bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When the Ferrocene Analogy Breaks Down: Metallocene Transmetallation Chemistry
Authors: Raviprolu Varun Tej , Farias Phillip , Carta Veronica , Harman Hill , Lavallo Vincent
Published: July 2023

Ferrocene 1 and its dianionic Fe(bis)(dicarbollide) analogue 2 are classical compounds that display unusual stability. These compounds are not known to undergo transmetallation chemistry of the Fe‐center and have been used extensively as chemical building blocks with consistent integrity. In this manuscript we describe the preparation of a charge compensated Fe(bis)(dicarbollide) species 3 Fe and its unprecedented transmetallation chemistry to Ir. Such reactions are hitherto unknown for any transition metal metallocene or metallacarborane complex. Additionally, we show that 3 Fe can be deprotonated to afford the corresponding bis(NHC) Li‐carbenoid 5 that also displays unique reactivity. When 5 is reacted with [Ir(COD)Cl]2 it also undergoes a rapid transmetallation of the ferrocene “like” core to afford 6 but with the added twist that the Li‐carbenoid moiety stays intact and does not transmetalate. However, when 6 is subsequently treated with CuCl, the Li‐carbenoid transmetalates to Cu, which allows the controlled formation of the corresponding heterobimetallic Ir/Cu aggregate. Lastly, when Li‐carbenoid 5 is treated directly with CuCl, a double transmetallation occurs from both Fe to Cu and Li‐carbenoid to Cu, resulting in the trimetallic Cu cluster 8. These novel reactions pave the way for new synthetic methods to build complicated polymetallic clusters in a controlled fashion.
Atmospheric plasma treatment to improve the surface properties of P3HB coating. A study of the influence of substrate roughness
Authors: Martinez H. , Vázquez‐Vélez E. , Galván‐Hernández A. , Radilla‐Bello J. , Xosocotla O. , Meza A. E.
Published: July 2023

Polyhydroxybutyrate (P3HB) is a biocompatible polymer. However, its hydrophobic surface can disrupt cell adhesion, which is essential in implanted biomaterials. Atmospheric plasma treatment is an environmentally friendly method that improves surface properties. This study analyzed P3HB coatings obtained on stainless steel by various mechanical interlocking and their plasma process. The surface free energy and the degree of crystallinity of coatings increased with the plasma treatment. Atomic force microscopy analysis showed that roughness improved, and adhesion energy increased by a factor of three after plasma treatment by inserting polar groups analyzed with Raman spectroscopy. Based on this, a mechanism of chemical functionalization by plasma on the surface is proposed. The results depend on the initial properties given by the mechanical interlocking at the metal‐polymer interface.
Endothelial Response to Type I Interferon Contributes to Vasculopathy and Fibrosis and Predicts Disease Progression of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Yin Hanlin , Distler Oliver , Shen Lichong , Xu Xiaojiang , Yuan Ye , Li Rui , Liu Bei , Li Qianqian , Huang Qianru , Xie Feng , Zhang Zhiliang , Liang Rui , Dai Xueyu , Chen Xiaoxiang , Li Bin , Yan Qingran , Lu Liangjing
Published: July 2023

Objective

Interferon (IFN)‐1 signatures are a hallmark of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, its significance in clinical stratification and contribution to deterioration still need to be better understood.

Methods

For hypothesis generation, we performed single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) on skin biopsies (four patients with SSc and two controls) using the BD Rhapsody platform. Two publicly available data sets of skin scRNA‐seq were used for validation (GSE138669: 12 patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc [dcSSc] and 10 controls; GSE195452: 52 patients with dcSSc and 41 patients with limited cutaneous SSc [lcSSc] and 54 controls). The IFN‐1 signature was mapped, functionally investigated in a bleomycin plus IFNα‐2 adenovirus‐associated virus (AAV)–induced model and verified in an SSc cohort (n = 61).

Results

The discovery and validation data sets showed similar findings. Endothelial cells (ECs) had the most prominent IFN‐1 signature among dermal nonimmune cells. The EC IFN‐1 signature was increased both in patients with SSc versus controls and in patients with dcSSc versus those with lcSSc. Among EC subclusters, the IFN‐1 signature was statistically higher in the capillary ECs of patients with dcSSc, which was higher than those in patients with lcSSc, which in turn was higher than those in healthy controls (HCs). Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) scores increased in parallel. Deteriorated bleomycin‐induced dermal fibrosis, EndoMT, and perivascular fibrosis and caused blood vessel loss with EC apoptosis. Vascular myxovirus resistance (MX) 1, an IFN‐1 response protein, was significantly increased both in total SSc versus HC skin and in dcSSc versus lcSSc skin. Baseline vascular MX1 performed similarly to skin score in predicting disease progression over 6 to 34 months in total SSc and was superior in the dcSSc subpopulation.

Conclusion

The EC IFN‐1 signature distinguished SSc skin subtypes and disease progression and may contribute to vasculopathy and fibrosis.

