bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matched-field processing, geoacoustic inversion, and source signature recovery of blue whale vocalizations
Authors: Thode Aaron M. , D’Spain G. L. , Kuperman W. A.
Published: July 2002

Matched-field processing (MFP) and global inversion techniques have been applied to vocalizations from four whales recorded on a 48-element tilted vertical array off the Channel Islands in 1996. Global inversions from selected whale calls using as few as eight elements extracted information about the surrounding ocean bottom composition, array shape, and the animal’s position. These inversion results were then used to conduct straightforward MFP on other calls. The sediment sound-speed inversion estimates are consistent with those derived from sediment samples collected in the area. In general, most animals swam from the east to west, but one animal remained within ∼500 m of its original position over 45 min. All whales vocalized between 10 and 40 m depth. Three acoustic sequences are discussed in detail: the first illustrating a match between an acoustic track and visual sighting, the second tracking two whales to ranges out to 8 km, and the final sequence demonstrating high-resolution dive profiles from an animal that changed its course to avoid the research platform FLIP (floating instrument platform). This last whale displayed an unusual diversity of signals that include three strong frequency-modulated (FM) downsweeps which contain possible signs of an internal resonance. The arrival of this same whale coincided with a sudden change in oceanographic conditions.
Frequency characteristics of sound transmission in middle ears from Norwegian cattle, and the effect of static pressure differences across the tympanic membrane and the footplate
Authors: Kringlebotn Magne
Published: July 2002

For 23 cadaver ears from Norwegian cattle, frequency characteristics for the round-window volume displacement relative to the sound pressure at the eardrum have been measured, and are compared to earlier results for human ears [M. Kringlebotn and T. Gundersen, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 77(1), 159–164 (1985)]. For human as well as for cattle ears, mean amplitude curves have peaks at about 0.7 kHz. At lower frequencies, the mean amplitude for cattle ears is about 5 dB smaller than for human ears. The amplitude curves cross at about 2 kHz, and toward higher frequencies the amplitude for cattle ears becomes increasingly larger. If amplitude curves are roughly approximated by straight lines above 1 kHz, the slope for cattle ears is about −5 dB/octave as compared to about −15 dB/octave for human ears. The phase of the round-window volume displacement lags behind the phase of the sound pressure at the tympanic membrane. The phase lag is close to zero below 0.2 kHz, but increases to about 3.5π at 20 kHz for cattle ears, as compared to less than 2π for human ears. Further investigations are needed in order to explain the observed differences. Sound transmission in the ear decreases with an increasing static pressure difference across the tympanic membrane, especially at frequencies below 1 kHz, where pressure differences of 10 and 60 cm water cause mean transmission losses of about 10 and 26 dB, respectively, the losses being somewhat larger for overpressures than for underpressures in the ear canal. At higher frequencies, the transmission losses are smaller. For small overpressures, and in a limited frequency range near 3 kHz, even some transmission enhancement may occur. Static pressure variations in the inner ear have only a minor influence on sound transmission. Static pressures relative to the middle ear in the range 0–60 cm water cause mean sound transmission losses less than 5 dB below 1 kHz, and negligible losses at higher frequencies.
Conditioning-induced protection from impulse noise in female and male chinchillas
Authors: McFadden Sandra L. , Zheng Xiang-Yang , Ding Da-Lian
Published: July 2002

Sound conditioning (pre-exposure to a moderate-level acoustic stimulus) can induce resistance to hearing loss from a subsequent traumatic exposure. Most sound conditioning experiments have utilized long-duration tones and noise at levels below 110 dB SPL as traumatic stimuli. It is important to know if sound conditioning can also provide protection from brief, high-level stimuli such as impulses produced by gunfire, and whether there are differences between females and males in the response of the ear to noise. In the present study, chinchillas were exposed to 95 dB SPL octave band noise centered at 0.5 kHz for 6 h/day for 5 days. After 5 days of recovery, they were exposed to simulated M16 rifle fire at a level of 150 dB peak SPL. Animals that were sound conditioned showed less hearing loss and smaller hair cell lesions than controls. Females showed significantly less hearing loss than males at low frequencies, but more hearing loss at 16 kHz. Cochleograms showed slightly less hair cell loss in females than in males. The results show that significant protection from impulse noise can be achieved with a 5-day conditioning regimen, and that there are consistent differences between female and male chinchillas in the response of the cochlea to impulse noise.
Auditory thresholds in a sound-producing electric fish (Pollimyrus): Behavioral measurements of sensitivity to tones and click trains
Authors: Marvit Peter , Crawford John D.
Published: July 2002

In this report we present the first behavioral measurements of auditory sensitivity for Pollimyrus adspersus. Pollimyrus is an electric fish (Mormyridae) that uses both electric and acoustic signals for communication. Tone detection was assessed from the fish’s electric organ discharge rate. Suprathreshold tones usually evoked an accelerated rate in naïve animals. This response (rate modulation ⩾25%) was maintained in a classical conditioning paradigm by presenting a weak electric current near the offset of 3.5-s tone bursts. An adaptive staircase procedure was used to find detection thresholds at frequencies between 100 and 1700 Hz. The mean audiogram from six individuals revealed high sensitivity in the 200–900 Hz range, with the best thresholds near 500 Hz (66.5±4.2 SE dB re: 1 μPa). Sensitivity declined slowly (about 20 dB/octave) above and below this sensitivity maximum. Sensitivity fell off rapidly above 1 kHz (about 60 dB/octave) and no responses were observed at 5 kHz. This behavioral sensitivity matched closely the spectral content of the sounds that this species produced during courtship. Experiments with click trains showed that sensitivity (about 83-dB peak) was independent of inter-click-interval, within the 10–100 ms range.
An effect of temporal asymmetry on loudness
Authors: Stecker G. Christopher , Hafter Ervin R.
Published: July 2002

