bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alteration of Some Sperm Proteins, Anti-oxidants, and Prostate-specific Antigen in the Seminal Plasma of Bacteriospermic Infertile Males
Authors: Aworu Aminayanate M. , Elekima Ibioku , Chioma Adline Ben- , Brown Holy , Bartimaeus Ebirien-Agana S.
Published: June 2022

Aim: To investigate the alteration of some sperm proteins, anti-oxidants, and prostate-specific antigen in the seminal plasma of bacteriospermic infertile males.

Study Design:  The study is a case-control design to investigate the semen parameters and some sperm proteins in infertile males with bacteriospermia attending urology or fertility clinics in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. However, some of the Laboratory investigations were done in the Chemical Pathology Unit and Medical Microbiology Unit of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt. The Study was between the period of September 2019 and Feb. 2022.

Methodology: A total 193 subjects were recruited of which 76 were fertile without bacterial infection, 24 were fertile with bacterial infection, 37 infertile without bacterial infection and 56 infertile with bacterial infections. Infertile males were further classified as teratozoospermic, asthenoteratozoospermic, and oligoasthenoteratozoospermic. HSP70, PKA, MDA, TAC, and GPX (in seminal plasma), PSA, and testosterone (in serum) were analyzed using ELISA while TAC was done using spectrophotometric methods. Microbial culture was done to isolate and identify bacteria in semen. Results obtained were analyzed using GraphPad Prism and SPSS.

Results: Culture results indicated that 52% of normospermic subjects had no semen infection at the time of the investigation. On the other hand, infertile male subjects without semen infections had 18.7%, while infertile males with semen infections were seen to be 29.2%. Likewise, subjects with bacteriospermia as scanty growth had 12.5%, 9.3% moderate, and 7.3% heavy growth. Significantly higher values of HSP70, PKA, PSA, and MDA were seen in infertile males with bacteriospermia compared with control and infertile males without infection while significantly lower values were seen in TAC, GPX, OPN, and testosterone were observed in the infertile males with bacteriospermia compared with control and infertile males without infection.

Conclusion: Bacteriospermia significantly increased lipid peroxidation cum oxidative stress leading to altered physiological sperm proteins in the seminal plasma. These alterations could also be responsible for the poor sperm qualities observed in the infertile subjects.
Expediente
Authors: Afro-Ásia Editores
Published: June 2022

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Depression and Anxiety in Patients With Lichen Sclerosus
Authors: Fan Ryan , Leasure Audrey C. , Maisha Fahrisa I. , Little Alicia J. , Cohen Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2022

This case-control study uses data from the National Institutes of Health All of Us Research Program to investigate whether depression and anxiety are associated with lichen sclerosus among women.
Longitudinal evaluation of neurologic‐post acute sequelae SARS‐CoV‐2 infection symptoms
Authors: Shanley Jacqueline E. , Valenciano Andrew F. , Timmons Garrett , Miner Annalise E. , Kakarla Visesha , Rempe Torge , Yang Jennifer H. , Gooding Amanda , Norman Marc A. , Banks Sarah J. , Ritter Michelle L. , Ellis Ronald J. , Horton Lucy , Graves Jennifer S.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To assess the initial features and evolution of neurologic Postacute Sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (neuro‐PASC) in patients with and without prior neurologic disease.

Methods

Participants with neurologic symptoms following acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were recruited from October 9, 2020 to October 11, 2021. Clinical data included a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection history, neurologic review of systems, neurologic exam, Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA), and symptom‐based self‐reported surveys at baseline (conducted after acute infection) and 6‐month follow‐up assessments.

Results

Fifty‐six participants (69% female, mean age 50 years, 29% with prior neurologic disease such as multiple sclerosis) were enrolled, of which 27 had completed the 6‐month follow‐up visit in this ongoing study. SARS‐CoV‐2 infection severity was largely described as mild (39.3%) or moderate (42.9%). At baseline, following acute infection, the most common neurologic symptoms were fatigue (89.3%) and headaches (80.4%). At the 6‐month follow‐up, memory impairment (68.8%) and decreased concentration (61.5%) were the most prevalent, though on average all symptoms showed a reduction in reported severity score at the follow‐up. Complete symptom resolution was reported in 33.3% of participants by 6 months. From baseline to 6 months, average MoCA scores improved overall though 26.3% of participants’ scores decreased. A syndrome consisting of tremor, ataxia, and cognitive dysfunction (PASC‐TAC) was observed in 7.1% of patients.

Interpretation

Early in the neuro‐PASC syndrome, fatigue and headache are the most commonly reported symptoms. At 6 months, memory impairment and decreased concentration were most prominent. Only one‐third of participants had completed resolution of neuro‐PASC at 6 months, although persistent symptoms trended toward improvement at follow‐up.
Graphene‐Based Nucleants for Protein Crystallization
Authors: Govada Lata , Rubio Noelia , Saridakis Emmanuel , Balaskandan Kalpana , Leese Hannah S. , Li Yanmin , Wang Beijia , Shaffer Milo S. P. , Chayen Naomi
Published: June 2022

