bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating a Measure of Computer Technology Domain Identification: A Tool for Understanding Gender Differences and Stereotypes
Authors: Smith Jessi L. , Morgan Carolyn L. , White Paul H.
Published: March 2005

The aim of this project is to further examine the construct of domain identification (i.e., a person’s positive phenomenological experiences with, and perceived self-relevance of, a domain), specifically as it applies to computer technology (CT). The authors model a knownmeasure of math identification to first develop a measure ofCTidentification. The authors then test whether the new CT identification measure could uniquely explain the relationship between individuals’ gender and CT career pursuit, above and beyond math identification. Finally, the authors examine the relationships between men’s and women’s CT domain identification, their perceptions of the CT field, and their interpersonal orientation to determine whether existing relationships among these variables might explain individuals’ willingness to consider a number of CT-and non-CT-related fields.
From Good Neighborhoods to Sustainable Cities: Social Science and the Social Agenda of the New Urbanism
Authors: Brain David
Published: March 2005

Despite of the growing influence of the new urbanism, social science has contributed relatively little to our understanding of the movement’s significance. Research has often focused on testing hypotheses derived directly from new urbanist claims, rather than posing questions grounded in sociological theory and empirical study of actual transformations of planning, design, and development practice. This article proposes an understanding of the sociology implicit in the new urbanism as it has organized the reform of professional practice in terms of two distinct ideals: community, with its rhetoric of solidarity based on common feeling, and urbanism, with echoes of an Arendtian conception of the public realm. Although new urbanists have not recognized important social and political implications of their project, their efforts to transform the way we build neighborhoods and cities suggest important lessons for a research agenda and a sociology of place more usefully connected to place-making practice.
Barriers Influencing the Success of Racial and Ethnic Minority Students in Nursing Programs
Authors: Gardner Janelle
Published: March 2005

Racial and ethnic minority students have high attrition rates in nursing school. This article describes a qualitative study that explored 15 minority nursing students’ experiences while enrolled in a predominantly White nursing program. In-depth interviews were conducted and eight themes emerged: loneliness and isolation, differentness, absence of acknowledgment of individuality from teachers, peers’ lack of understanding and knowledge about cultural differences, lack of support from teachers, coping with insensitivity and discrimination, determination to build a better future, and overcoming obstacles. This article provides a voice for minority nursing students whose experiences have not been heard. By understanding these students’ experiences and perspectives, nursing educators may be better able to meet their educational needs and increase graduation rates.
Functional analysis of leukemia-associated PTPN11 mutations in primary hematopoietic cells
Authors: Schubbert Suzanne , Lieuw Kenneth , Rowe Sara L. , Lee Connie M. , Li XiaXin , Loh Mignon L. , Clapp D. Wade , Shannon Kevin M.
Published: March 2005

PTPN11 encodes the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-2, which relays signals from growth factor receptors to Ras and other effectors. Germline PTPN11 mutations underlie about 50% of Noonan syndrome (NS), a developmental disorder that is associated with an elevated risk of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). Somatic PTPN11 mutations were recently identified in about 35% of patients with JMML; these mutations introduce amino acid substitutions that are largely distinct from those found in NS. We assessed the functional consequences of leukemia-associated PTPN11 mutations in murine hematopoietic cells. Expressing an E76K SHP-2 protein induced a hypersensitive pattern of granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming unit (CFU-GM) colony growth in response to granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin 3 (IL-3) that was dependent on SHP-2 catalytic activity. E76K SHP-2 expression also enhanced the growth of immature progenitor cells with high replating potential, perturbed erythroid growth, and impaired normal differentiation in liquid cultures. In addition, leukemia-associated SHP-2 mutations conferred a stronger phenotype than a germline mutation found in patients with NS. Mutant SHP-2 proteins induce aberrant growth in multiple hematopoietic compartments, which supports a primary role of hyperactive Ras in the pathogenesis of JMML.
SUMO-1 conjugation selectively modulates STAT1-mediated gene responses
Authors: Ungureanu Daniela , Vanhatupa Sari , Grönholm Juha , Palvimo Jorma J. , Silvennoinen Olli
Published: March 2005

Signal transducers and activators of transcription 1 (STAT1) is a critical mediator of interferon (IFN)–induced gene responses. Recently, STAT1 was found to become modified by small ubiquitin-like modifier 1 (SUMO-1) conjugation at Lys703 through the SUMO E3 ligase function of protein inhibitors of activated STAT (PIAS) proteins. However, the physiologic function of sumoylation in STAT1 is still unclear. Here, we show that mutations in the SUMO attachment site in STAT1 result in increased transcriptional activity in a fashion that is selective among IFN-γ target genes. The sumoylation-defective STAT1 mutant displayed increased induction of guanylate-binding protein 1 (GBP1) and transporters associated with antigen presentation 1 (TAP1) transcription but not interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) transcription. Moreover, the sumoylation-defective mutant STAT1-KR showed a prolonged DNA-binding activity and nuclear localization in response to IFN-γ stimulation. These results suggest that sumoylation has a defined negative regulatory effect on selective STAT1-mediated transcription responses.
Treatment of hairy cell leukemia with 2-chlorodeoxyadenosine (2-CdA): long-term follow-up of the Northwestern University experience
Authors: Chadha Punit , Rademaker Alfred W. , Mendiratta Prateek , Kim Benjamin , Evanchuk Darren M. , Hakimian David , Peterson LoAnn C. , Tallman Martin S.
Published: March 2005

