bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All‐Silicon Diatomic Terahertz Metasurface with Tailorable Linear Polarization States
Authors: Li Hui , Xu Hang , Zheng Chenglong , Liu Jingyu , Li Jie , Song Chunyu , Li Jitao , Yang Fan , Shi Wei , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yating , Yao Jianquan
Published: November 2022

Polarization plays a key role in fundamental science, and the improvement in miniaturization and practicability of polarization conversion devices could provide more degrees of freedom for light–matter interactions. Metasurfaces that can manipulate arbitrary polarization states at subwavelength scales can significantly reduce the complexity of meta‐optical systems. Here, a general design of an all‐silicon diatomic metasurface operating in the terahertz band that can generate a tailorable linear polarization state by the superposition of two meta‐atoms with individual geometric parameters is experimentally demonstrated. By periodically arranging polarization‐converting and polarization‐maintaining meta‐atoms, the existence of interference effects enables the proposed diatomic meta‐platform to act as an optimal linear polarization operator. The gradient arrangement of the meta‐molecules under the profile of the propagation phase is deduced by using the advanced Jones matrix, so that the polarization filtering and wavefront manipulation can be realized simultaneously, including the generation of tightly converged vortex and bifocal focusing beams. This demonstration of generating tailorable linear polarization states located on the Poincaré sphere directly from arbitrarily polarized waves can significantly facilitate the development of functional polarization meta‐devices.
A Review on Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes: From Materials to Applications
Authors: Tian Dadi , Ma Haiguang , Huang Guangguang , Gao Min , Cai Fensha , Fang Yan , Li Chenguang , Jiang Xiaohong , Wang Aqiang , Wang Shujie , Du Zuliang
Published: November 2022

Quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs), based on the solution‐processable colloidal quantum dots (QDs), are the high potential candidate for next generation display and lighting due to their high color purity, wide color gamut, low power consumption, and wide angle of view. Efforts have been made to improve the performance of the devices in order to achieve the goals of practical applications. This review focuses on the research progress in the materials and device physics of QLEDs, with the aims to accelerate the process of overcoming the obstacles to commercialization. Herein, the unique optical properties of QDs and the evolution of device structures are first reviewed. Then carrier dynamics, which has a decisive impact on device performance, is discussed in detail. In addition, the main obstacle to commercialization is emphasized as device stability, including operational stability, shelf stability, and efficiency roll‐off. Finally, unresolved issues in device physics are discussed, along with suggestions for future research directions. This review is expected to encourage further research in device physics and promote the development of QLEDs in the field of display and solid‐state lighting.
A High‐Detectivity, Fast‐Response, and Radiation‐Resistant TiN/CdZnTe Heterojunction Photodiode
Authors: Solovan Mykhailo M. , Mostovyi Andrii I. , Parkhomenko Hryhorii P. , Kaikanov Marat , Schopp Nora , Asare Ernest A. , Kovaliuk Taras , Veřtát Petr , Ulyanytsky Kostiantyn S. , Korbutyak Dmytro V. , Brus Viktor V.
Published: November 2022

A novel high‐performance ultraviolet–visible–near‐infrared (300–820 nm) heterojunction photodiode based on radiation‐resistant semiconductor materials is proposed. A titanium nitride (TiN) “window” layer is deposited via magnetron sputtering onto a cadmium zinc telluride (CdZnTe) solid solution single crystal. The TiN/CdZnTe heterojunction photodiodes concurrently reveal an outstanding detectivity, response time, and linear dynamic range outperforming similar heterojunction photodiodes and photodetectors, based on photoactive inorganic compound semiconductor materials. Moreover, the added feature of the proposed heterojunction photodiodes is their excellent radiation resistance, experimentally demonstrated under short impulse proton irradiation (170 keV) with an accumulated fluence of 2 × 1012 proton cm−2. This unusual synergy of high performance and advanced radiation resistance of the TiN/CdZnTe photodiodes provides a unique platform for operation in space or radioactively contaminated environments.
Differences in wasting assessment through Middle‐Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) adjusted by sex, age and geographic origin for children aged 6–59 months: New reference based on anthropometric surveys from 22 low‐and‐middle‐income countries
Authors: Lescure Javier , Martín‐Turrero Irene , López‐Ejeda Noemí , Vargas Antonio , Marrodán María Dolores
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The Middle Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) bracelet is a widely used instrument in public health assessments and humanitarian assistance projects. The WHO guidelines present a universal cut‐off point of 115 mm to determine whether a child has severe acute malnutrition. The objective of this study is to analyze the existing differences in the MUAC for boys and girls aged between 6 and 59 months, from 22 countries distributed in three different continents, in contrast to the use of this single cut‐off point. In addition, the creation of MUAC growth charts is presented for reference use.

Materials and Methods

This study was carried out with a database developed by Action Against Hunger, composed, after the data pre‐processing phase, of 97 921 individuals without anthropometric failure from African, Asian, and American continents. MUAC measurements were compared between countries, dividing by sex and age groups. A k‐means method was used to create country clusters to allow comparisons and the variability was resumed using a Principal Component Analysis. For each cluster, growth curves were created and smoothed using the LOESS method.

