bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Evolution, Oxygen Evolution, and Oxygen Reduction at Polarizable Liquid|Liquid Interfaces
Authors: Opallo Marcin , Dusilo Katarzyna , Warczak Magdalena , Kalisz Justyna
Published: August 2022

Research on hydrogen evolution (HER), oxygen evolution (OER), and oxygen reduction (ORR) reactions at polarizable liquid|liquid interfaces was reviewed. A number of biphasic systems based on hydrophobic molecular solvents and hydrophobic ionic liquids was proposed to carry out these reactions. For HER and ORR metallocenes were extensively explored as electron donors and metallocene hydrides were found as intermediate product. The number of approaches to increase the efficiency of these reactions was proposed. They include assembly/electrodeposition of nanocatalysts at liquid|liquid interface, dissolution of molecular catalysts in organic phase, electro/photochemical regeneration of electron donor, and application of light. For biphasic OER light‐driven systems employing nanoparticles assembled at a liquid|liquid interface were reported.
High‐Efficient Ultrathin PdCuMo Porous Nanosheets with Abundant Defects for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Gao Fan , Li Chuanliang , Ren Yangyang , Li Baosong , Lv Chenhao , Yang Xiaojing , Zhang Xinghua , Lu Zunming , Yu Xiaofei , Li Lanlan
Published: August 2022

To reduce the over‐dependence on Pt, Pd‐based catalysts have become one of the most effective candidates for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In order to further accelerate the ORR kinetics and strengthen the catalytic performance of Pd catalysts, component optimization and morphology design have been adopted. Although great progress has been made, it is still difficult to obtain porous ultrathin nanosheets with excellent performance by a simple method. Here, ultrathin PdCuMo porous nanosheets (PdCuMo NSs) were successfully prepared. This structure possessed a large specific surface area with rich cavities and structural defects, significantly enhancing its ORR performance. In special, the mass activity of PdCuMo NSs was 1.46 A mg−1 at 0.90 V, which was 12.2, 8.6, and 2.7 times as high as that of Pd/C, Pt/C, and PdCuMo nanoparticles (PdCuMo NPs), respectively. In addition, it had an excellent ability to resist CO poisoning and exhibited remarkable long‐term stability.
Hydroxyl Group‐Enabled Highly Efficient Ligand for Pd‐Catalyzed Telomerization of 1,3‐Butadiene with CO2
Authors: Yang Zhengyi , Shen Chaoren , Dong Kaiwu
Published: August 2022

Comprehensive Summary

By introducing hydroxyl group into PPh3 ligand, a promoter‐free palladium catalytic system based on (p‐HOC6H4)PPh2 ligand was developed for the telomerization of 1,3‐butadiene with CO2. High activity and selectivity towards CO2‐incorporated divinyl δ‐lactone monomer were achieved (TON/TOF: up to 4540/568 h–1; selectivity of δ‐lactone and its isomers: up to 97%). The key role of phenolic hydroxyl group of the ligand in attaining high activity was validated. The good performance of large‐scale reaction in batch reactor demonstrated the potential utility of this simple catalytic system in valorizing CO2 with bulk chemical feedstock.
Synthesis of Clionastatins A and B through Enhancement of Chlorination and Oxidation Levels of Testosterone
Authors: Cui Hao , Shen Yang , Wang Ruifeng , Wei Haoxiang , Lei Xin , Chen Yanyu , Fu Pengfei , Wang Haoxiang , Bi Ruihao , Zhang Yandong
Published: August 2022

Comprehensive Summary

A full account of semisyntheses of polychlorinated marine steroids clionastatins A and B is described. We have developed a unique two‐stage chlorination‐oxidation strategy that enabled concise and divergent semisyntheses of clionastatins A and B in 16 steps from inexpensive testosterone. Key transformations in chlorination stage include (a) conformationally controlled, stereospecific dichlorination through an unusual β‐chloronium intermediate to install the diequatorial C1,C2‐dichloride; (b) C4‐OH directed C19–H oxygenation followed by challenging neopentyl chlorination to install the C19–Cl. The high oxidation level was constructed through (a) the desaturation at C6–C7 through one‐pot photochemical dibromination–reductive debromination; (b) regioselective anti‐Markovnikov oxidation of the C6–C7 double bond by photoredox‐metal dual catalysis to forge the B ring enone; (c) late‐stage desaturation with SeO2 to introduce C8–C9 double bond. Wharton transposition was used to forge the D‐ring enone, and thermodynamically driven epimerization secured the cis‐fused C/D ring system. Furthermore, we also provided a 14‐step approach to clionastatin A by optimizing the construction of the D‐ring enone with a dehydration‐oxidation sequence.
The NBN founder mutation—Evidence for a country specific difference in age at cancer manifestation
Authors: Chrzanowska Krystyna H. , Seemanova Eva , Varon Raymonda , Digweed Martin , Piekutowska‐Abramczuk Dorota , Sperling Karl , Seeman Pavel
Published: August 2022

Background

Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) is an autosomal‐recessive chromosome instability disorder characterized by, among others, hypersensitivity to X‐irradiation and an exceptionally high risk for lymphoid malignancy. The vast majority of NBS patients is homozygous for a common Slavic founder mutation, c.657del5, of the NBN gene, which is involved in the repair of DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs). The founder mutation also predisposes heterozygous carriers to cancer, apparently however, with a higher risk in the Czech Republic/Slovakia (CS) than in Poland.

