bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting T‐cell quality during manufacturing through an artificial intelligence‐based integrative multiomics analytical platform
Authors: Odeh‐Couvertier Valerie Y. , Dwarshuis Nathan J. , Colonna Maxwell B. , Levine Bruce L. , Edison Arthur S. , Kotanchek Theresa , Roy Krishnendu , Torres‐Garcia Wandaliz
Published: December 2021

Large‐scale, reproducible manufacturing of therapeutic cells with consistently high quality is vital for translation to clinically effective and widely accessible cell therapies. However, the biological and logistical complexity of manufacturing a living product, including challenges associated with their inherent variability and uncertainties of process parameters, currently make it difficult to achieve predictable cell‐product quality. Using a degradable microscaffold‐based T‐cell process, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI)‐driven experimental‐computational platform to identify a set of critical process parameters and critical quality attributes from heterogeneous, high‐dimensional, time‐dependent multiomics data, measurable during early stages of manufacturing and predictive of end‐of‐manufacturing product quality. Sequential, design‐of‐experiment‐based studies, coupled with an agnostic machine‐learning framework, were used to extract feature combinations from early in‐culture media assessment that were highly predictive of the end‐product CD4/CD8 ratio and total live CD4+ and CD8+ naïve and central memory T cells (CD63L+CCR7+). Our results demonstrate a broadly applicable platform tool to predict end‐product quality and composition from early time point in‐process measurements during therapeutic cell manufacturing.
Fatty Acyl Sulfonyl Fluoride as an Activity‐Based Probe for Profiling Fatty Acid‐Associated Proteins in Living Cells
Authors: Zhang Dong , Lu Minghao , Chen Chengjie , Xu Yaxin , Peng Tao
Published: December 2021

Fatty acids play fundamental structural, metabolic, functional, and signaling roles in all biological systems. Altered fatty acid levels and metabolism have been associated with many pathological conditions. Chemical probes have greatly facilitated biological studies on fatty acids. Herein, we report the development and characterization of an alkynyl‐functionalized long‐chain fatty acid‐based sulfonyl fluoride probe for covalent labelling, enrichment, and identification of fatty acid‐associated proteins in living cells. Our quantitative chemical proteomics show that this sulfonyl fluoride probe targets diverse classes of fatty acid‐associated proteins including many metabolic serine hydrolases that are known to be involved in fatty acid metabolism and modification. We further validate that the probe covalently modifies the catalytically or functionally essential serine or tyrosine residues of its target proteins and enables evaluation of their inhibitors. The sulfonyl fluoride‐based chemical probe thus represents a new tool for profiling the expression and activity of fatty acid‐associated proteins in living cells.
Stem cells technology as a platform for generating reproductive system organoids and treatment of infertility‐related diseases
Authors: Jahanbani Yalda , Shafiee Samira , Davaran Soodabeh , Roshangar Leila , Ahmadian Elham , Eftekhari Aziz , Dolati Sanam , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: December 2021

In recent years, stem cells have known as a helpful biological tool for the accurate diagnosis, treatment and recognition of diseases. Using stem cells as biomarkers have presented high potential in the early detection of many diseases. Another advancement in stem cell technology includes stem cell derived organoids model that could be a promising platform for diagnosis and modeling different diseases. Furthermore, therapeutic capabilities of stem cell therapy have increased hope in the face of different disability managements. All of these technologies are also widely used in reproductive related diseases especially in today's world that many couples encounter infertility problems. However, with the aid of numerous improvements in the treatment of infertility, over 80% of couples who dreamed of having children could now have children. Due to the fact that infertility has many negative effects on personal and social lives of young couples, many researchers have focused on the treatment of male and female reproductive system abnormalities with different types of stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and umbilical cord‐derived MSCs. Also, design and formation of reproductive system organoids provide a fascinating window into disease modeling, drug screening, personalized therapy, and regeneration medicine. Utilizing these techniques to study, model and treat the infertility‐related diseases has drawn attention of many scientists. This review explains different applications of stem cells in generating reproductive system organoids and stem cell‐based therapies for male and female infertility related diseases treatment.
Cancer case trends following the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic: A community‐based observational study with extended follow‐up
Authors: Drescher Charles W. , Bograd Adam J. , Chang Shu‐Ching , Weerasinghe Roshanthi K. , Vita Ann , Bell R. Bryan
Published: December 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has impacted health care delivery worldwide. Cancer is a leading cause of death, and the impact of the pandemic on cancer diagnoses is an important public health concern.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study retrospectively analyzed the electronic medical records of 80,138 cancer patients diagnosed between January 1, 2019, and May 31, 2021. Outcome measures included weekly number of new cancer cases and trends in weekly cancer cases, before and after the pandemic; patient demographics; and positive COVID‐19 test rates.

Results

Beginning March 4, 2020, defined as the onset of the pandemic, weekly cancer cases declined precipitously (–110.0 cases per week [95% confidence interval, −190.2 to −29.8]) for 4 weeks, followed by a moderate recovery (+23.7 cases per week [9.1 to 38.4]) of 10 weeks duration. Thereafter, weekly cancer cases trended slowly back toward pre‐COVID‐19 baseline levels. Following the pandemic onset, there was a cumulative year‐over‐year decline in cancer cases overall of 7.3%, including a 20.2%, 14.3%, and 12.8% decline in nonmelanoma skin cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer, respectively. Changes in case volumes were accompanied by variations in patient characteristics, including region, age, gender, race, insurance coverage, and COVID‐19 positive test rates (P < .01 for all). Among patients tested for COVID‐19, 5.3% had a positive result.

