bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rod bipolar cells receive cone photoreceptor inputs through both invaginating synapses and flat contacts in the mouse and guinea pig retinas
Authors: Xiao Jiayi , Wang Fenglan , Yang Qingwen , Zhong Wenhui , Zang Keduo , Tan Hang , Lin Xin , Rao Bilin , Gao Meiling , Zhang Jun
Published: April 2023

The light pathways are segregated into rod and cone pathways in which rods synapse with rod bipolar cells (RBCs), while cones contact cone bipolar cells (CBCs). However, previous studies found that cones can make synapse with RBCs (cone–RBC synapses) and rods can contact OFF CBC in primate and rabbit retinas. Recently, such cone–RBC synapses have been reported physiologically and morphologically in the mouse retina. Nevertheless, the precise subcellular evidence to determine whether it is the invaginating synapse or the flat contact remains absent. This is due to a lack of immunochemically verified ultrastructural data. Here, we investigated the precise expression of protein kinase C alpha (PKCα) using pre‐embedding immunoelectron microscopy (immuno‐EM) with a monoclonal antibody against PKCα, a biomarker for the RBCs. We determined the nanoscale localization of PKCα in the outer plexiform layer of the mouse and guinea pig retinas. Our results demonstrate the existence of both the direct invaginating synapse and the basal/flat contact of the cone–RBCs, providing for the first time immunochemically verified ultrastructural evidence for the cone–RBC synapse in the mouse and guinea pig retinas. These results suggest that the cross talk between cone and rod pathways is much more extensive than previously assumed.
Tacrolimus and Mycophenolic Acid Exposure Are Associated with Biopsy‐Proven Acute Rejection: A Study to Provide Evidence for Longer‐Term Target Ranges
Authors: Meziyerh Soufian , van Gelder Teun , Kers Jesper , van der Helm Danny , van der Boog Paul J. M. , de Fijter Johan W. , Moes Dirk Jan A. R. , de Vries Aiko P. J.
Published: April 2023

Evidence to define target ranges for tacrolimus (Tac) and mycophenolic acid (MPA) exposure after the first year of kidney transplantation is limited. We investigated the association of measurements at 1 year and repeated measurements of real‐world Tac‐trough levels (C0) and abbreviated area under the curve from zero to 12 hours (AUC0‐12h) of Tac and MPA with biopsy‐proven acute rejection (BPAR) between years 1 and 3 post‐transplant in 968 kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Thirty‐five (3.6%) out of 968 KTRs experienced BPAR. Both Tac‐AUC0‐12h (hazard ratio (HR): 0.39, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.30–0.50, P < 0.001), Tac‐C0 (HR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.38–0.57, P < 0.001) and MPA‐AUC0‐12h at 1 year (HR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.68–0.94, P = 0.006), as well as repeated measurements of Tac‐C0 (HR: 0.70, 95% credibility interval (CrI): 0.61–0.82, P < 0.001), and of MPA‐AUC0‐12h (HR: 0.75, 95% CrI: 0.62–0.93, P < 0.001) were associated with BPAR. In our population, the recommended target range for Tac‐AUC0‐12h at 1 year would be 75–95 ng*hour/mL and a Tac‐C0 5–7 ng/mL. The Tac‐AUC0‐12h predicted BPAR better than Tac‐C0 and identified KTRs with over‐ or underexposure despite supposedly adequate Tac‐C0. We did not find evidence to recommend another target than the consensus range of 30–60 mg*hour/L for MPA‐AUC0‐12h after the first year of transplantation. To our knowledge, this is a first study on the simultaneous exposure of Tac and MPA at year 1 and subsequent BPAR up to year 3, which may help define the therapeutic target window for the longer term.
Making Persistent Plastics Degradable
Authors: Farkas Vajk , Nagyházi Márton , Anastas Paul T. , Klankermayer Jürgen , Tuba Róbert
Published: April 2023

The vastness of the scale of the plastic waste problem will require a variety of strategies and technologies to move toward sustainable and circular materials. One of these strategies to address the challenge of persistent fossil‐based plastics is new catalytic processes that are being developed to convert recalcitrant waste such as polyethylene to produce propylene, which can be an important precursor of high‐performance polymers that can be designed to biodegrade or to degrade on demand. Remarkably, this process also enables the production of biodegradable polymers using renewable raw materials. In this Perspective, current catalyst systems and strategies that enable the catalytic degradation of polyethylene to propylene are presented. In addition, concepts for using “green” propylene as a raw material to produce compostable polymers is also discussed.
An improved long short‐term memory based on global optimization square root extended Kalman smoothing algorithm for collaborative state of charge and state of energy estimation of lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Wu Fan , Wang Shunli , Cao Wen , Long Tao , Liang Yawen , Fernandez Carlos
Published: April 2023

