bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational Design of ZnMn2O4 Quantum Dots in a Carbon Framework for Durable Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Deng Shenzhen , Tie Zhiwei , Yue Fang , Cao Hongmei , Yao Minjie , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: January 2022

Manganese oxides are promising cathode materials for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) due to their high energy density and low cost. However, in their discharging processes, the Jahn–Teller effect and Mn3+ disproportionation often lead to irreversible structural transformation and Mn2+ dissolution, deteriorating the cycling stability of ZIBs. Herein, ZnMn2O4 quantum dots (ZMO QDs) were introduced into a porous carbon framework by in‐situ electrochemically inducing Mn‐MIL‐100‐derived Mn3O4 quantum dots and the carbon composite. In such ZMO QDs and carbon composite, the quantum dot structure endows ZnMn2O4 with a shorter ion diffusion route and more active sites for Zn2+. The conductive carbon framework is beneficial to the fast transport of electrons. Furthermore, at the interface between the ZMO QDs and the carbon matrix, the Mn−O−C bonds are formed. They can effectively suppress the Jahn–Teller effect and manganese dissolution of discharge products. Therefore, Zn/ZMO QD@C batteries display remarkably enhanced electrochemical performance.
Systematic Interrogation of Cellular Signaling in Live Cells Using a Membrane‐Anchored DNA Multitasking Processor
Authors: Chen Shan , Xu Zhifei , Li Shiwei , Liang Hong , Zhang Chen , Wang Zonghua , Li Jingying , Li Juan , Yang Huanghao
Published: January 2022

Systematic interrogation of correlative signaling components in their native environment is of great interest for dissecting sophisticated cellular signaling. However, it remains a challenge because of the lack of versatile and effective approaches. Herein, we propose a cell membrane‐anchored DNA multitasking processor acting as a “traffic light” for integrated analyses of cellular signal transduction. Enhanced and controllable inhibition of c‐Met signaling was achieved by membrane‐anchoring of DNA processors. Moreover, the multitasking capability of the DNA processor allowed the monitoring of correlative VEGF secretion induced by c‐Met activity regulation directly. By exploiting versatile aptameric nucleic acids, this modular designed DNA multitasking processor dissected how cell surface receptors coordinated with related components in live cells systematically. Therefore, it provides a powerful chemical tool for both fundamental cell biology research and precision medicine applications.
Colonization, cadavers, and color: Considering decolonization of anatomy curricula
Authors: Finn Gabrielle M. , Danquah Adam , Matthan Joanna
Published: January 2022

Anatomy is a discipline that, despite its universal nature, offers limited diversity in terms of representation in cadavers, imagery, technology, and models used within teaching. The universal move toward inclusive curricula has put anatomy education under the microscope, particularly with respect to efforts to decolonize curricula. This paper considers the challenges and opportunities to diversify the anatomy curriculum. Decolonizing anatomy education curricula will entail addressing the ingrained cultures within the disciplines, such that produces a number of challenges including: underrepresentation of certain bodies, difficulty talking about difference, and the hidden curriculum in anatomy education. In order to aid educators in achieving inclusive anatomy curricula, a toolkit and considerations are presented, alongside both do's, don'ts and case examples. We highlight the black‐or‐white dichotomy, and the absence of brown in between. The paper is a conversation starter for what it means to begin the process of decolonizing the curriculum within anatomy education.
Development of an extended proportional–integral–proportional control for improving positional motion performance of permanent magnet synchronous motor‐driven servomechanism
Authors: Yeh Syh‐Shiuh , Chang Yu‐Chia
Published: January 2022

To achieve high‐speed and high‐accuracy positional motions in a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM)‐driven servomechanism, this study developed an extended proportional–integral–proportional (PIP) control, particularly by considering the limitations of the hardware structure of commercialized PMSM drivers. PIP feedback and feedforward controls were developed, such that the existing PIP feedback control, which is extensively used in commercialized PMSM drivers, can perform dynamic and friction torque compensations in PMSMs. Thereafter, an extended PIP control with the newly added design degrees of freedom was developed based on the PIP feedback and feedforward control structures, thereby further improving the position response of the PMSM‐driven servomechanism and positional motion performance of advanced motion control systems. Position control experiments were performed on a commercialized PMSM pack installed on the rotary table of a five‐axis computer numerical control (CNC) machining center. Results indicate that the extended PIP control can significantly reduce position errors, which can be minimally influenced by the change in frequency of the position command. Furthermore, circular motion experiments were performed along the motion axes of the five‐axis CNC machining center. Results indicate that the extended PIP control with dynamic matching design can significantly reduce the root‐mean‐square value of contouring errors and roundness error value. Experimental results validate the feasibility of the extended PIP control for improving the positional motion performance of the PMSM‐driven servomechanism.
Utilization of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in high‐risk, node‐negative early breast cancer
Authors: Prakash Ipshita , Neely N. Ben , Thomas Samantha M. , Sammons Sarah , Blitzblau Rachel C. , DiLalla Gayle A. , Hyslop Terry , Menendez Carolyn S. , Plichta Jennifer K. , Rosenberger Laura H. , Fayanju Oluwadamilola M. , Hwang E. Shelley , Greenup Rachel A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Controversy exists regarding the optimal sequence of chemotherapy among women with operable node‐negative breast cancers with high‐risk tumor biology. We evaluated national patterns of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) use among women with early‐stage HER2+, triple‐negative (TNBC), and high‐risk hormone receptor‐positive (HR+) invasive breast cancers.

