bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond Demonstrators—tackling fundamental problems in amplifying nature-based solutions for the post-COVID-19 world
Authors: Schröter Barbara , Hack Jochen , Hüesker Frank , Kuhlicke Christian , Albert Christian
Published: February 2022

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are currently promoted as a panacea for improving human-nature relations. Yet the way of amplifying and mainstreaming NbS beyond scientific demonstrator projects into policy contexts is still bearing shortcomings, in particular in the uncertain futures of a post-COVID-19 world. Successful NbS amplification may be achieved by (1) using multi-scalar action to balance differing interests and reconcile governance levels, (2) providing financial and other institutionalized incentives and strategies for integrated participation processes, (3) using appropriate governance and management scales effectively integrating mediators, (4) using opportunities for transformative change offered by crisis, and (5) learning from worldwide amplification experiences.
The identification and characterization of an oxalyl-CoA synthetase from grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.)
Authors: Goldsmith Moshe , Barad Shiri , Peleg Yoav , Albeck Shira , Dym Orly , Brandis Alexander , Mehlman Tevie , Reich Ziv
Published: February 2022

Kinetic and structural analysis of a novel oxalyl-CoA synthetase isolated from grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.).
Enhancement in catalytic performance of birnessite-type MnO2-supported Pd nanoparticles by the promotional role of reduced graphene oxide for toluene oxidation
Authors: Dong Ning , Ye Qing , Xiao Yang , Zhang Dan , Dai Hongxing
Published: February 2022

We designed and prepared δ-MnO2-supported reduced graphene oxide-promoted Pd nanoparticles (xPd–yrGO/δ-MnO2). Such a catalytic material is promising in the practical application for VOCs removal.
Properties of self-oxidized single crystalline perovskite N : BaTiO3 oxynitride epitaxial thin films
Authors: Derj Anyssa , Magnan Hélène , Mocuta Cristian , Le Fèvre Patrick , Leroy Jocelyne , Barbier Antoine
Published: February 2022

Epitaxial perovskite self-oxidized oxynitride N : BaTiO3 thin films, deposited on 1% Nb-doped SrTiO3(001) single crystals, were obtained by atomic nitrogen assisted molecular beam epitaxy without supplying additional oxygen gas.
Effects of nanostructuration on the electrochemical performance of metallic bioelectrodes
Authors: Mobini Sahba , González María Ujué , Caballero-Calero Olga , Patrick Erin E. , Martín-González Marisol , García-Martín José Miguel
Published: February 2022

Nanostructuration of metallic films improves their electrical impedance and charge storage capacity. It provides a wider biologically safe operation voltage range and accurate signal transfer. Au and Pt nanocolumns are resilient to oxidative aging.
Hydrogen-bonded supramolecular polymer micelles with pH/photothermal-responsive carmofur release and combined chemo-photothermal therapy
Authors: Wu Yanggui , Wang Huiying , Liu Qianqian , Lortie Frédéric , Bernard Julien , Binder Wolfgang H. , Chen Senbin , Zhu Jintao
Published: February 2022

This work targets the construction of hydrogen-bonded (H-bonded) supramolecular polymeric micelles loaded with chemotherapy drugs (carmofur) and photothermal agents (IR780) for combined chemo-photothermal therapies (CT/PTT).
Study of the preparation of Maifan stone and SRB immobilized particles and their effect on treatment of acid mine drainage
Authors: Guo Xuying , Hu Zhiyong , Dong Yanrong , Fu Saiou , Li Ying
Published: February 2022

Based on the ability of Maifan stone to adsorb heavy metals and the dissimilatory reduction of SO42− by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), Maifan stone–sulfate-reducing bacterium-immobilized particles were prepared via immobilization techniques.
From vanadium slag to multi-cation-intercalated V2O5·nH2O: low-cost direct synthesis and high-performance aqueous battery application
Authors: Chen Dong , Chen Haoliang , Du Cheng-Feng , Liu Lin , Geng Hongbo , Yu Hong , Rui Xianhong
Published: February 2022

Multi-ion co-pre-intercalated hydrated vanadate microflowers with a robust crystal structure from vanadium slag waste are developed, which present highly reversible and ultrafast Zn2+ storage ability at room temperature and −20 °C.
Microplastics in ecosystems: their implications and mitigation pathways
Authors: Roy Poritosh , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: February 2022

Microplastic (MP) pollution is an emerging threat to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
Interdisziplinäre Betreuung von Schwangeren mit Drogenabhängigkeit und ihren Neugeborenen
Authors: Gerhardt Andreas J. , Aschka Carmen
Published: February 2022

Drogenabhängige werdende Mütter zu betreuen, ist eine interdisziplinäre Herausforderung von der Schwangerschaft über die Geburt bis zum Wochenbett. Wie begleiten wir diese Frauen und ihre Familien angemessen, wertschätzend und zugewandt durch diese schwierige Lebensphase? Wie bewältigen wir es, das Leid zu erleben, das der Drogenmissbrauch hervorruft? Welche Chancen können wir bieten? Das Autorenteam beantwortet diese Fragen aus Sicht der klinischen Praxis und auf Basis von Fachliteratur und Leitlinien.
The Aging Athlete: Paradigm of Healthy Aging
Authors: Gries Kevin J. , Trappe Scott W.
Published: February 2022