Protein crystallization remains a major bottleneck for the determination of high resolution structures. Nucleants can accelerate the process but should ideally be compatible with high throughput robotic screening. Polyethylene glycol grafted (PEGylated) graphenes can be stabilized in water providing dispensable, nucleant systems. Two graphitic feedstocks are exfoliated and functionalized with PEG using a non‐destructive, scalable, chemical reduction method, delivering good water dispersibility (80 and 750 µg mL−1 for large and small layers, respectively). The wide utility of these nucleants has been established across five proteins and three different screens, each of 96 conditions, demonstrating greater effectiveness of the dispersed PEGylated graphenes. Smaller numbers of larger, more crystalline flakes consistently act as better protein nucleants. The delivered nucleant concentration is optimized (0.1 mg mL−1 in the condition), and the performance benchmarked against existing state of the art, molecularly imprinted polymer nucleants. Strikingly, graphene nucleants are effective even when decreasing both the nucleant and protein concentration to unusually low concentrations. The set‐up to scale‐up nucleant production to liter volumes can provide sufficient material for wide implementation. Together with the optimized crystallization conditions, the results are a step forward toward practical synthesis of a readily accessible “universal” nucleant.
Grain‐Boundary‐Rich Noble Metal Nanoparticle Assemblies: Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity
Authors: Geng Xin , Li Shuwei , Heo Jaeyoung , Peng Yi , Hu Wenhui , Liu Yanchao , Huang Jier , Ren Yang , Li Dongsheng , Zhang Liang , Luo Long
Published: June 2022

Here, a comprehensive study on the synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of grain‐boundary (GB)‐rich noble metal nanoparticle (NP) assemblies is presented. A facile and scalable synthesis of Pt, Pd, Au, Ag, and Rh NP assemblies is developed, in which NPs are predominantly connected via Σ3 (111) twin GBs, forming a network. Driven by water electrolysis, the random collisions and oriented attachment of colloidal NPs in solution lead to the formation of Σ3 (111) twin boundaries and some highly mismatched GBs. This synthetic method also provides convenient control over the GB density without altering the crystallite size or GB type by varying the NP collision frequency. The structural characterization reveals the presence of localized tensile strain at the GB sites. The ultrahigh activity of GB‐rich Pt NP assembly toward catalytic hydrogen oxidation in air is demonstrated, enabling room‐temperature catalytic hydrogen sensing for the first time. Finally, density functional theory calculations reveal that the strained Σ3(111) twin boundary facilitates oxygen dissociation, drastically enhancing the hydrogen oxidation rate via the dissociative pathway. This reported large‐scale synthesis of the Σ3 (111) twin GB‐rich structures enables the development of a broad range of high‐performance GB‐rich catalysts.
Room‐Temperature Annealing‐Free Gold Printing via Anion‐Assisted Photochemical Deposition
Authors: Wu Dong , Yao Bowen , Wu Shuwang , Hingorani Hardik , Cui Qingyu , Hua Mutian , Frenkel Imri , Du Yingjie , Hsiai Tzung K. , He Ximin
Published: June 2022

Metal patterning via additive manufacturing has been phasing‐in to broad applications in many medical, electronics, aerospace, and automotive industries. While previous efforts have produced various promising metal‐patterning strategies, their complexity and high cost have limited their practical application in rapid production and prototyping. Herein, a one‐step gold printing technique based on anion‐assisted photochemical deposition (APD), which can directly print highly conductive gold patterns (1.08 × 107 S m−1) under ambient conditions without post‐annealing treatment, is introduced. Uniquely, the APD uses specific ion effects with projection lithography to pattern Au nanoparticles and simultaneously sinter them into tunable porous gold structures. The significant influence of kosmotropic or chaotropic anions in the precursor ink on tuning the morphologies and conductivities of the printed patterns by employing a series of different ions, including Cl− ions, in the printing process is presented. Additionally, the resistance stabilities and the electrochemical properties of the APD‐printed gold patterns are carefully investigated. The high conductivity and excellent conformability of the printed Au electrodes are demonstrated with reliable performance in electrophysiological signal delivery and acquisition for biomedical applications. This work exploits the potential of photochemical‐deposition‐based metal patterning in flexible electronic manufacturing.
Using Machine Learning to Predict and Understand Complex Self‐Assembly Behaviors of a Multicomponent Nanocomposite
Authors: Vargo Emma , Dahl Jakob C. , Evans Katherine M. , Khan Tasneem , Alivisatos Paul , Xu Ting
Published: June 2022

Blends of nanoparticles, polymers, and small molecules can self‐assemble into optical, magnetic, and electronic devices with structure‐dependent properties. However, the relationship between a multicomponent nanocomposite's formulation and its assembled structure is complex and cannot be predicted by theory. The blends can be strongly influenced by processing conditions, which can introduce non‐equilibrium states. Currently, nanocomposite devices are designed through cycles of experimental trial and error. Machine learning (ML) methods are a compelling alternative because they can use existing datasets to map high‐dimensional spaces. These methods do not rely on known relationships between parameters, so they are suited to complex systems without a solid theoretical foundation. Here, a dataset of 595 microscopy images of nanocomposite thin films is used to train a series of ML models. Correlations between the input and output parameters are examined, providing new insights into the system. Finally, the most successful ML model is used to predict the structures of new nanocomposite compositions. The results confirm that ML techniques can be used to improve the efficiency of nanocomposite device design. More broadly, the current study suggests some of the advantages and challenges associated with applying ML to complex systems.
Self‐Powered Stretchable Sensor Arrays Exhibiting Magnetoelasticity for Real‐Time Human–Machine Interaction
Authors: Zhang Tongtong , Ding Yi , Hu Chaosheng , Zhang Maoyi , Zhu Wenxuan , Bowen Chris R. , Han Yu , Yang Ya
Published: June 2022

