bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ X‐Ray Observations and Microstructural Characterizations for Understanding Combustion Foaming and Reaction Processes to Synthesize Porous Al3Ti Composites From Al–Ti–B4C Powders
Authors: Inukai Takamasa , Suzuki Asuka , Takata Naoki , Kobashi Makoto , Okada Yuji , Furukawa Yuichi
Published: March 2021

The combustion foaming behaviors to synthesize closed‐cellular porous Al3Ti composites are observed in situ using X‐ray radioscopy. The in situ observation of the thermal explosion (TE) mode foaming reveals that the combustion foaming process consists of six steps. The shape of the sample changes uniformly in the first three steps before the sample foams. First, the sample expands uniformly 1) gradual expansion) and maintains an almost constant volume for a fixed period 2) temporary steady state at a constant volume). During these stages, bubbles are not generated inside the sample. Subsequently, the sample shrinks uniformly 3) slight shrinkage). After these three steps, the bubbles are rapidly generated inside the sample 4) rapid foaming). Immediately after foaming, the sample shrinks drastically while bubbles are ruptured and combined 5) severe shrinkage and bubble coarsening). Finally, the sample solidifies as a porous metal 6) solidification). The sample fabricated under the self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis (SHS) mode includes graded microstructures corresponding to steps (1)–(4). The microstructures of the samples foamed under the TE and SHS modes are characterized. These results are used for discussing the elementary reaction steps arising at steps (1)–(4).
Effect of Manufacturing Strategy on the Toughness Behavior of Inconel 625 Laser Metal Deposited Parts
Authors: Verdi Davide , Varadaraju Naresh , Tan Zhi'En Eddie , Patran Alin
Published: March 2021

Nickel‐based superalloys are broadly used to produce high value added components in industrial sectors such as oil and gas, aerospace, energy production, etc. Additive manufacturing represents a viable alternative family of processes for near‐net shape fabrication. Herein, it presents results related to the toughness behavior of laser metal deposited Inconel 625 samples under impact tests, in the as‐deposited and post heat‐treated condition. Laser metal deposition is used to build Inconel 625 Charpy impact tests samples in two different orientations: vertical and horizontal. Half of the samples for each build orientation are subjected to annealing heat treatment whereas the remainder are kept as‐built. Distinct toughness behaviors are observed, with the vertical builds exhibiting a higher absorbed energy than the horizontal one. Furthermore, a decrease in absorbed energy after heat‐treatment is observed in the Charpy impact test results for both deposition orientation samples. A similar behavior is observed through Vickers microhardness measurements. However, in this case, although the horizontal deposited samples result always harder than the vertical ones, the heat treatment reduces the hardness difference between the two deposition directions. The obtained results highlight the influence of the manufacturing strategy on the toughness of the final components.
A Facile Surface Passivation Enables Thermally Stable and Efficient Planar Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Novel IDTT‐Based Small Molecule Additive
Authors: Choi Hyuntae , Liu Xiaoyuan , Kim Hong Il , Kim Dohyun , Park Taiho , Song Seulki
Published: March 2021

Although perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted enormous attention owing to their fascinating optoelectronic properties and solution processability, defects in PSCs, which adversely affect efficiency and stability, are still not completely resolved. Herein, a novel indacenodithieno[3,2‐b]thiophene‐based small molecule (SM) additive (IDTT‐ThCz), capable of interacting with perovskite layers, is developed. In particular, the IDTT‐ThCz, which can perform a surface passivation, is introduced into the perovskite layer to significantly suppress perovskite defects via antisolvent treatment. Furthermore, this facile surface passivation not only significantly improves the charge extraction capability, but also prevents perovskite degradation. The IDTT‐ThCz‐treated PSCs exhibits a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.5% and retains 95% of its initial PCE after 500 h storage under thermal condition (85 °C), representing the most remarkable efficiency as well as stability among the SM additives reported to date.
Investigation of (epi)genotype causes and follow‐up manifestations in the patients with classical and atypical phenotype ofBeckwith‐Wiedemannspectrum
Authors: Tüysüz Beyhan , Güneş Nilay , Geyik Filiz , Yeşil Gözde , Celkan Tiraje , Vural Mehmet
Published: March 2021

Beckwith‐Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is a genomic imprinting disorder, characterized by macroglossia, abdominal wall defects, lateralized overgrowth, and predisposition to embryonal tumors. It is caused by the defect of imprinted genes on chromosome 11p15.5, regulated by imprinting control (IC) domains, IC1, and IC2. Rarely,CDKN1Cand chromosomal changes can be detected. The aim of this study is to retrospectively evaluate 55 patients with BWS using the new diagnostic criteria developed by the BWS consensus, and to investigate (epi)genetic changes and follow‐up findings in classic and atypical phenotypes. Loss of methylation in IC2 region (IC2‐LoM), 11p15.5 paternal uniparental disomy (pUPD11), and methylation gain in IC1 region (IC1‐GoM) are detected in 31, eight, and five patients, respectively. Eleven patients have had no molecular defects. Thirty‐five patients are classified as classical and 20 as atypical phenotype. Patients with classical phenotype are more frequent in the IC2‐LoM (25/31), while patients with atypical phenotype are common in the pUPD11 group (5/8). Malignant tumors have developed in six patients (10.9%); three of these patients have IC1‐GoM, two pUPD11, one IC2‐LoM genotype, and four an atypical phenotype. We observed that the face was round in the infantile period and elongated as the child grew‐up, developing prognathism and becoming asymmetrical if hemi‐macroglossia was present in the classical phenotype. These findings were mild in the atypical phenotype. These results support the importance of using the new diagnostic criteria to facilitate the diagnosis of patients with atypical phenotype who have higher tumors risk. This study also provides important information about facial gestalt.
Frailty and Risk of Dementia in Mild Cognitive Impairment Subtypes
Authors: Ward David D. , Wallace Lindsay M. K. , Rockwood Kenneth
Published: March 2021

