bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of soil microbial community to plant composition changes in broad-leaved forests of the karst area in Mid-Subtropical China
Authors: Liu Liling , Zhu Ninghua , Zhou Guangyi , Dang Peng , Yang Xiaowei , Qiu Liqiong , Huang Muyi , Gong Yingyun , Zhao Suya , Chen Jie
Published: March 2022

The rapid growth and expansion ofCryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex L. f.) D. Don in karst area strongly affects plant composition of native deciduous broad-leaved forest, which seriously threat ecosystem function and service. Given the importance of soil microorganisms in regulating nutrients cycling and plant species coexistence, understanding soil microbial attributes and their relationships with soil and vegetation features in forests harboring different C. japonica abundance will help understanding the drivers of ecosystem function changes. Here we examined the diversity and composition of soil bacterial and fungal communities and their correlations with plant diversity as well as soil physicochemical properties in karst broad-leaved forests with different relative abundances of C. japonica (i.e., a high, moderate, low and no proportion level with a stem density of 1,487, 538, 156 and 0 plant/hm2, respectively) in Mid-Subtropical China. We found that soil pH decreased while soil water content (SWC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) and total potassium (TK) tended to increase with the increase in C. japonica abundance. In contrast, soil available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP) and available potassium (AK) content declined by 26.1%∼49.3% under the high level of C. japonica abundance. A gradual decrease in relative abundance of Acidobacteria and Chloroflexi while a pronounced increase in relative abundance of Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were observed with increase of C. japonica abundance. Alternations in bacterial composition were closely related to changes in AP and AK, while the change of fungal structure was mainly related to SWC, soil organic carbon (SOC) and pH, indicating that bacterial community was sensitive to declines in soil available nutrients and fungal structure was sensitive to changes in soil physicochemical properties (i.e., pH and SWC) and organic carbon resource. Understory plants had the highest α-diversity in forest containing moderate abundance of C. japonica, which might be related to the high bacterial diversity. Our findings suggest conservation of soil bacterial and fungal taxa that are responsible for nutrients availability and carbon sequestration is of great significance for improving the resistance of natural deciduous broad-leaved forests to the rapid spread of C. japonica in karst areas. Moreover, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, Ascomycota and Basidiomycota are potential indicators for soil properties changes, which should be taken into consideration in karst forest managements.
Estratégias de conservação ambiental
Authors: Araújo Adriano Firmino Valdevino de , Cavalcanti Gabriella da Silva
Published: March 2022

Diante da crescente pressão social por uma postura ambientalmente sustentável, empresas e esta-belecimentos vêm incorporando em suas estratégias de mercado a adoção de ações e práticas vol-tadas para a conservação ambiental. Neste contexto, torna-se necessária alguma sinalização que permita aos consumidores diferenciar os produtos resultantes de processos ambientalmente sus-tentáveis de seus substitutos, o que é feito por meio da certificação. O objetivo desse estudo é ana-lisar a disposição a pagar a mais de consumidores por serviços oferecidos em hotéis certificados ambientalmente em relação aos hotéis não certificados. Quase a totalidadedos entrevistados de-clararam que estavam mais dispostos a escolher um hotel certificado ambientalmente em detri-mento a um hotel sem certificação e mais da metade aceitaram, de fato, pagar a mais por isso. Os resultados sugerem que o conjunto de variáveis que afetam a decisão de pagar a mais ou não é distinto do conjunto de variáveis que afetam a decisão relativa ao valor que será pago, embora haja uma intersecção entre esses dois conjuntos. O estudo encontrou uma disposição média a pagar a mais por dia de permanência em hotéis com certificação ambiental no valor de R$ 66,18.
Chest Multi Detector Computed Tomography Findings among Patients with H1N1 Influenza A Infection: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Munivenkatappa Krishna Kumar , Vairaperumal Tamil Arasan , Kumaran R
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The first cases of H1N1 Influenza A occurred in Mexico in 2009, thereafter the infection rapidly spread worldwide. Seasonal epidemics and unpredictable pandemics had been declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO), since then. Aim: To describe the Thoracic Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT) findings in moderate to severely ill, H1N1 patients during epidemic spread. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was done in which evaluation of 155 hospitalised patients confirmed to have H1N1 Influenza A epidemic infection between October 2018-December 2018, through the radiologic and clinical aspects. About 56 moderate to severely ill patients, who failed to improve with through treatment, underwent thoracic cross-sectional MDCT and their scans available on picture archiving and communication system (PACS) were assessed and radiological findings were evaluated with respect to clinical condition. Descriptive statistics were used for representation of data. Results: About 56 moderate to severely ill H1N1 patients who underwent chest MDCT, consisted of 30 males and 26 females ranging in age from 20 to 86 years with median age of 55.19 years. Ground glass opacities was found in 34 (60.71%) patients, Consolidation in 33 (58.93%) patients, combined Ground glass pattern and Consolidation in 18 (32.14%) patients and Acinar nodules in 21 (37.50%) patients. Combined Peripheral & Central distribution of lesions was found in 47 (83.92%) patients and central lesions in 6 (10.71%) patients. The lesions were multifocal in 51 (91.07%) patients and diffuse in 25 (44.64 %) patients. Lesions seen in bilateral all lobes in 25 (44.6%) patients and unilateral in 7 (12.5%) patients. Small mediastinal Lymphnodes were detected in 42 (75%) patients, pleural effusion was associated in 18 (32.14%) patients and pericardial effusion in 4 (7.14%) patients. In nonvulnerable group, 53 (94.6%) patients showed full recovery as in those patients therapy was started earlier while in vulnerable group 3 (5.35%) died immediately after infection. Conclusion: Unilateral or bilateral ground-glass opacities may or may not be linked with focal or multifocal areas of consolidation in the peribronchovascular and subpleural distribution that resembled the appearance of organising pneumonia is the main finding which was observed.
A Retrospective Study on Anatomical Variants of the Uncinate Process: What the Radiologist Needs to Inform the Surgeon?
Authors: Sharma Sonica
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Uncinate Process (UP) is a crucial component of the anterior Osteomeatal Complex (OMC), which is a key area for the drainage and ventilation of the anterior group of paranasal sinuses. Aim: To determine the prevalence of various anatomic variants of the UP, like its varying superior attachment to vital structures like the lamina papyracea, skull base or the middle turbinate, angulation (medial or lateral), pneumatisation (uncinate bulla) and atelectatic UP using Computed Tomography (CT) images of the paranasal sinuses. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Radiodiagnosis department of a Tertiary care hospital from December 2019 through January 2020, to determine the prevalence of various anatomic variants of the UP. CT scans of the paranasal sinuses of 200 patients (males 102; females 98) in the age group of 17-70 years, were analysed in coronal view of bone window and the superior attachments of UP were classified based on the Stammberger and Hawke classification. Results: Of the total 200 images (400 sides), type I attachment to the Lamina Papyracea (LP) was most frequent 64.5% in 258 number of cases. Least common variation was the Type II attachment to the skull base 5% in 20 cases. UP pneumatisation (uncinate bulla) was less commonly seen variation in 25 cases. Normal vertical orientation of the UP was seen in 34 cases, Only two cases each of horizontal lateral and medial angulation and in both cases findings were unilateral. Conclusion: In order to determine the prevalence of various anatomic variation of the UP, especially its various superior attachments, the study examines the CT images of 200 patients and found that the variations in superior attachment found to be more frequent than the other variations and the commonest was the Type I, attachment to the LP directly or indirectly by attaching to the Agger Nasi Cells (ANC).
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Patients with Goiter in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: O. Ajibare Adeola , Adeyemo Adekunle , O. Dada Akinola , Y. Fagbemiro Emmanuel , Ogunyemi Suraj A. , Adebayo Rasaaq A. , A. Kolawole Babatope , O. Balogun Michael , Odeyemi Ayoola S. , O. Adekoya Adebowale
Published: March 2022