A set of experiments was conducted to examine the loudness of sounds with temporally asymmetric amplitude envelopes. Envelopes were generated with fast-attack/slow-decay characteristics to produce F–S (or “fast–slow”) stimuli, while temporally reversed versions of these same envelopes produced corresponding S–F (“slow–fast”) stimuli. For sinusoidal (330–6000 Hz) and broadband noise carriers, S–F stimuli were louder than F–S stimuli of equal energy. The magnitude of this effect was sensitive to stimulus order, with the largest differences between F–S and S–F loudness occurring after exposure to a preceding F–S stimulus. These results are not compatible with automatic gain control, power-spectrum models of loudness, or predictions obtained using the auditory image model [Patterson et al., J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 98, 1890–1894 (1995)]. Rather, they are comparable to phenomena of perceptual constancy, and may be related to the parsing of auditory input into direct and reverberant sound.
Compatible pseudospectral approximations for incompressible flow in an undulating tube
Authors: Owens Robert G. , Phillips Timothy N.
Published: July 2002

The flow of an Oldroyd-B fluid through an undulating tube is considered. The effect of elasticity and inertia on flow resistance is investigated numerically using a time-splitting technique. This technique can be used to solve both steady and transient viscoelastic flows. A pseudospectral method based on mixed Fourier–Chebyshev expansions is used to represent the flow variables in space. An approximation space for pressure is constructed which is compatible with that for the velocity. This is achieved by removing the spurious modes using a singular value decomposition. A projection method ensures that mass is conserved identically at the collocation points. Numerical results are presented in such a way as to highlight the inertial and elastic effects. To this end two sets of results are given: the first, inertialess viscoelastic flow; the second, flow at nonzero Reynolds number holding the Weissenberg number constant. The two cases are shown to have quite opposite effects upon the flow rate and resistance.
Integrated Urinalysis Devices Based on Interface‐Engineered Field‐Effect Transistor Biosensors Incorporated With Electronic Circuits
Authors: Yang Yanbing , Wang Jingfeng , Huang Wanting , Wan Guojia , Xia Miaomiao , Chen Duo , Zhang Yun , Wang Yiming , Guo Fuding , Tan Jie , Liang Huageng , Du Bo , Yu Lilei , Tan Weihong , Duan Xiangfeng , Yuan Quan
Published: July 2022

Urinalysis is attractive in non‐invasive early diagnosis of bladder cancer compared with clinical gold standard cystoscopy. However, the trace bladder tumor biomarkers in urine and the particularly complex urine environment pose significant challenges for urinalysis. Here, a clinically adoptable urinalysis device that integrates molecular‐specificity indium gallium zinc oxide field‐effect transistor (IGZO FET) biosensor arrays, a device control panel, and an internet terminal for directly analyzing five bladder‐tumor‐associated proteins in clinical urine samples, is reported for bladder cancer diagnosis and classification. The IGZO FET biosensors with engineered sensing interfaces provide high sensitivity and selectivity for identification of trace proteins in the complex urine environment. Integrating with a machine‐learning algorithm, this device can identify bladder cancer with an accuracy of 95.0% in a cohort of 197 patients and 75 non‐bladder cancer individuals, distinguishing cancer stages with an overall accuracy of 90.0% and assessing bladder cancer recurrence after surgical treatment. The non‐invasive urinalysis device defines a robust technology for remote healthcare and personalized medicine.
Low‐Temperature High‐Areal‐Capacity Rechargeable Potassium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Chen Jiangchun , Yu Dandan , Zhu Qiaonan , Liu Xiaozhi , Wang Jiawei , Chen Wenxing , Ji Runa , Qiu Keliang , Guo Lin , Wang Hua
Published: July 2022

High mass loading and high areal capacity are key metrics for commercial batteries, which are usually limited by the large charge‐transfer impedance in thick electrodes. This can be kinetically deteriorated under low temperatures, and the realization of high‐areal‐capacity batteries in cold climates remains challenging. Herein, a low‐temperature high‐areal‐capacity rechargeable potassium–tellurium (K–Te) battery is successfully fabricated by knocking down the kinetic barriers in the cathode and pairing it with stable anode. Specifically, the in situ electrochemical self‐reconstruction of amorphous Cu1.4Te in a thick electrode is realized simply by coating micro‐sized Te on the Cu collector, significantly improving its ionic conductivity. Meanwhile, the optimized electrolyte enables fast ion transportation and a stable K‐metal anode at a large current density and areal capacity. Consequently, this K–Te battery achieves a high areal capacity of 1.25 mAh cm−2 at −40 °C, which greatly exceeds those of most reported works. This work highlights the significance of electrode design and electrolyte engineering for high areal capacity at low temperatures, and represents a critical step toward practical applications of low‐temperature batteries.
Centimeter‐Scale Growth of Unidirectional CsCu2I3 Wire Arrays for High Performance UV Photodetectors
Authors: Xu Xing , Jiang Sha , Fan Chao , Deng Qi , Shen Lei , Zhang Qinglin
Published: July 2022

