bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The reuse of public datasets in the life sciences: potential risks and rewards
Authors: Sielemann Katharina , Hafner Alenka , Pucker Boas
Published: September 2020

The ‘big data’ revolution has enabled novel types of analyses in the life sciences, facilitated by public sharing and reuse of datasets. Here, we review the prodigious potential of reusing publicly available datasets and the associated challenges, limitations and risks. Possible solutions to issues and research integrity considerations are also discussed. Due to the prominence, abundance and wide distribution of sequencing data, we focus on the reuse of publicly available sequence datasets. We define ‘successful reuse’ as the use of previously published data to enable novel scientific findings. By using selected examples of successful reuse from different disciplines, we illustrate the enormous potential of the practice, while acknowledging the respective limitations and risks. A checklist to determine the reuse value and potential of a particular dataset is also provided. The open discussion of data reuse and the establishment of this practice as a norm has the potential to benefit all stakeholders in the life sciences.
What Makes Employees Productive and Have High Performance? Human Capital Investment in Universities
Authors: Nurmahmudah Fitri , Putra Eka Cahya Sari
Published: September 2020

The study describes the evaluation results concerning the improvement of the education levels among the employees of a university in Indonesia by making an investment in education. The study is aimed at investigating the employees’ productivity and performance after making an investment in education. This study with evaluation method using discrepancy model. The sample of the study consisted of 255  non-academic university employees. Data were collected by way of a questionnaire on Guttmann scale. The questionnaire was validated by using logical and empirical validation by a Pearson correlation technique and reliability by KR-20 technique. The data analysis with descriptive. To calculate the capital human investment, the human capital investment formula was used for finding payback period, benefit/cost ration, return-on-investment, net-present-value, and internal-rate-of-return. The results of the study showed that the employees who made human capital investment in education were able to increase their productivity and performance as their insights, knowledge, and skills improved. The research findings were able to give insights to leaders in high-level institutions or government institutions that investing in education is truly essential, needs more attention, and needs to be done by employees.
Diversification Strategies among Rural Farm Family Households in Different Agro-climatic Zones of J&K Union Territory, India
Authors: Nanda Rakesh , Singh A. K. , Peshin Rajinder , Sharma L. K. , Sharma Parvani
Published: September 2020

Aims: The diversification of a portfolio is an alternative strategy for households to minimize their income variability and to ensure a minimum level of income.

Study Design: Multi-stage sampling, binary logistic regression and logit regression design were used for the study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Jammu & Kashmir State (Union Territory) in the year of 2016-17 with a total sample size of 630 farming families drawn from the four agro-ecological zones.

Methodology: From each selected villages, 15 farming families were drawn randomly without replacement and out of 15 farm families only 10 families were retained for analysis.

Results: An average gross income from on-farm enterprise was Rs. 77,623 per annum and from off-farm activities the average income was Rs. 1,17,643 per annum. Education, size of family members and fragmented land holdings were the push factors which motivated the farming family households to diversify towards other activities.

Conclusion: The study further suggested that there is a need to develop education and skill development training among the farm family households, as it will surely provide a positive impact on the ability to diversify their other livelihood options.
Influence of Crop Rotation and Soil Fertility Management Strategies on Water Use Efficiency of Wheat in a Changing Climate in Njoro Sub-County in Kenya
Authors: Ooro P. A. , Birech R. J. , Malinga J. N. , Thuranira E. , Digo C. , Taiy R.
Published: September 2020

Aims: The study determined the effect of soil fertility management (inorganic and organic N sources) and short term crop rotation (cereal – legumes cropping systems) on water use efficiency of wheat in high potential areas.

Study Design: A randomized complete block design was used with split-split-plot arrangement replicated three times. Three factors evaluated included water harvesting (WH), crop rotation (CR) and soil fertility management (SFM). The data obtained were subjected to an analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat statistical package while the mean separation was performed using least significance differences (P =.05).

Place and Duration of Study: The trial was conducted at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) fields based in Njoro for three years between 2014 and 2016 during rainy seasons.

Methodology: Water harvesting was evaluated at consisted of flat beds (WH1) and tied ridges (WH2), crop rotation was tested at four levels comprising of Wheat- Dolichos lablab (Lablab purpureum)-Wheat- L. purpureum (CR1); Wheat-Greenpea (P. sativum) –Wheat (Triticum aestivum L)- P. sativum (CR2); T. aestivum L-potato- P. sativum –Potato (Solanum tuberosum) (CR3); and Wheat-Wheat-Wheat-Wheat) (CR4). Six different soil fertility management (SFM) strategies evaluated included SFM1 = untreated control; SFM2 = Farm Yard Manure at 5 t ha-1; SFM3 = Green manure (L.eucaena triachandra) at 2.5 mt ha-1; SFM4 = Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) at 25 kg N ha-1; SFM5 = Calcuim Ammonium Nitrate at 50 kg N ha-1; and SFM6 = Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) at 75 kg N ha-1. The Water harvesting (WH) and SFM were fixed on the same plot at the form and rate for the entire period of the study while crops were rotated between seasons. Water use efficiency was derived as a ratio of water use and grain yield and biomass.

