bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An empirically based power primer for laboratory aggression research
Authors: Hyatt Courtland S. , Crowe Michael L. , West Samuel J. , Vize Colin E. , Carter Nathan T. , Chester David S. , Miller Joshua D.
Published: October 2021

Recent reviews suggest that, like much of the psychological literature, research studies using laboratory aggression paradigms tend to be underpowered to reliably locate commonly observed effect sizes (e.g., r = ~.10–.20, Cohen's d = ~0.20–0.40). In an effort to counter this trend, we provide a “power primer” that laboratory aggression researchers can use as a resource when planning studies using this methodology. Using simulation‐based power analyses and effect size estimates derived from recent literature reviews, we provide sample size recommendations based on type of research question (e.g., main effect vs. two‐way vs. three‐way interactions) and correlations among predictors. Results highlight the large number of participants that must be recruited to reach acceptable (~80%) power, especially for tests of interactions where the recommended sample sizes far exceed those typically employed in this literature. These discrepancies are so substantial that we urge laboratory aggression researchers to consider a moratorium on tests of three‐way interactions. Although our results use estimates from the laboratory aggression literature, we believe they are generalizable to other lines of research using behavioral tasks, as well as psychological science more broadly. We close by offering a series of best practice recommendations and reiterating long‐standing calls for attention to statistical power as a basic element of study planning.
Distributed cooperative neural control of a class of nonlinear multi‐agent systems with unknown time‐varying control coefficient
Authors: Li Xiaojie , Wang Yiguang
Published: October 2021

This article studies the leader–follower cooperative tracking problem of a class of multi‐agent systems with unknown nonlinear dynamics. As the load of the following agent may be changing throughout the whole work process, we consider the control coefficient of the following agent to be time‐varying and nonlinear instead of constant, which is more practical. All agents are connected by the directed communication graph with weighted topology. The followers can have unknown nonidentical nonlinear dynamics and external disturbances. The nonautonomous leader generates the reference trajectory for only part of the followers and others can only receive the information from their neighbors. To achieve the ultimate synchronization of all following agents to the leader, the novel cooperative adaptive control protocols are designed based on the neural approximation and adaptive updating mechanism. A novel singularity‐avoided adaptive updating law is proposed to estimate the control coefficient and compensate for the unknown dynamics online. Lyapunov theory is used to prove the ultimate boundedness of the synchronization tracking error. The correctness and effectiveness of the presented control scheme are demonstrated by two simulations in SISO and MIMO cases, respectively.
Revamping Lithium–Sulfur Batteries for High Cell‐Level Energy Density by Synergistic Utilization of Polysulfide Additives and Artificial Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase Layers
Authors: Wu Peng , Dong Mingxin , Tan Jian , Kang Dongyun Aiden , Yu Choongho
Published: October 2021

Despite the high theoretical capacity of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, a high cell‐level energy density and a long cycling life are barely achieved, mainly due to the large electrolyte‐to‐sulfur ratio, polysulfide (PS) shuttle causing the loss of active sulfur, and the formation of passivation layers on the Li anode. To raise the energy density, holding PS in the cathode has been the most popular approach. Still, it has failed, particularly, when the sulfur loading is high enough to have energy densities similar to those of commercial Li‐ion batteries. Here, a practical approach of achieving high “cell‐level” energy densities is attempted using lithium PS (LPS)‐containing electrolytes instead of a pure electrolyte, reducing the electrolyte‐to‐sulfur ratio and PS diffusion out of the cathode due to concentration differences. Meanwhile, the persistent problems including PS passivation and Li dendrites are suppressed using Li2S‐phobic artificial solid‐electrolyte interphase (A‐SEI) layers on Li metal. The synergistic effects from the LPS additives and A‐SEI result in a superior cell‐level volumetric energy density of 650 Wh L−1 as well as large cumulative energy densities considering cycling life. This approach provides an important stepping stone to realize commercial Li–S batteries rivaling the current Li‐ion batteries.
Loading Single‐Ni Atoms on Assembled Hollow N‐Rich Carbon Plates for Efficient CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Li Yunxiang , Zhang Song Lin , Cheng Weiren , Chen Ye , Luan Deyan , Gao Shuyan , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: October 2021

The rational design of catalysts’ spatial structure is vitally important to boost catalytic performance through exposing the active sites, enhancing the mass transfer, and confining the reactants. Herein, a dual‐linker zeolitic tetrazolate framework‐engaged strategy is developed to construct assembled hollow plates (AHP) of N‐rich carbon (NC), which is loaded with single‐Ni atoms to form a highly efficient electrocatalyst (designated as Ni‐NC(AHP)). In the carbonization process, the thermally unstable linker (5‐aminotetrazole) serves as the self‐sacrificial template and the other linker (2‐methylimidazole) mainly serves as the carbon and nitrogen source to form hollow NC matrix. The formed Ni‐NC(AHP) catalyst possesses enhanced mesoporosity and more available surface area, thus promoting mass transport and affording abundant accessible single‐Ni sites. These features contribute to remarkable performance for electrochemical CO2 reduction with exceptionally high selectivity of nearly 100% towards CO in a wide potential range and dramatically enhanced CO partial current density.
Digital Light Processing Based Bioprinting with Composable Gradients
Authors: Wang Mian , Li Wanlu , Mille Luis S. , Ching Terry , Luo Zeyu , Tang Guosheng , Garciamendez Carlos Ezio , Lesha Ami , Hashimoto Michinao , Zhang Yu Shrike
Published: October 2021

