bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of blood urea nitrogen to serum albumin ratio in the prediction of severity and 30‐day mortality in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Alirezaei Toktam , Hooshmand Saeede , Irilouzadian Rana , Hajimoradi Behzad , Montazeri Sadra , Shayegh Arash
Published: May 2022

Background

Considering the role of higher blood urea nitrogen and lower serum albumin (SA) levels in deceased coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients, an increased blood urea nitrogen to SA (B/A) ratio may help to determine those at higher risk of critical illness. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation of the B/A ratio with severity and 30‐day mortality in COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

A total of 433 adult patients with COVID‐19 were enrolled. The laboratory markers were measured on admission. Disease severity was categorized into mild disease, severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), sepsis, and septic shock. The mortality was followed for 30 days after admission. χ2 test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann–Whitney U test were performed, as appropriate. Also, logistic regression and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for the B/A ratio are included.

Results

Thirty‐day mortality rate was 27.25%. The frequency of mild, severe pneumonia, ARDS, sepsis, and septic shock was 30.72%, 36.95%, 24.02%, 6.00%, and 2.31%, respectively. B/A ratio and SA levels were statistically different between alive and deceased patients. The mean B/A ratio was different among classified disease severities, except for mild disease. Logistic regression revealed the B/A ratio as an independent risk factor for sepsis after adjusting for age and sex. ROC analysis showed B/A ratio had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.733 for mortality at the cutpoint of 4.944. AUC for sepsis was 0.617 which was greater than other disease severities.

Conclusion

The results showed that B/A ratio and SA levels are associated with mortality of COVID‐19 patients. A higher B/A ratio is, additionally, associated with COVID‐19 severity, except in mild cases and it can act as an independent risk factor in sepsis. However, a greater B/A ratio is not a significant predictor of COVID‐19 severity, but it can predict mortality. Therefore, we suggest this marker for clinical assessment of patients with severe COVID‐19.
The effects of prenatal smoke exposure on language development ‐ a systematic review
Authors: Peixinho Jessica , Toseeb Umar , Mountford Hayley S. , Bermudez Isabel , Newbury Dianne F.
Published: May 2022

The negative health effects of cigarette smoking during pregnancy (SDP) on the foetus are well known. Despite previous reports of poor cognitive performance in offspring exposed to SDP, few studies specifically consider language outcomes according to maternal smoking. In this study, we systematically review the literature to assess the relationships between SDP and child language. Of the 14 studies reviewed, 13 (93%) reported significant associations between maternal smoking or exposure and language outcomes. Despite this consistent association, only 8 of the 13 studies reporting associations (62%) concluded direct relationships between exposure and outcome. The remaining studies suggested that the relationship between smoking and language could be explained by factors such as maternal IQ, socioeconomic status (SES) and parental age. Future studies should apply careful study designs allowing for confounding factors across child, parental, environmental and genetic influences. Our review suggests that smoking cessation is likely to positively affect child language outcomes.

Highlights

Does maternal smoking during or exposure to smoking during pregnancy affect the language outcomes in exposed offspring?

A systematic review of the literature highlighted consistent negative effects of smoking or smoke exposure during pregnancy on language outcomes.

Exposure to SDP is associated with language. Mothers must be educated regarding the effects of tobacco smoking on language outcomes.
Such a tease! Production and uses of teaser rams, bucks, boars and bulls
Authors: Crilly JP , Wood Max , Reilly Beth
Published: May 2022

Background: Male livestock rendered sterile through vasectomy or epididymectomy, but still hormonally and behaviourally sexually active, have many uses. In small ruminants they can be used to advance the breeding season and puberty, synchronise and detect oestrus and improve conception rates to artificial insemination. In pigs, they can be used to hasten first oestrus in gilts and detect oestrus in sows. In cattle, they can be used to aid heat detection for artificial insemination.

Aim of the article: This article outlines the surgical techniques used to produce such ‘teaser’ animals and discusses how they can be best used, as well as the alternatives to their use.
Experimental study on novel biodegradable Zn–Fe–Si alloys
Authors: Zeng Yuxin , Guan Zeyi , Linsley Chase S. , Pan Shuaihang , Liu Jingke , Wu Benjamin M. , Li Xiaochun
Published: May 2022

Bioabsorbable metals are increasingly attracting attention for their potential use as materials for degradable implant devices. Zinc (Zn) alloys have shown great promises due to their good biocompatibility and favorable degradation rate. However, it has been difficult to maintain an appropriate balance among strength, ductility, biocompatibility, and corrosion rate for Zn alloys historically. In this study, the microstructure, chemical composition, mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and corrosion rate of a new ternary zinc−iron–silicon (Zn–Fe–Si) alloy system was studied as a novel material for potential biodegradable implant applications. The results demonstrated that the in situ formed Fe–Si intermetallic phases enhanced the mechanical strength of the material while maintaining a favorable ductility. With Fe–Si reinforcements, the microhardness of the Zn alloys was enhanced by up to 43%. The tensile strength was increased by up to 76% while elongation to failure remained above 30%. Indirect cytotoxicity testing showed the Zn‐Fe‐Si system had good biocompatibility. Immersion testing revealed the corrosion rate of Zn–Fe–Si system was not statistically different from pure Zn. To understand the underlying phase formation mechanism, the reaction process in this ternary system during the processing was also studied via phase evolution and Gibbs free energy analysis. The results suggest the Zn–Fe–Si ternary system is a promising new material for bioabsorbable metallic medical devices.
Pregnenolone derivatives as potential anti‐lung cancer agents: A combined in silico and in vitro approach
Authors: Sethi Arun , Yadav Priyanka , Singh Ranvijay Pratap , Kumar Saurabh , Parveen Shama , Singh Asmita , Yadav Astha , Banerjee Monisha
Published: May 2022

