bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Programming Synaptic Resistor Circuit for Intelligent Systems
Authors: Shaffer Christopher M. , Deo Atharva , Tudor Andrew , Shenoy Rahul , Danesh Cameron D. , Nathan Dhruva , Gamble Lawren L. , Inman Daniel J. , Chen Yong
Published: May 2021

Unlike artificial intelligent systems based on computers which have to be programmed for specific tasks, the human brain “self‐programs” in real time to create new tactics and adapt to arbitrary environments. Computers embedded in artificial intelligent systems execute arbitrary signal‐processing algorithms to outperform humans at specific tasks, but without the real‐time self‐programming functionality, they are preprogrammed by humans, fail in unpredictable environments beyond their preprogrammed domains, and lack general intelligence in arbitrary environments. Herein, a synaptic resistor circuit that self‐programs in arbitrary and unpredictable environments in real time is demonstrated. By integrating the synaptic signal processing, memory, and correlative learning functions in each synaptic resistor, the synaptic resistor circuit processes signals and self‐programs the circuit concurrently in real time with an energy efficiency about six orders higher than those of computers. In comparison with humans and a preprogrammed computer, the self‐programming synaptic resistor circuit dynamically modifies its algorithm to control a morphing wing in an unpredictable aerodynamic environment to improve its performance function with superior self‐programming speeds and accuracy. The synaptic resistor circuits potentially circumvent the fundamental limitations of computers, leading to a new intelligent platform with real‐time self‐programming functionality for artificial general intelligence.
Feasibility Study on Subcutaneously Implanted Devices in Male Rodents for Cardiovascular Assessment Through Near‐Field Communication Interface
Authors: Rosa Bruno Miguel Gil , Anastasova Salzitsa , Yang Guang-Zhong
Published: May 2021

Monitoring of intrabody cardiovascular parameters can benefit from implantation of miniature devices close to anatomical targets, thereby surpassing signal attenuation problems related to the propagation toward body surface while allowing localized sensing at the target site with higher precision. With proper electronic miniaturization, packaging, robustness, and power consumption reduction, such devices can harvest enough energy from the surrounding environment for proper operation. Herein, a near‐field communication (NFC)‐powered implantable device with acquisition channels for electrocardiogram, arterial pulse, and temperature measurements is introduced. It has been successfully deployed inside rodents for a 72‐h trial period to assess external powering and data communication in living animals. Experimental results obtained by this device demonstrate the potential for providing more reliable diagnostic information than that of external wearable devices.
Musculoskeletal injury symptoms among hired Latinx child farmworkers in North Carolina
Authors: Quandt Sara A. , Arnold Taylor J. , Talton Jennifer W. , Miles Christopher M. , Mora Dana C. , Arcury Thomas A. , Daniel Stephanie S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Although children 10–17 years can be hired to work in agriculture, little research has addressed possible musculoskeletal injuries. Children may be at particular risk for these injuries because of the repetitive and load bearing nature of work tasks. Existing research relies on child workers to self‐report musculoskeletal injuries.

Methods

In 2017, 202 Latinx child farmworkers ages 10–17 employed across North Carolina completed survey interviews. In 2018, 145 of these children (94 [64.8%] current farmworkers) completed a physical examination and second interview. The examination obtained findings for upper and lower extremity as well as back injuries.

Results

Positive indicators for musculoskeletal symptoms were few in either current or former child farmworkers. The knee was most common site for positive indicators with 15.4% of children having at least one. Combining all anatomical sites, 29.0% of children had at least one positive indicator, with no significant difference between current and former farmworkers. Overall, boys had significantly more indicators of knee injuries than girls (21.3% vs. 4.1%), indicators of ankle injuries were found only in the youngest workers (9.5% of children 11–13 years), and significantly fewer current farmworkers had indicators of lower back injuries than former farmworkers (6.4% vs. 17.7%).

Conclusions

Expectations of injuries come from previous studies using child farmworker self‐reports, adult farmworker injury rates, and sports medicine pediatric findings. Hired child farmworkers may not perform activities as repetitious and load‐bearing as children in sports training or adult farmworkers. Additional research using physical examination is needed to confirm these findings.
Simpson‐Golabi‐Behmel syndrome: One family, same mutation, different outcome
Authors: Fernandes Carla , Paúl Alexandra , Venâncio Maria Margarida , Ramos Fabiana
Published: May 2021

Simpson‐Golabi‐Behmel syndrome (SGBS) is a rare X‐linked condition characterized by pre and postnatal overgrowth with visceral and skeletal abnormalities. The syndrome is caused mainly by mutations in the X‐linked gene GPC3. Clinical presentation of SGBS in affected males is well defined, but there is a lack of knowledge about affected females, with very few reported cases. In total, eight female carriers with clinical expression of SGBS have been reported to date. In the present report, we describe the ninth patient and her family history. The interesting features of our female patient are the Wilms' tumor and the transfontanelar ultrasound findings. The patient's older sister, carrier of the same mutation, has minor facial dysmorphisms but no congenital anomalies and so far, no further clinical findings, as well as her mother and grandmother. There is a lesson to be learned from these rare cases, namely that SGBS may have a significant clinical expression in females, and therefore, screening should be considered in all patients with SGBS regardless of the sex or phenotypic severity.
Nutritional geometry of female chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Uwimbabazi Moreen , Raubenheimer David , Tweheyo Mnason , Basuta Gilbert I. , Conklin‐Brittain Nancy L. , Wrangham Richard W. , Rothman Jessica M.
Published: May 2021

