bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concurrent stimulation of monocytes with CSF1 and polarizing cytokines reveals phenotypic and functional differences with classical polarized macrophages
Authors: An Liying , Michaeli Julia , Pallavi Prama , Breedijk Annette , Xu Xin , Dietrich Nadine , Sigl Martin , Keese Michael , Nitschke Katja , Jarczyk Jonas , Nuhn Philipp , Krämer Bernhard K , Yard Benito A , Leipe Jan
Published: January 2022

In atherosclerotic lesions, macrophages are exposed to CSFs and various microenvironmental cues, which ultimately drive their polarization state. We studied the expression of different CSFs in artery specimen and cultured vascular cells and assessed whether concurrent stimulation (CS) of monocytes with CSF1 and polarizing cytokines generated macrophages (CSM1 and CSM2) that were phenotypically and functionally different from classically polarized M1 and M2 macrophages. We also assessed the influence of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on the capacity of polarized macrophages to stimulate T-cell proliferation. CSF1 was the most prominent CSF expressed in arteries and cultured vascular cells. M1 and CSM1 macrophages differed in CD86 and CD14 expression, which was up-regulated respectively down-regulated by LPS. M2 and CSM2 macrophages were phenotypically similar. Cyclooxygenase expression was different in CSM1 (COX-1− and COX-2+ after LPS stimulation) and CSM2 (COX-1+ and COX-2−) macrophages. TNFα production was more pronounced in CSM1 macrophages, whereas IL-10 was produced at higher levels by CSM2 macrophages. Proliferation of allogeneic T cells was strongly supported by CSM2, but not by CSM1 polarized macrophages. Although ASA did not affect anti-CD3/CD28-mediated proliferation, it significantly reduced CSM2 and CSM1-mediated T-cell proliferation. Supernatants of LPS-stimulated CSM2 but not of CSM1 macrophages could overcome the inhibition by ASA. Hence, we demonstrate that CSM1 and CSM2 macrophages are phenotypically and to some extent functionally distinct from classically polarized M1 and M2 macrophages. CSM2 macrophages produce a COX-1-dependent soluble factor that supports T-cell proliferation, the identity hereof is still elusive and warrants further studies.
Comparative Analysis of Blood T2 Values Measured by T2‐TRIR and TRUST
Authors: Baas Koen P. A. , Coolen Bram F. , Petersen Esben T. , Biemond Bart J. , Strijkers Gustav J. , Nederveen Aart J.
Published: January 2022

Background

Venous blood oxygenation (Yv), which can be derived from venous blood T2 (T2b), combined with oxygen‐extraction fraction (OEF) and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen, is considered indicative for tissue viability and brain functioning and frequently assessed in patients with sickle cell disease. Recently, T2‐Prepared‐Blood‐Relaxation‐Imaging‐with‐Inversion‐Recovery (T2‐TRIR) was introduced allowing for simultaneous measurements of blood T2 and T1 (T1b), potentially improving Yv estimation by overcoming the need to estimate hematocrit.

Purpose

To optimize and compare T2‐TRIR with T2‐relaxation‐under‐spin‐tagging (TRUST) sequence.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

A total of 12 healthy volunteers (six female, 27 ± 3 years old) and 7 patients with sickle cell disease (five female, 32 ± 12 years old).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T; turbo field echo planar imaging (TFEPI), echo planar imaging (EPI), and fast field echo (FFE).

Assessment

T2b, Yv, and OEF from TRUST and T2‐TRIR were compared and T2‐TRIR‐derived T1b was assessed. Within‐ and between‐session repeatability was quantified in the controls, whereas sensitivity to hemodynamic changes after acetazolamide (ACZ) administration was assessed in the patients.

Statistical Tests

Shapiro–Wilk, one‐sample and paired‐sample t‐test, repeated measures ANOVA, mixed linear model, Bland–Altman analysis and correlation analysis. Sidak multiple‐comparison correction was performed. Significance level was 0.05.

Results

In controls, T2b from T2‐TRIR (70 ± 11 msec) was higher compared to TRUST (60 ± 8 msec). In patients, T2b values were lower pre‐ compared to post‐ACZ administration (TRUST: 80 ± 15 msec and 106 ± 23 msec and T2‐TRIR: 95 ± 21 msec and 125 ± 36 msec). Consequently, Yv and OEF were lower and higher pre‐ compared to post‐ACZ administration (TRUST Yv: 68% ± 7% and 77% ± 8%, T2‐TRIR Yv: 74% ± 8% and 80% ± 6%, TRUST OEF: 30% ± 7% and 21% ± 8%, and T2‐TRIR OEF: 25% ± 8% and 18% ± 6%).