Results

Our research has revealed the existence of differences in the MUAC between countries in both, males and females, although with different trends. The evidence was confirmed with the creation of two clusters using the k‐means method, which, when graphically represented by the Principal Component Analysis, showed that the MUAC was clearly different. There were also differences between males and females within each cluster, where growth curves did not overlap in any age group.

Conclusions

All statistical analysis indicate that there are differences in the MUAC values for children without anthropometric failure between countries, but also between sexes. With this research, a new reference is proposed that consider the existing variability between human populations to improve the precision in the determination of severe acute malnutrition in children.
Rhodium‐catalyzed Decarbonylation of Acylsilanes
Authors: Yoshida Tomoki , Kodama Takuya , Tobisu Mamoru
Published: November 2022

The rhodium‐catalyzed decarbonylation of acylsilanes is reported. This reaction proceeds through the cleavage of a carbon–silicon bond in acylsilanes. When two different acylsilanes are reacted in one batch, crossover products are formed. These results indicate that two mechanisms are operating in this catalytic reaction.
In Situ Generated Et3SiI as a Metal‐Free Catalyst for the Room‐Temperature Synthesis of γ‐Valerolactone from Levulinic Acid
Authors: Dolui Pritam , Nair Abhishek , Saini Parul , Verma Ashutosh , Elias Anil. J.
Published: November 2022

γ‐Valerolactone (GVL), an industrially important compound and green‐solvent was synthesized using a metal‐free method by I2/Et3SiH directly from levulinic acid at room temperature in good yield. Different types of keto‐acids were also subjected to this methodology to synthesize the corresponding lactones. A 2‐gram scale reaction was successfully carried out in good yield. Control experiments indicated that in situ generated Et3SiI is the active catalyst for this reaction.
(SCp)Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Satoh–Miura Reaction for Building‐up Axial Chirality: Counteranion‐Directed Switching of Reaction Pathways
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Wen , Wang Qiang , Zhang Su‐Zhen , Zheng Chao , You Shu‐Li
Published: November 2022

Satoh–Miura reaction is an important method for extending π‐systems by forging multi‐substituted benzene rings via double aryl C−H activation and annulation with alkynes. However, the development of highly enantioselective Satoh–Miura reaction remains rather challenging. Herein, we report an asymmetric Satoh–Miura reaction between 1‐aryl benzo[h]isoquinolines and internal alkynes enabled by a SCpRh‐catalyst. Judiciously choosing the counteranion of the Rh‐catalyst is crucial for the desired reactivity over the competitive formation of azoniahelicenes. Detailed mechanistic studies support the proposal of counteranion‐directed switching of reaction pathways in Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric C−H activation.
Stereodivergent Construction of Csp3−Csp3Bonds Bearing Vicinal Stereocenters by Synergistic Palladium and Phase‐Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Han Jingqiang , Liu Rixin , Lin Zitong , Zi Weiwei
Published: November 2022

Synergistic catalysis has emerged as one of the most powerful tools for stereodivergent formation of Csp3−Csp3bonds bearing vicinal stereocenters. Despite the many successes that have been achieved in this field, stereodivergent Csp3−Csp3coupling reactions involving stabilized nucleophiles remain challenging because of the competing single‐catalysis pathway. Herein, we report a synergistic palladium/phase‐transfer catalyst system that enables diastereodivergent Csp3−Csp3coupling reactions of 1,3‐dienes with stabilized nucleophile oxindoles. Both thesynandanticoupling products, bearing quaternary and tertiary vicinal stereocenters, could be selectively produced in good yields with high enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities. Non‐covalent activation of the stabilized nucleophile via chiral ion pair in a biphasic system is a crucial success factor in achieving diastereodivergence.
Men's Behaviour Change Program: Participants' and Facilitators' Perceptions
Authors: O'Connor Amanda , Panayiotidis Anastasia , Bickerdike Andrew , Opoku Sandra , Skouteris Helen
Published: November 2022

Men's behaviour change programs (MBCPs) are group programs for men using family violence. This preliminary evaluation examines participants' and facilitators' perceptions of a redeveloped MBCP. Participants reported significant improvements in their ability to manage stress, understand the impact of their use of violence, and apply skills to repair the impact of their use of violence. Facilitators reported that peer support was an important component contributing to changes in the participants' knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and behaviours. Preliminary findings indicate that the program could potentially influence men's perceptions of family violence and consequently promote the safety and wellbeing of women and children.
Asymmetrically structured polyvinylidene fluoride composite for directional high absorbed electromagnetic interference shielding
Authors: Wu Bozhen , Liu Renrong , Yang Yuhao , Zhu Honghao , Yu Yujing , Huang Jiang , Li Yulin
Published: November 2022

