bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Hole Extraction of WOx/V2Ox Dopant‐Free Contact for p‐type Silicon Solar Cell
Authors: Liu Zongtao , Lin Wenjie , Chen Zhiming , Chen Daming , Chen Yifeng , Shen Hui , Liang Zongcun
Published: February 2022

Nonstoichiometric vanadium oxide V2Ox has been demonstrated to serve as a hole‐selective contact in crystalline silicon solar cells. A reaction between V2Ox deposited by thermal evaporation and silicon can, however, result in a decreased work function (WF) and reduce hole selectivity. A straightforward and workable solution is presented in this study, which partially restores the WF of V2Ox as deposited on silicon and improving solar cell efficiency, avoiding the use of amorphous silicon. Incorporating WOx into the Ag/V2Ox1/Si structure, to form Ag/WOx/V2Ox2/Si, x1<x2, the WF determined by nonstoichiometric ratio, i.e., x, of V2Ox increases, enhancing the field passivation effect and reducing the rear recombination, which leads to a 11 mV increase in open‐circuit voltage and a 0.90 mA cm−2 increase in short‐circuit current. Finally, the solar cell gains an absolute improvement of ≈1.0% in power conversion efficiency.
Collagen‐Tannic Acid Spheroids for β‐Cell Encapsulation Fabricated Using a 3D Bioprinter
Authors: Clua‐Ferré Laura , De Chiara Francesco , Rodríguez‐Comas Júlia , Comelles Jordi , Martinez Elena , Godeau Amelie Luise , García‐Alamán Ainhoa , Gasa Rosa , Ramón‐Azcón Javier
Published: February 2022

Type 1 Diabetes results from autoimmune response elicited against β‐cell antigens. Nowadays, insulin injections remain the leading therapeutic option. However, injection treatment fails to emulate the highly dynamic insulin release that β‐cells provide. 3D cell‐laden microspheres have been proposed during the last years as a major platform for bioengineering insulin‐secreting constructs for tissue graft implantation and a model for in vitro drug screening platforms. Current microsphere fabrication technologies have several drawbacks: the need for an oil phase containing surfactants, diameter inconsistency of the microspheres, and high time‐consuming processes. These technologies have widely used alginate for its rapid gelation, high processability, and low cost. However, its low biocompatible properties do not provide effective cell attachment. This study proposes a high‐throughput methodology using a 3D bioprinter that employs an ECM‐like microenvironment for effective cell‐laden microsphere production to overcome these limitations. Crosslinking the resulting microspheres with tannic acid prevents collagenase degradation and enhances spherical structural consistency while allowing the diffusion of nutrients and oxygen. The approach allows customization of microsphere diameter with extremely low variability. In conclusion, a novel bio‐printing procedure is developed to fabricate large amounts of reproducible microspheres capable of secreting insulin in response to extracellular glucose stimuli.
Generative Adversarial Networks‐Based Synthetic Microstructures for Data‐Driven Materials Design
Authors: Narikawa Ryuichi , Fukatsu Yoshihito , Wang Zhi‐Lei , Ogawa Toshio , Adachi Yoshitaka , Tanaka Yuji , Ishikawa Shin
Published: February 2022

To understand the material paradigm, data‐driven material design necessitates both microstructural input and output in the form of visual images. Therefore, generative adversarial networks (GAN)‐based deep convolutional GAN, cycle‐consistent GAN, and super‐resolution GAN techniques are used to generate, translate, and improve the quality of microstructural images in this study. The reconstructed virtual microstructural images are realistic and indistinguishable from the real ones. Furthermore, using GAN techniques to reconstruct microstructural image suggests promising ways to design desired microstructures using parameterized descriptors and image augmentation, which are expected to advance data‐driven materials research.
High‐Quality Graphene Using Boudouard Reaction
Authors: Grebenko Artem K. , Krasnikov Dmitry V. , Bubis Anton V. , Stolyarov Vasily S. , Vyalikh Denis V. , Makarova Anna A. , Fedorov Alexander , Aitkulova Aisuluu , Alekseeva Alena A. , Gilshtein Evgeniia , Bedran Zakhar , Shmakov Alexander N. , Alyabyeva Liudmila , Mozhchil Rais N. , Ionov Andrey M. , Gorshunov Boris P. , Laasonen Kari , Podzorov Vitaly , Nasibulin Albert G.
Published: February 2022

Following the game‐changing high‐pressure CO (HiPco) process that established the first facile route toward large‐scale production of single‐walled carbon nanotubes, CO synthesis of cm‐sized graphene crystals of ultra‐high purity grown during tens of minutes is proposed. The Boudouard reaction serves for the first time to produce individual monolayer structures on the surface of a metal catalyst, thereby providing a chemical vapor deposition technique free from molecular and atomic hydrogen as well as vacuum conditions. This approach facilitates inhibition of the graphene nucleation from the CO/CO2 mixture and maintains a high growth rate of graphene seeds reaching large‐scale monocrystals. Unique features of the Boudouard reaction coupled with CO‐driven catalyst engineering ensure not only suppression of the second layer growth but also provide a simple and reliable technique for surface cleaning. Aside from being a novel carbon source, carbon monoxide ensures peculiar modification of catalyst and in general opens avenues for breakthrough graphene‐catalyst composite production.
MC1R diversity and its role in skin pigmentation variation in West Maharashtra, India
Authors: Jonnalagadda Manjari , Bharti Neeraj , Kasibhatla Sunitha Manjari , Wagh Mayur A. , Joshi Rajendra , Ozarkar Shantanu , Ashma Richa
Published: February 2022

Objectives

MC1R polymorphisms have been reported to be under a selective constraint in populations inhabiting high UVR regions such as Africans; however, these patterns are not consistent. Here we analyze the MC1R gene in West Maharashtra, India to see if sequence diversity corresponds to their diverse pigmentary profiles and if MC1R is constrained in dark skinned tribal as compared to lighter skinned caste populations.