Synthesis of C‐3 and C‐20 pregnenolone derivatives using Steglich and Heck reaction has been reported. The structures of compounds were established by 1H, 13C NMR, NOESY, FT‐IR, and ESI‐MS. The anticancer activity against lung cancer proficiency assessment was performed using the prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS) technique and the results were compared with the FDA‐approved lung cancer drug dacomitinib. Molecular docking studies were carried out to investigate the inhibitory action of steroidal derivatives against the lung cancer cell protein (2ITO). The result of the docking exhibited a significant inhibitory action against the lung cancer protein (2ITO) and the binding energy (ΔG) values of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 against the protein 2ITO were found to be −10.1, −10.8, −9.2, −9.4, −10.1, −9.4, −11.0, −10.9, −9.7, and −9.5 Kcal/mol, respectively. In vitro lung cancer activity analyses of these compounds against lung cancer cell line (A549) showed that compounds 2 and 3 were more potent than other compounds. Results of in silico and in vitro analysis revealed that they showed good correlation. Drugs likeness and ADMET analysis of all derivatives have also been studied.
Diagnostic value of HSP90α and related markers in lung cancer
Authors: Yuan Zhimin , Wang Longhao , Hong Songlin , Shi Changbei , Yuan Bin
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To investigate the expression of heat shock protein 90α (HSP90α) in patients with lung cancer (LC) and the clinical value of HSP90α and other related markers in the diagnosis of LC.

Methods

Of 335 patients enrolled in the study cohort, 175 were screened for LC and 160 were healthy (HC). The plasma levels of HSP90α and related markers (CEA, NSE, CYFRA21‐1 and ProGRP) were detected in all individuals in the cohort by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Groups were divided according to gender (male/female), age (≤60 years/>60 years), types of LC (small‐cell carcinoma, squamous carcinoma and adenocarcinoma), staging (I, II, III and IV) and metastasis (metastasis and non‐metastasis) separately. Wilcoxon Mann–Whitney test and Kruskal–Wallis test were used to compare statistical differences between two groups/among the multiple groups for each factor of HSP90α. The r‐value and Kappa were used to compare HSP90α with related markers, and the receiver operating curve (ROC) was used to evaluate the efficacy of plasma HSP90α in predicting LC.

Results

No statistical difference was found in the plasma level of HSP90α among different age and gender groups (p > 0.05). In the group divided by LC type, staging and metastasis status, there were statistical differences among different groups in HSP90α level (p < 0.05). The levels of HSP90α, CEA, NSE, CYFRA21‐1 and ProGRP in LC groups were significantly higher than HC (p < 0.001). R values of HSP90α correlated with other related markers in the diagnosis of LC (p < 0.05). Although HSP90α and other related markers did not fit the satisfactory conformance, in terms of the positive rate of diagnosis, it was statistically differences in the diagnostic positive rate between HSP90α and each marker (p < 0.01). ROC analysis showed that a plasma HSP90α cut‐off point of 50.02 ng/ml had an optimal predictive value for LC.

Conclusions

HSP90α has significant clinical value in early screening and diagnosis of LC. The combined application of HSP90α and related markers can improve the positive rate of early diagnosis of LC effectively.
Characteristics of ST11 KPC‐2‐producing carbapenem‐resistant hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae causing nosocomial infection in a Chinese hospital
Authors: Ouyang Pengwen , Jiang Bin , Peng Na , Wang Juan , Cai Liang , Wu Yi , Ye Jianrong , Chen Yiping , Yuan Hao , Tan Chaochao , Tan Liming , Xie Liangyi
Published: May 2022

Background

The purpose of our study is to analyze the microbiological and clinical characteristics of carbapenem‐resistant hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR‐hvKP) that causes nosocomial infection.

Methods

We collected the carbapenem‐resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP) strains that caused nosocomial infection in a hospital in China and collected the relevant clinical data. We characterized these strains for their antimicrobial and virulence‐associated phenotype and genotype and analyzed the clonal relatedness. We screened hypervirulent strains and compared them with non‐hypervirulent strains.

Results

We retrospectively analyzed 62 CRKP strains that caused nosocomial infection in a tertiary hospital within 1 year, of which 41 (41/62, 66.1%) CRKP were considered as CR‐hvKP. All CR‐hvKP strains were multi‐drug resistance (MDR) and the vast majority of isolates (39/41, 95.1%) were ST11 KPC‐2‐producing strains. Two hypermucoviscous isolates and 4 capsular types were found in 41 CR‐hvKP. Twenty‐nine isolates (29/41, 70.7%) showed hypervirulence in Galleria mellonella infection model. PFGE showed that ST11‐KL47 CR‐hvKP and ST11‐KL64 CR‐hvKP exhibited a high degree of clonality, while non‐hypervirulent strains were not significant. CR‐hvKP had higher positive rates of blaKPC‐2 and blaCTX‐M‐65 and higher levofloxacin resistance (p < 0.001, p = 0.005 and p = 0.046, respectively) when compared to the non‐hypervirulent strains. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of in‐hospital mortality (7/41, 17.1% vs 5/21, 23.8%, p = 0.743).