Background: Goiter is endemic in iodine deficient areas of the world including Nigeria. Cardiovascular disorder is a cause of morbidity in patients with thyroid diseases. These cardiovascular disorders are more likely to be found in patients with hypothyroid or hyperthyroid goiter. Large euthyroid goiter can potentially compromise respiration with potentials for secondary cardiac changes. Despite these, echocardiography is not a routine assessment of these patients. This study set out to determine the baseline cardiac function in a cohort of patients with endemic goiter using echocardiography.

Materials and Methods: A comparative study of One hundred goiter patients presenting consecutively at the out-patient clinic of a tertiary hospital and 50 age and gender matched healthy non-goitrous control subjects. They all had thyroid function tests, cardiovascular evaluation and echocardiography done.

Results: The mean ages of the goiter and the control groups were 46.92 + 13.85 and 46.58 + 11.62 years respectively (P=0.8510). The goiter population comprised 12 males and 88 females while the control group had 6 males and 44 females. 47% of the goiter subjects were hyperthyroid, while 44% and 9% were euthyroid and hypothyroid respectively. All the control subjects were euthyroid.

Systolic and diastolic dysfunction were seen in 18% and 24% of the goiter group respectively, compared to 2% and 5% of the control group (P<0.0001). Hyperthyroid and hypothyroid subgroups had higher rates of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Systolic dysfunction was seen in 6.4%, 4.5% and 100% of the hyperthyroid, euthyroid and hypothyroid subgroups respectively while diastolic dysfunction was seen in 23.4%, 9.2 and 100% of the subgroups. Prevalence of systolic and diastolic dysfunction in the euthyroid and control subjects were 4.5% vs 2% (P=0.1228) and 9.2% vs 5% (P=0.2018).

Conclusion: This study concluded that cardiac dysfunction is common in both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid goiter population while the prevalence of cardiac dysfunction in the euthyroid population is not influenced by the presence of goiter. This may suggest that routine echocardiography is unnecessary in patient with euthyroid goiter.
Evaluation of Soil Wetting Patterns in Clay Loam Soil under Drip Irrigation
Authors: Ghosh Uddipta , Banerjee Debargha , Das Debasish , Biswas Ranajit Kumar , Islam Saiful , Deb Sonali , Biswas Sumisha , Oraon Sony , Karmakar Susrita , Paul Pankaj
Published: March 2022

