bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of growing degree days, day of the year, and cropping systems on reproductive development of Kernza in Kansas
Authors: Barriball Spencer , Han Abigail , Schlautman Brandon
Published: July 2022

Reproductive growth and development of cool‐season grasses is primarily driven by air temperature and photoperiod. This study was conducted near Salina, KS, to model the effects of growing degree days (GDD), day of the year (DOY), and cropping systems on first‐ and second‐year intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium(Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey] (IWG) in Kernza perennial grain production systems. In 2018 and 2019, GDD and DOY were highly correlated with reproductive growth and development (i.e., mean stage count, head meristem height, and leaf, stem, and head biomass fractions). Row spacing, fertilization, and intercropping with alfalfa (Medicago sativaL.) did not influence IWG reproductive growth and development. Across years, DOY more closely predicted reproductive stages than GDD, indicating a greater response to photoperiod than air temperature. After stem initiation, the fraction of total biomass allocated to leaves decreased, whereas stem and head biomass increased in response to GDD and DOY. At anthesis, stem biomass exceeded leaf and head biomass. Parameterizing GDD and DOY models for management in IWG dual‐purpose, Kernza grain production systems will require additional datasets from many locations and environments.
Why honeybees are poor pollinators of a mass‐flowering plant: Experimental support for the low pollen quality hypothesis
Authors: Diller Carolina , Castañeda‐Zárate Miguel , Johnson Steven D.
Published: July 2022

Premise

Honeybees dominate the flower‐visitor assemblages of many plant species, yet their efficiency in terms of the quality of pollen delivered to stigmas is largely unknown. We investigated why honeybees are poor pollinators of Aloe ferox, a self‐incompatible succulent treelet with large numbers of flowers. Honeybees are very frequent visitors to flowers of this species, yet contribute very little to seed production.

Methods

We assessed pollen loads on honeybees, studied their visitation behavior, selectively excluded birds from plants to determine direct effects of bees on pollen deposition, seed set, and ovule abortion, and used a novel “split‐pollinator” method to test whether honeybees deposit mainly low‐quality self pollen. For the latter, we captured honeybees, and with their existing pollen loads, used them to either pollinate virgin flowers on the plant on which they were caught or to pollinate virgin flowers on different plants.

Results

Honeybees cumulatively deposit as much pollen on stigmas as do birds, but our experiments showed that the pollen deposited by honeybees is mostly low‐quality self pollen that leads to substantial ovule discounting and depressed seed set.

Conclusions

Lack of movement among A. ferox plants during individual honeybee foraging bouts is the most likely explanation for their deposition of low‐quality self pollen on stigmas. The “split‐pollinator” method is a simple and cost‐effective technique to test the quality of pollination.
Identifying optimal dispersant aids for flame retardant additives in tetramethyl cyclobutanediol‐based copolyesters
Authors: Fischer Jacob , Cable Kevin , Dadmun Mark
Published: July 2022

Proper dispersion of an additive throughout a polymer matrix is essential to achieving the desired effects of the additive. Typically, this dispersion is difficult due to poor interactions between the polymer and additive. In the case of melamine cyanurate (MC), an extensive hydrogen bonding network among the principal components results in large domains that prevent it from adequately dispersing within many polymer matrices. Adding a hydrogen bonding capable polymer that competes with intramolecular hydrogen bonding of the MC may lead to a reduction in MC domain size. The disruption of intramolecular MC hydrogen bonding was monitored with attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, while crystalline domain size was determined with scanning electron microscopy. Water‐soluble polymers are identified as an ideal category of dispersing aids for their hydrogen bonding ability and compatibility with melamine cyanurate. Disrupting the hydrogen bonding network on an atomic level with a water‐soluble polymer dispersant led to at least a 50% reduction in measured particle size, as well as in increase in the domain size's homogeneity, as indicated by a 75% reduction in the polydispersity of particle sizes in melt mix samples.
Epigenetic Regulation of Profibrotic Macrophages in Systemic Sclerosis–Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Papazoglou Anna , Huang Mengqi , Bulik Melissa , Lafyatis Annika , Tabib Tracy , Morse Christina , Sembrat John , Rojas Mauricio , Valenzi Eleanor , Lafyatis Robert
Published: July 2022

Objective

Systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease (SSc‐ILD) is the leading cause of death in patients with SSc with unclear pathogenesis and limited treatment options. Evidence strongly supports an important role for profibrotic secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1)–expressing macrophages in SSc‐ILD. This study was undertaken to define the transcriptome and chromatin structural changes of SPP1 SSc‐ILD macrophages in order to better understand their role in promoting fibrosis and to identify transcription factors associated with open chromatin driving their altered phenotype.

Methods

We performed single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐Seq) on 11 explanted SSc‐ILD and healthy control lung samples, as well as single‐cell assay for transposase‐accessible chromatin sequencing on 5 lung samples to define altered chromatin accessibility of SPP1 macrophages. We predicted transcription factors regulating SPP1 macrophages using single‐cell regulatory network inference and clustering (SCENIC) and determined transcription factor binding sites associated with global alterations in SPP1 chromatin accessibility using Signac/Seurat.

