bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECTS OF PHOTOPERIOD, TEMPERATURE, AND FOOD SUPPLY ON RATE OF DEVELOPMENT AND DIAPAUSE IN COCCINELLA NOVEMNOTATA,
Authors: McMullen R. D.
Published: December 2009

The optimum temperature for rate of development and survival of immature stages of Coccinella novemnotata Herbst was found to lie between 70° and 80°F. Different photoperiods between 10 and 18 hours per day did not influence rate of development or survival. With a 16-hour photoperiod the mean number of eggs laid per female and mean longevity of females were greater at 70° than at 80°F, but not significantly so. At 90°F egg production was sharply curtailed and most eggs produced were infertile, probably due to inactivation of sperm in the male. Photoperiods of 10, 12, and 18 hours per day induced diapause in a large percentage of adult females; intermediate photoperiods of 14 and 16 hours per day were much less effective. Low temperature and lesser amounts of food available to adult females increased the effectiveness of the short and the long photoperiods for inducing diapause. The stage susceptible to induction of diapause, or conversely the initiation of gonad maturation, was determined to be the young adult from emergence to 7 days of age. The results of experimental data are related to a field study of the biology of this insect in California.
RANGE OF THE ORIENTAL FRUIT MOTH, GRAPHOLITHA MOLESTA, IN APPLES AND PEACHES IN ONTARIO
Authors: Dustan G. G.
Published: December 2009

Surveys in unsprayed apple orchards indicated that the oriental fruit moth, whose principal hosts are peach and apple, does not occur in continuing populations on apple beyond the range of commercial peach orchards in Ontario. Moths released in an apple orchard 25 mi from the nearest peach orchard did not result in an infestation after the first winter. High winter mortality due to low temperatures and the unsuitability of apple for the first generation of the moth probably are the main reasons it does not establish continuing infestation on apple alone.
TAXONOMIC REVIEW OF THE RHYACIONIA FRUSTRANA GROUP OF PINE-TIP MOTHS, WITH DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES (OLETHREUTIDAE)
Authors: Miller William E.
Published: December 2009

The Rhyacionia frustrana group of pine-tip moths consists of at least three species: true R. frustrana (Comstock), which occurs from Central America and northern Florida north to Missouri and Massachusetts; R. sonia n. sp., present from southern Maine west to southern Manitoba; and R. bushnelli Busck, which occurs from New Mexico north to Nebraska and eastern Montana. Adults of all three species are superficially identical. A lectotype is designated to establish the identity of R. frustrana, and R. sonia is described as new to science on the basis of markedly differing genitalia. R. bushnelli, long regarded as a domestic introduction of R. frustrana, seems more likely a distinct species endemic to the western plains because of its differing overwintering habit and size.
A NEW SPECIES OF GAURAX (DIPTERA: CHLOROPIDAE) FROM QUEBEC AND ONTARIO
Authors: Peterson B. V.
Published: December 2009

Gaurax patelainae, a new species reared from the bracket fungus, Polyporus betulinus Bull. ex Fr., is described from Quebec and Ontario.
CAUSAL AGENTS OF SILVER TOP AND OTHER TYPES OF DAMAGE TO GRASS SEED CROPS
Authors: Arnott D. A. , Bergis I.
Published: December 2009

Studies during 1962–64 showed that the mites Siteroptes graminum (Reut.) and Aceria tulipae Keifer, thrips, and the fungus, Fusarium poae (Pk.) Wr., were not causal agents of silver top in the Peace River region, and indicated leafhoppers were probably not involved. The fact that silver top is controlled with insecticides, but not with miticides, constituted strong evidence for insects as causal agents. In 1963, extensive examination of grasses with silver top revealed minute, inconspicuous punctures, 0.01 to 0.04 mm in diameter through leaf sheaths which were typical of chose made by insects with piercing and sucking mouthparts such as plant bugs. In 1964, attempts to produce silver top by infesting grass plants with plant bugs, leafhoppers, and spittlebugs were unsuccessful for reasons in-explainable. Non-appearance of silver top in either infested or uninfested plants, however, indicated the causal agent was not present in the plants or attached soil when collecred from fields in mid-May. Further studies in 1965 showed that grasses affected by silver top were infested with the plant bugs Stenodema trispinosum Reut., S. vicinum (Prov.), Litomiris debilis Uhl., Capsus simulans Stal., and Trigonotylus ruficornis (Geof.). Experimental infestation of plants with these bugs showed that they fed on stems by puncturing through leaf sheaths and so damaging stem tissue as to cause silver top. In 1966, examination of grasses with silver top from southern Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Oregon revealed punctures in leaf sheaths opposite areas of stem injury, indicating that plant bugs probably cause silver top in these regions.
CATALOGUE OF THE SWAINE TYPES OF SCOLYTIDAE (COLEOPTERA) WITH DESIGNATIONS OF LECTOTYPES
Authors: Bright Donald E.
Published: December 2009

The types of the species of North American Scolytidae (Coleoptera) described by J. M. Swaine are catalogued. Holotypes of 62 species are listed and 48 lectotypes are selected. All types, with a few noted exceptions, are in the Canadian National Collection, Ottawa.
POPULATION STUDIES OF THE GARDEN SYMPHYLAN, SCUTIGERELLA IMMACULATA (SYMPHYLA: SCUTIGERELLIDAE)
Authors: Waterhouse J. Stallard
Published: December 2009

