bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lignin as Polymer Electrolyte Precursor for Stable and Sustainable Potassium Batteries
Authors: Trano Sabrina , Corsini Francesca , Pascuzzi Giuseppe , Giove Elisabetta , Fagiolari Lucia , Amici Julia , Francia Carlotta , Turri Stefano , Bodoardo Silvia , Griffini Gianmarco , Bella Federico
Published: April 2022

Potassium batteries show interesting peculiarities as large‐scale energy storage systems and, in this scenario, the formulation of polymer electrolytes obtained from sustainable resources or waste‐derived products represents a milestone activity. In this study, a lignin‐based membrane is designed by crosslinking a pre‐oxidized Kraft lignin matrix with an ethoxylated difunctional oligomer, leading to self‐standing membranes that are able to incorporate solvated potassium salts. The in‐depth electrochemical characterization highlights a wide stability window (up to 4 V) and an ionic conductivity exceeding 10−3 S cm−1 at ambient temperature. When potassium metal cell prototypes are assembled, the lignin‐based electrolyte attains significant electrochemical performances, with an initial specific capacity of 168 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 and an excellent operation for more than 200 cycles, which is an unprecedented outcome for biosourced systems in potassium batteries.
Cortical atrophy and amyloid and tau deposition in Down syndrome: A longitudinal study
Authors: Padilla Concepcion , Montal Victor , Walpert Madeleine J. , Hong Young T. , Fryer Tim D. , Coles Jonathan P. , Aigbirhio Franklin I. , Hartley Sigan L. , Cohen Ann D. , Tudorascu Dana L , Christian Bradley T. , Handen Benjamin L. , Klunk William E. , Holland Anthony J. , Zaman Shahid H.
Published: April 2022

Introduction: The Down syndrome population has a high prevalence for dementia, often showing their first clinical symptoms in their 40s. Methods: In a longitudinal cohort, we investigate whether amyloid deposition at time point 1 (TP1) could predict cortical thickness change at time point 2 (TP2). The association between tau burden and cortical thickness was also examined at time point 3 (TP3). Results: Between TP1 and TP2 there was pronounced cortical thinning in temporo‐parietal cortices and cortical thickening in the frontal cortex. Baseline amyloid burden was strongly associated to cortical thinning progression, especially in the temporo‐parietal regions. At TP3, tau deposition negatively correlated with cortical atrophy in regions where tau usually accumulates at later Braak stages. Discussion: A higher amount of amyloid accumulation triggers a cascade of changes of disease‐causing processes that eventually lead to dementia. As expected, we found that regions where tau usually accumulates were those also displaying high levels of cortical atrophy.
Phenology and production of pollen, nectar, and sugar in 1612 plant species from various environments
Authors: Filipiak Michał , Walczyńska Aleksandra , Denisow Bożena , Petanidou Theodora , Ziółkowska Elżbieta
Published: April 2022

To predict the quantity and quality of food available to pollinators in various landscapes over time, it is necessary to collect detailed data on the pollen, nectar, and sugar production per unit area and the flowering phenology of plants. Similar data are needed to estimate the contribution of plants to the functioning of food webs via the flow of energy and nutrients through the soil–plant‐nectar/pollen‐consumer pathway. Current knowledge on this topic is fragmented. This database represents the first compilation of data on the various food resources produced by 1612 plant species belonging to 755 genera and 133 families, including crop plants and wild plants, annuals and perennials, animal‐ and wind‐pollinated plants, and weeds and trees growing in different ecosystems under various environmental conditions. The data set consists of 103 parameters related to the traits of plant species and geographical and environmental factors, allowing for precise calculations of the amounts of nectar, pollen, and energy provided by plants and available to consumers in the considered flora or ecosystem on a daily basis throughout the year. These parameters, gathered by us and extracted from the available literature, describe pollen, nectar, and sugar production (where applicable, in mass, volume, and concentration units), honey yield, the timing and duration of flowering, flower longevity, number of plants and flowers per unit area, weather conditions (temperature and precipitation), geographical location, landscape, and syntaxonomy. The data were obtained from various, mostly European, pedoclimatic zones, and the majority of the data were available for plant species and communities present in Central Europe, especially in Poland, where research on floral resources has a long tradition. These data are representative of the whole continent and may be used as a reference for plant communities occurring on continents other than Europe since the database allows for the consideration of differences in the production of resources by a single plant species growing in different communities. This data set provides a unique opportunity to test hypotheses related to the functioning of food webs, nutrient cycling, plant ecology, and pollinator ecology and conservation. The data are released under a CC‐BY‐NC‐SA license, and this paper must be properly cited when using the database.
Historical contingency and the role of post‐invasion evolution in alternative community states
Authors: Faillace Cara A. , Grunberg Rita L. , Morin Peter J.
Published: April 2022

