bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wound Healing: From Passive to Smart Dressings
Authors: Farahani Mojtaba , Shafiee Abbas
Published: June 2021

The universal increase in the number of patients with nonhealing skin wounds imposes a huge social and economic burden on the patients and healthcare systems. Although, the application of traditional wound dressings contributes to an effective wound healing outcome, yet, the complexity of the healing process remains a major health challenge. Recent advances in materials and fabrication technologies have led to the fabrication of dressings that provide proper conditions for effective wound healing. The 3D‐printed wound dressings, biomolecule‐loaded dressings, as well as smart and flexible bandages are among the recent alternatives that have been developed to accelerate wound healing. Additionally, the new generation of wound dressings contains a variety of microelectronic sensors for real‐time monitoring of the wound environment and is able to apply required actions to support the healing progress. Moreover, advances in manufacturing flexible microelectronic sensors enable the development of the next generation of wound dressing substrates, known as electronic skin, for real‐time monitoring of the whole physiochemical markers in the wound environment in a single platform. The current study reviews the importance of smart wound dressings as an emerging strategy for wound care management and highlights different types of smart dressings for promoting the wound healing process.
A High‐Throughput Distal Lung Air–Blood Barrier Model Enabled By Density‐Driven Underside Epithelium Seeding
Authors: Viola Hannah , Washington Kendra , Selva Cauviya , Grunwell Jocelyn , Tirouvanziam Rabindra , Takayama Shuichi
Published: June 2021

High‐throughput tissue barrier models can yield critical insights on how barrier function responds to therapeutics, pathogens, and toxins. However, such models often emphasize multiplexing capability at the expense of physiologic relevance. Particularly, the distal lung's air–blood barrier is typically modeled with epithelial cell monoculture, neglecting the substantial contribution of endothelial cell feedback in the coordination of barrier function. An obstacle to establishing high‐throughput coculture models relevant to the epithelium/endothelium interface is the requirement for underside cell seeding, which is difficult to miniaturize and automate. Therefore, this paper describes a scalable, low‐cost seeding method that eliminates inversion by optimizing medium density to float cells so they attach under the membrane. This method generates a 96‐well model of the distal lung epithelium–endothelium barrier with serum‐free, glucocorticoid‐free air–liquid differentiation. The polarized epithelial–endothelial coculture exhibits mature barrier function, appropriate intercellular junction staining, and epithelial‐to‐endothelial transmission of inflammatory stimuli such as polyinosine:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)). Further, exposure to influenza A virus PR8 and human beta‐coronavirus OC43 initiates a dose‐dependent inflammatory response that propagates from the epithelium to endothelium. While this model focuses on the air–blood barrier, the underside seeding method is generalizable to various coculture tissue models for scalable, physiologic screening.
Manipulating Ferromagnetism in Few‐Layered Cr2Ge2Te6
Authors: Zhuo Weizhuang , Lei Bin , Wu Shuang , Yu Fanghang , Zhu Changsheng , Cui Jianhua , Sun Zeliang , Ma Donghui , Shi Mengzhu , Wang Honghui , Wang Wenxiang , Wu Tao , Ying Jianjun , Wu Shiwei , Wang Zhenyu , Chen Xianhui
Published: June 2021

The discovery of magnetism in 2D materials offers new opportunities for exploring novel quantum states and developing spintronic devices. In this work, using field‐effect transistors with solid ion conductors as the gate dielectric (SIC‐FETs), we have observed a significant enhancement of ferromagnetism associated with magnetic easy‐axis switching in few‐layered Cr2Ge2Te6. The easy axis of the magnetization, inferred from the anisotropic magnetoresistance, can be uniformly tuned from the out‐of‐plane direction to an in‐plane direction by electric field in the few‐layered Cr2Ge2Te6. Additionally, the Curie temperature, obtained from both the Hall resistance and magnetoresistance measurements, increases from 65 to 180 K in the few‐layered sample by electric gating. Moreover, the surface of the sample is fully exposed in the SIC‐FET device configuration, making further heterostructure‐engineering possible. This work offers an excellent platform for realizing electrically controlled quantum phenomena in a single device.
2D High‐Entropy Transition Metal Dichalcogenides for Carbon Dioxide Electrocatalysis
Authors: Cavin John , Ahmadiparidari Alireza , Majidi Leily , Thind Arashdeep Singh , Misal Saurabh N. , Prajapati Aditya , Hemmat Zahra , Rastegar Sina , Beukelman Andrew , Singh Meenesh R. , Unocic Kinga A. , Salehi‐Khojin Amin , Mishra Rohan
Published: June 2021

High‐entropy alloys combine multiple principal elements at a near equal fraction to form vast compositional spaces to achieve outstanding functionalities that are absent in alloys with one or two principal elements. Here, the prediction, synthesis, and multiscale characterization of 2D high‐entropy transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) alloys with four/five transition metals is reported. Of these, the electrochemical performance of a five‐component alloy with the highest configurational entropy, (MoWVNbTa)S2, is investigated for CO2 conversion to CO, revealing an excellent current density of 0.51 A cm−2 and a turnover frequency of 58.3 s−1 at ≈ −0.8 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. First‐principles calculations show that the superior CO2 electroreduction is due to a multi‐site catalysis wherein the atomic‐scale disorder optimizes the rate‐limiting step of CO desorption by facilitating isolated transition metal edge sites with weak CO binding. 2D high‐entropy TMDC alloys provide a materials platform to design superior catalysts for many electrochemical systems.
Swelling Pressures of Graphite Oxide and Graphene Oxide Membranes in Water and Ethanol
Authors: Iakunkov Artem , Boulanger Nicolas , Nordenström Andreas , Talyzin Alexandr V.
Published: June 2021