Maximum agricultural water use efficiency is important owing to decrease of availability of water for agricultural field. Drip irrigation is considered so far as the most efficient irrigation systems. Knowledge of dimension of the soil wetted volume is one of the main factors in determining the spacing of drippers. It is important in the design and management of the irrigation system. The present study was conducted at the Instructional Farm, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Moahanpur, Nadia, West Bengal to examine the vertical (Z) and horizontal (W) water front advance within the soil profile at the dripper in a clay loam soil. Same volume of water (50 litre) was applied at the rate of 2.3 and 4.9 l/h at each irrigation. By observing the soil on the tips of the auger, the depth of wetting was determined and noted it down for different points on the line of the wetted area. It was found that there is little variation in the theoretical width and depth with the actual width and depth of wetting of the soil in case of 4.9 lph discharge rate. For the given discharge rate, the inaccuracy was less for the wetted depth than the wetted diameter. In the instance of the 2.3 lph discharge rate, however, there was a lot more fluctuation. This variation might be resulted from some experimental errors due to surrounding disturbances and climatic variation.
Management of COVID-19 Infection in a Context of Countries with Limited Resources: Case of the University Hospital Center of Renaissance (UHCR) in N’Djamena, Chad
Authors: Ali Bolti Mahamat , Alio Hamit Mahamat , Abassi Adamou , Traoré Sory , Djarma Oumaima , Fissou Henry , Mad-Toingue Joseph , Constant Assi , Moussa Ali Mahamat
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The aim of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics of patients admitted for Covid-19 in the department of Covid-19 of the University Hospital Center of Renaissance (UHCR) of N’Djamena in Chad. The pandemic of the sickness of Covid-19 constitutes a real public health problem in the world since its appearance in December 2019.

Materials and Methods: This was an observational, transversal and descriptive study carried out from 19 March 2020 to 19 November 2021. All patients diagnosed with Covid-19, confirmed at least either by RT-PCR or chest computed tomography (CT) were included. The healing was defined through the disappearance of clinical signs and two negative RT-PCRs at 72 hours intervals.

Results: Our study included 825 patients of which 613 (74.34%) men (sex ratio 2.9). Age Medium for patients was 50 ± 4 years with extreme ranging from 19 to 84 years old. Six hundred and thirty-three (76.70%) patients came directly from their residences. Respectively 82 and 71 were transferred from the provincial hospital of Farcha (9.9%) and from a private health structure (8.7%). Three hundred and thirteen patients had at least a comorbidity especially arterial hypertension (n = 173; 21%); the diabetes (n = 156; 19.7%); chronic renal failure (n = 28; 3.5%); heart disease (n =27; 3.3%) and obesity (n= 14; 1.6%), HIV infection (n = 9; 1.09%). five hundred and seventy-two (61.12%) patients performed the CT and all the RT-PCR. Four hundred and ninety-two patients (59.60%) presented severe forms of the disease, 160 (19.40%) were critical and 124 (15.10%) were moderates. The hospital lethality was 16.24% (n = 134). The treatment consisted in the administration of Hydroxychloroquine-Azythromycin in 99.4% of cases (n = 813) and by covid-organics in 0.6% of cases (n = 5).

Conclusion: The infected patients with Covid-19 were admitted with the advance stage of the disease. Lethality was associate with the presence of comorbidities. The sensitization of the population on the importance of vaccination, barrier measures and recourse to care are necessary.
Monitoring and Evaluation of The Reliability of Distribution Network with Distributed Generation
Authors: EMECHETA Stella Nkiruka , NWAJUONYE Raymond Onyeka , OKONKWO George Chibuzor
Published: March 2022

With the growing population of Ezenei 11KV feeder radiating from the Asaba mains Injection Substation and overstretched distribution network, monitoring and evaluation of the reliability and improvement of distribution network feeder is essential. Failure of some of the equipment at supply restoration is frequent due to weakness of some of the line conductors and long usage of the equipment. In this research work, simulation, analysis and evaluation of the reliability and improvement of Ezenei 11kV feeder was investigated. Load data used were collected from Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Asaba between February and April 2018 and this was used to model the sixty – seven (67) buses on the network using Electrical Transient and Analysis Program (ETAP). Load flow analysis was carried out on the modelled network using Newton – Raphson (N-R) iteration method to determine the various bus power (active and reactive) and voltage magnitude using the base and distributed generation injected power. Reliability study was carried out on the network and result showed that the load point indices were increasing as distance of load point increased from feeder. The Seventeen load buses which was Okeke bus to Starcom bus forms the location A. and St. Rebecca bus to Chief Ofili bus forms location B. while Odogu bus to Old Deputy Govt. bus forms location, Iyabi bus to MTN III bus forms location D. Okeke and Jimok water which are the closest load buses to the feeder have an Average Interruption Rate (f/yr) and Annual Output Interruption Rate (hr/yr) of 8.9264f/yr, 417.1507hr/yr while Victor Odogu and Auditor General has an Average Interruption Rate (f/yr) and Annual Output Interruption Rate (hr/yr) of 8.9318f/yr, 417.2857hr/yr and 8.9264 f/yr, 417.1507hr/yr. It was also observed that Chief Osita, Anacho and Estate buses had the highest Average Interruption Rate (f/yr) and Annual Output Interruption Rate (hr/yr).
Influence of Child Protection Benchmark on Management Outcomes in Child Friendly Schools of Makueni County, Kenya
Authors: Musau Nicholas , Thinguri Ruth , Githui Kimamo
Published: March 2022

