bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orchestrating Nitric Oxide and Carbon Monoxide Signaling Molecules for Synergistic Treatment of MRSA Infections
Authors: Gao Lei , Cheng Jian , Shen Zhiqiang , Zhang Guoying , Liu Shiyong , Hu Jinming
Published: October 2021

The local delivery of gaseous signaling molecules (GSMs) has shown promising therapeutic potential. However, although GSMs have a subtle interplay in physiological and pathological conditions, the co‐delivery of different GSMs for therapeutic purposes remains unexplored. Herein, we covalently graft a nitric oxide (NO)‐releasing N‐nitrosamine moiety onto the carbon monoxide (CO)‐releasing 3‐hydroxyflavone (3‐HF) antenna, resulting in the first NO/CO‐releasing donor. Under visible light irradiation, photo‐mediated co‐release of NO and CO reveals a superior antimicrobial effect toward Gram‐positive bacteria with a combination index of 0.053. The synergy of NO and CO hyperpolarizes and permeabilizes bacterial membranes, which, however, shows negligible hemolysis and no evident toxicity toward normal mammalian cells. Moreover, the co‐release of NO and CO can efficiently treat MRSA infection in a murine skin wound model, showing a better therapeutic capacity than vancomycin.
Stacked Reticular Frame Boosted Circularly Polarized Luminescence of Chiral Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Du Cong , Zhu Xuefeng , Yang Chenchen , Liu Minghua
Published: October 2021

Chiral covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) are intriguing as advanced chiroptical materials but have not been reported to date. We constructed chiroptical COF materials with CPL activity through the convenient Knoevenagel condensation of formyl‐functionalized axially chiral linkers and C3‐symmetric 1,3,5‐benzenetriacetonitrile. Remarkably, the as‐prepared chiral COFs showed high absorption and luminescent dissymmetric factors up to 0.02 (gabs) and 0.04 (glum), respectively. In contrast, the branched chiral polymers from the same starting monomers were CPL silent. Structural and spectral characterization revealed that the reticular frame was indispensable for CPL generation via confined chirality transfer. Moreover, reticular stacking boosted the CPL performance significantly due to the interlayer restriction of frame. This work demonstrates the first example of a CPL‐active COF and provides insight into CPL generation through covalent reticular chemistry, which will play a constructive role in the future design of high‐performance CPL materials.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Reductive C−Ge Coupling of Aryl/Alkenyl Electrophiles with Chlorogermanes
Authors: Su Pei‐Feng , Wang Ke , Peng Xuejing , Pang Xiaobo , Guo Peng , Shu Xing‐Zhong
Published: October 2021

Cross‐electrophile coupling has emerged as a promising tool for molecular synthesis; however, current studies have focused mainly on forging C−C bonds. We report a cross‐electrophile C−Ge coupling reaction and thereby demonstrate the possibility of constructing organogermanes from carbon electrophiles and chlorogermanes. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions and offers access to both aryl and alkenyl germanes. Electron‐rich, electron‐poor, and ortho‐/meta‐/para‐substituted (hetero)aryl electrophiles, as well as cyclic and acyclic alkenyl electrophiles, were coupled. Gram‐scale reaction, incorporation of the ‐GeR3 moiety into complex biologically active molecules, and derivatization of formed organogermanes are demonstrated.
Composites ofABSwithSEBS‐g‐MAand copper microparticles modified by mussel‐bioinspired polydopamine: A comparative rheological study
Authors: Sakahara Rogério Massanori , da Silva Daniel José , Wang Shu Hui
Published: October 2021

Characterizing and understanding composite polymeric systems' rheological behavior is essential to tune their melt flow in polymer processing machinery. Also, rheological tests are suitable tools to evaluate the microstructure and interface adhesion of polymeric composites, which are relevant parameters on the composite performance in their applications. Poly(acrylonitrile‐co‐butadiene‐co‐styrene) (ABS) and its composites are essential materials used to manufacture consumer goods necessary to maintain the quality of life of human beings. In this work, we report on polymer systems based on ABS and poly(styrene‐block‐ethylene‐co‐butylene‐block‐styrene)‐graft‐maleic anhydride (SEBS‐g‐MA) as polymer matrix containing dispersed copper microparticles (ABS:SEBS‐g‐MA:Cu). Polydopamine, a bioinspired polymer, was applied as a filler‐matrix interface compatibilizer of the composites. The linear viscoelastic rheological measurements evidence a shear‐thinning behavior for the composites, and the polydopamine coating affects the polymer phase's relaxation time. The cohesive energy density (Ec) and SEM micrographs indicate good adhesion between copper and ABS:SEBS‐g‐MA due to polydopamine interfacial adherence.
Plant‐derived human recombinant growth factors and serum albumin maintain stemness of human‐induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Lee Yukyeong , Lee Hye Jeong , Ham Seokbeom , Jeong Dahee , Lee Minseong , Lee Uiil , Lee Myungseok , Kwon Tae‐Ho , Ko Kinarm
Published: October 2021

