bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A bZIP transcription factor, PqbZIP1, is involved in the plant defense response of American ginseng
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Zhang Ximei , Bi Yanmeng , Gao Weiwei
Published: March 2022

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) is a perennial medicinal plant that has a long usage history in China. However, root rot, which is mainly caused by Fusarium solani can severely reduce the yield and quality of American ginseng, but no disease-resistant variety of American ginseng exists, and the resistance against this disease is not yet well understood. Thus, it is very urgent to analyze the interaction mechanism regulating the interactions between American ginseng and F. solani to mine disease resistance genes. Using transcriptome data and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), we screened the transcription factor PqbZIP1 in response to induction by chitin. Yeast self-activation and subcellular localization experiments proved that PqbZIP1 showed transcriptional activity and was localized in the plant nucleus. In addition, qPCR showed that the highest relative expression level was in the roots, wherein chitin and F. solani inhibited and activated the expression of PqbZIP1, respectively, in American ginseng. Additionally, PqbZIP1 significantly inhibited the growth of the Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato D36E strain in Nicotiana benthamiana, where expressing PqbZIP1 in N. benthamiana increased the jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, and abscisic acid content. Furthermore, PqbZIP1 expression was continually increased upon inoculation with F. solani. Hence, this study revealed that the PqbZIP1 transcription factor might mediate multiple hormonal signaling pathway to modulate root rot disease resistance in American ginseng, and provided important information to breed disease-resistant American ginseng.
Four new species of Ctenodrilus, Raphidrilus, and Raricirrus (Cirratuliformia, Annelida) in Japanese waters, with notes on their phylogenetic position
Authors: Jimi Naoto , Fujimoto Shinta , Fujiwara Yoshihiro , Oguchi Kohei , Miura Toru
Published: March 2022

Four new species of annelids, Ctenodrilus japonicus sp. nov., Raphidrilus misakiensis sp. nov., Raphidrilus okinawaensis sp. nov., and Raricirrus anubis sp. nov., are described based on specimens collected from Japanese waters. Ctenodrilus japonicus sp. nov. inhabits the interstitial environment and can be distinguished from the other congeners by the following features: (i) total of 16 chaetigers, (ii) chaetigers 1–3 with stout hooks, (iii) minute body (approximately 1 mm in length), (iv) all parapodia with the same number of chaetae (two notochaetae; two neurochaetae), and (v) presence of dorsal and ventral papillae. Raphidrilus misakiensis sp. nov. lives under intertidal stones and can be distinguished from other congeners by having pectinate neurochaetae. Raphidrilus okinawaensis sp. nov. inhabits the interstitial environment and can be distinguished from other congeners by: (i) absence of annulation on the peristomium and achaetous segment and (ii) presence of a heart body in chaetigers 4–5. Raricirrus anubis sp. nov. inhabits whale bones and can be distinguished from other congeners by the following features: (i) presence of a heart body in chaetigers 9–14, (ii) presence of capillary neurochaetae on chaetiger 1, and (iii) presence of simple curved spines. A phylogenetic tree based on partial sequences of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and 16S rRNA from the new species and other cirratulid worms showed that Raphidrilus is included in Cirratuliformia. This is the first record of Raphidrilus and Raricirrus from Japanese waters.
Efficacy of Ultrasound as a Diagnostic Tool in Acute Abdominal Conditions: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Agrawal Puneet , Yadav Abhishek
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Acute abdomen is a very common complaint for which a patient presents to the emergency department. It often requires immediate diagnosis and urgent surgical intervention. Since, many serious and benign intra-abdominal conditions share common symptoms, it is often difficult to identify life threatening conditions early in its course. Aim: To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of ultrasound abdomen in common conditions presenting as acute abdomen. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study, which included the patients presented with acute abdomen to the Emergency Department of FH Medical College and Hospital from March 2017 to March 2020. Clinical diagnosis was made and ultrasound abdomen was done. Ultrasound diagnosis was compared with peroperative findings and histopathology or by CT scan, if patient was not operated. Diagnostic performance markers such as sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV), Negative Predictive Value (NPV) and accuracy were used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 726 patients were studied which included clinically diagnosed cases of acute appendicitis (189), gastrointestinal perforation (87), acute intestinal obstruction (65), acute cholecystitis (202) and acute pancreatitis (183). In cases of acute appendicitis, ultrasound made correct diagnosis in 148 patients, with sensitivity of 97.36%, specificity of 40.54%, PPV of 87.05%, NPV of 78.94%. For enteric perforation, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV was 89.04%, 35.71%, 87.83%, and 38.46% respectively. Conclusion: This study reflects that ultrasound scan has a high sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy for common acute abdominal conditions when executed by skilled hands.
Contact Point Headache- Evaluation and Surgical Treatment
Authors: Lalhmingmawii . , Lalthasangi . , Chaudhary Neena , Naveen P
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Contact point headache must be considered in patients who have no other identifiable cause of their headache. Otorhinolaryngologist should carefully evaluate the patients with headache for any possible contact points within the nasal cavity. Aim: To identify the incidence of contact point headache and evaluate the results of surgery in patients suffering from contact point headache. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal study was carried out from October 2005 to March 2006 in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India. In this study 20 patients, presented to Ear, Nose and Throat Outpatient Department (ENT OPD) with complaints of headache, were screened for contact point headache. Detailed history were taken, diagnostic nasal endoscopy and computed tomography scan of nose and paranasal sinuses was done to demonstrate a contact point. A 4% xylocaine with adrenaline (1:100000 conc.) cotton swab pack was placed between the intranasal contact point for five minutes and relief of headache was noted, if any. A total of 18 septoplasties and two Middle Turbinate (MT) lateralisations were performed. Patients were followed-up for a period of four months postoperatively. Results: In the study, incidence of contact point headache was 13%. The headache duration ranged from 18-180 months, average duration being about 45.8 months. Postoperatively, 15 (75%) had total relief of their headache in terms of frequency, intensity and duration, 3 (15%) patients had significant relief and 2 (10%) had no relief of headache. Conclusion: The results for surgical treatment of contact point headache in the study have been rewarding, therefore surgery should be considered in patients whose headache are refractory to all forms of medication, with intranasal contact point, as an intranasal contact point may be the trigger factor for headache.
Prolactinoma and Pregnancy: A Study Protocol
Authors: Bandeira Diego Barata , Santana Alves Letícia , Glezer Andrea , Boguszewski Cesar Luiz , Nunes-Nogueira Vania dos Santos
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Prolactinomas are the most common pituitary tumors, especially affecting women in their 3rd and 4th decades, being an important cause of irregular menses and infertility. Fertility can be restored, making pregnancy possible, in most of the cases, mainly microprolactinomas, with clinical treatment (dopamine agonist (DA)) and eventually neurosurgery. Although literature data point to safety in maternal and fetal outcomes, especially regarding symptomatic tumor growth and DA fetal exposure, there is no meta-analysis. Ideal length of DA treatment in macroprolactinomas, abortion rate and neuropsychological development are important gaps in the management of DA- induced pregnancies.

