bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIMULTANEOUS QUANTITATIVE 1H NMR ANALYSIS OF METHANOL, ETHANOL AND THEIR METABOLIC PRODUCTS IN HUMAN PLASMA: EARLY DIANOSIS AND MONITORING DURING TREATMENT OF ACUTE METHANOL POISONING IN VIETNAM
Authors: Thao Ta Thi , Thuc Nguyen Van , Trung Pham Quang , Ngan Nguyen Thi , Phuong Vu Anh , Хунг Ха Тран
Published: February 2021

The 1H-NMR method for simultaneous quantification of methanol, ethanol and their metabolic products (formic acid and acetic acid) in human plasma was established. The effect of protein in plasma sample was removed by 25% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) with the ratio of TCA and plasma sample at 1/5 (v/v). The small amount of D2O (estimated 1/10 v/v) was chosen due to the effect of water signal was eliminated by using the advance water suppression with NOESY pulse sequence. The different analytical parameters such as linearity, precision, accuracy, and specificity, instrument detection limit (IDL) and instrument quantification limit (IQL) were validated. The instrument detection limit of four compounds in blank plasma varied from 0.68 (for methanol) to 2.88 mg/L (for formic acids). The average recoveries of concentration in dynamic ranges were found to be 96 to105%. The good linearity between concentration calculated by integrated signal and measured obtained by calibration curves confirmed that concentration of analytes in plasma can be directly determined from the 1H-NMR signal. The proposed method has been successfully applied for direct determination of five compounds in 9 patient’s plasma samples with the satisfactory results compared to GC/FID method. The analytical procedure can be useful for diagnosis and evaluation of treatment of methanol poisoning in Vietnamese hospitals.
MODIFICATION OF MIXTURES BASED ON ETHYLENEPROPYLENE RUBBER AND SILICON ACID FILLER
Authors: Solovyeva Olga Yu. , Vetoshkin Andrey B. , Gudkov Sergey V. , Nikitina Elena L.
Published: February 2021

The aim of the work was to study the effect of bis-(triethoxysilylpropyl)-tetrasulfide (TESPT) mixed with carbon black N330 in a ratio of 1:1, as a technical product OFS 6945 on the structure and properties of rubber mixtures and rubbers based on ethylene propylene rubber of the brand Vistalon 2504N and silica filler (KKN) of the brand Rosil-175, taken at a dosage of 30 wt. h. per 100 wt.h. rubber. The content of TESPT was 0.035, 0.050 and 0.070 mmol / 100 g of rubber. A group of vulcanizing agents included sulphur, thiuram, captax, zinc oxide and technical stearin. Rubber mixtures were prepared on rollers Lb 320 160/160. Organosilane was injected into rubber at the same time as Rosil-175. The homogeneity of the filler distribution in the finished mixtures was evaluated based on the results of testing samples on the RPA-2000 vibrorheometer. Vulcanization characteristics were determined using an MDR-2000 device. The structure of mixtures and rubbers was studied by the method of equal swelling of samples in toluene. It is shown that with the increasing content of TESPT, the proportion of bound rubber in a three-component mixture of the rubber – filler – organosilane increases due to the formation of interfacial connections. The uniformity of distribution of silica fillers in rubber matrix also increases. Workability of the mixtures on roller equipment improves. The rate of cross-linking in the core period and the degree of cross-linking of macromolecules at the same time curing increase as well. As a result, the elastic-strength properties of rubbers determined in the static test mode are improved, the best complex of which is provided with an organosilane content of 0.050 mmol/100 g of rubber.
Is digital crime victimization increasing in Iceland – may the Me-too movement influence how victimization is experienced
Authors: Gunnlaugsson Helgi , Jónasson Jónas Orri
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe first Icelandic study of digital crime victimization was conducted in 2016. According to the results, approximately 13 % of respondents reported digital victimization during the three years prior to the survey. Slander and consumer fraud were the most common types of victimization. Respondents between the ages of 30 to 44 were most likely to have been victimized. In 2018, the survey was repeated using the same questionnaire. As before, the survey was conducted online in cooperation with the Social Sciences Research Institute and solicited information from a sample of circa 2,000 respondents representative of the Icelandic population ages 18 years and older. Approximately 20 % reported a digital victimization in 2018. This suggests a significant increase in victimization since 2016. The increase was most notable in regards to the sexual harassment of women. It is contended that the MeToo Movement of 2017 may have had an impact on the experiences reported by women in 2018.AbstractDen første