Swelling of graphene oxide (GO) membranes and bulk graphite oxide under confinement conditions is found to produce pressures up to ≈220 bar. Swelling pressure is important to take into account in many applications of GO membranes, but it has not been previously reported. Swelling pressures are typically measured only for bulk materials. However, it is demonstrated that even µm thick GO membranes develop pressures 3–25 bar due to the volume expansion caused by swelling in water. A rather strong difference in kinetics of pressure increase is found for both graphite oxide and GO membranes in water and ethanol despite similar lattice expansion due to swelling. This effect is attributed to slower penetration of ethanol into GO interlayers. Significantly faster saturation of swelling pressure is found for GO membranes (few hours) as compared to bulk graphite oxides (weeks) due to a higher degree of compaction. Swelling pressure is an important factor in applications, which require confinement, encapsulation of GO membranes or using external pressure to limit the lattice expansion. Finally, the swelling pressure can be used as an estimation for the suction pressure developed in pervaporation or vapor permeation applications, which is suggested as a driving force in rapid water permeation across GO membranes.
Unlocking Entropic Elasticity of Nematic Elastomers Through Light and Dynamic Adhesion
Authors: Ohzono Takuya , Minamikawa Hiroyuki , Koyama Emiko , Norikane Yasuo
Published: June 2021

Nematic liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) generally show soft elasticity, masking entropic elasticity inherent in crosslinked networks. They macroscopically deform with little stress increase under straining because of the soft shear mode attained by nematic director rotations. Moreover, the nematic interaction in main‐chain LCEs can arrest the ergodic response to cycling strain. It manifests hysteresis, slow relaxation, and increased viscosity, which critically affect their mechanical applications such as actuation and adhesion. Here, it is shown that entropic elasticity fully recovers after photo‐isomerization of azobenzene units incorporated in a nematic LCE. With the light‐induced bentcis‐isomers at room temperature, the degree of soft elasticity, viscosity, and adhesion are tangibly lowered. Mechanical responses rationalize thatcisisomers unlock the frozen configurational degree of freedom by reducing nematic order in the same manner observed upon temperature increase. The present results not only unveil how the nematic interaction suppresses entropic elasticity leading to the soft state, but also offer a guide to tuning viscoelasticity toward dynamic mechanical applications.
Cs2Zr1−xTexCl6 Perovskite Microcrystals with Ultrahigh Photoluminescence Quantum Efficiency of 79.46% for High Light Efficiency White Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Zhilin , Rao Zhihui , Li Qiaoqiao , Zhou Liujiang , Zhao Xiujian , Gong Xiao
Published: June 2021

Recently, lead‐free materials with stable photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature, such as vacancy‐ordered double perovskites have drawn wide attention. Herein, Te4+‐doped all‐inorganic lead‐free Cs2Zr1−xTexCl6 perovskite microcrystals (MCs) are reported. The obtained pure Cs2ZrCl6 perovskite MCs exhibit a blue emission, while Cs2Zr1−xTexCl6 perovskite MCs show a broad and strong yellow emission with ultrahigh photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) up to 79.46% at room temperature. The structure and optical properties of perovskite MCs are investigated in detail by experiments and theoretical calculations. The mechanism that 3P1 of Te can be partially frozen at the low temperature regarding Cs2Zr1−xTexCl6 perovskite MCs is proposed. White light emitting diodes (WLEDs) with a color coordinate of (0.344, 0.333), a correlated color temperature of 4959 K, a color rendering index (Ra) of 74.8, and a high light efficiency of 91.16 lm W−1, are fabricated by the prepared Cs2Zr1−xTexCl6 perovskite MCs powder with a commercial near‐UV LED (NUV‐LED) chip (450 nm). The results suggest that Te4+‐doped all‐inorganic lead‐free perovskite MCs show great potential in the next‐generation solid‐state lightings.
Versatile Mitogenic and Differentiation‐Inducible Layer Formation by Underwater Adhesive Polypeptides
Authors: Tada Seiichi , Ren Xueli , Mao Hongli , Heo Yun , Park Shin‐Hye , Isoshima Takashi , Zhu Liping , Zhou Xiaoyue , Ito Reiko , Kurata Shino , Osaki Megumi , Kobatake Eiry , Ito Yoshihiro
Published: June 2021

Artificial materials have no biological functions, but they are important for medical devices such as artificial organs and matrices for regenerative medicine. In this study, mitogenic and differentiation‐inducible materials are devised via the simple coating of polypeptides, which contain the sequence of epidermal growth factor or insulin‐like growth factor with a key amino acid (3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine) of underwater adhesive proteins. The adhesive polypeptides prepared via solid‐phase synthesis form layers on various substrates involving organic and inorganic materials to provide biological surfaces. Through the direct activation of cognate receptors on interactive surfaces, the materials enable increased cell growth and differentiation compared to that achieved by soluble growth factors. This superior growth and differentiation are attributed to the long‐lasting signal transduction (triggered by the bound growth factors), which do not cause receptor internalization and subsequent downregulation.
Novel Quasi‐Liquid K‐Na Alloy as a Promising Dendrite‐Free Anode for Rechargeable Potassium Metal Batteries
Authors: Tai Zhixin , Li Yi , Liu Yajie , Zhao Lanling , Ding Yu , Lu Ziyu , Peng Zhijian , Meng Lijian , Yu Guihua , Liu Lifeng
Published: June 2021

