bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of dietary compounds on gut microbiota
Authors: Šikić Pogačar Maja , Mičetić-Turk Dušanka
Published: March 2021

The gut microbiota is a complex community composed of trillions of microbes that adapts to its host over the lifetime. Recently, the advances of the methods of high-throughput sequencing have allowed the identification of microbial species in a stool sample, and mass spectrometry identification of their metabolites, both of which together have enabled much of the relevant research in the field. It has became evident that gut microbiota plays an important role in human health and influences the risk of developing many chronic diseases, including obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The diverse ecosystem of the gut includes bacteria, viruses, phages, yeasts, archaea, fungi and protozoa. They are responsible for the production of bioactive metabolites, regulation of immune function, energy homeostasis and protection against pathogens. The mentioned functions are dependent on the diversity and abundance of the microbiota which is the reflection of the dietary habits and genetics of the host among other factors. As such, gut microbiota has significant interindividual variations. Diet and lifestyle changes present important determinants in microbiota shaping. The use of antibiotics, different sanitation measures, consumption of processed food and different diets are also reflected in the shifts of gut microbiota composition. Some of the dramatic dietary alterations can cause changes in gut microbiota composition already within 24 h and some of these changes may be difficult to reverse. Through modulation of gut microbiota composition, diet could offer a potential to manage the risk of developing disease and at the same time improving the quality of life and longevity. In this review we look at the role of diet, and specific dietary components, namely carbohydrates, proteins, fats and polyphenols on gut microbiota composition.
#PeerRevWk15 y la reflexión sobre los procesos de evaluación de la calidad científica
Authors: Martínez Martínez Silvia , Aranda Dani , Sánchez-Navarro Jordi , Sivera Sílvia
Published: March 2021

Del 28 de septiembre al 2 de octubre, se ha celebrado la primera Peer Review Week dedicada al sistema de revisión que aplican desde publicaciones científicas hasta congresos internacionales que someten a evaluación los trabajos que les son presentados. La iniciativa (promovida por las organizaciones ORCID, ScienceOpen, Sense About Science y Wiley) perseguía subrayar la importancia de este mecanismo para valorar la validez de estudios realizados por académicos e investigadores. Las distintas actividades organizadas esta semana han contribuido no solo a difundir y explicar este mecanismo de evaluación científica, sino también a reflexionar sobre qué factores deben optimizarse para garantizar y mejorar la calidad de las aportaciones científicas.
El derecho a la información después del 27-S
Authors: Clua Anna
Published: March 2021

En caso de ganar las elecciones, ¿estaríais dispuestos a desarrollar y aplicar el artículo 52 del Estatuto de Autonomía de Cataluña? Claras y concisas como esta fueron las preguntas que las y los representantes de los movimientos sociales y el público participante hicieron a los conferenciantes del debate “¿Cómo garantizamos el derecho a la información y a la comunicación de la ciudadanía después del 27-S?”.
¿Malos tiempos para la lírica?
Authors: Sanz Martos Sandra
Published: March 2021

Admitámoslo, las humanidades no están de moda. Nos estamos dejando deslumbrar por las tecnologías –como si de algún prestidigitador decimonónico se tratara–, por el nuevo modelo de iphone, y por sus nuevas aplicaciones, por el ipad mini y por las phablets… La mayoría de los jóvenes que deciden realizar estudios universitarios optan por los que consideran que podrían garantizar su futuro y aquí prevalecen las carreras de ingeniería y tecnológicas. Y, por el contrario, las facultades que –de manera genérica– denominamos de letras ven mermadas sus aulas. De esto nos habla Wilson en su libro The meaning of human existence. Sin embargo, pareciera que no está todo perdido. Y que, en paralelo, ya hace algún tiempo, por la red –y de la mano de esas tecnologías aparentemente tan antagónicas– se mueven algunas iniciativas no tan pensadas para cuidar el bolsillo sino el alma…
Sub-minute prediction of brain temperature based on sleep–wake state in the mouse
Authors: Sela Yaniv , Hoekstra Marieke MB , Franken Paul
Published: March 2021

Although brain temperature has neurobiological and clinical importance, it remains unclear which factors contribute to its daily dynamics and to what extent. Using a statistical approach, we previously demonstrated that hourly brain temperature values co-varied strongly with time spent awake (Hoekstra et al., 2019). Here we develop and make available a mathematical tool to simulate and predict cortical temperature in mice based on a 4-s sleep–wake sequence. Our model estimated cortical temperature with remarkable precision and accounted for 91% of the variance based on three factors: sleep–wake sequence, time-of-day (‘circadian’), and a novel ‘prior wake prevalence’ factor, contributing with 74%, 9%, and 43%, respectively (including shared variance). We applied these optimized parameters to an independent cohort of mice and predicted cortical temperature with similar accuracy. This model confirms the profound influence of sleep–wake state on brain temperature, and can be harnessed to differentiate between thermoregulatory and sleep–wake-driven effects in experiments affecting both.
SARS-CoV-2 suppresses anticoagulant and fibrinolytic gene expression in the lung
Authors: Mast Alan E , Wolberg Alisa S , Gailani David , Garvin Michael R , Alvarez Christiane , Miller J Izaak , Aronow Bruce , Jacobson Daniel
Published: March 2021