The garden symphylan (Scutigerella immaculata Newport) population of a field of table beets, Beta vulgaris L., in northwestern Oregon, was studied. The number of symphylans from the samples ranged from 110 to 1131 per cubic foot with an average of 557. Several laboratory tests were conducted to study garden symphylan population increases in soil types treated differently. It was found that garden symphylans reproduce well in soil types such as Felida, Salkum, and Melbourne. Manure added to these soils increases their porosity, probably supplies additional foodstuff, and consequently provides the best rearing medium.
THE INFLUENCE OF HIVE POSITION AND ORIENTATION CUES ON THE DRIFTING OF HONEY-BEES (APIS MELLIFERA) IN A FLIGHT AND REARING ROOM
Authors: Nelson E. V. , Jay S. C.
Published: December 2009

Drifting of honey-bees in a bee flight and rearing room quickly results in imbalances in hive populations. Orientation cues (coloured walls, coloured boards over the hive entrances, symbols on the walls, and objects located in the room) do not reduce drifting. Hive position in the room affects the direction of drifting, with one colony gathering-in a high proportion of the drifting bees.
THE IMMATURE INSTARS OF ALBIA CAERULEA (ACARINA: AXONOPSIDAE), A WATER MITE PARASITIZING CADDISFLIES (TRICHOPTERA)
Authors: Crowell Robert M.
Published: December 2009

The water mite Albia caerulea Marshall, 1927, is reported from Lake Opinicon, Leeds Co., Ont. Descriptions and figures of larvae and of nymphs reared from them are presented. The occurrence of this mite on caddisflies (Leptocerus americanus (Banks), Trianodes sp., and Leptocella sp.) is recorded.
THE EGG-LAYING BEHAVIOR OF 11 SPECIES OF LYTTINAE (COLEOPTERA: MELOIDAE)
Authors: Church Norman Stanley
Published: December 2009

Behavior patterns associated with egg-laying are proposed as a potentially valuable source of taxonomic characters for blister beetles that excavate oviposition chambers in the soil. Methods of digging the burrows and covering the eggs are complex and stereotyped and often differ considerably from one species to another. Relationships among species of Lytta, Linsleya, and Epicauta suggested by their nesting behavior are compared with those indicated by other characteristics.
PHENOLOGICAL NOTES ON A NON-MIGRATING POPULATION OF PINEUS FLOCCUS (HOMOPTERA: CHERMIDAE)
Authors: DeBoo R. F. , Weidhaas J. A.
Published: December 2009

Pineus floccus Patch is an occasional pest of ornamental spruces in eastern North America which produces unsightly galls at branch extremities. Damage to the specific alternate host, eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.), may result in lateral shoot injury similar to that reported for P. pinifoliae (Fitch) by DeBoo, Dimond, and Lowe (1964). However, outbreaks of P. floccus are uncommon, with populations regulated at low levels throughout most of its distribution.
DISPOSABLE CAGE AND POT FOR VIRUS TRANSMISSION STUDIES WITH LEAFHOPPERS
Authors: Richardson H. P. , Westdal P. H.
Published: December 2009

The cage and pot described here were used successfully in extensive studies on the transmission of aster yellows virus by the six spotted leafhopper, Macrosteles fascifrons (Stål) (Richardson 1966). The use of this composite unit results in a saving of labour, cost, and greenhouse space.

The materials for the testing unit consist of a round peat pot, 3 in. in diameter and 3 in. deep, and a 1-lb polyethylene bag approximately 8 in. long, with an opening 3 in. in diameter. The seedling growing in the pot is covered by the inverted bag and the mouth of the bag is then pulled down over the rim of the pot and secured with a rubber band (Fig. 1). Several hundred small holes are made in the bag to permit air exchange.
POPULATION STUDIES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS MITES AND PREDATORS ON APPLE IN SOUTHWESTERN QUEBEC
Authors: Parent B.
Published: December 2009

Ecological studies, undertaken to determine the fluctuations of phytophagous mites and predators in apple orchards, were conducted in 1955, 1956, and 1957 at Rougemont, Que., in two plots sprayed only with fungicides for the control of apple scab, Venturia inaequalis (Cke) Wint., and in a third one sprayed, in addition to fungicides, with all insecticides needed for the control of destructive insects. Phytophagous mites were more numerous in the plot sprayed with insecticides than in plots sprayed only with fungicides, and densities of the mites in the latter plots were inversely proportional to densities of predators. A similar relationship existed in the insecticide plot between the amount of chemicals used and numbers of predators present. The principal mite predators were Typhlodromus rhenanus (Oudms.), most effective against the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, and Mediolata mali (Ewing), most effective against the European red mite, Panonychus ulmi (Koch).
IDENTIFICATION AND DESCRIPTIONS OF AEDES EGGS FROM CALIFORNIA AND NEVADA (DIPTERA: CULICIDAE)
Authors: Myers Charles M.
Published: December 2009

A key and measurements are presented for the eggs of 23 species of Aedes. Twenty species from California and Nevada are illustrated, and eleven previously undescribed eggs are described.
THE WINTER MOTH, OPEROPHTERA BRUMATA (LEPIDOPTERA: GEOMETRIDAE), A NEW PEST ATTACKING APPLE ORCHARDS IN NOVA SCOTIA, AND ITS COLDHARDINESS
Authors: MacPhee A. W.
Published: December 2009