Lead‐free CsCu2I3 has attracted tremendous research interests for photonics and photoelectronics due to their nontoxicity, unique electronic structure, and excellent stability. However, it is still challenging to achieve large‐scale ordered arrays of CsCu2I3 micro/nanowires, which limits their functional applications in integrated optoelectronic devices. Herein, unidirectional CsCu2I3 wire arrays are achieved in centimeter scale through a modified microchannel‐assisted spatial confinement strategy, which can confine the precursor solution into the pre‐fabricated microchannel arrays in large area and control its evaporation. The microstructure characterizations reveal that the orthorhombic CsCu2I3 wires are grown along the c‐axis with high crystallinity. The control experiments and theoretical studies indicate that the initial CsCu2I3 nucleation at the front of the solution in the channels and the stable solute supply maintained by the movement of the coverslip determine the growth of the wires. The photodetectors based on the CsCu2I3 wires show a high responsivity (80 mA W−1 at 365 nm; 1.29 A W−1 at 330 nm) and fast response speed (trise/tdecay = 640 µs/7.1 ms). Furthermore, these CsCu2I3 wire arrays exhibit great potential in future flexible electronic and UV imaging applications. This work opens a new way to grow well‐aligned copper‐based halides nano/microwire arrays for the integrated optoelectronics applications.
Donor‐Node‐Acceptor Type Hole‐Transporting Materials Based on Conjugated Polymers with Perylene Diimide Pendants for High‐Performance Vertical‐Structure Perovskite Photodetectors
Authors: Wang Hailong , Zhang Qinglei , Zhou Jiadong , Su Xiaojun , Xie Guojing , Tang Ningning , Zheng Nan , Liu Linlin , Xie Zengqi
Published: July 2022

A series of donor‐node‐acceptor (D‐n‐A) type polymers containing linear conjugated backbone as donor and various contents of tetrachloronated perylene diimide (4Cl‐PDI) pendant as acceptor are synthesized for the application as hole‐transporting layers (HTLs) in n‐i‐p structured perovskite photodetectors (PDs). The strong aggregation behaviors of the linear conjugated backbone endow the polymers excellent hole transporting properties, and the strong electron affinity of 4Cl‐PDI pendant enables easily trapping of free electrons. Besides, the 4Cl‐PDI pendants in polymers suppress the intrinsic face‐on orientation of conjugated backbone. Both of the electron‐trapping property of 4Cl‐PDI pendant and the favorable edge‐on orientation of the conjugated backbone are benefits for restraining the dark current in perovskite PDs. Based on such D‐n‐A type hole‐transporting materials, durable vertical‐structure perovskite PDs are successfully demonstrated with superior performance of high responsivity of 0.32 A W−1, high detectivity of 2.2 × 1012 Jones, and fast response speed in microsecond scales.
Elasto‐Optic Effect of Lanthanum‐Modified Lead Zirconate–Lead Titanate Transparent Ceramics: Application in Optical‐Stress Sensors
Authors: Ming Xinhua , Liu Feng , Chen Yong , Chen Ming , Zhang Yan , Liu Bin , Wang Xujing , Sun Zhengguang , Pan Ruikun , Zheng Keyu , Dai Ying , Deng Zhao , He Xiyun , Cao Wanqiang , Wang Shimin , Wang Longhai
Published: July 2022

Elasto‐optic materials have extensive applications, particularly in sensors, filters, and acousto‐optic modulators in optical–mechanical‐coupled devices. Ferroelectric phenomenological theoretical analyses have shown that materials with large ferroelastic responses also have high elasto‐optic effects, and morphotropic phase‐boundary (MPB) ferroelectrics have substantial ferroelastic coupling; thus, a large elasto‐optic effect can be obtained. In this study, guided by phenomenological theories, lanthanum‐modified lead zirconate–lead titanate (PLZT) transparent ceramics close to MPB are successfully prepared using the hot‐pressing method. The elasto‐optic properties of the PLZT transparent ceramics are investigated using the half‐wave stress and the Sénarmont compensator methods. The results indicate that the PLZT ceramics have high transmittance (higher than 70% in near‐infrared) and a large elasto‐optic effect with a stress‐optic coefficient of 10.41 × 10−12 m2 N−1 (approximately three times that of SiO2). Based on these properties, intensity‐ and interference‐type optical‐stress sensors are designed and realized; better anti‐interference ability can be achieved using the interference‐type sensor. These results indicate that PLZT transparent ceramics are promising candidates for optical–mechanical‐coupled device applications. This study also substantiates that transparent ceramics are novel elasto‐optic materials, which uncover new avenues for the development of elasto‐optic materials with excellent properties.
Delivering the Promise of Gene Therapy with Nanomedicines in Treating Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Luo Meihua , Lee Leo Kit Cheung , Peng Bo , Choi Chung Hang Jonathan , Tong Wing Yin , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: July 2022

Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases, such as Alzheimer's diseases (AD), Parkinson's Diseases (PD), brain tumors, Huntington's disease (HD), and stroke, still remain difficult to treat by the conventional molecular drugs. In recent years, various gene therapies have come into the spotlight as versatile therapeutics providing the potential to prevent and treat these diseases. Despite the significant progress that has undoubtedly been achieved in terms of the design and modification of genetic modulators with desired potency and minimized unwanted immune responses, the efficient and safe in vivo delivery of gene therapies still poses major translational challenges. Various non‐viral nanomedicines have been recently explored to circumvent this limitation. In this review, an overview of gene therapies for CNS diseases is provided and describes recent advances in the development of nanomedicines, including their unique characteristics, chemical modifications, bioconjugations, and the specific applications that those nanomedicines are harnessed to deliver gene therapies.
Visible Light‐induced Decarboxylative Alkylations Enabled by Electron Donor‐Acceptor Complex
Authors: Liu Meng‐Ting , Liu De‐Guang , Qin Zhi‐Wei , Wang Guang‐Zu
Published: July 2022

