bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extreme Diffraction Control in Metagratings Leveraging Bound States in the Continuum and Exceptional Points
Authors: Deng Zi‐Lan , Li Feng‐Jun , Li Huanan , Li Xiangping , Alù Andrea
Published: March 2022

Coupled resonances in non‐Hermitian systems can lead to exotic optical features, such as bound states in the continuum (BICs) and exceptional points (EPs), which have been recently emerged as powerful tools to control the propagation and scattering of light. Yet, similar tools to control diffraction and engineer spatial wavefronts have remained elusive. Here, it is shown that, by operating a metagrating around BICs and EPs, it is possible to achieve an extreme degree of control over coupling to different diffraction orders. Subwavelength metallic slit arrays stacked on a metal‐insulator‐metal waveguide, enabling a careful control of the coupling between localized and guided modes are explored. By tuning the coupling strength from weak to strong, the overall spectral response can be tailored and the emergence of singular features, like BICs and EPs can be enabled. Perfect unitary diffraction efficiency with large spectrum selectivity is achieved around these singular features, with promising applications for selective wavefront shaping, filtering, and sensing.
Management of oral leukoplakia by ablative fractional laser‐assisted photodynamic therapy: A 3‐year retrospective study of 48 patients
Authors: Yao Yi‐Lin , Wang Yu‐Feng , Li Chen‐Xi , Wu Lan , Tang Guo‐Yao
Published: March 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to review the results of oral leucoplakia (OL) using ablative fractional laser‐assisted photodynamic therapy (AFL‐PDT) and to further evaluate the risk factors for recurrence and malignant transformation.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight patients diagnosed with OL using histopathology were enrolled in this study. All patients received one session of AFL‐PDT. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated 1 month posttreatment. Follow‐up was scheduled every 3 months in the first year and every 6 months thereafter.

Results

An overall positive response rate of 87.5% (42/48) was achieved, including 62.5% (30/48) complete responses and 25.0% (12/48) partial responses. During the 3‐year follow‐up period, the recurrence and malignant transformation rates were 37.5% (18/48) and 8.3% (4/48), respectively. Lesions on gingiva/palate seemed to be associated with recurrence (p < 0.001; odds ratio [OR]: 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–2.37). The severity of epithelial dysplasia (p = 0.02; OR: 2.93, 95% CI: 1.96–4.42) and recurrence (p = 0.016; OR: 3.14, 95% CI: 2.04–4.84) were associated with a predisposition to malignant transformation.

Conclusions

AFL‐PDT is an effective management of OL, but requires close follow‐up. OL lesions on the gingiva/palate are predisposed to recurrence. OLs that recur with moderate/severe epithelial dysplasia have a higher risk of transforming into oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Low‐Power Photodetectors Based on PVA‐Modified Reduced Graphene Oxide Hybrid Solutions
Authors: Shih Yi‐Shan , Li Wei‐Chen , Shen Jun‐Hao , Chu Shao‐Yu , Uen Wu‐Yih , Lee Hsin‐Ying , Lin Gong‐Ru , Chen Yu‐Cheng , Tu Wei‐Chen
Published: March 2022

Photodetectors based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have attracted much attention owing to their simple and low‐cost fabrication process. However, the aggregation and defects of rGO flakes still limit the performance of rGO photodetectors. Controlling the composition of rGO has become a vital factor for its prospective applications. For example, the interconnection between rGO and polymers for modified morphologies of rGO films leads to an enhanced performance of devices. In this work, a practical approach to engineer surface uniformity and enhance the performance of a photodetector by modifying the rGO film with hydrophilic polymers poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is reported. Compared with the rGO photodetector, the on/off ratio for the PVA/rGO photodetector shows 3.5 times improvement, and the detectivity shows 53% enhancement even when the photodetector is operated at a low bias of 0.3 V. This study provides an effective route to realize PVA/rGO photodetectors with a low‐power operation which shows promising opportunities for the future development of green systems.
Bioinspired Supramolecular Photonic Composites: Construction and Emerging Applications
Authors: Lyu Quanqian , Li Miaomiao , Zhang Lianbin , Zhu Jintao
Published: March 2022

Living organisms have evolved fascinating structural colors to survive in complex natural environments. Artificial photonic composites developed by imitating the structural colors of organisms are applied in displaying, sensing, biomedicine, and many other fields. As emerging materials, photonic composites mediated by supramolecular chemistry, namely, supramolecular photonic composites, are designed and constructed to meet emerging application needs and challenges. This review mainly introduces the constructive strategies, properties, and applications of supramolecular photonic composites. First, constructive strategies of supramolecular photonic composites are summarized, including the introduction of supramolecular polymers into colloidal photonic array templates, coassembly of colloidal particles (CPs) with supramolecular polymers, self‐assembly of soft CPs, and compounding photonic elastomers with functional substances via supramolecular interactions. Supramolecular interactions endow photonic composites with attractive properties, such as stimuli‐responsiveness and healability. Subsequently, the unique optical and mechanical properties of supramolecular photonic composites are summarized, and their applications in emerging fields, such as colorful coatings, real‐time and visual motion monitoring, and biochemical sensors, are introduced. Finally, challenges and perspectives in supramolecular photonic composites are discussed. This article provides general strategies and considerations for the design of photonic materials based on supramolecular chemistry.
Electrospun Azo‐Cellulose Fabric: A Smart Polysaccharidic Photo‐Actuator
Authors: Ahmadi‐Nohadani Hamed , Nono‐Tagne Steve , Barrett Christopher J. , Otsuka Issei
Published: March 2022

