bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen Plasma Treatment to Enable Indium Oxide MESFET Devices
Authors: Schöppach Fabian , Splith Daniel , von Wenckstern Holger , Grundmann Marius
Published: August 2023

Metal‐semiconductor field‐effect transistor (MESFET) devices based on pulsed laser deposition (PLD) grown In2O3 thin films with on–off ratios exceeding 6 orders of magnitude and low sub‐threshold swing values close to the thermodynamic limit are reported. Oxygen plasma treatment and compensation doping with Mg are utilized to suppress the accumulation of electrons at the surface of In2O3, which is a major obstacle for its use as an active material in electronic devices. The influence of both methods is investigated on the electrical properties of thin films as determined by Hall effect measurements on samples of varying film thickness. Using the performance of vertical Schottky barrier diodes as a benchmark, fundamental plasma parameters such as input power and background gas pressure are optimized.
Partially Air‐Filled Skin‐Attachable Deformable Gasket with Negative Poisson's Ratio for Highly‐Efficient Stretchable Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Choi Hyekyoung , Min Bok‐Ki , Joo Sung‐Jae , Kim Bong‐Seo , Lee Kyoungho , Kang Hyelin , Sim Yeon Hyang , Yun Min Ju , Lee Dong Yoon , Cha Seung I.
Published: August 2023

Wearable thermoelectric generators (WTEGs) have relied on soft encapsulation materials typically used for the structural support of thermoelectric legs. Heat loss through the filler and low heat transfer via the mismatched contact with the skin causes a small temperature gradient between the human body (hot side) and the natural environment (cold side). Instead of using soft encapsulation materials, a partially air‐filled deformable gasket is purposed for leg support, achieving the thermal isolation of thermoelectric legs by preventing parasitic heat transfer. The WTEG comprising the deformable gasket exhibits a 30% larger temperature gradient than that with conventional encapsulant structures filled with soft materials. Additionally, the deformable gasket shows an auxetic metastructure owing to its negative Poisson's ratio, reversibly responding to changes in their environment, which is suitable for skin‐like stretchable wearable devices. The band type of WTEG with the optimized leg geometry and fill factor shows a power output of 2 uW cm−2 for eight pairs of thermocouples, a record‐high value among the stretchable TEGs obtained indoors at room temperature (23 °C) without wind. This approach paves the way for the efficient conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy and broadens potential applications for self‐powered wearable electronics.
Molecular‐scale hybrid membranes: Metal‐oxo cluster crosslinked benzimidazole‐linked polymer membranes for superior H2 purification
Authors: Guo Zhecheng , Cong Shenzhen , Luan Liping , Li Min , Luo Chenglian , Wang Caixia , Wang Zhi , Liu Xinlei
Published: August 2023

Hydrogen (H2) purification requires separation membranes with excellent performance and high stability. Here, a few nanometer‐sized Zr‐oxygen clusters (CP‐2) abundant in amino groups were incorporated in benzimidazole‐linked polymers (BILPs) by interfacial polymerization (IP) to fabricate molecular‐scale hybrid membranes for efficient H2/CO2 separation. The amino groups in CP‐2 engage in IP. The structure of the BILPs polymer chains is regulated and more H2 selective channels are created. The hybrid membranes provide an H2/CO2 selectivity of up to 75.2 (with a corresponding H2 permeance of 318 GPU) and a high H2 permeance of up to 1470 GPU (with a corresponding H2/CO2 selectivity of 23.6). In addition, the membranes exhibit satisfactory separation performance and durability under industry‐relevant conditions (573 K, 11 bar, or steam treatment).
Wearable Recognition System for Complex Motions Based on Hybrid Deep‐Learning‐Enhanced Strain Sensors
Authors: Nie Meng , Chen Pengfan , Wen Lei , Fan Jinwen , Zhang Qian , Yin Kuibo , Dou Guangbin
Published: August 2023

Wearable recognition systems based on flexible electronics present immense potential for applications in human–machine interfaces, medical care, soft robots, etc. However, they experience challenges in terms of the nonideal consistency and stability of flexible sensors, which are responsible for detecting physical signals from human motions. These challenges hinder the improvement of recognition precision and capability in the wearable systems. Furthermore, the computational consumption for the recognition increases as more sensors are used to extensively gather information for distinguishing between complex motions. Herein, a wearable recognition system based on deep‐learning‐enhanced strain sensors for distinguishing between the complex motions of the human body is presented. A strain sensor based on peak–valley microstructures is fabricated and packaged to improve consistency and stability. Moreover, a lightweight hybrid convolutional neural network long short‐term memory model is designed to lower the computational costs of the deep learning process. In particular, by designing Butterworth filtering and Z‐score normalization algorithms, the error in feature extraction caused by sensor signal fluctuation is reduced, thereby improving the recognition accuracy of the proposed wearable system to 95.72% for seven gait motions and 100% for four different continuous series of Tai Chi forms.
The heritability of blood‐based biomarkers related to risk of Alzheimer's disease in a population‐based sample of early old‐age men
Authors: Gillespie Nathan A. , Elman Jeremy A. , McKenzie Ruth E. , Tu Xin M. , Xian Hong , Reynolds Chandra A. , Panizzon Matthew S. , Lyons Michael J. , Eglit Graham M. L. , Neale Michael C. , Rissman Robert A. , Franz Carol , Kremen William S.
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

Despite their increased application, the heritability of Alzheimer's disease (AD)–related blood‐based biomarkers remains unexplored.