Methods

Women ≥18 years with cT1‐2/cN0 HER2+, TNBC, or high recurrence risk score (≥31) HR+ invasive breast cancers who received chemotherapy were identified in the National Cancer Database (2010–2016). Cochran‐Armitage and logistic regression examined temporal trends and likelihood of undergoing NACT versus adjuvant chemotherapy based on patient age and molecular subtype.

Results

Overall, 96,622 patients met study criteria; 25% received NACT and 75% underwent surgery first, with comparable 5‐year estimates of overall survival (0.90, 95% CI 0.892–0.905 vs 0.91, 95% CI 0.907–0.913). During the study period, utilization of NACT increased from 14% to 36% and varied according to molecular subtype (year*molecular subtype p < 0.001, p‐corrected < 0.001). Women with HER2+ (OR 4.17, 95% CI 3.70–4.60, p < 0.001, p‐corrected < 0.001) and TNBC (OR 3.81, 95% CI 3.38–4.31, p < 0.001, p‐corrected < 0.001) were more likely to receive NACT over time, without a change in use among those with HR+ disease (OR 1.58, 95% CI 0.88–2.87, p = 0.13, p‐corrected = 0.17).

Conclusion

Among women with early‐stage triple‐negative and HER2+ breast cancers, utilization of NACT increased over time, a trend that correlates with previously reported improved rates of pCR and options post‐neoadjuvant treatment with residual disease. Future research is needed to better understand multidisciplinary decisions for NACT and implications for breast cancer patients.
The foundations of Bolsonaro's support: Exploring the psychological underpinnings of political polarization in Brazil
Authors: Franco Alexandre Barros , Pound Nicholas
Published: January 2022

The election of the far‐right populist Jair Bolsonaro in the 2018 Brazilian Presidential election was a major turning point in the history of the country and arguably part of a worldwide trend toward a form of ‘authoritarian populism’. The present study was conducted to explore psychological factors that may contribute to the appeal of a polarizing figure such as Bolsonaro, in particular, to determine whether measures of various ‘Moral Foundations’ or ‘Social Dominance Orientation’ (SDO) could best predict voting behaviour in the 2018 election. Given the cultural and economic context in Brazil, measures of religiosity and personal relative deprivation were included as additional potential explanatory variables. An online survey of 325 people from Brazil found that Bolsonaro voters scored higher on the ‘binding’ (Loyalty, Authority, Purity/Sanctity) and lower on the ‘individualizing’ (Care, Fairness) Moral Foundations than voters for the candidate of the left, Fernando Haddad. Moreover, Bolsonaro voters scored higher than Haddad voters on SDO and religiosity. When the various social, moral and religious measures were considered simultaneously in a binary logistic regression, it was endorsement of right‐wing authoritarian ideologies (SDO and the Authority Moral Foundation), rather than lack of endorsement of individualizing Moral Foundations that best distinguished Bolsonaro voters.
Flavonoid‐Rich Fraction from Croton blanchetianus (Euphorbiaceae) Leaves Exerts Peripheral and Central Analgesic Effects by Acting via the Opioid and Cholinergic Systems
Authors: de Oliveira Alisson Macário , Widmer Ramona , do Nascimento Matheus Ferreira , Costa Wêndeo Kennedy , Paiva Patrícia Maria Guedes , Napoleão Thiago Henrique
Published: January 2022

The ethanolic extract from Croton blanchetianus leaves has been shown to have antinociceptive activity in mice. Here, we investigated the antinociceptive activity of an ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) from this extract in mice and the possible pathways involved in the analgesic effect. Adverse effects on behavior and motor coordination were also evaluated. The EAF was characterized by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and evaluated (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg per os) in the acetic acid‐induced abdominal writhing, formalin, hot plate, and tail immersion assays. Naloxone, atropine, glibenclamide, prazosin, or yohimbine was pre‐administered to mice to investigate the involved pathways in the formalin test. The open‐field, rotarod, and elevated plus‐maze tests were used to assess behavior and locomotion. The main components of the EAF were quercetin‐3‐O‐(2‐rhamnosyl) rutinoside, hyperoside, quercetin rutinoside pentoside, and quercetin hexoside deoxyhexoside. EAF showed antinociceptive effects in all models and was effective against both neurogenic and inflammatory pain. The reversion of the effects in the formalin test by naloxone and atropine revealed that the EAF acted via the opioid and cholinergic systems. In the open‐field test, the behavior of the animals treated with the EAF was like that of control, except at the highest dose, when hypnosis, eyelid ptosis, decreased walking, hygiene, and rearing behaviors were observed. No muscle relaxant effect was observed, but an anxiogenic effect was observed at all doses. This study provides new scientific evidence on the pharmacological properties of C. blanchetianus leaves and their potential for the development of phytomedicines with analgesic properties.
Protein‐Recognition‐Initiated Exponential Amplification Reaction (PRIEAR) and Its Application in Clinical Diagnosis
Authors: Hu Changjia , Zhang Jie , Jin Yanwen , Ma Wenjie , Zhou Rongxing , Du Huan , Yang Peng , Hou Xiandeng , Cheng Nansheng , Chen Junbo
Published: January 2022