A natural polysaccharide‐based smart photo‐actuator is fabricated via electrospinning of cellulose 4‐phenyl azobenzoate (Azo‐Cel) from its organic solution in a mixture of high‐volatile acetone, a poor solvent of Azo‐Cel, and low‐volatile N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMAc), a good solvent of Azo‐Cel. At an optimal polymer concentration (17 wt%) and solvent mixing ratio (acetone/DMAc = 3/2 (v/v)), stable electrified polymer jets are formed and continuous nanofibers and their nonwoven fabric can be drawn on a cylinder‐shaped rotating drum electrode under a high electric field (25 kV). Scanning electron microscopic observation of the Azo‐Cel fabric confirms that the fabric consists of uniaxially aligned nanofibers with a mean diameter of 207 nm. The water contact angle of the Azo‐Cel fabric reversibly decreases and increases in response to alternate irradiation with UV and visible light to induce geometric deformation of the azobenzene moiety between the trans and cis isomers, which lead to lower and higher surface free energies, respectively. In addition, self‐standing Azo‐Cel fabric exhibits a UV‐driven photo‐mechanical asymmetric bending deformation toward the light source.
Union Organizing in 2022: The Government's Blueprint
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: March 2022

When then Presidential Candidate Biden was running for office, a major promise made to his supporters was to bolster the strength of labor organizations in the United States. As president, Biden has often doubled down on that promise and recently commented “I intend to be the most pro‐union president leading the most pro‐union administration in American history.” The promise was a particularly tall and bold order, placing himself above President Franklin Roosevelt who, among other things, signed into law the National Labor Relations Act.
Trained immunity: A Yin‐Yang balance
Authors: Hu Zhidong , Lu Shui‐Hua , Lowrie Douglas B. , Fan Xiao‐Yong
Published: March 2022

Traditionally, immune memory is regarded as an exclusive hallmark of adaptive immunity. However, a growing body of evidence suggesting that innate immune cells show adaptive characteristics has challenged this dogma. In the past decade, trained immunity, a de facto innate immune memory, has been defined as a long‐term functional reprogramming of cells of the innate immune system: the reprogramming is evoked by endogenous or exogenous insults, the cells return to a nonactivated state and subsequently show altered inflammatory responses against a second challenge. Trained immunity became regarded as a mechanism selected in evolution to protect against infection; however, a maladaptive effect might result in hyperinflammation. This dual effect is consistent with the Yin‐Yang theory in traditional Chinese philosophy, in which Yang represents active, positive, and aggressive factors, whereas Yin represents passive, negative, and inhibitory factors. In this review, we give a brief overview of history and latest progress about trained immunity, including experimental models, inductors, molecular mechanisms, clinical application and so on. Moreover, this is the first time to put forward the theory of Yin‐Yang balance to understand trained immunity. We envision that more efforts will be focused on developing novel immunotherapies targeting trained immunity in the coming years.
Whither the hidden returns to control: A short research paper
Authors: Liu Jing , Meder Anthony , Schwartz Steven T. , Young Richard A.
Published: March 2022

The term “hidden returns to control” (HRTC) refers to a phenomenon in which agents display more prosocial behavior when principals refrain from using available controls than when controls are unavailable. However, while HRTC has been observed in some experiments, it has not been reliably replicated. Two experiments are designed to test the existence of HRTC. The experiments use simplified designs and within‐participant measurements to reduce noise. The first experiment is a trust game; the second is a gift‐exchange game. We find clear evidence of HRTC in both experiments and validate with a post‐experiment questionnaire.
Longitudinal manganese‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of neural projections and activity
Authors: Uselman Taylor W. , Medina Christopher S. , Gray Harry B. , Jacobs Russell E. , Bearer Elaine L.
Published: March 2022

Manganese‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) holds exceptional promise for preclinical studies of brain‐wide physiology in awake‐behaving animals. The objectives of this review are to update the current information regarding MEMRI and to inform new investigators as to its potential. Mn(II) is a powerful contrast agent for two main reasons: (1) high signal intensity at low doses; and (2) biological interactions, such as projection tracing and neural activity mapping via entry into electrically active neurons in the living brain. High‐spin Mn(II) reduces the relaxation time of water protons: at Mn(II) concentrations typically encountered in MEMRI, robust hyperintensity is obtained without adverse effects. By selectively entering neurons through voltage‐gated calcium channels, Mn(II) highlights active neurons. Safe doses may be repeated over weeks to allow for longitudinal imaging of brain‐wide dynamics in the same individual across time. When delivered by stereotactic intracerebral injection, Mn(II) enters active neurons at the injection site and then travels inside axons for long distances, tracing neuronal projection anatomy. Rates of axonal transport within the brain were measured for the first time in “time‐lapse” MEMRI. When delivered systemically, Mn(II) enters active neurons throughout the brain via voltage‐sensitive calcium channels and clears slowly. Thus behavior can be monitored during Mn(II) uptake and hyperintense signals due to Mn(II) uptake captured retrospectively, allowing pairing of behavior with neural activity maps for the first time. Here we review critical information gained from MEMRI projection mapping about human neuropsychological disorders. We then discuss results from neural activity mapping from systemic Mn(II) imaged longitudinally that have illuminated development of the tonotopic map in the inferior colliculus as well as brain‐wide responses to acute threat and how it evolves over time. MEMRI posed specific challenges for image data analysis that have recently been transcended. We predict a bright future for longitudinal MEMRI in pursuit of solutions to the brain‐behavior mystery.
Nutrition implications of intrinsic restrictive lung disease
Authors: Rinaldi Sylvia , Balsillie Christine , Truchon Cassandra , AL‐Mubarak Awatif , Mura Marco , Madill Janet
Published: March 2022