METHODS

Plasma amyloid beta 40 (Aβ40), Aβ42, the Aβ42/40 ratio, total tau (t‐tau), and neurofilament light (NfL) data came from 1035 men 60 to 73 years of age (μ = 67.0, SD = 2.6). Twin models were used to calculate heritability and the genetic and environmental correlations between them.

RESULTS

Additive genetics explained 44% to 52% of Aβ42, Aβ40, t‐tau, and NfL. The Aβ42/40 ratio was not heritable. Aβ40 and Aβ42 were genetically near identical (rg = 0.94). Both Aβ40 and Aβ42 were genetically correlated with NfL (rg = 0.35 to 0.38), but genetically unrelated to t‐tau.

DISCUSSION

Except for Aβ42/40, plasma biomarkers are heritable. Aβ40 and Aβ42 share mostly the same genetic influences, whereas genetic influences on plasma t‐tau and NfL are largely unique in early old‐age men. The absence of genetic associations between the Aβs and t‐tau is not consistent with the amyloid cascade hypothesis.
Potential Controllable Redox Couple for Mild and Efficient Lithium Recovery from Spent Batteries
Authors: Chang Xin , Fan Min , Yuan Boheng , Gu Chao‐Fan , He Wei‐Huan , Li Chen , Feng Xi‐Xi , Xin Sen , Meng Qinghai , Wan Li‐Jun , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: August 2023

The prosperity of the lithium‐ion battery market is dialectically accompanied by the depletion of corresponding resources and the accumulation of spent batteries. It is an urgent priority to develop green and efficient battery recycling strategies for helping ease resources and environmental pressures at the current stage. Here, we propose a mild and efficient lithium extracting strategy based on potential controllable redox couples. Active lithium in the spent battery without discharging is extracted using a series of tailored aprotic solutions comprised of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and ethers. This ensures a safe yet efficient recycling process with nearly ≈100 % lithium recovery. We further investigate the Li+‐electron concerted redox reactions and the effect of solvation structure on kinetics during the extraction, and broaden the applicability of the Li‐PAHs solution. This work can stimulate new inspiration for designing novel solutions to meet efficient and sustainable demands in recycling batteries.
A Chemoselective Polarity‐Mismatched Photocatalytic C(sp3)−C(sp2) Cross‐Coupling Enabled by Synergistic Boron Activation**
Authors: Brals Jeremy , McGuire Thomas M. , Watson Allan J. B.
Published: August 2023

We report the development of a C(sp3)−C(sp2) coupling reaction using styrene boronic acids and redox‐active esters under photoredox catalysis. The reaction proceeds through an unusual polarity‐mismatched radical addition mechanism that is orthogonal to established processes. Synergistic activation of the radical precursor and organoboron are critical mechanistic events. Activation of an N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) ester by coordination to boron enables electron transfer, with decomposition leading to a nucleofuge rebound, activating the organoboron to radical addition. The unique mechanism enables chemoselective coupling of styrene boronic acids in the presence of other alkene radical acceptors. The scope and limitations of the reaction, and a detailed mechanistic investigation are presented.
Interfacial Engineering for Efficient Low‐Temperature Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cai Weilun , Yang Tinghuan , Liu Chou , Wang Yajie , Wang Shiqiang , Du Yachao , Wu Nan , Huang Wenliang , Wang Shumei , Wang Zhichao , Chen Xin , Feng Jiangshan , Zhao Guangtao , Ding Zicheng , Pan Xu , Zou Pengchen , Yao Jianxi , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Zhao Kui
Published: August 2023

Photovoltaic technology with low weight, high specific power in cold environments, and compatibility with flexible fabrication is highly desired for near‐space vehicles and polar region applications. Herein, we demonstrate efficient low‐temperature flexible perovskite solar cells by improving the interfacial contact between electron‐transport layer (ETL) and perovskite layer. We find that the adsorbed oxygen active sites and oxygen vacancies of flexible tin oxide (SnO2) ETL layer can be effectively decreased by incorporating a trace amount of titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4). The effective defects elimination at the interfacial increases the electron mobility of flexible SnO2 layer, regulates band alignment at the perovskite/SnO2 interface, induces larger perovskite crystal growth, and improves charge collection efficiency in a complete solar cell. Correspondingly, the improved interfacial contact transforms into high‐performance solar cells under one‐sun illumination (AM 1.5G) with efficiencies up to 23.7 % at 218 K, which might open up a new era of application of this emerging flexible photovoltaic technology to low‐temperature environments such as near‐space and polar regions.
Does the Type of Surgical Headwear Worn in the OR Matter? A Review of Evidence and Opinions
Authors: Beesoon Sanjay , Sydora Beate C. , Klassen Tara , Baron Timothy , Robert Jill , Khadaroo Rachel , White Jonathan , Brindle Mary , Barker Lesley , Spruce Lisa
Published: August 2023