Rechargeable potassium metal batteries are promising energy storage devices with potentially high energy density and markedly low cost. However, eliminating dendrite growth and achieving a stable electrode/electrolyte interface are the key challenges to tackle. Herein, a novel “quasi‐liquid” potassium‐sodium alloy (KNA) anode comprising only 3.5 wt% sodium (KNA‐3.5) is reported, which exhibits outstanding electrochemical performance able to be reversibly cycled at 4 mA cm–2 for 2000 h. Moreover, it is demonstrated that adding a small amount of sodium hexafluorophosphate (NaPF6) into the potassium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide electrolyte allows for the formation of the “quasi‐liquid” KNA on electrode surface. Comprehensive experimental studies reveal the formation of an unusual metastable KNa2 phase during plating, which is believed to facilitate simultaneous nucleation and suppress the growth of dendrites, thereby improving the electrode's cycle lifetime. The “quasi‐liquid” KNA‐3.5 anode demonstrates markedly enhanced electrochemical performance in a full cell when pairing with Prussian blue analogs or sodium rhodizonate dibasic as the cathode material, compared to the pristine potassium anode. Importantly, unlike the liquid KNA reported before, the “quasi‐liquid” KNA‐3.5 exhibits good processability and can be readily shaped into sheet electrodes, showing substantial promise as a dendrite‐free anode in rechargeable potassium metal batteries.
Role of Copper Doping in Heavy Metal‐Free InP/ZnSe Core/Shell Quantum Dots for Highly Efficient and Stable Photoelectrochemical Cell
Authors: Zhao Hongyang , Li Xin , Cai Mengke , Liu Cheng , You Yimin , Wang Rui , Channa Ali Imran , Lin Feng , Huo Da , Xu Guofeng , Tong Xin , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: June 2021

As emerging eco‐friendly alternatives to traditional Cd/Pb‐based quantum dots (QDs), InP/ZnSe(S) core/shell QDs have demonstrated huge potential in light‐emitting technologies. So far, these QDs have been rarely employed in solar energy conversion applications due to their type‐I band structure offering limited photo‐induced charge carrier separation and transfer. Here, a controllable Cu shell doping approach is reported to engineer the optoelectronic properties of InP/ZnSe core/shell QDs and realize high performance and stable solar‐driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen evolution. As compared to the pristine InP/ZnSe QDs, the Cu‐doped core/shell QDs exhibit enhances the photo‐induced electron transfer rate due to the capture of photo‐generated holes via Cu impurity states in the shell, leading to improved photocurrent density and long‐term durability in as‐fabricated InP/ZnSe:Cu QDs‐PEC devices under standard one sun illumination. The results indicate that the doping of Cu in the shell has a preeminent effect on the optoelectronic properties of the core/shell QDs and may open up new avenues to tailor eco‐friendly core/shell QDs for high performance and stable solar energy conversion.
Alkali Ions Pre‐Intercalated Layered MnO2 Nanosheet for Zinc‐Ions Storage
Authors: Liu Liyuan , Wu Yih‐Chyng , Huang Liang , Liu Kaisi , Duployer Benjamin , Rozier Patrick , Taberna Pierre‐Louis , Simon Patrice
Published: June 2021

Recently, rechargeable zinc‐ion batteries in mild acidic electrolytes have attracted considerable research interest as a result of their high sustainability, safety, and low cost. However, the use of conventional Zn‐ion storage materials is hindered by insufficient specific capacity, sluggish reaction kinetics, or poor cycle life. Here, these limitations are addressed by pre‐intercalating alkali ions and water crystals into layered δ‐MnO2 (birnessite) to prepare K0.27MnO2·0.54H2O (KMO) and Na0.55Mn2O4·1.5H2O with ultrathin nanosheet morphology via a rapid molten salt method. In these materials, alkali ions and water crystals act as pillars to stabilize the layered structures, which can enable rapid diffusion of cations in the KMO structure, resulting in high power capability (90 mAh g−1 at 10 C) and good cycling stability. Furthermore, electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance measurements shed light on the charge storage mechanism of KMO in an aqueous Zn‐ion battery which, combined together with in‐operando X‐ray diffraction techniques, suggests that the charge storage process is dominated by the (de)intercalation of H3O+ with further dissolution–precipitation of Zn4(OH)6(SO4)·5H2O solid product on the KMO surface during cycling.
Enhancing Output Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerator via Charge Clamping
Authors: Wang Jianlong , Yu Xin , Zhao Da , Yu Yang , Gao Qi , Cheng Tinghai , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: June 2021