State of charge and state of energy are essential performance indicators of the battery management system and the key to reflecting the remaining capacity of batteries. Aiming at the problems of low precision, long time, and strongly nonlinear system estimation of state of charge and state of energy of lithium‐ion batteries based on traditional algorithm under complex working conditions, this paper proposes a hybrid method consisting of the long short‐term memory neural network and square root extended Kalman smoothing. The long short‐term memory neural network can enhance the memory ability of the previous time data. The sliding window technology is introduced into the network to improve the correlation between the last time and the subsequent time estimation. Based on the traditional Kalman filtering algorithm, the square root and reverse smoothing algorithms are introduced to solve the risk of the negative covariance matrix and the problems of slow convergence and significant estimation deviation caused by a strongly nonlinear system. According to experiments, under the hybrid pulse power characterization working condition at 25°C, the maximum absolute errors of state of charge and state of energy are 1.779% and 1.487%, and the mean absolute errors are 0.352% and 0.894%, respectively. Under the Beijing bus dynamic stress test working condition at 25°C, the maximum absolute errors of state of charge and state of energy are 2.703% and 2.369%, and the mean absolute errors are 0.462% and 0.621%, respectively. The experimental results show that this algorithm can obtain reliable state of charge and state of energy under different complex working conditions with high accuracy, convergence, and robustness.
A modified configuration of high step‐up non‐isolated DC‐DC converter with low voltage stress: Analysis, design, and implementation
Authors: Mohajery Reza , Shayeghi Hossein , Sedaghati Farzad , Bahador Asghar , Bizon Nicu
Published: April 2023

This study develops a novel DC‐DC converter with an extremely high voltage conversion ratio that utilizes just one switch, a voltage multiplier circuit (VMC), and a coupled‐inductor. Two diodes and two capacitors comprise the VMC, employed to reach high voltage gain. Consequently, the conduction loss is minimized by using a low voltage rated switch with lower RDS(on). Due to the coupled inductor's leakage inductance, the output diodes' reverse recovery trouble is solved. Moreover, the passive clamp technique stores and recycles leakage energy at the output. The proposed DC‐DC converter features are high conversion ratio, low maximum voltage on semiconductors, remarkable efficiency, the existence of only one active low voltage switch, and simple circuit topology with common ground between the input and the output. This paper outlines CCM, BCM, and DCM's operating concept and steady‐state analysis in great detail. Furthermore, the suggested structure's capability is indicated by mathematical analysis and comparative findings with other earlier structures. Eventually, experimental findings with 210 W output power and 25 kHz switching frequency demonstrates that the proposed converter can be used successfully.
A fusion bandwidth extension technique for broadband low‐noise amplifier
Authors: Wang Xinsheng , Yu Xingxi , Lai Xiongliang
Published: April 2023

Wideband low‐noise amplifiers (LNAs) are widely used in 5G and 6G communication systems. This paper first analyzes two common bandwidth extension technologies: the stagger tuning technique and the magnetically coupled resonators (MCR) technique. Then, a four‐stage LNA based on double‐tuned transformer combined with stagger tuning idea and MCR idea was proposed. In order to improve the broadband characteristics of the LNA, the loose coupling double‐tuned transformer is carefully designed. Compared with the traditional stagger tuning LNA, it has better broadband characteristics, lower element error sensitivity, and lower design complexity. This designs a gain bandwidth product of 1.48 T with a −3‐dB bandwidth in 9.11 GHz and the noise factor is lower than 3 dB, which covers more than 45% −3‐dB fractional bandwidth. The LNA consumes 37‐mW power with a 1.1‐V supply and occupies 1.22 × 0.4 mm2.
Safety and tolerability of lumbar puncture for the evaluation of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Baldaranov Dobri , Garcia Victoria , Miller Garrett , Donohue Michael C. , Shaw Leslie M. , Weiner Mike , Petersen Ronald C. , Aisen Paul , Raman Rema , Rafii Michael S.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Lumbar puncture (LP) to collect and examine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an important option for the evaluation of Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers but it is not routinely performed due to its invasiveness and link to adverse effects (AE).

Methods

We include all participants who received at least one LP in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) Study. For comparison between groups, two‐sample t‐tests for continuous, and Pearson's chi‐square test for categorical variables were performed.

Results

Two hundred twenty‐seven LP‐related AEs were reported by 172 participants after 1702 LPs (13.3%). The mean age of participants who reported at least one AE was 69.79 (standard deviation (SD) 6.3) versus none 72.44 (7.17) years (p < 0.001) with female predominance (115/172 = 67.4% vs 435/913 = 48%), and had greater entorhinal cortical thickness and hippocampal volume (3.903 (0.782) vs 3.684 (0.775) mm, p = 0.002; 7.38 (1.06) vs 7.05 (1.15) mm3, p < 0.001), respectively.

Discussion

We found that younger age, female sex, and greater thickness of the entorhinal cortex were associated with a higher rate of LP‐related AE reports.
Juvéderm: What we know now
Authors: Shope Chelsea , Andrews Laura , Eason Chelsea , Schlesinger Todd
Published: April 2023

Introduction: The Juvéderm family of dermal fillers are injectable, long‐lasting, homogenous, monophasic, monodensified hyaluronic acid fillers which are cross‐linked with varying amounts of 1,4‐butanediol‐diglycidyl‐ether (BBDE). Several formulations of Juvéderm exist, including the original Juvéderm Ultra® and Juvéderm Ultra Plus®, and the newer Juvéderm Voluma® XC. Differences in the Juvéderm product line stem from the hyaluronic acid (HA) concentration, gel hardness (G star (G*)), elastic properties (G prime (G′)), amount of molecular cross‐linking (BBDE percentage), and technology utilized for cross‐linking. Discussion: The Juvéderm filler lineup is such that each product is uniquely formulated for a specific indication. The lineup together has shown to be efficacious in treating superficial lines to deep‐seated wrinkles. These fillers are unlikely to cause adverse immune reactions, and as with other HAFs, their effects can be reversed with the injection of hyaluronidase. Conclusion: This chapter discusses the variety of fillers currently in the market within the Juvéderm family, as well as several new products on the horizon. We detail product FDA approvals, indications, safety, and adverse events.
Monitoring insect biodiversity and comparison of sampling strategies using metabarcoding: A case study in the Yanshan Mountains, China
Authors: Li Min , Lei Ting , Wang Guobin , Zhang Danli , Liu Huaxi , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: April 2023