2-chlorodeoxyadenosine (2-CdA), a purine analog, has become universally accepted as the agent of choice in treating hairy cell leukemia (HCL). However, few studies have reported long-term outcomes after 2-CdA treatment. Between January 1990 and June 2003, 86 consecutive patients with HCL were treated with a single 7-day course of 2-CdA by continuous infusion at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg per day. Of the 86 patients (mean age: 49 years), 67 patients (79%) achieved a complete remission (CR); 18 patients (21%) achieved a partial remission (PR); and 1 patient's response was unable to be assessed. The progression-free survival (PFS) for initial relapse after 12 years was 54%. At a median follow-up of 9.7 years (range, 0.3-13.8 years), 31 (36%) of 85 patients relapsed. There were 23 relapsed patients treated with a second cycle of 2-CdA; 2 patients were treated with alternative agents; and 6 patients were observed. Of the 23 relapsed patients retreated with 2-CdA, 12 (52%) achieved a CR and 7 (30%) patients achieved a PR (overall response rate: 83%). The overall survival (OS) rate after 12 years was 87%. There were 15 patients (17%) who developed other malignancies. Long-term follow-up of up to 14 years (median: 9.7 years) showed an excellent PFS and OS for HCL patients after 2-CdA treatment.
Arsenic suppresses gene expression in promyelocytic leukemia cells partly through Sp1 oxidation
Authors: Chou Wen-Chien , Chen Hsuan-Yu , Yu Sung-Liang , Cheng Linzhao , Yang Pan-Chyr , Dang Chi V.
Published: March 2005

The mechanism by which arsenic dramatically affects gene expression remains poorly understood. Here we report that prolonged exposure of acute promyelocytic leukemia NB4 cells to low levels of arsenic trioxide increased the expression of a set of genes responsible for reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. We hypothesize that arsenic-induced ROS in turn contribute partially to altered gene expression. To identify genes responsive to arsenic-induced ROS, we used microarray gene expression analysis and identified genes that responded to arsenic and hydrogen peroxide but whose response to arsenic was reversed by an ROS scavenger, N-acetyl-L-cysteine. We found that 26% of the genes significantly responsive to arsenic might have been directly altered by ROS. We further explored the mechanisms by which ROS affects gene regulation and found that the Sp1 transcription factor was oxidized by arsenic treatment, with a corresponding decrease in its in situ binding on the promoters of 3 genes, hTERT, C17, and c-Myc, whose expressions were significantly suppressed. We conclude that ROS contributed partly to arsenic-mediated gene regulation and that Sp1 oxidation contributed to gene suppression by arsenic-induced ROS.
Pathwise optimality of the exponential scheduling rule for wireless channels
Authors: Shakkottai Sanjay , Srikant R. , Stolyar Alexander L.
Published: March 2005

We consider the problem of scheduling the transmissions of multiple data users (flows) sharing the same wireless channel (server). The unique feature of this problem is the fact that the capacity (service rate) of the channel varies randomly with time and asynchronously for different users. We study a scheduling policy called the exponential scheduling rule, which was introduced in an earlier paper. Given a system with N users, and any set of positive numbers {an}, n = 1, 2,…, N, we show that in a heavy-traffic limit, under a nonrestrictive ‘complete resource pooling’ condition, this algorithm has the property that, for each time t, it (asymptotically) minimizes maxnanq̃n(t), where q̃n(t) is the queue length of user n in the heavy-traffic regime.
Two-choice optimal stopping
Authors: Assaf David , Goldstein Larry , Samuel-Cahn Ester
Published: March 2005

Let Xn,…,X1 be independent, identically distributed (i.i.d.) random variables with distribution function F. A statistician, knowing F, observes the X values sequentially and is given two chances to choose Xs using stopping rules. The statistician's goal is to stop at a value of X as small as possible. Let equal the expectation of the smaller of the two values chosen by the statistician when proceeding optimally. We obtain the asymptotic behaviour of the sequence for a large class of Fs belonging to the domain of attraction (for the minimum) 𝒟(Gα), where Gα(x) = [1 - exp(-xα)]1(x ≥ 0) (with 1(·) the indicator function). The results are compared with those for the asymptotic behaviour of the classical one-choice value sequence , as well as with the ‘prophet value’ sequence
Finite- and infinite-time ruin probabilities in the presence of stochastic returns on investments
Authors: Tang Qihe , Tsitsiashvili Gurami
Published: March 2005

This paper investigates the finite- and infinite-time ruin probabilities in a discrete-time stochastic economic environment. Under the assumption that the insurance risk - the total net loss within one time period - is extended-regularly-varying or rapidly-varying tailed, various precise estimates for the ruin probabilities are derived. In particular, some estimates obtained are uniform with respect to the time horizon, and so apply in the case of infinite-time ruin.
Multi-Actor Markov Decision Processes
Authors: Ahn Hyun-Soo , Righter Rhonda
Published: March 2005

We give a very general reformulation of multi-actor Markov decision processes and show that there is a tendency for the actors to take the same action whenever possible. This considerably reduces the complexity of the problem, either facilitating numerical computation of the optimal policy or providing a basis for a heuristic.
Tools to Estimate the First Passage Time to a Convex Barrier
Authors: Hammarlid Ola
Published: March 2005