Aim

To examine whether the age of cancer manifestation and cancer death of NBN homozygotes is different between probands from CS and Poland.

Methods

The study is restricted to probands born until 1989, before replacement of the communist regime by a democratic system in CS and Poland, and a substantial transition of the health care systems. Moreover, all patients were recruited without knowledge of their genetic status since the NBN gene was not identified until 1998.

Results

Here, we show that cancer manifestation of NBN homozygotes is at a significantly earlier age in probands from CS than from Poland. This is explained by the difference in natural and medical radiation exposure, though within the permissible dosage.

Conclusion

It is reasonable to assume that this finding also sheds light on the higher cancer risk of NBN heterozygotes in CS than in Poland. This has implications for genetic counseling and individualized medicine also of probands with other DNA repair defects.
Non‐physical Species in Chemical Kinetic Models: A Case Study of Diazenyl Hydroxy and Diazenyl Peroxide**
Authors: Mitnik Nelly , Haba Sharon , Grinberg Dana Alon
Published: August 2022

Predictive chemical kinetic models often consider hundreds to thousands of intermediate species. An even greater number of species are required to generate pressure‐dependent reaction networks for gas‐phase systems. As this immense chemical search space is being explored using automated tools by applying reaction templates, it is probable that non‐physical species will infiltrate the model without being recognized by the compute or a human as such. These non‐physical species might obey chemical intuition as well as requirements coded in the software, e. g., obeying element electron valence constraints, and may consequently remain unnoticed. Non‐physical species become an acute problem when their presence affects a model observable. Correcting a pressure‐dependent network containing a non‐physical species may significantly affect the computed rate coefficient. The present work discusses and analyzes two specific cases of such species, diazenyl hydroxy (⋅N=NOH) and diazenyl peroxide (⋅N=NOOH), both previously suggested as intermediates in nitrogen combustion systems. A comprehensive conformational search did not identify any non‐fragmented energy well, and energy scans performed for diazenyl peroxide (⋅N=NOOH), at DFT and CCSD(T) show that it barrierlessly decomposes. This work highlights a broad implication for future automated chemical kinetic model generation, and provides a significant motivation to standardize non‐physical species identification in chemical kinetic models.
Inference on spatial heterogeneity in tumor microenvironment using spatial transcriptomics data
Authors: Biswas Antara , Ghaddar Bassel , Riedlinger Gregory , De Subhajyoti
Published: August 2022

In the tumor microenvironment (TME), functional interactions among tumor, immune, and stromal cells and the extracellular matrix play key roles in tumor progression, invasion, immune modulation, and response to treatment. Intra‐tumor heterogeneity is ubiquitous not only at the genetic and transcriptomic levels but also in the composition and characteristics of TME. However, quantitative inference on spatial heterogeneity in the TME is still limited. Here, we propose a framework to use network graph‐based spatial statistical models on spatially annotated molecular data to gain insights into modularity and spatial heterogeneity in the TME. Applying the framework to spatial transcriptomics data from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma samples, we observed significant global and local spatially correlated patterns in the abundance score of tumor cells; in contrast, immune cell types showed dispersed patterns in the TME. Hypoxia, EMT, and inflammation signatures contributed to intra‐tumor spatial variations. Spatial patterns in cell type abundance and pathway signatures in the TME potentially impact tumor growth dynamics and cancer hallmarks. Tumor biopsies are integral to the diagnosis and clinical management of cancer patients; our data suggest that owing to intra‐tumor non‐genetic spatial heterogeneity, individual biopsies may underappreciate the extent of clinically relevant, functional variations across geographic regions within tumors.
Stability and bifurcation analysis of low‐frequency electrostatic waves in warm negative ion plasmas
Authors: Alinejad Hassan
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we perform stability and bifurcation analysis of ion‐acoustic waves in a plasma consisting of warm adiabatic positive and negative ions, evolving against a uniform background of isothermal electrons. The model consists of two nonlinear ordinary differential equations incorporating ion temperature, negative ion concentration and negative‐to‐positive ion mass. We derive the normal form of bifurcation which allows the determination of travelling wave solutions for various regions in the parameter space of warm negative ion plasmas. It is shown that negative/positive ion temperature broadens the region prior to the saddle‐node bifurcation, thereby allowing the propagation of solitary and supernonlinear periodic waves. For a range of ion mass ratio and ion temperature, we find different existence domains of stability region, and examine the occurrence of transcritical bifurcation as a function of various plasma parameters. Further, we perform a numerical phase portrait analysis of the complex system including homoclinic orbits, nonlinear periodic and super nonlinear periodic orbits. The effects of ion mass ratio and ion temperature on the characteristic of these nonlinear structures are discussed in detail. Our results are relevant to wave solutions in laboratory and space plasmas, where simultaneous presence of warm negative/positive ions are observed.
Prospective associations between loneliness and disordered eating from early adolescence to adulthood
Authors: Cortés‐García Laura , Rodríguez‐Cano Rubén , von Soest Tilmann
Published: August 2022

Objective

Despite findings from numerous cross‐sectional studies suggesting a substantial association between loneliness and different types of disordered eating, much remains unknown about the impact of confounding, the order of cause and effect, and gender differences in the relationship. Thus, this study followed a large, population‐based, mixed‐gender sample through adolescence and young adulthood, applying a random intercept cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) approach to examine the bidirectional prospective associations between loneliness and disordered eating while ruling out the effect of unmeasured time‐invariant confounders.

