bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legacy effects of historical grazing alter leaf stomatal characteristics in progeny plants
Authors: Yin Jingjing , Li Xiliang , Guo Huiqin , Zhang Jize , Kong Lingqi , Ren Weibo
Published: June 2020

Grazing, one of the primary utilization modes of grassland, is the main cause of grassland degradation. Historical overgrazing results in dwarf phenotype and decreased photosynthesis of perennial plants. However, it remains unknown what the mechanism underlying of this legacy effect is, and the role of stomata in the resulting decreased photosynthesis also remains unclear. To address these questions, differences in stomatal density, length and width on both adaxial and abaxial epidermis were compared between overgrazing and ungrazed Leymus chinensis offspring by using rhizome buds cultivated in a greenhouse, and the correlation between photosynthetic capacity and stomatal behavior was also investigated. Our results showed that historical grazing significantly impacted phenotype, photosynthesis and stomatal traits of L. chinensis. The offspring plants taken from overgrazed parents were dwarfed compared to those taken from ungrazed parents, and the photosynthesis and stomatal conductance of plants with a grazing history decreased by 28.6% and 21.3%, respectively. In addition, stomatal density and length on adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces were significantly increased; however, stomatal width on abaxial leaf surfaces of overgrazed L. chinensis was significantly decreased compared with ungrazed individuals. Moreover, the expression patterns of eight genes related to stomatal regulation were tested: seven were down-regulated (2–18 times) and one was up-regulated (three times). Genes, involved in ABC transporter and receptor-like serine/threonine protein kinase were down-regulated. These results suggest that legacy effects of historical grazing affect the stomatal conductance by decreasing the stomatal width in progeny plants, which thus results in lower photosynthesis. Furthermore, changes of stomatal traits and function were regulated by the inhibition of ABC transporter and serine/threonine protein kinase. These findings are helpful for future exploration of the possible mechanisms underlying the response of grassland plants to long-term overgrazing.
Near-infrared-light pre-treatment attenuates noise-induced hearing loss in mice
Authors: Basta Dietmar , Gröschel Moritz , Strübing Ira , Boyle Patrick , Fröhlich Felix , Ernst Arne , Seidl Rainer
Published: June 2020

Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is accompanied by a reduction of cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons. Different approaches have been applied to prevent noise induced apoptosis / necrosis. Physical intervention is one technique currently under investigation. Specific wavelengths within the near-infrared light (NIR)-spectrum are known to influence cytochrome-c-oxidase activity, which leads in turn to a decrease in apoptotic mechanisms. It has been shown recently that NIR can significantly decrease the cochlear hair cell loss if applied daily for 12 days after a noise exposure. However, it is still unclear if a single NIR-treatment, just before a noise exposure, could induce similar protective effects. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of a single NIR-pre-treatment aimed at preventing or limiting NIHL. The cochleae of adult NMRI-mice were pre-treated with NIR-light (808 nm, 120 mW) for 5, 10, 20, 30 or 40 minutes via the external ear canal. All animals were noised exposed immediately after the pre-treatment by broad band noise (5–20 kHz) for 30 minutes at 115 dB SPL. Frequency specific ABR-recordings to determine auditory threshold shift were carried out before the pre-treatment and two weeks after the noise exposure. The amplitude increase for wave IV and cochlear hair cell loss were determined. A further group of similar mice was noise exposed only and served as a control for the NIR pre-exposed groups. Two weeks after noise exposure, the ABR threshold shifts of NIR-treated animals were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of the control animals. The significance was at three frequencies for the 5-minute pre-treatment group and across the entire frequency range for all other treatment groups. Due to NIR light, the amplitude of wave four deteriorates significantly less after noise exposure than in controls. The NIR pre-treatment had no effect on the loss of outer hair cells, which was just as high with or without NIR-light pre-exposure. Relative to the entire number of outer hair cells across the whole cochlea, outer hair cell loss was rather negligible. No inner hair cell loss whatever was detected. Our results suggest that a single NIR pre-treatment induces a very effective protection of cochlear structures from noise exposure. Pre-exposure of 10 min seems to emerge as the optimal dosage for our experimental setup. A saturated effect occurred with higher dosage-treatments. These results are relevant for protection of residual hearing in otoneurosurgery such as cochlear implantation.
Factors Affecting Productivity and Marketing Channel of Household Level Dairy Farming, Bangladesh
Authors: Antor Sabyasachi Chanda , Mahmud Asif , Das Kanon , Rahman Sufianur , Islam Tauhidul
Published: June 2020

Aims: This study was conducted to explore the factors affecting dairy production and marketing value chain, value addition at a Household level in Mollahat upazila of Bagerhat District, Bangladesh.

Methodology: For the implication of the study cluster sampling technique was used and data was collected from 80 dairy households. A Cobb-Douglas production function was used to identify the factors affecting dairy production and marketing margin was used to measure value addition as well as deriving marketing channel.

Results: Marketing Channel of dairy farming showed that 50% of milk were channeled through by farmer-milkman-sweetshop-consumer and only 10% of milk directly channeled in both directly local market and home delivery. By analyzing data, the study got human labor, utilities, medicine have a positive correlation with milk yield of the milk cow. But it was found that straw and green grass have a negative correlation with the milk yield of the cow due to excessive use of it. The main observation was that all of the resources were not fully utilized by those households.