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the association between pregnancy and prolactinoma with respect to the control of prolactinoma and fetal/maternal outcomes.

Methods: This review will be conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for systematic reviews of etiology and risk. We will focus on observational studies that included pregnant women with prolactinoma. The outcomes will be prolactinoma control, preterm birth, maternal adverse events related to the use of DA, worsening of preexisting diabetes or the development of gestational diabetes, spontaneous miscarriage, frequency of breastfeeding, perinatal mortality, low birth weight, small for gestational age, congenital malformations, tumor size, headache, visual impairment, apoplexy, neurosurgery, clinical/biochemical recurrence of prolactinomas/hyperprolactinemia after pregnancy. Embase, Medline, LILACS, and CENTRAL will be our source databases. Two reviewers independently will select the studies, extract data and critically appraise the eligible studies. We will use Stata Statistical Software 17 to plot similar outcomes in at least two studies in meta-analyses. For controlled studies, relative risks will be calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as an estimate of the exposure effect, and for continuous data we will calculate means and standard deviations, and the mean differences will be calculated with respective 95% CIs. For uncontrolled studies we will perform proportional meta-analyses.  The protocol of this review was registered in the PROSPERO database (registration number: CRD42021283757).

Conclusions: The results of this review can help in the management of prolactinoma in women before, during and after pregnancy.
The Roles of Counselling Education in the Rehabilitation of Teachers with Psychopathic Issues in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Eberechukwu Francisca Chigbu , Blessing Obianuju Mokwelu , Augustine Nwosu Ikechukwu , Patience Nwobodo
Published: March 2022

The study investigated the roles of counselling education in the rehabilitation of teachers with psychopathic issues in Enugu State, Nigeria. One research question and one null hypothesis formulated to guide the study was tested at .05 level of significance. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The population for the study consisted of 51 school counsellors in the 279 public secondary schools in the area. The number is small and manageable; so no sampling was done. The instrument used for data collection was a 6-item questionnaire. The instrument was validated by three experts from Faculty of Education, one from Measurement and Evaluation and two from Guidance and Counselling, all from the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Mean, with standard deviation and t-test statistics were used for data analysis. The study revealed, among others that counsellors ought to assist in providing a special psychological care to those vulnerable teachers and to identify the coping strategies they can use to adjust the changes that occur in their lives. Secondly, it was also found that there is no significant relationship between the mean ratings of male counsellors and female school counsellors in the role of counselling education in the rehabilitation of teachers with psychopathic issues in Enugu State, Nigeria. The study recommended, among others, that there should be sectional seminars, workshops, symposia on the mental health life adjustment of teachers as regards their psychopathic and psychological problems.
Clinical Profile of COVID-19 Infection and SARS-Cov-2 IgG Antibody Response in Children under 18 Years of Age in a Tertiary Care Centre in North Kerala
Authors: Anjali T. R. , Ashok Vidhu , Gopalan A. V. , Sasidharan K.
Published: March 2022

Background: The Global Pandemic Coronavirus disease, was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan and in March 11, 2020, got declared as global pandemic by  World Health Organisation (WHO) . The morbidity and mortality of the disease have been rising with second wave of pandemic hitting worldwide.

Objectives: To study the clinical profile of children under 18 years of age with COVID-19 infection and to study the IgG antibody response in covid infected children.

Materials and Methods: Children under 18 years of age except neonates who had COVID-19 infection and recovered from MMC Covid hospital were included for the study. After discharge blood samples were tested for COVID-19 IgG Antibody using SARS-CoV-2 IgG Reagent Kit 6R86 by Abbott Ireland diagnostics division. Data was entered into Microsoft excel   sheet and statistical analysis done with SPSS VERSION 21.

