bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Bio‐Optoelectronic Gating of Semiconducting Carbon Nanotubes by Varying the Covalent Attachment Residue of a Green Fluorescent Protein
Authors: Gwyther Rebecca E. A. , Nekrasov Nikita P. , Emelianov Aleksei V. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Ramakrishnan Krithika , Bobrinetskiy Ivan , Jones D. Dafydd
Published: February 2022

Integrating photoactive proteins with synthetic nanomaterials holds great promise in developing optoelectronic devices whereby light, captured by a antenna protein, is converted to a modulated electrical response. The protein–nanomaterial interface is critical to defining optoelectronic properties; successful integration of bionanohybrids requires control over protein attachment site and a detailed understanding of its impact on device performance. Here, the first single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) bio‐optoelectronic transistor enabled by the site‐specific direct interfacing with a green fluorescent protein (GFP) via genetically encoded phenyl azide photochemistry is reported. The electrical behavior of individual semiconducting SWCNTs depends on the protein residue coupling site and provides the basis to design eco‐friendly phototransistors and optoelectronic memory. Attachment at one GFP residue proximal to the chromophore produces a wavelength‐specific phototransistor. The bio‐transistor can be switched off in less than 38 s with responsivity up to 7 × 103 A W−1 at 470 nm. Attachment via a second residue distal to the chromophore generates optoelectronic memory that show rapid and reproducible conductivity switching with up to 15‐fold modulation that is restored on the application of a gate voltage. Therefore, photoactive proteins, especially GFP, can be realized as a key material for novel single‐molecule electronic and photonic devices.
Polarization‐Sensitive Photodetectors Based on Directionally Oriented Organic Bulk‐Heterojunctions
Authors: Perevedentsev Aleksandr , Mejri Hadhemi , Ruiz‐Preciado Luis A. , Marszalek Tomasz , Lemmer Uli , Blom Paul W. M. , Hernandez‐Sosa Gerardo
Published: February 2022

Polarized spectroscopic photodetection enables numerous applications in diverse areas such as sensing, industrial quality control, and visible light communications. Although organic photodetectors (OPDs) can offer a cost‐effective alternative to silicon‐based technology—particularly when flexibility and large‐area arrays are desired—polarized OPDs are only beginning to receive due research interest. Instead of resorting to external polarization optics, this report presents polarized OPDs based on directionally oriented blends of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and benchmark polymer or nonfullerene acceptors fabricated using a versatile solution‐based method. Furthermore, a novel postprocessing scheme based on backfilling and plasma etching is advanced to ameliorate high dark‐currents that are otherwise inherent to fibrillar active layers. The resulting polarized P3HT:N2200 OPDs exhibit a broad enhancement across all principal figures of merit compared to reference isotropic devices, including peak responsivities of 70 mA W−1 and up to a threefold increase in 3 dB bandwidth to 0.75 MHz under parallel‐polarized illumination. Polarization ratios of up to 3.5 are obtained across a spectral range that is determined by the specific donor–acceptor combinations. Finally, as a proof‐of‐concept demonstration, polarized OPDs are used for photoelasticity analysis of rubber films under tensile deformation, highlighting their potential for existing and emerging applications in advanced optical sensing.
Coupled Ionic–Electronic Charge Transport in Organic Neuromorphic Devices
Authors: Felder Daniel , Femmer Robert , Bell Daniel , Rall Deniz , Pietzonka Dirk , Henzler Sebastian , Linkhorst John , Wessling Matthias
Published: February 2022

Conductive polymer devices with tunable resistance allow low‐energy, linear programming for efficient neuromorphic computing. Depolarizing impurities, however, are difficult to exclude and limit device performance through nonideal writes and self‐discharge. It is shown that these phenomena can be numerically described by combining two‐phase charge transport models with electrochemical self‐discharge. The simulations accurately reproduce the experimental data, including cyclic voltammetry and standard neuromorphic functions, such as linear programming of discrete states and short‐term potentiation. Impurities affect device write accuracy significantly for long programming times above 1000 ms. The effect is reduced to 0.03% for shorter times. Self‐discharge is impacted by device potential as well as impurity concentration. A model‐based trade‐off between operating parameters nearly triples the number of usable conductance states at ambient conditions. Understanding these device limitations as well as workarounds is a vital step toward the implementation of neuromorphic device networks.
HTR1A Inhibits the Progression of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer via TGF‐β Canonical and Noncanonical Pathways
Authors: Liu Qiqi , Sun Hefen , Liu Yang , Li Xuan , Xu Baojin , Li Liangdong , Jin Wei
Published: February 2022

