bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMP Report: An updated algorithm to estimate medical physics staffing levels for radiation oncology
Authors: Malkoske Kyle E. , Sixel Katharina E. , Hunter Robert , Battista Jerry J.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Medical physics staffing models require periodic review due to the rapid evolution of technology and clinical techniques in radiation oncology. We present an update to a grid‐based physics staffing algorithm for radiation oncology (originally published in 2012) that has been widely used in Canada over the last decade.

Materials and Methods

The physics staffing algorithm structure was modified to improve the clarity and consistency of input data. We collected information on clinical procedures, equipment inventory, and teaching activities from 15 radiation treatment centers in the province of Ontario from April 1, 2018, to March 31, 2019. Using these data sets, the algorithm's weighting parameters were adjusted to align the prediction of full‐time equivalent (FTE) personnel with actual staffing levels in Ontario. The algorithm computes FTE estimates for medical physicists, physics assistants, engineering (electrical and mechanical), and information technology (IT) support. The performance of the algorithm was also tested in eight Canadian cancer centers outside of Ontario.

Results

The mean difference between the algorithm and actual staffing for the 23 Canadian cancer centers did not exceed 0.5 FTE for any staffing group. The results were slightly better in Ontario than in other provinces, as expected since the algorithm was optimized using Ontario data. There was a linear correlation between the algorithm predictions and the number of annual‐treated cases for physicists, and physicists plus physics assistants. For other staff categories, the algorithm weighting parameters were not significantly altered, except for a reduction in mechanical engineering staff. Comparison with other published models suggests that the updated algorithm should be considered as a minimum recommended staffing level for the clinical support of radiation oncology programs.

Conclusions

We support the use of grid‐based physics staffing algorithms that account for clinical workload with flexibility to adapt to local conditions with variable academic and research demands.
Mere exposure to dialogic framing enriches argumentive thinking
Authors: Kuhn Deanna , Modrek Anahid
Published: July 2021

Sixty college students either read a script of a dialog between two individuals holding contrasting positions on the issue of U.S. immigration or read texts containing their two individual position statements on the issue, expressing their same respective views. With this material removed from view, participants expressed in writing their own views on the issue. We asked whether exposure to the dialogic framing would have a greater effect on argumentive thinking, compared to non‐dialogic presentation of the same arguments. Essays of the two groups differed in several ways. The dialog group showed greater investment in the task by writing more. Additionally, 78% of the dialog group (vs. 48% of the individual‐position control group) made reference to the views they had read, despite no instruction to do so, over half referencing them in a comparative way (vs. 21% of the control group). The substance of the essays showed richer thought by the dialog group, including more “However” clauses (connecting two opposing statements) and more meta‐level statements about the issue itself, supporting the hypothesis of a benefit of dialogic framing. Theoretical and educational implications are considered.
Advances in Biosensors and Diagnostic Technologies Using Nanostructures and Nanomaterials
Authors: Welch E. Celeste , Powell Jessica M. , Clevinger Tobias B. , Fairman Alexis E. , Shukla Anita
Published: July 2021

Nanoscale materials have unique properties that make them especially useful for biomedical diagnostic applications. Recent developments in nanoengineering have resulted in increasing use of nanostructures in biosensors. Various types of 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D nanostructures have been used to improve biosensor sensitivity, selectivity, limit of detection, and time to result, among other metrics. These nanostructures have been integrated into electrochemical, optical, and other biosensors for this purpose. Here, the most recent advances in the use of nanostructured materials in biosensors are described. This includes a discussion of nanoparticles, nanorods, nanofibers, nanopillars, nanowires, nanosheets, indented nanopatterns (nanoholes and nanoslits), nanogaps, nanochannels, nanopores, nanofunctionalized surfaces, and complex hierarchical structures and their unique advantages and applications in biosensors. Clinical applications of these nanobiosensors are also highlighted along with a discussion of the future directions for these materials in diagnostics.
A β”‐Alumina/Inorganic Ionic Liquid Dual Electrolyte for Intermediate‐Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Di , Hwang Jinkwang , Chen Chi‐yao , Kubota Keigo , Matsumoto Kazuhiko , Hagiwara Rika
Published: July 2021

Although sodium–sulfur (Na–S) batteries present the great prospects of high energy density, long cyclability, and sustainability, their deployment is heavily encumbered by safety, practicality, and versatility issues engendered by their high operating temperatures above 300 °C. Lowering the operating temperatures impedes the performance of Na–S batteries due to the formation of insulating S/polysulfides, diminished Na ion conduction in the β”‐alumina solid electrolyte (BASE), the Na metal dendrite growth at temperatures below its melting point, and the shuttle effect occurring in the absence of the BASE. Herein, a Na–S battery that integrates a dual electrolyte consisting of the BASE and a novel inorganic ionic liquid is proposed for intermediate‐temperature operations of 150 °C. Investigations reveal the ionic liquid to have high ionic conductivity, wide electrochemical window, and excellent thermal and chemical stability, making it propitious for intermediate‐temperature operations. The high reversible capacity of 795 mAh (g‐S)−1 at 0.1 mA (electrode area: 0.785 cm2) and an average capacity of 381 mAh (g‐S)−1 achieved over 1000 cycles at 0.5 mA validate the use of ionic liquids in dual electrolyte systems to improve Na–S performance.
Robust and Durable Superhydrophobic Polythiophene/SiO2 Coated Cotton Fabric for Versatile Oil–Water Separation
Authors: Bai Weibin , Lin Haimen , Chen Kunhui , Zeng Renping , Lin Yucai , Xu Yanlian
Published: July 2021

