bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salt hydrates as phase change materials for photovoltaics thermal management
Authors: Choo Yee Min , Wei Wei
Published: November 2021

Recently, phase change materials (PCMs) are acquiring much attention for the overall enhancement of photovoltaic (PV) systems' performance, because of their extraordinary property in temperature management. Many researchers have been incorporating PCMs in PV systems. However, the tested materials are principally organic PCMs. In this review, a comprehensive literature of PV systems with utilization of inorganic PCMs is introduced. Salt hydrates are the focus materials. They, in general, have comparative properties as organic PCMs and are better from safety and environmental standpoints. The characterization, properties, and applications of the salt hydrates in PV‐PCM research are discussed in this paper. Indeed, even most research shows promising outcomes, there is still need in data collection for more detailed and accurate system performance evaluation. Therefore, the real‐life application of this type of PV‐PCM system is still a long way from clear due to the discovered challenges. Finally, the possibilities of future research on PV‐PCM systems are highlighted, innovative technologies are to be discovered and addressed to defeat the current issues including system reliability and economic attainability.
Survey of germline variants in cancer‐associated genes in young adults with colorectal cancer
Authors: Mikaeel Reger R. , Young Joanne P. , Li Yun , Smith Eric , Horsnell Mehgan , Uylaki Wendy , Tapia Rico Gonzalo , Poplawski Nicola K. , Hardingham Jennifer E. , Tomita Yoko , Townsend Amanda R. , Feng Jinghua , Zibat Arne , Kaulfuß Silke , Müller Christian , Yigit Gökhan , Wollnik Bernd , Price Timothy J.
Published: November 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence in young adults is rising. Identifying genetic risk factors is fundamental for the clinical management of patients and their families. This study aimed to identify clinically significant germline variants among young adults with CRC. Whole‐exome sequencing data of blood‐derived DNA from 133 unrelated young CRC patients (<55 years of age) underwent a comprehensive analysis of 133 cancer‐predisposition/implicated genes. All patient tumors were evaluated for mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR). Among 133 patients (aged 16–54 years), 15% (20/133) had clinically actionable pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in at least 1 well established cancer‐predisposing gene: dMMR genes (6), MUTYH [bi‐allelic (2), mono‐allelic (3)], RNF43 (1), BMPR1A (1), BRCA2 (4), ATM (1), RAD51C (1), and BRIP1 (1). Five patients (4%) had variants in genes implicated in cancer but where the significance of germline variants in CRC risk is uncertain: GATA2 (1), ERCC2 (mono‐allelic) (1), ERCC4 (mono‐allelic) (1), CFTR (2). Fourteen (11%) had dMMR tumors. Eighteen (14%) reported a first‐degree relative with CRC, but only three of these carried P/LP variants. Three patients with variants in polyposis‐associated genes showed no polyposis (one each in MUTYH [bi‐allelic], RNF43, and BMPR1A). Approximately one in five young adults in our series carried at least one P/LP variant in a cancer‐predisposing/implicated gene; 80% of these variants are currently considered clinically actionable in a familial cancer setting. Family history and phenotype have limitations for genetic risk prediction; therefore multigene panel testing and genetic counseling are warranted for all young adults with CRC regardless of those two factors.
Defining high‐risk elective contralateral neck radiation volumes for oropharynx cancer
Authors: Witek Matthew E. , Woody Neil M. , Musunuru Hima B. , Hill Patrick M. , Yadav Poonam , Burr Adam R. , Ko Huaising C. , Ross Richard B. , Kimple Randall J. , Harari Paul M.
Published: November 2021

Background

To define the location of the initial contralateral lymph node (LN) metastasis in patients with oropharynx cancer.

Methods

The location of the LN centroids from patients with oropharynx cancer and a single radiographically positive contralateral LN was defined. A clinical target volume (CTV) inclusive of all LN centroids was created, and its impact on dose to organs at risk was assessed.

Results

We identified 55 patients of which 49/55 had a single contralateral LN in level IIA, 4/55 in level III, 1/55 in level IIB, and 1/55 in the retropharynx. Mean radiation dose to the contralateral parotid gland was 15.1 and 21.0 Gy, (p <0.001) using the modeled high‐risk elective CTV and a consensus CTV, respectively.

Conclusions

We present a systematic approach for identifying the contralateral nodal regions at highest risk of harboring subclinical disease in patients with oropharynx cancer that warrants prospective clinical study.
Quality assessment of cold chain storage facilities for regulatory and quality management compliance in a developing country context
Authors: Chukwu Otuto Amarauche , Adibe Maxwell
Published: November 2021

Background

Supply chain management is essential for cold chain medicines since they are temperature‐controlled and must be maintained within a specific temperature range to ensure product integrity and quality. In Nigeria, guidelines that address drug distribution do not adequately address the issue of cold chain management in addition to challenges in implementation. Given the chaotic medicines distribution system, this study examined the quality of practice of supply chain management of cold chain products in line with the World Health Organisation's Expert Committee report on Specifications for Pharmaceutical Preparations.

Methods

The study was set in Abuja Nigeria and descriptive survey was used to explore cold chain supply management. A checklist developed from regulatory requirements stipulated by the World Health Organisation covering documentations, storage and distribution guidelines was used to assess supply chain management of cold chain medicines across various facilities. Data were analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.

