bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Millimeter‐Wave Channels
Authors: Molisch Andreas F. , Choi Thomas , Abbasi Naveed , Rottenberg Francois , Zhang Jianzhong
Published: October 2021

This article provides an overview of measurements and models of millimeter‐wave (mmWave) propagation channels. After a review of the frequency dependence of propagation phenomena and the definition of parameters of interest, we then discuss the different methods for measuring mmWave channels both indoors and outdoors. Then follows an overview of the key measurement results, surveying again the literature of indoor channels, outdoor channels, and the impact of moving people. A survey of different types of channel models, including 3GPP type, geometry‐based stochastic channel models, and map‐based models elucidates the aspects of those models that are particularly relevant for mmWave frequencies. A discussion of the interaction of channels and mmWave systems and an outlook and discussion of future research topics round off this article.
High‐Affinity Copper Transporter Ctr1
Authors: Yuan Peng
Published: October 2021

Copper serves as an essential cofactor for enzymes involved in a multitude of physiological processes such as mitochondrial respiration, iron metabolism, neuropeptide biogenesis, and connective tissue formation. An appropriate copper content is critical for normal growth and development, and inappropriate Cu levels have been associated with pathological conditions such as neurodegeneration, cancer, and immune disorders. The high‐affinity copper transporter Ctr1 is an evolutionarily conserved copper importer that plays a crucial role in dietary copper uptake and intracellular copper distribution. Additionally, Ctr1 has been implicated in cellular uptake of platinum‐based chemotherapeutic agents. As the primary Cu importer, Ctr1 is a promising therapeutic target of numerous diseases associated with inappropriate Cu levels. Recent advances in structural and mechanistic studies of Ctr1, including electron and X‐ray crystallographic analyses and functional reconstitution, have provided insights into copper transport mechanisms, suggesting novel therapeutic opportunities for the treatment of Cu metabolism diseases.
Eight memory researchers investigating their own autobiographical memory
Authors: Sotgiu Igor
Published: October 2021

The present article provides a descriptive review of the studies conducted by eight memory researchers who empirically investigated their own autobiographical memory. They are Francis Galton, Madorah Smith, Marigold Linton, Willem Wagenaar, Steen Larsen, Dorthe Berntsen, Alan Baddeley and Richard White. These authors assessed their ability to remember their personal past by means of a range of experimental procedures and materials including personal diaries, letters, cued and free recall tasks. The methods implemented so far allowed memory researchers to obtain relevant findings on a number of issues which are at the heart of the contemporary autobiographical memory debate, that is, forgetting, memory accuracy, phenomenology, memory content and memory organisation. The findings of the individual studies are compared and contrasted with those of conventional autobiographical memory functioning. It is argued that the strengths of the memory researchers' self‐studies of autobiographical memory outweigh their weaknesses.
Non‐fragile state estimation for second‐order memristive neural networks with unbounded time‐varying delays
Authors: Luo Ling , Jian Jigui , Zheng Sheng
Published: October 2021

Without converting the second‐order memristive neural networks (SMNNs) into the usual first‐order systems, this article works on the non‐fragile state estimation of SMNNs with unbounded time‐varying delays. The memristor is treated as uncertainty by recommending some measurable functions. According to Lyapunov functional approach, inequality techniques, and combining Barbalat lemma, a new Lyapunov functional is proposed to straightway discuss the asymptotic stability for the error system, and several sufficient conditions are obtained to assure the existence of the preset estimators. The nonfragile estimators are designed and several explicit descriptions of the estimators are given by solving linear matrix inequalities. To overcome the uncertainty of state variables, the problem of parameter mismatch is as well considered. Finally, two examples are given to verify the availability of the results.
Intrinsic Magnetic Properties of a Highly Anisotropic Rare‐Earth‐Free Fe2P‐Based Magnet
Authors: He Yangkun , Adler Peter , Schneider Sebastian , Soldatov Ivan , Mu Qingge , Borrmann Horst , Schnelle Walter , Schaefer Rudolf , Rellinghaus Bernd , Fecher Gerhard H. , Felser Claudia
Published: October 2021

Permanent magnets are applied in many large‐scale and emerging applications and are crucial components in numerous established and newly evolving technologies. Rare‐earth magnets exhibit excellent hard magnetic properties; however, their applications are limited by the price and supply risk of the strategic rare‐earth elements. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for inexpensive magnets without strategic elements. Here, the authors report the intrinsic highly‐anisotropic magnetic properties of Co and Si co‐doped single crystals (Fe1−yCoy)2P1−xSix (y ≈ 0.09). Co increases Curie temperature TC; Si doping decreases magnetocrystalline anisotropy K1 and also increases TC significantly because of the enhanced interlayer interaction. The maximum room temperature magnetocrystalline anisotropy K1 = 1.09 MJ m−3 is achieved for x = 0.22, with saturation magnetization µ0Ms = 0.96 T and TC = 506 K. The theoretical maximum energy product is one of the largest for any magnet without a rare earth or Pt. Besides its promising intrinsic magnetic properties and absence of any strategic elements, other advantages are phase stability at high temperatures and excellent corrosion resistance, which make this material most promising for permanent magnetic development that will have a positive influence in industry and daily life.
An Ion‐Dipole‐Reinforced Polyether Electrolyte with Ion‐Solvation Cages Enabling High–Voltage‐Tolerant and Ion‐Conductive Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Kun , Wu Feng , Wang Xinran , Zheng Lumin , Yang Xiaoyu , Zhao Huichun , Sun Yuheng , Zhao Wenbin , Bai Ying , Wu Chuan
Published: October 2021

Solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) with sufficient ionic conduction, wide voltage window, flexible‐rigid interface, and ease of processibility are determinative to the development of energy‐dense solid‐state lithium metal batteries. Due to the low density and interfacial compatibility, polyether SSE has been studied for decades but remains handicapped by the inherently low ionic conductivity and insufficient voltage window. In this contribution, an ion‐dipole‐reinforced poly‐3‐hydroxymethyl‐3‐methyloxetane is demonstrated as a novel SSE and major substitution to conventional poly(ethylene oxide). By further polypropylene skeleton compositing, the composite solid electrolyte (PHMP) synergistically achieves high voltage tolerance (4.6 V), high ion‐conduction (25 °C, 1.26 × 10−4 S cm−1), and flexible‐rigid mechanical properties. Cryo‐transmission electron microscope has revealed a columnar Li deposition and LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interface, suggesting excellent dendrite suppression. According to density functional theory, the densely branched ether–oxygen groups play an important role as ion solvation cages, favoring strong Li+‐coordination and fast diffusion kinetics. More importantly, it restrains the proton‐induced decomposition and essentially enhances high‐voltage stability. As a result, PHMP contributes to an improved rate capability, significantly reduced interface impedance, and long‐term cycle stability of Li symmetrical batteries for over 1600 h. PHMP‐modified LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2|Li batteries exhibit a high discharge capacity of 211.5 mAh g−1 and desirable cycle stability.
Large Spin‐to‐Charge Conversion at Room Temperature in Extended Epitaxial Sb2Te3 Topological Insulator Chemically Grown on Silicon
Authors: Longo Emanuele , Belli Matteo , Alia Mario , Rimoldi Martino , Cecchini Raimondo , Longo Massimo , Wiemer Claudia , Locatelli Lorenzo , Tsipas Polychronis , Dimoulas Athanasios , Gubbiotti Gianluca , Fanciulli Marco , Mantovan Roberto
Published: October 2021

Spin‐charge interconversion phenomena at the interface between magnetic materials and topological insulators (TIs) are attracting enormous interest in the research effort toward the development of fast and ultra‐low power devices for future information and communication technology. A large spin‐to‐charge (S2C) conversion efficiency in Au/Co/Au/Sb2Te3/Si(111) heterostructures based on Sb2Te3 TIs grown by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition on 4″ Si(111) substrates is reported. By conducting room temperature spin pumping ferromagnetic resonance, a 250% enhanced charge current due to spin pumping in the Sb2Te3‐containing system is measured when compared to the reference Au/Co/Au/Si(111). The corresponding inverse Edelstein effect length λIEE ranges from 0.28 to 0.61 nm, depending on the adopted methodological analysis, with the upper value being so far the largest observed for the second generation of 3D chalcogenide‐based TIs. These results open the path toward the use of chemical methods to produce TIs on large area Si substrates and characterized by highly performing S2C conversion, thus marking a milestone toward future technology‐transfer.
Rational Management of Charge Transfer Character of Benzothienopyrimidine‐Based N‐Type Host for Blue Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kim Yoon Sung , Lim Junseop , Lee Jun Yeob , Lee Yoonkyoo , Choo Changwoong
Published: October 2021

Two materials, 3‐(4‐(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)benzo[4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidin‐2‐yl)‐5‐(triphenylsilyl)benzonitrile (CzBTPCNmSi) and 9‐(2‐(3‐(triphenylsilyl)phenyl)benzo[4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidin‐4‐yl)‐9H‐carbazole‐3‐carbonitrile (CNCzBTPmSi), are synthesized as the N‐type host (electron‐transport type host) of a mixed host, harvesting triplet excitons of the blue phosphor by engineering the charge transfer character using a CN unit. The two host materials are based on benzothienopyrmidine modified using CN, tetraphenylsilyl, and carbazole groups to control the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital level, manage their intermolecular packing, and stabilize the molecule against holes, respectively. The two hosts are mixed with a P‐type 3,3‐di(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)biphenyl (mCBP) to offer a mixed host for sky and deep blue‐emitting phosphors. In the device applications, CzBTPCNmSi and CNCzBTPmSi show high external quantum efficiency (EQE) (around 24% in the sky‐blue devices), whereas only CNCzBTPmSi exhibited high EQE (above 20% in the deep blue devices) due to high triplet energy. Moreover, the CNCzBTPmSi demonstrates a longer device lifetime than the control host without the CN unit. Thus, CN engineering can manage the triplet energy, EQE, and device lifetime of blue phosphorescent devices by controlling the charge transfer character.
Analytical Model of the Piezoresistive Behavior of Highly Compressible Sensors Made of Microporous Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhang Jianpeng , Wang Ziya , Peng Zhengchun
Published: October 2021