Stretchable strain sensors are highly desirable for human motion monitoring, and can be used to build new forms of bionic robots. However, the current use of flexible strain gauges is hindered by the need for an external power supply, and the demand for long‐term operation. Here, a new flexible self‐powered strain sensor system based on an electromagnetic generator that possesses a high stretchability in excess of 150%, a short response time of 30 ms, and an excellent linearity (R2 > 0.98), is presented. Based on this new form of sensor, a human–machine interaction system is designed to achieve remote control of a robot hand and vehicle using a human hand, which provides a new scheme for real‐time gesture interaction.
Heteroatom Modification Enhances Corrosion Durability in High‐Mechanical‐Performance Graphene‐Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composites
Authors: Xie Yuming , Meng Xiangchen , Chang Yuexin , Mao Dongxin , Qin Zhiwei , Wan Long , Huang Yongxian
Published: June 2022

The antagonism between strength and corrosion resistance in graphene‐reinforced aluminum matrix composites is an inherent challenge to designing reliable structural components. Heteroatom microstructural modification is highly appreciated to conquer the obstacle. Here, a bottom‐up strategy to exploit the heterogeneous phase interface to enable high corrosion durability is proposed. Deformation‐driven metallurgy derived from severe plastic deformation is developed to produce Mg‐alloyed fluorinated graphene structures with homogeneous dispersion. These structures allow for absorbing corrosion products, forming a dense protective layer against corrosion, and local micro‐tuning of the suppression of charge transfer. This results in superior corrosion resistance with an outstanding strength‐ductility balance of the composites via ultrafine‐grained and precipitation strengthening. The anti‐corrosion polarization resistance remains 89% of the initial state after 2‐month immersion in chloride‐containing environment, while the ultra‐tensile strength and elongation of 532 ± 39 MPa and 17.3 ± 1.2% are obtained. The economical strategy of heteroatom modification broadens the horizon for anti‐corrosion engineering in aluminum matrix composites, which is critical for the design of carbonaceous nanomaterial‐reinforced composites to realize desired performances for practical applications.
Photo‐Electrochemical Conversion of CO2 Under Concentrated Sunlight Enables Combination of High Reaction Rate and Efficiency
Authors: Boutin Etienne , Patel Mahendra , Kecsenovity Egon , Suter Silvan , Janáky Csaba , Haussener Sophia
Published: June 2022

Photo‐electrochemical production of solar fuels from carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight is an appealing approach. Nevertheless, it remains challenging to scale despite encouraging demonstrations at low power input. Higher current densities require notable voltage input as ohmic losses and activation overpotentials become more significant, resulting in lower solar‐to‐CO conversion efficiencies. A concentrated photovoltaic cell is integrated into a custom‐made heat managed photo‐electrochemical device. The heat is transferred from the photovoltaic module to the zero‐gap electrolyzer cell by the stream of anodic reactant and produce synergetic effects on both sides. With solar concentrations up to 450 suns (i.e., 450 kW m−2) applied for the first time to photo‐electrochemical reduction of CO2, a partial current for CO production of 4 A is achieved. At optimal conditions, the solar‐to‐CO conversion efficiency reaches 17% while maintaining a current density of 150 mA cm−2 in the electrolyzer and a CO selectivity above 90%, representing an overall 19% solar‐to‐fuel conversion efficiency. This study represents a first demonstration of photo‐electrochemical CO2 reduction under highly concentrated light, paving the way for resource efficient solar fuel production at high power input.
Preventing households from food insecurity in rural Burkina Faso: Does nonfarm income matter?
Authors: Séogo Windinkonté
Published: June 2022

Engaging in nonfarm activities has been considered an important strategy to increase household income in rural Burkina Faso. However, the empirical evidence on how income from nonfarm activities contributes to household food security in the country is limited. Relying on nationwide household panel data and an instrumental variable approach, this study shows that income from nonfarm activities positively affects household food stability and overall food expenditure. The share of food expenditure is also found to be negatively associated with income from nonfarm activities, suggesting an improvement in households' economic status. This evidence has crucial policy implications for food security in rural Burkina Faso, where households face severe income shocks due to both climatic variability and poor investments in agriculture. [EconLit Citations: O13, O55, Q12, Q18].
Mentoring and depressive symptoms of youth: Examining prospective and interactive associations with mentoring relationship quality
Authors: Browne Rebecca , Jarjoura G. Roger , Keller Thomas E. , Tanyu Manolya , Herrera Carla , Schwartz Sarah E. O.
Published: June 2022

A significant body of research has demonstrated that mentoring relationships support positive youth development. The quality of the mentoring relationship has been identified as a predictor of positive youth outcomes. However, limited research has examined how engagement in a mentoring program may be related to youth depressive symptoms specifically. The current study utilized a sample of 2003 youth participating in mentoring programs across the country (Mage = 12.32, SD = 1.42, 55.1% female) from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds (39.1% Black, 23.6% White, 22.1% Hispanic, 3.3% Native American or Alaskan Native, .4% Asian or Pacific Islander, 1.8% other, and 9.7% Multi‐Ethnic) to investigate associations between youth depressive symptoms and mentoring relationship quality. Results revealed that: (1) mean depressive symptoms decreased after participation in a mentoring program; (2) several, but not all, relationship quality indicators predicted change in depressive symptoms; (3) baseline levels of depressive symptoms negatively predicted indicators of relationship quality; and (4) associations between several relationship quality indicators and follow‐up depressive symptoms differed by baseline levels of depressive symptoms. These findings highlight the potential benefits of mentoring programs to youth and the need to provide mentors with support around building relationships with youth, especially those experiencing depressive symptoms.
Bispecific T‐cell engagers for treatment of multiple myeloma
Authors: Ravi Gayathri , Costa Luciano J.
Published: June 2022