The first passage time of a random walk to a barrier (constant or concave) is of great importance in many areas, such as insurance, finance, and sequential analysis. Here, we consider a sum of independent, identically distributed random variables and the convex barriercb(n/c), wherecis a scale parameter andnis time. It is shown, using large-deviation techniques, that the limit distribution of the first passage time decays exponentially inc. Under a tilt of measure, which changes the drift, four properties are proved: the limit distribution of the overshoot is distributed as an overshoot over a linear barrier; the stopping time is asymptotically normally distributed when it is properly normalized; the overshoot and the asymptotic normal part are asymptotically independent; and the overshoot over a linear barrier is bounded by an exponentially distributed random variable. The determination of the function that multiplies the exponential part is guided by consideration of these properties.
Development of Ultrathin Polymer Films and Their Characteristics in Two Dimensions
Authors: Ito Shinzaburo , Mabuchi Michiaki , Sato Nobuhiro , Aoki Hiroyuki
Published: March 2005

Nanostructures and properties of ultrathin polymer films prepared by repeated deposition of monolayers have been investigated with emphasis on single chain morphology in two dimensions. The particular characteristics of ultrathin films were successfully revealed by novel optical microscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. A single polymer chain, which is confined into a two-dimensional plane, takes a contracted conformation, being segregated from other chains in the monolayer. Unlike three dimensional bulk polymers, there is little entanglement of polymer chains even for large molecular weight samples. These characteristics at the molecular level result in the entropy relaxation of individual chains with a small activation energy of diffusion, when the segmental motions are allowed at elevated temperatures. These understandings of structures and properties in two dimensions are indispensable for fabrication and application of polymeric thin films because the fine structures in low dimensions play critical roles in the production of advanced functions.
Dendrimer Effects on Intermolecular Energy-Transfer of Photoexcited Triplet States of Dendritic Multiporphyrin Arrays and Electron Transfer vs Fullerene[60]
Authors: Luo Hongxia , Choi Myung-Seok , Araki Yasuyuki , Ito Osamu , Aida Takuzo
Published: March 2005

Photochemical and photophysical properties of the triplet excited states of dendritic multiporphyrins arrays (nPZn, n = 1, 3, and 7) have been investigated by measuring the nanosecond transient absorption spectra in the visible and near-IR regions with changing the generation number. Intermolecular triplet–triplet annihilation rates decrease with the dendrimer generation, which was interpreted on a proposed kinetic model assuming that the excited triplet energy almost localizes in one PZn unit in nPZn. In the presence of C60, intermolecular electron-transfer takes place via the excited triplet states of nPZn (3nPZn*), yielding the cation radical of nPZn (nPZn•+) and the anion radical of C60 (C60•−) in PhCN. Deceleration of the electron-transfer rate-constants from 1PZn to 3PZn and the acceleration from 3PZn to 7PZn were observed, in which the latter tendency was interpreted by considering an increase in effective encounter radius for 37PZn*. The observed small change of the rate constants for back electron transfer between the oppositely charged species with the dendrimer generation was also reasonably interpreted by taking a smaller effective radius due to electrostatic attraction into consideration. Dendrimer generation effect was also observed for the intermolecular hole-transfer process.
Synthesis, Structure, and In Vitro and In Vivo Insulinomimetic Activities of the Zinc(II)–6-Ethylpicolinate Complex
Authors: Kojima Yoshitane , Yoshikawa Yutaka , Ueda Eriko , Kishimoto Noriko , Tadokoro Makoto , Sakurai Hiromu
Published: March 2005

A new zinc(II) complex, bis(6-ethylpicolinato)zinc(II) ([Zn(6epa)2]), was prepared by introducing an electron-donating ethyl group on the pyridine ring. [Zn(6epa)2] was crystallized from an aqueous solution, and its structure was determined by X-ray analysis, in which both carboxylate O and pyridine N atoms of 6epa coordinated to a Zn2+ ion, forming a distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry with two 6epa and a water. In an in vitro evaluation with regard to the inhibition of free fatty acid (FFA) release from isolated rat adipocytes in the presence of epinephrine, the insulinomimetic activity (IC50 = 0.37 mM) of [Zn(6epa)2] was found to be higher than that (0.64 mM) of the bis(picolinato)Zn(II) complex in terms of the IC50 value. When the [Zn(6epa)2] complex was injected daily at a dose of 3 mg Zn/kg of body weight of KK-Ay mice for 14 d, the blood glucose levels of the mice were lowered to approximately 200 mg/dL (11.1 mM) from 400–500 mg/dL (22.2–27.8 mM). Based on the results, the [Zn(6epa)2] complex was proposed to be a new candidate for treating type-2 diabetes in animals. However, it was proven that [Zn(6mpa)2] has an advantage in having no side effect over [Zn(6epa)2], when the effects on their serum parameters were considered.
Rhodium-Catalyzed Acylation of Vinylsilanes with Acid Anhydrides
Authors: Yamane Motoki , Uera Kazuyoshi , Narasaka Koichi
Published: March 2005

A catalytic acylation of vinylsilane with acid anhydride is accomplished by the use of [RhCl(CO)2]2, in which the transmetalation between vinylsilane and rhodium(I) carbonyl complex plays a key role. The application of this acylation reaction to (1-acyloxyvinyl)silanes provides synthetic methods for α-acyloxy enones, α-diketones, and their derivatives.
Synthesis, Structure, and Information about Molecular Weight of Thiophene Homopolymers, Copolymers of 2,5-Thienylene and 2,4-Thienylene, and Their Soluble Nitrates
Authors: Abe Masahiro , Abdul Karim S M , Yamaguchi Isao , Kuroda Shin-ichi , Kubota Kenji , Yamamoto Takakazu
Published: March 2005

