bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alumina Surface Treated TiO2 - From Process to Application
Authors: Veronovski Nika
Published: June 2021

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) has found widespread use. Typically it is used in another matrix to impart certain properties. For example, it is widely used as a white pigment for paints and polymers. The aim of this research work was to achieve improvements in the sense of processability as well as the dispersion performance of alumina surface treated pigmentary TiO2in polymer matrix. Wet chemical method was used to modify the surface of the TiO2 pigment. Surface treatment included precipitation of hydrous oxides of aluminium on the surface of TiO2 particles. During controlled surface treatment, agglomeration has been avoided, which has been proved to improve applicative properties of TiO2 particles. In addition to that, organic additives were applied to enhance performance attributes of the pigmentary TiO2. The effectiveness of surface treatment was determined using scanning-transmission (STEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy. Quantitative evaluation of quality and dispersion of the pigments has been performed using Filter pressure test. Lower pressure generated during filter pressure test when particles were well dispersed in a polymer matrix. Surface treatment also affected pigment processibility; i.e. filterability and settling, which is of high importance for process planning.
Taktfuldt samarbejde
Authors: Carlsen Dorthe
Published: June 2021

I denne responsartikel diskuteres tre bidrag ud fra en pædagogisk typologi over forskellige teori-praksis-samarbejder og det tilknyttede begreb «pædagogisk takt».
An algorithm for embedding Turán graphs into incomplete hypercubes with minimum wirelength
Authors: Shantrinal A. Arul , Klavžar Sandi , Rajalaxmi T.M. , Rajan R. Sundara
Published: June 2021

The wirelength is one of the key parameters of the quality of embedding graphs into host graphs. To our knowledge, no results for computing the wirelength of embedding irregular graphs into irregular graphs are known in the literature. We develop an algorithm that determines the wirelength of embedding of the Turán graph $T(\ell, 2^p)$, where $2^{n-1} \leq \ell < 2^{n}$ and $1\le p\le \lceil \log_2 \ell\rceil\leq n$, into the incomplete hypercube $I^{\ell}_{n}$. Incomplete hypercubes form an important generalization of hypercubes because they eliminate the restriction on the number of nodes in a system.
The experience of non-traditional study of the poetics of literary works (on the example of the book “Fontanelle” by Meir Shalev)
Authors: Rozin Vadim Markovich
Published: June 2021

This article offers a nontraditional approach towards studying the poetics of literary work, which considers personality of the reader and analysis of the reality that he reconstructs and experiences. The empirical material is comprised on the authorial analysis of the poetics of Meir Shalev's novel “Fontanelle”. This literary work features the four major themes: love of the protagonist Michael, creation of the new world from its inception, the characteristic of life values of a person, and discussion of the peculiarities of reality that Meir Shalev builds as an artist. In the first theme, the author reveals several images of love, reflecting on the mystical love of the protagonist for the young woman Ana, love in the family and marriage, love for children. At the same time, the author discusses not only the way that Meir Shalev understands and describes love in “Fontanelle”, but also talks about the own interpretation of love. In the plotline of the second theme, the author also distinguishes two lines: the story the protagonist’s grandfather Apupa, who carries his beloved Amuma on his shoulders across the country, seeking a place where they could create a home and family; and the story of gradual development of a small settlement into a city, created by Apupa and Amuma on the mountain, and several Jewish families at the lower valley. Discussing in the third topic the anchors of human life, the author emphasizes such values as effort, love, family and family line, creativity, indicating that Michael is not alone, he is loved, he gets involved in family history, as well as the history of Israel and Jewish culture, drawing strength in the heroes of this story. The last part of the article gives characteristic to the reality of “Fontanelle” and explains why the author liked it.
Methodology for assessing the effectiveness of financing social expenditures considering the risk
Authors: Yashina Nadezhda , Yashin Sergei Nikolaevich , Poiyushcheva Elena , Pronchatova-Rubtsova Nataliya Nikolaevna
Published: June 2021

  Currently, all the prerequisites have been met for transitioning to the qualitatively higher level of public finance management that correspond to the generally accepted principles and international standards. The responsibility for choosing the most effective methods of public expenditure management increases with the development of innovation economy. This actualizes the problem of improving the state financing of social expenditures. The subject of this research is the assessment of the effectiveness of government spending in the area of social policy, considering the range of indicators that reflect socioeconomic development of the regions. The score is suggested for assessing the effectiveness of government spending in the area of social policy based on the standardized values of the criteria that describe the aspects of social policy of the regions and the peculiarities of their economic development. The proposed methodology for integrated assessment of the effectiveness of government spending takes into account the trends in the criteria that characterize the level of economic development of the regions, as well as possible variability of budget flows aimed at financing social expenditures. Practical implementation of such methodology allows classifying the territories by the level of efficiency of social expenditures, which facilitates rational financial decisions on the formation of resources that ensure sustainable economic growth and development of strong human capital.  
Statistical characteristics of total ionizing dose effects of bipolar transistors
Authors: Li Shun , Song Yu , Zhou Hang , Dai Gang , Zhang Jian ,   Microsystem and Terahertz Research Center, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Chengdu 610200, China,   College of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Neijiang Normal University, Neijiang 641112, China,   School of Electronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610000, China,   Institute of Electronic Engineering, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Mianyang 621000, China
Published: June 2021