The influence of child protection as a child-friendly school benchmark on the management outcome in public primary schools has been of interest. Schools in Makueni County (Kenya) have had their share of reported cases of child insecurity with children having been physically violated within the school community, sometimes with corporal punishment cases by teachers to an alarming level. The sought to answer the question: what is the influence level of the child protection internal school benchmark on the management outcome in Child Friendly Schools (CFS) of Makueni County? To answer the question, a mixed-method triangulation design was applied with a convergent model that inculcates regression and correlation models. The study findings establish that schools partially put in place and managed child protection measures as an important benchmark to strengthen management outcomes in CFS. Results from the study determined that there were established rules for visitors to identify themselves (82.1%), rules not to allow people under the influence of illicit drugs at school (85.5%), rules against bullying and corporal punishment (91.8%), not to allow pits in the school compound (65.5%), and buildings at school to be earthquake resistant (27.9%). School management used UNICEF’s child-friendly school child protection model as a benchmark on which to provide protection as a child right, thus making the schools more child-friendly.
Assessment of the Association between Clinical Examination and Investigations with Outcome in Cases of Abdominal Malignancy
Authors: Rashmi S. , Jajoo S. N.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Abdominal malignancy is a serious problem in the western world which is presently rising in India due to change in lifestyle. The etiopathogenesis are hereditary, environmental and lifestyle factors. The signs and symptoms vary depending upon the type and stage of cancer. Routine investigations, tumor markers, radiology, endoscopy and biopsy examine patients. There have been advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and palliation but still surgery is curative.

Methods: This is a prospective observational study including all cases of abdominal malignancy presenting to Surgery OPD. The sample size is 46 patients.

Results: Mean age of presentation is 54.63 years. Preoperative abnormal parameters such as CEA, CA 19-9, preoperative biopsy, lymph nodal metastasis on CT and liver metastasis on CT were correlated with outcome which were found to be significant. Operative findings such as site, area, spread outside serosa, lymph nodal metastasis, and liver metastasis were correlated with same in the radio-pathological findings and were found to be significant. Outcome was assessed. Reasons for delay in presentation, diagnosis and treatment were assessed. 

Conclusion: Maximum number of patients were in the age group of 41-60 years. There was a definite difference in outcome with reference to preoperative abnormal parameters. There was comparative variation of operative and radio-pathological findings. Study subjects death were due to malignancy as most of them presented to the hospital at advanced stages of malignancy and others dropped out of chemotherapy or radiotherapy and those who took proper treatment had good outcome.
A Focus on Fabrication, Characterization, Stability, Skin Targeting, Patent, Safety and Toxicity of Nanostructured Lipid Carrier
Authors: Sahoo Laxmidhar , Patro Chandra Sekhar , Jena Goutam Kumar , Patro Ch. Niranjan , Satapathy Sukanta
Published: March 2022

Background: The advanced development of lipid nanocarrier contributes a lot to the domain of therapeutic effectiveness of the drug. However the parameter such as drug loading, drug release, stability, and targeting influence much more towards the limitation of many lipid nanocarriers. The Nanostructured lipid carrier, the second generation of lipid carrier has more promising advantages over others and have tremendous targeting ability to skin for drug administration.

Objective: The present review paper focus to understand the different fabrication technique, impact of lipid and surfactant on formulation effectiveness, characterization of formulation, and Crystalinity concept of lipid which have an impact on stability & drug loading. Focus on a parameter such as Transepidermal water loss , skin occlusion, and hydration which determine the ability of the carrier to target the skin. Hence the effectiveness of the drug improved. This review also focused on patents based on Nanostructured lipid carriers.

Method of preparation: many methods have been adopted to prepare Nanostructured lipid carriers and among all High-pressure homogenization method is considered as best one.

Conclusion: Because of numerous advantages of this carrier system such as biocompatibility of lipid, high drug encapsulation, stability over others, it is considered as a major focused area for researchers. The new domain of Nanostructured lipid carrier is transdermal drug administration by targeting the skin; hence more research is focused on topical preparation. However, toxicity must have to be studied in humans. So by considering all factors one can rename it as “smart nano lipid carrier".
Characterisation of the Vertical Wind Profile According to the Stability Classes of the Atmosphere in Conakry, Guinea
Authors: Mathos Kalil P. , V. Donnou Hagninou E. , Hounguè Guy H. , Kounouhewa Basile B.
Published: March 2022

The characteristics of the vertical wind profile and the wind potential study on the Conakry site for each atmospheric stability class were investigated in this study. Wind speed and air temperature data recorded over the period from January 2001 to December 2019 at 10 m and 50 m above the ground at daily (50 m) and hourly (10 m) scales were used. The wind shear parameters were determined from the logarithmic and power law. Based on the Newman and Klein wind shear model, a new formulation of this parameter was proposed as a function of the Obukhov length at order 2 and calibrated from the measurements using the simplex algorithm of Nelder and Mead. From the Weibull parameters obtained for the stable and unstable period of the atmosphere, the available wind potential at Conakry was estimated from 10 m to 80 m. The results indicate that the annual average of the ground roughness length is 1.7 x 10-2 m. The annual average of the ground friction velocity is 0.19 m.s-1. The atmosphere remains stable at the Conakry site from 09 p.m. to 10 a.m. and unstable from 10 a.m. to 09 p.m. The proposed wind shear formulation gives a better estimation of the wind speed in function of altitude with the lowest values of RMSE and MAE (4.5x10-4 ; 3.8x10-4) m.s-1 in stable and unstable periods (0.09 ; 0.07) m.s-1 compared to some models found in the literature. The mean annual wind shear coefficient in stable period is 0.26 and in unstable period 0.28. The annual mean shape parameter from 10 m to 80 m above ground in stable period is between 1.25 and 1.64, and during unstable period, it varies from 1.55 to 2.07. The annual mean scale parameter at 10 m and 80 m above ground is   (3.9; 7.10) m.s-1 (unstable atmosphere) and (2.45; 4.41) m.s-1 when the atmosphere is stable. The annual average of the energy production under a convective atmosphere at 10 m and 80 m is estimated at 72 W.m-2 and 301 W.m-2 respectively. During the night cycle, this annual production varies from 28 W.m-2 (10 m) to 93 W.m-2 (80 m). Based on these results, the Conakry site is suitable to host medium-sized wind power plants for electricity and water production.
Sticholysin I–II oligomerization in the absence of membranes
Authors: García‐Linares Sara , Amigot‐Sánchez Rafael , García‐Montoya Carmen , Heras‐Márquez Diego , Alfonso Carlos , Luque‐Ortega Juan Román , Gavilanes José G. , Martínez‐del‐Pozo Álvaro , Palacios‐Ortega Juan
Published: March 2022