Conclusions

The data in this study demonstrate a substantial reduction in cancer diagnoses following the onset of COVID‐19, which appear to reach expected pre‐COVID norms 12 months later. The largest reduction was noted among cancers that are typically screen‐detected or identified as part of a routine wellness examination.
C2 Regularity of the Surface Tension for the ∇ϕ Interface Model
Authors: Armstrong Scott , Wu Wei
Published: December 2021

We consider the ∇ϕ interface model with a uniformly convex interaction potential possessing Hölder continuous second derivatives. Combining ideas of Naddaf and Spencer with methods from quantitative homogenization, we show that the surface tension (or free energy) associated to the model is at least C2,β for some β > 0. We also prove a fluctuation‐dissipation relation by identifying its Hessian with the covariance matrix characterizing the scaling limit of the model. Finally, we obtain a quantitative rate of convergence for the Hessian of the finite‐volume surface tension to that of its infinite‐volume limit.
Interleukin‐2‐inducible T‐cell kinase (Itk) signaling regulates potent noncanonical regulatory T cells
Authors: Mammadli Mahinbanu , Harris Rebecca , Suo Liye , May Adriana , Gentile Teresa , Waickman Adam T. , Bah Alaji , August Avery , Nurmemmedov Elmar , Karimi Mobin
Published: December 2021

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an important role in controlling autoimmunity and limiting tissue damage and inflammation. IL2‐inducible T cell kinase (Itk) is part of the Tec family of tyrosine kinases and is a critical component of T cell receptor mediated signaling. Here, we showed that either genetic ablation of Itk signaling or inhibition of Itk signaling pathways resulted in increased frequency of “noncanonical” CD4+CD25−FOXP3+ Tregs (ncTregs), as well as of “canonical” CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs (canTregs). Using in vivo models, we showed that ncTregs can avert the formation of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD), in part by reducing conventional T cell proliferation, proinflammatory cytokine production, and tissue damage. This reduction in GVHD occurred without disruption of graft‐versus‐leukaemia (GVL) effects. RNA sequencing revealed that a number of effector, cell adhesion, and migration molecules were upregulated in Itk–/− ncTregs. Furthermore, disrupting the SLP76: ITK interaction using a specific peptide inhibitor led to enhanced Treg development in both mouse and primary human cells. This peptide inhibitor also significantly reduced inflammatory cytokine production in primary GVHD patient samples and mouse T cells without causing cell death or apoptosis. We provide evidence that specifically targeting Itk signaling could be a therapeutic strategy to treat autoimmune disorders.
Microbiomes in Canidae
Authors: Biles Tyler L. , Beck Harald , Masters Brian S.
Published: December 2021

Because of their range expansion across North America, coyotes (Canis latrans) now occur sympatrically with numerous other predator species, including red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). This raises several interesting ecological questions, including if and how sympatry affects the diet and gut microbiomes of coyotes and red foxes. We examined the gut microbiomes of sympatric populations of coyotes and red foxes within two different National Parks in Virginia, USA, that differ in land use, vegetation, and anthropogenic disturbance: Prince William Forest Park (PRWI) and Manassas National Battlefield Park (MANA). From 2012 to 2017, scat samples from PRWI and MANA were collected and analyzed. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of a region of the mitochondrial cytochrome‐b gene followed by restriction enzyme digestion of the PCR product was used to determine the origin of each scat sample. Next‐Generation DNA sequencing of a hypervariable 16S rRNA gene region was used to determine gut microbiome information about the scat samples. There was no evidence for a difference between the gut microbiomes of red foxes in either location, or for a difference between the gut microbiomes of red foxes at either location and coyotes at the location with lower human disturbance, PRWI. However, the gut microbiomes of coyotes at the location with higher anthropogenic disturbances, MANA, revealed a marked change from those found in red foxes at either location and from those in coyotes at the location with lower disturbances. The gut microbiomes of coyotes subjected to greater human impact may provide evidence of dysbiosis, indicative of increased physiological stress and reduced health. We discuss our observations in the context of understanding anthropogenic impacts on coyote and red fox interactions. Our results suggest that physiological stress in the form of human disturbance may play an important role in the composition of the gut microbiome of coyotes, which can affect their overall health.
Functional traits of alpine plant communities show long‐term resistance to changing herbivore densities
Authors: Vuorinen Katariina E. M. , Austrheim Gunnar , Mysterud Atle , Gya Ragnhild , Vandvik Vigdis , Grytnes John‐Arvid , Speed James D. M.
Published: December 2021