Restrictive lung disease is defined as a reduction in lung volume that may be due to intraparenchymal or extraparenchymal causes. Intraparenchymal causes falls under the umbrella term of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and includes idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. This manuscript provides an overview of ILD and can be beneficial for all clinicians working with patients with ILD. Although not well documented, the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with ILD has been reported to be between ~9% and 55%. Body mass index has been shown to predict survival; but more recently, research has suggested that fat‐free mass has a larger influence on survival. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of antioxidant or vitamin supplementation to help diminish the chronic inflammatory process that is seen in this patient population. There are data from studies examining the vitamin D status in this patient population, but research on vitamin D supplementation appears to be lacking. Registered dietitian nutritionists should continue to advocate and play a more prominent role in the nutrition management of patients with ILD as part of standard of care.
Cooperative inversion of multiphysics data using joint minimum entropy constraints
Authors: Zhdanov Michael S. , Tu Xiaolei , Čuma Martin
Published: March 2022

The inversion of geophysical data is a classical ill‐posed problem that is complicated by considerable uncertainty and ambiguity in the resulting inverse models. One way to reduce this uncertainty is based on the cooperative inversion of multiphysics data. In most cases, the information provided by different geophysical data is mutually complementary, making it natural to consider a cooperative (joint) inversion of different geophysical data to a shared earth model. Many existing joint inversion methods are based on the known relationships between the different physical properties of the rocks. This paper introduces a new approach to cooperative geophysical inversion, which does not require a priori knowledge about specific empirical or statistical relationships between the different models' parameters. Our approach is based on a novel joint minimum entropy stabilizer, which forces the simplest multiphysics solution that fits the multimodal data. This novel stabilizer characterizes the degree of joint disorder or uncertainty in the distribution of the different model parameters. By minimizing this stabilizing functional in the framework of the regularized inversion, we produce a consistent image of the same geological structure expressed in different geophysical data. We implement a joint minimum entropy stabilizer in the context of re‐weighted regularized conjugate gradient inversion. The paper demonstrates the developed method using a synthetic model study and by joint inversion of airborne gravity and magnetic data collected in the McFaulds Lake area of Ontario, Canada.
The microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor lomitapide improves vascular function in mice with obesity
Authors: Munkhsaikhan Undral , Kwon Youngin , Sahyoun Amal M. , Ait‐Aissa Karima , Kassan Adam , Kassan Modar
Published: March 2022

Objective

In this study, the effect of lomitapide, a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor, on the cardiovascular function in obesity was investigated.

Methods

Eight‐week‐old C57BL/6 mice were fed with high‐fat diet for 12 weeks in the presence and absence of lomitapide. Lomitapide was administered by gavage (1 mg/kg/d) during the last 2 weeks of high‐fat feeding. Body weight, blood glucose, body composition, and lipid profile were determined. Vascular function and endothelial function markers were studied in the aorta and mesenteric resistance arteries.

Results

Lomitapide treatment reduced body weight in mice with obesity. Blood glucose, percentage of fat mass, total cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein levels were significantly reduced, and the percentage of lean mass was significantly increased after lomitapide treatment. The vascular response to sodium nitroprusside in the aorta and mesenteric arteries was similar among groups. However, the vascular response to acetylcholine was improved in the treated group. This was associated with decreased levels of vascular endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

Conclusions

Treatment with lomitapide attenuated the increase in body weight in mice with obesity and restored the lipid profile and vascular function. These effects were accompanied by a decrease in inflammation and oxidative stress.
Cutaneous mosaic RASopathies associated with rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Davies Olivia M. T. , Bruckner Anna L. , McCalmont Timothy , Mascarenhas Leo , Oza Vikash , Williams Mary L. , Wine‐Lee Lara , Shern Jack F. , Siegel Dawn H.
Published: March 2022

Variants in RAS are known drivers of certain pediatric blood and solid cancers, including brain tumors. Though most RAS‐driven cancers are thought to occur sporadically, genetic syndromes caused by germline RAS variants portend a slightly higher risk of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) development. Three new cases and a review of the literature demonstrate that in rare cases, certain somatic RAS variants are associated with an increased risk of RMS and that RMS development may be heralded by the presence of concomitant RAS‐driven birthmarks. Further prospective studies are needed to establish incidence and recommend appropriate monitoring guidelines for patients at risk.
Alobar holoprosencephaly: Exploring mothers' perspectives on prenatal decision‐making and prognostication
Authors: Elfarawi Hunaydah , Tolusso Leandra , McGowan Michelle L. , Cortezzo DonnaMaria , Vawter‐Lee Marissa
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Parents receiving a prenatal diagnosis of alobar holoprosencephaly (HPE) often experience uncertainty regarding the pregnancy prognosis. There is little known about how best to counsel and support families receiving the diagnosis. This study explored parental experiences and wishes after receiving a prenatal diagnosis of alobar HPE.

