bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic Degradation of Polyethylene Microplastics and Disinfection of E. coli in Water over Fe- and Ag-Modified TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Yuwendi Yuwendi , Ibadurrohman Muhammad , Setiadi Setiadi , Slamet Slamet
Published: March 2022

In this study, Fe- and Ag-modified TiO2 nanotubes were synthesized via an anodization method as photocatalysts for degradation of polyethylene microplastics and disinfection of Escherichia coli (E. coli). The anodization voltage, as well as the Fe3+ or Ag+ concentrations on TiO2 nanotubes were evaluated and correlated to their corresponding photocatalytic properties. TiO2 nanotubes were firstly synthesized by anodization of Ti plates in a glycerol-based electrolyte, followed by incorporation of either Fe or Ag via a Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction (SILAR) method with Fe(NO3)3 and AgNO3 as Fe and Ag precursors, respectively. UV-Vis DRS shows that the addition of Fe or Ag on TiO2 nanotubes causes a redshift in the absorption spectra. The X-ray diffractograms indicate that, in the case of Fe-modified samples, Fe3+ was successfully incorporated into TiO2 lattice, while Ag scatters around the surface of the tubes as Ag and Ag2O nanoparticles. A microplastic degradation test was carried out for 90 mins inside a photoreactor with UVC illumination. TiO2 nanotubes that are anodized with a voltage of 30 V exhibit the best degradation results with 17.33% microplastic weight loss in 90 mins. Among the modified TiO2 nanotubes, 0.03 M Ag-TiO2 was the only one that surpassed the unmodified TiO2 in terms of microplastic degradation in the water, offering up to 18% microplastic weight loss in 90 min. In terms of E. coli disinfection, 0.03M Ag-TiO2 exhibit better performance than its unmodified counterpart, revealing 99.999% bactericidal activities in 10 mins. Copyright © 2022 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).
Effects of time since invasion and control actions on a coastal ecosystem invaded by non‐native pine trees
Authors: Mesacasa Letícia , Macagnan Leonardo Bruno , Fiaschi Pedro , Dechoum Michele de Sá
Published: March 2022

Invasive non‐native trees cause structural and functional changes in plant communities, which tend to increase over time since invasion. Native vegetation responses after control operations provide important information for restoration.

We evaluated the effects of time since invasion and of pine control on plant community structure and on functional traits in a coastal open ecosystem in southern Brazil. We compared richness, diversity, abundance and cover of woody and non‐woody native plant species, as well as species composition and community‐weighted means (CWM) based on functional traits (dispersal syndrome, fruit type, maximum height and shade tolerance) of plant communities, in four conditions: a non‐invaded area, an area where pines were controlled (managed area), an area of recent invasion and an area invaded longer ago.

Woody species abundance, richness and diversity declined over time since invasion. However, while abundance recovered to the point of not differing from the non‐invaded condition in areas where pines were controlled, species diversity and richness were lower in the managed area than in the area that was never invaded. The effects of pine invasion on richness and diversity of non‐woody plants did not increase over time, but plant cover progressively diminished.

Woody and non‐woody species composition varied between the four conditions. Species composition similarity was lower between conditions for non‐woody than for woody species. CWM differed between the older invasion and the other conditions, determined especially by native plant height and shade tolerance. Taller plants and more shade tolerant native species were exclusively sampled in the older invasion.

Synthesis and application: Pine invasion reduced species abundance, plant cover, richness and diversity, altering the composition of plant community. The escalation of negative temporal effects of pine invasion was observed on the composition of woody and non‐woody species and on functional traits. Although pine control favoured the natural regeneration of non‐woody species, diversity of woody species in the area submitted to pine control was lower than in the non‐invaded condition. Restoration activities are therefore required to increase woody species diversity. These results provide relevant guidance for the restoration of coastal ecosystems following invasive pine control.
Why students do (or do not) choose retrieval practice: Their perceptions of mental effort during task performance matter
Authors: Hui Luotong , de Bruin Anique B. H. , Donkers Jeroen , van Merriënboer Jeroen J. G.
Published: March 2022

Although retrieval practice is a more effective learning strategy than restudy, students oftentimes prefer the latter. Previous studies have investigated this suboptimal decision at strategy level. The present study, however, focused on the learning task level: How perceived mental effort and perceived learning during task performance influence learning strategy decisions. Participants rated their mental effort and learning when memorizing anatomical image‐name tasks, choosing either retrieval practice or restudy for each task. Moreover, the actual learning after each strategy was measured and presented as feedback. The results suggested that higher task‐based perceived mental effort was directly related to reduced retrieval practice choice. Task‐based perceived learning partially mediated the effect of task‐based perceived mental effort on retrieval practice choice after feedback. Students chose retrieval practice more often after feedback. These findings underscore the importance of task‐based perceived mental effort to learning strategy decisions and the potential of feedback to optimize these decisions.
Reactive Glycolysis Metabolite‐Activatable Nanotheranostics for NIR‐II Fluorescence Imaging‐Guided Phototherapy of Cancer
Authors: Lai Yi , Dang Yijing , Li Fenglin , Ding Chunyong , Yu Haijun , Zhang Wen , Xu Zhiai
Published: March 2022