Results

We identified distinct macrophage subpopulations using scRNA‐Seq analysis in healthy and SSc‐ILD lungs and assessed gene expression changes during the change of healthy control macrophages into SPP1 macrophages. Analysis of open chromatin validated SCENIC predictions, indicating that microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor, transcription factor EB, activating transcription factor 6, sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 1, basic helix‐loop‐helix family member E40, Kruppel‐like factor 6, ETS variant transcription factor 5, and/or members of the activator protein 1 family of transcription factors regulate SPP1 macrophage differentiation.

Conclusion

Our findings shed light on the underlying changes in chromatin structure and transcription factor regulation of profibrotic SPP1 macrophages in SSc‐ILD. Similar alterations in SPP1 macrophages may underpin fibrosis in other organs involved in SSc and point to novel targets for the treatment of SSc‐ILD, specifically targeting profibrotic macrophages.
Are stereotypes in decline? The portrayal of female anatomy in e‐learning
Authors: Darici Dogus , Schneider Agnes Yüeh‐Dan , Missler Markus , Pfleiderer Bettina
Published: July 2022

Sex and gender bias in anatomy learning materials are considered a “hidden obstacle” to gender equity in medical curricula. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether quantitative sex and gender biases do exist in popular anatomy e‐learning platforms and compare the results with those found in contemporary textbooks and atlases. A systematic content‐analysis was performed on N = 3767 images published from 2008 to 2021 in which sex/gender could be identified by considering technical aspects of illustration and various intersectional categories. E‐learning platforms took into account an appropriate representation of the female body and presented even more females (n = 932/1412; 66%), more frequently from a ventral/anterior (χ2 = 26, P < 0.001) and whole‐body perspective (χ2 = 27, P < 0.001). This was in contrast to German anatomy books, where the results pointed to a significant sex and gender bias. For example, all books assessed underrepresented females (n = 707/2355; 30%) and placed them in stereotypical sex‐specific context (χ2 = 348, P < 0.001), showing them more often from a caudal/inferior (χ2 = 99, P < 0.001) and internal (χ2 = 132, P < 0.001) perspective. Altogether, the visual representation of sex and gender in anatomical curricula is still biased and the stereotypical perceptions of human anatomy seem to be a global issue. However, the increasing use of electronic learning platforms, which gradually replace traditional books is changing the way the male and female body is depicted, which might offer new opportunities for reducing stereotypes in anatomy education.
Recent Advances in the Practical Synthesis of C1 Deuterated Aromatic Aldehydes Enabled by Catalysis and Beyond
Authors: Sharma Deepika , Chatterjee Rana , Dhayalan Vasudevan , Dhanusuraman Ragupathy , Dandela Rambabu
Published: July 2022

C1‐selective deuteration of aromatic aldehydes is of great importance for isotopic labeling and for improving the characteristics of drug molecules. Due to the recent increase in the use of deuterated pharmacological drugs, there is a pressing need for synthetic procedures that are efficient to produce deuterated aromatic aldehyde analouges. Deuterium labeling approaches are typically used as an effective tool for researching pharmaceutical absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). Furthermore, deuterium‐labeled pharmaceuticals are intended to increase therapeutic effectiveness and reduce side effects by extending the half‐life of drug response. In the last few years, several catalytic or non‐catalytic methods have been developed to synthesize deuterated aromatic aldehydes. In this concern, we offer a brief overview of the various synthetic strategies and practical methods for the formyl‐selective deuterium labeling of aromatic aldehydes using different deuterium sources.
EMX1 functions as a tumor inhibitor in spinal cord glioma through transcriptional suppression of WASF2 and inactivation of the Wnt/β‐catenin axis
Authors: Han Ziyin , Mou Zufang , Jing Yulong , Jiang Rong , Sun Tao
Published: July 2022

Background

Gliomas are the most frequent and aggressive cancers in the central nervous system, and spinal cord glioma (SCG) is a rare class of the gliomas. Empty spiracles homobox genes (EMXs) have shown potential tumor suppressing roles in glioma, but the biological function of EMX1 in SCG is unclear.

Methods

The EMX1 expression in clinical tissues of patients with SCG was examined. SCG cells were extracted from the tissues, and altered expression of EMX1 was then introduced to examine the role of EMX1 in cell growth and invasiveness in vitro. Xenograft tumors were induced in nude mice for in vivo validation. The targets of EXM1 were predicted via bioinformatic analysis and validated by luciferase and ChIP‐qPCR assays. Rescue experiments were conducted to validate the involvements of the downstream molecules.

Results

EMX1 was poorly expressed in glioma, which was linked to decreased survival rate of patients according to the bioinformatics prediction. In clinical tissues, EMX1 was poorly expressed in SCG, especially in the high‐grade tissues. EMX1 upregulation significantly suppressed growth and metastasis of SCG cells in vitro and in vivo. EMX1 bound to the promoter of WASP family member 2 (WASF2) to suppress its transcription. Restoration of WASF2 blocked the tumor‐suppressing effect of EMX1. EMX1 suppressed Wnt/β‐catenin signaling activity by inhibiting WASF2. Coronaridine, a Wnt/β‐catenin‐specific antagonist, blocked SCG cell growth and metastasis induced by WASF2.