Dehalogenative homopolymerization and copolymerization of 2,5-dibromothiophene and 2,4-dibromothiophene were carried out by using a Ni(II) complex catalyst. Nitration of the polymers gave soluble nitrated polymers which provided information about the degree of polymerization (DP = 58–88) of the original polymers. Chemical properties of the polymers and their nitrates are reported.
Evaluation of a Local Acoustic Resonance Method for Coating Thickness Determination on Stochastic Metal Hybrid Foams
Authors: Kollmannsperger Lea S. , Kunz Francesco , Becker Michael M. , Jung Anne , Fischer Sarah C. L.
Published: February 2024

Novel cellular materials promise a combination of high strength and low specific weight for sustainable and energy‐efficient material design. Inhomogeneities of the materials, such as varying coating thickness, are inherent to the production process but require advanced characterization in order to better understand mechanical properties. Herein, global and local acoustic analysis for nondestructive characterization of local coating thickness on an open‐porous hybrid metal foam system is studied. Experiments and numerical simulations are carried out to evaluate vibration behavior stimulated by a low‐energy impact. The novelty of the work is the use of local excitation and analysis of decay times to determine coating thickness gradients. This qualitative measurement can inform and speed up the material development process due to its simplicity, speed, and low cost. Furthermore, it provides a basis for quality control when scaling up the technology of metal hybrid foams for industrial applications.
Antioxidant Nanozyme‐Engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells for In Vivo MRI Tracking and Synergistic Therapy of Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Le Wenjun , Sun Zeyi , Li Tieyan , Cao Hao , Yang Chuanxue , Mei Tianxiao , Zhang Laihai , Wang Yibing , Jia Wenwen , Sun Wen , Hu Yihui , Liu Zhongmin
Published: February 2024

Cell therapy is a promising approach for myocardial infarction (MI) treatment. However, this strategy is often restricted by the harsh microenvironment of MI, such as excess ROS, high oxidative stress, inflammation, etc., and thus decreases the curative effect. Additionally, the distribution, migration, and homing of the transplanted stem cells is ambiguous, which also becomes a bottleneck for clinical translation. To address these challenges, herein, a versatile antioxidant nanozyme is designed by polymerically modifying dopamine (PDA) onto the surface of Mn3O4. The obtained nanozyme acts as an efficient SOD mimic, eliminating ROS, relieving oxidative stress, and reducing inflammation to improve the MI microenvironment. Simultaneously, Mn3O4@PDA serves as an excellent MRI contrast agent for tracking MSCs. Then, MSCs are engineered with Mn3O4@PDA nanozyme via endocytosis to form Mn3O4@PDA‐MSCs (Abbr. E‐MSCs), which possess superior viability, migration and homing ability compared to normal MSCs. Furthermore, E‐MSCs exhibit superior anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs. Finally, the in vivo MRI tracking and synergistic therapy potential of E‐MSCs is explored in MI model mice. Overall, this work provides a strategy to combine antioxidant activity and imaging properties of nanozymes to simultaneously facilitate imaging tracking of stem cells and improve MI treatment.
Hydrogel Enabled Dual‐Shielding Improves Efficiency and Stability of BiVO4 Based Photoanode for Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Yifan , Zhang Wenran , Yao Xiangdong , Liang Qijie
Published: February 2024

Photoelectrochemical solar to hydrogen conversion is a promising approach to solve energy and environmental problems. One of the paramount challenges to overcome is to achieve high solar to hydrogen efficiency while retaining stable service behavior without photocorrosion of the photoanode. In this study, a hydrogel‐enabled dual‐shielding (FeCoOx/PAAM) strategy is reported to improve efficiency and suppress photocorrosion of photoanode during solar water splitting especially in a high‐intensity illumination. Anodic photocorrosion of BiVO4 photoanodes involves the chemical and physical construction changes under the conditions of light field, electric field, and electrolyte. The utilization of FeCoOx/PAAM on BiVO4 inhibits the improvement of oxygen evolution reaction kinetics, bubble dynamics, and blocking ion dissolution diffusion, which effectively suppresses anodic photocorrosion and simultaneously improves efficiency of BiVO4 photoanode. The improved BiVO4/FeCoOx/PAAM photoanode shows a superior photocurrent density of 19.88 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus RHE, and a high charge separation efficiency of 98% with enhanced stability over 60 h (300 mW cm−2). This study contributes to developing a universal method of photoanode protection to anti‐photocorrosion, facilitating the development of high‐efficiency, high‐stability, and pollution‐free hydrogen production.
Hydrogen‐Associated Multiple Electronic Phase Transitions for d‐Orbital Transitional Metal Oxides: Progress, Application, and Beyond
Authors: Zhou Xuanchi , Li Haifan , Jiao Yongjie , Zhou Guowei , Ji Huihui , Jiang Yong , Xu Xiaohong
Published: February 2024