Bispecific T cell engagers (TCE) derive from monoclonal antibodies and concomitantly engage a target on the surface of cancer cell and CD3 on the surface of T‐cells. TCEs promote T cell activation and lysis of tumor cells. Most TCEs in development for multiple myeloma (MM) target the B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) and differ among themselves in structure, pharmacokinetics, route and schedule of administration. CD3/BCMA TCEs produce response in ~60% of patients treated in phase 1 trials. TCEs are also in development targeting the G protein‐coupled receptor, class C group 5 member D (GPRC5D) and the Fc receptor homologue 5 (FcRH5). Main toxicities are cytokine release syndrome and cytopenias. Here we review the current development and future directions of TCEs in MM.
Understanding the experiences of stigma in relation to social support among an Australian community cohort of people living with epilepsy
Authors: Coleman Honor , Peterson Chris L. , Walker Christine
Published: June 2022

The deleterious impact of stigma on the well‐being and quality of life of people living with epilepsy (PWE) is well known but given the social nature of stigma, it is important to understand what stigma means to PWE in different social contexts. To date, there are few qualitative studies on the experience of stigma for PWE in Australia and few studies examining social support as a possible mitigating factor. The current study set out to examine (i) PWE's own understanding of stigma, and (ii) whether social support could mitigate experiences of stigma. Stigma was conceptualised according to Scambler's idea of perceived stigma, or threat of discrimination, and internalised stigma. Three‐hundred and forty‐three surveys were received as part of the Australian Epilepsy Longitudinal Survey (AELS). The survey collected quantitative data on stigma and social support. Qualitative data was collected through free‐text responses to the question, “What does stigma mean to you?” Qualitative responses pointed to misunderstanding as a key aspect of stigma. Social support had a greater role in reducing internalised stigma as opposed to perceived stigma. The current study is one of the first to examine an Australian cohort of PWE's understanding of stigma and its relationship to social support.
Gravitational Analysis of Rotating Charged Black‐Hole‐Like Solution in Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet Gravity
Authors: Ali Riasat , Babar Rimsha , Asgher Muhammad
Published: June 2022

This work analyzes the Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet gravity of charged black hole solutions through Newman–Janis approach. The Hawking temperature for corresponding black hole is also computed. The solution depends upon rotation parameter a, black hole mass, charge and horizon. Moreover, the graphical behavior of temperature via event horizon to analyze the stability of black hole under the effects of rotation parameter is discussed. The graphs are plotted in the presence/absence of rotation parameter and charge. Furthermore, the Hawking temperature under gravity effects is studied by using the semi‐classical method. It is also observed that the maximum temperature at non‐zero horizon depicts the BH remnant. Finally, the logarithmic corrected entropy for given black hole is computed and the logarithmic corrected entropy under effects of rotation and correction parameter are studied.
Hochleistungsaerogelbeton – Optimierung, Tragverhalten, Festigkeit
Authors: Fickler Silvia , Heidrich Till , Welsch Torsten , Schnellenbach‐Held Martina
Published: June 2022

In [1] wurde über die Entwicklung eines neuartigen Konstruktionsleichtbetons auf der Basis von Silica‐Aerogelen, dem sogenannten Hochleistungsaerogelbeton (High Performance Aerogel Concrete, HPAC) berichtet. Neben hervorragenden Eigenschaften bezüglich des Brand‐ und Schallschutzes verfügt HPAC über eine sehr geringe Wärmeleitfähigkeit bei relativ hoher Druckfestigkeit und ist daher für die Herstellung monolithischer Außenbauteile ohne zusätzliche Wärmedämmung geeignet. Um die Einsatzmöglichkeiten des neuen Werkstoffs in der Baupraxis zu erweitern, wurde dieser seit seiner Vorstellung im Jahr 2016 am Institut für Massivbau der Universität Duisburg‐Essen kontinuierlich weiterentwickelt. Dies betrifft zum einen die Optimierung des Werkstoffs hinsichtlich seines Schwindverhaltens und zum anderen die Beschreibung des Tragverhaltens unter Druck‐ und Zugbeanspruchung sowie die statistische Auswertung der Druckfestigkeit. Während der erste Aspekt insbesondere für die Herstellung bewehrter HPAC‐Bauteile relevant ist, bilden die Untersuchungen zum Tragverhalten und die statistische Auswertung die Grundlage für wirklichkeitsnahe Berechnungen mithilfe der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode und die Ermittlung charakteristischer Festigkeiten. Nachfolgend wird über die Ergebnisse dieser Untersuchungen berichtet.
100 Jahre Durchstanzen im Massivbau – Alles erforscht?
Authors: Ungermann Jan , Kalus Matthias , Claßen Martin , Hegger Josef
Published: June 2022