Conclusion

Our research finds that ST11 KPC‐2‐producing CR‐hvKP is the main type of CRKP that caused nosocomial infection, and clonal spread has occurred. We provide more information about CR‐hvKP in health care.
Associations of experiential avoidance with burnout, wellbeing, and productivity loss among police officers: The mediating role of negative and positive affect
Authors: Mojallal Mahsa , Simons Raluca M. , Quevillon Randal P. , Hatwan Mason L.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The current study aims to investigate the indirect associations between experiential avoidance (EA) and burnout, wellbeing, and productivity loss (PL) via the mediating role of positive and negative emotions among police officers.

Methods

Data were collected on 187 officers (84% male) aged 21–64 years between 2019 and 2020. Participants completed online self‐report measures.

Results

EA was indirectly associated with burnout via positive and negative affect. EA was indirectly associated with wellbeing through positive affect, positive affect and burnout, and negative affect and burnout. Finally, EA was indirectly associated with PL via positive affect and burnout, and negative affect and burnout.

Conclusion

Results provide support for the role of EA in officers' wellbeing and job performance via increasing negative affect and decreasing positive affect. This highlights the importance of interventions, such as acceptance and commitment therapy that target acceptance and psychological flexibility.
Synthesis and characterization of impurities of Apixaban drug substance—An anticoagulant
Authors: Satheesh Deekonda , Sreenivasulu B. , Reddy Bhavanam Sekhara , Reddy U. Rajasekhar , Saladi J. S. Chakradhar , Gupta P. Badrinath , Reddy Aaramadaka Sunil Kumar , Aegurla Balakrishna , Basavaiah Keloth
Published: May 2022

Apixaban is an anticoagulant used to treat venous thromboembolic disorders. The present work describes the origin and synthesis of related substances of Apixaban PG ester‐1 and PG ester‐2. These impurities arise in the process of Apixaban drug substance, later these impurities are transformed into the final Apixaban drug substance. These novel synthesized impurities were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HPLC, and HRMS analysis.
Long‐range precipitation forecast based on multipole and preceding fluctuations of sea surface temperature
Authors: Wu Xushu , Guo Shenglian , Qian Shuni , Wang Zhaoli , Lai Chengguang , Li Jun , Liu Pan
Published: May 2022

Long‐range precipitation forecasting is crucial for flooding control and water resources management. However, making precise forecasting is rather difficult due to the complex climatic factors and large uncertainties arising from long lead times. Sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) is one of the strongest signals that influence regional precipitation, often used for the development of precipitation forecasts. Traditional models using SSTA for precipitation forecasting usually screen SSTA over fixed oceanic zones and neglect its preceding temporal fluctuation information. In this study, we introduce a multipole SSTA index and the preceding fluctuation modes of SSTA to develop a monthly precipitation forecasting model, which is applied to the upper Yangtze River basin in China where monthly precipitation during May–October for the period of 1961–2020 are forecasted. Results show that more significant SSTA poles correlated with precipitation are found for September than for the other months. The new approach is able to forecast monthly precipitation for May–October in the basin, particularly for September. It outperforms traditional statistical and dynamical models and has much more skill in forecasting precipitation for June–September when heavy precipitation is more likely to occur than for May or October. Our approach enriches the knowledge of the relationship between precipitation and SSTA, which is conducive to the improvement of long‐range precipitation forecasting.
Late Quaternary paleoenvironmental reconstructions from sediments of Lake Emanda (Verkhoyansk Mountains, East Siberia)
Authors: Andreev Andrei A. , Nazarova Larisa B. , Lenz Marlene M. , Böhmer Thomas , Syrykh Ludmila , Wagner Bernd , Melles Martin , Pestryakova Ludmila A. , Herzschuh Ulrike
Published: May 2022

Continuous pollen and chironomid records from Lake Emanda (65°17′N, 135°45′E) provide new insights into the Late Quaternary environmental history of the Yana Highlands (Yakutia). Larch forest with shrubs (alders, pines, birches) dominated during the deposition of the lowermost sediments suggesting its Early Weichselian [Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5] age. Pollen‐ and chironomid‐based climate reconstructions suggest July temperatures (TJuly) slightly lower than modern. Gradually increasing amounts of herb pollen and cold stenotherm chironomid head capsules reflect cooler and drier environments, probably during the termination of MIS 5. TJuly dropped to 8 °C. Mostly treeless vegetation is reconstructed during MIS 3. Tundra and steppe communities dominated during MIS 2. Shrubs became common after ~14.5 ka bp but herb‐dominated habitats remained until the onset of the Holocene. Larch forests with shrub alder and dwarf birch dominated after the Holocene onset, ca. 11.7 ka bp. Decreasing amounts of shrub pollen during the Lateglacial are assigned to the Older Dryas and Younger Dryas with TJuly ~ 7.5 °C. TJuly increased up to 13 °C. Shrub stone pine was present after ~7.5 ka bp. The vegetation has been similar to modern since ca. 5.8 ka bp. Chironomid diversity and concentration in the sediments increased towards the present day, indicating the development of richer hydrobiological communities in response to the Holocene thermal maximum.
Effect of solvent composition on the extraction of proteins from hemp oil processing stream
Authors: Cabral Eduarda M , Poojary Mahesha M , Lund Marianne N , Curtin James , Fenelon Mark , Tiwari Brijesh K
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Hempseed meal, a by‐product of the hempseed oil processing stream, is a potential alternative source for food proteins. Efficient extraction of proteins from hempseed meal is challenging owing to differences in the structure and solubility of various protein fractions present in the seed. In the present study, protein was extracted from hempseed meal using four different solvents, including aqueous NaOH, KOH, NaHCO3 and NaCl, at four different concentrations with the aim of improving the recovery of protein fractions rich in essential amino acids.