Conclusion: Despite being smallholder and subsistence, if the farmers increase the amount of resource use in dairy rearing then milk production will be increased and the smallholder’s socio-economic conditions will be better.
Teacher Motivation: Does It Matter to Primary School Teachers in Their Practice?
Authors: Jinot Belle Louis , Savitree Horil-Khulputeea
Published: June 2020

Motivation is a fundamental concept of professionalism and efficacy for teachers. The present study investigated the motivational factors that affect the performance of primary school teachers in Mauritius. Governments have in the past come up with major educational reforms, but many shortcomings of the education system have influenced teacher motivation. The empirical data was analysed by using mixed methods with a semi-structured questionnaire and interviews from practising teachers to allow the researcher to draw valid conclusions. The purposive and convenient sampling was used for the case study research design. The findings indicated that the motivation of teachers was influenced by several aspects of their job. Teachers were not motivated due to excessive parental involvement, a lack of discipline of pupils inside and outside the classroom, unwilling learners and poor working conditions. However, most of them were more intrinsically than extrinsically motivated. It was also found that the Ministry of Education had a significant influence on their motivation, especially in the context of the Nine Year Continuous Basic Education reform. The researcher recommended that teaching materials and further teacher training should be provided to teachers and the management staff should be trained in using effective leadership and management of schools.
Characterization of Clay Modified with Alkali Extracted from Plantain Peels
Authors: Oniya Oluwole Oluwatoyin , Dada Ebenezer Olujimi , Adekunle Ibrahim Adewale , Arinko Akeem Olanrewaju , Salawudeen Taofeeq Olalekan
Published: June 2020

Modification of clays and clay minerals by using chemical reagents is receiving research attention due to the use of clay in various industrial applications where it may be utilized as adsorbent and catalyst carriers among others. The employed synthetic chemicals, however, unavoidably result in high costs and generate negative impact within the environment. The option to replace the synthetic compounds with non-synthetic materials to cut down cost and to reduce environmental impact has not been properly explored. In this study, the effect of KOH extracted from plantain peel obtained locally on clay modification was investigated. A varying concentration of the extracted KOH was used to treat the clay obtained at Asa River valley in Kwara State in Nigeria. Characterization of the modified clay samples was carried out using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray Florescence (XRF) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The micro structural images of the modified clays clearly showed the effect of KOH concentrations on porosity enhancement in the selected samples. X-ray fluorescence analysis of the Kaolin showed a high silica and aluminum content while an appreciable increase in K2O was also observed in the modified clay compared to the raw Kaolin. The FTIR spectra of the modified clay showed the formation of some functional groups (O-H, C-H, C=C, C-O, Al-O-Si,) within the band range of 500 to 4000 cm-1. It can be concluded that the clay treated with alkali obtained from green source can effectively replace those produced via conventional methods which involve the use of synthetic materials.
Primary Nutritional Guidance at Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Karnal Erika Mundin , Fabian Júlia , Carlesso Liziane Cássia , Gelinski Jane Mary L. N.
Published: June 2020

Aims: To propose a primary nutritional recommendation for patients in the early stage of SLE to contribute to a better quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Methodology: This is a theoretical study, with no direct approach or intervention to any patient. The research was carried out using a conceptual approach based on a narrative and explanatory literature review. The main key descriptors of health were: Lupus and skin lesions; butterfly wing or arthritis, nutrition and lupus. After that, a diet (with a menu) for primary nutritional guidance to patients with early symptoms was followed.

Results: The scientific literature evaluates that Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, autoimmune inflammatory disease, with no cure, which can have multiple causes (hormonal, infectious, genetic and environmental). The production of autoantibodies in tissues, generated from recognized apoptotic fragments, processed and associated with the Principal Human Histocompatibility Complex are also characteristic of SLE. In addition, SLE is mainly characterized by the involvement of the skin, joints, kidneys and serous membranes. The symptoms of SLE vary according to the stage of the disease, affecting different organs, tissues and, in more severe cases, the central and peripheral nervous system. The incidence of SLE is about ten times higher in females and affects more commonly Afro-American, Hispanic and Asian people. In addition, the individual's eating habits and nutritional status can influence the intensity and worsening of symptoms. Regarding nutritional guidance, it is of utmost importance to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances in the diet, avoiding the exaggeration of bad fats, refined carbohydrates, and proteins.

Conclusion: SLE patients should receive a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach, including follow-up by a nutritionist, who will prioritize the maintenance of the patient's adequate weight, avoiding overloading of his joints. This will contribute for a better quality of life for those affected.
Two‐Year Changes in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features and Pain in Thumb Base Osteoarthritis
Authors: van Beest Sjoerd , Kroon Herman M. , Reijnierse Monique , Rosendaal Frits R. , Kloppenburg Margreet , Kroon Féline P. B.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To investigate the two‐year course of pain and osteoarthritic features on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the thumb base.

