bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Novel Kidney Biomarkers in Patients With Cirrhosis and After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Asrani Sumeet K. , Shankar Nagasri , da Graca Briget , Nadim Mitra K. , Cardenas Andres
Published: October 2021

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are important drivers of morbidity and mortality in patients with cirrhosis before and after liver transplantation (LT). In this review, we examine the role of novel kidney biomarkers for early recognition of kidney injury. Studies are limited by lack of reference standards, heterogeneous definitions of outcomes and biomarker cutoffs, and inconsistent diagnostic performance. Overall, a change in biomarker is more relevant than an absolute cutoff. Cystatin C and urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (uNGAL) are the most studied candidate biomarkers and identify AKI or progression of AKI earlier than serum creatinine (sCr). Kidney injury molecule 1 and liver‐type fatty acid–binding protein (L‐FABP) also show potential. NGAL and interleukin 18 may play a role in differentiating acute tubular necrosis from other forms of AKI. Combining novel biomarkers with the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score may assist prognosis. Persistent elevations in select markers (eg, NGAL) can portend irreversible injury. Several pretransplantation markers (including sCr) predict posttransplantation kidney dysfunction. Pretransplantation assessment of clinical factors (eg, age, diabetes) and novel markers (osteopontin and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 [TIMP‐1]) may predict renal kidney recovery after LT. Intraoperative changes in biomarkers predict early post‐LT AKI. Prediction of CKD remains difficult, although a combination of biomarkers (eg, beta‐2 microglobulin, CD40) is promising. Novel biomarkers have yet to replace sCr in guideline‐based evaluation and management of kidney dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis. We propose a theoretical framework for practical incorporation of these biomarkers that considers patient characteristics (risk for irreversible injury), markers of functional and structural change, and assessment of the AKI‐CKD continuum to identify patients at the highest risk for progressive kidney disease before and after LT.
Transferrin Receptor Targeted Polyplexes Completely Comprised of Sequence‐Defined Components
Authors: Benli‐Hoppe Teoman , Göl Öztürk Şurhan , Öztürk Özgür , Berger Simone , Wagner Ernst , Yazdi Mina
Published: October 2021

Human transferrin protein (Tf) modified polyplexes have already displayed encouraging potential for receptor‐mediated nucleic acid delivery into tumors. The use of a blood‐derived targeting protein and polydisperse macromolecular cationic subunits however presents a practical challenge for pharmaceutical grade production. Here, Tf receptor (TfR) targeted small interfering RNA (siRNA) polyplexes are designed that are completely composed of synthetic, monodisperse, and sequence‐defined subunits generated by solid‐phase supported synthesis. An optimized cationizable lipo‐oligoaminoamide (lipo‐OAA) is used for siRNA core polyplex formation, and a retro‐enantio peptide (reTfR) attached via a monodisperse polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer via click chemistry is applied for targeting. Improved gene silencing is demonstrated in TfR‐expressing KB and DU145 cells. Analogous plasmid DNA (pDNA) polyplexes are successfully used for receptor‐mediated gene delivery in TfR‐rich K562 cells and Neuro2a cells. Six lipo‐OAAs differing in their lipidic domain and redox‐sensitive attachment of lipid residues are tested in order to evaluate the impact of core polyplex stability on receptor‐dependent gene transfer.
Upstream market structure and the timing of technology adoption
Authors: Alipranti Maria , Petrakis Emmanuel
Published: October 2021

We study the timing of new cost‐reducing technology adoption in vertically related markets with either upstream monopoly or upstream separate suppliers. We find that technology adoption in the downstream market can take place earlier under upstream monopoly than under upstream separate suppliers. Hence, an upstream monopoly supplier can accelerate the adoption of new technology downstream. We also show that this finding does not depend on the particular features of a vertically related market, such as the contract type through which trading is conducted or the mode of downstream competition.
Does internationalization strategy promote enterprise innovation performance?—The moderating effect of environmental complexity
Authors: Xiao Peng , Sun Xiaoxia
Published: October 2021

This study aims to investigate the relationships between two types of internationalization degree and innovation performance in the context of enterprises and the moderating role of environmental complexity in such relationships. The results show that internationalization depth is positively related to innovation performance and environmental complexity negatively moderates the relationship between internationalization depth and innovation performance. Moreover, internationalization breadth and innovation performance have a positive relationship, but environmental complexity does not have a significant effect on the relationship between internationalization breadth and innovation performance. This study highlights the positive role of internationalization degree in innovation performance and advances the understanding of environmental complexity by proposing that the effects of environmental complexity on such relationships are contingent on process of firms' internationalization.
Effects of different imidazole accelerators on curing behavior and cross‐linked network of epoxy resin/phenolic resin/benzoxazine ternary system
Authors: Gou Haolan , Zhao Yingying , Zhou Yanglong , Wei Wei , Fei Xiaoma , Li Xiaojie , Liu Xiaoya
Published: October 2021

