bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virulence Attributes of Clinical Candida glabrata (Sensu Stricto) Isolates in the West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Nangwat Claude , Ngouana Thierry Kammalac , Dougue Aude Ngueguim , Kountchou Cyrille Levis , Ekpo Alfred Itor , Dzoyem Jean Paul , Tume Christopher Bonglavnyuy
Published: October 2020

Background: Studies on the assessment of the virulence factors of C. glabrata sensu stricto strains are on the rise. This is partly due to the increase in recurrent C. glabrata infections that have contributed to increased mortality rates. Published data on the virulence characteristics of C. glabrata strains in Cameroon are very rare.

Aims: This study aimed at assessing some virulence characteristics, including the capacity to form biofilms and hydrolytic enzymes (protease, esterase and phospholipase).

Methods: Fifty-four (54) molecularly (MALDI-TOF) identified non-duplicate C. glabrata sensu stricto clinical isolates initially collected in a previous study, were used in the present study. These isolates were obtained from stool (S), urine (U), oro-pharyngeal (OPS) and cervico-vaginal (CVS) swabs of pregnant women, diabetic patients (both types 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus), HIV/AIDS and other patients who had neither of these diseases. Phospholipase, protease, esterase and biofilm activities were assessed using previously described methods.

Results: Our results revealed that our isolates were more able to produce phospholipase (37.04%) than they were able to produce protease (1.85%) and esterase (0%). The high producers of phospholipase (Pz < 0.7) originated mostly from oro-pharyngeal swabs (41.17%) of some diabetic patients and pregnant women. Also, all our isolates were formers of biofilm, most (74.42%) of which had lower (< 100%) biofilm formation activity compared to our reference strain. To be able to give a significant conclusion about the virulence characteristics of C. glabrata strains in the west region, we recommend that more studies be carried on a larger number of strains.
Different Cropping System’s Effect on Available NPK Post-harvest and their Uptake on Sandy Loam Soil of Southern Telangana Zone, India
Authors: Kumari Ch. Pragathi , Goverdhan M. , Reddy G. Kiran , Nthebere Knight , Sharma S. H. K. , Qureshi A. Aziz , Alibaba Md. , Chiranjeevi K.
Published: October 2020

The present study was undertaken in the ongoing long-term experiment initiated during 2017 at experimental farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Soil samples collected from a depth of 0–15 cm was analysed for soil fertility parameters namely: available N, P and K. The results indicated that the different cropping systems had positive influence on improving the nutrient status (i.e., available N, P and K) significantly over the initial soil values (N: 112.20, P: 23.40 and K: 170.30 kg ha-1, respectively). These ten cropping systems were grouped in to five categories viz., pre-dominant cropping systems of the zone, ecological cropping systems, household nutritional security giving cropping systems, fodder security giving cropping systems and cropping systems involving high value crops. So that from each category, best cropping system can be identified and can be suggested to different integrated farming systems models. The maximum (221.60 and 221.57 kg ha-1) soil available nitrogen was obtained in Pigeon pea + Greengram (1:3) – Sesame after harvest of kharif and rabi, available phosphorus builds up was profound in Fodder maize – Lucerne (48.27 kg ha-1) and available K (207.63 kg ha-1) was higher in Rice –Maize cropping system after harvest. Fodder crops recorded significantly higher NPK uptake over other cropping systems.
Impact of Google Classroom as an Online Learning Delivery during COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of a Secondary School in Nigeria
Authors: Noah Oyarinde, Oluremi , Gbemisola Komolafe, Olaide
Published: October 2020

The teaching and learning process is rapidly becoming technology driven with the integration of digital learning using of online learning platforms to facilitate instructional delivery. Google classroom learning platform is one of the effective ways of enhancing student active engagement in an online learning environment. The purpose of this study is to examine the impacts of Google classroom as an online learning delivery platform in secondary school during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. A mixed method approach was used in the study. Online questionnaire on Google Classroom Attitude Scale (GCAS) was used and online Semi-Structure Interview Guide (SSIG) developed by the researcher for data collection on the students’ perceptions on Google classroom. The researcher used Statistical Package of Social Science programme to calculate and analyse arithmetic mean, standard deviation and t-test. Content analysis was used for analysis of qualitative data. The participants were 140. The results showed that Google classroom platform as an online learning delivery positively affected students' academic achievement, attitudes and their perception during the pandemic in Nigeria’s secondary school. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that education stakeholders should effectively prepare students for the use of this platform for their learning activities during the pandemic. The platform is capable of assisting both students and teachers to connect, work together, create assignments, grade students and post learning materials. Likewise, students can also ask questions about the areas they do not understand. Hence, the advantages of the platform can be brought into usage for achieving quality in the teaching and learning process at all levels of education during the pandemic.
A Review and Revisit of Newton’s Law and Gravitational Constant Derivations
Authors: Forsythe Curtis J.
Published: October 2020

This paper is a review of, and complement to, my original papers previously published in Physics Essays [1] and ViXra [2]. While the derivations and results pertinent to this review are unchanged, a possible extension of the proposed model as it relates to the derivation of G and to G-experimental is explored and presented in the attached addendum.