Method

A Norwegian sample of N = 2933 adolescents (54.2% female) was examined across four time points (T1, Mage = 15.44, grades 7–12; T2, Mage = 16.93; T3, Mage = 21.84; and T4, Mage = 28.33) from 1992 to 2005 using RI‐CLPMs for overall disordered eating and specific forms for disordered eating (dieting and bulimic symptoms). Multigroup structural equation models were used to assess gender differences.

Results

For male participants, high levels of loneliness at T1 predicted more overall disordered eating and more dieting at T2. Meanwhile, among female participants, disordered eating and bulimic symptoms at T2 predicted more loneliness at T3, whereas loneliness at T3 predicted more disordered eating and bulimic symptoms at T4, and vice versa.

Discussion

The findings suggest a pattern of bidirectional associations between loneliness and disordered eating that varies by time points, gender, and type of eating problem. Preventive interventions and treatment should consider social factors involved in the onset and maintenance of eating problems in male adolescents and young adult women.

Public Significance

This study contributes to the existing knowledge by examining for the first time the dynamic nature of the association between loneliness and disordered eating while accounting for all time‐invariant confounding. Our findings reveal a pattern of bidirectional associations between loneliness and disordered eating that appears to vary by developmental period, gender, and type of eating problem. Our findings suggest that social factors have to be taken into account when designing prevention strategies aimed at disordered eating.
Prediction of diffuse solar radiation using machine learning models based on sunshine period and sky‐clearness index for the humid‐subtropical climate of India
Authors: Mustafa Jawed , Husain Shahid , Khan Uzair Ali , Akhtar Md Mozammil
Published: August 2022

Machine learning (ML) models were developed to estimate monthly average diffuse solar radiation (DSR) with sky‐clearness index and relative sunshine period as inputs for the humid subtropical climate of India. Three categories of ML models were defined, each having six models. The solar radiation data was split into two parts, the “Training dataset” used to develop the models and the “Validation dataset” used to test the models. Model accuracy was investigated as a function of various commonly used statistical pointers. A comparison was made between the ML models and well‐known empirical models from prior research. Global performance indicator was used to rank ML models within each category. The projected values from the ML models and solar radiation data were in reasonable agreement. Thus, DSR can be accurately predicted using ML models in the area under consideration.
A companion to the preclinical common data elements for rodent models of pediatric acquired epilepsy: A report of the TASK3‐WG1B, Pediatric and Genetic Models Working Group of the ILAE/AES Joint Translational Task Force
Authors: Katsarou Anna‐Maria , Kubova Hana , Auvin Stéphane , Mantegazza Massimo , Barker‐Haliski Melissa , Galanopoulou Aristea S. , Reid Christopher A. , Semple Bridgette D.
Published: August 2022

Epilepsy syndromes during the early years of life may be attributed to an acquired insult, such as hypoxic–ischemic injury, infection, status epilepticus, or brain trauma. These conditions are frequently modeled in experimental rodents to delineate mechanisms of epileptogenesis and investigate novel therapeutic strategies. However, heterogeneity and subsequent lack of reproducibility of such models across laboratories is an ongoing challenge to maintain scientific rigor and knowledge advancement. To address this, as part of the TASK3‐WG1B Working Group of the International League Against Epilepsy/American Epilepsy Society Joint Translational Task Force, we have developed a series of case report forms (CRFs) to describe common data elements for pediatric acquired epilepsy models in rodents. The “Rodent Models of Pediatric Acquired Epilepsy” Core CRF was designed to capture cohort‐general information; while two Specific CRFs encompass physical induction models and chemical induction models, respectively. This companion manuscript describes the key elements of these models and why they are important to be considered and reported consistently. Together, these CRFs provide investigators with the tools to systematically record critical information regarding their chosen model of acquired epilepsy during early life, for improved standardization and transparency across laboratories. These outcomes will support the ultimate goal of such research; that is, to understand the childhood onset‐specific biology of epileptogenesis after acquired insults, and translate this knowledge into therapeutics to improve pediatric patient outcomes and minimize the lifetime burden of epilepsy.
Numerical investigation on thermal performance of battery module with LCP‐AFC cooling system applied in electric vehicle
Authors: Guo Huizhen , Li Juan , Zhu Zhangyu , Lv Peihong
Published: August 2022

