bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New proposal for skin grafts on tendon-exposed wounds
Authors: Um Jung Hwan , Jo Dong In , Kim Soon Heum
Published: January 2022

Performing a skin graft is not feasible for tendon-exposed defect reconstruction because tendons are fibrous connective tissues with relatively poor blood supply. This study proposes a method to effectively perform skin graft surgery in tendon-exposed wounds. A 48-year-old male patient with diabetes mellitus had a very large left dorsal foot defect (8×8 cm). The wound bed had healthy granular tissue, with tendon exposure. The tendons were turned over so that the posterior side would behave as the anterior side. The edge of the paratenon was then fixed together to the surrounding granulation tissue or dense remnant fascia using absorbable sutures, and the close granulation tissue was approximated and buried. A split-thickness skin graft was performed after 1 week. The graft site was stably taken on postoperative day 3. A small disruption was then observed at the graft site within 1 week postoperatively, but conservative treatment was continued for 1 month, after which the defect site was completely restored. This technique can increase the success rate of skin grafts for defects with tendon exposure.
Acellular dermal matrix and bone cement sandwich technique for chest wall reconstruction
Authors: Heo Chan Yeong , Kang Byungkwon , Jeong Jae Hoon , Kim Kwhanmien , Myung Yujin
Published: January 2022

The authors performed rigid reconstruction using the sandwich technique for full-thickness chest wall defects by using two layers of acellular dermal matrix and bone cement. We assessed six patients who underwent chest wall reconstruction. Reconstruction was performed by sandwiching bone cement between two layers of acellular dermal matrix. In all patients, there was no defect of the overlying soft tissue, and primary closure was performed for external wounds. The average follow-up period was 4 years (range, 2–8 years). No major complications were noted. The sandwich technique can serve as an efficient and safe option for chest wall reconstruction.
The superior lateral genicular artery flap for reconstruction of knee and proximal leg defects
Authors: Low O-Wern , Loh Tian Fu , Lee Hanjing , Yap Yan Lin , Lim Jane , Lim Thiam Chye , Nallathamby Vigneswaran
Published: January 2022

Reconstruction of defects around the knee region requires thin and pliable skin. The superior lateral genicular artery (SLGA) flap provides an excellent alternative to muscle-based flaps. The anatomy and the surgical techniques of the SLGA flap were reviewed and the results of cases using the SLGA flap for coverage of knee and proximal leg defects were analyzed. SLGA flaps were performed in two cases and followed up for at least 6 months. Twelve articles on the use of the SLGA flap were also identified. A review of 39 cases showed that the mean diameter of the perforator supplying the skin of the flap was 1.04 mm, while the mean diameter of the SLGA at its origin was 1.78 mm. The mean length of the pedicle measured from the origin of the popliteal artery was 7.44 cm. The average dimensions of the flap were 14.8×6.6 cm with primary closure of the donor site in 61.5% of cases. Of these cases, 38.5% were due to trauma, 23.1% were post-burn complications, 12.8% were defects after resection of tumors, and 10.3% were for ulcers post-bursectomy. The most common complication was flap tip necrosis. All studies reported favorable outcomes with complete wound healing.
Facial injury patterns associated with stand-up electric scooters in unhelmeted riders
Authors: Kim Hyeon Seok , Kim Woo Seob , Kim Han Koo , Kang Shin Hyuk , Bae Tae Hui
Published: January 2022

Background In recent years, the number of people riding stand-up electric scooters in South Korea has increased rapidly. This study analyzed the facial injury patterns associated with stand-up electric scooter-related trauma in patients who visited our emergency center.

Methods In this retrospective review, we collected data from patients who had visited our emergency center for stand-up electric scooter-related trauma between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2020.

Results The average age of the patients was 26.7 years. Of the 73 patients, 47 were male and 26 were female, highlighting a male predominance. Seven patients were injured after alcohol consumption. None of the patients had worn helmets. Additionally, upon comparing the frequency of facial injuries according to the quarter of the year, the facial injury rate was higher in the second and third quarters than in the first and fourth quarters. Facial soft tissue injuries were classified into facial cosmetic subunits and analyzed according to their location. The highest number of injuries was on the chin (n=18, 20.9%). Of the 73 patients with stand-up electric scooter-related facial injuries, 16 had acute facial osseous fractures. The commonest acute facial osseous fractures were those of the orbit (n=7, 26.9%).

Conclusions The patterns of facial trauma reported here can be helpful for quickly evaluating and treating patients with facial trauma related to stand-up electric scooters. Additionally, people riding stand-up electric scooters should be aware of the risks associated with facial trauma and the importance of wearing protective devices, such as helmets and masks.
Dye random laser enhanced by graphene-based Au nanoparticles
Authors: Shen Yan-Li , Shi Bing-Rong , Lü Hao , Zhang Shuai-Yi , Wang Xia ,   Shandong Advanced Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies Engineering Laboratory, Qingdao 266061, China,   School of Mathematics and Physics, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266061, China,   College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
Published: January 2022