Risk factors for developing dementia from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) probably differ between MCI subtypes. We investigated how frailty relates to dementia risk in amnestic MCI (a‐MCI; n = 2,799) and non‐amnestic MCI (na‐MCI; n = 629) in the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center database. Although higher frailty increased dementia risk for people with either a‐MCI or na‐MCI, the larger risk was in na‐MCI (interaction hazard ratio = 1.35 [95% confidence interval = 1.15–1.59], p < 0.001). Even after the onset of clinically significant cognitive impairment, poor general health, quantified by a high degree of frailty, is a significant risk for dementia. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:1221–1225
High‐Efficiency Separation ofn‐Hexane by a Dynamic Metal‐Organic Framework with Reduced Energy Consumption
Authors: Chen Qiang , Xian Shikai , Dong Xinglong , Liu Yanyao , Wang Hao , Olson David H. , Williams Lawrence J. , Han Yu , Bu Xian‐He , Li Jing
Published: March 2021

The separation ofn‐alkanes from their branched isomers is vitally important to improve octane rating of gasoline. To facilitate mass transfer, adsorptive separation is usually operated under high temperatures in industry, which require considerable energy. Herein, we present a kind of dynamic pillar‐layered MOF that exhibits self‐adjustable structure and pore space, a behavior induced by guest molecules. A combination of the flexibility of the framework with the commensurate adsorption forn‐hexane results in exceptional performance in separating hexane isomers. More significantly, lower temperature prompts the guest molecules to open the dynamic pores, which may provide a new perspective for optimized separation performance at lower temperatures with less energy consumption.
Investigation of porous polydimethylsiloxane structures with tunable properties induced by the phase separation technique
Authors: Abshirini Mohammad , Saha Mrinal C. , Altan M. Cengiz , Liu Yingtao , Cummings Laura , Robison Thomas
Published: March 2021

This article reports the fabrication and characterization of porous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) structures developed by the solvent evaporation‐induced phase separation technique. Ternary systems containing water/tetrahydrofuran (THF)/PDMS with various concentrations are produced to form a stable solution. The porous PDMS structures are formed by removing the solvent (THF) and nonsolvent (water) phases during the stepping heat treatment procedure. The analytical ternary phase diagram is constructed based on the thermodynamic equilibrium state in the polymer solution to explain the stable/unstable formulations and the possible composition change path. The results show that the isolated pores with the adjustable pore size ranging from 330 to 1900 μm are obtained by tuning the water to the THF ratio. The mechanical properties of the porous PDMS structures are determined by conducting the tensile tests on the prepared dog bone‐shaped specimens. A wide range of elastic modulus ranging between 0.49 and 1.05 MPa was achieved without affecting the density of the porous sample by adjusting the solvent and non‐solvent content in the solution. It is shown that the flexibility of the porous structures can be improved by reducing the ratio of water to THF and decreasing the PDMS content. The porosity measurements reveal that the PDMS concentration is the major phase controlling the porosity of the structure, while the effect of water/THF is negligible.
The association of resistance training with risk of ovarian cancer
Authors: Buras Andrea L , Hathaway Cassandra A , Wang Tianyi , Townsend Mary K , Tworoger Shelley S
Published: March 2021

Background

Increasing evidence, including multiple putative inflammatory risk factors (e.g., c‐reactive protein, and adiposity), supports that inflammation plays an important role in ovarian carcinogenesis. Resistance training (RT) is associated with lower levels of circulating inflammatory markers, independent of physical activity.

Methods

We evaluated the relationship between RT and risk of ovarian cancer accounting for other physical activity (e.g., walking) in two large prospective cohorts, the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and NHSII.

Key Results

In total, analyses included 42,005 NHS participants (2000–2016) and 67,289 NHSII participants (2001–2017) with RT assessed every 4 years. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of RT with ovarian cancer risk overall and by tumor subtype, adjusting for known and putative ovarian cancer risk factors. We identified a total of 609 cases over 1,748,884 person‐years. No association was observed with overall ovarian cancer risk (RT ≥60 vs 0 min/wk, HR = 0.95, 95%CI: 0.74–1.22) or by histotype (comparable HR = 0.86 and 0.98 for type I and II tumors, respectively). Results did not differ by body mass index (Pinteraction = 0.97), or other physical activity (Pinteraction = 0.31).

