bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacognostic Evaluation and Hepatoprotective Property of Crude and Fractions of Triumfetta cordifolia A. Rich. (Tiliaceae)
Authors: Ikenna Chikeokwu , Chiamaka Ene Erica , Theodora C. Mba , Odoh Uche Estella
Published: April 2023

Background: The role of phytochemicals in modern medicine is abundant with more evidence being published. Triumfetta cordifolia is a local plant known for its vast medicinal applications in traditional medicine with limited documented evidence. This study thus aims to evaluate the leaves of Triumfetta cordifolia to determine its Pharmacognostic parameters and  hepatoprotective potential.

Methodology: The leaves were collected, identified, dried and subsequently pulverized before maceration in methanol. This was followed by fractionation using different solvent with increasing polarities (n-hexane, n-butanol, ethyl acetate and aqueous methanol). Physicochemical evaluations such as macroscopy, organoleptic tests, qualitative phytochemical analysis and total phenolic content was subsequently conducted on the extracts. Finally, an acute toxicity test and hepatoprotective evaluation was performed, the latter using carbon tetrachloride.

Results: The leaves Triumfetta cordifolia on macroscopic evaluation  shown a simple, alternate, stipules triangular, densely stellate hairy leaves. The organoleptic evaluation indicated a pungent aromatic smell and a slightly bitter taste. Several phytochemicals such as tannins, saponins, glycosides, steroids and flavonoids were identified qualitatively.The extracts was safe at a dose less than 5,000mg/kg. The ethyl acetate fraction showed consistent hepatoprotective activity at a concentration of 400 mg/kg when compared to Gallic acid (positive control). This was possibly due to its high composition of phenolic compounds which was recorded during the study.

Conclusion: The ethyl acetate fraction of  Triumfetta cordifolia leaves exhibited a hepatoprotective effect thus showcasing the potential benefits of the plant in mitigating liver damage. More research is however needed to identify specific compounds being extracted that may be responsible for the activity recorded in this study.
PMSM Speed Control Using an Enhanced State Feedback Controller and Linear Quadratic Regulator for Effective Drive System
Authors: Omeje Crescent Onyebuchi , Esobinenwu Chizindu Stanley
Published: April 2023

This paper introduced an effective method for regulating and controlling the speed of PMSMs (permanent magnet synchronous motors) by linearizing the non-linear and time-varying equations that model the PMSM dynamics. This method was achieved by utilizing an improved state feedback controller along with a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) to determine an optimal performance index. In order to assess external load torque disturbances in the system, a disturbance observer (DO) method was employed. Additionally, a sliding mode observer was utilized in conjunction with the disturbance observer to control motor speed. Simulations were conducted to compare the state feedback controller with a conventional PI- controller. The results showed that the state feedback controller achieved a robust as well as improved speed and torque dynamic performance with a reduced steady-state error percentage of 24.17% and 23.51%, as compared to 38.0% and 38.37% obtained using a PI-controller. The derived state feedback matrix (K), based on Ackerman’s rule, demonstrated that the entire system is controllable and that the performance index is marginally stable. All simulations were achieved in MATLAB/SIMULINK 2021 version.
Study on Method of Doping Au Nanoparticles on ZnO Stratified Microstructure to Enhance Photocatalytic Ability and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Vu Anh Tuan , Pham Thi Anh Tuyet
Published: April 2023

In this study, stratified microstructure gold/zinc oxide (Au/ZnO) composites were successfully prepared by the method of dispersing Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) on the surface of the hierarchical flower ZnO via HAuCl4 reduction in the presence of different reducing agents such as sodium citrate (SC), sodium borohydride (SB), sodium hydroxide and ethanol (SE), and Hg lamp 250W. Au-doped samples were named Au/ZnO-SC, Au/ZnO-SB, Au/ZnO-SE, and Au/ZnO-Hg lamp, respectively. Au/ZnO-SC and Au/ZnO-SB revealed the uniform distribution of Au nanoparticles on the ZnO substrate, meanwhile, Au nanoparticles were very densely distributed in Au/ZnO-SE and Au/ZnO-Hg lamp samples. The pure ZnO only showed an absorption peak in the ultraviolet (UV) region, Au/ZnO samples indicated additional absorption peaks in the visible light region (500-600 nm), which were characteristic of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of Au NPs in composites. Therefore, their bandgap energy was reduced compared to ZnO (3.202 eV), leading to increased photocatalytic efficiency under visible light irradiation. Among the doped samples, Au/ZnO-SC (with Au content as 5 wt%) had the largest surface area (26.23 m2/g) and the highest pore volume (0.263 cm3/g) and average pore width (33.2 nm). As a result, it showed the highest catalytic efficiency through complete degradation of tartrazine (TA) within 30 min with a reaction rate of 0.124 min−1 under Hg lamp 250 irradiation. In addition, both pure ZnO and Au/ZnO nanocomposites exhibited high antimicrobial activity in killing Escherichia coli (E. coli), and their enhancing effect of them was reliant on the weight ratio of Au on ZnO and the concentration of tested samples. These results indicated that Au/ZnO material has prominent potential for applications in water environment treatment. Copyright © 2023 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Nonfatal Firearm Injury and Firearm Mortality in High-risk Youths and Young Adults 25 Years After Detention
Authors: Zheng Nanzi , Abram Karen M. , Welty Leah J. , Aaby David A. , Meyerson Nicholas S. , Teplin Linda A.
Published: April 2023

Importance

Youths, especially Black and Hispanic males, are disproportionately affected by firearm violence. Yet, no epidemiologic studies have examined the incidence rates of nonfatal firearm injury and firearm mortality in those who may be at greatest risk—youths who have been involved with the juvenile justice system.

