bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evolution of bitter taste receptor gene in primates: Gene duplication and selection
Authors: Feng Ping , Liang Xinyue , Yu Hongling , Dong Xiaoyan , Liang Qiufang , Dai Chuanyin
Published: October 2023

Bitter taste perception plays an important role in preventing animals from digesting poisonous and harmful substances. In primates, especially the Cercopithecidae species, most species feed on plants; thus, it is reasonable to speculate that most of the bitter taste receptor genes (T2Rs) of primates are under purifying selection to maintain the functional stability of bitter taste perception. Gene duplication has happened inT2Rs frequently, and what will be the fate ofT2Rs copies is another question we are concerned about. To answer these questions, we selected theT2Rs of primates reported in another study and conducted corresponding selective pressure analyses to determine what kind of selective pressure was acting on them. Further, we carried out selective pressure analyses on gene copies and their corresponding ancestors by considering several possible situations. The results showed that among the 25 gene groups examined here, 15 groups are subject to purifying selection and others are under relaxed selection, with many positively selected sites detected. Gene copies existed in several groups, but only some groups (clade1_a1‐b2, clade1_c‐c2, clade1_d1‐d3, clade1_f1‐f2,T2R10,T2R13, andT2R42) have positively selected sites, inferring that they may have some relation to functional divergence. Taken together,T2Rs in primates are under diverse selective pressures, and most gene copies are subject to the same selective pressures. In such cases, the copies may be just to keep the function conservative, and more copies can increase the quantity of the bitter taste receptor, raise the efficiency of bitter substance recognition, and finally enhance the fitness of feeding during the evolutionary course of primates. This study can improve our understanding ofT2Rs evolution in primates.
Flower‐like Fe(OH)3 as Sulfur Hosts for High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Jiangle , Du Rui , Yu Chuanbai , Shi Zhangyan , Xu Chengying , Ren Rongting
Published: October 2023

Lithium‐sulfur batteries are considered one of the next generation potential candidates for electrochemical energy storage devices owing to their high energy density. However, their practical application presents several challenges that need to be addressed. In this study, a flower‐like Fe(OH)3 was obtained using a simple and environmentally friendly one‐step injection method, intended to be used as sulfur host in lithium‐sulfur batteries. The polar hydroxyl groups in Fe(OH)3 capture free polysulfides in the electrolyte via chemisorption and the unique structure of the material physically entraps polysulfides, thus preventing the shuttle effect. Benefiting from functional group and spatial shape advantages, the resultant S@FH electrode yielded an initial capacity of 1187.6 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. When the batteries are tested for 100 cycles, the reversible capacity remained at 635.2 mAh g−1 and the coulomb efficiency was nearly 100 %.
Synthesis of Highly Substituted Pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinoline‐3,5‐diones through Ag(I) Catalyzed Cyclization of 4‐Hydroxyquinolinyl‐2‐ynones
Authors: Kurian Jais , Manheri Muraleedharan K.
Published: October 2023

An efficient synthetic route to access highly substituted pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinoline‐3,5‐diones in which the core is formed by fusion of quinolone and pyrrolone moieties is discussed. The method involves Ag(I) catalyzed cyclization of 4‐Hydroxyquinolinyl‐2‐ynones which in turn may be accessed from kynurenic acid derivatives through Weinreb amide intermediate, followed by alkyne addition. Studies involving substrates with different substitution pattern revealed that factors increasing the nucleophilicity of quinoline nitrogen or Lewis acid‐coordination of the ynone unit gives high yields in short reaction times. It was possible to execute tandem cyclization‐arylation sequence by using Pd(II) generated by oxidative addition of Pd(0) with aryl iodide as the electrophilic species to get substitution pattern as seen in Discoipyrrole A.
Evaluation of the Chronic Reproductive Toxicity of a Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foam and a Short-Chain Fluorinated Foam to Northern Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus)
Authors: Hossain Farzana , Dennis Nicole M. , Karnjanapiboonwong Adcharee , Subbiah Seenivasan , Longwell Anna S. , Suski Jamie G. , Salice Christopher J. , Anderson Todd A.
Published: October 2023

The development of fluorine-free firefighting foams has been proposed as a way to reduce the adverse environmental consequences of foams containing per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances. While there are likely fewer environmental and ecological concerns with these new fluorine-free foams in terms of persistence and bioaccumulation, it is prudent to evaluate the ecotoxicity of these fluorine-free foam products given the absence of data. Oral chronic drinking water exposure studies on adult pairs of northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) were conducted with a short-chain fluorinated and a fluorine-free foam: Buckeye Platinum Plus C6 and National Foam Avio Green KHC, respectively, at three exposure concentrations (0.01%, 0.1%, and 0.25%). Adults were monitored for survival, growth, and reproductive output; and chicks were monitored for survival and growth. Growth parameters in adult quail were not affected by exposure to the Buckeye or Avio foam. However, liver lipid content was higher in adult males exposed to the Buckeye foam or the Avio foam at the highest exposure concentrations. Chicks were heavier and had higher growth rates after adult exposure to Avio at the highest exposure level (0.25%) and to Buckeye at the two lowest exposure levels but not at the highest exposure level. The two adverse reproductive effects observed from avian exposure to Buckeye were an increased percentage of cracked eggs and earlier arrested embryonic development. Similarly, chronic exposure to Avio also induced earlier arrested embryonic development. These results show that the fluorine-free foams tested did cause toxicity to bobwhite quail, but whether they pose a risk at contaminated sites requires further laboratory and field study and additional exposure data. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:211–221. © 2023 SETAC
Recent advances in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution of AgIn5S8‐based photocatalysts
Authors: Zheng Xinlong , Yang Yuqi , Song Yiming , Ma Zongxian , Gao Qizhi , Liu Yuhao , Li Jing , Wu Xiao , Wang Xingbo , Mao Weihua , Liu Weifeng , Shen Yijun , Tian Xinlong
Published: October 2023