The Exercise Boom of the 1970’s resulted in the adoption of habitual
exercise in a significant portion of the population. Many of these individuals
are defying the cultural norms by remaining physically active and competing at a
high level in their later years. The juxtaposition between masters athletes and
non-exercisers demonstrate the importance of remaining physically active
throughout the lifespan on physiological systems related to healthspan (years of
healthy living). This includes ~50% improved maximal aerobic
capacity (VO2max) and enhanced skeletal muscle health (size,
function, as well as metabolic and communicative properties) compared to
non-exercisers at a similar age. By taking a reductionist approach to
VO2max and skeletal muscle health, we can gain insight into how
aging and habitual exercise affects the aging process. Collectively, this review
provides a physiological basis for the elite performances seen in masters
athletes, as well as the health implications of lifelong exercise with a focus
on VO2max, skeletal muscle metabolic fitness, whole muscle size and
function, single muscle fiber physiology, and communicative properties of
skeletal muscle. This review has significant public health implications due to
the potent health benefits of habitual exercise across the lifespan.
Lesional Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: Does the “Uncommon” Differ from the Common?
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Singh Suyash , Mehrotra Anant , Pal Lily , Katiyar Shweta , Chaudhary Nandita , Verma Pawan Kumar , Maurya Ved Prakash , Das Kuntal K. , Sardhara Jayesh , Bhaisora Kamlesh Singh , Srivastava Arun Kumar , Jaiswal Awadhesh Kumar , Behari Sanjay
Published: February 2022

Objectives This study aims to evaluate the subgroup consisting of uncommon pathological entities presenting with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Methodology Twenty-four consecutively operated patients of lesional temporal lobe epilepsy were included in the study. Eleven cases were identified that had pathologies implicated as “uncommon” in previously done studies on the pathology of TLE. A subgroup analysis consisting of these uncommon lesions was done for clinical presentation and seizure outcome. The seizure outcome was assessed in terms of Engel and International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification.

Results Nine different pathological entities were identified within the study group. The mean age at surgery was 18.6 years (range 2–30 years). The mean duration of epilepsy was 48.3 months and the average duration of follow-up was 39.2months. All patients had seizures as the only complaint except three. Three patients had focal-aware seizures, two had focal motor onset, and the rest all had focal-unaware seizures. Seven patients were seizure free and the average age at diagnosis for these patients was 15.4 years (range 2–24 years.). The duration of seizure in the postoperative seizure-free group was 29.7 months and it was 81 months for the other group. All the patients with persistent postoperative seizures had focal-unaware seizures preoperatively.

Conclusion Despite the small and heterogeneous nature of this subgroup of uncommon lesions causing temporal lobe epilepsy, the clinical presentation, prognostic factors, and seizure outcome are similar to the cohort of common pathologies, including mesial temporal sclerosis.
A Renal Artery Stenting Case: Support for Increased Use of Drug-Eluting Stents
Authors: Viertel Achim , Breese Nils , Krist Lars , Groenefeld Gerian
Published: February 2022

Fibromuscular dysplasia is a rare, systemic arteriovascular disease that often affects the renal arteries. Balloon angioplasty is recommended for uncontrolled hypertension and compromised renal function; stenting is a bailout option. Drug-eluting stents have been suggested in case reports. We report the successful intervention with an everolimus-coated stent in a very young patient. The patient was followed for 2 years after placing the stent. The success of this case suggests that drug-eluting stents should be used more frequently in comparable situations.
Face-off: Social Media Responsibility in Medicine and Nonsurgical Treatment of the Face
Authors: Kowalczyk Chris , Aguilera Shino Bay , Andrei Gherghina , Damse Amelia , Ghalili Sabrina
Published: February 2022

The practice of reaching an audience through social media to promote nonsurgical treatments of the face is in its infancy. Young adults, arguably the most health-literate generation to date, comprise both the majority of users targeted by social media and the fastest growing demographic seeking cosmetic consultation. We know that this age group is also at an increased risk of depression and body dysmorphia in an era where nonsurgical cosmetic options are typically thought to be gateways to surgical treatments. In light of these facts, it seems the ethics of medicine might be lagging behind the amorphous, rapidly evolving nature of social media and, specifically, its use as a platform for business promotion and health information. As cosmetic treatments become a normalized facet of society's health care routine, in large part due to its ubiquity on social media platforms, its promotion by providers requires reexamination so that its pro-social potential can be realized. This is ensured by fostering a social media presence and in-office attitude that treatments should be an agreement between patient and provider on realistic expectations and how best to meet them.
Bedside Ultrasonography in Evaluating Mediastinum Leakage in an Extremely-Low-Birth-Weight Infant with Esophageal Perforation
Authors: Haga Mitsuhiro , Sato Yumiko , Kakihara Tomo , Sumiya Wakako , Kanno Masayuki , Ishimaru Tetsuya , Shimizu Masaki , Kawashima Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

Esophageal perforation in premature infants is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt treatment. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is recommended for diagnosis. However, it is difficult to obtain CECT images in premature infants because of their unstable conditions. We encountered a case of esophageal perforation in an extremely-low-birth-weight female infant. Bedside ultrasonography was useful in the diagnosis and follow-up evaluation of leakage in the mediastinum. Ultrasonography can be a useful modality for the evaluation of perforation of the lower part of the esophagus in premature infants.
The Effect of Video Education on Skin-to-Skin Contact at the Time of Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Caponero Catherine M. , Zoorob Dani G. , Heh Victor , Moussa Hind N.
Published: February 2022

Objective The objective of this study was to measure the impact of video education at the time of admission for delivery on intent and participation in skin-to-skin contact (SSC) immediately after birth.

