bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NaSICON: A promising solid electrolyte for solid‐state sodium batteries
Authors: Li Chi , Li Rui , Liu Kaining , Si Rui , Zhang Zhizhen , Hu Yong‐Sheng
Published: July 2022

A surge of interest has been brought to all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) as they show great prospects for enabling higher energy density and improved safety compared to conventional liquid batteries. Na Super Ionic CONductors (NaSICONs) proposed by Goodenough and Hong in 1976 are the most promising materials class for Na‐based ASSBs owing to their excellent ion conductivity (>1 mS cm−1), high thermal and chemical/electrochemical stability, as well as good chemical/electrochemical compatibility with electrode materials. The major challenge facing NaSICON‐type electrolytes is the generally high interfacial resistance and thus sluggish charge transfer kinetics across the NaSICON/cathode interface. Great endeavors in the past few years have led to progress in the improvement of the ion‐conducting property, and a dramatic decrease in the NaSICON/electrode interface resistance. Excellent cycling performance and rate capability have been achieved through interface engineering. In this review article, we summarize the state‐of‐the‐art findings for various derivatives of NaSICON structured solid electrolytes, with the aim of providing a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanism for the improvement of ion conductivity, and the intrinsic reasons for the enhanced interface charge transfer kinetics. These strategies can be readily extended to other solid electrolytes. We hope this review will inspire more work on NaSICON‐type solid electrolytes and solid‐state batteries.
Versatile aza‐BODIPY‐based low‐bandgap conjugated small molecule for light harvesting and near‐infrared photodetection
Authors: Bhat Gurudutt , Kielar Marcin , Rao Haixia , Gholami Mahnaz D. , Mathers Isabel , Larin Astrid C. R. , Flanagan Thomas , Erdenebileg Enkhtur , Bruno Annalisa , Pannu Amandeep Singh , Fairfull‐Smith Kathryn E. , Izake Emad L. , Sah Pankaj , Lam Yeng Ming , Pandey Ajay K. , Sonar Prashant
Published: July 2022

The versatile nature of organic conjugated materials renders their flawless integration into a diverse family of optoelectronic devices with light‐harvesting, photodetection, or light‐emitting capabilities. Classes of materials that offer the possibilities of two or more distinct optoelectronic functions are particularly attractive as they enable smart applications while providing the benefits of the ease of fabrication using low‐cost processes. Here, we develop a novel, multi‐purpose conjugated small molecule by combining boron‐azadipyrromethene (aza‐BODIPY) as electron acceptor with triphenylamine (TPA) as end‐capping donor units. The implemented donor–acceptor–donor (D–A–D) configuration, in the form of TPA‐azaBODIPY‐TPA, preserves ideal charge transfer characteristics with appropriate excitation energy levels, with the additional ability to be used as either a charge transporting interlayer or light‐sensing semiconducting layer in optoelectronic devices. To demonstrate its versatility, we first show that TPA‐azaBODIPY‐TPA can act as an excellent hole transport layer in methylammonium lead triiodide (MAPbI3)‐based perovskite solar cells with measured power conversion efficiencies exceeding 17%, outperforming control solar cells with PEDOT:PSS by nearly 60%. Furthermore, the optical bandgap of 1.49 eV is shown to provide significant photodetection in the wavelength range of up to 800 nm where TPA‐azaBODIPY‐TPA functions as donor in near‐infrared organic photodetectors (OPDs) composed of fullerene derivatives. Overall, the established versatility of TPA‐azaBODIPY‐TPA, combined with its robust thermal stability as well as excellent solubility and processability, provides a new guide for developing highly efficient multi‐purpose electronic materials for the next‐generation of smart optoelectronic devices.

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Drug‐Induced Gynecomastia
Authors: Thompson Dennis F. , Carter Jayne Reading
Published: July 2022

Gynecomastia is a relatively common physical finding in men. A wide variety of drugs have been implicated in its cause. Sufficient evidence in the literature suggests that calcium‐channel blockers, cancer chemotherapeutic agents, and histamine2‐receptor blockers may play a role in the disorder. Evidence for digitalis glycosides and neuroleptic agents is insufficient. Ketoconazole and spironolactone can also produce gynecomastia, and data for marijuana are contradictory. Large numbers of drugs have only case reports of temporal association with the disorder.
Lack of Significant Morphological Differences Between Human X and Y Spermatozoa and Their Precursor Cells (Spermatids) Exposed to Different Prehybridization Treatments
Authors: HOSSAIN AMJAD M. , BARIK SAILEN , KULKARNI PANDURANG M.
Published: July 2022