The development of semiconductor photocatalysts is of great significance for the realization of efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE). AgIn5S8, as an emerging ternary metal sulfide photocatalyst, possesses the advantages of suitable bandgap (1.7–2.0 eV), environment‐friendly elements, and strong photostability, which holds great potential to realize high‐efficiency PHE. Although AgIn5S8‐based photocatalysts have achieved promising research progresses, their PHE performances are still far below the level of commercial applications. In this review, the basic semiconductor properties of AgIn5S8 and PHE mechanism are first introduced in detail. Subsequently, the development process and PHE activities of AgIn5S8‐based photocatalysts are systematically summarized, mainly including morphology control, Schottky junction formation through cocatalyst loading, and construction of different types of heterojunctions. Finally, the current issues and the possible solutions of AgIn5S8‐based photocatalysts in future studies are presented.
House dust mite subcutaneous immunotherapy has sustained long‐term effectiveness on allergic rhinitis and asthma: A 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: Rodriguez‐Plata Elena , Callero Viera Ariel , Ruiz‐Garcia Monica , Gomez‐Cardenosa Aida , Nieto Eva , García‐Robaina Jose Carlos
Published: October 2023

Background

Maintenance doses for allergen immunotherapy (AIT) have been recommended for at least 3 years but little data on long‐term efficacy is available depending on AIT duration. To show sustained efficacy 10 years after completion of treatment with depigmented‐polymerized house dust mite (dpg‐pol HDM) allergen extract in adults with asthma and/or rhinoconjunctivitis.

Methods

Patients included in a double‐blind placebo‐controlled AIT study with dpg‐pol HDM allergen extract were reviewed at completion of the perennial treatment and 10‐year follow‐up (10y‐FU). Change in symptom and rescue medication score was the primary objective. Visual analog scale (VAS), asthma control test (ACT), and degree of disease control were the secondary objectives. A comparative analysis between patients who underwent AIT treatment for <3 years and ≥3 years was performed.

Results

Data from 31 patients (mean age 38 years) were available at 10y‐FU. All had asthma and 29 had rhinoconjunctivitis at baseline. Twenty‐three patients were treated ≥3 years and 8 for <3 years. Seventeen (55%) patients were asymptomatic at completion of AIT, with significant differences for nasal, conjunctival, and bronchial symptoms (p < .0001) compared with baseline only in those patients treated ≥3 years. Nine (52.9%) patients remained completely asymptomatic at 10y‐FU, all were treated for ≥3 years. Moreover, significant reduction in the number of patients with rhinitis (p = .0117), conjunctivitis (p < .0001), and bronchial (p = .0005) symptoms was observed at 10y‐FU compared with baseline only in the ≥3 years treated. Ten (32.3%) patients did not require any rescue medication at 10y‐FU, all had been treated for ≥3 years. ACT at 10y‐FU showed a good control of asthma (median 23.5; 95% IC[22.0, 25.0]). No significant differences were observed between VAS at end of treatment compared with VAS at 10y‐FU.

Conclusions

Sustained clinical efficacy is achieved 10 years after completion of depigmented‐polymerized HDM, however, these findings were observed only if patients are treated for at least 3 years.
ICD‐11 prolonged grief disorder: Prevalence, predictors, and co‐occurrence in a large representative sample
Authors: Peinado Vanesa , Valiente Carmen , Contreras Alba , Trucharte Almudena , Butter Sarah , Murphy Jamie , Shevlin Mark
Published: October 2023

The International Classification of Diseases has recently defined Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) with symptoms such as longing, worry, and intense emotional pain that exceed sociocultural norms more than 6 months after the loss. This study aims to (a) estimate the prevalence of this new diagnostic category, (b) identify its sociodemographic and loss‐related predictors, and (c) assess the co‐occurrence of PGD with other psychological disorders and substance abuse. A large representative sample of Spanish adults (N = 1498) participated. Several multivariate binary logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression models were used. Results showed a 9.95% prevalence in the total sample. Catholic beliefs were a positive predictor, while higher income and more time since loss significantly decreased the odds of PGD. PGD significantly increased the likelihood of anxiety, depression, somatisation, post‐traumatic stress disorder, loneliness and substance use. Our study contributes to assessing the multicultural PGD validity, as our results from a large representative sample are comparable to those in other countries with the PGDS. Our findings have direct implications for the assessment and treatment of bereavement, identifying for practitioners variables that make individuals more vulnerable to PGD. Results highlighted the high co‐occurrence of PGD with other psychological illnesses and increased drug use.
What Is Left of Professionalism after Managed Care?
Authors: SULLIVAN WILLIAM M.
Published: October 2023