Data Conclusion

TRUST and T2‐TRIR are reproducible, but T2‐TRIR‐derived T2b values are significantly higher compared to TRUST, resulting in higher Yv and lower OEF estimates. This bias might be considered when evaluating cerebral oxygen homeostasis.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
G‐quadruplex ligands inhibit chikungunya virus replication
Authors: Lv Lu , Cui Haoran , Chen Zhiyang , Zhou Yixuan , Zhang Leiliang
Published: January 2022

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito‐transmitted alphavirus affecting human health globally. G‐quadruplex secondary structures attract great attention as potential targets for antiviral strategy. In this study, we show that the CHIKV genome possesses several conserved potential G‐quadruplex sequences. G‐quadruplex ligands BRACO‐19 and TMPyP4 could stabilize the CHIKV G‐quadruplex and inhibit the transcription of constructs containing CHIKV G‐quadruplex sequences. Importantly, BRACO‐19 and TMPyP4 suppress CHIKV replication. Our study not only reinforces the presence of viral G‐quadruplex sequences but also suggests that targeting G‐quadruplex structure could represent a novel strategy to inhibit CHIKV.
Redondoviridae infection regulates circRNAome in periodontitis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Chunmei , Zhu Ce , Ye Wei , Gu Qin , Shu Chenbin , Feng Xiping , Chen Xi , Zhang Wen , Shan Tongling
Published: January 2022

Redondoviridae is a recently identified family of DNA viruses associated with periodontitis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are novel endogenous, conserved noncoding RNAs contributing to the virus‐related immune‐inflammatory response. This study aimed to analyze the expression profiles of circRNAs in the gingival tissues of periodontitis patients with and without Redondoviridae‐infection and healthy controls using high‐throughput RNA sequencing combined with experimental validation. Out of 17 819 circRNAs, 175 were dysregulated. Functional annotation and enrichment analysis of the differential circRNA host genes demonstrated potential alterations in the molecular and cellular components and metabolism in individuals suffering from periodontitis with Redondoviridae infection. Moreover, "axon guidance," "lysine biosynthesis," and "vascular endothelial growth factor signaling pathways" were significantly enriched in Redondoviridae‐infected gingivitis tissues. Furthermore, the key circRNAs (circCOL1A1, circAASS, circPTK2, circATP2B4, circDOCK1, circTTBK2, and circMCTP2) associated with the pathobiology of Redondoviridae‐related periodontitis were identified by constructing circRNA–micro RNA (miRNA)–messenger RNA (mRNA) networks. Bioinformatics analyses demonstrated that abnormally expressed circRNAs might contribute to the etiopathogenesis and development of Redondoviridae‐related periodontitis. This study's findings have enhanced the current understanding of the Redondoviridae‐related periodontitis mechanism and provide insights into further applications for diagnostic markers and therapeutic uses.
Enhancement of toyocamycin production through increasing supply of precursor GTP in Streptomyces diastatochromogenes 1628
Authors: Zhang Jinyao , Xu Jie , Li Huijie , Zhang Yongyong , Ma Zheng , Bechthold Andreas , Yu Xiaoping
Published: January 2022

The nucleoside antibiotic toyocamycin (TM), which is produced by Streptomyces diastatochromogenes 1628, exhibits potent activity against a broad range of phytopathogenic fungi. TM was synthesized through a multi‐step reaction, using guanosine triphosphate (GTP) as precursor. Based on a comparison of proteomics data from S. diastatochromogenes 1628 and rifamycin‐resistant mutant 1628‐T15 with high yield of TM, we determined that the differentially expressed protein X0NBV6 called ribose‐phosphate pyrophosphokinase (RHP), which is a rate‐limiting enzyme involved in the de novo biosynthesis of GTP, exhibits a higher expression level in mutant 1628‐T15. In this study, to elucidate the relationships between RHP, GTP, and TM production, the gene rhp

sd
encoding RHP was cloned and overexpressed in S. diastatochromogenes strain 1628. The recombinant strain S. diastatochromogenes 1628‐RHP exhibited better performance at the transcriptional level of the rhp

sd
gene, as well as RHP enzymatic activity, intracellular GTP concentration, and TM production, compared to S. diastatochromogenes 1628. Finally, the yield of TM produced by S. diastatochromogenes 1628‐RHP (340.2 mg/L) was 133.3% higher than that produced by S. diastatochromogenes1628. Moreover, the transcriptional level of toy genes involved in TM biosynthesis was enhanced due to the overexpression of the rhp

sd
gene.
Foot radiographic angle variation as a function of weightbearing magnitude
Authors: Kimura Tadashi , Thorhauer Eric D. , Sangeorzan Bruce J. , Ledoux William R.
Published: January 2022

Weightbearing radiographs are widely used to investigate foot disorders. However, it is unclear how imaging during partial weightbearing affects foot alignment measurements. This study aimed to determine a partial weightbearing threshold that yields consistent measurements of various radiographic angles. Eighteen normal fresh‐frozen cadaveric foot specimens were dissected and prepared for mechanical testing using a custom‐designed, computed tomography‐compatible loading frame. Specimens were placed in a neutral ankle position and scanned in five axial loading conditions (0%, 12.5%, 25%, 37.5%, and 50% bodyweight) using weightbearing computed tomography. (Note 50% bodyweight per foot represents full bodyweight in quiet stance.) The lateral first talometatarsal and calcaneal pitch angles were measured on lateral radiographic projections, and the hallux valgus angle and first−second, fourth−fifth, and first−fifth intermetatarsal angles were measured on axial projection images. The lateral first talometatarsal angle decreased significantly with increased bodyweight loading (p < 0.01). Mean significant decreases in the lateral first talometatarsal angle compared to 0% were 6.6° for 12.5%, 7.6° for 25%, 8.8° for 37.5%, and 10.0° for 50% bodyweight loading; 12.5% to 50% was also significant. There was no significant differences between other loading condition pairings or with increased axial load at other angles. The medial longitudinal arch flattened with increasing axial load, resulting in a decreased lateral first talometatarsal angle. However, this radiographic parameter did not change between the 25% and 50% bodyweight conditions, indicating that partial weightbearing imaging (between 12.5% and 25% bodyweight) might be enough to reproduce the sagittal foot alignments observed under full weightbearing conditions in normal feet.
Raman investigation of local photo‐bleaching in TDBC dye layer for photonics applications
Authors: Gassenq Alban , Pipon Yves , Montagnac Gilles , Boisron Olivier , Martinez Valérie , Bard Antoine , Benoit Jean‐Michel , Symonds Clémentine , Bellessa Joel
Published: January 2022

