bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What protein kinases are crucial for acantholysis and blister formation in pemphigus vulgaris? A systematic review
Authors: Brescacin Adriano , Baig Zunaira , Bhinder Jaspreet , Lin Sen , Brar Lovejot , Cirillo Nicola
Published: May 2022

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a potentially fatal autoimmune blistering disease characterized by cell–cell detachment (or acantholysis) and blister formation. While the signaling mechanisms that associate with skin/mucosal blistering are being elucidated, specific treatment strategies targeting PV‐specific pathomechanisms, particularly kinase signaling, have yet to be established. Hence, the aim of this review was to systematically evaluate molecules in the class of kinases that are essential for acantholysis and blister formation and are therefore candidates for targeted therapy. English articles from PubMed and Scopus databases were searched, and included in vitro, in vivo, and human studies that investigated the role of kinases in PV. We selected studies, extracted data and assessed risk of bias in duplicates and the results were reported according to the methodology outlined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA). The risk of bias assessment was performed on in vivo studies utilizing SYRCLE's risk of bias tool. Thirty‐five studies were included that satisfied the pathogenicity criterion of kinases in PV, the vast majority being experimental models that used PV sera (n = 13) and PV‐IgG (n = 22). Inhibition of kinase activity (p38MAPK, PKC, TK, c‐Src, EGFR, ERK, mTOR, BTK, and CDK2) was achieved mostly by pharmacological means. Overall, we found substantial evidence that kinase inhibition reduced PV‐associated phosphorylation events and keratinocyte disassociation, prevented acantholysis, and blocked blister formation. However, the scarce adherence to standardized reporting systems and the experimental protocols/models used did limit the internal and external validity of these studies. In summary, this systematic review highlighted the pathogenic intracellular events mediated by kinases in PV acantholysis and presented kinase signaling as a promising avenue for translational research. In particular, the molecules identified and discussed in this study represent potential candidates for the development of mechanism‐based interventions in PV.
Use of a chatbot to increase uptake of cascade genetic testing
Authors: Schmidlen Tara , Jones Claire L. , Campbell‐Salome Gemme , McCormick Cara Z. , Vanenkevort Erin , Sturm Amy C.
Published: May 2022

Successful proband‐mediated family communication and subsequent cascade genetic testing uptake requires interventions that present information clearly, in sufficient detail, and with medical authority. To facilitate family communication for patients receiving clinically actionable results via the MyCode® Community Health Initiative, a Family Sharing Tool (FST) and a cascade chatbot were developed. FST is an electronic mechanism allowing patients to share genetic test results with relatives via chatbot. The cascade chatbot describes the proband's result, associated disease risks, and recommended management and captures whether the user is a blood relative or caregiver, sex, and relationship to the proband. FST and cascade chatbot uptake among MyCode® probands and relatives was tracked from August 2018 through February 2020. Cascade genetic testing uptake was collected from testing laboratories as number of cascades per proband. Fifty‐eight percent (316/543) of probands consented to FST; 42% (227/543) declined. Receipt preferences were patient electronic health record (EHR) portal (52%), email (29%), and text (19%). Patient EHR portal users (p < 0.001) and younger patients were more likely to consent (p < 0.001). FST was deployed to 308 probands. Fifty‐nine percent (183/308) opened; of those, 56% (102/183) used FST to send a cascade chatbot to relatives. These 102 probands shared a cascade chatbot with 377 relatives. Sixty‐two percent (235/377) of relatives opened; of these, 69% (161/235) started, and of these, 57% (92/161) completed the cascade chatbot. Cascade genetic testing uptake was significantly greater among relatives of probands who consented to the FST (M = 2.34 cascades, SD = 2.10) than relatives of probands who declined (M = 1.40 cascades, SD = 0.82, p < 0.001). Proband age was not a significant predictor of cascade genetic testing uptake. Further work is needed to better understand factors impacting proband use of FST and relative use of cascade chatbots.
2022 update on the scientific premise and clinical trials for IL-15 agonists as cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Peng Yingjun , Fu Shengyu , Zhao Qi
Published: May 2022

Diverse cytokines and their receptors on immune cells constitute a highly complex network in the immune system. Some therapeutic cytokines and their derivatives have been approved for cancer treatment. IL-15 is an immune-regulating cytokine with multiple functions, among which the function of activating the immunity of cancer patients has great potential in cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we introduce the functions of IL-15 and discuss its role in regulating the immune system in different immune cells. Meanwhile, we will address the applications of IL-15 agonists in cancer immunotherapy and provide prospects for the next generation of therapeutic designs. Although many challenges remain, IL-15 agonists offer a new therapeutic option in the future direction of cancer immunotherapy.
Receptor binding domain proteins of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants produced inNicotiana benthamianaelicit neutralizing antibodies against variants of concern
Authors: Khorattanakulchai Narach , Manopwisedjaroen Suwimon , Rattanapisit Kaewta , Panapitakkul Chalisa , Kemthong Taratorn , Suttisan Nutchanat , Srisutthisamphan Kanjana , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Thitithanyanont Arunee , Jongkaewwattana Anan , Shanmugaraj Balamurugan , Phoolcharoen Waranyoo
Published: May 2022

