bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between comprehensive workstation and neck and upper-limb pain among office worker
Authors: Nakatsuka Kiyomasa , Tsuboi Yamato , Okumura Maho , Murata Shunsuke , Isa Tsunenori , Kawaharada Rika , Matsuda Naoka , Uchida Kazuaki , Horibe Kana , Kogaki Masahumi , Ono Rei
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Our study aimed to investigate the association between comprehensive workstations and neck and upper-limb pain (NUP) among office workers.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 307 office workers (median age, 39 years; 88% men). Workstations (presence of armrest, armrest position, number of monitors used, mouse position, mouse usage, keyboard usage, and keyboard position) were investigated in terms of 17 items and judged as “adequate” or “inadequate.” NUP was assessed using a numerical rating scale. NUP locations included the neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist. In the statistical analysis, outcome variables were the presence of pain in each part, while explanatory variables were the number of inadequate workstations. Logistic regression analyses were conducted with adjustment for age, gender, working duration, and exercise habit.

Results

The prevalence of neck pain was 47% (n = 143), shoulder pain was 50% (n = 153), elbow pain was 7.2% (n = 22), and wrist pain was 13% (n = 40). In the adjusted model, the number of inadequate workstations had significant positive associations with elbow pain (odds ratio [OR], 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06.1.81) and wrist pain (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.17.2.26). However, the number of inadequate workstations was not significantly associated with neck pain or shoulder pain.

Conclusions

Workstation-related factors (presence of armrest, armrest position, mouse usage, and keyboard usage) were significantly associated with elbow and wrist pain. Our findings suggest that workstations can contribute to elbow and wrist pain in office workers.
PTEN is required for the migration and invasion of Ras‐transformed MDCK cells
Authors: Yan Lu , Tsujita Kazuya , Fujita Yasuyuki , Itoh Toshiki
Published: February 2021

The balance between phosphoinositides distributed at specific sites in the plasma membrane causes polarized actin polymerization. Oncogenic transformations affect this balance by regulating phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), causing metastatic behavior in cancer cells. Here, we show that the PTEN tumor suppressor gene is required for epithelial cancer cell invasion. Loss of PTEN in Ras‐transformed MDCK cells suppressed their migratory phenotype in collagen gel and invasion through Matrigel. Rescue experiments showed a requirement for the C2 domain‐mediated membrane recruitment of PTEN, which is typically observed at the rear side of invading cancer cells. These findings support the role of PTEN in suppression of unwanted leading edges necessary for efficient migration of epithelial cancer cells.
Environmental pH stress influences cellular secretion and uptake of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Nakase Ikuhiko , Ueno Natsumi , Matsuzawa Mie , Noguchi Kosuke , Hirano Mami , Omura Mika , Takenaka Tomoya , Sugiyama Ayaka , Bailey Kobayashi Nahoko , Hashimoto Takuya , Takatani‐Nakase Tomoka , Yuba Eiji , Fujii Ikuo , Futaki Shiroh , Yoshida Tetsuhiko
Published: February 2021

Exosomes (extracellular vesicles/EVs) participate in cell–cell communication and contain bioactive molecules, such as microRNAs. However, the detailed characteristics of secreted EVs produced by cells grown under low pH conditions are still unknown. Here, we report that low pH in the cell culture medium significantly affected the secretion of EVs with increased protein content and zeta potential. The intracellular expression level and location of stably expressed GFP‐fused CD63 (an EV tetraspanin) in HeLa cells were also significantly affected by environmental pH. In addition, increased cellular uptake of EVs was observed. Moreover, the uptake rate was influenced by the presence of serum in the cell culture medium. Our findings contribute to our understanding of the effect of environmental conditions on EV‐based cell–cell communication.
NEK5 interacts with LonP1 and its kinase activity is essential for the regulation of mitochondrial functions and mtDNA maintenance
Authors: Ferezin Camila de Castro , Basei Fernanda Luisa , Melo‐Hanchuk Talita D. , de Oliveira Ana Luisa , Peres de Oliveira Andressa , Mori Mateus P. , de Souza‐Pinto Nadja C. , Kobarg Jörg
Published: February 2021

Little is known about Nima‐related kinase (NEKs), a widely conserved family of kinases that have key roles in cell‐cycle progression. Nevertheless, it is now clear that multiple NEK family members act in networks, not only to regulate specific events of mitosis, but also to regulate metabolic events independently of the cell cycle. NEK5 was shown to act in centrosome disjunction, caspase‐3 regulation, myogenesis, and mitochondrial respiration. Here, we demonstrate that NEK5 interacts with LonP1, an AAA+ mitochondrial protease implicated in protein quality control and mtDNA remodeling, within the mitochondria and it might be involved in the LonP1‐TFAM signaling module. Moreover, we demonstrate that NEK5 kinase activity is required for maintaining mitochondrial mass and functionality and mtDNA integrity after oxidative damage. Taken together, these results show a new role of NEK5 in the regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis and mtDNA maintenance, possibly due to its interaction with key mitochondrial proteins, such as LonP1.
Comparative Efficacy of Different Triage Methods for Psoriatic Arthritis: Results From a Prospective Study in a Rapid Access Clinic
Authors: Sarabia Samantha , Farrer Chandra , Yeung Jensen , Jerome Dana , Cook Richard J. , Eder Lihi
Published: February 2021

Objective

We undertook this study to identify the optimal combination of triage methods to identify psoriatic arthritis (PsA) among psoriasis patients with musculoskeletal symptoms in a rapid access clinic and to describe their outcome after 1 year.