Hydrogen‐associated electron doping Mottronics within d‐orbital transitional metal oxides (TMOs) opens up a new paradigm to explore exotic physical phenomena that enable promising applications such as artificial intelligence, Mottronic/iontronic devices, energy conversions, bio‐electronic sensing, and smart windows. Although remarkable progress is achieved over the past decade, systematic and in‐depth insights into hydrogen‐associated exotic physical phenomena within TMOs are still lacking. Herein, this review delivers a comprehensive and timely picture of hydrogen‐triggered electronic phase transitions within TMOs, covering the hydrogenation strategies, research progress, underneath mechanisms, multidisciplinary applications, and beyond. Furthermore, of particular interest, the hydrogenation or protonation enables the possibility of exploring the novel electronic phase and exotic physical properties within TMOs via breaking the intrinsic coupling in the charge, spin, lattice, and orbital degrees of freedom. Beyond that, a broader vision is further cast into the cutting‐edge researching fields of the multifunctionality associated with hydrogenated TMOs and the role of hydrogen in filling‐controlled Mottronic transitions by using hydrogenation. As combined with the critical overview of the existing open questions and future prospects, this review is expected to provide useful guidance on the hydrogen‐associated electronic phase transitions within TMOs and further broaden the promising applications.
Recombinant Human Keratinocyte Growth Factor Ameliorates Cancer Treatment‐Induced Oral Mucositis on a Chip
Authors: Ly Khanh L. , Rajtboriraks May , Elgerbi Ahmed , Luo Xiaolong , Raub Christopher B.
Published: February 2024

Oral mucositis (OM) is a severe complication of cancer therapies caused by off‐target cytotoxicity. Palifermin, which is recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), is currently the only mitigating treatment available to a subset of OM patients. This study used a previously established model of oral mucositis on a chip (OM‐OC) comprised of a confluent human gingival keratinocytes (GIE) layer attached to a basement membrane‐lined subepithelial layer consisting of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC) on a stable collagen I gel. Cisplatin, radiation, and combined treatments are followed by a recovery period in the OM‐OC to determine possible cellular and molecular mechanisms of OM under effects of KGF. Cancer treatments affected the keratinocyte layer, causing death and epithelial barrier loss. Both keratinocytes and subepithelial cells died rapidly, as evidenced by propidium iodide staining. In response to radiation exposure, cell death occurred in the apical epithelial layer, predominantly, within 24h. Cisplatin exposure predominantly promoted death of basal epithelial cells within 32‐36h. Presence of KGF in OM‐OC protected tissues from damage caused by cancer treatments in a dose‐dependent manner, being more effective at 10 ng/mL. As verified by F‐actin staining and the Alamar Blue assay, KGF contributed to epithelial survival and induced proliferation of GIE and HGF as well as HMEC within 120h. When the expression of eighty inflammatory cytokines is evaluated at OM induction (Day 12) and resolution (Day 18) stages in OM‐OC, some cytokines are identified as potential novel therapeutic targets. In comparison with chemoradiation exposure, KGF treatment showed a trend to decrease IL‐8 and TNF‐a expression at Day 12 and 18, and TGF‐β1 at Day 18 in OM‐OC. Taken together, these findings support the utility of OM‐OC as a platform to model epithelial damage and evaluate molecular mechanisms following OM treatment.
PAA‐PU Janus Hydrogels Stabilized by Janus Particles and its Interfacial Performance During Hemostatic Processing
Authors: Fang Yan , Zheng Yanyan , Chi Chongyi , Jiang Sai , Qin Wanbang , Zhang Yicheng , Liu Haiqing , Chen Qinhui
Published: February 2024

Hydrogel is a very promising dressing for hemostasis and wound healing due to its good adhesion and long‐term moist environment. However, secondary injury caused by tissue adhesion due to homogeneous hydrogel cannot be ignored. The obvious interface existing in Janus hydrogel will weaken its asymmetric function. Here, a hierarchical adhesive polyacrylic acid–polyurushiol water–oil Janus hydrogel (JPs@PAA‐PU) without adhesive layer is fabricated by one‐pot method in the stabilization of polystyrene@silica‐siliver Janus particles (JPs). The morphological structure, mechanical properties, anisotropic chemical composition, and adhesion performance, in vivo, and in vitro hemostatic properties of Janus hydrogel are investigated. Result shows that the obtained Janus hydrogel possesses obvious compartmentalization in microstructure, functional groups, and chemical elements. Janus hydrogel is provided with asymmetric interfacial toughness with top 52.45 ± 2.29 Kpa and bottom 7.04 ± 0.88 Kpa on porcine liver. The adhesion properties of PAA side to tissue, red blood cells and platelets, promoting effect of PU side on coagulation cascade reaction and its physical battier endow Janus hydrogel with shorter hemostatic time and less blood loss than control group. It also exhibits excellent antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (>90%). Janus hydrogel possesses biosafety, providing safety guarantee for clinical applications in the future.
Frontiers in Photoelectrochemical Catalysis: A Focus on Valuable Product Synthesis
Authors: Sendeku Marshet Getaye , Shifa Tofik Ahmed , Dajan Fekadu Tsegaye , Ibrahim Kassa Belay , Wu Binglan , Yang Ying , Moretti Elisa , Vomiero Alberto , Wang Fengmei
Published: February 2024

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) catalysis provides the most promising avenue for producing value‐added chemicals and consumables from renewable precursors. Over the last decades, PEC catalysis, including reduction of renewable feedstock, oxidation of organics, and activation and functionalization of C─C and C─H bonds, are extensively investigated, opening new opportunities for employing the technology in upgrading readily available resources. However, several challenges still remain unsolved, hindering the commercialization of the process. This review offers an overview of PEC catalysis targeted at the synthesis of high‐value chemicals from sustainable precursors. First, the fundamentals of evaluating PEC reactions in the context of value‐added product synthesis at both anode and cathode are recalled. Then, the common photoelectrode fabrication methods that have been employed to produce thin‐film photoelectrodes are highlighted. Next, the advancements are systematically reviewed and discussed in the PEC conversion of various feedstocks to produce highly valued chemicals. Finally, the challenges and prospects in the field are presented. This review aims at facilitating further development of PEC technology for upgrading several renewable precursors to value‐added products and other pharmaceuticals.
Activating CD8+ T Cells by Pt(IV) Prodrug‐Based Nanomedicine and aPD‐L1 Antibody for Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhou Jingyu , Li Ruitong , Tang Dongsheng , Cao Zheng , Xu Chun , Xiao Haihua
Published: February 2024

