bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operation voltage and illumination intensity dependent space-charge limited current conductions in vertical organic phototransistors based on CuPc/C60 heterojunction and graphene
Authors: Hu Gang , Zhu Huabiao , Dai Qinyong , Jiang Chaoqun , Peng Yingquan , Lv Wenli , Xu Sunan , Sun Lei , Jiang Lin , Schneider Grégory F.
Published: September 2022

For a trap-free single layer single carrier (hole-only or electron-only) organic device of thickness d, dielectric constant εr, and mobility μ, the relation of current density j with voltage V is described by the well-known Mott–Gurney equation, j=9ε0εrμV2/8d3, which can be rewritten as j=GV, where G=9ε0εrμ/8d3 can be called space-charge limited (SCL) conductance. We investigated the current–voltage characteristics of vertical organic heterojunction phototransistors based on graphene as the source and C60/copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) heterojunction as the photoactive layer. We found that the drain current vs drain voltage (Id-Vd) characteristic is composed of two distinct SCL conductions with SCL-conductance being strongly dependent on the gate voltage and illumination intensity. At low gate voltages, the Id-Vd curve can be divided into two sections of SCL current conduction with different SCL-conductance: the lower conductance in the lower drain voltage range and the higher conductance in the higher drain voltage range. Both low and high SCL-conductance increase with the gate voltage and illumination intensity. However, as the gate voltage increases to a certain threshold, the two SCL sections unify to only one with the conductance being between them. Our findings implicate that the current conduction of an ideal vertical organic phototransistor (VOPT), whose source/organic interface contact is Ohmic and organic semiconductor is trap free, can be well modeled by the SCL conduction theory with carrier density dependent mobility, which is strongly related to the gate voltage and illumination intensity, and that the mobility of VOPTs at a certain gate voltage can be extracted by the Mott–Gurney equation.
Enhanced nonreciprocal light propagation based on epsilon-near-zero medium in the visible regime
Authors: Huang Jing , He Yuan , Zhu Hao , Chen Qinjun , Xu Yanhua , Miao Lili , Zhao Chujun
Published: September 2022

We have experimentally demonstrated the nonreciprocal light propagation based on the axially asymmetric nonlinear absorption in the epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) media titanium nitride (TiN) nanosheets and C60 arranged in tandem in the visible regime. TiN nanosheets have been prepared and characterized to show broadband and ultrafast nonlinear optical response with the maximum nonlinear absorption coefficient about −5.05×10−8 m/W at its ENZ wavelength, which is about ten times larger than that at 400 nm. With the enhanced nonlinear absorption of TiN nanosheets, a passive photonic diode fabricated with TiN-C60 in a tandem structure shows enhanced nonreciprocal transmission of femtosecond laser pulses with a nonreciprocity factor of 9.5 dB at the ENZ wavelength. The results show the potential applications of TiN nanosheets in ultracompact, polarization-independent, and physiochemically stable nonreciprocal light propagation and may pave way for the application of broadband ENZ-based all-optical devices.
Defect-modulated thermal transport behavior of BAs under high pressure
Authors: Zhou Yongjian , Hsieh Wen-Pin , Chen Chao-Chih , Meng Xianghai , Tian Fei , Ren Zhifeng , Shi Li , Lin Jung-Fu , Wang Yaguo
Published: September 2022

Boron arsenide (BAs) is a covalent semiconductor with a theoretical intrinsic thermal conductivity approaching 1300 W/m K. The existence of defects not only limits the thermal conductivity of BAs significantly but also changes its pressure-dependent thermal transport behavior. Using both picosecond transient thermoreflectance and femtosecond time-domain thermoreflectance techniques, we observed a non-monotonic dependence of thermal conductivity on pressure. This trend is not caused by the pressure-modulated phonon–phonon scattering, which was predicted to only change the thermal conductivity by 10%–20%, but a result of several competing effects, including defect–phonon scattering and modification of structural defects under high pressure. Our findings reveal the complexity of the defect-modulated thermal behavior under pressure.
Production route analysis of a therapeutic radionuclide 177Lu
Authors: Rezaur Rahman A. K. M. , Amin Rifat
Published: September 2022

177Lu is used in medical research for various radiotheragnostic applications in nuclear medicine because of its various isotope properties. In this paper, we calculated the cross sections and production yields of the Lu isotope from different reactions X+176,174Lu and X+176Lu in energy levels from 0.001 to 100 MeV by using TALYS-1.96 and EMPIRE-3.2.2. Although n, d, and t reactions show an outstanding cross-section performance, α and t reactions show very impactful integral yield data. For the potential outcomes, these estimates are analyzed by comparing them to TENDL-2019 and EMPIRE-3.2.2.
MOF-derived nanoporous carbon with embedded cobalt nanoparticles as interlayer for high-performance Li–S batteries
Authors: Xu Juan , Lin Zheng , Huang Xingrun , Lei Yuan , Chen Chao , Lin Zhan
Published: September 2022

