bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The behavior and mechanism of tris‐(3‐dopo‐propyl)‐triazine trione flame retardant polyethylene terephthalate
Authors: Liu Hao‐Yu , Xin Fei , Du Jia‐Ying , Chen Yu
Published: May 2023

A 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10 phosphophenanthrene‐10‐oxide based derivative tris‐(3‐dopo‐propyl)‐triazine trione (TAD) is applied to polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The melting and blending process of the composite is carried out through twin screws. The flame retardancy, thermostability, and mechanical property have elevated with slight load agent. The limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning test (UL 94), and cone calorimeter test are proceeded to sustain the flame retardancy of PET/TAD‐x. The 30.2% LOI value and UL 94V‐1 rating will be attained with 5 wt% load, the peak of heat release rate show 33.4% decrease, concurrently. The thermogravimetric analysis is performed to characterized the constancy of flame retardant composites during the heating process. Relevant evidence express that TAD provided appreciable assistance in improving carbon‐forming capacity and postponing initial decomposition temperature. The Raman spectra, TG‐Fourier transform infrared, Hot‐Stage FTIR are used to explain the connection about the optimization of performance and the alteration of products in pyrolyzing or after pyrolyzation. In addition, the mechanical properties are supported via tensile and impact test. This study confirms TAD has great potential competitiveness in future halogen‐free flame retardant applications as viable and environmentally friendly to polyester material.
Minimum‐energy time‐varying formation of distributed multi‐agent systems with interaction constraints
Authors: Qin Donghao , Wang Le , Li Junlong , Xi Jianxiang
Published: May 2023

In the current paper, minimum‐energy time‐varying formation design and analysis problems of distributed multi‐agent systems (DMASs) subjected to randomly switching topologies and aperiodic interaction pauses are investigated, which can ensure the time‐varying formation achievement with the minimum‐energy consumption in the sense of the linear matrix inequality. Firstly, a formation control protocol is designed with local information of neighboring agents, where the total energy consumption during the formation process is constructed and the impacts of interaction constraints are imposed. Then, minimum‐energy formation design and analysis criteria of DMASs are presented in terms of the linear matrix inequality tool, which can be checked by the generalized eigenvalue method. Finally, a numerical simulation is shown to verify the effectiveness of the main results.
Shared learning from a physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling strategy for human pharmacokinetics prediction through retrospective analysis of Genentech compounds
Authors: Mao Jialin , Ma Fang , Yu Jesse , Bruyn Tom De , Ning Miaoran , Bowman Christine , Chen Yuan
Published: May 2023

The quantitative prediction of human pharmacokinetics (PK) including the PK profile and key PK parameters are critical for early drug development decisions, successful phase I clinical trials, and the establishment of a range of doses to enable phase II clinical dose selection. Here, we describe an approach employing physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling (Simcyp) to predict human PK and to validate its performance through retrospective analysis of 18 Genentech compounds for which clinical data are available. In short, physicochemical parameters and in vitro data for preclinical species were integrated using PBPK modeling to predict the in vivo PK observed in mouse, rat, dog, and cynomolgus monkey. Through this process, the in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) was determined and then incorporated into PBPK modeling in order to predict human PK. Overall, the prediction obtained using this PBPK‐IVIVE approach captured the observed human PK profiles of the compounds from the dataset well. The predicted Cmax was within 2‐fold of the observed Cmax for 94% of the compounds while the predicted area under the curve (AUC) was within 2‐fold of the observed AUC for 72% of the compounds. Additionally, important IVIVE trends were revealed through this investigation, including application of scaling factors determined from preclinical IVIVE to human PK prediction for each molecule. Based upon the analysis, this PBPK‐based approach now serves as a practical strategy for human PK prediction at the candidate selection stage at Genentech.
Single‐cell atlas reveals a distinct immune profile fostered by T cell‐B cell crosstalk in triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Ding Shuning , Qiao Niu , Zhu Qingchen , Tong Yiwei , Wang Shengyue , Chen Xiaosong , Tian Qiang , Xiao Yichuan , Shen Kunwei
Published: May 2023

Background

Characterizing the unique immune microenvironment of each tumor is of great importance for better predicting prognosis and guiding cancer immunotherapy. However, the unique features of the immune microenvironment of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) compared with other subtypes of breast cancer remain elusive. Therefore, we aimed to depict and compare the immune landscape among TNBC, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2‐positive (HER2+) breast cancer, and luminal‐like breast cancer.

Methods

Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) was performed on CD45+ immune cells isolated from human normal breast tissues and primary breast tumors of various subtypes. By analyzing the scRNA‐seq data, immune cell clusters were identified and their proportions as well as transcriptome features were compared among TNBC, human HER2+ breast cancer, and luminal‐like breast cancer. Pseudotime and cell‐cell communication analyses were also conducted to characterize the immune microenvironment.

