bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coumarin Derivative Induced 3D Organo‐Silver(I) Complex with Tandem Hydrazine Detection and 4‐Nitrophenol Catalysis
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Yuan , Hao Hui‐Ping , Zhang Yun‐Jie , Lv Yu‐Guang , Wang Xin‐Yu , Liu Hong , Li Shou‐Cong , Gao Guang‐Gang
Published: December 2021

A new 3D organo‐silver(I) crystalline complex of [(MPC)4(CF3COO)8Ag10]n (MPC = 4‐methyl‐7‐propargyloxy coumarin) (JMSU‐Ag10) has been successfully synthesized. The crystal structure analysis shows that the 10‐core silver(I) cluster (Ag10) can be considered as the subunit of JMSU‐Ag10 with different AgAg argentophilic interactions. By the protection of organic ligands and AgAg interactions, the Ag10 subunits further compose a chain structure, and then the trifluoroacetate or the MPC ligands bridge the 1D silver(I) chains along different directions to form the 3D framework. Furthermore, JMSU‐Ag10 can be used to detect the hydrazine due to that the Ag+ ions can be reduced to Ag0 species with strong UV–vis absorption. Interestingly, the reduced JMSU‐Ag10 by hydrazine can be further used to catalyze the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to form 4‐aminophenol. This work provides a new strategy for the design, synthesis, and the cyclic utilization of functional organo‐silver(I) crystalline materials.
Facile Production of 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid via Oxidation of Industrially Sourced Crude 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Zuo Xiaobin , Venkitasubramanian Padmesh , Martin Kevin J. , Subramaniam Bala
Published: December 2021

The oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) produces value‐added chemicals such as 2,5‐diformylfuran (DFF) and 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). In this work, FDCA production was achieved by oxidation of crude HMF solution containing around 45 % HMF and unwanted byproducts such as 5,5′‐[oxy‐bis(methylene)]bis‐2‐furfural (HMF dimer) and polymers. At optimized reaction conditions similar to the Mid‐Century process, homogeneous oxidation of the crude HMF (up to 20 wt% in the feed) by Co/Mn/Br catalyst in acetic acid solution produced FDCA at >95 % yield. The solid FDCA product contained <4000 ppm 5‐formyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (FFCA). Such high yields were observed because the impurities in crude HMF were also converted to FDCA, as confirmed by the facile oxidation of HMF dimer to FDCA under reaction conditions. The successful demonstration of crude HMF as feed, obviating the need for HMF purification, suggests potential for cost‐effectively producing FDCA in existing terephthalic plants.
Applicability of the long‐term uncertainty in measurement (LTUM) method for analytical performance assessment in clinical cytometry laboratories
Authors: Dannus Louis‐Thomas , Mulliez Aurélien , Berger Marc , Bourgne Céline , Veyrat‐Masson Richard
Published: December 2021

Background

The estimation of uncertainty in measurement for quantitative analyses is an international obligation of the ISO15189 standard for laboratories. The most widespread method is the Internal Quality Control and External Quality Assessment (IQC + EQA).

Methods

We compared two methods to assess uncertainty in measurement for the quantification of the number of CD34+ stem cells and of the different lymphocyte subpopulations in blood samples: the IQC + EQA method and the Long‐Term Uncertainty in Measurement (LTUM) method.

Results

We focused on the CD3+/CD4+ T lymphocyte subpopulation for a target value of 350 CD3+/CD4+/μl. The range in terms of uncertainty in the measurement of 350 CD3+/CD4+ cells/μl with the IQC + EQA method was [292.8; 407.2]. With the LTUM method, the uncertainty was 19.1% of the measured value. This represented a range of [283.2; 416.9].

Conclusions

The relative uncertainty calculated with the LTUM method can be adapted to any level of the measured parameter. IQC and EQA calculate the absolute uncertainty and need a clustering of values at different levels. This clustering can lead to some approximations in the uncertainty in measurement determination, particularly around the cut‐off values. Unlike previous reports, uncertainty values were higher when calculated with the LTUM than with the IQC + EQA method. However, LTUM might be more representative of the daily routine practice with patient samples.
Elevation‐related climatic factors dominate soil free‐living nematode communities and their co‐occurrence patterns on Mt. Halla, South Korea
Authors: Yu Zhi , Zou Shuqi , Li Nan , Kerfahi Dorsaf , Lee Changbae , Adams Jonathan , Kwak Hyun Jeong , Kim Jinsoo , Lee Sang‐Seob , Dong Ke
Published: December 2021

Nematodes play vital roles in soil ecosystems. To understand how their communities and coexistence patterns change along the elevation as well as to determine the best explanatory factors underlying these changes, we investigated free‐living soil nematodes on Mt. Halla, South Korea, using an amplicon sequencing approach targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Our results showed that there was significant variation in the community diversity and composition of soil nematodes in relation to elevation. The network interactions between soil nematodes were more intensive at the lower elevations. Climatic variables were responsible explaining the elevational variation in community composition and co‐occurrence pattern of the nematode community. Our study indicated that climatic factors served as the critical environmental filter that influenced not only the community structure but also the potential associations of soil nematodes in the mountain ecosystem of Mt. Halla. These findings enhance the understanding of the community structure and co‐occurrence network patterns and mechanisms of soil nematode along elevation, and the response of soil nematodes to climate change on the vertical scale of mountain ecosystems.
Sustainable long‐term mitigation of floods and droughts in semiarid regions: Integrated optimal management strategies for a salt lake basin
Authors: Siniscalchi Amira G. , Diaz Maria Soledad , Lara Rubén José
Published: December 2021

