bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersion characteristics of oral microbial communities in a built environment
Authors: Yanagi U , Kato Shinsuke , Nagano Hideaki , Ito Kazuhide , Yamanaka Toshio , Momoi Yoshihisa , Kobayashi Hikaru , Hayama Hirofumi
Published: February 2022

Advances in next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technologies since 2005 have revolutionized biological science. One particular application of NGS technologies is to elucidate microbiomes in built environments. We are currently conducting a series of studies on the elucidation and control of mass infection mechanisms based on dynamic measurement of environment microbiomes. The objective of this study is to clarify the dispersion characteristics of oral bacteria in the built environment. Bacterial communities from occupants’ hands and oral cavities, doorknobs, desk and keyboard surfaces, and air in laboratories were investigated in seven Japanese universities. The median relative abundances of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Fusobacteria were 41%, 31%, 12%, 7%, and 3%, respectively. Moreover, the main genera detected were Streptococcus (27.6%), Haemophilus (7.0%), Staphylococcus (5.6%), Neisseria (5.6%), Corynebacterium (4.7%), Rothia (3.2%), Prevotella (3.0%), Fusobacterium (2.6%), Veillonella (1.7%), Leptotrichia (1.7%), Enhydrobacter (1.7%), Lactobacillus (1.3%), Acinetobacter (1.3%), and Actinomyces (1.1%). The oral bacteria Actinomyces, Corynebacterium, Fusobacterium, Haemophilus, Leptotrichia, Neisseria, Prevotella, Rothia, and Streptococcus were observed in indoor air and on surfaces as well as in oral cavities. Furthermore, Prevotella melaninogenica and Rothia mucilaginosa were observed in all samples, including those from hands and oral cavities, doorknobs, desk and PC keyboard surfaces, and air in laboratories, in all seven universities.
Commissioning a multileaf collimator virtual cone for the stereotactic radiosurgery of trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Brown Thomas A. D. , Ayers Rex G. , Popple Richard A.
Published: February 2022

A multileaf collimator (MLC), virtual‐cone treatment technique has been commissioned for trigeminal neuralgia (TGN) at Tri‐Cities Cancer Center (TCCC). This novel technique was initially developed at the University of Alabama in Birmingham (UAB); it is designed to produce a spherical dose profile similar to a fixed, 5‐mm conical collimator distribution. Treatment is delivered with a 10‐MV flattening‐filter‐free (FFF) beam using a high‐definition MLC on a Varian Edge linear accelerator. Absolute dose output and profile measurements were performed in a 20 × 20 × 14 cm3 solid‐water phantom using an Exradin W2 scintillation detector and Gafchromic EBT3 film. Dose output constancy for the virtual cone was evaluated over 6 months using an Exradin A11 parallel plate chamber. The photo‐neutron dose generated by these treatments was assessed at distances of 50 and 100 cm from isocenter using a Ludlum Model 30–7 Series Neutron Meter. TGN treatments at TCCC have been previously delivered at 6‐MV FFF using a 5‐mm stereotactic cone. To assess the dosimetric impact of using a virtual cone, eight patients previously treated for TGN with a 5‐mm cone were re‐planned using a virtual cone. Seven patients have now been treated for TGN using a virtual cone at TCCC. Patient‐specific quality assurance was performed for each patient using Gafchromic EBT‐XD film inside a Standard Imaging Stereotactic Dose Verification Phantom. The commissioning results demonstrate that the virtual‐cone dosimetry, first described at UAB, is reproducible on a second Edge linear accelerator at an independent clinical site. The virtual cone is a credible alternative to a physical, stereotactic cone for the treatment of TGN at TCCC.
Hybridizing Triboelectric and Thermomagnetic Effects: A Novel Low‐Grade Thermal Energy Harvesting Technology
Authors: Rodrigues Cátia , Pires Ana , Gonçalves Isabel , Silva Daniel , OIiveira Joana , Pereira André , Ventura João
Published: February 2022

Developing new energy generation technologies able to effectively convert low‐grade thermal energy into electricity is an urgent necessity to tackle the continuous surge in energy demand and mitigate climate change. Here, a hybrid device that couples triboelectric and thermomagnetic effects to generate electrical power in the presence of small temperature gradients near room temperature is demonstrated. The thermomagnetic effect allows to induce the periodic and sustained motion of a second‐order ferromagnetic material in temperature gradients below 30 °C. This mechanical motion is then converted into electrical energy using a low‐cost triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). The applicability of this concept is demonstrated in a broad range of operating temperatures in both the cold (15 to 37 °C) and hot (60 to 90 °C) sides. It is further shown that the electrical power generated by the hybrid TENG is more than 35× higher than that obtained by a conventional thermomagnetic generator driven by magnetic induction. The obtained results show that this implementation is a feasible thermal energy conversion technology, further expanding the applicability of triboelectricity into the realm of room temperature thermal harvesting.
Biomass‐Derived Nanoporous Graphene Memory Cell
Authors: Sattari‐Esfahlan Seyed Mehdi , Bonnassieux Yvan , Kymissis Ioannis , Kim Chang‐Hyun
Published: February 2022