Local photo‐bleaching in dye layers is a promising method to pattern organic emitters for photonics applications like strong coupling researches or wavelength selective grating fabrication with tetrachloro diethyl benzimidazolo carbocyanine (TDBC) J‐aggregated layers. However, the understanding of the material change with bleaching in such layers is still ambiguous, which limits this method to fully exploit its potential. Raman spectroscopy is a fast, nondestructive, and readily technique to probe a material with micrometer spatial resolution, but the conditions to explore bleached TDBC layers are not well known. In this work, we have investigated active and bleached TDBC layers by Raman spectroscopy at different wavelengths in correlation with their optical properties. For active TDBC, Raman vibrations are well evidenced only in resonant configuration with suitable probe wavelengths (i.e., when layer absorption is high and emission is low). For bleached TDBC, because layer absorption is limited to the ultraviolet (UV) range, Raman peaks are observed only under UV illumination with similar transitions compared with active layer that indicates that TDBC molecules are barely affected by the bleaching mechanism, even if the optical properties are changed around the fundamental transition. Such assumption was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements indicating close stoichiometry and limited changes in the N chemical bonds between active and bleached materials. This study allows a better understanding of the local photo‐bleaching in TDBC dye layer for photonics applications and highlights the deep UV Raman spectroscopy as relevant tool for studying bleached organic emitters.
Effects of wilting during a cloudy day and storage temperature on the fermentation quality and microbial community of Napier grass silage
Authors: Tian Jing , Yin Xiang , Zhang Jianguo
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Wilting affects the chemical compositions and epiphytic microorganisms of grasses to some extent, thereby influencing the fermentation characteristics of silage. The present study investigated the effects of wilting during a cloudy day and ensiling temperature (20, 30 and 40 °C) on the fermentation of Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum).

RESULTS

Wilting during a cloudy day significantly decreased the water‐soluble carbohydrate content (P < 0.05) and significantly increased pH, counts of lactic acid bacteria and aerobic bacteria in grass (P < 0.05). Wilting increased the relative abundance of the Enterobacteriaceae family, as well as genera such as Acinetobacter, Pantoea and Lactococcus, and also decreased that of Sphingomonas and Methylobacterium, in fresh grass. Although ensiling increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, a Enterobacteriaceae genus was the dominant microorganism in Napier grass before ensiling and after ensiling. Wilting increased pH, acetic acid, butyric acid and NH3‐N contents, and also reduced the lactic acid content, of Napier grass silage. Additionally, the fermentation quality of silages at 30 °C was poorer, irrespective of wilting, as indicated by high pH, high butyric acid and NH3‐N contents, high relative abundance of Clostridium and Bifidobacterium, and a low lactic acid content. Ensiling at 40 °C enhanced lactic acid bacteria fermentation and also suppressed clostridial fermentation and the growth of microorganisms in silages.

CONCLUSION

Napier grass should be ensiled immediately after being harvested during a cloudy day and ensiling at 30 °C should be avoided to prevent poor fermentation. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
A clinical trial of nicergoline to prevent temporary threshold shift
Authors: Klamkam Pana , Pagcharoenpol Rongrat , Treesaranuwattana Treewit , Silpsrikul Pichayen , Jaruchinda Pariyanan , Wasuwat Piyalarp , Suwannahitatorn Picha
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of nicergoline to prevent temporary threshold shift (TTS) in military personnel.

Study Design

A randomized control trial.

Methods

Two hundred and twenty‐four participants were enrolled. Nicergoline 30 mg twice daily intake was prescribed to the study group (n = 119) for 3 weeks. The placebo was prescribed to the control group (n = 105) for 3 weeks, as well. Audiometric thresholds were measured at baseline and within 24 h after the participants attended a 1‐day weapons firing practice. During the firing practice, all participants had to wear foam earplugs. The TTS was assessed by using a variety of published significant threshold shift (STS) definitions. Additionally, the effects of the treatment group on the magnitude of pre‐ to postexposure threshold shifts were estimated. Tinnitus and other adverse effects of the medication were recorded.

Results

The incidence of STS was 65.4% from the study group and 75% from the control group. The negative STS (thresholds improved) was 68.6% from the study group and 44.7% from the control group. The positive STS (thresholds worsened) from the study group and the control group was 31.4% and 55.3%, respectively. The effect of treatment in participants receiving nicergoline demonstrated significant coefficients (change in dB) in both ears (p = .001). The mean different threshold of participants receiving nicergoline showed negative STS in all tested frequencies without statistical significance. However, the mean different threshold of participants receiving a placebo showed positive STS with statistical significance. Additionally, there were 16 ears detecting a warning sign of permanent hearing loss. These participants from the control group presented a longer duration of tinnitus (p = .042). Moreover, the serious adverse effects of nicergoline were considerably low.

Conclusion

The study results suggest that nicergoline may attenuate noise‐related TTS and tinnitus, and justify further investigation on the effectiveness of this drug as an otoprotectant.

