bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encoding and Storage of Information in Mechanical Metamaterials
Authors: Meng Zhiqiang , Yan Hujie , Liu Mingchao , Qin Wenkai , Genin Guy M. , Chen Chang Qing
Published: April 2023

Information processing using material's own properties has gained increasing interest. Mechanical metamaterials, due to their diversity of deformation modes and wide design space, can be used to realize information processing, such as computing and storage. Here a mechanical metamaterial system is demonstrated for material‐based encoding and storage of data through programmed reconfigurations of the metamaterial's structured building blocks. Sequential encoding and decoding are achieved in the three‐dimensional (3D) printed pixelated mechanical metamaterial via kirigami‐based “pixels” with programmable, temperature‐dependent bistability. The mechanical metamaterial is demonstrated via a multistep deformation of encoding messages of texts and surfaces with arrays of binary data, and then decoding them by applying a predetermined stretching and heating regimen to sequentially retrieve layers of stored information and display them on its surface. This approach serves as a general framework to enable the encoding and storage of data with mechanical metamaterials.
A Microbial Cell Coating Based on a Conjugated Polyelectrolyte with Broad Reduction Potential Increases Inward and Outward Extracellular Electron Transfer
Authors: Quek Glenn , McCuskey Samantha R. , Vázquez Ricardo Javier , Cox‐Vázquez Sarah J. , Bazan Guillermo C.
Published: April 2023

Bioelectrochemical systems hold the promise of enabling sustainable microbial‐mediated energy interconversion between electrical and chemical energy. Herein, it is demonstrated how a single conjugated polymer can be used to enhance bidirectional extracellular electron transfer through forming self‐assembled coatings on individual cells. Specifically, the n‐type conjugated polyelectrolyte p(cNDI‐gT2) exhibits a reduction potential window between −0.1 and −0.8 V (vs Ag/AgCl), thereby driving thermodynamically favored electron transfer in both directions across the abiotic‐biotic interface that involves the outer membrane cytochromes and flavins of Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1. Electrochemical tests show that injection from an external electrode into Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 is enabled at negative potentials (−0.6 V), while electron extraction is possible at positive potentials (0.2 V). Relative to controls, the biohybrid shows a sixfold increase in biocurrent generation and a 35‐fold increase in current uptake for the bioelectrosynthesis of succinate from fumarate. This demonstrated abiotic‐biotic synergy provides new strategies for designing multifunctional biohybrids.
Epitaxial Design of Complex Nickelates as Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Choi Min‐Ju , Wang Le , Stoerzinger Kelsey A. , Chung Sung‐Yoon , Chambers Scott A. , Du Yingge
Published: April 2023

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a crucial process in electrochemical water splitting, a promising technology to renewably yield hydrogen gas from water. Designing and developing earth‐abundant, efficient, and stable OER electrocatalysts to replace the most widely used but scarce RuO2 and IrO2 are thus of critical interest. Recently, ABO3‐structured perovskite oxides, especially rare‐earth nickelates, are extensively studied for their potential use as OER electrocatalysts. In particular, the epitaxial synthesis of complex oxide thin films allows flexible and precise control over the materials so that their structure–stability–property relationships can be established. Using nickelate thin films as model systems, this review illustrates how epitaxial design allows researchers to test different hypotheses and proposed descriptors, as well as formulate new design principles. Following a brief introduction to the background of OER mechanisms, proposed activity descriptors, and synthesis methods, various epitaxial design strategies are surveyed including strain tuning, composition control, surface termination/orientation selection, defect engineering, and interface design. These have led to precise control over the atomic structures and electronic properties of nickelates which in turn determine their electrochemical performance. Finally, the remaining challenges and perspectives toward a deeper understanding and use of complex oxides as OER catalysts are discussed.
Divergent Synthesis of Alcohols and Ketones via Cross‐Coupling of Secondary Alcohols under Manganese Catalysis
Authors: Sun Feixiang , Huang Jiamin , Wei Zhihong , Tang Conghui , Liu Weiping
Published: April 2023

A homogeneous manganese‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of two secondary alcohols for the divergent synthesis of γ‐disubstituted alcohols and β‐disubstituted ketones is reported. Employing the well‐defined Mn‐MACHOPh as the catalyst, this novel protocol has a broad substrate scope with good functional group tolerance and affords a diverse library of valuable disubstituted alcohols and ketones in moderate to good yields. The strong influence of the reaction temperature on the selective formation of alcohol products was theorized in preliminary DFT studies. Studies have shown that the Gibbs free energy of the formation of alcohols is thermodynamically more favourable than corresponding ketones at a lower temperature.
Bio‐Inspired Aerobic‐Hydrophobic Janus Interface on Partially Carbonized Iron Heterostructure Promotes Bifunctional Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Zong Wei , Gao Haiqi , Ouyang Yue , Chu Kaibin , Guo Hele , Zhang Leiqian , Zhang Wei , Chen Ruwei , Dai Yuhang , Guo Fei , Zhu Jiexin , Zhang Zhenfang , Ye Chumei , Miao Yue‐E. , Hofkens Johan , Lai Feili , Liu Tianxi
Published: April 2023