Primate foraging is influenced by the spatial and temporal distribution of foods, which may facilitate or constrain optimal nutrient intakes. Chimpanzees are frugivorous primates that mainly subsist on ripe fruit that is typically low in available protein (AP) and high in easily digestible carbohydrates. Because chimpanzees prefer ripe fruit and often eat it in large quantities compared with other foods, we hypothesized that protein intake would be tightly regulated while non‐protein energy (NPE) would vary with fruit intake. To test this hypothesis, we conducted all‐day follows on female chimpanzees, recorded all types of food consumed (i.e., drupes, figs, and non‐fruit foods), estimated the nutritional contributions of these foods to daily NPE and AP intake and investigated how the ratio of NPE to AP varied due to changes in the types of foods consumed. Although the proportions of drupes, figs, and non‐fruit foods varied in their diets, female chimpanzees maintained a relatively stable intake of AP while intake of NPE varied depending on the daily diet, demonstrating that like other frugivorous primates studied to date, chimpanzees prioritize protein. The mean daily ratio of NPE to AP was 7:1, which is similar to that of other frugivorous primates studied. Our results support the hypothesis that frugivorous animals may generally prioritize AP, while maximizing NPE intake within that constraint, and could shed light on aspects of human dietary evolution.
Allometric scaling and growth: Evaluation and applications in subadult body mass estimation
Authors: Yim An‐Di , Konigsberg Lyle W. , Hwa Hsiao‐Lin , Chang Chin‐Chen , Chen Jo‐Yu , Liu Hon‐Man
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Previously developed methods in subadult body mass estimation have not been tested in populations other than European–American or African–American. This study uses a contemporary Taiwanese sample to test these methods. Through evaluating their accuracy and bias, we addressed whether the allometric relationships between body mass and skeletal traits commonly used in subadult body mass estimation are conserved among different populations.

Materials and Methods

Computed tomography scans of lower limbs from individuals aged 0–17 years old of both sexes were collected from National Taiwan University Hospital along with documented body weight. Polar second moment of area, distal femoral metaphyseal breadth, and maximum superior/inferior femoral head diameter were collected either directly from the scans or from reconstructed 3D models. Estimated body mass was compared with documented body mass to assess the performance of the equations.

Results

Current methods provided good body mass estimates in Taiwanese individuals, with accuracy and bias similar to those reported in other validation studies. A tendency for increasing error with increasing age was observed for all methods. Reduced major axis regression showed the allometric relationships between different skeletal traits and body mass across different age categories can all be summarized using a common fitted line. A revised, maximum likelihood‐based approach was proposed for all skeletal traits.

Discussion

The results suggested that the allometric relationships between body mass and different skeletal traits are largely conserved among populations. The revised method provided improved applicability with strong underlying theoretical justifications, and potential for future improvements.
Reversed Charge Transfer and Enhanced Hydrogen Spillover in Platinum Nanoclusters Anchored on Titanium Oxide with Rich Oxygen Vacancies Boost Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wei Zhen‐Wei , Wang Hong‐Juan , Zhang Chao , Xu Kun , Lu Xiu‐Li , Lu Tong‐Bu
Published: May 2021

The catalytic activity of metal clusters is closely related with the support; however, knowledge on the influence of the support on the catalytic activity is scarce. We demonstrate that Pt nanoclusters (NCs) anchored on porous TiO2 nanosheets with rich oxygen vacancies (VO‐rich Pt/TiO2) and deficient oxygen vacancies (VO‐deficient Pt/TiO2), display significantly different catalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), in which VO‐rich Pt/TiO2 shows a mass activity of 45.28 A mgPt−1 at −0.1 V vs. RHE, which is 16.7 and 58.8 times higher than those of VO‐deficient Pt/TiO2 and commercial Pt/C, respectively. DFT calculations and in situ Raman spectra suggest that porous TiO2 with rich oxygen vacancies can simultaneously achieve reversed charge transfer (electrons transfer from TiO2 to Pt NCs) and enhanced hydrogen spillover from Pt NCs to the TiO2 support, which leads to electron‐rich Pt NCs being amenable to proton reduction of absorbed H*, as well as the acceleration of hydrogen desorption at Pt catalytic sites—both promoting the HER. Our work provides a new strategy for rational design of highly efficient HER catalysts.
Pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block for hip fracture in the emergency department: a case series
Authors: Rocha‐Romero A. , Arias‐Mejia K. , Salas‐Ruiz A. , Peng P. W. H.
Published: May 2021

Guidelines for the management of hip fractures recommend timely identification, analgesia and optimisation, in order to facilitate prompt surgical repair. In achieving these aims, multidisciplinary care is essential. In this case series, we present five patients who received bedside pericapsular nerve group (PENG) blocks by emergency physicians in collaboration with the anaesthesia team for pain management following hip fracture. The PENG block is a novel motor‐ and opioid‐sparing technique, which offers long‐lasting analgesia and requires less volume than other blocks. In all of the cases in this series, the blocks were performed successfully in a short period of time, without complication. All patients reported a clinically important reduction in pain scores. Patients with hip fracture are often medically complex, and while early surgery is not always possible, pain management should be addressed from an early point in their hospital admission. Multidisciplinary input into peri‐operative pathways can enhance the provision of analgesia in the emergency department, by allowing anaesthetists and emergency physicians to work together for the benefit of these often‐frail patients.
COVID‐19 and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: experiences as a patient, general practitioner, wife and mother
Authors: Gupta A.
Published: May 2021