Insects are the richest and most diverse group of animals and yet there remains a lack, not only of systematic research into their distribution across some key regions of the planet, but of standardized sampling strategies for their study. The Yanshan Mountains, being the boundary range between the Inner Mongolian Plateau and the North China Plain, present an indispensable piece of the insect biodiversity puzzle: both requiring systematic study and offering opportunities for the development of standardized methodologies. This is the first use of DNA metabarcoding to survey the insect biodiversity of the Yanshan Mountains. The study focuses on differences of community composition among samples collected via different methods and from different habitat types. In total, 74 bulk samples were collected from five habitat types (scrubland, woodland, wetland, farmland and grassland) using three collection methods (sweep netting, Malaise traps and light traps). After DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing and diversity analysis were performed, a total of 7427 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) at ≥97% sequence similarity level were delimited, of which 7083 OTUs were identified as belonging to Insecta. Orthoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera and Hemiptera were found to be the dominant orders according to community composition analysis. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis based on Bray–Curtis distances revealed highly divergent estimates of insect community composition among samples differentiated by the collection method (R = .524802, p = .001), but nonsignificant difference among samples differentiated according to habitat (R = .051102, p = .078). The study therefore appears to indicate that the concurrent use of varied collection methods is essential to the accurate monitoring of insect biodiversity.
Rapid Preparation of New Carbon Materials from Pure Six‐Carbon Alkane and Their Use as a Negative Electrode Additive for Lead‐Carbon Batteries
Authors: Yang Yali , Cao Jing , Liu Xiaowei , Huang Weiguo , Zhou Shengquan , Chen Li , Rao Yanzhao , Chen Zhengyang , Wu Lei
Published: April 2023

In this article, different carbon materials (NC, CC) are obtained by burning two kinds of six‐carbon alkane, n‐hexane, and cyclohexane, respectively. They are used as negative electrode additives for lead‐carbon batteries (LCBs) that could considerably improve the performance of LCB cycle life. 0.1 wt% NC (0.1NC) shows the best high rate partial state of charge cycle performance (5350) which is 3.6 times of CC and 1.2 times of commercial conductive carbon black. Furthermore, in the charging acceptance test, the initial instantaneous constant voltage charging receiving current of 0.1NC is 7.81 A, which is increased by 167% compared with 0.1EC (2.92 A). The synergistic effect of high graphitization structure, small specific surface area, and abundant carboxyl functional groups may be the reason for NC's good performance.
The Metal–Organic Frameworks Derived Co3O4/TiO2 Heterojunction as a High‐Efficiency Sulfur Carrier for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wei Jian , Qiao Xinyu , Ye Xiaolin , Chen Bing , Zhang Yanbin , Wang Taotao , Hui Jiawei
Published: April 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries, due to their various advantages such as their unique theoretical capacity, inexpensive, and environmental friendliness, have become one of the new‐generation energy storage systems. However, during the commercial development of lithium–sulfur batteries, they are limited by obstacles such as the volume expansion, shuttle effect, and low conductivity of S, which eventually lead to slow system reaction kinetics and poor cycling stability. Herein, heterostructured metal–organic framework‐derived Co3O4/TiO2 hybrids have been designed. The hollow structure of the Co3O4 is coupled with TiO2 on the surface to form a heterojunction to construct an internal electric field, which can promote charge transfer and improve reaction kinetics. Meanwhile, Co3O4/TiO2 has excellent trapping ability for lithium polysulfide, reducing the shuttle effect and alleviating volume expansion. As the cathode material, the initial discharge capacity of S@Co3O4/TiO2 at 0.1C is 1152.7 mAh g−1. Meanwhile, it has an initial specific capacity of 657 mAh g−1 at 1C, a capacity retention rate of 63.7% after 500 charge/discharge cycles, and an effective cycling stability with a decay rate of 0.072% in each cycle. This indicates that the construction of heterojunctions between materials has some enhancement on the performance of Li–S batteries.
Metal–Organic Framework–Derived ZnO‐Assisted β‐Phase‐Stabilized High‐Performance PVDF/ZnO‐PDMS/rGO Nanocomposites as Piezo–Tribo Hybrid Nanogenerator
Authors: Ojha Suparna , Maity Parna , Bera Sumanta , Kumar Si Suman , Bhusan Khatua Bhanu
Published: April 2023

