bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contamination and Toxicity of Surface Waters Along Rural and Urban Regions of the Capibaribe River in Tropical Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Alves Romulo Nepomuceno , Mariz Célio Freire , de Melo Alves Maria Karolaine , Cavalcanti Maria Gabriella Neri , de Melo Thalita Joana Bezerra , de Arruda-Santos Roxanny Helen , Zanardi-Lamardo Eliete , Carvalho Paulo S. M.
Published: July 2021

The Capibaribe River provides water to a population of 1.7 million people in the Brazilian northeast, while receiving agricultural runoff and industrial and domestic effluents along its 280 km. The present study evaluated the ecotoxicity of surface waters along ten sites in rural and urban areas using zebrafish (Danio rerio) early-life stages and related it to water quality indices and chemical abiotic variables. Lethality rates, delays in embryo-larval development quantified by the general morphology score (GMS), and frequencies of developmental abnormalities were analyzed. A correlation was detected between zebrafish GMS and water quality index (WQI), sensitivity to domestic sewage contamination, and trophic state index, focused on eutrophication. These indices agreed in identifying a spatial pattern of smaller impact in terms of ecotoxicity, domestic sewage contamination, and eutrophication risk at three sites in rural areas (mean GMS 16.9), an intermediate impact at four sites with urban and agricultural influence (mean GMS 16.4), and greatest impacts at three more urbanized sites (mean GMS 14.9). Most frequent developmental abnormalities included noninflation of the swim bladder, delayed hatching, nonprotrusion of the mouth, blood stasis, and nondevelopment of pectoral fins. Toxic NH3 concentrations varied spatially, with higher concentrations in urban sites; and blood stasis correlated positively with NH3, suggesting a causal relationship. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were detected in both rural and urbanized sites, contributing to detected toxicity. The present study demonstrates the potential of zebrafish early-life stages as an ecotoxicological model that may contribute to a better understanding of surface water quality and ecotoxicity in tropical river systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:3063–3077. © 2021 SETAC
Environmental Sources, Chemistry, Fate, and Transport of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: State of the Science, Key Knowledge Gaps, and Recommendations Presented at the August 2019 SETAC Focus Topic Meeting
Authors: Guelfo Jennifer L. , Korzeniowski Stephen , Mills Marc A. , Anderson Janet , Anderson Richard H. , Arblaster Jennifer A. , Conder Jason M. , Cousins Ian T. , Dasu Kavitha , Henry Barbara J. , Lee Linda S. , Liu Jinxia , McKenzie Erica R. , Willey Janice
Published: July 2021

A Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Focused Topic Meeting (FTM) on the environmental management of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) convened during August 2019 in Durham, North Carolina (USA). Experts from around the globe were brought together to critically evaluate new and emerging information on PFAS including chemistry, fate, transport, exposure, and toxicity. After plenary presentations, breakout groups were established and tasked to identify and adjudicate via panel discussions overarching conclusions and relevant data gaps. The present review is one in a series and summarizes outcomes of presentations and breakout discussions related to (1) primary sources and pathways in the environment, (2) sorption and transport in porous media, (3) precursor transformation, (4) practical approaches to the assessment of source zones, (5) standard and novel analytical methods with implications for environmental forensics and site management, and (6) classification and grouping from multiple perspectives. Outcomes illustrate that PFAS classification will continue to be a challenge, and additional pressing needs include increased availability of analytical standards and methods for assessment of PFAS and fate and transport, including precursor transformation. Although the state of the science is sufficient to support a degree of site-specific and flexible risk management, effective source prioritization tools, predictive fate and transport models, and improved and standardized analytical methods are needed to guide broader policies and best management practices. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:3234–3260. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Statistics on the bioactive anthocyanin/proanthocyanin products in China online sales
Authors: Zhang PeiAo , Li Yi , Wang Tianyi , Cai Zixuan , Cao Haiyan , Zhang Huiying , Cao Yubin , Chen Bo , Yang Dong
Published: July 2021

Due to their potential beneficial effects, anthocyanins and proanthocyanins have attracted great concern worldwide. Recently, anthocyanin/proanthocyanin‐related health products have occupied a certain proportion of the market. However, there has not been a systematical assessment on collecting and analyzing the relevant information. In this study, information of anthocyanin/proanthocyanin‐related health products on sale on the four major online shopping platforms in China has been collected from November 2020 to February 2021. A total of 144 valid samples from 91 brands were collected, among which blueberries and grape seeds are the main sources of anthocyanins and proanthocyanins, respectively. Besides, the average anthocyanins/proanthocyanins content in these products is 22.71%. Improving eyesight, anti‐asthenopia and anti‐oxidation are widely mentioned among the anthocyanin‐related products, while more proanthocyanin‐related products declare for anti‐oxidation, whitening & spot lighting, and delay of skin aging & repairing skin damage effects. Among the products, 77.78% are capsules and tablets, and the average unit price of anthocyanins/proanthocyanins is $ 5.26/g. Data analysis shows that searching for high‐quality raw materials, researching on the varieties and content of anthocyanins/proanthocyanins, focusing on the intake of specific population, and exploring better storage forms of anthocyanins/proanthocyanins may be important field in the future to promote the development of the anthocyanin/proanthocyanin‐related health products.
A localization method for extraction of foreign matter in the myometrium
Authors: Han Ling , Shi Gang , Ruan Jiaying
Published: July 2021

Synopsis

The present case report supports the use of a localization method for identifying and extracting foreign matter in the myometrium. This method has many advantages such as ease of administration, sound effectiveness, lessened trauma, reduced expenses, and rapid rehabilitation.
Association between perceived birth trauma and postpartum depression: A prospective cohort study in China
Authors: Chen Yanfang , Ismail Faeeha , Xiong Ziyu , Li Meng , Chen Innie , Wen Shi Wu , Xie Ri‐hua
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess the association between women's perceived birth trauma and risk of postpartum depression (PPD).

