bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endobronchial enchondroma: Unusual bronchial tumor
Authors: Ryu Kyoung Min , Myong Na‐Hye , Kim Dohhyung
Published: January 2022

Bronchial chondromas are very rare pulmonary benign tumors. Despite their rarity, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of endobronchial tumors in patients with unexplained respiratory symptoms. Treatment modalities for the complete excision of the tumor should be initiated to prevent further complications based on the individual tumor situation.
Boosting Amination of 1‐Octanol to 1‐Octylamine via Metal‐Metal Oxide Interactions in NixFe1/Al2O3 Catalysts
Authors: Wang Shiqing , Lan Xiaocheng , Liu Boyang , Ali Babar , Wang Tiefeng
Published: January 2022

The synthesis of 1‐octylamine, a primary platform molecule, remained a great challenge in catalysis. In this work, NixFe1/Al2O3 was used for direct amination of 1‐octanol to 1‐octylamine. Catalyst evaluation indicated that the promotion effect of Fe/Ni ratio on the catalytic amination activity followed a volcano curve while the selectivity to 1‐octylamine was positively correlated with the Fe loading. Compared with the Ni/Al2O3 catalyst, the amination activity was increased by 2.8 times by optimizing the Fe/Ni ratio to 0.33, and the selectivity to 1‐octylamine was increased from 84.0 % to 96.3 % when increasing the Fe/Ni ratio from 0 to 1. Based on catalyst characterizations, the good performance of NixFe1/Al2O3 was ascribed to the combined modification effect of the NiFe alloy and Ni−FeOx interface. The FeOx species enriched on the Ni particle surface provided sufficient Fe2+/Fe3+−O2− sites for the activation of 1‐octanol, and the cooperation between Ni sites and Lewis acid‐base pairs enhanced the amination of 1‐octanol to 1‐octylamine. This work sheds new light on the design of Ni‐based catalysts without using a noble metal for primary amine preparation.
Activation of Substituted Metallocene Catalysts Using Methylaluminoxane
Authors: Collins Scott , Linnolahti Mikko
Published: January 2022

Activation of the metallocene complexes (n‐C4H9‐(η5‐C5H4))2ZrCl2 (BuCp2ZrCl2) and rac‐1,2‐ethylenebis(1‐η5‐C9H6)ZrCl2 (EBIZrCl2) using methylaluminoxane (MAO) was investigated by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). Formation of dinuclear complexes at low Al : Zr ratios, which is accompanied by catalyst deactivation, occurs in the former case. In contrast, this behavior was not observed at similar Al : Zr ratios in the case of the EBIZrCl2 complex. Both active [BuCp2ZrMe2AlMe2][MAO(Me)] 3 and deactivated [(BuCp2Zr)2(μ‐CH2)μ‐Cl][MAO(Me)] 9 complexes were detected in leaching experiments using a SiO2‐MAO‐supported BuCp2ZrCl2 catalyst and excess MAO. DFT studies of the structure and UV‐Vis spectra calculated for the dinuclear cations 9 detected by ESI‐MS suggest that these species may account for long‐wavelength absorption seen in experimental spectra of complexes like BuCp2ZrCl2 upon activation with MAO.
Effect of Flow Direction on a Double‐Duty Microreactor for Coproduction of Aniline and Hydrogen
Authors: Khazayialiabad Amirhossein , Iranshahi Davood
Published: January 2022

A new thermally coupled microreactor, which simultaneously produces hydrogen and aniline, is simulated. It is suggested that the nitrobenzene hydrogenation process, the heat source, occurs in the tube section, thereby providing the requisite energy for the reactor system. Conversely, the shell section contains the steam reforming of glycerol coolant for the exothermic reaction. The results are evaluated in the two flow directions, namely, cocurrent and countercurrent. The furnace and cooling system, vital for the conventional steam reforming and aniline production processes, are eliminated, respectively, having accurately implemented the sensitivity analysis. Optimization of the most effective parameters is performed via genetic algorithm.
A method to prepare reference colors for chromatic adaptation experiments
Authors: Cai Shengyan , Sun Yan , Sun Ruixia , Chen Xiaoying , Shi Xinyue
Published: January 2022

The preparation of the reference colors is the hardest and the most time‐consuming part of chromatic adaptation experiments. In this paper, a new method is proposed to prepare high‐quality reference color arrays for chromatic adaptation experiments. The reference color arrays are defined in the a*b* plane of CIELAB color space. The initial arrays are calculated by the CAT02 and the desired color differences. Then the arrays are output and two visual experiments are organized, the chromatic adaptation experiment and the color difference estimating experiment. The former is to check if the color gamut of the reference colors is fit for the experiment. The latter is to check the uniformity of the color differences of the arrays. According to the fitting curves from the color differences estimating experiment, the reference color arrays can be optimized to be more uniform in the color differences. The method is proved effective and suitable for different media.
Dynamic Transformation of DNA Nanostructures inside Living Cells
Authors: Ding Xiaohui , Lv Zhaoyue , Xu Nuo , Li Feng , Yang Dayong
Published: January 2022

