bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully 3D‐Printed, Ultrathin Capacitors via Multi‐Material Microsputtering
Authors: Kornbluth Yosef S. , Parameswaran Lalitha , Mathews Richard , Racz Livia M. , Velásquez‐García Luis F.
Published: April 2022

This study reports the first fully additively manufactured capacitors as a proof‐of‐concept demonstration of direct‐write, ultrathin‐film electronic components made via multi‐material microplasma sputtering. This is also the first demonstration of a cleanroom‐quality, multi‐material electrical device produced entirely through additive manufacturing. Ultrathin metal and dielectric films are deposited at <80 °C and atmospheric pressure conditions on a substrate using a novel, continuously fed, dual target microsputtering printhead. The conductive films are created by sputtering gold in an air atmosphere and shown to attain near‐bulk electrical resistivity. The dielectric films are created by sputtering aluminum in a gas blend of argon and air; the aluminum oxidizes in the high‐energy, high‐collisionality plasma, forming alumina nanoparticles that are deposited on the substrate. Ultra‐thin (35 nm) alumina films showed extremely high resistivity (100 GΩ‐m) and dielectric strength (6.2 GV m−1). Also, the frequency response of the capacitor is satisfactorily described by the universal dielectric response typically found in heterogenous dielectrics. It is hypothesized that the dielectric response is the result of the presence of condensed water in the pores of the alumina film.
Time‐Resolved Orientation and Phase Analysis of Lead Halide Perovskite Film Annealing Probed by In Situ GIWAXS
Authors: Reus Manuel A. , Reb Lennart K. , Weinzierl Alexander F. , Weindl Christian L. , Guo Renjun , Xiao Tianxiao , Schwartzkopf Matthias , Chumakov Andrei , Roth Stephan V. , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: April 2022

Scalable thin‐film deposition methods are increasingly important for hybrid lead halide perovskite thin films. Understanding the structure evolution during non‐equilibrium processes helps to find suitable materials and processing parameters to produce films with well‐performing optoelectronic properties. Here, spin‐cast and slot‐die coated bilayers of lead iodide (PbI2) and methylammonium iodide (MAI) are investigated by in situ grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering during the thermal annealing process, which converts the bilayer into methylammonium lead iodide (MAPI). Photoluminescence (PL) and UV/Vis measurements show increasing crystallinity during the annealing process and a slight PL red‐shift of the spin‐cast film, attributed to crystallite coalescence that is not prominent for the slot‐die coated film. The disintegration of the solvent‐precursor complex (MA)2(Pb3I8) ⋅ 2 DMSO and conversion into perovskite are followed in situ and differences in the morphology and time evolution are observed. In both, spin‐cast and slot‐die coated thin‐films, the isotropic orientation is dominant, however, in the slot‐die coated films, the perovskite crystallites have an additional face‐on orientation ((110) parallel to substrate) that is not detected in spin‐cast films. An Avrami model is applied for the perovskite crystal growth that indicates reduced dimensionality of the growth for the printed thin films.
Electron Delocalization in CsPbI3 Quantum Dots Enables Efficient Light‐Emitting Diodes with Improved Efficiency Roll‐Off
Authors: Yang Shixu , Bi Chenghao , Dong Wei , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zheng Weitao , Choy Wallace C. H. , Tian Jianjun
Published: April 2022

Perovskite quantum dot (QD) charging is prone to occur during light‐emitting diode (LED) operation due to the electron accumulation inside the QD emitters, which is caused by the unbalanced charge injection and carrier transportation. Here in order to address this issue, an electron attractor of phenethylammonium (PEA+) is introduced to the surface of perovskite QDs. The PEA+ conjugated ligands can reversibly store and release electrons driven by the electron local density of states redistribution, which enhances the delocalization of electrons in QDs, and thus suppresses QD charging at high carrier concentrations, as evidenced by the excitation energy dependent photoluminescence. Besides, PEA+ down‐shifts the Fermi level of perovskite QDs, consequently increases the hole concentration, leading to greatly improved hole conduction. Halogen‐rich synthesis environment also reduces the number of halogen vacancies, consequently narrows the distribution of electronic states at the band edges, leading to slightly improved electron conduction. Taking advantage of the enhanced electron delocalization and improved charge transportation, the CsPbI3 QDs LEDs show the maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 15.6% with a low efficiency roll‐off, and the maximum luminance of 1634 cd m−2.
Transversal Halide Motion Intensifies Band‐To‐Band Transitions in Halide Perovskites
Authors: Gehrmann Christian , Caicedo‐Dávila Sebastián , Zhu Xiangzhou , Egger David A.
Published: April 2022