We present a management project for the mitigation of extreme climatic events in the frame of cyclic wet and dry periods in the semiarid Pampean region of Argentina. The developed methodological approach allows quantitative planning of strategies to tackle the effect of recurrent floods and droughts in a salt lake basin through the formulation of an optimal control problem, which constitutes a novel approach to ecohydrological systems management. The control variables correspond to (i) diversion flows from a lake tributary to an artificial freshwater reservoir to damp lake flooding, (ii) freshwater flows from the reservoir to the salt lake to keep its salinity at desired values and (iii) freshwater flows to irrigate crops during drought periods. Further, we address the economic valuation of ecosystem services in the basin. Quantitative results provide useful insights on optimal management strategies and the effects of their implementation, as well as their impact on the valuated services in the watershed under study.
To TikTok or not?
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: December 2021

TikTok is wildly popular. Even if you're not active on the app itself, you've likely seen a TikTok video shared in your Facebook or Twitter feed — or as a clip featured on your favorite late‐night TV show.
Expand your reach with online certificate offerings
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2021

The first job Tiffany Watson, Ph.D., had in higher education was as the head cheerleading coach for Norfolk State University. The experience fired a passion in Watson for student success and development, and higher education leadership.
Predicting financial crises with machine learning methods
Authors: Liu Lanbiao , Chen Chen , Wang Bo
Published: December 2021

Countries must establish an effective early warning system to predict financial crises in order to avoid their catastrophic effects. To this end, we construct early warning systems based on the logistic model and seven machine learning methods, and we also use the Shapley value decomposition and Shapley regression to explore the causality of the machine learning methods. By comparing the performance of different early warning models in out‐of‐sample tests, we find that the machine learning models, especially the random forest, gradient boosting decision tree, and ensemble models, outperform the logistic model in terms of providing early predictions of financial crises. In addition, the Shapley value can be used to find more effective predictive indicators and analyze the causes of risks in different countries to a certain extent, enabling policymakers to supplement the policy toolbox to deal with such crises. Thus, we suggest that machine learning methods should be considered when establishing early warning systems to predict financial crises in the future.
Potential Utility of Induced Translocation of Engineered Bacteria as a Therapeutic Agent for Mounting a Personalized Neoantigen‐Based Tumor Immune Response
Authors: Luengo‐Gil Ginés , Conesa‐Zamora Pablo
Published: December 2021

Today, an unprecedented understanding of the cancer genome, along with major breakthroughs in oncoimmunotherapy, and a resurgence of nucleic acid vaccines against cancer are being achieved. However, in most cases, the immune system response is still insufficient to react against cancer, especially in those tumors showing low mutational burden. One way to counteract tumor escape can be the induction of bacterial translocation, a phenomenon associated with autoimmune diseases which consists of a leakage in the colonic mucosa barrier, causing the access of gut bacteria to sterile body compartments such as blood. Certain commensal or live‐attenuated bacteria can be engineered in such a way as to contain nucleic acids coding for tumor neoantigens previously selected from individual tumor RNAseq data. Hypothetically, these modified bacteria, previously administered orally to a cancer patient, can be translocated by several compounds acting on colonic mucosa, thus releasing neoantigens in a systemic environment in the context of an acute inflammation. Several strategies for selecting neoantigens, suitable bacteria strains, genetic constructs, and translocation inducers to achieve tumor‐specific activations of CD4 and CD8 T‐cells are discussed in this hypothesis.
Activation of microglial GPR109A alleviates thermal hyperalgesia in female lupus mice by suppressing IL‐18 and glutamatergic synaptic activity
Authors: Viatchenko‐Karpinski Viacheslav , Kong Lingwei , Weng Han‐Rong
Published: December 2021

Many patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) live with chronic pain despite advances in medical management in reducing mortality related to SLE. Few animal studies have addressed mechanisms and treatment for chronic pain caused by SLE. In this study, we provide the first evidence for the analgesic effects of a GPR109A specific agonist (MK1903) and its action mechanisms in thermal hyperalgesia in female MRL/lpr mice, an SLE mouse model. Specifically, we show that MRL/lpr mice had a higher sensitivity to thermal stimuli at age 11–16 weeks, which was accompanied with significantly microglial and astrocytic activation, increases in p38 MAPK and glutamatergic synaptic activities in the spinal dorsal horn. We demonstrate that thermal hyperalgesia in MRL/lpr mice was significantly attenuated by intrathecal injection of MK1903. GPR109A was expressed in spinal microglia but not astrocytes or neurons. Its expression was significantly increased in MRL/lpr mice with thermal hyperalgesia. Activation of GPR109A receptors in microglia attenuated glutamatergic synaptic activity via suppressing production of interleukin‐18 (IL‐18). We provide evidence that activation of GPR109A attenuated thermal hyperalgesia in the SLE animal model via suppressing p38 MAPK activity and production of IL‐18. Our study suggests that targeting the microglial GPR109A is a potent approach for reversing spinal neuroinflammation, abnormal excitatory synaptic activity, and management of thermal hyperalgesia caused by SLE.
Dynamics of underwriting profits in the US market: Payout patterns and regulation effects
Authors: Jiang Shi‐jie , Tsai Jeffrey Tzu‐Hao , Xiang Feiyun
Published: December 2021