DNA nanostructures, that show sequence programmable responsiveness to intracellular signals, have been explored as potential candidates of artificial dynamic functional structures in living cells. Recently, we developed a series of intracellular signals responding DNA nanostructures in living cells to perform a special mission. In this review, the developed DNA nanostructures and their dynamic transformation properties are summarized and discussed. The DNA nanostructures are generally categorized into DNA‐inorganic nanomaterials and DNA‐organic nanomaterials depending on the composition. At the end of this review, the challenges and prospects on instructing dynamic DNA nanostructures in living cells are discussed. We believe that this review will contribute to the further development of stimuli‐responsive nanomaterials, which is of great potential in biomedical applications.
Shock physics in warm dense matter: A quantum hydrodynamics perspective
Authors: Graziani F. , Moldabekov Z. , Olson B. , Bonitz M.
Published: January 2022

Warm dense matter (WDM), an exotic, highly compressed state of matter between solid and plasma phases, is of high current interest, in particular for astrophysics and inertial confinement fusion. For the latter, in particular the propagation of compression shocks is crucial. The main unknown in the shock propagation in WDM is the behaviour of the electrons since they are governed by correlations, quantum and spin effects that need to be accounted for simultaneously. Here we describe the shock dynamics of the warm dense electron gas using a quantum hydrodynamic model. From the numerical hydrodynamic simulations, we observe that the quantum Bohm pressure induces shear force that weakens the formation and strength of the shock. In addition, the Bohm pressure induces an electron density response that takes the form of oscillations. This is confirmed by the theoretical analysis of the early stage of the shock formation. Our theoretical and numerical analyses allow us to identify characteristic dimensionless shock propagation parameters at which the effect of the Bohm force is important.
Ground nesting by arboreal American robins (Turdus migratorius)
Authors: Winnicki Sarah K. , Hauber Mark E. , Benson Thomas J. , Abolins‐Abols Mikus
Published: January 2022

Animals with dependent and vulnerable young need to decide where to raise their offspring to minimize ill effects of weather, competition, parasitism, and predation. These decisions have critical fitness consequences through impacting the survival of both adults and progeny. Birds routinely place their nest in specific sites, allowing species to be broadly classified based on nest location (e.g., ground‐ or tree‐nesting). However, from 2018 to 2020, we observed 24 American robin (Turdus migratorius) nests placed not on their species‐typical arboreal substrates or human‐made structures but on the ground at a predator‐rich commercial tree‐farm in Illinois, USA. This behavior does not appear to be in response to competition and did not affect nest daily survival rate but was restricted to the early half of the breeding season. We hypothesize that ground nesting may be an adaptive response to avoid exposure and colder temperatures at sites above the ground early in the breeding season or a nonadaptive consequence of latent robin nest‐placement flexibility.
Gelatin‐starch composite coating containing cucumber peel extract and cumin essential oil: Shelf life improvement of a cheese model
Authors: Esparvarini Zahra , Bazargani‐Gilani Behnaz , Pajohi‐Alamoti Mohammadreza , Nourian Alireza
Published: January 2022

In this study, the effects of gelatin‐starch (GS) composite coating containing cucumber peel extract (CPE) and cumin essential oil (CEO) were evaluated on the shelf life enhancement of ultrafiltered (UF) cheese during 56 days of storage under refrigerated conditions. The obtained hydroethanolic CPE by the microwave method showed the best results in terms of the total phenolic content, reducing power, 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity, and 2,2‐azino‐bis‐3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity compared to the immersion and ultrasound methods. The studied treatments were as follows: Control (C), GS, CPE, CEO, GS‐CPE, GS‐CEO, and GS‐CPE‐CEO. Scanning electron microscopic surface morphology of treated cheese samples showed the formation of a firm, integrated, flawless, and homogenous layer on the cheese slices of the GS‐CPE‐CEO treatment. All treatments significantly (p ≤ .05) decreased the total viable count, psychotropic bacteria, and yeast–mold population compared to the control group. Adding CEO and/or CPE to GS significantly (p ≤ .05) controlled undesirable changes in physical characteristics, such as weight, color, and hardness of the cheese slices. Throughout storage time, the coated cheese slices showed more stable chemical features in comparison to the uncoated cheese samples in terms of moisture, lipid oxidation, pH, and titratable acidity (TA). Sensory evaluation of the preparations showed that the GS coating containing CPE and CEO significantly (p ≤ .05) had pleasant effects on the sensory features (taste, odor, texture, and overall acceptability) of the cheese samples during storage time. It was concluded that composite coating of GS containing CPE and CEO could improve the microbial, physical, chemical, and sensory features of ultrafiltration (UF) cheese during refrigerated storage.
Daily intake of up to two eggs for 11 weeks does not affect the cholesterol balance of Chinese young adults
Authors: Ma Zhili , Wu Wei , Zhang Dexin , Wu Ping , Guo Yuanhua , Li Deyuan , Yang Fang
Published: January 2022

