bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Record‐Efficiency Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Multifunctional Organic Ions Interface Passivation
Authors: Yang Lu , Feng Jiangshan , Liu Zhike , Duan Yuwei , Zhan Sheng , Yang Shaomin , He Kun , Li Yong , Zhou Yawei , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: April 2022

Flexible perovskite solar cells (f‐PSCs) have attracted great attention because of their unique advantages in lightweight and portable electronics applications. However, their efficiencies are far inferior to those of their rigid counterparts. Herein, a novel histamine diiodate (HADI) is designed based on theoretical study to modify the SnO2/perovskite interface. Systematic experimental results reveal that the HADI serves effectively as a multifunctional agent mainly in three aspects: 1) surface modification to realign the SnO2 conduction band upward to improve interfacial charge extraction; 2) passivating the buried perovskite surface, and 3) bridging between the SnO2 and perovskite layers for effective charge transfer. Consequently, the rigid MA‐free PSCs based on the HADI‐SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL) display not only a high champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.79% and open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.20 V but also outstanding stability as demonstrated by the PSCs preserving 91% of their initial efficiencies after being exposed to ambient atmosphere for 1200 h without any encapsulation. Furthermore, the solution‐processed HADI‐SnO2 ETL formed at low temperature (100 °C) is utilized in f‐PSCs that achieve a PCE as high as 22.44%, the highest reported PCE for f‐PSCs to date.
Rational Design of Better Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting: A Review
Authors: Liu Fan , Shi Chengxiang , Guo Xiaolei , He Zexing , Pan Lun , Huang Zhen‐Feng , Zhang Xiangwen , Zou Ji‐Jun
Published: April 2022

The excessive dependence on fossil fuels contributes to the majority of CO2 emissions, influencing on the climate change. One promising alternative to fossil fuels is green hydrogen, which can be produced through water electrolysis from renewable electricity. However, the variety and complexity of hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts currently studied increases the difficulty in the integration of catalytic theory, catalyst design and preparation, and characterization methods. Herein, this review first highlights design principles for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts, presenting the thermodynamics, kinetics, and related electronic and structural descriptors for HER. Second, the reasonable design, preparation, mechanistic understanding, and performance enhancement of electrocatalysts are deeply discussed based on intrinsic and extrinsic effects. Third, recent advancements in the electrocatalytic water splitting technology are further discussed briefly. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of the development of highly efficient hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts for water splitting are proposed.
Thermodynamically Driven Synthetic Optimization for Cation‐Disordered Rock Salt Cathodes
Authors: Cai Zijian , Zhang Ya‐Qian , Lun Zhengyan , Ouyang Bin , Gallington Leighanne C. , Sun Yingzhi , Hau Han‐Ming , Chen Yu , Scott Mary C. , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: April 2022

Relating the synthesis conditions of materials to their functional performance has long been an experience‐based trial‐and‐error process. However, this methodology is not always efficient in identifying an appropriate protocol and can lead to overlooked opportunities for the performance optimization of materials through simple modifications of the synthesis process. In this work, the authors systematically track the structural evolution in the synthesis of a representative disordered rock salt (a promising next‐generation Li‐ion cathode material) at the scale of both the long‐range crystal structure and the short‐range atomic structure using various in situ and ex situ techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and pair distribution function analysis. An optimization strategy is proposed for the synthesis protocol, leading to a remarkably enhanced capacity (specific energy) of 313 mAh g−1 (987 Wh kg−1) at a low rate (20 mA g−1), with a capacity of more than 140 mAh g−1 retained even at a very high cycling rate of 2000 mA g−1. This strategy is further rationalized using ab initio calculations, and important opportunities for synthetic optimization demonstrated in this study are highlighted.
Population dynamics of mud crab, Scylla olivacea (Herbst, 1796) from the Sundarbans of Bangladesh
Authors: Sakib Md. Hashmi , Ahmmed Shawon , Washim Mizanur Rahman , Islam Md. Latiful , Chowdhury Parvez
Published: April 2022

The Sundarbans mangrove regions are the home of the mud crab (Scylla olivacea) business, as forest areas are potential places for random crab harvesting, trading, and exporting overseas seafood markets. Since the mud crab was being captured on a large‐scale in the wild for various purposes, estimation of population parameters were immediately done in terms of body weight and length‐frequency data collected from different locations in the forest of southwestern Bangladesh to understand the status of the stock. Recruitment pattern, growth parameters, mortality rates, and exploitation levels (E) were estimated to understand the population dynamics of S. olivacea. Asymptotic carapace widths (CW∝) were 14.70 and 14.18 cm, and growth co‐efficients (K) were 0.47 and 0.50 year–1 for male and female S. olivacea, respectively. The fishing mortalities were 2.32 and 1.13 year–1 and natural mortalities were 1.39 and 1.46 year–1 for males and females, respectively. Year‐round recruitment of this species takes place in the wild with a peak between June and November. The E for S. olivacea was found to be 0.63 for the male and 0.44 for the female. In summery, the stock of S. olivacea is found to be overexploited in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh. Therefore, mud crab resources should be taken into consideration under suitable fisheries management policies to conserve this national treasure in this delta. It is supposed that the findings will draw the attention of the scientists in the fields of aquatic biology, ecology, and management of the Sundarbans in restoring the mud crab population.
Population‐specific responses of floral volatiles to abiotic factors in changing environments
Authors: Keefover‐Ring Ken , Hetherington Matthew C. , Brunet Johanne
Published: April 2022