Stem cells are an important therapeutic source for recovery and regeneration, as their ability of self‐renewal and differentiation offers an unlimited supply of highly specialized cells for therapeutic transplantation. Growth factors and serum are essential for maintaining the characteristics of stem cells in culture and for inducing differentiation. Because growth factors are produced mainly in bacterial (Escherichia coli) or animal cells, the use of such growth factors raises safety concerns that need to be resolved for the commercialization of stem cell therapeutics. To overcome this problem, studies on proteins produced in plants have been conducted. Here, we describe the functions of plant‐derived fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and human serum albumin in the maintenance and differentiation of human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Plant‐derived FGF2 and human epidermal growth factor EGF were able to differentiate hiPSCs into neural stem cells (NSCs). These NSCs could differentiate into neuronal and glial cells. Our results imply that culturing stem cells in animal‐free culture medium, which is composed of plant‐derived proteins, would facilitate stem cell application research, for example, for cell therapy, by reducing contamination risk.
E‐cigarette or vaping product use‐associated lung injury: A great COVID‐19 mimicker in young adult
Authors: Hoshina Yoji
Published: October 2021

EVALI and COVID‐19 share similar clinical and imaging features. Assessing the vaping or e‐cigarette use history and conducting urine toxicology tests for high‐risk patients are important with increasing COVID‐19 cases in young adults.
Ligand‐Controlled Regiodivergence for Catalytic Stereoselective Semireduction of Allenamides
Authors: Hajiloo Shayegan Mojtaba , Li Zhong‐Yuan , Cui Xin
Published: October 2021

Ligand‐controlled regiodivergence has been developed for catalytic semireduction of allenamides with excellent chemo‐ and stereocontrol. This system also provides an example of catalytic regiodivergent semireduction of allenes for the first time. The divergence of the semireduction is enabled by ligand switch with the same palladium pre‐catalyst under operationally simple and mild conditions. Monodentate ligand XPhos exclusively promotes selective 1,2‐semireduction to afford allylic amides, while bidentate ligand BINAP completely switched the regioselectivity to 2,3‐semireduction, producing (E)‐enamide derivatives.
Evaluation von Sicherheitslebenszyklusmodellen in der modularen Automation
Authors: Pelzer Florian , Pannasch Sebastian , Urbas Leon
Published: October 2021

Die dynamische Verschaltung modularer Anlagen steht im Widerspruch zu statischen Paradigmen der funktionalen Sicherheit aus dem konventionellen Anlagenbau. Eine Adaption der bestehenden Sicherheitslebenszyklusmodelle an die dynamischen Eigenschaften der modularen Prozessautomation ist daher notwendig. Der vorliegende Artikel beschreibt die systematische Entwicklung und Evaluation von Sicherheitslebenszyklen im Rahmen von Fokusgruppen‐Workshops für Process Equipment Assemblies sowie modulare Anlagen.
Colour, emotion, and behavioral intentions in city hotel guestrooms
Authors: Yar Bilal Selin , Aslanoğlu Rengin , Olguntürk Nilgün
Published: October 2021

This study explores the effects of colours on people's emotional states and behavioral intentions in a real‐world city hotel guestroom. For this study, blue, yellow, and gray were selected. According to literature, when it is desired to make a change on colour scheme in hotel rooms, the alteration should be applied to secondary colour while keeping the dominant colour constant. Thus, in this study, the alterations of colour scheme are only applied to bedspread and pillows fabrics. As results indicate, blue and yellow are associated with pleasure and arousal, whereas the gray colour evokes displeasure and no arousal. Yellow and blue are found to cause approach behavior in terms of customer loyalty, while the colour gray is found to cause avoidance behavior in city hotel guestrooms. There is a positive relationship between both pleasure and approach behavior and between arousal and approach behavior. The results can be useful for interior architects, designers, and hoteliers who emphasize touching guests' emotions and increasing approach behavior by creating favorable colour schemes. This study combines colour, emotion, and behavioral intentions in hospitality context which plays an essential role in filling gap in the literature about the effects of colour in a hospitality context.
Heat waves affect an invasive herbivore and its parasitoid differentially with impacts beyond the first generation
Authors: Simaz Olivia , Szűcs Marianna
Published: October 2021

Heat waves are becoming more frequent with climate change, and their impact on lower and higher trophic levels can differ. Higher trophic levels, such as predators and parasitoids, are predicted to be more strongly affected by heat waves than herbivores because they may have smaller thermal windows and because of altered ecological interactions with lower trophic levels. We tested the effects of heat waves of varying intensity (36–42°C), imposed for 4 h during five consecutive days on the egg stage of an invasive herbivore, the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys), and on various developmental stages of its parasitoid,Trissolcus japonicus.Halyomorpha halyseggs had lower hatching success and fewer nymphs emerging with increasing intensity of heat stress, while exposure during the egg and larval stages ofT. japonicusdid not decrease adult emergence rates. Heat waves increased developmental time of parasitoids and decreased adult emergence when pupal stages were exposed. Adult parasitoids experiencing heat stress had lower survival, but their parasitism success overall was not affected. In addition, we detected transgenerational effects, whereas emergence success and the number of adult parasitoids emerging in the second generation declined when the parental generation was exposed to 42°C. Contrary to expectations, the results suggest thatH. halysmay be more sensitive to heat stress thanT. japonicus, at least during early development. Our findings indicate that biological control services provided byT. japonicuscan be maintained in the face of increasing heat wave events and point to the importance of following populations beyond the first generation to better understand the long‐term consequences of heat stress.
Improvement of thermal‐type MEMS flow sensor chip via new process of silicon etching with sacrificial polycrystalline silicon layer
Authors: Kasai Takashi , Momotani Koji , Nakano Yu , Nakao Hideyuki
Published: October 2021

