bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of endogenous Kv1.3 channel isoforms in T cells
Authors: Serna Julia , Peraza Diego A. , Moreno‐Estar Sara , Saez Juan J. , Gobelli Dino , Simarro Maria , Hivroz Claire , López‐López José R. , Cidad Pilar , de la Fuente Miguel A. , Pérez‐García M. Teresa
Published: March 2023

Voltage‐dependent potassium channel Kv1.3 plays a key role on T‐cell activation; however, lack of reliable antibodies has prevented its accurate detection under endogenous circumstances. To overcome this limitation, we created a Jurkat T‐cell line with endogenous Kv1.3 channel tagged, to determine the expression, location, and changes upon activation of the native Kv1.3 channels. CRISPR‐Cas9 technique was used to insert a Flag‐Myc peptide at the C terminus of the KCNA3 gene. Basal or activated channel expression was studied using western blot analysis and imaging techniques. We identified two isoforms of Kv1.3 other than the canonical channel (54 KDa) differing on their N terminus: a longer isoform (70 KDa) and a truncated isoform (43 KDa). All three isoforms were upregulated after T‐cell activation. We focused on the functional characterization of the truncated isoform (short form, SF), because it has not been previously described and could be present in the available Kv1.3−/− mice models. Overexpression of SF in HEK cells elicited small amplitude Kv1.3‐like currents, which, contrary to canonical Kv1.3, did not induce HEK proliferation. To explore the role of endogenous SF isoform in a native system, we generated both a knockout Jurkat clone and a clone expressing only the SF isoform. Although the canonical isoform (long form) localizes mainly at the plasma membrane, SF remains intracellular, accumulating perinuclearly. Accordingly, SF Jurkat cells did not show Kv1.3 currents and exhibited depolarized resting membrane potential (VM), decreased Ca2+ influx, and a reduction in the [Ca2+]i increase upon stimulation. Functional characterization of these Kv1.3 channel isoforms showed their differential contribution to signaling pathways involved in formation of the immunological synapse. We conclude that alternative translation initiation generates at least three endogenous Kv1.3 channel isoforms in T cells that exhibit different functional roles. For some of these functions, Kv1.3 proteins do not need to form functional plasma membrane channels.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Monalizumab in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Hwang Michael , Fan Chunling , Yue Mun Sang , Zhou Diansong , Paturel Carine , Andre Pascale , Cheng Lin‐Yang , Mitchell Patrick , Kourtesis Panagiotis , Ruscica Dario , Das Mayukh , Morsli Nassim , Ren Song , Gibbs Megan , Phipps Alex , Song Xuyang
Published: March 2023

Monalizumab is a novel, first‐in‐class humanized immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody immune checkpoint inhibitor that targets the inhibitory CD94/NKG2A receptors. The objectives of this analysis were to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model of monalizumab, evaluate the impact of clinically relevant covariates on monalizumab PK, and provide dose justification for clinical trials. We developed a monalizumab population PK model to characterize the PK properties of monalizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors or head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Data from clinical studies D419NC00001 (NCT02671435) and IPH2201‐203 (NCT02643550) were pooled for the analysis, resulting in a data set of 3066 PK samples derived from 507 subjects. The PK of monalizumab were reasonably described by a 2‐compartment model with first‐order elimination. Monalizumab generally exhibited linear PK over a dose range of 22.5‐750 mg or 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks. The estimate of clearance was ≈0.255 L/day, and apparent volume of distribution was 6.36 L for a typical individual, consistent with previous findings for endogenous immunoglobulin Gs and other therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. Baseline albumin and body weight were identified as significant covariates of clearance; body weight, sex, and smoking status had a significant impact on volume of distribution; and none of these covariates had impact on peripheral volume of distribution. Although these covariates were identified as statistically significant, they are considered to be not clinically meaningful, as changes in monalizumab exposure were <30%. Therefore, no dose adjustments of monalizumab based on patient or disease characteristics are recommended.
Transcriptome mapping of renal clear cell carcinoma revealed by machine learning algorithm based on enhanced computed tomography images
Authors: Yang Yu , Huang Hang , Liang Haote
Published: March 2023

Background

A growing number of studies have shown that inflammation‐related components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) affect the clinical outcomes of cancer patients, and advances in radiomics may help predict survival and prognosis.

Methods

We performed a systematic analysis of inflammation‐related genes (IRGs) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus and mapped their interaction network to assess the specific relationship between these differentially expressed inflammation‐related genes (DEIRGs) and inflammation. The association between DEIRGs and prognosis was discussed and further validated using consensus cluster analysis. Next, we constructed IRGs‐related risk score from the collected information and validated the prognostic value of the model using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic analysis. Computed tomographic images corresponding to the TCGA‐ccRCC cohort were obtained from the Cancer Imaging Archive database for radiomics signature extraction.