Methods

A 2648 bp region of this gene was sequenced in 102 individuals and the data was compared for π, ϴ diversity indices. Tajima's D was assessed for signatures of purifying selection and MC1R variants were associated with MI measures using the additive, dominant, and recessive models. Pairwise FST was tested among study populations and between study populations and 1000 Genomes regional samples.

Results

MC1R diversity was not uniquely patterned among castes and tribes. Non‐synonymous variants rs2228479A, rs1805007_T, and rs885479_A showed low variability in these populations. Selection tests did not indicate any constraint on MC1R and pairwise FST were also low among the study populations (−0.0163 to 0.06112). The SNP rs3212359 was significantly associated with MI measures when tested using different association models.

Conclusions

We do not find evidence of a selective constraint on MC1R. The presence of a large number of unique haplotypes and low FST values at this locus suggests that MC1R polymorphisms may not be influencing pigmentation variation among castes and tribes in this region. Observed associations between rs3212359 and MI measures need to be validated through studies on larger samples and in‐vitro functional studies.
Healthcare costs of dementia diseases before, during and after diagnosis: Longitudinal analysis of 17 years of Swedish register data
Authors: Persson Sofie , Saha Sanjib , Gerdtham Ulf‐G. , Toresson Håkan , Trépel Dominic , Jarl Johan
Published: February 2022

Introduction

This study examines health‐care costs attributed to dementia diseases in the 10 years prior to, during, and 6 years after diagnosis.

Methods

Using administrative register data for people diagnosed with dementia (2010–2016) in southern Sweden (n = 21,184), and a comparison group without dementia, health‐care costs over 17 years were examined using longitudinal regression analysis.

Results

Average annual health‐care costs per person were consistently higher before diagnosis in the dementia group (10 years before: Swedish krona (SEK) 2063, P < .005 and 1 year before: SEK8166, P < .005). At diagnosis, health‐care costs were more than twice as high (SEK44,410, P < .005). Four to 6 years after diagnosis, there was no significant different in costs compared to comparators.

Discussion

Excess health‐care cost arise as early as 10 years before a formal diagnosis of dementia, and while there is a spike in cost after diagnosis, health‐care costs are no different 4 years after. These findings question currently accepted assumptions on costs of dementia.
Covalent Organic Framework as an Efficient Protection Layer for a Stable Lithium‐Metal Anode
Authors: He Jiarui , Bhargav Amruth , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: February 2022

Lithium (Li) metal shows great potential for achieving high‐energy‐density rechargeable batteries. However, the practical applications of Li‐metal batteries are still challenged by the formation of Li dendrites and unstable solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) on metallic Li. Herein, a thin covalent organic framework layer is in situ fabricated on Li (COF‐Li) to suppress Li dendrite growth and mitigate the side reaction on the Li anode. The COF has a periodic and uniform porosity, allowing for selectively sieving Li ions and guiding a uniform Li deposition. As a result, the COF‐Li exhibits a non‐dendrite morphology during repeated Li plating/stripping and demonstrates a remarkable cycle life over 13 200 h with an extremely low overpotential of only 16 mV at a high current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a high areal capacity of 10 mAh cm−2.
Behavioral skills training to teach college students to free‐pour standard servings of alcohol
Authors: Strickland Meagan A. , Kohn Carolynn S.
Published: February 2022

College student members of Greek Letter Organizations (GLOs) report high levels of alcohol consumption, which is associated with adverse academic and health consequences. Those who report lower consumption also report counting their drinks, which requires the ability to identify and pour standard servings of alcohol, skills college students generally lack. Behavioral skills training (BST) has been used to teach students to pour standard servings of beer. However, little is known about whether BST is effective when used in a small‐group format or with other alcohol types, and whether skills generalize across time and novel cups. We used a nonconcurrent multiple baseline design to address these gaps. After receiving small group BST, all participants poured beer accurately, most poured accurately at follow‐up, and about half poured accurately into a novel cup. After receiving individual BST, participants' pours of liquor were variable and most required additional training.
Short‐chain alcohols inactivate an immobilized industrial lipase through two different mechanisms
Authors: Mangiagalli Marco , Ami Diletta , de Divitiis Marcella , Brocca Stefania , Catelani Tiziano , Natalello Antonino , Lotti Marina
Published: February 2022