For the molding compounds used in electronic packaging, curing accelerators play a significant effect on the curing behavior of thermosetting resins, thus the cross‐linked structure and performance of the cured product. In this study, nine commercially available imidazole compounds, divided into three types, were introduced into a polyfunctional epoxy resin (E1)/XYLOK phenolic resin (P1)/MDA benzoxazine (B1) ternary system to reduce the curing temperature for molding processing. To understand the cross‐linked structure of the cured product, the ternary system was divided into unitary system and binary system, and the curing behavior and chemical structure of each system was monitored by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform‐infrared systematically. Due to the nucleophilicity of tertiary amines influenced by the steric hindrance effect, it was discovered that the reaction activity of epoxy resin initiated by nine imidazole compounds, was significantly different. However, the ring opening of benzoxazine occurs at a high temperature, even catalyzed with imidazoles, and its curing behavior was nearly the same owing to the unique ring‐opening mechanism initiated by active hydrogen of imidazole. In addition, phenolic resin elevates reaction activity for both epoxy resin and benzoxazine. The cross‐linked structure of E1P1B1 ternary system was proposed based on the experimental results from each system. It suggested that the formed network of the E1P1B1 cured product with Type I and II imidazoles is mainly IPN structure, while the cured products of E1P1B1 + Type III is the copolymerization of epoxy, phenolic and benzoxazine. This paper systematically illustrated the ideal chemical structures of epoxy resin/phenolic resin/benzoxazine ternary system with different imidazole compounds, which is valuable for industrial application of resin‐based materials.
Factors associated with upper limb function in breast cancer survivors
Authors: Roldán‐Jiménez Cristina , Martín‐Martín Jaime , Pajares Bella , Ribelles Nuria , Alba Emilio , Cuesta‐Vargas Antonio I.
Published: October 2021

Background

Breast cancer survivors may have side effects from treatment, such as impaired upper limb function after surgery, which may be affected by a range of factors.

Objective

To analyze the association between upper limb function and strength, fear avoidance, and central sensitization symptoms among breast cancer survivors, and to explore how these variables are associated with upper limb function.

Design

Validation cohort.

Setting

Institutional practice at a public hospital.

Patients

One hundred seventy‐four breast cancer survivors who had been undergone surgery for a primary tumor.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

Upper limb function was measured by the Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI‐Sp). Independent outcomes were: handgrip strength, which was measured using a Jamar dynamometer on the dominant side; fear avoidance, measured using the Fear‐Avoidance Components Scale (FACS‐Sp); and central sensitization symptoms, which were measured using the Central Sensitisation Inventory (CSI‐Sp). A linear regression model explaining the ULFI‐Sp results was constructed with the variables.

Results

The regression model was significant (F = 46.826; p < .0001), and explained 45% of the variance of the ULFI values. All variables showed strong associations with upper limb function.

Conclusions

Greater upper limb function is associated with higher grip strength, lower fear‐avoidance behavior and fewer central sensitization symptoms among breast cancer survivors. These variables explained 45% of the upper limb function in the regression model, and concur with earlier research showing that factors such as central sensitization symptoms and kinesiophobia negatively affect upper limb function in such patients. Clinicians should therefore take into account strength, fear avoidance, and central sensitization symptoms when considering interventions aimed at improving upper limb function among breast cancer survivors.
The mechanochemical Friedel‐Crafts polymerization as a solvent‐free cross‐linking approach toward microporous polymers
Authors: Krusenbaum Annika , Geisler Jonathan , Kraus Fabien Joel Leon , Grätz Sven , Höfler Mark Valentin , Gutmann Torsten , Borchardt Lars
Published: October 2021

Herein we report the mechanochemical Friedel‐Crafts alkylation of 1,3,5‐triphenylbenzene (TPB) with two organochloride cross‐linking agents, dichloromethane (DCM) and chloroform (CHCl3), respectively. During a thorough milling parameter evaluation, the DCM‐linked polymers were found to be flexible and extremely sensitive toward parameter changes, which even enables the synthesis of a polymer with a SSABET of 1670 m2/g, on par with the solution‐based reference. Contrary, CHCl3‐linked polymers are exhibiting a rigid structure, with a high porosity that is widely unaffected by parameter changes. As a result, a polymer with a SSABET of 1280 m2/g could be generated in as little as 30 minutes, outperforming the reported literature analogue in terms of synthesis time and SSABET. To underline the environmental benefits of our fast and solvent‐free synthesis approach, the green metrics are discussed, revealing an enhancement of the mass intensity, mass productivity and the E‐factor, as well as of synthesis time and the work‐up in comparison to the classical synthesis. Therefore, the mechanochemical polymerization is presented as a versatile tool, enabling the generation of highly porous polymers within short reaction times, with a minimal use of chlorinated cross‐linker and with the possibility of a post polymerization modification.
Selenophene‐containing conjugated polymers for supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Yıldız Dilber Esra , Cevher Duygu , Yasa Mustafa , Cirpan Ali , Toppare Levent
Published: October 2021

