bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Biocatalytic Defunctionalization of Raw Materials
Authors: Wohlgemuth Roland
Published: April 2022

Biobased raw materials, such as carbohydrates, amino acids, nucleotides, or lipids contain valuable functional groups with oxygen and nitrogen atoms. An abundance of many functional groups of the same type, such as primary or secondary hydroxy groups in carbohydrates, however, limits the synthetic usefulness if similar reactivities cannot be differentiated. Therefore, selective defunctionalization of highly functionalized biobased starting materials to differentially functionalized compounds can provide a sustainable access to chiral synthons, even in case of products with fewer functional groups. Selective defunctionalization reactions, without affecting other functional groups of the same type, are of fundamental interest for biocatalytic reactions. Controlled biocatalytic defunctionalizations of biobased raw materials are attractive for obtaining valuable platform chemicals and building blocks. The biocatalytic removal of functional groups, an important feature of natural metabolic pathways, can also be utilized in a systemic strategy for sustainable metabolite synthesis.
Fire, grazers, and browsers interact with grass competition to determine tree establishment in an African savanna
Authors: Donaldson Jason E. , Holdo Ricardo , Sarakikya Jeremia , Anderson T. Michael
Published: April 2022

In savanna ecosystems, fire and herbivory alter the competitive relationship between trees and grasses. Mechanistically, grazing herbivores favor trees by removing grass, which reduces tree–grass competition and limits fire. Conversely, browsing herbivores consume trees and limit their recovery from fire. Herbivore feeding decisions are in turn shaped by risk–resource trade‐offs that potentially determine the spatial patterns of herbivory. Identifying the dominant mechanistic pathways by which fire and herbivores control tree cover remains challenging, but is essential for understanding savanna dynamics. We used an experiment in the Serengeti ecosystem and a simple simulation driven by experimental results to address two main aims: (1) determine the importance of direct and indirect effects of grass, fire, and herbivory on seedling establishment and (2) establish whether predators determine the spatial pattern of successful seedling establishment via effects on mesoherbivore distribution. We transplanted tree seedlings into plots with a factorial combination of grass and herbivores (present/absent) across a lion‐kill‐risk gradient in the Serengeti, burning half of the plots near the end of the experiment. Ungrazed grass limited tree seedling survival directly via competition, indirectly via fire, and by slowing seedling growth, which drove higher seedling mortality during fires. These effects restricted seedling establishment to below 18% and, in conjunction with browsing, resulted in seedling establishment dropping below 5%. In the absence of browsing and fire, grazing drove a 7.5‐fold increase in seedling establishment. Lion predation risk had no observable impact on herbivore effects on seedling establishment. The severe negative effects of grass on seedling mortality suggests that regional patterns of tree cover and fire may overestimate the role of fire in limiting tree cover, with regular fires representing a proxy for the competitive effects of grass.
The Low Temperature Synthesis of Very Small and Non‐Crystalline Iron‐Based Nanoparticles: Application in Alkene Hydrosilylation
Authors: Galeandro‐Diamant Thomas , Dardun Vincent , Tahar Sougrati Moulay , Stievano Lorenzo , Lomachenko Kirill A. , Veyre Laurent , Meille Valérie , Thieuleux Chloé
Published: April 2022

This work describes the synthesis of very small non‐crystalline and non‐metallic iron‐based nanoparticles in solution from easily accessible commercial products in mild conditions. These colloidal suspensions were further used to generate well‐defined solids containing metallic iron or iron oxide NPs. While classical magnetic and crystalline Fe nanoparticles are inactive in alkene hydrosilylation, such original NPs were active in 1‐octene hydrosilylation with 1,1,1,2,3,3,3‐heptamethyltrisiloxane (MD'M) showing that the non‐crystallinity and the organometallic character of the starting Fe NPs are an asset to generate a specific catalytic activity.
A New Alcohol‐Soluble Polymer PFN‐ID as Cathode Interlayer to Optimize Performance of Conventional Polymer Solar Cells by Increasing Electron Mobility
Authors: Yang Chunyan , Zhang Chunlin , Chen Can , Ren Yi , Shen Haojiang , Tong Junfeng , Du Sanshan , Xia Yangjun , Li Jianfeng
Published: April 2022

A new alcohol‐soluble polymer PFN‐ID is successfully synthesized by combining N,N‐di(2‐ethylhexyl)‐6,6′‐dibromoisoindigo and an amino‐containing fluorene subunits, and applied to polymer solar cells (PSCs) with PTB7‐Th:PC71BM as an active layer. The n‐type backbone of the PFN‐ID improves electron transfer performance and thus optimizes device performance. The PSCs with PFN‐ID as cathode interfacial layers (CILs) have significantly improved compared to the device without the interface layer, especially the optimum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PSCs reaches up to 9.24%, which is 1.62 times higher than that of devices without CILs. The I–V curves show that the introduction of the n‐type backbone leads to a significant increase in the conductivity of PFN‐ID compared to PFN. The UV photoelectron spectroscopy and Mott–Schottky curves further confirm that PFN‐ID can decrease the work function of Al electrode, and increase its built‐in potential, giving higher open‐circuit voltage. The resulting conventional PSCs using PFN‐ID as cathode interlayer achieve high photovoltaic performance, and the research results can provide a new strategy for the advancement of PSCs.
The way of Qu‐making significantly affected the volatile flavor compounds in Huangjiu (Chinese rice wine) during different brewing stages
Authors: Peng Qi , Zheng Huajun , Meng Kai , Zhu Yimeng , Zhu Wenxia , Zhu Hongyi , Shen Chi , Fu Jianwei , Elsheery Nabil l. , Xie Guangfa , Han Jiongping , Wu Peng , Fan Yuyan , Girma DulaBealu , Sun Jianqiu , Hu Baowei
Published: April 2022