Modern American medicine has wedded scientific advance to a small business model of the individual practitioner, defining professionalism as technical understanding. If the profession is to survive, it must draw on older ideals of the learned professions as acting on behalf of the community, and reinvigorate a civic understanding of professional life.
Propylene Glycol: The Safe Diluent that Continues to Cause Harm
Authors: Glover Mark L. , Reed Michael D.
Published: October 2023

Propylene glycol (PG) is present in many pharmaceutical products, lotions, ointments, and cosmetics. Although considered to be a relatively safe substance, overdoses have been associated with serious adverse effects. Propylene glycol intoxication occurred in a child and caused central nervous system depression and a severe metabolic acidosis. Initial assessment revealed an elevated serum anion gap, a slight increase in measured serum osmolality, and a normal osmolal gap. The child's acidosis was due to increased concentrations of lactate and pyruvate. The possibility of serious PG intoxication should be considered in any patient with an unexplained serious metabolic acidosis.
The Progression of the Penile Vein: Could It Be Recurrent?
Authors: Chen Shyh‐Chyan , Hsieh Cheng‐Hsing , Hsu Geng‐Long , Wang Chii‐Jye , Wen Hsien‐Sheng , Ling Pei‐Ying , Huang Hsiu‐Mei , Tseng Guo‐Fang
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Our aim was to study retrospectively the destiny of the deep dorsal vein of the penis in the event of its stripping surgery or its simple ligation in patients diagnosed with venoocclusive dysfunction 17 years ago. From June 1986 to May 1987, a total of 31 men were seen for erectile dysfunction due to venous leakage resulting from priapism, aging, or congenital or idiopathic factors. Of these, 23 men underwent venous stripping of the deep dorsal vein and are referred to as the stripping group. The remaining 8 patients received a simple ligation of the deep dorsal vein and are classified as the ligation group. A total of 21 patients (16 of the 23 and 5 out of the 8) were available for follow‐up by using the abridged 5‐item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) scoring system and cavernosograms. In the ligation group, the imaging demonstrates some compensatory veins that are commensurate with impotence postoperatively. In the stripping group, however, the follow‐up cavernosograms disclosed no venous recurrence, but residual ones that were not crucial to the rigidity. The IIEF‐5 scoring in the ligation group changed from a preoperative mean IIEF‐5 score of 10.0 ± 4.5 to 9.8 ± 3.6 postoperatively. In the stripping group, however, the mean preoperative IIEF‐5 score of 9.8 ± 4.1 increased to a mean postoperative IIEF‐5 score of 18.9 ± 2.1. Although there was no significant difference between the 2 groups' preoperative IIEF‐5 score, there was a statistically significant difference between treatments (P < .001). The penile venous vasculature bears no evidence of regeneration even as long as 17 years after their removal. This finding is in contrast to what is commonly believed, that erectile dysfunction will recur about 2 years after ligation of the deep dorsal vein. We therefore believe that the clinical recurrence may not be due to venous regeneration, and penile venous surgery, if properly performed, may be durable, although larger studies will be required.
A Suite of Novel Human Spermatozoal RNAs
Authors: Ostermeier G. Charles , Goodrich Robert J. , Moldenhauer Julie S. , Diamond Michael P. , Krawetz Stephen A.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: We recently described a complex population of spermatozoal coding RNAs that are delivered to the oocyte on fertilization. These are derived throughout spermatogenesis, representing a record of past events. Recently, evidence has been provided that micro‐RNAs are present in testes, suggesting that they might also be carried in ejaculate spermatozoa. To directly test this hypothesis, a unique microarray system capable of directly identifying antisense RNAs and predicted transcripts was utilized. RNA isolated from the ejaculate spermatozoa of 6 normal fertile men was directly hybridized to sense oligonucleotide arrays containing 10 000 elements. This revealed 68 shared RNAs, some of which are similar to those previously defined as micro‐RNAs, whereas others were the antisense of previously in silico‐predicted transcripts. The results and implications of this study are described in this communication.
Particle Distribution in Low‐Volume Capillary‐Loaded Chambers
Authors: Douglas‐Hamilton Diarmaid H. , Smith Nancy G. , Kuster Christopher E. , Vermeiden Jan P. W. , Althouse Gary C.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Accurate determination of sperm concentration in fluid suspension is a critical component in a semen analysis. Inaccurate estimations can lead to misinterpretation of the spermiogram and, in the case of livestock production, can lead to faulty insemination doses, which can adversely affect stud power, fertility, fecundity, and cost effectiveness of breeding programs. Capillary‐loaded slides, like the hemacytometer, have been the standard for calibration of other concentration estimation modalities such as photometry, Coulter counter, flow cytometry, and computer‐automated semen analysis (CASA). Single‐use capillary‐loaded slides, much smaller than the hemacytometer, are frequently used by many of the current CASA systems. As the use of CASA increases, more field reports are suggesting differences between CASA results and hemacytometry. In this article, we establish that these differences are, in large part, due to the Segre‐Silberberg effect, which occurs during Poiseuille flow in high‐gradient fluid flow in thin capillary‐loaded slides. We develop the theory of this phenomenon and derive the scaling and significance of the effect. Finally, we graphically provide a means for predicting the necessary compensation factor when using capillary‐loaded slides to determine sperm concentration.
Characterization of the pancreas of common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus): A light and transmission electron microscope study
Authors: Mohammadi Asreen , Goodarzi Nader
Published: October 2023