Isothermal exponential amplification technology has rarely been fabricated as a universal sensing platform for the detection of proteins. To broaden their application, we have developed a strategy, named protein‐recognition‐initiated exponential amplification reaction (PRIEAR) using protein recognition to induce DNA assembly, which converts protein recognition events into ssDNA amplicons and combines two‐stage amplification to achieve exponential amplification. Taking advantage of this principle, diverse biomarkers can be quantified at sub‐picomolar concentrations in a homogenous manner, making PRIEAR suitable for clinical settings. Therefore, this strategy can expand the powerful isothermal exponential amplification technology to protein targets and thus provide a new toolbox in clinical and biomedical applications.
Circ‐Sirt1 inhibits vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation via the c‐Myc/cyclin B1 axis
Authors: Huang Minhua , Dong Yujie , Sun Guangbin , Yu Yuan
Published: January 2022

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are an important cellular component of the vascular wall. Restenosis is mainly due to VSMC excessive proliferation. However, little is known about the role of circRNAs in VSMC proliferation and phenotypic switching. Herein, using fluorescence in situ hybridization assay and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, we found that circ‐Sirt1 was markedly downregulated in neointimal formation after injury and in VSMCs treated with platelet‐derived growth factor BB (PDGF‐BB). Bromodeoxyuridine and MTT assays confirmed the inhibitory role of circ‐Sirt1 on cell proliferation. Mechanistically, circ‐Sirt1 was mainly expressed in the cytoplasm of VSMCs. Through RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull‐down assays, we found that circ‐Sirt1 bound with c‐Myc, which protein associated with proliferation of VSMCs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay also provided evidence that the overexpression of circ‐Sirt1 almost ceased PDGF‐BB‐induced binding of c‐Myc to the promoter of cyclin B1 in VSMCs. These results indicated that circ‐Sirt1 had an inhibitory effect on c‐Myc activity, providing a mechanism for suppressing PDGF‐BB‐induced VSMC proliferation by direct interactions with c‐Myc and its sequestration in the cytoplasm. Overall, our study demonstrated that a previously unrecognized circ‐Sirt1/c‐Myc/cyclin B1 axis in VSMCs mediates neointimal formation following injury.
Temporal effect of melatonin posttreatment on anoxia/reoxygenation injury in H9c2 cells
Authors: Bai Yang , Yang Yanli , Cui Boqun , Lin Duomao , Wang Zhaoqi , Ma Jun
Published: January 2022

Melatonin has been proven to reduce myocardial ischemia‐reperfusion (MI/R) injury. However, in most studies, melatonin was administered before MI/R, thus, the results lack clinical significance in patients with acute myocardial infarction. We hypothesize that melatonin posttreatment at different times has different curative effects. Administered of Melatonin (150 μM) at different times after the onset of reoxygenation (t = −15, 0, 5, 10, 15, and 30 min). Cellular apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function were assessed. Mitophagy‐related protein levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) activity were also measured. A/R injury upregulated mitophagy, which was associated with increased cellular apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Melatonin posttreatment (t = −15, 0, 5, 10, 15, and 30 min) significantly inhibited excessive mitophagy after A/R injury, reduced cellular apoptosis and oxidative stress, restored mitochondrial function and MMP, and restrained mPTP opening. The therapeutic time window in which melatonin posttreatment protected H9c2 cells against A/R injury was large (from −15 to 30 min after the onset of reperfusion), but the earlier the melatonin administration was, the better its protective effect was. This mechanism is likely due to a reduction in mPTP activity and MMP collapse, which lead to the inhibition of mitophagy.
Differential expression of circular RNAs in plasma exosomes from patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Zhang Lele , Qu Liyan , Zhang Yurong , Xu Zhijiang , Tang Huqiang
Published: January 2022

Exosomes are being extensively studied as a source of valuable new biomarkers. The underlying mechanism of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) may include changes in the circular RNAs (circRNAs) of exosomes. However, there is a lack of reports on the role of exosomal cirRNAs in the plasma of patients with AS. We isolated exosomes from the plasma of patients with AS and healthy individuals (controls). Subsequently, we investigated the circRNA profiles of the exosomes via high‐throughput RNA sequencing and identified 56 differentially expressed circRNAs in the exosomes of patients with AS compared with those of the healthy controls. Gene Ontology demonstrated that the differentially expressed circRNAs were mainly involved in the negative regulation of the activity of the transcription factor nuclear factor‐κB and bone remodelling that is potentially related to AS. Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genome demonstrated that the most highly AS‐correlated pathways that were identified were ‘notch signalling pathway’ and those primarily involved with ‘cholinergic synapse’. Finally, we validated five differentially expressed circRNAs using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and predicted their potential functions through the circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network. Our study is the first to report changes in exosomal circRNAs from plasma samples of patients with AS, and provide novel targets for further investigation of molecular mechanisms and potential intervention therapy targets of AS.
PROTOCOL: The effect of education programmes for improving knowledge of back health, ergonomics and postural behaviour in university students: A systematic review
Authors: Salman Mona , Bettany‐Saltikov Josette , Kandasamy Gokulakannan , Whittaker Vicki , Hogg Julie , Racero Garikoitz Aristegui
Published: January 2022