Historical contingency has long figured prominently in the conceptual frameworks of evolutionary biology and community ecology. Evolutionary biologists typically consider the effects of chance mutation and historical contingency in driving divergence and convergence of traits in populations, whereas ecologists instead are often interested in the role of historical contingency in community assembly and succession. Although genetic differences among individuals in populations can influence community interactions, variability among populations of the same species has received relatively little attention for its potential role in community assembly and succession. We used a community‐level study of experimental evolution in two compositionally different assemblages of protists and rotifers to explore whether initial differences in species abundances among communities attributed to differences in evolutionary history, persisted as species that continued to evolve over time. In each assemblage, we observed significant convergence between two invaded treatments initially differing in evolutionary history over an observation period equal to ~40–80 generations for most species. Nonetheless, community structure failed to converge completely across all invaded treatments within an assemblage to a single structure. This suggests that whereas the species in the assemblage represent a common selective regime, differences in populations reflecting their evolutionary history can produce long‐lasting transient alternative community states. In one assemblage, we also observed increasing within‐treatment variability among replicate communities over time, suggesting that ecological drift may be another factor contributing to community change. Although subtle, these transient alternative states, in which communities differed in the abundance of interacting species, could nonetheless have important functional consequences, suggesting that the role of evolution in driving these states deserves greater attention.
Microstructure Evolution of Lithium‐Ion Battery Separator under Compressive Loading: In Situ Experiments and Image‐Based Finite Simulations
Authors: Ai Shigang , Xiao Mingming , Chen Jian , Wang Panding , Li Na , He Jianchao , Song Wei-Li , Chen Hao-Sen
Published: April 2022

The separator is the weakest mechanical part of a lithium‐ion battery. The displacement load formed by the expansion of an electrode induces the microstructure evolution of the separator, such as decreasing porosity and increasing tortuosity, which affects its ability to transport Li+ and degrades battery performance. Herein, an in situ mechanical loading device combined with focused ion beam–scanning electron microscopy (FIB–SEM) is designed to reveal the real microstructure evolution of a separator under displacement loading. An image‐based finite‐element model is tailored to investigate the microstructure evolution and its nonuniformities of the separator at different deformation levels. The quantitative relationship between the separator porosity and external displacement load is presented based on the experimental and simulation results. Herein, new insight into the degradation mechanisms of commercial lithium‐ion batteries is provided.
A Novel Solvent for Multistep Solution‐Processed Planar CsPbBr3 Perovskite Solar Cells Using In2S3 as Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Chen Jianlin , Qiu Wei , Huang Caiyou , Wu Lin , Liu Chang , Tian Qiaoqiao , Peng Zhuoyin , Chen Jian
Published: April 2022

All‐inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which show potential applications in the semitransparent top cell of tandem solar cells, have attracted tremendous attention owing to their outstanding thermal and moisture stability in an air atmosphere. However, the common solution‐processed CsPbBr3 perovskite films usually suffer from poor phase purity due to the local uncontrolled ratio of CsBr and PbBr2. Herein, a novel 2‐methoxyethanol solvent for CsBr is used in place of methanol to yield high‐quality CsPbBr3 films with better phase purity as well as larger and more uniform grains. Meanwhile, a facile and controllable reflux condensation technique is proposed to prepare In2S3 thin films for the electron transport layer (ETL) of CsPbBr3 PSCs. Therefore, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of all‐inorganic planar CsPbBr3 PSCs with the architecture of FTO/In2S3/CsPbBr3/carbon is increased from 5.83% to 6.42%. By adjusting the reflux condensation temperature (80, 100, 120, or 140 °C) and tailoring the aggregation of In2S3 colloidal particles, In2S3 thin films with different surface roughnesses are synthesized to optimize the ETL of the devices, which further enhances the short‐current density and boosts the PCE to 6.54%.
Deep Reinforcement Learning Based on Driver Experience Embedding for Energy Management Strategies in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Hu Dong , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: April 2022

Reinforcement learning (RL) is a solution with great potential for hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) energy management strategies (EMS). However, traditional deep reinforcement learning (DRL) suffers from inefficiency and poor stability during random exploration in action space, so it is necessary to model some advanced driver experience knowledge and combine it with DRL. Herein, an advanced driver experience (DE) model of traffic congestion level and power matching is constructed based on fuzzy clustering and embedded into DRL. The results show that the DE embedding improves the training convergence efficiency of DRL on a power‐split HEV model, where it improves the convergence of the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) by 46.2%. As DE can better adjust engine operating points and vehicle drive modes under various driving cycles, it enables DDPG to improve fuel economy by ≈6.29% while maintaining the terminal state of charge. This study aims to improve the efficiency of action space exploration and optimize the DRL learning strategy, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the design and development of EMS.
The effect of maltobionic acid on bone metabolism markers in healthy Japanese postmenopausal women: A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled crossover study
Authors: Suehiro Daiki , Moriwaki Yuichiro , Fukami Ken , Abe‐Dohmae Sumiko , Ohnishi Motoko
Published: April 2022