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) battery is one of the promising energy storage systems due to its high theoretical energy density with low cost. The main challenge at present for its commercialization is the polysulfides shuttling, leading to poor cycling performance. Here, we report a facilely prepared metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived nanoporous carbon with embedded cobalt nanoparticles (NPCo/C) for alleviating the polysulfides shuttling. The NPCo/C with large surface area and abundant Co nanoparticles is simply prepared by direct carbonization of a Co-based MOF material, which is combined with graphene to construct a robust membrane as the interlayer (NPCo/C@G) to modify the pristine separator. The NPCo/C@G-modified separator gives the battery good cycling stability (707 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 0.5 C) and rate performance (capacity decay rate of 0.18% in 300 cycles at 2 C). Excellent battery performance (620 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.5 C) is exhibited even under ultra-low loading of NPCo/C@G (0.08 mg cm−2). The superior electrochemical performance is mainly attributed to abundant exposed Co active sites in NPCo/C to immobilize polysulfides and accelerate sulfur redox kinetics as well as excellent electrical conductivity of NPCo/C@G for improved sulfur utilization. This study provides a guidance for designing functional separators for Li–S battery application in the near future.
Far-field sub-diffraction optical imaging using near-field illumination by optoplasmonic hybrid materials
Authors: Wang Jianguo , Cao Yurong , Yang Songlin , Ye Yong-Hong
Published: September 2022

Here, we propose a method to fabricate large-scale optoplasmonic hybrid materials (OHMs) as a near-field illumination source for sub-diffraction imaging through a traditional optical microscope. An OHM is comprised of a metal/dielectric multilayer coated substrate and a microcylinder (MC) placed on top of the multilayer. Under the dark-field illumination of a traditional optical microscope, the photonic nanojet (PNJ) generated by the MC and the electric field produced on the substrate surface by the photonic–plasmonic interaction work as the near-field illumination source for an object placed on the substrate near the PNJ. High spatial frequencies of the object can be shifted to the passband of the optical microscope and weak scattering signals of the object can be enhanced upon the near-field illumination. Low-contrast objects, such as a 300-nm-diameter SiO2 nanoparticle array, two 100-nm-diameter polystyrene nanoparticles spaced ∼86 nm apart, and Escherichia coli can be resolved using the optical microscope. In addition, the field of view (FOV) is rectangular, the length of the FOV depends on the length of the MC, and the width relates to the diameter of the MC. The proposed method is wide-field, label-free, direct, noninvasive, and far-field, and it presents the potential of super-resolution imaging of unlabeled biological samples using a traditional optical microscope.
Structural and charge transfer properties of ion intercalated 2D and bulk ice
Authors: Ghasemi S. , Ketabi S. A. , Neek-Amal M.
Published: September 2022

Ion trapping at the nanoscale within low-dimensional and bulk ice and their corresponding hydration properties are studied using ab initio techniques. We study the structural and charge transfer properties of ion intercalated two-dimensional (2D) and bulk ice and the corresponding ion hydration properties. We found that (i) the nanochannel size and ionic radius are two important factors that control the spatial distribution of hydrated ions, (ii) the alkali metal and halide ions are located in the center of the graphene-made nanochannel of size ≃6.5 Å, whereas in the nanochannel with size ≃9 Å, large (K+, Rb+, Cl−, Br−, and I−) and small (Li+, Na+, and F−) ions are located in different positions, (iii) the binding energy decreases with increase in the ionic radius, (iv) the hydration of ions decreases for large ions within 2D ice, giving a reduction in coordination number and allowing dehydration of large ions, and (v) the charge transfer mechanism is found to be different for large and small ions.
Methods and Calculations in Environmental Physics
Authors: Vallero Daniel A.
Published: September 2022

Methods and Calculations in Environmental Physics refreshes and introduces the basics of physics for those trained in other disciplines who apply physics in their work and research. This book examines a range of topical environmental challenges from a physics perspective, addressing them as both forward and inverse problems. Readers are then able to see cause-and-effect relationships from the full range of physical principles and factors.

Comprehensive coverage includes:An interdisciplinary and systems approach to topics including systems dynamics, toxicology, risk exposure, and pollution controlA focus on many aspects of environmental problems from the perspective of the physicistRelationships between environmental physics, chemistry, and biology

Methods and Calculations in Environmental Physics is an invaluable resource for practicing environmental enginteers and scientists, graduate students in environmental programs, and undergraduates in engineering, biology, and ecology.
Applications and Calculations in Environmental Physics
Authors: Vallero Daniel A.
Published: September 2022

Applications and Calculations in Environmental Physics addresses environmental pollution and its effects on human health and ecosystem conditions. It explores how all organisms respond to exposures to pollutants at the cellular level. The book describes in detail the science, engineering, and technologies needed to measure, remove, and treat pollutants and concludes with a forecast of some of the pollutants and problems that will emerge in the coming decades.

This important book:Describes the role physics plays in all types of environmental scenarios including laws, theories and principles of thermodynamics, and fluid dynamicsAddresses real-life problems and solutions for pollutants in the air, water, soil, or sediment, and in the human body and other organismsIncludes discussions of pollutant and nutrient transport, transformation, fate, and cycling through myriad ecosystems at every scale

Applications and Calculations in Environmental Physics is for professionals and researchers in environmental science, engineering, ecology, epidemiology, pharmacology, geology, land use planning, and soil science. Students and faculty and those interested in learning more about physical sciences such as physicians, attorneys, economists, and insurance auditors will also find it useful.
Multilevel development of cognitive abilities in an artificial neural network
Authors: Volzhenin Konstantin , Changeux Jean-Pierre , Dumas Guillaume
Published: September 2022