islandske undersøgelse, der fokuserede på kriminel krænkelse over internettet, blev udført i 2016. Ifølge resultaterne rapporterede ca. 13 % af respondenterne, at de inden for de seneste tre år forud for undersøgelsen havde været udsat for krænkelse over internettet. De mest almindelige former for krænklse var bagtalelse og forbrugerbedrageri. Respondenter i aldersgruppen 30-44 år viste sig at være mest udsatte. Undersøgelsen blev gentaget i 2018, med anvendelse af det samme skema som i 2016. Undersøgelsen blev også denne gang foretaget over nettet i samarbejde med centret for socialvidenskabelig forskning og udsendt til ca. 2000 deltagere, der afspejlede den islandske befolkning over 18 år. Ser vi en øgning i kriminel forulempelse over nettet? Ser vi andre former for forulempelse end i 2016? Har Me-Too bevægelse i Island haft nogen indflydelse på ofrenes oplevelse af at være krænket?
Udlicitering af politiets opgaver i Danmark og Sverige
Authors: Volquartzen Mette
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe growth in the private security industry alongside a persistent separation of policing from the state is a well-documented Western phenomenon. Yet in Denmark, the police still claim a monopoly over matters of security and the exercise of public authority. This is partly because they operate in a society with a strong cultural aversion to the privatisation of police tasks. Despite this traditional cultural antipathy, privatisation may nevertheless become a future scenario in Denmark due to changes in social attitudes in general and to internal crises within the police. This article presents and analyses these developments and considers the legal implications of privatising certain police tasks in Denmark. Building on this analysis, it draws conclusions about the potential avoidance of state liability through outsourcing. The paper draws comparisons with Sweden, a similar state in political, cultural and legal respects, which began delegating police tasks to private security companies almost fifty years ago, including those that involve the use of physical force.
Det allmänna rättsmedvetandet och några svenska förarbeten på straffrättens område 2008-2018
Authors: Anderberg Andreas
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis article focuses on what is often termed the general (or public) sense of justice, GSJ for short. It illustrates the influence that the GSJ has had on various preparatory works in Swedish criminal law during a recent decade. It is often claimed that the GSJ is used as an argument in political discourse and decision making in the area of criminal law, especially to motivate criminalisation and harsher penal sanctions. Political points can be scored and general elections won by deploying a tough stance on crime. A problematic aspect is that by  appealing to the GSJ, legislators create a way to legitimise punitive measures with little or no empirical support in criminological research. Furthermore, the very concept of the GSJ is unclear, contentious, and characterised by a plethora of interpretations. This article provides background on the GSJ in the Nordic countries and thereby gives context to some recent legislative work in Sweden. The article concludes that legislators frequently reproduce phrases which, under closer inspection, appear quite hollow. The GSJ therefore seems to be more of a vague reference used for political purposes as opposed to a representation of actual popular values.
Évolution du rapport à l’Autre chez les étudiant·e·s en ergothérapie et en travail social : variables prédictives des orientations d’acculturation de la communauté d’accueil
Authors: Tétreault Sylvie , Bétrisey Carine , Brisset Camille , Gulfi Alida , Leanza Yvan , Kühne Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Autant en France qu’en Suisse, les professionnel·le·s sont amené·e·s à travailler auprès de populations diversifiées (âge, niveau socioéconomique, langue, ethnie, état de santé, etc.). Plusieurs recherches soutiennent que la sensibilité interculturelle est liée aux caractéristiques psychologiques. Une étude longitudinale (2016-2019) a été menée auprès de 202 étudiant·e·s en ergothérapie et en travail social de France et de Suisse. Ceux-ci ont rempli un questionnaire sur les orientations d’acculturation de la communauté d’accueil, l’attachement adulte et la personnalité multiculturelle, en première et en troisième année de formation. Peu de différences significatives apparaissent entre les deux temps de mesure. Les analyses de régression mettent en évidence des variables psychologiques à considérer dans le type de rapport à l’Autre, soit l’ouverture d’esprit, la gestion de l’anxiété, l’empathie culturelle, la flexibilité et les expériences interculturelles significatives vécues.
Prospects for the development of Cuba-Russia relations after Fidel Castro’s era
Authors: Terentev Pavel , Vlasova Yulia
Published: February 2021