Herbivores shape vegetation by suppressing certain plant species while benefitting others. By thus modifying plant species functional composition, herbivores affect carbon cycling, albedo, vegetation structure and species' interactions. These effects have been suggested to be able to counteract the effects of increasing temperatures on vegetation in alpine environments. Managing the dominant large ungulates in these ecosystems could thus provide a tool to mitigate climate change effects. However, it is possible that legacy effects of past grazing will dampen ungulate impacts on vegetation. We shed a light on this topic by investigating the short‐ and long‐term effects of varying sheep densities on the plant trait composition in the Norwegian alpine tundra with centuries‐long of intensive grazing history. In the first part of our study, we quantified the effects of sheep on the plant community functional trait composition at different elevations and under moderate and low productivity in. We combined data from two long‐term (14 and 19 yr) sheep fence experiments and showed that differences in sheep densities did not affect plant trait composition, irrespective of productivity. However, in the second part of our study, we showed that the plant trait composition in mainland (that has been grazed for centuries) differed from vegetation on islands which have been herbivore‐free. Taken together, these results suggest that sheep have an effect on the alpine plant communities on historical time scales covering centuries, but that the resulting sheep grazing resistant/tolerant communities may not respond to shorter‐term (14 and 19 yr) changes in sheep densities, that is, at temporal scales relevant for ecosystem management. Furthermore, we showed that the plant trait composition at the site with low productivity had gone through a temporal trait change independent of sheep treatment, potentially due to increased temperatures and precipitation, suggesting that sheep may not be able to counteract climatic impacts in the areas with centuries‐long grazing history.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Boron‐Containing Macrocyclic Polyamine Dimers and Their Zinc(II) Complexes for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Authors: Ueda Hiroki , Suzuki Minoru , Sakurai Yoshinori , Tanaka Tomohiro , Aoki Shin
Published: December 2021

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is considered to have potential for cancer therapy based on the nuclear reaction between boron (10B) atoms and thermal neutrons, yielding 4He2+ (α) and 7Li3+ ions. These heavy particles induce the destruction of biomolecules within short path length of 5–9 μm, resulting in a limited cytotoxic effect to 10B‐containing cells. Herein, we report on the design and synthesis of DNA‐targeting BNCT agents equipped with homo‐ and hetero‐dimeric macrocyclic polyamine units and their Zn2+ complexes. It was hypothesized that the dizinc(II) complexes of these ligands would recognize two adjacent thymidines (thymidyl(3'–5')thymidine), resulting in an efficient contact with DNA and an efficient breakdown of DNA upon thermal neutron irradiation. To test this hypothesis, we performed a DNA interaction study and a biological evaluation such as cytotoxicity and intracellular uptake activity using cancer and normal cells. BNCT experiments utilizing the corresponding 10B‐enriched compounds were also conducted.
A survey of recent progress on novel catalytic materials with precise crystalline structures for oxidation/hydrogenation of key biomass platform chemicals
Authors: Yang Dan , Liu Xuan , Zhao Wanna , Yan Qian , Song Fei , Wang Tianci , Dai Yihu , Wan Xiaoyue , Zhou Chunmei , Yang Yanhui
Published: December 2021

In the global attempt to reduce carbon footprint toward sustainability, the chemical and petrochemical industry faces the problem to replace the fossil feedstock with renewable resources, reduce energy consumption and to intensify and integrate the processes to be more carbon efficient. Biomass containing plentiful and renewable carbon resources is regarded to be a desired alternative for fossil fuel. Recently, research community has paid remarkable attention to develop the catalytic processes to produce fuels and chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass. This review surveys the recent advances of several representative novel catalytic materials with precise crystalline structures for key biomass platform chemicals (glucose, levulinic acid, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, and furfural) conversion processes, including oxidation, hydrogenation, and cascade reactions. The mechanistic reaction pathways are discussed, as well as the active sites and catalyst design. Additionally, the challenges and opportunities in this particular area is projected and shared with the community.

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Nonlinear seismic performance study of D‐type self‐centering eccentric braced frames with sliding rocking link beams
Authors: Rezvan Pooya , Zhang Yunfeng
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a nonlinear numerical simulation study of the D‐type self‐centering eccentric braced frame system with a sliding rocking link beam (SCEBF‐SRL) to overcome the beam‐growth problem. The re‐centering capability of such SCEBF‐SRLs is enabled by post‐tensioned (PT) steel‐stranded cables. Replaceable hysteretic dampers termed RHD are used as seismic fuse devices for energy dissipation, while the friction force due to the relative movement of the sliding rocking link beam inside the column corbels would also contribute to the energy dissipation capacity of the system. Analytical load versus displacement relationships of an SCEBF‐SRL module frame were formulated and cross‐validated with nonlinear finite element (FE) analysis results. The seismic performance of the proposed system was studied through nonlinear static and dynamic analysis of three‐ and six‐story prototype SCEBF‐SRL buildings. A set of twenty‐two far‐field ground motions from the FEMA P695 database was adopted for nonlinear dynamic analysis (NDA). NDA results revealed that the ensemble median of the maximum inter‐story drift ratios (IDRs) of both SCEBF‐SRL prototypes were less than 1.4% and 2.0% at the design basis earthquake (DBE) and the risk‐targeted maximum considered earthquake (MCER) levels, respectively. Additionally, both SCEBF‐SRL buildings fully re‐centered themselves at MCER with negligibly small residual drift (<0.01%). The parametric study results suggest that with an energy dissipation ratio, between 25% and 60% and a minimum stiffness ratio of 5%, the ensemble median of the maximum IDR of the considered prototype building could be made less than 1.5% and 2.3% at DBE and MCER levels, respectively.
Forest restoration limits megafires and supports species conservation under climate change
Authors: Jones Gavin M , Keyser Alisa R , Westerling A Leroy , Baldwin W Jonathan , Keane John J , Sawyer Sarah C , Clare John DJ , Gutiérrez RJ , Peery M Zachariah
Published: December 2021