Methods

Patients in the Hand Osteoarthritis in Secondary Care (HOSTAS) cohort who had received radiographic examination, MRI, and clinical examination of the right thumb base at baseline and who had a 2‐year follow‐up period were studied. Pain on palpation of the thumb base was assessed on a 0–3 scale. MRIs were analyzed with the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) thumb base osteoarthritis MRI scoring system for synovitis, bone marrow lesions (BMLs), subchondral bone defects, cartilage space loss, osteophytes, and subluxation. Radiographs were assessed for osteophytes and joint space narrowing. We studied the associations of changes in synovitis and BMLs with changes in pain using a logistic regression model adjusted for radiographic damage, with values expressed as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

Of 165 patients, 83% were women and the mean age was 60.7 years. At baseline, 65 patients had thumb base pain. At 2‐year follow‐up, pain had decreased in 32 patients and increased in 33 patients. MRI features remained stable in most patients. Structural MRI features generally deteriorated, while synovitis and BMLs improved in some individuals and deteriorated in others. Change in radiographic osteophytes rarely occurred (n = 10). Increased synovitis (odds ratio [OR] 3.4 [95% CI 1.3–9.3]) and increased BMLs (OR 5.1 [95% CI 2.1–12.6]) were associated with increased pain. Decreased BMLs appeared to be associated with decreased pain (OR 2.7 [95% CI 0.8–8.9]), and reductions in synovitis occurred too infrequently to calculate associations.

Conclusion

Over 2 years, thumb base pain fluctuated, while MRI features changed in a minority of patients with hand osteoarthritis. Changes in synovitis and BMLs were associated with changes in pain on palpation, even after adjustment for radiographic damage.
Treatment Sequences After Discontinuing a Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comparison of Cycling Versus Swapping Strategies
Authors: Karpes Matusevich Aliza R. , Duan Zhigang , Zhao Hui , Lal Lincy S. , Chan Wenyaw , Suarez‐Almazor María E. , Giordano Sharon H. , Swint J. Michael , Lopez‐Olivo Maria A.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the sequences of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) and non‐TNFi used by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients whose initial TNFi therapy has failed, and to evaluate effectiveness and costs.

Methods

Using the Truven Health MarketScan Research database, we analyzed claims of commercially insured adult patients with RA who switched to their second biologic or targeted disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug between January 2008 and December 2015. Our primary outcome was the frequency of treatment sequences. Our secondary outcomes were the time to therapy discontinuation, drug adherence, and drug and other health care costs.

Results

Among 10,442 RA patients identified, 36.5% swapped to a non‐TNFi drug, most commonly abatacept (54.2%). The remaining 63.5% cycled to a second TNFi, most commonly adalimumab (41.2%). For subsequent switches of therapy, non‐TNFi were more common. Patients who swapped to a non‐TNFi were significantly older and had more comorbidities than those who cycled to a TNFi (P < 0.001). Survival analysis showed a longer time to discontinuation for non‐TNFi than for TNFi (median 605 days compared with 489 days; P < 0.001) when used after initial TNFi discontinuation, but no difference in subsequent switches of therapy. Although non‐TNFi were less expensive for adherent patients, cycling to a TNFi was associated with lower costs overall.

Conclusion

Even though patients are more likely to cycle to a second TNFi than swap to a non‐TNFi, those who swap to a non‐TNFi are more likely to persist with the therapy. However, cycling to a TNFi is the less costly strategy.
Filtered adaptive constrained sampled‐data control for uncertain multivariable nonlinear systems
Authors: Ma Tong
Published: June 2020

A filtered adaptive constrained sampled‐data controller for uncertain multivariable nonlinear systems in the presence of various constraints is synthesized in this paper. A piecewise constant adaptive law drives that estimation error dynamics to zero at each sampling time instant yields adaptive parameters. The filtered control scheme consists of two components. Based on an estimation/cancellation strategy, a disturbance rejection control law is designed to compensate the nonlinear uncertainties within the bandwidth of low‐pass filters, whereas a constraint violation avoidance control law is designed to solve an online constrained optimization problem. Although a reduced sampling time helps to minimize the estimation error caused by the neglect of unknowns, the resulting aggressive signals put more restrictions on the control law. Greater sacrifice of tracking performance is required to satisfy the constraints. The constraints violation avoidance control law is in favor of a larger sampling time. Sufficient conditions are given to guarantee the stability of the closed‐loop system with the sampled‐data controller, where the input/output signals are held constant over the sampling period. Numerical examples are provided to validate the theoretical results, comparisons between the constrained sampled‐data controller and unconstrained adaptive controller with the implementation of different sampling times are carried
out.
3D Printing Silicone Elastomer for Patient‐Specific Wearable Pulse Oximeter
Authors: Abdollahi Sara , Markvicka Eric J. , Majidi Carmel , Feinberg Adam W.
Published: June 2020

Commercial pulse oximeters are used clinically to measure heart rate and blood oxygen saturation and traditionally made from rigid materials. However, these devices are unsuitable for continuous monitoring due to poor fit and mechanical mismatch. Soft materials that match the elastic properties of biological tissue provide improved comfort and signal‐to‐noise but typically require molding to manufacture, limiting the speed and ease of customizing for patient‐specific anatomy. Here, freeform reversible embedding (FRE) 3D printing is used to create polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer cuffs for use on the hand and foot. FRE enables printing liquid PDMS prepolymer in 3D geometries within a sacrificial hydrogel bath that provides support during cure. This serves as proof‐of‐concept for fabricating patient‐specific pulse oximeters with pressure sensing, termed P3‐wearable. A sizing analysis establishes dimensional accuracy of FRE‐printed PDMS compared to anatomical computer‐aided design models. The P3‐wearable successfully outputs photoplethysmography (PPG) and pressure amplitude signals wirelessly to a tablet in real time and the PPG is used to calculate heart rate, blood oxygen content, and activity state. The results establish that FRE printing of PDMS can be used to fabricate patient‐specific wearable devices and measure heart rate and blood oxygenation on par with commercial devices.
Controlling the Release of Neurotrophin‐3 and Chondroitinase ABC Enhances the Efficacy of Nerve Guidance Conduits
Authors: Donsante Anthony , Xue Jiajia , Poth Kelly M. , Hardcastle Nathan S. , Diniz Bruna , O'Connor Deirdre M. , Xia Younan , Boulis Nicholas M.
Published: June 2020

Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have the potential to replace autografts in repairing peripheral nerve injuries, but their efficacy still needs to be improved. The efficacy of NGCs is augmented by neurotrophic factors that promote axon growth and by enzymes capable of degrading molecules that inhibit axon growth. In the current study, two types of NGCs loaded with factors (both neurotrophin‐3 and chondroitinase ABC) are constructed and their abilities to repair an 8 mm gap in the rat sciatic nerve are examined. The factors are encapsulated in microparticles made of a phase‐change material (PCM) or collagen and then sandwiched between two layers of electrospun fibers. The use of PCM allows to achieve pulsed release of the factors upon irradiation with a near‐infrared laser. The use of collagen enables slow, continuous release via diffusion. The efficacy is evaluated by measuring compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) in the gastrocnemius muscle and analyzing the nerve histology. Continuous release of the factors from collagen results in enhanced CMAP amplitude and increased axon counts in the distal nerve relative to the plain conduit. In contrast, pulsed release of the same factors from PCM shows a markedly adverse impact on the efficacy, possibly by inhibiting axon growth.
Bioactive MOFs Based Theranostic Agent for Highly Effective Combination of Multimodal Imaging and Chemo‐Phototherapy
Authors: Zhu Yuda , Xin Nini , Qiao Zi , Chen Suping , Zeng Lingwan , Zhang Yusheng , Wei Dan , Sun Jing , Fan Hongsong
Published: June 2020

Bioactive metal–organic frameworks (bio‐MOFs) built from biofunctional metal ions and linkers show a new strategy to construct multifunctional theranostic platforms. Herein, a bio‐MOF is synthetized via the self‐assembling of Fe3+ ions and doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) molecules. Then, through a stepwise assembly strategy, another bio‐MOFs structure consisting of Gd3+ ions and 1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylic acid (H3BTC) is wrapped on the surfaces of Fe‐DOX nanoparticles, followed by adsorbing photosensitizer indocyanine green (ICG). Specifically, the Gd‐MOF shell structure can not only act as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but also provides protection for Fe‐DOX cores, controlling the release of DOX. The photoacoustic and photothermal imaging (PAI and PTI) methods are successfully introduced to the platform by loading ICG, providing potential applications for multimodal biological imaging. The in vitro and in vivo outcomes indicate that the Fe‐DOX@Gd‐MOF‐ICG nanoplatform exhibits outstanding synergistic antitumor performance via MR/PA/PT imaging guided chemotherapy, photothermal and photodynamic combination therapy. The work may encourage further exploration of bio‐MOFs based multifunctional theranostic platforms for multimodal imaging guided compound antitumor therapy, which will open an avenue of MOFs toward biological applications.
Decoupled pH‐ and Thermo‐Responsive Injectable Chitosan/PNIPAM Hydrogel via Thiol‐Ene Click Chemistry for Potential Applications in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ding Haichang , Li Baoqiang , Liu Zonglin , Liu Gang , Pu Shouzhi , Feng Yujie , Jia Dechang , Zhou Yu
Published: June 2020

Stimuli‐responsive chitosan (CS) hydrogels exhibit great potential for drug delivery and tissue engineering; however, the structure of these stimuli‐responsive CS hydrogels, such as dual pH‐ and thermo‐responsive hydrogels, is difficult to control or needs additional crosslinking agents. Here, a new dual pH‐ and thermo‐responsive hydrogel system is developed by combining pH‐responsive C6‐OH allyl‐modified CS (OAL‐CS) with thermo‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM). The thiol groups in PNIPAM and the allyl groups in OAL‐CS can rapidly form crosslinking hydrogel network by “thiol‐ene” click chemistry under UV irradiation. As expected, the swelling ratio of the OAL‐CS/PNIPAM hydrogel can be controlled by changing pH and temperature. Moreover, the hydrogel displays non‐cytotoxic nature toward human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, and the histological analyses reveal the subcutaneous tissue with no signs of inflammation after 5 days of injection in vivo. The results indicate that the new OAL‐CS/PNIPAM hydrogel has potential to serve as a smart injectable platform for application in drug delivery and tissue engineering.
A Manually Reconfigurable Reflective Spatial Sound Modulator for Ultrasonic Waves in Air
Authors: Prat‐Camps Jordi , Christopoulos Giorgos , Hardwick James , Subramanian Sriram
Published: June 2020