Results

ScRNA‐seq data of 117,958 immune cells were obtained and 31 immune clusters were identified. A unique immunosuppressive microenvironment in TNBC was decoded as compared to that in HER2+ or luminal‐like breast cancer, which was characterized by higher proportions of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and exhausted CD8+ T cells and accompanied by more abundant plasma cells. Tregs and exhausted CD8+T cells in TNBC exhibited increased immunosuppression signature and dysfunctional scores. Pseudotime analyses showed that B cells tended to differentiate to plasma cells in TNBC. Cell‐cell communication analyses indicated that these unique features are fostered by the diversified T cell‐B cell crosstalk in TNBC. Based on the T cell‐B cell crosstalk, a prognostic signature was established that could effectively predict the prognosis status for patients with TNBC. Additionally, it was found that TNBC had a higher proportion of cytotoxic natural killer (NK) cells, whereas HER2+ or luminal‐like breast cancer lost this feature, suggesting that HER2+ or luminal‐like breast cancer, but not TNBC, may benefit from NK‐based immunotherapy.

Conclusions

This study identified a distinct immune feature fostered by T cell‐B cell crosstalk in TNBC, which provides better prognostic information and effective therapeutic targets for breast cancer.
AEGAN: Generating imperceptible face synthesis via autoencoder‐based generative adversarial network
Authors: Che Aolin , Yang Jing‐Hua , Guo Cai , Dai Hong‐Ning , Xie Haoran , Li Ping
Published: May 2023

Face recognition (FR) systems based on convolutional neural networks have shown excellent performance in human face inference. However, some malicious users may exploit such powerful systems to identify others' face images disclosed by victims' social network accounts, consequently obtaining private information. To address this emerging issue, synthesizing face protection images with visual and protective effects is essential. However, existing face protection methods encounter three critical problems: poor visual effect, limited protective effect, and trade‐off between visual and protective effects. To address these challenges, we propose a novel face protection approach in this article. Specifically, we design a generative adversarial network (GAN) framework with an autoencoder (AEGAN) as the generator to synthesize the protection images. It is worth noting that we introduce an interpolation upsampling module in the decoder in order to let the synthesized protection images evade recognition by powerful convolution‐based FR systems. Furthermore, we introduce an attention module with a perceptual loss in AEGAN to enhance the visual effects of synthesized images by AEGAN. Extensive experiments have shown that AEGAN not only can maintain the comfortable visual quality of synthesized images but also prevent the recognition of commercial FR systems, including Baidu and iKLYTEK.
Synthesis of New Bis(pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines) Linked to Different Spacers as Potential MurB Inhibitors
Authors: Sanad Sherif M. H. , Abdelsalam Alshimaa A. M. , Gamal Eldin Aya A. , Abdelfattah Esraa H. , Hussein Fatma R. M. , Mohammed Nada G. , Taha Nariman A. S. , Mekky Ahmed E. M.
Published: May 2023

An efficient protocol was adopted to efficiently prepare three new series of bis(pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines) linked to different spacers. The new bis(pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines) were prepared in 80–90 % yields by reacting the respective bis(enaminones) and 4‐(4‐substituted benzyl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐3,5‐diamines in pyridine at reflux temperature for 5–7 h. The new products showed a wide spectrum of antibacterial activity against six different bacterial strains. In general, propane‐ and butane‐linked bis(pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines), which are attached to 3‐(4‐methyl‐ or 4‐methoxybenzyl) units, had the best antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values up to 2.5 and 5.1 μM, respectively. Additionally, the previous products demonstrated promising MurB inhibitory activity with IC50 values up to 7.2 μM.
Idiopathic remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome with underlying history of malignancy
Authors: Kim Kain , Marvil Charles , Adhyaru Bhavin B.
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

By reporting this case, we hope to emphasize the importance of maintaining a high index of clinical suspicion for the early recognition of RS3PE in patients presenting with atypical symptoms of PMR and underlying history of malignancy.

Remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema is a rare rheumatic syndrome of unknown etiology. It shares qualities with many other common rheumatological disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and polymyalgia rheumatica, making diagnosis especially challenging. RS3PE has been speculated to be a paraneoplastic syndrome, and those cases associated with underlying malignancy have shown to respond poorly to conventional treatment. Therefore, it is advisable to routinely screen patients with malignancy and presenting with RS3PE for cancer recurrence, even if in remission.
Single‐arm trials for US Food and Drug Administration cancer drug approvals
Authors: Nierengarten Mary Beth
Published: May 2023

This news section offers Cancer readers timely information on events, public policy analysis, topical issues, and personalities. In this issue, we explore why using single‐arm studies for accelerated US Food and Drug administration approvals can help get drugs previously approved for other uses to patients with cancer. In addition, new studies show that adherence to evidence‐based surgical metrics improves long‐term outcomes in patients with early‐stage lung cancer, and lung cancer screening based on personal lung cancer risk is more cost‐effective than screening based on age and smoking history.
Research on fatigue optimization simulation of polymeric heart valve based on the iterative sub‐regional thickened method
Authors: Tao Li , Jingyuan Zhou , Hongjun Zhou , Yijing Li , Yan Xiong , Yu Chen
Published: May 2023

