bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Suspended Silicon Single‐Hole Transistor as an Extremely Scaled Gigahertz Nanoelectromechanical Beam Resonator
Authors: Zhang Zhuo‐Zhi , Hu Qitao , Song Xiang‐Xiang , Ying Yue , Li Hai‐Ou , Zhang Zhen , Guo Guo‐Ping
Published: November 2020

Suspended single‐hole transistors (SHTs) can also serve as nanoelectromechanical resonators, providing an ideal platform for investigating interactions between mechanical vibrations and charge carriers. Demonstrating such a device in silicon (Si) is of particular interest, due to the strong piezoresistive effect of Si and potential applications in Si‐based quantum computation. Here, a suspended Si SHT also acting as a nanoelectromechanical beam resonator is demonstrated. The resonant frequency and zero‐point motion of the device are ≈3 GHz and 0.2 pm, respectively, reaching the best level among similar devices demonstrated with Si‐containing materials. The mechanical vibration is transduced to electrical readout by the SHT. The signal transduction mechanism is dominated by the piezoresistive effect. A giant apparent effective piezoresistive gauge factor with strong correlation to single‐hole tunneling is extracted in this device. The results show the great potential of the device in interfacing charge carriers with mechanical vibrations, as well as investigating potential quantum behavior of the vibration phonon mode.
Electrochemical Oxygen Reduction to Hydrogen Peroxide via a Two‐Electron Transfer Pathway on Carbon‐Based Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Sun Kai , Xu Wenwen , Lin Xiao , Tian Shubo , Lin Wen‐Feng , Zhou Daojin , Sun Xiaoming
Published: November 2020

Electrochemical reduction of oxygen is considered as a new strategy to achieve decentralized preparation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in a green manner. As a promising new type of catalytic material, carbon‐based single‐atom catalysts can achieve wide‐range adjustments of the electronic structure of the active metal centers while also maximize the utilization of metal atoms, toward electrochemical production of H2O2 from the selective two‐electron transfer oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, starting from the reviewing of characterizing methods and reaction mechanisms of ORR via two‐electron and four‐electron transfer pathways, the vital role of binding strength between OOH intermediate and active sites in determining the activity and selectivity towards H2O2 production is revealed and illustrated. Currently reported carbon‐based single‐atom catalysts for H2O2 production are systematically summarized and critically reviewed. Moreover, with the underpinning chemistry to improve the overall efficiency, three aspects concerning the central metal atoms, coordinated atoms, and environmental atoms are comprehensively analyzed. Based on the understanding of the most current progresses, some predictions for future H2O2 production via electrochemical routes are offered, which include catalyst designs at atomic levels, new synthesis strategies and characterization techniques, as well as interfacial superwetting interaction engineering at electrode and device levels.
Water‐Based Synthesis of Gold Single Atoms‐Embedded, Metal–Organic Frameworks‐Derived Nanoporous Carbon Nanoparticles with Enhanced Reduction Ability
Authors: Yang Ting‐Hsun , Han Po‐Chun , Wang I‐Ta , Chen Celine H. , Khan M. A. Majeed , Wen Cheng‐Yen , Wu Kevin C.‐W.
Published: November 2020

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged to be a new research frontier in catalysis due to their distinctive physical and chemical properties, including better catalytic performance, stability, and recyclability. However, the widely used organic synthesis methods for SACs limit the ability to uniformly distribute single atoms’ water‐soluble precursors on the support of the catalysts. A water‐based synthesis of single gold (Au) atom catalyst is used in this work. Through this method, water‐soluble Au precursors are successfully turned into Au single atoms embedded in metal–organic framework‐derived nitrogen‐containing nanoporous carbon. The resulting catalyst is applied on the reduction of 4‐nitropenol. The catalytic performance of the reaction reaches 100% conversion in 30 min, while utilizing Au nanoparticles as active sites on the same support can only get 70% conversion under the same reaction conditions.
Compensation of Oxygen Doping in p‐Type Organic Field‐Effect Transistors Utilizing Immobilized n‐Dopants
Authors: Barf Marc‐Michael , Benneckendorf Frank S. , Reiser Patrick , Bäuerle Rainer , Köntges Wolfgang , Müller Lars , Pfannmöller Martin , Beck Sebastian , Mankel Eric , Freudenberg Jan , Jänsch Daniel , Tisserant Jean‐Nicolas , Lovrincic Robert , Schröder Rasmus R. , Bunz Uwe H. F. , Pucci Annemarie , Jaegermann Wolfram , Kowalsky Wolfgang , Müllen Klaus
Published: November 2020

