bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wnt5a promotes hippocampal postsynaptic development and GluN2B-induced expression via the eIF2α HRI kinase
Authors: Ramos-Fernández Eva , Arrázola Macarena S. , Oliva Carolina A. , Arredondo Sebastián B. , Varela-Nallar Lorena , Inestrosa Nibaldo C.
Published: April 2021

Wnt signaling plays a key role in neurodevelopment and neuronal maturation. Specifically, Wnt5a stimulates postsynaptic assemblies, increases glutamatergic neurotransmission and, through calcium signaling, generates nitric oxide (NO). Trying to unveil the molecular pathway triggering these postsynaptic effects, we found that Wnt5a treatment induces a time-dependent increases in the length of the postsynaptic density (PSD), elicits novel synaptic contacts and facilitates F-actin flow both in in vitro and ex vivo models. These effects were partially abolished by the inhibition of the Heme-regulated eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (HRI) kinase, a kinase which phosphorylates the initiation translational factor eIF2α. When phosphorylated, eIF2α normally avoids the translation of proteins not needed during stress conditions, in order to avoid unnecessary energetic expenses. However, phosphorylated eIF2α promotes the translation of some proteins with more than one open reading frame in its 5′ untranslated region. One of these proteins targeted by Wnt-HRI-eIF2α mediated translation is the GluN2B subunit of the NMDA receptor. The identified increase in GluN2B expression correlated with increased NMDA receptor function. Considering that NMDA receptors are crucial for excitatory synaptic transmission, the molecular pathway described here contributes to the understanding of the fast and plastic translational mechanisms activated during learning and memory processes.
A novel cochlear measurement that predicts inner-ear malformation
Authors: Khurayzi Tawfiq , Almuhawas Fida , Alsanosi Abdulrahman , Abdelsamad Yassin , Doyle Úna , Dhanasingh Anandhan
Published: April 2021

The A-value used in cochlear duct length (CDL) estimation does not take malformed cochleae into consideration. The objective was to determine the A-value reported in the literature, to assess the accuracy of the A-value measurement and to evaluate a novel cochlear measurement in distinguishing malformed cochlea. High resolution Computer Tomography images in the oblique coronal plane/cochlear view of 74 human temporal bones were analyzed. The A-value and novel C-value measurement were evaluated as predictors of inner ear malformation type. The proximity of the facial nerve to the basal turn was evaluated subjectively. 26 publications report on the A-value; but they do not distinguish normal vs. malformed cochleae. The A-values of the normal cochleae compared to the cochleae with cochlear hypoplasia, incomplete partition (IP) type I, -type II, and -type III were significantly different. The A-value does not predict the C-value. The C-values of the normal cochleae compared to the cochleae with IP type I and IP type III were significantly different. The proximity of the facial nerve to the basal turn did not relate to the type of malformation. The A-value is different in normal vs. malformed cochleae. The novel C-value could be used to predict malformed anatomy, although it does not distinguish all malformation types.
Combining P and Zn fertilization to enhance yield and grain quality in maize grown on Mediterranean soils
Authors: Sánchez-Rodríguez Antonio Rafael , Rey María-Dolores , Nechate-Drif Hasna , Castillejo María Ángeles , Jorrín-Novo Jesús V. , Torrent José , del Campillo María Carmen , Sacristán Daniel
Published: April 2021

The main aim of this study was to elucidate the effect of individual and joint fertilization with P and Zn on maize plants grown on typical Mediterranean soils with a limited Zn availability. For this purpose, we examined the effects of P and Zn fertilization individually and in combination on growth, yield and grain protein content in maize grown in pots filled with three different Mediterranean soils (LCV, FER and INM). Phosphorus and Zn translocation to grain was impaired, and aboveground dry matter and yield at harvest reduced by 8–85% (LCV and FER), in plants treated with Zn or P alone relative to unfertilized (control) plants. In contrast, joint fertilization with P and Zn enhanced translocation of these nutrients to grain and significantly increased aboveground dry matter (30% in LCV, 50% in FER and 250% in INM) and grain Zn availability in comparison with control plants. Also, joint application of both nutrients significantly increased grain P (LCV) and Zn (LCV and FER) use efficiency relative P and Zn, respectively, alone. Yield was increased between 31% in LCV and 121% in FER relative to control plants, albeit not significantly. Fertilization with P or Zn significantly influenced the abundance of specific proteins affecting grain quality (viz., storage, lys-rich and cell wall proteins), which were more abundant in mature grains from plants fertilized with Zn alone and, to a lesser extent, P + Zn. Sustainable strategies in agriculture should consider P–Zn interactions in maize grown on soils with a limited availability of Zn, where Zn fertilization is crucial to ensure grain quality.
Biosafety and efficacy evaluation of a biodegradable magnesium-based drug-eluting stent in porcine coronary artery
Authors: Zhu Jinzhou , Zhang Xiyuan , Niu Jialin , Shi Yongjuan , Zhu Zhengbin , Dai Daopeng , Chen Chenxin , Pei Jia , Yuan Guangyin , Zhang Ruiyan
Published: April 2021