Methods This study was a randomized controlled trial of educational intervention in women (N = 240) of 18 years or older admitted in anticipation of normal spontaneous term delivery. Alternate patients were randomized into video (N = 120) and no video (N = 120) groups. Both groups received a survey about SSC. The video group watched an educational DVD and completed a postsurvey about SSC.

Results During the preintervention survey, 89.2% of those in the video group compared with 83.3% of those in the no video group indicated that they planned to use SSC (p = 0.396). After the video, 98.3% planned to do SSC after delivery (p < 0.001). However, only 59.8% started SSC within 5 minutes of delivery in the video group and only 49.4% started SSC within 5 minutes of delivery in the no video group (p = 0.17).

Conclusion Video education alters the intention and trends toward participation in SSC within 5 minutes of delivery. Despite the plans for SSC, however, there was no significant difference in rates between the two groups. These findings support that obstacles, other than prenatal education, may affect early SSC.

Key Points
Limitations of Gravimetric Quantitative Blood Loss during Cesarean Delivery
Authors: Thurer Robert L. , Doctorvaladan Sahar , Carvalho Brendan , Jelks Andrea T.
Published: February 2022

Objective This study examined the accuracy, sources of error, and limitations of gravimetric quantification of blood loss (QBL) during cesarean delivery.

Study Design Blood loss determined by assays of the hemoglobin content on surgical sponges and in suction canisters was compared with QBL in 50 parturients.

Results QBL was moderately correlated to the actual blood loss (r = 0.564; p < 0.001). Compared with the reference assay, QBL overestimated blood loss for 44 patients (88%). QBL deviated from the assayed blood loss by more than 250 mL in 34 patients (68%) and by more than 500 mL in 16 cases (32%). Assayed blood loss was more than 1,000 mL in four patients. For three of these patients, QBL was more than 1,000 mL (sensitivity = 75%). QBL was more than 1,000 mL in 12 patients. While three of these had an assayed blood loss of more than 1,000 mL, 9 of the 46 patients with blood losses of less than 1,000 mL by the assay (20%) were incorrectly identified as having postpartum hemorrhage by QBL (false positives). The specificity of quantitative QBL for detection of blood loss more than or equal to 1,000 mL was 80.4%.

Conclusion QBL was only moderately correlated with the reference assay. While overestimation was more common than underestimation, both occurred. Moreover, QBL was particularly inaccurate when substantial bleeding occurred.

Key Points
Does the Degree of Maternal Fever in the Setting of Chorioamnionitis Lead to Adverse Neonatal Outcomes?
Authors: Varvoutis Megan S. , Abdalla Azza E. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K.
Published: February 2022

Objective The effect of the degree of maternal fever in the setting of chorioamnionitis on neonatal morbidity is unclear. The objective of this study is to assess the association between high maternal fevers (≥ 39°C) on neonatal morbidity.

Study Design Secondary analysis of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) Cesarean Registry data obtained from 1999 to 2002 among singleton gestations with chorioamnionitis. Women with a temperature less than 39°C (low fever) compared with those with greater than or equal to 39°C (high fever). Primary outcome was a composite of adverse neonatal outcomes such as death, sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, grade-3 or -4 intraventricular hemorrhage, seizure within 24 hours of delivery, intubation within 24 hours of delivery, and requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Demographic characteristics compared using Fisher's exact and Wilcoxon's rank-sum test as appropriate. Multivariate logistic regression analysis with performed to control for cofounders. Stratified analysis also performed to assess outcomes in term infants.

Results Of 1,313 included women, 1,200 (91.3%) were in the low fever group and 113 (8.7%) were in the high fever group. Women in the high fever group were more likely to be African American and group B Streptococcus positive. No difference in primary outcome was noted between the groups (38.9% high fever vs. 35.8% low fever, p = 0.54). High maternal fever was associated with increased risk of NICU admission (48.1 vs. 50.4%, p = 0.02). When controlling for African American race, preterm birth, and delivery route, patients with high fever were not more likely to have adverse neonatal outcomes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84, 1.98). In the analysis limited to term infants, when controlling for confounders, high fever, similarly, was not associated with increased odds of adverse neonatal outcomes (aOR = 1.59, 95% CI: 0.96, 2.65).

Conclusion The degree of maternal fever does not appear to be associated with an increased likelihood of adverse neonatal outcomes. Better understanding maternal factors that affect neonatal morbidity in the setting of chorioamnionitis is critical.