Despite their puzzling vibrational characteristics that include strong signatures of anharmonicity and thermal disorder already around room temperature, halide perovskites (HaPs) exhibit favorable optoelectronic properties for applications in photovoltaics and beyond. Whether these vibrational properties are advantageous or detrimental to their optoelectronic properties remains, however, an important open question. Here, this issue is addressed by investigation of the finite‐temperature optoelectronic properties in the prototypical cubic CsPbBr3, using first‐principles molecular dynamics based on density‐functional theory. It is shown that the dynamic flexibility associated with HaPs enables the so‐called transversality, which manifests as a preference for large halide displacements perpendicular to the Pb‐Br‐Pb bonding axis. The authors find that transversality is concurrent with vibrational anharmonicity and leads to a rapid rise in the joint density of states, which is favorable for photovoltaics since this implies sharp optical absorption profiles. These findings are contrasted to the case of PbTe, a material that shares several key properties with CsPbBr3 but cannot exhibit any transversality and, hence, is found to exhibit much wider band‐edge distributions. The authors conclude that the dynamic structural flexibility in HaPs and their unusual vibrational characteristics might not just be a mere coincidence, but play active roles in establishing their favorable optoelectronic properties.
Disentangling Memristive and Memcapacitive Effects in Droplet Interface Bilayers Using Dynamic Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Sacci Robert L. , Scott Haden L. , Liu Zening , Bolmatov Dima , Doughty Benjamin , Katsaras John , Collier C. Patrick
Published: April 2022

The underlying principles for generating intelligent behavior in living organisms are fundamentally different from those in traditional solid‐state circuits. Biomimetic neuromorphic equivalents based on biological membranes offer novel implementation of tunable plasticity and diverse mechanisms to control functionality. Here, dynamic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (dEIS) to probe diphytanoylphosphatidylcholine (DPhPC) droplet interface bilayers (DIBs) to better understand the differences in molecular level structure/dynamics that give rise to hysteretic loops and neuromorphic, memelement behaviors in lipid bilayers in response to electrical biasing is used. Importantly, this system does not have ion‐conducting channels and is, therefore, not expected to show memristive behavior. Surprisingly, both memristive and memcapacitive behaviors by measuring the time‐dependent complex impedance of DPhPC DIBs are detected. It is shown that nonlinear memristance can originate from structural changes in the bilayer, affecting its dielectric properties. This novel dEIS application allows for the simultaneous analysis of the system's changing memristive and memcapacitive properties, which originate from different molecular restructuring processes. Moreover, and importantly, access to this type of information increases the number of neuromorphic processes supported simultaneously in a single two‐terminal device.
Screening Switching Materials with Low Leakage Current and High Thermal Stability for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Wu Renjie , Jia Shujing , Gotoh Tamihiro , Luo Qing , Song Zhitang , Zhu Min
Published: April 2022

Neuromorphic computing implemented with spiking neural networks is an energy efficient computing paradigm to break through the Von Neumann bottleneck in the future. Ovonic threshold switching (OTS) selector is considered to be a promising spiking neuron candidate. As ≈1011artificial neurons are needed for brain‐inspired computing, leakage current of OTS devices would waste enormous power. OTS devices with ultralow leakage current are deeply desired. Since the leakage current is closely related to the bandgap of OTS materials and only the amorphous one shows the volatile switching property, here binary gallium sulfide (GaS), characterized by 2.53 eV large band‐gap and ≈550 °C high crystallization temperature is singled out, as the most appealing OTS material. High‐density trap states, an essential prerequisite of the OTS material, are detected in the amorphous GaS. Indeed, the OTS behaviors of the GaS‐based device are directly observed. The simple OTS device could provide 21.23 MA cm−2large ON current density, and ≈10−8 A low OFF current and ≤10 ns switching speed. Furthermore, it is also used to build GaS‐based leakage integrate and fire neurons for future neuromorphic computing. This study provides a new idea for material design before device preparation and takes a neuron as an example.
Vegetation‐related influences on carbon and water dynamics of two temperate forage crops
Authors: De Haan Kevin , Khomik Myroslava , Kessel Eric , Green Adam , Kompanizare Mazda , Helgason Warren , Macrae Merrin L. , Petrone Richard M.
Published: April 2022

Improving understanding of how water use efficiency (WUE), evapotranspiration (ET), and gross primary productivity (GPP) (CO2 exchange) vary across agricultural systems can help farmers better prepare for an uncertain future due to climate change by assessing water requirements for a crop as a function of current environmental conditions. This study: (a) quantified field‐scale plant–water–carbon dynamics for silage maize (Zea mays L.) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) crops – two dominant forage crops in southern Ontario, Canada; and (b) identified differences in plant carbon–water dynamics between these two crops, relating these differences to vegetation‐driven ecosystem controls. Climate and soil properties were similar between the two study sites, and water availability was not limiting, suggesting that the overall temporal differences in carbon–water relations were driven by vegetation differences, mainly crop choice and management practices. Alfalfa had greater seasonal GPP, ET, and WUE than maize, due to a longer growing season. Differences in daily WUE between maize and alfalfa were driven by differences in GPP rather than ET. Multiple harvests reduced leaf‐aging effects and promoted periods of rapid growth in alfalfa. In contrast, late seedling emergence and self‐shading reduced GPP in maize. Under a warmer future climate, crop selection (i.e., perennial vs. annual), harvest regimes, and changes in growing season length should be considered when trying to manage for increased WUE. However, longer duration studies to validate these results are required to better address the impacts of climatic variability—especially antecedent conditions—to better inform future crop choices within a climate change context.
Control and Autonomy of Microrobots: Recent Progress and Perspective
Authors: Jiang Jialin , Yang Zhengxin , Ferreira Antoine , Zhang Li
Published: April 2022