Results

We screened for prognostic IRGs and found that they were positively correlated with inflammatory cells in the tumor microenvironment associated with tumor progression and metastasis, such as activated CD8+ cells, myeloid‐derived suppressor cells and neutrophils. The impact of IRGs on the prognosis of ccRCC patients was also verified. Using these differentially expressed genes, we successfully constructed a risk signature and validated its good prognosis assessment for patients. Furthermore, radiomics‐based prognostic models performed better than those using risk signatures or clinical characteristics.

Conclusions

IRG‐related risk scores play an important role in assessing the prognosis and improving the management of patients with ccRCC. Through this feature, the infiltration of immune cells in the TME can be predicted. Furthermore, non‐invasive radiomics signatures showed satisfactory performance in predicting ccRCC prognosis.
MAML1‐induced HPV E6 oncoprotein stability is required for cellular proliferation and migration of cervical tumor‐derived cells
Authors: Skelin Josipa , Đukić Anamaria , Filić Vedrana , Hufbauer Martin , Akgül Baki , Thomas Miranda , Banks Lawrence , Tomaić Vjekoslav
Published: March 2023

While a small proportion of high‐risk (HR) alpha (α) human papillomaviruses (HPVs) is associated with numerous human malignancies, of which cervical cancer is the most prevalent, beta (β) HPVs predominantly act as co‐factors in skin carcinogenesis. A characteristic feature of both α‐ and β‐E6 oncoproteins is the presence of the LXXLL binding motif, which α‐E6s utilize to form a complex with E6AP and which enables β‐E6s to interact with MAML1. Here we show that multiple α‐E6 oncoproteins bind to MAML1 via the LXXLL binding motif and that this results in increased protein stability. Moreover, β‐E6 oncoprotein stability is also dependent on the interaction with MAML1. Additionally, in the absence of MAML1, endogenous HPV‐8 E6 and HPV‐18 E6 are rapidly degraded at the proteasome. Ablation of both E6AP and MAML1 leads to an even more profound downregulation of α‐E6 protein expression, whereas this is not observed with β‐E6. This highly suggests that there is one cellular pool for most of β‐E6 that interacts solely with MAML1, whereas there are two cellular pools of HR α‐E6, one forming a complex with MAML1 and the other interacting with E6AP. Furthermore, MAML1 induces HPV‐8 E6 shuttling from the nucleus to the cytosolic fraction, while MAML1 interaction with HR E6 induces a drastic nuclear and membrane upregulation of E6. Interestingly, the HR α‐E6/MAML1 complex does not affect targeting of some of the known HR E6 cellular substrates such as p53 and DLG1. However, MAML1 and E6AP joint co‐expression with HR α‐E6 leads to a significant increase in cellular proliferation, whereas silencing MAML1 decreases wound closure in HeLa cells. These results demonstrate that HR α‐E6 interaction with MAML1 results in a stable form of E6, which likely modulates MAML1's normal cellular activities, one consequence of which being an increased proliferative capacity of HPV‐transformed cancer cells. Thus, this study shows a novel function of the α‐E6 oncoprotein and how it's activity might affect HPV‐induced pathogenesis.
Urinary isoxanthopterin as a novel predictor following catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Koi Takahisa , Kataoka Naoya , Uchida Keisuke , Imamura Teruhiko , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: March 2023

Background

Oxidative stress is associated with atrial fibrillation recurrence following catheter ablation. Urinary isoxanthopterin (U‐IXP) is one of the noninvasive markers which reflect the reactive oxygen species; however, its ability to predict atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATAs) occurrence following catheter ablation remains uncertain.

Methods

Among the patients who received scheduled catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation, baseline U‐IXP levels were measured just before the procedure. The prognostic impact of baseline U‐IXP upon postprocedural ATAs occurrence was investigated.

Results

Among 107 patients (71 years old, 68% men), baseline U‐IXP level was 0.33 nmol/gCr on the median. During a mean of 603 days of follow‐up, 32 patients had ATAs. Baseline higher U‐IXP was independently associated with the occurrence of ATAs following catheter ablation with a hazard ratio of 4.69 (95% confidence interval: 1.82–12.37, p  = .001) adjusted for the left atrial diameter, a persistent type, and hypertension which were potential confounders, with a cutoff of 0.46 nmol/gCr, which stratified cumulative incidence of ATAs occurrence ( p  < .001).

Conclusion

U‐IXP can be used as the noninvasive predictive biomarker for ATAs following catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.
Assessing phosphorus efficiency and tolerance in maize genotypes with contrasting root systems at the early growth stage using the semi‐hydroponic phenotyping system
Authors: Liang Liyan , An Tingting , Liu Shuo , Gao Yamin , Yu Min , Xu Bingcheng , Zhang Suiqi , Deng Xiping , Bolan Nanthi , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Chen Yinglong
Published: March 2023

Background

Development of an evaluation tool to determine genotypic variation in phosphorus (P) utilization efficiency is essential to ensure crop productivity and farmers’ income under low P environments.

Aims

This study aimed to develop an evaluation tool to determine genotypic variation in low‐P tolerance and P use efficiency under low P environments.

