bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Patient Risk Factors, Tumor Characteristics, and Treatment Modality With Poor Outcomes in Primary Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zakhem George A. , Pulavarty Akshay N. , Carucci John , Stevenson Mary L.
Published: December 2022

Importance

Primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is usually curable; however, a subset of patients develops poor outcomes, including local recurrence, nodal metastasis, distant metastasis, and disease-specific death.

Objectives

To evaluate all evidence-based reports of patient risk factors and tumor characteristics associated with poor outcomes in primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and to identify treatment modalities that minimize poor outcomes.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, and SCOPUS databases were searched for studies of the topic in humans, published in the English language, from database inception through February 8, 2022.

Study Selection

Two authors independently screened the identified articles and included those that were original research with a sample size of 10 patients or more and that assessed risk factors and/or treatment modalities associated with poor outcomes among patients with primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data extraction was performed by a single author, per international guidelines. The search terms, study objectives, and protocol methods were defined before study initiation. A total of 310 studies were included for full-text assessment. Owing to heterogeneity of the included studies, a random-effects model was used. Data analyses were performed from May 25 to September 15, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

For studies of risk factors, risk ratios and incidence proportions; and for treatment studies, incidence proportions.

Results

In all, 129 studies and a total of 137 449 patients with primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and 126 553 tumors were included in the meta-analysis. Several patient risk factors and tumor characteristics were associated with local recurrence, nodal metastasis, distant metastasis, disease-specific death, and all-cause death were identified. Among all factors reported by more than 1 study, the highest risks for local recurrence and disease-specific death were associated with tumor invasion beyond subcutaneous fat (risk ratio, 9.1 [95% CI, 2.8-29.2] and 10.4 [95% CI, 3.0- 36.3], respectively), and the highest risk of any metastasis was associated with perineural invasion (risk ratio, 5.0; 95% CI, 2.3-11.1). Patients who received Mohs micrographic surgery had the lowest incidence of nearly all poor outcomes; however, in some results, the 95% CIs overlapped with those of other treatment modalities.

Conclusions and Relevance

This meta-analysis identified the prognostic value of several risk factors and the effectiveness of the available treatment modalities. These findings carry important implications for the prognostication, workup, treatment, and follow-up of patients with primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO Identifier: CRD42022311250
Nuclear energy policy and city planning in the early days of nuclear energy development: Analysis of the construction process of the atomic center in Tokai Village
Authors: Inui Yasuyo
Published: December 2022

Tokai Village is a home to the first commercial nuclear power plant in Japan, and Nuclear Power Plants are directly adjacent to residential districts there. This study investigates the context of this situation by looking back around 1960 when the plants were built and clarifying the development project ideas and decision‐making processes that were involved in the planning. The main findings are the following: Japan Atomic Industrial Forum (JAIF) Inc. drafted the development plan for Tokai Village, founded Tokai Atomic Urban Development, acquired company sites. The Ibaraki Prefecture involved JAIF in making decisions on city planning of Tokai Village.
Adventitious Roots
Authors: Bellini Catherine
Published: December 2022

The root system of a plant is composed of the primary, lateral and adventitious roots (ARs). Lateral roots always develop from roots, whereas ARs form from stem or leaf‐derived cells. AR development (ARD) is part of the normal development of the plant and occurs naturally, like in most monocotyledonous for which they constitute the main root system or in many dicotyledonous species that propagate vegetatively. Adventitious rooting is an essential step for vegetative propagation of economically important horticultural and woody species as it allows clonal propagation and rapid fixation of superior genotypes prior to their introduction into production or breeding programmes. Development of ARs is a complex process that is affected by multiple endogenous and environmental factors, including phytohormones, light, nutritional status, associated stress responses, such as wounding, and genetic characteristics.

Key Concepts

ARs are a prerequisite for vegetative propagation of plants.

ARs arise from any organ of the plant but the root.

ARs originate from different cell types depending on the organ or the species.

Adventitious rooting is a complex quantitative genetic trait.

ARs are the main root system for monocots.

ARs can be adaptative response to environmental changes.

ARs can be induced by interaction with micro‐organisms such as mycorrhizae or bacteria

Auxin cross‐talks with other hormones to control adventitious rooting.
Selection of Knees With Subsequent Cartilage Thickness Loss Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging Semiquantitative Grading: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Biomarker Cohort
Authors: Wirth Wolfgang , Maschek Susanne , Wisser Anna , Guermazi Ali , Hunter David J. , Kwoh C. Kent , Nevitt Michael C. , Eckstein Felix , Roemer Frank W.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based articular pathologies are predictive of subsequent medial femorotibial compartment quantitative cartilage thickness loss and therefore suitable for enrichment of clinical trials with participants showing a high likelihood for structural progression.

Methods

Semiquantitative MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score (MOAKS) assessments at baseline and quantitative cartilage thickness measurements at baseline and year‐2 follow‐up were performed in 599 participants (age 62 years; body mass index 31 kg/m2; 59% female) from the Osteoarthritis Initiative–based Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Osteoarthritis Biomarkers Consortium. Knees were classified as medial femorotibial compartment (MFTC) progressors or nonprogressors based on MFTC cartilage thickness change (smallest detectable change threshold −111 μm). Logistic regression was used to investigate the association between baseline presence and severity of MFTC MOAKS pathologies with subsequent MFTC progression. The standardized response mean (SRM) was computed to estimate the sensitivity to change that can be achieved when selecting knees based on MOAKS pathologies.

