bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking the Potential of Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes for Active‐Matrix Displays
Authors: Liu Baiquan , Lu Guanhua , Wu Runfeng , Hu Sujuan , Zhang Lingjiao , Guo Min , Yuan Zhangyu , Xue Qifan , Xiao Peng , Luo Dongxiang , Zhang Yiping , Yu Junhong , Huang Fei , Liu Chuan
Published: February 2023

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) emerge as a promising kind of optoelectronic devices for the next‐generation full‐color display and white‐lighting technology. However, the performance of blue PeLEDs is far from satisfactory and some significant properties still remain unknown. Herein, for the first time, the active‐matrix display potential of blue PeLEDs has been unveiled by virtue of highly efficient, bright, and color‐stable blue PeLEDs. Through a synergistic strategy of ligand‐, anti‐solvent‐, device‐, and additive engineering, the photoluminescence quantum yield of blue perovskite films is as high as 76%. Blue PeLEDs exhibit a maximum external quantum efficiency of 9.81% at 251 cd m−2, a maximum power efficiency of 9.78 lm W−1, a peak luminance of 2298 cd m−2, and stable emissions, rendering that the performance is among the best blue PeLEDs. Furthermore, the integration applications of blue PeLEDs have been studied and the first prototype active‐matrix blue PeLED pixel circuit is demonstrated. Moreover, an unprecedented endeavor for active‐matrix flexible blue PeLEDs has been taken. The findings not only provide an alternative approach to achieve high‐performance blue PeLEDs, but also unlock the significant active‐matrix property of blue PeLEDs, which may pave the pathway for PeLED‐based display technology and related integrated optoelectronics.
Recent Advances in Activatable Organic Photoacoustic Probes for In Vivo pH‐Detection
Authors: Liu Yurong , Zhang Xinming , Lei Shan , Wang Yaru , Huang Peng , Lin Jing
Published: February 2023

All life forms require pH homeostasis. The disorder of pH homeostasis is associated with many severe diseases, suggesting the significance of pH‐detection for theranostic diseases. Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) technology has piqued great research interests in spatiotemporal detection of pH in vivo due to its non‐invasiveness and non‐ionization, as well as the high resolution and deep tissue penetration. This mini‐review outlines the most recent advances in activatable organic PA probes for pH‐detection with respect to molecular design, response mechanisms, and their in vivo applications. The basic understanding of PA probes is clarified. The pH‐response mechanisms of the PA probes at the molecular level are particularly emphasized to elucidate the structural design strategies. Finally, the challenges and perspectives, mainly focusing on quantitative detection, are discussed. This review aims to pave the way for further exploration of responsive organic PA probes for in vivo pH‐detection.
Sensitive Stretchable and Pressable Mechanochromic Photonic Crystals for Dynamic Displays and Visual Sensing
Authors: Wei Boru , Hu Yang , Yang Dongpeng , Huang Shaoming
Published: February 2023

Mechanochromic photonic crystals (MPCs) have shown wide applications in visual sensing, displays, anti‐counterfeiting, etc. However, most reported MPCs can only sense stretching or pressure and exhibit poor sensitivity, which greatly limits their applications. Here, sensitive MPCs with brilliant structural colors capable of sensing both stretching and pressures are fabricated by combining self‐assembly and photo‐polymerization processes. The non‐closely packed structures and high reflectance enable MPCs with outstanding mechanochormic performances. The photo‐initiator concentration and thickness have a dramatic influence on the reflectance, wavelength, and even color uniformity. Interestingly, the same MPC shows diverse sensitivity values under stretching or pressing, and the sensitivity of the MPC by pressing is much higher than that by stretching due to their different deformations along three‐dimensional directions. These results are helpful for gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanochromic mechanism and sensitivity. In addition, dynamic patterns with tailorable color contrasts based on pressure and visual sensing based on stretching in practical applications are realized by taking the above advantages of MPCs. This study offers new insight into understanding mechanochromic behavior and will advance their applications in sensing, printing, and information encryption.
Evaluation of a high‐speed planter in soybean production
Authors: Kovács Péter , Casteel Shaun N.
Published: February 2023

Timely and quality planting of soybean is important to achieve maximum yield potential. Wet spring soil conditions and rain frequently shorten the time for farmers to plant crops within optimal soil conditions. New planter technology has been introduced that enables farmers to plant their fields faster and more precisely than with traditional planters. Large plot field studies were conducted in Indiana from 2015 to 2017 to evaluate a high‐speed planter at various planting speeds with multiple seeding rates on soybean. Seedling emergence, plant distribution, and final yield were evaluated. Three planting speeds [8, 12, and 16 kilometers per hour (kph)] and two seeding rates (222,000 and 321,000 seeds ha−1) were included in all years, and an additional planting speed and seeding rate were included in 2016 (20 kph and 420,000 seeds ha−1, respectively). Overall, planting speed did not impact soybean seedling emergence. Uniformity of plant spacing decreased slightly as the planting speed increased from 8 to 20 kph in 2016. Cool and wet conditions immediately after planting likely led to inconsistent emergence. Final grain yield was not affected by planting speeds or seeding rate except in 2017 when 12 kph planting speed yielded 0.25 Mg ha−1 higher than the other planting speeds. Increasing planting speed can be achieved without detrimentally affecting plant population, plant spacing, and yield in soybean.
Multisite Hebbian Plasticity Restores Function in Humans with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Jo Hang Jin , Kizziar Ethan , Sangari Sina , Chen David , Kessler Allison , Kim Ki , Anschel Alan , Heinemann Allen W. , Mensh Brett D. , Awadalla Saria , Lieber Richard L. , Oudega Martin , Perez Monica A.
Published: February 2023

Objective

Spinal cord injury (SCI) damages synaptic connections between corticospinal axons and motoneurons of many muscles, resulting in devastating paralysis. We hypothesized that strengthening corticospinal‐motoneuronal synapses at multiple spinal cord levels through Hebbian plasticity (i.e., “neurons that fire together, wire together”) promotes recovery of leg and arm function.