Several neuronal mechanisms have been proposed to account for the formation of cognitive abilities through postnatal interactions with the physical and sociocultural environment. Here, we introduce a three-level computational model of information processing and acquisition of cognitive abilities. We propose minimal architectural requirements to build these levels, and how the parameters affect their performance and relationships. The first sensorimotor level handles local nonconscious processing, here during a visual classification task. The second level or cognitive level globally integrates the information from multiple local processors via long-ranged connections and synthesizes it in a global, but still nonconscious, manner. The third and cognitively highest level handles the information globally and consciously. It is based on the global neuronal workspace (GNW) theory and is referred to as the conscious level. We use the trace and delay conditioning tasks to, respectively, challenge the second and third levels. Results first highlight the necessity of epigenesis through the selection and stabilization of synapses at both local and global scales to allow the network to solve the first two tasks. At the global scale, dopamine appears necessary to properly provide credit assignment despite the temporal delay between perception and reward. At the third level, the presence of interneurons becomes necessary to maintain a self-sustained representation within the GNW in the absence of sensory input. Finally, while balanced spontaneous intrinsic activity facilitates epigenesis at both local and global scales, the balanced excitatory/inhibitory ratio increases performance. We discuss the plausibility of the model in both neurodevelopmental and artificial intelligence terms.
Oncogenic β-catenin stimulation of AKT2–CAD-mediated pyrimidine synthesis is targetable vulnerability in liver cancer
Authors: Liu Fangming , Gai Xiaochen , Wu Yuting , Zhang Baohui , Wu Xiaoyu , Cheng Rongrong , Tang Bufu , Shang Kezhuo , Zhao Na , Deng Weiwei , Chen Jie , Zhang Zhengyi , Gu Song , Zheng Liang , Zhang Hongbing
Published: September 2022

CTNNB1
, encoding β-catenin protein, is the most frequently altered proto-oncogene in hepatic neoplasms. In this study, we studied the significance and pathological mechanism of
CTNNB1
gain-of-function mutations in hepatocarcinogenesis. Activated β-catenin not only triggered hepatic tumorigenesis but also exacerbated
Tp53
deletion or hepatitis B virus infection–mediated liver cancer development in mouse models. Using untargeted metabolomic profiling, we identified boosted de novo pyrimidine synthesis as the major metabolic aberration in β-catenin mutant cell lines and livers. Oncogenic β-catenin transcriptionally stimulated AKT2, which then phosphorylated the rate-limiting de novo pyrimidine synthesis enzyme CAD (carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamoylase, dihydroorotase) on S1406 and S1859 to potentiate nucleotide synthesis. Moreover, inhibition of β-catenin/AKT2-stimulated pyrimidine synthesis axis preferentially repressed β-catenin mutant cell proliferation and tumor formation. Therefore, β-catenin active mutations are oncogenic in various preclinical liver cancer models. Stimulation of β-catenin/AKT2/CAD signaling cascade on pyrimidine synthesis is an essential and druggable vulnerability for β-catenin mutant liver cancer.
Single-particle studies of the effects of RNA–protein interactions on the self-assembly of RNA virus particles
Authors: Garmann Rees F. , Goldfain Aaron M. , Tanimoto Cheylene R. , Beren Christian E. , Vasquez Fernando F. , Villarreal Daniel A. , Knobler Charles M. , Gelbart William M. , Manoharan Vinothan N.
Published: September 2022

Understanding the pathways by which simple RNA viruses self-assemble from their coat proteins and RNA is of practical and fundamental interest. Although RNA–protein interactions are thought to play a critical role in the assembly, our understanding of their effects is limited because the assembly process is difficult to observe directly. We address this problem by using interferometric scattering microscopy, a sensitive optical technique with high dynamic range, to follow the in vitro assembly kinetics of more than 500 individual particles of brome mosaic virus (BMV)—for which RNA–protein interactions can be controlled by varying the ionic strength of the buffer. We find that when RNA–protein interactions are weak, BMV assembles by a nucleation-and-growth pathway in which a small cluster of RNA-bound proteins must exceed a critical size before additional proteins can bind. As the strength of RNA–protein interactions increases, the nucleation time becomes shorter and more narrowly distributed, but the time to grow a capsid after nucleation is largely unaffected. These results suggest that the nucleation rate is controlled by RNA–protein interactions, while the growth process is driven less by RNA–protein interactions and more by protein–protein interactions and intraprotein forces. The nucleated pathway observed with the plant virus BMV is strikingly similar to that previously observed with bacteriophage MS2, a phylogenetically distinct virus with a different host kingdom. These results raise the possibility that nucleated assembly pathways might be common to other RNA viruses.
Transition metal dichalcogenide nanospheres for high-refractive-index nanophotonics and biomedical theranostics
Authors: Tselikov Gleb I. , Ermolaev Georgy A. , Popov Anton A. , Tikhonowski Gleb V. , Panova Daria A. , Taradin Alexey S. , Vyshnevyy Andrey A. , Syuy Alexander V. , Klimentov Sergey M. , Novikov Sergey M. , Evlyukhin Andrey B. , Kabashin Andrei V. , Arsenin Aleksey V. , Novoselov Kostya S. , Volkov Valentyn S.
Published: September 2022

