bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of the Execution Time of Down Tapping Allowing a Good Performance of Agrophysiological Parameters in Reverse Tapping of Fast Metabolizing Rubber Clones PB 260 and IRCA 18
Authors: Perpétue Moro Affia , Pulchérie Kouakou N’guessan Kan , Olivier Atsin Guy Jöel , Moussa Diarassouba , Irénée Lehi Malydie , Antoine Koffi , Hilaire Kouakou Tanoh , Samuel Obouayeba
Published: June 2022

The classic latex harvesting system consists of top-down tapping for nine years before being immediately followed by reverse tapping. This period is often considered too long by the farmers. To address this concern, a study was conducted to determine the best period for down tapping to ensure good performance of agrophysiological parameters in reverse tapping of fast metabolising rubber clones. For this purpose, the PB 260 and IRCA 18 clones were used as plant material in Divo and Daoukro respectively, where the experiments were conducted. Five time frames for down-bleeding (5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 years = control) and two concentrations of ethephon (ET) stimulating paste (2.5 and 5% ET), except for the control which is stimulated only at 5% ET, were tested. The experimental design was a Fisher block design with 9 treatments and 4 replicates. Rubber productivity results (5262 ± 205 and 4951 ± 351 kg.ha-1.yr-1) showed that reverse tapping of these metabolically active clones preceded by 5 and/or 6 years of down tapping was the best (3723 ± 29 kg.ha-1.yr-1 ; control). Rubber production and average annual increment from these tapping periods (4.00 ± 0.42 and 3.60 ± 0.00 cm.yr-1 ; control) were the highest. Productivity gains were 41% for reverse tapping at 6 years stimulated at 5%. The dry notch rate was relatively low (3.30% LEM and 0% dry trees). The physiological profile was generally good. These results indicate that downward bleeding for 5 and/or 6 years allows these clones to express their best potential in reverse bleeding. These results are satisfactory and respond exactly to the concerns of the farmers.
The Role of Nerve Fibers in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment of Solid Tumors
Authors: Hernandez Sharia , Serrano Alejandra G. , Solis Soto Luisa M.
Published: June 2022

The importance of neurons and nerve fibers in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors is now acknowledged after being unexplored for a long time; this is possible due to the development of new technologies that allow in situ characterization of the TME. Recent studies have shown that the density and types of nerves that innervate tumors can predict a patient's clinical outcome and drive several processes of tumor biology. Nowadays, several efforts in cancer research and neuroscience are taking place to elucidate the mechanisms that drive tumor‐associated innervation and nerve‐tumor and nerve‐immune interaction. Assessment of neurons and nerves within the context of the TME can be performed in situ, in tumor tissue, using several pathology‐based strategies that utilize histochemical and immunohistochemistry principles, hi‐plex technologies, and computational pathology approaches to identify measurable histopathological characteristics of nerves. These features include the number and type of tumor associated nerves, topographical location and microenvironment of neural invasion of malignant cells, and investigation of neuro‐related biomarker expression in nerves, tumor cells, and cells of the TME. A deeper understanding of these complex interactions and the impact of nerves in tumor biology will guide the design of better strategies for targeted therapy in clinical trials.
Process Scale‐Up of an Energy‐Efficient Membrane Solvent Extraction Process for Rare Earth Recycling from Electronic Wastes
Authors: Islam Syed Z. , Wagh Priyesh , Jenkins James Eli , Zarzana Christopher , Foster Mac , Bhave Ramesh
Published: June 2022

This study reports the process scale‐up and long‐term performance of an energy‐efficient and cost‐effective membrane solvent extraction (MSX) process for separation and recovery of high purity rare earth oxides (REOs) from scrap permanent magnets (SPMs). The rare earth elements (REEs), including dysprosium, neodymium, and praseodymium, are recovered from SPMs using a neutral extractant, tetraoctyl diglycolamide (TODGA) embedded in a microporous polypropylene hollow fiber membrane module. The MSX process performance is demonstrated with bench scale module with membrane surface area of 1.4 m2 to industrial scale modules with membrane surface area of up to 20 m2 to enable the processing of up to 1 ton month−1 of SPMs. The purity and the yield of the recovered REOs are >99.5 wt% and >95%, respectively. The average extraction rate of REOs is >10 g m−2 hr−1. A skid of MSX system is assembled with a membrane area of 40 m2. The MSX skid successfully recovers REOs with a capacity of 300 kg REOs/month. Finally, it is determined that the organic phase containing the extractant maintains its performance up to 250 h. The results suggest that the MSX process is an economically viable and environmentally friendly process for separation and recovery of REOs from electronic wastes.
Recent Research Progress of Ferrite Multielement Microwave Absorbing Composites
Authors: Zhou Yao , Chen Lvyun , Jian Mulin , Liu Yuanjun
Published: June 2022