The graphene and nanoparticles composites have novel optical and electrical properties. They are widely used in the fields of information sensing, photoelectric conversion and medical diagnosis. Graphene has excellent photoelectric properties and can regulate the random laser properties, but the current composite process of graphene with special structures and metal nanostructures is complicated. Thus, there is still a challenge to effectively reducing the threshold of random laser by using graphene. In this work, the Au/graphene structure is prepared by convenient chemical reduction and adsorption method, and the dye DCJTB is used as the gain medium to form the film by spin coating. The random laser properties of Au nanoparticles and Au/graphene structure are studied, and the mechanism of graphene is analyzed. The results show that the transmission peak of Au/graphene composite is near the photoluminescence peak of gain medium, which promotes the energy level transition of dye molecules. With the addition of graphene into the same gain medium, the scattering frequency of photons in the disordered medium increases, resulting in the enhancement of surface plasmon resonance. The scattering effect and the surface plasmon resonance effect cooperate with each other, showing good random laser threshold, which is reduced from 3.4 μJ/mm2 to 2.8 μJ/mm2. Repeatability and high quality of maser are obtained by repetitively measuring the same sample, showing that the lasing sample has good repeatability and high quality. This study plays a certain role in promoting the application of random laser and realizing the high-performance optoelectronic devices.
The imprinted Zdbf2 gene finely tunes control of feeding and growth in neonates
Authors: Glaser Juliane , Iranzo Julian , Borensztein Maud , Marinucci Mattia , Gualtieri Angelica , Jouhanneau Colin , Teissandier Aurélie , Gaston-Massuet Carles , Bourc'his Deborah
Published: January 2022

Genomic imprinting refers to the mono-allelic and parent-specific expression of a subset of genes. While long recognized for their role in embryonic development, imprinted genes have recently emerged as important modulators of postnatal physiology, notably through hypothalamus-driven functions. Here, using mouse models of loss, gain and parental inversion of expression, we report that the paternally expressed Zdbf2 gene controls neonatal growth in mice, in a dose-sensitive but parent-of-origin-independent manner. We further found that Zdbf2-KO neonates failed to fully activate hypothalamic circuits that stimulate appetite, and suffered milk deprivation and diminished circulating Insulin Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). Consequently, only half of Zdbf2-KO pups survived the first days after birth and those surviving were smaller. This study demonstrates that precise imprinted gene dosage is essential for vital physiological functions at the transition from intra- to extra-uterine life, here the adaptation to oral feeding and optimized body weight gain.
SNX9-induced membrane tubulation regulates CD28 cluster stability and signalling
Authors: Ecker Manuela , Schregle Richard , Kapoor-Kaushik Natasha , Rossatti Pascal , Betzler Verena M , Kempe Daryan , Biro Maté , Ariotti Nicholas , Redpath Gregory MI , Rossy Jeremie
Published: January 2022

T cell activation requires engagement of a cognate antigen by the T cell receptor (TCR) and the co-stimulatory signal of CD28. Both TCR and CD28 aggregate into clusters at the plasma membrane of activated T cells. While the role of TCR clustering in T cell activation has been extensively investigated, little is known about how CD28 clustering contributes to CD28 signalling. Here, we report that upon CD28 triggering, the BAR-domain protein sorting nexin 9 (SNX9) is recruited to CD28 clusters at the immunological synapse. Using three-dimensional correlative light and electron microscopy, we show that SNX9 generates membrane tubulation out of CD28 clusters. Our data further reveal that CD28 clusters are in fact dynamic structures and that SNX9 regulates their stability as well as CD28 phosphorylation and the resulting production of the cytokine IL-2. In summary, our work suggests a model in which SNX9-mediated tubulation generates a membrane environment that promotes CD28 triggering and downstream signalling events.
Native proline-rich motifs exploit sequence context to target actin-remodeling Ena/VASP protein ENAH
Authors: Hwang Theresa , Parker Sara S , Hill Samantha M , Grant Robert A , Ilunga Meucci W , Sivaraman Venkatesh , Mouneimne Ghassan , Keating Amy E
Published: January 2022

The human proteome is replete with short linear motifs (SLiMs) of four to six residues that are critical for protein-protein interactions, yet the importance of the sequence surrounding such motifs is underexplored. We devised a proteomic screen to examine the influence of SLiM sequence context on protein-protein interactions. Focusing on the EVH1 domain of human ENAH, an actin regulator that is highly expressed in invasive cancers, we screened 36-residue proteome-derived peptides and discovered new interaction partners of ENAH and diverse mechanisms by which context influences binding. A pocket on the ENAH EVH1 domain that has diverged from other Ena/VASP paralogs recognizes extended SLiMs and favors motif-flanking proline residues. Many high-affinity ENAH binders that contain two proline-rich SLiMs use a noncanonical site on the EVH1 domain for binding and display a thermodynamic signature consistent with the two-motif chain engaging a single domain. We also found that photoreceptor cilium actin regulator (PCARE) uses an extended 23-residue region to obtain a higher affinity than any known ENAH EVH1-binding motif. Our screen provides a way to uncover the effects of proteomic context on motif-mediated binding, revealing diverse mechanisms of control over EVH1 interactions and establishing that SLiMs can’t be fully understood outside of their native context.
Judgments of agency are affected by sensory noise without recruiting metacognitive processing
Authors: Constant Marika , Salomon Roy , Filevich Elisa
Published: January 2022