Premise

Shifts in abiotic factors can affect many plant traits, including floral volatiles. This study examined the response of floral volatiles to water availability and whether phenotypic plasticity to water availability differs among populations. It also investigated genetic differentiation in floral volatiles, determined the effect of temperature on phenotypic plasticity to water availability, and assessed temporal variation in floral scent emission between day and evening, since pollinator visitation differs at those times.

Methods

Rocky Mountain columbine plants (Aquilegia coerulea), started from seeds collected in three wild populations in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, were grown under two water treatments in a greenhouse in Madison, Wisconsin, United States. One population was also grown under the two water treatments, at two temperatures. Air samples were collected from enclosed flowers using dynamic headspace methods and floral volatiles were identified and quantified by gas chromatography (GC) with mass spectrometry (MS).

Results

Emission of three floral volatiles increased in the wetter environment, indicating phenotypic plasticity. The response of six floral volatiles to water availability differed among populations, suggesting genetic differentiation in phenotypic plasticity. Five floral volatiles varied among populations, and emission of most floral volatiles was greater during the day.

Conclusions

Phenotypic plasticity to water availability permits a quick response of floral volatiles in changing environments. The genetic differentiation in phenotypic plasticity suggests that phenotypic plasticity can evolve but complicates predictions of the effects of environmental changes on a plant and its pollinators.
Genotypic confirmation of a biased phenotypic sex ratio in a dryland moss using restriction fragment length polymorphisms
Authors: Ekwealor Jenna T. B. , Benjamin Simone D. , Jomsky Jordan Z. , Bowker Matthew A. , Stark Lloyd R. , McLetchie D. Nicholas , Mishler Brent D. , Fisher Kirsten M.
Published: April 2022

Premise

In dioicous mosses, sex is determined by a single U (female, ♀) or V (male, ♂) chromosome. Although a 1 : 1 sex ratio is expected following meiosis, phenotypic sex ratios based on the production of gametangia are often female‐biased. The dryland moss Syntrichia caninervis (Pottiaceae) is notable for its low frequency of sex expression and strong phenotypic female bias. Here we present a technique to determine genotypic sex in a single shoot of S. caninervis, and report results of a case study examining genotypic and phenotypic sex ratios.

Methods

We reanalyzed 271 non‐expressing gametophyte shoots from a previous study on S. caninervis sex expression across microhabitats using a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method.

Results

We recovered a genotypic sex ratio in non‐expressing shoots of 18.4♀ : 1♂, which exceeds the female bias of the phenotypic ratio (5.3♀ : 1♂; P = 0.013). We also found that the distribution of male and female genotypes across microsites with different levels of sun exposure was not predicted by patterns of sex expression in these microsites.

Discussion

These findings contribute to our understanding of how the environment may modulate sex ratios in S. caninervis, either through its direct influence on sex expression or through selection on genotypes with particular sex expression phenotypes.
Application of gap time analysis with flexible hazards to pulmonary exacerbations in the EPIC observational study
Authors: Rice John D. , Johnson Rachel L. , Juarez‐Colunga Elizabeth , Zemanick Edith T. , Rosenfeld Margaret , Wagner Brandie D.
Published: April 2022

Cystic fibrosis and other chronic lung disease clinical trials often use time to first pulmonary exacerbation (PEx) or total PEx count as endpoints. The use of these outcomes may fail to capture patterns or timing of multiple exacerbations and how covariates influence the risk of future exacerbations. Analysis of gap times between PEx provides a useful framework to understand risks of subsequent events, particularly to assess if there is a temporary increase in a hazard of a subsequent PEx following the occurrence of a PEx. This may be useful for estimating the amount of time needed to follow patients after a PEx and predicting which patients are more likely to have multiple PEx. We propose a smoothed hazard for gap times to account for elevated hazards after exacerbations. A simulation study was conducted to explore model performance and was able to appropriately estimate parameters in all situations with an underlying change point with independent or correlated recurrent events. Models with different change‐point structures and trends are compared using Early Pseudomonas Infection Control (EPIC) observational study data, using a quasi‐likelihood modification of the Akaike information criterion; a model with a change‐point provided a better fit than a model without one. The analysis suggests that the change point may be 1.8 years (SE 0.09) after the end of a PEx. Models including covariates in the hazard function revealed that having one or two copies of the F508 mutation, female sex, and higher numbers of previous PEx were significantly associated with increased risk of another PEx.
Tumor regression grade combined with lymph node status in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Yun Jae Kwang , Kim Youngwoong , Lee Geun Dong , Choi Sehoon , Kim Yong‐Hee , Kim Dong Kwan , Park Seung‐Il , Kim Hyeong Ryul
Published: April 2022

Introduction

We aimed to elucidate the prognostic value of tumor regression grade (TRG) combined with lymph node status compared with the 8th edition of the ypTNM staging system in patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT).