The base current (IB) of silicon bipolar transistor degrades when it is subjected to total ionizing dose (TID) irradiation, which is due to the generation of oxide trapped charges (Not) in the oxide layer and interface traps (Nit) at the silica/silicon interface. In this work, we investigate the statistical characteristic of IB of bipolar transistors and its possible microscopic origin. Especially, we carry out TID irradiation experiments on a large sample size of gated lateral PNP (GLPNP) transistors. Forty GLPNP transistors are sequentially irradiated to the total doses of 0.6 krad (Si), 2.6 krad (Si), 4.0 krad (Si), 7.4 krad (Si), and 10.8 krad (Si). The statistical characteristics of their IB, Not, and Nit are obtained from the Gummel, gate sweep (GS), and sub-threshold sweep (DS) curves, respectively. It is found that no matter what the dose is, IB, Not, and Nit all follow a lognormal distribution. However, the distribution parameters change as the irradiation dose increases. Remarkably, the statistical median and standard deviation of IB as a function of dose show a strong correlation with those of Not, but essentially differ from those of Nit. This fact uncovers that for our research objects and dose rate, the sample-to-sample variability of IB mainly stems from the variation of Not. These interesting results should have potential applications in exploring the mechanism and evaluating the irradiation reliability of bipolar microcircuits.
Molecular dynamics simulation of phase transition by thermal spikes in monoclinic ZrO2
Authors: Zhao Zhong-Hua , Qu Guang-Hao , Yao Jia-Chi , Min Dao-Min , Zhai Peng-Fei , Liu Jie , Li Sheng-Tao ,   State Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Power Equipment, School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China,   Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
Published: June 2021

Owing to its excellent corrosion, radiation and high temperature resistance, ZrO2 has been considered as a strong candidate material for inert fuel for the incineration of actinides. In this paper, a combination of thermal spike model and molecular dynamics is used to simulate the phase transition process of ZrO2 in the nuclear radiation environment. Based on the thermal spike model, two coupled diffusion equations are established with considering the multiple physical process of energy deposition and transmission after the implantation of swift heavy ions into target material. The space-time evolution characteristics of ZrO2 lattice temperature are obtained by solving the coupled diffusion equations numerically. Then the phase transformation of ZrO2 form monoclinic phase to tetragonal phase under the thermal spike is investigated on an atomic scale by means of molecular dynamics. It is found that a cylindrical track with a radius of 7 nm is generated in the center of ZrO2 after the implantation of swift heavy ion with an electronic energy loss of 30 keV·nm–1. The lattice melts immediately in the center of track, accompanied with the coordination number of Zr decreasing from 7 to 4–6. Then at about 2 ps, the melting zone gradually turns cool and recrystallized. And in the center of the melting zone, voids begin to form and are surrounded by a highly disordered amorphous region. Meanwhile, tetragonal phase of ZrO2, whose coordination number of Zr is 8, is formed at the periphery of the amorphous region, which is also confirmed by the XRD calculation results. As energy transfers from track center to the surround, the tetragonal region gradually develops into the whole system, accompanied with the increase of voids size. The simulation results indicate that the irradiation of ZrO2 with swift heavy ions can lead to a transformation from the monoclinic to the tetragonal phase when the deposited electronic energy loss exceeds an effective threshold ~21 keV·nm–1, greater than the experimental value (12 keV·nm–1), which was mainly due to the large difference between the simulated and measured incident ion fluences and the accuracy of the force field used in the molecular dynamics.
Comparative study of reduced-order electrochemical models of the lithium-ion battery
Authors: Li Tao , Cheng Xi-Ming , Hu Chen-Hua ,   National Engineering Labortary for Electric Vehicles, School of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
Published: June 2021

