bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adipose‐Derived Regenerative Cell Transplantation for the Treatment of Hand Dysfunction in Systemic Sclerosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Khanna Dinesh , Caldron Paul , Martin Richard W. , Kafaja Suzanne , Spiera Robert , Shahouri Shadi , Shah Ankoor , Hsu Vivien , Ervin John , Simms Robert , Domsic Robyn T. , Steen Virginia , Hummers Laura K. , Derk Chris , Mayes Maureen , Chatterjee Soumya , Varga John , Kesten Steven , Fraser John K. , Furst Daniel E.
Published: March 2022

Objective

Hand dysfunction is common in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We undertook this study to evaluate the capacity of autologous adipose‐derived regenerative cells (ADRCs) to improve hand function in SSc patients.

Methods

The Scleroderma Treatment with Celution Processed Adipose Derived Regenerative Cells Trial was a prospective, randomized, double‐blind trial of ADRCs, in which ADRCs were obtained from patients with SSc by small‐volume adipose tissue harvest, and the fingers of each patient were injected with ADRCs. The primary end point was change in hand function at 24 and 48 weeks, assessed using the Cochin Hand Function Scale (CHFS). One of the secondary end points included the change in Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index (HAQ DI) at 48 weeks. Separate prespecified analyses were performed for patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) and those with limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc).

Results

Eighty‐eight patients were randomized to receive ADRCs (n = 48 [32 patients with dcSSc and 16 with lcSSc]) or placebo (n = 40 [19 patients with dcSSc and 21 with lcSSc]). Change in hand function according to CHFS score was numerically higher for the ADRC group compared to the placebo group but did not achieve statistical significance (mean ± SD improvement in the CHFS score at 48 weeks 11.0 ± 12.5 versus 8.9 ± 10.5; P = 0.299). For patients with dcSSc, the between‐group difference in the CHFS at 48 weeks was 6.3 points (nominal P = 0.069). For the secondary end point, the dcSSc group exhibited a between‐group difference of 0.17 points in the HAQ DI (nominal P = 0.044) at 48 weeks. Of the ADRC‐treated patients with dcSSc, 52% reported improvement greater than the minimum clinically important difference for both CHFS and HAQ DI compared to 16% in the placebo group (nominal P = 0.016). Small‐volume adipose tissue harvest and ADRC treatment were well tolerated.

Conclusion

While the primary end point of this trial was not achieved, efficacy trends were observed in patients with dcSSc. Adipose tissue harvest and ADRC injection were demonstrated to be feasible. Further clinical trials of this intervention in the setting of dcSSc are warranted.
Robotic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testicular cancer at a national referral centre
Authors: Grenabo Bergdahl Anna , Månsson Marianne , Holmberg Göran , Fovaeus Magnus
Published: March 2022

Objectives

We aim to determine if robot‐assisted retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (R‐RPLND) can be performed as a safe option to open RPLND in selected patients with metastatic germ cell cancer.

Patients and methods

This population‐based prospective study was performed at a one of two national referral centres for RPLND in Sweden. All patients referred during January 2017–March 2021 were screened for possible inclusion. R‐RPLND was performed using the Da Vinci Xi surgical system. Perioperative parameters, postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo), final pathology, preservation of antegrade ejaculation and relapse rates were evaluated. Classifiers for selecting patients to open versus robotic RPLND were analysed by logistic regression modelling. The median follow‐up was 23 months.

Results

Of 87 patients referred, 29 were selected for R‐RPLND, 19 in a post‐chemotherapy setting. In median, retroperitoneal tumour diameter was 18 mm, BMI 24 kg/m2, operative time 433 min, estimated blood loss 50 ml and length of stay 3 days. One patient underwent open conversion due to failure to progress. Four patients had Clavien–Dindo grade 3 complications, of which three were chylous‐related. No in‐field recurrences occurred during follow‐up.

Conclusion

This population‐based study suggests that R‐RPLND can be safely performed in at least one third of patients referred for an RPLND. A relatively high rate of lymph‐leakage may represent a potential drawback. Tumour size may be the most important discriminator when deciding on robotic versus open RPLND. Further studies with longer follow‐up are needed to validate the results.
Fertigungstoleranzen von Betonfertigteilen für die modulare Bauweise
Authors: Forman Patrick , Mark Peter
Published: April 2022

