bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facile Synthesis of AgFeO2‐Decorated CaCO3 with Enhanced Catalytic Activity in Activation of Peroxymonosulfate for Efficient Degradation of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Guo Sheng , Li Cong , You Liming , Yang Wei , Li Jun , Zhou Kun
Published: March 2021

The development of green and sustainable technologies for wastewater treatment is highly desirable but remains challenging. Herein, a self‐assembly strategy to stabilize AgFeO2 on the surface of CaCO3 (AgFeO2@CaCO3) is demonstrated. This structure is discovered to significantly prohibit the agglomeration of AgFeO2 nanoparticles and strengthen the interaction between AgFeO2 and CaCO3. When utilized in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), AgFeO2@CaCO3 exhibits excellent catalytic performance in activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade multiple organic pollutants. For example, complete Rhodamine B (RhB) decomposition can be achieved by AgFeO2@CaCO3 in the presence of PMS at a degradation rate of 0.312 min−1, which is 44.6 times that of bare AgFeO2. In addition, AgFeO2@CaCO3 demonstrates excellent stability, recyclability, general applicability, and strong resistance to the solution pH. 1O2 and O2·− are the predominant reactive oxygen species in RhB degradation. The rapid RhB degradation can be attributed to the mesoporous structure and high specific surface area of AgFeO2@CaCO3, the cycling of Fe(III)/Fe(II) and Ag(I)/Ag(0), and the presence of hydroxyl groups that facilities PMS activation, which is validated by density functional theory calculations. This study provides a feasible and scalable strategy to synthesize green and recyclable heterogeneous catalysts for wastewater remediation via PMS‐based AOPs.
Novel Aza‐Michael Addition‐Asymmetric Protonation to α,β‐Unsaturated Carboxylic Acids with Chiral Thiourea‐Boronic Acid Hybrid Catalysts
Authors: Murakami Hiroki , Yamada Ayano , Michigami Kenichi , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: March 2021

Novel aza‐michael addition‐asymmetric protonation to unsaturated carboxylic acids with chiral thiourea‐boronic acid hybrid catalysts. #asymmetric protonationIn this study, an efficient method has been developed for controlling carbonyl α‐chirality with functionalizing β‐position by the conjugate addition‐asymmetric protonation (CAAP) of α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acids using chiral thiourea‐amino boronic acid hybrid catalysts. In addition, the method is applied to the asymmetric synthesis of biologically active compounds.
Novel Leea grandifolia leaves mediated synthesis of ZnO nanorods for photocatalytic and anticancer applications
Authors: Ali Saheb , Sudha Kattakgoundar Govindaraj , Karunakaran Gopalu , Kowsalya Mariyappan , Kolesnikov Evgeny , Gorshenkov Mikhail V. , Rajeshkumar Mohan Prasanna
Published: March 2021

The main goal of this study was to use a green‐mediated approach for obtaining ZnO nanorods (NRs) using the Leea grandifolia leaf extract. The obtained ZnO NRs were studied using standard methods such as X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the results revealed a smaller particle size with a high surface area. The scanning electron microscopy and TEM results showed that the obtained particles were having rod‐like morphology with size ranging from ~20 to ~200 nm. The results of the antioxidant and photocatalytic studies showed excellent photodegradation and free radical scavenging. The results of the in vitro toxicological study revealed that the obtained particles were nontoxic to organisms. The cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessments concluded that the NR‐treated MCF‐7 had gone through necrosis and apoptosis. The ZnO NRs revealed excellent antibacterial activity towards various pathogens. It was clear that the green‐mediated method could be considered as a better one for the synthesis of ZnO NRs as it imparts excellent anticancer, antibacterial, and photocatalytic properties.
A biographical account of John Paul Richard Thomas, the man who leaves no stone unturned
Authors: Rodríguez‐Robles Javier A. , Leal Manuel , Daza Juan D. , Herrera‐Martínez Alexandra , Ospina Oscar E.
Published: March 2021

This biographical account summarizes the professional career and scientific contributions of John Paul Richard Thomas, a contemporary leading figure in the systematics of West Indian amphibians and non‐avian reptiles, especially of blind snakes of the families Typhlopidae and Leptotyphlopidae. Since his first expedition to the West Indies in 1957, Richard's vast field experience (including three trips to Peru between 1968 and 1974), impressive collecting skills, and remarkable ability to detect phenotypic variation among natural populations have resulted in the description of more than 70 species of snakes (24 typhlopids, 4 leptotyphlopids), lizards, and frogs in 16 genera and 11 taxonomic families. Richard joined the faculty of the Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, in 1976 and ever since his efforts significantly advanced organismal biology research at the institution. Although primarily a systematist, his desire to understand multiple aspects of an organism's biology and contagious passion for becoming intimately familiar with animals in their natural environments provided his students the opportunity to conduct research in fields such as behavioral and evolutionary ecology. Richard's mentoring fostered the scientific interests of his graduate students, who were exposed first‐hand to every aspect of research, an invaluable experience that served as a springboard for the development of their professional careers inside and outside academia. This Commentary is a fitting tribute to an influential, unassuming scientist whose passion for turning over rocks has led to the discovery of many interesting species.
Age differences in broader autism phenotype traits from young adulthood to older adulthood
Authors: Chopik William J. , Oh Jeewon , Nuttall Amy K. , Thakkar Katharine N. , Ingersoll Brooke
Published: March 2021