The present work was carried out to investigate the structure and ultra structure of the pancreas in the common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus). Totally, five healthy adult pheasant were used. The pancreas was assessed using histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The pancreas was composed of four lobes: dorsal, ventral, third, and splenic lobes. These lobes emptied into ascending duodenum through three excretory ducts as: ventral duct, splenic duct, and a common duct for dorsal and third lobes. The exocrine pancreas was constituted of pyramidal‐shaped acinar cells with aggregation of zymogen granules at their apical cytoplasm. The endocrine pancreas was identified as large islet of Langerhans as α islets and small islets as β ones. No mixed islet was observed. At the level of TEM, two types of acinar cells were distinguished: Dark cells with electron dense cytoplasm, and indented nucleus, Light cells with electron lucent cytoplasm, and regular nucleus. The α islets were mainly constituted by A and D cells, whereas the β islets principally contained B cells and a few A cells. No D cells were identified in β islets. B cells were characterized by their polymorphic granules which were surrounded by a narrow halo zone. The granules of D cells were quite different. These cells contained large spherical granules with lower density as compared to the A or B granules surrounded by a limiting membrane. In conclusion, the pancreas of the common pheasant has a species‐specific feature which must be considered in phylogenic studies.

Research Highlights

The common pheasant's pancreas was composed of four lobes as dorsal, ventral, third, and splenic lobe.

There were three excretory ducts. Ventral duct for ventral lobe, a common duct for both dorsal and third lobes, and a distinct splenic duct for splenic lobe.

The exocrine acini were composed of two distinct types of cells: dark cells and light cells.

The large alpha islets were composed of alpha cells and a few numbers of delta cells and small beta islets were composed of beta cells and a few numbers of alpha cells.
Adsorption of anionic methyl orange dye by polyaniline, poly(o‐methylaniline) and poly(o‐methoxyaniline)
Authors: Sadykov Timur T. , Syakaev Roman S. , Andriianova Anastasia N. , Mustafin Akhat G.
Published: October 2023

This study reports the effect of substituents in the ortho position of polyaniline on the adsorption capacity to remove the anionic dye methyl orange (MO) from an aqueous solution. The aim of this study is the synthesis of polyaniline (PANI) and its derivatives, poly‐o‐methylaniline (poly‐o‐toluidine, POT) and poly‐o‐methoxyaniline (poly‐o‐anisidine, POA) for the adsorption removal of MO dye. All polymers were obtained by oxidative polymerization of the corresponding monomers and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and infrared spectroscopy (IR). The average particle size of the polymer was about 200 nm. The effect of various parameters such as pH, temperature, adsorption time and initial concentration was analyzed. It was found that the adsorption capacity for dye removal increases from 50.68 to 222.56 mg g−1 for PANI, from 16.89 to 66.57 mg g−1 for POT, and from 97.26 to 532.54 mg g−1 for POA with an increase in the initial dye concentration from 5 up to 50 mg L−1. For all polymers, the equilibrium state of MO adsorption was reached in 50 min. The results showed that MO adsorption on PANI, POT, and POA is well described by a pseudo second order kinetic model. Isothermal studies have shown that adsorption is in good agreement with the Langmuir isotherm model, as evidenced by higher values of correlation coefficients. Based on the data of thermodynamic studies, it was concluded that MO adsorption on PANI, POT, and POA is spontaneous and endothermic.
Combined use of lower medial thigh perforator (LMTP) flap and pedicled medial sural artery perforator flap (MSAP) for lateral knee defects coverage after sarcoma resection: A case report and literature review of soft tissue defect around knee reconstruction
Authors: Alban Alice , Meroni Matteo , Fuchs Bruno , Scaglioni Mario F.
Published: October 2023

Reconstruction of knee defects still represents a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. After an extensive resection, the primary aim is to reach a stable result, while maintaining a good range of motion and aesthetic unity. The use of pedicled perforator‐based flaps makes it possible to achieve these goals. Many are the flaps that can be used in this region, and the pedicle medial sural artery perforator (mSAP) flap is considered among one of the first‐choice techniques. The purpose of this case report is to describe for the first time the use of pedicled mSAP flap to cover a lateral knee defect. A 79‐year‐old patient underwent extensive excision of sarcoma on the lateral side of the left knee, with removal of distal portion of the vastus lateralis muscle and portion of the biceps femoris tendon. The resulting defect from the excision measured 10 cm × 10 cm. To cover the postero‐inferior part of the defect we decided to use a mSAP flap, with a skin paddle 10 cm × 5 cm, which was tunneled posteriorly to the popliteal artery and vein in order to reach the affected site. We then used a lower medial thigh perforator (pLMT) flap with a 15 cm × 5 cm skin paddle, rotated by 90° in a propeller fashion to cover the antero‐superior portion of the defect. The decision to use two flaps was justified by the fact we wanted to close the donor areas with direct suturing for a better aesthetic result. The post‐operative course was regular with only a small wound dehiscence that had healed by secondary intention. At 6 months postoperatively, the patient showed a complete active range of motion of the knee joint and absolute aesthetic satisfaction with flaps donor site and knee shape. A review of literature is also provided, with a specific focus on the different procedures for soft tissue defects reconstruction around the knee. According to our experience, the pedicle of the MSAP flap may be safely used as an additional reconstructive option for lateral knee defects.
A community‐endorsed open‐source lexicon for contrast agent–based perfusion MRI: A consensus guidelines report from the ISMRM Open Science Initiative for Perfusion Imaging (OSIPI)
Authors: Dickie Ben R. , Ahmed Zaki , Arvidsson Jonathan , Bell Laura C. , Buckley David L. , Debus Charlotte , Fedorov Andrey , Floca Ralf , Gutmann Ingomar , van der Heijden Rianne A. , van Houdt Petra J. , Sourbron Steven , Thrippleton Michael J. , Quarles Chad , Kompan Ina N. ,   on behalf of The Perfusion Study Group of the ISMRM
Published: October 2023

