bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moisture and energy content of fire-burnt trees for bioenergy production: A case study of four tree species from northwestern Ontario
Authors: Hosegood Steven , Leitch Mathew , Shahi Chander , Pulkki Reino
Published: February 2014

With the current energy reform, the Ontario government has taken an initiative to phase out coal-fired generatingstations by 2014, and replace coal with biomass as feedstock at the Atikokan Generating Station. This switch to greenenergy production has opened a new avenue of income for mills and biomass-harvesting companies. However, as theneed for biomass increases, harvesting residues may no longer satisfy the needs of cogeneration facilities and new sourcesmay be sought. A potential source of woody biomass in Ontario is from forest fires. On average, an area of 35 460 ha or3 868 034 m3 of wood is devastated by wildfire every year in the Area of the Undertaking in Ontario and has the potentialto be salvaged. However, the fuel quality and feasibility of salvaging wildfire-burnt areas for bioenergy production innorthern Ontario has not been investigated so far. In this study, five different-aged fires in the MNR Thunder Bay District—12, 18, 24, 37, and 52 months old—were sampled for moisture content and calorific value of the wood. This samplingwas done across four of the most prolific tree species grown in northwestern Ontario—white birch, trembling aspen,balsam fir, and black spruce. The average moisture content (dry weight basis) of the five fires ranged from 27.1% to 34.9%and the average calorific value from 19.0 MJ/kg to 21.1 MJ/kg. Significant differences in moisture content were foundbetween the species and the ages of fire. Hardwood species had significantly higher moisture content compared to softwoods.The results display that wildfire-burnt areas have the potential to supply good-quality fuel for bioenergy productionin northwestern Ontario.

Key words: biomass, wildfire-burnt areas, bioenergy production, moisture content, calorific value, northern Ontario
What potential customers are telling us: Organizational buyer attitudes towards forest biomass
Authors: Nadeau John , Griese Kate
Published: February 2014

This paper reports on a study of organizational buyer attitudes towards forest biomass energy for use in heating systems.This topic warrants discussion as global energy needs grow and the Canadian forestry sector experiences economic challenges.In particular, heating systems are an appropriate introductory application for solid forest biomass because it representsan efficient and sustainable fuel use. The attitudes of organizational buyers are assessed and compared against theperceived level of importance for attitudinal items and the views held toward fossil fuels. The results demonstrate that forestbiomass is viewed favourably on environmental aspects and on some other attitudinal items of high importance. Managerialsuggestions are forwarded to guide the burgeoning sector in its attempt to build awareness and strengthen its perceivedimage among organizational buyers.

Key words: biomass, biomass fuel, attitudes of organizational buyers, biomass as an alternative heat and energy source
Effects of height-growth selection on wood density in black spruce in New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Weng Y H , Tosh K J , Fullarton M S
Published: February 2014

Height growth was the main selection criterion for the early-stage black spruce (Picea mariana [Mill.] BSP) breeding programmein New Brunswick, which has produced significant increases in volume growth. In this study we investigate howthe height-growth selection influences growth traits and wood density. Two genetic tests, a realized gain test of large plotsand a progeny test of small plots, were used for this purpose. Wood density was measured using the Resistograph methodon the standing trees. Growth and wood density of the improved seedlots were compared with those of an unimprovedstand checklot. In the progeny test, height-growth selection not only made the improved seedlots taller but also produceda proportional increase in DBH growth relative to the checklot. In the realized gain test, height-growth selection didincrease height, but did not produce a corresponding increase in DBH growth. Effects of height-growth selection on wooddensity varied with tests: the improved seedlot produced a greater although statistically non-significant decline in wooddensity in the progeny test; this reduction was at a much lesser extent or even non-existent in the realized gain test. Overall,results suggest that the improved growth from early stage improvement activities might not substantially and negativelyaffect wood density in plantation forestry and the predicted reduction in wood density in genetic tests of small plotsmight be inflated.

Key words: Resistograph, realized gain test, progeny test, tree improvement
Human Adult White Matter Progenitor Cells Are Multipotent Neuroprogenitors Similar to Adult Hippocampal Progenitors
Authors: Lojewski Xenia , Hermann Andreas , Wegner Florian , Araúzo-Bravo Marcos J. , Hallmeyer-Elgner Susanne , Kirsch Matthias , Schwarz Johannes , Schöler Hans R. , Storch Alexander
Published: February 2014