Although the drug-eluting stent (DES) has become the standard for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-based revascularization, concerns remain regarding the use of DES, mainly due to its permanent rigid constraint to vessels. A drug-eluting bioresorbable stent (BRS) was thus developed as an alternative to DES, which can be absorbed entirely after its therapeutic period. Magnesium (Mg)-based BRSs have attracted a great deal of attention due to their suitable mechanical properties, innovative chemical features, and well-proven biocompatibility. However, the primary disadvantage of Mg-based BRSs is the rapid degradation rate, resulting in the early loss of structural support long before the recovery of vascular function. Recently, a new type of patented Mg–Nd–Zn-Zr alloy (JDBM) was developed at Shanghai Jiao Tong University to reduce the degradation rate compared to commercial Mg alloys. In the present investigation, a poly(d,l-lactic acid)-coated and rapamycin eluting (PDLLA/RAPA) JDBM BRS was prepared, and its biosafety and efficacy for coronary artery stenosis were evaluated via in vitro and in vivo experiments. The degree of smooth muscle cell adhesion to the PDLLA/RAPA coated alloy and the rapamycin pharmacokinetics of JDBM BRS were first assessed in vitro. JDBM BRS and commercial DES FIREHAWK were then implanted in the coronary arteries of a porcine model. Neointimal hyperplasia was evaluated at 30, 90, and 180 days, and re-endothelialization was evaluated at 30 days. Furthermore, Micro-CT and optical coherence tomography (OCT) analyses were performed 180 days after stent implantation to evaluate the technical feasibility, biocompatibility, and degradation characteristics of JDBM BRS in vivo. The results show the ability of a PDLLA/RAPA coated JDBM to inhibit smooth muscle cell adhesion and moderate the drug release rate of JDBM BRS in vitro. In vivo, low local and systemic risks of JDBM BRS were demonstrated in the porcine model, with preserved mechanical integrity after 6 months of implantation. We also showed that this novel BRS was associated with a similar efficacy profile compared with standard DES and high anti-restenosis performance. These findings may confer long term advantages for using this BRS over a traditional DES.
Attenuation of sensory processing in the primary somatosensory cortex during rubber hand illusion
Authors: Sakamoto Masanori , Ifuku Hirotoshi
Published: April 2021

The neural representation of the body is easily altered by the integration of multiple sensory signals in the brain. The “rubber hand illusion” (RHI) is one of the most popular experimental paradigms to investigate this phenomenon. During this illusion, a feeling of ownership of the rubber hand is created. Some studies have shown that somatosensory processing in the brain is attenuated when RHI occurs. However, it is unknown where attenuation of somatosensory processing occurs. Here, we show that somatosensory processing is attenuated in the primary somatosensory cortex. We found that the earliest response of somatosensory evoked potentials, which is thought to originate from the primary somatosensory cortex, was attenuated during RHI. Furthermore, this attenuation was observed before the occurrence of the illusion. Our results suggest that attenuation of sensory processing in the primary somatosensory cortex is one of the factors influencing the occurrence of the RHI.
Baseline characteristics of myopic choroidal neovascularization in patients above 50 years old and prognostic factors after intravitreal conbercept treatment
Authors: Wang Hai-Yan , Tao Meng-Zhang , Wang Xi-Xi , Li Man-Hong , Zhang Zi-Feng , Sun Dong-Jie , Zhu Jin-Ting , Wang Yu-Sheng
Published: April 2021

To investigate the influence of age on the function and morphology of patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) and to evaluate the effect and prognostic factors of recurrence of Conbercept treatment on mCNV patients over 50 years. A total of 64 patients (64 eyes) with mCNV were enrolled in this retrospective study. The differences in baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and morphological features on imaging between the younger group (˂ 50 years) and the older group (≥ 50 years) were analyzed. Of all, 21 eyes of 21 mCNV patients aged over 50 years who received Conbercept injection were further analyzed. Between the younger and the older group, significant differences were shown in mean BCVA (0.58 ± 0.28 vs 0.77 ± 0.31), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) (108.17 ± 78.32 μm vs 54.68 ± 39.03 μm) and frequency of vitreoretinal interface abnormalities (VIA) (2 vs 13), respectively (P < 0.05). After treated with Conbercept, the mean BCVA of 21 older mCNV patients increased from 0.83 ± 0.30 at baseline to 0.49 ± 0.24 at one year. Baseline BCVA, external limiting membrane damage, CNV area and CNV location correlated with the visual acuity at the 1-year follow-up. There were 7 (33.3%) recurrent cases during the follow-up and the risk of recurrence in patients with baseline central macular thickness (CMT) ≥ 262.86 μm was 14 times greater than that of patients with CMT < 262.86 μm. The risk of recurrence increased 1.84 times for every 100-μm increment in the CMT. Patients over 50 years with mCNV had a worse BCVA, thinner choroid, and higher risk of VIA than young mCNV patients. The standard Conbercept treatment strategy was safe and effective in mCNV patients over 50 years. As patients over 50 years with a greater CMT have a high risk of recurrence, more attention should be paid on these patients by following them up closely.
The change in plasma D-dimer does not help to guide the timing of reimplantation in two stage exchange for periprosthetic joint infection
Authors: Ackmann Thomas , Schwarze Jan , Gosheger Georg , Schmidt-Braekling Tom , Schneider Kristian Nikolaus , Dieckmann Ralf , Klingebiel Sebastian , Moellenbeck Burkhard , Theil Christoph
Published: April 2021