This is the protocol for a Campbell review. The objectives are as follows: To investigate the evidence on the effectiveness of education programmes in improving the knowledge of back health, ergonomics and postural behaviour in University students.
Early maladaptive schemas and COVID‐19 anxiety: The mediational role of mistrustfulness and vulnerability to harm and illness
Authors: Faustino Bruno , Vasco António Branco , Delgado João , Farinha‐Fernandes António , Guerreiro José Carlos
Published: January 2022

Background

Early maladaptive schemas (EMS), as lifelong psychological structures, tend to be associated with psychopathological symptomatology. Previous research has suggested that schemas act as psychological vulnerabilities to stressful life situations, such as the present worldwide COVID‐19 pandemic. In this context, anxiety and psychological distress have been documented as two of the main psychological symptoms associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, the associations between specific EMS and COVID‐19 anxiety remain unexplored. Therefore, this study aims to explore the relationships between EMS, COVID‐19 anxiety as well as other mental health variables such as psychological well‐being, distress and life satisfaction.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional design, 249 individuals (M = 34.2, SD = 12.0) completed several self‐report measures.

Results

EMS from different schematic domains were positively associated with COVID‐19 anxiety and psychological distress and negatively associated with psychological well‐being and life satisfaction. An EMS hierarchical regression model predicted COVID‐19 anxiety. Mistrustfulness and vulnerability to harm and illness mediated the relationships between COVID‐19 anxiety, psychological distress and life satisfaction.

Conclusions

According to these results, mistrustfulness and vulnerability to harm and illness can act as underlying variables for the decrease in mental health associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Compressive sensing based on novel chaotic matrix for cognitive radio
Authors: Abed Hadeel S. , Abdullah Hikmat N.
Published: January 2022

Cognitive radio (CR) is an emerging technology for optimum spectrum utilization. Spectrum sensing (SS) is the first step of CR. Important challenge in the next generations is wideband SS. Compressive sensing (CS) can be used as an SS in CR to solve this challenge. Sensing matrix (SM) plays an important role in CS. For better performance, SM must have low mutual coherence. The existing matrices in the literature are random and chaotic. All random matrices have a good performance, but they have problems of large memory storage, complexity, sharing bandwidth, and low security. Chaotic matrices (CMs) are the best but still have some problems including the use of sample distance in chaotic sequence that consumes high storage resources, low performance and compression under low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and low security. In this paper, we propose a new 1‐D chaotic map for constructing a novel SM. The proposed map has simple structure, wide range chaotic behavior, and high security. Its chaotic behavior is confirmed using Lyapunov exponent, bifurcation, and trajectory. The CS performance based on novel CM is measured using absolute error (
, mutual coherence, memory cost, computational complexity, and MSE (mean square error), while evaluated through comparisons with matrices in the literature. The simulation and mathematical results show that the proposed map is a hyperchaotic with efficient chaotic behavior in wide range of parameters and low memory storage and complexity. The results also show that it has low
, MSE, and mutual coherence at low SNR with high compression.
Atypia of undetermined significance in the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology: Cystic versus non‐cystic masses
Authors: Saoud Carla , Wangsiricharoen Sintawat , Kahler Jessica , Maleki Zahra
Published: January 2022

The term “Atypia” has been employed to describe a wide spectrum of cytomorphologic features associated with reactive/inflammatory processes as well as those suspicious for neoplasms in cytology. Similar to other cytopathology reporting systems, the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) has reserved the atypical category for cytology specimens lacking quantitative and/or qualitative cytomorphologic features to be diagnosed with confidence as either non‐neoplastic or neoplastic. In MSRSGC, the atypical category is associated with a risk of malignancy and recommendation for clinical management. In this review, we discuss the value of atypical diagnostic category of MSRSGC in both cystic and non‐cystic salivary gland lesions by evaluating our institutional case cohort.
Simultaneous quantification of 19 nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in oral fluid by liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry: Application on ultratrail runner's oral fluid
Authors: Mashal Mohammad Shafiq , Nalin Marie , Bevalot Fabien , Sallet Pierre , Guitton Jérôme , Machon Christelle
Published: January 2022

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a therapeutic class suspected to be used by ultratrail runners. The use of NSAIDs during ultratrails is known to be associated with various adverse effects. To study the prevalence of NSAIDs intake in ultratrail runners, oral fluid (OF) is a relevant matrix as it is noninvasive and easy to collect. The aim of our work was to develop and validate a liquid–liquid extraction followed by a liquid chromatography (LC)–mass spectrometry (MS)/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) method for the simultaneous quantification of 19 NSAIDs in OF. After a comparison of different liquid–liquid extraction methods, a double step liquid–liquid extraction with chloroform was performed on OF collected with Quantisal®, with extraction recoveries higher than 90%. An Accucore AQ column was selected for the chromatographic separation of NSAIDs. The Q Exactive Plus mass spectrometer operated in full scan and ddms2 mode after positive and negative electrospray ionization. Selectivity, carry‐over, matrix effect, and linearity were validated for all NSAIDs. Within‐day and between‐day accuracy and precision were validated for all NSAIDs (<15% for quality control [QC] samples and <20% for lower limit of quantitation [LLOQ]), except within‐day accuracy for the LLOQ of mefenamic acid. A stability study was also performed on OF at room temperature and +4°C. The method was applied on OF from runners who participate to Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc®.
Alleviating Interfacial Recombination of Heterojunction Electron Transport Layer via Oxygen Vacancy Engineering for Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells Over 23%
Authors: Ko Yohan , Kim Taemin , Lee Chanyong , Lee Changhyun , Yun Yong Ju , Jun Yongseok
Published: January 2022

