bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental study of metal‐oxide nanoparticles on the thermal properties of erythritol for thermal energy storage
Authors: Zhou Hao , Lv Laiquan , Ji Mengting , Zhang Yize , Cheng Fangzheng , Cen Kefa
Published: February 2022

Erythritol has attracted wide attention due to high latent heat of 297.2 kJ/kg and excellent chemical stability as a medium‐ to low‐temperature thermal energy storage (TES) material. However, low thermal conductivity leads to extended charging and discharging time and severely affects its large‐scale application. In this article, three cheap nanoparticles (CuO, Al2O3, and Fe2O3) and triethanolamine (TEA) were used as heat transfer enhancers and dispersant to improve the TES performance of erythritol. Sedimentation of nanoparticles in erythritol indicates that TEA is an effective dispersant in erythritol for three kinds of nanoparticles. The experimental results show that the thermal conductivity increased from 0.671 W/(m·K) of erythritol to 0.722 W/(m·K) and 0.761 W/(m·K) of 1.5 wt% CuO and Fe2O3 nano‐enhanced phase change materials (NePCMs), respectively. Based on the DSC results, the melting temperature and heat of fusion of NePCMs stayed stable with nanoparticles but increased significantly after adding TEA. Furthermore, the charging/discharging cyclic behaviors of NePCMs were tested in the cycle test platform. During the cycle test, the melting time of 1.5 wt% CuO NePCM decreased from 657.9 s for pure erythritol to 615.8 s but increased to 757 s and 680.6 s for 1.5 wt% Al2O3 and 1.5 wt% Fe2O3 NePCMs. The solidification time decreased from 311.2 s for erythritol to 179.3 s, 198.5 s, and 132.4 s for 1.5 wt% CuO, 1.5 wt% Al2O3, and 1.5 wt% Fe2O3 NePCMs. Interestingly, the supercooling degree of NePCMs we got from the test was much lower than that from the DSC curves, indicating that the supercooling is related to the sample size. These results testify that CuO and Fe2O3 nanoparticles can improve the thermal conductivity of erythritol effectively.
Synthesis of eugenol‐based monomers for sustainable epoxy thermoplastic polymers
Authors: Kouznetsov Vladimir V. , Vargas Méndez Leonor Y.
Published: February 2022

New developments in thermosets based on bioproducts are gaining significance due to the importance of replacing thermosets and their monomers, traditionally obtained from petrochemical processes, with biobased thermosets prepared from biomass. In the context of new BPA/DGEBA replacements with both enhanced performance and reduced toxicity and the development of innovative biobased thermosetting resins, the conversion of plant biomass, especially natural phenols, into useful polymeric materials is believed to have considerable environmental and economic value. Eugenols are receiving encouraging interest, not only due to their sourcing but also due to their structure and chemical properties, which could enhance the physical characteristics of thermosetting materials, and which could reduce their toxic effects on the environment and human health. The present review mainly focuses on the utilization of eugenol for the synthesis of biobased epoxy and its thermosetting resins, describing synthetic details of new designs for eugenol‐based monomer and/or additive component preparation that are conducive to the formation of eugenol‐containing polymeric materials. Synthetic methods for eugenol‐based monomers are classified according to the principles of green chemistry and are divided into three large groups: single reactions, consecutive reactions, and multicomponent reactions. Outstanding physical characteristics of the formulated eugenol‐based thermosetting epoxy materials are also described.
Subgroup formation in human–robot teams: A multi‐study mixed‐method approach with implications for theory and practice
Authors: You Sangseok , Robert Lionel P.
Published: February 2022

Human–robot teams represent a challenging work application of artificial intelligence (AI). Building strong emotional bonds with robots is one solution to promoting teamwork in such teams, but does this come at a cost in the form of subgroups? Subgroups—smaller divisions within teams—in all human teams can undermine teamwork. Despite the importance of this question, it has received little attention. We employed a mixed‐methods approach by conducting a lab experiment and a qualitative online survey. We (a) examined the formation and impact of subgroups in human–robot teams and (b) obtained insights from workers currently adapting to robots in the workplace on mitigating impacts of subgroups. The experimental study (Study 1) with 44 human–robot teams found that robot identification (RID) and team identification (TID) are associated with increases and decreases in the likelihood of a subgroup formation, respectively. RID and TID moderated the impacts of subgroups on teamwork quality and subsequent performance in human–robot teams. Study 2 was a qualitative study with 112 managers and employees who worked collaboratively with robots. We derived practical insights from this study that help situate and translate what was learned in Study 1 into actual work practices.
Rebirth of the translational machinery: The importance of recycling ribosomes
Authors: Young David J. , Guydosh Nicholas R.
Published: February 2022