This manuscript describes the ISMRM OSIPI (Open Science Initiative for Perfusion Imaging) lexicon for dynamic contrast‐enhanced and dynamic susceptibility‐contrast MRI. The lexicon was developed by Taskforce 4.2 of OSIPI to provide standardized definitions of commonly used quantities, models, and analysis processes with the aim of reducing reporting variability. The taskforce was established in February 2020 and consists of medical physicists, engineers, clinicians, data and computer scientists, and DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) standard experts. Members of the taskforce collaborated via a slack channel and quarterly virtual meetings. Members participated by defining lexicon items and reporting formats that were reviewed by at least two other members of the taskforce. Version 1.0.0 of the lexicon was subject to open review from the wider perfusion imaging community between January and March 2022, and endorsed by the Perfusion Study Group of the ISMRM in the summer of 2022. The initial scope of the lexicon was set by the taskforce and defined such that it contained a basic set of quantities, processes, and models to enable users to report an end‐to‐end analysis pipeline including kinetic model fitting. We also provide guidance on how to easily incorporate lexicon items and definitions into free‐text descriptions (e.g., in manuscripts and other documentation) and introduce an XML‐based pipeline encoding format to encode analyses using lexicon definitions in standardized and extensible machine‐readable code. The lexicon is designed to be open‐source and extendable, enabling ongoing expansion of its content. We hope that widespread adoption of lexicon terminology and reporting formats described herein will increase reproducibility within the field.
2,4‐Di‐tert‐butylphenol and 7‐hydroxy‐3‐(2‐methylpropyl)‐2,3,6,7,8,8a‐hexahydropyrrolo[1,2‐a]pyrazine‐1,4‐dione: two natural products from Serratia marcescens Ha1 and their herbicidal activities
Authors: Ma Shujie , Zhao Han , Liu Sijia , Tian Ci , Gao Ming , Wang Yizhen , Dong Jingao , Zhang Lihui
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Weeds are one of the critical factors that negatively affect crop yield and quality. Microbial herbicides are a research hotspot for novel herbicides owing to their environmental safety and lack of weed resistance. In the current study, the active ingredients of Serratia marcescens Ha1, a new microbial herbicide, were investigated for their effectiveness against agricultural weeds using bioassay‐guided fractionation.

RESULTS

The results revealed that petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts of S. marcescens Ha1 had high herbicidal activity. Forty‐nine compounds were identified from the petroleum ether extract, including 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol (DB; C14H22O, 38.82%), ethyl 14‐methyl‐hexadecanoate, 1‐nonadecene, and [1,1′‐biphenyl]‐2,3′‐diol, 3,4′,5,6′‐tetrakis. Of these, DB showed significant inhibitory effects on root and shoot growth in Amaranthus retroflexus, with half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 389.17 and 832.44 mg L−1, respectively. In addition, 7‐hydroxy‐3‐(2‐methylpropyl)‐2,3,6,7,8,8a‐hexahydropyrrolo[1,2‐a]pyrazine‐1,4‐dione (HPD) was identified as the major active ingredient in the ethyl acetate extract of S. marcescens Ha1 using bioassay‐guided fractionation, with IC50 values of 439.86 and 476.95 mg L−1 against A. retroflexus shoot and root growth, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that DB and HPD exert destructive effects on A. retroflexus root, and the damage is gradually aggravated with increasing treatment time and concentration.

CONCLUSION

The S. marcescens Ha1 extract and its active compounds DB and HPD exhibit significant herbicidal activity, which could be utilized further for the development of microbial herbicides. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Facile Synthesis of Efficient Copper Chlorine‐In‐Glass for White Light‐Emitting Diode and Anticounterfeiting
Authors: Ma Xueqing , Zhou Tianrui , Wang Yunluo , Wu Jianghua , Pan Zesheng , Fu Yuntian , Hou Jingshan , Jiang Wan , Wang Lianjun , Chen Haijie
Published: October 2023