The winter moth, Operophtera brumata (L.), a recent introduction to North America, is a serious pest of apple in Nova Scotia. Natural controls, mainly the parasite Cyzenis albicans (Fall.), reduce its rate of increase, and selective chemical controls are applied to maintain economic levels. Its maximum density is limited by its food supply in neglected orchards. The mean freezing point of O. brumata winter eggs is −31°F. Egg mortality increases appreciably with increase of duration of exposure to low temperatures in the −26°F to −34°F vulnerable range. It seems probable that winter moth will continue to spread slowly over much of Eastern North America.
FOOD SOURCES AND PREFERENCES OF ADULTS OF A PARASITE, SCAMBUS BUOLIANAE (HYM.: ICHN.), AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES
Authors: Leius K.
Published: December 2009

Females of Scambus buolianae did not lay eggs when deprived of food in the form of host tissues throughout adult life. Greatest egg-production and longest life resulted when that food was continuously available. Average egg-production was reduced to under one-third, and longevity reduced to two-thirds or one-half, in females that were permitted to feed on host body fluids only intermittently or that were deprived of them after the first 15 days of adult life. No eggs were laid by females deprived for the first 20 days, and longevity was reduced to one-third. However, absence of host body fluid as food during the first 15 days only did not significantly reduce egg-production or length of life. Tests showed females of S. buolianae have distinct and similar relative preferences for different host species as sources of body tissues for food. Both sexes showed distinct and similar preferences for species of wild flowers as sources of carbohydrate. The results support earlier findings and show that the presence or absence of suitable foods for the adults may determine whether or not an introduced parasite can establish itself, and can influence the effectiveness of existing parasites as biological control agents.
THE FLYING SEASON AND EMERGENCE PERIOD OF ANAX JUNIUS IN ILLINOIS (ODONATA: AESHNIDAE)
Authors: Young Allen M.
Published: December 2009

The flying season (sensu lato) and emergence period of Anax junius Drury were determined by routine counts of adults and exuvial collections at a small woodland pond m northern Illinois. The flying season, in this case including activity of apparently young adults, was from April to mid-November. Emergence listed 55 days (26 August to 19 October 1965), the pattern being of the "summer" species type. Before emergence began all adults appeared to be mature and oviposition was often seen. After emergence began, apparently young adults predominated and no oviposition was seen.
OPIUS LECTUS AND O. ALLOEUS (HYMENOPTERA: BRACONIDAE), LARVAL PARASITES OF THE APPLE MAGGOT, RHAGOLETIS POMONELLA (DIPTERA: TRYPETIDAE), IN QUEBEC
Authors: Rivard I.
Published: December 2009

Two braconids, Opius lectus Gah. and O. alloeus Mues., are being reported for the first time in Quebec as parasites of the apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh).
OLFACTORY RESPONSES OF HYLASTES NIGRINUS (COLEOPTERA: SCOLYTIDAE) TO VARIOUS HOST MATERIALS
Authors: Rudinsky J. A. , Zethner-Møller O.
Published: December 2009

Hylastes nigrinus (Mann.) is attracted to, and breeds in, the roots of both cut and beetle-killed Douglas-fir trees; the latter are preferred. The beetles reach the roots by digging through the soil. Bark samples taken from trees of various physiological condition and placed in field olfactometers showed that the beetle prefers the bark of insect-killed trees, although bark taken from healthy Douglas-firs became attractive after some time. Among the various terpenes tested, α-pinene and β-pinene were most attractive, in addition to Douglas-fir resin itself.
A REVIEW OF THE GENUS CACTOPINUS, WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF TWO NEW SPECIES AND A NEW GENUS (COLEOPTERA: SCOLYTIDAE)
Authors: Bright Donald E.
Published: December 2009

The bark-beetle genus Cactopinus, containing seven species, is reviewed. Distributional data, biological notes, a discussion of each species, and a key for the separation of all species are included. New species are: C. desertus (California) and C. depressus (San Luis Potosi, Mexico). C. cactophthorus Wood and C. mexicanus Wood are placed in a new genus, Cactopinorus.
WEIGHT AND DEVELOPMENT TIME OF DIFFERENT STADIA OF MOSQUITOES REARED AT VARIOUS CONSTANT TEMPERATURES
Authors: Brust R. A.
Published: December 2009

Development time decreased with each increase in rearing temperature in Aedes vexans, A. nigromaculis, and Culiseta inornata until the optimum survival temperature was reached. The optimum survival temperature for A. vexans was 26.5 °C, for A. nigromaculis 21 °C, and for C. inornata 21 °C. Dry weight gain per hour in female larvae was greater than in male larvae in all three species, at all temperatures. There was a significant reduction in weight in each larval instar, pupal, and adult stage, with each 5.5 °C increase in rearing temperature. Times to larval–pupal ecdysis and pupal–adult ecdysis were the same for males and females of A. nigromaculis at all developmental temperatures tested. Time to larval–pupal ecdysis and pupal–adult ecdysis in A. vexans and C. inornata occurred 1 to several days later in females, depending upon the developmental temperature. In all three species the duration of the fourth instar was longest and the specific weight gain greatest.
Despite New Recommendations, the Debate Over Mammography Guidelines Continues
Authors: Rubin Rita
Published: May 2024

This Medical News story discusses new USPSTF recommendations about the timing of screening mammograms.
Cumulative Systolic Blood Pressure and Incident Stroke Type Variation by Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Johnson Kimson E. , Li Hanyu , Zhang Min , Springer Mellanie V. , Galecki Andrzej T. , Whitney Rachael T. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Hayward Rodney A. , Sidney Stephen , Elkind Mitchell S. V. , Longstreth W. T. , Heckbert Susan R. , Gerber Yariv , Sullivan Kevin J. , Levine Deborah A.
Published: May 2024

Importance

Stroke risk varies by systolic blood pressure (SBP), race, and ethnicity. The association between cumulative mean SBP and incident stroke type is unclear, and whether this association differs by race and ethnicity remains unknown.