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Distinct Scleroderma Autoantibody Profiles Stratify Patients for Cancer Risk at Scleroderma Onset and During the Disease Course
Authors: Kim Ji Soo , Woods Adrianne , Gutierrez‐Alamillo Laura , Laffoon Maureen , Wigley Fredrick M. , Hummers Laura K. , Rosen Antony , Zeger Scott , Domsic Robyn T. , Casciola‐Rosen Livia , Shah Ami A.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

We examined whether an array of scleroderma autoantibodies associates with risk of cancer and could be useful tools for risk stratification.

Methods

Scleroderma cancer cases and scleroderma controls without cancer from the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center and the University of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Center were studied. Sera were assayed by Lineblot and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for autoantibodies against centromere, topoisomerase 1, RNA polymerase (POLR) 3, PM/Scl, Th/To, NOR90, U3 RNP, Ku, Ro52, U1RNP, and RNPC3. Logistic regression models were constructed to examine whether distinct autoantibodies associated with overall cancer at any time and cancer‐associated scleroderma (cancer occurring three years before and after scleroderma onset). The effects of having more than one autoantibody on cancer were further examined using random forest analysis.

Results

A total of 676 cases and 687 controls were studied. After adjusting for relevant covariates, anti‐POLR3 (odds ratio [OR] 1.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–2.11) and monospecific anti‐Ro52 (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.29–3.74) were associated with an increased overall cancer risk, whereas anticentromere (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.93) and anti‐U1RNP (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.43–0.93) were associated with lower risk. When examining risk of cancer‐associated scleroderma, these immune responses remained associated with increased or decreased risk: anti‐POLR3 (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.33–3.91), monospecific anti‐Ro52 (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.05–6.30), anticentromere (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.20–0.74), and anti‐U1RNP (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.11–0.93). Anti‐Ro52 plus anti‐U1RNP or anti‐Th/To was associated with decreased cancer risk compared with anti‐Ro52 alone.

Conclusions

These data suggest that five distinct scleroderma immune responses, alone or in combination, may be useful tools to stratify the risk of cancer for scleroderma patients. Further study examining cancer risk in autoantibody subgroups relative to the general population is warranted.

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Zum Nachweis gegen Versagen des Erdwiderlagers mit der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode
Authors: Jürgens Hauke , Henke Sascha
Published: July 2023

Die Anwendung der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode (FEM) hat sich in der Geotechnik in den letzten Jahrzehnten zur Prognose von auftretenden Verformungen im Grenzzustand der Gebrauchstauglichkeit (SLS) etabliert. Standsicherheitsnachweise im Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit (ULS) werden in der Praxis nur bedingt unter Verwendung der FEM geführt und sind aktuell noch Stand der Forschung. Durch die Neuordnung des Eurocodes 7 sollen zukünftig numerische Methoden hinsichtlich der Anwendung im ULS normativ geregelt werden. Offen hierbei ist bisher der Umgang mit den zusätzlich erforderlichen Nachweisen des deutschen Nationalen Anhangs und der DIN 1054. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird diesbezüglich eine Vorgehensweise zur numerischen Nachweisführung gegen Versagen bodengestützter Wände durch Drehung (bzw. Nachweis gegen Versagen des Erdwiderlagers) vorgestellt. In Anlehnung an die bereits etablierte Festigkeitsreduktionsmethode wird hierbei so vorgegangen, dass die Wichte des Bodens
und die Kohäsion
auf der Erdwiderstandsseite bis zum Erreichen eines Bruchzustands reduziert werden. Auf Grundlage dessen wird ein Sicherheitsfaktor für die vorhandene Einbindetiefe der Verbauwand definiert und darüber der Nachweis im ULS geführt. Im Anschluss erfolgt ein Vergleich mit dem analytischen Nachweisverfahren, womit Systemreserven durch die Verwendung der FEM identifiziert werden.
Hybrid High‐Voltage LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4/Graphite Cathodes Enabling Rechargeable Batteries with Simultaneous Anion‐ and Cation Storage
Authors: Künne Sven , Hesper Jakob Michael , Lein Tobias , Voigt Karsten , Mikhailova Daria , Michaelis Alexander , Winter Martin , Placke Tobias , Heubner Christian
Published: July 2023

A hybrid cathode concept that targets combining the specific advantages of Li‐ion batteries and dual‐ion batteries is proposed. LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO), (de)inserting Li+, and graphite, capable to (de)intercalate PF6− present in the electrolyte, are combined in one cathode, aiming for synergy effects due to the presence of two electrochemically active species to overcome rate limitations caused by electrolyte depletion. Hybrid cathodes of different compositions and designs are prepared and investigated regarding their properties and the storage mechanism using electrochemical analyses combined with operando XRD and extensive materials characterization, including scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Finally, hybrid cathodes with higher areal capacity are prepared and investigated regarding rate performance. Model‐based analysis of the results reveals design criteria and material properties required to achieve synergistic effects between the components in hybrid cathodes. These insights lay the foundation for a new type of battery with advantageous properties in terms of cost, environmental friendliness, and electrochemical performance.
Protein fouling during constant‐flux virus filtration: Mechanisms and modeling
Authors: Peles Joshua , Cacace Benjamin , Carbrello Christina , Giglia Sal , Zydney Andrew L.
Published: July 2023