Poly(3‐hexyl‐thiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (P3HT) is one of the most commonly used materials in organic electronics, yet it is considered to be rather unattractive for organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) due to its tendency to oxidize under aerobic conditions. Strong p‐doping of P3HT by oxygen causes high off‐currents in such devices opposing the desired high on/off‐ratios. Herein, a new application‐oriented method involving the recently developed immobilizable organic n‐dopant 2‐(2‐((4‐azidobenzyl)oxy)phenyl)‐1,3‐dimethyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzoimidazol (o‐AzBnO‐DMBI) is presented allowing to process and operate P3HT OFETs in air. The n‐dopants compensate oxygen doping by trapping generated free holes, thereby rediminishing OFET off‐currents by approximately two orders of magnitude. At the same time, field‐effect mobilities remain high in the order of up to 0.19 cm2 V−1 s−1. Due to the covalent attachment of the dopants to the host matrix after photochemical activation, a drift of the otherwise mobile ions within the device is prevented even at high operating voltages and, thus, hysteresis in the corresponding transfer characteristics is kept low. In this manner, the air instability of P3HT OFETs is successfully resolved paving an auspicious way toward OFET mass production. As the immobilization process employed here is nonspecific with respect to the host material, this strategy is transferable to other p‐type semiconductors.
150 nm × 200 nm Cross‐Point Hexagonal Boron Nitride‐Based Memristors
Authors: Yuan Bin , Liang Xianhu , Zhong Liubiao , Shi Yuanyuan , Palumbo Felix , Chen Shaochuan , Hui Fei , Jing Xu , Villena Marco A. , Jiang Lin , Lanza Mario
Published: November 2020

The introduction of 2D materials in the structure of memristors has been shown to provide the devices with enhanced flexibility and transparency. However, their use is still not well justified, as the electrical performance of 2D materials‐based memristors is still behind that of transition metal oxide (TMO)‐based memristors. This work presents the fabrication of metal/h‐BN/metal memristors with ultra‐low power consumption that beat the previous record set by Au/HfOx:Ag/Au memristors. Moreover, all the methods used to synthesize the 2D materials and fabricate the devices are scalable (e.g., chemical vapor deposition synthesis), and the 2D materials‐based memristors fabricated here use a vertical metal/insulator/metal configuration (i.e., low variability and 3D stackable). To the best of current knowledge, the metal/h‐BN/metal memristors here presented are the smallest 2D materials‐based memristors ever reported.
Organic Solar Cells—The Path to Commercial Success
Authors: Riede Moritz , Spoltore Donato , Leo Karl
Published: November 2020

Organic solar cells have the potential to become the cheapest form of electricity, beating even silicon photovoltaics. This article summarizes the state of the art in the field, highlighting research challenges, mainly the need for an efficiency increase as well as an improvement in long‐term stability. It discusses possible current and future applications, such as building integrated photovoltaics or portable electronics. Finally, the environmental footprint of this renewable energy technology is evaluated, highlighting the potential to be the energy generation technology with the lowest carbon footprint of all.
Primary myelofibrosis: 2021 update on diagnosis, risk‐stratification and management
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew
Published: November 2020

Disease Overview

Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by stem cell‐derived clonal myeloproliferation that is often but not always accompanied by JAK2, CALR, or MPL mutations. Additional disease features include bone marrow reticulin/collagen fibrosis, aberrant inflammatory cytokine expression, anemia, hepatosplenomegaly, extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH), constitutional symptoms, cachexia, leukemic progression, and shortened survival.

Diagnosis

Bone marrow morphology is the primary basis for diagnosis. Presence of JAK2, CALR, or MPL mutation, expected in around 90% of the patients, is supportive but not essential for diagnosis; these mutations are also prevalent in the closely related MPNs, namely polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET). The 2016 World Health Organization classification system distinguishes “prefibrotic” from “overtly fibrotic” PMF; the former might mimic ET in its presentation. Furthermore, approximately 15% of patients with ET or PV might progress into a PMF‐like phenotype (post‐ET/PV MF) during their clinical course.

Adverse Mutations

SRSF2, ASXL1, and U2AF1‐Q157 mutations predict inferior survival in PMF, independent of each other and other risk factors. RAS/CBL mutations predicted resistance to ruxolitinib therapy.

Adverse Karyotype

Very high risk abnormalities include −7, inv (3), i(17q), +21, +19, 12p‐, and 11q‐.

Risk Stratification

Two new prognostic systems for PMF have recently been introduced: GIPSS (genetically‐inspired prognostic scoring system) and MIPSS70+ version 2.0 (MIPSSv2; mutation‐ and karyotype‐enhanced international prognostic scoring system). GIPSS is based exclusively on mutations and karyotype. MIPSSv2 includes, in addition, clinical risk factors. GIPSS features four and MIPSSv2 five risk categories.

Risk‐adapted Therapy

Observation alone is advised for MIPSSv2 “low” and “very low” risk disease (estimated 10‐year survival 56%‐92%); allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT) is the preferred treatment for “very high” and “high” risk disease (estimated 10‐year survival 0%‐13%); treatment‐requiring patients with intermediate‐risk disease (estimated 10‐year survival 30%) are best served by participating in clinical trials. In non‐transplant candidates, conventional treatment for anemia includes androgens, prednisone, thalidomide, and danazol; for symptomatic splenomegaly, hydroxyurea and ruxolitinib; and for constitutional symptoms, ruxolitinib. Fedratinib, another JAK2 inhibitor, has now been FDA‐approved for use in ruxolitinib failures. Splenectomy is considered for drug‐refractory splenomegaly and involved field radiotherapy for non‐hepatosplenic EMH and extremity bone pain.