To improve the thermal performance of electric vehicle batteries, a novel cooling system of liquid cold plates coupled with air flow channels (LCP‐AFC) for battery thermal management was proposed. Three‐dimensional models were established for simulation. The effects of five factors on the heat dissipation of the electric vehicle battery module were studied, which included the battery discharge rate, inlet temperature of cooling liquid, nanofluids, airflow velocity, liquid, and air flow directions. The results showed that the maximum temperature Tmax and temperature difference ΔT of the battery module under 1 C discharge rate could be reduced by 1.1°C and 0.92°C compared to the single liquid cooling. Comparing the LCP‐AFC with single air cooling, the Tmax and ΔT of the battery module under 4 C discharge rate could be reduced by 18.74°C and 2.71°C. The temperature uniformity of the battery module was not satisfied with the inlet temperature of the cooling liquid, which was lower than 15°C. The heat transfer performance was improved by adding Al, Cu, or Ag nanoparticles into the deionized water. Among them, Ag–water nanofluid had the most significant cooling effect. Parallel flow indicated better thermal performance than cross flow and counter flow. The developed cooling system of LCP‐AFC offers a new method to design lithium‐ion battery thermal management system for controlling temperature distribution of a battery module.
Sarcopenia, healthy living, and mortality in patients with chronic liver diseases
Authors: Van Dongen Catherine , Paik James M. , Harring Michael , Younossi Youssef , Price Jillian K. , Kabbara Khaled , Golabi Pegah , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: August 2022

Chronic liver diseases (CLDs) are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Sarcopenia is an important complication of CLD that can be impacted by several modifiable risk factors. Our aim was to assess the associations between healthy living, sarcopenia, and long‐term outcomes among patients with CLD. We used the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data with National Death Index–linked mortality files. We used the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 (LS7) metrics as surrogates of healthy living. The study included 12,032 subjects (34.9% CLDs [0.5% hepatitis B virus (HBV), 1.8% hepatitis C virus (HCV), 5.7% alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD), 26.9% nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)] and 65.1% controls). Prevalence of sarcopenia was higher among NAFLD than other CLDs and the controls (40.7% in NAFLD, 27.2% in ALD, 22.4% in HCV, 16.8% in HBV, and 18.5% in controls; p < 0.001). Among NAFLD and ALD, patients with sarcopenia were less likely to meet ideal LS7 metrics than those without sarcopenia. During 27 years of follow‐up, among 4 patients with CLDs and the controls, all‐cause cumulative mortality was highest among patients with HCV (35.2%), followed by ALD (34.7%) and NAFLD (29.6%). The presence of sarcopenia was associated with higher risk of all‐cause mortality only among subjects with NAFLD (hazard ratio [HR] 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.54; p = 0.04). Among subjects with NAFLD, presence of sarcopenia was associated with higher risk of cardiovascular‐specific (HR 2.28 [1.71–3.05; p < 0.01]), cancer‐specific (HR 1.90 [1.37–2.65]; p < 0.01), diabetes‐specific (HR 6.42 [2.87–14.36]; p < 0.01), and liver‐specific mortality (HR 2.49 [1.08–5.76]; p = 0.04). The multivariable model showed that component of LS7 metrics that provided the strongest protection against sarcopenia were ideal body mass index, ideal blood pressure, ideal physical activity, and ideal glycemic control among subjects with NAFLD subjects. Conclusions: Among subjects with NAFLD, sarcopenia is associated with a higher risk of all‐cause mortality and liver mortality. Attainment of ideal LS7 metrics provides protection against sarcopenia in NAFLD.
Assessment of attrition and retention factors in the oncology pharmacy workforce: Results of the oncology pharmacy workforce survey
Authors: Rao Kamakshi V. , Gulbis Alison M. , Mahmoudjafari Zahra
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Hospital departments of pharmacy are experiencing significant challenges in the recruitment and retention of trained hematology‐oncology pharmacists. The reasons for these challenges are varied, but one consistent challenge is the growing attrition of clinically‐trained pharmacists from the patient care environment.

Methods

An electronic 21‐item survey was distributed to oncology pharmacists across the United States. The survey assessed work environment, board certification, clinical commitment, and other factors. How those factors might be associated with reported job satisfaction and risk for attrition was examined.

Results

A total of 607 individuals responded to at least one of the survey questions, with the majority representing those actively in clinical practice. The results demonstrate that the oncology pharmacy workforce is a highly trained and capable one, with a high level of satisfaction with their work. That said, over 60% of those who responded indicated that they were either actively seeking or open to alternate employment outside of the patient care environment. The largest contributing factors to attrition risk include untenable work burdens, burnout, lack of work‐life integration, and ineffective leadership, while commitments to clinical work were associated with improved job satisfaction and decreased attrition risk.

Conclusion

These results bring to light the current state of satisfaction and attrition risk for the oncology pharmacy workforce nationwide. A significant opportunity exists to improve the experience of these pharmacists, particularly in the patient care environment. Based on these findings, departmental, organizational, and national leadership must pursue more tenable work burdens, better value and recognition measures, and more accurate and meaningful metrics for clinical pharmacists in order to retain this important workforce.
Effects of cell seeding technique and cell density on BMP‐2 production in transduced human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Collon Kevin , Bell Jennifer A. , Chang Stephanie W. , Gallo Matthew C. , Sugiyama Osamu , Marks Carolyn , Lieberman Jay R.
Published: August 2022