Betonfertigteile müssen Toleranzen einhalten, um sie montieren zu können und Tragfähigkeit sowie Gebrauchstauglichkeit sicherzustellen. Ansonsten sind Nachbearbeitungen nötig, die den Bauprozess verzögern. Klassischer Toleranzausgleich erfolgt über Pressfugen, die auch die nötigen Kräfte übertragen. Bei modularen Bauweisen steht die Schnellmontage im Vordergrund. Es bieten sich dann Schnellverbinder wie etwa Schrauben oder Trockenfugen an. Aus der feineren Modulteilung entstehen zudem weit mehr Verbindungen, sodass sich Ungenauigkeiten superponieren. Die Anforderungen an die geometrische Genauigkeit steigen rapide. Im Beitrag werden die Herstelltoleranzen für automatisierte Fertigungen seriengerechter Module zusammengestellt und dem Stand der Technik gegenübergestellt. Für ausgewählte Modultypen werden Abweichungen mittels Fehlerfortpflanzung nachverfolgt und für einzelne Bauabschnitte bzw. ganze Tragwerke überlagert. Es zeigt sich, dass in der Regel automatisierte Fertigungen nötig sind und handwerkliche ausscheiden. Linienartige Modultragwerke erreichen bis etwa 30 m Länge Abweichungen unter 1 mm bei gängigem Zuverlässigkeitsniveau von 2σ. Bei scheibenartigen Tragwerken resultieren Lochspiele unter 0,5 mm, und zwar für hohe Zuverlässigkeitsniveaus von 4σ. Dies gelingt in qualitätsgesicherter, automatisierter Vorfertigung.
A second chance for protein targeting/folding: Ubiquitination and deubiquitination of nascent proteins
Authors: Culver Jacob A. , Li Xia , Jordan Matthew , Mariappan Malaiyalam
Published: March 2022

Molecular chaperones in cells constantly monitor and bind to exposed hydrophobicity in newly synthesized proteins and assist them in folding or targeting to cellular membranes for insertion. However, proteins can be misfolded or mistargeted, which often causes hydrophobic amino acids to be exposed to the aqueous cytosol. Again, chaperones recognize exposed hydrophobicity in these proteins to prevent nonspecific interactions and aggregation, which are harmful to cells. The chaperone‐bound misfolded proteins are then decorated with ubiquitin chains denoting them for proteasomal degradation. It remains enigmatic how molecular chaperones can mediate both maturation of nascent proteins and ubiquitination of misfolded proteins solely based on their exposed hydrophobic signals. In this review, we propose a dynamic ubiquitination and deubiquitination model in which ubiquitination of newly synthesized proteins serves as a “fix me” signal for either refolding of soluble proteins or retargeting of membrane proteins with the help of chaperones and deubiquitinases. Such a model would provide additional time for aberrant nascent proteins to fold or route for membrane insertion, thus avoiding excessive protein degradation and saving cellular energy spent on protein synthesis. Also see the video abstract here: https://youtu.be/gkElfmqaKG4
In vitro antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activity of Murraya koenigii leaf extract intercedes ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Sharma Avinash , Nagraik Rupak , Venkidasamy Baskar , Khan Azhar , Dulta Kanika , Kumar Chauhan Pankaj , Kumar Deepak , Shin Dong‐Soo
Published: April 2022

Nanotechnology is an emerging field with tremendous potential and usage of medicinal plants and green preparation of nanoparticles (NPs) is one of the widely explored areas. These have been shown to be effective against different biological activities such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, etc. The current studies focus on the green synthesis of zinc NPs (ZnO NPs) from aqueous leaf extract of Murraya koenigii (MK). The synthesized Murraya koeingii zinc oxide NPs (MK ZnO NPs) were characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy‐dispersive spectrum (EDS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The synthesized MK ZnO NPs were evaluated for their in vitro antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activity. They demonstrated significant antidiabetic and cytotoxic activity, as well as moderate free‐radical scavenging and antibacterial activity.
Adhesion, proliferation, and detachment of various cell types on thermoresponsive microgel coatings
Authors: Flechner Marie , Schaller Julia , Stahl Maike , Achberger Kevin , Gerike Susanna , Hannappel Yvonne , Fu Jianan , Jaeger Magnus , Hellweg Thomas , Duschl Claus , Uhlig Katja
Published: March 2022

Cutting‐edge biomedical applications require increasingly complex and fastidious cell systems, for example, various classes of primary or stem cells. Their cultivation, however, still differs little from 30 years ago. This especially applies to the use of indiscriminative proteases for nonspecific cell detachment. A far more gentle alternative changes the adhesive properties of the cell culture substrates through coatings based on thermoresponsive polymers. Such polymers mediate cell adhesion at 37°C, but become repulsive upon a cell‐compatible temperature drop to, for example, 32°C. While the high functionality of this method has already been well proven, it must also be easy and reproducible to apply. Here, we emphasize the potential of standard cell culture materials coated by spraying with thermoresponsive microgels for routine cultivation and beyond. On these surfaces, we successfully cultivated and detached various cell types, including induced pluripotent stem cells and cells in serum‐free culture. In addition, we evaluated the compatibility of the microgel‐sprayed surfaces with adhesion‐promoting proteins, which are essential for, for example, stem cells or neuronal cells. Finally, we demonstrate that the microgel surfaces do not impair proliferation and show their long‐term stability. We conclude that for cell detachment, thermoresponsive cell culture substrates can fully substitute proteases, like trypsin, by employing a comparably straightforward protocol that is compatible with many industrial processing lines.
Polyphenol Composition, Anticholinesterase and Antioxidant Potential of the Extracts of Clinopodium vulgare L.
Authors: Bektašević Mejra , Politeo Olivera , Roje Marin , Jurin Mladenka
Published: March 2022

