bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, Attitude and Practise about Beneficial and Harmful effects of Diet Soda
Authors: Fathima Faaizah , Devi R. Gayatri , Priya A. Jothi
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim: Soda or light drinks are sugar free and don't contain calories. Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame drastically affect our health by causing various diseases like stroke etc. The main aim of this study is to determine the level of knowledge possessed about diet soda and their attitude towards it.

Materials and Methods: A Cross sectional survey was conducted among dental populations with a sample size of 102. A self administered, structured questionnaire was prepared based on knowledge, attitude and practice about diet soda and consisted of 10 questions. It was circulated to the participants through Google forms. The statistics were done using SPSS software, a chi-square test was used to check the association and the ‘p’ value of 0.05 was said to be statistically significant.

Results: From this survey it was inferred that 81.37% people find diet soda unhealthy whereas 18.63% felt it isn't healthy. 56.86% felt it contained calories but 43.14% felt it didn't. Around 61.76% think that artificial sweeteners will lead to more headaches whereas 38.24% felt it won't cause headaches.

Conclusion: This study revealed that many people have little knowledge and are unaware of the consequences of diet soda. Therefore this study may help to gain wide knowledge about diet soda and also help them to change their attitude towards it.
A Systematic Review of Auditory Loss and Its Management
Authors: Kulkarni Shrawani , Totey Mansi , Agarwal Shivi , Gaurkar Sagar
Published: January 2022

Auditory loss is a highly under recognised undermined issue which needs to be studied in extensive detail, as according to World Health Organisation, more than 45% of the global population has loss of auditory. The high percentage can be lowered if auditory enhancement techniques such as auditory aids or implants of cochlea were not underused. In order to increase the usage of these devices we must first understand the inner workings of the ear and the pathologies that may cause it to malfunction and then move on to proper management. Auditory loss as defined by WHO as the inability to hear as well as someone with normal auditory, these are persons having auditory thresholds of 20 dB or better than 20 dB in both ears. Auditory loss is often classified into two types, conductive auditory loss and sensorineural auditory loss which is a broad classification into which we can separate the various pathologies which bring about same outcomes. In conductive auditory loss, there is often involvement of external or middle ear where there is obstruction in relay of sound waves, hence, quite literally a problem with the conduction. Conductive auditory loss can be both congenital or acquired but most often can be resolved in a manner which will result in recovery of auditory. Sensorineural auditory loss occurs when there is dysfunction in the inner ear which often leads to progressive and permanent auditory loss. Though it can be congenital, it is most often acquired, especially when it is age related more commonly known as presbycusis which affects a large amount of the aging population. The management can be done through various processes including oral medications, surgical interventions and other manual procedures. Various assistive technologies like auditory aids and cochlear implants are also vital in preservation of auditory.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Selected Indian Traditional Medicinal Plants
Authors: N. H. Honnesh , Saha Santanu
Published: January 2022

Antibacterial and antifungal activities are the universal supporting activities for other therapeutic activities like anti-inflammatory, wound healing etc. The traditional medicinal plants Pongamia pinnata and Macaranga peltata selected. The selected plants different extracts (Ethanol, Chloroform, Petroleum ether, Ethyl acetate and Methanol) were prepared and preliminary phytochemical screening was performed. The antibacterial and antifungal activity was performed by Agar well method by using Ciprofloxacin and Erythromycin standards. In this study we come to conclusion that the selected medicinal plants alcohol extract is having significant antibacterial and antifungal activity.
Determination of Risk Factors for DCIS Ductal in-situ Carcinoma of Mammary Gland
Authors: Bang Aneesh , Nagpure Shailesh
Published: January 2022

Mammary gland is altered gland present in skin whose main function in females is that it acts as a lactating gland while in males it is non-functional. When the sample of tissue of mammary gland is observed under microscope it was found that there are 2 major types of tissues which are present. These tissues are epithelial and stromal tissues. The epithelial component of the breast consists of 2 major parts: terminal duct-lobular unit (TDLU) which performs the main secretory function during lactation, and large duct system which performs the function of collection and drainage of secretions; both are interconnected to each other. During the menstrual age of a female patient there are different number of tissues (connective and adipose) is present in the mammary gland these tissues mainly perform as the support system for the mammary gland. Acini, ducts, and lobule are enclosed in intralobular stroma and is mainly formed of connective tissue(loose) myxomatous stroma and some dispersed lymphocyte. The ductal carcinoma is very serious Pathology of breast which is now a major concern in developed country and to a certain extent in developing countries also. There are many major risk factors which are responsible for the same. Some may be of lifestyle based or of genetic based. The treatment for the disease is now possible with advancement in the medical science.

Purpose for this review article is: Determine the cause affecting factors influencing factors and pathos physiological background of development of DCIS also to describe the gene involved in alteration of cell to enhance tumorous growth and the treatment therapy involved alongside the disease.
Urolithiasis Presenting as Right Flank Pain
Authors: Umare Vipul , Sheikh Shabanam N. , Umate Roshan , Mahatme Chetan
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Urolithiasis is a term that refers to the formation of calculi or stones in the urinary tract. Calcifications arise in the urinary system, generally in the kidneys or ureters, but they can also damage the bladder and/or urethra. It's a prevalent ailment that leads to a high number of hospital visits. It is generally avoidable by modifying risk factors, and there are a variety of treatment methods available. Clinicians should be aware of the signs, symptoms, potential consequences, and therapeutic suggestions. In urolithiasis, diagnostic imaging techniques such as double-contrast cystography, ultrasonography, radiography, and, potentially, computed tomography are used.