Sticholysins are pore‐forming toxins produced by the sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus. When they encounter a sphingomyelin‐containing membrane, these proteins bind to it and oligomerize, a process that ends in pore formation. Mounting evidence indicates that StnII can favour the activity of StnI. Previous results have shown that these two isotoxins can oligomerize together. Furthermore, StnII appeared to potentiate the activity of StnI through the membrane‐binding step of the process. Hence, isotoxin interaction should occur prior to membrane encounter. Here, we have used analytical ultracentrifugation to investigate the oligomerization of Stns in solution, both separately and together. Our results indicate that while StnI seems to be more prone to oligomerize in water solution than StnII, a small percentage of StnII in StnI–StnII mixtures promotes oligomerization.
Head start parents' vocational preparedness indirectly predicts preschoolers' physical and relational aggression
Authors: Baker Erin Ruth
Published: March 2022

Severe poverty has profound impacts on child outcomes, yet much of the research on poverty fails to consider the psychological experiences of poverty, frames low‐socioeconomic status families as a monolith, and until recently, has not considered the utility of behavior within the poverty context. This short‐term (4 months) longitudinal study was designed to consider children's aggression as predicted by their inhibitory control (IC) and parents' experiences of poverty‐related strain in an urban Head Start sample. At Time 1, parents reported on their family's economic situation (income, family size), education, vocational preparedness, and completed a measure of psychological economic strain; children (N = 90; Mage = 52.78 months) completed two IC tasks (Day/Night Stroop; Whisper). Four months later, parents completed the Preschool Proactive and Reactive Aggression survey, used to assess children's physical and relational aggression. Mediation analyses supported that physical and relational aggression were both fully mediated from parents' vocational preparedness, though through different mechanisms. Physical aggression was mediated by parents' psychological economic strain. Relational aggression was mediated through children's IC. Findings support the proposal that aggression should be viewed within context and that typical assumptions about developmental patterns of physical aggression may not hold for all children.
Recording Messages on Nonplanar Objects by Cryogenic Electron‐Beam Writing
Authors: Zheng Rui , Zhao Ding , Lu Yihan , Wu Shan , Yao Guangnan , Liu Dongli , Qiu Min
Published: March 2022

The evolution of writing systems illustrates the development of information storage. Here, a unique way is demonstrated using sprayed anisole as the ink and a focused electron‐beam as a pen to record messages on a cooled substrate. Such an electron‐beam writing approach controls the thickness of remained anisole on the substrate. Optical interference at the visible region occurs thereby, resulting directly in a color print. Using discrete dose distribution, an 11‐step structure with a height difference of sub‐10 nm accuracy is written. A quinary pattern with a total thickness of 180 nm and unit square size of 500 nm is also written, implying information density beyond 1013 bits per cm3 (10 Tbit cm–3). Painting at the nanoscale is also enabled by importing grayscale images. In addition, the substrate can be extended from planar to nonplanar or flexible objects, such as an aluminum tape or a silver wire. Combining the grayscale lithographic nature and conformal coating of the ink, this writing process has great potential to store information on any surface.
Low‐Harmonic Generation in Cascaded Thin‐Film Lithium Niobate Waveguides
Authors: Sjaardema Tracy , Malinowski Marcin , Rao Ashutosh , Fathpour Sasan
Published: March 2022

Herein, frequency conversion to the third‐ and fourth‐order harmonics are demonstrated in ultracompact cascaded periodically poled thin‐film lithium niobate (LN) waveguides on silicon substrates. Pumped at 1550 nm wavelength, the tightly confined waveguides produce strong third‐ (523 nm) and fourth‐harmonic (386 nm) signals. Actively monitoring the periodic poling process on the LN devices renders these efficient frequency conversions. Measurements with a femtosecond pulsed laser source result in comparable power levels across the generated harmonics. A model that simulates harmonic generation from the pulsed source is presented and discussed. The model's results are in general agreement with the experimentally observed processes.
Elliptical Birefringent Rib‐Channel Chirowaveguides for Quasicircularly Polarized Light Applications in Integrated Photonics
Authors: Sahib Hoshang , Gassenq Alban , Bensalah-Ledoux Amina , Baguenard Bruno , Guy Laure , Guy Stephan
Published: March 2022