Osteoporosis is characterized by compromised bone strengthpredisposing to an increased risk of fracture and is a disease with a high incidence in postmenopausal women. Frequent estrogen deficiency, particularly in postmenopausal women, induces osteoclast activation and is a major contributor to reduced bone mineral density. Maltobionic acid (MB) reportedly promotes mineral resorption and maintains bone mineral density in human clinical trials, although no studies have confirmed that MB improves bone metabolism in humans. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of MB administration on bone‐resorption markers in healthy Japanese postmenopausal women. This was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial. Twenty‐six healthy adult Japanese women who realized that they had passed through more than 1 year of natural menopause and were aged 40–69 years were categorized into three groups. The experimental groups were allowed to consume maltobionic acid syrup 4 g (MB syrup 4 g group), maltobionic acid syrup 2 g plus maltose syrup 2 g (MB syrup 2 g group), and maltose syrup 4 g (placebo group) for 4 weeks. All 26 participants completed the intervention. Continuous ingestion of MB syrup 2 g or 4 g for 4 weeks significantly reduced the levels of bone‐resorption markers deoxypyridinoline (DPD) and urinary N‐telopeptide (u‐NTx), and significantly increased the bone formation marker osteocalcin (OC) compared with the placebo group. Maltobionic acid (MB) intake may improve bone metabolism and reduce bone health problems, including osteoporosis, in postmenopausal, adult Japanese women. (UMIN‐CTR ID: UMIN000038627).
Ultrasonic treatment of Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide enhances antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity in a mouse D‐galactose‐induced aging model
Authors: Chu Wenhui , Wang Pan , Ma Zhe , Peng Lin , Wang Zongmin , Chen Zilin
Published: April 2022

Utilization of the biological macromolecule Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP) as a functional ingredient is limited by its high intrinsic viscosity and molecular weight. The goal of the present study was to improve rheological properties of DOP by ultrasonic treatment. Such a treatment resulted in the degradation of DOP and consequent reduction of rheological properties. Among DOP samples treated with ultrasonication at low (L), medium (M), and high (H) power intensities (25, 50, 75 w/cm2), M‐DOP displayed the highest reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) radical scavenging activity in vitro. In a mouse D‐galactose (D‐Gal)‐induced aging model, M‐DOP significantly increased activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduced levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in liver. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis indicated that M‐DOP upregulated messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of anti‐inflammatory/antioxidant proteins such as Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor), hemeoxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) in liver. In summary, M‐DOP displayed a strong radical scavenging activity in vitro, and ameliorated liver injury in the mouse aging model through the promotion of Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 signaling pathway.
Age, morbidity, or something else? A residual approach using microdata to measure the impact of technological progress on health care expenditure
Authors: Laudicella Mauro , Li Donni Paolo , Olsen Kim Rose , Gyrd‐Hansen Dorte
Published: April 2022

This study measures the increment of health care expenditure (HCE) that can be attributed to technological progress and change in medical practice by using a residual approach and microdata. We examine repeated cross‐sections of individuals experiencing an initial health shock at different point in time over a 10‐year window and capture the impact of unobservable technology and medical practice to which they are exposed after allowing for differences in health and socioeconomic characteristics. We decompose the residual increment in the part that is due to the effect of delaying time to death, that is, individuals surviving longer after a health shock and thus contributing longer to the demand of care, and the part that is due to increasing intensity of resource use, that is, the basket of services becoming more expensive to allow for the cost of innovation. We use data from the Danish National Health System that offers universal coverage and is free of charge at the point of access. We find that technological progress and change in medical practice can explain about 60% of the increment of HCE, in line with macroeconomic studies that traditionally investigate this subject.
Efficacy of different sentinel lymph node biopsy protocols in oral squamous cell carcinoma: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Suárez Ajuria Maria , Gallas Torreira Mercedes , García García Abel , Marichalar Mendía Xabier , Chamorro Petronacci Cintia M. , Padín Iruegas Elena , Pérez Sayáns Mario
Published: April 2022

The sentinel node biopsy (SNB) is highly protocolized in other cancers, however, this is not the case for oral squamous cell carcinoma patients, hence our objective was to evaluate the different protocols published. A specific study protocol was designed and subsequently registered on PROSPERO (Ref. CRD42021279217). Twenty‐three articles were included in the meta‐analysis. The grouped sensitivity of the SNB was 82% (95% CI: 0.74–0.88), and the grouped specificity was 100% (95% CI: 0.99–1.00). The use of other radiotracers other than pre‐operative lopamidol showed higher values of sensitivity of 82.80% (95% CI: 76.90%–87.50%; p < 0.001). The use of the blue dye stain showed higher sensitivity values of 85.60% (95% CI: 71.90%–93.20%), compared to sensitivity values of 77.50% when it was not used (95% CI: 69.10%–84.20%) (p < 0.001). Diagnostic rates are variable and they were significantly better when 99mTc was used in all its variations and accompanied by the blue dye staining.
Outcomes of a trial of an age‐friendly dining initiative: Dining Co
Authors: Rosso Edoardo , Chen Jinwen , Champion Stephanie , Gordon Susan
Published: April 2022

Objectives

With the rise of age‐friendly cities and communities, increasing attention is being paid to coproducing age‐friendly guidelines with older people and community stakeholders. Little is known however about age‐friendly guidelines for dining establishments.