In the face of electromagnetic pollution issues caused by the advancement of communication technology, it is of great significance to develop materials with high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capability as well as high absorption efficiency. The nickel‐coated silicon carbide whiskers (Ni@SiCw)/graphene nanosheets (GNP)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) EMI shielding composites with the asymmetric structure are constructed by simple solution mixing and multiple hot pressing. Specifically, the Ni@SiCw in the top layer is prepared by simple electroless plating, and the saturation magnetization intensity reaches 12.50 emu/g. The combination of dielectric and magnetic losses provides reliable electromagnetic wave absorption performance with a reflection coefficient less than 0.35. GNP is selectively enriched in the bottom layer with a maximum conductivity of 85.43 S/m. The composite shows an EMI shielding performance of 36.83 dB when the GNP content is just 4 wt%, which means 99.98% of microwaves can be shielded. Furthermore, due to the distinct structure, the composites display various shielding mechanisms when electromagnetic waves are incident from different faces. Without a doubt, this asymmetric structure offers a novel approach to the preparation of directional EMI shielding materials.
Synthesis and evaluation of novel aromatic acrylic monomers for optically clear adhesive with high refractive index
Authors: Khaleghi Qusheh Bolagh Roghayeh , Salimi Ali , Kabiri Kourosh , Pourali Alireza
Published: November 2022

Conventional optical polymers have low refractive index; (RI <1.5) which limit their usage in the field of optoelectronics. Therefore, two types of aromatic monomers with highRIvalue were developed; that is, ionic monomer (PA.HEMA.NEt3.H+) withRI = 1.5150 and monomer (PA.BA.GMA) withRI = 1.5403. The monomers were then individually combined with a newly synthesized oligomer based on phthalic anhydride epoxy acrylate; that is, (EA.PA) withRI = 1.5567. The structures of the synthesized monomers and oligomer were confirmed by NMR and FTIR spectroscopy and the chemical titration of the structure end groups. Different combinations of the monomers with oligomer EA.PA were examined to develop a UV‐curing adhesive with appropriate viscosity. According to TGA and DMTA test results, the composition containing oligomer EA.PA showed improved thermal degradation stability and high glass transition temperature. The lap shear adhesion test showed positive effect of oligomer EA.PA and PA.BA.GMA with an adhesion strength of up to 1.2 MPa. TheRIvalue of the composition containing PA.BA.GMA and oligomer EA.PA was measured as 1.55 which is qualified for the most applications in optoelectronic. The improvement inRIvalue may be well attributed to the presence of aromatic rings in the polymer chain backbone. The high degree of aromaticity is in favor with the improved thermal stability in adhesive composition.
Internet usage among women‐led micro and small enterprises and household membersʼ use of the internet at home: Evidence from Indonesia during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kusumawardhani Niken , Falentina Anna , Bachtiar Palmira , Indrio Veto
Published: November 2022

This study examines whether internet usage among micro and small enterprises (MSEs) could influence household membersʼ use of the internet in terms of intensity as well as usage for productive activities. Using longitudinal data from MSEs in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, covering the period before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic, the study finds that more intensive use of the internet by female entrepreneurs is positively associated with at least an 8 percentage‐point higher probability of internet use for school‐related purposes by household members. Findings from qualitative analysis indicate that female entrepreneurs who are intensive users of the internet are more effective in persuading their household members to accept use of the internet especially for purposes related to their domain of responsibilities, such as childrenʼs education. We argue that policymakers should focus on improving digital literacy among female entrepreneurs as an affirmative action policy to ensure they can enjoy the maximum benefits that digitalisation has to offer.
Case study of a special event of low‐level windshear and turbulence at the Hong Kong International Airport
Authors: Chan P. W.
Published: November 2022

A case study of a special event of low‐level windshear and turbulence at the Hong Kong International Airport is performed. The mountainous Lantau Island to the south of the Airport may lead to terrain‐disrupted airflow disturbances in the Airport area in certain wind directions, resulting in low‐level windshear and turbulence to the aircraft. There are a number of novel features in the flow field in the airport region. First, over the seas to the west of the airport, there is sharp convergence between northerly flow and southerly flow within a short distance. Second, in the temperature measurements over this region, there are sharp increases and decreases in temperature. The performance of a high‐resolution numerical weather prediction model in predicting these features is studied. It is shown that, though the model is quite successful in reproducing some features, it may not be able to capture some novel features, such as a sharp rise of temperature and sharp convergence of the airflow. The case study may be a useful reference for aviation weather forecasters and mountain meteorologists.
Influence of Klebsiella pneumoniae and quinolone treatment on prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Weniger M , Hank T , Qadan M , Ciprani D , Michelakos T , Niess H , Heiliger C , Ilmer M , D'Haese J G , Ferrone C R , Warshaw A L , Lillemoe K D , Werner J , Liss A , Fernández-del Castillo C
Published: November 2022