As a microenergy harvesting device, the output performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has long been limited by their surface charges. In this work, an enhancement of the output performance of TENGs via charge clamping (CC‐TENG) is proposed. The device is comprised of a mechanical‐switch direct‐current TENG (MDC‐TENG), charge clamping module (CCM), and main‐TENG. During operation, the CCM is employed to accumulate and clamp the unidirectional charge generated by the MDC‐TENG. And then, the accumulated charges flow between CCM and main‐TENG. With the increase of transferred charges, the output performance can be effectively improved. In addition, the MDC‐TENG is employed to reduce both power dissipation and circuit complexity. Furthermore, an integrated device based on the CC‐TENG is demonstrated which harvests wind energy and attains a charge output of 1.01 µC. Moreover, a multimode coupling is adopted, that is, an alternating‐current TENG operating in contact‐separation mode and a direct‐current TENG operating in a lateral‐sliding mode that can be employed in environments for which multiple motions coexist. The device provides a reference to improve output performance in the context of wind energy capture.
Single‐Crystalline Structure Assisted Revealing the Critical Factors for the Properties of All‐Small‐Molecule Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Chen , Lv Min , Zhou Ruimin , Wu Qiong , Abdullah Adil Muhammad , Zhang Lili , Shi Yanan , Zhang Jianqi , Lu Kun , Wei Zhixiang
Published: June 2021

All‐small‐molecule organic solar cells have attracted great interests due to their well‐defined molecular structures and suitability for investigating the relationship between the structure and properties. Herein, two small‐molecule donors (SMDs) based on DTBDT core with chlorine atoms and alkylsilyl side chains, namely, ZR‐Si3 and ZR‐Si4, are synthesized and their respective photovoltaic properties by blending them with IDIC‐4Cl and Y6 are studied. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) based on IDIC‐4Cl is higher than that of Y6 systems due to low driving force between the donors and Y6. Although the two IDIC‐4Cl systems have similar morphology, the PCE of 10.10% is attained based on ZR‐Si4, which is higher than that of ZR‐Si3‐based devices (8.12%). To obtain an in‐depth insight into the structure and performance relationship, single crystals of two SMDs and acceptors are obtained successfully. The shortest π−π stacking distance of 3.43 Å and a transport channel between the layers are observed for ZR‐Si4, which is beneficial for getting better performance.
The Emergency Medicine Milestones 2.0: Setting the stage for 2025 and beyond
Authors: Cooney Robert R. , Murano Tiffany , Ring Hope , Starr Ryan , Beeson Michael S. , Edgar Laura
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Beginning in 1999, residents in emergency medicine have been expected to demonstrate competence in the six Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Core Competencies. Expectations were further refined and clarified through the introduction of the Milestones in 2013. Emerging research and data from milestone reporting has illustrated the need for modification of the original milestones. Against this backdrop, the ACGME convened a committee to review and revise the original milestones.

Methods

The working group was convened in December 2018 and consisted of representatives from the American Board of Emergency Medicine, American Osteopathic Association, Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine, Association of American Medical Colleges, ACGME‐Emergency Medicine Review Committee, three community members, a resident member, and a public member. This group also included members from both academic and community emergency medicine programs. The group was overseen by the ACGME vice president for milestones development and met in person one time followed by four virtual sessions to revise and draft the Emergency Medicine Milestones and Supplemental Guide as part of the ACGME Milestones 2.0 Project.

Results

Using data from milestones reporting, needs assessment data, stakeholder interviews, and community commentary, the working group engaged in revisions and updates for the Emergency Medicine Milestones and created a supplemental guide to aid programs in the design of programmatic assessment for the milestones.

Conclusion

The Emergency Medicine Milestones 2.0 provide updated specialty‐specific, competency‐based behavioral anchors to guide the assessment of residents, the design of curricula, and the advancement of emergency medicine training programs.
Investigation of cool‐season species, seeding rate, and nitrogen fertilization in sod production: II. Management and shelf‐life
Authors: Braun Ross C. , Watkins Eric , Hollman Andrew B. , Mihelich Nicole T. , Patton Aaron J.
Published: June 2021

Research is required on sod to explore the differences in management and postharvest practices to help inform sod producers and reduce information inefficiencies that affect the supply and demand of cool‐season turfgrass sod. Replicated field experiments were conducted in Indiana and Minnesota to quantify the effect of turfgrass species (strong creeping red fescue [Festuca rubra L. ssp. rubra Gaudin], Chewings fescue [F. rubra ssp. commutata Gaudin], tall fescue [F. arundinacea Schreb.], and Kentucky bluegrass [Poa pratensis L.]), seeding rate (1, 2, and 3 pure live seed (PLS) cm−2), and N fertilization (98, 196, and 294 kg N ha−1 yr−1) on growth rate and shelf‐life storage. Turf height measurements occurred at multiple timings to calculate growth rates of treatments. Sod was harvested in the spring and autumn and stored on pallets for either 24 or 72 h and then reinstalled in its previous location and treatment effects were assessed. Seeding rate had no effect on growth rate or transplant success of sod. Differences in growth rates demonstrate potential savings for sod growers through less mowing requirement when producing fine fescue sod. Treatments did not influence internal heating of sod rolls, which were higher than, but similar to, diurnal fluctuations of air temperatures. There were minimal differences among turfgrass species and N rates, which indicates strong creeping red fescue, Chewings fescue, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass sod stored for 24–72 h after a spring or autumn harvest in Indiana or Minnesota will not hinder transplant success.
Using target sequence capture to improve the phylogenetic resolution of a rapid radiation in New Zealand Veronica
Authors: Thomas Anne E. , Igea Javier , Meudt Heidi M. , Albach Dirk C. , Lee William G. , Tanentzap Andrew J.
Published: June 2021

PREMISE

Recent, rapid radiations present a challenge for phylogenetic reconstruction. Fast successive speciation events typically lead to low sequence divergence and poorly resolved relationships with standard phylogenetic markers. Target sequence capture of many independent nuclear loci has the potential to improve phylogenetic resolution for rapid radiations.