Conclusions & Inferences

We observed no evidence that moderate levels of RT were associated with risk of ovarian cancer. Further investigations are required to confirm these findings.
Ucuùba Fat Characterization and Use to Obtain Lipid Nanoparticles by High‐Pressure Homogenization with Full Factorial Design
Authors: Pereira Rayanne R. , Gomes Antonio T. A. , Testi Matteo , Bianchera Annalisa , Ribeiro-Costa Roseane M. , Padula Cristina , Silva Júnior José O. C. , Sonvico Fabio
Published: March 2021

Ucuùba fat was characterized and used as the lipid phase for the production of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). The acid, iodine, refraction, and saponification values as well as the oxidative stability of the fat were determined. The myristic acid was found to be the main fatty acid present in the fat. NLCs were produced by high‐pressure homogenization with tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) or Tween 80 as surfactant. A full factorial experimental design 22 was applied to evaluate the impact of production parameters on particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) of the nanocarrier. The design of experiments (DoE) demonstrated that the increase of pressure and number cycle homogenization positively contributed to reduce the mean particle size and PDI of NLCs only when TPGS was present.
Watermelon Peel‐Derived Heteroatom‐Doped Hierarchical Porous Carbon as a High‐Performance Electrode Material for Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Pei , Mu Jiahui , Guo Ziyu , Wong Shao Ing , Sunarso Jaka , Zhao Yi , Xing Wei , Zhou Jin , Zhuo Shuping
Published: March 2021

This work presents for the first time the systematic characterization and excellent supercapacitor performance of heteroatom‐doped porous carbon materials (HPC) synthesized by direct pyrolysis of watermelon peel and urea via molten salt template route in air with non‐toxic activating agent. The molten salt not only protects the derived carbon from burning during high‐temperature pyrolysis, but can also be etched to generate abundant hierarchical pores in the final products. The obtained HPC exhibits a high specific surface area of 1660 m2 g−1 and shows high specific capacitances of up to 278 F g−1 in 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. The symmetrical device also demonstrates a remarkable specific capacitance of up to 226 F g−1 and ultrahigh initial capacitance retention of 98 % after 10,000 cycles of charge/discharge at the current density of 10 A g−1. The porous carbon produced via this green chemical activation route demonstrates great potential as electrode materials in supercapacitor.
Vaccines: Underlying Principles of Design and Testing
Authors: Kallon Sallay , Samir Shahryar , Goonetilleke Nilu
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we review the key elements that should be considered to take a novel vaccine from the laboratory through to licensure in the modern era. This paper is divided into four sections. First, we discuss the host immune responses that we engage with vaccines. Second, we discuss how in vivo and in vitro studies can inform vaccine design. Third, we discuss different vaccine modalities that have been licensed or are in testing in humans. Last, we overview the basic principles of vaccine approvals. Throughout we provide real‐world examples of vaccine development against infectious diseases, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).
Intercropping Pulse and Oilseed Crops in Southern Alberta
Authors: Bremer and Eric , Greer Ken
Published: March 2021

Intercropping is the practice of growing two or more crops at the same time. While putting two crops together usually means less yield for each crop, overall productivity is often increased due to complementary growth habits. A common metric for evaluating the impact of intercropping on overall productivity is the land equivalent ratio (LER). Field trials were conducted over the past three year to evaluate the primary factors controlling LER for pulse–oilseed intercrops in southern Alberta. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Crop Management by reading the article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/942.
Diagnosis of solid tumors in infants by fine‐needle aspiration cytology: 5 years retrospective study from a tertiary care oncology center in South India
Authors: Mukundapai Malathi , Agrawal Mohit , Nargund Ashwini , Patil Okaly Geeta V. , Kavitha B. L. , Padma M. , Madhu S. D.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Neuroblastoma (NB), Wilms tumor (WT), hepatoblastoma (HBL), germ cell tumors (GCT), rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), and so forth are the commonly identified solid tumors in infants. Invasive diagnostic techniques are more challenging in infants than older children. fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a safe, minimally invasive and outpatient procedure which is time and cost‐effective for solid tumor diagnosis. This study aims to evaluate the role of FNAC in the diagnosis of various infantile solid tumors.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 61 cases of FNA of infant solid tumors were retrieved from the cytology archives over a period of 5 years from January 2013 to December 2017. Cytomorphology was studied and immunohistochemistry on cell block was performed wherever feasible. Histopathological correlation was done in 19 cases.

Results

Of the 61 cases studied, 60 cases were included in the study of which 35 were male and 25 were female. Infantile solid tumors constituted 7.3% of all pediatric solid tumors reported in cytopathology division of our Institute. The most common final diagnosis was NB (15, 25%) followed by HBL (13, 21.6%), WT (10, 16.6%), RMS (nine, 15%) and GCT (nine, 15%). The commonest site was abdominal‐pelvic (42, 70%). A definitive independent diagnosis could be made on FNA in 48 cases (80%). Follow‐up was done for 1.5 to 4 years (mean 26 months). The highest and lowest mortality was noted in NB (64.3%) and WT (12.5%) respectively.