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study in China between December 2018 and November 2019. Women aged 18–45 years who had a singleton live birth at a university teaching hospital were enrolled after written consent was obtained. PPD was defined as a score of 13 or more on the Chinese version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. We used multiple log‐binomial regression analysis to estimate the independent association between perceived birth trauma and PPD.

Results

A total of 650 eligible women were included in the final analysis. Of them, 245 (37.69%) had self‐reported perceived birth trauma and 188 (28.92%) developed PPD. The PPD rate was 42.04% in women with perceived birth trauma, compared with 20.99% in women without perceived birth trauma (crude relative risk [RR] 2.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.48–3.72). The increased risk of PPD for women with perceived birth trauma remained after adjustment for sociodemographic and obstetric factors (adjusted RR 2.13, 95% CI 1.69–3.28).

Conclusion

Perceived birth trauma may be an important risk factor for PPD in Chinese women. Supportive care for women who perceived childbirth as a trauma may help to reduce the risk of PPD.
Effectiveness of carp seed stocking in large reservoir ecosystems of India
Authors: Puthiyottil Mishal , Sarkar Uttam Kumar , Karnatak Gunjan , Lianthuamluaia Lianthuamluaia , Das Archan Kanti , Koushlesh Satish Kumar , Kumari Suman , Das Basanta Kumar
Published: July 2021

Tropical reservoir ecosystems cover more than 3.51 million ha in India which are the major sources of fish production from inland open waters and supports rich diversity of fish. The present study quantifies fisheries enhancement and evaluates the impact of stocking of Indian major carp fingerlings in six large reservoir ecosystems of India. Analysis of time series data revealed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in fish yield from 12.3 kg ha−1 year−1 in 2004–2005 to 52.4 kg ha−1 year−1 in 2016–2017 due to stocking. The average fish yield of these six reservoirs was estimated to be higher than the national average of 33 kg ha−1 year−1 recorded for large Indian reservoirs. Fingerling stocking had a significant positive impact on fish yield (r = 0.238, p = 0.035). The reservoir water storage level was positively correlated (r = 0.621, p < 0.05) to fish production. The study also shows that the reservoir habitat support 99 finfish species in the central Indian reservoirs of which two species belong to endangered category warranting conservation efforts. This study is the first of its kind on assessing the impact of stocking in large number of tropical reservoirs including the largest reservoir in the country revealing positive effect on fish yield. The fish yield of 85.8 kg ha−1 year−1 obtained in Gandhisagar reservoir (72,300 ha), India revealed that fisheries enhancement is effective and remunerative. The study also highlights the global status of stocking impact in large reservoirs and deliberates issues and suggests management strategies for sustainable fisheries enhancement in large tropical reservoirs.
Versatility of unsaturated polyesters from electrospun macrolactones:RGDimmobilization to increase cell attachment
Authors: de Oliveira Fernando Cabral Sales , do Amaral Ronaldo Jose Farias Correa , dos Santos Luiza Erthal Cardoso , Cummins Cian , Morris Michael M. , Kearney Cathal J. , Heise Andreas
Published: July 2021

Poly(globalide) (PGl), an aliphatic polyester derived from unsaturated macrocylic lactone, can be cross‐linked during electrospinning and drug‐loaded for regenerative medicine applications. However, it lacks intrinsic recognition sites for cell adhesion and proliferation. In order to improve their cell adhesiveness, and therefore their therapeutic potential, we aimed to functionalize electrospun PGl fibers with RGD sequence generating a biomimetic scaffold. First, an amine compound was attached to the surface double bonds of the PGl fibers. Subsequently, the amino groups were coupled with RGD sequences. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirmed the functionalization. The obtained fibers were more hydrophilic, as observed by contact angle analysis, and presented smaller Young's modulus, although similar tensile strength compared with non‐functionalized cross‐linked fibers. In addition, the functionalization process did not significantly alter fibers morphology, as observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Finally, in vitro analysis evidenced the increase in human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSC) adhesion (9.88 times higher DNA content after 1 day of culture) and proliferation (3.57 times higher DNA content after 8 days of culture) compared with non‐functionalized non‐cross‐linked fibers. This is the first report demonstrating the functionalization of PGl fibers with RGD sequence, improving PGl therapeutic potential and further corroborating the use of this highly versatile material toward regenerative medicine applications.
PGC‐1α regulates myonuclear accretion after moderate endurance training
Authors: Battey Edmund , Furrer Regula , Ross Jacob , Handschin Christoph , Ochala Julien , Stroud Matthew J.
Published: July 2021

