopathological features. The concordance index of the nomogram was 0.769. The survival verification performed in three subgroups from the nomogram demonstrated the validity of the model. The AUC of the nomogram was 0.787 at 5 years OS. Proliferation and metastasis of HMGB3 were explored in EC cell line. External validation with 30 patients in our hospital showed that patients with low‐risk scores had a longer OS (p‐value = 0.03). Finally, we revealed that the most frequently mutated genes in the low‐risk and high‐risk groups are PTEN and TP53, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that LNM plays an important role in the prognosis, and HMGB3 was potential as a biomarker for EC patients.
Modifying Spinel Precursors for Highly Active and Stable Ni‐based CO2 Methanation Catalysts
Authors: Weber Dennis , Wadlinger Katja M. , Heinlein Maximilian M. , Franken Tanja
Published: July 2022

In CO2 methanation, spinel phases are often considered as undesirable leading to deactivation. However, they can also be considered as well‐dispersed solid solutions suitable as catalyst precursors leading to the formation of highly active and finely dispersed active sites. Though, spinels such as NiAl2O4, which form when Ni/Al2O3 supported catalysts are used, require high reduction temperatures to become active. To obtain a suitable catalyst precursor, the reducibility of such spinels must be improved so that it can be activated under conventional conditions. The undesirable spinel phase is modified by introducing manganese, known to distort the spinel structure, to form Ni0.9MnxAl2‐xO4 (0≤x≤2) as a new catalyst precursor. These exhibit significantly improved reducibility at low temperatures. By adjusting the manganese content, a methane yield of 38.7 % was achieved at 350 °C under the conditions used, which is more than twice that of the supported Ni/Al2O3 reference catalyst (SPP2080‐IMRC).
Single Atom Catalysts: What Matters Most, the Active Site or The Surrounding?
Authors: Di Liberto Giovanni , Cipriano Luis A. , Pacchioni Gianfranco
Published: July 2022

Single atom catalysts (SACs) consist of isolated metal atoms stabilized on a solid support. The name suggests that the catalytic activity is due to the nature of the metal atom, but of course the interaction with the substrate plays a role as well. But what is more important? The metal atom or its surrounding? To answer this question, we have performed numerical experiments based on density functional theory (DFT). 24 transition metal atoms have been incorporated in Nitrogen‐doped graphene, and the catalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has been studied changing the metal and keeping the N‐doped graphene matrix fixed. Then, one specific atom, Pt, has been embedded in the same matrix but the nitrogen neighbors of Pt have been systematically replaced by carbon or oxygen atoms generating more than 20 structures. The HER has thus been studied by keeping the metal center fixed but changing the surrounding. It turns out that the same great variability in chemical behavior can be achieved by changing the active site or the surrounding environment. This shows the importance of the local coordination in determining the catalytic activity. The consequences of this conclusion for modeling studies of SACs are discussed.
Pathophysiology and therapeutic advances in myeloma bone disease
Authors: Zhang Fujing , Zhuang Junling
Published: July 2022

Bone disease is the most common complication in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), and it may lead to skeletal‐related events (SREs) such as bone pain, pathological fractures, and spinal cord compression, which impair a patients' quality of life and survival. The pathogenesis of myeloma bone disease (MBD) involves disruption of bone reconstitution balance including excessive activation of osteoclasts, inhibition of osteoblasts, and participation of osteocytes and bone marrow stromal cells. Various factors, such as the receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG), dickkopf‐1 (DKK‐1), sclerostin, and activin‐A, are involved in the development of MBD. Bisphosphonates and the anti‐RANKL antibody denosumab are currently the main treatment options for MBD, delaying the onset of SREs. Denosumab is preferred in patients with MM and renal dysfunction. Although effective drugs have been approved, antimyeloma therapy is the most important method for controlling bone disease.
Current State of [Fe]‐Hydrogenase and Its Biomimetic Models
Authors: Wang Chao , Lai Zhenli , Huang Gangfeng , Pan Hui‐Jie
Published: July 2022

[Fe]‐hydrogenase, the third type of natural hydrogenase, is capable to heterolytically activate hydrogen molecule and transfer the resulting hydride to an unsaturated substrate, making it a promising hydrogenation catalyst. Over the last three decades, fruitful results on this enzyme have been achieved. In this review, we have summarized the major progresses about this enzyme including its structural characterisation, catalytic mechanism, cofactor biosynthesis, mimetic model development as well as artificial enzymes construction. In the meanwhile, challenges and opportunities of this enzyme and its mimetic systems in the application of synthetic chemistry and others are discussed.
Ultrasonic propagation in high‐concentration TiO2 slurries for photocatalytic reactors
Authors: Cid Lucía del C. , Vera Claudia M. C. , Sorichetti Patricio A.
Published: July 2022