New Directions

A number of new agents, alone or in combination with ruxolitinib, are currently under investigation for MF treatment (ClinicalTrials.gov); preliminary results from some of these clinical trials were presented at the 2020 ASH annual meeting and highlighted in the current document.
The absence of evidence of the effectiveness of Australian gender equity in STEM initiatives
Authors: McKinnon Merryn
Published: November 2020

This paper explores the range of initiatives offered across Australia to support the attraction, retention and progression of girls and women to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) studies and careers. A mapping exercise, conducted by the author as part of the development of the Decadal Plan for Women in STEM for the Australian Academy of Science, provided an overview of 337 programmes and initiatives offered nationally, the majority of which were university scholarships. Academia, industry and government are the main providers of these initiatives, with collaborations common between all the different stakeholder groups identified. Of all the initiatives mapped, only seven had publicly facing evaluation data, of which one went beyond self‐reports of satisfaction and enjoyment. The myriad initiatives show a concerted effort to engage girls and women in STEM, but the absence of any meaningful evidence of impact means we simply do not know whether these initiatives are benefiting girls and women and achieving the desired policy outcomes or not.
Simultaneous Determination of Free Fatty Acids and Esterified Fatty Acids in Rice Oil by Gas Chromatography
Authors: Ichihara Ken'ichi , Kohsaka Chihiro , Yamamoto Yoshihiro , Masumura Takehiro
Published: November 2020

Free fatty acids (FFA) in crude rice oil were selectively and stoichiometrically derivatized to fatty acid N,N‐dimethylamides (FADMA) by catalytic condensation at 45 °C, and then esterified fatty acids (eFA) were directly converted to fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) at 37 °C. The mixture of FADMA and FAME formed in a single test tube was injected into the capillary column of a gas chromatograph (GC). No mutual contamination occurred between FFA and eFA, and reliability of the method was confirmed by comparison between GC data obtained by this method and by a conventional isolation method. The advantages of the present method are that no FFA isolation procedures are required, the reactions proceed under mild temperature conditions, and FFA and eFA can be analyzed simultaneously by GC.
Hydrogen effect on the molecular weight distribution of polymers obtained by polymerization of ethylene and α‐olefins over supported titanium‐magnesium catalysts
Authors: Matsko Mikhail A. , Nikolaeva Marina I. , Zakharov Vladimir A.
Published: November 2020

Comparative data on the molecular weight distribution of polymers obtained by polymerization of ethylene, propylene and 1‐hexene, and copolymerization of ethylene with α‐olefins over the titanium‐magnesium catalysts (TMC) in the absence and presence of hydrogen are presented. In contrast to the ethylene polymerization, in the cases of propylene and 1‐hexene polymerization and copolymerization of ethylene with α‐olefins, the hydrogen addition is characterized by noticeable narrowing of the molecular weight distribution (MWD) due to lower contribution of the MWD component with high molecular weight. This result is an evidence of the increased reactivity of TMC active sites producing high molecular weight poly‐α‐olefins and copolymers of ethylene with α‐olefins in the chain transfer reaction with hydrogen. It is suggested that the increased reactivity of these sites in the transfer reaction with hydrogen appears after the 2,1‐addition of α‐olefin to the growing polymer chain.
Improving the dispersion of MWCNT and MMT in PVDF melts employing controlled extensional flows
Authors: de Goes Marcel Andrey , Woicichowski Luciano Allan , da Rosa Renan Vinicius Viera , Santos João Paulo Ferreira , Carvalho Benjamim de Melo
Published: November 2020

Poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) has been widely explored to produce polymer nanocomposites possessing outstanding combinations of properties. In this work, the impact of extensional melt flows on the dispersion, relaxation and crystallinity of PVDF nanocomposites filled with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and montmorillonites (MMT) was studied. Extrusion was employed to produce nanocomposites containing 3 wt% of fillers, named: (i) PVDF/3 wt% MWCNT, (ii) PVDF/3wt%MMT, and (iii) PVDF/1.5wt%MWCNT/1.5 wt% MMT. The results showed that applying a sequence of extensional flows through the melts improved the dispersion of both fillers in the PVDF matrix. Moreover, extensional flows significantly enhanced the viscosity and relaxation of MWCNT nanocomposite, but had marginal effects on MMT nanocomposite. On the other hand, MMT favored the crystallization of the β piezoelectric phase of PVDF over the α phase and the extensional flow enhanced its crystallinity content. Therefore, these new insights prospect a vast horizon toward the use of extensional flows for tailoring synergic combinations of properties in hybrid PVDF/MWCNT/MMT systems.
Exploiting the dynamics of eye gaze to bias intertemporal choice
Authors: Liu Hong‐Zhi , Lyu Xiao‐Kang , Wei Zi‐Han , Mo Wan‐Li , Luo Jiong‐Rui , Su Xiao‐Yu
Published: November 2020

Intertemporal choices refer to decisions involving tradeoffs between costs and benefits at different times. Two types of models, namely, attribute‐ and alternative‐based models, have been developed to account for the intertemporal choices of individuals. Although behavioral evidence favors attribute‐based models, eye‐tracking data have produced mixed evidence. Examining the causal link between eye gaze and intertemporal choice may help resolve the controversy in these two intertemporal models. This study then performs a gaze‐contingent manipulation to direct the gaze time of the participants while they are choosing between two intertemporal options. The intertemporal choices of these participants were found to be biased toward a randomly determined target when their gazes were directed to the target attribute (Study 1, N = 45), but their choices were not biased when their gazes were directed to the target option (Study 2, N = 45). The gazed longer attribute also mediated the effect of gaze‐contingent manipulation on intertemporal choice. These findings suggest a causal link between intertemporal choices and the gaze‐contingent manipulation of the attribute‐based gaze pattern and contribute to the theoretical understanding of the mechanisms and processes involved in making intertemporal choices.
The circle of Willis revisited: Forebrain dehydration sensing facilitated by the anterior communicating artery
Authors: Fenrich Matija , Habjanovic Karlo , Kajan Josip , Heffer Marija
Published: November 2020

We hypothesize that threat of dehydration provided selection pressure for the evolutionary emergence and persistence of the anterior communicating artery (ACoA – the inter‐arterial connection that completes the Circle of Willis) in early amniotes.