Objective

To examine the association between cumulative mean SBP and first incident stroke among 3 major stroke types—ischemic stroke (IS), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)—and explore how these associations vary by race and ethnicity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Individual participant data from 6 US longitudinal cohorts (January 1, 1971, to December 31, 2019) were pooled. The analysis was performed from January 1, 2022, to January 2, 2024. The median follow-up was 21.6 (IQR, 13.6-31.8) years.

Exposure

Time-dependent cumulative mean SBP.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was time from baseline visit to first incident stroke. Secondary outcomes consisted of time to first incident IS, ICH, and SAH.

Results

Among 40 016 participants, 38 167 who were 18 years or older at baseline with no history of stroke and at least 1 SBP measurement before the first incident stroke were included in the analysis. Of these, 54.0% were women; 25.0% were Black, 8.9% were Hispanic of any race, and 66.2% were White. The mean (SD) age at baseline was 53.4 (17.0) years and the mean (SD) SBP at baseline was 136.9 (20.4) mm Hg. A 10–mm Hg higher cumulative mean SBP was associated with a higher risk of overall stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 1.20 [95% CI, 1.18-1.23]), IS (HR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.17-1.22]), and ICH (HR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.25-1.38]) but not SAH (HR, 1.13 [95% CI, 0.99-1.29]; P = .06). Compared with White participants, Black participants had a higher risk of IS (HR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.09-1.33]) and ICH (HR, 1.67 [95% CI, 1.30-2.13]) and Hispanic participants of any race had a higher risk of SAH (HR, 3.81 [95% CI, 1.29-11.22]). There was no consistent evidence that race and ethnicity modified the association of cumulative mean SBP with first incident stroke and stroke type.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that cumulative mean SBP was associated with incident stroke type, but the associations did not differ by race and ethnicity. Culturally informed stroke prevention programs should address modifiable risk factors such as SBP along with social determinants of health and structural inequities in society.
Estimated Prevalence of Resident-to-Resident Aggression in Assisted Living
Authors: Pillemer Karl , Teresi Jeanne A. , Ramirez Mildred , Eimicke Joseph , Silver Stephanie , Boratgis Gabriel , Meador Rhoda , Schultz Leslie , Kong Jian , Ocepek-Welikson Katja , Chang E-Shien , Lachs Mark S.
Published: May 2024

Importance

Resident-to-resident aggression in assisted living facilities can result in physical and psychological harm, but its prevalence is unknown.

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of resident-to-resident aggression, including physical, verbal, and sexual, among residents in assisted living facilities.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study used cross-sectional, observational data from a clinical trial, in which residents of assisted living facilities were monitored for events over a 1-month period. All residents of 14 large facilities randomly selected from 2 geographic locations (N = 1067), except those receiving hospice care (n = 11), were invited to participate; 93 died or moved prior to enrollment. There were 33 family and resident refusals; 930 residents were enrolled. Data were collected between May 30, 2018, and August 11, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The data are from a clinical trial testing the effectiveness of an intervention to reduce resident-to-resident aggression. In addition, the study was designed to assess prevalence using the Time 1 (baseline) data, using a probability sample of facilities to allow for this analysis. Resident-to-resident aggression was identified using a mixed-method, case-finding strategy involving 6 sources: (1) cognitively capable resident reports regarding 22 possible events, (2) direct care staff report, (3) staff member reports collected from event-reporting forms, (4) research assistant observation of events in real time, (5) facility accident or incident reports, and (6) resident records.

Results

The prevalence of resident-to-resident aggression among the 930 participants (mean [SD] age, 88.0 [7.2] years; 738 women [79.4%]) during the past month was estimated to be 15.2% (141 of 930 residents; 95% CI, 12.1%-18.8%). The most common forms of aggression included verbal (11.2% [104 of 930 residents; 95% CI, 8.8%-14.2%]), physical (41 of 930 residents; 4.4% [95% CI, 3.1%-6.3%]), sexual (0.8% [7 of 930 residents; 95% CI, 0.4%-1.6%]), and other (70 of 930 residents; 7.5% [95% CI, 5.5%-10.2%]). These categories are not mutually exclusive as residents could be involved with more than 1 type of aggressive behavior.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional, observational prevalence study, resident-to-resident aggression in assisted living facilities was highly prevalent. Verbal aggression was the most common form, and physical aggression also occurred frequently. The effects of resident-to-resident aggression can be both morbid and mortal; therefore, intervention research is needed to prevent it and to treat it when it occurs.
Ligand‐to‐Metal Charge Transfer Motivated the Whole‐Voltage‐Range Anionic Redox in P2‐Type Layered Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Tang Anchun , Zhao Ruixuan , Wu Yuan , Wan Chubin , Li Zhengyao , Meng Xianhe , Sun Kai , Li Ruikai , Zhang Hexiang , Chen Dongfeng , Ju Xin
Published: May 2024