Methods

We enrolled 325 patients with ESCC who underwent nCRT followed by complete resection. We adopted the modified Schneider TRG system, with high (ypT0N0), mid (ypT0N+ or ypT + N0), and low (ypT + N+). After developing a multivariable Cox model, the discrimination ability of the ypStage and TRG systems was evaluated using the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and R2 measure.

Results

The mean duration of follow‐up was 56.7 ± 43.3 months. The survival curves between the adjacent groups of TRG were significantly different for both overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS). However, there were no significant differences between ypStages II and III for OS (p = 0.683) or RFS (p = 0.760). The TRG system also had a discrimination ability in patients with ypStage I (p < 0.001 for both OS and RFS) and ypStage III (p = 0.045 for OS and 0.042 for RFS). Compared with the ypTNM staging system, the modified TRG had a lower AIC value (1835.99 vs. 1852.02) and a higher R2 (0.256 vs. 0.177), indicating better discrimination ability and prediction accuracy.

Conclusions

For patients with ESCC who underwent esophagectomy following nCRT, the modified Schneider TRG system may complement the ypStage and help clinicians select the most appropriate postoperative treatment and surveillance.
Impact of pre‐existing interstitial lung abnormal shadow on lung injury development and severity in patients of non‐small cell lung cancer treated with osimertinib
Authors: Shibaki Ryota , Ozawa Yuichi , Noguchi Susumu , Murakami Yusuke , Takase Eri , Azuma Yuichiro , Maebeya Masaru , Sugimoto Takeya , Hayata Atsushi , Hayakawa Takahiro , Tamaki Shinya , Nakanishi Masanori , Teraoka Shunsuke , Akamatsu Hiroaki
Published: April 2022

Background

First‐generation epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI) sometimes causes lung injury, thereby affecting survival. Although pre‐existing interstitial lung abnormal shadow (pre‐ILS) increases the risk of lung injury by EGFR‐TKIs, its impact on osimertinib, a third‐generation EGFR‐TKI, remains unknown.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective cohort study consecutively enrolled patients of EGFR‐mutated non‐small cell lung cancer treated with osimertinib. Computed tomography images were obtained and evaluated independently by three pulmonologists in a blinded manner. Factors associated with lung injury were assessed using a logistic regression model. Survival curves were calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using a log‐rank test.

Results

Of the 195 patients, 40 had pre‐ILS, and 21 (8 with and 13 without pre‐ILS) developed lung injury during the observation period. Multivariate analysis revealed that pre‐ILS was independently associated with lung injury (odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–8.2; p = 0.025). Severe (≥Grade 3) lung injury was observed in eight (4.1%) patients, of whom, two (5%) and six (3.9%) had and did not have pre‐ILS (p = 0.67), respectively. Grade 5 lung injury was not observed, and survival curves were similar between the patients who developed lung injury and those who did not (median 11 vs. 12 months; hazard ratio, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.56–2.7; p = 0.60).

Conclusions

Pre‐ILS increased the risk of lung injury in patients of non‐small cell lung cancer treated with osimertinib, while the severity of lung injury was not clearly affected by the presence of pre‐ILS.
Better or worse? The prognostic role of the mesenchymal subtype in patients with high‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Juan , Shi Xiaoyan , Xiao Lan , Li Zelian , Li Zhimin , Sun Lei
Published: April 2022

Background

Tumor characteristics can be prognostically relevant in patients with high‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC). This study aimed to determine whether different subtypes of HGSOC, especially the mesenchymal subtype, are associated with overall survival (OS) or progression‐free survival (PFS) in patients with HGSOC.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies published up to September 2020. The eligibility criteria were (1) population: patients with HGSOG with molecular subtyping of their tumor, (2) exposure: mesenchymal subtype, (3) non‐exposure: differentiated, immunoreactive, proliferative, and other non‐mesenchymal subtypes, (4) outcome: survival, with hazard ratios (HRs), and (5) English language.

Results

The mesenchymal subtype showed no statistically significant difference in OS compared with the immunoreactive subtype (HR = 1.47, 95% CI: 0.78–2.78, p = 0.238; I2 = 81.2%, pheterogeneity = 0.005) or all non‐mesenchymal subtypes (HR = 1.65, 95% CI: 0.97–2.80, p = 0.063; I2 = 79.4%, pheterogeneity = 0.008). The mesenchymal subtype showed no statistically significant difference in PFS compared with the immunoreactive subtype (HR = 1.19, 95% CI: 0.71–2.00, p = 0.514; I2 = 71.6%, pheterogeneity = 0.030) but a significant differences was observed when using all non‐mesenchymal subtypes as reference (HR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.00–2.28, p = 0.049). The results were robust according to the sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