Recapitulation of complex tissues signifies a remarkable challenge and, to date, only a few approaches have emerged that can efficiently reconstruct necessary gradients in 3D constructs. This is true even though mimicry of these gradients is of great importance to establish the functionality of engineered tissues and devices. Here, a composable‐gradient Digital Light Processing (DLP)‐based (bio)printing system is developed, utilizing the unprecedented integration of a microfluidic mixer for the generation of either continual or discrete gradients of desired (bio)inks in real time. Notably, the precisely controlled gradients are composable on‐the‐fly by facilely by adjusting the (bio)ink flow ratios. In addition, this setup is designed in such a way that (bio)ink waste is minimized when exchanging the gradient (bio)inks, further enhancing this time‐ and (bio)ink‐saving strategy. Various planar and 3D structures exhibiting continual gradients of materials, of cell densities, of growth factor concentrations, of hydrogel stiffness, and of porosities in horizontal and/or vertical direction, are exemplified. The composable fabrication of multifunctional gradients strongly supports the potential of the unique bioprinting system in numerous biomedical applications.
Solvent‐Free Mussel‐Inspired Adhesive with Rapid Underwater Curing Capability
Authors: Xia Guozheng , Lin Mei , Jiayu Yi , Jinkang Hu , Bowen Li , Mu Youbing , Wan Xiaobo
Published: October 2021

How to realize fast and strong underwater adhesion has gained much attention recently. Although some mussel‐inspired adhesives that can be cured underwater have been reported, reports on underwater adhesion with both high bonding strength and rapid curing capability are still rare. Furthermore, organic solvents are generally utilized in these adhesives, which are eco‐unfriendly. Here, by taking advantages of the strong underwater adhesion capability of catecholic groups in mussel adhesion proteins (MAPs) and the fast curing capability of polyurethane (PU) prepolymer, a facile yet powerful strategy towards a fast‐curing mussel‐inspired underwater adhesive is reported. The biomimetic adhesive, PUP‐PPG‐DBHP, is a liquid composed of isocyanate‐terminated polypropylene glycol (PPG) and isocyanate‐terminated dopamine bis(hydroxymethyl)propionate (DBHP), which can be directly applied underwater without solvent dilution and reach an average bonding strength around 1.2 MPa at a curing time of only around 30 s on glass substrates. Meanwhile, underwater curing process of PUP‐PPG‐DBHP shows good tolerance toward pH value, ionic strength, and temperature change. Such an engineering adhesive opens an innovative and facile route to a feasible solution for underwater engineering field.
Superior Performance and Stability of 2D Dion–Jacobson Halide Perovskite Photodetectors Operated under Harsh Conditions without Encapsulation
Authors: Lai Zhengxun , Wang Fei , Meng You , Bu Xiuming , Kang Xiaolin , Quan Quan , Wang Wei , Liu Chuntai , Yip SenPo , Ho Johnny C.
Published: October 2021

The practical utilization of electronic and optoelectronic materials such as perovskites not only relies on their good device performance and moisture stability but also requires stability under other operating conditions. Herein, the operational stability of the Dion–Jacobson perovskite (DJP) photodetector under different harsh conditions is carefully studied and compared with that of its widely studied counterpart, i.e., the Ruddlesden–Popper perovskite (RPP) photodetector. The DJP‐based photodetector can maintain its responsivity after storage in humid environments for two months and can ensure stable operation without any photocurrent degradation under continuous light illumination for 20 000 s. Moreover, the DJP film does not exhibit any changes in its absorbance spectrum and surface morphology when it is heated at 100 °C for 18 h, and the film is hardly affected by high‐energy electron beam irradiation. In addition, the mechanical stability of the DJP film is also found to be superior based on the cyclic bending measurements of the fabricated flexible photodetectors. The excellent performance and stability of the DJP‐based photodetector are found to be the result of the elimination of weak van der Waals bonds among the octahedral PbI4 layers of DJP films, which is typically observed in RPP films.
Cytoplasmic NEAT1 Suppresses AML Stem Cell Self‐Renewal and Leukemogenesis through Inactivation of Wnt Signaling
Authors: Yan Huiwen , Wang Zhi , Sun Yao , Hu Liangding , Bu Pengcheng
Published: October 2021

As an essential component of paraspeckles, nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) localizes in the nucleus, promoting progression of various malignant solid tumors. Herein, an adverse effect of NEAT1 is reported, showing that the short isoform, NEAT1_1 suppresses acute myeloid leukemia (AML) development. NEAT1_1 is downregulated in leukemia stem cells (LSCs) and its decreased expression correlates with recurrence in AML patients. It is demonstrated that NEAT1_1 suppresses leukemogenesis and LSC function but is dispensable for normal hematopoiesis. Mechanistically, NEAT1_1 is released from the nucleus into the cytoplasm of AML cells, regulated by transcription factor C/EBPβ and nuclear protein NAP1L1. Cytoplasmic NEAT1_1 interacts with Wnt component DVL2 and E3 ubiquitin ligase Trim56, facilitates Trim56‐mediated DVL2 degradation, and thus suppresses Wnt signaling. Collectively, the findings show NEAT1_1 is translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and acts as a tumor suppressor in AML.
Poly (ε‐caprolactone)‐based porous membranes for filtration applications—effect of solvents on precipitation kinetics, performance, and morphology
Authors: Manholi Smitha , Athiyanathil Sujith
Published: October 2021