Microporous conductive nanocomposites, compared with conventional filler‐matrix composites, enable flexible piezoresistive sensors with higher sensitivity and a larger measurement range. Previous research focuses on different methods of fabricating porous materials that are highly sensitive to pressure, however, there is only a small amount of research studying the mechanism of those sensors. Without an appropriate theoretical guide, relying on expensive experimental approaches to enhance the sensitivity will significantly limit the advancement of this technology. This article proposes an efficient analytical model, with some parameters determined from experiments, to investigate the piezoresistive behaviors of microporous nanocomposites. The predicted results agree well with the analysis from finite element models as well as the experimental data. Moreover, scaling law is applied to study the effect of geometry, material, and interface on the sensitivity of the sensor. This study establishes the theoretical foundation for the design of a high‐performance piezoresistive sensor based on microporous nanocomposites.
Charge Transfer at the Hetero‐Interface of WSe2/InSe Induces Efficient Doping to Achieve Multi‐Functional Lateral Homo‐Junctions
Authors: Xu Bo , Li Yang , Sun Zhao‐Yuan , Zhao Ze , Yang Li , Gao Feng , Hu Ping‐An , Zhen Liang , Xu Cheng‐Yan
Published: October 2021

Charge transfer at the hetero‐interface is at the center of van der Waals (vdWs) heterostructure devices for multi‐functional applications. Compared with the extensively investigated photogenerated carrier transfer driven by the built‐in electric field from the conduction or valence band offset, the charge transfer due to the Fermi level difference of the two adjacent constitutes, and its influence on the opto‐/electronic performance of vdWs heterostructure devices are not clarified. Herein, by taking an example of WSe2/InSe heterostructure, it is demonstrated that the charge transfer at the hetero‐interface is an efficient “doping” strategy to dramatically modulate the carrier densities of atomically thin counterparts due to the extension of “band bending” across the entire heterostructure, paving the way for the creation of lateral WSe2 p‐n and n‐n+ homo‐junctions with multi‐functionalities, including promising rectification, photovoltaic, and photodetection abilities. Moreover, the device physics of lateral homo‐junctions, including potential distribution, band diagram, and photocurrent generation mechanisms, is revealed by gate‐dependent Kelvin probe force microscopy and scanning photocurrent measurements. This work not only provides a general avenue to build 2D lateral homo‐junctions, but also give deeper insights into the device physics of the junctions by coupling scanning probe and scanning photocurrent techniques.
From Chlorinated Solvents to Branched Polyethylene: Solvent‐Induced Phase Separation for the Greener Processing of Semiconducting Polymers
Authors: Wu Yunyun , Ocheje Michael U. , Mechael Sara S. , Wang Yunfei , Landry Eric , Gu Xiaodan , Xiang Peng , Carmichael Tricia Breen , Rondeau‐Gagné Simon
Published: October 2021

Despite having favorable optoelectronic and thermomechanical properties, the wide application of semiconducting polymers still suffers from limitations, particularly with regards to their processing in solution which necessitates toxic chlorinated solvents due to their intrinsic low solubility in common organic solvents. This work presents a novel greener approach to the fabrication of organic electronics without the use of toxic chlorinated solvents. Low‐molecular‐weight non‐toxic branched polyethylene (BPE) is used as a solvent to process diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based semiconducting polymers, then the solvent‐induced phase separation (SIPS) technique is adopted to produce films of semiconducting polymers from solution for the fabrication of organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). The films of semiconducting polymers prepared from BPE using SIPS show a more porous granular morphology with preferential edge‐on crystalline orientation compared to the semiconducting polymer film processed from chloroform. OFETs based on the semiconducting films processed from BPE show similar device characteristics to those prepared from chloroform without thermal annealing, confirming the efficiency and suitability of BPE to replace traditional chlorinated solvents for green organic electronics. This new greener processing approach for semiconducting polymers is potentially compatible with different printing techniques and is particularly promising for the preparation of porous semiconducting layers and the fabrication of OFET‐based electronics.
Maize and sorghum root growth and yield when intercropped with forage grasses
Authors: Sarto Marcos Vinicius Mansano , Borges Wander Luis Barbosa , Bassegio Doglas , Rice Charles , Rosolem Ciro Antonio
Published: October 2021

Integrated crop–livestock systems that intercrop forage crops with grain crops are effective for increasing forage production and improving nutrient cycling and soil health. However, the potential for root competition when maize (Zea mays L.) and sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] are intercropped with forages in sandy soils is unknown. The objectives of this study were (a) to evaluate the root growth and production characteristics of maize and sorghum intercropped with forage grasses and (b) quantify above‐ and belowground biomass in a tropical integrated cropping system. Two 3‐yr experiments were conducted in which maize and sorghum were intercropped with forage grasses: guineagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq.), ruzigrass [Urochloa ruziziensis (Germ. & Evrard) Crins], palisade grass [Urochloa brizantha (Hochst ex A. Rich.) R. Webster], or an Urochloa hybrid. Monocropped maize and sorghum were used as controls. Fine roots (≤3 mm) were sampled in the monocropped and intercropped systems at soil depths of 1.0 m. Intercropping guineagrass and palisade grass with maize and sorghum resulted in 40% greater dry matter production than intercropping with ruzigrass and the Urochloa hybrid. The positive effect of intercropping forage grasses in the low‐fertility sandy soil was greater for sorghum than for maize because of lower root growth competition. On average, intercropping maize and sorghum with forages increased the total above‐ and belowground biomass by 30 and 50%, respectively, compared with monocropping. In summary, intercropping maize and sorghum with forage grasses is a viable option to enhance biomass during the off‐season in tropical integrated crop–livestock systems.
Fodder development in sub‐Saharan Africa: An introduction
Authors: Boote Kenneth J. , Adesogan Adegbola T. , Balehegn Mulubrhan , Duncan Alan , Muir James P. , Dubeux José C.B. , Rios Esteban F.
Published: October 2021