Climate change and fire suppression have altered disturbance regimes in forest ecosystems globally. In the seasonally dry forests of western North America, large‐scale restoration may reduce severe fire and increase forest resilience but also eliminate existing habitat for sensitive wildlife species. We modeled bioregional‐scale effects of forest restoration on future severe fire activity and occupancy dynamics of an old‐forest species declining in abundance, the spotted owl (Strix occidentalis), in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. Our findings suggest restoring historical forest structure may mitigate severe fire activity as the climate warms, particularly when restoration occurs in owl habitat. On average, benefits provided by restoration to owls (reduced severe fire) were found to exceed potential costs (direct habitat alteration) by mid‐century. However, the magnitude and direction of restoration trade‐offs varied spatially, which informs restoration planning. When large, old trees are maintained, forest restoration can provide co‐benefits to old‐forest species and forest ecosystem resilience under climate change.
Ensuring optimal ventilation of calf buildings
Authors: Halbach Courtney , Robertson Jamie
Published: December 2021

Background: There has been considerable change over the past 10 years in the perceived value of beef and dairy calves, with potential for improvement to animal health and farm financial sustainability. One of the main calf health issues is respiratory disease, with multifactorial aspects that all require attention in order to produce healthy calves. Poor ventilation is often cited as a contributing factor to respiratory problems on specific farms, but it is seldom described in an objective manner that would facilitate providing an effective solution.

Aim of the article: This article outlines the importance of fresh air in calf houses on calf health, with specific focus on natural ventilation, stack effect and positive pressure tube ventilation.
Circulating JNK pathway‐associated phosphatase: A novel biomarker correlates with Th17 cells, acute exacerbation risk, and severity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
Authors: Gao Wei , Gao Lianjun , Yang Feng , Li Zongjun
Published: December 2021

Background

JNK pathway‐associated phosphatase (JKAP) involves in the regulation of inflammation, immunity, and lung injury. The current study aimed to investigate correlation of JKAP with Th1, Th17 cells, acute exacerbation risk, and disease severity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

Methods

Totally, 45 stable COPD (SCOPD) patients, 45 acute exacerbation COPD (AECOPD) patients, and 45 controls were enrolled. Serum was collected for JKAP, interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) (Th1 cytokine), and interleukin 17 (IL‐17) (Th17 cytokine) detection. Besides, peripheral blood mononuclear cell from COPD patients was collected for evaluating Th1 and Th17 cells.

Results

JKAP was highest in controls followed by SCOPD patients and lowest in AECOPD patients (median: 105.673 vs. 75.374 vs. 41.807 pg/ml, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves revealed that JKAP differentiated the AECOPD patients from the controls (area under curve (AUC): 0.910 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.849–0.970)) and AECOPD patients from SCOPD patients (AUC: 0.726 (95% CI: 0.622–0.830)). Moreover, JKAP positively correlated with FEV1 (%predicted) in AECOPD patients (r = 0.347 p = 0.019). Additionally, JKAP was negatively correlated with the GOLD stage in AECOPD patients (r = −0.344, p = 0.021) and SCOPD patients (r = −0.357, p = 0.016). Whereas, JKAP was not associated with other clinical features (all p > 0.05). Besides, JKAP was negatively linked with Th17 cells (r = −0.378, p = 0.010), IFN‐γ (r = −0.358, p = 0.016), IL‐17 (r = −0.414, p = 0.005) in AECOPD patients and Th17 cells (r = −0.342, p = 0.022), IL‐17 (r = −0.299, p = 0.046) in SCOPD patients.

Conclusion

Downregulated JKAP correlates with Th17 cells, higher acute exacerbation risk, and severity in COPD patients, indicating its underlying potency as a biomarker for COPD.
Acute and early developmental outcomes of children with Duarte galactosemia
Authors: Fridovich‐Keil Judith L. , Carlock Grace , Patel Sneh , Potter Nancy L. , Coles Claire D.
Published: December 2021

A recent study demonstrated that children with Duarte galactosemia (DG) do not show increased prevalence of detectable developmental complications when 6–12 years old. However, that study left unanswered whether infants with DG might be at increased risk for acute problems when drinking milk or whether children with DG younger than 6 years might show increased prevalence of perhaps transient developmental challenges. Here, we have addressed both of these questions by analyzing parent/guardian‐reported data collected retrospectively for 350 children, 206 with DG and 144 unaffected siblings from the same families. The variables analyzed included whether each child had experienced (1) acute complications in infancy, (2) early intervention services when <3 years old, and/or (3) special educational services when 3–5 years old. For each case–control comparison, or case‐by‐diet comparison, we used logistic regression that included the following potential covariates: age, sex, race, family income, and parent education, as appropriate. We found that none of the three outcome variables tested showed significant differences between cases and controls, or among cases as a function of galactose exposure in infancy. To the limits of our study, we therefore conclude that regardless of whether a child with DG drinks milk or low‐galactose formula as an infant, they are not at increased risk for acute complications or early childhood developmental challenges that require intervention.
Lipidomics analysis unravels changes from flavor precursors in different processing treatments of purple‐leaf tea
Authors: Chen Xuejin , Wang Pengjie , Wei Mingxiu , Lin Xinying , Gu Mengya , Fang Wanping , Zheng Yucheng , Zhao Feng , Jin Shan , Ye Naixing
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Lipids are one of the most important bioactive compounds, affecting the character and quality of tea. However, the contribution of lipids to tea productions is still elusive. Here, we systematically identified the lipid profiles of green, oolong, and black teas in purple‐leaf tea (Jinmingzao, JMZ) and green‐leaf tea (Huangdan, HD), respectively.