Small animal models have demonstrated the efficacy of ex vivo regional gene therapy using scaffolds loaded with BMP‐2‐expressing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Prior to clinical translation, optimization of seeding techniques of the transduced cells will be important to minimize time and resource expenditure, while maximizing cell delivery and BMP‐2 production. No prior studies have investigated cell‐seeding techniques in the setting of transduced cells for gene therapy applications. Using BMP‐2‐expressing transduced adipose‐derived MSCs and a porous ceramic scaffold, this study compared previously described static and dynamic seeding techniques with respect to cell seeding efficiency, uniformity of cell distribution, and in vitro BMP‐2 production. Static and negative pressure seeding techniques demonstrated the highest seeding efficiency, while orbital shaking was associated with the greatest increases in BMP‐2 production per cell. Low density cell suspensions were associated with the highest seeding efficiency and uniformity of cell distribution, and the greatest increases in BMP‐2 production from 2 to 7 days after seeding. Our results highlight the potential for development of an optimized cell density and seeding technique that could greatly reduce the number of MSCs needed to produce therapeutic BMP‐2 levels in clinical situations. Further studies are needed to investigate in vivo effects of cell seeding techniques on bone healing.
Complications, Symptoms, Presurgical Predictors in Patients With Chronic Hypoparathyroidism: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yao Liang , Hui Xu , Li Meixuan , Li Jing , Ahmed Muhammad Muneeb , Lin Clement , Kandi Maryam , Sreekanta Ashwini , Makhdami Nima , Tamilselvan Divya , Ali Dalal S. , Dandurand Karel , Yang Kehu , Bilezikian John P. , Brandi Maria Luisa , Clarke Bart L. , Mannstadt Michael , Rejnmark Lars , Khan Aliya A. , Guyatt Gordon
Published: August 2022

The complications and symptoms of hypoparathyroidism remain incompletely defined. Measuring serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium levels early after total thyroidectomy may predict the development of chronic hypoparathyroidism. The study aimed (i) to identify symptoms and complications associated with chronic hypoparathyroidism and determine the prevalence of those symptoms and complications (Part I), and (ii) to examine the utility of early postoperative measurements of PTH and calcium in predicting chronic hypoparathyroidism (Part II). We searched Medline, Medline In-Process, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL to identify complications and symptoms associated with chronic hypoparathyroidism. We used two predefined criteria (at least three studies reported the complication and symptom and had statistically significantly greater pooled relative estimates). To estimate prevalence, we used the median and interquartile range (IQR) of the studies reporting complications and symptoms. For testing the predictive values of early postoperative measurements of PTH and calcium, we used a bivariate model to perform diagnostic test meta-analysis. In Part I, the 93 eligible studies enrolled a total of 18,973 patients and reported on 170 complications and symptoms. We identified nine most common complications or symptoms probably associated with chronic hypoparathyroidism. The complications or symptoms and the prevalence are as follows: nephrocalcinosis/nephrolithiasis (median prevalence among all studies 15%), renal insufficiency (12%), cataract (17%), seizures (11%), arrhythmia (7%), ischemic heart disease (7%), depression (9%), infection (11%), and all-cause mortality (6%). In Part II, 18 studies with 4325 patients proved eligible. For PTH measurement, regarding the posttest probability, PTH values above 10 pg/mL 12–24 hours postsurgery virtually exclude chronic hypoparathyroidism irrespective of pretest probability (100%). When PTH values are below 10 pg/mL, posttest probabilities range from 3% to 64%. Nine complications and symptoms are probably associated with chronic hypoparathyroidism. A PTH value above a threshold of 10 pg/mL 12–24 hours after total thyroidectomy is a strong predictor that the patients will not develop chronic hypoparathyroidism. Patients with PTH values below the threshold need careful monitoring as some will develop chronic hypoparathyroidism. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Panchromatic oxasmaragdyrin as dual functional hole‐transporting material in all‐inorganic CsPbIBr2 perovskite solar cells
Authors: Leonardus Mario , Rameez Mohammad , Aji Bramantyo Bayu , Wu Wen‐Ti , Hung Chen‐Hsiung
Published: August 2022

All‐inorganic perovskite CsPbIBr2 offers both an optimal bandgap and good stability. The perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with CsPbIBr2 as a solar harvester utilize mainly spiro‐OMeTAD as a hole‐transporting material (HTM). Still, these PSCs are prone to degradation and not cost‐effective. Herein we examined, for the first time, a metal‐free dimethoxyboranyl (B(OR)2) chelated oxasmaragdyrin, SM‐OMe, as an alternative bifunctional HTM for CsPbIBr2‐based PSCs to demonstrate promising power conversion efficiencies at lower costs. The devices with SM‐OMe as HTM outperform spiro‐OMeTAD‐based devices with the highest power conversion efficiency of 6.04%. This enhanced performance can be attributed to an HTM and sensitizer dual‐function of SM‐OMe, which extends the absorption edge and consequently improves the short circuit current density. Furthermore, SM‐OMe‐based devices exhibited better charge extracting and hole‐transporting properties. Hence, this study demonstrates an effective and successful utilization of a new HTM with a bifunctional role as an alternative to conventional spiro‐OMeTAD in all‐inorganic PSCs.
Hsa_circ_0045932 regulates the progression of colorectal cancer by regulating HK2 through sponging miR‐873‐5p
Authors: Hong Feng , Deng Zhihua , Tie Ruxiu , Yang Senlin
Published: August 2022

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been confirmed to be key regulators for colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. The purpose of this research was to explore the biological role and mechanism of hsa_circ_0045932 in CRC.