Recent developments in the area of resonant dielectric nanostructures have created attractive opportunities for concentrating and manipulating light at the nanoscale and the establishment of the new exciting field of all-dielectric nanophotonics. Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) with nanopatterned surfaces are especially promising for these tasks. Still, the fabrication of these structures requires sophisticated lithographic processes, drastically complicating application prospects. To bridge this gap and broaden the application scope of TMDC nanomaterials, we report here femtosecond laser-ablative fabrication of water-dispersed spherical TMDC (MoS
2
and WS
2
) nanoparticles (NPs) of variable size (5 to 250 nm). Such NPs demonstrate exciting optical and electronic properties inherited from TMDC crystals, due to preserved crystalline structure, which offers a unique combination of pronounced excitonic response and high refractive index value, making possible a strong concentration of electromagnetic field in the NPs. Furthermore, such NPs offer additional tunability due to hybridization between the Mie and excitonic resonances. Such properties bring to life a number of nontrivial effects, including enhanced photoabsorption and photothermal conversion. As an illustration, we demonstrate that the NPs exhibit a very strong photothermal response, much exceeding that of conventional dielectric nanoresonators based on Si. Being in a mobile colloidal state and exhibiting superior optical properties compared to other dielectric resonant structures, the synthesized TMDC NPs offer opportunities for the development of next-generation nanophotonic and nanotheranostic platforms, including photothermal therapy and multimodal bioimaging.
Functional determination of calcium-binding sites required for the activation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors
Authors: Arige Vikas , Terry Lara E. , Wagner Larry E. , Malik Sundeep , Baker Mariah R. , Fan Guizhen , Joseph Suresh K. , Serysheva Irina I. , Yule David I.
Published: September 2022

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP
3
Rs) initiate a diverse array of physiological responses by carefully orchestrating intracellular calcium (Ca
2+
) signals in response to various external cues. Notably, IP
3
R channel activity is determined by several obligatory factors, including IP
3
, Ca
2+
, and ATP. The critical basic amino acid residues in the N-terminal IP
3
-binding core (IBC) region that facilitate IP
3
binding are well characterized. In contrast, the residues conferring regulation by Ca
2+
have yet to be ascertained. Using comparative structural analysis of Ca
2+
-binding sites identified in two main families of intracellular Ca
2+
-release channels, ryanodine receptors (RyRs) and IP
3
Rs, we identified putative acidic residues coordinating Ca
2+
in the cytosolic calcium sensor region in IP
3
Rs. We determined the consequences of substituting putative Ca
2+
binding, acidic residues in IP
3
R family members. We show that the agonist-induced Ca
2+
release, single-channel open probability (P
0
), and Ca
2+
sensitivities are markedly altered when the negative charge on the conserved acidic side chain residues is neutralized. Remarkably, neutralizing the negatively charged side chain on two of the residues individually in the putative Ca
2+
-binding pocket shifted the Ca
2+
required to activate IP
3
R to higher concentrations, indicating that these residues likely are a component of the Ca
2+
activation site in IP
3
R. Taken together, our findings indicate that Ca
2+
binding to a well-conserved activation site is a common underlying mechanism resulting in increased channel activity shared by IP
3
Rs and RyRs.
Self-sacrificial tyrosine cleavage by an Fe:Mn oxygenase for the biosynthesis of
para
-aminobenzoate in
Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Manley Olivia M. , Phan Han N. , Stewart Allison K. , Mosley Dontae A. , Xue Shan , Cha Lide , Bai Hongxia , Lightfoot Veda C. , Rucker Pierson A. , Collins Leonard , Williams Taufika Islam , Chang Wei-Chen , Guo Yisong , Makris Thomas M.
Published: September 2022

Chlamydia protein associating with death domains (CADD) is involved in the biosynthesis of
para
-aminobenzoate (pABA), an essential component of the folate cofactor that is required for the survival and proliferation of the human pathogen
Chlamydia trachomatis
. The pathway used by
Chlamydiae
for pABA synthesis differs from the canonical multi-enzyme pathway used by most bacteria that relies on chorismate as a metabolic precursor. Rather, recent work showed pABA formation by CADD derives from
l
-tyrosine. As a member of the emerging superfamily of heme oxygenase–like diiron oxidases (HDOs), CADD was proposed to use a diiron cofactor for catalysis. However, we report maximal pABA formation by CADD occurs upon the addition of both iron and manganese, which implicates a heterobimetallic Fe:Mn cluster is the catalytically active form. Isotopic labeling experiments and proteomics studies show that CADD generates pABA from a protein-derived tyrosine (Tyr27), a residue that is ∼14 Å from the dimetal site. We propose that this self-sacrificial reaction occurs through O
2
activation by a probable Fe:Mn cluster through a radical relay mechanism that connects to the “substrate” Tyr, followed by amination and direct oxygen insertion. These results provide the molecular basis for pABA formation in
C. trachomatis
, which will inform the design of novel therapeutics.
Investigation of the middle-energy region of the above-threshold ionization spectrum in a few-cycle laser field
Authors: Guo Li , Chen Shi , Hu Shilin , Lu Ronghua , Han Shensheng , Zhang Jingtao , Chen Jing
Published: September 2022

We use the improved strong-field approximation (ISFA) theory to investigate the evolution of the energy spectra with the carrier-envelope phase (CEP) of a few-cycle laser pulse. The theoretical calculations are consistent with the experimental measurements performed by Lindner et al (2005 Phys. Rev. Lett.
95 040401) which can be attributed to the scattering electrons whose ionization rates are modulated by the CEP of the laser pulse. We further investigate the dynamic behavior of the relevant scattering electrons by a Wigner distribution-like function based on the ISFA. Our analysis indicates that the zeroth-return forward-scattering electrons that move directly to the parent ion after tunneling and scatter forward with the parent core play a key role in the energy range of 2U

p
∼ 4U

p
and the backward-scattering electrons are responsible for the high-energy region. Meanwhile, it is found that the contribution of the second-return backward-scattering electron to the middle energy spectrum is also important in the few-cycle laser field case.
Fabrication of folic acid-conjugated chitosan-coated PLGA nanoparticles for targeted delivery of Peganum harmala smoke extract to breast cancer cells
Authors: Homayouni Tabrizi Masoud
Published: September 2022