Second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) fluorescence imaging with deep tissue‐penetration ability holds remarkable potential for cancer diagnosis. However, clinical translation of NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐based cancer treatment is severely restricted by the low signal‐to‐background ratio due to insufficient tumor specificity of fluorophores. In this study, it is hypothesized that methylglyoxal (MGO), an intermediate metabolite of tumor glycolysis could be used as a potent biomarker for triggering NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided cancer theranostic. For proof‐of‐concept, first a MGO‐activatable NIR‐II fluorescence probe is developed, and then MGO‐responsive “dual lock‐and‐key” nanotheranostics by integrating the NIR‐II fluorophore and a photodynamic prodrug (i.e., hexyl 5‐aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride (HAL)) into one nanoparticle is engineered. The nanotheranostic can be specifically activated with tumorous MGO for NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided combinatory cancer therapy. Upon 808 nm laser irradiation, the activated NIR‐II fluorophore can generate tunable photothermal effect to trigger HAL release. Subsequently, HAL is converted to protoporphyrin IX inside the tumor cells for 655 nm laser irradiation‐induced photodynamic therapy. It is demonstrated that the NIR‐II fluorescence nanotheranostics is highly specifically activated in the tumor and efficiently suppressed 4T1 breast tumor growth in mouse model. The NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐based nanotheranostic might imply novel insight into reactive metabolite‐activatable precise therapy of tumor.
An Injectable Hydrogel Reshaping Adenosinergic Axis for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhao Zhipeng , Li Qian , Qin Xiaohan , Zhang Mengzhu , Du Qian , Luan Yuxia
Published: March 2022

Adenosinergic axis, an innate negative feedback mechanism known as converting adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine by ectonucleotidases CD39 and CD73, reverses the ATP‐mobilized immunogenic tumor microenvironment (TME) to an immunosuppressive TME caused by adenosine, incapacitating various immune cells (especially effector T cells) in tumor elimination. Herein, for the first time, an injectable hydrogel strategy to reshape the adenosinergic axis by metabolizing adenosine into the immunopotentiator compound inosine is reported for realizing a potent cancer therapy. The solution of adenosine deaminase (ADA), doxorubicin (DOX), benzene‐1,2,3‐tricarboxylic acid (BTC), and sodium alginate gelatinizes in situ in TME, results in an immunogenic niche reshaping the adenosinergic axis. The synergistic cooperation of DOX and BTC boosts ATP induction accompanied by a tumoricidal effect. Simultaneously, ADA catalyzed adenosine into inosine, not only regulating the accumulation of adenosine but also changing it into an immunopotentiator. This strategy possesses the advantage of narrowing the adenosine pool, enriching the ATP reservoir, and transforming the adenosinergic‐axis‐induced immunosuppressor adenosine into immunopotentiator inosine. Different from the A2A adenosine receptor blockade, this strategy achieves a cascade amplification of ATP‐based anti‐tumor immune response, enabling strong immunogenicity along with reversing the negative feedback of adenosinergic axis for powerfully suppressing tumor progression.
High‐Performance and Low‐Power Polycrystalline MoTe2 Thin Film Transistors with Solution‐Processed Ternary Oxide High‐k Dielectric
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wen Xiaokun , Lei Wenyu , Yang Li , Zhang Pengzhen , Zhang Yuhui , Chang Haixin , Zhang Wenfeng
Published: March 2022

Besides the widely investigated potential as alternative to silicon in microelectronics, semiconducting 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) also show appealing prospects in thin film transistors (TFTs)‐based applications, while still suffer from insufficient demonstration. Herein, the authors systematically report high‐performance and low‐power chemical vapor deposition‐grown polycrystalline molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) TFTs with solution‐processed ternary Hf0.5Zr0.5O2/HfAlO2 high‐k dielectric. Benefitting from the optimized high quality HfAlO2 film synthesis and proper postannealing treatment, the constructed MoTe2 TFTs exhibit a high mobility ≈27.24 cm2 V−1 S−1, a current on/off ratio ≈6.43 × 105, threshold voltage ≈−3.27 V, and subthreshold swing (SS) value ≈152.4 mV dec−1, respectively. Moreover, by supplementing another solution‐processed layer of ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 to form double layer of HfAlO2/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 dielectric, the device performance can be further improved with an ignorable hysteresis, increased mobility of ≈55.53 cm2 V−1 S−1, and significantly reduced SS value of ≈110.16 mV dec−1, respectively. The current investigation offers a feasible strategy to fabricate high‐performance and low‐power MoTe2 TFTs for potential TMDs‐based TFTs applications.
Laser‐Fabricated 2D Molybdenum Disulfide Electronic Sensor Arrays for Rapid, Low‐Cost, Ultrasensitive Detection of Influenza A and SARS‐Cov‐2
Authors: Muratore Christopher , Muratore Melani K. , Austin Drake R. , Miesle Paige , Benton Anna K. , Beagle Lucas K. , Motala Michael J. , Moore David C. , Slocik Joseph M. , Brothers Michael C. , Kim Steve S. , Krupa Kristen , Back Tyson A. , Grant John T. , Glavin Nicholas R.
Published: March 2022