Translation of the genetic code occurs in a cycle where ribosomes engage mRNAs, synthesize protein, and then disengage in order to repeat the process again. The final part of this process—ribosome recycling, where ribosomes dissociate from mRNAs—involves a complex molecular choreography of specific protein factors to remove the large and small subunits of the ribosome in a coordinated fashion. Errors in this process can lead to the accumulation of ribosomes at stop codons or translation of downstream open reading frames (ORFs). Ribosome recycling is also critical when a ribosome stalls during the elongation phase of translation and must be rescued to allow continued translation of the mRNA. Here we discuss the molecular interactions that drive ribosome recycling, and their regulation in the cell. We also examine the consequences of inefficient recycling with regards to disease, and its functional roles in synthesis of novel peptides, regulation of gene expression, and control of mRNA‐associated proteins. Alterations in ribosome recycling efficiency have the potential to impact many cellular functions but additional work is needed to understand how this regulatory power is utilized.
Disease mapping method comparing the spatial distribution of a disease with a control disease
Authors: Petrof Oana , Neyens Thomas , Vranckx Maren , Nuyts Valerie , Nemery Benoit , Nackaerts Kristiaan , Faes Christel
Published: February 2022

Small‐area methods are being used in spatial epidemiology to understand the effect of location on health and detect areas where the risk of a disease is significantly elevated. Disease mapping models relate the observed number of cases to an expected number of cases per area. Expected numbers are often calculated by internal standardization, which requires both accurate population numbers and disease rates per gender and/or age group. However, confidentiality issues or the absence of high‐quality information about the characteristics of a population‐at‐risk can hamper those calculations. Based on methods in point process analysis for situations without accurate population data, we propose the use of a case‐control approach in the context of lattice data, in which an unrelated, spatially unstructured disease is used as a control disease. We correct for the uncertainty in the estimation of the expected values, which arises by using the control‐disease's observed number of cases as a representation of a fraction of the total population. We apply our methods to a Belgian study of mesothelioma risk, where pancreatic cancer serves as the control disease. The analysis results are in close agreement with those coming from traditional disease mapping models based on internally standardized expected counts. The simulation study results confirm our findings for different spatial structures. We show that the proposed method can adequately address the problem of inaccurate or unavailable population data in disease mapping analysis.
Causes of mortality in elderly UICC stage III colon cancer (CC) patients––Tumor‐related death and competing risks from the German AIO colorectal study group Colopredict Plus (CPP) registry
Authors: Nöpel‐Dünnebacke Stefanie , Jütte Hendrick , Denz Robin , Feder Inke Sabine , Kraeft Anna‐Lena , Lugnier Celine , Teschendorf Christian , Collette Daniela , Böhner Hinrich , Engel Lars , Mueller Lothar , Hartmann Frank , Kaiser Ulrich , Bruch Harald‐Robert , Hollerbach Stephan , Arnold Dirk , Timmesfeld Nina , Tannapfel Andrea , Reinacher‐Schick Anke
Published: February 2022

Background

Colon cancer (CC) is a disease of elderly patients (pts.) with a median age of 73 years (yrs.). Lack of data about the effects of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) is caused by underrepresentation of this clinically relevant cohort in interventional trials. We analyzed real‐world data from the German CPP registry with regard to a possible benefit of ACT in elderly (70+ yrs.) versus younger pts. (50 to <70 yrs.) taking cause‐specific deaths into account.

Methods

We analyzed the effect of age and ACT on overall survival (OS) and cause‐specific death of stage III pts. using Cox regression.

Results

In total, 1558 pts. were analyzed and follow‐up was 24.6 months. 62.6% of the elderly received ACT whereas 91.1% of younger pts. (p < 0.001). Oxaliplatin combinations were significantly less often given to older than younger pts. (38.8% vs. 88.9%; p < 0.001). Mean Charlson comorbidity score was significantly lower in pts. that received ACT (0.61) than in those without ACT (1.16; p < 0.001). ACT was an independent positive prognostic factor for cancer‐related death in elderly pts. even in pts. 75+ yrs. No significant difference in the effect of ACT could be observed between age groups (interaction: cancer‐specific death HR = 1.7948, p = 0.1079; death of other cause HR = 0.7384, p = 0.6705).

Conclusion

ACT was an independent positive prognostic factor for OS. There may be a cohort of elderly with less co‐morbidities who benefit from ACT.
Neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy using infusional gemcitabine in locally advanced rectal cancer: A phase II trial
Authors: Bazarbashi Shouki , Elshenawy Mahmoud A. , Badran Ahmed , Aljubran Ali , Alzahrani Ahmed , Almanea Hadeel , Alsuhaibani Abdullah , Alashwah Ahmed , Neimatallah Mohamed , Abduljabbar Alaa , Ashari Luai , Alhomoud Samar , Ghebeh Hazem , Elhassan Tusneem , Alsanea Nasser , Mohiuddin Mohammed
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Gemcitabine is a well‐known radiosensitizer. Herein, we tested the efficacy and toxicity of preoperative concurrent infusional gemcitabine and radiotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer.

Patients and Methods

This was a phase II, single‐arm trial. Eligible patients had a diagnosis of rectal adenocarcinoma with clinical stage T3–T4 and/or nodal involvement, age ≥18 years, and no prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Patients received preoperative radiation at a dose of 50.4–54 Gy over 28 days with concurrent infusional gemcitabine administered at a dose of 100 mg/m2 over the course of 24 h weekly for 6 weeks. The primary endpoint was pathological complete response (pCR).

