bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Progress on Diapause in Flies (Diptera)
Authors: Han Haibin , Li Yanyan , Zhang Bo , Lin Kejian , Gao Shujing , Xu Linbo , Wang Ning , Duan Wenchang , Niu Wenyuan
Published: August 2022

Diapause is a physiological process in which insects can survive in a natural environment that is not conducive to their survival, which is the result of long-term adaptation to environmental conditions. It provides a great adaptive advantage for insects, allowing insects to survive in unsuitable seasonal environments to synchronize their life cycles with those suitable for growth, development, and reproduction. The process of regulating insect diapause is a complex process interacting with multiple mechanisms. In this chapter, a review is given of the current knowledge of diapause types, environmental inducing factors, sensitive states, and the endogenous molecular mechanism associated with diapause in flies (Diptera). Research regarding both the diapause process and intrinsic mechanism is reviewed.
Boron Compounds for Neutron Capture Therapy in the Treatment of Brain Tumors
Authors: Kawabata Shinji , Hu Naonori , Hiramatsu Ryo , Tsujino Kohei , Ikeda Naokado , Nonoguchi Naosuke , Furuse Motomasa , Wanibuchi Masahiko
Published: August 2022

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), which uses the capture reaction between neutrons and boron-10, an isotope of boron, is rapidly gaining interest. The reason for this is the successful development of a compact accelerator-type neutron generator that can be installed in a hospital and launched into the clinical setting. BNCT, which provides selective radiotherapeutic effects at the cellular level, is expected to be effective against invasive cancer. We have been investigating BNCT applications in various types of malignant brain tumors, especially malignant gliomas, as medical applications. Recently, we have conducted clinical trials using the developed accelerator neutron source. Research on pharmaceutical applications of compounds that transport boron to cancer cells is expected to be in even greater need. Currently, the only boron agent used in cancer therapy is BPA (Borofaran 10B), which takes advantage of the demand for essential amino acids, but the research and development of boron agents are an absolutely key technology to further improve the precision of this treatment modality. This chapter summarizes and discusses the results of BNCT in the treatment of brain tumors.
Improving Hydrogen Production Yield in Hydrothermal Gasification Processes through Novel Metal Catalysts
Authors: Irmak Sibel
Published: August 2022

Catalysts are the most effective and economically feasible way to increase yield of the product(s) in various production processes. The catalysts prepared with innovative approaches could have novel catalytic properties such as increased number of active sites, highly selective to the target product, resistance to deactivation, and extended lifetime. The catalysts with these unique properties could provide significant economic benefits for the production of hydrogen which is currently very expensive. Gasification in hydrothermal conditions has considerable advantages over existing high energy-consuming conversion technologies. Hydrothermal conversion processes take place at mild conditions and wet feed materials such as biomass can be used with no need of drying. However, the absence of practical catalysts in hydrothermal conditions is a main challenge that impedes application of these technologies in large scales. This book chapter focused on the metal catalysts which can be used for hydrothermal gasification processes for high-yielding hydrogen gas production from biomass compounds. The effects of different type of carbon supports, incorporation of heteroatom(s) into catalyst support, different shell structure design, etc., were discussed for hydrogen production in hydrothermal gasification processes.
Recent Strategies for Ocular Drug Delivery: Promises and Challenges
Authors: H. El-Kamel Amal , A. Ashour Asmaa
Published: August 2022

Ocular diseases include various anterior and posterior segment diseases. Due to the unique anatomy and physiology of the eye, efficient ocular drug delivery is a great challenge to researchers. The emerging nanoscience is playing an important role in the development of novel strategies for ocular disease management. Various active molecules have been designed to associate with nanocarriers to overcome ocular barriers and interact with certain ocular tissues. In this chapter, highlights will be made on barrier to intraocular delivery, general pathways for ocular absorption, and factors affecting intraocular bioavailability. The recent attempts of nanotechnology for treating anterior and posterior ocular diseases will be explored. This will include nanomicelles, nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, vesicular systems, in situ gel, dendrimers, contact lenses, implants, microneedles, and cell-based delivery systems. In addition, gene-based ocular delivery systems will be discussed. In this chapter, we will also provide a comprehensive overview of drug-device combinations used for ocular diseases such as glaucoma, dry eye disease, infections, and inflammations. Furthermore, drug delivery devices for ocular surgeries are discussed. Finally, challenges and future prospective of ocular delivery systems will be explored.
Hesitancy for COVID-19 Vaccines and Its Implications for Routine Immunisation
Authors: Kumar Mohan , Surya V.L.
Published: August 2022

Vaccine hesitancy is a continuum, conditional on confidence (on vaccine or healthcare authorities), complacency, structural or psychological constraints, calculation or evaluation, vaccination convenience, and aspects pertaining to collective responsibility. The present chapter documents hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccination; and elaborates on factors that contribute to both hesitancy (barriers and concerns) and acceptance (enablers) rates, disaggregated by populations. We also discuss the multimodal nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and its vaccine hesitancy-related implications on routine immunisation. The pandemic and related movement restrictions or other mitigation measures, partial or complete suspension of vaccination clinics or fear of COVID-19, stress, anxiety, and depression may have limited parents’ access to avail routine immunisation vaccines for their children. Also, the impact of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is not limited to pandemic vaccines but may continue to extend to routinely recommended vaccines.
Intensity-dependent electron correlation in nonsequential double ionization of Ar atoms in counter-rotating two-color elliptically polarized laser fields
Authors: Su Jie , Liu Zi-Chao , Liao Jian-Ying , Li Ying-Bin , Huang Cheng ,   Chongqing City Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Structure Optoelectronics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China,   College of physics and Electronic Engineering, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang 464000, China
Published: August 2022