Methods

Root response and P efficiency traits in 20 maize genotypes with contrasting root systems were assessed 32 days after transplanting into the semi‐hydroponic root phenotyping system under low P (10 µM) or optimal P (200 µM) supply.

Results

Compared to optimal P, low P supply increased root‐to‐shoot biomass ratio by 48.7% (shoot dry weight decreased by 20.0% and root dry weight increased by 20.6%). Low P supply increased total root length by 17.8% but decreased primary root depth, with no significant change in lateral root number across all genotypes. Low P stress enhanced P utilization efficiency. Based on genotypic variation and correlations among the 17 measured plant traits in response to low P stress, nine traits were converted to low‐P tolerance coefficients (LPTC), compressed by principal component analysis. The three principal component scores were extracted for hierarchical cluster analysis and classified the 20 genotypes into three groups with different P efficiency, including two P‐efficient genotypes and nine P‐inefficient genotypes.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated genotypic variation in response to low P stress. The P‐efficient genotypes with higher LPTC values better adapted to low P environments by adjusting root architecture and re‐distributing P and biomass in plant organs. The systematic cluster analysis using selected traits and their LPTC values can be used as an evaluation tool in assessing P efficiency among the genotypes.
Pupil size estimation model based on luminance and chromaticity spatial distribution
Authors: Huang Chenyu , Zhang Yuning , He Nailong , Weng Yishi
Published: March 2023

As an important index in studies on vision and display technology, pupil size controls the amount of the light entering human eye. Eye tracking systems are normally used to measure the pupil size while a pupil size estimation model can be applied when actual measurement is not available. The weighting functions of the reported pupil size estimation models show radial symmetry, which contradicted the radial asymmetric distribution of photoreceptors on the retina. Chromaticity spatial distribution has not been taken into consideration either. In this paper, the perceptual experiments are carried out with patterned and colored stimuli to evaluate the spatial and color varying effect of luminance to the pupil. A revised corneal flux density is proposed, which shows a high correlation with pupil diameters. Based on this, a pupil size estimation model is proposed. Pupil diameters can be calculated after inputting luminance and chromaticity spatial distribution matrixes. After verification, this model can be applied to indoor scenes with different lighting temperatures within the general illumination range. This model should be useful in scientific and practical applications where pupil diameter matters.
Severe drug eruption after antibiotic administration in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: A monocentric case series
Authors: Nishizawa Aya , Takeda Koichi , Urasaki Tetsuya , Ono Makiko , Mochizuki Toshiaki , Shiga Taro , Fujiwara Motohiro , Yuasa Takeshi , Murakami Atsushi , Koike Ryo , Yunokawa Mayu , Kanao Hiroyuki , Shimozaki Keitaro , Takahari Daisuke , Kogawa Takahiro , Takahashi Shunji , Kitano Shigehisa
Published: March 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy is often associated with cutaneous immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). Drug eruptions stemming from concomitantly or consecutively administered medications are also frequent and tend to be severe. We herein present three cases of severe drug eruption in patients receiving antibiotics during ICI therapy in which hypotensive shock occurring during antibiotic administration was followed by generalized erythema and prolonged organ damage. Three patients received tazobactam/piperacillin (TAZ/PIPC) for an infection during ICI treatment. A high fever developed in all the patients after a switch was made to other antibiotics (Figures 2–4). Since no skin rash was observed at fever onset, a flare‐up of the infection was suspected, and TAZ/PIPC administration was resumed. Thereafter, the patients suddenly experienced hypotensive shock and respiratory failure requiring ICU management for generalized erythema and organ damage. Since anaphylaxis caused by TAZ/PIPC is rare, the patients’ clinical findings might be a manifestation of synergistic, complementary, immunomodulatory effects of ICI. In patients receiving ICI therapy, a fever occurring during antibiotic administration may indicate the onset of an immune hypersensitivity reaction to the drug. Resumption of antibiotic administration, especially TAZ/PIPC, during such a period may trigger an excessive inflammatory response, leading to an anaphylaxis‐like reaction and organ damage.
Complications associated with costal cartilage harvest in pediatric laryngotracheal reconstruction
Authors: Lava Christian X. , Martin Taylor S. , Leonard James A. , Blumenthal Daniel L. , Scriven‐Weiner Kelly , Chu Eugenia , Harley Earl H.
Published: March 2023

Objective

We aimed to determine the rate of complications associated with autologous costal cartilage graft harvest for pediatric laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR). Secondarily, we sought to identify risk factors associated with the harvest of autologous costal cartilage, as well as evaluate management strategies.

Data Sources

An electronic database search of Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and PubMed was completed for articles pertaining to complications in autologous costal cartilage harvest for pediatric LTR.

Review Methods

This systematic review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. The study characteristics, operative information, and patient demographics were collected. The data concerning postoperative complications, risk factors, and management strategies were collected and analyzed for patterns.