Methods

Twenty participants with chronic SCI were randomly assigned to receive 20 sessions of Hebbian or sham stimulation targeting corticospinal‐motoneuronal synapses of multiple leg muscles followed by exercise. Based on the results from this study, in a follow‐up prospective study, 11 more participants received 40 sessions of Hebbian stimulation targeting corticospinal‐motoneuronal synapses of multiple arm and leg muscles followed by exercise. During Hebbian stimulation sessions, 180 paired pulses elicited corticospinal action potentials by magnetic (motor cortex) and/or electrical (thoracic spine) stimulation allowing volleys to arrive at the spinal cord 1–2 milliseconds before motoneurons were activated retrogradely via bilateral electrical stimulation (brachial plexus, ulnar, femoral, and common peroneal nerves) for biceps brachii, first dorsal interosseous, quadriceps femoris, and tibialis anterior muscles as needed.

Results

We found in our randomized study that participants receiving Hebbian stimulation improved their walking speed and corticospinal function to a greater extent than individuals receiving sham stimulation. In agreement, prospective study participants improved their grasping and walking, corticospinal function, and quality of life metrics, exhibiting greater improvements with more sessions that persisted 9‐month post‐therapy.

Interpretation

Our findings suggest that multisite Hebbian stimulation, informed by the physiology of the corticospinal system, represents an effective strategy to promote functional recovery following SCI. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:1198–1213
Decoupled Artificial Photosynthesis
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Wang Yaobing
Published: February 2023

Natural photosynthesis (NP) generates oxygen and carbohydrates from water and CO2utilizing solar energy to nourish lives and balance CO2levels. Following nature, artificial photosynthesis (AP), typically, overall water or CO2splitting, produces fuels and chemicals from renewable energy. However, hydrogen evolution or CO2reduction is inherently coupled with kinetically sluggish water oxidation, lowering efficiencies and raising safety concerns. Decoupled systems have thus emerged. In this review, we elaborate how decoupled artificial photosynthesis (DAP) evolves from NP and AP and unveil their distinct photoelectrochemical mechanisms in energy capture, transduction and conversion. Advances of AP and DAP are summarized in terms of photochemical (PC), photoelectrochemical (PEC), and photovoltaic‐electrochemical (PV‐EC) catalysis based on material and device design. The energy transduction process of DAP is emphasized. Challenges and perspectives on future researches are also presented.
Cobalt‐katalysierte enantioselektive Hydrierung von dreifach substituierten carbocyclischen Olefinen: Zugang zu chiralen cyclischen Amiden
Authors: Chakrabortty Soumyadeep , Konieczny Katharina , de Zwart Felix J. , Bobylev Eduard. O. , Baráth Eszter , Tin Sergey , Müller Bernd H. , Reek Joost N. H. , de Bruin Bas , de Vries Johannes G.
Published: February 2023

Die enantioselektive Hydrierung von cyclischen Enamiden wurde mit einem Cobalt‐Bisphosphin‐Katalysator erreicht. Die Reduktion verschiedenster dreifach substituierter carbocyclischen Enamide zu den entsprechenden gesättigten Amiden erfolgte mit hoher Aktivität und ausgezeichneter Enantioselektivität (bis zu 99 %) unter Verwendung des Systems CoCl2/(S,S)‐Ph‐BPE. Die Methode lässt sich auf die Synthese chiraler Amine durch eine basische Hydrolyse der Hydrierungsprodukte ausweiten. Erste mechanistische Untersuchungen deuten auf die Anwesenheit einer high‐spin Cobalt(II)‐Spezie im katalytischen Cyclus hin. Wir postulieren die Hydrierung der Kohlenstoff‐Kohlenstoff‐Doppelbindung über einen Sigma‐Bindungs‐Metathese‐Weg.
Novel synthesis of N‐acrylamidociprofloxacin and related polymers: Bioactivity, drug resistance, and drug release
Authors: Alsughayer Abdulhakeem , Elassar Abdel‐Zaher A. , Hasan Abdulaziz A. , Al Sagheer Fakhreia
Published: February 2023