As biomanufacturers consider the transition from batch to continuous processing, it will be necessary to re‐examine the design and operating conditions for many downstream processes. For example, the integration of virus removal filtration in continuous biomanufacturing will likely require operation at low and constant filtrate flux instead of the high (constant) transmembrane pressures (TMPs) currently employed in traditional batch processing. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of low operating filtrate flux (5–100 L/m2/h) on protein fouling during normal flow filtration of human serum Immunoglobulin G (hIgG) through the Viresolve® Pro membrane, including a direct comparison of the fouling behavior during constant‐flux and constant‐pressure operation. The filter capacity, defined as the volumetric throughput of hIgG solution at which the TMP increased to 30 psi, showed a distinct minimum at intermediate filtrate flux (around 20–30 L/m2/h). The fouling data were well‐described using a previously‐developed mechanistic model based on sequential pore blockage and cake filtration, suitably modified for operation at constant flux. Simple analytical expressions for the pressure profiles were developed in the limits of very low and high filtrate flux, enabling rapid estimation of the filter performance and capacity. The model calculations highlight the importance of both the pressure‐dependent rate of pore blockage and the compressibility of the protein cake to the fouling behavior. These results provide important insights into the overall impact of constant‐flux operation on the protein fouling behavior and filter capacity during virus removal filtration using the Viresolve® Pro membrane.
Worldwide trends in esophageal cancer survival, by sub‐site, morphology, and sex: an analysis of 696,974 adults diagnosed in 60 countries during 2000‐2014 (CONCORD‐3)
Authors: Matz Melissa , Valkov Mikhail , Šekerija Mario , Luttman Sabine , Caldarella Adele , Coleman Michel P , Allemani Claudia ,   the CONCORD Working Group
Published: July 2023

Background

Esophageal cancer survival is poor worldwide, though there is some variation. Differences in the distribution of anatomical sub‐site and morphological sub‐type may help explain international differences in survival for all esophageal cancers combined. We estimated survival by anatomic sub‐site and morphological sub‐type to understand further the impact of topography and morphology on international comparisons of esophageal cancer survival.

Methods

We estimated age‐standardized one‐year and five‐year net survival among adults (15‐99 years) diagnosed with esophageal cancer in each of 60 participating countries to monitor survival trends by calendar period of diagnosis (2000‐2004, 2005‐2009, 2010‐2014), sub‐site, morphology, and sex.

Results

For adults diagnosed during 2010‐2014, tumors in the lower third of the esophagus were the most common, followed by tumors of overlapping sub‐site and sub‐site not otherwise specified. The proportion of squamous cell carcinomas diagnosed during 2010‐2014 was generally higher in Asian countries (50%‐90%), while adenocarcinomas were more common in Europe, North America and Oceania (50%‐60%). From 2000‐2004 to 2010‐2014, the proportion of squamous cell carcinoma generally decreased, and the proportion of adenocarcinoma increased. Over time, there were few improvements in age‐standardized five‐year survival for each sub‐site. Age‐standardized one‐year survival was highest in Japan for both squamous cell carcinoma (67.7%) and adenocarcinoma (69.0%), ranging between 20%‐60% in most other countries. Age‐standardized five‐year survival from squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma was similar for most countries included, around 15%‐20% for adults diagnosed during 2010‐2014, though international variation was wider for squamous cell carcinoma. In most countries, survival for both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma increased by less than 5% between 2000‐2004 and 2010‐2014.

Conclusions

Esophageal cancer survival remains poor in many countries. The distributions of sub‐site and morphological sub‐type vary between countries, but these differences do not fully explain international variation in esophageal cancer survival.
Hepatoblastoma with neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis: Two case reports
Authors: He Sidou , Wang Xisi , Duan Chao , Zhao Wen , Jiang Chiyi , Zhang Shihan , Jian Binglin , Yang Wei , Yu Tong , Fu Libing , Wang Huanmin , Ma Xiaoli
Published: July 2023

We report two children with hepatoblastoma (HB) with a history of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Case 1 was diagnosed with HB at 5 months of age. Liver enlargement was found during the NEC operation at 3 months of age and then was clinically diagnosed by imaging. After six chemotherapy courses, a partial hepatectomy was performed. Three months after ceasing the chemotherapy, a chest computed tomography scan suggested that distant metastasis of the tumor should be considered, and the lesion was removed. However, 9 months after the operation, alpha‐fetoprotein concentrations were increased, and abdominal imaging showed a recurrence of the tumor in situ, resulting in a hepatectomy. Case 2 was diagnosed with NEC shortly after birth and underwent an intestinal resection and anastomosis 1 month later. He was diagnosed with HB at 3 years of age. Hepatectomy was performed after five courses of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy was stopped after 10 courses, and alpha‐fetoprotein concentrations were normal. At present, both children have survived and are in a healthy condition. Physicians should be aware of the possibility of HB and a history of NEC in children. Premature birth and low birth weight are common factors leading to the pathogenesis of HB and NEC. The association between these two diseases requires further study.
Individual and joint effect of socioeconomic status and lifestyle factors on cancer in Korea
Authors: Tran Chi Lan , Choi Kui Son , Kim Sun‐Young , Oh Jin‐Kyoung
Published: July 2023

Background

There is limited evidence on the individual and joint effect of socioeconomic status (SES) and unhealthy lifestyle on cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of these factors on cancer incidence and mortality.