This article is dedicated to analysis of the development prospects of Cuba-Russia relations after Fidel Castro’s rule. The goal consists in examination of the current state of bilateral relations between the countries, as well as in determination of major obstacles towards their reconciliation. The researchers outline most probable scenarios for the development of future foreign policy course of Cuba, and analyze the current state of bilateral Cuba-Russia diplomatic relations, economic and scientific-cultural cooperation. The article employs a wide range of sources that include the works of Russian and foreign experts, as well as reports, statistical and analytical data provided by various international and national institutions. Analysis is conducted on the news reports provided by Russian, US, European, Chinese, Latin American and other news agencies. The scientific novelty of this article consists in placing emphasis on the extremely weak economic framework for further advancement of bilateral Cuba-Russia relations, as well as possible threat to Russia's national interests in case of Cuba becomes a junior partner of the United States, People’s Republic of China, or the European Union. The acquired results allow concluding that the future of Cuba-Russian relations directly depends on strengthening of the economic base of their cooperation. Otherwise, Russia would be dislodged from the island, while other powers would become the so-called senior partner of the Cuban Republic.
Ukraine within the European security system: problems and prospects
Authors: Babenko Oksana Vasil'evna , Babenko Vasilii Nikolaevich
Published: February 2021

This article explores the problems of Ukraine's integration into the European security system. Special attention is given to the questions of cooperation with the European Union, NATO and the OSCE that play an important role in promotion of security in the European continent. Emphasis is made on the analysis of the Ukrainian normative legal framework responsible for inclusion of Ukraine into the core structures of European security. Since 1991 to the present, all presidents of post-Soviet Ukraine from L. Kravchuk to V. Zelensky contributed considerably to the country’s integration into the European security system. With the development of relations with NATO, EU and OSCE, Ukraine sought to cooperate with the Eastern European countries within the framework of the key institutions of European security. Ukraine’s relations with certain Balkan states have experienced intense contradictions, for example dispute over the plan to liquidate Bolhradsky district in Odessa Region that was predominantly populated by ethnic Bulgarians. Since 2004, the territorial dispute between Ukraine and Romania pertaining to delimitation of continental shelf around the Snake Island has not been fully settled. The conflict between the two countries also aggravated due to the policy of reducing the Romanian-language educational establishments in Ukraine. Ukraine’s inclusion into the key structures of the European security is also impeded by Donbass armed conflict, the fact that the government of Ukraine does not recognize the Republic of Crimea's claim to sovereignty, as well as regularization of relations with the Russian Federation. The acquired results allow determining the motives underlying the foreign policy course of Ukraine that is aimed at its accession to the European Union and NATO, as well as the attempts to take its place within the European security system.
Enhancing mitochondrial activity in neurons protects against neurodegeneration in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rosenkranz Sina C , Shaposhnykov Artem A , Träger Simone , Engler Jan Broder , Witte Maarten E , Roth Vanessa , Vieira Vanessa , Paauw Nanne , Bauer Simone , Schwencke-Westphal Celina , Schubert Charlotte , Bal Lukas Can , Schattling Benjamin , Pless Ole , van Horssen Jack , Freichel Marc , Friese Manuel A
Published: February 2021

While transcripts of neuronal mitochondrial genes are strongly suppressed in central nervous system inflammation, it is unknown whether this results in mitochondrial dysfunction and whether an increase of mitochondrial function can rescue neurodegeneration. Here, we show that predominantly genes of the electron transport chain are suppressed in inflamed mouse neurons, resulting in impaired mitochondrial complex IV activity. This was associated with post-translational inactivation of the transcriptional co-regulator proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α). In mice, neuronal overexpression of Ppargc1a, which encodes for PGC-1α, led to increased numbers of mitochondria, complex IV activity, and maximum respiratory capacity. Moreover, Ppargc1a-overexpressing neurons showed a higher mitochondrial membrane potential that related to an improved calcium buffering capacity. Accordingly, neuronal deletion of Ppargc1a aggravated neurodegeneration during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, while neuronal overexpression of Ppargc1a ameliorated it. Our study provides systemic insights into mitochondrial dysfunction in neurons during inflammation and commends elevation of mitochondrial activity as a promising neuroprotective strategy.
Transsynaptic mapping of Drosophila mushroom body output neurons
Authors: Scaplen Kristin M , Talay Mustafa , Fisher John D , Cohn Raphael , Sorkaç Altar , Aso Yoshi , Barnea Gilad , Kaun Karla R
Published: February 2021

The mushroom body (MB) is a well-characterized associative memory structure within the Drosophila brain. Analyzing MB connectivity using multiple approaches is critical for understanding the functional implications of this structure. Using the genetic anterograde transsynaptic tracing tool, trans-Tango, we identified divergent projections across the brain and convergent downstream targets of the MB output neurons (MBONs). Our analysis revealed at least three separate targets that receive convergent input from MBONs: other MBONs, the fan-shaped body (FSB), and the lateral accessory lobe (LAL). We describe, both anatomically and functionally, a multilayer circuit in which inhibitory and excitatory MBONs converge on the same genetic subset of FSB and LAL neurons. This circuit architecture enables the brain to update and integrate information with previous experience before executing appropriate behavioral responses. Our use of trans-Tango provides a genetically accessible anatomical framework for investigating the functional relevance of components within these complex and interconnected circuits.
Numerical behavior of NVIDIA tensor cores
Authors: Fasi Massimiliano , Higham Nicholas J. , Mikaitis Mantas , Pranesh Srikara
Published: February 2021

We explore the floating-point arithmetic implemented in the NVIDIA tensor cores, which are hardware accelerators for mixed-precision matrix multiplication available on the Volta, Turing, and Ampere microarchitectures. Using Volta V100, Turing T4, and Ampere A100 graphics cards, we determine what precision is used for the intermediate results, whether subnormal numbers are supported, what rounding mode is used, in which order the operations underlying the matrix multiplication are performed, and whether partial sums are normalized. These aspects are not documented by NVIDIA, and we gain insight by running carefully designed numerical experiments on these hardware units. Knowing the answers to these questions is important if one wishes to: (1) accurately simulate NVIDIA tensor cores on conventional hardware; (2) understand the differences between results produced by code that utilizes tensor cores and code that uses only IEEE 754-compliant arithmetic operations; and (3) build custom hardware whose behavior matches that of NVIDIA tensor cores. As part of this work we provide a test suite that can be easily adapted to test newer versions of the NVIDIA tensor cores as well as similar accelerators from other vendors, as they become available. Moreover, we identify a non-monotonicity issue affecting floating point multi-operand adders if the intermediate results are not normalized after each step.
Characterization and complete genome sequence of Privateer, a highly prolate Proteus mirabilis podophage
Authors: Corban James E. , Ramsey Jolene
Published: February 2021