Two new ciprofloxacin (CF) monomers, (ACF) and (MCF) were designed and synthesized. Both ACF and MCF were polymerized using a redox‐initiated polymerization process, yielding the polymers PACF and PMCF, respectively. Three co‐polymers were prepared by polymerizing ACF with acrylamide (AcA), acrylonitrile (AcN), or N‐(thiazol‐2‐yl) acrylamide (NTA) monomers in a 1:3 molar ratio. Elemental analysis, X‐ray, IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry were used to characterize the obtained monomers, polymers, and co‐polymers. The biological activities of the prepared monomers, polymers, and co‐polymers against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria were investigated. Newly prepared compounds had a severe‐to‐mild impact on the microorganisms that were tested. Additionally, CF‐resistant bacteria were tested against newly prepared monomers and polyciprofloxacin. These data demonstrated that novel CF derivatives can overcome bacterial mutations that result in resistance to quinolone derivatives. Under acidic and basic conditions at 40°C, the sustained drug release of CF from polymeric chains and co‐polymers was studied. Drug release in the absence and presence of a catalytic quantity of potassium chloride at different concentrations, was studied and showed an increase in extended release. Drug release from the polymer and co‐polymer chains was measured by UV–visible spectroscopy. Morphologies and thermal stability of the prepared polymers and co‐polymers have also been reported.
Mediating role of internationalization readiness in the adoption of social sustainability practices: Evidence from Vietnamese handicraft companies
Authors: Tran Thi Ha Uyen , Lau Kwok Hung , Ong Chin Eang
Published: February 2023

This study investigates the mediating role of internationalization readiness in the adoption of social sustainability practices (SSP) by companies in the Vietnamese handicraft industry. Data were collected from 325 Vietnamese handicraft companies through a questionnaire survey to empirically validate a conceptual model. The findings reveal that government, laborer, and market pressures on SSP adoption are fully mediated by internationalization readiness. The results also show that supplier pressures influence SSP adoption both directly and through internationalization readiness as a mediator. Furthermore, both internationalization readiness and SSP adoption can positively influence overall organizational performance. This study is the first of its kind to corroborate the application of the stakeholder theory and the resource‐based view theory to explore the impactful role of internationalization readiness in SSP adoption. It provides significant insights for managers, public policymakers, and sustainability practitioners to promote greater adoption of SSP across the entire supply chain through fostering internationalization readiness of companies.
Forkhead box L2 is a target of miR‐133b and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Juan , Gao Lirong , Wang Anqi , Qian Huiwen , Zhu Jianjie , Ji Shundong , Chen Jun , Liu Zeyi , Ji Cheng
Published: February 2023

Background

Forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) has been recognized as a transcription factor in the progression of many malignancies, but its role in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. This research clarified on the role of FOXL2 and the specific molecular mechanism in NSCLC.

Methods

RNA and protein levels were detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) and western blotting assays. Cell proliferation was examined by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) and clonogenic assays. Transwell and wound healing assays were used to detect cell invasion and migration. Cell cycle alterations were assessed by flow cytometry. The relationship between FOXL2 and miR‐133b was verified by dual‐luciferase reporter assays. In vivo metastasis was monitored in the tail vein‐injected mice.

Results

FOXL2 was upregulated in NSCLC cells and tissues. Downregulation of FOXL2 restrained cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and arrested the cell cycle of NSCLC cells. Moreover, FOXL2 promoted the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of NSCLC cells by inducing the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β)/Smad signaling pathway. miR‐133b directly targeted the 3′‐UTR of FOXL2 and negatively regulated FOXL2 expression. Knockdown of FOXL2 blocked metastasis in vivo.

Conclusions

miR‐133b downregulates FOXL2 by targeting the 3′‐UTR of FOXL2, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation, EMT and metastasis induced by the TGF‐β/Smad signaling pathway in NSCLC. FOXL2 may be a potential molecular target for treating NSCLC.
Constructing an ion‐oriented channel on a zinc electrode through surface engineering
Authors: Liu Xin , Wang Kun , Liu Ying , Zhao Fuhua , He Jianjiang , Wu Hao , Wu Jianfei , Liang Han‐Pu , Huang Changshui
Published: February 2023

The inherent shortcomings of a zinc anode in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) such as zinc dendrites and side reactions severely limit their practical application. Herein, to address these issues, an ion‐oriented transport channel constructed by graphdiyne (GDY) nanowalls is designed and grown in situ on the surface of a zinc electrode. The vertically stacked GDY nanowalls with a unique hierarchical porous structure and mechanical properties form a nanomesh‐like interface on the zinc electrode, acting as an ion‐oriented channel, which can efficiently confine the segmented growth of zinc metal in microscopic regions of hundreds of nanometers. In those microscopic regions, the uniform domain current density is effortlessly maintained compared with a large surface area, thereby inhibiting zinc dendrites effectively. Besides, due to the presence of the ion‐oriented channel, the modified zinc anode demonstrates long‐term stable zinc plating/stripping performance for more than 600 h at 1 mAh cm−2 in an aqueous electrolyte. In addition, full‐cells coupled with MnO2 show high specific capacity and power density, as well as excellent cycling stability with a capacity retention of 82% after 5000 cycles at 1 A g−1. This work provides a feasible and accessible surface engineering approach to modify the electrode interface for confined and dendrite‐free zinc deposition in aqueous ZIBs.
Sila[1]ruthenocenophanes: Long Sought‐After Family Members
Authors: Bhattacharya Satavisha , Nezamzadeh Ahmadreza , Zhu Jianfeng , Müller Jens
Published: February 2023