Results: Results revealed significant (P =.05) effect of crop rotation and soil fertility management on water use efficiency. However, water harvesting did not influence. While interaction of CR and SFM significantly (P =.05) influenced WUE and grain yield. Significant influence was also observed on WUE due to an interaction between WH and SFM. Dolichos lablab (L. purpureum) and green pea as pre-crops resulted in higher yield than when potato was the pre-crop and continuous wheat.  Use of inorganic N fertilizer with L. purpureum as a pre-crop resulted in higher grain yield than all other soil fertility management strategies evaluated. In conclusion, the use of green pea as a pre-crop during the short rain followed by wheat in long rains is a beneficial crop rotation systems and a climate smart strategy. In addition, organic N sources should be recommended for sustainable wheat production because it will positively influence the accumulation and slow release of soil moisture for increased water use efficiency.
Associating dose–volume characteristics with theoretical radiobiological metrics for rapid Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery plan evaluation
Authors: Tien Christopher J. , Bond James E. , Chen Zhe (Jay)
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To examine general dose–volume characteristics in Gamma Knife (GK) plans which may be associated with higher tumor control probability (TCP) and equivalent uniform dose (EUD) using characteristic curve sets.

Methods

Two sets of dose–volume histograms (DVHs) were exported alongside an analytical purpose‐generated DVH: (a) single‐shot large collimator (8 or 16 mm) emulated with multiple shots of 4 mm collimator. (b) shot‐within‐shot (SWS) technique with isodose lines (IDLs) of 40–75%. TCP, average dose, EUD in single‐fraction (EUDT) and 2 Gy fractionated regimens (EUDR) were examined for trends with cumulative DVH (cDVH) shape as calculated using a linear‐quadratic cell survival model (α/β = 10.0 Gy, N0 = 1 × 106) with both α = 0.20 Gy−1 and α = 0.23 Gy−1.

Results

Using α = 0.20 Gy−1 (α = 0.23 Gy−1), plans in the analytical set with higher shoulder regions had TCP, EUDT, EUDR increased by 180%, 5.9%, 10.7% (11.2%, 6.3%, 10.0%), respectively. With α = 0.20 Gy−1 (α = 0.23 Gy−1), plans with higher heels had TCP, EUDT, EUDR increased by 4.0%, <1%, <1% (0.6%, <1%, <1%), respectively. In emulating a 16 (8) mm collimator, 64 (12) shots of the small collimators were used. Plans based on small collimators had higher shoulder regions and, with α = 0.20 Gy−1 (α = 0.23 Gy−1), TCP, EUDT, EUDR was increased up to 351.4%, 5.0%, 8.8% (270.4%, 5.0%, 6.8%) compared with the single‐shot large collimator. Delivery times ranged from 10.2 to 130.3 min. The SWS technique used 16:8 mm collimator weightings ranging from 1:2 to 9.2:1 for 40–75% IDL. With α = 0.20 Gy−1 (α = 0.23 Gy−1), the 40% IDL plan had the highest shoulder with increased TCP, EUDT, EUDR by 130.7%, 9.6%, 17.1% (12.9%, 9.1%, 16.4%) over the 75% IDL plan. Delivery times ranged 6.9–13.8 min.

Conclusions

The magnitude of the shoulder region characteristic to GK cDVHs may be used to rapidly identify superior plan among candidates. Practical issues such as delivery time may require further consideration.
Humidity‐Responsive Blue Phase Liquid‐Crystalline Film with Reconfigurable and Tailored Visual Signals
Authors: Hu Wei , Sun Jian , Wang Qian , Zhang Lanying , Yuan Xiaotao , Chen Feiwu , Li Kexuan , Miao Zongcheng , Yang Dengke , Yu Haifeng , Yang Huai
Published: September 2020

Liquid‐crystalline polymers have been applied to a wide variety of stimuli‐responsive materials; however, the inevitable mesogenic alignment or extra complicated preparation hinders their further application and large‐scale fabrication. Here, fabrication of free‐standing blue phase liquid‐crystalline (BPLC) film is reported by using one well‐designed system composed of specially designed hydrogen‐bonded mesogenic precursors, which can spontaneously self‐assemble into 3D nanostructures without additional orientation treatment. Upon corrosion in alkaline solution, the BPLC film shows reversible humidity‐responsive behaviors by manipulating their lattice parameters of the nanostructures. The unique stimuli‐responsive behaviors originate from tunable 3D periodic nanostructures of soft materials are reprogrammable, reconfigurable, and visual, showing their potentials for advanced applications as sensor, display, and anticounterfeiting.
Hybrid Low‐Dimensional Carbon Allotropes Formed in Gas Phase
Authors: Ahmad Saeed , Mustonen Kimmo , McLean Ben , Jiang Hua , Zhang Qiang , Hussain Aqeel , Khan Abu Taher , Ding Er‐Xiong , Liao Yongping , Wei Nan , Monazam Mohammad R. A. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Kotakoski Jani , Page Alister J. , Kauppinen Esko I.
Published: September 2020

Graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and fullerenes are the basic set of low‐dimensional carbon allotropes. The latter two arise from the former by selective removal and addition of carbon atoms. Nevertheless, given their morphological disparities, the production of each is typically devised from entirely different starting points. Here, it is demonstrated that all three allotropes can nucleate from (pseudo‐)spherical, nanometer‐sized transition metal clusters in a gas‐suspension when the chemical conditions are favorable. The experimental results indicate that graphitic carbon embryos nucleate on the catalyst particles and sometimes transform into 2D graphene flakes through chain polymerization of carbon fragments forming in the surround gas atmosphere. It is further shown that hydrogenation reactions play an essential role by stabilizing the emerging flakes by mitigating the pentagon and heptagon defects that lead into evolution of fulleroids. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations show that the ratio of hydrogen to carbon in the reaction is a key growth parameter. Since structural formation takes place in a gas‐suspension, graphene accompanied by fullerenes and single‐walled CNTs can be deposited on any surface at ambient temperature with arbitrary layer thicknesses. This provides a direct route for the production and deposition of graphene‐based hybrid thin films for various applications.
Programmable Delivery of Synergistic Cancer Drug Combinations Using Bicompartmental Nanoparticles
Authors: Gregory Jason V. , Vogus Douglas R. , Barajas Alexandra , Cadena Melissa A. , Mitragotri Samir , Lahann Joerg
Published: September 2020

Delivery of multiple therapeutics has become a preferred method of treating cancer, albeit differences in the biodistribution and pharmacokinetic profiles of individual drugs pose challenges in effectively delivering synergistic drug combinations to and at the tumor site. Here, bicompartmental Janus nanoparticles comprised of domains are reported with distinct bulk properties that allow for independent drug loading and release. Programmable drug release can be triggered by a change in the pH value and depends upon the bulk properties of the polymers used in the respective compartments, rather than the molecular structures of the active agents. Bicompartmental nanoparticles delivering a synergistic combination of lapatinib and paclitaxel result in increased activity against HER2+ breast cancer cells. Surprisingly, the dual drug loaded particles also show significant efficacy toward triple negative breast cancer, even though this cancer model is unresponsive to lapatinib alone. The broad versatility of the nanoparticle platform allows for rapid exploration of a wide range of drug combinations where both their relative drug ratios and temporal release profiles can be optimized.
Organic Semiconductors Processed from Synthesis‐to‐Device in Water
Authors: Rahmanudin Aiman , Marcial‐Hernandez Raymundo , Zamhuri Adibah , Walton Alex S. , Tate Daniel J. , Khan Raja U. , Aphichatpanichakul Suphaluk , Foster Andrew B. , Broll Sebastian , Turner Michael L.
Published: September 2020

Organic semiconductors (OSCs) promise to deliver next‐generation electronic and energy devices that are flexible, scalable and printable. Unfortunately, realizing this opportunity is hampered by increasing concerns about the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particularly toxic halogenated solvents that are detrimental to the environment and human health. Here, a cradle‐to‐grave process is reported to achieve high performance p‐ and n‐type OSC devices based on indacenodithiophene and diketopyrrolopyrrole semiconducting polymers that utilizes aqueous‐processes, fewer steps, lower reaction temperatures, a significant reduction in VOCs (>99%) and avoids all halogenated solvents. The process involves an aqueous mini‐emulsion polymerization that generates a surfactant‐stabilized aqueous dispersion of OSC nanoparticles at sufficient concentration to permit direct aqueous processing into thin films for use in organic field‐effect transistors. Promisingly, the performance of these devices is comparable to those prepared using conventional synthesis and processing procedures optimized for large amounts of VOCs and halogenated solvents. Ultimately, the holistic approach reported addresses the environmental issues and enables a viable guideline for the delivery of future OSC devices using only aqueous media for synthesis, purification and thin‐film processing.
All‐Oxide Transparent Thin‐Film Transistors Based on Amorphous Zinc Tin Oxide Fabricated at Room Temperature: Approaching the Thermodynamic Limit of the Subthreshold Swing
Authors: Lahr Oliver , Bar Michael S. , von Wenckstern Holger , Grundmann Marius
Published: September 2020

Thin‐film transistors (TFTs) based on transparent amorphous oxide semiconductors (TAOSs) have become essential building blocks for a broad range of electronics, since TAOSs facilitate large‐scale fabrication at moderate temperatures and hence feature compatibility with flexible substrates. An emerging indium‐free alternative to the widely commercially exploited indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) is amorphous zinc tin oxide (ZTO); however, according to previous reports, achieving acceptable performance of ZTO‐based devices fabricated at temperatures below 300 °C is still challenging to date. Here, key properties of the first all‐oxide and fully transparent metal‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MESFETs), metal‐insulator‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MISFETs) and junction field‐effect transistors (JFETs) based on amorphous ZTO are compared, employing PtOx, HfOy, and p‐type NiO as gate, respectively. All individual layers have been deposited exclusively at room temperature and do not require any additional postdeposition annealing to obtain sufficient device functionality. Demonstrated TFTs exhibit reasonable current on/off ratios of over six orders of magnitude with subthreshold swings as low as 61 mV dec–1 at room temperature. Transistor characteristics have been recorded for several weeks to study performance consistency over time and are further investigated regarding their stability under bias stress.
Explorations into the Effect of meso‐Substituents in Tricarbocyanine Dyes: A Path to Diverse Biomolecular Probes and Materials
Authors: Exner Rüdiger M. , Cortezon‐Tamarit Fernando , Pascu Sofia I.
Published: September 2020