Multiplex electronic antigen sensors for detection of SARS‐Cov‐2 spike glycoproteins and hemagglutinin from influenza A are fabricated using scalable processes for straightforward transition to economical mass‐production. The sensors utilize the sensitivity and surface chemistry of a 2D MoS2 transducer for attachment of antibody fragments in a conformation favorable for antigen binding with no need for additional linker molecules. To make the devices, ultra‐thin layers (3 nm) of amorphous MoS2 are sputtered over pre‐patterned metal electrical contacts on a glass chip at room temperature. The amorphous MoS2 is then laser annealed to create an array of semiconducting 2H‐MoS2 transducer regions between metal contacts. The semiconducting crystalline MoS2 region is functionalized with monoclonal antibody fragments complementary to either SARS‐CoV‐2 S1 spike protein or influenza A hemagglutinin. Quartz crystal microbalance experiments indicate strong binding and maintenance of antigen avidity for antibody fragments bound to MoS2. Electrical resistance measurements of sensors exposed to antigen concentrations ranging from 2–20 000 pg mL−1 reveal selective responses. Sensor architecture is adjusted to produce an array of sensors on a single chip suited for detection of analyte concentrations spanning six orders of magnitude from pg mL−1 to µg mL−1.
Accelerated Osteogenesis of Heterogeneous Electric Potential Gradient on CFO/P(VDF‐TrFE) Membranes
Authors: Zhang Jiamin , He Xuzhao , Lin Suya , Chen Xiaoyi , Dong Lingqing , Lin Jun , Wang Huiming , Weng Wenjian , Cheng Kui
Published: March 2022

Piezoelectric biomaterials are considered to be able to mimic the electrophysiological microenvironment of natural bone tissue, thus enhancing the bone regeneration. However, the effects of heterogeneous electric potential gradient of piezoelectric biomaterials on their osteogenic performance still remain elusive, largely because of the challenge of harassing the distribution of electric potential gradient on the surface of piezoelectric biomaterials. This study controls the heterogeneous electric potential gradient on the CoFe2O4/poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene (CFO/P(VDF‐TrFE)) membrane by using an alternatively positive–negative polarization processing on microscaled straight‐stripe patterned indium tin oxide coated glass (ITO) electrodes. The potential gradient (Δζ) on membranes can be controlled by the stripe width and polarization parameters. Interestingly, Δζshows a significant influence on the cellular osteogenic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and the bone regeneration performance in vivo. The Δζof 0.672 pm/(V*µm) shows the optimal osteogenic performance both in vitro and in vivo, which can be attributed to the boost of integrins α5β1expression as well as the orientated arrangement and contractility of the cytoskeletons via mechanotransduction signaling cascades. This work therefore shows the importance of heterogeneous electric potential and provides a novel strategy to accelerate the osteogenic performances of piezoelectric biomaterials.
Huygens’ Metasurface Based on Induced Magnetism: Enhance the Microwave Absorption Performance of Magnetic Coating
Authors: Zhang Tuo , Duan Yuping , Huang Lingxi , Pang Huifang , Liu Jiangyong , Ma Xinran , Shi Yupeng , Lei Hao
Published: March 2022

Despite great efforts in material design and modification, there are still obstacles to improve the effective microwave absorption, which hinders the development of stealth materials. By introducing a magnetically induced Huygens’ metasurface with Fibonacci spiral meta‐atom, a hierarchical absorber with carbonyl iron particle coating is designed and prepared, of which the total effective absorption bandwidth (EAB, reflection loss≤−10 dB) amazingly reaches 9.41 GHz, exceeding 199% of the original coatings', and the absorption peak value declines from−15.91 to−32.12 dB. The overall thickness of the absorber is 7 mm, only 0.17 over the minimum thickness dictated by the causality limit. A conceptual basis for the proposed design is provided, that is, the balance of effective surface current and magnetic current induced simultaneously will enhance the electromagnetic (EM) wave transmission, which contributes to broadening the absorption bandwidth with promising impedance matching. The system is validated numerically and experimentally, suggesting a novel route to obtain high‐performance microwave absorption materials for the EM stealth technology.
Functionalized 12 µm Polyethylene Separator to Realize Dendrite‐Free Lithium Deposition toward Highly Stable Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhao Qiannan , Wang Ronghua , Hu Xiaolin , Wang Yumei , Lu Guanjie , Yang Zuguang , Liu Qiwen , Yang Xiukang , Pan Fusheng , Xu Chaohe
Published: March 2022

Direct application of metallic lithium (Li) as the anode in rechargeable lithium metal batteries (LMBs) is still hindered by some annoying issues such as lithium dendrites formation, low Coulombic efficiency, and safety concerns arising therefrom. Herein, an advanced composite separator is prepared by facilely blade coating lightweight and thin functional layers on commercial 12 µm polyethylene separator to stabilize the Li anode. The composite separator simultaneously improves the Li ion transport and lithium deposition behaviors with uniform lithium ion distribution properties, enabling the dendrite‐free Li deposition. As a result, the lithium anode can stably cycle up to 3000 cycles with the high capacity of 3.5 mAh cm−2. Moreover, the composite separator exhibits wide compatibility in LMBs (Li–S and Li‐ion battery) and delivers stable cycling performance and high Coulombic efficiency both in coin and lab‐level soft‐pack cells. Thus, this cost‐effective modification strategy exhibits great application potential in high‐energy LMBs.
Using Feature‐Assisted Machine Learning Algorithms to Boost Polarity in Lead‐Free Multicomponent Niobate Alloys for High‐Performance Ferroelectrics
Authors: Oh Seung‐Hyun Victor , Hwang Woohyun , Kim Kwangrae , Lee Ji‐Hwan , Soon Aloysius
Published: March 2022

