bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunochemical biosensor for single virus particle detection based on molecular crowding polyelectrolyte system
Authors: Baldina Anna A. , Nikolaev Konstantin G. , Ivanov Artemii S. , Nikitina Anna A. , Rubtsova Maya Yu. , Vorovitch Mikhail F. , Ishmukhametov Aydar A. , Egorov Alex M. , Skorb Ekaterina V.
Published: March 2022

To improve the effectiveness of the viral infection diagnostic, we offer a new approach of immunochemical biosensors to determine single viral particles by specific antibodies. The antibodies are immobilized on the electrodes in a three‐dimensional polymer matrix with several layers of polyelectrolytes on the screen‐printed carbon electrode. Non‐covalent immobilization of antibodies in successive layers of positively charged polyethyleneimine (PEI) and negatively charged polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) achieves the effect of macromolecular crowding. Such an immobilization approach promotes the preservation of the optimal conformation and antibody active center mobility for interaction with large virion particles. We established an electrochemical biosensor for tick‐borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) detection to demonstrate the method's applicability. Under the optimized architecture of the 3D‐matrix, including a combination of two layers of a positively charged PEI with antibodies and the last layer of a negatively charged PSS, the assay is characterized by an extremely low limit of detection (LOD). This LOD could be as few as five viral particles in a sample volume of 5 μl, which is two orders of magnitude lower than conventional ELISA with the same reagents. The advantage of the biosensor is also a wide linear range of detection from 103 to 109 viral particles/ml. The proposed principle for determining virion particles is well suited to novel express diagnostics and Point‐of‐Care viral infections detection.
Effect of mechanical properties on the self‐healing behavior of waterborne polyurethane coatings
Authors: Zhang Aiqin , Li Jing , Fan Haojun , Xiang Jun , Wang Li , Yan Jun
Published: March 2022

The effect of structural parameters such as hard segment content and cross‐linking degree on the mechanical properties of waterborne self‐healing polyurethane and the effect of tensile strength, self‐healing conditions (temperature, time) on the self‐healing properties were investigated. These results demonstrated that as the increasing of the content of hard segments/the cross‐linking agent, the tensile strength of the sample increased and the self‐healing performance exhibited a downward trend. When the tensile strength reached 40 MPa, it could hardly healed, even if prolonging the self‐healing time or increasing the self‐healing temperature. Mechanism study demonstrated that the self‐healing ability was attributed to the dynamic exchange of disulfide bonds and the thermal reversibility of hydrogen bonds in the system. Hydrogen bonding could provide the initial self‐healing force and promote the dynamic exchange reaction of disulfide bonds, while high hydrogen bonding is not conducive to the movement of macromolecular segments, causing a decrease in the self‐healing efficiency.
Checkpoint inhibitor/interleukin‐based combination therapy of cancer
Authors: Mortezaee Keywan , Majidpoor Jamal
Published: March 2022

Background

Immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is the current focus in cancer immunotherapy. However, issues are raised in the area, as the recent studies showed that such therapeutic modality suffers from low durability and low or no efficacy for patients with some tumor types including cases with non‐inflamed or cold cancers. Therefore, efforts have been made to solve the issue using immune combination therapy, such as the use of immunocytokines. The combination of ICI with interleukins (ILs) and IL‐targeting agents is now under consideration in the area of therapy, and the primary results are promising.

Purpose

The focus of this review is to discuss the possibility of using ILs and IL‐targeting drugs in combination with ICI in cancer immunotherapy and describing recent advances in the field using PEGylated ILs and fusion proteins. The key focus in this area is to reduce adverse events and to increase the efficacy and durability of such combination therapy.
Cerebellar infarction as the initial presentation of IgG4‐related disease
Authors: Ireifej Branden , Dhamrah Umaima , Song David , Bitar Joyce , Jaiswal Vikash , Nepal Gaurav , Pathak Nibesh , Freijat Majd
Published: March 2022

Although IgG4‐RD has CNS manifestations, cerebellar involvement has only been reported in three cases. Our patient presented with cerebellar symptoms, several cerebellar infarcts were evident on the brain MRI, and CT abdomen revealed retroperitoneal tumor. Endoscopic biopsy confirmed IgG4‐RD. Steroids are the first‐line therapy for IgG4‐RD, but our patient was lost to follow‐up before treatment.
Highly Porous Gold Electrodes – Preparation and Characterization
Authors: Othman Ali , Bilan Hubert K. , Katz Evgeny , Smutok Oleh
Published: March 2022

Gold screen printed electrodes (Au‐SPEs) were treated electrochemically to produce a micro‐rough pattern increasing the real electrode surface. The procedure based on the Dynamic Hydrogen Bubble Template (DHBT) method included electrochemical deposition of Au layers onto the surface of the Au‐SPEs, followed by a reductive process at −3 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) leading to formation of H2 bubbles, which produced pores in the Au multilayer. The morphology of the micro‐porous Au electrode was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface mapping, surface profilometry, and confocal microscopy. The electrode surface morphology was controlled by the time of the electrode reductive treatment (H2 evolution) and the optimized condition resulting in the best surface structuring was found. Notably, the surface roughness leading to the highest electrode surface area was significantly increased compared to previously reported results with Au‐SPEs.
Photochemical and Electrochemical Strategies for Hydrodefluorination of Fluorinated Organic Compounds
Authors: Yan Guobing
Published: March 2022