Adult neural progenitor cells (aNPC) are a potential autologous cell source for cell replacement in neurologic diseases or for cell-based gene therapy of neurometabolic diseases. Easy accessibility, long-term expandability, and detailed characterization of neural progenitor cell (NPC) properties are important requisites for their future translational/clinical applications. aNPC can be isolated from different regions of the adult human brain, including the accessible subcortical white matter (aNPCWM), but systematic studies comparing long-term expanded aNPCWM with aNPC from neurogenic brain regions are not available. Freshly isolated cells from subcortical white matter and hippocampus expressed oligodendrocyte progenitor cell markers such as A2B5, neuron-glial antigen 2 (NG2), and oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2 (OLIG2) in ∼20% of cells but no neural stem cell (NSC) markers such as CD133 (Prominin1), Nestin, SOX2, or PAX6. The epidermal growth factor receptor protein was expressed in 18% of aNPCWM and 7% of hippocampal aNPC (aNPCHIP), but only a small fraction of cells, 1 of 694 cells from white matter and 1 of 1,331 hippocampal cells, was able to generate neurospheres. Studies comparing subcortical aNPCWM with their hippocampal counterparts showed that both NPC types expressed mainly markers of glial origin such as NG2, A2B5, and OLIG2, and the NSC/NPC marker Nestin, but no pericyte markers. Both NPC types were able to produce neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes in amounts comparable to fetal NSC. Whole transcriptome analyses confirmed the strong similarity of aNPCWM to aNPCHIP. Our data show that aNPCWM are multipotent NPC with long-term expandability similar to NPC from hippocampus, making them a more easily accessible source for possible autologous NPC-based treatment strategies.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells With Modification of Junctional Adhesion Molecule A Induce Hair Formation
Authors: Wu Minjuan , Guo Xiaocan , Yang Ling , Wang Yue , Tang Ying , Yang Yongji , Liu Houqi
Published: February 2014

The junctional adhesion molecule A (JAM-A) has been shown to serve a crucial role in the proliferation, differentiation, and tube-like formation of epithelial cells during angiogenesis. The role of JAM-A in hair follicle (HF) regeneration has not yet been reported. In this study, we used human JAM-A-modified human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to repair HF abnormalities in BALB/c nu/nu mice. The JAM-A gene and JAM-A short hairpin RNA were transfected into cultured human MSCs to generate the JAM-A overexpression MSCs (JAM-Aov MSCs) and JAM-A knockdown MSCs (JAM-Akd MSCs), respectively. These cells were injected intradermally into the skin of nude mice during the first telogen phase of the HF that occurs 21 days postnatally. We found that JAM-Aov MSCs migrated into the HF sheath and remodeled HF structure effectively. The HF abnormalities such as HF curve and HF zigzag were remodeled, and hair formation was improved 7 days following injection in both the JAM-Aov MSC and MSC groups, compared with the JAM-Akd MSC group or negative control group. Furthermore, the JAM-Aov MSC group showed enhanced hair formation in contrast to the MSC group, and the number of curved and zigzagged HFs was reduced by 80% (p < .05). These results indicated that JAM-Aov MSCs improved hair formation in nude mice through HF structure remodeling.
La psychologie occidentale au contact de l’Inde : les enjeux d’une appropriation précipitée
Authors: Bédard Alexandre
Published: February 2014

À l’heure actuelle, on observe en Occident la présence grandissante de professionnels en santé mentale et de chercheurs qui ont recours à des éléments théoriques et à des techniques issus des spiritualités indiennes comme, par exemple, le yoga et la méditation de la pleine conscience (ou mindfulness meditation). Bien que ces techniques soient souvent reçues favorablement par les Occidentaux, au point de devenir parfois très populaires, il s’avère pour l’instant difficile de cerner une position théorique claire sur ces sujets de la part de la psychologie et de bien identifier les sources sur lesquelles celle-ci s’appuierait. Le présent article vise à mieux comprendre la relation qui cherche à s’établir entre la psychologie occidentale et les spiritualités de l’Inde, non seulement à travers le jeu d’appropriations qui se déroule actuellement sous nos yeux, mais également à travers les contacts qui ont eu lieu entre ces deux traditions depuis la fin du xixe siècle.
As-built modeling of piping system from terrestrial laser-scanned point clouds using normal-based region growing
Authors: Kawashima Kazuaki , Kanai Satoshi , Date Hiroaki
Published: February 2014

Recently, renovations of plant equipment have been more frequent because of the shortened lifespans of the products, and as-built models from large-scale laser-scamied data is expected to streamline rebuilding processes. However, the laser-scanned data of an existing plant has an enormous amount ofpoints, captures inmcate objects, and includes a high noise level, so the manual reconstmction of a 3D model is very time-consuming and costly. Among plant equipment, piping systems account for the greatest proportion. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to propose an algorithm which could automatically recognize a piping system from the terrestrial laser- scanned data plant equipment. The straight pomon pipes, connecting parts, and connection relationship ofthe piping system can be recognized in this algorithm. Normal-based region growing and cylinder surface fitting can extract all possible locations ofpipes, including straight pipes, elbows, and junctions. Tracing the axes of a piping system enables the recognition of the positions of these elements and their connection relationship. Using only point clouds, the recognition algorithm can be performed in a fUlly automatic way. The algorithm was applied to large-scale scamied data of an oil rig and a chemical plant. Recognition rates of about 86%, 88%, and 71% were achieved straight pipes, elbows, andjunctions, respectively.
Novel computational approaches characterizing knee physiotherapy
Authors: Kim Wangdo , Veloso António P. , Araújo Duarte , Kohles Sean S.
Published: February 2014

A knee joint's longevity depends on the proper integration of structural components in an axial alignment. If just one of the components is abnormally off-axis, the biomechanical system fails, resulting in arthritis. The complexity of various failures in the knee joint has led orthopedic surgeons to select total knee replacement as a primary treatment. In many cases, this means sacrificing much of an otherwise normal joint. Here, we review novel computational approaches to describe knee physiotherapy by introducing a new dimension of foot loading to the knee axis alignment producing an improved functional status of the patient. New physiotherapeutic applications are then possible by aligning foot loading with the functional axis of the knee joint during the treatment of patients with osteoarthritis.
Vestibular Dysfunction in Patients With Chronic Pain or Underlying Neurologic Disorders
Authors: Gilbert John W. , Vogt Manuel , Windsor Robert E. , Mick Gregory E. , Richardson Gay B. , Storey Benjamin B. , Herder Stephanie L. , Ledford Susan , Abrams Dee A. , Theobald Mary Katherine , Cunningham Dana , Kelly Louise , Herring Kimberly V. , Maddox Michael L.
Published: February 2014

Context:Individuals with vestibular dysfunction are at increased risk for falling. In addition, vestibular dysfunction is associated with chronic pain, which could present a serious public health concern as approximately 43% of US adults have chronic pain.