Objectives

To examine nonfatal firearm injury and firearm mortality in youths involved with the juvenile justice system and to compare incidence rates of firearm mortality with the general population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Northwestern Juvenile Project is a 25-year prospective longitudinal cohort study of 1829 youths after juvenile detention in Chicago, Illinois. Youths were randomly sampled by strata (sex, race and ethnicity, age, and legal status [juvenile or adult court]) at intake from the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center. Participants were interviewed at baseline (November 1995 to June 1998) and reinterviewed as many as 13 times over 16 years, through February 2015. Official records on mortality were collected through December 2020. Data analysis was conducted from November 2018 to August 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Participants self-reported nonfatal firearm injuries. Firearm deaths were identified from county and state records and collateral reports. Data on firearm deaths in the general population were obtained from the Illinois Department of Public Health. Population counts were obtained from the US census.

Results

The baseline sample of 1829 participants included 1172 (64.1%) males and 657 (35.9%) females; 1005 (54.9%) Black, 524 (28.6%) Hispanic, 296 (16.2%) non-Hispanic White, and 4 (0.2%) from other racial and ethnic groups (mean [SD] age, 14.9 [1.4] years). Sixteen years after detention, more than one-quarter of Black (156 of 575 [27.1%]) and Hispanic (103 of 387 [26.6%]) males had been injured or killed by firearms. Males had 13.6 (95% CI, 8.6-21.6) times the rate of firearm injury or mortality than females. Twenty-five years after the study began, 88 participants (4.8%) had been killed by a firearm. Compared with the Cook County general population, most demographic groups in the sample had significantly higher rates of firearm mortality (eg, rate ratio for males, 2.8; 95% CI, 2.0-3.9; for females: 6.5; 95% CI, 3.0-14.1; for Black males, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.7-3.7; for Hispanic males, 9.6; 95% CI, 6.2-15.0; for non-Hispanic White males, 23.0; 95% CI, 11.7-45.5).

Conclusions and Relevance

This is the first study to examine the incidence of nonfatal firearm injury and firearm mortality in youths who have been involved with the juvenile justice system. Reducing firearm injury and mortality in high-risk youths and young adults requires a multidisciplinary approach involving legal professionals, health care professionals, educators, street outreach workers, and public health researchers.
Lanthanum Oxide Nanoparticles Reinforced Collagen ƙ‐Carrageenan Hydroxyapatite Biocomposite as Angio‐Osteogenic Biomaterial for In Vivo Osseointegration and Bone Repair
Authors: Vijayan Vinu , Sreekumar Sreelekshmi , Ahina Kannoth Madappurakkal , Lakra Rachita , Kiran Manikantan Syamala
Published: April 2023

A composite biomatrix fabricated with collagen, ƙ‐carrageenan, hydroxyapatite reinforced with lanthanum oxide nanoparticles is explored as proangiogenic and osteogenic bone tissue repair biomaterial. The biomatrix shows increased physical and biological stability as observed from proteolytic degradation and thermal stability studies. The addition of lanthanum oxide nanoparticles facilitates good osseointegration coupled with simultaneous activation of proangiogenic properties to act as a bone mimicking material. The minimal level of reactive oxygen species and superior cytocompatibility help the as‐synthesized biomatrix in achieving capillary migration into the bone micro environment. The composite biomatrix upregulates the expression of VEGF, VEGF‐R2 genes in endothelial cells and osteopontin, osteocalcin in osteoblasts cells, respectively. The in vivo hard tissue repair experiment conducted in a rat model shows complete healing of the bone defect by eight weeks with the application of collagen‐ƙ‐carrageenan‐hydroxyapatite‐lanthanum oxide nanoparticle biomaterial when compared to the biomaterial made out of individual constituents alone. The biomaterial matrix gets biointegrated into the bone tissue and exerts its therapeutic value in bringing a faster osseo repair process. The study shows the feasibility of using rare‐earth metal nanoparticles in combination with protein‐polysaccharide biopolymers for bone regeneration.
Enhancement of Elevated‐Temperature Strength in Al–Cu–Ce–Mn–Zr Cast Aluminum Alloy Through Ni Alloying
Authors: Su Xiang , Qu Hongjie , Bu Chuncheng , Hou Rui , Qi Zhixiang , Cao Yuede , Siddique Suniya , Jiang Liyi , Liu Yuhang
Published: April 2023

Herein, to enhance the elevated‐temperature strength of heat‐resistant aluminum alloys to satisfy application requirements, the effect of Ni content (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 wt%) on the microstructures and tensile properties of Al–8.4Cu–2.3Ce–1.0Mn–0.2Zr alloy is investigated. The metallographic analysis techniques are used to quantitatively examine the microstructural changes. The skeleton‐like Al7Cu4Ni phase is formed after the addition of Ni and its morphology is gradually transformed into a coarse reticular‐like shape with Ni content increasing. However, the thermally stable Al8CeCu4 and Al24MnCu8Ce3 phases disappear when Ni content exceeds 1.0%. Al–8.4Cu–2.3Ce–1.0Mn–0.2Zr–0.5Ni alloy exhibits the optimal elevated‐temperature tensile performance at 400 °C, and its ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation at 400 °C reach 105, 85 MPa, and 16.5%, respectively. The optimal tensile performance is attributed to synergistic enhancing action of the thermostable Al8CeCu4, Al24MnCu8Ce3, Al16Cu4Mn2Ce, and Al7Cu4Ni phases at the grain boundaries and the nano‐sized Al20Cu2Mn3 and Al2Cu precipitates inside the grains. The typical brittle fracture is dominating in the five alloys with different Ni contents at ambient temperature, but the fracture mode at 400 °C is changed from ductile fracture to ductile and brittle mixed fracture with the increase of Ni.
Brightened Bicomponent Perovskite Nanocomposite Based on Förster Resonance Energy Transfer for Micro‐LED Displays
Authors: Fan Xiaotong , Wang Shuli , Yang Xiao , Zhong Chenming , Chen Guolong , Yu Changzhi , Chen Yihang , Wu Tingzhu , Kuo Hao‐Chung , Lin Yue , Chen Zhong
Published: April 2023