A reliable and efficient lithium-ion battery model is the basis of state estimation and fault diagnosis in the battery management system (BMS). The pseudo-two-dimensional (P2D) mechanism model represented by using partial differential equations has many parameters and high accuracy, but its calculation is time-consuming. The model order should be reduced for the on-board BMS. Here in this work, by using the same model parameters, the P2D model and the order-reduced models including the single particle model (SPM) and the lumped particle model (LPM) are built and their voltage accuracies and operation time are compared with each other. Based on the porous electrode model, the concentrated solution theory, and the assumption of uniform current of the battery, the current density is redistributed by the volume ratio of the solid phase to the liquid phase of the electrode. Furthermore, the overpotential and ohmic resistance caused by the lithium-ion concentration distribution in the liquid phase is deduced to offset the battery voltage bias under a large discharge rate. An unconstrained convex optimization method is established to optimize the concentration difference overpotential of the liquid phase of the P2D model battery, the optimized results of which are used to compensate for the LPM voltage.Under the conditions of the constant current discharge (CCD) of 0.1C — 4C at the ambient temperature, pulse discharge and dynamic stress test (DST), the electrical performance and the operation time of both the LPM and the SPM are compared to those of the P2D model. Some results are validated and given by the model simulation. Firstly, the accuracy of LPM is over 30% higher than those of the SPM at the CCD rates of 0.1 C, 0.5 C and 1 C, and about 30% worse than those of the SPM at the CCD rates of 2 C, 3 C, and 4 C. Secondly, the optimized LPM can produce a voltage in good approximation to the voltage of the P2D model with an absolute relative error of the model voltage below 1.5% whether it is caused by the CCD or the DST. Thirdly, the optimized LPM can run efficiently and the needed calculation time cuts down by 85% and 65% for the P2D and the SPM, respectively. For the real-time applications of lithium-ion batteries, the proposed compensation method by adding the overpotential in the liquid phase can make the LPM produce reliable voltage with shorter operation time than either the SPM or the P2D model.
Stability of intuitionistic fuzzy nonlinear fractional differential equations
Authors:   LMACS, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Melliani Said , El Mfadel Ali ,   LMACS, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Chadli Lalla Saadia ,   LMACS, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Elomari M’hamed ,   LMACS, Sultan Moulay Slimane University
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we study the existence and uniqueness results of solution for the intuitionistic fuzzy nonlinear fractional differential equations involving the Caputo concepts of fractional derivative. In addition, we establish essentially the Mittag-Leffler stability result for the intuitionistic fuzzy nonlinear fractional differential equations by giving some sufficient criteria to guarantee the stability of the zero solution. Finally, some examples are presented to illustrate the proposed stability theorem.
Evolution of fibroblasts in the lung metastatic microenvironment is driven by stage-specific transcriptional plasticity
Authors: Shani Ophir , Raz Yael , Monteran Lea , Scharff Ye'ela , Levi-Galibov Oshrat , Megides Or , Shacham Hila , Cohen Noam , Silverbush Dana , Avivi Camilla , Sharan Roded , Madi Asaf , Scherz-Shouval Ruth , Barshack Iris , Tsarfaty Ilan , Erez Neta
Published: June 2021

Mortality from breast cancer is almost exclusively a result of tumor metastasis, and lungs are one of the main metastatic sites. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are prominent players in the microenvironment of breast cancer. However, their role in the metastatic niche is largely unknown. In this study, we profiled the transcriptional co-evolution of lung fibroblasts isolated from transgenic mice at defined stage-specific time points of metastases formation. Employing multiple knowledge-based platforms of data analysis provided powerful insights on functional and temporal regulation of the transcriptome of fibroblasts. We demonstrate that fibroblasts in lung metastases are transcriptionally dynamic and plastic, and reveal stage-specific gene signatures that imply functional tasks, including extracellular matrix remodeling, stress response, and shaping the inflammatory microenvironment. Furthermore, we identified Myc as a central regulator of fibroblast rewiring and found that stromal upregulation of Myc transcriptional networks is associated with disease progression in human breast cancer.
BAP1/ASXL complex modulation regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition during trophoblast differentiation and invasion
Authors: Perez-Garcia Vicente , Lea Georgia , Lopez-Jimenez Pablo , Okkenhaug Hanneke , Burton Graham J , Moffett Ashley , Turco Margherita Y , Hemberger Myriam
Published: June 2021

Normal function of the placenta depends on the earliest developmental stages when trophoblast cells differentiate and invade into the endometrium to establish the definitive maternal-fetal interface. Previously, we identified the ubiquitously expressed tumour suppressor BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1) as a central factor of a novel molecular node controlling early mouse placentation. However, functional insights into how BAP1 regulates trophoblast biology are still missing. Using CRISPR/Cas9 knockout and overexpression technology in mouse trophoblast stem cells, here we demonstrate that the downregulation of BAP1 protein is essential to trigger epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during trophoblast differentiation associated with a gain of invasiveness. Moreover, we show that the function of BAP1 in suppressing EMT progression is dependent on the binding of BAP1 to additional sex comb-like (ASXL1/2) proteins to form the polycomb repressive deubiquitinase (PR-DUB) complex. Finally, both endogenous expression patterns and BAP1 overexpression experiments in human trophoblast stem cells suggest that the molecular function of BAP1 in regulating trophoblast differentiation and EMT progression is conserved in mice and humans. Our results reveal that the physiological modulation of BAP1 determines the invasive properties of the trophoblast, delineating a new role of the BAP1 PR-DUB complex in regulating early placentation.
A Cas-BCAR3 co-regulatory circuit controls lamellipodia dynamics
Authors: Steenkiste Elizabeth M , Berndt Jason D , Pilling Carissa , Simpkins Christopher , Cooper Jonathan A
Published: June 2021