RESULTS

Extraction using alkaline solvents provided superior protein recovery (60–78%) compared with NaCl solution and control extractions (20–48% and 21%, respectively). The concentration of alkali or salt (0.25–1 mol L−1) had a minor but significant impact on the yield. Amino acid composition analysis revealed that hempseed meal contains 24% (54.5 ± 0.19 mg g−1) essential amino acids of total amino acids, and extraction with NaOH, KOH, NaHCO3 or NaCl did not improve the selective extraction of essential amino acids compared to control experiments. Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) analysis allowed the identification of edestin and albumin in the extracts obtained with NaHCO3 and NaCl solvents, with results further showing that the type of extraction solvent influences protein extraction selectivity.

CONCLUSION

Although alkali solvents provide superior extraction yields, extraction with water resulted in extracts containing the highest proportion of proteins bearing essential amino acids. According to the results of SDS‐PAGE, extraction using alkali solvents induced protein crosslinking. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Hepatic arterial infusion pump chemotherapy combined with systemic therapy for patients with advanced colorectal liver metastases: Outcomes in a newly established program
Authors: Walker Brett S. , Billingsley Kevin G. , Sutton Thomas L. , Kolbeck Kenneth J. , Korngold Elena K. , Nabavizadeh Nima , Dewey Elizabeth N. , Herzig Daniel O. , Lopez Charles D. , Mayo Skye C.
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives

Colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with colorectal cancer. Hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) chemotherapy has been demonstrated to improve survival in patients with resected CRLM and to facilitate conversion of technically unresectable disease.

Methods

Between 2016 and 2018, n = 22 HAI pumps were placed for CRLM. All patients received systemic chemotherapy concurrently with HAI floxuridine/dexamethasone. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

HAI pumps were placed in seven patients with completely resected CRLM and 15 patients with unresectable disease. Twenty‐one patients received HAI floxuridine with a median of 5 total HAI cycles (interquartile range: 4–7). Biliary sclerosis was the most common HAI‐related complication (n = 5, 24%). Of the 13 patients treated to convert unresectable CRLM, 3 (23%) underwent hepatic resection with curative intent after a median of 7 HAI cycles (range: 4–10). For all HAI patients, the mean OS was 26.7 months from CRLM diagnosis, while the median PFS and hepatic PFS from pump placement were 9 and 13 months, respectively.

Conclusion

Concomitant HAI and systemic therapy can be utilized at multidisciplinary programs for patients with advanced CRLM, both in the adjuvant setting and to facilitate conversion of unresectable disease.
Lymphadenectomy for lung carcinoids: Which factors may predict nodal upstaging? A multi centric, retrospective study
Authors: Chiappetta Marco , Lococo Filippo , Sperduti Isabella , Cusumano Giacomo , Terminella Alberto , Fournel Ludovic , Guerrera Francesco , Filosso PierLuigi , Tabacco Diomira , Nicosia Samanta , Alifano Marco , Gallina Filippo , Facciolo Francesco , Margaritora Stefano
Published: May 2022

Objective

To investigate risk factors for nodal upstaging in patients with lung carcinoids and to understand which type of lymphadenectomy is most appropriate.

Methods

Data regarding patients with lung carcinoids, who underwent surgical resection and lymphadenectomy in five institutions from January 1, 2005 to December 31, 2019, were collected and retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and pathological tumor characteristics were correlated to analyze lymph node upstaging.

Results

The analysis was conducted on 283 patients. Pathology showed 230 typical and 53 atypical carcinoids. Nodal and mediastinal upstaging occurred in 33 (11.6%) and 16 (5.6%) patients, respectively. At the univariable analysis, nodal upstaging was significantly correlated with central location (p = 0.003), atypical histology (p < 0.001), pT dimension (p = 0.004), and advanced age (p = 0.043). The multivariable analysis confirmed atypical histology (odds ratio [OR]: 11.030; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.837−25.153, p < 0.001) and central location (OR: 3.295; 95% CI: 1.440−7.540, p = 0.005) as independent prognostic factors for nodal upstaging. Atypical histology (p < 0.001), pT dimension (p = 0.036), number of harvested lymph node stations (p = 0.047), and type of lymphadenectomy (p < 0.001) correlated significantly with mediastinal upstaging. The multivariable analysis confirmed atypical histology (OR: 5.408; 95% CI: 1.391−21.020, p = 0.015) and pT (OR: 1.052; 95% CI: 1.021−1.084, p = 0.001) as independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