Lead halide perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) are making their way toward next‐generation display applications, such as serving as color conversion layers in micro‐light‐emitting‐diode (micro‐LED) arrays. Red PQDs containing iodine exhibit weaker brightness compared with their green counterpart when employed as color conversion layers. Therefore, PQDs with enhanced brightness are highly favorable for micro/mini‐LED displays. A universal strategy of bicomponent perovskite nanocomposite (BPNC) with significantly enhanced photoluminescence (PL) intensity is proposed through the built‐in Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from the core CsPbBr3 to the shell γ‐CsPbI3, and it is confirmed that it is through a pair of combined quasi‐degenerate energy levels in the blue spectra region that the FRET is conducted, resulting in a high excitation wavelength selectivity. Owing to the highly efficient energy transition route from blue excitation to red emission established by the FRET, the BPNC exhibits the brightest single‐peak red photoluminescence with near 100% quantum yield. The BPNC with FRET is further proven to be adaptable to a wide range of emission wavelengths. The BPNCs in a blue micro‐LED array are employed as color downconversion layers, and excellent color conversion properties and high color gamut are demonstrated. This strategy of BPNC paves a road to the full‐color micro‐LED displays.
Improved Silicon Surface Passivation by ALD Al2O3/SiO2 Multilayers with In‐Situ Plasma Treatments
Authors: Richter Armin , Patel Hemangi , Reichel Christian , Benick Jan , Glunz Stefan W.
Published: April 2023

Al2O3 is one of the most effective dielectric surface passivation layers for silicon solar cells, but recent studies indicate that there is still room for improvement. Instead of a single layer, multilayers of only a few nanometers thickness offer the possibility to tailor material properties on a nanometer scale. In this study, the effect of various plasma treatments performed at different stages during the ALD deposition of Al2O3/SiO2 multilayers on the silicon surface passivation quality is evaluated. Significant improvements in surface passivation quality for some plasma treatments are observed, particularly for single Al2O3/SiO2 bilayers treated with a H2 plasma after SiO2 deposition. This treatment resulted in a surface recombination parameter J0 as low as 0.35 fA cm−2 on (100) surfaces of 10 Ω cm n‐type silicon, more than a factor of 5 lower than that of Al2O3 single layers without plasma treatment. Capacitance‐voltage measurements indicate that the improved surface passivation of the plasma‐treated samples results from an enhanced chemical interface passivation rather than an improved field effect. In addition, a superior temperature stability of the surface passivation quality is found for various plasma‐treated multilayers.
Employing Surface Curvature for Spatially Resolved X‐Ray Reflectivity: Graphene Domains on Liquid Copper
Authors: Belova Valentina , Jankowski Maciej , Saedi Mehdi , Groot Irene M. N. , Renaud Gilles , Konovalov Oleg V.
Published: April 2023

Here the possibility of utilizing X‐ray reflectivity for visualization with ≈µm spatial resolution of a surface with a heterogeneous electron density due to a partial coverage by another nanometrically thin material is demonstrated. It requires the sample to be convexly bent, thus reflecting the collimated incident beam onto a magnified image recorded by a position‐sensitive detector. By the use of a small, intense, and parallel beam such as provided by the most recent synchrotron sources, one can record such spatially resolved X‐ray reflectivity with 0.1–1 kHz frame rate. The use of the method for in situ, time‐resolved characterization of single‐layer graphene domains during their chemical vapor deposition on a naturally curved surface of a liquid copper drop is demonstrated. This method can follow the growth kinetics, including the coverage ratio, 2D crystal (flake) sizes, and distances between flakes. By taking a single scan, the individual X‐ray reflectivity curves can be reconstructed, of both covered and noncovered parts of the surface, allowing to deduce the corresponding electron density profiles perpendicular to the surface. The technique has a promising perspective for in situ study of 2D materials, ultrathin films, and self‐assemblies on liquid as well as solid surfaces.
Waveguide‐Integrated Two‐Dimensional Material Photodetectors in Thin‐Film Lithium Niobate
Authors: Zhu Sha , Zhang Yiwen , Ren Yi , Wang Yongji , Zhai Kunpeng , Feng Hanke , Jin Ya , Lin Zezhou , Feng Jiaxue , Li Siyuan , Yang Qi , Zhu Ning Hua , Pun Edwin Yue-Bun , Wang Cheng
Published: April 2023