In this study, PLGA-NPs coated with folic acid-chitosan (PCF-NPs) loaded with Peganum harmala smoke extract (PSE) were synthesized (PSE-PCF-NPs), and their anti-cancer effects were evaluated. PSE-PCF-NPs were synthesized by the nanoprecipitation method and then characterized by DLS, SEM, and FTIR methods. HPLC and UV–vis spectroscopy were used to evaluate the PSE’s folic acid (FA) binding and encapsulation. PSE-PCF-NPs-mediated cell viability and apoptosis were investigated by MTT, qPCR, flow cytometry, AO/PI, and DAPI staining. Anti-oxidant properties of PSE-PCF-NPs were evaluated by ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and ROS. Angiogenic effects of PSE-PCF-NPs were assessed by CAM assay. The PSE-PCF-NPs (276.16 nm, PDI: 0.25, zeta-potential: +32.31 mV, FB: 67.6% and %EE: 89%) demonstrated selective toxicity on MCF-7 cells (IC50: 75.65 μg ml−1). The occurrence of apoptosis in MCF-7 cells was confirmed by up-regulation of P53, Cas-3, and Cas-9 genes, increased SubG1 phase cells, and the results of fluorescent staining. Scavenging free radicals, reducing iron ions, increasing intracellular ROS, and decreasing SOD gene confirmed the anti- and pro-oxidant effects of PSE-PCF-NPs outside and inside MCF-7 cells. Reduction of angiogenic factors in CAM assay showed the anti-angiogenic effects of PSE-PCF-NPs. PSE-PCF-NPs, due to their anti-cancer properties, can be considered a therapeutic agent in cancer studies.
A note on the trade-off relationships of steering and Bell inequalities and the maximal mean values of Śliwa inequalities
Authors: Wang Jing , Sun Ling-Yun , Xu Li , Zhu Xue-Na , Li Ming
Published: September 2022

The detection of quantum correlations and the trade-off relationships of correlation resources in multi-partite systems are vitally important in quantum information theory. We present the trade-off relation of any quantum state with respect to the steering inequality and the trade-off relation of generalized Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger state with respect to the Mermin inequality. We also provide a quantitative analysis of the allocation of associated resources in multi-partite quantum systems. Computable formula of the maximal violation of the Śliwa inequality for any three-qubit state is presented.
Opportunities and challenges for antimicrobial nanostructured materials in the management of skin infections
Authors: Arruebo Manuel
Published: September 2022

The management of skin and soft-tissue infections represents a burden for healthcare systems worldwide, demanding additional scientific efforts. Despite combined advances in modern medicine from different disciplines, chronic non-healing topical wounds still represent an unresolved clinical challenge. Nanotechnology has contributed significantly to the development of advanced therapeutic and diagnostic approaches in wound care. From this perspective, recommendations on the design of nano-based approaches for the management of infected non-healing chronic wounds are suggested. Preclinical results have demonstrated that nanostructured antimicrobial-loaded dressings and hydrogels can reduce the pathogenic bioburden and can restore the wound’s physiological balance. Future clinical trials that ensure meaningful results are recommended.
Mass transfer techniques for large-scale and high-density microLED arrays
Authors: Chen Furong , Bian Jing , Hu Jinlong , Sun Ningning , Yang Biao , Ling Hong , Yu Haiyang , Wang Kaixin , Gai Mengxin , Ma Yuhang , Huang YongAn
Published: September 2022

Inorganic-based micro light-emitting diodes (microLEDs) offer more fascinating properties and unique demands in next-generation displays. However, the small size of the microLED chip (1–100 µm) makes it extremely challenging for high efficiency and low cost to accurately, selectively, integrate millions of microLED chips. Recent impressive technological advances have overcome the drawbacks of traditional pick-and-place techniques when they were utilized in the assembly of microLED display, including the most broadly recognized laser lift-off technique, contact micro-transfer printing (µTP) technique, laser non-contact µTP technique, and self-assembly technique. Herein, we firstly review the key developments in mass transfer technique and highlight their potential value, covering both the state-of-the-art devices and requirements for mass transfer in the assembly of the ultra-large-area display and virtual reality glasses. We begin with the significant challenges and the brief history of mass transfer technique, and expand that mass transfer technique is composed of two major techniques, namely, the epitaxial Lift-off technique and the pick-and-place technique. The basic concept and transfer effects for each representative epitaxial Lift-off and pick-and-place technique in mass transfer are then overviewed separately. Finally, the potential challenges and future research directions of mass transfer are discussed.
Development of a Human Immunodeficiency Virus Risk Prediction Model Using Electronic Health Record Data From an Academic Health System in the Southern United States
Authors: Burns Charles M , Pung Leland , Witt Daniel , Gao Michael , Sendak Mark , Balu Suresh , Krakower Douglas , Marcus Julia L , Okeke Nwora Lance , Clement Meredith E
Published: September 2022

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is underutilized in the southern United States. Rapid identification of individuals vulnerable to diagnosis of HIV using electronic health record (EHR)-based tools may augment PrEP uptake in the region.