Methods

This was a retrospective qualitative study. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted to determine factors impacting parents' decision‐making process, experiences with healthcare providers, and expectations for their child's length and quality of life. Interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Eight mothers who received a prenatal diagnosis of alobar HPE between 2013 and 2019 participated in the study. Parental expectations were based on information conveyed during prenatal counseling. Religious and personal beliefs, perceived suffering, and provider prognostication contributed to parent decisions and goals of care. Participants reported pressure to terminate the pregnancy. Parents were not prepared for the possibility of survival beyond the perinatal period. Most parents reported no regret in their choices.

Conclusion

Patients receiving a prenatal diagnosis of alobar HPE desire access to balanced prenatal counseling about prognosis, morbidity, and mortality. Providers should explore values and beliefs that contribute to parents' goals of care and offer appropriate information and referrals.
Antimicrobial peptides–antibiotics combination: An effective strategy targeting drug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria
Authors: Zhang Fangyan , Zhong Chao , Yao Jia , Zhang Jingying , Zhang Tianyue , Li Beibei , Gou Sanhu , Ni Jingman
Published: March 2022

To address the growing resistance of Gram‐negative bacteria and enhance the clinical application potential of antimicrobial peptides. In this study, we combined two α‐helical antimicrobial peptides K4 (WRKWRKWRKWRK‐NH2) or K5 (WRKWRKWRKWRKWRK‐NH2) with four traditional antibiotics (gentamicin, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, and imipenem). Then we explored their potential and mechanism in inhibiting the generation of bacterial resistance. After adding K4 or K5, the tendency to produce resistant bacteria from traditional antibiotics declined significantly. And the obtained antibiotics‐resistant bacteria were further re‐sensitive to their corresponding traditional antibiotics with the addition of K4 or K5. Mostly, the combination showed synergistic or additive antibacterial effects on both the standard strains and the obtained antibiotics‐resistant bacteria, with a much better effect on the latter. Chemical sensitization and the outer membrane permeability experiments demonstrated that K4 and K5 may influence the drug efflux of the tested bacteria, while at the same time improving the outer membrane permeability of the obtained antibiotics‐resistant bacteria to traditional antibiotics by acting as a film breaker. They ultimately eliminated the generation of drug resistance. These results provided an effort that could break Gram‐negative bacteria's resistance.
One‐pot orthogonal thiol‐ene click polymerization and ring‐opening grafting reaction of CO2‐based disubstituted δ‐valerolactone
Authors: Song Jiawen , Chen Kaihao , Feng Yuanhao , Ni Xufeng , Ling Jun
Published: March 2022

Being a disubstituted δ‐valerolactone synthesized by the telomerization of carbon dioxide with 1,3‐butadiene, 3‐ethylidene‐6‐vinyltetrahydro‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one (EVL) contains a six‐membered ring and two unsaturated groups. This report describes the synthesis of an amphiphilic graft copolymer by the combination of thiol‐ene click polymerization and ring‐opening grafting reaction of EVL, ethyldithiol (EDT), and methoxy polyethylene glycol (mPEG‐OH). The alternating copolymer of P(EVL‐alt‐EDT) with 17.9 wt% CO2 content and weight‐average molecular weight (Mw) of 7 kg/mol was prepared by means of the free radical thiol‐ene click polymerization of EVL with EDT initiated by 2,2‐dimethoxy‐1,2‐diphenylethanone under UV irradiation. The following alcoholysis of the lactone ring of P(EVL‐alt‐EDT) backbone by mPEG‐OH is catalyzed by 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene, producing the amphiphilic graft copolymer P(EVL‐alt‐EDT)‐g‐PEG750 with Mw of 12 kg/mol. The polymers are characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared, matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectra, size exclusion chromatography and differential scanning calorimetry. The one‐pot orthogonal strategy is a new utilization of EVL in synthetic polymers and it is significant to the carbon dioxide transformation.
Multifunctional fibrous wound dressings for refractory wound healing
Authors: Gao Yujie , Qiu Zhiye , Liu Lei , Li Mengmeng , Xu Bingjie , Yu Dan , Qi Dongming , Wu Jindan
Published: March 2022