Much of past research has been dedicated to refining the operationalization and correlates of the broader autism phenotype (BAP) and less on how the BAP differs by socio‐demographic characteristics, like age—particularly after midlife. This gap is important because other nonclinical trait‐like characteristics (e.g., personality) have shown considerable age differences, leading to work assessing the malleability of psychological characteristics and improving outcomes for individuals and their significant others. In the current study, we examined cross‐sectional age differences in the BAP in a large sample of adults ranging in age from 18 to 85. We recruited a sample of 2966 adults ranging in age from 18 to 85 (Mage= 36.53,SD= 12.61; 58.9% Female; 1.1% with an ASD diagnosis) recruited from an online survey service. We found that total BAP scores were higher in younger adults and lower among older adults. These differences were particularly true for pragmatic language difficulties, with this component of the BAP showing the most dramatic age differences. Aloofness showed similar negative associations with age, albeit much smaller. Rigidity was not significantly associated with age. The results are consistent with other research showing an abatement of symptoms among individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) across early life and theories predicting changes in other psychological characteristics (e.g., personality). The results are discussed in the context of the malleability of ASD and BAP traits across life, the clinical implications of these changes, and the origins and consequences for lifespan differences in BAP.

Lay Summary

Little is known about how subclinical autistic‐like traits among middle‐aged and older adults compare to younger adults. We found that these subclinical traits were highest in young adults and lowest in older adults. Knowing how these traits differ by age can provide researchers and clinicians with a sense of how much these traits might change across life, if the traits might be sensitive to interventions, and when in development it might be best to intervene.
Interoception and the origin of feelings: A new synthesis
Authors: Carvalho Gil B. , Damasio Antonio
Published: March 2021

Feelings are conscious mental events that represent body states as they undergo homeostatic regulation. Feelings depend on the interoceptive nervous system (INS), a collection of peripheral and central pathways, nuclei and cortical regions which continuously sense chemical and anatomical changes in the organism. How such humoral and neural signals come to generate conscious mental states has been a major scientific question. The answer proposed here invokes (1) several distinctive and poorly known physiological features of the INS; and (2) a unique interaction between the body (the ‘object’ of interoception) and the central nervous system (which generates the 'subject' of interoception). The atypical traits of the INS and the direct interactions between neural and non‐neural physiological compartments of the organism, neither of which is present in exteroceptive systems, plausibly explain the qualitative and subjective aspects of feelings, thus accounting for their conscious nature.
Screening and identification of a novel FHL2 mutation by whole exome sequencing in twins with familial Waldenström macroglobulinemia
Authors: Wan Yike , Cheng Yuexin , Liu Yabin , Shen Lijing , Hou Jian
Published: March 2021

Background

Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare chronic B‐cell lymphoma. Familial clustering of WM has been observed over the years. However, little is known about the contribution of inherited genetic variants to familial WM cases.

Methods

The authors performed whole exome sequencing (WES) of germline DNA samples from twins, one diagnosed with WM and the other diagnosed with immunoglobulin M monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, and their healthy siblings. Bioinformatics analysis of public biological databases was used to identify the most relevant familial WM candidate from WES. Transcript expression and protein levels of the familial WM candidate were evaluated in the WM patient and 2 unaffected members of the kindred.

Results

Among the 10 shared candidate mutations in the twins, the authors identified a novel heterozygous germline mutation in four and a half LIM domains protein 2 (FHL2; c.G226A, p.V76M) as a familial WM–associated mutation. FHL2 appeared to be connected with reported signaling pathways and disease‐driving genes such as IL6 and HCK in WM. In addition, the authors found reduced FHL2 messenger RNA and protein expression in peripheral blood samples from the patient with WM in comparison with the healthy siblings.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings indicate that an FHL2g226a mutation may play an important role in familial WM, and they provide new screening possibilities for familial cases.

Lay Summary

Familial clustering in Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) has been observed over the years.

The authors performed whole exome sequencing of germline DNA samples from twins, one diagnosed with WM and the other diagnosed with immunoglobulin M monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, and their healthy siblings.

Among the 10 shared candidate mutations in the twins, a novel heterozygous germline mutation in four and a half LIM domains protein 2 (FHL2; c.G226A, p.V76M) was identified as the most relevant familial WM candidate through bioinformatics analysis of a public database.