In recent years, studies on conjugated polymers have strengthened the researchers' thought that such polymers can play an essential role in developing new generation energy storage devices. Hence conjugated polymer supercapacitor studies have accelerated. In the present work, selenophene‐containing conjugated polymers previously synthesized via palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki polymerization reaction were used in the preparation of conjugated polymer‐based supercapacitor electrodes. The structure and surface morphology of conjugated polymers were determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The selenophene‐containing two conjugated polymer electrodes (ITO/Polymer) were fabricated. The electrochemical behavior of the conjugated polymer electrodes was evaluated through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The specific capacity of ITO/CP1 electrode at 5 mV/s are 161.2 and 47 (Fg−1) for 0.1 mg and 1.2 mg, respectively. The specific capacity of ITO/CP2 at 5 mV/s electrode are 511 and 108.85 (Fg−1) for 0.08 mg and 0.70 mg, respectively. The time constants were determined as 10 and 625 ms for ITO/CP1 and CP2/ITO electrodes, respectively.
Cavitary lung lesions in a neonate: Potential manifestation of COVID‐19 related multisystem inflammatory syndrome
Authors: Bakhle Anish , Sreekumar Kavita , Baracho Bonny , Sardessai Sanjay , Silveira Maria Piedade
Published: October 2021

Background

The hyperinflammatory state of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) predisposes to thromboembolic complications. We report a neonate with multiple cavitary lesions in lung, which we suspect could be a manifestation of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in neonate (MIS‐N) following maternal COVID‐19 infection during pregnancy.

Case Report

Eight‐day‐old neonate was referred with fever and fast breathing. Mother was positive for COVID‐19 in 29th week. COVID‐19 reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction was negative, however, antibodies were positive. He had increased leucocyte count, and elevated levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase, and d‐dimer along with bilateral reticulonodular opacities on chest radiograph and multiple nodules with evidence of cavitation in both lungs on chest tomography. All cultures were negative. A possible diagnosis of MIS was made. Infant was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) which he responded to with resolution of symptoms.

Conclusion

Neonates exposed to COVID‐19 should be evaluated for thromboembolic complications and IVIG can be one of the treatment modalities.
Transgenic double‐stranded RNA rice, a potential strategy for controlling striped stem borer (Chilo suppressalis)
Authors: Mao Cui , Zhu Xiaoping , Wang Peipei , Sun Yajie , Huang Renliang , Zhao Mingchao , Hull J Joe , Lin Yongjun , Zhou Fei , Chen Hao , Ma Weihua
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Although the striped stem borer (SSB, Chilo suppressalis Walker) is a devastating pest of rice that causes significant economic losses, management options are currently limited. Plant‐mediated RNA interference (RNAi) is an emerging crop protection technique in which transgenic plants are modified to express insect‐specific double‐stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) that trigger RNAi silencing in target pests.

RESULT

In this study, an RNAi‐based screen of 35 candidate SSB genes identified a small heat shock protein gene (CssHsp) as a potential plant‐based RNAi target. To assess its utility in planta, a total of 39 transgenic rice plants were generated, with 11 independent transformants found to contain a single copy of the dsCssHsp expression cassette. In life‐time feeding bioassays, three transgenic lines (DS10, DS35, DS36) were found to have significant negative impacts on SSB populations. After feeding for 8 days, mortality in the three transgenic lines exceeded 60%. By pupation, mortality further increased to 90% and few SSB survived to eclosion. Gene expression analyses confirmed that CssHsp transcript levels were significantly reduced after feeding on the transgenic dsCssHsp rice.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate the potential for developing a plant‐mediated RNAi strategy targeting CssHsp as a more biorational field‐based approach for SSB control. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pulse Programming of Resistive States of a Benzothieno[3,2‐B][1]‐Benzothiophene‐Based Organic Memristive Device with High Endurance
Authors: Prudnikov Nikita V. , Malakhova Yulia N. , Emelyanov Andrey V. , Borshchev Oleg V. , Skorotetcky Maxim S. , Polinskaya Marina S. , Peregudova Svetlana M. , Barteneva Valeria M. , Demin Vyacheslav A. , Feigin Lev A. , Chvalun Sergey N. , Ponomarenko Sergey A. , Erokhin Victor V.
Published: October 2021

Organic memristive devices are promising elements to be used in memory tasks, neuromorphic systems, and bioelectronics as hardware analogs of synapses. Among other materials, small molecules are considered in this field as candidates with more adjustable properties and fine chemical structures. Herein, the first organic memristive device based on benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]‐benzothiophene (BTBT) siloxane dimer is reported. The device resistance programming by voltage pulses with various control parameters is demonstrated: amplitude, frequency, and pulse duty cycle. It is proved that the device has at least four different resistive states in each case. In addition, the device shows 2.5 × 104 cycles of sustainable operation in the endurance test with ROFF/RON ratio exceeding 5.
Sensitivity of a simple atmospheric model to changing surface friction with implications for seasonal prediction
Authors: Wicker Wolfgang , Greatbatch Richard J. , Claus Martin
Published: October 2021

An ensemble of idealized experiments with the simplified general circulation model PUMA is used to analyze the response to reduced surface friction, that is a strengthening of the eddy‐driven jet, a weakening of the Eulerian mean overturning, and a suppression of baroclinic instability. The suppression of baroclinic instability is caused by an effect called the barotropic governor by which increased horizontal shear restricts the ability of baroclinic disturbances to convert available potential energy into kinetic energy. This governor effect ensures that the residual circulation and Eliassen–Palm flux (EP flux) divergence are largely invariant to the surface friction parameter despite the connection between surface friction, the Eulerian mean overturning, and the eddy‐momentum flux. The suppression of instability leads to an increase in persistence measured by the period of peak variance on synoptic time‐scales and a strengthened signal‐to‐noise ratio on seasonal time‐scales. These findings suggest that the signal‐to‐noise paradox seen in the context of seasonal prediction can be caused by excess mechanical damping in atmospheric prediction systems inhibiting the barotropic governor effect.
Practical Long‐Distance Measurement‐Device‐Independent Quantum Key Distribution By Four‐Intensity Protocol
Authors: Hu Xiao‐Long , Jiang Cong , Yu Zong‐Wen , Wang Xiang‐Bin
Published: October 2021