The volatile flavor compounds of Huangjiu (Chinese rice wine) brewed from different raw materials were obviously different, but there were few studies on the volatile flavor compounds of Huangjiu brewed from different wheat Qu at different brewing stages. In this paper, headspace–solid phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, combined with principal component analysis and sensory evaluation, was used to determine the volatile flavor compounds in Huangjiu brewed from wheat Qu made by hand and wheat Qu made by mechanical. The results showed that there were significant differences in the contents and types of volatile flavor substances in Huangjiu brewed from different wheat Qu at fermentation stages, and the prefermentation and postfermentation Huangjiu samples could be well distinguished from each other. Compared with the Huangjiu brewed from wheat Qu made by mechanical, the Huangjiu brewed from wheat Qu made by hand has stronger aroma and better taste.
Rainfall shocks, child mortality, and water infrastructure
Authors: Ponnusamy Sundar
Published: April 2022

I study the effect of rainfall shocks on child mortality at a sub‐national level for a global set of developing countries. I establish that negative (positive) shocks to rainfall lead to an increase (drop) in child deaths overall. Low‐income countries (LICs) and the group of countries reliant on agriculture are affected the most due to negative rainfall shocks. In LICs, the impact of negative rainfall shocks is mitigated by around 60% in districts located downstream to dams, an effect predominant among less affluent districts; in addition, the effect of rainfall fluctuations is persistent, lasting for up to three years following the shock. Results remain robust to the inclusion of relevant controls, to the consideration of relevant issues such as selective fertility and migration, and various other robustness tests.
Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytopathology: Adoption and outcomes in a community setting
Authors: Nassif Samih J. , Sasani Ali R. , Faller Garrey T. , Harb Jennifer L. , Dhingra Jagdish K.
Published: April 2022

Background

Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytopathology (MSRSGC) was introduced to standardize reporting of salivary gland cytopathology.

Methods

A retrospective review of ultrasound‐guided fine needle biopsy of salivary gland lesions was performed between January 2018 and May 2021 at a community otolaryngology practice. Diagnostic accuracy and rate of diagnostic sialoadenectomy were calculated.

Results

A total of 203 FNAs (fine needle aspiration) were performed in 184 patients. MSRSGC was utilized in 87/203 cytopathology reports, with a diagnostic accuracy of 84%. Descriptive reporting was used in 115 FNAs, with a diagnostic accuracy of 89% (p = 0.68). Sialoadenectomy rate was 41% for MSRSGC compared to 36% in descriptive cytopathology (p = 0.48).

Conclusions

MSRSGC is as accurate as descriptive cytopathology and the rate of diagnostic sialoadenectomy between both groups is similar in our community. The MSRSGC brings uniformity and standardization to the FNA reporting process.
MHD heat transfer flow over a moving wedge with convective boundary conditions with the influence of viscous dissipation and internal heat generation/absorption
Authors: Amar N. , Kishan N. , Shankar Goud B.
Published: April 2022

In this investigation, the problem of the study is the effect of the magnetic field and viscous dissipation on heat transfer flow through a moving wedge in the existence of the internal heat generation/absorption and also suction/injection. The governing equations are changed to some coupled nonlinear differential equations with aid of similarity variables. The numerical calculations of the equations are solved by the MATLAB package solver bvp5c. The changes of the pertinent constraints on the momentum and temperature have been discussed through graphs and numerical values of skin friction and heat transfer factor are listed in the tabular pattern. Although maintaining a constant value for the convection parameter, the Nusselt number is increased for and decreased for . The temperature rises in conjunction with an increase in and variables.
Artificial nanomotors: Fabrication, locomotion characterization, motion manipulation, and biomedical applications
Authors: Wang Liangmeng , Hao Xiaomeng , Gao Zhixue , Yang Zili , Long Yi , Luo Ming , Guan Jianguo
Published: April 2022

Artificial nanomotors are nanoscale machines capable of converting surrounding other energy into mechanical motion and thus entering the tissues and cells of organisms. They hold great potential to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of diseases by actively targeting the lesion location, though there are many new challenges that arise with decreasing the size to nanoscale. This review summarizes and comments on the state‐of‐the‐art artificial nanomotors with advantages and limitations. It starts with the fabrication methods, including common physical vapor deposition and colloidal chemistry methods, followed by the locomotion characterization and motion manipulation. Then, the in vitro and in vivo biomedical applications are introduced in detail. The challenges and future prospects are discussed at the end.
Utilizing the spatial frequency domain imaging to investigate change in optical parameters of skin exposed to thermal‐hydrotherapy: Ex‐vivo study
Authors: Abdelazeem Rania M. , Hamdy Omnia
Published: April 2022