Also, messenger RNA and protein expression of FHL2 was significantly lower in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the WM patient in comparison with the healthy siblings, and this suggested that the function of FHL2 was impaired when mutated.
Increasing the evidence for surveillance of metastatic renal cancer
Authors: Bex Axel
Published: March 2021

Patients with low‐volume metastatic renal cell carcinoma, good performance, and few risk factors can be managed with a period of active surveillance. This period can vary between months and years.
Application of binary programming theory to product color planning with multiple constraints
Authors: Wang Yong , Song Fanghao , Liu Yan , Li Yaying
Published: March 2021

Companies generally set a standard color for product color design to enhance the corporate brand image. When a given color and the planned combination of given areas contain multiple constraints, the exhaustive process that has traditionally been used to obtain the optimal color scheme is often time consuming. Therefore, this study proposes the use of binary programming theory to solve the problem of product color planning with multiple constraints. In this research, binary programming theory is first used to determine the variables of the product color matching design. Thereafter, multiple constraints are established based on various color requirements from the product color matching design, following which the color matching design goal is determined according to the aesthetic experience of the designer on the color matching design. Finally, the constrained formula is converted into a language that can be recognized by the Matlab software and input into the Optimization Tool application to calculate the final color planning scheme. The color design of an intelligent assembly product in the rail transit field is used as an example to demonstrate the operation process of the proposed solution, and the calculation results are verified by subjective questionnaires. The results reveal that the proposed method can effectively solve the problem of product color matching design with multiple constraints, can improve the efficiency of product color matching design with multiple constraints, and offers certain reliability and practicability.
Randomized, Open‐Label, Single‐Dose, Parallel‐Group Pharmacokinetic Study of PF‐06410293 (adalimumab‐afzb), an Adalimumab Biosimilar, by Subcutaneous Dosing Using a Prefilled Syringe or a Prefilled Pen in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Cox Donna S. , Alvarez Daniel F. , Bock Amy E. , Cronenberger Carol L.
Published: March 2021

This open‐label, single‐dose, randomized, parallel‐group, 2‐arm phase 1 bioequivalence (BE) study assessed the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, and tolerability of PF‐06410293 (ADL‐PF), an adalimumab (ADL) biosimilar, following administration by prefilled pen (PFP) or prefilled syringe (PFS). A total of 164 healthy adult subjects were randomized (1:1) to receive ADL‐PF (40 mg subcutaneously) in the lower abdomen or upper anterior thigh by PFS or PFP; 163 subjects were included in the primary PK analysis. The concentration‐time profiles of the ADL‐PF PFS and PFP treatment arms were similar. The 90% confidence intervals for the test/reference ratios of the primary end points (area under the serum concentration‐time profile from time 0 to 2 weeks after dosing and maximum observed serum concentration) fell within the 80.00%‐125.00% prespecified margin for BE. Comparable numbers of subjects experienced adverse events (AEs) between treatment groups, and injection‐site pain was similar at all times and for the 2 injection‐site locations. This study demonstrated the BE of ADL‐PF following subcutaneous administration using either a PFS or PFP device. ADL‐PF by PFS or PFP injection was well tolerated, with the distribution of AEs, including injection‐site reactions, being similar between treatment arms.
An efficient approach for removing haze from single image using Gaussian pyramidal decomposition
Authors: Kuppusamy Pandian Senthilkumar , Poruran Sivakumar
Published: March 2021

The visibility of the image is degraded by haze components which are affected in image during image acquisition process. The haze removal process can be categorized into haze reduction from single image and haze reduction from multiple images. The second case consumes more time and the complexity of algorithm is high. In order to overcome such limitations, this paper proposes an efficient methodology for haze reduction in single acquired image. In this paper, haze detection and removing methodology is proposed using Gaussian pyramidal decomposition. This proposed methodology is tested on both indoor and outdoor haze affected images. The performance of this proposed haze removal algorithm is analyzed with respect to average running time and peak signal to noise ratio, mean square error, mean absolute error, Entropy, and normalized histogram intersection coefficient.
Effect of Change in Valence State of Ga During Annealing on the Structural, Optical, and Electrical Properties of GZO Crystals
Authors: Liu Zhen‐Hua , Fan Long , Peng Li‐Ping , Li Jia , Fu Ya‐Jun , Xiong Zheng‐Wei , Wang Jin , Fang Jin‐Jing , Xiao Ting‐Ting , Cao Lin‐Hong , Wu Wei‐Dong
Published: March 2021

In this work, the ZnO:Ga (GZO) single crystals are grown by the chemical vapor transport (CVT) method. The as‐grown crystals are annealed under an oxygen atmosphere at different temperatures. The GZO crystal's structure and its optical and electrical properties are characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV‐VIS spectrophotometry, and variable‐temperature Hall‐effect measurement. The XPS results indicate that the valence states of the majority of gallium atoms in the GZO crystals undergo transition from the metallic (Ga0) to the non‐metallic state (Gax+) with increasing annealing temperature. The Raman and XRD results show that the compressive stress along the biaxial c‐axis on GZO crystals increases gradually with annealing temperature. Meanwhile, the GZO crystal's transmittance within the range of 300 to 1000 nm is improved significantly from being opaque to about 57%. The GZO crystals exhibit a decrease in free‐carrier concentration (1020–1019 cm−3), an increase in carrier mobility (77.8–87.9 cm2/V−1s−1) and resistivity (10−4–10−2 Ω·cm). The annealed GZO crystal's carrier concentration is practically independent of temperature (90–300 K). These results show that the free‐carrier concentrations are affected by the change of valence states in gallium atoms present in the GZO crystal.
Bioinspired Cooperative Photobiocatalytic Regeneration of Oxidized Nicotinamide Cofactors for Catalytic Oxidations
Authors: Liao Huan‐Xin , Jia Hao‐Yu , Dai Jian‐Rong , Zong Min‐Hua , Li Ning
Published: March 2021