Polymethine cyanine dyes have been widely recognized as promising chemical tools for a range of life science and biomedical applications, such as fluorescent staining of DNA and proteins in gel electrophoresis, fluorescence guided surgery, or as ratiometric probes for probing biochemical pathways. The photophysical properties of such dyes can be tuned through the synthetic modification of the conjugated backbone, for example, by altering aromatic cores or by varying the length of the conjugated polymethine chain. Alternative routes to shaping the absorption, emission, and photostability of dyes of this family are centered around the chemical modifications on the polymethine chain. This Minireview aims to discuss strategies for the introduction of substituents in the meso‐position, their effect on the photophysical properties of these dyes and some structure–activity correlations which could help overcome common limitations in the state of the art in the synthesis.
Revealing Isolated M−N3C1 Active Sites for Efficient Collaborative Oxygen Reduction Catalysis
Authors: Li Feng , Han Gao‐Feng , Bu Yunfei , Noh Hyuk‐Jun , Jeon Jong‐Pil , Shin Tae Joo , Kim Seok‐Jin , Wu Yuen , Jeong Hu Young , Fu Zhengping , Lu Yalin , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: September 2020

Single atom catalysts (SACs) are of great importance for oxygen reduction, a critical process in renewable energy technologies. The catalytic performance of SACs largely depends on the structure of their active sites, but explorations of highly active structures for SAC active sites are still limited. Herein, we demonstrate a combined experimental and theoretical study of oxygen reduction catalysis on SACs, which incorporate M−N3C1 site structure, composed of atomically dispersed transition metals (e.g., Fe, Co, and Cu) in nitrogenated carbon nanosheets. The resulting SACs with M−N3C1 sites exhibited prominent oxygen reduction catalytic activities in both acidic and alkaline media, following the trend Fe−N3C1 > Co−N3C1 > Cu−N3C1. Theoretical calculations suggest the C atoms in these structures behave as collaborative adsorption sites to M atoms, thanks to interactions between the d/p orbitals of the M/C atoms in the M−N3C1 sites, enabling dual site oxygen reduction.
Phase morphology evolution and thermally conductive networks of immiscible polymer blends
Authors: Zhang Yang , Xie Hao , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Xianlong , Guo Shaoyun
Published: September 2020

The selective distribution of fillers in multi‐phase polymer blends was dramatically studied to deal with thermal management fields issues. Concerning thermodynamic and kinetic effects of fillers on immiscible polymer blends, the compatibilization of fillers on phase morphology evolution and final construction of thermal conductive pathways were rarely discussed. In this work, BN fillers and polar dispersed phase were introduced into PE through various processing methods. The result showed that filler‐coated shell was formed around the larger‐sized dispersed phase, thereby forming more thermal conductivity network with other fillers in the two‐step processing composites. When the BN content was 20 phr, the thermal conductivity was 0.8271 W/(m·K) for PE/PA6/BN‐two steps composites, which was 95.48% higher than that of PE/PA6 composites. From the perspective of the regulation of the morphological structure of the dispersed phase, this study can provide methods and basic data for improving the thermal conductivity of incompatible polymer blends.
“Mucosal maps” of the canine nasal cavity: Micro‐computed tomography and histology
Authors: Smith Timothy D. , Craven Brent A. , Engel Serena M. , Van Valkenburgh Blaire , DeLeon Valerie B.
Published: September 2020

Nasal turbinals, delicate and complex bones of the nasal cavity that support respiratory or olfactory mucosa (OM), are now easily studied using high resolution micro‐computed tomography (μ‐CT). Standard μ‐CT currently lacks the capacity to identify OM or other mucosa types without additional radio‐opaque staining techniques. However, even unstained mucosa is more radio‐opaque than air, and thus mucosal thickness can be discerned. Here, we assess mucosal thickness of the nasal fossa using the cranium of a cadaveric adult dog that was μ‐CT scanned with an isotropic resolution of 30 μm, and subsequently histologically sectioned and stained. After co‐alignment of μ‐CT slice planes to that of histology, mucosal thickness was estimated at four locations. Results based on either μ‐CT or histology indicate olfactory mucosa is thicker on average compared with non‐olfactory mucosa (non‐OM). In addition, olfactory mucosa has a lesser degree of variability than the non‐OM. Variability in the latter appears to relate mostly to the varying degree of vascularity of the lamina propria. Because of this, in structures with both specialized vascular respiratory mucosa and OM, such as the first ethmoturbinal (ET I), the range of thickness of OM and non‐OM may overlap. Future work should assess the utility of diffusible iodine‐based contrast enhanced CT techniques, which can differentiate epithelium from the lamina propria, to enhance our ability to differentiate mucosa types on more rostral ethmoturbinals. This is especially critical for structures such as ET I, which have mixed functional roles in many mammals.
1,2,3‐Triazole hybrids with anti‐HIV‐1 activity
Authors: Feng Lian‐Shun , Zheng Man‐Jie , Zhao Feng , Liu Duan
Published: September 2020

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) is the major etiological agent responsible for the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is a serious infectious disease and remains one of the most prevalent problems at present. Currently, combined antiretroviral therapy is the primary modality for the treatment and management of HIV/AIDS, but the long‐term use can result in major drawbacks such as the development of multidrug‐resistant viruses and multiple side effects. 1,2,3‐Triazole is the common framework in the development of new drugs, and its derivatives have the potential to inhibit various HIV‐1 enzymes such as reverse transcriptase, integrase, and protease, consequently possessing a potential anti‐HIV‐1 activity. This review covers the recent advances regarding the 1,2,3‐triazole hybrids with potential anti‐HIV‐1 activity; it focuses on the chemical structures, structure–activity relationship, and mechanisms of action, covering articles published from 2010 to 2020.
3D Graphene‐Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Supported Coupled Co‐MnO Nanoparticles as Highly Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Rechargeable Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Zhang Chaoqi , Kong Fantao , Qiao Yu , Zhao Qingbiao , Kong Aiguo , Shan Yongkui
Published: September 2020