Presenting Complaints and Investigations: A 50-year-old male was admitted in AVBRH on 13/02/2021 with chief complaints of severe pain in the side, which spread to the lower abdomen and groin, pain in urination, nausea, vomiting for 15 days. Investigations included hematology and radiological  tests including Hemoglobin 7.5 gm/dl, Sodium: 19.1 mg/dl, creatinine: 5.4 mg, calcium: 11.5 mg/dl. Urine analysis, cystoscopy, ultrasound, KFT, LFT were carried out.

Main Diagnosis: Urolithiasis.

Therapeutic Interventions: Included Tab. Ibuprofen, Syp. Cystone.

Conclusion:  Urolithiasis is harder to treat in the aged since they have more complications and become less likely to show with classical renal colic complaints. This could result in a later presentation with larger, more complicated stones. Individuals with significant back and flank discomfort should consider acute care and preventive efforts in patients with renal calculi, as it might lead to hydro nephrosis and kidney failure.
Blunt Trauma Associated with Scleral and Retinal Injury
Authors: Khanna Kushagra , Maruthkar Swapneel , Shukla Samarth , Acharya Sourya , Vagha Sunita , Goyal Aditi
Published: January 2022

Ruptures of the eye normally occur at the point of impact, called a direct rupture, with a strongly focused blow. Because the force is dispersed according to hydraulic law, if the force is more diffuse, the rupture will be indirect and occur in the tunic of sclera of  weak location . The Physical examination commonly reveals the presence of a scleral hole of the globe following ocular trauma, however hidden perforations are common. The limbus, the area right below the ocular muscles, and the area around the optic nerve are all vulnerable locations in the sclera. A number of posterior segment abnormalities which are  caused by blunt trauma,  trauma to the orbit , and due to trauma related to other systemic causes. There can be several type of  injuries to retina which include (commotio retinae), injury choroid, retinal pigment epithelial oedema, retinal pigment epithelial oedema (choroidal rupture), and optic nerve (evulsion of optic fibres ) which can also  occur due to blunt ocular trauma. After this kind of  ocular trauma, retinal detachment, traumatic macular holes may be seen. Concussive forces also lead to  damage to the orbital tissues near to the globe, which can also  result in injury to various structures inside the eye like  (chorioretinitis sclopetaria). other types of retinal injury include Diffuse retinopathy (Putcher’s retinopathy) can be caused by systemic trauma. They tend to be circumferential rather than radial, although if the hit is powerful enough, they may spread radially. The ones near the limbus are difficult to tell apart from lacerations, while the ones further back are easy to spot.
Lysophosphatidylcholine disrupts cell adhesion and induces anoikis in hepatocytes
Authors: Chen Hao , Ma Jiarui , Liu Jin , Dou Lin , Shen Tao , Zuo Huiyan , Xu Fangzhi , Zhao Li , Tang Weiqing , Man Yong , Ma Yanyan , Li Jian , Huang Xiuqing
Published: January 2022

Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), the active metabolite of palmitate, triggers hepatocyte death by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress and JNK signalling‐mediated lipoapoptosis. However, LPC‐induced cytotoxicity in hepatocytes is not well understood. Here, we found for the first time that LPC‐induced cell rounding occurred prior to apoptosis. LPC‐induced rounding of cells reduced both cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion and cell–cell junctions, which promoted detachment‐induced apoptosis (defined as anoikis) in hepatocytes. Further study revealed that LPC altered cellular morphology and cell adhesion by inhibiting integrin and cadherin signalling‐mediated microfilament polymerization. We also found that ECM supplementation and microfilament cytoskeletal stabilization inhibited LPC‐induced hepatocyte death by attenuating anoikis. Our data indicate a novel cytotoxic process and signalling pathway induced by LPC.
Target margin design through analyzing a large cohort of clinical log data in the cyberknife system
Authors: Samadi Miandoab Payam , Saramad Shahyar , Setayeshi Saeed
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Calculating the adequate target margin for real‐time tumor tracking using the Cyberknife system is a challenging issue since different sources of error exist. In this study, the clinical log data of the Cyberknife system were analyzed to adequately quantify the planned target volume (PTV) margins of tumors located in the lung and abdomen regions.

Methods

In this study, 45 patients treated with the Cyberknife module were examined. In this context, adequate PTV margins were estimated based on the Van Herk formulation and the uncertainty estimation method by considering the impact of errors and uncertainties. To investigate the impact of errors and uncertainties on the estimated PTV margins, a statistical analysis was also performed.

Results

Our study demonstrates five different sources of errors, including segmentation, deformation, correlation, prediction, and targeting errors, which were identified as the main sources of error in the Cyberknife system. Furthermore, the clinical evaluation of the current study reveals that the two different formalisms provided almost identical PTV margin estimates. Additionally, 4–5 mm and 5 mm margins on average could provide adequate PTV margins at lung and abdomen tumors in all three directions, respectively. Overall, it was found that concerning the PTV margins, the impact of correlation and prediction errors is very high, while the impact of robotics error is low.

