bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rh(III)‐CatalyzedN‐Arylation of Alkyl Dioxazolones with Arylboronic Acids for the Synthesis ofN‐Aryl Amides
Authors: Song Jia‐Lin , Chen Shao‐Yong , Xiao Lin , Xie Xiao‐Ling , Zheng Yi‐Chuan , Zhang Shang‐Shi , Shu Bing
Published: July 2022

Herein, a method forN‐aryl amides preparation has been established through Rh(III)‐catalyzed C(sp2)−N cross‐coupling reactions of alkyl dioxazolones with arylboronic acids, heterocyclic boronic acid, and alkenyl boronic acid. This efficient and straightforward catalytic approach was featured with broad substrate scope (38 examples), good functional group compatibility, high yields (up to 99 %), and is suitable for late‐stage modification of drug molecular structures. The possible mechanism hypothesis was also accomplished.
Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium extract and flavonoids reduce inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages by inactivation of MAPK and NF‐κB pathways
Authors: Zhang Xutao , Zhou Yan , Cheong Meng Sam , Khan Haroon , Ruan Cheng‐Chao , Fu Manqin , Xiao Jianbo , Cheang Wai San
Published: July 2022

Citri reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP) is widely consumed as a food and herbal medicine in various countries and has many biological activities, including anti‐inflammatory effects, but the molecular mechanism is not completely known. This study aims to investigate whether CRP extract and its major flavonoids hesperidin (Hsd) and hesperetin (Hst) can reduce inflammation in macrophages and the underlying mechanism. The chemical composition of CRP was detected by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS) analysis. The inflammatory cell model was induced by stimulating RAW 264.7 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 μg/ml). Levels of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines were determined by Griess assay and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits, respectively. Protein expressions were examined by western blotting. CRP extract dose‐dependently suppressed LPS‐induced production of NO, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and tumor necrosis factor‐α. Elevated expressions of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and phosphorylation of c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, p38, and p65 in LPS‐stimulated cells were prevented by CRP extract. Hsd and Hst are flavonoids present in CRP, as confirmed by UPLC‒MS analysis. Both Hsd and Hst ameliorated LPS‐triggered inflammation to reduce NO release, IL‐6 generation, and protein expressions of iNOS and COX‐2. These results reveal that CRP extract possesses anti‐inflammatory activity by inactivating the mitogen‐activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa‐light chain‐enhancer of activated B cells pathways, where Hsd and Hst are bioactive constituents, implying the potential application of CRP as dietary supplements against inflammatory diseases.
Default mode network mediates low‐frequency fluctuations in brain activity and behavior during sustained attention
Authors: Zhang Hang , Yang Shi‐You , Qiao Yang , Ge Qiu , Tang Yi‐Yuan , Northoff Georg , Zang Yu‐Feng
Published: July 2022

The low‐frequency (<0.1 Hz) fluctuation in sustained attention attracts enormous interest in cognitive neuroscience and clinical research since it always leads to cognitive and behavioral lapses. What is the source of the spontaneous fluctuation in sustained attention in neural activity, and how does the neural fluctuation relate to behavioral fluctuation? Here, we address these questions by collecting and analyzing two independent fMRI and behavior datasets. We show that the neural (fMRI) fluctuation in a key brain network, the default‐mode network (DMN), mediate behavioral (reaction time) fluctuation during sustained attention. DMN shows the increased amplitude of fluctuation, which correlates with the behavioral fluctuation in a similar frequency range (0.01–0.1 Hz) but not in the lower (<0.01 Hz) or higher (>0.1 Hz) frequency range. This was observed during both auditory and visual sustained attention and was replicable across independent datasets. These results provide a novel insight into the neural source of attention‐fluctuation and extend the former concept that DMN was deactivated in cognitive tasks. More generally, our findings highlight the temporal dynamic of the brain–behavior relationship.
Identifying the regional substrates predictive of Alzheimer's disease progression through a convolutional neural network model and occlusion
Authors: Kwak Kichang , Stanford William , Dayan Eran ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2022

Progressive brain atrophy is a key neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. However, atrophy patterns along the progression of AD dementia are diffuse and variable and are often missed by univariate methods. Consequently, identifying the major regional atrophy patterns underlying AD dementia progression is challenging. In the current study, we propose a method that evaluates the degree to which specific regional atrophy patterns are predictive of AD dementia progression, while holding all other atrophy changes constant using a total sample of 334 subjects. We first trained a dense convolutional neural network model to differentiate individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who progress to AD dementia versus those with a stable MCI diagnosis. Then, we retested the model multiple times, each time occluding different regions of interest (ROIs) from the model's testing set's input. We also validated this approach by occluding ROIs based on Braak's staging scheme. We found that the hippocampus, fusiform, and inferior temporal gyri were the strongest predictors of AD dementia progression, in agreement with established staging models. We also found that occlusion of limbic ROIs defined according to Braak stage III had the largest impact on the performance of the model. Our predictive model reveals the major regional patterns of atrophy predictive of AD dementia progression. These results highlight the potential for early diagnosis and stratification of individuals with prodromal AD dementia based on patterns of cortical atrophy, prior to interventional clinical trials.
PGC1α overexpression preserves muscle mass and function in cisplatin‐induced cachexia
Authors: Huot Joshua R. , Pin Fabrizio , Chatterjee Rohit , Bonetto Andrea
Published: July 2022

Background

Chemotherapy induces a cachectic‐like phenotype, accompanied by skeletal muscle wasting, weakness and mitochondrial dysfunction. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma coactivator‐1 alpha (PGC1α), a regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, is often reduced in cachectic skeletal muscle. Overexpression of PGC1α has yielded mixed beneficial results in cancer cachexia, yet investigations using such approach in a chemotherapy setting are limited. Utilizing transgenic mice, we assessed whether overexpression of PGC1α could combat the skeletal muscle consequences of cisplatin.