Results

Forty patients were recruited. Only one patient did not complete therapy due to death. Eight patients did not undergo surgery, one died, two progressed to nonresectable disease, and five withdrew consent. Five patients progressed prior to surgery, with two having unresectable metastases and three having resectable liver metastases. One was found to have peritoneal metastasis during surgery. Out of the 32 patients who underwent surgery, seven achieved pCR at a rate of 20%. With a median follow‐up of 30 months, four additional patients had a distant relapse (one had a subsequent local relapse). The 3‐year event‐free and overall survival rates were 70% and 85%, respectively. The commonest preoperative grade 3–4 toxicity included lymphopenia (50%), neutropenia (41%), anemia (15%), diarrhea (12%), abdominal pain (12%), and proctitis (8%).

Conclusion

Concurrent preoperative chemoradiotherapy using infusional gemcitabine for locally advanced rectal cancer achieved an encouraging degree of local control with manageable toxicity.
School‐based abuse prevention programming: Implementation of child safety matters with minority youth
Authors: Kenny Maureen C. , Long Haiying , Billings Deborah , Malik Fayeza
Published: February 2022

Schools are a natural choice for providing prevention information about victimisation to children and young people. This study examines the implementation of the Monique Burr Foundation's Child Safety Matters program with minority youth attending public school. The program was implemented with children aged four to 13 years, primarily in schools in low‐income areas in a large, multicultural public school system. Pre‐ and post‐test assessments of the program showed small significant improvements over time regardless of grade or gender, though with ceiling effects in the pre‐tests. Regarding the most important information learned, youth responded with themes of bullying, safety rules, Internet safety and abuse. Five children made direct disclosures of sexual or physical abuse to the presenter and were subsequently reported to the child abuse hotline. Teachers, in whose classrooms the program was delivered, reported satisfaction with the program, and an increased sense of competence in identifying abuse. Implications for administering and assessing prevention programs are provided.

Key Practitioner Messages

School wide prevention programming can begin in schools with children as young as 5 years of age and expose a wide range of students to important knowledge and self‐protection skills.

Children who participated in the Child Safety Matters program showed significant gains in knowledge over time regardless of grade or gender.

Participation in a school‐based abuse prevention program may lead to disclosures of abuse among participants.
Natural Occurring Phenolic Derivatives from Mauritia flexuosa (Buriti) Stems and Their Potential Antibacterial Activity against Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Authors: de Oliveira Djalma Menezes , de Oliveira Diego Batista Carneiro , Nunes Yule Roberta Ferreira , de Almeida Alves Tânia Maria , Kohlhoff Markus , Andrade Anderson Assunção , Cota Betania Barros
Published: February 2022

Mauritia flexuosa Linnaeus filius (buriti or aguage; Arecaceae) is a palm used by traditional medicine in Brazil to treat dysentery and diarrhea. Our group showed that the soluble dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) fraction from EtOH extract from M. flexuosa stems inhibited the growth of methicillin‐susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and it is rich in phenolic compounds. This study aimed to isolate new phenolic compounds from CH2Cl2 fraction from M. flexuosa stems with in vitro antibacterial activity. The crude CH2Cl2 fraction was fractionated by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) followed by semi‐preparative RP‐HPLC. The antibacterial activity was evaluated using the broth microdilution method against MSSA (ATCC 29213) and MRSA (clinical isolate 155). All compounds were also tested against Gram‐negative (Escherichia coli; ATCC 35218) bacteria and two fungi species (Candida albicans; ATCC 14053 and Trichophyton rubrum; ATCC MYA 4438). The chemical structures of isolated compounds were determined by analysis and comparison with literature data of their NMR and HRMS spectra and optical activity. The chemical investigation yielded seven aromatic compounds, of which four, (2S,15S)‐2,15‐dimethyl‐2,15‐dioxa‐1,8(1,4)‐dibenzenacyclotetradecaphane (1), (2S,5S)‐1‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)hexane‐2,5‐diol (3), bruguierol E (4), and buritin (5) were previously unreported and three are known compounds identified as 6‐(4’‐hydroxyphenyl) hexan‐2‐one (2), (+)‐(2R,3R)‐dihydrokaempferol (6), and (+)‐(2R)‐naringenin (7). Compounds 1 and 7 showed antibacterial activity against MRSA and MSSA with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of between 62.5 and 31.3 μg/mL, respectively. Our preliminary findings support that CH2Cl2 fraction from buriti, a typical species of flooded areas of Brazilian savanna, and its aromatic phenolic compounds are active against MSSA and MRSA contributing with understanding about the traditional use of this species.
Sodium–glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors induced euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis: Two case reports and a review of the literature
Authors: Bitar Zouheir Ibrahim , Maadarani Ossama Sajeh , Alabdali Fawaz , Teama Ahmed , Elsawah Walid , Mohsen Mohammed Jaber , Elzoueiry Mahmoud Mostafa
Published: February 2022

If not detected early, euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis can be a serious adverse effect of sodium–glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Unfortunately, euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis is underreported in recent trials and missed because of normal blood sugar levels and nonspecific symptoms on presentation. We present two patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who developed dapagliflozin‐associated euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis followed by hyperglycemic ketoacidosis. The second patient had euglycemic ketoacidosis twice despite instructions to stop using the medication dapagliflozin.
Early identification of uterine scar defect by preconception magnetic resonance imaging to achieve successful pregnancy outcome after laparoscopic‐assisted myomectomy: Two case reports
Authors: Takeda Akihiro , Shibata Mayu , Koike Wataru
Published: February 2022