Thin‐film lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) is a promising platform for optical communications, microwave photonics, and quantum technologies. While many high‐performance devices like electro‐optic modulators and frequency comb sources have been achieved on LNOI platform, it remains challenging to realize photodetectors (PDs) on LNOI platform using simple and low‐cost fabrication techniques. 2D materials are excellent candidates to achieve photodetection since they feature strong light‐matter interaction, excellent mechanical flexibility, and potential large‐scale complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor‐compatible fabrication. Herein, this demand is addressed using an LNOI‐2D material platform, and two types of high‐performance LNOI waveguide‐integrated 2D material PDs, namely graphene and tellurium (Te), are addressed. Specifically, the LNOI‐graphene PDs feature broadband operations at telecom and visible wavelengths, high normalized photocurrent‐to‐dark current ratios up to 3 × 106 W−1, and large 3‐dB photoelectric bandwidths of ≈40 GHz, simultaneously. The LNOI‐Te PDs on the other hand provide ultrahigh responsivities of 7 A W−1 under 0.5 V bias for telecom signals while supporting GHz frequency responses. The results show that the versatile properties of 2D materials and their excellent compatibility with LNOI waveguides could provide important low‐cost solutions for system operating point monitoring and high‐speed photoelectric conversion in future LNOI photonic integrated circuits.
Epigenetic Control of Translation Checkpoint and Tumor Progression via RUVBL1‐EEF1A1 Axis
Authors: Li Mingli , Yang Lu , Chan Anthony K. N. , Pokharel Sheela Pangeni , Liu Qiao , Mattson Nicole , Xu Xiaobao , Chang Wen‐Han , Miyashita Kazuya , Singh Priyanka , Zhang Leisi , Li Maggie , Wu Jun , Wang Jinhui , Chen Bryan , Chan Lai N. , Lee Jaewoong , Zhang Xu Hannah , Rosen Steven T. , Müschen Markus , Qi Jun , Chen Jianjun , Hiom Kevin , Bishop Alexander J. R. , Chen Chun‐Wei
Published: April 2023

Epigenetic dysregulation is reported in multiple cancers including Ewing sarcoma (EwS). However, the epigenetic networks underlying the maintenance of oncogenic signaling and therapeutic response remain unclear. Using a series of epigenetics‐ and complex‐focused CRISPR screens, RUVBL1, the ATPase component of NuA4 histone acetyltransferase complex, is identified to be essential for EwS tumor progression. Suppression of RUVBL1 leads to attenuated tumor growth, loss of histone H4 acetylation, and ablated MYC signaling. Mechanistically, RUVBL1 controls MYC chromatin binding and modulates the MYC‐driven EEF1A1 expression and thus protein synthesis. High‐density CRISPR gene body scan pinpoints the critical MYC interacting residue in RUVBL1. Finally, this study reveals the synergism between RUVBL1 suppression and pharmacological inhibition of MYC in EwS xenografts and patient‐derived samples. These results indicate that the dynamic interplay between chromatin remodelers, oncogenic transcription factors, and protein translation machinery can provide novel opportunities for combination cancer therapy.
Superior Energy Density Achieved in Unfilled Tungsten Bronze Ferroelectrics via Multiscale Regulation Strategy
Authors: Peng Haonan , Liu Zhen , Fu Zhengqian , Dai Kai , Lv Zhongqian , Guo Shaobo , Hu Zhigao , Xu Fangfang , Wang Genshui
Published: April 2023

The most promising candidates for energy storage capacitor application are relaxor ferroelectrics, among which, the perovskite structure ferroelectric ceramics have witnessed great development progress. However, less attention has been paid on tetragonal tungsten bronze structure (TTBS) ceramics because of their lower breakdown strength and polarization. Herein, a multiscale regulation strategy is proposed to tune the energy storage performances (ESP) of TTBS ceramics from grain, domain, and macroscopic scale. The enhanced relaxor behavior with dynamic polar nanodomains guarantees low remanent polarization, while the refined grains and enlarged bandgap ensure increased breakdown strength. Hence, excellent ESP is realized in unfilled TTBS Sr0.425La0.1□0.05Ba0.425Nb1.4Ta0.6O6 (SLBNT) ceramics with an ultrahigh recoverable energy density of 5.895 J cm−3 and a high efficiency of 85.37%. This achievement notably surpasses previous studies in TTBS ceramics and is comparable to that of perovskite components. Meanwhile, the energy density exhibits a wide temperature, frequency, and cycling fatigue stability. In addition, high power density (257.89 MW cm−3), especially the ultrafast discharge time (t0.9 = 16.4 ns) are achieved. The multiscale regulation strategy unlocks the energy storage potential of TTBS ceramics and thus highlights TTBS ceramics as promising candidates for energy storage, like perovskite structured ceramics.
Investigating the Electromechanical Behavior of Unconventionally Ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2‐Based Capacitors Through Operando Nanobeam X‐Ray Diffraction
Authors: Stylianidis Evgenios , Surabhi Pranav , Hamming‐Green Ruben , Salverda Mart , Wei Yingfen , Burema Arjan , Matzen Sylvia , Banerjee Tamalika , Björling Alexander , Mukherjee Binayak , Dutta Sangita , Aramberri Hugo , Íñiguez Jorge , Noheda Beatriz , Carbone Dina , Nukala Pavan
Published: April 2023

Understanding various aspects of ferroelectricity in hafnia‐based nanomaterials is of vital importance for the development of future nonvolatile memory and logic devices. Here, the unconventional and weak electromechanical response of epitaxial La0.67Sr0.33MnO3/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 ferroelectric capacitors is investigated, via the sensitivity offered by nanobeam X‐ray diffraction experiments during application of electrical bias. It is shown that the pristine rhombohedral phase exhibits a linear piezoelectric effect with piezoelectric coefficient (|d33|) ≈ 0.5–0.8 pmV−1. It is found that the piezoelectric response is suppressed above the coercive voltage. For higher voltages, and with the onset of DC conductivity throughout the capacitor, a second‐order effect is observed. The work sheds light into the electromechanical response of rhombohedral Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 and suggests its (un)correlation with ferroelectric switching.
Wireless and Flexible Tactile Sensing Array Based on an Adjustable Resonator with Machine‐Learning Perception
Authors: Xu Baochun , Chen Da , Wang Yu , Tang Ruili , Yang Lina , Feng Hui , Liu Yijian , Wang Zhuopeng , Wang Fei , Zhang Tong
Published: April 2023