Refractory wounds have always been an important issue to healthcare systems, whose healing process is always delayed by multiple factors, including bacterial infections, chronic inflammation, and excessive exudates, etc. Employing multifunctional wound dressings is recognized as an effective strategy to deal with refractory wounds, which has yielded promising outcomes in recent years. Among these advanced wound dressings, fibrous dressings have gained growing attention due to their unique merits. Such wound dressings have demonstrated great potential in delivering theranostic agents, such as antibacterial agents, anti‐inflammatory drugs, growth factors, and diagnostic probes, etc., for the purposes of accelerating wound healing. This paper reviews the development of multifunctional fibrous dressings and their applications in treating refractory wounds. The construction approaches of novel fibrous dressing with capabilities of antibacterial, anti‐inflammation, exudate management and diagnosis were also introduced. Furthermore, the existing problems and challenges are also discussed briefly.
Comparison of outcomes of different biopsy schedules among men on active surveillance for prostate cancer: An analysis of the G.A.P.3 global consortium database
Authors: Beckmann Kerri R. , Bangma Chris H. , Helleman Jozien , Bjartell Anders , Carroll Peter R. , Morgan Todd , Nieboer Daan , Santaolalla Aida , Trock Bruce J. , Valdagni Riccardo , Roobol Monique J. ,   For the Global Action Plan Active Surveillance Prostate Cancer [G.A.P.3] Consortium
Published: March 2022

Background

The optimal interval for repeat biopsy during active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer is yet to be defined. This study examined whether risk of upgrading (to grade group ≥ 2) or risk of converting to treatment varied according to intensity of repeat biopsy using data from the GAP3 consortium's global AS database.

Materials and Methods

Intensity of surveillance biopsy schedules was categorized according to centers’ protocols: (a) Prostate Cancer Research International Active Surveillance project (PRIAS) protocols with biopsies at years 1, 4, and 7 (10 centers; 7532 men); (b) biennial biopsies, that is, every other year (8 centers; 4365 men); and (c) annual biopsy schedules (4 centers; 1602 men). Multivariable Cox regression was used to compare outcomes according to biopsy intensity.

Results

Out of the 13,508 eligible participants, 56% were managed according to PRIAS protocols (biopsies at years 1, 4, and 7), 32% via biennial biopsy, and 12% via annual biopsy. After adjusting for baseline characteristics, risk of converting to treatment was greater for those on annual compared with PRIAS biopsy schedules (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.51–1.83; p < 0.001), while risk of upgrading did not differ (HR = 0.96; 95% CI = 0.84–1.10).

Conclusion

Results suggest more frequent biopsy schedules may deter some men from continuing AS despite no evidence of grade progression.
Quality of life after robotic‐assisted and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Results of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (LAP‐01)
Authors: Holze Sigrun , Lemaire Emilie , Mende Meinhard , Neuhaus Petra , Arthanareeswaran Vinodh‐Kumar‐Adithyaa , Truss Michael C. , Minh Do Hoang , Dietel Anja , Teber Dogu , Stützel Karin D. , Hohenfellner Markus , Rabenalt Robert , Albers Peter , Stolzenburg Jens‐Uwe
Published: March 2022

Background

To explore cross‐sectional and longitudinal differences in general health‐related and prostate cancer‐specific quality of life (QoL) after robotic‐assisted (RARP) and laparoscopic (LRP) radical prostatectomy and to analyze predictive variables for QoL outcomes.

Methods

In this multicenter, randomized controlled trial, prostate cancer patients were randomly assigned 3:1 to undergo either RARP or LRP. Patient‐reported outcomes were prospectively collected before and 1, 3, 6, 12 months after radical prostatectomy and included QoL as a secondary outcome. Validated questionnaires were used to assess general health‐related (EORTC QLQ‐C30) and prostate cancer‐specific (QLQ‐PR25) QoL. Cross‐sectional and longitudinal contrasts were analyzed through linear mixed models. Predictive variables for QoL outcomes were identified by general linear modeling.

Results

Of 782 randomized patients, QoL was evaluable in 681 patients. In terms of general QoL, the cross‐sectional analysis showed only small differences between study arms, whereas longitudinal comparison indicated an advantage of RARP on recovery: RARP patients reported an earlier return to baseline in global health status (3 vs. 6 months) and social functioning (6 vs. 12 months). In role functioning, only the RARP arm regained baseline scores. Regarding prostate‐specific QoL, LRP patients experienced more urinary symptoms and reported 3.2 points (95% confidence interval 0.4–6, p = 0.024) higher mean scores at 1‐month follow‐up and in mean 2.9 points (0.1–5, p = 0.042) higher urinary symptoms scores at 3‐month follow‐up than RARP patients. There were no other significant differences between treatment groups. Urinary symptoms, sexual activity, and sexual function remained significantly worse compared with baseline at all time points in both arms.

Conclusions

Compared with LRP, the robotic approach led to an earlier return to baseline in several domains of general health‐related QoL and better short‐term recovery of urinary symptoms. Predictive variables such as the scale‐specific baseline status and bilateral nerve‐sparing were confirmed.
Immune mechanisms behind prostate cancer in men of African ancestry: A review
Authors: Sentana‐Lledo Daniel , Sartor Oliver , Balk Steven P. , Einstein David J.
Published: March 2022

Background

Men of African ancestry (AA) with prostate cancer suffer from worse outcomes. However, a recent analysis of patients treated with the dendritic cell vaccine sipuleucel‐T for prostate cancer suggested that AA patients could have improved outcomes relative to whites.

Methods

We conducted a focused literature review of Medline‐indexed articles and clinical trials listed on clinicaltrials.gov.

Results

We identify several studies pointing to enrichment of inflammatory cellular infiltrates and cytokine signaling among AA patients with prostate cancer. We outline potential genomic and transcriptomic alterations that may contribute to immunogenicity. Last, we investigate differences in host immunity and vaccine responsiveness that may be enhanced in AA patients.