Copper halides have attracted extensive interest because of the merits of environmental friendliness, low lost, and superior optoelectronic properties. However, the stability issue heavily hinders their commercial application. Herein, the successful synthesis of copper chlorine in glass using melting‐quenching method under vacuum condition is reported. By introducing CuCl into the glass matrix (CuCl@glass), the as‐fabricated samples emit white or yellow light, which depends on the ratios of CuCl:glass. The maximum values of the photoluminescence quantum yield are found to be 37% and 26%, respectively. With the addition of CsCl, CsCu2Cl3, and Cs3Cu2Cl5 phases form in the glass, leading to the phosphor‐in‐glass which emits green light. A maximum luminous yield of 74% is achieved. Based on the synthesized samples, light‐emitting diodes are successfully prepared by the remote packaging technology, and the utilization of the as‐obtained composites for anticounterfeiting application is realized. Herein, an effective approach for the preparation of lead‐free halide perovskite@glass composites is provided, opening up potential commercial applications.
Tribology and rheology of potato protein and pectin mixtures and Maillard conjugates
Authors: Soltanahmadi Siavash , Wang Mingxin , Gul Mohd Khalid , Stribițcaia Ecaterina , Sarkar Anwesha
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to compare the tribological and rheological properties of plant proteins versus their mixtures or conjugates with polysaccharides. We hypothesize that combining potato proteins (Po) with pectin (Pe) at various concentrations (0.5–5.0 wt%, ratios 1:1 and 1:2 w/w) will improve the lubrication performance of plant proteins by virtue of viscosity modification and boundary lubrication. Po showed shear thinning behavior with limited concentration‐dependence in boundary and mixed lubricity. Pe on the other hand showed pronounced concentration‐dependent flow and lubrication behavior delivering favorable boundary and viscous lubricity. Pe dominated the lubrication and high shear rate flow behavior in Po + Pe mixtures, governed mainly by the concentration of Pe and the hydrodynamic volume rather than the total concentration of the biopolymers. Maillard reaction (≤33% degree of conjugation) led to more negatively‐charged protein‐polysaccharide conjugates versus the sole biopolymers (p < 0.05). The conjugation decreased the second plateau shear viscosity of the Po + Pe mixtures and led to improvement in boundary and mixed lubricity when a reduced entrainment speed parameter was used. Findings from this study may inspire future studies combining plant proteins with polysaccharides to enhance their lubrication behavior and eventually improve the textural properties of plant‐based foods.
Functional Laminated Fiber Scaffold Based on Titanium Monoxide for Lithium Metal‐Based Batteries
Authors: Meng Ting , Ma Fei , Gao Yong , Geng Zeyu , Wang Xiaohan , Chen Jipeng , Zhang Haifeng , Guan Cao
Published: October 2023

Lithium metal‐based rechargeable batteries are attracting increasing attention due to their high theoretical specific capacity and energy density. However, the dendrite growth leads to short circuits or even explosions and rapid depletion of active materials and electrolytes. Here, a functionalized and laminated scaffold (PVDF/TiO@C fiber) based on lithiophilic titanium monoxide is rationally designed to inhibit dendrite growth. Specifically, the bottom TiO@C fiber sublayer provides rich Li nucleation sites and facilitates the formation of stable solid electrolyte interphase. Together with the top lithiophobic PVDF sublayer, the prepared freestanding scaffold can effectively suppress the growth of Li dendrite and ensure stable Li plating/stripping. Based on the dendrite‐free deposition, the Li/PVDF/TiO@ C fiber anode enables over 1000 h at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 in a symmetrical cell and delivers superior electrochemical performance in both Li || LFP and Li–S batteries. The functional laminated fiber scaffold design provides essential insights for obtaining high‐performance lithium metal anodes.
Simultaneously Realizing High Efficiency and High Color Rendering Index for Hybrid White Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes by Ultra‐Thin Design of Delayed Fluorescence Sensitized Phosphorescent Layers
Authors: Liu Zhangshan , Chen Jinke , Chen Letian , Liu Hao , Yang Dezhi , Ma Dongge , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhao Zujin
Published: October 2023

In consideration of energy economization and light quality, concurrently attaining high external quantum efficiency (ηext) and high color rendering index (CRI) is of high significance for the commercialization of hybrid white organic light‐emitting diodes (WOLEDs) but is challenging. Herein, a blue luminescent molecule (2PCz‐XT) consisting of a xanthone acceptor and two 3,6‐diphenylcarbazole donors is prepared, which exhibits strong delayed fluorescence, short delayed fluorescence lifetime, and excellent electroluminescence property, and can sensitize green, orange, and red phosphorescent emitters efficiently. By employing 2PCz‐XT as sensitizer and phosphorescent emitters as dopants, efficient two‐color and three‐color WOLED architectures with ultra‐thin phosphorescent emitting layers (EMLs) are proposed and constructed. By incorporating a thin interlayer to modulate exciton recombination zone and reduce exciton loss, high‐performance three‐color hybrid WOLEDs are finally achieved, providing a high ηext of 26.8% and a high CRI value 83 simultaneously. Further configuration optimization realizes a long device operational lifetime. These WOLEDs with ultra‐thin phosphorescent EMLs are among the state‐of‐the‐art hybrid WOLEDs in the literature, demonstrating the success and applicability of the proposed device design for developing robust hybrid WOLEDs with superb efficiency and color quality.
2D Atomic Layers for CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Yan Xihang , Zhang Jiajing , Hao Gazi , Jiang Wei , Di Jun
Published: October 2023