Level of Evidence

2
THE FLUX SUPERPOWER OF SEEING WHAT’S INVISIBLE
Authors: Rinne April
Published: January 2022

The author explains the concept of a Flux Mindset, which in her words “sees change as an opportunity, not a threat, by being clear and grounded in your values.” There are eight components (or Superpowers) in the Flux Mindset: Run Slower, See What's Invisible, Get Lost, Start with Trust, Know Your “Enough,” Create Your Portfolio Career, Be All the More Human, and Let Go of the Future. The article focuses on the Superpower See What's Invisible. She contends that “to thrive in this world in flux, we need to radically reshape our relationship to uncertainty and “flip the script” to sustain a healthy and productive outlook.” She describes her work and observations in various countries, such as Japan and South Africa, in terms of how people listen, communicate, and relate to each other. She further writes that “an upside‐down world gives everyone an opportunity to consider a new range of solutions and update our scripts. You deserve to see everything: what's visible and invisible. The more holistic your worldview, the greater your capacity to help, to serve, to innovate … and to thrive.” She also provides various methods for achieving the admittedly difficult ability to “see what's invisible.”
The potential of NO+ and O2+• in switchable reagent ion proton transfer reaction time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Hegen Oliver , Salazar Gómez Jorge I. , Schlögl Robert , Ruland Holger
Published: January 2022

Selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT‐MS) and proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry with switchable reagent ion capability (PTR+SRI‐MS) are analytical techniques for real‐time qualification and quantification of compounds in gas samples with trace level concentrations. In the detection process, neutral compounds—mainly volatile organic compounds—are ionized via chemical ionization with ionic reagents or primary ions. The most common reagent ions are H3O+, NO+ and O2+•. While ionization with H3O+ occurs by means of proton transfer, the ionization via NO+ and O2+• offers a larger variety on ionization pathways, as charge transfer, hydride abstraction and so on are possible. The distribution of the reactant into various reaction channels depends not only on the usage of either NO+ or O2+•, but also on the class of analyte compounds. Furthermore, the choice of the reaction conditions as well as the choice of either SIFT‐MS or PTR+SRI‐MS might have a large impact on the resulting products. Therefore, an overview of both NO+ and O2+• as reagent ions is given, showing differences between SIFT‐MS and PTR+SRI‐MS as used analytical methods revealing the potential how the knowledge obtained with H3O+ for different classes of compounds can be extended with the usage of NO+ and O2+•.
Implementation of supply chain management practices and its effect on textile firm's performance at China: A mediation analysis
Authors: Zhong Daojun , Lyu Tengfei
Published: January 2022

The study aims to explain the predictive effect of SCMP on supply chain performance, innovative culture, and firm performance. The quantitative research method was used for data collection, and analysis was done through PLS‐SEM. The results revealed that supply chain management practices significantly influence supply chain performance and textile firm's performance. Furthermore, innovative culture has an insignificant effect on firm performance and on the other side, supply chain performance has a contributory effect on the firm performance. Supply chain performance meditates the relationship between SCMP and FP.
Myocardial T1, T2, T2*, and fat fraction quantification via low‐rank motion‐corrected cardiac MR fingerprinting
Authors: Lima da Cruz Gastao José , Velasco Carlos , Lavin Begoña , Jaubert Olivier , Botnar Rene Michael , Prieto Claudia
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Develop a novel 2D cardiac MR fingerprinting (MRF) approach to enable simultaneous T1, T2, T2*, and fat fraction (FF) myocardial tissue characterization in a single breath‐hold scan.

Methods

Simultaneous, co‐registered, multi‐parametric mapping of T1, T2, and FF has been recently achieved with cardiac MRF. Here, we further incorporate T2* quantification within this approach, enabling simultaneous T1, T2, T2*, and FF myocardial tissue characterization in a single breath‐hold scan. T2* quantification is achieved with an eight‐echo readout that requires a long cardiac acquisition window. A novel low‐rank motion‐corrected (LRMC) reconstruction is exploited to correct for cardiac motion within the long acquisition window. The proposed T1/T2/T2*/FF cardiac MRF was evaluated in phantom and in 10 healthy subjects in comparison to conventional mapping techniques.

Results

The proposed approach achieved high quality parametric mapping of T1, T2, T2*, and FF with corresponding normalized RMS error (RMSE) T1 = 5.9%, T2 = 9.6% (T2 values <100 ms), T2* = 3.3% (T2* values <100 ms), and FF = 0.8% observed in phantom scans. In vivo, the proposed approach produced higher left‐ventricular myocardial T1 values than MOLLI (1148 vs 1056 ms), lower T2 values than T2‐GraSE (42.8 vs 50.6 ms), lower T2* values than eight‐echo gradient echo (GRE) (35.0 vs 39.4 ms), and higher FF values than six‐echo GRE (0.8 vs 0.3 %) reference techniques. The proposed approach achieved considerable reduction in motion artifacts compared to cardiac MRF without motion correction, improved spatial uniformity, and statistically higher apparent precision relative to conventional mapping for all parameters.

Conclusion

The proposed cardiac MRF approach enables simultaneous, co‐registered mapping of T1, T2, T2*, and FF in a single breath‐hold for comprehensive myocardial tissue characterization, achieving higher apparent precision than conventional methods.
Does aging affect the elastic properties of the bladder and the urethra in nulliparous women: An ultrasound shear‐wave elastography study
Authors: Baumfeld Yael , Wei Qi , Chitnis Paraq , Marroquin Joanna , Shobeiri S. Abbas , Alshiek Jonia
Published: January 2022

Objective

To investigate how aging and menopausal status in absence of pregnancy and childbirth affect the elasticity of the bladder and urethra.