To expand the unchartered materials space of lead‐free ferroelectrics for smart digital technologies, tuning their compositional complexity via multicomponent alloying allows access to enhanced polar properties. The role of isovalent A‐site in binary potassium niobate alloys, (K,A)NbO3 using first‐principles calculations is investigated. Specifically, various alloy compositions of (K,A)NbO3 are considered and their mixing thermodynamics and associated polar properties are examined. To establish structure‐property design rules for high‐performance ferroelectrics, the sure independence screening sparsifying operator (SISSO) method is employed to extract key features to explain the A‐site driven polarization in (K,A)NbO3. Using a new metric of agreement via feature‐assisted regression and classification, the SISSO model is further extended to predict A‐site driven polarization in multicomponent systems as a function of alloy composition, reducing the prediction errors to less than 1%. With the machine learning model outlined in this work, a polarity‐composition map is established to aid the development of new multicomponent lead‐free polar oxides which can offer up to 25% boosting in A‐site driven polarization and achieving more than 150% of the total polarization in pristine KNbO3. This study offers a design‐based rational route to develop lead‐free multicomponent ferroelectric oxides for niche information technologies.
Reducing Photovoltaic Property Loss of Organic Solar Cells in Blade‐Coating by Optimizing Micro‐Nanomorphology via Nonhalogenated Solvent
Authors: Zhang Jiayou , Zhang Lifu , Wang Xinkang , Xie Zijun , Hu Lei , Mao Houdong , Xu Guodong , Tan Licheng , Chen Yiwang
Published: March 2022

Blade‐coating which is compatible with roll‐to‐roll (R2R) fabrication has been considered a promising technology for the large‐scale production of organic solar cells (OSCs). Despite the rapid increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the devices, most processing solvents are still halogenated, which is a key issue that needs to be addressed urgently in commercialized manufacturing. In this work, targeted strategies are explored for the preparation of efficient OSCs via combining the nonhalogenated solvent toluene (TL) with blade‐coating. Based on the in situ UV–vis absorption, grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, and device performance measurements, the subtle relationship between processing solvents, film morphology, and properties is successfully established. The PM6:BTP‐eC9 blend film prepared by this strategy demonstrates higher crystallinity and smaller phase separation morphology, resulting in an outstanding PCE of 16.58% with low energy loss and high fill factor, which is higher than the CF‐based device (15.08%). Finally, the 1.00 cm2 device exhibits a high PCE of 14.82%, which is one of the highest values for OSCs prepared by blade‐coating based on TL solvent. This specific strategy combines blade‐coating with nonhalogenated solvent processing shows outstanding synergy in optimization of morphology, demonstrating excellent potential for the preparation of highly efficient large area OSCs.
Protecting farm privacy while researching large‐scale unmanned aircraft systems platforms for agricultural applications
Authors: Bergstrom Aaron , Nowatzki John , Witt Trevor , Barnhart Isaac , Krueger Jordan , Askelson Mark , Barnhart Kurt , Desell Travis
Published: March 2022

The objective of this paper is to explore data privacy and sharing challenges associated with conducting regional data collection using large‐scale unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) technologies. During the 2016 growing season, the North Dakota State University Extension Service and Elbit Systems of America conducted a proof‐of‐concept UAS Research and Development (R&D) project to use large‐scale UAS platforms to address some of the issues limiting UAS technology adoption. While the researchers initially thought that the high‐resolution spatial and temporal field imagery collected would be well received by area farmers, the team learned that some had concerns over farm operations privacy and about who would have access to the data. The team conducted multiple stakeholder meetings to address the issues raised. While the flights were successfully executed, problems related to farmer interest in the data collected and how to get that data to farmers were identified. Though the project demonstrated how third party operation of large‐scale UAS can remove the operational burden from farmers, the project introduced additional privacy concerns and highlighted the need for better rural broadband to make grower access to data in the cloud practical.
Programmable Light‐Driven Liquid Crystal Elastomer Kirigami with Controlled Molecular Orientations
Authors: Chen Juan , Johnson Andrew Scott , Weber Jada , Akomolafe Oluwafemi Isaac , Jiang Jinghua , Peng Chenhui
Published: March 2022

Programmable soft materials have shown applications in artificial muscles, soft robotics, flexible electronics, and biomedicines due to their adaptive structural transformations. As an ordered soft material, directional shape changes of liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) can be easily achieved via external stimuli thanks to its anisotropic elasticity. However, harnessing the interplay between molecular ordering, geometry, and shape morphing in this anisotropic material to create programmable and complex shape changes remains a challenge. Here, by integrating the concepts of kirigami or Chinese paper cutting “JianZhi” in the light‐actuated LCE encoded with controlled molecular orientations, various complex 3D shape morphing behaviors are demonstrated. Versatile combinations of fundamental shape changes such as bending, folding, twisting, and rolling are enabled by fine‐tuning the molecular orientations and geometries in the monolithic LCE kirigami. Furthermore, various functions such as fluttering of the Chinese crane bird “QianZhiHe,” arbitrary directional locomotion in the annulus and linear locomotion in the complex Chinese character are also realized. These complex, fast‐response, untethered, remote, reversible, and programmable shape morphologies actuated in a monolith of LCE kirigami will open opportunities in soft robotics and smart materials.
Magnetic Mobile Microrobots for Upstream and Downstream Navigation in Biofluids with Variable Flow Rate
Authors: Wu Zehao , Zhang Yuting , Ai Nana , Chen Haoran , Ge Wei , Xu Qingsong
Published: March 2022