Background

An increasing body of evidence suggests that microbiota may promote progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It was hypothesized that gammaproteobacteria (such as Klebsiella pneumoniae) influence survival in PDAC, and that quinolone treatment may attenuate this effect.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients from the Massachusetts General Hospital (USA) and Ludwig-Maximilians-University (Germany) who underwent preoperative treatment and pancreatoduodenectomy for locally advanced or borderline resectable PDAC between January 2007 and December 2017, and for whom a bile culture was available. Associations between tumour characteristics, survival data, antibiotic use and results of intraoperative bile cultures were investigated. Survival was analysed using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Analysis of a total of 211 patients revealed that an increasing number of pathogen species found in intraoperative bile cultures was associated with a decrease in progression-free survival (PFS) (–1·9 (95 per cent c.i. –3·3 to –0·5) months per species; P = 0·009). Adjuvant treatment with gemcitabine improved PFS in patients who were negative for K. pneumoniae (26·2 versus 15·3 months; P = 0·039), but not in those who tested positive (19·5 versus 13·2 months; P = 0·137). Quinolone treatment was associated with improved median overall survival (OS) independent of K. pneumoniae status (48·8 versus 26·2 months; P = 0·006) and among those who tested positive for K. pneumoniae (median not reached versus 18·8 months; P = 0·028). Patients with quinolone-resistant K. pneumoniae had shorter PFS than those with quinolone-sensitive K. pneumoniae (9·1 versus 18·8 months; P = 0·001).

Conclusion

K. pneumoniae may promote chemoresistance to adjuvant gemcitabine, and quinolone treatment is associated with improved survival.
Extraction and pre‐concentration of parabens in liquid pharmaceutical samples by dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction based on deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Razavi Nourolhoda , Foroutan Fahimeh , Sahebian Samaneh , Vahdati Khaki Jalil
Published: November 2022

In this paper dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction using deep eutectic solvent (DES), as an extraction solvent, was applied for the pre‐concentration and determination of parabens in liquid pharmaceutical samples. A DES composed of a hydrogen bond acceptor [choline chloride (ChCl)] and a hydrogen bond donor (glucose) achieved the highest extraction efficiency. Therefore, this solvent was selected as the extraction solvent. After the synthesis of this solvent, its various properties were investigated. Thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used for this purpose and the successful synthesis of the solvent was confirmed. HPLC with photodiode array detection was used for the analysis of paraben species. Parameters affecting the extraction efficiency were monitored and optimized through univariate analysis and experimental design. Under the optimal conditions (pH of aqueous solution 4.5, ethanol as the disperser solvent, and glucose DES as the extraction solvent), the linearity range of 0.1–5000 ng mL−1was obtained with the coefficient of determination (R2) between 0.993 and 0.9962. Limits of detections ranged from 0.04 to 0.15 ng mL−1, with relative standard deviations from 1.8% to 6.8%. The developed method was applied to the determination of parabens in liquid pharmaceuticals such as ampule, syrups, and nose drop samples. A certain amount of paraben was added to the tested real samples to increase their shelf life. The relative recoveries in these real samples ranged between 80.9% and 103.1%.
Innovative financing and marketing strategies for open spaces – A case of Pune City in India
Authors: Patil Gargi , Vhavale Aniket
Published: November 2022

Urbanization in India has been on a rise, as can also be seen in emerging economies like Brazil, China, and Indonesia. India in 2011 was 31.2% urban with 377 million living in urban areas, which increased to 34% in 2017. The urban population is set to increase to 590 million by 2030 placing pressure on Indian infrastructure, which will necessitate the construction of 700 to 900 million square meters of commercial, residential, gardens, parks, and open spaces, in order to meet the demands of urban population. In the present study, gardens and parks in the city of Pune (Maharashtra State, India) and their revenue and expenditure heads (for year 2018–19) have been administered. The paper aims to study how public sector owned gardens and parks can be better utilized for advertising, co‐working spaces, physical fitness centers and be converted into revenue generating assets for the city, which are currently acting as liabilities. Explorative research methodology has been utilized and the study is based on secondary data collected majorly from the local Municipal Corporation office. Important findings of the paper suggest – as to how under‐utilized public gardens and parks can be converted into multifaced, revenue generating areas without hindering the core objective of open places and thereby helping the city level corporation in smoothly fulfilling its roles and responsibilities. The paper would thus play a positive role in aiding the local government to look at innovative sources of financing and thus, reduce its financial dependability on higher levels of government.
Combined use of microbubbles of various sizes and single‐transducer dual‐frequency ultrasound for safe and efficient inner ear drug delivery
Authors: Liao Ai‐Ho , Wang Chih‐Hung , Wang Bo‐Han , Lin Yi‐Chun , Chuang Ho‐Chiao , Liu Hao‐Li , Shih Cheng‐Ping
Published: November 2022