Myomectomy improves the reproductive ability of women. However, the risk for uterine rupture and abnormal placentation remains a concern. In two cases with scar defects after laparoscopic‐assisted myomectomy, one case developed amniocele, while other case showed abnormally invasive placenta. Obstetrical management measures with cesarean sections yielded uneventful postoperative courses.
Light‐Controllable Binary Switch Activation of CAR T Cells
Authors: Kobayashi Aya , Nobili Alberto , Neier Steven C. , Sadiki Amissi , Distel Robert , Zhou Zhaohui Sunny , Novina Carl D.
Published: February 2022

Major challenges to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies include uncontrolled immune activity, off‐tumor toxicities and tumor heterogeneity. To overcome these challenges, we engineered CARs directed against small molecules. By conjugating the same small molecule to distinct tumor‐targeting antibodies, we show that small molecule specific‐CAR T cells can be redirected to different tumor antigens. Such binary switches allow control over the degree of CAR T cell activity and enables simultaneous targeting of multiple tumor‐associated antigens. We also demonstrate that ultraviolet light‐sensitive caging of small molecules blocks CAR T cell activation. Exposure to ultraviolet light, uncaged small molecules and restored CAR T cell‐mediated killing. Together, our data demonstrate that a light‐sensitive caging system enables an additional level of control over tumor cell killing, which could improve the therapeutic index of CAR T cell therapies.
High‐gain single‐switch single‐input dual‐output DC‐DC converter with reduced switching stress
Authors: Krishna Bekkam , Uma Maheswar Rao P. , Karthikeyan V.
Published: February 2022

In light‐emitting diode (LED) driver applications, as an alternative of employing two separate conventional DC‐DC converters, single‐input dual‐output converters (SIDO) have excellent performance over traditional topologies. However, SIDO has the limitation of more number switches required, which leads to higher switching losses and deteriorating efficiency. In order to overcome this drawback, this paper presents a novel of a single‐switch single‐input dual‐output DC‐DC converter with a high‐gain ratio. It attains the two boosted outputs with a high‐gain conversion ratio using a single switch by incorporating the switched‐capacitor technique. In addition, the bulkiness of the converter was reduced by utilizing only one inductor and switch. Moreover, it improves efficiency by reduced switching stress and cross‐regulation at output ends. Furthermore, the performance of the converter in continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) has been explained in this paper. Finally, a 120‐W hardware setup has been built and tested. The experiment results are presented to validate the merits of the proposed topology.
Birthweight moderates the association between chronological age and infants’ abilities to respond to cues for joint attention
Authors: Stallworthy Isabella C. , Sifre Robin , Fenoglio Angela , Dahl Claire , Georgieff Michael K. , Elison Jed T.
Published: February 2022

Infants born preterm are more likely than ever to survive, but relatively little is known about the factors that influence their subsequent sociocognitive development. Responding to joint attention (RJA) is a pivotal skill that is likely supported by biological preparedness at birth and ex‐utero social experience. The goals of this study are to evaluate the relative roles of chronological age, gestation duration, and birthweight for early RJA and examine birthweight as a potential moderator of the associations between chronological age and RJA. This study leveraged a mixed longitudinal design of infants (N = 256, obs = 421) from 8 to 16 months of chronological age. Results show that chronological age and gestation duration both explain unique variation in RJA. Further, birthweight exhibits quadratic relations with RJA. Birthweight moderates the association between chronological age and RJA; infants born heavier demonstrate faster RJA growth compared to those born smaller. Findings suggest that birth weight, an index of nutrient sufficiency in utero and biological preparedness, may constrain or afford early RJA development, consistent with the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DoHAD) hypothesis. Findings inform our understanding of the roles of biological preparedness and experience in shaping RJA and help disaggregate potential mechanisms of prematurity‐related challenges to social cognitive development.
Microclimate‐driven trends in spring‐emergence phenology in a temperate reptile (Vipera berus): Evidence for a potential “climate trap”?
Authors: Turner Rebecca K. , Maclean Ilya M. D.
Published: February 2022

Climate change can not only increase the exposure of organisms to higher temperatures but can also drive phenological shifts that alter their susceptibility to conditions at the onset of breeding cycles. Organisms rely on climatic cues to time annual life cycle events, but the extent to which climate change has altered cue reliability remains unclear. Here, we examined the risk of a “climate trap”—a climatically driven desynchronization of the cues that determine life cycle events and fitness later in the season in a temperate reptile, the European adder (Vipera berus). During the winter, adders hibernate underground, buffered against subzero temperatures, and re‐emerge in the spring to reproduce. We derived annual spring‐emergence trends between 1983 and 2017 from historical observations in Cornwall, UK, and related these trends to the microclimatic conditions that adders experienced. Using a mechanistic microclimate model, we computed below‐ and near‐ground temperatures to derive accumulated degree‐hour and absolute temperature thresholds that predicted annual spring‐emergence timing. Trends in annual‐emergence timing and subsequent exposure to ground frost were then quantified. We found that adders have advanced their phenology toward earlier emergence. Earlier emergence was associated with increased exposure to ground frost and, contradicting the expected effects of macroclimate warming, increased post‐emergence exposure to ground frost at some locations. The susceptibility of adders to this “climate trap” was related to the rate at which frost risk diminishes relative to advancement in phenology, which depends on the seasonality of climate. We emphasize the need to consider exposure to changing microclimatic conditions when forecasting biological impacts of climate change.
Anthracene‐Modified Cadmium Metal‐Organic Framework as an Excellent Sensor for the Detection of 2,4,6‐Trinitrophenol and Nitrofurantoin
Authors: Lan Men Ling , Li Jiao , Yue Fan Ming , Li Xiao , Ling Liu Yan , Wei Gao Feng , Min Su Zhong
Published: February 2022