During the last three decades, silicon‐bridged [1]ferrocenophanes have been developed into an important class of monomers with the resulting polymers being the subject of hundreds of publications. For unknown reasons, not a single example of a silicon‐bridged [1]ruthenocenophane is described in the literature. We set out to address this mystery and could synthesize the first sila[1]ruthenocenophanes. Their molecular structures as well as their heat release in the melt, render them as highly strained sandwich compounds that are polymerizable. Why did it take so long to prepare the first sila[1]ruthenocenophanes? This question is addressed by a detailed analysis of the kinetics of the salt‐metathesis approach, which reveals a striking difference between ferrocene and ruthenocene.
Coevolution of rostrum and brain in pig species
Authors: Ritter Cindy , Eigen Lennart , Deiringer Nora , Laubscher Liesel , Brecht Michael
Published: February 2023

Domestic pigs have a prominent cortical gyrus (the rostrum gyrus) isomorphic to the contralateral hemirostrum. It is unclear, however, if the size and shape of the rostrum gyrus are of evolutionary/functional relevance. Here, we address this question by assessing the relationship of rostrum and rostrum gyrus across eight pig species. To this end, we quantified rostrum morphology in fresh and alcohol‐preserved pig specimens by surface scans, microfocus computed tomography scans, and photography. We establish that the size and shape of the rostrum gyrus can be precisely inferred from endocasts. We then took advantage of the accessibility of pig skulls and endocasts to assess features of the rostrum gyrus across species. Our investigation led to the following results: (i) The rostra of pig species show basic similarities. (ii) A cortical rostrum gyrus is apparent in all pigs. (iii) The size of the rostrum gyrus differs across species and outgroups of the evolutionary dominant suinae (i.e., peccaries and the babirusa) have a noticeably smaller rostrum gyrus. (iv) Warthogs have a derived rostrum morphology with an extra fold and a very wide rostrum; the warthog rostrum gyrus recapitulates these rostrum features. (v) Domestic pigs have relatively smaller rostrum gyrus than wild boars. We also provide indications for a conserved cytoarchitectonic patterning of the rostrum gyrus. We conclude that the rostrum gyrus is a neural module that was putatively present in the common ancestor of pigs and that this neural module is conserved across pig species. Natural selection maintains the rostrum gyrus’ size and its exact isomorphism to the rostrum.
Photoionization Bands of Cyanogen: Multi‐Mode Vibronic Coupling and Renner‐Teller Effects
Authors: Rani Mamilwar , Kanakati Arun Kumar , Mahapatra Susanta
Published: February 2023

Multi‐mode vibronic coupling in the,,andelectronic states of Cyanogen radical cation (CN) is investigated with the aid ofab initioquantum chemistry and first principles quantum dynamics methods. The electronic degenerate states of Π symmetry of CNundergo Renner‐Teller (RT) splitting along degenerate vibrational modes ofπsymmetry. The RT split components form symmetry allowed conical intersections with those from nearby RT split states or with non‐degenerate electronic states of Σ symmetry. A parameterized vibronic Hamiltonian is constructed using standard vibronic coupling theory in a diabatic electronic basis and symmetry rules. The parameters of the Hamiltonian are derived fromab initiocalculated adiabatic electronic energies. The vibronic spectrum is calculated, assigned and compared with the available experimental data. The impact of various electronic coupling on the vibronic structure of the spectrum is discussed.
Quantification and enantiomeric distribution of clenbuterol in several bovine tissues using UHPLC–tandem mass spectrometry: Evaluation of a risk factor associated with meat contamination
Authors: Velasco‐Bejarano Benjamín , Espinoza‐Muñoz Ivan M. , Álvarez‐Sánchez Alan , Gómez‐Tagle Anuar , Velasco‐Carrillo Ricardo , Bautista Jahir , Rodríguez Leonardo
Published: February 2023

Clenbuterol (Clb) (4‐amino‐α‐[(tert‐butylamine) methyl]‐3,5‐dichlorobenzyl alcohol) is a sympathomimetic agent that exhibits β2‐agonist activity. It is applied as a bronchodilatory, tocolytic, and mucolytic agent and is authorized for clinical management in both human and veterinary therapeutics as a racemic mixture. However, its use is strictly prohibited in animals destined for food production in countries in the European Union and in the United States and Mexico, among many others. The R‐(−) enantiomer in clenbuterol stimulates β2‐receptors, whereas the S‐(+) enantiomer blocks the effect of β1‐receptors. The aims of this study were to develop a method for detecting and quantifying Clb and its enantiomeric distribution in several bovine tissues. The UHPLC‐MS/MS method developed to quantify the target compound at trace levels in these tissues combines high sensitivity with good selectivity and short chromatographic run time. The tissue samples tested were found to contain racemic Clb in concentrations of 5–447 pg g−1. The enantiomeric analysis of Clb showed that R‐(−)‐Clb is present at higher concentrations in some tissues, whereas S‐(+)‐Clb was detected in a ratio of 55/45 in the liver and heart tissues.
Numerical investigation on the spewing mechanism of earth pressure balance shield in a high‐pressure water‐rich sand stratum
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Qi Weiqiang , Ding Yanjie , Jiang Yusheng , Yang Xinkang , Yang Xing , Shao Xiaokang
Published: February 2023