Extensive fibrin deposition in the lungs and altered levels of circulating blood coagulation proteins in COVID-19 patients imply local derangement of pathways that limit fibrin formation and/or promote its clearance. We examined transcriptional profiles of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples to identify molecular mechanisms underlying these coagulopathies. mRNA levels for regulators of the kallikrein–kinin (C1-inhibitor), coagulation (thrombomodulin, endothelial protein C receptor), and fibrinolytic (urokinase and urokinase receptor) pathways were significantly reduced in COVID-19 patients. While transcripts for several coagulation proteins were increased, those encoding tissue factor, the protein that initiates coagulation and whose expression is frequently increased in inflammatory disorders, were not increased in BALF from COVID-19 patients. Our analysis implicates enhanced propagation of coagulation and decreased fibrinolysis as drivers of the coagulopathy in the lungs of COVID-19 patients.
Semantic micro-contributions with decentralized nanopublication services
Authors: Kuhn Tobias , Taelman Ruben , Emonet Vincent , Antonatos Haris , Soiland-Reyes Stian , Dumontier Michel
Published: March 2021

While the publication of Linked Data has become increasingly common, the process tends to be a relatively complicated and heavy-weight one. Linked Data is typically published by centralized entities in the form of larger dataset releases, which has the downside that there is a central bottleneck in the form of the organization or individual responsible for the releases. Moreover, certain kinds of data entries, in particular those with subjective or original content, currently do not fit into any existing dataset and are therefore more difficult to publish. To address these problems, we present here an approach to use nanopublications and a decentralized network of services to allow users to directly publish small Linked Data statements through a simple and user-friendly interface, called Nanobench, powered by semantic templates that are themselves published as nanopublications. The published nanopublications are cryptographically verifiable and can be queried through a redundant and decentralized network of services, based on the grlc API generator and a new quad extension of Triple Pattern Fragments. We show here that these two kinds of services are complementary and together allow us to query nanopublications in a reliable and efficient manner. We also show that Nanobench makes it indeed very easy for users to publish Linked Data statements, even for those who have no prior experience in Linked Data publishing.
Luzindole and 4P-PDOT block the effect of melatonin on bovine granulosa cell apoptosis and cell cycle depending on its concentration
Authors: Wang Shujuan , Liu Wenju , Wen Aiyou , Yang Bing , Pang Xunsheng
Published: March 2021

Granulosa cells play an essential physiological role in mediating the follicle development and survival or apoptosis of granulosa cells dictate the follicle development or atresia. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of high dose (10−5 M) and low dose (10−9 M) melatonin in bovine granulosa cells, and assess whether MT1 and MT2 inhibiter affect granulosa cells response to melatonin. We found that the high dose (10−5 M) and low dose (10−9 M) both could act as an essential role in modulating granulosa cells apoptosis, cell cycle and antioxidant. The beneficial effect could be related to that melatonin promoted the expression of Bcl2, Bcl-xl, SOD1 and GPX4, and inhibited Bax, caspase-3 and p53 expression. Moreover P21 expression was decreased in granulosa cells treated with the high dose (10−5 M) melatonin and increased in that treated with the low dose (10−9 M) melatonin. To further reveal the role of MT1 and MT2 in mediating the effect of melatonin on granulosa cells apoptosis, cell cycle and antioxidant, we found that the luzindole and 4P-PDOT did not affect the effect of high dose (10−5 M) melatonin on regulating Bcl2, Bax, caspase-3, SOD1, GPX4 and p53 expression, while blocked its effect on modulating Bcl-xl and P21expression. However, luzindole and 4P-PDOT disturbed the effect of low dose (10−9 M) melatonin on regulating Bcl2, Bax, caspase-3, Bcl-xl, SOD1, GPX4, and p53 expression. In conclusion, these results reveal that the effect of low dose (10−9 M) melatonin on granulosa cells apoptosis are mediated by MT1 and MT2, and the high dose (10−5 M) melatonin affect the granulosa cells apoptosis by other pathway, besides MT1 and MT2. Moreover MT1 and MT2 may work in concert to modulate bovine granulosa cells function by regulating cellular progression and apoptosis.
Development and validation of bioimpedance prediction equations for fat-free mass in unilateral male amputees
Authors: Choi Hyuk-Jae , Ko Chang-Yong , Chang Yunhee , Kim Gyoo-Suk , Choi Kyungsik , Kim Chul-Hyun
Published: March 2021

Background

Metabolic disease due to increased fat mass is observed in amputees (APTs), thereby restricting their activity. Systemic health management with periodic body composition (BC) testing is essential for healthy living. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a non-invasive and low-cost method to test BC; however, the APTs are classified as being exempted in the BIA.

Objective

To develop segmental estimated regression equations (sEREs) for determining the fat-free mass (FFM, kg) suitable for APTs and improve the accuracy and validity of the sERE.

Methods

Seventy-five male APTs participated in this cross-sectional study. Multiple regression analysis was performed to develop highly accurate sEREs of BIA based on independent variables derived from anthropometric measurements, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and BIA parameters. The difference in validity between the predicted DXA and sum of the segmentally-predicted FFM values by sEREs (Sum_sEREs) values was evaluated using bivariate linear regression analysis and the Bland–Altman plot.

Results

The coefficient of determination (R2) and total error (TE) between DXA and Sum_sEREs were 71% and 5.4 (kg) in the cross-validation analysis.