Key Points
Preconception Counseling: Identifying Ways to Improve Services
Authors: Burrows Khyla , Sheeder Jeanelle , Lijewski Virginia , Harper Teresa
Published: February 2022

Objective The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the maternal conditions for which preconception services are provided and the routine services and recommendations offered through the Maternal Fetal Medicine group at the University of Colorado (CU). The study sought to determine how services and recommendations differ by maternal condition, demographics, and reproductive health history.

Materials and Methods Charts of patients who received preconception counseling through the CU MFM department during 2018 were reviewed to evaluate maternal conditions and the type of counseling patients received. Patients were grouped by their referral reason and subsequently by counseling recommendations to either proceed with immediate conception, defer immediate conception pending completion of further recommendations or to not conceive.

Results Of the fifty-nine patients referred to preconception counseling, 52% (n = 31) of the women were referred for maternal disease, 40% (n = 24) for infertility, 32% (n = 19) for previous poor obstetric outcomes, 30% (n = 18) for advanced maternal age and finally, 15% (n = 9) for gynecologic anatomic abnormalities.

Conclusion During the initial evaluation, 58% (n = 34) of patients were determined to have no concern for immediate conception while 7% (n = 4) were ultimately advised to not conceive. Using this data, we identified areas of preconception counseling that standardization will improve by ensuring patients receive comparable services and advice.
Bleeding during Learning Curve of Thoracoscopic Lobectomy: CUSUM Analysis Results
Authors: Fiorelli Alfonso , Cascone Roberto , Carlucci Annalisa , Natale Giovanni , Noro Antonio , Bove Mary , Santini Mario
Published: February 2022

Background The management of intraoperative bleeding during thoracoscopic lobectomy is challenging, especially for non-experienced surgeons. We evaluated intraoperative bleeding in relation to learning curve of thoracoscopic lobectomy, the strategies to face it, the outcomes, and the target case number for gaining the technical proficiency.

Methods This was a retrospective single center study including consecutive patients undergoing thoracoscopic lobectomy for lung cancer. Based on cumulative sum analysis, patients were divided into early and late experience groups, and the differences on surgical outcomes, with particular focus on vascular injury, were statistically compared.

Results Eight-three patients were evaluated. Cumulative sum charts showed a decreasing of operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay after the 49th, the 43th, and the 39th case, respectively. Early (n = 49) compared with late experience group (n = 34) was associated with higher conversion rate (p = 0.08), longer operative time (p <0.0001), greater blood loss (p <0.0001), higher transfusion rate (p = 0.01), higher postoperative air leak rate (p = 0.02), longer chest tube stay (p <0.0001), and hospitalization (p <0.0001). Six patients (7%) had intraoperative bleeding during early phase of learning curve, successfully treated by thoracoscopy in four cases. Patients with vascular injury (n = 6) compared with control group (n = 77) presented a longer operative time (p = 0.003), greater blood loss (p = 0.0001), and higher transfusion rate (p = 0.001); no significant differences were found regarding postoperative morbidity (p = 0.57), length of chest tube stay (p = 0.07), and hospitalization (p = 0.07).

Conclusion Technical proficiency was achieved after 50 procedures. All vascular injuries occurred in the early phase of learning curve; they were safely managed, without affecting surgical outcomes.
Change in Columellar–Philtral and Nasolabial Angles Over Time Following Rhinoplasty
Authors: Brennan Tara E. , Trujillo Oscar , Sina Mehdi , Vandenberg Katherine N. , Myers Orrin , Pearlman Steven J.
Published: February 2022

Preoperative analyses of the columellar–philtral and nasolabial angles (CPA and NLA) are important considerations for the rhinoplasty surgeon. This study aims to quantify and compare the degree of change in nasal tip rotation as measured by CPA and NLA over time following rhinoplasty and to identify surgical maneuvers or patient characteristics that may affect nasal tip rotation. Prospective analysis of CPA and NLA in 111 consecutive, consenting cosmetic, and/or functional rhinoplasty patients of the senior author over a 1-year time period was performed. Angles were analyzed before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year following surgery. Subgroup analyses based on surgical maneuvers and other covariates were performed. The greatest change to CPA and NLA in the upright position was 11.8 degrees (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.8–13.7, p < 0.001) and 9.3 degrees (95% CI: 7.9–10.7, p < 0.001) of elevation 1 week after surgery, respectively. The mean CPA was not significantly different than preoperative measures 6 months after surgery; however, the NLA remained 4.94 degrees (95% CI: 2.1–8.4, p = 0.001) elevated. Females showed approximately 10 degrees more elevated CPA than males in pre- and postoperative time points; however, the NLA did not discriminate between sexes. Transfixion incisions appears to cause a significant decrease in postoperative NLA compared with patient who did not undergo transfixion incisions. Measurements for nasal tip rotation are variable and inconsistent throughout the literature. This study shows that rhinoplasty may have a greater effect on nasal tip rotation as measured by NLA and that the effects of NLA and CPA are independent, signifying that a standardized measurement for nasal tip rotation is warranted.
How do MNEs invent? An invention-based perspective of MNE profitability
Authors: Kafouros Mario , Hashai Niron , Tardios Janja Annabel , Wang Elizabeth Yi
Published: February 2022