Acting in the world is accompanied by a sense of agency, or experience of control over our actions and their outcomes. As humans, we can report on this experience through judgments of agency. These judgments often occur under noisy conditions. We examined the computations underlying judgments of agency, in particular under the influence of sensory noise. Building on previous literature, we studied whether judgments of agency incorporate uncertainty in the same way that confidence judgments do, which would imply that the former share computational mechanisms with metacognitive judgments. In two tasks, participants rated agency, or confidence in a decision about their agency, over a virtual hand that tracked their movements, either synchronously or with a delay and either under high or low noise. We compared the predictions of two computational models to participants’ ratings and found that agency ratings, unlike confidence, were best explained by a model involving no estimates of sensory noise. We propose that agency judgments reflect first-order measures of the internal signal, without involving metacognitive computations, challenging the assumed link between the two cognitive processes.
Absolute quantitation of individual SARS-CoV-2 RNA molecules provides a new paradigm for infection dynamics and variant differences
Authors: Lee Jeffrey Y , Wing Peter AC , Gala Dalia S , Noerenberg Marko , Järvelin Aino I , Titlow Joshua , Zhuang Xiaodong , Palmalux Natasha , Iselin Louisa , Thompson Mary Kay , Parton Richard M , Prange-Barczynska Maria , Wainman Alan , Salguero Francisco J , Bishop Tammie , Agranoff Daniel , James William , Castello Alfredo , McKeating Jane A , Davis Ilan
Published: January 2022

Despite an unprecedented global research effort on SARS-CoV-2, early replication events remain poorly understood. Given the clinical importance of emergent viral variants with increased transmission, there is an urgent need to understand the early stages of viral replication and transcription. We used single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridisation (smFISH) to quantify positive sense RNA genomes with 95% detection efficiency, while simultaneously visualising negative sense genomes, subgenomic RNAs, and viral proteins. Our absolute quantification of viral RNAs and replication factories revealed that SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA is long-lived after entry, suggesting that it avoids degradation by cellular nucleases. Moreover, we observed that SARS-CoV-2 replication is highly variable between cells, with only a small cell population displaying high burden of viral RNA. Unexpectedly, the B.1.1.7 variant, first identified in the UK, exhibits significantly slower replication kinetics than the Victoria strain, suggesting a novel mechanism contributing to its higher transmissibility with important clinical implications.
Rapacious Regimes
Authors: Pempel T. J.
Published: January 2022

This chapter analyzes a third distinct assemblage, namely East Asia's rapacious regimes, most conspicuously the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Myanmar, and the Philippines under Ferdinand Marcos. These three stand as antitransformational contrasts that pose the question of why, despite enjoying among the best “objective” conditions for economic success in the 1950s and 1960s, these three languished for decades while neighboring countries raced ahead. Strong as the rip tide of the Asian economic miracle was, it stirred little more than limp ripples in several of the region's backwaters. Rather than floating along with the regional tide, regimes in these countries swam against the current, rejecting economic transformation while exploiting their populations rather than improving their lot. Understanding the regional mix behind such rejection reflects valuable light back on the regime arrangements supporting regional successes.
DNN-based multi-output model for predicting soccer team tactics
Authors: Lee Geon Ju , Jung Jason J.
Published: January 2022

In modern sports, strategy and tactics are important in determining the game outcome. However, many coaches still base their game tactics on experience and intuition. The aim of this study is to predict tactics such as formations, game styles, and game outcome based on soccer dataset. In this paper, we propose to use Deep Neural Networks (DNN) based on Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) and feature engineering to predict the soccer tactics of teams. Previous works adopt simple machine learning techniques, such as Support Vector Machine (SVM) and decision tree, to analyze soccer dataset. However, these often have limitations in predicting tactics using soccer dataset. In this study, we use feature selection, clustering techniques for the segmented positions and Multi-Output model for Soccer (MOS) based on DNN, wide inputs and residual connections. Feature selection selects important features among features of soccer player dataset. Each position is segmented by applying clustering to the selected features. The segmented positions and game appearance dataset are used as training dataset for the proposed model. Our model predicts the core of soccer tactics: formation, game style and game outcome. And, we use wide inputs and embedding layers to learn sparse, specific rules of soccer dataset, and use residual connections to learn additional information. MLP layers help the model to generalize features of soccer dataset. Experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed model, which obtain significant improvements comparing to baseline models.
Autophagy inhibits cancer stemness in triple‐negative breast cancer via miR‐181a‐mediated regulation of ATG5 and/or ATG2B
Authors: Park Jee Won , Kim Yesol , Lee Soo‐been , Oh Chae Won , Lee Eun Ji , Ko Je Yeong , Park Jong Hoon
Published: January 2022