Methods

RT‐qPCR and Western blot (WB) were applied to examine RNA and protein levels, respectively. MTT assay, EdU assay, and transwell assay were used to detect cell proliferative, migration, and invasion. Glucose uptake and lactic acid level were determined to assess cellular glycolysis. Dual‐luciferase reporter and RIP assays were carried out to detect the relationship between miR‐873‐5p and hsa_circ_0045932 or hexokinase 2 (HK2). Xenograft mice model was established to confirm the function of hsa_circ_0045932 in vivo.

Results

Hsa_circ_0045932 was overexpressed in CRC tissue samples and cells. Hsa_circ_0045932 knockdown repressed CRC cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and glycolysis abilities in vitro. MiR‐873‐5p could be sponged by hsa_circ_0045932, and its inhibitor also reversed the inhibitory effect of hsa_circ_0045932 knockdown on CRC cell progression. HK2 was targeted by miR‐873‐5p, and hsa_circ_0045932 regulated HK2 expression through targeting miR‐873‐5p. Overexpression of HK2 reversed the repressive effect of hsa_circ_0045932 knockdown on CRC cell malignant behaviors. Furthermore, the pro‐tumor role of hsa_circ_0045932 in vivo was also confirmed using animal experiments.

Conclusion

Hsa_circ_0045932 promoted CRC progression through sponging miR‐873‐5p to up‐regulate HK2, which might offer novel therapeutic target for CRC clinical intervention.
Assessment of patient based real‐time quality control on comparative assays for common clinical analytes
Authors: Lu Yide , Yang Fan , Wen Dongmei , Shi Kaifeng , Gu Zhichao , Lu Qiuya , Wang Xuefeng , Dong Danfeng
Published: August 2022

Background

It is critical for laboratories to conduct multianalyzer comparisons as a part of daily routine work to strengthen the quality management of test systems. Here, we explored the application of patient‐based real‐time quality controls (PBRTQCs) on comparative assays to monitor the consistency among clinical laboratories.

Methods

The present study included 11 commonly tested analytes that were detected using three analyzers. PBRTQC procedures were set up with exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) algorithms and evaluated using the AI‐MA artificial intelligence platform. Comparative assays were carried out on serum samples, and patient data were collected. Patients were divided into total patient (TP), inpatient (IP), and outpatient (OP) groups.

Results

Optimal PBRTQC protocols were evaluated and selected with appropriate truncation limits and smoothing factors. Generally, similar comparative assay performance was achieved using both the EWMA and median methods. Good consistency between the results from patients' data and serum samples was obtained, and unacceptable bias was detected for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) when using analyzer C. Categorizing patients' data and applying specific groups for comparative assays could significantly improve the performance of PBRTQCs. When monitoring the inter‐ and intraanalyzer stability on a daily basis, EWMA was superior in detecting very small quality‐related changes with lower false‐positive alarms.

Conclusions

We found that PBRTQCs have the potential to efficiently assess multianalyzer comparability. Laboratories should be aware of population variations concerning both analytes and analyzers to build more suitable PBRTQC protocols.
Platelet‐derived immuno‐inflammatory indices show best performance in early prediction of COVID‐19 progression
Authors: Milenkovic Jelena , Djindjic Boris , Djordjevic Branka , Stojiljkovic Vladana , Stojanovic Dijana , Petrovic Stana , Matejic Ivan
Published: August 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) profoundly affects the immune and hematopoietic systems with various degrees of reactive changes in the blood cell counts. Immuno‐inflammatory indices are considered a simple and effective tool in the prediction of COVID‐19 outcomes. We aimed to evaluate and compare the usefulness of leukocyte and platelet counts‐based immuno‐inflammatory indices on admission to hospital in predicting COVID‐19 progression and mortality.

Methods

A total of 945 patients were enrolled. In addition to blood cell counts, we assessed hemogram‐derived immuno‐inflammatory indices in relation to COVID‐19 progression and death. The indices were tested by analysis of variance, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and binomial logistic regressions.

Results

Patients with severe COVID‐19 had significantly higher counts of neutrophils, eosinophils, and large immature cells (LIC), while decreased counts of platelets and monocytes. Lymphopenia was found in all of the patients, but without significant association with the outcomes. Patients with a LIC count ≥0.265 x 09/L had 54.7% more odds of having COVID‐19 progression. In multivariable analyses, platelets/neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (P/NLR) and platelets‐to‐neutrophil radio (P/N) were significant independent predictors of COVID‐19 progression and mortality. The odds of a poor outcome were two times higher in cases with P/NLR < 43 x 109/L and P/N < 29 x 109/L.

Conclusion

Indices that include platelet count in combination with neutrophil and/or lymphocyte counts displayed the best discriminatory ability and prognostic value of COVID‐19 outcomes. Additionally, LIC showed promising results in the early identification of severe COVID‐19.
Identification of novel compound heterozygous mutations of the MYO15A gene with autosomal recessive non‐syndromic hearing loss
Authors: Wang Luming , Zhang Yue , Xue Qiuxia , Huang Pinghua , Liu Xiaodan
Published: August 2022

Background

The most common inheritance pattern responsible for congenital deafness belongs to autosomal recessive non‐syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) and mutations of the highly heterogeneous MYO15A locus are present in a large proportion of cases.

