bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Patch: An Artful Syn(aes)thetic Mapping of Linguistic Data through Collaborative Digital / Analogue Literacy Processes
Authors: James Kedrick , Horst Rachel , Takeda Yuya Peco , Morales Esteban
Published: November 2021

The Patch workshop explores creative / critical analyses that can map the collectively relevant topoi of semiosis in linguistic texts according to the three ecologies as articulated by Félix Guattari. As creative pedagogues both in service and critical of creative economics, we valourize a generative practice, one that results in successive creative readings, writings, visualizations, sonifications and audiovisual artifacts. The Patch is a human-computer procedural algorithm, engaging a series of recursive and recombinant processes that utilize several software programs, collaborative writing and performance practices to bridge analogue and digital literacies. A total of 80 teacher education students, graduate students and faculty, working with a single input text, provided the data reported in this paper.
Henry Clerval Scolding Victor Frankenstein: An autoethnographic poem about graduate students and their daemons
Authors: Henze Adam David
Published: November 2021

This article explores the “daemons” that many university students face by exploring Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a creative way. Using a poetic method called “erasure,” the author of this article cut fragmented descriptions of Victor Frankenstein, and stitched them together to craft a poem about the need for self-care in the university setting. The poem includes a preface to provide some theoretical context and background information on Frankenstein.
A Creative Pedagogue's Inquiry through Images: Does it Have Wings?
Authors: Rajabali Anar
Published: November 2021

In this photo essay, I enact how a creative pedagogue engages with artistic practice and contemplative inquiry. As a poet, at home in words, photography represents a creative risk. This vulnerability is felt in the sharing of the work through the lens of (re)search. Hence, I ask: Does it have wings? By delving in expressive forms toward the service of understanding my personal and pedagogical self, creative risk is rewarded in profound ways. I have discovered that my art practice is driven by intention, intuition and imagination. Thus, here is my creative pedagogy in action illuminating how an inquiry through images provokes learning and teaching. Both poetry and photography provide keen vision—a way of sensing and seeing Light.
Sock Hops and Red Rooms: On Teaching Jane Eyre to Marginalized Students
Authors: Elsherief Heba
Published: November 2021

This short story illustrates an occasion of culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogical practices in relation to the canonical texts which are often used in urban classrooms. In it, a lesson on Jane Eyre’s childhood point of view and mode of introspectiveness delves into a tale of dancing and Otherness. The story shows that in spaces where the majority of students are marginalized, opportunities wherein diverse bodies are encouraged to respond in ways that are meaningful to them, to “write themselves” into narratives, are crucial for inclusive and equity-building engagement.
Enhanced soluble sugar content in tomato fruit using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated SlINVINH1 and SlVPE5 gene editing
Authors: Wang Baike , Li Ning , Huang Shaoyong , Hu Jiahui , Wang Qiang , Tang Yaping , Yang Tao , Asmutola Patiguli , Wang Juan , Yu Qinghui
Published: November 2021

Soluble sugar is known to improve the sweetness and increase tomato sauce yield. Studies have focused on improving the content of soluble sugar in tomato fruits, usually by promoting functional genes. We studied two genes (SlINVINH1 and SlVPE5) that inhibited the accumulation of soluble sugar in tomato fruits and obtained two genes’ knocked-out lines (CRISPR-invinh1 or CRISPR-vpe5) using CRISPR/Cas9. Aggregated lines with CRISPR-invinh1 and CRISPR-vpe5 were gained by hybridization and self-pollination. Compared to wild-type lines, the glucose, fructose, and total soluble solid (TSS) contents of CRISPR-invinh1 and CRISPR-vpe5 increased significantly. Glucose, fructose, and TSS levels further improved simultaneously with CRISPR-invinh1 and CRISPR-vpe5 than with single gene knock-out lines. This indicates that these genes have a synergistic effect and will increase the soluble sugar content. Thus, the knock-out SlINVINH1 and SlVPE5 may provide a practical basis for improving the sweetness of tomato fruits and their processing quality.
Assessing the Relationship between Digit Ratio as a Marker for Prenatal Androgen Exposure and Different Blood Pressure Components among North Indian Males: A Pilot Study
Authors: Maitra Arjun , Ailani Vinita , Srivastava Nitin , Verma Sajjan Lal
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Digit ratio (2D:4D) has been associated with cardiovascular diseases using association with surrogate markers. Studies showing an association of digit ratio with cardiovascular parameters within normal limits are scarce. Aim: To explore the relation between different blood pressure components and digit ratio in normal young males within physiological range. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional pilot study, 25 apparently healthy male volunteers were included. Digit ratio (2D:4D) was measured. Body Mass Index (BMI) was estimated. Peripheral blood pressure, central aortic blood pressure and all four limb blood pressures were measured using periscope arterial health and cardiovascular analysis system. Blood pressure was measured using oscillometric method from all peripheral sites and estimated central aortic pressure by a validated transfer function. Pearson’s correlation studies were performed to assess any preliminary association. Two groups were formed of low and high digit ratio and Student’s t-test was performed to assess any significant difference between the groups. Results: Digit ratio of both hands correlated best with peripheral Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (Right 2D:4D r=0.43, p<0.05/Left 2D:4D r=0.40, p<0.05). No significant association observed for peripheral systolic pressure (p>0.05) and digit ratio of both hands. Significant association observed for all four limb blood pressure components and digit ratio. Pulse pressure components did not show any association with digit ratio. Significant difference of blood pressure components was observed when low and high digit ratio groups were compared. It was observed that blood pressure components were on higher side within the normal limits among the subjects with high digit ratio. Conclusion: Preliminary observations from this pilot study suggests that in normal young adult males digit ratio associate positively with different blood pressure components in normotensive males and has the potential to be used as a potent marker for early changes in cardiovascular diseases.
Combined Endoscopic/Microscopic Cochlear Implantation Through the Oval Window
Authors: Cantore Italo
Published: November 2021