After decades of development, microrobots have exhibited great application potential in the biomedical field, such as minimally invasive surgery, drug delivery, and bio‐sensing. Compared with conventional medical robotic systems, microrobots may be capable of reaching more narrow and vulnerable regions in the human body with minimal damage. However, limited by the small scale of microrobots, microprocessors, power supplies, and sensors can hardly be integrated on‐board. Thus, new strategies for the actuation and feedback for microrobots need to be explored. Furthermore, the open‐loop control method accomplished by operators may lack accuracy, and long‐duration operation could bring a severe physical challenge in many applications. Consequently, the automatic control of microrobots with the aid of control theories is developed to improve the control efficiency and precision. To further promote the automation level of microrobots, machine learning algorithms are expected to provide a solution to let microrobots adapt to more dynamic environments and undertake more complex medical tasks. Herein, a systematic introduction of the manipulation of microrobots from open‐loop to closed‐loop control is given in this review. It is envisioned that microrobots will play an important role in future biomedical applications.
Stabile Ambipolare Heptacene und deren Redox‐Spezies
Authors: Zeitter Nico , Hippchen Nikolai , Maier Steffen , Rominger Frank , Dreuw Andreas , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: April 2022

Durch sechsfache TIPS‐Ethinylierung, kombiniert mit vierfacher Bromierung des Acen‐Rückgrats, wurde ein langlebiges, lösliches Heptacen erhalten; mittels Stille‐Kupplung wurde das π‐System zu einem langlebigen Tetrabenzononacen erweitert. Durch die Einführung von TIPS‐Ethinylgruppen an jedem zweiten Benzolring wurden für beide Arten von Acenen besonders hohe Stabilitäten festgestellt. Das Tetrabromheptacen ist ein ambipolares Transistormaterial (bis zu 0.036 cm2 V−1 s−1 im n‐Kanal), was durch die Erzeugung seines Monoanions und Monokations bestätigt werden konnte.
Zur Alterung von barocken Putzlattendecken
Authors: Müller David , Schütz Karl G. , Mohr Bernhard
Published: April 2022

Im süddeutschen Raum sind viele Kirchen von flachen Putzdecken überspannt. In den vergangenen Jahren kam es vermehrt zu Teilabstürzen an diesen Decken. Konstruktive Mängel bei der Herstellung oder statische Mängel am Tragwerk können Gründe hierfür sein. Darüber hinaus lassen die verwendeten Materialien mit sehr unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften auf einen Alterungsprozess schließen. Um diesen nachzuweisen, wird ein statisches Modell aufgebaut und die Beanspruchung infolge Quellen, Schwinden und Temperaturänderungen als Last aufgebracht. Die Berechnungen zeigen, dass es hierdurch zu Spannungen in der Putzdecke kommt. Durch das Schwinden der Holzlatte entstehen zwischen Holz und Putz nicht aufnehmbare Zugspannungen, sodass es zum Abriss des Putzes von der Latte kommt. Hierbei lösen sich Putzpartikel, die in den Zwischenraum zwischen Holz und Steg fallen. Beim Quellen der Holzlatten entstehen Druckspannungen senkrecht zum Steg. Die Putzpartikel im Zwischenraum behindern das Quellen, wodurch Spaltzugkräfte entstehen, die zu einer Rissbildung führen. Dieser Vorgang wiederholt sich bei barocken Putzdecken jährlich über einen Zeitraum von ca. 300 Jahren. Es kommt zu einem stetigen Anstieg der Spannungen, sodass von einem Alterungsprozess der Putzlattendecken gesprochen werden kann.
Development and validation of an LC–MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of remdesivir and its hydrolyzed metabolite and nucleoside, and its application in a pharmacokinetic study of normal and diabetic nephropathy mice
Authors: Yuan Meng , Hu Wenjuan , Feng Yingying , Tong Yue , Wang Xin , Tan Bo , Xu Hui , Liu Jia
Published: April 2022

Remdesivir (RDV), a phosphoramidate prodrug, has broad‐spectrum antiviral activity. It is the first antiviral drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of COVID‐19. Remdesivir is rapidly metabolized in the body to produce derivatives: alanine metabolite (RM‐442) and RDV C‐nucleoside (RN). Here, the phosphatase inhibitor PhosSTOP and carboxylesterase inhibitor 5,5′‐dithiobis‐2‐nitrobenzoic acid were used to improve stability of RDV in mouse blood. We developed a rapid and sensitive LC–MS/MS method to simultaneously quantify RDV, RM‐442 and RN in mouse blood. Chromatographic separation was achieved by gradient elution on an Acquity HSS T3 column. The run time was 3.2 min. The linearity ranges of the analytes were 0.5–1,000 ng/ml for RDV and 5–10,000 ng/ml for both RM‐442 and RN. The method had an acceptable precision (RSD < 8.4% for RDV, RSD < 10.7% for RM‐442 and RSD < 7.2% for RN) and accuracy (91.0–106.3% for RDV, 92.5–98.6% for RM‐442 and 87.5–98.4% for RN). This method was successfully applied to analyze RDV, RM‐442 and RN in the blood of normal and diabetic nephropathy DBA/2 J mice after intravenous injection of RDV at 20 mg/kg. The area under the concentration–time curve of RN between the normal and diabetic nephropathy mice showed a significant difference (P < 0.01).
Determining the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy interventions based on the transdiagnostic approach in the treatment of common mental health problems: Presenting an experience from the Islamic Republic of Iran
Authors: Falahat Katayoun , Baradarn Eftekhari Monir , Dejman Masoumeh , Forouzan Ameneh Setareh , Mahmoodi Zohreh , Padyab Mojgan , Tavassoli Samira
Published: April 2022