Approximately 90% of the cholesterol content of the body is derived from de novo synthesis and the enterohepatic circulation. As numerous studies have shown previously, one egg per day intake has little impact of cholesterol balance in human body. Therefore, this study assumed that intake of up two eggs a day has little effect on biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) risk in Chinese young adults. With the increase in egg intake, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), and choline all increased among all the groups as the study progressed from autumn to winter (p < .05). However, there were no differences in the plasma triglycerides, LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio, glucose, liver enzymes, C‐reactive protein, and urinary microalbumin during the diet periods. Subjects who ate eggs at breakfast felt less hungry and more satisfied, which were relative with decreased fasting plasma ghrelin level (p < .05). Furthermore, egg‐derived cholesterol appeared to upregulate the mRNA levels of low‐density lipoprotein receptor and lecithin–cholesterol acyltransferase, and downregulate cholesteryl ester transfer protein and flavin‐containing monooxygenase 3 mRNA levels in isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. These results demonstrate that intake of up to two eggs a day had little effect on biomarkers of CVDs in young, healthy Chinese college students and provided useful evidence for the dietary guidelines regarding egg consumption.
Altered processing of communication signals in the subcortical auditory sensory pathway in autism
Authors: Schelinski Stefanie , Tabas Alejandro , von Kriegstein Katharina
Published: January 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterised by social communication difficulties. These difficulties have been mainly explained by cognitive, motivational, and emotional alterations in ASD. The communication difficulties could, however, also be associated with altered sensory processing of communication signals. Here, we assessed the functional integrity of auditory sensory pathway nuclei in ASD in three independent functional magnetic resonance imaging experiments. We focused on two aspects of auditory communication that are impaired in ASD: voice identity perception, and recognising speech‐in‐noise. We found reduced processing in adults with ASD as compared to typically developed control groups (pairwise matched on sex, age, and full‐scale IQ) in the central midbrain structure of the auditory pathway (inferior colliculus [IC]). The right IC responded less in the ASD as compared to the control group for voice identity, in contrast to speech recognition. The right IC also responded less in the ASD as compared to the control group when passively listening to vocal in contrast to non‐vocal sounds. Within the control group, the left and right IC responded more when recognising speech‐in‐noise as compared to when recognising speech without additional noise. In the ASD group, this was only the case in the left, but not the right IC. The results show that communication signal processing in ASD is associated with reduced subcortical sensory functioning in the midbrain. The results highlight the importance of considering sensory processing alterations in explaining communication difficulties, which are at the core of ASD.
Three‐terminal perovskite/integrated back contact silicon tandem solar cells under low light intensity conditions
Authors: Kanda Hiroyuki , Dan Mihailetchi Valentin , Gueunier‐Farret Marie‐Estelle , Kleider Jean‐Paul , Djebbour Zakaria , Alvarez Jose , Philippe Baranek , Isabella Olindo , Vogt Malte R. , Santbergen Rudi , Schulz Philip , Peter Fiala , Nazeeruddin Mohammad K. , Connolly James P.
Published: January 2022

The current climate and energy crisis urgently needs solar cells with efficiencies above the 29% single junction efficiency bottleneck. Silicon/perovskite tandem solar cells are a solution, which is attracting much attention. While silicon/perovskite tandem cells in 2‐terminal and 4‐terminal configurations are well documented, the three‐terminal concept is still in its infancy. It has significant advantages under low light intensities as opposed to concentrated sunlight, which is the critical factor in designing tandem solar cells for low‐cost terrestrial applications. This study presents novel studies of the sub‐cell performance of the first three‐terminal perovskite/silicon selective band offset barrier tandem solar cells fabricated in an ongoing research project. This study focuses on short circuit current and operating voltages of the sub‐cells under light intensities of one sun and below. Lifetime studies show that the perovskite bulk carrier lifetime is insensitive to illumination, while the silicon cell's lifetime decreases with decreasing light intensity. The combination of perovskite and silicon in the 3T perovskite‐silicon tandem therefore reduces the sensitivity of VOC to light intensity and maintains a relatively higher VOC down to low light intensities, whereas silicon single‐junction cells show a marked decrease. This technological advantage is proposed as a novel advantage of three‐terminal perovkite/silicon solar cells for low light intensities of one sun or less.
Household consumption and exchange rate extreme dynamics: Multiple asymmetric threshold non‐linear autoregressive distributed lag model perspective
Authors: Uche Emmanuel , Chang Bisharat Hussain , Effiom Lionel
Published: January 2022

This study re ‐evaluates the relative adjustments of household's consumption expenditure to extremely small and extremely large variations in exchange rate in African emerging economies (AEE). For this purpose, we used a modified version of non‐linear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and multiple threshold non‐linear ARDL models that specifically captures the differential effects of extremely small and extremely large positive and negative variations of the explanatory variable(s) on the explained variable. Consequently, the empirical estimates reveal that changes in exchange rate has asymmetric effects on consumption expenditure in all the countries except in Nigeria. Furthermore, consumption expenditure in Algeria, Egypt and Morocco increases significantly at the upper quantile of exchange rate appreciation, whereas, it declines significantly at all quantiles of exchange rate depreciation, implying that consumption expenditure in these three North African countries are more sensitive to large positive shocks in exchange rate. In Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, consumption expenditure are exchange rate inelastic as households maintain their consumption levels regardless of the direction and degree of exchange rate deviations. Overall, the diagnostics tests prove the superiority of this enhanced technique over the standard non‐linear ARDL technique. Based on the outcomes of this study, policy recommendations that could ensure optimal exchange rate alignment for the African countries, as well as other emerging economies have been proposed.
Development of an optical fiber‐based redox monitoring system for tissue metabolism
Authors: Zhang Wen Qi , Sorvina Alexandra , Morrison Janna L. , Darby Jack R. T. , Brooks Doug A. , Plush Sally E. , Afshar Vahid Shahraam
Published: January 2022