With the extensive application of electrical and wireless equipment, several electromagnetic pollution‐related issues have emerged. Therefore, the manufacturing of absorbing materials has become important to electromagnetic pollution. Ferrite is a common absorbing material; its single absorbing mechanism and narrow absorbing frequency band resist the wider usage as an ideal absorbing material. Adding different materials to ferrite has become a popular way to enhance its microwave absorption properties. Herein, the recent research on ferrite multicomponent microwave absorbing composites is summarized. For ferrite binary composite absorbing materials, the research progress of ferrite and graphene, carbon nanotubes, carbon fiber and other carbon materials, ferrite and polypyrrole, polyaniline and other polymer materials, and ferrite and MXene composites is introduced. In addition, the advancement of ferrite ternary absorbent materials research is also discussed. The growing development trend of ferrite composite absorbing materials is finally summed up, and the prospects of fabricating the “thin, light, wide, and strong” ferrite absorbing materials are put forward.
Continuous Nanoparticle Patterning Strategy in Layer‐Structured Nanocomposite Fibers
Authors: Xu Weiheng , Franklin Rahul , Ravichandran Dharneedar , Bawareth Mohammed , Jambhulkar Sayli , Zhu Yuxiang , Kakarla Mounika , Ejaz Faizan , Kwon Beomjin , Hassan Mohammad K. , Al‐Ejji Maryam , Asadi Amir , Chawla Nikhilesh , Song Kenan
Published: June 2022

Anisotropic polymer/nanoparticle composites display unique mechanical, thermal, electrical, and optical properties depending on confirmation and configuration control of the composing elements. Processes, such as vapor deposition, ice‐templating, nanoparticle self‐assembly, additive manufacturing, or layer‐by‐layer casting, are explored to design and control nanoparticle microstructures with desired anisotropy or isotropy. However, limited attempts are made toward nanoparticle patterning during continuous fiber spinning due to the thin‐diameter cross section and 1D features. Thus, this research focuses on a new patterning technique to form ordered nanoparticle assembly in layered composite fibers. As a result, distinct layers can be retained with innovative tool design, unique material combinations, and precise rheology control during fiber spinning. The layer multiplying‐enabled nanoparticle patterning is demonstrated in a few material systems, including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)–boron nitride (BN)/PVA, polyacrylonitrile (PAN)–aluminum (Al)/PAN, and PVA–BN/graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)/PVA systems. This approach demonstrates an unprecedentedly reported fiber manufacturing platform for well‐managed layer dimensions and nanoparticle manipulations with directional thermal and electrical properties that can be utilized in broad applications, including structural supports, heat exchangers, electrical conductors, sensors, actuators, and soft robotics.
Noninvasive Stimulation of Peripheral Nerves using Temporally‐Interfering Electrical Fields
Authors: Botzanowski Boris , Donahue Mary J. , Ejneby Malin Silverå , Gallina Alessandro L. , Ngom Ibrahima , Missey Florian , Acerbo Emma , Byun Donghak , Carron Romain , Cassarà Antonino M. , Neufeld Esra , Jirsa Viktor , Olofsson Peder S. , Głowacki Eric Daniel , Williamson Adam
Published: June 2022

Electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves is a cornerstone of bioelectronic medicine. Effective ways to accomplish peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) noninvasively without surgically implanted devices are enabling for fundamental research and clinical translation. Here, it is demonstrated how relatively high‐frequency sine‐wave carriers (3 kHz) emitted by two pairs of cutaneous electrodes can temporally interfere at deep peripheral nerve targets. The effective stimulation frequency is equal to the offset frequency (0.5 – 4 Hz) between the two carriers. This principle of temporal interference nerve stimulation (TINS) in vivo using the murine sciatic nerve model is validated. Effective actuation is delivered at significantly lower current amplitudes than standard transcutaneous electrical stimulation. Further, how flexible and conformable on‐skin multielectrode arrays can facilitate precise alignment of TINS onto a nerve is demonstrated. This method is simple, relying on the repurposing of existing clinically‐approved hardware. TINS opens the possibility of precise noninvasive stimulation with depth and efficiency previously impossible with transcutaneous techniques.
Construction of Rhodamine‐Based AIE Photosensitizer Hydrogel with Clinical Potential for Selective Ablation of Drug‐Resistant Gram‐Positive Bacteria In Vivo
Authors: Zeng Shuang , Wang Zuokai , Chen Chen , Liu Xiaosheng , Wang Yu , Chen Qixian , Wang Jingyun , Li Haidong , Peng Xiaojun , Yoon Juyoung
Published: June 2022

The emergence of powerful antibiotic‐resistant bacteria caused by the abuse of antibiotics has become a public health problem. Photodynamic antibacterial therapy is regarded as an innovative and promising antibacterial approach due to its minor side effects and lack of drug resistance. Nevertheless, few photosensitizers (PSs) are reported to have near‐infrared (NIR) emission, the ability to rapidly discriminate bacteria, and high photodynamic antibacterial efficiency. In this study, it is reported for the first time that a water‐soluble NIR fluorescence emission rhodamine‐based photosensitizer with aggregation‐inducing emission (AIE) effects, referred to as CS‐2I, can efficiently identify and kill Gram‐positive bacteria. In a fluorescence imaging experiment with blended bacteria, CS‐2I can selectively target Gram‐positive bacteria and specifically label Gram‐positive bacteria with high efficiency after only 5 min of incubation. Furthermore, CS‐2I achieves complete inhibition of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at an extremely low concentration (0.5 µm) and light dosage (6 J cm−2). Remarkably, CS‐2I is mixed with Carbomer 940 to prepare an antibacterial hydrogel dressing (CS‐2I@gel), and in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that CS‐2I@gel provides extraordinary performance in photodynamic antibacterial therapy. Hence, this study provides a new strategy and blueprint for the future design of antibacterial materials.
Site‐Selective Bipolar Electrodeposition of Gold Clusters on Graphene Oxide Microsheets at a 3D Air|Liquid Interface
Authors: Kankla Pacharapon , Luksirikul Patraporn , Garrigue Patrick , Goudeau Bertrand , Bouffier Laurent , Kuhn Alexander
Published: June 2022