Magnetic mobile microrobots navigating biofluids with both upstream and downstream locomotion provide a promising solution to targeted drug delivery for precision medicine. However, the biofluid environment in blood vessels is complicated due to variations in flow rate and direction. It is still unknown how to make magnetic microrobots resist the variable flow rate in biofluids with both upstream and downstream locomotion. Herein, magnetic microrobots with various shapes and sizes have been controlled to navigate diverse biofluids under different flow rates and directions. Simulation and experimental studies have been conducted to analyze the influences of microrobot size and shape on translational velocity in confined microchannels filled with biofluids. A strategy is proposed to choose the optimized parameters of rotating magnetic field actuation for precise delivery of microrobots in a microfluidic chip, which contains a complex biofluid environment with variable flow rate and direction. The results are validated using various microrobots navigating the microfluidic chip and the yolks of zebrafish larvae in vivo. This work provides a guideline for selecting desirable microrobot dimensions and magnetic field actuation parameters for controllable navigation of magnetic mobile microrobots in complex biofluid flows.
Genetic care in geographically isolated small island communities: 8 years of experience in the Dutch Caribbean
Authors: Verberne Eline A. , Westermann Jonne M. , de Vries Tamar I. , Ecury‐Goossen Ginette M. , Lo‐A‐Njoe Shirley M. , Manshande Meindert E. , Faries Sonja , Veenhuis Hans D. , Philippi Patricia , Falix Farah A. , Rosina‐Angelista Irsa , Ponson‐Wever Maria , Rafael‐Croes Louise , Thorsen Patricia , Arends Eric , de Vroomen Maartje , Nagelkerke Sietse Q. , Tilanus Martijn , van der Veken Lars T. , Huijsdens‐van Amsterdam Karin , van der Kevie‐Kersemaekers Anne‐Marie , Alders Mariëlle , Mannens Marcel M. A. M. , van Haelst Mieke M.
Published: March 2022

Worldwide, there are large inequalities in genetic service delivery. In 2011, we established a bi‐annual joint pediatric‐genetics clinic with a visiting clinical geneticist in the Dutch Caribbean. This retrospective study evaluates the yield of diagnostic testing and the clinical utility of a diagnosis for patients with rare diseases on these relatively isolated, resource‐limited islands. A total of 331 patients that were referred to the clinical geneticist between November 2011 and November 2019 and had genetic testing were included in this study. A total of 508 genetic tests were performed on these patients. Microarray, next‐generation sequencing gene panels, and single‐gene analyses were the most frequently performed genetic tests. A molecularly confirmed diagnosis was established in 33% of patients (n = 108). Most diagnosed patients had single nucleotide variants or small insertions and/or deletions (48%) or copy number variants (34%). Molecular diagnostic yield was highest in patients referred for seizures and developmental delay/intellectual disability. The genetic diagnosis had an impact on clinical management in 52% of patients. Referrals to other health professionals and changes in therapy were the most frequently reported clinical consequences. In conclusion, despite limited financial resources, our genetics service resulted in a reasonably high molecular diagnostic yield. Even in this resource‐limited setting, a genetic diagnosis had an impact on clinical management for the majority of patients. Our approach with a visiting clinical geneticist may be an example for others who are developing genetic services in similar settings.
Anthropogenic effects on body size and growth in lab‐reared and free‐ranging Macaca mulatta
Authors: Francis George , Eller Andrea R.
Published: March 2022

The impact of anthropogenic pressures upon primates is increasingly prevalent, and yet the phenotypic aspects of these impacts remain understudied. Captive environments can pose unique pressures based on factors like physical activity levels and caloric availability; thus, maturation patterns should vary under differing captive conditions. Here, we evaluate the development and growth of two Macaca mulatta populations (N = 510) with known chronological ages between 9 months and 16 years, under different levels of captive management, to assess the impact of varying anthropogenic environments on primates. To track growth, we scored 13 epiphyseal fusion locales across long bones in a skeletal sample of lab‐reared M. mulatta (n = 111), including the right tibia, femur, humerus, ulna, and radius. We employed a three‐tier scoring system, consisting of “0” (unfused to diaphysis), “1” (fusing), and “2” (fused). To record body size, we collected five linear measures of these long bones, from the proximal and distal ends, and total lengths. Means and standard deviations were generated to compare samples; t‐tests were used to determine significant differences between means. These values were compared to available data on the free‐ranging, provisioned M. mulatta population of Cayo Santiago. The free‐ranging monkeys (n = 274) were found to exhibit larger linear skeletal lengths (p < 0.05) than lab‐reared specimens. Generally, the free‐ranging macaques reached fusion at earlier chronological ages and exhibited an extended duration of the fusing growth stage. These observations may reflect the protein‐rich diet provided to free‐ranging monkeys and conversely, restricted movement and relaxed natural selection experienced by lab‐reared monkeys.
Describing the learning curve of novices for the diagnosis of paediatric distal forearm fractures using point‐of‐care ultrasound
Authors: Snelling Peter J. , Jones Philip , Moore Mark , Gimpel Peta , Rogers Rosemary , Liew Kong , Ware Robert S. , Keijzers Gerben
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The learning curve of nurse practitioners (NPs) to accurately diagnose paediatric distal forearm fractures using point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) was investigated.