The empirical investigation of the underwriting profits of six major insurance lines in the US market during 1956–2016 suggests that the data generating process of underwriting profits follows a first‐order autoregressive process for less regulated business lines, whereas highly regulated business lines follow a second‐order autoregressive process. This study verified the long‐run relationships between risk‐free interest rates and underwriting profits for individual lines. Specifically, the long‐run sensitivities of interest rates for less regulated long‐tail lines were greater than those for other lines. We also found that the length of tail acted as a crucial part of the feedback dynamics. The shorter the tails, the greater the tendency to go back to equilibrium, while the longer the tails, the smaller the tendency. In addition, an analysis of cumulative dynamic multipliers showed that the adjustment patterns for the lagged effects of interest rates varied for each business line. The pricing strategies and the safety loading activities of different individual lines were also discussed in this study.
Design of rectangular coaxial slot antenna for ultra‐high‐field magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Kim Donghyuk , Nam Taewoo , Hernandez Daniel , Kim Kyoung‐Nam
Published: December 2021

Rectangular coaxial slot arrays (RCSAs) are antennas designed to ensure superior field penetration depth with a high signal‐to‐noise ratio (S/N) in the deeper imaging region of ultra‐high magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The RCSA consists of a transmission line of λ/4 length surrounded by a dielectric material, and a ground plate that resembles a rectangular coaxial line. We extended this antenna to eight elements. The simulation indicates that a single RCSA has a distribution similar to that of the generally used dipole antenna for traveling RF waves. However, the of the RCSA in an array configuration was stronger in the deep brain region of the human brain model and its specific absorption rate was lower compared to the dipole and monopole antenna arrays. The proposed RSCA array can be adapted to acquire MR signals with high sensitivity in a deeper imaging region in an ultra‐high field MRI scanner.
Alpha‐mangostin and resveratrol, dual‐drugs‐loaded mucoadhesive thiolated chitosan‐based nanoparticles for synergistic activity against colon cancer cells
Authors: Samprasit Wipada , Opanasopit Praneet , Chamsai Benchawan
Published: December 2021

Alpha‐mangostin (M) and resveratrol (R), dual‐drugs‐loaded mucoadhesive thiolated chitosan‐based nanoparticles (NPs) coated by Eudragit® S100 (S) were developed for colon‐specific delivery and synergistic activity against colon cancer cells. The NPs were prepared by the ionotropic gelation method and coated with S. The particle size and zeta potential of NPs before and after the coating process were observed. The M and R loading efficiency, mucoadhesive properties, as well as release patterns were examined. Moreover, the activity against colon cancer cells of M, R, and NPs were studied for their synergistic activity. M and R‐loaded NPs (MR‐TNPs) were spherical in shape with sizes of around 540 nm and zeta potential of +39 mV. The S coating of MR‐TNPs provided larger particle sizes which offered lower zeta potential. However, it created an increase in M and R loading, prevented M and R release at the upper gastrointestinal tract, and enhanced M and R reaching the colon. S dissolved at pH > 7.0 while thiolated chitosan formed the mucoadhesion, resulting in M and R remaining in the colon and allowing them to enter the colon cancer cells. The half‐maximal inhibitory concentration values of NPs was dramatically decreased when M and R were dually loaded into the NPs, which indicated significantly higher activity against colon cancer cells. Moreover, M and R loading at this ratio applied synergistic efficiency. The results illustrated that NPs successfully loaded drugs and achieved synergistic efficiency. This system could be promising in facilitating targeted nanomedicines for the treatment of colon cancer.
Schema chemistry: An interpersonal framework for making sense of intimate partner violence
Authors: Beckley Kerry
Published: December 2021

This article aims to use Schema theory to illustrate how interpersonal dynamics and their consequences have implications for individuals engaged in intimate partner violence. Schema theory would suggest that an intimate relationship creates a context where there is an increased likelihood of early relational patterns being repeated on both parts. On occasion, faulty assumptions being made about the motivations of the perpetrator resulting from a need for power and control can prevent a more curious exploration of the difficulties arising. The chapter will outline a case example to illustrate how a couples trauma histories can help to understand the triggers which result in harm being caused. This in no way suggests that a victim is to blame for violence perpetrated against them, but exploration of the interpersonal context can provide greater insight into the reasons why violence and coercive control may manifest.
Private supplementary education and Chinese adolescents' development: The moderating effects of family socioeconomic status
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Wu Yuxiao
Published: December 2021