Proper surgical attire is essential in decreasing surgical site infections; however, the effectiveness of the different types of headwear is a controversial topic. We conducted a narrative review based on studies identified through a focused literature search to summarize and critically assess evidence and opinions on the most appropriate type of headwear for OR personnel. We included 48 articles: 17 original research studies and 31 non–peer‐reviewed articles of various types. Research published before 2014 mostly supports the complete coverage of all hair, which aligns with the 2015 AORN guidelines. However, more recent literature rebuts these guidelines and emphasizes the importance of clean headwear. Although earlier studies (published before 2017) lacked scientific rigor, later studies (published after 2017) have other various limitations, including missing data on compliance, surgery‐related techniques, and surgical attire other than headwear. The findings from this review highlight the importance of solid evidence‐based guidelines and expert collaboration.
SeBLOS2 knockout via CRISPR/Cas9 leads to the loss of larval integument coloration in Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zhao Jing , Jiang Yiping , Hoffmann Ary , Tan Yongan , Xiao Liubin
Published: August 2023

CRISPR/Cas9 technology is a precise and powerful tool for functionally exploring insect genes. The present study tested CRISPR/Cas9 as a way of undertaking effective gene mutagenesis in an important agricultural pest, the beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua. Based on a S. exigua transcriptome database, the entire complementary DNA sequence of SeBLOS2 encoding 140 amino acid residues was cloned. The gene was highly expressed in late larval stages (L3–L5). Using the CRISPR/Cas9 method, SeBLOS2 was knocked out by altering two sites in the coding region. This resulted in 70%–74% of the G0 generation (L4–L5) larvae displaying mosaic translucent integument. Four different mutations occurred at SeBLOS2‐specific target sites, as demonstrated by further polymerase chain reaction‐based genotypic analysis. Homozygote mutant L3 larvae were obtained in the G1 generation, with complete loss of white stripes and spots on their larval integument. These results demonstrate a crucial role of SeBLOS2 in integument pigmentation and suggest that the gene can act as a suitable nonlethal marker for functional research on genes in S. exigua and other Lepidopteran pests.
Projection of realistic three‐dimensional photogrammetry models using stereoscopic display: A technical note
Authors: Oliveira André de Sá Braga , Leonel Luciano César P. C. , LaHood Edward R. , Nguyen Bachtri T. , Ehtemami Anahid , Graepel Stephen P. , Link Michael J. , Pinheiro‐Neto Carlos D. , Lachman Nirusha , Morris Jonathan M. , Peris‐Celda Maria
Published: August 2023

The 3D stereoscopic technique consists in providing the illusional perception of depth of a given object using two different images mimicking how the right and left eyes capture the object. Both images are slightly different and when overlapped gives a three‐dimensional (3D) experience. Considering the limitations for establishing surgical laboratories and dissections courses in some educational institutions, techniques such as stereoscopy and photogrammetry seem to play an important role in neuroanatomy and neurosurgical education. The aim of this study was to describe how to combine and set up realistic models acquired with photogrammetry scans in 3D stereoscopic projections. Three donors, one dry skull, embalmed brain and head, were scanned using photogrammetry. The software used for displaying the final realistic 3D models (Blender, Amsterdam, the Netherlands) is a free software and allows stereoscopic projection without compromising the interactivity of each model. By default, the model was exported and immediately displayed as a red cyan 3D mode. The 3D projector used in the manuscript required a side‐by‐side 3D mode which was set up with simple commands on the software. The final stereoscopy projection offered depth perception and a visualization in 360° of each donor; this perception was noted especially when visualizing donors with different cavities and fossae. The combination of 3D techniques is of paramount importance for neuroanatomy education. Stereoscopic projections could provide a valuable tool for neuroanatomy instruction directed at clinical trainees and could be especially useful when access to laboratory‐based learning is limited.
Alkynyl‐protected Ag20Rh2 Nanocluster with Atomic Precision: Structure Analysis and Tri‐functionality Catalytic Application
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Leyi , Qin Lubing , Liu Yonggang , Tang Zhenghua
Published: August 2023

We report the overall structure and trifunctionality catalytic application of an atomically precise alloy nanocluster of Ag20Rh2(C≡C‐tBu)16(CF3CO2)6(H2O)2 (abbreviated as Ag20Rh2 hereafter). Ag20Rh2 has a twisted rod‐like structure, where a Ag4@Rh2 kernel is connected by two twisted Ag8 cubes on two sides. Ag20Rh2 is a superatomic cluster with four free valence electrons, and it has characteristic absorbance feature. Interestingly, Ag20Rh2 exhibited superior catalytic performance than the larger AgRh nanoparticle counterparts in electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), reduction of 4‐nitrophenol, and the methyl orange degradation reaction. Such intriguing catalytic properties are attributed to the more exposed active sites from the ultrasmall nanoclusters than relatively large nanoparticles. This study not only enriches the family member of alkynyl‐protected AgRh nanoclusters with atomic precision, but also highlights the great advantages of employing nanoclusters as efficient catalysts for multiple functionalities.
Teaching contingent vocal imitation of infants using Cool versus Not Cool™: A brief asynchronous responsive caregiving training
Authors: Hickey Jill , Arthur Shannon M. , Solomon Scott L. , Leaf Justin B.
Published: August 2023