Methods

Patients with psoriasis and no prior diagnosis of PsA were referred for assessment of their musculoskeletal symptoms. Each patient was assessed by the following 3 triage modalities: 1) assessment by an advanced practice physical therapist; 2) targeted musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK‐US); and 3) PsA screening questionnaires. The patients were then evaluated by a rheumatologist who determined the patient's disease status and classified them into the following groups: not PsA, possibly PsA, or PsA. Patients returned for a 1‐year follow‐up visit and were reassessed for change in their disease status. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for each individual modality, as well as for combinations of modalities.

Results

A total of 203 patients with psoriasis and musculoskeletal symptoms were enrolled. The percentage of patients classified as having PsA was 8.8%, and 23.6% were converted into the possibly PsA group. There was no significant difference in the individual performance of the modalities. The highest sensitivity was seen with MSK‐US (89%), and the highest specificity was found with the Psoriatic Arthritis Screening and Evaluation questionnaire (79%). The addition of MSK‐US data improved the performance of the modalities. A total of 9 patients were classified into the PsA group after 1 year. All patient‐reported outcome measures had significantly improved at 1 year (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Combining MSK‐US with a screening questionnaire for PsA improved the triage of patients with suspected PsA.
Physician Global Assessment as a Disease Activity Measure for Relapsing Polychondritis
Authors: Rose Emily , Ferrada Marcela A. , Quinn Kaitlin A. , Goodspeed Wendy , Arnaud Laurent , Sharma Aman , Yoshifuji Hajime , Kim Jeff , Allen Clint , Sirajuddin Arlene , Chen Marcus , Grayson Peter C.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a systemic inflammatory disorder of cartilage that lacks validated disease activity measures. Our objective was to test physician global assessment (PhGA), a measure of disease activity commonly used in rheumatic diseases, in a cohort of patients with RP, which has not been done before.

Methods

Adult patients in an observational cohort of RP underwent standardized, comprehensive evaluation at approximately 6‐month intervals. PhGA was scored by 3 physicians from the evaluating institution on a scale of 0–10 for each visit. A random subset of 20 visits was scored by 3 independent physicians not affiliated with the evaluating institution. Treatment change between consecutive visits was categorized as increased, decreased, or unchanged.

Results

In total, 78 patients were evaluated over 164 visits. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) for the 3 raters from the evaluating institution was excellent (0.79 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.73, 0.84]) but was poor in the subset of cases scored by the additional raters (ICC2,10.27 [95% CI −0.01, 0.53]). Median PhGA was 3 (range 0–7). PhGA weakly correlated with C‐reactive protein level (rs= 0.30,P< 0.01). In response to increased treatment, median PhGA decreased from 3 (interquartile range [IQR] 2, 4) to 2 (IQR 2, 3) (P< 0.01) but rarely went to 0.

Conclusion

Within a single center, PhGA can be used to quantify disease activity and monitor disease response in RP. Persistent disease activity despite treatment, rather than a relapsing‐remitting pattern, is observed for most patients with RP. Reliability of PhGA may not generalize across different institutions. A validated disease‐specific activity index is needed in RP.
Relationship Between Changing Body Mass Index and Serum Uric Acid Alteration Among Clinically Apparently Healthy Korean Men
Authors: Hwang Jiwon , Lee Mi Yeon , Ahn Joong Kyong , Cha Hoon‐Suk
Published: February 2021

Objective

Gout and hyperuricemia incidence is increasing worldwide, reflecting pandemic overweight and obesity. However, the magnitude of the association of body mass index (BMI) changes with serum uric acid (UA) level in the general population has remained unevaluated.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 27,422 Korean men who underwent a comprehensive health check‐up between 2015 and 2017. BMI change was categorized into 7 groups. The relationship between BMI change and serum UA level alteration was determined using multivariable regression models.

Results

The mean age, BMI, and serum UA level were 38.8 years, 24.7 kg/m2, and 6.2 mg/dl, respectively. All BMI change categories had a clear dose‐response relationship with the serum UA level changes. The corresponding β coefficient of serum UA level changes was 0.13 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.11, 0.16), 0.25 (95% CI 0.2, 0.3), and 0.44 (95% CI 0.36, 0.52) for a BMI decrease of 0.5–1.5, 1.5–2.5, and ≥2.5, respectively. Compared with no BMI change, the multivariate odds ratios of achieving normouricemia for a BMI increase of 0.5–1.5, 1.5–2.5, and ≥2.5 were 0.88 (95% CI 0.83, 0.95), 0.67 (95% CI 0.60, 0.75), and 0.60 (95% CI 0.49, 0.74), whereas those for a BMI decrease of 0.5–1.5, 1.5–2.5, and ≥2.5 were 1.17 (95% CI 1.07, 1.27), 1.28 (95% CI 1.08, 1.52), and 1.46 (95% CI 1.13, 1.88), respectively.