Conclusions

The current study can address two limitations in previous researches, namely insufficient sample sites and a smaller number of patients. A comparison of the present results concerning the lung and abdomen areas with other studies reveals that the proposed strategy could provide a better reference in selection the PTV margins. To our knowledge, this study is one of the first attempts to estimate the PTV margins in the lung and abdomen regions for a large cohort of patients treated using the Cyberknife system.
Risk factors and abnormal cerebrospinal fluid associate with cognitive symptoms after mild COVID‐19
Authors: Apple Alexandra C. , Oddi Alexis , Peluso Michael J. , Asken Breton M. , Henrich Timothy J. , Kelly J. Daniel , Pleasure Samuel J. , Deeks Steven G. , Allen Isabel Elaine , Martin Jeffrey N. , Ndhlovu Lishomwa C. , Miller Bruce L. , Stephens Melanie L. , Hellmuth Joanna
Published: January 2022

Cognitive post‐acute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 (PASC) can occur after mild COVID‐19. Detailed clinical characterizations may inform pathogenesis. We evaluated 22 adults reporting cognitive PASC and 10 not reporting cognitive symptoms after mild SARS‐CoV‐2 infection through structured interviews, neuropsychological testing, and optional cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluations (53%). Delayed onset of cognitive PASC occurred in 43% and associated with younger age. Cognitive PASC participants had a higher number of pre‐existing cognitive risk factors (2.5 vs. 0; p = 0.03) and higher proportion with abnormal CSF findings (77% vs. 0%; p = 0.01) versus controls. Cognitive risk factors and immunologic mechanisms may contribute to cognitive PASC pathogenesis.
In Situ Atomic Force Microscopy Analysis of the Corrosion Processes at the Buried Interface of an Epoxy‐like Model Organic Film and AA2024‐T3 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Almalla Ahed , Ozcan Ozlem , Witt Julia
Published: January 2022

The application of characterization methods with high spatial resolution to the analysis of buried coating/metal interfaces requires the design and use of model systems. Herein, an epoxy‐like thin film is used as a model coating resembling the epoxy‐based coatings and adhesives widely used in technical applications. Spin coating is used for the deposition of a 30 nm‐thin bilayer (BL) composed of poly‐(ethylenimine) (PEI) and poly[(o‐cresyl glycidyl ether)‐co‐formaldehyde] (CNER). Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results confirm that the exposure of coated AA2024‐T3 (AA) samples to the corrosive electrolyte solution does not cause the degradation of the polymer layer. In situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies are performed to monitor local corrosion processes at the buried interface of the epoxy‐like film and the AA2024‐T3 aluminum alloy surface in an aqueous electrolyte solution. Hydrogen evolution due to the reduction of water as the cathodic corrosion reaction leads to local blister formation. Based on the results of the complementary energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis performed at the same region of interest, most of the hydrogen evolved originates at the vicinity of Mg‐containing intermetallic particles.
Current Advances in the Roles of Doped Bioactive Metal in Biodegradable Polymer Composite Scaffolds for Bone Repair: A Mini Review
Authors: Li Fufen , Li Shan , Liu Yang , Zhang Zetian , Li Zhengjun
Published: January 2022

The election of bone tissue engineering scaffolds material is mainly based on the bionics of natural bones. Although the content of trace elements in bone is low, the lack of them affects the growth and metabolism of bones, thus increasing the risk of orthopedic diseases caused by the deterioration of bone quality. Therefore, inspired by trace elements in natural bone, biodegradable polymer composite scaffolds doped with bioactive metals such as Mg, Zn, Sr, Fe, Cu, Mn, Co, Li, Ag, Nb, and V have attracted more attention. Herein, the role of bioactive metals doping in biodegradable polymer matrix is mainly reviewed, including improving hydrophilicity, preventing aseptic inflammation caused by acidic degradation products, imparting antibacterial activity, improving mechanical properties, and promoting vascularization of polymer scaffolds. Then, the reasons and solutions for interfacial bonding and cytotoxicity caused by doping bioactive metals are focused on.
Fire‐Retardant and Thermal‐Insulating Cellulose Nanofibril Aerogel Modified by In Situ Supramolecular Assembly of Melamine and Phytic Acid
Authors: Ren Xueyong , Song Mingyao , Jiang Jungang , Yu Zhengyang , Zhang Yifan , Zhu Yeling , Liu Xuelei , Li Chunmiao , Oguzlu-Baldelli Hale , Jiang Feng
Published: January 2022

The widespread utilization of cellulose nanofibril (CNF) has been significantly hindered by its inherent flammability. To explore the potential of using CNF aerogel as sustainable material with good fire‐retardant and thermal‐insulating properties, CNF aerogel is modified by in situ supramolecular assembly of melamine (MEL) and phytic acid (PA). This strategy addresses CNF's flammability and avoids the environment issues associated with the incorporation of traditional fire‐retardant. The modified aerogel exhibits highly porous honeycomb structure with low density and good mechanical properties. After modification with MEL–PA, the aerogel exhibits highly improved shape integrity during burning, higher thermal stability, and favorable combustion behavior for fire retardancy. The heat transfer of the modified aerogel is well hindered, which demonstrated effective thermal insulation performance. In view of the excellent thermal and fire‐retardant properties, the MEL–PA/CNF composite aerogel can be a potential fire‐retardant and thermal‐insulating material for applications such as clothing, building, and electronic devices.
Regulated Polyion Complex Vesicles for Efficient Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Zhou Wenjuan , Ding Peng , Zhang Chenglin , Wu Bohang , Guo Xuhong , Cohen Stuart Martien A. , Zhou Xuhui , Wang Junyou
Published: January 2022