A novel 3D MOF [Cd2(IPA)2L0.5(CH3OH)] (CUST‐535) (H2IPA=isophthalic acid; L=9,10‐bis(N‐benzimidazolyl)‐anthracene) with rectangular 2D layer has been rationally synthesized under solvothermal conditions using ligand L with fluorescence properties. CUST‐535 displays a fascinating 6‐connected 3D network based on the point symbol {36 ⋅ 418}. The excellent structural stability of CUST‐535 was also verified by PXRD and TGA. Remarkably, thanks to the presence of the anthracene‐based chromophore, CUST‐535 exhibits strong blue light emission and shows sensitive and rapid fluorescence “turn‐off” detecting of trace amounts of 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol (TNP) and nitrofurantoin (NFT) in DMF. The limit of detection (LOD) for TNP and NFT are 0.374 μM and 0.675 μM, respectively. In the end, the mechanisms of fluorescence quenching have also been systematically studied through theoretical calculations and experiments.
Electrochemical Investigation of some Flavonoids in Aprotic Media
Authors: Naróg Dorota , Sobkowiak Andrzej
Published: February 2022

Cyclic voltammerty data for the oxidation of 15 flavonoids in acetonitrile have been presented. Up to three peaks in different potential regions appear in the CV curves, depending on the structure of a flavonoid. The peak in the first potential region (+0.79÷+1.03 V vs SCE) occurs when a flavonoid molecule has an o‐dihydroxy moiety in the ring A or B. From the data in the literature, the formation of o‐quinone is responsible for the occurrence of the peak. When the o‐dihydroxy moiety is in ring B and the hydroxyl group is at position 3, the second peak in the potential region+1.08÷+1.32 V, is present. It is an agreement that the peak is due to oxidation of benzofuranone derivative formed in reaction of o‐quinone with water. Molecules with an o‐quinone moiety located in ring A seem to be less reactive, and the peak in the second potential region does not occur. However, the existence of an o‐quinone in the ring B is not necessary for the peak in the second potential region to be present. The oxidation of kaempferol and morin, which have hydroxyl groups at positions 3 and 4’, takes place at 0.98 V and 0.97 V, respectively, and leads to the formation of p‐quinone methide. We have shown that the peak in the second potential region also appears when the hydroxyl group in the flavonoid molecule is only at position 3 or at position 4’. For 3‐hydroxyflavone and apigenin, which are oxidized at +1.10 V and 1.49 V respectively, p‐quinone methide was detected after controlled potential bulk electrolysis. A mechanism which includes the reaction of the carbon radical with a trace of water has been proposed. For flavonoids that have an o‐dihydroxy moiety in ring B and the hydroxyl group at position 3, two oxidation peaks are observed in the CV curves in the second potential region for low scan rates (below 0.1 V s−1). An explanation of this behavior has been proposed.
Battery Health Diagnosis Approach Integrating Physics‐Based Modeling with Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Galatro Daniela , Da Silva Carlos , Romero David A. , Gong Zhe , Trescases Olivier , Amon Cristina H.
Published: February 2022

Herein, a battery health diagnosis approach that combines electrochemical performance aging and lumped thermal models with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and voltage monitoring is proposed, allowing the segregation and quantification of ohmic, chemical, and diffusion‐mechanical related losses. This approach accurately identifies battery lifetime thresholds such as first‐life, second‐life, and turnaround points, by combining the use of a capacity indicator and overpotentials as battery health indicators. This approach, which is demonstrated at the cell level, is scalable to module and pack levels and applicable to different cell chemistries and battery configurations. This battery health diagnosis approach is validated with performance and degradation data from lithium iron phosphate and nickel–manganese–cobalt cells, showing good agreement when comparing the predicted capacity fade against measured values.
Development of instant paneer type product from groundnut using microwave dehydration
Authors: Bal Atreyee , Chauhan Om Prakash , Pandey Arun Kumar , Semwal Anil Dutt , Mishra Avinash , Almujaydil Mona S. , Alharbi Hend F. , Alnajeebi Afnan M. , Elansary Hosam O. , Mahmoud Eman A.
Published: February 2022