With the development of industrialization, environmental pollution problems (e.g., oily water discharge and oil spill accidents) are becoming increasingly severe. The efficient and economic treatments for oily sewage are urgently needed and remain a huge challenge. Here, a robust and durable superhydrophobic material with the contact angle above 160° is prepared by coating SiO2 particles/polythiophene on cotton fabrics through a sol–gel process and an oxidation coupling polymerization. The polythiophene/SiO2 coated cotton fabric displays excellent resistance to ultraviolet irradiation, high and low temperatures, acid and salt solution immersion, organic solvent immersion, and good mechanical abrasion durability, antidirt and antifrost properties. The modified fabric is successfully applied as a filter to separate oil–water mixtures by gravity with high separation efficiency and excellent reusability. Moreover, superhydrophobic absorbers can be easily prepared from common 3D porous materials such as a sponge wrapped with the modified fabric for the effective collection of oil. Both immiscible oil–water mixtures and emulsions (oil‐in‐water and water‐in‐oil) can be separated even under harsh conditions (acidic solution or artificial seawater). This work provides a facile and selectable solution to treat oily sewage and leads to new ways of efficient oil–water separation.
Nacre‐Inspired Biomineralized Mesh toward Scalable and Robust Oil–Water Separation with High Efficiency
Authors: Yu Shaokang , Chen Wei , Wang Yixuan , Zhao Ran , Zang Ruhua , Gu Jianmin , Meng Jingxin , Wang Shutao
Published: July 2021

The leakage of offshore crude oil and the discharge of industrial oily wastewater always bring great harm to human health and ecological environment. To solve these problems, advanced interfacial materials for oil–water separation have attracted wide attentions. However, most of these materials still have several disadvantages including complicated preparation process, low separation efficiency, and easy damage. Herein, a nacre‐inspired biomineralized mesh (NBM) with underwater superoleophobicity shows scalable and robust oil–water separation with high efficiency. Through the combination of dip coating and biomineralization, the NBM is readily scalable fabrication. Similar chemical components and micro‐nanostructures to the natural nacre endow the NBM with good mechanical properties. Furthermore, the NBM can resist to sand impingement and knife scratch along high efficiency of oil–water separation (≈99.9%) even after repeated use for 50 times, which may come from its high hardness and Young's modulus. Therefore, this study provides new insights for the scalable development of oil–water separation materials with high efficiency and robustness.
Importance of Long‐Range Channel Sr Displacements for the Narrow Emission in Sr[Li2Al2O2N2]:Eu2+Phosphor
Authors: Bouquiaux Julien , Poncé Samuel , Jia Yongchao , Miglio Anna , Mikami Masayoshi , Gonze Xavier
Published: July 2021

The recently discovered Sr[Li2Al2O2N2]:Eu2+red phosphor, candidate for the next generation of eco‐efficient white light‐emitting diodes, exhibits excellent emission spectral position and exceptionally small linewidth. It belongs to the UCr4C4‐structure family of phosphors containing many potential candidates for commercial phosphors, whose small linewidth, tentatively ascribed to the high‐symmetry cuboid environment of the doping site, has drawn the attention of researchers in the last five years. Density functional theory, ΔSCF method, and configuration coordinate models (CCM) are used to provide a complete characterization of this material. Using a multi‐dimensional CCM, an accurate description of the coupling of the vibronic structure with the electronic 5d→4f transition is obtained, including the partial Huang–Rhys factors and frequency of the dominant modes. It is shown that, in addition to the first‐coordination shell cuboid deformation mode, low‐frequency phonon modes involving chains of strontium atoms along the tetragonal axis shape the emission linewidth in Sr[Li2Al2O2N2]:Eu2+. This finding sheds new light on the emission properties of UCr4C4‐structure phosphors, possessing similar Ca/Sr/Ba channel. The approach provides a robust theoretical framework to systematically study the emission spectra of such Eu‐doped phosphors, and predict candidates with expected similar or even sharper linewidth.
Impacts of duo‐regional generic advertising of social media on consumer preference
Authors: Chen Xuqi , Heng Yan , Gao Zhifeng , Jiang Yuan
Published: July 2021

Generic advertising is commonly used to market agricultural products by groups of producers to increase the overall demand. With the popularity of social media, a cheaper and convenient alternative platform has been created for generic advertising. Despite social media advertising gaining success in some areas, little is known about whether this success can be duplicated to agricultural products. Questions also remain about potential benefits to producers when multiple organizations conduct generic advertising for the same or similar products. This study investigates the own and spillover effect of duo‐regional generic advertising of two grower organizations' (Florida and California) social media on consumer preference for fresh produce with different origins. Overall, a significant increase in willingness‐to‐pay is found for the products being promoted by social media, indicating a strong own effect of duo‐regional generic advertising. A substantial spillover effect of generic advertising is also found for social media conducted by California and Florida on domestic and imported products, correspondingly. Mexico receives a free‐rider benefit from the generic advertising provided by Florida social media. The results shed light on the industries that try to promote food products using social media and inform policy decisions on how to utilize generic advertising better to expand the market. [EconLit Citations: D10, D12].
The association between food outlet accessibility and market competition to household food expenditures: Empirical evidence from the convenience store industry in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Hung‐Hao , Lee Brian
Published: July 2021