I contracted SARS‐CoV‐2 early in the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the UK and, following nine days of mechanical ventilation, was one of the first few patients to be accepted for venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. I remained in hospital for 150 days, 34 of which I spent with full extracorporeal respiratory support. I have no recollection of my time on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, but liberation from it was not the end of my story; I had to overcome numerous physical and mental challenges during recovery and rehabilitation. I hope my story is read by others who are recovering from COVID‐19 or critical illness more generally, and that it provides hope that the challenges of rehabilitation can be overcome. This reflection is a personal view of my illness as a patient. In it, I focus upon the aspects of my care that I can remember, predominantly around the time I became unwell but also during the recovery and rehabilitation period, which remains ongoing despite my discharge from hospital and subsequent return to work as a general practitioner.
Thermal conversion behavior and nitrogen‐containing gas products evolution during co‐pyrolysis of cow manure and coal: A thermal gravimetric analyzer/differential scanning calorimetry–mass spectrometer investigation
Authors: Ma Meng , Bai Yonghui , Wang Jiaofei , Song Xudong , Su Weiguang , Wang Fuchen , Yu Guangsuo
Published: May 2021

The kinetics and thermal behaviors of cow manure (CM) and Meihuajing bituminous coal (MHJ) blending from room temperature to 950°C were investigated by thermal gravimetric analyzer (TGA) coupled with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and mass spectrometer (MS). TG curves show that the high heating rate accelerates thermal decomposition rate, and the position of differential thermal gravity (DTG) peaks shifts to a higher temperature. Owing to the heat transfer limitation phenomenon, the residual weight of CM is only 40.38% with the heating rate of 1°C/min in comparison with other heating rate. DSC takes more time to reach a steady state than TGA. Gaseous evolution curves of HCN and NH3 were obtained during the pyrolysis of blends based on TG–MS experiments. With the increased heating rate, the emissions increased a lot due to the secondary reaction of volatiles. The Eα of 1C1M obtained using Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), Friedman, and Kissinger methods is within 124.58–317.18, 121.97–321.11, 150.28–331.64, and 209.26 kJ/mol, respectively. The kinetic parameters calculated based on four model‐free kinetic modeling methods shows good agreement. And the thermodynamic parameters were obtained and discussed under different conversion rates. This work is greatly important to understand the co‐prolysis mechanism of CM and coal and to design the pyrolysis reactors.
In situ generation of sulfur using silica as a carrier in the wet mixing of natural rubber latex
Authors: Wang Xiaoming , Xiao Yao , Zhu Donglin , Qu Shengqi , Wang Chuansheng , Wang Zhifei , Bian Huiguang
Published: May 2021

Using sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid as the raw materials and a silica aqueous dispersion as the carrier, sulfur is generated in situ by a chemical precipitation method, and an in situ sulfur‐silica/natural rubber (in situ S‐Silica/NR) composite is prepared. The in situ sulfur is characterized, and its effects on the natural rubber composites' cross‐linking density, vulcanization characteristics, mechanical properties, aging properties, dynamic mechanical properties, and Payne effect are studied. The experimental results show that the particle size of in situ sulfur is small, with a maximum of 5 μm, and the cross‐linking ability is stronger than commercial sulfur. Due to the strong surface adsorption force of silica, the interfacial bonding strength is enhanced, and the dispersion of the two components in the rubber matrix is improved. Compared with commercial sulfur‐silica/natural rubber (S‐Silica/NR) composites, the tensile strength is 20.3% higher, the elongation at break is 28.5% higher, and it better retains its aging properties and has a lower rolling resistance. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of functional rubber vulcanizing agents and the preparation of high‐performance rubber composites.
Influences of 4ZnO·B2O3·H2O whisker based intumescent flame retardant on the mechanical, flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of polypropylene composites
Authors: Dang Li , Lv Zhihui , Liu Xin
Published: May 2021

In this work, the influences of 4ZnO·B2O3·H2O zinc borate (ZB) whisker based intumescent flame retardant (IFR) containing ammonium polyphosphate and dipentaerythritol on the mechanical, flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of polypropylene (PP) composites were characterized by the universal testing machine, UL‐94, limiting oxygen index (LOI), and cone calorimeter tests, respectively. The results indicate that only 1 phr of ZB could effectively improve the LOI value and slow down the burning rate of PP composite. The peak heat release rate, average of HRR, total heat release, peak smoke production rate, and total smoke production values are all decreased from 413.8 kW/m2, 166.3 kW/m2, 82.3 MJ/m2, 0.0995 m2/s, and 17.9 m2 for PPc/20IFR composite to 267.8 kW/m2, 128.3 kW/m2, 66.8 MJ/m2, 0.0478 m2/s, and 12.6 m2 for PPc/20IFR/1ZB composite, respectively. The scanning electron microscopy images, energy dispersive spectrometry, and Raman spectra of char residue reveal that ZB is helpful to form a compact and graphitized intumescent char residue so that the heat diffusion and oxygen transmission are greatly hindered. The thermogravimetry analysis‐fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TGA‐FTIR) results show that less combustible volatiles and more H2O vapor are generated with the appearance of ZB. Hence, the combustion mechanism in gas phase is suppressed.
Target sequence capture in orchids: Developing a kit to sequence hundreds of single‐copy loci
Authors: Eserman Lauren A. , Thomas Shawn K. , Coffey Emily E. D. , Leebens‐Mack James H.
Published: May 2021