Results

The results from this study showed that most of the storage facilities assessed (66.7%) did not meet up to the required standards of quality management for cold chain products. In addition, 50.4% of retail and hospital pharmacy facilities performed poorly in cold chain management practices. Many of aspects of quality management guidelines and regulations were not met by the facilities. Most facilities (66.7%) do not have their equipment calibrated, 43.6% of the hospital and retail pharmacies assessed do not have an automated system to cater for power failure while 37.6% do not perform a temperature check on cold chain products before receiving from suppliers.

Conclusion

The study has shown that the levels of the supply chain assessed for quality management and regulatory compliance performed poorly. There was limited availability and use of validated quality monitoring systems for cold chain medicines in these facilities.
A numerical study on nonlinear DPL model for analyzing heat transfer in tissue during thermal therapy
Authors: Maurya Pooja , Kumar Dinesh , Sharma Sunil Kumar , Upadhyay V.
Published: November 2021

In the present paper, therapeutic treatment of infected tumorous cells has been studied through mathematical modeling and simulation of heat transfer in tissues by using a nonlinear dual‐phase lag bioheat transfer model with Dirichlet boundary condition. The components of volumetric heat source in this model such as blood perfusion and metabolism are assumed experimentally validated temperature‐dependent function, which gives more accurate temperature distribution in tissues through this model. We have used the finite difference and RK (4, 5) techniques of numerical methods to solve the proposed problem and obtained the exact solution in a particular case. After comparison, we got a good agreement between them. We have used dimensionless quantities throughout this paper. The effect of relaxation and thermalization time with respect to dimensionless temperature distribution has been analyzed in the treatment process.
Potential of long non‐coding RNA KCNQ1OT1 as a biomarker reflecting systemic inflammation, multiple organ dysfunction, and mortality risk in sepsis patients
Authors: Jiao Wei , Zhou Xin , Wu Jian , Zhang Xuesong , Ding Jun
Published: November 2021

Background

Long non‐coding RNA potassium voltage‐gated channel subfamily Q member 1 opposite strand 1 (lnc‐KCNQ1OT1) represses inflammation and multiple organ dysfunction, whereas its clinical value in sepsis is unclear. Thus, this study aimed to explore this issue.

Methods

Lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were detected by RT‐qPCR in 116 sepsis patients and 60 healthy controls (HCs). Moreover, sepsis patients were followed‐up until death or up to 28 days.

Results

Lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 decreased in patients with sepsis than in HCs (p < 0.001). In sepsis patients, lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 was negatively correlated with sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores (r = −0.344, p < 0.001) and several SOFA subscale scores (including respiratory system, coagulation, liver, and renal systems) (all r < 0, p < 0.05). Furthermore, lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 was negatively correlated with CRP (r = −0.386, p < 0.001), TNF‐α (r = −0.332, p < 0.001), IL‐1β (r = −0.319, p < 0.001), and IL‐6 (r = −0.255, p = 0.006). Additionally, lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 levels were lower in sepsis deaths than in sepsis survivors (p < 0.001), and the receiver operating characteristic curve showed that lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 had an acceptable ability to predict 28‐day mortality (area under the curve: 0.780, 95% confidence interval: 0.678–0.882). Meanwhile, its ability to predict 28‐day mortality risk was higher than that of CRP, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6, but slightly lower than the SOFA score and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score.

Conclusion

Lnc‐KCNQ1OT1 serves as a potential biomarker for monitoring disease severity and prognosis in patients with sepsis.
Long noncoding RNA TUG1 upregulates VEGFA to enhance malignant behaviors in stomach adenocarcinoma by sponging miR‐29c‐3p
Authors: Jin Yanzhao , Cao Jiaqing , Hu Xiaoyun , Cheng Hua
Published: November 2021

Background

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) TUG1 has been reported to display a pivotal role in the tumorigenesis and malignant progression of various types of cancers, including stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD). However, the contribution of aberrant expression of TUG1 and the mechanism by which it serves as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in STAD remains largely obscure.

Methods

The human STAD cell lines (MGC‐803 and AGS), human normal gastric epithelial cell line (GES‐1), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293T) were purchased and cultured to investigate the roles of TUG1 in STAD. Twenty BALB/c nude mice were purchased to establish a xenograft model to explore the roles of TUG1 in vivo.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis revealed that TUG1 was upregulated in STAD, of which expression was negatively and positively correlated with miR‐29c‐3p and VEGFA, respectively. Functional analyses indicated that TUG1 functioned as an oncogene to promote malignant behaviors (proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis) of STAD cells; whereas miR‐29c‐3p exerted the opposite role. Mechanistically, the interaction between miR‐29c‐3p with TUG1 and VEGFA was demonstrated. It was observed that miR‐29c‐3p could reverse the TUG1‐induced promotion effect on cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in STAD. Furthermore, TUG1 overexpression promoted STAD cell proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis, whereas VEGFA silence restored these effects, both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

This finding confirmed that lncRNA TUG1 acts as a ceRNA for miR‐29c‐3p to promote tumor progression and angiogenesis by upregulating VEGFA, indicating TUG1 as a therapeutic target in STAD management.
Geographic Barriers Affect Follow‐Up Care in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Alwani Tooba , Shehan Jennifer N. , LeClair Jessica , Mahoney Taylor F. , Agarwal Pratima , Chaudhry Salil T. , Wang Judy J. , Noordzij Jacob P. , Tracy Lauren F. , Edwards Heather A. , Grillone Gregory , Salama Andrew R. , Jalisi Scharukh M. , Devaiah Anand K.
Published: November 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Follow‐up care in head and neck cancers (HNC) is critical in managing patient health. However, social determinants of health (SDOH) can create difficulties in maintaining follow‐up care. The study goal is to explore how SDOH impacts maintenance of HNC follow‐up care appointments.