Atypical histology, dimension, and central location are associated with a high‐risk for occult hilo‐mediastinal metastases, and mediastinal radical dissection may predict nodal upstaging. Thus, we suggest radical mediastinal lymph node dissection in high‐risk tumors, reserving sampling, or lobe‐specific dissection in peripheral, small typical carcinoids.
Simultaneous determination of trace level riot control agents in environmental water by solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector
Authors: Hao Shangpeng , Wang Haitao , Zhao Wenbo , Sun Chao , Gao Runli , Zhang Yuanpeng
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a direct immersion solid‐phase microextraction procedure for the simultaneous analyses of four primary riot control agents: 2‐chloroacetophenone, o‐chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, dibenz(b,f)‐1,4‐oxazepine, and oleoresin capsicum at μg/L concentration from environmental water was developed. Several parameters that influence the extraction effectiveness were investigated, including fiber type, extraction temperature, extraction time, starring rate, and salinity. Under the recommended conditions, the optimized method had reasonable linearity and accuracy. The average recovery of this method ranged from 84 to 108.1%. The limit of detection for all the analytes ranged from 0.2 to 3 μg/L and the limit of quantification ranged from 1 to 10 μg/L, respectively. A relative standard deviation from 3.0 to 4.3% can be achieved depending on the compounds. The procedure was applied to analyze all the four riot control agents simultaneously in several environmental samples.
Early warning of regional land‐use ecological security issues: A case‐study of Xingguo County, China
Authors: He Yafen , Cheng Hao , Xie Hualin , He Qing
Published: May 2022

Poor land use remains a major threat to ecological security. Land ecological security early warning and simulation of land‐use patterns based on the ‘anti‐planning’ theory provide many research bases for maintaining land ecological security. However, their utility with respect to illegal development and construction is limited. This study defines the concept of early warning based regional land‐use ecological security and builds a framework system for it. A case‐study investigation was carried out using land use, natural geography and social and economic basic data in Xingguo County, Jiangxi Province, China. The ecological red line zone (a sustainable ecological infrastructure for regional development similar to the municipal infrastructure) of the case area was 1816.16 km2, accounting for 56.49% of the total area; the core zone was 138.23 km2, accounting for 4.30% of the total area. For the natural development scenario, regional construction land pattern changes spread from the centre to the surroundings. In early warning land‐use ecological security, serious alerts were more concentrated in Lianjiang Town, Changgang Township, and Butou Township; moderate alerts were less concentrated and distributed in Longping Township and light alerts were more scattered and distributed in many townships. We propose corresponding prevention strategies for different levels of alerts. The construction of an early warning mechanism for regional land‐use ecological security can assist land spatial planning in regional development. More importantly, it can formulate land‐use ecological risk prevention strategies in advance.
Study of time fractional proportional delayed multi‐pantograph system and integro‐differential equations
Authors: Singh Brajesh Kumar , Agrawal Saloni
Published: May 2022

This paper is devoted to the implementation of fractional differential transform method (FDTM) for the evaluation of new approximations for the fractional models of the system of multi‐pantograph differential equations. Some new properties of FDTM have also been proposed for the fractional integro‐differential equations. It is noteworthy that the integro‐differential equations are studied for integers in the literature, and we have proposed the solutions of proportional delayed integro‐differential equations for fractional order. The evaluated results are verified numerically by considering some test examples of fractional integro‐differential equations and fractional models of the system of multi‐pantograph differential equations. The outcomes conclude that evaluated series solutions via FDTM promise more appropriate approximations possess very negligible error and represent the convergent approximations. Thus, evaluated series solutions are comparatively more accurate and require less computational time.
A low‐power‐consumption massive MIMO scheme based on multibeam antenna array
Authors: Fu Pengyu , Zhang Yongjian , Hu Mingzhe , Chen Zixuan , Liu Peiqin , Li Yue
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a low‐power‐consumption massive multiple‐input and multiple‐output (MIMO) scheme with an integrated multibeam antenna array is proposed for the green fifth‐generation (5G) communication base stations. The referenced antenna array includes 8 × 16 dual‐polarized antennas with Butler matrix networks, leading to low radiofrequency (RF) complexity and low consumption. The measured results demonstrate that the antenna array achieves four beam clusters with a 45° coverage in  elevated plane, with gain of 15.4 dBi at 3.6 GHz. Based on this, the generated beam clusters and corresponding RF chains can be switched independently according to the real‐time user scenario. It is analyzed that the consumption for both RF chains and computation can be reduced with a similar channel capacity compared with the conventional phased array. With the merits of low complexity and low consumption, the proposed massive MIMO scheme exhibits promising usage for green 5G base station applications.
Online self‐regulated learning and academic procrastination: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Ma Minjie , Li Miao , Wang Qianqian , Qiu Arui , Wang Tingzhao
Published: May 2022

Online learning has recently replaced traditional offline learning as the mainstream learning model for Chinese college students owing to the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study examined the relationship between online self‐regulated learning and academic procrastination among 1149 Chinese undergraduates who participated in online learning. The effects of online self‐regulated learning on academic procrastination and whether it was mediated by attention control and moderated by peer support were investigated. Mediation analyses revealed that attention control partially mediates online self‐regulated learning and academic procrastination. Peer support moderated the direct effect of online self‐regulated learning and the mediating effect of attention control on academic procrastination. Our findings provide important ways to reduce academic procrastination and mitigate the adverse impacts of online learning.
A method for phenotyping roots of large plants
Authors: Rinehart Brian , Poffenbarger Hanna , Lau Daniel , McNear Dave
Published: May 2022