This paper reports upon a new process for the flow sensor fabrication of a thermal microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and its performance improvement. A unique feature of the proposed process is the silicon etching, which is a combination of normal crystal‐oriented silicon etching and isotropic etching of polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si). The poly‐Si layer works as a sacrificial layer and promotes etching of the silicon substrate in the horizonal direction, thereby enabling location of the etching holes in the membrane of the flow sensor without the conventional etching rules. Some designs for the flow sensors, which have been infeasible with normal processes, were thus fabricated and evaluated. Hence, the new process improves the design flexibility of the membrane and enhances flow sensor performance, such as 38.3% reduction in power consumption.
The IFN‐inducible GTPase IRGB10 regulates viral replication and inflammasome activation during influenza A virus infection in mice
Authors: Christgen Shelbi , Place David E. , Zheng Min , Briard Benoit , Yamamoto Masahiro , Kanneganti Thirumala‐Devi
Published: October 2021

The upregulation of interferon (IFN)‐inducible GTPases in response to pathogenic insults is vital to host defense against many bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens. Several IFN‐inducible GTPases play key roles in mediating inflammasome activation and providing host protection after bacterial or fungal infections, though their role in inflammasome activation after viral infection is less clear. Among the IFN‐inducible GTPases, the expression of immunity‐related GTPases (IRGs) varies widely across species for unknown reasons. Here, we report that IRGB10, but not IRGM1, IRGM2, or IRGM3, is required for NLRP3 inflammasome activation in response to influenza A virus (IAV) infection in mice. While IRGB10 functions to release inflammasome ligands in the context of bacterial and fungal infections, we found that IRGB10 facilitates endosomal maturation and nuclear translocation of IAV, thereby regulating viral replication. Corresponding with our in vitro results, we found that Irgb10–/– mice were more resistant to IAV‐induced mortality than WT mice. The results of our study demonstrate a detrimental role of IRGB10 in host immunity in response to IAV and a novel function of IRGB10, but not IRGMs, in promoting viral translocation into the nucleus.
Longitudinal SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence in Portugal and antibody maintenance 12 months after infection
Authors: Canto e Castro Luísa , Gomes Andreia , Serrano Marta , Pereira Ana Helena Guia , Ribeiro Rita , Napoleão Patrícia , Domingues Inês , Silva Cláudia , Fanczal Júlia , Afonso Ângela , Lopes Andreia , Toader Ionela , de Sousa Maria José Rego , de Sousa José Germano Rego , de Sousa Germano , Mota Maria M. , Silva‐Santos Bruno , Veldhoen Marc , Ribeiro Ruy M.
Published: October 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, Portugal has experienced three distinct SARS‐CoV‐2 infection waves. We previously documented the prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 immunity, measured by specific antibodies, in September 2020, 6 months after the initial moderate wave. Here, we show the seroprevalence changes 6 months later, up to the second week of March 2021, shortly following the third wave, which was one of the most severe in the world, and 2 months following the start of the vaccination campaign. A longitudinal epidemiological study was conducted, with a stratified quota sample of the Portuguese population. Serological testing was performed, including ELISA determination of antibody class and titers. The proportion of seropositives, which was 2.2% in September 2020, rose sharply to 17.3% (95% CI: 15.8–18.8%) in March 2021. Importantly, circulating IgG and IgA antibody levels were very stable 6 months after the initial determination and up to a year after initial infection, indicating long‐lasting infection immunity against SARS‐CoV‐2. Moreover, vaccinated people had higher IgG levels from 3 weeks post‐vaccination when compared with previously infected people at the same time post‐infection.
Solid‐state Electrochemical Sensor Based on a Cross‐linked Copper(II)‐doped Copolymer and Carbon Nanotube Material for Selective and Sensitive Detection of Monohydrogen Phosphate
Authors: Topcu Cihan , Coldur Fatih , Caglar Bulent , Ozdokur K. Volkan , Cubuk Osman
Published: October 2021

A novel solid‐state electrochemical sensor based on a newly synthesized cross‐linked copper(II) doped‐copolymer and carbon nanotube material was developed for the direct determination of monohydrogen phosphate ions (HPO42−). The synthesized copolymers were characterized by FTIR, XPS, TG/DTG‐DTA and SEM techniques. The sensor had a Nernstian slope:‐30.7±0.4 mV/decade, linear concentrations range: 1.0×10−6‐ 1.0×10−1 M, detection limit: 6.5×10−7 M, response time: 4 s and life time: 17 weeks. The sensor displayed constant potentials in the pH range 7.0‐9.5. The sensor was successfully used as an indicator electrode in potentiometric titration and the direct determination of HPO42−in water samples.
Electrochemical generation of nitric oxide for medical applications
Authors: White Corey J. , Lehnert Nicolai , Meyerhoff Mark E.
Published: October 2021

