bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The spiral of disadvantage: Ethnolinguistic discrimination, acculturative stress and health in Nahua indigenous communities in Mexico
Authors: Olko Justyna , Galbarczyk Andrzej , Maryniak Joanna , Krzych‐Miłkowska Karolina , Tepec Humberto Iglesias , de la Cruz Eduardo , Dexter‐Sobkowiak Elwira , Jasienska Grazyna
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that ethnic and ethnolinguistic discrimination, and Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) related to being Indigenous as well as different aspects of acculturative stress, are associated with poorer health and higher levels of depression among the Nahua Indigenous communities.

Materials and methods

Our quantitative survey was carried out in four different regions inhabited by the Nahua people in Mexico. Self‐rated health and depression, the symptoms of PTSD, two facets of acculturative stress and ethnolinguistic discrimination were assessed by questionnaires. The data were analyzed using binary logistic regression models.

Results

The symptoms of PTSD and acculturative stress experienced in the workplace were significantly associated with a higher risk of poor self‐rated health, adjusted for various socio‐demographic characteristics. Acculturative stress, discouragement of language use, language avoidance and ethnolinguistic discrimination were related to a higher risk of depression and PTSD.

Discussion

Our research implies that ethnic and linguistic discrimination, acculturative stress and the memory of harm linked to being Indigenous reflected in the symptoms of PTSD, are important predictors of poorer health and depression among Nahua groups in Mexico. These adverse effects could be significantly counteracted by effective dealing with stigmatization and discrimination against Indigenous people in Mexico and by replacing strong assimilation pressures with integrational approaches that respect ethnolinguistic diversity and reduce socioeconomic marginalization.
Access to Polysulfides through Photocatalyzed Dithiosulfonylation
Authors: Ren Xiaorui , Ke Qiumin , Zhou Yuanyuan , Jiao Jingchao , Li Guoxin , Cao Si , Wang Xuyong , Gao Qianwen , Wang Xi
Published: April 2023

In this study, we outline a general method for photocatalyzed difunctionalization of alkenes, a diene, alkynes, 1,3‐enynes, and [1.1.1]propellane using dithiosulfonate reagents (ArSO2‐SSR) with improved atom economy. Both “ArSO2‐” and “‐SSR” on the dithiosulfonate are transferred under mild conditions with broad substrate scope, high stereoselectivity, and complete regioselectivity. Significantly, the resulting dithiosulfonylated styrene is a general and practical nucleophilic disulfuration reagent, reacting with a variety of electrophiles efficiently. Both reactions can be conducted on gram scale, rendering the approach highly valuable.
Überwinden von Diffusionslimitierungen Faradayscher Reaktionen: Eigenschafts‐Wirkungsbeziehungen der 2D‐leitfähigen metallorganischen Gerüstverbindung Cu3(HHTP)2 für die reversible Lithium‐Ionen Speicherung
Authors: Wrogemann Jens Matthies , Lüther Marco Joes , Bärmann Peer , Lounasvuori Mailis , Javed Ali , Tiemann Michael , Golnak Ronny , Xiao Jie , Petit Tristan , Placke Tobias , Winter Martin
Published: April 2023

Faradaysche Prozesse, die mit einem Ladungsübergang einhergehen, unterliegen häufig einer Diffusionslimitierung im Festkörper. Leitfähige zweidimensionale metallorganische Gerüstverbindungen (2D MOFs) mit schnellem Ionentransport können jedoch beides kombinieren – Ladungstransfer und schnelle Diffusion innerhalb ihrer porösen Struktur. Um die verbleibenden Diffusionsbeschränkungen, die durch die Partikelmorphologie verursacht werden, zu untersuchen, werden verschiedene Synthesewege von Cu‐2,3,6,7,10,11‐Hexahydroxytriphenylen (Cu3(HHTP)2), einem kupferbasierten 2D‐MOF, verwendet, um flocken‐ und stäbchenförmige MOF‐Partikel herzustellen. Beide Morphologien werden systematisch charakterisiert und für die redoxaktive Speicherung von Li+‐Ionen evaluiert. Der Redoxmechanismus wird mit Hilfe von Röntgenabsorptionsspektroskopie, FTIR‐Spektroskopie und in situ XRD untersucht. Zudem werden beide Strukturen hinsichtlich ihrer kinetischen Eigenschaften für die Speicherung von Li+‐Ionen mittels Zyklovoltammetrie und Impedanzspektroskopie verglichen, wobei ein signifikanter Einfluss der Partikelmorphologie für 2D‐MOFs auf kinetische Aspekte der elektrochemischen Li+‐Ionenspeicherung festgestellt wird. Diese Studie zeigt Lösungsansätze für die Optimierung redoxaktiver, poröser Strukturen auf, um Diffusionsbeschränkungen Faradayscher Prozesse zu überwinden.
Mesoionic Carbene‐Catalyzed Formyl Alkylation of Aldehydes
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhang Zengyu , Zhao Liang‐Liang , Bertrand Guy , Yan Xiaoyu
Published: April 2023

Ketones are among the most useful functional groups in organic synthesis, and they are commonly encountered in a broad range of compounds with various applications. Herein, we describe the mesoionic carbene‐catalyzed coupling reaction of aldehydes with non‐activated secondary and even primary alkyl halides. This metal‐free method utilizes deprotonated Breslow intermediates derived from mesoionic carbenes (MICs), which act as super electron donors and induce the single‐electron reduction of alkyl halides. This mild coupling reaction has a broad substrate scope and tolerates many functional groups, which allows to prepare a diversity of simple ketones as well as bio‐active molecules by late‐stage functionalization.
A General and Practical Route to Functionalized Bicyclo[1.1.1]Pentane‐Heteroaryls Enabled by Photocatalytic Multicomponent Heteroarylation of [1.1.1]Propellane
Authors: Huang Weichen , Keess Sebastian , Molander Gary A.
Published: April 2023