Competition from hydrogen/oxygen evolution reactions and low solubility of N2 in aqueous systems limited the selectivity and activity on nitrogen fixation reaction. Herein, we design an aerobic‐hydrophobic Janus structure by introducing fluorinated modification on porous carbon nanofibers embedded with partially carbonized iron heterojunctions (Fe3C/Fe@PCNF‐F). The simulations prove that the Janus structure can keep the internal Fe3C/Fe@PCNF‐F away from water infiltration and endow a N2 molecular‐concentrating effect, suppressing the competing reactions and overcoming the mass‐transfer limitations to build a robust “quasi‐solid–gas” state micro‐domain around the catalyst surface. In this proof‐of‐concept system, the Fe3C/Fe@PCNF‐F exhibits excellent electrocatalytic performance for nitrogen fixation (NH3 yield rate up to 29.2 μg h−1 mg−1cat. and Faraday efficiency (FE) up to 27.8 % in nitrogen reduction reaction; NO3− yield rate up to 15.7 μg h−1 mg−1cat. and FE up to 3.4 % in nitrogen oxidation reaction).
Integration of reactor network synthesis: A literature review and opportunities for future research
Authors: Zhou Chunli , Deng Jinglin , Gao Feng , Zhu Yin , Jia Chenyang , Wang Jingtao
Published: April 2023

The reactor network synthesis (RNS) is one of the subtopics of the chemical process synthesis, the purpose of which is to find an optimal reactor network for the specific objective function of the studied reaction system. This review discusses the principles, advantages, and disadvantages of various methods of RNS, together with the state of the research in each field. These methods could be divided into four categories: the process‐based approach (such as the attainable region, the targeting approach, and the method based on the elementary process functions), superstructure‐based approach, stochastic optimization, and parametric method. Finally, the paper discusses the existing problems of RNS in academic researches and practical applications, as well as its research directions in the future. This paper is helpful to the readers who have interests in the design and optimization of the reactor networks.
Microplastics in sediments of the river Rhine—A workflow for preparation and analysis of sediment samples from aquatic river systems for monitoring purposes
Authors: Wiesner Yosri , Hoffmann Thomas , Range David , Altmann Korinna
Published: April 2023

Microplastics (MP) can be detected in all environmental systems. Marine and terrestrial aquatic systems, especially the transported suspended solids, have often been the focus of scientific investigations in the past. Sediments of aquatic river systems, on the other hand, were often ignored due to the time‐consuming sample preparation and analysis procedures. Spectroscopic measurement methods counting particle numbers are hardly suitable as detection methods, because there are plenty of natural particles next to a small number of MP particles. Integral methods, such as thermoanalytical methods are determining the particle mass independently of the inorganic components.

In this study, a workflow for sample preparation via density separation and subsequent analysis by thermal extraction desorption‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry is presented, which leads to representative and homogeneous samples and allows fast and robust MP mass content measurements suitable for routine analysis. Polymers were identified and quantified in all samples. Polyethylene and styrene‐butadiene rubber are the dominant polymers, besides polypropylene and polystyrene. Overall, total polymer masses between 1.18 and 337.0 µg/g could be determined. Highest MP concentrations in riverbed sediment are found in sites characterized by low flow velocities in harbors and reservoirs, while MP concentrations in sandy/gravelly bed sediments with higher flow velocities are small.
Preparation of green colorimetric pH sensor using Humulus lupulus L. (common hop) biomolecular extract for sweat monitoring
Authors: Alorabi Ali Q. , Alessa Hussain , Alamrani Nasser A. , Alluhaybi Ahmad A. , Al‐Ahmed Zehbah A. , Sayqal Ali , Abumelha Hana M. , El‐Metwaly Nashwa M.
Published: April 2023

Novel smart cotton diagnostic assay was developed toward onsite sensing of sweat pH variations for possible medical applications such as drug test and healthcare purposes. Humulus lupulus L. extract was obtained according to previously reported procedure. As reported by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the extract demonstrated the presence of hop acids, prenylchalcones, and prenylflavanones, which is responsible for the colorimetric changes. The extract was applied to cellulose fibers employing potassium aluminum sulfate as mordant. This was observed by the formation of mordant/xanthohumol nanoparticles onto cotton surface. The absorption spectra and CIE (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage) Lab screening of the prepared cotton assay showed colorimetric changes in association with hypsochromic shift from 600 nm to 433 nm upon exposure to sweat simulant fluid (pH < 7). The biochromic activity of the xanthohumol‐finished cotton depends mainly on the halochromic performance of the xanthohumol chromophore to show a colorimetric switch from yellow to white owing to intramolecular charge transfer in the xanthohumol molecule. No substantial defects were detected in gas‐permeability and stiffness of the treated fabrics. Satisfactory fastness was approved for the xanthohumol‐dyed diagnostic cotton assay.
Single or tandem autologous stem cell transplantation for treating Chinese patients with refractory/relapsed classical Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Chen , Deng Jili , Xie Yan , Mi Lan , Liu Weiping , Wang Xiaopei , Zhao Linjun , Song Yuqin , Zhu Jun
Published: April 2023

Background

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard treatment strategy for refractory or relapsed classical Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R cHL). However, a single transplantation is insufficient to cure the disease because of unfavorable risk factors. Herein, we evaluated the outcomes of single or tandem ASCT in patients with R/R cHL, especially in high‐risk patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed R/R cHL patients who underwent single or tandem ASCT between April 2000 and June 2021 at the Beijing Cancer Hospital and Peking University International Hospital.