The ACoA is a hemodynamically insignificant artery, but, as we argue in this paper, its privileged position outside the blood‐brain barrier gives it a crucial sensing function for the osmolarity of the blood against the background of the rest of the brain, which efficiently protects itself from dehydration. Till now, the questions of why the ACoA evolved, and what its physiological function is, have remained unsatisfactorily answered. The traditional view—that the ACoA serves as a collateral source of vascularization in case of arterial stenosis—is anthropocentric, and not in accordance with principles of natural selection that apply more generally. Diseases underlying arterial stenosis are associated with aging and the human lifestyle, so this cannot explain why the ACoA formed hundreds of millions of years ago and persisted in amniotes to this day.

The peculiar hemodynamic properties of the ACoA could be selected traits that allowed for more efficient forebrain detection of dehydration and complex behavioral responses to water loss, a major advantage in the survival of early amniotes. This hypothesis also explains insufficient hydration often seen in elderly humans.
The glenoid and humeral head in shoulder osteoarthritis: A comprehensive review
Authors: Alashkham Abduelmenem , Soames Roger
Published: November 2020

The key management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis is shoulder arthroplasty which aims to reduce pain and restore full shoulder function: it has increased in recent years. A detailed understanding of the anatomy of the glenoid and humeral head, as well as morphological changes of the glenoid in osteoarthritis, are important factors to consider when deciding on replacement components. This review begins with a brief introduction of the glenohumeral joint itself, and then considers the detailed anatomy of the glenoid fossa and humeral head, both of which are reported to have variable morphology. Several studies have been undertaken to assess various parameters, especially of the glenoid fossa including its shape, height, width, and articular surface area, version and inclination, in an attempt to define a standard classification that can be applied to surgical intervention. Nevertheless, no definitive consensus concerning the classification of these morphologies has been forthcoming, hence the need for this review. Following a consideration of these morphologies, the current state of knowledge regarding glenoid deformity in osteoarthritis, as well as its surgical management, is considered.
Courses Based on iGEM/BIOMOD Competitions Are the Ideal Format for Research‐Based Learning of Xenobiology
Authors: Schmitt Franz‐Josef , Frielingsdorf Stefan , Friedrich Thomas , Budisa Nediljko
Published: November 2020

Synthetic biology and especially xenobiology, as emerging new fields of science, have reached an intellectual and experimental maturity that makes them suitable for integration into the university curricula of chemical and biological disciplines. Novel scientific fields that include laboratory work are perfect playgrounds for developing highly motivating research‐based teaching modules. We believe that research‐based learning enriched by digital tools is the best approach for teaching new emerging essentials of academic education. This is especially true when the scientific field as such is still not canonized with text books and best‐practice examples. Our experience shows that iGEM/BIOMOD competitions represent an excellent basis for designing research‐based courses in xenobiology. Therefore, we present a report on “iGEM–Synthetic Biology” offered at the Technische Universität Berlin as an example.
How do parole board members in England and Wales construct decisions about whether to release perpetrators of intimate partner violence from prison?
Authors: Dyke Chris , Schucan Bird Karen , Rivas Carol
Published: November 2020

Background

Existing research explores Parole Board decision‐making, but not specifically for perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV), a special case due to the gendered and secretive nature of IPV and the role of control in predicting reoffending.

Aim

To identify associations between case variables in England and Wales Parole Board decisions regarding perpetrators of IPV and explore how these variables help construct the decision.

Methods

Logistic regressions regarding decisions in a sample of all 137 male prisoners who had abused women and applied for release or progression to open conditions in England and Wales from April 2018 to September 2019, developed into latent class analyses.

Thematic analyses of six interviews with Parole Board members about decision‐making in IPV cases.

Results

Release decisions were strongly predicted by the recommendations of offender managers, offender supervisors and psychologists, mediated by the Parole Board's confidence in their ability. Decisions were also significantly associated with custodial behaviour and attendance on courses, mediated by the Board's confidence in the prisoner's insight and honesty. Thematic analysis was both consistent with these findings and provided a context in which the associations could be understood.