Electron transport layer (ETL) is pivotal to charge carrier transport for PSCs to reach the Shockley–Queisser limit. This study provides a fundamental understanding of heterojunction electron transport layers (ETLs) at the atomic level for stable and efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The bilayer structure of an ETL composed of SnO2 on TiO2 was examined, revealing a critical factor limiting its potential to obtain efficient performance. Alteration of oxygen vacancies in the TiO2 underlayer via an annealing process is found to induce manipulated band offsets at the interface between the TiO2 and SnO2 layers. In‐depth electronic investigations of the bilayer structure elucidate the importance of the electronic properties at the interface between the TiO2 and SnO2 layers. The apparent correlation in hysteresis phenomena, including current density–voltage (J–V) curves, appears as a function of the type of band alignment. Density functional theory calculations reveal the intimate relationship between oxygen vacancies, deep trap states, and charge transport efficiency at the interface between the TiO2 and SnO2 layers. The formation of cascade band alignment via control over the TiO2 underlayer enhances device performance and suppresses hysteresis. Optimal performance exhibits a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 23.45% with an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.184 V, showing better device stability under maximum power point tracking compared with a staggered bilayer under one‐sun continuous illumination.
CA‐125 variation in acute heart failure: a single‐centre analysis
Authors: Lourenço Patrícia , Cunha Filipe M. , Elias Catarina , Fernandes Catarina , Barroso Isaac , Guimarães João T. , Bettencourt Paulo
Published: January 2022

Aims

A decrease in carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA‐125) predicts survival advantage in chronic heart failure (HF); the impact of its variation in acute HF is unknown. We studied the association of CA‐125 decrease with prognosis in acute HF.

Methods and results

We studied acute hospitalized HF patients. Predictors of admission and discharge CA‐125 were determined by linear regression. Follow‐up was 1 year; endpoint was all‐cause death. The association of admission and discharge CA‐125 with mortality was assessed using a Cox‐regression analysis. A Cox‐regression analysis was also used to assess the prognostic impact of CA‐125 decrease during hospitalization. Analysis was stratified by length of hospital stay (LOS). We studied 363 patients, 51.5% male, mean age 75 ± 12 years, 51.5% ischaemic, 30.0% with preserved ejection fraction, and 57.3% with reduced ejection fraction; patients presented elevated comorbidity burden. Median LOS was 7 (5–11) days. In the subgroup of 262 patients with CA‐125 measured both at admission and at discharge, we reported a significant increase in its levels: 56.0 (26.0–160.7) U/mL to 74.0 (32.3–195.0) U/mL. Independent predictors of admission CA‐125 were higher BNP and lower creatinine. Predictors of discharge CA‐125 were higher discharge BNP, lower discharge albumin, and younger age. Both admission and discharge CA‐125 predicted mortality. During follow‐up, 75 (31.8%) patients died. A decrease in CA‐125 predicted a 68% reduction in the 1 year death risk only in patients with LOS > 10 days.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that an early re‐evaluation (>10 days) with CA‐125 measurement after an acute HF hospitalization may be of interest in patient management.
Pathophysiological pathways related to high plasma growth differentiation factor 15 concentrations in patients with heart failure
Authors: Ceelen Daan , Voors Adriaan A. , Tromp Jasper , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Dickstein Kenneth , de Boer Rudolf A. , Lang Chim C. , Anker Stefan D. , Ng Leong L. , Metra Marco , Ponikowski Piotr , Figarska Sylwia M.
Published: January 2022

Aims

Elevated concentrations of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15) in patients with heart failure (HF) have been consistently associated with worse clinical outcomes, but what disease mechanisms high GDF‐15 concentrations represent remains unclear. Here, we aim to identify activated pathophysiological pathways related to elevated GDF‐15 expression in patients with HF.

Methods and results

In 2279 patients with HF, we measured circulating levels of 363 biomarkers. Then, we performed a pathway over‐representation analysis to identify key biological pathways between patients in the highest and lowest GDF‐15 concentration quartiles. Data were validated in an independent cohort of 1705 patients with HF. In both cohorts, the strongest up‐regulated biomarkers in those with high GDF‐15 were fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF‐23), death receptor 5 (TRAIL‐R2), WNT1‐inducible signalling pathway protein 1 (WISP‐1), tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 11a (TNFRSF11A), leucocyte immunoglobulin‐like receptor subfamily B member 4 (LILRB4), and trefoil factor 3 (TFF3). Pathway over‐representation analysis revealed that high GDF‐15 patients had increased activity of pathways related to inflammatory processes, notably positive regulation of chemokine production; response to interleukin‐6; tumour necrosis factor and death receptor activity; and positive regulation of T‐cell differentiation and inflammatory response. Furthermore, we found pathways involved in regulation of insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) receptor signalling and regulatory pathways of tissue, bones, and branching structures. GDF‐15 quartiles significantly predicted all‐cause mortality and HF hospitalization.