Many studies document the importance of food outlet accessibility on household food expenditures. However, the role of market competition between commercial food outlets garners little attention in these studies. This paper provides the first evidence distinguishing between the association between food outlet accessibility and market competition among commercial food outlets on household food expenditures. Using administrative profiles on convenience stores and nationally representative repeated cross‐sectional household surveys from 2003 to 2016, we find that inter‐brand competition between convenience store chain brands is associated with total food, food at home, and food away from home expenditures in Taiwan. In contrast, food outlet accessibility has no significant correlation with household food expenditures after controlling for inter‐brand competition. [EconLit citations: Q13, L22].
Mobile money adoption, input use, and farm output among smallholder rice farmers in Ghana
Authors: Abdul‐Rahaman Awal , Abdulai Awudu
Published: July 2021

Financial exclusion continues to be a major challenge to smallholder farmers' participation in agricultural value chains in developing countries. Digitizing procurements and other forms of transactions using mobile money technology among value chain actors is essential for ensuring financial inclusion and enhancing agricultural value chain transformation. This study examines the factors influencing the adoption of mobile money technology and the impact of the technology on production input use and farm output, utilizing data from a cross‐sectional survey of smallholder rice farmers in northern Ghana. A linear regression with endogenous treatment effects method is employed to account for both observable and unobservable selection bias. The results reveal positive and significant marginal effect of mobile money technology on input use and farm output. Adopters of the technology applied 18% and 13% more fertilizer and herbicides, respectively than nonadopters. The output increased by about 4% for the adopters. The results also show that mobile money technology adoption, input use and farm output are significantly influenced by education, farmer‐based organization (FBO) membership, access to credit, input prices, and location fixed effects. Expansion of mobile technology networks, increased investment in education, credit facilities, and FBOs can be quite relevant in promoting the adoption of mobile money technology in Ghana. [EconLit citations: C34, C35, Q12, Q13]
Fundamental Modes of Swimming Correspond to Fundamental Modes of Shape: Engineering I‐, U‐, and S‐Shaped Swimmers
Authors: Sharan Priyanka , Maslen Charlie , Altunkeyik Berk , Rehor Ivan , Simmchen Juliane , Montenegro-Johnson Thomas D.
Published: July 2021

Hydrogels have received increased attention due to their biocompatible material properties, adjustable porosity, ease of functionalization, tuneable shape, and Young's moduli. Initial work has recognized the potential that conferring out‐of‐equilibrium properties to these on the microscale holds and envisions a broad range of biomedical applications. Herein, a simple strategy to integrate multiple swimming modes into catalase‐propelled hydrogel bodies, produced via stop‐flow lithography (SFL), is presented and the different dynamics that result from bubble expulsion are studied. It is found that for “Saturn” filaments, with active poles and an inert midpiece, the fundamental swimming modes correspond to the first three fundamental shape modes that can be obtained by buckling elastic filaments, namely, I, U, and S‐shapes.
Untethered Soft Robots for Future Planetary Explorations?
Authors: Ng Chelsea Shan Xian , Lum Guo Zhan
Published: July 2021

In recent years, robotic vehicles have been deployed for planetary exploration purposes, surveying extraterrestrial terrains in search for possible signs of life and also to learn more about these unfamiliar worlds. While deploying robotic technologies for such space missions represents a significant milestone for humanity, these untethered robots may have limited dexterity and robustness due to them having rigid bodies. Therefore, there is potential to send untethered soft robots that are far more dexterous, robust, and functional than their rigid counterparts for planetary explorations in the future. Herein, some of the key advantages of deploying untethered soft robots for future planetary explorations are discussed. Also, some brief insights into how the environmental conditions on extraterrestrial terrains may affect the actuation, fabrication, and locomotion of soft robots are provided. While the emerging soft robotics technology is still relatively young, it is envisioned that these untethered soft machines have great potential to help create a paradigm shift for future planetary exploration.
Iron‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Propargyl Ethers with Grignard Reagents for the Synthesis of Functionalized Allenes and Allenols
Authors: Posevins Daniels , Bermejo‐López Aitor , Bäckvall Jan‐E.
Published: July 2021

Herein we disclose an iron‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction of propargyl ethers with Grignard reagents. The reaction was demonstrated to be stereospecific and allows for a facile preparation of optically active allenes via efficient chirality transfer. Various tri‐ and tetrasubstituted fluoroalkyl allenes can be obtained in good to excellent yields. In addition, an iron‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of Grignard reagents with α‐alkynyl oxetanes and tetrahydrofurans is disclosed herein, which constitutes a straightforward approach towards fully substituted β‐ or γ‐allenols, respectively.
Nanoscale Advancement Continues—From Catalysts and Reagents to Restructuring of Reaction Media
Authors: Kashin Alexey S. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: July 2021