METHODS

Here we applied target sequence capture with 353 protein‐coding genes (Angiosperms353 bait kit) to Veronica sect. Hebe (common name hebe) to determine its utility for improving the phylogenetic resolution of rapid radiations. Veronica section Hebe originated 5–10 million years ago in New Zealand, forming a monophyletic radiation of ca 130 extant species.

RESULTS

We obtained approximately 150 kbp of 353 protein‐coding exons and an additional 200 kbp of flanking noncoding sequences for each of 77 hebe and two outgroup species. When comparing coding, noncoding, and combined data sets, we found that the latter provided the best overall phylogenetic resolution. While some deep nodes in the radiation remained unresolved, our phylogeny provided broad and often improved support for subclades identified by both morphology and standard markers in previous studies. Gene‐tree discordance was nonetheless widespread, indicating that additional methods are needed to disentangle fully the history of the radiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Phylogenomic target capture data sets both increase phylogenetic signal and deliver new insights into the complex evolutionary history of rapid radiations as compared with traditional markers. Improving methods to resolve remaining discordance among loci from target sequence capture is now important to facilitate the further study of rapid radiations.
No impact of developmental conditions on serum estradiol levels among Bangladeshi women in the UK and Bangladesh
Authors: Chaney Carlye , Begum Khurshida , Núñez‐de la Mora Alejandra , Sievert Lynnette L. , Muttukrishna Shanthi , Harries Victoria , Sharmeen Taniya , Murphy Lorna , Gunu Richard , Chowdhury Osul , Bentley Gillian R.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

While many aspects of female ovarian function respond to environmental stressors, estradiol (E2) appears less sensitive to stressors than progesterone, except under extreme ecological conditions. However, earlier studies relied on saliva samples, considered less sensitive than blood. Here, we investigated E2 variation among 177 Bangladeshi and UK white women, aged 35–59, using single serum samples. Bangladeshi women either grew up in Sylhet, Bangladesh (exposed to poor sanitation, limited health care, and higher pathogen loads but not poor energy availability), or in the UK.

Methods

We collected samples on days 4–6 of the menstrual cycle in menstruating women and on any day for post‐menopausal women. Participants included: (i) Bangladeshi sedentees (n = 36), (ii) Bangladeshis who migrated to the UK as adults (n = 52), (iii) Bangladeshis who migrated as children (n = 40), and (iv) UK white women matched for neighborhood residence to the migrants (n = 49). Serum was obtained by venipuncture and analyzed using electrochemiluminescence. We collected anthropometrics and supplementary sociodemographic and reproductive data through questionnaires. We analyzed the data using multivariate regression.

Results

E2 levels did not differ between migrant groups after controlling for age, BMI, physical activity, psychosocial stress, parity, and time since last birth (parous women). Paralleling results from salivary E2, serum E2 did not differ among women who experienced varying developmental conditions.

Conclusion

Our results reinforce the hypothesis that E2 levels are stable under challenging environmental conditions. Interpopulation variation may only arise under chronic conditions of extreme nutritional scarcity, energy expenditure, and/or high disease burdens.
Suicidal ideation and planning among Mexican adolescents are associated with depression polygenic risk scores
Authors: Martinez‐Levy Gabriela A. , Campos Adrian I. , Rabinowitz Jill A. , García‐Marín Luis M. , Benjet Corina , Méndez Enrique , Rentería Miguel E. , Cruz‐Fuentes Carlos S.
Published: June 2021

Suicide is a major public health problem in Mexico and around the world. Genetic predisposition for major depressive disorder (MDD) has been associated with increased risk for suicidal behaviors (SB) in populations of European ancestry (EA). Here, we examine whether MDD polygenic risk scores (MDD PRS), derived from a genome‐wide association study involving EA individuals, predict SB, including ideation, planning, and attempt, among Mexican youth using a longitudinal design. At baseline, participants (N = 1,128, 12–17 years, 55% women) were interviewed and genotyped as part of a general population survey on adolescent mental health. Eight years later, they were recontacted for a follow up visit (N = 437, 20–25 years, 63% women). At both assessments, individuals reported on their engagement in SB within the past year. MDD PRS were significantly positively associated with SB, particularly suicide ideation and planning during adolescence, accounting for ~4–5% of the variance in these outcomes. In contrast, associations between MDD PRS and SB during young adulthood did not reach statistical significance. Our results suggest that increased genetic liability for depression increased risk for SB, particularly during adolescence, expanding our knowledge of the genetic underpinnings of SB.
The herpetological contributions of Richard Thomas
Authors: Bauer Aaron M. , Daza Juan D. , Herrera‐Martínez Alexandra , Ospina Oscar E.
Published: June 2021