Conclusion

Patients with HF and high plasma concentrations of GDF‐15 are characterized by increased activation of inflammatory pathways and pathways related to IGF‐1 regulation and bone/tissue remodelling.
A Novel Strategy toward High‐Performance Lithium Storage of Li4Ti5O12 Using Cu2V2O7 as Additive
Authors: Xu Ningning , Zhao Dexing , Wang Rui , Han Qing , Miao Yongxia , Yang Xinli , Xie Lingling , Zhang Caili , Zhu Limin , Cao Xiaoyu
Published: January 2022

Cu2V2O7 is an important material to improve low conductivity of Li4Ti5O12. Herein, Li4Ti5O12/Cu2V2O7 with different Cu2V2O7 ratios is successfully prepared by a liquid phase‐assisted dispersion method. The results show that the electrochemical properties of Li4Ti5O12 are affected by the Cu2V2O7 content incorporated in the composites. Among all obtained samples, Li4Ti5O12/0.05 Cu2V2O7 reveals the best electrochemical performance and capacity retention rate, and its first cycle specific capacity is 246.3/197.2 mAh g−1 when the current density is 30 mA g−1 and it maintains values of 175.8/175 mAh g−1 for 200 cycles between 1.0 and 3.0 V. The resulting Li4Ti5O12/0.05 Cu2V2O7 composite also displays higher capacities at elevated current densities of 120 and 1200 mA g−1, with values always superior to those of the original Li4Ti5O12. The detailed electrode dynamics analysis illustrates that the introduced Cu2V2O7 phase in the composites improves the cycle stability and lithium‐ion transfer rate of Li4Ti5O12. Through in situ X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) test analysis of the Li4Ti5O12/0.05 Cu2V2O7 composite material, it is confirmed that the lithium storage mechanism is improved, where metallic Cu is formed in situ during each charge and discharge reaction process; thereby, the electronic conductivity of the composite material is improved and charge transfer resistance of the bulk material is reduced.
Holey Layered Oxygen‐Rich Graphene Xerogels for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Hou Lijie , Kong Chao , Hu Zhongai , Han Yanxia , Wu Bowan
Published: January 2022

Holey layered oxygen‐rich graphene (HLGH) xerogel material is prepared with a green pore‐making agent (potassium ferrate, K2FeO4), whose morphology and pore structure are completely different from traditional 3D graphene xerogels. The extra oxygen‐containing functional groups existing around the in‐plane pores in HLGH xerogels can contribute more pseudocapacitance to the total capacitance. The optimal HLGH xerogels electrode material obtained a high specific capacitance of 329.5 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, which is much larger than that of traditional graphene xerogel (GH, 169.0 F g−1). Finally, the symmetric supercapacitor is assembled by using the HLGH xerogels, which achieves the high energy (25.3 Wh kg−1) and power densities (0.9 kW kg−1). The specific capacitance is only reduced by 10% after 5000 cycles, showing the excellent stability. Herein, an insight for designing a high‐performance graphene carbon‐based supercapacitor is provided.
In‐situ growth of ultrathin sulfur microcrystal on MXene‐based 3D matrice for flexible lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Xia Jun , Chen Weixin , Yang Yang , Guan Xianggang , Yang Tian , Xiao Mingjun , Zhang Shichao , Xing Yalan , Lu Xia , Zhou Guangmin
Published: January 2022

Lithium–sulfur batteries (Li‐S batteries) are promising next‐generation energy storage systems because of their high‐theoretical energy density. However, the commercialization of Li‐S batteries is still impeded by the aggregation of sulfur, low‐sulfur utilization, shuttling of dissolved polysulfides and sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, we designed a hierarchically maple leaf‐like structured sulfur electrodes by in‐situ growth of ultrathin sulfur microcrystal on two‐dimensional MXene‐graphene‐cellulose nanofiber (MGN) matrice (denoted as IS‐MGN@S). The sulfur microcrystal as cathode can achieve improved kinetics than bulk sulfur due to its few layers of sulfur atoms, which is proved by the density functional theory calculations. The MXene not only confines polysulfides through strong chemisorption but also promotes the catalytic conversion of polysulfides. The introduction of graphene improves the conductivity and boosts the immobilization and conversion of polysulfides. As a result, the IS‐MGN@S cathode demonstrates remarkable electrochemical properties with a high‐initial capacity (1229 mAh g−1 at 0.2C), substantial improvement in rate capability (770 mAh g−1 at 2C), and stable long‐term cycling capacity. Moreover, the pouch cells with IS‐MGN@S cathode and gel electrolyte demonstrate excellent mechanical properties under mechanical damage (nail & cut tests, severe deformations), suggesting their promising applications for wearable electronic devices.