Methods

Each NP’s learning curve was calculated as cumulative diagnostic accuracy against a number of scans performed. The curve’s plateau represented the attainment of competency. Secondary outcomes were the comparisons before and after this cut‐off of diagnostic accuracy, classification of diagnostic errors, pain scores, duration and preference.

Results

Five NPs performed 201 POCUS studies with diagnostic accuracy plateauing at 90%, providing a ‘cut‐off’ point at scan 15. Accuracy of POCUS scanning before and after the fifteenth scan was 81% (95% CI 70%–89%) and 90% (95% CI 84%–94%), respectively, demonstrating 9% improvement (P = 0.07). There was a 10% reduction in image interpretation errors. After fifteen scans, POCUS became faster (mean difference (MD) 2.6 min [95% CI 2.0–3.3], P < 0.001), less painful (MD 0.61 points FPSR scale [95% CI 0.04–1.18], P = 0.04) and more preferred by NPs (63% vs 77%, P = 0.03).

Discussion

The learning curve of POCUS‐novice NPs independently scanning paediatric distal forearm injuries plateaued with mean diagnostic accuracy of 90% after 15 scans, suggesting competency was attained at this cut‐off, supported by higher accuracy, being faster, less painful and more preferred by NPs. Future training packages in forearm POCUS should further address image interpretation and provide ongoing expert feedback.

Conclusions

The findings from this study suggest that competency in paediatric distal forearm POCUS can be attained by novices after a short training course and approximately 15 scans.
Toughening of silane modified bis‐phenol‐A epoxides
Authors: Joo Minjung , Miyoshi Toshikazu , Kyu Thein , Soucek Mark D.
Published: March 2022

The fracture toughness of two alkoxysilane modified bis‐phenol‐A (BPA) epoxides were compared at three different temperatures. Organosilanes were utilized to synthesize the modified epoxides; 3‐aminopropyl triethoxysilane reacted with the telechelic oxirane (aminosilane functionalized epoxide, ASE); and 3‐(triethoxysilyl) propyl isocyanate reacted with the secondary hydroxyl group of the repeat unit (isocyanatesilane functionalized epoxide, ISE). Pre‐hydrolyzed and condensed tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS oligomers) and TiO2 were added to modified epoxides along with an amine hardener. The films were evaluated using DSC, TGA, tensile, and fracture toughness. During film formation, there were two competing chemical pathways: one based on in situ inorganic reactions of silanes and silicates, and the other based on organic reaction of amine crosslinker with epoxide groups. The aminosilane modified epoxides (ASE) indicated higher compatibility with TEOS oligomers or TEOS oligomers/TiO2 than the isocyanate‐silane modified epoxides as smaller agglomerates observed with AFM and SEM images. Theses interactions made ASE tougher, as there was an improvement in the fracture toughness, tensile modulus, and impact strength. This study found that the toughness varied at different temperatures (−50, 20, and 60°C).
On gravity wave parameterisation in vicinity of low‐level blocking
Authors: Geldenhuys Markus
Published: March 2022

This note is framed as an open question to the community regarding parameterisation schemes using the blocking layer depth to reduce the orographic gravity wave drag. It is the purpose of this note to argue that the current orographic gravity wave drag parameterisation in the vicinity of blocking is inadequate. Reducing the gravity wave amplitude (and thereby reducing the gravity wave drag) by assuming an effective mountain height dependent on the blocking depth is not realistic. The arguments given here will hopefully spark a debate and new considerations, ultimately leading to improvements in current orographic gravity wave drag parameterisations. This note illustrates that low‐level blocking can induce more gravity waves or gravity waves with a higher momentum flux (compared to the current parameterisation schemes). More realistic parameterisation schemes are likely to improve the models' performance. However, the fact is complex theories are needed to describe gravity wave excitation by orography so that it is difficult to represent gravity wave nature by a ‘too simple’ parameterisation scheme.
The complicated legacy of E. O. Wilson with respect to genetics and human behavior
Authors: Lerdau Manuel
Published: March 2022

Over the arc of his career, E. O. Wilson first embraced, then popularized, and finally rejected an extreme genetical hereditarian view of human nature. The controversy that ensued during the period of popularization (largely in the 1970s and 1980s) obscured the fact that empirical and theoretical research during this time undercut the assumptions necessary for this view. By the end of his career, Wilson accepted the fact that individual/kin selection models were insufficient to explain human behavior and society, and he began conducting research based upon multilevel (group) selection, an idea he had previously scorned.
Total synthesis of 2′,4′,6′‐trimethoxy‐3′,5′‐dimethylchalcone derivatives
Authors: Park Rae Yeon , Lee Hana , Park Kwangyong
Published: March 2022

2′,4′‐Dihydroxy‐6′‐methoxy‐3′,5′‐dimethylchalcone (DMC), which is isolated from plants, has recently attracted much attention due to its beneficial pharmacological effects. The preparation of twelve 2′,4′,6′‐trimethoxy‐3′,5′‐dimethylchalcone (DMDMC) derivatives, which are dimethylated‐derivatives of DMC, is reported herein for the first time. Our synthetic method allowed the efficient construction of the DMDMC derivatives from phloroglucinol in 37.8%–46.5% overall yields. This promising approach would be advantageous for the production of many different DMDMC derivatives in a short period of time.
Does green innovation mediate the relationship between green relational view and competitive advantage?
Authors: Juo Wei‐Jr , Wang Chao‐Hung
Published: March 2022