Methods

Young (2 month) and old (18 month) wild‐type (WT) and PGC1α transgenic male and female mice (Tg) were injected with cisplatin (C; 2.5 mg/kg) for 2 weeks, while control animals received saline (n = 5–9/group). Animals were assessed for muscle mass and force, motor unit connectivity, and expression of mitochondrial proteins.

Results

Young WT + C mice displayed reduced gastrocnemius mass (male: −16%, P < 0.0001; female: −11%, P < 0.001), muscle force (−6%, P < 0.05, both sexes), and motor unit number estimation (MUNE; male: −53%, P < 0.01; female: −51%, P < 0.01). Old WT + C male and female mice exhibited gastrocnemius wasting (male: −22%, P < 0.05; female: −27%, P < 0.05), muscle weakness (male: −20%, P < 0.0001; female: −17%, P < 0.01), and loss of MUNE (male: −82%, P < 0.01; female: −62%, P < 0.05), suggesting exacerbated cachexia compared with younger animals. Overexpression of PGC1α had mild protective effects on muscle mass in young Tg + C male only (gastrocnemius: +10%, P < 0.05); however, force and MUNE were unchanged in both young Tg + C male and female, suggesting preservation of neuromuscular function. In older male, protective effects associated with PGC1α overexpression were heighted with Tg + C demonstrating preserved muscle mass (gastrocnemius: +34%, P < 0.001), muscle force (+13%, P < 0.01), and MUNE (+3‐fold, P < 0.05). Similarly, old female Tg + C did not exhibit muscle wasting or reductions in MUNE, and had preserved muscle force (+11%, P < 0.05) compared with female WT + C. Follow‐up molecular analysis demonstrated that aged WT animals were more susceptible to cisplatin‐induced loss of mitochondrial proteins, including PGC1α, OPA1, cytochrome‐C, and Cox IV.

Conclusions

In our study, the negative effects of cisplatin were heighted in aged animals, whereas overexpression of PGC1α was sufficient to combat the neuromuscular dysfunction caused by cisplatin, especially in older animals. Hence, our observations indicate that aged animals may be more susceptible to develop chemotherapy side toxicities and that mitochondria‐targeted strategies may serve as a tool to prevent chemotherapy‐induced muscle wasting and weakness.
Pyrolysis analysis of polyethylene terephthalate: effects of carrier gases (N2, He, and Ar) and zeolite catalyst (A4) on yield
Authors: Atashi Farid , Gholizadeh Mortaza , Ataei Farshad
Published: July 2022

Polyethylene terephthalate, the main material used for beverage bottle packaging, accounts for an average of 7.6% of all plastic waste in Europe. This material is not biodegradable and takes several centuries to decompose. The pyrolysis process in the presence of a catalyst and carrier gases can convert PET waste into solid, liquid, and gaseous materials that can be utilized as fuel. This study evaluated the effects of different carrier gases on the pyrolysis of PET waste in the presence and absence of a zeolite catalyst (A4). The results showed that the catalyst affected the pyrolysis yield; it increased the liquid and gaseous products, as well as the benzoic acid content. However, the effect declined when replacing the carrier gas with a larger molecular weight carrier gas. The alcohol content of the char was larger than that of the wax. The maximum alcohol content was detected under He, implying the direct impact of the carrier on the pyrolysis products. The hydrocarbons identified in the char were affected by changing the carrier gas, and a different distribution of hydrocarbon groups was found by converting the aromatic group into aliphatic compounds. Broadly speaking, in the presence of helium gas and the catalyst, the lowest amount of coke and the lightest compounds were observed. The amount of coke in the presence of nitrogen gas was the same as that of helium gas, but it had heavier compounds. Meanwhile in the presence of argon gas, which has a high molecular mass, more coke and heavier compounds were obtained. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The experience of providing end‐of‐life care at home: The emotional experiences of young family physicians
Authors: Son Daisuke , Oishi Ai , Taniguchi Shin‐ichi
Published: July 2022

Background

End‐of‐life care is now a major issue in Japan as a result of the rapidly aging population; hence, the need for fostering family physicians to be engaged in end‐of‐life care at home is increasing. Studies in the United States and the United Kingdom have shown that physicians feel emotional and moral distress in end‐of‐life care, and that they develop detachment and dehumanizing attitudes toward patients as a coping mechanism. However, few studies have explored the emotional experiences that family physicians have during home‐based end‐of‐life care. The aim of this study is to explore the emotional experiences of young family physicians in such situations.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative analysis of interviews with family medicine residents or family physicians who had just completed their residency. The interviews were audio‐recorded and transcripts were prepared. The coded data were analyzed according to thematic analysis using NVivo 10 software.