Hydrotherapy is a traditional clinical practice that has been widely used for pain relief. However, immersion in hot water influences skin's moisture and morphology. In this study, we investigate the physiological changes of ex‐vivo chicken skin immersed in hot water (at 40 and 50°C) via monitoring the change in its absorption and scattering properties using the spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) technique. The procedure started by calculating the modulation transfer function of the proposed imaging system over a range of spatial frequencies using a high‐resolution test target. Thereafter, structured illumination patterns at different spatial frequencies were projected onto the examined samples via a reflective phase‐only spatial light modulator using transmission and reflection modes. The transmission and reflection images were recorded using a digital camera to reconstruct the optical absorption and scattering parameters. Such parameters were calculated using Kubelka–Munk and lookup table methods. For system validation, the optical properties of two kinds of milk (skimmed and full cream), as reference samples, were reconstructed using the proposed SFDI system in the reflection mode via lookup table method. The results revealed an increase in the scattering coefficient of the skin samples immersed in higher water temperature, while the absorption coefficient values were nearly the same. Furthermore, the obtained results were validated using Monte‐Carlo method showing absolute errors that range from 0.004 to 0.057. In conclusion, the proposed system was presented to investigate the changes in ex‐vivo skin properties under thermal‐hydrotherapy in the context of measured changes in optical parameters.
Increasing social time allocation and concomitant effects on mands, item engagement, and rigid or repetitive behavior
Authors: Morris Samuel L. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: April 2022

Recent research has developed methods of assessing the function of generic, nonindividualized social interactions. The purpose of this type of assessment is to provide a measure of how an individual may respond to the types of interactions readily available in the natural environment. To date, no research has evaluated how the social time allocation of individuals for whom generic interactions are neutral or aversive could be improved. Moreover, no research has included additional dependent variables that may be functionally related to social time allocation. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of initiating preferred, individualized social interactions on the social time allocation of 3 participants for whom generic interactions functioned as neutral or aversive stimuli. The intervention increased social time allocation for all 3 participants. Next, we evaluated the relation between social time allocation and the occurrence of mands, item engagement, and rigid or repetitive behavior using the intervention data as well as secondary analyses of previously published datasets. The occurrence of mands and rigid or repetitive behaviors changed with improvements in social time allocation and were strongly correlated with social time allocation across participants. Implications for future research on, and the clinical use of, this type of assessment and intervention are discussed.
The emerging roles of the interaction between m6A modification and c‐Myc in driving tumorigenesis and development
Authors: Zheng Lemei , Li Mengna , Wei Jianxia , Chen Shipeng , Xue Changning , Zhan Yuting , Duan Yumei , Deng Hongyu , Xiong Wei , Li Guiyuan , Zhou Ming
Published: April 2022

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is an extremely common and conservative posttranscriptional modification, that can specifically target and regulate the expression or stability of a series of tumor‐related genes, thus playing critical roles in the occurrence and development of tumors. c‐Myc is an important tumorigenic transcription factor that promotes tumorigenesis and development by mainly regulating the expression of downstream target genes. Increasing evidence shows that m6A modification, as well as abnormal expression and regulation of c‐Myc, is critical molecular mechanisms driving tumorigenesis and development. Although more evidence has been uncovered about the individual roles of m6A modification or c‐Myc in tumors, the interaction between m6A modification and c‐Myc in tumorigenesis and development has not been systematically summarized. Therefore, this review is focused on the mutual regulation between m6A modification and c‐Myc expression and stability as well as its roles in tumorigenesis and development. We also summarized the potential value of the interaction between m6A modification and m6A expression and stability in tumor diagnosis and treatment, which provides a specific reference for revealing the mechanism of tumor occurrence and development as well as clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Calcium carbonate precipitation by cave bacteria isolated from Kashmir Cave, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Jan Saeed Ullah , Zada Sahib , Rafiq Muhammad , Khan Imran , Sajjad Wasim , Khan Muhammad Anwar , Hasan Fariha
Published: April 2022

The participation of numerous physicochemical and biological functions maintains the evolution and expansion of the remarkable nature. Due to its vast applicability in several engineering disciplines, naturally occurring bio‐mineralization or microbially induced calcium carbonate (MICP) precipitation is attracting more interest. Cave bacteria contribute to the precipitation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). In the present study, soil sediments were collected from Kashmir cave, KPK, Pakistan, and plated on B4 specific nutrients limited medium for bacterial isolation and the viable bacterial count was calculated. Three bacterial strains named GSN‐11, TFSN‐14, and TFSN‐15 were capable of precipitating CaCO3. These bacterial isolates were identified through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and strain GSN‐11 was identified as Bacillus toyonensis, TFSN‐14 as Paracoccus limosus and TFSN‐15 as Brevundimonas diminuta. Enhanced CaCO3 precipitation potential of these bacteria strains was observed at 25°C and pH 5. The precipitated CaCO3 was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, and Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy. The findings showed that the precipitates were dominated by calcite, aragonite, and nanosize vaterite. Current research suggests that precipitation of CaCO3 by proteolytic cave bacteria is widespread in Kashmir cave and these bacterial communities can actively contribute to the formation of CaCO3 by enhancing the pH of the microenvironment.