RESULTS

The lipids analysis showed regular accumulation in tea products with different manufacturing processes, among which the fatty acids, glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, and sphingolipids contribute to the quality characteristics of tea products, including typical fatty acyl (FA), monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG), digalactosyldiacylglycerols (DGDG), and phosphatidylcholine (PC). Compared tea materials with products, levels of fatty acids were up‐regulated, while glycerolipids and glycerophospholipids were down‐regulated in tea products. FA 18:3, FA 16:0, MGDG 36:6, DGDG 36:6, PC 34:3, and PC 36:6 were the negative contributors to green tea flavor formation of purple‐leaf tea. The pathway analysis of significant lipids in materials and products of purple‐leaf tea were enriched linolenic acid metabolism pathway and glycerolipid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

This study provides insights into the lipid metabolism profiles of different tea leaf colors, and found that fatty acids are essential precursors of black tea flavor formation. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Mismatch repair system deficiency is associated with chemoradiotherapy resistance in locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Ni Kemin , Zhan Yixiang , Liu Zhaoce , Zhao Xuan‐zhu , Wang Wanting , Wang Guihua , Zhang Zili , Li Guoxun , Zhang Xipeng , Zhang Chunze
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives

Previous studies have concluded that colorectal cancer patients with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) usually have a good prognosis. However, some studies have suggested that the prognosis of rectal cancer patients with dMMR appears to be worse. Our aim was to investigate chemoradiotherapy resistance in dMMR rectal tumors.

Methods

A retrospective study of 217 patients with locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma treated with chemoradiotherapy and total mesorectal excision surgery was conducted using immunohistochemistry to determine MMR status and propensity score matching models to reduce potential confounders. Kaplan–Meier analysis, log‐rank test, and Cox regression models were used to assess overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in patient subgroups.

Results

The 3‐year DFS rates were 77.1% and 56.7% in the pMMR and dMMR groups, respectively. The pMMR group had significantly better DFS than the dMMR group (hazard ratio [HR], 2.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10–3.91; p = 0.019). However, there was no significant difference in OS between the two groups (45.7 [interquartile range, IQR], 39.3–72.1] vs. 47.5 [IQR, 29.5–72.1]) (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 0.70–2.77; p = 0.35). Neither OS nor DFS was significantly different between the neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and postoperative chemoradiotherapy groups.

Conclusion

Locally advanced dMMR rectal adenocarcinoma exhibits greater chemoradiotherapy resistance than pMMR.
Proof of concept for the sapphire scalpel combining tissue dissection and optical diagnosis
Authors: Dolganova Irina N. , Varvina Daria A. , Shikunova Irina A. , Alekseeva Anna I. , Karalkin Pavel A. , Kuznetsov Maxim R. , Nikitin Pavel V. , Zotov Arsen K. , Mukhina Elena E. , Katyba Gleb M. , Zaytsev Kirill I. , Tuchin Valery V. , Kurlov Vladimir N.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The development of compact diagnostic probes and instruments with an ability to direct access to organs and tissues and integration of these instruments into surgical workflows is an important task of modern physics and medicine. The need for such tools is essential for surgical oncology, where intraoperative visualization and demarcation of tumor margins define further prognosis and survival of patients. In this paper, the possible solution for this intraoperative imaging problem is proposed and its feasibility to detect tumorous tissue is studied experimentally.

Methods

For this aim, the sapphire scalpel was developed and fabricated using the edge‐defined film‐fed growth technique aided by mechanical grinding, polishing, and chemical sharpening of the cutting edge. It possesses optical transparency, mechanical strength, chemical inertness, and thermal resistance alongside the presence of the as‐grown hollow capillary channels in its volume for accommodating optical fibers. The rounding of the cutting edge exceeds the same for metal scalpels and can be as small as 110 nm. Thanks to these features, sapphire scalpel combines tissue dissection with light delivering and optical diagnosis. The feasibility for the tumor margin detection was studied, including both gelatin‐based tissue phantoms and ex vivo freshly excised specimens of the basal cell carcinoma from humans and the glioma model 101.8 from rats. These tumors are commonly diagnosed either non‐invasively or intraoperatively using different modalities of fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging, which makes them ideal candidates for our feasibility test. For this purpose, fiber‐based spectroscopic measurements of the backscattered laser radiation and the fluorescence signals were carried out in the visible range.