The spewing of a screw conveyor easily occurs from the earth pressure balance (called EPB) shield in a water‐rich sand stratum. This may lead to the collapse of the tunnel face and even serious subsidence of the ground surface. To understand the spewing mechanism of the shield screw conveyor and explore the critical hydraulic condition of soil spewing in a shield–soil chamber, a simplified theoretical model for the spewing of the screw conveyor was developed based on the equation of groundwater flow in the screw conveyor under turbulent state. Thus, coupling Darcy's law with Brinkman's equation, this model was implemented within the COMSOL Multiphysics framework. The underground water flow in the shield screw conveyor was simulated so as to obtain its velocity and flow rate. Numerical simulations show that the water pressure distribution is concentrated in the lower part of the soil chamber after the groundwater enters the soil chamber. When the groundwater enters the screw conveyor, its pressure gradually decreases along the direction of the screw conveyor. When the water flow reaches the stratum–shield interface, the flow velocity changes markedly: first increases and concentrates at the entrance of the lower soil chamber, plummets and stabilizes gradually, and increases again at the exit. The soil chamber and screw conveyor are significantly depressurized. It is also found that the soil permeability coefficient can be reduced to k < 2.6 × 10−4 cm/s through appropriate soil improvement, which can effectively prevent the occurrence of spewing disasters.
Parasites indicate trophic complexity and faunal succession in restored oyster reefs over a 22‐year period
Authors: Moore Christopher S. , Baillie Christopher J. , Edmonds Emily A. , Gittman Rachel K. , Blakeslee April M. H.
Published: February 2023

Foundation species like the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) create complex habitats for organisms across multiple trophic levels. Historic declines in oyster abundance have prompted decades of restoration efforts. However, it remains unclear how long it takes for restored reefs to resemble the trophic complexity of natural reefs. We used a space‐for‐time approach to examine community succession of restored reefs ranging in age from 3 to 22 years old in coastal North Carolina, surveying both free‐living taxa and parasite communities and comparing them to natural reefs that are decades old. Trophically transmitted parasites can serve as valuable biodiversity surrogates, sometimes providing greater information about a system or question than their free‐living counterparts. We found that the diversity of free‐living taxa was highly variable and did not differ among new (<10 years), old (20 years), and natural reefs. Conversely, parasite diversity increased with elapsed time after restoration, and parasite communities in older restored reefs resembled those found in natural reefs. Our study also revealed that oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau) act as a key host species capable of facilitating parasite transmission and trophic ascent in oyster reef food webs. Overall, our results suggest that trophic complexity in restored oyster reefs requires at least 8 years to resemble that found in natural reefs. This work adds to a growing body of evidence demonstrating how parasites can serve as biodiversity surrogates, proxies for the presence of additional taxa that are often difficult or impractical to sample. Given the multiplicity of links formed with their hosts, parasites offer a powerful tool for quantifying diversity and trophic complexity in environmental monitoring studies.
The first DNA barcode library of Chironomidae from the Tibetan Plateau with an evaluation of the status of the public databases
Authors: Han Wu , Tang Hongqu , Wei Lili , Zhang Enlou
Published: February 2023

The main aim of this study was to curate a COI barcode library of Chironomidae from the Tibetan Plateau (TP) as an essential supplement to the public database. Another aim is to evaluate the current status of the public database of Chironomidae in aspects of taxonomic coverage, geographic representation, barcode quality, and efficiency for molecular identification, the Tibetan Plateau, China. In this study, 512 individuals of Chironomidae from the TP were identified based on morphological taxonomy and barcode analysis. The metadata of public records of Chironomidae were downloaded from the BOLD, and the quality of the public barcodes was ranked using the BAGS program. The reliability of the public library for molecular identification was evaluated with the newly curated library using the BLAST method. The newly curated library comprised 159 barcode species of 54 genera, of which 58.4% of species were likely new to science. There were great gaps in the taxonomic coverage and geographic representation in the public database, and only 29.18% of barcodes were identified at the species level. The quality of the public database was of concern, with only 20% of species being determined as concordant between BINs and morphological species. The accuracy of molecular identification using the public database was poor, and about 50% of matched barcodes could be correctly identified at the species level at the identity threshold of 97%. Based on these data, some recommendations are included here for improving barcoding studies on Chironomidae. The species richness of Chironomidae from the TP is much higher than ever recorded. Barcodes from more taxonomic groups and geographic regions are urgently needed to fill the great gap in the current public database of Chironomidae. Users should take caution when public databases are adopted as reference libraries for the taxonomic assignment.
High‐, medium‐, and low‐dispersal animal taxa communities in fragmented urban grasslands
Authors: Vélová Lucie , Véle Adam , Peltanová Alena , Šafářová Lenka , Menendéz Rosa , Horák Jakub
Published: February 2023