Standard round window (RW) cochlear implantation is a well-described technique. Implantation might be difficult in patients with inner and middle ear anomalies, in some cases because of not achieving adequate exposure to the RW, with a related higher risk of complications such as facial nerve injury. It is proposed a combined microscopic/endoscopic oval window approach in a 63 year old man affected by bilateral Menière disease, with bilateral severe sensorineural hearing loss, speech discrimination score for bysillabic words under 40% and a hidden RW by anomalous facial nerve course. All electrodes entered the cochlear with good freefield thresholds and auditory ability results. A partial marginalis nerve palsy occurred at the second postoperative day and completely reversed at 2 months from surgery. Endoscopicassisted oval window cochlear implantation may be a safe alternative surgical technique in cases where surgeons are not able to access RW.
Role of Anthropometric Data in Assessing Hamstring Graft Size in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Murthy Sathesh Kumar , Ramkumar M. Sai Deiv , Raghavn Niranjan M. , Pooja B. , Sundaram Shanmuga
Published: November 2021

Background and Objective: Preoperative information of hamstring graft size for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL) is critical for making optimal graft selections. The aim of the present study was to view whether anthropometric parameters including height, weight, BMI and thigh circumference have any bearing on the size of hamstring tendon grafts used in anterior cruciate ligament replacement.

Methods: Pre-operative anthropometric measurements were taken on 72 patients undergoing primary ACL reconstruction, including age, gender, height, weight, BMI, and thigh circumference. The Person correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation of these anthropometric variables and simple logistic regression was used to evaluate the correlation of these anthropometric variables on the size of the graft that was acquired.

Results: Gracilis tendon [GT] length correlates with height (r 1/4 0,432), and semitendinosus [ST] length correlates with thigh circumference (r 1/4 0,255). Women's graft diameter (7.16 ± 0.82 mm) smaller than that of men (7.39 ± 0.63 mm) (p > 0.05), although not statistically significant. The diameter of the autograft was shown to be strongly linked with parameters.

Conclusion: As a consequence, our findings suggest that anthropometric measures can be used in the preoperative planning and prediction of hamstring graft length and diameter in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.
Moisture‐Wicking, Breathable, and Intrinsically Antibacterial Electronic Skin Based on Dual‐Gradient Poly(ionic liquid) Nanofiber Membranes
Authors: Zheng Sijie , Li Weizheng , Ren Yongyuan , Liu Ziyang , Zou Xiuyang , Hu Yin , Guo Jiangna , Sun Zhe , Yan Feng
Published: November 2021

Electronic skin can detect minute electrical potential changes in the human skin and represent the body's state, which is critical for medical diagnostics and human–computer interface development. On the other hand, sweat has a significant effect on the signal stability, comfort, and safety of electronic skin in a real‐world application. In this study, by modifying the cation and anion of a poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) and employing a spinning process, a PIL‐based multilayer nanofiber membrane (PIL membrane) electronic skin with a dual gradient is created. The PIL electronic skin is moisture‐wicking and breathable due to the hydrophilicity and pore size‐gradients. The intrinsically antimicrobial activities of PILs allow the safe collection of bioelectrical signals from the human body, such as electrocardiography (ECG) and electromyography (EMG). In addition, a robotic hand may be operated in real‐time, and a preliminary human–computer interface can be accomplished by simple processing of the collected EMG signal. This study establishes a novel practical approach for monitoring and using bioelectrical signals in real‐world circumstances via the multifunctional electronic skin.
Roll‐to‐Roll Dry Transfer of Large‐Scale Graphene
Authors: Hong Nan , Kireev Dmitry , Zhao Qishen , Chen Dongmei , Akinwande Deji , Li Wei
Published: November 2021

A major challenge for graphene applications is the lack of mass production technology for large‐scale and high‐quality graphene growth and transfer. Here, a roll‐to‐roll (R2R) dry transfer process for large‐scale graphene grown by chemical vapor deposition is reported. The process is fast, controllable, and environmentally benign. It avoids chemical contamination and allows the reuse of graphene growth substrates. By controlling tension and speed of the R2R dry transfer process, the electrical sheet resistance is achieved as 9.5 kΩ sq−1, the lowest ever reported among R2R dry transferred graphene samples. The R2R dry transferred samples are used to fabricate graphene‐based field‐effect transistors (GFETs) on polymer. It is demonstrated that these flexible GFETs feature a near‐zero doping level and a gate leakage current one to two orders of magnitude lower than those fabricated using wet‐chemical etched graphene samples. The scalability and uniformity of the R2R dry transferred graphene is further demonstrated by successfully transferring a 3 × 3 in2 sample and measuring its field‐effect mobility with 36 millimeter‐scaled GFETs evenly spaced on the sample. The field‐effect mobility of the R2R dry transferred graphene is determined to be 205 ± 36 cm2 V−1.
Recent Progress in Materials Chemistry to Advance Flexible Bioelectronics in Medicine
Authors: Balakrishnan Gaurav , Song Jiwoo , Mou Chenchen , Bettinger Christopher J.
Published: November 2021