Linking root traits to plant functions can enable crop improvement for yield and ecosystem functions. However, plant breeding efforts targeting belowground traits are limited by appropriate phenotyping methods for large root systems. While advances have been made allowing for imaging large in situ root systems, many of these methods are inaccessible due to expensive technology requirements. The aim of this work was to develop a plant phenotyping platform and analysis method suitable for assessing root traits of large, intact root systems. With the use of a purpose‐built imaging table and automated photo capture system, machine learning‐based image segmentation, and off‐the‐shelf trait analysis software, the developed method yielded results of comparable accuracy to commercial root scanning platforms without requiring access to prohibitively expensive equipment. This methodology enables root studies to move beyond the size limitations of scanner‐based methods, integrate whole‐system traits like root depth distribution, and save time on root image capture.
A pH‐ and redox‐stimulated responsive hollow mesoporous silica for triggered delivery of fungicides to control downy mildew of Luffa cylindrica
Authors: Yang Liupeng , Chen Huiya , Yan Wenjuan , Huang Suqing , Cheng Dongmei , Xu HanHong , Zhang Zhixiang
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Downy mildew, a devastating disease of cucurbitaceous crops caused by Pseudoperonospora cubensis. Although a variety of fungicides are used to control downy mildew, choosing an effective product can be challenging. Environmental stimulus‐responsive pesticide delivery systems have great potential to improve the effectiveness of disease and pest control and reduce the impact on environmentally beneficial organisms.

RESULTS

In this work, a disulfide bond (SS)‐modified and chitosan oligosaccharide (COS)‐capped hollow mesoporous silica (HMS) pesticide delivery system was synthesized using a hard template method for the control of downy mildew in cucurbit crops. The synthesized nanoparticles were loaded with dimethomorph (DMM), denoted as DMM@HMS‐SS‐COS, and the developmental toxicity of these nanoparticles to zebrafish embryos were evaluated. The results showed that the prepared DMM@HMS‐SS‐COS exhibited excellent dual response properties to pH and glutathione (GSH), with an encapsulation rate of up to 24.36%. DMM@HMS‐SS‐COS has good ultraviolet (UV) radiation stability and adhesion properties. Compared with dimethomorph suspension concentrate (SC), DMM@HMS‐SS‐COS was more effective against downy mildew for up to 21 days. Toxicity tests showed that DMM@HMS‐SS‐COS significantly reduced the effect of DMM on the hatching rate and survival rate of zebrafish embryos.

CONCLUSIONS

This work not only demonstrates that DMM@HMS‐SS‐COS could be used as a nanodelivery system for intelligent control of downy mildew but also emphasizes the necessity of increasing the acute toxicity of nanoformulations to non‐target organisms in environmental risk assessment. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
CYP314A1‐dependent 20‐hydroxyecdysone biosynthesis is involved in regulating the development of pupal diapause and energy metabolism in the Chinese citrus fruit fly, Bactrocera minax
Authors: Zhou Zhi‐Xiong , Dou Wei , Li Chuan‐Ren , Wang Jin‐Jun
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Diapause is an environmentally preprogrammed period of arrested development, and characterized by metabolic depression that can occur during any development stage of insect. The insect steroid hormone 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E), is converted from ecdysone by the cytochrome P450 enzyme shade (CYP314A1), and it exerts a potent effect on the induction and maintenance of diapause in obligatory diapause insects. However, the regulatory mechanism of 20E in obligatory diapause development remains unclear. In this study, the function of 20E in the pupal diapause of Bactrocera minax was investigated.

RESULTS

We determined the expression pattern of Halloween P450 genes from larval to adult B. minax, and found differential expression of CYP314A1 from other P450 genes, with a high level in larvae and a low level in pupae. Dysfunction of CYP314A1 by dsCYP314A1 microinjection in third‐instar larvae caused significant larval mortality or abnormal pupae. Compared with dsGFP and DEPC‐water, dsCYP314A1‐injected larvae had significantly reduced 20E titer and altered energy metabolism, and many individuals failed to pupate. Exogenous 20E microinjected into late third‐instar larvae or 20E fed to early third‐instar larvae both caused similar energy metabolism changes. The 20E‐treated larvae of B. minax had reduced total lipids and increased amounts of trehalose and glycogen. Furthermore, 20E‐treated diapause individuals showed rapid pupal development.

CONCLUSION

The 20E biosynthesis was regulated by the expression of CYP314A1, and was involved in the induction and termination phase of obligate diapause by regulating energy metabolism in B. minax. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Interface Engineering of CZTS/TiO2Heterojunction Using Wide‐Bandgap Ga2O3Passivation Interlayer for Efficient Charge Extraction
Authors: Nisika  , Ghosh Anupam , Kaur Damanpreet , Kaur Kulwinder , Yadav Manoj K. , Bag Ankush , Kumar Mukesh
Published: May 2022