Autophagy has a dual role in the maintenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs), but the precise relationship between autophagy and cancer stemness requires further investigation. In this study, it was found that luminal and triple‐negative breast cancers require distinct therapeutic approaches because of their different amounts of autophagy flux. We identified that autophagy flux was inhibited in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) CSCs. Moreover, miRNA‐181a (miR‐181a) expression is upregulated in both TNBC CSCs and patient tissues. Autophagy‐related 5 (ATG5) and autophagy‐related 2B (ATG2B) participate in the early formation of autophagosomes and were revealed as targets of miR‐181a. Inhibition of miR‐181a expression led to attenuation of TNBC stemness and an increase in autophagy flux. Furthermore, treatment with curcumin led to attenuation of cancer stemness in TNBC CSCs; the expression of ATG5 and ATG2B was enhanced and there was an increase of autophagy flux. These results indicated that ATG5 and ATG2B are involved in the suppression of cancer stemness in TNBC. In summary, autophagy inhibits cancer stemness through the miR‐181a‐regulated mechanism in TNBC. Promoting tumor‐suppressive autophagy using curcumin may be a potential method for the treatment of TNBC.
Multiscale Anisotropic Tissue Biofabrication via Bulk Acoustic Patterning of Cells and Functional Additives in Hybrid Bioinks
Authors: Chansoria Parth , Asif Suleman , Gupta Nithin , Piedrahita Jorge , Shirwaiker Rohan A.
Published: January 2022

Recapitulation of the microstructural organization of cellular and extracellular components found in natural tissues is an important but challenging feat for tissue engineering, which demands innovation across both process and material fronts. In this work, a highly versatile ultrasound‐assisted biofabrication (UAB) approach is demonstrated that utilizes radiation forces generated by superimposing ultrasonic bulk acoustic waves to rapidly organize arrays of cells and other biomaterial additives within single and multilayered hydrogel constructs. UAB is used in conjunction with a novel hybrid bioink system, comprising of cartilage‐forming cells (human adipose‐derived stem cells or chondrocytes) and additives to promote cell adhesion (collagen microaggregates or polycaprolactone microfibers) encapsulated within gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels, to fabricate cartilaginous tissue constructs featuring bulk anisotropy. The hybrid matrices fabricated under the appropriate synergistic thermo‐reversible and photocrosslinking conditions demonstrate enhanced mechanical stiffness, stretchability, strength, construct shape fidelity and aligned encapsulated cell morphology and collagen II secretion in long‐term culture. Hybridization of UAB is also shown with extrusion and stereolithography printing to fabricate constructs featuring 3D perfusable channels for vasculature combined with a crisscross or circumferential organization of cells and adhesive bioadditives, which is relevant for further translation of UAB toward complex physiological‐scale biomimetic tissue fabrication.
MXenes for Energy Harvesting
Authors: Wang Yizhou , Guo Tianchao , Tian Zhengnan , Bibi Khadija , Zhang Yi‐Zhou , Alshareef Husam N.
Published: January 2022

Energy harvesting modules play an increasingly important role in the development of autonomous self‐powered microelectronic devices. MXenes (i.e., 2D transition metal carbide/nitride) have recently emerged as promising candidates for energy applications due to their excellent electronic conductivity, large specific surface area, and tunable properties. Herein, a perspective on using MXenes to harvest energy from various sources in the environment is presented. First, the characteristics of MXenes that facilitate energy capturing are systematically introduced and the preparation strategies of MXenes and their derived nanostructures tailored toward such applications are summarized. Subsequently, the harvesting mechanism of different energy sources (e.g., solar energy, thermoelectric energy, triboelectric energy, piezoelectric energy, salinity‐gradient energy, electrokinetic energy, ultrasound energy, and humidity energy) are discussed. Then, the recent progress of MXene‐based nanostructures in energy harvesting, as well as their applications, is introduced. Finally, opinions on the existing challenges and future directions of MXene‐based nanostructure for energy harvesting are presented.
Modulating the aggregation of amyloid proteins by macrocycles
Authors: Li Gao , Li Yan‐Mei
Published: January 2022

The aggregation of amyloid proteins has been suggested to be the main cause of multiple human disorders; for example, amyloid β aggregates in Alzheimer's disease and α‐synuclein aggregates in Parkinson's disease. In the search for therapeutic medicines, many molecules have been discovered and developed to modulate the aggregation of amyloid proteins. This century has witnessed the flourishing growth of supramolecular chemistry, and some biocompatible macrocycles have been proven to inhibit the aggregation of some amyloid proteins via host‐guest interactions and could thus be used for the prevention or treatment of related diseases. Here, we review the application of macrocycles in modulating the aggregation of amyloid proteins.
Design space description through adaptive sampling and symbolic computation
Authors: Zhao Fei , Grossmann Ignacio E. , García‐Muñoz Salvador , Stamatis Stephen D.
Published: January 2022

Design space definition is one of the key parts in pharmaceutical research and development. In this article, we propose a novel solution strategy to explicitly describe the design space without recourse decisions. First, to smooth the boundary, the Kreisselmeier–Steinhauser (KS) function is applied to aggregate all inequality constraints. Next, for creating a surrogate polynomial model of the KS function, we focus on finding sampling points on the boundary of KS space. After performing Latin hypercube sampling (LHS), two methods are presented to efficiently expand the boundary points, that is, line projection to the boundary through any two feasible LHS points and perturbation around the adaptive sampling points. Finally, a symbolic computation method, cylindrical algebraic decomposition, is applied to transform the surrogate model into a series of explicit and triangular subsystems, which can be converted to describe the KS space. Two case studies show the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and vascular liver disease: Eculizumab therapy decreases mortality and thrombotic complications
Authors: Plessier Aurélie , Esposito‐Farèse Marina , Baiges Anna , Shukla Akash , Garcia Pagan Juan Carlos , De Raucourt Emmanuelle , Ollivier‐Hourmand Isabelle , Cervoni Jean‐Paul , De Ledinghen Victor , Tazi Zoubida , Nousbaum Jean‐Baptiste , Bun René , Bureau Christophe , Silvain Christine , Tournilhac Olivier , Gerfaud‐Valentin Mathieu , Durand François , Goria Odile , Tellez Luis , Albillos Agustin , Gioia Stefania , Riggio Oliviero , De Gottardi Andrea , Payance Audrey , Rautou Pierre‐Emmanuel , Terriou Louis , Charbonnier Aude , Elkrief Laure , de la Tour Regis Peffault , Valla Dominique‐Charles , Gault Nathalie , de Fontbrune Flore Sicre
Published: January 2022