We demonstrated herein a versatile protocol for visible‐light‐induced decarboxylative alkylations enabled by electron‐donor acceptor complex. An array of primary, secondary, tertiary and amino acid‐derived redox‐active esters (RAEs) were all amenable substrates to undergo radical decarboxylation to be coupled with a diverse range of nucleophiles, creating diverse C(sp3)−C(sp3) and C(sp3)−C(sp2) bonds with high efficiency. It is worth noting that Katritzky's salt and Togni's reagent were also suitable substrates, affording deaminative alkylation and trifluoromethylation products in high yields. Additionally, a one‐pot two‐step telescoped procedure and continuous‐flow process further increase the synthetic utility of this catalytic system.
Molar form, enamel growth, and durophagy in Cercocebus and Lophocebus
Authors: Guatelli‐Steinberg Debbie , Schwartz Gary T. , O'Hara Mackie C. , Gurian Kaita , Rychel Jess , McGraw W. Scott
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that differences in crown structure, enamel growth, and crown geometry in Cercocebus and Lophocebus molars covary with differences in the feeding strategies (habitual vs. fallback durophagy, respectively) of these two genera. Relative to Lophocebus molars, Cercocebus molars are predicted to possess features associated with greater fracture resistance and to differ in enamel growth parameters related to these features.

Materials and Methods

Sample proveniences are as follows: Cercocebus atys molars are from the Taï Forest, Ivory Coast; Lophocebus albigena molars are from a site north of Makoua, Republic of Congo; and a Lophocebus atterimus molar is from the Lomako Forest, Democratic Republic of Congo. For μCT scans on which aspects of molar form were measured, sample sizes ranged from 5 to 35 for Cercocebus and 3 to 12 for Lophocebus. A subsample of upper molars was physically sectioned to measure enamel growth variables.

Results

Partly as a function of their larger size, Cercocebus molars had significantly greater absolute crown strength (ACS) than Lophocebus molars, supporting the hypothesis. Greater crown heights in Cercocebus are achieved through faster enamel extension rates. Also supporting the hypothesis, molar flare and proportional occlusal basin enamel thickness were significantly greater in Cercocebus. Relative enamel thickness (RET), however, was significantly greater in Lophocebus.

Discussion

If ACS is a better predictor of fracture resistance than RET, then Cercocebus molars may be more fracture resistant than those of Lophocebus. Greater molar flare and proportional occlusal basin thickness might also afford Cercocebus molars greater fracture resistance.
Amyloid‐beta misfolding and GFAP predict risk of clinical Alzheimer's disease diagnosis within 17 years
Authors: Beyer Léon , Stocker Hannah , Rujescu Dan , Holleczek Bernd , Stockmann Julia , Nabers Andreas , Brenner Hermann , Gerwert Klaus
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Blood‐based biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease (AD) are urgently needed. Here, four plasma biomarkers were measured at baseline in a community‐based cohort followed over 17 years, and the association with clinical AD risk was determined.

Methods

Amyloid beta (Aβ) misfolding status as a structure‐based biomarker as well as phosphorylated tau 181 (P‐tau181), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light (NfL) concentration levels were determined at baseline in heparin plasma from 68 participants who were diagnosed with AD and 240 controls without dementia diagnosis throughout follow‐up.

Results

Aβ misfolding exhibited high disease prediction accuracy of AD diagnosis within 17 years. Among the concentration markers, GFAP showed the best performance, followed by NfL and P‐tau181. The combination of Aβ misfolding and GFAP increased the accuracy.

Discussion

Aβ misfolding and GFAP showed a strong ability to predict clinical AD risk and may be important early AD risk markers. Aβ misfolding illustrated its potential as a prescreening tool for AD risk stratification in older adults.
Roles of physical filling and chemical crosslinking on the physico‐mechanical properties of polylactic acid
Authors: Hao Yanping , Tian Hongchi , Chen Jun , Chen Qingkui , Zhang Weiwei , Liu Weikang , Liu Yang , Chen Wei , Chen Wenfei , Zuo Zhenjie , Wang Fan , Zhang Ligang
Published: July 2022

Polylactic acid (PLA) modified materials were prepared with physical filling and chemical crosslinking methods by melt extrusion respectively in this work, and the mechanical, rheological, crystalline, and heat resistance properties were investigated. It is found that filling with talc as the nucleating agent enhanced the crystallization capacity of PLA evidently. When 2 wt% talc was added into the PLA matrix, the crystallinity increased to 30.69% from 6.53% for neat PLA, enhancing by more than 3.6 times. Meanwhile heat resistance of talc filled PLA was improved significantly after annealing, increasing the heat deflection temperature from below 55 °C for neat PLA to about 130 °C for 2 wt% talc filled PLA. Molecular chains entanglement and spatial structures formation due to crosslinking reactions played key roles in tailoring the tensile, rheological properties and melt strengths of PLA materials. The elongation at break of the modified PLA materials increased by 149% and 126% separately after the crosslinking reactions with and without talc. The melt flow index decreased to 1.70 g/10 min after crosslinking from 11.79 g/10 min of neat PLA, indicating that crosslinking reactions exert significant effects on improving melt strength of PLA.
Designing Low‐Concentration Propylene Carbonate‐based Electrolyte by Manipulating Lithium+‐Solvation Structure for Graphite Anode
Authors: Guan Dichang , Hu Guorong , Peng Zhongdong , Cao Yanbing , Gan Zhanggen , Zhang Xudong , Du Ke
Published: July 2022