Conclusion

BMI change could have a significant association with the alteration of serum UA levels of apparently healthy men. Despite its small effect size, the health risks and benefits of BMI change would be emphasized for serum UA level alteration.
Renal‐Clearable Ultrasmall Polypyrrole Nanoparticles with Size‐Regulated Property for Second Near‐Infrared Light‐Mediated Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Zeng Weiwei , Wu Xixi , Chen Ting , Sun Shengjie , Shi Zhifeng , Liu Jia , Ji Xiaoyuan , Zeng Xiaowei , Guan Jian , Mei Lin , Wu Meiying
Published: February 2021

The critical issue that hinders the translation of nanomaterials from basic research to clinical trials is their potential toxicity caused by long‐term body retention. It is still a huge challenge to integrate renal‐clearable and theranostic properties into one nanomedicine, especially exploring the nanomaterials with optical absorption in the second near‐infrared light (NIR II) biowindow with deep penetration and less tissue scattering. Here, ultrasmall polypyrrole (PPy, ≈2 nm)‐based theranostic agents via a facile and green one‐step method, which exhibit fluorescence (FL)/photoacoustic (PA)/NIR II multimodal imaging, superior photostability, as well as high photothermal conversion efficiency of 33.35% at 808 nm and 41.97% at 1064 nm is developed. Importantly, these ultrasmall PPy‐PEG nanoparticles (NPs) reveal abundant tumor accumulation and efficient renal clearance. Both in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that ultrasmall PPy‐PEG NPs have excellent photothermal effect under NIR II laser irradiation that can effectively eliminate the tumors with extremely low systemic toxicity.
Field‐Free Manipulation of Skyrmion Creation and Annihilation by Tunable Strain Engineering
Authors: Feng Chun , Meng Fei , Wang Yadong , Jiang Jiawei , Mehmood Nasir , Cao Yi , Lv Xiaowei , Yang Feng , Wang Lei , Zhao Yongkang , Xie Shuai , Hou Zhipeng , Mi Wenbo , Peng Yong , Wang Kaiyou , Gao Xingsen , Yu Guanghua , Liu Junming
Published: February 2021

Creation and annihilation of skyrmions are two crucial issues for constructing skyrmion‐based memory and logic devices. To date, these operations were mainly achieved by means of external magnetic, electrical, and optical modulations. In this work, we demonstrated an effective strain‐induced skyrmion nucleation/annihilation phenomenon in [Pt/Co/Ta]n multilayers utilizing the shape memory effect of a TiNiNb substrate. A tunable tensile strain up to 1.0% can be realized in the films by thermally driving phase transition of the substrate, which significantly decreases the nucleation field of skyrmions by as many as 400 Oe and facilitates the field‐free manipulation of skyrmions with the strain. Such a strain effect can be attributed to the synergetic interplay of the planar magnetic moment twirling and decrement of interfacial Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction. In addition, the strain tunability is found to be strongly related to the strain direction due to magnetoelastic interaction. These findings provide a novel strategy for developing strain‐assisted skyrmion‐based memory and logic devices.
Temperature‐Controlled Optical Activity and Negative Refractive Index
Authors: Liu Meng , Plum Eric , Li Hua , Li Shaoxian , Xu Quan , Zhang Xueqian , Zhang Caihong , Zou Chongwen , Jin Biaobing , Han Jiaguang , Zhang Weili
Published: February 2021

Chiral media exhibit optical activity, which manifests itself as differential retardation and attenuation of circularly polarized electromagnetic waves of opposite handedness. This effect can be described by different refractive indices for left‐ and right‐handed waves and yields a negative index in extreme cases. Here, active control of chirality, optical activity, and refractive index is demonstrated. These phenomena are observed in a terahertz metamaterial based on 3D‐chiral metallic resonators and achiral vanadium dioxide inclusions. The chiral structure exhibits pronounced optical activity and a negative refractive index at room temperature when vanadium dioxide is in its insulating phase. Upon heating, the insulator‐to‐metal phase transition of vanadium dioxide effectively renders the structure achiral, resulting in absence of optical activity and a positive refractive index. The origin of the structure's chiral response is traced to magnetic coupling between front and back of the structure, whereas the temperature‐controlled chiral‐to‐achiral transition is found to correspond to a transition from magnetic to electric dipole excitations. The use of a fourfold rotationally symmetric design avoids linear birefringence and dichroism, allowing such a structure to operate as tunable polarization rotator, adjustable linear polarization converter, and switchable circular polarizer.
Universal Approach to Rapid Amplified Plasmonic Sensing Using Helix Defect Phase Transition Polymers
Authors: Shugayev Roman , Devkota Jagannath , Kim Ki‐Joong , Cvetic Patricia , Ohodnicki Paul
Published: February 2021

Permittivity sensing is a critically important analytical tool for bioscience, environmental, and industrial applications. The response time for commonly used plasmonic permittivity sensors is fundamentally set by the reaction kinetics of chemically adsorbed analytes. In this work, the proposal is to overcome this limit by combining plasmonic sensors with phase transition materials possessing a rapid amplified electrostatic response such as quadrupole moment induced molecular helix reversal. As a proof‐of‐concept, rapid sensing of CO2 on a phase transition polytetrafluoroethylene substrate and amplification of permittivity response in plasmonic Fabry–Perot sensor is shown. The demonstrated universal approach holds promise for a wide range of applications in fast, real time sensing and monitoring of biological and environmental processes.
Photoelectric Visual Adaptation Based on 0D‐CsPbBr3‐Quantum‐Dots/2D‐MoS2 Mixed‐Dimensional Heterojunction Transistor
Authors: Xie Dingdong , Wei Liubo , Xie Min , Jiang Leyong , Yang Junliang , He Jun , Jiang Jie
Published: February 2021