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Hydrofracture plugging mechanisms and evaluation methods during temporary plugging and diverting fracturing
Authors: Shi Shanzhi , Cheng Fushan , Wang Mingxing , Wang Jian , Lv Wenjing , Wang Bo
Published: January 2022

Temporary plugging and diverting fracturing (TPDF) technique shows great advantages in stimulating unconventional oil and gas reserves. Revealing the fracture plugging mechanism and establishing the evaluation method are beneficial for revealing the mechanism of forming multiple fractures during TPDF. This work revealed the processes of plugging the fractures based on the typical injection pressure curve of hydraulic fracturing operation and then applied the stress cage model, the fracture closure stress model, and the fracture propagation resistance model to reveal the fracture plugging mechanisms. Moreover, this paper establishes a 2D XFEM model to evaluate the fracture plugging effect, and the reliability of the model is verified against the finite element model. Based on the XFEM model, this work investigates the fracture plugging effects influenced by the uneven distribution of net pressure within the fracture. The results prove that fracture mouth plugging of TPF mainly enhances the wellbore circumferential stress, in‐fracture plugging mainly enhances fracture closure pressure, fracture tip plugging mainly hinders fracturing fluids flowing toward fracture tips, all of them aim at enhancing the reopen pressure of the existing fractures and prevent the propagation of the existing fracture. Diverter bridging and plugging can change the distribution of fracture net pressure and dramatically reduce the fracture tip stress factor, and thus, the existing fracture propagation can be efficiently stopped.
Genome-wide evolutionary response of European oaks during the Anthropocene
Authors: Saleh Dounia , Chen Jun , Leplé Jean-Charles , Leroy Thibault , Truffaut Laura , Dencausse Benjamin , Lalanne Céline , Labadie Karine , Lesur Isabelle , Bert Didier , Lagane Frédéric , Morneau François , Aury Jean-Marc , Plomion Christophe , Lascoux Martin , Kremer Antoine
Published: January 2022

The pace of tree microevolution during Anthropocene warming is largely unknown. We used a retrospective approach to monitor genomic changes in oak trees since the Little Ice Age (LIA). Allelic frequency changes were assessed from whole-genome pooled sequences for four age-structured cohorts of sessile oak (Quercus petraea) dating back to 1680, in each of three different oak forests in France. The genetic covariances of allelic frequency changes increased between successive time periods, highlighting genome-wide effects of linked selection. We found imprints of parallel linked selection in the three forests during the late LIA, and a shift of selection during more recent time periods of the Anthropocene. The changes in allelic covariances within and between forests mirrored the documented changes in the occurrence of extreme events (droughts and frosts) over the last 300 years. The genomic regions with the highest covariances were enriched in genes involved in plant responses to pathogens and abiotic stresses (temperature and drought). These responses are consistent with the reported sequence of frost (or drought) and disease damage ultimately leading to the oak dieback after extreme events. They provide support for adaptive evolution of long-lived species during recent climatic changes. Although we acknowledge that other sources (e.g., gene flow, generation overlap) may have contributed to temporal covariances of allelic frequency changes, the consistent and correlated response across the three forests lends support to the existence of a systematic driving force such as natural selection.
Near‐harvest application of methyl jasmonate affected phenolic content and antioxidant properties in “Thompson Seedless” grape
Authors: Ranjbaran Ehsan , Gholami Mansour , Jensen Martin
Published: January 2022

The influence of methyl jasmonate (MJ) preharvest treatment was investigated on some polyphenols and antioxidant systems in the “Thompson Seedless” table grape. The clusters were sprayed in the vineyard 2 days before harvest with 0, 1, 5, and 10 mM MJ. After picking, berries were stored for 6 days at 15°C, simulating marketing conditions. Total phenols and flavonoids were affected by MJ treatment, especially at 10 mM concentration, whereas total tannins were found to be unchanged. Antioxidant activity of the treated skin was noticeably higher compared with the control, together with PAL and POD activity. Although MJ had little effect on catechin and epicatechin, the levels of quercetin and rutin were noticeable. In addition, 5 and 10 mM MJ exerted a pronounced effect on transresveratrol content. These data showed that a single preharvest application close to the harvest time could be an effective treatment to promote the antioxidant properties of the grape.
Genome‐wide pleiotropy analysis identifies novel blood pressure variants and improves its polygenic risk scores
Authors: Zhu Xiaofeng , Zhu Luke , Wang Heming , Cooper Richard S. , Chakravarti Aravinda
Published: January 2022

Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (S/DBP) are highly correlated modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We report here a bidirectional Mendelian Randomization (MR) and horizontal pleiotropy analysis of S/DBP summary statistics from the UK Biobank (UKB)‐International Consortium for Blood Pressure (ICBP) (UKB‐ICBP) BP genome‐wide association study and construct a composite genetic risk score (GRS) by including pleiotropic variants. The composite GRS captures greater (1.11–3.26 fold) heritability for BP traits and increases (1.09‐ and 2.01‐fold) Nagelkerke's R2 for hypertension and CVD. We replicated 118 novel BP horizontal pleiotropic variants including 18 novel BP loci using summary statistics from the Million Veteran Program (MVP) study. An additional 219 novel BP signals and 40 novel loci were identified after a meta‐analysis of the UKB‐ICBP and MVP summary statistics but without further independent replication. Our study provides further insight into BP regulation and provides a novel way to construct a GRS by including pleiotropic variants for other complex diseases.
Magmatic and metamorphic history of the Proterozoic Lesser Himalayan Crystallines from Bomdila area, Arunachal Pradesh, NE Lesser Himalaya, India: Constraints from whole rock and mineral chemistry
Authors: Rashid Shaik A. , Ganai Javid A , Bhadra Subhadip , Islam Naqeebul , Ahmad Shamshad
Published: January 2022