Conclusion

This study elucidates that EMX1 functions as a tumor inhibitor in SCG by suppressing WASF2‐dependent activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin axis.
Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index is related to the risk of stroke‐associated pneumonia
Authors: Dai Caijun , Yan Dan , Xu Minjie , Huang Qiqi , Ren Wenwei
Published: July 2022

Background

Stroke‐associated pneumonia (SAP) occurs frequently after a stroke. Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) is a valuable indicator of elderly individuals’ nutritional status. This research was designed to obtain insight into the link between GNRI and SAP.

Methods

Patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) were categorized into the SAP and non‐SAP groups. GNRI scores were divided into four layers: Q1, GNRI < 82; Q2, 82≤ GNRI < 92; Q3, 92≤ GNRI ≤98; Q4, GNRI > 98. To identify the independent risk and protective factors of developing SAP, logistic regression analyses were conducted. Additionally, we utilized the restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis to test the effect of GNRI on the SAP risk.

Results

The SAP group showed lower GNRI scores than the non‐SAP group (96.88 ± 9.36 vs. 100.88 ± 8.25, p  <  0.001). According to the logistic regression model, the Q1 and Q2 layers showed a higher risk of SAP than the Q3 layer, while the Q4 layer showed a lower SAP risk (all p < 0.05). Besides, the RCS model found that the risk of SAP dropped dramatically as GNRI scores increased, which got stable when the GNRI score was more significant than 100.

Conclusion

Lower GNRI scores were linked to a higher prevalence of SAP. In clinical practice, GNRI showed predictive value for SAP, which could be helpful in early SAP intervention and therapy.
CINSARC in high‐risk soft tissue sarcoma patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy: Results from the ISG‐STS 1001 study
Authors: Frezza Anna Maria , Stacchiotti Silvia , Chibon Frederic , Coindre Jean‐Michelle , Italiano Antoine , Romagnosa Cleofe , Bagué Silvia , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Braglia Luca , Palmerini Emanuela , Quagliuolo Vittorio , Broto Javier Martin , Lopez Pousa Antonio , Grignani Giovanni , Brunello Antonella , Blay Jean‐Yves , Beveridge Robert Diaz , Lugowska Iwona , Lesluyes Tom , Maestro Roberta , Merlo Franco Domenico , Casali Paolo Giovanni , Gronchi Alessandro
Published: July 2022

Background

The Complexity INdex in SARComas (CINSARC) is a transcriptional signature derived from the expression of 67 genes involved in mitosis control and chromosome integrity. This study aims to assess CINSARC value of in an independent series of high‐risk patients with localized soft tissue sarcoma (STS) treated with preoperative chemotherapy within a prospective, randomized, phase III study (ISG‐STS 1001).

Patients and Methods

Patients with available pre‐treatment samples, treated with 3 cycles of either standard (ST) preoperative or histotype‐tailored (HT) chemotherapy, were scored according to CINSARC (low‐risk, C1; high‐risk, C2). The 10‐year overall survival probability (pr‐OS) according to SARCULATOR was calculated, and patients were classified accordingly (low‐risk, Sarc‐LR, 10‐year pr‐OS>60%; high‐risk, Sarc‐HR, 10‐year pr‐OS<60%). Survival functions were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using log‐rank test.

Results

Eighty‐six patients were included, 30 C1 and 56 C2, 49 Sarc‐LR and 37 Sarc‐HR. A low level of agreement between CINSARC and SARCULATOR was observed (Cohen's Kappa = 0.174). The 5‐year relapse‐free survival in C1 and C2 were 0.57 and 0.55 (p = 0.481); 5‐year metastases‐free survival 0.63 and 0.64 (p = 0.740); 5‐year OS 0.80 and 0.72 (p = 0.460). The 5‐year OS in C1 treated with ST and HT chemotherapy was 0.84 and 0.76 (p = 0.251) respectively; in C2 treated it was 0.72 and 0.70 (p = 0.349). The 5‐year OS in Sarc‐LR treated with S and HT chemotherapy was 0.80 and 0.82 (p = 0.502) respectively; in Sarc‐HR it was 0.70 and 0.61 (p = 0.233).

Conclusions

Our results, although constrained by the small size of the series, suggest that CINSARC has weak prognostic power in high‐risk, localized STS treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Intelligent physical activity versus modified behavioral activation in adolescent and young adult cancer patients with psychological distress: A randomized, controlled pilot trial
Authors: Li Lijun , Wang Lu , Duan Yinglong , Xiao Panpan , Zhou Yi , Luo Xiaofei , Liu Xiangyu , Xie Jianfei , Cheng Andy S. K.
Published: July 2022

Background

More than 80% of adolescent and young adult cancer patients (AYACPs) experienced psychological distress. Physical activity and behavioral activation are effective to relieve the psychological distress in AYACPs.

Methods

Participants aged 15–39 years diagnosed with malignant tumors were included. A total of 143 eligible AYACPs were randomly assigned to three groups. The treatment‐as‐usual group (N = 48) received routine care, the physical activity group (N = 47) received 8 weeks of physical activity program based on intelligent wearable devices, and the behavioral activation group (N = 48) received an internet‐based modified behavioral activation program for 8 weeks. Objective outcome measures included salivary cortisol and testosterone.