Urbanized areas are rapidly expanding into a variety of habitats. Urbanization and suburbanization are often associated with changes in biodiversity, which are naturally influenced by biotic interactions and abiotic habitat characteristics. The main cause of changes caused by suburbanization is fragmentation. Its impacts vary between animals with different dispersal abilities. We focused on studying the responses of three taxa with different dispersal abilities: birds as a relatively high‐dispersal taxon, medium‐dispersal butterflies, and low‐dispersal land snails. We studied how biotic factors as well as habitat structural and fragmentation characteristics explain the community composition of the three study taxa in urban grasslands in the city of Pardubice (Czech Republic). Birds were the most species‐rich taxon followed by butterflies. Land snails had species‐poor grassland communities. Species composition analysis indicated species overlap among the studied taxa. Bird species composition covaried with butterfly species richness and reciprocally. Both taxa were significantly influenced by the amount of woody vegetation within the grassland. Bird community composition was also influenced by fragmentation characteristics, namely the distance to the nearest built‐up area. Urban growth most likely leads to changes in the characteristics of animal communities associated with former lowland natural grasslands, deteriorating the communities of low‐dispersal land snails while allowing birds that have generally higher dispersal abilities to thrive. Our results show that in assessing the impact of urbanization on biodiversity, attention should also be paid to low‐dispersal animal taxa.
Development of fault cause estimation method for distribution line
Authors: Iida Yoshikazu , Hirai Masato , Shiga Masato , Ono Tetsushi , Inuzuka Tatsuki
Published: February 2023

We are planning to develop the new Advanced Distribution Automation System (ADAS) equipped with optical communication network and sectionalizer with sensor for more grid reliability and efficiency on maintenance operation. The new system is featured with the function of fault cause or damaged part estimation. The new sectionalizer captures the waveform of electrical line surge originated by fault and the system analyzes the waveform for this function. This paper mainly introduces the system configuration of ADAS and an early stage examination of fault cause estimation technology.
Prognosis evaluation of chronic inflammatory cardiomyopathy with ring‐like late gadolinium enhancement
Authors: Wang Hui , Bo Kairui , Gao Yifeng , Zhou Zhen , Xu Lei
Published: February 2023

Aims

Ring‐like late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is a special LGE pattern in patients with chronic inflammatory cardiomyopathy (infl‐CMP), which is associated with cardiac dysfunction and ventricular remodelling and attributed to viral infection followed by bacterial and parasitic infections. Data on the combination of CMR imaging and clinical parameters that can add long‐term prognostic value in patients with infl‐CMP are still rare. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of CMR in risk stratification in this kind of patients.

Methods and results

A total of 319 consecutive patients with clinically suspected myocarditis were retrospectively identified. Forty‐seven patients with ring‐like LGE on CMR who diagnosed as infl‐CMP, and 72 patients with other LGE pattern were eligible for standardized follow‐up. The left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle function and mass were analyses by CMR. Myocardial strain of the ventricles was evaluated by feature tracking. Major (cardiac death, resuscitated cardiac arrest, ventricular assist device, transplantation, and appropriate implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator shock) and minor (rehospitalization due to heart failure and sustained atrial fibrillation) adverse cardiovascular events were assessed during follow‐up since the date of nCMR examination. Cox proportional hazards model was used to investigate which of the prognostic factors identified by univariable analysis were significantly associated with cardiac events. In the ring‐like LGE group, adverse cardiac events occurred in 14 (31.11%) patients, including 7 deaths (15.56%), 6 (13.33%) heart‐failure hospitalizations, and 1 (2.22%) case of sustained atrial fibrillation during the mean follow‐up period of 70.15 ± 45.68 months (interquartile range: 32.83–103.71 months). No major or minor adverse cardiac event occurred in the other LGE pattern group, except rehospitalization in one patient due to arrhythmia. Further analyses of ring‐like LGE group by univariable and Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis showed that body mass index (BMI) (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.40–0.73, P = 0.000), right ventricle cardiac index (RVCI) (HR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.14–0.71, P = 0.002), LV basal peak circumferential strain (LV‐PCSbasal) (HR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.11–1.43, P = 0.000) were independently associated with the long‐term outcome. Receiver operator characteristic curve indicated that the cut‐off of LV‐PCSBasal was −7.95%, and it has added prognostic value to BMI and RVCI.

Conclusions

For infl‐CMP patients with ring‐like LGE on CMR, low BMI and RVCI were associated with a poor prognosis. LV‐PCSBasal with a cut‐off of −7.95% can add prognostic value for patients with infl‐CMP who have ring‐like LGE.
Conversion of antibacterial quinolone drug levofloxacin to potent cytotoxic agents
Authors: Ahadi Hamideh , Shokrzadeh Mohammad , Hosseini‐khah Zahra , Ghassemi Barghi Nasrin , Ghasemian Majid , Emami Saeed
Published: February 2023

Levofloxacin, the optical S‐(‐) isomer of ofloxacin, is a broad‐spectrum antibacterial agent widely used to control various infections caused by Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. While the COOH group is necessary for antibacterial activity, its modification can offer anticancer activity to the fluoroquinolone framework. Therefore, several levofloxacin carboxamides 11a‐j and 12 containing 5‐substituted‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole residue were synthesized and screened in vitro for their anticancer activity. The in vitro MTT viability assay revealed that the most compounds had significant activity against cancer cells MCF‐7, A549, and SKOV3. In particular, the 3‐chloro‐ and 4‐fluoro‐ benzyl derivatives (11b and 11h), with IC50 values of 1.69–4.76 μM were as potent as or better than doxorubicin. It should be noted that the mother quinolone levofloxacin showed no activity on the tested cancer cell lines. The SAR analysis demonstrated that the 3‐chloro or 4‐fluoro substituent on the S‐benzyl moiety had positive effect on the activity. Further in vitro evaluations of the most promising compounds 11b and 11h by flow cytometric analysis and comet test revealed the ability of compounds in the induction of apoptosis and blockage of the cell proliferation at the G1‐phase by nuclear fragmentation and DNA degradation in cancer cells. The obtained results demonstrated that the alteration of 6‐COOH functional group in the levofloxacin structure and conjugation with a proper heterocyclic pharmacophore is a good strategy to obtain new anticancer agents.
A Monte Carlo approach to study the effect of ions on the nucleation of sulfuric acid–water clusters
Authors: Krog Dan , Enghoff Martin B. , Köhn Christoph
Published: February 2023