Comprehensive studies dedicated to the search for specific properties of matter at the micro‐ and nanoscales have greatly enriched the fields of chemistry and materials science. From the point of view of synthetic chemistry, discoveries in the field of nanoscale catalysis, in which the size effects of active centers are used to accelerate the reactions, are of particular importance. However, another approach for the promotion of chemical transformations based on the micro‐ or nanoconfinement of reacting molecules or even on the structuring of the reaction media as a whole is gaining interest as a highly valuable tool. Herein, we highlight the example of an increase in the efficiency of phenol alkylation and tert‐butylation of benzyl alcohol in reaction media based on ionic liquids by the creation of acidic microdomains in the presence of small molecule additives.
Funktionaler Schalter und Ethylgruppenbildung der Bakteriellen Polytrichastrensynthase aus Chryseobacterium polytrichastri
Authors: Hou Anwei , Goldfuss Bernd , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: July 2021

Eine erneute Untersuchung der Linaloolsynthase aus Chryseobacterium polytrichastri zeigte dessen Aktivität als Diterpensynthase, wodurch neben Wanju‐2,5‐dien und Thunbergol Polytrichastren A und Polytrichastrol A mit neuen Skeletten erhalten wurden. Der Enzymmechanismus wurde durch Isotopenmarkierungsexperimente und DFT‐Rechnungen untersucht, um eine ungewöhnliche Ethylgruppenbildung zu studieren. Rational ausgewählte Austausche von Residuen des aktiven Zentrums führten zu bedeutenden Funktionsänderungen und resultierten für I66F zur Produktion fünf weiterer neuer Verbindungen, einschließlich Polytrichastren B und Polytrichastrol B, während A87T, A192V und der doppelte Austausch A87T,A192V eine Produktverschiebung zu Wanju‐2,5‐dien ergaben.
Integrating Hydrogen Production and Transfer Hydrogenation with Selenite Promoted Electrooxidation of α‐Nitrotoluenes to E‐Nitroethenes
Authors: Chong Xiaodan , Liu Cuibo , Wang Changhong , Yang Rong , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2021

Developing an electrochemical carbon‐added reaction with accelerated kinetics to replace the low‐value and sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is markedly significant to pure hydrogen production. Regulating the critical steps to precisely design electrode materials to selectively synthesize targeted compounds is highly desirable. Here, inspired by the surfaced adsorbed SeOx2− promoting OER, NiSe is demonstrated to be an efficient anode enabling α‐nitrotoluene electrooxidation to E‐nitroethene with up to 99 % E selectivity, 89 % Faradaic efficiency, and the reaction rate of 0.25 mmol cm−2 h−1 via inhibiting side reactions for energy‐saving hydrogen generation. The high performance can be associated with its in situ formed NiOOH surface layer and absorbed SeOx2− via Se leaching‐oxidation during electrooxidation, and the preferential adsorption of two ‐NO2 groups of intermediate on NiOOH. A self‐coupling of α‐carbon radicals and subsequent elimination of a nitrite molecule pathway is proposed. Wide substrate scope, scale‐up synthesis of E‐nitroethene, and paired productions of E‐nitroethene and hydrogen or N‐protected aminoarenes over a bifunctional NiSe electrode highlight the promising potential. Gold also displays a similar promoting effect for α‐nitrotoluene transformation like SeOx2−, rationalizing the strategy of designing materials to suppress side reactions.
Conservation of aquatic insects in Neotropical regions: A gap analysis using potential distributions of diving beetles in Cuba
Authors: Megna Yoandri S. , Pallarés Susana , Sánchez‐Fernández David
Published: July 2021

Human activities are an increasing threat to Neotropical freshwater ecosystems, with the potential extinction of thousands of aquatic species. Despite this, knowledge about the effectiveness of protected area networks in protecting aquatic insects in this biogeographical region is very limited.

Cuba supports the highest diversity of aquatic insects in the Antilles, with a large number of endemics.

A gap analysis was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the National System of Protected Areas of Cuba (NSPAC) in the conservation of Cuban diving beetles (family Dytiscidae). This involved considering the areas with the highest potential species richness, estimated by using species distribution models with three different approaches (MaxEnt, Random Forest and Support Vector Machine), and the known localities of endemic species.

The highest potential species richness of Dytiscidae in Cuba is predicted to occur in the low–medium altitude of the eastern mountain areas. Although most of these areas occur inside the NSPAC, several areas of potential high species richness are currently unprotected. It is recommended that sampling programmes are carried out in areas with high predicted species richness to validate the species distribution models.

The distribution of three Cuban endemic species (Copelatus barbouri, Desmopachria glabella and Celina cubensis) lies completely outside of the NSPAC. Despite their conservation interest as threatened endemic species, they are currently unprotected.