Designing bioelectronic devices that seamlessly integrate with the human body is a technological pursuit of great importance. Bioelectronic medical devices that reliably and chronically interface with the body can advance neuroscience, health monitoring, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Recent major efforts focus on investigating strategies to fabricate flexible, stretchable, and soft electronic devices, and advances in materials chemistry have emerged as fundamental to the creation of the next generation of bioelectronics. This review summarizes contemporary advances and forthcoming technical challenges related to three principal components of bioelectronic devices: i) substrates and structural materials, ii) barrier and encapsulation materials, and iii) conductive materials. Through notable illustrations from the literature, integration and device fabrication strategies and associated challenges for each material class are highlighted.
The relationship between mothers' second and fourth finger lengths (2D:4D) and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, head circumference, and 2D:4D) of the newborns
Authors: Çay Mahmut , Gürel Selçuk
Published: November 2021

Objectives

In our study, the relationship between male and female newborns' second finger (2D) and fourth finger (4D) lengths, height, weight, and head circumference measurements and their mothers' 2D and 4D lengths was examined.

Methods

One hundred and twenty mothers between the ages of 18 and 40 who recently gave birth and 60 females and 60 males newborns of these mothers participated in the study. Height, weight, and head circumference measurements of newborns were taken after birth. 2D and 4D length measurements of newborns and their mothers were made with a caliper with 0.01 mm precision which had.

Results

Right 2D:4D ratio (0.95 ± 0.08) of male newborns was found to be lower when compared with the right 2D:4D (1.00 ± 0.17) ratio of female newborns. Left 2D:4D ratio of male newborns (0.96 ± 0.07) was also found to be lower when compared with the left 2D:4D (0.98 ± 0.12) ratio of female newborns. Significant positive correlation was found between right 2D lengths of mothers of male newborns and newborns' weight and head diameter and between mothers' 2D:4D ratio and newborns' head diameter. Significant positive correlation was found between right 2D and 4D lengths of mothers of female newborns and female newborns' height, head circumference and right 2D and 4D lengths of female newborns. Significant positive correlation was found between left 2D lengths of mothers and female newborns' height, weight, and head circumference.

Conclusions

We think that the data obtained in our study will provide basic information for obstetricians in determining prenatal measurements and for neonatal physicians after delivery.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Cascade Reactions using Diazo Compounds as a Carbene Precursor to Construct Diverse Heterocycles
Authors: Soam Pooja , Kamboj Priya , Tyagi Vikas
Published: November 2021

Diazo compounds being used as a precursor of carbenes in synthetic chemistry by reacting them in different manners like photochemically, thermally or with metal catalysts. Further, the use of metals as a catalyst generates metallocarbenes in the reaction medium which has similar reactivity like free carbenes. In this context, a number of transition metal catalysts like Rh, Pd, Cu, Ru, Ir, Fe etc. have been employed to generate metal bound carbenes in the reaction medium. Among various metal catalyst, rhodium being used extensively in industry as well as in academia to catalyze a number of cascade transformations containing carbene insertion/transfer. In this review, we are covering the efforts made in the last five years toward the synthesis of highly important heterocyclic compounds such as isoquinoline, indoles, isocoumines, oxazoles, carbazoles etc. through rhodium catalysed cascade reactions containing carbene transfer as the vital step.
Assessment of antiproliferative activity of new half‐sandwich arene Ru (II) furylbenzhydrazone complexes
Authors: Prabaharan Ramya , Rengan Ramesh , Umapathy Devan , Arockiam Antony Joseph Velanganni , Małecki Jan Grzegorz
Published: November 2021

The study attempts in finding an effective anticancer activity of six new arene ruthenium (II) complexes possessing the composition of [(η6‐arene)Ru(L)Cl] (arene = benzene (1–3) /p‐cymene (4–6); L = 2‐furyl methyl benzhydrazones). Elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), UV–vis, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and high resolution mass spectrometry (HR‐MS) techniques were utilized to study the synthesized complexes. The single crystal X‐ray crystallography validated the bidentate mode of coordination of the benzhydrazone ligand and pseudo‐octahedral geometry around ruthenium ion. MTT assay has been performed to assess the in vitro growth of cancer cell inhibition ability of all the complexes against MCF‐7(breast carcinoma), HuH‐7 (hepatocellular carcinoma), and HeLa (cervical cancer), along with non‐cancerous L132 (human lung epithelium) cell lines. It has been found that all the six complexes exhibit good to excellent cytotoxicity toward the cancer cell lines tested with low IC50 values compared to cisplatin. Among the synthesized complexes, complex 6 shows potential cytotoxicity against all the cancer cell lines. The observed higher cytotoxicity of the complex 6 may be due to the electron donating methoxy group of the ligand and hydrophobic character of arene moiety. Eventually, the staining techniques such as AO‐EB, HOECHST 33342, RH‐123, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) establish that all the complexes bring about cell death via apoptosis. The present research results emphasize the more possibility to promote potential arene ruthenium anticancer agents.
Composite yarns with antibacterial nanofibrous sheaths produced by collectorless alternating‐current electrospinning for suture applications
Authors: Madheswaran Divyabharathi , Sivan Manikandan , Valtera Jan , Kostakova Eva Kuzelova , Egghe Tim , Asadian Mahtab , Novotny Vit , Nguyen Nhung H. A. , Sevcu Alena , Morent Rino , De Geyter Nathalie , Lukas David
Published: November 2021