Objective:To assess the incidence of vestibular dysfunction in patients receiving medication for chronic, noncancer pain or other underlying neurologic disorders and to determine associated follow-up therapeutic and diagnostic recommendations.

Methods:The authors conducted a retrospective medical record review of consecutive patients who were treated in their private neuroscience practice with medications for chronic pain or underlying neurologic disorders in 2011. All patients underwent a series of tests using videonystagmography for the assessment of vestibular function. Test results and recommendations for therapy and additional testing were obtained.

Results:Medical records of 124 patients (78 women, 46 men) were reviewed. Vestibular deficits were detected in 83 patients (66.9%). Patient ages ranged from 29 through 72 years, with a mean age of 50.7 years for women and 52.5 years for men. Physician-recommended therapy and follow-up testing were as follows: 32 patients (38.6%), neurologic examination and possible magnetic resonance (MR) imaging or computed tomography (CT) of the brain; 26 patients (31.3%), vestibular rehabilitation therapy only; 22 patients (26.5%), vestibular and related balance-function rehabilitation therapy, further neurologic examination, and possible MR imaging or CT; 2 patients (2.4%), balance-function rehabilitation therapy and specialized internal auditory canal high-magnification MR imaging or CT to assess for acoustic neuroma; and 1 patient (1.2%), specialized internal auditory canal high-magnification MR imaging or CT to evaluate for possible intracanalicular acoustic neuroma.

Conclusion:Patients being treated with medications for chronic, noncancer pain or other underlying neurologic disorders may have a higher-than-average incidence of vestibular dysfunction. Baseline assessment and monitoring of the vestibular apparatus may be indicated for these patients.
The “Doctor of Osteopathy”: Expanding the Scope of Practice
Authors: Gevitz Norman
Published: February 2014

This article—the third in a 6-part series—examines the status of the DO degree in the first 3 decades of the 20th century. This time was an era when osteopathic practitioners established other colleges, developed state and national organizations, upgraded the length and breadth of curricula, and sought to secure licensure laws commensurate with their expanded education. During this period, osteopathic practitioners debated whether the DO degree was the most appropriate degree for their colleges to award or whether the MD degree alone or in conjunction with the DO degree better signified to lawmakers and the public their expanded academic training. At the end of this period it appeared likely that the DO degree would continue to be the sole designation by which osteopathic physicians would identify themselves in continuing their fight to obtain further legal rights and privileges.
Physicians' Role in Improving Adolescent Vaccination Rates
Authors: Craig Timothy J.
Published: February 2014

Over the course of human history, innumerable advances have been made to extend the length and quality of life. It would be difficult to debate the fact that vaccines have saved more lives than any other medical intervention in the past century. Sanitation, especially clean water, may have saved more lives than any other intervention, but sanitation has been mainly in the hands of engineers. Physicians and other health care practitioners, with the help of educators, are responsible for saving millions of lives by vaccinating patients, perhaps as many as 6 million per year.1
Theoretical analysis of light-emission characteristics in blue saw-like InGaN/GaN light-emitting diodes with several well widths
Authors: Park Seoung-Hwan , Tae-Hoon Chung , Baek Jong Hyeob
Published: February 2014

The light-emission characteristics of saw-like InGaN/GaN quantum-well (QW) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with several well widths are investigated using the multiband effective mass theory. These results are compared with those of the conventional QW structures. In the case of the conventional QW structures, the spontaneous emission peak rapidly decreases with increasing well width. On the other hand, in the case of the saw-like QW structure, the well width dependence of the spontaneous emission peak is greatly reduced. That is, the spontaneous emission peak of the saw-like QW structure with the well width of 3 nm is shown to be comparable to that of the saw-like QW structure with the well width of 2.5 nm. Also, the saw-like QW structures show much larger spontaneous emission peaks than the conventional QW structures, irrespective of the well width. We expect that saw-like QW structures will be desirable as high-efficiency blue InGaN/GaN LEDs.
Statistical analysis of relationship between negative-bias temperature instability and random telegraph noise in small p-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors
Authors: Tega Naoki , Miki Hiroshi , Mine Toshiyuki , Ohmori Kenji , Yamada Keisaku
Published: February 2014