Methods

One Chinese family with ARNSHL was subjected to clinical evaluation and genetic analysis. We used targeted and whole exome sequencing with Sanger sequencing to identify and characterize mutations. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to evaluate molecular functions.

Results

Three compound heterozygous MYO15A gene variants, including two novel variants, c.6804G > A (p.M2268I), and c.6188_6190delinsGTCA (p.F2063Cfs*60), responsible for deafness were identified. Pathogenicity was assessed by multiple bioinformatics analyses.

Conclusion

We identified novel mutations of the MYO15A locus associated with ARNSHL in a Chinese family. The current findings expand the MYO15A pathogenic mutation spectrum to assist with genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis.
No excuses, no exceptions except with compassion: A narrative review of visitor aggression in pediatrics
Authors: Jawed Aysha , Thompson Bernadette Simone
Published: August 2022

Visitor aggression in pediatrics is a form of workplace violence that has not received much focus across pediatric health care systems. There are many different practices, strategies, and policies implemented across children's hospitals to mitigate visitor aggression on both clinical and organizational levels. To date, there has not been a published review on interventions in pediatrics to de‐escalate the intensity of these circumstances in the context of providing care and treatment to children. The goals of this review are to identify and assess the efficacy of each effort implemented across diverse pediatric health care settings. This review also proposes research, organizational, clinical, and policy implications and considerations that could help inform future practice in hospital‐based violence prevention. A narrative review of the literature identified eleven peer‐reviewed studies that delineated practices, strategies, and educational efforts between 1994 and 2020. All studies were descriptive in nature. There were four cross‐sectional studies, three qualitative studies, one mixed‐methods study, two prospective studies (one of which also had a group comparison design), and one non‐experimental study. The primary measures implemented across children's hospitals involved increasing security and police presence in patient care areas (n = 3), development of multidisciplinary workgroups to review and revise visitation policies (n = 2), crisis response teams (n = 2), and incident reporting systems (n = 2). Hospital risk management, administration, and clinical leadership teams were stakeholders involved in designing interventions across studies. Hospitals varied in allocation of support resources and in defining visitor aggression which contributed to mixed findings across studies.
Impact of pregnancy planning and preconceptual dietary training on metabolic control and offspring's outcome in phenylketonuria
Authors: Grohmann‐Held Karina , Burgard Peter , Baerwald Christoph G. O. , Beblo Skadi , vom Dahl Stephan , Das Anibh , Dokoupil Katharina , Fleissner Sandra , Freisinger Peter , Heddrich‐Ellerbrok Margret , Jung Alexandra , Korpel Vanessa , Krämer Johannes , Lier Dinah , Maier Esther M. , Meyer Uta , Mühlhausen Chris , Newger Martha , Och Ulrike , Plöckinger Ursula , Rosenbaum‐Fabian Stefanie , Rutsch Frank , Santer René , Schick Petra , Schwarz Martin , Spiekerkötter Ute , Strittmatter Ursula , Thiele Alena G. , Ziagaki Athanasia , Mütze Ulrike , Gleich Florian , Garbade Sven F. , Kölker Stefan
Published: August 2022

To prevent maternal phenylketonuria (PKU) syndrome low phenylalanine concentrations (target range, 120–360 μmol/L) during pregnancy are recommended for women with PKU. We evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of current recommendations and identified factors influencing maternal metabolic control and children's outcome. Retrospective study of first successfully completed pregnancies of 85 women with PKU from 12 German centers using historical data and interviews with the women. Children's outcome was evaluated by standardized IQ tests and parental rating of child behavior. Seventy‐four percent (63/85) of women started treatment before conception, 64% (54/85) reached the phenylalanine target range before conception. Pregnancy planning resulted in earlier achievement of the phenylalanine target (18 weeks before conception planned vs. 11 weeks of gestation unplanned, p < 0.001) and lower plasma phenylalanine concentrations during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester (0–7 weeks of gestation: 247 μmol/L planned vs. 467 μmol/L unplanned, p < 0.0001; 8–12 weeks of gestation: 235 μmol/L planned vs. 414 μmol/L unplanned, p < 0.001). Preconceptual dietary training increased the success rate of achieving the phenylalanine target before conception compared to women without training (19 weeks before conception vs. 9 weeks of gestation, p < 0.001). The majority (93%) of children had normal IQ (mean 103, median age 7.3 years); however, IQ decreased with increasing phenylalanine concentration during pregnancy. Good metabolic control during pregnancy is the prerequisite to prevent maternal PKU syndrome in the offspring. This can be achieved by timely provision of detailed information, preconceptual dietary training, and careful planning of pregnancy.
Preventive and synbiotic effects of the soluble dietary fiber obtained from Lentinula edodes byproducts and Lactobacillus plantarumLP90 against dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis in mice
Authors: Xue Zihan , Li Ruilin , Liu Junyu , Zhou Jingna , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhang Tingting , Zhang Min , Yang Yang , Chen Haixia
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Soluble dietary fiber (SDF) obtained from Lentinula edodes byproducts has beneficial effects on human intestinal health. This study aimed to examine the combined preventive and ameliorative effects of a kind of synbiotic (SDF with a molecular weight of 1.58 × 102 kDa and Lactobacillus plantarum LP90 (LP) at 1 × 109 CFU kg−1) on dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis mice.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that synbiotic treatment could alleviate weight loss, decrease the disease activity index level and cause histological amelioration. Synbiotic treatment also promoted the production of goblet cells, increased the expression of tight junction proteins, and adjusted the production of myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase to repair intestinal epithelial injury. Clinical symptoms were alleviated by maintaining Th17/Treg balance, increasing interleukin 10 and immunoglobulin A levels, reducing interleukin 17a and tumor necrosis factor α production, and promoting mRNA to highly express of Foxp3 and vitamin D receptors. Moreover, synbiotic treatment could upregulate butyric acid production (4.71 ± 0.46 mol g−1 feces, P < 0.05) and diversity of intestinal microbial to maintain intestinal homeostasis.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that the combination of LP and SDF as a synbiotic has the potential for use as a nutritional supplement to alleviate colitis. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Transverse‐Electric‐Polarized Polaritons Propagating in a WS2/Si3N4/Ag Heterostructure
Authors: Li Shulei , Zhou Lidan , Deng Fu , Xiang Jin , Panmai Mingcheng , Huang Hongxing , Li Guangcan , Chen Jingdong , Lan Sheng
Published: August 2022