Introduction

There is growing support to develop transdiagnostic approaches that provide new insights into mental health problems and cut across the existing traditional diagnostic boundaries all over the world. The present study was conducted to test the transdiagnostic cognitive behavioral therapy (TCBT) approach in treating patients with common mental health problems and evaluate its effectiveness compared to the current treatment settings of the healthcare system.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Semnan Province, north of Iran. The study took pace in urban health centers. A sample of 520 Iranian adults, tested as positive on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, were enrolled. Participants who received a score above the cut‐off point in any of the three mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, or obsessive compulsive disorder [OCD]) based on the locally validated study instrument were randomly allocated to the study. The intervention group received TCBT during eight sessions provided by trained general health service providers without previous mental health training; the standby control group received Mental Health Services as Usual (MHSU). The post‐test interviews were conducted using the study instrument after the completion of both group treatments.

Results

A total of 459 individuals (87.8% female) ultimately entered the study. The withdrawal rate was 24% (53 participants in the TCBT and 56 in the MHSU). Reduction in depression, anxiety, and OCD symptoms was significant within each group and when comparing TCBT and MHSU (mean difference).

Conclusion

This trial recommends that the transdiagnostic CBT approach can be effective in improving common mental health problems and functions among individuals by trained general healthcare providers in the primary healthcare system. The results can be more useful in decision making when defining the process of providing mental healthcare in the National Primary Healthcare System.
From offline learning to online learning: Moderating effect of relationship inertia and satisfaction
Authors: Liu Jinfa
Published: April 2022

The progress of educational technology and the demand of home learning under COVID‐19 have promoted the rapid development of online learning all over the world. The existing research focuses on offline learning or online learning but seldom discusses their switching process. This paper uses the questionnaire method and structural equation model to analyze the influencing factors of switching intention and behavior from offline learning to online learning. The results show that the switching intention is significantly affected by perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and computer self‐efficacy, and negatively affected by the perceived risk. The switching intention makes a significant positive effect on switching behavior. When the learner's offline learning relationship inertia and satisfaction are higher, the relationship between switching intention and switching behavior will be weakened. At the end of the paper, some suggestions are put forward for reference for the related parties of online learning.
Implications of using classroom response systems (CRS) on learning performance: An experience of learning analytics
Authors: Garcia‐Lopez Eva , Garcia‐Cabot Antonio
Published: April 2022

The increasing use of technology among new generations of students provides a unique opportunity to take advantage of its multiple benefits in the academic environment. For example, mobile devices can be used in the learning process to improve academic results on learners' engagement or to decrease the dropout rate among students. This study seeks to analyze the impact that the implementation of a Classroom Response System (CRS) such as Kahoot could have on the development of a university subject in the Computer Science Degree and Computer Engineering Degree. More specifically, the research is conducted in the subject of “Advanced Programming” and performs three main studies by comparing the results in five different assessment items in two different academic courses (control and experimental): The first one seeks to determine the impact that a CRS produces on academic performance, the second one analyzes the impact of a CRS on the dropout rate of students and finally, the third study analyzes the impact of a CRS according to whether the student is a first‐time student or a repeater one. The results show that using CRS improves academic performance in almost all cases, except for the most demanding exam. This also applies to first‐time enrolled students. However, for repeat students, in addition to this, their academic performance could not be either demonstrated in the laboratory part. Finally, in all cases (general, first‐time, and repeaters) the dropout rate was decreased (i.e., improved) only in the last exam.
Cross‐disciplinary curriculum integration spaces for emergency management engineering talent cultivation in higher education
Authors: Wei Yao‐Yao , Chen Wei‐Fan , Xie Tian , Peng Jian‐Jun
Published: April 2022

Cultivating cross‐disciplinary emergency management engineering talent is necessary and significant for responding to major emergencies. As barriers to intercourse and cognition exist between the different disciplines, the massive, heterogeneous, unordered cross‐disciplinary curricula are difficult to integrate. To solve these problems and integrate the courses from various disciplinary curriculum plans on demand, the cross‐disciplinary curriculum integration spaces (CCIS) method is proposed based on the cross‐domain integrating and reasoning spaces method and IOPE model. First, using space modeling, the key structure of cross‐disciplinary talent demand and various curriculum plans can be dimensionally transformed and formally expressed in the CCIS spaces. Second, to solve possible semantic inconsistencies between curriculum plans from different disciplines, relevant interoperable mediating methods are present. Furthermore, the inputs‐outputs‐preconditions‐effects (IOPE)‐based integration algorithm of CCIS spaces is proposed to integrate and reorganize the disciplinary curriculum plans into the optimized cross‐disciplinary curriculum plans according to a new talent demand. Two applied examples and their experiment results show that the reliable and valid cross‐disciplinary curriculum plan for responding to the compound talent demand can be obtained with the proposed CCIS method.
Identification and validation of a ferroptosis‐related gene signature for predicting survival in skin cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Ping Shuai , Wang Siyuan , Zhao Yingsong , He Jinbing , Li Guanglei , Li Dinglin , Wei Zhuo , Chen Jianghai
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Ferroptosis plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of melanoma. This study developed a robust signature with ferroptosis‐related genes (FRGs) and assessed the ability of this signature to predict OS in patients with skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM).