Precise control of ultrasonic acoustic waves with frequencies f ≳ 20 kHz is useful in a range of applications from ultrasonic scanners to nondestructive testing and consumer haptic devices. A spatial sound modulator (SSM) is the acoustic analogy to the spatial light modulator (SLM) in optics and is highly sought after by acoustics researchers. A spatial sound modulator is constrained by very distinct practical conditions. Namely, it must be a reconfigurable device which modulates sound arbitrarily from a decoupled source. Here a reflective phase modulating device is realized, whose local units can be tuned to imprint a phase signature to an incoming wave. It is manually reconfigurable and consists of 1024 rigidly ended square waveguides with sliding bottom surfaces to provide variable phase delays. Experiments demonstrate the ability of this device to focus ultrasonic waves in air at different points in space, generate accurate pressure landscapes, and perform multiplane holography. Moreover, thanks to the subwavelength nature of the unit cells, this device outperforms state‐of‐the‐art phased‐array transducers of the same size in the quality and energy distribution of generated acoustic holographic images. These results pave the way for the construction of electronically controlled reflective SSMs.
Towards a Chipless and Wireless Passive System for Real‐Time Encoding of the Bladder Volume
Authors: Melloni Filippo , Bonacchini Giorgio E. , Lanzani Guglielmo , Caironi Mario
Published: June 2020

Neurogenic bladder and other lower urinary tract dysfunctions represent a significant health hazard and life‐quality impairment in individuals suffering from neurological disorders. A few implantable and wearable technologies have been proposed to partially recover bladder functionality, mostly based on resistive and capacitive strain gauges designed to be surgically placed inside the pelvic cavity. In this work, an alternative proof‐of‐concept device for monitoring the volumetric changes of the bladder is presented, where the sensing element is based on a capacitive linear encoder integrated with a passive wireless radio‐frequency resonator, which can be remotely interrogated. The sliding mechanism at the core of the proposed system allows a wide sensing range without stringent requirements on materials properties and overall device stability.
Microtrench‐Patterned Elastomeric Substrate for Stretchable Electronics with Minimal Interference by Bodily Motion
Authors: Lee Jaedeuk , Roh Eun , Lee Nae‐Eung
Published: June 2020

Challenges associated with local stress concentration on layers in stretchable devices under mechanical deformation by bodily motions, which causes strain‐induced signal interference and generates cracks, constitute one of the remaining issues for realization of skin‐attachable stretchable electronics. Herein, a new structural engineering approach is introduced for an elastomeric substrate, a microtrench‐patterned stretchable substrate, in which microtrenches are formed on the substrate backside, effectively mitigating local stress on the surface layers under stretching. Combining the microtrench pattern on the backside and 3D stress‐absorbing microstructured surface on the frontside of the elastomeric substrate for stress engineering results in effective suppression of stress concentration on the crack‐prone carbon paste electrode and piezoresistive pressure sensing layer on the frontside surface due to stress‐concentration on microtrench pattern and, in turn, minimal change in their resistance with deformation. This approach using a simple and facile method to minimize stress in device layers under motion‐induced deformation has great potential for applications of diverse materials for body‐attachable stretchable electronics with minimal strain‐responsiveness.
Exploring the Possibility of β‐Phase Arsenic‐Phosphorus Polymorph Monolayer as Anode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Khossossi Nabil , Shukla Vivekanand , Benhouria Younes , Essaoudi Ismail , Ainane Abdelmajid , Ahuja Rajeev , Babu Ganguli , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: June 2020

Graphite anode have shown commercial success for over two decades, since the start of their use in commercial Li‐ion batteries, due to their high practical specific capacity, conductivity, and low lithiation potential. Graphite is to a large extent thermodynamically unfavorable for sodium‐ion intercalation and thus limits advancement in Na‐ion batteries. In this work, a β‐phase arsenic‐phosphorus monolayer is studied, which has recently been predicted to have semiconducting behavior and to be dynamically stable. First‐principles calculations based on density functional theory are used to explore the role of β‐AsP monolayer as a negative electrode for Na‐ion batteries. Cohesive energy, phonon spectrum, and molecule dynamics simulations confirm the thermodynamic stability and the possibility of experimentally synthesizing this material. The Na‐ion adsorption‐energies are found to be high (>−1.2 eV) on both sides (As‐ and P‐side). The ultra‐fast energy barriers for Na (0.046/0.053 V) over both sides imply high diffusion of Na‐ions on the surfaces of β‐AsP. During the evaluation of Na‐ion anode performance, the fully sodiated state is found to be Na2AsP, which yields a high theoretical‐specific capacity of 506.16 mAh g−1 and low average sodiation potential of 0.43 V versus Na/Na+.
An Integrated Chemiluminescence Microreactor for Ultrastrong and Long‐Lasting Light Emission
Authors: Xiao Zhenyu , Wang Yutong , Xu Ben , Du Shunfu , Fan Weidong , Cao Dongwei , Deng Ying , Zhang Liangliang , Wang Lei , Sun Daofeng
Published: June 2020

A porous metal–organic framework [Ba(H2LLOMe 2−)·DMF·H2O]·2DMF (UPC‐2) (H4LLOMe = 4ʹ,4ʹʹʹ‐(2,3,6,7‐tetramethoxyanthracene‐9,10‐diyl)bis([1,1ʹ‐biphenyl]‐3,5‐dicarbo‐xylic acid N,N‐Dimethylformamide [DMF]), which can act as an excellent chemiluminescence microreactor, is designed and constructed. In the framework of UPC‐2, the catalytic Ba cluster and electron‐rich anthracene fluorescent centers are fixed and interconnected in an orderly fashion, and this can shorten the energy transfer path and weaken the relaxation of the chemiluminescence process. Meanwhile, the rhombic channels of UPC‐2 can provide a proper diffusion ratio of reactants to support a stable and continuous energy supply. The UPC‐2 chemiluminescence microreactor exhibits an ultrastrong and long‐lasting light emission, which possesses potential application in emergency lights and biological mapping. The concept of the chemiluminescence microreactor and its construction using a metal–organic framework as a platform will promote further research in the design and fabrication of functional MOFs for chemiluminescence applications.
Near‐IR to Near‐IR Upconversion Luminescence in Molecular Chromium Ytterbium Salts
Authors: Kalmbach Jens , Wang Cui , You Yi , Förster Christoph , Schubert Hartmut , Heinze Katja , Resch‐Genger Ute , Seitz Michael
Published: June 2020