The Gram-negative bacterium Proteus mirabilis causes a large proportion of catheter-associated urinary tract infections, which are among the world’s most common nosocomial infections. Here, we characterize P. mirabilis bacteriophage Privateer, a prolate podophage of the C3 morphotype isolated from Texas wastewater treatment plant activated sludge. Basic characterization assays demonstrated Privateer has a latent period of ~40 min and average burst size around 140. In the 90.7 kb Privateer genome, 43 functions were assigned for the 144 predicted protein-coding genes. Genes encoding DNA replication proteins, DNA modification proteins, four tRNAs, lysis proteins, and structural proteins were identified. Cesium-gradient purified Privateer particles analyzed via LC-MS/MS verified the presence of several predicted structural proteins, including a longer, minor capsid protein apparently produced by translational frameshift. Comparative analysis demonstrated Privateer shares 83% nucleotide similarity with Cronobacter phage vB_CsaP_009, but low nucleotide similarity with other known phages. Predicted structural proteins in Privateer appear to have evolutionary relationships with other prolate podophages, in particular the Kuraviruses
Investigating the Recovery Properties of Auditory Nerve Fibres at Different Cochlear Regions using Electrically Evoked Compound Action Potential
Authors: Umashankar Abishek , Jayachandran Deepika
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Investigating the recovery function and refractory properties of auditory nerve is essential for us to understand the physiology at neural level, not many tools are available to carry out research in humans. Electrically Evoked Compound Action Potential (ECAP) helps us to record the action potential and also provides us with an option of varying the Interpulse Interval (IPI), hence there is a need to carry out research in Cochlear Implant (CI) users with the help of ECAP. Aim: To investigate the refractory property of the neurons and the response characteristics at different cochlear regions. Materials and Methods: Fifty CI users from age 3-10 years with a minimum hearing experience of three months underwent ECAP measures at various IPI. The data were further statistically analysed using SPSS software version 20.0, descriptive and inferential statistics were carried out using ANOVA. Results: It was found that a high ECAP threshold (648 cu) could be found at the basal region of cochlea when compared to medial (658 cu) and apical region (785 cu) at 300 μs and similar higher thresholds at different IPI, thus attributing to the fact that with increase in population of nerve fibres, a better threshold could be achieved. Another finding revealed that with very low IPI, the ECAP thresholds were elevated, with neural recruitment being a contributing factor. Conclusion: There was a difference in neural population amongst individuals, even with better auditory performance. ECAP is one of the objective tool to measure neural function and outcomes in CI individuals.
Review of SARS-CoV-2 and Conjunctivitis: Ophthalmologists Be Safe
Authors: Sune Mona P , Sune Pradeep , Kalode Vishal
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 or the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become pandemic with its origin in Wuhan, city of China. Within few weeks, it became a global health threat involving more than 200 countries. Though the main route of transmission is by respiratory droplets; trans-conjunctival aerosol infection is a known mode of disease transmission. Patients with COVID-19 conjunctivitis have the transmissible virus in the tears. Close contact during ophthalmic procedures poses the risk of patient to ophthalmologist disease transmission. Conjunctivitis may be the first symptom of COVID-19. In context to this and the close proximity of an ophthalmologist and Health Care Workers (HCW) with the patient, and the nature of work, standard infection protection measures guidelines have been given by prominent healthcare societies.
Diagnosis of Melanoma Based on the Sparse Auto-Encoder for Feature Extraction
Authors: Zghal Nadia Smaoui , Zaabi Marwa , Derbel Houda
Published: February 2021

Aims: Skin cancer is a fairly critical disease all over the world and especially in Western countries and America. However, if it is perceived and treated early, it is quite often curable. The main risk factors for melanoma are exposure to UV rays, the presence of many moles, and heredity. For this reason, this work focuses on the issue of automatic diagnosis of melanoma. The aim is to extract significant features from pixels of the images based on an unsupervised deep learning technique which is the sparse autoencoder method.

Methodology: A preprocessing phase is required to remove the artifacts and enhance the contrast of the images before proceeding with the feature extraction. Once the characteristics are extracted automatically, the support vector machine classifier and the k-nearest neighbors are applied for the classification phase. The objective is to differentiate between 3 categories: melanoma, suspected case, and non-melanoma. Finally, the PH2 database is used to test the proposed approaches (200 images are presented in this dataset: 80 atypical nevi, 80 common nevi, and 40 melanoma).

Results: The obtained results in terms of specificity, accuracy, and sensitivity present noticeable performances with the support vector machine classifier (achieved 94 % overall accuracy) and the k-nearest neighbors (92 %).

Conclusion: This study's experimental findings showed that the best performance was obtained by the approach based on a deep sparse autoencoder combined with support vector machine.
Effects of Different Water Management and Fertilizer Applications on CO2 Fluxes from a Selected Myanmar Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivar
Authors: Min Saw , Rulik Martin
Published: February 2021

The application of nitrogen fertilizer and the water management practices are important to optimize potential yields in rice cultivation. Moreover, they may affect the emissions patterns of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. Compared to methane, knowledge about the combined effects of different fertilizer rates together with different water management practices on CO2 fluxes are scarce. Therefore, this study aims to assess CO2 fluxes of a selected rice cultivar in response to different fertilizer applications and water management practices. The treatments included two different applications of inorganic fertilizer (recommended rate and farmer’s practice), organic manure application and water management practices; continuous flooding (CF) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD). Mean total CO2 flux in CF was -30.82 g CO2 m-2 d-1 during daytime and 29.64 g CO2 m-2 d-1 during nighttime. Surprisingly, the average net CO2 fluxes were negative under both CF (-49 mg CO2 m-2h-1) and AWD practices (-127 mg CO2 m-2h-1), indicating a net CO2 uptake by the rice plants. Inorganic fertilizer applications led to considerably higher net CO2 emissions compared to the control under both CF and AWD. Conversely, CO2 emission fluxes in the treatment with organic manure showed negative net CO2 fluxes under both water management practices and while revealing the same fresh biomass as observed in other treatments (inorganic fertilizer and control). Taken together, modifications of current cultivation systems toward using organic manure, that emit less CO2, could effectively mitigate CO2 impacts regardless of the selected water management practice.
Antiplasmodial Activity of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf in Swiss Albino Mice Infected with Plasmodium berghei NK 65
Authors: Dada E. O. , Adebayo R. O.
Published: February 2021