Results

A total of 31 manuscripts representing 745 patients were included for analysis. The reported donor site complications included pneumothorax (n = 13, 1.74%), pleural tear (n = 5, 0.67%), infection (n = 8, 1.07%), and scar‐related problems (n = 2, 0.26%). There were no reported cases of seroma, persistent pain, or chest wall deformity. Only five studies discussed the management of donor site complications, with intervention in 11 (39.28%) patients including chest tube drainage and steroid injection.

Conclusion

There is significant variability in the literature regarding complication rates in autologous costal cartilage harvest for pediatric LTR. The incidence of major postoperative complications is low and supports the use of autologous costal cartilage as graft material for pediatric LTR.

Level of Evidence

NA.
Oxidized Dextran/Chitosan Hydrogel Engineered with Tetrasulfide‐Bridged Silica Nanoparticles for Postsurgical Treatment
Authors: Hu Lele , Song Chunli , Li Hongyi , Gao Yao , Zhang Jing , Gao Ting , Wei Youhua , Xu Zhuoran , Xue Weiming , Huang Saipeng , Wen Huiyun , Li Zigang , Wu Jun
Published: March 2023

Tumor recurrence and wound microbial infection after tumor excision are serious threats to patients. Thus, the strategy to supply a sufficient and sustained release of cancer drugs and simultaneously engineer antibacterial properties and satisfactory mechanical strength is highly desired for tumor postsurgical treatment. Herein, A novel double‐sensitive composite hydrogel embedded with tetrasulfide‐bridged mesoporous silica (4S‐MSNs) is developed. The incorporation of 4S‐MSNs into oxidized dextran/chitosan hydrogel network, not only enhances the mechanical properties of hydrogels, but also can increase the specificity of drug with dual pH/redox sensitivity, thereby allowing more efficient and safer therapy. Besides, 4S‐MSNs hydrogel preserves the favorable physicochemical properties of polysaccharide hydrogel, such as high hydrophilicity, satisfactory antibacterial activity, and excellent biocompatibility. Thus, the prepared 4S‐MSNs hydrogel can be served as an efficient strategy for postsurgical bacterial infection and inhibition of tumor recurrence.
Laccase Immobilization Using Polymeric Supports for Wastewater Treatment: A Critical Review
Authors: Iqhrammullah Muhammad , Fahrina Afrillia , Chiari Williams , Ahmad Khairunnas , Fitriani Fitriani , Suriaini Nanda , Safitri Eka , Puspita Kana
Published: March 2023

Global threat from emerging contaminants to human health has pushed researchers to develop pollutant removal technologies including those based on biocatalytic degradation. Laccase, a multicopper enzyme, is reported for its applicability in treating wastewater and industrial effluent by catalyzing reduction of O2 to H2O in the presence of substrates (phenolic or non‐phenolic compounds). Scientific papers have discussed the ability of this enzyme to breakdown hazardous contaminants ranging from azo dyes, antibiotics, and up to hormones. Nonetheless, the cost production of this enzyme is high, hence the importance of the immobilization into solid supports. Polymers are considered suitable for the immobilization because they are easy for modification and have adjustable characteristics. This review discusses the immobilization of laccase into polymers via various techniques (adsorption, cross‐linking, covalent binding, encapsulation, and entrapment) and its implications on the pollutant removal performance. In addition, bibliometric analysis is performed and summarized the advantages and disadvantages of each immobilization technique.
The more the better? The negative effect of disseminators' donations in online donation
Authors: Zhu Guowei , Lu Jinfeng , Zhou Li , Luo Yingyu
Published: March 2023

Online donation platforms often present information regarding disseminators' donations to stimulate donations, but it is unclear how it affects potential donors' behavior. This paper examines how disseminators' donation amounts impact potential donors' donation likelihood. The findings of six studies show that potential donors are less (vs. more) likely to contribute to unfamiliar initiators when disseminators contribute large (vs. small) amounts. The following psychological response drives the effect: when potential donors observe disseminators contribute more, they infer that disseminators have assumed greater responsibility and thus reduce their perceived responsibility to the unfamiliar initiator. We also confirm the boundary conditions of tie strength and empathy. This effect is significant when donors have low levels of empathy or strong ties with the disseminator. In contrast, this effect is reversed when tie strength is high and attenuated when potential donors have high levels of empathy. Our research enriches the literature concerning the effects of others' donations and online donation and provides managerial guidance to enable the success of online donation projects.
What is it like to be idle versus busy for a service machine?
Authors: Söderlund Magnus
Published: March 2023

Customers have since long received service from various machines, and this development is expected to accelerate when AI‐powered synthetic agents—such as chatbots and embodied service robots—become more common. Existing research on customers' interactions with service machines is typically focused on perceptions of machine attributes when the machine is busy. However, many machines are idle for a considerable time (i.e., they are not used), and little is known about consumer perceptions of machine idleness—despite the fact that idle machine behavior can contribute to the user experience, too. In the present study, it is assumed that (a) idleness and busyness represent differently valenced states in a human‐to‐human context (i.e., idleness is more negatively charged than busyness for most humans). It is also assumed that (b) anthropomorphism can occur in relation to a service machine, and that (c) beliefs about idleness and busyness from a human‐to‐human context can carry over and inform views of machines' minds. Three experiments were conducted to explore these assumptions, and they show that an idle service machine is attributed less positively charged mind states than a busy service machine. The results also show that such attribution activities affect the overall evaluation of the service machine.
Multi‐sided? Operation mode of sharing economy enterprises
Authors: Weng Zhicheng , Luo Pinliang
Published: March 2023