Results

Linear mixed‐model analyses showed significant differences between treatment‐as‐usual, physical activity and behavioral activation in salivary cortisol, as well as total scores on depression and anxiety, physical activity, self‐efficacy, and social support. Significantly stronger effect sizes for physical activity group compared with behavioral activation group were found on physical activity (d = 0.53) (1 week after intervention), moderate activity (d = 0.61), and walking activity (d = 0.57) (3‐month follow‐up).

Conclusions

Intelligent, wearable, device‐based physical activity program is more effective in alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing saliva cortisol, and improving physical activity in AYACPs than internet‐based modified behavioral activation program. Intelligent, wearable, device‐based physical activity program can reduce the time cost of AYACPs to ensure that the intervention is carried out.
Delayed, recurrent bile leak from isolated right posterior sectoral duct injury after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: An unusual presentation
Authors: Sharma Amit , Ruch Brianna , Alwatari Yahya , Lele Sonia , Bouhaidar Doumit S.
Published: July 2022

Bile leak after cholecystectomy is associated with significant comorbidity. Biliary duct variant anatomy can complicate identification and management. We report a very rare presentation of recurrent delayed bile leaks years after laparoscopic cholecystectomy secondary to missed right posterior sectoral bile duct injury. Surgical intervention was required after the failure of conservative management.
Acute arthritis revealing Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Authors: Slouma Maroua , Mehmli Takwa , Ben Dhia Siwar , Metoui Leila , Dhahri Rim , Gharsallah Imen , Louzir Bassem
Published: July 2022

Rheumatic manifestations can reveal hypothyroidism, such as arthritis and nonspecific musculoskeletal symptoms. We report herein the case of an acute polyarthritis revealing Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). Hormone replacement therapy leads to the resolution of arthritis related to HT, suggesting the role of thyroid hormone in the pathogenesis of arthritis.
Report of two cases of myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcomas with preceding hematolymphoid neoplasms: Is there any association?
Authors: Aminparast Zahra , Sadeghi Masoud , Ramezani Mazaher
Published: July 2022

Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) is an uncommon soft tissue sarcoma. We present two cases of MIFS: A known case of Hodgkin‘s lymphoma presented with hand mass; a recurrence of MIFS with a history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Cardiac Metastases from Choroidal Melanoma
Authors: Madani Ammar , Omar Nabil E. , Mustafa Ghulam , Petkar Mahir , Mohamed Samah , Al kuwari Maryam , Karim Sabir Abdul , Mohsen Reyad
Published: July 2022

In patients with uveal melanoma, cardiac metastases can present without any symptoms. It is becoming more common than previously thought and highlights the importance of routine surveillance after definitive treatment.
Yolk‐Shell Spindle‐Shaped FeSe2@N‐Doped Carbon Decorated on rGO with High‐Rate Capability and Cycling Stability in a Wide Temperature Range for Sodium Ion Batteries**
Authors: Zhang Chenyan , Fan Shaoxiong , Zhang Xuanning , Xu Jie , Yang Shuya , Han Zhiyuan , Li Qiang , Cao Derang , Xu Jie , Wang Xia , Li Shandong
Published: July 2022

Iron selenides (FeSe2) have been utilized in sodium ion batteries due to abundant reserves of elements and ideal specific capacities. However, they suffer from volume expansion and low electrical conductivity, limiting their application. In this study, multiple strategies including fabrication of hollow FeSe2 nanospindles and N‐doping carbon (NC) coating, accompanied by the introduction of highly conductive and flexible reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were adopted to construct a yolk‐shell spindle‐shaped FeSe2@NC with rGO composite, abbreviated as YS‐FeSe2@NC@rGO, in which the hollow structure can provide more space for volume expansion to guarantee the structural stability and the coating of double‐layer carbon is favorable to accelerate reaction kinetics, stabilizing the solid electrolyte interfaces (SEI) film. Accordingly, the YS‐FeSe2@NC@rGO electrode for sodium ion battery shows capacity of 639.1 mAh g−1 (565.6 mAh cm−2) after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. Even at a high current density of 10 A g−1, the specific capacity after 880 cycles is 320.7 mAh g−1 (283.9 mAh cm−2). Moreover, the YS‐FeSe2@NC@rGO composite holds high Na+ diffusion coefficients (DNa+, 1.17×10−12–2.617×10−11 cm−2 s−1). The YS‐FeSe2@NC@rGO//NVP/C full cell also maintains a discharge capacity of 252.6 mAh g−1 after 135 cycles. Furthermore, the YS‐FeSe2@NC@rGO composite anode is capable of retaining high‐rate capability and capacity retention in a wide temperature range. Therefore, the excellent sodium storage performance makes the YS‐FeSe2@NC@rGO composite a desirable anode material for sodium ion batteries.
Ionic Conductivity Enhancement Achieved by Binder in Electrodes and Its Influence in Supercapacitor
Authors: Jia Yuan , Yang Dan , Zhang Lei , Shi Ying , Xie Jianjun , Lei Fang , Fan Lingcong
Published: July 2022