This work presents fabrication, precipitation kinetics, morphological analysis, and permeation performance of poly (ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) phase inversion membrane, which is a biodegradable polymer. Asymmetric membranes of PCL were fabricated by nonsolvent‐induced phase inversion method using different casting solvents. The effect of casting solvents on the precipitation kinetics, membrane morphology, and performance for filtration applications was studied. Solvents selected based on Hansen solubility parameter value were N,N‐dimethyl formamide, N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone, tetrahydrofuran, triethyl phosphate, 1,4‐dioxane, and acetone. Ternary phase diagram constructed by cloud point measurement described the precipitation kinetics and thermodynamics of the phase inversion. The fabricated membranes were characterized by its thermal, mechanical, and morphology studies. Permeation performance of the prepared membranes was analyzed by studying its equilibrium water content, porosity, and pure water flux. Morphology analysis of membranes showed porous asymmetric structure and spongy to finger like morphology in different solvents. Cloud point measurement showed different precipitation kinetics in each solvent leading to different morphological features to the polymer membranes. Size of the pores of all these membranes determined using the Guerout–Elford–Ferry equation suggests application of these membranes for microfiltration process.
Comparative characterization of gum rosins for their use as sustainable additives in polymeric matrices
Authors: Pavon Cristina , Aldas Miguel , Hernández‐Fernández Joaquín , López‐Martínez Juan
Published: October 2021

There is a growing interest in the use of non‐polluting compounds, which come from renewable sources, and which performance in their scope is equivalent to their synthetic similes. In this work, five types of rosins from different sources were studied, verifying the existence of differences that can be inferred in their subsequent use and application as material additives. For the study, rosins were analyzed using gas‐mass chromatographic techniques, infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and color characterization. The results showed that the samples are composed of either abietic acid or by its structural isomers in contents higher than 80%. FTIR shows that the main difference in the gum rosins is related to the proclivity to absorb environmental moisture and that this technique is not enough to differentiate them. Moreover, the DSC reveals that the gum rosins present enthalpy relaxation effects due to their manufacturing process. The TGA showed that gum rosins are thermally stable until 200°C, therefore they can be successfully blended with thermoplastic polymers. Finally, the color characterization shows little differences between the samples, being CA the gum rosin with the greatest total color differences.
Self‐sorted Compartmentalization by Simultaneous Use of Natural and Synthetic Amphiphiles
Authors: Park Kyeng Min
Published: October 2021

Exploiting the orthogonal molecular interactions of natural (phospholipids) and synthetic (mono‐allyloxylated cucurbit[7]uril) amphiphiles to form their own vesicles, the formation of two different types of compartments in a self‐sorted manner mimicking cellular compartments is demonstrated. Even after simultaneous extrusion of both vesicles through small pore membranes, which transformed them into smaller vesicles, both vesicles were not fused but still appeared as independent compartments in sucrose solution. The simultaneous use of natural and synthetic amphiphiles, forming independent compartments, holds great potential for in‐depth investigation of self‐sorted multi‐compartments and their structures as prototype cells.
Highly Diastereoselective Synthesis of Dihydro‐benzoimidazo‐[1,3]‐thiazines via Electro‐oxidative Selenocyclization of Thioallyl Benzoimidazoles
Authors: Halder Atreyee , Mahanty Kingshuk , Maiti Debabrata , De Sarkar Suman
Published: October 2021

The current methodology reveals a green and proficient electro‐oxidative tandem selenocyclization of thioallyl benzoimidazoles manufacturing selenylated dihydro‐benzoimidazo‐thiazine derivatives. Both C−Se and C−N bond formation were achieved via this mild protocol which exhibits good functional group tolerability affording an extensive range of substrate scope up to 96% isolated yields. Complete control over the regioselective formation of the six‐membered heterocycle and stereoselective construction of the contiguous stereocenters was established. The practical electrochemical method operates in an undivided cell at ambient temperature without using any metal and external chemical oxidant.
Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substance removal in carbon‐based advanced treatment for potable reuse
Authors: Kumar Pranjali , Rodriguez‐Gonzalez Laura , Salveson Andrew , Ammerman David , Steinle‐Darling Eva
Published: October 2021

The persistence of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in wastewater effluent highlights the need for active monitoring and targeted removal of these compounds in potable reuse applications. The City of Altamonte Springs' permanent potable reuse demonstration facility, pureALTA, employs a carbon‐based advanced treatment process using multiple treatment barriers to provide potable water that meets state and federal regulatory requirements and health guidelines for unregulated contaminants. The combination of ozonation, biological activated carbon filtration (BAC), ultrafiltration (UF), granular activated carbon adsorption (GAC), and UV advanced oxidation process (UV AOP) showed complete removal of long‐chain PFAAs (perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids with ≥6 carbons and perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids with ≥7 carbons) with federal health guidelines, such as perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate in the advanced treated water while maintaining total organic carbon (TOC) levels below 3 mg/L, the regulatory limit in Florida for indirect potable reuse. Ozone, BAC, and UF showed increases in PFAAs to varying levels based on the transformation of precursors. GAC was the critical process for both TOC and PFAA removal; as anticipated GAC media's age defined the extent of removal of short‐chain PFAAs such as perfluoropentanoic acid and perfluorohexanoic acid. Because of regulatory limits on TOC in Florida potable reuse projects and the absence of regulations on short‐chain PFAAs, TOC continues to dictate GAC media change‐out frequency and operating cost. However, the performance control strategy for GAC at pureALTA may change if stringent limits are set for short‐chain PFAAs in the future. As of May 2021, pureALTA has been in operation for more than 4 years and continues to operate, providing an opportunity for continued research and community engagement.