Hydrodefluorination (HDF) is a very important fundamental transformation for conversion of the C−F bond into the C−H bond in organic synthesis. In the past decade, much progress has been achieved with HDF through the utility of low‐valent metals, transition‐metal complexes and main‐group Lewis acids. Recently, novel methods have been introduced for this purpose through photo‐ and electrochemical pathways, which are of great significance, due to their considerable environmental and economical advantages. This Review highlights the HDF of fluorinated organic compounds (FOCs) through photo‐ and electrochemical strategies, along with mechanistic insights.
Integrated Multiscale Modeling of Solid Oxide Electrodes, Cells, Stacks, and Systems
Authors: Banerjee Aayan
Published: March 2022

An integrated multiscale multiphysics framework to model solid oxide electrochemical cell systems is discussed. The framework directly couples electrode, single cell, stack, and system models using a hierarchical approach with minimal loss of information across the scales. The success of the model framework in better understanding solid oxide cells at the microscale and the industrial scale showcases it as a powerful tool for the rational design and upscaling of novel lab‐scale materials and devices for next‐generation chemical and electrochemical technologies.
Revealing Formaldehyde Fluxes in Alzheimer's Disease Brain by an Activity‐Based Fluorescence Probe
Authors: Wang Pengzhan , Cheng Xianhua , Xiong Jianhua , Mao Zhiqiang , Liu Zhihong
Published: March 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Formaldehyde (FA) plays critical roles in Alzheimer's disease and the associations between FA and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are still obscure. To reveal FA fluxes in the Alzheimer's disease brain, an activity‐based fluorescence probe NP‐FA with superb blood‐brain barrier permeable abilities was exquisitely designed. The probe responded to FA with significant fluorescence increases (F/F0 = 81), thus laying the foundation for the sensitive detection of FA in cuvette and in vivo. Moreover, the probe also possessed some fascinating performances, including endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐targeting abilities, good one‐photon/two‐photon absorption properties, and appropriate hydrophobicity property (log P = 2.34 ± 0.05). As a result, the probe can readily reflect the overproduction of FA content in live cells under ER stress by high‐fidelity two‐photon imaging. More interestingly, ex vivo imaging of AD brains and two‐photon imaging of AD slice tissues visually disclosed that the FA level of AD brain is much higher than that of the normal brain. This work afforded a specific activity‐based probe for the imaging of FA in the AD mouse brains, which could be further extended to FA‐related studies in Alzheimer's disease.
Cavotricuspid isthmus ablation guided by force‐time integral – A randomized study
Authors: Asvestas Dimitrios , Sousonis Vasileios , Kotsovolis George , Karanikas Stavros , Xintarakou Anastasia , Sakadakis Eleftherios , Rigopoulos Angelos G. , Kalogeropoulos Andreas S. , Vardas Panos , Tzeis Stylianos
Published: March 2022

Background

Force‐time integral (FTI) is an ablation marker of lesion quality and transmurality. A target FTI of 400 gram‐seconds (gs) has been shown to improve durability of pulmonary vein isolation, following atrial fibrillation ablation. However, relevant targets for cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation are lacking.

Hypothesis

We sought to investigate whether CTI ablation with 600 gs FTI lesions is associated with reduced rate of transisthmus conduction recovery compared to 400 gs lesions.

Methods

Fifty patients with CTI‐dependent flutter were randomized to ablation using 400 gs (FTI400 group, n = 26) or 600 gs FTI lesions (FTI600 group, n = 24). The study endpoint was spontaneous or adenosine‐mediated recovery of transisthmus conduction, after a 20‐min waiting period.

Results

The study endpoint occurred in five patients (19.2%) in group FTI400 and in four patients (16.7%) in group FTI600, p = .81. First‐pass CTI block was similar in both groups (50% in FTI400 vs. 54.2% in FTI600, p = .77). There were no differences in the total number of lesions, total ablation time, procedure time and fluoroscopy duration between the two groups. There were no major complications in any group. In the total population, patients not achieving first‐pass CTI block had significantly higher rate of acute CTI conduction recovery, compared to those with first‐pass block (29.2% vs. 7.7% respectively, p = .048).