Polarization in photonic‐integrated circuits (PICs) is governed by transverse electric (TE) and magnetic (TM) polarizations due to the planar structure of the chips. Therefore, all states of polarization (SOPs) other than TE and TM, in particular circular polarization, cannot be routed without modification across the chips. Herein, the realization of rib‐channel chirowaveguides supporting elliptically polarized guided modes by combining linear and circular birefringences as predicted by the coupled mode approach is shown. The sol–gel process and the imprint technique to make channel chirowaveguides with different sizes and consequently modulate ellipticity of the eigenmodes from linear to quasicircular are used. Circularly polarized light propagates therefore with a low polarization beating and in particular without handedness inversion. These results open the field of application of PICs to all domains where circularly polarized light is relevant.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Carboxylation of Aryl C−F Bonds with CO2
Authors: Pei Chunzhe , Wang Baiquan
Published: March 2022

The C−F bond is the strongest single bond and it is one of the most challenging tasks to achieve the C−F bond functionalization. Here, we describe the first nickel‐catalyzed selective defluorinative carboxylation of aryl C−F bonds with CO2. Various methyl carboxylates including partially fluorinated carboxylation compounds were obtained. Mechanistic studies reveal that the azanickelacycles might be vital intermediates in this transformation. This novel and straightforward carboxylation strategy will extend the scope of C−F bond functionalization and enhance the understanding of the reactivity of very stable bonds.

magnified image
An Unrevealed Molecular Function of Corannulene Buckybowl Glycoconjugates in Selective Tumor Annihilation by Targeting the Cancer‐Specific Warburg Effect
Authors: Liu Shengnan , Sun Ziru , Liang Min , Song Weijie , Zhang Ru , Shi Yunli , Cui Yujun , Gao Qingzhi
Published: March 2022

The biomedical application of corannulene π‐bowls is historically limited by low solubility and bioavailability despite the potential in their unique electronic properties for new functional materials. Herein, the unexpected role and molecular mechanism of Corranulene π‐bowls are uncovered in biomedical applications as an effective anticancer agent for Warburg effect mediated selective tumor targeting. The corannulene triazolyl monosaccharides Cor‐sugars exhibit highly potent cytotoxicity against human cancer cells and effectively inhibit xenograft growth of hyperglycolytic tumors. Particularly, the galactose‐conjugated Cor‐gal exhibits superior in vivo anticancer efficacy in A549 tumor models with outstanding safety profile compared to doxorubicin. Moreover, the combined treatment of Cor‐gal with immune checkpoint inhibitor results in an effective synergy in treating H460 human lung carcinoma. An uptake mechanism study reveals that Cor‐sugars exploit tumor‐specific glucose transporter glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) for targeted cell delivery and intra‐tumoral accumulation through the cancer‐specific Warburg effect. Their significant anticancer activity is attributed to multiphasic DNA‐binding and cell cycle alteration effects. This study uncovers new molecular properties of corannulene buckybowl and enabling their potential new applications in biomedical engineering.
Skeletal Muscle Fibers Inspired Polymeric Actuator by Assembly of Triblock Polymers
Authors: Wang Weijie , Xu Xian , Zhang Caihong , Huang Hao , Zhu Liping , Yue Kan , Zhu Meifang , Yang Shuguang
Published: March 2022

Inspired by the striated structure of skeletal muscle fibers, a polymeric actuator by assembling two symmetric triblock copolymers, namely, polystyrene‐b‐poly(acrylic acid)‐b‐polystyrene (SAS) and polystyrene‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐polystyrene (SES) is developed. Owing to the microphase separation of the triblock copolymers and hydrogen‐bonding complexation of their middle segments, the SAS/SES assembly forms a lamellar structure with alternating vitrified S and hydrogen‐bonded A/E association layers. The SAS/SES strip can be actuated and operate in response to environmental pH. The contraction ratio and working density of the SAS/SES actuator are approximately 50% and 90 kJ m−3, respectively; these values are higher than those of skeletal muscle fibers. In addition, the SAS/SES actuator shows a “catch‐state”, that is, it can maintain force without energy consumption, which is a feature of mollusc muscle but not skeletal muscle. This study provides a biomimetic approach for the development of artificial polymeric actuators with outstanding performance.
Role of Linker Functionality in Polymers Exhibiting Main‐Chain Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Philipps Kai , Ie Yutaka , van der Zee Bas , Png Rui‐Qi , Ho Peter K. H. , Chua Lay‐Lay , del Pino Rosendo Esther , Ramanan Charusheela , Wetzelaer Gert‐Jan A. H. , Blom Paul W. M. , Michels Jasper J.
Published: March 2022

Excellent performance has been reported for organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on small molecule emitters that exhibit thermally activated delayed fluorescence. However, the necessary vacuum processing makes the fabrication of large‐area devices based on these emitters cumbersome and expensive. Here, the authors present high performance OLEDs, based on novel, TADF polymers that can be readily processed from a solution. These polymers are based on the acridine‐benzophenone donor–acceptor motif as main‐chain TADF chromophores, linked by various conjugated and non‐conjugated spacer moieties. The authors’ extensive spectroscopic and electronic analysis shows that in particular in case of alkyl spacers, the properties and performance of the monomeric TADF chromophores are virtually left unaffected by the polymerization. They present efficient solution‐processed OLEDs based on these TADF polymers, diluted in oligostyrene as a host. The devices based on the alkyl spacer‐based TADF polymers exhibit external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) ≈12%, without any outcoupling‐enhancing measures. What's more, the EQE of these devices does not drop substantially upon diluting the polymer down to only ten weight percent of active material. In contrast, the EQE of devices based on the monomeric chromophore show significant losses upon dilution due to loss of charge percolation.
A new type of multistage structure hydrotalcite material: To promote the absorption of chemicals in wet leather processing
Authors: Zhao Ping , Gao Dangge , Lyu Bin , Zhu Jiamin , Zhou Yingying , Li Yun , Ma Jianzhong
Published: March 2022