D-dimer has been included in the criteria by the Musculoskeletal Infection Society in 2018 as a novel parameter to diagnose prosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, it is unclear how D-dimer levels change in between stages of a two-stage exchange. We prospectively investigated 30 patients who underwent a two-stage exchange using a spacer for PJI. D-Dimer, CRP and IL-6 were collected before first and second stage surgery and the difference (Δ) in between stages was calculated. The levels of plasma D-Dimer did not change from first to second stage surgery (2770 ng/ml (IQR, 1600–3770 ng/ml) versus 2340 ng/ml (IQR, 1270–4100 ng/ml); p = 0.8) while CRP (4.0 mg/dl (IQR, 1.7–5.5 mg/dl) versus 0.6 mg/dl (IQR, 0.5–0.8 mg/dl); p < 0.001) and IL-6 (21 pg/ml (IQR, 10–29 pg/ml) versus 6 pg/ml (4–9 pg/ml); p < 0.001) decreased. The ΔD-dimer between both stages was 300 ng/ml (range: − 2820 to 4280 ng/ml), the median ΔCRP was − 3.4 mg/dl (IQR, − 1.2 to − 4.8 mg/dl) and ΔIL-6 was − 13 pg/ml (IQR, − 4 to − 20 pg/ml). In 15 of 30 cases (50%) the D-dimer level increased between both stages, whereas the level of CRP (93%; 28/30) and IL-6 (96%; 28/29) decreased in most patients. As the level of serum D-dimers varies greatly, lacks a uniform decrease and does not identify persisting infection, surgeons should be cautious when using it at the timing of reimplantation.
New cassava germplasm for food and nutritional security in Central Africa
Authors: Tize Isaac , Fotso Apollin Kuate , Nukenine Elias Nchiwan , Masso Cargele , Ngome Francis Ajebesone , Suh Christopher , Lendzemo Venasius Wirnkar , Nchoutnji Ibrahim , Manga Gabriel , Parkes Elisabeth , Kulakow Peter , Kouebou Christiant , Fiaboe Komi K. M. , Hanna Rachid
Published: April 2021

Cassava is a key food security crop in Central Africa, but its production depends largely on the use of local farmers’ varieties characterized by inherently low yield which is compounded by generally high susceptibility to various growth and yield-limiting pests and diseases. Improved cassava genotypes have demonstrated the potential to substantially improve cassava’s contribution to food security and the development of the cassava industry and the improvement of nutrition status elsewhere in Western Africa. Eleven improved cassava genotypes were compared with a local landrace (LMR) used as a check under field conditions over two years in eight locations, grouped in four agro-ecologies in Cameroon. Pest and disease abundance/incidence and damage severity were evaluated. At harvest, root yield and carotenoid content were measured. Best linear unbiased predictors showed the lowest breeding value for LMR with the cassava mosaic virus disease (+ 66.40 ± 2.42) compared with 1.00 ± 0.02% for the most susceptible improved genotype. Two genotypes (I010040-27 and I011797) stood out for having higher predicted fresh root yield means which were at least 16 times greater compared with LMR. Predicted total carotenoid content was the highest (+ 5.04 ± 0.17) for improved genotype I070593 compared with LMR which showed the lowest (− 3.90 ± 0.06%) and could contribute to the alleviation of vitamin A deficiency from cassava-based food systems. Diffusion of high-yielding and nutritious genotypes could alleviate food and nutritional security in Central Africa.
Uric acid shown to contribute to increased oxidative stress level independent of xanthine oxidoreductase activity in MedCity21 health examination registry
Authors: Kurajoh Masafumi , Fukumoto Shinya , Yoshida Shio , Akari Seigo , Murase Takayo , Nakamura Takashi , Ishii Haruka , Yoshida Hisako , Nagata Yuki , Morioka Tomoaki , Mori Katsuhito , Imanishi Yasuo , Hirata Kazuto , Emoto Masanori
Published: April 2021

Uric acid has both antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties in vitro by scavenging and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS).This cross-sectional study examined whether uric acid possesses effects on oxidative stress under physiological conditions independent of xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR), which is involved in uric acid and ROS production. Serum uric acid level was measured, while plasma XOR activity was determined using our high-sensitive assay in 192 participants (91 males, 101 females) who underwent health examinations and were not taking an antihyperuricemic agent. For antioxidant potential and oxidative stress level, biological antioxidant potential (BAP) and derivative of reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) in serum, respectively, were measured. Median uric acid level and plasma XOR activity were 5.6 mg/dL and 26.1 pmol/h/mL, respectively, and BAP and d-ROMs levels were 2112.8 μmol/L and 305.5 Carr U, respectively. Multivariable regression analyses revealed no significant association of serum uric acid level with BAP level, whereas serum uric acid level showed a significant association with d-ROMs level independent of plasma XOR activity (p = 0.045), which was prominent in females (p = 0.036;pfor interaction = 0.148). Uric acid might contribute to increased oxidative stress independent of XOR activity by increasing ROS production, without affecting ROS scavenging, especially in females.
Transcriptome analysis reveals the protective role of fructo-oligosaccharide in colonic mucosal barriers in exercise-induced stressed mice
Authors: Cao Wanxiu , Li Robert W. , Chin Yaoxian , Wang Yuming , Xue Changhu , Tang Qingjuan
Published: April 2021

FOS can effectively prevent the dysfunction of colonic mucosal barriers in exercise-induced stress mice.
Metastable Ta2N3 with highly tunable electrical conductivity via oxygen incorporation
Authors: Jiang Chang-Ming , Wagner Laura I. , Horton Matthew K. , Eichhorn Johanna , Rieth Tim , Kunzelmann Viktoria F. , Kraut Max , Li Yanbo , Persson Kristin A. , Sharp Ian D.
Published: April 2021

Metastable Ta2N3 with bixbyite structure is directly deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering. Concerted experimental and computational efforts reveal the crucial role of oxygen impurity in both the synthesis and in tuning the electronic structure.
Simultaneous layer exfoliation and defect activation in g-C3N4 nanosheets with air–water interfacial plasma: spectroscopic defect probing with tailored optical properties
Authors: Kashyap Trishamoni , Boruah Palash J. , Bailung Heremba , Sanyal Dirtha , Choudhury Biswajit
Published: April 2021