To improve the conservation of freshwater biodiversity in Cuba it is recommended that (i) the NSPAC network is extended to protect areas supporting endemic species and those with the highest potential species richness that are currently unprotected, and (ii) a whole‐catchment management approach, specifically to maintain natural flows, should be adopted, especially in the mountainous areas of eastern Cuba.
Effect of Schwann cell transplantation combined with electroacupuncture on axonal regeneration and remyelination in rats with spinal cord injury
Authors: Tan Chengfang , Yang Cheng , Liu Hui , Tang Chenglin , Huang Siqin
Published: July 2021

Axonal impairment and demyelination after compressed spinal cord injury lead to serious neurological dysfunction. Increasing studies have suggested that Schwann cells (SCs) transplantation is a reliable, effective, and promising method for treating spinal cord injury. However, single SCs transplantation is insufficient to promote the full recovery of neurological function. Additional approaches are required to support SCs transplantation as a treatment for spinal cord injury. In the study, we investigated whether the combination of electroacupuncture (EA) and SCs transplantation was a reliable intervention for spinal cord injury. We found that rats in the combination group had significantly higher functional locomotor scores than those received single treatment. By immunostaining, we found EA can not only improve survival and proliferation of transplanted SCs but also inhibit SC apoptosis and block the formation of an astrocytic scar. Additionally, EA promoted regenerated axons extending “bullet‐shaped” growth cones into the lesion. Remarkably, EA can modify astrogliosis to promote axonal regeneration following SCs transplantation through inducing extension of astrocytic processes in the SCs graft interface. More importantly, the combination of SCs engraftment and EA can enhance corticospinal‐tract axonal regeneration and remyelination after spinal cord injury through up‐regulating neuregulin 1 type III in SCs and its downstream signaling mediators. Thus, it is concluded that SCs effectively promote axonal recovery after spinal cord injury when combined with EA stimulation. The experimental results have reinforced the theoretical basis of EA for its clinical efficacy in patients with spinal cord injury and merited further investigation for potential clinical application.
Farm‐to‐fire analysis of karanja biodiesel
Authors: Mishra Anurag , Thangaraj R Arjun , Mehta Pramod S.
Published: July 2021

This paper analyzes the energy and environmental impact of karanja biodiesel fuel from its production to its utilization (farm to fire), using a life‐cycle assessment method, and comparing it with its fossil diesel counterpart. For this purpose, the net energy ratio, the net energy gain, and the equivalent carbon dioxide (CO2) emission reduction are estimated considering the equivalent energy impacts and CO2 emissions of important input and output quantities. The expressions for estimating equivalent CO2 reduction in production to utilization process are obtained by considering the CO2 absorption capacity of the biodiesel plant. The effects of the eutrophication and acidification potential during the life cycle of the crop are also considered. A sensitivity analysis of the most influential parameters on net energy ratio and CO2 emission reduction is conducted. The analysis shows that the biodiesel yield from seeds and the yield of co‐products are the two critical parameters affecting the net energy ratio. Similarly, the equivalent CO2 emission reduction potential of the karanja biodiesel depends primarily on the brake thermal efficiency and energy equivalent CO2 emission of biodiesel fueled engine combustion. A techno‐economic evaluation of the production of karanja biodiesel for different plant sizes and cost‐recovery periods is also made. The economics of the production of karanja biodiesel, considering different plant sizes and cost recovery periods, suggests that the price of biodiesel decreased for a higher capacity biodiesel plant and a longer cost‐recovery period. Beside these factors, the price of feedstock remains a most significant component of cost estimates. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Promoters are key organizers of the duplication of vertebrate genomes
Authors: Brossas Caroline , Duriez Bénédicte , Valton Anne‐Laure , Prioleau Marie‐Noëlle
Published: July 2021

In vertebrates, single cell analyses of replication timing patterns brought to light a very well controlled program suggesting a tight regulation on initiation sites. Mapping of replication origins with different methods has revealed discrete preferential sites, enriched in promoters and potential G‐quadruplex motifs, which can aggregate into initiation zones spanning several tens of kilobases (kb). Another characteristic of replication origins is a nucleosome‐free region (NFR). A modified yeast strain containing a humanized origin recognition complex (ORC) fires new origins at NFRs revealing their regulatory role. In cooperation with NFRs, the histone variant H2A.Z facilitates ORC loading through di‐methylation of lysine 20 of histone H4. Recent studies using genome editing methods show that efficient initiation sites associated with transcriptional activity can synergize over several tens of kb by establishing physical contacts and lead to the formation of early domains of DNA replication demonstrating a co‐regulation between replication initiation and transcription.
Adaptive local false discovery rate procedures for highly spiky data and their application RNA sequencing data of yeastSET4deletion mutants
Authors: Ramos Mark Louie , Park DoHwan , Lim Johan , Park Junyong , Tran Khoa , Garcia Eric Joshua , Green Erin
Published: July 2021

Chromatin dynamics are central to the regulation of gene expression and genome stability. In order to improve understanding of the factors regulating chromatin dynamics, the genes encoding these factors are deleted and the differential gene expression profiles are determined using approaches such as RNA sequencing. Here, we analyzed a gene expression dataset aimed at uncovering the function of the relatively uncharacterized chromatin regulator, Set4, in the model systemSaccharomyces cerevisiae(budding yeast). The main theme of this paper focuses on identifying the highly differentially expressed genes in cells deleted for Set4 (referred to as Set4mutant dataset) compared to the wild‐type yeast cells. The Set4mutant data produce a spiky distribution on the log‐fold changes of their expressions, and it is reasonably assumed that genes which are not highly differentially expressed come from a mixture of two normal distributions. We propose an adaptive local false discovery rate (FDR) procedure, which estimates the null distribution of the log‐fold changes empirically. We numerically show that, unlike existing approaches, our proposed method controls FDR at the aimed level (0.05) and also has competitive power in finding differentially expressed genes. Finally, we apply our procedure to analyzing the Set4mutant dataset.
A systematic review of empirical intraverbal research: 2015–2020
Authors: Jennings Adrienne M. , Vladescu Jason C. , Miguel Caio F. , Reeve Kenneth F. , Sidener Tina M.
Published: July 2021