Triboelectric and piezoelectric nanogenerators are explored to harvest electrical energy from the mechanical vibrations. These two effects are explored in a combined way as piezo–tribo hybrid nanogenerator (PTNG). Herein, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/ZnO nanocomposite where ZnO is synthesized is fabricated by using metal–organic framework precursors. The PTNG is fabricated by PVDF/ZnO nanocomposites coupling with the as‐fabricated poly dimethyl siloxane/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites. The incorporation of ZnO into the polymer matrix helps to stabilize the β‐phase of the PVDF which improves the piezoelectricity. ZnO not only enhances the piezoelectricity but also influences tribolelectricity indirectly. The as‐fabricated PTNG shows the output of open‐circuit voltage ≈185 V and short‐circuit current ≈14.5 μA and power density of ≈338 μW cm−2 which can light up 40 red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) in series connection and 22 red LEDs in parallel connection. It can also power up daily portable electronics like digital wrist watch and calculator. This PTNG, as well as, its piezoelectric part can harvest energy from various body part movements like walking, heel pressing, elbow bending, etc.
A century of channel change caused by flow augmentation on Sixth Water Creek and Diamond Fork River, Utah, USA
Authors: Jones Jabari C. , Stout Jacob B. , Belmont Patrick , Blythe Todd L. , Wilcock Peter R.
Published: April 2023

The Diamond Fork River in central Utah, USA experienced extreme flow augmentation via transbasin flows. Beginning in 1916, irrigation water was delivered through a tributary, Sixth Water Creek, with daily summer flows regularly exceeding a 500‐year flood at the point of introduction. Flows were dramatically reduced by management action in 2004 but with mandated minimum flows. We examined the geomorphic response of Sixth Water and Diamond Fork using aerial imagery, lidar, topographic cross sections, and sediment transport measurements. River channel response varied with valley confinement and with position in the watershed, which determined the magnitude of augmented flow relative to natural floods and the amount of sediment supply. Confined, steep sections of Sixth Water incised many meters into bedrock, whereas partially confined and unconfined sections developed a braided form even under conditions of general incision. With the removal of flow augmentation, smaller natural floods on Sixth Water are unable to transport bed material and the channel remains static. On the alluvial lower Diamond Fork, a lower slope, upstream sediment supply, and larger natural floods produced a dynamic shifting channel that widened in response to natural floods. After flow augmentation, a coarsened bed is partially mobile and channel narrowing appears to be limited by artificial baseflow, which prevent vegetation establishment in the channel.
Accumulation of Thallium in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Following Acute and Subchronic Waterborne Exposure
Authors: Nagel Andrew , Cuss Chad W. , Goss Greg G. , Shotyk William , Glover Chris N.
Published: April 2023

The accumulation and tissue distribution of toxicants in aquatic biota can be determinative of their toxic impact to both exposed organisms and their potential human consumers. In the present study, accumulation of the trace metal thallium (Tl) in gill, muscle, plasma, and otoliths of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) following acute (96-h) and subchronic (28-day) waterborne exposures was investigated. Owing to known interactions between Tl and potassium ions (K+), plasma and muscle K+ concentrations were also determined. Branchial Tl accumulated in a dose-dependent manner in both acute and subchronic exposures, while plasma Tl was rapidly mobilized to tissues and accumulated only at exposure concentrations of 141 µg L−1 or higher. For muscle tissue, Tl concentrations at 28 days were markedly lower than those at 96 h at comparable exposure concentrations (0.9 µg L−1), indicating the presence of mechanisms that act to reduce Tl accumulation over time. However, after acute exposure, muscle Tl reached concentrations that, if consumed, would exceed acceptable daily intake values for this element, indicating some risk to human health from the consumption of fish from waters heavily contaminated with Tl. Otoliths showed Tl concentrations that reflected exposure concentration and length, confirming their capacity to provide insight into fish exposure history. No changes in tissue K+ concentrations were observed, suggesting that accumulation of Tl in rainbow trout plasma and muscle does not occur at the expense of K+ homeostasis. In addition to highlighting the capacity of rainbow trout to accumulate Tl to levels that exceed recommended dietary doses to human consumers, the present study provides the first data of tissue-specific Tl accumulation in an important regulatory species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:1553–1563. © 2023 SETAC
Combining C‐reactive protein and quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA) to improve prognostic accuracy for sepsis and mortality in adult inpatients: A systematic review
Authors: Zacharakis Alexandra , Ackermann Khalia , Hughes Clifford , Lam Vincent , Li Ling
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Infections are common in hospitals, and if mismanaged can develop into sepsis, a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. This study aimed to examine whether combining C‐reactive protein (CRP) with the quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA) improves its accuracy for predicting mortality and sepsis in adult inpatients.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, CINAHL, Open Grey, Grey Literature Report, and the Clinical Trials registry were searched using CRP and qSOFA search terms. Title, abstract, and full‐text screening were performed by two independent reviewers using pre‐determined eligibility criteria, followed by data extraction and a risk of bias assessment using the Quality Assessment tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS‐2). Disagreements were settled through discussion and consultation with a third reviewer.

Results

Four retrospective studies with a total of 2070 patients were included in this review. Adding CRP to qSOFA improved the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve up to 9.7% for predicting mortality and by 14.9% for identifying sepsis. The sensitivity and specificity of the combined score for mortality prediction were available in two studies. CRP improved the sensitivity of qSOFA by 43% and 71% while only decreasing the specificity by 12% and 7%, respectively. A meta‐analysis was not performed due to study heterogeneity.