Fabrication of strong antibacterial composite nanofibrous yarns (CNYs) for suture applications by using common direct current electrospinning has been technologically challenging. In this work, we have demonstrated a more straightforward and facile approach to fabricate chlorhexidine (CHX)‐containing antibacterial nanofibrous sheaths wounded around a polyamide core yarn using a novel collectorless alternating‐current electrospinning approach. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that the nanofibrous envelope was completely wrapped around the core yarn for both polymers, polyurethane, and polyamide 6 (PA6), used in this study. High‐performance liquid chromatography after dissolving of the CNYs confirmed the presence of CHX in the yarns, while X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that the amount is relatively low. The tensile properties of all the CNYs were better than of the core yarns and the CHX addition resulted in a lower envelope linear density and envelope adhesion force. Thermal gravimetric analysis showed that all CNYs are thermally stable within the temperature range of interest. Cytocompatibility tests with 3T3‐SA mouse fibroblast cells and antibacterial evaluations with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus showed that the CHX‐containing PA6‐based CNYs are biocompatible and have antibacterial properties, suggesting that these yarns can be used as functional and mechanically performant sutures.
Millefeuille‐like cellular structures of biopolymer blend foams prepared by the foam injection molding technique
Authors: Kim Dongho , Hikima Yuta , Ohshima Masahiro
Published: November 2021

Microcellular foams with unique cellular structures were prepared from poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(butylene succinate‐co‐adipate) (PBSA) blends using a foam injection molding technique with a core‐back operation. PLA and PBSA are biopolymers that are partially miscible with each other. When these biopolymers were blended, several blend morphologies appeared that were found to be dependent on the blend ratio. The blend morphologies and thermal and rheological properties of polymer blends with PLA/PBSA ratios of 100/0, 30/70, 50/50, 70/30, and 0/100 were observed, and the cellular structures of their foams were investigated. While most of the polymer blends showed sea and island structures, a polymer blend with a PLA/PBSA ratio of 50/50 showed a layered structure for the two polymers in which the continuous phases of both polymers were elongated along the flow direction used for injection molding. By utilizing the unique blend morphology and the difference in the viscosities of the two polymers, a millefeuille‐like microcellular structure was created from a 50/50 blend. Foams with millefeuille‐like cellular structures show unique anisotropic mechanical properties, and this study reveals a method for preparing foams of this type.
N‐(Biphenyl‐3‐ylmethyl)ethanamines as G protein‐biased agonists of 5‐HT7R
Authors: Kim Doyoung , Lee Jieon , Kwag Rina , Kim Hyunbin , Oh Hyunji , Moon Bongjin , Kim Hak Joong , Seong Jihye , Jeon Byungsun , Kang Taek , Choo Hyunah
Published: November 2021

There has been much attention to biased ligands of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) for potential pharmacological benefits. Recently, we reported N‐((6‐chloro‐2'‐methoxy‐[1,1'‐biphenyl]‐3‐yl)methyl)ethanamine 1 as G protein‐biased agonist of 5‐HT7R, which could be used as a chemical probe for the study on treatment discovery of autism spectrum disorder. Herein, we describe the synthesis of derivatives of the compound 1 and their biological evaluations in both G protein and β‐arrestin signaling pathway. Total 16 compounds were synthesized and evaluated, and the compounds 3c, 3f, 3i, and 3p could be called as G protein‐biased agonists like the compound 1. Among the four compounds, the compound 3c was the best in efficacy with an Emax value of 73% and the compound 3f was the most potent agonist with an EC50 value of 0.094 μM.
CFOs Need to Play a Bigger Role in Corporate Governance
Authors: Henman Linda
Published: November 2021

Dr. Linda Henman is the author of seven books, including Risky Business: Why Leaders Must Develop a Disruptive Mindset. She has more than 40 years of experience working with executives and boards in Fortune 500 companies and small businesses to help them exceed their strategic objectives by maximizing talent. In this article, Dr. Henman explains the critical role a chief financial officer can—and should—play in corporate governance.
A miniaturized analytical method based on molecularly imprinted absorbents for selective extraction of (S)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl‐2,2′‐diamine and combinatorial screening of polymer precursors by computational simulation
Authors: Xu Xin , Huo Feng , Zhu Yongxia , Dong Hongxing , Wang Yanhui , Liu Lijia , Zhang Chunhong , Zhao Fangbo
Published: November 2021