Quantum key distribution (QKD) can provide unconditionally secure private communication between two remote parties. The measurement‐device‐independent (MDI) QKD can remove all security loopholes in measurement devices. However, the large value of the observed error rate in X basis has severely limited its key rate. The four‐intensity protocol with fully optimized post data processing can improve the key rate and distance of MDI‐QKD effectively. In this paper, the four‐intensity MDI‐QKD protocol is reviewed. In the four‐intensity protocol, each of Alice and Bob uses one intensity in Z basis and three intensities in X basis (normally including one vacuum). This improves the number of effective bits in Z basis. The joint mathematical treatment for statistical fluctuation and the parameter scan pointing directly to the final key rate are applied to reduce the effect of statistical fluctuation. The double scanning method further improves the key rate and the secure distance of the four‐intensity protocol. These have greatly improved the performance of the protocol with finite‐key effects. So far, many MDI‐QKD experiments are based on the four‐intensity protocol. The successful results of these experiments have clearly shown the superiority of the four‐intensity protocol in practical long‐distance MDI‐QKD.
Imaging Spin‐Wave Damping Underneath Metals Using Electron Spins in Diamond
Authors: Bertelli Iacopo , Simon Brecht G. , Yu Tao , Aarts Jan , Bauer Gerrit E. W. , Blanter Yaroslav M. , van der Sar Toeno
Published: October 2021

Spin waves in magnetic insulators are low‐damping signal carriers that can enable a new generation of spintronic devices. The excitation, control, and detection of spin waves by metal electrodes is crucial for interfacing these devices to electrical circuits. As such, it is important to understand metal‐induced damping of spin‐wave transport, but characterizing this process requires access to the underlying magnetic films. Here it is shown that electronic sensor spins in diamond enable imaging of spin waves that propagate underneath metals in magnetic insulators. This capability is then used to reveal a 100‐fold metal‐induced increase in spin‐wave damping. The damping enhancement is attributed to spin‐wave‐induced electrical currents as well as, above a certain frequency, three‐magnon scattering processes. This interpretation is supported by deriving expressions for the current‐induced damping and the three‐magnon threshold from the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert equation that agree well with the observations. The detection of buried scattering centers further highlights the technique's power for assessing spintronic device quality. These results open new avenues for studying metal – spin‐wave interactions and provide access to interfacial processes such as spin‐wave injection via the spin‐Hall effect.
Bankfull shear velocity predicts embeddedness and silt cover in gravel streambeds
Authors: Czuba Jonathan A. , Hirschler Mallory , Pratt Elizabeth A. , Villamagna Amy , Angermeier Paul L.
Published: October 2021

Excess fine sediment (<2 mm) deposition on gravel streambeds can degrade habitat quality for stream biota. Two measures of fine sediment deposition include embeddedness and silt cover (<62.5 μm). Embeddedness measures fine sediment in interstitial pore spaces, whereas silt cover, primarily deposited during low flows, measures fine sediment draped on the streambed's surface. Here, we demonstrate that a baseline level of embeddedness and a maximum value of silt cover can be predicted from bankfull shear velocity, which can be estimated from river channel and streamflow characteristics, independently of knowing the sediment supply. We derive an equation for bankfull shear velocity that only requires knowing bankfull flow, channel width, and channel slope, which can be readily obtained in the United States from freely available, remotely sensed data. We apply this methodology to data collected at 30 sites in the Piedmont region of Virginia and North Carolina. This work is an important step in developing statistical models of stream ecosystems in which geophysical variables can predict embeddedness and silt cover, which commonly limit biotic assemblages.
Hollow Atomic Force Microscopy Cantilevers with Nanoscale Wall Thicknesses
Authors: Cha Wujoon , Campbell Matthew F. , Hasz Kathryn , Nicaise Samuel M. , Lilley Drew E. , Sato Takaaki , Carpick Robert W. , Bargatin Igor
Published: October 2021

In atomic force microscopy, the cantilever probe is a critical component whose properties determine the resolution and speed at which images with nanoscale resolution can be obtained. Traditional cantilevers, which have moderate resonant frequencies and high quality factors, have relatively long response times and low bandwidths. In addition, cantilevers can be easily damaged by excessive deformation, and tips can be damaged by wear, requiring them to be replaced frequently. To address these issues, new cantilever probes that have hollow cross‐sections and walls of nanoscale thicknesses made of alumina deposited by atomic layer deposition are introduced. It is demonstrated that the probes exhibit spring constants up to ≈100 times lower and bandwidths up to ≈50 times higher in air than their typical solid counterparts, allowing them to react to topography changes more quickly. Moreover, it is shown that the enhanced robustness of the hollow cantilevers enables them to withstand large bending displacements more readily and to be more resistant to tip wear.
Biomechanical Motion‐Activated Endogenous Wound Healing through LBL Self‐Powered Nanocomposite Repairer with pH‐Responsive Anti‐Inflammatory Effect
Authors: Yuan Renqiang , Yang Ning , Fan Shanwen , Huang Yueru , You Dan , Wang Jieran , Zhang Qianli , Chu Cuilin , Chen Zaozao , Liu Ling , Ge Liqin
Published: October 2021