Turning to the theoretical methods of two‐sided markets, we analyze the operation mode selection of the sharing economy. Considering the interactions of the operating enterprise, resource suppliers (basic service providers), value‐added service providers, and consumers, we show that the selection of one‐sided mode, two‐sided mode, or multi‐sided mode depends on enterprise service quality, pricing power and cross‐group externalities of sharing economy service, utility evaluation and access cost of the value‐added service. Further, we give a theoretical explanation of the operation mode evolution in China's online car‐hailing market and put forward two specific multi‐sided platform development paths.
Polygenic Parkinson's Disease Genetic Risk Score as Risk Modifier of Parkinsonism in Gaucher Disease
Authors: Blauwendraat Cornelis , Tayebi Nahid , Woo Elizabeth Geena , Lopez Grisel , Fierro Luca , Toffoli Marco , Limbachiya Naomi , Hughes Derralynn , Pitz Vanessa , Patel Dhairya , Vitale Dan , Koretsky Mathew J. , Hernandez Dena , Real Raquel , Alcalay Roy N. , Nalls Mike A. , Morris Huw R. , Schapira Anthony H.V. , Balwani Manisha , Sidransky Ellen
Published: March 2023

Background

Biallelic pathogenic variants in GBA1 are the cause of Gaucher disease (GD) type 1 (GD1), a lysosomal storage disorder resulting from deficient glucocerebrosidase. Heterozygous GBA1 variants are also a common genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). GD manifests with considerable clinical heterogeneity and is also associated with an increased risk for PD.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the contribution of PD risk variants to risk for PD in patients with GD1.

Methods

We studied 225 patients with GD1, including 199 without PD and 26 with PD. All cases were genotyped, and the genetic data were imputed using common pipelines.

Results

On average, patients with GD1 with PD have a significantly higher PD genetic risk score than those without PD (P = 0.021).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that variants included in the PD genetic risk score were more frequent in patients with GD1 who developed PD, suggesting that common risk variants may affect underlying biological pathways. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Duke public policy report suggests federal law restricting data brokers
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: March 2023

A project that originated from a Duke University undergraduate's honors thesis created a media stir last month over the lack of controls on the sale and use of individuals’ sensitive mental health information. As of late February, around 60 media outlets had cited Joanne Kim's research findings, which were based on her direct contact with 10 data brokers that collect consumers’ personal information and share it with, or sell it to, other entities.
Generalized derivatives and Laplace transform in (k,ψ)‐Hilfer form
Authors: Başcı Yasemin , Mısır Adil , Öğrekçi Süleyman
Published: March 2023

In this work, we discuss the most generalized derivatives and integrals and their features in
‐Hilfer form. Furthermore, we define the new generalized Laplace transform to the generalized derivatives and integrals in
‐Hilfer form. Also, we have obtained the new generalized Laplace transforms of some expressions. These statements obtained cover many previous studies. Finally, we have given an example that will both use some of the results obtained and emphasize the importance of parameters such as
,
,
of the
‐generalized Laplace transform.
Terahertz waveguide multiplexers: A review
Authors: Tan Zhen , Zhang Qin‐Yi , Lei Ya‐Lin , Zhao Yun , Ding Jiang‐Qiao
Published: March 2023

Terahertz (THz) band, which owns abundant and underexplored frequency spectrum, has provided rich scientific and technological opportunities in numerous research fields, such as radio astronomy, atmospheric science and high‐speed communication. As one of the key components in THz systems, the multiplexer cannot only separate/combine different bands, but can also promote the development of THz instruments toward wider band and more multibands. Thanks to the high‐precision computer numerical control milling and micromachining technologies, a lot of THz waveguide multiplexers have been reported in recent years. According to the classification of design configurations, this article offers a brief overview on the developed THz multiplexers. In addition, the performance and system applications of different waveguide‐typed multiplexers are discussed. Therefore, this review will provide a valuable reference for the further development of THz waveguide multiplexers with high performance.
A 24.25–30 GHz radio frequency up‐down converter with harmonic distortions rejection for 5G millimeter wave radio channel emulator applications
Authors: Zheng Sidou , Hou Debin , Wang Chen , Zhou Peigen , Chen Jixin , Hong Wei
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a 24.25–30 GHz fully integrated radio frequency (RF) up‐down converter with harmonic distortions rejection for 5G millimeter wave radio channel emulator applications is proposed and implemented in a 0.1‐μm GaAs pseudomorphic high‐electron‐mobility transistor technology. The RF up‐down converter integrates a frequency doubling amplifier chain local oscillator, a harmonic suppression mixer, and three frequency selective filters for unwanted harmonics suppression. To prevent the unwanted harmonics from leaking into the RF band, a higher sideband and high‐intermediate frequency mixer core with harmonic suppression filters is proposed. With this method, the unwanted harmonics are well suppressed. To effectively reduce the chip area, a miniaturized Marchand Balun based on a folded structure is proposed. The measured results demonstrate good in‐band spectral purity with more than 70 dB suppression of unwanted harmonics. Benefit from the high‐side injection mixing scheme and harmonics suppression method, the presented up‐down converter achieves a dynamic power range of −100 to −5 dBm with a conversion loss of 10 dB. The implemented RF up‐down converter occupies only 0.9 × 2.7 mm2in size, with a power consumption of 400 mW under 4‐V supply.
Revisiting aliasing noise to build more robust sparsity in nonuniform sampling 2D‐NMR
Authors: Cullen Lucille E. , Marchiori Alan , Rovnyak David
Published: March 2023