This study examines how a green relational view sustains competitive advantage via respective green exploratory and exploitative innovation. To clarify the conditions that support green relational view and which type of green innovation is overlooked, we differentiate between two types of green relational view (i.e., green relationship learning [GRL] and green relational capital [GRC]) to analyze how two types of green innovation (i.e., green exploratory innovation and green exploitative innovation) mediate the relationship between green relational view and competitive advantage (CA) in two distinct pathways. To analyze the proposal theoretical model, Taiwanese integrated circuit industry firms were sampled using hierarchical regression methodology. Our results show that both GRL and GRC support CA. Furthermore, the findings indicate that GRL more strongly influences green exploratory innovation, whereas GRC more strongly influences green exploitative innovation. Further analysis finds that green exploratory innovation partially mediates the linkage of GRL‐CA and green exploitative innovation fully mediates the linkage of GRC‐CA. These findings are valuable for both researchers and practitioners. We discuss implications and directions for future research.
Zn(II) 5,5‐Diethylbarbiturate Complex Selectively Induces Apoptosis in Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Stem‐Like Cells
Authors: Alioglu Imren , Tsochantaridis Ilias , Pappa Aglaia , Dere Egemen , Ari Ferda
Published: March 2022

The biological activities of Zn(II) compounds have been extensively studied in recent years. In this study, the growth suppressive effect of Zn(II) 5,5‐diethylbarbiturate complex on MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer cells was determined by SRB and ATP viability assays and apoptosis‐inducing effect by double staining method. Significant increase in cytokeratin 18 level, caspase 3/7 activity and annexin‐V upregulation prove that Zn(II) complex has apoptotic effect in breast cancer cells. Intrinsic apoptosis pathway in MCF‐7 cells and extrinsic apoptosis pathway in MDA‐MB‐231 cells was determined by Western blot (PARP, Cleave PARP, BAX, COX4, RIP, Caspase 8, Split Caspase 8, DR4 and B‐Actin) and RT‐PCR (PARP, Fas, Bcl‐2, TNF10A, P53) analysis. No reduction of viability was found in MCF‐710A healthy breast cells treated with Zn(II) complex. In breast cancer stem‐like cells (MCF‐7s), the Zn(II) complex was found to have a cytotoxic effect and to activate the apoptotic pathway. As a result, it was concluded that Zn(II) complex has anti‐proliferative and apoptotic effects on breast cancer and breast cancer stem‐like cells. Also this complex prevents the metastatic effect of cancer cells and does not effect to healthy cells so this complex has a specific effect on cancer cells. These findings might shed light on the discovery of new chemotherapeutic agents.
Laser vaporization of atherothrombotic burden before drug‐coated balloon application in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction: Two‐year outcomes of the laser‐DCB trial
Authors: Tonomura Daisuke , Shimada Yoshihisa , Yamanaka Yuki , Terashita Kazunori , Suzuki Tatsuya , Nishiura Satoshi , Yoshida Masataka , Tsuchida Takao , Fukumoto Hitoshi
Published: March 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to examine whether the combination of excimer laser coronary atherectomy (ELCA) and drug‐coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty can provide feasible clinical outcome in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with 8‐month and 2‐year scheduled follow‐up angiography.

Background

Intracoronary thrombus elevates the risk of interventional treatment in patients with STEMI and hampers drug absorption into the vasculature released from DCB.

Methods

Sixty‐two patients with STEMI within 24 h after the onset of symptoms were enrolled in this prospective, single‐center, single‐arm study.

Results

The laser catheter was successfully crossed distal to the culprit lesion in all cases. No ELCA‐related adverse events occurred. Bail‐out stenting was required in two patients (3.2%) after adjunctive ballooning; thus, the remaining 60 patients were completed with DCB angioplasty without stenting. Scheduled angiography at 8 months and 2 years was completed in 100% and 85.2%, respectively, and minimal lumen diameters were 3.4 ± 0.5, 3.4 ± 0.6, and 3.4 ± 0.5 mm after the procedure, at 8 months and at 2 years, respectively. Binary restenosis was observed in five patients (8.1%) in whom target lesion revascularization was performed. The duration of dual antiplatelet therapy was 2.3 ± 2.2 months, and neither abrupt vessel closure, reinfarction, cardiac death nor major bleeding was observed.

Conclusion

A combination of DCB angioplasty with ELCA is a feasible therapeutic option for STEMI.
Experiential value and shopping well‐being of aging consumers
Authors: Yu Hong , Rahman Osmud , Marlatt Dana , Robichaud Zachary
Published: March 2022

This study explored aging consumers' multichannel shopping experiences and identified factors that contribute to their satisfaction and shopping well‐being. We conducted 13 one‐on‐one semi‐structured interviews with informants 50 years or older in a metropolitan area in Canada and used a deductive approach to analyze the qualitative data. Aging consumers in this study focused on two‐channel shopping: brick‐and‐mortar and online stores. Participants emphasized the interactive engagement with sales associates, window shopping, and people‐watching as benefits of the brick‐and‐mortar experience, in addition to shopping as a tool for socialization and risk‐avoidance. For online shopping, participants underscored convenience and also concerns about privacy, security, financial risk, and product quality. Results indicate retailers' transparent practices will contribute to older adults' shopping well‐being.
Salivary duct carcinoma: A report of 70 FNA cases and review of the literature
Authors: Wakely Paul E.
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Although usually recognized as malignant, fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) has been confused with other primary salivary gland (SG) neoplasms. This article undertook an analysis of a large collection of SDC FNA cases to assess diagnostic accuracy, specificity, and cytopathology.