Herein, as proposed in my previous papers, is a theoretical model of Universal Gravitation based upon hypothetical mass/energy resonance waves, the intensities of which I propose to be casually analogous with those of electromagnetic waves. Using said model, I derive the expressed Newtonian law of gravitation from which an apparent Newtonian gravitational constant factors as a combination of other physical constants, yielding a primary G-value of  6.662936 x 10-11m3/kg s2, shown by extension to yield a secondary result that correlates well with the 2018 recommended value.  A second resultant of the proposal is a demonstration that the quantum energy states of the hydrogen atom appear related to the length of these waves, shown equal to twice the ground state orbital radius in a Bohr hydrogen atom.  Additionally determined, independently of any experimental G-value, are values for the Planck mass, length, and time.
Protection Value of Tropospheric Radio Refractivity over Nigerian Atmosphere
Authors: Adeniji M. A. , Olorode D. O.
Published: October 2020

This study enumerates the protection values derivable from refractivity variation of the tropospheric surface in Nigeria. The investigation was conducted in four cities of Nigeria using meteorological data of 2008 procured from the centre for basic space science (cbss), university of Nigeria, (unn), Nsukka. Data were captured from four different stations: Akure, Nsukka, Minna and Sokoto using vantage pro II automatic weather station. Data measurement at half hourly interval for the whole year took place at the ground level, 0 m and 100 m altitude of the troposphere. The results of the analyzed data revealed that at 100 m altitude, Nzukka and Akure experienced better protection at refractivity value of 350 unit than Sokoto and Minna at 250 unit. At the ground level (0) m, refractivity values becomes more distinct with; Nzukka, 500 unit, Akure, 370 unit while Minna and Sokoto shared the same refractivity value of 270 unit. This trend of refractivity variation showed a decreasing order of protection against exposure to damaging effects of the cosmic and out of space radiation as we move from the south towards the northern part of the country.
Estudo Prospectivo sobre Preparações Medicinais do Chá Verde
Authors: Gonçalves Mariane Dos Santos , Macêdo Ana Paula Azevedo , Izabel Janice Druzian , Couto Ricardo David , Medeiros Jairza Maria Barreto
Published: October 2020

O chá verde é considerado a segunda bebida mais popular e saudável desde a Antiguidade, perdendo apenas para a água. Dessa forma, o presente estudo tem como objetivo realizar uma prospecção tecnológica sobre as patentes que abordam as propriedades terapêuticas do chá verde para a saúde humana. As buscas foram realizadas por meio das bases de dados de patentes, Espacenet, INPI e Patentscope, em junho de 2018, com a palavra green tea e o código A61K36/82. Quanto ao número de depósitos de patentes por ano, é possível notar um aumento (mesmo com algumas oscilações) desse número ao longo dos anos. A Coreia do Sul, os EUA e a China são os países com maior número de patentes. Em relação às aplicações terapêuticas das patentes desenvolvidas do chá verde, nota-se que o tratamento dermatológico é o que mais se destaca, seguido do tratamento para excesso de peso e tratamento de doenças metabólicas.
O Reconhecimento Facial como uma das Vertentes da Inteligência Artificial (IA): um estudo de prospecção tecnológica
Authors: Conceição Valdir Silva , Nunes Edna Maria , Rocha Angela Machado
Published: October 2020

A prospecção tecnológica é um instrumento utilizado para verificar e mapear o desenvolvimento tecnológico e científico e serve para influenciar e direcionar a inovação na indústria, na sociedade e na economia de forma que os inventores não se atenham a trabalhar em produtos que já tenham sido gerados e protegidos, também muito utilizada para melhorar o que já existe em termos tecnológicos. Este trabalho revisou a literatura referente ao reconhecimento facial, tendo como base os pedidos de patentes nos escritórios. A metodologia utilizada foi a prospecção tecnológica patentária, que teve como ferramenta de pesquisa a plataforma Orbit. Neste estudo foram encontradas 17.050 patentes, e a maior parte delas estão na classificação CPC como G – Física, com 78,92%, e, desse total, 80,20% estão no CPC G06 – Cômputo, cálculo; contagem, sendo que 53,81% se relacionam ao código CPC G06K referente à identificação de dados; apresentação de dados; suporte de dados; manipulação de transporte de dados.
A Questão da Propriedade Intelectual no Centro de Incubação e Desenvolvimento Empresarial (CIDE)
Authors: Rodrigues Darlene Silveira , Sousa Hyrmir Alexandre , Oliveira Raimundo Correa de
Published: October 2020

Este trabalho tem como questão principal verificar as ações desenvolvidas pela incubadora do CIDE quanto à proteção da propriedade intelectual, portanto, pretende observar se, em meio a esse processo de incubação, as empresas estariam preocupadas em proteger esses ativos. Foi empregado como método de pesquisa o bibliográfico, documental e de campo. De acordo com a pesquisa realizada e de todos os pontos levantados, pode-se concluir que a equipe da incubadora e as das empresas residentes devem ser qualificadas para tratar dos ativos de PI desenvolvidos durante o processo de incubação, criando assim um ambiente favorável à proteção e transferência de tecnologia. Transferência de tecnologia é o meio pelo qual um conjunto de conhecimentos, habilidades e procedimentos aplicáveis aos problemas da produção são transferidos, por transação de caráter econômico ou não, de uma organização a outra, ampliando a capacidade de inovação da organização receptora.
Fármacos para COVID-19: muito além da cloroquina (testes clínicos para o coronavírus SARS-CoV-2)
Authors: Quintella Cristina M. , Silva Lucilia Abreu Cabral e , Quintella Heitor Da Mata , Silva Gustavo Henrique Ramos , Silva Sávio Carlos Rodrigues da , Uchoa Sílvia Beatriz , Mata Pedro Miguel de Assis Lopes Tavares da
Published: October 2020