There are no statistically significant differences in OS between the mesenchymal subtype of HGSOC and other subtypes of HGSOC. Because of statistical power, this meta‐analysis cannot conclude about non‐inferiority, and the relationship between the molecular subtypes and HGSOC prognosis remains controversial. Based on one study, the mesenchymal subtype could have a poorer PFS than the non‐mesenchymal subtypes of HGSOC, but this conclusion requires further evidence.
Design, Synthesis and in Vitro Antifungal Mechanism of Novel Phenylalanine Derivatives
Authors: Niu Xue , Zhang Hong , Zhang Chengzhi , Dou Li , Wu Zhibing
Published: April 2022

To explore novel molecules with unique mechanisms against plant pathogenic fungi, a series of phenylalanine derivatives containing a 1,3,4‐oxadiazothioether moiety were designed and synthesized. Bioassays revealed that some target compounds at 100 μg/mL exhibited excellent antifungal activities against Thanatephorus cucumeris, such as G6 (92.1 %), G10 (94.3 %), G18 (99.1 %), and G19 (98.7 %), better than that of the commercial fungicide azoxystrobin (90.6 %), and the EC50 value of G10 against T. cucumeris was 31.9 μg/mL. Further mechanism studies of T. cucumeris treated with G10 demonstrated that this compound can affect the growth of mycelia by disrupting the integrity of the membrane, and the higher the concentration of the compound is, the greater the degree of membrane integrity damage, similar to the commercial fungicide azoxystrobin. These conclusions provide important information for further mechanism studies of this series of phenylalanine derivatives.
Medial thigh fasciocutaneous flaps for reconstruction of the scrotum following Fournier gangrene: A case report
Authors: Mwenibamba Rodrigue Mupenda , Nteranya Daniel Safari , Mukakala Augustin Kibonge , Wabene Christian Bisimwa , Rugendabanga Angelique Mufariji , Kibukila Fabrice , Mitima Nathan Bisimwa , Niyondiko Jean Claude
Published: April 2022

Fournier's gangrene, a rapidly progressive necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum and external genitalia that leads to extensive soft tissue necrosis, remains a medical‐surgical emergency. The authors present a case of coverage of a scrotal loss of substance with testicular exposure by a medial fasciocutaneous flap of the unilateral thigh after debridement and initial medical treatment of Fournier's gangrene in a 50‐year‐old quadriplegic patient. The clinical examination at 8 months showed an aesthetic and functional result. The trophic‐cutaneous thigh flap that the authors propose for frail, elderly, and neurological subjects with low functional requirements allows coverage of the scrotal region with relatively thick skin, color, and texture close to those of the scrotum. It also offers technical simplicity, moderate scarring, and functional remnants at the price of less morbidity.
Can SARS‐CoV‐2 infection trigger rheumatoid arthritis? A case report
Authors: Bouzid Sirine , Ben Abdelghani Kawther , Miledi Saoussen , Fazaa Alia , Laatar Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Inflammatory arthritis has been reported after SARS‐COV‐2 infection. We present a case of a 38‐year‐old female patient who developed polyarthralgia 1 month after SARS‐COV‐2 infection. Musculoskeletal examination was significant for synovitis of hands and wrists. Antinuclear antibody (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), and anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies were positive. Magnetic resonance imaging of the hands showed synovitis of the metacarpophalangeal joints and proximal interphalangeal joints of the hands, wrist joints, and tendinitis with tenosynovitis. The patient was diagnosed with seropositive nonerosive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and initiated on therapy using nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agents and disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drug methotrexate leading to an improvement in symptoms.
Influence of modern aluminium alloys on the reaction behavior of refractory linings
Authors: Reichert Wanja , Kenn Dorothea , Sannikow Vadim , Tonnesen Thorsten , Telle Rainer
Published: April 2022

For modern aluminum alloy production, constituents of silicon, zinc, and magnesium contribute mainly to the degradation of refractory furnace linings. The alloy constituents increasingly penetrate the material via the vapor phase. This study intends to enhance understanding, describe and characterize the interactions between refractories used in holding and melting furnaces of the aluminum industry. The damage mechanisms occurring due to corrosion are verified and determined by applying various test methods and atmospheres.

The present study focuses on the impact of zinc (Zn) and magnesium (Mg) as a gaseous component on refractory linings. The examined materials of this study are bauxite‐based bricks with phosphate bonding and bricks with either CA6 or sol‐gel bonding, both based on high alumina.

The experimental setup of the corrosion tube furnace consists of a crucible filled with solid metal and two identical bars of the refractory sample. Metallic zinc, magnesium, and the Al alloy EN‐AW7075 are within this study's scope. Further conditions are a testing temperature of 1050°C and increasing test duration of 2, 8, 24, and 36 h. The experiments have shown that zinc and magnesium both have an extreme influence, especially on the microstructure, which is accompanied by both positive and negative property changes. These are dependent on both the bonding type and the ambient atmosphere.
Parcellation in the dorsal column nuclei of Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) and rock hyraxes (Procavia capensis) indicates the presence of body barrelettes
Authors: Sarko Diana K. , Reep Roger L.
Published: April 2022

Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) and rock hyraxes (Procavia capensis) exhibit expanded tactile arrays of vibrissae that are distributed not only on the face but also on the entire postfacial body. In contrast, the vibrissae of most mammals are principally restricted to the face. These facial vibrissae may be associated with central nervous system representations known as barrels in the cerebral cortex, barreloids in the thalamus, and barrelettes in the trigeminal nuclei of the brainstem. To date, vibrissae representations found within the brainstem have been principally limited to facial vibrissae representations in the trigeminal nuclei. We hypothesized that the tactile specializations of the manatee and rock hyrax would produce a unique modification of typical mammalian central nervous system organization, with postfacial vibrissae representations appearing in the cuneate and gracile nuclei as “body barrelettes.” Using histological and histochemical methods, including cresyl violet, myelin, and cytochrome oxidase processing, we first delineated the rostral, middle, and caudal zones of the cuneate and gracile nuclei. Within the middle zone, divisions were present, including extensive parcellation in the cluster region, particularly in manatees. These clusters were particularly densely distributed and distinguishable in the presumptive postfacial body representations in the cuneate and gracile nuclei but otherwise shared many attributes with the barrelettes found in the trigeminal nuclei of other species. This study represents the first characterization of postfacial body vibrissae representations, or “body barrelettes,” in the brainstem of any species. Previous studies have predominantly focused on facial vibrissae representations, which have served for decades as a model for sensory organization and plasticity. Our results extend what is known about vibrissae representations in the central nervous system to include expansions related to peripheral specializations of the postfacial body. Unusual somatosensory adaptations in the manatee and rock hyrax are highly informative regarding how mammalian brain organization responds to evolutionary pressures on sensory systems.
Tribophosphorescence from a Simple Boronic Ester
Authors: Prasad Nandi Rajendra , Ghosh Subhajit , Venkatasubbaiah Krishnan , Kumbhar Dipak , Thilagar Pakkirisamy
Published: April 2022

We demonstrate the room temperature tribophosphorescence from a simple anthracene boronic ester, 9‐(pinacolboryl)anthracene (1). Both 1 and 9,10‐bis(pinacolboryl)anthracene (2) show fluorescence and delayed emission at room temperature in the solid‐state. Under mechanical stress, 1 displays tribophosphorescence. In contrast, 2 shows mechanofluorochromism under similar conditions. Detailed optical, computational, and crystal structural studies are carried out to rationalize the tribophosphorescence characteristics of 1.
Methods to Detect Small Molecule Inhibition of RING E3 Ligase Activity
Authors: Rothenaigner Ina , Brenke Jara Kerstin , Schorpp Kenji , Hadian Kamyar
Published: April 2022

Protein ubiquitination is an essential post‐translational modification that regulates a large number of cellular processes. This reaction is facilitated by the consecutive action of three central enzymes, i.e., E1 activating enzyme, E2 conjugating enzyme, and the E3 ligase. More than 600 E3 enzymes guarantee the specificity and selectivity of these reactions and thus represent an exciting, while highly underrepresented, class of drug targets. Specific methods can be employed to monitor their activity and thus query compound libraries for inhibitory small molecules. Here, we describe two protocols—one high‐throughput and one low‐throughput method—to detect E3 ligase activity and test small molecule modulation. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: AlphaScreen assay to measure TRAF6‐Ubc13 interaction

Basic Protocol 2: Gel‐based in vitro ubiquitination assay (K63‐linked chains)
Zebrafish Patient‐Derived Avatars from Digestive Cancers for Anti‐cancer Therapy Screening
Authors: Costa Bruna , Estrada Marta F. , Barroso Mariana Tavares , Fior Rita
Published: April 2022

Patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs), also called “avatars,” are generated by the implantation of human primary tumor cells or tissues into a host animal. Given the complexity and unique characteristics of each tumor, PDXs are models of choice in cancer research and precision medicine. In this context, the zebrafish PDX model (zPDX or zAvatar) has been recognized as a promising in vivo model to directly challenge patient cells with anti‐cancer therapies in a personalized manner. The assay relies on the injection of tumor cells from patients into zebrafish embryos to then test and identify the best available drug combination for a particular patient. Compared to mouse PDXs, zAvatar assays take less time and do not require in vitro or in vivo cell expansion. The present article describes how to generate zAvatars from resected digestive cancer from surgeries and how to then use them for anti‐cancer therapy screening. We describe the steps for tumor sample collection and cryopreservation, sample preparation and fluorescent labeling for microinjection into zebrafish embryos, drug administration, and analysis of tumor behavior by single‐cell confocal imaging. We provide detailed protocols and helpful tips for performing this assay, and we address the technical challenges associated with the workflow. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Patient tumor sample collection and cryopreservation

Basic Protocol 2: Generation of zAvatars and anti‐cancer treatment

Basic Protocol 3: Whole‐mount immunofluorescence

Basic Protocol 4: Confocal imaging and analysis
Long short‐term memory‐based power‐aware algorithm for prompt heterogenous activity
Authors: Ayeesha Nasreen M , Ravindran Selvi
Published: April 2022