Methods

Using machine learning, we developed EHR-based models to predict incident HIV diagnosis as a surrogate for PrEP candidacy. We included patients from a southern medical system with encounters between October 2014 and August 2016, training the model to predict incident HIV diagnosis between September 2016 and August 2018. We obtained 74 EHR variables as potential predictors. We compared Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) versus least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression models, and assessed performance, overall and among women, using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and area under precision recall curve (AUPRC).

Results

Of 998 787 eligible patients, 162 had an incident HIV diagnosis, of whom 49 were women. The XGBoost model outperformed the LASSO model for the total cohort, achieving an AUROC of 0.89 and AUPRC of 0.01. The female-only cohort XGBoost model resulted in an AUROC of 0.78 and AUPRC of 0.00025. The most predictive variables for the overall cohort were race, sex, and male partner. The strongest positive predictors for the female-only cohort were history of pelvic inflammatory disease, drug use, and tobacco use.

Conclusions

Our machine-learning models were able to effectively predict incident HIV diagnoses including among women. This study establishes feasibility of using these models to identify persons most suitable for PrEP in the South.
Urinary angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and metabolomics in COVID-19-mediated kidney injury
Authors: Vergara Ander , Wang Kaiming , Colombo Daniele , Gheblawi Mahmoud , Rasmuson Jaslyn , Mandal Rupasri , Del Nonno Franca , Chiu Brian , Scholey James W , Soler María José , Wishart David S , Oudit Gavin Y
Published: September 2022

Background

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is highly expressed in the kidneys. Beyond serving as a crucial endogenous regulator of the renin–angiotensin system, ACE2 also possess a unique function to facilitate amino acid absorption. Our observational study sought to explore the relationship between urine ACE2 (uACE2) and renal outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods

In a cohort of 104 patients with COVID-19 without acute kidney injury (AKI), 43 patients with COVID-19-mediated AKI and 36 non-COVID-19 controls, we measured uACE2, urine tumour necrosis factor receptors I and II (uTNF-RI and uTNF-RII) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL). We also assessed ACE2 staining in autopsy kidney samples and generated a propensity score–matched subgroup of patients to perform a targeted urine metabolomic study to describe the characteristic signature of COVID-19.

Results

uACE2 is increased in patients with COVID-19 and further increased in those that developed AKI. After adjusting uACE2 levels for age, sex and previous comorbidities, increased uACE2 was independently associated with a >3-fold higher risk of developing AKI [odds ratio 3.05 (95% confidence interval 1.23‒7.58), P = .017]. Increased uACE2 corresponded to a tubular loss of ACE2 in kidney sections and strongly correlated with uTNF-RI and uTNF-RII. Urine quantitative metabolome analysis revealed an increased excretion of essential amino acids in patients with COVID-19, including leucine, isoleucine, tryptophan and phenylalanine. Additionally, a strong correlation was observed between urine amino acids and uACE2.

Conclusions

Elevated uACE2 is related to AKI in patients with COVID-19. The loss of tubular ACE2 during SARS-CoV-2 infection demonstrates a potential link between aminoaciduria and proximal tubular injury.
Cholesterol not particle concentration mediates the atherogenic risk conferred by apolipoprotein B particles: a Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Helgadottir Anna , Thorleifsson Gudmar , Snaebjarnarson Audunn , Stefansdottir Lilja , Sveinbjornsson Gardar , Tragante Vinicius , Björnsson Eyþór , Steinthorsdottir Valgerdur , Gretarsdottir Solveig , Helgason Hannes , Saemundsdottir Jona , Olafsson Isleifur , Thune Jens Jakob , Raja Anna Axelsson , Ghouse Jonas , Olesen Morten Salling , Christensen Alex , Jacobsen Rikke Louise , Dowsett Joseph , Bruun Mie Topholm , Nielsen Kaspar , Knowlton Kirk , Nadauld Lincoln , Benediktsson Rafn , Erikstrup Christian , Pedersen Ole B , Banasik Karina , Brunak Søren ,   DBDS Genomic Consortium, Andersen Steffen , Banasik Karina , Brunak Søren , Burgdorf Kristoffer , Didriksen Maria , Dinh Khoa Manh , Erikstrup Christian , Gudbjartsson Daniel , Hansen Thomas Folkmann , Hjalgrim Henrik , Jemec Gregor , Jennum Poul , Johansson Pär Ingemar , Larsen Margit Anita Hørup , Mikkelsen Susan , Nielsen Kasper Rene , Nyegaard Mette , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Pedersen Ole Birger , Stefansson Kari , Stefánsson Hreinn , Sækmose Susanne , Sørensen Erik , Þorsteinsdóttir Unnur , Brun Mie Topholm , Ullum Henrik , Werge Thomas , Bundgaard Henning , Ostrowski Sisse R , Sulem Patrick , Arnar David O , Thorgeirsson Gudmundur , Thorsteinsdottir Unnur , Gudbjartsson Daniel F , Stefansson Kari , Holm Hilma
Published: September 2022

Background and aims

The causal contribution of apolipoprotein B (apoB) particles to coronary artery disease (CAD) is established. We examined whether this atherogenic contribution is better reflected by non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) or apoB particle concentration.

Method and results

We performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using 235 variants as genetic instruments; testing the relationship between their effects on the exposures, non-HDL-C and apoB, and on the outcome CAD using weighted regression. Variant effect estimates on the exposures came from the UK Biobank (N = 376 336) and on the outcome from a meta-analysis of five CAD datasets (187 451 cases and 793 315 controls). Subsequently, we carried out sensitivity and replication analyses.