Results

Presence of MFTC MOAKS cartilage damage (odds ratio [OR] 2.77 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.76, 4.36]), MFTC bone marrow lesions (OR 2.69 [95% CI 1.89, 3.83]), medial meniscus extrusion or damage (OR 2.21 [95% CI 1.37, 3.55]), as well as MOAKS severity subscales for cartilage and meniscus damage were associated with subsequent progression. The SRM was greater in knees with than in knees without the presence of these pathologies and was associated with the severity of those pathologies.

Conclusion

MRI‐based grading of articular pathologies makes it possible to specifically select progressor knees suitable for inclusion in clinical trials but also to identify knees in which treatment is not indicated (e.g., knees without cartilage damage despite presence of radiographic osteoarthritis).
Associations Between Patterns of Esophageal Dysmotility and Extra‐Intestinal Features in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Tucker Ana E. , Perin Jamie , Volkmann Elizabeth R. , Abdi Tsion , Shah Ami A. , Pandolfino John , Silver Richard M. , McMahan Zsuzsanna H.
Published: December 2022

Objective

The gastrointestinal tract is commonly involved in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) with varied manifestations. As our understanding of SSc gastrointestinal disease pathogenesis and risk stratification is limited, we sought to investigate whether patterns of esophageal dysfunction associate with specific clinical phenotypes in SSc.

Methods

Patients enrolled in the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center Research Registry who completed high‐resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) studies as part of their clinical care between 2011 and 2020 were identified. Associations between esophageal abnormalities on HREM (absent contractility [AC], ineffective esophageal motility [IEM], hypotensive lower esophageal sphincter [hypoLES]) and patient demographic information, clinical characteristics, and autoantibody profiles were examined.

Results

Ninety‐five patients with SSc had HREM data. Sixty‐five patients (68.4%) had AC (37 patients with only AC, 28 patients with AC and a hypoLES), 9 patients (9.5%) had IEM, and 11 patients (11.6%) had normal studies. AC was significantly associated with diffuse cutaneous disease (38.5% versus 10.0%; P < 0.01), more severe Raynaud's phenomenon, including digital pits, ulcers, or gangrene (56.9% versus 30.0%; P = 0.02), and reduced median diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide (50.6% versus 72.2%; P = 0.03). AC was observed in most of the patients who died (13 of 14; P = 0.06). These findings were not seen in patients with IEM.

Conclusion

Among patients with SSc, AC is associated with a significantly more severe clinical phenotype. IEM may associate with a milder phenotype. Further studies are needed to evaluate AC, IEM, and their clinical impact relative to the timing of other end‐organ complications in SSc.
A Breathable, Passive‐Cooling, Non‐Inflammatory, and Biodegradable Aerogel Electronic Skin for Wearable Physical‐Electrophysiological‐Chemical Analysis
Authors: Zhu Yangzhi , Haghniaz Reihaneh , Hartel Martin C. , Guan Shenghan , Bahari Jamal , Li Zijie , Baidya Avijit , Cao Ke , Gao Xiaoxiang , Li Jinghang , Wu Zhuohong , Cheng Xuanbing , Li Bingbing , Emaminejad Sam , Weiss Paul S. , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: December 2022

Real‐time monitoring of human health can be significantly improved by designing novel electronic skin (E‐skin) platforms that mimic the characteristics and sensitivity of human skin. A high‐quality E‐skin platform that can simultaneously monitor multiple physiological and metabolic biomarkers without introducing skin discomfort or irritation is an unmet medical need. Conventional E‐skins are either monofunctional or made from elastomeric films that do not include key synergistic features of natural skin, such as multi‐sensing, breathability, and thermal management capabilities in a single patch. Herein, a biocompatible and biodegradable E‐skin patch based on flexible gelatin methacryloyl aerogel (FGA) for non‐invasive and continuous monitoring of multiple biomarkers of interest is engineered and demonstrated. Taking advantage of cryogenic temperature treatment and slow polymerization, FGA is fabricated with a highly interconnected porous structure that displays good flexibility, passive‐cooling capabilities, and ultra‐lightweight properties that make it comfortable to wear for long periods of time. It also provides numerous permeable capillary channels for thermal‐moisture transfer, ensuring its excellent breathability. Therefore, the engineered FGA‐based E‐skin can simultaneously monitor body temperature, hydration, and biopotentials via electrophysiological sensors and detect glucose, lactate, and alcohol levels via electrochemical sensors. This work offers a previously unexplored materials strategy for next‐generation E‐skin platforms with superior practicality.
Acid‐Ionizable Iron Nanoadjuvant Augments STING Activation for Personalized Vaccination Immunotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Chen Fangmin , Li Tianliang , Zhang Huijuan , Saeed Madiha , Liu Xiaoying , Huang Lujia , Wang Xiyuan , Gao Jing , Hou Bo , Lai Yi , Ding Chunyong , Xu Zhiai , Xie Zuoquan , Luo Min , Yu Haijun
Published: December 2022