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Ning Li at South China University of Technology. The image shows an efficient photobiocatalytic system to regenerate oxidized nicotinamide cofactors for dehydrogenase‐mediated oxidations. The Communication itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202100184.
Pulmonary carcinomas arising in association with scar: Cytomorphologic features in histologically confirmed cases
Authors: Lajara Sigfred , Trejo Bittar Humberto E. , Monaco Sara E. , Pantanowitz Liron
Published: March 2021

Background

Lung carcinoma arising in association with scar tissue is a well‐reported but much debated phenomenon. Scar tissue complicates imaging and pathologic tumor measurement for cancer staging. To the best of our knowledge, the cytological findings in lung scar carcinoma (LSC) have not been described in the literature. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the findings in fine‐needle aspirations (FNA) from histologically confirmed LSCs.

Methods

LSCs were identified on retrospective search. Cases with preoperative FNA material were reviewed, including non‐scar cases that were used for comparison. The clinical and histopathology findings were recorded.

Results

Twenty‐seven cases associated with scar tissue had material for review and 35 cases not associated with scar tissue were used for comparison. The proportion of fibrosis in resection specimens ranged from 10% to 80%. Five (19%) FNA cases were hypocellular. There was no statistically significant difference between the scar and non‐scar groups in terms of overall cellularity and diagnostic categories (P = .113 and P = .17, respectively). There was correlation between cytology and dominant pattern on histology in 19 (79%) adenocarcinoma cases. Spindle cells and fibrous or fibroelastotic fragments were present in 22 (81%) cases.

Conclusion

This is the first study describing the cytology associated with LSCs. The presence of fibrosis did not adversely impact cellularity, which is likely due to multiple excursions and selective microdissection of tumor cells by the FNA needle. The cytomorphological and histological patterns correlated in most cases. FNA is able to provide a preoperative diagnosis of carcinoma despite the presence of fibrosis.
Incorporation of mineral nitrogen into the soil food web as affected by plant community composition
Authors: Strecker Tanja , Jesch Annette , Bachmann Dörte , Jüds Melissa , Karbstein Kevin , Ravenek Janneke , Roscher Christiane , Weigelt Alexandra , Eisenhauer Nico , Scheu Stefan
Published: March 2021

Although nitrogen (N) deposition is increasing globally, N availability still limits many organisms, such as microorganisms and mesofauna. However, little is known to which extent soil organisms rely on mineral‐derived N and whether plant community composition modifies its incorporation into soil food webs. More diverse plant communities more effectively compete with microorganisms for mineral N likely reducing the incorporation of mineral‐derived N into soil food webs. We set up a field experiment in experimental grasslands with different levels of plant species and functional group richness. We labeled soil with 15NH415NO3 and analyzed the incorporation of mineral‐derived 15N into soil microorganisms and mesofauna over 3 months. Mineral‐derived N incorporation decreased over time in all investigated organisms. Plant species richness and presence of legumes reduced the uptake of mineral‐derived N into microorganisms. In parallel, the incorporation of mineral‐derived 15N into mesofauna species declined with time and decreased with increasing plant species richness in the secondary decomposer springtail Ceratophysella sp. Effects of both plant species richness and functional group richness on other mesofauna species varied with time. The presence of grasses increased the 15N incorporation into Ceratophysella sp., but decreased it in the primary decomposer oribatid mite Tectocepheus velatus sarekensis. The results highlight that mineral N is quickly channeled into soil animal food webs via microorganisms irrespective of plant diversity. The amount of mineral‐derived N incorporated into soil animals, and the plant community properties affecting this incorporation, differed markedly between soil animal taxa, reflecting species‐specific use of food resources. Our results highlight that plant diversity and community composition alter the competition for N in soil and change the transfer of N across trophic levels in soil food webs, potentially leading to changes in soil animal population dynamics and community composition. Sustaining high plant diversity may buffer detrimental effects of elevated N deposition on soil biota.
Linking the maximum reported life span to the aging rate in wild birds
Authors: Xia Canwei , Møller Anders Pape
Published: March 2021

Dozens of surrogates have been used to reflect the rate of aging in comparative biology. For wild organisms, the maximum reported life span is often considered a key metric. However, the connection between the maximum reported life span for a single individual and the aging rate of that species is far from clear. Our objective was to identify a pragmatic solution to calculate the aging rate from the maximum reported life span of wild birds. We explicitly linked the maximum reported life span to the aging process by employing a Weibull distribution and calculating the shape parameter in this model, which reflects the change in mortality across ages and be used as a surrogate for the aging rate. From simulated data, we demonstrated that the percentile estimator is suitable for calculating the aging rate based on the maximum reported life span. We also calculated the aging rate in 246 bird species based on published information from EURING and tested its relationship with body mass. Our study constitutes a new approach for using maximum reported life span in aging research. The aging rate calculated in the study is based on numerous assumptions/prerequisites and can be improved as more is learned about these assumptions/prerequisites.
Recent advances on interfacial engineering of hematite photoanodes for viable photo‐electrochemical water splitting
Authors: Li Fan , Jian Jie , Xu Youxun , Wang Shiyuan , Wang Hongyue , Wang Hongqiang
Published: March 2021