An innovative wireless approach is proposed for asymmetric site‐selective deposition of gold clusters on graphene oxide microsheets by performing bipolar electrochemistry at the 3D air|liquid interface present in an assembly of bubbles constituting a foam. Exfoliated graphene oxide (EGO) microsheets are introduced into a bipolar electrochemical cell, which is filled with the foam composed of a nonionic surfactant, water, and a gold metal precursor. The EGO microparticles are located exclusively at the air|liquid interface, providing a unique 2D reaction space for bipolar electrodeposition, deployed in the 3D volume of the reactor. The application of an external electric field on such a medium enables a focalization of the polarization potential gradient and simultaneously restricts the mobility of the EGO particles, leading to their preferential in‐plane orientation with respect to the electric field lines, greatly facilitating their successful site selective modification with gold clusters.
Reliable Paper Surface Treatments for the Development of Inkjet‐Printed Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Zea Miguel , Moya Ana , Villa Rosa , Gabriel Gemma
Published: June 2022

The need for disposable, simpler, and accurate paper‐based analytical devices represents an open research field that is focused on simpler fabrication methods. To achieve this, four feasible methodologies are proposed for the direct printing of an electrochemical sensor on a biodegradable paper substrate using commercial gold and silver inks, which are compatible with inkjet printing technology. Four substrate treatment strategies are evaluated: printing the active elements directly on the hydrophilic bare paper, a hydrophobic gas‐phase coating over all the substrate, a hydrophobic silane ink that is selectively printed on the paper, and a hydrophobic coating that is selectively printed and blocks the surface porosity. Thanks to the ability of the inks to conform the cellulose fibers, the resulting working electrodes tune their electrochemical active area, showing higher active electrochemical areas when the roughness is increased. The most planar consideration is achieved blocking the paper porosity with SU‐8 and the direct printing on bare paper maximizes the electrochemical response with the smallest geometric area, with current values 2.7‐times higher than the theoretical one. Although all methods allow a functional electrochemical sensor, the highest reproducible results are accomplished with the blocked paper, consequently allowing a higher controlled and robust manufacturing approach.
BMP Gene‐Immobilization to Dental Implants Enhances Bone Regeneration
Authors: Maekawa Shogo , Cho Young‐Dan , Kauffmann Frederic , Yao Yao , Sugai James V. , Zhong Xiaoyang , Schmiedeler Caroline , Kinra Nitin , Moy Alyssa , Larsson Lena , Lahann Joerg , Giannobile William V.
Published: June 2022

For individuals who have experienced tooth loss, dental implants are an important treatment option for oral reconstruction. For these patients, alveolar bone augmentation and acceleration of osseointegration optimize implant stability. Traditional oral surgery often requires invasive procedures, which can result in prolonged treatment time and associated morbidity. It has been previously shown that chemical vapor deposition (CVD) polymerization of functionalized [2.2]paracyclophanes can be used to anchor gene encoding vectors onto biomaterial surfaces and local delivery of a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐encoding vector can increase alveolar bone volume and density in vivo. This study is the first to combine the use of CVD technology and BMP gene delivery on titanium for the promotion of bone regeneration and bone to implant contact in vivo. BMP‐7 tethered to titanium surface enhances osteoblast cell differentiation and alkaline phosphatase activity in vitro and increases alveolar bone regeneration and % bone to implant contact similar to using high doses of exogenously applied BMP‐7 in vivo. The use of this innovative gene delivery strategy on implant surfaces offers an alternative treatment option for targeted alveolar bone reconstruction.
Bioinspired Polymeric Coating with Self‐Adhesion, Lubrication, and Drug Release for Synergistic Bacteriostatic and Bactericidal Performance
Authors: Wang Haimang , Yang Yuhe , Zhao Weiwei , Han Ying , Luo Jing , Zhao Xin , Zhang Hongyu
Published: June 2022

A combination of surface lubrication and antibacterial performance is highly imperative for biomedical implants in clinic. In this study, motivated by mussel‐inspired adhesion, articular cartilage superlubrication, and drug‐loading capacity of cyclodextrins, a new copolymer of p(DMA‐MPC‐CD) (namely PDMC) with self‐adhesion, lubrication, and drug loading & release properties is developed for fabricating a versatile platform to construct a synergistic bacteriostatic/bactericidal surface. Specifically, the biomimetic coating is prepared via polydopamine mediated layer‐by‐layer (LBL) self‐assembly method on the surface of titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V), and characterized by quartz crystal microbalance, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and surface wettability to confirm the modification process. The biocompatibility evaluation using L929 cells shows that the coating, even with pre‐loaded bactericide, presents satisfied biocompatibility in vitro. Additionally, the enhanced lubrication and bacterial resistance properties of copolymer‐coated Ti6Al4V (Ti6Al4V@PDMC) are attributed to the tenacious hydration shell that is formed surrounding the zwitterionic phosphorylcholine charges. Furthermore, the bactericidal function of the biomimetic coating is successfully achieved by releasing the pre‐loaded bactericide in a sustained manner, which effectively kills the adhered bacteria on the surface. In summary, the bioinspired surface functionalization strategy developed here may act as a universal and promising method for achieving enhanced lubrication and synergistic bacteriostatic/bactericidal properties in biomedical implants.
Measurements and Modeling of Atomic‐Scale Sidewall Roughness and Losses in Integrated Photonic Devices
Authors: Roberts Samantha , Ji Xingchen , Cardenas Jaime , Corato‐Zanarella Mateus , Lipson Michal
Published: June 2022