Conclusions

CTI ablation using 600 gs FTI lesions is not associated with reduced spontaneous or adenosine‐mediated recurrence of transisthmus conduction, compared to 400 gs lesions.
Reporting on circulating tumor DNA monitoring in metastatic cancer—From clinical validity to clinical utility
Authors: Brenner Thomsen Caroline , Dandanell Juul Amanda , Lefèvre Anna Cecilie , Glismand Truelsen Christina , Dizdarevic Edina , Ryssel Heidi , Mathilde Kjær Ina , Lycke Wind Karen , Callesen Louise Bach , Faaborg Larsen Louise , Støchkel Frank Malene , Fredslund Andersen Rikke , Garm Spindler Karen‐Lise , Jakobsen Anders
Published: March 2022

This commentary attempts to discuss the required standardization of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analyses and thereby improve the clinical validity of ctDNA monitoring in the metastatic setting of solid tumors.
Structural and molecular characterization of paraventricular thalamic glucokinase‐expressing neuronal circuits in the mouse
Authors: Gaspari Sevasti , Quenneville Simon , Rodriguez Sanchez‐Archidona Ana , Thorens Bernard , Croizier Sophie
Published: March 2022

The thalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVT) is a structure highly interconnected with several nuclei ranging from forebrain to hypothalamus and brainstem. Numerous rodent studies have examined afferent and efferent connections of the PVT and their contribution to behavior, revealing its important role in the integration of arousal cues. However, the majority of these studies used a region‐oriented approach, without considering the neuronal subtype diversity of the nucleus. In the present study, we provide the anatomical and transcriptomic characterization of a subpopulation of PVT neurons molecularly defined by the expression of glucokinase (Gck). Combining a genetically modified mouse model with viral tracing approaches, we mapped both the anterograde and the retrograde projections of Gck‐positive neurons of the anterior PVT (GckaPVT). Our results demonstrated that GckaPVT neurons innervate several nuclei throughout the brain axis. The strongest connections are with forebrain areas associated with reward and stress and with hypothalamic structures involved in energy balance and feeding regulation. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis of the Gck‐expressing neurons revealed that they are enriched in receptors for hypothalamic‐derived neuropeptides, adhesion molecules, and obesity and diabetes susceptibility transcription factors. Using retrograde labeling combined with immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, we identify that GckaPVT neurons receive direct inputs from well‐defined hypothalamic populations, including arginine‐vasopressin‐, melanin‐concentrating hormone‐, orexin‐, and proopiomelanocortin‐expressing neurons. This detailed anatomical and transcriptomic characterization of GckaPVT neurons provides a basis for functional studies of the integration of homeostatic and hedonic aspects of energy homeostasis, and for deciphering the potential role of these neurons in obesity and diabetes development.
Bayesian optimisation for efficient parameter inference in a cardiac mechanics model of the left ventricle
Authors: Borowska Agnieszka , Gao Hao , Lazarus Alan , Husmeier Dirk
Published: March 2022

We consider parameter inference in cardio‐mechanic models of the left ventricle, in particular the one based on the Holtzapfel‐Ogden (HO) constitutive law, using clinical in vivo data. The equations underlying these models do not admit closed form solutions and hence need to be solved numerically. These numerical procedures are computationally expensive making computational run times associated with numerical optimisation or sampling excessive for the uptake of the models in the clinical practice. To address this issue, we adopt the framework of Bayesian optimisation (BO), which is an efficient statistical technique of global optimisation. BO seeks the optimum of an unknown black‐box function by sequentially training a statistical surrogate‐model and using it to select the next query point by leveraging the associated exploration‐exploitation trade‐off. To guarantee that the estimates based on the in vivo data are realistic also for high‐pressures, unobservable in vivo, we include a penalty term based on a previously published empirical law developed using ex vivo data. Two case studies based on real data demonstrate that the proposed BO procedure outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art inference algorithm for the HO constitutive law.
Do ESG reporting guidelines and verifications enhance firms' information disclosure?
Authors: Darnall Nicole , Ji Hyunjung , Iwata Kazuyuki , Arimura Toshi H.
Published: March 2022

Environment, social, and governance (ESG) reporting guidelines are institutional rules that can enhance the credibility of firms' publicly disclosed information related to ESG. Reporting is often voluntary and global ESG reporting guidelines typically rely on process‐focused third party verification. However, in developing its reporting guidelines, the Japanese government gave firms the unusual option of pursuing either process‐ or content‐focused verification. This paper draws on the unique Japanese setting to examine whether firms that use ESG reporting guidelines increase their quantity of disclosed sustainability information. Furthermore, it assesses whether, given the option, (1) firms tend to pursue process‐ or content‐focused verification, and (2) which type of verification leads to greater information disclosure. We show that firms that follow ESG guidelines disclose 39% more sustainability information compared to firms that publish sustainability reports but do not follow ESG reporting guidelines. Content‐focused verification leads to greater information disclosure than process‐focused verification in that firms publish 23% more text in their sustainability reports. Moreover, given the option, firms prefer to use content‐ over process‐focused verification. However, most global ESG reporting guidelines endorse process‐focused verification and this verification is less effective than content‐focused verification at encouraging firms' information disclosure. Our findings raise a timely and relevant question about the movement by global ESG standard developers to promote process‐ rather than content‐focused verification. They also suggest that firms that wish to create sustainability distinction by way of ESG reporting may benefit by advocating for more robust forms of verification.
Shape‐Dependent Performance of Cu/Cu2O for Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2
Authors: Zheng Yuke , Duan Zitao , Liang Ruoxuan , Lv Ruiqi , Wang Chong , Zhang Zhaoxia , Wan Shaolong , Wang Shuai , Xiong Haifeng , Ngaw Chee Keong , Lin Jingdong , Wang Yong
Published: March 2022

The photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into solar fuels or chemicals is a sustainable approach to relieve the immediate problems related to global warming and the energy crisis. This study concerns the effects of morphological control on a Cu/Cu2O‐based photocatalyst for CO2 reduction. The as‐synthesized spherical Cu/Cu2O photocatalyst exhibits higher activity than the octahedral one under visible light irradiation. The difference in photocatalytic performance between these two catalysts could be attributed to the following two factors: (1) The multifaceted structure of spherical Cu/Cu2O favors charge separation; (2) octahedral Cu/Cu2O only contains more positively charged (111) facets, which are unfavorable for CO2 photoreduction. The results further highlight the importance of utilizing crystal facet engineering to further improve the performance of CO2 reduction photocatalysts.
In situ imaging for tumor microbiome interactions via imaging mass cytometry on single‐cell level
Authors: Feng Zijian , Hu Yuli , Wang Xin , Li Yiyang , Yu Youyi , He Jie , Li Hongxia , Zhang Ting , Zhang Lulu , Shen Guangxia , Ding Xianting
Published: March 2022

Co‐detection of multiplex cancer subtypes and bacteria subtypes in situ is crucial for understanding tumor microbiome interactions in tumor microenvironment. Current standard techniques such as immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence staining are limited for their multiplicity. Simultaneously visualizing detailed cell subtypes and bacteria distribution across the same pathological section remains a major technical challenge. Herein, we developed a rapid semi‐quantitative method for in situ imaging of bacteria and multiplex cell phenotypes on the same solid tumor tissue sections. We designed a panel of antibody probes labeled with mass tags, namely prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell hybrid probes for in situ imaging (PEHPSI). For application demonstration, PEHPSI stained two bacteria subtypes (lipopolysaccharides (LPS) for Gram‐negative bacteria and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) for Gram‐positive bacteria) simultaneously with four types of immune cells (leukocytes, CD8 + T‐cells, B‐cells and macrophages) and four breast cancer subtypes (classified by a panel of 12 human proteins) on the same tissue section. We unveiled that breast cancer cells are commonly enriched with Gram‐negative bacteria and almost absent of Gram‐positive bacteria, regardless of the cancer subtypes (triple‐negative breast cancer [TNBC], HER2+, Luminal A and Luminal B). Further analysis revealed that on the single‐cell level, Gram‐negative bacteria have a significant correlation with CD8 + T‐cells only in HER2+ breast cancer, while PKCD, ER, PR and Ki67 are correlated with Gram‐negative bacteria in the other three subtypes of breast cancers. On the cell population level, in TNBC, CD19 expression intensity is up‐regulated by approximately 25% in bacteria‐enriched cells, while for HER2+, Luminal A and Luminal B breast cancers, the intensity of biomarkers associated with the malignancy, metastasis and proliferation of cancer cells (PKCD, ISG15 and IFI6) is down‐regulated by 29%–38%. The flexible and expandable PEHPSI system permits intuitive multiplex co‐visualization of bacteria and mammalian cells, which facilitates future research on tumor microbiome and tumor pathogenesis.
Association of MRI‐based adrenal gland volume and impaired glucose metabolism in a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Askani Esther , Rospleszcz Susanne , Lorbeer Roberto , Kulka Charlotte , von Krüchten Ricarda , Müller‐Peltzer Katharina , Hasic Dunja , Kellner Elias , Reisert Marco , Rathmann Wolfgang , Peters Annette , Schlett Christopher L. , Bamberg Fabian , Storz Corinna
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess adrenal gland volume by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to study its role as an indirect marker of impaired glucose metabolism and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activation in a population‐based cohort.

Methods

Asymptomatic participants were enrolled in a nested case–control study and underwent a 3‐T MRI, including T1w‐VIBE‐Dixon sequences. For the assessment of adrenal gland volume, adrenal glands were manually segmented in a blinded fashion. Impaired glucose metabolism was determined using fasting glucose and oral glucose tolerance test. Cardiometabolic risk factors were also obtained. Inter‐ and intrareader reliability as well as univariate and multivariate associations were derived.

Results

Among 375 subjects included in the analysis (58.5% male, 56.1 ± 9.1 years), 25.3% participants had prediabetes and 13.6% had type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Total adrenal gland volume was 11.2 ± 4.2 ml and differed significantly between impaired glucose metabolism and healthy controls with largest total adrenal gland volume in T2DM (healthy controls: 10.0 ± 3.9 ml, prediabetes: 12.5 ± 3.8 ml, T2DM: 13.9 ± 4.6 ml; p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, association of T2DM and increased adrenal gland volume was independent of age, sex, hypertension, triglycerides and body mass index (BMI), but was attenuated in subjects with prediabetes after adjustment for BMI.