The development of high‐efficiency and low‐cost catalysts is one of the core and important issues to improve the efficiency of electrochemical reactions on electrodes, and it is also the goal we ultimately pursue in the commercialization of large‐scale clean energy technologies, such as metal‐air batteries. Herein, a nitrogen‐doped graphene oxide (GO)‐carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrid network supported coupled Co/MnO nanoparticles (Co/MnO@N−C) catalyst was prepared with a hydrothermal‐pyrolysis method. The unique three‐dimensional network structure of substrate allowed for the uniform dispersion of Co−MnO nanoparticles in the carbon skeleton. These characters enable the Co/MnO@N−C to possess the excellent bifunctional electrocatalysts. In alkaline electrolyte, the Co/MnO@N−C presents the outstanding oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance comparable to the commercial RuO2 catalyst and the exceedingly good oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity with positive half‐wave potential of 0.90 V vs. RHE outperforming commercial Pt/C (0.84 V vs. RHE) and the recently reported analogous electrocatalysts. When it is applied to homemade Zn‐air batteries, such a non‐noble metal electrocatalyst can deliver a better power density, specific capacity and cycling stability than mixed Pt/C and RuO2 catalyst, and exhibits a wide application prospect and great practical value.
Robust H∞ control of uncertain impulsive switched systems
Authors: Li Chunyang , Jiang Junchao , Lian Jie
Published: September 2020

This paper considers robust H∞ control of impulsive switched systems with time‐varying uncertainties and nonlinear impulsive increments. The impulses are not required to synchronize the switching. Instead, the impulse sequences follow an average impulsive interval assumption, in which the restriction on common lower (or upper) bound of two consecutive impulses is dropped. By using the multiple Lyapunov function and average dwell time method, even with high impulse frequency, the robust H∞ control performance can still be guaranteed under some sufficient conditions. Finally, the efficiency of the proposed results is demonstrated by a numerical example.
A Multimodal Study of the Contributions of Conduction Velocity to the Auditory Evoked Neuromagnetic Response: Anomalies in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Roberts Timothy P. L. , Bloy Luke , Ku Matt , Blaskey Lisa , Jackel Carissa R. , Edgar James Christopher , Berman Jeffrey I.
Published: September 2020

This multimodal imaging study used magnetoencephalography, diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to identify and contrast the multiple physiological mechanisms associated with auditory processing efficiency in typically developing (TD) children and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Efficient transmission of auditory input between the ear and auditory cortex is necessary for rapid encoding of auditory sensory information. It was hypothesized that the M50 auditory evoked response latency would be modulated by white matter microstructure (indexed by diffusion MRI) and by tonic inhibition (indexed by GABA MRS). Participants were 77 children diagnosed with ASD and 40 TD controls aged 7–17 years. A model of M50 latency with auditory radiation fractional anisotropy and age as independent variables was able to predict 52% of M50 latency variance in TD children, but only 12% of variance in ASD. The ASD group exhibited altered patterns of M50 latency modulation characterized by both higher variance and deviation from the expected structure–function relationship established with the TD group. The TD M50 latency model was used to identify a subpopulation of ASD who are significant “outliers” to the TD model. The ASD outlier group exhibited unexpectedly long M50 latencies in conjunction with significantly lower GABA levels. These findings indicate the dependence of electrophysiologic sensory response latency on underlying microstructure (white matter) and neurochemistry (synaptic activity). This study demonstrates the use of biologically based measures to stratify ASD according to their brain‐level “building blocks” as an alternative to their behavioral phenotype.

Lay Summary

Children with ASD often have a slower brain response when hearing sounds. This study used multiple brain imaging techniques to examine the structural and neurochemical factors which control the brain's response time to auditory tones in children with ASD and TD children. The relationship between brain imaging measures and brain response time was also used to identify ASD subgroups. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1730–1745. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals LLC
Immobilization of recombinant lysostaphin on nanoparticle through biotin–streptavidin conjugation technology as a geometrical progressed confrontation against Staphylococcus aureus infection
Authors: Ehsani Gelareh , Farahnak Maryam , Norouzian Dariush , Ehsani Parastoo
Published: September 2020

Antibiotic resistance and the colonization of resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus on surfaces, often in the form of biofilms, prolong hospitalization periods and increase mortality, thus is a significant concern for healthcare providers. To prevent biofilm formation, the inadequate concentration of using nanoparticles as antibacterial coating agents is one of the major obstacles. This study aimed to design a hypervalency TiO2 nanocomposite as a reserved base to carry a high amount of active antibacterial agents such as lysostaphin via a biotin–streptavidin–biotin bridge. The utilization of the streptavidin–biotin system could increase the abundance of lysostaphin. Lysostaphin was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. Both recombinant lysostaphin and titanium oxide nanocomposite were conjugated with biotin and linked to a streptavidin bridge. The kinetics and activity of the enzyme were examined after each step utilizing N‐acetylhexaglycine as a substrate. Physical characteristics of nanoparticles containing lysostaphin were determined using AFM, SEM, FTIR, and zeta potential. The results showed changes in size, charge, and morphology of the nanoparticles following the lysostaphin attachment. Also, the stability and kinetics of the active biological enzymes on nanoparticles were reexamined following 8 months of storage. Exploiting this approach, various biotinylated antibacterial agents could be prepared and rapidly immobilized on a nanoparticle as an active net against related infectious agents.
Prehabilitation in elective abdominal cancer surgery in older patients: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Daniels S L , Lee M J , George J , Kerr K , Moug S , Wilson T R , Brown S R , Wyld L
Published: September 2020