It is demonstrated from a statistical perspective that the generation of random telegraph noise (RTN) changes before and after the application of negative-bias temperature instability (NBTI) stress. The NBTI stress generates a large number of permanent interface traps and, at the same time, a large number of RTN traps causing temporary RTN and one-time RTN. The interface trap and the RTN trap show different features in the recovery process. That is, a re-passivation of interface states is the minor cause of the recovery after the NBTI stress, and in contrast, rapid disappearance of the temporary RTN and the one-time RTN is the main cause of the recovery. The RTN traps are less likely to become permanent. This two-type trap, namely, the interface trap and RTN trap, model simply explains NBTI degradation and recovery in scaled p-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors.
Study on two kinds of novel 220 GHz folded-waveguide traveling-wave tube
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Wei Yanyu , Guo Guo , Yue Lingna , Wang Yuanyuan , Shi Xianbao , Tang Xianfeng , Gong Yubin , Wang Wenxiang , Li Dazhi
Published: February 2014

Two kinds of novel 220 GHz folded-waveguide (FWG) slow-wave structure (SWS) with different electron-beam tunnels are presented for producing a high power and considerable bandwidth. These structures, which have the potential to have a better performance than the conventional FWG SWS, are suitable for circle-beam electron guns and sheet-beam electron guns, respectively. In this study, the electromagnetic characteristics and nonlinear interaction between the electron beam and the electromagnetic field of the two kinds of novel FWG are investigated on the basis of simulation results. The influence of the beam tunnel with respect to its transverse shape and size on the circuit performance is investigated in detail. With different beam tunnels, the two novel FWGs exhibit similar radio-frequency characteristics and signal gain. Particle-in-cell simulation results reveal that the novel tubes exhibit a gain greater than 32 dB and a bandwidth of 10% with a 16.5 kV and 150 mA electron beam and a 90 mW peak input power. Compared with the conventional FWG SWS, the novel FWGs have 32% higher output power under optimized conditions.
Crystal orientation dependency of ferroelectric property in rhombohedral Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 films
Authors: Ehara Yoshitaka , Utsugi Satoru , Oikawa Takahiro , Yamada Tomoaki , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: February 2014

Ferroelectric properties were investigated for (100), (110), and (111)-single-oriented rhombohedral Pb(Zr0.65Ti0.35)O3 films. Saturation polarization, P
sat, was changed by the simple tilting angle of the polar axis from the film surface normal. On the other hand, (100)- and

-oriented films prepared on (100) Si substrates showed similar P
sat values due to the coexistence of

orientation. The coercive field, E
c, of rhombohedral Pb(Zr0.65Ti0.35)O3 films was lower than that of tetragonal Pb(Zr0.4Ti0.6)O3 films. (100)-oriented rhombohedral films with SrRuO3 electrodes did not show noticeable degradation in polarization up to 1010 switching cycles. These results show that (100)-oriented rhombohedral Pb(Zr
x
Ti1−

x
)O3 film is available to realize the low voltage operated ferroelectric random access memory instead of the present tetragonal Pb(Zr
x
Ti1−

x
)O3 films.
Suppressing Al memory effect on CVD growth of 4H-SiC epilayers by adding hydrogen chloride gas
Authors: Ji Shi-yang , Kojima Kazutoshi , Ishida Yuuki , Saito Shingo , Yoshida Sadafumi , Tsuchida Hidekazu , Okumura Hajime
Published: February 2014

The Al memory effect during the growth of Al-doped 4H-SiC by the hot-wall chemical vapor phase epitaxy method was investigated. To suppress unintentional incorporation of Al impurities during succeeding growth, a technique was developed by employing HCl-assisted “site-competition” growth. Three methods of introducing HCl, namely, HCl flushing before growth, HCl addition during growth, and the combination of the two preceding methods, have been performed and the Al suppression effects corresponding to the input C/Si ratio were studied separately. It is found that lowering the C/Si ratio reduces Al incorporation for all methods of introducing HCl and using the combination of HCl flushing and HCl addition is highly effective. Optimizing growth rate, temperature, and pressure can further improve Al suppression efficiency; thus, a highly abrupt change in Al distribution between Al-doped and undoped epilayers with Al concentration differences of more than five orders of magnitude was obtained, e.g., a steep change from 1020 to 1014 cm−3.
Age‐associated myeloid malignancies – the role of STAT3 and STAT5 in myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Fasouli Eirini Sofia , Katsantoni Eleni
Published: July 2024

In the last few decades, the increasing human life expectancy has led to the inflation of the elderly population and consequently the escalation of age‐related disorders. Biological aging has been associated with the accumulation of somatic mutations in the Hematopoietic Stem Cell (HSC) compartment, providing a fitness advantage to the HSCs leading to clonal hematopoiesis, that includes non‐malignant and malignant conditions (i.e. Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential, Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Acute Myeloid Leukemia). The Janus Kinase‐Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK–STAT) pathway is a key player in both normal and malignant hematopoiesis. STATs, particularly STAT3 and STAT5, are greatly implicated in normal hematopoiesis, immunity, inflammation, leukemia, and aging. Here, the pleiotropic functions of JAK–STAT pathway in age‐associated hematopoietic defects and of STAT3 and STAT5 in normal hematopoiesis, leukemia, and inflammaging are reviewed. Even though great progress has been made in deciphering the role of STATs, further research is required to provide a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of leukemogenesis, as well as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for improved management of age‐related disorders.
The mediating role of hostile attribution bias in social exclusion affecting aggressive behavior
Authors: Quan Fangying , Zhou Jiayu , Gou Yan , Gui Mengqiong , Wang Lu , Zhang Shuyue
Published: July 2024