1‐Aryl‐substituted bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs) are an important class of BCP derivatives with widespread application in drug development. Most syntheses of these materials require multiple chemical steps via BCP electrophiles or nucleophiles derived from [1.1.1]propellane. Although one‐step, multicomponent radical cross‐coupling reactions could provide a more sustainable and rapid route to access diverse heteroarylated BCPs, current approaches are limited to tertiary alkyl radicals, leading to a decrease in their practical value. In this study, a conceptually different approach enabled by a radical multicomponent heteroarylation of [1.1.1]propellane to access functionalized heteroarylated BCPs is described. Importantly, this protocol is compatible with primary‐, secondary‐, and tertiary aliphatic radicals, as well as various fluoroalkyl radical sources, thus enabling rapid library generation of sought‐after BCP derivatives for drug development.
Overcoming Diffusion Limitation of Faradaic Processes: Property‐Performance Relationships of 2D Conductive Metal‐Organic Framework Cu3(HHTP)2 for Reversible Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Wrogemann Jens Matthies , Lüther Marco Joes , Bärmann Peer , Lounasvuori Mailis , Javed Ali , Tiemann Michael , Golnak Ronny , Xiao Jie , Petit Tristan , Placke Tobias , Winter Martin
Published: April 2023

Faradaic reactions including charge transfer are often accompanied with diffusion limitation inside the bulk. Conductive two‐dimensional frameworks (2D MOFs) with a fast ion transport can combine both—charge transfer and fast diffusion inside their porous structure. To study remaining diffusion limitations caused by particle morphology, different synthesis routes of Cu‐2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexahydroxytriphenylene (Cu3(HHTP)2), a copper‐based 2D MOF, are used to obtain flake‐ and rod‐like MOF particles. Both morphologies are systematically characterized and evaluated for redox‐active Li+ ion storage. The redox mechanism is investigated by means of X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy and in situ XRD. Both types are compared regarding kinetic properties for Li+ ion storage via cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy. A significant influence of particle morphology for 2D MOFs on kinetic aspects of electrochemical Li+ ion storage can be observed. This study opens the path for optimization of redox active porous structures to overcome diffusion limitations of Faradaic processes.
Effect of secondary vulcanization process on hydrophobic properties of fluororubber
Authors: Xu Zehua , Zhang Yanbin , Wang Xiaosen , Li Kangshuai , He Qiang
Published: April 2023

In order to study the influence of two‐stage vulcanization process on the hydrophobic characteristics of FKM, superhydrophobic surfaces were prepared based on template method (1000 mesh screen, 1600 mesh screen and 2000 mesh screen), and six kinds of FKM with micro‐rough surface were prepared by one‐stage vulcanization and two‐stage vulcanization process, respectively. At first, the influence of two‐stage vulcanization process on the physical and chemical properties of FKM was illustrated by characterizing the two‐dimensional convex structure, three‐dimensional roughness and chemical functional groups of FKM. Then, mechanical tests and wettability tests were carried out on different FKM prepared by primary vulcanization and secondary vulcanization. The results show that the hydrophobicity of FKM prepared by secondary vulcanization is improved compared with FKM prepared by primary vulcanization, and the contact angle of FKM prepared by secondary vulcanization can reach above 165°. The secondary vulcanization process enhances the hydrophobicity of FKM mainly by increasing the longitudinal size of the convex structure on the surface of FKM, homogenizing the sizes of the convex structure and pits on the surface of FKM, and increasing the roughness of FKM surface. In addition, in the process of secondary vulcanization, the chain reaction of FKM matrix occurred. In the matrix, the hydrophilic group OH disappears, and the polar hydrophilic group becomes nonpolar hydrophobic group.
Lubricating performance of polytetrafluoroethylene hybrid fabric composites with removed thermosetting resin at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Wang Zidan , Ma Tianbao
Published: April 2023

At cryogenic temperatures, the higher friction coefficient of conventional fabric composites severely inhibits the application of hybrid polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/amide fabric composites in pivotal tribological pairs such as plain bearings operated at low temperatures. In order to improve the lubricating properties of fabric composites at cryogenic and wide temperature ranges, a novel hybrid PTFE/Nomex fabric composite is prepared by peeling off the facial phenolic formaldehyde resin through the Hot‐Press Mechanical Stripping method, which is named Phenolic Formaldehyde Mechanical Stripping (PFMS). The friction coefficient of PFMS is 0.06 at 296 K, and can be as low as 0.1 at 123 K, reduced by up to 58% compared to conventional fabric composite without resin removal. Furthermore, the friction coefficient of PFMS first increases and then decreases as the temperature decreases, the turning point falls in the range around the temperature of 181 K, corresponding to the γ relaxation transition of the PTFE. The wear of the fabric composites, the microstructure, and the chemical composition of the transfer film are comprehensively investigated. The results demonstrate that thermal activation and increased mechanical properties contribute to friction coefficient variation above and below the temperature of 181 K, respectively.
A new bio‐based flame retardant simply synthesized: Improving the flame retardancy and thermal stability of low‐density polyethylene together with melamine cyanurate
Authors: Feng Xi , Wang Zhengyu , Ma Hongli , Dang Bo , Li Jianxi
Published: April 2023