Results

Study participants were 12 family physicians of PGY 5–11, with experienced end‐of‐life care cases of 3–20. Thirteen themes were extracted from the data, which were categorized into five domains: difficulties in end‐of‐life discussion, emotions of physicians, the role of physicians, communicating with the family, and positivity in end‐of‐life care. The physicians experienced various emotions and struggles within these domains, but they also felt something positive through providing care for the dying patients and their families.

Conclusion

Family physicians experience various emotional difficulties during end‐of‐life home care. However, positive emotions at the end of life were also experienced through their care.
Creative Self‐Efficacy and Metacognitive Feelings as Sources of Information when Generating, Evaluating, and Selecting Creative Ideas: A Metacognitive Perspective
Authors: Puente‐Díaz Rogelio , Cavazos‐Arroyo Judith
Published: July 2022

In one study, we examined the relationships between pre‐task creative self‐efficacy, post‐task creative confidence, self‐rated and judges‐rated creativity evaluations, metacognitive feelings, and idea selection under a metacognitive framework. Four hundred and fourteen college students were asked to complete a divergent thinking problem in the domain of marketing and completed several questionnaires measuring pre‐task creative self‐efficacy, post‐task creative confidence, idea evaluation and selection, and metacognitive feelings. Independent judges evaluated the creativity of each idea generated and ranked ideas from the most to the least creative. Results showed positive relationships between pre‐task creative self‐efficacy and post‐task creative confidence, self‐ and judges‐rated creativity evaluations and metacognitive feelings. In addition, metacognitive feelings and self‐rated creative evaluations predicted post‐task confidence. We also observed evidence for positive connections between metacognitive feelings and self‐rated evaluations and greater probability of choosing the first idea brought to mind as the best idea than what was expected by chance. The implications of the results were discussed.
Gel properties of okara dietary fiber‐fortified soy protein isolate gel with/without NaCl
Authors: Lv Yuanqi , Wang Jing , Xu Lilan , Tang Tingting , Su Yujie , Gu Luping , Chang Cuihua , Zhang Ming , Yang Yanjun , Li Junhua
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Soy protein isolate (SPI) is widely used as an alternative to animal‐based protein, and its gelling property is essential for producing plant protein‐based foods. Insoluble dietary fiber has been used to improve the properties of protein gels.

RESULTS

Effects of partial replacement of SPI by okara dietary fiber (ODF) on the gelling properties of ODF‐fortified SPI gels with and without 0.1 m NaCl were investigated. The presence of ODF hindered the SPI self‐aggregation and reduced the surface hydrophobicity of SPI. The presence of ODF reduced the hydrophobic interaction and improved the proportion of disulfide bonds in the gels. In the microstructure, the swollen ODF promoted the local aggregation of SPI at 0.1 m NaCl. Texture profile analysis showed that 5% and 10% ODF improved the SPI gel hardness in the absence of NaCl, whereas only 5% ODF improved the gel hardness at 0.1 m NaCl. The results of low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance imaging revealed that ODF shortened the T2 relaxation time of the free water in the gel. The gel of ODF‐10 had the highest storage modulus.

CONCLUSION

Using an appropriate amount of ODF to replace SPI could improve the quality of SPI gel and increase the dietary fiber content in the product. In addition, the appropriate ratio of ODF/SPI varied in different solution environments. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposes creation of BHI services
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2022

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released its 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule on July 7. CMS is moving forward on its 2022 behavioral health strategy to improve access to, and quality of, mental health care services. Pointing to comments in previous years' rulemaking regarding services for behavioral health integration (BHI), CMS is also including in‐depth psychological evaluations delivered by a clinical psychologist as part of its proposed rule.
Radiation quality correction factors for improved dosimetry in preclinical minibeam radiotherapy
Authors: Sotiropoulos Marios , Prezado Yolanda
Published: July 2022

Background

In reference dosimetry, radiation quality correction factors are used in order to account for changes in the detector's response among different radiation qualities, improving dosimetric accuracy.

Purpose

Reference dosimetry radiation quality corrections factors for the PTW microDiamond were calculated for preclinical X‐ray and proton minibeams, and their impact in dosimetric accuracy was evaluated.

Methods

A formalism for the calculation of radiation quality correction factors for absolute dosimetry in minibeam fields was developed. Following our formalism, radiation quality correction factors were calculated for the PTW microDiamond detector, using the Monte Carlo method. Models of the detector, and X‐ray and proton irradiation platform, were imported into the TOPAS Monte Carlo simulation toolkit. The radiation quality correction factors were calculated in the following scenarios: (i) reference dosimetry open field to minibeam center of the central peak, (ii) different positions at the minibeam profile (along the peaks and valleys direction) to the center of the central minibeam, and (iii) some representative depth positions. In addition, the radiation quality correction factors needed for the calculation of the peak‐to‐valley dose ratio at different depths were calculated.