Conclusions

We confirmed the possibility of evaluating the FFM of APTs through the sEREs developed in this study. We also identified several independent variables that should be considered while developing such sEREs. Further studies are required to determine the validity of our sEREs and the most appropriate BIA frequencies for measuring FFM in APTs.
A revision ofProlimulus woodwardiFritsch, 1899 with comparison to other highly paedomorphic belinurids
Authors: Lustri Lorenzo , Laibl Lukáš , Bicknell Russell D.C.
Published: March 2021

Xiphosurida is an ingroup of marine Euchelicerata often referred to as “living fossils”. However, this oxymoronic term is inapplicable for Paleozoic and early Mesozoic forms, as during these periods the group experienced notable evolutionary radiations; particularly the diverse late Palaeozoic clade Belinurina. Despite the iconic nature of the group, select species in this clade have been left undescribed in the light of recent geometric morphometric and phylogenetic considerations and methodologies. To this end, we re-describeProlimulus woodwardiFritsch, 1899 using new and type specimens to reveal more details on appendage anatomy and possible ecology. Furthermore, we present geometric morphometric and phylogenetic analyses that uncover relationships betweenP. woodwardiand other belinurids without genal spines. Both approaches highlight that a clade containingProlimulusFritsch, 1899,LiomesaspisRaymond, 1944,AlanopsRacheboeuf, Vannier & Anderson, 2002 andStilpnocephalusSelden, Simonetto & Marsiglio, 2019 may exist. While we do not erect a new group to contain these genera, we note that these genera exemplify the extreme limits of the Belinurina radiation and a peak in horseshoe crab diversity and disparity. This evidence also illustrates how changes in heterochronic timing are a key evolutionary phenomenon that can drive radiations among animals.
Oxidative Stress in Preterm Neonates: An Analysis of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Antioxidant Profiles
Authors: Pajai Shobha S , Bezalwar Apurva P
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Oxidative stress is a complex event determined genetically and induced by an in- utero stressor. Oxidants are composed of reactive free radicals like Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS) which are manifested by several macromolecules of lipid, protein and DNA, causing deleterious effects in several organs. Antioxidant defense mechanism and its ability to be induced by hyperoxia is relatively impaired in preterm neonates. Aim: To study oxidative stress and antioxidants in preterm neonates. Materials and Methods: This study is an observational analytical study, which included preterm babies (25 males and 20 females) delivered vaginally from October 2012 to October 2013. Cord blood was collected in citrate bulbs immediately after vaginal delivery and stored at 4°C until processed. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitrates, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, levels were measured in cord blood. Statistical z-test was applied. Results: High levels of oxidative stress biomarkers like MDA and Nitrites along with decreased levels of antioxidants, Vitamin C and Vitamin E in preterm neonates was observed. MDA and Nitrates levels were significantly higher in males (p<0.05) than females. Vitamin C and Vitamin E levels were not significant (p>0.05) in both. Conclusion: This study results may conclude that preterm neonates have more oxidative stress especially in males affecting their life survival.
Impact of Non-Performing Loans on Credit Growth in the Banking Industry in Tanzania: 2009 – 2018
Authors: Lihawa John P. , Ngaruko Deus D.
Published: March 2021

This study adopted descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis in investigating the impact of Non-Performing Loans (NPL) on credit growth to private sector in Tanzania, apart from NPL. The study also investigated the influence of interest rates, inflation rates and GDP on credit advancement to private sector in Tanzania. Using multiple linear regression analysis the study found that both NPL and interest rates have negative impact on the credit growth to private sector in Tanzania, with coefficient values of -0.323 and -0.263 for NPL and interest rate respectively. Furthermore, the study also found that Inflation rate and GDP growth rate have positive impact on the credit growth to private sector in Tanzania with coefficients of 0.247and 0.156 for inflation rate and GDP growth rate respectively. The study found that NPL has a significant negative impact on the credit growth by commercial bank to private sector in Tanzania. These results suggest that the central bank should continue to closely monitor and control the level of NPL in the economy and confine it below the threshold of 5% as stipulated by the BOT and IMF. The study also recommends that commercial banks should ensure that a thorough credit risk assessment is conducted when advancing loans to private sector.
Needs of all Consumer Beauty Products One- Dimensional Human Critical Study of the Consumer Beauty Products the Body Shop
Authors: Hena Eduardus , Rusadi Udi , Dua Mikhael
Published: March 2021

Beauty consumers are currently promised to satisfy their needs by interpolating capitalist ideology in The Body Shop's advertising discourse on digital media, which can eliminate Reason in fulfilling requirements. This research was conducted to examine the interpellation of capitalist ideology in exploiting consumers' beauty needs, consumers to process the interpellation of capitalist ideologies to fulfill apparent beauty needs, and the emancipation process to free these consumers. The research found that the interpellation of capitalist ideology in The Body Shop's advertising discourse on digital media to exploit consumers through preconditions of pleasure, exploitation of instincts, alienation, and sublimation of concern, sublimation for transformation, separation, and discrimination of real needs; in the way of shaking logic, manipulative messages, promising the pleasures of beauty necessities. Each consumer responds to the interpellation of capitalist ideology in different dimensions: 1) Two-dimensional consumers maintain rational and irrational reasoning to meet their real needs, 2) One-dimensional consumers only use illogical reasoning to fulfill apparent needs, 3) Consumers with metamorphosis dimensions with superficial needs. For this reason, a new size is needed in the digital communication era, namely "Three Dimensional Consumers: Combine rational reasoning, irrational reasoning, humanist communication media, so that consumers meet their true humanist and transcendent needs.
Acid Soil Management in Jhum Fields of Maize under Zunheboto District of Nagaland
Authors: Sentimenla .
Published: March 2021