Conclusions

AA patients with prostate cancer may be enriched for an immunogenic phenotype. Dedicated studies are needed to better understand the immune mechanisms that contribute to existing cancer disparities and test immune‐based therapies in this population.
Structural and functional analysis of the human cone‐rod homeobox transcription factor
Authors: Clanor Penelope‐Marie B. , Buchholz Christine N. , Hayes Jonathan E. , Friedman Michael A. , White Andrew M. , Enke Ray A. , Berndsen Christopher E.
Published: March 2022

The cone‐rod homeobox (CRX) protein is a critical K50 homeodomain transcription factor responsible for the differentiation and maintenance of photoreceptor neurons in the vertebrate retina. Mutant alleles in the human gene encoding CRX result in a variety of distinct blinding retinopathies, including retinitis pigmentosa, cone‐rod dystrophy, and Leber congenital amaurosis. Despite the success of using in vitro biochemistry, animal models, and genomics approaches to study this clinically relevant transcription factor over the past 25 years since its initial characterization, there are no high‐resolution structures in the published literature for the CRX protein. In this study, we use bioinformatic approaches and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) structural analysis to further understand the biochemical complexity of the human CRX homeodomain (CRX‐HD). We find that the CRX‐HD is a compact, globular monomer in solution that can specifically bind functional cis‐regulatory elements encoded upstream of retina‐specific genes. This study presents the first structural analysis of CRX, paving the way for a new approach to studying the biochemistry of this protein and its disease‐causing mutant protein variants.
Inadequacy of the Fitted Crystal‐Field Parameterizations. Case Study: The Fourth‐Order Crystal‐Field Splitting Moment in Cubic Systems
Authors: Mulak Maciej , Mulak Jacek
Published: March 2022

To facilitate the calculation of the fourth‐order crystal‐field (CF) splitting moment, which in a complex way depends on the split state , a time saving formula is elaborated, which is positively verified for several cubic systems RE3+: Cs2NaLaCl6. The appropriate crystal‐field parameters (CFPs) have to be substituted to the presented formula. However, the question is which ones. The clear answer proven in the paper is that single‐state CFPs should necessarily be used. To test the approach, a few cubic systems, for which such single‐state CFPs are available, have been studied. Conventionally fitted CFPs, averaged over the entire electron configuration, do not satisfy the equation, which contradicts the fundamental principle of the CF theory. Such verification significantly limits the physical meaning and applicability of the conventional fitted parameterizations.
Building constituencies for flood risk management: Critical insights from a flood defences dispute in Ireland
Authors: Jeffers James M.
Published: March 2022

Stakeholder consultation and participation are often viewed as an essential component of hazards governance and disaster risk reduction. However, an extensive literature in the fields of hazards management, disaster risk reduction, planning, and environmental governance has highlighted numerous challenges that have constrained attempts to increase participation in decision‐making. Some scholars have called for transformative alternative approaches based on engaging broader constituencies of interest or on refocusing decision‐making from knowledge transfer to relationship building. This paper contrasts consultative and constituency building models of hazards governance through an examination of a disputed flood relief scheme in Cork, Ireland. Despite extensive stakeholder consultation, the proposed Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme has been the subject of an ongoing dispute between local groups supporting and opposing its implementation. This dispute has prompted a range of interested parties to become involved in debating flood risk management options for Cork City. This has increased both the number of people engaging with issues related to flood risk management and the basis on which they have done so. The ways in which these wider constituencies of interest have emerged highlight important challenges and opportunities for flood risk management, as well as for hazards governance more generally.
Rigorously interpreted quotation analysis for evaluating causal loop diagrams in late‐stage conceptualization
Authors: Tomoaia‐Cotisel Andrada , Allen Samuel D. , Kim Hyunjung , Andersen David , Chalabi Zaid
Published: March 2022

As a field, system dynamics has made more progress in developing formal model evaluation methods that use quantitative data than ones that use qualitative data. This article describes a formal method for evaluating a causal loop diagram (CLD) in late‐stage conceptualization – referred to as rigorously interpreted quotation analysis – and illustrates its application in a case study. The method uses a systematic and explicit interpretive process to confirm or disconfirm all diagram elements in a CLD by comparing it to stakeholders’ verbatim descriptions of their experiences in a complex dynamic situation. In so doing, this method enables the resolution of discrepancies between a CLD and qualitative data, building confidence in the structural aspects of a dynamic hypothesis. It does so via a process that is approachable for experts and stakeholders alike. © 2022 System Dynamics Society.
Model‐assisted analyses of longitudinal, ordinal outcomes with absorbing states
Authors: Schildcrout Jonathan S. , Harrell Frank E. , Heagerty Patrick J. , Haneuse Sebastien , Di Gravio Chiara , Garbett Shawn P. , Rathouz Paul J. , Shepherd Bryan E.
Published: March 2022