Conclusion

This comprehensive review provided initial evidence that combining CRP with qSOFA may improve the accuracy of qSOFA alone in identifying sepsis or patients at risk of dying in hospital. The combined tool demonstrated the potential to improve patient outcomes, with implications for low‐resource settings given its simplicity and low‐cost.
Familial aggregation of early‐onset cancers in early‐onset breast cancer families
Authors: Rantala Jasmiina N. J. , Heikkinen Sanna M. M. , Hirvonen Elli M. , Tanskanen Tomas , Malila Nea K. , Pitkäniemi Janne M.
Published: April 2023

The risk of early‐onset (EO) breast cancer is known to be increased in relatives of EO breast cancer patients, but less is known about the familial risk of other EO cancers. We assessed familial risks of EO cancers (aged ≤40 years) other than breast cancer in 54 753 relatives of 5562 women with EO breast cancer (probands) by using a population‐based cohort from Finland. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated by using gender‐, age‐ and period‐specific cancer incidences of the general population as reference. The risk of any cancer excluding breast cancer in first‐degree relatives was comparable to population cancer risk (SIR 0.99, 95% CI: 0.84‐1.16). Siblings' children of women with EO breast cancer were at an elevated risk of EO testicular and ovarian cancer (SIR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.07‐2.69 and 2.69, 95% CI: 1.08‐5.53, respectively). The risk of EO pancreatic cancer was elevated in siblings of the probands (7.61, 95% CI: 1.57‐22.23) and an increased risk of any other cancer than breast cancer was observed in children of the probands (1.27, 95% CI: 1.03‐1.55). In conclusion, relatives of women with EO breast cancer are at higher familial risk of certain discordant EO cancers, with the risk extending beyond first‐degree relatives.
Post‐radiation treatment of 3,3′‐diselenodipropionic acid augments cell kill by modulating DNA repair and cell migration pathways in A549 cells
Authors: Gandhi Vishwa Vipulkumar , Gandhi Khushboo Atulkumar , Goda Jayant Sastri , Kumbhare Liladhar Baburao , Gota Vikram , Kunwar Amit
Published: April 2023

Aim of the present study was to test whether ionizing radiation (IR) treatment along with 3,3′‐diselenodipropionic acid (DSePA), a redox active organodiselenide achieved better tumor control by suppressing the growth and migration of lung cancer cells. The results indicated that post‐IR (2 Gy) treatment of DSePA (5 μM) led to a significantly higher cell death as compared to that of DSePA and IR treatments separately. Importantly, combinatorial treatment also showed reduction in the proportion of cancer stem cells and the clonogenic survival of A549 cells. The mechanistic studies indicated that combinatorial treatment although exhibited reductive environment (marked by decrease in ROS and increase of GSH/GSSG) at early time points (2–6 h postradiation), slowed DNA repair, inhibited epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)/cell migration and induced significant level of apoptosis. DSePA mediated suppression of ATM/DNAPKs/p53 (DNA damage response signaling) and Akt/G‐CSF (EMT) pathways appeared to be the major mechanism responsible for its radio‐modulating activity. Finally, the combined treatment of IR (2 Gy × 4) and DSePA (0.1–0.25 mg/kg body weight daily through oral gavage) showed a significantly higher tumor suppression of the A549 xenograft as compared to that of DSePA and IR treatments separately in the mouse model. In conclusion, post‐IR treatment of DSePA augmented cell kill by inhibiting DNA repair and cell migration in A549 cells.
Airborne virus shedding of the alpha, delta, omicron SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and influenza virus in hospitalized patients
Authors: Ong David S. Y. , de Man Peter , Verhagen Tim , Doejaaren Gerda , Dallinga Marloes A. , Alibux Esmee , Janssen Matthijs L. , Wils Evert‐Jan
Published: April 2023

Airborne transmission is an important transmission route for the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Epidemiological data indicate that certain SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, like the omicron variant, are associated with higher transmissibility. We compared virus detection in air samples between hospitalized patients infected with different SARS‐CoV‐2 variants or influenza virus. The study was performed during three separate time periods in which subsequently the alpha, delta, and omicron SARS‐CoV‐2 variants were predominant. In total, 79 patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and 22 patients with influenza A virus infection were included. Collected air samples were positive in 55% of patients infected with the omicron variant in comparison to 15% of those infected with the delta variant (p < 0.01). In multivariable analysis, the SARS‐CoV‐2 omicron BA.1/BA.2 variant (as compared to the delta variant) and the viral load in nasopharynx were both independently associated with air sample positivity, but the alpha variant and COVID‐19 vaccination were not. The proportion of positive air samples patients infected with the influenza A virus was 18%. In conclusion, the higher air sample positivity rate of the omicron variant compared to previous SARS‐CoV‐2 variants may partially explain the higher transmission rates seen in epidemiological trends.
Highly efficient and ultra‐compact micro‐LED pico‐projector based on a microlens array
Authors: Li Yao , Jiang Haonan , Yan Yinguo , Liu Yongzhen , Zhou Ziping , Chen Enguo , Ye Yun , Xu Sheng , Yan Qun , Guo Tailiang
Published: April 2023

Pico‐projection displays are the main developing direction for future projection displays, but the balance between the optical efficiency and the system size is still a big concern. This paper presents a pico‐projector design based on micro‐LED (μLED) light sources. Firstly, based on the analysis of the characteristics of μLED, a highly integrated microlens array is designed to improve the system efficiency by reshaping the spatial light distribution. In addition, the matching relationship between the aperture angle of projection lens and the divergence angle of μLED is studied, and on this basis, a set of four‐piece spherical lens group is proposed to achieve compact size. Simulation results show that the μLED equipped with the microlens array can concentrate about 86% of the light energy within a dispersion angle of ±20°, thus increasing the light energy utilization by about 3.5 times and reducing the size of the pico‐projector to 30.18 mm3. The designed pico‐projector has high performance and compact size with great potential for future applications.
Patients with deleterious germline mutations: A heterogeneous population for pancreatic cancer screening?
Authors: Roch Alexandra M. , Kim Rachel C. , Nguyen Trang K. , House Michael G. , Zyromski Nicholas J. , Nakeeb Attila , Schmidt C. Max , Ceppa Eugene P.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives

Modest data exist on the benefits of screening and surveillance for pancreatic cancer (PC) in high‐risk individuals. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are known precursors to PC. We hypothesized that patients with high‐risk deleterious germline mutations have a higher prevalence of IPMN.