Over the past 30 years, the significance of nitric oxide (NO) has become increasingly apparent in mammalian physiology. It is biosynthesized by three isoforms of nitric oxide synthases (NOS): neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS), and inducible (iNOS). nNOS and eNOS both produce low levels of NO (nM) as a signaling agent and vasodilator, respectively. iNOS is present in activated macrophages at sites of infection to generate acutely toxic (μM) levels of NO as part of the mammalian immune defense mechanism. These discoveries have led to numerous animal and clinical studies to evaluate the potential therapeutic utility of NO in various medical operations/treatments, primarily using NO gas (via gas‐cylinders) as the NO source. In this review, we focus specifically on recent advances in the electrochemical generation of NO (E‐NOgen) as an alternative means to generate NO from cheap and inert sources, and the fabrication and testing of biomedical devices that utilize E‐NOgen to controllably generate NO for medical applications.
Field trial with tactical bubbles for mission critical communications
Authors: Heikkilä Marjo , Koskela Pekka , Suomalainen Jani , Lähetkangas Kalle , Kippola Tero , Eteläaho Pentti , Erkkilä Juha , Pouttu Ari
Published: October 2021

Main research and development interest of 5G and beyond systems are focusing on solution for populated and hot spot areas, but public safety authorities need reliable communication solutions in rural and remote areas. Tactical bubbles—ad hoc‐type nonpublic communications networks built with the 3rd Generation Partnership Project‐based mobile technologies—offer mission critical communications services for public safety authorities in areas with bad mobile network coverage while also providing additional capacity in hot spot areas. In this experimental study, three interconnected bubbles acting on three different frequency bands—2.3 GHz (40), 2.6 GHz (7), and 3.5 GHz (n78)—are trialed. This article provides the analysis of different factors related to performance and user experience of tactical bubbles. Both ground‐level and aerial trial measurements, as well as simulations, were utilized to verify our configuration for the tactical bubbles and their fulfillment of the quality requirements. The performance and coverage of the tactical bubbles are evaluated in a trial, which represents authorities' search operations in a rural environment with hills, forests, and swamps. The achieved coverage range of the bubbles is more than 1000 m with the unmanned aerial system‐based measurements, whereas by car, the coverage is less than 600 m. The effect of obstacles (ie, buildings and hills) on the coverage area and performance of bubbles is significant, especially on car‐based measurements on the ground level.
Establishment and characterization of two human cutaneous angiosarcoma cell lines, KU‐CAS3 and KU‐CAS5
Authors: You Hi‐Jin , Kim Hyung‐Kyu , Kim Min‐Sook , Lee Yun‐Hwan , Chung Jae‐Ho , Hwang Na‐Hyun , Kim Deok‐Woo , Choi Jung‐Woo , Lee Ju‐Han
Published: October 2021

Background

Cutaneous angiosarcoma (CAS) is a rare but fatal cancer. Established CAS cell lines are necessary for the investigation of their properties and treatment options.

Methods

Two cell lines, KU‐CAS3 and KU‐CAS5, were established from human angiosarcoma specimens obtained from the scalp. Flow cytometric assay, tube formation assay, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake assay, immunofluorescence analysis, real‐time PCR, tumorigenesis assay, and STR analysis were conducted.

Results

The cells showed endothelial cell properties, based on the cobblestone appearance upon reaching confluence, CD31 positivity, tube‐formation activity, active uptake of acetylated LDL, and vWF expression. The two cell lines expressed relatively high levels of adrenergic β2 receptor, and the VEGF1 and VEGF2 receptors. In the in vivo study, the growing neoplasms, confirmed as CAS, were identified as subcutaneous dark papules. KU‐CAS cell lines were considered authentic based on STR profiling.

Conclusions

KU‐CAS3 and KU‐CAS5 are the first human CAS cell lines having tumorigenic potential in vivo.
Brentuximab vedotin consolidation after autologous stem cell transplantation for Hodgkin lymphoma: A Fondazione Italiana Linfomi real‐life experience
Authors: Massaro Fulvio , Pavone Vincenzo , Stefani Piero Maria , Botto Barbara , Pulsoni Alessandro , Patti Caterina , Cantonetti Maria , Visentin Andrea , Scalzulli Potito Rosario , Rossi Andrea , Galimberti Sara , Cimminiello Michele , Gini Guido , Musso Maurizio , Sorio Marco , Arcari Annalisa , Zilioli Vittorio Ruggero , Luppi Mario , Mannina Donato , Fabbri Alberto , Pietrantuono Giuseppe , Annibali Ombretta , Tafuri Agostino , Prete Eleonora , Mulè Antonino , Barbolini Elisa , Marcheselli Luigi , Luminari Stefano , Merli Francesco
Published: October 2021

The standard management for relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is salvage therapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). This strategy allows almost 50% of patients to be cured. Post‐ASCT maintenance treatment with brentuximab vedotin (BV) confers improved progression‐free survival (PFS) to cHL patients at high risk of relapse. We investigated the outcome of 105 cHL patients receiving post‐ASCT BV maintenance in the real‐life setting of 23 Italian hematology centers. This population included naïve patients and those previously exposed to BV. Median follow‐up was 20 months. Patients presented a median of two lines of treatment pre‐ASCT, with 51% receiving BV. Twenty‐nine percent of patients had at least two high‐risk factors (refractory disease, complete response [CR] less than 12 months, extranodal disease at relapse), while 16% presented none. At PET‐CT, a Deauville score (DS) of 1–3 was reported in 75% and 78% of pre‐ and post‐ASCT evaluations, respectively. Grade 3–4 adverse events (AEs), mainly peripheral neuropathy, were observed in 16% of patients. Three‐year PFS and overall survival (OS) were 62% and 86%, respectively. According to BV exposure, 3‐year PFS and OS were 54% and 71%, respectively, for naïve and 77% and 96%, respectively, for previously exposed patients. Refractory disease (hazard ratio [HR] 4.46; p = 0.003) and post‐ASCT DS 4–5 (HR 3.14; p = 0.005) were the only two factors significantly associated with PFS reduction in multivariable analysis. Post‐ASCT BV maintenance is an effective, safe treatment option for cHL naïve patients and those previously exposed to BV.
Future land cover and climate may drive decreases in snow wind‐scour and transpiration, increasing streamflow at a Colorado, USA headwater catchment
Authors: Barnhart Theodore B. , Vukomanovic Jelena , Bourgeron Patrick , Molotch Noah P.
Published: October 2021