Although MNEs create inventions both internally and collaboratively with partners as well as within and across countries, we know very little about the effects that combining such inventive activities have on their profitability. This study develops an invention-based perspective that considers how MNEs' profitability is influenced by the ways they organize the development of inventions across organizational boundaries (internally or collaboratively) and geographic boundaries (within or across countries). This perspective postulates that profitability is not merely driven by advantageous technological endowments but also by how such technological assets have been created. Accordingly, it explains why specific combinations of inventive activities across the two boundaries affect the likelihood of creating breakthrough inventions differently, provide different revenue and cost advantages, and have different effects on MNEs’ profitability. It further explains why cross-country inventions contribute more to profitability when they are internalized, while within-country inventions are more profitable when they are created collaboratively.
High-power diamond diodes tested with electronic noise
Authors: Johnson-Groh Mara
Published: February 2022

Characterizing defects in diamond devices destined for high-power electronics
Cataloguing the proteome: Current developments in single-molecule protein sequencing
Authors: Brady Morgan M. , Meyer Anne S.
Published: February 2022

The cellular proteome is complex and dynamic, with proteins playing a critical role in cell-level biological processes that contribute to homeostasis, stimuli response, and disease pathology, among others. As such, protein analysis and characterization are of extreme importance in both research and clinical settings. In the last few decades, most proteomics analysis has relied on mass spectrometry, affinity reagents, or some combination thereof. However, these techniques are limited by their requirements for large sample amounts, low resolution, and insufficient dynamic range, making them largely insufficient for the characterization of proteins in low-abundance or single-cell proteomic analysis. Despite unique technical challenges, several single-molecule protein sequencing (SMPS) technologies have been proposed in recent years to address these issues. In this review, we outline several approaches to SMPS technologies and discuss their advantages, limitations, and potential contributions toward an accurate, sensitive, and high-throughput platform.
Optical interface for a hybrid magnon–photon resonator
Authors: Nayak Banoj Kumar , Mathai Cijy , Meirom Dekel , Shtempluck Oleg , Buks Eyal
Published: February 2022

We study optical detection of magnetic resonance of a ferrimagnetic sphere resonator, which is strongly coupled to a microwave loop gap resonator. Optical fibers are employed for coupling the sphere resonator with light in the telecom band. We find that magnetic resonance can be optically detected near the region of anti-crossing between the loop gap and the ferrimagnetic resonances. The detection bandwidth is found to be limited by a ferrimagnetic damping rate.
Segmented correlation consistent basis sets for the 4d and 5d transition metals
Authors: Schoendorff George , Boatz Jerry A.
Published: February 2022

The cc-pVnZ-PP and cc-pwCVnZ-PP (n = D, T, Q, 5) pseudopotential-based correlation consistent basis sets for the 4d and 5d transition metals were reoptimized to have segmented contraction schemes. Computed ionization potentials and dns2 → dn+1s1 excitation energies computed at the coupled cluster level of theory with single, double, and perturbative triple excitations using the segmented basis sets approximate the result obtained with the generally contracted basis sets with mean absolute deviations (MADs) within 0.75 kcal mol−1 for the ionization energies and 2 kcal mol−1 for the excitation energies with respect to the results obtained with the generally contracted basis. The segmented basis sets also retain the systematically convergent behavior of the correlation consistent basis sets with MADs within 0.61 kcal mol−1 with respect to the generally contracted basis for properties extrapolated to the complete basis set limit. The segmented nature of the seg-cc-pVnZ-PP and seg-cc-pwCVnZ-PP basis sets enables significant performance improvements when using algorithms with an a priori treatment of the contraction coefficients with average speedups in the time required to form the Fock matrix ranging from 6.1× for the seg-cc-pVDZ-PP basis sets to 53.8× for the seg-cc-pV5Z-PP basis sets.
Quantitative bicomponent imaging with single-wavelength by using a transmission-mode photoacoustic microscope
Authors: Wu Shiqing , Li Jing , Tao Chao , Liu Xiaojun
Published: February 2022

Quantitative images of multiple molecular components in tissues have significance in understanding tissue functions. However, most imaging methods of quantifying a multicomponent mixture often rely on multiple excitations with different wavelengths or intensities. In this study, a transmission-mode photoacoustic microscope is developed to achieve quantitative images of two components in specimen slices. Different from other methods, the proposed method only scans the specimen one time by using a single-wavelength laser. After each laser excitation, the ultrasound transducer detects two signals: One is only related to optical absorption and the other is associated with both absorption and scattering. A linear equation system is proposed to describe the relationship between the signal magnitude and the molecular concentrations of thin-specimen. Solving these equations, we extract quantitative images of components in the thin-specimen from the two signals excited by a single-wavelength laser. Experiments demonstrate that the scheme accurately quantifies the concentrations of various mixtures of sterile sheep blood and milk, moreover, correctly revealing the concentration gradient due to molecular diffusion along the boundary between different components. This method could overcome the limitations induced by multiple excitations, and it will be helpful in developing a quantitative multiple-molecular imaging system.
Fungal gasdermin-like proteins are controlled by proteolytic cleavage
Authors: Clavé Corinne , Dyrka Witold , Turcotte Elizabeth A. , Granger-Farbos Alexandra , Ibarlosa Léa , Pinson Benoît , Vance Russell E. , Saupe Sven J. , Daskalov Asen
Published: February 2022