An optical redox ratio can potentially be used to report on the dynamics of cell and tissue metabolism and define altered metabolic conditions for different pathologies. While there are methods to measure the optical redox ratio, they are not particularly suited to real‐time in situ or in vivo analysis. Here, we have developed a fiber‐optic system to measure redox ratios in cells and tissues and two mathematical models to enable real‐time, in vivo redox measurements. The optical redox ratios in tissue explants are correlated directly with endogenous NADH/FAD fluorescence emissions. We apply the mathematical models to the two‐photon microscopy data and show consistent results. We also used our fiber‐optic system to measure redox in different tissues and show consistent results between the two models, hence demonstrating proof‐of‐principle. This innovative redox monitoring system will have practical applications for defining different metabolic disease states.
A new synthetic route for synthesis of 3‐substituted imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridines
Authors: Bori Jugal , Manivannan Vadivelu
Published: January 2022

A new convenient route for the synthesis of 3‐substituted‐imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridines has been described as well as the scope and limitations of the method are evaluated. By reacting 2‐picolylamine and different aldehydes in presence of selenium dioxide as the oxidant, a series of 3‐substituted imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridines was isolated in good yields. Different kinds of aldehydes such as aliphatic, aromatic, heterocyclic as well as aromatic ring carrying some substituents have been used.
Biomarkers for drug development in propionic and methylmalonic acidemias
Authors: Longo Nicola , Sass Jörn Oliver , Jurecka Agnieszka , Vockley Jerry
Published: January 2022

There is an unmet need for the development and validation of biomarkers and surrogate endpoints for clinical trials in propionic acidemia (PA) and methylmalonic acidemia (MMA). This review examines the pathophysiology and clinical consequences of PA and MMA that could form the basis for potential biomarkers and surrogate endpoints. Changes in primary metabolites such as methylcitric acid (MCA), MCA:citric acid ratio, oxidation of 13C‐propionate (exhaled 13CO2), and propionylcarnitine (C3) have demonstrated clinical relevance in patients with PA or MMA. Methylmalonic acid, another primary metabolite, is a potential biomarker, but only in patients with MMA. Other potential biomarkers in patients with either PA and MMA include secondary metabolites, such as ammonium, or the mitochondrial disease marker, fibroblast growth factor 21. Additional research is needed to validate these biomarkers as surrogate endpoints, and to determine whether other metabolites or markers of organ damage could also be useful biomarkers for clinical trials of investigational drug treatments in patients with PA or MMA. This review examines the evidence supporting a variety of possible biomarkers for drug development in propionic and methylmalonic acidemias.
Value of T2 Mapping MRI for Prostate Cancer Detection and Classification
Authors: Klingebiel Maximilian , Schimmöller Lars , Weiland Elisabeth , Franiel Tobias , Jannusch Kai , Kirchner Julian , Hilbert Tom , Strecker Ralph , Arsov Christian , Wittsack Hans‐Jörg , Albers Peter , Antoch Gerald , Ullrich Tim
Published: January 2022

Background

Currently, multi‐parametric prostate MRI (mpMRI) consists of a qualitative T2, diffusion weighted, and dynamic contrast enhanced imaging. Quantification of T2 imaging might further standardize PCa detection and support artificial intelligence solutions.

Purpose

To evaluate the value of T2 mapping to detect prostate cancer (PCa) and to differentiate PCa aggressiveness.

Study Type

Retrospective single center cohort study.

Population

Forty‐four consecutive patients (mean age 67 years; median PSA 7.9 ng/mL) with mpMRI and verified PCa by subsequent targeted plus systematic MR/ultrasound (US)‐fusion biopsy from February 2019 to December 2019.

Field Strength/Sequence

Standardized mpMRI at 3 T with an additionally acquired T2 mapping sequence.

Assessment

Primary endpoint was the analysis of quantitative T2 values and contrast differences/ratios (CD/CR) between PCa and benign tissue. Secondary objectives were the correlation between T2 values, ISUP grade, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value, and PI‐RADS, and the evaluation of thresholds for differentiating PCa and clinically significant PCa (csPCa).

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney test, Spearman's rank (rs) correlation, receiver operating curves, Youden's index (J), and AUC were performed. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05.