Clinopidium vulgare L. (wild basil, Lamiaceae) is a well‐known medicinal plant used in the traditional medicine in many countries. Medicinal plants present potential sources of bioactive compounds. Many of them are rich in polyphenol compounds that show biological potential in terms of protecting biological molecules from oxidation and in inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes, which may be significant in the treatment of diseases related to oxidative stress. In this work, we examined the chemical composition of Clinopodium vulgare L. hot water and methanol extract using spectroscopic and HPLC/DAD techniques. Using DPPH and FRAP methods the antioxidant activity was analyzed. The ability to protect proteins and lipids from oxidation was also determined as well as the ability of extracts to inhibit cholinesterase enzymes using Ellman's method. Analyzed extracts were rich in polyphenol compounds. Among 16 identified and quantified phenolic compounds dominant were: rosmarinic (26.63 and 34.21 mg/g) and ellagic acid (23.11 and 29.31 mg/g) of hot water and methanol extract, respectively. They show good antioxidant activity and good potential in protecting lipids from oxidation. The ability of extracts to inhibit enzyme acetylcholinesterase was weak, while inhibition of the butyrylcholinesterase was missing. Extracts show prooxidant activity in terms of protecting proteins from oxidation.
Proteomic Tools for the Quantitative Analysis of Artificial Peptide Libraries: Detection and Characterization of Target‐Amplified PD‐1 Inhibitors
Authors: Gay Marina , Díaz‐Lobo Mireia , Gusi‐Vives Mar , Arauz‐Garofalo Gianluca , Vilanova Mar , Giralt Ernest , Vilaseca Marta , Guardiola Salvador
Published: April 2022

We report a quantitative proteomics data analysis pipeline, which coupled to protein‐directed dynamic combinatorial chemistry (DDC) experiments, enables the rapid discovery and direct characterization of protein‐protein interaction (PPI) modulators. A low‐affinity PD‐1 binder was incubated with a library of >100 D‐peptides under thiol‐exchange favoring conditions, in the presence of the target protein PD‐1, and we determined the S‐linked dimeric species that resulted, amplified in the protein samples versus the controls. We chemically synthesized the target dimer candidates and validated them by thermophoresis binding and protein‐protein interaction assays. The results provide a proof‐of‐concept for using this strategy in the high‐throughput search of improved drug‐like peptide binders that block therapeutically relevant protein‐protein interactions.
Diversifying STEM pathways: A look into upward transfer students’ sense of belonging in computing
Authors: Blaney Jennifer M. , Barrett Julia , Choi Yoon Ha
Published: March 2022

This article discusses transfer pathways to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) degrees and highlights ways in which existing literature on equity in STEM fails to represent transfer student experiences, limiting opportunities to support transfer students and diversify STEM programs. More specifically, we synthesize findings across research studies—focusing closely on recent studies of disparities in students’ sense of belonging in computing—to make a case that existing research on equity in computing is not generalizable to students following upward transfer pathways to their computing degree. Implications for centering upward transfer students’ experiences in future research and practice are discussed.
Enhanced Specific Capacitance and Stability of Polyaniline by Nafion Doping
Authors: Fu Xudong , Xia Chunguang , Qu Jingwen , Lei Shulin , Zuo Xingping , Mao Zihan , Liu Qingting , Luo Ping , Zhang Rong , Hu Shengfei
Published: March 2022

Polyaniline (PANI) is a promising electrode material for supercapacitors, but its reported specific capacitance is much lower than its theoretical capacitance. This is because the PANI molecular chains are tightly packed, and the electrolyte is left with a difficult path to penetrate into the interior regions of PANI. Large anions can be doped into PANI and expand the distance between adjacent PANI molecular chains, thereby increasing the utilization of PANI. In this work, Nafion‐doped PANI was synthesized by in situ chemical polymerization in aniline monomer and Nafion solution and the Nafion content was tuned to improve the overall performance. The specific capacitance of Nafion‐doped PANI with an optimized Nafion content (4.76 wt %) reached 603.9 and 378.4 F/g at 1 and 50 mV/s), which are both higher than that of PANI (580.0 and 347.7 F/g at 1 and 50 mV/s). The capacitance retention of Nafion (16.67 wt %)‐doped PANI was 64.89 % after 1000 cycles, which is better than that of PANI alone (20.25 %). This work provides a facile approach to increasing the utilization of PANI as an electrode material for supercapacitors.
A brief note on a new faster covariate's selection (fCovSel) algorithm
Authors: Mishra Puneet
Published: March 2022

Covariate's selection (CovSel) is a variable selection technique in the domain of chemometrics and is commonly used for extracting variables carrying high covariance with response variables. CovSel is a special case of partial least square analysis, where at each weight estimation step, the weight vector is of the binary form to select the variables. In the earlier algorithm of the CovSel which is identical to the nonlinear iterative partial least square (NIPALS), there is a key step of predictor matrix deflation which makes it a time‐consuming approach leading to longer time consumption during tasks such as cross‐validation or in multiblock multiway CovSel scenarios where a wide number of variables combinations are usually explored for model optimization. We present a new CovSel algorithm called faster CovSel (fCovSel) which drops the need for predictor matrix deflation. By dropping the predictor matrix deflation step, the method naturally becomes faster than the CovSel based on NIPALS. Mathematical and analytical comparisons of the CovSel and the fCovSel in terms of achieving the same solution and time requirements are presented.
First‐Principles Design of Na‐ion Superionic Conductors: Interstitial‐Based Na Diffusion in NaCuZrS3
Authors: Wang Yuandong , Lin Aming , Chai Jun , Ming Chen , Sun Yi‐Yang
Published: March 2022