Conclusion

This study concludes that FNAC can be adopted as a diagnostic modality in infant solid tumors.
Spotted hyaena Crocuta crocuta feeding ecology and selectivity of large herbivorous prey in the Namib desert
Authors: Fester Karl Sebastian Moritz , Hockings Georgina , van Vuuren Rudie Jansen , van Vuuren Marlice
Published: March 2021

We have investigated the relationship between spotted hyaenas in the south Namib Desert and large herbivorous prey and have summarized an updated overview of predator‐prey relationships in this resource‐limited arid environment. Over the 52‐month study, we recorded the densities (#/km−2, ±SE) of the four local large herbivorous prey species: gemsbok (1.229, ±0.50), springbok (1.352, ±0.48), ostrich (0.648, ±0.23), and greater kudu (0.343, ±0.00). A fecal analysis was performed on 146 collected spotted hyaena scats, and prey items were identified and hairs cross‐follicle analyzed to the species level. Spotted hyaena diet at the study area remained opportunistic with 240 identified prey items representing eight differing prey species being recorded, ranging from ostrich eggs to large ungulates. The Ivlev's Electivity Index was used to determine which large herbivorous prey was most selected for. Although gemsbok had a higher representation of prey items in the sampled scats, all sampled large herbivorous prey species scored below 0 and are thus generally avoided in relation to their availability in the environment. If any prey preferences are expressed by spotted hyaena in the Namib, it can be presumed to be a nonsampled prey species. We therefore promote further detailed investigations into all other prey species present, and seasonal variations of prey densities and scat sampling, within the study environment.
Plasma P‐selectin is a predictor of mortality in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Kanagala Prathap , Arnold Jayanth R. , Khan Jamal N. , Singh Anvesha , Gulsin Gaurav S. , Squire Iain B. , McCann Gerry P. , Ng Leong L.
Published: March 2021

Aims

The aim of the study was to assess the association of P‐selectin with outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

This is a prospective, observational study of 130 HFpEF patients who underwent clinical profiling, blood sampling, 6 min walk testing, Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire evaluation, echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, calculation of the Meta‐Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) risk scores, and blinded plasma P‐selectin measurement. Patients were followed up for the endpoint of all‐cause mortality. The HFpEF subgroup with higher P‐selectin levels [overall median 26 372, inter‐quartile range (19 360–34 889) pg/mL] was associated with lower age, higher heart rate, less prevalent atrial fibrillation, more frequent current smoking status, and lower right ventricular end‐diastolic volumes. During follow‐up (median 1428 days), there were 38 deaths. Following maximal sensitivity and specificity receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, P‐selectin levels above 35 506 pg/mL were associated with greater risk of all‐cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 2.700; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.416–5.146; log‐rank P = 0.002]. Following multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and when added to MAGGIC scores, only P‐selectin (adjusted HR 1.707; 95% CI 1.099–2.650; P < 0.017) and myocardial infarction detected by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (HR 2.377; 95% CI 1.114–5.075; P < 0.025) remained significant predictors. In a final model comprising all three parameters, only P‐selectin (HR 1.447; 95% CI 1.130–1.853; P < 0.003) and MAGGIC scores (HR 1.555; 95% CI 1.136–2.129; P < 0.006) remained independent predictors of death. Adding P‐selectin (0.618, P = 0.035) improved the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for mortality prediction for MAGGIC scores (0.647, P = 0.009) to 0.710, P < 0.0001.

Conclusions

Plasma P‐selectin is an independent predictor of mortality and provides incremental prognostic information beyond MAGGIC scores in HFpEF.
Remarkable Effect of tert‐Amine Additives in the Asymmetric Direct Michael Reaction of Ketones with β‐Arylnitroethenes Catalyzed by an L‐Hydroxyproline‐Based Amino Tf‐Amide Organocatalyst
Authors: Lu Hanbin , Lv Jiamin , Zhou Canhua , Zhou Mi , Fang Yanxiong , Dong Jinxiang , Kato Terumasa , Liu Yan , Maruoka Keiji
Published: March 2021

A catalytic asymmetric direct Michael reaction of ketones with trans‐β‐arylnitroethenes can be achieved under the influence of optically pure L‐hydroxyproline‐based secondary‐amino aromatic Tf‐amide organocatalyst. The effect of the trialkylamine base additive such as diethylmethylamine is of paramount importance to accomplish high reactivity and enantioselectivity in this asymmetric Michael reaction.
Don’t tell me about my moral failures but motivate me to improve: Increasing effectiveness of outgroup criticism by criticizing one’s competence
Authors: Rösler Inga K. , van Nunspeet Félice , Ellemers Naomi
Published: March 2021