Methods

A systematic retrospective chart review of 877 HNC patients diagnosed in the past 10 years a safety‐net tertiary care hospital with systems to help reduce care disparities. Cohort groups were identified and compared against protocols for follow‐up. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, chi‐square tests, Fisher's exact tests, two‐sample t‐tests, and simple linear regression.

Results

The average length of follow‐up time in months and average total number of follow‐ups over 5 years were 32.96 (34.60) and 9.24 (7.87), respectively. There was no significant difference in follow‐up care between United States (US) versus non‐US born and English versus non‐English speaking patients. Race/ethnicity, county median household income, insurance status, and county educational attainment were not associated with differences in follow‐up. However, living a greater distance from the hospital was associated with lower follow‐up length and less frequency in follow‐up (P < .0001).

Conclusion

While income, primary language, country of birth, race/ethnicity, insurance status, and markers of educational attainment do not appear to impact HNC follow‐up at our safety‐net, tertiary care institution, and distance from hospital remains an important contributor to disparities in care. This study shows that many barriers to care can be addressed in a model that addresses SDOH, but there are barriers that still require additional systems and resources. Laryngoscope, 132:1022–1028, 2022
Synthesis of Hyperbranched Polymers via PET‐RAFT Self‐Condensing Vinyl Polymerization in a Flow Reactor
Authors: Rong Li‐Han , Cheng Xiang , Ge Jin , Caldona Eugene B. , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: November 2021

Photoinduced polymerization techniques have been used in preparing various polymeric materials as they share several advantages with thermally‐triggered processes using mild conditions, low catalyst concentrations, and easy‐to‐perform experimental conditions. By combining photoinduced eletrotransfer reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization with self‐condensing vinyl polymerization (SCVP), in this work, a series of hyperbranched polymers is prepared in a flow reactor. Considered to be an alternative powerful method in improving scalability, reliability, and efficiency, the use of a flow reactor allowed us to synthesize hyperbranched poly(poly(ethylene glycol methyl ether)acrylate) (PPEGMEA) under extremely mild conditions–room temperature, open vessel, and use of LED light and water/methanol mixed solutions. The method also demonstrates considerable controllability in molecular weight and branching density by adjusting the feeding ratio of monomer to transmer, leading to the synthesis of block copolymers.
The Role of Polymer–AuNP Interaction in the Stimuli‐Response Properties of PPA–AuNP Nanocomposites
Authors: Núñez‐Martínez Manuel , Arias Sandra , Bergueiro Julián , Quiñoá Emilio , Riguera Ricardo , Freire Félix
Published: November 2021

The helical sense control of dynamic helical polymers such as poly(phenylacetylene)s (PPAs) is greatly affected when they are conjugated to AuNPs through a strong thiol‐Au connection, which restricts conformational changes at the polymer. Thus, the classical thiol‐MNP bonds must be replaced by weaker ones, such as supramolecular amide–Au interactions. A straightforward preparation of the PPA–Au nanocomposite by reduction of a preformed PPA–Au3+ complex cannot be used due to a redox reaction between the two components of the complex which degrades the polymer. To avoid the interaction between the PPA and the Au3+ ions before the reduction takes place, the metal ions are added to the polymer solution capped as a TOAB complex, which keeps the PPA stable due to the lack of PPA–Au3+ interactions. Ulterior reduction of the Au3+ ions by NaBH4 affords the desired nanocomposite, where the AuNPs are stabilized by supramolecular anilide–AuNPs interactions. By using this approach, 3.7 nm gold nanoparticles are generated and aligned along the polymer chain with a regular distance between particles of 6 nm that corresponds to two helical pitches. These nanocomposites show stimuli‐responsive properties and are also able to form macroscopically chiral nanospheres with tunable size.
Some novel inequalities for LR‐h‐convex interval‐valued functions by means of pseudo‐order relation
Authors: Bilal Khan Muhammad , Noor Muhammad Aslam , M. Al‐Shomrani Mohammed , Abdullah Lazim
Published: November 2021