Intelligent soft robotics and wearable electronics require flexible, wireless radio frequency (RF) pressure sensors for human‐like tactile perception of their moving parts. Existing devices face two challenges for array extension: the construction of sensitive units over a limited area and the handling of resonant peaks overlapping within the channel width. Herein, a simply adjustable RF‐resonator‐based tactile array (RFTA) is reported, in which the initial frequency of each resonator unit is regulated by doping polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) dielectric layers with various concentrations of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). An array is constructed using four sensor units with a frequency interval of 15 MHz and a multi‐layer micropyramid structure is employed to obtain a low detection limit (<1 Pa) and high sensitivity (17.49 MHz kPa‐1 in the low‐pressure range). A machine‐learning‐based strategy identifies tactile positions precisely via a one‐time S11 reading, achieving 98.5% accuracy with six stimulation modes. Furthermore, the RFTA distinguishes six objects during the grasping process when installed on a soft manipulator. The device shows considerable potential to be extended for flexible moving scenarios and high‐integrated tactile sensing systems for soft robotics.
Uncovering the Different Components of Contact Resistance to Atomically Thin Semiconductors
Authors: Ber Emanuel , Grady Ryan W. , Pop Eric , Yalon Eilam
Published: April 2023

Achieving good electrical contacts is one of the major challenges in realizing devices based on atomically thin 2D semiconductors. Several studies have examined this hurdle, but a universal understanding of the contact resistance (Rc) and an underlying approach to its reduction are currently lacking. Here, the classical Rc transmission line model description of contacts to 2D materials is experimentally examined, and a modification based on an additional lateral resistance component, namely, the junction resistance (Rjun) is offered. A combination of transfer length method and contact‐end measurements to characterize contacts to monolayer MoS2 and separate the different Rc components is used. Technology computer‐aided design simulations are also used to study Rc in Fermi‐level pinned and unpinned contacts. This study finds that Rjun is the dominating component of Rc in atomically thin semiconductor devices, and is also responsible for most of the back‐gate bias and temperature dependence. The experimental results help understand the underlying physics of state‐of‐the‐art contact engineering in the context of minimizing Rjun.
Reconfigurable Innervation of Modular Soft Machines via Soft, Sticky, and Instant Electronic Adhesive Interlocking
Authors: Yoon Jaeyoung , Byun Junghwan , Park Minjo , Kim Hayun , Kim Woongbae , Yoon Jinsu , Cho Kyu-Jin , Hong Yongtaek
Published: April 2023

Adaptive and extreme changes in shape and configuration are the functional and morphological uniqueness of soft robots, but existing design approaches still rely on the predefined coordination of their “muscle” and “nerve” functions to produce such behaviors. Herein, a strategy is introduced for building modular soft machines that can be innervated in ways that conform to their body extension or shape changes, based on modular soft electronics. The development of soft electronic adhesive interlocking (SEAL) technology allows for instant, robust, and repeatable integration of soft electronic modules that can “innervate” and activate modular soft actuators and machines in a reconfigurable manner. Demonstrations of soft robotic tentacles and their grasping capability show that the robot function can be adapted to or reconfigured within the body with a length extended more than 10 times. The modular strategy presented herein can offer a unique promise to build up future robots with dynamic, reconfigurable functions.
Coming to the Caribbean—acclimation of Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) at Cayo Santiago
Authors: Francis George , Wang Qian
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To investigate whether the Cayo Santiago, Puerto Rico (Latitude: 18.1564°N; temperature range 19°C to 32°C) rhesus macaque population has acclimated to their tropical island conditions since arriving from Lucknow, India (Latitude: 26.8470°N; temperature range 8°C to 41°C) in 1938.

Materials and Methods

Using the derived skeletal collection, measurements were taken of long bone lengths, diaphyseal circumference, and body weight using 635 (237 males and 398 females) skeletally mature individuals. Measurements sampled colony members born over a 51‐year time span at Cayo Santiago, from 1951 to 2002.

Results

Results demonstrated that body weights and diaphyseal circumferences significantly declined in both males and females. Long bone lengths relative to body weight and diaphyseal circumference also increased in females. Whereas body weight, long bone length and diaphyseal circumference declined at near parallel rates in males.

Discussion

The population has acclimated to homogenous, tropical, conditions of the Caribbean island since their arrival over 80 years ago. Trends in both sexes aligned with Bergmann's rule, though females displayed a greater decline in body weight, as well as greater affinity with Allen's rule, than did males. Buffering effects related to male competition may be responsible for this discrepancy. Overall, the Cayo Santiago populations, as shown over a significant period (1951–2002) of their history, have acclimated to their island conditions by decreasing in size and altering body proportions.
The unique C‐mannosylated hypertrehalosemic hormone of Carausius morosus: Identity, release, and biological activity
Authors: Gäde Gerd , Marco Heather G.
Published: April 2023