METHODS

Cytopathology files were searched for SDC with histopathologic validation. FNA biopsy smears were performed using standard techniques.

RESULTS

Seventy cases from 56 patients (M:F, 1.9:1; age range, 26‐92 years; mean age, 65 years) met inclusion criteria. All had tissue confirmation of SDC. FNA sites included: parotid gland (42, 60% cases), neck (10), submandibular gland (7), pre‐/post‐auricular area (5), face/cheek (3), mediastinal lymph nodes (2), and clavicle (1). Aspirates were from primary (52, 74%), metastatic (12, 17%), and locally recurrent (6, 9%) neoplasms. FNA diagnoses included: SDC (19, 27%), favor/suspicious for SDC (7, 10%), high‐grade carcinoma (11), adenocarcinoma (9), carcinoma (6), malignant (6), SG neoplasm (5), atypia (3), SDC versus another malignancy (2), and pleomorphic adenoma (2). Large polygonal cells in groups and single forms showed cribriforming, variable necrosis, pseudopapillae, and oncocytic change. Androgen receptor staining was positive in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

FNA biopsy is accurate and reliable in classifying SDC as a malignant neoplasm, but much less so for identification as a specific tumor type. Using the Milan system, 86% of aspirates were classified as either malignant or suspicious for malignancy. A recurring pitfall includes sampling error in cases of SDC ex pleomorphic adenoma.;
The Polymorphic Nuclear Factor NFIB Regulates Hepatic CYP2D6 Expression and Influences Risperidone Metabolism in Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Lenk Hasan Çağın , Klöditz Katharina , Johansson Inger , Smith Robert Løvsletten , Jukić Marin M. , Molden Espen , Ingelman‐Sundberg Magnus
Published: March 2022

The genetic background for interindividual variability of the polymorphic CYP2D6 enzyme activity remains incompletely understood and the role of NFIB genetic polymorphism for this variability was evaluated in this translational study. We investigated the effect of NFIB expression in vitro using 3D liver spheroids, Huh7 cells, and the influence of the NFIB polymorphism on metabolism of risperidone in patients in vivo. We found that NFIB regulates several important pharmacogenes, including CYP2D6. NFIB inhibited CYP2D6 gene expression in Huh7 cells and NFIB expression in livers was predominantly nuclear and reduced at the mRNA and protein level in carriers of the NFIB rs28379954 T>C allele. Based on 604 risperidone treated patients genotyped for CYP2D6 and NFIB, we found that the rate of risperidone hydroxylation was elevated in NFIB rs28379954 T>C carriers among CYP2D6 normal metabolizers, resulting in a similar rate of drug metabolism to what is observed in CYP2D6 ultrarapid metabolizers, with no such effect observed in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers lacking functional enzyme. The results indicate that NFIB constitutes a novel nuclear factor in the regulation of cytochrome P450 genes, and that its polymorphism is a predictor for the rate of CYP2D6 dependent drug metabolism in vivo.
In Vivo Modeling of Tumor Heterogeneity for Immuno‐Oncology Studies: Failures, Improvements, and Hopes
Authors: DiMarco Ashley V. , Maddalo Danilo
Published: March 2022

Murine tumor modeling is fundamental for the preclinical development of anti‐cancer therapies. Use of immunocompetent mouse models is becoming increasingly relevant as we gain more knowledge of how cancer cells interact with the immune system in the tumor microenvironment and how we can harness the immune system to fight tumors. However, there are few intrinsically immunogenic preclinical tumor models, and the vast majority either do not respond to therapy or do not faithfully predict the responses of the therapy when applied in the clinic. Here, we discuss the limitations of commonly used murine tumor models in immuno‐oncology and strategies to improve their immunogenicity and mutational burden to more accurately reflect the heterogeneity of patient tumors. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A 60‐GHz low‐noise amplifier with +7.258‐dBm third‐order input intercept point using current reuse feedforward distortion cancellation for 5G emerging communication
Authors: Veerasamy Thenmozhi , Manickam Bhaskar
Published: March 2022

In the ever‐growing 5G technology, the millimetre‐wave (mmWave) frequency spectrum is the inevitable mainstream for high‐speed wireless communication. The wide‐ranging spectrum bandwidth of the mmWave frequency attracts interest in radio frequency (RF) front‐end design which will be very much beneficial for security and cellular‐based applications such as intersatellite communication and automotive vehicle‐to‐vehicle communication. The RF front end requires low‐power and low‐noise receiver architecture for effective satellite communication, and it needs high throughput with maximum data transfer for cellular‐based applications. To address these challenges, this paper presents a novel low‐noise amplifier (LNA) operating from 57.12‐ to 66.25‐GHz frequency. The design is implemented using UMC 65‐nm CMOS process technology, and the post‐layout simulations are carried out using the Cadence Spectre RF tool. At 60 GHz, the LNA exhibits a power gain of 15.46 dB, minimum noise figure (NF) of 1.32 dB while consuming 6.59 mW from a 1.2‐V supply. The LNA employs the current reuse feedforward distortion cancelation technique to improve the third‐order input intercept point (IIP3) to +7.258 dBm. The proposed LNA provides a relatively better figure of merit compared to some of the recently proposed mmWave LNA architectures.