ABSTRACT: Human X and Y spermatozoa were previously compared by several nonmolecular techniques. Recent studies show that in many of the previous investigations, the methods used to identify the spermatozoa were nonspecific and thus produced contradictory findings. In the present study, the comparison of the 2 germ cell types, X and Y, were performed following fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), which is the most reliable genotyping technique currently available. The FISH technique was performed under 3 different treatments: permeabilization with liquid N2, fixation with Carnoy's, and chromatin decondensation with lithium di‐iodosalicylate. Mature and immature germ cells (spermatozoa and spermatids) were compared. Lithium showed higher hybridization efficiency, while liquid N2 and Carnoy's fixative maintained better morphological integrity of cells with lower hybridization. The sperm exhibiting hybridization signals were not different in any of the morphometric or qualitative comparisons from those that did not exhibit signals. No significant deviation of the sex ratio from 1:1 was seen in either the mature or immature germ cell population. The spatial distribution of X and Y chromosome‐specific signals in the sperm head were identical. The hybridization treatments did not have any preferential effect on the cells of specific genotype (X or Y). Neither head parameters (length, HL; width, HW; area, HA) nor tail length (TL) significantly differed between X and Y populations of spermatozoa under any of the treatments. Similarly, the haploid, X‐specific round cells did not differ from Y‐specific ones by their size (diameter) and shape. These results indicate that neither mature sperm nor their precursors possess significant morphological differences between X and Y genotypes.
Higher Testosterone Dose Impairs Sperm Suppression Induced by a Combined Androgen‐Progestin Regimen
Authors: MERIGGIOLA M. CRISTINA , COSTANTINO ANTONIETTA , BREMNER WILLIAM J. , MORSELLI‐LABATE ANTONIO M.
Published: July 2022

In this study we compared the effects of high‐dose and low‐dose testosterone enanthate (TE) administered with the same dose of cyproterone acetate (CPA). Eighteen men aged 21–45 were treated with CPA 5 mg/day and with TE 100 mg/week (n = 9; CPA‐5–100) or TE 200 mg/week (n = 9; CPA‐5–200) for 16 weeks. Semen analyses were performed every 2 weeks; physical examination and chemistry, hematology, gonadotropin, and testosterone measurements were performed every 4 weeks. At week 16 of treatment, sperm counts were significantly more suppressed in the CPA‐5–100 group than in the CPA‐5–200 group. Sperm counts returned to baseline in all subjects after hormone administration ceased. No difference in gonadotropin levels was found at any time between the 2 groups. During the treatment phase, testosterone levels were significantly higher in the CPA‐5–200 group than in the CPA‐5–100 group. The present study confirms that CPA/TE administration induces profound sperm suppression. An increase in the dose of androgen resulted in less profound sperm suppression despite no difference in gonadotropin suppression. These data suggest that high testosterone levels can maintain sperm production in men.
Realgar‐induced nephrotoxicity via ferroptosis in mice
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Cao Shuai , Zhou Heng , Li Limin , Hu Qing , Mao Xiuhong , Ji Shen
Published: July 2022

Ferroptosis is a novel form of iron‐dependent cell death that is involved in arsenic‐induced toxicity. Realgar is an arsenic‐containing Chinese medicine, which can result in nephrotoxicity because of long‐term exposure. However, it remains scientifically unknown whether Realgar is an inducer of ferroptosis in the kidney. This study investigated the role of ferroptosis in Realgar‐induced kidney toxicity in mice. ICR mice were exposed to Realgar for 28 days, and HK2 cells were exposed to Realgar in the presence or absence of treatment with ferrostatin‐1, a ferroptosis inhibitor. The ferroptosis‐related indicators were further evaluated. Realgar can cause nephrotoxicity in mice by continuous gavage for 28 days, accompanied by an increase in iron accumulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The reduced expression of Slc7A11 and Gpx4 further confirmed the ferroptosis mediated by Realgar. Meanwhile, Realgar disrupted the antioxidant system as evidenced by the formation of ROS leading to the inactivation of antioxidant enzymes. Realgar caused ferroptosis in a dose‐dependent manner, which was significantly reduced by ferrostatin‐1 in HK2 cells. This study revealed that Realgar‐induced ferroptosis triggered nephrotoxicity in mice and provided new clues to elucidate the mechanism of Realgar‐induced nephrotoxicity.
A review on preparation, surface enhancement and adsorption mechanism of biochar‐supported nano zero‐valent iron adsorbent for hazardous heavy metals
Authors: Awang Nor Asikin , Wan Salleh Wan Norharyati , Aziz Farhana , Yusof Norhaniza , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: July 2022

Heavy metal pollution of water is a global concern, which adversely affects human health because of its resistance to biodegradation and thus its transmission in the food chain via bioaccumulation. Nano zerovalent iron (nZVI) is very effective for the removal of heavy metals and is cost effective in terms of production. However, the main problems of nZVI are agglomeration and ease of oxidation. Several stabilization materials have been implemented to limit the aggregation of nZVI, such as silica, activated carbon and biochar. In comparison, as a support material, biochar possesses a large surface area, high stability and strong adsorption capacity, as well as being obtainable from various types of materials. Thus, this work aims to establish the opportunities available on the use of biochar‐supported nZVI in utilizing its ability to stabilize and immobilize the nZVI. This review also reports the preparation, modification and surface enhancement of biochar, nZVI and biochar‐nZVI for practical use as adsorbents. This review shows that modifications of the nZVI surface can help in their stabilization and reduction of aggregation. Additionally, this review is able to increase one's understanding of heavy metal sorption behavior by biochar‐supported nZVI as it is the important as heavy metal sorption is driven based on biochar‐nZVI type and heavy metal species which involve numerous mechanisms, including physical binding, complexation, ion exchange, surface precipitation and electrostatic interactions. Furthermore, this research reviews the adsorption parameters, including the crucial adsorption mechanism of heavy metals onto biochar‐nZVI; the reusability of the biochar‐nZVI is also discussed in this work. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Quantification of geogenic carbon in anthropogenic alluvial coal soils of the Susquehanna River
Authors: Williams Elizabeth K. , Ricker Matthew C. , Plante Alain F.
Published: July 2022