Methods

All patients undergoing prospective screening at a single institution from 2013 to 2019 were reviewed.

Results

Of 1166 patients screened, 358 (31%) possessed germline mutations and/or family history of PC (mutations n = 201/358, 56%, family history n = 226/358, 63%) (median follow‐up 2.7 years). IPMN was found in 127 patients (35.5%). The prevalence of IPMN in mutation carriers (18%) was higher than in the general population (p < 0.01). Germline mutation was an independent predictor of IPMN (odds ratio [OR] = 3.2; p < 0.01), while family history was not (p = 0.22). IPMN prevalence was distributed unevenly between mutation types (67%‐Peutz‐Jeghers; 43%‐HNPCC, 24%‐BRCA2; 17%‐ATM; 9%‐BRCA1; 0%‐CDKN2A and PALB2).

Conclusion

In this series, 18% of mutation carriers harbored IPMN, higher than the general population. Germline mutation, but not a family history of PC, was independently associated with IPMN. This prevalence varied across mutation subtypes, suggesting not all mutation carriers develop precancerous lesions. Genetic testing for patients with a positive family history may improve screening modalities for this high‐risk population.
Substituent effects in the tautomerization of imidic acids R−C(OH)=NH → R−C(O)NH2: Kinetic implications for the formation of peptide bonds in the interstellar medium
Authors: Würmel Judith , Simmie John M.
Published: April 2023

A number of amides, RC(O)NH2, have been detected spectroscopically in the space between the stars. Naturally the study of how these are formed is an important question on the path of chemical evolution from the elements C, H, N, O, P, … to life because the so‐called peptide‐bond −C(O)−NH− is a key linkage in poly‐amino acids or proteins. Both cyanides and water are abundant in the interstellar medium (ISM) and it has been suggested [J Phys Chem A. 2021;126:924‐939] that these react on water–ice grains, catalyzed by acid H3O+, to form firstly imidic acids R−C≡ N + H2O → RC(OH)NH and subsequently to amides. Here we explore the kinetics in the gas‐phase of the intramolecular tautomerization reaction of the imidic acids for R = H, HO, NC, H2N, HC(O), H3C, HOCH2, H2CCH,H3C(O), H2NCH2, C2H5, and CN, particularly at low temperatures where quantum mechanical small curvature and quantized reactant states tunneling are dominant. The most reactive imidic acid is H2NC(OH)NH which goes on to form urea, one of three known amides in the interstellar medium (ISM), which can self‐react to form cytosine and uracil two canonical nucleobases in RNA. The thermochemistry (, , , ) of the imidic acids and amides is also reported as well as the tautomerization of sulfur and phosphorus analogs HC(SH)NH and HC(OH)PH.
A Novel Anti‐Flashover Superhydrophobic Coating with Self‐Assembly Characteristic of Surface Energy Differences
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Xueqin , Zhang Guangquan , Liu Yijie , Guo Yujun , Xiao Song , Wei Wenfu , Wu Guangning
Published: April 2023

Because of the versatility of superhydrophobic materials, they have attracted a lot of attention even in power electronics, transportation, engineering, and other fields. The volume fraction of fluorinated silicon oxide nanoparticles in superhydrophobic materials is one of the most important factors. Increasing the volume fraction will decrease the stability between the coating and the hydrophobic surface. Especially, the flashover voltage of the coating gradually decreases from 10 to 35 vol.%. Meanwhile, the flashover voltage dispersion of the coating increases drastically after 30 vol.%. In order to improve the electrical properties of the superhydrophobic coating, self‐assembly of surface energy differences strategy is proposed in this work. A binary filling phase of the coating is introduced by 2D boron nitride nanosheets and silicon oxide nanoparticles. Although Hexagonal boron nitride with high surface energy and low roughness, it will be spontaneously assembled and wrapped by silicon oxide nanoparticle based on surface energy differences, which forming a low surface energy filled phase. Experiment results prove that the flashover voltage of the superhydrophobic coating is optimized by the binary filling phase coating. This method offers new ideas for the selection of filling phase and application of superhydrophobic materials.
Modeling cross‐talk of RNA modification enzymes reveals tumor microenvironment‐associated clinical significance and immunotherapy prediction in hepatobiliary malignancy
Authors: Qi Feng , Li Jia , Qi Zhuoran , Zhou Bin , Yang Biwei , Zhang Jun , Qin Wenxing
Published: April 2023