The study assessed the antiplasmodial activity of the ethanolic leaf extract of Cymbopogon citratus on chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei in mice. Standard methods were used to determine the bioactive components of the leaf extract, acute toxicity test and antiplasmodial activity.  Mice obtained (of body weight 20-25 g) were housed and acclimatized for seven days at room temperature before the commencement of the experiment. A total of 16 albino mice were randomized into four groups of four mice each for acute toxicity while 35 were grouped into five groups of seven mice each for antiplasmodial activity. All the groups 1-5 were infected with P. berghei and were treated for six consecutive days with leaf extract dosage of 200, 400 and        800 mg/kg, standard antimalarial drug (chloroquine) as positive control and normal saline as negative control respectively.

Phytochemical screening/ bioactive compounds of the leaf extract reveals the presence of saponins (10.3 mg/g), tannins (2.38 mg/g), flavonoids (1.87 mg/g), terpenoids (19.12 mg/g), steroids (6.21 mg/g) and glycosides (19.9 mg/g) as secondary metabolites. The leaf extract revealed decrease in body weight of the infected mice and did not show any toxicity at all dosage levels used.

The antiplasmodial investigation revealed a decrease in percentage parasitaemia level in mice of extract treated groups compared with mice infected and not treated. The parasitaemia reduction was higher in 800 mg/kg than 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg. This significant decrease (P<0.05) in percentage parasitaemia level in the study was dose and time-dependent. The extract showed significant (p<0.05) antiplasmodial activity and could serve as possible candidates for the development of new effective drugs for the treatment of malaria.
Identification of a unique endoplasmic retention motif in the Xenopus GIRK5 channel and its contribution to oocyte maturation
Authors: Rangel‐Garcia Claudia I. , Salvador Carolina , Chavez‐Garcia Karla , Diaz‐Bello Beatriz , Lopez‐Gonzalez Zinaeli , Vazquez‐Cruz Lourdes , Angel Vazquez‐Martinez Julio , Ortiz‐Navarrete Vianney , Riveros‐Rosas Hector , Escobar Laura I.
Published: February 2021

G protein‐activated inward‐rectifying potassium (K+) channels (Kir3/GIRK) participate in cell excitability. The GIRK5 channel is present in Xenopus laevis oocytes. In an attempt to investigate the physiological role of GIRK5, we identified a noncanonical di‐arginine endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention motif (KRXY). This retention motif is located at the N‐terminal region of GIRK5, coded by two small exons found only in X. laevis and X. tropicalis. These novel exons are expressed through use of an alternative transcription start site. Mutations in the sequence KRXY produced functional channels and induced progesterone‐independent oocyte meiotic progression. The chimeric proteins enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)‐GIRK5‐WT and the EGFP‐GIRK5K13AR14A double mutant, were localized to the ER and the plasma membrane of the vegetal pole of the oocyte, respectively. Silencing of GIRK5 or blocking of this channel by external barium prevented progesterone‐induced meiotic progression. The endogenous level of GIRK5 protein decreased through oocyte stages in prophase I augmenting by progesterone. In conclusion, we have identified a unique mechanism by which the expression pattern of a K+ channel evolved to control Xenopus oocyte maturation.
3D Printed Metamaterial Capacitive Sensing Array for Universal Jamming Gripper and Human Joint Wearables
Authors: Loh Leon Yeong Wei , Gupta Ujjaval , Wang Yingxi , Foo Choon Chiang , Zhu Jian , Lu Wen Feng
Published: February 2021

Existing stretchable capacitive sensor arrays face challenges in decoupling normal forces and stretch stimuli which restrict its applications into soft robotics. Herein, a metamaterial capacitive sensor array with 6 × 6 sensors is developed for the detection of normal forces on curved deforming surfaces common to both the soft universal jamming gripper and human elbow. The fabrication process involves the 3D printing of carbon black thermoplastic polyurethane (PI–ETPU) electrodes and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) insulation based on commercially available multimaterial fused deposition modeling (FDM). This metamaterial capacitive sensor array is unaffected by a uniaxial stretch of up to 21.6% and remains capable of detecting normal forces. The sensor array structure possesses a negative Poisson's ratio which is desirable for improving compliance and conformability to adhered expanding surfaces. Consequently, normal force‐distribution and proximity detection capabilities on curved deforming surfaces are demonstrated on a soft universal jamming gripper for measuring gripping forces and identifying object shapes. Conformal force‐sensing joint wearable on a human elbow with an individualized Poisson's ratio is explored as another application. The possibility of programming Poisson's ratio of a metamaterial capacitive sensing array opens new avenues for potential sensing applications into soft robotics and personalized wearables.
New Strategy to Improve the Mechanical Properties in Cast Al–Mg–Fe Alloys by the Formation of Al–AlFe Eutectic
Authors: Zhou Pengfei , Wang Dongtao , Liu Shichao , Wang Rui , Zhang Haitao , Li Xinzhong , Nagaumi Hiromi
Published: February 2021