Research Highlights

Kashmir cave inhabit potentially active bacteria in terms of biogeochemical processes.

Cave bacteria significantly precipitated CaCO3.

Calcite, aragonite, and nanosize vaterite were dominant in precipitates.
Fate and seasonality of antimicrobial resistance genes during full‐scale anaerobic digestion of cattle manure across seven livestock production facilities
Authors: Burch Tucker R. , Firnstahl Aaron D. , Spencer Susan K. , Larson Rebecca A. , Borchardt Mark A.
Published: April 2022

Anaerobic digestion has been suggested as an intervention to attenuate antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in livestock manure but supporting data have typically been collected at laboratory scale. Few studies have quantified ARG fate during full‐scale digestion of livestock manure. We sampled untreated manure and digestate from seven full‐scale mesophilic dairy manure digesters to assess ARG fate through each system. Samples were collected biweekly from December through August (i.e., winter, spring, and summer; n = 235 total) and analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction for intI1, erm(B), sul1, tet(A), and tet(W). Concentrations of intI1, sul1, and tet(A) decreased during anaerobic digestion, but their removal was less extensive than expected based on previous laboratory studies. Removal for intI1 during anaerobic digestion equaled 0.28 ± 0.03 log10 units (mean ± SE), equivalent to only 48% removal and notable given intI1’s role in horizontal gene transfer and multiple resistance. Furthermore, tet(W) concentrations were unchanged during anaerobic digestion (p > 0.05), and erm(B) concentrations increased by 0.52 ± 0.03 log10 units (3.3‐fold), which is important given erythromycin's status as a critically important antibiotic for human medicine. Seasonal log10 changes in intI1, sul1, and tet(A) concentrations were ≥50% of corresponding log10 removals by anaerobic digestion, and variation in ARG and intI1 concentrations among digesters was quantitatively comparable to anaerobic digestion effects. These results suggest that mesophilic anaerobic digestion may be limited as an intervention for ARGs in livestock manure and emphasize the need for multiple farm‐level interventions to attenuate antibiotic resistance.
Accessory liver lobe in the right thoracic cavity
Authors: Ihara Kousuke , Isono Hiroki
Published: April 2022

A healthy 42‐year‐old man presented to the hospital because of chest radiography performed during a medical checkup revealed a tumor. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography showed a tumor of 5 cm diameter just above the right diaphragm with blood flow from the portal vein. The patient was diagnosed with accessory liver lobe (ALL). No finding suggested malignancy, and he is being followed up. ALLs are usually found in the abdominal cavity, but they can also be found in the thoracic cavity. Although ALL is rare, it should be considered in patients presenting with intrathoracic tumors.
JPNclinical practice guidelines 2021 with easy‐to‐understand explanations for the management of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Takada Tadahiro , Isaji Shuji , Mayumi Toshihiko , Yoshida Masahiro , Takeyama Yoshifumi , Itoi Takao , Sano Keiji , Iizawa Yusuke , Masamune Atsushi , Hirota Morihisa , Okamoto Kohji , Inoue Dai , Kitamura Nobuya , Mori Yasuhisa , Mukai Shuntaro , Kiriyama Seiki , Shirai Kunihiro , Tsuchiya Asuka , Higuchi Ryota , Hirashita Teijiro
Published: April 2022

Background

In preparing the Japanese (JPN) guidelines for the management of acute pancreatitis 2021, the committee focused the issues raised by the results of nationwide epidemiological survey in 2016 in Japan.

Method

In addition to a systematic search using the previous JPN guidelines, papers published from January 2014 to September 2019 were searched for the contents to be covered by the guidelines based on the concept of GRADE system.

Results

Thirty‐six clinical questions (CQ) were prepared in 15 subject areas. Based on the facts that patients diagnosed with severe disease by both Japanese prognostic factor score and contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) grade had a high fatality rate and that little prognosis improvement after 2 weeks of disease onset was not obtained, we emphasized the importance of Pancreatitis Bundles, which were shown to be effective in improving prognosis, and the CQ sections for local pancreatic complications had been expanded to ensure adoption of a step‐up approach. Furthermore, on the facts that enteral nutrition for severe acute pancreatitis was not started early within 48 h of admission and that unnecessary prophylactic antibiotics was used in almost all cases, we emphasized early enteral nutrition in small amounts even if gastric feeding is used and no prophylactic antibiotics are administered in mild pancreatitis.

Conclusion

All the members of the committee have put a lot of effort into preparing the extensively revised guidelines in the hope that more people will have a common understanding and that better medical care will be spread.
Laughing with me or laughing at me? The differential effects of leader humor expressions on follower status and influence at work
Authors: Carnevale Joel B. , Huang Lei , Yam Kai Chi , Wang Lin
Published: April 2022