Conclusions

The findings have implications for understanding the dynamics between professional decisions and the Parole Board's decision; for the importance of offender managers demonstrating their expertise and ability to manage risk; for Parole Board members' reflection and development; for academic research into IPV; and for those who have experienced IPV and are looking to understand parole decisions about their abuser.
Apical muscular ventricular septal defect closure via hybrid approach using a right ventricular stay suture
Authors: Escobar Antonio J. , Levi Daniel S. , Van Arsdell Glen S. , Perens Gregory S. , Mohan Uthara R.
Published: November 2020

Transcatheter closure of large apical muscular ventricular septal defects (VSDs) can be performed via transfemoral or hybrid approach. A very large apical muscular VSD was closed via a hybrid approach. A strategy for deployment of a right ventricular stay suture was utilized to minimize the risk of device embolization without the use of bypass and without externalization of a portion of the device.
Mixed large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the colon: detailed molecular characterisation of two cases indicates a distinct colorectal cancer entity
Authors: Woischke Christine , Jung Peter , Jung Andreas , Kumbrink Jörg , Eisenlohr Sibylle , Auernhammer Christoph Josef , Vieth Michael , Kirchner Thomas , Neumann Jens
Published: November 2020

We present two rare cases of mixed large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the colon. A literature search revealed only three published cases with similar histology but none of these reports provided profound molecular and mutational analyses. Our two cases exhibited a distinct, colon‐like immunophenotype with strong nuclear CDX2 and β‐catenin expression in more than 90% of the tumour cells of both components. We analysed the two carcinomas regarding microsatellite stability, RAS, BRAF and PD‐L1 status. In addition, next‐generation panel sequencing with Ion AmpliSeq™ Cancer Hotspot Panel v2 was performed. This approach revealed mutations in FBXW7, CTNNB1 and PIK3CA in the first case and FBXW7 and RB1 mutations in the second case. We looked for similar mutational patterns in three publicly available colorectal adenocarcinoma data sets, as well as in collections of colorectal mixed neuroendocrine‐non‐neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) and colorectal neuroendocrine carcinomas. This approach indicated that the FBXW7 point mutation, without being accompanied by classical adenoma–carcinoma sequence mutations, such as APC, KRAS and TP53, likely occurs at a relatively high frequency in mixed neuroendocrine and squamous cell carcinoma and therefore may be characteristic for this rare tumour type. FBXW7 codifies the substrate recognition element of an ubiquitin ligase, and inactivating FBXW7 mutations lead to an exceptional accumulation of its target β‐catenin which results in overactivation of the Wnt‐signalling pathway. In line with previously described hypotheses of de‐differentiation of colon cells by enhanced Wnt‐signalling, our data indicate a crucial role for mutant FBXW7 in the unusual morphological switch that determines these rare neoplasms. Therefore, mixed large cell neuroendocrine and a squamous cell carcinoma can be considered as a distinct carcinoma entity in the colon, defined by morphology, immunophenotype and distinct molecular genetic alteration(s).
Progress in Materials Development for Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells and Future Prospects
Authors: Mishra Snehangshu , Ghosh Subrata , Singh Trilok
Published: November 2020

The perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as an established technology during the last decade, with the record efficiency of such solar cells having increased from 3.8 % to 25.5 %. Recently, flexible perovskite solar cells (fPSCs) have received much attention from the academic and the industrial communities, owing to their potential for various niche applications, including portable electronics, wearable power sources, electronic textiles, and large‐scale industrial roofing. fPSCs are lightweight, bendable, and suitable for roll‐to‐roll industrial production and can be integrated easily over any surface. This Review discusses the recent development of materials for fPSCs based on various flexible substrates, including plastic, metal, and other flexible substrates, as well as fiber‐shaped perovskite solar cells, with a focus on the device structure, material selection for each layer, mechanical flexibility and the environmental stability of the fPSC devices. Finally, future applications and the outlook for fPSCs are also discussed.
Scheibenschubversuche an Ziegelmauerwerk mit unterschiedlichen Versuchsrandbedingungen
Authors: Triller Petra , Tomaževič Miha , Gams Matija
Published: November 2020

Um das Schubtragverhalten von Mauerwerkswänden in Versuchen realistisch abzubilden, sollten die Versuchsrandbedingungen möglichst den Verhältnissen in Gebäuden entsprechen. Andernfalls würden in den Versuchen ein unrealistisches Verhalten und möglicherweise unzutreffende Bruchmechanismen erzielt. Zur Untersuchung des Einflusses unterschiedlicher Versuchsrandbedingungen wurden am ZAG Ljubljana acht Wände aus Ziegelmauerwerk mit Normalmauermörtel unter vier unterschiedlichen Randbedingungen auf Scheibenschub geprüft. Die Versuchsergebnisse zeigen den deutlichen Einfluss der Versuchsrandbedingungen auf die Tragfähigkeit und Verformungsfähigkeit der Wände.
Diagnostic efficacy of EBUS‐TBNA in benign diseases in a population with a high prevalence of tuberculosis
Authors: Batum Özgür , Katgı Nuran , Özdemir Özer , Yılmaz Ufuk
Published: November 2020

Setting

Although endobronchial ultrasonography‐transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) has a well‐known place in the staging and diagnosis of lung cancer, the place of EBUS is not clear in the diagnosis of benign diseases, especially in countries with a high prevalence of tuberculosis.

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic efficacy of EBUS‐TBNA in benign diseases in a population with a high prevalence of tuberculosis.

Material and Methods

Between October 2011 and March 2018, 1077 EBUS‐TBNA was applied.

Results

The diagnosis was reached with mediastinoscopy or video assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) in 41 (74.5%) and with the second EBUS‐TBNA performed in 14 (25.5%) of 55 EBUS practices in 41 patients with malignancy diagnosis. The final diagnosis was achieved with clinical/radiological features in 7 (77.7%) cases of sarcoidosis, with VATS/mediastinoscopy in 2 (22.2%) cases, with EBUS‐TBNA performed for the second time in 6 (54.5%) tuberculosis cases and with acid‐resistance bacilli reproduction in Lowenstein‐Jensen culture in 5 (45.4%) cases. Two hundred and ninety‐five (79.7%) patients were accepted as “benign disease” due to the absence of radiological and clinical progression of lesions in the follow‐up.