Recent years have witnessed substantial progress in cancer immunotherapy, specifically T cell‐based therapies. However, the application of T cell therapies has been primarily limited to hematologic malignancies, with limited success in the treatment of solid tumors. The main challenge in treating solid tumor is immune escape, which is characterized by reduced antigenicity, diminished immunogenicity, and the development of suppressive tumor immune microenvironments. To address these obstacles and restore T cell‐mediated anti‐tumor responses, a novel nanoparticle formulation known as PRA@Oxa‐c16 is developed. This innovative approach combines retinoic acid and Pt(IV) to specifically target and overcome immune escape. Notably, the therapeutic efficacy of PRA@Oxa‐c16 primarily relies on its ability to induce anti‐tumor T cell responses, in contrast to the cytotoxicity associated with conventional chemotherapeutic agents. When combined with an immune checkpoint blockade, anti‐programmed death‐ligand 1 antibody, PRA@Oxa‐c16 effectively eliminates solid tumors and induces immune memory responses, which prevent tumor metastasis and recurrence. This promising approach holds great potential for enhancing the treatment of solid tumors with T cell‐based immunotherapy.
C−N Coupling between Aryl Azides and Cyclopropanols by Photoredox/Copper Dual Catalysis
Authors: Lin Wu‐Jie , Wang Yu‐Zhao , Yu Wei
Published: February 2024

A photoredox/copper co‐catalyzed ring‐opening cross‐coupling of aryl azides with cyclopropanols has been developed with fac‐Ir(ppy)3 as the photocatalyst. The reaction involves intermediacy of the anilino radical generated through reduction of the azido group by fac‐Ir(ppy)3* and [CuII]‐enabled oxidative ring‐opening of the cyclopropanol. An array of β‐aminoketone compounds were synthesized under redox‐neutral conditions by using this method.
Phosphorylation of AGO2 by TBK1 Promotes the Formation of Oncogenic miRISC in NSCLC
Authors: Zhao Xian , Cao Yingting , Lu Runhui , Zhou Zihan , Huang Caihu , Li Lian , Huang Jiayi , Chen Ran , Wang Yanli , Huang Jian , Cheng Jinke , Zheng Junke , Fu Yujie , Yu Jianxiu
Published: February 2024

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a highly lethal tumor that often develops resistance to targeted therapy. It is shown that Tank‐binding kinase 1 (TBK1) phosphorylates AGO2 at S417 (pS417‐AGO2), which promotes NSCLC progression by increasing the formation of microRNA‐induced silencing complex (miRISC). High levels of pS417‐AGO2 in clinical NSCLC specimens are positively associated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, the treatment with EGFR inhibitor Gefitinib can significantly induce pS417‐AGO2, thereby increasing the formation and activity of oncogenic miRISC, which may contribute to NSCLC resistance to Gefitinib. Based on these, two therapeutic strategies is developed. One is jointly to antagonize multiple oncogenic miRNAs highly expressed in NSCLC and use TBK1 inhibitor Amlexanox reducing the formation of oncogenic miRISC. Another approach is to combine Gefitinib with Amlexanox to inhibit the progression of Gefitinib‐resistant NSCLC. This findings reveal a novel mechanism of oncogenic miRISC regulation by TBK1‐mediated pS417‐AGO2 and suggest potential therapeutic approaches for NSCLC.
Adaptation of oat genotypes in organic and conventionally managed fields in the northwestern Himalayas
Authors: Sanadya Sanjay Kumar , Sood Vinod Kumar , Sharma Gaurav , Enyew Muluken , Katna Gopal
Published: February 2024

Developing stable and high‐yielding crop varieties is crucial for sustainable agriculture. The present study investigated genotype × environment interactions (GEIs) in 96 oat (Avena sativa L.) genotypes across five environments (year–production system combinations) using an alpha lattice design. Additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis revealed significant genotype, environment, and GEI effects on the studied traits. The oat genotypes were grouped into four distinct clusters and even genotypes from the same source were grouped into different clusters, indicating a wide range of diversity. Stability indices have highlighted genotypes coded as G33, G4, and G5 as the most stable across environments. Specifically, concerning seed yield, the AMMI analysis identified G33, G4, G5, and G82 as highly stable genotypes. Moreover, the study observed specific adaptations, such as G29 in E1 (conventional system 2019–2020), G76 in E3 (conventional system 2020–2021), and G54 and G77 in E4 (organic system 2020–2021). The genotype and genotype × environment (GGE) biplot analysis unveiled that environment E3 (conventional system 2020–2021) emerged as the ideal environment, demonstrating the highest level of representativeness and discrimination. By utilizing the polygon view of the GGE biplot, the presence of two distinct mega‐environments (MEs; ME1 and ME2) was revealed in relation to seed yield. Within these MEs, genotypes coded as G2 and G38 in ME1 and G20, G72, G85, and G89 in ME2 exhibited specific adaptations. Furthermore, genotypes coded as G89, G95, and G82 exhibited both stability and high mean seed yield. By combining stability indices, AMMI, and GGE biplots, widely adapted genotypes have the potential to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Amphistomy increases leaf photosynthesis more in coastal than montane plants of Hawaiian ʻilima (Sida fallax)
Authors: Triplett Genevieve , Buckley Thomas N. , Muir Christopher D.
Published: February 2024

Premise

The adaptive significance of amphistomy (stomata on both upper and lower leaf surfaces) is unresolved. A widespread association between amphistomy and open, sunny habitats suggests the adaptive benefit of amphistomy may be greatest in these contexts, but this hypothesis has not been tested experimentally. Understanding amphistomy informs its potential as a target for crop improvement and paleoenvironment reconstruction.