Methods

RNA‐sequencing data and clinical information of melanoma patients were extracted from TCGA, GEO, and GTEx. Univariate, multivariate, and LASSO regression analyses were conducted to identify the gene signature. A 10 FRG signature was an independent and strong predictor of survival. The predictive performance was assessed using ROC curve. The functions of this gene signature were assessed by GO and KEGG analysis. The statuses of low‐risk and high‐risk groups according to the gene signature were compared by GSEA. In addition, we investigated the possible relationship of FRGs with immunotherapy efficacy.

Results

A prognostic signature with 10 FRGs (CYBB, IFNG, FBXW7, ARNTL, PROM2, GPX2, JDP2, SLC7A5, TUBE1, and HAMP) was identified by Cox regression analysis. This signature had a higher prediction efficiency than clinicopathological features (AUC = 0.70). The enrichment analyses of DEGs indicated that ferroptosis‐related immune pathways were largely enriched. Furthermore, GSEA showed that ferroptosis was associated with immunosuppression in the high‐risk group. Finally, immune checkpoints such as PDCD‐1 (PD‐1), CTLA4, CD274 (PD‐L1), and LAG3 were also differential expression in two risk groups.

Conclusions

The 10 FRGs signature were a strong predictor of OS in SKCM and could be used to predict therapeutic targets for melanoma.
Construction and validation of a prognostic model for kidney renal clear cell carcinoma based on podocyte‐associated genes
Authors: Chen Can , Yang Rui‐Xia , Zhang Jie‐Xin , Xu Hua‐Guo
Published: April 2022

Background

As the most common renal malignancy, kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) has a high prevalence and death rate as well as a poor response to treatment. Developing an efficient prognostic model is essential for accurately predicting the outcome and therapeutic benefit of KIRC patients.

Methods

Gene expression profiles of podocyte‐associated genes (PAGs) were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas and GEO datasets. Cox regression and Lasso regression analyses were then used for filtering prognosis‐associated PAGs. Risk score (RS) was computed from these genetic characteristics. Kaplan–Meier analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied for ascertaining the prognostic value. Stratified analysis was used to sufficiently validate model performance. Concordance index was used to compare the predictive ability of different models. Immuno‐infiltration analysis and immunophenoscore were utilized for the prediction of patient reaction to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

Results

WT1, ANLN, CUBN, OSGEP, and RHOA were significantly associated with KIRC prognosis. Prognostic analysis indicated that high‐RS patients have a significantly poorer outcome. Cox regression analysis demonstrated a potential for RS to be an independent prognostic factor. Pathway enrichment results indicated a lower enrichment of cancer‐related biological pathways in the low‐RS subgroup. Immune infiltration analysis and IPS demonstrated greater responsiveness to ICIs in the high RS group.

Conclusions

This podocyte‐associated KIRC prognostic model can effectively predict KIRC prognosis and immunotherapy response, which may help to provide clinicians with more effective treatment strategies.
Uncapped education‐related benefits for student‐athletes can impact their federal student aid
Authors: Cartwright Anne , Montgomery Jason , Schneider Scott
Published: April 2022

In the wake of NCAA v. Alston, student‐athletes’ education‐ related benefits may impact the amount of federal student aid that college student‐athletes can receive.
NIL: Consider lessons from the past about disclosing records under FERPA
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: April 2022

State laws governing name, image, and likeness have failed to address what can be disclosed to third parties about student‐athletes’ NIL agreements.
Broadening the Scope of the Flavin‐Tag Method by Improving Flavin Incorporation and Incorporating Flavin Analogs
Authors: Tong Yapei , Loonstra Marnix R. , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: April 2022

Methods for facile site‐selective modifications of proteins are in high demand. We have recently shown that a flavin transferase can be used for site‐specific covalent attachment of a chromo‐ and fluorogenic flavin (FMN) to any targeted protein. Although this Flavin‐tag method resulted in efficient labeling of proteins in vitro, labelling in E. coli cells resulted in partial flavin incorporation. It was also restricted in the type of installed label with only one type of flavin, FMN, being incorporated. Here, we report on an extension of the Flavin‐tag method that addresses previous limitations. We demonstrate that co‐expression of FAD synthetase improves the flavin incorporation efficiency, allowing complete flavin‐labeling of a target protein in E. coli cells. Furthermore, we have found that various flavin derivatives and even a nicotinamide can be covalently attached to a target protein, rendering this method even more versatile and valuable.
Effect of particle size, flour:water ratio and type of pulse on the physicochemical and functional properties of wet protein extraction
Authors: Higa Federica A. , Boyd Lindsey , Sopiwnyk Elaine , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives

Extraction of proteins by alkaline extraction followed by isoelectric precipitation at three different flour: water (f:w) ratios (1:10, 1:7, and 1:5) were investigated for four pulse flours: yellow pea (YP), green lentil (GL), kabuli chickpea (CH), and navy bean (NB). Pulse flours were prepared by pre‐breaking the seeds and milling into flour using a Ferkar (knife) mill with either a 0.5 mm (P1) or 1.27 mm (P2) screen. Surface properties and functionality of the protein concentrates were evaluated.