Triple‐negative breast cancer is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer and the incidence of depression in breast cancer patients is high, which leading to worse survival and increased risk of recurrence. The effect of antidepressants on breast cancer patients remains contradictory, which might be due to variations in antidepression targets. Therefore, there is significant value to explore the antitumor potential of antidepressants and discover new therapeutic targets for breast patients. The authors screen antidepressant‐related oncogenes or suppressors by using siRNAs. After combining functional experiments with online database analysis, 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (HTR1A is selected with antitumor potential in breast cancer cells in vivo and in vitro. RNA‐seq analysis and coimmunoprecipitation assays indicate that HTR1A interacts with TRIM21 and PSMD7 to inhibit the degradation of TβRII through the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway, thereby inhibiting the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) canonical and noncanonical pathway. In addition, HTR1A is an independent predictive factor for breast cancer patients. The combined treatment of HTR1A agonists with demethylation drugs may significantly improve patient survival. It is of great significance to clarify the function and mechanism of the depression‐related gene HTR1A in breast cancer, which might provide a new approach for triple‐negative breast cancer patients.
Concave Pt–Zn Nanocubes with High‐Index Faceted Pt Skin as Highly Efficient Oxygen Reduction Catalyst
Authors: Liu Mengli , Lu Bang‐An , Yang Gege , Yuan Pengfei , Xia Huicong , Wang Yajin , Guo Kai , Zhao Shuyan , Liu Jia , Yu Yue , Yan Wenfu , Dong Chung‐Li , Zhang Jia‐Nan , Mu Shichun
Published: February 2022

High dosage of expensive Pt to catalyze the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on the cathode severely impedes the commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Therefore, it is urgent to cut down the Pt catalyst by efficiently improving the ORR activity while maintaining high durability. Herein, magic concave Pt–Zn nanocubes with high‐index faceted Pt skin (Pt78Zn22) are proposed for high‐efficiency catalysis toward proton exchange membrane fuel cells. These unique structural features endow the Pt‐skin Pt78Zn22/KB with a mass activity of 1.18 mA μgPt–1 and a specific activity of 3.64 mA cm–2 for the ORR at 0.9 V (vs RHE). Meanwhile, the H2–O2 fuel cell assembled by this catalyst delivers an ultrahigh peak power density of ≈1449 mW cm–2. Both experiments and theoretical calculations show that the electronic structure of the surface is adjusted, thereby shortening the length of the Pt–Pt bond and reducing the adsorption energy of OH*/O* on the Pt surface. This work demonstrates the synergistic effect of the oxidation‐resistant metal Zn and the construction of Pt‐rich surface engineering. Also, it guides the future development of catalysts for their practical applications in energy conversion technologies and beyond.
Formic Acid to Power towards Low‐Carbon Economy
Authors: Dutta Indranil , Chatterjee Sudipta , Cheng Hongfei , Parsapur Rajesh Kumar , Liu Zhaolin , Li Zibiao , Ye Enyi , Kawanami Hajime , Low Jonathan Sze Choong , Lai Zhiping , Loh Xian Jun , Huang Kuo‐Wei
Published: February 2022

The storage and utilization of low‐carbon electricity and decarbonization of transportation are essential components for the future energy transition into a low‐carbon economy. While hydrogen has been identified as a potential energy carrier, the lack of viable technologies for safe and efficient storage and transportation of H2 greatly limits its applications and deployment at scale. Formic acid (FA) is considered one of the promising H2 energy carriers because of its high volumetric H2 storage capacity of 53 g H2/L, and relatively low toxicity and flammability for convenient and low‐cost storage and transportation. FA can be employed to generate electricity either in direct FA fuel cells (FCs) or indirectly as an H2 source for hydrogen FCs. FA can enable large‐scale chemical H2 storage to eliminate energy‐intensive and expensive processes for H2 liquefaction and compression and thus to achieve higher efficiency and broader utilization. This perspective summarizes recent advances in catalyst development for selective dehydrogenation of FA and high‐pressure H2 production. The advantages and limitations of FA‐to‐power options are highlighted. Existing life cycle assessment (LCA) and economic analysis studies are reviewed to discuss the feasibility and future potential of FA as a fuel.
Generalization of thermodynamic Langmuir isotherm for mixed‐gas adsorption equilibria
Authors: Hamid Usman , Vyawahare Pradeep , Tun Hla , Chen Chau‐Chyun
Published: February 2022

This work presents a comprehensive thermodynamic model for both pure component isotherms and mixed‐gas adsorption equilibria. A generalization of thermodynamic Langmuir isotherm, the proposed model assumes competitive adsorption of multiple adsorbates on adsorbent surface for mixed‐gas adsorption equilibria, and it applies an area‐based adsorption nonrandom two‐liquid activity coefficient model in the activity coefficient calculations for the adsorbate phase. The resulting generalized Langmuir isotherm properly captures both surface loading dependence and adsorbate phase composition dependence for mixed‐gas adsorption equilibria. The model is validated with accurate representations of gas adsorption equilibrium data for varieties of unary, binary, and ternary gas systems. The model results are further compared with those calculated from extended Langmuir isotherm and Ideal Adsorbed Solution Theory.
Genuine Tripartite Entanglement as a Probe of Quantum Phase Transitions in a Spin‐1 Heisenberg Chain with Single‐Ion Anisotropy
Authors: Kam Chon‐Fai , Chen Yang
Published: February 2022