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of EBUS‐TBNA is high in benign diseases such as sarcoidosis and tuberculosis.
Advanced production routes for metal matrix composites
Authors: Mussatto Andre , Ahad Inam UI , Mousavian Reza Taherzadeh , Delaure Yan , Brabazon Dermot
Published: November 2020

The use of metal matrix composites (MMCs) in a variety of products is significantly increasing with time due to the fact that their properties can be tailored and designed to suit specific applications. However, the future usage of MMC products is very much dependent on their beneficial aspects and hence it is critical to ensure in a robust repeatable manner the superior physical property advantages compared to conventional unreinforced monolithic metal counterparts. Although numerous routes are available for production of MMC products, each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. This article provides an overview of advanced production routes for MMCs. The discussion also highlights challenges and presents a future prospectus for MMCs. Powder metallurgy and casting routes are still extensively used for production of MMCs. Aluminum alloys are today the most commonly used matrix materials in MMC products. Carbides (eg, SiC, TiC, and B4C), carbon allotropes (eg, CNTs and graphene), and alumina (Al2O3)are currently the most used reinforcement materials. Nevertheless, the use of nano and of hybrid reinforcements are seeing increased usage in niche applications. Additive manufacturing (AM) is discussed as a novel production route for MMC products. This process represents a promising method for the production of MMC products.
Type IV Collagen 7S Is the Most Accurate Test For Identifying Advanced Fibrosis in NAFLD With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ishiba Hiroshi , Sumida Yoshio , Seko Yuya , Tanaka Saiyu , Yoneda Masato , Hyogo Hideyuki , Ono Masafumi , Fujii Hideki , Eguchi Yuichiro , Suzuki Yasuaki , Yoneda Masashi , Takahashi Hirokazu , Nakahara Takashi , Mori Kojiro , Kanemasa Kazuyuki , Shimada Keiji , Imajo Kento , Yamaguchi Kanji , Kawaguchi Takumi , Nakajima Atsushi , Chayama Kazuaki , Shima Toshihide , Fujimoto Kazuma , Okanoue Takeshi , Itoh Yoshito ,   the Japan Study Group of NAFLD
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to examine whether the diagnostic accuracy of four noninvasive tests (NITs) for detecting advanced fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is maintained or is inferior to with or without the presence of type 2 diabetes. Overall, 874 patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD were enrolled. After propensity‐score matching by age, sex, and the prevalence of dyslipidemia, 311 patients were enrolled in each group of with or without diabetes. To evaluate the effect of diabetes, we compared the diagnostic accuracy of the fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4) index, the NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), and type IV collagen 7S (COL4‐7S) in patients with NAFLD with and without diabetes. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for identifying advanced fibrosis in patients without diabetes were 0.879 for the FIB‐4 index, 0.851 for the NFS, 0.862 for the APRI, and 0.883 for COL4‐7S. The AUROCs in patients with diabetes were 0.790 for the FIB‐4 index, 0.784 for the NFS, 0.771 for the APRI, and 0.872 for COL4‐7S. The AUROC of COL4‐7S was significantly larger than that of the other NITs in patients with NAFLD with diabetes than in those without diabetes. The optimal high and low cutoff points of COL4‐7S were 5.9 ng/mL and 4.8 ng/mL, respectively. At the low cutoff point, the accuracy of COL4‐7S was better than that of the other NITs, especially in patients with diabetes. Conclusion: COL4‐7S measurement might be the best NIT for identifying advanced fibrosis in NAFLD, especially in NAFLD with diabetes.
A study on the motivation of Indian patients to consult complementary and alternative medicine practitioners to treat coronary artery disease
Authors: Singh Arti , Dixit Shikha
Published: November 2020

Background

In India, the use of traditional medicine for health problems is a part of the cultural discourse on treatment, but the introduction of Western medicines has adversely affected their popularity. However, with the rapid spread of chronic diseases like coronary artery disease (CAD), many Indians are reverting to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments. Although previous literature has identified several motivational factors underlying CAM usage, we know little from the perspective of its practitioners.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate the motivations behind the use of CAM treatments among Indian patients with CAD.

Method

Using semi‐structured interviews, we collected data from 15 CAM practitioners and 14 CAD patients utilising CAM treatments alongside conventional biomedical (BM) treatment. We used the Clarke and Braun (2006) method of thematic analysis.