Significance

The recent discovery of gasdermin-like proteins in fungi have brought to light that this family of pore-forming proteins controls cell death in two of the major eukaryotic kingdoms, fungi and mammals. Yet the regulation of cytotoxicity of the fungal gasdermins and their molecular pathways remain uncharacterized. Here, we describe the regulation through proteolytic cleavage of the fungal gasdermin HET-Q1 and uncover that a majority of fungal gasdermins are genomically clustered with protease-encoding genes. Some of these genes encode proteins with caspase-related domains and/or are members of a family of immune receptors in mammals and plants. Overall, this work contributes toward our understanding of the evolution of gasdermin-dependent cell death, enlightening multiple evolutionary parallels between signaling pathways in mammals and fungi.
Infrared triggered smart contact lens for the treatment of presbyopia
Authors: Bailey James , Clamp John , Farmer Steven , Gleeson Helen F , Haynes Tim , Jones J Cliff , Moorhouse Tom , Morgan Philip
Published: February 2022

A switchable contact lens prototype was fabricated and tested with integrated off the shelf electronic components to drive a liquid crystal (LC) active lens element. This prototype was capable of changing its focal power by an average of +1.9D, but a maximum of +3.2 ± 0.2D was also measured. Switchable focus contact lenses are intended to help restore functional near and intermediate vision accommodation to those suffering from presbyopia, an inevitable age-related eye condition. The custom poly-methyl-methacrylate contact lens substrates used in this prototype are equivalent to commercially available scleral contact lenses. It was discovered that more careful design considerations are needed when at least one of the substrates is <100 µm thick (which is needed for a final device). Without these design considerations, the switchable focal power of the lens is susceptible to change as the LC insert layer is able to flex. The prototype has an on-board electronics platform which was self-powered with a battery. Illuminating the electronics package with a 600 Hz infrared signal switched the device on, which passed an AC voltage to the electrodes of the contact lens, reorientating the director of the LC with an electric field. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a battery powered and wirelessly triggered smart contact lens for the treatment of presbyopia.
Recent progress of heterostructures based on two dimensional materials and wide bandgap semiconductors
Authors: Liu Ying , Fang Yanjun , Yang Deren , Pi Xiaodong , Wang Peijian
Published: February 2022

Recent progress in the synthesis and assembly of two-dimensional (2D) materials has laid the foundation for various applications of atomically thin layer films. These 2D materials possess rich and diverse properties such as layer-dependent band gaps, interesting spin degrees of freedom, and variable crystal structures. They exhibit broad application prospects in micro-nano devices. In the meantime, the wide bandgap semiconductors (WBS) with an elevated breakdown voltage, high mobility, and high thermal conductivity have shown important applications in high-frequency microwave devices, high-temperature and high-power electronic devices. Beyond the study on single 2D materials or WBS materials, the multi-functional 2D/WBS heterostructures can promote the carrier transport at the interface, potentially providing novel physical phenomena and applications, and improving the performance of electronic and optoelectronic devices. In this review, we overview the advantages of the heterostructures of 2D materials and WBS materials, and introduce the construction methods of 2D/WBS heterostructures. Then, we present the diversity and recent progress in the applications of 2D/WBS heterostructures, including photodetectors, photocatalysis, sensors, and energy related devices. Finally, we put forward the current challenges of 2D/WBS heterostructures and propose the promising research directions in the future.
Influence of W doping on the structure, magnetism and exchange bias in Ni47Mn40Sn13−
x
W
x
Heusler alloys
Authors: Norouzi-Inallu M , Kameli P , Ghotbi Varzaneh A , Abdolhosseini Sarsari I , Abbasi Eskandari M , Orue I , Rodríguez-Crespo B , Chernenko V
Published: February 2022

The influence of the W-doping on the martensitic transformation, magnetic properties and exchange bias (EB) effect in the Ni47Mn40Sn13−x
W
x
(x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.25 at.%) magnetic shape memory alloys has been investigated. It is found that the W-doping causes a simultaneous reduction of both the ferromagnetic (FM) exchange coupling and enhancement of the magnetic anisotropy, leading to a decrease of the magnetic moment of the low-temperature phase and to a higher attainable EB. The magnetic memory measurements reveal the presence of a glassy magnetic ground state, which can significantly impact the reduction of magnetization and enhancement of EB in the studied bulk alloys. It is argued that the glassy magnetic ground state originates from the partial magnetic disorder resulting from the correlation between the antiferromagnetic and FM states. The results demonstrate that the doping by W instead of Sn is an efficient tool to tailor the EB effect in the Ni–Mn–Sn-based Heusler alloys, whereby they are promising for spintronic applications.
Intermittent-contact local dielectric spectroscopy of nanostructured interfaces
Authors: Labardi M , Tripathi P , Capaccioli S , Casalini R
Published: February 2022