Findings

Extraction yields showed no major differences between the investigated f:w ratios. Protein yields decreased significantly as the amount of water decreased. The 1:10 f:w ratio was selected to perform extractions with coarser flours (1.27 mm; P2). Results showed that flour with a smaller particle size increased yields by 0.4% to 3.2% for extraction, and 7.9%–10.3% for protein. Functional properties showed no major differences between proteins extracted at different f:w ratios, although differences were found between the different pulse types. In some cases, P2 and P1 concentrates differed in functional properties, but this was not consistent for all pulses.

Conclusions

Finer flour (P1) and higher f:w ratio (1:10) resulted in higher extraction and protein yields.

Significance and Novelty

This study highlights the importance of milling and control of the particle size of the flours and water use on the preparation of protein concentrates.
Cutaneous allergic reaction correlates with anti‐erythropoietin antibodies in dialysis patient developing pure red cell aplasia
Authors: Badiu Iuliana , Diena Davide , Guida Giuseppe , Ferrando Carlo , Rapezzi Davide , Besso Luca
Published: April 2022

We describe a case of concomitant erythropoietin allergy and resistance with a possible IgE and IgG‐mediated immune response, in which the local allergic cutaneous symptoms preceded the antibody‐mediated anemia.
Reversible global hypoperfusion in an adult patient with a mixed diabetic ketoacidosis/hyperglycemic hyperosmolar coma: A case report
Authors: Petroulia Valentina Dafni , Kurmann Christoph , Haenggi Matthias , Wagner Franca , Hakim Arsany
Published: April 2022

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus. We report a case of global hypoperfusion in an elderly patient on CT, with complete resolution shown on early MRI follow‐up. Metabolic causes have always to be included in the differential diagnosis of diffuse hypoperfusion in the appropriate clinical setting.
Prostate cancer dural metastasis resembling a meningioma
Authors: Shimada Hitomi , Tago Masaki
Published: April 2022

CT images of a 56‐year‐old man with headache showed a meningioma‐like mass in the occipital region. The tumor was well‐defined and non‐uniform with bone thickening and no internal calcification. Eventually, he was diagnosed on the basis of histopathology and immunostaining findings as having a dural metastasis from a prostate cancer.
Bilateral posterior lamellar corneal transplant surgery in an infant of 17 weeks old: Surgical challenges and the added value of intraoperative optical coherence tomography
Authors: Muijzer Marc B. , Kroes Hester Y. , van Hasselt Peter M. , Wisse Robert P. L.
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to describe the surgical challenges, management, and value of intraoperative optical coherence tomography in a case of a bilateral Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty corneal transplantation at 17 weeks of age for the treatment of severe posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy resulting from a de novo mutation of the OVOL2‐gene.
Compound‐complex odontoma: A rare case report
Authors: Khalifa Chaima , Omami Mounir , Garma Maroua , Slim Afef , Sioud Sameh , Selmi Jamil
Published: April 2022

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies odontomas as odontogenic tumors, consisting of odontogenic epithelium and ectomesenchyme. They result from developmental abnormalities and, therefore, do not constitute authentic tumors. It is a local malformation that has no growth autonomy. They are rarely symptomatic and are usually discovered accidentally during the realization of a radiographic examination. There are two variants of odontomas: complex and compound. Complex odontomas are made of a mass consisting of an anarchic assembly of mineralized tissue (enamel, dentin, and cementum) and dental pulp; while compound odontomas are consisting of a set of small rudimentary teeth, assembling in clusters. They rarely show the features of both types together. The aim of this work is to report a rare presentation of an odontoma in a 24‐year‐old male patient, which present the characteristics of both complex and compound variants. Surgical excision of the lesion was performed. Anatomopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. Clinical and radiological survey does not show any recurrence.
Atlantoaxial instability and cervical noninfectious spondylodiscitis in a patient with Wegener’s granulomatosis: A case report
Authors: Rezvani Majid , Sabouri Masih , Aminmansour Bahram , Tabesh Homayoun , Shafiei Mehdi , Mahmoodkhani Mehdi , Rahmani Peiman , Falahpour Soheil , Sourani Arman , Mahdavi Sadegh Baradaran
Published: April 2022

A 61‐year‐old male patient with Wegener's granulomatosis was admitted due to neck pain and quadriparesis. Clinical evaluation showed severe cervical noninfectious spondylodiscitis, myelopathy, sagittal imbalance, and atlantoaxial instability. A combined anterior and posterior approach was implemented. Postoperative clinical evaluation showed improved neurologic status.
Water Control with Gels Based on Synthetic Polymers under Extreme Conditions in Oil Wells
Authors: Guzmán-Lucero Diego , Martínez-Palou Rafael , Palomeque-Santiago Jorge Froylán , Vega-Paz Araceli , Guzmán-Pantoja Javier , López-Falcón Dennys Armando , Guevara-Rodríguez Felipe de Jesus , García-Muñoz Norma Araceli , Castillo-Acosta Silvia , Likhanova Natalya Victorovna
Published: April 2022