Electron correlation behaviors and recollision dynamics in nonsequential double ionization (NSDI) of Ar atoms in a counter-rotating two-color elliptically polarized (TCEP) field are investigated by using a three-dimensional classical ensemble model. The numerical results show that the correlated momentum distribution of electron pairs in the x-axis direction evolves from a V-shaped structure in the first quadrant at the low intensity, to an arc-shaped structure mainly located in the second and fourth quadrants at moderate intensity, finally to a distribution near the origin located in the first quadrant in the high intensity. With the laser intensity increasing, the dominant correlation behavior evolves from correlation to anti-correlation and finally reverts back to correlation. The combined electric field traces out a trefoil pattern, i.e. the waveform in a period shows three leaves in different directions. Each leaf is called a lobe. The electric field recursively evolves from lobe 1 to lobe 2 and to lobe 3. Unlike the counter-rotating two-color circularly polarized fields, the combined fields from two elliptical fields do not have the spatial symmetry. Amplitudes of the three field lobes and the angles between them are different. Furthermore, the back analysis of NSDI trajectories shows that the single ionization in NSDI events mainly occurs in lobe 1 and lobe 3, and the contribution from lobe 1 increases and that from lobe 3 decreases with the increase of the intensity. Correspondingly, the free electrons mainly return to the parent ion from 20° and 175°. With the laser intensity increasing, the electrons returning from 20° gradually increase and those returning from 175° gradually decrease. In order to further understand the correlation behaviors of electron pairs in the x-axis direction, the NSDI events triggered off by single ionization from different lobes are separately discussed. With the increase of laser intensity the correlation behavior of NSDI events triggered off by single ionization from field lobe 1 evolves from anti-correlation behavior to correlation behavior, but the correlation behavior of NSDI events induced by single ionization from field lobe 3 evolves from correlation behavior to anti-correlation behavior. With the laser intensity increasing, the NSDI events induced by single ionization from field lobe 1 increase gradually, but those from field lobe 3 decrease. This results in that the total dominant correlation behavior evolves from correlation to anti-correlation and finally reverts back to correlation as the laser intensity increases.
Profile Optimization for Course Layer of Road Overlay: MX Road Software
Authors: Sahu Babulal , Mishra Siba Prasad , Sahu Deepak Kumar
Published: August 2022

This paper describes the optimization process of profile corrective course layer (PCC) / regulating layer/ leveling layer volume with the help of MX Road software, for overlay and widening of road projects. It also proposes a rethink of the methodology of design standards with particular reference to vertical profile design, in the allowance for adjustment of cross-fall and of vertical alignment to better fit the purpose and to minimize the cost of this type of construction. The Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) and GIS methodology are the soft wares along with MX software. Pavement quantity volumes are one of the major cost components in the delivery of a road project. An overlay-type project needs to optimize the profile corrective course volume with satisfying the structural strength capacity of pavement, road safety, and riding quality. The amount of money saved by optimization of PCC quantity can be invested in building more road lengths.
Isolation of Contaminating Bacteria from Aqueous Solution of Contact Eye Lenses
Authors: Ali Abdelhakam H. , M. Abdulwahab A. Fadil , Zroog Susan Ali , Gorish Babbiker Mohammed Taher
Published: August 2022

Background: Contact lenses have been widely used as an alternative to spectacles both in developed and non-developing countries. However, under certain circumstances, adverse responses can occur during contact lens wear and several microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and free living amoebae—can cause several eye infections. This study was aimed to isolate contaminating bacteria from eye lenses solution.

Methods: The samples were collected from solution bottles of eye lenses with the help of sterile cotton tipped swabs that were pre- moistened with sterile normal saline, then sample directly cultured on solid media. All samples were inoculated on to blood agar, MacConkey’s agar were incubated at 37oC for 24-48 h, Cultures were considered negative if no growth was detected within 48 hours of incubation. Bacterial culture obtained was identified using Gram’s staining, on the basis of culture diagnosis by growing on media and performing biochemical test.

Results: A total of 150 samples from aqueous solution of contact eye lenses were used to isolate bacteria from it. Out of these samples 84 bacteria were isolated from aqueous solution while 66 were without growth. The most frequent isolated bacteria were P.aeurogenosa 39(46%) followed by S. epidermidis 27 (32%) then S. aureus 12 (14%) and E. coli 6(7%) respectively which is significant result (P-Value of 0.005).