Prosthetic polymeric heart valves (PHVs) have the potential to overcome the inherent material and design limitations of traditional valves in the treatment of valvular heart disease; however, their durability remains limited. Optimal design of the valve structure is necessary to improve their durability. This study aimed to enhance the fatigue resistance of PHVs by improving the stress distribution. Iterative subregional thickening of the leaflets was used, and the mechanical stress distribution and hemodynamics of these polymeric tri‐leaflet valves were characterized using a fluid–structure interaction approach. Subregional thickening led to a reduction in stress concentration on the leaflet, with the effective orifice area still meeting ISO 5840‐3 and the regurgitant volume achieving a similar value to those in previous studies. The maximum stress in the final iteration was reduced by 28% compared with that of the prototype. The proposed method shows potential for analyzing the stress distribution and hemodynamic performance of subregional thickened valves and can further improve the durability of PHVs.
Niche specialization and community niche space increase with species richness in filter‐feeder assemblages
Authors: Sánchez González Irene , Hopper Garrett W. , Bucholz Jamie R. , Kubala Megan E. , Lozier Jeffrey D. , Atkinson Carla L.
Published: May 2023

Ecological theory posits that higher species richness should be associated with greater exploitation of resources and niche packing resulting from either increasing species niche overlap or specialization of species' niches. Research evaluating niche theory in animals tends to focus on organisms among functional feeding guilds, while resource partitioning might be more critical within functional groups. Freshwater mussels (Family: Unionidae) are a diverse and imperiled group of animals that are ideal models to test niche occupancy due to their functional similarity as filter‐feeders and their occurrence in spatially and temporally stable multispecies aggregations. We evaluated the relationship between species richness and the trophic niche area for 25 mussel species occurring in 22 aggregations in the southeastern United States using stable isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N) of soft tissue (n = 1057). Mean species standard ellipse area decreased with species richness, whereas ellipse overlap was not related to richness, indicating increased niche specialization may be the primary mechanism allowing coexistence in species‐rich communities. Total community isotopic area increased with richness, suggesting species‐rich communities also use a broader range of resources and may not be species‐saturated. Overall, our data support the niche‐packing hypothesis by illustrating the importance of niche partitioning within a species‐rich guild of aquatic animals.
Analytical separation of plasmid DNA isoforms using anion exchanging chromatographic monoliths with 6 µm channels
Authors: Pavlin Nejc , Černigoj Urh , Bavčar Mojca , Plesničar Tjaša , Mavri Jan , Zidar Martin , Bone Matevž , Kralj Savič Urška , Sever Tadej , Štrancar Aleš
Published: May 2023

High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)‐based analytical assays are used to effectively monitor purity and quantity of plasmid DNA (pDNA) throughout the purification process. However, the phenomenon of physical entrapment of open circular (OC) isoforms pDNA inside narrow channels of chromatographic support decreases its accuracy and precision and the effect increases with pDNA size. The purpose of the study was to develop a chromatographic method for accurate analytical separation between isoforms of <16 kbp pDNA using weak anion exchanging monolithic column with large (6 µm) convective channels. Purified samples of 4.7 and 15.4 kbp large pDNA with known isoform composition were prepared and their isoforms separated in ascending salt gradient. Both OC and supercoiled (SC) isoforms were baseline separated at a flow rate below 0.5 mL min−1 in a guanidinium chloride (GdnCl) gradient with a ≥95% OC pDNA elution recovery. However, these chromatographic conditions increased 2 times the peak width for linear (LIN) pDNA isoform compared to the results using monoliths with 1.4 µm channel size. If other chaotropic agents, such as urea or thiocyanate (SCN), were added to Gdn ions, the elution volume for LIN isoform decreased. Optimization of combined GdnCl/GdnSCN gradient for pDNA elution resulted in a simple and robust chromatographic method, where OC–LIN and LIN–SC pDNA (up to 15 kbp size) were separated with resolution above 1.0 and above 2.0, respectively. The accessibility and general acceptance of anion exchange chromatography for pDNA analytics give the newly developed method a great potential for in‐process control monitoring of pDNA production processes.
Revealing the Role of Band Offsets on the Charge Carrier Dynamics of CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3‐Based Perovskite Solar Cell: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Roy Priyanka , Khare Ayush , Tiwari Sanjay , Mahapatra Apurba
Published: May 2023