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop in the world due to its adaptability towards varied agro-climatic conditions. It is considered the Queen of the cereals. It ranks third among the cereals next to wheat and rice. The leading producer of maize is USA with 10.34 t ha -1 followed by Argentina (5.61 t ha-1) and China (5.35 t ha-1). It is the third most important cereal next to rice and wheat contributing about 10% of the total food grain production. Maize is the second most important crop next to rice in the Northeast region of India grown under rainfed upland soils. It is used for direct consumption as well as feeds to the farm animals. The area under maize in Zunheboto district of Nagaland is 10,100 hectare, however its productivity is only about 1.98 Mt ha-1 and hence its production needs to be improved. The soils are acidic in this region and often needs to be reclaimed to increase the productivity of the maize. A field level demonstrations on acid soil management using lime was conducted based on the soil type and pH in upland jhum fields of Aotsakili and Sumi Settsu villages under Zunheboto district of Nagaland covering 2 hectares. It was observed that with the application of lime, the average mean of pH was increased from 6.2 to 6.4 and the mean yield of maize was 2300 kg ha-1 over control (1600 kg ha-1) with B:C ratio of 2.6 over farmers practice 2.2. This technology was found to be beneficial and suitable for neutralizing soil acidity for crop production.
Differences between fixed day shift nurses and rotating and irregular shift nurses in work-related musculoskeletal disorders: A literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Wen-Pei , Peng Yu-Xuan
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are common occupational injuries for nurses. Furthermore, rotating and irregular shift work may exacerbate muscle tension and pain in nurses. The objective of this study was to examine the differences between fixed day shift (FDS) nurses and rotating and irregular shift (RS + IS) nurses in WMSDs using a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies published between 2010 and 2020 using the target keywords.

Results

This study obtained data on a total of 18 199 nurses, among which 12 786 comprised the RS + IS group and 5413 constituted the FDS group. The result of the heterogeneity test was Q = 79.27 (P < .001) and I squared = 57.11%, indicating that heterogeneity existed among the studies. Subgroup analyses were also conducted with four groups: neck pain (n = 1818), shoulder and upper limb pain (n = 2525), back pain (n = 11 962), and hip and lower limb pain (n = 1894). Significant differences were found between the RS + IS group and the FDS group with regard to back pain, with the forest plot presenting an odds ratio equaling 1.40 (95% CI: 1.19–1.64, P < .001).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis indicated that RS + IS nurses are more likely to experience back pain associated with WMSD than are FDS nurses. The results can serve as a reference to the clinical management for work improvement and thereby reduce or prevent the adverse effects of rotating and irregular shift work on back pain experienced by nurses.
Association between work style and presenteeism in the Japanese service sector
Authors: Ishimaru Tomohiro , Fujino Yoshihisa
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To address ongoing problems concerning population aging and labor shortages in Japan, employers have sought to improve work efficiency and labor productivity. However, it is unclear how presenteeism is affected by working styles in line with current corporate initiatives, such as reduced working hours, varied employment status, and flexible work arrangements. The purpose of this article was to investigate the association between work style and presenteeism.

Methods

This cross-sectional study extracted data from employee profiles, employee attendance records, and a questionnaire in a large service sector company. Multiple linear regression was conducted to estimate the contributions of work style variables to the Work Limitations Questionnaire (WLQ) index score.

Results

In total, 21 500 participants were eligible for analysis. The WLQ index was lower for those working < 35 h/week (adjusted regression coefficient [ARC]:−0.35%; 95% CI: −0.48 to − 0.21) and higher for those working 40-44 h/week or ≥ 45 h/week, compared with those working 35-39 h/week. The position of team manager was positively associated with the WLQ index, whereas senior manager (ARC: −1.44%; 95% CI: −1.71 to − 1.17) and part-time staff (ARC: −1.75%; 95% CI: −1.98 to − 1.52) positions were negatively associated with the WLQ index, compared with non-managers. Those who worked remotely had significantly lower WLQ index scores (ARC: −0.61%; 95% CI: −0.95 to − 0.27).

Conclusions

Reduced working hours and flexible work arrangements were associated with lower work limitations, which imply presenteeism, although additional research is necessary to verify these results.
The altered expression of neurofilament in mouse models and patients with spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Spicer Charlotte , Lu Ching‐Hua , Catapano Francesco , Scoto Mariacristina , Zaharieva Irina , Malaspina Andrea , Morgan Jennifer E. , Greensmith Linda , Muntoni Francesco , Zhou Haiyan
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To investigate the levels of neurofilaments (NFs) in transgenic mice and patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and to evaluate their efficacy as a biomarker in SMA.

Methods

The levels of NF mRNA transcripts were measured by quantitative real‐time PCR in spinal cord from SMA mice. Blood levels of NF heavy chain (NfH) from mice and patients were measured by an in‐house ELISA method. The response of NFs to therapeutic intervention was analysed in severe SMA mice treated with morpholino antisense oligonucleotides.