Ionic conductivity is a critical factor affecting the electrochemical performance of double layer capacitor. Therefore, additional ion transport channels are introduced by using Nafion as binder in electrode. In this study, carbonized maple as active substance was mixed with binder of Nafion or PVDF to form electrodes. The electrode structures were obtained by scanning electron microscopy and N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms with the aim of clarifying negligible differences in the microstructure and binding strength of electrodes with different binders. Furthermore, the two electrodes with different binders tested in KOH exhibited similar electrochemical properties. However, in H2SO4 electrolyte, the electrode containing Nafion showed a much higher specific capacitance than that of electrode using PVDF binder. To directly prove the high ionic conductivity of Nafion electrode, concentration battery was constructed using the two electrodes as separators to investigate their liquid junction potential. This study focused on the ionic conduction in electrodes, which could provide suggestions for electrode design, especially for the utilization of commercial supercapacitors.
Synthesis and Application of a Clickable Epoxomicin‐Based Probe for Proteasome Activity Analysis
Authors: Salazar‐Chaparro Andres F. , Halder Saayak , Trader Darci J.
Published: July 2022

The proteasome is a multisubunit protein complex responsible for the degradation of proteins, making it essential in myriad cellular processes. Several reversible and irreversible peptide substrates inspired by known proteasome inhibitors have been developed to visualize it and monitor its activity; however, they have limited commercial availability or possess fluorophores that overlap with other known chemical probes, limiting their simultaneous use. The protocols presented here describe the synthesis of a clickable epoxomicin‐based probe followed by the copper‐catalyzed installment of an azide‐containing fluorophore, and the application of the synthesized peptide in proteasome activity assays by SDS‐PAGE and flow cytometry. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Solid‐phase synthesis of clickable peptide fragment (2)

Basic Protocol 2: In‐solution coupling of epoxy‐ketone moiety to fragment (2)

Basic Protocol 3: Copper‐catalyzed click reaction of (3) with fluorophore of choice

Basic Protocol 4: Monitoring proteasome activity by SDS‐PAGE in HEK‐293T cells

Alternate Protocol: Monitoring proteasome activity by flow cytometry in HEK‐293T cells
An enhanced Gray Wolf Optimization for cluster head selection in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Muniraj Ashokkumar , Jeyaswamidoss Jeba Emilyn
Published: July 2022

The energy efficiency sustenance in wireless sensor networks completely depends on the process of clustering to prolong network lifetime. The success of this clustering process completely depends on the cluster head (CH) selection process as potential CH selection prevents frequent clustering and aids in maintaining maximized energy in the network. In this paper, an improved Game Theory‐Gray Wolf Optimization algorithm (GAGWO)‐based efficient CH selection strategy is improved for maintaining the energy in the network through the construction of equal size clusters. This GWOA mimicked the hunting and attacking characteristics of gray wolves and facilitated better CH selection, which completely prevented worst sensor nodes from being selected as CH. It is proposed for establishing a better trade‐off between the local and global search for the objective of preventing re‐clustering that unnecessarily drains network energy. The simulation results of the proposed GAGWO confirmed better performance in terms of network lifetime, energy stability, mean throughput, and packet delivery ratio, on an average by 23.18%, 21.86%, 19.84%, and 20.98%, compared to the baseline CH approaches used for investigation.
Phylogenomics of trophically diverse cichlids disentangles processes driving adaptive radiation and repeated trophic transitions
Authors: Singh Pooja , Irisarri Iker , Torres‐Dowdall Julián , Thallinger Gerhard G. , Svardal Hannes , Lemmon Emily Moriarty , Lemmon Alan R. , Koblmüller Stephan , Meyer Axel , Sturmbauer Christian
Published: July 2022

Cichlid fishes of the tribe Tropheini are a striking case of adaptive radiation, exemplifying multiple trophic transitions between herbivory and carnivory occurring in sympatry with other established cichlid lineages. Tropheini evolved highly specialized eco‐morphologies to exploit similar trophic niches in different ways repeatedly and rapidly. To better understand the evolutionary history and trophic adaptations of this lineage, we generated a dataset of 532 targeted loci from 21 out of the 22 described Tropheini species. We resolved the Tropheini into seven monophyletic genera and discovered one to be polyphyletic. The polyphyletic genus,Petrochromis, represents three convergent origins of the algae grazing trophic specialization. This repeated evolution of grazing may have been facilitated by adaptive introgression as we found evidence for gene flow among algae grazing genera. We also found evidence of gene flow among algae browsing genera, but gene flow was restricted between herbivorous and carnivorous genera. Furthermore, we observed no evidence supporting a hybrid origin of this radiation. Our molecular evolutionary analyses suggest that opsin genes likely evolved in response to selection pressures associated with trophic ecology in the Tropheini. We found surprisingly little evidence of positive selection in coding regions of jaw‐shaping genes in this trophically diverse lineage. This suggests low degrees of freedom for further change in these genes, and possibly a larger role for regulatory variation in driving jaw adaptations. Our study emphasizes Tropheini cichlids as an important model for studying the evolution of trophic specialization and its role in speciation.
Social innovation in a typical social‐ecological system in China: Identifying linkages between the dependence of key stakeholders on ecosystem services and the level of their multi‐dimensional human well‐being
Authors: Xu Jianying , Nijnik Maria , Cao Mengqi , Zhang Xiaojing
Published: July 2022