John Paul Richard Thomas is among the living herpetologists to have described the greatest number of new species of amphibians and reptiles, and his contributions to the herpetology of the West Indies, particularly the Greater Antilles, have been exceptional. His academic career followed an unusual path, having established a strong reputation and described 50 new taxa prior to beginning his doctoral studies. His career was strongly influenced by Albert Schwartz and later was characterized by extensive and fruitful collaboration with S. Blair Hedges. Thomas' contributions to the study of blind snakes have been noteworthy. In addition to describing 28 species of scolecophidians he has been a keen observer of blind snake morphology and his 1976 dissertation remains a valuable source of osteological data. We outline some of the highlights of the career of Richard Thomas and provide a bibliography of his scientific works and a listing of the 108 taxa of amphibians and reptiles described by him.
Function of mevalonate pathway genes in the synthesis of frontalin in Chinese white pine beetle,Dendroctonus armandi(curculionidae: Scolytinae)
Authors: Sun Yaya , Fu Danyang , Kang Xiaotong , Liu Bin , Ning Hang , Chen Hui
Published: June 2021

The Chinese white pine beetle (Dendroctonus armandiTsai and Li) is a significant pest of pine forests in the Qinling and Bashan Mountains of China. Adult males commonly produce frontalin using precursors synthesized through the mevalonate pathway, which is regulated by juvenile hormone III (JHIII). In this study, the expression levels of mevalonate pathway genes were quantified after phloem feeding and topical application of the JHIII solution. The frontalin was quantified by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Both the phloem feeding and JHIII treatments produced an evident upregulation in the male gut, mainly in 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA synthase (HMGS) and 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase (HMGR). Moreover,HMGS,HMGR, isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase, and geranyl diphosphate synthase/farnesyl diphosphate synthase were upregulated in fed and JHIII‐stimulated males ofD. armandiunder both conditions (solitary and paired). The expression levels were higher in paired compared to solitary males. Males had higher expression levels compared with females. Correspondingly, the phloem‐feeding males produced more frontalin than JHIII‐treated males, and the production of frontalin was higher in paired males than in solitary males. The knockdown of mevalonate pathway genes using RNAi in vivo effectively reduced the messenger RNA level of these genes and inhibited the production of frontalin. Among them, the silencing ofHMGRorHMGSgenes reduced the synthesis of frontalin most significantly.
Transformation of Wurtzite ZnO to a New Triclinic Nanoporous ZnO Phase via Hydrothermal Treatment with Metformin for Designing Proton Conducting Material
Authors: Chatterjee Sauvik , Palui Arnab , Chongdar Sayantan , Roy Shyamal , Ghosh Aswini , Bhaumik Asim
Published: June 2021

Zinc oxide is one of the most widely studied semiconductor metal oxides, which predominantly crystallizes as hexagonal wurtzite and often cubic zinc‐blende phases. Here we report the transformation of the highly stable wurtzite ZnO to a new triclinic phase NZO‐2 by using metformin as a template during post‐synthesis hydrothermal treatment. This crystalline phase of the material NZO‐2 has been identified through the refinement of the powder XRD data. NZO‐2 possesses porous rod like particle morphology consisting of the self‐assembly of 3–7 nm size spherical nanoparticles and interparticle nanoscopic voids spaces. NZO‐2 has been surface phosphorylated and the resulting material displayed good proton conductivity. Further, NZO‐2 displayed ultra‐low band gap of 1.74 eV, thereby responsible for red emission under high energy laser excitation and this may open new opportunities in optoelectronic application of ZnO.
Communication and social interaction in the cannabinoid‐type 1 receptor null mouse: Implications for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Fyke William , Premoli Marika , Echeverry Alzate Victor , López‐Moreno José A. , Lemaire‐Mayo Valerie , Crusio Wim E. , Marsicano Giovanni , Wöhr Markus , Pietropaolo Susanna
Published: June 2021

Clinical and preclinical findings have suggested a role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the etiopathology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous mouse studies have investigated the role of ECS in several behavioral domains; however, none of them has performed an extensive assessment of social and communication behaviors, that is, the main core features of ASD. This study employed a mouse line lacking the primary endocannabinoid receptor (CB1r) and characterized ultrasonic communication and social interaction in CB1−/−, CB1+/−, and CB1+/+ males and females. Quantitative and qualitative alterations in ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) were observed in CB1 null mice both during early development (i.e., between postnatal days 4 and 10), and at adulthood (i.e., at 3 months of age). Adult mutants also showed marked deficits in social interest in the three‐chamber test and social investigation in the direct social interaction test. These behavioral alterations were mostly observed in both sexes and appeared more marked in CB1−/− than CB1+/− mutant mice. Importantly, the adult USV alterations could not be attributed to differences in anxiety or sensorimotor abilities, as assessed by the elevated plus maze and auditory startle tests. Our findings demonstrate the role of CB1r in social communication and behavior, supporting the use of the CB1 full knockout mouse in preclinical research on these ASD‐relevant core domains.