Results: Children who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were taken up for the study. Median age in this study was 10 years. All affected   children got infection from their family members. Fever as the presenting symptom were found in 62% children. Ninteen children showed positive IgG antibody  and 2 out of 21 children showed negative IgG antibody level . There is significant association between IgG titre and timing of  antibody testing after infection by the SARS-CoV-2 virus

Conclusion: Clinical profile and spectrum of COVID-19 infection were similar in all family members. Measures to prevent transmission of infection from family members to children will decrease infection by the SARS-CoV-2 virus in children. Antibody following infection by the SARS-CoV-2 virus will last only for few months, making children susceptible to covid infection again. Vaccination among children is necessary to prevent rapid spread of covid   infection.
Hepato-protective Effect and Lipid Profile of Honey on Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Alaebo Prince O. , Onyeabo Chimaraoke , Oriaku Chinwe E. , Njoku George C. , Iloanusi David U. , Ekwunoh Peter O.
Published: March 2022

Purpose: The study investigated honey's hepatoprotective effect and lipid profile on alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Methods: Thirty-six (36) male Wistar rats were assigned into six (6) groups with six (6) animals each, group 1 (Normal control), group 2 (Negative control), group 3 (Glibenclamide), group 4 (treated with 0.2mls of honey) group 5, (treated with 0.5mls of honey and group 6 (treated with 0.8mls of honey). The rats were fed with standard feed and drinking water ad libitum. The diabetic control, diabetic glibenclamide and the treated groups (0.2 mL/kg, 0.5 mL/kg and 0.8 mL/kg) were induced with diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kg bodyweight alloxan monohydrate, and confirmation was done using a glucometer. Treatment lasted for three weeks (21 days), after which rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation under light ether anaesthesia. Blood was collected for biochemical evaluation using standard techniques (Randox kits). Blood glucose levels were monitored on days 0, 7, 14, and 21.

Results: Administration of honey to the diabetic rats significantly reduced (p < 0.05) glucose level (119.50 mg/dl), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (49.5 mg/dl) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), while significantly increasing (p < 0.05) high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) when compared to the diabetic untreated rats. Liver enzyme parameters: alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin (T.Bil.) were found to be within the normal range.

Conclusions: Overall, the findings suggest that honey could ameliorate metabolic disorders caused by diabetes.
Effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Botanicals against Tikka Leaf Spot Disease (Cercospora arachidicola, Cercospora personatum) of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Tulasi Prasanna Sankaran , Simon Sobita , A. Lal Abhilasha
Published: March 2022

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oilseed crop in India. It is susceptible from many diseases, tikka disease is one of them. Tikka disease is due to Cercospora arachidicola, Cercospora personatum causes much damage to production and pod quality. A survey was conducted during Rabi 2020-21 to know the incidence of Tikka disease of groundnut in farmer’s fields in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. Five villages were selected in the district and in each village two fields were surveyed. The disease incidence ranged from 29 to 50 per cent irrespective of location surveyed. The disease incidence was least in Taruva village (29%) and highest in Alamanda village (50%) during the month of January to March 2021. To manage the disease an investigation was carried out in farmer’s field during Rabi 2020-21 in Taruva village, Devarapalle mandal, Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh to evaluate the efficacy of Bio-agent viz.., Pseudomonas fluorescens (S.T), Botanicals viz.., Extract and oil sprays of Neem, Eucalyptus, Clove. Among the treatments the plant height (cm), No. of branches, Root length and Pods per plant at 90 DAS was significantly increased in T3 – S.T with Pseudomonas fluorescens + neem oil (F.S) (42.8 cm), (6.2), (9.72), (28.51) respectively. The Disease incidence (%) at 90 DAS was significantly decreased in treatment T3 - S.T with Pseudomonas fluorescens + neem oil (F.S) (15.5%). The Post parameters i.e., shoot length, Root length, Fresh weight and Dry weight at 90 DAS was significantly increased in T3 – S.T with Pseudomonas fluorescens + neem oil (F.S) (42.76 cm), (13.06 cm), (172 gms), (37.96 gms) respectively as compared to control T0.
Assessment of Nutritive and Anti–Nutritive Values and Mineral Content of Vigna subterranean L Thouars (Bambara Nut) Seeds
Authors: Alinnor I. J. , Chijioke-Okere M. , Nwagbo N. C.
Published: March 2022

Vigna subterranean L.  thouars (Bambara nut) seeds were analyzed for their nutritive and anti – nutritive values. The result showed that Vigna subterranean L. thouars seeds have moisture content 7.54%, ash content 3.46%, crude fat content 4.79%, crude protein content 22.40%, crude fibre content 1.65%, carbohydrate content 60.16% and available energy 1580.75 KJ. The mineral content of analyzed samples showed that Vigna subterranean L. thouars seeds have 57.39% and 55.67% of potassium and calcium, respectively. The high Ca/P ratio indicates that Vigna subterranean L. thouars is a very good food source.  This study showed that oxalate, nitrate and cyanide values were below WHO standard. The low content of anti –nutrients of Vigna subterranean L. thouars showed that Bambara nut will not constitute health hazard when taken as food.
Screening Asclepias syriaca for Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Abioye J. O. K. , Manaja E. , Olokun A. L.
Published: March 2022

Antibiotic resistance, as well as the evolution and spread of new strains of disease causing agents are of great concern to the global health community. The high cost of antibiotics has made it inevitable to search for cheaper sources of antimicrobials. There has been considerable interest in the use of plant materials as an alternative method of controlling pathogenic microorganisms.