Results

An important overestimation of the dose (about 10%) was found in the case of the open to minibeam field for both X‐rays and proton beams, when the correction factors were used. Smaller differences were observed in the other cases.

Conclusions

The usage of the PTW microDiamond detector requires radiation quality correction factors in order to be used in minibeam reference dosimetry.
Changes in brain response to urgency before and after treatment of urgency urinary incontinence with onabotulinumtoxin A
Authors: Clarkson Becky D. , Karim Helmet T. , Chermansky Christopher J. , Banihashemi Layla , Tyagi Shachi , Griffiths Derek J. , Resnick Neil M.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

To better understand the role of the brain in urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), we used onabotulinumtoxin A (BoNTA) as a probe to evaluate changes in the brain's response to urgency in successful and unsuccessful treatment. Because BoNTA acts peripherally, brain changes observed should represent a reaction to changes in bladder function caused by BoNTA, or changes in the brain's compensatory mechanisms, rather than a direct effect of BoNTA on the brain.

Methods

We recruited 20 women aged over 60 years with nonneurogenic UUI who were to undergo treatment with onabotulinum A toxin injected intravesically. We performed a baseline evaluation which included a 3‐day bladder diary and functional magnetic resonance imaging with an urgency provocation task; we repeated this evaluation 6 weeks posttreatment. We performed an analysis of variance on a priori selected regions of interest and post hoc voxel‐wise analysis on responders and nonresponders to treatment.

Results

We found a significant interaction in the right insula [F(1,18) = 5.5, p = 0.031]; activity was different during urgency provocation in responders and non‐responders to therapy, before and after therapy. The supramarginal gyrus (SMG) and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) also displayed significant interactions (p < 0.005). Activity in the periaqueductal gray and prefrontal cortex was correlated with number of leakage episodes (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The changes seen in the brain control mechanism after therapy likely reflect reduced bladder sensation caused by BoNTA's peripheral action. We ascribe the SMG and IFG changes to a coping mechanism for urgency which is reduced in those who respond well to treatment.
Polyurethane foam materials and their industrial applications
Authors: Ates Murat , Karadag Selin , Eker Aysegul Akdogan , Eker Bulent
Published: July 2022

In this review article, polyurethane (PU) foam materials are presented in various industrial applications. PU foams have started to replace metals and plastics in various engineering applications by combining the hardness and durability of metal with the flexibility of rubber. PU foams can be synthesized with various isocyanates, polyols, chain extenders and crosslinkers to serve many specific applications, such as bio‐based composite foam, flexible hard/soft PU foam, polymer foam etc. There are different factors to change of hard and soft segments of PUs. These changes form different products, such as urethane, biurets, allophanates and isocyamurates, etc. This review article mostly concentrates on the basic chemistry of the building blocks of PUs and recent developments in industrial applications of PU foams, such as insulator material, sound insulators, refrigerator and freezing insulators, furniture, shoes, automotive materials, coatings and adhesives and other applications. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
British dairy farmers’ management attitudes towards agricultural plastic waste: reduce, reuse, recycle
Authors: Chen Shuhan
Published: July 2022

Agricultural plastic waste from nonpackaging polymers, such as those used in silage production, constitutes the majority of the UK's agricultural plastic waste due to inadequate management. This study included online and telephone interviews with 12 British dairy farmers (nine from England, three from Wales) to understand the use of non‐packaging plastic in silage production on British dairy farms. It examined their current silage production techniques and agricultural plastic waste management behaviours and highlighted the challenges of reducing plastic waste on dairy farms through the lens of circular economy. The findings show that UK dairy farmers have adhered to the mantra of reduce, reuse and recycle. They use silage clamps for high volumes of silage production, try to reuse some used silage sheets and express a strong interest in having their waste plastic collected and recycled. However, the lack of effective agricultural plastic waste collection services, inequitable enforcement of plastic waste management regulations and rising costs of waste plastic collection in the UK make it difficult for them to recycle effectively. © 2022 The Author. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Thermal risk classification optimization of flammable aromatic nitro compounds: Experiments and QSPR models
Authors: Qin Chuanrui , Dang Mengtao , Meng Yifei , Zhao Dongfeng
Published: July 2022

In view of the frequent occurrence of major fires and explosions in the production, transportation, and storage of aromatic nitro compounds, the reactive thermal hazards of these compounds have attracted widespread attention in the chemical industry. Thermal hazard assessment is of great significance for the standardized storage of reactive chemicals. Based on adiabatic calorimetry and quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) prediction, a thermal hazard assessment and classification method dominated by the molecular structure of nitro compounds were proposed. While obtaining thermodynamic parameters, stable configuration and molecular descriptors, the prediction models were constructed by multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN), respectively, including self‐accelerating decomposition temperature (SADT), maximum power density (MPD), and the apparent activation energy (Ea). On this basis, SADT, H50, and Ea were selected as the possible characterization parameters of thermal risk of nitro compounds, while MPD and ΔTad were selected as the characterization parameters of consequence severity. When combined with weight and reference TNT, this method comprehensively evaluated the thermal hazards of nitro compounds and divided them into four types of thermal hazard levels. By comparing the method with the previous classification standards, it is found that the evaluation method is expected to provide theoretical support for the safe standardized storage of nitro compounds in chemical enterprises.
Ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to ion mobility quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry profiling and unveiling the transformation of ginsenosides by the dual conditions of citric acid and high‐pressure steaming
Authors: Li Wei , Wu Xinlong , Wu Mengfan , Yin Jiaxin , Ding Hui , Wu Tong , Bie Songtao , Li Fangyi , He Yongzhi , Han Lifeng , Yang Wenzhi , Song Xinbo , Yu Heshui , Li Zheng
Published: July 2022