Results

Experimental studies show the feasibility of the proposed sapphire scalpel to provide a 2‐mm‐resolution of the tumor margins' detection, along with an ability to distinguish the tumor invasion region, which results from analysis of the backscattered optical fields and the endogenous or exogenous fluorescence data.

Conclusions

Our findings justified a strong potential of the sapphire scalpel for surgical oncology. However, further research and engineering efforts are required to optimize the sapphire scalpel geometry and the optical diagnosis protocols to meet the requirements of oncosurgery, including diagnosis and resection of neoplasms with different localizations and nosologies.
Plants as a realized niche for Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Truong Hoai‐Nam , Garmyn Dominique , Gal Laurent , Fournier Carine , Sevellec Yann , Jeandroz Sylvain , Piveteau Pascal
Published: December 2021

Listeria monocytogenes is a human pathogen. It is the causative agent of listeriosis, the leading cause of bacterial‐linked foodborne mortality in Europe and elsewhere. Outbreaks of listeriosis have been associated with the consumption of fresh produce including vegetables and fruits. In this review we summarize current data providing direct or indirect evidence that plants can serve as habitat for L. monocytogenes, enabling this human pathogen to survive and grow. The current knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the interaction of this bacterium with plants is addressed, and whether this foodborne pathogen elicits an immune response in plants is discussed.
MHA releases brief on psychosis‐risk experiences during COVID
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: December 2021

Observing a goal to analyze and disseminate data to aid in a timely and effective response to the increasing rates of anxiety, depression, psychosis, loneliness and other mental health concerns in the country, Mental Health America (MHA) last week released the final analysis of its four‐part series identifying the communities hardest hit by the mental health impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Role of resilience in healthcare workers’ distress and somatization during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional study across Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Franck Erik , Goossens Eva , Haegdorens Filip , Geuens Nina , Portzky Michael , Tytens Tinneke , Dilles Tinne , Beeckman Katrien , Timmermans Olaf , Slootmans Stijn , Van Rompaey Bart , Van Bogaert Peter
Published: December 2021

Aim

To evaluate the impact and the possible role of psychological resilience in the COVID‐19 pandemic outbreak on healthcare workers’ mental and physical well‐being in Belgium.

Design

This cross‐sectional, survey‐based study enrolled 1376 healthcare workers across Belgium from 17 April 2020 to 24 April 2020.

Methods

The study sample consisted of direct care workers (nurses and doctors), supporting staff and management staff members. The main outcomes are resilience, distress and somatization.

Results

Higher educational level was associated with lower symptoms of distress and somatization. Physicians exhibited the lowest risk of experiencing heightened levels of distress and somatization. Controlling for confounding factors, higher levels of resilience were associated with a 12% reduced chance of increased distress levels and 5% lower chance of increased somatization levels. Our results suggest the potentially buffering role of mental resilience on those working on the frontline during the COVID‐19 pandemic outbreak.
Novel aspects derived from the influence of dispersion properties of poly(4‐vinylpyridine)/aluminum nitride nanocomposite encapsulants on light‐extraction efficiency of light emitting diodes
Authors: Barzic Andreea Irina
Published: December 2021

New nanocomposites based on poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (P4VPy) containing 0%–5% aluminum nitride (AlN) are characterized to check their suitability as encapsulants for light emitting diodes with better light extraction efficiency (LEE). Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images indicate a good dispersion of the nanofillers inside the P4VPy. Spectroscopy data reveal that up to 1% filler, the transparency is preserved, being 78.2% at 450 nm for the sample filled with 1% AlN. Introduction of polar nanoceramics in the matrix determines an increase in the refractive index from 1.618 (0%AlN) to 1.650 (5%AlN) at 486 nm. All samples display normal dispersion curves in visible range. The linear and nonlinear optical parameters are enhanced upon reinforcement with AlN nanoparticles. New insights on LEE are extracted by analyzing the implications of dispersion of the samples at semiconductor and air interfaces, respectively. Implementation of the composite samples in a GaN‐based light emitting diodes determines enlargement of the critical angle and light escape cone. By making a comparison of the device in the presence and absence of P4VPy/AlN 1% encapsulant, the LEE at 486 nm at GaN interface improves by 58.4%, while at air interface LEE is increased up to 21.4%.
A semi‐analytical framework for time history response of a carbon nanotube‐reinforced polymer damped composite plate: Influence of instability regions
Authors: Singh Vishal , Kumar Rajesh
Published: December 2021

The influence of dynamic instability regions (DIRs) (stable and unstable) on the time history response of a randomly distributed carbon nanotube‐reinforced polymer composite (RD‐CNTRPC) plate under partial edge (nonuniform) in‐plane loading is presented semi‐analytically in this study. Kinematics of the RD‐CNTRPC plate is expressed based on higher‐order shear deformation theory (HSDT) and includes von‐Kármán nonlinearity. The effective isotropic mechanical properties of the RD‐CNTRPC plate (CNT mixed with epoxy) are executed using the Eshelby‐Mori‐Tanaka technique. The prebuckling stresses generated within the plate due to the partial‐edge in‐plane loading is computed using Airy's stress approach. The computed pre‐buckling stresses are used while applying Hamilton's principle to develop the governing nonlinear partial differential equation (PDEs). The PDEs are solved via. Galerkin's method to convert into the nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). These ODEs are solved using Newmark's method to trace the time history responses of the RD‐CNTRPC plate. The boundaries of DIRs are estimated using Bolotin's method. The effect of frequencies corresponding to upper, lower, and unstable regions of DIRs on the time history response and phase plot of the RD‐CNTRPC plate with and without damping are examined in detail.
Pregnancy outcomes of fetuses with congenital heart disease after a prenatal diagnosis with chromosome microarray
Authors: Zhang Zhu , Hu Ting , Wang Jiamin , Hu Rui , Li Qinqin , Xiao Like , Liao Na , Liu Zhushu , Wang He , Liu Shanling
Published: December 2021