The impact of Verbal Behavior (Skinner, 1957) on behavior analytic research, although not immediate, has steadily increased. Empirical investigations of verbal operants initially focused on mands and tacts, yet other operants such as intraverbals, echoics, and autoclitics have started to receive more attention. Aguirre et al. (2016) reviewed intraverbal research between 2005 and 2015. The results showed an increase in intraverbal research, with studies mostly focused on direct intraverbal training and emergent behavior. The authors noted the substantial increase in intraverbal studies assessing emergence, suggesting a subsequent brief review would be beneficial. The purpose of the current review was to replicate and extend Aguirre et al. In addition to analyzing publication trends and research emphasis, we also identified and quantified the skill sets of participants, the method and components of training, and additional procedural details. The findings show a continued increase in intraverbal research, with empirical evidence supporting prerequisite skills.
Building siRNAs with Cubes: Synthesis and Evaluation of Cubane‐Modified siRNAs
Authors: Hammill Matthew L. , Salim Lidya , Tsubaki Kouta , Varley Andrew J. , Kitamura Mitsuru , Okauchi Tatsuo , Desaulniers Jean‐Paul
Published: July 2021

Cubane molecules hold great potential for medicinal chemistry applications due to their inherent stability and low toxicity. In this study, we report the synthesis of a cubane derivative phosphoramidite for the incorporation of cubane into small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Synthetic siRNAs rely on chemical modifications to improve their pharmacokinetic profiles. However, they are still able to mediate sequence‐specific gene silencing via the endogenous RNA interference pathway. We designed a library of siRNAs bearing cubane at different positions within the sense and antisense strands. All siRNAs showed excellent gene‐silencing activity, with IC50 values ranging from 45.4 to 305 pM. Incorporating the cubane modification in both the sense and antisense strand led to viable duplexes with good biological activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of siRNAs bearing a cubane derivative within the backbone.
Double‐Shelled Hollow SiO2@N‐C Nanofiber Boosts the Lithium Storage Performance of [PMo12O40]3−
Authors: Hu Hanbin , Yang Yixin , Jiang Xiao , Wang Jiaxin , Cao Dongwei , He Lei , Chen Wei , Song Yu‐Fei
Published: July 2021

Polyoxometalates (POMs)‐based materials, with high theoretical capacities and abundant reversible multi‐electron redox properties, are considered as promising candidates in lithium‐ion storage. However, the poor electronic conductivity, low specific surface area and high solubility in the electrolyte limited their practical applications. Herein, a double‐shelled hollow PMo12−SiO2@N−C nanofiber (PMo12−SiO2@N−C, where PMo12 is [PMo12O40]3−, N−C is nitrogen‐doped carbon) was fabricated for the first time by combining coaxial electrospinning technique, thermal treatment and electrostatic adsorption. As an anode material for LIBs, the PMo12−SiO2@N−C delivered an excellent specific capacity of 1641 mA h g−1 after 1000 cycles under 2 A g−1. The excellent electrochemical performance benefited from the unique double‐shelled hollow structure of the material, in which the outermost N−C shell cannot only hinder the agglomeration of PMo12, but also improve its electronic conductivity. The SiO2 inner shell can efficiently avoid the loss of active components. The hollow structure can buffer the volume expansion and accelerate Li+ diffusion during lithiation/delithiation process. Moreover, PMo12 can greatly reduce charge‐resistance and facilitate electron transfer of the entire composites, as evidenced by the EIS kinetics study and lithium‐ion diffusion analysis. This work paves the way for the fabrication of novel POM‐based LIBs anode materials with excellent lithium storage performance.
Study of the Lithium Storage Mechanism of N‐Doped Carbon‐Modified Cu2S Electrodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Tian Guiying , Huang Chuanfeng , Luo Xianlin , Zhao Zijian , Peng Yong , Gao Yuqin , Tang Na , Dsoke Sonia
Published: July 2021

Owing to their high specific capacity and abundant reserve, CuxS compounds are promising electrode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Carbon compositing could stabilize the CuxS structure and repress capacity fading during the electrochemical cycling, but the corresponding Li+ storage mechanism and stabilization effect should be further clarified. In this study, nanoscale Cu2S was synthesized by CuS co‐precipitation and thermal reduction with polyelectrolytes. High‐temperature synchrotron radiation diffraction was used to monitor the thermal reduction process. During the first cycle, the conversion mechanism upon lithium storage in the Cu2S/carbon was elucidated by operando synchrotron radiation diffraction and in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. The N‐doped carbon‐composited Cu2S (Cu2S/C) exhibits an initial discharge capacity of 425 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, with a higher, long‐term capacity of 523 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 200 cycles; in contrast, the bare CuS electrode exhibits 123 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. Multiple‐scan cyclic voltammetry proves that extra Li+ storage can mainly be ascribed to the contribution of the capacitive storage.
Hydrogen and Halogen Bonding in Homogeneous External Electric Fields: Modulating the Bond Strengths
Authors: Chen Li , Dang Jingshuang , Du Juan , Wang Changwei , Mo Yirong
Published: July 2021