Result and Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the use of CAM treatments depends on various factors working at multiple levels viz., personal factors, disease’ characteristics, perceived treatment characteristics (positive attributes of CAM and negative attributes of BM) and external facilitators. Furthermore, our analysis also identifies the role of two underlining forces—push and pull—in motivating CAD patients to choose CAM treatments. The push force comprises factors that participants found to have a repelling nature, whereas pull forces were regarded as advantageous for CAM usage. Although some reasons behind the usage of CAM treatments according to patients and practitioners were overlapping, both groups also provided many distinct insights into the studied health behaviour.
Brain micro‐vasculature imaging: An unsupervised deep learning algorithm for segmenting mouse brain volume probed by high‐resolution phase‐contrast X‐ray tomography
Authors: Patera Alessandra , Zippo Antonio G. , Bonnin Anne , Stampanoni Marco , Biella Gabriele E. M.
Published: November 2020

High‐throughput synchrotron‐based tomographic microscopy at third generation light sources allows to probe cm‐sized samples at micrometer‐resolution. In this work, we present an approach to image a full mouse brain. With Indian‐ink as a contrast agent, it was possible to obtain 3D distribution of microvessels while a computational framework automatically extracted the morphological and geometrical embedding of the putative vascular systems. Results demonstrate the potentiality of the proposed methodology to visualize and quantify in 3D details of the brain tissue with an image quality and resolution previously unachievable.
The expression profile and bioinformatics analysis of microRNAs in human bronchial epithelial cells treated by beryllium sulfate
Authors: Yi Shan , Liu Yan‐ping , Li Xun‐ya , Yuan Xiao‐yan , Wang Ye , Cai Ying , Lei Yuan‐di , Huang Lian , Zhang Zhao‐hui
Published: November 2020

Beryllium and its compounds are systemic toxicants that mainly accumulate in the lungs. As a regulator of gene expression, microRNAs (miRNAs) were involved in some lung diseases. This study aimed to analyze the levels of some inflammatory cytokine and the differential expressions of miRNAs in human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE) induced by beryllium sulfate (BeSO4) and to further explore the biological functions of differentially expressed miRNAs. The profile of miRNAs in 16HBE cells was detected using the high‐throughput sequencing between the control groups (n = 3) and the 150 μmol/L of BeSO4‐treated groups (n = 3). Bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs was performed, including the prediction of target genes, Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was applied to verify some damage‐related miRNAs. We found that BeSO4 can increase the levels of some inflammatory cytokine such as interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). And BeSO4 altered miRNAs expression of 16HBE cells and a total of 179 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified, including 88 upregulated miRNAs and 91 downregulated miRNAs. The target genes predicted by 28 dysregulated miRNAs were mainly involved in the transcription regulation, signal transduction, MAPK, and VEGF signaling pathway. The qRT‐PCR verification results were consistent with the sequencing results. miRNA expression profiling in 16HBE cells exposed to BeSO4 provides new insights into the toxicity mechanism of beryllium exposure.
How US dental schools can better prepare their students to perform operative procedures
Authors: He Karen , Breitman Leela , Lee Jennifer , Van Doren Emily , Li Alice , Donoff R. Bruce
Published: November 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize the curricular and supplemental resources used by dental students during their operative dentistry course, survey students’ perception of each resource's “helpfulness,” and assess students’ perceptions of preparedness to perform operative dental procedures in clinical settings.

Methods

American Student Dental Association delegates at all accredited dental education programs in the United States were asked to forward an email to students enrolled at their respective institutions explaining the purpose of the study and asking them to fill out our survey. The response rate was calculated using the targeted enrollment data found in American Dental Education Association Official Guide to Dental Schools.

Results

A total of 715 qualified respondents completed our questionnaire for a response rate of 13.5%. 90% of students felt at least “moderately prepared” to perform operative procedures in the clinical environment. The 3 most common curricular resources provided to students were lecture slides (n = 707, 99%), live lectures (n = 664, 93%), and live faculty demonstrations (n = 547, 77%). YouTube was the most common supplemental resource utilized by students (n = 575, 80%). When asked to select which resources were the most helpful for their learning, 49% (270/547) selected live faculty demonstrations, 27% (153/575) selected YouTube videos, and 23% (155/664) selected lectures/lecture slides.

Conclusion

To best meet the expectations of the current generation of dental students and to prevent early‐stage dental learners from being influenced by clinical misinformation online, dental schools should consider adapting and producing more online, video‐based learning resources for their curricula.
Design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel combretastatin A‐4 based chalcone derivatives as anticancer agents
Authors: Rathnakar Bethi , Kumar Gajula S. , Mahammad Saleem P. , Gattu Sridhar , Kalyani Sambaru , Nimma Rameshwar , Satyanarayana Mavurapu
Published: November 2020

A series of combretastatin A‐4 based chalcones (14a‐l) were designed, synthesized and these compounds examined for inhibitory effects on the proliferation of human lung (A549), breast (MCF‐7), melanoma (A375), and colon (HT‐29) carcinoma cells. Compounds 14b, 14c, 14e, 14h, and 14i (tri/dimethoxy, methyl, and mono/dinitro derivatives) have exhibited the most potent antiproliferative activity with IC50 < 2 μM and the hexa methoxy derivative 14b, the most promising one, which displayed the potent inhibitory activities in MCF‐7 (IC50: 10 nM), A375 (IC50: 12 nM), and A549 (IC50: 65 nM) cell lines, and is 18 times more potent than the CA‐4. Compound 14b represents a new scaffold and the results provide insights into further development of anticancer agents.
Rising Costs of Otic Drops: Review of a National Database
Authors: Bluher Andrew E. , Moody‐Antonio Stephanie
Published: November 2020

Objectives

US prescription drug prices have increased substantially during the past decade and now account for approximately 17% of total US health expenditures. Otic drop prices are of particular interest given their common use in otolaryngologic clinical practice. We hypothesized that otic drop prices increased at a rate significantly higher than the overall inflation rate. We considered potential causes for otic drop price fluctuations during this period and whether they could be correlated with corporate restructuring events.