We systematically study the correlation between Li+‐solvation structure, interfacial stability, and electrochemical behavior in the system of graphite anode with low‐concentration (0.5 M) propylene carbonate (PC)‐based electrolyte (LCPE). 1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoroethyl‐2,2,3,3‐tetrafluoropropylether (TTE) [or 1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoroethyl‐2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl ether (HFE)] is used to manipulate the solvation structures of Li+ in the LCPEs. Varying Li+‐solvation structures are realized by changing the volume ratios of PC to TTE (or HFE) in the LCPEs. With the increase of TTE (or HFE) dosages, the relative contents of LiF and LixPOyFz in SEI derived from
increase, while the decomposition products of PC reduce. With enough TTE (or HFE) in the LCPE, the Li||graphite cell exhibits reversible (de)lithiation without PC co‐intercalation and continuous electrolyte decomposition due to the shield of a compact SEI rich in LiF and LixPOyFz. Our work proves it is practicable to achieve LiF‐riched SEIs on graphite anodes and realize reversible (de)lithiation in LCPEs by regulating the Li+‐solvation structures with inert cosolvents.
Cover Picture: Enantioselective halogenation via asymmetric phase‐transfer catalysis (BKCS 07/2022)
Authors: Lee Sunggi , Chung Won‐jin
Published: July 2022

Chiral phase‐transfer catalyst brings insoluble ionic halogenating reagents into the solution and mediates enantioselective halogenations by forming highly ordered asymmetric environments through ion pairing and/or hydrogen‐bonding interactions with the substrate and the reagent. Such approaches have been enormously successful in both nucleophilic and electrophilic halogenations. In this review, the remarkable examples over the past decade are surveyed with brief mechanistic discussions.

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How commuting time influences hedonic consumption: The role of perceived stress
Authors: Huang Minxue , Zhan Mengmeng , Huang Ruyao , Wu Jingjing
Published: July 2022

The commuting cost has increased inevitably under the background of industrialization and urbanization, which has vital impacts on daily life. In this paper, we implement an empirical study to explore the impact of commuting time on hedonic consumption and the underline mechanism of perceived stress based on the data of CFPS 2014 (a national social tracking survey project). The Tobit regression combined with the Heckman two‐stage model is applied to correct the sample selection bias. The results show that the increase in commuting time will aggrandize residents' tendency and expenditure of hedonic consumption. Moreover, we conduct situational experiments as a supplement to verify the main effect and mediation mechanism to exclude alternative explanations. The mechanism analyses prove that the perceived stress caused by long commuting time is a possible mediator for hedonic consumption. This study enriches the relative studies on social influences of commute, especially proving that this social issue may provide some benefits for business practice.
Association of autosomal‐recessive‐type distal renal tubular acidosis and Glanzmann thrombasthenia as a consequence of runs of homozygosity
Authors: Aso Keiko , Soutome Takehiko , Satoh Mari , Aoki Takako , Ogura Hiromi , Yamamoto Toshiyuki , Kanno Hitoshi , Takahashi Hiroyuki
Published: July 2022

We report the case of a Filipino girl with autosomal‐recessive‐type distal renal tubular acidosis and Glanzmann thrombasthenia caused by homozygous variants in the genes SLC4A1 and ITGA2B within the long homozygous DNA region on chromosome 17q21.31. This haplotype may be retained among individuals of Filipino descent.
A visualized pulmonary arterial thrombus by using a modified echocardiographic view in an intermediate‐risk acute pulmonary embolism patient: A case report
Authors: Mu Guanyu , Li Feixue , Chen Xiaolin , Zhao Bo , Li Guangping , Fu Huaying
Published: July 2022

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a life‐threatening disease with nonspecific clinical signs and symptoms. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial for the clinical management of patients with acute pulmonary embolism. A recommended echocardiography view may be of further help in the diagnosis and evaluation of the change in thrombosis and treatment. We reported a case of a 74‐year‐old man with a 12‐day history of decreased exercise capacity and dyspnea. The patient was diagnosed with intermediate‐risk APE as several pulmonary emboli in pulmonary artery were seen in multidetector computed tomographic pulmonary angiography with normal blood pressure and echocardiographic right ventricular overload. And we found a pulmonary artery clot in the right pulmonary artery through transthoracic echocardiography. After 11‐days anticoagulation, the patient underwent a reassessment, showed a decrease in RV diameter and pulmonary artery thrombus. This case highlights the significant role that echocardiography played in a patient who presented pulmonary embolism with a stable hemodynamic situation and normal blood pressure. The modified echocardiographic view could provide correct diagnosis by identifying the clot size and location visually. Knowledge of the echocardiography results of APE would aid the diagnosis.
Fabrication and Properties of n‐Octadecane/Nano‐MgO/Expanded Graphite as a Thermal Storage Material
Authors: Wei Yuchen , Wang Wenze , Fang Guiyin
Published: July 2022