Understanding how land cover change will impact water resources in snow‐dominated regions is of critical importance as these locations produce disproportionate runoff relative to their land area. We coupled a land cover evolution model with a spatially explicit, physics‐based, watershed process model to simulate land cover change and its impact on the water balance in a 5.0 km2 headwater catchment spanning the alpine–subalpine transition on the Colorado Front Range. We simulated two potential futures both with greater air temperature (+4°C/century) and more precipitation (+15%/century, MP) or less precipitation (−15%/century, LP) from 2000 to 2100. Forest cover in the catchment increased from 72% in 2000 to 84% and 83% in 2050 and to 95% and 92% in 2100 for MP and LP, respectively. Surprisingly, increases in forest cover led to mean increases in annual streamflow production of 12 mm (6%) and 2 mm (1%) for MP and LP in 2050 with an annual control streamflow of 208 mm. In 2100, mean streamflow production increased by 91 mm (44%) and 61 mm (29%) for MP and LP. This result counters previous work as runoff production increased with forested area due to decreases in snow wind‐scour and increases in drifting leeward of vegetation, highlighting the need to better understand the impacts of forest expansion on the spatial pattern of snow scour, deposition and catchment effective precipitation. Identifying the hydrologic response of mountainous areas to climate warming induced land cover change is critically important due to the potential water resources impacts on downstream regions.
Effects of prolonged use of over‐the‐counter bleaching agents on enamel: An in vitro study
Authors: Manso Adriana P , De Morais Dayana C. , Yamamoto Kayoko , Owen Gethin , de Carvalho Ricardo Marins , Palma‐Dibb Regina G.
Published: October 2021

This study evaluated the effects of four over‐the‐counter (OTC) bleaching products on the properties of enamel. Extracted human molars were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 5): PD: Poladay (SDI), WG: White Teeth Global (White Teeth Global), CW: Crest3DWhite (Procter & Gamble), and HS: HiSmile (HiSmile). The hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content in each product was analyzed via titration. Twenty teeth were sectioned into quarters, embedded in epoxy resin, and polished. Each quarter‐tooth surface was treated with one of the four beaching times: T0: control/no‐bleaching, T14: 14 days, T28: 28 days, and T56: 56 days. Materials were applied to enamel surfaces as recommended. Enamel surfaces were examined for ultramicrohardness (UMH), elastic modulus (EM), superficial roughness (Sa), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Ten additional teeth were used to evaluate color and degree of demineralization (DD) (n = 5). Data were statistically tested by two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (α = 5%). Enamel surfaces treated with PD and WG presented UMH values significantly lower than the controls (p < .05). Elastic modulus (E) was significantly reduced at T14 and T28 for PD, and at T14 for HS (p < .05). A significant increase in Sa was observed for CW at T14 (p < .05). Color changes were observed in the PD and WG groups. Additionally, DD analysis showed significant demineralization at T56 for CW. Overall, more evident morphological alterations were observed for bleaching products with higher concentrations of H2O2 (p < .05), PD, and WG. Over‐the‐counter bleaching products containing H2O2 can significantly alter enamel properties, especially when application time is extended.
Exploring reality television and social media as mediating factors between destination identity and destination image
Authors: Skinner Heather , Williams‐Burnett Nicola , Fallon Julia
Published: October 2021

Continuing trends towards location‐based reality television programmes and growth in social media usage have contributed to boundaries between various destination image formation sources becoming increasingly blurred. Through analysing comments made on online news reports and social media posts about a reality television programme set in the popular resort of Kavos on the Greek Island of Corfu, the study explores various elements of these programmes to offer original insights into destination image formation in this new media environment, thus furthering understanding that has previously been lacking in the literature about relationships between destination identity, online and social media, and destination images.
Changes in litter traits induced by vegetation restoration accelerate litter decomposition in Robinia pseudoacacia plantations
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxi , Wang Lijie , Zhou Wenxing , Hu Wei , Hu Jiawei , Hu Man
Published: October 2021