The constantly emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) variants of concerns (VOCs) with mutations in the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) spread rapidly and has become a severe public health problem worldwide. Effective vaccines and optimized booster vaccination strategies are thus highly required. Here, the gene encoding six different RBD (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Kappa, Delta, and Epsilon variants) along with the Fc fragment of human IgG1 (RBD‐Fc) was cloned into plant expression vector and produced inNicotiana benthamianaby transient expression. Further, the immunogenicity of plant‐produced variant RBD‐Fc fusion proteins were tested in cynomolgus monkeys. Each group of cynomolgus monkeys was immunized three times intramuscularly with variant RBD‐Fc vaccines at Day 0, 21, 42, and neutralizing antibody responses were evaluated against ancestral (Wuhan), Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta variants. The results showed that three doses of the RBD‐Fc vaccine significantly enhanced the immune response against all tested SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. In particular, the vaccines based on Delta and Epsilon mutant RBD elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies against ancestral (Wuhan), Alpha, and Delta SARS‐CoV‐2 variants whereas Beta and Gamma RBD‐Fc vaccines elicit neutralizing antibodies against their respective SARS‐CoV‐2 strains. The Delta and Epsilon RBD‐Fc based vaccines displayed cross‐reactive immunogenicity and might be applied as a booster vaccine to induce broadly neutralizing antibodies. These proof‐of‐concept results will be helpful for the development of plant‐derived RBD‐Fc‐based vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 and its variants.
Surface wind over Europe: Data and variability
Authors: Rojas‐Labanda Cristina , González‐Rouco Fidel , García‐Bustamante Elena , Navarro Jorge , Lucio‐Eceiza Etor E. , Van der Schrier Gerard , Kaspar Frank
Published: May 2022

This work improves the characterization and knowledge of the surface wind climatology over Europe with the development of an observational database with unprecedented quality control (QC), the European Surface Wind Observational database (EuSWiO). EuSWiO includes more than 3,829 stations with sub‐daily resolution for wind speed and direction, with a number of sites spanning the period of 1880–2017, a few hundred time series starting in the 1930s and relatively good spatial coverage since the 1970s. The creation of EuSWiO entails the merging of eight different data sets and its submission to a common QC. About 5% of the total observations were flagged, correcting a great part of the extreme and unrealistic values, which have a discernible impact on the statistics of the database. The daily wind variability was characterized by means of a classification technique, identifying 11 independent subregions with distinct temporal wind variability over the 2000–2015 period. Significant decreases in the wind speed during this period are found in five regions, whereas two regions show increases. Most regions allow for extending the analysis to earlier decades. Caution in interpreting long‐term trends is needed as wind speed data have not been homogenized. Nevertheless, decreases in the wind speed since the 1980s can be noticed in most of the regions. This work contributes to a deeper understanding of the temporal and spatial surface wind variability in Europe. It will allow from meteorological to climate and climate change studies, including potential applications to the analyses of extreme events, wind power assessments or the evaluation of reanalysis or model‐data comparison exercises at continental scales.
Type 2 Diabetes mellitus treatment intensification and deintensification in primary care: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wong Jay An , Young Isabel , Sim Ruth , Kua Kok Pim , Lee Shaun Wen Huey
Published: May 2022

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing worldwide, presenting a considerable clinical and public health burden. Existing evidence demonstrates that optimisation of diabetes treatment regimens can reduce the risk of morbidity and disability. This retrospective observational cohort study aimed to identify factors associated with treatment intensification and deintensification in people with type 2 diabetes and evaluate effects of the treatment approaches on clinical outcomes. The cohort included 183 patients enrolled in a primary care Diabetes Medication Therapy Adherence Clinic program in Malaysia between 1 January 2016 and 31 March 2020. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the clinical or socio‐demographic characteristics associated with treatment intensification or deintensification. A total of 175 patients were included in the final analysis. Eighty‐seven patients (49.7%) had their medicine regimens changed, of which 27.4% (n = 48) of patients had their medicines intensified, 8.6% (n = 15) of patients had their medicines deintensified, and 13.7% (n = 24) of patients had their medicines intensified and deintensified. In multivariable analyses, treatment intensification was associated with higher knowledge of medicine scores. No factors were significantly associated with treatment deintensification. Patients who had their medicines intensified and deintensified had a lower post follow‐up target glycated haemoglobin level, fasting plasma glucose, and random blood glucose values compared to the baseline. The study found variability in the frequency of intensification or deintensification of diabetes medicine regimens and the factors associated with it. Treatment deintensification was relatively uncommon. To prevent overtreatment, further investigations are warranted to understand the impact of treatment deintensification on patients who were already receiving intensive therapy for type 2 diabetes.
Larger trees may support larger Indiana bat maternity colonies in a dynamic landscape
Authors: Cable Ashleigh B. , Hohoff Tara C. , Deppe Jill L. , Taylor Steven J. , Davis Mark A.
Published: May 2022