Livestock systems play a key role in the sustainability and livelihood of sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). The human population in SSA is rapidly increasing, resulting in steady growth in the demand for animal‐sourced foods (ASF). Most current agricultural production practices in SSA coupled with poor management, health challenges and indigenous breeds, result in low crop and livestock productivity and often do not meet local demands. To improve productivity, locally adapted technologies and management practices need to be widely adopted. This special issue is a collection of contributions addressing major aspects of crop and livestock systems in SSA. Key topics addressed include the present status of feedstuff availability in SSA, improved fodder production and utilization practices, new cultivars, soil management, forage conservation, use of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) tools to measure forage nutritive value, and social and economic aspects of crop‐livestock systems. The overarching goal of this special issue is to provide insightful information that can be used for the future development and implementation of efficient and sustainable integrated systems. SSA will have a key role in feeding itself and the world in the future, and livestock systems and cropping practices are crucial components of this process.
Deep tillage and nitrogen do not remediate cumulative soil deterioration effects of continuous cropping
Authors: Rubio Valentina , Quincke Andrés , Ernst Oswaldo
Published: October 2021

Short‐term solutions like increasing N fertilization and decompaction with deep tillage (DT) have been proposed to mitigate soil degradation in continuous cropping systems. However, the joint evaluation of these factors in established no‐till systems is limited. This work aims to quantify corn yield losses generated by the cumulative degradation of soil quality of intensified no‐till cropping systems, quantify to what extent yield losses could be mitigated by soil DT and N fertilization, and identify the most important process involved in yield reductions. Eleven experiments were installed during 2014 and 2015, on a typic Argiudoll with different soil quality generated by more than 50 years of contrasting land uses. A split‐plot design was employed; the main plots were for DT (with and without) whereas the subplots were four N rates (0, 60, 120, and 240 kg ha−1). Overall, soil physical quality (SPQ) and carbon losses were associated with yield depletions. An increase in bulk density of 0.1 g cm−3 was associated with a 15.8% yield decrease. Deep tillage improved SPQ and modified water and N dynamics. However, these changes were small, variable, and did not affect corn growth. N fertilization improved yields but did not eliminate differences linked with land degradation and previous crop effects. Soil organic carbon had a better association with yields than bulk density, macroporosity, and penetration resistance. The results of this study highlight the importance of evaluating remediation practices to soil degradation under real conditions, regardless of its greater complexity for interpretation.
User‐guided global explanations for deep image recognition: A user study
Authors: Hamidi‐Haines Mandana , Qi Zhongang , Fern Alan , Li Fuxin , Tadepalli Prasad
Published: October 2021

We study a user‐guided approach for producing global explanations of deep networks for image recognition. The global explanations are produced with respect to a test data set and give the overall frequency of different “recognition reasons” across the data. Each reason corresponds to a small number of the most significant human‐recognizable visual concepts used by the network. The key challenge is that the visual concepts cannot be predetermined and those concepts will often not correspond to existing vocabulary or have labeled data sets. We address this issue via an interactive‐naming interface, which allows users to freely cluster significant image regions in the data into visually similar concepts. Our main contribution is a user study on two visual recognition tasks. The results show that the participants were able to produce a small number of visual concepts sufficient for explanation and that there was significant agreement among the concepts, and hence global explanations, produced by different participants.
Microbial effects on plant phenology and fitness
Authors: O'Brien Anna M. , Ginnan Nichole A. , Rebolleda‐Gómez María , Wagner Maggie R.
Published: October 2021

Plant development and the timing of developmental events (phenology) are tightly coupled with plant fitness. A variety of internal and external factors determine the timing and fitness consequences of these life‐history transitions. Microbes interact with plants throughout their life history and impact host phenology. This review summarizes current mechanistic and theoretical knowledge surrounding microbe‐driven changes in plant phenology. Overall, there are examples of microbes impacting every phenological transition. While most studies have focused on flowering time, microbial effects remain important for host survival and fitness across all phenological phases. Microbe‐mediated changes in nutrient acquisition and phytohormone signaling can release plants from stressful conditions and alter plant stress responses inducing shifts in developmental events. The frequency and direction of phenological effects appear to be partly determined by the lifestyle and the underlying nature of a plant–microbe interaction (i.e., mutualistic or pathogenic), in addition to the taxonomic group of the microbe (fungi vs. bacteria). Finally, we highlight biases, gaps in knowledge, and future directions. This biotic source of plasticity for plant adaptation will serve an important role in sustaining plant biodiversity and managing agriculture under the pressures of climate change.
In vitro and in vivo study of carboxymethyl chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol for wound dressing application
Authors: Akbari Alireza , Rabbani Shahram , Irani Shiva , Zandi Mojgan , Sharifi Fereshteh , Ameli Fereshteh , Mohamadali Marjan
Published: October 2021