RNA modification includes four main types, N6‐methyladenosine, N1‐methyladenosine, alternative polyadenylation (APA), and adenosine‐to‐inosine (A‐to‐I) RNA editing, involving 41 enzymes that serve as “writers”, “readers” and “erasers”. By collecting RNA modifying enzyme information in 1759 hepatobiliary malignancy (HBM) samples from 11 datasets, an RNA modification HBM Score (RH_score) was established based on unsupervised cluster analysis of RNA modification‐associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We identified the imbalanced expression of 41 RNA modification enzymes in HBM, which was scientifically categorized into two groups: RH_Score high and RH_Score low. A high RH_Score was associated with a worse prognosis and more immature immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), while a low RH_Score was associated with a better prognosis and more mature immune cells in the TME. Further analysis using single‐cell databases showed that the high RH_Score was immune exhaustion in the TME. RH_Score was involved in transcriptional regulation and post‐transcriptional events in HBM. Additionally, resistant and sensitive drugs were selected based on RNA modification, and anti‐PD‐L1 therapy responded better with low RH_Score. In conclusion, our study comprehensively analyzes RNA modification in HBM, which induces TME changes and transcriptional and posttranscriptional events, implying potential guiding significance in prognosis prediction and treatment options.
Cyclic Nigerosylnigerose Attenuates High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Fat Deposition, Colonic Inflammation, and Abnormal Glucose Metabolism and Modifies Gut Immunoglobulin a Reactivity to Commensal Bacteria
Authors: Tsuruta Takeshi , Sonoyama Kei , Miyamoto Taisei , Nguyen Qui D. , Mizote Akiko , Teraoka Mao , Nishino Naoki
Published: April 2023

Scope

High‐fat diet (HFD) intake induces gut dysbiosis, inflammation in the peripheral tissues, and a reduction in immunoglobulin A (IgA) coating of gut bacteria, which is related to HFD‐induced insulin resistance (IR). This study evaluates the effect of cyclic nigerosylnigerose (CNN), a dietary fiber that prevents gut inflammation and promotes IgA coating of gut bacteria, on the above‐mentioned HFD‐induced disorders.

Methods and results

Balb/c mice are fed an HFD and administered CNN for 20 weeks. CNN administration reduces mesenteric adipose tissue weight, colonic tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) mRNA expression, and serum endotoxin levels and ameliorates HFD‐induced abnormal glucose metabolism. Additionally, CNN administration promotes gut bacteria‐specific IgA secretion and alters IgA reactivity to gut bacteria. The alterations of IgA reactivity to specific bacteria such as Erysipelatoclostridium, Escherichia, Faecalibaculum, Lachnospiraceae genera, and Stenotrophomonas are correlated with mesenteric adipose tissue weight, colonic TNFα mRNA expression, serum endotoxin levels, and a homeostasis model assessment for IR.

Conclusion

CNN‐induced alterations in IgA reactivity to gut bacteria may be related to the suppression of HFD‐induced fat deposition, colonic inflammation, endotoxemia, and IR. These observations indicate that dietary fiber that modulates IgA reactivity to gut bacteria may be useful in preventing HFD‐induced disorders.
Reshaped Gut Microbial Composition and Functions Associated with the Antifatigue Effect of Salidroside in Exercise Mice
Authors: Zhu Hongkang , Shen Fanglin , Wang Xiaochen , Cheng Yuliang , Guo Yahui , Qian He , Liu Yu
Published: April 2023

Scope

Salidroside (SA) is an active compound derived from Rhodiola rosea and is widely used in healthcare foods. However, the underlying mechanism and its specific role in regulating the gut microbial community during exercise (Ex) remains unknown.

Methods and results

Mice are subjected to a weight‐loaded swimming test (WST) Ex to determine how gut microbiota affects the antifatigue activity of SA. The SA‐treated group mice (100 mg kg−1.bw.) display a significant increase in swimming time compared to the control group (26.2 versus 10.5 min, p < 0.01), as well as an increase in respiratory enzymatic activities after swimming. The respiratory enzymatic activities are significantly higher in the SA‐treated group than in the RS (regular rest) group after swimming. The bacteria profiles in the Ex + SA group change significantly with higher species diversity and abundance. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of Alistipes, Rikenellaceae, Parabacteroides, Candidatus Arthromitus, and Lactobacillus indicate a high diagnostic utility to distinguish SA treatment. Microbial function analysis shows that SA may improve Ex‐induced fatigue by modulating energy metabolism‐related processes.

Conclusions

SA demonstrates antifatigue effects on various levels of regulating energy metabolism and microbial composition, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of SA as a natural prebiotic.
Investigation on the saturable absorption characteristics of GeNS and its application to harmonic mode‐locked modulation
Authors: Liu Peng , Sun Wanggen , Liu Hongyi , Yin Fangjun , Lei Ruirui , Jiang Kai , Wang Jing , Tang Wenjing , Xia Wei
Published: April 2023

The high‐quality germanene nanosheets (GeNS) were fabricated by a liquid‐phase exfoliated technique and used as the saturable absorber (SA) to generate the harmonic mode‐locked (HML) pulses in an Er‐doped fiber laser. The investigation on the nonlinear absorption effect of the GeNS was carried out systemically in this work. On the basis of the GeNS SA, the third‐ and fourth‐order HML pulses with repetition rates of 5.275 and 7.031 MHz were achieved, corresponding to the minimum pulse width of 3.04 and 3.21 ps, respectively. The research reveals that the GeNS has great capability for ultrafast pulses modulation and can be used as an outstanding nonlinear optical device to expand its applications in nonlinear optics.
Nurses' viewpoints on factors affecting ostomy care: A qualitative content analysis
Authors: Naseh Ladan , Shahriari Mohsen , Hayrabedian Aygineh , Moeini Mahin
Published: April 2023

Aims

Ostomy plays an important role in management of medical conditions, especially postoperative status of colorectal and bladder cancers. Nurses who have the highest contact level with these patients, face many situations while providing care and need to acquire adequate knowledge and practice responding to patients' needs. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of nurses in caring of abdominal ostomy patients.