Asclepias syriaca is one of such plants that need to be investigated in view of its acclaimed medicinal uses. It has been reported to contain certain bioactive chemicals which could be antimicrobial in action. This work investigated Asclepias syriaca stem for antimicrobial activity. Cold water, Hot water and Methanolic extracts of Asclepias stem were prepared using standard methods. The extracts were used to carry out susceptibility test, determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the stem extract on Salmonella typhi, Salmonella typhimurium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The extracts were found to be effective on the three test organisms, with the methanolic extract being most active, followed by hot water extract, then cold water extract. Inhibitory zone diameter ranged between15 to 26mm for Methanolic extract, 14 to 23mm for Hot water extract, and 12 to 20mm for Cold water extract. The extracts were most active on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, then Salmonella typhi, and lastly Salmonella typhimurium. The MIC of the extract on Salmonella typhimirium was 200mg/mL for both the Cold and Hot water extracts, but 100 mg/mL for methanolic extract. The MIC of the extract on Salmonella typhi was 12.50mg/mL for Methalonic extract and for both Cold and Hot water extracts. For Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the MIC was 3.125mg/mL for all the extracts, i.e Cold and Hot water extracts, as well as Methanolic extract. MIC of the standard antibiotic was 3.125mg/mL.

The MBC result showed no inhibition by all the extracts on Salmonella typhimurium, even at 400 mg/mL. All the extracts had MBC at 400 mg/mL for Salmonella typhi. All the extracts had MBC at 200 mg/mL on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while MBC of the standard control on all test bacteria was 6.25 mg/mL. From our results, it is evident that Asclepias syriaca stem extracts possesses antimicrobial property which can be exploited to treat Salmonella typhi infection as used traditionally, as well as infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Extraction, Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Drypetes roxburghii
Authors: Arvind Jowar , Amit Jain Kumar , Sarang Jain Kumar
Published: March 2022

Humans are affected by free radicals in over a hundred different ways. Synthetic antioxidants have been linked to harmful health consequences, prompting substantial investigation into naturally occurring antioxidants, particularly those found in plants. The goal of this study was to determine the phytochemical components and in vitro antioxidant activity of Drypetes roxburghii (D. roxburghii, Euphorbiaceae) leaves collected in the Bhopal district of Madhya Pradesh. The 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) test was used to measure antioxidant activity. The presence of cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenol, proteins, carbohydrate, and saponins in the ethanolic extracts of D. roxburghii leaves was discovered using phytochemical screening. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts of D. roxburghii leaves yielded 1.9 and 2.6 percent w/w, respectively. The ethanolic extract of D. roxburghii leaves contained 1.48 and 0.70 mg/100 mg of total phenolic and flavonoids, respectively. When comparing the DPPH scavenging activity of leaf ethanolic extract to Ascorbic acid (standard), the IC50 value was 87.80. It suggests that the plant has the ability to scavenge free radicals, and it might lead to new discoveries in the continuing hunt for natural antioxidants in medicinal plants that can be utilised to treat illnesses caused by free radical reactions.
Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Effects of Herbal Extracts Incorporated in Dentifrices among Adults: An In-vitro Study and a Double Blinded Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Kalra Dheeraj D. , Anjum Varisha , Alam Tausif , Islam Mojahid Ul , Ankat Saundarya , Malhotra Kusha
Published: March 2022

Introduction: A positive correlation has been observed between Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans and periodontal diseases. Several substances including synthetic chemicals and natural agents have shown promising antimicrobial activity against the S. mutans- C. albicans complex. Extracts of Aloe Vera, Triphala, Tulsi, Pomegranate, and Acacia catechu have established therapeutic effects in medicine. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of five herbal extracts in-vitro and to compare the antibacterial effects of 5 dentifrices containing the herbal extracts and a commercially available dentifrice on the plaque sample counts of S. mutans and C. albicans in-vivo

Methodology: Extracts were obtained using a standardized method. Minimum inhibitory concentration was calculated for the test microorganisms using modified agar-well diffusion and macro broth dilution technique and the inhibition zone diameters were calculated. Dentifrices containing the extracts were formulated and the in vivo antimicrobial activity was evaluated by studying the CFU count from plaque samples of 420 participants. 

Results: Highest antimicrobial activity against S Mutans and C albicans was shown by Acacia catechu and Tulsi respectively and least was by pomegranate. Mean reduction in microbial counts (CFU/ml) by inoculating nutrient broth from baseline to 60 days was highest in Acacia catechu and Triphala for S Mutans and C albicans respectively. All herbal extracts performed better than the commercially available toothpaste.