Nanoporous graphene (NPG) exhibits an apparent semiconductivity to solve the zero‐gap problem of graphene and also offers multifunctionalities that are directly associated with its structural and chemical nature. However, reliable, low‐cost, and large‐scale production of NPG is a major challenge for its practical applications. Here, a high‐performance resistive‐switching memory cell based on biomass‐derived NPG materials is demonstrated for the first time. A new processing method is suggested to create 3D NPG starting from Saccharum officinarum. The fabricated Au/NPG/Au two‐terminal devices achieve an excellent electrical performance characterized by an operating voltage below 5 V and an ON/OFF current ratio of over 106. A range of materials and device characterizations reveal the oxygen ion migration and charge‐injection modulation as a key mechanism behind the observed memory behaviors. This unconventional approach to high‐performance memory devices is an important step toward sustainable electronics and intelligent technologies.
Tuning the Photon Sensitization Mechanism in Metal‐Halide‐Perovskite‐Based Nanocomposite Films Toward Highly Efficient and Stable X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Wei Jiajun , Tao Liting , Li Liqi , Yan Minxing , Wang Chenhao , Sun Wei , Yang Deren , Fang Yanjun
Published: February 2022

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have emerged as promising X‐ray detection materials. However, most MHP‐based X‐ray detectors are incompatible for large‐area preparation and integration, and suffer from the serious ion migration issue. This work demonstrates a “perovskite‐in‐a‐host” nanocomposite structure for X‐ray detection, by embedding the perovskite nanocrystal (PNC) sensitizers in the organic interpenetrating charge transport channels to work as the X‐ray attenuation layer. Intriguingly, the photon sensitization mechanism can be readily tuned from indirect‐ to direct‐type X‐ray conversion by decreasing the ligand density on the PNC surface, which significantly increases the sensitivity to 5 696 µC Gyair–1 cm–2. Besides, the ion migration gets suppressed due to the ion blocking effect of the surrounding organic phase. Therefore, an ultra‐small dark current relative drift of 3.57 × 10–9 cm s–1 V–1 is achieved even under an extremely large electric field up to 5 100 V cm–1, ensuring a low detection limit down to 72 nGyair s–1. The superior sensitivity and biasing stability enable the high performance X‐ray imaging capability of the devices, which exhibit great potential in scaling up and integration for the flat panel imaging.
Engineering Core Size of InP Quantum Dot with Incipient ZnS for Blue Emission
Authors: Suh Yo‐Han , Lee Sanghyo , Jung Sung‐Min , Bang Sang Yun , Yang Jiajie , Fan Xiang‐Bing , Zhan Shijie , Samarakoon Chatura , Jo Jeong‐Wan , Kim Yoonwoo , Choi Hyung Woo , Occhipinti Luigi G. , Lee Tae Hoon , Shin Dong‐Wook , Kim Jong Min
Published: February 2022

Blue indium phosphide quantum dot (InP QD) is an emerging colloidal semiconductor nanocrystal, considered as a promising next‐generation photoactive material for light‐emitting purposes. Despite the tremendous progress in blue InP QDs, the synthetic method for tailoring InP core size to realize the blue‐emissive QDs still lags behind. This work suggests a synthetic method for blue‐emitting InP QDs by engineering the core size with an incipient ZnS (i‐ZnS) shell. The formation of i‐ZnS complexes, before the tris(trimethylsilyl)phosphine injection (e.g., before core growth process), restrains the overgrowth of InP nuclei by rapidly forming a ZnS shell on its surface, thereby resulting in further dwarfed InP cores. With additional ZnS shell coating, the blue QDs exhibit a photoluminescence quantum yield of ≈52% at 483 nm. The origin of bandgap diminution with the increase of shell thickness, or with the utilization of ZnSe shell is unraveled via the first‐principles density functional theory simulations. Simulational evidence on InP‐core densification with the shell coating, along with accompanying changes in chemical and structural properties, is presented. The blue‐emitting InP QD device shows a maximum luminance of 1162 cd m−2 and external quantum efficiency of 1.4%.
Gain Bandwidth Engineering in Polymer Blends for Full‐Color‐Tunable Lasers
Authors: Jiang Yi , Wei Qi , Li King Fai , Jin Mingke , Tam Hoi Lam , Li Guixin , Xing Gui‐Chuan , Cheah Kok Wai
Published: February 2022

Developing semiconductors with broad gain bandwidth has always been at the forefront of laser technologies. The variation in feedback resonators can provide a useful tool for producing a relatively wide range of discrete lasing wavelengths. However, the lasing wavelength range is limited by the fundamental gain bandwidth of the semiconductor itself. Gain bandwidth engineering for full‐color range lasing though remains a daunting challenge. Considering the abundant energy levels of organic semiconductors, the authors stride over the barrier of the gain bandwidth limitation and demonstrate the dynamically tunable amplification/lasing across the entire emission range by leveraging on Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)‐assisted guest–host blends. The unprecedented tunability in amplification and lasing is governed by energy transfer process, which enables them to achieve wavelength‐tunable semiconductor lasers spanning the full visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Their distributed feedback (DFB) lasers using these guest–host blends as gain media cover almost all CIE color gamut (94%), which is 170% more perceptible colors than standard Red Green Blue color space. These insights can guide the versatile and convenient design of organic semiconductor materials transcending the current gain bandwidth limitation, paving the way for next generation of optoelectronic devices.
Synchronous Outcoupling of Tri‐Colored Light for Ultra‐Bright White Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes by Using External Wrinkle Pattern
Authors: Qi Hui , Wang Shujie , Huang Guangguang , Tu Yufei , Li Chenguang , Jiang Xiaohong , Fang Yan , Wang Aqiang , Shen Huaibin , Du Zuliang
Published: February 2022