Global public health organizations such as The World Health Organization and United Nations Children's Fund have prioritized environmental support for infants in their first 1000 days of life, including interventions that target early childhood development (ECD) outcomes. Responsive caregiving practices and interventions that support parents in engaging in them have a positive effect on ECD outcomes. Behavioral research has identified a number of specific caregiver responses that influence infants' early language development, including contingent vocal imitation. This study examined the effects of a brief, asynchronous online parent training using the Cool versus Not Cool™ procedure to teach two mothers and one father to imitate their infants' vocalizations in their natural home settings. All three parents increased the percentage of contingent vocalizations with their infants and positive changes in vocal behavior were observed for all the three infants.
Examining the interactions among smart supply chains and carbon reduction strategies: To attain carbon neutrality
Authors: Patil Anchal , Shardeo Vipulesh , Dwivedi Ashish , Moktadir Md. Abdul , Bag Surajit
Published: August 2023

Rapid industrialization and global supply chains have magnified industrial activities' carbon footprint, resulting in environmental hazards. Several countries have magnified their efforts to reach carbon neutrality goals. The increased attention to carbon‐neutral goals has been enabled by United Nations (UN) calls for a carbon‐neutral economy. In this context, supply chains will have greater responsibilities to reduce the network's carbon footprint. To achieve carbon neutrality goals, decision‐makers must be well‐informed and facilitated with suitable theoretical frameworks. In literature, the adoption of intelligent technologies is suggested to construct efficient and smart supply chains. However, there are uncertainties regarding the impact of this transformation on the carbon neutrality goal. The present study caters to the uncertainties by discussing its potential impact on carbon neutrality goals and how to use adopted technologies to achieve the same. A list of 11 potential strategies is identified and modelled to provide a strategic roadmap for smart supply chains' adoption. The proposed framework aims to facilitate carbon neutrality goals. The findings indicate that decision‐makers must pay significant attention to circular economy practices. Additionally, green transportation is an impactful area with significant potential to support carbon neutrality goals. Critical insights have been extracted regarding stakeholders' training and process innovation. The study findings can help decision‐makers achieve carbon neutrality goals.
Buyer–supplier partnerships and circular economy performance in food supply chains: Serial mediation by commitment contract and innovation performance
Authors: Bag Surajit , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir , Srivastava Gautam , Kilbourn Peter , Mishra Nishikant
Published: August 2023

The study investigates the impact of buyer–supplier partnerships on the performance of the circular economy (CE) in the food supply chain (FSC). Then, it also examines the effect of commitment contracts and innovation on the performance of the FSC. The research model is developed using behavioural economics concepts and collaborative theory. Furthermore, five research hypotheses are tested using samples from food manufacturers and other related supply chain partners. Covariance‐based structural equation modelling technique is used in this study, and necessary tests were done to ensure the high quality of findings. Buyer–supplier partnerships demonstrate both direct and indirect effects on the CE performance in FSC. The findings supported the serial mediation effect wherein buyer–supplier partnerships are found to exert their impact on the CE in FSC through commitment contracts and innovation performance in a successive way. The uniqueness of this study lies in the use of behavioural economics concepts to enhance CE performance. The study advances knowledge of commitment contracts by indicating whether and how it connects to CE performance results.
Bird's eye view of augmented reality and applications for education and training: A survey of surveys and reviews
Authors: Cruz Armando , Paredes Hugo , Martins Paulo
Published: August 2023

Augmented reality (AR) is a field of knowledge being developed since the middle of the last century. Its use has been spreading because of its usefulness, but more recently because of mobile platforms being widespread and accessible. AR has been applied in several fields of activity, and also in the field of Education and Training, because AR has several advantages over other teaching methods. In this paper, we search and analyze surveys and reviews of AR to present a brief history and its definition. We also present a classification of our sample under a scheme we developed in past work, and present also examples of technologies and applications of AR in each field. Finally, we do a deeper analysis over the publications of Education and Training, advantages and issues of AR in this field, and some research trends.
Automated generation and correction of diagram‐based exercises for Moodle
Authors: Gómez‐Abajo Pablo , Guerra Esther , de Lara Juan
Published: August 2023

One of the most time‐consuming task for teachers is creating and correcting exercises to evaluate students. This is normally performed by hand, which incurs high time costs and is error‐prone. A way to alleviate this problem is to provide an assistant tool that automates such tasks. In the case of exercises based on diagrams, they can be represented as models to enable their automated model‐based generation for any target environment, like web or mobile applications, or learning platforms like Moodle. In this paper, we propose an automated process for synthesizing five types of diagram‐based exercises for the
Moodle platform. Being model‐based, our solution is domain‐agnostic (i.e., it can be applied to arbitrary domains like automata, electronics, or software design). We report on its use within a university course on automata theory, as well as evaluations of generality, effectiveness and efficiency, illustrating the benefits of our approach.
Effects of Replacing a Central Glycine Residue in GLP‐1 on Receptor Affinity and Signaling Profile
Authors: Brown Kyle A. , Gellman Samuel H.
Published: August 2023