Premise

Understanding relationships among orchid species and populations is of critical importance for orchid conservation. Target sequence capture has become a standard method for extracting hundreds of orthologous loci for phylogenomics. Up‐front cost and time associated with design of bait sets makes this method prohibitively expensive for many researchers. Therefore, we designed a target capture kit to reliably sequence hundreds of orthologous loci across orchid lineages.

Methods

We designed an Orchidaceae target capture bait set for 963 single‐copy genes identified in published orchid genome sequences. The bait set was tested on 28 orchid species, with representatives of the subfamilies Cypripedioideae, Orchidoideae, and Epidendroideae.

Results

Between 1,518,041 and 87,946,590 paired‐end 150‐base reads were generated for target‐enriched genomic libraries. We assembled an average of 812 genes per library for Epidendroideae species and a mean of 501 genes for species in the subfamilies Orchidoideae and Cypripedioideae. Furthermore, libraries had on average 107 of the 254 genes that are included in the Angiosperms353 bait set, allowing for direct comparison of studies using either bait set.

Discussion

The Orchidaceae963 kit will enable greater accessibility and utility of next‐generation sequencing for orchid systematics, population genetics, and identification in the illegal orchid trade.
Strategies for Improving the Catalytic Performance of 2D Covalent Organic Frameworks for Hydrogen Evolution and Oxygen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Deng Yang , Wang Yue , Chen Yibo , Zhang Zhen
Published: May 2021

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) have been deemed as clean and sustainable strategies to solve the energy crisis and environmental problems. Various catalysts have been developed to promote the process of HER and OER. Among them, two‐dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) have received great attention due to their diverse and designable structure. In this minireview, we mainly summarize the diverse linkages of 2D COFs and strategies for enhancing the catalytic performance of 2D COFs for HER and OER, such as introducing active building blocks, metal ions and tailored linkages. Furthermore, a brief outlook for the development directions of COFs in the field of HER and OER is provided, expecting to stimulate new opportunities in future research.
Bi(OTf)3‐catalyed One‐pot Synthesis of α‐Halo‐β‐amino Ketones and Acyl Aziridines from 3‐Aryl Propargyl Alcohols
Authors: Zhang Qinglin , Duan Yongbin , Guo Huifeng , Yang Hong , Zhai Jiulong , Li Tiantian , Wang Zhihai , Lu Xiaolei , Wang Yan , Yin Yan
Published: May 2021

A Bi(OTf)3‐catalyed reaction of 3‐aryl propargyl alcohols with sulfonamide and halogen source was firstly investigated, which provided a facile route for the synthesis of a large variety of α‐halo‐β‐amino ketones. The key intermediates, β‐amino ketones, were obtained through tandem Meyer‐Schuster rearrangement reaction of propargyl alcohols and intermolecular Michael addition of α, β‐unsaturated ketones and sulfonamide. Then the in situ generated α‐halo‐β‐amino ketones underwent the base‐promoted intramolecular cyclization to give diverse acyl aziridines in a one‐pot fashion. These transformations are reliable on a large scale. The high yields and convenient experimental operations make it a valuable method for the construction of α‐halo‐β‐amino ketones and acyl aziridine derivatives.
Closing the species gap: Translational approaches to studying sensory processing differences relevant for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Scott Kaela E. , Schulz Samantha E. , Moehrle Dorit , Allman Brian L. , Oram Cardy Janis E. , Stevenson Ryan A. , Schmid Susanne
Published: May 2021

The study of sensory phenotypes has great potential for increasing research translation between species, a necessity to decipher the neural mechanisms that contribute to higher‐order differences in neurological conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Over the past decade, despite separate advances in our understanding of the structural and functional differences within the brain of autistic and non‐autistic individuals and in rodent models for ASD, researchers have had difficulty translating the findings in murine species to humans, mostly due to incompatibility in experimental methodologies used to screen for ASD phenotypes. Focusing on sensory phenotypes offers an avenue to close the species gap because sensory pathways are highly conserved across species and are affected by the same risk‐factors as the higher‐order brain areas mostly responsible for the diagnostic criteria for ASD. By first reviewing how sensory processing has been studied to date, we direct our focus to electrophysiological and behavioral techniques that can be used to study sensory phenotypes consistently across species. Using auditory sensory phenotypes as a template, we seek to improve the accessibility of translational methods by providing a framework for collecting cohesive data in both rodents and humans. Specifically, evoked‐potentials, acoustic startle paradigms, and psychophysical detection/discrimination paradigms can be created and implemented in a coordinated and systematic fashion across species. Through careful protocol design and collaboration, sensory processing phenotypes can be harnessed to bridge the gap that exists between preclinical animal studies and human testing, so that mutually held questions in autism research can be answered.