A novel bio‐based flame retardant, MHPA, was synthesized with magnesium hydroxide (MH) and phytic acid (PA) and was added to low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) with melamine cyanurate (MCA) to investigate the flame retardant, mechanical property and thermal stability of the LDPE composites. The limit oxygen index (LOI) and cone calorimeter test (CCT) results showed that the combination of MHPA and MCA can increase the LOI of LDPE composite to 21.6%, and its peak of heat release rate (pHRR), total heat release (THR) and total smoke production (TSP) values reduced by 46.8%, 20%, and 31.6% respectively compared with pure LDPE, while the residue after CCT was increased to 24.4%. Moreover, the addition of MCA can effectively improve the thermal stability of LDPE/MHPA composites and suppress their early decomposition.
Ru(II)‐Catalyzed Oxidative Cross‐Dehydrogenative Alkenylations of Aromatic Amides and Ketones with Unactivated Olefins
Authors: Giri Chandan Kumar , Mondal Sudeshna , Baidya Mahiuddin
Published: April 2023

A weak coordination guided Ru(II)‐catalyzed oxidative functionalization of arenes with unactivated olefins is developed, offering a wide variety of ortho‐alkenylated benzamides, acetophenones, and benzophenone in high yields. The protocol accommodates several bioactive molecules and allows downstream synthetic manipulations leading to a 2,3‐benzodiazepine scaffold. The reaction features a reversible metalation step and favors a regioselective β‐hydride elimination event.
Ruling out feigned crime‐related amnesia? A response to Acklin (2022)
Authors: Rubenzer Steven James
Published: April 2023

In a recent paper, Acklin discussed a case of possible amnesia for a murder in terms of neurobiology, psychoanalysis, and personality assessment. Acklin accepted the defendant's claim of amnesia for the crime as genuine. The considerable literature that takes a skeptical view of crime‐related amnesia was not cited, and the possibility of feigning or malingering was “ruled out” with a single sentence that does not withstand scrutiny. A review of the literature on feigned amnesia suggests that it may not be possible to rule out malingering even if the best available tools are used: There has been minimal investigation of most validity tests and estimates of base rates of feigned amnesia for a crime vary widely and make estimates of Negative Predictor Power highly unreliable. Although one cannot know from the information presented if Acklin's defendant legitimately experienced amnesia, feigning could not be ruled out using an interview and the test data cited by Acklin. I call for a moratorium on publication of further articles on crime specific amnesia that do not conscientiously examine other potential explanations and do not use current best practices for assessing negative response bias.
“Everything's a fight”: A qualitative study of the cancer survivorship experiences of transgender and gender diverse Australians
Authors: Lisy Karolina , Kerr Lucille , Jefford Michael , Fisher Christopher
Published: April 2023

Background

There is widespread recognition of the need to achieve equitable outcomes for all cancer survivors. This requires understanding of the experiences and outcomes of vulnerable groups. People who identify as sexually or gender diverse are known to be at risk of inferior cancer and survivorship outcomes, however, the posttreatment survivorship experiences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people have not been well studied. This study explored the survivorship experiences of people who identify as TGD, focusing on the physical and psychological aspects of the posttreatment survivorship phase and their experiences of follow‐up cancer care.

Methods

A qualitative study of 10 TGD cancer survivors. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and data were analyzed by thematic analysis.

Results

Six themes were generated from the data. TGD people reported (1) anxiety when attending appointments and avoidance of necessary follow‐up care, (2) experiences of transphobia and discrimination within oncology care settings and (3) lack of consideration of TGD identity by providers. Themes further describe (4) physical aspects of being both TGD and a cancer survivor, (5) absence of inclusive and diverse supportive care resources, as well as (6) positive growth after cancer.

Conclusion

Approaches to mitigate these issues are urgently called for. These include training in TGD health for health‐care providers, inclusion of TGD health in medical and nursing curricula, processes to collect and use gender identity and preferred pronoun data in clinical settings, and development of TGD‐inclusive information and peer‐support resources.
Cell‐Permeable Ubiquitin and Histone Tools for Studying Post‐translational Modifications
Authors: Tang Jia‐Hui , Shu Qing‐Yao , Guo Yan‐Yan , Zhu Huixia , Li Yi‐Ming
Published: April 2023

Protein post‐translational modifications (PTMs) regulate nearly all biological processes in eukaryotic cells, and synthetic PTM protein tools are widely used to detect the activity of the related enzymes and identify the interacting proteins in cell lysates. Recently, the study of these enzymes and the interacting proteome has been accomplished in live cells using cell‐permeable PTM protein tools. In this concept, we will introduce cell penetrating techniques, the syntheses of cell‐permeable PTM protein tools, and offer some future perspective.
A Fluorophore‐Labeled Lysine Dendrimer with an Oxo‐Anion‐Binding Motif for Tracking Gene Transfection
Authors: Aldemir Nazli , Vallet Cecilia , Knauer Shirley K. , Schmuck Carsten , Hirschhäuser Christoph
Published: April 2023