The quantum phase transitions of spin‐1 Heisenberg chains with an easy‐axis anisotropy Δ and a uniaxial single‐ion anisotropy D are studied using a multipartite entanglement approach. The genuine tripartite entanglement between the spin blocks, measured by the tripartite qutrit hyperdeterminant, is calculated within the quantum renormalization group method. Using this approach, the phase boundaries between the topological Haldane, large‐D, and anti‐ferromagnetic Néel phases are determined in the half plane with . When the size of the spin blocks increases, the genuine tripartite entanglement between the blocks exhibits a nonzero plateau in the topological Haldane phase, and experiences abrupt drops at both the phase boundaries between the Haldane–large‐D and Haldane–Néel phases, which suggests the usage of genuine multipartite entanglement as a probe of topological phases in spin systems.
Morphology, defects and polymer concentration related nonlinear absorption and optical limiting properties of electrospun polyamide 6 nanofibers
Authors: Pepe Yasemin , Akkoyun Serife , Karatay Ahmet , Yildiz Elif Akhuseyin , Unver Huseyin , Ates Aytunc , Elmali Ayhan
Published: February 2022

The effects of morphology, defects and polymer concentration on nonlinear absorption characteristics of electrospun polyamide 6 (PA 6) nanofibers were studied systematically. Scanning electron microscopy measurements showed that a deviation from uniform nanofibers to irregular cob‐web nanofibers morphology occurred with increasing PA 6 concentration and fiber diameter. Open aperture Z‐scan results indicated that the thinner uniform PA 6 nanofibers present higher nonlinear absorption. This observation is mainly attributed to a greatest light scattering for thicker uniform nanofibers, considering the linear optical analysis of the PA 6 nanofibers. As a secondary factor, this could be associated with defect state distribution within the band gap, which facilitates the contribution of two photon absorption (TPA) and free carrier absorption (FCA) to nonlinear absorption. Moreover, the thinner uniform nanofibers exhibit higher optical limiting behavior. Polyamide 6 nanofibers attract more attention for biomedical applications due to their good biocompatibility. However, to our knowledge, no study exists on PA 6 nanofibers nonlinear optical properties and their dependency on nanofiber morphology. Therefore, in line with the reported results, this report reveals that PA 6 nanofibers are a promising material for optoelectronic applications as well as biomedical applications.
miR‐23b/TAB3/NF‐κB/p53 axis is involved in hippocampus injury induced by cerebral ischemia–reperfusion in rats: The protective effect of chlorogenic acid
Authors: Roshan‐Milani Shiva , Sattari Parisa , Ghaderi‐Pakdel Firouz , Naderi Roya
Published: February 2022

Apoptosis is the main pathological aspect of neuronal injury after cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury. However the detailed molecular mediators are still under debate. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of cerebral I/R on miR‐23a/TGF‐β‐activated kinase 1 binding protein 3 (TAB3)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB)/p53 axis in rat hippocampus alone and in combination with chlorogenic acid (CGA). Common carotid artery occlusion (CCAO) was performed by nylon monofilament for 20 min to establish a model of ischemic brain injury. CGA (30 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally (ip), 10 min prior to ischemia and 10 min before reperfusion. Examination of hippocampus neurons by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling staining showed that the number of apoptotic neurons was elevated at 24 h after reperfusion. At the molecular levels, I/R injury resulted in an increased protein expression of p53 with a concomitant upregulation of cleaved‐caspase3/phosphorelated‐caspase3 ratio and cytochrome c level. Further miR‐23b gene expression was significantly downregulated after 24 h of reperfusion. Also, we observed increased TAB3 and NF‐κB protein expressions after 24 h following CCAO. Treatment with CGA significantly reduced the apoptotic damage and also reversed miR‐23b gene expression, TAB3 and NF‐κB protein expressions in hippocampus neurons in I/R rats. In conclusion our data suggest that miR‐23b/TAB3/NF‐κB/p53 axis could play a regulatory role in hippocampus cell death, which provide a new target for novel therapeutic interventions during transit ischemic stroke. It also demonstrated that CGA could reverse these molecular alterations indicating an effective component against hippocampus apoptotic insult following acute I/R injury.
Botulinum toxin injection attenuates nonodontogenic toothache: A case report
Authors: Chavan Parimal , Raman SwarnaLakshmi , Waskitho Arief , Dalanon Junhel , Yoshihara Yasutomo , Okura Kazuo , Miyamoto Ryosuke , Matsuka Yoshizo
Published: February 2022

Nonodontogenic myofascial pain on a 39‐year‐old female patient presented with pain in the lower left quadrant of the jaw. Root canal treatment, replacement of inlay, and behavioral modifications were carried out. Injection of botulinum toxin A at left masseter muscle reduced the toothache.
Disrupting Transcription and Folate Biosynthesis Leads to Synergistic Suppression of Escherichia coli Growth
Authors: Chen Pei‐Hsin , Sung Li‐Kang , Hegemann Julian D. , Chu John
Published: February 2022