Although research suggests that leader humor shapes followers' perceptions of their leaders' status, questions remain as to whether and how leader humor can shape followers' own acquisition of status at work. Drawing from the approach‐avoidance framework, we provide an important extension to the leader humor literature by developing a serial mediation model that explains how and why two styles of leader humor—aggressive humor and affiliative humor—differentially impact followers' ability to garner and wield social influence in the work environment. We theorize that leader aggressive humor, which constitutes unconstrained execution of power that is invasive and hostile in nature, produces a status‐suppressing effect by activating followers' avoidance system, whereas leader affiliative humor, which constitutes relational connection with restrained superiority, produces a status‐enabling effect by activating followers' approach system. We further propose that leader aggressive (affiliative) humor has a negative (positive) indirect effect on followers' constructive voice and work engagement via their avoidance (approach) orientation and workplace status. We find consistent support for our hypothesized predictions across two survey studies. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of this study.
Theoretical analysis toward better description of the wavenumber shifts of the OH stretch of hydrogen‐bonded water
Authors: Kitamura Yukichi , Torii Hajime
Published: April 2022

Relating vibrational properties to intermolecular configurations is generally important for correct analysis and interpretation of infrared and Raman spectra of condensed‐phase systems. Here, a theoretical analysis in this direction is conducted through calculations on (water)90 clusters for better description of the OH stretch of hydrogen‐bonded water. It is shown that, while the electric field descriptor related to the vibrating OH bond primarily describes the wavenumber shift arising from hydrogen‐bond formation, the secondary descriptors related to the other OH bond in the same water molecule noticeably improve the performance of theoretical modeling. It is also shown that, for the electric field descriptor, the electric charge configuration is an important factor for good performance. Explicit forms of those descriptors are presented that may be applicable to spectral simulations through combination with classical molecular dynamics. The mechanism behind the secondary descriptors is also discussed.
Influence of fish skin gelatin–sodium alginate complex stabilized emulsion on benzyl isothiocyanate stability and digestibilityin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Zhang Xiangyu , Liu Zhiyu , Wang Ailin , Zhang Simin , Nakamura Yoshimasa , Lin Songyi , Tang Yue
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

An emulsion delivery system for benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) was prepared using fish skin gelatin (FSG) and sodium alginate (Alg). The effects of the FSG–Alg complex on the emulsion stability and BITC release pattern from the emulsion were investigatedin vitroandin vivo.

RESULTS

The storage stability and embedding rate of the 10 g kg−1FSG and 2.5 g kg−1Alg (FSG–Alg) emulsion were the highest among all samples. The FSG–Alg complex provided BITC a better protection duringin vitrodigestion. The microstructure of the FSG–Alg emulsions was more stable duringin vitrodigestion, and the bioaccessibility and retention rate of BITC were much higher compared to those of the FSG emulsion. The results of theex vivoeverted gut sac of rat intestine study showed that the FSG–Alg emulsion significantly increased the BITC absorption rate in the duodenum.

CONCLUSION

The FSG–Alg emulsion delivery system is a highly stable system for the delivery of BITC that improves the bioaccessibility of BITC and promotes its absorption in the duodenum. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on alloplastic breast reconstruction: An analysis of national outcomes
Authors: Chiang Sarah N. , Finnan Michael J. , Skolnick Gary B. , Sacks Justin M. , Christensen Joani M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction shifted to the outpatient setting during the COVID‐19 pandemic to conserve inpatient hospital beds while providing timely oncologic care. We examine the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database for trends in and safety of outpatient breast reconstruction during the pandemic.

Methods

NSQIP data were filtered for immediate alloplastic breast reconstructions between April and December of 2019 (before‐COVID) and 2020 (during‐COVID); the proportion of outpatient procedures was compared. Thirty‐day complications were compared for noninferiority between propensity‐matched outpatients and inpatients utilizing a 1% risk difference margin.

Results

During COVID, immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction cases decreased (4083 vs. 4677) and were more frequently outpatient (31% vs. 10%, p < 0.001). Outpatients had lower rates of smoking (6.8% vs. 8.4%, p = 0.03) and obesity (26% vs. 33%, p < 0.001). Surgical complication rates of outpatient procedures were noninferior to propensity‐matched inpatients (5.0% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.03 noninferiority). Reoperation rates were lower in propensity‐matched outpatients (5.2% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction shifted towards outpatient procedures during the COVID‐19 pandemic with noninferior complication rates. Therefore, a paradigm shift towards outpatient reconstruction for certain patients may be safe. However, decreased reoperations in outpatients may represent undiagnosed complications and warrant further investigation.
Recent Progress in Micro‐LED‐Based Display Technologies
Authors: Anwar Abdur Rehman , Sajjad Muhammad T. , Johar Muhammad Ali , Hernández‐Gutiérrez Carlos A. , Usman Muhammad , Łepkowski S. P.
Published: April 2022

The demand for high‐performance displays is continuously increasing because of their wide range of applications in smart devices (smartphones/watches), augmented reality, virtual reality, and naked eye 3D projection. High‐resolution, transparent, and flexible displays are the main types of display to be used in future. In the above scenario, the micro‐LEDs (light‐emitting diodes) display which has outstanding features, such as low power consumption, wider color gamut, longer lifetime, and short response‐time, can replace traditional liquid crystal displays and organic LEDs‐based display technologies. However, to attain a remarkable position in future display technology, the micro‐LEDs need to overcome problems associated with mass transfer and its high cost of manufacturing. Besides micro‐LEDs, the other option for future displays includes the usage of color conversion medium (phosphor/ quantum dots) to convert some of the blue light into other colors. In this review, the various mass transfer display technologies and color conversion strategies which are being used for the realization of a full‐color display are discussed.
Template Assembled Large‐Size CsPbBr3 Nanocomposite Films toward Flexible, Stable, and High‐Performance X‐Ray Scintillators
Authors: Wang Baiqian , Peng Jiali , Yang Xin , Cai Wensi , Xiao Hongbin , Zhao Shuangyi , Lin Qianqian , Zang Zhigang
Published: April 2022