Study Design

A single‐center prospective observational study including nulliparous 10 pre‐ and 12 postmenopausal women. Data collection included baseline characteristics, physical examination data, questionnaire scores, PDFI and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire, and pelvic floor sonographic measurements as well as elastography measurements. The shear wave elastography (SWE) of tissue was measured using Kilopascal (kPa). The elastography measurements were taken over the rhabdosphincter, the suburethra smooth muscle, and the trigonal areas.

Results

A total of 22 nulliparous subjects were enrolled in the study. The cohort's mean age was 43.5 years, the mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.8, and 86% were of Caucasian ethnicity. The postmenopausal group was older and with higher BMI (p < 0.001 and p = 0.05). They also had higher scores in all the questionnaires (p < 0.05 for all) and did not demonstrate prolapse in any compartments. The SWE results for the whole group were 35.2 kPa in the rhabdosphincter measuring point, 40.2 kPa in the sub‐urethra point, and 20.6 kPa in the trigone point. Comparing the premenopause and postmenopause groups, we found lower measurements in the rhabdosphincter area and equivocal measurements for the suburethral zone. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups

Conclusions

The elastic properties of the different bladder components and the urethra change with age and menopause. Using elastic properties of the tissues, we can further explore both stress urinary incontinence and overactive bladder.
Factor structure of borderline personality disorder and response to Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving
Authors: Black Donald W. , Blum Nancee , Allen Jeff
Published: January 2022

Differential response to the Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS) program was compared in subgroups identified through latent class analysis (LCA). STEPPS is an evidence‐based group treatment program for patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). A reanalysis of data was conducted using data from a 20‐week randomized controlled trial and 1‐year follow‐up. Subjects (n = 164) with DSM‐IV BPD were assessed for comorbid Axis I and II disorders and selected clinical variables. Severity was assessed using the Zanarini Rating Scale for BPD (ZAN‐BPD) and the Borderline Evaluation of Severity Over Time (BEST). Three‐ and four‐class models were identified with the four‐class model having the better fit. The latter included a high severity (HS) class (26%), an affective instability/substance abuse (AISA) class (16%), an empty/dissociation/identity disturbance (EDID) class (27%), and a low severity (LS) class (30%). High impulsiveness predicted membership in the HS class. Improvement was determined using a linear mixed‐effects model. Those most likely to benefit were those in the HS group characterized by high symptom severity, Axis I and II comorbidity, problem relationships, abandonment fears, and intense anger. This work should help further efforts to match patients with treatments based on sociodemographic, diagnostic, and other illness characteristics.
A case of recurrent pneumothoraces in a newborn
Authors: George Ashish , Ortenberg Robin , Pinto Swaroop
Published: January 2022

Pneumothoraces are not an uncommon finding in the newborn period. Recurrent pneumothoraces can be associated with complications of prematurity or use of ventilators but can be seen in rapidly progressive cystic lung disease. We report a case of recurrent pneumothoraces in an infant with the rapidly progressive cystic disease in the setting of an absent right pulmonary artery. The patient ultimately underwent pneumonectomy for definitive management of the recurrent unilateral pneumothoraces.
Investigating the Secondary Electron Emission of Nanomaterials Induced by a High‐Resolution Proton Beam
Authors: Cholewa Marian , Grędysa Anna , Pozaruk Andrii , Osipowicz Thomas , van Kan Jeroen A. , Dou Yan X. , Yan Peiyan , Bettiol Andrew A. , Maximov Ivan , Sobanska Maria , Zytkiewicz Zbigniew R. , Gogneau Noelle , Tchernycheva Maria , Lee Keundong , Song Minho S. , Yi Gyu‐Chul , Boutachkov Plamen
Published: January 2022

Herein, the secondary electron emission (SEE) from 1D nanomaterials in the form of nanorods is investigated. The small beam of a 1.5 MeV +H2 hydrogen with a sub 70 nm in diameter allows studying the SEE with a very high resolution. A wide range of nanomaterials from various laboratories are studied, including thin ZnO and ZnO/GaN nanostructures grown on 1 μm thick Si3N4 membranes and thick InP, GaN and GaN/AlN nanorod structures grown on bulk Si substrates. By virtue of the small size of the exciting nanobeams, high‐resolution maps could be created presenting an SEE yield from various parts of the structures. This allows us to show that the top parts of nanorods in ZnO, ZnO/GaN, GaN, InP, and GaN/AlN nanostructures emit secondary electrons much more efficiently than the valley areas between nanorods. These results indicate that by a proper design and growth of 1D nanostructures, SEE properties could be improved over those of the traditionally used Au and CsI thin films. This work has been undertaken to find materials with the highest achievable SEE emission, which is a figure of merit for the detection efficiency relevant for the development and application of novel radiation detectors.
Dielectric Behavior and Spontaneous Polarization as a Consequence of Berry Quantum Phase Effect: The case of La2NiMnO6 Double Perovskite—A New Approach to Polarization
Authors: Najar Feroz A. , Samad Rubiya , Sultan Khalid , Ahmad Hilal , Qaudir Irshad , Nisa Shams Un , Batool Bushra , Fatima Shanas
Published: January 2022