Conclusions

T2DM is significantly associated with increased adrenal gland volume by MRI in an asymptomatic cohort, independent of age, sex, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and BMI. Adrenal gland volume may represent an indirect marker of impaired glucose metabolism and HPA axis dysfunction.
Human abuse liability assessment of e‐cigarettes: Why, what and how?
Authors: Fearon Ian M.
Published: March 2022

Cigarette smoking is the world's leading cause of preventable death and disease. Alternative nicotine products such as e‐cigarettes have tobacco harm reduction potential, by providing smokers with an alternative form of nicotine delivery but with either the reduced presence or absence of the numerous harmful chemicals found in combustible cigarette smoke. One aspect of importance in determining the potential of e‐cigarettes to provide a viable alternative to combustible cigarettes for smokers is their ability to cause dependence, also known as their abuse liability. E‐cigarettes with little or no abuse liability would be unlikely to be used as a substitute for cigarettes, whereas at least some degree of abuse liability is acknowledged as supportive both to aiding cigarette substitution or complete cessation and to preventing relapse. Given this link between abuse liability and substitution efficacy, human studies assessing the abuse liability of e‐cigarettes are important to determine their true harm reduction potential. In this review, the concept of tobacco product abuse liability is discussed, along with the primary elements—pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (subjective effects)—that need to be assessed to determine abuse liability. The review also presents a number of human abuse liability study design considerations and discusses what existing studies in the literature tell us about the abuse liability and harm reduction potential of e‐cigarettes.
Feasibility of microvolumetric capillary whole blood collections for usage in Athlete Biological Passport analysis
Authors: Goodrum Jenna M. , Lewis Laura A. , Fedoruk Matthew N. , Eichner Daniel , Miller Geoffrey D.
Published: March 2022

The hematological module of the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) represents an important tool in the pursuit to detect blood doping in athletes. Currently, collecting blood samples for ABP analysis can be cumbersome, invasive, and expensive, involving a venous blood draw performed by a trained phlebotomist followed by cold‐chain monitored shipping to the analysis laboratory. Developing innovative methods to collect and transport ABP blood samples while adhering to strict preanalytical and analytical requirements has the potential to greatly increase testing frequency and, consequently, the effectiveness of the ABP program globally. The focus of this study was to compare venous blood collections with capillary blood collections to determine if capillary samples could be used for ABP analysis without sacrificing the analytical integrity required for antidoping testing procedures. In this study, capillary blood was collected using the Tasso+ EDTA device (Tasso, Inc.), a novel microvolumetric device that collects liquid, whole blood from skin capillaries on the upper arm. Excellent laboratory agreement was observed between venous and capillary blood samples for the three main ABP parameters: HGB, RET%, and OFF‐Score. Additionally, the stability of capillary samples after storage at 4°C, similar to what would be required during transport, was acceptable for up to 72 h following collection. Finally, we generated individual ABP profiles using the adaptive model for 10 participants and observed excellent agreement between venous and capillary profiles. These results indicate capillary blood collection is a viable alternative to venous blood collections for ABP analysis.
Dietary preference of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) in south‐eastern Kenya
Authors: Mutoro Noreen M. , Chira Robert , Gichuki Nathan , Kariuki Edward , Eberle Jonas , Habel Jan Christian , Wykstra Mary
Published: March 2022

The conversion of natural ecosystems due to anthropogenic activities has led to the destruction of natural habitats and to the deterioration of habitat quality. Top predators particularly respond sensitively to changes in habitat structures, including the availability of prey. The cheetah Acinonyx jubatus prefers small‐medium‐sized, wild ungulate prey due to the cheetah's morphological adaptations. However, the majority of the species’ population is found beyond protected areas, where habitat structures, species abundances, and community composition are highly influenced by human activities. Only few studies have analyzed the diet preference of cheetahs in relation to prey availability and abundance for rangelands beyond protected areas in Eastern Africa. The study aimed to determine cheetah prey preference in the rangelands of south‐eastern Kenya based on scat analyses. We compared dietary preference of cheetah with prey availability. For this purpose, we conducted standardized game counts. We analyzed 27 cheetah scat samples collected across the same study area where we also conducted game counts. We found that Grant's gazelle Gazella granti contributed the highest portion of cheetah's diet, although Thomson's gazelle Gazella thomsonii was the most abundant medium‐sized ungulate prey in the study areas. We also recorded two primate species, yellow baboon Papio cynocephalus and vervet monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus, as well as the rock hyrax Procavia capensis in the cheetah diet. These species have never been documented as cheetah prey before. Furthermore, our results document livestock as potential prey for cheetahs. These observations underline that cheetah use diverse prey in rangelands outside protected areas, and that the abundance of specific prey does not influence cheetah prey preference.
Late breeding season definitive prebasic molt in males, and late breeding season brood care by females, in central California Wilson’s warblers
Authors: Gilbert William M.
Published: March 2022