Broadly used in biocatalysis as acyl acceptors or (co)‐solvents, short‐chain alcohols often cause irreversible loss of enzyme activity. Understanding the mechanisms of inactivation is a necessary step toward the optimization of biocatalytic reactions and the design of enzyme‐based sustainable processes. The functional and structural responses of an immobilized enzyme, Novozym 435 (N‐435), exposed to methanol, ethanol, and tert‐butanol, are explored in this work. N‐435 consists of Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) adsorbed on polymethacrylate beads and finds application in a variety of processes involving the presence of short‐chain alcohols. The nature of the N‐435 material required the development of an ad hoc method of structural analysis, based on Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy, which was complemented by catalytic activity assays and by morphological observation by transmission electron microscopy. The inactivation of N‐435 was found to be highly dependent on alcohol concentration and occurs through two different mechanisms. Short‐chain alcohols induce conformational changes leading to CALB aggregation, which is only partially prevented by immobilization. Moreover, alcohol modifies the texture of the solid support promoting the enzyme release. Overall, knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying N‐435 inactivation induced by short‐chain alcohols promises to overcome the limitations that usually occur during industrial processes.
Only a small fraction of cells produce assembled capsids during transfection‐based manufacturing of adeno‐associated virus vectors
Authors: Dash Shantoshini , Sharon David M. , Mullick Alaka , Kamen Amine A.
Published: February 2022

Plasmid transfection of mammalian cells is the dominant platform used to produce adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vectors for clinical and research applications. Low yields from this platform currently make it difficult to supply these activities with adequate material. In an effort to better understand the current limitations of transfection‐based manufacturing, this study examines what proportion of cells in a model transfection produce appreciable amounts of assembled AAV capsid. Using conformation‐specific antibody staining and flow cytometry, we report the surprising result that despite obtaining high transfection efficiencies and nominal vector yields in our model system, only 5%–10% of cells appear to produce measurable levels of assembled AAV capsids. This finding implies that considerable increases in vector titer could be realized through increasing the proportion of productive cells. Furthermore, we suggest that the flow cytometry assay used here to quantify productive cells may be a useful metric for future optimization of transfection‐based AAV vector manufacturing platforms.
TAVR operator volumes, trends, and geographic variations amongst Medicare beneficiaries in the United States
Authors: Simpson Timothy F. , Kheiri Babikir , Chadderdon Scott , Song Howard K. , Lantz Gurion , Cigarroa Joaquin , Zahr Firas , Golwala Harsh
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To evaluate transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) operator procedural volumes, and describe temporal and geographic trends.

Background

TAVR is the standard of care for most patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Despite an association between operator procedural volume and outcomes, nationwide TAVR operator volumes have been incompletely described.

Methods

We queried the National Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Database for transfemoral TAVRs from 2014 to 2018. Annual operator volume, state and regional volumes, and longitudinal trends were extracted and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

In 2018, the mean annual operator volume was 23.6 TAVRs. The highest 1% of operators by volume performed 7.6% of total TAVR procedures in the United States, while 35.7% of operators performed 10 or fewer TAVRs per year. From 2014 to 2018, there was a 53.9% annualized increase in TAVRs, and the mean annual volume per operator grew from 12.5 to 23.6. There was more than five‐fold variability in the density of operators (range 0.35–1.79 operators per 100,000 population) and mean operator volume by state (range 14.2–52.4 TAVRs per operator).

Conclusions

In this nationally representative study of operators performing transfemoral TAVRs among Medicare patients, we found the mean annual volume of TAVR in 2018 to be 23.6 and has increased since 2014. There was considerable variability in operator density and procedural volumes, with a significant proportion of operators performing 10 or fewer TAVRs per year. Ambiguity remains in regard to the optimal balance of procedural requirements to sustain high efficacy outcomes and ensure critical access to TAVR therapies.
Identification of two variants in AGRN and RPL3L genes in a patient with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia suggesting new candidate disease genes and digenic inheritance
Authors: Jaouadi Hager , Chabrak Sonia , Lahbib Saida , Abdelhak Sonia , Zaffran Stéphane
Published: February 2022

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is an arrhythmogenic syndrome characterized by life‐threatening arrhythmias, a normal resting electrocardiogram and the absence of overt structural heart abnormalities. Mutations in RyR2 gene account for the large part of CPVT cases. Less frequently, mutations in CASQ2 gene have been linked to the recessive form of the disease. Overall, approximately 35% of CPVT patients remain without a genetic etiology implying that other genes might be found causative of the disease. Here, we present a 6‐year‐old boy born to first‐degree related parents, with a typical phenotype of CPVT and a family history of sudden cardiac death of his brother at 7 years. A trio‐based whole exome sequencing was performed, and we identified a homozygous variant in AGRN gene and a heterozygous variant in RPL3L gene. We hypothesized that the presence of the homozygous variant in AGRN accounts for the CPVT phenotype in this family and the heterozygous variant in RPL3L gene may act as a modifier gene. Further studies are needed to determine the role of these genes in CPVT.
Storming the castle: A case report of multi‐system dysregulation in a child with Castleman disease
Authors: DeMarsh Samantha J. , Kendel Nicole E. , Bacha Christine , Ardoin Stacy P. , Kahwash Samir , Rose Melissa J.
Published: February 2022