Criticizing people on their prior moral failures often causes them to react defensively, especially when this is done by an outgroup. In the current research, we tested whether people become more receptive to such outgroup criticism when it refers to (failures of) their competence, rather than their morality. We conducted two studies, using a 2: Critic's group‐membership (receiving criticism from an ingroup vs. outgroup) × 2: Dimension (competence vs. morality as focal concern addressed with the criticism) mixed design. Findings showed that, regardless of source, participants made fewer negative attributions, were more motivated to improve, and more often indicated they changed their behavior after they had been criticized on their competence, instead of on their morality. Thus, criticizing past behavior for failing to show competence instead of morality might be a way to reduce defensive responses and to stimulate behavior change, even for outgroup critics.
An Ultra‐sensitive Electrochemiluminescent Detection of Carcinoembryonic Antigen Using a Hollowed‐out Electrode
Authors: Liu Gen , Gao Hui , Chen Jiajia , Shao Congying , Chen Feifei
Published: March 2021

Ultrasensitive detection of cancer biomarkers has attracted considerable attention recently in academic research and clinic diagnostics. Here, we use a hollowed‐out carbon nanotube sponge (CNTSP) electrode to fabricate an immunosensor to realize the sensitive detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). Nitrogen‐doped carbon quantum dots (N‐CDs) are combined with antibody that can specially recognize CEA and used as the electrochemiluminescent (ECL) probes in this work. The hollowed‐out and permeable CNTSP facilitates chemical species exchange on the surface of electrode, offering an enhanced ECL signal. The resulting ECL immunosensor enables the determination of CEA concentration to be in a wide linear range from 0.005 to 50 pg mL−1 with a detection limit of 1.4 fg mL−1. Furthermore, with good stability, acceptable precision and reproducibility, the proposed ECL assay strategy offers a wide application potential in clinical analysis.
The low‐field NMR studies the change in cellular water in tilapia fillet tissue during different drying conditions
Authors: Luo Jing , Li Min , Zhang Ying , Zheng Man , Ming Ling Chang
Published: March 2021

The muscle is a highly organized tissue, where there are three different moistures including free water, entrapped water, and bound water. These moistures were distributed in intercellular spaces, intracellular spaces, and other solute environments, respectively. Understanding the moisture migration in different environments is crucial to enhance energy efficiency and improve the quality of processed food. Therefore, the tilapia fillets were used to experiment, and the low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance technique is used to measure the change in different moistures during the drying process. The study found that free water is the highest when cell membranes started to rupture. In addition, it also observed that the cell membrane ruptures at different stages of drying. The result of this study provides critical information that could be used to guide the study of the dynamic mechanisms underlying drying and the development of drying technology for tilapia fillets and similar aquatic products.
Analysis of decomposition in 23 seafood products by liquid chromatography with high‐resolution mass spectrometry with sensory‐driven modeling
Authors: Self Randy L. , McLendon Michael G. , Lock Christopher M. , Hu Jinxin
Published: March 2021

Samples of 23 seafood products were obtained internationally in processing plants and subjected to controlled decomposition to produce seven discrete quality increments. A sensory expert evaluated each sample for decomposition, using a scale of 1–100. Samples were then extracted and analyzed by liquid chromatography with high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS). Untargeted data processing was performed, and a sensory‐driven Random Forest model in the R programming language for each product was created. Five samples of each quality increment were analyzed in duplicate on separate days. Scores analogous to those obtained through sensory analysis were calculated by this approach, and these were compared to the original sensory findings. Correlation values (r) were calculated from these plots and ranged from 0.971 to 0.999. The finding of decomposition state of each sample was consistent with sensory for 548 of 550 test samples (99.6%). Of the two misidentified samples, one was a false negative, and one false positive (0.2% each). One additional sample from each of the 1st, 4th, and 7th increments of each product was extracted and analyzed on a third separate day to evaluate reproducibility. The range of these triplicate calculated scores was 15 or less for all samples tested, 10 or less for 63 of the 69 triplicate tests (91%), and five or less for 41 (59%). From the models, the most predictive compounds of interest were selected, and many of these were identified using MS2 data with standard or database comparison, allowing identification of compounds indicative of decomposition in these products which have not previously been explored for this purpose.
A CRISPR/Cas9‐based method for targeted DNA methylation enables cancer initiation in B lymphocytes
Authors: Katayama Shota , Shiraishi Koichi , Gorai Naoki , Andou Masao
Published: March 2021

Targeted DNA methylation is important for understanding transcriptional modulation and epigenetic diseases. Although CRISPR‐Cas9 has potential for this purpose, it has not yet been successfully used to efficiently introduce DNA methylation and induce epigenetic diseases. We herein developed a new system that enables the replacement of an unmethylated promoter with a methylated promoter through microhomology‐mediated end joining‐based knock‐in. We successfully introduced an approximately 100% DNA methylation ratio at the cancer‐associated gene SP3 in HEK293 cells. Moreover, engineered SP3 promoter hypermethylation led to transcriptional suppression in human B lymphocytes and induced B‐cell lymphoma. Our system provides a promising framework for targeted DNA methylation and cancer initiation through epimutations.
Treatment and Renal Outcomes Up to 96 Weeks After Tenofovir Alafenamide Switch From Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Routine Practice
Authors: Toyoda Hidenori , Leong Jennifer , Landis Charles , Atsukawa Masanori , Watanabe Tsunamasa , Huang Daniel Q. , Liu Joanne , Quek Sabrina Xin Zi , Ishikawa Toru , Arai Taeang , Yokohama Keisuke , Chuma Makoto , Takaguchi Koichi , Uojima Haruki , Senoo Tomonori , Dang Hansen , Maeda Mayumi , Hoang Joseph , Le Richard H. , Yasuda Satoshi , Thin Khin N. , Tran Sally , Chien Nicholas , Henry Linda , Asai Akira , Fukunishi Shinya , Cheung Ramsey , Lim Seng Gee , Trinh Huy N. , Nguyen Mindie H.
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Real‐world data for treatment effectiveness and renal outcomes in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients who were switched to the new and safer prodrug tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) are limited. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate treatment and renal outcomes of this population.