Wound care is still worthy of concern, and effective measures such as electrical stimulating therapy (EST) have sparked compellingly for wound repair. Especially, portable and point‐of‐care EST devices get extremely desired but these are often limited by inevitable external power sources, lack of biological functions, and mechanical properties conforming to skin tissue. Herein, a dress‐on‐person self‐powered nanocomposite bioactive repairer of wound is designed. As such, the cooperation of the film prepared by layer‐by‐layer self‐assembling 2‐hydroxypropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan (HTCC), alginate (ALG), and poly‐dopamine/Fe3+ nanoparticles (PFNs), with a self‐powered nanogenerator (SN) driven by motion into a nanocomposite repairer (HAP/SN‐NR) is conducted. The HAP/SN‐NR not only guides cell behavior (proliferation and migration rate ≈61.7%, ≈52.3%), but also facilitates neovascularization (enhanced CD31 expression >4‐fold) through its self‐powered EST, and the endogenous wound closure with no inflammatory in rats owing to reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐clearance of HAP/SN‐NR in vitro/vivo through responsively releasing poly‐dopamine nanoparticles at wound pH. Enormous efforts illustrate that the repairer is endowed with high self‐adhesion to tissue, self‐healing, and biodegradation, accelerating wound healing (50% closure ≈5 days). This strategy sheds light on novel multifunctional portable sensor‐type dressings and propels the development of intelligent medical devices.
Experimental investigation and prediction on the effects of glass and bamboo fibers as key mixture parameters in reinforced concretes using support vector regression
Authors: Mathew Ance , Muthukannan Muthiah , Ramaswamy Sankaralingam Narayanasamy
Published: October 2021

Nowadays, reinforcement of fiber is necessary for concrete to enhance its quality with mechanical characteristics. The main objective of this work is to determine the mechanical properties of bamboo and glass fiber reinforced concrete. In concrete, E‐glass and bamboo fibers are mixed with three different proportions such as 25:75, 50:50, and 75:25. Cubical‐, beam‐, and cylindrical‐shaped concrete structures are developed for mechanical testing. After the curing period, the cubical structures are utilized for compressive strength testing, the cylindrical specimen for split tensile testing, and the beam‐shaped specimen for flexural strength testing. From the outcomes, 1% fiber substance (glass and bamboo fiber proportions of 75:25) provides better split tensile strength 4.13 N/mm2, compressive strength 42.08 N/mm2, and flexural strength 7.7 N/mm2. The comparative analysis of the proposed concrete composition with the conventional concrete mixture is also carried out. The experimental results are validated using support vector regression, and such predicted outcomes are closer to the experimented values. Furthermore, the ETABS platform is utilized for validating the proposed hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC) with single reinforcement‐like glass particles. In which, the testing properties like bending moment, shear force, and axial force are favorable for the HFRC.
Study on mechanical properties of macro‐synthetic fiber‐reinforced iron ore tailings concrete
Authors: Zhao Jiangshan , Su Youpo , Shi Yunxing , Wang Qingxuan , Ni Kun
Published: October 2021

Macro‐synthetic fiber‐reinforced iron ore tailings (IOT) concrete is an environment‐friendly building material featured by recycling IOT and improving performance of IOT concrete due to fiber incorporation. In this study, the mechanical properties of macro‐synthetic fiber‐reinforced concrete incorporating IOT were investigated. Two different replacement ratios of IOT (i.e., 0% and 50%) and six types of macro‐synthetic fibers at 1.0 vol% were adopted to investigate the effects of IOT, aspect ratio, elastic modulus, and tensile strength of macro‐synthetic fibers on mechanical properties of concrete. The results indicate that the concrete with IOT for natural sand (NS) replacement in 50 wt% demonstrates no loss in compressive strength and a minor loss of 7.67% in fracture energy, but the incorporation of IOT lowers splitting tensile strength and limit of proportionality, especially the splitting tensile strength with a decrease of 18.50%. The splitting tensile strength, equivalent flexural tensile strength, residual flexural tensile strength, and fracture energy were notably improved by adding macro‐synthetic fibers. Experimental results using Tukey test and Student's t test demonstrated that the fiber aspect ratio was more effective in improving equivalent flexural tensile strength, residual flexural tensile strength, and fracture energy than the elastic modulus and tensile strength of fibers, and the residual flexural tensile strength fR,4 was enhanced by 146.34% when increasing the fiber aspect ratio from 36 to 60.
Enabling the Facile Synthesis of Arenes by Transition Metal Catalyzed Decarbonylation Methodology
Authors: Sinha Soumya Kumar , Roy Triptesh Kumar , Modak Atanu , Maiti Debabrata
Published: October 2021