The brightness of white quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (W‐QLEDs) is one of the most important indicators for their commercialization. However, the brightness of W‐QLEDs is severely limited by the light trapped in the substrate mode. In this work, a prototype W‐QLED with the original brightness of 88 181 cd m−2 is fabricated by using a mixture of red‐, green‐, and blue‐emitting quantum dots as a light emitting layer. Then, a tailored wrinkle pattern is attached on the bottom of the glass substrate of W‐QLEDs for the further light extraction. Different from the widely used external periodic patterns, the wrinkle patterns with richer Fourier spectra can outcouple the tricolor light trapped in the substrate mode simultaneously. In this case, the brightness of W‐QLEDs has a 54.4% enhancement to an ultra‐high value 136 207 cd m−2, and realizes the quasi‐Lambertian emission. The external quantum efficiency is improved from 9.68% to 13.41%. Meanwhile, correlated color‐temperature can cover a wider span transforming from pure white light (5115 K) to cold white light (6912 K). This work proposes a unique and efficient approach for the light extraction and color control of W‐QLEDs for their real application.
Single‐Component Molecular Dual Persistent Room Temperature Phosphorescence from Low‐ and High‐Lying Triplet States
Authors: She Pengfei , Duan Jiayu , Lu Jinyu , Qin Yanyan , Li Feiyang , Liu Chenyuan , Liu Shujuan , Ma Yun , Zhao Qiang
Published: February 2022

Single molecules with dual persistent luminescence are very rarely explored, in spite of their emerging use in frontier optoelectronic applications. Here, a pure organic phosphor of tris(4‐chlorophenyl)phosphine oxide (CPO) possessing a large energy gap between the lowest excited triplet (T1) and higher excited triplet (T2) states is reported, which can emit dual persistent room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) from low‐ and high‐lying triplet excited states. The femtosecond transient absorption experiments and theoretical calculations reveal that the excitons to the T1 and T2 states are populated through different pathways. As a result, the distribution of the triplet excitons can be efficiently manipulated by using different excitation energy, and tunable afterglow colors from green to yellow can be achieved. Furthermore, the CPO molecule is successfully applied in the fabrication of high‐level anti‐counterfeiting tags and flexible 3D objects with curling properties. From these initial discoveries, it is expected that triphenylphosphine derivatives, with their rich chemistry of core‐substitution, can provide infinite opportunities in the expansion of organic molecules with high‐lying persistent RTP.
Adiabatic Connection for Range‐Separated Hybrid Functionals
Authors: Garrick Rachel , Kronik Leeor , Gould Tim
Published: February 2022

A generalized adiabatic connection that applies to any type of range‐separated hybrid (RSH) functional employed within generalized Kohn–Sham (KS) theory is presented. This generalized relation is then used to derive a definition for a rigorous distinction between multiplicative exchange and correlation components. The developed adiabatic connection is defined in terms of both generalized and conventional KS orbitals. It is shown, however, that using only the KS orbitals produces an error that is , where is fully defined in terms of parameters in the RSH functional, and is found to be small in practical calculations. It is expected that this new adiabatic connection can assist in the development of new RSH functionals and the assessment of existing ones.
Unveiling Charge Carrier Recombination, Extraction, and Hot‐Carrier Dynamics in Indium Incorporated Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Chaocheng , Zhang Tianju , Zhang Chao , Liu Xiaolin , Wang Jun , Lin Jia , Chen Xianfeng
Published: February 2022

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been propelled into the limelight over the past decade due to the rapid‐growing power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, the internal defects and the interfacial energy level mismatch are detrimental to the device performance and stability. In this study, it is demonstrated that a small amount of indium (In3+) ions in mixed cation and halide perovskites can effectively passivate the defects, improve the energy‐level alignment, and reduce the exciton binding energy. Additionally, it is confirmed that In3+ ions can significantly elevate the initial carrier temperature, slow down the hot‐carrier cooling rate, and reduce the heat loss before carrier extraction. The device with 1.5% of incorporated In3+ achieves a PCE of 22.4% with a negligible hysteresis, which is significantly higher than that of undoped PSCs (20.3%). In addition, the unencapsulated PSCs achieve long‐term stability, which retain 85% of the original PCE after 3,000 h of aging in dry air. The obtained results demonstrate and promote the development of practical, highly efficient, and stable hot‐carrier‐enhanced PSCs.
Long‐term translocation explains population genetic structure of a recreationally fished iconic species in Japan: Combining current knowledge with reanalysis
Authors: Kitada Shuichi
Published: February 2022