Chiral resolution of binaphthylamine is often a toilful conundrum in the field of analytical chemistry and biomedicine. The work puts forward a selective, sensitive, and miniaturized analytical method based on molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as adsorbent for miniaturized tip solid‐phase extraction (MTSPE) in the separation of binaphthylamine enantiomer. This method combines the advantages of MIPs (high selectivity), MTSPE (low consumption), and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC, high sensitivity). A simple synthesis methodology of MIP (P2) was conducted through bulk polymerization with (S)‐(−)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl‐2,2′‐diamine (S‐DABN) as template together with methacrylic acid monomer, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as cross‐linker in proper porogen, realizing a selective recognition and efficient enrichment for S‐DABN. The method exhibited appreciable linearity (0.06–1.00 mg ml−1), low quantification limit (0.056 mg ml−1), good absolute recoveries (45.70%–69.29%), and high precision (relative standard deviations ≤ 3.54%), along with low consumption (0.50 ml sample solution and 25.0 mg adsorbent). Based on the density functional theory, computational simulation was used to make a preliminary prediction for rational design of MIPs and gave a reasonable elaboration involving the potential mechanism of templates interacting with functional monomers. The adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics were investigated to evaluate the recombination process of substrates. In addition, the selectivity of MIPs for S‐DABN was obtained by MIP‐MTSPE coupled with HPLC, which supports the feasibility of this convenient design process. The proposed method was employed for selective extraction of S‐DABN and exhibited promising potential in the application of chiral analysis.
RWTH Aachen gewinnt Wettbewerb ChemCar 2021
Authors: Woppowa Ljuba
Published: November 2021

Auch 2021 haben sich engagierte Jungingenieure am ChemCar‐Wettbewerb beteiligt. Im Rahmen der ECCE/ECAB wurden die Sieger gekürt. Über den ersten Platz und den Pokal konnte sich das Team der RWTH Aachen freuen, gefolgt vom Team des Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, ‐Surabaya in Indonesien und dem Team der Universitüt Dortmund auf dem zweiten und dritten Platz.
Tabernaesine J, a Novel Vincamine‐Type Indole Alkaloid with 6/5/6/6/6/5/5 Heptacyclic‐Ring System Scaffold from Tabernaemontana pachysiphon
Authors: Yi Wen‐Fang , Adelakun Tiwalade A. , Bai Xue , Zhang Yu , Hao Xiao‐Jiang
Published: November 2021

Comprehensive Summary

Tabernaesine J (1), an unprecedented vincamine‐type indole alkaloid with 6/5/6/6/6/5/5 heptacyclic‐ring system, as well as one new biogenetically related vincamine‐type indole alkaloid (2), were isolated from leaves of Tabernaemontana pachysiphon. Their structures were established by a combination of HRESIMS, NMR, single crystal X‐ray diffraction, and ECD calculation. The unprecedented penta‐lactone ring in tabernaesine J (1) was postulated to be derived from acetyl‐CoA enolate anion. Alkaloid 2 combined with fluconazole has the potential to overcome fluconazole resistance in Candida albicans.
An Approach to Reviewing Local Context for Exception from Informed Consent Trials Using a Single IRB
Authors: Johnson Ann R. , Rigtrup Lisa M. , VanBuren John , Rothwell Erin , Dean J. Michael
Published: November 2021

In the context of emergency research, researchers can ask the institutional review board (IRB) to waive the regulatory requirement that individuals provide informed consent when enrolling in research studies. A requirement of the waiver of informed consent is that the reviewing IRB must review and approve a community consultation and public disclosure plan. It is critical that an IRB serving as the single IRB (sIRB) for multisite research be thoroughly versed in the local context concerns for each participating site to determine whether the site's community is being adequately consulted about the research in which individuals will be enrolled under an exception to the informed consent requirement. We designed an sIRB review model for evaluating site‐specific community consultation plans that included a local evaluation and feedback step, and we piloted the model with a four‐site, pediatric exception from informed consent (EFIC) clinical trial. We identified three key roles for the model: the sIRB, the investigators, and the representative of the institution's human research protection program (HRPP). We successfully collected the information and local input needed to evaluate each site's community consultation plan and applied the information to a thorough IRB review, despite the geographic distance between the study site and the sIRB.
T cells expressing multiple co‐inhibitory molecules in acute malaria are not exhausted but exert a suppressive function in mice
Authors: Brandi Johannes , Lehmann Cari , Kaminski Lea‐Christina , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian , Addo Marylyn , Ramharter Michael , Mackroth Maria , Jacobs Thomas , Riehn Mathias
Published: November 2021

Overwhelming activation of T cells in acute malaria is associated with severe outcomes. Thus, counter‐regulation by anti‐inflammatory mechanisms is indispensable for an optimal resolution of disease. Using Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) infection of C57BL/6 mice, we performed a comprehensive analysis of co‐inhibitory molecules expressed on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells using an unbiased cluster analysis approach. We identified similar T cell clusters co‐expressing several co‐inhibitory molecules like programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) and lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG‐3) in the CD4+ and the CD8+ T cell compartment. Interestingly, despite expressing co‐inhibitory molecules, which are associated with T cell exhaustion in chronic settings, these T cells were more functional compared to activated T cells that were negative for co‐inhibitory molecules. However, T cells expressing high levels of PD‐1 and LAG‐3 also conferred suppressive capacity and thus resembled type I regulatory T cells. To our knowledge, this is the first description of malaria‐induced CD8+ T cells with suppressive capacity. Importantly, we found an induction of T cells with a similar co‐inhibitory rich phenotype in Plasmodium falciparum‐infected patients. In conclusion, we demonstrate that malaria‐induced T cells expressing co‐inhibitory molecules are not exhausted, but acquire additional suppressive capacity, which might represent an immune regulatory pathway to prevent further activation of T cells during acute malaria.
Generation and characterization of air micro‐bubbles in highly hydrophobic capillaries
Authors: Renard Charly , Leclercq Laurent , Cottet Hervé
Published: November 2021