Este trabalho analisa os fármacos utilizados para pacientes com COVID-19, que estão em fase de testes clínicos e que vão muito além da cloroquina. Os dados foram obtidos na Plataforma Internacional de Registro de Ensaios Clínicos da Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS). A geodistribuição mostra a concentração desses fármacos na China, e apenas 5% de parcerias transnacionais. Os testes clínicos se concentram nas fases intermediárias II e III. As classes de fármacos vão além dos antimaláricos, que têm se tornado popularmente conhecidos, compreendendo também antivirais, anti-inflamatórios, antibióticos, anticoagulantes, anticorpos, antifibróticos, antitumorais, bloqueadores de canais de cálcio, corticoides, imunomoduladores, imunossupressores, inibidores de enzimas, mucolíticos, vasoconstritores e vasodilatadores, vitaminas e sais minerais. Os antivirais mais testados são Ritonavir, Remdesivir, Lopinavir, Favipiravir e Arbidol, assim como suas associações. Diversos testes combinam antimaláricos, antivirais e imunomoduladores, sendo os mais estudados Favipiravir e Lopinavir, associados com Ritonavir, Metilprednisolona, Remdesivir, Tocilizumabe, Cloroquina e Hidroxicloroquina.
ABRO1 stabilizes the deubiquitinase BRCC3 through inhibiting its degradation mediated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP2
Authors: Zhang Wen , Tao Shou‐Song , Wang Ting , Zhang Jie , Liu Xian , Li Ya‐Ting , Chen Hui , Zhan Yi‐Qun , Yu Miao , Ge Chang‐Hui , Li Chang‐Yan , Ren Guang‐Ming , Yang Xiao‐Ming , Yin Rong‐Hua
Published: October 2020

BRCA1/BRCA2‐containing complex subunit 3 (BRCC3) is a lysine 63‐specific deubiquitinase involved in multiple biological processes, such as DNA repair and immune responses. However, the regulation mechanism for BRCC3 protein stability is still unknown. Here, we demonstrate that BRCC3 is mainly degraded through the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. The HECT‐type E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP2 modulates BRCC3 ubiquitination and degradation. ABRO1, a subunit of the BRCC36 isopeptidase complex (BRISC), competes with WWP2 to bind to BRCC3, thereby preventing WWP2‐mediated BRCC3 ubiquitination and enhancing BRCC3 stability. Functionally, we show that lentivirus‐mediated overexpression of WWP2 in murine macrophages inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation by decreasing BRCC3 protein level. This study provides the first insights into the regulation of BRCC3 stability and expands our knowledge about the physiological function of WWP2.
Comprehensive cross‐platform comparison of methods for non‐invasive EGFR mutation testing: results of the RING observational trial
Authors: Romero Atocha , Jantus‐Lewintre Eloisa , García‐Peláez Beatriz , Royuela Ana , Insa Amelia , Cruz Patricia , Collazo Ana , Pérez Altozano Javier , Vidal Oscar Juan , Diz Pilar , Cobo Manuel , Hernández Berta , Vázquez Estevez Sergio , Benítez Gretel , Guirado Maria , Majem Margarita , Bernabé Reyes , Ortega Ana Laura , Blasco Ana , Bosch‐Barrera Joaquim , Jurado Jose M. , García González Jorge , Viteri Santiago , Garcia Giron Carlos , Massutí Bartomeu , Lopez Martín Ana , Rodriguez‐Festa Alejandro , Calabuig‐Fariñas Silvia , Molina‐Vila Miguel Ángel , Provencio Mariano
Published: October 2020

Several platforms for noninvasive EGFR testing are currently used in the clinical setting with sensitivities ranging from 30% to 100%. Prospective studies evaluating agreement and sources for discordant results remain lacking. Herein, seven methodologies including two next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based methods, three high‐sensitivity PCR‐based platforms, and two FDA‐approved methods were compared using 72 plasma samples, from EGFR‐mutant non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients progressing on a first‐line tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). NGS platforms as well as high‐sensitivity PCR‐based methodologies showed excellent agreement for EGFR‐sensitizing mutations (K = 0.80–0.89) and substantial agreement for T790M testing (K = 0.77 and 0.68, respectively). Mutant allele frequencies (MAFs) obtained by different quantitative methods showed an excellent reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficients 0.86–0.98). Among other technical factors, discordant calls mostly occurred at mutant allele frequencies (MAFs) ≤ 0.5%. Agreement significantly improved when discarding samples with MAF ≤ 0.5%. EGFR mutations were detected at significantly lower MAFs in patients with brain metastases, suggesting that these patients risk for a false‐positive result. Our results support the use of liquid biopsies for noninvasive EGFR testing and highlight the need to systematically report MAFs.
An asymptotic decoupling approach for adaptive control with unmeasurable coupled dynamics
Authors: Dogan K. Merve , Yucelen Tansel , Muse Jonathan A.
Published: October 2020