Flachdecken sind eine heute oft ausgeführte Konstruktionsform im Hoch‐ und Industriebau, die zu Beginn des 20. Jahrhunderts erstmals angewendet wurde. Flachdecken ermöglichen vor allem flexibel und nachhaltig nutzbare Gebäudestrukturen, die maßgeblich zur Verlängerung der Gesamtnutzungsdauer beitragen. Das durch die punktförmige Lagerung verursachte Durchstanzversagen stellt in der Bemessung oftmals den entscheidenden Nachweis dar. Seit mehr als 100 Jahren ist daher eine Vielzahl experimenteller und numerischer Untersuchungen zum Durchstanzen durchgeführt worden. Hierbei lag der Fokus gleichermaßen auf dem Durchstanzen bei Flachdecken und Fundamenten, die im Vergleich durch ihre gedrungene Ausführung ohne günstig wirkende Plattenmembranwirkungen ein verändertes Tragverhalten aufweisen. In diesem Beitrag werden die wesentlichen Meilensteine in der historischen Entwicklung punktförmig gelagerter Platten aufgezeigt und anschließend aktuelle Untersuchungen am Institut für Massivbau in Aachen vorgestellt. Dabei geht der Beitrag auch auf die Frage ein, ob trotz der langen Forschungshistorie immer noch wissenschaftlicher Forschungsbedarf besteht.
Metabolic engineering of oleaginous yeast Rhodotorula toruloides for overproduction of triacetic acid lactone
Authors: Cao Mingfeng , Tran Vinh G. , Qin Jiansong , Olson Andrew , Mishra Shekhar , Schultz John C. , Huang Chunshuai , Xie Dongming , Zhao Huimin
Published: June 2022

The plant‐sourced polyketide triacetic acid lactone (TAL) has been recognized as a promising platform chemical for the biorefinery industry. However, its practical application was rather limited due to low natural abundance and inefficient cell factories for biosynthesis. Here, we report the metabolic engineering of oleaginous yeast Rhodotorula toruloides for TAL overproduction. We first introduced a 2‐pyrone synthase gene from Gerbera hybrida (GhPS) into R. toruloides and investigated the effects of different carbon sources on TAL production. We then systematically employed a variety of metabolic engineering strategies to increase the flux of acetyl‐CoA by enhancing its biosynthetic pathways and disrupting its competing pathways. We found that overexpression of ATP‐citrate lyase (ACL1) improved TAL production by 45% compared to the GhPS overexpressing strain, and additional overexpression of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC1) further increased TAL production by 29%. Finally, we characterized the resulting strain I12‐ACL1‐ACC1 using fed‐batch bioreactor fermentation in glucose or oilcane juice medium with acetate supplementation and achieved a titer of 28 or 23 g/L TAL, respectively. This study demonstrates that R. toruloides is a promising host for the production of TAL and other acetyl‐CoA‐derived polyketides from low‐cost carbon sources.
Coupled versus decoupled visuomotor feedback: Differential frontoparietal activity during curved reach planning on simultaneous functional near‐infrared spectroscopy and electroencephalography
Authors: Le Duc Trung , Ogawa Hiroki , Tsuyuhara Masato , Watanabe Kazuki , Watanabe Tatsunori , Ochi Ryosuke , Nishijo Hisao , Mihara Masahito , Fujita Naoto , Urakawa Susumu
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Interacting with the environment requires the planning and execution of reach‐to‐target movements along given reach trajectory paths. Human neural mechanisms for the motor planning of linear, or point‐to‐point, reaching movements are relatively well studied. However, the corresponding representations for curved and more complex reaching movements require further investigation. Additionally, the visual and proprioceptive feedback of hand positioning can be spatially and sequentially coupled in alignment (e.g., directly reaching for an object), termed coupled visuomotor feedback, or spatially decoupled (e.g., dragging the computer mouse forward to move the cursor upward), termed decoupled visuomotor feedback. During reach planning, visuomotor processing routes may differ across feedback types.

Methods

We investigated the involvement of the frontoparietal regions, including the superior parietal lobule (SPL), dorsal premotor cortex (PMd), and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), in curved reach planning under different feedback conditions. Participants engaged in two delayed‐response reaching tasks with identical starting and target position sets but different reach trajectory paths (linear or curved) under two feedback conditions (coupled or decoupled). Neural responses in frontoparietal regions were analyzed using a combination of functional near‐infrared spectroscopy and electroencephalography.

Results

The results revealed that, regarding the cue period, curved reach planning had a higher hemodynamic response in the left SPL and bilateral PMd and a smaller high‐beta power in the left parietal regions than linear reach planning. Regarding the delay period, higher hemodynamic responses during curved reach planning were observed in the right dlPFC for decoupled feedback than those for coupled feedback.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the crucial involvement of both SPL and PMd activities in trajectory‐path processing for curved reach planning. Moreover, the dlPFC may be especially involved in the planning of curved reaching movements under decoupled feedback conditions. Thus, this study provides insight into the neural mechanisms underlying reaching function via different feedback conditions.
Improving disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment using novel bionic technologies
Authors: Manero Albert , Crawford Kaitlyn E. , Prock‐Gibbs Hannah , Shah Neel , Gandhi Deep , Coathup Melanie J.
Published: June 2022

Increased human life expectancy, due in part to improvements in infant and childhood survival, more active lifestyles, in combination with higher patient expectations for better health outcomes, is leading to an extensive change in the number, type and manner in which health conditions are treated. Over the next decades as the global population rapidly progresses toward a super‐aging society, meeting the long‐term quality of care needs is forecast to present a major healthcare challenge. The goal is to ensure longer periods of good health, a sustained sense of well‐being, with extended periods of activity, social engagement, and productivity. To accomplish these goals, multifunctionalized interfaces are an indispensable component of next generation medical technologies. The development of more sophisticated materials and devices as well as an improved understanding of human disease is forecast to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to Alzheimer's disease and will impact disease prevention. This review examines emerging cutting‐edge bionic materials, devices and technologies developed to advance disease prevention, and medical care and treatment in our elderly population including developments in smart bandages, cochlear implants, and the increasing role of artificial intelligence and nanorobotics in medicine.
Blood vessel remodeling in late stage of vascular network reconstruction is essential for peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Wang Gang , Lu Panjian , Qiao Pingping , Zhang Ping , Cai Xiaodong , Tang Leili , Qian Tianmei , Wang Hongkui
Published: June 2022