Polyion complex (PIC) vesicles have attracted considerable attention as soft yet functional delivery vehicles. However, most of the PIC vesicles suffer from insufficient stability and functionality which hinder their applications. Herein, a new type of PIC vesicles obtained by co‐assembly of neutral‐cationic diblock copolymers with a supramolecular coordination polyelectrolyte is reported. The latter exhibits tunable structures and properties that endows regulated stability and functionalities of the vesicles. With lanthanide‐based coordination polymers, PIC vesicles are constructed with not only enhanced stability against salt, but also tunable fluorescent or magnetic properties associated with particular Ln3+ ions. Moreover, the vesicle lumen is applied to load PEGlated indocyanine green as a model photothermal transduction agent. The designed vesicles finally display high stability, good biocompatibility, and efficient photothermal conversion, and therefore behave well for thermal ablation of both tumor cells and tumor in mice. The well‐regulated stability and functions of the PIC vesicles are assigned the adaptive structure and properties of the supramolecular coordination polyelectrolytes, which hardly be achieved with conventional covalent polyelectrolytes. This study therefore demonstrates a facile strategy to regulate the stability and function of PIC vesicles, and shall be inspirational for developing novel vesicular materials for potential biomedical applications.
Recent Progress on Self‐Healable Conducting Polymers
Authors: Li Yang , Zhou Xin , Sarkar Biporjoy , Gagnon‐Lafrenais Noémy , Cicoira Fabio
Published: January 2022

Materials able to regenerate after damage have been the object of investigation since the ancient times. For instance, self‐healing concretes, able to resist earthquakes, aging, weather, and seawater have been known since the times of ancient Rome and are still the object of research. During the last decade, there has been an increasing interest in self‐healing electronic materials, for applications in electronic skin (E‐skin) for health monitoring, wearable and stretchable sensors, actuators, transistors, energy harvesting, and storage devices. Self‐healing materials based on conducting polymers are particularly attractive due to their tunable high conductivity, good stability, intrinsic flexibility, excellent processability and biocompatibility. Here recent developments are reviewed in the field of self‐healing electronic materials based on conducting polymers, such as poly 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT), polypyrrole (PPy), and polyaniline (PANI). The different types of healing, the strategies adopted to optimize electrical and mechanical properties, and the various possible healing mechanisms are introduced. Finally, the main challenges and perspectives in the field are discussed.
Optical Rashba Effect in a Light‐Emitting Perovskite Metasurface
Authors: Tian Jingyi , Adamo Giorgio , Liu Hailong , Klein Maciej , Han Song , Liu Hong , Soci Cesare
Published: January 2022

The Rashba effect, i.e., the splitting of electronic spin‐polarized bands in the momentum space of a crystal with broken inversion symmetry, has enabled the realization of spin‐orbitronic devices, in which spins are manipulated by spin–orbit coupling. In optics, where the helicity of light polarization represents the spin degree of freedom for spin–momentum coupling, the optical Rashba effect is manifested by the splitting of optical states with opposite chirality in the momentum space. Previous realizations of the optical Rashba effect relied on passive devices determining the surface plasmon or light propagation inside nanostructures, or the directional emission of chiral luminescence when hybridized with light‐emitting media. An active device underpinned by the optical Rashba effect is demonstrated here, in which a monolithic halide perovskite metasurface emits highly directional chiral photoluminescence. An all‐dielectric metasurface design with broken in‐plane inversion symmetry is directly embossed into the high‐refractive‐index, light‐emitting perovskite film, yielding a degree of circular polarization of photoluminescence of 60% at room temperature.
Molecular Engineering in Perovskite Solar Cells: A Computational Study on 2‐Mercaptopyridine Derivatives as Surface Passivators against Water
Authors: Zhang Weiyi , Li Quan‐Song , Li Ze‐Sheng
Published: January 2022

Contemporary perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have drawn substantial interest due to their high photovoltaic efficiency. However, the instability of perovskite in a humid environment restricts the service time extension and limits the large‐scale application of PSCs. Herein, a series of passivation molecules (PMs), 2‐MEP, 2‐MDEP, 2‐MTEP, and 2‐MQEP, featuring different lengths of alkyl chains have been designed based on 2‐mercaptopyridine (2‐MP) which greatly improve the stability of PSCs in the humid environment. First‐principles calculations demonstrate that the designed molecules offer stronger adsorption on the perovskite surface compared with 2‐MP. The charge density difference and Bader charge analysis show that the newly designed Lewis bases improve the charge transfer ability, leading to effective separation of carriers at PM@MAPbI3 interfaces. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations verify that the steady Pb‐N/S interactions in the MAPbI3/PM/H2O system effectively prevent H2O from approaching the perovskite surface. This work not only provides a set of promising surface passivators (especially 2‐MDEP), but also paves a way for the design of PMs that endow PSCs stability and make PSCs highly competitive in the photovoltaic market.
Effects of Vertical Molecular Stratifications and Microstructures on the Properties of Fullerene‐Free Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Dela Peña Top Archie , Ma Ruijie , Sharma Anirudh , Xing Zengshan , Jin Zijing , Wang Jiannong , Baran Derya , Weng Lu-Tao , Yan He , Wong Kam Sing
Published: January 2022