Aggression is one of the public social issues affecting campus harmony and stability, and social exclusion is an important interpersonal contextual factor among many factors affecting aggression. However, studies examining the influence of social exclusion on aggression and its mediating mechanism are not systematic enough. Based on the general aggression model (GAM), we intend to explore the role of hostile attribution bias (HAB) in both trait and state levels of social exclusion, which leads to aggression through a combination of questionnaire and experimental methods. Study 1 surveyed 388 current high school students (Mage = 16.09, SD = 1.01) and found that HAB mediates the relationship between long‐term social exclusion (trait level) and aggression tendency. Study 2 experimented with 181 high school students (Mage = 16.95, SD = 1.13) to examine whether short‐term social exclusion (state level) after initiating the Cyberball paradigm could still influence aggressive behavior through the mediating role of HAB. Results found that the mediating role of HAB still holds. The findings of the study further enrich the GAM and have important implications for a more targeted approach to aggression prevention and intervention.
Near Room Temperature Solvothermal Growth of Ferroelectric CsPbBr3 Nanoplatelets with Ultralow Dark Current
Authors: Anilkumar Gokul M. , Bhakar Monika , Taneja Chetna , Hwang Sooyeon , Kumar G. V. Pavan , Sheet Goutam , Rahman Atikur
Published: July 2024

CsPbBr3 exhibits outstanding optoelectronic properties and thermal stability, making it a coveted material for detectors, light‐emitting diodes, and solar cells. Despite observations of ferroelectricity in CsPbBr3 quantum dots, synthesizing bulk ferroelectric CsPbBr3 crystals has remained elusive, hindering its potential in next‐generation optoelectronic devices like optical switches and ferroelectric photovoltaics. Here, a breakthrough is reported: a novel solvothermal technique enabling the growth of ferroelectric CsPbBr3 nanoplatelets with lateral dimensions in the tens of micrometers. This represents a significant step toward achieving large‐area ferroelectric CsPbBr3 crystals. Unlike traditional methods, this approach allows for growth and crystallization of CsPbBr3 in alcohol solutions by enhancing precursor solubility. This study confirms the ferroelectric nature of these nanoplatelets using second harmonic generation, electrical characterizations, and piezoresponse force microscopy. This work paves the way for utilizing ferroelectric CsPbBr3 in novel optoelectronic devices, significantly expanding the potential of this material and opening doors for further exploration in this exciting field.
Engineered Regenerative Isolated Peripheral Nerve Interface for Targeted Reinnervation
Authors: Kwon Jinju , Eom Seongsu , Kong Jeong Sik , Cho Dong‐Woo , Kim Dong Sung , Kim Junesun
Published: July 2024

A regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) offers a therapeutic solution for nerve injury through reconstruction of the target muscle. However, implanting a transected peripheral nerve into an autologous skeletal muscle graft in RPNI causes donor‐site morbidity, highlighting the need for tissue‐engineered skeletal muscle constructs. Here, an engineered regenerative isolated peripheral nerve interface (eRIPEN) is developed using 3D skeletal cell printing combined with direct electrospinning to create a nanofiber membrane envelop for host nerve implantation. In this in vivo study, after over 8 months of RPNI surgery, the eRIPEN exhibits a minimum Feret diameter of 15–20 µm with a cross‐sectional area of 100–500 µm2, representing the largest distribution of myofibers. Furthermore, neuromuscular junction formation and muscle contraction with a force of ≈28 N are observed. Notably, the decreased hypersensitivity to mechanical/thermal stimuli and an improved tibial functional index from −77 to −56 are found in the eRIPEN group. The present novel concept of eRIPEN paves the way for the utilization and application of tissue‐engineered constructs in RPNI, ultimately realizing neuroprosthesis control through synaptic connections.
Achieving Ultrasound‐Excited Emission with Organic Mechanoluminescent Materials
Authors: Chang Kai , Gu Juqing , Yuan Likai , Guo Jianfeng , Wu Xiangxi , Fan Yuanyuan , Liao Qiuyan , Ye Guigui , Li Qianqian , Li Zhen
Published: July 2024

Unlike traditional photoluminescence (PL), mechanoluminescence (ML) achieved under mechanical excitation demonstrates unique characteristics such as high penetrability, spatial resolution, and signal‐to‐background ratio (SBR) for bioimaging applications. However, bioimaging with organic mechanoluminescent materials remains challenging because of the shallow penetration depth of ML with short emission wavelengths and the absence of a suitable mechanical force to generate ML in vivo. To resolve these issues, the present paper reports the achievement of ultrasound (US)‐excited fluorescence and phosphorescence from purely organic luminogens for the first time with emission wavelengths extending to the red/NIR region, with the penetrability of the US‐excited emission being considerably higher than that of PL. Consequently, US‐excited subcutaneous phosphorescence imaging can be achieved using a mechanoluminescent‐luminogen‐based capsule device with a quantified intensity of 9.15 ± 1.32 × 104 p s−1 cm−2 sr−1 and an SBR of 24. Moreover, the US‐excited emission can be adequately tuned using the packing modes of the conjugated skeletons, dipole orientation of mechanoluminescent luminogens, and strength and direction of intermolecular interactions. Overall, this study innovatively expands the kind of excitation sources and the emission wavelengths of organic mechanoluminescent materials, paving the way for practical biological applications based on US‐excited emission.
Catalytic Asymmetric Cycloadditions of Cyclic Sulfamidate Imines: Straightforward Access to Chiral N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Park Jong‐Un , Hyun Kim Ju
Published: July 2024