A novel ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH was designed and synthesized with Zr‐MOF as template, and subsequently, it was applied to leather tanning. Zr‐MOF and ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nitrogen adsorption instrument. The results of SEM and TEM shown that when the mass ratio of Zr‐MOF to zinc nitrate was 1:2, the size of ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH was about 100 nm with surface has obvious convex polyhedral multilevel structure. The FT‐IR and XPS results showed that the ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH with good crystal structure was prepared. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) results showed that the specific surface area and pore volume of ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH were higher than those of ZnZr‐LDH. The application results shown that compared with 2% chrome tanning agent tanning, the shrinkage temperature of leather treated by ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH combined with 2% chrome tanning agent tanning was increased from 73.1°C to 92.1°C and the thickening rate was increased from 38.71% to 56.98%. The subsequent wet processing was carried out which showed that adding ZnZr‐MOF‐LDH considered to be a good way to enhance the absorption rate of dyestuff and fatliquor, resulting in an ecological process and more economical. The absorption of chemicals during wet processing of leather improves the properties of green leather and reduces environmental pollution.
Neighbors: Some psychoanalytic reflections
Authors: Akhtar Salman
Published: March 2022

While playing an important role in psychic development and sustenance as well as in triggering or causing psychopathology, neighbors have attracted little attention from psychoanalysts. Freud's wry protest against the Biblical injunction to love thy neighbor as thyself and Volkan's psychopolitical studies of ethnic neighbors are exceptions in this regard. Taking them as a starting point but going much farther, this paper elucidates the complex relationships that exists between actual neighbors. It also sheds light on the “neighborly” aspects of the analyst–patient bond. Finally, it underscores the existence of unassimilated self‐representations within each individual that can be viewed as neighbors to his or her core self and deserve benevolent acknowledgment and acceptance.
Driving Role of Interleukin‐2–Related Regulatory CD4+ T Cell Deficiency in the Development of Lung Fibrosis and Vascular Remodeling in a Mouse Model of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Frantz Camelia , Cauvet Anne , Durand Aurélie , Gonzalez Virginie , Pierre Rémi , Do Cruzeiro Marcio , Bailly Karine , Andrieu Muriel , Orvain Cindy , Avouac Jérôme , Ottaviani Mina , Thuillet Raphaël , Tu Ly , Guignabert Christophe , Lucas Bruno , Auffray Cédric , Allanore Yannick
Published: March 2022

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a debilitating autoimmune disease characterized by severe lung outcomes resulting in reduced life expectancy. Fra‐2–transgenic mice offer the opportunity to decipher the relationships between the immune system and lung fibrosis. This study was undertaken to investigate whether the Fra‐2–transgenic mouse lung phenotype may result from an imbalance between the effector and regulatory arms in the CD4+ T cell compartment.

Methods

We first used multicolor flow cytometry to extensively characterize homeostasis and the phenotype of peripheral CD4+ T cells from Fra‐2–transgenic mice and control mice. We then tested different treatments for their effectiveness in restoring CD4+ Treg cell homeostasis, including adoptive transfer of Treg cells and treatment with low‐dose interleukin‐2 (IL‐2).

Results

Fra‐2–transgenic mice demonstrated a marked decrease in the proportion and absolute number of peripheral Treg cells that preceded accumulation of activated, T helper cell type 2–polarized, CD4+ T cells. This defect in Treg cell homeostasis was derived from a combination of mechanisms including impaired generation of these cells in both the thymus and the periphery. The impaired ability of peripheral conventional CD4+ T cells to produce IL‐2 may greatly contribute to Treg cell deficiency in Fra‐2–transgenic mice. Notably, adoptive transfer of Treg cells, low‐dose IL‐2 therapy, or combination therapy changed the phenotype of Fra‐2–transgenic mice, resulting in a significant reduction in pulmonary parenchymal fibrosis and vascular remodeling in the lungs.

Conclusion

Immunotherapies for restoring Treg cell homeostasis could be relevant in SSc. An intervention based on low‐dose IL‐2 injections, as is already proposed in other autoimmune diseases, could be the most suitable treatment modality for restoring Treg cell homeostasis for future research.
N‐Alkyl Linkers for DNA‐Encoded Chemical Libraries
Authors: Sun Zhao‐Mei , Yang Shao‐Guang , Xue Li‐Jun , Zhang Jie , Yang Kexin , Hu Yun‐Jin
Published: March 2022