Composite thermal storage materials (CTSM) composed of n‐octadecane, nano‐MgO, and expanded graphite (EG) were fabricated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffractometry results confirm that the CTSM components were combined in physical interaction. Scanning electronic microscopy images illustrate the CTSM microstructure. The differential scanning calorimetry results indicate that the melting temperature and latent heat of CTSM3 are 28.31 °C and 195.06 kJ kg−1, respectively, and the solidifying temperature and latent heat are 27.69 °C and 191.86 kJ kg−1, respectively Thermogravimetric analysis proves that CTSM3 has good thermal stability. The heat conductivity of CTSM3 is 3.59 times that of n‐octadecane/nano‐MgO. Thermal cycle experiments verify that the chemical structure of CTSM3 is stable.
Comparative Study on Chitosans as Green Binder Materials for LiMn2O4 Positive Electrodes in Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Künne Sven , Püttmann Frederik , Linhorst Max , Moerschbacher Bruno M. , Winter Martin , Li Jie , Placke Tobias
Published: July 2022

The increasing demand for lithium ion batteries consequently involves research on environmentally benign materials and processing routes. Environmentally friendly cobalt‐free, and fluorine‐free electrodes processed without organic solvents were targeted as this approach combines high work safety and sustainability with good electrochemical performance. In this study, chitosan‐based biopolymers were synthesized and systematically investigated for the first time as “green” binders for positive electrodes utilizing LiMn2O4 (LMO). In particular, chitosans with different specifically designed low and high degrees of polymerization (DP), each with comparable degree of acetylation (DA), revealed insights into the impact on the mechanical and electrochemical performance of LMO positive electrodes. Herein, low DP chitosan provided twice the adhesion strength compared to the state‐of‐the‐art binder polyvinylidene difluoride (PVdF) in LMO electrodes, thus, showing the opportunity to reduce the binder content and increase the specific energy. Electrodes with DA<16 % chitosan‐based binder could deliver higher discharge capacities than cathodes using PVdF or chitosans with DA>16 % in LMO||Li metal cells. Cross‐linking of chitosans with citric acid (CA) was demonstrated to significantly increase the discharge capacity up to 80 mAh g−1 at 10 C charge/discharge rate.
Evaluation of p16/Ki‐67 dual‐stain as triage test for high‐risk HPV‐positive women: A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Chen Chen , Liu Liyi , Dai Wenjun , Zhang Jing , Han Chunyan , Zhou Shujun
Published: July 2022

Background

Most human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive women recover from infections and do not develop cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer. Additional triage approaches are needed to reduce unnecessary colposcopy referrals. The aim of this study is to determine the high‐risk HPV prevalence in a hospital‐based population and to evaluate the performance of p16/Ki‐67 dual‐stain test for the triage of high‐risk HPV‐positive women to detect precursor lesions and cervical cancer compared with the ThinPrep cytologic test (TCT).

Methods

In a hospital‐based population, 100,801 women were provided with a primary HPV DNA test and only women with high‐risk HPV infections were triaged using TCT and p16/Ki‐67 dual‐stain test. CIN2 or worse (≥CIN2) or CIN3 or worse (≥CIN3) were defined as the clinical end points.

Results

The p16/Ki‐67 dual‐stain indicated a statistically significant higher sensitivity (82.8% vs. 66.7%%), specificity (51.6% vs. 44.4%), positive predictive value (33.2% vs. 25.8%), negative predictive value (91.2% vs. 82.1%), and accuracy (58.6% vs. 49.4%) compared with TCT examination within ≥CIN2 cases. Similar patterns were observed for the ≥CIN3 end point.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that p16/Ki‐67 dual‐stain test could achieve better performance compared with TCT examination for ≥CIN2 or ≥ CIN3 detection, representing a promising approach as a specific and efficient triage strategy for high‐risk HPV‐positive women.
The influence of exercise on clinical pain and pain mechanisms in patients with subacromial pain syndrome
Authors: Lyng Kristian Damgaard , Andersen Jonas Dahl , Jensen Steen Lund , Olesen Jens Lykkegaard , Arendt‐Nielsen Lars , Madsen Niels Kragh , Petersen Kristian Kjær
Published: July 2022

Background

Few studies have investigated the underlying mechanisms for unilateral subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS). Therefore, this study examined (1) if 8‐weeks of exercise could modulate clinical pain or temporal summation of pain (TSP), conditioned pain modulation (CPM), and exercise‐induced hypoalgesia (EIH) and (2) if any of these parameters could predict the effect of 8‐weeks of exercise in patients with unilateral SAPS.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients completed a progressive abduction exercise program every other day for 8‐weeks. Worst shoulder pain in full abduction was rated on a numeric rating scale (NRS). Pain pressure thresholds (PPTs), TSP, CPM, EIH, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), PainDETECT questionnaire (PD‐Q), Pain Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire (PSE‐Q) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were assessed before and after intervention.

Results

The intervention improved worst pain intensity (p < 0.001), increased the CPM (p < 0.001), improved the sleep scores (p < 0.005) and reduced the PainDETECT ratings (p < 0.001). No changes were observed in PPT, TSP, EIH, SPADI, PCS and PSE‐Q (all p > 0.05). In a linear regression, the combination of all baseline parameters predicted 23.2% variance in absolute change in pain after 8 weeks. Applying backwards elimination to the linear regression yielded that baseline pain intensity combined with TSP predicted 33.8% variance.

