bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of phenolics from aqueous pyrolysis condensate by activated biochar
Authors: Sarchami Tahereh , Batta Neha , Rehmann Lars , Berruti Franco
Published: March 2021

Aqueous pyrolysis condensate (APC) is rich in acetic acid and has been utilized as feedstock for anaerobic digestion to produce biogas. However, various phenolic compounds dissolved in the APC act as inhibitors, negatively affecting the anaerobic digestion. In this work, we have investigated the feasibility of employing pyrolytic biochar as an adsorbent for the selective removal of phenolics from APC. Biochars derived from the pyrolysis of soft wood, rice husks, and sewage sludge and their respective activated forms have been tested as potential adsorbents for the removal of pure phenol from water solutions. The experimental results showed that, among the adsorbents studied, activated soft wood (ASW) biochar has the highest adsorption efficiency and capacity for phenol removal from water. The kinetic and isotherm studies showed that the phenol adsorption data with ASW biochar may be well described by pseudo second‐order equation and Freundlich model. Batch experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of pH, adsorbent loading, contact time, and temperature on phenolics adsorption onto ASW from APC. At optimal adsorption conditions (pH of 6.0, contact time of 30 min, adsorbent loading of 9.61 , and temperature of 25°C), an adsorption efficiency of 96.9% ± 1.8% and a capacity of 100.78 ± 2.7 mg · g−1 were achieved. Finally, the adsorption efficiency and capacity of ASW for phenolics removal from APC was successfully compared with those of commercial activated carbon, showing comparable results, which indicated the suitability of ASW as an environmentally friendly adsorbent.
Forecasting hyponatremia in hospitalized patients using multilayer perceptron and multivariate linear regression techniques
Authors: Theerthagiri Prasannavenkatesan
Published: March 2021

The percentage of patients hospitalized due to hyponatremia is getting higher. Hyponatremia is the deficiency of sodium electrolyte in the human serum. This deficiency might indulge adverse effects and also be associated with longer hospital stay or mortality if it was not actively treated and managed. This work predicts the futuristic sodium levels of patients based on their history of health problems using a multilayer perceptron (MLP) and multivariate linear regression (MLR) algorithm. This work analyzes the patient's age, information about other diseases such as diabetes, pneumonia, liver disease, malignancy, pulmonary, sepsis, SIADH, and a sodium level of the patient during admission to the hospital. The results of the proposed MLP algorithm is compared with the MLR algorithm‐based results. The MLP prediction results generate 23%–72% of higher prediction results than the MLR algorithm. Thus, the proposed MLP algorithm has produced 57.1% of the reduced mean squared error rate than the MLR results on predicting future sodium ranges of patients. Further, the proposed MLP algorithm produces 27%–50% of the higher prediction precision rate. Therefore, the MLP algorithm can be used for forecasting patient's hyponatremia.
VS38 staining contributes to a novel gating strategy in flow cytometry for small B cell lymphoma, especially in lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinemia
Authors: Mizuta Shumpei , Yamane Noriko , Mononobe Saya , Watanabe Asami , Matsuki Shinichiro , Komai Takao , Koba Yusuke , Mitani Sachiko , Kawata Takahito , Tamekane Akira , Watanabe Mitsumasa
Published: March 2021

Background

Multi‐parametric flow cytometry (MFC) is a helpful tool for detecting neoplastic cells in malignant lymphoma; however, lymphoma cells can be difficult to detect when characteristic immunophenotypic abnormalities are not evident. We evaluated the stainability of VS38, which is used for multiple myeloma, in normal and abnormal B cells using MFC to develop a new strategy for detecting lymphoma cells.

Methods

We compared the median fluorescence intensity of VS38 staining in lymphocytes from patients without hematopoietic neoplasms and in B cells from 26 patients with B cell lymphoma (BCL). To evaluate the performance of VS38 gating, we compared VS38‐positive B cells with the percentages of BCL cells, and with the mutation ratios of MYD88 L265P measured by droplet digital PCR in patients with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL)/Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM).