Fe‐containing intermetallics are often detrimental to the mechanical properties in aluminum alloy. However, an Al–Fe alloy system can form an Al + AlFe eutectic structure in a narrow freezing range, providing the fine Al13Fe4 or Al6Fe intermetallics. Herein, the ternary Al–Mg–Fe alloy is selected to achieve the Al + AlFe eutectic structure composition and form fine AlFe intermetallics for improving the strength and ductility of Al–Mg cast alloy. The results show that as the composition of Al–Mg–Fe alloy is closer to the Al + AlFe eutectic composition, the amount of coarse Al13Fe4 intermetallics decreases, whereas the amount of fine Al + Al13Fe4 eutectic increases. The microstructural evolution results in the improvement of yield strength (72.8–92.4 MPa), tensile strength (126.1–213.7 MPa), and the elongation (2.5–6.2%). This work provides a new strategy to improve the mechanical properties in Al–Mg cast alloy.
Optimization of Composition with Reduced Phase Impurity in Quasi‐2D Perovskite for Electroluminescence
Authors: Laxmi  , Kabra Dinesh
Published: February 2021

Quasi‐2D‐layered perovskites have more exotic optical properties than their 3D halide perovskites congener, such as prominent excitonic features, higher photoluminescence (PL) yield, and composition‐induced energy transfer among different phases. However, there are known challenges in quasi‐2D perovskite where by default one gets a mixture of various phases (n = 1, 2, 3….3D) in one composition. Energy transfer processes occur among various phases, and optimization is needed to ensure one can get the best optical properties by targeting optimal phase purity. Herein, a detailed analysis of structural and optical properties of different perovskites (2D perovskite, quasi‐2D perovskite, and 3D perovskite) of (PEA)2(FAPbBr3)n−1PbBr4 series is done. The n = 3 composition with the least phase impurity is prepared, which provides a higher PL emission intensity than members of this series. Hence, the n = 3 composition (emissive layer) based perovskite light‐emitting diode (PeLED) is fabricated. Poly(9‐vinyl carbazole) (PVK) as an additional hole‐injection layer with poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) helps to suppress (1) the leakage current (effective blocking of electrons) and (2) the non‐radiative channels at the interface. Optimized thickness of emissive layer in PeLED (100 nm) gives a luminance efficiency of 15.4 cd A−1 and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 4.32%.
Inter‐Element Boration Reactions of Carbon‐Carbon Multiple Bonds via Lewis‐Basic Activation of Boron Reagents
Authors: Hirano Keiichi , Uchiyama Masanobu
Published: February 2021

Here, we review recent progress in transition‐metal‐free inter‐element boration reactions via Lewis‐basic activation of various boron reagents, focusing mainly on the boration reactions of carbon‐carbon multiple bonds without an electron‐withdrawing (activating) group and those with an electron‐withdrawing group where the polarity of the addition reaction is inverse to the “natural” reactivity.

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The Razor's Edge of “Essential” Labor in Food and Agriculture
Authors: Malone Trey , Schaefer K. Aleks , Wu Felicia
Published: February 2021

In the midst of a pandemic, falling on one side or the other of the cruel “razor's edge” of the “essential” and “nonessential” labor distinction can mean the difference between infection versus safety and, on the other hand, continued earnings versus unemployment. This article synthesizes relevant research from a variety of disciplines to explore the implications of the essentiality distinction as a “second‐best” policy instrument. We identify ways to improve the equity and efficiency of the distinction as a second‐best policy tool and consider potential ways to look beyond essentialness for future economic policy responses to pandemics.
Efficacy of delayed primary closure with intrawound continuous negative pressure and irrigation treatment after surgery for colorectal perforation
Authors: Ogawa Katsuhiro , Nitta Hidetoshi , Masuda Toshiro , Matsumoto Katsutaka , Okino Tetsuya , Miyamoto Yuji , Baba Hideo , Takamori Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

Aim

Surgical‐site infections (SSIs) often occur after surgery for colorectal perforation. We introduced delayed primary closure (DPC) after intrawound continuous negative pressure and irrigation treatment (IW‐CONPIT) to prevent SSIs. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of DPC after IW‐CONPIT compared with primary closure (PC) after surgery for colorectal perforation.

Methods

We undertook a retrospective study including 22 patients who underwent DPC (DPC group) and 18 patients who underwent PC (PC group) at our hospital between April 2015 and January 2017. The primary outcome was the SSI rate. The secondary outcomes were other complications (<30 days), length of hospital stay, and costs.

Results

The SSI rate was significantly lower in the DPC group than in the PC group (40% vs. 94%, P = 0.0006). Moreover, superficial and deep incisional SSIs, infectious complications, and Clavien–Dindo classification grade ≥ 2 complications were also significantly diminished in the DPC group. Conversely, the length of hospital stay and costs were not significantly different between the two groups. Multivariate analyses revealed that the significant independent protective factor against SSI after surgery for colorectal perforation was DPC after IW‐CONPIT (odds ratio 0.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.002–0.25).