Methods

A three‐stage study to develop general and contextualised requirements for an age‐friendly dining experience was conducted in the City of Onkaparinga, South Australia. The first stage involved older people in co‐designing aspects of an age‐friendly dining experience. Subsequently, the second and third stage coproduced, trialed and evaluated age‐friendly initiatives with two dining venues.

Results

Through co‐design, seven domains of an age‐friendly dining experience were identified (Menu, Affordability, Dementia Awareness, Venue, Feeling Welcome, Special Offerings and Assistance), alongside an overarching desire for a ‘meaningful’ dining experience. Differences in health and socioeconomic status of diners underpinned the differences needed to ensure an age‐friendly dining experience and highlight the importance of contextualisation for the local population. The trial demonstrated positive outcomes for both older diners and venues.

Discussion

The environment, value and logistics of dining out are important to older people when making choices about dining in the community. The elements of an age‐friendly dining experience presented in this study are a useful starting point for contextualisation to other local settings.
Evaluation of m‐Health‐rehabilitation for respiratory disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Kiani Shamim , Abasi Sanaz , Yazdani Azita
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

Chronic respiratory diseases are prominent causes of morbidity worldwide that impose significant social and economic burdens on individuals and communities. Pulmonary rehabilitation is one of the main aspects of medical rehabilitation. Nowadays, mobile health apps deliver pulmonary rehabilitation support via smartphones. This article presents a systematic review of the literature on m‐Health apps used in respiration disorders rehabilitation.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on MEDLINE (through PubMed), Web of Science, and Scopus in May 2021 without any date limitation. This study was using a combination of keywords and MeSH terms associated with pulmonary rehabilitation. Relevant studies were selected by two independents and were categorized studies results. The inclusion criterion was m‐Health apps for pulmonary rehabilitation and exclusion criteria mobile‐based interventions, by voice call or short message service and cardiopulmonary articles.

Results

Searching scientific databases yielded 161 relevant articles. Then, 27 articles were included in the study with a complete evaluation of the articles. Sixty percent of them were related to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Rehabilitation aiming to improve the quality of life, promote self‐management, encourage physical activity, and reduce the symptoms as the most common goals of pulmonary rehabilitation using m‐Health apps; 89% of these studies showed that m‐Health apps can be effective in improving pulmonary rehabilitation. In addition, 37% of studies reported high usability and acceptance. However, the results of some studies show that adherence to apps decreases in the long run.

Conclusion

Our study shows that m‐Health pulmonary rehabilitation apps are effective in improving the quality of life, self‐management, and physical activity. According to the results, it seems that using the m‐Health apps for pulmonary rehabilitation can be useful in the COVID‐19 pandemic and help reduce respiratory disorders in patients with COVID‐19 disease.
Overland flow velocity and soil properties in established semi‐natural woodland and wood pasture in an upland catchment
Authors: Monger Felicity , Bond Stephanie , Spracklen Dominick V , Kirkby Mike J
Published: April 2022

Management of upland land‐use has considerable potential for mitigating flood risk by increasing topsoil storage and slowing overland flow. Recent work has highlighted the potential for vegetation to impact the velocity of saturation‐excess overland flow. Woodland creation is widely proposed for Natural Flood Management (NFM), but data on saturation‐excess overland flow in woodland habitats is lacking. Here we measure soil properties and overland flow velocities in established broadleaf woodland and wood pasture with an understorey dominated by either grass or bracken. We show that wood pasture dominated by bracken has overland flow velocity 12–20% lower than established broadleaf woodland and 19–27% lower than grass‐dominated wood pasture. Established woodland soils exhibited eight times higher saturated hydraulic conductivity than bracken‐dominated wood pasture and 80 times higher than grass‐dominated wood pasture. We conclude that upland habitats can be managed to reduce flood risk, first by storing storm water in the soil and then by reducing overland flow velocity through rough surface vegetation. These factors combine to reduce floods by delaying the onset of overland flow runoff and slowing its delivery to streams. It is clear than Manning's n is far from constant in these shallow overland flows, the development of overland flow datasets is, therefore, also beneficial for improving the theory and practice of hillslope rainfall‐runoff modelling.
Advising clients on management and husbandry techniques for reptiles and exotics
Authors: Beck Danielle
Published: April 2022

There is a growing trend in the keeping of reptiles as pets within the UK. As a result, more and more of these species are being taken to veterinary practices; many of these are presented with preventable problems caused by inappropriate husbandry. This article highlights advice that practitioners can pass on to their clients, regarding the importance of environment, diet and stress reduction for these animals.
Sub‐chronic cadmium and lead compound exposure induces reproductive toxicity and development of testicular germ cell neoplasia in situ in murine model: Attenuative effects of resveratrol
Authors: Mitra Sreyashi , Patra Tapas , Saha Depanwita , Ghosh Paramita , Mustafi Saunak Mitra , Varghese Alex C. , Murmu Nabendu
Published: April 2022