Antibacterial, good biosafety, and wound healing enhancers, are the most favorable factors for wound dressing. Designing nanomaterial of the scaffold for supporting skin regeneration is a complicated process. Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) structure similar to the glycosaminoglycan and antibacterial activity combined with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (PVA/CMC) can lead to satisfactory properties for wound management. In this study, a collection of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds are fabricated by blending the constant PVA concentration (9%) with a limited area of CMC concentration (2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%). PVA/CMC scaffolds characteristic was investigated through a scanning electron microscope, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and contact angle tests. The fiber diameter values were measured for PVA (144.60 nm), chitosan (131.57 nm), and average different concentration of CMC in PVA/CMC (104.7 ± 2.45 nm). In vitro potential of the scaffolds were evaluated by using human dermal fibroblast cells and human placental‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. According to in vitro results, PVA/CMC4% scaffold was selected as the optimized wound dressing for skin tissue engineering. The in vivo wound healing data in rat models illustrated more healing capacity of PVA/CMC4% dressing in which accelerating wound closure and freshly healed tissue with high similarity to the normal skin was reorganized.
Preparation of bagworm silk/polyaniline composite
Authors: Komaba Kyoka , Goto Hiromasa
Published: October 2021

Bagworm silk (BS) is the strongest natural fiber as known. We present the development of a bagworm‐based conducting synthetic/natural fiber composite for creating a flexible and strong textile. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, reflection UV–vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron spin resonance, and a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) were used to evaluate the composite. BS/PANI sheet resistivity was 1.0 × 102 kΩ/cm. The electrical conductivity measurements and magnetic measurements evaluated that the charge carriers of the composite were radical cations (polarons) of polyaniline.
Pregnancy Outcomes in Women With Psoriatic Arthritis in Relation to Presence and Timing of Antirheumatic Treatment
Authors: Remaeus Katarina , Johansson Kari , Granath Fredrik , Stephansson Olof , Hellgren Karin
Published: October 2021

Objective

To evaluate pregnancy outcomes in relation to antirheumatic treatment before and during pregnancy, as a proxy of disease severity in pregnant women with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), compared to those without PsA.

Methods

Our study focused on a Swedish nationwide registry–based cohort study that included 921 PsA pregnancies and 9,210 non‐PsA pregnancies occurring between 2007 and 2017 (matched 1:10 based on maternal age, year of delivery, and parity). We estimated adjusted odds ratios (ORs) overall, with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), and stratified by presence, timing, and type of antirheumatic treatment. Adjustments were made for maternal body mass index, smoking, education level, and country of birth. The outcome of preterm birth was also stratified by parity.

Results

Pregnant women with PsA versus those without PsA were more obese, more often smokers, and more frequently had a diagnosis of pregestational hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Increased risks in PsA pregnancies versus non‐PsA pregnancies were primarily preterm birth (adjusted OR 1.69 [95% CI 1.27–2.24]) and cesarean delivery (adjusted OR 1.77 [95% CI 1.43–2.20] for elective delivery, and adjusted OR 1.42 [95% CI 1.10–1.84] for emergency delivery). The risks differed according to the presence, timing, and type of antirheumatic treatment, with the most increased risk in PsA pregnancies (versus non‐PsA) occurring with antirheumatic treatment during pregnancy (adjusted OR 2.30 [95% CI 1.49–3.56] for preterm birth). The corresponding adjusted OR for preterm birth in women with PsA who were exposed specifically to biologic treatment during pregnancy was 4.49 [95% CI 2.60–7.79]. Risk of preterm birth was primarily increased in first pregnancies.

Conclusion

Compared to non‐PsA pregnancies, risks of preterm birth and cesarean delivery were mostly increased in those exposed to antirheumatic treatment during pregnancy, especially biologic treatments. As parity influences the risk of preterm birth in women with PsA, special attention to first pregnancies is warranted. Women with PsA should receive individualized monitoring during pregnancy.
Understanding the effects of message cues on COVID‐19 information sharing on Twitter
Authors: Zheng Han , Goh Dion Hoe‐Lian , Lee Edmund Wei Jian , Lee Chei Sian , Theng Yin‐Leng
Published: October 2021

Analyzing and documenting human information behaviors in the context of global public health crises such as the COVID‐19 pandemic are critical to informing crisis management. Drawing on the Elaboration Likelihood Model, this study investigates how three types of peripheral cues—content richness, emotional valence, and communication topic—are associated with COVID‐19 information sharing on Twitter. We used computational methods, combining Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic modeling with psycholinguistic indicators obtained from the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count dictionary to measure these concepts and built a research model to assess their effects on information sharing. Results showed that content richness was negatively associated with information sharing. Tweets with negative emotions received more user engagement, whereas tweets with positive emotions were less likely to be disseminated. Further, tweets mentioning advisories tended to receive more retweets than those mentioning support and news updates. More importantly, emotional valence moderated the relationship between communication topics and information sharing—tweets discussing news updates and support conveying positive sentiments led to more information sharing; tweets mentioning the impact of COVID‐19 with negative emotions triggered more sharing. Finally, theoretical and practical implications of this study are discussed in the context of global public health communication.
Dynamic Visualization of Free Radicals at Single Oxygen Bubbles using Chemiluminescence
Authors: Xu Yanyan , Liu Kang , Jin Rong , Jiang Dechen , Fang Danjun
Published: October 2021