The generation of air microbubbles in microfluidic systems or in capillaries could be of great interest for transportation (single cell analysis, organite transportation) or for liquid compartmentation. The physicochemical characterization of air bubbles and a better understanding of the process leading to bubble generation during electrophoresis is also interesting in a theoretical point of view. In this work, the generation of microbubbles on hydrophobic Glaco™ coated capillaries has been studied in water‐based electrolyte. Air bubbles were generated at the detection window and the required experimental parameters for microbubbles generation have been identified. Generated bubbles migrated against the electroosmotic flow, as would do strongly negatively charged solutes, under constant electric field. They have been characterized in terms of dimensions, electrophoretic mobility, and apparent charge.
Self‐Healing and Flexible Ionic Gel Polymer Electrolyte Based on Reversible Bond for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wan Long , Cao Xiaoyan , Xue Xiaoyuan , Tong Yongfen , Ci Suqing , Huang Hongbo , Zhou Dan
Published: November 2021

The low ionic conductivity, poor interface contact, and low safety of the electrolytes are the main problems in the practical application in flexible lithium metal batteries. A new type of chemical crosslinked ionic gel polymer electrolyte (IGPE) with good self‐healing ability and excellent electrochemical properties is designed based on polyoxyethylenebis(amine), and 1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxaldehyde in the presence of ionic liquid through a one‐step reaction. The interaction between ionic liquid and polymer with the ether oxygen atom of EO chains improves the stability of IGPE and the crystallinity decreased significantly due to the incorporation of ionic liquid. The IGPEs show good self‐healing, film flexibility, and high ionic conductivity even at −25 °C. They also possess high thermal stability, wide electrochemical stability window, and good interfacial compatibility. The Li/IGPE‐50/LiFeO4 battery with IGPE‐50 as an electrolyte is studied and the high discharge capacity of 154.8 mAh g−1 is obtained at 0.1 C with 99.6% of coulombic efficiency, and remains 132.8 mAh g−1 on the 50th cycle. Ionic liquid combined with polymers based on dynamic reversible bonds can optimize the electrochemical performance of IGPEs, and improve its safety and stability, which is very useful for flexible lithium metal batteries.
Multi‐objective optimization of main bearing assembly structure based on improved NSGA‐II
Authors: Zhao Xin , Su Tiexiong , Liu Xiaoyong , Zhang Xueqing
Published: November 2021

Multi‐objective optimization of the main bearing assembly structure entails a high computational cost; moreover, the experimental measurement of the main‐bearing‐hole out‐of‐roundness has the problem of poor accuracy and inadequate repeatability. To address these issues, an improved NSGA‐II algorithm based on the fixed‐sized candidate set adaptive random testing (FSCS‐ART) algorithm and an adaptive strategy is proposed, and a more accurate method for measuring out‐of‐roundness based on the compensation method is developed. Accordingly, a mathematical model and a parametric model are established for optimization. Finally, the optimal design scheme is obtained by solving with the improved NSGA‐II algorithm. The results show that the proposed out‐of‐roundness measurement method has a high accuracy, with <5% error. The improved NSGA‐II algorithm exhibits a better solution convergence compared with the original algorithm does. The optimized solution of the improved NSGA‐II algorithm has a higher fitness when the two algorithms evolve to the same generation in the late stage, and the distribution of the Pareto optimal of the improved algorithm solution is closer to the Pareto frontier. After optimization, the stresses at the danger areas of the engine block and bearing cap are reduced by 13.67% and 6.71%, respectively. The out‐of‐roundness of the main bearing hole is reduced by 14.13%, and the maximum contact pressure on the dangerous contact surface is reduced by 14.08%. This study makes a significant contribution to the design of internal combustion engines because it facilitates the development of high‐power diesel engines by optimizing the reliability of the main bearing assembly structure.
On accurate time integration for temperature evolutions in additive manufacturing
Authors: Kollmannsberger Stefan , Kopp Philipp
Published: November 2021

We investigate two numerical challenges in thermal finite element simulations of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) processes. First, we compare the behavior of first‐ and second‐order implicit time‐stepping schemes on a fixed domain. While both methods yield comparable accuracies in the pre‐asymptotic regime, the second‐order method eventually outperforms the first‐order method. However, the oscillations present in the pre‐asymptotic range of the second‐order method can render it less suitable for simulating LPBF processes. Then, we consider sudden domain extensions resulting from subsequently adding new layers of material with ambient temperature. We model this extension on the continuous level in an energy conservative manner. The discontinuities introduced here reduce the convergence order for both time‐stepping schemes to 0.75. First and second order accuracy could only be achieved by strongly grading the time‐steps towards the domain expansion.
SIRT1‐mediated deacetylation of FOXO3a transcription factor supports pro‐angiogenic activity of interferon‐deficient tumor‐associated neutrophils
Authors: Bordbari Sharareh , Mörchen Britta , Pylaeva Ekaterina , Siakaeva Elena , Spyra Ilona , Domnich Maksim , Droege Freya , Kanaan Oliver , Lang Karl Sebastian , Schadendorf Dirk , Lang Stephan , Helfrich Iris , Jablonska Jadwiga
Published: November 2021