Rationale

Many methods have been reported for the production of rare ginsenosides, including heat treatment, acid hydrolysis, alkaline hydrolysis, enzymatic hydrolysis, and microbial transformation. However, the conversion of original ginsenosides to rare ginsenosides under the dual conditions of citric acid and high‐pressure steam sterilization has rarely been reported.

Methods

In this study, a method involving ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to ion mobility quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry was developed for analysis of chemical transformation of protopanaxatriol (PPT)‐type ginsenosides Rg1 and Re, protopanaxadiol (PPD)‐type ginsenoside Rb1, and total ginsenosides in the dual conditions of citric acid and high‐pressure steam sterilization. An internal ginsenoside database containing 126 known ginsenosides and 18 ginsenoside reference compounds was established to identify the transformation products and explore possible transformation pathways and mechanisms.

Results

A total of 54 ginsenosides have been preliminarily identified in the transformation products of PPD‐type ginsenosides Rg1 and Re, PPD‐type ginsenoside Rb1, and total ginsenosides, and the possible transformation pathways were as follows: Rg1, Re → 20(S)‐Rh12, 20(R)‐Rh12; Rg1, Re → 20(S)‐Rh1, 20(R)‐Rh1 → Rk3, Rh4, Rh5; Rb1 → gypenoside LXXV; Rb1 → 20(S)‐Rg3, 20(R)‐Rg3 → Rk1, Rg5; Re → 20(S)‐Rg2, 20(R)‐Rg2 → 20(S)‐Rf2, 20(R)‐Rf2, Rg4, F4.

Conclusions

The results elucidated the possible transformation pathways and mechanisms of ginsenosides in the dual conditions of citric acid and high‐pressure steam sterilization, which were helpful for revealing the mechanisms of ginsenosides and enhanced safety and quality control of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Meanwhile, a simple, efficient, and practical method was developed for the production of rare ginsenosides, which has the potential to produce diverse rare ginsenosides on an industrial scale.
Polarization‐Resolved p‐Se/n‐WS2 Heterojunctions toward Application in Microcomputer System as Multivalued Signal Trigger
Authors: Li Ling , Gao Ge , Liu Xueting , Sun Yiming , Lei Jianpeng , Chen Zecheng , Dan Zhiying , Gao Wei , Zheng Tao , Wang Xiaozhou , Huo Nengjie , Li Jingbo
Published: July 2022

Polarization‐sensitive photodetectors based on van der Waals heterojunctions (vdWH) have excellent polarization‐resolved optoelectronic properties that can enable the applications in polarized light identification and imaging. With the development of optical microcomputer control systems (OMCS), it is crucial and energy efficient to adopt the self‐powered and polarization‐resolved signal‐generators to optimize the circuit design of OMCS. In this work, the selenium (Se) flakes with in‐plane anisotropy and p‐type character are grown and incorporated with n‐type tungsten disulfide (WS2) to construct the type‐II vdWH for polarization‐sensitive and self‐powered photodetectors. Under 405 nm monochrome laser with 1.33 mW cm−2 power density, the photovoltaic device exhibits superior photodetection performance with the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 3.6%, the responsivity (R) of 196 mA W−1 and the external quantum efficiency (EQE) of about 60%. The strong in‐plane anisotropy of Se crystal structure gives rise to the capability of polarized light detection with anisotropic photocurrent ratio of ≈2.2 under the 405 nm laser (13.71 mW cm−2). Benefiting from the well polarization‐sensitive and photovoltaic properties, the p‐Se/n‐WS2 vdWH is successfully applied in the OMCS as multivalued signal trigger. This work develops the new anisotropic vdWH and demonstrates its feasibility for applications in logic circuits and control systems.
Self‐healable, recyclable, ultrastretchable, and high‐performance NO2 sensors based on an organohydrogel for room and sub‐zero temperature and wireless operation
Authors: Ding Qiongling , Zhou Zijing , Wang Hao , Wu Zixuan , Tao Kai , Yang Bo‐Ru , Xie Xi , Fu Jun , Wu Jin
Published: July 2022