Conclusion

Delayed primary closure after IW‐CONPIT reduced SSIs after surgery for colorectal perforation compared with PC.
Unveiling the Photoinduced Electron‐Donating Character of MoS2 in Covalently Linked Hybrids Featuring Perylenediimide
Authors: Sideri Ioanna K. , Jang Youngwoo , Garcés‐Garcés Jose , Sastre‐Santos Ángela , Canton‐Vitoria Ruben , Kitaura Ryo , Fernández‐Lázaro Fernando , D'Souza Francis , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: February 2021

The covalent functionalization of MoS2 with a perylenediimide (PDI) is reported and the study is accompanied by detailed characterization of the newly prepared MoS2‐PDI hybrid material. Covalently functionalized MoS2 interfacing organic photoactive species has shown electron and/or energy accepting, energy reflecting or bi‐directional electron accepting features. Herein, a rationally designed PDI, unsubstituted at the perylene core to act as electron acceptor, forces MoS2 to fully demonstrate for the first time its electron donor capabilities. The photophysical response of MoS2‐PDI is visualized in an energy‐level diagram, while femtosecond transient absorption studies disclose the formation of MoS2.+‐PDI.− charge separated state. The tunable electronic properties of MoS2, as a result of covalently linking photoactive organic species with precise characteristics, unlock their potentiality and enable their application in light‐harvesting and optoelectronic devices.
B‐Cu‐Zn‐Gasdiffusionselektroden für die elektrokatalytische CO2‐Reduktion zu C2+‐Produkten bei hohen Stromdichten
Authors: Song Yanfang , Junqueira João R. C. , Sikdar Nivedita , Öhl Denis , Dieckhöfer Stefan , Quast Thomas , Seisel Sabine , Masa Justus , Andronescu Corina , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2021

Die Elektroreduktion von CO2 zu Multi‐Kohlenstoff‐Produkten hat große Aufmerksamkeit auf sich gezogen, da sie einen Weg zur Speicherung erneuerbarer Energien mit hoher Stromdichte bietet. Allerdings wird über Selektivität und Stabilität bei hohen Stromdichten selten berichtet. Wir zeigen, dass B‐dotierte Cu‐ (B‐Cu‐) und B‐Cu‐Zn‐Gasdiffusionselektroden (GDE) eine hochselektive und stabile CO2‐Umwandlung zu C2+‐Produkten bei industriell relevanten Stromdichten aufweisen. Die B‐Cu‐GDE zeigte eine hohe Faraday‐Effizienz von 79 % für die Bildung von C2+‐Produkten bei einer Stromdichte von −200 mA cm−2 und einem Potential von −0,45 V vs. RHE. Die Langzeitstabilität für die C2+‐Bildung wurde durch die Integration einer optimierten Menge an Zn‐Nanoblättchen wesentlich verbessert. Operando‐Raman‐Spektren bestätigen das Vorhandensein von Cu+‐Spezies unter CO2‐Reduktionsbedingungen und das geringere Überpotential für die *OCO‐Bildung bei Integration von Zn, was zu der exzellenten Umwandlung von CO2 zu C2+‐Produkten an B‐Cu‐Zn‐GDEs führt.
Licht‐vermittelte intermolekulare Kupplung von Alkenen mit Ketonen über Acyloxy‐Nitroso‐Verbindungen
Authors: Zheng Danqing , Plöger Stefanie , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Studer Armido
Published: February 2021

Eine durch sichtbares Licht vermittelte, atomökonomische, intermolekulare Radikal‐Additionsreaktion von Acyloxy‐Nitroso‐Verbindungen an elektronenarme Alkene wird beschrieben. Die Nitroso‐Ausgangsderivate lassen sich leicht durch Oxidation der entsprechenden Keton‐abgeleiteten Oxime herstellen, und die gesamte Sequenz stellt eine oxidative Kupplung eines Ketons mit einem Michael‐Akzeptor dar. Die Kaskade läuft unter milden Bedingungen ab und liefert eine Reihe von wertvoll funktionalisierten Oximen in moderaten bis guten Ausbeuten. Mechanistische Studien deuten darauf hin, dass diese Kaskaden über Additions‐/Kupplungsprozesse ablaufen, die durch den “Persistent Radical Effect” (PRE) kontrolliert werden, wobei das NO‐Radikal als persistente Spezies agiert.
Cell‐Based Identification of New IDO1 Modulator Chemotypes
Authors: Hennes Elisabeth , Lampe Philipp , Dötsch Lara , Bruning Nora , Pulvermacher Lisa‐Marie , Sievers Sonja , Ziegler Slava , Waldmann Herbert
Published: February 2021

The immunoregulatory enzyme indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO1) strengthens cancer immune escape, and inhibition of IDO1 by means of new chemotypes and mechanisms of action is considered a promising opportunity for IDO1 inhibitor discovery. IDO1 is a cofactor‐binding, redox‐sensitive protein, which calls for monitoring of IDO1 activity in its native cellular environment. We developed a new, robust fluorescence‐based assay amenable to high throughput, which detects kynurenine in cells. Screening of a ca. 150 000‐member compound library discovered unprecedented, potent IDO1 modulators with different mechanisms of action, including direct IDO1 inhibitors, regulators of IDO1 expression, and inhibitors of heme synthesis. Three IDO1‐modulator chemotypes were identified that bind to apo‐IDO1 and compete with the heme cofactor. Our new cell‐based technology opens up novel opportunities for medicinal chemistry programs in immuno‐oncology.
Implantable Biosupercapacitor Inspired by the Cellular Redox System
Authors: Jang Yongwoo , Park Taegyu , Kim Eunyoung , Park Jong Woo , Lee Dong Yeop , Kim Seon Jeong
Published: February 2021