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) occurring on photoanode is considered as the key step for photo‐electronchemical (PEC) water splitting. Among many potential photoanode materials, hematite (α‐Fe2O3) shows high promise considering its ideal band position, long‐term chemical stability, and earth abundance. Unfortunately, its sluggish oxygen evolution kinetics at photoanode/electrolyte interfaces and poor bulk charge transport limit the PEC performance. Herein, the most recent developments on interfacial engineering of hematite photoanode are summarized. We first describe the optical and electronic properties of the α‐Fe2O3 that are related to the PEC performance. Subsequently, we introduce the recent endeavors on the morphological engineering of the hematite photoanode. Then, the effective strategies of interfacial engineering are highlighted to address the limitations of α‐Fe2O3 photoanode at the surfaces and/or interfaces, as well as at the grain boundaries within the film. And the most recent progress of α‐Fe2O3 photoanode‐based tandem cells for self‐assisted overall water splitting is also discussed. Finally, an outlook is presented for future efforts on promoting the interfacial charge transport for boosted PEC performance of hematite‐based photo‐electrodes.
Facile Fabrication of Hybrid Perovskite Single‐Crystalline Photocathode for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Xingmo , Zhang Rui , Yang Tiebin , Cheng Yahui , Li Feng , Li Wenxian , Huang Jun , Liu Hui , Zheng Rongkun
Published: March 2021

Recently, beyond various optoelectronic devices, lead halide perovskites have emerged as promising candidates for high‐performance photocatalysts owing to their excellent optoelectronic properties. However, most previous works on perovskite photocatalysts mainly used the forms of nanocrystals that need the perovskite‐saturated electrolyte or polycrystalline thin films that still suffer from the instability in water and low performance. Herein, the synthesis of high‐quality hybrid perovskite single crystals and their implementation as photocathodes for water splitting with a simple device structure are reported on. Optimized perovskite crystals exhibit a good water splitting photocurrent density of −0.51 mA cm−2 at 0 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) under visible light illumination. Moreover, such devices as the p‐type photocathodes show improved stability, exhibiting no obvious decrease over 600 s. This work highlights the great potential of hybrid perovskite single crystals for photocatalyst applications in aqueous solution.
A certificateless keyword searchable encryption scheme in multi‐user setting for fog‐enhanced Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Olakanmi Oladayo Olufemi , Odeyemi Kehinde Oluwasesan
Published: March 2021

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), an appendage of the Internet of Things (IoT), upgrades conventional industries to intelligent and autonomous industries. It integrates different intelligent terminals, sensors, actuators, mobile devices, cloud computing through wireless communication to enhance operational efficiency and safety. However, it relies on the powerful data processing and unlimited storage capabilities of cloud computing by outsourcing its data and on‐demand services to the cloud server. This introduces privacy and confidentiality issues, and a high cost of data access on IIoT, especially for location bound data retrieval. To enforce confidentiality in IIoT, encryption techniques are being adapted to secure the outsourced data, but not without impeding the data searching operation. Several searchable encryption schemes have been proposed for secure and privacy‐preserving data retrieval in IIoT. However, most of these schemes not only completely relied on the cloud server but also susceptible to inside keyword guessing attack (IKGA). Besides, some of them use high computation intensive cryptography operations that make them computationally intensive for resource‐constrained data users and owners. In this article, we develop a lightweight searchable public‐key encryption scheme. The scheme is provably secure against IKGA. It contains a secure key distribution approach for generating and distributing the symmetric encryption key and allows secure ciphertext data search and retrieval in a multi‐user setting without compromising privacy. Finally, we analyze and evaluate the performance of the proposed scheme by comparing the results with some recent state‐of‐the‐art schemes to quantitatively show the capabilities of the scheme.
CD47‐Mediated Hedgehog/SMO/GLI1 Signaling Promotes Mesenchymal Stem Cell Immunomodulation in Mouse Liver Inflammation
Authors: Sheng Mingwei , Lin Yuanbang , Xu Dongwei , Tian Yizhu , Zhan Yongqiang , Li Changyong , Farmer Douglas G. , Kupiec‐Weglinski Jerzy W. , Ke Bibo
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

The cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47)–signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) signaling pathway plays important roles in immune homeostasis and tissue inflammatory response. Activation of the Hedgehog/smoothened (SMO)/GLI family zinc finger 1 (Gli1) pathway regulates cell growth, differentiation, and immune function. However, it remains unknown whether and how the CD47–SIRPα interaction may regulate Hedgehog/SMO/Gli1 signaling in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)–mediated immune regulation during sterile inflammatory liver injury.