The present study aimed at the development of a groundnut‐based dehydrated paneer type product which could serve as an instant vegan protein source. In the process of preparing groundnut paneer, a ratio of 1:5 of groundnut to water and 2.0% calcium chloride (CaCl2) solution was used for the preparation of groundnut paneer and the product was evaluated for physicochemical, instrumental color, instrumental textural, and sensory characteristics. The developed paneer cubes (1.5 × 1.5 × 1 cm) were dehydrated using a vacuum‐assisted microwave dryer at different microwave powers (200–600 W, 250 mbar vacuum). The minimum bulk density (0.55 g/cc) and maximum rehydration ratio (2.9) were recorded in the sample dehydrated at 600 W. The samples dried at 600 W also showed significantly (p < .05) higher L* values, softer texture and high sensory scores for color, aroma, taste, texture, and overall acceptability after rehydration.
Avalanche criticality in individuals, fluid intelligence, and working memory
Authors: Xu Longzhou , Feng Jianfeng , Yu Lianchun
Published: February 2022

The critical brain hypothesis suggests that efficient neural computation can be achieved through critical brain dynamics. However, the relationship between human cognitive performance and scale‐free brain dynamics remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the whole‐brain avalanche activity and its individual variability in the human resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data. We showed that though the group‐level analysis was inaccurate because of individual variability, the subject wise scale‐free avalanche activity was significantly associated with maximal synchronization entropy of their brain activity. Meanwhile, the complexity of functional connectivity, as well as structure–function coupling, is maximized in subjects with maximal synchronization entropy. We also observed order–disorder phase transitions in resting‐state brain dynamics and found that there were longer times spent in the subcritical regime. These results imply that large‐scale brain dynamics favor the slightly subcritical regime of phase transition. Finally, we showed evidence that the neural dynamics of human participants with higher fluid intelligence and working memory scores are closer to criticality. We identified brain regions whose critical dynamics showed significant positive correlations with fluid intelligence performance and found that these regions were located in the prefrontal cortex and inferior parietal cortex, which were believed to be important nodes of brain networks underlying human intelligence. Our results reveal the possible role that avalanche criticality plays in cognitive performance and provide a simple method to identify the critical point and map cortical states on a spectrum of neural dynamics, ranging from subcriticality to supercriticality.
Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio as a prognostic marker for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: Meta‐analysis
Authors: Takenaka Yukinori , Oya Ryohei , Takemoto Norihiko , Inohara Hidenori
Published: February 2022

We investigated the prognostic impact of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We systematically searched electronic databases and identified articles reporting an association between NLR and treatment results in patients with HNSCC treated with ICIs. Hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) and odds ratios (ORs) for response and disease control were extracted. Pooled HRs and ORs were estimated using random‐effects models. Fourteen studies involving 929 patients were included. A higher NLR was associated with poor OS (HR 2.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.50–2.74), PFS (HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.44–3.21), response (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.26–0.93), and disease control (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.12–0.74). The NLR predicts treatment results with ICIs in patients with HNSCC.
Preclinical safety evaluation of levonadifloxacin, a novel anti‐methicillin‐resistant Staphyloccocus aureus benzoquinolizine fluoroquinolone by intravenous and oral administration
Authors: Nandanwar Manohar , Kansagara Atul , Gupta Sangita , Patel Anasuya , Patel Muftedar Ahmed , Yeole Ravindra , Thorve Deepak , Patel Mahesh
Published: February 2022

Fluoroquinolone (FQ) antibacterials have drawn heightened attention from various international regulatory agencies due to their class‐specific side effects. Levonadifloxacin is a novel broad spectrum benzoquinolizine FQ active against methicillin‐resistant Staphyloccocus aureus (MRSA). Owing to FQ‐associated safety concerns, extensive preclinical safety pharmacology (central nervous system and cardiac safety) and toxicology studies (subacute repeat‐dose toxicity, genotoxicity, phototoxicity and chondrotoxicity) of levonadifloxacin were performed at relatively high doses. Intravenous (IV) and oral studies were conducted using WCK 771 (l‐arginine salt of levonadifloxacin) and WCK 2349 (l‐alanine ester prodrug of levonadifloxacin), respectively. Safety pharmacology studies following single dose revealed no adverse effects on central nervous system (including seizure) in mice and cardiovascular system (hERG and monkey telemetry). In repeat‐dose toxicity studies, except for IV bolus dosing related effects in rat (hyperactivity, mild convulsion, polypnoea and injection site irritation) and dog (emesis and salivation), no other adverse findings limiting the dosing duration were observed. No major biochemical, haematological, gross or histopathological changes suggestive of damage to vital organs were observed in either WCK 771‐ or WCK 2349‐treated groups. WCK 771 and WCK 2349 were found to be nongenotoxic; however, they showed weak phototoxicity that was comparable with levofloxacin. WCK 771 showed chondrotoxicity in the Beagle dog pups on repeat‐dose administration; however, the severity level was lower than ofloxacin. Overall, preclinical safety studies helped establish wider safety margin for WCK 771 and WCK 2349 that supports administration of higher therapeutic doses in humans by both IV and oral routes, thereby enabling safe anti‐MRSA treatment.
Cell cycle arrest induced by trichoplein depletion is independent of cilia assembly
Authors: Huang Min , Kong Xinlong , Tang Zaiming , Lin Zaisheng , He Ruida , Cao Muqing , Zhang Xiujuan
Published: February 2022