Local dielectric spectroscopy (LDS) is a scanning probe method, based on dynamic-mode atomic force microscopy (AFM), to discriminate dielectric properties at surfaces with nanometer-scale lateral resolution. Until now a sub-10 nm resolution for LDS has not been documented, that would give access to the length scale of fundamental physical phenomena such as the cooperativity length related to structural arrest in glass formers (2–3 nm). In this work, LDS performed by a peculiar variant of intermittent-contact mode of AFM, named constant-excitation frequency modulation, was introduced and extensively explored in order to assess its best resolution capability. Dependence of resolution and contrast of dielectric imaging and spectroscopy on operation parameters like probe oscillation amplitude and free amplitude, the resulting frequency shift, and probe/surface distance-regulation feedback gain, were explored. By using thin films of a diblock copolymer of polystyrene (PS) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), exhibiting phase separation on the nanometer scale, lateral resolution of at least 3 nm was demonstrated in both dielectric imaging and localized spectroscopy, by operating with optimized parameters. The interface within lamellar PS/PMMA was mapped, with a best width in the range between 1 and 3 nm. Changes of characteristic time of the secondary (β) relaxation process of PMMA could be tracked across the interface with PS.
U-net architecture with embedded Inception-ResNet-v2 image encoding modules for automatic segmentation of organs-at-risk in head and neck cancer radiation therapy based on computed tomography scans
Authors: Siciarz Pawel , McCurdy Boyd
Published: February 2022

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to utilize a deep learning model with an advanced inception module to automatically contour critical organs on the computed tomography (CT) scans of head and neck cancer patients who underwent radiation therapy treatment and interpret the clinical suitability of the model results through activation mapping. Materials and methods. This study included 25 critical organs that were delineated by expert radiation oncologists. Contoured medical images of 964 patients were sourced from a publicly available TCIA database. The proportion of training, validation, and testing samples for deep learning model development was 65%, 25%, and 10% respectively. The CT scans and segmentation masks were augmented with shift, scale, and rotate transformations. Additionally, medical images were pre-processed using contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization to enhance soft tissue contrast while contours were subjected to morphological operations to ensure their structural integrity. The segmentation model was based on the U-Net architecture with embedded Inception-ResNet-v2 blocks and was trained over 100 epochs with a batch size of 32 and an adaptive learning rate optimizer. The loss function combined the Jaccard Index and binary cross entropy. The model performance was evaluated with Dice Score, Jaccard Index, and Hausdorff Distances. The interpretability of the model was analyzed with guided gradient-weighted class activation mapping. Results. The Dice Score, Jaccard Index, and mean Hausdorff Distance averaged over all structures and patients were 0.82 ± 0.10, 0.71 ± 0.10, and 1.51 ± 1.17 mm respectively on the testing data sets. The Dice Scores for 86.4% of compared structures was within range or better than published interobserver variability derived from multi-institutional studies. The average model training time was 8 h per anatomical structure. The full segmentation of head and neck anatomy by the trained network required only 6.8 s per patient. Conclusions. High accuracy obtained on a large, multi-institutional data set, short segmentation time and clinically-realistic prediction reasoning make the model proposed in this work a feasible solution for head and neck CT scan segmentation in a clinical environment.
True differential superconducting on-chip output amplifier
*
Authors: Egan Jonathan , Brownfield Andrew , Herr Quentin
Published: February 2022

The true-differential superconductor on-chip amplifier has complementary outputs that float with respect to chip ground. This improves signal integrity and compatibility with the receiving semiconductor stage. Both source-terminated and non-source-terminated designs producing 4 mV demonstrated rejection of a large common mode interference in the package. Measured margins are ±8.5% on the output bias, and ±28% on AC clock amplitude. Waveforms and eye diagrams are taken at 2.9–10 Gb 

s

−
1

. Direct measurement of bit-error rates are better than the resolution limit of

1
×

10

−
12

at 2.9 Gb 

s

−
1

, and better than

1
×

10

−
9

at 10 Gb 

s

−
1

.
Study of post-arc residual plasma dissipation process of vacuum circuit breakers based on a 2D particle-in-cell model
Authors: MO Yongpeng , SHI Zongqian , JIA Shenli
Published: February 2022

In order to get an insight into residual plasma radial motion during the post-arc stage, a two-dimensional (2D) cylindrical particle-in-cell (PIC) model is developed. Firstly, influences of a virtual boundary condition on the residual plasma motion are studied. For purpose of validating this 2D cylindrical particle-in-cell model, a comparison between one-dimensional particle-in-cell model is also presented in this paper. Then a study about the influences of the rising rate of transient recovery voltage on the residual plasma radial motion is presented on the basis of the 2D PIC model.
Fixation and fluctuations in two-species cooperation
Authors: Piñero Jordi , Redner S , Solé Ricard
Published: February 2022