Chiral N‐heterocyclic compounds are key structures in natural compounds and pharmaceuticals, and they serve as essential building blocks of functional materials. Catalytic asymmetric cycloaddition reactions represent one of the most efficient synthetic strategies for constructing optically active heterocycles. Cyclic sulfamidate imines have recently come to be extensively studied and widely utilized in both organocatalytic and transition metal‐catalyzed asymmetric cycloadditions, where they have been shown to provide various N‐fused‐heterocycles and spiro‐cycles exhibiting high efficiencies with excellent stereoselectivities. This review highlights recent advancements in catalytic asymmetric cycloadditions of cyclic sulfamidate imines for the stereoselective synthesis of biologically active sulfamidate‐containing heterocycles since 2012 while focusing on the diverse reactivities of cyclic sulfamidate imines and the mechanisms of chiral induction in catalysis.
PROTAC‐Mediated HDAC7 Protein Degradation Unveils Its Deacetylase‐Independent Proinflammatory Function in Macrophages
Authors: Kadier Kailibinuer , Niu Tian , Ding Baoli , Chen Boya , Qi Xuxin , Chen Danni , Cheng Xirui , Fang Yizheng , Zhou Jiahao , Zhao Wenyi , Liu Zeqi , Yuan Yi , Zhou Zhan , Dong Xiaowu , Yang Bo , He Qiaojun , Cao Ji , Jiang Li , Zhu Cheng‐Liang
Published: July 2024

Class IIa histone deacetylases (Class IIa HDACs) play critical roles in regulating essential cellular metabolism and inflammatory pathways. However, dissecting the specific roles of each class IIa HDAC isoform is hindered by the pan‐inhibitory effect of current inhibitors and a lack of tools to probe their functions beyond epigenetic regulation. In this study, a novel PROTAC‐based compound B4 is developed, which selectively targets and degrades HDAC7, resulting in the effective attenuation of a specific set of proinflammatory cytokines in both lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated macrophages and a mouse model. By employing B4 as a molecular probe, evidence is found for a previously explored role of HDAC7 that surpasses its deacetylase function, suggesting broader implications in inflammatory processes. Mechanistic investigations reveal the critical involvement of HDAC7 in the Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway by directly interacting with the TNF receptor‐associated factor 6 and TGFβ‐activated kinase 1 (TRAF6‐TAK1) complex, thereby initiating the activation of the downstream mitogen‐activated protein kinase/nuclear factor‐κB (MAPK/NF‐κB) signaling cascade and subsequent gene transcription. This study expands the insight into HDAC7's role within intricate inflammatory networks and highlights its therapeutic potential as a novel target for anti‐inflammatory treatments.
Primary and Orthotopic Murine Models of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Reveal Molecular Mechanisms Underlying its Malignant Progression
Authors: Wan Xudong , Liu Yuantao , Peng Yiman , Wang Jian , Yan Shu‐mei , Zhang Lu , Wu Wanchun , Zhao Lei , Chen Xuelan , Ren Kexin , Long Haicheng , Luo Yiling , Yan Qin , Zhang Lele , Lei Dengzhi , Liu Pengpeng , Li Shujun , Liu Lihui , Guo Linjie , Du Jiajia , Zhang Mengsha , Dai Siqi , Yang Yi , Liu Hongyu , Chen Nianyong , Bei Jinxin , Feng Lin , Liu Yu , Zeng Mu‐sheng , Chen Chong , Zhong Qian
Published: July 2024

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a squamous cell carcinoma originating in the nasopharynx, is a leading malignancy in south China and other south and east Asia areas. It is frequently associated with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection, while there are also some NPC patients without EBV infection. Here, it is shown that the EBV+ (EBV positive) and EBV‐ (EBV negative) NPCs contain both shared and distinct genetic abnormalities, among the latter are increased mutations in TP53. To investigate the functional roles of NPC‐associated genetic alterations, primary, orthotopic, and genetically defined NPC models were developed in mice, a key tool missed in the field. These models, initiated with gene‐edited organoids of normal nasopharyngeal epithelium, faithfully recapitulated the pathological features of human disease. With these models, it is found that Trp53 and Cdkn2a deficiency are crucial for NPC initiation and progression. And latent membrane protein1 (LMP1), an EBV‐coding oncoprotein, significantly promoted the distal metastasis. Further, loss of TGFBR2, which is frequently disrupted both in EBV‐ and EBV+ NPCs, dramatically accelerated the progression and lung metastasis of NPC probably by altering tumor microenvironment. Taken together, this work establishes a platform to dissect the genetic mechanisms underlying NPC pathogenesis and might be of value for future translational studies.
Opto‐Thermal‐Tension Mediated Precision Large‐Scale Particle Manipulation and Flexible Patterning
Authors: He Ziyi , Xiong Jianyun , Shi Yang , Zhu Guoshuai , Li Xing , Pan Ting , Li Baojun , Xin Hongbao
Published: July 2024