Results

A total of 134 patients were enrolled. Patients were allocated to a favorable‐risk group (group A, n = 33), an unfavorable‐risk group (group B, n = 81) that underwent single ASCT, and an unfavorable‐risk group that underwent tandem ASCT (group C, n = 20). The median follow‐up time was 99 months (range, 91–107 months), and no treatment‐related deaths occurred after single or tandem ASCT. However, 27 patients (2 in group C) died during the follow‐up period. The groups A, B, and C had 5‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) rates of 77.05%, 45%, and 74.67%, respectively (p = 0.0014), and 5‐year overall survival (OS) rates of 89.85%, 76.06%, and 95%, respectively (p = 0.18). Neither the median PFS rates of groups A and C nor the OS rates of all groups were reached.

Conclusions

Our study discusses the advantages of tandem transplantation for high‐risk patients with R/R cHL.
IRF4 rearrangement may predict favorable prognosis in children and young adults with primary head and neck large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Jiang Xiang‐Nan , Yu Fang , Xue Tian , Xia Qing‐Xin , Bai Qian‐Ming , Yu Bao‐Hua , Shui Ruo‐Hong , Zhou Xiao‐Yan , Zhu Xiong‐Zeng , Cao Jun‐Ning , Hong Xiao‐Nan , Li Xiao‐Qiu
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Large B‐cell lymphoma with IRF4 rearrangement (LBCL, IRF4+) has been recently recognized as a specific entity that is frequently associated with young age and favorable prognosis. However, whether the good outcome of the disease is due to IRF4+ or other factors remains obscure. We thus analyzed 100 young patients with primary head and neck LBCL to see the clinicopathologic correlates of IRF4+.

Methods

The histopathology, immunophenotype, IRF4 status of the tumors, and clinical data were reviewed.

Results

Twenty‐one tumors were diagnosed as LBCL, IRF4+, which were more frequently associated with a follicular growth pattern, medium‐sized blastoid cytology, germinal center B‐cell‐like, and CD5+ phenotype, compared with IRF4− ones. While most of the patients received chemotherapy with or without radiation, eight IRF4+ patients received mere surgical resection of the tumor and exhibited excellent outcome. IRF4+ cases featured a significantly higher complete remission rate, and better survivals compared with IRF4− ones. Multivariate analysis confirmed IRF4+ correlates with a better survival.

Conclusion

Our work confirmed the unique clinicopathologic features of LBCL, IRF4+, and disclosed for the first time the independent favorable prognostic impact of IRF4+. These findings may further unravel the heterogeneity of LBCL occurring in youth, and aid in risk stratification and tailoring the therapeutic strategy.
Clinical outcomes and biomarkers of phyllodes tumors of the breast: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Chen Keyu , Xu Jiaojiao , Wang Wei , Jiang Ruiyuan , Zhang Huanping , Wang Xiaojia , Cao Jun , Fang Meiyu
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are rare neoplasms with a certain risk of recurrence and/or metastasis. In clinical practice, there is a lack of high‐quality clinical studies and unified guidelines to guide the treatment.

Materials and Methods

All malignant and recurrence/metastasis PTs were retrospectively collected, which were diagnosed from 2008 to 2022.

Results

A total of 82 patients were enrolled, including 69 malignant and 13 borderline tumors. 96.3% (79/82) received surgical treatment. During a median follow‐up of 55.5 months, 20 patients (20/82, 24.4%) had distant metastasis (DM), while 32 (32/82, 39.0%) had local recurrence (LR). Univariate analysis showed the survival of PTs was associated with surgical methods (p < 0.001), tumor size (p = 0.026), and biological behavior (p = 0.017), but not age at diagnosis. In relapsed borderline PTs, we did not find deaths due to disease progression. Patients with DM were all malignant PTs, with disease‐progression occurring within 3 years in more than 80% of patients. Among salvage treatments, the combination of antiangiogenic drugs improved the prognosis to some extent, with a significant increase in mPFS (2.77 vs. 1.53 months), but no significant statistical results were obtained (p = 0.168). Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was an independent predictor of the prognosis for malignant PTs (p = 0.001, HR = 1.203, 95%CI, 1.082–1.336).

Conclusion

Borderline PTs rarely metastasize, and even if LR occurs, surgical resection can lead to long‐term survival. In metastatic phyllodes tumors (MPT), systemic therapy is not effective, but antiangiogenic drugs may prolong survival. LDH is an independent prognostic factor for malignant PTs to identify high‐risk tumors.
Detection of the ADGRG6 hotspot mutations in urine for bladder cancer early screening by ARMS‐qPCR
Authors: Tan Dan , Jiang Wenqi , Hu Rixin , Li Zhuoran , Ou Tong
Published: April 2023

Background

In bladder cancer, recurrent ADGRG6 enhancer hotspot mutations (chr. 6: 142,706,206 G>A, chr. 6:142,706,209 C>T) were reported at a high mutation rate of approximately 50%. Thus, ADGRG6 enhancer mutation status might be a candidate for diagnostic biomarker.

Methods

To improve test efficacy, an amplification refractory mutation system combined with quantitative real‐time PCR (ARMS‐qPCR) assay was developed to detect the ADGRG6 mutations in a patient as a clinical diagnostic test. To validate the performance of the ARMS‐qPCR assay, artificial plasmids, cell DNA reference standard were used as templates, respectively. To test the clinical diagnostic ability, we detected the cell free DNA (cfDNA) and sediment DNA (sDNA) of 30 bladder cancer patients' urine by ARMS‐qPCR comparing with Sanger sequencing, followed by the droplet digital PCR to confirm the results. We also tested the urine of 100 healthy individuals and 90 patients whose diagnoses urinary tract infections or urinary stones but not bladder cancer.