Indiana bats (Myotis sodalis), federally listed as endangered, are of management concern in eastern North America. While researchers quantified the habitat affinities of the species throughout the range, few studies have occurred in regions where populations are at high risk for wind energy development and changing climes. Central Illinois, USA, is a dynamic landscape where forest area has been increasing in recent decades (on public and private land) because of changing farming practices and increased habitat protections. The increasing availability of large diameter trees, increasing forest biomass, and changing forest compositions have the potential to influence Indiana bat roost habitat preferences. We assessed Indiana bat maternity roost selection at the tree and forest plot scale to characterize patterns of use in this region from 2017–2018. We predicted that large trees on the landscape would support large colonies of Indiana bats. We located bats in multiple species of trees including elm (Ulmus spp.), cottonwood (Populus deltoides), and shagbark hickory (Carya ovata). We documented larger maternity colonies sharing roosts than in previous studies from the 1980s in the same region. We suggest managers and regulatory agencies monitor Indiana bats in dynamic landscapes such as those with changing forest composition and biomass.
Radar cross section statistical characteristics of stealth aircraft using the Weibull‐generalized gamma mixture model
Authors: Wang Jianbo , Ye Jianyu , Hua Guang
Published: May 2022

To analyze the electromagnetic scattering characteristics of stealth targets, radar cross section (RCS) values of the typical stealth aircraft model are evaluated by electromagnetic simulation. Based on the RCS electromagnetic simulation results, RCS statistical histograms of the stealth aircraft model are created. For describing the RCS statistical characteristics of stealth aircrafts, a Weibull‐generalized gamma mixture distribution model is proposed in this study. Some special cases of the Weibull‐generalized gamma mixture distribution model are summarized. Utilizing the nonlinear least squares technique, fitting results of the proposed and conventional RCS distribution models for the RCS statistical characteristics of typical stealth aircarfts are compared. Mean square error test and R‐square () test results show that the proposed distribution model obtains better fitting results than the conventional RCS distribution models, which indicates that the proposed distribution model is a more efficient RCS statistical model.
Discrimination of ginseng origin by using laser‐induced breakdown spectrum and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Zheng Kexin , Li Xiaolin , Song Shaozhong , Gao Xun
Published: May 2022

In this paper, the ginsengs from five ginseng origins are discriminated by using laser‐ induced breakdown spectrum (LIBS) combined with random forest‐ support vector machine (RF‐ SVM) and random forest‐ multilayer perception (RF‐ MLP) machine learning algorithms. The raw LIBS of ginseng is pretreated by using the wavelet threshold method, denoise the background information and normalazation to improve the signal‐ to‐ background ratio and the experimental reliability. The RF algorithm is used to select 10 characteristic spectral lines as the input vectors of the MLP and the SVM models to identify the ginseng orgin. The experimental results show that the discrimination accuracy rates of RF‐ MLP and RF‐ SVM models are 99.75% and 99.5%, respectively. The disrimination accuracy of ginseng origin used in the RF‐MLP machine algorithm model is slightly higher than that of the RF‐ SVM model, and then calculated the speed of the RF‐ MLP model is faster than the RF‐ SVM model. The results show that LIBS combined with machine algorithms are both promising rapid discrimination methods for ginseng origin.
Automated counting of cerebral penetrating vessels using optical coherence tomography images of a mouse brain in vivo
Authors: Choi Woo June , Li Yuandong , Wang Ruikang K. , Kim Jun Ki
Published: May 2022

Rationale and objectives

Penetrating blood vessels emanating from cortical surface vasculature and lying deep in the cortex are essential vascular conduits for the shuttling of blood from superficial pial vessels to the capillary beds in parenchyma for the nourishment of neuronal brain tissues. Locating and counting the penetrating vessels is beneficial for the quantification of a course of ischemia in blood occlusive events such as stroke. This paper seeks to demonstrate and validate a method for automated penetrating vessel counting that uses optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Materials and methods

This paper proposes an OCT method that effectively identifies and grades the cortical penetrating vessels in perfusion. The key to the proposed method is the harnessing of vascular features found in the penetrating vessels, which are distinctive from those of other vessels. In particular, with an increase in the light attenuation and flow turbulence, the contrast in the mean projection of the OCT datacube decreases, whereas that in the maximum projection of the Doppler frequency variance datacube increases. By multiplying the inversion of the former with the latter, its binary thresholding is sufficient to highlight the penetrating vessels and allows for their counting over the projection image.

Results

A computational method that leverages the decrease in mean OCT projection intensity and the increase in Doppler frequency variance at the penetrating vessel is developed. It successfully identifies and counts penetrating vessels with a high accuracy of over 87%. The penetrating vessel density is observed to be significantly reduced in the mouse model of focal ischemic stroke.

Conclusion

The OCT analysis is effective for counting penetrating blood vessels in mice brains and may be applied to the rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke in stroke models of small animals.
Longitudinal dysphagia assessment in adult patients with nephropathic cystinosis using the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile
Authors: Sullivan Stacey , Grant Natalie , Hammond Colleen , David William S. , Eichler Florian , Sadjadi Reza
Published: May 2022

Introduction/Aims

Nephropathic cystinosis is a lysosomal storage disorder with known myopathic features, including dysphagia. Evaluation of oropharyngeal swallowing physiology can be standardized using the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP), a validated assessment tool used to analyze and rate swallowing across 17 distinct physiologic domains. Our objective was to better characterize swallowing impairments in nephropathic cystinosis using MBSImP analysis.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 40 video fluoroscopic swallowing studies performed at two time points over 1 y in patients with nephropathic cystinosis with various levels of oral and pharyngeal stage dysphagia. Patients completed two self‐administered dysphagia outcome measures (the M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory [MDADI] and the 10‐item Eating Assessment Tool [EAT‐10]).