Studies of critically ill, hospitalized patients often follow participants and characterize daily health status using an ordinal outcome variable. Statistically, longitudinal proportional odds models are a natural choice in these settings since such models can parsimoniously summarize differences across patient groups and over time. However, when one or more of the outcome states is absorbing, the proportional odds assumption for the follow‐up time parameter will likely be violated, and more flexible longitudinal models are needed. Motivated by the VIOLET Study (Ginde et al), a parallel‐arm, randomized clinical trial of Vitamin in critically ill patients, we discuss and contrast several treatment effect estimands based on time‐dependent odds ratio parameters, and we detail contemporary modeling approaches. In VIOLET, the outcome is a four‐level ordinal variable where the lowest ”not alive” state is absorbing and the highest ”at‐home” state is nearly absorbing. We discuss flexible extensions of the proportional odds model for longitudinal data that can be used for either model‐based inference, where the odds ratio estimator is taken directly from the model fit, or for model‐assisted inferences, where heterogeneity across cumulative log odds dichotomizations is modeled and results are summarized to obtain an overall odds ratio estimator. We focus on direct estimation of cumulative probability model (CPM) parameters using likelihood‐based analysis procedures that naturally handle absorbing states. We illustrate the modeling procedures, the relative precision of model‐based and model‐assisted estimators, and the possible differences in the values for which the estimators are consistent through simulations and analysis of the VIOLET Study data.
Making Ultra‐Tough Nanoceramics by Columnar Submicrocrystals with Three‐Level Micro‐Nano Structures
Authors: Yu Yongdong , Zheng Yongting , Liu Xudong , Yuan Yuchen , He Xiaodong
Published: March 2022

The low fracture toughness of equiaxed nanocrystalline ceramics is the main bottleneck of its wide range of commercial applications. Here, the authors report a method to overcome this limitation for preparing ultra‐tough nanoceramics from using amorphous and supersaturated Al2O3/ZrO2solid solution micro‐powders, which is fabricated by Al–O2ultrahigh‐temperature combustion synthesis assisted rapid water cooling. The Al2O3/ZrO2micro‐powders containing amorphous and metastable dendritic solid solutions can induce the three‐level micro‐nano structure (submicro/nano/supra‐nano) of the high‐content (up to 70–90%) columnar submicro‐crystals accompanied with high‐density nanoprecipitation after sintering or annealing, which makes the fracture toughness of Al2O3/ZrO2ceramics with a unique combination of high‐strength and high‐hardness increased by 50–100%. This method is beneficial to microstructural design of high‐performance ceramics and can be widely applied to various ceramic systems, coupled with simplicity, low‐cost, and high‐efficiency, making it suitable to industrially produce large‐sized nanoceramics with specific grain geometry in large quantities.
Real‐Time Capturing of Microscale Events Controlling the Sintering of Lead‐Free Piezoelectric Potassium‐Sodium Niobate
Authors: Bah Micka , Podor Renaud , Retoux Richard , Delorme Fabian , Nadaud Kevin , Giovannelli Fabien , Monot‐Laffez Isabelle , Ayral André
Published: March 2022

Sintering is a very important process in materials science and technological applications. Despite breakthroughs in achieving optimized piezoelectric properties, fundamentals of K0.5Na0.5NbO3 (KNN) sintering are not yet fully understood, facing densification versus grain growth competition. At present, microscale events during KNN sintering under reducing atmospheres are real‐time monitored using a High Temperature‐Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope. A two contacting KNN particles model satisfying the Kingery and Berg's bulk diffusion model is reported. Dynamic events like individual grain growth and grain elimination process are explored through a postanalysis of recorded image series. The diffusion coefficient for oxygen vacancies of 10−8 cm2 s−1 and average boundary mobility of 10−9 cm4 J−1 s−1 are reported for the KNN ceramics. Moreover, the local pore shrinkage is consistent with the Kingery and François's concept of pore stability except that pore curvatures are not all concave, convex or flat due to anisotropic grain‐boundary energies. The global grain growth kinetics are described using parabolic and/or cubic laws. The effect of atmospheres and microstructure evolution on the intrinsic and extrinsic contributions to the dielectric response using Rayleigh's law is also explored. These results bring a new breath for KNN sintering studies in order to adapt the sintering process.
Temperature‐Controlled Selectivity of Hydrogenation and Hydrodeoxygenation of Biomass by Superhydrophilic Nitrogen/Oxygen Co‐Doped Porous Carbon Nanosphere Supported Pd Nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Haitao , Xu Yang , Havener Kaden , Zhang Meng , Zhang Li , Wu Wenjin , Huang Kun
Published: March 2022

Selective hydrogenation and hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of biomass to value‐added products play a crucial role in the development of renewable energy resources. However, achieving a temperature‐controlled selectivity within one catalytic system while retaining excellent hydrogenation and HDO performance remains a great challenge. Here, nitrogen/oxygen (N/O) co‐doped porous carbon nanosphere derived from resin polymer spheres is synthesized as the host matrix to in situ encapsulate highly dispersed Pd nanoparticles (NPs). Through N/O co‐doping, the defects on the surface of carbon structure can serve as active sites to promote substrate adsorption. After a facile H2O2 post‐treatment process, the presence of abundant carboxyl groups on the porous carbon nanospheres can act as acidic sites to replace the use of acidic additives in the HDO process. Additionally, the increased surface oxygen‐containing groups improve hydrophilicity to disperse catalysts in aqueous solutions. Owing to the unique highly dispersed Pd NPs and abundant surface defects, the Pd@APF‐H2O2 (2.3 nm) catalysts exhibit excellent catalytic activity and temperature‐controlled selectivity for hydrogenation and HDO products of biomass‐derived vanillin.
Achieving Excellent Strength‐Ductility Balance and Lower Yield Ratio in a 690 MPa‐Grade Multiphase Construction Steel
Authors: Zhu Wenting , Cui Junjun , Feng Yang , Chen Zhenye , Zhao Yang , Chen Liqing
Published: March 2022