Results

Sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 96.7% were achieved when the mutation rate of the artificial plasmid was 1%, and sensitivity of 96.7% and specificity of 100% were achieved when the mutation frequency of the reference standard was 0.5%. Sanger sequencing and ARMS‐qPCR both detected 30 cases of bladder cancer with 93.3% agreement. For the remaining unmatched sites, ARMS‐qPCR results were consistent with droplet digital PCR. Among 100 healthy individuals, three of them carried hotspot mutations by way of ARMS‐qPCR. Of 90 patients with urinary tract infections or urinary stones, no mutations were found by ARMS‐qPCR. Based on clinical detection, the ARMS‐qPCR assay's sensitivity is 83.3%, specificity is 98.4%.

Conclusion

We here present a novel urine test for ADGRG6 hotspot mutations with high accuracy and sensitivity, which may potentially serve as a rapid and non‐invasive tool for bladder cancer early screening and follow‐up relapse monitoring.
Effects of Central Elements on the Properties of Group 13 Dialdiminate Complexes
Authors: Aoyama Yuto , Sakai Yuki , Ito Shunichiro , Tanaka Kazuo
Published: April 2023

Novel luminescent dialdiminate complexes of the Group 13 elements were prepared to evaluate the effects of the central element on their properties. We demonstrate that their absorption wavelength and the response to Lewis bases apparently depend on the central atom. The aluminum complex exhibited the absorption band in the higher‐energy region than the gallium and indium congeners. Theoretical calculations suggest that the aluminum complex has a lower‐lying highest‐occupied molecular orbital than the other complexes. Additionally, the emission intensity of the aluminum complex clearly changed in response to a Lewis base. Quantum chemical calculations suggest that these element‐dependent optical properties could originate from the difference in the electric charges on the central elements. Interestingly, the ligand exchange reactions were observed in the indium complexes together with the changes in the optical properties and controlled by the addition of InCl3 and InMe3. Furthermore, all the complexes showed aggregation‐induced emission enhancement (AIEE) and crystallization‐induced emission enhancement (CIEE) properties. These results lead to proposing a practical strategy for manipulating the optoelectronic properties coupled with the reactivities of complexes by choosing the central elements in the same group.
Construction of Ternary Bismuth‐Based Heterojunction by Using (BiO)2CO3 as Electron Bridge for Highly Efficient Degradation of Phenol
Authors: Shen Huidong , Yang Chunming , Xue Wenwen , Hao Leiduan , Wang Danjun , Fu Feng , Sun Zhenyu
Published: April 2023

Inspired by nature, it has been considered an effective approach to design artificial photosynthetic system by fabricating Z‐scheme photocatalysts to eliminate environmental issues and alleviate the global energy crisis. However, the development of low cost, environment‐friendly, and high‐efficient photocatalysts by utilizing solar energy still confronts huge challenge. Herein, we constructed a Bi2O3/(BiO)2CO3/Bi2MoO6 ternary heterojunction via a facile solvothermal method and calcination approach and used it as a photocatalyst for the degradation of phenol. The optimized Bi2O3/(BiO)2CO3/Bi2MoO6 heterojunction delivers a considerable activity for phenol photodegradation with an impressive removal efficiency of 98.8 % and about total organic carbon (TOC) of 68 % within 180 min under visible‐light irradiation. The excellent photocatalytic activity was ascribed to the formation of a Z‐scheme heterojunction, more importantly, the presence of (BiO)2CO3 as an electron bridge greatly shortens the migration distance of photogenerated electron from ECB of Bi2O3 to EVB of Bi2MoO6, thus prolonging the lifetime of photogenerated electrons, which is verified by trapping experiments, electron spin‐resonance spectroscopy (ESR) results, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This work provides a potential strategy to fabricate highly efficient Bi‐based Z‐scheme photocatalysts with wide application prospects in solar‐to‐fuel conversion and environmental protection.
Defining triple‐negative breast cancer with neuroendocrine differentiation (TNBC‐NED)
Authors: Hacking Sean M , Yakirevich Evgeny , Wang Yihong
Published: April 2023

Primary breast neuroendocrine (NE) neoplasms are uncommon, and definitions harbor controversy. We retrospectively collected 73 triple‐negative breast cancers (TNBC) and evaluated NE biomarker expression along with p53 aberrant staining (which correlates with TP53 gene mutation) and Rb protein loss by immunohistochemistry. In the study cohort, we found 11 (15%) cases of TNBC with neuroendocrine differentiation (TNBC‐NED) showing positivity for one or more NE markers (synaptophysin/chromogranin/insulinoma‐associated protein 1 [INSM1]). We also identified one separate small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Histologic types for these 11 TNBC‐NED cases were as follows: 8 invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) not otherwise specified (NOS), 2 IDC with apocrine features, 1 IDC with solid papillary features. INSM1 had the highest positivity and was seen in all 11 carcinomas. Seven (64%) cases showed p53 aberrant staining, 6 (55%) had Rb protein loss, while 6 (55%) had p53/Rb co‐aberrant staining/protein loss. TNBC‐NED was associated with Rb protein loss (p < 0.001), as well as p53/Rb co‐aberrant staining/protein loss (p < 0.001). In 61 cases negative for NE markers, 37 (61%) showed p53 aberrant staining, while 5 (8%) had Rb protein loss. We also analyzed genomic and transcriptomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) PanCancer Atlas of 171 basal/TNBC patients. Transcriptomic analysis revealed mRNA expression of RB1 to be correlated negatively with SYN1 mRNA expression (p = 0.0400) and INSM1 mRNA expression (p = 0.0106) in this cohort. We would like to highlight the importance of these findings. TNBC‐NED is currently diagnosed as TNBC, and although it overlaps morphologically with TNBC without NED, the unique p53/Rb signature highlights a genetic overlap with NE carcinomas of the breast.
Pediatric DDR inhibitor combinations: Are WEE1 there yet?
Authors: Slotkin Emily K. , Ortiz Michael V. , Glade Bender Julia L.
Published: April 2023