The carbon nanotube (CNT) yarn supercapacitor has high potential for in vivo energy storage because it can be used in aqueous environments and stitched to inner parts of the body, such as blood vessels. The biocompatibility issue for frequently used pseudocapacitive materials, such as metal oxides, is controversial in the human body. Here, we report an implantable CNT yarn supercapacitor inspired by the cellular redox system. In all living cells, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a key redox biomolecule responsible for cellular energy transduction to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Based on this redox system, CNT yarn electrodes were fabricated by inserting a twist in CNT sheets with electrochemically deposited NAD and benzoquinone for redox shuttling. Consequently, the NAD/BQ/CNT yarn electrodes exhibited the maximum area capacitance (55.73 mF cm−2) under physiological conditions, such as phosphate‐buffered saline and serum. In addition, the yarn electrodes showed a negligible loss of capacitance after 10 000 repeated charge/discharge cycles and deformation tests (bending/knotting). More importantly, NAD/BQ/CNT yarn electrodes implanted into the abdominal cavity of a rat's skin exhibited the stable in vivo electrical performance of a supercapacitor. Therefore, these findings demonstrate a redox biomolecule‐applied platform for implantable energy storage devices.
Crystal exploring, Hirshfeld surface analysis, and properties of 4′‐(furan‐2‐yl)‐2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine complexes of nickel (II): New precursors for the synthesis of nanoparticles
Authors: Momeni Badri Zaman , Anari Sanaz Kazemzade , Torrei Maryam , Janczak Jan
Published: February 2021

A series of mono‐ and bis‐terpyridine complexes of nickel (II) based on the 4′‐(furan‐2‐yl)‐2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine (ftpy) have been synthesized and structurally characterized using elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The reaction of NiCl2•6H2O with ftpy has been resulted in the formation of new bis‐terpyridine complex [Ni (ftpy)2](PF6)•2H2O (1). The new complex [Ni (ftpy)2](PF6)2 (2), obtained during the crystallization of 1 in methanol, was characterized using X‐ray crystallography, which shows that six nitrogen atoms from terpyridine ligands occupy the coordination sites around the Ni (II) in a distorted octahedral geometry. On the other hand, the reaction of NiCl2•6H2O with ftpy in a 1:2 or 1:1 mole ratio in methanol in the presence of KSCN affords two new thiocyanato complexes [Ni (ftpy)2](SCN)2•2H2O (3) and [Ni (ftpy)(NCS)2(H2O)]•2H2O (4), respectively. The crystal structure of 3 reveals that nickel (II) is hexa‐coordinated in a distorted octahedral geometry NiN6 involving six atoms of two ftpy ligand; the ftpy ligands are perpendicular to each other. The new complex [Ni (ftpy)(NCS)2(DMSO)]•DMSO (5) is obtained during the crystallization of 4 in DMSO. The crystal structure of 5 reveals that the nickel (II) is hexa‐coordinated by three nitrogen atoms of ftpy, two NCS−, a DMSO in a slightly distorted octahedral geometry. The X–H (XH, C, N, O) bond interactions control the arrangement of the supramolecular 3D framework. Hirshfeld surface analyses and two‐dimensional fingerprint plot reveal that the main interactions are H–H contacts for 2, 3, and 5, which comprise 34.1%, 37.2%, and 34.6%, respectively. Thermal decomposition of the coordination complexes led to the formation of Ni, NiO, and Ni2P2O7 nanoparticles (NPs). The resulting NPs were fully characterized by powder XRD, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). The formation of these NPs indicates the role of the precursor complexes and counterion. Our results indicate that the NPs with the smaller size could be obtained at calcination temperature of 600 °C. Thermal and luminescent properties of complexes have been discussed in detail.
Effects of halogen ligands of complexes supported by bis(methylthioether)pyridine on catalytic activities for electrochemical and photochemical driven hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Chun‐Li , Yang Hao , Du Juan , Zhan Shu‐Zhong
Published: February 2021

Reactions of bis(methylthioether)pyridine (btep) with CuX2 (X = Br and Cl) form two new complexes, [Cu(btep)Br2] and [Cu(btep)Cl2], respectively, which have been determined by X‐ray crystallography. Both of them can serve as catalysts for electrochemical and photochemical driven hydrogen evolution. Under an overpotential (OP) of 837.6 mV, [Cu(btep)Br2] or [Cu(btep)Cl2] can electrocatalyze hydrogen evolution from a neutral water with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 373 and 120 mol of hydrogen per mole of catalyst per hour (mol H2/mol catalyst/h), respectively. Under blue light, mixing with CdS nanorods (CdS NRs) as a photosensitizer, and ascorbic acid (H2A) as a sacrificial electron donor, the photolysis of an aqueous solution (pH 4.5) with [Cu(btep)Br2] or [Cu(btep)Cl2] can provide 6180 and 5120 mol of H2 per mole of catalyst (mol of H2 (mol of cat)−1) during 48‐h irradiation with an average apparent quantum yield of 16.7% and 11.0%, respectively. The results show that [Cu(btep)Br2] shows a more efficient activity for H2 generation than [Cu(btep)Cl2]. Several electrochemical and photochemical measurements and analysis are carried out to study catalytic mechanism for H2 production.