Transition metal oxides have been the materials of interest in modern‐day science and technology. Among these materials, double perovskites have been studied very often. To explore such types of oxides and to provide a better understanding especially about lanthanum manganates, herein, the system of La2NiMnO6 is investigated, which exists in two phases, viz., monoclinic and rhombohedral via density functional theory. So far, the monoclinic phase which usually exists at low temperatures has been probed a lot; however, very little information is available about the rhombohedral phase and thus needs to be investigated. Herein, the rhombohedral phase of the material is simulated and various properties like band structure, electronic distribution of states, and absorption within the material are investigated. The study of the complex dielectric nature of the material and its refractive index with frequency variations of the incident field is also presented. The self‐interactions have been taken care‐off taking the Hubbard parameter into account. The spontaneous polarization for the first time as a berry phase using a quantum mechanical approach has also been calculated. The high dielectric constant at visible frequencies ensures the potential use of this material in the case of storage devices.
Humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange is a means of oxygenation during rigid bronchoscopy: A case series
Authors: Kornafeld Anna , Fernandez‐Bussy Sebastian , Abia‐Trujillo David , Garcia Juan C. , Chadha Ryan M.
Published: January 2022

Humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange (HRIVE) is an option for maintenance of oxygenation. This technique allows for oxygenation while the patient is apnoeic due to continuous positive airway pressure and gas exchange through flow‐dependent dead space flushing. There is no study about the usage of HRIVE during rigid bronchoscopy. This retrospective study looked at rigid bronchoscopy cases utilizing HRIVE. Data points assessing adequacy of oxygenation and ventilation were recorded at time points: oxygen saturation (SpO2), partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2). Our nine cases had an average baseline SpO2 of 99.26%, 95.56% at 10 min into HRIVE and 95.27% at the end of HRIVE. The average baseline PaO2 was 309.01 mmHg, 124.99 mmHg at 10 min into HRIVE and 128.17 mmHg at the end of HRIVE. The average baseline PaCO2 was 43.26 mmHg, 68.76 mmHg at 10 min into HRIVE and 75.52 mmHg at the end of HRIVE. The average pre‐HRIVE end‐tidal CO2 (ETCO2) was 38.56 mmHg and the average post‐HRIVE ETCO2 was 61.22 mmHg. The average baseline pH was 7.36, 7.22 at 10 min into HRIVE and 7.19 at the end of HRIVE. In this small cohort study, HRIVE was able to maintain adequate oxygenation via the rigid bronchoscope in a select group of patients. Hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis did result after 10 min, which may predispose certain patient populations to complications. HRIVE potentially offers an additional option of oxygenation via the rigid bronchoscope.
Ex situ treatment and residual management of PFAS contaminated environmental media
Authors: Grieco Scott A. , Koenigsberg Stephen , Claffey Jim , Cooper Ivan , Dewitt AnnieLu , Naidu Ravi , Wymore Ryan
Published: January 2022

This paper focuses on both commercially available and developing ex situ technologies for treating per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). To date, conventional treatment technologies for PFAS removal from aqueous matrices involves the use of granular activated carbon, anion ion exchange resins, or reverse osmosis. Currently, the environmental industry is being flooded with new ex situ technologies designed to treat PFAS in both liquid and solid matrices. For more complex media, such as municipal wastewater and landfill leachate, significant pretreatment is generally required. Ex situ treatment/disposal methods for PFAS‐contaminated solid wastes are generally limited to landfill disposal and incineration. The paper begins with a regulatory overview applicable to ex situ PFAS treatment technologies and then summarizes commercially available and developing ex situ technologies for drinking water and groundwater, wastewater, landfill leachate, and solid wastes. New technologies that have been developed but are less widely applied are also discussed. In addition, the paper provides a summary of the decision‐making process for managing PFAS‐containing wastes.
Reciprocal Reading for struggling readers: An exemplar of evidence implementation in schools
Authors: Cockerill Maria , O'Keeffe Joanne , Thurston Allen , Taylor Andy
Published: January 2022

There continue to be challenges of transfer from research evidence to practice in education. This paper reports on the implementation of a well‐evidenced Reciprocal Reading approach in 35 schools across a high poverty region in England, working cooperatively at transition between primary and secondary. The purpose of the research reported here was not to test children to establish whether Reciprocal Reading improves student outcomes, as randomised controlled trial evidence from studies in England has already established the positive impact of this approach in primary and secondary schools. Instead, a process evaluation was undertaken using naturally occurring data and staff survey data, to understand whether it is possible to implement this approach across a region with high fidelity. The theory of change exemplified in previous randomised controlled trial evaluations was used to interrogate the data in respect of teacher behaviours and attitudes, and student behaviours as reported by school staff during implementation. Findings suggest high levels of adherence to programme design and resources by schools was present across the sample during implementation, together with staff competence and positive relational factors during programme delivery. These findings are in line with health‐based research where high fidelity of implementation is used as an indicator of transfer to practice.
Constrained fast finite‐time exact tracking for disturbed nonlinear systems
Authors: Chen Xiang , Zheng Shiqi , Ahn Choon Ki , Xie Yuanlong , Shi Peng
Published: January 2022

This article investigates the fast finite‐time exact tracking problem for nonlinear systems with time‐varying disturbances. A new composite controller with a finite‐time disturbance observer is proposed to achieve fast finite‐time exact tracking. Furthermore, a new time‐varying barrier power integrator technique is developed to design the controller. This can ensure not only asymmetric/symmetric time‐varying full‐state constraints but also singular‐free continuous control effort. To reduce the complexity of computation, fuzzy logic systems are adopted to approximate complex nonlinearities. Finally, an example of single‐link robot systems subject to time‐varying disturbances is presented to show the validity of the proposed method.
Slash pine growth and nitrogen leaching potential following fertilization and pinestraw removal
Authors: Osiecka Anna , Minogue Patrick J. , Lauer Dwight K.
Published: January 2022