Conclusion: The study revealed that contact lenses solution under investigation contains different types of bacteria and pseudomonas is more frequent bacteria. Furthermore the contact lenses with multiple use and users which not have difference types of bacteria growth.
Endoscopically Assisted Repair of Nasal Septal Perforation Using Platelet Rich Plasma
Authors: Sharaf Mohammed Ibrahim , Tamom Mohamed Osama , Al-Bermawy Osama Amin , Asker Mohammed Hamid
Published: August 2022

Background: Nasal septal perforations (NSPs) are nasal septum defects as a result of necrosis to the cartilage or bony tissues in addition to their mucous membrane on both surfaces. the current work aimed to estimate endoscopically assisted repair of medium-sized nasal septal perforation using inferiorly based rotational flap together with Platelet rich plasma (PRP).

Methods: It was a randomized controlled double-blind study recruited on 40 cases with anterior septal perforation for endoscopic repair. Patients randomly were allocated into two equal groups: group A were cases with anterior septal perforation for endoscopic repair using inferior based mucosal rotational and septal flaps only and group B were patients subjected to inferior based mucosal rotational and septal flaps together with PRP. All participants were exposed to thorough history taking, laboratory, clinical examination, and radiological investigation.

Results: Number of patients who had complete or partial closure of septal perforation, was insignificantly different between both groups. Number of patients who had decrease in size of perforation, same size perforation, residual symptoms, and who were asymptomatic was insignificant difference between both groups. Times to disappearance of residual epistaxis and residual crustation were significantly earlier in group B in comparison with group A (P = 0.001 and 0.011 respectively).

Conclusions: Overall, PRP is a promising material for nasal septal perforation. Times to disappearance of residual epistaxis and residual crustation were remarkably earlier in group B in comparison with group A.
Thermal Performance Analysis of a Linear Fresnel Concentrating Solar Collector Absorber Tube
Authors: F. Okafor Izuchukwu , A. Obi Ikechukwu
Published: August 2022

Linear Fresnel solar collectors are suitable for a wide range of applications, which include steam generation for power generation, industrial process heat, solar cooling, institutional and domestic hot water production etc. The thermal performance of a linear Fresnel solar collector absorber tube was investigated in this study for different fluid mass flow rates, heat flux intensities, heat transfer fluid inlet temperatures, ambient air temperatures and external loss heat transfer rate. Turbulent flow liquid water heat transfer fluid and uniform circumferential heat flux distribution boundary were considered under steady-state conditions. The fluid flow was considered incompressible. This study was limited to a first order model approximation for thermal performance of a linear Fresnel solar collector absorber tube. The heat transfer fluid and absorber tube material properties were considered constant and independent of temperature. The results indicated that the absorber tube outlet heat transfer fluid temperature decreased with an increase in the Reynolds number and increased with the heat flux intensities. Thermal efficiency increased with an increase in the heat transfer fluid mass flow rate and however, decreased with increase in pressure drop and the consequent pumping power requirement. It was also found that the thermal efficiency of the collector decreased with an increase in the fluid bulk inlet temperature and decreased with an increase in the external loss heat transfer rate.
Tolerability of COVID-19 Infection and Messenger RNA Vaccination Among Patients With a History of Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Beckley Mikayla , Olson Aaron K. , Portman Michael A.
Published: August 2022

Importance

Kawasaki disease (KD) symptoms significantly overlap with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children due to COVID-19. Patients with KD may be at risk for adverse outcomes from exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination.

Objective

To describe the outcomes of patients with KD to SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case series evaluated 2 cohorts using an existing KD database and reviewed individual electronic medical records for the period spanning January 1, 2020, through January 31, 2022, via electronic medical records that include Washington state immunization records. Vaccine cohort inclusion criteria consisted of being 21 years or younger at immunization and receiving 1 or more BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) or messenger RNA (mRNA)–1273 (Moderna) vaccine doses. The COVID-19 cohort included patients 21 years or younger with positive polymerase chain reaction or nuclear capsid IgG findings for SARS-CoV-2. Participants included 826 patients from a preexisting KD database. One hundred fifty-three patients received at least 1 BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 vaccine dose and were included in the mRNA vaccine cohort. Thirty-seven patients had positive test results for SARS-CoV-2 and were included in the COVID-19 cohort.

Exposures

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and/or infection.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Adverse events after mRNA vaccination and/or COVID-19, including clinician visits, emergency department encounters, or hospitalizations.

Results

Among the 153 patients included in the mRNA vaccination cohort (mean [SD] age, 13.0 [4.3] years; 94 male [61.4%]), the BNT162b2 vaccine was provided for 143 (93.5%), and the remaining 10 (6.5%) received mRNA-1273 or a combination of both. Among patients in the vaccine cohort, 129 (84.3%) were fully vaccinated or received a third-dose booster. No clinically severe adverse events occurred, and there were no reports of vaccine-related hospitalizations or outpatient visits. The COVID-19 cohort included 37 patients (mean [SD] age, 11.0 [5.5] years; 22 male [59.5%]). No patients required hospitalization due to COVID-19. The most common symptoms included low-grade fever, fatigue, cough, and myalgia with resolution within a few days. Two patients, aged 9 and 19 years, had extended cough and fatigue for 3 to 4 weeks. One patient developed COVID-19 within 6 weeks of receiving intravenous immunoglobulin for KD.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that the mRNA vaccines may be safe and COVID-19 may not be severe for patients with a history of KD.
His‐163 is a stereospecific proton donor in the mechanism of d‐glucosaminate‐6‐phosphate ammonia‐lyase
Authors: Phillips Robert S. , Anderson Kaitlin L. , Gresham Declan
Published: August 2022