In univariate MR analysis, both exposures associated with CAD (βnon-HDL-C = 0.40, P = 2.8 × 10−48 and βapoB = 0.38, P = 1.3 × 10−44). Adding effects on non-HDL-C into a model that already included those on apoB significantly improved the genetically predicted CAD effects (P = 3.9 × 10−5), while adding apoB into the model including non-HDL-C did not (P = 0.69). Thirty-five per cent (82/235) of the variants used as genetic instruments had discordant effects on the exposures, associating with non-HDL-C/apoB ratio at P < 2.1 × 10−4 (0.05/235). Fifty-one variants associated at genome-wide significance.

Conclusion

Many sequence variants have discordant effects on non-HDL-C and apoB. These variants allowed us to show that the causal mechanism underlying the relationship between apolipoprotein B particles and CAD is more associated with non-HDL-C than apoB particle concentration.
Mechanically robust bamboo node and its hierarchically fibrous structural design
Authors: Chen Si-Ming , Zhang Si-Chao , Gao Huai-Ling , Wang Quan , Zhou LiChuan , Zhao Hao-Yu , Li Xin-Yu , Gong Ming , Pan Xiao-Feng , Cui Chen , Wang Ze-Yu , Zhang YongLiang , Wu HengAn , Yu Shu-Hong
Published: September 2022

Although short bamboo nodes function in mechanical support and fluid exchange for bamboo survival, their structures are not fully understood compared to unidirectional fibrous internodes. Here, we identify the spatial heterostructure of the bamboo node via multiscale imaging strategies and investigate its mechanical properties by multimodal mechanical tests. We find three kinds of hierarchical fiber reinforcement schemes that originate from the bamboo node, including spatially tightened interlocking, triaxial interconnected scaffolding and isotropic intertwining. These reinforcement schemes, built on porous vascular bundles, microfibers and more-refined twist-aligned nanofibers, govern the structural stability of the bamboo via hierarchical toughening. In addition, the spatial liquid transport associated with these multiscale fibers within the bamboo node is experimentally verified, which gives perceptible evidence for life-indispensable multidirectional fluid exchange. The functional integration of mechanical reinforcement and liquid transport reflects the fact that the bamboo node has opted for elaborate structural optimization rather than ingredient richness. This study will advance our understanding of biological materials and provide insight into the design of fiber-reinforced structures and biomass utilization.
How does colonial heritage segment food markets? Evidence from rice consumers in Mauritania
Authors: Britwum Kofi , Demont Matty
Published: September 2022

Reducing Africa's dependence on Asian rice imports requires tailoring local rice products to food markets that are segmented by cultural heritage of ancient rice domestication and colonial heritage of more recent import substitution policies. Using experimental auctions, we examine quality upgrading and branding spillovers from Senegal by assessing the competitiveness of Senegalese vis-à-vis imported Asian rice products in an urban market in Mauritania. The Mauritanian rice market is mainly shaped by colonial heritage and is segmented into (i) elite White Hassanis, (ii) lower caste Black Hassanis, (iii) immigrants with colonial heritage, and (iv) a smaller group of immigrants with cultural heritage. While colonial heritage generally tends to incline consumers towards imported rice, local rice is preferred by Black Hassanis, older and more educated consumers, housewives, and wealthier families. This evidence can support policymakers and value chain actors in their efforts to spill over rice value chain upgrading between the Senegalese and Mauritanian river banks along the Senegal River Valley.
Efficacy of Long-Term Indomethacin Therapy in Prolonging Pregnancy After Fetoscopic Laser Surgery for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: A Collaborative Cohort Study
Authors: Mustafa H. J. , Krispin E. , Tadbiri H. , Espinoza J. , Shamshirsaz A. A. , Nassr A. A. , Donepudi R. , Belfort M. A. , Cortes M. S. , Pederson N. , Harman C. , Turan O. M.
Published: September 2022

(Abstracted from BJOG 2022;129:597–606)

Approximately 10% to 15% of monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies are affected by twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Fetoscopic laser surgery is recognized as the standard for treating such pregnancies.
Collaboration and Shared Decision-Making Between Patients and Clinicians in Preventive Health Care Decisions and US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendations
Authors: Davidson Karina W. , Mangione Carol M. , Barry Michael J. , Nicholson Wanda K. , Cabana Michael D. , Caughey Aaron B. , Davis Esa M. , Donahue Katrina E. , Doubeni Chyke A. , Kubik Martha , Li Li , Ogedegbe Gbenga , Pbert Lori , Silverstein Michael , Stevermer James , Tseng Chien-Wen , Wong John B.
Published: September 2022

(Abstracted from JAMA 2022;327:1171–1176)

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) places high value on the right of patients to be informed about and to participate in personal health care decisions. In US health care, this right is regarded as a core value both in terms of decisions regarding prevention and interventions delivered to patients not seeking targeted condition care.
Patterns of Sexual Activity and the Development of Sexual Pain Across the Menopausal Transition
Authors: Waetjen L. Elaine , Johnson Wesley O. , Xing Guibo , Hess Rachel , Avis Nancy E. , Reed Barbara D. , Dugan Sheila A. , Neal-Perry Genevieve , Gold Ellen B. ,   for the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN)
Published: September 2022

(Abstracted from Obstet Gynecol 2022;139:1130–1140)