Methods

In this population‐based cohort study, income was used as the proxy of SES. A combined unhealthy lifestyle score was obtained using data on smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and body mass index. Hazard ratios were estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The study included data on 8,353,169 participants (median follow‐up period, 17 years). Although the association between low income and cancer incidence varied depending on cancer type, low income consistently increased the risk of cancer‐related death with a social gradient. Unhealthy behaviors increased the risk of cancer incidence and mortality, except for thyroid and breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. Compared with the wealthiest and healthiest individuals, the poorest and unhealthiest men and women showed 2.1‐fold (2.05–2.14) and 1.36‐fold (1.31–1.41) higher risk of cancer‐related death, respectively. The joint effect was most robust for lung, liver, head, and neck cancers in men and liver and cervical cancers in women; further, the effect was stronger with cancer‐specific mortality than with incidence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, income and combined healthy lifestyle behaviors have individual and joint effects on cancer incidence and mortality. The effect varies by cancer type and sex.
Changes in spatial clusters of cancer incidence and mortality over 15 years in South Korea: Implication to cancer control
Authors: Nguyen Cham Thi , Song Insang , Jung Inkyung , Choi Yoon‐Jung , Kim Sun‐Young
Published: July 2023

Background

The temporal investigation of high‐risk areas of cancer incidence and mortality can provide practical implications in cancer control. We aimed to investigate the changes in spatial clusters of incidence and mortality from 1999 through 2013 by major cancer types in South Korea.

Methods

We applied flexible scan statistics to identify spatial clusters of cancer incidence and mortality by three 5‐year periods and seven major cancer types using the counts of new cases and deaths and population in 244 districts during 1999–2013. Then, we compared the changes across three periods in the locations of primary clusters of incidence and mortality by cancer types. To explore the determinants that possibly affect cancer cluster areas, we compared geographic characteristics between clustered and non‐clustered areas.

Results

While incidence clusters for lung, stomach, and liver cancer remained in the same areas over 15 years, mortality clusters were relocated to the areas similar to those of incidence clusters. In contrast, colorectal, breast, cervical, and prostate cancer displayed consistently different locations of clusters over time, indicating the disappearance of existing clusters and the appearance of new clusters. Cluster areas tended to show higher portions of older population, unemployment, smoking, and cancer screening compared to non‐cluster areas particularly for mortality.

Conclusions

Our findings of diverse patterns of changes in cancer incidence and mortality clusters over 15 years can indicate the degree of effectiveness in cancer prevention and treatment depending on the area and suggest the need for area‐specific applications of different cancer control programs.
Protective Effects of Caffeine on Chikungunya and Zika Virus Infections: An in Vitro and in Silico Study
Authors: de Jesús López Medina Yeferson , Tamayo‐Molina Yordi Sebastián , Valdés‐López Juan Felipe , Urcuqui‐Inchima Silvio
Published: July 2023

Infection by viruses Chikungunya (CHIKV) and Zika (ZIKV) continue to be serious problems in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Here, we evaluated the antiviral and virucidal activity of caffeine against CHIKV and ZIKV in Vero, A549, and Huh‐7 cell lines. Results showed that caffeine displays antiviral properties against both viruses. By pre‐and post‐infection treatment, caffeine significantly inhibited CHIKV and ZIKV replication in a dose‐dependent manner. Furthermore, caffeine showed a virucidal effect against ZIKV. Molecular docking suggests the possible binding of caffeine with envelope protein and RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase of CHIKV and ZIKV. This is the first study that showed an antiviral effect of caffeine against CHIKV and ZIKV. Although further studies are needed to better understand the mechanism of caffeine‐mediated repression of viral replication, caffeine appears to be a promising compound that could be used for in vivo studies, perhaps in synergy with other compounds present in daily beverages.
Application of Metal/Covalent Organic Frameworks in Separators for Metal‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Xin , Xu Xijun , Liu Jun
Published: July 2023

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are two emerging families of functional materials that have found widespread applications in various fields. With the unique features of large surface area, tunable pore structure, high porosity, and easy surface functionalization, they are considered a kind of promising separators candidates for novel separators in rechargeable batteries. Over the years, many studies on the application of MOF/COF‐based separators have been reported with excellent performance. Herein, we highlight the recent progress of MOF/COF separators for advanced batteries. Firstly, the key properties of MOF/COF separators are presented. Then, we summarize the fabrication methods of MOF/COF separators. Afterward, an overview of the applications of MOF/COF based separators in lithium‐based batteries, sodium‐based batteries, and other secondary batteries. Finally, we present a summary and future outlook of MOF/COF separators, including their potential and current challenges.
A taxonomy and survey of big data in social media
Authors: Hemmati Atefeh , Arzanagh Hanieh Mohammadi , Rahmani Amir Masoud
Published: July 2023