One of the bottlenecks of advanced study on tissue engineering in regenerative medicine is rapid and functional vascularization. For a deeper comprehension of vascularization, the exhaustive, dynamic, and three‐dimensional depiction of perfused vascular network reconstruction during peripheral nerve regeneration was performed using Micro‐CT scanning. The 10 mm defect of sciatic nerve in rat was bridged by the autologous or tissue engineered nerve. The blood vessel anastomosis between nerve stumps and autologous nerve accomplished at 4 days to 1 week after surgery, which was a sufficient basis for the mature vascular network re‐establishment. The stronger ability for sprouting angiogenesis and vascular remodeling of autologous nerve compared with tissue engineered nerve was revealed. However, common phases of vascularization in peripheral nerve regeneration were painted: hypoxic initiation, sprouting angiogenesis, and remodeling and maturation. The effect of less‐concerned vascular remodeling on nerve regeneration was further analyzed after nerve crush injury. The blockage of vascular remodeling in late stage by VEGF injection significantly inhibited axons and myelin sheaths regeneration, which attenuated the impulse conduction toward reinnervated muscles. It was illustrated that a large amount of immature blood vessels rather than necessary vascular remodeling elevated local inflammation level in nerve regeneration microenvironment. The figures inspired us to understand the close connections between vascularization and peripheral nerve regeneration from a broader dimension to achieve better constructions, regulations and repair effects of tissue engineered nerves in clinic.
Real‐world treatment patterns of metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer patients receiving epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Shenolikar Rahul , Liu Sizhu , Shah Anne , Tse Jenny , Cao Yao , Near Aimee
Published: June 2022

Background

Several epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKI) have been approved for first‐line (1L) treatment of EGFR‐mutated metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) in the United States (US). Real‐world analyses of 1L treatment patterns with EGFR TKIs, including the third‐generation EGFR TKI osimertinib which was most recently approved in 2018, are still sparse.

Methods

This retrospective observational study used data from IQVIA's prescription claims (LRx) and medical claims (Dx) databases. mNSCLC patients newly treated with any EGFR TKI in the 1L setting were identified from January 1, 2015 to April 30, 2020; the first date of EGFR TKI (third‐generation osimertinib, first‐generation [erlotinib, gefitinib], or second‐generation [afatinib, dacomitinib]) was the index date. Treatment patterns were reported in the cohorts stratified by 1L EGFR TKI.

Results

A total of 2505 patients were included in the study (982 osimertinib, 1060 first‐generation, and 463 second‐generation EGFR TKI). Beginning in 2018, osimertinib became the most common 1L EGFR TKI (66.7%) and in early 2020, it accounted for 90.6% of 1L EGFR TKIs. Nearly all patients (>97%) were treated with 1L EGFR TKI monotherapy. Patients with 1L osimertinib had longer treatment duration compared to patients with 1L first‐ or second‐generation EGFR TKI (median months: 17.8 vs. 8.7 vs. 10.5, respectively; log‐rank test for comparisons with osimertinib p < 0.0001) over median follow‐up times of 9.8, 20.5, and 19.3 months. 32.5% and 36.3% of the first‐ and second‐generation EGFR TKI cohorts, respectively, had evidence of 2L treatment. Osimertinib monotherapy accounted for the majority of 2L treatments (58.3%/60.7%) and 11.3%/8.9% had 2L chemotherapy or immuno‐oncology therapy following 1L first‐ or second‐generation EGFR TKI.

Conclusion

In this real‐world study of a US claims database, 1L treatment duration was longer with osimertinib compared with other EGFR TKIs. Future studies with longer follow‐up are recommended to understand treatment patterns after progression on EGFR TKIs.
Oncogenic fusion transcript analysis identified ADAP1‐NOC4L, potentially associated with metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Talebi Amin , Shahidsales Soodabeh , Aliakbarian Mohsen , Pezeshki Rad Masoud , Kerachian Mohammad Amin
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Fusion transcripts are transcriptome‐mediated alterations involved in tumorigenesis and are considered as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers. In metastatic colorectal carcinoma (mCRC), fusion transcripts are rarely reported. The main challenge is to identify driver chimeras with a significant role in cancer progression.

Methods

In the present study, 86 RNA sequencing data samples were analyzed to discover driver fusion transcripts. Functional assays included clonogenic cell survival, wound‐healing, and transwell cell invasion. Quantitative expression analysis of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptotic regulators, and metastatic markers were examined for the candidate fusion genes. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed using patient overall survival (OS).

Results

A variety of driver fusions were identified. Fourteen fusion genes (51% of mCRC), each at least found in two mCRC samples, were determined as oncogenic fusion transcripts by in silico analysis of their functions. Among them, two recurrent chimeric transcripts confirmed by Sanger sequencing were selected. Positive expression of ADAP1‐NOC4L was significantly associated with an increased risk of poor OS in mCRC patients. In vitro transforming potential for the chimera, resulting from the fusion of ADAP1 and NOC4L was assessed. Overexpression of this fusion gene increased cell proliferation and enhanced migration and invasion of CRC cells. In addition, it significantly upregulated EMT and anti‐apoptotic markers.