Plasma exfoliated ultrathin g-C3N4 nanosheets enriched with nitrogen vacancies and self-incorporated defects show enhanced visible light absorption, facile charge separation, and improved visible-light photocatalysis.
Facile synthesis of micron-size Janus particles by one-pot suspension polymerization and their functional modification
Authors: Tang Tianai , Tu Kai , Xu Xiang , Xie Jian , Zhang Duo , Zhang Zexin , Zhang Lifen , Cheng Zhenping
Published: April 2021

A novel strategy for preparing micron-size Janus particles with easily-functionalized surfaces was established by one-pot W/O/W-type suspension polymerization for the first time.
MOF-74 type variants for CO2 capture
Authors: Choe Jong Hyeak , Kim Hyojin , Hong Chang Seop
Published: April 2021

This review article introduces MOF-74 type variants and their CO2 capture properties in terms of the open metal site and the functional groups on the ligand and open metal sites.
Highly diastereoselective synthesis of vicinal diamines via a Rh-catalyzed three-component reaction of diazo compounds with diarylmethanimines and ketimines
Authors: Zhou Kai , Bao Ming , Sha Hongkai , Dong Guizhi , Hong Kemiao , Xu Xinfang , Hu Wenhao
Published: April 2021

A Rh-catalyzed selective three-component reaction of diazo compounds with diarylmethanimines and ketimines is reported that offers an efficient and convenient access to vicinal diamine derivatives with two tertiary stereocenters in high yields.
Effects of boron nitride nanotube content on waterborne polyurethane–acrylate composite coating materials
Authors: Lee Yong Joon , La Yunju , Jeon Ok Sung , Lee Hak Ji , Shin Min Kyoon , Yang Keun-Hyeok , You Young Joon , Park Sang Yoon
Published: April 2021

Composite coating materials consisting of waterborne polyurethane–acrylate (WPUA) and boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) showed enhanced mechanical properties, thermal properties and chemical resistance.
Non-stackable molecules assemble into porous crystals displaying concerted cavity-changing motions
Authors: Kang Taewon , Kim Hongsik , Jeoung Sungeun , Moon Dohyun , Moon Hoi Ri , Lee Dongwhan
Published: April 2021

Like non-collapsible open voids within stacks of steel H-beams, a non-covalent assembly of three-dimensional aromatics produces porous crystals. Concerted motions of the molecular H-beams open and close the cavities in response to external stimuli.
Robust selenium-doped carbon nitride nanotubes for selective electrocatalytic oxidation of furan compounds to maleic acid
Authors: Huang Xin , Song Jinliang , Hua Manli , Chen Bingfeng , Xie Zhenbing , Liu Huizhen , Zhang Zhanrong , Meng Qinglei , Han Buxing
Published: April 2021

Biomass-derived furan compounds could be selectively electro-oxidized into maleic acid over a robust selenium-doped carbon nitride nanotube catalyst.
Efficient all-inorganic perovskite light-emitting diodes enabled by manipulating the crystal orientation
Authors: Feng Wenjing , Lin Kebin , Li Wenqiang , Xiao Xiangtian , Lu Jianxun , Yan Chuanzhong , Liu Xinyi , Xie Liqiang , Tian Chengbo , Wu Dan , Wang Kai , Wei Zhanhua
Published: April 2021

center461554Crystal orientation manipulation improves the device performance of all-inorganic perovskite light-emitting diodes.
Exceeding three-electron reactions in Na3+2xMn1+xTi1−x(PO4)3 NASICON cathodes with high energy density for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Jiefei , Lin Kangshou , Zhao Yu , Zhou Yu , Hou Xianhua , Liu Xiang , Lou Hongtao , Lam Kwok-ho , Chen Fuming
Published: April 2021

Atomic-ratio-controlled NASICON structured Na3+2xMn1+xTi1−x(PO4)3 was designed and synthesized, which can significantly increase the energy density and ICE for NM1.15T0.85P, and NM1.2T0.8P, compared with NMTP.
A transparent hydrophilic anti-biofouling coating for intraocular lens materials prepared by “bridging” of the intermediate adhesive layer
Authors: Lan Xiaorong , Lei Yang , He Zhoukun , Yin Anlin , Li Linhua , Tang Zhonglan , Li Meiling , Wang Yunbing
Published: April 2021

The attachment of bio-foulants can lead to implantation failure of intraocular lens (IOL). A facile strategy is provided to prepare a hydrophilic anti-biofouling coating on IOL. A “bridge” can increase the adhesion between the coating and IOL.
Chalcogen Bond versus Weak Hydrogen Bond: Changing Contributions in Determining the Crystal Packing of [1,2,5]-Chalcogenadiazole-Fused Tetracyanonaphthoquinodimethanes
Authors: Ishigaki Yusuke , Asai Kota , Shimajiri Takuya , Akutagawa Tomoyuki , Fukushima Takanori , Suzuki Takanori
Published: April 2021

The crystal structures of a series of tetracyanonaphthoquinodimethanes fused with a selenadiazole or thiadiazole ring revealed that their molecular packing is determined mainly by two intermolecular interactions: chalcogen bond (ChB) and weak hydrogen bond (WHB). ChB between Se and a cyano group dictates the packing of selenadiazole derivatives, whereas the S-based ChB is much weaker and competes with WHB in thiadiazole analogues. This difference can be explained by different electrostatic potentials as revealed by density functional theory calculations. A proper molecular design that weakens WHB can change the contribution of ChB in determining the crystal packing of thiadiazole derivatives.
Unusual Zig-Zag Effect in the Electrochemical Oxidation of Phenyl End-Capped α-Oligothiophenes
Authors: Bold Kevin , Stolte Matthias , Würthner Frank
Published: April 2021