Upconversion photoluminescence in hetero‐oligonuclear metal complex architectures featuring organic ligands is an interesting but still rarely observed phenomenon, despite its great potential from a basic research and application perspective. In this context, a new photonic material consisting of molecular chromium(III) and ytterbium(III) complex ions was developed that exhibits excitation‐power density‐dependent cooperative sensitization of the chromium‐centered 2E/2T1 phosphorescence at approximately 775 nm after excitation of the ytterbium band 2F7/2→2F5/2 at approximately 980 nm in the solid state at ambient temperature. The upconversion process is insensitive to atmospheric oxygen and can be observed in the presence of water molecules in the crystal lattice.
An inorganic–organic hybrid material based on a Keggin‐type polyoxometalate@Dysprosium as an effective and green catalyst in the synthesis of 2‐amino‐4H‐chromenes via multicomponent reactions
Authors: Hosseinzadeh‐Baghan Sara , Mirzaei Masoud , Eshtiagh‐Hosseini Hossein , Zadsirjan Vahideh , Heravi Majid M. , Mague Joel T.
Published: June 2020

A novel inorganic–organic hybrid, [Dy4(PDA)4(H2O)11(SiMo12O40)]·7H2O denoted as (POM@Dy‐PDA), based on a lanthanide cluster, a Keggin‐type polyoxomolybdate, and PDA (1,10‐phenanthroline‐2,9‐dicarboxylic acid) was prepared and fully characterized by elemental analysis, Fourier‐transform infrared and UV–Vis spectroscopies, thermogravimetric analysis, powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The structural analysis study showed that the [SiMo12O40]4− ions reside in the interspace between two cationic layers as discrete counterions and are not coordinated to the rare‐earth ions. Significantly, this hybrid catalyst is a rare case of an inorganic–organic hybrid polyoxometalate (POM) with a PDA ligand based on CSD search (CSD version 5.40/November2018). The hybrid catalyst was further characterized via powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern at room temperature which indicated the good phase purity of the catalyst. BET and Langmuir surface area analysis indicate surface area of POM@Dy‐PDA 6.6 and 51.3 m2g‐1, respectively. The catalytic activity of the hybrid catalyst was successfully examined in the synthesis of 2‐amino‐4H‐chromene derivatives through a multicomponent reaction. A three‐component, one‐pot reaction involving differently substituted benzaldehydes, resorcinol/α‐naphthol/β‐naphthol/4‐hydroxycoumarin/3‐methyl‐4H‐pyrazole‐5(4H)‐one, and malononitrile or ethyl cyanoacetate in the presence of a catalytic quantity of the aforementioned hybrid catalyst in EtOH/H2O under reflux condition gave the corresponding highly functionalized 2‐amino‐4H‐chromenes in satisfactory yields. The catalyst can be reused several times without appreciable loss in its catalytic activity.
Electrospinning superhydrophobic–superoleophilic PVDF‐SiO2 nanofibers membrane for oil–water separation
Authors: Jiang Shan , Meng Xiangfei , Chen Binling , Wang Nannan , Chen Guangkai
Published: June 2020

Oil–water separation has attracted research interest due to the damages of oily wastewater caused to the environment and human beings. Electrospun fiber membrane has high oil–water separation performance. A nanofibers membrane with multi‐stage roughness was prepared by electrospinning using poly(vinylidene fluoride)(PVDF)‐silica blend solution as raw material. The result shows that the water contact angle (WCA) of the nanofibers membrane was promoted from 138.5 ± 1° to 150.0 ± 1.5° when the SiO2 content was increased from 0 to 3 wt%. The nanofibers membranes exhibited excellent separation efficiency (99 ± 0.1%) under gravity drive, with high separation flux of 1857 ± 101 L·m−2·h−1. More importantly, the obtained PVDF‐SiO2 nanofibers membranes showed excellent multi‐cycle performance and stable chemical resistance, which would make them great advantages for the practical application of oil–water separation.
Persistent Bacteriuria and Antibodies Recognizing Curli/eDNA Complexes From Escherichia coli Are Linked to Flares in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Pachucki Ryan J. , Corradetti Chelsea , Kohler Lynne , Ghadiali Jay , Gallo Paul M. , Nicastro Lauren , Tursi Sarah A. , Gallucci Stefania , Tükel Çagla , Caricchio Roberto
Published: June 2020

Objective

Infections contribute to morbidity and mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are known to trigger urinary tract infections (UTIs) and form biofilms, which are multicellular communities of bacteria that are strengthened by amyloids such as curli. We previously reported that curli naturally form complexes with bacterial extracellular DNA (eDNA), and these curli/eDNA complexes induce hallmark features of lupus in mouse models. The present study was undertaken to investigate whether anti–curli/eDNA complex antibodies play a role in the pathogenesis of SLE or development of flares in SLE.