From the past years, the most commonly reported state‐of‐the‐art binary bulk heterojunction organic solar cells (OSCs) are mostly based on mixtures of polymer donors and fullerene‐free acceptors (polymer:NFA). However, along with it are a number of contradictory propositions, including (but not limited to) strategies to reduce energy loss and improve photocurrent generation through energy level alignments. Due to the resulting high similarity of molecular fragments from polymer:NFA heterojunctions, the effects of vertical molecular stratification are not yet well studied. Herein, the time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) molecular depth profiling reveals a vertical stratification in PM6:IT‐4Cl and illustrates how it can significantly influence the photovoltaic properties. The said inhomogeneity is also bound to introduce microstructure variations within device active layers. Consequently, it is systematically demonstrated how thin‐film microstructures can influence optoelectronic properties, wherein important metrics (e.g., energy losses and molecular energy offsets) are highly dependent. Thus, the understanding from this work provides foundations for more precise development of strategies to further advance OSC technology in future studies.
Superiority of Dual‐Atom Catalysts in Electrocatalysis: One Step Further Than Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Li Runze , Wang Dingsheng
Published: January 2022

In recent years, dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) have attracted extensive attention, as an extension of single‐atom catalysts (SACs). Compared with SACs, DACs have higher metal loading and more complex and flexible active sites, thus achieving better catalytic performance and providing more opportunities for electrocatalysis. This review introduces the research progress in recent years on how to design new DACs to enhance the performance of electrocatalysis. Firstly, the advantages of DACs in increasing metal loading are introduced. Then, the role of DACs in changing the adsorption condition of reactant molecules on metal atoms is discussed. Moreover, the ways in which DACs can reduce the reaction energy barrier of key steps and change the reaction path are explored. Catalytic applications in different electrocatalytic reactions, including the carbon dioxide reduction reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, hydrogen evolution reaction, and nitrogen reduction reaction are followed. Finally, a brief summary is made and the key challenges and prospects of DACs are introduced.
Improving targeting of farmers for enrollment in agri‐environmental programs
Authors: Duke Joshua M. , Johnston Robert J. , Shober Amy L. , Liu Zhongyuan
Published: January 2022

Agricultural cost‐share research and planning tend to focus on one program at a time, and hence overlook additional efficiencies that might be obtained by considering the possibility that enrollment decisions are related across different programs. Models of multiple‐program participation decisions enable these relationships to be considered as part of conditional enrollment predictions, providing more complete and accurate understanding of enrollment behavior. Analysis of data from farmer surveys in Maryland and Ohio show complementary drivers across program participation. Results are consistent with economies of scale and/or scope among different agri‐environmental programs. The data also show the gains in prediction accuracy when the model accounts for participation in other programs, thereby enabling improved targeting and program design. For instance, enrollment in commodity‐type programs causes a much larger marginal increase (12.6%) in the probability of Maryland cover crops participation than does the increase from Conservation Reserve Program enrollment (4.4%).
Simulating the effect of climate change on barley yield in Ethiopia with the DSSAT‐CERES‐Barley model
Authors: Gardi Mekides Woldegiorgis , Memic Emir , Zewdu Eshetu , Graeff‐Hönninger Simone
Published: January 2022

Climate change is expected to have a major effect on crop production in sub‐Saharan Africa. Crop models can help to guide crop management under future climate. The objective of the study was to investigate the possible effects of climate change on Ethiopian barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production using the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT)‐Crop Environment Resource Synthesis (CERES)‐Barley model. The study included field data of two barley cultivars (Traveller and EH‐1493) and four climate study areas in Ethiopia over 5 yr. Climate change scenarios were set up over 60 yr using representative concentration pathways (RCP; RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) and five global climate models (GCM). The model results indicated that the prediction of days to anthesis and maturity, as well as final grain yield, was highly accurate for cultivar Traveller with normalized RMSE (nRMSE) of 2, 1, and 12%, respectively, and for cultivar EH‐1493 with nRMSE of 2, 4, and 11%. A consistent increase in average temperature up to 5 °C and a mixed pattern of rainfall (‐61 to +86%) were projected. Yield simulations showed a potential reduction in yield up to 98% for cultivar Traveller and 63% for cultivar EH‐1493 in the future. Within a sensitivity analysis, different sowing dates, sowing densities, and fertilizer rates were tested as potential adaptation approaches to climate change. The negative effects of climate change could be mitigated by early sowing, with an increased sowing density of 25% and fertilizer rate of 50% more than what is recommended. Overall, the results indicated the ability of the CERES‐Barley model to evaluate climate change effects and adaptation options on rainfed barley production in Ethiopia.
Safe model‐based reinforcement learning for nonlinear optimal control with state and input constraints
Authors: Kim Yeonsoo , Kim Jong Woo
Published: January 2022