A total of 2%–10% of patients with vascular liver disease (VLD) have paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Eculizumab reduces complement‐mediated haemolytic activity in PNH. This study was aimed at assessing the impact of eculizumab on VLD outcome. Retrospective cohort of PNH patients, in Valdig registry, who had VLD diagnosed between 1997 and 2019 is considered. Eculizumab was the exposure of interest. Studied outcomes were death, venous thrombosis, bleeding, arterial ischemic event, infection, and liver‐related complications. We compared survival and new thrombotic events from PNH/VLD cohort to Envie2 non‐PNH cohort. Sixty‐two patients (33 women), median age 35 years (28–48) and median follow‐up VLD diagnosis 4.7 years (1.2–9.5), were included. Clone size was 80% (70–90), median hemoglobin concentration was 10.0 g/dl (8–11), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was 736 IU (482–1744). Forty‐two patients (68%) had eculizumab; median exposure time was 40.1 [9.3–72.6] months. Mortality was significantly lower in exposed versus nonexposed period: 2.6 versus 8.7 per 100 (PY), incidence rate ratio (IRR) was 0.29, 95% CI (0.1–0.9), p = .035. Thrombosis recurrence occurred less frequently during the exposure to eculizumab: 0.5 versus 2.8 per 100 PY, IRR 0.22 (0.07–0.64). Other secondary end points (i.e., bleeding, arterial ischemic lesions, infection, and liver complications) were less common during the exposure to eculizumab, although not reaching statistical significance. Six‐year thrombosis‐free survival was 70%, 95% CI [0.60–0.83] for PNH cohort and 83%, 95% CI [0.70–1.00] for non‐PNH Envie 2 patients, (p < .001). In conclusion, patients with PNH and VLD are at higher risk of recurrent thrombosis than non‐PNH patients. Eculizumab is significantly associated with a lower mortality and less thrombotic recurrence in patients with PNH and VLD.
Severe asthma and death in a worker using methylene diphenyl diisocyanate MDI asthma death
Authors: Wisnewski Adam V. , Cooney Ryan , Hodgson Michael , Giese Kristinza , Liu Jian , Redlich Carrie A.
Published: January 2022

Diisocyanates are well‐recognized to cause occupational asthma, yet diisocyanate asthma can be challenging to diagnose and differentiate from asthma induced by other allergens. The present study assesses the potential contribution of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) to a workplace fatality. Examination of medical records, tissue, and blood from the deceased worker were undertaken. Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded lung tissue sections were assessed through histologic and immunochemical stains. Serum MDI‐specific IgE and IgG, and total IgE, were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and/or Western blot. Information about potential chemical exposures and industrial processes in the workplace were provided by the employer and through interviews with co‐workers. Review of the worker's medical records, occupational history, and autopsy findings were consistent with severe asthma as the cause of death, and ruled out cardiac disease, pulmonary embolism, or stroke. Lung pathology revealed hallmarks of asthma including smooth muscle hypertrophy, eosinophilia, basement membrane thickening, and mucus plugging of bronchioles. Immunochemical staining for MDI was positive in the thickened basement membrane of inflamed airways. MDI‐specific serum IgE and IgG were significantly elevated and demonstrated specificity for MDI versus other diisocyanates, however, total serum IgE was normal (24 IU/ml). The workplace had recently introduced MDI into the foundry as part of a new process, but MDI air levels had not been measured. Respirators were not required. In summary, post‐mortem findings support the diagnosis of diisocyanate asthma and a severe asthma attack at work as the cause of death in a foundry worker.
Asymmetric Cyclopropanation and Epoxidation via a Catalytically Formed Chiral Auxiliary
Authors: Puriņš Mikus , Waser Jerome
Published: January 2022

For the enantioselective diversification of a single starting material, a different chiral catalyst is usually required for each transformation. Herein, we extend the concept of catalytically formed chiral auxiliary from hydrogenation to the asymmetric cyclopropanation and epoxidation of tetra‐substituted olefins, alleviating the need for different chiral catalysts in the alkene functionalization step. The chiral auxiliary is catalytically constructed from propargylic amines in a Pd‐catalyzed enantioselective carboetherification step using a commercially available trifluoroacetaldehyde hemiacetal tether. The installed auxiliary is then controlling the stereochemistry of the cyclopropanation and the epoxidation using standard highly reactive reagents to give enantioenriched spirocyclic aminomethylcyclopropanols and α‐amino‐α‐hydroxy ketones.
Electrochemical Fluorination of Vinyl Boronates through Donor‐Stabilized Vinyl Carbocation Intermediates**
Authors: Wigman Benjamin , Lee Woojin , Wei Wenjing , Houk Kendall N. , Nelson Hosea M.
Published: January 2022