Artificial photosynthesis can convert carbon dioxide into high value‐added chemicals. However, due to the poor charge separation efficiency and CO2 activation ability, the conversion efficiency of photocatalytic CO2 reduction is greatly restricted. Ultrathin 2D photocatalyst emerges as an alternative to realize the higher CO2 reduction performance. In this review, the basic principle of CO2 photoreduction is introduced, and the types, advantages, and advances of 2D photocatalysts are reviewed in detail including metal oxides, metal chalcogenides, bismuth‐based materials, MXene, metal‐organic framework, and metal‐free materials. Subsequently, the tactics for improving the performance of 2D photocatalysts are introduced in detail via the surface atomic configuration and electronic state tuning such as component tuning, crystal facet control, defect engineering, element doping, cocatalyst modification, polarization, and strain engineering. Finally, the concluding remarks and future development of 2D photocatalysts in CO2 reduction are prospected.
Ruthenium Oxide Clusters Immobilized in Cationic Vacancies of 2D Titanium Oxide for Chlorine Evolution Reaction
Authors: Ji Jiapeng , Liu Junxian , Shi Lei , Guo Siqi , Cheng Ningyan , Liu Porun , Gu Yuantong , Yin Huajie , Zhang Haimin , Zhao Huijun
Published: October 2023

The development of dimensionally stable anodes (DSAs) has made the chlorine evolution reaction (CER) the most important industrial anode reaction since the 1960s. However, the preparation of DSA depends on the extensive use of precious metals, Ru and Ir, which are expensive and scarce. Herein, a cationic defect adsorption–oxidation anchoring strategy to immobilize oxidized sub‐nano ruthenium clusters on 2D low‐crystallinity titanium oxide (2D TiOx) substrate is reported. Through the metal oxide−support interaction, the 2D TiOx alters the electronic structure of ruthenium oxide (RuOx), improving its activity, selectivity, and stability for CER. Specifically, the mass activity of the RuOx/2D TiOx electrode is 26.5 and 143.5 times higher than that of the state‐of‐the‐art commercial RuO2 and DSA, respectively, at an overpotential of 100 mV. Moreover, the selectivity of the RuOx/2D TiOx electrode to CER is approximately 96.5%, and it exhibits remarkable durability lasting for over 210 h. Therefore, the 2D TiOx substrate holds significant potential for improving the dispersion, active site density, and atomic utilization of oxidized sub‐nano noble metal clusters.
Safety, Security, and Self-Censorship as Survival Strategies
Authors: Sharshenova Aijan
Published: October 2023

In this paper, I will discuss concerns of safety and security, and the resulting reluctant self-censorship as one of the many realities associated with the work of a political scientist in Kyrgyzstan. In doing so, I will combine the existing research on self-censorship and working in non-democratic environments with self-reflection as a local political scientist. In particular, this contribution dives into the intangible fear felt by researchers, who find themselves making difficult decisions on a daily basis, where personal security is an object of continuous and sometimes perceived negotiation with an invisible enemy.
The flavor of a light charged Higgs
Authors: Bernal Nicolás , Losada Marta , Nir Yosef , Shpilman Yogev
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The ATLAS Collaboration has recently reported a search for light-charged Higgs in t → H+b decay, with $$ {H}^{+}\to c\overline{b} $$

H
+

→
c

b
¯

. An excess with a local significance of approximately 3σ is found at $$ {m}_{H^{+}} $$

m

H
+

≈ 130 GeV, with a best-fit value of BR(t → H+b) × BR($$ {H}^{+}\to c\overline{b} $$

H
+

→
c

b
¯

) = (1.6 ± 0.6) × 10−3. We study the implications of such a hypothetical signal in multi-Higgs doublet models. We take into account constraints from searches for other charged Higgs decays and from flavor-changing neutral current processes. Two Higgs doublet models with flavor structure dictated by natural flavor conservation (NFC), minimal flavor violation (MFV), or the Froggatt-Nielsen (FN) mechanism cannot account for such excess. A three-Higgs doublet model with NFC can account for the signal. The Yukawa couplings of the neutral pseudoscalar A in the down sector, $$ {\hat{Y}}_A^D $$

Y
̂

A
D

, should be larger by a factor of 4 – 6 compared to the corresponding Yukawa couplings of the Higgs h, $$ {\hat{Y}}_h^D $$

Y
̂

h
D

. We further present two minimal scenarios, one in which a single Yukawa coupling in the down sector, $$ {\left({\hat{Y}}_A^D\right)}_{bb} $$

Y
̂

A
D

bb

, gives the only significant contribution, and one in which two Yukawa couplings in the up sector, $$ {\left({\hat{Y}}_A^U\right)}_{tt} $$

Y
̂

A
U

tt

and $$ {\left({\hat{Y}}_A^U\right)}_{tc} $$

Y
̂

A
U

tc

, give the only significant contributions, and we discuss possible tests of these scenarios.
Towards a more nuanced conceptualisation of differential examiner stringency in OSCEs
Authors: Homer Matt
Published: October 2023