Objective

To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes of fetuses with congenital heart disease (CHD) after chromosome microarray (CMA)‐based prenatal diagnosis.

Method

Amniocentesis was performed in 1035 pregnant women carrying fetuses with CHD between September 2014 and December 2019. Chromosomal aberrations in fetuses with CHD were evaluated using CMA. The pregnancy outcomes were followed up from 6 months to 5 years.

Results

The overall CHD detection rate by CMA was 10.1% (105/1035; 50 fetuses: aneuploidy, 55 fetuses: pathogenic or likely pathogenic copy number variations). Among 1003 fetuses who were followed up, 4, 236, 763, and 18 cases were of miscarriages, pregnancy termination, live births, and postnatal deaths, respectively. Self‐healed CHD was observed in 401 (52.6%) fetuses. The pregnancy termination rate of fetuses with chromosomal anomalies was significantly higher than that of fetuses without chromosomal anomalies (93.1% vs. 15.5%, p < 0.001). However, other pregnancy outcomes, including mortality, preterm labor, and low‐weight birth rate, were similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

The outcome of CMA is an important factor influencing parents' choice of whether to continue the pregnancy. Self‐healing rate of prenatal diagnosed CHD is high. The mortality and morbidity of fetuses with CHD following prenatal CMA testing are relatively low.
In‐situ preparation and electrochromic properties of TiO2/PTPA‐HTAN core‐shell nanocomposite film
Authors: Ouyang Mi , Dai Dacheng , Hu Xuming , Li Yuwen , Chen Zhangxin , Tao Bowen , Zhang Lina , Li Weijun , Dong Yujie , Bai Ru , Lv Xiaojing , Zhang Cheng
Published: December 2021

A new star‐shaped structure conjugated microporous polymers, poly (2,8,14‐tri[4‐diphenyl‐benzene]‐hexaazatrinaphthylene) (PTPA‐HATN), was designed and in‐situ electrochemically polymerized on the surfaces of FTO electrodes with a directional alignment TiO2 nanorod array to obtain TiO2/PTPA‐HATN core‐shell nanocomposite films. Compared with the PTPA‐HATN film, the TiO2/PTPA‐HATN composite film exhibits higher optical contrast and faster response time, with contrast of 57% at 783 nm, coloring time of 3.62 s and discoloring time of 2.55 s (43%, 4.63 s and 4.77 s for PTPA‐HATN film, respectively). After 400 cycles, the contrast of nanocomposite film decreased by 28%, while the PTPA‐HATN film basically lost its electrochromic properties. A simple three‐layer EC prototype device based on TiO2/PTPA‐HATN nanocomposite film constructed with hydrogel electrolyte clearly shows color changes at different voltages. On the one hand, the formation of core‐shell porous nanostructure of TiO2/PTPA‐HATN composite film provides a larger ion doping/de‐doping interface, shortening the average diffusion length of ions. On the other hand, the large indented polymer‐nanorods contact interface makes it difficult for the polymer to detach from the electrode, thus significantly improving the cyclic stability of the composite film.
Separation of Artifacts from Spin‐Torque Ferromagnetic Resonance Measurements of Spin‐Orbit Torque for the Low‐Symmetry Van der Waals Semi‐Metal ZrTe3
Authors: Cham Thow Min , Karimeddiny Saba , Gupta Vishakha , Mittelstaedt Joseph A. , Ralph Daniel C.
Published: December 2021

Spin‐orbit torques generated by exfoliated layers of the low‐symmetry semi‐metal ZrTe3 are measured using the spin‐torque ferromagnetic resonance (ST‐FMR) technique. When the ZrTe3 has a thickness greater than about 10 nm, artifacts due to spin pumping and/or resonant heating can cause the standard ST‐FMR analysis to overestimate the true magnitude of the torque efficiency by as much as a factor of 30, and to indicate incorrectly that the spin‐orbit torque depends strongly on the ZrTe3 layer thickness. Artifact‐free measurements can still be achieved over a substantial thickness range by the method developed recently to detect ST‐FMR signals in the Hall geometry as well as the longitudinal geometry. ZrTe3/Permalloy samples generate a conventional in‐plane anti‐damping spin torque efficiency = 0.014 ± 0.004, and an unconventional in‐plane field‐like torque efficiency = 0.003 ± 0.001. The out‐of‐plane anti‐damping torque is negligible. It is suggested that artifacts similarly interfere with the standard ST‐FMR analysis for other van der Waals samples thicker than about 10 nm.
Stabilization of random nonlinear systems subject to deception attacks
Authors: Feng Likang , Zhang Weihai , Wu Zhaojing
Published: December 2021