d‐Glucosaminate‐6‐phosphate ammonia‐lyase (DGL) catalyzes the conversion of d‐glucosaminate‐6‐phosphate to 2‐keto‐3‐deoxyglutarate‐6‐phosphate, with stereospecific protonation of C‐3 of the product. The crystal structure of DGL showed that His‐163 could serve as the proton donor. H163A mutant DGL is fully active in the steady‐state reaction, and the pre‐steady‐state kinetics are very similar to those of wild‐type DGL. However, H163A DGL accumulates a transient intermediate with λmax at 293 nm during the reaction that is not seen with wild‐type DGL. Furthermore, NMR analysis of the reaction of H163A DGL in D2O shows that the product is a mixture of deuterated diastereomers at C‐3. These results establish that His‐163 is the proton donor in the reaction mechanism of DGL.
On the Stability of Non‐fullerene Acceptors and Their Corresponding Organic Solar Cells: Influence of Side Chains
Authors: Zhou Bojun , Wang Liang , Liu Yang , Guo Chuanhang , Li Donghui , Cai Jinlong , Fu Yiwei , Chen Chen , Liu Dan , Zhou Yinhua , Li Wei , Wang Tao
Published: August 2022

Side chain engineering is a widely explored strategy in the molecular design for non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs). Although the relationship between side chain structures and optoelectronic properties of NFAs is well clarified, the effect of side chain structures on the stability of NFAs and their corresponding organic solar cells (OSCs) is rarely reported. Herein, a series of Y‐family NFAs with varying side‐chains are studied to investigate their degradation upon multiple stresses including water, oxygen from ambient, chemical environment from ZnO electron transport layer, temperature, and ultraviolet light. The results show that all of these Y‐family NFAs are highly stable against water and oxygen in ambient dark condition, while their photochemical and thermal stabilities decrease with the increasing side chain length. NFAs with shorter side chains are not only more resistant to photo‐oxidation and photocatalytic reactions, but also can hamper the formation of large phase‐separated NFA domains upon storage in both glovebox and ambient conditions. As such, the PM6:NFA OSC with short side‐chain NFA also exhibits superior operational stability, associating with a higher T80 lifetime. This study demonstrates that the side chains must be considered to obtain stable OSCs.
The Unprecedented Highest‐Layer‐Number Ferroelectric Semiconductor of 2D Homologous Single‐Phase Perovskites Tailored by Regulating Thickness of Inorganic Frameworks
Authors: Guo Wuqian , Xu Haojie , Ma Yu , Liu Yi , Wang Beibei , Tang Liwei , Hua Lina , Luo Junhua , Sun Zhihua
Published: August 2022

Ferroelectric semiconductors represent an exciting branch of new‐generation optoelectronic devices. However, regarding severe polarization deterioration caused by leakage current, it is challenging to couple ferroelectricity and semiconductive properties in a single‐phase material. The first quadrilayered ferroelectric semiconductor of 2D homologous perovskites, IA2Cs3Pb4Br13 (IA = isoamylammonium), showing distinctive ferroelectric characteristics of symmetry breaking at 351 K and large polarization of 4.2 µC cm‐2 is presented here. The design strategy of increasing layer‐number endows higher Curie temperature and superior semiconductor merits than other lower‐layered members (IA2Csn‐1PbnBr3n+1, n = 1–3). Bulk photovoltaic effects in IA2Cs3Pb4Br13 result in a notable dichroism up to ≈1.2 for self‐driven polarized‐light detection. This unprecedented study opens an avenue toward the targeted performance optimization of electric‐ordered functional materials.
Fluid Field Modulation in Mass Transfer for Efficient Photocatalysis
Authors: Dai Baoying , Zhou Yihao , Xiao Xiao , Chen Yukai , Guo Jiahao , Gao Chenchen , Xie Yannan , Chen Jun
Published: August 2022

Mass transfer is an essential factor determining photocatalytic performance, which can be modulated by fluid field via manipulating the kinetic characteristics of photocatalysts and photocatalytic intermediates. Past decades have witnessed the efforts and achievements made in manipulating mass transfer based on photocatalyst structure and composition design, and thus, a critical survey that scrutinizes the recent progress in this topic is urgently necessitated. This review examines the basic principles of how mass transfer behavior impacts photocatalytic activity accompanying with the discussion on theoretical simulation calculation including fluid flow speed and pattern. Meanwhile, newly emerged viable photocatalytic micro/nanomotors with self‐thermophoresis, self‐diffusiophoresis, and bubble‐propulsion mechanisms as well as magnet‐actuated photocatalytic artificial cilia for facilitating mass transfer will be covered. Furthermore, their applications in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, carbon dioxide reduction, organic pollution degradation, bacteria disinfection and so forth are scrutinized. Finally, a brief summary and future outlook are presented, providing a viable guideline to those working in photocatalysis, mass transfer, and other related fields.
Long‐Life Sulfide All‐Solid‐State Battery Enabled by Substrate‐Modulated Dry‐Process Binder
Authors: Li Yongxing , Wu Yujing , Ma Tenghuan , Wang Zhixuan , Gao Qifa , Xu Jieru , Chen Liquan , Li Hong , Wu Fan
Published: August 2022