Conclusion: Dentifrices with herbal extracts of Aloe Vera, Triphala, Tulsi, Pomegranate, and Acacia catechu could serve as an alternative to commercially available dentifrices for treating oral diseases whose causative organisms are S. mutans and C. albicans.
Ready-made Garments, FDI and Total Exports of Bangladesh: A Time Series Analysis
Authors: Shourave Md Showgat Jahan
Published: March 2022

This study examines the long-run and short-run causal relationships among readymade garments export, total export earnings, and net foreign direct investment inflows utilizing data from the financial year 1996-97 to 2019-20. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds test discloses the existence of a long-run relationship among the variables. This study also employed the Johansen cointegration test to supplement the results of the ARDL approach. This cointegration test confirms the presence of two cointegration equations. In addition, the Toda-Yamamoto test is performed to demonstrate the existence of short-run and long-run relationships among the variables. The results indicate that there is bidirectional causality between RMG exports and total exports in the short run as well as in the long run. Another important aspect of this study is that there is bidirectional causality between FDI and total export earnings in the short run but there is a unidirectional causality in the long run. The analysis also gives insights like single sector dominance, problems that existed in the RMG sector, and problems and prospects of FDI inflow. Further, keeping in view with these problems, the study urges pragmatic feasible measures for sustainable export growth.
Antibacterial Activity and Mechanism of the Gallnut Water Extract against Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Yuan Chunying , Zhan Wenhao , Cui Qingman
Published: March 2022

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is an important pathogen causing pandemic diseases in marine animals and brings about severe economic losses in aquaculture worldwide. The emergence of multi-drug-resistant V. parahaemolyticus and the prohibition of antibiotics both require the development of new therapeutic agents with alternative action. In this study, the effect of gallnut Galla chinensis water extract (GWE) on V. parahaemolyticus growth and virulence was investigated to determine the potential for its use in disease prevention and treatment in aquaculture. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of GWE against V. parahaemolyticus were identified as 0.49 and 0.98 mg/mL, respectively. Membrane damage in V. parahaemolyticus was further verified through the increase of conductivity and leakage of nucleic acids and proteins. Moreover, GWE caused membrane invaginations and damage in V. parahaemolyticus as observed via scanning electron microscopy. After treatment with GWE, the biofilm formation and the activities of respiratory chain dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, and succinate dehydrogenase of V. parahaemolyticus were all significantly inhibited. These findings suggest that GWE has the potential to be developed as a supplemental agent to mitigate the infections caused by V. parahaemolyticus in aquaculture.
Facial width‐to‐height ratio predicts fighting success: A direct replication and extension of Zilioli et al. (2014)
Authors: Caton Neil R. , Hannan John , Dixson Barnaby J. W.
Published: March 2022

Zilioli et al. (2014) were the first to show an association between male facial width‐to‐height ratio (fWHR) and physical aggression and fighting ability in professional mixed‐martial‐arts fighters. Here, we re‐examined this relationship by replicating (using all original measures) and extending (using 23 new variables related to fighting performance) Zilioli et al. (2014) in a statistically well‐powered sample of 520 fighters using automatic and manual measures of the fWHR involving both eyelid and eyebrow landmarks, used interchangeably in previous reports (Studies 1–2). Most importantly, we successfully replicated Zilioli et al.'s (2014) central finding that fighters' fWHR, when manually calculated using the eyebrow landmark, predicted their fighting success (p = .004, controlling for body mass index and total fights). Consistent with past criticisms of using fight rather than fighter data to examine fighting success, which have argued that individual fights can be suddenly and unexpectedly determined and do not capture an individual's overall ability to succeed, Study 3 (N = 1367 fights) found no association between fWHR and singular victories. Studies 1–3 showed continual evidence that larger fWHRs were associated with grappling abilities, even after controlling for demographic and allometric factors. Strikingly, Study 3 discovered associations between all fWHR measures and grappling skill that remained robust before and after controlling for 17 different control variables. We discuss that grappling, or the act of taking down an opponent, involves a more aggressive, close‐combat approach than does striking. Combined, these results offer additional support for the argument that fWHR may have been shaped by sexual selection.
Carbon Nanotube/Polymer Coaxial Cables with Strong Interface for Damping Composites and Stretchable Conductors
Authors: Chang Shulong , Lou Huiqing , Meng Weixue , Li Meng , Guo Fengmei , Pang Rui , Xu Jie , Zhang Yingjiu , Shang Yuanyuan , Cao Anyuan
Published: March 2022

Carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers have the potential to serve as continuous nano‐fillers for structural and functional composite materials, yet there exists the interfacial problem that has hindered the development of continuous fiber reinforced composites for a long time. Here, a method to overcome this challenge by coating a thick CNT sponge around a single‐walled nanotube (SWNT) fiber is presented, and then infiltrating polymers into the sponge to construct a SWNT@polymer coaxial cable. It has been found that the residual stress‐induced deposition of amorphous carbon as an intermediate layer between the underlying SWNT fiber and the subsequently coated multi‐walled nanotube (MWNT) sponge plays a key role in interfacial properties, and together with well‐dispersed CNT in the polymer matrix, a superior interfacial shear strength (>12 MPa), enhanced tensile strength and toughness is achieved. These coaxial cables demonstrate high mechanical damping ability and can serve as stretchable conductors maintaining high electrical conductivity during large‐strain cyclic deformation. These results indicate a promising route toward developing continuous CNT fiber‐based composites with wide applications as structural and multi‐functional composite materials.
Field‐Free Switching of Magnetization by Tilting the Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy of Gd/Co Multilayers
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Joong , Moon Kyoung‐Woong , Tran Bao Xuan , Yoon Seongsoo , Kim Changsoo , Yang Seungmo , Ha Jae‐Hyun , An Kyongmo , Ju Tae‐Seong , Hong Jung‐Il , Hwang Chanyong
Published: March 2022