Examining the particular value of each platform for big data would be difficult because of the variety of social media forms and sizes. Using social media to objectively and subjectively analyze large groups of individuals makes it the most effective tool for this task. There are numerous sources of big data within the organization. Social media can be identified by the interaction and communication it facilitates. Utilizing social media has become a daily occurrence in modern society. In addition, this frequent use generates data demonstrating the importance of researching the relationship between big data and social media. It is because so many internet users are also active on social media. We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify 42 articles published between 2018 and 2022 that examined the significance of big data in social media and upcoming issues in this field. We also discuss the potential benefits of utilizing big data in social media. Our analysis discovered open problems and future challenges, such as high‐quality data, information accessibility, speed, natural language processing (NLP), and enhancing prediction approaches. As proven by our investigations of evaluation metrics for big data in social media, the distribution reveals that 24% is related to data‐trace, 12% is related to execution time, 21% to accuracy, 6% to cost, 10% to recall, 11% to precision, 11% to F1‐score, and 5% run time complexity.
Enhanced Catalytic Aryl Alkene Oxidation by Constructing Hierarchical Polyoxometalate‐Based Metal‐Organic Framework
Authors: Jiang Yue , Liang Yan , Zhang Mingxia , Zhang Zhong , Liu Yiwei
Published: July 2023

Achieving highly selective oxidation of aryl alkenes to aldehydes is of great significance in chemical industry. Herein, the performance of catalytic aryl alkene oxidation is enhanced via constructing a hierarchical fractal polyoxometalate‐based metal–organic framework (POM@MOF) containing hierarchical pores and layered surface structure, which improve the mass transfer efficiency of substrates and increase the accessibility to active POMs clusters. Accordingly, the activity of fractal POM@MOF is increased by 4.8 times compared with microporous counterpart in 4‐tert‐butylstyrene oxidation to aldehyde product. This work paves a way for designing efficient catalysts for selective oxidation of aryl alkenes via increasing the accessibility of active sites and broadening the diffusion channels by hierarchical construction.
Unbiased whole genome detection of ultrarare off‐target mutations in genome‐edited cell populations by HiFi sequencing
Authors: Miranda Jaime A. , Fenner Kristina , McKinzie Page B. , Dobrovolsky Vasily N. , Revollo Javier R.
Published: July 2023

DNA base editors (BEs) composed of a nuclease‐deficient Cas9 fused to a DNA‐modifying enzyme can achieve on‐target mutagenesis without creating double‐strand DNA breaks (DSBs). As a result, BEs generate far less DNA damage than traditional nuclease‐proficient Cas9 systems, which do rely on the creation of DSBs to achieve on‐target mutagenesis. The inability of BEs to create DSBs makes the detection of their undesired off‐target effects very difficult. PacBio HiFi sequencing can efficiently detect ultrarare mutations resulting from chemical mutagenesis in whole genomes with a sensitivity ~1 × 10−8 mutations per base pair. In this proof‐of‐principle study, we evaluated whether this technique could also detect the on‐ and off‐target mutations generated by a cytosine‐to‐thymine (C>T) BE targeting the LacZ gene in Escherichia coli (E. coli). HiFi sequencing detected on‐target mutant allele fractions ranging from ~7% to ~63%, depending on the single‐guide RNA (sgRNA) used, while no on‐target mutations were detected in controls lacking the BE. The presence of the BE resulted in a ~3‐fold increase in mutation frequencies compared to controls lacking the BE, irrespective of the sgRNA used. These increases were mostly composed of C:G>T:A substitutions distributed throughout the genome. Our results demonstrate that HiFi sequencing can efficiently identify on‐ and off‐target mutations in cell populations that have undergone genome editing.
A digital microfluidic chip with programmable open system actuation and enhanced optical annealing with near‐infrared light
Authors: Lepard Sydney , Spotts Isaac , Brodie C. Harrison , Leclerc Camille A. , Eswar Rahul , Li Huiyan , Collier Christopher M.
Published: July 2023

This work investigates a digital microfluidic chip and presents an advancement to microfluidic optical annealing methods through the application of whispering gallery mode (WGM) with near infrared excitation. Establishing a microfluidic chip with point‐of‐care capabilities, including actuation and annealing, has proven to be important. Unfortunately, poor heat absorption due to the long optical penetration depth of near infrared light creates scaling limitations for applications in optical‐based microfluidics. Through the application of WGM, the interaction length between the droplet and light is increased beyond the droplet diameter to improve heating and optical absorption. This is supported by finite‐difference time‐domain electromagnetic simulations and experimental results showing a greatly improved temperature change. Such a system is implemented in an open system digital microfluidic chip, to facilitate annealing via side illumination of droplets. The open system digital microfluidic chip is programmable for droplet actuation. The fundamental experiment of preprogrammed actuation of microdroplets is demonstrated in a 36 electrode grid. The results of annealing and actuation show potential for implementation in point‐of‐care microfluidic devices.
Monetary policy and exchange rate anomalies in set‐identified SVARs: Revisited
Authors: Rüth Sebastian K. , Van der Veken Wouter
Published: July 2023