Anionic redox in layered transition metal oxides (TMOs) cathodes presents significant opportunities for achieving high energy density batteries. However, the O 2p non‐bonding state can only undergo redox at high voltages and is often accompanied by severe structural distortion. In this study, the whole‐voltage‐range anionic redox has successfully been achieved in Metal‐organic frameworks (MOF) derived chemically homogeneous P2‐Na0.67Ni0.2Mg0.2Mn0.6O2 (NNMMO). Through a systematic analysis of the orbital combinations of TMs and O, it is found that the Mg‐induced O 2p non‐bonding state as an electron donor, forming strong π‐type interactions between Ni 3d spin‐down t2g orbitals. The resulting π‐configurational oxygen occupies an anti‐bonding state just below the Fermi level, exhibiting high oxidation activity and stability. Additionally, the high covalency between Mn and O increases the strength of the Mn–O bond, mitigating the structural aberration of NNMMO. As a result, NNMMO demonstrates a high capacity of 216 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and stable battery performance, with a capacity retention of ≈90% after 500 cycles at 2 C. This π‐type anionic redox and intrinsic competition mechanism present an alternative strategy for achieving advanced cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries.
Modulation of Unregulated Inflammation‐Associated Coagulopathy in Sepsis Using Multifunctional Nanosheets
Authors: Xiao Yongqiang , Fang He , Wang Xin , Liu Ming , Shen Tuo , Zhang Mei , Xia Zhaofan , Leong Kam W. , Ma Duan , Ma Jing , Tu Zhaoxu , Zhang Tianyu
Published: May 2024

Excessive inflammation‐associated unregulated coagulation leads to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and mortality in patients with sepsis worldwide, and current clinical treatment is unsatisfactory. Recent studies have shown that circulating cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), act as potent pro‐inflammation and pro‐coagulation agents, revealing a mechanistic link between innate immunity and coagulation. After establishing a definite correlation between cfDNA and dysfunctional inflammation and coagulation disorders in samples from patients with sepsis, a novel 2D, sheet‐like, cationic cfDNA scavenger using polyamidoamine (P‐G1) and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) covered with black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets, called BP‐G1AMP, are fabricated. It is found that BP‐G1AMP significantly suppressed bacterial growth and ameliorated the systemic inflammatory response, associated coagulation disorder, and DIC, resulting in improved survival in a cecal ligation puncture (CLP) mouse sepsis model. This study proposes a novel strategy for fabricating multifunctional nanosheets that can ameliorate inflammation‐associated coagulation during sepsis treatment. These findings demonstrate the importance of 2D nanostructures in the construction of multivalent anti‐bacterial and anti‐coagulation nanoplatforms.
Oriented‐Electrochemical Etching of Zn Crystal Edges in Deep Eutectic Solvent for Enhancing Stability and Reversibility of Zn Anodes
Authors: Nie Wei , Tian Feng , Zhang Le , Chang Linhui , Sun Qiangchao , Duan Tong , Lu Xionggang , Cheng Hongwei
Published: May 2024

Metal Zn anode encounters uncontrolled dendrite growth, resulting in poor cycling stability and low coulombic efficiency (CE). Herein, a novel approach for oriented‐electrochemical etching of Zn (ECE‐Zn) in deep eutectic solvent (DES) is presented to adjust the interface concentration and electric fields, effectively mitigating intractable issues. The oriented etches off the crystal edges between the (002), (100), and (101) principal crystal planes of commercial Zn foil, subsequently etches the (100) and (101) crystal planes, resulting in the formation well‐organized Zn columns. Comprehensive experimental investigations and theoretical analyses reveal that Zn ions directionally nucleate and grow between Zn columns, enabling epitaxial growth at the (002) crystal plane. The ECE‐Zn‐2 anodes demonstrate remarkable stability, along with low nucleation and polarization voltages. Specifically, the symmetric ECE‐Zn‐2 cells show sustained operation for 5400 h, and long‐term 10 000 cycles at 40 mA cm−2. More significantly, the asymmetric cells exhibit an average CE as high as 99.92% over 6000 cycles at 5.0 mA cm−2. When assembled with a V2O5 cathode, a high retention of 81.5% can be maintained even under severe condition (N/P ratio of 7.35). This strategy of oriented‐electrochemical etching for commercial Zn opens up a new pathway for dendrite‐free Zn metal anode.
Circularly Polarized Photoluminescence in Chiral Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Manganese Halide Perovskites: From Bulk Materials to Exfoliated Flakes
Authors: Asensio Yaiza , Bahmani Jalali Houman , Marras Sergio , Gobbi Marco , Casanova Fèlix , Mateo‐Alonso Aurelio , Di Stasio Francesco , Rivilla Ivan , Hueso Luis E. , Martín‐García Beatriz
Published: May 2024

Layered hybrid organic–inorganic metal‐halide perovskites (HOIPs) can acquire chirality from molecules incorporated into their structure showing exciting possibilities in optoelectronics and spintronics. However, researchers have focused their attention on the study of bulk compounds, namely unstable and toxic Pb HOIPs. Herein, the chiroptical properties of R‐ and S‐β‐methylphenethylammonium Mn chloride HOIPs are reported in both the bulk and the few‐layer limit as exfoliated flakes. Red photoluminescence (PL) emission originating from the octahedrally coordinated Mn2+ is observed, with a PL shift to longer wavelengths when passing from bulk to flakes. Circular dichroism and circularly polarized PL mirrored‐signals for enantiomers are found in bulk samples, while in flakes, a degree of circularly polarized emission (P) of up to 17% at 80 K is achieved, comparable to Pb‐based HOIPs. Moreover, angle‐resolved PL measurements on flakes show that the PL emission and P are isotropic. These findings highlight the potential of these HOIPs from bulk to flakes for spin‐optoelectronic applications.
Highly efficient organic light‐emitting diodes and light‐emitting electrochemical cells employing multiresonant thermally activated delayed fluorescent emitters with bulky donor or acceptor peripheral groups
Authors: Wang Jingxiang , Hafeez Hassan , Tang Shi , Matulaitis Tomas , Edman Ludvig , Samuel Ifor D. W. , Zysman‐Colman Eli
Published: May 2024