Cilia assembly and centriole duplication are closely coordinated with cell cycle progression, and inhibition of cilia disassembly impedes cell cycle progression. The centrosomal protein trichoplein (TCHP) has been shown to promote cell cycle progression in the G1‐S phase by disassembling cilia. In this study, we showed that deletion of TCHP not only prevented the progression to the S phase but also resulted in cell cycle exit and entrance into G0 phase. Surprisingly, we found that loss of TCHP‐induced G0 arrest could not be reversed by blocking the assembly of cilia. In cells without IFT20 or CEP164, two genes encoding key factors for ciliogenesis, depletion of TCHP still led to G0 arrest. Mechanistically, we also found that TCHP depletion‐induced cell cycle arrest was not mediated through a centrosome surveillance mechanism, but inhibition of Rb or concomitant inhibition of both Rb and p53 signaling pathways was required to reverse the cell cycle phenotype. In conclusion, our study provides new insights into the function of TCHP in cell cycle progression.
How misinformation taints our belief system: A focus on belief updating and relational reasoning
Authors: Chaxel Anne‐Sophie
Published: February 2022

This commentary complements Stanley et al.'s (2022) target article by concentrating on the process of false belief construction and its associated cognitive mechanisms. It also concurs with the target article that a deeper understanding of the cognitive mechanisms by which consumers revise their truth judgments in view of new evidence is needed. Specifically, this essay develops two main dimensions: the first about what we know from the actual construction of truth judgments; the second about what we know from the cognitive mechanisms by which truth judgments are constructed. Particularly on this second dimension, I develop the idea that relational reasoning is key to understanding how individuals integrate new information within their internal belief systems. These two dimensions are both process‐minded, yet one is about how beliefs evolve over time, whereas the other is about the cognitive mechanisms that underlie belief construction. Overall, an understanding of these two elements is crucial to finding behavioral interventions that may curb the spread of misinformation.
Evaluation of barriers to referral for cancer predisposition syndromes in pediatric oncology patients in the United States
Authors: Venier Rosemarie E. , Grubs Robin E. , Kessler Elena , Cooper Kristine L. , Bailey Kelly M. , Meade Julia
Published: February 2022

Cancer predisposition syndromes (CPS) are underdiagnosed in the pediatric population, though the diagnosis of a CPS has important implications for the child and their family. CPS are often diagnosed by geneticists or oncologists with expertise in CPS following a malignancy. This requires a member of the care team, most commonly, the treating oncologist to suspect a CPS and refer the patient for CPS assessment. An online survey was distributed to members of the Children's Oncology Group to elucidate current referral practices and barriers to referral for patients suspected to have a CPS. Of the 183 respondents, 86.1% was pediatric oncologists and most (68.5%) used formal guidelines to aid in assessment. Most respondents indicated they would rarely refer patients with tumors highly associated with CPS for genetic assessment. Participants were more likely to refer patients with malignancy and additional features of a CPS than for a specific type of cancer, despite the use of guidelines. Parent knowledge of family history was considered the most challenging barrier to obtaining a family history, though a thorough pedigree was not consistently elicited. Providers indicated the most significant barrier to referral for CPS assessment was priority given the patient's immediate care needs. Identification of these barriers provides direction to focus efforts to increase referrals. Provider education about CPS, clear referral guidelines, and implementation of or increased collaboration with a genetic counselor in the pediatric oncology clinic may encourage CPS assessment and enable oncologists to focus on the patient's immediate care needs.
Engagement in the pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) cascade among a respondent‐driven sample of sexually active men who have sex with men and transgender women during early PrEP implementation in Zimbabwe
Authors: Parmley Lauren E. , Harris Tiffany G. , Chingombe Innocent , Mapingure Munyaradzi , Mugurungi Owen , Rogers John H. , Gozhora Perpetua , Wu Yingfeng , Samba Chesterfield , Musuka Godfrey , Hakim Avi J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Zimbabwe is scaling up pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for key populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). To assess implementation and inform HIV programming, we evaluated gaps in PrEP awareness, uptake and use, and correlates of awareness and uptake among a sample of MSM, TGW and genderqueer individuals (GQ) in Harare and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

Methods

Respondent‐driven sampling was used to recruit 1194 MSM and 344 TGW/GQ aged ≥18 to participate in a cross‐sectional survey assessing HIV‐related outcomes in 2019. Consenting participants completed a questionnaire on socio‐demographic information, sexual risk practices and engagement in HIV services and underwent HIV testing. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the PrEP cascade. Multiple logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with PrEP awareness and uptake among HIV‐negative participants. Data were unweighted as the sample did not reach convergence on key estimates.

Results

Among the 1167 HIV‐negative participants, most (79.2%) were MSM compared to TGW/GQ (20.8%). Median age was 24 years. Overall, 45.8% were aware of PrEP and of those, 31.3% had ever taken PrEP. Most (71.1%) reporting never taking PrEP were willing to start PrEP; the main reasons for never starting PrEP included not knowing where to access it (24.8%) and fearing side effects (20.4%). Among those who had ever taken PrEP, 74.9% had taken PrEP in the last 6 months; of these, 42.4% had taken PrEP the day of or day preceding the survey. Side effects represented the most common (59.5%) reason for discontinuing PrEP. MSM (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8–3.6) and TGW/GQ in Harare (aOR: 3.1, 95% CI: 2.1–4.7), and TGW/GQ in Bulawayo (aOR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.1–5.3) had higher awareness of PrEP than MSM in Bulawayo. Overall, TGW/GQ were more likely to have ever taken PrEP compared to MSM (aOR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.01–2.4).