Results

Median quantitative T2 values were significantly lower for PCa in PZ (85 msec) and PCa in TZ (75 msec) compared to benign PZ (141 msec) or TZ (97 msec) (P < 0.001). CD/CR between PCa and benign PZ (51.2/1.77), respectively TZ (19.8/1.29), differed significantly (P < 0.001). The best T2‐mapping threshold for PCa/csPCa detection was for TZ 81/86 msec (J = 0.929/1.0), and for PZ 110 msec (J = 0.834/0.905). Quantitative T2 values of PCa did not correlate significantly with the ISUP grade (rs = 0.186; P = 0.226), ADC value (rs = 0.138; P = 0.372), or PI‐RADS (rs = 0.132; P = 0.392).

Data Conclusion

Quantitative T2 values could differentiate PCa in TZ and PZ and might support standardization of mpMRI of the prostate. Different thresholds seem to apply for PZ and TZ lesions. However, in the present study quantitative T2 values were not able to indicate PCa aggressiveness.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Coastal salt marsh restoration drives element composition of soils toward its original state by recovering soil organic matter
Authors: Wang Guodong , Jiang Ming , Wang Ming
Published: January 2022

Large areas of coastal wetlands have been restored recently throughout the world; it is important to know if restoration practice recovers original levels of biogeochemical functioning in coastal wetlands. We did samplings in five sites in the Liaohe River Delta, China. Each site had three salt marsh types: natural, restored, and degraded. We measured the concentrations of 43 elements and environmental variables including soil organic matter, soil electrical conductivity, soil pH, soil salinity, and soil water content. Concentrations of 39 elements differed significantly between salt marsh types. The values of the concentrations of 39 elements in the restored salt marshes were all in between those of natural and degraded salt marshes. Soil organic matter and the relative abundance of most elements including nutrients and metals increased simultaneously during restoration. Redundancy analysis indicated that soil organic matter explained 72.1% of the total variation in element composition. Our findings indicated that the recovery of soil biogeochemical functioning in salt marshes was driven by the accumulation of soil organic matter during restoration. It may take a very long time for the soil composition and biogeochemistry to reach the original levels prior to disturbance.
Virtual Screening Inhibitors of Ubiquitin‐specific Protease 7 Combining Pharmacophore Modeling and Molecular Docking
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Wang Yifan , Liu Lu , Zhao Guangjian , Sun Yujie , Wang Juan , Liu Fang , Wang Peng , Xu Ximing
Published: January 2022

Ubiquitin‐specific protease 7 (USP7) is one of the most extensively studied deubiquitinases. USP7 exhibits a high expression signature in various malignant tumors, suggesting that it is a marker of tumor prognosis and a potential drug target for anti‐tumor therapy. In this study, virtual screening based on pharmacophore model and biological evaluation have been applied for the discovery of novel USP7 inhibitors targeting the catalytic active site. The TS‐4 was screened from 215,480 small molecules and was found to have USP7 inhibitory activity. Preliminary in vitro studies disclosed its antiproliferative activity on human colon cancer cell lines (HCT‐116 and RKO), compared with normal colon cell line (CCD841CoN). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed the combine mechanism between USP7 with the TS‐4. The TS‐4 formed stable interactions with Asp295, Phe409 and Tyr514, which were critical to enhance its biological activity. This compound will serve as a promising hit compound for facilitating the further design of novel USP7 inhibitors.
Burden of central nervous system complications in sickle cell disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee Soyon , Lucas Sedge , Proudman David , Nellesen Dave , Paulose Jincy , Sheehan Vivien A.
Published: January 2022

Sickle cell disease (SCD) patients are at high risk of central nervous system (CNS) complications and may experience significant morbidity. The study was conducted to describe the comprehensive burden of SCD‐related CNS complications and to identify patient‐reported outcome (PRO) instruments for future research. The review included 32 studies published from January 2000 to 2020, evaluating humanistic and economic outcomes. Twenty‐three studies reported humanistic outcomes, 16 of which measured cognitive function using Wechsler Intelligence Scales. A meta‐analysis was conducted, finding full‐scale intelligence quotient (IQ) was significantly lower in: overt stroke versus controls: −12.6 (p < .001); silent cerebral infarct (SCI) versus controls: −5.7 (p < .001); overt stroke versus SCI: −9.4 (p = .008); and any event versus controls: −7.6 (p < .001). This review quantified the cognitive deficits associated with CNS complications in pediatric SCD populations and highlights the need for improved prevention/treatment. As PRO evidence was limited, we discussed areas for future research.
Underlying genetic etiologies of congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Scott Daryl A. , Gofin Yoel , Berry Aliska M. , Adams April D.
Published: January 2022

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is often detectable prenatally. Advances in genetic testing have made it possible to obtain a molecular diagnosis in many fetuses with CDH. Here, we review the aneuploidies, copy number variants (CNVs), and single genes that have been clearly associated with CDH. We suggest that array‐based CNV analysis, with or without a chromosome analysis, is the optimal test for identifying chromosomal abnormalities and CNVs in fetuses with CDH. To identify causative sequence variants, whole exome sequencing (WES) is the most comprehensive strategy currently available. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) with CNV analysis has the potential to become the most efficient and effective means of identifying an underlying diagnosis but is not yet routinely available for prenatal diagnosis. We describe how to overcome and address the diagnostic and clinical uncertainty that may remain after genetic testing, and review how a molecular diagnosis may impact recurrence risk estimations, mortality rates, and the availability and outcomes of fetal therapy. We conclude that after the prenatal detection of CDH, patients should be counseled about the possible genetic causes of the CDH, and the genetic testing modalities available to them, in accordance with generally accepted guidelines for pretest counseling in the prenatal setting.
Prenatal diagnosis of VACTERL association in the first trimester
Authors: Zhang Wen , Chen Jiao
Published: January 2022

Key points

What's already known about this topic?