The use of synergistic antibiotic combinations has emerged as a viable approach to contain the rapid spread of antibiotic‐resistant pathogens. Here we report the discovery of a new strongly synergistic pair – microcin J25 and sulfamonomethoxine. The former is a lasso peptide that inhibits the function of RNA polymerase and the latter is a sulfonamide antibacterial agent that disrupts the folate pathway. Key to our discovery was a screening strategy that focuses on an antibiotic (microcin J25) that targets a hub (transcription) in the densely interconnected network of cellular pathways. The rationale was that disrupting such a hub likely weakens the entire network, generating weak links that potentiate the growth inhibitory effect of other antibiotics. We found that MccJ25 potentiates five other antibiotics as well. These results showcase the merit of taking a more targeted approach in the search and study of synergistic antibiotic pairs.
Lung cancer screening use and implications of varying eligibility criteria by race and ethnicity: 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data
Authors: Williams Randi M. , Li Tengfei , Luta George , Wang Min Qi , Adams‐Campbell Lucile , Meza Rafael , Tammemägi Martin C. , Taylor Kathryn L.
Published: February 2022

Background

In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) expanded the eligibility criteria for low‐dose computed tomographic lung cancer screening (LCS) to reduce racial disparities that resulted from the 2013 USPSTF criteria. The annual LCS rate has risen slowly since the 2013 USPSTF screening recommendations. Using the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), this study 1) describes LCS use in 2019, 2) compares the percent eligible for LCS using the 2013 versus 2021 USPSTF criteria, and 3) determines the percent eligible using the more detailed PLCOm2012Race3L risk‐prediction model.

Methods

The analysis included 41,544 individuals with a smoking history from states participating in the BRFSS LCS module who were ≥50 years old.

Results

Using the 2013 USPSTF criteria, 20.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 19.0‐22.4) of eligible individuals underwent LCS in 2019. The 2013 USPSTF criteria was compared to the 2021 USPSTF criteria, and the overall proportion eligible increased from 21.0% (95% CI, 20.2‐21.8) to 34.7% (95 CI, 33.8‐35.6). Applying the 2021 criteria, the proportion eligible by race was 35.8% (95% CI, 34.8‐36.7) among Whites, 28.5% (95% CI, 25.2‐31.9) among Blacks, and 18.0% (95% CI, 12.4‐23.7) among Hispanics. Using the 1.0% 6‐year threshold that is comparable to the 2021 USPSTF criteria, the PLCOm2012Race3L model selected more individuals overall and by race.

Conclusions

Using data from 20 states and using multiple imputation, higher LCS rates have been reported compared to prior BRFSS data. The 2021 expanded criteria will result in a greater number of screen‐eligible individuals. However, risk‐based screening that uses additional risk factors may be more inclusive overall and across subgroups.

Lay Summary

In 2013, lung cancer screening (lung screening) was recommended for high risk individuals.

The annual rate of lung screening has risen slowly, particularly among Black individuals.

In part, this racial disparity resulted in expanded 2021 criteria.

Survey data was used to: 1) describe the number of people screened in 2019, 2) compare the percent eligible for lung screening using the 2013 versus 2021 guidelines, and 3) determine the percent eligible using more detailed criteria.

Lung screening rates increased in 2019, and the 2021 criteria will result in more individuals eligible for screening.

Using additional criteria may identify more individuals eligible for lung screening.
SiC Monolayers as Promising Substrates for the Development of Highly Stable Palladium Single Atom Catalysts: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Lim San Hua , Poh Chee Kok
Published: February 2022

Single‐atom catalysts have been touted as highly efficient catalysts, but the catalytic single‐atom sites are unstable and tend to aggregate into nanoparticles during chemical reactions. In this study, we show that SiC monolayers are promising substrates for the development of highly stable single‐atom catalysts (Pd1/SiC) within the density functional theory. In presence of a Si‐vacancy, the diffusion barrier energy of a Pd1 atom embedded in the SiC monolayer is substantially enhanced from 2.3 to 7.8 eV, which is much higher than the reported diffusion barrier energies of graphene, boron nitride and defective MgO of the same catalytic system. Ab initio molecular dynamic calculations at 500 K also confirm the enhanced stability of Pd1/SiC monolayer (Si‐vacancy) such that the Pd1 atom remains embedded in the vacancy. Additionally, the Pd1/SiC monolayer (Si‐vacancy) catalysts show a ∼34 % reduction of activation barrier energy for CO oxidation as compared to pristine catalysts. This work implies that nanostructured SiC materials are promising substrates for the synthesis of highly stable single‐atom catalysts.
New directions in the mental health care of migrants, including refugees—A randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of value‐based counselling
Authors: Orang Tahereh Mina , Missmahl Inge , Thoele Anna‐Maria , Valensise Livia , Brenner Anna , Gardisi Maryam , Peter Helmut , Kluge Ulrike
Published: February 2022

Objective

Specialized literature has identified a need for evidence‐based, low‐threshold, short‐term, and intracultural psychological interventions that can be made available to migrants, including refugees, who suffer from psychological symptoms in host countries. The objective of the present study is to measure the efficacy of value‐based counselling (VBC) as such an intervention.

Method

We conducted a pragmatic, rater‐blinded randomized controlled trial employing a pre‐post control group design to assess the efficacy of VBC based on a study sample of 103 migrants, including refugees, who resided in Germany at the time. A set of instruments was used to evaluate primary outcome measures of depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, perceived stress, generalized anxiety, and somatic complaints.