A transfection vector based on a peptide dendrimer (1) has been developed and its abilities for DNA binding and transport have been investigated. By attaching a fluorophore to the vector system (1*), several steps in the transfection process could be monitored directly. As DLS and AFM studies showed, the labeled vector 1* condensed DNA into tightly packed aggregates able to enter eukaryotic cells. Co‐localization experiments revealed that the ligand/plasmid complex is taken up by the endosomal pathway followed by an endosomal escape or lysosomal degradation. Afterwards, the plasmid DNA seems to enter the nucleus due to a breakdown of the nuclear envelope during mitosis, as only cells that have recently undergone mitosis showed H2B‐GFP expression.
Chemical Zymogens: Specificity and Steroidal Control of Reactivation
Authors: Casanovas Montasell Mireia , Baumann Anna , Zelikin Alexander N.
Published: April 2023

Activating and masking enzymatic activity on demand is of the highest importance in nature. It is achieved by chemical interconversion of enzymes and the corresponding zymogens through, for example, proteolytic processing or reversible phosphorylation, and affords on‐demand activation of enzymes, controlled in space and/or time. In stark contrast, examples of chemical zymogens are very few, and in most cases these are based on disulfide chemistry, which is largely indiscriminate as to the nature of the activating thiol. In this work, we address an outstanding challenge of specificity of reactivation of chemical zymogens. We achieve this through engineering affinity between the chemical zymogen and the activator. Additional, higher‐level control over zymogen reactivation is installed in a nature‐mimicking approach using steroidal hormones. Taken together, the results of this study take a step towards establishing the specificity of reactivation of synthetic, chemical zymogens. We anticipate that the results of this study will contribute significantly to the development of chemical zymogens as tools for diverse use in chemical biology and biotechnology.
Left atrial appendage occlusion using hydrogel coils in a child
Authors: Mohammad Nijres Bassel , Reinking Benjamin , Aldoss Osamah
Published: April 2023

Left atrial appendage occlusion in young children has not been reported before. Herein, we describe a successful occlusion using hydrogel coils in a toddler. The decision to occlude the appendage was made to mitigate the potential risk of systemic thromboembolism, given the child's unusual anatomy.
Disseminated ectopic pregnancy after salpingotomy in a 30‐year‐old patient
Authors: Matlac D. M. , Ribbat‐Idel J. , Stroschein K. , Perner S. , Rody A. , Offermann D.
Published: April 2023

We present a case of a 30‐year old patient who devoloped a disseminated abdominal pregnancy after receiving a salpingotomy due to a prior tubal pregnancy.
Think zinc: Transient nutritional deficiency related to novel maternal SLC30A2 mutation potentially precipitated by antenatal proton pump inhibitor exposure
Authors: Porter Emma , Molloy Oonagh , Murphy Michelle , O'Connor Cathal
Published: April 2023

A second‐born breastfed infant presented with zinc deficiency. His mother had a novel heterozygous mutation in SLC30A2. A previous baby did not have zinc deficiency but the mother had taken a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) during the second pregnancy. Antenatal PPI exposure may plausibly contribute to transient infantile zinc deficiency.
Reversible Pressure‐Magnetic Modulation in a Tetrathiafulvalene‐Based Dyad Piezochromic Dysprosium Single‐Molecule Magnet**
Authors: Pointillart Fabrice , Flores Gonzalez Jessica , Douib Haiet , Montigaud Vincent , McMonagle Charles J. , Le Guennic Boris , Cador Olivier , Pinkowicz Dawid , Probert Michael R.
Published: April 2023

The extreme sensitivity of trivalent lanthanide ions to crystal field variations led to the emergence of single‐molecule magnetic switching under various stimuli. The use of pressure as an external stimulus instead of classic light irradiation, oxidation or any chemical reactions allows a fine tuning of the magnetic modulation. Here the well‐known pure isotopically enriched [162Dy(tta)3(L)]⋅C6H14 (162Dy) Single‐Molecule Magnet (SMM) (tta−=2‐2‐thenoyltrifluoroacetonate and L=4,5‐bis(propylthio)‐tetrathiafulvalene‐2‐(2‐pyridyl)benzimidazole‐methyl‐2‐pyridine) was experimentally investigated by single‐crystal diffraction and squid magnetometry under high applied pressures. Both reversible piezochromic properties and pressure modulation of the slow magnetic relaxation behavior were demonstrated and supported by ab initio calculations. The magnetic study of the diluted sample [162Dy0.05Y0.95(tta)3(L)]⋅C6H14 (162Dy@Y) indicated that variations in the electronic structure have mainly intermolecular origin with weak intramolecular contribution. Quantitative magnetic interpretation concludes to a deterioration of the Orbach process for the benefit of both Raman and QTM mechanisms under applied pressure.
Palladium Catalyzed, Annulative Multiple C‐H Bond Activations of BODIPYs to Access π‐Extended Polycyclic Heteroaromatic Molecules with Deep Red Emissions andSelf‐aggregation Behaviors
Authors: Miao Wei , Gan Rui , Liu Wanxiao , Guo Xing , Wu Qinghua , Wei Ying , Yu Changjiang , Hao Erhong , Jiao Lijuan
Published: April 2023