While adaptive control methods have the capability to suppress the effect of system uncertainties without excessive reliance on dynamical system models, their stability can be adversely affected in the presence of coupled dynamics. Motivated by this standpoint, the contribution of this article is a decoupling approach for model reference adaptive control algorithms. The key feature of the proposed framework is that it guarantees asymptotic convergence between the trajectories of an uncertain dynamical system and a given reference model without relying on any measurements from the coupled dynamics under a tight sufficient stability condition. We also provide a generalization to address the uncertainty in the control effectiveness matrix, where the resulting sufficient stability condition in this case relies on linear matrix inequalities. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the efficacy of the presented theoretical results.
Cell‐Free Synthesis of Dopamine and Serotonin in Two Steps with Purified Enzymes
Authors: Groaz Alessandro , Galvan Silvia , Valer Luca , Rossetto Daniele , Benedetti Filippo , Guella Graziano , Toparlak Ömer Duhan , Mansy Sheref S.
Published: October 2020

The synthesis of serotonin and dopamine with purified enzymes is described. Both pathways start from an amino acid substrate and synthesize the monoamine neurotransmitter in two enzymatic steps. The enzymes human tryptophan hydroxylase isoform 2, Rattus norvegicus tyrosine hydroxylase, Chlamydia pneumoniae Cpn1046, and aromatic amino acid decarboxylase from Drosophila melanogaster are recombinantly expressed, purified, and shown to be functional in vitro. The hydroxylases efficiently convert L‐DOPA (L‐dihydroxy‐phenylalanine) and 5‐HTP (5‐hydroxytryptophan) from L‐tyrosine and L‐tryptophan, respectively. A single aromatic amino acid decarboxylase is capable of converting both hydroxylated intermediates into the final neurotransmitter. The platform described here may facilitate future efforts to generate medically useful artificial cells and nanofactories.
Charge Transport in High‐Mobility Field‐Effect Transistors Based on Inkjet Printed Random Networks of Polymer Wrapped Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Scuratti Francesca , Salazar‐Rios Jorge Mario , Luzio Alessandro , Kowalski Sebastian , Allard Sybille , Jung Stefan , Scherf Ullrich , Loi Maria Antonietta , Caironi Mario
Published: October 2020

Printed random networks of polymer‐wrapped multi‐chiral semiconducting carbon nanotubes (s‐SWCNTs) are an opportunity for mass‐manufacturable, high‐performance large‐area electronics. To meet this goal, a deeper understanding of charge‐transport mechanisms in such mixed networks is crucial. Here, charge transport in field‐effect transistors based on inkjet‐printed s‐SWCNTs networks is investigated, obtaining direct evidence for the phases probed by charge in the accumulated channel, which is critical information to rationalize the different transport properties obtained for different printing conditions. In particular, when the fraction of nanotubes with smaller bandgaps is efficiently interconnected, the sparse network provides efficient charge percolation for band‐like transport, with a charge mobility as high as 20.2 cm2V−1s−1. However, when the charges are forced by a less efficient morphology, to populate also higher bandgap nanotubes and and/or the wrapping polymer, thermally activated transport takes place and mobility drops. As a result, a trade‐off between network density and charge transport properties is identified for device current optimization, in both p‐ and n‐type regimes. These findings shed light on the fundamental aspects related to charge transport in printed s‐SWCNT mixed networks and contribute to devise appropriate strategies for the formulation of inks and processes towards cost‐effective mass production schemes of high‐performance large‐area electronics.
An Adaptable Cryptosystem Enabled by Synergies of Luminogens with Aggregation‐Induced‐Emission Character
Authors: Ji Jinzhao , Hu Danning , Yuan Jinying , Wei Yen
Published: October 2020

The strong emission in the solid state and the feasibility of introducing stimuli responsiveness make aggregation‐induced‐emission luminogens promising for optical information encryption. Yet, the vast majority of previous reports rely on subtle changes in the molecular conformation or intermolecular interactions, limiting the robustness, multiplicity, capacity, and security of the resulting cryptosystems. Herein, a versatile cryptographic system is presented based on three interconnected and orthogonal covalent transformations concerning a tetraphenylethylene–maleimide conjugate. The cryptosystem is adapted into four configurations with different functionalities by organizing the reactions and molecules in different ways. These variants either balance the accessibility and security of the encrypted information or improve the security and density in data encryption. Significantly, they allow variable decryption from a single encryption and reconstruction of the chemical nature hidden in the fluorescent pattern can only be accessed through given algorithms. These results highlight the importance of multi‐component synergies in advancing information encryption systems, which is enabled by the robustness and diversity stemming from the covalent nature of these transformations.
Full Control of Polarization in Ferroelectric Thin Films Using Growth Temperature to Modulate Defects
Authors: Weymann Christian , Lichtensteiger Céline , Fernandez‐Peña Stéphanie , Naden Aaron B. , Dedon Liv R. , Martin Lane W. , Triscone Jean‐Marc , Paruch Patrycja
Published: October 2020

Deterministic control of the intrinsic polarization state of ferroelectric thin films is essential for device applications. Independently of the well‐established role of electrostatic boundary conditions and epitaxial strain, the importance of growth temperature as a tool to stabilize a target polarization state during thin film growth is shown here. Full control of the intrinsic polarization orientation of PbTiO3 thin films is demonstrated—from monodomain up, through polydomain, to monodomain down as imaged by piezoresponse force microscopy—using changes in the film growth temperature. X‐ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy reveal a variation of c‐axis related to out‐of‐plane strain gradients. These measurements, supported by Ginzburg–Landau–Devonshire free energy calculations and Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, point to a defect mediated polarization gradient initiated by a temperature dependent effective built‐in field during growth, allowing polarization control not only under specific growth conditions, but ex‐situ, for subsequent processing and device applications.
Health conditions in retired manual labor miners and oil and gas extraction workers: National Health Interview Survey, 2007–2017
Authors: Robinson Tashina , Sussell Aaron , Yeoman Kristin , Retzer Kyla , Poplin Gerald
Published: October 2020

Background

Within the mining industrial sector, workers in the mining and oil and gas extraction (OGE) industries have demonstrated disparities in chronic health status compared with the general working population. However, we know much less about miner and OGE worker health once retired. This study separately compares chronic illnesses in retired miners and OGE workers with all other retirees.