Article Impact Statement

The study represents the first pilot‐scale evaluation of perfluoroalkyl acid removal and correlation to total organic carbon in a carbon‐based advanced treatment process for potable reuse in Florida.
Interaction of remimazolam benzenesulfonate and human serum albumin: a simulated physiological study
Authors: Zhu Yulin , Li Chen , Yu Jingui , Yu Lingzhi , Shao Wei , Shang Shujun
Published: October 2021

Here, to elucidate the interaction mechanism and physicochemical properties of remimazolam and human serum albumin interactions, techniques such as fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and isothermal titration calorimetry have been applied for study. The thermodynamic parameters at body temperature (ΔS = −207 J·mol−1·K−1, ΔS = −9.76 × 104 J·mol−1 and ΔG = −3.34 × 104 J·mol−1; 310 K) manifests one strong binding site on the protein, which was modulated by van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds. What is more, the results of CD, synchronous and three‐dimensional fluorescence showed that remimazolam altered the microenvironment of the protein amino acid residues. A distance of 2.1 nm between the remimazolam and Trp shows the potential for resonance energy transfer. Furthermore, these results potentially provide information for illustrating the pharmacodynamics and toxicodynamics of remimazolam when it is applied clinically.
Reactive oxygen species as a double‐edged sword: The role of oxidative enzymes in antitumor therapy
Authors: Rosini Elena , Pollegioni Loredano
Published: October 2021

A number of approaches have been developed over the years to manage cancer, such as chemotherapy using low‐molecular‐mass molecules and radiotherapy. Here, enzymes can also find useful applications. Among them, oxidases have attracted attention because of their ability to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS, especially hydrogen peroxide) in tumors and potentially modulate the production of this cytotoxic compound when enzymes active on substrates present in low amounts are used, such as the d‐amino acid oxidase and d‐amino acid couple system. These treatments have been also developed for additional cancer treatment approaches, such as phototherapy, nutrient starvation, and metal‐induced hydroxyl radical production. In addition, to improve tumor specificity and decrease undesired side effects, oxidases have been targeted by means of nanotechnologies and protein engineering (i.e., by designing chimeric proteins able to accumulate in the tumor). The most recent advances obtained by using six different oxidases (i.e., the FAD‐containing enzymes glucose oxidase, d‐ and l‐amino acid oxidases, cholesterol oxidase and xanthine oxidase, and the copper‐containing amine oxidase) have been reported. Anticancer therapy based on oxidase‐based ROS production has now reached maturity and can be applied in the clinic.
Online anatomy team‐based learning using blackboard collaborate platform during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Al‐Neklawy Ahmed Farid , Ismail Amira Salem Alsagheer
Published: October 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, many educational institutions followed the blended learning system. Using the participants' opinions, we evaluated the Blackboard (Bb) collaborate platform for online team‐based learning (TBL) sessions for undergraduate students from different medical programs in the KSA. The participants were students on the MBBS Program (157 year two and 149 year three), together with 53 students in year one of the Nursing Program, 25 in year two of the Doctor of Pharmacy Program, and 11 in year two of the Medical Laboratory Sciences Program in Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, (FCMS) KSA. To assess students' recall, engagement, and satisfaction with the sessions, an online TBL plan was designed and reviewed by the Medical Education Department. The students completed an online survey at the end of each session. All responses in this study showed a statistically significant positive difference from the neutral mid‐point response (p < 0.05), reflecting high satisfaction. In the MBBS Program, the survey was completed by 40 students in year two and 76 in year three. The mean responses were 4.1 ± 0.3 and 3.9 ± 0.2 respectively (mean ± SD). In the BSN Program, 19 students completed the survey. The mean response was 4.6 ± 0.2. In the Pharm D Program, 10 students completed the survey. The mean response was 4.9 ± 0.12. In the MLS Program, eight students completed the survey. The mean response was 4.8 ± 0.12. It was concluded that online TBL using Bb collaborate is a successful anatomy‐learning tool among FCMS students on different programs.
Model‐based automatic grading of object‐oriented programming assignments
Authors: Le Duc Minh
Published: October 2021