The transcriptional demands of skeletal muscle fibres are high and require hundreds of nuclei (myonuclei) to produce specialised contractile machinery and multiple mitochondria along their length. Each myonucleus spatially regulates gene expression in a finite volume of cytoplasm, termed the myonuclear domain (MND), which positively correlates with fibre cross‐sectional area (CSA). Endurance training triggers adaptive responses in skeletal muscle, including myonuclear accretion, decreased MND sizes and increased expression of the transcription co‐activator peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α). Previous work has shown that overexpression of PGC‐1α in skeletal muscle regulates mitochondrial biogenesis, myonuclear accretion and MND volume. However, whether PGC‐1α is critical for these processes in adaptation to endurance training remained unclear. To test this, we evaluated myonuclear distribution and organisation in endurance‐trained wild‐type mice and mice lacking PGC‐1α in skeletal muscle (PGC‐1α mKO). Here, we show a differential myonuclear accretion response to endurance training that is governed by PGC‐1α and is dependent on muscle fibre size. The positive relationship of MND size and muscle fibre CSA trended towards a stronger correlation in PGC‐1a mKO versus control after endurance training, suggesting that myonuclear accretion was slightly affected with increasing fibre CSA in PGC‐1α mKO. However, in larger fibres, the relationship between MND and CSA was significantly altered in trained versus sedentary PGC‐1α mKO, suggesting that PGC‐1α is critical for myonuclear accretion in these fibres. Accordingly, there was a negative correlation between the nuclear number and CSA, suggesting that in larger fibres myonuclear numbers fail to scale with CSA. Our findings suggest that PGC‐1α is an important contributor to myonuclear accretion following moderate‐intensity endurance training. This may contribute to the adaptive response to endurance training by enabling a sufficient rate of transcription of genes required for mitochondrial biogenesis.
Lipid reduction to improve clarification and filterability during primary recovery of intracellular products in yeast lysates using exogenous lipase
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Sushobhan K , Morris Stephen A , Nesbeth Darren N , Bracewell Daniel G
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The yeast Pichia pastoris is a popular host organism for production of a range of biological products, several of which are intracellular. The disruption of yeast cells by homogenization also releases large quantities of lipids, which can foul the downstream membranes and chromatography matrices used for purification. This work examines lipid removal from yeast cells following homogenization by enzymatic degradation and its impact on the performance of the subsequent centrifugation and filtration.

RESULTS

Lipase treatment of cell homogenate at 37 °C for 2 h, followed by clarification using a scaled‐down mimic of disc stack centrifugation, resulted in a 6.5‐fold improvement in solids removal when compared to untreated feed material. The lipase‐treated and untreated materials that had undergone initial centrifugation were then tested for filtration performance by passing the material through a 0.45 μm polyethylene sulfone membrane under constant flux. A 50% increase in throughput was observed in comparison to the untreated material.

CONCLUSION

These proof‐of‐concept data suggest enzymatic digestion of lipids, analogous to the widely performed DNA reduction using nucleases, could be a valuable process improvement strategy. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A case of acute bilateral iodine‐induced submandibular sialadenitis: Ultrasound findings
Authors: Longo Chiara , De Robertis Riccardo , Valdo Moreno , Montemezzi Stefania
Published: July 2021

Acute sialadenitis is a rare adverse reaction to iodine‐based contrast agents. Ultrasound (US) is usually the preferred imaging method to evaluate the salivary glands; along with clinical and anamnestic data, US allows the diagnosis of contrast‐induced sialadenitis. We present a case of acute bilateral submandibular sialadenitis induced by intravenous administration of iodine‐based contrast media for a contrast‐enhanced computed tomography scan diagnosed by US.
Assessment of the Precision in Measuring Glutathione at 3 T With a MEGA‐PRESS Sequence in Primary Motor Cortex and Occipital Cortex
Authors: Anton Adriana , Mead Richard J. , Shaw Pamela J. , Edden Richard A. E. , Bigley Julia , Jenkins Thomas M. , Wild Jim M. , Hoggard Nigel , Wilkinson Iain D.
Published: July 2021

Background

Glutathione (GSH) is an important brain antioxidant and a number of studies have reported its measurement by edited and nonedited localized 1H spectroscopy techniques within a range of applications in healthy volunteers and disease states. Good test–retest reproducibility is key when assessing the efficacy of treatments aimed at modulating GSH levels within the central nervous system or when noninvasively assessing changes in GSH content over time.

Purpose

To evaluate the intraday (in vitro and in vivo) and 1‐month apart (in vivo) test–retest reproducibility of GSH measurements from GSH‐edited MEGA‐PRESS acquisitions at 3 T in a phantom and in the brain of a cohort of middle‐aged and older healthy volunteers.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects/Phantoms

A phantom containing physiological concentrations of GSH and metabolites with overlapping spectral signatures and 10 healthy volunteers (4 F, 6 M, 55 ± 14 years old).

Field strength/Sequence

GSH‐edited spectra were acquired at 3 T using the MEGA‐PRESS sequence.

Assessment

The phantom was scanned twice and the healthy subjects were scanned three times (on two separate days, 1 month apart). GSH was quantified from each acquisition, with the in vivo voxels placed at the primary motor cortex (PMC) and the occipital cortex (OCC).

Statistical Tests

Mean coefficients of variation (CV) were used to assess short‐term (in vitro and in vivo) and longer‐term (in vivo) test–retest reproducibility.