Lay Summary

It has always been difficult to relate results from animal research to humans. We try to close this gap by studying changes in sensory processing using careful protocol design and collaboration between clinicians and researchers. Sensory pathways are comparable between animals and humans, and are affected in the same way as the rest of the brain in ASD. Using changes in hearing as a template, we point the field in an innovative direction by providing a framework for collecting cohesive data in rodents and humans.
Stabilisation of the Fatty Acid Decarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis by Caprylic Acid
Authors: Wu Yinqi , Paul Caroline E. , Hollmann Frank
Published: May 2021

The fatty acid photodecarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis NC64 A (CvFAP) catalyses the light‐dependent decarboxylation of fatty acids. Photoinactivation of CvFAP still represents one of the major limitations of this interesting enzyme en route to practical application. In this study we demonstrate that the photostability of CvFAP can easily be improved by the administration of medium‐chain length carboxylic acids such as caprylic acid indicating that the best way of maintaining CvFAP stability is ‘to keep the enzyme busy’.
Metal Complexes as Antiviral Agents for SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Karges Johannes , Cohen Seth M.
Published: May 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome – coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), the infectious agent responsible for COVID‐19 – has caused more than 2.5 million deaths worldwide and triggered a global pandemic. Even with successful vaccines being delivered, there is an urgent need for novel treatments to combat SARS‐CoV‐2, and other emerging viral diseases. While several organic small molecule drug candidates are in development, some effort has also been devoted towards the application of metal complexes as potential antiviral agents against SARS‐CoV‐2. Herein, the metal complexes that have been reported to show antiviral activity against SARS‐CoV‐2 or one of its target proteins are described and their proposed mechanisms of action are discussed.
Mass Transport in Nanoporous Gold and Correlation with Surface Pores for EC1 Mechanism: Case of Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Gonçalves Josue M. , Furtado Vinicius L. , Araki Koiti , Angnes Lucio , Bouvet Marcel , Bertotti Mauro , Meunier‐Prest Rita
Published: May 2021

The present work correlates the mass transport of ascorbic acid (AA), which undergoes an electrochemical reaction accompanied by a first‐order chemical reaction (EC1 mechanism), with the size of surface pores of nanoporous gold (NPG) films. NPG films were electrodeposited on gold microelectrodes, generating polycrystalline, and highly porous surfaces. Studies of AA electrooxidation reveal mainly diffusional mass transport driven by EC1 pathways on the NPG electrodes prepared by changing the deposition potential. Similar studies on the NPGs prepared by changing the deposition time exhibit mainly diffusional transport at shorter deposition times, and largely an adsorption process driven by EC1 at longer deposition times. Such transition in the reaction pathways from diffusion EC1 to adsorption EC1 is correlated with the evolution of micrometer large surface pores in NPG films prepared at longer deposition times, allowing the diffusion of AA from the bulk solution to the volume of NPG, which enhances the adsorption probability.
Electron Transfer and Electrocatalytic Properties of the Immobilized Met80Ala Cytochrome c Variant in Dimethylsulfoxide
Authors: Di Rocco Giulia , Bighi Beatrice , Borsari Marco , Bortolotti Carlo Augusto , Ranieri Antonio , Sola Marco , Battistuzzi Gianantonio
Published: May 2021

The electrode‐immobilized Met80Ala variant of yeast iso‐1 cytochrome c in mixed water/dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solutions up to 60 % v/v DMSO shows thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of electron exchange and electrocatalytic properties towards O2 reduction fully comparable to those in water. This is the result of moderate protein conformational changes thanks to immobilization that, to a certain extent, preserves protein structure, possibly due to the constraints on protein mobility/flexibility induced by the electrostatic interactions with the electrode‐coating SAM. Upon increasing the DMSO content of the mixed solution beyond 60 %, a much larger perturbation occurs that leads to the progressive loss of the electrocatalytic ability. Therefore, under these conditions, the organic solvent remarkably affects the structure and properties of the protein probably involving major conformational changes or even the replacement of the 6th axial hydroxide ligand of the heme iron with a strong protein ligand, possibly a lysine residue.
Ground motions induced by wind turbines
Authors: Nagel Sven , Zieger Toni , Luhmann Birger , Knödel Peter , Ritter Joachim , Ummenhofer Thomas
Published: May 2021

Wind flow transfers forces to the wind turbine's rotor blades. These then set the rotor in motion. The hub and the gearbox, where present, transfer this rotational energy to the generator for conversion into electrical power. All the rotating components have significant mass and are located at the head of a slender, elastic load‐bearing tower in which they induce dynamic effects. The resulting vibrations, generated at the upper end of the tower, are modified by the dynamic properties of the tower structure and pass through the foundations into the ground. Broadband seismometers record these ground vibrations not only directly adjacent to the wind turbine but also at greater distances of (up to) several kilometers from the turbine. We are aware that local residents and opponents of wind power consider that these vibration phenomena bear potential negative health effects. In the context of this paper, seismic vibrations were measured at the foundation of a 2 MW reference turbine. These seismic signals were compared to numerical simulations. Based on this, we explain the physical background. In the past, any ground vibrations measured have usually been attributed exclusively to the excitation frequencies from the rotor. However, the investigations presented here show that the structural properties of the tower structure significantly influence the type and intensity of the vibrations induced in the ground and dominate the ground motion amplitudes. Finally, we show that the targeted use of absorbers can significantly reduce the vibrations induced in the ground.
Nucleophilicities and Nucleofugalities of Thio‐ and Selenoethers
Authors: Maji Biplab , Duan Xin‐Hua , Jüstel Patrick M. , Byrne Peter A. , Ofial Armin R. , Mayr Herbert
Published: May 2021