Integrin adhesion complexes regulate cytoskeletal dynamics during cell migration. Adhesion activates phosphorylation of integrin-associated signaling proteins, including Cas (p130Cas, BCAR1), by Src-family kinases. Cas regulates leading-edge protrusion and migration in cooperation with its binding partner, BCAR3. However, it has been unclear how Cas and BCAR3 cooperate. Here, using normal epithelial cells, we find that BCAR3 localization to integrin adhesions requires Cas. In return, Cas phosphorylation, as well as lamellipodia dynamics and cell migration, requires BCAR3. These functions require the BCAR3 SH2 domain and a specific phosphorylation site, Tyr 117, that is also required for BCAR3 downregulation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. These findings place BCAR3 in a co-regulatory positive-feedback circuit with Cas, with BCAR3 requiring Cas for localization and Cas requiring BCAR3 for activation and downstream signaling. The use of a single phosphorylation site in BCAR3 for activation and degradation ensures reliable negative feedback by the ubiquitin-proteasome system.
Expression of S100, HMB45 and Melan A in Oral Mucosal Melanoma
Authors: Malgaonkar Nikhil I. , Alotaibi Noura Turki , Alharbi Noura Mohammed , Alsawat Reema Faleh
Published: June 2021

Background: Malignant melanomas of the oral cavity are rare tumours. The diagnosis of mucosal melanoma can be difficult especially when it presents itself in its amelanotic form.

Methodology: An electronic search was carried out on Pubmed and Medline database to find studies addressing this question published between Jan 2001 and April 2020. Multiple studies are done to determine the staining and positivity of the above mentioned three markers were found. A total of 4 studies were finally selected for this review which tried to determine the efficiency of these three markers in the diagnosis of oral mucosal melanomas.

Results: The patient’s data that stained positive S100, HMB45 and Melan A from 4 studies were selected.           

Conclusion: S100 continues to remain the most sensitive marker for melanoma with its promising ability in diagnosing the desmoplastic variant. The lack of specificity is still a drawback of S100.
Clinical Assessment: Short Term Retention of Giomer and Compomer Restorations in Class V Non-Carious Cervical Lesions
Authors: Dall Abdul Qadir Khan , Domki Imdad Hussain , Memon Mahwish , Bibi Batool , Banglani Munir Ahmed , Batool Sarwat
Published: June 2021

Objective: To compare the retention rate of giomer and compomer in Class V restorations in non-carious cervical lesions (NCCL).

Materials and methods: In this experimental study patients with non-carious cervical lesions were divided in to two groups (Group A and B). In group A (n=60), restoration was done with Giomer type of material and in group B (n=60) Compomer type of material was used for filling by the same operator. Cvar & Ryge Criteria were used to evaluate the retention of both materials as: Alpha (restoration fully retained), Bravo (restoration partially retained) and Charlie (restoration completely missing) at follow-ups 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th months. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 17.

Results: Males were 72% and females were 28%. The Mean age was 30.62 ±3.89 ranges from 13–85 years. Charlie score was observed at 5th and 6th months. The comparison between Giomer and Compomer at follow-up of 1st, 2nd, 4rd, 4th, 5th and 6th showed no statistical difference.

Conclusion: Giomer and compomer both have same retention rate in clinical trials.
Role of the Novel Integrated Clinical Pharmacist Menu Software in Improving Medication Therapy Management
Authors: Aziz Muhammad Tahir , Rehman Toofeeq Ur , Qureshi Sadia , Sajjad Kashif
Published: June 2021

Background: Medication therapy management (MTM) continues to offer pharmacists the opportunity to use their knowledge, assist patients and caregiver in improving therapeutic outcomes, however the change is slow. Health information technology has been noted as an important driver in the success of MTM and has a potential role in improving therapeutic outcomes and reducing medication errors.

Objective: This research aimed to design an integrated clinical pharmacist menu (CPM) software along with clinical decision support tools, optimizing MTM services and reducing medication errors.

Methods: The integrated CPM software was designed abridged with decision support tools. A comparative study was conducted in a setting of integrated CPM software versus paper-based clinical pharmacy services (P-CPS) for the evaluation of MTM services. Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) and automated significant laboratory and medication alerts were analyzed for the improvement of MTM and impact on the identification and resolution of medication errors.

Results: MTM improved after the application of the CPM software with a difference of 100% in “medication history generation” and “patient care plan,” with a reduction in medication errors by 39.8%. The identification of medication errors and verification of medication order significantly improved from 49% to 82% (p = 0.00) and from 4.5% to 7.0% (p = 0.00), respectively, in the CPM setting. The CDSS tool in the CPM software generated 730, 1802, and 198 auto alerts for “drug–drug interaction,” “inappropriate dose,” and “dose adjustment in an abnormal clinical laboratory test,” respectively, which improved the resolution and identification of medication errors.

Conclusion: The CPM is user-friendly, which improved the MTM services. Medication error identification and resolution were significantly improved by the CPM software.
Analysis of the Specificity, Sensitivity and Accuracy of Goniometry Method Compared to Tape Method for Measuring Trunk Mobility in Normal Adults
Authors: Patel Purvi
Published: June 2021

Measurement of lumbar range of motion (LROM) is a routine method in the examination of patients with low back pain. There is no standard technique which may be used to accurately describe the range of motion in the different plane. So in present study, an attempt has been made to compare goniometric measurement with tape measurement for its sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for measuring spine mobility in normal adults. In this cross sectional study, 137 healthy adults between the ages of 18-26 years of age were included consecutively and assessed using Tape method and goniometry for trunk mobility in all planes (sagittal, frontal and transverse). The association of goniometry with tape method was assessed using chi square test. The study showed that the difference between goniometry and tape method was statistically significant (p value <0.05) for all movements except flexion (p value 0.215). Also the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of goniometry is not as good as tape method except for flexion compared to tape method. So, from this study we can conclude that Goniometry was not as good as tape method for all movements except forward flexion where both can be equally used.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Red Reflex Test (RRT) for Early Detection of Ocular Abnormalities in Newborn
Authors: Singh Kshitij Aviraj , Taksande Amar
Published: June 2021