Agonists of the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) are used to treat diabetes and obesity. Cryo‐EM structures indicate that GLP‐1 is completely α‐helical when bound to the GLP‐1R. The mature form of this hormone, GLP‐1(7‐36), contains a glycine residue near the center (Gly22). Since glycine has the second‐lowest α‐helix propensity among the proteinogenic α‐amino acid residues, and Gly22 does not appear to make direct contact with the receptor, we were motivated to explore the impact on agonist activity of altering the α‐helix propensity at this position. We examined GLP‐1 analogues in which Gly22 was replaced with L‐Ala, D‐Ala, or β‐amino acid residues with varying helix propensities. The results suggest that the receptor is reasonably tolerant of variations in helix propensity, and that the functional receptor‐agonist complex may comprise a conformational spectrum rather than a single fixed structure.
Dynamic Structural Evolution of CeO2 in CuO−CeO2 Catalyst Revealed by In Situ Spectroscopy
Authors: Wu Mei‐Yao , Wang Bei‐Bei , Wang Wei‐Wei , Yang Fan , Jia Chun‐Jiang
Published: August 2023

The oxides and active metals at the interface synergistically activate reactants and thus promote the reaction, but the interface structure often changes dynamically during the reaction. In the conventional supported catalysts, the metals at the interface have been extensively studied, while the structural evolution of oxides is often overlooked due to the interference of the bulk phase signal. In this work, CeO2−CuO inverse catalysts are designed to reveal the dynamic structure evolution of CeO2 in the CeO2−CuO system during the water gas shift (WGS) reaction by in situ Raman, in situ XRD, quasi in situ XPS, and near ambient pressure XPS (NAP‐XPS). CeO2 is partially concealed in the CuO phase in the un‐pretreated catalyst and gradually exposed to the surface, forming an inverse CeOx/Cu structure during the reducing process. This structure exhibits a high catalytic activity in the WGS reaction and remains durable under the reductive conditions. When the inverse CeOx/Cu structure is exposed to the non‐redox conditions, the reconfiguration of the reduced oxide is observed which is caused by the oxygen migration of CeO2. This work explores the structure evolution of CeO2 in CeO2−CuO inverse catalyst under different conditions by in situ characterization technique and provides a reference for monitoring the dynamic changes of oxide structure.
In situ observation of the electrochemical behavior of Li–CO2/O2 batteries in an environmental transmission electron microscope
Authors: Jia Peng , Guo Yunna , Chen Dongliang , Yao Jingming , Zhang Xuedong , Lu Jianguo , Qiao Yuqing , Zhang Liqiang
Published: August 2023

Li–CO2/O2 batteries, a promising energy storage technology, not only provide ultrahigh discharge capacity but also capture CO2 and turn it into renewable energy. Their electrochemical reaction pathways' ambiguity, however, creates a hurdle for their practical application. This study used copper selenide (CuSe) nanosheets as the air cathode medium in an environmental transmission electron microscope to in situ study Li–CO2/O2 (mix CO2 as well as O2 at a volume ratio of 1:1) and Li–O2 batteries as well as Li–CO2 batteries. Primary discharge reactions take place successively in the Li–CO2/O2–CuSe nanobattery: (I) 4Li+ + O2 + 4e− → 2Li2O; (II) Li2O + CO2 → Li2CO3. The charge reaction proceeded via (III) 2Li2CO3 → 4Li+ + 2CO2 + O2 + 4e−. However, Li–O2 and Li–CO2 nanobatteries showed poor cycling stability, suggesting the difficulty in the direct decomposition of the discharge product. The fluctuations of the Li–CO2/O2 battery's electrochemistry were also shown to depend heavily on O2. The CuSe‐based Li–CO2/O2 battery showed exceptional electrochemical performance. The Li–CO2/O2 battery offered a discharge capacity apex of 15,492 mAh g−1 and stable cycling 60 times at 100 mA g−1. Our research offers crucial insight into the electrochemical behavior of Li–CO2/O2, Li–O2, and Li–CO2 nanobatteries, which may help the creation of high‐performance Li–CO2/O2 batteries for energy storage applications.
Achiral 2‐pyridone and 4‐aminopyridine act as chiral inducers of asymmetric autocatalysis with amplification of enantiomeric excess via the formation of chiral crystals
Authors: Matsumoto Arimasa , Tateishi Daisuke , Nakajima Tsuyoshi , Kurosaki Shiori , Ogawa Tomohiro , Kawasaki Tsuneomi , Soai Kenso
Published: August 2023

Enantiomorphous crystals of achiral 2‐pyridone and 4‐aminopyridine served as sources of chirality, to induce the asymmetric autocatalysis of 5‐pyrimidyl alkanol during the asymmetric addition of diisopropylzinc to the corresponding pyrimidine‐5‐carbaldehyde, that is, the Soai reaction. Following a significant amplification of enantiomeric excess through asymmetric autocatalysis, highly enantioenriched 5‐pyrimidyl alkanol could be synthesized with their corresponding absolute configurations to those of chiral crystals of 2‐pyridone and 4‐aminopyridine.
Left ventricular longitudinal strain in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus is independently associated with glycated hemoglobin level
Authors: Gao Jinmei , Xu Min , Gong Mingxia , Jiang Shu , Yang Zhenni , Jiang Xiaohong , Chen Ming
Published: August 2023

Objective

Left ventricular and left atrial strain are sensitive and reliable markers for evaluating cardiac function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with interactions between the two parameters. The present study aimed to analyze the correlation between global longitudinal strain (GLS) of the left ventricle and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients with T2DM.