A series of phenyl end-capped α-oligothiophenes containing four to seven thiophene subunits (4T–7T) was synthesized utilizing palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. UV/Vis spectroscopic analysis revealed one broad absorption band that shifts bathochromically with increasing number of thiophene units. Structured emission spectra are observed with Stokes shift ν~4000 cm−1 and quantum yields of up to 53%. End-capping of the oligothiophene molecules by phenyl units does not only extend the effective conjugation but also prevents from α–α-homocoupling upon electrochemical oxidation. Accordingly, reversible redox waves are observed in cyclic voltammetry with up to four reversible one-electron processes for the two longer congeners. Analyses of the first two oxidation processes in the framework of multiredox systems provide insight into the stabilization or destabilization of polaronic and bipolaronic states. An unusual zig-zag trend for the first (and to a lesser extend second) oxidation process could be explained by the sterical encumbrance of solubilizing hexyl chains in 5T and 7T molecules which counteract the formation of a fully planar quinoidal oligothiophene backbone.
Text Messaging Real-Time COVID-19 Clinical Guidance to Hospital Employees
Authors: Williams Cheyenne , Rao Aditi , Ziemba Justin B. , Myers Jennifer S. , Patel Neha
Published: April 2021

Background During the initial days of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, hospital-wide practices rapidly evolved, and hospital employees became a critical population for receiving consistent and timely communication about these changes.

Objectives We aimed to rapidly implement enterprise text messaging as a crisis communication intervention to deliver key COVID-related safety and practice information directly to hospital employees.

Methods Utilizing a secure text-messaging platform already routinely used in direct patient care, we sent 140-character messages containing targeted pandemic-related updates to on-duty hospital employees three times per week for 13 weeks. This innovation was evaluated through the analysis of aggregate “read” receipts from each message. Effectiveness was assessed by rates of occupational exposures to COVID-19 and by two cross-sectional attitudinal surveys administered to all text-message recipients.

Results On average, each enterprise text message was sent to 1,997 on-duty employees. Analysis of “read” receipts revealed that on average, 60% of messages were consistently read within 24 hours of delivery, 34% were read in 2 hours, and 16% were read in 10 minutes. Readership peaked and fell in the first week of messaging but remained consistent throughout the remainder of the intervention. A survey administered after 2 weeks revealed that 163 (79%) users found enterprise texts “valuable,” 152 (73%) users would recommend these texts to their colleagues, and 114 (55%) users preferred texts to email. A second survey at 9 weeks revealed that 109 (80%) users continued to find texts “valuable.” Enterprise messaging, in conjunction with the system's larger communication strategy, was associated with a decrease in median daily occupational exposure events (nine events per day premessaging versus one event per day during messaging).

Conclusion Enterprise text messages sent to hospital-employee smartphones are an efficient and effective strategy for urgent communications. Hospitals may wish to leverage this technology during times of routine operations and crisis management.
Fourier microscopy based on single-pixel imaging for multi-mode dynamic observations of samples
Authors: Peng Junzheng , Yao Manhong , Huang Zhuobin , Zhong Jingang
Published: April 2021

We propose Fourier microscopy based on single-pixel imaging, which uses structured light to computationally illuminate a sample and uses a two-dimensional (2D) pixelated detector to capture the Fourier spectrum image in the back focal plane of the objective. The Fourier spectra collected by different pixels of the detector correspond to light waves diffracted at different angles. Therefore, by regrouping different pixels of the 2D pixelated detector, we built coded single-pixel detectors with different shapes to computationally detect different spectra. Then, we reconstructed multi-mode images using a single-pixel imaging method for dynamic observations. These images have the same field of view, which is more conducive to the comprehensive analysis of samples. Our approach provides a novel development for microscopes and is expected to be widely implemented.
Numerical analysis of optical properties and equivalent electrical circuits of chemically synthesized silver and gold nanospheres
Authors: Abbas G. , Afzaal M. , Nunes F. D. , Naz M. Y. , AbdEl-Salam N. M. , Ibrahim K. A. , Mohamed H. F. , Khan Y.
Published: April 2021

In this study, silver and gold nanospheres were produced in aqueous solution at room temperature. The morphological and optical properties of the nanospheres were studied using scanning electron microscopy and UV–visible spectroscopy. COMSOL Multiphysics software was used to investigate the optical properties, biological properties, and equivalent circuit of chemically synthesized silver and gold nanospheres. Both silver and gold nanospheres were characterized for their surface morphology and optical properties. The optical properties of nanospheres were studied by dispersing them in water and free space as well. The field distribution inside the nanospheres suggested their possible use in anticancer applications. The nanoelements of the equivalent circuits, in the visible domain, were also deduced by using plasmonic and nonplasmonic spheres. Both gold and silver nanospheres have been found to be useful in the design of various components of equivalent electrical circuits. Basic circuit components, including nano-inductors, nano-capacitors, and nano-resistors, have been measured based on optical properties of nanospheres.
Magneto-hydrodynamics (MHD) flow analysis with mixed convection moves through a stretching surface
Authors: Bayones F. S. , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Khan Kashif Ali , Raza Nauman , Hussien Nahed S. , Osman M. S. , Abualnaja Kholod M.
Published: April 2021