Quantitative measures of systematic differences in OSCE scoring across examiners (often termed examiner stringency) can threaten the validity of examination outcomes. Such effects are usually conceptualised and operationalised based solely on checklist/domain scores in a station, and global grades are not often used in this type of analysis. In this work, a large candidate-level exam dataset is analysed to develop a more sophisticated understanding of examiner stringency. Station scores are modelled based on global grades—with each candidate, station and examiner allowed to vary in their ability/stringency/difficulty in the modelling. In addition, examiners are also allowed to vary in how they discriminate across grades—to our knowledge, this is the first time this has been investigated. Results show that examiners contribute strongly to variance in scoring in two distinct ways—via the traditional conception of score stringency (34% of score variance), but also in how they discriminate in scoring across grades (7%). As one might expect, candidate and station account only for a small amount of score variance at the station-level once candidate grades are accounted for (3% and 2% respectively) with the remainder being residual (54%). Investigation of impacts on station-level candidate pass/fail decisions suggest that examiner differential stringency effects combine to give false positive (candidates passing in error) and false negative (failing in error) rates in stations of around 5% each but at the exam-level this reduces to 0.4% and 3.3% respectively. This work adds to our understanding of examiner behaviour by demonstrating that examiners can vary in qualitatively different ways in their judgments. For institutions, it emphasises the key message that it is important to sample widely from the examiner pool via sufficient stations to ensure OSCE-level decisions are sufficiently defensible. It also suggests that examiner training should include discussion of global grading, and the combined effect of scoring and grading on candidate outcomes.
Compliance to Viral Load Monitoring Schedules Among Women Attending Prevention of Vertical HIV Transmission Services Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ehlanzeni District, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Mbira Thandiwe Elsie , Kufa Tendesayi , Sherman Gayle Gillian , Ngandu Nobubelo Kwanele ,   the PHANGISA Study Team
Published: October 2023

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load (VL) monitoring was likely interrupted during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We used routine data on repeat VL testing among 667 prevention of vertical HIV transmission (PVT) clients in Ehlanzeni district, to determine compliance to VL testing recommendations and associated factors during different time periods: pre-COVID-19, transition, and COVID-19. Descriptive and multivariable Poisson regression analyses were conducted, with and without including revised PVT-guidelines rolled out in January-2020. Among 405 women with ≥ 2 VL tests, the overall median age was 30 years (interquartile range: 26–35 years). Compliance to recommended VL testing guidelines ranged between 81.5% (172/211) and 92.3% (191/207) at different time periods. Across all three periods and when revised PVT-guidelines were used, being compliant was significantly reduced among those with earliest VL = 50–999 copies/ml (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.71 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61–0.82], p value < 0.001) and VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml (IRR = 0.18 [95% CI 0.09–0.36], p value < 0.001). When guideline revisions were excluded, compliance was only significantly reduced among those with VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml (IRR = 0.14 [95% CI 0.06–0.32], p value < 0.001) and increased during the COVID-19 period versus pre-COVID-19 (IRR = 1.10 [95% CI 1.05–1.15], p value < 0.001). Similar significant associations between compliance and VL level were observed when the COVID-19 period was analyzed separately. Significantly increased compliance to VL testing among the 25–34 years age-group versus younger women was also observed across all periods. These results highlight the importance of strengthening strategies such as short message service reminders and educational messaging, reaching all age-groups, to fast-track implementation targets for VL monitoring.
Corporate social responsibility and network externalities: a game-theoretic approach
Authors: Buccella Domenico , Fanti Luciano , Gori Luca , Sodini Mauro
Published: October 2023

This research revisits the pioneering work by Katz and Shapiro (Am Econom Rev 75:424–440, 1985) with network (consumption) externalities in a twofold way: first, it considers Corporate Socially Responsible (CSR), instead of profit-maximising, firms; second, it uses a game-theoretic approach and analyses the commitment decision game in which firms face the binary choice to credibly commit ($$C$$
C
) or not to commit ($$NC$$

NC

) themselves to an announced output level in the first decision-making stage. Competition at the market stage occurs à la Cournot. Results show a rich spectrum of sub-game perfect Nash equilibrium (SPNE) outcomes, ranging from the prisoner’s dilemma (self-interest and mutual benefit of output commitment conflict) to the anti-prisoner’s dilemma or deadlock (self-interest and mutual benefit of output commitment do not conflict), passing from the coordination to the anti-coordination game. These outcomes depend on the intensity of the social concern in the firm’s objective and the network size. The article also pinpoints the welfare outcomes corresponding to the SPNE and extends the analysis to a Stackelberg rivalry setting.
Impact of Local Terrain Features on Urban Airflow
Authors: Coburn Matthew , Vanderwel Christina , Herring Steven , Xie Zheng-Tong
Published: October 2023

Past work has shown that coupling can exist between atmospheric air flows at street scale (O(0.1 km)) and city scale (O(10 km)). It is generally impractical at present to develop high-fidelity urban simulations capable of capturing such effects. This limitation imposes a need to develop better parameterisations for meso-scale models but an information gap exists in that past work has generally focused on simplified urban geometries and assumed the buildings to be on flat ground. This study aimed to begin to address this gap in a systematic way by using the large eddy simulation method with synthetic turbulence inflow boundary conditions to simulate atmospheric air flows over the University of Southampton campus. Both flat and realistic terrains were simulated, including significant local terrain features, such as two valleys with a width about 50 m and a depth about average building height, and a step change of urban roughness height. The numerical data were processed to obtain averaged vertical profiles of time-averaged velocities and second order turbulence statistics. The flat terrain simulation was validated against high resolution particle image velocimetry data, and the impact of uncertainty in defining the turbulence intensity in the synthetic inflow method was assessed. The ratio between realistic and flat terrains of time-mean streamwise velocity at the same ground level height over a terrain crest location can be >2, while over a valley trough it can be <0.5. Further data analysis conclusively showed that the realistic terrain can have a considerable effect on global quantities, such as the depth of the spanwise-averaged internal boundary layer and spatially-averaged turbulent kinetic energy. These highlight the potential impact that local terrain features (O(0.1 km)) may have on near-field dispersion and the urban micro-climate.