Strong light–matter interaction has attracted great interest due to its potential applications in photonic and plasmonic devices. So far, many studies focus on micro‐ and nanocavities with three‐dimensional confinement of light. Here, we investigate the coupling between the surface waves supported by a dielectric‐metal heterostructure and the excitons in a two‐dimensional material. It is revealed that the transverse‐electric (TE) polarized waves excited in the dielectric‐metal heterostructure possess significantly enhanced in‐plane electric field on the surface of the dielectric layer. This unique property makes it possible to realize strong photon–exciton coupling with the excitons in a two‐dimensional material. By using a tungsten disulfide (WS2)/silicon nitride (Si3N4)/silver (Ag) heterostructure, we demonstrate the strong coupling of the TE polarized waves with the two excitons (both A and B excitons) in the WS2 monolayer, creating TE polarized polaritons propagating in the heterostructure. The strong photon–exciton coupling is revealed in the angle‐resolved reflection or scattering spectra with a Rabi splitting larger than the average damping rate of the TE polarized wave and the exciton. Our findings open new horizons for manipulating light–matter interaction in two‐dimensional nanostructures and indicate the potential applications of such propagating polaritons in photonic and plasmonic devices.
Investigation of the Second Harmonic Generation at the Water–Vacuum Interface by Using Multi‐Scale Modeling Methods
Authors: Ramos Tárcius N. , Champagne Benoît
Published: August 2022

The Sequential Quantum Mechanics/Molecular Mechanics scheme has been enacted to perform a systematic investigation of the polarizability (α) and first hyperpolarizability (β) responses at the water–vacuum interface. After performing classical molecular dynamics simulations to provide snapshots of the structures, quantum chemistry calculations of the linear and nonlinear optical responses have been performed for clusters of five water molecules at the time‐dependent DFT level in combination with different embedding schemes, ranging from point charges to polarizable point charges, with and without local field effects. When going from the bulk to the interface, the main observations of these calculations encompass i) a modest increase of the average polarizability but an increase by about a factor of two of its anisotropy, ii) an increase by about 20 % of theβHRSresponse, accompanied by a small increase of its depolarization ratio, and iii) a net increase of the component of theβtensor normal to the interface (βzzz) as well as ofβ//. Globally, the interfacial effects onβare localized at the first molecular layer while they are observed up to the fourth molecular layer onα.
Communicating nature during lockdown – How conservation and outdoor organisations use social media to facilitate local nature experiences
Authors: Arts Irma , Duckett Dominic , Fischer Anke , van der Wal René
Published: August 2022

Social media impact not only our communication and social interactions but also our relationships to the natural environment. Social media can increase understanding of our environment by offering information and sharing calls to action, while at the same time, they might present a glamourised, standardised picture of nature and distract from actual outdoor interactions.

The COVID‐19 pandemic presents a unique opportunity to study the spaces created for interactions between the online and offline natural world, especially in countries where movement and thus outdoor activities were restricted during lockdowns. To understand these interactions, we investigated the social media communication of nature conservation and outdoor organisations by analysing Twitter posts of four prominent NGOs in Scotland.

We found that during the first COVID‐19‐induced UK lockdown in spring 2020, Scottish nature conservation and outdoor organisations made distinctive efforts in supporting followers to connect with nature in the face of restrictions. Organisations showed signs of moving towards community‐building through sharing experiences often related to nearby nature, while calls for environmental action, more prominent in the previous year, receded in relative importance.

Emphasis was put on sensory engagement with, and finding solace in the rhythm of, nature. References to taking action to protect nature now became linked to a green recovery from the pandemic.

We conclude that NGOs used social media not as a space separate from the outdoors, but as an augmented space where online and offline interactions were interwoven and a space in which during the COVID‐19 pandemic, new avenues for engagement were being explored.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.