In recent years all‐solid‐state sodium‐ion batteries (SS‐SIBs) have drawn significant attention due to their potential to be safer and lower cost than lithium‐ion batteries. However, the lack of sodium solid‐state electrolytes with high ionic conductivity has become one of the major challenges. Here, with first‐principles computation we took NaCuZrS3, consisting of earth‐abundant and environmentally benign elements only, as an example to study Na‐ion transport in the post‐perovskite‐like structure and used computation‐guided design to improve its potential as a solid‐state electrolyte. With ab initio molecular dynamics simulation and nudged elastic band calculation, we studied possible diffusion mechanisms in this material and found that Na ion interstitials have a favorable migration barrier of 0.22 eV, which is among the smallest in the literature reported values. Considering the large formation energy of Frenkel defects, we proposed doping strategy to introduce extra Na interstitials in the material. Our study suggests that the post‐perovskite‐like sulfides are worth of exploration for applications in SS‐SIBs.
Glucosylated 5‐Hydroxymethylpyrimidines as Epigenetic DNA Bases Regulating Transcription and Restriction Cleavage
Authors: Chakrapani Aswathi , Ruiz‐Larrabeiti Olatz , Pohl Radek , Svoboda Martin , Krásný Libor , Hocek Michal
Published: March 2022

5‐(β‐d‐Glucopyranosyloxymethyl)‐2’‐deoxyuridine and ‐cytidine 5’‐O‐triphosphates were prepared and used for polymerase‐mediated (primer extension or PCR) synthesis of DNA containing glucosylated 5‐hydroxymethyluracil (5hmU) or 5‐hydroxymethyluracil (5hmC). The presence of any glucosylated pyrimidines fully protected DNA from cleavage by type II restriction endonucleases. On the other hand, while the presence of glucosylated 5hmU completely inhibited transcription by bacterial (Escherichia coli) RNA polymerase, the DNA containing the corresponding glucosylated 5hmC allowed a similar level of transcription as natural DNA. This suggests different roles of these hypermodified bases in the epigenetic regulation of transcription in bacteriophages or kinetoplastid parasites. Consequently, enzymatic glucosylation of 5hmC‐containing DNA can be used for tuning of transcription activity.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Tetrahydro‐α‐carbolines as Akt1 Inhibitors That Inhibit Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Li Guo , He Xiang‐Hong , Li He‐Ping , Zhao Qian , Li Dong‐Ai , Zhu Hong‐Ping , Zhang Yue‐Hua , Zhan Gu , Huang Wei
Published: March 2022

A series of densely functionalized THαCs were designed and synthesized as Akt1 inhibitors. Organocatalytic [3+3] annulation between indolin‐2‐imines 1 and nitroallylic acetates 2 provided rapid access to this pharmacologically interesting framework. In vitro kinase inhibitory abilities and cytotoxicity assays revealed that compound 3 af [(3S*,4S*)‐4‐(4‐bromo‐2‐fluorophenyl)‐9‐methyl‐3‐nitro‐1‐tosyl‐2,3,4,9‐tetrahydro‐1H‐pyrido[2,3‐b]indole] was the most potent Akt1 inhibitor, and mechanistic study indicated that compound 3 af suppressed the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells via inducing apoptosis and autophagy. Molecular docking suggested that the indole fragment of 3 af was inserted into the hydrophobic pocket of Akt1 protein, and the H‐bond between 3 af and residue Lys179 also contributed to the stable binding. This article provides an efficient strategy to design and synthesize biologically important compounds as novel Akt1 inhibitors.
Venous‐thromboembolism and associated health care utilization in elderly patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Gangaraju Radhika , Davis Elizabeth S. , Bhatia Smita , Kenzik Kelly M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Patients with lymphoma have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The authors examined the risk of VTE and subsequent health care utilization in elderly patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Methods

A total of 5537 DLBCL patients ≥66 years old enrolled in Medicare from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry and a noncancer control group of Medicare beneficiaries (n = 5537) were identified. Cumulative incidence function to examine the risk of VTE 12 months after DLBCL diagnosis was used. Fine and Gray method was used to examine the risk factors associated with VTE risk in multivariable models. Total number of hospitalizations, outpatient visits, and Medicare spending were compared in DLBCL patients with and without VTE.

Results

VTE was diagnosed in 8.3% DLBCL patients and 1.5% controls, yielding an 8.6‐fold higher risk of VTE in DLBCL in adjusted analysis (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.62‐11.20; P < .001). Multivariable regression analysis showed that precancer VTE history was associated with an increased risk of developing VTE after a DLBCL diagnosis (hazard ratio [HR], 5.39; 95% CI, 4.39‐6.63), and Asian individuals were associated with a lower risk (HR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.29‐1.00). Patients newly diagnosed with VTE after lymphoma had a 1.7‐fold higher rate of hospitalization and a 1.2‐fold higher rate of outpatient visits compared to those without, resulting in excess Medicare spending of $22,208 in the first year after DLBCL diagnosis.