Methods

In total, 96 SLE patients who met at least 4 Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics disease criteria were investigated. Anti–curli/eDNA complex antibodies in the plasma were tested for both IgG and IgA subclasses. Results were compared to that in 54 age‐, sex‐, and race/ethnicity‐matched healthy controls. Correlations of the levels of anti‐curli/eDNA antibodies with clinical parameters, lupus disease status, and frequency of bacteriuria were assessed.

Results

Anti‐curli/eDNA antibodies were detected in the plasma of SLE patients and healthy controls, and their levels correlated with the presence of asymptomatic persistent bacteriuria and occurrence of disease flares in lupus patients. Persistent bacteriuria contained curli‐producing UPEC, and this was associated with an inflammatory phenotype. Finally, curli/eDNA complexes cross‐reacted with lupus autoantigens, such as double‐stranded DNA, in binding autoantibodies.

Conclusion

These results suggest that UTIs and persistent bacteriuria are environmental triggers of lupus and its flares. Antibodies against curli/eDNA could serve as a sign of systemic exposure to bacterial products in SLE.
Clickable artificial heme‐peroxidases for the development of functional nanomaterials
Authors: Zambrano Gerardo , Chino Marco , Renzi Emilia , Di Girolamo Rocco , Maglio Ornella , Pavone Vincenzo , Lombardi Angela , Nastri Flavia
Published: June 2020

Artificial metalloenzymes as catalysts are promising candidates for their use in different technologies, such as bioremediation, biomass transformation, or biosensing. Despite this, their practical exploitation is still at an early stage. Immobilized natural enzymes have been proposed to enhance their applicability. Immobilization may offer several advantages: (i) catalyst reuse; (ii) easy separation of the enzyme from the reaction medium; (iii) better tolerance to harsh temperature and pH conditions. Here, we report an easy immobilization procedure of an artificial peroxidase on different surfaces, by means of click chemistry. FeMC6*a, a recently developed peroxidase mimic, has been functionalized with a pegylated aza‐dibenzocyclooctyne to afford a “clickable” biocatalyst, namely FeMC6*a‐PEG4@DBCO, which easily reacts with azide‐functionalized molecules and/or nanomaterials to afford functional bioconjugates. The clicked biocatalyst retains its structural and, to some extent, its functional behaviors, thus housing high potential for biotechnological applications.
Promoting P450 BM3 heme domain dimerization with a tris(5‐iodoacetamido‐1,10‐phenanthroline)Ru(II) complex
Authors: Kato Mallory , Foley Bridget , Vu Julia , Huynh Michael , Lucero Kathreena , Harmon Caroline , Cheruzel Lionel
Published: June 2020

Protein dimerization often occurs in many biological systems as to provide structural and functional advantages. A tris(5‐iodoacetamido‐1,10‐phenanthroline)Ruthenium(II) complex was shown to promote the covalent dimerization of a P450 BM3 heme domain mutant containing a surface‐exposed nonnative single cysteine residue. The formation of homodimeric species was confirmed by protein gel electrophoresis, mass spectrometry and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The dimeric species could be separated from the monomer and aggregates by size‐exclusion chromatography. Docking simulation reveals a plausible structure with two proteins covalently conjugated to the inorganic compound.
Altered white matter integrity in patients with monocular blindness: A diffusion tensor imaging and tract‐based spatial statistics study
Authors: Liu Yu‐Xin , Li Biao , Wu Kang‐Rui , Tang Li‐Ying , Lin Qi , Li Qing‐Hai , Yuan Qing , Shi Wen‐Qing , Liang Rong‐Bin , Ge Qian‐Min , Shao Yi
Published: June 2020

Background

Visual deprivation can lead to abnormal and plastic changes in the brain's visual system and other systems. Although the secondary changes of gray matter in patients have been well studied, the study of white matter is rare. In fact, subtle changes in white matter may be revealed by diffusion tensor imaging, and tract‐based spatial statistics can be used to analyze DTI image data.

Purpose

In the present study, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS) were used to investigate abnormal structural changes in the white matter (WM) of patients with monocular blindness (MB).

Methods

We recruited 16 healthy controls (HC) (fourteen males and two females) and 16 patients (fifteen males and one female) with right‐eye blindness (without differences in left‐eye vision). All patients were of similar age. Data acquisition was performed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and DTI. Voxel‐based whole brain comparisons of fractional anisotropy (FA) and radial diffusivity (RD) of WM fibers in patients and HC were performed using the TBSS method. The mean FA and RD values for altered brain regions in MB patients were analyzed via the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationships between the average FA (RD) value of the whole brain and anxiety score, depression score, and visual function questionnaire score in MB patients.

Results

In MB patients, the mean FA of the whole brain was decreased versus HC. Moreover, the FA values of the corpus callosum, the corona radiata, the posterior thalamic radiation, and the right retrolenticular part of internal capsule were significantly decreased. In addition, the average RD value of the whole brain in MB patients was higher than that observed in HC. The mean FA and RD values of brain regions were analyzed using the ROC curve, and the results showed that the area under the ROC curve was more accurate. Furthermore, the average FA and RD values of the whole brain were significantly correlated with anxiety score, depression score, and visual function‐related quality of life score.