Background: The Red Reflex is described as the red to orange reflection of light from the fundus of the eye, observed while using a retinoscope or an ophthalmoscope. Red Eye Reflex Test is determined by the optical media transparency which includes vitreous humor, aqueous humor, cornea and tear film and reflection of light from the  back of the eye (fundus) through optical media and into the aperture of the ophthalmoscope. Factors that will block or impede the passage of light through this transparent media or affects its reflection back from fundus will produce an abnormal Red Eye Reflex. Red Eye Reflex (RER) testing is important & effective tool for early detection of ocular abnormalities such as retinal abnormalities, cataract, retinoblastoma and glaucoma. Red reflex is cost effective, can be performed very easily, requires minimal setting, can screen important ocular abnormalities and facilitate their early detection with prompt intervention to prevent long term sequelae associated with the disease.

Aim: To find out the diagnostic accuracy of Red Reflex test for diagnosing ocular abnormalities in newborns.

Methodology: Ours will be a prospective cross-sectional study where RER examination will be performed within one week of birth of a newborn in a darkened and will correlate the examination findings with respect to ocular findings determined by ophthalmologist to determine its efficacy, sensitivity and specificity in detecting neonatal ocular abnormalities.

Expected results: After completion of the study we will be able to determine the accuracy of RRT for ocular abnormality detection in the neonates. We will be able to determine the sensitivity, specificity, PPV & NPV of the red reflex test. If the specificity and the sensitivity is good then we can use RRT as a routine screening method for detection of intraocular abnormalities.

Conclusion: To find the Red reflex Test efficacy in screening of the ocular abnormalities in the new born.
Comparison of Sarcopenia with Modified Frailty Index as a Predictor of Adverse Outcomes in Critically Ill Elderly Patients
Authors: Bhurchandi Shrirang , Agrawal Sachin , Kumar Sunil , Acharya Sourya
Published: June 2021

Background: Ageing is a global fact affecting both developed and developing countries.It brings out various catabolic changes in body resulting in frailty(i.e. the person is not able to with stand minor stresses of the environment, due to reduced reserves in psychologicalreserve of several organ system).Thus causing a great burden of disease, dependence & health care cost. Sarcopenia is the leading component for frailty in the elderly population, but very few studies have been done in India for correlating frailty with sarcopenia.

Aim: To compare sarcopenia with modified frailty index (MFI) as a predictor of adverse outcomes in critically ill elderly patients.

Methodology: Cross-sectional study will be performed on all the critically ill geriatric subjects/patients coming to all the ICU's of AVBRH, Sawangi (M), Wardha who will satisfy various inclusion and exclusion criteria for selection and all standard parametric & non-parametric data will be assessed by using standard descriptive & inferential statistics.

Expected Results: In our study, we are anticipating that the Modified frailty index to be a better predictor of adverse outcomes in terms of mortality as compared to sarcopenia in the critically ill elderly patients. Also, we are anticipating that sarcopenia to be the most important contributor of frailty in critically ill elderly patients and the prevalence of frailty will be high in critically ill elderly patients.

Limitation: Due to limited time frame & resources we will not be able to follow up the patients.
Sustained compensatory p38 MAPK signaling following treatment with MAPK inhibitors induces the immunosuppressive protein CD73 in cancer: combined targeting could improve outcomes
Authors: Terp Mikkel G. , Gammelgaard Odd L. , Vever Henriette , Gjerstorff Morten F. , Ditzel Henrik J.
Published: June 2021

RAS‐MAPK signaling promotes immune evasion and cancer cell survival, and MAPK inhibitors (MAPKis) are frequently used as cancer therapies. Despite progress elucidating the direct effects of MAPKi on immune cells, their indirect effect on the tumor microenvironment (TME) through changes in tumor cells remains incompletely understood. Here, we present evidence of a rapid compensatory response to MAPKi that is driven by sustained p38 MAPK signaling and by which cancer cells can upregulate the immunosuppressive protein CD73 to reduce the antitumor immune response. This compensatory response also results in decreased sensitivity toward MAPKi, and, accordingly, combining anti‐CD73 antibodies and MAPKi significantly enhances the antitumor effect compared to single‐agent treatment in vivo. Combining MAPKi and anti‐CD73 was accompanied by significant alterations in intratumor immune cell composition, supporting the effect of MAPKi‐induced CD73 expression on the TME. We show that high CD73 expression significantly correlates with worse outcome in MAPKi‐treated colorectal cancer patients, highlighting the potential clinical importance of increased CD73 expression following MAPKi treatment. Our findings may explain the diminished effect of MAPKi in cancer patients and provides further rationale for combined anti‐CD73 and MAPKi treatment.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio predicts early growth of traumatic intracerebral haemorrhage
Authors: Zhuang Dongzhou , Sheng Jiangtao , Peng Guoyi , Li Tian , Cai Shirong , Din Faxiu , Li Lianjie , Huang Mindong , Tian Fei , Li Kangsheng , Wang Shousen , Chen Weiqiang
Published: June 2021