To date, development of high‐performance, stretchable gas sensors operating at and below room temperature (RT) remains a challenge in terms of traditional sensing materials. Herein, we report on a high‐performance NO2 gas sensor based on a self‐healable, recyclable, ultrastretchable, and stable polyvinyl alcohol–cellulose nanofibril double‐network organohydrogel, which features ultrahigh sensitivity (372%/ppm), low limit of detection (2.23 ppb), relatively fast response and recovery time (41/144 s for 250 ppb NO2), good selectivity against interfering gases (NH3, CO2, ethanol, and acetone), excellent reversibility, repeatability, and long‐term stability at RT or even at −20°C. In particular, this sensor shows outstanding stability against large deformations and mechanical damages so that it works normally after rapid self‐healing or remolding after undergoing mechanical damage without significant performance degradation, which has major advantages compared to state‐of‐the‐art gas sensors. The high NO2 sensitivity and selectivity are attributed to the selective redox reactions at the three‐phase interface of gas, gel, and electrode, which is even boosted by applying tensile strain. With a specific electrical circuit design, a wireless NO2 alarm system based on this sensor is created to enable continuous, real‐time, and wireless NO2 detection to avoid the risk of exposure to NO2 higher than threshold concentrations.
A First Reliable Gravity Tidal Model for Lake Nasser Region (Egypt)
Authors: Riccardi U. , Hinderer J. , Zahran K. , Issawy E. , Rosat S. , Littel F. , Ali S.
Published: July 2022

In the framework of the French–Egyptian Imhotep Project, two spring gravimeters have been installed in the area of Lake Nasser (Egypt) with the aim to establish a first reliable gravity tide model for the region. The two tidal gravity stations are located in Aswan, on the northern edge of the lake and in Abu Simbel in the south, respectively. This study was mainly aimed to obtain a reliable model of the crustal response to tidal forces and, consequently, to increase the accuracy of the geodetic observations, to be used in future geophysical studies in this region as well as to investigate the effect of the Lake level variations on the crustal deformation and related gravity changes. Nearly 3 years of gravity records (from May 2018 to April 2021) were collected. Since no scale factor was available for the two gravimeters, the first step of this study was to achieve a reliable calibration for each of the two collected gravity signals. After removing the instrumental drift, spikes, steps and tares, both gravimeters have been calibrated by fitting the output signal against a synthetic reference signal based on the body tidal gravity response due to Wahr-Dehant Earth model and FES2014 ocean tidal loading model. The calibrated signals have been analyzed with ET34-X-V80 software for tidal analyses. This enabled us to retrieve a set of frequency-dependent gravity factors (amplitude and phase) for the main tidal waves, as well as to obtain gravity residuals. It turns out that the accuracy of the amplitude estimates for the main tidal waves is 0.2 ÷ 1% for LCR_ET16 in Aswan and 1 ÷ 10% for the LCR_D-218 in Abu Simbel. To improve the tidal model at Abu Simbel, LCR_ET16 was stopped in Aswan and relocated there. The first 90 days of gravity recordings from ET16 at Abu Simbel provide promising results, with an accuracy of the order of 0.1% for the main tidal waves, even better than the results obtained in Aswan. The residual gravity signal after tidal subtraction at Aswan is in the range of ± 50 µGal. Further analyses of the instrumental contribution are however needed before to be able to interpret this gravity signal in terms of surface loading (i.e. changes in the water level of Lake Nasser) or underground hydrology.
Mental health service use among pregnant and early postpartum women
Authors: Lee-Carbon Leonie , Nath Selina , Trevillion Kylee , Byford Sarah , Howard Louise M. , Challacombe Fiona L. , Heslin Margaret
Published: July 2022

Purpose

To explore the proportion and characteristics of women with a mental disorder who have contact with mental health services during pregnancy and the postnatal period in a maternity service in London.

Methods

Data from the WEll-being in pregNancy stuDY (WENDY), a prospective cohort study, were used. Women were recruited at their first appointment for antenatal care and assessed for mental disorders using the Structured Clinical Interview DSM-IV Axis I/II Disorders for Research. Clinical, sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics were collected. Mental health service use data were collected for the period from study entry to 3 months postpartum.

Results

Two hundred women met diagnostic criteria for a mental disorder. Fifty-five (34%) of these had at least one contact with mental health services. Moderate depression (OR 7.44, CI 2.03–27.28, p < 0.01), severe depression (OR 10.5, CI 2.68–41.12, p < 0.01), past psychiatric hospital admission (OR 3.76, CI 1.05–13.44, p < 0.05), symptoms of anxiety (OR 3.95, CI 1.86–8.37, p < 0.001) and perceived low levels of social support (OR 0.43, CI 0.18–1.01, p = 0.05) were associated with an increased likelihood of contact with mental health services in univariate analyses. However, only moderate (OR 5.92, CI 1.31–26.78, p = 0.02) and severe depression (OR 6.04, CI 1.08–33.72, p = 0.04) remained significant in the multivariate regressions analyses.