Conclusions

Elderly patients with DLBCL have an elevated risk of VTE resulting in excess health care utilization. VTE history before DLBCL was associated with increased risk of post‐DLBCL VTE, and Asian individuals were associated with a lower risk of VTE.
The arbitrary amplitude of a solitary pulse propagating obliquely in electron spin‐polarized plasma
Authors: Gul Nabi , Ahmad Rashid
Published: March 2022

A Separated Spin Evolution Quantum Hydrodynamics Model is employed to investigate arbitrary amplitude ion‐acoustic waves in magnetized plasma, which consists of inertia‐less degenerated electrons with spin‐up and spin‐down states, as well as inertial classical ions. In a two‐dimensional plasma geometry, a homogeneous magnetic field is assumed to be directed along the z‐axis, that is, . In the linear analysis, two branches of waves propagation are found to occur in the oblique direction. The characteristics of large‐amplitude ions solitary waves propagation in oblique direction are studied through an energy‐balance equation, by applying a Sagdeev potential approach. The parametric role of the spin density polarization ratio on the properties of solitary wave structures, as well as other important plasma parameters, is traced analytically. The scope of our work is significant to study dilute magnetic semiconductors, magnetosphere, and as well as astrophysical systems.
Dynamic task offloading for Internet of Things in mobile edge computing via deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Chen Ying , Gu Wei , Li Kaixin
Published: March 2022

With the development of Internet of Things (IoT), more and more computation‐intensive tasks are generated by IoT devices. Due to the limitation of battery and computing capacity of IoT devices, these tasks can be offloaded to mobile edge computing (MEC) and cloud for processing. However, as the channel states and task generation process are dynamic, and the scales of task offloading problem and solution space size are increasing rapidly, the collaborative task offloading for MEC and cloud faces severe challenges. In this paper, we integrate the two conflicting offloading goals, which are maximizing the task finish ratio with tolerable delay and minimizing the power consumption of devices. We formulate the task offloading problem to balance the two conflicting goals. Then, we reformulate it as an MDP‐based dynamic task offloading problem. We design a deep reinforcement learning (DRL)‐based dynamic task offloading (DDTO) algorithm to solve this problem. Our DDTO algorithm can adapt to the dynamic and complex environment and adjust the task offloading strategies accordingly. Experiments are also carried out which show that our DDTO algorithm can converge quickly. The experiment results also validate the effectiveness and efficacy of our DDTO algorithm in balancing finish ratio and power.
Facial muscle modification associated with chiropteran noseleaf development: Insights into the developmental basis of a movable rostral appendage in mammals
Authors: Usui Kaoru , Khannoon Eraqi R. , Tokita Masayoshi
Published: April 2022

Background

Mammal evolution has generated diverse craniofacial morphologies, including remarkable movable rostral appendages. However, the muscular and skeletal architecture providing the mobility of these appendages remains largely unexplored. Here, we focus on chiropteran noseleaves and compare the three‐dimensional internal morphology of late‐stage embryos between the greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, which possesses a noseleaf, and the Asian bent‐winged bat Miniopterus fuliginosus and Egyptian fruit bat Rousettus aegyptiacus, which do not. We also assess earlier stage cell proliferation within the rostrum to elucidate cellular mechanisms underlying noseleaf‐associated morphological modifications.

Results

The musculus maxillolabialis inserted into proximal vibrissae follicles in M fuliginosus and R aegyptiacus embryos but instead inserted into the horseshoe plate in R ferrumequinum. This modification suggests that the M maxillolabialis has adapted to controlling the noseleaf rather than vibrissae in rhinolophid bats. Our cellular analysis showed higher cell proliferation within the maxillary and frontonasal processes of St. 14 embryos in R ferrumequinum compared to M fuliginosus and R aegyptiacus, suggesting that the spatial alteration of noseleaf‐associated muscle is derived from changes in facial morphogenesis that occur by St. 14.

Conclusion

This is the first study clarifying the morphological and cellular bases underlying the development of mammalian rostral appendages.
The evolution of the Aristolochia pallida complex (Aristolochiaceae) challenges traditional taxonomy and reflects large‐scale glacial refugia in the Mediterranean
Authors: Krause Cornelia , Oelschlägel Birgit , Mahfoud Hafez , Frank Dominik , Lecocq Gérard , Shuka Lulëzim , Neinhuis Christoph , Vargas Pablo , Tosunoglu Aycan , Thiv Mike , Wanke Stefan
Published: March 2022