A bibliographic review of research works dealing with gels based on synthetic polymers and their application in water control under harsh conditions was compiled. The extreme conditions were defined to be above 100 °C with 100 000 ppm of total dissolved solids, including divalent ions. Works describing laboratory experiments and oilfield implementations were also considered. According to current literature, some gels based on synthetic polymers have displayed desirable properties for water control, but in many cases, research is still at laboratory level. Therefore, further studies are required to understand the mode of action and stability of gels and polymers submitted to hard conditions in order to produce high‐performance prototypes.
Encapsulation of Quercetin in a Mixed Nanomicellar System to Enhance its Cytotoxicity against Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Davarnejad Reza , Layeghy Kiyana , Soleymani Meysam , Ayazi Arvin
Published: April 2022

The therapeutic potential of quercetin‐loaded Pluronic® F‐127 (PF‐127)/Tween 80 mixed nanomicelles as a passive targeted drug delivery system for breast cancer therapy is evaluated. Quercetin‐loaded mixed nanomicelles with different mass ratios of drug/PF‐127/Tween 80 were prepared by thin‐film hydration method. The physical interactions of quercetin with PF‐127 and Tween 80 in an optimal ratio were investigated. The results of in vitro drug release experiments showed that the mixed micellar system exhibits a prolonged and sustained release behavior compared to the solution of free quercetin. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies of quercetin‐loaded mixed nanomicelles on breast cancer cells revealed that the encapsulated drug has a lower half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value compared to the free drug.
TA Luft und Sterilflanschverbindungen
Authors: Gross Thomas , Riedl Alexander , Achenbach Manfred , Richter Bernhard
Published: April 2022

Unter Federführung von Merck und der fachlichen Beratung durch die FH Münster wurde ein Fachgutachten in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Prüflabor Richter und der Einbindung eines Sachverständigenbüros zur änderung der TA Luft erarbeitet. Diese Ausarbeitung wurden in den relevanten fachlichen Gremien beim VDI und VCI vorgestellt und wird zukünftig für Flanschverbindungen im Kraftnebenschluss als neue Nachweismethode in die Normung (voraussichtlich VDI 2290) mit aufgenommen.
Explosionsschutz in der Prozesstechnik
Authors: Hansjürgen Dirk
Published: April 2022

Ob Umwelt‐ und Baustoffindustrie, Chemie‐ und Pharmaindustrie, Kosmetik‐ oder Lebensmittelherstellung. In nahezu allen Industriebereichen werden Schüttgüter gemischt. Dabei kommen Mischer auch in explosionsgefährdeten Bereichen zum Einsatz. Ein präventive
A practical framework for the targeted use of total neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer
Authors: Bhutiani Neal , Peacock Oliver , Chang George J.
Published: April 2022

Total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) for rectal cancer is the preoperative delivery of radiation or chemoradiotherapy as well as systemic chemotherapy for the purpose of improving treatment completion rates and decreasing toxicity, maximizing the primary tumor response, and improving survival for patients with rectal cancer. This review summarizes the data surrounding TNT, including several recent randomized controlled trials. Moreover, it reviews the literature regarding high‐quality surgery and the role of radiation and chemotherapy in the treatment of rectal cancer in the modern era. Finally, it presents an evidence‐based protocol for the selective use of TNT in the treatment of patients with rectal cancer.
Photochemical Hydrogen Storage with Hexaazatrinaphthylene
Authors: Morawski Olaf , Gawryś Paweł , Sadło Jarosław , Sobolewski Andrzej L.
Published: April 2022

When irradiated with violet light, hexaazatrinaphthylene (HATN) extracts a hydrogen atom from an alcohol forming a long‐living hydrogenated species. The apparent kinetic isotope effect for fluorescence decay time in deuterated methanol (1.56) indicates that the lowest singlet excited state of the molecule is a precursor for intermolecular hydrogen transfer. The photochemical hydrogenation occurs in several alcohols (methanol, ethanol, isopropanol) but not in water. Hydrogenated HATN can be detected optically by an absorption band at 1.78 eV as well as with EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) and NMR techniques. Mass spectrometry of photoproducts reveal di‐hydrogenated HATN structures along with methoxylated and methylated HATN molecules which are generated through the reaction with methoxy radicals (remnants from alcohol splitting). Experimental findings are consistent with the theoretical results which predicted that for the excited state of the HATN‐solvent molecular complex, there exists a barrierless hydrogen transfer from methanol but a small barrier for the similar oxidation of water.
Clinical Pharmacology of Radiotheranostics in Oncology
Authors: te Beek Erik T. , Burggraaf Jacobus , Teunissen Jaap J. M. , Vriens Dennis
Published: April 2022