Results

Per protocol analysis included 42 participants in the VBC group, and 43 in the waiting list. Compared with participants in the waiting‐list group, the VBC group, following an average of four counselling sessions, experienced a clinically meaningful reduction of depression (adjusted difference 7.06, 95% CI [4.86, 9.26], effect size 0.68, p < .001), PTSD (adjusted difference 17.15, 95% CI [10.49, 23.81], effect size 0.76, p < .001), perceived stress (adjusted difference 9.25, 95% CI [6.23, 12.27], effect size 0.75, p < .001), anxiety (adjusted difference 5.34, 95% CI [3.47, 7.20], effect size 0.70, p < .001), and somatic complaints (adjusted difference 5.52, 95% CI [3.30, 7.74], effect size 0.72, p < .001). The positive outcomes were maintained at 3‐month follow‐up. Utilization of mental health services was significantly reduced at the 3‐month follow‐up conducted with participants of the VBC group.

Conclusions

VBC, a culturally sensitive and strength‐based mental health service, is an effective short‐term intervention which meets the specific mental health needs of migrants, including refugees.
Trainee therapist personality and the rating of cognitive behavioural and dynamic interpersonal therapy processes
Authors: Lewis Andrew J. , Locke Vance , Heritage Brody , Seddon Sarah
Published: February 2022

Therapist factors are generally thought to be important predictors of the capacity to understand and respond to clinical material. The current study aims to identify which features of personality and clinical symptomatology predict a trainee therapist's rating of cognitive behavioural (CB) and psychodynamic interpersonal (PI) processes in video recordings of these therapies. Eighty psychology trainees completed the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory‐2‐Restructured Form (MMPI‐2‐RF) and watched two video recordings of therapy sessions showing prototypical examples of CB and PI psychotherapy, rating the processes they could identify using the Comparative Psychotherapy Process Scale (CPPS). Trainees accurately differentiated CB from PI process while viewing the CB session but rated the CB video higher in PI processes than the PI video itself. Bayesian regression models showed that the most consistent MMPI‐2‐RF scale that predicted variance in ratings was hypomanic activation (RC9) predicting higher ratings of all psychotherapy processes in both conditions, while clinical scale factors such as Aggressiveness‐Revised (AGGR‐r) and personality scale factors of Psychoticism‐Revised (PSYC‐r) and Negative Emotionality/Neuroticism‐Revised (NEGE‐r) showed some notable but less consistent predictions. The variances in psychotherapy process ratings accounted for by MMPI‐2‐RF scales ranged from 15% to 51%. The study suggests that some clinical symptoms and personality factors do influence the rating of psychotherapy processes by psychology trainees, but further studies would be required to substantiate such findings. These findings have relevance to therapist training and selection for clinical training and therapist mental health.
Corporate Social Responsibility due diligence among European companies: The results of an interventionist research project with accountability and political implications
Authors: Camoletto Stefania , Corazza Laura , Pizzi Simone , Santini Erica
Published: February 2022

For decades, companies found in international protocols and standards an alternative source of normative guidance to operatively implement sustainability policies at an organisational level. The ever‐increasing adoption of these multi‐faceted policies and guidelines co‐occurs with a more proactive and voluntaristic attitude towards CSR implementation by companies. Born as a kind of soft corporate law to reinforce a regulatory answer to sustainability issues, today, CSR due diligence is becoming a central pillar of the transition of the economic system towards a great level of sustainable development. The paper presents the results of an interventionist research carried out by researchers in collaboration with the European Parliament, aimed at developing a normative resolution on the prominent role of CSR due diligence and its accountability. Through the exploration of the different state‐of‐the‐art of European companies on CSR due diligence, findings suggest that there is considerable room for improvement in CSR due diligence that can be reached through a normative intervention. In addition, the paper contributes to the development of the literature on interventionist research carried out by business scholars, focusing on academia‐industry‐institutions relations.
In Situ Directional Polymerization of Poly(1,3‐dioxolane) Solid Electrolyte Induced by Cellulose Paper‐Based Composite Separator for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Ma Jian , Wu Yueyue , Jiang Hao , Yao Xin , Zhang Fan , Hou Xianglong , Feng Xuyong , Xiang Hongfa
Published: February 2022

In traditional in situ polymerization preparation for solid‐state electrolytes, initiators are directly added to the liquid precursor. In this article, a novel cellulose paper‐based composite separator is fabricated, which employs alumina as the inorganic reinforcing material and is loaded with polymerization initiator aluminum trifluoromethanesulfonate. Based upon this, a separator‐induced in situ directional polymerization technique is demonstrated, and the extra addition of initiators into liquid precursors is no longer required. The polymerization starts from the surface and interior of the separator and extends outward with the gradually dissolving of initiators into the precursor. Compared with its traditional counterpart, the separator‐induced poly(1,3‐dioxolane) electrolyte shows improved interfacial contact as well as appropriately mitigated polymerization rate, which are conducive to practical applications. Electrochemical measurement results show that the prepared poly(1,3‐dioxolane) solid electrolyte possesses an oxidation potential up to 4.4 V and a high Li+ transference number of 0.72. After 1000 cycles at 2 C rate (340 mA g−1), the assembled Li||LiFePO4 solid battery possesses a 106.8 mAh g−1 discharge capacity retention and 83.5% capacity retention ratio, with high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.5% achieved. Our work may provide new ideas for the design and application of in situ polymerization technique for solid electrolytes and solid batteries.
Do the means affect the ends? Radical tactics influence motivation and action tendencies via the perceived legitimacy and efficacy of those actions
Authors: Lizzio‐Wilson Morgana , Thomas Emma F. , Louis Winnifred R. , Amiot Catherine E. , Bury Simon M. , Molenberghs Pascal , Decety Jean , Crane Monique F.
Published: February 2022