Aromatic ring fusion on BODIPY core can effectively tune its electronic property, and red‐shift its absorption and emission wavelength. In this work, we report that a one‐pot Pd(II) catalyzed multiple C−H activation to access acenaphtho[b]‐fused BODIPYs though the reaction ofα,β‐unsubstituted‐BODIPYs and 1,8‐dibromonaphthalenes. These newly synthesized acenaphtho[b]‐fused BODIPYs revealed intensified deep red absorptions (639–669 nm) and emissions (643–683 nm), with high fluorescence quantum yields (0.53–0.84) in dichloromethane. Notably, these acenaphtho[b]‐fused BODIPYs exhibited well‐defined self‐aggregation behavior in water/THF mixture, and for instance, the absorption of3 awas red‐shifted by 53 nm to 693 nm after forming aggregates.
Flow Synthesis of Gigantic Porphyrinic Cages: Facile Synthesis of P12L24 and Discovery of Kinetic Product P9L18
Authors: Lee Hochan , Joo Jeong‐Un , Dhamija Avinash , Gunnam Anilkumar , Koo Jaehyoung , Giri Pritam , Ho Ko Young , Hwang In‐Chul , Kim Dong‐Pyo , Kim Kimoon
Published: April 2023

A continuous flow methodology for the facile and high‐yielding synthesis of the porphyrin‐based self‐assembled organic cage, P12L24 is reported, along with the serendipitous discovery of a kinetic product, P9L18 cage, which has been characterized by MALDI‐TOF MS, NMR, and AFM analysis. A theoretical study suggests a tricapped trigonal prismatic geometry for P9L18. Unlike P12L24, P9L18 is unstable and readily decomposes into monomers and small oligomers. While the batch synthesis produces only the thermodynamic product P12L24, the continuous flow process generates not only the thermodynamic product but also kinetic products, such as P9L18, illustrating the advantages of the continuous flow process for the synthesis of self‐assembled cages and the exploration of new non‐equilibrium assemblies.
A Brick‐Wall Topological 2D Covalent Organic Framework Constructed from an H‐Shaped “Two‐in‐One” Monomer
Authors: Bao Pengli , Yang Zongfan , Yan Xiaoli , Guo Linshuo , Su Xi , Zhang Guang , Yuan Daqiang , Chen Long
Published: April 2023

As an emerging class of porous crystalline material, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have received considerable research interests in terms of exploring new architectures and functions. Herein, we developed an unprecedented “H‐shaped” monomer, upon self‐polycondensation, which facilely produced a benzoimidazole‐based COF (H‐BIm‐COF) with a rarely reported brick‐wall topology. H‐BIm‐COF displayed high crystallinity, nano‐sized porosity, and high thermal and chemical stabilities. Interestingly, H‐BIm‐COF based membranes showed selective permeability towards different solvents, which related to the size and polarity of the guest molecule. Additionally, initial study suggested the COF displayed excellent rejection efficiency towards ionic dyes, for example chromium black T (99.7 %) and rhodamine B (97.3 %). This work provides insights into developing new topological COFs by designing monomers with new configurations.
ProMetaS – A Metadata Schema for Process Engineering and Industry
Authors: Sherpa Lincoln , Müller-Pfefferkorn Ralph , Tolksdorf Gregor , Khaydarov Valentin , Wiedau Michael , Urbas Leon
Published: April 2023

Data collection in process industry yields a variety of data types. To maintain the knowledge about the data and to enable finding and reusing them (FAIR data), a common description with metadata is necessary. In the project KEEN, ProMetaS – the Process Engineering/Industry Metadata Schema – was developed. It defines various metadata categories adhering to available metadata standards. In this article, ProMetaS, its implementation into the KEEN data platform, and its application in two use cases is described.
Clinical outcomes of ultrasound‐guided radiofrequency ablation for solitary T1N0M0 papillary thyroid carcinoma: A retrospective study with more than 5 years of follow‐up
Authors: Yan Lin , Li Yingying , Li Xin Yang , Xiao Jing , Tang Jie , Luo Yukun
Published: April 2023

Background

Ultrasound‐guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been used in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) who refuse surgery or active surveillance. However, the long‐term outcomes are still limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of RFA for solitary T1N0M0 PTC in a large cohort over a more than 5‐year follow‐up period.

Methods

This retrospective study included 358 patients with solitary T1N0M0 PTC who were treated with RFA and followed for at least 5 years. The bipolar RFA procedure was performed using hydrodissection technique, transisthmic approach, and moving‐shot technique. The primary outcomes were disease progression, including lymph node metastasis (LNM), recurrent tumor, persistent tumor, and distant metastasis. The secondary outcomes were volume reduction rate, complete disappearance rate, complications, and delayed surgery.

Results

During a mean follow‐up period of 75.5 ± 9.7 months, the overall disease progression was 5.0%. The incidence of LNM, recurrent tumor, and persistent tumor was 1.4%, 3.1%, and 0.6%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the disease progression (5.0% vs. 5.5%, p = 1.000), LNM (1.3% vs. 1.8%, p = .568), recurrent tumor (3.3% vs. 1.8%, p = .872), persistent tumors (0.3% vs. 1.8%, p = .284), and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rates (95.4% vs. 96.4%, p = .785) in the T1a and T1b groups. Volume reduction rate was 100.0 ± 0.3%, with 96.9% of tumors disappearing. No complications occurred. No patients underwent delayed surgery because of anxiety.

Conclusions

RFA is an effective and safe alternative for patients with T1N0M0 PTC and can offer a minimally invasive curative option for patients who refuse surgery or active surveillance.

Plain Language Summary

During a mean follow‐up period of 75.5 ± 9.7 months, the overall papillary thyroid carcinoma disease progression was 5.0%. The volume reduction rate was 100.0 ± 0.3%, with 96.9% of tumors disappearing.