Objective

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been proposed to capture the inflammatory status of patients with various conditions involving the brain. This retrospective study aimed to explore the association between the NLR and the early growth of traumatic intracerebral haemorrhage (tICH) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

A multicentre, observational cohort study was conducted. Patients with cerebral contusion undergoing baseline computed tomography for haematoma volume analysis within 6 h after primary injury and follow‐up visits within 48 h were included. Routine blood tests were performed upon admission, and early growth of tICH was assessed. Prediction accuracies of the NLR for the early growth of tICH and subsequent surgical intervention in patients were analysed.

Results

There were a total of 1077 patients who met the criteria included in the study cohort. Univariate analysis results showed that multiple risk factors were associated with the early growth of tICH and included in the following multivariate analysis models. The multivariate logistic regression analysis results revealed that the NLR was highly associated with the early growth of tICH (p < 0.001) while considering other risk factors in the same model. The prediction accuracy of the NLR for the early growth of tICH in patients is 82%.

Interpretation

The NLR is easily calculated and might predict the early growth of tICH for patients suffering from TBI.
Sarcoidosis and neuromyelitis optica in a patient with optic neuritis – a case report
Authors: Foster Michael A. , Collorone Sara , Palace Jacqueline , Acheson James , Toosy Ahmed T.
Published: June 2021

We present a case of atypical recurrent optic neuritis. A man in his 50s presented with right optic neuritis and profound visual loss, associated with elevated inflammatory markers. Lymph‐node biopsy was consistent with sarcoidosis. Aquaporin‐4 antibodies were also present. Three months following corticosteroid treatment, his right optic neuritis relapsed, again with raised inflammatory markers. He was started on azathioprine and prednisolone with good effect. A dual diagnosis of sarcoidosis and neuromyelitis optica with aquaporin‐4 antibodies is very rare. Long‐term immunosuppression is required. The case highlights the importance of identifying the features and cause of atypical optic neuritis.
Investigation of the Compressive Behavior of a Freeze‐Cast Cu Foam Using Acoustic Emission Measurement
Authors: Kádár Csilla , Park Hyeji , Jenei Péter , Kim Myung-Yeon , Szabó Ábel , Choe Heeman , Gubicza Jenő
Published: June 2021

Herein, the compressive behavior of Cu foams with lamellar structures processed by the freeze‐casting method is interrogated in directions parallel and perpendicular to the direction of freezing. Deformation is monitored using simultaneous acoustic emission (AE) measurements and video recordings of changes at the sample surface. Significant differences are observed between the stress−strain curves acquired during compression in the two directions. For parallel loading, relatively high peak stress is detected at a strain of about 3%, followed by a plateau, and, at high enough loadings, the Cu foam hardens. The AE results suggest that the decrease in stress from the peak value to the plateau value arises from fractures in the thick lamellae lying nearly parallel to the freezing direction. For perpendicular loading, the energy of the AE events is lower because, in this case, the thinner struts that connect the thick lamellae bend and break more easily. For this case of perpendicular loading, the peak stress is missing from the stress–strain curve. Further deformation yields a gradual increase in the energy of the AE signals, suggesting that the thicker lamellae also break during densification.
A General Ammonium Salt Assisted Synthesis Strategy for Cr3+‐Doped Hexafluorides with Highly Efficient Near Infrared Emissions
Authors: He Fanquan , Song Enhai , Zhou Yayun , Ming Hong , Chen Zitao , Wu Jiachang , Shao Peishan , Yang Xianfeng , Xia Zhiguo , Zhang Qinyuan
Published: June 2021

The discovery of highly efficient broadband near infrared (NIR) emission material is urgent and crucial for constructing NIR lighting sources and emerging applications. Herein, a series of NIR emission hexafluorides A2BMF6:Cr3+ (A = Na, K, Rb, Cs; B = Li, Na, K, Cs; M = Al, Ga, Sc, In) peaking at ≈733–801 nm with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of ≈98–115 nm are synthesized by a general ammonium salt assisted synthesis strategy. Benefiting from the pre‐ammoniation of the trivalent metal sources, the Cr3+ can be more efficiently doped into the A2BMF6 and simultaneously prevent the generation of the competitive phase. Particularly, Na3ScF6:Cr3+ (λem = 774 nm, FWHM ≈ 108 nm) with optimal Cr3+‐doping concentration of 35.96% shows a high internal quantum efficiency of 91.5% and an external quantum efficiency of ≈40.82%. A lighting emitting diode (LED) device with a NIR output power of ≈291.05 mW at 100 mA driven current and high photoelectric conversion efficiency of 20.94% is fabricated. The general synthesis strategy opens up new avenues for the exploration of Cr3+‐doped high efficiency phosphors, and the as‐obtained record NIR output power demonstrates for NIR LED lighting sources applications.
Anomalously Strong Second‐Harmonic Generation in GaAs Nanowires via Crystal‐Structure Engineering
Authors: Zhang Bin , Stehr Jan E. , Chen Ping‐Ping , Wang Xingjun , Ishikawa Fumitaro , Chen Weimin M. , Buyanova Irina A.
Published: June 2021