Results

In vitro, the CV was 2.3%. In vivo, the mean intraday CV was 3.3% in the PMC and 2.4% in the OCC, while the CVs at 1 month apart were 4.6% in the PMC and 7.8% in the OCC.

Data Conclusion

GSH‐edited MEGA‐PRESS spectroscopy allows measurement of GSH with excellent precision.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Comparison of SARS‐CoV‐2 detection with the Cobas® 6800/8800 system on gargle samples using two sample processing methods with combined oropharyngeal/nasopharyngeal swab
Authors: Benoit Patrick , Labbé Annie‐Claude , Lalancette Linda , Gagnon Simon , Bonneau Eric , Lavallée Christian , Roger Michel , Fafard Judith , Dumaresq Jeannot , Beauchemin Stéphanie , Coutlée François ,   the G‐SPIT group
Published: July 2021

Background

Gargle samples have been proposed as a noninvasive method for detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA. The clinical performance of gargle specimens diluted in Cobas® PCR Media and in Cobas® Omni Lysis Reagent was compared to oropharyngeal/nasopharyngeal swab (ONPS) for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA.

Study Design

Participants were recruited prospectively in two COVID‐19 screening clinics. In addition to the ONPS, participants gargled with 5 ml of natural spring water split in the laboratory as follows: 1 ml was added to 4.3 ml of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) media and 400 μl was added to 200 μl of lysis buffer. Testing was performed with the Cobas® SARS‐CoV‐2 test on the Cobas® 6800 or 8800 platforms.

Results

Overall, 134/647 (20.7%) participants were considered infected because the ONPS or at least one gargle test was positive. ONPS had, respectively, a sensitivity of 96.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 91.3–98.5); both gargle processing methods were slightly less but equally sensitive (90.3% [95% CI: 83.9–94.3]). When ONPS and gargle specimens were both positive, the mean cycle threshold (Ct) was significantly higher for gargles, suggesting lower viral loads.

Conclusion

Gargle specimens directly added in PCR Media provide a similar clinical sensitivity to chemical lysis, both having a slightly, not significantly, lower sensitivity to ONPS.
An open label pilot study of the safety and tolerability of perampanel in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Hotait Mostafa , Ismail Helen H. , Saab Georges E. , Salameh Johnny S.
Published: July 2021

Introduction/Aims

Perampanel, a selective noncompetitive α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) antagonist, is capable of slowing the progression of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) phenotype and increasing the number of anterior horn cells in transgenic mice. Trials of perampanel in epilepsy showed a favorable tolerability profile. In this study we aimed to determine the tolerability and safety of perampanel in patients with ALS.

Methods

Enrolled subjects were started on 2 mg/day of perampanel and the dose was increased by 2 mg/day every week to a maximum dose of 8 mg/day. Our primary outcome measure was tolerability, which was evaluated by monitoring adverse events. The secondary outcome measure was clinical progression, assessed using the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale—Revised (ALSFRS‐R) and spirometry.

Results

Six participants were enrolled. All had adverse events, mostly behavioral. Two completed the trial and the other four withdrew due to adverse events. All participants reported resolution of these events after discontinuation of the drug. The trial was halted due to the large number of adverse events.

Discussion

The use of perampanel in this study of ALS was limited by its poor tolerability.
Thin-Sectioned Otoliths Reveal Sexual Dimorphism and a 10-Year Lifespan in the Endangered Pahrump Poolfish
Authors: Lackmann Alec R. , Kettelhut Storm , Paulson Brandon L. , Anderson Cody M. , Goodchild Shawn C. , Guadalupe Kevin D. , Stockwell Craig A.
Published: July 2021

Basic life history information can be useful for informing the management of protected species such as the Pahrump Poolfish Empetrichthys latos, a goodeid (Cyprinodontiformes) that is endemic to the Mojave Desert in southern Nevada, USA, and the last surviving remnant of Empetrichthys. Critically endangered and extirpated from its native range, Pahrump Poolfish has been managed among constructed refuge habitats since 1971. To better understand sex-specific age demographics, we used thin-sectioned otoliths to age 121 Pahrump Poolfish from one population, collected in June 2017. These samples suggested a maximum age of 10 years for females and 7 years for males, with a substantial portion of all fish greater than 4 years old. This is more than twice the previously reported maximum age for this species. We report on the inadequacy of reading whole otoliths, opercula, and scales for age analysis of this species. Based on thin-sectioned otoliths, we also model growth in length as a function of age among individuals. We found significant sexual dimorphism across this fish’s ontogeny, which has implications for selecting an appropriate sex ratio for founding populations.
Frontline nurses' experiences of working in a COVID‐19 ward–A qualitative study
Authors: Specht Kirsten , Primdahl Jette , Jensen Hanne Irene , Elkjær Mette , Hoffmann Eva , Boye Lilian Keene , Thude Bettina Ravnborg
Published: July 2021

Aim

To explore how nurses experienced working in a newly organized COVID‐19 ward with high‐risk patients during a new and unknown pandemic.

Design

A qualitative explorative study using a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach.

Methods

Semi‐structured individual telephone interviews were conducted in June–July 2020 with 23 nurses working in COVID‐19 wards from three regional hospitals in Denmark. The nurses had been transferred from other departments at their hospital to the newly organized COVID‐19 wards. Data analysis was influenced by Paul Ricoeur's theory of narrative and interpretation, including three analytical levels: naïve reading, structural analysis and critical interpretation and discussion.