Set‐identified vector autoregressions typically document violations of uncovered interest rate parity (forward discount puzzle) and gradual appreciation–depreciation cycles of exchange rates (delayed overshooting puzzle) following contractionary monetary policy shocks. We revisit both anomalies in a framework similar to Kim et al. (2017, JPE). We complement their identifying restrictions on how monetary policy affects the economy with restrictions on (i) how monetary policy reacts to the economy and (ii) historical monetary policy innovations. In this hybrid identification, no major forward discount premia emerge. Once we additionally impose that monetary policy propagates through domestic financial conditions, exchange rates also overshoot with less delay.
Social determinants of mental health: Implications for measurement, research, and evaluation
Authors: Mason Sarah , Ragan Moira , Gilbert Stephanie Hope , Lenz A. Stephen
Published: July 2023

In this article, we seek to broaden perspectives on program evaluation in the mental health domain. We argue that the social determinants of mental health (SDMH) framework can serve as a theory, within the context of theory‐driven evaluation, to guide evaluation practice in counseling and mental health. We posit that applying an SDMH framework enables evaluators to conduct more holistic, systems‐focused, and useful evaluations of mental health programs. The SDMH framework facilitates this by (1) serving as an empirically based framework to guide discussions about program design and improvement, (2) helping evaluators identify the most critical constructs to measure, and (3) connecting evaluators to previously validated instruments that measure those constructs. Additionally, through use of the SDMH framework, evaluators gain access to a literature base that helps build understanding of how to interpret evaluation findings. In contrast to traditional, goal‐oriented evaluation, such a theory‐driven approach has multiple advantages.
Synthesis of isoamyl hexanoate catalyzed by deep eutectic solvent based on benzyltrimethylammonium chloride:RSMandANNoptimization and kinetics
Authors: Sun Jing , Xu Jumei , Zeng Zuoxiang , Xue Weilan
Published: July 2023

Background

Isoamyl hexanoate is a widely used edible spice. In this paper, the process and kinetics of the esterification of hexanoic acid and isoamyl alcohol to isoamyl hexanoate catalyzed by deep eutectic solvents (DESs) were studied. Several kinds of DESs (BTMAC‐zPTSA) were prepared from benzyltrimethylammonium chloride (BTMAC) andp‐toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (PTSA) with a molar ratio ofz. The synthesis process of isoamyl hexanoate was optimized by response surface methodology and artificial neural network. The effects of process conditions such as the kind and load of catalyst, alcohol/acid ratio and reaction temperature were studied. In the temperature range of 338.15 to 368.15 K, BTMAC‐1.2PTSA was selected as the catalyst, and then the kinetic data and chemical equilibrium composition of the esterification of hexanoic acid with isoamyl alcohol were determined.

Results

After optimizing the synthesis process of isoamyl hexanoate using response surface methodology and artificial neural network, the conversion rate of hexanoic acid increased to 92.15%. The esterification reaction kinetics were described using a pseudo‐homogeneous model based on activity, with an average relative deviation of 1.9% and activation energy of 25.79 kJ mol−1. The catalytic performance of catalyst BTMAC‐1.2PTSA remains good after five cycles of use.

Conclusion

The established kinetic model has a good predictive effect on the kinetic data for the synthesis of isoamyl hexanoate. The catalyst BTMAC‐1.2PTSA has good stability and recyclability, and has the potential to replace traditional catalysts in the production of isoamyl hexanoate. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Moving toward transdisciplinary approaches to addressing HIV and psychological trauma: Barriers and facilitators to building collaborations
Authors: Goodrum Nada M. , Lopez Cristina M. , delMas Sara , Davies Faraday , Lampe Brooke , Eckard Allison R. , Danielson Carla Kmett , Rheingold Alyssa A. , Moreland Angela D.
Published: July 2023

Most people living with HIV have experienced potentially traumatic events (e.g., physical assault, sexual assault, intimate partner violence) and, consequently, are at risk of trauma‐related mental health difficulties, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet, research and clinical efforts related to HIV and psychological trauma remain siloed. Guided by the four‐phase model of transdisciplinary research, the current study explored barriers and facilitators to transdisciplinary HIV/trauma clinical and research collaborations to address the overlap between HIV and psychological trauma. This exploration represents an initial step in the development and conceptualization of a transdisciplinary team known as Team REACH (Resiliency, Engagement, and Accessibility for Comorbid HIV/PTSD), which seeks to address the overlap between HIV and psychological trauma. Barriers and facilitators were explored through individual qualitative interviews with 21 research and clinical staff members across two clinics within an academic medical center (i.e., an infectious diseases clinic and a trauma‐focused specialty mental health clinic). The findings revealed a number of barriers, including a lack of awareness, time and funding concerns, and a lack of clarity regarding services or the division of responsibility. The results also highlight perceived facilitators for collaborations, such as existing infrastructure and relationships, shared goals, leadership support, knowledge of other agency activities, and staff/team buy‐in. Recommendations for increased collaboration included ongoing communication, needs assessment and goal development, access to partners, and role establishment. These findings will guide the next steps in further developing transdisciplinary collaboration goals and have implications for increasing collaborative approaches to patient care and targeting processes to enhance team effectiveness for transdisciplinary goals.
Temporal Signature of Task‐Specificity in Isolated Focal Laryngeal Dystonia
Authors: Ehrlich Stefan K. , Battistella Giovanni , Simonyan Kristina
Published: July 2023

Background and Objective

Laryngeal dystonia (LD) is focal task‐specific dystonia, predominantly affecting speech but not whispering or emotional vocalizations. Prior neuroimaging studies identified brain regions forming a dystonic neural network and contributing to LD pathophysiology. However, the underlying temporal dynamics of these alterations and their contribution to the task‐specificity of LD remain largely unknown. The objective of the study was to identify the temporal–spatial signature of altered cortical oscillations associated with LD pathophysiology.