Castleman disease is a non‐clonal, lymphoproliferative disorder rarely seen in children. Presented is a 12‐year‐old male with progressive abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever. Diagnostic testing revealed multi‐organ system involvement and the diagnosis was ultimately made with tissue biopsy. Marked disease regression occurred after high‐dose steroids and continued interleukin‐6 inhibition.
Boosting Hydrogen Evolution at Visible Light Wavelengths by Using a Photocathode with Modal Strong Coupling between Plasmons and a Fabry‐Pérot Nanocavity
Authors: Oshikiri Tomoya , Jo Haruki , Shi Xu , Misawa Hiroaki
Published: February 2022

Hot‐hole injection from plasmonic metal nanoparticles to the valence band of p‐type semiconductors and reduction by hot electrons should be improved for efficient and tuneable reduction to obtain beneficial chemical compounds. We employed the concept of modal strong coupling between plasmons and a Fabry‐Pérot (FP) nanocavity to enhance the hot‐hole injection efficiency. We fabricated a photocathode composed of gold nanoparticles (Au−NPs), p‐type nickel oxide (NiO), and a platinum film (Pt film) (ANP). The ANP structure absorbs visible light over a broad wavelength range from 500 nm to 850 nm via hybrid modes based on the modal strong coupling between the plasmons of Au−NPs and the FP nanocavity of NiO on a Pt film. All wavelength regions of the hybrid modes of the modal strong coupling system promoted hot‐hole injection from the Au−NPs to NiO and proton/water reduction by hot electrons. The incident photon‐to‐current efficiency based on H2 evolution through water/proton reduction by hot electrons reached 0.2 % at 650 nm and 0.04 % at 800 nm.
Biomechanical response of human rib cage to cardiopulmonary resuscitation maneuvers: Effects of the compression location
Authors: Suazo Mario , Herrero Joan , Fortuny Gerard , Puigjaner Dolors , López Josep M.
Published: February 2022

The biomechanical response of a human rib cage to cardiopulmonary resuscitation maneuvers was investigated by means of finite element simulations. We analyzed the effect of the location where the force was applied on the achieved compression depths and stress levels experienced by the breastbone and ribs. For compression locations on the breastbone, a caudal shift of the application area toward the breastbone tip resulted in a 17% reduction of the force required to achieve a target 5 cm compression depth. We found that the use of compression regions located on the costal cartilages would involve higher risk of rib fractures.
Spatial and Electronic Structures of BeB8 and MgB8: How far Does the Analogy Go?
Authors: Đorđević Slađana , Radenković Slavko
Published: February 2022

Doping boron clusters with Be and its heavier alkaline‐earth congener, Mg, usually leads to complexes of different geometry and electronic structure. In this work we show that both neutral BeB8 and MgB8 exhibit a singlet ground state umbrella‐like form. In addition, the stability, electronic structure, and aromaticity of the target molecules are compared. The magnetically induced current densities show that BeB8 and MgB8 are double aromatic systems: π and σ electrons induce strong diatropic currents. The current densities induced in the studied complexes are of very similar intensity, but with a different spatial distribution. The differences in the current density patterns observed for BeB8 and MgB8 arise from the very nature of the bonding interactions between the M atom and B8 fragment, as demonstrated through the energy decomposition analysis.
A Biosourced Epoxy Resin for Adhesive Thermoset Applications
Authors: Moreira Vitor B. , Alemán Carlos , Rintjema Jeroen , Bravo Fernando , Kleij Arjan W. , Armelin Elaine
Published: February 2022

Biobased epoxy‐derived raw materials will be essential for future coating and adhesive designs in industry. Here, a facile approach is reported towards the incorporation of limonene into an epoxy‐functionalized polycarbonate and its crosslinking with a polyamine curing agent to obtain a thermoset material. For the first time, a solvent‐borne adhesive with excellent film‐forming, mechanical and adhesion strength properties is described.
Synthesis and Structure Confirmation of Selagibenzophenone C
Authors: Kunák Dominik , Mateus Miguel , Rycek Lukas
Published: February 2022

We report the first total synthesis of natural diarylbenzophenone selagibenzophenone C recently isolated from a plant species Selaginella tamariscina, traditionally used in folklore medicines. The framework of the natural compound is assembled via Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling and the addition of organometallic species. Following some ambiguities in the assignment of the structures for some of the natural products belonging to this compound class, the spectral data reported for the isolated selagibenzophenone C are carefully compared to the data of the synthetic product, and the structure of the natural product is confirmed.
Upgrading of bio‐separation and bioanalysis using synthetic polymers: Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), cryogels, stimuli‐responsive polymers
Authors: Aslıyüce Sevgi , Idil Neslihan , Mattiasson Bo
Published: February 2022

Bio‐separation plays a crucial role in many areas. Different polymers are suitable for bio‐separation and are useful for applications in applications in both science and technology. Besides biopolymers, there are a broad spectrum of synthetic polymers with tailor‐made properties. The synthetic polymers are characterized by their charges, solubility, hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, sensitivity to environmental conditions and stability. Furthermore, ongoing developments are of great interest on biodegradable polymers for the treatment of diseases. Smart polymers have gained great attention due to their unique characteristics especially emphasizing simultaneously changing their chemical and physical property upon exposure to changes in environmental conditions. In this review, methodologies applied in bio‐separation using synthetic polymers are discussed and efficient candidates are focused for the construction of synthetic polymers.
Beyond diagnosis: Prepubescent gender expansive children on the margins of clinical measures
Authors: Berg Dianne , Tellawi Ghazel , Anderson Sloan Okrey , Nic Rider G.
Published: February 2022