Results

During the structural analysis four themes were generated: (a) Challenging and uncertain situation, but also a positive experience (b) Professional and personal development (c) Lack of nurses' rights during a pandemic (d) Reward in itself or a desire for financial reward.
A child‐centered health dialogue for the prevention of obesity in child health services in Sweden – A randomized controlled trial including an economic evaluation
Authors: Derwig Mariette , Tiberg Irén , Björk Jonas , Welander Tärneberg Anna , Hallström Inger Kristensson
Published: July 2021

Background

Prevention of child obesity is an international public health priority and believed to be effective when started in early childhood. Caregivers often ask for an early and structured response from health professionals when their child is identified with overweight, yet cost‐effective interventions for children aged 2–6 years and their caregivers in Child Health Services are lacking.

Objectives

To evaluate the effects and cost‐effectiveness of a child‐centered health dialogue in the Child Health Services in Sweden on 4‐year‐old children with normal weight and overweight.

Methods

Thirty‐seven Child Health Centers were randomly assigned to deliver intervention or usual care. The primary outcome was zBMI‐change.

Results

A total of 4598 children with normal weight (zBMI: 0.1 [SD = 0.6] and 490 children with overweight (zBMI: 1.6 [SD = 0.3]) (mean age: 4.1 years [SD = 0.1]; 49% females) were included. At follow‐up, at a mean age of 5.1 years [SD = 0.1], there was no intervention effect on zBMI‐change for children with normal weight. Children with overweight in the control group increased zBMI by 0.01 ± 0.50, while children in the intervention group decreased zBMI by 0.08 ± 0.52. The intervention effect on zBMI‐change for children with overweight was –0.11, with a 95% confidence interval of –0.24 to 0.01 (p = 0.07). The estimated additional costs of the Child‐Centered Health Dialogue for children with overweight were 167 euros per child with overweight and the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was 183 euros per 0.1 zBMI unit prevented.

Conclusions

This low‐intensive multicomponent child‐centered intervention for the primary prevention of child obesity did not show statistical significant effects on zBMI, but is suggested to be cost‐effective with the potential to be implemented universally in the Child Health Services. Future studies should investigate the impact of socio‐economic factors in universally implemented obesity prevention programs.
Modeling of density of state forpolyethylene–nanotubesnanocomposites
Authors: Kessaissia Karima , Ali Benamara Abdelkader , Lounis Mourad
Published: July 2021

At the nanoscale system, the efficiency of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforcement between the CNTs and polymer matrices in terms of interfacial load transferring is assessed for both nonfunctionalized and functionalized interfaces. The simulations of the mechanical properties (stress–strain) of polyethylene (PE)/CNT nanocomposites by the molecular dynamics are currently an area of discussion in the literature. In this work, PE considered as a thermoplastic material is studied, in which the characterization of its nanoscale load transfer has been carried out through the classification of representative nanoscale interface elements for nonfunctionalized CNTs for the diverse values of lengths and diameters. First, the main evaluations based on the density functional theory and the molecular dynamics method were used with the aim to examine the effect of PE monomers. Then, the effect of the diameter of CNTs with nonfunctionalization content on the electronic and mechanical properties of single‐walled carbon nanotubes was examined. The findings reveal that the density of states highlights the absence of orbital hybridization between the PE monomers and nanotubes, whereas the Mulliken charge analysis depicts that the PE polymer produces a positive charge that is directly proportional to the number of monomers with many chains of PE and different diameters of CNTs. The decrease in diameters implies an increase in nanocomposites stress. In addition, the results show that the reinforcements in the longitudinal direction are more promising than those in the transverse direction.
Amidinothiourea‐linked covalent organic framework for the adsorption of heavy metal ions
Authors: Wang Heping , Feng Bang , Zhang Qianwen , Du Qiang , Bai Qiuhong , Li Cong , Shen Yehua
Published: July 2021

For the first time, a novel amidinothiourea‐linked covalent organic framework (COF) (TpAt) has been successfully synthesized by the condensation between 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol and amidinothiourea via vacuum solvothermal reaction, and was further utilized for the adsorption of metal ions from aqueous solution. The effects of initial concentration, pH and contact time on the adsorption process were investigated. As a result, the TpAt COF showed maximum binding capacities as high as 95.44, 100.76 and 99.08 mg g–1 for Cr(III), Cd(II) and Cu(II) within 180 min at the initial concentration of 100 mg L–1, respectively. The isotherms of metal ions onto TpAt could be described by the Freundlich isotherm equation, and the adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo‐second‐order model. The TpAt could be reused for more than five adsorption–elution cycles, whilst basically maintaining its original adsorption performance and the structural integrity of the COF layers. The robust adsorption efficiency can be attributed to the coordination between metal ions and N, O and S atoms in the TpAt framework. The TpAt COF represents an ideal candidate for the removal of heavy metal ions in environmental pollution treatment. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Douglas‐fir LEAFY COTYLEDON1 (PmLEC1) is an active transcription factor during zygotic and somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Vetrici Mariana A. , Yevtushenko Dmytro P. , Misra Santosh
Published: July 2021