Methods

We developed a method to quantify “amphistomy advantage” () as the log‐ratio of photosynthesis in an amphistomatous leaf to that of the same leaf but with gas exchange blocked through the upper surface (pseudohypostomy). Humidity modulated stomatal conductance and thus enabled comparing photosynthesis at the same total stomatal conductance. We estimated and leaf traits in six coastal (open, sunny) and six montane (closed, shaded) populations of the indigenous Hawaiian species ʻilima (Sida fallax).

Results

Coastal ʻilima leaves benefit 4.04 times more from amphistomy than montane leaves. Evidence was equivocal with respect to two hypotheses: (1) that coastal leaves benefit more because they are thicker and have lower CO2 conductance through the internal airspace and (2) that they benefit more because they have similar conductance on each surface, as opposed to most conductance being through the lower surface.

Conclusions

This is the first direct experimental evidence that amphistomy increases photosynthesis, consistent with the hypothesis that parallel pathways through upper and lower mesophyll increase CO2 supply to chloroplasts. The prevalence of amphistomatous leaves in open, sunny habitats can partially be explained by the increased benefit of amphistomy in “sun” leaves, but the mechanistic basis remains uncertain.
Donors' self‐ and other‐oriented motives for selecting charitable causes
Authors: Thottam Aakash K. , Chapman Cassandra M. , Leszczyc Peter Popkowski
Published: February 2024

Millions of charities compete for charitable donations, yet the underlying factors influencing individuals' preferences for specific causes remain relatively poorly understood. Building upon the ongoing scholarly debate about whether charitable behaviors are more altruistically or egoistically motivated, this study employs a self and other orientation framework to explore the preferences captured in a community survey (N = 987) to identify the various motivations relevant to donors' decision‐making processes. Our study contributes significantly to our understanding of charitable cause selection. First, it uncovers diverse motives directly endorsed by donors, offering insight into the multifaceted factors influencing preferences. Second, it unveils distinctive constellations of motives related to self and other orientations, shedding light on the underlying drivers of charitable actions. Third, it delineates the impact of various identity motives on charitable preferences. Specifically, we find that self‐oriented motives are associated with preferences for environmental and research causes, while other‐oriented motives exhibit a strong link with preferences for housing and development causes. Additionally, a combination of self and other motives shapes preferences for health, social services, emergency, and international causes. This complex interplay highlights that prosocial behavior is susceptible to a plurality of motives and cannot be solely understood through a binary distinction of altruism versus egoism. The study also contributes to the broader understanding of the psychology of charitable giving and has implications for fundraising design in a competitive market.
Autism spectrum disorder, extremism and risk assessment
Authors: Allely Clare S. , Jouenne Emma , Westphal Alexander , Staufenberg Ekkehart , Murphy David
Published: February 2024

Background

To date, there is no evidence supporting the existence of an association between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and extremism in the general population. However, there is increasing recognition that several features of ASD may provide the context of vulnerability to engage in extremist behaviour.

Aims

This paper sets out the case for a dedicated clinical approach to better integrate clinical risk appraisal processes with an assessment of ASD individuals' vulnerabilities within the Criminal Justice System.

Methods and Results

In this paper the Framework for the Assessment of Risk & Protection in Offenders on the Autistic Spectrum (FARAS): A Guide for Risk Assessors Working with Offenders on the Autistic Spectrum is explored. In developing the FARAS, Al‐Attar proposed seven facets of ASD that ‘may have different functional links with push and pull factors to terrorism’ (p. 928), which include circumscribed interests; rich vivid fantasy and impaired social imagination; need for order, rules, rituals, routine and predictability; obsessionality, repetition and collecting; social interaction and communication difficulties; cognitive styles and Sensory processing.

Discussion and Conclusion

We describe the FARAS within the context of the most widely used clinical risk appraisal ‘aide memoire’ instruments integral to the Structured Professional Judgement of risk process, namely the HCR20v3.
The adaptability of the Pulsta valve to the diverse main pulmonary artery shape of native right ventricular outflow tract disease
Authors: Park Woo Young , Kim Gi Beom , Lee Sang Yun , Kim Ah Young , Choi Jae Young , Jang So Ick , Kim Seong Ho , Cha Seul Gi , Wang Jou‐Kou , Lin Ming‐Tai , Chen Chun‐An
Published: February 2024

Background

Pulsta valve is increasingly used for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in patients with a large native right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). This study aims to elucidate the outcomes of Pulsta valve implantation within the native RVOT and assess its adaptability to various native main pulmonary artery (PA) anatomies.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study included 182 patients with moderate to severe pulmonary regurgitation in the native RVOT who underwent PPVI with Pulsta valves® between February 2016 and August 2023 at five Korean and Taiwanese tertiary referral centers.