The electrochemical generation of vinyl carbocations from alkenyl boronic esters and boronates is reported. Using easy‐to‐handle nucleophilic fluoride reagents, these intermediates are trapped to form fully substituted vinyl fluorides. Mechanistic studies support the formation of dicoordinated carbocations through sequential single‐electron oxidation events. Notably, this electrochemical fluorination features fast reaction times and Lewis acid‐free conditions. This transformation provides a complementary method to access vinyl fluorides with simple fluoride salts such as TBAF.
An Efficient Rechargeable Aluminium–Amine Battery Working Under Quaternization Chemistry
Authors: Wang Gang , Dmitrieva Evgenia , Kohn Benjamin , Scheler Ulrich , Liu Yannan , Tkachova Valeriya , Yang Lin , Fu Yubin , Ma Ji , Zhang Panpan , Wang Faxing , Ge Jin , Feng Xinliang
Published: January 2022

Rechargeable aluminium (Al) batteries (RABs) have long‐been pursued due to the high sustainability and three‐electron‐transfer properties of Al metal. However, limited redox chemistry is available for rechargeable Al batteries, which restricts the exploration of cathode materials. Herein, we demonstrate an efficient Al–amine battery based on a quaternization reaction, in which nitrogen (radical) cations (R3N.+ or R4N+) are formed to store the anionic Al complex. The reactive aromatic amine molecules further oligomerize during cycling, inhibiting amine dissolution into the electrolyte. Consequently, the constructed Al–amine battery exhibits a high reversible capacity of 135 mAh g−1 along with a superior cycling life (4000 cycles), fast charge capability and a high energy efficiency of 94.2 %. Moreover, the Al–amine battery shows excellent stability against self‐discharge, far beyond conventional Al–graphite batteries. Our findings pave an avenue to advance the chemistry of RABs and thus battery performance.
Catalytic Enantioconvergent Allenylation of Aldehydes with Propargyl Halides
Authors: Zhang Feng‐Hua , Guo Xiaochong , Zeng Xianrong , Wang Zhaobin
Published: January 2022

α‐Allenol is a versatile synthon in organic synthesis. The catalytic asymmetric synthesis of α‐allenols from readily available starting materials remains a prominent challenge, especially when simultaneous control over axial and central chirality is required. Herein, we describe the Cr‐catalyzed enantioconvergent allenylation of aldehydes with racemic propargyl halides to rapidly access a wide range of chiral α‐allenols with adjacent axial and central chiralities. This method features excellent regio‐, diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity control with broad substrate scope, and provides facile access to all four stereoisomers when allied with a Mitsunobu reaction. Preliminary mechanistic studies support radical‐based reaction pathways. The synthetic utility is demonstrated by the application in late‐stage functionalization and the formal total synthesis of (+)‐varitriol.
Identification of organophosphate modifications by high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Lee Jun Hyung , Jang Wooyoung Eric , Park Ji Hwan , Mohammad Hazara Begum , Lee Jin‐Young , Jeong Woo‐Hyeon , Kim Min‐Sik
Published: January 2022

Organophosphate (OP) compounds exhibit neurotoxicity by binding to serine residues of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the cholinergic nervous system and subsequently lead to the accumulation of acetylcholine in neuromuscular junctions of synapses. AChE capable of hydrolyzing choline esters is known to be inhibited in patients with nerve agents poisoning. Since OP is known to be transported by covalent bonding to human serum albumin (HSA), OP‐HSA adducts are considered potential diagnostic markers for OP exposures. In this study, HSA modification sites by OP or OP‐like compounds such as V‐type (VX) and Novichok‐type (A234), insecticide (DFP), and serine protease inhibitor (PMSF) were studied using liquid chromatography‐high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry. As a result, we have discovered a novel OP‐HSA modification site, Y341.
Development of a bioanalytical method for the quantification of sinococuline in human plasma and its application in phase I clinical pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Bhadaliya Chetan , Panigrahy Bala Krishna , Goswami Dipanjan , Maiti Sovan , Gurule Sanjay Jagannath , Khuroo Arshad H.
Published: January 2022

A selective, highly sensitive, precise, and novel bioanalytical method has been developed and validated to quantify sinococuline, an active constituent present in the phytopharmaceutical drug product containing Cocculus hirsutus plant extract, in vivo. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Luna Omega Polar‐C18 bonded analytical column maintained at 45°C. The isocratic mobile phase consisted of methanol and ammonium formate buffer (60:40, v/v) at acidic pH with a low flow rate of 0.250 mL/min. Detection was performed on an API 4000 mass spectrometer using electrospray ionization in positive polarity and multiple reaction monitoring mode to achieve a lower limit of quantification of 1.50 ng/mL. Excellent accuracy and precision were obtained after extracting the analyte from plasma samples using a chemical analogue as an internal standard in the absence of an isotope‐labeled compound. The extraction efficacy was evidenced from recovery study, and the analyte was found to be stable in plasma. Validation study demonstrated linearity with coefficient of correlation, r ≥ 0.99, and minimal matrix effect. This bioanalytical method was successfully applied to evaluate pharmacokinetic parameters of sinococuline from a phase I clinical trial of an aqueous extract of C. hirsutus in healthy human volunteers.
Modulating intrinsic functional connectivity with visual cortex using low‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Rafique Sara A. , Steeves Jennifer K. E.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Intrinsic network connectivity becomes altered in pathophysiology. Noninvasive brain stimulation can modulate pathological functional networks in an attempt to restore the inherent response. To determine its usefulness for visual‐related disorders, we developed procedures investigating repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) protocols targeting the visual cortex on modulating connectivity associated with the visual network and default mode network (DMN).