Sulfide all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) have been widely acknowledged as next‐generation energy‐storage devices due to their improved safety performance and potentially high energy density. Among the various fabrication methods of sulfide ASSBs, solvent‐free dry‐film processes have unique advantages including reduced costs, suppressed film delamination, thick electrodes, and high compatibility with sulfide solid electrolytes (SEs). However, the currently dominating binder for dry‐film process polytetrafluoroethylene suffers from poor voltage stability and low viscosity, which leads to low Coulombic efficiency and poor cycling stability of sulfide ASSBs. Herein, a specially‐designed treatment is developed to obtain a new type of dry binder, styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR), exploiting paraxylene and a NaCl substrate to dissolve and re‐precipitate SBR for controlling its stacking state, micro‐structure/morphology, density, and dispersion performance. The SE membrane prepared using this processed SBR exhibits ultra‐high ionic conductivity (2.34 mS cm‐1), contributing to excellent cycle stability of the corresponding sulfide ASSB (>84% capacity retention after 600 cycles at 0.3C).
Ponatinib after failure of second‐generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor in resistant chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Kantarjian Hagop M. , Jabbour Elias , Deininger Michael , Abruzzese Elisabetta , Apperley Jane , Cortes Jorge , Chuah Charles , DeAngelo Daniel J. , DiPersio John , Hochhaus Andreas , Lipton Jeffrey , Nicolini Franck E. , Pinilla‐Ibarz Javier , Rea Delphine , Rosti Gianantonio , Rousselot Philippe , Shah Neil P. , Talpaz Moshe , Srivastava Shouryadeep , Ren Xiaowei , Mauro Michael
Published: August 2022

Ponatinib, the only third‐generation pan‐BCR::ABL1 inhibitor with activity against all known BCR::ABL1 mutations including T315I, has demonstrated deep and durable responses in patients with chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CP‐CML) resistant to prior second‐generation (2G) TKI treatment. We present efficacy and safety outcomes from the Ponatinib Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) and CML Evaluation (PACE) and Optimizing Ponatinib Treatment in CP‐CML (OPTIC) trials for this patient population. PACE (NCT01207440) evaluated ponatinib 45 mg/day in CML patients with resistance to prior TKI or T315I. In OPTIC (NCT02467270), patients with CP‐CML and resistance to ≥2 prior TKIs or T315I receiving 45 or 30 mg/day reduced their doses to 15 mg/day upon achieving ≤1% BCR::ABL1IS or received 15 mg/day continuously. Efficacy and safety outcomes from patients with CP‐CML treated with ≥1 2G TKI (PACE, n = 257) and OPTIC (n = 93), 45‐mg starting dose cohort, were analyzed for BCR::ABL1IS response rates, overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and safety. By 24 months, the percentages of patients with ≤1% BCR::ABL1IS response, PFS, and OS were 46%, 68%, and 85%, respectively, in PACE and 57%, 80%, and 91%, respectively, in OPTIC. Serious treatment‐emergent adverse events and serious treatment‐emergent arterial occlusive event rates were 63% and 18% in PACE and 34% and 4% in OPTIC. Ponatinib shows high response rates and robust survival outcomes in patients whose disease failed prior to 2G TKIs, including patients with T315I mutation. The response‐based dosing in OPTIC led to improved safety and similar efficacy outcomes compared with PACE.
Assessing co‐occurring mental health conditions in a multidisciplinary Down syndrome clinic and the role of family history
Authors: Raffaele Gabriella , Blout Zawatsky Carrie L. , Cottrell Clorinda , Santoro Stephanie L.
Published: August 2022

Compared to the general population, individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at a significantly increased risk to develop mental health conditions. This study sought to examine individuals with DS and co‐existing mental health comorbidities at one DS specialty clinic. Retrospective chart review of medical records including demographics, genetic testing history, personal and familial mental health history, referrals for mental health indications, and recommendations was performed. Summary statistics, logistic regression, and log of odds were converted to odd ratios to assess associations and significance. The charts of 327 patients, average 19.4 years of age (1–70), were reviewed. Nearly half the participants (42.2%) had at least one diagnosis of a mental health condition. Those with a family history were significantly more likely to have a personal diagnosis of a mental health condition than those without a family history (p < 0.01). Moreover, those who completed referrals often received medical management recommendations (86%). This study highlights the prevalence of mental health comorbidities among individuals with DS, and the referral process for mental health conditions, at one DS specialty clinic. Further research is needed to investigate our family history findings, and to determine if these results are generalizable across other DS clinics.
CELSR1 variants are associated with partial epilepsy of childhood
Authors: Chen Zheng , Luo Sheng , Liu Zhi‐Gang , Deng Yan‐Chun , He Su‐Li , Liu Xiao‐Rong , Yi Yong‐Hong , Wang Jie , Gao Liang‐Di , Li Bing‐Mei , Wu Zhi‐Jun , Ye Zi‐Long , Liang De‐Hai , Bian Wen‐Jun , Liao Wei‐Ping ,   For the China Epilepsy Gene 1.0 Project
Published: August 2022