Automatic grading of object‐oriented programming (OOP) assignments is an important problem from practical, theoretical, and educational viewpoints. Apart from computing a specific grade, an effective grading method needs to provide systematic feedback comments to both the design and code elements. Existing works have proposed grading methods that make various assumptions about the design. However, none of these methods have considered using a design language for the program model. A challenge here is to use a language that eases learning and application in program design. In this paper, we propose a novel grading method, named OOPGRADER, which automatically grades OOP assignments constructed based on an essentially detailed program model. This model is defined in an embedded design language, which directly uses the annotation feature of OOP language to express the essential design rules. We explain how programming assignments can be designed with this language and propose a program checker and a grader for both student and teacher to use in working on the assignments and in grading them. We implement these components in a tool and develop an Eclipse plugin for this tool. We evaluate our method using a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques. The main result is that our method helps students effectively learn to program through detailed feedback comments based on a program model. The tool is adaptable, has a good performance, and helps enhance the productivity of both students and teachers through IDE integration.
Identification of a glycolysis‐related gene signature for survival prediction of ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Zhang Dai , Li Yiche , Yang Si , Wang Meng , Yao Jia , Zheng Yi , Deng Yujiao , Li Na , Wei Bajin , Wu Ying , Zhai Zhen , Dai Zhijun , Kang Huafeng
Published: October 2021

Background

Ovarian cancer (OV) is deemed the most lethal gynecological cancer in women. The aim of this study was to construct an effective gene prognostic model for predicting overall survival (OS) in patients with OV.

Methods

The expression profiles of glycolysis‐related genes (GRGs) and clinical data of patients with OV were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Univariate, multivariate, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analyses were conducted, and a prognostic signature based on GRGs was constructed. The predictive ability of the signature was analyzed using training and test sets.

Results

A gene risk signature based on nine GRGs (ISG20, CITED2, PYGB, IRS2, ANGPTL4, TGFBI, LHX9, PC, and DDIT4) was identified to predict the survival outcome of patients with OV. The signature showed a good prognostic ability for OV, particularly high‐grade OV, in the TCGA dataset, with areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.709 and 0.762 for 3‐ and 5‐year survival, respectively. Similar results were found in the test sets, and the AUCs of 3‐, 5‐year OS were 0.714 and 0.772 in the combined test set. And our signature was an independent prognostic factor. Moreover, a nomogram combining the prediction model and clinical factors was developed.

Conclusion

Our study established a nine‐GRG risk model and nomogram to better predict OS in patients with OV. The risk model represents a promising and independent prognostic predictor for patients with OV. Moreover, our study on GRGs could offer guidance for the elucidation of underlying mechanisms in future studies.
Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Enhancement of Antibiotic Action by Punica granatum Leaves Crude Extract and Enriched Fraction against Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria
Authors: de Lima Liliane Bezerra , da Silva Wliana Alves Viturino , dos Santos Ewelyn Cintya Felipe , Machado Janaína Carla Barbosa , Procópio Thamara Figueiredo , de Moura Maiara Celine , Napoleão Thiago Henrique , Ferreira Magda Rhayanny Assunção , Soares Luiz Alberto Lira
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial potential of crude extract and fractions of Punica granatum leaves. The extract was produced by turbo extraction, after which hexanic, ethyl acetate, and aqueous fractions were obtained by partitioning. The chemical analyses were performed by thin layer chromatography and high‐performance liquid chromatography, and the antioxidant activities were assayed by DPPH. and ABTS.+. Minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC/MBC) were applied to twenty‐two bacteria. Most strains susceptible to extract/fractions and resistant to antibiotics were selected, and ampicillin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin were associated with the ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) against multidrug‐resistant strains in modulatory and checkboard models. The data from chromatographic analyses showed flavonoids and tannins in the extract, as well as the enrichment of EAF in phenols, mainly flavonoids. The flavonoids were connected to the electron transfer activity demonstrated in the DPPH. and ABTS.+ assays. Gram‐positive strains are more susceptible to EAF. The subinhibitory concentrations of P. granatum enhanced the antimicrobial activity of the agents and reduced the EAF individual MIC, and the combination of EAF and antibiotics demonstrated a synergistic effect. These results present a promising approach for developing a therapy in which antioxidant extracts and fractions can be used in combination with antibiotics.
Plasmon Coupling Enhanced Micro‐Spectroscopy and Imaging for Sensitive Discrimination of Membrane Domains of a Single Cell
Authors: Pan Xiao‐Hui , Chen Min , Cao Shuo‐Hui , Xu Zi‐Qian , Li Zhao , Li Yao‐Qun
Published: October 2021

Different cell membrane domains play different roles in many cell processes, and the discrimination of these domains is of considerable importance for the elucidation of cellular functions. However, the strategies available for distinguishing these cell membrane domains are limited. A novel technique called plasmon coupling enhanced micro‐spectroscopy and imaging to discriminate basal and lateral membrane domains of a single cell combines the application of an additional plasmonic silver film for surface plasmon (SP) excitation to selectively excite and enhance the basal membranes in the near‐field with directional enhanced microscopic imaging and spectroscopy. The SP and critical evanescent fields are induced upon excitation through a silver‐coated semitransparent coverslip at the surface plasmon resonance and critical angles, respectively. The basal and lateral membrane domains located within the SP and critical evanescent fields can be selectively excited and distinguished by adjusting the incident angle of laser irradiation. Moreover, the brighter images and more intense spectra of membrane‐targeting fluorescence‐Raman probes under directional excitation than in conventional EPI mode allow clear identification of the membrane domains.
Emerging Yttrium Phosphides with Tetrahedron Phosphorus and Superconductivity under High Pressures
Authors: Zhao Kaixuan , Yu Hong , Yang Qiuping , Li Wenjing , Han Fanjunjie , Liu Hanyu , Zhang Shoutao
Published: October 2021