Alluvial riparian soils act as a filtration system, improving the environmental quality of downstream soils and waters. In areas affected by coal mining, alluvial soils also serve as a modern “sink” of fossil carbon (C). To date, little research has been done on ecosystem services provided by alluvial landscapes (i.e., river islands and tributary deltas) in the retention of coal in coal‐mining regions. The objective of this study was to distinguish between and quantify geogenic and neogenetic C in alluvial soils of the North Branch of the Susquehanna River (NBSR). To investigate this, we compared five thermal analysis methods to quantify geogenic (coal) C in soils. Our results indicate that multivariate curve resolution of ramped thermal combustion data provided the most accurate estimate of coal content in soils. Our analysis found that NBSR alluvial soils have accumulated ∼375 Gg of anthropogenic, geogenic C (upper 1 m). In these soils, an average of ∼11% of soil mass is attributable to coal, yet ∼73% of the total soil C is attributable to geogenic C. These soil organic C stocks are substantially greater than locally mapped riparian soils unaffected by coal mining and are greater than regional organic soils (Histosols). Quantification of microbial decomposition of coal in alluvial soils and vulnerability to extreme flood events (potential remobilization) requires further investigation and will be important in determining the fate of this C sink.
Longitudinal follow‐up of HPV16 sequence after cervical infection: Low intrahost variation and no correlation with clinical evolution
Authors: Debernardi Alice , Valot Benoit , Almarcha Julien , Guenat David , Hocquet Didier , Algros Marie‐Paule , Riethmuller Didier , Ramanah Rajeev , Mougin Christiane , Prétet Jean‐Luc , Lepiller Quentin
Published: July 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 exhibits different variants that may differ in their carcinogenic risk. To identify some high‐risk variants, we sequenced and compared HPV16 whole genomes obtained from a longitudinal cohort of 34 HPV16‐infected women who had either spontaneously cleared their infection (clearance group or “C”), or developed cervical high‐grade lesions following a viral persistence (group persistence or “P”). Phylogenetic analysis of paired samples obtained at the beginning (C0 or P0) and at the end (C2 or P2) of the follow‐up (median intervals between C0–C2 and between P0–P2 were 16 and 36.5 months, respectively) revealed a low genetic variability within the host compared to the genetic interhost diversity. By comparing our HPV16 sequences to a reference sequence, we observed 301 different substitutions, more often transitions (60.9%) than transversions (39.1%), that occurred throughout the viral genome, but with a low frequency in E6 and E7 oncogenes (10 and 9 substitutions), suggesting a high conservation of these genes. Deletions and insertions were mostly observed in intergenic regions of the virus. The only significant substitution found between the subgroups C2 and P2 was observed in the L2 gene (L330F), with an unclear biological relevance. Our results suggest a low longitudinal intrahost evolution of HPV16 sequences and no correlation between genetic variations and clinical evolution.
The variant‐specific burden of SARS‐CoV‐2 in Michigan: March 2020 through November 2021
Authors: Petrie Joshua G. , Eisenberg Marisa C. , Lauring Adam S. , Gilbert Julie , Harrison Samantha M. , DeJonge Peter M. , Martin Emily T.
Published: July 2022

Accurate estimates of the total burden of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) are needed to inform policy, planning, and response. We sought to quantify SARS‐CoV‐2 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths by age in Michigan. Coronavirus disease 2019 cases reported to the Michigan Disease Surveillance System were multiplied by age and time‐specific adjustment factors to correct for under‐detection. Adjustment factors were estimated in a model fit to incidence data and seroprevalence estimates. Age‐specific incidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 hospitalization, death, vaccination, and variant proportions were estimated from publicly available data. We estimated substantial under‐detection of infection that varied by age and time. Accounting for under‐detection, we estimate the cumulative incidence of infection in Michigan reached 75% by mid‐November 2021, and over 87% of Michigan residents were estimated to have had ≥1 vaccination dose and/or previous infection. Comparing pandemic waves, the relative burden among children increased over time. In general, the proportion of cases who were hospitalized or who died decreased over time. Our results highlight the ongoing risk of periods of high SARS‐CoV‐2 incidence despite widespread prior infection and vaccination. This underscores the need for long‐term planning for surveillance, vaccination, and other mitigation measures amidst continued response to the acute pandemic.
Reconstruction of oral cavity defects using myogenous‐only scapular tip free‐flaps
Authors: Barton Blair M. , Pappa Andrew K. , Blumberg Jeffrey , Patel Samip
Published: July 2022

Background

Oral cavity reconstruction is very challenging anatomical subsite to reconstruct. Large defects often require free tissue reconstruction to provide the best chance of form and function. Additionally, free tissue reconstruction aids to prevent fistula formation. We aimed to determine outcomes of oral cavity defect reconstruction using scapular tip free flaps with a myogenous intraoral component.

Methods

All patients with a mandibular or maxillary bony defect that included a disruption of the intraoral mucosa component between 07/1/14 and 07/31/17. Patients were reconstructed with a scapular tip free flap, which included a muscular component that was used to recreate the oral mucosa. The primary study outcomes were flap success rates, development of orocutaneous or oronasal fistula, rate of resuming oral diet as well as the occurrence of medical and surgical complications in the first month following surgery. The tested hypothesis was formulated before data collection began.