CELSR1 gene, encoding cadherin EGF LAG seven‐pass G‐type receptor 1, is mainly expressed in neural stem cells during the embryonic period. It plays an important role in neurodevelopment. However, the relationship between CELSR1 and disease of the central nervous system has not been defined. In this study, we performed trios‐based whole‐exome sequencing in a cohort of 356 unrelated cases with partial epilepsy without acquired causes and identified CELSR1 variants in six unrelated cases. The variants included one de novo heterozygous nonsense variant, one de novo heterozygous missense variant, and four compound heterozygous missense variants that had one variant was located in the extracellular region and the other in the cytoplasm. The patients with biallelic variants presented severe epileptic phenotypes, whereas those with heterozygous variants were associated with a mild epileptic phenotype of benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS). These variants had no or low allele frequency in the gnomAD database. The frequencies of the CELSR1 variants in this cohort were significantly higher than those in the control populations. The evidence from ClinGen Clinical‐Validity Framework suggested a strong association between CELSR1 variants and epilepsy. These findings provide evidence that CELSR1 is potentially a candidate pathogenic gene of partial epilepsy of childhood.
Design Strategies for Responsive Fluorine‐19 Magnetic Resonance Probes Using Paramagnetic Metal Complexes
Authors: Ryan Raphael T. , Scott Kathleen M. , Que Emily L.
Published: August 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful and widely used in vivo imaging technique that enables whole body imaging without ionizing radiation. In clinical practice, 1H MRI is employed for imaging anatomical and physiological states via monitoring of protons in water and lipids. In order to monitor biochemical processes at the molecular level, several research groups are exploring responsive MRI agents that alter their signal upon interaction with an analyte or biological environment of interest. Fluorine (19F) MRI agents are promising due to the 19F nucleus having similar magnetic resonance (MR) properties to proton and the absence of endogenous 19F in living systems, resulting in no background signal. In order to make responsive 19F MR agents for molecular imaging and analysis, fluorinated platforms must be developed in which their 19F MR signal changes after interacting with a target analyte. A promising strategy is to use paramagnetic metals to modulate the 19F MR signal by altering the relaxation rates and/or chemical shift of an appended 19F imaging tag. In this concept, we provide an overview of the theoretical principles and molecular design strategies that have been exploited in the design of responsive 19F MR agents, with a specific focus on agents based on small molecule paramagnetic metal ion chelates.
Measurement of Protein Dynamics from Site Directed Cu(II) Labeling
Authors: Singewald Kevin , Hunter Hannah , Cunningham Timothy F. , Ruthstein Sharon , Saxena Sunil
Published: August 2022

This review describes the use of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) to measure residue specific dynamics in proteins with a specific focus on Cu(II)‐based spin labels. First, we outline approaches used to measure protein motion by nitroxide‐based spin labels. Here, we describe conceptual details and outline challenges that limit the use of nitroxide spin labels to solvent‐exposed α‐helical sites. The bulk of this review showcases the use of newly developed Cu(II)‐based protein labels. In this approach, the strategic mutation of native residues on a protein to generate two neighboring Histidine residues (i.e., the dHis motif) is exploited to enable a rigid site‐selective binding of a Cu(II) complex. The chelation of the Cu(II) complex to dHis directly anchors the Cu(II) spin label to the protein backbone. The improvement in rigidity expands both the spin‐labeling toolkit as well as the resolution of many EPR measurements. We describe how EPR measurements of the Cu(II) label directly reflect backbone motion and fluctuations. The EPR are complemented by Molecular Dynamics simulations. Finally, the dHis motif provides access to the measurement of site‐specific dynamics at both α‐helices and β‐sheets. The review outlines the limitations of the dHis method and provides an outlook for future developments.
Composition and process approaches that underpin the mechanical properties of oleogels
Authors: Barroso Noádia Genuario , Santos Matheus Augusto Silva , Okuro Paula Kiyomi , Cunha Rosiane Lopes
Published: August 2022

Consumers are becoming aware of the relevance of eating low levels of trans and saturated fats in processed foods. In addition, many countries are adopting regulatory measures on the use of these ingredients. For this reason, the exploration of new technologies capable of producing structures that trap liquid oil (composed mainly of unsaturated fatty acids, which are considered healthier) has been widely investigated to replace saturated and trans fats in food products. One of the most promising technologies is the so‐called oleogels, which present a great challenge to mimic sensory attributes related to the texture of processed foods based on saturated fats. In this review, we discuss the influence of the production methods (direct or indirect) and composition of the oleogels on their mechanical properties that are related to the texture. An overview of the parameters that can interfere with these properties contributes to a better understanding of the building of the oleogels and their possible applications.
Synthesis of low‐costing 4A‐zeolite and stabilization of heavy metals from municipal solid waste incineration fly ash and activated red mud
Authors: Ma Wenjun , Liang Zhiyuan , Liu Mengshun , Xu Zhiwen , Zhao Qinxin
Published: August 2022