A phase 2 study of the WEE1 inhibitor adavosertib in combination with irinotecan in children demonstrates an intriguing positive signal of efficacy in neuroblastoma, a pediatric tumor characterized by replication stress. Further pediatric development of adavosertib and related compounds targeting DNA damage response will be challenged by appropriate patient selection, fit‐for‐filing trial design, and ongoing access to agents, likely to be predicated on success in adult malignancy.
Pediatric phase 2 trial of a WEE1 inhibitor, adavosertib (AZD1775), and irinotecan for relapsed neuroblastoma, medulloblastoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Cole Kristina A. , Ijaz Heba , Surrey Lea F. , Santi Mariarita , Liu Xiaowei , Minard Charles G. , Maris John M. , Voss Stephan , Reid Joel M. , Fox Elizabeth , Weigel Brenda J.
Published: April 2023

Background

Inhibition of the WEE1 kinase by adavosertib (AZD1775) potentiates replicative stress from genomic instability or chemotherapy. This study reports the pediatric solid tumor phase 2 results of the ADVL1312 trial combining irinotecan and adavosertib.

Methods

Pediatric patients with recurrent neuroblastoma (part B), medulloblastoma/central nervous system embryonal tumors (part C), or rhabdomyosarcoma (part D) were treated with irinotecan and adavosertib orally for 5 days every 21 days. The combination was considered effective if there were at least three of 20 responses in parts B and D or six of 19 responses in part C. Tumor tissue was analyzed for alternative lengthening of telomeres and ATRX. Patient's prior tumor genomic analyses were provided.

Results

The 20 patients with neuroblastoma (part B) had a median of three prior regimens and 95% had a history of prior irinotecan. There were three objective responses (9, 11, and 18 cycles) meeting the protocol defined efficacy end point. Two of the three patients with objective responses had tumors with alternative lengthening of telomeres. One patient with pineoblastoma had a partial response (11 cycles), but parts C and D did not meet the protocol defined efficacy end point. The combination was well tolerated and there were no dose limiting toxicities at cycle 1 or beyond in any parts of ADVL1312 at the recommended phase 2 dose.

Conclusion

This is first phase 2 clinical trial of adavosertib in pediatrics and the first with irinotecan. The combination may be of sufficient activity to consider further study of adavosertib in neuroblastoma.
Water Purification by 2‐Dimensional Dodecagonal Nitride and Graphenylene via First Principles Calculations
Authors: Suzuki Hajime , Takahashi Keisuke
Published: April 2023

2 dimensional (2D) dodecagonal boron nitride (D_BN) and graphenylene are being investigated to understand their potential applications in water purification. First principle calculations are performed to evaluate the water purification properties of D_BN and graphenylene. It is found that Na+exothermically adsorbs on pores in D_BN, where the transition state energy via pores is calculated to be 0.03 eV. This indicates that Na+can pass through D_BN pores more selectively than water molecules and other ions. In contrast, in the case of graphenylene, Na+is repelled, and H2O exothermically adsorbs on pores, where the transition state energy via pores is calculated to be 1.00 eV. Therefore, this demonstrates that D_BN exhibits an excellent potential for ion‐sieving membranes, while graphenylene exhibits an excellent potential for reverse osmosis membranes. Consequently, this study provides valuable insights into the potential use of D_BN and graphenylene in water purification applications.
Simulating the dynamics of dispersal and dispersal ability in fragmented populations with mate‐finding Allee effects
Authors: Schauf Andrew J. , Jones Matthew F. , Oh Poong
Published: April 2023