I made observations of a central California population of Wilson's Warbler, Cardellina pusilla, after July 1 over 10 breeding seasons. I sighted males in definitive prebasic molt from July 4 (in 2007) to September 1 (in 1999). Most territorial males molted on their breeding territories, and individual molt lasted up to 46 days. Following prebasic molt, territorial males engaged in subdued “post‐molt singing,” which lasted about 7 days in some males, and which I first heard on August 13 (in 2004) and last heard on September 6 (in 1999). I sighted no female in definitive prebasic molt, or in fresh basic plumage, during the study. Of 13 females sighted ≥ July 21, 11 were in late breeding season uniparental brood care, and I could not rule out late brood care for the other two. Most, and possibly all, females not engaged in late season uniparental brood care apparently vacated their breeding territories before July 21. This departure was much earlier than for resident males, the last of which I sighted on September 10 (in 1999). Early‐departing females presumably underwent prebasic molt after July 21 at locations not known. Remaining late‐nesting females must have molted much later than resident males and likely later than early‐departing females, and at locations unknown. I last sighted two uniparental brood‐tending females, still in worn plumage, on August 26 and 29, respectively. Two unique findings of this study are a male/female difference in location of prebasic molt, and a likely dichotomy of prebasic molt timing between females leaving their breeding territories early and those remaining in uniparental brood care. Another finding, post‐molt singing in most and possible all territorial males, is a largely unrecognized behavior, but one previously reported in several passerine species. Post‐molt singing may reliably indicate completion of prebasic molt.
Reduced genetic diversity associated with the northern expansion of an amphibian species with high habitat specialization, Ascaphus truei, resolved using two types of genetic markers
Authors: Mosher Cherie M. , Johnson Chris J. , Murray Brent W.
Published: March 2022

Reconstruction of historical relationships between geographic regions within a species’ range can indicate dispersal patterns and help predict future responses to shifts in climate. Ascaphus truei (coastal tailed frog) is an indicator species of the health of forests and perennial streams in the Coastal and Cascade Mountains of the Pacific Northwest of North America. We used two genetic techniques—microsatellite and genotype‐by‐sequencing (GBS)—to compare the within‐region genetic diversity of populations near the northern extent of the species’ range (British Columbia, Canada) to two geographic regions in British Columbia and two in Washington, USA, moving toward the core of the range. Allelic richness and heterozygosity declined substantially as latitude increased. The northernmost region had the lowest mean expected heterozygosities for both techniques (microsatellite, M = 0.20, SE = 0.080; GBS, M = 0.025, SE = 0.0010) and the southernmost region had the highest (microsatellite, M = 0.88, SE = 0.054; GBS, M = 0.20, SE = 0.0029). The northernmost regions (NC and MC) clustered together in population structure models for both genetic techniques. Our discovery of reduced diversity may have important conservation and management implications for population connectivity and the response of A. truei to climate change.
Samarium(II)‐Promoted Cyclizations of Nonactivated Indolyl Sulfinyl Imines to Polycyclic Tertiary Carbinamines
Authors: Rao Chintada Nageswara , Reissig Hans‐Ulrich
Published: March 2022

Samarium(II)‐promoted cyclizations of N‐acylated indolyl sulfinyl imines without electron‐withdrawing groups at C‐3 furnished tertiary carbinamines in good yield. Screening of the reaction conditions revealed that application of an excess of samarium diiodide in the presence of water and lithium bromide provided the cleanest reactions and the highest yields. The most striking observation during this investigation was the reductive detachment of the sulfur functional group, which most likely precedes the cyclization step. As consequence no enantioselectivity could be observed if enantiopure sulfinyl imines were employed. The mechanisms of the N−S cleavage and of the cyclization of the intermediate imines as well as the role of the additives are discussed. The presented method generates interesting polycyclic indoline derivatives; a cascade reaction involving an ethoxycarbonyl‐substituted side‐chain provided unique tetracyclic spiro‐γ‐lactams.
Study on the development and integration of 3D‐printed optics in small‐scale productions of single‐use cultivation vessels
Authors: Kuhnke Louis Maximilian , Rehfeld Johanna Sophie , Ude Christian , Beutel Sascha
Published: March 2022

Integrating optical sensors and 3D‐printed optics into single‐use (SU) cultivation vessels for customized, tailor‐made equipment could be a next big step in the bioreactor and screening platform development enabling online bioprocess monitoring. Many different parameters such as pH, oxygen, carbon dioxide and optical density (OD) can be monitored more easily using online measuring instruments compared to offline sampling. Space‐saving integrated sensors in combination with adapted optics such as prisms open up vastly new possibilities to precisely guide light through SU vessels. This study examines how optical prisms can be 3D‐printed with a 3D‐inkjet printer, modified and then evaluated in a custom made optical bench. The prisms are coated or bonded with thin cover glasses. For the examination of reflectance performance and conformity prisms are compared on the basis of measured characteristics of a conventional glass prism. In addition, the most efficient and reproducible prism geometry and modification technique is applied to a customized 3D‐printed cultivation vessel. The vessel is evaluated on a commercial sensor‐platform, a shake flask reader (SFR) vario, to investigate its sensing‐characteristics while monitoring scattered light with the turbidity standard formazine and a cell suspension of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as model organism. It is demonstrated that 3D‐printed prisms can be used in combination with commercial scattered light sensor‐platforms to determine OD of a microbial culture and that a 3D‐printed unibody design with integrated optics in a cultivation vessel is feasible. In the range of OD600 0–1.16 rel.AU a linear correlation between sensor amplitude and offline determined OD can be achieved. Thus, enabling for the first time a measurement of low cell densities with the SFR vario platform. Moreover, sensitivity is also at least three times higher compared to the commonly used method.
Exploration of Highly Porous Biochar Derived from Dead Leaves to Immobilize LiOH·H2O Nanoparticles for Efficient Thermochemical Heat Storage Applications
Authors: Zhang Jichuan , Zhang Yuyuan , Huang Hongyu , Huang Kanzai , Deng Lisheng , Hu Huawen , Chang Menglei , Chen Dongchu , Wang Yazhuo
Published: March 2022