The chemical traits of litter are among the most critical factors that affect its decomposition. During vegetation restoration of planted forests, increasing age of the planted species and succession of the understory species may lead to significant changes in litter traits. However, it is unclear how these changes occur and how they affect litter decomposition. Therefore, we studied the decomposition of litter from four Robinia pseudoacacia plantations in the Loess Plateau in China with stand ages of 10–43 years using an indoor simulation test. We measured changes in litter substrate quality and chemical diversity, structural properties of the litter microbial community, activity of litter enzymes, and mixed decomposition effects during vegetation restoration. Their relationships to changes in litter decomposition rate were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Improvements in substrate quality of forest litter induced by vegetation restoration drove changes in fungal community composition during late decomposition (day 358), which in turn increased the activity of lignin‐decomposing enzymes and ultimately accelerated litter decomposition. At the same time, decreases in the chemical diversity of forest litter induced by vegetation restoration reduced the diversity of litter fungi during middle and late decomposition (days 182 and 358). This caused significant negative mixed decomposition effects, thereby inhibiting litter decomposition. However, improvements in litter substrate quality dominated the changes in litter decomposition rate, and the decomposition rate of R. pseudoacacia plantation litter thus increased over the course of vegetation restoration.
Ecology and Life History of Snook Species in Texas
Authors: Getz Ethan T. , Garcia Andres , Eckert Catherine M.
Published: October 2021

In recent years, the abundance and distribution of snook species (Centropomus spp.) have increased and expanded in Texas. As mobile predators, snook have the potential to alter marine communities as they expand; however, little is known about the functional impact of snook in Texas. Here, a long-term (1982–2019) fishery-independent data set was utilized to describe snook life history characteristics. Bag-seine and gill-net data were used to determine distribution, size, spawning, and recruitment seasonality for Common Snook C. undecimalis and Fat Snook C. parallelus in Texas. Snook collected from the lower Laguna Madre were used to describe diet, length–weight relationships, and sex ratios. Results indicated that both Common and Fat snook abundance and range increased in Texas with expansion primarily led by Common Snook. Common Snook were larger than Fat Snook based on the length frequency analysis, but the latter were heavier at a given length. Spawning season for both species occurred during summer and peaked in July and August for Fat and Common snook, respectively. Evidence for protandric hermaphroditism was observed in Common Snook with females being significantly larger than males and a 50:50 male-to-female ratio occurring at 670 mm total length (TL). Diet analyses indicated that Common and Fat snook are generalist predators feeding on a variety of prey species. An ontogenetic shift in diet was observed in Common Snook as individuals <500 mm TL fed primarily on shrimp, and those ≥500 mm TL fed primarily on fish. Fat Snook and subadult Common Snook possessed a high degree of dietary overlap, with shrimp being the most common prey item identified for each. These findings provide managers with the foundational aspects of snook life history at a time when the potential effects of the snook range expansion in Texas remain largely undescribed.
Statins and the risk of polyneuropathy: A systematic review and two meta‐analyses
Authors: Wannarong Thapat , Chaikijurajai Thanat , Preston David C. , Naweera Weerakit , Sukpornchairak Persen , Ungprasert Patompong
Published: October 2021

Introduction/Aims

Previous studies have shown inconsistent data on the relationship between statin use and polyneuropathy (PN). The current systematic review and meta‐analyses were conducted to comprehensively investigate the risk of incident PN among statin‐users compared with non‐users by identifying all available studies and summarizing their results.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted from MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from inception to October 31, 2020. We included cohort and case–control studies that compared the risk of incident PN between statin‐users and non‐users. Point estimates and standard errors from eligible studies were pooled together using the generic inverse variance method.

Results

Of 4968 retrieved articles, 6 studies in non‐diabetic populations and 2 studies in diabetic populations fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Two meta‐analyses were performed. The pooled analyses did not find a statistically significant association between the use of statins and risk of incident PN with the pooled odds ratio of 1.24 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.88–1.76; I274%) and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.56–1.21; I280%) in non‐diabetic and diabetic groups respectively.

Discussion

No significant association between the use of statins and the risk of PN was observed in this systematic review and these two meta‐analyses. However, there was a high degree of heterogeneity of the meta‐analyses.
Three‐dimensional structured MXene/SiO2 for improving the interfacial properties of composites by self‐assembly strategy
Authors: Guo Jiaming , Qiu Tingtian , Yu Chengxingzi , Liu Yu , Ning Chen , Kong Lingqiang , Ma Yan , Liu Liu , Ao Yuhui
Published: October 2021

An unprecedented electrostatic self‐assembly of MXene and SiO2 on carbon fiber (CF) to enhance the interfacial properties of CF‐reinforced epoxy resin composites is disclosed. MXene with negative charge was anchored on the cationized CF surface via a strong electrostatic interaction, followed by synergistic effect of amine‐modified SiO2 (positive charge) to furnish a stable MXene/SiO2 material with three‐dimensional structure, which takes the advantages of high modulus, large specific surface area, and high‐surface activity. The involvement of the two nano‐materials with different dimensions and morphologies results in synergistic enhancement on mechanical interlocking, leading to excellent chemical bonding connection between CF and resin, which could transfer stress and dissipate energy effectively. Moreover, the surface energy of CF increased from 26.67 to 48.12 mJ/m2 after assembly of MXene/SiO2. Compared with unsized CF/EP composites, the interfacial shear strength, interlaminar shear strength, and flexural strength of CF/MXene/SiO2/epoxy (EP) composites were increased by 73.2%, 61.2%, and 39.2%, respectively. Dynamic mechanical analysis poxy (DMA) tests showed that the storage modulus of the CF/MXene/SiO2/EP composites was enhanced by 64% compared with CF/EP composites, and the glass‐transition temperature of composites was elevated from 147.9 to 151.8°C. This protocol provides a promising strategy for designing advanced CF/EP composites with three‐dimensional structure.
Fabrication, swelling behavior, and water absorption kinetics of genipin‐crosslinked gelatin–chitosan hydrogels
Authors: Moshayedi Shadi , Sarpoolaky Hossein , Khavandi Alireza
Published: October 2021