Conclusion

This explorative study suggested reduction in pain, improved sleep quality and increased CPM after 8‐weeks of exercise. Furthermore, the results suggests that low pain intensity and high TSP scores (indicative for pain sensitisation) may predict a lack of pain improvement after exercise.
From ion‐sensitive field‐effect transistor to 2D materials field‐effect‐transistor biosensors
Authors: Rizzato Silvia , Monteduro Anna Grazia , Leo Angelo , Todaro Maria Teresa , Maruccio Giuseppe
Published: July 2022

Field‐effect transistors have strong applications in biosensing field from pH and glucose monitoring to genomics, proteomics, cell signaling assays, and biomedical diagnostics in general. Notable advantages are the high sensitivity (thanks to intrinsic amplification), quick response (useful for real‐time monitoring), suitability for miniaturization, and compact portable read‐out systems. The initial concept of ion‐sensitive field‐effect transistors evolved with the emergence of novel classes of materials beyond traditional semiconductors. Recently, 2D nanomaterials are redesigning the field providing superior performances with large surface‐to‐volume ratio, high carrier mobility, more effective local gating, high transconductance, and operation at low voltages. Here, after a brief conceptual introduction, we review progresses and perspectives of 2D materials field‐effect‐transistor biosensors with special focus on opportunities, most recent applications, present challenges, and future perspectives.
A worldwide survey on the use of animal‐derived materials and reagents in scientific experimentation
Authors: Cassotta Manuela , Bartnicka Joanna Julia , Pistollato Francesca , Parvatam Surat , Weber Tilo , D'Alessandro Vito , Bastos Luisa Ferreira , Coecke Sandra
Published: July 2022

The use of cell and tissue‐based methods in basic, applied and regulatory science has been increasing exponentially. Animal‐derived components, including serum, coating materials, growth factors and antibodies are routinely used in cell/tissue cultures and in general laboratory practices. In addition to ethical issues, the use and production of animal‐derived materials and reagents raises many scientific concerns, generally associated with presence of undefined components and batch‐to‐batch variability, which may compromise experimental reproducibility. On the other hand, non‐animal materials and reagents, such as human cells, alternatives to animal sera or non‐animal recombinant antibodies, are becoming increasingly available, and their use is encouraged by the EU Directive 2010/63 and the Guidance Document on Good In vitro Method Practices (GIVIMP), published by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). In an effort to map the current state of use of animal‐derived reagents across different sectors and to identify the obstacles possibly hampering the implementation of non‐animal derived alternatives, a global online survey addressed to scientists working on in vivo, in vitro, in silico methods, in academia as well as pharmaceutical or cosmetic companies, was conducted with the goal to understand: 1) the most commonly used animal‐derived materials and reagents, 2) the main issues associated with the production and use of animal‐derived materials and reagents, 3) the current level of knowledge on available non‐animal alternative materials and reagents, and 4) what educational and information sources could be most useful or impactful to disseminate knowledge on non‐animal alternatives. This paper provides an overview of the survey replies and discusses possible proposals to increase awareness, acceptance and use of non‐animal ingredients.
Synthesis of Ultrathin Porous Bimetallic Nickel–Cobalt Phosphide Nanosheets as an Excellent Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Mushtaq Nouraiz , Ma Xilan , Aslam Khizzra , Younas Waqar , Zhu Youqi , Cao Chuanbao
Published: July 2022

Electrochemical water splitting has attracted great attention for hydrogen production, yet is still limited by capable electrocatalysts. Herein, the ultrathin porous nickel–cobalt phosphide nanosheets (NiCoP NS) are successfully synthesized by microwave‐assisted technique and used as a robust bifunctional catalyst for overall water splitting. The NiCoP NSs can show excellent catalytic activity with a low overpotential (η10) of 105 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for hydrogen evolution reaction and a small overpotential (η10) of 240 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for oxygen evolution reaction. The water splitting device of NiCoP NSs can give lower cell voltage of 1.45 and 1.67 V at a current density of 10 and 100 mA cm−2. The better electrochemical performance should be attributed to the synergetic effect of nickel and cobalt, porous morphology, and large surface area. These key factors boost the reactant's adsorption energy, number of exposed active sites, and produce different channels for charge transfer and reactant/electrolyte diffusion.
Cargas Coming down: Chronic stress, Chicana‐Indigenous spiritual healing, and feminist fugitive potentiality
Authors: Raschig Megan
Published: July 2022

The bodies of low‐income Chicana‐Indigenous women are often sites of chronic racialized and gendered stress, as well as tremendous potentiality. I examine the relationship between stress and possibility as shaped by Chicana‐Indigenous spiritual healing among members of a women's healing collective in California. These women articulate chronic stresses as cargas, Spanish for burden, baggage, or charge. Unloading these stresses among each other, or descargando, leads to actions mobilized as anticarceral activism. Attention to their sense of stress carried collectively as cargas builds on Black feminist understandings of stress as structured by racialized criminalization and state and carceral violence while illuminating the materiality and potentiality of this embodiment in Chicana‐Indigenous contexts. The strategies cultivated for healing in these conditions underscore that stress is a worldly phenomenon, requiring emergent coalitions addressing social and structural conditions rather than solely individual therapeutic remedy or resilience. Working from feminist and fugitive anthropological commitments, centering descargando as an embodied knowledge praxis, I argue that an anthropological concern with potentiality must have an active, liberatory ethics, rooted in intersectional solidarity, accountability, and care.
The Hoanh Bo Trough‐a landward keyhole to the syn‐rift Late Eocene–Early Oligocene terrestrial succession of the northern Song Hong Basin (onshore north‐east Vietnam)
Authors: Wysocka Anna , van Tha Hoang , Czarniecka Urszula , Durska Ewa , Filipek Anna , Pha Phan Dong , Cuong Nguyen Quoc , Zaszewski Daniel , Tuan Dang Minh , Thanh Nguyen Trung , Baranowski Adam
Published: July 2022