The taxonomy of the Mediterranean Aristolochia pallida complex has been under debate since several decades with the following species currently recognized: A. pallida, A. lutea, A. nardiana, A. microstoma, A. merxmuelleri, A. croatica, and A. castellana. These taxa are distributed from Iberia to Turkey. To reconstruct phylogenetic and biogeographic patterns, we employed cpDNA sequence variation using both noncoding (intron and spacer) and protein‐coding regions (i.e., trnK intron, matK gene, and trnK‐psbA spacer). Our results show that the morphology‐based traditional taxonomy was not corroborated by our phylogenetic analyses. Aristolochia pallida, A. lutea, A. nardiana, and A. microstoma were not monophyletic. Instead, strong geographic signals were detected. Two major clades, one exclusively occurring in Greece and a second one of pan‐Mediterranean distribution, were found. Several subclades distributed in Greece, NW Turkey, Italy, as well as amphi‐Adriatic subclades, and a subgroup of southern France and Spain, were revealed. The distribution areas of these groups are in close vicinity to hypothesized glacial refugia areas in the Mediterranean. According to molecular clock analyses the diversification of this complex started around 3–3.3 my, before the onset of glaciation cycles, and the further evolution of and within major lineages falls into the Pleistocene. Based on these data, we conclude that the Aristolochia pallida alliance survived in different Mediterranean refugia rarely with low, but often with a high potential for range extension, and a high degree of morphological diversity.
Mechanism underlying painful radiculopathy in patients with lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Samuelly‐Leichtag Gil , Eisenberg Elon , Zohar Yaniv , Andraous Maisa , Eran Ayelet , Sviri Gill E. , Keynan Ory
Published: March 2022

Background

Painful lumbar radiculopathy is a neuropathic pain condition, commonly attributed to nerve root inflammation/compression by disc herniation. The present exploratory study searched for associations between pain intensity and inflammatory markers, herniated disc size, infection, psychological factors and pain modulation in patients with confirmed painful lumbar radiculopathy scheduled for spine surgery.

Methods

Prior to surgery, 53 patients underwent the following evaluation: pain intensity measured on a 0–10 numeric rating scale (NRS) and the Short‐Form McGill Pain Questionnaire; sensory testing (modified DFNS protocol); pain processing including temporal summation and conditioned pain modulation (CPM); neurological examination; psychological assessment including Spielberger's Anxiety Inventory, Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale. Pro‐inflammatory cytokine levels (IL‐1b, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐17, TNFα, IFNg) and microbial infection (ELISA and rt‐PCR) in blood and disc samples obtained during surgery. MRI scans assessments for disc herniation size/volume (MSU classification/ three‐dimensional volumetric analysis).

Results

Complete data were available from 40 (75%) patients (15 female) aged 44.8 ± 16.3 years. Pain intensity (NRS) positively correlated with pain catastrophizing and CPM (r = 0.437, p = 0.006; r = 0.421, p = 0.007; respectively), but not with disc/blood cytokine levels, bacterial infection or MRI measures. CPM (p = 0.001) and gender (p = 0.029) were associated with average pain intensity (adjusted R2 = 0.443).

Conclusions

This exploratory study suggests that pain catastrophizing, CPM and gender, seem to contribute to pain intensity in patients with painful lumbar radiculopathy. The role of mechanical compression and inflammation in determining the intensity of painful radiculopathy remains obscure.

Significance of study

Pain catastrophizing, CPM and gender rather than objective measures of inflammation and imaging seem to contribute to pain in patients with painful radiculopathy.
High‐Rate Performance of Fluorinated Carbon Material Doped by Phosphorus Species for Lithium‐Fluorinated Carbon Battery
Authors: Zhu Delun , Yuan Jingchao , Dai Yang , Peng Yuqing , Li Wenrong , Zhang Fangzhou , Li Aijun , Zhang Jiujun
Published: April 2022

The lithium–fluorinated carbon (Li/CFx) battery possesses the highest energy density (2180 Wh kg−1) among all the primary lithium batteries. However, the poor electronic conductivity of the fluorinated carbon (CFx) material sets a limit on its rate discharge capability, confining its practical application. In this article, a doping strategy at a mild anneal condition is developed to synthesize the phosphorus species‐doped CFx materials (P‐CFx) for Li/CFx batteries. Compared to the commonly used methods, this eco‐friendly, and simple doping method does not involve washing, centrifugation, and filtration processes. Characterization using X‐Ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscope, and X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the successful doping and the structure of the P‐CFx. Density functional theory calculations and characterization results demonstrate that phosphorus species doping can alter microstructure and induce charge redistribution to improve electronic and ionic conductivity. Therefore, the Li/P‐CFx battery possesses a high specific capacity and an excellent rate capability, shown by a high discharge capacity of 810 mAh g−1 with a voltage plateau of 2.53 V at 0.1 C. Extraordinarily, a discharge capacity of 597 mAh g−1 with a voltage plateau of 1.90 V at 20 C has been achieved as well as a high power density of 34 048 W kg−1.
Retracted: Effect of coal dust parameters on gas‐coal dust explosions in pipe networks
Authors: Jinzhang Jia , Fengxiao Wang , Jie Li , Jinchao Zhu , Yinuo Chen
Published: April 2022