Methods

National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) public data were analyzed for the years 2007–2017 to estimate weighted unadjusted and adjusted prevalence of selected health conditions (cancer, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory conditions, health status, and hearing loss) in retirees. Three retired worker groups (miners, OGE, and other retirees) were defined using the respondents' longest‐held industry and occupation.

Results

Higher prevalence of a number of adverse health conditions was noted in miners and OGE workers when compared with all other retirees. A significantly higher adjusted prevalence of hypertension, hearing loss, functionally limiting lung problems, and fair or poor health was seen in miners over other retirees. Retired OGE workers demonstrated a significantly higher adjusted prevalence of both hearing loss and poor health status.

Conclusions

Miners and OGE workers have higher morbidity during their working years, and this study demonstrates that poorer health appears to continue into retirement. These results suggest the need to expand occupational health and safety programs in the mining sector to improve the health of workers into retirement. Future studies that include more robust information on workplace exposures are needed to evaluate the long‐term health of retired workers.
Dynamische kinetische Racematspaltung von Alkoholen mittels enantioselektiver Silylierung ermöglicht durch zwei orthogonale Übergangsmetallkatalysatoren
Authors: Seliger Jan , Oestreich Martin
Published: October 2020

Eine nichtenzymatische dynamische kinetische Racematspaltung von acyclischen und cyclischen Benzylalkoholen wird vorgestellt. Der Ansatz verbindet rasche übergangsmetallkatalysierte Alkoholracemisierung mit enantioselektiver Cu‐H‐katalysierter Si‐O‐Kupplung von Alkoholen und Hydrosilanen. Die katalytischen Prozesse sind orthogonal und der Racemisierungskatalysator vermittelt keine unerwünschten Hintergrundreaktionen wie die Racemisierung des Silylethers und seine unselektive Bildung. Häufig verwendete Rutheniumhalbsandwichkomplexe sind ungeeignet, aber ein bifunktionaler Rutheniumpincerkomplex erfüllt diesen Zweck vollkommen. Auf diese Weise wird die enantioselektive Silylierung von racemischen Alkoholgemischen in hohen Ausbeuten und mit guten Enantioselektivitäten erreicht.
Inhibiting Solvent Co‐Intercalation in a Graphite Anode by a Localized High‐Concentration Electrolyte in Fast‐Charging Batteries
Authors: Jiang Li‐Li , Yan Chong , Yao Yu‐Xing , Cai Wenlong , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: October 2020

Lithium‐ion batteries with routine carbonate electrolytes cannot exhibit satisfactory fast‐charging performance and lithium plating is widely observed at low temperatures. Herein we demonstrate that a localized high‐concentration electrolyte consisting of 1.5 M lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide in dimethoxyethane with bis(2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl) ether as the diluent, enables fast‐charging of working batteries. A uniform and robust solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) can be achieved on graphite surface through the preferential decomposition of anions. The established SEI can significantly inhibit ether solvent co‐intercalation into graphite and achieve highly reversible Li+ intercalation/de‐intercalation. The graphite | Li cells exhibit fast‐charging potential (340 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and 220 mAh g−1 at 4 C), excellent cycling stability (ca. 85.5 % initial capacity retention for 200 cycles at 4 C), and impressive low‐temperature performance.
Graphdiyne@Janus Magnetite for Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Fang Yan , Xue Yurui , Hui Lan , Yu Huidi , Li Yuliang
Published: October 2020

A highly active graphdiyne heterojunction with highly efficient photocatalysis is designed and fabricated. This catalyst demonstrates transformative properties on photocatalysis for ammonia synthesis. Such excellent properties are reigned from graphdiyne incorporating Fe site‐specific magnetite resulting in a valence state transition within the catalyst. Our results show the strong advantages of graphdiyne in effectively regulating magnetite activity and coordination environments and also indicate that magnetite can selectively form two different valence tetrahedral coordination Fe and octahedral coordination Fe. The catalysts show remarkable catalytic performance for ammonia synthesis by photocatalysis, indicating transformative photocatalytic activity with an ammonia yield (Y
) of unprecedented level of 1762.35±153.71 μmol h−1 gcat.−1 (the highest Y
could reach up to 1916.06 μmol h−1 gcat.−1). This work makes full use of the structural and property features of graphdiyne and opens up a new direction for photocatalysis in the field of catalysis.
Adsorption Site Selective Occupation Strategy within a Metal–Organic Framework for Highly Efficient Sieving Acetylene from Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Yang Lingzhi , Yan Liting , Wang Ying , Liu Zhi , He Jiangxiu , Fu Qiuju , Liu Dandan , Gu Xin , Dai Pengcheng , Li Liangjun , Zhao Xuebo
Published: October 2020