In both theoretical and applied mathematics fields, integral inequalities play a critical role. Due to the behavior of the definition of convexity, both concepts convexity and integral inequality depend on each other. Therefore, the relationship between convexity and integral inequality is strong. By the importance of these concepts, we have introduced the new class of generalized convex function is known as LR‐
‐convex interval‐valued function (LR‐
‐convex‐IVF) by means of pseudo‐order relation (≤p). This order relation is defined on interval space. Under the new concept, first, both discrete and continuous new versions of Jensen‐type inequalities are presented by means of pseudo‐order relation. Second, several new Hermite–Hadamard (HH)‐ and Hermite–Hadamard–Fejér (HH‐Fejér)‐type inequalities are also derived for LR‐
‐convex‐IVFs. Moreover, we have shown that our results include a wide class of new and known inequalities for LR‐
‐convex‐IVFs and their variant forms as special cases. Useful examples that verify the applicability of the theory developed in this study are presented. It the end, we have proved that the set inclusion “⊆” coincident to pseudo‐order relation “≤p.” The concepts and techniques of this paper may be the starting point for further research in this area and used as a tool to investigate the research of probability and optimization, among others.
A compact dual‐band multi‐input multi‐output antenna for 5G/WLAN/Bluetooth applications
Authors: Xi Shuqi , Huang Jianlin , Chen Bo , Liu Gui
Published: November 2021

A compact multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) antenna system with dual‐band characteristics is presented in this paper. The radiating element consists of an E‐shaped strip and a modified arrow‐shaped strip. The utilization of the modified arrow‐shaped strip can generate dual‐band operation while the isolation is enhanced by neutral line structure. The measured −10 dB reflection coefficient can cover 2.28–2.7 GHz and 4.96–6.1 GHz frequency bands. The mutual coupling is less than −15 dB over the lower and higher frequency bands. The envelope correlation coefficient is less than 0.06. The proposed MIMO antenna is a good candidate for 5G/WLAN/Bluetooth applications.
Accountability and transparency in emerging countries: Governance, democratic currents and change
Authors: Samaratunge Ramanie , Alam Quamrul
Published: November 2021

Accountability and transparency are evolving challenges to governance and public administration in a highly complex global governance system. It is a difficult challenge in the emerging economies due to a significant deficit in democratic policy and institutional effectiveness. Few will discount the seemingly insurmountable challenges emerging economies face, whether these be economic, social inequality or social transformation. In light of these issues, accountability has been compromised or even neglected. We no sooner settle on a prescription for redress of governance and behavioural deficits than conditions in the world around us change, necessitating yet another round of reflection, analysis and policy development. This introduction to the Special Issue summarises and highlights some of the most salient features of accountability, transparency and governance capability confronted by public administration systems in emerging economies. Countries are faced with the need to make choices about their institutions and their actions within the broader framework of improving service delivery within a highly internationalised public administration system. Choices are made based on capacity, history and politics. These issues are by their nature contentious and contested, and it is no bad thing that this should be so, because out of contest come lessons about future choices and actions.
Native for whom: A mixed‐methods literature review and synthesis to conceptualise biotic nativeness for social research in the urban context
Authors: Kaplan Haylee , Prahalad Vishnu , Kendal Dave
Published: November 2021

The idea of which species are native, based on their biogeographic origin, is central to many policies and programmes. Yet definitions are contested and the meanings of ‘nativeness’ are often complex and confusing for many people. For example, a plant that would be considered 'native' in Australia might have a native bioregion that is thousands of kilometres from a given garden planting. The idea of nativeness is culturally constructed and connotes different meanings in different contexts. As conservation research and practice increasingly incorporate human values and behaviours, operationalising the social dimensions of abstract ecological concepts such as nativeness is needed to generate a more holistic evidence base and improve the management of native and non‐native species.

We used a sequential mixed‐methods systematic review approach to review and synthesise literature on people's (including general publics, gardeners, conservationists) perceptions of nativeness of species and landscapes. A meta‐synthesis of qualitative research identified six dimensions that underlie people's perceptions in relation to nativeness: Belonging (a sense that there is a right or wrong place for a species to exist); human influence (the role of humans in moving species outside of their historic ranges); functional compatibility (a species' alignment with the local environment and ecology); amenity (desirable and useful features provided by a species); negative impacts (risk and manageability of detrimental impacts caused by a species); and identity (species forming part of one's place‐based identity).

A systematic review of the quantitative urban literature found that most research on perceptions of native and non‐native species and landscapes did not operationalise nativeness in a multidimensional way, focusing predominantly on the ‘Negative impacts’ dimension. This may often be inadequate for meaningfully capturing people's views.

Our results also highlight the need to strengthen interdisciplinarity between natural and social sciences, and for better integration of social science theories to improve the interpretability and transferability of research findings.

We provide recommendations for future research that operationalises nativeness using a broader range of meanings that will inform a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the human dimensions of conservation issues, especially within the contested and briskly evolving terrain of urban greening.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
A novel high phosphorus‐efficiency phosphaphenanthrene curing agent for fabricating flame retardant and toughened epoxy thermoset
Authors: Yao Zhongying , Qiu Yong , Qian Lijun , Xu Bo
Published: November 2021