Using the data from the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS), this study estimated the effects of two types of private supplementary education, namely, cram school and hobby class, on the development of Chinese junior high school students and the moderating effects of family socioeconomic status (SES). First, we found that cram schools and hobby classes both positively correlate with some dimensions of adolescents' development while negatively correlating with others. Attending cram schools is positively associated with students' academic achievement but negatively related to their noncognitive skills. Participating in hobby classes is positively associated with noncognitive abilities but negatively related to cognitive abilities. Second, the negative correlations between cram schools and noncognitive abilities and between hobby classes and cognitive abilities are stronger for low‐SES students than their affluent counterparts. The current study's findings shed new light on the role of private supplementary education in educational inequality and social stratification in China.
A comprehensive study to delineate the role of an extracellular vesicle‐associated microRNA‐29a in chronic methamphetamine use disorder
Authors: Chand Subhash , Gowen Austin , Savine Mason , Moore Dalia , Clark Alexander , Huynh Wendy , Wu Niming , Odegaard Katherine , Weyrich Lucas , Bevins Rick A. , Fox Howard S. , Pendyala Gurudutt , Yelamanchili Sowmya V.
Published: December 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which express a repertoire of cargo molecules (cf. proteins, microRNA, lipids, etc.), have been garnering a prominent role in the modulation of several cellular processes. Here, using both non‐human primate and rodent model systems, we provide evidence that brain‐derived EV (BDE) miRNA, miR‐29a‐3p (mir‐29a), is significantly increased during chronic methamphetamine (MA) exposure. Further, miR‐29a levels show significant increase both with drug‐seeking and reinstatement in a rat MA self‐administration model. We also show that EV‐associated miR‐29a is enriched in EV pool comprising of small EVs and exomeres and further plays a critical role in MA‐induced inflammation and synaptodendritic damage. Furthermore, treatment with the anti‐inflammatory drug ibudilast (AV411), which is known to reduce MA relapse, decreased the expression of miR‐29a and subsequently attenuated inflammation and rescued synaptodendritic injury. Finally, using plasma from MUD subjects, we provide translational evidence that EV‐miR29a could potentially serve as a biomarker to detect neuronal damage in humans diagnosed with MA use disorder (MUD). In summary, our work suggests that EV‐associated miR‐29a‐3p plays a crucial role in MUD and might be used as a potential blood‐based biomarker for detecting chronic inflammation and synaptic damage.
The Conversion of MRI Data With Multiple b‐Values into Signature‐Like Pictures to Predict Treatment Response for Rectal Cancer
Authors: Zhu Hai‐Tao , Zhang Xiao‐Yan , Shi Yan‐Jie , Li Xiao‐Ting , Sun Ying‐Shi
Published: December 2021

Background

Diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) at multiple b‐values has been used to predict the pathological complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer. Non‐Gaussian models fit the signal decay of diffusion by several physical values from different approaches of approximation.

Purpose

To develop a deep learning method to analyze DWI data scanned at multiple b‐values independent on Gaussian or non‐Gaussian models and to apply to a rectal cancer neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy model.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 472 participants (age: 56.6 ± 10.5 years; 298 males and 174 females) with locally advanced adenocarcinoma were enrolled and chronologically divided into a training group (n = 200; 42 pCR/158 non‐pCR), a validation group (n = 72; 11 pCR/61 non‐pCR) and a test group (n = 200; 44 pCR/156 non‐pCR).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T MRI scanner. DWI with a single‐shot spin echo‐planar imaging pulse sequence at 12 b‐values (0, 20, 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200, 1400, and 1600 sec/mm2).

Assessment

DWI signals from manually delineated tumor region were converted into a signature‐like picture by concatenating all histograms from different b‐values. Pathological results (pCR/non‐pCR) were used as the ground truth for deep learning. Gaussian and non‐Gaussian methods were used for comparison.

Statistical Tests

Analysis of variance for age; Chi‐square for gender and pCR/non‐pCR; area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC); DeLong test for AUC. P < 0.05 for significant difference.

Results

The AUC in the test group is 0.924 (95% CI: 0.866–0.983) for the signature‐like pictures converted from 35 bins, and it is 0.931 (95% CI: 0.884–0.979) for the signature‐like pictures converted from 70 bins, which is significantly (Z = 3.258, P < 0.05) larger than Dapp, the best predictor in non‐Gaussian methods with AUC = 0.773 (95% CI: 0.682–0.865).

Data Conclusion

The proposed signature‐like pictures provide more accurate pretreatment prediction of the response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy than the fitted methods for locally advanced rectal cancer.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Structure and maintenance mechanisms of the Mascarene High in austral winter
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Wen Zhiping , Li Xiuzhen , Chen Ruidan , Chen Guixing
Published: December 2021

The Mascarene High (MH), is a key component of the Asian‐Africa‐Australia monsoon system in austral winter (JJA), spanning over the South Indian Ocean (15°–35°S, 15°–110°E). Its three‐dimensional structures and maintenance mechanisms are examined in this study. It is a low‐level subtropical high dominating the southern Africa and South Indian Ocean, characterized by a north‐westward tilt with height, which is attributed to its spatially inhomogeneous thermal structure. Large‐scale subsidence characterizes the main body of the MH, with the stronger subsidence to the east than to the west. Diagnosis using the complete form of the vertical vorticity tendency equation shows that the anticyclonic structure of the MH, which can be described by the distribution of meridional wind, is maintained mainly by the vertical gradient of diabatic heating, change in static stability, and friction dissipation. In particular, a combination of sensible heating and longwave radiative cooling results in a vertical decreasing gradient of diabatic heating in the lower troposphere. It generates the stronger southerlies over the subtropical South Indian Ocean than over the southern Africa. Meanwhile, over the South Indian Ocean, the increasing static stability as a result of the downward transport of a more stable atmosphere partly offsets the effect of the vertical gradient of diabatic heating, and southerlies still prevail there. Over the southern Africa, topographic friction dissipation induces northerlies, balancing the effect of the vertical gradient of diabatic heating with a stronger magnitude, and northerlies prevail.
Soft Actuator Based on Metal/Hydrogel Nanocomposites with Anisotropic Structure
Authors: Gao Yang , Zhao Xueqi , Han Xiuyuan , Wang Peiyao , Zheng Wen Jiang
Published: December 2021