This work reports measurements of the speed of sound and ultrasonic attenuation in high concentration (up to 3 g · L−1) aqueous TiO2 slurries close to neutral pH. Measurements were made at frequencies of 1675, 5545, and 9340 kHz using ultrasonic transducers submerged in the slurry. The experimental setup may be applied to slurries in practical reactors while in operation. Within an experimental uncertainty of ±0.5 m · s−1, the speed of sound in the slurry was the same as in pure water, at all the studied catalyst concentrations and frequencies. The excess ultrasonic attenuation with respect to pure water increases linearly with the catalyst concentration and is inversely proportional to the square of the excitation frequency. This indicates that viscous and thermal acoustic losses predominate over scattering. For TiO2 concentrations in the range of 0.15–3 g · L−1, the catalyst concentration in the slurry may be estimated as a linear function of the excess ultrasonic attenuation, with an uncertainty of 0.1 g · L−1.
Synthesis of Hierarchical‐Porous Fluorinated Metal–Organic Frameworks with Superior Toluene Adsorption Properties
Authors: Wang Hao , Lu Shuangchun , Liu Qingling , Han Rui , Lu Xuebin , Song Chunfeng , Ji Na , Ma Degang
Published: July 2022

Constructing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with high volatile organic compounds (VOCs) adsorption capacity and excellent water resistance remain challenging. Herein, a monocarboxylic acid‐assisted mixed ligands strategy was designed to synthesize a novel fluorinated MOFs, MIL‐53 (Al). The monocarboxylic acid promoted crystallization and produced abundant crystal defects, which increased pore volume. Moreover, the competitive coordination between tetrafluoroterephthalic acid and 1,4‐dicarboxybenzene was moderated by monocarboxylic modulators, significantly improving the hydrophobicity. The toluene uptake of the optimal sample reached 254.85 mg g−1 under humid conditions, increased by 33.56 % of MIL‐53(Al), and the QWet/QDry (the ratio of adsorption quality under wet to adsorption quality under dry) was 0.92, remarkably surpassing that of origin MIL‐53 (0.72). The recycle experiment showed superior reusability with no performance degradation after 10 recycle under RH=50 % (relative humidity). The adsorptive kinetic and thermodynamic analysis proves that the adsorption process is controlled by surface mono‐layer adsorption and pore diffusion. The fluorine group affects the internal diffusion, which weakens the transfer rate. This strategy opens a new prospect of obtaining hierarchical functional MOFs for meeting the VOCs uptake under the practical application.
A Prospective Life Cycle Assessment of Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to Selective Formic Acid and Ethylene
Authors: Ai Ling , Ng Sue‐Faye , Ong Wee‐Jun
Published: July 2022

Converting CO2 into valuable C1–C2 chemicals through electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) has potential to remedy the ever‐increasing climate problems owing to the intensification of industrial activity. In this work, cradle‐to‐gate life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed to quantify the environmental impacts of formic acid (FA) and ethylene production through ECR benchmarked with the conventional processes. At the midpoint level, global warming potential (GWP) effects of FA and ethylene production through ECR recorded 5.6 and 1.6‐times that of the conventional process, respectively. Although ECR currently has limited environmental benefits, the incorporation of hydropower has vast potential after evaluating four sustainable electricity sources, namely hydropower, wind, solar, and biomass. Notably, ECR to FA recorded a 24 % reduction in petrochemical usage. For ethylene production, human health damage, ecosystem damage, and petrochemical use were reduced by 67, 94, and 110 %, respectively. Sensitivity analysis indicated that a sustainable energy supply chain for ECR will accelerate the development of a circular economy.
Food neophobia as a mechanism of change in video‐delivered cognitive‐behavioral therapy for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: A case study
Authors: Burton Murray Helen , Becker Kendra R. , Breithaupt Lauren , Dreier Melissa J. , Eddy Kamryn T. , Thomas Jennifer J.
Published: July 2022

Objective

The mechanisms through which cognitive‐behavioral therapies (CBTs) for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) may work have yet to be elucidated. To inform future treatment revisions to increase parsimony and potency of CBT for ARFID (CBT‐AR), we evaluated change in food neophobia during CBT‐AR treatment of a sensory sensitivity ARFID presentation via a single case study.