A novel high phosphorus‐efficiency phosphaphenanthrene curing agent (VND) was synthesized successfully using bio‐based vanillin, N‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine, and 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10 phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO). Then, as co‐curing agent, VND combined with 4, 4′‐diaminodiphenyl methane (DDM) to fabricate flame retardant epoxy thermosets (VND/EP/DDM). The VND/EP/DDM thermosets exhibited excellent flame‐retardant performance and toughness, simultaneously. With only 0.35 wt% phosphorus loading, 6%VND/EP/DDM achieved a LOI value of 39.2%, and passed UL94 V‐0 rating. The three reactive functional groups in VND made itself better interpose in the burning process of thermoset matrix, endowing VND with higher efficiency in facilitating matrix carbonization. Meanwhile, the decomposition volatile tracking disclosed the inhibition effect of VND on oxidative cracking. Through gas‐ and condensed‐phased actions, VND decreased the heat release and smoke production of burning epoxy thermosets, efficiently. In addition, three reactive functional groups in VND also brought itself good toughening effect on thermoset matrix, endowing epoxy thermoset with better anti‐impact performance. The flame retarding and toughening behavior of VND provides a new insight to development advanced flame‐retardant epoxy thermosets.
Distinguishing between different types of multi‐layered PET‐based backsheets of PV modules with near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Stroyuk Oleksandr , Buerhop‐Lutz Claudia , Vetter Andreas , Hepp Johannes , Hauch Jens , Peters Ian Marius , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: November 2021

Degradation of backsheets (BSs) of commercial silicon PV modules is currently recognized as a source of reduced module performance and module failure. Monitoring of the BS state in the field is possible by using non‐destructive and highly informative near‐infrared absorption (NIRA) spectroscopy. Application of NIRA for the analysis of multi‐layer polyethylene terephtalate (PET) based BSs, which dominate the PV module market, is challenging due to a large variety of possible BS configurations that show only small differences in NIRA spectra. In the present work, a spectroscopic tool for the structural identification of PET‐based BSs is introduced. The method is based on a principal component analysis of a database of 250 representative NIRA spectra of BSs of different types. It allows a BS with an unknown structure to be assigned to one of 12 different types based solely on its NIRA spectrum. The identification was successfully validated on a test collection of 45 selected BSs and shown to be feasible for the field deployment. Further automation of NIRA measurements and spectral analysis are expected to elevate the proposed tool to the level of a non‐intrusive high‐throughput field analysis of the BS composition and state in operating PV module grids.
Protection by desiccation‐tolerance proteins probed at the residue level
Authors: Crilly Candice J. , Brom Julia A. , Warmuth Owen , Esterly Harrison J. , Pielak Gary J.
Published: November 2021

Extremotolerant organisms from all domains of life produce protective intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) in response to desiccation stress. In vitro, many of these IDPs protect enzymes from dehydration stress better than U.S. Food and Drug Administration‐approved excipients. However, as with most excipients, their protective mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we apply thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and liquid‐observed vapor exchange (LOVE) NMR to study the protection of two model globular proteins (the B1 domain of staphylococcal protein G [GB1] and chymotrypsin inhibitor 2 [CI2]) by two desiccation‐tolerance proteins (CAHS D from tardigrades and PvLEA4 from an anhydrobiotic midge), as well as by disordered and globular protein controls. We find that all protein samples retain similar amounts of water and possess similar glass transition temperatures, suggesting that neither enhanced water retention nor vitrification is responsible for protection. LOVE NMR reveals that IDPs protect against dehydration‐induced unfolding better than the globular protein control, generally protect the same regions of GB1 and CI2, and protect GB1 better than CI2. These observations suggest that electrostatic interactions, charge patterning, and expanded conformations are key to protection. Further application of LOVE NMR to additional client proteins and protectants will deepen our understanding of dehydration protection, enabling the streamlined production of dehydrated proteins for expanded use in the medical, biotechnology, and chemical industries.
First reported case of late recurrence of pulmonary mucormycosis in a renal transplant recipient with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus
Authors: Leung Cheuk Cheung Derek , Chan Yu Hong , Ho Man Ying , Chan Ming Chiu , Chen Chun Hoi , Kwok Chin Tong , Yeung Yiu Cheong
Published: November 2021

Pulmonary mucormycosis (PM) is a rare, life‐threatening fungal infection usually affecting immunocompromised patients. Its incidence is rising, with a recent outbreak associated with COVID‐19 co‐infection. Amphotericin B along with early surgery are considered the standard treatment. Recurrence has been reported in patients without adequate treatment and without permanent reversal of predisposing factors. We report a case of late recurrence of PM in a renal transplant recipient. In 2012, he was diagnosed with PM. Imaging at the time showed a lingular mass. He was treated with antifungal for 1 year until complete radiological resolution. Surgical intervention was considered but no further follow‐up action was taken. In 2020, he presented with fever and haemoptysis. Imaging again showed a lingular mass, which was confirmed to be PM by bronchoscopic lung biopsy. This case highlights the importance of secondary antifungal prophylaxis for PM if permanent reversal of immunosuppression is not possible.
The relationship between birth satisfaction, posttraumatic stress disorder and postnatal depression symptoms in Croatian women
Authors: Nakić Radoš Sandra , Martinić Laura , Matijaš Marijana , Brekalo Maja , Martin Colin R.
Published: November 2021