Adaptation is the most common and basic feature of living systems, which gives species or individuals a survival advantage. In particular, visual adaptation can enable organisms with a clearer understanding of the real world, thereby avoiding potential harm, which is vital for the life activities of organisms. However, current adaptive devices based on logic circuits are still facing the great challenges for large‐scale integration and limited bionic functions. Therefore, the hardware impleofmentation of biological visual adaptability through the emerging photoelectric devices may provide a great opportunity for the bionic systems facing complex environments. Here, a novel adaptive device based on a mixed‐dimensional van der Waals heterostructure is fabricated by using a gate‐modulated 0D‐CsPbBr3‐quantum‐dots/2D‐MoS2 heterostructure. The device has superior electric adaptabilities and excellent optical absorption abilities owing to its special energy‐band structure. The key characteristics of biological adaptation, such as accuracy, sensitivity, inactivation, and desensitization behaviors, are successfully emulated in the device based on the unique trapping‐detrapping mechanism. Most importantly, with a photoelectric synergy approach, the fascinating visual adaptation function based on an environment‐adjustable threshold is finally demonstrated. These results indicate that the proposed device may be very promising for the future applications of artificial visual systems and intelligent bionic robots.
Self‐Healing Soft Sensors: From Material Design to Implementation
Authors: Khatib Muhammad , Zohar Orr , Haick Hossam
Published: February 2021

The demand for interfacing electronics in everyday life is rapidly accelerating, with an ever‐growing number of applications in wearable electronics and electronic skins for robotics, prosthetics, and other purposes. Soft sensors that efficiently detect environmental or biological/physiological stimuli have been extensively studied due to their essential role in creating the necessary interfaces for these applications. Unfortunately, due to their natural softness, these sensors are highly sensitive to structural and mechanical damage. The integration of natural properties, such as self‐healing, into these systems should improve their reliability, stability, and long‐term performance. Recent studies on self‐healing soft sensors for varying chemical and physical parameters are herein reviewed. In addition, contemporary studies on material design, device structure, and fabrication methods for sensing platforms are also discussed. Finally, the main challenges and future perspectives in this field are introduced, while focusing on the most promising examples and directions already reported.
A Biodegradable Secondary Battery and its Biodegradation Mechanism for Eco‐Friendly Energy‐Storage Systems
Authors: Lee Myeong Hwan , Lee Jongha , Jung Sung‐Kyun , Kang Dayoung , Park Myung Soo , Cha Gi Doo , Cho Kyoung Won , Song Jun‐Hyuk , Moon Sehwan , Yun Young Soo , Kim Seok Joo , Lim Young Woon , Kim Dae‐Hyeong , Kang Kisuk
Published: February 2021

The production of rechargeable batteries is rapidly expanding, and there are going to be new challenges in the near future about how the potential environmental impact caused by the disposal of the large volume of the used batteries can be minimized. Herein, a novel strategy is proposed to address these concerns by applying biodegradable device technology. An eco‐friendly and biodegradable sodium‐ion secondary battery (SIB) is developed through extensive material screening followed by the synthesis of biodegradable electrodes and their seamless assembly with an unconventional biodegradable separator, electrolyte, and package. Each battery component decomposes in nature into non‐toxic compounds or elements via hydrolysis and/or fungal degradation, with all of the biodegradation products naturally abundant and eco‐friendly. Detailed biodegradation mechanisms and toxicity influence of each component on living organisms are determined. In addition, this new SIB delivers performance comparable to that of conventional non‐degradable SIBs. The strategy and findings suggest a novel eco‐friendly biodegradable paradigm for large‐scale rechargeable battery systems.
Deep Cycling for High‐Capacity Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xia Huarong , Tang Yuxin , Malyi Oleksandr I. , Zhu Zhiqiang , Zhang Yanyan , Zhang Wei , Ge Xiang , Zeng Yi , Chen Xiaodong
Published: February 2021

As the practical capacity of conventional Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) approaches the theoretical limit, which is determined by the rocking‐chair cycling architecture, a new cycling architecture with higher capacity is highly demanded for future development and electronic applications. Here, a deep‐cycling architecture intrinsically with a higher theoretical capacity limit than conventional rocking‐chair cycling architecture is developed, by introducing a follow‐up cycling process to contribute more capacity. The deep‐cycling architecture makes full use of movable ions in both of the electrolyte and electrodes for energy storage, rather than in either the electrolyte or the electrodes. Taking LiMn2O4‐mesocarbon microbeads (MCMB)/Li cells as a proof‐of‐concept, 57.7% more capacity is obtained. Moreover, the capacity retention is as high as 84.4% after 2000 charging/discharging cycles. The deep‐cycling architecture offers opportunities to break the theoretical capacity limit of conventional LIBs and makes high demands for new‐type of cathode materials, which will promote the development of next‐generation energy storage devices.
Recent Progress on Nanocellulose Aerogels: Preparation, Modification, Composite Fabrication, Applications
Authors: Chen Yiming , Zhang Lin , Yang Yang , Pang Bo , Xu Wenhui , Duan Gaigai , Jiang Shaohua , Zhang Kai
Published: February 2021