Human–computer interaction plays a vital role in wireless body area networks, internet of things, and big data. Wearables are low‐power devices with minimal battery capacity. In general, wearables suffer from energy losses due to changes in the user's body posture, diffraction, reflection, and shadowing of the human body. As a result, many control packets are needed to ensure proper communication in wireless body area network. Hence, this research proposes a long short‐term memory‐based power‐aware (LSTM‐PA) algorithm to ensure burst data transmission during prompt heterogeneous activities in the presence and absence of inter‐WBAN interference. The proposed algorithm predicts the best quality time (BQT) for data transmission by activity classification and robust R2 similarity (RRS) metric. The minimum transmission power is estimated by the critical point classification technique. The activity classification accuracy is 92% in the LSTM‐PA algorithm. The energy consumption in the node is reduced by up to 46.34% compared to benchmark algorithms.
Atomic Dispersion of Rh on Interconnected Mo2C Nanosheet Network Intimately Embedded in 3D NixMoOy Nanorod Arrays for pH‐Universal Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Doan Thi Luu Luyen , Nguyen Dinh Chuong , Bacirhonde Patrick M. , Yasin Ahmed S. , Rezk Abdelrahman I. , Dzade Nelson Y. , Kim Cheol Sang , Park Chan Hee
Published: April 2022

Herein, a simple synthetic approach is employed for the atomic dispersion of Rh atoms (Rh SAs) over the surface of interconnected Mo2C nanosheets intimately embedded in a three‐dimensional NixMoOy nanorod arrays (NixMoOy NRs) framework; we found that the introduction of both isolated Rh SAs and NixMoOy NRs adjusts the electrocatalytic function of the host Mo2C toward the direction of being an advanced and highly stable electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution at pH‐universal conditions. As a result, the proposed catalyst outperforms most recently reported transition metal‐based catalysts, and its performance even rivals that of commercial Pt/C, as demonstrated by its ultralow overpotentials of 31.7, 109.7, and 95.4 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, along with its small Tafel slopes of 42.4, 51.2, and 46.8 mV dec−1 in acidic, neutral, and alkaline conditions, respectively. In addition, the catalyst shows remarkable long‐term stability over all pH values with good maintenance of its catalytic activity and structural characteristics after continuous operation.
Recent developments on seismic safety evaluation of concrete dams
Authors: Zhang Chuhan
Published: April 2022

The Tsinghua Group of Earthquake Resistance on Dams has conducted seismic analysis and safety evaluation of concrete dams since the early 1980s. This paper reviews the recent developments achieved by the group, including source–media–structure simulation, dynamic experimental tests and mesoscale numerical simulation of concrete, and seismic response analysis and risk evaluation. In the end, the development trends of seismic safety evaluation are summarized, and the earthquake disaster chain of cascade dams is introduced.
Diastereoselective Functionalization of Chiral N‐Acyl‐1,3‐oxazolidines and Their Applications in the Synthesis of Bioactive Molecules
Authors: Morales‐Monarca Gerardo H. , Gnecco Dino , Terán Joel L.
Published: April 2022

1,3‐Oxazolidines, derived from widely available enantiomerically pure 1,2‐aminoalcohols, are versatile chiral auxiliaries for several key transformations, often serving as a platform for inquiries into new and complex reactivity. This Review focuses on the chemistry of N‐acyl‐1,3‐oxazolidines in which the stereoselective transformation is carried out on the N‐acyl attached side chain of the molecule, covering reports from late 1980s to 2020 across several fields of asymmetric synthesis of bioactive molecules, and in particular of natural products.
Do we need a new definition of enrollment management? Part 1
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: April 2022

“Get your facts first, and then you can distort as much as you please.”

—Mark Twain
Better use of data combined with a personalized approach leads to enrollment success
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2022

When Gareth Fowles, Ed.D., arrived at Lynn University from South Africa as an undergraduate on a soccer scholarship, he didn't expect his career to unfold on the campus — or in higher education. But after earning an M.B.A at the institution, his first position was as Director of Alumni Affairs. After earning his doctorate in higher education and policy, he served as Special Assistant to the President at Lynn and moved into his current role as Vice President for Enrollment Management in 2010.
Discussion on “A combined estimate of global temperature”
Authors: Thorne Peter W.
Published: April 2022

While the real‐world has warmed in one unique way, the available data, which is spatio‐temporally incomplete and contains biases of unknown nature and timing, means this quantity can only ever be estimated. Craigmile and Guttorp (2022) propose an approach that optimally combines the range of existing products to gain a refined estimate. Implicit in this or, indeed, any similar approach, are assumptions about the available estimates representing both an unbiased and representative draw from the population of potential plausible estimates that could have been created. There are well‐founded reasons to doubt that this is the case. An alternative approach, used in the IPCC report, is to employ much simpler approaches which, in particular, hedge against underestimation of the true uncertainty in the evolution of global surface temperatures, and thus serve to future‐proof current estimates against subsequent dataset innovations arising from future improvements in our understanding.
Estimation of the methanol loss in the gas hydrate prevention unit using the artificial neural networks: Investigating the effect of training algorithm on the model accuracy
Authors: Xu Haitao , Wu Xiangwei , Khandakar Amith
Published: April 2022