Few clinical measures are available for use with transgender and gender‐expansive (TGE) prepubescent children. This qualitative study includes 65 TGE children, ages 4–12, with 21 identifying as boys, 34 as girls, and 10 as nonbinary. Race/ethnicity reported by parents: 72.3% White, 7.7% Asian, 6.2% Hispanic/Latinx, 4.6% multiple races, 3.1% Black/African American, 1.5% American Indian or Alaskan Native, and 4.6% were missing race/ethnicity data. Children's responses to clinical measures identified these themes: dysphoria, identity statements, gender statements, contentment with self, and anticipatory statements. Findings highlight the need to develop clinical measures that center children's voices, are inclusive of all gender identities, and go beyond diagnostic criteria to better reflect and understand the meaning children make of gender‐related experiences.
α‐Mangostin protects lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated nucleus pulposus cells against NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated apoptosis via the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Chen Jingyang , Bian Meiru , Pan Lingxiao , Yang Hanshi
Published: February 2022

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common and chronic inflammatory disorder. α‐Mangostin exhibits a novel biological function against inflammation in various inflammatory diseases. Here, we aimed to explore the role of α‐mangostin in IDD using an in vitro cell model. Human nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammatory injury. Cell viability of NPCs was determined by CCK‐8 assay. ELISA was performed to examine the production of interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18. Apoptotic cell death in NPCs was detected by TUNEL staining. The expression levels of apoptotic‐associated proteins were detected by western blotting. Nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) activation was examined by determining the expression levels of p‐p65, p65, and nuclear p65. Results showed that treatment with α‐mangostin improved the viability of LPS‐treated NPCs. α‐Mangostin treatment also inhibited the LPS‐induced increase in expression levels of NLRP3, ASC and pro‐caspase‐1, as well as the production of IL‐1β and IL‐18 in NPCs. Moreover, treatment with α‐mangostin or NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950) significantly decreased apoptotic cell death in NPCs, as compared with treatment with LPS. In addition, the expression levels of cleaved caspase‐3 and Bax were decreased, while Bcl‐2 expression was increased in α‐mangostin‐ or MCC950‐treated NPCs. Treatment with α‐mangostin also suppressed LPS‐induced increase of p‐p65/p65 and nuclear p65 levels. Moreover, inhibition of NF‐κB by PDTC aggravated the inhibitory effects of α‐mangostin on NLRP3 inflammasome activation and apoptosis in LPS‐induced NPCs. These findings suggested that α‐mangostin exerted a protective effect on NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated apoptosis in LPS‐induced NPCs through regulating NF‐κB signaling.
Enhanced antibacterial properties on superhydrophobic micro‐nano structured titanium surface
Authors: Manivasagam Vignesh K. , Perumal Gopinath , Arora Harpreet Singh , Popat Ketul C.
Published: February 2022

Micro/nano scale surface modifications of titanium based orthopedic and cardiovascular implants has shown to augment biocompatibility. However, bacterial infection remains a serious concern for implant failure, aggravated by increasing antibiotic resistance and over usage of antibiotics. Bacteria cell adhesion on implant surface leads to colonization and biofilm formation resulting in morbidity and mortality. Hence, there is a need to develop new implant surfaces with high antibacterial properties. Recent developments have shown that superhydrophobic surfaces prevent protein and bacteria cell adhesion. In this study, a thermochemical treatment was used modify the surface properties for high efficacy antibacterial activity on titanium surface. The modification led to a micro‐nano surface topography and upon modification with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and silane the surfaces were superhydrophilic and superhydrophobic, respectively. The modified surfaces were characterized for morphology, wettability, chemistry, corrosion resistance and surface charge. The antibacterial capability was characterized with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli by evaluating the bacteria cell inhibition, adhesion kinetics, and biofilm formation. The results indicated that the superhydrophobic micro‐nano structured titanium surface reduced bacteria cell adhesion significantly (>90%) and prevented biofilm formation compared to the unmodified titanium surface after 24 h of incubation.
In what ways do emerging adults with substance use problems experience their communities as influencing their personal recovery processes?
Authors: Bahl Nina Kavita Heggen , Øversveen Emil , Brodahl Morten , Nafstad Hilde E. , Blakar Rolv M. , Ness Ottar , Landheim Anne S. , Tømmervik Kristin
Published: February 2022