Results

Twenty‐five patients were identified by the study criteria. There was one (4%) flap that failed, while orocutaneous fistula occurred in two patients (8%). Prior history of osteoradionecrosis was a statistically significant predictor of overall complication (p < .05).

Conclusions

Intraoral myogenous reconstruction allows for re‐mucosalization of the oral cavity defect and is associated with high viability and low‐complication rates. In patients with amenable oral mucosal defects, a myogenous scapular tip free flap is a suitable reconstructive option.
On interpolation of weakly compact bilinear operators
Authors: Cobos Fernando , Fernández‐Cabrera Luz M. , Martínez Antón
Published: July 2022

We study the interpolation properties of weakly compact bilinear operators by the real method and also by the complex method. We also study the factorization property of weakly compact bilinear operators through reflexive Banach spaces.
2D FEM simulation and experimental verification of Al 7075‐T6 during turning process
Authors: Mohan Kumar A. , Rajasekar R. , Parameshwaran R.
Published: July 2022

In this work, temperature distribution, effective stress and strain distribution in Al 7075‐T6 material and plastic flow of materials during turning process have been studied using Deform 3D v11.0 software. The four different points (P1, P2, P3, and P4) were chosen at the different locations in the cylindrical workpiece and the graph has been plotted with different parameters namely, temperature distribution, effective stress and strain. For temperature distribution, a good agreement has been found between simulation and experimental results at P4. The following results obtained from the simulation: In tertiary zone, the maximum temperature of specimen reaches upto 142 °C at points P1 due to friction between the tool rack face and the lower surface of chip. Maximum effective stress value reaches upto 650 MPa and 704 MPa at P1 and P4 respectively in the first sticking zone due to the combined effect of high normal force by tool edge and ploughing force. The effective strain value at P1 and P4 obtained, strain at P4 reaches maximum compare to P1 due to friction and unven temperature distribution. Additionally, chip analysis has been performed with microscopic image.
Metallic surface architectures realized through plastically deformed micro‐volumes
Authors: Raducanu D. , Cojocaru V.D. , Raducanu V.A. , Cojocaru M.E. , Nocivin A. , Irimescu R.E. , Galbinasu B.M.
Published: July 2022

For developing performing medical devices, the biomechanical adaptation plays a key role for both, the bulk material (at macro scale) and surfaces (at micro/nano scale). As concerning the interaction of living cells with artificial surfaces, the cellular mechano‐sensitivity has direct effects on tissue structure and functions. In this work, surfaces architectures, obtained by self‐nano‐crystallization, were realized on a gum‐alloy as substrate (titanium‐niobium‐zirconium‐iron‐oxygen), using silicone masks with micrometric patterns/perforations, on which a near‐surface‐severe‐plastic‐deformation process was applied. For finding 3D suitable geometries of the perforations and their distribution on the masks, generative design algorithms were developed using dedicated software tools. The masks were obtained by 3D printing using the fused filament fabrication method. Multidirectional repeated mechanical impacts on the sample surface with high velocity balls at high strain rates were applied. Deeper compressive residual stresses are generated, creating a superficial self‐nano‐crystallized structure on un‐covered areas, due to small volume‐multidirectional local plastic deformation. The applied parameters have a direct effect on local micro‐topography and microstructure evolution.
Identification of source terms in wave equation with dynamic boundary conditions
Authors: Chorfi Salah‐Eddine , El Guermai Ghita , Maniar Lahcen , Zouhair Walid
Published: July 2022

This paper studies an inverse hyperbolic problem for the wave equation with dynamic boundary conditions. It consists of determining some forcing terms from the final overdetermination of the displacement. First, the Fréchet differentiability of the Tikhonov functional is studied, and a gradient formula is obtained via the solution of an associated adjoint problem. Then, the Lipschitz continuity of the gradient is proved. Furthermore, the existence and the uniqueness for the minimization problem are discussed. Finally, some numerical experiments for the reconstruction of an internal wave force are implemented via a conjugate gradient algorithm.
RNA‐sequencing reveals genes linked with oocyte developmental potential in bovine cumulus cells
Authors: Martínez‐Moro Álvaro , González‐Brusi Leopoldo , Lamas‐Toranzo Ismael , O'Callaghan Elena , Esteve‐Codina Anna , Lonergan Pat , Bermejo‐Álvarez Pablo
Published: July 2022