We consider the spatial propagation and genetic evolution of model populations comprising multiple subpopulations, each distinguished by its own characteristic dispersal rate. Mate finding is modeled in accord with the assumption that reproduction is based on random encounters between pairs of individuals, so that the frequency of interbreeding between two subpopulations is proportional to the product of local population densities of each. The resulting nonlinear growth term produces an Allee effect, whereby reproduction rates are lower in sparsely populated areas; the distribution of dispersal rates that evolves is then highly dependent upon the population's initial spatial distribution. In a series of numerical test cases, we consider how these dynamics affect lattice‐like arrangements of population fragments, and investigate how a population's initial fragmentation determines the dispersal rates that evolve as a habitat is colonized. First, we consider a case where initial population fragments coincide with habitat islands, within which death rates differ from those that apply outside; the presence of inhospitable exterior regions exaggerates Allee effect‐driven reductions in dispersal ability. We then examine how greater distances separating adjacent population fragments lead to more severe reductions in dispersal ability. For populations of a fixed initial magnitude, fragmentation into smaller, denser patches leads not only to greater losses of dispersal ability, but also helps ensure the population's long‐term persistence, emphasizing the trade‐offs between the benefits and risks of rapid dispersal under Allee effects. Next, simulations of well‐established populations disrupted by localized depopulation events illustrate how mate‐finding Allee effects and spatial heterogeneity can drive a population's dispersal ability to evolve either downward or upward depending on conditions, highlighting a qualitative distinction between population fragmentation and habitat heterogeneity. A final test case compares populations that are fragmented across multiple scales, demonstrating how differences in the relative scales of micro‐ and macro‐level fragmentation can lead to qualitatively different evolutionary outcomes.
Neopolyploidy causes increased nutrient requirements and a shift in plant growth strategy inHeucheracylindrica
Authors: Anneberg Thomas J. , Segraves Kari A.
Published: April 2023

Functional traits fall along a continuum from resource conservative to acquisitive and are powerful predictors of the ecological settings necessary for a species to persist and establish. As a consequence, a major problem that functional trait analysis could address is understanding the ecological contexts necessary for the persistence of polyploid plants, because early generation polyploids, or “neopolyploids,” are at a high extinction risk. Because neopolyploidy could increase nutrient limitation, growth strategies should shift to accommodate the increased need for resources, but this prediction is untested. To address this gap, we compared the functional trait responses of diploids, synthetic neotetraploids, and naturally occurring tetraploids ofHeuchera cylindrica, an herbaceous perennial plant, to nutrient manipulations in a greenhouse experiment. We found strong support for the hypothesis that neotetraploidy increases nutrient requirements, as evidenced by reduced productivity and increased tissue concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in neotetraploids. We also found that the repeated formation of independent origins of neotetraploidy led to differing responses to nutrient supply, but neotetraploidy generally shifted functional traits to be more resource acquisitive and inefficient. Taken together, our results suggest that shifts in functional trait responses may constrain the ability of neopolyploids to establish in nutrient‐poor habitats.
Seismic assessment of free‐standing artifacts: Full‐scale tests on large shake table
Authors: Berto Luisa , Di Sarno Luigi , Fragiadakis Michalis , Rocca Irene , Saetta Anna
Published: April 2023

Recent severe earthquakes highlighted the high vulnerability of artistic assets. Thus, the seismic assessment and formulation of preservation strategies of artifacts are key challenges of modern earthquake engineering, which require theoretical and experimental investigations. The present paper discusses the outcomes from large scale shake table tests carried out on full‐scale free‐standing artifacts. The study is also aimed at evaluating the reliability of existing simplified formulations to predict the rocking motion activation. Emphasis is on prototypes of marble busts with solid and hollow pedestals with different geometries. Comprehensive tests were performed within “Seismic Resilience of Museum Contents” (SEREME) project, which was recently funded by H2020 Framework Programme – Seismology and Earthquake Engineering Research Infrastructure Alliance for Europe (SERA). Uniaxial and biaxial earthquake natural records with different amplitudes and frequency contents were considered to assess the rocking motion of the sample specimens. Response parameters such as uplift, horizontal and vertical accelerations, angular velocity were measured to assess the rocking response of the sample freestanding busts and pedestals. Coefficients of amplification (CAF) of acceleration were also computed. The value of CAF showed that for solid pedestals they were not significantly influenced by peak ground acceleration (PGA) and earthquake type. Conversely, hollow pedestals, which were characterized by larger values of CAF than solid counterparts, ranging between 1 and 7, were affected by PGA and earthquake characteristics. Finally, the outcomes of the presented shake table tests showed that uplifts and angular velocity are effective measures for assessing rocking occurrence of tested artifacts.
Effects of liposoluble components of highland barley spent grains on physiological indexes, intestinal microorganisms, and the liver transcriptome in mice fed a high‐fat diet
Authors: Zhang Jiali , Luo Yihao , Feng Shengbao , Sun Wancheng , Li Shanwen , Kong Lingwu
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the active ingredients of barley lees on the physiological indexes, intestinal flora, and liver transcriptome of mice fed a high‐fat diet. Twenty‐four male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into 4 groups and fed the experimental diets for 5 weeks. The results showed that the fat‐soluble components of distillers' grains significantly reduced body weight, abdominal fat, perirenal fat, blood glucose, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol in the high‐fat diet‐fed mice (p < .05), significantly decreased alanine aminotransferase and malondialdehyde levels, and significantly increased total superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione and glutathione peroxidase levels (p < .05). At the phylum level, lipid‐soluble components significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes and decreased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. At the genus level, the relative abundances of Bacteroidetes and Clostridium were increased. Transcriptomic analysis showed that lipid‐soluble components of spent grains reduced the mRNA expression of ANGPTL8, CD36, PLTP, and SOAT1 and increased the mRNA expression of CYP7A1 and ABCA1 in the cholesterol metabolism pathway, promoted the transport of cholesterol, and inhibited the absorption of cholesterol, which can decrease cholesterol levels by speeding up the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids.
Effect of different extraction methods on antioxidant properties and encapsulation efficiency of anthocyanin of pomegranate peel
Authors: Zahed Niloofar , Esmaeilzadeh Kenari Reza , Farahmandfar Reza
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to measure the efficiency, total anthocyanin content (TAC), and total phenol content (TPC) of pomegranate peel powder (PPP) extract from different extractions. Also, the characteristics of the nanoencapsulated extracts with maltodextrin (MD)/Lepidium perfoliatum (Qodume Shahri) seed gum were investigated. The highest and lowest extraction efficiency was related to solvent ethanol–water extraction (SEWE) (76.35%) and solvent ethanol extraction (SEE) (25.73%), respectively. Extracts obtained from microwave extraction (ME) and ultrasound extraction (UE) methods had the highest and lowest values of TAC (4.00–0.35) (mg C3G/g PPP) and TPC (702.13–232.58) (mg GAE/100 g sample), respectively. Peak 3213 in FT‐IR indicates the O–H bond, which showed the highest content of phenolic compounds in the extract obtained from ME compared with SEE, SEWE, and UE. The nanoencapsulated extracts from SEE, SEE, and UE had the lowest particle size of peak 1, particle distribution in peak 1, and average particle size distribution compared with other extractions, respectively. The highest encapsulation efficiency of anthocyanin (EEA) and encapsulation efficiency of phenol (EEP) were related to UE (96.15%) and SEWE (86.57%), respectively. The EEP and EEA of SEE were not significantly different from ME and SEWE, respectively. On the other hand, the type and amount of extractive compounds in the extract have a great impact on the efficiency of nanoencapsulation and the average size distribution of nanoencapsulated particles. As a result, PPP extract is rich in antioxidant compounds, which can be determined by carefully examining the appropriate method of extraction and preservation of the extracted compounds.
Physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant stability of spray‐dried soy peptide fractions
Authors: Akbarbaglu Zahra , Tamjidi Fardin , Sarabandi Khashayar , Ayaseh Ali
Published: April 2023