A computational method using a unidimensional device simulator to theoretically study the CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3‐based perovskite solar cell (PSC) is adopted. The results provide a detailed understanding of energy level tuning between the transport and absorber layer in order to attain high‐performance parameters. The influence of band offset (BO) on the charge carrier dynamics of the PSCs is explained in terms of cliff and spike structures for various levels of conduction band offsets (CBOs) and valence band offsets (VBOs). The ideality factor (IF) is calculated with variable BOs, and its variation with the applied voltage is examined. IF value ranges from 1.95 to 1.55 and 1.57 to 1.51 for different levels of VBO and CBO, respectively. The study on absorber layer thickness is conducted at different levels of BOs, revealing the importance of optimized absorber thickness on the performance of the PSCs. The capacitance–voltage measurements under illumination and in the dark signify the importance of optimized BO on the built‐in potential and maximum capacitances of the PSC. The Nyquist plot of the PSC at different levels of BO reveals that the highest recombination resistance is obtained at the optimum BO levels, rendering device to attain superior performance.
Influence of variants in serotonin modulating genes on the risk, aggressiveness, and prognosis of oropharynx cancer
Authors: Queiroz Gabriela Souza Rodrigues , Carron Juliana , Macedo Ligia Traldi , Lima Carmen Silvia Passos , Lourenço Gustavo Jacob
Published: May 2023

Background

Serotonin (5‐HT) is involved in regulating tumor growth, as well as psychiatric disorders. It is synthesized by tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) and acts through 5‐HT receptors (HTRs). Single‐nucleotide variations (SNVs) in TPH1 rs623580 (T>A), TPH2 rs4570625 (G>T), and HTR1D rs674386 (G>A) may affect 5‐HT levels. However, the effect of these SNVs on oropharynx carcinoma (OPC) is unknown.

Methods

DNA from 251 patients with OPC and 254 controls was analyzed by RT‐PCR. Transcriptional activity of TPH1 rs623580 and HTR1D rs674386 was studied by luciferase assays. Multivariate statistical tests were utilized to evaluate group differences and survival outcomes.

Results

TPH1 TT was more frequent in patients than in controls (OR: 1.56, p = 0.03). Patients with HTR1D GG/GA showed invasive tumors (p = 0.01) and shorter survival (HR: 1.66, p = 0.04). TPH1 TT (0.79‐fold, p = 0.03) and HTR1D GG (0.64‐fold, p = 0.008) presented lower transcriptional activity.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that SNVs in 5‐HT modulating genes can influence OPC.
Healthcare in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan: Lessons for the United States and other western healthcare systems
Authors: Meyer Rebecca C. , Meyer Shelly
Published: May 2023

Bhutan has demonstrated a trajectory of advances in healthcare, while still remaining true to its culture and traditional forms of medicine. Most recently, Bhutan gained international attention when it implemented a strategic Covid‐19 vaccination programme that protected a greater percentage of its population than observed in Western industrialised nations. This accomplishment supports the idea that there are lessons from Bhutan to be shared with the rest of the world. In this work, we delineate our observations of the Bhutanese healthcare system, based on field observations in several Bhutanese cities, and results from surveys of Bhutanese physicians. We identify a number of unique practices that influence patient compliance, health education, and access to care in the Bhutanese system, that may be of particular interest and applicability to other healthcare systems. These include housing multiple health services at one location, fully funded medical visits, using non‐physician teachers for health education and use of Gross National Happiness (GNH) measures in care.
Patterns and trends in local health departments’ efforts to promote access to care in local communities throughout the United States: The contributions of governance structures
Authors: Hearld Larry R. , Tafili Aurora , Kelly Reena Joseph
Published: May 2023

Public health agencies like local health departments (LHDs) play an important role in addressing healthcare access disparities and service delivery gaps in local communities throughout the United States. Previous research has provided important snapshots into specific access issues confronted by LHDs; however, the literature lacks a more comprehensive view of LHDs' efforts to ensure broad access to care, how these have evolved over time more recently, and whether certain types of LHDs governance structures are more likely to engage in activities to ensure access to care. The purpose of this study was to address these gaps in the literature by exploring the prevalence of different activities to ensure access to care, describing how the prevalence of these activities have evolved over time, and examining whether the prevalence of these activities varied as a function of different governance structures. Using pooled, cross‐sectional survey data from four waves of a survey (2009, 2013, 2016, 2019) of LHDs in the United States, the univariate and bivariate analysis revealed that, over time, LHDs have generally increased their efforts to assess gaps in access to healthcare services and across all healthcare categories (i.e., medical, dental, behavioural health) but especially for behavioural health. Poisson regression models showed that LHDs with a more decentralised decision‐making structure were associated with more activities to ensure access to care, as compared to more centralised structures. Collectively, our findings indicate that despite growth in the number and percentage of LHDs assessing and addressing gaps in services, opportunities still exist to enhance access to healthcare services in local communities, particularly in the areas of dental and behavioural health. Our findings also suggest that stakeholders interested in improving LHDs’ efforts to ensure access to care in local communities may want to pay close attention to governance features of LHDs.
Mode of delivery of Finnish dichorionic and monochorionic‐diamniotic twins: A retrospective observational study including a risk score for intrapartum cesarean birth
Authors: Rissanen Annu‐Riikka S. , Loukovaara Mikko , Gissler Mika , Nupponen Irmeli K. , Nuutila Mika E. , Jernman Riina M.
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Trial of labor is considered safe also among twins, yet nearly 50% are born via cesarean section in Finland. While planned cesarean births have declined among twins, intrapartum cesarean deliveries have risen, postulating evaluation of criteria for trial of labor. The objective of this study was to create an outline of the mode of delivery of dichorionic and monochorionic‐diamniotic Finnish twins. By evaluating risk factors for intrapartum cesarean delivery (CD), we aimed at creating a risk score for intrapartum cesarean birth for twins.