Angiogenesis plays an important role during tumor growth and metastasis. We could previously show that Type I interferon (IFN)‐deficient tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) show strong pro‐angiogenic activity, and stimulate tumor angiogenesis and growth. However, the exact mechanism responsible for their pro‐angiogenic shift is not clear. Here, we set out to delineate the molecular mechanism and factors regulating pro‐angiogenic properties of neutrophils in the context of Type I IFN availability. We demonstrate that neutrophils from IFN‐deficient (Ifnar1−/−) mice efficiently release pro‐angiogenic factors, such as VEGF, MMP9 or BV8, and thus significantly support the vascular normalization of tumors by increasing the maturation of perivascular cells. Mechanistically, we could show here that the expression of pro‐angiogenic factors in neutrophils is controlled by the transcription factor forkhead box protein O3a (FOXO3a), which activity depends on its post‐translational modifications, such as deacetylation or phosphorylation. In TANs isolated from Ifnar1−/− mice, we observe significantly elevated SIRT1, resulting in SIRT1‐mediated deacetylation of FOXO3a, its nuclear retention and activation. Activated FOXO3a supports in turn the transcription of pro‐angiogenic genes in TANs. In the absence of SIRT1, or after its inhibition in neutrophils, elevated kinase MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT activity is observed, leading to FOXO3a phosphorylation, cytoplasmic transfer and inactivation. In summary, we have found that FOXO3a is a key transcription factor controlling the angiogenic switch of neutrophils. Post‐translational FOXO3a modifications regulate its transcriptional activity and, as a result, the expression of pro‐angiogenic factors supporting development of vascular network in growing tumors. Therefore, targeting FOXO3a activity could provide a novel strategy of antiangiogenic targeted therapy for cancer.
Transfer learning‐based platform for detecting multi‐classification retinal disorders using optical coherence tomography images
Authors: Saleh Neven , Abdel Wahed Manal , Salaheldin Ahmed M.
Published: November 2021

One of the primary concerns of computer‐aided diagnosis is the detection of retinal disorders. The study aims to categorize the patients into choroidal neovascularization, diabetic macular edema, drusen, and normal by using optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. For the first time, two novel transfer learning‐based techniques were used for retinal disorder classification: SqueezeNet and the Inception V3 Net. Two SqueezeNet scenarios were used to compare the performance of the original SqueezeNet and the improved one. A dataset of 11 200 OCT images was used for data partitioning of SqueezeNet and, meanwhile, 18 000 images for Inception V3 Net. The modified SqueezeNet achieved 98% accuracy, a 1.2% improvement over the original. The Inception V3 Net classifier improved its classification accuracy to 98.4%. When compared to other classifiers and a human expert, the transfer learning approach demonstrated its robustness in the challenge of retinal disorders classification with a large dataset.
Concentrated phases of an ionic surfactant (Aerosol OT) in polar solvents
Authors: Berrellez Daniel , Tánori Judith , Acedo‐Mendoza Alan German , Maldonado Amir
Published: November 2021

We have studied concentrated phases of Aerosol OT (AOT) in polar (water, ethylene glycol, formamide, N,N‐dimethylformamide) and apolar (isooctane) solvents. We investigated two surfactant volume fractions (φ = 0.2 and φ = 0.6) with small angle x‐ray scattering (SAXS), rheology and electrical conductivity experiments. AOT self‐assembles differently depending on solvent type and concentration. SAXS experiments show that the AOT/water system displays a lamellar phase. In the other cases, only formamide displays a lamellar phase for φ = 0.6. The other solvents (and formamide at φ = 0.2) promote the self‐assembly of AOT in other microstructures. The SAXS spectra display correlation peaks consistent with a disordered array of cylindrical aggregates. The microstructure of the AOT/isooctane system at φ = 0.2 is that of an arrangement of spherical aggregates. The results are explained in terms of surfactant packing models and solvent properties. For instance, the ability of ethylene glycol to form hydrogen bonds with AOT promotes the formation of cylindrical aggregates by increasing the area per surfactant polar head. As N,N‐dimethylformamide is slightly miscible in hydrocarbons it increases the volume of the surfactant tail promoting reverse structures.
Preparation, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Transparent Thin Carboxymethyl‐Chitosan/Oxidized Carboxymethyl Cellulose Films as New Wound Dressings
Authors: Jiang Zhiwen , Wang Yanting , Li Lulu , Hu Huiwen , Wang Shuo , Zou Mingyu , Liu Wanshun , Han Baoqin
Published: November 2021