Commercial pine plantations in the southern United States are commonly fertilized to enhance growth and to replenish nutrients following timber harvests or repetitive raking of pinestraw, an important secondary product. We examined the effects of pinestraw removal and fertilization on pine growth and N leaching potential in an 8‐yr‐old slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) plantation in North Florida. Raking treatments (raked or nonraked) were applied annually in February 2014–2017. Fertilization treatments (controlled‐release polymer‐coated urea at 0, 28, 56, 140, or urea at 56 kg N ha–1 yr–1) were applied annually in June 2014–2016. Pinestraw removal had no effect on stand growth. Fertilization did not enhance pine growth and increased mortality at the highest application rate. All fertilized treatments raised ammonium N (NH4–N) and nitrate–nitrite N (NOx–N) concentrations in soil solution at 30‐cm depth, indicating increased leaching potential. The period of elevated NH4–N concentrations occurred from 1 to 4 wk after fertilization, and the period of elevated NOx–N concentrations occurred from 1 to 13 or 26 wk following fertilization, with NOx–N concentration peaks (up to 98 mg L–1) at 4 or 8 wk. Soil solution NH4–N and NOx–N concentrations increased with increasing N application rate and with consecutive fertilizations. Polymer‐coated urea had no advantage over urea in terms of pine growth but resulted in slightly lower soil solution NOx–N concentrations in raked plots.
A nonparametric Bayesian method for dose finding in drug combinations cancer trials
Authors: Razaee Zahra S. , Cook‐Wiens Galen , Tighiouart Mourad
Published: January 2022

We propose an adaptive design for early‐phase drug‐combination cancer trials with the goal of estimating the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). A nonparametric Bayesian model, using beta priors truncated to the set of partially ordered dose combinations, is used to describe the probability of dose limiting toxicity (DLT). Dose allocation between successive cohorts of patients is estimated using a modified continual reassessment scheme. The updated probabilities of DLT are calculated with a Gibbs sampler that employs a weighting mechanism to calibrate the influence of data vs the prior. At the end of the trial, we recommend one or more dose combinations as the MTD based on our proposed algorithm. We apply our method to a Phase I clinical trial of CB‐839 and Gemcitabine that motivated this nonparametric design. The design operating characteristics indicate that our method is comparable with existing methods.
Two‐step hypothesis testing to detect gene‐environment interactions in a genome‐wide scan with a survival endpoint
Authors: Kawaguchi Eric S. , Li Gang , Lewinger Juan Pablo , Gauderman W. James
Published: January 2022

Defined by their genetic profile, individuals may exhibit differential clinical outcomes due to an environmental exposure. Identifying subgroups based on specific exposure‐modifying genes can lead to targeted interventions and focused studies. Genome‐wide interaction scans (GWIS) can be performed to identify such genes, but these scans typically suffer from low power due to the large multiple testing burden. We provide a novel framework for powerful two‐step hypothesis tests for GWIS with a time‐to‐event endpoint under the Cox proportional hazards model. In the Cox regression setting, we develop an approach that prioritizes genes for Step‐2 testing based on a carefully constructed Step‐1 screening procedure. Simulation results demonstrate this two‐step approach can lead to substantially higher power for identifying gene‐environment () interactions compared to the standard GWIS while preserving the family wise error rate over a range of scenarios. In a taxane‐anthracycline chemotherapy study for breast cancer patients, the two‐step approach identifies several gene expression by treatment interactions that would not be detected using the standard GWIS.
Micro‐structural Analysis and Photocatalytic Properties of Green Synthesized t‐ZrO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Sikdar Suranjan , Banu Afroja , Ali Salim , Barman Subhodeep , Kalar Pankaj Lal , Das Rahul
Published: January 2022

Tetragonal zirconia (t‐ZrO2) nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully synthesized by a green method using β‐cyclodextrin as stabilizer. The structural characterization of the prepared nanoparticles was done by X‐ray diffraction (XRD).The tetragonal crystalline structure of ZrO2 NPs was confirmed by XRD analysis. We employed the Rietveld method to refine the XRD data and the refinement result leads to specify the tetragonal phase of ZrO2 NPs with space group P 42/n m c. The FTIR spectrum gives the information about the presence of Zr−O bonding at 501 cm−1. Particle size and morphological properties were demonstrated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and elemental compositions were analysed using EDAX spectrum. The band gap energy was estimated using optical absorption spectroscopy and the value was found to be 3.99 eV. The UV (310 nm) and visible (401, 420 and 560 nm) emissions were observed from PL spectrum. Brunauer‐Emmet‐Teller (BET) surface analysis was used for determining the surface area and average pore size of ZrO2 NPs.The photocatalytic degradation of the prepared ZrO2 NPs for organic dyes had been studied under visible light irradiation. Results showed that 68 % degradation was achieved within 135 min for Methylene Blue (MB) dye but other dyes almost remains unchanged during the same reaction times.
Energized Composites for Electric Vehicles: A Dual Function Energy‐Storing Supercapacitor‐Based Carbon Fiber Composite for the Body Panels
Authors: Pandey Deepak , Sambath Kumar Kowsik , Henderson Leaford Nathan , Suarez Gustavo , Vega Patrick , Salvador Hilda Reyes , Roberson Luke , Thomas Jayan
Published: January 2022