Efficient current‐induced switching of perpendicular magnetization is an essential task in spintronics for realizing high‐performance information processing and for storage device application. However, the spin‐orbit torque (SOT) by injection of in‐plane polarized spins cannot deterministically switch the magnetization of ferromagnetic thin films with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) without an additionally applied in‐plane external magnetic field to break the symmetry of the PMA. Considering the difficulties of applying the magnetic field to the localized area only within a device structure, it is essential to contrive a facile field‐free SOT switching mechanism. Here, deterministic field‐free SOT switching of perpendicular magnetization is achieved in amorphous and ferrimagnetic Gd/Co multilayers accompanied by a tilted magnetic anisotropy axis. This tilted anisotropy originates from the combined contributions of many internal anisotropies in different orientations from the multilayers and is shown to be controllable. It is expected that the introduction of controlled tilted anisotropy into Gd/Co multilayers over the entire film surface in the present study can be extended to the development of wafer‐scale technologies for the spintronics memory and logic devices.
Bioinspired Perspiration‐Wicking Electronic Skins for Comfortable and Reliable Multimodal Health Monitoring
Authors: Xu Yanting , Guo Wei , Zhou Shiqing , Yi Haokun , Yang Guoqing , Mei Shuxing , Zhu Kanhao , Wu Hao , Li Zhuo
Published: March 2022

Electronic skins (e‐skins) have gained tremendous attention in health monitoring and disease diagnosis. However, the accumulated sweat at the skin/e‐skin interface would compromise the comfort, reliability, and fidelity for long‐term monitoring. Here, inspired by the active liquid transport phenomenon in nature, a biomimetic gold/thermoplastic polyurethane/cellulose membrane (Au/TPU/CM) based e‐skin is reported that can “pump” perspiration from the interface immediately through the combination of gradient porosity and surface energy gradient. The resulting electrode possesses good conductivity (2.68 Ω sq–1), excellent flexibility (the resistance only fluctuated 1.1% and 0.4% after 10 000 bending cycles and 2500 tensile cycles, respectively), and outstanding water vapor transmission and water evaporation rate (2.2 and 7.1 times as much as that of cotton fabric, respectively). The ultrafast perspiration‐wicking capability not only improves the wearing comfort but also minimizes the measurement error of skin hydration and temperature due to perspiration, eliminates the risk of short circuit in sensor array, and reduces the noise level, significantly enhancing the accuracy and reliability of multimodal sensing in e‐skins. The design strategy may encourage more material and structure development in e‐skins with improved sweat tolerance.
Materials with Tunable Optical Properties for Wearable Epidermal Sensing in Health Monitoring
Authors: Han Fei , Wang Tiansong , Liu Guozhen , Liu Hao , Xie Xueyong , Wei Zhao , Li Jing , Jiang Cheng , He Yuan , Xu Feng
Published: March 2022

Advances in wearable epidermal sensors have revolutionized the way that physiological signals are captured and measured for health monitoring. One major challenge is to convert physiological signals to easily readable signals in a convenient way. One possibility for wearable epidermal sensors is based on visible readouts. There are a range of materials whose optical properties can be tuned by parameters such as temperature, pH, light, and electric fields. Herein, this review covers and highlights a set of materials with tunable optical properties and their integration into wearable epidermal sensors for health monitoring. Specifically, the recent progress, fabrication, and applications of these materials for wearable epidermal sensors are summarized and discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives for the next generation wearable devices are proposed.
Protein‐Encoding Free‐Standing RNA Hydrogel for Sub‐Compartmentalized Translation
Authors: Ahn So Yeon , Kim Jeonghun , Vellampatti Srivithya , Oh Sung , Lim Yong Taik , Park Sung Ha , Luo Dan , Chung Junho , Um Soong Ho
Published: March 2022

RNA can self‐fold into complex structures that can serve as major biological regulators in protein synthesis and in catalysis. Due to the abundance of structural primitives and functional diversity, RNA has been utilized for designing nature‐defined goals despite its intrinsic chemical instability and lack of technologies. Here, a robust, free‐standing RNA hydrogel is developed through a sequential process involving both ligation and rolling circle transcription to form RNA G‐quadruplexes, capable of both catalytic activity and enhancing expression of several proteins in sub‐compartmentalized, phase‐separated translation environments. The observations suggest that this hydrogel will expand RNA research and impact practical RNA principles and applications.
Low‐Profile Planar Antenna Sensor Based on Ti3C2Tx MXene Membrane for VOC and Humidity Monitoring
Authors: Khorsand Kazemi Kasra , Hu Shujun , Niksan Omid , Adhikari Kishor Kumar , Tanguy Nicolas Roland , Li Shibo , Arjmand Mohammad , Zarifi Mohammad H.
Published: March 2022

Detection of volatile organic compounds (VOC)s is of great interest in industrial and environmental applications due to the severe impact of VOCs on human health and the environment, including climate change and ozone layer depletion. This study investigates the implementation of a Ti3C2Tx MXene as radiating and sensing element to develop a VOC and humidity sensing antenna. The performance of the sensor is validated by introducing various VOCs, including acetone, ethanol, IPA, and methanol, in an isolated custom‐made chamber while the antenna sensor is communicating with a distanced receiver antenna. Measured results confirm that the exposure of the MXene antenna sensor to VOCs causes an upshift in the operating frequency of the antenna sensor. The study successfully demonstrates the potential of the proposed Ti3C2Tx MXene antenna sensor in detecting acetone concentrations ranging from 8 to 80 parts per thousand (ppt). In addition, the sensor detects different humidity concentrations ranging between 77.8 ± 2% to 94 ± 1%, where for 94 ± 1% of humidity, a 213.1 MHz of frequency shift is observed. As a proof of concept, the developed MXene antenna sensor shows a promising potential for wireless gas and humidity sensing applications in the environmental and industrial sectors.
Development of an NAD(H)‐Driven Biocatalytic System for Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Amino Acids
Authors: Cheng Feng , Zhang Jia‐Min , Jiang Zhen‐Tao , Wu Xiao‐Hu , Xue Ya‐Ping , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: March 2022