The inadequate utilization of low‐grade energy from industrial waste heat and solar energy calls for an efficient thermochemical heat storage material. The fabrication of a low‐cost but highly efficient composite comprising highly porous biochar and LiOH·H2O nanoparticles for heat storage applications is reported. The biochar is prepared by the KOH‐assisted pyrolysis of dead banyan leaves, and its microstructure and surface properties can be finely tuned by varying the KOH‐to‐biomass ratio. Such biochar can be mediated to possess a large specific surface area and total pore volume reaching as high as 1255.03 m2 g−1 and 3.65 cm3 g−1, respectively, superior to most previously reported biochar/biocarbon derived from different kinds of waste biomass. Besides, adequate functional groups and a hierarchical porous structure consisting of micropores and mesopores are demonstrated in the prepared biochar. The subsequent hydrothermal reaction with a short duration yields a biochar‐LiOH·H2O composite, where LiOH·H2O can be homogeneously immobilized with a nanoscale size within the porous biochar matrix. Thus, an enormous biochar/LiOH·H2O nanoparticles interface can be obtained, resulting in fast hydration reactions with water molecules. Consequently, a significant heat storage density of as high as 3089.6 kJ kg−1 is achieved within only 10 min, outstripping some recently reported thermochemical heat storage systems.
The MNE and its subsidiaries at times of global disruptions: An international relations perspective
Authors: Meyer Klaus E. , Li Chengguang
Published: March 2022

Research Summary

The global economy has recently entered a period of disruptions, increasing barriers to cross‐border business and potentially inhibiting the merits and legitimacy of integrated global strategies. We explore how three major disruptions in the global economy (reduced people mobility, divergent national regulatory institutions, and anti‐globalization populism) affect the strategies of multinational enterprises, and, in particular, the role of their foreign subsidiaries. These external disruptions call for a reassessment of theories regarding the nature of global strategy and the interaction between businesses and their political environment. Specifically, we argue that the international relations perspectives of realism, liberalism, and constructivism help explain the nature of the disruptions, and hence can inform strategy scholarship in explaining and examining strategic responses to such external disruptions.

Managerial Summary

Firms establish subsidiaries abroad in order to exploit the opportunities of globalization to the benefit of their shareholders and other stakeholders. However, the global economy has recently entered a period of disruptions that include reduced people mobility, divergent national regulatory institutions, and increased anti‐globalization populism. We argue that these disruptions will not only create new operational challenges for global strategies and new needs for local adaptation but may even challenge the legitimacy of global business models. We turn to political science for explanations and find that three paradigms of international relations offer contrarian predictions not only on the big disruptions but also on the ability of MNEs to influence political processes driving the disruptions.
Spatiotemporally resolved multivariate pattern analysis for M/EEG
Authors: Higgins Cameron , Vidaurre Diego , Kolling Nils , Liu Yunzhe , Behrens Tim , Woolrich Mark
Published: March 2022

An emerging goal in neuroscience is tracking what information is represented in brain activity over time as a participant completes some task. While electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) offer millisecond temporal resolution of how activity patterns emerge and evolve, standard decoding methods present significant barriers to interpretability as they obscure the underlying spatial and temporal activity patterns. We instead propose the use of a generative encoding model framework that simultaneously infers the multivariate spatial patterns of activity and the variable timing at which these patterns emerge on individual trials. An encoding model inversion maps from these parameters to the equivalent decoding model, allowing predictions to be made about unseen test data in the same way as in standard decoding methodology. These SpatioTemporally Resolved MVPA (STRM) models can be flexibly applied to a wide variety of experimental paradigms, including classification and regression tasks. We show that these models provide insightful maps of the activity driving predictive accuracy metrics; demonstrate behaviourally meaningful variation in the timing of pattern emergence on individual trials; and achieve predictive accuracies that are either equivalent or surpass those achieved by more widely used methods. This provides a new avenue for investigating the brain's representational dynamics and could ultimately support more flexible experimental designs in the future.
A meta‐analysis of the relation between hippocampal volume and memory ability in typically developing children and adolescents
Authors: Botdorf Morgan , Canada Kelsey L. , Riggins Tracy
Published: March 2022