The separation of acetylene and carbon dioxide is an essential but challenging process owing to the similar molecular sizes and physical properties of the two gas molecules. Notably, these molecules usually exhibit different orientations in the pore channel. We report an adsorption site selective occupation strategy by taking advantage of differences in orientation to sieve the C2H2 from CO2 in a judiciously designed amine‐functionalized metal–organic framework, termed CPL‐1‐NH2. In this material, the incorporation of amino groups not only occupies the adsorption sites of CO2 molecules and shields the interaction of uncoordinated oxygen atom and CO2 molecules resulting in a negligible adsorption amount and a decrease in enthalpy of adsorption but also strengthened the binding affinity toward C2H2 molecules. This material thus shows an extremely high amount of C2H2 at low pressure and a remarkably high C2H2/CO2 IAST selectivity (119) at 1 bar and 298 K.
Flame front propagation and sinter strength properties of permeable sintering bed prepared via enhanced granulation with hydrated lime
Authors: Zhou Mingxi , Zhou Hao
Published: October 2020

This paper is focused on investigating the influences of enhanced granulation with hydrated lime on the propagation of flame front and strength properties of the produced sinter in iron ore sintering. Pilot‐scale sinter pot experiments were performed at three hydrated lime levels, and the porous structures of sinter were reconstructed by high resolution X‐ray tomography. When hydrated lime increased from 0% to 2%, more permeable green bed with enlarged granule mean size and narrowed granule size distribution could be obtained, and sinter productivity increased from 37.3 to 40.7 t/m2/d while tumbler index of sinter decreased from 62.7% to 55.0%. Both the bed temperature and pressure profiles verified that hydrated lime addition fasten sintering by reduction of heat accumulation and acceleration of flame front speed in sintering bed. The three‐dimensional stress analysis based on the actual microstructures showed that more irregular sinter particles with higher porosity are obtained with higher hydrated lime due to the insufficient melt formation and coalescence during sintering. Sinter with 2% hydrated lime was much more compliant under the fixed compression, exhibiting larger potential to be deformed in locations including bridges with the small cross sections and notches with the small fillet radius.
Landing, consumption, and DNA barcoding of commercial seabream (Perciformes: Sparidae) in Kuwait
Authors: Al‐Zaidan Amani S.Y. , Akbar Abrar , Bahbahani Hussain , Al‐Mohanna Salim Y. , Kolattukudy Biju , Balakrishna Varun
Published: October 2020

To our knowledge, this is the first inclusive assessment of the status of Sparidae fisheries in the territorial waters of Kuwait, integrating information on catch trends, consumer preferences, recreational fishing behaviour, and molecular based identification of fish species by DNA barcoding

Fisheries landing data were obtained from the official fisheries bulletin released by the Kuwait Central Statistical Bureau. Surveys were conducted to assess consumer preferences on seabream species, landed seabream species, and the behaviour of recreational anglers towards seabream species. DNA barcodes were generated to authenticate commercial seabream using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COXI) gene and then compared with GenBank sequence entries; these sequences were then used to construct a neighbour‐joining (NJ) phylogenetic tree.

Yellowfin seabream Acanthopagrus latus was the prime and most favoured commercial seabream species (45%), followed by Sparidentex hasta, which was the top‐rated secondary, unassessed seabream species. Approximately 54% of households conduct recreational fishing more than twice a month, and most (77%) primarily target S. hasta and Ac. latus. Consumer demand for secondary seabreams, which were not assessed and are listed in the bulletin under the category ‘others’, was evident.

The NJ phylogenetic tree revealed that Arabian Gulf seabreams, including those of Kuwait, are genetically different from their counterparts inhabiting neighbouring waters.

The data presented here highlight the urgency to modify the existing fisheries list using accurate identification tools, such as DNA barcoding, for the sustainable and conservation‐oriented management of local fisheries, which are in decline.
CIM6P/IGF‐2 Receptor Ligands Reverse Deficits in Angelman Syndrome Model Mice
Authors: Cruz Emmanuel , Descalzi Giannina , Steinmetz Adam , Scharfman Helen E. , Katzman Aaron , Alberini Cristina M.
Published: October 2020

Angelman syndrome (AS), a genetic disorder that primarily affects the nervous system, is characterized by delayed development, intellectual disability, severe speech impairment, and problems with movement and balance (ataxia). Most affected children also have recurrent seizures (epilepsy). No existing therapies are capable of comprehensively treating the deficits in AS; hence, there is an urgent need to identify new treatments. Here we show that insulin‐like growth factor 2 (IGF‐2) and mannose‐6‐phosphate (M6P), ligands of two independent binding sites of the cation‐independent M6P/IGF‐2 receptor (CIM6P/IGF‐2R), reverse most major deficits of AS modeled in mice. Subcutaneous injection of IGF‐2 or M6P in mice modeling AS restored cognitive impairments as assessed by measurements of contextual and recognition memories, motor deficits assessed by rotarod and hindlimb clasping, and working memory/flexibility measured by Y‐maze. IGF‐2 also corrected deficits in marble burying and significantly attenuated acoustically induced seizures. An observational battery of tests confirmed that neither ligand changed basic functions including physical characteristics, general behavioral responses, and sensory reflexes, indicating that they are relatively safe. Our data provide strong preclinical evidence that targeting CIM6P/IGF‐2R is a promising approach for developing novel therapeutics for AS.