Rate constants for the reactions of dialkyl chalcogenides with laser flash photolytically generated benzhydrylium ions have been measured photometrically to integrate them into the comprehensive benzhydrylium‐based nucleophilicity scale. Combining these rate constants with the previously reported equilibrium constants for the same reactions provided the corresponding Marcus intrinsic barriers and made it possible to quantify the leaving group abilities (nucleofugalities) of dialkyl sulfides and dimethyl selenide. Due to the low intrinsic barriers, dialkyl chalcogenides are fairly strong nucleophiles (comparable to pyridine and N‐methylimidazole) as well as good nucleofuges; this makes them useful group‐transfer reagents.
Donor‐Acceptor Type Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Zhao Jinwei , Ren Junyu , Zhang Guang , Zhao Ziqiang , Liu Shiyong , Zhang Wandong , Chen Long
Published: May 2021

Intermolecular charge transfer (ICT) effect has been widely studied in both small molecules and linear polymers. Covalently‐bonded donor‐acceptor pairs with tunable bandgaps and photoelectric properties endow these materials with potential applications in optoelectronics, fluorescent bioimaging, and sensors, etc. However, owing to the lack of charge transfer pathway or effective separation of charge carriers, unfavorable charge recombination gives rise to inevitable energy loss. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) can be mediated with various geometry‐ and property‐tailored building blocks, where donor (D) and acceptor (A) segments are connected by covalent bonds and can be finely arranged to form highly ordered networks (namely D−A COFs). The unique structural features of D−A COFs render the formation of segregated D−A stacks, thus provides pathways and channels for effective charge carriers transport. This review highlights the significant progress on D−A COFs over the past decade with emphasis on design principles, growing structural diversities, and promising application potentials.
Einsatz von Lamellen‐Tropfenabscheidern in Trennkolonnen
Authors: Maćkowiak Jerzy , Maćkowiak Jan F.
Published: May 2021

Tropfenabscheider sind ein wichtiger Bestandteil von Trennkolonnen. Sie werden vertikal angeströmt am Kopf von Packungs‐ oder Bodenkolonnen für Gas/Flüssigsysteme eingesetzt, um Tropfenmitriss in die Umwelt oder nachfolgende Anlagenteile zu verhindern. Die Abscheider tragen dabei auch zur Steigerung der Trenneffizienz von Kolonnen bei. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird die Entwicklung einer neuen Abscheidergeometrie durch Kombination von experimentellen Untersuchungen und CFD‐Studien vorgestellt. Das Ergebnis ist ein neuer Lamellenabscheider, der im Vergleich zu Standardabscheidern eine verbesserte Trennleistung bei vergleichbaren Strömungsdruckverlusten aufweist.
Risks of subsequent primary cancers among breast cancer survivors according to hormone receptor status
Authors: Sung Hyuna , Freedman Rachel A. , Siegel Rebecca L. , Hyun Noorie , DeSantis Carol E. , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: May 2021

Background

This study was aimed at examining the risks of subsequent primary cancers (SPCs) among breast cancer survivors by hormone receptor (HR) status and age at diagnosis.

Methods

Data from 12 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries were used to identify 431,222 breast cancer survivors (at least 1 year) diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 84 years from 1992 to 2015. Risks of SPCs were measured as the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) and the excess absolute risk (EAR) per 10,000 person‐years. Poisson regression was used to test the difference in SIRs by HR status.

Results

In comparison with the general population, the risk of new cancer diagnoses among survivors was 20% higher for those with HR‐positive cancers (SIR, 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19‐1.21; EAR, 23.3/10,000 person‐years) and 44% higher for those with HR‐negative cancers (SIR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.41‐1.47; EAR, 45.2/10,000 person‐years), with the risk difference between HR statuses statistically significant. The higher risk after HR‐negative cancer was driven by acute nonlymphocytic leukemia and breast, ovarian, peritoneal, and lung cancers. By age at diagnosis, the total EAR per 10,000 person‐years ranged from 15.8 (95% CI, 14.1‐17.5; SIR, 1.11) among late‐onset (age, 50‐84 years) HR‐positive survivors to 69.4 (95% CI, 65.1‐73.7; SIR, 2.24) among early‐onset (age, 20‐49 years) HR‐negative survivors, with subsequent breast cancer representing 73% to 80% of the total EAR. After breast cancer, the greatest EARs were for ovarian cancer among early‐onset HR‐negative survivors, lung cancer among early‐ and late‐onset HR‐negative survivors, and uterine corpus cancer among late‐onset HR‐positive survivors.