GaAs‐based semiconductors are highly attractive for diverse nonlinear photonic applications, owing to their non‐centrosymmetric crystal structure and huge nonlinear optical coefficients. Nanostructured semiconductors, for example, nanowires (NWs), offer rich possibilities to tailor nonlinear optical properties and further enhance photonic device performance. In this study, it is demonstrated highly efficient second‐harmonic generation in subwavelength wurtzite (WZ) GaAs NWs, reaching 2.5 × 10−5 W−1, which is about seven times higher than their zincblende counterpart. This enhancement is shown to be predominantly caused by an axial built‐in electric field induced by spontaneous polarization in the WZ lattice via electric field‐induced second‐order nonlinear susceptibility and can be controlled optically and potentially electrically. The findings, therefore, provide an effective strategy for enhancing and manipulating the nonlinear optical response in subwavelength NWs by utilizing lattice engineering.
Liposomes and Extracellular Vesicles as Drug Delivery Systems: A Comparison of Composition, Pharmacokinetics, and Functionalization
Authors: van der Koog Luke , Gandek Timea B. , Nagelkerke Anika
Published: June 2021

Over the past decades, lipid‐based nanoparticle drug delivery systems (DDS) have caught the attention of researchers worldwide, encouraging the field to rapidly develop improved ways for effective drug delivery. One of the most prominent examples is liposomes, which are spherical shaped artificial vesicles composed of lipid bilayers and able to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials. At the same time, biological nanoparticles naturally secreted by cells, called extracellular vesicles (EVs), have emerged as promising more complex biocompatible DDS. In this review paper, the differences and similarities in the composition of both vesicles are evaluated, and critical mediators that affect their pharmacokinetics are elucidate. Different strategies that have been assessed to tweak the pharmacokinetics of both liposomes and EVs are explored, detailing the effects on circulation time, targeting capacity, and cytoplasmic delivery of therapeutic cargo. Finally, whether a hybrid system, consisting of a combination of only the critical constituents of both vesicles, could offer the best of both worlds is discussed. Through these topics, novel leads for further research are provided and, more importantly, gain insight in what the liposome field and the EV field can learn from each other.
Expanding Biomaterial Surface Topographical Design Space through Natural Surface Reproduction
Authors: Vermeulen Steven , Honig Floris , Vasilevich Aliaksei , Roumans Nadia , Romero Manuel , Dede Eren Aysegul , Tuvshindorj Urnaa , Alexander Morgan , Carlier Aurélie , Williams Paul , Uquillas Jorge , de Boer Jan
Published: June 2021

Surface topography is a tool to endow biomaterials with bioactive properties. However, the large number of possible designs makes it challenging to find the optimal surface structure to induce a specific cell response. The TopoChip platform is currently the largest collection of topographies with 2176 in silico designed microtopographies. Still, it is exploring only a small part of the design space due to design algorithm limitations and the surface engineering strategy. Inspired by the diversity of natural surfaces, it is assessed as to what extent the topographical design space and consequently the resulting cellular responses can be expanded using natural surfaces. To this end, 26 plant and insect surfaces are replicated in polystyrene and their surface properties are quantified using white light interferometry. Through machine‐learning algorithms, it is demonstrated that natural surfaces extend the design space of the TopoChip, which coincides with distinct morphological and focal adhesion profiles in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) andPseudomonas aeruginosacolonization. Furthermore, differentiation experiments reveal the strong potential of the holy lotus to improve osteogenesis in MSCs. In the future, the design algorithms will be trained with the results obtained by natural surface imprint experiments to explore the bioactive properties of novel surface topographies.
Topological Valley Photonics: Physics and Device Applications
Authors: Xue Haoran , Yang Yihao , Zhang Baile
Published: June 2021

Topological photonics has emerged as a promising field in photonics that is able to shape the science and technology of light. As a significant degree of freedom, valley is introduced to design and construct photonic topological phases, with encouraging recent progress in applications ranging from on‐chip communications to terahertz lasers. Herein, the development of topological valley photonics is reviewed, from both perspectives of fundamental physics and practical applications. The unique valley‐contrasting physics determines that the bulk topology and the bulk‐boundary correspondence in valley photonic topological phases exhibit different properties from other photonic topological phases. Valley conservation allows not only robust propagation of light through sharp corners, but also 100% out‐coupling of topological states to the surrounding environment. Finally, robust valley transport requires no magnetic materials or the complex construction of photonic pseudospin and, thus, can be integrated on compact photonic platforms for future technologies.
Dynamic carrier transports and low thermal conductivity in n‐type layered InSe thermoelectrics
Authors: Shi Haonan , Wang Dongyang , Xiao Yu , Zhao Li‐Dong
Published: June 2021