Multiresonant thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) emitters have been the focus of extensive design efforts as they are recognized to show bright, narrowband emission, which makes them very appealing for display applications. However, the planar geometry and relatively large singlet–triplet energy gap lead to, respectively, severe aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) and slow reverse intersystem crossing (RISC). Here, a design strategy is proposed to address both issues. Two MR‐TADF emitters triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO)‐tBu‐DiKTa and triphenylamine (TPA)‐tBu‐DiKTa have been synthesized. Twisted ortho‐substituted groups help increase the intermolecular distance and largely suppress the ACQ. In addition, the contributions from intermolecular charge transfer states in the case of TPA‐tBu‐DiKTa help to accelerate RISC. The organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) with TPPO‐tBu‐DiKTa and TPA‐tBu‐DiKTa exhibit high maximum external quantum efficiencies (EQEmax) of 24.4% and 31.0%, respectively. Notably, the device with 25 wt% TPA‐tBu‐DiKTa showed both high EQEmax of 28.0% and reduced efficiency roll‐off (19.9% EQE at 1000 cd m−2) compared to the device with 5 wt% emitter (31.0% EQEmax and 11.0% EQE at 1000 cd m−2). The new emitters were also introduced into single‐layer light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs), equipped with air‐stable electrodes. The LEC containing TPA‐tBu‐DiKTa dispersed at 0.5 wt% in a matrix comprising a mobility‐balanced blend‐host and an ionic liquid electrolyte delivered blue luminance with an EQEmax of 2.6% at 425 cd m−2. The high efficiencies of the OLEDs and LECs with TPA‐tBu‐DiKTa illustrate the potential for improving device performance when the DiKTa core is decorated with twisted bulky donors.
A pilot study comparing the initial clinical response to different proton pump inhibitors within first week in treating erosive esophagitis
Authors: Liao Min‐Kai , Lin Tsung‐Jung , Lee Hsi‐Chang , Lin Chih‐Lin , Chen Kuan‐Yang , Wu Deng‐Chyang
Published: May 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) characterized by heartburn and/or acid regurgitation symptoms is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. The rapid onset of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to improve annoying symptom is an essential need in treating GERD. There was no report about the short‐term clinical effects comparing lansoprazole 30 mg to rabeprazole 20 mg. This pilot study was designed to compare the initial one‐week clinical response of the two drugs in GERD with erosive esophagitis. Total 44 patients with GERD were enrolled in this study and randomized into two groups. The patients had the symptoms of acid regurgitation, heartburn, or feeling of acidity in the stomach and erosive esophagitis proven by endoscopy. They respectively received once‐daily dose of lansoprazole 30 mg (n = 23) and rabeprazole 20 mg (n = 21) for treatment of GERD. The primary end point was complete symptom resolution (CSR). The CSR rate was evaluated by questionnaire including acid regurgitation, heartburn sensation and epigastric pain at day 1, 3 and 7. Two patients in the arm of rabeprazole had poor compliance of drugs and were excluded from analysis. The final patient numbers were 23 in the arm of lansoprazole and 19 in rabeprazole. The baseline characteristics of two groups were similar in age, gender, body mass index (BMI), Helicobacter pylori infection, GERD severity, smoking, alcohol, coffee, spicy, sweet food and laboratory data. The ingestion of tea was the only one variable with significant difference between the two groups (65.2% and 31.58%, p = .03). At day 1, 3 and 7, the CSR rate of lansoprazole and rabeprazole were 21.74% and 26.32% (p = 1.000), 34.78% and 31.58% (p = .827), 47.83% and 47.37% (p = .976), respectively. The other clinical factors, including age, gender, BMI, Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, alcohol, coffee, tea, spicy, sweet food and laboratory data, have also no significant influence on CSR rates at day 1, 3, 7. However, the patients with GERD C and D had significantly higher CSR rate than patients with GERD A and B at day 1 and 7 (CSR rate at day 1: 50.00% vs. 15.63, p = .040; day 3: 60.00% vs. 25.00%, p = .059; day 7: 90.00% vs. 34.38%, p = .003). In multivariate regression analysis, the patients with GERD C and D still had significantly higher CSR rate than patients with GERD A and B at day 7 (Odds ratio: 28.27, 95% CI: 2.10–380.03, p = .012). The CSR rates between lansoprazole group and rabeprazole group at day 1, 3, 7 were not significantly different, so the difference of PPIs did not play the role on the initial clinical response within 1 week for the erosive GERD patients. However, the patients with more severe erosive GERD on endoscopy had higher CSR rate at day 7.
Fluorinated Surface Engineering Towards High‐Rate and Durable Potassium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Zhang Xixue , Wu Feng , Fang Difan , Chen Renjie , Li Li
Published: May 2024

Solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) crucially affects the rate performance and cycling lifespan, yet to date more extensive research is still needed in potassium‐ion batteries. We report an ultra‐thin and KF‐enriched SEI triggered by tuned fluorinated surface design in electrode. Our results reveal that fluorination engineering alters the interfacial chemical environment to facilitate inherited electronic conductivity, enhance adsorption ability of potassium, induce localized surface polarization to guide electrolyte decomposition behavior for SEI formation, and especially, enrich the KF crystals in SEI by self‐sacrifice from C−F bond cleavage. Hence, the regulated fluorinated electrode with generated ultra‐thin, uniform, and KF‐enriched SEI shows improved capacity of 439.3 mAh g−1 (3.82 mAh cm−2), boosted rate performance (202.3 mAh g−1 at 8.70 mA cm−2) and durable cycling performance (even under high loading of ~8.7 mg cm−2). We expect this practical engineering principle to open up new opportunities for upgrading the development of potassium‐ion batteries.
Experimental study on the effect of circulating liquid velocity on bubble size distribution and turbulence characteristic in an external loop airlift reactor
Authors: Lu Xia , Lu Xiuqing , Yang Kai , Zheng Xiaotao , Wang Shixian
Published: May 2024