Only four cases of VACTERL association diagnosed in the first trimester have been reported

What does this study add?

We show that VACTERL association can present with a broad range of findings, including anal atresia, foot dysplasia, hemivertebrae, a single umbilical artery, and closed spina bifida

VACTERL association can be suspected at the time of a first trimester ultrasound
Recent Progress and Future Perspectives of Carbon Dots in the Detection, Degradation, and Enhancement of Drugs
Authors: Korah Binila K. , Chacko Anu Rose , Abraham Thomas , Mathew Beena
Published: January 2022

Carbon dots (CDs) are new types of nanoparticles with sizes less than 10 nm in diameter. CDs with their unique properties can detect, degrade, and surprisingly enhance drugs. This review focuses on three major aspects of CD‐drug interactions: detection, degradation, and enhancement of drugs using CDs. The review begins with a brief account of the significant development milestones, the synthetic approaches adopted, and modification methods. The detection section of the review moves on to a classified presentation of modified and unmodified CDs in drug detection, as well as an examination of the tactics and background hypotheses required to confirm the mechanism. Following that, specific attention is paid to the structural and optical features of CD/photocatalytic systems, as well as a summary of CD's role in photocatalytic degradation. A thorough examination of the changes in photocatalyst properties when they are composited with CDs, is also carried out, as well as the characterization techniques used to confirm the presence of CDs. Even though the enhancement section is still in its infancy, special attention is paid to pique readers’ interest in further research in that field. Finally, new paths are proposed based on the gaps, challenges, and future perspectives.
A remote ethnography methodology to gain packaging behaviour insights
Authors: Clark Nikki , Trimingham Rhoda , Wilson Garrath T.
Published: January 2022

Remote ethnography requires the observation of human interaction in the natural world without the researcher being present. Well‐established in industrial and user experience design remote ethnography provides insight into the user's behaviour whilst completing a specific task in a defined environment. Designers in established fields such as Design for Sustainable Behaviour have applied this behavioural understanding to develop interventions to positively adapt unsustainable behaviours. Existing research techniques have evidenced limitations in fully understanding consumer packaging disposal behaviour, with a clear gap in behavioural insights with packaging used out of the home. A novel mixed‐methods approach was developed using remote ethnography to explore consumer food‐to‐go packaging disposal behaviour out of the home, providing insights which could be evaluated for their application within the packaging development process. In explaining the new methodological approach, this paper (a) proposes a mixed‐methods approach by which packaging developers can better understand packaging disposal behaviour out of the home, (b) explains this research method in the context of a food‐to‐go packaging disposal case study and (c) evaluates the value of the mixed‐methods approach within the food packaging development process.
Violating the standard assumption underlying the process monitoring: Perfect measurements
Authors: Rehman Aqeel ur , Shabbir Javid , Munir Tahir , Ahmad Shabbir , Riaz Muhammad
Published: January 2022

The presence of the measurement errors is a rule rather than an exception in any process monitoring context. Since the observations are generally observed, in quick manner, by some measuring process and are time ordered. Moreover, their presence contributes negatively towards the performance of the usual control charting schemes. Therefore, it will be naïve and may lead to invalid conclusions to devise a control structure, without taking them into account, at first place, and then counteracting their adverse effect. This paper studies the foregoing impact on the performance of two eminent charts, for mean or average parameter of a process, namely: Crosier CUSUM and Dual CUSUM charts. With growing intensity of the error variation, a deteriorating performance of the said charts has been observed. The average run length (ARL) behaviors, zero‐state, and steady‐state, of both charts are studied, using Monte‐Carlo simulation algorithm, under different situations for the effect of measurement errors. Also, extra quadratic loss, relative ARL and performance comparison index (abbreviated as EQL, RARL, and PCI, respectively) are used to evaluate the performance of the charts. Repeated measurements are employed, as a remedial scheme, for the effect of measurement errors. An illustrative example is incorporated to elucidate the study.
PFAS Experts Symposium 2: PFAS Toxicology and Risk Assessment in 2021—Contemporary issues in human and ecological risk assessment of PFAS
Authors: Zodrow Jean , Vedagiri Usha , Sorell Tamara , McIntosh Lisa , Larson Emily , Hall Linda , Dourson Michael , Dell Linda , Cox Douglas , Barfoot Krista , Anderson Janet
Published: January 2022

This paper summarizes key information on topics of contemporary interest in human and ecological per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) risk assessment, which were discussed at the PFAS Experts Symposium 2. For human health, the discussion focused on the toxicologic and epidemiologic endpoints and exposure assumptions that contribute to differences in PFAS regulatory criteria. For ecological risk, the discussion assessed the current state of the science available to support ecological screening levels and identified key data gaps and uncertainties in our understanding of ecological exposure and toxicity. Finally, the paper summarizes a panel discussion that addressed the challenges and uncertainties of regulating PFAS as a class.
Energy shaping control for systems with underactuation degrees two by controlled Lagrangian method
Authors: Liu Ce
Published: January 2022