Linkages between ecosystem services and human well‐being are complex. These linkages are of particular significance to disadvantaged communities, commonly residing in marginalized rural areas, and having difficulties regarding biophysical factors, infrastructure, housing, and aging populations. In this paper, we focused on such a typical area in Southwestern China, where we examined the linkages between ecosystem services and human well‐being, underpinning our investigation by the social innovation theory and a social‐ecological system framework. Going beyond what has been done by other scientists, we considered the heterogeneity of beneficiaries and assessed human well‐being as it was valued by people, on the ground. We did it with full realization that stakeholder evaluation is becoming a novel means and an important instrument for targeting sustainability. The identification of key stakeholders in the Wolong Nature Reserve was the first step in our research. We categorized and classified the stakeholders into groups based on their dependence on ecosystem services and their socio‐economic characteristics. Significant differentiations among human well‐being were found, and stakeholders with heterogeneous socio‐economic characteristics had a varied dependence on specific ecosystem services. Further, the regression analysis performed revealed key factors that would mediate the level of human well‐being at the local level. The factors identified included the dependence of people on regulating and cultural services, their level of education, knowledge and occupation. Our results have contributed to discerning key stakeholders for ecosystem management purposes and determining the driving factors mediating the linkages between ecosystem services and human well‐being. Thus, in addition to contribution to science, the results have potential practical implications for steering a more sustainable governance of nature in areas that are similar to this typical socio‐ecological system in China.
Design of experiment techniques for the optimization of chromatographic analysis conditions: A review
Authors: Peng Le , Gao Xin , Wang Long , Zhu Aiqiang , Cai Xiang , Li Pian , Li Wenlong
Published: July 2022

Design of experiment (DoE) techniques have been widely used in the field of chromatographic parameters optimization as a valuable tool. A systematic literature review of the available DoE techniques applied to the development of a chromatographic analysis method is presented in this paper. First, the most common available designs and the implementation steps of DoE are comprehensively introduced. Then the studies in recent 10 years for the application of DoE techniques in various chromatographic techniques are discussed, such as capillary electrophoresis, liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, thin‐layer chromatography, and high‐speed countercurrent chromatography. Current problems and future outlooks are finally given to provide a certain inspiration of research in the application of DoE techniques to the different chromatographic techniques field. This review contributes to a better understanding of the DoE techniques for the efficient optimization of chromatographic analysis conditions, especially for the analysis of complex systems, such as multicomponent drugs and natural products.
Digital Video Acquisition and Optimization Techniques for Effective Animal Tracking in Behavioral Ecotoxicology
Authors: Henry Jason , Bai Yutao , Wlodkowic Donald
Published: July 2022

Behavioral phenotypic analysis is an emerging and increasingly important toolbox in aquatic ecotoxicology. In this regard digital video recording has recently become a standard in obtaining behavioral data. Subsequent analysis requires applications of specialized software for detecting and reconstructing animal locomotory trajectories as well as extracting quantitative biometric endpoints associated with specific behavioral traits. Despite some profound advantages for behavioral ecotoxicology, there is a notable lack of standardization of procedures and guidelines that would aid in consistently acquiring high-quality digital videos. The latter are fundamental for using animal tracking software successfully and to avoid issues such as identification switching, incorrect interpolation, and low tracking visibility. Achieving an optimized tracking not only saves user time and effort to analyze the results but also provides high-fidelity data with minimal artifacts. In the present study we, for the first time, provide an easily accessible guide on how to set up and optimize digital video acquisition while minimizing pitfalls in obtaining the highest-quality data for subsequent animal tracking. We also discuss straightforward digital video postprocessing techniques that can be employed to further enhance tracking consistency or improve the videos that were acquired in otherwise suboptimal settings. The present study provides an essential guidebook for any aquatic ecotoxicology studies that utilize digital video acquisition systems for evaluation of behavioral endpoints. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2342–2352. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
MXene based nanocomposite films
Authors: Li Lei , Cheng Qunfeng
Published: July 2022

Since the first report in 2011, two‐dimensional transition metal carbide/nitride MXenes have aroused widespread attention owing to the particular structure and physiochemical properties. In the last few years, MXene‐based nanocomposite films have been widely investigated, showing promising applications in many fields. However, poor mechanical properties and thermal/electrical conductivities of MXene‐based nanocomposite films still limited their practical applications. Herein, we summarize the fabrication approach of MXene‐based nanocomposite films and discuss the mechanical properties and other applications, including electromagnetic interference shielding, thermal conductivity, and supercapacitors. Then, several vital factors for fabricating high performance MXene based nanocomposite films have been refined. To further fabricate high performance MXene‐based nanocomposite films, some effective sequential bridging strategies are also discussed. Lastly, a conclusion of the challenges and opportunities of MXene‐based nanocomposite films is provided to facilitate their development and application for various purposes in the future of scientific research.
Ameliorative effects of supranutritional selenium on TLR‐4‐NF‐kB‐TNF‐α‐mediated hepatic oxidative injury and inflammation in goats fed high concentrate diet
Authors: Shah Tahmina , Malhi Moolchand , Kachiwal Allah Bux , Bhutto Bachal , Shah Qurban Ali , Lei Yan , Soomro Saeed Ahmed , Soomro Jamila , Kalhoro Nazeer Hussain , Gui Hongbing
Published: July 2022