Cumulus cells provide an interesting biological material to perform analyses to understand the molecular clues determining oocyte competence. The objective of this study was to analyze the transcriptional differences between cumulus cells from oocytes exhibiting different developmental potentials following individual in vitro embryo production by RNA‐seq. Cumulus cells were allocated into three groups according to the developmental potential of the oocyte following fertilization: (1) oocytes developing to blastocysts (Bl+), (2) oocytes cleaving but arresting development before the blastocyst stage (Bl−), and (3) oocytes not cleaving (Cl−). RNAseq was performed on 4 (Cl−) or 5 samples (Bl+ and Bl−) of cumulus cells pooled from 10 cumulus‐oocyte complexes per group. A total of 49, 50, and 18 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in the comparisons Bl+ versus Bl−, Bl+ versus Cl− and Bl‐ versus Cl−, respectively, showing a fold change greater than 1.5 at an adjusted p value <0.05. Focussing on DEGs in cumulus cells from Bl+ group, 10 DEGs were common to both comparisons (10/49 from Bl+ vs. Bl−, 10/50 from Bl+ vs. Cl−). These DEGs correspond to 6 upregulated genes (HBE1, ITGA1, PAPPA, AKAP12, ITGA5, and SLC1A4), and 4 downregulated genes (GSTA1, PSMB8, FMOD, and SFRP4) in Bl+ compared to the other groups, from which 7 were validated by quantitative PCR (HBE1, ITGA1, PAPPA, AKAP12, ITGA5, PSMB8 and SFRP4). These genes are involved in critical biological functions such as integrin‐mediated cell adhesion, oxygen availability, IGF and Wnt signaling or PKA pathway, highlighting specific biological processes altered in incompetent in vitro maturation oocytes.
Long‐term treatment effects of inotersen on health‐related quality of life in patients with hATTR amyloidosis with polyneuropathy: Analysis of the open‐label extension of the NEURO‐TTR trial
Authors: Karam Chafic , Brown Duncan , Yang Min , Done Nicolae , Zhu Jing Jing , Greatsinger Alexandra , Bozas Ana , Vera‐Llonch Montserrat , Signorovitch James
Published: July 2022

Introduction/Aims

Hereditary transthyretin‐mediated amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (hATTR‐PN) progressively affects patients' functionality and compromises health‐related quality of life (HRQL). The aim of this study was to quantify the projected long‐term treatment effects of inotersen vs placebo on HRQL measures.

Methods

The inotersen phase 2/3 randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial NEURO‐TTR (NCT01737398, 65 weeks) and its subsequent open‐label extension (OLE; NCT02175004, 104 weeks) included 172 (112 inotersen and 60 placebo) patients. Placebo double‐blind period and overall inotersen‐inotersen (double‐blind/OLE) treatment period (170 weeks) data were used to extrapolate the long‐term placebo‐placebo effect using mixed‐effects models with repeated measures. Changes from baseline in the Norfolk Quality of Life‐Diabetic Neuropathy (QoL‐DN) and 36‐Item Short Form Health Survey version 2 (SF‐36v2) in hATTR‐PN were estimated. Differences in changes were compared between the inotersen‐inotersen and extrapolated placebo‐placebo arms.

Results

Inotersen‐inotersen patients maintained their HRQL with an observed change ranging from 10.3% improvement (Norfolk QoL‐DN item “Pain kept you awake at night”) to 11.6% deterioration (SF‐36v2 Activities of Daily Living subdomain). The extrapolated placebo‐placebo results suggest greater deterioration over time compared with inotersen‐inotersen treatment on Norfolk QoL‐DN total score (23.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.9‐38.3; P < .01), Activities of Daily Living (4.6; 95% CI, 2.0‐7.3; P < .001), and “Pain kept you awake at night” (1.2; 95% CI, 0.4‐1.9; P < .01). Similarly, greater deterioration was expected for the SF‐36v2 Physical Component Summary (8.0; 95% CI, 3.2‐12.8, P < .01), Bodily Pain (7.8; 95% CI, 2.0‐13.5; P < .01), and Physical Functioning (10.6; 95% CI, 5.5‐15.6; P < .0001).

Discussion

Long‐term (>3 years) inotersen treatment was associated with slowing and, in some domains, halting of deterioration in key HRQL outcome measures, particularly physical functioning and pain.
Cystatin C‐based eGFR predicts cardiovascular disease in patients with overweight/obesity and hyperglycemia
Authors: Suzuki Keita , Tsujiguchi Hiromasa , Hara Akinori , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Kotani Kazuhiko , Noda Mitsuhiko , Yamakage Hajime , Satoh‐Asahara Noriko , Takamura Toshinari
Published: July 2022

Background

Although many clinical parameters have been identified as predictors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) development in the general population, the accurate predictor for CVD in patients with obesity is still unknown.

Objective

The study aimed to explore an additional risk factor and predictor for CVD in patients with overweight/obesity considering the interaction of obesity‐related pathophysiology.

Methods

The Japan Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome study, a multicenter prospective study, enrolled 787 outpatients, of which 318 eligible patients were analyzed. Patients with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels ≥6.11 and < 6.11 mmol/L were considered to have high FPG (HFPG) and normal FPG (NFPG), respectively. Thirty‐six patients who developed CVD during the 5 years follow‐up were assigned to the CVD group.

Results

Cox's proportional hazards model revealed no significant association between CVD and cystatin C‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcys) or creatinine‐based eGFR (eGFRcr) in the NFPG group. In the HFPG group, lower eGFRcys, but not eGFRcr, was significantly associated with CVD development. A generalized linear mixed model demonstrated greater reduction in eGFRcys levels over time with HFPG than with NFPG. Although the CVD group showed gradual reduction in eGFRcys levels, the non‐CVD group—matched using propensity scores—did not show a decline in eGFRcys levels.

Conclusions

Lower eGFRcys levels may be more accurate than eGFRcr in predicting CVD development in patients with overweight/obesity and hyperglycemia. Furthermore, eGFRcys reduction over time is associated with CVD development.