The generation of free radicals is a key process in the formation and the collapse of the bubbles in water, however, the direct and dynamic observation of the radicals in this process at single bubbles has never been achieved. Here, the hydroxyl (OH.) and oxygen (O2.−) radicals at single oxygen bubbles are continuously traced using chemiluminescence (CL), in which these radicals at the bubble react with the surrounding luminol in the solution emitting the light. Varied increase trends of luminescence are observed in the generation of a bubble, floating, short parking at the water/air interface and the final explosion, revealing the complexity in the distribution of radicals at the bubble unprecedentedly. Despite more radicals are observed at the bubble generated at a deep position under the water for the stabilization, almost the same amount of radicals are included in the bubbles that is independent on the water pressure during the production of the bubble. This rich information collected from the dynamic study of bubbles illustrates the complicated generation and distribution process of radicals at the bubbles, and will facilitate the understanding of the function about the bubbles.
Polyelectrolyte/Gold Nanoparticle Nanotubes Incorporating Doxorubicin‐Loaded Liposomes
Authors: Enomoto Yuto , Akiyama Motofusa , Morita Yoshitsugu , Komatsu Teruyuki
Published: October 2021

Anticancer agent doxorubicin‐loaded liposomes (DoxLs) were drawn spontaneously into nanotubes comprising multilayers of polyelectrolytes and gold nanoparticles (PAuNTs). We describe a unique structure of PAuNTs incorporating DoxLs (DoxL‐PAuNT). The number of DoxLs adsorbed on the tube interior surface was ascertained as 2.4×103. Heating stimuli engendered gel‐liquid crystal phase transition of DoxL in the capillary, subsequently inducing efficient release of Dox without structural changes of the tubule or liposome. Furthermore, antitumor activity of the DoxL‐PAuNTs on cancer cells was elucidated.
Ratiometric Detection of microRNA Using Hybridization Chain Reaction and Fluorogenic Silver Nanoclusters
Authors: Wong Zheng Wei , Ng Jeck Fei , New Siu Yee
Published: October 2021

miRNA (miR)‐155 is a potential biomarker for breast cancers. We aimed at developing a nanosensor for miR‐155 detection by integrating hybridization chain reaction (HCR) and silver nanoclusters (AgNCs). HCR serves as an enzyme‐free and isothermal amplification method, whereas AgNCs provide a built‐in fluorogenic detection probe that could simplify the downstream analysis. The two components were integrated by adding a nucleation sequence of AgNCs to the hairpin of HCR. The working principle was based on the influence of microenvironment towards the hosted AgNCs, whereby unfolding of hairpin upon HCR has manipulated the distance between the hosted AgNCs and cytosine‐rich toehold region of hairpin. As such, the dominant emission of AgNCs changed from red to yellow in the absence and presence of miR‐155, enabling a ratiometric measurement of miR with high sensitivity. The limit of detection (LOD) of our HCR‐AgNCs nanosensor is 1.13 fM in buffered solution. We have also tested the assay in diluted serum samples, with comparable LOD of 1.58 fM obtained. This shows the great promise of our HCR‐AgNCs nanosensor for clinical application.
Vaccine and vaccination as a part of human life: In view of COVID‐19
Authors: K.B. Megha , Nayar Seema A. , P.V. Mohanan
Published: October 2021

Background

Vaccination created a great breakthrough toward the improvement to the global health. The development of vaccines and their use made a substantial decrease and control in infectious diseases. The abundance and emergence of new vaccines has facilitated targeting populations to alleviate and eliminate contagious pathogens from their innate reservoir. However, along with the infections like malaria and HIV, effective immunization remains obscure and imparts a great challenge to science.

Purpose and scope

The novel Corona virus SARS‐CoV‐2 is the reason for the 2019 COVID‐19 pandemic in the human global population, in the first half of 2019. The need for establishing a protected and compelling COVID‐19 immunization is a global prerequisite to end this pandemic.

Summary and conclusion

The different vaccine technologies like inactivation, attenuation, nucleic acid, viral vector, subunit, and viral particle based techniques are employed to develop a safe and highly efficient vaccine. The progress in vaccine development for SARS‐CoV2 is much faster in the history of science. Even though there exist of lot of limitations, continuous efforts has put forward so as to develop highly competent and effective vaccine for many human and animal linked diseases due to its unlimited prospective. This review article focuses on the historical outlook and the development of the vaccine as it is a crucial area of research where the life of the human is saved from various potential diseases.
Predictors of activities of daily living in heathy older adults: Who benefits most from online cognitive training?
Authors: Roheger Mandy , Kalbe Elke , Corbett Anne , Brooker Helen , Ballard Clive
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To investigate the course of activities of daily living (IADL) functioning and possible predictors of performance changes in healthy older adults conducting either a General Cognitive Training (GCT) or a Reasoning Cognitive Training (ReaCT) or no training (control group, CG) over a period of 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months.

Setting and participants

An online, home‐based GCT and ReaCT including n = 2913 healthy participants (GCT: n = 1096; ReaCT: n = 1022; CG: n = 794) aged 60 years and older.