A continuing priority is to better understand and resolve the barriers to using nonuniform sampling (NUS) in challenging small molecule 2D NMR with subsampling of the Nyquist grid (a.k.a. coverage) below 50%. Possible causes for artifacts, often termed sampling noise, in 1D‐NUS of 2D‐NMR are revisited here, where weak aliasing artifacts are a growing concern as NUS becomes sparser. As NUS schedules become sparser, repeat sequences are shown to occur in the dense sampling regions early in the sampling schedule, causing aliasing artifacts in resulting spectra. An intuitive screening approach that detects patterns in sampling schedules based on a convolutional filter was implemented. Sampling schedules that have low proportions of repeat sequences show significantly reduced artifacts. Another route to remediate early repeat sequences is a short period of uniform sampling at the beginning of the schedule, which also leads to a significant suppression of unwanted sampling noise. Combining the repeat sequence filter with a survey of HSQC and LR‐HSQMBC experiments, it is shown that very short initial uniform regions of about 2%–4% of the sampling space can ameliorate repeat sequences in sparser NUS and lead to robust spectral reconstructions by iterative soft thresholding (IST), even when the point spread function is unchanged. Using the principles developed here, a suite of ‘one‐click’ schedules was developed for broader use.
Synthese im Blickpunkt: Bioisosteres of meta‐substituted benzenes
Authors: Bergamaschi Enrico , Teskey Christopher
Published: March 2023

Swapping aromatic rings with small‐ring hydrocarbon cages is a promising method for synthesising more effective drugs. Until recently, however, this tactic was restricted to the replacement of para‐substituted phenyl groups. Now, two new methods describe reliable syntheses of a motif for exchanging meta‐substituted benzene rings, ushering a new cage‐motif into the mainstream and thus opening up opportunities for medicinal chemists.
Die Wissenschaft feiern
Authors: Herr Jasmin
Published: March 2023

Von März bis Dezember waren Vertreterinnen und Vertreter der GDCh im In‐ und Ausland auf verschiedenen Veranstaltungen unterwegs, um die ausgezeichneten Personen stolz zu machen. Glückliche Gesichter waren garantiert.
Funktionale Sicherheit: Gut in Schuss
Authors: Landgraf Evelyn
Published: March 2023

Wenn eine 25 Jahre alte Verdampferanlage auf den neuesten Stand der Technik umzubauen ist, kommt es nicht nur darauf an, dass die Technik funktioniert, sondern auch darauf, dass sie sicher für Mensch und Umwelt läuft und den aktuellen Vorschriften entspricht.
Studentische Hilfloskräfte
Authors: Blicker Luca
Published: March 2023

Hochschulen sorgen nicht dafür, dass studentische Beschäftigte ihre Rechte wahrnehmen.
Mit Titel, ohne Plan
Authors: Blicker Luca
Published: March 2023

Doktorand:innen und Studierende in Naturwissenschaft und Technik sind unsicher, was ihre Ausbildung auf dem Arbeitsmarkt wert ist.
Biological Investigation of the Endangered Northern Madtom in the North Channel St. Clair River
Authors: Utrup Brad E. , Hessenauer Jan-Michael , Briggs Andrew S. , Scribner Kim T. , Kanefsky Jeannette , Wills Todd C.
Published: March 2023