Previous studies had shown that the corpora cardiaca (CC) of the Indian stick insect, Carausius morosus, synthesizes two hypertrehalosemic hormones (HrTHs)—decapeptides which differ in the way that the chromatographically less‐hydrophobic form, code‐named Carmo‐HrTH‐I, is modified by an unique C‐mannosylated tryptophan residue at position 8. The availability of milligram amounts of this modified peptide in synthetic form now makes it possible to study physico‐chemical and physiological properties. This study revealed that the synthetic peptide co‐elutes with the natural peptide from the CC chromatographically, is heat stable for at least 30 min at 100°C, and causes hyperlipemia in acceptor locusts (a heterologous bioassay) and hypertrehalosemia in ligated stick insects (conspecific bioassay). In vitro incubation of Carmo‐HrTH‐I together with stick insect hemolymph (a natural source of peptidases) demonstrated clearly via chromatographic separation that the C‐mannosylated Trp bond is stable and is not broken down to Carmo‐HrTH‐II (the more‐hydrophobic decapeptide with an unmodified Trp residue). This notwithstanding, breakdown of Carmo‐HrTH‐I did take place, and the half‐life of the compound was calculated as about 5 min. Finally, the natural peptide is releasable when CC are treated in vitro with a depolarizing saline (high potassium concentration) suggesting its role as true HrTHs in the stick insect. In conclusion, the results indicate that Carmo‐HrTH‐I which is synthesized in the CC is released into the hemolymph, binds to a HrTH receptor in the fat body, activates the carbohydrate metabolism pathway and is quickly inactivated in the hemolymph by (an) as yet unknown peptidase(s).
Effect of green marketing orientation dimensions on green innovation and organizational performance: A mediation‐moderation analysis
Authors: Negi Raghuveer , Gupta Amit Kumar , Gaur Vidhu
Published: April 2023

The study aims to explore the effect of dimensions of green marketing orientation (GMO) on green innovation and organizational performance utilizing the fundamental concepts of GMO theory, institutional theory, and resource‐based theory, or natural resource‐based view. In this research, we mainly explore the unplumbed effect of internal (IGMO), strategic (SGMO), and tactical green marketing orientation (TGMO) of the firm using the GMO theory. Although few scientific attempts tried to measure the effect of IGMO, SGMO, and TGMO, a majority of them disdained the idea of its integrated effect and adopted a futile approach while positioning these constructs in their model. In addition, we investigated stakeholders' role (moderating) in green innovation practices and organizational performance. The proposed model is tested using survey data collected from 201 top and middle‐level working professionals from manufacturing to service industries in India. We used a structured questionnaire and covariance‐based structure equation modeling for the path estimation. All three dimensions showed a direct positive significant effect on green innovation. Only tactical TGMO showed a direct effect on organizational performance, while the other two showed an indirect effect only on organizational performance mediated through green innovation. The study also established the moderating effect of stakeholders' view on the relationships between green innovation and organizational performance. Conclusively, we contribute to GMO theory by extending the scope for further academic/market validation and concurrently advancing managerial inferences for business strategists and market practitioners on sustainable organizational development.
Automated assessment of human engineered heart tissues using deep learning and template matching for segmentation and tracking
Authors: Rivera‐Arbeláez José M. , Keekstra Danjel , Cofiño‐Fabres Carla , Boonen Tom , Dostanic Milica , ten Den Simone A. , Vermeul Kim , Mastrangeli Massimo , van den Berg Albert , Segerink Loes I. , Ribeiro Marcelo C. , Strisciuglio Nicola , Passier Robert
Published: April 2023

The high rate of drug withdrawal from the market due to cardiovascular toxicity or lack of efficacy, the economic burden, and extremely long time before a compound reaches the market, have increased the relevance of human in vitro models like human (patient‐derived) pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)‐derived engineered heart tissues (EHTs) for the evaluation of the efficacy and toxicity of compounds at the early phase in the drug development pipeline. Consequently, the EHT contractile properties are highly relevant parameters for the analysis of cardiotoxicity, disease phenotype, and longitudinal measurements of cardiac function over time. In this study, we developed and validated the software HAARTA (Highly Accurate, Automatic and Robust Tracking Algorithm), which automatically analyzes contractile properties of EHTs by segmenting and tracking brightfield videos, using deep learning and template matching with sub‐pixel precision. We demonstrate the robustness, accuracy, and computational efficiency of the software by comparing it to the state‐of‐the‐art method (MUSCLEMOTION), and by testing it with a data set of EHTs from three different hPSC lines. HAARTA will facilitate standardized analysis of contractile properties of EHTs, which will be beneficial for in vitro drug screening and longitudinal measurements of cardiac function.
TP53 mutations predict poor response to immunotherapy in patients with metastatic solid tumors
Authors: Kim Ji‐Yeon , Jung Jaeyun , Kim Kyoung‐Mee , Lee Jeeyun , Im Young‐Hyuck
Published: April 2023

Background

TP53 is the most commonly mutated gene across all cancer types. R175H mutation was considered structural mutation where the mutation causes misfolding of the protein and leads to a significant conformational alterations within p53's DNA binding domain. The aim of this study was to explain the reason why R175H worse the response to immunotherapy by analyzing tumor immune microenvironment through the expression of immune cells and PD‐1.

Materials and Methods

Patients diagnosed with metastatic carcinoma, including colorectal cancer (CRC), breast cancer (BRCA), gastric cancer (GC), non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and 20 other cancer types, treated in a palliative setting at Samsung Medical Center between October 2019 and April 2021, were enrolled. Of these patients, those who underwent TDS analysis (TruSight™ Oncology 500 assay [TSO 500]) were finally analyzed.