Atomic‐level imperfections play an increasingly critical role in nanophotonic device performance. However, it remains challenging to accurately characterize the sidewall roughness with sub‐nanometer resolution and directly correlate this roughness with device performance. A method that allows to measure the sidewall roughness of waveguides made of any material (including dielectrics) using the high resolution of atomic force microscopy is developed. This method is illustrated by measuring state‐of‐the‐art photonic devices made of silicon nitride. The roughness of devices fabricated using both deep ultraviolet (DUV) photo‐lithography and electron‐beam lithography for two different etch processes is compared. To correlate roughness with device performance, a new Payne–Lacey Bending model is described, which adds a correction factor to the widely used Payne–Lacey model so that losses in resonators and waveguides with bends can be accurately predicted given the sidewall roughness, waveguide width and bending radii. Having a better way to measure roughness and use it to predict device performance can allow researchers and engineers to optimize fabrication for state‐of‐the‐art photonics using many materials.
Single‐Photon Emission from Single Microplate MAPbI3 Nanocrystals with Ultranarrow Photoluminescence Linewidths and Exciton Fine Structures
Authors: Yuan Junyang , Zhou Dawei , Zhuang Chen , Zhou Yong , Zhang Chunfeng , Wang Lin , Xiao Min , Wang Xiaoyong
Published: June 2022

Stimulated by the superior performance of organic–inorganic MAPbI3 perovskite films in photovoltaic devices, a lot of research interest is now being devoted to their low‐dimensional nanocrystals (NCs) to extend the optoelectronic functionalities as well as to promote the potential applications in quantum information technologies. Compared to other organic–inorganic and all‐inorganic counterparts that have been intensively studied, the MAPbI3 NCs suffer from the optical and chemical instabilities so that their single‐particle photophysical properties have been largely unexplored up to now. Here, the authors have synthesized single MAPbI3 microplates from a two‐step method and characterize their optical properties mainly at the cryogenic temperature, showing that localized optical emitters are universally present with the quantum feature of single‐photon emission. Photoluminescence (PL) linewidth measured for such a single quantum emitter can be as narrow as ≈200 μeV, as a direct consequence of its embedment inside the microplate with the spectral diffusion effect being greatly suppressed. This has allowed them to resolve the exciton fine structures from some of the studied single quantum emitters, each of which is manifested as a PL doublet with the energy separation of ≈600 μeV and the orthogonally linear polarizations.
Boric Acid‐Activated Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence and Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence for Efficient Solid‐State Photoluminescence Materials
Authors: Wang Donghui , Lu Zhangdi , Qin Xiaoman , Zhang Zhen , Shi Yu‐e , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Wang Zhenguang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2022

The construction of highly luminescent solid‐state materials with long‐lived afterglow through a straightforward method is promising but still a challenging task. Herein, a heat‐treatment strategy is proposed to embed levofloxacin (Lev) in the matrix of boric acid (BA) to produce a complex with a photoluminescence quantum yield of 63.8% and an emission lifetime of 0.74 s (afterglow: >5 s). Detailed investigations suggest that the unique photophysical properties of the complex are attributed to the confinement effect of BA matrix to Lev, which reduces the probability of nonradiative relaxation and activates the radiative decays to result in the promoted emission efficiency. In addition, thermally activated delayed fluorescence is also activated due to the alteration of the π transition of Lev by the formation of boron–carbon bonds. The emission color and lifetime are also modulated through controlling the synthetic conditions, which endow their applications both in light‐emitting diodes and information encryption. Thus, the present results are significant for the construction of solid‐state luminescent materials, including fluorescence and room‐temperature phosphorescence, and also provide a solid and universal theory to clarify their detailed emission profiles.
Ring Closure of Nitroalkylmalonates for the Synthesis of Isoxazolines under the Acylation Conditions
Authors: Antonova Yulia A. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Ioffe Sema L. , Sukhorukov Alexey Yu. , Tabolin Andrey A.
Published: June 2022

Acylation of nitroalkylmalonates was found to yield substituted isoxazoline derivatives. This redox‐neutral transformation has a wide substrate scope and produces target products with yields up to 92%. Various substituents (aryl, alkyl, and ester) at the C3 and C4 positions of the resulting isoxazolines were also tolerated. A quick assembly of the isoxazoline ring starting from nitroalkenes and malonates was successfully developed. Control experiments showed that the intramolecular ring closure is the most likely key mechanistic step. Subsequent transformations into pyrrolidine and furane derivatives demonstrated the synthetic utility of the obtained products.