Results

We demonstrated oral stage and pharyngeal stage dysphagia across domains that impacted bolus control, transit, and clearance through both the oral cavity and pharyngeal lumen. Also captured were deficits related to onset and completeness of laryngeal closure that impact airway protection during swallow. There were significant correlations between pharyngeal total score and EAT‐10 (r = 0.5, p < 0.001) and between oral total score and EAT‐10 (r = 0.7, p < 0.001), MDADI‐e (r = −0.6, p < 0.001), MDADI‐p (r = −0.5, p < 0.001) and MDADI‐c (r = −0.6, p < 0.001). There were no differences in oral or pharyngeal total scores across the 1‐y time span.

Discussion

This study identifies oral and pharyngeal stage dysphagia as crucial to patients with nephropathic cystinosis and paves the path for future studies of treatment targets.
Intraneural ganglion cysts at the hip: The next celestial frontier
Authors: Spinner Robert J. , Desy Nicholas M. , Amrami Kimberly K.
Published: May 2022

See article on pages 339‐344 in this issue
Potential Implications of Excluding Live-Bottom Habitat from a Bottom-Trawl Survey in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Christiansen Heather M. , Tyler-Jedlund Amanda J. , Switzer Theodore S. , Keenan Sean F. , Stahl Scott D.
Published: May 2022

Data provided by the Southeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program (SEAMAP) shrimp/groundfish trawl survey have long been used in assessing diverse managed taxa, including several reef fishes; however, there are rising concerns over the impacts of trawling on live-bottom habitats. Using data collected from summer SEAMAP trawl surveys (2009–2016; N = 1,103), we examined how avoiding areas of live-bottom habitat might affect the survey's ability to assess interannual changes in abundance of managed reef fish taxa. Trawl samples at 48% of sampling sites contained <50 kg of sponge, and 12% of sampling sites contained at least 50 kg of sponge, while 40% of sites had zero sponge bycatch. Mean number of taxa, taxonomic richness, and taxonomic diversity were significantly higher as sponge bycatch increased, while the total number of individuals remained the same. To examine interannual variability of managed reef fish taxa, annual indices of relative abundance were calculated on different subsets of data (all data, data excluding sites with sponge bycatch ≥50 kg, and data excluding all sites with sponge bycatch). For Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus and pink shrimp Farfantepenaeus duorarum, indices and general trends were largely unaffected by excluding sites with sponge, but for most selected taxa (e.g., Gray Triggerfish Balistes capriscus and Red Grouper Epinephelus morio), overall trends were affected by excluding sites that contained sponge bycatch, and in some cases the frequency of occurrence did not meet the requirement to calculate an index of abundance (i.e., <5%) when sponge sites were excluded (e.g., Hogfish Lachnolaimus maximus). Efforts to mitigate survey interactions with live-bottom habitats will likely alter the utility of survey data and the ability to assess managed species, so careful consideration is needed to evaluate any trade-offs between the benefits of the trawl survey for fishery assessments and the benefits of protecting the habitat.
Controllable synthesis of silver nanowires via an organic cation‐mediated polyol method and their application as transparent electrode for touch screen
Authors: Ye Huangqing , Zhuang Guisheng , Pan Yingying , Wang Haibo , Li Yanlin , Lin Yishan , Wang Yu , Zeng Xiping
Published: May 2022

As an organic cation, quaternary ammonium salt was introduced as a control agent to synthesize silver nanowires. The important influence of quaternary ammonium salt on the preparation of silver nanowires was seriously investigated by varying the length of carbon chain and its amount. Results showed that using quaternary ammonium salt as the control agent can successfully control the growth of silver nanowires, of which the diameters ranging from 35.06 to 46.60 nm. The diameters of the as‐prepared silver nanowires tended to be smaller with a longer carbon chain. This work provides a new aspect for controllable preparation of silver nanowires. Furthermore, the as‐prepared silver nanowires were used to prepare transparent electrodes. They exhibited good optical performance with 95.6% transmittance at a low sheet resistance of 18 Ω/square, demonstrating their great potential in the application for touch screens.
Health awareness of rural households towards COVID‐19 pandemic in India: Evidence from Rural Impact Survey of the World Bank
Authors: Ali Jabir , Singh Sarbjit , Khan Waseem
Published: May 2022

This paper aims at analysing the level of awareness of the symptoms and the methods of protection from COVID‐19 based on the Rural Impact Survey of the World Bank, collected from 5200 households belonging to six states in India that is, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Data has been analysed using chi‐square test and regression analysis. Results of the analysis indicate that about 70.8% rural households are aware of the symptom of coronavirus, and 81.9% are aware of the preventive measures for controlling the spread of COVID‐19. Analysis indicates a significant association between awareness level on symptoms and prevention of COVID‐19 and socio‐demographics and location. The study further analyses the key determinants of awareness of COVID‐19 symptoms and preventive measures using the logistics regression model, indicating that age, gender, education, income, poverty status, access to information, cash relief and medical services are the determining factors of health awareness on COVID‐19 pandemic among rural households in India. Considering the importance of self‐protecting measures in fighting the pandemic, this paper highlights the importance of strengthening public awareness for containing the spread of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Fabrication of biodegradable hydrogels based on chitosan and poly(azomethine‐urethane) containing phenyl triazine for drug delivery
Authors: Kamaci Musa , Kaya İsmet
Published: May 2022