Large‐scale particle manipulation with single‐particle precision and further flexible patterning into functional structures is of huge potentials in many fields including bio‐optoelectronic sensing, colloidal lithography, and wearable devices. However, it is very challenging for the precision manipulation and flexible patterning of particles on complicated curved and functional substrates. In this work, opto‐thermal‐tension (OTT) mediated precision large‐scale particle manipulation and flexible patterning based on soap film are reported. Flexible manipulation and subsequent patterning of particles with single‐particle resolution is realized by optothermal regulated surface tension on soap films. Reconfigurable patterning of particle structures with different shapes as well as large‐scale ordered structures (up to 2000 particles) with particle sizes spanning two orders of magnitude (0.5–20 µm) is realized using this OTT mediation method. Importantly, due to the high flexibility of soap films, the patterned large‐scale particle structures can be non‐destructively transferred to curved and rough substrates, including rough iron pipe surface, leaf and skin surface. This OTT mediated method provides a new method for precision large‐scale particle manipulation and flexible patterning with high versatility on complicated functional substrates, with great potentials for optoelectronic and biophotonic sensing and wearable device design on different curved and rough functional substrates.
Pore structure manipulation‐enhanced sodium storage of calcium‐lignosulfonate‐based hard carbon
Authors: Gou Yunfei , Bai Lixin , Ma Yandong , Jiang Jian , Kong Lingbin , Qi Yuruo
Published: July 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted a lot of attention owing to their low cost, as well as similar working mechanism and manufacturing technique to lithium‐ion batteries. However, the practical application of SIBs is severely hindered by limited electrode materials. Disordered carbons are reported to be promising as anode materials for SIBs. Here, for the first time, calcium lignosulfonate (LSCa), one papermaking waste, is explored as a novel low‐cost precursor for carbon materials of SIBs. The optimized LSCa‐derived carbon delivers a high reversible capacity of 317 mA h g−1 at 30 mA g−1 with ~60% plateau capacity, and it retains a capacity of 170 mA h g−1 even at 3000 mA g−1. These achievements are ascribed to the larger d002 values, smaller defects, and more closed pores, compared with the original sample from the direct carbonization of LSCa.
(NHC)Mn(I) Complex Catalyzed Selective Transfer Hydrogenation of Epoxides, Azoarenes and Nitroarenes Utilizing Ammonia Borane
Authors: Kumari Saloni , Roy Souvik , Ranjan Saha Kanak , Kundu Sabuj
Published: July 2024

Herein, we have reported an effective protocol for the regioselective transfer hydrogenation (TH) of epoxides by utilizing a phosphine‐free bis‐NHC−Mn(I) complex and ammonia borane. By employing this strategy, aromatic epoxides were selectively converted to primary alcohols whereas secondary alcohols were obtained exclusively from aliphatic epoxides. The protocol was further extended for the TH of azoarenes and nitroarenes to hydrazoarenes and anilines respectively. Notably, a library of substrates with different functional groups were screened which resulted in the corresponding transfer hydrogenated product in good to excellent yields. A series of mechanistic investigations were carried out to understand the catalytic process.
Formate Dehydrogenase: Recent Developments for NADH and NADPH Recycling in Biocatalysis
Authors: Maier Artur , Mguni Lindelo M. , Ngo Anna C. R. , Tischler Dirk
Published: July 2024

Formate dehydrogenases (FDHs) catalyze the oxidation of formate to CO2 while reducing NAD(P)+ to NAD(P)H and are classified into two main classes: metal‐dependent (Mo‐ or W‐containing) and metal‐independent FDHs. The latter are oxygen‐tolerant and relevant as a cofactor regeneration system for various bioprocesses and gained more and more attention due to their ability to catalyze the reverse CO2 reduction. This review gives an overview of metal‐independent FDHs, the recent advances made in this field, and their relevance for future applications in biocatalysis. This includes the exploitation of novel FDHs which have altered co‐substrate specificity as well as enzyme engineering approaches to improve process stability and general performance.
Charge Redistribution in Nise2/Mos2 n–n Heterojunction Towards the Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of Ciprofloxacin
Authors: Yusuf Tunde L. , Olatunde Olalekan C. , Masekela Daniel , Modibane Kwena D. , Onwudiwe Damian C. , Makgato Seshibe
Published: July 2024

This study reports the photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) activity of a n–n heterojunction comprising MoS2 and NiSe2. The synthesis of the composite was achieved through a facile solvothermal method, yielding an exfoliated MoS2 layered sheet loaded with NiSe2 nanoparticles. Under visible light radiation and an external electric field, the obtained composite NiSe2/MoS2 exhibited enhanced catalytic activity for ciprofloxacin (CIP) degradation. The NiSe2/MoS2 heterojunction achieved about 78 % degradation efficiency with a first‐order kinetic rate of 0.0111 min−1, compared to 38 % efficiency and a first‐order kinetic rate of 0.0044 min−1 observed for MoS2. The NiSe2/MoS2 heterojunction was more advantageous due to the synergy of charge carrier induction by visible light radiation and improved charge carrier separation induced by the external electric field. The formation of n–n heterojunction at the interface of the two materials resulted in charge redistribution in the materials, with a simultaneous realignment of the band structure to achieve Fermi energy equilibration. The primary reactive species responsible for CIP degradation was identified as the photo‐induced h+. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibited high stability and reusability, with no significant reduction in activity observed after five experimental cycles. This study reveals the potential of exploring the synergy between the photocatalytic and electrocatalytic processes in removing harmful pharmaceutical compounds from water.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of palisading adenocarcinoma: The first cytology report of a newly described salivary gland neoplasm
Authors: Rivera Jonathan P. , Kuo Ying‐Ju , Yeh Yi‐Chen , Bishop Justin A. , Hang Jen‐Fan
Published: July 2024