Results

Pulsta valve implantation was successful in 179 out of 182 patients (98.4%) with an average age of 26.7 ± 11.0 years. The median follow‐up duration was 29 months. Baseline assessments revealed enlarged right ventricle (RV) volume (mean indexed RV end‐diastolic volume: 163.1 (interquartile range, IQR: 152.0–180.3 mL/m²), which significantly decreased to 123.6(IQR: 106.6–137.5 mL/m2 after 1 year. The main PA types were classified as pyramidal (3.8%), straight (38.5%), reverse pyramidal (13.2%), convex (26.4%), and concave (18.1%) shapes. Pulsta valve placement was adapted, with distal main PA for pyramidal shapes and proximal or mid‐PA for reverse pyramidal shapes. Two patients experienced Pulsta valve embolization to RV, requiring surgical removal, and one patient encountered valve migration to the distal main PA, necessitating surgical fixation.

Conclusions

Customized valve insertion sites are pivotal in self‐expandable PPVI considering diverse native RVOT shape. The rather soft and compact structure of the Pulsta valve has characteristics to are adaptable to diverse native RVOT geometries.
Effects of added resulting flours from heat‐treated Bambara groundnut seeds on properties of composite Bambara groundnuts–wheat dough and bread
Authors: Mukwevho Peter , Emmambux M. Naushad
Published: February 2024

Background

This work determined the effect of compositing wheat flour with the resulting flour (15% and 30%) from heat‐treated Bambara seeds on dough rheology and breadmaking properties. Bambara seeds (conditioned 53% moisture) were infrared or microwave heat (1200 W at 130°C) treated alone and in combination. Mixolab, Alveograph, and the creep and recovery test were used to determine the rheological properties of composite dough. A rheofementometer was used to elucidate composite dough behavior during proofing. Bread texture was determined using a texture analyzer and bread characteristics such as loaf volume and size were also determined.

Results

The results showed that the principal component analysis (PCA) explained 67.4% of variations, with Component 1 explaining 34.4% and Component 2 explaining 33%. From the PCA, mixolab parameters, such as WA, protein weakening, and starch behavior parameters (C3–C5), were a better predictor of composite dough behavior than the alveograph and the creep and recovery test. According to the PCA plot, samples composited with 15% Bambara groundnut flour from 53% moisture conditioning and heat treated with a combination of microwave and infrared closely resemble the wheat dough and bread.

Conclusion

PCA showed that composites made with flours from the 53% moisture‐conditioned Bambara groundnut seeds and heat‐treated using a combination of microwave and infrared were closer to wheat, particularly those composited with 15% Bambara groundnut flour.

Significance

This study provides the nutrient‐dense Bambara groundnut flours from heat‐treated seeds as a suitable alternative to improve the nutritional quality of composite wheat bread. The study also provides insight into the composite dough's rheological and bread physical properties.
Bioprosthetic pulmonary valve dysfunction in a primary cardiac sarcoma survivor: Clinical considerations and treatment options
Authors: Maione Davide , De Luca Antonio , Pezzato Andrea , Vitrella Giancarlo , Perkan Andrea , Rauber Elisabetta , Butera Gianfranco , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

The case highlights the good survival after radical surgery and chemotherapy of a cardiac sarcoma, and the need for close follow‐up due to possible early postsurgical complications.
Forequarter amputation for open scapulothoracic dissociation: A case report and surgical technique
Authors: Upreti Arun , Dhakal Dibya Purush , Paudel Subarna , Bishowkarma Sagar , Ray Umesh
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Scapulothoracic dissociation is a rare upper extremity injury caused by high‐velocity trauma over anterolateral shoulder leading to disruption of scapulothoracic articulation. It is considered as a limb threatening injury. Very few cases of scapulothoracic dissociation have been reported in medical literature. In this article, we report a unique case of open injury involving laterally displaced and comminuted scapula accompanied by redundant acromioclavicular joint, total brachial plexus injury, and complete transection of brachial artery. The patient underwent a forequarter amputation after a failed vascular repair.
Compounds Consisting of Quinazoline, Ibuprofen, and Amino Acids with Cytotoxic and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects
Authors: Garduño‐Villavicencio Luis Roberto , Martínez‐Ortega Ulises , Ortiz‐Sánchez Elizabeth , Tinajero‐Rodríguez José Manuel , Hernández‐Luis Francisco
Published: February 2024

In this research work, a series of 16 quinazoline derivatives bearing ibuprofen and an amino acid were designed as inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase domain (EGFR‐TKD) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) with the intention of presenting dual action in their biological behavior. The designed compounds were synthesized and assessed for cytotoxicity on epithelial cancer cells lines (AGS, A‐431, MCF‐7, MDA‐MB‐231) and epithelial non‐tumorigenic cell line (HaCaT). From this evaluation, derivative 6 was observed to exhibit higher cytotoxic potency (IC50) than gefitinib (reference drug) on three cancer cell lines (0.034 μM in A‐431, 2.67 μM in MCF‐7, and 3.64 μM in AGS) without showing activity on the non‐tumorigenic cell line (>100 μM). Furthermore, assessment of EGFR‐TKD inhibition by 6 showed a discreet difference compared to gefitinib. Additionally, 6 was used to conduct an in vivo anti‐inflammatory assay using the 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐3‐acetate (TPA) method, and it was shown to be 5 times more potent than ibuprofen. Molecular dynamics studies of EGFR‐TKD revealed interactions between compound 6 and M793. On the other hand, one significant interaction was observed for COX‐2, involving S531. The RMSD graph indicated that the ligand remained stable in 50 ns.