Memory is supported by a network of brain regions, with the hippocampus serving a critical role in this cognitive process. Previous meta‐analyses on the association between hippocampal structure and memory have largely focused on adults. Multiple studies have since suggested that hippocampal volume is related to memory performance in children and adolescents; however, the strength and direction of this relation varies across reports, and thus, remains unclear. To further understand this brain–behavior relation, we conducted a meta‐analysis to investigate the association between hippocampal volume (assessed as total volume) and memory during typical development. Across 25 studies and 61 memory outcomes with 1357 participants, results showed a small, but significant, positive association between total hippocampal volume and memory performance. Estimates of the variability across studies in the relation between total volume and memory were not explained by differences in memory task type (delayed vs. immediate; relational vs. nonrelational), participant age range, or the method of normalization of hippocampal volumes. Overall, findings suggest that larger total hippocampal volume relates to better memory performance in children and adolescents and that this relation is similar across the memory types and age ranges assessed. To facilitate enhanced generalization across studies in the future, we discuss considerations for the field moving forward.
Increased serum pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide in hematopoietic progenitor cell donors stimulated with G‐CSF
Authors: Chen Leonard N. , Montemayor‐Garcia Celina , West‐Mitchell Kamille A. , Cantilena Cathy C.
Published: March 2022

Hematopoietic stem cells (HPCs) donors mobilized by granulocyte‐colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) can develop various signs and symptoms. proBNP (pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide) is a serum marker of heart failure. A donor who developed severe adverse reactions after G‐CSF mobilization was found to have high serum proBNP levels. We followed additional donors who received identical mobilization regimen to investigate the prevalence of this phenomenon. Eighteen healthy donors underwent a mobilization regimen of 10 μg/Kg G‐CSF daily for 5 days prior to allogeneic HPC collection using Spectra Optia between January 2016 and February 2017 were included in this study. Serum proBNP levels were measured before and after G‐CSF stimulation and immediately after apheresis. Apheresis collection parameters and other laboratory results were also reviewed. The majority of donors (86.7%) had post‐G‐CSF elevation of serum proBNP. Seven of those had elevated proBNP above upper normal range (124 pg/ml). The subgroup of donors with normal proBNP is younger (median age of 37 vs 42 years), with majority being male (90.9% vs 28.6%) and with smaller processed blood volume (2.2 vs 3 × total blood volume). This case series demonstrates an increase of serum proBNP can be common in HPC donors stimulated with 5 days of 10 mcg/kg G‐CSF. This is an adverse reaction that has not been described before. The temporary elevation of proBNP in these donors is not associated with ventricular dysfunction of the heart. The risk factors for marked elevation of proBNP post‐G‐CSF should be further investigated.
BSSE‐corrected consistent Gaussian basis sets of triple‐zeta valence with polarization quality of the fifth period for solid‐state calculations
Authors: Laun Joachim , Bredow Thomas
Published: March 2022

Revised versions of our published pob‐TZVP basis sets [Laun, J.; Vilela Oliveira, D. and Bredow, T., J. Comput. Chem., 2018, 39 (19), 1285–1290] have been derived for periodic quantum‐chemical solid‐state calculations. They complete our pob‐TZVP‐rev2 series [Vilela Oliveira, D.; Laun, J.; Peintinger, M. F. and Bredow, T., J. Comput. Chem., 2019, 40 (27), 2364–2376 and Laun, J. and Bredow, J. Comput. Chem. 2021; 42 (15), 1064–1072] for the elements of the fifth period and are based on the fully relativistic effective core potentials (ECPs) of the Stuttgart/Cologne group and the def2‐TZVP valence basis of the Ahlrichs group. The pob‐TZVP‐rev2 basis sets are developed to minimize the basis set superposition error (BSSE) in crystalline systems. For the applied PW1PW hybrid functional, the overall performance, transferability, and SCF stability of the resulting pob‐TZVP‐rev2 basis sets are significantly improved compared to the original pob‐TZVP basis sets. After augmentation with single diffuse s‐ and p‐functions, reference plane‐wave band structures of metals can be accurately reproduced.
Testing the role of inflammation in the relation of childhood maltreatment and suicidal ideation among young adults
Authors: Walker Jesse H. , Venta Amanda , Bechelli Jeremy , Brewer Trisha M. , Boisvert Danielle , Bick Johanna , Lewis Richard , Wells Jessica , Armstrong Todd
Published: March 2022

Background: In recent years, the prevalence of suicidal ideation among young adults has been on the rise, with childhood maltreatment thought to partially explain this disparity. Systemic inflammation—a product of over‐activation of the body's stress response system—has been hypothesized to play a predictive role in the development of suicidal ideation. Enduring childhood maltreatment can lead to systemic inflammation, possibly accounting for suicidal ideation's increased prevalence among young adults who have a history of childhood maltreatment. Methods: The current study sought to investigate the importance of childhood maltreatment as a static risk factor for downstream suicidal ideation in young adulthood with the immunological response (i.e., systemic inflammation) to childhood maltreatment serving as a mediating factor. Results: Systemic inflammation was found to be positively associated with suicidal ideation, supporting the unique role systemic inflammation may play in the pathogenesis of suicidal ideation, though hypotheses regarding childhood maltreatment were not supported. Conclusion: This study provides novel insight into a potential immunobiological model for suicidal ideation development in young adult populations.