The rapid development of modern industry and excessive consumption of petroleum‐based polymers have triggered a double crisis presenting a shortage of nonrenewable resources and environmental pollution. However, this has provided an opportunity to stimulate researchers to harness native biobased materials for novel advanced materials and applications. Nanocellulose‐based aerogels, using abundant and sustainable cellulose as raw material, present a third‐generation of aerogels that combine traditional aerogels with high porosity and large specific surface area, as well as the excellent properties of cellulose itself. Currently, nanocellulose aerogels provide a highly attention‐catching platform for a wide range of functional applications in various fields, e.g., adsorption, separation, energy storage, thermal insulation, electromagnetic interference shielding, and biomedical applications. Here, the preparation methods, modification strategies, composite fabrications, and further applications of nanocellulose aerogels are summarized, with additional discussions regarding the prospects and potential challenges in future development.
Progress in Epitaxial Thin‐Film Na3Bi as a Topological Electronic Material
Authors: Di Bernardo Iolanda , Hellerstedt Jack , Liu Chang , Akhgar Golrokh , Wu Weikang , Yang Shengyuan A. , Culcer Dimitrie , Mo Sung‐Kwan , Adam Shaffique , Edmonds Mark T. , Fuhrer Michael S.
Published: February 2021

Trisodium bismuthide (Na3Bi) is the first experimentally verified topological Dirac semimetal, and is a 3D analogue of graphene hosting relativistic Dirac fermions. Its unconventional momentum–energy relationship is interesting from a fundamental perspective, yielding exciting physical properties such as chiral charge carriers, the chiral anomaly, and weak anti‐localization. It also shows promise for realizing topological electronic devices such as topological transistors. Herein, an overview of the substantial progress achieved in the last few years on Na3Bi is presented, with a focus on technologically relevant large‐area thin films synthesized via molecular beam epitaxy. Key theoretical aspects underpinning the unique electronic properties of Na3Bi are introduced. Next, the growth process on different substrates is reviewed. Spectroscopic and microscopic features are illustrated, and an analysis of semiclassical and quantum transport phenomena in different doping regimes is provided. The emergent properties arising from confinement in two dimensions, including thickness‐dependent and electric‐field‐driven topological phase transitions, are addressed, with an outlook toward current challenges and expected future progress.
Experimental Demonstration of Dual‐Band Nano‐Electromechanical Valley‐Hall Topological Metamaterials
Authors: Ma Jingwen , Xi Xiang , Sun Xiankai
Published: February 2021

Suppression of undesired backscattering of very‐high‐frequency elastic signals has been considered as a grand challenge in integrated phononic circuits. Originating from condensed‐matter physics, valley‐Hall topological insulators provide an intriguing strategy to overcome this challenge. To date, phononic valley‐Hall topological insulators have been demonstrated only in bulk acoustic and mechanical systems operating at relatively low frequencies. Here, an integrated nano‐electromechanical valley‐Hall topological insulator operating in the very‐high‐frequency regime is experimentally realized. Valley kink states that are backscattering‐immune against sharp bends and exhibit the “valley‐momentum locking” effect simultaneously in the fundamental (≈60 MHz) and second‐order (≈120 MHz) frequency bands are demonstrated. It is further shown that the propagation directions of these dual‐band valley kink states are always locked to their valley pseudospins. The results not only enable various applications in very‐high‐frequency integrated phononic circuits with enhanced robustness and capacity, but also open the door to experimental exploration of mechanical nonlinearities, particularly those involving the fundamental and second‐order frequencies, in topologically nontrivial nanostructures.
Electron Density‐Change in Semiconductor by Ion‐Adsorption at Solid–Liquid Interface
Authors: Lee Won Hyung , Yoon Sun Geun , Jin Huding , Yoo Jeeyoung , Han Junghyup , Cho Yong Hyun , Kim Youn Sang
Published: February 2021

The change in electrical properties of electrodes by adsorption or desorption at interfaces is a well‐known phenomenon required for signal production in electrically transduced sensing technologies. Furthermore, in terms of electrolyte–insulator–semiconductor (EIS) structure, several studies of energy conversion techniques focused on ion‐adsorption at the solid–liquid interface have suggested that the electric signal is generated by ionovoltaic phenomena. However, finding substantial clues for the ion‐adsorption phenomena in the EIS structure is still a difficult task because direct evidence for carrier accumulation in semiconductors by Coulomb interactions is insufficient. Here, a sophisticated Hall measurement system is demonstrated to quantitatively analyze accumulated electron density‐change inside the semiconductor depending on the ion‐adsorption at the solid–liquid interface. Also, an enhanced EIS‐structured device is designed in an aqueous‐soaked system that works with the ionovoltaic principle to monitor the ion‐dynamics in liquid electrolyte media, interestingly confirming ion‐concentration dependence and ion‐specificity by generated peak voltages. This newly introduced peculiar method contributes to an in‐depth understanding of the ionovoltaic phenomena in terms of carrier actions in the semiconductors and ionic behaviors in the aqueous‐bulk phases, providing informative analysis about interfacial adsorptions that can expand the scope of ion‐sensing platforms.
Defect Mediated Small Molecular Doping of Graphene
Authors: S Ragul , Dutta Soumya , Ray Debdutta
Published: February 2021