The greatest challenge for further improving the efficiency of Cu2ZnSnS4(CZTS) solar cells is the high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) loss owing to nonradiation interface recombination. Controlling interfacial defect states and hence eliminating interface‐dominated recombination are imperative for device performance to achieve better charge extraction and collection. In this aspect, interface passivation is an effective way to resolve this issue. An ultrawide‐bandgap Ga2O3film is inserted between CZTS absorber and TiO2electron transport layer to passivate the electrically active interface trap states. The induced field‐effect passivation due to the existence of an additional field of Ga2O3interlayer widens the depletion region width and cures the interfacial defect density. The significant photoluminescence quenching observed after inserting Ga2O3at the CZTS/TiO2heterojunction implies the effective injection of charge carriers from the CZTS absorber to TiO2layer owing to reduced interface defect density. Meanwhile, the substantial decrement in dark current and response time of device with passivated interface further advocates the findings. Herein, a route to understand the variation in interfacial electrical properties after inserting a thin dielectric layer at the interface is provided, which can be beneficial for the further study of CZTS‐based optoelectronic device applications.
Photogalvanic Effect in Graphene‐like BC2P Monolayer from First Principles
Authors: Fu Xi , Cheng Xiaoli , Liao Wenhu , Guo Jiyuan , Gao Haixia , Li Liming
Published: May 2022

Herein, linear photogalvanic effect (PGE) phenomena in the BC2P monolayer without and with P‐, B‐, C‐vacancies, and P‐doping, respectively, is investigated, based on density functional theory (DFT) within the nonequilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) formalism. It is found that a robust linear PGE at the visible light range is produced in both zigzag and armchair directions for the BC2P photodetector, and photoresponse in the armchair direction is greater by three orders of magnitude than that in the zigzag direction, forming a strong anisotropy on PGE. Moreover, the BC2P armchair photodetector possesses relatively high extinction ratio corresponding to a more sensitive polarization detection. However, except for C‐vacancy case, B‐vacancy, P‐vacancy, P‐doping(B), and P‐doping(C) could not enhance the PGE of armchair photodetector. This work demonstrates further application of the BC2P monolayer for novel electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Antibiofilm activity of phytochemicals against Enterococcus faecalis: A literature review
Authors: Ali Islam A. A. , Neelakantan Prasanna
Published: May 2022

Enterococcus faecalis is a leading causative pathogen of recalcitrant infections affecting heart valves, urinary tract, surgical wounds and dental root canals. Its robust biofilm formation, production of virulence factors and antibiotic resistance contribute significantly to its pathogenicity in persistent infections. The decreased effectiveness of most of antibiotics in preventing and/or eradicating E. faecalis biofilms mandates the discovery of alternative novel antibiofilm agents. Phytochemicals are potential sources of antibiofilm agents due to their antivirulence activity, diversity of chemical structure and multiple mechanisms of action. In this review, we describe the phenotypic and genetic attributes that contribute to antimicrobial tolerance of E. faecalis biofilms. We illuminate the benefits of implementing the phytochemicals to tackle microbial pathogens. Finally, we report the antibiofilm activity of phytochemicals against E. faecalis, and explain their mechanisms of action. These compounds belong to different chemical classes such as terpenes, phenylpropenes, flavonoids, curcuminoids and alkaloids. They demonstrate the ability to inhibit the formation of and/or eradicate E. faecalis biofilms. However, the exact mechanisms of action of most of these compounds are not fully understood. Therefore, the future studies should elucidate the underlying mechanisms in detail.
Engineered Nucleotide Chemicapacitive Microsensor Array Augmented with Physics‐Guided Machine Learning for High‐Throughput Screening of Cannabidiol
Authors: Yap Stephanie Hui Kit , Pan Jieming , Linh Dao Viet , Zhang Xiangyu , Wang Xinghua , Teo Wei Zhe , Zamburg Evgeny , Tham Chen‐Khong , Yew Wen Shan , Poh Chueh Loo , Thean Aaron Voon‐Yew
Published: May 2022

The recent legalization of cannabidiol (CBD) to treat neurological conditions such as epilepsy has sparked rising interest across global pharmaceuticals and synthetic biology industries to engineer microbes for sustainable synthetic production of medicinal CBD. Since the process involves screening large amounts of samples, the main challenge is often associated with the conventional screening platform that is time consuming, and laborious with high operating costs. Here, a portable, high‐throughput Aptamer‐based BioSenSing System (ABS3) is introduced for label‐free, low‐cost, fully automated, and highly accurate CBD concentrations’ classification in a complex biological environment. The ABS3 comprises an array of interdigitated microelectrode sensors, each functionalized with different engineered aptamers. To further empower the functionality of the ABS3, unique electrochemical features from each sensor are synergized using physics‐guided multidimensional analysis. The capabilities of this ABS3 are demonstrated by achieving excellent CBD concentrations’ classification with a high prediction accuracy of 99.98% and a fast testing time of 22 µs per testing sample using the optimized random forest (RF) model. It is foreseen that this approach will be the key to the realistic transformation from fundamental research to system miniaturization for diagnostics of disease biomarkers and drug development in the field of chemical/bioanalytics.
Two‐Dimensional Ultra‐Thin Nanosheets with Extraordinarily High Drug Loading and Long Blood Circulation for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang He , Zhang Liang , Cao Zhenbang , Cheong Soshan , Boyer Cyrille , Wang Zhigang , Yun Sung Lai Jimmy , Amal Rose , Gu Zi
Published: May 2022