The objective of this work is to analyze the impact of magneto-hydrodynamics flow across a stretching layer in the existing magnetic sector. The classifying boundary layer equations are converted to a set of non-linear equations by taking advantage of similarity structures. The transformed scheme is mathematically resolved by the homotopy analysis method. Results are measured numerically and plotted graphically for velocity and temperature distribution. Furthermore, flow and heat transfer effects for different physical parameters such as the stretching parameter, mixed convection parameter, magnetic parameter, heat generation coefficient, and Prandtl number are analyzed. Some physical effects reveal that an increase in the Hartmann number raises the fluid’s boundary layer that shows the reverse phenomena of Lorentz force because the speed of the free stream transcends the stretching surface. Upon verifying the homology of the current study with some past investigations, a good harmony is revealed. The velocity of the fluid flow was initially considered to be an increasing function of heat generation, buoyancy parameter, and magnetic field strength, but it later revealed as a decreasing function of the Prandtl number.
Numerical study of a Whitham equation exhibiting both breaking waves and continuous solutions
Authors: Mortell Michael P. , Mulchrone Kieran F.
Published: April 2021

We consider a Whitham equation as an alternative for the Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) equation in which the third derivative is replaced by the integral of a kernel, i.e., ηxxx in the KdV equation is replaced by ∫−∞∞Kν(x−ξ)ηξ(ξ,t)dξ. The kernel Kν(x) satisfies the conditions limν→∞Kν(x) = δ″(x), where δ(x) is the Dirac delta function and limν→0Kν(x) = 0. The questions studied here, by means of numerical examples, are whether adjustment of the parameter ν produces both continuous solutions and shocks of the kernel equation and how well they represent KdV solutions and solutions of the underlying hyperbolic system. A typical example is for resonant forced oscillations in a closed shallow water tank governed by the kernel equation, which are compared with those governed by a partial differential equation. The continuous solutions of the kernel equation associated with frequency dispersion in the KdV equations limit to the shocks of the shallow water equations as ν → 0. Two experimental problems are solved in a single equation. As another example, suitable adjustment of ν in the kernel equation produces solutions reminiscent of a hydraulic and undular bore.
Mingling art and science opens minds
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: April 2021

Collaborations enrich science communication, visualization, and inspiration.
Chondrilla juncea (rush skeletonweed).
Authors: Thomas Sarah E.
Published: April 2021

C. juncea is a herbaceous biennial or perennial plant native to parts of Western Europe, north Africa and central Asia. It was accidentally introduced into a number of regions around the world as a contaminant of plant material, seed and fodder. C. juncea is invasive in Australia, Argentina, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and a number of states in the USA. C. juncea produces a large tap root which can compete with native plant species for nutrients and water. In Australia and Argentina it is a major problem of wheat fields and can reduce yields by 80%. In the USA, C. juncea is one of the invasive species impacting on the threatened species Silene spaldingii. A number of distinct genotypes of C. juncea exist which makes control of this species difficult. In addition to this, C. juncea is resistant to a large number of herbicides.
Melinis repens (natal redtop).
Authors: Kaufman Sylvan
Published: April 2021

Melinis repens, commonly known as Natal grass, is a short-lived perennial grass native to South Africa, the Arabian peninsula, India, the Seychelles island and Canary Islands. It is already widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions due to its long use as a pasture grass and ornamental plant. Although considered a weed in many countries, it is not currently regulated. Wind disperses the seeds locally and long distance dispersal happens through the plant and seed trade. It mainly occurs in disturbed areas such as along roadsides and railway lines, but it can spread into natural areas interfering with early successional processes. It is mainly considered invasive in natural grasslands and shrublands. Holm et al. (1979) list it as a 'serious' weed in Australia, Brazil and Ghana, and 'principal' in Malaysia and Zambia. The dry biomass of the plant leads to an increase in fire frequencies and its dense growth crowds out native early successional species. Currently the main uses promoted for the plant are for reclaiming mined sites and planting as an ornamental plant.
Anredera baselloides (Madeira vine).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro
Published: April 2021

A. baselloides is an invasive succulent vine capable of smothering and destroying native vegetation. Currently, this species is regarded as an environmental weed in the Dominican Republic and as an agricultural weed in Sri Lanka where it is impacting tea plantations (Ranamukhaarachchi et al., 1997). The species has climbing stems which can totally envelop the canopy layer, reducing light penetration and eventually killing the plants beneath and preventing the germination and regeneration of native plants.
Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus.
Authors: Bashir Muhammad , Zerbini Murilo
Published: April 2021

Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV) is a potyvirus capable of infecting many species in the family Fabaceae, and most strains also infect members of the Amaranthaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Laminaceae, Passifloraceae and Solanaceae. Its main hosts are cowpea and passionfruit, and along with East Asian Passiflora virus and passionfruit woodiness virus it induces passionfruit woodiness in passionfruit. CABMV occurs worldwide but is a particularly major and widespread disease of cowpea in Africa. The nature and severity of the symptoms induced by CABMV are extremely variable, and vary with host cultivars, virus strain and the time of infection. Symptoms can include various mosaics, mottling, interveinal chlorosis and vein-banding. Complete loss of cowpea crops has been reported from Nigeria, and CABMV is one of the main limiting factors to passionfruit yield in South America and Africa.
Dysmicoccus neobrevipes (grey pineapple mealybug).
Authors: Curry Claire
Published: April 2021

Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is a mealybug with a pantropical distribution. It is an economically important pest that can feed on and damage dozens of hosts, principally pineapple and the banana Musa × paradisiaca. The main damage caused by D. neobrevipes is due to its role as a vector of mealybug wilt (Plant Health Australia, 2013). Qin et al. (2010) considered it a dangerous alien species with a high risk of invasion in China. Although D. neobrevipes can colonize without the help of associated caretaker ants, most commonly Pheidole and Solenopsis, the ants' presence can help them to invade new areas by providing shelter and protecting them from natural enemies and adverse weather conditions.
Sugarcane white leaf phytoplasma (white leaf of sugarcane).
Authors: Marcone Carmine
Published: April 2021