Approach and Results

In a mouse model of ischemia/reperfusion (IR)–induced sterile inflammatory liver injury, we found that adoptive transfer of MSCs increased CD47 expression and ameliorated liver IR injury. However, deletion of CD47 in MSCs exacerbated IR‐induced liver damage, with increased serum ALT levels, macrophage/neutrophil infiltration, and pro‐inflammatory mediators. MSC treatment augmented SIRPα, Hedgehog/SMO/Gli1, and Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD), whereas CD47‐deficient MSC treatment reduced these gene expressions in IR‐stressed livers. Moreover, disruption of myeloid SMO or Notch1 increased IR‐triggered liver inflammation with diminished Gli1 and NICD, but enhanced NIMA related kinase 7 (NEK7) and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) activation in MSC‐transferred mice. Using a MSC/macrophage co‐culture system, we found that MSC CD47 and macrophage SIRPα expression were increased after LPS stimulation. The CD47‐SIRPα interaction increased macrophage Gli1 and NICD nuclear translocation, whereby NICD interacted with Gli1 and regulated its target gene Dvl2 (dishevelled segment polarity protein 2), which in turn inhibited NEK7/NLRP3 activity.

Conclusions

The CD47‐SIRPα signaling activates the Hedgehog/SMO/Gli1 pathway, which controls NEK7/NLRP3 activity through a direct interaction between Gli1 and NICD. NICD is a coactivator of Gli1, and the target gene Dvl2 regulated by the NICD‐Gli1 complex is crucial for the modulation of NLRP3‐driven inflammatory response in MSC‐mediated immune regulation. Our findings provide potential therapeutic targets in MSC‐mediated immunotherapy of sterile inflammatory liver injury.
Prioritizing people and rapid learning in times of crisis: A virtual learning initiative to support health workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Engelbrecht Beth , Gilson Lucy , Barker Pierre , Vallabhjee Krish , Kantor Gareth , Budden Mike , Parbhoo Anita , Lehmann Uta
Published: March 2021

The Western Cape province was the early epicentre of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in South Africa and on the African continent. In this short article we report on an initiative set up within the provincial Department of Health early in the pandemic to facilitate collective learning and support for health workers and managers across the health system, emphasising the importance of leadership, systems resilience, nonhierarchical learning and connectedness. These strategies included regular and systematic engagement with organised labour, different ways of gauging and responding to staff morale, and daily ‘huddles’ for raid learning and responsive action. We propose three transformational actions that could deliver health systems that protect staff during good times and in times of system shocks. (a) Continuously invest in building the foundations of system resilience in good times, to draw on in an acute crisis situation. (b) Provide consistent leadership for an explicit commitment to supporting health workers through decisive action across the system. (c) Optimise available resources and partners, act on improvement ideas and obstacles. Build trusting relationships amongst and across actors.
Numerical and sensitivity analysis of MHD bioconvective slip flow of nanomaterial with binary chemical reaction and Newtonian heating
Authors: Basir Md Faisal Md , Bilal Muhammad , Choudhary Rakesh , Mackolil Joby , Mahanthesh B. , Nisar Kottakkaran S.
Published: March 2021

The impact of Stefan blowing on the MHD bioconvective slip flow of a nanofluid towards a sheet is explored using numerical and statistical tools. The governing partial differential equations are nondimensionalized and converted to similarity equations using apposite transformations. These transformed equations are solved using the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg method with the shooting technique. Graphical visualizations are used to scrutinize the effect of the controlling parameters on the flow profiles, skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt, and Sherwood number. Moreover, the sensitivities of the reduced Sherwood and Nusselt number to the input variables of interest are explored by adopting the response surface methodology. The outcomes of the limiting cases are emphatically in corroboration with the outcomes from preceding research. It is found that the heat transfer rate has a positive sensitivity towards the haphazard motion of the nanoparticles and a negative sensitivity towards the thermomigration. The thermal field is enhanced by the Stefan blowing aspect. Moreover, the fluid velocity can be controlled by the applied magnetic field.
Integrated pest management effects on weed populations managed without herbicides in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Braithwaite Emily , Stock Tim , Kowalewski Alec
Published: March 2021

Pesticide usage on public school grounds is a concern in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Our objective was to determine how variations in primary cultural management practices (mowing, fertilization, and irrigation), in the absence of herbicide applications, can affect turfgrass quality, and weed populations. Three experiments were conducted over three years at the OSU Lewis‐Brown Horticulture Farm in Corvallis, OR on a mixed stand of cool‐season turfgrass. Findings from the mowing study show that the 10.0 cm weekly mowing height resulted in significantly fewer weeds than plots maintained at 5.0 cm. Results from the fertility study indicate that fertilization, at 4.9 and 9.8 g N m–2 yr–1, reduced weed populations as compared to non‐fertilized plots. No differences in weed incidence was observed between treatments in the irrigation trial, but plots receiving irrigation weekly (0.6 cm applied four times per week and 80% ETref replacement applied four times per week) maintained acceptable turf quality throughout the trial.
(Theta, triangle)‐free and (even hole, K4)‐free graphs. Part 2: Bounds on treewidth
Authors: Pilipczuk Marcin , Sintiari Ni Luh Dewi , Thomassé Stéphan , Trotignon Nicolas
Published: March 2021