Ayu (Plecoglossus altivelis altivelis) is an important freshwater fisheries resource and popular recreational fishing species in Japan that lives for only 1 year, with a single breeding season. To supplement increased recreational fishing demand for this species, more than 13 million wild‐born landlocked juveniles are translocated every year from Lake Biwa into Japanese rivers, and more than 52 million hatchery‐reared juveniles born from captive‐reared parents have been extensively released. The translocation of landlocked juveniles and hatchery release has continued for more than 100 and 30 generations, respectively. Previous studies have reported that landlocked and amphidromous forms of Ayu easily hybridise, leading to concerns that the fitness of hybrid progeny would be reduced in the wild. However, limited information exists regarding the reproductive success of landlocked Ayu in translocated rivers, and to date no studies have evaluated the effects of translocation on population structure. Demonstrating that hybridisation occurs between the two forms is central to future management and conservation of this species. To address this, a literature search to summarise biological knowledge of Ayu and population genetic data screening was undertaken, and published genetic data sets covering a distribution range in Japan were reanalysed. Analyses provide strong evidence for very high gene flow between sampling locations. Genetic diversity is homogeneous in amphidromous samples. Bayesian admixture analysis infers widespread hybridisation in Japanese rivers (24 ± 8%). Maximum likelihood admixture graphs detect two migration events from Lake Biwa to rivers in the northern Sea of Japan and Hokkaido. Analyses consistently indicate that hybridisation between translocated landlocked juveniles and native amphidromous Ayu occurs throughout Japanese rivers. These results are discussed in relation to the management of this species.
Sarcoidosis in Northern Ontario hard‐rock miners: A case series
Authors: Oliver L. Christine , Sampara Paul , Pearson Donna , Martell Janice , Zarnke Andrew M.
Published: February 2022

Sarcoidosis is a rare multisystem granulomatous disease traditionally considered to be of unknown etiology. The notion that sarcoidosis has no known cause is called into question with the increasing number of case reports and epidemiologic studies showing associations between occupational exposures and disease published in the past 10–20 years. Occupational exposures for which associations are strongest and most consistent are silica and other inorganic dusts, World Trade Center (WTC) dust, and metals. Occupations identified as at‐risk for sarcoidosis include construction workers; iron‐foundry and diatomaceous earth workers; WTC emergency responders; and metal workers. We report here 12 cases of sarcoidosis in a cohort of hard‐rock miners in Northern Ontario, Canada. To our knowledge sarcoidosis has not been reported previously in hard‐rock miners. The cases are all male and Caucasian, with average age 74 years. At the time of diagnosis, two were never smokers; six, former smokers; and four, current smokers. Five have extrapulmonary sarcoidosis: two cardiac and three endocrine (hypercalciuria). Using occupational histories and air sampling data from the gold, uranium, and base‐metal mines in which they worked, we examined exposure of each case to respirable crystalline silica (RCS). The annual mean RCS exposure for the 12 cases was 0.14 mg/m3 (range: 0.06–1.3 mg/m3); and the mean cumulative RCS exposure was 1.93 mg/m3 years (range: 0.64–4.03 mg/m3 years). We also considered their exposure to McIntyre Powder, an aluminum powder used for silicosis prophylaxis.
Computing ship strikes and near miss events of fin whales along the main ferry routes in the Pelagos Sanctuary and adjacent west area, in summer
Authors: David Léa , Arcangeli Antonella , Tepsich Paola , Di‐Meglio Nathalie , Roul Marine , Campana Ilaria , Gregorietti Martina , Moulins Aurélie , Rosso Massimiliano , Crosti Roberto
Published: February 2022

The Mediterranean Sea is a high‐density maritime traffic area, particularly in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Ship strikes pose a substantial threat to fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) according to reports from the IUCN, the IWC, the ACCOBAMS and the EU Habitats Directive.

Near miss events (NMEs) were collected, as a proxy indicator of ship strikes for fin whales, along the main ferry routes crossing the Pelagos Sanctuary and adjacent western waters during ‘summertime’ (April to October). The ‘Fixed Line Transect Med Network’ carries out systematic surveys from ferries and collects data according to the ‘linear transect’ method. From 2008 to 2019, 13 different ferry routes were surveyed with 238,499 km monitored.

Of the 2,775 fin whales encountered, 43 individuals were involved in NMEs (1.55% of the sightings). NMEs occur over the great majority of the routes monitored with enough effort and were correlated with the density index of fin whales.

High‐risk areas for NMEs were identified in the central and deeper parts of the north‐western Mediterranean Sea and in some sections of the northern Tyrrhenian Sea.

Of all NMEs, the majority of whales (63.4%) surfaced in front of the vessel (<50 m), leaving no time for the crew to manoeuvre the vessel. The others were travelling (26.8%) or resting (9.7%) without any noticeable reaction at the vessel.

The speed of the ferries seems to play a role in the occurrence of the NME, as this parameter is significantly different (t‐test,P = 0.002) for NMEs compared to all fin whale sightings, whereas month and hour of day were not.

Quantifying NMEs based on real‐time observation with observers on board, could be used as a feasible and efficient way to limit collisions, raising awareness by the crew, and testing or evaluating other potential tools that can help mitigate this threat.
Rapid population decline in one of the last recruiting populations of the endangered Clanwilliam sandfish (Labeo seeberi): The roles of climate change and non‐native fish
Authors: Cerrilla Cecilia , Afrika Johannes , Impson Dean , Jordaan Martine S. , Kotze Nathan , Paxton Bruce R. , Reed Cecile , Schumann Mandy , van der Walt Johannes A. , Shelton Jeremy M.
Published: February 2022

Freshwater fish are in decline worldwide as a result of introduced non‐native species, impoundment, water quality changes, over‐abstraction, and climate change.