Chiral amino acids are extensively applied in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and agricultural industries. As a representative example, l‐phosphinothricin (l‐PPT, a chiral non‐natural amino acid) is a broad‐spectrum herbicide. An NAD(H)‐driven biocatalytic system for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral amino acids (focused on l‐PPT) with high efficiency and low cost is highly desired. The key for the development of such biocatalytic system is to obtain an NADH‐dependent biocatalyst with high catalytic performance toward l‐PPT pro‐ketone PPO. Herein, an engineered glutamate dehydrogenase from Lysinibacillus composti (LcGluDH) with desired activity was obtained by gene mining and protein engineering. In silico analyses suggested that the volume of substrate‐binding pocket was substantially enlarged from 330.5 Å3 to 409.6 Å3. The stability of LcGluDH was increased (Tm value increased from 47.3 °C to 65.3 °C) by introducing positively charged amino acids or aromatic amino acids at position 375. The desired biocatalytic system was constructed by coupling the engineered LcGluDH and an NAD+‐dependent FDH. Through this biocatalytic system, the batch production of l‐PPT exhibited high space‐time yield (207.3 g ⋅ L−1 ⋅ day−1) with strict stereoselectivity (ee of l‐PPT>99%). Furthermore, eight other chiral amino acids were synthesised by the developed NAD(H)‐driven biocatalytic system with high ee values.

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A Proton‐Barrier Separator Induced via Hofmeister Effect for High‐Performance Electrolytic MnO2–Zn Batteries
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Yang Jinlong , Liu Zaichun , Tan Rui , Chuai Mingyan , Sun Jifei , Xu Yan , Zheng Xinhua , Wang Mingming , Ahmad Touqeer , Chen Na , Zhu Zhengxin , Li Ke , Chen Wei
Published: March 2022

Electrolytic MnO2–Zn batteries with economic advantages and high energy density are viable candidates for large‐scale energy storage. However, the spontaneous reactions between acidic electrolytes and Zn metal anode cause severe proton‐induced hydrogen evolution which is difficult to avoid. Herein, a proton‐barrier separator (PBS) based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is fabricated via the Hofmeister effect for preventing hydrogen evolution. Experiments and theoretical calculations demonstrate that the concentrated sulfate enables PVA chains to form a discontinuous hydrogen bond network as well as isolated hydrophilic cavities. This unique feature can effectively obstruct proton migration to impede proton‐induced hydrogen evolution, but allow for fast Zn2+ transfer with excellent stability. Electrolytic MnO2–Zn batteries with PBS deliver high energy retention (91.2% after 200 cycles) and largely enhanced rate performance (20 C) in a high areal capacity of 6.67 mAh cm−2 with a very low cost ($1 m−2) as compared to commercial anion exchange membranes (8 C). This work sheds light on new avenues for the development of stable electrolytic MnO2–Zn batteries by deploying PBS for preventing hydrogen evolution through a cost‐effective fabrication method, which is a universal approach that can be applied to design other stable aqueous metal‐ion batteries.
Catalytic Asymmetric β‐Oxygen Elimination**
Authors: Matt Christof , Orthaber Andreas , Streuff Jan
Published: March 2022

A catalytic enantioselective β‐O‐elimination reaction is reported in the form of a zirconium‐catalyzed asymmetric opening of meso‐ketene acetals. Furthermore, a regiodivergent β‐O‐elimination is demonstrated. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions, at low catalyst loadings, and produces chiral monoprotected cis‐1,2‐diols in good yield and enantiomeric excess. The combination with a Mitsunobu reaction or a one‐pot hydroboration/Suzuki reaction sequence then gives access to additional diol and aminoalcohol building blocks. A stereochemical analysis supported by DFT calculations reveals that a high selectivity in the hydrozirconation step is also important for achieving high enantioselectivity, although it does not constitute the asymmetric step. This insight is crucial for the future development of related asymmetric β‐elimination reactions.
Rhodium‐NHC‐Catalyzed gem‐Specific O‐Selective Hydropyridonation of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Galiana‐Cameo María , Romeo Raúl , Urriolabeitia Asier , Passarelli Vincenzo , Pérez‐Torrente Jesús J. , Polo Victor , Castarlenas Ricardo
Published: March 2022

The dinuclear complex [Rh(μ‐Cl)(η2‐coe)(IPr)]2 is an efficient catalyst for the O‐selective Markovnikov‐type addition of 2‐pyridones to terminal alkynes. DFT calculations support a hydride‐free pathway entailing intramolecular oxidative protonation of a π‐alkyne by a κ1N‐hydroxypyridine ligand. Subsequent O‐nucleophilic attack on a metallacyclopropene species affords an O‐alkenyl‐2‐oxypyridine chelate rhodium intermediate as the catalyst resting state. The release of the alkenyl ether is calculated as the rate‐determining step.
Highly efficient flame retardant and smoke suppression mechanism of polypropylene nanocomposites based on clay and allylamine polyphosphate
Authors: Xiao Dan , Zheng Meng‐Ting , Gohs Uwe , Wagenknecht Udo , Voit Brigitte , Wang De‐Yi
Published: March 2022