Conclusions

Risks of SPCs after breast cancer differ substantially by subtype and age. This suggests that more targeted approaches for cancer prevention and early‐detection strategies are needed in survivorship care planning.
Characterization and Electrocatalytic Features of PtPd and PdPt Bimetallic Nanoparticles for Methanol Electro‐oxidation
Authors: Higareda América , Rosas Gerardo , Pérez Ramiro , Esparza Rodrigo
Published: May 2021

This work entails a comprehensive study on PtPd, and PdPt bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) supported on Vulcan XC‐72 carbon towards methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in alkaline media. BNPs with different compositions were synthesized using a flexible and facile polyol method through a heterogeneous nucleation process. The homogeneous BNPs were characterized by SEM, XRD, HR‐TEM and XRF to analyse the crystallographic structure and verified the controlled characteristics. The electrochemical properties and stability were investigated using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry, respectively. As a consequence of the electrocatalysts’ controlled composition, a direct correlation between the catalytic activity and the shift in the PtO/PdO reduction potential was observed. The optimal electrocatalyst that overcomes the catalytic performance of PdPt structure, also showed an improvement in the CO anti‐poisoning ability was PtPd (1 : 0.5)/C with a current density of 12.56‐fold higher than of commercial Pt/C. This study about different Pt/Pd structures may provide valuable information for developing new and efficient electrocatalysts towards MOR.
Vividly warm: The color saturation of logos on brands' customer sensitivity judgment
Authors: Xiao Chunqu , Zhu Hong , Wang Xin , Wu Liang
Published: May 2021

Colors play an essential role in brand image, especially in brand logos. The extant research has mainly focused on the hue and ignoring the saturation. The current research has provided a new insight that logos with high saturated colors could help brands to increase intimacy with customers and further benefit the brand image. A series of studies tested the effect of color saturation on the brand's customer sensitivity. Study 1 showed that shoes with the high saturated logo were evaluated more comfortable than those with low saturated logo. Study 2 repeated this effect and found that perceived closeness mediated this effect. Study 3 revealed that logo shapes moderated this effect. Specifically, the effect of color saturation on the brand's customer sensitivity judgment only existed in circular logos. Study 4 showed that brand origins moderated this effect. The color saturation effect on purchase intentions reversed for non‐local brands. The present research extends the exploration of color saturation on consumer behaviors and provides practical implications for brands to choose the right logo color.
Combined Crossed Molecular Beams and Ab Initio Study of the Bimolecular Reaction of Ground State Atomic Silicon (Si; 3P) with Germane (GeH4; X1A1)
Authors: Krasnoukhov Vladislav S. , Azyazov Valeriy N. , Mebel Alexander M. , Doddipatla Srinivas , Yang Zhenghai , Goettl Shane , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: May 2021

The chemical dynamics of the elementary reaction of ground state atomic silicon (Si; 3P) with germane (GeH4; X1A1) were unraveled in the gas phase under single collision condition at a collision energy of 11.8±0.3 kJ mol−1 exploiting the crossed molecular beams technique contemplated with electronic structure calculations. The reaction follows indirect scattering dynamics and is initiated through an initial barrierless insertion of the silicon atom into one of the four chemically equivalent germanium‐hydrogen bonds forming a triplet collision complex (HSiGeH3; 3i1). This intermediate underwent facile intersystem crossing (ISC) to the singlet surface (HSiGeH3; 1i1). The latter isomerized via at least three hydrogen atom migrations involving exotic, hydrogen bridged reaction intermediates eventually leading to the H3SiGeH isomer i5. This intermediate could undergo unimolecular decomposition yielding the dibridged butterfly‐structured isomer 1p1 (Si(μ‐H2)Ge) plus molecular hydrogen through a tight exit transition state. Alternatively, up to two subsequent hydrogen shifts to i6 and i7, followed by fragmentation of each of these intermediates, could also form 1p1 (Si(μ‐H2)Ge) along with molecular hydrogen. The overall non‐adiabatic reaction dynamics provide evidence on the existence of exotic dinuclear hydrides of main group XIV elements, whose carbon analog structures do not exist.
Mechanochromic Luminescence and Solid‐State Circularly Polarized Luminescence of a Chiral Diamine‐Linked Bispyrene
Authors: Ito Suguru , Sekine Ryohei , Munakata Masayasu , Asami Masatoshi , Tachikawa Takashi , Kaji Daiki , Mishima Kohei , Imai Yoshitane
Published: May 2021

Despite the recent increased interest in organic small molecule luminophores that exhibit circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) or mechanochromic luminescence (MCL), MCL behavior in chiral luminophores that display solid‐state CPL still remains elusive. Herein, it is reported that a chiral diamine‐linked bispyrene derivative exhibits a rare MCL behavior in response to two different types of mechanical stimuli, namely utrasonication and grinding. Moreover, an unprecedented switching of solid‐state CPL has been achieved for the chiral bispyrene between two states that can respond to the different mechanical stimuli. These findings should help to advance the development of practical CPL materials.
A portable method for predicting the germination percentage of sorghum × sudangrass seed using multispectral images
Authors: Hui Yunting , Wang Decheng , You Yong , Tang Xin , Peng Yaoqi , Zhu Lu , Huan Xiaolong
Published: May 2021