The excellent exposures of plentiful Proterozoic granitic bodies in the north‐east Himalaya offer a chance to explore the evolution of continental crust in the Early Proterozoic period. The present comprehensive study from Bomdila area, western Arunachal Pradesh, NE India documents petrogenesis of Palaeoproterozoic Bomdila granite gneiss and metamorphic history of the region using the whole rock and mineral chemistry, and suitable mineral thermobarometry. The gneisses, with quartz, k‐feldspar, plagioclase, and mica mineralogy, are characterized by enrichment in rare earth elements (total REE up to 290 ppm), Rb, Ba, Th, and depletion in mafic elements (Ni, Cr, V, Sc). The gneisses are subalkaline and peraluminous with A/CNK (Al2O3/CaO + Na2O + K2O) > 1.1, indicating S‐type nature of the granites. The gneisses show fractionated REE patterns (LaN/YbN = up to 22) with LREE enrichment and HREE depletion. Geochemical characteristics such as enriched SiO2, Al2O3, alkalis, LREE, high incompatible element ratios (Rb/Sr and Ba/Sr), and depleted mafic contents with noticeable negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.2 – 0.6) suggest an origin of gneisses through high‐temperature (>800°C) shallow crustal melting of a pelitic source similar to the metasedimentary enclaves within the gneisses. Mineral thermobarometric calculations suggest a tightly constrained P–T condition of 7.5–8.6 kbar and 560–590°C for the gneiss and schist from the study area. Almost identical P–T conditions of metamorphism from different lithologies attests that the Bomdila area may have attained an upper amphibolitic facies condition, possibly concomitant to the Himalayan Orogeny. Though rudimentary, temperature estimates from Ti‐in biotite thermometer suggest an increase in metamorphic grade towards the Main Central Thrust.
Bandwagoning, free‐riding and heterogeneity in influenza vaccine decisions: An online experiment
Authors: Galizzi Matteo M. , W. Lau Krystal , Miraldo Marisa , Hauck Katharina
Published: January 2022

‘Nudge’‐based social norms messages conveying high population influenza vaccination coverage levels can encourage vaccination due to bandwagoning effects but also discourage vaccination due to free‐riding effects on low risk of infection, making their impact on vaccination uptake ambiguous. We develop a theoretical framework to capture heterogeneity around vaccination behaviors, and empirically measure the causal effects of different messages about vaccination coverage rates on four self‐reported and behavioral vaccination intention measures. In an online experiment, N = 1365 UK adults are randomly assigned to one of seven treatment groups with different messages about their social environment's coverage rate (varied between 10% and 95%), or a control group with no message. We find that treated groups have significantly greater vaccination intention than the control. Treatment effects increase with the coverage rate up to a 75% level, consistent with a bandwagoning effect. For coverage rates above 75%, the treatment effects, albeit still positive, stop increasing and remain flat (or even decline). Our results suggest that, at higher coverage rates, free‐riding behavior may partially crowd out bandwagoning effects of coverage rate messages. We also find significant heterogeneity of these effects depending on the individual perceptions of risks of infection and of the coverage rates.
Patient‐reported outcomes in HCC: A scoping review by the Practice Metrics Committee of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases
Authors: Serper Marina , Parikh Neehar D. , Thiele Grace , Ovchinsky Nadia , Mehta Shivang , Kuo Alexander , Ho Chanda , Kanwal Fasiha , Volk Michael , Asrani Sumeet K. , Ghabril Marwan S. , Lake John R. , Merriman Raphael B. , Morgan Timothy R. , Tapper Elliot B.
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

HCC is a leading cause of mortality in patients with advanced liver disease and is associated with significant morbidity. Despite multiple available curative and palliative treatments, there is a lack of systematic evaluation of patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in HCC.

Approach and Results

The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases Practice Metrics Committee conducted a scoping review of PROs in HCC from 1990 to 2021 to (1) synthesize the evidence on PROs in HCC and (2) provide recommendations on incorporating PROs into clinical practice and quality improvement efforts. A total of 63 studies met inclusion criteria investigating factors associated with PROs, the relationship between PROs and survival, and associations between HCC therapy and PROs. Studies recruited heterogeneous populations, and most were cross‐sectional. Poor PROs were associated with worse prognosis after adjusting for clinical factors and with more advanced disease stage, although some studies showed better PROs in patients with HCC compared to those with cirrhosis. Locoregional and systemic therapies were generally associated with a high symptom burden; however, some studies showed lower symptom burden for transarterial radiotherapy and radiation therapy. Qualitative studies identified additional symptoms not routinely assessed with structured questionnaires. Gaps in the literature include lack of integration of PROs into clinical care to guide HCC treatment decisions, unknown impact of HCC on caregivers, and the effect of palliative or supportive care quality of life and health outcomes.

Conclusion

Evidence supports assessment of PROs in HCC; however, clinical implementation and the impact of PRO measurement on quality of care and longitudinal outcomes need future investigation.