The direct addition of health‐promoting peptides to food products is limited due to their physicochemical instability and bitter taste as well as their bio‐functionality may be influenced by MW. In this study, SPI hydrolysate (SPIH) was Alcalase‐prepared, size‐fractionated (<10, 10–30, and 30–100 kD), and the amino acid composition of peptide fractions determined. The physicochemical properties, morphology, and antioxidant stability of the fractions were also investigated after spray‐drying encapsulation in maltodextrin‐WPC carrier. The two low MW peptide fractions (especially, PF < 10) were more active than intact SPI, SPIH, and high MW peptide fraction in scavenging free radicals and chelating transition metal ions. As compared to the particles containing SPIH, those containing the smallest peptide fraction (PF < 10) had higher solubility and hygroscopicity, lower production yield and wettability, and more wrinkles, indentations and surface roughness. The highest antioxidant stability during spray‐drying was observed for the two low MW peptide fractions, which examined by scavenging of free radicals of DPPH (88%), ABTS (97%), OH (93%) and NO (80%), chelating of iron (88%) and copper (87–90%) ions, reducing power (93%), and total antioxidant activity (90%). This finding reflects more structural and biological stability of the low MW fractions to shear stress and dehydration during spray‐drying, as compared with SPIH. The spray‐drying encapsulated soy peptide fractions may be used as nutraceuticals for the development of functional foods.
Optimization of sonication time, edible coating concentration, and osmotic solution °Brix for the dehydration process of quince slices using response surface methodology
Authors: Salehi Fakhreddin , Goharpour Kimia , Razavi Kamran Helia
Published: April 2023

The goal of this work was to examine the effects of sonication time, edible coating concentration (with guar gum), and °Brix (sucrose solution) on the osmotic dehydration (OD) parameters (mass reduction, water loss, soluble solids gain, and rehydration ratio) and the appearance properties (color indices and surface area) of quince slices using a response surface methodology (RSM) approach based on the central composite design (CCD), for the optimization of the process. The process parameters, sonication treatment time (5–10 min; 40 kHz and 150 W), edible coating concentration using guar gum (0.05%–0.15%, w/w), and osmotic concentration using sucrose solution (20%–50%, w/w), were investigated and optimized for OD of quince slices. After each OD process, the quince slices were dehydrated in an oven at 70°C for 240 min. Results demonstrated a good correlation between empirical data with the linear model. Using the optimization method, optimum input operating conditions were determined to be a sonication time of 5 min, guar gum concentration of 0.05%, and sucrose concentration of 37.19°Brix. At this optimum point, the OD process of quince slices reached the optimal mass reduction (17.74%), water loss (25.77%), soluble solids gain (8.03%), rehydration ratio (206.19%), lightness (77.6), redness (0.60), yellowness (34.84), total color change (ΔE) (8.92), and area changes (7.59%).
Guidance on the use of complex systems models for economic evaluations of public health interventions
Authors: Breeze Penny R. , Squires Hazel , Ennis Kate , Meier Petra , Hayes Kate , Lomax Nik , Shiell Alan , Kee Frank , de Vocht Frank , O’Flaherty Martin , Gilbert Nigel , Purshouse Robin , Robinson Stewart , Dodd Peter J , Strong Mark , Paisley Suzy , Smith Richard , Briggs Andrew , Shahab Lion , Occhipinti Jo‐An , Lawson Kenny , Bayley Thomas , Smith Robert , Boyd Jennifer , Kadirkamanathan Visakan , Cookson Richard , Hernandez‐Alava Monica , Jackson Christopher H. , Karapici Amanda , Sassi Franco , Scarborough Peter , Siebert Uwe , Silverman Eric , Vale Luke , Walsh Cathal , Brennan Alan
Published: April 2023