Transition metal‐catalyzed decarbonylation is an essential paradigm of synthetic organic chemistry. Decarbonylation offers a unique pathway to decoding the skeletal structure of arenes and enabling easy synthesis of structurally complicated molecules. Due to the omnipresence of carbonyl groups in a wide array of synthetically important complex molecules, the variety and scope of these transformations are enormous. As a result, the development of transition metal catalysts in such a simple decarbonylation reaction ranks among one of the most important topics in synthetic organic chemistry. Transition metals that have been employed range from 3d metals like V to second‐row transition metals like Pd. The growing potential of this methodology has driven the pioneers of synthetic organic chemistry into delving into the details of this transition metal‐catalyzed decarbonylation pathways. This review aims to take the readers through the employment of transition metals in various decarbonylation processes developed by our group, sticking not only to the scope and diversification of synthetically complex molecules, but also enabling the readers to understand the mechanistic insights, through computational and kinetic studies put forward in such reaction protocol, hoping to pave the way for future organic chemists to delve and hopefully solve the unique problems associated with this protocol.
Lack of evidence for differences in the spread of classic (Lagovirus europaeus/GI.1) and novel (Lagovirus europaeus/GI.2) rabbit haemorrhagic disease viruses in Europe and North Africa
Authors: Aguayo‐Adán Juan Antonio , Rouco Carlos , Delibes‐Mateos Miguel , Santoro Simone
Published: October 2021

Background

Fast‐spreading diseases affecting wildlife populations threaten biodiversity. Two caliciviruses, Lagovirus europaeus/GI.1 and Lagovirus europaeus/GI.2, caused rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) in wild rabbits. Despite having different characteristics, these variants spread quickly, posing a threat to wild rabbit populations.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a thorough review of the scientific literature and reports of international organisations of first detections of both variants of RHDV in the Euro‐Mediterranean region. We concentrated on this area to avoid bias due to intentional human introductions.

Results

The estimated mean spread rate of GI.2 was higher than that of GI.1 (GI.2: 479 km/year, range: 47–7346; GI.1: 330 km/year, 37–6248). These differences were not statistically significant. This lack of difference may be due to the interactions between each variant's virulence characteristics. Humans may have a dominant effect on their spread. Potential limitations associated with the observational process could have hindered our ability to identify statistical differences.

Conclusions

The lack of difference in the spread patterns of the two variants could be due to a biological cause, human facilitation or a lack of statistical power. Adapting protocols to detect diseases in wildlife using homogeneous criteria will be indispensable in the coming years.
Modulating hypoxia inducible factor‐1 by nanomaterials for effective cancer therapy
Authors: Sun Yun , Zhou Zhiguo , Yang Shiping , Yang Hong
Published: October 2021

Hypoxia, which is induced by abnormal tumor growth when it outstrips its oxygen supply, is a major character of cancer. The reaction of cells against hypoxia is mainly concentrated on the hypoxia‐induced transcription factors (HIFs), especially HIF‐1, which remain stabilized during hypoxia. Additionally, the oxygen‐independent mechanism of regulating HIF‐1 acts a vital part in different stages of tumor progression as well as chemo‐/radio‐/PDT resistance, resulting in poor curative effects and prognosis. In this review, we will outline the up‐to‐date information about how HIF‐1 interferes with tumor metastasis and therapy resistance, followed by a detailed introduction of motivating techniques based on various nanomaterials to interfere with HIF signaling for effective cancer therapy.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Functional analyses of mitoribosome 54S subunit devoid of mitochondria‐specific protein sequences
Authors: Santos Barbara , Zeng Rui , Jorge Sasa F. , Ferreira‐Junior Jose Ribamar , Barrientos Antoni , Barros Mario H.
Published: October 2021

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mitoribosomes are composed of a 54S large subunit (mtLSU) and a 37S small subunit (mtSSU). The two subunits altogether contain 73 mitoribosome proteins (MRPs) and two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs). Although mitoribosomes preserve some similarities with their bacterial counterparts, they have significantly diverged by acquiring new proteins, protein extensions, and new RNA segments, adapting the mitoribosome to the synthesis of highly hydrophobic membrane proteins. In this study, we investigated the functional relevance of mitochondria‐specific protein extensions at the C‐terminus (C) or N‐terminus (N) present in 19 proteins of the mtLSU. The studied mitochondria‐specific extensions consist of long tails and loops extending from globular domains that mainly interact with mitochondria‐specific proteins and 21S rRNA moieties extensions. The expression of variants devoid of extensions in uL4 (C), uL5 (N), uL13 (N), uL13 (C), uL16 (C), bL17 (N), bL17 (C), bL21 (24), uL22 (N), uL23 (N), uL23 (C), uL24 (C), bL27 (C), bL28 (N), bL28 (C), uL29 (N), uL29 (C), uL30 (C), bL31 (C), and bL32 (C) did not rescue the mitochondrial protein synthesis capacities and respiratory growth of the respective null mutants. On the contrary, the truncated form of the mitoribosome exit tunnel protein uL24 (N) yields a partially functional mitoribosome. Also, the removal of mitochondria‐specific sequences from uL1 (N), uL3 (N), uL16 (N), bL9 (N), bL19 (C), uL29 (C), and bL31 (N) did not affect the mitoribosome function and respiratory growth. The collection of mutants described here provides new means to study and evaluate defective assembly modules in the mitoribosome biogenesis process.
Reconciling Higgs physics and pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone dark matter in the S2HDM using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Biekötter Thomas , Olea-Romacho María Olalla
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We investigate a possible realization of pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone (pNG) dark matter in the framework of a singlet-extended 2 Higgs doublet model (S2HDM). pNG dark matter gained attraction due to the fact that direct-detection constraints can be avoided naturally because of the momentum-suppressed scattering cross sections, whereas the relic abundance of dark matter can nevertheless be accounted for via the usual thermal freeze-out mechanism. We confront the S2HDM with a multitude of theoretical and experimental constraints, paying special attention to the theoretical limitations on the scalar potential, such as vacuum stability and perturbativity. In addition, we discuss the complementarity between constraints related to the dark matter sector, on the one hand, and to the Higgs sector, on the other hand. In our numerical discussion we explore the Higgs funnel region with dark matter masses around 60 GeV using a genetic algorithm. We demonstrate that the S2HDM can easily account for the measured relic abundance while being in agreement with all relevant constraints. We also discuss whether the so-called center-of-galaxy excesses can be accommodated, possibly in combination with a Higgs boson at about 96 GeV that can be the origin of the LEP- and the CMS-excess observed at this mass in the b$$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