Lay Summary

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is important for brain development and neural function and is therefore likely to be involved in neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Here we investigated changes in social behavior and communication, which are core features of ASD, in male and female mice lacking the chief receptor of this system. Our results show that loss of this receptor results in several changes in social behavior and communication both during early development and in adulthood, thus supporting the role of the ECS in these ASD‐core behavioral domains.
Integrierte Entwurfs‐ und Betriebsmethodik für Offshore‐Megastrukturen
Authors: Schuster Daniel , Hente Christian , Hübler Clemens , Rolfes Raimund
Published: June 2021

Der Sonderforschungsbereich 1463 „Integrierte Entwurfs‐ und Betriebsmethodik für Offshore‐Megastrukturen“ ist im Januar 2021 von der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft für eine Laufzeit von zunächst vier Jahren eingerichtet worden. In 15 Teilprojekten beschäftigen sich Forscher von fünf Institutionen unter der Leitung der Leibniz Universität Hannover mit der Erforschung und Entwicklung neuer Methoden zur Realisierung zukünftiger Offshore‐Windenergieanlagen mit einer Nennleistung von > 20 MW als wesentlichen Beitrag zu einer regenerativen Energieversorgung.
Note on a stepwise procedure for rejecting at least k out of m hypotheses: A simple Holm‐type formulation and proof
Authors: Guilbaud Olivier J. M.
Published: June 2021

Mielke et al. (2021) proposed a stepwise multiple testing procedure (MTP) based on marginal p‐values for rejecting at least k out of m null hypotheses. Briefly, the MTP cannot reject less than k hypotheses, but this property improves the power to reject k or more hypotheses relative to the stepdown MTP of Holm (1979). Mielke et al. discussed why such an MTP is of interest in the context of biosimilarity developments. This article describes how a slight modification of Holm's simple direct arguments can be used as an alternative to the closed‐testing arguments of Mielke et al. to show the strong control of the family‐wise error rate. This modification is based on a Holm‐type formulation of the rejection algorithm where each step involves a single ordered p‐value. With k equal to one, the stepwise MTP reduces to Holm's stepdown MTP. The MTP is valid quite generally. A version of the MTP with weights for hypotheses is also described and discussed. As in the case without weights: (a) a modification of Holm's arguments can be used; (b) with k equal to one, the MTP reduces to Holm's MTP with weights; and (c) the MTP is valid quite generally.
High throughput chromatography and analytics can inform viral clearance capabilities during downstream process development for biologics
Authors: Gulla Krishana C. , Schneiderman Zachary J. , O'Connell Sarah E. , Arias Gabriel F. , Cibelli Nicole L. , Cetlin David , Gowetski Daniel B.
Published: June 2021

High throughput process development (HTPD) using liquid handling robotics and RoboColumns is an established methodology in downstream process development to screen chromatography resins and optimize process designs to meet target product profiles. However, HTPD is not yet widely available for use in viral clearance capability of the resin due to a variety of constraints. In the present study, a BSL‐1‐compatible, non‐infectious MVM model, MVM‐VLP, was tested for viral clearance assessment with various resin and membrane chromatography operations in a HTPD mode. To detect the MVM‐VLP in the high throughput experiments, an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) assay was developed with up to 5 logs of dynamic range. Storage time suitability of MVM‐VLP solutions in various buffer matrices, in the presence or absence of a glycoprotein vaccine candidate, were assessed. Then, MVM‐VLP and a test article monoclonal antibody (mAb) were used in a HTPD design that included commercially available ion exchange media chemistries, elucidating a wide variety of viral clearance ability at different operating conditions. The methodologies described herein have the potential to be a part of the process design stage in biologics manufacturing process development, which in turn can reduce risk associated with viral clearance validation studies.
Next‐generation sequencing of tissue and circulating tumor DNA: Resistance mechanisms to EGFR targeted therapy in a cohort of patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Yujun , Xiong Liwen , Xie Fangfang , Zheng Xiaoxuan , Li Ying , Zhu Lei , Sun Jiayuan
Published: June 2021

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI) has been considered as an effective treatment in epidermal growth factor receptor‐mutant (EGFR‐mutant) advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, most patients develop acquired resistance eventually. Here, we compared and analyzed the genetic alterations between tissue assay and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and further explored the resistance mechanisms after EGFR‐TKI treatment.

Methods and Materials

Amplification refractory mutation system‐polymerase chain reaction (ARMS‐PCR), Cobas® ARMS‐PCR and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) were performed on tissue samples after pathological diagnosis. Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) and NGS were performed on plasma samples. The association between genetic alterations and clinical outcomes was analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients were included. The success rate of re‐biopsy was 91.89% (34/37). The total detection rate of EGFR T790M was 62.16% (23/37) and the consistency between tissue and ctDNA was 78.26% (18/23). Thirty‐four patients were analyzed retrospectively. For tissue re‐biopsy, 24 patients harbored concomitant mutations. Moreover, tissue re‐biopsy at resistance showed 21 patients (21/34, 61.76%) had the concomitant somatic mutation. The three most frequent concomitant mutations were TP53 (18/34, 52.94%), MET (4/34, 11.76%), and PIK3CA (4/34, 11.76%). Meanwhile, 21 patients (21/34, 61.76%) with EGFR T790M mutation. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were better in patients with T790M mutation (p = 0.010 and p = 0.017) or third‐generation EGFR‐TKI treatment (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.073). Interestingly, concomitant genetic alterations were significantly associated with a worse prognosis for patients with EGFR T790M mutation receiving third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs (p = 0.037).