Methods

A retrospective observational study based on a cohort of dichorionic and monochorionic‐diamniotic twin pregnancies considered as candidates for trial of labor in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018 (n = 720) was performed. Differences between parturients with vaginal delivery and intrapartum CD to identify potential risk factors for intrapartum CD were assessed. Logistic regression analysis (n = 707) was used to further define risk score points for recognized risk factors.

Results

A total of 23.8% (171/720, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 20.7–26.9) of parturients experienced intrapartum CD. Induction of labor, primiparity, fear of childbirth, artificial reproductive technology, higher maternal age, and other than cephalic/cephalic presentation independently associated with intrapartum CD. The achieved total risk score ranged from 0 to 13 points with significantly higher points among the CD group (6.61 vs. 4.42, p < 0.001). Using ≥8 points as a cut‐off, 51.4% (56/109) were delivered by intrapartum CD (sensitivity = 33.73%, specificity = 90.20%, positive predictive value = 51.38%, negative predictive value = 81.61%). The total risk score had a fair predictive capability for intrapartum CD (area under the curve = 0.729, 95% CI = 0.685–0.773).

Conclusion

Fair‐level risk stratification could be achieved with higher maternal age, primiparity, induction of labor, artificial reproductive technology, fear of childbirth, and other than cephalic/cephalic presentation increasing the risk. Parturients with low‐risk score (0–7 points) appear to be the best candidates for trial of labor with acceptable CD rates in this group (18.4%).
How do university students perceive the educational transition in the COVID‐19 era: A cross‐sectional study from 15 Arab countries
Authors: Eltewacy Nael Kamel , Abu Farha Rana K. , Matar Sajeda G. , Jobran Afnan W. M. , Nagi Nesma Gebril , Benmelouka Amira Yasmine , Rohim Hagar Ismail , Yasseen Enas M. , Ayman Omnia , El‐Din Sayed Aya N. , Abdallah Reem Ahmed M. , Abdallah Rana Ahmed M. , Yousef Alaa M. , Yahia Ahmad B. , Brimo Alsaman Muhamad Zakaria , Ebada Mahmoud A. ,   EARG Collaborators
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

The viral agent of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) continues to spread worldwide, leading to a global pandemic. this may negatively affect students' mental health who have to maintain their learning efforts. Therefore, we aimed to assess students' perceptions of the online learning programs designed for university students in Arab countries during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on university students using a self‐administered online questionnaire in 15 Arab countries, including 6779 participants. The actual sample size was calculated using the EpiInfo program calculator. The validated, piloted questionnaire assessed the effectiveness of internet‐based distance learning applications used in these countries during the pandemic. The SPSS version 22 was used.

Results

Among the 6779 participants, 26.2% believed that their teachers diversify learning methods, 22.0% thought that their teachers were able to treat the weakness the students have, and 30.7% agreed that their teachers efficiently communicate with them through COVID‐19 internet‐based learning process. Around 33% of students participated in lectures effectively, 47.4% submitted their homework within accepted deadlines, and 28.6% thought that their colleagues did not cheat during exams and homework. Around 31.3% of students believed that online‐based learning had a role in directing them towards research, and 29.9% and 28.9%, respectively, believed that online learning had a role in developing analytical thinking and synthesis skills. Participants reported many suggestions to enhance the process of internet‐based distance learning in the future.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that online‐based distance learning in Arab countries still needs more improvement as students still are more inclined toward face‐to‐face teaching. However, exploring the factors that influence students' perceptions of e‐learning is vital for improving the quality of online‐based distance learning. We recommend exploring the perceptions of educators regarding their experience towards online‐based distance learning during COVID‐19 lockdown.
NaHCO3‐induced porous PbI2 enabling efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Du Yitian , Wang Ying , Wu Jihuai , Chen Qi , Deng Chunyan , Ji Ran , Sun Liuxue , Tan Lina , Chen Xia , Xie Yiming , Huang Yunfang , Vaynzof Yana , Gao Peng , Sun Weihai , Lan Zhang
Published: May 2023

Driven by their many unique features, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have become one of the most promising candidates in the photovoltaic field. Two‐step preparation of perovskite film is advantageous for its higher stability and reproducibility compared to the one‐step method, which is more suitable for practical application. However, the incomplete conversion of the dense lead iodide (PbI2) layer during the sequential spin‐coating of formamidinium/methylammonium (FA+/MA+) organic amine salts severely affect the performance of PSCs. Herein, sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is used to induce the formation of porous PbI2, which facilitates the penetration of the FA+/MA+ ions and the formation of a perovskite film with high crystallinity and large grain microstructure. Meanwhile, the introduction of Na+ not only improves the energetic alignment of the PSC, but also increases the conductivity via p‐doping. As a result, the optimized NaHCO3‐modified PSC achieves a champion power conversion efficiency of 24.0% with suppressed hysteresis. Moreover, the significant reduction in defect density and ion migration as well as a mild alkaline environment enhance the stability of device. The unencapsulated NaHCO3‐modified PSCs maintain over 90% of their original efficiency upon storage in ambient air (30%–40% relative humidity) for 2160 h. We have demonstrated an ingenious strategy for controlling the quality of perovskite and improving the performance of device by low‐temperature foaming of simple inorganic molecules of NaHCO3.