Results

Significant changes in NF transcript and protein in spinal cord and protein levels in blood were detected in SMA mice with severe or mild phenotypes, at different time points. A decrease in blood levels of NfH after antisense oligonucleotide treatment was only transient in the mice, despite the persistent benefit on the disease phenotype. A drastic reduction of over 90% in blood levels of NfF was observed in both control and SMA mice during early postnatal development. In contrast, blood levels of NfH were found to be decreased in older SMA children with chronic disease progression.

Interpretation

Our results show that blood NfH levels are informative in indicating disease onset and response to antisense oligonucleotides treatment in SMA mice, and indicate their potential as a peripheral marker reflecting the pathological status in central nervous system. In older patients with chronic SMA, however, the lower NfH levels may limit their application as biomarker, highlighting the need to continue to pursue additional biomarkers for this group of patients.
Dynamics of temporal experience in active and passive waiting situations
Authors: Ehret Sonja , Trukenbrod Anna K. , Thomaschke Roland
Published: March 2021

Activities can have substantial impacts on temporal experience. We investigated how the impact of being active develops dynamically over the course of long waiting times. Participants waited in a library building, either sitting passively or walking around actively, for between 60 and 100 minutes. Retrospectively, they reported how different aspects of their temporal experiences developed throughout their wait: duration judgments, passage of time judgments, and general awareness of time. Duration was estimated to be shorter in the passive than in the active condition throughout the wait. In an early phase, the passage of time felt slower and time awareness was felt to be higher in the passive condition. Yet, this difference was resolved over the course of the wait. We conclude that the effects of activity on temporal experiences decrease over longer waiting periods.
An Instant Change of Elastic Lattice Strain during Cu2Se Phase Transition: Origin of Abnormal Thermoelectric Properties
Authors: Bai Hui , Su Xianli , Yang Dongwang , Zhang Qingjie , Tan Gangjian , Uher Ctirad , Tang Xinfeng , Wu Jinsong
Published: March 2021

The superionic conductor Cu2Se is a promising thermoelectric material due to its low thermal conductivity. An abnormal but clear change in the thermoelectric parameters has been observed during the phase transformation from the ordered and non‐cubic α‐Cu2Se to the disordered and cubic β‐Cu2Se. However, the microstructural origin of the abnormal change and its implications for thermoelectric applications remain largely unknown. Herein, by mimicking the real working conditions of thermoelectrics, the phase transition from α‐ to β‐Cu2Se induced by the rising temperature has been carefully investigated by in situ transmission electron microscopy. It is observed that an abrupt and anisotropic volume‐change in the Se‐sublattice occurs when the temperature is raised to the phase transition point. The abnormal change in the crystalline volume versus temperature, which is caused by the local migration of Cu‐ions, induces an instant and uncommon strain‐field, which reduces the carrier's mobility and increases the electrical resistance. Local migration of Cu‐ions is responsible for a quite low thermal conductivity. Such effects exist only at the instance of the phase transition. Observing the thermoelectric response of the structure during the phase transition may provide insights into the development of high performance thermoelectric materials, which fall beyond the traditional approaches.
Lithium‐Ion and Sodium‐Ion Hybrid Capacitors: From Insertion‐Type Materials Design to Devices Construction
Authors: Dong Shengyang , Lv Nan , Wu Yulin , Zhu Guoyin , Dong Xiaochen
Published: March 2021

There is a great appeal to develop an omnipotent player combining lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with the capacitive storage communities. Hybrid capacitors as a kind of promising energy storage device are attracting increasing attention in the main playground in recent years. Unlike supercapacitors (SCs) and LIBs, hybrid capacitors combine a capacitive electrode with a Faradaic battery electrode. In these hybrid cells, the capacitive electrode brings the power while the energy mainly comes from the Faradaic one. Numerous efforts have been conducted in the past decades; however, the research about hybrid capacitors is still at its infancy stage, and it is not expected to replace LIBs or SCs in the near future utterly. Here, the advances of hybrid capacitors, including insertion‐type materials, lithium‐ion capacitors, and sodium‐ion capacitors, are reviewed. This review aims to offer useful guidance for the design of faradic battery electrodes and hybrid cell construction. Brief challenges and opportunities for future research on hybrid capacitors are finally presented.
Monotherapy and Combination Therapy Using Anti‐Angiogenic Nanoagents to Fight Cancer
Authors: Liang Pingping , Ballou Byron , Lv Xinyi , Si Weili , Bruchez Marcel P. , Huang Wei , Dong Xiaochen
Published: March 2021

Anti‐angiogenic therapy, targeting vascular endothelial cells (ECs) to prevent tumor growth, has been attracting increasing attention in recent years, beginning with bevacizumab (Avastin) through its Phase II/III clinical trials on solid tumors. However, these trials showed only modest clinical efficiency; moreover, anti‐angiogenic therapy may induce acquired resistance to the drugs employed. Combining advanced drug delivery techniques (e.g., nanotechnology) or other therapeutic strategies (e.g., chemotherapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy, and immunotherapy) with anti‐angiogenic therapy results in significantly synergistic effects and has opened a new horizon in fighting cancer. Herein, clinical difficulties in using traditional anti‐angiogenic therapy are discussed. Then, several promising applications of anti‐angiogenic nanoagents in monotherapies and combination therapies are highlighted. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of anti‐angiogenic cancer therapy are summarized. A useful introduction to anti‐angiogenic strategies, which may significantly improve therapeutic outcomes, is thus provided.
Flexible Noncontact Sensing for Human–Machine Interaction
Authors: Lu Lijun , Jiang Chunpeng , Hu Guosheng , Liu Jingquan , Yang Bin
Published: March 2021