Studies show that a woman's dissatisfaction with her birth experience may affect her well‐being. This study aimed to examine: (1) the birth satisfaction in Croatian women and compare it with UK normative data; (2) the association of different dimensions of birth satisfaction with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms. In a cross‐sectional online study, 603 postnatal Croatian women completed the Birth Satisfaction Scale‐Revised (subscales: Stress experienced during labour (SL), Women's personal attributes (WA), and Quality of care provision (QC)); City Birth Trauma Scale (subscales: Birth‐related symptoms and General symptoms); and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Subscale and total scale scores were calculated. Path analysis tested the model of three aspects of birth satisfaction effect on PTSD dimensions and depressive symptoms. The average birth satisfaction score was significantly lower compared to the UK data on the total scale and all three subscale scores. Path analysis revealed that all three dimensions of birth satisfaction (SL, WA, and QC) had an effect on Birth‐related symptoms. However, only Women's personal attributes (i.e., feeling anxiety or being in control during childbirth) had an effect on General symptoms and depressive symptoms, as well. Different aspects of birth satisfaction are important for maternal mental health following childbirth.
Sculpting the Plasmonic Responses of Nanoparticles by Directed Electron Beam Irradiation
Authors: Roccapriore Kevin M. , Cho Shin‐Hum , Lupini Andrew R. , Milliron Delia J. , Kalinin Sergei V.
Published: November 2021

Spatial confinement of matter in functional nanostructures has propelled these systems to the forefront of nanoscience, both as a playground for exotic physics and quantum phenomena and in multiple applications including plasmonics, optoelectronics, and sensing. In parallel, the emergence of monochromated electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) has enabled exploration of local nanoplasmonic functionalities within single nanoparticles and the collective response of nanoparticle assemblies, providing deep insight into associated mechanisms. However, modern synthesis processes for plasmonic nanostructures are often limited in the types of accessible geometry, and materials and are limited to spatial precisions on the order of tens of nm, precluding the direct exploration of critical aspects of the structure‐property relationships. Here, the atomic‐sized probe of the scanning transmission electron microscope is used to perform precise sculpting and design nanoparticle configurations. Using low‐loss EELS, dynamic analyses of the evolution of the plasmonic response are provided. It is shown that within self‐assembled systems of nanoparticles, individual nanoparticles can be selectively removed, reshaped, or patterned with nanometer‐level resolution, effectively modifying the plasmonic response in both space and energy. This process significantly increases the scope for design possibilities and presents opportunities for unique structure development, which are ultimately the key for nanophotonic design.
Synthesis of Uniform Polymer Encapsulated Organic Nanocrystals through Ouzo Nanocrystallization
Authors: Middha Eshu , Chen Chengjian , Manghnani Purnima Naresh , Wang Shaowei , Zhen Shijie , Zhao Zujin , Liu Bin
Published: November 2021

Nanocrystals (NCs) are widely used in optoelectronics, photocatalysis, and bioimaging. As the surface area to volume ratio increases with a decrease in the size of NCs, strategies to control the size of NCs are highly valuable for many applications. Given the importance of photoluminescent dyes, especially those with aggregation‐induced emission, the transformation from an amorphous to a crystalline state can yield a drastic enhancement in their optical properties, which is of significance for biomedical applications. Till now, there is no general method available for the synthesis of small NCs with accurate control over the size and uniformity. Herein, a simple and general approach of ouzo nanocrystallization is presented for the synthesis of small (<100 nm) and highly uniform (polydispersity index~0.1) NCs with good control over the size. The process of nanoprecipitation is used to synthesize uniform nanoparticles (NPs) with different size, which is followed by solvent addition to form swollen NPs. Further, the amorphous core of swollen NPs is converted into NCs within polymer shell under Ouzo zone, which restricts NCs to grow above certain size. To demonstrate the general applicability of ouzo nanocrystallization, two different classes of luminescent materials are used as examples to fabricate small and highly uniform NCs.
Engineering CXCL12 Biomimetic Decoy‐Integrated Versatile Immunosuppressive Nanoparticle for Ischemic Stroke Therapy with Management of Overactivated Brain Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Shi Jinjin , Yang Yue , Yin Na , Liu Changhua , Zhao Yuzhen , Cheng Hui , Zhou Tonghai , Zhang Zhenzhong , Zhang Kaixiang
Published: November 2021

Following ischemic stroke, brain‐resident activated microglia and peripherally infiltrated inflammatory cells create a complicated and overactivated brain immune microenvironment, which causes neuron death and dramatically hinders neurological functional recovery. Herein, an engineering CXCL12 biomimetic decoy‐integrated versatile immunosuppressive nanoparticle (VIN) for management of the overactivated brain immune microenvironment is reported. The shell of VIN (membrane of CXCR4 overexpressed mesenchymal stem cells), can not only improve the homing of nanoparticles to the cerebral ischemic lesions, but also efficiently adsorb and neutralize CXCL12 to cut off infiltration of peripheral‐neutrophils and mononuclear macrophages. The loaded A151 (cGAS inhibitor, telomerase repeat sequences) can inhibit cGAS‐STING pathway in microglia, leading to microglia polarization toward an anti‐inflammatory M2‐like phenotype. Interestingly, A151 can be efficiently loaded onto the polydopamine nanospheres (PDA, the core of VIN) through the bridge of Zn2+. In the inflammatory site, PDA is oxidized by reactive oxygen species (ROS), with the disappearance of Zn2+ complexation effect, and then A151 realizes a controlled release. In a model of rat ischemic stroke, VIN integrates inflammation tropism, peripherally inflammatory cells filtrate, brain‐resident activated microglia polarization, as well as, ROS scavenging, exerting outstanding therapeutic effects on ameliorating the mortality, reducing the infarct volume, and protecting neurogenic functions of neurons.
Profiling and controlling I/O‐related memory contention in COTS heterogeneous platforms
Authors: Zini Matteo , Cicero Giorgiomaria , Casini Daniel , Biondi Alessandro
Published: November 2021