Methods

A total of 292 patients clinically diagnosed with T2DM were selected and divided into three groups according to HbA1c level. The strains of the left atrium and left ventricle in the three groups of T2DM patients with different HbA1c levels were compared. Univariate and multivariate (including left atrial functional indicators) linear regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between strain indicators and HbA1c levels. Generalized additive models were used to examine the relationship between strain indicators and HbA1c levels.

Results

There were significant differences among the three groups in terms of age, microalbuminuria, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1c level, and left atrial conduit longitudinal strain (LAScd) and GLS (p < .05). Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses revealed that, as HbA1c levels increased, the absolute value of GLS gradually decreased (p < .001). Curve fitting revealed a positive correlation between HbA1c level and GLS, which was not affected by left atrial function.

Conclusion

Left ventricular GLS was independently correlated with HbA1c level in patients with T2DM and was not affected by left atrial function.
Single‐agent belantamab mafodotin in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: Final analysis of the DREAMM‐2 trial
Authors: Nooka Ajay K. , Cohen Adam D. , Lee Hans C. , Badros Ashraf , Suvannasankha Attaya , Callander Natalie , Abdallah Al‐Ola , Trudel Suzanne , Chari Ajai , Libby Edward N. , Chaudhry Maria , Hultcrantz Malin , Kortüm K. Martin , Popat Rakesh , Sborov Douglas , Hakim Shawn , Lewis Eric , Gorsh Boris , Bhushan Bharat , McKeown Astrid , Gupta Ira , Opalinska Joanna , Richardson Paul G. , Lonial Sagar
Published: August 2023

Background

Patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) have a high unmet treatment need. Belantamab mafodotin (belamaf), a first‐in‐class, B‐cell maturation antigen‐binding antibody‐drug conjugate, eliminates myeloma cells through direct cell killing and an anti‐myeloma immune response.

Methods

DREAMM‐2 (NCT03525678) was a phase 2, two‐arm, open‐label trial in patients with heavily pretreated RRMM who had three or more prior therapies, were refractory to an immunomodulatory agent and a proteasome inhibitor, and refractory or intolerant to an anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody. Belamaf was given at 2.5 or 3.4 mg/kg every 3 weeks. The primary end point was overall response rate (ORR); secondary end points included progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), safety, ocular symptoms, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL).

Results

This final analysis (cutoff date, March 31, 2022), N = 223, with median follow‐up of 12.5 and 13.8 months, demonstrated an ORR of 32% and 35%, median PFS of 2.8 and 3.9 months, and median OS of 15.3 and 14.0 months in the 2.5 mg/kg and 3.4 mg/kg cohorts, respectively. Median duration of response was 12.5 and 6.2 months. No new safety signals were observed; the most common Grade 3 and 4 adverse events were keratopathy (29% vs. 25%), thrombocytopenia (22% vs. 29%), and anemia (21% vs. 28%). HRQOL outcomes suggest that overall global health status/quality of life, physical and role functioning, and overall disease symptoms were maintained or improved during treatment.

Conclusions

This final analysis of DREAMM‐2 confirms that in patients with triple‐class refractory RRMM, single‐agent belamaf results in durable and clinically meaningful responses with a manageable safety profile.
Development of 4‐Pyridoxic Acid PBPK Model to Support Biomarker‐Informed Evaluation of OAT1/3 Inhibition and Effect of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Tan Shawn Pei Feng , Willemin Marie‐Emilie , Snoeys Jan , Shen Hong , Rostami‐Hodjegan Amin , Scotcher Daniel , Galetin Aleksandra
Published: August 2023

Monitoring endogenous biomarkers is increasingly used to evaluate transporter‐mediated drug–drug interactions (DDIs) in early drug development and may be applied to elucidate changes in transporter activity in disease. 4‐pyridoxic acid (PDA) has been identified as the most sensitive plasma endogenous biomarker of renal organic anion transporters (OAT1/3). Increase in PDA baseline concentrations was observed after administration of probenecid, a strong clinical inhibitor of OAT1/3 and also in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this study was to develop and verify a physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of PDA, to predict the magnitude of probenecid DDI and predict the CKD‐related changes in PDA baseline. The PBPK model for PDA was first developed in healthy population, building on from previous population pharmacokinetic modeling, and incorporating a mechanistic kidney model to consider OAT1/3‐mediated renal secretion. Probenecid PBPK model was adapted from the Simcyp database and re‐verified to capture its dose‐dependent pharmacokinetics (n = 9 studies). The PBPK model successfully predicted the PDA plasma concentrations, area under the curve, and renal clearance in healthy subjects at baseline and after single/multiple probenecid doses. Prospective simulations in severe CKD predicted successfully the increase in PDA plasma concentration relative to healthy (within 2‐fold of observed data) after accounting for 60% increase in fraction unbound in plasma and additional 50% decline in OAT1/3 activity beyond the decrease in glomerular filtration rate. The verified PDA PBPK model supports future robust evaluation of OAT1/3 DDI in drug development and increases our confidence in predicting exposure and renal secretion in patients with CKD.
Characterization of finger millet global germplasm diversity panel for grain nutrients content for utilization in biofortification breeding
Authors: Backiyalakshmi Chinnadurai , Babu Chakrapani , Deshpande Santosh , Govindaraj Mahalingam , Gupta Rajeev , Sudhagar Rajaprakasam , Naresh Dagunapur , Anitha Seetha , Peerzada Ovais , Sajja Sobhan , Singh Kuldeep , Vetriventhan Mani
Published: August 2023