Losses due to sugarcane white leaf (SCWL) phytoplasma vary greatly depending on the susceptibility of the clones, the weather and other environmental conditions influencing sugarcane growth. In Taiwan, over 60 hectares of sugarcane were abandoned due to both high incidence and severity of SCWL disease whereas incidence of more than 10% occurred in 700 hectares. Also, crop losses of 33 and 74%, as well as a decrease of 30% in the sugar content in infected sugarcane plants compared to healthy ones, were recorded (Rishi and Chen, 1989). In Sri Lanka, the incidence of SCWL disease in some sugarcane-growing areas has reached 50-84%, where the yield and quality of infected plants were greatly affected (Chandrasene et al., 2003). In SCWL-affected sugarcane plants, the total chlorophyll content was reduced by 90% while the respiratory rate increased significantly (Chen and Chen, 1974). Affected plants usually die soon after the appearance of the first symptoms. SCWL is one of the most destructive diseases of sugarcane in Thailand (Wongkaew and Fletcher, 2004; Hanboonsong et al., 2006).
Solidago gigantea (giant goldenrod).
Authors: Meyer Gretchen
Published: April 2021

S. gigantea has spread in a number of European countries after introduction as an ornamental plant from its native North America. It continues to be available as an ornamental from mail-order catalogues and web-sites of commercial nurseries and botanical gardens. Morita (2002) indicates that S. gigantea is less noxious than S. altissima, but it is an undesirable invader on account of its large rhizomes and vigorous growth leading to gross changes in the native vegetation and fauna. S. gigantea is not a serious weed in annual crops since it can be controlled by tilling. However, it invades poorly managed pasture and can be a considerable weed in forest nurseries and in perennial gardens and crops.
Sorghum halepense (Johnson grass).
Authors: Parker Chris
Published: April 2021

S. halepense is a perennial grass which can be cultivated for fodder, but is also an extremely invasive weed with a worldwide distribution. Its extensive spreading rhizome and shoot system and high rate of seed production make it extremely invasive and difficult to eradicate. The species has a number of detrimental effects including: toxicity to grazing stock, fire risk during summer and competitive exclusion of other plants. It reduces soil fertility, acts as a host for crop pathogens and is a known allergen. It is regarded as a serious weed in 53 countries and in a wide range of field crops.
Zophopetes dysmephila (palm tree nightfighter).
Authors: Cock M. J. W.
Published: April 2021

Within Africa, this species has been reported to have spread into Western Cape Province, South Africa, where it feeds on introduced ornamental Phoenix palms. It is also suspected to be alien in Eritrea, where it feeds primarily on ornamental P. canariensis, but also on date palm, P. dactylifera. It has not spread to other parts of the tropics, but if it did, it could be a significant pest of ornamental Phoenix palms, and perhaps also date palms.
Aulacorthum solani (foxglove aphid).
Authors: Whittaker Angela
Published: April 2021

A. solani is becoming an increasingly economic important pest of several agricultural crops worldwide and has recently undergone a status change from an occasional pest to a serious pest of vegetables and ornamental plants in greenhouses of North America and the UK (Jandricic et al., 2010, 2014a). A. solani was first recorded on citrus in the north of Iran in 2003-2004 (Alavi and Rezvani, 2007).
Elaeagnus umbellata (autumn olive).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa , Pasiecznik Nick
Published: April 2021

E. umbellata is an important deciduous shrub which reaches up to 5 m high and 10 cm in d.b.h. It is found in thickets and sparse woods of Japan, Korea and China. E. umbellata is a shade intolerant pioneer tree and is also commonly found along riversides and seashores in Japan. This species is growing in humid areas with 1000-4000 mm of annual rainfall in Japan. In China it is reported to grow even in semi-arid areas of Nei Menggu, Gansu and Shaanxi province, where annual rainfall is around 400 mm (Niu, 1990). E. umbellata can fix nitrogen and it is tolerant to salt winds, this species is therefore used for fixation of coastal sand dunes in Japan, and is frequently planted mixed with Pinus thunbergii as a soil improving tree. E. umbellata is also planted in eroded areas of mountainous zones to re-establish and develop vegetation. In China, E. umbellata is occasionally cultivated in gardens (Zhang, 1997).
Ziziphus mauritiana (jujube).
Authors: Pasiecznik Nick
Published: April 2021

Z. mauritiana is a hardy multipurpose tree valued for its leaf fodder, fuelwood, fruit, lac and its thorny twigs for fencing. It can be grown on a wide range of soil types. It tolerates temperature extremes and survives serious drought (Gupta, 1993).
Annona muricata (soursop).
Authors: Datiles Marianne Jennifer , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro
Published: April 2021

A. muricata is a small evergreen tree up to 9 m tall. It is native to tropical America but is widely planted in home gardens in South-East Asia. In Brazil, several small commercial plantations are in operation (about 2000 hectares are planted) with more planned. It was one of the earliest fruit trees introduced to the old world, brought to the Philippines by the Spanish. It is valued chiefly for its edible fruits, which are large (> 1 kg), heart-shaped and dark green in colour. The flesh is tart, desirable for ice creams and drinks, fruit jellies and sweetcakes. In the Philippines, young fruits with seeds still soft are used as a vegetable.
Symmetry-Protected Scattering in Non-Hermitian Linear Systems
Authors: Jin L. , Song Z.
Published: April 2021