Safety is a critical factor in reinforcement learning (RL) in chemical processes. In our previous work, we had proposed a new stability‐guaranteed RL for unconstrained nonlinear control‐affine systems. In the approximate policy iteration algorithm, a Lyapunov neural network (LNN) was updated while being restricted to the control Lyapunov function, and a policy was updated using a variation of Sontag's formula. In this study, we additionally consider state and input constraints by introducing a barrier function, and we extend the applicable type to general nonlinear systems. We augment the constraints into the objective function and use the LNN added with a Lyapunov barrier function to approximate the augmented value function. Sontag's formula input with this approximate function brings the states into its lower level set, thereby guaranteeing the constraints satisfaction and stability. We prove the practical asymptotic stability and forward invariance. The effectiveness is validated using four tank system simulations.
Efficient synthesis of furfural from xylose over HCl catalyst in slug flow microreactors promoted by NaCl addition
Authors: Guo Wenze , Bruining Herman Carolus , Heeres Hero Jan , Yue Jun
Published: January 2022

Efficient synthesis of furfural from xylose over the HCl catalyst in a water‐methyl isobutyl ketone biphasic system was achieved in slug flow microreactors, using NaCl as a promotor which facilitates xylose dehydration and suppresses xylose condensation. An optimized furfural yield of 93% was obtained from 1 M xylose over 0.2 M HCl with 10 wt% NaCl at 180°C within 4 min. A comprehensive kinetic model was developed from monophasic experiments in water in microreactors, by incorporating the acidity in water and kinetic constants as a function of the chloride ion concentration. The coupling of kinetic model with furfural extraction, with consideration of phase volume change as a function of temperature and partial phase miscibility, enables to predict the results of biphasic experiments in microreactors where mass‐transfer limitation was eliminated. The aqueous phase containing HCl and NaCl could be readily recycled and reused multiple times without noticeable performance loss.
Chemisorption of CO2 in a gas–liquid vortex reactor: An interphase mass transfer efficiency assessment
Authors: Ouyang Yi , Nunez Manzano Manuel , Chen Siyuan , Wetzels Ruben , Verspeelt Tom , Van Geem Kevin M. , Heynderickx Geraldine J.
Published: January 2022

To develop cost‐effective CO2 capture technology process intensification will play a vital role. In this work, the capabilities of a gas–liquid vortex reactor (GLVR) as novel process intensification equipment are evaluated by studying its interphase mass transfer parameters to build up the fundamentals for its future application to for example, CO2 capture. The NaOH‐CO2 chemisorption system and Danckwerts' model are applied to obtain the effective interfacial area and liquid‐side mass transfer coefficient. Results show that the gas–liquid contact in the GLVR is capable of both generating a large interfacial area in a small reactor volume and creating a region with high‐energy dissipation to improve mass transfer. A comparison of the volumetric mass transfer coefficients with data reported in literature for conventional and intensified reactor types confirms a superior mass transfer efficiency and, most importantly, a favorable energetic efficiency of the GLVR.
The utility of DNA methylation signatures in directing genome sequencing workflow: Kabuki syndrome and CDK13‐related disorder
Authors: Marwaha Ashish , Costain Gregory , Cytrynbaum Cheryl , Mendoza‐Londono Roberto , Chad Lauren , Awamleh Zain , Chater‐Diehl Eric , Choufani Sanaa , Weksberg Rosanna
Published: January 2022

Kabuki syndrome (KS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by hypotonia, intellectual disability, skeletal anomalies, and postnatal growth restriction. The characteristic facial appearance is not pathognomonic for KS as several other conditions demonstrate overlapping features. For 20‐30% of children with a clinical diagnosis of KS, no causal variant is identified by conventional genetic testing of the two associated genes, KMT2D and KDM6A. Here, we describe two cases of suspected KS that met clinical diagnostic criteria and had a high gestalt match on the artificial intelligence platform Face2Gene. Although initial KS testing was negative, genome‐wide DNA methylation (DNAm) was instrumental in guiding genome sequencing workflow to establish definitive molecular diagnoses. In one case, a positive DNAm signature for KMT2D led to the identification of a cryptic variant in KDM6A by genome sequencing; for the other case, a DNAm signature different from KS led to the detection of another diagnosis in the KS differential, CDK13‐related disorder. This approach illustrates the clinical utility of DNAm signatures in the diagnostic workflow for the genome analyst or clinical geneticist—especially for disorders with overlapping clinical phenotypes.
Generation of an Enhanced Multi‐Mode Optomechanical‐Like Quantum System and Its Application in Creating Hybrid Entangled States
Authors: Wu Qi‐Cheng , Zhou Yan‐Hui , Ye Biao‐Liang , Liu Tong , Zhao Jun‐Long , Chen Dong‐Xu , Yang Chui‐Ping
Published: January 2022