This article investigates underactuated systems' energy shaping control by controlled Lagrangian (CL) method. The existence of CL based control depends on a set of matching conditions, which are usually in terms of partial differential equations (PDEs). In this work, the matching conditions are derived and simplified for underactuation‐degrees‐two systems. Moreover, the solvability conditions are provided for a class of systems satisfying Assumptions 1 and 2, based on which the controlled energy could be explicitly solved. By the proposed matching solution method, the desired equilibrium can be effectively assigned. The proposed matching controller is implemented for a strongly coupled single rigid body system with six degrees of freedom for the first time. Smooth state feedback control laws guaranteeing asymptotic stability of the system are presented. The range of the control parameters could be obtained based on the positive definiteness of reshaped closed‐loop energy. Simulations for comparison with relate work show the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Enzyme‐Loaded Hemin/G‐Quadruplex‐Modified ZIF‐90 Metal–Organic Framework Nanoparticles: Bioreactor Nanozymes for the Cascaded Oxidation of N‐hydroxy‐l‐arginine and Sensing Applications
Authors: Chen Chaochao , Vázquez‐González Margarita , O'Hagan Michael P. , Ouyang Yu , Wang Zhanhui , Willner Itamar
Published: January 2022

Biocatalytic cascades are challenging to operate in homogeneous solution, where diffusional mass transport hinders efficient communication between the reactive components. There is great interest in developing devices to perform such transformations in confined environments, which increase the efficiency of the cascaded process by generating high local concentrations of the reactive species. Herein, a bioreactor‐nanozyme assembly is introduced for the cascaded aerobic oxidation of N‐hydroxy‐l‐arginine (NOHA) to citrulline in the presence of glucose. The reaction mimics a key step in the nitric oxide synthase oxidation of l‐arginine in nature. The system consists of glucose oxidase (GOx)‐loaded hemin/G‐quadruplex (hemin/G4)‐modified ZIF‐90 metal–organic framework nanoparticles. The aerobic oxidation of glucose by GOx yields H2O2 that fuels the hemin/G4‐catalyzed oxidation of NOHA into citrulline. The process driven by the bioreactor‐nanozyme system is ≈sixfold enhanced compared to the homogeneous mixture of the biocatalysts, due to its operation in the confined environment of the nanoparticles. Extension to a three‐step cascade is then demonstrated using a bioreactor composed of β‐galactosidase/GOx‐loaded hemin/G4‐modified ZIF‐90 nanoparticles activating the cascaded oxidation of NOHA to citrulline, in the presence of lactose. Moreover, the bioreactor‐nanozyme hybrid is applied as a functional optical sensor of glucose, using fluorescence or chemiluminescence as readout signals.
Ion Migration in Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells: Current Understanding and Perspectives
Authors: Zhu Weike , Wang Shurong , Zhang Xin , Wang Aili , Wu Cheng , Hao Feng
Published: January 2022

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite (OIHPs) solar cells are the most promising alternatives to traditional silicon solar cells, with a certified power conversion efficiency beyond 25%. However, the poor stability of OHIPs is one of the thorniest obstacles that hinder its commercial development. Among all the factors affecting stability, ion migration is prominent because it is unavoidable and intrinsic in OHIPs. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanism for ion migration and regulation strategies. Herein, the types of ions that may migrate in OHIPs are first discussed; afterward, the migrating channels are demonstrated. The effects of ion migration are further elaborated. While ion migration can facilitate the p–i–n structure in some cases, the current hysteresis and other adverse effects such as phase segregation in OHIPs attract widespread attention. Based on these, several recent strategies to suppress the ion migration are enumerated, including the introduction of alkali cations, organic additives, grain boundaries passivation, and employment of low‐dimensional perovskites. Finally, the prospect for further modulating the ion migration and more stable perovskite solar cells is proposed.
Accelerated Hydrogen “Spill‐Over” Enhances Anode Performance of Tensile Strained Pd‐Based Fuel Cell Electrocatalysts
Authors: Yin Huiming , Shen Yongli , Xi Wei , Liu Xizheng , Yin Shuai , Jia Jiankuo , Zhang Jian , Ding Yi
Published: January 2022

Development of efficient electrocatalysts usually relies on half‐cell electrochemical tests for rapid material screening, which however are not always consistent with the associated full cell evaluation. This study designs a tensile‐strained Pd anode and reveals that with a lower apparent activity toward the hydrogen oxidation reaction as compared to the unstrained one, it exhibits a surprisingly high activity in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). With an ultralow Pd loading of 4.5 µg cm−2, the tensile‐strained Pd achieves a maximum power density of 1048 mW cm−2, indicating a 30‐fold improvement in power efficiency than that of commercial Pd/C, nearly four times of that of the unstrained one. This discrepancy can be ascribed to the hydrogen‐rich surface in the H2 atmosphere of PEMFCs owing to the accelerated hydrogen “spill‐over” in the tensile‐strained Pd with a standout hydrogen storage property.
A classification of the aquatic Podostemaceae subfamily Tristichoideae, with a new genus based on ITS and matK phylogeny and morphological characters
Authors: Koi Satoshi , Uniyal Prem Lal , Kato Masahiro
Published: January 2022