The controlling of anisotropic structure in smart hydrogels is essential to fabricate hydrogel‐based soft actuators. Herein, a facile strategy to fabricate smart hydrogel with controllable anisotropic structure and the corresponding deformability is proposed. Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) hydrogel is fabricated as actuator by asymmetric growth of silver (Ag) microdendrite structures in the hydrogel matrix through a phototriggered electroreduction. The existence of Ag microdendrite structures at specific area in hydrogel changes the swelling/shrinking rates of the related region, which driving the deformation behavior of the hydrogel. By adjusting the electroreduction parameters and the patterns on the reducing electrode, distribution of Ag microstructures both along the vertical and lateral direction in hydrogel matrix can be precisely controlled, which further enables designed deformations of the hydrogel nanocomposites. As a result, various soft actuators such as bending beam, gripper, and flower‐shaped actuator are designed, and the temperature triggered actions of these actuators, such as curling and gripping are realized.
Uniform Contraction and High Force Output of Photoresponsive Shape‐Memory Polymer Actuators with Large Thickness Based on Vertical Distribution of Rare Earth Oxides
Authors: Shan Panpan , Chen Xinyu , Tan Bin , Cao Daruo , Fang Liang , Lu Chunhua , Xu Zhongzi
Published: December 2021

Light induced soft actuators have broad application prospects where non‐contact stimulation and remote control are required. However, such soft actuators cannot achieve uniform contraction easily due to the weak penetration of light. Here, with the aid of vertical distribution of Sm2O3, Yb2O3, and Nd2O3 as selectively photothermal fillers along film thickness, a near‐infrared (NIR) light (1064, 980, and 808 nm) induced soft actuator based on shape‐memory polymer composites, which has a large thickness up to 2 mm is reported. The results show that tri‐layer films present uniform contraction and could lift a weight of 101.44 g by 8 mm under simultaneous irradiations of three NIR light beams. It is believed that the vertical distribution of selectively photothermal fillers provides a new strategy to create light induced soft actuators that can present uniform shape reconfiguration and high pulling force, further filling the gap between material concept and engineering applications.
Decomposition of efficiency in the global seed industry: A nonparametric approach
Authors: Smart Richard D. , Ait Sidhoum Amer , Sauer Johannes
Published: December 2021

We analyzed the efficiency levels of nine of the largest commercial seed‐producing firms globally for the period 2008–2015 and assessed if there is a relationship between firm size and efficiency. We employed the nonparametric technique of data envelopment analysis (DEA) using an input‐oriented model with balanced panel data. We accounted for the assumption of time invariance of the frontier by using the DEA windows analysis technique. Aggregate mean overall technical efficiency increased by 0.8%. We decomposed these results to pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency, and found no meaningful relationship between firm size (assets) and efficiency.
Comparison of the early development of the professional values for nursing students in the traditional program and the second‐degree program: a longitudinal study
Authors: Lin Hui‐Ping , Chang Tsai‐Hsiu , Lee Hsiu‐Fang , Tsai Yu‐Hsia , Chang C.W , Chiang Hui‐Chu , Liu Hsueh‐Erh
Published: December 2021

Aim

This study aims to compare the early development of professional value between the students in the traditional programme (BSN) and those in the accelerated BSN (ABSN) programmes.

Design

A longitudinal design was conducted.

Methods

Data were collected from three schools of nursing during one academic year. A total of 117 BSN students and 101 ABSN students completed the survey of demographic information and the Nurses’ Professional Values Scale–Revised questionnaires. All data were analysed by IBM SPSS‐Statistics 22.

Results

Results showed that, in the beginning of the first professional nursing course, both students in the BSN and the ABSN programmes reported similar level of professional values. However, after one academic year, the changes in the professional value varied both between these two programmes and among the three different nursing schools. The increased professional value in school A represented the possibility for students to improve during their first‐year professional nursing programme. As educators, we should redesign our teaching strategies according to the different conditions of students in each programme.
Improving the galvanic contact resistance for geoelectrical measurements in debris areas: A case study
Authors: Pavoni Mirko , Carrera Alberto , Boaga Jacopo
Published: December 2021

This paper aims to test, in a quantitative way, the different approaches that can be applied to improve the contact resistance problem in a debris environment for the acquisition of electrical resistivity tomography. We collected various datasets on the same investigation line in a blocky ground surface of a landslide deposit, using different coupling systems: single electrodes placed between the boulders, adding extra electrodes in parallel and drilled single electrodes inside the blocks. We performed the measurements in natural dry conditions, then we added salt water nearby the electrodes hammered among the boulders and we filled the drilled holes with a conductive carbomer‐based gel. The results clearly demonstrate that using salt water significantly reduces the contact resistances, but also that, if salt water is not available, we can collect a good quality dataset in dry conditions by connecting more electrodes in parallel. Drilling the electrodes directly inside the boulders decreases the data quality but, if necessary, we demonstrate that the use of a commercial carbon polymer gel can provide a marked improvement in contact resistances.
The molecular basis for the development of adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma in patients with an IRF4K59R mutation
Authors: Sundararaj Srinivasan , Seneviratne Sandali , Williams Simon J , Enders Anselm , Casarotto Marco G.
Published: December 2021

Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is an essential regulator in the development of many immune cells, including B‐ and T‐cells and has been implicated directly in numerous hematological malignancies, including adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL). Recently, an activating mutation in the DNA‐binding domain of IRF4 (IRF4K59R) was found as a recurrent somatic mutation in ATLL patients. However, it remains unknown how this mutation gives rise to the observed oncogenic effect. To understand the mode of IRF4K59R‐mediated gain of function in ATLL pathogenesis, we have determined the structural and affinity basis of IRF4K59R/DNA homodimer complex using X‐ray crystallography and surface plasmon resonance. Our study shows that arginine substitution (R59) results in the reorientation of the side chain, enabling the guanidium group to interact with the phosphate backbone of the DNA helix. This markedly contrasts with the IRF4WT wherein the K59 interacts exclusively with DNA bases. Further, the arginine mutation causes enhanced DNA bending, enabling the IRF4K59R to interact more robustly with known DNA targets, as evidenced by increased binding affinity of the protein–DNA complex. Together, we demonstrate how key structural features underpin the basis for this activating mutation, thereby providing a molecular rationale for IRF4K59R‐mediated ATLL development.
Rapid directed molecular evolution of fluorescent proteins in mammalian cells
Authors: Babakhanova Siranush , Jung Erica E. , Namikawa Kazuhiko , Zhang Hanbin , Wang Yangdong , Subach Oksana M. , Korzhenevskiy Dmitry A. , Rakitina Tatiana V. , Xiao Xian , Wang Wenjing , Shi Jing , Drobizhev Mikhail , Park Demian , Eisenhard Lea , Tang Hongyun , Köster Reinhard W. , Subach Fedor V. , Boyden Edward S. , Piatkevich Kiryl D.
Published: December 2021

In vivo imaging of model organisms is heavily reliant on fluorescent proteins with high intracellular brightness. Here we describe a practical method for rapid optimization of fluorescent proteins via directed molecular evolution in cultured mammalian cells. Using this method, we were able to perform screening of large gene libraries containing up to 2 × 107 independent random genes of fluorescent proteins expressed in HEK cells, completing one iteration of directed evolution in a course of 8 days. We employed this approach to develop a set of green and near‐infrared fluorescent proteins with enhanced intracellular brightness. The developed near‐infrared fluorescent proteins demonstrated high performance for fluorescent labeling of neurons in culture and in vivo in model organisms such as Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, zebrafish, and mice. Spectral properties of the optimized near‐infrared fluorescent proteins enabled crosstalk‐free multicolor imaging in combination with common green and red fluorescent proteins, as well as dual‐color near‐infrared fluorescence imaging. The described method has a great potential to be adopted by protein engineers due to its simplicity and practicality. We also believe that the new enhanced fluorescent proteins will find wide application for in vivo multicolor imaging of small model organisms.
Minimum sample size calculations for external validation of a clinical prediction model with a time‐to‐event outcome
Authors: Riley Richard D. , Collins Gary S. , Ensor Joie , Archer Lucinda , Booth Sarah , Mozumder Sarwar I. , Rutherford Mark J. , van Smeden Maarten , Lambert Paul C. , Snell Kym I. E.
Published: December 2021

Previous articles in Statistics in Medicine describe how to calculate the sample size required for external validation of prediction models with continuous and binary outcomes. The minimum sample size criteria aim to ensure precise estimation of key measures of a model's predictive performance, including measures of calibration, discrimination, and net benefit. Here, we extend the sample size guidance to prediction models with a time‐to‐event (survival) outcome, to cover external validation in datasets containing censoring. A simulation‐based framework is proposed, which calculates the sample size required to target a particular confidence interval width for the calibration slope measuring the agreement between predicted risks (from the model) and observed risks (derived using pseudo‐observations to account for censoring) on the log cumulative hazard scale. Precise estimation of calibration curves, discrimination, and net‐benefit can also be checked in this framework. The process requires assumptions about the validation population in terms of the (i) distribution of the model's linear predictor and (ii) event and censoring distributions. Existing information can inform this; in particular, the linear predictor distribution can be approximated using the C‐index or Royston's D statistic from the model development article, together with the overall event risk. We demonstrate how the approach can be used to calculate the sample size required to validate a prediction model for recurrent venous thromboembolism. Ideally the sample size should ensure precise calibration across the entire range of predicted risks, but must at least ensure adequate precision in regions important for clinical decision‐making. Stata and R code are provided.
The Bipolar Mode of One‐Step Plasma Electrochemical Synthesis of Few Layer Graphene Structures Decorated with Transition Metal Oxides
Authors: Krivenko Alexander G. , Manzhos Roman A. , Fishgoit Larisa A. , Kochergin Valeriy K.
Published: December 2021