Results

Of 1770 patients, 1012 (57.2%) harbored genetic alterations in TP53. All mutations were single nucleotide variants (SNVs), and the most frequent SNV was R175H (n = 84, 7.5%) which was known as one of the most common hotspot TP53 mutation. The overall survival of patients with TP53 R175H mutations was significantly worse following chemotherapy (606 vs. 456 days, p < 0.001) or immunotherapy (822 vs. 350 days, p  < 0.001) compared to those with TP53 mutation in other loci. RNA sequencing indicated that the immune response‐related pathways were downregulated in tumors harboring TP53 R175H mutation. Moreover, the expression of CD8(+) T cells PD‐1 were lowered in R175H mutation tumors. In the analysis of TP53 structural domain, compared to those having TP53 mutation in other domain, patients with mutations occurring in the nuclear exporter signal (NES) and E4F1‐binding domains had significantly worse overall survival following chemotherapy (NES: 606 vs. 451 days, p = 0.043; E4F1: 606 vs. 469 days, p = 0.046) and immunotherapy (NES: 822 vs. 403 days, p  < 0.001; E4F1: 822 vs. 413 days, p  < 0.001). In addition, tumors with TP53 mutation and co‐existing copy number amplification of CCND1, FGF4, and FGF19 in chromosome 11 conferred worse prognosis than those with only TP53 mutation (p  < 0.050).

Discussion

Each TP53 mutations indicated differential treatment outcomes following chemotherapy or immunotherapy in patients with metastatic cancer. Functional analysis including RNASeq suggested that TP53 mutation downregulated immune response.

Conclusion

Overall, we found each TP53 mutation to indicate different prognoses in patients with metastatic tumors undergoing chemotherapy and ICI treatment. Further validations, including a prospective cohort study or a functional study, would be particularly valuable in advancing the knowledge on this aspect and developing improved prognostic parameters.
Hypoxic lung adenocarcinoma‐derived exosomal miR‐1290 induces M2 macrophage polarization by targeting SOCS3
Authors: Gu Jiahui , Yang Shengrui , Wang Xueying , Wu Yining , Wei Jia , Xu Jian
Published: April 2023

Background

Exosomes are critical mediators of tumor cell‐microenvironment cross talk. However, the mechanisms by which hypoxic Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD)‐derived exosomes modulate macrophage polarization remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hypoxic LUAD‐derived exosome on macrophage polarization and explore the underlying molecular mechanism.

Materials and methods

LUAD‐derived exosomes were isolated, and then confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and Western blot. Internalization of exosomes in macrophages was detected by confocal microscope. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments, rescue experiments, and xenograft models were performed to uncover the underlying mechanisms of exosomal miR‐1290 induced macrophage polarization in vitro and in vivo.

Results

miR‐1290 was enriched in hypoxic LUAD cancer cell‐derived exosomes and could be transferred to macrophages. Overexpression of miR‐1290 in macrophages‐induced polarization of M2 phenotype. Luciferase assay verified SOCS3 was the target of miR‐1290. Hypoxic LUAD cell‐derived exosomal miR‐1290 activated the STAT3 signaling pathway by targeting SOCS3 to promote M2 macrophage polarization.

Conclusion

Hypoxic LUAD cells generate miR‐1290‐rich exosomes that promote M2 polarization of macrophages. Targeting exosomal miR‐1290 may provide a potential immunotherapeutic strategy for LUAD.
Aminoguanidine Derived N‐Rich Mesoporous Carbon Nitrides with Tunable Nitrogen Contents for Knoevenagel Condensation
Authors: Ruban Sujanya Maria , Singh Gurwinder , Ramadass Kavitha , Joseph Stalin , Ismaili Arsh , Huang Chien‐Yu , Guan Xinwei , Kumar Prashant , Sugi Yoshihiro , Vinu Ajayan
Published: April 2023

Nitrogen‐rich carbon nitrides are desired materials for base‐catalysed transformations; however, their synthesis is challenging due to the volatile nature of N at high temperatures. Herein, we report on the temperature‐controlled synthesis of ordered N‐rich mesoporous carbon nitrides (MCNs) via pyrolysis of aminoguanidine by using SBA‐15 as a hard template. The properties and the nitrogen content of the materials were tuned by varying the carbonization temperature in the range of 350–500 °C. At 350 and 400 °C, higher amounts of N could be retained in the MCN framework with the predominant formation of C3N6 having a six‐membered aromatic ring with diamino‐s‐tetrazine moiety, whereas C3N5 with 1‐amino/imino‐1,2,4‐triazole moieties was produced at 450 and 500 °C. The base catalytic activity of MCNs in Knoevenagel condensation of benzaldehyde with malononitrile revealed that the MCN‐400 exhibited the highest catalytic performance by displaying a 96.4 % product yield with toluene as a solvent. The superior catalytic activity of MCN‐400 is attributed to high N content (62.6 wt%), high surface area (235 m2 g−1), and large pore volume (0.74 cm3 g−1). The optimum temperature for obtaining the highest yield of the products is 80 °C, and the catalyst showed good cycling stability for 5 consecutive cycles.
Synthesis of Polysubstituted Enamides by Hydrogen Atom Transfer Alkene Isomerization Using Dual Cobalt/Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Seino Yusuke , Yamaguchi Yuto , Suzuki Akihiko , Yamashita Masaaki , Kamei Yuji , Kamiyama Futa , Yoshino Tatsuhiko , Kojima Masahiro , Matsunaga Shigeki
Published: April 2023