Motivated by the increasing number of embedded applications that make use of traffic‐intensive I/O devices, this work studies the memory contention generated by I/O devices and investigates on the regulation of the bus traffic they generate by means of COTS regulators, namely the QoS‐400 by Arm. To this purpose, the behavior of the QoS‐400 regulators is analytically characterized and then, taking the Xilinx Ultrascale+ as a reference modern heterogeneous platform, a software infrastructure to control such regulators from Linux is proposed. As an experience report, this article presents the results of an extensive experimental evaluation, based on both benchmarks and microbenchmarks, aimed at validating the effectiveness of QoS‐400 regulators in predictably controlling I/O‐related memory traffic, as well as assessing the impact of the regulation on software applications and I/O devices themselves.
Erneuerung Saaneviadukt inkl. Doppelspurausbau
Authors: Somaini Diego , Fürst Armand , Laffranchi Massimo
Published: November 2021

Der Saaneviadukt ist Teil der Bahnstrecke Bern–Neuenburg und quert die Gümmenenau, eine ca. 800 m breite Talebene, welche nach dem Gletscherrückzug durch den Flusslauf der Saane gebildet wurde. Der Saaneviadukt ist, wie der Rhein‐Viadukt bei Eglisau (1898) oder der Sitterviadukt der Bodensee‐Toggenburg‐Bahn (1908–1910), als Natursteinviadukt mit hohen Pfeilern und einer großen Mittelöffnung über dem Flusslauf konzipiert, welcher durch ein filigranes Stahlfachwerk überbrückt wird. Als Verlängerung des Viadukts Richtung Osten und zur Querung der zweiten Hälfte der Talebene folgt ein imposanter, 400 m langer und ca. 25 m hoher, künstlich erstellter Erddamm, auf welchem das einspurige Bahngleis bis zum angrenzenden Geländeplateau führt. Der knapp 120 Jahre alte Saaneviadukt, ein schweizerisches Baudenkmal von nationaler Bedeutung, wurde erneuert und auf Doppelspur ausgebaut.
Organoid Technology: Current Standing and Future Perspectives
Authors: Shariati Laleh , Esmaeili Yasaman , Haghjooy Javanmard Shaghayegh , Bidram Elham , Amini Abbas
Published: November 2021

Organoids are powerful systems to facilitate the study of individuals' disorders and personalized treatments. This emerging technology has improved the chance of translatability of drugs for preclinical therapies and mimicking of the complexity of organs, proposing numerous approaches for human disease modeling, tissue engineering, drug development, diagnosis, and regenerative medicine. In this review, we outline the history of organoid technology and summarize its faithful applications, and then we discuss the challenges and limitations encountered by three-dimensional organoids. Finally, we propose that human organoids offer a basic mechanistic infrastructure for “human modeling” systems to prescribe personalized medicines.
Impaired Generation of Mature Neurons Due to Extended Expression of Tlx by Repressing Sox2 Transcriptional Activity
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Bin , Dong Lianwei , Duan Weibing , Neuerburg Anna , Zhang Han , Jiang Xijuan , Shao Rui , Zhu Yan , Bock Dagmar , Liu Erwei , Wang Hong , Zhang Yunsha , Dai Yifan , Yang Haiyuan , Wang Ying
Published: November 2021

As a master regulator of the dynamic process of adult neurogenesis, timely expression and regulation of the orphan nuclear receptor Tailless (Tlx) is essential. However, there is no study yet to directly investigate the essential role of precise spatiotemporal expressed Tlx. Here, we generated a conditional gain of Tlx expression transgenic mouse model, which allowed the extended Tlx expression in neural stem cells (NSCs) and their progeny by mating with a TlxCreERT2 mouse line. We demonstrate that extended expression of Tlx induced the impaired generation of mature neurons in adult subventricular zone and subgranular zone. Furthermore, we elucidated for the first time that this mutation decreased the endogenous expression of Sox2 by directly binding to its promoter. Restoration experiments further confirmed that Sox2 partially rescued these neuron maturation defects. Together, these findings not only highlight the importance of shutting-off Tlx on time in controlling NSC behavior, but also provide insights for further understanding adult neurogenesis and developing treatment strategies for neurological disorders.
Epigenetic Regulation of Neural Stem Cells: The Emerging Role of Nucleoporins
Authors: Colussi Claudia , Grassi Claudio
Published: November 2021