The high quality of sorghum × sudangrass [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. × S. sudanense (Piper) Stapf.] seed is an important prerequisite for its application in animal husbandry, and germination percentage is one of the most routine indicators used to test seed quality. This study proposes a method for the rapid and nondestructive measurement of sorghum × sudangrass seed germination percentage based on multispectral image technology. We constructed target region in sorghum × sudangrass seed samples, and after white board calibration and ratio conversion, the spectral reflectance of each group of seeds was obtained at five wavebands. A seed germination test was performed in an incubator, and germination percentage was obtained from 100 sorghum × sudangrass seed samples. Using the neural network and the Levenberg–Marquardt method, spectral reflectance and germination percentage data from the 100 seed samples were used to establish a predictive model of seed germination percentage. The input neurons were reflectance in five wavelength bands, and the output neuron was seeds germination percentage. Experimental data from 80 samples were randomly selected for training, and data from the remaining 20 nontraining samples were imported into the predictive model for simulation verification. The fitting correlation coefficient of the model was .73202, representing the relevant closing degree, and the correlation coefficient between the predicted value and the simulation value from 20 nontraining samples was .7533, which referred to the relationship between variables. The model was able to predict the seed germination percentage with acceptable accuracy. Therefore, the nondestructive method described here may be suitable for rapid detection of sorghum × sudangrass seed germination percentage in the context of seed production.
Identification of kinases and kinase inhibitors for the differential targeting of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in gastric cancer subtypes
Authors: Bhaskar Rao Divya , Devanandan Helen Jemimah , Ganesan Kumaresan
Published: May 2021

The oncogenic signaling pathway Wnt is often activated in many cancers including gastric cancer. Wnt signaling pathway is considered as a potential target for developing new targeted therapeutics. Kinase inhibitors are the promising class of drugs for many diseases including cancers. Toward identifying the potent inhibitors targeting Wnt signaling pathway, a kinase inhibitor library with 82 inhibitors were screened using Wnt pathway reporter assay in gastric cancer cells. Notably, 34 kinase inhibitors were identified to inhibit Wnt mediated reporter activity to the extent of more than 50%. The corresponding kinase genes, which are known targets of these kinase inhibitors, were investigated for their expression in the available mRNA profiles of gastric tumors. A major group of the kinase genes showed higher expression in intestinal subtype gastric tumors. Another group of kinase genes were found expressed in diffuse type gastric tumors. The kinase genes expressed in intestinal type gastric tumors were found associated with varying survival of gastric cancer patients whereas those expressed in diffuse type tumors were found associated with the poor survival. Thus, the kinase genes specifically expressed in intestinal and diffuse type gastric tumors and the kinase inhibitors to target Wnt signaling pathway in gastric cancer subtypes have been identified.
Demographic history and local adaptation of Myripnois dioica (Asteraceae) provide insight on plant evolution in northern China flora
Authors: Lin Nan , Landis Jacob B. , Sun Yanxia , Huang Xianhan , Zhang Xu , Liu Qun , Zhang Huajie , Sun Hang , Wang Hengchang , Deng Tao
Published: May 2021

The flora of northern China forms the main part of the Sino‐Japanese floristic region and is located in a south–north vegetative transect in East Asia. Phylogeographic studies have demonstrated that an arid belt in this region has promoted divergence of plants in East Asia. However, little is known about how plants that are restricted to the arid belt of flora in northern China respond to climatic oscillation and environmental change. Here, we used genomic‐level data of Myripnois dioica across its distribution as a representative of northern China flora to reconstruct plant demographic history, examine local adaptation related to environmental disequilibrium, and investigate the factors related to effective population size change. Our results indicate M. dioica originated from the northern area and expanded to the southern area, with the Taihang Mountains serving as a physical barrier promoting population divergence. Genome‐wide evidence found strong correlation between genomic variation and environmental factors, specifically signatures associated with local adaptation to drought stress in heterogeneous environments. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed joint effects of population age, mean temperature of coldest quarter, and precipitation of wettest month on effective population size (Ne). Our current study uses M. dioica as a case for providing new insights into the evolutionary history and local adaptation of northern China flora and provides qualitative strategies for plant conservation.
Transfer efficiency of carbon, nutrients, and polyunsaturated fatty acids in planktonic food webs under different environmental conditions
Authors: Karpowicz Maciej , Feniova Irina , Gladyshev Michail I. , Ejsmont‐Karabin Jolanta , Górniak Andrzej , Sushchik Nadezhda N. , Anishchenko Olesya V. , Dzialowski Andrew R.
Published: May 2021

The trophic transfer efficiency (TTE) is an important indicator of ecosystem functioning. However, TTE data from freshwater food webs are ambiguous due to differences in time scales and methods. We investigated the transfer of essential substances (carbon, nutrients, and polyunsaturated fatty acids) through plankton communities in 30 Polish lakes with different trophic status in the middle of summer. The results of our study revealed that different essential substances were transferred from phytoplankton to zooplankton with varying efficiencies. The average TTE of C, N, P, and the sum of ω‐3 PUFA were 6.55%, 9.82%, 15.82%, and 20.90%, respectively. Our results also show a large mismatch between the elemental and biochemical compositions of zooplankton and their food during the peak of the summer stagnation, which may further promote the accumulation of essential substances. There were also large differences in TTEs between trophic conditions, with the highest efficiencies in oligotrophic lakes and the lowest in dystrophic and eutrophic lakes. Therefore, our study indicates that disturbances like eutrophication and dystrophication similarly decrease the TTE of essential substances between phytoplankton and zooplankton in freshwater food webs.