Aquatic organisms and the habitats they live in are declining globally, yet managers often lack even basic biological information for individual imperiled species. This makes assessment of the current status, management needs, and recovery targets for these species challenging. One such organism is the Northern Madtom Noturus stigmosus, a small, bottom-dwelling catfish of the family Ictaluridae. Northern Madtom are listed as endangered in the state of Michigan and the province of Ontario, with only a handful of isolated populations known in each region. To address life history uncertainties and to provide fisheries managers with baseline information to inform decision making, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources annually sampled Northern Madtom in the St. Clair River using minnow traps and amassed the largest known data set for this species. We handled 871 individuals from 2010 to 2022, with yearly catch rates ranging from 0.17 to 1.33 individuals/trap. Age estimates derived from otoliths and dorsal spines of 17 individuals showed no clear pattern of bias, indicating that nonlethally collected dorsal spines provide a suitable age estimation method. We developed an age–length key to assign ages to all individuals in our data set, calculated growth parameters, and determined that annual mortality rates across all ages ranged from 46% to 69%. Diet analysis revealed that caddisfly (order Trichoptera) larvae were the dominant prey item and fecundity averaged 178 eggs/female. We compared microsatellite allele frequencies and mitochondrial DNA haplotypes among samples collected in the St. Clair River and the Detroit River. Significant evidence of genetic structure was present, indicating limited gene flow and suggesting that separate management of these two populations may be warranted. Collectively, these data provide context for managers interested in the development of biological reference points and planning for the conservation and management of this species.
Factors affecting self‐care among community‐dwelling hypertensive older adults: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jung Soo Youn , Moon Kyoung Ja
Published: March 2023

Aim

To examine self‐care behaviours among older adults with hypertension and identify related factors, including cognitive function, religious belief and comorbidities.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Self‐care behaviours included diet and health. Participants completed a survey including items on demographics, disease‐related characteristics and self‐care behaviours and underwent cognitive function tests. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and multiple regression analysis was performed to analyse the factors affecting self‐care.

Results

Regarding diet behaviour, older religious adults and those with higher scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment‐Korean version had higher levels of self‐care scores according to the HBP‐SC. Regarding health behaviour, older adults with no comorbidities had higher levels of self‐care scores according to the HBP‐SC.

Conclusion

Factors affecting self‐care diet behaviour include religion and Montreal Cognitive Assessment‐Korean version scores and those affecting health behaviour include comorbidities among older adults with hypertension. Therefore, to improve their self‐care behaviours, their religious practices and comorbidities should be considered, cognitive function should be assessed, and tailored education should be provided.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This study investigated factors affecting self‐care behaviours of hypertensive older adults in South Korea. The self‐care was divided into diet and health behaviours. The factors influencing diet behaviour were religion and Montreal Cognitive Assessment‐Korean version scores, and the factor influencing health behaviour was comorbidities. We also investigated self‐care behaviour patterns. Older adults with hypertension were good at controlling alcohol consumption and did not forget to fill prescriptions. However, they were poor at reading nutrition labels to check on sodium content and checking blood pressure at home. Therefore, nurses could develop interventions considering these influencing factors and behavioural patterns to improve self‐care behaviours and enhance health for older adults with hypertension.

Impact

Hypertension in older adults affects their health conditions and performance of self‐care behaviours. Nurses could assess self‐care based on diet and health behaviours. Additionally, further developing tailored programmes is recommended considering factors like religious belief, cognitive function and comorbidities.

Reporting Method

This study followed the STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study used a convenience sample of 105 participants aged ≥ 65 years recruited from a Korean hospital.
Calculating the optimal number of nurses based on nursing intensity by patient classification groups in general units in South Korea: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ko Yukyung , Park Bohyun
Published: March 2023

Aim

This study aimed to calculate the total daily nursing workload and the optimal number of nurses per general unit based on the nursing intensity.

Design

This study was conducted using a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Three units at one general hospital were investigated. Patient classification according to nursing needs was performed for over 10 days in each unit in September 2018. The direct and non‐direct nursing time and nursing intensity scores were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

For the internal medicine unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 1.0, 1.5, 2.2 and 2.9 h for Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. For the surgical unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 0.9, 1.4, 2.1 and 2.6 h for Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. 5 and 9 additional nurses were needed in the internal medicine and surgical nursing units.

Patient Contribution

This study confirmed that the optimal number of nurses was not achieved and that the nursing intensity was very high. Long‐term efforts, such as improving the nursing environment, should be made to ensure an optimal number of nurses in various nursing units.
Impact of the Standardized Interview Offer Date Initiatives: A Survey of Otolaryngology Applicants and Programs
Authors: Standiford Taylor C. , Thorne Marc C. , Chang C.W. David , Malekzadeh Sonya , Pletcher Steven D.
Published: March 2023

Objective

To investigate residency applicant and program compliance with and attitudes toward a newly implemented standardized interview offer date program.

Study design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

US Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery training programs.

Methods

An electronic survey was distributed to applicants during match week in March 2022, and to program directors and program managers shortly after. The surveys included questions assessing program compliance with the standardized interview offer date as well as both applicant and program attitudes toward this newly implemented initiative.

Results

This study achieved a 47% (263/559) response rate from applicants and 57% (68/120) from programs. Both applicants and program directors reported high program compliance with this initiative. Ninety‐six percent of program directors reported complying with releasing interview offers on 1 standardized day. Applicants endorsed a reduction in their anxiety surrounding the residency application process as well as an increased ability to engage in the fourth year of medical school as benefits of the initiative. Providing clarity surrounding the applicant's final application status and further standardization of the interview scheduling process were identified as areas for improvement.