We present the method of conjugated bipolar plasma electrochemical synthesis of aqueous suspensions of composites of few‐layer graphene structures with Co3O4 and Mn3O4 oxides and creation of mixed electrocatalysts based on them. As shown by the rotating disk electrode method, the best catalytic activity towards oxygen reduction reaction exceeding that for each individual component is demonstrated by the composition containing equal amounts of these composites.
Synthesis of α‐Sulfonyl Ketones through a Salicylic Acid‐Catalyzed Multicomponent Reaction Involving Arylsulfonation and Oxidation
Authors: Sakkani Nagaraju , Jakkampudi Satish , Sadiq Nouraan , Zhao John C.‐G.
Published: December 2021

The direct synthesis of α‐sulfonyl ketones was accomplished by a multicomponent reaction of styrene derivatives, anilines, t‐butyl nitrite, 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane‐sulfur dioxide (DABSO), and oxygen catalyzed by salicylic acid. The aryl radicals generated from aniline derivatives and t‐butyl nitrite under the catalysis of salicylic acid was sulfonylated by DABSO to generate the arylsulfonyl radicals, which reacted further with styrenes, and then oxidized by oxygen to give the title compounds. Under the optimized conditions, the title compounds were obtained in good yields at ambient temperature within 1.5–2 h.
Multifunctional Immunoliposomes Enhance the Immunotherapeutic Effects of PD‐L1 Antibodies against Melanoma by Reprogramming Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Hei Yu , Chen Yang , Li Qian , Mei Zi , Pan Jijia , Zhang Siqi , Xiong Chunyang , Su Xiaodong , Wei Shicheng
Published: December 2021

The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) can significantly limit the immunotherapeutic effects of the PD‐L1 antibody (aPDL1) by inhibiting the infiltration of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) into the tumor tissues. However, how to reprogram the immunosuppressive TME and promote the infiltration of CTLs remains a huge challenge for aPDL1 to achieve the maximum benefits. Herein, the authors design a multifunctional immunoliposome that encapsulates the adrenergic receptor blocker carvedilol (CAR) and connects the “don't eat me” signal antibody (aCD47) and aPDL1 in series via a reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐sensitive linker on the surface. In ROS‐enriched immunosuppressive TME, the multifunctional immunoliposome (CAR@aCD47/aPDL1‐SSL) can first release the outer aCD47 to block the “do not eat me” pathway, promote the phagocytosis of tumor cells by phagocytic cells, and activate CTLs. Then, the aPDL1 on the liposome surface is exposed to block the PD‐1/PD‐L1 signaling pathway, thereby inducing CTLs to kill tumor cells. CAR encapsulated in CAR@aCD47/aPDL1‐SSL can block the adrenergic nerves in the tumor tissues and reduce their densities, thereby inhibiting angiogenesis in the tumor tissues and reprogramming the immunosuppressive TME. According to the results, CAR@aCD47/aPDL1‐SSL holds an effective way to reprogram the immunosuppressive TME and significantly enhance immunotherapeutic efficiency of aPDL1 against the primary cancer and metastasis.
Application and Development of Shape Memory Micro/Nano Patterns
Authors: Li Wenbing , Liu Junhao , Chen Lei , Wei Wanting , Qian Kun , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: December 2021

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a class of smart materials that change shape when stimulated by environmental stimuli. Different from the shape memory effect at the macro level, the introduction of micro‐patterning technology into SMPs strengthens the exploration of the shape memory effect at the micro/nano level. The emergence of shape memory micro/nano patterns provides a new direction for the future development of smart polymers, and their applications in the fields of biomedicine/textile/micro‐optics/adhesives show huge potential. In this review, the authors introduce the types of shape memory micro/nano patterns, summarize the preparation methods, then explore the imminent and potential applications in various fields. In the end, their shortcomings and future development direction are also proposed.
Sympathetic Neurostress Drives Osteoblastic Exosomal MiR‐21 Transfer to Disrupt Bone Homeostasis and Promote Osteopenia
Authors: Hu Cheng‐Hu , Sui Bing‐Dong , Liu Jin , Dang Lei , Chen Ji , Zheng Chen‐Xi , Shi Songtao , Zhao Na , Dang Min‐Yan , He Xiao‐Ning , Zhang Li‐Qiang , Gao Ping‐Ping , Chen Nan , Kuang Hui‐Juan , Chen Kai , Xu Xiao‐Lin , Yu Xiao‐Rui , Zhang Ge , Jin Yan
Published: December 2021

Innervation and extracellular vesicle secretion co‐exist in the local tissue microenvironment for message transfer, but whether they are interconnected to regulate organ homeostasis remains unknown. Sympatho‐adrenergic activation is implicated in stress‐induced depression and leads to bone loss, but the mechanisms and therapeutics are incompletely elucidated. Here, it is revealed that sympathetic neurostress through the β1/2‐adrenergic receptor (β1/2‐AR) signaling triggers the transcription response of a microRNA, miR‐21, in osteoblasts, which is transferred to osteoclast progenitors via exosomes for dictating osteoclastogenesis. After confirming that miR‐21 deficiency retards the β1/2‐AR agonist isoproterenol (ISO)‐induced osteopenia, it is shown that the pharmacological inhibition of exosome release by two clinically‐relevant drugs, dimethyl amiloride and omeprazole, suppresses osteoblastic miR‐21 transfer and ameliorates bone loss under both ISO and chronic variable stress (CVS)‐induced depression conditions. A targeted delivery approach to specifically silence osteoblastic miR‐21 is further applied, which is effective in rescuing the bone remodeling balance and ameliorating ISO‐ and CVS‐induced osteopenias. These results decipher a previously unrecognized paradigm that neural cues drive exosomal microRNA communication to regulate organ homeostasis and help to establish feasible strategies to counteract bone loss under psychological stresses.
Single and binary effects of di‐2‐ethylhexyl phthalate and trace metals (Cd, Pb) on life‐history traits ofDaphnia magna
Authors: Le Thi‐Phuong‐Dung , Nguyen Van‐Tai , Bui Manh‐Ha , Huynh Trong‐Nhan , Huynh Anh‐Thu , Tran Vinh‐Quang , Vo Thi‐My‐Chi , Tran Thanh , Dao Thanh‐Son
Published: December 2021