Applying the multiple psychological sense of community concept (MPSOC), this study explored how emerging adults with substance use problems experience the influences of various senses of community and communities on their personal recovery processes. Semi‐structured interviews with 21 emerging adults from different urban contexts in Norway were analysed using a collaborative, seven‐step, deductive, and reflexive thematic approach. MPSOC is shown to be a key concept for achieving a broad, in‐depth understanding of emerging adults' senses of community and personal experiences of community influences on recovery processes from substance use. Positive and negative senses of community in geographical, relational, substance use‐related and ideal communities influence the potentials and challenges in emerging adults' recovery processes. Supportive and motivating community relationships, meaningful activities with peers, and distance from recovery‐impeding communities were identified as important recovery components. To promote recovery and prevent substance use in emerging adults, community approaches and tools applied in substance use treatment have to take into account and utilise multidimensional and age group‐specific aspects of belonging.
Vaccination provides protection from respiratory deterioration and death among hospitalized COVID‐19 patients: Differences between vector and mRNA vaccines
Authors: Busic Nikolina , Lucijanic Tomo , Barsic Bruno , Luksic Ivica , Busic Iva , Kurdija Goran , Barbic Ljubo , Kunstek Sanja , Jelic Tea , Lucijanic Marko
Published: February 2022

Outcomes of 109 hospitalized COVID‐19 patients who received at least one vaccine dose 14 or more days prior the disease onset were retrospectively compared to control cohort of 109 age, sex, and Charlson comorbidity index‐matched patients chosen among 2990 total hospitalized patients in our tertiary‐level institution in a period from January to June 2021. Among 109 vaccinated patients, 84 patients were partially and 25 fully vaccinated. Vaccinated patients experienced significantly lower 30 days mortality (30% vs. 49%; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.56 [0.37–0.85]; p = 0.008), less frequently required high flow oxygen therapy (17% vs. 34%; HR: 0.45 [0.26–0.76]; p = 0.005), and mechanical ventilation (8% vs. 18%; HR: 0.41 [0.20–0.88]; p = 0.027) in comparison to the matched cohort of unvaccinated patients. More favorable survival was observed in patients receiving vector in comparison to messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine types in unadjusted analysis (30 days mortality 18% vs. 40%; HR: 0.45 [0.25–0.79]; p = 0.034). In the multivariable Cox regression analysis model both mRNA (HR: 0.59 [0.36–0.98]; p = 0.041) and vector vaccine types (HR: 0.30 [0.15–0.60]; p < 0.001) were associated with improved survival in comparison to unvaccinated patients, independently of age (HR: 1.03 [1.01–1.06]; p = 0.011), male sex (HR: 1.78 [1.14–2.76]; p = 0.010), severity of illness (HR: 2.06 [1.36–3.10]; p < 0.001) and functional status on admission (HR: 1.42 [1.07–1.85]; p = 0.013).
Comprehensive assessment of extraction methods for plant tissue samples for determining sodium and potassium via flame photometer and chloride via automated flow analysis#
Authors: Asch Julia , Johnson Kristian , Mondal Shimul , Asch Folkard
Published: February 2022

Background and aims

Determination of sodium (Na), potassium (K), and chloride (Cl) content in plant tissue is required for research related to salinity resistance in plants. Standard methods are available to extract these elements from dried plant material, but these methods are often costly, relatively dangerous, or time consuming. Many authors modify extraction methods substantially without proof of comparability across methods.

Methods

Here, dried tissues of two varieties of rice and three varieties of sweet potato subjected to salt stress were extracted for Na and K using six different extraction methods (1–6) and for Cl using three Cl‐free extraction methods (2, 4, 5) for Cl: (1) the VDLUFA standard method, consisting of ashing, and heat extraction in hydrochloric acid (HCl), (2) hot water pressure extraction via autoclave, (3) extraction with 1 M HCl overnight, (4) hot water extraction at 90°C for 1 h, (5) acetic acid extraction in hot 1 M acetic acid for 2 h, and (6) extraction with a microwave using nitric acid. Na and K were determined via flame photometer and Cl via automated flow analysis.

Results

Na and K concentrations varied little among different extraction methods as compared to the VDLUFA standard method, and for Cl, all extractions resulted in similar tissue Cl concentrations.

Conclusions

Ultimately, the choice of extraction method depends on the instrumentation and lab equipment necessary, available budget, the available amount of sample, and time constraints which should be decided according to the experiment. For reasons of comparability among publications, methods applied should be clearly described since results vary depending on the method chosen.
Impact of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus polymerase chain reaction nasal swabs on vancomycin utilisation in patients admitted to the intensive care unit with respiratory infections
Authors: Cho Lance , Gilbert Gregory E. , Zipperlen Carl , Danaher Keri , Glatt Aaron E.
Published: February 2022

Background

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) nasal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening has a negative predictive value as high as 96% for pneumonia. Using nasal PCR, care providers can detect the presence or absence of MRSA earlier and potentially decrease the duration of vancomycin therapy in patients with negative results.

Aims

The primary objective was to assess the impact of MRSA nasal PCR on vancomycin length of therapy in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with respiratory infections.

Methods

This was a retrospective, quasi‐experimental, uncontrolled before—after study, comparing patients receiving screening versus those who did not. Patients over the age of 18, admitted to ICU with respiratory infections who received at least one dose of vancomycin were included in this study. This investigation received exemption from the South Nassau Communities Hospital and Western Institutional Review Board (reference number SNCH‐E14) and was conducted in accordance with the tenets espoused in the Declaration of Helsinki.

Results

A total of 77 patients, 22 in the study group and 55 in the comparator group were included in the analysis. There was a reduction in median length of vancomycin therapy in the MRSA PCR group compared to the unscreened group (1.7 days vs. 6 days, IQR: 4.15 vs. 4.8, p < 0.001). There was a reduction in median vancomycin levels performed (3 levels vs. 1 level, p = 0.619).