Methods

We used high‐density 128‐electrode electroencephalography (EEG) recordings during symptomatic speaking and two asymptomatic tasks, whispering and writing, in 24 LD patients and 22 healthy individuals to investigate the spectral dynamics, spatial localization, and interregional effective connectivity of aberrant cortical oscillations within the dystonic neural network, as well as their relationship with LD symptomatology.

Results

Symptomatic speaking in LD patients was characterized by significantly increased gamma synchronization in the middle/superior frontal gyri, primary somatosensory cortex, and superior parietal lobule, establishing the altered prefrontal‐parietal loop. Hyperfunctional connectivity from the left middle frontal gyrus to the right superior parietal lobule was significantly correlated with the age of onset and the duration of LD symptoms. Asymptomatic whisper in LD patients had not no statistically significant changes in any frequency band, whereas asymptomatic writing was characterized by significantly decreased synchronization of beta‐band power localized in the right superior frontal gyrus.

Conclusion

Task‐specific oscillatory activity of prefrontal‐parietal circuitry is likely one of the underlying mechanisms of aberrant heteromodal integration of information processing and transfer within the neural network leading to dystonic motor output. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Differential Implications of Cerebral Hypoperfusion and Hyperperfusion in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Jeong Seong Ho , Kim Su Hong , Park Chan Wook , Lee Hye Sun , Lee Phil Hyu , Kim Yun Joong , Sohn Young H. , Jeong Yong , Chung Seok Jong
Published: July 2023

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) exhibit widespread brain perfusion changes.

Objective

This study investigated whether cerebral regions with hypoperfusion and hyperperfusion have differential effects on motor and cognitive symptoms in PD using early‐phase 18F‐N‐(3‐fluoropropyl)‐2β‐carboxymethoxy‐3β‐(4‐iodophenyl) nortropane (18F‐FP‐CIT) positron emission tomography (PET) scans.

Methods

We enrolled 394 patients with newly diagnosed PD who underwent dual‐phase 18F‐FP‐CIT PET scans. Indices reflecting associated changes in regional cerebral hypoperfusion and hyperperfusion on early‐phase 18F‐FP‐CIT PET scans were calculated as PD[hypo] and PD[hyper], respectively. The associations of PD[hypo] and PD[hyper] on motor and cognitive symptoms at baseline were assessed using multivariate linear regression. Also, Cox regression and linear mixed models were performed to investigate the effects of baseline PD[hypo] and PD[hyper] on longitudinal outcomes.

Results

There was a weak correlation between PD[hypo] and PD[hyper] (γ = −0.19, P < 0.001). PD[hypo] was associated with baseline Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III scores (β = −1.02, P = 0.045), rapid increases in dopaminergic medications (β = −18.02, P < 0.001), and a higher risk for developing freezing of gait (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.67, P = 0.019), whereas PD[hyper] was not associated. Regarding cognitive function, PD[hypo] was more relevant to the baseline cognitive performance levels of visuospatial, memory, and frontal/executive function than PD[hyper]. However, greater PD[hyper] was associated with future dementia conversion (HR = 1.43, P = 0.004), whereas PD[hypo] was not associated.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that PD[hypo] and PD[hyper] may differentially affect motor and cognitive functions in patients with PD. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Lesion detection with fine‐grained image categorization for myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Huang Xingru , He Shucheng , Wang Jun , Yang Shangchao , Wang Yaqi , Ye Xin
Published: July 2023

Background

Myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) are retinal disorder caused by traction force on the macula, which can lead to varying degrees of vision loss in eyes with high myopia. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an effective imaging technique for diagnosing, detecting and classifying retinopathy. MTM has been classified into different patterns by OCT, corresponding to different clinical strategies.

Purpose

We aimed to engineer a deep learning model that can automatically identify MTM in highly myopic (HM) eyes using OCT images.

Methods

A five‐class classification model was developed using 2837 OCT images from 958 HM patients. We adopted a ResNet‐34 architecture to train the model to identify MTM: no MTM (class 0), extra‐foveal maculoschisis (class 1), inner lamellar macular hole (class 2), outer foveoschisis (class 3), and discontinuity or detachment of foveal outer hyperreflective layers (class 4). An independent test set of 604 images from 173 HM patients was used to evaluate the model's performance. Classification performance was assessed according to the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity.

Results

Our model exhibited a high training performance for classification (F1‐score of 0.953; AUCs of 0.961 to 0.998). In test set, it achieved sensitivities (91.67%–97.78 %) and specificities (98.33%–99.17%) as good as, or better than, those of experienced clinicians. Heatmaps were generated to provide visual explanations.