From typical electrical appliances to thriving intelligent robots, the exchange of information between humans and machines has mainly relied on the contact sensor medium. However, this kind of contact interaction can cause severe problems, such as inevitable mechanical wear and cross‐infection of bacteria or viruses between the users, especially during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Therefore, revolutionary noncontact human–machine interaction (HMI) is highly desired in remote online detection and noncontact control systems. In this study, a flexible high‐sensitivity humidity sensor and array are presented, fabricated by anchoring multilayer graphene (MG) into electrospun polyamide (PA) 66. The sensor works in noncontact mode for asthma detection, via monitoring the respiration rate in real time, and remote alarm systems and provides touchless interfaces in medicine delivery for bedridden patients. The physical structure of the large specific surface area and the chemical structure of the abundant water‐absorbing functional groups of the PA66 nanofiber networks contribute to the high performance synergistically. This work can lead to a new era of noncontact HMI without the risk of contagiousness and provide a general and effective strategy for the development of smart electronics that require noncontact interaction.
Single Atom‐Based Nanoarchitectured Electrodes for High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Jie , Ding Bing , Lu Xiangjun , Nara Hiroki , Sugahara Yoshiyuki , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: March 2021

Lithium−sulfur (Li−S) batteries have attracted particular interest as promising next‐generation energy storage devices because of their high theoretical energy density and low cost. The real performance of Li−S batteries is, however, far from achieving the expected values, even when using a porous, highly conductive host of sulfurs to improve their electric conductivity and accommodate their volume changes. The performance restrictions are mainly attributable to the slow reaction kinetics of converting lithium polysulfides species to lithium sulfide and elemental sulfur during the charging and discharging processes, respectively. Recent studies show that single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with superior catalytic activity offer an effective strategy for solving this tough issue. The recent advances in utilizing SACs for Li−S batteries, which involve catalyst preparation, battery performance, and mechanistic insights, are summarized here. Modification of the cathodes and separators with SACs helps to absorb polysulfide and promote their conversion kinetics, thus suppressing the notorious “shuttle effect.” In addition, the introduction of SACs into Li−S batteries promotes the efficiency of Li stripping/plating and prevents the growth of Li dendrites. Overall, the boost effects of SAC on Li−S batteries performance are noticeable and deserving of more research attention to develop better Li−S batteries.
Two‐Tier Nanolaminate Plasmonic Crystals for Broadband Multiresonant Light Concentration with Spatial Mode Overlap
Authors: Safiabadi Tali Seied Ali , Song Junyeob , Nam Wonil , Zhou Wei
Published: March 2021

Effective trapping and nanolocalization of different colored photons simultaneously at the same position remain a challenge in nanophotonics research but can boost applications based on nonlinear multiphoton processes. For achieving broadband nanoscale light concentration, a promising strategy is to employ multiresonant plasmonic devices that support multiple hybridized surface plasmon modes with spatial overlap at several different resonance wavelengths. However, high‐order plasmonic modes from hybridization tend to have a dark multipolar nature and are less useful due to weak interactions with free‐space light. Here, it is reported that nanolaminate plasmonic crystals in a two‐tier configuration can support many (≈10) spatially overlapped and highly‐excitable hybridized plasmonic modes under free‐space light illumination between 400 and 1400 nm. Combination of nanoimprinting lithography and multilayered physical vapor deposition techniques enables wafer‐scale fabrication of nanolaminate plasmonic crystals consisting of nanolaminate nanodome and nanohole arrays as the two closely‐separated subsystems, and measurements demonstrate their multiresonant plasmonic responses in good agreement with numerical calculations. Coupled‐mode theory analysis reveals that the unique broadband multiresonant responses of the two‐tier nanolaminate plasmonic crystals are due to the synergistic effects of the strong near‐field interactions between the modes in the nanodome and nanohole subsystems and the ground‐plane‐like loading effect from the nanohole subsystem.
Co2FeAl Full Heusler Compound Based Spintronic Terahertz Emitter
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Husain Sajid , Kumar Ankit , Brucas Rimantas , Rydberg Anders , Svedlindh Peter
Published: March 2021