Metal phosphides have triggered growing interest for their exotic structures and striking properties. Hence, within advanced structure search and first‐principle calculations, several unprecedented Y−P compounds (e. g., Y3P, Y2P, Y3P2, Y2P3, YP2, and YP3) were identified under compression. Interestingly, as phosphorus content increases, P atoms exhibit diverse behaviors corresponding to standalone anion, dumbbell, zigzag chain, planar sheet, crossing chain‐like network, buckled layer, three‐dimensional framework, and wrinkled layer. Particularly, Fd‐3m YP2 can be viewed as assemblage of diamond‐like Y structure and rare vertex‐sharing tetrahedral P4 units. Impressively, electron‐phonon coupling (EPC) calculations elucidate that Pm‐3m Y3P possesses the highest superconducting critical temperature Tc of 10.2 K among binary transition metal phosphides. Remarkably, the EPC of Pm‐3m Y3P mainly arises from the contribution of low‐frequency soft phonon modes, whereas mid‐frequency phonon modes of Fd‐3m YP2 dominate. These results strengthen knowledge of metal phosphides and pave a way for seeking superconductive transition metal phosphides.
Synthesis of Isocryptolepine‐Triazole Adducts and Evaluation of Their Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Rodphon Warabhorn , Laohapaisan Pavitra , Supantanapong Nantamon , Reamtong Onrapak , Ngiwsara Lukana , Lirdprapamongkol Kriengsak , Thongsornkleeb Charnsak , Khunnawutmanotham Nisachon , Tummatorn Jumreang , Svasti Jisnuson , Ruchirawat Somsak
Published: October 2021

Eighteen hybrid compounds between 8‐bromo‐2‐fluoro‐isocryptolepine (4) and 1,2,3‐triazole were synthesized via azide rearrangement‐annulation reaction. Compound 4 underwent regioselective N‐propargylation and click reaction to form 8‐bromo‐2‐fluoro‐isocryptolepine‐triazole hybrids 11 which were evaluated for cytotoxic activity. Compound 11 c containing 1‐anisyltriazole was the most effective in inhibiting HepG2, HuCCA‐1 and A549 cell lines (IC50 values of 1.65–3.07 μM) while compounds 11 a (1‐phenyltriazole), 11 j (1‐para‐CF3‐benzyltriazole) and 11 l (1‐meta‐Cl‐benzyltriazole) were potent inhibitors of HuCCA‐1, HepG2 and A549 cell lines, respectively. Moreover, 11 l showed the lowest cytotoxicity to normal human kidney cell line. Compounds 11 c and 11 l provided improvement of cytotoxic activity over 4. Compounds 4, 11 c and 11 l were selected to investigate their mechanisms of action. The results showed that 4 could induce G2/M cell cycle arrest and was involved in the upregulation of p53 and p21 proteins. However, the mechanisms of growth inhibition by 11 c and 11 l were associated with G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and mediated by induction of oxidative stress.
Surgical palliation in poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma of the hypopharynx: Case report
Authors: Fiorini Francesca Romana , Abbas Yasmin , Mukhopadhyay Suchana , Tatla Taran
Published: October 2021

Background

Primary neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are very rare entities accounting for 0.49% of all malignancies. Within the head and neck, the most common sites are the larynx and paranasal sinuses, while the hypopharynx is seldom described.

Case

We present a patient with a poorly differentiated metastatic NEC of the hypopharynx treated palliatively with organ‐preserving surgery and post‐operative chemotherapy, and literature review for well‐documented pure hypopharyngeal NECs. Our patient died of chest infection during chemotherapy, 4 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment in the presence of metastases with 2‐year overall survival of 15.7%. Due to the aggressive nature of poorly differentiated metastatic NECs, surgical management is seldom considered. We report and advocate the successful palliative role of organ‐preserving, minimally invasive trans‐oral LASER micro‐surgery and neck dissection to control loco‐regional head and neck disease, safe‐guarding better quality of home life, despite limited life expectancy for this condition.
Excogitating marine predators algorithm based on random opposition‐based learning for feature selection
Authors: Balakrishnan Kulanthaivel , Dhanalakshmi Ramasamy , Mahadeo Khaire Utkarsh
Published: October 2021

Obtaining precise information from a high‐dimensional dataset is one of the most difficult tasks as datasets contain more features and fewer samples. The high‐dimensionality of the dataset reduces predictive capability and increases the computational complexity of the analytical model. The widespread employment of meta‐heuristic methods to handle the challenge of high‐dimensional datasets has been exceptional in recent years. The marine predators algorithm (MPA) is a recently developed meta‐heuristic algorithm based on the “survival‐of‐the‐fittest” notion. This research critique overcomes the drawbacks of the existing MPA and proposes a feature selection model using random opposition‐based learning (ROBL). The searching for the optimum solution in a single direction of the traditional MPA reduces its performance. The incorporation of ROBL in the MPA enhances its ability to reconnoiter bigger search space. The proposed algorithm generates a new population based on the initial and random opposite population. The performance of ROBL‐MPA is inspected on six high‐dimensional microarray datasets. The results of the proposed ROBL‐MPA are compared to traditional MPA and opposition based MPA (OBL‐MPA). The proposed ROBL‐MPA outperforms traditional MPA based on several benchmark performance analysis tests.
Intravital Imaging of Hepatic Blood Biliary Barrier in Live Mice
Authors: Vats Ravi , Kaminski Tomasz W. , Pradhan‐Sundd Tirthadipa
Published: October 2021