Results

CD27‐positive memory B cells were stained with VS38, whereas normal lymphocytes were faintly stained. Lymphoma cells were stained with VS38 in 11 of 12 patients with LPL/WM, 3 of 3 with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, 3 of 5 with mantle cell lymphoma, 2 of 4 with follicular lymphoma, and 1 of 1 with splenic marginal zone lymphoma. The percentages of VS38‐positive B cells in VS38‐positive BCL were equivalent to those of lymphoma cells and the mutation ratios of MYD88 L265P in LPL/WM.

Conclusions

VS38 identified neoplastic cells in plasma cell disorders and BCL. This might improve the accuracy of BCL diagnosis, especially in patients with LPL/WM.
High Pressure Synthesis of the Spin Chain Sulfide Ba9V3S11(S2)2
Authors: Almoussawi Batoul , Tomohiri Hayashi , Kageyama Hiroshi , Kabbour Houria
Published: March 2021

The new compound Ba9V3S11(S2)2 was synthesized using high pressure and high temperature. The single crystal XRD based structure solution and refinement show that it crystallizes in the hexagonal system with the space group P‐6c2 (188) and the lattice parameters a=9.1979(4) Å and c=18.0462(10) Å. Its one‐dimensional structure is related to the high‐pressure phase Ba9V3Se15 (Ba9V3Se11(Se2)2) and consists of chains made of face‐sharing VS6 octahedra running along the c‐axis. The chains contain two distinct sites of Vanadium with a mixed valence state of V3+ and V2+. The space between the chains, two type of columns, is occupied by disulfides (S2)2− pairs and isolated sulfide anions S2− surrounded by Ba2+ cations. The distributions within the columns are slightly different than in Ba9V3Se11(Se2)2 making the two compounds not strictly isostructural but analogues with the same symmetry and unit cell. We discuss this phase on the basis of crystallochemical analysis and DFT calculated electronic structure. Assuming a magnetic insulator as found from DFT+U calculations, we discuss the existence of magnetic clusters within the spin chains.
Preoperative sleep quality and adverse pain outcomes after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Bjurström Martin F. , Irwin Michael R. , Bodelsson Mikael , Smith Michael T. , Mattsson‐Carlgren Niklas
Published: March 2021

Background

Sleep disturbance is thought to aggravate acute postoperative pain. The influence of preoperative sleep problems on pain control in the long‐term and development of chronic postsurgical pain is largely unknown.

Methods

This prospective, observational study aimed to examine the links between preoperative sleep disturbance (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI) and pain severity (Brief Pain Inventory, BPI) 6 months postoperative (primary outcome), objective measures of pain and postoperative pain control variables (secondary outcomes). Patients (n = 52) with disabling osteoarthritis (OA) pain undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) were included. Quantitative sensory testing (QST) was performed preoperatively on the day of surgery to evaluate pain objectively. Clinical data, as well as measures of sleep quality and pain, were obtained preoperatively and longitudinally over a 6‐month period.

Results

Preoperatively, sleep disturbance (i.e., PSQI score >5) occurred in 73.1% (n = 38) of THA patients, and pain severity was high (BPI pain severity 5.4 ± 1.3). Regression models, adjusting for relevant covariates, showed that preoperative PSQI score predicted pain severity 6 months postoperative (β = 0.091 (95% CI 0.001–0.181), p = .048, R2 = 0.35). Poor sleep quality was associated with increased pressure pain sensitivity and impaired endogenous pain inhibitory capacity (R2 range 0.14–0.33, all p's < 0.04). Moreover, preoperative sleep disturbance predicted increased opioid treatment during the first 24 hr after surgery (unadjusted β = 0.009 (95% CI 0.002–0.015) mg/kg, p = .007, R2 = 0.15).