Cadmium and lead are widespread, nonbiodegradable heavy metals of perpetual environmental concerns. The present study aimed to evaluate whether sub‐chronic exposure to cadmium chloride (CdCl2) and lead acetate [Pb(CH3COO)2] induces reproductive toxicity and development of testicular germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) in swiss albino mice. The effects of resveratrol to reverse the metal‐induced toxicity were also analyzed. The mice were randomly divided into four groups for metal treatments and two groups received two different doses of each metal, CdCl2(0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg) and Pb(CH3COO)2(3 and 6 mg/kg). The fourth group received oral doses of 20 mg/kg resveratrol in combination with 0.5 mg/kg CdCl2or 6 mg/kg Pb(CH3COO)2for 16 weeks. Toxic effects of both metals were estimated qualitatively and quantitatively by the alterations in sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers, testicular histology, and protein expressions of the treated mice. Pronounced perturbation of sperm parameters, cellular redox balance were observed with severe distortion of testicular histo‐architecture in metal exposed mice. Significant overexpression of Akt cascade and testicular GCNIS marker proteins were recorded in tissues treated with CdCl2. Notable improvements were observed in all the evaluated parameters of resveratrol cotreated mice groups. Taken together, the findings of this study showed that long‐term exposure to Cd and Pb compounds, induced acute reproductive toxicity and initiation of GCNIS development in mice. Conversely, resveratrol consumption abrogated metal‐induced perturbation of spermatogenesis, testicular morphology, and the upregulation of Akt cascade proteins along with GCNIS markers, which could have induced the development of testicular cancer.
Anticancer effects of disulfiram in T-cell malignancies through NPL4-mediated ubiquitin–proteasome pathway
Authors: Chen Cunte , Nie Dingrui , Huang Youxue , Yu Xibao , Chen Zheng , Zhong Mengjun , Liu Xin , Wang Xianfeng , Sui Songnan , Liu Zhuandi , Tan Jiaxiong , Yu Zhi , Li Yangqiu , Zeng Chengwu
Published: April 2022

T-cell malignancies, including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and T-cell lymphoma (TCL), are characterized by inferior treatment effects, high heterogeneity, poor prognosis, and a lack of specific therapeutic targets and drugs to improve outcome. Disulfiram (DSF) is a drug used to clinically control alcoholism that has recently been shown to be cytotoxic for multiple cancers. However, the underlying effects and mechanisms of DFS treatment in patients with T-cell malignancies are not well characterized. In this study, we report that DSF promotes apoptosis and inhibits the proliferation of malignant T-cell cell lines and primary T-ALL cells. We provide evidence that DSF exerts anticancer activity in T-cell malignancies by targeting the NPL4-mediated ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. Notably, high expression of NPL4 and 2 ubiquitin–proteasome pathway genes, anaphase-promoting complex subunit 1 (ANAPC1) and proteasome 26S subunit ubiquitin receptor, non-ATPase 2 (PSMD2), was significantly associated with unfavorable overall survival (OS) for patients with TCL and T-ALL (p < 0.05). More importantly, the weighted combination of NPL4, ANAPC1, and PSMD2 could visually display the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates for patients with T-cell malignancies in a nomogram model and facilitate risk stratification. Specifically, risk stratification was an independent predictor of OS for patients with T-cell malignancies. In conclusion, DSF might induce apoptosis and inhibit the proliferation of malignant T-cells via the NPL4-mediated ubiquitin–proteasome pathway and offer a potential therapeutic option for T-cell malignancies.
A literature review on career chance experiences: Conceptualization and sociocultural influences on research
Authors: Kim Namhee
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study is to review the literature on career chance to show how it has developed and been conceptualized and to identify what sociocultural factors have been associated with career change research. Thirty‐eight scholarly empirical journal articles were collected based on the search criteria and reviewed using Torraco's integrative literature review and Garrard's matrix method. The results show that career chance experiences have been conceptualized based on attributes such as inability to plan, human actions involved, and changes in direction, but the current research does not adequately account for cultural traditions.
Periodontitis and cognitive impairment in older adults: The mediating role of mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Li An , Du Mi , Chen Yuntao , Marks Luc A.M. , Visser Anita , Xu Shulan , Tjakkes Geerten‐Has E.
Published: April 2022

Background

Increased attention has been focused on the associations of periodontal disease with the onset and progression of cognitive impairment. Although the associations are likely to be multifactorial, few studies have explored the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the periodontitis‐dementia link.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data of 1,883 participants aged ≥60 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011‒2014 were analyzed. The following data were collected: 1) general information on sociodemographic, behavioral, and health‐related factors; 2) periodontal status (mean attachment loss [AL] and mean probing depth [PD]); 3) mitochondrion‐derived biomarker of mitochondrial dysfunction (blood sample concentration of methylmalonic acid [MMA]); 4) cognitive function (Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's disease immediate recall [CERAD‐IR] and delay recall [CERAD‐DR], animal fluency test, and digit symbol substitution test [DSST]). Mediation analysis weighted for complex survey design was used to assess the effect of MMA on the association of periodontal status with cognitive function after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Participants with Stage III and IV periodontitis had lower scores on cognitive performance and higher MMA levels than those with Stages I/II periodontitis. Circulating MMA was significantly associated with CERAD‐DR (weighted β [SE] = −0.076 [0.011]) and DSST (weighted β [SE] = −0.039 [0.009]), which mediated 9.9% and 6.0% of the total association of mean PD with cognitive function. Moreover, MMA mediated 11.7% and 5.8% of the association of mean AL with CERAD‐DR and DSST, respectively.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that MMA, a biomarker of mitochondrial dysfunction, plays a mediating role in the link between periodontitis and cognitive impairment in older adults aged ≥60 years.
Low‐diffraction transparent micro light‐emitting diode displays with optimized pixel structure
Authors: Yang Qian , Yang Zhiyong , Lan Yi‐Fen , Wu Shin‐Tson
Published: April 2022