Background

Prehabilitation has emerged as a strategy to prepare patients for elective abdominal cancer surgery with documented improvements in postoperative outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the evidence for prehabilitation interventions of relevance to the older adult.

Methods

Systematic searches were conducted using MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL and PsychINFO. Studies of preoperative intervention (prehabilitation) in patients undergoing abdominal cancer surgery reporting postoperative outcomes were included. Age limits were not set as preliminary searches revealed this would be too restrictive. Articles were screened and selected based on PRISMA guidelines, and assessment of bias was performed. Qualitative, quantitative and meta-analyses of data were conducted as appropriate.

Results

Thirty-three studies (3962 patients) were included. Interventions included exercise, nutrition, psychological input, comprehensive geriatric assessment and optimization, smoking cessation and multimodal (two or more interventions). Nine studies purposely selected high-risk, frail or older patients. Thirty studies were at moderate or high risk of bias. Ten studies individually reported benefits in complication rates, with meta-analyses for overall complications demonstrating significant benefit: multimodal (risk difference −0·1 (95 per cent c.i. −0·18 to −0·02); P = 0·01, I2 = 18 per cent) and nutrition (risk difference −0·18 (−0·26 to −0·10); P < 0·001, I2 = 0 per cent). Seven studies reported reductions in length of hospital stay, with no differences on meta-analysis.

Conclusion

The conclusions of this review are limited by the quality of the included studies, and the heterogeneity of interventions and outcome measures reported. Exercise, nutritional and multimodal prehabilitation may reduce morbidity after abdominal surgery, but data specific to older patients are sparse.
C-reactive protein : albumin ratio in patients with resectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Matsumoto T , Itoh S , Yoshizumi T , Kurihara T , Yoshiya S , Mano Y , Takeishi K , Harada N , Ikegami T , Soejima Y , Baba H , Mori M
Published: September 2020

Background

The C-reactive protein : albumin ratio (CAR) has been reported as a novel prognostic marker in several cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of CAR in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

Methods

This was a single-centre retrospective study of patients who underwent surgery for ICC in a university hospital in Japan between 1998 and 2018. CAR, Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) and modified GPS (mGPS) were calculated. Their correlation with recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) was analysed with Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Seventy-two patients were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the optimal CAR cut-off value of 0·02. CAR above 0·02 was associated with higher carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels (20·5 versus 66·1 units/ml for CAR of 0·02 or less; P = 0·002), larger tumour size (3·2 versus 4·4 cm respectively; P = 0·031) and a higher rate of microvascular invasion (9 of 28 versus 25 of 44; P = 0·041). RFS and OS were shorter in patients with CAR above 0·02: hazard ratio (HR) 4·31 (95 per cent c.i. 2·02 to 10·63) and HR 4·80 (1·85 to 16·40) respectively. In multivariable analysis CAR above 0·02 was an independent prognostic factor of RFS (HR 3·29 (1·33 to 8·12); P < 0·001), but not OS.

Conclusions

CAR was associated with prognosis in patients who had hepatic resection for ICC.
Effects of Acetogenins from Annona coriacea on the in Vitro Reactions of Photosynthesis
Authors: Pasqualotto Severino Vanessa Gisele , Souza Simão Jorge Luiz , Moraes Junqueira João Gabriel , Calheiros de Carvalho Ana , King‐Díaz Beatriz , Lotina‐Hennsen Blas , Terezan Ana Paula , Moura Veiga Thiago André
Published: September 2020

Our search for candidates for photosynthesis inhibitors is allowing us to report the effect of two acetogenins identified in Annona coriacea Mart. leaves, ACG−A and ACG−B, a non‐adjacent bis‐THF and a mono‐THF types, respectively. This is an important class of natural products which presents biological properties such as anticancer, neurotoxic, larvicidal and insecticidal. However, this is only the second report associated to its herbicidal activity. Their mechanisms of action on the light reactions of the photosynthesis were elucidated by polarographic techniques. Compounds inhibited the noncyclic electron transport on basal, phosphorylating, and uncoupled conditions from H2O to methyl viologen (MV); therefore, they act as Hill reaction inhibitors. Studies on fluorescence of chlorophyll a (ChL a) indicated that they inhibited the acceptor side of PSII between P680 and PQ‐pool, exactly as the commercial herbicide DCMU does.
Recent Development of Porous Porphyrin‐based Nanomaterials for Photocatalysis
Authors: Jin Lin , Lv Shibo , Miao Yuyang , Liu Dapeng , Song Fengling
Published: September 2020