M‐HAT isomerization is a highly reliable method to access thermodynamically stable alkenes with high functional group tolerance. However, synthesis of heteroatom‐substituted alkenes by M‐HAT isomerization reaction is still underdeveloped. Herein, we report an enamide synthesis using M‐HAT via a combination of cobalt and photoredox catalysis. This method tolerates a variety of functional groups including haloarenes, heteroarenes, free hydroxy groups, non‐protected indoles, and drug derivatives. Furthermore, this method can isomerize styrene derivatives in good yield andE/Zselectivity.
Bromobenzene Transforms Lanthanoid Pseudo‐Grignard Chemistry
Authors: Halim Md Abdul , Guo Zhifang , Deacon Glen B. , Junk Peter C.
Published: April 2023

Divalent lanthanoid pseudo‐Grignard reagents PhLnBr (Ln=Sm, Eu and Yb) can be easily prepared by the oxidative addition of bromobenzene (PhBr) to lanthanoid metals in tetrahydrofuran (THF). PhLnBr reacts with bulky N,N′‐bis(2,6‐di‐isopropylphenyl)formamidine (DippFormH) to generate LnII complexes, namely [Ln(DippForm)Br(thf)3]2⋅6thf (1; Sm, 2; Eu), and [Yb(DippForm)Br(thf)2]2⋅2thf (3; Yb). Samarium and europium (in 1 and 2) are seven coordinate, whereas ytterbium (in 3) is six coordinate, and all are bromine‐bridged dimers. When PhLnBr reacts with 3,5‐diphenylpyrazole (Ph2pzH), both divalent (5; [Eu(Ph2pz)2(thf)4]) and trivalent (4 a; [Sm(Ph2pz)3(thf)3]⋅3thf, 4 b; [Sm(Ph2pz)3(dme)2]⋅dme) complexes are obtained. In the monomeric compounds 4(a,b), samarium is nine coordinate but europium is eight coordinate in 5. The use of PhLnBr in this work transforms the outcomes from earlier reactions of PhLnI.
Oncofertility‐related psycho‐educational therapy for young adult patients with breast cancer and their partners: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Koizumi Tomoe , Sugishita Yodo , Suzuki‐Takahashi Yuki , Nara Kazuko , Miyagawa Tomoko , Nakajima Misako , Sugimoto Kouhei , Futamura Manabu , Furui Tatsuro , Takai Yasushi , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Yamauchi Hideko , Ohno Shinji , Kataoka Akemi , Kawai Kiyotaka , Fukuma Eisuke , Nogi Hiroko , Tsugawa Koichiro , Suzuki Nao
Published: April 2023

Background

A couples' psycho‐educational program called Oncofertility! Psycho‐Education and Couple Enrichment (O!PEACE) therapy was created and its effect when provided before cancer treatment was examined.

Methods

This multicenter randomized controlled trial with nonmasking, parallel two‐group comparison enrolled women aged 20 to 39 years with early‐stage breast cancer and their partners. They were randomly assigned to receive O!PEACE (37 couples) or usual care (37 couples). Primary end points were cancer‐related posttraumatic stress symptoms, symptoms of depression, and anxiety. Secondary end points were stress‐coping strategies, resilience, and marital relationship.

Results

Women receiving psycho‐educational therapy had significantly reduced Impact of Event Scale‐revised version for Japanese scores (p = .011, ηp2 =  = .089). For patients with Impact of Event Scale‐revised version for Japanese scores at baseline ≥18.27, O!PEACE therapy improved these scores when compared with usual care (U = 172.80, p = .027, r = 0.258). A >5‐point reduction was present in 59.3% and 30% of women in the O!PEACE therapy and usual‐care groups, respectively. For partners, O!PEACE therapy significantly improved stress‐coping strategies (95% CI, −0.60 to –0.05; p = .018, ηp2 =  = .074) and escape‐avoidance marital communication (95% CI, –0.33 to –0.08; p = .001, ηp2 = .136). O!PEACE therapy significantly improved the partners' support (95% CI, 0.10–0.50; p = .001, ηp2 = .127), the rate of receiving fertility preservation consultations, and knowledge levels.

Conclusions

O!PEACE therapy before cancer treatment can improve posttraumatic stress symptoms, stress‐coping behavior, and marital relationships. Larger sample sizes and longer term follow‐up are required.

Plain Language Summary

A psycho‐educational program, the Oncofertility! Psycho‐Education and Couple Enrichment (O!PEACE) therapy program was developed and evaluated for women diagnosed with breast cancer and their partners.

A multicenter randomized controlled trial showed that the O!PEACE psycho‐educational therapy, with only two precancer treatment sessions, can reduce cancer‐related posttraumatic stress symptoms and improve oncofertility knowledge and marital relationships in young adult patients with breast cancer.

The therapy could also improve stress‐coping strategies in marital communications with their partners. Couples may use O!PEACE psycho‐educational therapy to consider fertility preservation and improve their psychosocial aspects.
Intersectional disparities in climate vulnerability and cancer risk
Authors: Ashad‐Bishop Kilan C. , Cruz Mayra , Bailey Zinzi D. , Kobetz Erin K.
Published: April 2023

Despite significant progress in the early detection, treatment, and survivorship of cancer in recent decades, cancer disparities continue to plague segments of the US population. Many of these cancer disparities, especially those among historically marginalized racial and ethnic groups and those with lower socioeconomic resources, are caused and perpetuated by social and structural barriers to health. These social and structural barriers, which operate beyond the framework of cancer control, also systematically increase vulnerability to and decrease adaptive capacity for the deleterious effects of anthropogenic climate change. The established and emerging overlap between climate vulnerability and cancer risk presents complex challenges to cancer control, specifically among populations who suffer compounding hazards and intersectional vulnerabilities. By embracing these intersections, we may be able to conceptualize promising new research frameworks and programmatic opportunities that decrease vulnerability to a wide range of climate and health threats to advance health equity.