Understanding the kinetics and spatiotemporal interactions of living cells within the tissue environment requires real‐time imaging. The introduction of two‐photon microscopy has substantially boosted the power of live intravital imaging, making it possible to obtain information of individual cells in near‐physiologic conditions within intact tissues nondestructively. Intravital imaging of the liver has proved useful in understanding its 3D structure, function, and dynamic cellular interactions. Recently we have shown that integrity of the blood‒bile barrier in different physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions can be imaged in real time using intravital microscopy. Here we discuss the real‐time intravital imaging method to visualize blood‒bile barrier integrity in the murine liver. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Live imaging in the mouse liver

Support Protocol: Monitoring vital signs of the mouse during live liver imaging

Basic Protocol 2: Visualizing blood and bile transport using intravital microscopy
LIR‐1 educates expanded human NK cells and defines a unique antitumor NK cell subset with potent antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity
Authors: Leijonhufvud Caroline , Reger Robert , Segerberg Filip , Theorell Jakob , Schlums Heinrich , Bryceson Yenan T , Childs Richard W , Carlsten Mattias
Published: October 2021

Objective

KIR and NKG2A receptors educate human NK cells to stay responsive to cells with diminished HLA class I. Here, we addressed whether the HLA class I‐binding receptor LIR‐1 (LILRB1/ILT2/CD85j), which is widely expressed on human NK cells, can mediate education and contribute to antitumor functions of NK cells.

Methods

Healthy donor NK cells either unstimulated, overnight cytokine‐activated or ex vivo‐expanded were used to target human cell lines. Phenotype and function were analysed using flow cytometry and 51Cr‐release assays.

Results

We found that the inhibitory receptor LIR‐1 can mediate NK cell education under specific conditions. This novel finding was exclusive to expanded NK cells and further characterisation of the cells revealed high expression of granzyme B and DNAM‐1, which both previously have been linked to NK cell education. Corroborating the rheostat education model, LIR‐1 co‐expression with an educating KIR further increased the responsiveness of expanded NK cells. Inversely, antibody masking of LIR‐1 decreased the responsiveness. LIR‐1+ expanded NK cells displayed high intrinsic ADCC that, in contrast to KIR and NKG2A, was not inhibited by HLA class I.

Conclusion

These findings identify a unique NK cell subset attractive for adoptive cell therapy to treat cancer. Given that LIR‐1 binds most HLA class I molecules, this subset may be explored in both autologous and allogeneic settings to innately reject HLA class I‐ tumor cells as well as HLA class I+ target cells when combined with antitumor antibodies. Further studies are warranted to address the potential of this subset in vivo.
Comprehensive metabolic study of IOX4 in equine urine and plasma using liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization Q Exactive high‐resolution mass spectrometer for the purpose of doping control
Authors: Ishii Hideaki , Shibuya Mariko , So Yat‐Ming , Wong Jenny K. Y. , Ho Emmie N. M. , Kusano Kanichi , Sone Yu , Kamiya Takahiro , Wakuno Ai , Ito Hideki , Miyata Kenji , Yamada Masayuki , Leung Gary Ngai‐Wa
Published: October 2021

IOX4 is a hypoxia‐inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase (HIF‐PHD) inhibitor, which was developed for the treatment of anemia by exerting hematopoietic effects. The administration of HIF‐PHD inhibitors such as IOX4 to horses is strictly prohibited by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities and the Fédération Équestre Internationale. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive metabolic study of IOX4 in horse plasma and urine after a nasoesophageal administration of IOX4 (500 mg/day, 3 days). A total of four metabolites (three mono‐hydroxylated IOX4 and one IOX4 glucuronide) were detected from the in vitro study using homogenized horse liver. As for the in vivo study, post‐administration plasma and urine samples were comprehensively analyzed with liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization high‐resolution mass spectrometry to identify potential metabolites and determine their corresponding detection times. A total of 10 metabolites (including IOX4 glucuronide, IOX4 glucoside, O‐desbutyl IOX4, O‐desbutyl IOX4 glucuronide, four mono‐hydroxylated IOX4, N‐oxidized IOX4, and N‐oxidized IOX4 glucoside) were found in urine and three metabolites (glucuronide, glucoside, and O‐desbutyl) in plasma. Thus, the respective quantification methods for the detection of free and conjugated IOX4 metabolites in urine and plasma with a biphase enzymatic hydrolysis were developed and applied to post‐administration samples for the establishment of elimination profiles of IOX4. The detection times of total IOX4 in urine and plasma could be successfully prolonged to at least 312 h.
The association of chronic, enhanced immunosuppression with outcomes of diabetic foot infections
Authors: Uçkay Ilker , Schöni Madlaina , Berli Martin C. , Niggli Fabian , Noschajew Emil , Lipsky Benjamin A. , Waibel Felix W. A.
Published: October 2021