Methods

Multilevel analysis were calculated to explore the nature of our outcome variables of IADL part A (independence) and part B (difficulty of tasks), and to detect possible predictors for participants’ performance on IADL after CT.

Results

The random slopes models fitted better for the outcomes IADL Part B in the GCT group (χ2(2) =  18.78, p < .01), and both IADL Part A and Part B in the ReaCT group (χ2(2) =   28.57, p < .01; χ2(2) =   63.38, p < .01, respectively), indicating different changes over time for individual participants. Female sex was a significant predictor of IADL change in the ReaCT group, showing that females benefited most in both IADL scores (IADL A: 0.01, p < .01; IADL B: 0.004, p < .01). No other significant predictors for IADL changes were identified.

Conclusion and implication

The particular effectiveness in women is of clinical relevance, as IADL is typically more impaired in women than in men in advanced age. Following a personalized medicine approach, identifying predictors of non‐pharmacological intervention success is of utmost importance.
Mental health leave requires careful attention to policy, process
Authors: Porter Michael
Published: October 2021

From athletes like Simone Biles and Kevin Love to binge‐worthy TV series like Ted Lasso and social media campaigns, mental health awareness is at an all‐time high. Even pre‐pandemic, mental health increasingly drew attention on campus, and the recent enhanced awareness means students are more likely to recognize mental health concerns and take advantage of relevant resources and processes. Institutions are more likely to be assessing their resources, policies, and procedures related to supporting students with mental health concerns and addressing challenges that arise when students have significant mental health needs.
Understand practical application for complying with NCAA policy on campus sexual violence
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: October 2021

The NCAA has continued to enhance its approach to preventing and addressing sexual violence since 2010. In support of that effort, the NCAA initially provided and later updated a comprehensive toolkit with suggested actions for member institutions to help guide them in developing and implementing effective practices, procedures, and education on the subject. (See https://ncaaorg.s3.amazonaws.com/ssi/violence/SSI_SexualViolencePreventionToolkit.pdf.)
Clinical implications of using both fluoropyrimidine and paclitaxel in patients with severe peritoneal metastasis of gastric cancer: A post hoc study of JCOG1108/WJOG7312G
Authors: Arai Hiroyuki , Inoue Eisuke , Yamaguchi Kensei , Boku Narikazu , Hara Hiroki , Nishina Tomohiro , Tsuda Masahiro , Shitara Kohei , Shinozaki Katsunori , Nakamura Shinichiro , Hyodo Ichinosuke , Muro Kei , Sasako Mitsuru , Terashima Masanori , Nakajima Takako E.
Published: October 2021

Background

In the JCOG1108/WJOG7312G trial, a combination (FLTAX) of 5‐fluorouracil (FU) /leucovorin (FL) and paclitaxel (PTX) did not show superiority in overall survival (OS) to FL in untreated patients with severe peritoneal metastasis of gastric cancer (GC‐SPM), some of whom received second‐line chemotherapy with PTX after FL. This post hoc study aimed to investigate the clinical implications of using both FU and PTX either sequentially or in combination for patients with GC‐SPM.

Methods

A total of 94 patients were enrolled and categorized into the following three subgroups: patients treated with (1) FL followed by PTX (FL/PTX, N = 25), (2) FL followed by best supportive care (BSC) (FL/BSC, N = 21), and (3) FLTAX (N = 48). OS was compared between the subgroups. By comparing baseline factors between the FL/PTX and FL/BSC subgroups, factors preventing the sequential use of PTX (SUP) were explored using logistic regression model. The efficacy of FL and FLTAX was compared according to the presence of risk factors preventing SUP.

Results

The FL/PTX subgroup showed better and equivalent OS compared to the FL/BSC (median 7.8 vs. 2.0 months, p < 0.01) and FLTAX (median 7.8 vs. 8.0, p = 0.49) subgroups, respectively. Glasgow Prognostic Score 2 and initially unresectable disease were identified as risk factors preventing SUP. Absence of both risks predicted SUP with a sensitivity of 13% and a specificity of 100%, whereas absence of any risks predicted SUP with a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 62%. FLTAX showed better OS than FL in patients with one or two of these risks but worse OS in those with none.

Conclusions

Although sequential use of FU and PTX showed equivalent survival to FLTAX in patients with GC‐SPM, FLTAX might be preferable given the difficulty in selecting patients likely to receive sequential use at the initiation of first‐line chemotherapy.
Ixazomib‐based maintenance therapy after bortezomib‐based induction in patients with multiple myeloma not undergoing transplantation: A real‐world study
Authors: Shen Man , Zhang Jiajia , Tang Ran , Wang Yuhao , Zhan Xiaokai , Fan Sibin , Huang Zhongxia , Zhong Yuping , Li Xin
Published: October 2021

Background

Maintenance therapy with proteasome inhibitors (PIs) can improve outcomes of multiple myeloma (MM) patients, however, the neurotoxicity and parenteral route of bortezomib limit its long‐term use. An efficacious, tolerable, and convenient PI option is needed.

Methods

In this single‐center, real‐world study, we retrospectively analyzed the outcome and safety profile of ixazomib‐based maintenance therapy in patients who plateaued with the responses of steady disease or better after bortezomib‐based induction therapy in MM patients not undergoing transplantation.