We have previously applied ultrasound (US) with microbubbles (MBs) to enhance inner ear drug delivery, with most experiments conducted using single‐frequency, high‐power density US, and multiple treatments. In the present study, the treatment efficacy was enhanced and safety concerns were addressed using a combination of low‐power‐density, single‐transducer, dual‐frequency US (ISPTA = 213 mW/cm2) and MBs of different sizes coated with insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1). This study is the first to investigate the drug‐coating capacity of human serum albumin (HSA) MBs of different particle sizes and their drug delivery efficiency. The concentration of HSA was adjusted to produce different MB sizes. The drug‐coating efficiency was significantly higher for large‐sized MBs than for smaller MBs. In vitro Franz diffusion experiments showed that the combination of dual‐frequency US and large MB size delivered the most IGF‐1 (24.3 ± 0.47 ng/cm2) to the receptor side at the second hour of treatment. In an in vivo guinea pig experiment, the efficiency of IGF‐1 delivery into the inner ear was 15.9 times greater in animals treated with the combination of dual‐frequency US and large MBs (D‐USMB) than in control animals treated with round window soaking (RWS). The IGF‐1 delivery efficiency was 10.15 times greater with the combination of single‐frequency US and large size MBs (S‐USMB) than with RWS. Confocal microscopy of the cochlea showed a stronger distribution of IGF‐1 in the basal turn in the D‐USMB and S‐USMB groups than in the RWS group. In the second and third turns, the D‐USMB group showed the greatest IGF‐1 distribution. Hearing assessments revealed no significant differences among the D‐USMB, S‐USMB, and RWS groups. In conclusion, the combination of single‐transducer dual‐frequency US and suitably sized MBs can significantly reduce US power density while enhancing the delivery of large molecular weight drugs, such as IGF‐1, to the inner ear.
Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus 3 days after initiating sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor while on an extremely low carbohydrate diet: A case report
Authors: Inoue Ayumi , Katayama Akihiro , Sue Mihiro , Hasegawa Momoka , Maeda Megumi , Matoba Masaki , Ishii Takahiro , Kuribayashi Remi , Tenta Masafumi , Matsushita Yuichi , Takeda Masaya , Iseda Izumi , Wakatsuki Toshiyuki , Hida Kazuyuki
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a case with type 2 diabetes mellitus on a very‐low‐carbohydrate diet who developed euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (EDKA) 3 days after starting sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i). When initiating SGLT2i, healthcare providers should confirm the implementation of a low‐carbohydrate diet and provide intensive guidance to prevent EDKA.
Monster left circumflex artery fistula closure by vascular plug in a patient with post‐COVID‐19 myocardial infarction
Authors: Izadpanah Peyman , Hooshanginezhad Zahra , Shojaie Mohammad
Published: November 2022

Herein, we report a man with a huge coronary fistula connecting the left circumflex coronary artery to the right ventricle. During the follow‐up, the patient developed progressive symptoms of heart failure nonresponsive to medical treatment. Therefore, an endovascular closure with a vascular plug was successfully done for him. Transcatheter vascular plug occlusion can be considered as an alternative for closure of symptomatic high‐flow large coronary artery fistulas in patients with a high risk of surgery and chance of coil dislocation, embolization, or unavailability of proper coils.
Quadriplegia from cervical osteomyelodiscitis with vertebral collapse: A case report
Authors: Herrera Danay , Acosta‐Rullan Jose M. , Fox Davide , Concepcion Livasky , Hughes Jessica
Published: November 2022

Vertebral osteomyelitis is a rare clinical condition accounting for 1%–7% of all bone‐related infections. The increase in chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus or those that lead to immunosuppression, the increase in spinal instrumentation including epidural catheters for pain management, and the continual increase in intravenous (IV) drug use are factors that have led to the rise in cases. The condition may present subtly without clinical signs and symptoms making early diagnosis difficult. Here, we present a rare case of spontaneous osteodiscitis of the cervical spine complicated by epidural abscess/phlegmon, burst fracture, and spinal cord injury due to methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia in a patient with a history of intravenous drug use who presented with neck pain. The patient was treated with IV antibiotics and decompressive surgery and, however, was unable to regain the mobility of the lower extremities and regained only slight mobility in the upper extremities leading to an ultimate diagnosis of functional quadriplegia.
Relapse of Graves' disease with repetitive depression and dysphagia episodes: A case report
Authors: Sakakura Koichi
Published: November 2022

Graves' disease is a recurrent syndrome often accompanied by depression. I report a rare case in which dysphagia and bulbar myopathy indicated a relapse of Graves' disease, accompanied by recurrent depression.
Bone metastases from renal cell carcinoma: 4 years after aggressive surgeries and anti‐angiogenic therapy
Authors: Nefiss Mouadh , Abid Hichem , Gharbi Mohamed Amine , Bouzidi Ramzi , Teborbi Anis
Published: November 2022

Management of bone metastases from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has significantly changed after the era of targeted therapy that improved the overall survival (OS). Surgical decision‐making remains a subject of controversy. We report a case of pelvic bone metastasis from RCC, 2 months after nephrectomy and surgery of a revealing clavicular metastasis.
POEMS syndrome: A rare cause of ascites and pelvic effusion
Authors: Ma Jing , Chen Yi , Qin Xiaojin , Liu Xiaogang , Li Ercui , Fan Huijuan , Xie Yandong , Wang Xin
Published: November 2022

POEMS syndrome is a rare clonal plasma cell disease associated with multisystem involvement. We reported a case of 48‐year‐old woman with large volume of exudative ascites with an increased level of λ‐light chain and hepatosplenomegaly. The patient was treated with thalidomide and dexamethasone and showed a good clinical response.
A Simple Substitution on Thyroid Hormones Remarkably Alters the Regioselectivity of Deiodination by a Deiodinase Mimic
Authors: Giri Debasish , Raja Karuppusamy , Mugesh Govindasamy
Published: November 2022