Nucleoporins (Nups) are components of the nuclear pore complex that, besides regulating nucleus-cytoplasmic transport, emerged as a hub for chromatin interaction and gene expression modulation. Specifically, Nups act in a dynamic manner both at specific gene level and in the topological organization of chromatin domains. As such, they play a fundamental role during development and determination of stemness/differentiation balance in stem cells. An increasing number of reports indicate the implication of Nups in many central nervous system functions with great impact on neurogenesis, neurophysiology, and neurological disorders. Nevertheless, the role of Nup-mediated epigenetic regulation in embryonic and adult neural stem cells (NSCs) is a field largely unexplored and the comprehension of their mechanisms of action is only beginning to be unveiled. After a brief overview of epigenetic mechanisms, we will present and discuss the emerging role of Nups as new effectors of neuroepigenetics and as dynamic platform for chromatin function with specific reference to the biology of NSCs.
Cell Cycle-Coupled Changes in the Level of Reactive Oxygen Species Support the Proliferation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Ivanova Julia S. , Pugovkina Natalia A. , Neganova Irina E. , Kozhukharova Irina V. , Nikolsky Nikolay N. , Lyublinskaya Olga G.
Published: November 2021

The study of proliferation regulation in human pluripotent stem cells is crucial to gain insights into understanding the physiology of these cells. However, redox regulation of the pluripotent cell cycle remains largely unexplored. Here, using human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) as well as human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), we demonstrate that the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in pluripotent cells oscillates in accordance with the cell cycle progression with the peak occurring at transition from S to G2/M phase of the cycle. A decrease of this level by antioxidants leads to hindered S-phase initiation and progression but does not affect the early-G1-phase or mitosis. Cells exposed to antioxidants in the early-G1-phase accumulate the phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein and overcome the restriction point but are unable to accumulate the main regulators of the S phase—CYCLIN A and GEMININ. Based on the previous findings that CYCLIN A stability is affected by redox homeostasis disturbances in somatic cells, we compared the responses to antioxidant treatments in hESCs and in their differentiated fibroblast-like progeny cells (difESCs). In difESCs, similar to hESCs, a decrease in ROS level results in the disruption of S-phase initiation accompanied by a deficiency of the CYCLIN A level. Moreover, in antioxidant-treated cells, we revealed the accumulation of DNA breaks, which was accompanied by activation of the apoptosis program in pluripotent cells. Thus, we conclude that maintaining the physiological ROS level is essential for promotion of proliferation and accurate DNA synthesis in pluripotent cells and their differentiated descendants.
Dopamine Regulates Adult Neurogenesis in the Ventricular-Subventricular Zone via Dopamine D3 Angiotensin Type 2 Receptor Interactions
Authors: Garcia-Garrote Maria , Parga Juan A. , Labandeira Pablo J. , Labandeira-Garcia Jose Luis , Rodriguez-Pallares Jannette
Published: November 2021

Adult neurogenesis is a dynamic and highly regulated process, and different studies suggest that dopamine modulates ventricular-subventricular zone (V-SVZ) neurogenesis. However, the specific role of dopamine and the mechanisms/factors underlying its effects on physiological and pathological conditions such as Parkinson's disease (PD) are not fully understood. Recent studies have described counter-regulatory interactions between renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and dopamine in peripheral tissues and in the nigrostriatal system. We have previously demonstrated that angiotensin receptors regulate proliferation and generation of neuroblasts in the rodent V-SVZ. However, possible interactions between dopamine receptors and RAS in the V-SVZ and their role in alterations of neurogenesis in animal models of PD have not been investigated. In V-SVZ cultures, activation of dopamine receptors induced changes in the expression of angiotensin receptors. Moreover, dopamine, via D2-like receptors and particularly D3 receptors, increased generation of neurospheres derived from the V-SVZ and this effect was mediated by angiotensin type-2 (AT2) receptors. In rats, we observed a marked reduction in proliferation and generation of neuroblasts in the V-SVZ of dopamine-depleted animals, and inhibition of AT1 receptors or activation of AT2 receptors restored proliferation and generation of neuroblasts to control levels. Moreover, intrastriatal mesencephalic grafts partially restored proliferation and generation of neuroblasts observed in the V-SVZ of dopamine-depleted rats. Our data revealed that dopamine and angiotensin receptor interactions play a major role in the regulation of V-SVZ and suggest potential beneficial effects of RAS modulators on the regulation of adult V-SVZ neurogenesis.
Conceptual data model for system resilience characterization
Authors: Laun Alexander , Mazzuchi Thomas A. , Sarkani Shahram
Published: November 2021

Naval leaders are increasingly demanding resilient maritime systems capable of effectively anticipating, responding to, recovering from, and adapting to a given environmental disruption. For engineers designing these systems, real‐world data, information, and knowledge must be leveraged to operationalize the concept of resilience, particularly during the verification process of the system life cycle. However, such data are commonly unstructured, poorly organized, and lacking in context. Resilience‐defining data may not even exist, necessitating a methodological approach to ensure that relevant data are actually collected during system operation. This paper presents a feasible conceptual data model to improve the process of characterizing a given system's resilient performance. The authors consider the prevailing literature from the systems engineering, resilience engineering, and data management communities, and a scenario involving a hurricane‐impacted ocean monitoring system is presented as a case study of the conceptual data model's utility. Ultimately, by using a resilience‐centric data modeling approach, systems engineers can better derive prescribed resilience measures and metrics for a given system or system‐of‐systems.