The nucleation of sulfuric acid–water clusters is a significant contribution to the formation of aerosols as precursors of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). Depending on the temperature, there is an interplay between the clustering of particles and their evaporation controlling the efficiency of cluster growth. For typical temperatures in the atmosphere, the evaporation of H2SO4H2O clusters is more efficient than the clustering of the first, small clusters, and thus their growth is dampened at its early stages. Since the evaporation rates of small clusters containing an ion are much smaller than for purely neutral sulfuric acid clusters, they can serve as a central body for the further attachment of H2SO4H2O molecules. We here present an innovative Monte Carlo model to study the growth of aqueous sulfuric acid clusters around central ions. Unlike classical thermodynamic nucleation theory or kinetic models, this model allows to trace individual particles and thus to determine properties for each individual particle. As a benchmarking case, we have performed simulations at a relative humidity of 50% with dipole and ion concentrations of and . We discuss the runtime of our simulations and present the velocity distribution of ionic clusters, the size distribution of the clusters as well as the formation rate of clusters with radii . Simulations give reasonable velocity and size distributions and there is a good agreement of the formation rates with previous results, including the relevance of ions for the initial growth of sulfuric acid–water clusters. Conclusively, we present a computational method which allows studying detailed particle properties during the growth of aerosols as a precursor of CCN.
Alternating groups and point‐primitive linear spaces with number of points being squarefree
Authors: Guan Haiyan , Zhou Shenglin
Published: February 2023

This paper is a further contribution to the classification of point‐primitive finite regular linear spaces. Let be a nontrivial finite regular linear space whose number of points is squarefree. We prove that if is point‐primitive with an alternating socle, then is the projective space .
A bound on the dissociation number
Authors: Bock Felix , Pardey Johannes , Penso Lucia D. , Rautenbach Dieter
Published: February 2023

The dissociation number of a graph is the maximum order of a set of vertices of inducing a subgraph that is of maximum degree at most 1. Computing the dissociation number of a given graph is algorithmically hard even when restricted to subcubic bipartite graphs. For a graph with vertices, edges, components, and induced cycles of length 1 modulo 3, we show . Furthermore, we characterize the extremal graphs in which every two cycles are vertex‐disjoint.
Ingestion kinetics of mixotrophic and heterotrophic flagellates
Authors: Edwards Kyle F. , Li Qian , Steward Grieg F.
Published: February 2023

In sunlit waters, significant predation is performed by unicellular, phagotrophic mixotrophs, that is, predators that also possess plastids. The success of a mixotrophic lifestyle will depend in part on how well mixotrophs acquire prey relative to specialized heterotrophs. Likewise, consequences of mixotrophy for productivity and element cycling will depend on the rate and efficiency at which mixotrophs consume prey biomass relative to heterotrophs. However, trait differences between mixotrophs and heterotrophs are not well characterized. In addition, cell size of mixotrophs varies widely, and constitutive mixotrophs include small flagellates deriving from diverse taxa, while larger species are primarily dinoflagellates. To determine whether similar constraints apply to phagotrophs across this broad range of size and taxa, we compiled 83 measurements of flagellate functional responses and compared maximum clearance rates (Cmax) and maximum ingestion rates (Imax) between trophic modes. We found that the average mixotroph has a 3.7‐fold lower Cmax and 7.8‐fold lower Imax than the average heterotroph, after controlling for cell size. The smaller penalty for Cmax suggests that relative fitness of mixotrophs will be enhanced under dilute prey concentrations that are common in pelagic ecosystems. We also find that growth efficiency is greater for mixotrophs and for flagellates with lower Cmax, indicating a spectrum of trophic strategies that may be driven by phototrophy vs. phagotrophy allocation as well as fast vs. slow metabolic variation. Allometric scaling shows that Imax is constrained by a common relationship among dinoflagellates and other taxa, but dinoflagellates achieve a greater volume‐specific Cmax. These results should aid in interpreting protistan communities and modeling mixotrophy.
Application of electrochemical methods for studying steel corrosion in alkali‐activated materials
Authors: Mundra Shishir , Samson Gabriel , Masi Giulia , Achenbach Rebecca , Bastidas David M. , Bernal Susan A. , Bignozzi Maria C. , Criado Maria , Cyr Martin , Gartner Nina , von Greve‐Dierfeld Stefanie , Legat Andraž , Nikoonasab Ali , Provis John L. , Raupach Michael , Gluth Gregor J. G.
Published: February 2023