The regioselective deiodinations of L‐thyroxine (T4) play key roles in the thyroid hormone homeostasis. These reactions are catalyzed by three isoforms of the selenoenzymes, iodothyronine deiodinases (Dio1, Dio2 and Dio3), which are highly homologous in nature. Dio1 mediates 5′‐ or 5‐deiodinations of T4 to produce T3 and rT3, respectively. In contrast, Dio2 and Dio3 are selective to 5′‐ or 5‐deiodination to produce T3 and rT3, respectively. Understanding of the regioselectivity of deiodination at the molecular level is important as abnormal levels of thyroid hormone have been implicated in various clinical conditions, such as hypoxia, myocardial infarction, neuronal ischemia and cancer. In this paper, we report that the electronic properties of the iodine atoms in thyroxine (T4) can be modulated through a simple substitution in the 4′‐phenolic moiety. This leads to the change in the regioselectivity of deiodination by different small molecule mimics of Dio enzymes. By using this chemical approach, we also show that the substitution of a strong electron withdrawing group facilitates the removal of all four iodine atoms in the T4 derivative. Theoretical investigations on the hydrogen bonded adducts of T4 with imidazole indicate that the charge on the iodine atoms depend on the nature of hydrogen bond between the −OH group of T4 and the imidazole moiety. While the imidazole can act as either hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) or hydrogen bond donor (HBD), the protonated imidazole acts exclusively as HBD in T4‐imidazole complex. These studies support the earlier observations that the histidine residue at the active sites of the deiodinases play an important role not only in the substrate binding, but also in altering the regioselectivity of the deiodination reactions.
Intra‐ and Intermolecular Cooperativity in the Catalytic Activity of Phosphodiester Cleavage by Self‐Assembled Systems Based on Guanidinylated Calix[4]arenes
Authors: Lisi Daniele , Vezzoni Carlo Alberto , Casnati Alessandro , Sansone Francesco , Salvio Riccardo
Published: November 2022

The calix[4]arene scaffold, blocked in the cone conformation through alkylation with long alkyl chains, and decorated at the upper rim with four guanidine or arginine units, effectively catalyzes the cleavage of the phosphodiester bond of DNA and RNA model compounds in water. An exhaustive kinetic investigation unequivocally points to the existence of spontaneous aggregation phenomena, driven by hydrophobic effect, occurring at different critical concentrations that depend on the identity of the compound. A pronounced superiority of the assembled structures compared with the monomers in solution was observed. Moreover, the catalytically active units, clustered on the macrocyclic tetrafunctional scaffold, were proved to efficiently cooperate in the catalytic mechanism and result in improved reaction rates compared to those of the monofunctional model compounds. The kinetic analysis is also integrated and corroborated with further experiments based on fluorescence spectroscopy and light scattering. The advantage of the supramolecular assemblies based on tetrafunctional calixarenes leads to believe that the active units can cooperate not only intramolecularly but also intermolecularly. The molecules in the aggregates can probably mold, flex and rearrange but, at the same time, keep an ordered structure that favors phosphodiester bond cleavage. This dynamic preorganization can allow the catalytic units to reach a better fitting with the substrates and perform a superior catalytic activity.
A convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based direct method to detect stiction in control valves
Authors: Akavalappil Vijoy , Radhakrishnan Thota K. , Dave Sanjay K.
Published: November 2022

Control valves are considered important capital assets in any process industry. A properly maintained control valve can have a significant impact on how well the process is controlled as well as the overall cost of the plant. However, control valves can suffer from poor control performance due to valve non‐linearities. One of the main reasons for non‐linearity is control valve stiction. Stiction not only causes oscillations in the process variables but also shortens the life of the control valve, resulting in an economic loss for the process. In a process plant, a control engineer generally analyzes the time series plot of process value (PV), set point (SP), and controller output (OP) data and identifies stiction based on the typical shape pattern of PV/SP/OP plot. In this study, the same shape pattern methodology is adapted to identify stiction using convolutional neural network (CNN) technique. A one‐dimensional convolution neural network (Conv1D) algorithm is developed, which works directly on PV/SP/OP time series data for stiction detection. The proposed CNN algorithm is tested on both simulated and industrial control loop data. The suggested method provides promising results with a combined stiction prediction accuracy of 92% (92.2% in predicting non‐sticky and 91.53% in predicting sticky loops) for the industrial loops data studied.
New progress in the extraction and identification of Mexican cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) in fresh dyed wool and dyed wool with artificially accelerated aging and color description
Authors: Cruz Mojica Karen , León Santiago Mayra , Varela García Emiliano , Reyes Lezama Marisol , Tapia Mendoza Everardo
Published: November 2022