Full thickness burns in which the damage penetrates deep into the skin layers and reaches underneath the muscle, compel the need for more effective cure. Herein, cross‐linked carboxymethyl‐chitosan (CM‐chitosan) films, prepared by Schiff base association with oxidized carboxymethyl cellulose (OCMC), are investigated regarding the wound healing capacity on full thickness burn injuries in vivo. Transparent thin CM‐chitosan/OCMC films are obtained with tensile strength reaching 6.11 MPa, elongation at break above 27%, and water absorption more than 800%, which operates in favor of absorbing excess exudate and monitoring the wound status. Furthermore, the nonadherent CM‐chitosan/OCMC films, with satisfactory biodegradability, cell, and tissue compatibility, are readily used to the wound sites and easily removed following therapy on scalded tissue so as to alleviate the suffering from burn. The films efficiently promote epithelial and dermal regeneration compared to the control, achieving 75.9% and 94.4% wound closure, respectively, after 14 and 27 days. More importantly, CM‐chitosan/OCMC films accelerate wound healing with natural mechanisms which include controlling inflammatory response, reducing apoptosis, promoting fibroblast cell proliferation, and collagen formation. In conclusion, the CM‐chitosan/OCMC films elevate the repair ratio of burn injuries and have great potential for facilitating the healing process on full‐thickness exuding wounds.
Aliasing‐free reduced field‐of‐view parallel imaging
Authors: Jia Sen , Qiu Zhilang , Zhang Lei , Wang Haifeng , Yang Gang , Liu Xin , Liang Dong , Zheng Hairong
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To reconstruct aliasing‐free full field‐of‐view (FOV) images for reduced FOV (rFOV) parallel imaging (PI) with Cartesian and Wave sampling, which suffers from aliasing artifacts using existing PI methods.

Theory and Methods

The sensitivity encoding method (SENSE) was extended to the Soft‐SENSE models supporting multiple‐set coil sensitivity maps (CSM) and point spread functions (PSF) for Cartesian and Wave sampled rFOV PI, respectively. The multiple‐set CSM and PSF were created from full FOV CSM and PSF according to the image folding process induced by rFOV sampling. The Soft‐SENSE reconstructions could be solved by the same algorithms for the conventional full FOV SENSE reconstruction.

Results

Soft‐SENSE using multiple‐set full FOV CSM and PSF successfully reconstruct aliasing‐free full FOV image from rFOV PI data with Cartesian and Wave sampling. The proposed rFOV PI enables flexible control of the aliasing and achieves comparable geometry factors as the standard full FOV PI with the same net acceleration factor. Reduced FOV PI improves the computational efficiency of iterative compressed sensing (CS) and PI reconstruction, especially for high‐resolution volumetric imaging, thanks to the reduced fast Fourier transform (FFT) size. Moreover, rFOV PI reconstruction provides a potential alternative to the phase oversampling for the FOV aliasing problem.

Conclusion

The proposed Soft‐SENSE using full FOV CSM and PSF could reconstruct aliasing‐free full FOV image for rFOV PI, and make it a viable solution enabling more flexible PI acceleration and effectively improving the computational efficiency of iterative CSPI reconstruction.
Simultaneous T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted 3D MRI using RF phase‐modulated gradient echo imaging
Authors: Tamada Daiki , Field Aaron S. , Reeder Scott B.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted (T1w and T2w) imaging are essential sequences in routine clinical practice to detect and characterize a wide variety of pathologies. Many approaches have been proposed to obtain T1w and T2w contrast, although many challenges still remain, including long acquisition time and limitations that favor 2D imaging. In this study, we propose a novel method for simultaneous T1w and T2w imaging using RF phase‐modulated 3D gradient‐echo imaging.

Theory

Configuration theory is used to derive closed‐form equations for the steady state of RF phase‐modulated gradient‐echo signal. These equations suggest the use of small RF phase increments to provide orthogonal signal contrast with T2w and T1w in the real and imaginary components, respectively. Background phase can be removed using a two‐pass acquisition with opposite RF phase increments.

Methods

Simulation and phantom experiments were performed to validate our proposed method. Volunteer images of the brain and knee were acquired to demonstrate the clinical feasibility. The proposed method was compared with T1w and T2w fast spin‐echo imaging.

Results

The relative signal intensity of images acquired using the proposed method agreed closely with simulations and fast spin‐echo imaging in phantoms. Images from volunteer imaging showed very similar contrast compared to conventional fast spin‐echo imaging.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency phase‐modulated gradient‐echo with small RF phase increments is an alternative method that provides simultaneous T1w and T2w contrast in short scan times with 3D volumetric coverage.
Assessment of the effect of colored beverage on gastric returns after gastric tube replacement to enhance placement verification
Authors: McGinnis Carol , Marroquin Sara , Reed Valerie
Published: November 2021

Background

Verification of appropriate placement of newly replaced gastrostomy tubes is essential prior to use to avoid potentially serious adverse events.

Problem

A lack of standardized guidance regarding effective and practical means to verify placement exists. Aspiration or drainage of gastric‐like contents is one mean suggested to help determine placement, yet when returns are minimal, this becomes challenging.

Materials, Method, Intervention

Oral ingestion or the instillation of a colored beverage prior to tube replacement was used in a midwestern healthcare clinical setting to enhance returns in both volume and color via the newly replaced gastrostomy tube. A retrospective review of this practice was conducted, which included 176 gastric tube replacements over 4 years.

Results

A significant increase in volume of returns via the newly replaced tube was noted (P < .001) and a strong correlation of color to the ingested or consumed beverage was found with 95% of returns reflecting color tinting of the beverage or in many cases, strong color change to that of the beverage color.

Conclusion

Presented is a simple, cost‐effective method that has shown to be clinically useful in assessing placement of newly replaced gastrostomy tubes that may be useful in other practices and settings.