Conclusion

Only a third of women with a diagnosable mental disorder at their first antenatal appointment had any contact with mental health services during pregnancy or up to 3 months postpartum. Further research is warranted to elicit perinatal women’s views about the potential barriers to accessing professional mental health care.
Sulfur mustard single-dose exposure triggers senescence in primary human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Horn Gabriele , Schäfers Catherine , Thiermann Horst , Völkl Sandra , Schmidt Annette , Rothmiller Simone
Published: July 2022

Chronic wounds, skin blisters, and ulcers are the result of skin exposure to the alkylating agent sulfur mustard (SM). One potential pathomechanism is senescence, which causes permanent growth arrest with a pro-inflammatory environment and may be associated with a chronic wound healing disorder. SM is known to induce chronic senescence in human mesenchymal stem cells which are subsequently unable to fulfill their regenerative function in the wound healing process. As dermal fibroblasts are crucial for cutaneous wound healing by being responsible for granulation tissue formation and synthesis of the extracellular matrix, SM exposure might also impair their function in a similar way. This study, therefore, investigated the SM sensitivity of primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) by determining the dose–response curve. Non-lethal concentrations LC1 (3 µM) to LC25 (65 µM) were used to examine the induction of senescence. HDF were exposed once to 3 µM, 13 µM, 24 µM, 40 µM or 65 μM SM, and were then cultured for 31 days. Changes in morphology as well as at the genetic and protein level were investigated. For the first time, HDF were shown to undergo senescence in a time- and concentration-dependent manner after SM exposure. They developed a characteristic senescence phenotype and expressed various senescence markers. Proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines were significantly altered in SM-exposed HDF as part of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype. The senescent fibroblasts can thus be considered a contributor to the SM-induced chronic wound healing disorder and might serve as a new therapeutic target in the future.
Dutch translation and cultural adaptation of the LYMPH-Q, a new patient-reported outcome measure for breast cancer-related lymphedema
Authors: Beelen Louise Marie , Tsangaris Elena , Dishoeck Anne-Margreet van , Pusic Andrea L. , Klassen Anne F. , Vasilic Dalibor
Published: July 2022

Background

The LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity module is a new patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) developed to assess patient outcomes of breast cancer-related arm lymphedema (BCRL). Content for the LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module was developed from the extensive input of patients and experts in the field of breast surgery and breast cancer-related lymphedema. Rasch Measurement Theory analysis was used to assess psychometric properties. The aim of this study was to perform a Dutch translation and cultural adaptation of the LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module.

Methods

The translation process was performed in accordance with the guidelines of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR).The process included two forward translations, two back translations, and cognitive debriefing interviews with patients with BCRL.

Results

Comparison of the two forward translations showed that the translations for most items (n = 60; 88.2%) were conceptually consistent between the two translators. Translations of the remaining items were reviewed and discussed until consensus was reached. Three items in the back translation had a different meaning when compared to the original English version and required re-translation. The resultant Dutch version of the LYMPH-Q was tested in a series of cognitive debriefing interviews with seven patients and showed good content validity.

Conclusions

The translation and cultural adaptation process resulted in a conceptually equivalent Dutch version of the LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module. This new PROM can now be used in clinical practice and research settings to evaluate outcomes in patients with BCRL.

Level of evidence: Not gradable
Neurotransmitter uptake of synaptic vesicles studied by X-ray diffraction
Authors: Komorowski Karlo , Preobraschenski Julia , Ganzella Marcelo , Alfken Jette , Neuhaus Charlotte , Jahn Reinhard , Salditt Tim
Published: July 2022

The size, polydispersity, and electron density profile of synaptic vesicles (SVs) can be studied by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), i.e. by X-ray diffraction from purified SV suspensions in solution. Here we show that size and shape transformations, as they appear in the functional context of these important synaptic organelles, can also be monitored by SAXS. In particular, we have investigated the active uptake of neurotransmitters, and find a mean vesicle radius increase of about 12% after the uptake of glutamate, which indicates an unusually large extensibility of the vesicle surface, likely to be accompanied by conformational changes of membrane proteins and rearrangements of the bilayer. Changes in the electron density profile (EDP) give first indications for such a rearrangement. Details of the protein structure are screened, however, by SVs polydispersity. To overcome the limitations of large ensemble averages and heterogeneous structures, we therefore propose serial X-ray diffraction by single free electron laser pulses. Using simulated data for realistic parameters, we show that this is in principle feasible, and that even spatial distances between vesicle proteins could be assessed by this approach.
A Fc-VEGF chimeric fusion enhances PD-L1 immunotherapy via inducing immune reprogramming and infiltration in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment
Authors: Kuo Cheng-Liang , Chou Han-Yu , Lien Hui-Wen , Yeh Chia-An , Wang Jing-Rong , Chen Chung-Hsing , Fan Chi-Chen , Hsu Chih-Ping , Kao Ting-Yu , Ko Tai-Ming , Lee Alan Yueh-Luen
Published: July 2022

Background

Immunotherapy is an emerging cancer therapy with potential great success; however, immune checkpoint inhibitor (e.g., anti-PD-1) has response rates of only 10–30% in solid tumor because of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). This affliction can be solved by vascular normalization and TME reprogramming.

Methods

By using the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) approach, we tried to find out the reprogramming mechanism that the Fc-VEGF chimeric antibody drug (Fc-VFD) enhances immune cell infiltration in the TME.