Conclusion

Standardization of residency interview offer and acceptance practices is both feasible and impactful. Providing applicants with a final applicant status and further efforts to improve the interview scheduling process may continue to bolster this initiative in future years.
Advanced polymer processing technologies for micro‐ and nanostructured surfaces: A review
Authors: Kodihalli Shivaprakash Nischay , Banerjee Pratip Sankar , Banerjee Shib Shankar , Barry Carol , Mead Joey
Published: March 2023

Functional surfaces with attractive properties, such as superhydrophobicity and omniphobicity often rely on the synergy between intrinsic material properties and dual scale micro‐ and nano‐hierarchical structures for achieving desired wettability. Historically, engineered liquid repellent surfaces have attracted a great deal of interest from academia and industry due to their broad application prospects. Hence, for several years, there have been significant scientific efforts by researchers exploring state of the art manufacturing technologies that are efficient and yet cost effective to produce functional liquid repellent surfaces at an industrial scale. This technical review summarizes the various advanced and state of the art polymer processing technologies employed to fabricate the micro‐ and nanostructured polymer surfaces, with a special focus given to superhydrophobic and omniphobic applications. Here, we discuss the merits and limitations of each fabrication methods available for micro‐ and nanostructuring of polymer‐based surfaces. In addition, an attempt has been made to provide insight into the relationship between geometry of micro/nanostructures (size and shape) and intrinsic wettability on liquid repellency. A special section has been devoted to feature and document all commercialization efforts, including various commercially available products that were developed in the past decade. Finally, outlook and the development trend in the polymer micro‐ and nanostructured surfaces are highlighted to lead future research.
Accumulation of azafrin in the root apoplast of the medicinal plant Escobedia grandiflora might play a role in parasitism
Authors: Cardona‐Medina Edison , Santos Marisa , Nodari Rubens , Hornero‐Méndez Dámaso , Peris Arnau , Wong Darren C. J. , Matus José Tomás , Rodríguez‐Concepción Manuel
Published: March 2023

Societal Impact Statement

Escobedia grandiflora is a medicinal hemiparasite that occurs naturally in non‐forested communities in Central and South America. Parasitic plants accumulate high levels of a water‐soluble orange pigment in roots that was once among the most important food dyes in the Andean region. We conclusively address the chemical identification of this pigment and provide molecular and cellular insights on its biosynthesis and possible function.

The herbaceous hemiparasite Escobedia grandiflora (Orobanchaceae) is used in traditional medicine in the Andean region. Escobedia roots accumulate high levels of an orange pigment with a significant relevance as a cooking dye that exhibits antioxidant and cardioprotective properties. Here, we aimed to confirm the chemical identity of the pigment and investigate its biosynthesis and function in Escobedia roots.

We combined metabolic and cytological analyses with de novo transcriptome assembly, gene expression studies, and phylogenetic analyses.

The pigment was conclusively shown to be azafrin, an apocarotenoid likely derived from the cleavage of β‐carotene. RNA‐seq supported by multispecies comparative transcriptome analysis and qRT‐PCR allowed to propose candidate genes for the production of azafrin in Escobedia roots. We also showed that azafrin is delivered to the root apoplast and that it accumulates in the area where the Escobedia haustorium contacts the host's root.

Our data suggest that azafrin production might rely on a carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase (CCD) different from CCD7 and that this apocarotenoid might function in the parasitism process. Together, our work represents an unprecedented step forward in our understanding of the Escobedia parasitization system.
Congenital lobar emphysema: A rare cause of respiratory failure in neonates
Authors: Rose Paul , Rana Saim , Abbey Cassie , Deskins Seth , Al‐Qatarneh Saif
Published: March 2023

Congenital lobar overinflation, also known as congenital lobar emphysema (CLE), is an uncommon (1/20,000–30,000 live births) abnormality characterized by hyperinflation of one or more pulmonary lobes, usually with contralateral displacement of the mediastinum. While the etiology of most cases of CLE is poorly understood and labeled idiopathic, some cases are thought to be due to an intrinsic or extrinsic bronchial wall abnormality causing a ball valve mechanism with resultant hyperinflation of the affected lobe. CLE tends to have a predilection for males presenting insidiously in the first 6 months of life and have respiratory distress and progressive failure, with 50% of cases being asymptomatic at birth. Acquired forms of lobar emphysema are similar but are secondary to prolonged exposure to oxygen and positive pressure ventilation in premature infants. Clinical presentation is variable, ranging from wheezing, increased respiratory effort, cyanosis, feeding difficulties, and reflux or respiratory failure. Chest radiography (CXR) is the initial imaging obtained for any neonate with respiratory distress, which can aid in diagnosis showing overinflation, while computerized tomography (CT) remains the gold standard for confirmatory diagnosis. Treatment is variable and based on clinical severity. Some cases can be managed conservatively, while more severe cases require surgical intervention with lobectomy. Here, we present a case of a neonate in respiratory distress soon after birth, had initial improvement with supportive care, and was found to be secondary to CLE.