The main purpose of this study was to determine if a method developed in the laboratory by HPLC‐ESI‐QToF was able to identify the characteristic compounds of the Mexican cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) in freshly dyed wool fiber and following an artificially accelerated aging process. Wool fibers were dyed with various formulations of popular interest (red‐orange, Mexican red, cochineal red, and purple). These formulations are currently used by indigenous communities in the south of Mexico. Some dyed wools were aged in an UV chamber, in order to simulate the deterioration that a fiber dyed in a previous time could have. Notable results were the identification of the main component, carminic acid, and the respective biomarkers of the Mexican cochineal (dcII, dcIV, and dcVII) with a small amount of sample and in a short time, in three of the four formulations before and after aging, thus providing a method that can probably be used for conservation purposes of cultural heritage. It was concluded that when alum is used as a mordant and as a carbonate pH fixer, the fixation of cochineal on the wool is not very strong. This is one of the few works where Mexican cochineal has been studied, simulating the deterioration due to the passage of time in wool samples of different colors with the same natural dye. As a way of describing the color more objectively, the color was measured with the CIE L*A*B* scale in the four formulations of interest, in recently dyed and artificially aged wool.
Determination of quality grade of tobacco leaf by image processing on correlated color temperature
Authors: Odabas Mehmet Serhat , Şenyer Nurettin , Kurt Dursun
Published: November 2022

The most important factor in tobacco is quality. It is the sum of physical, chemical, and smoking properties that characterize quality. Post‐harvest curing of leaves plays an important role in quality. In this study, an approach based on correlated color temperature (CCT) is proposed to determine the ideal curing time of tobacco leaves. While photographing leaf samples from different days during the curing of tobacco leaves, color correction was made using X‐rite color checker to eliminate the negative effect of ambient light. CCT values were calculated from the repaired photographs using the McCammy method. The inclusion rate of pixels during the calculation is 97%. The equation of CCT variation depending on the day is fitted as . RMSE (26.77 K) and high value were calculated as 98.8% in the equation. CCT values have been converted to quality grade (QG) values to be more understandable. As a result of the study, CCT values ranged between 5000 and 2500 K and corresponding QG values ranged between 79% and 105%. The ideal curing time was calculated as the 17th day after harvesting, the QG value for that day was 100% and the average CCT value was 3000 K.
Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers for Biosimilar Development and Approval: A Workshop Summary
Authors: Florian Jeffry , Sun Qin , Schrieber Sarah J. , White Richard , Shubow Sophie , Johnson‐Williams Bernadette E. , Sheikhy Morasa , Harrison Nicholas R. , Parker Valerie J. , Wang Yow‐Ming , Strauss David G.
Published: November 2022

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Biosimilars Guidance describes how biosimilars may be approved based on clinical pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarker data, without comparative clinical studies with efficacy end points. This type of clinical development program, however, has only been implemented for a small number of FDA‐approved biosimilar products over the last decade. To encourage the use of PD biomarkers in biosimilar development and approval, the Duke‐Margolis Center for Health Policy collaborated with the FDA to host a two‐day virtual public workshop entitled “Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers for Biosimilar Development and Approval” on September 20–21, 2021. The public workshop was a forum for global regulators, biopharmaceutical developers, and academic researchers to discuss the current and future role of PD biomarkers in improving the efficiency of biosimilar development and approval. The workshop objectives included: (i) discuss the current and potential future state of leveraging PD biomarkers for biosimilar development and approval; (ii) summarize the FDA's initiatives to advance biosimilar development; (iii) describe stakeholders' experience with PD biomarkers in biosimilar development; and (iv) explain research efforts to promote broader application of PD biomarkers in biosimilar development. This document summarizes presentations and panel discussions from each session of the two‐day September 2021 public workshop covering the application of PD biomarkers for biosimilar development.
Evaluating the Clinical and Immune Responses to Spotted Fever Rickettsioses in the Guinea Pig‐Tick‐Rickettsia System
Authors: Stokes John V. , Levin Michael L. , Cross Claire E. , Ross Anne‐Marie L. , Snellgrove Alyssa N. , Willeford Bridget V. , Alugubelly Navatha , Varela‐Stokes Andrea S.
Published: November 2022

The guinea pig was the original animal model developed for investigating spotted fever rickettsiosis (SFR). This model system has persisted on account of the guinea pig's conduciveness to tick transmission of SFR agents and ability to recapitulate SFR in humans through clinical signs that include fever, unthriftiness, and in some cases the development of an eschar. The guinea pig is the smallest animal model for SFR that allows the collection of multiple blood and skin samples antemortem for longitudinal studies. This unit provides the basic protocols necessary to establish, maintain, and utilize a guinea pig‐tick‐Rickettsia model for monitoring the course of infection and immune response to an infection by spotted fever group Rickettsia (SFGR) that can be studied at biosafety level 2 (BSL‐2) and arthropod containment level 2 (ACL‐2); adaptations must be made for BSL‐3 agents. The protocols cover methods for tick feeding and colony development, laboratory infection of ticks, tick transmission of Rickettsia to guinea pigs, and monitoring of the course of infection through clinical signs, rickettsial burden, and immune response. It should be feasible to adapt these methods to study other tick‐borne pathogens. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Tick transmission of SFGR to guinea pigs

Support Protocol 1: Laboratory infection of ticks by injection

Alternate Protocol 1: Needle inoculation of SFGR to guinea pigs

Basic Protocol 2: Monitoring the course of guinea pig rickettsial infection: clinical signs