Located on the northern Vietnam onshore/offshore transition, the Hoanh Bo Trough is an excellently exposed terrestrial Palaeogene sedimentary sequence that may be treated as an analogue for regional interpretations of the sedimentary and structural evolution of the northern Song Hong Basin. The Hoanh Bo Trough lies to the north of the northern Song Hong Basin and to the west of the Beibuwan Basin, the origin and evolution of which are linked with Palaeogene South China Sea rifting. Field and archival well sedimentological observations were made throughout the Palaeogene succession of the Hoanh Bo Trough, and samples were collected for palynological, petrographical, and geochemical analysis. Based on the coexistence of particular lithofacies, proximal alluvial fan, distal alluvial fan, fluvial alluvial plain with channels, alluvial plain and/or lake margin, and lacustrine facies associations were distinguished. Palynological analyses suggest the sedimentary infill of the Hoanh Bo Trough is of the Late Eocene–Early Oligocene age and was deposited in a very warm tropical/subtropical climate. In turn, geochemical results demonstrate that the deposits have intermediate chemical maturity and were probably reworked from older sedimentary rock sources. Moreover, it is suggested to combine the Dong Ho and Tieu Giao formations and synonymize them as the Dong Ho Formation. The sedimentary pattern, age, climatic conditions, and structural evolution of the Hoanh Bo Trough align well with the rift initiation, rift development, and rift termination tectonic system tracts. Moreover, the Hoanh Bo Trough could be treated as a landward keyhole for the offshore basins: for instance, the Kien An Basin in the northern Song Hong Basin.
Microglia deficiency accelerates prion disease but does not enhance prion accumulation in the brain
Authors: Bradford Barry M. , McGuire Lynne I. , Hume David A. , Pridans Clare , Mabbott Neil A.
Published: July 2022

Prion diseases are transmissible, neurodegenerative disorders associated with misfolding of the prion protein. Previous studies show that reduction of microglia accelerates central nervous system (CNS) prion disease and increases the accumulation of prions in the brain, suggesting that microglia provide neuroprotection by phagocytosing and destroying prions. In Csf1rΔFIRE mice, the deletion of an enhancer within Csf1r specifically blocks microglia development, however, their brains develop normally and show none of the deficits reported in other microglia‐deficient models. Csf1rΔFIRE mice were used as a refined model in which to study the impact of microglia‐deficiency on CNS prion disease. Although Csf1rΔFIRE mice succumbed to CNS prion disease much earlier than wild‐type mice, the accumulation of prions in their brains was reduced. Instead, astrocytes displayed earlier, non‐polarized reactive activation with enhanced phagocytosis of neuronal contents and unfolded protein responses. Our data suggest that rather than simply phagocytosing and destroying prions, the microglia instead provide host‐protection during CNS prion disease and restrict the harmful activities of reactive astrocytes.
Preoperative function‐specific connectome analysis predicts surgery‐related aphasia after glioma resection
Authors: Ille Sebastian , Zhang Haosu , Sogerer Lisa , Schwendner Maximilian , Schöder Axel , Meyer Bernhard , Wiestler Benedikt , Krieg Sandro M.
Published: July 2022

Glioma resection within language‐eloquent regions poses a high risk of surgery‐related aphasia (SRA). Preoperative functional mapping by navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) combined with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is increasingly used to localize cortical and subcortical language‐eloquent areas. This study enrolled 60 nonaphasic patients with left hemispheric perisylvian gliomas to investigate the prediction of SRA based on function‐specific connectome network properties under different fractional anisotropy (FA) thresholds. Moreover, we applied a machine learning model for training and cross‐validation to predict SRA based on preoperative connectome parameters. Preoperative connectome analysis helps predict SRA development with an accuracy of 73.3% and sensitivity of 78.3%. The current study provides a new perspective of combining nTMS and function‐specific connectome analysis applied in a machine learning model to investigate language in neurooncological patients and promises to advance our understanding of the intricate networks.
How do thermal conditions in intensive care units affect the health and well‐being of intensivists?
Authors: Vieira Elamara Marama de Araujo , Silva Jonhatan Magno Norte da , Silva Luiz Bueno da , Nascimento João Agnaldo do , Leite Wilza Karla dos Santos , Bispo Lucas Gomes Miranda
Published: July 2022

This study presents situational risk scenarios to predict the potential implications of predicted and perceived thermal configurations on the health and well‐being of health care professionals in intensive care units (ICUs). Nine ICUs were selected, and thermal variables were collected; simultaneously, 128 health care professionals were interviewed to assess their perceptions, satisfaction, and health conditions related to their workplace environment. In scenarios with thermal comfort (either predicted or perceived), the risk of exposure to physical and psychological symptoms was reduced. This effect also extends to predictions and perceptions tending toward slightly cooler temperatures. In situations with a predicted mean vote below −1.5 and above 0.5, symptom complaints increased, even when the health care professionals perceived their environment as thermally comfortable, with the most extreme cases generating an increase of up to 27% in the baseline probability. Adjusting the workplace environment to be thermally comfortable can reduce symptom complaints.