Realizing strong optomechanical interaction at a few‐photon level is one of the most significant tasks in optomechanical physics. In this paper, an efficient approach to realize an enhanced optomechanical‐like coupling in a cross‐Kerr‐type coupled three‐mode optical cavity system via a driving field is presented. It is shown that the optomechanical‐like coupling can be strongly enhanced to enter the ultrastrong‐coupling regime, and the effects of cavity field damping can be effectively restrained by adjusting the driving field and the cavity frequencies. In addition, as an application of the enhanced multimode optomechanical‐like quantum system, a scheme is propsed to deterministically generate a hybrid Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger state. Numerical simulation reveals that the scheme is reliable and robust against various dissipation effects and the fluctuations of control parameters in current technology. This work has potential applications in quantum information processing and paves the way for the study of multimode optomechanical systems.
Electrochemical Hydrogenation of Furfural in Aqueous Acetic Acid Media with Enhanced 2‐Methylfuran Selectivity Using CuPd Bimetallic Catalysts
Authors: Zhou Peng , Li Linbo , Mosali Venkata Sai Sriram , Chen Yu , Luan Peng , Gu Qinfen , Turner David R. , Huang Liang , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2022

Herein, we report a series of CuPd catalysts for electrochemical hydrogenation (ECH) of furfural to 2‐methylfuran (MF or FurCH3 where Fur=furyl) in aqueous 0.1 M acetic acid (pH 2.9). The highest faradaic efficiency (FE) for MF reached 75 % at −0.58 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode with an average partial current density of 4.5 mA cm−2. In situ surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic and kinetic isotopic experiments suggested that electrogenerated adsorbed hydrogen (Hads) was involved in the reaction and incorporation of Pd enhanced the surface coverage of Hads and optimized the adsorption pattern of furfural, leading to a higher FE for MF. Density functional theory calculations revealed that Pd incorporation reduced the energy barrier for the hydrogenation of FurCH2* to FurCH3*. Our study demonstrates that catalyst surface structure/composition plays a crucial role in determining the selectivity in ECH and provides a new strategy for designing advanced catalysts for ECH of bio‐derived oxygenates.
The effect of polydopamine coated multi‐walled carbon nanotube on the wettability of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) nanocomposite as a proton exchange membrane
Authors: Esmaeilzadeh Zahra , Karimi Mohammad , Mousavi Shoushtari Ahmad , Javanbakht Mehran
Published: January 2022

In the present study, the effect of polydopamine coated multi‐walled carbon nanotube (PCNT) on the surface properties ‐wettability and surface free energy (SFE)‐ of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) nanocomposite based on sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) was studied. First, the polydopamine (PDA) coating process was optimized based on a response surface methodology (RSM), then PCNTs and the prepared PEM nanocomposites were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–vis spectroscopy, X‐Ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analyses. The physicochemical properties of membranes were also studied. The surface properties of PEMs were evaluated through estimating the SFE based on Owens, Wendt, Rabel, and Kaelble (OWRK) and Kwok and Neumann (K&N) theories; the SFE data revealed that OWRK is a more reliable method in this respect. Interestingly, the total SFE of SPEEK/PCNT nanocomposite did not notably change compared to the SPEEK membrane, but the polarity of SPEEK/PCNTs significantly decreased from 32.1% in SPEEK to 3.8% in the nanocomposite. This result could be attributed to the acid–base interaction of nanofiller and polymer, resulting in the involvement of polar group of polymer and new orientation of SPEEK chains at the surface of the nanocomposite.
Water soluble photocurable carboxymethyl cellulose‐based bioactive hydrogels for digital light processing
Authors: Zhang Jiancheng , Huang Da , Liu Shuifeng , Yang Zijun , Dong Xianming , Zhang Hongwu , Huang Wenhua , Zhou Shuzhen , Wei Yen , Hua Weijian , Jin Yifei , Zhou Wuyi , Zheng Wenxu
Published: January 2022

The development of light‐based three‐dimensional (3D) printing has changed the manufacturing processes from various materials. The advantages of printing using customized materials are gradually highlighted due to excellent and reliable precision, high repeatability, and wide range of build materials, which enable customized materials to be use in aerospace, biomedical, engineering, and other fields. Due to the existence of acrylate group or epoxy group, most of the commonly used photoactive macromolecules have the main limitations of poor water solubility and/or high biological stimulation, severely constraining the widespread application of these materials in biomanufacturing. To overcome these challenges, a natural hydrogel was modified in this study to achieve a new photocurable material with good biocompatibility and photocrosslinking activity. In particular, methacrylate‐carboxymethyl cellulose (Me‐CMC) was esterified by hydroxyl groups on the long chains of CMC, and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)/acrylamide (Am) was added as the crosslinking reaction point between the long molecular chains. Thus, networked structures of this biocompatible material can be formed by photo crosslinking in digital light processing (DLP). The developed composite hydrogel can facilitate the rapid prototyping and high precision manufacturing. The mechanical toughness, swelling property, and microstructures of the composite hydrogel were tunable by changing HEMA/Am content. In addition, it was found that cell survival rate of this photocurable composite hydrogel was good by culturing bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) with the material and, cells proliferated significantly in a short time (7 days), which proved the biocompatibility of the proposed material.
Industrial‐scale vacuum casting with silicone molds: A review
Authors: Wortmann Martin , Frese Natalie
Published: January 2022