Clinical Trial Registry Number

UMIN000000559
Thermoplastic vulcanizates dynamically cross‐linked by a tailored small molecule
Authors: Liu Wei , Ding Jianping , Chen Yukun
Published: July 2022

Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) with more features and functions are able to find broader applications, which is increasingly desired in our daily lives. However, great challenges were facing to develop novel TPVs with integrated properties such as reinforcement, recycling, and shape memory. Herein, we report a simple and effective route to prepare mechanically robust, recyclable and shape memory‐epoxidized natural rubber (ENR)/polylactic acid (PLA) TPVs by employing a tailored cross‐linker (FDP) containing triple dynamic covalent bonds instead of conventional cross‐linkers. The ENR phase in ENR/PLA TPVs evolved into a regular continuous phase and PLA was grafted onto ENR chain segments through FDP. The TPVs exhibited a tensile behavior of classical elastomers rather than that of plastics, with a tensile strength of 7.8 MPa and elongation at break of 174%, increased by 1.5 times and 2.9 times, respectively as compared to the traditional TPVs vulcanized by peroxide. The topology rearrangement of the cross‐linked ENR networks in the TPVs can be accomplished at high temperatures. Furthermore, its regular phase structure also bestowed an excellent shape memory ability on the TPVs. This work is promising to provide a new design idea for the development of high‐performance TPVs using readily available raw materials.
Modeling and influencing factor analysis for the temperature and damage dependent tensile strength of fiber/polymer composites
Authors: Li Ying , Li Weiguo , Zhang Xiaoyong , Shao Jiaxing , Deng Yong
Published: July 2022

With the rapid development of aerospace technology, the application of fiber/polymer composites in extreme environments especially at high temperature gets more and more extensive, the tensile properties of fiber/polymer composites in different temperatures environment have become a critical issue of concern. In this work, a temperature and damage dependent tensile strength (TDDTS) model for fiber/polymer composites was presented based on the force‐heat equivalence energy density principle and the damage failure analysis. The TDDTS model considers the combined effects of temperature, the evolution of constituents' properties and damage with temperature. Meanwhile, the TDDTS model has advantages from the aspects of prediction accuracy and convenience by comparison with our previous model and the Curtin's model. Further on, the influencing factors analysis of fiber/polymer composites concerning the tensile properties and damage evolution with temperature was conducted. This study offers a reliable model for predicting the TDDTS of fiber/polymer composites, and provides important insight for the strength degradation mechanism and the damage evolution.
Prenatal diagnosis of Coffin‐Siris syndrome: What are the fetal features?
Authors: Yu Qiu‐Xia , Jing Xiang‐Yi , Lin Xiao‐Mei , Zhen Li , Li Dong‐Zhi
Published: July 2022

Objective

To present both our center's and previously reported experience of prenatal diagnosis of Coffin‐Siris syndrome (CSS) with regard to the laboratory testing and fetal features of this syndrome.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of eight pregnancies with fetal CSS identified by prenatal or postnatal genetic testing. Clinical and laboratory data were collected and reviewed for these cases, including maternal demographics, prenatal sonographic findings, chromosomal microarray and exome sequencing (ES) results, and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

A total of eight cases of fetal CSS based on molecular testing were detected. Two cases presented with an increased nuchal translucency (NT) in the first trimester. The remaining six were identified at the second trimester scan. Agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) was the most common sonographic finding, accounting for 5/7 (71.4%) cases in which a second trimester sonogram was performed: four had ACC as an isolated finding, and one had additional features of cerebellar hypoplasia and left congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

Conclusion

CSS should be included in the differential diagnosis when ACC is found by prenatal ultrasound. Both chromosomal microarray and ES should be options when counseling patients with a structurally anomalous fetus.
Network‐related teaching and changes in classroom seating
Authors: Steggerda Jake C. , Gregus Samantha J. , Craig James T. , McMillan Hali , Cavell Timothy A.
Published: July 2022

The extent to which teachers make changes in classroom seating reflects, in part, the degree to which they value promoting positive peer relationships in the classroom. We assessed the frequency with which teachers made both minor (i.e., involving only 2–3 students) and major (involving half or more students in the class) changes in classroom seating. We tested whether the frequency of seating changes was linked to teachers' beliefs about promoting positive peer relationships, their attunement to child‐ or peer‐reports of peer victimization, and their concern about bullying at the school. Participants were 37 fourth‐grade teachers and their students (N = 677). The frequency of major seating changes was negatively associated with teachers' peer‐focused classroom seating (PFCS) beliefs and to their attunement to student peer victimization. Minor seating changes were positively associated with PFCS beliefs for teachers with low or average attunement to peer victimization; however, teachers highly attuned to peer victimization made fewer minor seating changes regardless of their PFCS beliefs. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Population pharmacokinetic of paracetamol and atorvastatin with co‐administration of semaglutide
Authors: Langeskov Emilie K. , Kristensen Kim
Published: July 2022