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Yoga training injury detection method based on multi‐sensor information fusion
Authors: Liu Juan , Li Yuanqing
Published: May 2023

Yoga, as a kind of body building exercise, has always been loved by people. However, many people suffer from yoga training injuries due to long‐term incorrect posture and wrong exercise methods. There is an urgent need for a technology to help people detect and improve yoga training methods. Based on the past computer assistance method, this paper started from a new idea, and adopted the method of multi‐sensor information fusion to detect yoga training, aiming to help the masses better participate in yoga training. In this study, 50 volunteers were invited to participate in the comparative experiment. Based on multi‐sensor information fusion, and by building a human model, the tension and compression data before and after yoga training were compared to analyze the differences before and after calculation. It was concluded that the more sensors, the higher the degree of information fusion, and the lower the yoga training injury index. The injury index of yoga training without multi‐sensor information fusion technology in the early stage was 0.39. With the increase of the number of sensors, the injury index of yoga training has gradually decreased to 0.02, which was more than 5 percentage points lower than that of the previous methods. The experiment showed that the method of yoga training damage detection based on multi‐sensor information fusion was feasible, which also provided a new idea for the research of yoga training injury detection methods.
FTIR microspectroscopy and multivariate analysis facilitate identification of dynamic changes in epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition induced by TGF‐β in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Karmakar Deepmala , Lahiri Pooja , Bedi Minakshi , Ghosh Aritri , Ghosh Alok , Barui Ananya , Varshney Shailendra Kumar , Lahiri Basudev , Sengupta Sanghamitra
Published: May 2023

The standard diagnosis of prostate cancer is accomplished by the identification of cytomorphological deviations in biopsied tissues while immunohistochemistry is used to resolve the equivocal cases. Accumulating evidence favors the concept that epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a stochastic process composed of multiple intermediate states instead of a single binary switch. Despite its significant role in promoting cancer aggressiveness, the current tissue‐based risk stratification tools do not include any of the EMT phenotypes as a metric. As a proof‐of‐concept, the present study analyzes the temporal progression of EMT in transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) treated PC3 cells encompassing multifarious characteristics such as morphology, migration and invasion, gene expression, biochemical fingerprint, and metabolic activity. Our multimodal approach reinstates EMT plasticity in TGF‐β treated PC3 cells. Further, it highlights that mesenchymal transition is accompanied by discernible changes in cellular morphometry and molecular signatures particularly in the range of 1800–1600 cm−1 and 3100–2800 cm−1 of Fourier‐transformed infrared (FTIR) spectra signifying Amide III and lipid, respectively. Investigation of attenuated total reflectance (ATR)‐FTIR spectra of extracted lipids from PC3 cell populations undergoing EMT identifies changes in stretching vibration at FTIR peaks at 2852, 2870, 2920, 2931, 2954, and 3010 cm−1 characteristics of fatty acids and cholesterol. Chemometric analysis of these spectra indicates that the level of unsaturation and acyl chain length of fatty acid coregister with differential epithelial/mesenchymal states of TGF‐β treated PC3 cells. Observed changes in lipids also correlate with cellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen (NADH) and flavin adenine dinucleotide dihydrogen (FADH2) levels and mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate. In summary, our study establishes that morphological and phenotypic traits of epithelial/mesenchymal variants of PC3 cells concur with their respective biochemical and metabolic properties. It also underscores that spectroscopic histopathology has a definitive potential to refine the diagnosis of prostate cancer reckoning its molecular and biochemical heterogeneities.
Identification of novel scaffolds to inhibit Mycobacterium tuberculosis PimA protein—A computational approach
Authors: Damera Thirupathi , Kondaparthi Vani , Bingi Madhavilatha , Mustyala Kiran Kumar , Malkhed Vasavi
Published: May 2023

Phosphatidyl‐myo‐inositol mannosyltransferase (Pim) is a subset of the Glycosyl transferase type family that has been synthesized from 1D‐myo‐inositol and GDP‐α‐d‐mannose reaction in the presence of PimA protein as a catalyst, which PimA protein is identified as a high‐confidence therapeutic target. In‐silico technique such as homology modeling is the most efficient approach for discovering a new framework to study the modulations of protein function. Using In‐silico approaches, therapeutic compounds with high affinity, specificity, activity, low harmfulness, and no side effects can be found. Applying the Modeller software and molecular dynamics simulations, a stable three‐dimensional (3D) model of the PimA protein is produced. The modeled PimA protein consists of 20 helices and 27 twists in its 3D structure. Lead compounds that inhibit the PimA protein are found by applying the Schrodinger suite and the PyRx virtual screening tools. The amino acid residues PRO14 and ASP253 are identified as active residues involved in binding with the ligands. High‐potential lead compounds are discovered as ligand scaffolds against PimA protein with satisfactory ADME capabilities.
Influence of background music on stress reduction and impact on performances during students’ simulation exercises
Authors: Felszeghy Szabolcs , Liukkonen Mikko , Tornero Carlos Soler , Auvinen Olli M. , Hämäläinen Kalle , Banafa Aisha , Kurki Pirjo
Published: May 2023