The combined use of diagnostic and therapeutic radioligands with the same molecular target, also known as theranostics, enables accurate patient selection, targeted therapy, and prediction of treatment response. Radioiodine, bone‐seeking radioligands and norepinephrine analogs have been used for many years for diagnostic imaging and radioligand therapy of thyroid carcinoma, bone metastases, pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, and neuroblastoma, respectively. In recent years, radiolabeled somatostatin analogs and prostate‐specific membrane antigen ligands have shown clinical efficacy in the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors and prostate cancer, respectively. Several candidate compounds are targeting novel theranostic targets such as fibroblast activation protein, C‐X‐C chemokine receptor 4, and gastrin‐releasing peptide receptor. In addition, several strategies to improve efficacy of radioligand therapy are being evaluated, including dosimetry‐based dose optimization, multireceptor targeting, upregulation of target receptors, radiosensitization, pharmacogenomics, and radiation genomics. Design and evaluation of novel radioligands and optimization of dose and dose schedules, within the complex context of individualized multimodal cancer treatment, requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes clinical pharmacology. Significant increases in the use of these radiopharmaceuticals in routine oncological practice can be expected, which will have major impact on patient care as well as (radio)pharmacy utilization.
Methyl Oleate Synthesis by TiO2Photocatalytic Esterification of Oleic Acid: Optimisation by Response Surface Quadratic Methodology, Reaction Kinetics and Thermodynamics
Authors: Welter Rosilene A. , Santana Harrson , de la Torre Lucimara G. , Robertson Mark , Taranto Osvaldir Pereira , Oelgemöller Michael
Published: April 2022

Methyl oleate, an example of a FAME (fatty acid methyl ester), was produced by oleic acid (OA) photoesterification with TiO2and UVA light. Different parameters were evaluated and optimised: catalyst pretreatment, temperature (25–65 °C), catalyst loading (1–30 % w/wOA) and oleic acid : alcohol molar ratio (1 : 3–1 : 55). Response surface quadratic methodology obtained by central composite rotational design (RSM‐CCRD) was used to evaluate the main operational conditions of the photoesterification process. A high conversion of 98 % (±0.8) at 55 °C, 20 % TiO2(w/wOA), and 1(OA) : 55(methanol) molar ratio was achieved. The photoesterification mechanism is furthermore proposed. The Langmuir‐Hinshelwood kinetic model considered the forward and backward reaction as first‐order fits with the best accuracy (R2of 0.997). The thermodynamic results (ΔG338.15K=−20.75 kJ/mol, ΔH=13.75 kJ/mol, and ΔS=0.47 kJ/mol.K) indicate that the operating conditions are important, both to supply the energy requirement of the reaction, but also to increase the miscibility of the reactants.
Optimizing the Electrolyte Systems for Na3(VO1−xPO4)2F1+2x (0≤x≤1) Cathode and Understanding their Interfacial Chemistries Towards High‐Rate Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: He Jiarong , Tao Tao , Yang Fan , Sun Zhipeng
Published: April 2022

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Prof. Dr. Zhipeng Sun at the Guangdong University of Technology. The image shows how electrolyte composition and their interfacial chemistries play a crucial role in manipulating the cathode/electrolyte interphases (CEI) and their corresponding high‐rate electrochemical performance for sodium‐ion batteries. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202102522.
Stable isotopes reveal minimal spatial and temporal variation in diet of the wrymouth (Cryptacanthodes maculatus)
Authors: Geissinger Emilie A. , Beal Brian F. , Ambrose William G.
Published: April 2022

Predation by infaunal and epibenthic predators is often an important determinant of marine soft‐bottom community structure. The role of the predatory, benthic‐dwelling fish, the wrymouth (Cryptacanthodes maculatus), in the soft‐bottom food web has received little attention. The purpose of our study was to examine spatial and temporal variability in diet and trophic position of wrymouth at two lower intertidal sites in eastern Maine, USA. Wrymouth, their potential prey, and primary producers were collected in the spring and summer of 2013 in Machiasport and Beals, Maine. Stable isotope analysis was used to determine trophic position of the fish and its potential diet. Wrymouth δ13C signatures were influenced by location and ranged from −12.6‰ to −11.5‰, whereas δ15N signatures varied little (12.3‰–12.7‰) between locations or seasons. Wrymouth trophic position ranged from 3.02 to 3.48, indicating that they are tertiary consumers. The intertidal zone consisted of two distinct clusters of taxa, characterized by the presence of either macroalgae (mostly fucoids) or eelgrass (Zostera marina). Wrymouth diet consisted primarily of predatory polychaetes. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope signatures varied across seasons and locations for multiple species, including our base species, Mya arenaria. Results suggest wrymouth are generalist feeders with limited seasonal and spatial variation in diet. Bottom‐up processes, however, are fundamentally different between the two study sites and influence their trophic structure. This result highlights the importance of collecting baseline data and evaluating trophic interactions at multiple spatial scales within small regional areas in coastal systems.
Utilizing causal diagrams across quasi‐experimental approaches
Authors: Arif Suchinta , MacNeil M. Aaron
Published: April 2022

Recent developments in computer science have substantially advanced the use of observational causal inference under Pearl's structural causal model (SCM) framework. A key tool in the application of SCM is the use of casual diagrams, used to visualize the causal structure of a system or process under study. Here, we show how causal diagrams can be extended to ensure proper study design under quasi‐experimental settings, including propensity score analysis, before‐after‐control‐impact studies, regression discontinuity design, and instrumental variables. Causal diagrams represent a unified approach to variable selection across methodologies and should be routinely applied in ecology research with causal implications.