The current electric vehicles (EVs) face many challenges like limited charge capacity, low miles/charge, and long charging times. Herein, these issues are addressed by developing a dual‐function supercapacitor‐based energy‐storing carbon fiber reinforced polymer (e‐CFRP) that can store electrical energy and function as the structural component for the EV's body shell. This is achieved by developing a unique design, vertically aligned graphene sheets attached to carbon fiber electrodes on which different metal oxides are deposited to obtain high‐energy density electrodes. A high‐strength multilayer e‐CFRP assembly is fabricated using an alternate layer patterning configuration of epoxy and polyacrylamide gel electrolyte. The e‐CFRP so developed delivers a high areal energy density of 0.31 mWh cm–2 at 0.3 mm thickness and a high tensile strength of 518 MPa, bending strength of 477 MPa, and impact strength of 2666 J m–1. To show its application in EVs, a toy car's body panel is fabricated with e‐CFRP and the toy car is able to operate using the energy stored in its frame. Moreover, when integrated with a solar cell, this composite powers an Internet of Things device, showing its feasibility in communication satellites.
Plasma functionalized MoSe2 for efficient nonenzymatic sensing of hydrogen peroxide in ultra‐wide pH range
Authors: Luo Yang , Wu Donghai , Li Zehui , Li Xiao‐Yan , Wu Yinghong , Feng Shien‐Ping , Menon Carlo , Chen Houyang , Chu Paul K.
Published: January 2022

Enzymatic sensors have inherent problems such as the low stability and limited pH range in industrial and biomedical applications and therefore, more efficient nonenzymatic sensors are highly desirable. Herein, plasma‐functionalized defective MoSe2 is prepared and studied as a highly efficient catalyst for electrochemical sensing of H2O2. Experiments and theoretical computations show that the plasma‐induced Se multi‐vacancies and nitrogen dopants generate new active sites, expose more edge active surfaces, narrow the bandgap, and strengthen binding with the ·OH intermediate, which imparts new fundamental knowledge about the roles of defects in catalysis. The defective MoSe2‐catalyzed sensor delivers competitive performance in hydrogen peroxide detection such as a low detection limit of 12.6 nmol/L, wide operational pH range of 1−13, good long‐term stability, and high selectivity. The portable sensor produced by screen printing confirms the excellent commercial potential and in addition, the results not only reveal a novel concept to design and fabricate high‐performance sensors for H2O2 but also provide insights into the effectiveness of surface modification of diverse catalytic materials.
Palaeobiogeography of the family Nisusiidae (Cambrian rhynchonelliform brachiopods) using the ‘area‐transition count’ method and systematic revision of Korean species
Authors: Oh Yeongju , Lee Dong‐Chan , Lee Sangmin , Lee Seung‐Bae , Hong Paul S. , Hong Jongsun
Published: January 2022

Nisusiidae is a rhynchonelliform brachiopod family that was widely distributed in low‐latitude regions during the middle Cambrian (Stage 3 of Series 2 to the Drumian Stage of the Miaolingian Series). Cladistic analysis of 24 nisusiid species including two species from South Korea (Nisusia paucicostellata and Nisusiidae gen. et sp. indet.) demonstrates that the nisusiids consist of two sister clades (Clade 1 and 2) whose common ancestor was derived from a paraphyletic ‘basal’ group. Non‐spinose taxa are all included in Clade 1, while spinose Nisusia species are found throughout the three groups including Clade 1, indicating paraphyly of Nisusia. The optimized ancestral area(s) are assigned to internal nodes of the taxon area cladogram using both the Fitch algorithm and the DIVALIKE+J model of BioGeoBEARS, and then the relationship between cladogenetic area transition types and palaeogeographical areas is examined using the ‘area‐transition count’ method. Of 10 possible cladogenetic area transitions, which are combinations of range contraction (C), expansion (E), switch (S) and no range change (N), six (CC, CE, CN, EN, NN and NS) are observed in the two optimization results. It is proposed that the nisusiids originated in Laurentia as a strongly spinose form and dispersed into high‐latitude peri‐Gondwana during Stage 3 and then strongly diversified into other areas during Stage 4, and that non‐spinose forms evolved later, mainly in Laurentia. The nisusiid palaeobiogeographical pattern is interpreted to reflect distributional range changes that were probably caused by palaeo‐oceanic currents with the aid of island arcs as stepping stones, and pumice, produced by volcanic activity, as the means of dispersal.
Endosomal recycling and dopamine neurotransmission: Exploring the links between the retromer and Parkinson's disease
Authors: Gock Nathan , Follett Jordan , Rintoul Gordon L , Beischlag Timothy V , Lee Frank J.S.
Published: January 2022

The retromer complex is an evolutionarily conserved protein complex involved in the endosomal recycling of various cargo proteins. It is ubiquitously expressed in all tissue and is found in both invertebrate as well as mammalian nervous systems, where it recycles various synaptic membrane proteins including the dopamine transporter and dopamine D1 receptor, two proteins implicated in dopamine homeostasis and neurotransmission. The involvement of the retromer complex in dopamine neurobiology is further underscored by its links to Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder of the dopamine system. In this article, the existing literature linking the retromer complex to synaptic function and dopamine homeostasis is reviewed. Additional possible links are highlighted by exploring the retromer and other Parkinson's disease‐associated proteins and possible relationships to synaptic function and dopamine transmission.