Background

The acquisition of manual skills is essential in preclinical dental training. Background music improves the learning of many manual skills, though we found no data on the consequences of background music on preclinical manual skills training of dental students.

Objective

The first aim of this project was to explore whether listening to slow background music could reduce the stress of students when learning how to perform cavity preparations and restorations in a simulation laboratory. The second aim of this study was to determine the impact of slow background music on the quality and time used during cavity preparation.

Method

We invited all of the 40 third‐year dental students to participate in the study, of whom 88% chose to anonymously fill in questionnaires on their subjective evaluations of the effects of slow background music on the stress or anxiety levels experienced during the course. Twenty‐four students further volunteered to participate in a cross‐over study on the impact of slow background music on the quality of and time used during cavity preparation.

Results

The overall satisfaction with the slow background music was high. In particular, the music reduced stress but also increased motivation to learn and practice. Communication in the classroom went well despite the music. Time use and quality of cavity preparation were enhanced.

Conclusion

This study lends support to the use of slow background music in preclinical cariology training, as it appeared to have helpful effects on dental skills education and practice.
Ultrastructure of Javaen barb fish Systomus orphoides Valenciennes, 1842 spermatozoa (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) by electron microscopes
Authors: Hilia Sri Widiyanti Rahayu , Abinawanto  , Dwiranti Astari , Bowolaksono Anom , Lestari Retno , Fadhilah  , Kristanto Anang Hari , Ohmido Nobuko
Published: May 2023

Javaen barb fish Systomus orphoides Valenciennes, 1842 (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) is a freshwater fish whose population is declining and threatened with extinction. In this study, the ultrastructure of spermatozoa of Javaen barb fish (S. orphoides) was studied using transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The spermatozoa of S. orphoides are relatively simple cells composed of a spherical head, a short midpiece, and a flagellum, as in most Cyprinidae. The ultrastructure is characterized by the absence of acrosome, the total length of spermatozoa is 27.16 ± 4.5 μm, and the head has spherical with a length of 1.84 ± 0.10 μm and width of 1.55 ± 0.15 μm containing a nucleus, midpiece region containing the proximal and distal centrioles and mitochondria. Two or three mitochondria surrounding the axoneme (with a 9 + 2 microtubular pattern). Ultrastructural analyses by SEM and TEM of Javaen barb fish spermatozoa cells are very consistent with those of Cyprinidae. This study provides the ultrastructure information of S. orphoides spermatozoa in the Cyprinidae family this research could be useful in increasing reproductive efficiency and further prevent the extinction of this species.
Mapping and characterization of G‐quadruplexes in monkeypox genomes
Authors: Pereira Higor Sette , Gemmill Darren L. , Siddiqui M. Quadir , Vasudeva Gunjan , Patel Trushar R.
Published: May 2023

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a double‐stranded DNA virus from the family Poxviridae, which is endemic in West and Central Africa. Various human outbreaks occurred in the 1980s, resulting from a cessation of smallpox vaccination. Recently, MPXV cases have reemerged in non‐endemic nations, and the 2022 outbreak has been declared a public health emergency. Treatment optionsare limited, and many countries lack the infrastructure to provide symptomatic treatments. The development of cost‐effective antivirals could ease severe health outcomes. G‐quadruplexes have been a target of interest in treating viral infections with different chemicals. In the present work, a genomic‐scale mapping of different MPXV isolates highlighted two conserved putative quadruplex‐forming sequences MPXV‐exclusive in 590 isolates. Subsequently, we assessed the G‐quadruplex formation using circular dichroism spectroscopy and solution small‐angle X‐ray scattering. Furthermore, biochemical assays indicated the ability of MPXV quadruplexes to be recognized by two specific G4‐binding partners—Thioflavin T and DHX36. Additionally, our work also suggests that a quadruplex binding small‐molecule with previously reported antiviral activity, TMPyP4, interacts with MPXV G‐quadruplexes with nanomolar affinity in the presence and absence of DHX36. Finally, cell biology experiments suggests that TMPyP4 treatment substantially reduced gene expression of MPXV proteins. In summary, our work provides insights into the G‐quadruplexes from the MPXV genome that can be further exploited to develop therapeutics.
Current status, technology, regulation and future perspectives of essential oils usage in the food and drink industry
Authors: Tsitlakidou Petroula , Tasopoulos Nikolaos , Chatzopoulou Paschalina , Mourtzinos Ioannis
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, essential oils (EOs) have a wide use in many applications such as in food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and animal feed products. Consumers’ preferences concerning healthier and safer foodstuffs lead to an increased demand for natural products, in replacement of synthetic substances, used as preservatives, flavourings etc. EOs, besides being safe, are promising alternatives as natural food additives, and much research has been carried out on their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The initial purpose of this review is to discuss conventional and ‘green’ extraction techniques along with their basic mechanism for the isolation of EOs from aromatic plants. This review aims to provide a broad overview of the current knowledge about the chemical constitution of EOs while considering the existence of different chemotypes, since bioactivity is attributed to the chemical composition – qualitative and quantitative – of EOs. Although the food industry primarily uses EOs as flavourings, an overview on recent applications of EOs in food systems and active packaging is provided. EOs exhibit poor solubility in water, oxidation susceptibility, negative organoleptic effect and volatility, restricting their use. Encapsulation techniques have been proven to be one of the best approaches to preserve the biological activities of EOs and minimize their effects on food sensory qualities. Herein, different encapsulation techniques and their basic mechanism for loading EOs are discussed. EOs are highly accepted by consumers, who are often under the misconception that ‘natural’ means safe. This is, however, an oversimplification, and the possible toxicity of EOs should be taken into consideration. Thus, in the final section of the current review, the focus is on current EU legislation, safety assessment and sensory evaluation of EOs. © 2023 The Authors.Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculturepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Territory establishment and microhabitat selection of Bachman's sparrows in a Mississippi pine forest
Authors: Todaro Holly M. , Evans Kristine O. , Rush Scott A. , McConnell Mark D.
Published: May 2023