Porphyrins and their derivatives are abundant in nature and play an important role in plant photosynthesis. To mimic the photosynthetic reactions in plants, researchers have developed numerous porphyrin‐based nanomaterials to convert light into chemical energy. And the porous porphyrin‐based nanomaterials attract great interest in photocatalysis owing to their high surface areas, designable structure, and favorable photocatalytic behavior. In this review, we highlight the recent progress of porous porphyrin‐based nanomaterials for photocatalysis. We offer a structured description of the main classes of the porous porphyrin‐based nanomaterials which consist of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent‐organic frameworks (COFs), amorphous porous organic polymers (APOPs), and hydrogen bonding‐organic frameworks (HOFs). Strategies to improve their photocatalytic behavior in respect of how to boost the photoexcited electron‐hole separation and increase the accessible active sites are mainly highlighted. At last, the prospects and challenges of porous porphyrin‐based nanomaterials for photocatalysis are also discussed.
Metal‐Organic‐Framework‐Derived Porous Carbon Embedded with TiO2 Nanoparticles as a Cathode for Advanced Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Qi Chu , Li Huilan , Wang Jia , Zhao Chengcheng , Fu Cuimei , Wang Lina , Liu Tianxi
Published: September 2020

The undesired internal shuttling of soluble polysulfide intermediates (Li2Sn, 2<n≤8) remains the primary challenge hindering the development of lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries. Engineering and functionalizing the cathode structure to trap Li2Sn is a straightforward approach to address this issue. Metal‐organic framework (MOF)‐derived materials are applausive candidate host materials of sulfur, owing to the highly porous characteristic. In this work, a Ti−MOF‐derived micro‐sized cake‐like carbon skeleton with in situ generated hierarchical pores and anatase TiO2 crystalline grains is applied as an effective sulfur host in Li−S batteries. In this rational design, the pyrolytic porous carbon provides fast ion diffusion and physical confinement of polysulfides. The polar TiO2 affords abundant anchoring sites to achieve chemical encapsulation of sulfur species and accelerate polysulfide conversion kinetics. Benefiting from the fast reaction kinetics, the hybrid sulfur cathode delivers an elevated cycling performance with a capacity decay of only 0.39 % per cycle at 0.5 C (1 C=1675 mA g−1) over 100 cycles. In addition, an improved rate capability of 620 mAh g−1 at 2 °C is obtained. This work affords a facile method to design optimized cathodes towards advanced Li−S batteries.
Investor confidence: Are you your own worst enemy?
Authors: Asaad Colleen Tokar
Published: September 2020

Are overconfident investors more apt to make risky choices, which could erode investor returns? With confidence levels that exceed knowledge levels, investors may unknowingly expose themselves to risk. This paper shows that in terms of investing, overconfidence is associated with increased optimism as well as additional risk‐taking through focused investment strategies. Specifically, overconfident individuals are more likely to be overoptimistic about their individual performance as well as overall market performance; more likely to have confidence in market regulations; less likely to seek the advice of an adviser; more likely to trade on margin; more likely to trade commodities, futures, and options; and more likely to have whole life insurance. Overconfidence may help explain why investorreturns are consistently lower than investmentreturns. These findings are particularly relevant for financial advisers, as they serve the important role of providing feedback and sharing in the decision process.
Blue turns white – Chemistry's Contribution to Sustainable Lighting Using the Example of a LED‐Phosphor
Authors: Diekemper Dominik , Schnick Wolfgang , Schwarzer Stefan
Published: September 2020

Die Chemie leistet einen wesentlichen Beitrag zu einer nachhaltigen, energiesparenden Beleuchtung durch die Entwicklung energieeffizienter und anwenderfreundlicher Leuchtstoffe in LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). So wären ohne die Entwicklung moderner Leuchtstoffe weißes und warmweißes Licht durch LED‐Leuchtmittel in unserem Alltag nicht möglich. Im Rahmen des hier vorgestellten Experiments wird der wichtige LED‐Leuchtstoff Yttrium‐Aluminium‐Granat dotiert mit Cer (Y3Al5O12 : Ce3+, YAG : Ce3+) hergestellt. Die schülergerechte und schulgeeignete Synthese erfolgt in unter einer Minute in einer Haushaltsmikrowelle. Anschließend können die farbkonvertierenden Eigenschaften durch Auftragen des selbst hergestellten Leuchtstoffes auf eine blaue LED direkt nachvollzogen werden.
Red Emissive Carbon Dots Prepared from Polymers as an Efficient Nanocarrier for Coptisine Delivery in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Ren Wei , Nan Fuchun , Li Shumu , Yang Sijin , Ge Jiechao , Zhao Zhenwen
Published: September 2020

Negatively charged fluorescent carbon dots (CDs, Em=608 nm) were hydrothermally prepared from thiophene phenylpropionic acid polymers and then successfully loaded with the positively charged anticancer cargo coptisine, which suffers from poor bioavailability. The formed CD‐coptisine complexes were thoroughly characterized by particle size, morphology, drug loading efficiency, drug release, cellular uptake and cellular toxicity in vitro and antitumor activities in vivo. In this nano‐carrier system, red emissive CDs possess multiple advantages as follows: 1) high drug loading efficiency (>96 %); 2) sustained drug release; 3) enhanced drug efficacy towards cancer cells; 4) EPR effect; 5) drug release tracing with near‐infrared imaging. These properties indicated that red emissive CDs prepared from polymers could be used as a novel drug delivery system with integrated therapeutic and imaging functions in cancer therapy, which are expected to have great potential in future clinical applications.
NMR Spectroscopy of Large Functional RNAs: From Sample Preparation to Low‐Gamma Detection
Authors: Schnieders Robbin , Knezic Bozana , Zetzsche Heidi , Sudakov Alexey , Matzel Tobias , Richter Christian , Hengesbach Martin , Schwalbe Harald , Fürtig Boris
Published: September 2020