We investigated if a chronic, enhanced immunosuppressed condition, beyond the immunodeficiency related to diabetes, is associated with clinical failures after combined surgical and medical treatment for diabetic foot infection (DFI). This is a case‐control cohort study in a tertiary centre for diabetic foot problems, using case‐mix adjustments with multivariate Cox regression models. Among 1013 DFI episodes in 586 patients (median age 67 years; 882 with osteomyelitis), we identified a chronic, enhanced immune‐suppression condition in 388 (38%) cases: dialysis (85), solid organ transplantation (25), immune‐suppressive medication (70), cirrhosis (9), cancer chemotherapy (15) and alcohol abuse (243). Overall, 255 treatment episodes failed (25%). By multivariate analysis, the presence (as compared with absence) of chronic, enhanced immune‐suppression was associated with a higher rate of clinical failures in DFI cases (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.1–2.0). We conclude that a chronic, enhanced immune‐suppressed state might be an independent risk factor for treatment failure in DFI. Validation of this hypothesis could be useful information for both affected patients and their treating clinicians.
Biomarkers in the management of acute heart failure: state of the art and role in COVID‐19 era
Authors: Aleksova Aneta , Sinagra Gianfranco , Beltrami Antonio P. , Pierri Alessandro , Ferro Federico , Janjusevic Milijana , Gagno Giulia
Published: October 2021

Acute heart failure (AHF) affects millions of people worldwide, and it is a potentially life‐threatening condition for which the cardiologist is more often brought into play. It is crucial to rapidly identify, among patients presenting with dyspnoea, those with AHF and to accurately stratify their risk, in order to define the appropriate setting of care, especially nowadays due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak. Furthermore, with physical examination being limited by personal protective equipment, the use of new alternative diagnostic and prognostic tools could be of extreme importance. In this regard, usage of biomarkers, especially when combined (a multimarker approach) is beneficial for establishment of an accurate diagnosis, risk stratification and post‐discharge monitoring. This review highlights the use of both traditional biomarkers such as natriuretic peptides (NP) and troponin, and emerging biomarkers such as soluble suppression of tumourigenicity (sST2) and galectin‐3 (Gal‐3), from patients' emergency admission to discharge and follow‐up, to improve risk stratification and outcomes in terms of mortality and rehospitalization.
Significant duration predictive models developed from strong‐motion data of thrust‐faulting earthquakes recorded in Mexico City
Authors: López‐Castañeda Alhelí S. , Reinoso Eduardo
Published: October 2021

Predictive models for estimating strong‐motion duration in sites characterized by soft‐soil profiles are presented in this paper. The models were developed using a strong‐motion database that includes observations from subduction interface earthquakes that occurred from 1989 to 2020 and recorded in Mexico City, which is located at source‐to‐site distances up to 600 km. A linear mixed‐effects regression model, which is a statistical fitting procedure that allows to consider the correlation structure of grouped data, was used to develop the predictive models. Relative significant duration was selected to measure strong‐motion duration. This measure can be directly associated with the accumulation of energy of the ground movement. The proposed predictive models relate relative significant duration with moment magnitude, either hypocentral distance or closest distance to the rupture plane, and dominant period of the soil. Regression analyses were performed grouping the ground‐motion data by both seismic event and site class. Model assumptions, such as homoscedasticity, normality, and linearity of effects, were verified from residual analyses. From the results, the expected value of the natural logarithm of relative significant duration was found to be ∼1.2 times greater for an earthquake with a moment magnitude equal to 8.0 than for one of 6.0. An insightful discussion about the sources and character of the uncertainties detected in the proposed predictive models is also presented in this study. The predictive models proposed in this paper are of valuable application in seismic and structural engineering because they allow to circumscribe properly the dimension and randomness of strong‐motion duration.
‘Fluvial geomorphology and environmental design’: Restitution for damage, rehabilitation, restoration or rewilding?
Authors: Newson Malcolm
Published: October 2021

Gregory's pioneering work on progressive river channel change, driven in England by both natural and anthropogenic forces, helped to guide major concepts and roles for fluvial geomorphology. It opened the door to a steep rise of applied fluvial geomorphology and a bigger role in public policy and river basin management.

The channel change paradigm spans the millennia; by the late 20th century, the extent of Anthropocene harm to rivers justified both a radical label as ‘damage’ and a professional focus to prescribe remedies. Imitating engineering, then dominant in river management, Gregory favoured the term ‘design’. The damage principally impacted river habitat and increasing collaboration with freshwater ecologists in the restitution of damage became part of the international move to ‘river science’. European legislation strengthened the legal status of physical habitat in overall river quality.

In the 21st century fluvial geomorphology has both strengthened and diversified further within ‘river science’, but also gaining social, behavioural, even political, insights through ‘citizen science’ and the ‘co‐design’ of river corridor projects with communities. The professional challenges of the climate and biodiversity emergencies return us to Gregory's question, ‘how applied should we become?’ The increasingly public profiles of, for example, flood risk policy require river scientists to participate in recommending and co‐designing options such as rehabilitation, restoration and rewilding. The separate and joint contributions of these options are discussed through the geomorphological prism. Progressive and episodic channel changes will increase as the drivers and remedies interact; we must play a role in scenario setting and adaptive management, promoting workable collaboration between natural and social sciences, especially in the contested field of design.