Douglas‐fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is one of the world's premier lumber species and somatic embryogenesis (SE) is the most promising method for rapid propagation of superior tree genotypes. The development and optimization of SE protocols in conifers is hindered by a lack of knowledge of the molecular basis of embryogenesis and limited sequence data. In Arabidopsis, the LEAFY COTYLEDON1 (AtLEC1) gene is a master regulator of embryogenesis that induces SE when expressed ectopically. We isolated the LEC1 homologue from Douglas‐fir, designated as PmLEC1. PmLEC1 expression in somatic embryos and developing seeds demonstrated a unique, alternating pattern of expression with the highest levels during early stages of embryogenesis. PmLEC1 protein accumulation during seed development correlated with its transcriptional levels during early embryogenesis; however, substantial protein levels persisted until 2 weeks on germination medium. Treatment of mature, stratified seeds with 2,4‐epibrassinolide, sorbitol, mannitol, or NaCl upregulated PmLEC1 expression, which may provide strategies to induce SE from mature tissues. Sequence analysis of the PmLEC1 gene revealed a 5′ UTR intron containing binding sites for transcription factors (TFs), such as ABI3, LEC2, FUS3, and AGL15, which are critical regulators of embryogenesis in angiosperms. Regulatory elements for these and other seed‐specific TFs and biotic and abiotic signals were identified within the PmLEC1 locus. Most importantly, functional analysis of PmLEC1 showed that it rescued the Arabidopsis lec1‐1 null mutant and, in the T2 generation, led to the development of embryo‐like structures, indicating a key role of PmLEC1 in the regulation of embryogenesis.
Pulmonary hypertension in the child with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Malloy Kelsey W. , Austin Eric D.
Published: July 2021

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common chronic lung disease of prematurity resulting from complex interactions of perinatal factors that often lead to prolonged respiratory support and increased pulmonary morbidity. There is also growing appreciation for the dysmorphic pulmonary bed characterized by vascular growth arrest and remodeling, resulting in pulmonary vascular disease and its most severe form, pulmonary hypertension (PH) in children with BPD. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the pathophysiology of PH in children with BPD, evaluate the current recommendations for screening and diagnosis of PH, discern associated comorbid conditions, and outline the current treatment options.
Shifts in amino acid preferences as proteins evolve: A synthesis of experimental and theoretical work
Authors: Youssef Noor , Susko Edward , Roger Andrew J. , Bielawski Joseph P.
Published: July 2021

Amino acid preferences vary across sites and time. While variation across sites is widely accepted, the extent and frequency of temporal shifts are contentious. Our understanding of the drivers of amino acid preference change is incomplete: To what extent are temporal shifts driven by adaptive versus nonadaptive evolutionary processes? We review phenomena that cause preferences to vary (e.g., evolutionary Stokes shift, contingency, and entrenchment) and clarify how they differ. To determine the extent and prevalence of shifted preferences, we review experimental and theoretical studies. Analyses of natural sequence alignments often detect decreases in homoplasy (convergence and reversions) rates, and variation in replacement rates with time—signals that are consistent with temporally changing preferences. While approaches inferring shifts in preferences from patterns in natural alignments are valuable, they are indirect since multiple mechanisms (both adaptive and nonadaptive) could lead to the observed signal. Alternatively, site‐directed mutagenesis experiments allow for a more direct assessment of shifted preferences. They corroborate evidence from multiple sequence alignments, revealing that the preference for an amino acid at a site varies depending on the background sequence. However, shifts in preferences are usually minor in magnitude and sites with significantly shifted preferences are low in frequency. The small yet consistent perturbations in preferences could, nevertheless, jeopardize the accuracy of inference procedures, which assume constant preferences. We conclude by discussing if and how such shifts in preferences might influence widely used time‐homogenous inference procedures and potential ways to mitigate such effects.
Assessment of protein model structure accuracy estimation in CASP14: Old and new challenges
Authors: Kwon Sohee , Won Jonghun , Kryshtafovych Andriy , Seok Chaok
Published: July 2021

In CASP, blind testing of model accuracy estimation methods has been conducted on models submitted by tertiary structure prediction servers. In CASP14, model accuracy estimation results were evaluated in terms of both global and local structure accuracy, as in the previous CASPs. Unlike the previous CASPs that did not show pronounced improvements in performance, the best single‐model method (from the Baker group) showed an improved performance in CASP14, particularly in evaluating global structure accuracy when compared to both the best single‐model methods in previous CASPs and the best multi‐model methods in the current CASP. Although the CASP14 experiment on model accuracy estimation did not deal with the structures generated by AlphaFold2, new challenges that have arisen due to the success of AlphaFold2 are discussed.
Processed reactive metal particulate combustibility
Authors: Zalosh Robert
Published: July 2021

Besides the usual particulate combustibility sensitivity to composition and particle size, processed metal particulate combustibility also depends on processing and handling complications, including additives and impurities, which can alter the particle morphology and surface oxide layer characteristics. These other complications render it difficult to generalize reactive processed particulate combustibility properties without testing to provide accurate property data. Examples of these considerations are given with regard to explosibility data for processed/waste particulate of different size and shape and moisture/additive levels for aluminum, manganese, titanium, and zirconium. As an example of the enormous variations in explosibility for these materials and particles, the data for normalized rate‐of‐pressure‐rise, Kst, for aluminum particulate range from 2 to 658 bar‐m/s.
Fabrication of Detonation Nanodiamonds Containing Silicon‐Vacancy Color Centers by High Temperature Annealing
Authors: Shimazaki Konosuke , Kawaguchi Hiroki , Takashima Hideaki , Segawa Takuya Fabian , So Frederick T.-K. , Terada Daiki , Onoda Shinobu , Ohshima Takeshi , Shirakawa Masahiro , Takeuchi Shigeki
Published: July 2021