Gelatin/chitosan hydrogels have attracted considerable attention over the last 2 decades in various fields of applications. In this paper, chemically crosslinked composite hydrogels with different gelatin‐to‐chitosan weight ratios were fabricated and crosslinked with different amounts of genipin via the solvent casting technique combined with freeze‐drying. Fourier‐transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), liquid displacement method, and gravimetric analysis were used to examine the chemical, microstructural, and physical properties of the hydrogels. IR spectra confirmed the formation of covalent bonds between the amino groups of the parent's macromolecules and genipin. SEM micrographs indicated that the hydrogels possessed a highly porous structure with well‐defined pore geometries. The swelling capacity and degradation rate of the specimens reduced with increasing the amounts of chitosan and/or genipin. In‐depth swelling measurements revealed that the first‐order kinetic model was only applicable in the early stage of the swelling study; however, the water absorption behavior of the hydrogels was best described by the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model (Schott's model) throughout the swelling experiment. The genipin‐crosslinked hydrogels were found to support MC3T3‐E1 cell proliferation. The results of this paper thus suggest the 1.5% genipin‐crosslinked gelatin/chitosan hydrogels as promising candidates for on‐demand drug delivery applications or more precisely osteoarthritis drug delivery systems.
Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 in human papillomavirus‐related cancers
Authors: Cruz‐Gregorio Alfredo , Aranda‐Rivera Ana Karina , Pedraza‐Chaverri José
Published: October 2021

High‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) infection is a necessary cause for the development of cervical cancer. Moreover, HR‐HPV is also associated with cancers in the anus, vagina, vulva, penis and oropharynx. HR‐HPVs target and modify the function of different cell biomolecules, such as glucose, amino acids, lipids and transcription factors (TF), such as p53, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), among others. The latter is a master TF that maintains redox homeostasis. Nrf2 also induces the transcription of genes associated with cell detoxification. Since both processes are critical for cell physiology, Nrf2 deregulation is associated with cancer development. Nrf2 is a crucial molecule in HPV‐related cancer development but underexplored. Moreover, Nrf2 activation is also associated with resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in these cancers. This review focusses on the importance of Nrf2 during HPV‐related cancer development, resistance to therapy and potential therapies associated with Nrf2 as a molecular target.
Learning‐basedT‐sHDP() for optimal control of a class of nonlinear discrete‐time systems
Authors: Yu Luyang , Liu Weibo , Liu Yurong , Alsaadi Fawaz E.
Published: October 2021

This article investigates the optimal control problem via reinforcement learning for a class of nonlinear discrete‐time systems. The nonlinear system under consideration is assumed to be partially unknown. A new learning‐based algorithm,T‐step heuristic dynamic programming with eligibility traces (T‐sHDP()), is proposed to tackle the optimal control problem for such partially unknown system. First, the concerned optimal control problem is turned into its equivalence problem, that is, solving a Bellman equation. Then, theT‐sHDP() is utilized to get an approximate solution of Bellman equation, and a rigorous convergence analysis is also conducted as well. Instead of the commonly used single step update approach, theT‐sHDP() stores finite step past returns by introducing a parameter, and then utilizes these knowledge to update the value function (VF) of multiple moments synchronously, so as to achieve higher convergence speed. For implementation ofT‐sHDP(), a neural network‐based actor‐critic architecture is applied to approximate VF and optimal control scheme. Finally, the feasibility of the algorithm is demonstrated by two illustrative simulation examples.
A case study of science teachers' goal conflicts arising when integrating engineering into science classes
Authors: Hutner Todd L. , Sampson Victor , Chu Lawrence , Baze Christina L. , Crawford Richard H.
Published: October 2021

The Framework for K‐12 Science Education details new goals to guide improvement of US science education. Among the new goals, the inclusion of engineering core ideas and practices stand out. We report a case study of four 8th‐grade science teachers who chose to integrate engineering core ideas and practices into their science classes by teaching four STEM design challenges (SDC). This study focuses on understanding the goal conflicts arising from these teachers' choice and how they resolve their goal conflicts. Primary data come from semistructured interviews conducted with each teacher. The goal conflicts expressed by our teachers fell into one of two broad categories: pacing conflicts and mandated testing conflicts. Pacing conflicts exist between the goals of teaching the SDCs in full and the goals of following the district‐wide pacing guide and covering all state mandated standards. Mandated testing conflicts were those goal conflicts arising between teaching the SDCs and ensuring that students were successful on officially mandated tests from the state and the district. The science teachers resolved their conflicts through goal balancing, where actions taken to satisfy one goal (teaching the SDCs) allow a person to subsequently pursue actions toward satisfying a conflicting goal. In this study, goal balancing is exhibited by teachers partially completing each SDC before moving on to the next topic. Finally, we discuss these findings in relationship to the existing literature on science teachers' goals and provide implications for science teachers' professional development and for research.
Machine learning enables national assessment of wind plant controls with implications for land use
Authors: Harrison‐Atlas Dylan , King Ryan N. , Glaws Andrew
Published: October 2021