A series of biodegradable hydrogels based on chitosan and polyurethanes was fabricated to be applied to the drug delivery application, and the fabricated hydrogels were characterized by using SEM, and FT‐IR techniques. Polyurethanes were also synthesized by using the different diisocyanates, and the diisocyanate's effect on the properties of the hydrogels was clarified. The mechanical and thermal properties, % swelling capacity, biodegradation, and hydrophilic or hydrophobic behaviors of the chitosan and polyurethane hydrogels were also clarified. The fabricated hydrogels were demonstrated good biodegradable and antibacterial behaviors. The cumulative drug release of the hydrogels was revealed that they have around 50% drug release capacity, and according to the obtained results, the chitosan and polyurethane‐based hydrogels have a potential drug delivery application of 5‐fluorouracil.
Fabrication of fatigue‐resistant hydrogel via annealing‐assisted salting‐out method as flexible strain sensors
Authors: Zhao Chunxia , Dong Zhonghua , Guo Min , Liu Liang , Wu Yuanpeng , Li Yuntao , Xiang Dong , Li Hui , Lai Jingjuan , Wang Li
Published: May 2022

Hydrogels exhibit unique properties such as softness, biocompatibility, and responsiveness, which render such types of materials widely applicable in wearable devices. Although the toughness of hydrogels has been significantly improved over the past years to resist fracture deformations under the application of a single mechanical cyclic load, the already existing tough hydrogels are still prone to fatigue fracture when they are subjected to multiple cyclic mechanical loads. In this work, an annealing‐assisted salting‐out method was used to fabricate microcrystalline areas within the hydrogel to prepare anti‐fatigue P(AAm‐co‐MPC)/PVA hydrogels. Interestingly, the fatigue threshold of these materials reaches the value of 480 J m−2, much higher than that of the conventional synthetic hydrogel (1–100 J m−2). In addition, the proposed hydrogel structures exhibit excellent sensing performance, with a conductivity value of 0.42 S m−1, and a long‐term stable strain‐current response (2500 cycles). The applicability of this technique is not limited only to conductive hydrogels, but can also be extended to enhance other functional hydrogels with poor fatigue resistance properties.
Procedural rights as safeguard for human rights in platform regulation
Authors: Bayer Judit
Published: May 2022

In what way can coregulation and regulation (like that included in the NetzDG and envisaged by the Digital Services Act) ensure individual users' right to procedural fairness, through ensuring due process and transparency? In other words, how could users be treated fairly when it comes to removing their objectionable content: For example, by being appropriately informed, being able to raise complaints against removal of their content, and by being able to challenge the platform's decision? The current state of the play is to push the responsibility of deciding about questions related to freedom of expression on social media platform providers. In the triangle of freedom of expression social media platforms enjoy a disproportionate power to the detriment of the other two actors: authorities and individuals. This article takes note about how platforms act as proxies for state authority in content governance and examines how procedural fairness could ensure a safety zone to protect freedom of expression.
A green synthetic toolbox from organocatalytic alternating copolymerization of renewable epoxides and dihydrocoumarin
Authors: Ji He‐Yuan , Wang Bin , Pan Li , Liu Xiao‐Hui , Li Yue‐Sheng
Published: May 2022

The ring‐opening alternating copolymerization (ROAC) of biorenewable glycidyl ethers with 3,4‐dihydrocoumarin (DHC) was achieved by using metal‐free Lewis pair as catalyst. This mild process provided access to renewable polyesters with perfectly alternating structures and functional groups fidelity. Remarkably, we observed highly regioregular arrangement of substituents along with poly(phenol ether‐alt‐ester) backbone. A one‐step strategy to block copolymer could also be realized by terpolymerization of DHC, epoxides with cyclic anhydrides via pre‐rate‐determining selectivity. Post‐polymerization modification of the resultant polyesters was further performed by thiol‐ene click reaction of vinyl, Diels–Alder reaction of furyl, cleavage reaction of benzyl ethers and tetrazine click reaction. By incorporating two different pendant functional groups into a copolymer, combinatorial and selective functionalization was achieved for introducing additional functionality, giving a route to highly modifiable polyesters. Therefore, this work provides a paradigm for designing functional and regioregular polyesters as a green synthetic toolbox derived from organocatalysis and renewable feedstocks.
Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas applications in dentistry
Authors: Zhou Wen , Wang Xiuqing , Huang Xiaojing
Published: May 2022

Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas (CAP) is widely used for various therapeutic applications in health care. With the enormous progress in the understanding of plasma physics and development of plasma devices, the application of CAP is greatly promoted in dentistry. The reactive chemical species and electromagnetic radiation generated by CAP can activate and control various biochemical procedures. Therefore, CAP showed promising usage in surface modification of dental materials, biofilm removal, disinfection, endodontic therapy, periodontitis treatment, wound healing, and head and neck cancer control. Therefore, the objective of the present review is to present recently published studies on CAP in dentistry.
Review of the Effects of Polymer Binder Properties on Microstructure and Irreversible Volume Growth of Plastic Bonded Explosives Formulations
Authors: Pietron Jeremy J. , Mirkarimi Paul B.
Published: May 2022