It is shown that the improved electrical properties of graphene on organic small‐molecule‐based surface doping is dominated by the doping effect of these materials at the defect sites on graphene. It is hypothesized that this may be due to the healing effect of semi‐bulk substitution‐like doping at the defect sites. In this study, defects are intentionally created with varying densities on graphene by exposing it to trifluoro methane (CHF3) plasma for different time periods. The films are then doped by solution spin coating of bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonamide (TFSA). The measured change in electrical conductivity is proportional to the defect density of the graphene, implying a healing effect of these organic small molecular dopants. First principles calculations are performed to capture this mechanism, and the results conform with the experimental observations. The introduction of defects leads to a modulation of the workfunction while adversely affecting the charge carrier transport properties. It is shown that subsequent TFSA doping aids in healing the defective sites thereby improving conduction while maintaining the changed workfunction. The two processes act in tandem for the enhanced electrical properties of graphene.
Can digital technologies reshape rural microfinance? Implications for savings, credit, & insurance
Authors: Benami Elinor , Carter Michael R.
Published: February 2021

Rural microfinance must contend with the triple challenges of isolation, small‐scale transactions, and risk. These challenges result in information asymmetries and transaction costs that render markets for financial services costly or missing. This paper examines how emerging digital technologies (e.g., mobile money, digital credit scoring, and earth observation) can reshape rural markets for savings, credit, and insurance services, especially in developing countries. Although our synthesis of the literature suggests reason for hope in all three domains, the imperfections of these digital technologies require evaluation and oversight if the resulting rural financial system is to be more efficient and equitable than its predecessor.

JEL CLASSIFICATION

D14; F63; R51
Overexpression of sugarcane SoTUA gene enhances cold tolerance in transgenic sugarcane
Authors: Chen Jiao‐Yun , Khan Qaisar , Sun Bo , Tang Li‐Hua , Yang Li‐Tao , Zhang Bao‐Qing , Xiu Xing‐Yong , Dong Deng‐Feng , Li Yang‐Rui
Published: February 2021

Alpha (α)–tubulin (TUA) is a primary unit of cytoskeleton microtubules. In recent years, more frequent frosts have caused considerable yield loss in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) production. Temperature is one of the most influential abiotic factors affecting the microtubule polymerization state in plants. In this research, we developed overexpressing SoTUA transgenic sugarcane lines from the cold‐susceptible cultivar ROC22. The transgene was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and quantificational real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) analysis, while the relative expression of SoTUA protein was verified by Western blot. Compared with the nontransformed control plants (wild type [WT]), the transgenic lines showed higher relative protein expression than the WT at 25 °C, which indicates the overexpression of SoTUA protein. The contents of soluble protein and sugar and the activity of peroxidase (POD) were higher while the content of maleicdialdehyde was lower in the transgenic plants than the WT plants under the chilling treatment. Meanwhile, the expression levels of cold‐defense related genes (P5CS, WRKY, Cu/Zn–SOD, and POD1) were higher in the transgenic lines than in the WT. These results suggest that the SoTUA protein plays an important role in protecting plants during chilling stress. This positive effect is not affected by transgenic plant generations.
Recent advances in precision medicine for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hayashi Hiromitsu , Higashi Takaaki , Miyata Tatsunori , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Baba Hideo
Published: February 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality worldwide. Although advances in systemic chemotherapy for PDAC have improved survival outcomes for patients with the disease, chemoresistance is a major treatment issue for unselected PDAC patient populations. The existence of heterogeneity caused by a mixture of tumor cells and stromal cells produces chemoresistance and limits the targeted therapy of PDAC. Advances in precision medicine for PDACs according to the genetics and molecular biology of this disease may represent the next alternative approach to overcome the heterogeneity of different patients and improve survival outcomes for this poor prognostic disease. The genetic alteration of PDAC is characterized by four genes that are frequently mutated (KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4). Furthermore, several genetic and molecular profiling studies have revealed that up to 25% of PDACs harbor actionable alterations. In particular, DNA repair dysfunction, including cases with BRCA mutations, is a causal element of sensitivity to platinum‐based anti‐cancer agents and poly‐ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. A deep understanding of the molecular and cellular crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment helps to establish scientifically rational treatment strategies for cancers that show specific molecular profiles. Here, we review recent advances in genetic analysis of PDACs and describe future perspectives in precision medicine according to molecular subtypes or actionable gene mutations for patients with PDAC. We believe the breakthroughs will soon emerge to fight this deadly disease.
Multi‐period design and planning model of shale gas field development
Authors: Peng Zedong , Li Can , Grossmann Ignacio E. , Kwon Kysang , Ko Sukjoon , Shin Joohyun , Feng Yiping
Published: February 2021

Long‐term design and planning of shale gas field development is challenging due to the complex development operations and a wide range of candidate locations. In this work, we focus on the multi‐period shale gas field development problem, where the shale gas field has multiple formations and each well can be developed from one of several alternative pads. The decisions in this problem involve the design of the shale gas network and the planning of development operations. A mixed‐integer linear programming (MILP) model is proposed to address this problem. Since the proposed model is a large‐scale MILP, we propose a solution pool‐based bilevel decomposition algorithm to solve it. Results on realistic instances demonstrate the value of the proposed model and the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Scaling up microreactors for kilogram‐scale synthesis of piperacillin: Experiments and computational fluid dynamics simulations
Authors: Xie Yu , Chen Qiang , Huang Guoming , Wang Yujun , Hu Weiguo , Yan Zhengren , Wang Xin , Huang Juan , Gao Mingtang , Fei Weiyang , Luo Guangsheng
Published: February 2021