Here, we report the first cytology findings of the newly characterized entity, palisading adenocarcinoma of the salivary gland, diagnosed in the sublingual gland of a 61‐year‐old female. The liquid‐based cytology showed a moderately cellular aspirate containing three‐dimensional clusters and trabeculae of tumor cells of various sizes. The cells had dark ovoid nuclei, finely granular chromatin, inconspicuous to punctate nucleoli, and ample cyanophilic cytoplasm with indistinct cell borders. In conventional smears, the cells displayed frequent crush artifacts and anisonucleosis resembling endocrine‐type atypia. The background was clean, devoid of secretions, and contained singly dispersed tumor cells with stripped nuclei. Interestingly, concentrically laminated globules of extracellular matrix surrounded by the tumor cells were identified. Mitotic figures and tumor necrotic debris were absent. The cytologic findings correlated with the histologic findings of the excision specimen. The cytologic differential diagnosis and tumor grading of palisading adenocarcinoma were briefly discussed.
Optimization of the chromium (Cr+6) reduction from waterways using chemically and bacterially treated agro‐waste
Authors: Ruparelia Jayeshkumar , Soni Rishit A. , Patel Hiren K.
Published: July 2024

Heavy metals, a major source of pollution in the environment, pose a substantial threat due to their non‐biodegradability and ability to accumulate in living organisms, causing health problems. Recently, researchers have been searching for cost‐effective and safe ways to remove heavy metals from polluted waterways using agricultural waste substitutes. The present study focused on the low‐cost treatments for the reduction of chromium Cr+6 metal from the effluent, wherein it has been found that chemically and bacterially treated agro‐waste had increased heavy metal ion adsorption capabilities. A sequential optimization of the process parameters was attempted using Plackett–Burman design (PBD) and central composite design of response surface methodology (CCD‐RSM) for the maximum reduction of the chromium metal from the effluent. A total of eight parameters were screened out using a 12‐run PBD experiment. Out of the eight parameters, time, HCl, NaOH, and bacterial treatments were found to be significantly affecting the maximum reduction of Cr+6 from the effluent. To investigate the interactions' effects of the chosen parameters, they were evaluated using CCD‐RSM. Maximum 74% Cr+6 reduction was achieved under the optimum treatment to rice husk of HCl 4.52 N, NaOH 3.53 N, bacterial suspension 7.41%, and with an interaction time 14.32 min using 30 run CCD‐RSM experiment. A scanning electron microscope was used to confirm the effects of selected variables on the agro‐waste for the Cr+6 reductions, as well as a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer.
Algunas características de las flores de Chamissoa altissima (Jacq.) var. altissima
Authors: de la Luz de Armas Matilde
Published: July 2024

En este trabajo fue realizado un estudio de las flores de Chamissoa altissima var. altissima. Las flores mostraron una sexualidad funcional; estas flores son morfológicamente hermafroditas, unisexuales y estériles. Los resultados son discutidos en este trabajo.
Evaluation of a latency‐based competing stimulus assessment
Authors: Imler Madison H. , Weyman Jennifer R.
Published: July 2024

A competing stimulus assessment is used to identify stimuli that are associated with a low level of challenging behavior and a high level of engagement. These stimuli are often used as a treatment component for challenging behavior that is maintained by automatic reinforcement. One limitation of implementing competing stimulus assessments is that they may be time consuming. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy and efficiency of a latency‐based competing stimulus assessment. During the asssessment, a therapist presented potential competing stimuli to the participants and contingent on the first occurrence of challenging behavior, the trial was terminated. The results of a brief treatment evaluation indicated that stimuli that were associated with the longest latency to challenging behavior were more effective in competing with challenging behavior relative to stimuli that were associated with shorter latencies. However, procedural modifications were necessary for one participant. The use of latency‐based measures improved the efficiency of conducting a competing stimulus assessment.
Direct and indirect effects of and preferences for feedback during the Good Behavior Game in elementary classes
Authors: Chotto Jensen , Linton Elizabeth , Donaldson Jeanne M.
Published: July 2024

The Good Behavior Game (GBG) is an effective procedure for reducing disruptive classroom behavior. Students in three fifth‐grade classes selected the rules of the GBG and then experienced the GBG with different forms of feedback for rule violations (vocal and visual, vocal only, visual only, no feedback). Following an initial baseline, the four feedback versions of the GBG and a baseline condition were alternated across sessions in a multielement design. All versions of the GBG substantially reduced disruptive behavior below baseline levels. Additionally, in one of the three classes losing the GBG produced an increase in negative peer interactions immediately following the GBG. Following the multielement comparison, we implemented a group‐arrangement concurrent‐chains preference assessment in which students selected one of the conditions to experience each day. The most selected condition across all classes was the GBG condition, which included both vocal and visual feedback.