Conclusions

We established a deep learning model for MTM classification using OCT images. This model performed equally well or better than retinal specialists and is suitable for large‐scale screening and identifying MTM in HM eyes.
Oxygen consumption of sexually mature adult, first-feeding larval, and yearling Pacific Lampreys
Authors: Moser Mary , Maine Alexa , Shonat Tristan , Jackson Aaron
Published: July 2023

Objective

The Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus is considered a first food of Native American tribes, such as the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Populations of this imperiled species have declined such that harvest for traditional use is limited. As a result, propagation and culture of Pacific Lampreys have been initiated to supply animals for restoration and recovery efforts. These efforts require transport and periodic holding of both adults and larvae under static (no-flow) conditions. Hence, guidelines for ensuring an adequate oxygen supply are needed for all life stages of this species.

Methods

We measured oxygen consumption rates of mature adults, first-feeding larvae, and yearlings under static conditions at 12–15°C. In addition, we recorded indicators of stress during hypoxia for adults and estimated routine respiration rates during and after larval feeding.

Result

Adults exhibited surprisingly high metabolic rates when at rest in static chambers. At 12°C, a single adult typically reduced dissolved oxygen levels in 10 L to <2 mg/L in just 90 min (oxygen consumption rates of 100–200 mg/kg/h). Adults often started to climb the walls of open chambers when dissolved oxygen levels approached 2 mg/L, allowing them to raise their branchiopores into air. Larvae remained quiescent, even when oxygen levels dropped below 1 mg/L, and costs of feeding increased routine respiration by 22–56%.

Conclusion

Based on these observations, we recommend that adult Pacific Lampreys always be transported in aerated containers and with access to air at the top of the tank. Although larvae exhibited hypoxia tolerance, care should be taken to ensure adequate oxygen availability, particularly during and immediately after feeding.
The single robot line coverage problem: Theory, algorithms, and experiments
Authors: Agarwal Saurav , Akella Srinivas
Published: July 2023

Line coverage is the task of servicing a given set of one‐dimensional features in an environment. It is important for the inspection of linear infrastructure such as road networks, power lines, and oil and gas pipelines. This paper addresses the single robot line coverage problem for aerial and ground robots by modeling it as an optimization problem on a graph. The problem belongs to the broad class of arc routing problems and is closely related to the rural postman problem (RPP) on asymmetric graphs. The paper presents an integer linear programming formulation with proofs of correctness. Using the minimum cost flow problem, we develop approximation algorithms with guarantees on the solution quality. These guarantees also improve the existing results for the asymmetric RPP. The main algorithm partitions the problem into three cases based on the structure of therequired graph, that is, the graph induced by the features that require servicing. We evaluate our algorithms on road networks from the 50 most populous cities in the world, consisting of up to 730 road segments. The algorithms, augmented with improvement heuristics, run within 3 s and generate solutions that are within 10% of the optimum. We experimentally demonstrate our algorithms with commercial UAVs on the UNC Charlotte campus road network.
Tightly anchoring bone‐like coating on the surface of titanium implants with complex three‐dimensional geometry through radical polymerization
Authors: Tang Sijie , Yan Honghan , Chen Genxin , Wang Huimin , Yang Changying , Ma Liya , Zeng Hao , Hu Yan , Ran Jiabing
Published: July 2023

Biological fixation of a Ti implant demonstrates significant advantages over conventional physical fixation. Modifying the surface of Ti implants with hydroxyapatite (HAp) coating has proven to be a promising strategy to enhance their bone integration capability in vivo. The currently reported strategies are confronted with the following problems: (i) low interfacial bonding strength and poor structural stability under mechanical force; (ii) being incapable of encapsulating Ti implants with complex 3D geometry; (iii) complicated processing procedures and high processing costs. Here, we fabricated a bone‐like polyacrylamide/poly(vinyl alcohol)/HAp (PAAm/PVA/HAp) coating on the surface of Ti implants with complex 3D geometry through thermal induced in situ radical polymerization of pre‐adhered vicious acrylamide/PVA/HAp (AAm/PVA/HAp) emulsion. Covalent interaction between the Ti matrix and the coating was constructed through incorporating vinyl groups on the surface of Ti matrix using 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TMSPMA). The as‐prepared coating demonstrated a record high shear bonding strength of 144.5 MPa and 75.50 MPa in dry and moist states, respectively. In addition, its interfacial toughness reached to 1.27 kJ/m2, while its maximum motion under shear mechanical force was only 0.64 mm (moist state). Anti‐fatigue tests (approximate 100% toughness retention rate at displacement of 0.1 mm) and degradation experiment exhibited the long‐term mechanical/structural stability of the coating in a in vivo environment. BMSCs co‐culture assay demonstrated the superior cytocompatibility and osteogenic property of the coating. In sum, this work provided a simple and cost‐effective strategy to construct homogeneous and tightly anchored HAp coating on the surface of Ti implants with complex 3D geometry.

Highlights

Homogeneous coating on Ti surface with bone‐like composition and structure.

Being capable of encapsulating Ti implants with complex 3D geometry.

Record high interfacial bonding strength/toughness.

long‐term structural/mechanical stability in a moist environment.

Superior biocompatibility and osteogenic property.