The rational design of effective polymeric binders for the formulation of plastic‐bonded explosives (PBX) is challenging due to their inherent compositional complexity. The composites comprise irregularly shaped energetic material (EM) powders coated with low weight fractions of polymer via non‐equilibrium processes such as slurry coating. Defects can deleteriously affect PBX stability and performance: nano‐ to micrometer‐scale voids can act as loci for hot spots, lowering deflagration and detonation temperatures in unpredictable ways. Furthermore, some nominally desirable polymer properties are at odds with each other: e. g. good flow characteristics are desirable for coating and adhesion, but mechanical stiffness is needed to prevent deformation and cracking of PBX under mechanical stress. Good binder adhesion is critical, but the best means to predict and measure adhesion in PBX is not obvious. Experimental methods of determining binder adhesion on model surfaces may not capture polymer structural configurations relevant to deposition during coating. Molecular dynamics‐based computational models have predicted key observables in PBX formulation, suggesting that they may be powerful tools for binder selection. In this review, primarily recent (∼2006 and later) literature on polymeric binders for insensitive HE (IHE) is surveyed. We focus on how binder properties influence observable PBX properties as resistance to irreversible volume growth and void formation in PBX formulations mainly (but not exclusively) featuring 1,3,5‐triamino‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TATB) as the EM (e. g. PBX 9502, LX‐17 and others). Conclusions from these studies yield useful guidelines for choosing HE binder candidates, as well as for the general design of highly‐filled polymer composite materials. Finally, studies describing challenges in PBX formulation with the newer and more energetically dense high explosive, LLM‐105, will be discussed.
Topological dynamics of an intrinsically disordered N‐terminal domain of the human androgen receptor
Authors: Sheikhhassani Vahid , Scalvini Barbara , Ng Julian , Heling Laurens W. H. J. , Ayache Yosri , Evers Tom M. J. , Estébanez‐Perpiñá Eva , McEwan Iain J. , Mashaghi Alireza
Published: May 2022

Human androgen receptor contains a large N‐terminal domain (AR‐NTD) that is highly dynamic and this poses a major challenge for experimental and computational analysis to decipher its conformation. Misfolding of the AR‐NTD is implicated in prostate cancer and Kennedy's disease, yet our knowledge of its structure is limited to primary sequence information of the chain and a few functionally important secondary structure motifs. Here, we employed an innovative combination of molecular dynamics simulations and circuit topology (CT) analysis to identify the tertiary structure of AR‐NTD. We found that the AR‐NTD adopts highly dynamic loopy conformations with two identifiable regions with distinct topological make‐up and dynamics. This consists of a N‐terminal region (NR, residues 1–224) and a C‐terminal region (CR, residues 225–538), which carries a dense core. Topological mapping of the dynamics reveals a traceable time‐scale dependent topological evolution. NR adopts different positioning with respect to the CR and forms a cleft that can partly enclose the hormone‐bound ligand‐binding domain (LBD) of the androgen receptor. Furthermore, our data suggest a model in which dynamic NR and CR compete for binding to the DNA‐binding domain of the receptor, thereby regulating the accessibility of its DNA‐binding site. Our approach allowed for the identification of a previously unknown regulatory binding site within the CR core, revealing the structural mechanisms of action of AR inhibitor EPI‐001, and paving the way for other drug discovery applications.
Formation of fog due to stratus lowering: An observational and modelling case study
Authors: Fathalli M. , Lac C. , Burnet F. , Vié B.
Published: May 2022

We numerically investigate the processes responsible for a fog event formed by stratus cloud lowering, observed on December 1–2, 2016, during the experimental campaign in the northeast of France. The observations revealed a complex temporal evolution with stratus followed by a relatively drier period and then its reformation leading to fog formation by stratus lowering. Microphysical observations below a tethered balloon exhibit different vertical profiles of liquid water content and droplet concentration between the stratus and the fog formed below. A simulation at 100‐m grid spacing reproduced the main observed characteristics of the cloud life cycle despite a time lag in stratus formation due to large‐scale conditions. The advection of cloud water in the stratus and at its top appears crucial to feed the stratus lowering, resulting in radiative cooling, vertical transport, droplet sedimentation, evaporation, and cooling of the sub‐cloud layer. The advection of cold or warm air in the lowest 250 m, mainly driven by fine‐scale orographic circulations, impacts the fog formation due to stratus cloud lowering. When non‐local conditions are favourable, the most important microphysical process to favour fog formation is the droplet sedimentation, leading to the cooling and moistening in the sub‐cloud layer by evaporation. Droplet sedimentation appears more efficient when the droplet concentration is low, and a two‐moment microphysical scheme more appropriate than a one‐moment scheme to reproduce the observed variability of the droplet concentration. Given the predominance of non‐local processes on this case study, a three‐dimensional high‐resolution model appears crucial to perform accurate forecasts of fog by stratus lowering.
Synthetic community improves crop performance and alters rhizosphere microbial communities
Authors: Kaur Simranjit , Egidi Eleonora , Qiu Zhiguang , Macdonald Catriona A. , Verma Jay Prakash , Trivedi Pankaj , Wang Juntao , Liu Hongwei , Singh Brajesh K.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Harnessing synthetic communities (SynCom) of plant growth‐promoting (PGP) microorganisms is considered a promising approach to improve crop fitness and productivity. However, biotic mechanisms that underpin improved plant performance and the effects of delivery mode of synthetic community are poorly understood. These are critical knowledge gaps that constrain field efficacy of SynCom and hence large‐scale adoption by the farming community.