Basic Protocol 3: Monitoring the course of guinea pig rickettsial infection: collection of biological specimens

Support Protocol 2: Guinea pig anesthesia

Basic Protocol 4: Monitoring rickettsial burden in guinea pigs by multiplex qPCR

Basic Protocol 5: Monitoring guinea pig immune response to infection: blood leukocytes by flow cytometry

Basic Protocol 6: Monitoring immune response to guinea pig rickettsial infection: leukocyte infiltration of skin at the tick bite site by flow cytometry

Basic Protocol 7: Monitoring the immune response to guinea pig rickettsial infection: antibody titer by ELISA

Support Protocol 4: Coating ELISA Plates

Alternate Protocol 2: Monitoring immune response to guinea pig rickettsial infection: antibody titer by immunofluorescence assay
Bacteriophage Isolation, Purification, and Characterization Techniques Against Ubiquitous Opportunistic Pathogens
Authors: Peters Danielle L. , Harris Greg , Davis Carly M. , Dennis Jonathan J. , Chen Wangxue
Published: November 2022

Healthcare‐associated infection with “ESKAPE” pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) is a global health crisis due to their extensive intrinsic antibiotic resistance and the ability to quickly acquire resistance determinants. Alternative treatment options are required to combat this crisis, and one possibility is the use of bacteriophages, or viruses that strictly infect the pathogenic bacteria. Currently, there is a renaissance in research and development into the use of phages to target multi‐, extensively, and pan‐resistant bacterial infections in humans, known as phage therapy. Using A. baumannii as an example, this article describes the isolation and purification of bacteriophages from sewage and soil samples, as well as general methods used in phage research such as precipitation of phages using polyethylene glycol, host range analysis, single‐cell burst size determination, DNA extraction, and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. © 2022 National Research Council Canada. Current Protocols © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation of bacteriophages against A. baumannii from sewage samples

Alternate Protocol 1: Isolation of bacteriophages against A. baumannii from soil samples

Support Protocol 1: Titering a bacteriophage stock

Basic Protocol 2: Purification of phage to an axenic working stock

Support Protocol 2: Liquid propagation of bacteriophage

Basic Protocol 3: Host range analysis using the spot plate method

Basic Protocol 4: Single burst size analysis

Alternate Protocol 2: One‐step growth curve

Basic Protocol 5: Precipitation of bacteriophage using PEG 6000

Basic Protocol 6: DNA extraction from dsDNA bacteriophages

Basic Protocol 7: Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of novel phage genomes
Enhancing iPSC‐CM Maturation Using a Matrigel‐Coated Micropatterned PDMS Substrate
Authors: Jimenez‐Vazquez Eric N. , Jain Abhilasha , Jones David K.
Published: November 2022

Cardiac myocytes isolated from adult heart tissue have a rod‐like shape with highly organized intracellular structures. Cardiomyocytes derived from human pluripotent stem cells (iPSC‐CMs), on the other hand, exhibit disorganized structure and contractile mechanics, reflecting their pronounced immaturity. These characteristics hamper research using iPSC‐CMs. The protocol described here enhances iPSC‐CM maturity and function by controlling the cellular shape and environment of the cultured cells. Microstructured silicone membranes function as a cell culture substrate that promotes cellular alignment. iPSC‐CMs cultured on micropatterned membranes display an in‐vivo‐like rod‐shaped morphology. This physiological cellular morphology along with the soft biocompatible silicone substrate, which has similar stiffness to the native cardiac matrix, promotes maturation of contractile function, calcium handling, and electrophysiology. Incorporating this technique for enhanced iPSC‐CM maturation will help bridge the gap between animal models and clinical care, and ultimately improve personalized medicine for cardiovascular diseases. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Cardiomyocyte differentiation of iPSCs

Basic Protocol 2: Purification of differentiated iPSC‐CMs using MACS negative selection

Basic Protocol 3: Micropatterning on PDMS
How do introductory field biology students feel? Journal reflections provide insight into student affect
Authors: Treibergs Kira A. , Esparza David , Yamazaki Jeannie A. , Goebel Marc , Smith Michelle K.
Published: November 2022

An understanding of both cognitive and affective domains of learning is critical to promoting undergraduate student success in biology. Field courses—which support student learning, observation, and experimentation in the outdoors—have been shown to be effective in supporting cognitive student outcomes. However, less is known about students' affective responses during field instruction. To better understand the affective domain in this course type, we asked students enrolled in a campus‐based introductory field biology course to engage in weekly reflective journaling over the course of a semester. We employed inductive and deductive coding of over 700 field journal reflections using the Model of the Affective Domain for the Geosciences as a conceptual basis. Informed by our results, we present a theoretically‐driven, five‐part Framework of Student Affect in Field Biology and in‐depth and novel insights into what students feel, believe, and value as they participate in an undergraduate field course. Our framework and coding results can be used by field course instructors to understand how to better design experiences that leave students feeling confident in their abilities, interested to learn more about nature, and empowered to persist in the discipline.