Method

An adolescent male completed 21, twice‐weekly sessions of CBT‐AR via live video delivery. From pre‐ to mid‐ to post‐treatment and at 2‐month follow‐up, we calculated percent change in food neophobia and ARFID symptom severity measures. Via visual inspection, we explored trajectories of week‐by‐week food neophobia in relation to clinical improvements (e.g., when the patient incorporated foods into daily life).

Results

By post‐treatment, the patient achieved reductions across food neophobia (45%), and ARFID severity (53–57%) measures and no longer met criteria for ARFID, with sustained improvement at 2‐month follow‐up. Via visual inspection of week‐by‐week food neophobia trajectories, we identified that decreases occurred after mid‐treatment and were associated with incorporation of a food directly tied to the patient's main treatment motivation.

Discussion

This study provides hypothesis‐generating findings on candidate CBT‐AR mechanisms, showing that changes in food neophobia were related to food exposures most connected to the patient's treatment motivations.

Public significance

Cognitive‐behavioral therapies (CBTs) can be effective for treating avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). However, we do not yet have evidence to show how they work. This report of a single patient shows that willingness to try new foods (i.e., food neophobia), changed the most when the patient experienced a clinical improvement most relevant to his motivation for seeking treatment.
Genomic dynamics of brown trout populations released to a novel environment
Authors: Kurland Sara , Rafati Nima , Ryman Nils , Laikre Linda
Published: July 2022

Population translocations occur for a variety of reasons, from displacement due to climate change to human‐induced transfers. Such actions have adverse effects on genetic variation and understanding their microevolutionary consequences requires monitoring. Here, we return to an experimental release of brown trout (Salmo trutta) in order to monitor the genomic effects of population translocations. In 1979, fish from each of two genetically (FST = 0.16) and ecologically separate populations were simultaneously released, at one point in time, to a lake system previously void of brown trout. Here, whole‐genome sequencing of pooled DNA (Pool‐seq) is used to characterize diversity within and divergence between the introduced populations and fish inhabiting two lakes downstream of the release sites, sampled 30 years later (c. 5 generations). Present results suggest that while extensive hybridization has occurred, the two introduced populations are unequally represented in the lakes downstream of the release sites. One population, which is ecologically resident in its original habitat, mainly contributes to the lake closest to the release site. The other population, migratory in its natal habitat, is genetically more represented in the lake further downstream. Genomic regions putatively under directional selection in the new habitat are identified, where allele frequencies in both established populations are more similar to the introduced population stemming from a resident population than the migratory one. Results suggest that the microevolutionary consequences of population translocations, for example, hybridization and adaptation, can be rapid and that Pool‐seq can be used as an initial tool to monitor genome‐wide effects.
Habitat use of the white‐headed langurs in limestone forest of Southwest Guangxi, China: Seasonality and group size effects
Authors: Liu Fengyan , Li Youbang , Zhang Kechu , Liang Jipeng , Nong Dengpan , Huang Zhonghao
Published: July 2022

Understanding how animals cope with habitat‐specific environmental factors can assist in species conservation management. We studied the habitat use of four groups (two large and two small groups) of white‐headed langurs (Trachypithecus leucocephalus) living in the forest of southwest Guangxi, China between September 2016 and February 2017 via instantaneous scan sampling. Our results showed that the langurs primarily used hillsides (55.91% ± 6.47%), followed by cliffs (29.70% ± 5.48%), hilltops (7.26% ± 3.55%), flat zones (6.99% ± 6.58%), and farmlands (0.14% ± 0.28%). The langurs moved most frequently on hillsides (49.35% ± 6.97%) and cliffs (35.60% ± 9.17%). The hillsides were more frequently used (66.94% ± 7.86%) during feeding, and the langurs increased the use of hilltops during the rainy season, and the use of cliffs in the dry season. The langurs frequently rested on hillsides (49.75% ± 8.16%) and cliffs (38.93% ± 8.02%). The larger langur group used cliffs more frequently when moving and resting, whereas the small langur group used hillsides more frequently while resting. Langurs in all groups avoided the flat zones for feeding. Their use of habitat reflected the balancing of foraging needs, thermoregulation, and predator avoidance. We conclude that the ecological factors are determinants of habitat use for white‐headed langurs. Our findings suggest that conservation efforts should focus on protecting the vegetation on the hillsides and restoring the vegetation on the flat zones.