Design

A qualitative content analysis study.

Methods

In this qualitative content analysis study, 17 participants were selected using purposeful sampling method and data were collected through in‐depth and semi‐structured interviews. Data analysis was done using conventional content analysis method.

Results

Analysis of the findings led to the emergence of 78 sub‐subcategories, 20 subcategories and seven main themes, including ‘Inefficient educational system’, ‘Nurse Characteristics’, ‘Workplace challenges’, ‘Nature of ostomy care’, ‘ Counseling and preparation of patients for surgery’, ‘Acquaintance with ostomy complications’, and ‘Proper planning of patient education’. Results showed that nurses in surgical wards provide non‐special ostomy care due to lack of sufficient knowledge and skills and absence of up‐to‐date and local clinical guidelines which is vital to provide evidence‐based scientific care and avoid unfounded and arbitrary care.
Mode I and II interlaminar fracture toughness of glass/carbon inter‐ply hybrid FRP composites: Effects of stacking sequence and testing temperature
Authors: Dasari Srinivasu , Patnaik Satyaroop , Bhattacharyya Tanmay , Mukherjee Subrata , Ray Bankim Chandra , Prusty Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2023

Even though laminated FRP composites show exceptional performance in various modes of loading, they are susceptible to delamination. The ambient temperature and elevated temperature delamination resistance of glass/carbon fiber interply hybrid composites were assessed via mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture toughness tests performed at 30, 50 and 70°C. Interply hybrid composites performed better than composites with single type of fiber. The fracture toughness of inter‐ply hybrid composites varied with the stacking position. At 30°C, mode I fracture toughness value of alternative glass and carbon fiber stacking sequence (G1C1)5 of hybrid composite showed 40% improvement over 10 layered carbon/epoxy (C10) composite. Further, Mode II fracture toughness of C5G5 composite showed 22% enhancement, and C10 exhibited 42% improvement over 10‐layered glass/epoxy composite. Increasing the test temperature of all composites improved their GIC and GIIC values. The increment in the mode I fracture toughness properties of all composite was in the range of 5%–23% at 70°C from its room temperature value. The fractographic images of fractured samples were studied under a scanning electron microscope and failure mechanisms of composites were identified.
A facile strategy to fabricate skin‐free porous polymer membranes based on sandwich structure
Authors: Cheng Xiong , Ding Mingming , Yang Yong‐Biao , You Jichun
Published: April 2023

The skin layer, i.e. the surface dense layer with relatively lower porosity, may significantly impede the permeability of porous polymer membranes. In this work, with the combination of experiment and finite element simulation, a facile strategy based on sandwich structure is proposed to eliminate the skin layer. The simulation results indicate that removing skin layers can increase the water flux of porous membranes by more than 4 times. In experiment, first the formation mechanism of skin layer is studied for the porous membranes fabricated from poly(ether‐ether‐ketone)/poly(ether‐imide) (PEEK/PEI) blend based on crystallization template. It is found that the stronger interaction between PEI and the polyimide releasing film during hot‐pressing is the cause of the PEEK skin layers of the obtained membranes. According to this mechanism, a skin‐free PEEK membrane is prepared from the PEI/(PEEK/PEI blend)/PEI sandwich structure. The separation test indicates that the PEEK membrane fabricated following the new strategy has remained rejection ratio and enhanced flux by 3–5 times as the simulation result predicts. Furthermore, the universality of developed sandwich strategy has been validated in polyformaldehyde/poly(L‐lactic acid) (POM/PLLA) blend (crystalline/crystalline system). Our results provide a novel solution to regulate the skin layer of porous membranes.
Experiences of UK‐based adult transition services for interstitial lung disease in childhood: “There's a lot less cushioning”
Authors: Gilbert Carlee , Bennett Kate M. , Brown Christopher , Bush Andrew
Published: April 2023

Interstitial lung disease in childhood (chILD) is rare and no longer purely a childhood issue as many survive into adulthood, and so have to transition from pediatric to adult healthcare services. Transition is a significant life event that has the potential to impact on physical and mental health outcomes. The European Respiratory Society (ERS) statement on chILD transition highlighted the lack of standardised transition services for chILD transition resulting in a haphazard process. This qualitative study explores how young people and parents in the United Kingdom experienced transition from paediatric to adult healthcare services for chILD. Participants (n = 7) were recruited from chILD patient organisations and online communities. We focused on the experience of transition exploring if there were any information packs or support provided for the transition. Such support may be generic, such as “Ready Steady Go” which provides a systematic approach to transition and disease‐specific literature. These latter have not been developed for ILD. Data were analysed by constructivist grounded theory. We present a lived experience of transition with themes of lack of transition preparation and planning, challenges of adapting to adult services, and a changing healthcare scene. Due to the complexity of chILD, parents discussed their need to remain, in part, as an advocate for the young person. Respondents provided recommendations for how transition could be improved along with tips for young people who are new to the transition process, which include educating oneself about the condition, learning medical terminology, and reaching out for support.