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Cleavage‐Responsive Biofactory T Cells Suppress Infectious Diseases‐Associated Hypercytokinemia
Authors: Kim Hyelim , Son Boram , Seo Eun U , Kwon Miji , Ahn June Hong , Shin Heungsoo , Song Gyu Yong , Park Eun Ji , Na Dong Hee , Cho Seung‐Woo , Kim Hong Nam , Park Hee Ho , Lee Wonhwa
Published: June 2022

Severe infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), can induce hypercytokinemia and multiple organ failure. In spite of the growing demand for peptide therapeutics against infectious diseases, current small molecule‐based strategies still require frequent administration due to limited half‐life and enzymatic digestion in blood. To overcome this challenge, a strategy to continuously express multi‐level therapeutic peptide drugs on the surface of immune cells, is established. Here, chimeric T cells stably expressing therapeutic peptides are presented for treatment of severe infectious diseases. Using lentiviral system, T cells are engineered to express multi‐level therapeutic peptides with matrix metallopeptidases‐ (MMP‐) and tumor necrosis factor alpha converting enzyme‐ (TACE‐) responsive cleavage sites on the surface. The enzymatic cleavage releases γ‐carboxyglutamic acid of protein C (PC‐Gla) domain and thrombin receptor agonist peptide (TRAP), which activate endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) and protease‐activated receptor‐1 (PAR‐1), respectively. These chimeric T cells prevent vascular damage in tissue‐engineered blood vessel and suppress hypercytokinemia and lung tissue damages in vivo, demonstrating promise for use of engineered T cells against sepsis and other infectious‐related diseases.
Intricacies and Mechanism of p‐Doping Spiro‐MeOTAD Using Cu(TFSI)2
Authors: Hochgesang Adrian , Biberger Simon , Grüne Jeannine , Mohanraj John , Kahle Frank‐Julian , Dyakonov Vladimir , Köhler Anna , Thelakkat Mukundan
Published: June 2022

Copper salts are a popular choice as p‐dopants for organic semiconductors, particularly in N2,N2,N2′,N2′,N7,N7,N7′,N7′‐octakis(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐9,9′‐spirobi[9H‐fluoren]‐2,2′,7,7′‐tetramine (Spiro‐MeOTAD) hole transport material for solar cells. While being exceptionally effective, no scientific consensus about their doping mechanism has been established so far. This study describes the thermodynamic equilibria of involved species in copper(II) bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Cu(TFSI)2) doped, co‐evaporated Spiro‐MeOTAD. A temperature‐independent formation of charge transfer states is found, followed by an endothermic release of free charge carriers. Impedance and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy unravel low activation energies for hole release and hopping transport. As a result, (52.0 ± 6.4)% of the total Cu(TFSI)2 molecules form free, dissociated holes at 10 mol% and room temperature. CuI species arising out of doping are stabilized by formation of a [CuI(TFSI)2]‐ cuprate, inhibiting elemental copper formation. This CuI species presents a potent hole trap reducing their mobility, which can be averted by simple addition of a bathocuproine complexing agent. A nonlinear temperature‐dependent conductivity and mobility that contradicts current charge transport models is observed. This is attributed to a combination of trap‐ and charge transfer state freeze‐out. These insights may be adapted to other metal salts, providing guidelines for designing next‐generation ultra‐high efficiency dopants.
Recent Progress in Carbon Dots‐Based Materials for Electrochemical Energy Storage Toward Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Siwal Samarjeet Singh , Kaur Harjot , Saini Adesh Kumar , Thakur Vijay Kumar
Published: June 2022

Carbon dots (CDs), an emerging category of carbon nanomaterials, have bright destiny in a vast diversity of engineering areas due to their great variety in design, arrangement, and characteristics. Their possible implementations have recently traversed from electrochemical energy storage (EES), fluorescent probing, and catalysis, particularly as materials into the critical elements of the electrochemical system. Herein, the current investigation based upon the preface of CDs in batteries, supercapacitors, hydrogen/oxygen evolution reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, electromagnetic interference shielding, and solar‐assisted energy generation used as electrode materials integrated with an active substance as an auxiliary mechanism is shown. Different aspects conferred upon selected illustrations outline the electrochemical activity, and eventually, current issues and future viewpoints are recollected toward the following optimization method of electrode substances. This review article is anticipated to demand broad attention within active CD materials and encourage the growth of high‐performance EES systems.
Burn and mechanical residue removal methods on production‐life of Kentucky bluegrass
Authors: Holman Johnathon D. , Robertson Jack D. , Johnson‐Maynard Jodi , Painter Kathleen , Assefa Yared
Published: June 2022

Given the importance of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) seed production in the inland Pacific Northwest, USA, and the difficulty to predict and maintain seed yields as production fields age, greater knowledge of the impact of reduced or nonthermal practices on seed yield and stand longevity is necessary. Longer‐term studies (>3 yr) are needed to maintain high bluegrass seed yields, reduce soil erosion, and amortize the expense of stand establishment. The purpose of this study was to measure the impact of residue management practice on seed production throughout the expected 7‐yr life of a bluegrass field. Four residue management treatments—full load burn (FLB), bale then burn (BB), bale then mow then harrow (MEC), and rotation system (SYS) (MEC in Year 1, BB in Year 2, and FLB in Year 3)—were evaluated from 2002–2007. Average seed yields over the entire study period were 774 kg ha–1 in FLB, 742 kg ha–1 in BB, 525 kg ha–1 in MEC, and 600 kg ha–1 in SYS. Nonstanding residue removal was difficult to accomplish using MEC compared with FLB. Reduced‐burn methods (BB and SYS), however, were able to keep this residue level lower than MEC, and therefore yielded more than MEC. Across‐treatment regression suggest that seed yield was negatively influenced by the amount of nonstanding residue in the previous fall (r2 = .64), yet positively influenced by the nitrogen content of standing biomass in the previous fall (r2 = .78). Profitability was highest in BB and FLB. Overall, understanding the factors that relate to stand decline may help growers prolong stand life and increase profitability, while mitigating air quality issues.
Chronic myeloid leukemia: 2022 update on diagnosis, therapy, and monitoring
Authors: Jabbour Elias , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: June 2022

Disease Overview

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm with an incidence of 1–2 cases per 100 000 adults. It accounts for approximately 15% of newly diagnosed cases of leukemia in adults.