Approach and Results

We analyzed 834 patients with CHB previously treated with TDF for ≥12 months who were switched to TAF in routine practice at 13 US and Asian centers for changes in viral (HBV DNA < 20 IU/mL), biochemical (alanine aminotransferase [ALT] < 35/25 U/L for male/female), and complete (viral+biochemical) responses, as well as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters) up to 96 weeks after switch. Viral suppression (P < 0.001) and ALT normalization (P = 0.003) rates increased significantly after switch, with a trend for increasing complete response (P
trend = 0.004), while the eGFR trend (P
trend > 0.44) or mean eGFR (P > 0.83, adjusted for age, sex, baseline eGFR, and diabetes, hypertension, or cirrhosis by generalized linear modeling) remained stable. However, among those with baseline eGFR < 90 (chronic kidney disease [CKD] stage ≥2), mean eGFR decreased significantly while on TDF (P = 0.029) but not after TAF switch (P = 0.90). By week 96, 21% (55/267) of patients with CKD stage 2 at switch improved to stage 1 and 35% (30/85) of CKD stage 3‐5 patients improved to stage 2 and 1.2% (1/85) to stage 1.

Conclusions

Overall, we observed continued improvement in virologic response, ALT normalization, and no significant changes in eGFR following switch to TAF from TDF.
Hybrid Spaces: Adolescent Literacy and Learning in a Museum
Authors: Hamilton Erica R. , Van Duinen Deborah V.
Published: March 2021

Learning how to teach in a hybrid space, such as a museum, opens up possibilities for preservice teachers to expand their definitions of literacy and experience teaching and learning with adolescents in new ways. This two‐year study reports findings from a university‐museum partnership in which preservice teachers (N = 81) worked with sixth‐grade students each week in a museum setting. Findings suggest that being in this hybrid space provided opportunities for preservice teachers to expand their definitions of literacy and text as well as extend and enhance sixth‐graders' curricular connections. Teaching in a hybrid space also provided new opportunities to think about adolescents as learners, including the repositioning of secondary students as teachers. Finally, this study’s findings demonstrate the importance of learning how to connect and use hybrid spaces to support adolescents’ learning and literacy development.
The selective toxicity of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) by targeting their mitochondria
Authors: Afrasiabi Mona , Seydi Enayatollah , Rahimi Shabnam , Tahmasebi Ghazaleh , Jahanbani Jahanfar , Pourahmad Jalal
Published: March 2021

In recent years, many researchers have made tremendous efforts into using nanotechnology in biomedical applications and science, such as magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery, and in particular, oncological therapeutic via superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and especially oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) have been a serious and ongoing concern. There are many strong emphases on the importance of toxic mechanisms due to oxidative stress and specifically, the changed cellular response. Therefore, our study was designed to evaluate the effects of SPIONs on OSCC mitochondria because of the usefulness of the application of these nanoparticles in cancer treatment and diagnosis. An increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is one of the substantial mechanisms found for SPIONs in this study, and initially originated from disruption of the electron transfer chain shown by a decrease in mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase activity. Increased ROS formation subsequently followed a decline of mitochondrial membrane potential, the release of mitochondrial cytochrome complex, and mitochondrial swelling in the OSCC mitochondria compared with almost no effect in normal mitochondria. In addition, the SPIONs decreased cell viability and increased lipid peroxidation level and caspase‐3 activity in OSCC cells. The results represented that the exposure to the SPIONs induced selective toxicity only on the OSCC but not normal mitochondria. Based on our findings, we finally concluded that the SPIONs may be considered as a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of OSCC.
IncRNA MVIH correlates with disease features, predicts treatment response and survival in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Xue Hongjuan , Gao Haili , Xia Hong , Li Shaofei , Li Na , Gao Chao , Duan Yuwen , Ren Yanfei , Zhang Henglu , Liu Jingzheng , Gao Wei
Published: March 2021

Objective

Long non‐coding RNA microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma (lnc‐MVIH) is correlated with unfavorable prognosis in several malignancies, while limitedly studied in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study aimed to investigate the correlation of lnc‐MVIH with disease features, response to induction therapy, and survival in pediatric AML patients.

Methods

A total of 129 de novo pediatric AML patients who were retrospectively analyzed and 60 children with non‐malignant hematological diseases who underwent bone marrow examination were reviewed as controls. Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) were isolated from all participants to detect lnc‐MVIH expression by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The complete remission status after 1 course of induction therapy, event‐free survival, and overall survival of pediatric AML patients were recorded.