Conclusions

ADAP1‐NOC4L transcript chimera, a driver chimera identified in this study, provides new insight into the underlying mechanisms involved in the development and spread of mCRC. It suggests the potential of RNA‐based alterations as novel targets for personalized medicine in clinical practice.
Accuracy of curability expectations in patients with gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: Agarwal Rajiv , Shin Paul , Knezevic Andrea , Nelson Judith E. , Romano Danielle R. , Bernal Camila , Desai Anjali V. , Epstein Andrew S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Assessment of illness and treatment understanding among cancer patients has largely focused on those with advanced disease. Less is known about patient expectations at earlier stages of cancer and potential modifiers of accurate understanding.

Methods

We assessed accuracy of cure expectations in patients across all stages with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Accuracy was determined by independent reviews of patient health records by oncologists on the investigative team. Impact on cure accuracy of selected clinical variables and health‐information preferences was analyzed.

Results

Hundred and thirty five patients were included for analysis, with 100% interrater agreement for accuracy between oncologist reviewers. Sixety five patients (48%) had accurate cure expectations from their cancer treatment. Accuracy was lower in Stage IV versus Stage I–III disease (35% vs. 63%, p < 0.01), lower in unresectable versus resectable disease (35% vs. 67%, p < 0.01), and higher in patients with early‐stage disease who received adjuvant chemotherapy versus those who did not (78% vs. 53%, p = 0.04). Accuracy did not differ by health‐information preferences and remained stable over time. Of 63 patients who died, baseline accuracy differed by location of death (p = 0.03), with greater accuracy in those who died with home hospice (56%). Accuracy was lower in those who were hospitalized in the last 30 days of life versus those who were not (25% vs. 59%, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Inaccurate cure expectations are prevalent across all stages of GI cancers, but particularly among those with metastatic or unresectable disease. High‐quality, iterative communication strategies may facilitate patient illness and treatment understanding throughout the disease course.
Intermediate Pyrolysis of Desert Date Shell for Conversion to High‐Quality Biomaterial Resources
Authors: Kabir Garba , Mohammed Isah Yakub , Abakr Yousif Abdalla , Hameed Bassim H.
Published: June 2022

Intermediate pyrolysis on desert date (Balanites aegyptiacus) shell (BAS) was accomplished for the first time to authenticate the biomass potential for producing quality biomaterials such as bio‐oil and biochar. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental analysis, and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) were employed to examine the compositions of the resultant bio‐oil. The FTIR spectrum revealed the functional groups of oxygenated compounds like aldehydes, alcohols, phenolics, acids, and esters in the bio‐oil. GC‐MS confirmed that the bio‐oil has diverse compositions of oxygenated compounds rich in acids, phenolics, and benzene derivatives. From the ultimate analysis, the bio‐oil had a higher carbon content and a lower oxygen content than the corresponding BAS sample. The calorific values, by comparison, were higher than that of the BAS sample but lower than for fossil fuels. The favorable outcomes from the characters of the bio‐oil and biochar suggested that BAS can be an attractive feedstock to produce high‐value biomaterials.
Optimizing NH4+ Storage Capability of Nickel Ferrocyanide by Regulating Coordination Anion in Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Yu Haoxiang , Fan Leiyu , Yan Huihui , Deng Chenchen , Yan Lei , Shu Jie , Wang Zhen‐Bo
Published: June 2022

Will anions in electrolytes affect the electrochemical properties of Prussian blue analogues for aqueous ammonium ion batteries? In this study, the electrochemical reaction between nickel ferrocyanide and ammonium ions is investigated in three common inorganic ammonium salt solutions [NH4NO3, NH4Cl, and (NH4)2SO4]. The results suggest that at the same NH4+ concentration, nickel ferrocyanide exhibits different electrochemical performances. The as‐prepared nickel ferrocyanide contains two phases, which are rhombohedral phase and cubic phase. Rhombohedral phase of nickel ferrocyanide has a high reactivity in 0.5 M (NH4)2SO4 solution during cycling while cubic phase shows good performance in 1 M NH4NO3 and 1 M NH4Cl electrolyte. It should be noted that the performance of cubic phase is superior to rhombohedral phase in kinetic consideration. Additionally, due to the strong coordination ability of chloride, nickel ferrocyanide exhibits an excellent electrochemical performance in 1 M NH4NO3 solution, rather than 1 M NH4Cl electrolyte.
Upcycling of spent LiCoO2 cathodes via nickel‐ and manganese‐doping
Authors: Zhang Nianji , Deng Wenjing , Xu Zhixiao , Wang Xiaolei
Published: June 2022