The T1a and T1b groups had similar incidence of disease progression and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rates. No patients experienced complications or underwent delayed surgery because of anxiety.
Color induction in the restoration of architecture in historic city centers
Authors: Serra Juan , Cabodevilla‐Artieda Ignacio , Torres‐Barchino Ana , Llopis Jorge
Published: April 2023

In the restoration of historic facades, specialists need to tackle the problem of colors applied to the ornamental elements that appear different on a facade than if they were isolated, because the colors of the surrounding surfaces influence them through color induction. This study evaluates the difference between the colors of ornaments observed in isolation, which we call nominal colors, and on different background colors, which we call induced colors, considering the historic color palette of Valencia as studied by the Color Research Group in Architecture of the Universitat Politècnica de València. The study consisted of the evaluation of 108 color pairs painted on physical cardboards, rated by 26 female students (average age 26.5), under natural lighting conditions, and using the Natural Color System (NCS) Color Atlas for the color match. Results indicate that induced colors have lower NCS blackness compared with nominal ones, and slightly higher or no NCS chromaticness shift. Nominal colors with low chromaticness exhibit an important hue induction effect and tend to shift to a hue that is located opposite to that of the background color in the NCS color circle, this effect being larger when the background has a warm color. The induction effect is larger when ornamental elements and background have similar nominal NCS blackness, and different nominal NCS chromaticness,with nominal hue difference no significant in the induction effect. The colors of ornamental elements that entailed greater induction were those with the lowest NCS chromaticness, and in the case of the background color, those with the highest chromaticness.
Carbon‐Based Electrodes for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Chen Shangshang
Published: April 2023

Organic solar cells (OSCs) are a promising low‐cost thin‐film photovoltaic technology while the fabrication of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) and metal electrodes still remains a factor that hinders the scaling‐up and commercialization of OSCs. Carbon‐based materials are regarded as potential alternatives due to their excellent properties, such as low cost, solution processibility, high conductance, and good chemical stability. In this mini‐review, the recent progress of carbon‐based materials such as graphite, carbon nanosheets, graphene, and carbon nanotubes to replace the TCO and metal electrodes of OSCs is surveyed. The preparation methods of different carbon‐based materials are also discussed. Based on current progress, we summarize the outlooks and challenges of carbon‐based electrodes. We anticipate this mini‐review will inspire more research efforts to develop high‐performance and OSC‐matched carbon materials for more efficient and stable carbon‐electrode‐based OSCs.
Fluorescent Protein Production, Purification, and Coupling to Microspheres
Authors: Dramicanin Marija , Lim Kevin , Monard Simon
Published: April 2023

Fluorescent proteins (FPs) have become an essential tool for biological research. Since the isolation and description of green FP, hundreds of FPs have been discovered and created with various characteristics. The excitation of these proteins ranges from ultraviolet (UV) up to near infrared (NIR). Using conventional cytometry, with each detector assigned to a fluorochrome, great care must be taken when selecting the optimal bandpass filters to minimalize the spectral overlap as the emission spectra of FPs are broad. Full‐spectrum flow cytometers eliminate the need to change optical filters for analyzing FPs, which simplifies instrument setup. In experiments where more than one FP is used, single‐color controls are required. These can be cells expressing each of the proteins separately. In the case of the confetti system, for instance, when four FPs are used, all these proteins will need to be expressed separately so that compensation or spectral unmixing can be performed, and this can be inconvenient and expensive. An appealing alternative is to produce FPs in Escherichia coli, purify them, and covalently couple them to carboxylate polystyrene microspheres. Such microspheres are ready to use and can be stored at 4°C for months or even years without any deterioration in fluorescence. The same procedure can be used to couple antibodies or other proteins to these particles. Here, we describe how to express and purify FPs, how to couple them to microspheres, and how to evaluate the fluorescent properties of the particles. © 2023 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Escherichia coli expression and purification of recombinant mPlum

Basic Protocol 2: Coupling fluorescent proteins to polystyrene microspheres

Support Protocol 1: Comparing the cell‐bound and bead‐bound fluorescence signatures

Support Protocol 2: Comparing spectral signatures via the similarity index, complexity matrix, and spillover spread matrix of fluorescent protein–coupled beads
Air filtration mitigates aerosol levels both during and after endoscopy procedures
Authors: Phillips Frank , Crowley Jane , Warburton Samantha , Staniforth Karren , Parra‐Blanco Adolfo , Gordon George S.D.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopies are aerosol‐generating procedures, increasing the risk of spreading airborne pathogens. We aim to quantify the mitigation of airborne particles via improved ventilation, specifically laminar flow theatres and portable high‐efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, during and after upper gastrointestinal endoscopies.

Methods

This observational study included patients undergoing routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in a standard endoscopy room with 15–17 air changes per hour, a standard endoscopy room with a portable HEPA filtration unit, and a laminar flow theatre with 300 air changes per hour. A particle counter (diameter range 0.3 μm‐25 μm) took measurements 10 cm from the mouth. Three analyses were performed: whole procedure particle counts, event‐based counts, and air clearance estimation using post‐procedure counts.

Results

Compared to a standard endoscopy room, for whole procedures we observe a 28.5x reduction in particle counts in laminar flow (p < 0.001) but no significant effect of HEPA filtration (p = 0.50). For event analysis, we observe for lateral flow theatres reduction in particles >5 μm for oral extubation (12.2x, p < 0.01), reduction in particles <5 μm for coughing/gagging (6.9x, p < 0.05), and reduction for all sizes in anesthetic throat spray (8.4x, p < 0.01) but no significant effect of HEPA filtration. However, we find that in the fallow period between procedures HEPA filtration reduces particle clearance times by 40%.