Metal halide perovskite‐based high‐performance X‐ray scintillator is considered as one of the most favorable candidates applied in the fields of medicine, industry, and science. However, the current X‐ray scilltillators based on perovskites still suffer from the issue of poor stability, which impedes their further wide applications. Herein, a template assembled method to prepare large‐size, flexible, and stable CsPbBr3@Polymethyl methacrylate composite films in ambient conditions is developed and their detection performance is studied. The composite films can maintain 94% and 81% of the initial PL intensity after 2000 cycles bending and storing in water over 2520 h, respectively. In addition, the prepared scintillators exhibit not only a low detection limit of 40.1 nGyair s−1 and a high spatial resolution of 8.0 lp mm−1, but also an excellent tolerance against radiation (108 h). Thus, this simple but yet effective method would not doubt pave the way for further development of scintillators and might be well applicable to other metal halides.
Progress in Hydrogels for Skin Wound Repair
Authors: Qi Liangfa , Zhang Chenlu , Wang Bo , Yin Jingbo , Yan Shifeng
Published: April 2022

As the first defensive line between the human body and the outside world, the skin is vulnerable to damage from the external environment. Skin wounds can be divided into acute wounds (mechanical injuries, chemical injuries, and surgical wounds, etc.) and chronic wounds (burns, infections, diabetes, etc.). In order to manage skin wound, a variety of wound dressings have been developed, including gauze, films, foams, nanofibers, hydrocolloids, and hydrogels. Recently, hydrogels have received much attention because of their natural extracellular matrix (ECM)‐mimik structure, tunable mechanical properties, and facile bioactive substance delivery capability. They show great potential application in skin wound repair. This paper first introduces the anatomy and function of the skin, the process of wound healing and conventional wound dressings, and then introduces the composition and construction methods of hydrogels. Next, this paper introduces the necessary properties of hydrogels in skin wound repair and the latest research progress of hydrogel dressings for skin wound repair. Finally, the future development goals of hydrogel materials in the field of wound healing are proposed.
A study on geopolymer composites based on waste from wind turbine blades
Authors: Figiela B. , Korniejenko K. , Łach M. , Azzopardi B.
Published: April 2022

Circular waste management is the answer to the daily waste of all types. Wind power plants installed in the 1990s are ending their service life of turbine blades, hence the need to properly manage this waste. The aim of the article is to investigate the mechanical properties of mining and industrial waste The article presents the results of research on geopolymers based on coal shale of the Staszic mine and waste from wind turbine blades in three types of compositions: 50/50, 72/25, 25/75. The results of the research show that these materials can be used as fillers for products that do not require high strength values.
DYT‐TUBB4A (DYT4 Dystonia): Clinical Anthology of 11 Cases and Systematized Review
Authors: Bally Julien F. , Kern Drew S. , Fearon Conor , Camargos Sarah , Pereira da Silva‐Junior Francisco , Barbosa Egberto Reis , Ozelius Laurie J. , de Carvalho Aguiar Patricia , Lang Anthony E.
Published: April 2022

Background

DYT‐TUBB4A, formerly known as DYT4, has not been comprehensively described as only one large family and three individual cases have been published. We have recently described an in depth genetic and protein structural analysis of eleven additional cases from four families with four new pathogenic variants. We aim to report on the phenomenology of these cases suffering from DYT‐TUBB4A and to perform a comprehensive review of the clinical presentation and treatment responses of all DYT‐TUBB4A cases reported in the literature.

Cases and Literature Review

The clinical picture was typically characterized by laryngeal dystonia (more than three quarters of all cases), associated with cervical dystonia, upper limb dystonia and frequent generalization. Extension of the dystonia to the lower limbs, creating the famous “hobby horse” gait, was present in more than 20% of cases (in only one of ours). Globus pallidus pars interna (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS), performed in 4 cases, led to a good improvement with greatest benefit in motoric and less benefit in laryngeal symptoms. Medical treatment was generally rather poorly effective, except some benefit from propranolol, tetrabenazine and alcohol intake.

Conclusion

Laryngeal involvement is a hallmark of DYT‐TUBB4A. Symptomatic treatment with GPi‐DBS led to the greatest benefit in motoric symptoms. Nevertheless, TUBB4A mutations remain an exceedingly rare cause of laryngeal or other isolated dystonia and regular screening of TUBB4A mutations for isolated dystonias has a very low yield.
A high efficiency fluidly reconfigurable antenna with detached feeding
Authors: Huang Jinfeng , Xing Lei , Xu Qian
Published: April 2022

In this study, a pure water antenna with a tunable radiation pattern is proposed, which combines the idea of the Yagi antenna and the reflector antenna to realize a steerable directional beam. By sufficiently utilizing the excellent features of water: fluidity, transparency, and reconfigurability, this proposed design achieves a 360° beam coverage. In addition, a detached feeding structure is introduced to effectively avoid liquid leakage and corrosion. This type of antenna has 25 different working states covering the working frequency from 2.36 to 2.6 GHz (S11 < −10 dB), a high radiation efficiency (70%), and a maximum realized gain of 5.8 dB. This design is expected to be a promising candidate for the internet of things applications.
Dynamic pulmonary MRI using motion‐state weighted motion‐compensation (MostMoCo) reconstruction with ultrashort TE: A structural and functional study
Authors: Ding Zekang , Cheng Zenghui , She Huajun , Liu Bei , Yin Yongfang , Du Yiping P.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To improve the quality of structural images and the quantification of ventilation in free‐breathing dynamic pulmonary MRI.