Results

Of all the 71 patients, 37 cases (52.1%) were newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) and 34 cases (47.9%) were relapsed and/or refractory MM (RRMM). The overall response rate (ORR) was 81.7%, including 34 patients (47.9%) with a very good response rate or better (≥VGPR) after a median of nine cycles (6–14) of bortezomib‐based induction therapy. Then the ORR was transformed to 74.6% including 39 patients of ≥VGPR (54.9%) after a median of six courses (2–25) of ixazomib‐based maintenance therapy. Of these, 18 patients (25.4%) exhibited responses deepened. With 26.5 months median follow‐up, median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 28.4 and 16.5 months from the start of bortezomib and 16.2 and 10.0 months from the initiation of ixazomib in NDMM and RRMM group, respectively. Moreover, responses deepened during the maintenance phase (hazard ratio: 0.270, p = 0.007), and responses of ≥VGPR during the induction phase (hazard ratio: 0.218, p < 0.001) were confirmed to independently predict longer PFS after multivariate analyses. Severe adverse events (grade 3/4) were relatively rare. Bortezomib‐emergent peripheral neuritis (PN) was significantly relived after the transition to ixazomib (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This real‐world analysis has demonstrated oral ixazomib is a favorable option of long‐term administration for maintenance with efficacy and feasibility and confirmed the association between deepening responses with ixazomib and prolonged PFS.
Anti‐Food Allergic Alkaloids from the Lotus Seed Pot
Authors: Cao Tuan‐Wu , Xie Chun‐Lan , Chen Chao‐Qun , He Zhi‐Hui , Yan Qing‐Xiang , Xu Gang , Yang Xian‐Wen
Published: October 2021

Lotus seed pod (LSP) has been used as traditional herbal cuisine to modulate immunity. From the AcOEt‐soluble extract of LSP, one new aporphine alkaloid, N‐[2‐(2H‐phenanthro[3,4‐d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)ethyl]acetamide (nelunucine A, 1) was obtained along with 19 known ones. Their structures were established by detailed analysis of the 1D‐, 2D‐NMR, and HR‐ESI‐MS data. N‐Nornuciferine (9) and lirinidine (10) showed potent in vitro anti‐food allergic activity with IC50 values of 40.0 and 55.4 μM, respectively, compared to 91.4 μM for loratadine, the positive control.
Why does a natural myringostapediopexy cause minimal hearing loss?
Authors: Penjor Dorji
Published: October 2021

Natural myringostapediopexy is a result of tympanic membrane retraction with automastoidectomy that causes the tympanic membrane to plaster onto the stapes directly. It causes minimal conductive hearing impairment.
Azathioprine‐induced pellagra in a child with autoimmune hepatitis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Abtahi‐Naeini Bahareh , Rajabi Parvin , Dehghani Shakiba
Published: October 2021

Pellagra is a clinical syndrome resulting from niacin deficiency with variety of manifestations. Azathioprine is among drugs that can lead to such condition. Physicians should be aware as proper management can lead to full resolution.
Clinical approach to a child with poikiloderma: A case report
Authors: Shrestha Samir , Agrawal Sudha
Published: October 2021

There are various causes of childhood poikiloderma. A proper history and clinical examination may help to get conclusion and narrow down the differentials for the causes of poikiloderma.
CYP2C19 Loss‐of‐function Polymorphisms are Associated with Reduced Risk of Sulfonylurea Treatment Failure in Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wang Ke , Yang Aimin , Shi Mai , Tam Claudia C. H. , Lau Eric S. H. , Fan Baoqi , Lim Cadmon K. P. , Lee Heung Man , Kong Alice P. S. , Luk Andrea O. Y. , Tomlinson Brian , Ma Ronald C. W. , Chan Juliana C. N. , Chow Elaine
Published: October 2021

Sulfonylureas (SUs) are predominantly metabolized by cytochrome p450 2C9 (CYP2C9) and cytochrome p450 2C19 (CYP2C19) enzymes. CYP2C9 polymorphisms are associated with greater treatment response and hypoglycemic risk in SU users. However, there are no large scale pharmacogenetic studies investigating the effect of loss‐of‐function alleles CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3, which occur frequently in East Asians. Retrospective pharmacogenetic analysis was performed in 11,495 genotyped patients who were enrolled in the Hong Kong Diabetes Register between 1995 and 2017, with follow‐up to December 31, 2019. The associations of CYP2C19 polymorphisms with SU treatment failure, early HbA1c response, and severe hypoglycemia were analyzed by Cox regression or logistic regression assuming an additive genetic model. There were 2341 incident SU users that were identified (mean age 59 years, median diabetes duration 9 years), of which 324 were CYP2C19 poor metabolizers (CYP2C19 *2/*2 or *2/*3 or *3/*3). CYP2C19 poor metabolizers had lower risk of SU treatment failure (hazard ratio 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72–0.97, P = 0.018) and were more likely to reach the HbA1c treatment target < 7% (odds ratio 1.52, 95% CI 1.02–2.27, P = 0.039) than wild‐type carriers (CYP2C19 *1/*1) following adjustment for multiple covariates. There were no significant differences in severe hypoglycemia rates among different CYP2C19 genotype groups. CYP2C19 polymorphisms should be considered during personalization of SU therapy.