Diagnosis

CML is characterized by a balanced genetic translocation, t (9;22) (q34;q11.2), involving a fusion of the Abelson gene (ABL1) from chromosome 9q34 with the breakpoint cluster region (BCR) gene on chromosome 22q11.2. This rearrangement is known as the Philadelphia chromosome. The molecular consequence of this translocation is the generation of a BCR::ABL1 fusion oncogene, which in turn translates into a BCR::ABL1 oncoprotein.

Frontline Therapy

Four tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), imatinib, dasatinib, bosutinib, and nilotinib are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for first‐line treatment of newly diagnosed CML in chronic phase (CML‐CP). Clinical trials with second generation TKIs reported significantly deeper and faster responses but had no impact on survival prolongation, likely because of the availability of effective TKIs salvage therapies for patients who have a cytogenetic relapse with frontline TKI therapy.

Salvage Therapy

For CML post failure on frontline therapy, second‐line options include second and third generation TKIs. Although potent and selective, these TKIs exhibit unique pharmacological profiles and response patterns relative to different patient and disease characteristics, such as patients' comorbidities, disease stage, and BCR::ABL1 mutational status. Patients who develop the T315I “gatekeeper” mutation display resistance to all currently available TKIs except ponatinib, asciminib, and olverembatinib. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation remains an important therapeutic option for patients with CML‐CP and failure (due to resistance) of at least two TKIs, and for all patients in advanced phase disease. Older patients who have a cytogenetic relapse post failure on all TKIs can maintain long‐term survival if they continue a daily most effective/least toxic TKI, with or without the addition of non‐TKI anti‐CML agents (hydroxyurea, omacetaxine, azacitidine, decitabine, cytarabine, busulfan and others).
De novo heterozygous variants in SLC30A7 are a candidate cause for Joubert syndrome
Authors: Penon‐Portmann Monica , Eldomery Mohammad K. , Potocki Lorraine , Marafi Dana , Posey Jennifer E. , Coban‐Akdemir Zeynep , Harel Tamar , Grochowski Christopher M. , Loucks Hailey , Devine Walter Patrick , Van Ziffle Jessica , Doherty Dan , Lupski James R. , Shieh Joseph T.
Published: June 2022

Joubert syndrome (JS), a well‐established ciliopathy, is characterized by the distinctive molar tooth sign on brain MRI, ataxia, and neurodevelopmental features. Other manifestations can include polydactyly, accessory frenula, renal, or liver disease. Here, we report individuals meeting criteria for JS with de novo heterozygous variants in SLC30A7 (Chr1p21.2). The first individual is a female with history of unilateral postaxial polydactyly, classic molar tooth sign on MRI, macrocephaly, ataxia, ocular motor apraxia, neurodevelopmental delay, and precocious puberty. Exome sequencing detected a de novo heterozygous missense variant in SLC30A7: NM_133496.5: c.407 T > C, (p.Val136Ala). The second individual had bilateral postaxial polydactyly, molar tooth sign, macrocephaly, developmental delay, and an extra oral frenulum. A de novo deletion–insertion variant in SLC30A7, c.490_491delinsAG (p.His164Ser) was found. Both de novo variants affect highly conserved residues. Variants were not identified in known Joubert genes for either case. SLC30A7 has not yet been associated with a human phenotype. The SLC30 family of zinc transporters, like SLC30A7, permit cellular efflux of zinc, and although it is expressed in the brain its functions remain unknown. Published data from proteomic studies support SLC30A7 interaction with TCTN3, another protein associated with JS. The potential involvement of such genes in primary cilia suggest a role in Sonic Hedgehog signaling. SLC30A7 is a candidate JS‐associated gene. Future work could be directed toward further characterization of SLC30A7 variants and understanding its function.
Thrombopoietin and collagen in low doses cooperatively induce human platelet activation
Authors: Doi Tomoaki , Hori Takamitsu , Onuma Takashi , Mizutani Daisuke , Ueda Kyohei , Enomoto Yukiko , Matsushima‐Nishiwaki Rie , Tanabe Kumiko , Hioki Tomoyuki , Tokuda Haruhiko , Iwama Toru , Iida Hiroki , Kozawa Osamu , Ogura Shinji
Published: June 2022

Aim

In acute medicine, we occasionally treat life‐threatening conditions such as sepsis and trauma, which cause severe thrombocytopenia. Serum thrombopoietin levels have been reported to increase under the condition of thrombocytopenia related to severity. Collagen is a crucial activator of platelets, and Rho family members, such as Rho/Rho‐kinase and Rac, play roles as active molecules involved in the intracellular signaling pathways in platelet activation. The present study aimed to elucidate the effects of thrombopoietin (TPO) on subthreshold low‐dose collagen‐stimulated human platelets in terms of Rho/Rho‐kinase and Rac.

Methods

Platelet‐rich plasma donated from healthy volunteers was stimulated by the subthreshold low‐dose of collagen after pretreatment with TPO and/or NSC23766, an inhibitor of the Rac‐guanine nucleotide exchange factor interaction, or Y27632, an inhibitor of Rho‐kinase. Platelet aggregation was measured using an aggregometer based on laser‐scattering methods. Proteins involved in intracellular signaling were analyzed using western blotting, and the secretion of platelet‐derived growth factor‐AB from activated platelets was determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Under the existence of TPO, the low dose of collagen remarkably elicited the aggregation and platelet‐derived growth factor‐AB secretion of platelets, which were suppressed by NSC23766 and Y27632. The combination of TPO and collagen considerably induced a transient increase of guanosine triphosphate (GTP)‐binding Rac and GTP‐binding Rho followed by an increase of phosphorylated cofilin, a Rho‐kinase substrate.