To help health economic modelers respond to demands for greater use of complex systems models in public health. To propose identifiable features of such models and support researchers to plan public health modeling projects using these models. A working group of experts in complex systems modeling and economic evaluation was brought together to develop and jointly write guidance for the use of complex systems models for health economic analysis. The content of workshops was informed by a scoping review. A public health complex systems model for economic evaluation is defined as a quantitative, dynamic, non‐linear model that incorporates feedback and interactions among model elements, in order to capture emergent outcomes and estimate health, economic and potentially other consequences to inform public policies. The guidance covers: when complex systems modeling is needed; principles for designing a complex systems model; and how to choose an appropriate modeling technique. This paper provides a definition to identify and characterize complex systems models for economic evaluations and proposes guidance on key aspects of the process for health economics analysis. This document will support the development of complex systems models, with impact on public health systems policy and decision making.
Double trouble: Synchronous and metachronous primaries confound ctHPVDNA monitoring
Authors: Naegele Saskia , Efthymiou Vasileios , Hirayama Shun , Zhao Brian Y. , Das Dipon , Chan Annie W. , Richmon Jeremy D. , Iafrate A. John , Faden Daniel L.
Published: April 2023

Background

Human papillomavirus‐associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV + HNSCC) occurs in the oropharynx (HPV + OPSCC), sinonasal cavity (HPV + SNSCC), and nasopharynx (HPV + NPC). Circulating tumor HPV DNA (ctHPVDNA) is an accurate tool for diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and recurrence detection. An emerging challenge with ctHPVDNA is that ~7.4% of HPV + HNSCC patients develop synchronous or metachronous HPV+ primaries, which could confound ctHPVDNA monitoring.

Methods

We describe a 65‐year‐old patient with T2N1M0 HPV16 + OPSCC and a 55‐year‐old patient with T2N2M0 HPV16 + OPSCC. Both patients were enrolled in our prospective observational ctHPVDNA study with longitudinal blood collections throughout treatment. Both patients developed multiple HPV+ primaries.

Results

Detailed discussion of the patients' treatment courses, the subsequent diagnoses of their second HPV+ primaries, and their ctHPVDNA monitoring is presented.

Conclusions

As ctHPVDNA use becomes more prevalent, it is important to recognize that an increase in ctHPVDNA can come not only from the primary tumor or metastatic clones, but also from synchronous or metachronous second primaries.
Polluted air evokes nostalgic reverie: A preliminary investigation in China
Authors: Xiang Peng , Xu Fuming
Published: April 2023

Air pollution is related to a variety of psychological distresses (e.g., insecurity), and such distresses may in turn evoke nostalgia as a coping response. Three studies with complementary methodologies were conducted to examine the potential relationship between air pollution and nostalgia in China. Drawing on panel data from 2011 to 2018 covering 31 provincial regions, Study 1 indicated that air pollution positively predicted nostalgia. Study 2 found that air‐polluted days were correlated with elevated nostalgia during the 212‐day study period. Study 3 further demonstrated that compared with the control condition, participants in the experimentally induced air pollution condition reported more nostalgia, and insecurity mediated this effect. Collectively, our findings provide preliminary evidence that air pollution is positively associated with nostalgia. The implications and limitations of this work were discussed.
Comparison of the impacts of dermoscopy image augmentation methods on skin cancer classification and a new augmentation method with wavelet packets
Authors: Goceri Evgin
Published: April 2023

This work aims to determine the most suitable technique for dermoscopy image augmentation to improve the performance of lesion classifications. Also, a new augmentation technique based on wavelet packet transformations has been developed. The contribution of this work is five‐fold. First, a comprehensive review of the methods used for dermoscopy image augmentation has been presented. Second, a new augmentation method has been developed. Third, the augmentation methods have been implemented with the same images for meaningful comparisons. Fourth, three network architectures have been implemented to see the effects of the augmented images obtained from each augmentation method on classifications. Fifth, the results of the same classifier trained separately using expanded data sets have been compared with five different metrics. The proposed augmentation method increases the classification accuracy by at least 4.77% compared with the accuracy values obtained from the same classifier with other augmentation methods.
Shifting mediates gendered racial microaggressions and perceived racism among Asian American women
Authors: Gamst Glenn , Ma‐Kellams Christine , Meyers Lawrence S. , Arellano‐Morales Leticia
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Microaggressive attacks on Asian American women increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The present study tested whether Asian American women's shifting, a coping strategy employed by some women of color to alter their self‐presentation in response to perceived racism, mediated the association between gendered racial microaggressions and self‐perceived subtle and blatant racism.

Methods

A convenience sample of 253 Asian American adult women completed the gendered racial microaggressions scale for Asian American women (GRMSAAW), the Asian American women's shifting scale (AsAWSS), and the subtle and blatant racism scale for Asian American college students (SABR‐A2).

Results

Results from a structural equation model indicated a partial mediation effect; experiences with increased gendered racial microaggressions were associated with greater levels of shifting, which in turn, were associated with greater perceived subtle and blatant racism.

Discussion

These data extend our understanding of the shifting coping mechanism used by some Asian American women. Implications for clinical practice and future research are also discussed.