Symmetry plays fundamental role in physics and the nature of symmetry changes in non-Hermitian physics. Here the symmetry-protected scattering in non-Hermitian linear systems is investigated by employing the discrete symmetries that classify the random matrices. The even-parity symmetries impose strict constraints on the scattering coefficients: the time-reversal (C and K) symmetries protect the symmetric transmission or reflection; the pseudo-Hermiticity (Q symmetry) or the inversion (P) symmetry protects the symmetric transmission and reflection. For the inversion-combined time-reversal symmetries, the symmetric features on the transmission and reflection interchange. The odd-parity symmetries including the particle-hole symmetry, chiral symmetry, and sublattice symmetry cannot ensure the scattering to be symmetric. These guiding principles are valid for both Hermitian and non-Hermitian linear systems. Our findings provide fundamental insights into symmetry and scattering ranging from condensed matter physics to quantum physics and optics.
Flexible fabric gas sensors based on reduced graphene-polyaniline nanocomposite for highly sensitive NH
3
detection at room temperature
Authors: Luo Guifang , Xie Lili , He Meng , Jaisutti Rawat , Zhu Zhigang
Published: April 2021

A flexible fabric gas sensor for the detection of sub-ppm-level NH3 is reported in this paper. The reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-polyaniline (PANI) nanocomposite was successfully coated on cotton thread via an in situ polymerization technique. The morphology, microstructure and composition were analyzed by field-emission scanning electron microscope, x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, we have studied the responses of the rGO-PANI nanocomposite-based flexible sensors for the detection of NH3 varying from 1–100 ppm, operated at 22 °C. At the optimized concentration of rGO, the response of these sensors increased by 4–5 times in comparison with the pristine rGO and PANI. These flexible sensors exhibited fast response, remarkable long-term stability, good selectivity and a low detection limit. The sensing mechanism for the high sensing performance has been thoroughly discussed and it is mainly due to the distinctive 1D fiber structure, the formation of a p-p heterojunction between the rGO nanosheets and PANI. The rGO-PANI composite-based fabric sensor with low power consumption is a potential flexible electronic device for the detection of NH3.
Clarifying misconceptions about Ohm’s law and power dissipation in grid electricity transmission
Authors: Bissell J J
Published: April 2021

The two main expressions for power dissipation P in Ohmic conductors, namely

P
∝

V

2

and

P
∝

I

2

, typically confuse students about why high voltage V should be preferred to high current I when transmitting electrical power through the National Grid. Here we suggest that such misconceptions can be avoided if students are encouraged to focus on the delivery of useful power (transmission efficiency), rather than energy losses.
Comparative performance analysis of mixed halide perovskite solar cells with different transport layers and back metal contacts
Authors: Jayan K Deepthi , Sebastian Varkey
Published: April 2021

In this study, SCAPS-1D software is used to model and analyze the performance of various perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with diverse back contact metals, electron transport layers and hole transport layers combined with different mixed halide perovskite absorber materials CH3NH3PbI3−X
Cl
X
and CH3NH3PbI3−X
Br
X
for X = 1, 2. With CH3NH3PbI3−X
Cl
X
as the absorber layer, the best performance is obtained for the configuration glass/fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)/indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO)/CH3NH3PbI3−X
Cl
X
/CuSbS2/Au for X = 1 with a fill factor (FF) of 61.83% and a power conversion efficiency of 13.31%. The device configuration glass/FTO/IGZO/CH3NH3PbI3−X
Br
X
/CuO/Pd for X = 1 shows the best performance with a power conversion efficiency of 15.55% and FF of 71.19% for CH3NH3PbI3−X
Cl
X
as the absorber layer. The study shows that the optimum total defect density values of the absorber layer, MAPbI3−X
Cl
X
with X = 1 and X = 2 are 2.5 × 1013 cm−3 and 2.5 × 1014 cm−3, respectively. For the MAPbI3−X
Br
X
absorber layer, with X = 1 and 2, the optimum defect density is found to be 1 × 1015 cm−3. The optimum dopant concentration is found to be 1.0 × 1018 cm−3and 1.0 × 1016 cm−3, respectively, for PSCs with MAPbI3−X
ClX as the absorber layer, for X = 1 and 2. For PSCs with MAPbI3–X
Br
X
as an absorber layer with X = 1 and 2, the optimum dopant density is found to be 1.0 × 1016 cm−3 each. The device is found to be stable at an operating temperature of 300 K.
Unidirectional reflectionless propagation of near-infrared light in resonator-assisted non-parity-time symmetric waveguides
Authors: He Zhihui , Li Lingqiao , Cui Wei , Wang Yixuan , Xue Weiwei , Xu Hui , Yi Zao , Li Chunjiang , Li Zhenxiong
Published: April 2021

The unidirectional reflectionless (UR) light propagation is investigated in the waveguide coupled to gain and loss resonators by using a developed coupled mode-scattering matrix theory. The results show that there is almost no reflection in the case of the backward incidence, but total reflection in the case of the forward incidence under the condition of balancing gain and loss in the gain resonator for the proposed waveguide when the indirect coupling phase θ ranges from 0.8 rad to 2.3 rad and from 4 rad to 5.5 rad. Moreover, the coherent perfect absorption (CPA) can be observed at the same time. Especially, the UR light propagation appears when the absolute value of detuning δ is smaller than 1 × 1013 rad s−1. Based on the findings above, we propose a metal–insulator–metal non-parity-time symmetric plasmonic waveguide and obtain the UR plasmonic propagation and CPA. The theoretical results are in excellent agreement with the finite-difference time-domain simulations. These results will provide a new pathway for the realization of unidirectional propagation and absorption of light at the nanoscale.