The Clanwilliam sandfish Labeo seeberi is an endangered migratory cyprinid endemic to a single river system in South Africa's Cape Fold Ecoregion. It has declined across its range and persists as fragmented populations in the Doring River system.

One of the last recruiting populations occurs in the Oorlogskloof River, where three non‐native fish species are present: smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu, bluegill sunfish Lepomis macrochirus (both alien and invasive), and banded tilapia Tilapia sparrmanii (extralimital). Impacts of these non‐natives, together with climate change, may pose a serious threat to this important sandfish population and to other cohabiting native fish species.

A 6 year data set, collected over 9 years and spanning 25 km of the Oorlogskloof River, was analysed to characterize spatio‐temporal variation in sandfish abundance and size structure and to evaluate the relative impacts of biotic and abiotic factors on population trends.

Sandfish experienced a 92.6% decline in relative abundance from 2013 to 2018, driven by a 99.6% decline in young‐of‐the‐year individuals. A combination of extreme rainfall events and drought appear to have played a key role in the decline and subsequently prevented recovery.

Small sandfish (≤200 mm) were almost entirely absent from the centrarchid‐invaded section of the Oorlogskloof but were relatively abundant where these centrarchids were absent, suggesting a strong adverse impact of these non‐native species. Banded tilapia co‐occurred with sandfish without any apparent adverse impacts on the relative abundance or size structure of sandfish.

Improved water resource management and preventing the further spread of non‐natives must be conservation priorities. Localized eradication of non‐native species must also be considered to reclaim habitat and restore connectivity. Translocations may be required to prevent species extinctions.
Molecular docking studies of YKT tripeptide and drug delivery system with poly(ε‐caprolactone) nanoparticles
Authors: Bicak Bilge , Kecel‐Gunduz Serda , Budama‐Kilinc Yasemin , Ozdemir Burak
Published: February 2022

Tyrosyllysylthreonine (YKT) is a peptide structure that contains three different amino acids in its structure and has anticancer properties. The main purpose of this study is to reveal the structural interactions of the peptide and to increase the efficiency of the peptide with nanoformulation. For these purposes, YKT‐loaded poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using the double‐emission precipitation method and the obtained NPs were characterized with a Zeta Sizer, UV‐Vis, Fourier transform infrared–attenuated total reflection spectrometers, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The in vitro release profile of the peptide‐loaded PCL NPs was determined. In molecular modeling studies, PCL, PCL–polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and PCL–PVA–YKT systems were simulated in an aqueous medium by molecular dynamics simulations, separately. The information about the interactions between the YKT tripeptide and the epidermal growth factor and androgen, estrogen, and progesterone receptors were obtained with the molecular docking study. Additionally, the ADME profile of YKT was determined as a result of each docking study. In conclusion, tripeptide‐based nanodrug development studies of the YKT tripeptide are presented in this study.
Memory for facial expressions on the autism spectrum: The influence of gaze direction and type of expression
Authors: Macinska Sylwia , Jellema Tjeerd
Published: February 2022

Face memory research in autism has largely neglected memory for facial expressions, in favor of memory for identity. This study in three experiments examined the role of gaze direction and type of expression on memory for facial expressions in relation to the autism spectrum. In the learning phase, four combinations of facial expressions (joy/anger) and gaze direction (toward/away), displayed by 16 different identities, were presented. In a subsequent surprise test the same identities were presented displaying neutral expressions, and the expression of each identity had to be recalled. In Experiment 1, typically‐developed (TD) individuals with low and high Autism Quotient (AQ) scores were tested with three repetitions of each emotion/gaze combination, which did not produce any modulations. In Experiment 2, another group of TD individuals with low and high AQ scores were tested with eight repetitions, resulting in a “happy advantage” and a “direct gaze advantage”, but no interactions. In Experiment 3, individuals with high‐functioning autism (HFA) and a matched TD group were tested using eight repetitions. The HFA group revealed no emotion or gaze effects, while the matched TD group showed both a happy and a direct gaze advantage, and again no interaction. The results suggest that in autistic individuals the memory for facial expressions is intact, but is not modulated by the person's expression type and gaze direction. We discuss whether anomalous implicit learning of facial cues could have contributed to these findings, its relevance for social intuition, and its possible contribution to social deficits in autism.

Lay summary

It has often been found that memory for someone's face (facial identity) is less good in autism. However, it is not yet known whether memory for someone's facial expression is also less good in autism. In this study, the memory for expressions of joy and anger was investigated in typically‐developed (TD) individuals who possessed either few or many autistic‐like traits (Experiments 1 and 2), and in individuals with high‐functioning autism (Experiment 3). The gaze direction was also varied (directed either toward, or away from, the observer). We found that TD individuals best remembered expressions of joy, and remembered expressions of both joy and anger better when the gaze was directed at them. These effects did not depend on the extent to which they possessed autistic‐like traits. Autistic participants remembered the facial expression of a previously encountered person as good as TD participants did. However, in contrast to the TD participants, the memory of autistic participants was not influenced by the expression type and gaze direction of the previously encountered persons. We discuss whether this may lead to difficulties in the development of social intuition, which in turn could give rise to difficulties in social interaction that are characteristic for autism.
Deciphering binding affinity, energetics, and base specificity of plant alkaloid Harmane with AT and GC hairpin duplex DNA
Authors: Luikham Soching , A Mavani , Bhattacharyya Jhimli
Published: February 2022