Transparent displays suffer from background image blur due to light diffraction when passing through periodic pixel structures. A simple, reference‐image free and semi‐analytical model based on diffraction theory and human eye's angular resolution is proposed to quantitatively evaluate the diffraction effect of transparent displays. Several factors including object distance, resolution and aperture ratio are analyzed with our model to establish guidelines for minimizing the diffraction effect in transparent displays. By optimizing the pixel structures within a 2 × 2‐pixel size region, the relative diffraction intensity is reduced by 42% at the 50% aperture ratio regardless of pixel density, which is valuable for achieving diffraction‐less high resolution and low aperture ratio transparent displays with current fabrication technologies.
Adherence to apixaban for extended thromboprophylaxis after major abdominal or pelvic surgery for cancer: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Schulman Sam , Carlson Vanessa , Serrano Pablo E. , Sne Niv , Kahnamoui Kamyar , Mithoowani Siraj , Ikesaka Rick , Gross Peter L.
Published: April 2022

Background

Due to lack of data, direct oral anticoagulants are not considered by guidelines for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis after cancer surgery. Adherence to low‐molecular‐weight heparin injections in this setting is sometimes poor.

Aim

Analysis of adherence to oral apixaban for extended thromboprophylaxis.

Methods

Consecutive patients discharged after major surgery for abdominal/pelvic cancer and considered eligible for extended prophylaxis were offered apixaban 2.5 mg twice daily. Primary outcomes were adherence metrics—proportion of prescriptions filled, persistence (not prematurely discontinued), proportion of days covered (PDC) based on apixaban pill counts, and modified Morisky medication adherence scale at Days 28–30. Secondary outcomes were bleeding, VTE, and serious adverse events until Day 90.

Results

We included 53 patients, 51 were analyzed. Of 45 patients with prescriptions all had it filled (95% confidence interval [CI], 92%–100%). Persistence was 98% (95% CI, 90%–100%). PDC was ≥80% for 48 patients (94%; 95% CI, 84%–99%). We found good adherence (0/6 answers “yes”) in 75% and moderate (1/6 answers “yes”) in 25%. No major bleed or VTE occurred while on apixaban.

Conclusion

Our results support good adherence with apixaban for VTE prophylaxis up to 28 days after major abdominal or pelvic cancer surgery.
Ultracompact High‐Extinction‐Ratio Nonvolatile On‐Chip Switches Based on Structured Phase Change Materials
Authors: Li Wenfei , Cao Xiyuan , Song Sannian , Wu Longsheng , Wang Ruobing , Jin Yi , Song Zhitang , Wu Aimin
Published: April 2022

Adopting phase change material (PCM) in constructing nonvolatile on‐chip photonic switches has received intensive attention recently. Usually, a large‐area thin PCM film is directly used to construct a switch. Here, subwavelength structured PCM supporting localized resonance are adopted to efficiently improve the switching performance in a moderate bandwidth to obtain an optimal switch of higher switching contrast, smaller footprint, lower energy consumption, and better structure stability. Such a switch consisting of three cascaded Ge2Sb2Te nanodisks with a total volume of only 0.229 µm 35 nm on top of a single mode strip silicon waveguide is demonstrated. In the experimental verification, a high extinction ratio up to 27 dB is supported by the fabricated device as a high performance switch. The proposed design methodology will find its great potential in various large‐scale integration in optical interconnection and optical computing with new architectures or applications.
Producing p‐Doped Surface for Hole Transporting Layer‐Free Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Wen , Dong Xinyun , Chen Jianping , Qin Fei , Sun Lulu , Zhou Xianmin , Zhou Yinhua
Published: April 2022

Hole transporting layer‐free organic solar cells with simplified device structures are desirable for their mass production. In this work, a p‐dopant of organic molybdenum peroxide (OMP) to dope nonfullerene active layers to produce p‐doped surface on the active layer is adopted. The OMP can effectively dope widely used polymer donors of nonfullerene organic solar cells, i.e., PTB7‐Th, PBDB‐T, and even PBDB‐T‐2F that has a very deep highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level of −5.47 eV. The doping mechanism lies in the strong oxidizing property of peroxide groups of the OMP leading to superior doping properties. In the end, hole transporting layer‐free nonfullerene organic solar cells with the device structure of ITO/PEI‐Zn/PBDB‐T‐2F:IT‐4F/Ag are fabricated. The cells show a power conversion efficiency of 12.2% and good thermal stability.
A 0.3 THz VCO using gm‐enhanced technology in 55 nm CMOS
Authors: Fu Haipeng , Song Qi , Ma Kaixue
Published: April 2022