A frequently reported symptom in mid-life and older women is painful intercourse. Prevalence estimates range from 20% to 59% in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.
Sperm Selection With Hyaluronic Acid Improved Live Birth Outcomes Among Older Couples and Was Connected to Sperm DNA Quality, Potentially Affecting All Treatment Outcomes
Authors: West Robert , Coomarasamy Arri , Frew Lorraine , Hutton Rachel , Kirkman-Brown Jackson , Lawlor Martin , Lewis Sheena , Partanen Riitta , Payne-Dwyer Alex , Román-Montañana Claudia , Torabi Forough , Tsagdi Sofia , Miller David
Published: September 2022

(Abstracted from Hum Reprod 2022;37:1106–1125)

With intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), many natural barriers that would normally prevent the entry of abnormal sperm are lost, increasing the importance of sperm DNA integrity for successful in vitro fertilization. There is currently no consensus on the optimal assay for measuring sperm DNA quality (DNAq), defined as any structural aspect of sperm chromatin that can compromise function if disrupted.
Resources for Patient Mental Health and Well-being after Orthopaedic Trauma
Authors: Obey Mitchel R. , Miller Anna N.
Published: September 2022

Orthopaedic trauma is an unanticipated life-altering experience for patients. Additionally, the prevalence of psychiatric disorders has been found to be higher in patients with trauma than in the general adult population. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, or posttraumatic stress disorder have been reported in up to 56% of patients throughout their postoperative course. Furthermore, symptoms of any one of these illnesses have been consistently associated with worse patient outcomes after treatment of traumatic orthopaedic injuries. This includes increased levels of pain and disability, postoperative complications, and, in some cases, higher rates of hospital readmission. For most patients with trauma, focus is placed on physical therapy and rehabilitation in the acute postoperative setting to help patients regain function and strength; however, more recent studies have demonstrated equal importance of the social and psychological factors involved with trauma and their impact on outcomes. Therefore, it is essential for orthopaedic surgeons and other members of the care team to be adept in the screening and treatment of psychiatric disorders. For patients struggling with these conditions, several treatment resources exist, which can be used both during their admission and after discharge. Thus, earlier recognition and intervention with appropriate treatment and referrals should be emphasized to improve outcomes. This review discusses the social and psychological impacts of orthopaedic trauma on patients’ mental health and well-being and outlines numerous resources available to patients as they recover from their injuries.
Recovery After Musculoskeletal Injury: Mental and Social Health
Authors: Ring David
Published: September 2022

Recovery from injury involves painful movement and activity, painful stretches and muscle strengthening, and adjustment to permanent impairment. Recovery is facilitated by embracing the concept that painful movement can be healthy, which is easier when one has more hope, less worry, and greater social supports and security. Evolution of one's identity to match the new physical status is a hallmark of a healthy outcome and is largely determined by mental and social health factors. When infection, loss of alignment or fixation, and nerve issues or compartment syndrome are unlikely, greater discomfort and incapability that usual for a given pathology or stage of recovery signal opportunities for improved mental and social health. Surgeons may be the clinicians most qualified to make this discernment. A surgeon who has gained a patient's trust can start to noticed despair, worry, and unhelpful thinking such as fear of painful movement. Reorienting people to greater hope and security and a healthier interpretation of the pains associated with the body's recovery can be initiated by the surgeon and facilitated by social workers, psychologist, and physical, occupational and hand therapists trained in treatments that combine mental and physical therapies.
ODI <25 Denotes Patient Acceptable Symptom State After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Spine Surgery
Authors: Shahi Pratyush , Shinn Daniel , Singh Nishtha , Subramanian Tejas , Song Junho , Dalal Sidhant , Araghi Kasra , Melissaridou Dimitra , Sheha Evan , Dowdell James , Qureshi Sheeraz A. , Iyer Sravisht
Published: September 2022

Study Design.

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Objective.

To determine the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) cut-off for achieving patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) at 1 year following minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

An absolute score denoting PASS, rather than a change score denoting minimal clinically important difference (MCID), might be a better metric to assess clinical outcomes.

Methods.

Patients who underwent primary minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) or decompression were included. The outcome measure was ODI. The anchor question was the Global Rating Change (GRC): “Compared to preoperative, you feel 1) much better, 2) slightly better, 3) same, 4) slightly worse, or 5) much worse.” For analysis, it was collapsed to a dichotomous outcome variable (acceptable = response of 1 or 2, unacceptable = response of 3,4, or 5). Proportion of patients achieving PASS and the ODI cut-off using receiver operator curve (ROC) analyses were assessed for the overall cohort as well as subgroups based on age, gender, type of surgery, and preoperative ODI. Differences between the PASS and MCID metrics were analyzed.

Results.

137 patients were included. 87% of patients achieved PASS. Patients <65y and those undergoing fusion were more likely to achieve PASS. The ROC analysis revealed an ODI cut-off of 25.2 to achieve PASS (area under the curve, AUC: 0.872, sensitivity: 82%, specificity: 83%). The subgroup analyses based on age, gender, and preoperative ODI revealed AUCs >0.8 and ODI threshold values consistent between 25.2 and 25.5 (except 28.4 in patients with preoperative ODI >40). PASS was found to have significantly higher sensitivity compared to MCID (82% vs. 69%, P=0.01).

Conclusions.

Patients with ODI <25 are expected to achieve PASS, irrespective of age, gender, and preoperative disability. PASS was found to have significantly higher sensitivity than MCID.

Level of Evidence.

3