Insights into binding efficacy and thermodynamic aspects of small molecules are important for rational drug designing and development. Here, the interaction of Harmane (Har), a very important bioactive indole alkaloid, with AT and GC hairpin duplex−DNAs has been reported using various biophysical tools. Detailed molecular mechanism with special emphasis on binding nature, base specificity, and thermodynamics have been elucidated via probing nucleic acids with varying base compositions. Har bound to both the DNA strands exhibited hypochromic effect in absorbance whereas bathochromic and hypochromic effects in fluorescence spectra. The binding constants estimated were in the order of 105 M−1 (higher for GC sequence compared with AT) with 1:1 stoichiometry. Noncooperative binding mode has been observed via intercalation in both the cases. The thermodynamic profile was obtained from temperature‐dependent fluorescence experiments. Both Har–AT and Har–GC complexations were exothermic in nature associated with positive entropy and negative enthalpy changes. Salt‐dependent studies revealed that the binding interaction was governed by nonpolyelectrolytic and hydrophobic interaction forces. The ligand‐induced structural perturbation of the DNA structures was evident from the circular dichroism data. Molecular modelling data indicated towards the involvement of hydrophobic forces and hydrogen bonding.
Breast cancer screening among Hispanic and non‐Hispanic White women by birthplace in the Sister Study
Authors: Talham Charlotte J. , Montiel Ishino Francisco A. , O'Brien Katie M. , Sandler Dale P. , Williams Faustine
Published: February 2022

Background

Hispanic/Latina women are less likely to be diagnosed with local stage breast cancer than White women. Additionally, foreign‐born women have lower mammography rates than US‐born women. We evaluated the combined effect of birthplace and race/ethnicity on screening habits of women at higher‐than‐average risk of breast cancer.

Methods

Multinomial logistic regression was used to evaluate breast cancer screening in 44,524 women in the Sister Study cohort. Screening methods ascertained at enrollment (2003–2009) included mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. Timing of screening was assessed as recently (≤2 years ago), formerly (>2 years ago), and never screened. Adjustments included sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and health variables.

Results

Most women in the sample were US‐born non‐Hispanic/Latina White (92%), were ≥50 years old (73%), had one first‐degree female relative with breast cancer (73%), and were screened in the past two years (97%). US‐born Hispanic/Latina women had higher odds (odds ratio [OR] = 1.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08–2.00) than US‐born non‐Hispanic/Latina White women of not having received a breast cancer screening in the past 2 years, relative to a recent screening. Similarly, foreign‐born Hispanic/Latina women had higher odds (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.10–2.41) than US‐born non‐Hispanic/Latina White women of never having received a breast cancer screening.

Conclusion

We observed that Hispanic/Latina women have higher odds of never and dated breast cancer screenings compared to US‐born White women. Birthplace and race/ethnicity each contribute to disparities in who receives preventative health care in the United States. It is critical to include birthplace when evaluating health behaviors in minority groups.
Direct Crystallization of Diamine Radical Cations: Carbon‐Nitrogen Bond Formation from the Reaction of Triphenylamine with TiCl4, TiBr4, or SnCl4 versus Carbon‐Carbon Bond Formation with SbCl5**
Authors: Roy Mrittika , Walton Jeffrey H. , Fettinger James C. , Balch Alan L.
Published: February 2022

Direct synthesis of diamine radical cations in crystalline form proceeding through oxidation of triphenylamine followed by the formation of a new C−N bond is reported. Although the oxidative coupling of triphenylamine is well studied, diamine products are rarely captured in their radical cation state. The neutral diamine most frequently obtained from this reaction pathway is N,N,N’,N’‐tetraphenylbenzidine. Herein, the capture of radical cations of diamines in crystalline form in one step starting with neutral triphenylamine was demonstrated, and the formation of two products (the radical cations of N,N,N′,N′‐tetraphenyl‐1,4‐benzenediamine or N,N,N′,N′‐tetraphenylbenzidine) depending on the oxidizing agent used was observed. The radical species are characterized by single‐crystal X‐Ray diffraction, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and optical spectroscopy.
Performance evolution of industrial radiant syngas cooler with radiation screens using numerical simulation
Authors: Wang Lei , Qiu Jianyong , He Qing , Guo Qinghua , Xu Jianliang , Ding Lu , Yu Guangsuo
Published: February 2022