In this article, the stabilization problem of a class of random networked control nonlinear systems suffering from deception attacks is considered. First, an appropriate attack model described by the random impulsive nonlinear system is developed, and the discrete dynamics have multiple random impulsive intensity, whose type is determined by a Markov chain. Second, the criteria of noise‐to‐state exponential stability in the mth moment are given for the general random impulsive nonlinear systems based on the (mode‐dependent) average impulsive interval. Third, a state‐feedback controller is designed to stabilize the random networked control nonlinear system under deception attacks on the basis of LMIs method. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed theoretical results is verified by the application to the stabilization problem of the network unmanned ground vehicle systems subject to deception attacks and the effectiveness is verified by the simulation results.
A Photoorganizable Triple Shape Memory Polymer for Deployable Devices
Authors: Sun Jiahao , Peng Bo , Lu Yao , Zhang Xiao , Wei Jia , Zhu Chongyu , Yu Yanlei
Published: December 2021

Inspired by the action and healing process from living organisms, developing deployable devices using stimuli‐responsive materials, or “smart” deployable devices, is desired to realize remote‐controlled programmable deformation with additional in situ repair to perform multiple tasks while extending their service life in aerospace. In this work, a photoorganizable triple shape memory polymer (POTSMP) is reported, which is composed of an azobenzene‐containing thermoplastic polyurethane. Upon UV and visible illumination, this POTSMP performs arbitrary programming of two temporary shapes and precise and stepwise shape recovery, exhibiting various temporary shapes adapted to different aerospace applications. On the other hand, rapid light‐reconfiguration in seconds, including light‐reshaping and light‐welding, is achieved in response to UV irradiation, allowing in situ localized process and repair of permanent shape. Combining these photoorganizable operations, deformable devices with complex 2D/3D structures are facilely manufactured with no need of special molds. It is envisioned that this POTSMP can expand the potential of photoresponsive TSMPs in smart deployable devices.
Water‐Soluble Organic Dyes as Efficient Anode Interlayer Materials for PEDOT:PSS‐Free Inverted Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Matsumoto Taiga , Murakami Tatsuya , Schlüter Friederike , Murata Hideyuki , Vohra Varun , Rizzo Fabio
Published: December 2021

Solution‐processed inverted organic solar cells (OSCs) generally use poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) as hole selective anode interlayer (AIL). However, the acidic nature of PEDOT:PSS considerably accelerates the degradation dynamics of OSCs, which shortens the durability of these low‐cost photovoltaic devices. Small organic molecules are attracting growing interest as alternative AIL materials, but their solubility limited to toxic organic solvents hinders the production of environmentally friendly OSCs. Herein, the first inverted OSCs employing non‐PEDOT:PSS solution‐processed top small organic molecule AILs deposited from aqueous solution are reported. The investigated water‐soluble spirobifluorene (SBF) derivatives 1 and 2 show hole mobility (≈4 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 S−1) higher than PEDOT:PSS. Because of their nonacidic nature, the interlayers formed with derivatives 1 or 2 considerably delay the degradation of the top metal electrode compared to OSCs employing PEDOT:PSS interlayers. The PEDOT:PSS‐free OSC devices with inverted configuration with the water‐soluble SBF derivatives as AIL produce power conversion efficiencies above 5% with PTB7‐Th:ITIC active layers and above 8% with PBDB‐T‐2Cl:Y6 active layers, respectively, with an enhancement up to 28% compared to OSCs employing PEDOT:PSS. These results correspond to the highest reported values for PEDOT:PSS‐free small‐molecule inverted OSCs deposited from an aqueous solution.
Account of Structural, Theoretical, and Photovoltaic Properties of ABO3 Oxide Perovskites Photoanode‐Based Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Bhojanaa K. B. , Soundarya Mary A. , Shalini Devi K. S. , Pavithra N. , Pandikumar A.
Published: December 2021

In terms of addressing the rapid global energy demand while simultaneously suppressing important environmental issues from an economic aspect, dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) technology has emerged as a most viable option for traditional silicon‐based solar cell technology. In the DSSC, the photoanode takes precedence over other components. There have been numerous reviews of binary oxides‐based photoanodes to date. From the last decade, ternary oxides, particularly ABO3‐type perovskites, have gained popularity as DSSC photoanodes. Due to their excellent physiochemical properties, supply of excellent photovoltaic performance, and simple modification method by modifying the atomic composition of their constituents, ABO3 perovskites have firmly established themselves as innovative over the conventional photoanode materials for DSSC. The lack of a review based on ABO3 perovskites limits its further exploration. Furthermore, the theoretical means of a material is a prerequisite to designing efficient photoanode materials for DSSC. Taking these facts into an account, this review will focus on fundamental aspects of ABO3 perovskite materials, theoretical insights, and their potential application as photoanode materials in DSSCs. It is anticipated that this review pool will aid in gaining in‐depth knowledge about ABO3 perovskites by utilizing their experimental, theoretical, and photovoltaic aspects for future advancement.
‘Croydon Cat Killer’ mystery solved by vets
Authors: Mills Georgina
Published: December 2021

Georgina Mills reports on investigations by a team at the Royal Veterinary College into cat deaths in south London.