Conclusion

These results strongly suggest that TPO and collagen in low doses cooperatively potentiate human platelet activation through both Rac and Rho/Rho‐kinase mediated pathways.
Green composites of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) and sugarcane bagasse fibers plasticized with triethyl citrate: Thermal, mechanical and morphological properties
Authors: Ferrão Victor , Bortoloni Perin Giovanni , Felisberti Maria Isabel
Published: June 2022

In this work, PHBV composites were prepared by melting extrusion using triethyl citrate (TEC) as a biodegradable plasticizer and sugarcane bagasse fibers (SBF) as reinforcement. The plasticizer TEC played a crucial role in the preparation of the formulations by extrusion, reducing the viscosity of the melt and minimizing the thermomechanical degradation of PHBV. Moreover, TEC was an efficient plasticizer for the composites, reducing the glass transition and melting temperatures of PHBV and making the specimens ductile. The increase in the concentration of TEC led to an enlargement of the interlamellar spacing and larger PHBV spherulites without changing the cell parameters. In contrast, the introduction of the SBF elevated the viscosity of the molten during extrusion, leading to thermomechanical degradation of PHBV. The SBF acted as a nucleation agent for the PHBV crystallization and oriented the growth of the PHBV crystals due to the transcrystallization, which contributed to the matrix‐filler adhesion, the increase in the lamellae thickness, and changes in the thermal properties of PHBV. The SBF acted as a reinforcing agent, increasing the tensile properties of the matrix. Therefore, TEC and SBF had antagonistic effects on the properties of the formulations, opening opportunities to tune their properties by varying the composition.
Comparative study on the effects of water pressure on water absorption of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene and polyformaldehyde
Authors: Chen Song , Bao Xiangcai , Wang Zhiheng , Rong Xiangbin , Zhang Xiaohong , Li Chao , Wang Xinyu , Wei Lei
Published: June 2022

The water absorption of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and polyformaldehyde (POM) in different hydrostatic pressure has been investigated by means of high pressure immerse experiments and molecular dynamics simulation. Experiment results showed that water absorption of UHMWPE and POM tended to decrease with the rise of environmental pressure of water within 0 ~ 3 MPa. Water absorption of POM was far greater than UHMWPE under all kinds of hydraulic pressure. When the pressure is 3 MPa, the water absorption of POM is reduced by about 15.2% compared with that under normal pressure, while that of UHMWPE is reduced by about 41.64%. Simulation results showed that water molecules were bonded with UHMWPE molecular chain by means of Van der Waals force, and water molecules were bonded with POM molecular chain by means of Van der Waals force and hydrogen bonds, which provided potent theoretical support for the water absorption properties of UHMWPE and POM.
The challenges of bird conservation on an intermittent karst lake: The interplay between changing water level and agriculture
Authors: Kmecl Primož , Gamser Matej , Ploj Alen , Jančar Tomaž
Published: June 2022

Intermittent karst lakes are important for forming wetland habitats in otherwise dry karstic landscapes. With characteristic water regimes they are unable to retain water owing to their underground drainage system.

Many Dinaric intermittent karst lakes (karst poljes) have gone through severe human disturbances in the past, aimed at fluctuating water levels in karst poljes. These measures had the goal of achieving either permanent dry agricultural land or permanent lakes for various purposes. Usually dams were built for water storage to achieve these goals.

This research aimed to determine the population responses of bird species that are important for conservation, to water level changes on Cerknica Lake (Slovenia), a large Dinaric intermittent karst lake, to inform effective conservation for such systems.

Water level and vegetation were strong drivers of waterbird diversity and abundance, based on analysis using canonical correspondence analysis and boosted regression trees.

Water level was critical for the conservation of important bird species. Water and reed specialists (e.g. water rail Rallus aquaticus) require management of refugia in wetlands to create mosaics of water and reedbeds. The formation of nature reserves, quiet zones and habitat restoration is needed for these specialist species. In these areas, mowing should be limited or not present at all.

Measures dealing with land‐use change and connectivity between habitats, for instance agri‐environmental measures, are more appropriate for rare bird species with wider niche breadths (but still narrower than generalists), e.g. skylark (Alauda arvensis) and linnet (Linaria cannabina).
Contrast‐enhanced micro‐computed tomography of compartment and time‐dependent changes in femoral cartilage and subchondral plate in a murine model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Chan Deva D. , Mashiatulla Maleeha , Li Jun , Ross Ryan D. , Pendyala Meghana , Patwa Amit , Grinstaff Mark W. , Plaas Anna , Sumner D. Rick
Published: June 2022