To study the effects of particle size of coal dust and mass concentration of coal dust on gas‐coal dust explosions, we conducted sedimentary gas‐coal dust explosion experiments using a pipe network system that included multiple components and individual interactions, which were independently designed and constructed. Experimental conclusions were then theoretically verified based on factor response surface theory. When the particle size of coal dust was constant, the maximum explosion pressure, flame propagation velocity, and flame temperature of the explosion initially increased and then decreased with increasing mass concentration. When the mass concentration of coal dust was constant, the maximum explosion pressure, flame propagation velocity, and flame temperature of the explosion also initially increased and then decreased with increasing particle size. The mass concentration and particle size values of the coal dust were 100 g/m3 and 50 μm, respectively, and under these conditions, the explosion was the most violent. The effects of mass concentration on the maximum explosion pressure and flame temperature were greater than the particle size of the coal dust, and the effect of particle size on the flame front velocity was greater than the mass concentration of the coal dust. The conclusions obtained in this study provide a generalized theoretical basis for the effects of coal dust on hybrid gas‐coal dust explosions.
Roadside units plane optimization scheme in software‐defined vehicular networks
Authors: Mao Ming , Yi Peng , Zhang Jianhui , Wang Liang , Gu Yuan , Zhang Guanying
Published: April 2022

As a new research field, software‐defined vehicular networks (SDVN) provide a novel idea for the network management of the internet of vehicles. Due to the time‐sensitivity of vehicle edge networks, time delay optimization for flow rule management is of great significance to improve system performance. Some existing SDVN architectures select part of the underlying roadside units (RSUs) as underlying controllers to assist the upper control plane. There is no mention of how to optimize the state switching between the RSU controller and the common RSU, which may increase the delay and communication overhead. This paper proposes an RSU plane optimization scheme to reduce the state fluctuation between RSUs with control functions. Firstly, we propose a state fluctuation optimization model of the RSU plane. Secondly, the division method and dynamic adjustment strategy of the RSU plane are designed. Finally, a position prediction method is utilized to realize the pre‐installation of flow rules. We use two common methods (greedy and dynamic schemes) to compare with the minimum state fluctuation approach. The simulation analyzes the performance using four parameters. Under the same conditions, the proposed scheme can reduce the flow setup delay and end‐to‐end delay, while reducing the number of controllers and overhead.
Trans
Authors: Chaudhry V Varun
Published: March 2022

This reflection examines the potential and pitfalls of “trans” as a keyword for feminist anthropology. Drawing on the experiences of one Black trans woman advocate in particular, the author argues for trans as a scalar project, with both potential and pitfalls. The author argues that trans as a scalar project in feminist anthropology pushes the field to recognize the limits, excess, and continuities between, across, and through different gender and sexual categories.
On the investigation of oblique shock‐wave/turbulent boundary‐layer interactions with a high‐order discontinuous Galerkin method
Authors: Gao Min , Kuhn Thomas , Munz Claus‐Dieter
Published: March 2022

Shock‐wave/turbulent boundary‐layer interactions are still a challenge for numerical simulation. The shock capturing needs dissipation to avoid spurious oscillations while turbulence will be falsified by introducing dissipation. Especially, an accurate prediction of quantities such as the skin‐friction coefficient inside the interaction area of shock wave and turbulent flow is a critical point. In this article, we investigate a wall‐resolved large eddy simulation of oblique shock‐wave/turbulent boundary‐layer interactions by a high‐order discontinuous Galerkin scheme. The high‐order scheme handles the turbulent flow very well. The shock‐capturing is confined to the near shock region by switching locally to a finite volume second‐order TVD scheme on subcells. This strategy is completed with the application of a shock indicator to a filtered flow field. A global spanwise filter is applied to avoid switching on the shock‐capturing procedure in regions of under‐resolved turbulent structures. We validate our numerical results first at shock‐wave/laminar boundary‐layer interaction. The main simulation under consideration is a Mach turbulent boundary‐layer with an inlet momentum‐thickness Reynolds number of , interacting with an oblique shock that deflects the incoming flow by . We employ a reformulated synthetic eddy method at the inlet to avoid the influence of recycling‐based turbulence generating schemes on the low‐frequency unsteadiness. The anisotropic linear forcing technique is adopted to further reduce the turbulence recovery length. Through the spectral analysis of wall pressure probes, a typical Strouhal number of around is observed. We attribute the discrepancies between an experimental scaling law and our computation to the three‐dimensional sidewall effects in the experiment. With the assistance of numerical results from this article and other authors, a new scaling law for the spanwise‐periodic computations is suggested to quantify the difference between experimental and computed data.
Deep learning derived automated ASPECTS on non‐contrast CT scans of acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Cao Zehong , Xu Jiaona , Song Bin , Chen Lizhou , Sun Tianyang , He Yichu , Wei Ying , Niu Guozhong , Zhang Yu , Feng Qianjin , Ding Zhongxiang , Shi Feng , Shen Dinggang
Published: March 2022

Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke, ranked as the second leading cause of death worldwide. The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) is considered as a systematic method of assessing ischemic change on non‐contrast CT scans (NCCT) of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients, while still suffering from the requirement of experts' experience and also the inconsistent results between readers. In this study, we proposed an automated ASPECTS method to utilize the powerful learning ability of neural networks for objectively scoring CT scans of AIS patients. First, we proposed to use the CT perfusion (CTP) from one‐stop stroke imaging to provide the golden standard of ischemic regions for ASPECTS scoring. Second, we designed an asymmetry network to capture features when comparing the left and right sides for each ASPECTS region to estimate its ischemic status. Third, we performed experiments in a large main dataset of 870 patients, as well as an independent testing dataset consisting of 207 patients with radiologists' scorings. Experimental results show that our network achieved remarkable performance, as sensitivity and accuracy of 93.7 and 92.4% in the main dataset, and 95.5 and 91.3% in the independent testing dataset, respectively. In the latter dataset, our analysis revealed a high positive correlation between the ASPECTS score and the prognosis of patients in 90DmRs. Also, we found ASPECTS score is a good indicator of the size of CTP core volume of an infraction. The proposed method shows its potential for automated ASPECTS scoring on NCCT images.
An overview of the occurrence, fate, and human risks of the bisphenol-A present in plastic materials, components, and products
Authors: Hahladakis John N. , Iacovidou Eleni , Gerassimidou Spyridoula
Published: April 2022

With over 95% of bisphenol-A (BPA) used in the production of polycarbonate (PC) and epoxy resins, termed here as BPA-based plastic materials, components, and products (MCPs), an investigation of human exposure to BPA over the whole lifecycle of BPA-based plastic MCPs is necessary. This mini-review unpacks the implications arising from the long-term human exposure to BPA and its potential accumulation across the lifecycle of BPA-based plastics (production, use, and management). This investigation is timely and necessary in promoting a sustainable circular economy model. Restrictions of BPA in the form of bans and safety standards are often specific to products, while safety limits rely on traditional toxicological and biomonitoring methods that may underestimate human health implications and therefore the “safety” of BPA exposure. Controversies in regards to the: (a) dose–response curves; (b) the complexity of sources, release mechanisms, and pathways of exposure; and/or (c) the quality and reliability of toxicological studies, appear to currently stifle progress toward the regulation of BPA-based plastic MCPs. Due to the abundance of BPA in our MCPs production, consumption, and management systems, there is partial and inadequate evidence on the contribution of BPA-based plastic MCPs to human exposure to BPA. Yet, the production, use, and end-of-life management of plastic MCPs constitute the most critical BPA source and potential exposure pathways that require further investigation. Active collaboration among risk assessors, government, policy-makers, and researchers is needed to explore the impacts of BPA in the long term and introduce restrictions to BPA-based MCPs. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:45–62. © 2022 SETAC
RAGE is a potential biomarker implicated in immune infiltrates and cellular senescence in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lin Zhihui , Yu Biyun , Yuan Li , Tu Jinjing , Shao Chuan , Tang Yaodong
Published: March 2022

Background

Receptor for Advanced Glycation End‐products (RAGE) is an oncogene abnormally expressed in various cancers. However, the clinical value of RAGE and the biological role of RAGE in lung cancer have not been fully investigated.

Methods

We compared the RAGE expression using several public databases. The relationship between RAGE expression and clinicopathological variables was assessed. The R software package was used to carry out enrichment analyses of RAGE co‐expression and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Additionally, we used the TIMER database to assess the association between immune infiltration and RAGE expression. The correlation between RAGE expression and senescence biomarkers in lung adenocarcinoma was analyzed using the TCGA database.

Results

Our findings indicated that the expression of RAGE was downregulated in lung adenocarcinoma, and down‐regulation of RAGE was related to poor overall survival and disease‐free survival. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that RAGE co‐expression genes were mainly associated with neutrophil activation involved in immune response, neutrophil degranulation, and regulation of leukocyte‐mediated immunity. Correlation analysis revealed that RAGE expression was closely related to the purity of the tumor and immune infiltration. GSEA indicated that the RAGE‐related differential genes were mainly enriched in senescence‐related pathways. Besides, the RAGE expression was significantly associated with senescence‐related genes.

Conclusion

Down‐regulation of RAGE expression was associated with poor prognosis, as well as defective immune infiltration and cellular senescence in lung adenocarcinoma.
Intersectional social identities and loneliness: Evidence from a municipality in Switzerland
Authors: Li Yang , Spini Dario
Published: March 2022

We examined the extent to which intersectional social identities combine to shape risks of loneliness and identified the specific social clusters that are most at risk of loneliness for more precise and targeted interventions to reduce loneliness in a Swiss municipality. Based on data collected using participatory action research, we used the novel multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA) to estimate the predictive power of intersectional social attributes on risk of loneliness. We found that 56% of the between‐strata variance was captured by intersectional interaction but was not explained by the additive effect of social identities. We also found that nationality and education had the strongest predictive power for loneliness. Interventions to reduce loneliness may benefit from understanding the resident population's intersectional identities given that individuals with the same combinations of social identities face a common set of social exposures relating to loneliness.
The clinical application of ultrasonography with superb microvascular imaging‐a review
Authors: Tang Kui , Liu Minghui , Zhu Yun , Zhang Ming , Niu Chengcheng
Published: March 2022

Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) is among the latest doppler ultrasound methods. It uses an advanced clutter filter to eliminate artifacts caused by breathing, movement and retains the low‐speed blood signals in microvessels. The great advantage of SMI is that it can intuitively detect very slow blood signals in microvessels, providing clinicians with more significant information about flow distribution in the target area. Therefore, it is speculated that SMI has important application value. The purpose of this article is to outline the application of SMI in different parts of the body.