The critical challenge for cancer vaccine‐induced T‐cell immunity is the sustained activation of antigen cross‐presentation in antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) with innate immune stimulation. In this study, it is first discovered that the clinically used magnetic contrast agents, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), markedly augment the type‐I interferon (IFN‐I) production profile of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist MSA‐2 and achieve a 16‐fold dosage‐sparing effect in the human STING haplotype. Acid‐ionizable copolymers are coassembled with IONPs and MSA‐2 into iron nanoadjuvants to concentrate STING activation in the draining lymph nodes. The top candidate iron nanoadjuvant (PEIM) efficiently delivers the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) to CD169+ APCs and facilitates antigen cross‐presentation to elicit a 55‐fold greater frequency of antigen‐specific CD8+ cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte response than soluble antigen. PEIM@OVA nanovaccine immunization induces potent and durable antitumor immunity to prevent tumor lung metastasis and eliminate established tumors. Moreover, PEIM nanoadjuvant is applicable to deliver autologous tumor antigen and synergizes with immune checkpoint blockade therapy for prevention of postoperative tumor recurrence and distant metastasis in B16‐OVA melanoma and MC38 colorectal tumor models. The acid‐ionizable iron nanoadjuvant offers a generalizable and readily translatable strategy to augment STING cascade activation and antigen cross‐presentation for personalized cancer vaccination immunotherapy.
Polymer Electrolyte/Sulfur Double‐Shelled Anisotropic Reduced Graphene Oxide Lamellar Scaffold Enables Stable and High‐Loading Cathode for Quasi‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Shin Hyun Jung , Park Sung‐Woo , Park Sangbaek , Kim Dong‐Wan
Published: December 2022

Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) can replace lithium‐ion batteries by delivering a higher specific capacity. However, the areal capacity of current LSBs is low because the intrinsic limitations of sulfur make achieving a high sulfur loading difficult. Herein, the authors report vertically aligned reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with sulfur and poly(ethylene oxide)‐based polymer electrolyte double‐shell layers (VRG@S@PPE) as a high‐loading sulfur cathode. The addition of vapor‐grown carbon fiber (VGCF) into rGO is the key to success, as it allows for gas evacuation from internal nano/micropores without structural collapse, enabling perfect double‐shell layer contact. Owing to the anisotropic rGO lamellar structure that enables straightforward ion/electron transport and provides numerous active sites, sulfur‐infiltrated rGO reinforced via VGCF (VRG@S) exhibits a high capacity of 998 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 C under high sulfur loading (6 mg cm−2). Interestingly, an additional polymer electrolyte layer further increases the cycle retention (1005 and 718 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 and 1 C, respectively), because intimate contact between the solid polymer electrolyte and sulfur could suppress the loss of sulfur due to lithium polysulfide (LPS) shuttling or volume change during lithiation/delithiation. Therefore, it is possible to realize safe and stable quasi‐solid‐state LSBs with high sulfur loading.
Methotrexate for recurrent chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: A randomized, controlled, phase 2 clinical trial
Authors: Cakir Cetin Asli , Tuncok Yesim , Keskinoglu Pembe , Arici Mualla Aylin , Onen Fatos , Ecevit Mustafa Cenk
Published: December 2022

Objective

This randomized, controlled, open‐label, phase 2 clinical trial aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of low‐dose methotrexate as maintenance therapy for recurrent postoperative chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNPs).

Methods

Forty‐one patients with CRSwNPs who experienced postoperative polyp recurrence(s) were randomly divided into three groups to receive one of the following treatments for 8 weeks: daily intranasal mometasone furoate monohydrate 200 mcg (control [intranasal corticosteroids (INCS)] arm, n = 13]); daily per oral methylprednisolone 8 mg (oral corticosteroids [OCS] arm, n = 14); and once weekly per oral 10 mg methotrexate (MTX arm, n = 14). All patients were assessed at three clinical visits according to the Lund‐Kennedy endoscopic grading system (LKES), visual analog scale (VAS), Turkish version of the Sinonasal Outcome Test‐22 (SNOT‐22), peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF), butanol olfactory threshold test (BuOT), serum total IgE level, presence of peripheral eosinophilia, serum biochemical assays, and adverse events.

Results

All efficacy outcome measures significantly improved in all three groups, except for the nonrecovery of peripheral eosinophilia in the INCS group. There was no significant difference among the groups in terms of LKES scores. Scores for the Turkish version of the SNOT‐22, PNIF, BuOT, and serum IgE levels were also similar among the groups. However, total VAS scores recovered significantly better in the INCS group than in the MTX group. Serum biochemical assays remained normal in all groups. Adverse events were minor and observed only in the OCS group.

Conclusion

Low‐dose MTX was a safe and effective maintenance therapy for patients with recurrent postoperative CRSwNPs.
Covalent Organic Frameworks Containing Dual O2 Reduction Centers for Overall Photosynthetic Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Authors: Chen Dan , Chen Weiben , Wu Yuting , Wang Lei , Wu Xiaojun , Xu Hangxun , Chen Long
Published: December 2022