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) can understand the behavior of a given system from the historical measurements of its associated variables. Adjusting the weight and bias of the ANN model using an optimization algorithm is known as the training process. The ANN reliability is directly related to the success of the training process. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of optimization algorithms on the prediction accuracy of the multilayer perceptron neural networks (MLPNNs). The complex gas hydrate prevention unit is simulated using the MLPNN model trained by 20 different optimization algorithms. This study investigates the gradient‐based, evolutionary, and Bayesian‐based optimization algorithms. Combining statistical and ranking analyses confirms that the Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) is the most efficient optimization technique for training the MLPNN model. This training algorithm adjusts the weight and bis parameters of the MLPNN so that the highest accurate predictions have been achieved. On the other hand, the trained MLPNN by imperialist competitive algorithm shows the lowest accuracy for the considered task. The trained MLPNN by the LM algorithm predicts 239 laboratory‐measured data sets about the methanol (MeOH) loss with the absolute average relative deviation of 6.4% and regression coefficient of 0.9643. Coupling the developed MLPNN and differential evolution optimization algorithm shows that temperature = 263 K and pressure = 6.92 MPa are the optimum condition for minimizing the MeOH loss in the gas hydrate prevention unit. Economic analysis confirms that the annual cost of methanol loss for the daily processing of 100 × 106 m3 of gas is ~17 million US dollars.
Higher incidence of high‐severity fire in and near industrially managed forests
Authors: Levine Jacob I , Collins Brandon M , Steel Zachary L , de Valpine Perry , Stephens Scott L
Published: April 2022

The increasing prevalence of high‐severity wildfire in forests in the US state of California is connected to past forest management, but uncertainty remains regarding the differential effects of land ownership on these trends. To determine whether differing forest management regimes, inferred from land ownership, influence high‐severity fire incidence, we assembled and analyzed a large dataset of 154 wildfires that burned a combined area of more than 971,000 ha in California. We found that where fires occurred, the odds of high‐severity fire on “private industrial” lands were 1.8 times greater than on “public” lands and 1.9 times greater than on “other” lands (that is, remaining lands classified as neither private industrial nor public). Moreover, high‐severity fire incidence was greater in areas adjacent to private industrial land, indicating this trend extends across ownership boundaries. Overall, these results indicate that prevailing forest management practices on private industrial timberland may increase high‐severity fire occurrence, underscoring the need for cross‐boundary cooperation to protect ecological and social systems.
The physics informed neural networks for the unsteady Stokes problems
Authors: Yue Jing , Li Jian
Published: April 2022

In this article, we develop the physics informed neural networks (PINNs) coupled with small sample learning for solving the transient Stokes equations. Specifically, the governing equations are encoded into the networks to construct the loss function, which involves the residual of differential equations, the initial/boundary conditions, and the residual of a handful of observations. The approximate solution was obtained by optimizing the loss function. Few sample data can rectify the network effectively and improve predictive accuracy. Moreover, the method can simultaneously solve each variable of the equations separately in a parallel framework. The information of the numerical data is compiled into the networks to enhance efficiency and accuracy in practice. Therefore, this method is a meshfree and fusion method that combined data‐driven with model‐driven. Inspired by the Galerkin method, the paper proves the convergence of the loss function and the capability of neural networks. Furthermore, numerical experiments are performed and discussed to demonstrate the performance of the method.
Analyses on the pigment composition of different seed coat colors in adzuki bean
Authors: Zhao Pu , Chu Liwei , Wang Kaili , Zhao Bo , Li Yisong , Yang Kai , Wan Ping
Published: April 2022

Seed coat color is an important quality and domestication trait. The adzuki bean has more than a dozen seed coat colors closely associated with the anthocyanin and flavonoid metabolism pathways. In this study, we explored the pigment composition of 10 different seed coat color adzuki beans including red, black mottle on red, black mottle on gray, golden, green, black, ivory, brown, and light brown. The results showed that anthocyanins are the main pigment in adzuki bean seed coat. There were no carotenoid or pelargonidin derivatives in the seed coats of any accessions. Different colors of adzuki bean seed coat have different pigment compositions and the combination of procyanidins and anthocyanins affected seed coat color. The ivory seed coat had an extremely low proanthocyanidin and anthocyanin content. Only the green adzuki bean seed coats contained chlorophyll. Our results explain the pigment composition of the different seed coat colors and the combination of proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins affected seed coat color in adzuki bean. These results can provide a theoretical basis for the study of adzuki bean coloring mechanism.
Distinct neural signatures of schizotypy and psychopathy during visual word‐nonword recognition
Authors: Vanova Martina , Aldridge‐Waddon Luke , Norbury Ray , Jennings Ben , Puzzo Ignazio , Kumari Veena
Published: April 2022