Radiant syngas cooler (RSC) is an important piece of equipment for heat recovery and steam generation in the gasification plant. In this work, the industrial RSC model of an opposed multi‐burner coal‐water‐slurry gasification device is established, and the heat recovery performance of RSC is studied by numerical simulation method. The simulation result of the total heat transfer rate is compared with the industrial operation data. The effect of different operating parameters on RSC is further studied, including the operating load, inlet syngas temperature, and ash deposition thickness. The results show that there is a spindle‐shaped high‐temperature zone on the circumferential membrane wall surface with a distance of 6.5 m from the top under the basic operating conditions. There is also an obvious high‐temperature zone in the mid‐upper section of the fire side for the radiation screen. When the operating load decreases from 100% to 60%, the outlet syngas temperature decreases by 167 K, and the steam output decreases by 22%. The influence of inlet syngas temperature on outlet syngas temperature and steam output is approximately linear. For every 10 K drop of inlet syngas temperature, the outlet syngas temperature decreases by 10 K, and the steam output decreases by 0.91 × 103 kg/h. With the increase of the ash deposition thickness, the surface temperature and heat flux of the water wall rise and the outlet syngas temperature increases, while the steam output decreases. The research provides guidance for the design and stable operation of RSC in the radiation‐quenching gasification process.
Ofatumumab plus HyperCVAD/HD‐MA induction leads to high rates of minimal residual disease negativity in patients with newly diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma: Results of a phase 2 study
Authors: Torka Pallawi , Akhtar Othman S. , Reddy Nishitha M. , Baysal Bora E. , Kader Angela , Groman Adrienne , Nichols Jenna , Mavis Cory , Tario Joseph D. , Block AnneMarie W. , Sait Sheila N. J. , Ghione Paola , Sundaram Suchitra , Przespolewski Eugene R. , Mohr Alice , Lund Ian , Kostrewa Jessica , McWhite Kenneth , DeMarco Joseph , Johnson Michael , Darrall Andrea , Thomas‐Talley Rosh‐Neke , Wallace Paul K. , Neppalli Vishala , Hutson Alan , Hernandez‐Ilizaliturri Francisco J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Ofatumumab is a humanized type 1 anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody. Preclinical studies show improved complement‐mediated cytotoxicity (CMC) compared to rituximab in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of combining ofatumumab with HyperCVAD/MA (O‐HyperCVAD) in newly diagnosed MCL.

Methods

In this single‐arm phase 2 study, 37 patients were treated with the combination of O‐HyperCVAD for 4 or 6 cycles, followed by high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant. Primary objectives were overall response rate (ORR) and complete response (CR) rate at the end of therapy. Secondary objectives included minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity, progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

Median age was 60 years; ORR was 86% and 73% achieved a CR by modified Cheson criteria. The MRD negativity rate was 78% after 2 cycles of therapy, increasing to 96% at the end of induction; median PFS and OS were 45.5 months and 56 months, respectively. Achieving a post‐induction CR by both imaging and flow cytometry was associated with improved PFS and OS. Early MRD negativity (post‐2 cycles) was also associated with an improved PFS but not OS. There were 3 deaths while on therapy, and grades 3 and 4 adverse events (AEs) were observed in 22% and 68% of the patients.

Conclusion

The addition of ofatumumab to HyperCVAD/HD‐MA led to high rates of MRD negativity by flow cytometry in patients with newly diagnosed MCL. Achieving a CR post‐induction by both imaging and flow cytometry is associated with improved overall survival.
Modelling of edge plasma dynamics with active wall boundary conditions
Authors: Umansky Maxim V. , Smirnov Roman D. , Elwasif Wael R. , Krasheninnikov Sergei I.
Published: February 2022

A self‐consistent 2D model is presented for transport in boundary plasma and plasma‐facing material walls. Plasma dynamics in the domain is represented by a 2D collisional plasma fluid model in the edge‐plasma code UEDGE (Rognlien et al., J. Nucl. Mater.196–198(1992) 347), and transport of hydrogen and heat in the wall is represented by a system of reaction–diffusion equations in the 1D wall code FACE (Smirnov et al., Fusion Sci. Technol.71(2017) 75). To account for variation of parameters along the wall, in the coupled model multiple instances of the FACE code run in parallel. The coupled model provides a tool for investigating a range of dynamic plasma–material interactions phenomena in 2D. For demonstration of its capability, one application of particular interest is the role of active wall in tokamak strike point sweeping proposed for mitigation of divertor heat loads. In the present study, the coupled calculations are applied to investigation of the impact of heat and hydrogen transport in the material wall on the divertor plasma and target heat load during sweeping of the target strike point for parameters of a high‐power tokamak.
Inherent bioelectrical parameters of hundreds of thousands of single leukocytes based on impedance flow cytometry
Authors: Tan Huiwen , Wang Minruihong , Zhang Yi , Huang Xukun , Chen Deyong , Li Yueying , Wu Min‐Hsien , Wang Ke , Wang Junbo , Chen Jian
Published: February 2022

As label‐free biomarkers, bioelectrical properties of single cells have been widely used in hematology analyzers for 3‐part differential of leukocytes, in which, however, instrument dependent bioelectrical parameters (e.g., DC/AC impedance values) rather than inherent bioelectrical parameters (e.g., diameter Dc, specific membrane capacitance Csm and cytoplasmic conductivity σcy) were used, leading to poor comparisons among different instruments. In order to address this issue, this study collected inherent bioelectrical parameters from hundreds of thousands of white blood cells based on a home‐developed impedance flow cytometry with corresponding 3‐part differential of leukocytes realized. More specifically, leukocytes were separated into three major subtypes of granulocytes, monocytes and lymphocytes based on density gradient centrifugation. Then these separated cells were aspirated through a constriction‐microchannel based impedance flow cytometry where inherent bioelectrical parameters of Dc, Csm and σcy were quantified as 9.8 ± 0.7 μm, 2.06 ± 0.26 μF/cm2, and 0.34 ± 0.05 S/m for granulocytes (ncell = 134,829); 10.4 ± 1.0 μm, 2.45 ± 0.48 μF/cm2, and 0.42 ± 0.08 S/m for monocytes (ncell = 40,226); 8.0 ± 0.5 μm, 2.23 ± 0.34 μF/cm2, and 0.35 ± 0.08 S/m for lymphocytes (ncell = 129,193). Based on these inherent bioelectrical parameters, neural pattern recognition was conducted, producing a high “classification accuracy” of 93.5% in classifying these three subtypes of leukocytes. These results indicate that as inherent bioelectrical parameters, Dc, Csm, and σcy can be used to electrically phenotype white blood cells in a label‐free manner.
Current perspectives in Leber congenital amaurosis type 8 mouse modeling
Authors: Nahar Ankur , Cho Seo‐Hee
Published: February 2022