To handle the increasing environmental issues caused by red mud and municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash, an integrated technology for its comprehensive utilization was developed through the activation of red mud followed by synthesis of 4A‐zeolite. Three influencing factors on the thermal‐alkali activation effect of red mud were investigated. Afterwards, activated red mud was combined with fly ash to synthesize 4A‐zeolite and solidify heavy metal simultaneously. The results indicated that the maximum extraction ratios of Si (57.77%) and Al (76.34%) from red mud were achieved at the NaOH/red mud mass ratio of 1.8, alkali fusion temperature of 800°C, and alkali fusion time of 120 min. Furthermore, the mixture of activated red mud and MSWI fly ash could be served as low‐costing raw materials to synthesize zeolite products with a compact structure. The solidification effect of typical heavy metals could meet GB 16889–2008 and HJ/300–2007 completely. Especially, the solidification efficiency for Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd could reach 98.23%, 99.09%, 99.72%, and 98.21%, respectively. This paper not only solved the red mud accumulation and heavy metal pollution caused by fly ash under a relatively low‐temperature environment but also synthesized zeolite products containing huge economic benefits.
High‐performance electric heating yarns based on graphene‐coated cotton fibers
Authors: Wu Bo , Liu Yu , Yu Hong
Published: August 2022

Graphene and graphene‐based materials can emit far‐infrared light with a wavelength of 6–14 μm that are beneficial to the human body when subjected low voltage, which have attracted much attention. However, the most previously reported heating devices based on graphene materials are thin films; therefore, there are a series of problems such as poor air permeability, difficulty in integration with clothing, and uncomfortable wearing. In this work, a simple ultrasonic dip‐coating method is used to prepare the electric heating yarns based on graphene‐coated cotton fibers, where the high‐performance hybrid yarns can be driven at a safe voltage. The number of ultrasonic dip‐coating and the linear density of the yarns have shown the great influence on electric heating performance. After three ultrasonic dip‐coatings, the temperature of the hybrid yarn with 3.5 mm diameter and 10 cm length can reach ~70°C at a voltage of 20 V, while the heating power is only ~2.5 W. Our studies have demonstrated the potential of hybrid yarns which can be used in the field of heating clothing or medical care.
Identifying the landscape of developmental toxicity new approach methodologies
Authors: Becker Richard A. , Bianchi Enrica , LaRocca Jessica , Marty Mary Sue , Mehta Vatsal
Published: August 2022

Background

The dynamics and complexities of in utero fetal development create significant challenges in transitioning from lab animal‐centric developmental toxicity testing methods to assessment strategies based on new approach methodologies (NAMs). Nevertheless, considerable progress is being made, stimulated by increased research investments and scientific advances, such as induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived models. To help identify developmental toxicity NAMs for toxicity screening and potential funding through the American Chemistry Council's Long‐Range Research Initiative, a systematic literature review was conducted to better understand the current landscape of developmental toxicity NAMs.

Methods

Scoping review tools were used to systematically survey the literature (2010–2021; ~18,000 references identified), results and metadata were then extracted, and a user‐friendly interactive dashboard was created.

Results

The data visualization dashboard, developed using Tableau® software, is provided as a free, open‐access web tool. This dashboard enables straightforward interactive queries and visualizations to identify trends and to distinguish and understand areas or NAMs where research has been most, or least focused.

Conclusions

Herein, we describe the approach and methods used, summarize the benefits and challenges of applying the systematic‐review techniques, and highlight the types of questions and answers for which the dashboard can be used to explore the many different facets of developmental toxicity NAMs.
Green manufacturing for sustainable development: The positive effects of green activities, green investments, and non‐green products on economic performance
Authors: D'Angelo Viviana , Cappa Francesco , Peruffo Enzo
Published: August 2022

This article explores the impact of green manufacturing practices, disentangled in green activities, green investments, and the type of product made, on the economic performance of firms. Using survey data collected by European Commission from European small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), we adopt the self‐determination theory to investigate the extent to which the number of green activities, green investments, and type of product made affects a firm's economic performance. We argue that consumers are affected by firms' green manufacturing practices in response to the pressing environmental issues affecting our era. Our results reveal that while the number of green activities has a positive effect on economic performance, the amount of green manufacturing investments has an inverted U‐shaped relationship to economic performance and that this effect is positively moderated if a company also sells non‐green products. Our study contributes to the literature on green manufacturing by dissecting the effect of green manufacturing practices on a company's economic performance. Our findings also provide managers with advice on the right balance of green practices that most benefit their companies.
Porous Heteroatom‐Doped Carbons: Efficient Catalysts for Selective Oxidation of Alcohols by Activated Persulfate
Authors: Oliveira Rafael L. , Nicinski Krzysztof , Pisarek Marcin , Kaminska Agnieszka , Thomas Arne , Pasternak Grzegorz , Colmenares Juan C.
Published: August 2022

Aldehydes are essential chemicals for industrial feedstock. However, the traditional processes to produce these chemicals face many limitations, such as waste generation, low selectivity, or high cost. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of a group of porous heteroatom (P, B or N)‐doped carbons and their use as catalysts for the oxidation of primary alcohols by activating peroxydisulfate. Among the heteroatom‐doped carbons, porous N‐doped carbons pyrolyzed at 700 or 800 °C show the highest activity. Experimental studies were performed suggesting a considerable contribution of a non‐radical oxidation process. Furthermore, N‐doped carbons can act as a catalyst in the oxidation of a large substrate scope of substituted alcohols.
Simulation of Droplet Formation in T‐Inlet Microchannels with Different Junction Angle
Authors: Yang Qingjun , Cao Wang , Mao Qi
Published: August 2022