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.) is a versatile dryland crop known for its high calcium (Ca) content. Estimating the variability for grain nutrients in diverse germplasm is important for developing biofortified cultivars. A finger millet diversity panel consisting of 310 accessions and four controls was evaluated in two rainy seasons at International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics, Hyderabad, India, to assess variability for grain nutrient content and its association with agronomic traits and identify promising accessions. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission electrometry was used to analyze grain nutrients content, and the protein content was estimated from the total nitrogen content of the finger millet grains using the sulfuric acid–selenium digestion method. Highly significant variability was found for all the grain nutrients and was significantly influenced by the genotype, environment, and their interactions. Grain nutrients showed a significant relationship between the 2 years (R2 = 0.06 for phosphorus to 0.60 for Ca, p ≥ 0.001). A nonsignificant correlation between grain yield and Ca was noticed among accessions within landraces, breeding lines, and accessions from Asia, while this correlation was significantly negative among accessions from Africa and in the entire set. The estimated percent daily values indicated that the consumption of 100 g of finger millet grains could potentially contribute to the recommended dietary allowance of up to 49% Ca, 52% magnesium, 23% protein, 23% iron, and 26% zinc. This study provides valuable insights into the variability in the finger millet germplasm, and identified grain nutrient dense accessions, that could be used in finger millet improvement to develop the biofortified cultivars.
Multifunctional Self‐Assembled Ionic Liquid Modified Rigid and Flexible Substrates for Efficient Simple‐Structured Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Huang Shuai , Dong Guifang , Zhu Liangliang , Guan Baolu
Published: August 2023

The advancement of electron transport layer (ETL)‐free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is crucial for the commercialization of PSCs. At present, the slow electron extraction and significant carrier recombination, related to the energy‐level alignment at the FTO/perovskite interface, restrict the performance of ETL‐free PSCs. The facile modification of bottom electrodes is pivotal for tackling these issues and stimulating the photovoltaic potential of perovskite. Herein, a cost‐competitive and neoteric 1‐hydroxyethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride, [HOEtMIM]Cl, ionic liquid is employed to modify the surface of rigid and flexible electrodes, and thus enable an energetically well‐aligned interface with perovskite layer via the electric dipole effects. The resulting barrier‐free FTO/perovskite contact can tremendously ameliorate the electron extraction and collection, with mitigated nonradiative interfacial carrier recombination loss. Additionally, the lone pair on the nitrogen of the imidazole group passivates the surface defects of perovskite layers, and the chloride anion plays a role in the crystallinity improvement of perovskite. Leveraged by the [HOEtMIM]Cl modification, the resulting ETL‐free rigid and flexible devices deliver an outstanding power conversion efficiency of 19.60 % and 15.57 %, along with the ameliorated hysteresis and long‐term tenability. This finding highlights the drastic potential of the engineered [HOEtMIM]Cl in manufacturing stable and high‐performance ETL‐free PSCs for their scaled‐up production.
The potential molecularly therapy target to MYCN‐amplificated neuroblastoma
Authors: Jiang Susu , Zhang Xinxin , Chang Jiaming , Zhu Jinhong , Yang Wenhan , He Jing
Published: August 2023

Neuroblastoma (NB) is an embryonal deadly cancer in childhood driven by MYC or MYCN‐driven oncogenic signaling. The amplification of MYCN leads to malignant progression of NB and poor prognosis. Traditional chemotherapy is still a standard treatment for NB. Most of the cytostatic drugs take function in anti‐neuroblastoma. However, children with NB exhibit different clinical outcome variability and biological characteristics compared to adult patients. Given this, it is an urgent need to explore novel, safer and more efficacious treatments.
A case of incorrect evaluation of intestinal patency by early dissolution of a patency capsule
Authors: Omori Teppei , Hara Toshifumi , Murasugi Shun , Kambayashi Harutaka , Sasaki Yu , Koroku Miki , Yonezawa Maria , Morishita Keiichi , Nakamura Shinichi , Tokushige Katsutoshi
Published: August 2023

A 60‐year‐old man presented with a suspected small intestinal tumor on positron‐emission tomography‐computed tomography. Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) was planned for close examination of the small intestine. To avoid retention of the SBCE due to strictures, a patency capsule (PC) was first used to evaluate patency. However, PC discharge was not visually confirmed during the 24‐h period. No obvious PC was observed on plain abdominal radiography performed in the standing position. The patient underwent SBCE, assuming that the PC had been shed inconspicuously. SBCE revealed a neoplastic lesion with stenosis at a site thought to be the upper small intestine and remained stagnant at the same site for the duration of the battery. In addition, in the SBCE image, a PC shell was captured in the intestinal tract on the oral side of the stenosis. When the pre‐SBCE plain abdominal radiograph was enlarged to confirm the details, PC was observed in the lateral and decubitus views as a dissolved shell only. To the best of our knowledge, no previous report has described the complete dissolution of a PC leaving only its shell during a 30‐hour patency evaluation period. This case illustrates that, in the absence of visual confirmation of a PC discharge, PC may have remained in the body due to premature dissolution. Additional examinations or plain X‐ray imaging should be performed to confirm this, with no preconceived notions that the PC will not dissolve within 30 hours of administration.
Navigating the transition from student to employee under disability law
Authors: Fitzgerald Kelly Hawk
Published: August 2023