The influence of circulating liquid velocity on bubble size distribution (BSD) and turbulence characteristics of an external loop airlift reactor was studied in this paper. The instantaneous and time‐averaged velocity in the riser were studied using particle image velocimetry (PIV), and BSDs were measured by digital image analysis technique based on machine learning. Then turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) and energy dissipation rate (EDR) were calculated through the velocity field. The results indicate that as the circulating liquid velocity increased, the peak value of BSD rapidly decreased from nearly 6 mm to approximately 2 mm. The radial velocity of the liquid gradually decreased and changed direction, eventually increasing again. TKE first decreased and then increased. Compared with bubble flow with a BSD peak of 2–6 mm, bubble flow with a BSD peak of 2 mm had larger TKE. The radial movement of bubbles had great influence on the turbulence characteristics. This study demonstrates that selecting an appropriate circulating liquid velocity can reduce the diameter of bubbles while obtaining greater TKE, thereby improving the mass transfer and reaction efficiency in external loop airlift reactors (EL‐ALR).
Plasticity mechanisms of genetically distinct Purkinje cells
Authors: Voerman Stijn , Broersen Robin , Swagemakers Sigrid M. A. , De Zeeuw Chris I. , van der Spek Peter J.
Published: May 2024

Despite its uniform appearance, the cerebellar cortex is highly heterogeneous in terms of structure, genetics and physiology. Purkinje cells (PCs), the principal and sole output neurons of the cerebellar cortex, can be categorized into multiple populations that differentially express molecular markers and display distinctive physiological features. Such features include action potential rate, but also their propensity for synaptic and intrinsic plasticity. However, the precise molecular and genetic factors that correlate with the differential physiological properties of PCs remain elusive. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of the cellular mechanisms that regulate PC activity and plasticity. We further perform a pathway analysis to highlight how molecular characteristics of specific PC populations may influence their physiology and plasticity mechanisms.
Reinventing shake flask fermentation: The breathable flask
Authors: Kumar Vikash , Tolosa Michael , Ge Xudong , Rao Govind
Published: May 2024

Cultivating cells in shake flasks is a routine operation that is largely unchanged since its inception. A glass or plastic Erlenmeyer vessel with the primary gas exchange taking place across various porous plugs is used with media volumes typically ranging from 100 mL to 2 L. Oxygen limitation and carbon dioxide accumulation in the vessel is a major concern for studies involving shake flask cultures. In this study, we enhance mass transfer in a conventional shake flask by replacing the body wall with a permeable membrane. Naturally occurring concentration gradient across the permeable membrane walls facilitates the movement of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the flask and the external environment. The modified flask called the breathable flask, has shown a 40% improvement in mass transfer coefficient (kLa) determined using the static diffusion method. The prokaryotic cell culture studies performed with Escherichia coli showed an improvement of 28%–66% in biomass and 41%–56% in recombinant product yield. The eukaryotic cell culture study performed with Pichia pastoris expressing proinsulin exhibited a 40% improvement in biomass and 115% improvement in protein yield. The study demonstrates a novel approach to addressing the mass transfer limitations in conventional shake flask cultures. The proposed flask amplifies its value by providing a membrane‐diffusion‐based sensing platform for the integration of low‐cost, noninvasive sensing capabilities for real‐time monitoring of critical cell culture parameters like dissolved oxygen and dissolved carbon dioxide.
Organometallic ruthenium complexes derived from anthracene and pyrene chromophores: Synthesis and photophysical properties
Authors: Gupta Gajendra , Choe Yena , Kim Suhyun , Lee Junseong , Bang Jiwon , Lee Chang Yeon
Published: May 2024

Two new monopyridyl‐based Anthracene and Pyrene ligands were synthesized and employed to design Ruthenium‐coordinated organometallic complexes, RuAnthra and RuPyrene, respectively. The ligands and their metal complexes were fully characterized by different analytical techniques, including multinuclear 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR, electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry, UV–Vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Furthermore, their photophysical properties were studied in different solvents with increasing polarity using UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy, showing less or no significant solvolysis effect. The average emission lifetimes of the complexes were further determined using time‐resolved emission spectroscopy. Additionally, the ligands and their metal complexes showed excellent ability to generate singlet oxygen and can be useful for several important potential applications.
Electroacupuncture modulates abnormal brain connectivity after ischemia reperfusion injury in rats: A graph theory‐based approach
Authors: Li Si‐Si , Xing Xiang‐Xin , Hua Xu‐Yun , Zhang Yu‐Wen , Wu Jia‐Jia , Shan Chun‐Lei , Wang He , Zheng Mou‐Xiong , Xu Jian‐Guang
Published: May 2024

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been shown to facilitate brain plasticity‐related functional recovery following ischemic stroke. The functional magnetic resonance imaging technique can be used to determine the range and mode of brain activation. After stroke, EA has been shown to alter brain connectivity, whereas EA's effect on brain network topology properties remains unclear. An evaluation of EA's effects on global and nodal topological properties in rats with ischemia reperfusion was conducted in this study.