Conclusions

Multi‐platforms are feasible and highly consistent for re‐biopsy after EGFR‐TKI resistance. Concomitant genetic alterations may be associated with a poor prognosis for patients with EGFR T790M mutation after third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs.
Impact of bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) and intestine‐specific homeobox (ISX) expression on the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma' for better clarity
Authors: Chuang Kai‐Ting , Wang Shen‐Nien , Hsu Shih‐Hsien , Wang Li‐Ting
Published: June 2021

Epigenetic regulation is important for cancer tumor metastasis and progression, including lung and liver cancer. However, the mechanism of epigenetic regulation in liver cancer leaves much to be discussed. According to a previous study, p300/CBP‐associated factor (PCAF) mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and promotes cancer metastasis by recruiting intestine‐specific homeobox (ISX) and bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) in lung cancer. To figure out whether the three genes are also expressed in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or not, and their correlation with patients’ outcome, BRD4, PCAF, and ISX messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels in 377 patients with HCC were investigated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and confocal fluorescence imaging. The correlation of the gene expression (PCAF, ISX, and BRD4) in liver cancer is also being investigated. Here, we show that the mRNA expression of PCAF, BRD4, and ISX in 377 paired specimens from patients with HCC, and the adjacent normal tissues exhibited a tumor‐specific expression pattern, highly correlated with disease pathogenesis, patient survival time, progression stage, and poor prognosis. The results show that ISX and BRD4 can potentially be a target for improving the survival rate.
The origin of the A/G single nucleotide polymorphism of starch synthase IIa in rice and its relation to gelatinization temperature
Authors: Song Jiling , Hu Yaqi , Deng Guofu , Dai Gaoxing , Bao Jinsong
Published: June 2021

Background and objectives

The domestication of cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) has long been studied, and many agronomically relevant genes have undergone artificial selection. Among them, the selection history of the starch synthase IIa (SSIIa) has not been fully discovered. The SSIIa is a genetic factor that controls the gelatinization temperature (GT) of rice starch, an important parameter for rice cooking quality.

Findings

The A/GC haplotype in SSIIa only presented in the japonica subspecies. GT was found to be strongly associated with SNPs in SSIIa, that is, G/GC haplotype rice had high or intermediate GT, while G/TT or A/GC haplotype rice had low GT. The nucleotide diversity (π) in japonica was much lower than that of indica and wild rice, indicating that a population bottleneck was experienced during japonica rice domestication. A possible positive selection on the A SNP of SSIIa in temperate japonica rice favoring low GT starch synthesis was proposed.

Conclusions

The evolution of SSIIa in the japonica rice was possibly under positive selection favoring low GT rice, which requires low energy input for cooking. The A SNP of SSIIa is only present in the japonica rice, which might be derived from a recent mutation. There are two ways, A/GC and G/TT, to make japonica rice with low GT, explaining why all the temperate japonica rice cultivars have low GT.

Significance and novelty

Findings of this study provide an understanding of why all the temperate japonica rice have low GT starch, because there are two ways to make it GT low.
Anal tuberculosis presenting as refractory perianal abscess
Authors: Sasahara Kotaro , Kitahama Keiichiro , Aiko Satoshi , Namkoong Ho
Published: June 2021

Although most cases occur in immunocompromised individuals, anal tuberculosis can occur in the absence of HIV infection. Anal tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic or recurrent anal fistulas.
Pore‐forming process in dehydration of metakaolin‐based geopolymer
Authors: Yang Yaru , Le Thi‐Chau‐Duyen , Kudo Isamu , Do Thi‐Mai‐Dung , Niihara Koichi , Suematsu Hisayuki , Thorogood Gordon
Published: June 2021

The geopolymer catalyst supports utilized in the nuclear waste containers for the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station will be required to have high porosity and durability. This work presents the synthesis of a potassium and metakaolin‐based geopolymer and its performance upon dehydration. During water content measurements of the samples, it was seen that in the demolded samples, the water content quickly decreased to less than 30% within 7 days, while the samples that had the cap removed from the container retained more than 50% of the water after 28 days. The pore size distribution of the samples that were post‐cured at different temperatures up to 28 days did not vary greatly with respect to the average pore size. We can infer that structurally stable pores were formed in the first 4 days and were not affected by the post‐curing rate, which may be related to rheological properties and the drainage path of water or hydrogen gas during post‐curing.
Production of surfactin by Bacillus subtilis LAMI005 and evaluation of its potential as tensoactive and emulsifier
Authors: de França Ítalo Waldimiro Lima , de Oliveira Darlane Wellen Freitas , Giro Maria Estela Aparecida , Melo Vânia Maria Maciel , Gonçalves Luciana Rocha Barros
Published: June 2021

In this study, the kinetic of lipopeptide biosurfactant production by Bacillus subtilis LAMI005 and its tensoactive and emulsifier properties were evaluated. The influence of the concentrations of nitrogen ((NH4)2SO4) and carbon source (glucose and fructose) on biosurfactant production, using a mineral medium, were evaluated. A production of about 930 mg · L−1 of surfactin was observed for mineral medium supplied with total reducing sugars (16.55 g · L−1) and (NH4)2SO4 (1 g · L−1) as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The crude biosurfactant exhibited its potential as tensoactive, presenting the capability to reach surface tension of about 28 mN ⋅ m−1 for water and exhibiting low CMC (~14–20 mg · L−1). The analysis of emulsifying activity showed a greater stability of emulsion formed in motor oil (3.5 U), soybean oil (2.0 U), and biodiesel (1.5 U). The emulsion formulated on motor oil remained stable for more than 200 h, which was explained by its average drop diameter (~0–10 μm). The surface‐active properties of surfactin did not seem to be affected by different NaCl concentrations, which may promote its applicability in high salt environments, such as oil spills in marine areas.