In this study, the life trait responses of a model toxicity zooplankton,Daphnia magna, to single di‐2‐ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and its mixture with Pb and Cd at environmentally relevant concentrations (50 µg L–1for DEHP, 4.2 µg L–1for Pb, and 5.4 µg L–1for Cd) were investigated. The DEHP did not impact the survival rate, maturation and reproduction ofD. magna. However, in the binary exposures ofD. magnato DEHP and the metals, the organisms severely suffered from high mortality proportion, from 70% to 100%. The mixtures of DEHP, Pb, and DEHP with the two metals caused the significant maturation postponement of theD. magna. Besides, motherD. magnaexposed to the mixtures of DEHP and metals produced much lower relatives of the accumulative offspring number, from 3.7% to 77.7%, compared to the control. Energy cost would be the root of the impairment. The combined effects of DEHP and metals in the present study help provide more environmentally realistic toxicity of the pollutants than a single one to the freshwater cladoceranD. magnawhich have been understudied. The results suggest that DEHP should be included in the Vietnam safety guidelines (QCVN) for water monitoring.
Co‐Creating Multilingual Books with Children to Foster Their Literacies
Authors: Harris Pauline , Camaitoga Ufemia , Brock Cynthia H. , Diamond Alexandra , McInnes Elspeth , Neill Bec
Published: December 2021

This article describes how young children and their families and community members came together with researchers to co‐create books in children's languages about their worlds in Fiji, to foster children's multilingual literacies. The co‐creation of these books in children's and families’ Fijian homes and community settings connected with their voices, languages, and literacies, to ensure both the books and the processes for co‐creating them would be culturally sustaining and effective for children's multilingual literacy growth. Among the research team here, two were based in Fiji and the rest were based in Australia. We learned many lessons in our journey from preschools and classrooms in Australia to children's homes and communities in Fiji, which we bring back to share with teachers internationally through The Reading Teacher.
Consider lessons on efficiency learned from COVID‐19
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2021

AVENTURA, Fla. — When the COVID‐19 pandemic hit, it created challenges for Registrar's Offices. But at Loma Linda University, it also created opportunities to improve efficiency as staff members responded to those challenges. “Business as usual became business unusual,” said Ismari Altamirano, Associate Director of University Records.
Time‐effectiveness and convenience of transvaginal ultrasound probe disinfection using ultraviolet vs chlorine dioxide multistep wipe system: prospective survey study
Authors: Kyriacou C. , Robinson E. , Barcroft J. , Parker N. , Tuomey M. , Stalder C. , Gould D. , Al‐Memar M. , Bourne T.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To compare the efficiency, ease of use and user satisfaction of two methods of transvaginal ultrasound probe high‐level disinfection: ultraviolet‐C radiation (UV‐C) and a chlorine dioxide multistep wipe system.

Methods

This was a prospective survey study. UV‐C units were introduced into a busy early pregnancy assessment service and compared with a multiwipe system for disinfection. Before seeing each patient, healthcare professionals (HCPs) measured with a stopwatch the time taken to complete a cycle of disinfection using either UV‐C or chlorine dioxide multistep wipes and responded to a quick‐response (QR) code‐linked survey. Additional essential tasks that could be completed before seeing the next patient during probe disinfection were also documented. Using another QR code‐linked survey, data on ease of use, satisfaction with the system used and preferred system were collected. The ease of use and satisfaction with the system were rated on a 0 to 10 Likert scale (0 poor, 10 excellent). A free‐text section for comments was then completed.

Results

Disinfection using UV‐C (n = 331) was 60% faster than the chlorine dioxide multiwipe system (n = 332) (101 vs 250 s; P < 0.0001). A greater number of tasks were completed during probe disinfection when using UV‐C, saving a further 74 s per patient (P < 0.0001). The HCPs using UV‐C (n = 71) reported greater ease of use (median Likert score, 10 vs 3; P < 0.0001) and satisfaction (median Likert score, 10 vs 2; P < 0.0001) compared with those using the multiwipe system (n = 43). HCPs reported that the chlorine dioxide system was time‐consuming and environmentally unfriendly, while the UV‐C system was efficient and easy to use. Overall, 98% of the HCPs preferred using the UV‐C system.

Conclusions

UV‐C technology is more time‐efficient and allows more essential tasks to be completed during disinfection. For a 4‐h ultrasound list of 15 patients, the use of UV‐C would save 55 min 45 s. HCPs found UV‐C preferable and easier to use. © 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.