To achieve a large terahertz (THz) amplitude from a spintronic THz emitter (STE), materials with 100% spin polarisation such as Co‐based Heusler compounds as ferromagnetic layer are required. However, these compounds are known to loose their half‐metallicity in the ultrathin film regime, as it is difficult to achieve L21 ordering, which has become a bottleneck for the film growth. Here, the successful deposition using room temperature DC sputtering of the L21 and B2 ordered phases of the Co2FeAl full Heusler compound is reported. Co2FeAl is used as ferromagnetic layer together with highly orientated Pt as nonferromagnetic layer in the Co2FeAl/Pt STE, where an MgO (10 nm) seed layer plays an important role to achieve the L21 and B2 ordering of Co2FeAl. The THz generation in the Co2FeAl/Pt STE is presented, which has a bandwidth of 0.2–4 THz. The THz electric field amplitude is optimized with respect to thickness, orientation, and growth parameters using a thickness dependent model considering the optically induced spin current, superdiffusive spin current, inverse spin Hall effect, and the THz attenuation in the layers. This study, based on the full Heusler Co2FeAl compound opens up a plethora of possibilities in STE research involving full Heusler compounds.
Multifunctional Stretchable Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Electronics with Transparent Conductive Silver Nanowire/Biopolymer Hybrid Films
Authors: Park Sung Bin , Han Joo Won , Kim Jung Ha , Wibowo Anky Fitrian , Prameswati Ajeng , Park Jihyun , Lee Jonghee , Moon Myoung‐Woon , Kim Min‐Seok , Kim Yong Hyun
Published: March 2021

Stretchable organic electronics open opportunities for novel applications in next‐generation intelligent electronics, such as human‐friendly, skin‐attachable, and implantable devices. Stretchable transparent electrodes with appropriate electrical, mechanical, and optical properties as well as high conformability to curved surfaces and human skin are key components of wearable and implantable devices. Herein, a silver nanowire (AgNW)‐embedded chitosan biopolymer hybrid film is presented as a high‐performance stretchable transparent electrode. The introduction of an organic surface modifier and embedding the AgNW network results in remarkably improved adhesion between the nanowires and substrate; consequently, the electrical properties and mechanical performance of the stretchable films are improved simultaneously. The fabricated hybrid films show high transmittance (89.0% at 550 nm), low sheet resistance (8.4 ohm sq−1), and limited resistance change under tensile strains. Moreover, these stretchable transparent electrodes with versatile applicability are integrated into multifunctional stretchable electronic devices such as heaters, strain sensors, and light‐emitting devices, which show excellent thermal, strain sensing, and light‐emitting properties, respectively. In addition, they conform to curved surfaces or human skin and maintain their mechanical robustness. The proposed strategy offers new opportunities for stretchable and biocompatible organic electronics, particularly for skin‐attachable, visually imperceptible thermal management devices, strain sensors, and light‐emitting devices.
Bio‐Inspired Multi‐Mode Pain‐Perceptual System (MMPPS) with Noxious Stimuli Warning, Damage Localization, and Enhanced Damage Protection
Authors: Li Fali , Gao Shuang , Lu Ying , Asghar Waqas , Cao Jinwei , Hu Chao , Yang Huali , Wu Yuanzhao , Li Shengbin , Shang Jie , Liao Meiyong , Liu Yiwei , Li Run‐Wei
Published: March 2021

The multi‐mode pain‐perceptual system (MMPPS) is essential for the human body to perceive noxious stimuli in all circumstances and make an appropriate reaction. Based on the central sensitization mechanism, the MMPPS can switch between different working modes and thus offers a smarter protection mechanism to human body. Accordingly, before injury MMPPS can offer warning of excessive pressure with normal pressure threshold. After injury, extra care on the periphery of damage will be activated by decreasing the pressure threshold. Furthermore, the MMPPS will gradually recover back to a normal state as damage heals. Although current devices can realize basic functions like damage localization and nociceptor signal imitating, the development of a human‐like MMPPS is still a great challenge. Here, a bio‐inspired MMPPS is developed for prosthetics protection, in which all working modes is realized and controlled by mimicking the central sensitization mechanism. Accordingly, the system warns one of a potential injury, identifies the damaged area, and subsequently offers extra care. The proposed system can open new avenues for designing next‐generation prosthetics, especially make other smart sensing systems operate under complete protection against injuries.
Incidence of acute myocardial infarction in the workforce: Findings from the Occupational Disease Surveillance System
Authors: Troke Natalie , Logar‐Henderson Chloë , DeBono Nathan , Dakouo Mamadou , Hussain Selena , MacLeod Jill S. , Demers Paul A.
Published: March 2021

Background

Increased risks of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may be attributable to the workplace, however, associations are not well‐established. Using the Occupational Disease Surveillance System (ODSS), we sought to estimate associations between occupation and industry of employment and AMI risk among workers in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

The study population was derived by linking provincial accepted lost‐time workers' compensation claims data, to inpatient hospitalization records. Workers aged 15–65 years with an accepted non‐AMI compensation claim were followed for an AMI event between 2007 and 2016. Adjusted Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each industry and occupation group, compared to all other workers in the cohort. Sex‐stratified analyses were also performed.

Results

In all, 24,514 incident cases of AMI were identified among 1,502,072 Ontario workers. Increased incidence rates of AMI were found across forestry (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.19–1.58) and wood processing (HR 1.50, 1.27–1.77) job‐titles. Elevated rates were also detected within industries and occupations both broadly related to mining and quarrying (HR 1.52, 1.17–1.97), trucking (HR 1.32, 1.27‐1.38), construction (HR 1.32, 1.14–1.54), and the manufacturing and processing of metal (HR 1.41, 1.19–1.68), textile (HR 1.41, 1.07–1.88), non‐metallic mineral (HR 1.30, 0.82–2.07), and rubber and plastic (HR 1.42, 1.27–1.60) products. Female food service workers also had elevated AMI rates (HR 1.36, 1.23–1.51).