Material & Methods

In this study, a SynCom of four PGP microbial species was constructed and applied to either as seed dressing (treatment T1, applied at the time of sowing) or to soil (treatment T2, applied in soil at true leaf stage) across five different cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) cultivars. The impact of SynCom on plant growth, rhizosphere microbiome and soil nutrient availability, and how this was modified by plant variety and mode of applications, was assessed.

Results

Results showed that the seed application of SynCom had the strongest positive impact on overall plant fitness, resulting in higher germination (14.3%), increased plant height (7.4%) and shoot biomass (5.4%). A significant increase in the number of flowers (10.4%) and yield (8.5%) was also observed in T1. The soil nitrate availability was enhanced by 28% and 55% under T1 and T2, respectively. Results further suggested that SynCom applications triggered enrichment of members from bacterial phyla Actinobacteria, Firmicutes and Cyanobacteria in the rhizosphere. A shift in fungal communities was also observed, with a significant increase in the relative abundance of fungi from phyla Chytridiomycota and Basidiomycota in SynCom treatments. A structural equation model suggested that SynCom directly increased crop productivity but also indirectly via impacting the alpha diversity of bacteria.

Conclusion

Overall, this study provides mechanistic evidence that SynCom applications can shift rhizosphere microbial communities and improve soil fertility, plant growth, and crop productivity, suggesting that their use could contribute toward sustainable increase in farm productivity.
Mussel‐Inspired Ligand Clicking and Ion Coordination on 2D Black Phosphorus for Cancer Multimodal Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Li Zimu , Yu Yongkang , Zeng Wenfeng , Ding Fan , Zhang Dan , Cheng Wei , Wang Miao , Chen Hongzhong , Pan Guoqing , Mei Lin , Zeng Xiaowei , Gao Nansha
Published: May 2022

As a promising 2D nanocarrier, the biggest challenge of bare black phosphorus nanosheets (BP NSs) lies in the inherent instability, while it can be improved by surface modification strategies to a great extent. Considering the existing infirm BP NSs surface modification strategies, A mussels‐inspired strong adhesive biomimetic peptide with azide groups for surface modification to increase the stability of BP NSs is synthesized. The azide groups on the peptide can quickly and precisely bind to the targeting ligand through click chemistry, solving the problem of nonspecificity of secondary modification of other mussel‐mimicking materials. Besides, a catechol‐Gd3+ coordination network is further constructed for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and inducing intracellular endo/lysosome escape. The fabricated BP‐DOX@Gd/(DOPA)4‐PEG‐TL nanoplatform exhibits enhanced antitumor abilities through synergetic chemo/photothermal effects both in vitro and in vivo.
An Interlayer Containing Dissociated LiNO3 with Fast Release Speed for Stable Lithium Metal Batteries with 400 Wh kg−1 Energy Density
Authors: Yang Huicong , Liu Qingyun , Wang Yaozu , Ma Zhuoting , Tang Pei , Zhang Xiaoyin , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Sun Zhenhua , Li Feng
Published: May 2022

Lithium metal is an ideal electrode material for future rechargeable batteries. However, dendrite formation and unstable solid electrolyte interphase film lead to safety concerns and poor Coulombic efficiency (CE). LiNO3 significantly improves the performance of the lithium metal anode in ester electrolytes but its use is restricted by low solubility. To increase the content of LiNO3 in the cell, a poly‐(vinyl carbonate) organogel interlayer containing dissociated LiNO3 (LNO‐PVC) is placed between the cathode and anode. The dissociated LiNO3 effectively increases the LiNO3‐release rate and compensates for the LiNO3 consumed in ester electrolytes during cycling. Via this interlayer, the performance of the lithium metal anode is significantly improved. The average CE of a Li‐Cu cell reaches 98.6% at 0.5 mA cm−2‐1 h and 98.5% at 1 mA cm−2‐1 h for 300 cycles. Also, a Li||NCM811 pouch cell with LNO‐PVC interlayer can also reach a 400 Wh kg−1 energy density with a cycling life of 65 cycles. This strategy sheds light on the effect of the state of this salt on its release/dissolution kinetics, which is determined by the interactions between the salt and host material.
A Novel High‐Performance TiO2‐x/TiO1‐yNy Coating Material for Silicon Anode in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Sung Eun , Kim Min Ji , Lee Jin Woong , Chun Jinyoung , Choi Junghyun , Roh Kwang Chul , Kang Yun Chan , Jung Dae Soo
Published: May 2022