In this article, thermomechanical controlled processing (TMCP) plus tempering (T) is adopted to acquire a novel 690 MPa‐grade high‐strength low‐carbon bainitic construction structural steel, which has an optimum balance of strength‐ductility and lower yield ratio (YR). The results show that the as‐rolled steel consists of bainitic ferrite, lath‐like bainite, and granular bainite. With an increase in the tempering temperature, a great deal of carbonitrides precipitates and maintains a small nano‐scaled size without coarsening. Their interaction with dislocations induces an increase in strength. When the tempering temperature further increases, some grain boundaries between adjacent bainitic laths gradually blur or even disappear, and the average width of the bainitic laths increases to ≈860 nm. The recovery of bainitic laths is the main reason for the decreased strength. Due to the synergistic effect of the small dot‐shaped martensite/austenite (M/A) constituents and grain boundaries misorientation distribution, maximum impact absorbed energy is achieved after tempered at 500 °C. Furthermore, the lower YR is achieved by appropriate control of strength difference between the soft bainitic ferrite and hard M/A constituents via tempering.
Effects of Endogenous Polyphenols in Acorn (Quercus wutaishanica Blume) Kernels on the Physicochemical Properties of Starch
Authors: Liu Mengyu , Yang Qinxue , Wu Yanwen , Ouyang Jie
Published: March 2022

The effects of endogenous polyphenols in acorn kernels on granule morphology, crystal properties, and in vitro digestibility of starch are investigated. The granule surface smoothness, relative crystallinity, short‐range molecular order, and starch hydrolysis rate increase after the removal of polyphenols from acorn flour. With the addition of polyphenol extracts, the hydrolysis rates of acorn, corn, potato, and chestnut starches are all reduced, and the free‐polyphenol extract shows higher inhibitory activity than the bound‐polyphenol extract. These results are expected to be helpful for understanding the low digestibility of starch in acorn kernels, which is attributed to the inhibitory effects of polyphenols on the activities of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, but not the increase of long and short‐range molecular orders of starch.
A Review on Biodegradable Packaging Films from Vegetative and Food Waste
Authors: Gupta Prashant , Toksha Bhagwan , Rahaman Mostafizur
Published: March 2022

Plastics around the globe have been a matter of grave concern due to the unavoidable habits of human mankind. Taking waste statistics in India for the year 2019–20 into account, the data of 60 major cities show that the generation of plastic waste stands tall at around 26,000 tonnes/day, of which only about 60 % is recycled. A majority of the non‐recycled plastic waste is petrochemical‐based packaging materials that are non‐biodegradable in nature. Vegetative/food waste is another global issue, evidenced by vastly populated countries such as China and India accounting for 91 and 69 tonnes of food wastage, respectively in 2019. The mitigation of plastic packaging issues has led to key scientific developments, one of which is biodegradable materials. However, there is a way that these two waste‐related issues can be fronted as the analogy of “taking two shots with the same arrow”. The presence of various bio‐compounds such as proteins, cellulose, starch, lipids, and waxes, etc., in food and vegetative waste, creates an opportunity for the development of biodegradable packaging films. Although these flexible packaging films have limitations in terms of mechanical, permeation, and moisture absorption characteristics, they can be fine‐tuned in order to convert the biobased raw material into a realizable packaging product. These strategies could work in replacing petrochemical‐based non‐biodegradable packaging plastics which are used in enormous quantities for various household and commercial packaging applications to combat the ever‐increasing pollution in highly populated countries. This paper presents a systematic review based on modern scientific tools of the literature available with a major emphasis on the past decade and aims to serve as a standard resource for the development of biodegradable packaging films from food/vegetative waste.
Online Voltage Control of DC Microgrids with Different Loading Conditions Using Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Aboelsoud Hossam , Ikeda Naoya , Tsuji Takao , Hojo Masahide , Okada Naotaka
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a contemplate study on online voltage control strategy with different loading conditions in a DC microgrid using particle swarm optimization (PSO). DC microgrids consist of many converters and it is an important issue to stabilize network voltage by properly designing their controllers. Conventional feedback controls have been often used as a primary control for voltage stabilization with optimizing control parameters such as droop gains. Moreover, the optimal control parameters should be flexibly updated when the system condition dynamically changes so as to maintain high voltage control performance under sudden and unexpected changes in system conditions. In that context, this paper introduces an online voltage control using an advanced PSO technique to frequently update control gains. The primary control was modeled as a proportional‐derivative controller, and the optimization problem was defined based on the eigenvalue analysis. A parallel operation of local and global searches is conducted in the proposed method to search optimal control gains by allocating a part of particles to move in a random pattern. The validation of the proposed method was performed using a simplified 3‐bus DC microgrid model with two generator sets and two constant power loads. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.