Methods

Publicly available data on otic antibiotic drop pricing was assessed from 2012 to 2020 and were correlated with contemporaneous publicly available information about corporate and political events.

Results

CiproHC (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX, US), Ciprodex (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX, US), Cortisporin‐TC (Endo Pharmaceuticals, Dublin, Ireland), Coly‐Mycin S (JHP Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Rochester, MI, US), generic neomycin‐polymixin‐HC otic drop, ciprofloxacin otic drop, and ofloxacin otic had overall change in cost between January 2014 and January 2020 of 69.9%, 63%, 268.9%, 219.5%, 232.5%, 13%, and 62.4%, respectively. Generic ofloxacin otic drop showed the most price fluctuation, temporarily rising 945% from July 2015 to its peak price of $26/mL in October 2016.

Conclusion

Otic drop prices have been volatile, with overall price increases higher than overall inflation. Drug pricing is not transparent, making it difficult for prescribers and patients alike to be cost conscious when choosing the best therapy. We outline six factors that contribute to high US medication prices and also highlight two examples of otic drops that underwent significant price fluctuation during the studied period.

Level of Evidence

V Laryngoscope, 131:E1069–E1075, 2021
Hyperbranched Poly(Glycidol)‐Grafted Silica Nanoparticles for Enhancing Li‐Ion Conductivity of Poly(Ethylene Oxide)
Authors: Mallela Yadagiri L. N. K. , Jeong Se Young , Kumar Santosh , Lee Jae‐Suk
Published: November 2020

Silica nanoparticles bearing hyperbranched polyglycidol (hbP) grafts are synthesized and blended with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) for the fabrication of composite solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) for enhancing Li‐ion conductivity. Different batches of hbPs are prepared, namely, the 5th, 6th, and 7th with increasing molecular weights using cationic ring‐opening polymerization and grafted the hbPs onto the silica nanoparticles using quaternization reaction. The effect of end functionalization of hbP‐grafted silica nanoparticles with a nitrile functional group (CN–hbP–SiO2) on the ionic conductivity of the blends with PEO is further studied. High dipole moments indicate polar nature of nitriles and show high dielectric constants. Among all the hbPs, the 6th‐batch CN–hbP–SiO2 nanoparticles exhibit better ionic conductivity on blending with PEO showing ionic conductivity of 2.3 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 80 °C. The blends show electrochemical stability up to 4.5 V versus lithium metal.
Zwitterionic Silicone Materials Derived from Aza‐Michael Reaction of Amino‐Functional PDMS with Acrylic Acid
Authors: Genest Aymeric , Portinha Daniel , Pouget Emmanuel , Lamnawar Khalid , Ganachaud Francois , Fleury Etienne
Published: November 2020

Supramolecular zwitterionic silicones are synthesized by aza‐Michael reaction between acrylic acid and amine‐functional polydimethylsiloxanes. The in‐depth characterization of this chemistry, applied for the first time to silicones, is investigated first with model alkylamines (hexylamine, 2‐ethylhexylamine and N‐propylethylenediamine), a model oligosiloxane (3‐aminopropylmethyl bis(trimethylsiloxy)silane), and finally various amino‐polysiloxanes. It is shown that after a first acid–base reaction resulting in ionic pairing, aza‐Michael addition proceeds smoothly in mild conditions (50 °C, 1‐week reaction). Both monoadducts and di‐adducts, together with residual amine, are observed by NMR. The supramolecular assembly of the thus‐created zwitterionic moieties is highlighted by a concomitant increase in viscosity and phase separation, as observed by transmission electron microscopy, bringing an additional glass transition at –40 °C assigned to highly polar ionic clusters. Below the stoichiometry in acrylic acid, all zwitterionic silicones follow the same classical behavior of nonentangled polymers according to the Rouse model, whereas upon introducing an excess of acrylic acid to amino groups, an enhancement of the elasticity is observed. Finally, silicone elastomers with solid‐like behavior and elastomeric mechanical properties are obtained using a high molar mass polymer bearing bifunctional N‐(2‐aminoethyl)‐3‐aminopropyl units that favor a high degree of physical crosslinking.
Formation, Structure, and Mechanical Performance of Silk Nanofibrils Produced by Heat‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Xiao Yuelong , Liu Yawen , Zhang Wenwen , Qi Ping , Ren Jing , Pei Ying , Ling Shengjie
Published: November 2020

The heat‐induced self‐assembly of silk fibroin (SF) is studied by combing fluorescence assessment, infrared nanospectroscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, and Derjaguin−Muller−Toporov coupled with atomic force microscopy. Several fundamental issues regarding the formation, structure, and mechanical performance of silk nanofibrils (SNFs) under heat‐induced self‐assembly are discussed. Accordingly, SF in aqueous solution is rod‐like in shape and not micellar. The formation of SNFs occurs through nucleation‐dependent aggregation, but the assembly period is variable and irregular. SF shows inherent fractal growth, and this trend is critical for the short‐term assembly. The long‐term assembly of SF, however, mainly involves an elongation growth process. SNFs produced by different methods, such as ethanol treatment and heat incubation, have similar secondary structure and mechanical properties. These investigations improve the in‐depth understanding of fundamental issues related to self‐assembly of SNFs, and thus provide inspiration and guidance in designing of silk nanomaterials.