Methods and results

There were three groups of adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats: sham‐operated group (sham group), middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) group, and MCAO/R plus EA (MCAO/R + EA) group. The differences in global and nodal topological properties, including shortest path length, global efficiency, local efficiency, small‐worldness index, betweenness centrality (BC), and degree centrality (DC) were estimated. Graphical network analyses revealed that, as compared with the sham group, the MCAO/R group demonstrated a decrease in BC value in the right ventral hippocampus and increased BC in the right substantia nigra, accompanied by increased DC in the left nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh). The BC was increased in the right hippocampus ventral and decreased in the right substantia nigra after EA intervention, and MCAO/R + EA resulted in a decreased DC in left AcbSh compared to MCAO/R.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide a potential basis for EA to promote cognitive and motor function recovery after ischemic stroke.
Investigating disparities in smoking cessation treatment for veterans with multiple sclerosis: A national analysis
Authors: Polick Carri S. , Dennis Paul , Calhoun Patrick S. , Braley Tiffany J. , Lee Eunice , Wilson Sarah
Published: May 2024

Background and aims

Smoking is a risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS) development, symptom burden, decreased medication efficacy, and increased disease‐related mortality. Veterans with MS (VwMS) smoke at critically high rates; however, treatment rates and possible disparities are unknown. To promote equitable treatment, we aim to investigate smoking cessation prescription practices for VwMS across social determinant factors.

Methods

We extracted data from the national Veterans Health Administration electronic health records between October 1, 2017, and September 30, 2018. To derive marginal estimates of the association of MS with receipt of smoking‐cessation pharmacotherapy, we used propensity score matching through the extreme gradient boosting machine learning model. VwMS who smoke were matched with veterans without MS who smoke on factors including age, race, depression, and healthcare visits. To assess the marginal association of MS with different cessation treatments, we used logistic regression and conducted stratified analyses by sex, race, and ethnicity.

Results

The matched sample achieved a good balance across most covariates, compared to the pre‐match sample. VwMS (n = 3320) had decreased odds of receiving prescriptions for nicotine patches ([Odds Ratio]OR = 0.86, p < .01), non‐patch nicotine replacement therapy (NRT; OR = 0.81, p < .001), and standard practice dual NRT (OR = 0.77, p < .01), compared to matches without MS (n = 13,280). Men with MS had lower odds of receiving prescriptions for nicotine patches (OR = 0.88, p = .05), non‐patch NRT (OR = 0.77, p < .001), and dual NRT (OR = 0.72, p < .001). Similarly, Black VwMS had lower odds of receiving prescriptions for patches (OR = 0.62, p < .001), non‐patch NRT (OR = 0.75, p < .05), and dual NRT (OR = 0.52, p < .01). The odds of receiving prescriptions for bupropion or varenicline did not differ between VwMS and matches without MS.

Conclusion

VwMS received significantly less smoking cessation treatment, compared to matched controls without MS, showing a critical gap in health services as VwMS are not receiving dual NRT as the standard of care. Prescription rates were especially lower for male and Black VwMS, suggesting that under‐represented demographic groups outside of the white female category, most often considered as the “traditional MS” group, could be under‐treated regarding smoking cessation support. This foundational work will help inform future work to promote equitable treatment and implementation of cessation interventions for people living with MS.
Detecting language network alterations in mild cognitive impairment using task‐based fMRI and resting‐state fMRI: A comparative study
Authors: Kemik Kerem , Ada Emel , Çavuşoğlu Berrin , Aykaç Cansu , Savaş Derya Durusu Emek , Yener Görsev
Published: May 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the functional changes associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) using independent component analysis (ICA) with the word generation task functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and resting‐state fMRI.

Methods

In this study 17 patients with MCI and age and education‐matched 17 healthy individuals as control group are investigated. All participants underwent resting‐state fMRI and task‐based fMRI while performing the word generation task. ICA was used to identify the appropriate independent components (ICs) and their associated networks. The Dice Coefficient method was used to determine the relevance of the ICs to the networks of interest.

Results

IC‐14 was found relevant to language network in both resting‐state and task‐based fMRI, IC‐4 to visual, and IC‐28 to dorsal attention network (DAN) in word generation task‐based fMRI by Sorento‐Dice Coefficient. ICA showed increased activation in language network, which had a larger voxel size in resting‐state functional MRI than word generation task‐based fMRI in the bilateral lingual gyrus. Right temporo‐occipital fusiform cortex, right hippocampus, and right thalamus were also activated in the task‐based fMRI. Decreased activation was found in DAN and visual network MCI patients in word generation task‐based fMRI.

Conclusion

Task‐based fMRI and ICA are more sophisticated and reliable tools in evaluation cognitive impairments in language processing. Our findings support the neural mechanisms of the cognitive impairments in MCI.
Circular economy in agro food supply chain: Bibliometric and network analysis
Authors: Banerjee Pranay , Singh Deeksha , Kunja Sambashiva Rao
Published: May 2024

Recently, there has been growing interest among scholars and industry professionals in understanding how agro‐food supply chains can shift from a linear to a circular model. This involves managing waste, recovering resources, and adopting sustainable practices. However, knowledge on circular economies in agro‐food supply chains is scattered, with limited comprehensive studies available. To address this gap, our study conducts a bibliometric and network analysis of 364 documents from the Scopus database. We identify influential authors, contributing countries and journals, and most cited documents. Additionally, we use network analysis to visualize connections between authors and keywords, providing insights into emerging trends and critical research areas. We also uncover important keywords and themes, laying a foundation for future research directions. Overall, our study offers a comprehensive overview, serving as a basis for further exploration in this field.