Fire‐retarded polymer nanocomposites (FRPN) based on polypropylene with clay and allylamine polyphosphate (PP/clay‐AAPP) were designed and prepared by melt mixing. Their morphological, thermal and fire‐safety properties were investigated by TEM, SEM, EDS, TG, UL‐94, LOI, cone‐calorimeter test and TG‐FTIR. The results exhibited that the LOI of PP/2 wt%clay‐20wt%AAPP nanocomposites was 29.5% with V‐0 rating level in UL‐94 vertical testing. Significant enhancements in fire safety performance were also observed for fire‐retarded PP nanocomposites from cone‐calorimeter test decreasing heat release as well as smoke and toxic gases. PP/clay‐AAPP nanocomposites not only provided relatively stable char layer during polymer burning, but also exhibited better fire safety performance due to the exfoliation of clay platelets. It displayed that incorporation of clay and AAPP were very efficient in increasing the fire safety of PP composites.
The transnational in‐between identity of Chinese student returnees from the UK: Mobility, variations and pathways
Authors: Wang Suyang
Published: March 2022

Considering the rising tide of international student return mobility, the UK needs to pay attention to the long‐term circulation and development of international student returnees. This study analyses the mobility, variations and pathways of the transnational in‐between identity of Chinese student returnees from the UK, an under‐researched group in the changing dynamics of international student mobility. This longitudinal study uses original data from 48 semi‐structured interviews to show how student returnees’ identities change over time in transnational sociocultural contexts. This study develops a spider chart comprising multiple manifestations of transnational selves to account for returnees’ intermediary and heterogeneous states of transnational in‐between identities. Based on the empirical evidence, the study finds that transnational in‐between identity is characterised by a ‘self‐in‐between mobility’, seeking compromises and connections between the polar extremes of essentialist and non‐essentialist approaches to identity. In such an identification process, the changing dynamics of agency play a pivotal role in (re)shaping multiple identity pathways as variegated temporal outcomes of mobility. The findings not only advance the theoretical and methodological constructs of identity, but also have implications for relevant concerns in international education.
Das neue DBV‐Merkblatt „BIM‐Prozessqualität“
Authors: Bastert Heinrich , Meyer Julian , Orf Matthias
Published: March 2022

Mit dem neuen DBV‐Merkblatt „BIM‐Prozessqualität“ erweitert der DBV seine umfangreiche Merkblattsammlung. Ziel des neuen DBV‐Merkblatts ist die Darstellung praxistauglicher Planungsstrukturen als Handlungsempfehlungen für die Hochbauplanung mit Building Information Modeling (BIM). Dazu gehört vor allem bereits zu Projektbeginn die Etablierung geeigneter Arbeitsabläufe und ‐bedingungen für die Einbindung von BIM als Grundlage für die Beauftragung von Planungsleistungen. Ein wesentlicher Schwerpunkt des DBV‐Merkblatts liegt in der Tragwerksplanung als einer zentralen Planungsdisziplin mit zahlreichen Schnittstellen zu anderen Planungsdisziplinen und diversen Planableitungen, z. B. für die Haustechnikgewerke. Viele der für die Tragwerksplanung vorgestellten Empfehlungen zu geeigneten Projektstrukturen sind allgemeingültig und auf die übrigen Planungsdisziplinen übertragbar. Darüber hinaus werden die aus Sicht der Tragwerksplanung besonderen Anforderungen an die Arbeitsweise mit BIM dargestellt. Der vorliegende Bericht stellt die wichtigsten Inhalte des neuen DBV‐Merkblatts vor und erläutert beispielhaft die praktische Umsetzung anhand des Ablaufs bzw. von Einzelaspekten für ein Hochbauprojekt.
Realisierung der neuen AirportAcademy auf dem LabCampus am Münchner Flughafen
Authors: Sonderegger Eric , Beliaev Dmitrii , Lorber Stefan , Ott Markus , Uhl Hubert
Published: March 2022

Am neuen LabCampus auf dem Gelände des Flughafens München plant und erstellt die Ed. Züblin AG als Generalübernehmerin den Neubau des Trainingszentrums AirportAcademy für die LabCampus GmbH. Besonders bautechnisch herausfordernd ist das tragende außen liegende Betonfachwerk über zwei Geschosse. Das Tragwerk folgt von der Formgebung her den Start‐ und Landebahnen des Flughafens und ist umlaufend ohne jegliche Dilatationsfugen ausgeführt. Über seitlich anschließende Stahlverbundträger und die aufgehenden Fassadenpfeiler unterstützt das Betonfachwerk die darüberliegenden Geschosse. Neben zahlreichen Interaktionen in der Tragwerksfindung und ‐planung in Kombination mit hoch beanspruchten Knotenpunkten stellt der Anspruch einer gleichbleibenden Ästhetik des später um den kompletten Gebäudeumfang sichtbaren Außentragwerks eine besondere Herausforderung an das Schalungssystem und an den Betonbau dar.