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are highly desirable for achieving high‐efficiency overall photosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via molecular design. However, precise construction of COFs toward overall photosynthetic H2O2 remains a great challenge. Herein, we report the crystalline s‐heptazine‐based COFs (HEP‐TAPT‐COF and HEP‐TAPB‐COF) with separated redox centers for efficient H2O2 production from O2 and pure water. The spatially and orderly separated active sites in HEP‐COFs can efficiently promote charge separation and enhance photocatalytic H2O2 production. Compared with HEP‐TAPB‐COF, HEP‐TAPT‐COF exhibits higher H2O2 production efficiency for integrating dual O2 reduction active centers of s‐heptazine and triazine moieties. Accordingly, HEP‐TAPT‐COF bearing dual O2 reduction centers exhibits a remarkable solar‐to‐chemical energy efficiency of 0.65 % with a high apparent quantum efficiency of 15.35 % at 420 nm, surpassing previously reported COF‐based photocatalysts.
Dinitrogen reduction using ruthenium coordinated by nitrogen‐doped graphene and cobalt complex coordinated by anionic PNP pincer ligand as catalysts and Frustrated Lewis Pair as a co‐catalyst: Density Functional Theory studies
Authors: Sivan Akhil K. , Thomas Jisha Mary , Sivasankar Chinnappan
Published: December 2022

Ammonia is an indispensable component for the development of human society due to its widespread applications and because it is an excellent source of energy. Chemists are looking for a viable catalyst for the activation of N2 molecule to subsequently synthesize ammonia. In this theoretical work, we have used [Co(N2)(RPNP)] (R = tBu, tBuPNP = 2,5‐bis(di‐tert‐butylphosphinomethyl)pyrrolide) complex and ruthenium coordinated by nitrogen‐doped graphene (NDG) as catalysts. To limit the competitive binding of N2 and H2 to the metal centre, we have utilized the concept of Frustrated Lewis Pair [AH]+[BH]− (FLP‐H2), which can act as a co‐catalyst. It can be utilized to functionalize the coordinated N2 into NH3 and hydrazine. According to the calculated thermodynamic and kinetic barriers, we have observed that the [Co(N2)(RPNP)] and ruthenium coordinated by NDG can be used as catalysts to activate N2. The alternative addition of H+ and H− to metal coordinated N2 molecule using the FLP‐H2 source is proposed in the catalytic cycle to generate NH3 and NH2NH2. The current investigation also reveals some thermodynamically feasible hexa‐ and penta‐coordinated metal‐hydride bond formation.
GC/MS and LC/MS Phytochemical Analysis of Vigna unguiculata L. Walp Pod
Authors: Mahavirsing Dinore Jaysing , Shivaji Patil Harshal , Farooqui Samreen , Pradhan Vidya , Farooqui Mazahar
Published: December 2022

Vigna unguiculata (L. Walp) or Cowpea pod methanolic extracts phytochemical analysis, total phenolic content (TPC), and secondary metabolite profiling were determined using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC/MS) analysis. GC/MS analysis revealed twenty compounds in the extract, while LC/MS analysis identified twenty‐four compounds. GC/MS chromatogram analysis suggested the presence of opioid α‐N‐Normethadol a major constituent found in methanolic extract and fatty acid esters carotenoid is found second major constituent. LC/MS chromatogram and the mass spectral analysis demonstrated the presence of flavonoids, carotenoids, and alkaloids as major phytochemicals. We investigated the antibacterial, anti‐fungal, and anti‐oxidant activity of pod methanolic extract. The extract was found equally effective against E. coli, S. pyogenes, and P. aeruginosa with MIC 100 μg/mL similar to the standard Ampicillin (MIC 100 μg/mL). C. albicans were found to be most susceptible to Vign unguiculata pods methanolic extract with a MIC of 250 μg/mL. The pod extract showed significant DPPH scavenging activity (IC50=78.38±0.15) which suggests its antioxidant potential.
PGAM4 silencing inhibited glycolysis and chemoresistance to temozolomide in glioma cells
Authors: Lu Bin , Nie Xiao‐Hu , Yin Rui , Ding Peng , Su Zhong‐Zhou , Qiu Sheng , Qian Ya‐Fang
Published: December 2022

Gliomas account for about 80% of malignant brain tumors. The incidence of a new brain tumor is 6.4 per 100,000 persons per year with an overall 5‐year survival rate of 33.4%. Regardless of the great advances that have been made in recent years, the causes and pathogenesis of glioma remain unclear. Here we study how phosphoglycerate mutase 4 (PGAM4) contributes to glioma. Using a variety of methods to examine glioma cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, glycolysis, as well as ChIP coanalysis with modified histone H3, we showed that PGAM4 was significantly upregulated in patients with glioma and associated with poor survival. Silencing PGAM4 attenuated cell viability, proliferation, and glycolysis in T98G cells and suppressed tumor growth in vivo, while overexpressing PGAM4 promoted cell viability, proliferation, and glycolysis in U251 cells via regulating glycolysis pathway. Study also revealed that PGAM4 was regulated by EP300‐mediated modifications of H3K27ac. PGAM4 silencing inhibited cell viability and proliferation, suppressed tumor growth, and decreased chemoresistance to temozolomide in glioma cells through suppressing glycolysis.
Novel case of laparoscopically resected gastric adenocarcinoma concurrent with lanthanum deposition
Authors: Hirose Kosuke , Saito Shunichi , Oshiro Yumi , Minami Kazuhito , Ikegami Koji , Kurahara Koichi , Honbo Takuya , Sadanaga Noriaki , Matsuura Hiroshi
Published: December 2022

A 73‐year‐old man taking lanthanum carbonate for hemodialysis showed progressing gastric mucosal changes with lanthanum deposition. Regular examination revealed concurrent gastric carcinoma. The extent and depth of its invasion were ambiguous because of the surrounding lanthanum deposition. Furthermore, there could be other potent carcinomas, and curative laparoscopic gastrectomy was performed.
Phrenic nerve schwannoma presenting as an asymptomatic neck mass
Authors: Chan Kimberly , Keane Allison , Aynardi Jason , Choi Karen Y.
Published: December 2022