Vacuum casting (VC) of reactive polymer resins in silicone molds is one of the oldest rapid tooling methods. It is widely used in the industry for prototype and small‐series production of thermoset plastic parts. Despite its widespread use, its scientific exploration is still scarce compared to other prototyping methods, such as three‐dimensional (3D) printing. Compared to conventional 3D printing methods, a wide range of excellent material properties can be achieved, making it well suited for the production of functional prototypes and even final products. The properties of the thermosets are comparable to those of injection molding in terms of viable shapes, mold fidelity, and material properties. However, due to the high cycle time and limited service life of the molds, VC is rarely utilized for mid‐ or large‐series production. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the art and recent advances in the field. The review also provides a detailed technical introduction to the mold production, the process flow, and the materials used. A particular focus is on the key challenges facing industrial‐scale VC today—how to reduce cycle time, and how to increase mold service life?
Antiphospholipid Antibodies Increase Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization, Senescence, and Inflammation via Toll‐like Receptor 4, Reactive Oxygen Species, and p38 MAPK Signaling
Authors: Tong Mancy , Kayani Teimur , Jones Deidre M. , Salmon Jane E. , Whirledge Shannon , Chamley Lawrence W. , Abrahams Vikki M.
Published: January 2022

Objective

Miscarriage affects 1 in 7 pregnancies, and antiphospholipid autoantibodies (aPLs) are one of the biggest risk factors for recurrent pregnancy loss. While aPLs target the endometrial stroma, little is known about their impact. Endometrial stromal cells (EnSCs) undergo decidualization each menstrual cycle, priming the uterus to receive implanting embryos. Thus, appropriate decidualization and EnSC function is key for establishment of a successful pregnancy. This study was undertaken to explore the effects of aPL on EnSC decidualization, senescence, and inflammation.

Methods

EnSCs under decidualizing conditions were exposed to aPL or control IgG alone or in the presence of either a Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR‐4) antagonist, a p38 MAPK inhibitor, a reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibitor, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), or acetyl salicylic acid. Secretion of decidualization markers and inflammatory interleukin‐8 were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase activity was evaluated. In a mouse model of decidualization, aPL or control IgG was administered, and uterine expression levels of decidualization and inflammatory markers were quantified by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Antiphospholipid antibodies increased human EnSC decidualization, senescence, and inflammation. This phenotype was recapitulated in the mouse model. The decidualization and inflammatory responses were partially mediated by TLR‐4 and p38 MAPK, while the decidualization and senescence responses were ROS‐dependent. LMWH, commonly used to treat aPL‐positive women at risk of obstetric complications, reduced the ability of aPL to increase EnSC decidualization and inflammation.

Conclusion

These findings shed new light on the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications in women with aPLs and underscore the benefit of heparin in preventing pregnancy loss in this high‐risk population.
Development of silica‐coated rare‐earth doped strontium aluminate toward superhydrophobic, anti‐corrosive and long‐persistent photoluminescent epoxy coating
Authors: Al‐Qahtani Salhah D. , Snari Razan M. , Alkhamis Kholood , Alatawi Nada M. , Alhasani Mona , Al‐nami Samar Y. , El‐Metwaly Nashwa M.
Published: January 2022

Long‐persistent phosphorescent smart paints have the ability to continue glowing in the dark for a prolonged time period to function as energy‐saving products. Herein, new epoxy/silica nanocomposite paints were prepared with different concentrations of lanthanide‐doped aluminate nanoparticles (LAN; SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+). The LAN pigment was firstly coated with silicon dioxide (SiO2) utilizing the heterogeneous precipitation technique to provide LAN‐encapsulated between SiO2 nanoparticles (LAN@SiO2). The epoxy/silica/lanthanide‐doped aluminate nanoparticles (ESLAN) nanocomposite paints were coated on steel. The prepared ESLAN paints were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). The transparency and coloration properties of the nanocomposite coated films were explored by CIE Lab parameters and photoluminescence spectra. The ultraviolet‐induced luminescence properties of the transparent coated films demonstrated greenish phosphorescence at 518 nm upon excitation at 368 nm. Both hardness and hydrophobic activities were investigated. The anticorrosion activity of the nanocomposite films coated onto mild steel substrates immersed in aqueous sodium chloride (NaCl(aq)) (3.5%) was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The silica‐containing coatings were monitored to exhibit anticorrosion properties. Additionally, the nanocomposite films with LAN@SiO2 (25%) exhibited the optimized long‐lasting luminescence properties in the dark for 90 min. The nanocomposite films showed highly reversible and durable long‐lived phosphorescence.
Liquid crystal‐based elastomers in tissue engineering
Authors: Gurboga Berfin , Tuncgovde Ebru B. , Kemiklioglu Emine
Published: January 2022

Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) play role in tissue engineering investigations, with the combination of orientational ordering generated by liquid crystal (LC) moieties and the elastic capabilities of polymers. Liquid crystal‐based polymer materials require a thorough understanding of their features that set them apart from other smart materials for proper design and application. LCEs offer many advantages for their widespread use in the field of biomaterials, by virtue of their simplicity of processing, anisotropic behavior, and responding to numerous external stimuli. Especially, LCEs have widespread usage in bioengineering applications such as scaffolds due to their biocompatibility, viability, and proliferation properties of these materials. This study introduces a brief overview of the new areas of liquid crystal‐based elastomer applications combining both biomaterials and engineering.