A theta is a graph made of three internally vertex‐disjoint chordless paths , of length at least 2 and such that no edges exist between the paths except the three edges incident to and the three edges incident to . A pyramid is a graph made of three chordless paths , of length at least 1, two of which have length at least 2, vertex‐disjoint except at , and such that is a triangle and no edges exist between the paths except those of the triangles and the three edges incident to . An even hole is a chordless cycle of even length. For three nonnegative integers , let be the tree with a vertex , from which start three paths with , and edges, respectively. We denote by the complete graph on vertices. We prove that for all nonnegative integers , the class of graphs that contain no theta, no , and no as induced subgraphs have bounded treewidth. We prove that for all nonnegative integers , the class of graphs that contain no even hole, no pyramid, no , and no as induced subgraphs have bounded treewidth. To bound the treewidth, we prove that every graph of large treewidth must contain a large clique or a minimal separator of large cardinality.
The Creativity of Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Bonetto Eric , Arciszewski Thomas
Published: March 2021

Conspiracy theories are narratives, they tell mostly fictional stories. In that sense, conspiracy theories are creative productions similar to other productions involving narratives, such as poems, films, or stories. However, contrary to these productions regularly studied in the field of creativity, conspiracy theories remain unexplored in this field. The present contribution proposes to consider conspiracy narratives as creative products. We discuss the extent to which these narratives meet the criteria of the standard definition of creativity and how their negative individual and societal consequences place conspiracy narratives in the dark side of creativity. We argue that this new perspective on conspiracies may partly change the way we study their construction and their psychological convenience. We finally discuss some theoretical and methodological perspectives linked to this proposition. Overall, this contribution intends to draw the attention of creativity researchers to these real‐world and abundant creative products.
Raman shifts in MBE‐grown SixGe1 − x − ySny alloys with large Si content
Authors: Schlipf Jon , Tetzner Henriette , Spirito Davide , Manganelli Costanza L. , Capellini Giovanni , Huang Michael R. S. , Koch Christoph T. , Clausen Caterina J. , Elsayed Ahmed , Oehme Michael , Chiussi Stefano , Schulze Jörg , Fischer Inga A.
Published: March 2021

We examine the Raman shift in silicon–germanium–tin alloys with high silicon content grown on a germanium virtual substrate by molecular beam epitaxy. The Raman shifts of the three most prominent modes, Si–Si, Si–Ge, and Ge–Ge, are measured and compared with results in previous literature. We analyze and fit the dependence of the three modes on the composition and strain of the semiconductor alloys. We also demonstrate the calculation of the composition and strain of SixGe1 − x − ySny from the Raman shifts alone, based on the fitted relationships. Our analysis extends previous results to samples lattice matched on Ge and with higher Si content than in prior comprehensive Raman analyses, thus making Raman measurements as a local, fast, and nondestructive characterization technique accessible for a wider compositional range of these ternary alloys for silicon‐based photonic and microelectronic devices.
Comprehensive Analysis of Factors Affecting Cochlear Size: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Atalay Basak , Eser Mehmet Bilgin , Kalcioglu Mahmut Tayyar , Ankarali Handan
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To determine the cochlea's average size in humans and evaluate the relationships between certain covariates and cochlear size.

Methods

A systematic search on articles on cochlear size and published in English was conducted using Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases up to September 15, 2020. Data were pooled using random‐effects with three models. The effect of demographic, clinical, and measurement‐related parameters was specifically analyzed. Meta‐regression and subgroup analyses were conducted. The overall effect estimation was made for outcomes.

Results

The meta‐analysis included 4,708 cochleae from 56 studies. The overall length of the organ of Corti was 32.94 mm (95% confidence interval [CI]: 32.51–33.38). The first and second models revealed that age, gender, country, continent, measurement method (direct, indirect), measured structure (“A” value, cochlear lateral wall), origin (in vivo, in vitro), and type (histology specimens, plastic casts, imaging) of the cochlear material did not affect the cochlear size. However, study populations (general population, patients with a cochlear implant, and patients with congenital sensorineural hearing loss [CSNHL]) were found to affect the outcomes. Compared to the other populations, patients with CSNHL had shorter cochleae. Therefore, we developed a third model and found that the general population and patients with cochlear implants did not differ in cochlear size.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis investigated the factors that could affect the cochlear size and found that patients with CSNHL had significantly shorter cochleae, whereas other covariates had no significant effect. Laryngoscope, 132:188–197, 2022
Making realistic wave climates in low‐cost wave mesocosms: A new tool for experimental ecology and biogeomorphology
Authors: Infantes Eduardo , de Smit Jaco C. , Tamarit Elena , Bouma Tjeerd J.
Published: March 2021