We examined whether surplus dietary selenium (Se) supply could alleviate high concentrate (HC) diet‐induced hepatic oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation. Eighteen young goats were distributed into three groups; were fed low (LC, concentrate: forage; 35: 65), high concentrate (HC, 65: 35), or Se‐supplemented HC (HCSe, 65: 35 + 0.5 mg Se kg−1 diet) diets for 10 weeks. Short chain fatty acids, OS markers and immunoinflammatory genes expressions were assessed through gas chromatograph, kits, and RT‐qPCR, respectively. Compared with LC, HC diet increased (p < .05) colonic and serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels and induced hepatic oxidative injury by increasing (p < .05) malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreasing (p < .05) activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. HC diet altered hepatic mRNA expressions of toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR‐4), cluster of differentiation‐14 (CD‐14), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), TNF receptor‐associated factor‐6 (TRAF‐6), nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐10, IL‐13, LPS‐binding protein (LBP), serum amyloid A (SAA), α‐acid glycoprotein (AGP), and albumin (ALB). Conversely, extra‐Se supply lowered LPS and attenuated antioxidant status and inflammation in liver. In conclusion, HC diet induced oxidative lesions and TLR‐4 pathway‐mediated inflammation, whereas supranutritional Se alleviated oxidative and inflammatory lesions through TLR‐4 pathway regulation in goat liver.
Unilateral vulval edema as the presenting cutaneous manifestation of Crohn's disease
Authors: Ling Hua Yen , Lim Shi Yu Derek , Lim Hua‐Liang Joel
Published: July 2022

Synopsis

Vulval edema is an archetypal manifestation of metastatic Crohn's disease, which may predate clinical presentation of gastrointestinal Crohn's disease.
CAR T cell therapy in advanced B‐ALL with heavy disease burden
Authors: Tang Kaiting , Ling Zhuojun , Pan Jing , Huang He
Published: July 2022

In recent years, CD19‐directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has exhibited significant potency for treating pediatric relapsed or refractory B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (r/r B‐ALL). Nonetheless, many patients with disease progressing rapidly may not benefit from this therapy. Actually, 10%–20% of these patients with rapidly progressive disease failed in CAR T cell manufacturing. Besides, some patients died of disease progression earlier than CAR T cells expanding in vivo. How to deal with the fast progressive disease and ensure successful manufacturing and expansion of CAR T cells are still very important questions for the clinicians. In this brief report, some clinical experience to handle these tough situations in our center will be introduced. Bridging chemotherapy and post‐CAR antitumor managements help to control progressive blasts and contribute to the success of CAR T cell therapy. The optimal timing of apheresis and adjusted protocol for manufacturing CAR T cells are critical for advanced patients. Optimal treatment options and how they should be applied to advanced B‐ALL with heavy disease burden still need to be discussed.
Fused thiophene based materials for organic thin‐film transistors
Authors: Velusamy Arulmozhi , Afraj Shakil N. , Yau Shuehlin , Liu Cheng‐Liang , Ezhumalai Yamuna , Kumaresan Prabakaran , Chen Ming‐Chou
Published: July 2022

This review highlights our recent efforts in the development of organic semiconductors based on anthradithiophene (ADT), dithienothiophene (DTT), tetrathienoacene (TTA), benzothienodithiophene (BTDT), benzothienothiophene (BTT), chalcogen‐planarized BT, and some quinoidal oligothiophenes for the application of organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs). We visualized various strategies that have been employed in molecular architecture to improve the stability as well as solubility, and the energy levels are tuned for efficient hole/electron injection, thus leading to high‐performance solution processable OTFTs. The obtained mobility was correlated with the molecular stacking pattern and film morphology/microstructure of the semiconductors. Overall, this review presents information that aids reliable OTFT data analysis and provide guidelines for the development of next‐generation organic semiconductors. At present, the p‐type and n‐type OTFTs developed by our group are able to reach the mobilities of over 4.01 and 2.5 cm2V−1 s−1, respectively. In addition, we also demonstrated the utilization of these conjugated moieties in development of high performance dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and hole transporting materials (HTM) as well as non‐fullerene acceptor (NFA) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
Percentile curves of normal echocardiographic measurements values for left heart structures in 1570 Han Chinese preterm and term infants
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Fu Jihe , Wu Lijun , Liu Xing‐Yuan , Zhang Yuqi
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study was designed to evaluate echocardiographic measurements in Han Chinese preterm and term infants and to build percentile curves of normal echocardiographic measurements values related to the weight.