Conclusions

Laminar flow theatres are highly effective at dispersing aerosols immediately after production and should be considered for high‐risk cases where patients are actively infectious or the supply of personal protective equipment is limited. Portable HEPA filers can safely reduce the fallow time between procedures by 40%.
Maintenance of complete mucosal healing is associated with avoiding restenosis after endoscopic balloon dilation of Crohn's disease‐related small intestinal strictures
Authors: Dashnyam Ulzii , Nagayama Manabu , Yano Tomonori , Sakamoto Hirotsugu , Mieno Makiko , Owada Jun , Oguro Kunihiko , Khurelbaatar Tsevelnorov , Sunada Keijiro , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: April 2023

Background

Endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) is an effective, minimally invasive treatment for Crohn's disease (CD) related intestinal strictures. However, restenosis frequently occurs and requires repetitive EBD or surgical resection. Since previous studies could not evaluate restenosis based on stricture diameter, factors affecting restenosis after EBD were unclear. This study aimed to identify these factors by precisely measuring the diameter of small intestinal strictures in patients with CD.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study enrolled patients with CD with de novo small intestinal strictures who underwent two double‐balloon enteroscopy sessions (EBD and follow‐up) between January 2016 and October 2021. Clinical and endoscopic data were obtained from electronic medical records. A calibrated small‐caliber‐tip transparent hood was used to precisely measure stricture diameters. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with restenosis.

Results

Forty‐eight patients (37 male) were analyzed. The total number of strictures detected decreased from 162 to 143. The mean diameter of all strictures and the narrowest stricture in each patient increased significantly from 8.6 to 9.8 mm and from 7.6 to 8.7 mm, respectively. Thirty‐two (67%) patients developed endoscopic restenosis. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of ulcers at the follow‐up session was a risk factor for restenosis (odds ratio 9.4, p = 0.01). Patients with complete mucosal healing at both sessions (n = 21) showed significant improvement in the narrowest stricture (+1.7 mm, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Maintenance of complete mucosal healing is significantly associated with avoiding restenosis after EBD in CD‐related small intestinal strictures.
First description of injury feigning behavior in Godlewski's buntings
Authors: Liu Xizhu , Zhang Yuhan , Wan Guixia , Luo Haixia , Wang Longwu , Liang Wei
Published: April 2023

Nest defense behavior helps ground‐nesting birds improve their breeding success. Among such behaviors, injury feigning behavior (IFB) is one of the better ways to attract predators and protect birds' nests. IFB is generally associated with shorebirds in general and plovers in particular, however, through field observation, it has been found this behavior is also exhibited in bunting species when they facing the risk of predation. We attempt to explore the detailed description of this behavior in buntings and the factors that affect this behavior. Based on video‐recordings of the nest defense behavior by the ground‐nesting bird Godlewski's bunting (Emberiza godlewskii) against nest invaders, we explored the characteristic of IFB and differences in nest defense behavior during their brooding seasons. The results showed that female buntings had a distinct IFB: the wings of buntings incited within 60°–90° of the body, ran and called rapidly, pretending to be injured and unable to fly. The nest stage had significant and extremely significant effects on IFB and movement distance (MD), respectively. And IFB was more likely to occur in brooding (34.62%) than incubation period (16.42%). This indicates that there are significant differences in the IFB of buntings at different breeding stages.
Evaluation of community science monitoring with environmental DNA for marine fish species: “Fish survey project using environmental DNA”
Authors: Suzuki‐Ohno Yukari , Tanabe Akifumi S. , Kasai Akihide , Masuda Reiji , Seino Satoquo , Dazai Akihiro , Suzuki Shota , Abe Takuzo , Kondoh Michio
Published: April 2023

Environmental DNA is a powerful tool for community science‐based biodiversity surveys. However, the effectiveness of environmental DNA for environmental education and the time and physical costs perceived by volunteers for collecting environmental DNA remain unclear. Here, we evaluated a community science program for monitoring marine fish biodiversity using environmental DNA metabarcoding. This program aimed to investigate marine fish biodiversity in coastal areas along the Japanese archipelago. The participants were allowed to decide on the date and site to collect environmental DNA. They received a paper manual, a data sheet, and a sampling kit via a parcel delivery service. Before collecting environmental DNA, they watched a video manual for collecting environmental DNA and attended a webinar about the process and precautions for collecting environmental DNA provided by the scientists. At the sampling sites, they obtained environmental DNA samples from seawater themselves and sent the samples to the scientists via a refrigerated parcel delivery service. After collecting environmental DNA, they received fish name data from their samples and attended a webinar about survey results provided by the scientists. A cumulative total of 168 volunteers (84 pairs) participated in the program and detected 572 taxonomic groups of fish environmental DNA in the summer of 2020 and 2021. According to a questionnaire survey, more than 75% of the respondents answered that the project improved their understanding of biodiversity, marine environments, and environmental DNA. Approximately 95% of the respondents thought that environmental DNA collection work was meaningful to them. Some respondents commented on the difficulty of interpreting their fish name data, or the time and effort of selecting a sampling site. Therefore, improving the methods to communicate more information about fish name data and select sampling sites will further develop community science monitoring using environmental DNA.
Expanding the Chemical Space of Non‐Proteinogenic N4‐Substituted Asparagine: Racemic, Enantioenriched, and Deuterated Derivatives
Authors: Pissinati Emanuele F. , Delgado José A. C. , Moro Pedro A. M. , Correia José T. M. , Berlinck Roberto G. S. , Paixão Márcio W.
Published: April 2023