Alkali‐activated materials (AAMs) are binders that can complement and partially substitute the current use of conventional cement. However, the present knowledge about how AAMs protect steel reinforcement in concrete elements is incomplete, and uncertainties exist regarding the application of electrochemical methods to investigate this issue. The present review by EFC WP11‐Task Force ‘Corrosion of steel in alkali‐activated materials’ demonstrates that important differences exist between AAMs and Portland cement, and between different classes of AAMs, which are mainly caused by differing pore solution compositions, and which affect the outcomes of electrochemical measurements. The high sulfide concentrations in blast furnace slag‐based AAMs lead to distinct anodic polarisation curves, unusually low open circuit potentials, and low polarisation resistances, which might be incorrectly interpreted as indicating active corrosion of steel reinforcement. No systematic study of the influence of the steel–concrete interface on the susceptibility of steel to corrosion in AAMs is available. Less common electrochemical methods present an opportunity for future progress in the field.
The Role of Fishery-Independent Bottom Trawl Surveys in Providing Regional and Temporal Context to Offshore Wind Farm Monitoring Studies
Authors: Gervelis Brian , Wilber Dara H. , Brown Lorraine , Carey Drew A.
Published: February 2023

Bottom trawl surveys are commonly used to examine potential effects on fishes and invertebrates from offshore wind (OSW) farms in Europe and in the northeastern United States. Because OSW surveys typically occur over a limited spatial footprint, comparison of OSW monitoring results to long-term fishery-independent surveys may provide a regional and temporal context for OSW data sets. We compared results of the Block Island Wind Farm (BIWF) bottom trawl survey (2013–2019) to three fishery-independent bottom trawl surveys (Northeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management [RIDEM]) using catch rates of 12 federally managed species. We evaluated temporal trends in annual residual catches for each species calculated within each survey as the difference between the mean annual biomass per trawl and the long-term mean. Regional consistency in relative catches was apparent for species exhibiting synchronous interannual variability among surveys (Black Sea Bass Centropristis striata, Scup Stenotomus chrysops, Summer Flounder Paralichthys dentatus, and Winter Flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus) or a decreasing trend in residual catch rates across the 7-year study period (Little Skate Leucoraja erinacea, longfin inshore squid Doryteuthis pealeii, and Winter Skate L. ocellata). For other species, catches among surveys were asynchronous (Atlantic Herring Clupea harengus, Butterfish Peprilus triacanthus, and Windowpane Scophthalmus aquosus) or anomalous catches in a single year affected the results (Red Hake Urophycis chuss and Silver Hake Merluccius bilinearis). Monitoring of BIWF occurred during a period with lower-than-average historical catches in a 32-year RIDEM data set for Atlantic Herring, Butterfish, Little Skate, longfin inshore squid, Red Hake, Silver Hake, and Winter Flounder and higher-than-average catches for Black Sea Bass, Scup, and Summer Flounder. There was no evidence that variation in catches near BIWF differed from regional trends in a way consistent with a detrimental impact of OSW farm operation. The regional context provided from multiple bottom trawl surveys varies by species and thus may be limited for interpreting OSW monitoring results.
Free‐style technique versus computed tomographic angiography‐guided perforator selection in deep inferior epigastric perforator flap harvest: A prospective clinical study
Authors: Santanelli di Pompeo Fabio , Paolini Guido , D'Orsi Gennaro , Atzeni Matteo , Catalano Carlo , Cannavale Giuseppe , Cilia Francesco , Firmani Guido , Sorotos Michail
Published: February 2023

Background

Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) is the preferred diagnostic tool in preoperative deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap assessment, though some surgeons prefer approaching perforator selection with intraoperative findings alone.

Methods

This prospective observational study conducted between 2015 and 2020 assessed our intraoperative decision‐making “free‐style” technique for DIEP flap harvest. Any patient with indication for immediate or delayed breast reconstruction using abdominally based flaps and who received preoperative CTA was enrolled. Only unilateral cases performed by the same surgeon were considered. Allergy to iodine‐based contrast media, renal impairment and claustrophobia were other exclusion criteria. Primary endpoint consisted in comparing operative times and complication rates between free‐style technique and CTA‐guided approach. Secondary endpoints included evaluation of agreement rate between intraoperative findings and CTA, and identification of variables affecting operative time and complication rate. Demographics, surgical information, agreement versus non‐agreement and complications were collected.

Results

Starting from 206 patients, 100 were enrolled. Fifty were assigned to Group A, receiving DIEP flap with free‐style technique. The other 50 were assigned to Group B, receiving DIEP flap with CTA‐guided perforators selection. Study groups' demographics were homogenous. Operative time was statistically lower (p = .036) in free‐style group (252.4 ± 44.77 min vs. 265.6 ± 31.67 min). Complication rates were higher in CTA‐guided group (10% vs. 2%) though this was not significant (p = .092). Overall agreement rate in dominant perforator selection between intraoperatively and CTA‐based assessment was 81%. Multiple regression analysis showed no variable increased complication rate, though CTA‐guided approach, BMI > 30 and harvesting more than one perforator were respectively associated with B‐coefficient of 17.391 (2.430–32.351, 95% CI) [p = .023], 3.50 (0.640–6.379, 95% CI) [p = .017] and 18.887 (6.232–31.542, 95% CI) [p = .004], predicting increased operative time.

Conclusions

The free‐style technique proved to be a useful tool for guiding DIEP flap harvest with good sensibility in detecting the dominant perforator suggested by CTA without statistically increasing surgery duration and complications.