Semaglutide is a glucagon‐like‐peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) analogue marketed for once‐weekly subcutaneous administration for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Like other long‐acting GLP‐1 analogues, semaglutide reduces gastric emptying and, potentially, alters the rate of absorption of orally co‐administered drugs. The objective of the current analysis was to evaluate the effects on the gastric emptying rate caused by semaglutide on pharmacokinetic model parameters of paracetamol and atorvastatin in healthy subjects. Non‐linear mixed effect modeling was used to estimate population pharmacokinetic model parameters of paracetamol and atorvastatin after single doses with or without semaglutide. The absorption rate (ka) of paracetamol decreased by 53% when co‐administered with semaglutide. For atorvastatin, ka and transit compartment rate (ktr) decreased by 72% and 91%, respectively. Thus, gastric emptying, measured as T50, i.e., drug disappearance from the absorption compartments, showed an additional 5‐min delay for paracetamol and a 67‐min delay for atorvastatin when co‐administered with semaglutide. Semaglutide affected pharmacokinetic model parameters of paracetamol and atorvastatin, and minor quantitative differences in gastric emptying between placebo vs. semaglutide administration were observed. However, these effects of semaglutide were considered not to be of clinical relevance.
Landscape and progress of global peptide drugs in obstetrics and gynaecology
Authors: Tang Mi , Cai Jiang‐hui , Luo Er‐dan , Diao Hao‐yang , Huang Yan , Xiong Li‐ling , Xing Sha Sha , Yang Xiao
Published: July 2022

Peptides have gained popularity in the global market during recent years and have been placed between small molecule drugs and biologics. However, little is known about the comprehensive landscape of peptide drugs in obstetrics and gynaecology. Herein, we analysed new peptide drug‐related clinical trials in obstetrics and gynaecology registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. The number and percentage were used for statistical analysis, and a time trend analysis was conducted by calculating the annual growth rate. We aimed to provide the first overview of the changing landscape and status of global peptide drugs in this prospective field, including exploring drug targets, the cutting‐edge oncotherapy of peptide vaccines and peptide–drug conjugates, and unsolved challenges with oral administration.
Pharmacology of α‐spinasterol, a phytosterol with nutraceutical values: A review
Authors: Majeed Muhammed , Ahmad Furkan , Mundkur Lakshmi , Appian Subramoniam
Published: July 2022

α‐Spinasterol is a phytosterol found in various edible and non‐edible plant sources. The edible plant materials containing α‐spinasterol include spinach leaves, cucumber fruits, seeds of pumpkin and watermelon, argan seed oil, cactus pear seed oil and Amaranthus sp. It is a bioavailable nutraceutical, and it can cross the blood–brain barrier. It possesses several important pharmacological properties such as anti‐diabetes mellitus, antiinflammation, hypolipidemic, antiulcer, neuroprotection, anti‐pain and antitumour activities. For this review, literature search was made focusing on the pharmacological properties of α‐spinasterol using PubMed and Google Scholar data bases. Recent studies show the promising antidiabetic properties of α‐spinasterol. Its anti‐diabetic mechanisms include enhancement of insulin secretion, reduction in insulin resistance, anti‐diabetic nephropathy, increase in glucose uptake in muscle cells and inhibition of glucose absorption from intestine. Besides, it is a safe antiinflammatory agent, and its antiinflammatory mechanisms include inhibition of cyclooxygenases, antagonism of TRPV1 receptor and attenuation of proinflammatory cytokines and mediators. It is a promising and safe nutraceutical molecule for human health care. Food supplements, value‐added products and nutraceutical formulations can be developed with α‐spinasterol for the management of diabetes, chronic inflammatory diseases and improving general health. This review provides all scattered pharmacological studies on α‐spinasterol in one place and highlights its immense value for human health care.
Development of kinetic energy density functional using response function defined on the energy coordinate
Authors: Takahashi Hideaki
Published: July 2022

A kinetic energy functional was developed within the framework of the density‐functional theory (DFT) based on the energy electron density for the purpose of realizing the orbital‐free DFT. The functional includes the nonlocal term described with the linear‐response function (LRF) of a reference system. As a notable feature of the present approach, the LRF is represented on the energy coordinate ϵ defined for each system of interest. In addition, an atomic system is taken as a reference system for the construction of the LRF, which shows a clear difference from the conventional approach based on the homogeneous electron gas. The explicit form of the functional was formulated by means of the Taylor series expansion of the kinetic energy. The functional was applied to the calculations of the kinetic energies of the pseudo atoms that mimics H, He, Ne, and Ar. Explicitly, the kinetic energy of each atom was computed using the functional with respect to the variation of the valence charge Zv of each atom. In these calculations, the electron density n optimized by the Kohn‐Sham DFT was adopted as an argument of the functional. It was found that the results are in excellent agreements with those given by the Kohn‐Sham DFT. We also devised a method to perform the self‐consistent field calculation utilizing the functional . The method was applied to the computation of the radial distribution functions of the electrons in the pseudo Ne and Ar atoms. It was demonstrated that the results reasonably agree with those yielded by the Kohn‐Sham DFT.
Thermogravimetry combined with electrospray and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry for characterization of synthetic polymers
Authors: Lin Hsing‐Jung , Jhang Siou‐Sian , Hung Jui‐Hung , Zhang Yao‐Sheng , Wu Heng‐Liang , Shiea Jentaie
Published: July 2022

Rationale

Thermogravimetry (TG) combined with electrospray and atmospheric chemical ionization (ESI+APCI) mass spectrometry (MS) was developed to rapidly characterize thermal decomposition products of synthetic polymers and plastic products. The ESI‐based TG‐MS method is useful for characterizing thermally labile, nonvolatile, and polar compounds over an extensive mass range; and the APCI‐based TG‐MS counterpart is useful for characterizing volatile and nonpolar compounds. Both polar and nonpolar compounds can be simultaneously detected by ESI+APCI‐based TG–MS.