Conclusions

Findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions to promote PrEP among key populations. As HIV programs in Zimbabwe continue to expand PrEP services, these data, including barriers to starting and continuing PrEP, can inform strategies to address gaps along the PrEP cascade.
Irregular porous titanium enhances implant stability and bone ingrowth in an intra‐articular ovine model
Authors: Changoor Adele , Suderman R. Peter , Alshaygy Ibrahim , Fuhrmann Ariel , Akens Margarete K. , Safir Oleg , Grynpas Marc D. , Kuzyk Paul R. T.
Published: February 2022

Two commercially available porous coatings, Gription and Porocoat, were compared for the first time in a challenging intra‐articular, weight‐bearing, ovine model. Gription has evolved from Porocoat and has higher porosity, coefficient of friction, and microtextured topography, which are expected to enhance bone ingrowth. Cylindrical implants were press‐fit into the weight‐bearing regions of ovine femoral condyles and bone ingrowth and fixation strength evaluated 4, 8, and 16 weeks postoperatively. Biomechanical push‐out tests were performed on lateral femoral condyles (LFCs) to evaluate the strength of the bone‐implant interface. Bone ingrowth was assessed in medial femoral condyles (MFCs) as well as implants retrieved from LFCs following biomechanical testing using backscattered electron microscopy and histology. By 16 weeks, Gription‐coated implants exhibited higher force (2455 ± 1362 vs. 1002 ± 1466 N;p = 0.046) and stress (12.60 ± 6.99 vs. 5.14 ± 7.53 MPa;p = 0.046) at failure, and trended towards higher stiffness (11,510 ± 7645 vs. 5010 ± 8374 N/mm;p = 0.061) and modulus of elasticity (591 ± 392 vs. 256 ± 431 MPa;p = 0.061). A strong, positive correlation was detected between bone ingrowth in LFC implants and failure force (r = 0.93,p < 10−13). By 16 weeks, bone ingrowth in Gription‐coated implants in MFCs was 10.50 ± 6.31% compared to 5.88 ± 2.77% in Porocoat (p = 0.095). Observations of the bone‐implant interface, made following push‐out testing, showed more bony material consistently adhered to Gription compared to Porocoat at all three time points. Gription provided superior fixation strength and bone ingrowth by 16 weeks.
Sleep patterns of patients receiving home parenteral nutrition: A home‐based observational study
Authors: Dashti Hassan S. , Godbole Meghna , Chen Angela , Mogensen Kris M. , Leong Aaron , Burns David L. , Winkler Marion F. , Saxena Richa , Compher Charlene
Published: February 2022

Background

Patients supported with home parenteral nutrition (HPN) often report poor sleep; however, limited research has been conducted to objectively measure sleep patterns of HPN‐dependent patients.

Methods

We aimed to characterize the sleep patterns of patients receiving HPN through 7‐day actigraphy in a home‐based observational study. Sleep measures of clinical importance were derived from actigraphy, including sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep onset latency, and wake after sleep onset. Participants also completed validated sleep surveys.

Results

Twenty participants completed all study procedures (mean [SD]: age = 51.6 [13.9] years, body mass index = 21.4  [4.6], and 80% female). The population median (IQR) for sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep onset latency, and wake after sleep onset was 6.9 (1.1) h, 83.3% (7.8%), 11.8 (7.1) min, and 57.2 (39.9) min, respectively, and 55%, 60%, 35%, and 100% of participants did not meet the recommendations for these measures from the National Sleep Foundation. Sixty‐five percent of participants reported napping at least once during the 7‐day period. Based on the Insomnia Severity Index, 70% of participants were classified as having subthreshold or more severe insomnia. Based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, 85% were classified as having significant sleep disturbance.

Conclusion

Most HPN‐dependent patients likely have disrupted sleep largely driven by difficulty maintaining sleep. The extent to which HPN contributed to poor sleep cannot be elucidated from this observational study. Addressing known factors that contribute to sleep disruption and considering sleep interventions may improve the overall quality of life of patients receiving HPN.
Hydrolyzable Poly(β‐thioether ester ketal) Thermosets via Acyclic Ketal Monomers
Authors: Alameda Benjamin M. , Murphy Joseph Scott , Barea‐López Bernardo L. , Knox Karly D. , Sisemore Jonathan D. , Patton Derek L.
Published: February 2022

Hydrolytically degradable poly(β‐thioether ester ketal) thermosets are synthesized via radical‐mediated thiol‐ene photopolymerization using three novel dialkene acyclic ketal monomers and a mercaptopropionate based tetrafunctional thiol. For all thermoset compositions investigated, degradation behavior is highly tunable based on the structure of the incorporated ketal and pH. Complete degradation of the thermosets is observed upon exposure to acidic and neutral pH, and under high humidity conditions. Polymer networks composed of cross‐link junctions based on acyclic dimethyl ketals degrade the quickest, whereas networks containing acyclic cyclohexyl ketals undergo hydrolytic degradation on a longer timescale. Thermomechanical analysis reveals low glass transition temperatures and moduli typical of thioether‐based thermosets.