Phrenic nerve schwannomas of the head and neck are exceedingly rare pathologies that can present as an asymptomatic neck mass. Surgery is the definitive treatment, and a conservative surgical approach is preferred if a benign pathology is suspected.
Multiple tracheobronchial diverticula in a post‐TB patient: A case report
Authors: Timilsina Bibek , Pangeni Raju Prasad , Khadka Sulochana , Regmi Pradeep Raj , Dhakal Binaya
Published: December 2022

The presence of multiple tracheal and bronchial diverticula is a rare condition. We present a case of a 22‐years old non‐smoker male with a history of pulmonary tuberculosis, having multiple tracheal and bronchial diverticula along with other common sequelae such as stenosed and collapsed upper lobe bronchi.
Long‐term survival of a patient with lung cancer treated with pembrolizumab after recurrent cardiac tamponade
Authors: Uchida Tsuyoshi , Matsubara Hirochika , Muto Mamoru , Sasanuma Harunobu , Sugimura Saya , Onuki Yuichiro , Nakajima Hiroyuki
Published: December 2022

A 69‐year‐old man with non‐small cell lung cancer presenting with pericardial effusion and rapid progression of dyspnea achieved long‐term disease stabilization after radiation therapy and immunotherapy. This case shows that pembrolizumab may improve prognosis in advanced lung cancer, even when complicated by cardiac tamponade.
Cardiac arrest during a diving session: A case report and differential diagnosis
Authors: Ippolito Mariachiara , Tubiolo Martina , Falletta Angelo , Federico Antonino , Simone Barbara , Ingoglia Giulia , Gregoretti Cesare , Raineri Santi Maurizio , Cortegiani Andrea , Giarratano Antonino
Published: December 2022

We report a case of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest occurred in a 61‐year‐old recreational female diver. After resuscitation, the patient was referred to the hospital. With data provided by witnesses and appropriate medical investigations, drowning related to a failed rebreather system was the most plausible explanation. Patient outcome was favorable.
Single Amino Acid Residues Control Potential‐Dependent Inactivation of an Inner Membrane bc‐Cytochrome**
Authors: Joshi Komal , Chan Chi H. , Levar Caleb E. , Bond Daniel R.
Published: December 2022

During extracellular electron transfer, Geobacter sulfurreducens constitutively expresses the bc‐cytochrome CbcL, yet cells containing only this menaquinone oxidase fail to respire above −0.1 V vs. SHE. By identifying mutations within cbcL that permit growth at higher potentials, we provide evidence that this cytochrome is regulated by redox potential. Strains expressing only CbcLV205A, CbcLV205G, and CbcLF525Y were capable of growth with high potential electron acceptors including Fe(III) citrate, Mn(IV) oxides, and electrodes poised at +0.1 V vs. SHE. Electrochemical characterization of wild type CbcL revealed oxidative inactivation of electron transfer above −0.1 V, while CbcLV205A, CbcLV205G, and CbcLF525Y remained active. Growth yields of CbcLV205A, CbcLV205G, and CbcLF525Y were only 50 % of WT, consistent with CbcL‐dependent electron transfer conserving less energy. These data support the hypothesis that CbcL has evolved to rapidly shut off in response to redox potential, in order to divert electrons to higher yield oxidases that coexist in the Geobacter membrane.
Solvothermal Polymerization and Electrochemical Behavior of Conjugated Polyimide with High Electronic Conductivity and Low Solubility
Authors: Xue Zhihuan , Zhan Yu , Wang Shengping , Yu Jingxian
Published: December 2022

The polymerization of small molecules as electrode materials in lithium‐ion batteries not only reduces the solubility but also improves the surface structure and electrical conductivity. The law governing the correlations between the solvothermal temperature of polyimide (PQI) and its surface morphology and structure and electrochemical properties is investigated. The 1st and 200th discharge capacity densities for PQI‐180 with fine electrochemical performance at 100 mA g−1 are 246.6 and 178.5 mAh g−1, respectively. The rich pore structure of PQI‐180 is conducive to accelerating ion migration and reducing diffusion impedance. In addition, PQI‐180 with a uniform three‐dimensional mesh structure makes sufficient contact with the conductive agent, reducing the electron contact resistance. Unlike previously reported 3‐ or 4‐electron reactions, PQI used as an electrode material shows a 5‐electron reaction and a theoretical capacity of 319 mAh g−1 at voltages ranging from 1.5–3.0 V, and theoretical calculations and experiments explain that this result is due to a new electrochemical reaction mechanism.
Zebrafish model of RERE syndrome recapitulates key ophthalmic defects that are rescued by small molecule inhibitor of shh signaling
Authors: George Aman , Lee Jerry , Liu James , Kim Suzie , Brooks Brian P.
Published: December 2022

Background

RERE is a highly conserved transcriptional co‐regulator that is associated with a human neurodevelopmental disorder with or without anomalies of the brain, eye, or heart (NEDBEH, OMIM: 616975).