Identity, injustice and group efficacy are key motivations for collective action engagement. However, little work has examined factors that influence their emergence. Across three studies (total N = 938), we test whether exposure to different actions (i.e., radical or conventional) and the perceived legitimacy and efficacy of those actions (‘the means’) predict observers’ sense of injustice, identity, group efficacy about the issue, and in turn, future action engagement (‘the ends’). As expected, radical (versus conventional) actions were perceived as less legitimate and effective. These evaluations indirectly predicted lower action via diminished identification and injustice, respectively. Paradoxically, legitimacy and efficacy evaluations also indirectly predicted higher radical and conventional action via diminished group efficacy. Thus, collective action is shaped by and reciprocally influences injustice, identity, and group efficacy. Simultaneous exposure to conventional and radical actions also offset these effects, indicating that conventional actions can mitigate the indirect effects of radical tactics.
Stress‐induced increase of monoclonal antibody production in CHO cells
Authors: Schellenberg Jana , Nagraik Tamanna , Wohlenberg Ole Jacob , Ruhl Sebastian , Bahnemann Janina , Scheper Thomas , Solle Dörte
Published: February 2022

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are of great interest to the biopharmaceutical industry due to their widely used application as human therapeutic and diagnostic agents. As such, mAb require to exhibit human‐like glycolization patterns. Therefore, recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are the favored production organisms; many relevant biopharmaceuticals are already produced by this cell type. To optimize the mAb yield in CHO DG44 cells a corelation between stress‐induced cell size expansion and increased specific productivity was investigated. CO2 and macronutrient supply of the cells during a 12‐day fed‐batch cultivation process were tested as stress factors. Shake flasks (500 mL) and a small‐scale bioreactor system (15 mL) were used for the cultivation experiments and compared in terms of their effect on cell diameter, integral viable cell concentration (IVCC), and cell‐specific productivity. The achieved stress‐induced increase in cell‐specific productivity of up to 94.94.9%–134.4% correlates to a cell diameter shift of up to 7.34 μm. The highest final product titer of 4 g/L was reached by glucose oversupply during the batch phase of the process.
Wetlandscape (dis)connectivity and fragmentation in a large wetland (Haiderpur) in west Ganga plains, India
Authors: Singh Manudeo , Sinha Rajiv , Mishra Arjit , Babu Suresh
Published: February 2022

Wetlands are dynamic ecosystems that require continuous monitoring and assessment of degradation status to design strategies for their sustainable management. While hydrology provides the primary functional control for the wetland ecosystem, the loss of landscape connectivity influences wetland degradation in a major way as it leads to fragmentation. This article aims to integrate hydrogeomorphic and ecological concepts for the assessment of degradation status and its causal factors for a large wetland in the western Ganga plains, India, the Haiderpur, using a wetlandscape approach. We have used a remote‐sensing‐based approach, which offers a powerful tool for assessing and linking cross‐scale structures, functions, and controls in a wetlandscape. The Haiderpur, a Ramsar site since December 2021, is an artificial wetland located on the right bank of the Ganga River wherein the inflows are controlled by a barrage constructed on the Ganga River apart from smaller tributaries flowing in from the north. A novel aspect of this work is the integration of river dynamics and its connectivity to the wetlandscape to understand the spatiotemporal variability in the waterspread area in the wetland. In this work, we have developed an integrated wetlandscape assessment approach by evaluating wetland's geomorphic and hydrological connectivity status for the period 1993–2019 (25 years) across three different spatial scales – regional, catchment, and wetland. We have highlighted the ecological implications of connectivity and patch dynamics for developing sustainable wetland management plans.
Comparative Toxicity of Aquatic Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure in Three Species of Amphibians
Authors: Flynn R. Wesley , Hoover Gary , Iacchetta Michael , Guffey Samuel , de Perre Chloe , Huerta Belinda , Li Weiming , Hoverman Jason T. , Lee Linda , Sepúlveda Maria S.
Published: February 2022