The submerged lithophilous Podostemaceae show remarkable variation in phenotypic characters. Taxonomic estimation of the characters alone may not have produced a natural classification of subfamily Tristichoideae. Among the genera, Cussetia and Indotristicha have not been examined by detailed morphological observations and molecular analyses. The present ITS and/or matK phylogenies indicated that Cussetia carinata is close to Terniopsis with high support, and Indotristicha tirunelveliana and Dalzellia form a clade with robust support, while the congeneric I. ramosissima was separated from the clade. Cussetia differs from Terniopsis by having many, alternately 3‐whorled, carinate bracts and heteromorphic shoots, whereas they share the capped root and 3‐stichous leaves. The habitat of C. carinata is the deepest under water in the family. Indotristicha tirunelveliana differs from Dalzellia in the holdfasts, shoots, ramuli, phyllotaxis and cupules. Based on the consistent phylogeny and morphological variation, the genus Cussetia is accepted and a new genus for I. tirunelveliana is proposed. The emended seven genera were characterized primarily by vegetative characters. Tabulated diagnostic characters, a synopsis and a key to genera is presented.
Solar geoengineering: The case for an international non‐use agreement
Authors: Biermann Frank , Oomen Jeroen , Gupta Aarti , Ali Saleem H. , Conca Ken , Hajer Maarten A. , Kashwan Prakash , Kotzé Louis J. , Leach Melissa , Messner Dirk , Okereke Chukwumerije , Persson Åsa , Potočnik Janez , Schlosberg David , Scobie Michelle , VanDeveer Stacy D.
Published: January 2022

Solar geoengineering is gaining prominence in climate change debates as an issue worth studying; for some it is even a potential future policy option. We argue here against this increasing normalization of solar geoengineering as a speculative part of the climate policy portfolio. We contend, in particular, that solar geoengineering at planetary scale is not governable in a globally inclusive and just manner within the current international political system. We therefore call upon governments and the United Nations to take immediate and effective political control over the development of solar geoengineering technologies. Specifically, we advocate for an International Non‐Use Agreement on Solar Geoengineering and outline the core elements of this proposal.

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Governance > International Policy Framework
Explainable deep learning in healthcare: A methodological survey from an attribution view
Authors: Jin Di , Sergeeva Elena , Weng Wei‐Hung , Chauhan Geeticka , Szolovits Peter
Published: January 2022

The increasing availability of large collections of electronic health record (EHR) data and unprecedented technical advances in deep learning (DL) have sparked a surge of research interest in developing DL based clinical decision support systems for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Despite the recognition of the value of deep learning in healthcare, impediments to further adoption in real healthcare settings remain due to the black‐box nature of DL. Therefore, there is an emerging need for interpretable DL, which allows end users to evaluate the model decision making to know whether to accept or reject predictions and recommendations before an action is taken. In this review, we focus on the interpretability of the DL models in healthcare. We start by introducing the methods for interpretability in depth and comprehensively as a methodological reference for future researchers or clinical practitioners in this field. Besides the methods' details, we also include a discussion of advantages and disadvantages of these methods and which scenarios each of them is suitable for, so that interested readers can know how to compare and choose among them for use. Moreover, we discuss how these methods, originally developed for solving general‐domain problems, have been adapted and applied to healthcare problems and how they can help physicians better understand these data‐driven technologies. Overall, we hope this survey can help researchers and practitioners in both artificial intelligence and clinical fields understand what methods we have for enhancing the interpretability of their DL models and choose the optimal one accordingly.

This article is categorized under:

Cancer > Computational Models
Observations on the use of passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags in teleosts and elasmobranchs at a public aquarium, 728 cases, 2007–2020
Authors: McMurrer Jessica , McElhiney Aubrey , McNally Kerry , Innis Charles J.
Published: January 2022

Between 2007 and 2020 at New England Aquarium, Boston, MA, USA, we implanted passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags into 728 fish representing 105 teleost and elasmobranch species to identify animals as individuals. At the time of retrospective data analysis, mean longevity interval (median, range) after tag placement for animals that remained alive (n = 236) was 4.7 years (4.5, 0.3–13.8). Mean interval (median, range) between tag placement and death (n = 317) was 2.1 years (1.6, 0–11.2); and mean interval (median, range) between tag placement and transfer to other facilities (n = 175) was 2.5 years (3.1, 0.1–9.3). Possible adverse effects of tagging were extremely rare. Using the described methods, the equipment cost for every 10 PIT tag implantations was $2.83. PIT tag implantation in fishes is a safe and cost effective method to identify individuals, providing an opportunity to accumulate valuable data regarding individual longevity, welfare, basic demographics, and outcome of medical management. PIT tag implantation is recommended as a routine aspect of acquisition, quarantine, and medical management of fish under human care.