Wave flume facilities that are primarily designed for engineering studies are often complex and expensive to operate, and hence not ideal for long‐term replicated experiments as commonly used in biology. This study describes a low‐cost small wave flume that can be used for biological purposes using fresh‐ or seawater with or without sediment. The wave flume can be used as a mesocosm to study interactions between wave hydrodynamics and benthic organisms in aquatic ecosystems. The low‐costs wave maker (< 2000 USD) allows for experimental setups which can be easily replicated and used for longer term studies; hence the term wave mesocosm. Waves were generated with a pneumatic piston and wave heights ranged between 3 and 6 cm. Maximum orbital flow velocities ranged between 10 and 50 cm s−1representing shallow coastal areas with a short fetch. The system can generate both regular waves (i.e., the wave period and orbital velocity remains constant), using a wave absorber, and irregular waves (i.e., varying wave period and orbital velocity) using a fast push and slow pull motion of the wave paddle. This wave mesocosm system is particularly useful in biogeomorphology to quantify interactions between organisms, sediment, and hydrodynamics and for aquatic ecologist aiming to simulate realistic bed shear stress where short‐ and long‐term experiments (weeks–months) can be replicated.
Micro‐Light Emitting Diode: From Chips to Applications
Authors: Parbrook Peter J. , Corbett Brian , Han Jung , Seong Tae‐Yeon , Amano Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

Typical light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) have a form factor >(300 × 300) µm2. Such LEDs are commercially mature in illumination and ultralarge displays. However, recent LED research includes shrinking individual LED sizes from side lengths >300 µm to values <100 µm, leading to devices called micro‐LEDs. Their advent creates a number of exciting new application spaces. Here, a review of the principles and applications of micro‐LED technology is presented. In particular, the implications of reduced LED size in necessitating mitigation strategies for nonradiative device edge damage as well as the potential for higher drive current densities are discussed. The opportunities to integrate micro‐LEDs with electronics, and into large‐scale arrays, allow pixel addressable scalable integrated displays, while the small micro‐LED size is ideal for high‐speed modulation for visible light communication, and for integration into biological systems as part of optogenetic therapies.
Application of intraoperative indocyanine green angiography for detecting flap congestion in the use of free deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps for breast reconstruction
Authors: Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Karakawa Ryo , Scaglioni Mario F. , Fuse Yuma , Tanakura Kenta , Yano Tomoyuki
Published: March 2021

Background

The use of intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) angiography has been well documented for confirmation of arterial perfusion in transferred free flaps. However, no previous report has yet focused on whether ICG angiography can be used to detect congestion in free flaps. The present report investigates the feasibility of ICG angiography for detecting flap congestion intraoperatively through illustrative cases.

Methods

From September 2019 to September 2020, 65 consecutive female patients who underwent breast reconstructions using a free deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap were enrolled in this study. Forty‐eight patients with 52 DIEP flaps were eligible for the study after application of the exclusion criteria. ICG angiography was performed after elevation of the flap, after completion of the anastomoses, and after inset of the flap.

Results

In five cases (9.6%), an inadequate highlight was demonstrated with ICG angiography performed after flap elevation. All such cases were deemed congestive since robust bleeding was observed with the prick test. ICG angiography demonstrated sufficient highlight of the flap after removal of the clamp on the superficial inferior epigastric vein. In two cases (4.2%), kinking of the pedicle vein of the DIEP flap was found with ICG angiography performed after inset of the flap. In both cases, the pedicle and the flap were reinset. All flaps survived completely postoperatively.

Conclusion

ICG angiography can detect flap congestion, and the proposed 3‐step protocol is useful for the prevention of postoperative complications.
Nursing process from theory to practice: Evidence from the implementation of "Coming back to existence caring model" in burn wards
Authors: Lotfi Mojgan , Zamanzadeh Vahid , Khodayari‐Zarnaq Rahim , Mobasseri Khorshid
Published: March 2021

Aim

To develop the caring model and utilize and evaluate the effect of the model in the nursing student's learning process in burn wards.

Design

A longitudinal multiphase study.

Methods

In the first phase, "Coming back to existence caring model" was developed, in the second phase, to evaluate the program, 35 students in the first semester and 31 students in the second semester of the 2017–2018 academic year were selected randomly, and their logbooks were analysed.

Results

Components of the nursing process, based on the model, were wound management, care and documentation, early mobilization, discharge planning and patient education. The lowest nursing process utilization in both semesters was in the sexuality domain. The most nursing diagnosis was a risk for infection. In the discharge plan, education about how the patient communicates with others in the second semester was less than other educational content (61/3%). However, empowering students was remarkable.
Compactification in optimal control of McKean‐Vlasov stochastic differential equations
Authors: Mezerdi Mohamed Amine
Published: March 2021

We study existence and approximation of optimal controls for systems governed by McKean‐Vlasov stochastic differential equations. It is well known in simple examples that in the absence of convexity conditions, the strict control problem has no optimal solution. The compactification of the set of such strict admissible controls leads to measure valued controls called relaxed controls. The space of relaxed controls enjoys nice topological properties. We prove that under pathwise uniqueness of solutions of the state equation, the relaxed state process is continuous with respect to the control variable. This means that the relaxed and strict control problems have the same value function. Moreover, we show, under merely continuity of the coefficients, that an optimal control exists in the space of relaxed controls. Under additional convexity hypothesis, we show that the optimal relaxed control is a strict control. These two results extend known results to general nonlinear MVSDEs, under minimal assumptions on the coefficients.