Recent years have witnessed various fascinating phenomena arising from the interactions of noncovalent bonds with homogeneous external electric fields (EEFs). Here we performed a computational study to interpret the sensitivity of intrinsic bond strengths to EEFs in terms of steric effect and orbital interactions. The block‐localized wavefunction (BLW) method, which combines the advantages of both ab initio valence bond (VB) theory and molecular orbital (MO) theory, and the subsequent energy decomposition (BLW‐ED) approach were adopted. The sensitivity was monitored and analyzed using the induced energy term, which is the variation in each energy component along the EEF strength. Systems with single or multiple hydrogen (H) or halogen (X) bond(s) were also examined. It was found that the X‐bond strength change to EEFs mainly stems from the covalency change, while generally the steric effect rules the response of H‐bonds to EEFs. Furthermore, X‐bonds are more sensitive to EEFs, with the key difference between H‐ and X‐bonds lying in the charge transfer interaction. Since phenylboronic acid has been experimentally used as a smart linker in EEFs, switchable sensitivity was scrutinized with the example of the phenylboronic acid dimer, which exhibits two conformations with either antiparallel or parallel H‐bonds, thereby, opposite or consistent responses to EEFs. Among the studied systems, the quadruple X‐bonds in molecular capsules exhibit remarkable sensitivity, with its interaction energy increased by −95.2 kJ mol−1at the EEF strength 0.005 a.u.
Does Cavitation Affect Droplet Breakup in High‐Pressure Homogenization? Insights into Local Effects
Authors: Preiss Felix Johannes , Hetz Maximilian , Karbstein Heike Petra
Published: July 2021

High‐pressure homogenization is a popular method to produce emulsions of droplet sizes smaller than 1 µm. Regarding the role of cavitation in the process, it is still discussed controversially whether it promotes or hinders droplet breakup during high‐pressure homogenization. In this study droplet breakup in a cavitating flow of an optically accessible high‐pressure homogenizer orifice is visualized using a high‐speed camera setup. The cavitation regime is characterized using laser light induced luminescence. Droplet deformation and breakup events are compared to a cavitation‐free flow with the same specific energy input. Once the jet cavitation regime is reached, droplet breakup took place further downstream the orifice exit, and the larger droplets are measured in the final product.
Comparison among random forest, logistic regression, and existing clinical risk scores for predicting outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation: A report from the J‐RHYTHM registry
Authors: Watanabe Eiichi , Noyama Shunsuke , Kiyono Ken , Inoue Hiroshi , Atarashi Hirotsugu , Okumura Ken , Yamashita Takeshi , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Kodani Eitaro , Origasa Hideki
Published: July 2021

Background

Machine learning (ML) has emerged as a promising tool for risk stratification. However, few studies have applied ML to risk assessment of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Hypothesis

We aimed to compare the performance of random forest (RF), logistic regression (LR), and conventional risk schemes in predicting the outcomes of AF.

Methods

We analyzed data from 7406 nonvalvular AF patients (median age 71 years, female 29.2%) enrolled in a nationwide AF registry (J‐RHYTHM Registry) and who were followed for 2 years. The endpoints were thromboembolisms, major bleeding, and all‐cause mortality. Models were generated from potential predictors using an RF model, stepwise LR model, and the thromboembolism (CHADS2 and CHA2DS2‐VASc) and major bleeding (HAS‐BLED, ORBIT, and ATRIA) scores.

Results

For thromboembolisms, the C‐statistic of the RF model was significantly higher than that of the LR model (0.66 vs. 0.59, p = .03) or CHA2DS2‐VASc score (0.61, p < .01). For major bleeding, the C‐statistic of RF was comparable to the LR (0.69 vs. 0.66, p = .07) and outperformed the HAS‐BLED (0.61, p < .01) and ATRIA (0.62, p < .01) but not the ORBIT (0.67, p = .07). The C‐statistic of RF for all‐cause mortality was comparable to the LR (0.78 vs. 0.79, p = .21). The calibration plot for the RF model was more aligned with the observed events for major bleeding and all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

The RF model performed as well as or better than the LR model or existing clinical risk scores for predicting clinical outcomes of AF.
Selective Expression of a Carbazole‐Phenothiazine Derivative Leads to Dual‐mode AIEE, TADF and Distinctive Mechanochromism
Authors: Hasan Numan , Ma Zhimin , Liu Jianwei , Li Zewei , Qian Chen , Liu Yan , Chen Mingxing , Jiang Hong , Jia Xinru , Ma Zhiyong
Published: July 2021