Previous behavioural data indicate lower word‐nonword recognition accuracy in association with a high level of positive schizotypy, psychopathy, or motor impulsivity traits, each with some unique contribution, in the general population. This study aimed to examine the neural underpinnings of these associations using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in a volunteer sample. Twenty‐two healthy English‐speaking adults completed self‐report measures of schizotypy (Oxford‐Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences [O‐LIFE]), psychopathy (Triarchic Psychopathy Measure [TriPM]), and impulsivity (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale [BIS‐11]) and underwent whole‐brain fMRI while performing a lexical decision task (LDT) featuring high and low‐frequency words, real nonwords, and pseudohomophones. Higher positive schizotypy (Unusual Experiences) was associated with lower cerebellum activity during identification of low‐frequency words (over real nonwords). Higher Boldness (fearless dominance) and Meanness (callous aggression) facets of psychopathy were associated with lower striatal and posterior cingulate activity when identifying nonwords over words. Higher Motor Impulsivity was associated with lower activity in the fusiform (bilaterally), inferior frontal (right‐sided), and temporal gyri (bilaterally) across all stimuli‐types over resting baseline. Positive schizotypy, psychopathy, and impulsivity traits influence word‐nonword recognition through distinct neurocognitive mechanisms. Positive schizotypy and psychopathy appear to influence LDT performance through brain areas that play only a supportive (cerebellum) or indirect role in reading‐related skills. The negative association between Motor Impulsivity and activations typically found for phonological processing and automatic word identification indicates a reduced bilateral integration of the meaning and sound of mental word representations, and inability to select the appropriate outputs, in impulsive individuals.
Alcohol use disorder in community management of chronic liver diseases
Authors: Leggio Lorenzo , Mellinger Jessica L.
Published: April 2022

Rising rates of alcohol use disorder (AUD) combined with increases in alcohol‐related liver disease (ALD) and other liver disease have resulted in the need to develop alcohol management strategies at all levels of patient care. For those with pre‐existing liver disease, whether ALD or others, attention to alcohol use treatment and abstinence becomes critical to avoiding worsening liver‐related consequences. Modalities to help patients reduce or stop alcohol include screening/brief intervention/referral to treatment, various therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy and 12‐step facilitation, and alcohol relapse prevention medications. Harm reduction approaches versus total abstinence may be considered, but for those with existing ALD, particularly advanced ALD (cirrhosis or acute alcoholic hepatitis), total abstinence from alcohol is the recommendation, given clear data that ongoing alcohol use worsens mortality and liver‐related morbidity. For certain populations, alcohol cessation is even more critically important. For those with hepatitis C or NAFLD, alcohol use accelerates negative liver‐related outcomes. In women, alcohol use accelerates liver damage and results in worsened liver‐related mortality. Efforts to integrate AUD and liver disease care are urgently needed and can occur at several levels, with establishment of multidisciplinary ALD clinics for fully integrated co‐management as an important goal.
Effect of high‐flow nasal oxygen on postoperative oxygenation in obese patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rosén Jacob , Frykholm Peter , Fors Diddi
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim

Postoperative hypoxemia is common after general anesthesia in obese patients. We investigated if early application of high‐flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) improved postoperative oxygenation in obese patients compared with standard oxygen therapy following general anesthesia for laparoscopic bariatric surgery.

Methods

This was an open labeled randomized controlled trial conducted at a university hospital in Sweden between October 23, 2018 and February 11, 2020. The study was performed as a substudy within a previously published trial. After ethics committee approval and written informed consent, 40 obese patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 35 kg m−2) scheduled for laparoscopic bariatric surgery were randomized to receive oxygen using a standard low‐flow nasal cannula (NC group) or HFNO at 40 L min−1 (HF group) immediately upon arrival to the post‐anesthesia care unit. Flow rate (NC group) or FiO2 (HF group) was titrated to reach an initial SpO2 of 95%–98% after which settings were left unchanged. The primary outcome was PaO2 at 60 min following postoperative baseline values. Secondary outcomes included PaCO2, SpO2, hemodynamic variables, and patient self‐assessed discomfort.

Results

Thirty‐four patients were available for analysis. PaO2 was similar between groups at postoperative baseline. After 60 min, PaO2 had increased to 12.6 ± 2.8 kPa in the NC group (n = 15) and 14.0 ± 2.7 kPa in the HF group (n = 19); (mean difference 1.4 kPa, 95% confidence interval −0.6 to 3.3; p = 0.16). There were no differences in PaCO2, hemodynamic variables, or self‐assessed discomfort between groups after 60 min.

Conclusion

In obese patients, HFNO did not improve postoperative short‐term oxygenation compared with standard low‐flow oxygen following general anesthesia for laparoscopic bariatric surgery.
Numerical simulation of the effect of electrode insertion depth on melting process of self‐supporting lining electric furnace
Authors: Wang Zhanhui , Su Fuyong , Kang Zhen , Zhu Haojun
Published: April 2022

This research is on the melting process of slag in non‐inner lining furnaces. In this electric furnace, slag is solidified into the lining of the inner wall during the melting process by means of water cooling of the outer wall. It is a self‐supporting lining electric furnace. In this study, the slag melting process was simulated using ANSYS software, and the electromagnetic field, temperature field, and furnace lining thickness of the self‐supporting lining were analyzed at different electrode insertion depths. The results show that the self‐supporting lining can be formed under the three insertion depth of the electrodes, and the thickness of the lining increases with the insertion depth of the electrode.