Detonation nanodiamonds (DNDs) with sizes below 10 nm have attracted attention as single photon emitters with potential in many research fields from life sciences to quantum technologies. However, while nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) color centers are found in nanodiamonds directly after the detonation synthesis without the need for irradiation or annealing, silicon‐vacancy (SiV) color centers are not present in these pristine samples. Herein, SiV centers are created in DNDs by an annealing treatment up to 1100 °C in high vacuum. As silicon is not added, the precursor of the SiV centers must be pristine silicon impurities inside the nanodiamond lattice. A sharp emission line at the wavelength of 737 nm with a linewidth of 7.7 nm is observed in DNDs that are electron irradiated before annealing. This wavelength is consistent with the characteristic emission line of SiV centers and its linewidth is comparable with that in larger nanodiamonds created by chemical vapor deposition and subsequent milling. The average lifetime (0.4 ± 0.04 ns) of the fluorescence, which is in the range of reported lifetimes in nanodiamonds, also support that the observed emission peak are due to SiV centers in DNDs.
The Auxetic Behavior of a General Star‐4 Structure
Authors: Farrugia Pierre-Sandre , Gatt Ruben , Attard Daphne , Attenborough Frances Ruth , Evans Ken E. , Grima Joseph N.
Published: July 2021

An analytical model for a general Star‐4 system, having different ligament lengths, angles, and ligament thickness, is derived using Castigliano's second theorem. The analytical model is validated through finite element analysis and experimental work. The results obtained show that, depending on the parameters used, the general Star‐4 system can show a wide range of Poisson's ratios with the potential of obtaining giant negative Poisson's ratios (in the order of −8) for certain conformations. The wide range of Poisson's ratio is explained in terms of the different geometrical conformations obtainable by the system, where the star‐ligaments can also describe rhombi, irregular octagons, rectangles, and accordion‐like systems, together with changes in the deformation mechanism due to variations in parameters. For example, if one set of star‐ligaments is much thicker than the other, the deformation of the star would be akin to that of the hexagonal reentrant unit cell.
Employing Equivalent Circuit Models to Study the Performance of Selenium‐Based Solar Cells with Polymers as Hole Transport Layers
Authors: Liu Wenbo , Yu Fei , Fan Weijun , Li Wei‐shi , Zhang Qichun
Published: July 2021

Selenium(Se)‐based solar cells (SSCs), known as one of the oldest solar cells, have regained intense attention due to the advantages of Se including direct bandgap, good stability, and single absorber. Among all kinds of device structures, conventional n‐i‐p SSCs with top organic hole transport layers (HTLs) show great potential since organic HTLs could be well‐designed to smoothly extract holes from the Se single absorber and protect the Se surface. However, till now, the performance of Se solar cells with organic HTLs is not as good as expected. To address this issue, herein, the SSCs are first presented with organic polymers as the HTLs with the improved efficiency up to 4.3%, which is the highest one in organic HTLs‐based SSCs. Additionally, comparing with perovskite solar cells, it is found that the recombination process is the key factor that influences the performance of SSCs. It is believed that the further optimization of the Se active layer and the design of new and suitable organic HTLs for SSCs should be the main focus to suppress the undesired recombination processes of Se films. Such realization would boost the efficiency of the as‐fabricated SSCs.
High Interfacial‐Energy and Lithiophilic Janus Interphase Enables Stable Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Li Guoxing , Liu Shipeng , Liu Zhe , Zhao Yingjie
Published: July 2021

The stability of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers is critical for developing lithium (Li) metal batteries. However, the fabrication of stable SEI layers is plagued by un‐controlled structures, properties, and functions. Here a controllable design of an ordered LiF‐rich and lithiophilic hybrid Janus interphase (LiF‐HJI) is reported using organic fluorination reagent as a functional SEI precursor. The LiF‐HJI with a lower crystalline LiF layer and an upper Li organosulfide layer provides high interfacial energy with the Li metal and strong Li‐ion affinity, allows homogenous Li‐ion distribution, fast and uniform Li‐ion transport, and excellent mechanical and passivation properties, enabling stable Li metal anodes under harsh conditions, such as high deposition capacities (6 mA h cm−2), current densities (10 mA cm−2), and rates (5 C). Stable LiF‐HJI@Li greatly improves cycling stability and capacity retention (80.1% after 300 cycles) of Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cells at a commercial‐level areal capacity (≈4.2 mA h cm−2). Even under a lean‐electrolyte condition of 3 g Ah−1, 80% capacity retention can be maintained after 100 cycles, demonstrating excellent cycling performance under such harsh conditions.
Single‐Atom Doping and High‐Valence State for Synergistic Enhancement of NiO Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Liu Meng , Ji Yujin , Li Youyong , An Pengfei , Zhang Jing , Yan Junqing , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: July 2021