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are contaminants of concern due to their widespread occurrence in the environment, persistence, and potential to elicit a range of negative health effects. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are regularly detected in surface waters, but their effects on many aquatic organisms are still poorly understood. Species with thyroid-dependent development, like amphibians, can be especially susceptible to PFAS effects on thyroid hormone regulation. We examined sublethal effects of aquatic exposure to four commonly detected PFAS on larval northern leopard frogs (Rana [Lithobates] pipiens), American toads (Anaxyrus americanus), and eastern tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum). Animals were exposed for 30 days (frogs and salamanders) or until metamorphosis (toads) to 10, 100, or 1000 μg/L of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), or 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS). We determined that chronic exposure to common PFAS can negatively affect amphibian body condition and development at concentrations as low as 10 µg/L. These effects were highly species dependent, with species having prolonged larval development (frogs and salamanders) being more sensitive to PFAS than more rapidly developing species (toads). Our results demonstrate that some species could experience sublethal effects at sites with surface waters highly affected by PFAS. Our results also indicate that evaluating PFAS toxicity using a single species may not be sufficient for accurate amphibian risk assessment. Future studies are needed to determine whether these differences in susceptibility can be predicted from species' life histories and whether more commonly occurring environmental levels of PFAS could affect amphibians. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1407–1415. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Revival of the heterologous prime‐boost technique in COVID‐19: An outlook from the history of outbreaks
Authors: Siddiqui Amna , Adnan Alishba , Abbas Munib , Taseen Shafaq , Ochani Sidhant , Essar Mohammad Yasir
Published: February 2022

Background

The heterologous prime‐boost vaccination technique is not novel as it has a history of deployment in previous outbreaks.

Aim

Hence, this narrative review aims to provide critical insight for reviving the heterologous prime‐boost immunization strategy for SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination relative to a brief positive outlook on the mix‐dose approach deployed in previous and existing outbreaks (ie, Ebola virus disease (EVD), malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, HIV and influenza virus).

Methodology and Materials

A Boolean search was carried out to find the literature in MEDLINE‐PubMed, Clinicaltrials, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases up till December 22, 2021, using the specific keywords that include “SARS‐CoV2”, “COVID‐19”, “Ebola,” “Malaria,” “Tuberculosis,” “Human Immunodeficiency Virus,” “Hepatitis B,” “Influenza,” “Mix and match,” “Heterologous prime‐boost,” with interposition of “OR” and “AND.” Full text of all the related articles in English language with supplementary appendix was retrieved. In addition, the full text of relevant cross‐references was also retrieved.

Results

Therefore, as generally evident by the primary outcomes, that is, safety, reactogenicity, and immunogenicity reported and updated by preclinical and clinical studies for addressing previous and existing outbreaks so far, including COVID‐19, it is understood that heterologous prime‐boost immunization has been proven successful for eliciting a more efficacious immune response as of yet in comparison to the traditional homologous prime‐boost immunization regimen.

Discussion

Accordingly, with increasing cases of COVID‐19, many countries such as Germany, Pakistan, Canada, Thailand, and the United Kingdom have started administering the heterologous vaccination as the technique aids to rationalize the usage of the available vaccines to aid in the global race to vaccinate majority to curb the spread of COVID‐19 efficiently. However, the article emphasizes the need for more large controlled trials considering demographic details of vaccine recipients, which would play an essential role in clearing the mistrust about safety concerns to pace up the acceptance of the technique across the globe.

Conclusion

Consequently, by combatting the back‐to‐back waves of COVID‐19 and other challenging variants of concerns, including Omicron, the discussed approach can also help in addressing the expected evolution of priority outbreaks as coined by WHO, that is, “Disease X” in 2018 with competency, which according to WHO can turn into the “next pandemic” or the “next public health emergency,” thus would eventually lead to eradicating the risk of “population crisis.”
Mammary‐type myofibroblastoma of the perineum: Typical or rare location?
Authors: Naito Akihiro , Takeshima Yuta , Takahashi Sayuri
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Mammary‐type myofibroblastoma is a rare benign tumor, mainly arising along the embryonal mammary ridge. We report a rare case of mammary‐type myofibroblastoma of the perineum.

Case presentation

A 37‐year‐old Japanese man presented with a 20 mm, progressively‐growing painless mass in the right perineum. Computed tomography showed a subcutaneous tumor with a strong contrast effect. Upon total resection, pathology showed a spindle‐cell tumor positive for desmin but negative for CD34. Further immunohistochemistry showed loss of Rb expression, leading to differential diagnosis. We could not evaluate the exact rarity of the perineal location due to categorization in past reports.

Conclusion

Due to the similarities between mammary and anogenital tissue, we suggest that tallying perineal and vulvar areas separately from the embryonic mammary ridge sites may be beneficial in gaining insight into the pathophysiology of this tumor.
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome: The critical role of the extracellular matrix in pathogenesis and treatment
Authors: Mastronikolis Stylianos , Pagkalou Marina , Baroutas Giorgos , Kyriakopoulou Konstantina , Makri Οlga E. , Georgakopoulos Constantinos D.
Published: February 2022

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEXS) is an age‐related condition manifesting mainly in ocular tissues. PEXS is manifested through excess aggregation of fibrillary extracellular material at the anterior part of the eye that consists of a plethora of biomolecules, such as different proteoglycans (PGs) and glycosaminoglycans. PEXS is often linked to increased intraocular pressure, and can also lead to pseudoexfoliation glaucoma with very poor prognosis. Various stimuli are known to affect PEXS, including oxidation stress (OS), UV radiation and osmotic pressure. OS, is prominently involved on the progression of the syndrome as it promotes fibrogenesis, possibly via the induction of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and other biomolecular effectors. In addition, PEXS initiation is tightly connected with the dysregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis since aberrant expression of ECM molecules is linked to both the accumulation and low degradation of pseudoexfoliation material. This article aims at uncovering the crucial role of various ECM effectors such as lysyl oxidase‐like proteins, matrix metalloproteinases, and TGF‐β1, as well as the biochemical pathways involved in the development and the progression of the PEXS.
Exploring resilience processes of Filipino migrant domestic workers: A multisystemic approach
Authors: Garabiles Melissa R. , Mayawati Elisabeth H. , Hall Brian J.
Published: February 2022