Results

We show that the zebrafish rerea mutant (babyface) robustly recapitulates optic fissure closure defects resulting from loss of RERE function, as observed in humans. These defects result from expansion of proximal retinal optic stalk (OS) and reduced expression of some of the ventral retinal fate genes due to deregulated protein signaling. Using zebrafish and cell‐based assays, we determined that NEDBEH‐associated human RERE variants function as hypomorphs in their ability to repress shh signaling and some exhibit abnormal nuclear localization. Inhibiting shh signaling by the protein inhibitor HPI‐1 rescues coloboma, confirming our observation that coloboma in rerea mutants is indeed due to deregulation of shh signaling.

Conclusions

Zebrafish rerea mutants exhibit OS and optic fissure closure defects. The optic fissure closure defect was rescued by an shh signaling inhibitor, suggesting that this defect could arise due to deregulated shh signaling.
Transmission network tariff volatility assessment under UPFC‐integrated system and N‐1 contingency condition
Authors: Khan Baseem , Mahela Om Prakash , Hussien Mohamed G.
Published: December 2022

In the restructured electricity markets, transmission usage, usage costs, and loss allocation are critical issues for recovering network embedded and maintenance costs from network users. However, because of the integration of the flexible alternating current transmission system (FACTS) and the occurrence of power system contingencies, this allocation is more complex and critical from the utility's perspective, as it may cause volatility in transmission network costs. In this work, the unified power flow controller (UPFC) is utilized to show the effect of its integration on the system cost and cost allocation. Further, contingency conditions are common in power systems. Therefore, for determining usage, usage cost, and loss allocation volatility under UPFC‐integrated system and N‐1 contingency conditions, this work utilized a power flow tracing‐based transmission usage allocation technique. Reliability factors are used to determine transmission line flows in the event of a failure. Furthermore, contingency line flows are employed to assess transmission tariff volatility in terms of risk premiums. The cost of transmission utilization is recovered using a modified MW‐mile technique. The devised approach was put to the test on a 6‐bus system and an IEEE 14‐bus system.
Storing the future of energy: Navigating energy storage policy to promote clean energy generation
Authors: Donnelly Kevin B.
Published: December 2022

The United States has experienced heightened interest in clean energy sources, with many states implementing renewable technologies for energy generation. These efforts are critical for moving states and the nation toward decarbonization and decreased emissions within the transportation and power industries. A challenge with renewable sources (particularly solar and wind) is the inherent variability of energy generation due to climate and geographic influences. Consequently, there is increased interest in addressing energy storage technologies to better capitalize on excess power from high‐production periods for use in times of low generation. Energy storage comes in many different forms with varying duration. Several forms of energy storage are explored in this report to demonstrate the variety of technology options. Following research of the current state of energy storage policy, this work proposes three areas of potential policy improvements for industry: (1) implementation of a policy framework for states to produce ambitious energy storage procurement metrics; (2) amending of the federal investment tax credit for energy storage technologies to be duration‐based; and (3) incentivization of sustainable battery practices. It is imperative for state legislatures to create informed energy storage goals alongside current renewable energy metrics. Amending the modern federal investment tax credit system to include duration‐based incentivization will encourage the deployment of long‐duration technologies to combat variation in electricity generation over the course of seasons. Finally, for the continued deployment of batteries, sustainable practices must be implemented to mitigate material and environmental challenges posed by them, including recycling practices and alternative chemistry utilization.
In‐Plane damage of partition walls with various boundaries during earthquakes
Authors: Huang Jiantao , Kurata Masahiro , Kawamata Yohsuke , Kanao Iori , Qi Liangjie , Takaoka Masashi
Published: December 2022

Cold‐formed steel‐framed gypsum partition walls (hereinafter referred to as partition walls) sustain the seismic damage induced by small story drifts. The impacts on the functional deterioration and monetary loss of buildings are enhanced in earthquake events where structural damages are limited. Although the boundaries of partition walls vary by location in a building structure, the existing studies assume a typical partition wall surrounded by a frame consisting of columns and girders. In particular, the vertical boundary members vary from a column, stud column, and wall panel. Our present work investigates the influence of the boundaries on seismic damage and fragility assessment of partition walls using an experimental dataset of cold‐formed steel‐framed gypsum partition walls with various boundaries obtained at an E‐Defense shake table on a four‐story steel frame. A damage mechanism model considering the deformation and rigid body motion of the partition walls and boundaries suitably explains the observed damage variations and underlying mechanisms. This study also presents the non‐negligible impact of boundaries on the fragility and expected repair time and cost model of the partition walls. The presented results are critical in providing references for the layout of partition walls, damage predictions, construction improvements, and repair strategy.
Metal‐free spent disposable papercup‐derived porous carbon as air‐breathing electrode for rechargeable lithium‐air battery
Authors: Sankar Devi Vaithiyanathan , Elumalai Perumal
Published: December 2022