Results

Lnc‐MVIH was upregulated in pediatric AML patients compared with controls (p < 0.001). In pediatric AML patients, lnc‐MVIH was correlated with increased bone marrow blasts, less inv(16) or t(16;16) abnormity, and higher Chinese Medical Association (CMA) risk stratification (all p < 0.05), whereas its correlation with National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk stratification was not statistically significant (p = 0.098). As for prognosis, lnc‐MVIH high expression patients presented with lower complete response rate to 1 course of induction therapy (61.5% vs. 79.7%, p = 0.024), shorter event‐free survival (median 12.0 months vs. 22.0 months, p = 0.006), and overall survival (median 28.0 months vs. 42.0 months, p = 0.043) compared with lnc‐MVIH low expression patients.

Conclusion

Lnc‐MVIH correlates with poor treatment response and unfavorable survival in pediatric AML.
Immunoinformatic analysis of structural and epitope variations in the spike and Orf8 proteins of SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7
Authors: Hussain Mushtaq , Shabbir Sanya , Amanullah Anusha , Raza Fozia , Imdad Muhammad J. , Zahid Sahar
Published: March 2021

A newly emerged strain of SARS‐CoV‐2 of B.1.1.7 lineage has caused a significant surge in the SARS‐CoV‐2 infections in the UK. In this study, changes in the epitopes of spike and orf8 proteins in SARS‐CoV‐2 of B.1.1.7 lineage were investigated. Genomic alignment of the SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7 with SARS‐CoV‐2/Wuhan showed the presence of several mutations in orf1a/b, spike, orf8, and N proteins of SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7. Molecular models of spike and orf8 proteins were constructed by homology modeling. Superimposition between the spike proteins of SARS‐CoV‐2/Wuhan and SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7 showed noticeable variations in the spatial orientation in Val70‐Asn74 and Thr250‐Ser255 regions. This may have also resulted in the extension of the epitopic region at Ser244‐Gly249 in the SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7 spike protein. Superimposition of the SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7 spike protein over Fab‐spike protein complexes of SARS‐CoV‐2/Wuhan also showed subtle variations in the antibody binding affinity targeting the N‐terminal domain of the spike protein. Epitopic variations were also observed between the corresponding orf8 regions of SARS‐CoV‐2/Wuhan and SARS‐CoV‐2/B.1.1.7. Moreover, the presence of a stop codon at position 27 in orf8 connotes the emergence of two frames (orf8a and orf8b) in SARS‐CoV‐2, which further hampers its extracellular secretion, and in turn, immunogenicity. The findings of the present study could further be used to develop targeted immunotherapeutics.
Cardiac Involvement in Movement Disorders
Authors: Rossi Malco , Wainsztein Nestor , Merello Marcelo
Published: March 2021

Background

Several conditions represented mainly by movement disorders are associated with cardiac disease, which can be overlooked in clinical practice in the context of a prominent primary neurological disorder.

Objectives

To review neurological conditions that combine movement disorders and primary cardiac involvement.

Methods

A comprehensive and structured literature search following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses criteria was conducted to identify disorders combining movement disorders and cardiac disease.

Results

Some movement disorders are commonly or prominently associated with cardiac disease. Neurological and cardiac symptoms may share underlying physiopathological mechanisms in diseases, such as Friedreichʼs ataxia and Wilsonʼs disease, and in certain metabolic disorders, including Refsum disease, Gaucher disease, a congenital disorder of glycosylation, or cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. In certain conditions, such as Sydenhamʼs chorea or dilated cardiomyopathy with ataxia syndrome (ATX‐DNAJC19), heart involvement can present early in the course of disease, whereas in others such as Friedreichʼs ataxia or Refsum disease, cardiac symptoms tend to present in later stages. In another 68 acquired or inherited conditions, cardiac involvement or movement disorders are seldom reported.

Conclusions

As cardiac disease is part of the phenotypic spectrum of several movement disorders, heart involvement should be carefully investigated and increased awareness of this association encouraged as it may represent a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.
Application of Ferrans et al.'s conceptual model of health‐related quality of life: A systematic review
Authors: Duangchan Cherdsak , Matthews Alicia K.
Published: March 2021

Ferrans, Zerwic, Wilbur, and Larson proposed the conceptual model of health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in 2005 to explicate the constructs associated with HRQOL and to describe the associations among those constructs. In this systematic review, the authors aimed to describe empirical studies that used Ferrans et al.'s model and to examine the evidence related to the hypothesized model concepts. This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. Relevant articles were identified using Crossref, CINAHL, and PubMed. To be included, studies had to employ the model as a theoretical framework and be published in English between 2005 and 2020. Type of theory use was coded using four designations: informed by theory, applied theory, testing theory, and building theory. Thirty‐one studies were included. Most studies involved adult patients with chronic illnesses (n = 20) and were conducted in Western countries (n = 22). The most common type of theory use was testing theory (74.19%). Among the seven concepts in Ferrans et al.'s model, all 20 hypothesized associations were tested and 19 were supported by study results. The three associations most frequently supported were between symptoms and functional status (n = 13), environmental characteristics and quality of life (n = 10), and individual characteristics and functional status (n = 8). No studies found an association between environmental characteristics and biological function. Our review found that Ferrans et al.'s model has been used extensively to guide HRQOL research. An emerging body of research provides preliminary support for the associations hypothesized in the model. Additional research is needed to confirm the hypothesized associations among model concepts.
The effect of different grafting extent of PBO‐MoS2 hybrids on the tribological performance of TPI‐based composites at high temperatures
Authors: Yan Yunfeng , Meng Zhaojie , Wang Jianzhang , Yan Fengyuan
Published: March 2021