This study identified resilience processes at the individual, family, and community levels among Filipino migrant domestic workers (MDWs). Resilience processes highlight strengths and resources that can enhance positive adaptation to problems that affect this vulnerable migrant group. Data came from focus groups and key informant interviews involving 27 MDWs and 7 key informants. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis and organized according to the socioecological model. Results revealed 7 resilience processes. Financial coping, health management, and spirituality were found across levels. Companionship and emotional support are transacted within family and community levels, whereas expanding knowledge and support occurs at individual and community levels. MDWs and their families prioritize each family member, whereas the community provides legal support. Resilience processes exist across ecological levels. However, individual resilience processes are insufficient, thus necessitating collective agency through familial and community resilience processes and building social structures that facilitate resilience.
Hazard pay for internal medicine resident physicians during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A national survey of program directors
Authors: Uthlaut Brian , Catalanotti Jillian , Kisielewski Michael , McGarry Kelly , Finn Kathleen
Published: February 2022

Background

Hazard pay for resident physicians has been controversial in the COVID‐19 pandemic. Program director (PD) beliefs about hazard pay and the extent of provision to internal medicine (IM) residents are unknown.

Objective

To evaluate hazard pay provision to residents early in the COVID‐19 pandemic and pandemic and residency program characteristics associated with hazard pay.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A nationally representative survey was conducted of 429 US/US territory‐based IM PDs from August to December 2020.

Main Outcome and Measures

Hazard pay provision and PD beliefs about hazard pay were tested for association with factors related to the pandemic surge and program characteristics.

Results

Response rate was 61.5% (264/429); 19.5% of PDs reported hazard pay provision. PD belief about hazard pay was equivocal: 33.2% agreed, 43.1% disagreed, and 23.7% were uncertain. Hazard pay occurred more commonly in the Middle‐Atlantic Census Division (including New York City) and with earlier surges and greater resident participation in COVID‐19 patient care. Hazard pay occurred more commonly where PDs supported hazard pay (74.5% vs. 22.1%, p = .018). Reasons most frequently given in support of hazard pay were essential worker status, equity, and schedule disruption. Those opposed cited professional obligation and equity.

Conclusion

Hazard pay for IM residents early in the COVID‐19 pandemic was nominal but more commonly associated with heavily impacted institutions. Although PD beliefs were mixed, positive belief was associated with provision. The unique role of residents as both essential workers and trainees might explain our varied results. Further investigation may inform future policy, especially in times of crisis.
Long‐term functional outcomes and mortality after hospitalization for extracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Parks Anna L. , Jeon Sun Y. , Boscardin W. John , Steinman Michael A. , Smith Alexander K. , Covinsky Kenneth E. , Fang Margaret C. , Shah Sachin J.
Published: February 2022

Background

The effects of extracranial hemorrhage (ECH), or bleeding outside the brain, are often considered transient. Yet, there are few data on the long‐term and functional consequences of ECH.

Objective

Define the association of ECH hospitalization with functional independence and survival in a nationally representative cohort of older adults.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study.

Settings and Participants

Data from the Health and Retirement Study from 1995 to 2016, a nationally representative, biennial survey of older adults. Adults aged 66 and above with Medicare linkage and at least 12 months of continuous Medicare Part A and B enrollment.

Intervention

Hospitalization for ECH.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Adjusted odds ratios and predicted likelihood of independence in all activities of daily living (ADLs), independence in all instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and extended nursing home stay. Adjusted hazard ratio and predicted likelihood for survival.

Results

In a cohort of 6719 subjects (mean age 77, 59% women) with average follow‐up time of 8.3 years (55,767 person‐years), 736 (11%) were hospitalized for ECH. ECH was associated with a 15% increase in ADL disability, 15% increase in IADL disability, 8% increase in nursing home stays, and 4% increase in mortality. After ECH, subjects became disabled and died at the same annual rate as pre‐ECH but never recovered to pre‐ECH levels of function. In conclusion, hospitalization for ECH was associated with significant and durable declines in independence and survival. Clinical and research efforts should incorporate the long‐term harms of ECH into decision‐making and strategies to mitigate these effects.
An ecosystem perspective on tourism: The implications for tourism organizations
Authors: Hillebrand Bas
Published: February 2022

This conceptual paper provides a theoretical perspective on tourism that goes beyond merely acknowledging the fact that tourism organizations have to take into account multiple actors. It contributes to the tourism literature by (1) conceptualizing ecosystems in such a way that it embraces the complexity inherent in tourism ecosystems and enabling a truly holistic perspective on tourism and (2) describing the organizational capabilities that are needed for dealing with this complexity. Four distinct but interrelated capabilities are distinguished: mapping the ecosystem, dealing with tension, involving the ecosystem, and effectuating the ecosystem.