Cooperative interactions pervade in a broad range of many-body populations, such as ecological communities, social organizations, and economic webs. We investigate the dynamics of a population of two equivalent species A and B that are driven by cooperative and symmetric interactions between these species. For an isolated population, we determine the probability to reach fixation, where only one species remains, as a function of the initial concentrations of the two species, as well as the time to reach fixation. The latter scales exponentially with the population size. When members of each species migrate into the population at rate λ and replace a randomly selected individual, surprisingly rich dynamics ensues. Ostensibly, the population reaches a steady state, but the steady-state population distribution undergoes a unimodal to trimodal transition as the migration rate decreases below a critical value λ
c. In the low-migration regime, λ < λ
c, the steady state is not truly steady, but instead strongly fluctuates between near-fixation states, where the population consists of mostly A’s or of mostly B’s. The characteristic time scale of these fluctuations diverges as λ
−1. Thus in spite of the cooperative interaction, a typical snapshot of the population will contain almost all A’s or almost all B’s.
Unleashing energy storage ability of aqueous battery electrolytes
Authors: Tang Hongmei , Qu Zhe , Yan Yaping , Zhang Wenlan , Zhang Hua , Zhu Minshen , Schmidt Oliver G
Published: February 2022

Electrolytes make up a large portion of the volume of energy storage devices, but they often do not contribute to energy storage. The ability of using electrolytes to store charge would promise a significant increase in energy density to meet the needs of evolving electronic devices. Redox-flow batteries use electrolytes to store energy and show high energy densities, but the same design cannot be applied to portable or microdevices that require static electrolytes. Therefore, implementing electrolyte energy storage in a non-flow design becomes critical. This review summarizes the requirements for a stable and efficient electrolyte and diverse redox-active species dissolved in aqueous solutions. More importantly, we review the pioneering works using static electrolyte energy storage in the hope that it will pave a new way to design compact and energy-dense batteries.
Patient-related risk factors for in-hospital functional decline in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Geyskens Lisa , Jeuris Anthony , Deschodt Mieke , Van Grootven Bastiaan , Gielen Evelien , Flamaing Johan
Published: February 2022

Background

Functional decline (FD) is a common and serious problem among hospitalised older adults.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify patient-related risk factors for in-hospital FD in older adults.

Methods

Previous reviews on this topic (1970-2007) and the databases PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL (January 2007-December 2020) were searched. Reference lists of included articles were screened. Studies investigating patient-related risk factors for FD from (pre)admission to discharge in older adults admitted to an acute geriatric or internal medical unit were included. Study quality was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using random-effects models. The quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE.

Results

Twenty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Statistically significant risk factors were living in a nursing home (OR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.29-4.52), impairment in instrumental activities of daily living (OR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.51-2.86), history of falls (OR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.00-2.92), cognitive impairment (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.56-2.14), dementia (OR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.23-2.38), delirium (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.88-2.93), (risk of) malnutrition (OR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.03-3.03), hypoalbuminemia (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.36-2.36), comorbidity (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03-1.16), and the presence of pressure ulcers (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.82-6.09). The narrative synthesis suggested prehospital FD, needing assistance with walking, and low body mass index as additional risk factors.

Conclusions

Several patient-related risk factors for in-hospital FD were identified that can be used at hospital admission to identify older patients at risk of FD.
Interviewer Error Within the Face-to-Face Food Frequency Questionnaire in Large Multisite Epidemiologic Studies
Authors: Sun Chengyuan , Guo Bing , Liu Xiang , Xiao Xiong , Zhao Xing ,   on behalf of the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (CMEC) Collaborative Group
Published: February 2022

Interviewer error has long been recognized in face-to-face surveys, but little is known about interviewer error within face-to-face food frequency questionnaires, particularly in large multisite epidemiologic studies. Using dietary data from the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (2018–2019), in which all field interviews were audio recorded, we identified a potentially error-prone sample by outlier detection and further examined the interviewer errors by reviewing these error-prone interviews. Among 174,012 questions for 5,025 error-prone interviews, 13,855 (7.96%) questions were identified with interviewer error, which mainly came from falsification (37.53%), coding error (31.71%), and reading deviation (30.76%). We found that 98.29% of interviewers and 73.71% of respondents had at least 1 error, and half of the errors could be attributed to 21.94% of interviewers or to 13.77% of respondents. Higher error risk was observed in complicated questions, such as questions assessing food quantification or referring to seasonally supplied food groups. After correcting the errors, the means and standard deviations of estimated food intakes all decreased. These findings suggested that interviewer error should not be ignored within face-to-face food frequency questionnaires and that more efforts are needed to monitor error-prone interviewers and respondents and reduce survey burdens in questionnaire design.
Size, more than colour, drives dyadic interactions in sub-adults of a colour polymorphic cichlid
Authors: Lehtonen Topi K , Nagarajan-Radha Venkatesh , Dowling Damian K , Wong Bob Bm
Published: February 2022

Social and aggressive behaviours often affect the fitness of multiple interacting individuals simultaneously. Here, we assessed dyadic interactions in a colour-polymorphic cichlid fish, the red devil, Amphilophus labiatus. We found that sub-adult red devil pairs of smaller body size interacted more, and were more aggressive towards each other, than pairs comprising larger individuals. Interactions did not significantly differ between colour morphs, i.e. between dark, gold and heterotypic pairs. Interestingly, within a broad range of parameters, an automated measure of time that the two fish spent in close proximity was an accurate proxy for their level of aggression, as measured by an observer from video recordings. These results show that, between sub-adult red devils, (aggressive) interactions significantly depend on body size, but not colour morph, of the interacting individuals. In addition, the results support the use of automated data-gathering approaches as an appropriate tool for studies of aggression.