Method

From December 2014 to December 2021, a total of 797 male infants and 773 female infants born in * were included in the study. The echocardiographic measurements of each subject were as follows: left ventricular internal diameter at end‐diastole (LVIDd), left ventricular internal diameter at end‐systole (LVIDs), left ventricular posterior wall thickness at end‐diastole (LVPWd), left ventricular posterior wall thickness at end‐systole (LVPWs), interventricular septal thickness at end‐diastole (IVSd), interventricular septal thickness at end‐systole (IVSs), ascending aorta diameter (AO), left atrium (LA) dimension, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS) and left ventricular mass (LVM). The correlations between echocardiography measurements and birth weight (BW), length (L), gestational age (GA), and body surface area (BSA) were analyzed.

Results

There was a good correlation between the echocardiographic measurements and birth weight and percentile curves of the echocardiographic measurements were established according to different birth weight. The echocardiographic measurements were not affected by gender. However, LVEF and LVFS did not change with BW or gender.

Conclusions

The percentile curves of normal values make it possible to classify echocardiographic measurements for left heart structures and function as normal or abnormal and is helpful for the diagnosis of neonatal heart disease in preterm and term infants.
Knowledge transfer for R&D‐sales cross‐functional cooperation: Unpacking the intersections between institutional expectations and human resource practices
Authors: Lindblom Jan , Martins Jorge Tiago
Published: July 2022

This article addresses the challenges of R&D–sales cross‐functional cooperation by exploring how HR practices encourage knowledge transfer, minimising peer‐to‐peer friction and maximising the effectiveness of the exchanges for performance innovation. We combined document analysis of professional HR management magazines and semi‐structured interviews at a Finnish digital media firm, in order to identify manifestations of institutional work expressing and legitimising knowledge transfer‐focused HR management practices, and how employees make sense of them. Our findings identify manifestations of institutional work expressing, sustaining and legitimising knowledge transfer and relate these manifestations to distinct dimensions of human resource management practices. We integrate prevailing institutional expectations and employees' attributions of knowledge transfer‐focused human resource practices, which highlights the connections between human resource management and the knowledge management field, as well as the dichotomy between the more humanist knowledge transfer strategies and those that are information technology‐oriented. Our original integration of institutional expectations and a case analysis of employees' attributions of knowledge transfer‐focused human resource practices contribute directly to management practice dealing with the effects of organising strategically for knowledge‐based innovation outcomes. This has implications in terms of the development of interpersonal skills, the engagement and development of cross‐team work; the design of participative mechanisms; and the implementation of knowledge transfer principles, practices and systems.
Filtration of Paint‐Contaminated Water by Electrospun Membranes
Authors: Müller Ann‐Kathrin , Xu Zhi‐Kang , Greiner Andreas
Published: July 2022

Micro‐ and nanosized plastics as persistent anthropogenic pollutants have attracted more and more attention in recent years. A source of nanoparticles is, for example, water‐borne dispersion paint, which consists of a variety of different materials with potential adverse effects on living systems. Therefore, a rising challenge becomes apparent to investigate remediation strategies for environmental media. This problem is addressed by utilizing electrospun membranes for filtration applications because of their outstanding properties, such as their high surface‐to‐volume ratio and ease of functionalization. The electrospun membranes are able to successfully filter different paint components, such as titanium dioxide and polyacrylate nanoparticles, as well as dispersed polymers and calcium carbonate microparticles. Besides the known size‐exclusion mechanism, the membranes featured extraordinary properties, such as effective separation of components smaller than the pore size of the electrospun membranes. This property occurs due to the fiber surface functionalization and enables not only filtration of nanosized or dissolved mater at high filtration efficiencies up to 100% but also at a very low operating pressure. This combination of filter material properties cannot be achieved by conventional nanofiltration membranes and thus, demonstrates the high potential of electrospun membranes for the application in filtration for future environmental pollutants.
Molecular and expressional characterization of tumor heterogeneity in pulmonary carcinosarcoma
Authors: Ohtaki Yoichi , Kawabata‐Iwakawa Reika , Nobusawa Sumihito , Goto Yusuke , Shimizu Kimihiro , Yajima Toshiki , Nakazawa Seshiru , Kawatani Natsuko , Yoshida Yuka , Sano Takaaki , Shirabe Ken
Published: July 2022

The genetic concordance and heterogeneity of the two components of pulmonary carcinosarcoma (PCS), carcinoma, and sarcoma, have not been fully elucidated because of its rare occurrence. We performed targeted sequencing of the carcinoma and sarcoma components of four PCSs to identify genetic similarities and differences. Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue samples were macroscopically or microscopically dissected. DNA was extracted from each component, and genetic alterations were analyzed separately. Moreover, we performed RNA‐seq analysis on both components of one PCS to compare differences in gene expression profiles. The carcinoma part consisted of adenocarcinoma in two cases, squamous cell carcinoma in one, and adenosquamous carcinoma in the last. TP53 mutation was observed in three samples from the trunk, although it was detected only in the sarcoma part in one case. No specific driver gene mutation was observed; however, KRAS mutations were observed in one case in the trunk. RNA‐seq analysis revealed that the rhabdomyosarcoma component expressed various genes related to muscle development, whereas the carcinoma component did not; and that gene expression overall was completely different between the two components. Our study revealed that the two different components of PCS shared common gene mutations in most cases. Although gene expression was different among components, if driver genes such as KRAS were detected in PCS, molecular targeted therapy could be beneficial even when the tumor contains a sarcoma component.