The self‐assembled hybrids were synthesized as a kind of filler with the function of reinforcing and lubricating, by which can improve its dispersion in the matrix, and enhance the interfacial adhesion with the matrix. However, the effect of the amount of grafting on the hybrid properties is still unclear. In this study, a series of antiwear hybrids with different grafting amount were synthesized and further be used to reinforce thermoplastic polyimide matrix. The method of comparative analysis had been applied to analyze the microstructural morphology, thermal property, mechanical property, and high temperature tribological behavior of these composites. The results indicated that with the increasing grafting amount of MoS2 on the PBO fiber surface in a certain range, the integrated performance of the composite increases.
Mechanical Properties and Thermal Decomposition Behaviors of Hydroxyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene/Glycerol Propoxylate Blend and Its Application to Ammonium Nitrate‐Based Propellants
Authors: Kohga Makoto , Togashi Ryoto
Published: March 2021

Hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) is commonly used as a binder ingredient in composite propellants. In this study, a plasticizer was added to the binder to promote its plasticity and flexibility. Glycerol propoxylate (GPO) is a triol material with a zigzag structure, and it has one oxygen atom in a repeating unit. GPO would be a good plasticizer for HTPB binder to obtain good elasticity; furthermore, it would be suitable for improving the burning characteristics of the HTPB propellant. The addition of GPO to the HTPB binder was effective in extending the pot life and improving the mechanical properties of the propellant. The thermal decomposition behaviors of the HTPB/GPO blends were almost the same as that of the HTPB binder, except that the beginning consumption temperature of the blends was lower than that of HTPB. The ignitability at low pressure for the ammonium nitrate‐based propellant was improved by using the HTPB/GPO binder, whereas GPO did not enhance the burning rate of the propellant.
Synthesis, Antimicrobial Activity, Anti‐HIV Activity, and Molecular Docking of Novel 5‐, 6‐ and 7‐Membered Ring (1H‐Pyrrol‐2‐yl)aminolactams
Authors: Jassem Ahmed Majeed , Dhumad Adil Muala
Published: March 2021

An efficient method has been developed for the synthesis of novel 5‐, 6‐ and 7‐membered ring (1H‐pyrrol‐2‐yl)aminolactams 5 a–f. This method featured Ugi‐4‐center‐3‐component reaction (U4 C3 C) followed by a post‐transformation reaction. All the newly synthesized (1H‐pyrrol‐2‐yl)aminolactams 5 a–f have been screened against six microbial species and the results revealed that these lactams exhibited moderate to good activity. These lactams were also tested in an in vitro for their antiviral activity against of HIV‐1 and HIV‐2 replication using MT‐4 cells. The testing results showed that compound 5 f is the only compound in the set lactams exhibiting a significant inhibition against HIV‐1 replication in cell line with EC50 value of 2.74±1.08 μM (CC50 of 18.93±4.0 μM), and SI 6. In addition, the compound 5 f was docked with essential proteins of HIV‐1 and HIV‐2 reverses transcriptase (RT), including HIV‐1 and HIV‐2 integrases strand proteins (PDB ID: 1EP4, 1FK9, 1HNV, 1VRU, 3DLE, 3DLG, and 3MEC). The docking results revealed that important hydrogen bond interactions and hydrophobic interactions were found between the compound 5 f and the essential amino acids residues of HIV‐1 and HIV‐2 (RT) proteins.
Introduction
Authors: Ryoo Jungwoo , Winkelmann Kurt
Published: March 2021

The practice of educating students in college-level science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects is influenced by many factors, including education research, governmental and school policies, financial considerations, technology limitations, and acceptance of innovations by faculty and students. Working together, stakeholders in STEM higher education must find creative ways to address the increasing need for a diverse US workforce with a strong STEM background (President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology 2012) and the need for a more STEM-literate general population (National Research Council 2012).
Personalized and Adaptive Learning
Authors: Taylor Deborah L. , Yeung Michelle , Bashet A. Z.
Published: March 2021

Personalized and adaptive learning has been touted to be one of the most promising emerging tools for increasing student learning and student success. Yet, the terms are neither precise nor clearly defined at this time, thus making it difficult for institutions of higher education to adopt and implement a learning approach using technology that is in its infancy and not clearly understood by those who will be utilizing it. One goal of this chapter is to define adaptive and personalized learning as it is used at this time in the hopes that as the technology evolves the promise of increased student learning can come to fruition. Adaptive learning personalizes learning by continuously evaluating each student’s performance in real time and creating an ever-changing individualized learning pathway as directed by artificial intelligence and machine learning, thus increasing learning and student satisfaction.