Mesoporous activated carbon was generated from the spent disposable papercups and explored as an air‐breathing electrode for rechargeable Li‐air battery. The carbon was synthesized through chemical activation using KOH at different temperatures 400°C, 600°C, and 800°C. The crystal structure and mesoporous nature of the activated carbon were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques, and the elemental composition was analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The activated carbon obtained at 800°C had the surface area of 752 m2 g−1. The oxygen reduction reaction/oxygen evolution reaction (ORR/OER) kinetics conducted in rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) under Ar and O2 atmosphere with 0.1 M KOH confirmed that the carbon electrode obtained at 800°C achieved inherent catalyst activity. The high surface area, effective O2 adsorption and the more active sites provided on the surface of the C800 electrode lead to high ORR and OER catalytic activity. A CR‐2032 coin cell was fabricated to demonstrate Li‐air battery using the C800 electrocatalyst as an air‐breathing electrode that showed stable OCV and the high discharge capacity of 1035 mAh g−1 at a current density of 50 Ag−1. The fabricated cell was applied for practical implementation by glowing 2.8 V commercial LED bulb for about 18 hours continuously.
Systematic evaluation of head motion on resting‐state functional connectivity MRI in the neonate
Authors: Kim Jung‐Hoon , De Asis‐Cruz Josepheen , Kapse Kushal , Limperopoulos Catherine
Published: December 2022

Reliability and robustness of resting state functional connectivity MRI (rs‐fcMRI) relies, in part, on minimizing the influence of head motion on measured brain signals. The confounding effects of head motion on functional connectivity have been extensively studied in adults, but its impact on newborn brain connectivity remains unexplored. Here, using a large newborn data set consisting of 159 rs‐fcMRI scans acquired in the Developing Brain Institute at Children's National Hospital and 416 scans from The Developing Human Connectome Project (dHCP), we systematically investigated associations between head motion and rs‐fcMRI. Head motion during the scan significantly affected connectivity at sensory‐related networks and default mode networks, and at the whole brain scale; the direction of motion effects varied across the whole brain. Comparing high‐ versus low‐head motion groups suggested that head motion can impact connectivity estimates across the whole brain. Censoring of high‐motion volumes using frame‐wise displacement significantly reduced the confounding effects of head motion on neonatal rs‐fcMRI. Lastly, in the dHCP data set, we demonstrated similar persistent associations between head motion and network connectivity despite implementing a standard denoising strategy. Collectively, our results highlight the importance of using rigorous head motion correction in preprocessing neonatal rs‐fcMRI to yield reliable estimates of brain activity.
Application of machine learning methods in predicting schizophrenia and bipolar disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Montazeri Mahdieh , Montazeri Mitra , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz , Montazeri Mohadeseh , Afraz Ali
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim

Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (BD) are critical and high‐risk inherited mental disorders with debilitating symptoms. Worldwide, 3% of the population suffers from these disorders. The mortality rate of these patients is higher compared to other people. Current procedures cannot effectively diagnose these disorders because it takes an average of 10 years from the onset of the first symptoms to the definitive diagnosis of the disease. Machine learning (ML) techniques are used to meet this need. This study aimed to summarize information on the use of ML techniques for predicting schizophrenia and BD to help early and timely diagnosis of the disease.

Methods

A systematic literature search included articles published until January 19, 2020 in 3 databases. Two reviewers independently assessed original papers to determine eligibility for inclusion in this review. PRISMA guidelines were followed to conduct the study, and the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) to assess included papers.

Results

In this review, 1243 papers were retrieved through database searches, of which 15 papers were included based on full‐text assessment. ML techniques were used to predict schizophrenia and BDs. The main algorithms applied were support vector machine (SVM) (10 studies), random forests (RF) (5 studies), and gradient boosting (GB) (3 studies). Input and output characteristics were very diverse and have been kept to enable future research. RFs algorithms demonstrated significantly higher accuracy and sensitivity than SVM and GB. GB demonstrated significantly higher specificity than SVM and RF. We found no significant difference between RF and SVM in terms of specificity.

Conclusion

ML can precisely predict results and assist in making clinical decisions‐concerning schizophrenia and BD. RF often performed better than other algorithms in supervised learning tasks. This study identified gaps in the literature and opportunities for future psychological ML research.
Corporate social responsibility disclosure on Twitter: Signalling or greenwashing? Evidence from the UK
Authors: Amin Marian H. , Ali Heba , Mohamed Ehab K. A.
Published: December 2022

This study aims at exploring and investigating whether disclosure of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on Twitter signals true CSR performance or merely is a greenwashing tool to conceal and compensate for inferior CSR performance. Based on a sample of 167,908 tweets posted by the constituents of the FTSE 350 Index, topic modelling—a natural language processing technique based on unsupervised learning—is utilized to identify CSR disclosure on social media. Our empirical evidence based on several regression models shows association between firms' CSR performance and disclosure, which supports the signalling story, and hence, casts doubt on the greenwashing behaviour among UK firms on social media. Our findings suggest several implications for researchers, shareholders, and practitioners as the relation between CSR disclosure on influential, widely reached platforms such as social media and CSR performance carries important indications about the credibility of the content of such disclosure, the extent to which it reflects actual CSR performance, and hence its usefulness for all stakeholders interested in CSR. The true motive behind CSR disclosures can greatly influence how stakeholders perceive such information and the extent to which they can rely on it for decision making purposes.
Molecular adsorption on coinage metal subnanoclusters: ADFT+D3investigation
Authors: Felix João P. C. S. , Batista Krys E. A. , Morais Wesley O. , Nagurniak Glaucio R. , Orenha Renato P. , Rêgo Celso R. C. , Guedes‐Sobrinho Diego , Parreira Renato L. T. , Ferrer Mateus M. , Piotrowski Maurício J.
Published: December 2022