Methods

Analytes with different volatility were produced from TG operated at different temperatures, which were delivered through a heated stainless‐steel tube to the ESI+APCI source where they reacted with the primary charged species generated from electrospray and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (ESI+APCI) of solvent and nitrogen. The analyte ions were then detected by an ion trap mass spectrometer.

Results

A semi‐volatile PEG 600 standard was used as the sample and protonated and sodiated molecular ions together with adduct ions including [(PEG)n + 15]+, [(PEG)n + 18]+, and [(PEG)n + 29]+ were detected by TG‐ESI+APCI‐MS. The technique was further utilized to characterize thermal decomposition products of nonvolatile polypropylene glycol (PPG) and polystyrene (PS) standards, as well as a PS‐made water cup and coffee cup lid. The characteristic fragments of PPG and PS with mass differences of 58 and 104 between respective ion peaks were detected at the maximum decomposition temperature (Tmax).

Conclusions

The information obtained from the TG–ESI+APCI‐MS analysis is useful in rapidly distinguishing different types of polymers and their products. In addition, the signals of the additives in the polymer products, including antioxidants and plasticizers, were also detected before the TG temperature reached Tmax.
Response of soil health indicators to long‐term dairy manure in a semiarid irrigated cropping system
Authors: Dungan Robert S. , McKinney Chad W. , Acosta‐Martinez Veronica , Leytem April B.
Published: July 2022

Dairy manure fertilization is an important practice to return nutrients to agricultural soils, but there is limited knowledge regarding the effect of manure on soil health metrics in semiarid irrigated row crops. The objective of this research was to determine how long‐term dairy manure application affects biological and chemical indicators of soil health in a field experiment in southern Idaho. The treatments were no fertilizer, inorganic fertilizer (IF), and dairy manure applied annually or biennially at rates of 17, 35, and 52 Mg ha–1 on a dry weight basis. Spring soil samples were collected 7 yr after project initiation at depths of 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm and analyzed with soil health metrics that are commonly used to quantify organic matter pools and biological nutrient cycling via enzyme activities and N transformation rates. Soil organic C increased with increasing application rate and more than doubled after 7 yr of annual manure at the highest application rate. In general, C and N pools, enzyme activities, and N transformation rates were greater at 0–15 cm than deeper in the soil profile. Compared with IF, annual and biennial manure treatments had a significant effect on most indicators at both soil depths, which increased with increasing manure application rate. Because of the strong response of the indicators to dairy manure, all were found to be positively and significantly correlated with each other, suggesting that only a small subset of the metrics tested could potentially be used to evaluate the influence of manure on soil health in the region.
Changing the gendered status quo in engineering? The encouraging and discouraging experiences of young women with engineering aspirations
Authors: Nguyen Ursula , Russo‐Tait Tatiane , Riegle‐Crumb Catherine , Doerr Katherine
Published: July 2022

Young women remain underrepresented among engineering bachelor's degree holders. While there is a relatively large body of extant research on the many factors that curtail young women's interest in pursuing engineering, less is known about high school girls who are on an engineering pathway. Therefore, this study focuses on a select group of precollege young women who express a strong interest in engineering. Specifically, informed by theories of gender as a social system and previous empirical research, this mixed‐methods study explores the constellation of significant actors within the daily lives of these young women, to understand from whom and how they are supported in pursuing this gender‐atypical field, and simultaneously, from whom and how they are discouraged. To do so, the researchers analyzed survey and interview data from a sample of diverse high school girls who participate in the Society of Women Engineers' (SWE) SWENext programme. Quantitative results indicate that young women report high levels of encouragement from most sources, including parents, teachers, and other young women. However, across various peer contexts, they receive much more support from other young women than from young men. Qualitative results further reveal that parents and teachers stand out in young women's recollections of encouragement, often through advocating their participation in engineering activities or providing mentoring support. In contrast, young men in engineering spaces were recalled as particularly discouraging of their engineering participation, by socially or physically excluding them or refusing to provide recognition. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Adaptive response‐dependent two‐phase designs: Some results on robustness and efficiency
Authors: Yang Ce , Diao Liqun , Cook Richard J.
Published: July 2022

Large cohort studies now routinely involve biobanks in which biospecimens are stored for use in future biomarker studies. In such settings, two‐phase response‐dependent sampling designs involve subsampling individuals in the cohort, assaying their biospecimen to measure an expensive biomarker, and using this data to estimate key parameters of interest under budgetary constraints. When analyses are based on inverse probability weighted estimating functions, recent work has described adaptive two‐phase designs in which a preliminary phase of subsampling based on a standard design facilitates approximation of an optimal selection model for a second subsampling phase. In this article, we refine the definition of an optimal subsampling scheme within the framework of adaptive two‐phase designs, describe how adaptive two‐phase designs can be used when analyses are based on likelihood or conditional likelihood, and consider the setting of a continuous biomarker where the nuisance covariate distribution is estimated nonparametrically at the design stage and analysis stage as required; efficiency and robustness issues are investigated. We also explore these methods for the surrogate variable problem and describe a generalization to accommodate multiple stages of phase II subsampling. A study involving individuals with psoriatic arthritis is considered for illustration, where the aim is to assess the association between the biomarker MMP‐3 and the development of joint damage.