Results

In this work, we showed that Fc-VEGF121-VEGF165 (Fc-VEGF chimeric antibody drug, Fc-VFD) arrests excess angiogenesis and tumor growth through vascular normalization using in vitro and in vivo studies. The results confirmed that the treatment of Fc-VFD increases immune cell infiltration including cytotoxic T, NK, and M1-macrophages cells. Indeed, Fc-VFD inhibits Lon-induced M2 macrophages polarization that induces angiogenesis. Furthermore, Fc-VFD inhibits the secretion of VEGF-A, IL-6, TGF-β, or IL-10 from endothelial, cancer cells, and M2 macrophage, which reprograms immunosuppressive TME. Importantly, Fc-VFD enhances the synergistic effect on the combination immunotherapy with anti-PD-L1 in vivo.

Conclusions

In short, Fc-VFD fusion normalizes intratumor vasculature to reprogram the immunosuppressive TME and enhance cancer immunotherapy.
Getting the big picture in cross-domain fusion
Authors: von Hanxleden Reinhard , Biastoch Arne , Fohrer Nicola , Renz Matthias , Vafeidis Athanasios
Published: July 2022

A central promise of cross-domain fusion (CDF) is the provision of a “bigger picture” that integrates different disciplines and may span very different levels of detail. We present a number of settings that call for this bigger picture, with a particular focus on how information from several domains can be made easily accessible and visualizable for different stakeholders. We propose harnessing an approach that is now well established in interactive maps, which we refer to as the “Google maps approach” (Google LLC, Mountain View, CA, USA), which combines effective filtering with intuitive user interaction. We expect this approach to be applicable to a range of CDF settings.
Influence of surfactants on the electrospinnability of lignin-PVP solutions and subsequent oil structuring properties of nanofiber mats
Authors: Borrego M. , Martín-Alfonso J. E. , Valencia C. , Sánchez M. C. , Franco J. M.
Published: July 2022

This work focuses on the improvement of the electrospinnability of low-sulfonate lignin (LSL)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) solutions by the addition of surfactants (SDS, CTAB and Tween-20) as well as on the ability of resulting nanofibers to structure castor oil. Solutions with two LSL/PVP weight ratios (70:30 and 90:10) in DMF were prepared by adding variable surfactant concentrations (0–1 wt.%), and physicochemically characterized. Electrical conductivity, surface tension and rheological measurements were performed. Variations of these physicochemical properties were explained on the basis of surfactant-polymer interactions. The addition of surfactants to LSL/PVP solutions improves electrospinnability, producing more compact and uniform fiber mats in 70:30 LSL/PVP systems, generally reducing the average diameter of the nanofibers and the number of beads. In contrast, nanofiber mats were not obtained with 90:10 LSL/PVP solutions, but different nanostructures composed of particle clusters. Dispersions of nanofiber mats obtained by electrospinning from 70:30 LSL/PVP solutions in castor oil were able to generate physically stable strong oleogels. In general, linear viscoelastic functions of oleogels increased with surfactant concentration. In addition, these oleogels exhibited excellent lubrication performance in a tribological contact, with extremely low values of the friction coefficient and wear diameters, which may lead to potential applications as lubricants.
Contrast-enhanced mammography-guided biopsy: technical feasibility and first outcomes
Authors: Alcantara R. , Posso M. , Pitarch M. , Arenas N. , Ejarque B. , Iotti V. , Besutti G.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM)-guided biopsy at Hospital del Mar, a Spanish university hospital.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive women with a suspicious enhancing finding eligible for CEM-guided biopsy, who were prospectively enrolled in a pre-marketing clinical validation and feasibility study (October 2019 to September 2021). CEM-guided biopsy is a stereotactic-based procedure that, by using intravenous iodinated contrast media administration and dual-energy acquisition, provides localisation of enhancing lesions. All the biopsies were performed using a vacuum-assisted device. We collected procedural characteristics (patient position and type of approach), and histopathological results. Feasibility endpoints included success (visualisation of the enhancing lesion, post-procedural biopsy changes and clip placement), procedural time, number of scout acquisitions and complications.

Results

A total of 66 suspicious enhancing lesions (18.0% foci, 44.0% mass, 38.0% non-mass enhancement; median size 8.5 mm) in 64 patients (median age 59 years, mostly minimal [48.4%] or mild [32.8%] background parenchymal enhancement) were referred for CEM-guided biopsy in the study period. The success rate was 63/66 (95.4%). Amongst successful procedures, patients were most frequently seated (52/63, 82.5%) and the preferred approach was horizontal (48/63, 76.2%). Median total time per procedure was 15 min. Median number of acquisitions needed before targeting was 2 (range 1–4). Complications consisted of hematoma (17/63, 27%) and vasovagal reaction (2/63, 3.2%). At histology, the malignancy rate was 25/63 (39.7%).

Conclusion

In this first patient series, CEM-guided breast biopsy was feasible, with success and complication rates similar to those previously reported for magnetic resonance guidance.

Key points

• CEM may be used to guide biopsy of enhancing lesions through a stereotactic-based procedure combined with intravenous iodinated contrast media administration and dual-energy acquisition.

• In this first patient series (n = 64), the success rate of CEM-guided biopsy was above 95%, the only complications were hematoma (22.2%) and vasovagal reaction (3.2%), and median total time per procedure was 15 min.

• CEM-guided biopsy is feasible and could potentially be a widely available biopsy technique for enhancing-only lesions.