-quark and the diphoton final state, respectively.
Generalized holographic cosmology: low-redshift observational constraint
Authors: Khimphun Sunly , Lee Bum-Hoon , Tumurtushaa Gansukh
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Four-dimensional cosmological models are studied on a boundary of a five-dimensional Anti-de Sitter (AdS5) black hole with AdS Reissner-Nordström and scalar charged Reissner-Nordström black hole solutions, where we call the former a “Hairless” black hole and the latter a “Hairy” black hole. To obtain the Friedmann-Robertson-Walker (FRW) spacetime metric on the boundary of the AdS5 black hole, we employ Eddington-Finkelstein (EF) coordinates to the bulk geometry. We then derive modified Friedmann equations on a boundary of the AdS5 black hole via AdS/CFT correspondence and discuss its cosmological implications. The late-time acceleration of the universe is investigated in our models. The contributions coming from the bulk side is treated as dark energy source, and we perform MCMC analyses using observational data. Compared to the ΛCDM model, our models contain additional free parameters; therefore, to make a fair comparison, we use the Akaike information criterion (AIC) and the Bayesian information criterion (BIC) to analyze our results. Our numerical analyses show that our models can explain the observational data as reliable as the ΛCDM model does for the current data.
Apoptosis resistance of senescent cells is an intrinsic barrier for senolysis induced by cardiac glycosides
Authors: Deryabin Pavel I. , Shatrova Alla N. , Borodkina Aleksandra V.
Published: October 2021

Targeted elimination of senescent cells, senolysis, is one of the core trends in the anti-aging therapy. Cardiac glycosides were recently proved to be a broad-spectrum senolytics. Here we tested senolytic properties of cardiac glycosides towards human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Cardiac glycosides had no senolytic ability towards senescent hMSCs of various origins. Using biological and bioinformatic approaches we compared senescence development in ‘cardiac glycosides-sensitive’ A549 and ‘-insensitive’ hMSCs. The absence of senolysis was found to be mediated by the effective potassium import and increased apoptosis resistance in senescent hMSCs. Weakening “antiapoptotic defense” predisposes hMSCs to senolysis. We revealed that apoptosis resistance, previously recognized as a common characteristic of senescence, in fact, is not a general feature of senescent cells. Moreover, only apoptosis-prone senescent cells are sensitive to cardiac glycosides-induced senolysis. Thus, we can speculate that the effectiveness of senolysis might depend on whether senescent cells indeed become apoptosis-resistant as compared to their proliferating counterparts.

Graphic abstract
Free Flap microvascular pharyngeal closure results in improved dysphagia-specific quality of life following total laryngectomy
Authors: Cleere Eoin F. , Mamdouh Sherif , Devoy-Flood Emma , O’Callaghan Marie-Therese , Martin Fiachra , O’Sullivan John B. , Shine Neville , O’Neill James P.
Published: October 2021

Background

Total laryngectomy (TL) as either a primary or salvage treatment strategy remains an effective oncologic operation in the management of laryngeal cancer. Dysphagia is the most common complication following TL and this has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life (QOL). Following removal of the larynx, a number of pharyngeal closure techniques exist. We aimed to evaluate the effect pharyngeal closure techniques have on dysphagia-specific QOL postoperatively.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who had undergone TL at our institution (2014–2019). Patients alive at the time of study were invited to complete the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI). Outcomes were compared among Primary Closure (PC), Pedicled Pectoralis Major Myocutaneous Flap (PMMF) and Free Flap (FF) closure groups.

Results

There were 27 patients identified for inclusion. Eight patients (30%) underwent PC, 10 patients (37%) had PMMF-assisted closure and 9 patients (33%) underwent FF-assisted closure. Patients within the FF group scored consistently higher MDADI scores across all subscales (emotional, functional, physical, global) as well as composite MDADI score in comparison to the PC and PMMF groups. FF closure was associated with a reduced inpatient length of stay (LOS). Additionally, no significant differences in postoperative morbidity including rates of pharyngo-cutaneous fistula (PCF) were observed between groups.