Methods

We compared two low‐frequency (1 Hz) rTMS protocols to the visual cortex (V1)—a single 20 min session and five successive 20 min sessions (accelerated/within‐session rTMS)—using multi‐echo resting‐state functional magnetic resonance whole‐brain imaging and resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC). We also explored the relationship between rsFC and rTMS‐induced changes in key inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters, γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. GABA (GABA+) and glutamate (Glx) concentrations were measured in vivo using magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

Acute disruption with a single rTMS session caused widespread connectivity reconfiguration with nodes of interest. Changes were not evident immediately post‐rTMS but were observed at 1 h post‐rTMS. Accelerated sessions resulted in weak alterations in connectivity, producing a relatively homeostatic response. Changes in GABA+ and Glx concentrations with network connectivity were dependent on the rTMS protocol.

Conclusions

This proof‐of‐concept study offers new perspectives to assess stimulation‐induced neural processes involved in intrinsic functional connectivity and the potential for rTMS to modulate nodes interconnected with the visual cortex. The differential effects of single‐session and accelerated rTMS on physiological markers are crucial for furthering the advancement of treatment modalities in visual cortex related disorders.
How does green intellectual capital boost performance? The mediating role of environmental performance measurement systems
Authors: Asiaei Kaveh , Jusoh Ruzita , Barani Omid , Asiaei Arash
Published: January 2022

This paper draws on the newly developed notion of “natural resource orchestration” to propose and test a framework that shows how the use of environmental performance measurement systems mobilizes green intellectual capital to influence organizational performance. More precisely, this study examines to what extent companies place emphasis on the use of environmental performance measurement to translate green intellectual capital into enhanced organizational performance in terms of both economic and environmental performance. Based on a survey of 105 Iranian public listed companies, the results show that two elements of green intellectual capital, namely, green human capital and green structural capital are positively associated with both environmental performance measurement use and environmental performance. In contrast, green relational capital affects environmental performance only in the presence of environmental performance measurement as a mediating variable. By embedding the resource orchestration theory in the management accounting and intellectual capital settings, this study contributes to the existing literature and sheds light on the issue of how companies need to synchronize their green resources with proper organizational control systems to reap the maximum benefits of those green strategic resources.
Retinal ganglion cells expressing CaM kinase II in human and nonhuman primates
Authors: Baldicano Alyssa K. , Nasir‐Ahmad Subha , Novelli Mario , Lee Sammy C.S. , Do Michael Tri H. , Martin Paul R. , Grünert Ulrike
Published: January 2022

Immunoreactivity for calcium‐/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in the primate dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) has been attributed to geniculocortical relay neurons and has also been suggested to arise from terminals of retinal ganglion cells. Here, we combined immunostaining with single‐cell injections to investigate the expression of CaMKII in retinal ganglion cells of three primate species: macaque (Macaca fascicularis, M. nemestrina), human, and marmoset (Callithrix jacchus). We found that in all species, about 2%–10% of the total ganglion cell population expressed CaMKII. In all species, CaMKII was expressed by multiple types of wide‐field ganglion cell including large sparse, giant sparse (melanopsin‐expressing), broad thorny, and narrow thorny cells. Three other ganglion cells types, namely, inner and outer stratifying maze cells in macaque and tufted cells in marmoset were also found. Double labeling experiments showed that CaMKII‐expressing cells included inner and outer stratifying melanopsin cells. Nearly all CaMKII‐expressing ganglion cell types identified here are known to project to the koniocellular layers of the dLGN as well as to the superior colliculus. The best characterized koniocellular projecting cell type—the small bistratified (blue ON/yellow OFF) cell—was, however, not CaMKII‐positive in any species. Our results indicate that the pattern of CaMKII expression in retinal ganglion cells is largely conserved across different species of primate suggesting a common functional role. But the results also show that CaMKII is not a marker for all koniocellular projecting retinal ganglion cells.
Isolation of Extracellular Vesicles from Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Angela , He Baoye , Jin Hailing
Published: January 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) in plants have emerged as key players in cell‐to‐cell communication and cross‐kingdom RNAi between plants and pathogens by facilitating the exchange of RNA, proteins, and other molecules. In addition to their role in intercellular communication, plant EVs also show promise as potential therapeutics and indicators of plant health. However, plant EVs exhibit significant heterogeneity in their protein markers, size, and biogenesis pathways, strongly influencing their composition and functionality. While mammalian EVs can be generally classified as exosomes that are derived from multivesicular bodies (MVBs), microvesicles that are shed from the plasma membrane, or as apoptotic bodies that originate from cells undergoing apoptosis, plant EVs remain poorly studied in comparison. At least three subclasses of EVs have been identified in Arabidopsis leaves to date, including Tetraspanin‐positive exosomes derived from MVBs, Penetration 1 (PEN1)‐positive EVs, and EVs derived from exocyst‐positive organelles (EXPO). Differences in the plant starting material and isolation techniques have resulted in different purities, quality, and compositions of the resulting EVs, complicating efforts to better understand the role of these EVs in plants. We performed a comparative analysis on commonly used plant EV isolation methods and have identified an effective protocol for extracting clean apoplastic washing fluid (AWF) and isolating high‐quality intact and pure EVs of Arabidopsis thaliana. These EVs can then be used for various applications or studied to assess their cargos and functionality in plants. Furthermore, this process can be easily adapted to other plant species of interest. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation of EVs from the apoplastic fluid of Arabidopsis thaliana