Conclusion

This study found occupational variation in AMI incidence. Future studies should examine work‐related hazards possibly contributing to such excess risks, like noise, vibration, occupational physical activity, shift work, and chemical and particulate exposures.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Cyclohepta[b]indoles by Visible‐Light‐Induced [2+2]‐Cycloaddition/retro‐Mannich‐type Reactions
Authors: Mu Xin‐Peng , Li Yuan‐He , Zheng Nan , Long Jian‐Yu , Chen Si‐Jia , Liu Bing‐Yan , Zhao Chun‐Bo , Yang Zhen
Published: March 2021

A novel method for the concise synthesis of cyclohepta[b]indoles in high yields was developed. The method involves a visible‐light‐induced, photocatalyzed [2+2]‐cycloaddition/ retro‐Mannich‐type reaction of enaminones. Experimental and computational studies suggested that the reaction is a photoredox process initiated by single‐electron oxidation of an enaminone moiety, which undergoes subsequent cyclobutane formation and rapidly fragmentation in a radical‐cation state to form cyclohepta[b]indoles.
Nanofluid of magnetic‐activated charcoal and hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent: Application in dispersive magnetic solid‐phase extraction for the determination and preconcentration of warfarin in biological samples by high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Nooraee Nia Negar , Hadjmohammadi Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2021

In this study, for the first time, nanofluid of magnetic‐activated charcoal and hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent (AC@Fe3O4–DES) based dispersive magnetic solid‐phase extraction was successfully applied for the determination and preconcentration of warfarin in plasma and urine samples. The hydrophobic DES was prepared by mixing tetramethylammonium chloride (as hydrogen bond acceptor) and thymol (as hydrogen bond donor) and acted simultaneously as both carrier and stabilizer for magnetic nanoparticles. In this method, the nanofluid as a new extraction solvent was rapidly injected into the aqueous sample, which led to improvement of the mass transfer of the analytes into the sorbent and reduction of the extraction time. In the screening step, the fractional factorial design was applied for selecting some important parameters which significantly affected the extraction procedure. The effective parameters were then optimized by Box–Behnken design. Under the optimal conditions, the limits of detection were in the range of 0.3–1.6 ng/ml. A good linear range was observed in the range of 1.0–500.0 ng/ml for water and 5.0–500.0 ng/ml for urine and plasma. The intra‐ and inter‐day relative standard deviations were 2.7–3.2 and 1.9–4.5% for five replications, respectively. Based on the results, the proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of warfarin in biological samples, using high‐performance liquid chromatography.
Response to pegylated interferon in a COVID‐19–positive elderly woman with primary myelofibrosis treated with ruxolitinib
Authors: Frankel Arthur E. , Reddy Renuka , DeSuza Kayla R. , Deeb Khaled , Carlin Aaron F. , Smith Davey , Xie Yushuang , Naik Eknath , Silver Richard T. , Hasselbalch Hans C.
Published: March 2021

An 83‐year‐old female had asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection while taking ruxolitinib. She remained RT‐PCR positive for viral RNA for >120 days, and Pegylated interferon for 4 weeks led to viral RNA clearance. The observations support combination therapy of ruxolitinib + interferon for COVID‐19.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis presented with fever of unknown origin: A case study and literature review
Authors: Hakamifard Atousa , Mardani Masoud , Gholipur‐Shahraki Tahereh
Published: March 2021

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare and life‐threatening clinical syndrome, which may present with FUO. The possible diagnosis of HLH must be considered in the differential diagnosis when a patient presents with FUO.
Left internal mammary artery injury and subsequent hypovolemic shock due to a hemothorax after subxiphoid pericardiocentesis in a postoperative cardiac surgery patient
Authors: Oudeman Maurice A. P. , Planken R. Nils , Beijk Marcel A. M.
Published: March 2021

Multimodality imaging is recommended in patients in shock after seemingly uneventful pericardiocentesis. The aim of this study was to heighten awareness that LIMA injury can lead to a life‐threatening hemothorax in postoperative cardiac surgery patients.
An Efficient Oxygen Reduction Catalyst for Zn‐Air Battery: Cobalt Nanoparticles Encapsulated in 3D Nitrogen‐Doped Porous Carbon Networks Derived from Fish Scales
Authors: Sun Jiankang , Qiu Xiaoyu , Wang Zhengyun , Peng Zhuo , Jiang Lipei , Li Guangfang , Wang Haitao , Liu Hongfang
Published: March 2021

The development of a simple and eco‐friendly approach for synthesizing high‐activity and low‐cost electrocatalysts remains a huge challenge for the commercialization of zinc‐air battery technology. Herein, a facile method is demonstrated to skillfully fabricate cobalt nanoparticles encapsulated in N‐doped micro/mesoporous carbon networks (Co/N‐MC) by using natural fish scales as carbon source. The effects of pyrolysis temperature on microstructure, N‐doping and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalytic activity of the obtained Co/N‐MC samples are systematically investigated. The as‐synthesized Co/N‐MC catalyst exhibits better ORR catalytic activity, stability as well as superior Zn‐air battery performance compared with commercial 20 % Pt/C catalyst, owing to its three‐dimensional structures and synergistic effect of N species. The simple and eco‐friendly strategy developed for ORR catalyst in this study holds great potential for the commercial application of zinc‐air batteries.