Lay Summary

There is no effective treatment for the neurodevelopmental disorder Angelman syndrome (AS). Using a validated AS mouse model, the Ube3am−/p+, in this study we show that systemic administration of ligands of the cation independent mannose‐6‐phosphate receptor, also known as insulin‐like growth factor 2 receptor (CIM6P/IGF‐2R) reverses cognitive impairment, motor deficits, as well as seizures associated with AS. Thus, ligands that activate the CIM6P/IGF‐2R may represent novel, potential therapeutic targets for AS.
Health risks from protozoa in potable reuse: Implications of Florida's data set
Authors: MacNevin David , Zornes Greta
Published: October 2020

Over the past two decades, 292 Florida water reclamation facilities (WRFs) have collected reclaimed water protozoa data. This paperexamines the data set, which includes more than 1,800 observations of each protozoan, including Cryptosporidium and Giardia. This study considers the occurrence of protozoa across WRFs and the potential implications for potable reuse. Quantitative microbial risk assessment was conducted for reclaimed waters from 20 WRFs to assess the necessary log reduction credit to treat water from each facility for Cryptosporidium and Giardia. These results are compared with advanced treatment trains based on either reverse osmosis or ozone with biologically active filtration.
An Excel VBA‐based educational module for bed roughness predictors
Authors: Niazkar Majid
Published: October 2020

Estimation of flow resistance coefficients plays an inevitable role in open‐channel flows in hydraulic modeling and water resources engineering. Despite many equations and methods recommended for estimating roughness coefficients, only two standard resistance equations (original Manning's and Keulegan's equations) have been widely taught and utilized in practice. There can be various reasons for not using new bed roughness predictors (BRPs), one of which is the absence of teaching BRPs. A rigorous analysis of available BRPs for estimating grain and form roughness coefficients delineates that most of them are comprised of a scheme rather than a single equation. Also, each BRP is tailored to solve a distinct type of problem; however, a proper definition of a problem statement helps shedding light on this application. This study presents an Excel VBA‐based educational estimator to address the gap. For this purpose, the problem statement is first revisited to accomplish a better understanding in light of proper problem classification. On the basis of different groups of input and output data, each BRP is implemented into an Excel spreadsheet and VBA codes are presented for BRPs incorporating both grain and form roughness. This computer application can help students in open‐channel engineering courses not only to become familiar with modified BRPs but also to acknowledge the merit of the Excel spreadsheet for estimating flow resistance coefficients. Finally, as the VBA codes are presented in detail, they can be modified by users in accordance with their priorities for both educational and practical purposes.
Cachexia, dietetic consultation, and survival in patients with pancreatic and periampullary cancer: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Latenstein Anouk E. J. , Dijksterhuis Willemieke P. M. , Mackay Tara M. , Beijer Sandra , van Eijck Casper H. J. , de Hingh Ignace H. J. T. , Molenaar I. Quintus , van Oijen Martijn G. H. , van Santvoort Hjalmar C. , de van der Schueren Marian A. E. , de Vos‐Geelen Judith , de Vries Jeanne H. M. , Wilmink Johanna W. , Besselink Marc G. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M. ,   Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group
Published: October 2020

It is unclear to what extent patients with pancreatic cancer have cachexia and had a dietetic consult for nutritional support. The aim was to assess the prevalence of cachexia, dietitian consultation, and overall survival in these patients. This prospective multicenter cohort study included patients with pancreatic cancer, who participated in the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Project and completed patient reported outcome measures (2015–2018). Additional data were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Cachexia was defined as self‐reported >5% body weight loss, or >2% in patients with a BMI <20 kg/m2over the past half year. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to analyze overall survival. In total, 202 patients were included from 18 centers. Cachexia was present in 144 patients (71%) and 81 of those patients (56%) had dietetic consultation. Cachexia was present in 63% of 94 patients who underwent surgery, 77% of 70 patients who received palliative chemotherapy and 82% of 38 patients who had best supportive care. Dietitian consultation was reported in 53%, 52%, and 71%, respectively. Median overall survival did not differ between patients with and without cachexia, but decreased in those with severe weight loss (12 months (IQR 7–20) vs. 16 months (IQR 8–31), p = 0.02), as compared to those with <10% weight loss during the past half year. Two‐thirds of patients with pancreatic cancer present with cachexia of which nearly half had no dietetic consultation. Survival was comparable in patients with and without cachexia, but decreased in patients with more severe weight loss.
Similar but Still Different: Which Amino Acid Residues Are Responsible for Varying Activities in Type‐III Copper Enzymes?
Authors: Kampatsikas Ioannis , Rompel Annette
Published: October 2020