A power combined terahertz (THz) voltage‐controlled oscillator (VCO) is proposed to increase the output power. Based on the traditional transformer‐feedback structure, a new negative conductance enhanced (gm‐enhanced) technology is presented to enhance the start‐up of the proposed THz VCO by adding additional transistors to offset the loss of the source inductance. In addition, a short transmission line is used as a zero‐phase shifter to lock the three single‐core VCOs for consistent frequency, phase, and amplitude. The fully integrated 300 GHz VCO design is fabricated in 55‐nm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process. The measurement results show that by modulating the bias voltage of the transistors, the VCO can achieve a tuning range of 301.2–304.2 GHz with a maximum output power of −7.5 dBm. The chip area is only 554 μm × 530 μm.
Novel high‐efficiency and ultra‐compact low‐pass filter using double‐layered spoof surface plasmon polaritons
Authors: Zhang Xuewei , Sun Shining , Yu Qiming , Wang Lingling , Liao Kun , Liu Shaobin
Published: April 2022

In this letter, a novel ultra‐compact spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs) low‐pass filter which shows a high‐efficiency transmission and an excellent out‐of‐band suppression is investigated. It consists of a pair of double‐layer SSPPs, the top layer using interdigital strip and meander‐line, and the bottom layer is metal gratings of fish‐bone shape. The vast advantages of the proposed SSPPs structure in lower asymptotic frequency mode compared with traditional SSPPs structure with the same size enables the proposed low‐pass filter to be more miniaturized. The dimensions of the miniaturized structure are 0.75λ0 × 0.1λ0 (λ0 is the wavelength corresponding to the central operating frequency). The high‐efficient mode conversion is achieved by gradient meander‐line lengths. Moreover, we also investigate the transmission performance of the proposed structure when it is conformal. To validate the design concept, the prototype of a straight and bend low‐pass filter has been manufactured and measured. The experimental results of the fabricated sample agree with the simulation results well, in which the insertion loss is less than 0.5 dB, the reflection coefficient less than −15 dB, and excellent out‐of‐band rejection of the attenuation is greater than 30 ‐dB, which proves the design validity. The proposed ultra‐compact SSPPs structure may have great potential applications in miniaturized integrated circuits in the microwave and terahertz (THz) frequencies.
Characterizations and performances of polysulfone/graphene oxide with structural defects repaired by cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Yu Yansong , Liang Yuke , Zhang Yue , Xie Zhihui , Chen Jinyao , Zheng Zhuo , Kang Jian , Yang Feng , Cao Ya , Xiang Ming
Published: April 2022

In this article, the nanofillers of graphene oxide (GO) and cellulose nanocrystal (CNC), which called GC, was prepared. The X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), Raman spectra, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were carried out for its characterizations. Besides, its influences on mechanical properties, thermal stability and gas barrier properties of polysulfone (PSF) composites were also studied. The hydrophilic interaction occurs between GO and CNC, so that CNC repaired the structural defects of GO. The intensity ratio of D peak to G peak (ID/IG) in Raman spectra of GC was 0.96, which was less than the raw GO's ID/IG of 1.04. Compared with GO, GC could more effectively improve the tensile strength (+39.8%), elongation‐at‐break (+20.6%), Young's modulus (+30.7%), thermal decomposition temperature (+13°C) and O2 permeability (−95.2%) of PSF composites. At the content of 0.5 wt%, GC had the most significant effect on the performance of PSF composites.
Rhabdomyolysis and coronavirus disease‐2019 in children: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kontou Maria , Kakleas Konstantinos , Kimioni Vaso , Georgiadi Dimitra , Spoulou Vasiliki , Michos Athanasios
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) presents with a variety of symptoms, but rhabdomyolysis has rarely been reported in children.

Case presentation

We report a 10‐year‐old girl who presented with fever, myalgia, and limping. The patient was tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2. On admission, creatine kinase (CK) level was 13 147 units per liter and the patient was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis. She was treated with intravenous fluids, which resulted in CK levels decrease. There are currently seven case reports of children with rhabdomyolysis associated with acute COVID‐19 infection and two reports with the multisystemic inflammatory syndrome.