Protective surface coatings on Si anodes are promising for improving the electrochemical performance of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Nevertheless, most coating materials have severe issues, including low initial coulombic efficiency, structural fracture, morphology control, and complicated synthetic processing. In this study, a multifunctional TiO2‐x/TiO1‐yNy (TTN) formed via a facile and scalable synthetic process is applied as a coating material for Si anodes. A thin layer of amorphous TiO2 is uniformly coated onto Si nanoparticles by a simple sol–gel method and then converted into a two phase TiO2‐x/TiO1‐yNy via nitridation. The lithiated TiO2‐x provides high ionic and electrical conductivity, while TiO1‐yNy can improve mechanical strength that alleviates volume change of Si to address capacity fading issue. Owing to these synergetic advantages, TiO2‐x/TiO1‐yNy‐coated Si (Si@TTN) exhibits excellent electrochemical properties, including a high charge capacity of 1650 mA h g–1 at 0.1 A g–1 and 84% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 1 A g–1. Moreover, a significantly enhanced rate performance can be achieved at a high current density. This investigation presents a facile and effective coating material to use as the high‐capacity silicon anode in the emerging Si anode technology in LIBs.
The Synergistic Effects among Crystal Orientations, Creep Parameters, Local Strain, Macro–Microdeformation, and Polycrystals’ Hardness of Boron Alloyed P91 Steels
Authors: Akhtar Modassir , Khajuria Akhil
Published: May 2022

This article induces proficient microstructure––creep reciprocity by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and impression creep measurements (ICM). The article has further contributed to understanding the synergistic effects of boron in extenuating microstructural degradation. Herein, 22 and 100 ppm boron alloyed P91 steels (P91 and P91B steels, respectively) are subjected to ICM, assessing stress exponent (n), threshold stress (σTh), effective activation volume (Veff), and activation energy. Base metal and narrowed crept realm of each steel are measured by employing EBSD. ICM results are correlated with crystal orientations and 1) strain accumulation, 2) macroscopic and 3) microscopic deformation resistance, and 4) hardness of grain in polycrystals by calculating kernel average misorientation (KAM), elastic stiffness, grain reference orientation deviation (GROD), and Taylor factor (M) within microstructure before and after ICM. Measurements of P91B steel show a small value of n and Veff and a high value of σTh and activation energy as regards P91 steel. Lower KAM and stiffness before and after creep, higher GROD in base metal, and lower GROD in the crept realm in P91B steel as regards P91 steel corroborate microstructural homogeneity. M indicates both steels are hard before creep, while ICM moderates hardness. Finally, this study reveals synergistic effects of crystal orientations, KAM, stiffness, GROD, M, and creep.
A Critical Review on Nanowire‐Motors: Design, Mechanism and Applications
Authors: Wang Dashuang , Mukhtar Aiman , Humayun Muhammad , Wu Kaiming , Du Zhilan , Wang Shushen , Zhang Yuxin
Published: May 2022

Nanowire‐motors (NW−Ms) are promoting the rapid development of emerging biomedicine and environmental governance, and are an important branch of micro‐nano motors in the development of nanotechnology. In recent years, huge research breakthroughs have been made in these fields in terms of the fascinating microstructure, conversion efficiency and practical applications of NW−Ms. This review article introduces the latest milestones in NW−Ms research, from production methods, driving mechanisms, control methods to targeted drug delivery, sewage detection, sensors and cell capture. The dynamics and physics of micro‐nano devices are reviewed, and finally the current challenges and future research directions in this field are discussed. This review further aims to provide certain guidance for the driving of NW−Ms to meet the urgent needs of emerging applications.
Congenital bilateral renal dysplasia in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Authors: Tusa Nicole V. , Levy Nyssa A.
Published: May 2022

This report describes a case of congenital bilateral renal dysplasia in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) puppy, which has not been previously reported in the breed. An 8‐week‐old male intact CKCS was presented to a University Teaching Hospital for the evaluation of vomiting and lab work revealed azotemia. The puppy was treated with medical management involving fluid therapy, antibiotics, and supportive care. Due to the development of unresponsive oliguric renal failure, puppy's level of care intensified and peritoneal dialysis was initiated and continued over a 12‐day course. After initiating peritoneal dialysis, azotemia improved but the patient acutely declined after an episode of regurgitation and ultimately cardiopulmonary arrest. Postmortem examination revealed bilateral persistent fetal glomeruli, tubular dysplasia, and rare tubular necrosis. While congenital renal dysplasia has been reported in other canine breeds, to the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of congenital renal dysplasia in a CKCS.
Regulation of Molecular Farming Products
Authors: Hundleby Penny A. C. , D’Aoust Marc-André , Finkle Carolyn , Atkins Judith , Twyman Richard M.
Published: May 2022

The regulation of molecular farming is a complex topic because plants and plant-based systems are relative newcomers among the many production platforms available for recombinant proteins. The regulations specific for different types of product (human/veterinary pharmaceuticals and medical devices, cosmetics, diagnostics, and research reagents) must therefore be overlaid with the regulations governing hitherto unfamiliar production platforms, and this must be achieved in different jurisdictions that handle genetically modified organisms (and genetically modified plants in particular) in very different ways. This chapter uses examples of different product types and production methods in three different jurisdictions (the USA, the EU, and Canada) to demonstrate some of the challenges facing the regulatory authorities.