Bachman's sparrows (Peucaea aestivalis) are an obligate southern open pine forest species linked to disturbance regimes (e.g., fire, windthrow) that reduce canopy cover and promote herbaceous groundcover needed for nesting, foraging, and concealment from predators. Early successional groundstory characteristics suitable for Bachman's sparrows are ephemeral in nature, raising questions about the perceived visual cues created by vegetation structural characteristics and how these characteristics influence multi‐scale habitat selection. We quantified habitat selection for 40 breeding and post‐breeding male Bachman's sparrows within 5 separately managed open pine management sub‐units at Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge in east‐central Mississippi, USA, from 2020–2021. We captured and color‐banded 20 individuals each year and used weekly resight locations and resource selection function models to assess factors influencing territory establishment (i.e., second‐order selection) within our study area, and microhabitat selection (i.e., third‐order selection) within territories. Bachman's sparrow territory establishment was positively influenced by evergreen cover and fire disturbance, and negatively influenced by tree canopy cover, and distance to unpaved roads. Within territories, sparrows selected areas with a greater basal area of pine (18 m2/ha), more available perching options (>9), and an abundance of native herbaceous groundcover (>36%). They also selected recently burned areas (1–3 yr) with low visual obstruction (<40 cm), and a low percent coverage of leaf litter (<33%). A better understanding of territory establishment and microhabitat selection of the Bachman's sparrow underscores the importance of frequent fire and is helpful in guiding conservation and management efforts for this declining species.
Utilizing Dynamic Risk Stratification in Patients With Tall Cell Variant Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Zimmer David , Plitt Gilman , Prendes Brandon , Ku Jamie , Silver Natalie , Lamarre Eric , Yilmaz Emrullah , Geiger Jessica , Nasr Christian , El Hage Lea , Skugor Mario , Cambpell Shauna , Koyfman Shlomo , Miller Jacob , Woody Neil , Heiden Katherine , Joshi Nikhil , Elsheikh Tarik , Li Hong , Scharpf Joseph
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Tall cell variant (TCV) papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is a subtype of PTC associated with aggressive tumor behavior, advanced stage, and higher rates of recurrence and mortality. The present study aimed to test an established dynamic risk stratification tool in the TCV population, with the goal of better predicting the postoperative course of these patients.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

A total of 94 patients with TCV who underwent total thyroidectomy with radioactive iodine ablation were retrospectively reviewed from 1998 through 2020. Biochemical, structural, and overall response to treatment was determined for each patient, based on postoperative thyroglobulin levels and imaging findings. Primary outcomes were locoregional and distant recurrence, presence of disease at final follow‐up, need for additional intervention, and disease‐specific mortality.

Results

Patients with TCV who were stratified as having an excellent overall response to treatment had lower rates of locoregional recurrence than indeterminate, biochemical incomplete, and structural incomplete responses (2.0%, 33.3%, 55.0%, and 85.7% at 5 years respectively, p < 0.001). The same was true for distant recurrence as well (2.0%, 9.0%, 35.1%, and 42.9%, p < 0.001). An excellent response was also associated with lower rates of presence of disease at final follow‐up, need for additional intervention, and disease‐specific mortality.

Conclusions

Although TCV is an aggressive subtype associated with worse clinical outcomes than classical PTC, patients with an excellent overall response to treatment have significantly improved outcomes when compared to indeterminate, biochemical incomplete, and structural incomplete responses.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:2430–2438, 2023