Conclusions

The use of nasal PCR screening for MRSA was associated with a reduction in median vancomycin length of therapy for patients admitted to the ICU with respiratory infections.
Associations between changes in somatic and psychiatric symptoms and disability alterations in recent‐era U.S. veterans
Authors: Bernstein John P. K. , Stumps Anna , Fortenbaugh Francesca , Fonda Jennifer R. , McGlinchey Regina E. , Milberg William P. , Fortier Catherine B. , Esterman Michael , Amick Melissa , DeGutis Joseph
Published: February 2022

Cross‐sectional work suggests that deployment‐related posttraumatic sequelae are associated with increased disability in U.S. veterans deployed following the September 11, 2001 (9/11), terrorist attacks. However, few studies have examined the psychiatric and somatic variables associated with changes in functional disability over time. A total of 237 post‐9/11 veterans completed comprehensive assessments of psychiatric and cognitive functioning, as well as a disability questionnaire, at baseline and 2‐year follow‐up. At baseline, higher levels of PTSD, depressive, and pain‐related symptoms were associated with baseline global functional disability, semipartial r2 = .036–.044. Changes in symptoms of PTSD, depression, pain, and sleep, but not anxiety or alcohol use, were independently associated with changes in functional disability, semipartial r2 = .017–.068. Baseline symptoms of these conditions were unrelated to changes in disability, and cognitive performance was unrelated to disability at any assessment point. Together, this suggests that changes in psychiatric and somatic symptoms are tightly linked with changes in functional disability and should be frequently monitored, and even subclinical symptoms may be a target of intervention.
Silent but deadly: Political corruption and voluntary ESG disclosure in the United States
Authors: Hoang Khanh
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates the impacts of political corruption and carbon risk on corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosure. As there has not been a law to enforce ESG disclosure in the United States, ESG disclosure remains on a voluntary basis regardless of the growing attention from market participants and society. Using a sample of US listed firms and state‐level corruption data during 2005–2018, the study shows that political corruption affects voluntary ESG disclosure. The empirical results reveal that heavy‐polluter firms benefit from local corruption and less likely to voluntarily disclose their ESG performance compared to their counterparts.
Skin cancer, including related pathways and therapy and the role of luteolin derivatives as potential therapeutics
Authors: Juszczak Aleksandra M. , Wöelfle Ute , Končić Marijana Zovko , Tomczyk Michał
Published: February 2022

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is the fastest growing and the most aggressive form of skin cancer that is diagnosed. However, its incidence is relatively scarce compared to the highest mortality rate of all skin cancers. The much more common skin cancers include nonmelanoma malignant skin cancers. Moreover, over the past several decades, the frequency of all skin cancers has increased much more dynamically than that of almost any other type of cancer. Among the available therapeutic options for skin cancers, chemotherapy used immediately after the surgical intervention has been an essential element. Unfortunately, the main problem with conventional chemopreventive regimens involves the lack of response to treatment and the associated side effects. Hence, there is a need for much more effective anticancer drugs. Correspondingly, the targeted alternatives have involved phytochemicals, which are safer chemotherapeutic agents and exhibit competitive anticancer activity with high therapeutic efficacy. Among polyphenolic compounds, some flavonoids and their derivatives, which are mostly found in medicinal plants, have been demonstrated to influence the modulation of signaling pathways at each stage of the carcinogenesis process, which is also important in the context of skin cancers. Hence, this review focuses on an exhaustive overview of the therapeutic effects of luteolin and its derivatives in the treatment and prevention of skin cancers. The bioavailability and structure–activity relationships of luteolin derivatives are also discussed. This review is the first such complete account of all of the scientific reports concerning this particular group of natural compounds that target a specific area of neoplastic diseases.
Graded damage in quasi‐brittle solids
Authors: Valoroso Nunziante , Stolz Claude
Published: February 2022

A novel approach to damage modeling for quasi‐brittle solids is presented relying upon a differential inclusion that is closely related to the one of implicit gradient models. The proposed formulation naturally fits in the so‐called nonlocal standard approach, whereby the framework of generalized standard materials is extended to include gradients of internal variables to account for the physics of the fracture phenomenon in a regularized sense, that is, via extended constitutive equations in which a length scale parameter brings to the macro level information about material microstructure. This concept is fully embodied into the present approach to quasi‐brittle fracture, whereby progressive damage occurs in layers of finite thickness where the gradient of damage is bounded and a fully damaged region is understood as a fracture with no ambiguity. Key to the effective implementation of the model are the choice of two constitutive functions and the implicit tracking of regions in a state of progressive damage via Lagrange multipliers acting on internal constraints. The ideas are developed for a general Cauchy continuum and representative numerical simulations are included that demonstrate the model capabilities.
Survival of pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma patients treated with doxorubicin, bleomycin, vincristine, etoposide, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide (ABVE‐PC) versus doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (ABVD) at a single institution
Authors: de Armas Sebastian , Huertas‐Ayala Carolina , Chan Randall Y. , Chi Yueh‐Yun , Huh Winston W. , Termuhlen Amanda , Gaynon Paul S. , Kovach Alexandra E. , Doan Andrew
Published: February 2022