Type‐III copper enzymes like polyphenol oxidases (PPOs) are ubiquitous among organisms and play a significant role in the formation of pigments. PPOs comprise different enzyme groups, including tyrosinases (TYRs) and catechol oxidases (COs). TYRs catalyze the o‐hydroxylation of monophenols and the oxidation of o‐diphenols to the corresponding o‐quinones (EC 1.14.18.1). In contrast, COs only catalyze the oxidation of o‐diphenols to the corresponding o‐quinones (EC 1.10.3.1). To date (August 2020), 102 PDB entries encompassing 18 different proteins from 16 organisms and several mutants have been reported, identifying key residues for tyrosinase activity. The structural similarity between TYRs and COs, especially within and around the active center, complicates the elucidation of their modes of action on a structural basis. However, mutagenesis studies illuminate residues that influence the two activities and show that crystallography on its own cannot elucidate the enzymatic activity mode. Several amino acid residues around the dicopper active center have been proposed to play an essential role in the two different activities. Herein, we critically review the role of all residues identified so far that putatively affect the two activities of PPOs.
Immune‐mediated drug‐induced liver injury secondary to Omeprazole: A case report
Authors: Seife Hassen Sara , Ata Fateen , Bint I Bilal Ammara , Salih Ali Mohamed , Petkar Mahir , Awad Elzouki Abdelnaser Y. , Zahid Muhammad
Published: October 2020

Omeprazole is a rare cause of DILI with autoimmune hepatitis features and should be considered when seeing patients with acute liver injury. The causative drug should be promptly identified and discontinued to avoid any permanent liver damage.
Epidural analgesia for acute ischemic pain after intra‐arterial zolpidem injection in opioid‐addicted patient—A case report
Authors: Krajina Kmoniček Irena , Kvolik Slavica , Pinotić Kresimir , Ištvanić Tomislav , Mraovic Boris , Marjanovic Ksenija
Published: October 2020

A patient taking opioid maintenance therapy unintentionally injected dissolved zolpidem pills into the femoral artery and suffered acute limb ischemia. High amounts of opioids with supplemental therapies were inefficient for intractable ischemic pain, suggesting the presence of opioid‐induced hyperalgesia (OIH). Epidural analgesia efficiently relieved pain and symptoms of OIH.
Stereoselectivity Enhancement During the Generation of Three Contiguous Stereocenters in Tetrahydrothiophenes
Authors: Mała Żaneta A. , Janicki Mikołaj J. , Niedźwiecka Natalia H. , Góra Robert W. , Konieczny Krzysztof A. , Kowalczyk Rafał
Published: October 2020

Application of carefully designed Cinchona alkaloid based squaramides resulted in the formation of three contiguous stereocenters in enantio‐ and diastereoselective Sulfa‐Michael/intramolecular aldol reactions cascade. Increase of the temperature to 333 K in reaction of mercaptoacetic aldehyde and various en‐ynones allowed the rise of the reaction rate while not affecting the enantioselectivity nor diastereoselectivity. Stereoselectivity was dependent on the structure of the hydrogen‐bonding unit, thus revealing the importance of weak interactions in the formation of the multifunctional tetrahydrothiophenes. Kohn‐Sham Density Functional Theory results suggest that a perfect fit of the electrophile and squaramide via tailored (+)N−H hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking interactions were the main factors of the chirality transfer.
Plasma‐Induced Defects Enhance the Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Activity of MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2 for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Cabrero‐Antonino María , Albero Josep , García‐Vallés Cristina , Álvaro Mercedes , Navalón Sergio , García Hermenegildo
Published: October 2020

Defect engineering in metal‐organic frameworks is commonly performed by using thermal or chemical treatments. Herein we report that oxygen plasma treatment generates structural defects on MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2, leading to an increase in its photocatalytic activity. Characterization data indicate that plasma‐treated materials retain most of their initial crystallinity, while exhibiting somewhat lower surface area and pore volume. XPS and FT‐IR spectroscopy reveal that oxygen plasma induces MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2 partial terephthalate decarboxylation and an increase in the Ti‐OH population. Thermogravimetric analyses confirm the generation of structural defects by oxygen plasma and allowed an estimation of the resulting experimental formula of the treated MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2 solids. SEM analyses show that oxygen plasma treatment of MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2 gradually decreases its particle size. Importantly, diffuse reflectance UV/Vis spectroscopy and valence band measurements demonstrate that oxygen plasma treatment alters the MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2 band gap and, more significantly, the alignment of highest occupied and lowest unoccupied crystal orbitals. An optimal oxygen plasma treatment to achieve the highest efficiency in water splitting with or without methanol as sacrificial electron donor under UV/Vis or simulated sunlight was determined. The optimized plasma‐treated MIL‐125(Ti)‐NH2 photocatalyst acts as a truly heterogeneous photocatalyst and retains most of its initial photoactivity and crystallinity upon reuse.
Chemical‐Synthesis‐Based Approach to Glycoprotein Functions in the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Ito Yukishige , Kajihara Yasuhiro , Takeda Yoichi
Published: October 2020

The introduction of Asn‐linked glycans to nascent polypeptides occurs in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum of eukaryotic cells. After the removal of specific sugar residues, glycoproteins acquire signals in the glycoprotein quality control (GPQC) system and enter the folding cycle composed of lectin‐chaperones calnexin (CNX) and calreticulin (CRT), glucosidase II (G‐II), and UDP‐Glc:glycoprotein glucosyltransferase (UGGT). G‐II initiates glycoproteins’ entry and exit from the cycle, and UGGT serves as the “folding sensor”. This account summarizes our effort to analyze the properties of enzymes and lectins that play important roles in GPQC, especially those involved in the CNX/CRT cycle. To commence our study, general methods for the synthesis of high‐mannose‐type glycans and glycoproteins were established. Based on these, various substrates to analyze components of the GPQC were created, and properties of CRT, G‐II, and UGGT have been clarified.