Semiconductor InSe with wide bandgap and layered crystal structure is expected to be a promising thermoelectric material, and its excellent plasticity brings great potential applications in flexible and wearable thermoelectric devices. To advance its thermoelectric performance, this work systematically investigates the carrier and phonon transport properties in n‐type InSe. It is found that InSe compound presents an exceptional dynamic carrier transport property due to the amphoteric indium (In+ and In3+), which contributes to favorable temperature‐dependent increasing carrier concentration. More importantly, with S alloying in InSe, the carrier concentration can be further enhanced from ∼3.2 × 1013 cm–3 in InSe to ∼4.8 × 1015 cm–3 in InSe0.97S0.03 at 300 K, because S (χP ∼ 2.58) with larger Pauling electronegativity than Se (χP ∼ 2.55) can induce more In3+ state to increase carrier concentration in matrix. This boosted dynamic carrier transport property benefits an obviously enhanced power factor. Additionally, InSe compound presents intrinsically low thermal conductivity ∼1.6 W m–1 K–1 at 300 K due to low‐symmetry crystal structure and strong anharmonicity. This work indicates that the special dynamic carrier transport property and intrinsically low thermal conductivity in InSe make it as a worth‐expecting thermoelectric material.
DNA‐organic molecular amphiphiles: Synthesis, self‐assembly, and hierarchical aggregates
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong , Dong Yuanchen , Duan Zongze , Jin Dou , Yuan Wei , Liu Dongsheng
Published: June 2021

With the development of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) nanotechnology, various DNA nanostructures and DNA devices have been constructed, which exhibit potential applications in material science and biomedicine. Taking advantage of the programmability and biocompatibility of DNA, novel building block to chemically functionalize DNA with hydrophobic organic molecules has attracted more and more attention. Driving by amphiphilicity, DNA‐organic molecular amphiphiles have been demonstrated to self‐assemble or further induce hierarchically assemblies, providing novel‐specific properties. In this minireview, we summarize the recent progress of DNA organic molecular amphiphiles including their synthesis, self‐assembly behavior in aqueous solution, and the amphiphilic self‐assembly based on hierarchical DNA nano‐structures. We further briefly discuss the perspective of the application of the DNA‐organic molecular amphiphiles.
Iridium‐Catalyzed [4+3] Cyclization of ortho‐Tosylaminophenyl‐Substituted para‐Quinone Methides with Vinylic Oxiranes/Vinyl Aziridines
Authors: Wang Junwei , Zhao Lin , Li Caihong , Zhao Lei , Zhao Kun , Hu Yang , Hu Lihong
Published: June 2021

An Iridium‐catalyzed [4+3] cyclization of ortho‐tosylaminophenyl‐substituted para‐quinone methides with vinylic oxiranes or vinyl aziridines has been successfully developed. In the presence of [Ir(cod)Cl]2 and a suitable base, this unprecedented cascade reaction occurs readily in good yield (up to 97%) and high diastereoselectivity (dr>20 : 1), providing a highly efficient synthetic approach to synthetically valuable seven‐membered heterocyclic frameworks.
Unsymmetrical Pyrazoly‐Pyridinyl‐Triazole Promoted High Active Copper Composites on Mesoporous Materials and Catalytic Applications
Authors: Zhu Guanxin , Zhao Jiaxin , Duan Tianbo , Wang Long , Wang Dawei
Published: June 2021

High active ligand usually plays an important role during catalysis and organic synthesis area. Unsymmetrical tridentate pyrazoly‐pyridinyl‐triazole ligand bridged copper composite supported on the ordered mesoporous material was synthesized from the designed ligand, simple copper salt and commercially available SBA‐15. The resulting copper composite was fully characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray power diffraction. Compared to traditional noble Ir, Ru, Rh and Pd complexes, this economical and stable heterogeneous copper revealed high catalytic selectivity for the reaction of hydronaphthalenones and alcohols with good recyclability. Mechanism explorations disclosed that oxidation, condensation and hydrogenation processes were all involved during this process and this provided an efficient method to the synthesis of 2‐benzyl‐3,4‐dihydronaphthalen‐1(2H)‐onederivatives with good recyclability through the green borrowing hydrogen strategy.
Neuromyelitis optica with rapid respiratory failure: a case report
Authors: Otake Kosuke , Tagami Takashi , Kido Norihiro , Watanabe Akihiro , Sakamaki Masanori , Mochizuki Toru , Matsuda Kiyoshi
Published: June 2021

Background

Neuromyelitis optica is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system and is characterized by severe optic neuritis and transverse myelitis.

Case Presentation

The patient was a 74‐year‐old man with pneumonia. On admission, he exhibited lower limb weakness and rapid respiratory deterioration in the form of tachypnea. Subsequently, he was transported to the Emergency Center of our hospital. High‐signal lesions were observed from the cervical spinal cord to the thoracic spinal cord on T2‐weighted spinal magnetic resonance images. Neuromyelitis optica was suspected, and the patient received steroid pulse therapy and immunoadsorption plasmapheresis. Serum samples obtained upon transfer were positive for anti‐aquaporin‐4 antibodies, which confirmed the diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica. Thereafter, the patient was transferred to a rehabilitation hospital.

Conclusion

Rapid respiratory failure in neuromyelitis optica is rare, and care is needed while treating these cases.