Methods

A 3D radial ultrashort TE (UTE) sequence with superior–inferior navigators was used to acquire pulmonary data during free breathing. All acquired data were binned into different motion states according to the respiratory signal extracted from superior–inferior navigators. Motion‐resolved images were reconstructed using eXtra‐Dimensional (XD) UTE reconstruction. The initial motion fields were generated by registering images at each motion state to other motion states in motion‐resolved images. A motion‐state weighted motion‐compensation (MostMoCo) reconstruction algorithm was proposed to reconstruct the dynamic UTE images. This technique, termed as MostMoCo‐UTE, was compared with XD‐UTE and iterative motion‐compensation (iMoCo) on a porcine lung and 10 subjects.

Results

MostMoCo reconstruction provides higher peak SNR (37.0 vs. 35.4 and 34.2) and structural similarity (0.964 vs. 0.931 and 0.947) compared to XD‐UTE and iMoCo in the porcine lung experiment. Higher apparent SNR and contrast‐to‐noise ratio are achieved using MostMoCo in the human experiment. MostMoCo reconstruction better preserves the temporal variations of signal intensity of parenchyma compared to iMoCo, shows reduced random noise and improved sharpness of anatomical structures compared to XD‐UTE. In the porcine lung experiment, the quantification of ventilation using MostMoCo images is more accurate than that using XD‐UTE and iMoCo images.

Conclusion

The proposed MostMoCo‐UTE provides improved quality of structural images and quantification of ventilation for free‐breathing pulmonary MRI. It has the potential for the detection of structural and functional disorders of the lung in clinical settings.
Styrene‐butadiene‐styrene‐based shape memory polymers: Evolution and the current state of art
Authors: Basak Sayan , Bandyopadhyay Abhijit
Published: April 2022

Styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) block copolymers comprise of two phases structured domains involving polystyrene “hard” domains and butadiene “soft” domains. The styreneic domains provide a physical crosslink that enables SBS to behave like a highly flexible thermoplastic elastomer. Recently, with the rise of smart elastomers, SBS‐based matrices are being extensively used in transforming them into elastomers that can exhibit shape change when excited with a range of stimuli (shape memory elastomers). With the advantages of long‐range elasticity, reprocessability, and ability to be modified into various tailor‐made shape morphing elastomers, the use SBS‐based elastomers has exceptionally risen in the scope of deployable structures temperature sensors, snap fittings, and actuators. This review attempts to tether the recent development in SBS‐based shape memory polymers along with highlighting the fabrication routes and the shape memory mechanistic pathway. The review introduces the concept of shape memory polymers, classification, and their characterization, followed by shape memory elastomers and finally one way/two‐way SBS‐based shape memory elastomers. In an attempt to blend both the scientific and the engineering realm, the narrative provides a concise overview of SBS‐based shape morphing polymers' expanding boundaries.
What is the prevalence of fear of cancer recurrence in cancer survivors and patients? A systematic review and individual participant data meta‐analysis
Authors: Luigjes‐Huizer Yvonne L. , Tauber Nina M. , Humphris Gerry , Kasparian Nadine A. , Lam Wendy W. T. , Lebel Sophie , Simard Sébastien , Smith Allan Ben , Zachariae Robert , Afiyanti Yati , Bell Katy J. L. , Custers José A. E. , de Wit Niek J. , Fisher Peter L. , Galica Jacqueline , Garland Sheila N. , Helsper Charles W. , Jeppesen Mette M. , Liu Jianlin , Mititelu Roxana , Monninkhof Evelyn M. , Russell Lahiru , Savard Josée , Speckens Anne E. M. , van Helmondt Sanne J. , Vatandoust Sina , Zdenkowski Nicholas , van der Lee Marije L.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Care for fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is considered the most common unmet need among cancer survivors. Yet the prevalence of FCR and predisposing factors remain inconclusive. To support targeted care, we provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence and severity of FCR among cancer survivors and patients, as measured using the short form of the validated Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI‐SF). We also report on associations between FCR and clinical and demographic characteristics.

Methods

This is a systematic review and individual participant data (IPD) meta‐analysis on the prevalence of FCR. In the review, we included all studies that used the FCRI‐SF with adult (≥18 years) cancer survivors and patients. Date of search: 7 February 2020. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool.