Conclusion

DTI and TBSS may be useful in examining abnormal spontaneous alterations in the WM of MB patients. The observed changes in FA and RD values may imply the larvaceous neurological mechanism involved in MB.
Total Tocopherols, Carotenoids, and Fatty Acids Content Variation of Pistacia atlantica from Different Organs’ Crude Oils and Their Antioxidant Activity during Development Stages
Authors: Chelghoum Manel , Guenane Hamid , Harrat Mohamed , Yousfi Mohamed
Published: June 2020

The current study investigated the effect of developmental stages on the chemical composition and the antioxidant activity of fifteen crude oil samples obtained from Pistacia atlantica Desf. leaves, galls, and fruits. Twelve fatty acids were detected by GC/FID, linolenic acid (C18 : 3) was the major fatty acid detected in leaves crude oils that registered [41.73 % (P<0.05)] on the last stage. The best content of tocopherols and carotenoids was recorded at the last stage for leaves and galls oils, respectively, with values of [1.530±0.01, 0.52±0.01 (P<0.05) mg α‐tocopherol equivalent/g DW] and [86.60±0.95, 69.15±0.13 (P<0.05) μg β‐carotene equivalent/g DW]. For fruits oils, the content varied depending on the levels of fruits maturation. The results from DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays revealed that the antioxidant activity increased with the increasing content of tocopherols and carotenoids in leaves and galls oils during development stages, and varied for fruits oils depending on the ripening stages. Moreover, according to PCA analysis, the best phytoconstituent content and antioxidant activity were attributed to P. atlantica Desf. fruit's crude oils. Also, a strong relationship was found between the antioxidant activity and bioactive phytochemical components, such as tocopherols, carotenoids, and omega‐three fatty acid, which confirmed that P. atlantica Desf. crude oils present a valuable source of natural antioxidant that could be used for pharmaceutical and food industries purposes.
Predictors of patent and occlusive hemostasis after transradial coronary procedures
Authors: Pacchioni Andrea , Bellamoli Michele , Mugnolo Antonio , Ferro Jayme , Pesarini Gabriele , Turri Riccardo , Ribichini Flavio , Saccà Salvatore , Versaci Francesco , Reimers Bernhard
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To assess the independent predictors of patent and occlusive hemostasis (PH and OH, respectively) during radial hemostasis after coronary procedures.

Background

Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is a thrombotic complication of transradial catheterization that can lead to permanent occlusion of the radial artery. Sheath‐vessel diameter ratio, postprocedure compression time, occlusive hemostasis, inadequate, and excessive anticoagulation are all predictors of RAO.

Methods

As a part of a previously published study investigating the relationship between residual anticoagulation and risk of RAO, 837 patients undergoing transradial diagnostic coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary interventions were enrolled. Cumulative heparin dose used during the procedure and ACT measured before sheath removal were recorded. PH with reverse Barbeau test was attempted in all patients (NCT02762344).

Results

PH was less frequently obtained for increasing cumulative heparin dose and ACT values (p < .0001 and p = .0034, respectively). At logistic regression analysis both cumulative heparin dose and ACT values were independent predictors of OH (OR 1.017, 95% IC 1.011–1.023 p < .0001 and OR 1.004, 95% IC 1.001–1.006, p = .0004) while adjusted probability for RAO showed exponential relationship with both parameters.

Conclusions

The level of anticoagulation is strongly related to the incidence of RAO, and should be taken into account when choosing hemostasis protocol.
Functional Micro/Nanoreactors for Nanospace‐Confined Migrations and Diffusions
Authors: Wang Xinyao , Liu Jian
Published: June 2020

Diffusion is a natural phenomenon and essential in many fields. Conceptually, diffusion in solid materials, especially in the confined micro/nano‐spaces, can boost the development of new functional nanomaterials for applications across a range of areas. In this Minireview, we categorize the diffusion behavior at the nanoscale including atom/ion diffusion and direct migration of nanoparticles, and discuss how these two strategies can be applied for the construction of nanoreactors with unique structures and components. The understanding of diffusion principles in a confined system is summarized in detail. Moreover, the development opportunities of diffusion process in future research are outlined.
Following the Ground States of Full‐RSB Spherical Spin Glasses
Authors: Subag Eliran
Published: June 2020

We focus on spherical spin glasses whose Parisi distribution has support of the form [0, q]. For such models we construct paths from the origin to the sphere that consistently remain close to the ground‐state energy on the sphere of corresponding radius. The construction uses a greedy strategy, which always follows a direction corresponding to the most negative eigenvalues of the Hessian of the Hamiltonian. For finite mixtures ξ(x) it provides an algorithm of time complexity O(Ndeg(ξ)) to find w.h.p. points with the ground‐state energy, up to a small error.

For the pure spherical models, the same algorithm reaches the energy −E∞, the conjectural terminal energy for gradient descent. Using the TAP formula for the free energy, for full‐RSB models with support [0, q], we are able to prove the correct lower bound on the free energy (namely, prove the lower bound from Parisi's formula), assuming the correctness of the Parisi formula only in the replica symmetric case. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Lumped Parameter Model for Silicon Crystal Growth from Granulate Crucible
Authors: Lorenz‐Meyer M. Nicolai L. , Menzel Robert , Dadzis Kaspars , Nikiforova Angelina , Riemann Helge
Published: June 2020

In the present paper, a lumped parameter model for the novel Silicon Granulate Crucible (SiGC) method is proposed, which is the basis for a future model‐based control system for the process. The model is analytically deduced based on the hydromechanical, geometrical, and thermal conditions of the process. Experiments are conducted to identify unknown model parameters and to validate the model. The physical consistency of the model is verified using simulation studies and a prediction error of below 2% is reached.