Gold and silver subnanoclusters with few atoms are prominent candidates for catalysis‐related applications, primarily because of the large fraction of lower‐coordinated atoms exposed and ready to interact with external chemical species. However, an in‐depth energetic analysis is necessary to characterize the relevant terms within the molecular adsorption process that can frame the interactions within the Sabatier principle. Herein, we investigate the interaction between Agnand Aunsubnanoclusters (clu,n = 2–7) and N2, NO, CO, and O2molecules, using scalar‐relativistic density functional theory calculations within van der Waals D3 corrections. The onefold top site is preferred for all chemisorption cases, with a predominance of linear (≈180°) and bent (≈120°) molecular geometries. A larger magnitude of adsorption energy is correlated with smaller distances between molecules and clusters and with the weakening of the adsorbates bond strength represented by the increase of the equilibrium distances and decrease of molecular stretching frequencies. From the energetic decomposition, the interaction energy term was established as an excellent descriptor to classify subnanoclusters in the adsorption/desorption process concomitant with the Sabatier principle. The limiting cases: (i) weak molecular adsorption on the subnanoclusters, which may compromise the reaction activation, where an interaction energy magnitude close to 0 eV is observed (e.g., physisorption in N2/Ag6); and (ii) strong molecular interactions with the subnanoclusters, given the interaction energy magnitude is larger than at least one of the individual fragment binding energies (e.g., strong chemisorption in CO/Au4and NO/Au4), conferring a decrease in the desorption rate and an increase in the possible poisoning rate. However, the intermediate cases are promising by involving interaction energy magnitudes between zero and fragment binding energies. Following the molecular closed‐shell (open‐shell) electronic configuration, we find a predominant electrostatic (covalent) nature of the physical interactions for N2⋯clu and CO ⋯clu (O2⋯clu and NO⋯clu), except in the physisorption case (N2/Ag6) where dispersive interaction is dominant. Our results clarify questions about the molecular adsorption on subnanoclusters as a relevant mechanistic step present in nanocatalytic reactions.
Polarized Raman spectroscopy reveals unaligned orientation in pearls
Authors: Gao Jing , Zhang Jinli , Wu Wanghua , Yen Chien‐Kuo , Su Wen
Published: December 2022

Polarized Raman spectroscopy is a useful technique in studying orientation of molecular vibrations of crystals, which, however, has been applied insufficiently in crystallography, mineralogy, or geology. This present study is devoted to measure the transversal orientation of high‐quality cultivated pearls using polarized Raman spectroscopy. The pearls were cultivated by Pinctada fucata in Japan, consisting of aragonite dominantly. On the pearl surface, the aragonite micro‐crystals show irregularly hexagonal and pentagonal shapes, orienting their c axes towards the pearl surface. A number of aragonite micro‐crystals makes up a lamina with a noncircular contour, and a batch of laminae stacks up with a decreasing area from bottom to top to form a target pattern. So there is an abundant of target patterns spreading over the pearl surface. Using a marker on the pearl surface as a reference, angular variation of aragonite is quantifiable by measuring mode intensities of aragonite and depolarization ratio. Polarized Raman images are collected on the pearl surface, which show spatial differences in orientation of aragonite micro‐crystals on the mesoscopic scale. This transversal heterogeneity exists not only between different laminae but also between aragonite micro‐crystals on the same lamina. We suggest that the development of the stress around the aragonite micro‐grains lead to the angular variations of aragonite. The orientation of biominerals has been studied using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and electron back‐scattered diffraction (EBSD). The present study indicates another sensitive technique of polarized Raman spectroscopy to evaluate molecular orientation in biominerals.
Assessment of antimicrobial activity of melittin encapsulated in bicontinuous microemulsions prepared using renewable oils
Authors: Oehler Madison A. , Hayes Douglas G. , D'Souza Doris H. , Senanayake Manjula , Gurumoorthy Viswanathan , Pingali Sai Venkatesh , O'Neill Hugh M. , Bras Wim , Urban Volker S.
Published: December 2022

The objective of this study is to demonstrate that melittin, a well‐studied antimicrobial peptide (AMP), can be solubilized in an active form in bicontinuous microemulsions (BMEs) that employ biocompatible oils. The systems investigated consisted of Winsor‐III and ‐IV BME phases composed of Water/Aerosol‐OT (AOT)/Polysorbate 85/isopropyl myristate and a Winsor‐IV BME employing Polysorbate 80 and limonene. We found that melittin resided in an α‐helix‐rich configuration and was in an apolar environment for the AOT/Polysorbate 85 Winsor‐III system, suggesting that melittin interacted with the surfactant monolayer and was in an active conformation. An apolar environment was also detected for melittin in the two Winsor‐IV systems, but to a lesser extent than the Winsor‐III system. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis indicated that melittin at a concentration of 1.0 g/Laq in the aqueous subphase of the Winsor‐IV systems led to the greatest impact on the BME structure (e.g., decrease of quasi‐periodic repeat distance and correlation length and induction of interfacial fluidity). The antimicrobial activity of the Polysorbate 80 Winsor‐IV system was evaluated against several bacteria prominent in chronic wounds and surgical site infections (SSIs). Melittin‐free BMEs inhibited the growth of all tested bacteria due to its oil, limonene, while the inclusion of 1.0 g/Laq of melittin in the BMEs enhanced the activity against several bacteria. A further increase of melittin concentration in the BMEs had no further enhancement. These results demonstrate the potential utility of BMEs as a delivery platform for AMPs and other hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs to inhibit antibiotic‐resistant microorganisms in chronic wounds and SSIs.