Background

Adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine (ABVD), the de facto standard of care in adult‐onset Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), has not been directly compared to doxorubicin, bleomycin, vincristine, etoposide, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide (ABVE‐PC), a pediatric‐aimed regimen designed to reduce late effects. We aimed to describe the single‐institution experience of using both regimens in patients with pediatric HL.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study evaluated a total of 224 patients diagnosed with HL between 1999 and 2018 at Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), of which 93 patients were eligible having received ABVD (n = 46) or ABVE‐PC (n = 47) chemotherapy as their initial treatment. Descriptive analyses were performed using the Student's t‐test or Fisher's exact test. Survival analysis used the Kaplan–Meier method. Events included death, relapse, and secondary malignancy. We also describe the use of radiation therapy, pulmonary toxicity, and cardiomyopathy determined by shortening fraction <29%. Analyses followed an intention‐to‐treat principle.

Results

There was no difference in baseline characteristics between the patients receiving ABVE‐PC or ABVD in regard for stage, risk group, or prognostic variables, such as the presence or absence of “B” symptoms, bulky disease, and extra‐nodal involvement. A greater proportion of patients treated with ABVE‐PC received consolidating external beam radiation treatment (XRT) either by randomization or by response compared to ABVD (59.6% vs. 32.6%, respectively, p = .01). While not statistically significant, response to therapy, assessed by positron emission tomography/computerized tomography (PET/CT) where available, mirrored the use for radiation (rapid response 58.3% vs. 90.0%, n = 34, p = .11). The median dose of anthracycline (doxorubicin) was the same in patients receiving ABVE‐PC versus ABVD (200 vs. 200 mg/m2, interquartile range 200–250 vs. 200–300 mg/m2, p = .002). There was no difference in event‐free survival (p = .63) or overall survival (p = .37) with a median follow‐up length of 3.9 years.

Conclusions

ABVD and ABVE‐PC achieved similar survival outcomes in our single‐institution cohort.
Designing supramolecular polymers with nucleation and growth processes
Authors: Bruckner Eric P , Stupp Samuel I
Published: February 2022

The self‐assembly of small molecules into supramolecular polymers can be analogous to the formation of classical solid‐state crystals depending on the mechanism of polymerization. Taking inspiration from the field of materials science, complex supramolecular polymer nanostructures can be formed by carefully controlling nucleation and growth processes. Exploration of the energy landscapes in supramolecular polymers can also lead to the discovery of polymorphs where a single monomer can self‐assemble into different supramolecular polymers with distinct molecular packing arrangements. This mini‐review focuses on recent developments where the manipulation of nucleation and growth processes were used to develop novel supramolecular copolymers and explore polymorphism in supramolecular materials, highlighting examples of such systems composed of small organic molecules and peptides. © 2022 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Effects of stochastic resonance stimulation on manual function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy: A pilot clinical trial
Authors: Lynn Jessica , Wolf Allison , Bridges Travis , Pottanat Zachary , Spivey Suzanne , Rolin Olivier
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of stochastic resonance stimulation (SRS) on manual abilities in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Design

This pilot study is a randomized, sham‐controlled, one‐period, crossover trial.

Setting

A neuroscience clinic with specialty therapy programs at an urban, university‐based children's hospital.

Participants

Sixteen children ages 3 to 16 years who were diagnosed with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and had hand Manual Abilities Classification scale score of I to III with sufficient cognitive abilities to follow instructions.

Interventions

Children donned wrist and arm bands that delivered SRS via embedded piezoelectric actuators in two randomly assigned conditions: sham (devices powered off) and subthreshold stimulation (SBT‐SRS). Following the randomized protocol, a subset of participants also completed an open‐label, above‐threshold stimulation (AT‐SRS) condition. Children carried out the same uni‐manual and bimanual tasks during the randomized and open‐label protocols; all data were collected in a single session.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Box and Blocks (B&B) test, a uni‐manual function test, and the Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation (SHUEE). The SHUEE was video recorded and scored by two raters who were blinded to the experimental condition.

Results

Thirteen children completed the B&B task and 14 children completed the SHUEE. Children in the SBT‐SRS condition relative to sham condition moved an average of 1.8 more blocks in 1 minute (p = .08); scored an average of 3 points higher on SHUEE spontaneous functional analysis (p < .002); and scored an average of 2.7 points higher on SHUEE dynamic positional analysis (p = .20). In the open‐label protocol, children in the AT‐SRS condition relative to sham moved 3.9 more blocks than in the sham condition (n = 8, p < .001); scored an average of 4.5 points higher on SHUEE spontaneous functional analysis (n = 6, p = .08); and scored an average of 10.5 points higher on SHUEE dynamic positional analysis (n = 6, p = .01).

Conclusion(s)

In this pilot study, we found preliminary evidence that children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy demonstrated improved uni‐manual abilities and increased function of the impaired hand on bimanual tasks when receiving a single session of SBT‐SRS. Preliminary evidence also suggests that some children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy may improve more when receiving a single session of AT‐SRS. Future research using larger, controlled studies should evaluate the optimal intensity, duration, and long‐term effect of SRS for improving impaired manual abilities.