The level set method was used to numerically simulate the droplet formation process in T‐junction microchannels with different junction angle. The effects of flow rate ratio, capillary number, and contact angle on droplet formation under different junction angles were discussed. The numerical simulation results show that the dimensionless length and generation frequency of microdroplets increase with the flow rate ratio. It was observed that the droplet transforms from the squeezing regime to the dripping regime when the capillary number Ca is ≥ 0.02. For Ca ≤ 0.04, the smallest droplet was generated in the microchannel with 120° junction angle. Finally, the results also indicate that the effect of the contact angle is discrepant at different junction angles.
Risk of autism spectrum disorders and prenatal exposure to epilepsy drugs
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2022

Five in 1000 pregnant women require antiseizure medication (ASM), but little is known about the effects on the developing child. It is known that discontinuing the medication before or during pregnancy is associated with uncontrolled seizures and increased maternal mortality.
AMA survey finds patients do not want their information sold
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2022

The eroding confidentiality of medical information — all of it, not just that relating to substance use disorders (SUDs) — is a major concern of patients, a survey by the American Medical Association (AMA) has found.
Previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or a third dose of vaccine elicited cross‐variant neutralising antibodies in vaccinated solid‐organ transplant recipients
Authors: Chang Chih‐Chao , Vlad George , Vasilescu Elena Rodica , Li Ping , Husain Syed A , Silvia Elaine A , Cohen David J , Ratner Lloyd E , Sun Wei‐Zen , Mohan Sumit , Suciu‐Foca Nicole
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic poses a great threat to global health, particularly in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs). A 3‐dose mRNA vaccination protocol has been implemented for the majority of SOTRs, yet their immune responses are less effective compared to healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

We analyzed the humoral immune responses against the vaccine strain and variants of concern (VOC), including the highly mutated‐omicron variant in 113 SOTRs, of whom 44 had recovered from COVID‐19 (recovered‐SOTRs) and 69 had not contracted the virus (COVID‐naïve). In addition, 30 HCs, 8 of whom had recovered from COVID‐19, were also studied.

Results

Here, we report that three doses of the mRNA vaccine had only a modest effect in eliciting anti‐viral antibodies against all viral strains in the fully vaccinated COVID‐naive SOTRs (n = 47). Only 34.0% of this group of patients demonstrated both detectable anti‐RBD IgG with neutralization activities against alpha, beta, and delta variants, and only 8.5% of them showed additional omicron neutralizing capacities. In contrast, 79.5% of the recovered‐SOTRs who received two doses of vaccine demonstrated both higher anti‐RBD IgG levels and neutralizing activities against all VOC, including omicron.

Conclusion

These findings illustrate a significant impact of previous infection on the development of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 immune responses in vaccinated SOTRs and highlight the need for alternative strategies to protect a subset of a lesser‐vaccine responsive population.
Disorder or a new order: How climate change affects phenological variability
Authors: Stemkovski Michael , Bell James R. , Ellwood Elizabeth R. , Inouye Brian D. , Kobori Hiromi , Lee Sang Don , Lloyd‐Evans Trevor , Primack Richard B. , Templ Barbara , Pearse William D.
Published: August 2022

Advancing spring phenology is a well documented consequence of anthropogenic climate change, but it is not well understood how climate change will affect the variability of phenology year to year. Species' phenological timings reflect the adaptation to a broad suite of abiotic needs (e.g., thermal energy) and biotic interactions (e.g., predation and pollination), and changes in patterns of variability may disrupt those adaptations and interactions. Here, we present a geographically and taxonomically broad analysis of phenological shifts, temperature sensitivity, and changes in interannual variability encompassing nearly 10,000 long‐term phenology time series representing more than 1000 species across much of the Northern Hemisphere. We show that the timings of leaf‐out, flowering, insect first‐occurrence, and bird arrival were the most sensitive to temperature variation and have advanced at the fastest pace for early‐season species in colder and less seasonal regions. We did not find evidence for changing variability in warmer years in any phenophase groups, although leaf‐out and flower phenology have become moderately but significantly less variable over time. Our findings suggest that climate change has not to this point fundamentally altered the patterns of interannual phenological variability.
Changepoint detection in autocorrelated ordinal categorical time series
Authors: Li Mo , Lu QiQi
Published: August 2022

This article considers changepoint detection in serially correlated categorical time series. While changepoint aspects in correlated sequences of continuous random variables have been extensively explored in the literature, changepoint methods for independent categorical time series are only now coming into vogue. This study extends changepoint methods by developing techniques for correlated categorical time series. Here, a cumulative sum type test is devised to test for a single changepoint in a correlated categorical data sequence. Our categorical series is constructed from a latent Gaussian process through clipping techniques. A sequential parameter estimation method is proposed to estimate the parameters in this model. The methods are illustrated via simulations and applied to a real categorized rainfall time series from Albuquerque, New Mexico.