Results

IPD were requested from 87 unique studies and provided for 46 studies comprising 11,226 participants from 13 countries. 9311 respondents were included for the main analyses. On the FCRI‐SF (range 0–36), 58.8% of respondents scored ≥13, 45.1% scored ≥16 and 19.2% scored ≥22. FCR decreased with age and women reported more FCR than men. FCR was found across cancer types and continents and for all time periods since cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions

FCR affects a considerable number of cancer survivors and patients. It is therefore important that healthcare providers discuss this issue with their patients and provide treatment when needed. Further research is needed to investigate how best to prevent and treat FCR and to identify other factors associated with FCR.

The protocol was prospectively registered (PROSPERO CRD42020142185).
An Energetic Coordination Polymer with High Thermal Stability and Initiation Power
Authors: Huang Wei , Yin Zhaoyang , Dong Yaqun , Liu Yuji , Tang Yongxing
Published: April 2022

Lead‐free, eco‐friendly primary explosive which can replace lead azide (LA) has been a long‐lasting challenge. Hereby, a new candidate copper(I) 5‐(2,2‐diamino‐1‐nitrovinyl)tetrazolate (CTX) was synthesized through a mild metathesis reaction by bridging nitrogen‐rich heterocycles with Cu(I) centers. The structure was characterized with IR spectrum, NMR spectrum, X‐ray diffraction, and elemental analysis. The linear reinforced structure and condensed packing pattern of CTX lead to its high density (2.16 g cm−3) and low sensitivities (IS=10 J, FS>120 N). It also exhibits a remarkably high thermal stability (340 °C), which to our knowledge, is the highest one known for the energetic coordination polymers (ECPs). The initiation capability test reveals CTX has high priming ability comparable to LA. The combined properties and performances contribute to its future prospects as a promising green primary explosive.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Alternate Pulsed Epitaxial Growth of GaAs Nanowires
Authors: Nastovjak Alla G. , Shterental David V. , Shwartz Nataliya L.
Published: April 2022

The Monte Carlo simulation of a self‐catalyzed GaAs nanowire (NW) growth regime is proposed and realized, where gallium and arsenic are deposited in pulsed intervals. Such a pulsed epitaxial growth mode allows low‐temperature epitaxial growth of long GaAs NWs. The influence of gallium and arsenic pulse durations and sequences on the NW morphology is investigated. The catalyst droplet size and contact angle, as well as the diffusion length of Ga adatoms along the NW sidewalls, determine the wire morphology. For a dense NW array, the arsenic readsorption starts to affect the NW growth. The influence of arsenic readsorption on the formation of Ga liquid droplets on the NW sidewalls is investigated with the help of annealing simulations. The significant role of the mass transfer of evaporated materials is demonstrated for GaAs NW morphology.
Intrathoracic lipoma of the chest wall that appeared relatively rapidly and could be resected and diagnosed by minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery: A case report
Authors: Hirai Yoshimitsu , Mikasa Yurina , Iguchi Hideto , Fusamoto Aya , Yata Yumi , Ohashi Takuya , Nishimura Yoshiharu
Published: April 2022

The occurrence of lipoma in the thoracic cavity is relatively rare, and it is clinically difficult to distinguish it from liposarcoma. We report a case of intrathoracic lipoma that was pathologically diagnosed and differentiated from liposarcoma after minimally invasive thoracoscopic tumour resection. A 35‐year‐old male patient without any symptoms was referred to our hospital due to an abnormal shadow on chest x‐ray. Computed tomography showed a low‐attenuated round‐shaped mass of 3.6 cm × 2.3 cm in diameter in the left chest wall. On magnetic resonance imaging, the mass was displayed as a high, high and low signal mass on T1‐weighted imaging (WI), T2WI and T2WI with fat suppression, respectively. We suspected a chest wall‐type lipoma, but because it appeared in a relatively short period of time and we thought it could be liposarcoma, we performed minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery for diagnosis and treatment. The tumour was a stalked tumour with a capsule, contiguous to the wall pleura with only a single cord‐like structure. The majority of the tumour was found free in the pleural cavity. The tumour was diagnosed as a lipoma by histopathological examination.
One‐Step Template‐Free Laser Patterning of Metal Microhoneycomb Structures
Authors: Hwang June Sik , Arthanari Srinivasan , Park Jong‐Eun , Yang Minyang , Kim Sanha , Kim Seung‐Woo , Lee Huseung , Kim Young‐Jin
Published: April 2022

Metal microhoneycomb structures have received considerable attention as a type of interaction‐efficient functional devices owing to their unique morphology and material properties. Microhoneycomb structures are mainly fabricated using the well‐known breath‐figure method. However, additional post‐treatments are required to produce a metal structure because it is a polymer‐based process, and this necessitates expensive, complex, and multi‐step fabrication processes. Therefore, a simple, low‐cost metal honeycomb fabrication process is necessary. In this paper, the laser patterning of an organometallic solution to produce silver microhoneycomb (Ag microhoneycomb) structures is proposed. Various phenomena such as rapid organic evaporation, silver nanoparticle solidification, and material reorganization from Marangoni flow are found to enable patterning‐induced microhoneycomb formation. Parametric studies demonstrate that the pore size can be easily controlled through simple laser parameter changes. In addition, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies confirm the potential electrochemical applications of the Ag microhoneycomb structures based on the variation of electrochemical redox behavior depending on the pore size. Owing to the excellent advantages of one‐step laser patterning without any templates, the proposed process will likely promote the practical use of the metal microhoneycomb structures.