Mutations in the CRB1 (Crumbs homolog 1) cause rare retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa type 12 (RP12) and Leber congenital amaurosis type 8 (LCA8). RP12 results in progressively worsening peripheral vision, whereas LCA8 causes severe visual impairment at birth or in early life. While several mouse models have been proposed for RP12, few replicate the full spectrum of human LCA8 pathology, such as disorganized retinal layering, abnormal retinal thickening, pigmentary defects, hyperreflective lesions, and severely attenuated electroretinogram responses at birth. Six models have been proposed utilizing the Cre‐loxP system to delete candidate genes in specific retinal cell types and developmental stages. The model ablating Crb1 and its homolog Crb2 (using mRx‐Cre) from the beginning of the eye development is the most complete as it shows blindness during the eye‐opening stage, pigmentary defects in the RPE, ganglion cell layer heterotopia, disruption of retinal lamination, and acellular patches. LCA8 represents a unique type of retinal dystrophy among LCA subtypes, driven by dysfunctional retinal progenitor cells during eye development. In contrast, other LCA types and RP12 are caused by photoreceptor defects. Therefore, the most accurate LCA8‐like mouse model must target both alleles of the Crb1 and Crb2 genes in the optic vesicle or earlier.
Singing strategies are linked to perch use on foraging territories in heart‐nosed bats
Authors: Smarsh Grace C. , Long Ashley M. , Smotherman Michael
Published: February 2022

Acoustic communication allows animals to coordinate and optimize resource utilization in space. Cardioderma cor, the heart‐nosed bat, is one of the few species of bats known to sing during nighttime foraging. Previous research found that heart‐nosed bats react aggressively to song playback, supporting the territorial defense hypothesis of singing in this species. We further investigated the territorial defense hypothesis from an ecological standpoint, which predicts that singing should be associated with exclusive areas containing a resource, by tracking 14 individuals nightly during the dry seasons in Tanzania. We quantified the singing behavior of individuals at all perches used throughout the night. Using home range analysis tools, we quantified overall use, night ranges and singing ranges, as well as areas used in early and later time periods at night. Males sang back and forth from small ( = 3.48 ± 2.71 ha), largely exclusive areas that overlapped with overall night ranges used for gleaning prey. Individuals varied in singing effort; however, all sang significantly more as night progressed. Subsequently, areas used earlier at night and overall use areas were both larger than singing areas. Individuals varied in singing strategies. Some males sang for long periods in particular trees and had smaller core areas, while others moved frequently among singing trees. The most prolific singers used more perches overall. Our results support the hypothesis that acoustic communication repertoires evolved in support of stable foraging territory advertisement and defense in some bats.
A hurricane alters the relationship between mangrove cover and marine subsidies
Authors: Peng Dan , Montelongo Denise C. , Wu Leslie , Armitage Anna R. , Kominoski John S. , Pennings Steven C.
Published: February 2022

As global change alters the composition and productivity of ecosystems, the importance of subsidies from one habitat to another may change. We experimentally manipulated black mangrove (Avicennia germinans) cover in 10 large plots and over a 5‐year period (2014–2019) quantifying the effects of mangrove cover on subsidies of floating organic material (wrack) into coastal wetlands. As mangrove cover increased from 0% to 100%, wrack cover and thickness decreased by ~60%, the distance that wrack penetrated into the plots decreased by ~70%, and the percentage of the wrack trapped in the first 6 m of the plot tripled. These patterns observed during 4 “normal” years disappeared in a fifth year following Hurricane Harvey (2017), when large quantities of wrack were pushed far into the interior of all the plots, regardless of mangrove cover. Prior to the storm, the abundance of animals collected in grab samples increased with wrack biomass. Wrack composition did not affect animal abundance or composition. Experimental outplants of two types of wrack (red algae and seagrass) revealed that animal abundance and species composition varied between the fringe and interior of the plots, and between microhabitats dominated by salt marsh versus mangrove vegetation. The importance of wrack to overall carbon stocks varied as a function of autochthonous productivity: wrack inputs (per m2) based on survey data were greater than aboveground plant biomass in the plots (42 × 24 m) dominated by salt‐marsh vegetation, but decreased to 5% of the total aboveground biomass in plots dominated by mangroves. Our results illustrate that increasing mangrove cover decreases the relative importance of marine subsidies into the intertidal at the plot level, but concentrates subsidies at the front edge of the mangrove stand. Storms, however, may temporarily override mangrove attenuation of wrack inputs. Our results highlight the importance of understanding how changes in plant species composition due to global change will impact marine subsidies and exchanges among ecosystems, and foster a broader understanding of the functional interdependence of adjacent habitats within coastal ecosystems.