Nanoparticle drug delivery is largely restricted by the low drug loading capacity of nanoparticle carriers. To address this critical challenge and maximize the potential of nanoparticle drug delivery, a 2D ultra‐thin layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheet with exceptionally high drug loading, excellent colloidal stability, and prolonged blood circulation for cancer treatment is constructed. The nanosheet is synthesized via a biocompatible polymer‐assisted bottom‐up method and exhibits an ultra‐thin 2D sheet‐like structure that enables a considerable amount of cargo anchoring sites available for drug loading, leading to an extraordinary 734% (doxorubicin/nanoparticle mass ratio) drug loading capacity. Doxorubicin delivered by the nanosheet remains stable on the nanosheet carrier under the physiological pH condition, while showing sustained release in the tumor microenvironment and the intracellular environment, thus demonstrating on‐demand drug release as a result of pH‐responsive biodegradation of nanosheets. Using in vitro and in vivo 4T1 breast cancer models, the nanosheet‐based ultra‐high drug‐loading system demonstrates even enhanced therapeutic performance compared to the multilayered LDH‐based high drug‐loading system, in terms of increased cellular uptake efficiency, prolonged blood circulation, superior therapeutic effect, and reduced systemic toxicity.
Fast Self‐Assembly of Photonic Crystal Hydrogel for Wearable Strain and Temperature Sensor
Authors: Liu Haiyang , Wang Yan , Shi Zhekun , Tan Di , Yang Xichen , Xiong Lingheng , Li Gang , Lei Yifeng , Xue Longjian
Published: May 2022

Structural colors from photonic crystals (PCs) have attracted emerging attention in the research area of wearable sensors. Conventional self‐assembly of PC takes days to weeks. Here, a fast self‐assembly method of PC with horizontal precipitation of silica nanoparticles (NPs) in a polydimethylsiloxane fence, which can be completed within 1–4 h depending on the fence parameters, is introduced. The resultant PC exhibits tunable structural colors in the entire visible spectrum. With infiltration of composite hydrogels containing acrylic acid, acrylamide, chitosan, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into the gaps of NPs to form an inverse opal PC, a structural color hydrogel that can quickly respond to different stimuli, including strain and temperature, is obtained. Moreover, with the addition of CNTs, the composite PC hydrogel can also output an electronic signal together with optical color changes. Based on these extraordinary responsive behaviors, the PC hydrogel sensor for quantitative feedback to external stimuli of stretching, bending, pressing, and thermal stimuli, with brilliant color change and electronic signal outputs simultaneously, is demonstrated. This fast‐assembled PC hydrogel with excellent responsive properties has great potential for applications in wearable devices, mechanical sensors, temperature sensors, and colorimetric displays.
Polymer‐Regulated SnO2 Composites Electron Transport Layer for High‐Efficiency n–i–p Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Xu Zhenhua , Zhou Xinming , Li Xiaohui , Zhang Putao
Published: May 2022

SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL) plays a critical role in constructing a planar perovskite solar device. Improving SnO2 ETL properties and understanding of interfacial energy loss are key factors to fabricate highly efficient and reproducible perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a nonionic surfactant, polyethylene oxide‐polypropylene oxide‐polyethylene oxide (P123), is introduced to suppress the aggregation of SnO2 nanoparticles for a uniform SnO2 ETL. The P123 polymer can maintain the SnO2 colloidal size around 10 nm over 72 h at 35 °C and thus promote the dispersion of nanoparticles in SnO2 precursor. By spin coating P123‐doped SnO2 (SnO2‐P) colloid, the compactness and uniformity of SnO2 layer are improved significantly. Correspondingly, SnO2‐P‐based devices demonstrate a champion efficiency with enhanced open‐circuit voltage (V
OC) of 1.162 V. Due to the SnO2/perovskite interface binding interaction, the devices gain a high long‐term stability, retaining 85% of their initial performance after 1000 h storage in air. Equally important, the polymer‐regulated ETL allows a competitive efficiency of 17.44% with active area of 1.00 cm2, exhibiting much potential for large‐scale solar devices. This ETL modification approach provides a new and simple route to improve the quality of SnO2 colloid solution for fabricating efficient perovskite devices.
Impact of Enzyme Modification on Physicochemical Properties of Oat Flake and Starch
Authors: Jeong Jeong Hyun , Hong Soo Yeon , Cho Joong‐Sang , Cho Dong‐Hwa , Park Eun Young
Published: May 2022

Oat flakes are modified with alpha (α)‐amylase and a combination of α‐amylase and cellulase (α‐amylase/cellulase) to determine the effect of enzyme modification on the quality of oat flakes and physicochemical properties of oat starch. Enzyme modification using α‐amylase and cellulase increases the water absorption capacity and decreases the hardness and adhesiveness of oat flakes by degrading long polysaccharide chains. The molecular weight of oat starch modified with α‐amylase and α‐amylase/cellulose is lower than that of native oat starch. Moreover, the depolymerization of starch molecules is more notable in starch modified with α‐amylase/cellulase than in starch modified with α‐amylase alone. α‐Amylase treatment during oat flake processing causes the loss of peak viscosity, while α‐amylase/cellulase treatment results in the loss of both peak and final viscosity of oat starch. In addition, enzyme modification with α‐amylase/cellulase reduces the content of amylose‐lipid complex. Solubility and swelling power are also significantly increased in α‐amylase/cellulase‐modified oat starch. These results indicate that the modification of oat flakes with α‐amylase and cellulase induces changes in starch structure, thereby affecting physicochemical properties of oat starch and quality of flakes.