NMR spectroscopy is a potent method for the structural and biophysical characterization of RNAs. The application of NMR spectroscopy is restricted in RNA size and most often requires isotope‐labeled or even selectively labeled RNAs. Additionally, new NMR pulse sequences, such as the heteronuclear‐detected NMR experiments, are introduced. We herein provide detailed protocols for the preparation of isotope‐labeled RNA for NMR spectroscopy via in vitro transcription. This protocol covers all steps, from the preparation of DNA template to the transcription of milligram RNA quantities. Moreover, we present a protocol for a chemo‐enzymatic approach to introduce a single modified nucleotide at any position of any RNA. Regarding NMR methodology, we share protocols for the implementation of a suite of heteronuclear‐detected NMR experiments including 13C‐detected experiments for ribose assignment and amino groups, the CN‐spin filter heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) for imino groups and the 15N‐detected band‐selective excitation short transient transverse‐relaxation‐optimized spectroscopy (BEST‐TROSY) experiment. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of isotope‐labeled RNA samples with in vitro transcription using T7 RNAP, DEAE chromatography, and RP‐HPLC purification

Alternate Protocol 1: Purification of isotope‐labeled RNA from in vitro transcription with preparative PAGE

Alternate Protocol 2: Purification of isotope‐labeled RNA samples from in vitro transcription via centrifugal concentration

Support Protocol 1: Preparation of DNA template from plasmid

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of PCR DNA as template

Support Protocol 3: Preparation of T7 RNA Polymerase (T7 RNAP)

Support Protocol 4: Preparation of yeast inorganic pyrophosphatase (YIPP)

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of site‐specific labeled RNAs using a chemo‐enzymatic synthesis

Support Protocol 5: Synthesis of modified nucleoside 3′,5′‐bisphosphates

Support Protocol 6: Preparation of T4 RNA Ligase 2

Support Protocol 7: Setup of NMR spectrometer for heteronuclear‐detected NMR experiments

Support Protocol 8: IPAP and DIPAP for homonuclear decoupling

Basic Protocol 3: 13C‐detected 3D (H)CC‐TOCSY, (H)CPC, and (H)CPC‐CCH‐TOCSY experiments for ribose assignment

Basic Protocol 4: 13C‐detected 2D CN‐spin filter HSQC experiment

Basic Protocol 5: 13C‐detected C(N)H‐HDQC experiment for the detection of amino groups

Support Protocol 9: 13C‐detected CN‐HSQC experiment for amino groups

Basic Protocol 6: 13C‐detected “amino”‐NOESY experiment

Basic Protocol 7: 15N‐detected BEST‐TROSY experiment
Perceived corporate social responsibility and pro‐environmental behaviors: The role of organizational identification and coworker pro‐environmental advocacy
Authors: Shah Syed Haider Ali , Cheema Sadia , Al‐Ghazali Basheer M. , Ali Muhammad , Rafiq Nosheen
Published: September 2020

Despite research suggesting that pro‐environmental behaviors offer a range of positive benefits for organizations and that corporate social responsibility (CSR) positively affects employee behaviors and attitudes, very few studies have investigated how CSR affects pro‐environmental behaviours. As such, this study investigates the impact of perceived CSR on employees' pro‐environmental behaviours through organizational identification and coworkers' pro‐environmental advocacy. Using a multistage sampling technique, a survey of line managers was conducted across 32 hotels in the understudied context of Malaysia's hotel industry. Based on 331 completed questionnaires, the results suggest that perceived CSR activities drive organizational identification and trigger coworkers’ pro‐environmental advocacy, which in turn generate employees’ pro‐environmental behaviours. The study offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between perceived CSR and pro‐environmental behaviors and discusses the theoretical and research contributions and managerial implications.
Adaptive two‐stage spectrum sensing model using energy detection and wavelet denoising for cognitive radio systems
Authors: Fawzi Ahmed , El‐Shafai Walid , Abd‐Elnaby Mohammed , Zekry Abdelhalim , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E.
Published: September 2020

This paper presents an efficient adaptive two‐stage spectrum sensing model for the cognitive radio (CR) systems. The proposed model combines two well‐known techniques: energy detection (ED) and wavelet denoising (WD). The ED technique is employed to identify the existence of the primary user (PU) signal in the case of high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) by comparing the received signal with a threshold. In the case of lowSNR, the ED technique alone cannot be adopted for decision making about the status of the PU due to the noise impact on the received signals. Hence, the stage of WD is exploited prior to the ED for reducing the noise effect and detecting the PU signal in the presence of noise. The detection performance of the proposed model is compared with those of the ED alone and the previous related two‐stage spectrum sensing methods. Simulation results show that the proposed model improves the false alarm rate compared to the ED alone by 36% and 6%, respectively, at lowSNRs of −15 and −20 dB. Also, the proposed model yields the smallest detection time compared to the previous two‐stage spectrum sensing methods. The proposed model can be used to minimize the probability of false alarm, achieve a better probability of detection, and improve the sensing process in CR systems.