Navigating from elementary education to higher education and onto employment in the United States charts the typical person with a disability through at least two major sets of disability laws. For the unprepared student, many of the new stops along their path can feel like a foreign land, where the practice of requesting an accommodation and even occasionally the definition of disability itself differs from the stop before. Disability service providers can provide a roadmap for these transitions by helping students to build the skills needed to advocate for themselves.
Assessment of atmospheric solids analysis probe as a tool for the rapid determination of drug purity
Authors: Mathias Simone , Burns Daniel , Hambidge Tabatha , McCullough Bryan J. , Hopley Chris J. , Douce David , Sage Ashley , Sears Patrick
Published: August 2023

The ability to determine the purity (% controlled compound) of drug‐of‐abuse samples is necessary for public health and law enforcement. Here, we describe the assessment of atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) for the rapid determination of drug purity for a set of formulated pharmaceuticals, chosen due to their availability, uncontrolled status and consistency. Paracetamol and loratadine were used as models of high and low purity compounds being ~90% and ~10% active ingredient, respectively. Individual tablets were ground up and diluted in an internal standard solution. The resulting samples were analysed by ASAP coupled to a Waters QDa mass spectrometer followed by confirmatory testing by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The inclusion of a non‐matched internal standard (quinine) improved linearity and repeatability of drug analysis by ASAP‐MS. Levels of drug purity using formulated pharmaceutical tablets were found to be highly comparable with results produced by the ‘gold standard’ LC–MS/MS technique. Rapid determination of drug purity is therefore possible with ASAP‐MS for highly concentrated samples with minimal sample preparation. It may be possible to use this deployable system to determine drug purity outside of a laboratory setting.
Larval density in the invasive Drosophila suzukii: Immediate and delayed effects on life‐history traits
Authors: Reyes‐Ramírez Alicia , Belgaidi Zaïnab , Gibert Patricia , Pommier Thomas , Siberchicot Aurélie , Mouton Laurence , Desouhant Emmanuel
Published: August 2023

The effects of density are key in determining population dynamics, since they can positively or negatively affect the fitness of individuals. These effects have great relevance for polyphagous insects for which immature stages develop within a single site of finite feeding resources. Drosophila suzukii is a crop pest that induces severe economic losses for agricultural production; however, little is known about the effects of density on its life‐history traits. In the present study, we (i) investigated the egg distribution resulting from females' egg‐laying strategy and (ii) tested the immediate (on immatures) and delayed (on adults) effects of larval density on emergence rate, development time, potential fecundity, and adult size. The density used varied in a range between 1 and 50 larvae. We showed that 44.27% of the blueberries used for the oviposition assay contained between 1 and 11 eggs in aggregates. The high experimental density (50 larvae) has no immediate effect in the emergence rate but has effect on larval developmental time. This trait was involved in a trade‐off with adult life‐history traits: The time of larval development was reduced as larval density increased, but smaller and less fertile females were produced. Our results clearly highlight the consequences of larval crowding on the juveniles and adults of this fly.
Identifying drivers of population dynamics for a stream breeding amphibian using time series of egg mass counts
Authors: Rose Jonathan P. , Kupferberg Sarah J. , Peek Ryan A. , Ashton Don , Bettaso James B. , Bobzien Steve , Bourque Ryan M. , Breedveld Koen G. H. , Catenazzi Alessandro , Drennan Joseph E. , Gonsolin Earl , Grefsrud Marcia , Herman Andrea E. , House Matthew R. , Kluber Matt R. , Lind Amy J. , Marlow Karla R. , Striegle Alan , van Hattem Michael , Wheeler Clara A. , Wilcox Jeffery T. , Wiseman Kevin D. , Halstead Brian J.
Published: August 2023

The decline in amphibian populations is one of the starkest examples of the biodiversity crisis. For stream breeding amphibians, alterations to natural flow regimes by dams, water diversions, and climate change have been implicated in declines and extirpations. Identifying drivers of amphibian declines requires long time series of abundance data because amphibian populations can exhibit high natural variability. Multiple population viability analysis (MPVA) models integrate abundance data and share information from different populations to estimate how environmental factors influence population growth. Flow alteration has been linked to declines and extirpations in the Foothill Yellow‐legged Frog (Rana boylii), a stream breeding amphibian native to California and Oregon. To date, no study has jointly analyzed abundance data from populations throughout the range of R. boylii in an MPVA model. We compiled time series of egg mass counts (an index of adult female abundance) from R. boylii populations in 36 focal streams and fit an MPVA model to quantify how streamflow metrics, stream temperature, and surrounding land cover affect population growth. We found population growth was positively related to stream temperature and was higher in the years following a wet year with high total annual streamflow. Density dependence was weakest (i.e., carrying capacity was highest) for streams with high seasonality of streamflow and intermediate rates of change in streamflow during spring. Our results highlight how altered streamflow can further increase the risk of decline for R. boylii populations. Managing stream conditions to better match natural flow and thermal regimes would benefit the conservation of R. boylii populations.