Basic Protocol 2: Density gradient fractionation of EVs

Basic Protocol 3: Immuno‐isolation of EVs using Arabidopsis tetraspanin 8 (TET8) antibody
Coffea arabica rootstock resistant to Meloidogyne paranaensis nematodes
Authors: Azevedo Lillian Magalhães , Andrade Francisco Hélio Alves de , Acosta Lermen Forigua , Santos Jacqueline Oliveira dos , Pacheco Paulo Victor Magalhães , Marchiori Paulo Eduardo Ribeiro , Castro Evaristo Mauro de , Carvalho Gladyston Rodrigues , Salgado Sônia Maria de Lima , Silva Vânia Aparecida
Published: January 2022

Meloidogyne paranaensis is a species of root‐knot nematode that affects coffee (Coffea arabica L.) tree growth by causing severe damages to the plant root. This study evaluated the agronomic performance of Coffea arabica progenies in an M. paranaensis‐infested field and assessed the compatibility of resistant C. arabica genotype 28‐I‐4 (GEN28) as rootstock for susceptible cultivars. Experiment 1: under field conditions, six progenies were analyzed; the controls were ‘IPR100’ as resistant and ‘Catuaí Vermelho IAC 144’ (CtV144) as susceptible. Experiment 2: under greenhouse conditions, combinations of grafts and rootstocks between susceptible CtV144 and GEN28 were evaluated regarding their resistance to M. paranaensis alongside their noninoculated counterparts. For this, M. paranaensis reproduction factor (RF), total population of the nematode per gram of root system, growth parameters, gas exchange, and water potential (ψpd) were evaluated. In Experiment 1, resistant C. arabica progenies were more vigorous, productive, and showed a population of M. paranaensis threefold‐times lower than that observed in roots of susceptible CtV144. Among the resistant progenies selected in the field experiment, GEN28 was chosen for physiological compatibility study with the traditional cultivar CtV144. In Experiment 2, the CtV144 grafted onto GEN28 led to resistance to M. paranaensis, as well as a higher leaf area and ψpd as compared with nongrafted CtV144. Therefore, the GEN28 holds suitable characteristics to be used as a new Coffea arabica rootstock applied to production of resistant seedlings to Meloidogyne paranaensis nematodes. This technology represents an alternative to keep up coffee activity in infested areas.
Large‐scale, multidecade monitoring data from kelp forest ecosystems in California and Oregon (USA)
Authors: Malone Daniel P. , Davis Kathryn , Lonhart Steve I. , Parsons‐Field Avrey , Caselle Jennifer E. , Carr Mark H.
Published: January 2022

Kelp forests are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. In combination with their close proximity to the shore, the productivity and biodiversity of these ecosystems generate a wide range of ecosystem services including supporting (e.g., primary production, habitat), regulating (e.g., water flow, coastal erosion), provisioning (e.g., commercial and recreational fisheries), and cultural (e.g., recreational, artisanal) services. For these reasons, kelp forests have long been the target of ecological studies. However, with few exceptions, these studies have been localized and short term (<5 years). In 1999, recognizing the importance of large‐scale, long‐term studies for understanding the structure, functioning, and dynamics of coastal marine ecosystems, and for informing policy, the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO) designed and initiated a large‐scale, long‐term monitoring study of kelp forest ecosystems along 1400 km of coast stretching from southern California to southern Oregon, USA. The purpose of the study has been to characterize the spatial and temporal patterns of kelp forest ecosystem structure and evaluate the relative contributions of biological and environmental variables derived from external sources (e.g., sea otter density, Chl‐a concentration, sea surface temperature, wave energy) in explaining observed spatial and temporal patterns. For this purpose, the ecological community (i.e., density, percent cover, or biomass of conspicuous fishes, invertebrates, and macroalgae) and geomorphological attributes (bottom depth, substratum type, and vertical relief) of kelp forest ecosystems have been surveyed annually using SCUBA divers trained in both scientific diving and data collection techniques and the identification of kelp forest species. The study region spans distinct ecological and biogeographic provinces, which enables investigations of how variation in environmental drivers and distinctive species compositions influence community structure, and its response to climate‐related environmental change across a portion of the California Current Large Marine Ecosystem. These data have been used to inform fisheries management, design and evaluate California's state‐wide network of marine protected areas (MPAs), and assess the ecological consequences of climate change (e.g., marine heatwaves). Over time, the spatial and temporal design of the monitoring program was adapted to fill its role in evaluating the ecological responses to the establishment of MPAs. There are no copyright restrictions; please cite this paper when data are used.