A series of novel N‐alkyl linkers that connect small‐molecule library members with their encoding DNA oligonucleotides has been developed. In comparison with the standard amide linker (usually constructed with oligo‐AOP‐NH2), the N‐alkyl linker is not only more chemically stable, but also provides better structural diversity at the linkage point. Chemical variety in the vicinity of the polyglycol terminus, in particular, could affect binding interactions with the target protein. It could have been neglected in previous DNA‐encoded chemical library (DEL) synthesis and screening studies due to the limited linkage alternatives. With these linkers, one can produce versatile key intermediates as Cycle 1 products directly amenable to Cycle 2 chemistry without the use of protecting groups. As a result, a DEL synthesis process that uses the fewest chemical conversions, such as 3‐step, 3‐cycle DELs, can achieve higher synthetic efficiency while creating less DNA tag degradation, resulting in higher quality DELs.
Acrocalyenes A and B, Two New Diterpenoids from Sinomenium acutum Associated Fungus Acrocalymma sp.
Authors: Liu Jie , Yang Ting , Yuan Ya‐Hong , Hu Jia‐Yao , Lin Li‐Bin , Yang Mei‐Li , Duan Dong‐Zhu , Gong Guo‐Wei , Xiao Jian , Wang Xiao‐Ling
Published: March 2022

We identified two new diterpenoidal acrocalyenes A (1) and B (2) through chemical investigation on Acrocalymma sp., a plant‐associated fungus from the tender stem isolates of Sinomenium acutum collected from the Qinling Mountains, along with seven already‐recognized compounds (3–9). The HR‐ESI‐TOF‐MS and 1D/2D NMR data were utilized for structural elucidation of these compounds, and the single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction was employed for absolute configuration clarification of the novel acrocalyenes 1 and 2. Bioassays revealed that the cytotoxicities of compounds 2, 4, 6, 7, and 8 against three human carcinoma cells (RKO, HeLa and HCC‐1806) were moderate to strong, with IC50 between 6.70–38.82 μM. These isolates were also evaluated for their fungal resistant potentials against Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium culmorum and Fusarium solani, in which 3 displayed significant inhibitory effects on all three phytopathogenic fungi, showing respective MIC of 50, 25 and 25 μM.
Influence of amyloglucosidase, glucose oxidase, and transglutaminase on the technological quality of gluten‐free bread
Authors: Ebling César D. , Thys Roberta C. S. , Klein Manuela P.
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

The main purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the effects of the commercial enzymes amyloglucosidase, glucose oxidase, and transglutaminase on the technological quality of a gluten‐free bread based on cornstarch, rice flour, and buckwheat flour. Gluten‐free bread was analyzed for baking loss, bread central slice height, specific volume, textural properties, porosity, and pore size.

Findings

Glucose oxidase and transglutaminase provided the lowest values of baking loss (7.16% and 6.38%, respectively) compared with the control (8.56%). Amyloglucosidase resulted in bread with specific volume three times greater (2.55 ml/g) than the control (0.9 ml/g). Transglutaminase provided a 73% decrease in crumb chewiness compared with the control and resulted in bread with small pores.

Conclusion

The application of 15 g/kg of flour amyloglucosidase, 7.5 g/kg of flour glucose oxidase, and 0.25 g/100 kg of flour transglutaminase improved the overall technological quality of the developed gluten‐free bread.

Significance and Novelty

The results obtained showed that industrial enzymes can improve the technological quality—texture and crumb parameters—of a gluten‐free bread made from a complete formulation containing food additives, and buckwheat flour as a protein source.
Intestinal T‐cell lymphoma: A rare entity presenting with severe acute upper quadrant pain
Authors: Mashayekhi Azin , Quiroga Eleonora Fiorletta , Margolick Joseph F. , Post Ginell R.
Published: March 2022

Primary gastrointestinal T‐cell lymphomas are rare. Presenting symptoms can be non‐specific, and imaging studies can show overlap with nonmalignant processes. Definitive diagnosis requires clinical suspicion and histologic evaluation with ancillary studies for appropriate disease classification and therapeutic intervention.
Temporomandibular joint ankylosis—“Knowing when not to operate”: Case report and qualitative systematic review of literature
Authors: Kapoor Kavish , Shadamarshan Rengasayee Arunkumar , Sharma Rohit , Agrawal Nitesh
Published: March 2022

Temporomandibular joint ankyloses (TMJA) may manifest in patients with several predisposing systemic conditions. A case of extraarticular TMJA is presented in a patient diagnosed with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressive (FOP) is presented. The features, diagnosis, and management of TMJA superimposed on this condition are presented through a qualitative systematic review of literature.
Formation of CH4 at the Metal‐Support Interface of Pt/Al2O3 During Hydrogenation of CO2: Operando XAS‐DRIFTS Study
Authors: Kikkawa Soichi , Teramura Kentaro , Kato Kazuo , Asakura Hiroyuki , Hosokawa Saburo , Tanaka Tsunehiro
Published: March 2022

The adsorbed intermediates on supported metal catalysts govern their catalytic activity and selectivity, although it is difficult to quantify them under the working states. We monitored the adsorbed species on Al2O3‐ and SiO2‐supported Pt nanoparticle catalyst during hydrogenation of CO2 and elucidated the CH4‐formation sites at the metal‐support interface of Pt/Al2O3, by using a combination of X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) with product analysis (operando XAS‐DRIFTS). Pt L3‐ and L2‐edge X‐ray absorption near edge structure spectra quantified the unoccupied states of Pt species, revealing that both of hydrogen and CO species adsorbed on the Pt surface of Pt/Al2O3, whereas a relatively smaller amount of hydrogen species adsorbed on Pt/SiO2. The DRIFTS and reaction results indicated that the CO species co‐adsorbed with hydrogen species on the perimeter Pt sites were hydrogenated to CH4 at the interface between Pt particles and Al2O3 surface.