In this article, we report a newly designed D−A−D’ derivative (CNCzPTZ), which displays selective expression of chromophores. This enables CNCzPTZ with solvatochromism, rare dual‐mode AIEE properties, solid‐state dual‐emissions with phosphorescence and distinctive mechanochromism.CNCzPTZ exhibits dual‐mode AIEE properties, since the emission band abruptly shifts from 550 nm to 500 nm as the water fraction increases. In the crystalline state, CNCzPTZ demonstrated dual emission bands of 478 nm and 538 nm.CNCzPTZ shows distinctive mechanochromic property in the solid state due to the planarization.
Factors Influencing Plasma Coproporphyrin‐I Concentration as Biomarker of OATP1B Activity in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Ono Hiroyuki , Tanaka Ryota , Suzuki Yosuke , Oda Ayako , Ozaki Takashi , Tatsuta Ryosuke , Maeshima Keisuke , Ishii Koji , Ohno Keiko , Shibata Hirotaka , Itoh Hiroki
Published: July 2021

Organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) 1B are drug transporters mainly expressed in the sinusoidal membrane. In previous reports, genetic factor, 3‐carboxy‐4‐methyl‐5‐propyl‐2‐furanpropanoic acid (CMPF), which is one of the uremic toxins, inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) decreased OATP1B1 activity in vitro, but in vivo effects of these factors have not been elucidated. Plasma coproporphyrin‐I (CP‐I) is spotlighted as a highly accurate endogenous substrate of OATP1B. This study focused on patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and evaluated the influence of several factors comprising gene polymorphisms, uremic toxins, and inflammatory cytokines on OATP1B activity using plasma CP‐I concentration. Thirty‐seven outpatients with RA who satisfied the selection criteria were analyzed at the time of recruitment (baseline) and at the next visit. OATP1B1*15 carriers tended to have higher CP‐I concentration compared with noncarriers. Plasma CP‐I correlated positively with CMPF concentration, but did not correlate with IL‐6 or TNF‐α concentration. Multiple logistic regression analysis by stepwise selection identified plasma CMPF concentration and OATP1B1*15 allele as significant factors independently affecting plasma CP‐I concentration at baseline and at the next visit, respectively. In conclusion, the present results suggest that inflammatory cytokines do not have clinically significant effects on OATP1B activity, whereas the effects of genetic polymorphisms and uremic toxins should be considered.
Progressive pedagogies made visible: Implications for equitable mathematics teaching
Authors: Wright Pete , Fejzo Alba , Carvalho Tiago
Published: July 2021

This paper makes a significant contribution to contemporary debates over the direction curriculum reforms should take. It challenges claims that progressive pedagogies can exclude disadvantaged learners from gaining access to powerful knowledge and argues that greater attention needs to be given to learner agency and subject didactics. It reports on the findings from the Visible Maths Pedagogy research project, which aimed to develop and evaluate strategies for making progressive pedagogies more visible to mathematics learners. Evidence collected from student surveys and interviews suggests that these novel strategies were successful in heightening students' appreciation of the teacher's pedagogic rationale for employing progressive teaching approaches. They appeared to have a positive impact on students' mathematical engagement and awareness of how to achieve success in the secondary school mathematics classroom, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The findings highlight the potential of progressive pedagogies made visible for establishing an alternative didactic situation based on socio‐mathematical norms associated with ‘sense making’, rather than ‘answer getting’, which can help develop students' individual and collective agency. We argue that such a didactic situation offers a pathway towards a more equitable mathematics curriculum that enables wider access to powerful knowledge, and which forms an integral part of a school curriculum designed to address the environmental, economic and social challenges currently faced by our global society.
A modified Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology system for reporting respiratory cytology specimens: Implications for estimates of malignancy risk and diagnostic accuracy
Authors: Layfield Lester J. , Esebua Magda
Published: July 2021

Background

In 2016, the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology (PSC) proposed a classification scheme for reporting cytologic specimens obtained from the respiratory system. Diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and risk of malignancy were reported for endobronchial ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration but data for other sampling techniques has been poorly documented.

Methods

In 2016, a modified version of the PSC guidelines was adopted at the University of Missouri for classification of sputum, bronchial washing, bronchial brushing, and fine‐needle aspiration specimens. Specimens assigned to the negative category included all specimens containing evaluatable inflammatory or epithelial cells including benign appearing respiratory epithelium. Only specimens with marked artifactual distortion or obscuring blood or mucus were placed in the non‐diagnostic category.

Results

672 bronchial washing specimens (479 with histology) and 511 bronchial brushings specimens (324 with histology) were reviewed. Washing specimens were classified as non‐diagnostic (3%), benign (73%), atypical (10%), suspicious (4%), and malignant (10%). Bronchial brushing specimens were classified non‐diagnostic (0.4%) benign (73%), atypical (6%), suspicious (3%), and malignant (17%). Malignancy risks for bronchial washings were insufficient (50%), benign (38%), atypical (62%), suspicious (83%), and malignant (98%). Risks of malignancy for bronchial brushings were insufficient (0%), benign (32%), atypical (79%), suspicious (75%), and malignant (94%).

Conclusion

Malignancy risks associated with bronchial washings and bronchial brushings are different than those reported for EBUS FNA. When the benign category includes specimens with “normal” appearing cellular elements, the risk of malignancy is substantial (between 32% and 38%).