Conclusion

Children presenting with muscle pain and weakness in the acute phase or following COVID‐19 infection, should alert physicians of the possibility of rhabdomyolysis.
Fresh perspectives on an established technique: Pulsed amplitude modulation chlorophyll a fluorescence
Authors: Zuo Guanqiang , Aiken Robert M. , Feng Naijie , Zheng Dianfeng , Zhao Haidong , Avenson Thomas J. , Lin Xiaomao
Published: April 2022

Pulsed amplitude modulation (PAM) chlorophyll a fluorescence provides information about photosynthetic energy transduction. When reliably measured, chlorophyll a fluorescence provides detailed information about critical in vivo photosynthetic processes. Such information has recently provided novel and critical insights into how the yield potential of crops can be improved and it is being used to understand remotely sensed fluorescence, which is termed solar‐induced fluorescence and will be solely measured by a satellite scheduled to be launched this year. While PAM chlorophyll a fluorometers measure fluorescence intensity per se, herein we articulate the axiomatic criteria by which instrumentally detected intensities can be assumed to assess fluorescence yield, a phenomenon quite different than fluorescence intensity and one that provides critical insight about how solar energy is variably partitioned into the biosphere. An integrated mathematical, phenomenological, and practical discussion of many useful chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters is presented. We draw attention to, and provide examples of, potential uncertainties that can result from incorrect methodological practices and potentially problematic instrumental design features. Fundamentals of fluorescence measurements are discussed, including the major assumptions underlying the signals and the methodological caveats about taking measurements during both dark‐ and light‐adapted conditions. Key fluorescence parameters are discussed in the context of recent applications under environmental stress. Nuanced information that can be gleaned from intra‐comparisons of fluorescence‐derived parameters and intercomparisons of fluorescence‐derived parameters with those based on other techniques is elucidated.
The influence of personality disorder in predicting suicidal behaviour in common mental disorders: A 30‐year study
Authors: Tyrer Peter , Tyrer Helen , Yang Min
Published: April 2022

Two hundred ten patients with anxiety and depressive disorders were followed up over 30 years. Personality status was assessed at baseline using the Personality Assessment Schedule (PAS), an instrument that classifies personality disorder in a similar way to the new ICD‐11 classification. Assessments of suicidal behaviour were made at 5, 12 and 30 years and suicidal thoughts at 12 and 30 years and analysed by personality status, clinical diagnosis and scores on the General Neurotic Syndrome Scale, a combined diagnosis of mixed anxiety depression and personality dysfunction. Suicide attempts were most frequent in the first 5 years of the study and reduced over time. Baseline personality status was the best predictor of suicide attempts at 5 years (no personality disorder 29.3%, personality disorder 51.6%, p = 0.006), and at 12 years (no personality disorder 11.9%, personality disorder 25.7%, p = 0.042), but no important differences were found at 30 years, when comorbid mental state disorder was the strongest predictor (p < 0.001). Similar but less marked findings were found for the general neurotic syndrome. It is concluded that the presence of personality disorder is a robust predictor of suicidal behaviour in the shorter term but in the long‐term comorbid pathology is a better predictor.
Plasma‐coated PCL scaffolds with immobilized platelet‐rich plasma enhance the wound healing in diabetics mice
Authors: Solovieva Anastasiya O. , Permyakova Elizaveta S. , Ershov Konstantin I. , Bakhareva Ksenia I. , Miroshnichenko Svetlana M. , Kiryukhantsev‐Korneev Philipp V. , Konopatsky Anton S. , Polčak Josef , Shtansky Dmitry V. , Manakhov Anton M.
Published: April 2022

COOH plasma polymer layers deposited onto polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers by plasma polymerization of CO2and C2H4in the Ar atmosphere were obtained and tested for diabetic wound healing. Simply by changing the deposition time, very different morphologies of coated PCL nanofibers were achieved. In vivo tests revealed that by applying modified nanofibers for 10 days, wound healing accelerated by 32.1%. Compared to a controlled wound characterized by an acute inflammatory process, wounds covered with nanofibers with platelet‐rich plasma demonstrated complete healing with a high percentage of collagen fibers on Day 19.
Modeling the role of lateral surface flow in low‐relief polygonal tundra
Authors: Jan Ahmad
Published: April 2022

Ice‐wedge polygon troughs play an important role in controlling the hydrology of low‐relief polygonal tundra regions. Lateral surface flow is confined to troughs only, but it is often neglected in model projections of permafrost thermal hydrology. Recent field and modeling studies have shown that, after rain events, increases in trough water levels are significantly more than the observed precipitation, highlighting the role of lateral surface flow in the polygonal tundra. Therefore, understanding how trough lateral surface flow can influence polygonal tundra thermal hydrology is important, especially under projected changes in temperatures and rainfall in the Arctic regions. Using an integrated cryohydrology model, this study presents plot‐scale end‐of‐century projections of ice‐wedge polygon water budget components and active layer thickness with and without trough lateral surface flow under the Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 scenario. Trough lateral surface flow is incorporated through a newly developed empirical model, evaluated against field measurements. The numerical scenario that includes trough lateral surface flow simulates discharge (outflow from a polygon) and recharge (rain‐induced inflow to a polygon trough from upslope areas), while the scenario that does not include trough lateral surface flow ignores recharge. The results show considerable reduction (about 100–150%) in evapotranspiration and discharge in rainy years in the scenarios ignoring trough lateral surface flow, but less effect on soil water storage, in comparison with the scenario with trough lateral surface flow. In addition, the results demonstrate long‐term changes (~10–15 cm increase) in active layer thickness when trough lateral surface flow is modeled. This study highlights the importance of including lateral surface flow processes to better understand the long‐term thermal and hydrological changes in low‐relief polygonal tundra regions under a changing climate.