As deployment of wind energy continues to expand, computationally efficient tools for predicting wind plant performance over a wide range of layout designs, technology innovations, and spatial locations are increasingly important for policy and investment decisions. We demonstrate two approaches to training a surrogate model to predict annual energy production (AEP) of parameterized wind plant layouts: one using a Gaussian process (GP) and the other using a fully convolutional neural network (FCNN). We leverage the powerful FCNN architecture by encoding wind plant design parameters and output response surface as an image. The FCNN produces more accurate results than the GP with mean absolute errors equivalent to 1% and 1.9% of plant rated power, respectively, although the GP performs well under limited training data and provides useful uncertainty information. We also evaluate a surrogate model for wake steering, enabling a nationwide assessment of the impact of plant control strategies and plant layout decisions. Across two million locations, we find that wake steering strategies boost AEP with relative gains upwards of 3%. Gains are most pronounced at sites without a dominant wind direction and where layout optimization is less fruitful. Additionally, we perform a nationwide sensitivity analysis showing that wake steering can mitigate wake losses from higher density plant layouts. Our results suggest that regions which have not been previously viable for wind deployment due to moderate wind resources are especially well enhanced by wake steering strategies that could help overcome land constraints and inflexible layout options, potentially identifying new deployment opportunities.
Evidencing Culture for Policy
Authors: Oman Susan
Published: October 2021

This chapter looks under the bonnet of research, interrogating data and evidence used in social and cultural policy. It looks at data in the culture-well-being relationship in three ways. First, if well-being data can indicate whether policy spend on culture is good for society. Second, a review of two projects that evaluate ‘cultural occupations’ and ‘artistic practice’ in the UK and the US. Despite ostensibly similar approaches with well-being data, different understandings of these categories affect findings. Third, Italian research found ‘cultural access’ was vital to well-being, but its operationalisations are curious in ways that affect the conclusions and recommendations. Understanding well-being data—and the contexts of their use—is critical in appreciating evidence, its limits and uses in social and cultural policy.
Importance of Building Energy Efficiency Towards National and Regional Energy Targets
Authors: Aktaş Can B.
Published: October 2021

The buildings sector in the EU consumes 40% of energy and is responsible for 36% of CO2 emissions. With growing public interest on the subject, there have been several EU policies developed to curb impacts. Statistical analysis conducted in the case study indicates an increase in both total and buildings’ energy consumption trends leading up to 2030, with total energy consumption having an expected value of 40% increase and building energy consumption having an expected value of 33% increase. Analysis results indicate that building energy consumption could be maintained at current levels if a proactive approach is embraced. Focusing solely on buildings’ energy consumption does not solve national or regional energy problems, but neglecting them altogether prevents significant gains to be made. Building energy efficiency is not the solution by itself to achieve energy goals in EU, but is an important contributor toward the solution.
Setting Internal Price of Environmental Criteria, the Good Way to Transform Organization?
Authors: Morel Stéphane , Iken Nabila , Aggeri Franck
Published: October 2021

In this communication, we present some lessons learned on the construction of an internal carbon price by businesses, based on the four-dimensional framework of the Carbon Disclosure Project. We illustrate the scheme with the example of a car manufacturer. Based on grey literature and the conclusions of exchanges with various companies, we discuss the different dimensions of the CDP framework within the scope of the automotive sector. We also analyse the various risk and success factors associated with the carbon pricing tool at organizational, tooling, business and cultural levels within a car manufacturer. We conclude that the carbon pricing tool requires many design choices and a reflection on the company’s objective regarding climate change mitigation.
Enhancing Life Cycle Management Through the Symbiotic Use of Data Envelopment Analysis: Novel Advances in LCA + DEA
Authors: Álvarez-Rodríguez Cristina , Martín-Gamboa Mario , Iribarren Diego
Published: October 2021

The combined use of Life Cycle Assessment and Data Envelopment Analysis (LCA + DEA) arises as a growing field of research when evaluating multiple similar entities under the umbrella of eco-efficiency and sustainability. This chapter revisits a set of four recent LCA + DEA articles within the tertiary sector to explore the novel advances offered regarding the application of the well-established five-step LCA + DEA method for enhanced sustainability benchmarking. These advances – which relate to the DEA stage of the framework – include the calculation of gradual benchmarks for continuous improvement, the period-oriented benchmarking of unidivisional or multidivisional entities, and the implementation of decision-makers’ preferences in the assessment. Overall, these advances further stress the suitability of using DEA to enhance the capabilities of LCA for the sustainability-oriented management of multiple similar entities.
Carbon Footprint as a First Step Towards LCA Usage
Authors: Motta Wladmir H.
Published: October 2021

In order to reduce the current intensive and inefficient use of resources and especially the negative impacts on the environment, some initiatives have emerged in different areas. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has been one of the most accepted and used methodology. Despite this fact, there are countries where LCA is not yet fully implemented. On the other hand, there is another approach, the carbon footprint (CF), that can follow the same life cycle approach patterns considering the phases and steps of a LCA. In this sense, this study proposes CF use as an introductory methodology of the life cycle thinking in companies at countries where LCA is still not effectively in use. The proposal is conducted through a bibliographic study and a field research. The findings point to acceptance of the proposal, considering that with the use of CF, the companies will come to know and use the principles of life cycle thinking, thus facilitating the understanding and the implementation of LCA.