The NiO‐based electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) of water splitting is recognized as a promising approach to produce clean H2 fuel. However, the OER performance is still low, and especially, the overpotential is larger than 200 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2. Herein, an Ir@IrNiO sample is prepared with single‐atom (SA) Ir4+ doping and surface metallic Ir nanoparticles loaded onto the NiO. Owing to the bonding of the loaded Ir with surface‐exposed Ni2+, the nearby Ni atoms exist in the +3 valence state, that is, the surface‐loaded Ir particles behave like a stabilizer for the Ni3+ sites. Under the synergistic effect of SA Ir4+ and high‐valance‐state Ni3+, the Ir@IrNiO nanostructure effectively reduces the overpotential to 195 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Moreover, it gives an Ir‐content‐normalized current density of 0.0457 A mgIr−1, 72.1 times higher than that of the best commercialized IrO2 (6.33 × 10−4 A mgIr−1), under the condition of 1.5 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. Operando Raman and X‐ray absorption fine‐structure (XAFS) measurements reveal that there are more surface‐active species of Ni3+, which adsorb and activate water molecules to form Ni3+–*OH at low voltage, the intermediate of Ni4+–•O is then formed at a relatively high bias voltage, and then the •O is transferred to the SA Ir4+ sites to generate Ir4+–O–O with OH at increased voltage. This work can help design more SA‐based highly active OER materials.
Efficient Hole Transfer via CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots Doping toward High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Miao Weiqiang , Guo Chuanhang , Li Donghui , Li Teng , Wang Pang , Yang Yujie , Liu Dan , Wang Tao
Published: July 2021

Among the emerging photovoltaic technologies, organic and perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) solar cells have thrived on low‐cost processing and extraordinary optoelectronic properties. Herein, CsPbBr3 PQDs are incorporated into PM6:Y6‐BO organic solar cell (OSC) to enhance device efficiency without scarifying the device stability. While the incorporation of PQDs has no impact on the molecular packing and phase separation of organic semiconductors, their presence enhances light absorption due to the Rayleigh scattering effect, promotes exciton dissociation in the Y6‐BO phase, and forms an efficient hole transfer pathway from Y6‐BO to PQDs and then to PM6 to improve hole transport. These contribute to increased short‐circuit current density (JSC) and fill factor (FF) of OSCs with constant VOC. With the presence of 1 wt% CsPbBr3 PQDs doping, the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the corresponding PM6:Y6‐BO OSC is improved from 16.4% to 17.1%, where the device stability has not been affected due to the better phase stability of CsPbBr3 PQDs than CsPbI3 PQDs. This work unravels a new approach to enhance the efficiency of OSCs by applying PQDs doping to manipulate the photon‐to‐electricity conversion process.
Investigation of Alloy‐Dependent Occurrence of Ferromagnetism in Carbon‐Expanded Austenitic Steel after Low‐Temperature Surface Hardening
Authors: Schuler Philipp , Krupp Ulrich , Gümpel Paul , Mayer Joachim , Schwedt Alexander , Aretz Anke
Published: July 2021

Ferromagnetism is of increasing importance in the growing field of electromobility and data storage. In stable austenitic steels, the occurrence of ferromagnetism is not expected and would also interfere with many applications. However, ferromagnetism in austenitic stainless steels after low‐temperature nitriding has already been shown in the past. Herein, the presence of ferromagnetism in austenitic steels is discovered after low‐temperature carburization (Kolsterizing), which represents a novel and unique finding. A zone of expanded austenite is established on various austenitic stainless steels by low‐temperature carburization and the respective ferromagnetism is investigated in relation to the alloy composition. The ferromagnetism occurring is determined by means of a commercial magnetoinductive sensor (Feritscope). Ferromagnetic domains are visualized by magnetic force microscopy and a ferrofluid. X‐ray diffraction measurements indicate a clear difference in the lattice expansion of the different alloys. Furthermore, a different appearance of the magnetizable microstructure regions (magnetic domain structure) is detected depending on the grain orientation determined by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Strongly pronounced magnetic domains show no linear lattice defects, whereas in small magnetizable areas linear lattice defects are detected by electron channeling contrast imaging and EBSD.
Subjective cognitive decline higher among sexual and gender minorities in the United States, 2015–2018
Authors: Flatt Jason D. , Cicero Ethan C. , Lambrou Nickolas H. , Wharton Whitney , Anderson Joel G. , Bouldin Erin D. , McGuire Lisa C. , Taylor Christopher A.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) represents self‐reported problems with memory, a possible early sign of dementia. Little is known about SCD among sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender or gender non‐binary.

Methods

Data were weighted to represent population estimates from 25 states’ 2015–2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to describe SCD in adults ≥45 years by SGM status. Logistic regression tested associations between demographic and health conditions.

Results

SCD prevalence was higher in SGM (15.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI]:13.1–18.2) than in non‐SGM adults (10.5%; 95% CI:10.1–10.9; P < .0001). SGM adults with SCD were also more likely to report functional limitations due to SCD than non‐SGM adults with SCD, 60.8% versus 47.8%, P = .0048. Differences in SCD by SGM status were attenuated after accounting for depression.

Discussion

Higher prevalence of SCD in SGM adults highlights the importance of ensuring inclusive screenings, interventions, care services, and resources for SGM adults.