Direct recycling has been regarded as one of the most promising approaches to dealing with the increasing amount of spent lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, the current direct recycling method remains insufficient to regenerate outdated cathodes to meet current industry needs as it only aims at recovering the structure and composition of degraded cathodes. Herein, a nickel (Ni) and manganese (Mn) co‐doping strategy has been adopted to enhance LiCoO2 (LCO) cathode for next‐generation high‐performance LIBs through a conventional hydrothermal treatment combined with short annealing approach. Unlike direct recycling methods that make no changes to the chemical composition of cathodes, the unique upcycling process fabricates a series of cathodes doped with different contents of Ni and Mn. The regenerated LCO cathode with 5% doping delivers excellent electrochemical performance with a discharge capacity of 160.23 mAh g−1 at 1.0 C and capacity retention of 91.2% after 100 cycles, considerably surpassing those of the pristine one (124.05 mAh g−1 and 89.05%). All results indicate the feasibility of such Ni–Mn co‐doping‐enabled upcycling on regenerating LCO cathodes.
Druggability Evaluation of the Neuron Derived Orphan Receptor (NOR‐1) Reveals Inverse NOR‐1 Agonists
Authors: Zaienne Daniel , Arifi Silvia , Marschner Julian A. , Heering Jan , Merk Daniel
Published: June 2022

The neuron derived orphan receptor (NOR‐1, NR4A3) is among the least studied nuclear receptors. Its physiological role and therapeutic potential remain widely elusive which is in part due to the lack of chemical tools that can directly modulate NOR‐1 activity. To probe the possibility of pharmacological NOR‐1 modulation, we have tested a drug fragment library for NOR‐1 activation and repression. Despite low hit‐rate (<1 %), we have obtained three NOR‐1 ligand chemotypes one of which could be rapidly expanded to an analogue comprising low micromolar inverse NOR‐1 agonist potency and altering NOR‐1 regulated gene expression in a cellular setting. It confirms druggability of the transcription factor and may serve as an early tool to assess the role and potential of NOR‐1.
Calcium‐binding proteins typify the dopaminergic neuronal subtypes in the ventral tegmental area of zebra finch,Taeniopygia guttata
Authors: Mitra Saptarsi , Basu Sumela , Singh Omprakash , Srivastava Abhinav , Singru Praful S.
Published: June 2022

Calcium‐binding proteins (CBPs) regulate neuronal function in midbrain dopamine (DA)‐ergic neurons in mammals by buffering and sensing the intracellular Ca2+, and vesicular release. In birds, the equivalent set of neurons are important in song learning, directed singing, courtship, and energy balance, yet the status of CBPs in these neurons is unknown. Herein, for the first time, we probe the nature of CBPs, namely, Calbindin‐, Calretinin‐, Parvalbumin‐, and Secretagogin‐expressing DA neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra (SN) in the midbrain of zebra finch,Taeniopygia guttata. qRT‐PCR analysis of ventral midbrain tissue fragment revealed higher Calbindin‐ and Calretinin‐mRNA levels compared to Parvalbumin and Secretagogin. Application of immunofluorescence showed CBP‐immunoreactive (‐i) neurons in VTA (anterior [VTAa], mid [VTAm], caudal [VTAc]), SN (compacta [SNc], and reticulata [SNr]). Compared to VTAa, higher Calbindin‐ and Parvalbumin‐immunoreactivity (‐ir), and lower Calretinin‐ir were observed in VTAm and VTAc. Secretagogin‐ir was highly localized to VTAa. In SN, Calbindin‐ and Calretinin‐ir were higher in SNc, SNr was Parvalbumin enriched, and Secretagogin‐ir was not detected. Weak, moderate, and intense tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐i VTA neurons were demarcated as subtypes 1, 2, and 3, respectively. While subtype 1 TH‐i neurons were neither Calbindin‐ nor Calretinin‐i, ∼80 and ∼65% subtype 2 and ∼30 and ∼45% subtype 3 TH‐i neurons co‐expressed Calbindin and Calretinin, respectively. All TH‐i neuronal subtypes co‐expressed Parvalbumin with reciprocal relationship with TH‐ir. We suggest that the CBPs may determine VTA DA neuronal heterogeneity and differentially regulate their activity inT. guttata.
Synthesis and Improved Photoluminescent Properties and Stability of Bromine‐Rich CsPbBr3 Nanocrystals Via using CTAB as Additive
Authors: Chi Shaohua , Yang Shuo , Sun Yansen , Pang Zhenyu , Sun Xiaoxu , Fan Lin , Wang Fengyou , Liu Xiaoyan , Wei Maobin , Yang Jinghai , Yang Nannan , Yang Lili
Published: June 2022

Although CsPbBr3 nanocrystals (NCs) show excellent optoelectronic properties, their stability greatly limits their potential applications due to the ionicity. Stable bromine‐rich CsPbBr3 nanocrystals (NCs) are achieved by the thermal injection method, which includes adding cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) to a cesium oleate precursor solution. The CTAB as a ligand provides strong binding to the NC surface to effectively passivate the surface defects, and most importantly helps to realize the formation of bromine‐rich CsPbBr3 NCs. The obtained bromine‐rich CsPbBr3 NCs show higher photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) and enhanced moisture and UV illumination stability. These results provide a simple strategy to synthesize bromine‐rich CsPbBr3 NCs, which can be promising for integrating into the synthesize technique of perovskite optoelectronic devices.
Identifying contamination versus ingestion in hair testing, with cocaine as example
Authors: Hill Virginia A. , Schaffer Michael I. , Paulsen Ryan B. , Stowe Gary Neil
Published: June 2022

When developing a procedure to identify external contamination of hair as opposed to drug that is in hair from ingestion, there are components of the process that must be considered in the final method. A method that does not achieve the objective may be missing one or more of these elements: choice of solvent, a drug‐binding agent, ratio of solvent to hair, temperature, time, intactness of the hair, and establishing, for the chosen method, a criterion based on the drug contents of the wash and hair that indicates the hair may be contaminated.