In this study, two membrane dispersion microreactors in series are used to synthesize piperacillin with low impurity content in kilogram scale. By combining experiments and computational fluid dynamics simulations, the membrane size and cross‐sectional area are scaled up from 2 mm × 0.7 mm and 2 mm × 1 mm to 6.5 mm × 2.5 mm and 6.5 mm × 3.5 mm, respectively, and the reaction time is extended from ~10 to ~60 min, which achieves that the synthesis scale of each batch is increased from 15 g to 1 kg. Subsequently, the effects of distance between ammonia feed and 4‐ethyl‐2,3‐dioxo‐1‐piperazine carbonyl chloride feed, pH, circulation flow rate, and dispersed phase flow rate on solution concentration are discussed. The final piperacillin product with an average yield of ~94.70%, a purity exceeding 99.7%, the impurity D content ~0.077% and E content ~0.045%, satisfies the requirements of pharmacopeia regarding antibiotic impurities.
Family and School Connectedness Associated with Lower Depression among Latinx Early Adolescents in an Agricultural County
Authors: Raymond‐Flesch Marissa , Browne Erica N. , Auerswald Colette , Minnis Alexandra M.
Published: February 2021

Depression constitutes one of the greatest sources of morbidity and mortality for U.S. adolescents. Latinx are the fastest growing U.S. adolescent population, particularly in rural communities, and suffer from depression at higher rates than other racial/ethnic groups. Informed by community perspectives on adolescent health, we examined factors associated with depression among Latinx early adolescents in an agricultural community. We surveyed 599 predominantly Latinx 8th graders (12 to 15 years old) recruited from middle schools in Salinas, California. Depression was measured cross‐sectionally with the Patient Health Questionnaire‐8. Exposures included environmental, cultural, and family factors, assessed using validated measures. We used hierarchical logistic regression guided by Garcia Coll’s Model for the Study of Developmental Competencies in Minority Children to examine associations between protective factors within each domain and depression. Eighty‐six of the 599 youth (14%) scored above the clinical threshold for depression, with higher prevalence among females (19%) than males (10%), p = .001. Environmental (school connectedness and neighborhood social cohesion) and family factors were associated with a lower odds of depression (all p ≤ .01). Social cohesion in neighborhoods and family communication offered similarly strong protective associations with depression. Increased language assimilation was associated with an increased odds of depression (p = .007).
Use of joinpoint regressions to evaluate changes over time in conscript height
Authors: Terán José Manuel , Sánchez‐García Elena , Martínez‐Carrión José‐Miguel , Bogin Barry , Varea Carlos
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Cohort variation in adult height expresses both the impact of socio‐economic change on human biology in a wide temporal perspective and social inequalities within populations. We aimed to test the use of joinpoint regressions to identify periods in which changes in height trends were statistically significant.

Methods

Data correspond to the height recorded in Madrid City (Spain) for 65 313 conscripts between 1936 and 1974 (cohorts from 1915 to 1953), a period of social and political turmoil. Secular trends in height were analyzed in eight districts with contrasting socio‐economic conditions, grouped in two categories, lower‐class and middle‐ and upper‐class. Trends in height were evaluated by quadratic regressions and by joinpoint regressions to identify the cut‐off years when trends changed significantly.

Results

Height increased in both socio‐economic categories of districts, more among conscripts from the lower‐class ones. However, results clearly show differences in trends according to district of residence. Whereas the increase in height in conscripts from the middle‐ and upper‐class districts was steady, it was slower in those from the lower classes, with declines in height during the Civil War and first years of the Franco dictatorship.

Conclusions

Joinpoint analysis reveals the association between urban living conditions and adult height, and that the disparities intensified during critical historical periods of Spain.
The factor structure of the macaque social responsiveness scale‐revised predicts social behavior and personality dimensions
Authors: Talbot Catherine F. , Maness Alyssa C. , Capitanio John P. , Parker Karen J.
Published: February 2021

Most primate species are highly social. Yet, within species, pronounced individual differences in social functioning are evident. In humans, the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) measures variation in social functioning. The SRS provides a quantitative measure of social functioning in natural social settings and can be used as a screening tool for autistic traits. The SRS was previously adapted for use in chimpanzees and recently refined for rhesus macaques, resulting in the macaque Social Responsiveness Scale‐Revised (mSRS‐R). Here, we performed an exploratory factor analysis on the mSRS‐R in a large sample of male rhesus macaques (N = 233). We investigated the relationships of the resulting mSRS‐R factors to quantitative social behavior (alone, proximity, contact, groom, and play) and to previously‐established personality dimensions (Sociability, Confidence, Irritability, and Equability). Factor analysis yielded three mSRS‐R factors: Poor Social Motivation, Poor Social Attractiveness, and Inappropriate Behavior. mSRS‐R factors mapped closely to social behavior and personality dimensions in rhesus macaques, providing support for this instrument's convergent and discriminant validity. Animals with higher Poor Social Motivation were more likely to be observed alone and less likely to be observed in contact and grooming with conspecifics. Animals with higher Poor Social Attractiveness were less likely to be observed playing but more likely to be observed grooming with conspecifics. Inappropriate Behavior did not predict any behavioral measure. Finally, animals with higher Poor Social Motivation and higher Poor Social Attractiveness had less sociable personalities, whereas animals with more Inappropriate Behavior were more confident and more irritable. These findings suggest that the mSRS‐R is a promising, psychometrically robust tool that can be deployed to better understand the psychological factors contributing to individual differences in macaque social functioning and, with relevant species‐specific modification, the SRS may hold promise for investigating variation in social functioning across diverse primate taxa.
Clinical characteristics and cytokine profiles of central‐compartment‐type chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Lin Yi‐Tsen , Lin Chih‐Feng , Liao Chun‐Kang , Chiang Bor‐Luen , Yeh Te‐Huei
Published: February 2021

Background

The clinical characteristics of central‐compartment‐type chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in East Asian individuals are not clear. We sought to investigate the clinical features and the cytokine profiles of central‐compartment‐type CRS in our patient group.