A site‐selective carbamoylation strategy to access non‐proteinogenic N4‐modified asparagines has been described. The protocol is characterized by mild reaction conditions, high functional group compatibility, and a wide diversity of functionalized carbamoyl radicals making possible the access to peptides, pharmaceuticals, and natural N4‐asparagine conjugates, as well as enantioenriched unnatural N4‐asparagines. Besides that, deuterated analogues were achieved with the insertion of D2O and enantioenriched derivatives could be obtained in 15 min in continuous‐flow conditions.
Breaking down re‐enrollment barriers for adult learners improves the college experience for all
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2023

CHICAGO — Re‐engaging your stopped‐out adult learners can be an effective tool in your arsenal for dramatically boosting completion rates, not to mention changing the lives of the students in your community. “We know who [these students] are: when they stopped out, why they stopped out. It's rarely that they failed out, but more likely they ‘lifed’ out in some way,” said Tony Sheppard, Professor and Program Coordinator of Hospital Management & Tourism at Sacramento State University.
A study on economic, efficiency and environment (EEE) impact of different fuels used in boilers to assist decision making in fuel conversion and enhance sustainability
Authors: Jena Madhab Chandra , Mishra Sarat Kumar , Moharana Himanshu Sekhar
Published: April 2023

Boilers using different fuels like HSD, LDO, coal, PNG and propane were taken into consideration in this study. Different parameters associated with boilers like economic factor, efficiency factor and the environmental impact factor were being calculated by taking measurements and collecting data from different plants in Odisha with variety of fuels. It is found that the most economical fuel is coal with a price index of 4.69 Rs/megacalorie and the most expensive fuel is LDO with a price index of 9.83 Rs/megacalorie. The most efficient boilers are propane‐fired boilers with an efficiency of 95.1% and least efficient boilers are coal‐fired boilers with an efficiency of 88.8%. PNG‐fired boilers had the lowest environmental impact around 1.0 and coal‐fired boilers had the highest around 6.0. A new concept of EEE impact index has been introduced which denotes the combined impact of Economic factor, Efficiency and Environmental factor. PNG was found to be the best fuel, having an EEE impact factor of 0.06 and LDO is the worst, having an EEE impact factor of 0.43. A case study was also carried out to convert a boiler from HSD‐fired to PNG‐fired, which was found to be very encouraging with a payback period of approximately 1 year. The IRR also calculated, it was around 120% making it very appealing to invest for a good financial gain. This can be used as a reference and guiding document for the industries to take decisions for fuel switching and achieve better sustainability by implementing this initiative.
Recovery of auditory evoked response attentional gain modulation following the first psychotic episode indexes improvements in symptom severity
Authors: Coffman Brian A. , Curtis Mark T. , Sklar Alfredo , Seebold Dylan , Salisbury Dean F.
Published: April 2023

Attentional control of auditory N100/M100 gain is reduced in individuals with first‐episode psychosis (FEP). Persistent problems with executive modulation of auditory sensory activity may impact multiple aspects of psychosis. As a follow‐up to our prior work reporting deficits in attentional M100 gain modulation in auditory cortex, we examined changes in M100 gain modulation longitudinally, and further examined relationships between auditory M100 and symptoms of psychosis. We compared auditory M100 in auditory sensory cortex between 21 FEP and 29 matched healthy participants and between timepoints separated by 220 ± 100 days. Magnetoencephalography data were recorded while participants alternately attended or ignored tones in an auditory oddball task. M100 was measured as the average of 80–140 ms post‐stimulus in source‐localized evoked responses within bilateral auditory cortex. Symptoms were assessed using the PANSS and PSYRATS. M100 amplitudes, attentional modulation of M100 amplitudes, and symptom severity all improved in FEP over time. Further, improvement in M100 modulation correlated with improvements in negative symptoms (PANSS) as well as physical, cognitive, and emotional components of hallucinations (PSYRATS). Conversely, improvements in the overall size of the M100, rather than the difference between active and passive M100 amplitudes, were related to worsening of positive symptoms (PANSS) and physical components of hallucinations. Results indicate a link between symptoms (particularly auditory hallucinations) and auditory cortex neurophysiology in FEP, where auditory attention and auditory sensation have opposed relationships to symptom change. These findings may inform current models of psychosis etiology and could provide nonpharmaceutical avenues for early intervention.
Heat‐Up Process: Road to Synthesizing Monodisperse Nanoparticles
Authors: Kim Byung Hyo , Ko Wonjae , Kim Jeong Hyun , Georgiou Joanna S. , Bootharaju Megalamane S. , Park Jongnam , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: April 2023

Large‐scale synthesis of monodisperse nanoparticles is highly desirable for practical applications of nanoparticles in various fields of emerging technology. Among colloidal synthetic routes of monodisperse nanoparticles, heat‐up process, which involves a gradual heating of precursor solution in a batch reactor, has received utmost interest after its successful size‐controlled synthesis of various kinds of nanoparticles. In this essay, we discuss the fundamental research regarding the synthesis of monodisperse nanoparticles and describe how researchers developed the heat‐up process. The mechanistic insights into this synthetic method and the discovery of size‐dependent properties of monodisperse nanoparticles are also presented. We further emphasize its great impacts on utilizing monodisperse nanoparticles synthesized via the heat‐up process for biomedical technology, energy conversion and storage devices, as well as electronic and optoelectronic devices.