A lack of understanding of the mechanisms underlying osteoarthritis (OA) progression limits the development of effective long‐term treatments. Quantitatively tracking spatiotemporal patterns of cartilage and bone degeneration is critical for assessment of more appropriately targeted OA therapies. In this study, we use contrast‐enhanced micro‐computed tomography (μCT) to establish a timeline of subchondral plate (SCP) and cartilage changes in the murine femur after destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). We performed DMM or sham surgery in 10–12‐week‐old male C57Bl/6J mice. Femora were imaged using μCT after 0, 2, 4, or 8 weeks. Cartilage‐optimized scans were performed after immersion in contrast agent CA4+. Bone mineral density distribution (BMDD), cartilage attenuation, SCP, and cartilage thickness and volume were measured, including lateral and medial femoral condyle and patellar groove compartments. As early as 2 weeks post‐DMM, cartilage thickness significantly increased and cartilage attenuation, SCP volume, and BMDD mean significantly decreased. Trends in cartilage and SCP metrics within each joint compartment reflected those seen in global measurements, and both BMDD and SCP thickness were consistently greater in the lateral and medial condyles than the patellar groove. Sham surgery also resulted in significant changes to SCP and cartilage metrics, highlighting a potential limitation of using surgical models to study tissue morphology or composition changes during OA progression. Contrast‐enhanced μCT analysis is an effective tool to monitor changes in morphology and composition of cartilage, and when combined with bone‐optimized μCT, can be used to assess the progression of degenerative changes after joint injury.
Mesoscale Mechanism of P‐dopant Defects and Interface Synergy for Phenols Degradation
Authors: Zhang Kaiqi , Song Hongyan , An Zhe , Zhang Jian , Zhu Yanru , Chai Zhigang , Shu Xin , He Jing
Published: June 2022

The semiconductor based photocatalysis has become a hot spot of current research, and the key challenges are the construction of strong functional heterojunction photocatalysts, and insights on the working mechanism involved. In this work, we constructed a NiFe‐ LDHs/P‐TCN heterojunction with P‐dopant defects and interface synergy and elucidated its mesoscale mechanism among different constituent interfaces. The interface photoelectron transfer was detected by PAS, EPR and other methods, and the enhancing mechanism of the defect sites for interface electron transfer and photocatalytic activity was proposed. The interfacial electrons, photoelectric properties and photocatalytic activity are found to be positively correlated. The result is conducive for a better understanding on working mechanism of heterogeneous photocatalysts, which opened a broader research space for the rational design and construction of functional interfaces.
An example of parenchymal renal sparing in the context of complex malformations due to a novel mutation in the PBX1 gene
Authors: Ruscitti Federica , Cerminara Maria , Iascone Maria , Pezzoli Laura , Rosti Giulia , Romano Ferruccio , Ronchetto Patrizia , Martucciello Giuseppe , Buratti Silvia , Buffelli Francesca , Bocciardi Renata , Puliti Aldamaria , Divizia Maria Teresa
Published: June 2022

Introduction

PBX1 encodes the pre‐B cell leukemia factor 1, a Three Amino acid Loop Extension (TALE) transcription factor crucial to regulate basic developmental processes. PBX1 loss‐of‐function variants have been initially described in association with renal malformations in both isolated and syndromic forms.

Case report

Herein, we report a male infant presenting multiple organ malformations (cleidosternal dysostosis, micrognathia, left lung hypoplasia, wide interatrial defect, pulmonary hypertension, total anomalous pulmonary venous return, intestinal malrotation) and carrying the heterozygous de novo c.868C > T (p.Arg290Trp) variant in PBX1. This novel variant affects the highly conserved homeodomain of the protein, leading to a non‐conservative substitution and consequently altering its tridimensional structure and DNA‐binding capacity.

Conclusion

So far, PBX1 has been reported in association with a broad spectrum of renal anomalies. However, given the role of this gene in many different developing processes, whole‐exome sequencing can detect mutations in PBX1 even in patients with different phenotypes, not necessarily involving the renal primordium. This report presents a novel PBX1 variant with a predicted strong deleterious effect. The mutation leads to a non‐conservative substitution in a very highly conserved domain of the protein, thus altering its tertiary structure and DNA‐binding capacity.
Teaching study skills to college students using checklist training
Authors: Kong Sarah T. , Stocco Corey S.
Published: June 2022

Deficits in the study skills of college students can lead to lower academic performance and disqualification. Although behavior analytic research has evaluated strategies for improving student performance in the classroom, no studies have evaluated methods for improving study skills outside of the classroom. We evaluated the effects of a training package that consisted of instructions, written checklists, picture models, and performance feedback using a multiple probe design across skill sets of college students. We taught four college students how to set up their study environment, take notes on readings, and self‐test using their notes from readings. All participants exhibited improvements in targeted study skills during training, and three of four participants achieved mastery within two training sessions per skill set. Acquisition of targeted skill sets corresponded with increased scores on quizzes that assessed learning from the readings. Moreover, participants found the goals and procedures acceptable and the outcomes satisfactory.
Morphology of lignin structures on fiber surfaces after organosolv pretreatment
Authors: Joseph Prajin , Ottesen Vegar , Opedal Mihaela Tanase , Moe Størker T.
Published: June 2022

The redeposition of lignin to the fiber surface after organosolv pretreatment was studied using two different reactor types. Results from the conventional autoclave reactor suggest that redeposition occurs during the cooling down stage. Redeposited particles appeared to be spherical in shape. The size and population density of the particles depends on the concentration of organosolv lignin in the cooking liquor, which is consistent with the hypothesis that reprecipitation of lignin occurs when the system is cooled down. The use of a displacement reactor showed that displacing the spent cooking liquor with fresh cooking liquor helps in reducing the redeposition and the inclusion of a washing stage with fresh cooking liquor reduced the reprecipitation of lignin, particularly on the outer fiber surfaces. Redeposition of lignin was still observed on regions that were less accessible to washing liquid, such as fiber lumens, suggesting that complete prevention of redeposition was not achieved.