Methods

Adult patients diagnosed with bilateral CRS were recruited, and patients who had previously undergone sinus surgery and pansinusitis (Lund‐Mackay scores >23) were excluded. Central‐compartment‐type CRS was defined by both endoscopic and radiological features. The symptoms, inhalant allergen sensitization status, endoscopic findings, and radiological assessments were recorded and compared between patients with central‐compartment‐type CRS and other types of CRS. We also examined the extent of tissue eosinophilia and specific cytokine protein levels (eosinophil cationic protein [ECP], myeloperoxidase [MPO], immunoglobulin E [IgE], interleukin [IL]‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐13) in the sinonasal tissues.

Results

Central‐compartment‐type CRS was found in 16 (23.9%) patients, and non–central‐compartment‐type CRS was found in 51 (76.1%) patients. Hyposmia or anosmia as the major symptom was more common in the central‐compartment‐type CRS group. The numbers of eosinophils in tissue and serum were significantly higher in the central‐compartment‐type CRS patients. The presence of allergen sensitization was not significantly different between groups. The levels of IL‐5 and IL‐13 were increased in middle turbinate tissues of patients with central‐compartment‐type CRS.

Conclusion

Central‐compartment‐type CRS was associated with hyposmia or anosmia, eosinophilic subtypes, and elevated levels of IL‐5 and IL‐13 in middle turbinate tissues but not necessarily correlated with allergic disease in our patients.
Multiple Appointments, Multiple Biases: The U.K. Supreme Court Does Arbitrator Disclosure
Authors: Samuel Adam
Published: February 2021

The U.K. Supreme Court's decision in Halliburton Co. v. Chubb Bermuda Insurance Ltd., [2020] UKSC 48 (available at http://bit.ly/3oZEOu0) (case page can be found at http://bit.ly/2qP6067), on arbitrator bias and nondisclosure, may be one of those occasions that is more relevant because of the background information than what the court actually decided.
Associations among education, age, and the dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) metabolic pattern: A European‐DLB consortium project
Authors: Bauckneht Matteo , Chincarini Andrea , Brendel Matthias , Rominger Axel , Beyer Leonie , Bruffaerts Rose , Vandenberghe Rik , Kramberger Milica G. , Trost Maja , Garibotto Valentina , Nicastro Nicolas , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Lemstra Afina W. , van Berckel Bart N. M. , Pilotto Andrea , Padovani Alessandro , Ochoa‐Figueroa Miguel A. , Davidsson Anette , Camacho Valle , Peira Enrico , Arnaldi Dario , Pardini Matteo , Donegani Maria Isabella , Raffa Stefano , Miceli Alberto , Sambuceti Gianmario , Aarsland Dag , Nobili Flavio , Morbelli Silvia
Published: February 2021

Introduction

We assessed the influence of education as a proxy of cognitive reserve and age on the dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) metabolic pattern.

Methods

Brain 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and clinical/demographic information were available in 169 probable DLB patients included in the European DLB‐consortium database. Principal component analysis identified brain regions relevant to local data variance. A linear regression model was applied to generate age‐ and education‐sensitive maps corrected for Mini‐Mental State Examination score, sex (and either education or age).

Results

Age negatively covaried with metabolism in bilateral middle and superior frontal cortex, anterior and posterior cingulate, reducing the expression of the DLB‐typical cingulate island sign (CIS). Education negatively covaried with metabolism in the left inferior parietal cortex and precuneus (making the CIS more prominent).

Discussion

These findings point out the importance of tailoring interpretation of DLB biomarkers considering the concomitant effect of individual, non–disease‐related variables such as age and cognitive reserve.
Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Conjugate 1,6‐, 1,8‐, and 1,10‐Borylation
Authors: Shi Chang‐Yun , Eun Jungmin , Newhouse Timothy R. , Yin Liang
Published: February 2021

Catalytic asymmetric remote conjugate borylation is challenging as the control of regioselectivity is not trivial, the electrophilicity of remote sites is extenuated, and the remote asymmetric induction away from the carbonyl group is difficult. Herein, catalytic asymmetric conjugate 1,6‐, 1,8‐ and 1,10‐borylation was developed with excellent regioselectivity, which delivered α‐chiral boronates in moderate to high yields with high enantioselectivity. The produced chiral boronate smoothly underwent oxidation, cross‐coupling, and one‐carbon homologation to give synthetically versatile chiral compounds in moderate yields with excellent stereoretention. Furthermore, a stereomechanistic analysis was conducted using DFT calculations, which provides insights into the origins of the regioselectivity. Finally, the present 1,6‐borylation was successfully applied in an efficient one‐pot asymmetric synthesis of (−)‐7,8‐dihydrokavain.