Conclusions

We now advocate FF closure for our patients following salvage TL due to the improved dysphagia-specific QOL, reduced inpatient LOS and lack of additional surgical morbidity.

Level of evidence, Level III, therapeutic/prognostic study.
Data Preprocessing as a Service – Outsourcing der Datenvorverarbeitung für KI-Modelle mithilfe einer digitalen Plattform
Authors: Kureljusic Marko , Karger Erik
Published: October 2021

Sowohl in der Praxis als auch in der Wissenschaft kam es in den vergangenen Jahren zu einem zunehmenden Interesse an datenintensiven Verfahren, wie der künstlichen Intelligenz. Die Mehrheit dieser Data-Science-Projekte fokussierte sich auf den Erklärungsgehalt und die Robustheit der Modelle. Vernachlässigt wurde hierbei häufig der Prozess der Datenvorverarbeitung, obwohl dieser ca. 80 % der Zeit eines Data-Science-Projekts beansprucht. Im Rahmen der Datenvorverarbeitung, welche auch als Data Preprocessing bezeichnet wird, werden Daten akquiriert, bereinigt, transformiert und reduziert. Das Ziel dieser Vorgehensweise ist die Generierung eines Datensatzes, welcher sich für Trainings- und Testzwecke der Data-Science-Modelle eignet. Somit ist das Data Preprocessing ein erforderlicher Prozessschritt, der für das maschinelle Erlernen von korrekten Mustern und Zusammenhängen notwendig ist. Häufig scheitern Data-Science-Projekte jedoch an der mangelhaften Datenvorverarbeitung. So werden beispielsweise fehlerhafte Daten nicht vorab identifiziert, wodurch möglicherweise falsche Zusammenhänge erlernt werden. Dies führt dazu, dass der Erklärungsgehalt der Data-Science-Modelle signifikant verringert wird. Eine Möglichkeit, dieses Problem zu lösen, ist das Outsourcing der Datenvorverarbeitung an spezialisierte Fachkräfte. Mithilfe einer Plattform kann ein sicherer und automatisierter Datenaustausch zwischen Kunden und Dienstleistern gewährleistet werden. Der vorliegende Beitrag thematisiert, wie die Plattform für das Data Preprocessing genutzt werden kann, um eine effizientere und schnellere Bereitstellung der Daten zu ermöglichen.
Electrophysiology and the magnetic sense: a guide to best practice
Authors: Fenton Georgina E. , Nath Kamalika , Malkemper E. Pascal
Published: October 2021

Magnetoreception, sensing the Earth’s magnetic field, is used by many species in orientation and navigation. While this is established on the behavioural level, there is a severe lack in knowledge on the underlying neuronal mechanisms of this sense. A powerful technique to study the neuronal processing of magnetic cues is electrophysiology but, thus far, few studies have adopted this technique. Why is this the case? A fundamental problem is the introduction of electromagnetic noise (induction) caused by the magnetic stimuli, within electrophysiological recordings which, if too large, prevents feasible separation of neuronal signals from the induction artefacts. Here, we address the concerns surrounding the use of electromagnetic coils within electrophysiology experiments and assess whether these would prevent viable electrophysiological recordings within a generated magnetic field. We present calculations of the induced voltages in typical experimental situations and compare them against the neuronal signals measured with different electrophysiological techniques. Finally, we provide guidelines that should help limit and account for possible induction artefacts. In conclusion, if great care is taken, viable electrophysiological recordings from magnetoreceptive cells are achievable and promise to provide new insights on the neuronal basis of the magnetic sense.
Efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zeng Tianni , Fang Xiaojie , Lu Jinhua , Zhong Yazhen , Lin Xianlei , Lin Zechen , Wang Nan , Jiang Jing , Lin Shengyou
Published: October 2021

Background and objective

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies have shown promising prospects in colorectal cancer (CRC) immunotherapy; many clinical trials have been carried out. In this study, we sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ICI therapies in CRC by presenting a meta-analysis of relevant studies.

Methods

Databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched for studies concerning the efficacy and safety of ICI in colorectal cancer. The reported odds ratio (OR) or weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), and TRAEs ≥ 3 in the included studies were analyzed by fixed effects/random effects models.

Results

Three studies involving 667 patients with colorectal cancer were included in our meta-analysis. No significant difference between the immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies and conventional therapies in OS (WMD = 0.73, 95% CI − 3.09, 4.54; p = 0.71), in ORR (OR = 1.54, 95% CI 0.98, 2.40; p = 0.06), and in DCR (OR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.36, 2.61; p = 0.95). The median PFS of the ICI therapy group was shorter than that of the conventional therapy group (WMD =  − 0.10, 95% CI − 0.18, − 0.02; p = 0.02). At the same time, we also could not find a significant difference between the immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies and conventional therapies in TRAEs (OR = 1.56, 95% CI 0.11, 22.09; p = 0.74) and in TRAEs ≥ 3 (OR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.16, 5.65; p = 0.95).

Conclusion

Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies could not improve all survival endpoints to advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer patients. Whether immune checkpoint inhibitors should be the first choice of therapies for colorectal cancer patients with undetermined microsatellite status or not able to determine microsatellite status needs more related studies to prove.