Conclusions

Preoperative sleep disturbance is prevalent in THA patients, is associated with objective measures of pain severity, and independently predicts immediate postoperative opioid treatment and poorer long‐term pain control in patients who have undergone THA.

Significance

Poor sleep quality and impaired sleep continuity are associated with heightened pain sensitivity, but previous work has not evaluated whether preoperative sleep problems impact long‐term postoperative pain outcomes. Here, we show that sleep difficulties prior to total hip arthroplasty adversely predict postoperative pain control 6 months after surgery. Given sleep difficulties robustly predict pain outcomes, targeting and improving sleep may have salutary effects on postoperative pain reports and management.
In Vitro Screening of 21 Bisphenol A Replacement Alternatives: Compared with Bisphenol A, the Majority of Alternatives Are More Cytotoxic and Dysregulate More Genes in Avian Hepatocytes
Authors: Crump Doug , Sharin Tasnia , Chiu Suzanne , O'Brien Jason M.
Published: March 2021

An avian in vitro screening approach was used to determine the effects of 21 bisphenol A (BPA) alternatives. Cytotoxicity and dysregulation of genes associated with estrogen response and other toxicologically relevant pathways evoked by these alternatives were compared with BPA. Most of the BPA alternatives (15/21) were equally or more cytotoxic than BPA in chicken embryonic hepatocytes; variability in cell viability was associated with chemical structure and the log octanol–water partition coefficient (logP) values. A negative linear relationship (r  2 = 0.745; p = 0.49–07; n = 18) was observed between logP and the log median lethal concentration (logLC50) values. The least cytotoxic BPA alternatives elicited the greatest gene dysregulation and, overall, most of the alternatives altered more genes than BPA (measured with a custom polymerase chain reaction array). This overall approach shows promise for use as a screen for hazard-based prioritization of BPA replacement alternatives and to ideally identify those that may be less harmful and/or require additional toxicity testing. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2024–2031. © 2021 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry © 2021 SETAC. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Effects of Polyester Microplastic Fiber Contamination on Amphibian–Trematode Interactions
Authors: Buss Nicholas , Sander Brianna , Hua Jessica
Published: March 2021

Microplastic contamination poses a global threat to aquatic organisms, yet we know little as to how microplastics may indirectly affect organismal health via their influence on species–species interactions (e.g., host–parasite interactions). This is problematic because microplastic-mediated alterations to host–parasite dynamics could negatively impact individual- population-level health of hosts. Using a larval amphibian (host) and free-living trematode (parasite) model, we asked whether 1) polyester microplastic fibers influence parasite survival; 2) whether polyester microplastic fiber ingestion by amphibians alters amphibian susceptibility to infection; and 3) whether simultaneous exposure of amphibians and trematodes to polyester microplastic fibers influences infection outcomes. Polyester microplastic fibers did not alter trematode survival, nor did their ingestion by amphibians increase amphibian susceptibility to infection. However, when amphibians and trematodes were exposed simultaneously to the fibers, the infection success of the parasite was reduced. Lastly, we conducted a field survey for microfiber contamination across multiple ponds and found microfibers across each of the sampled ponds. Overall, our results contribute to the limited knowledge surrounding the ecological consequences of microplastic contamination. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:869–879. © 2021 SETAC

Abstract

Shown are: 1) the effect of microfiber contamination on free-living trematode parasite survival; 2) the impact of microfiber ingestion on tadpole susceptibility to parasitic infection by trematode parasites; and 3) the impact of simultaneous microfiber exposure on the host–parasite interactions of amphibians and trematodes. MP = microplastic.
Areca catechu: A phytopharmacological legwork
Authors: Ansari Abdullah , Mahmood Tarique , Bagga Paramdeep , Ahsan Farogh , Shamim Arshiya , Ahmad Shoaib , Shariq Mohammad , Parveen Saba
Published: March 2021

Arecacatechu, commonly known as supari, consists of dried ripe nuts that came under Arecaceae family, which is cultivated in the tropical region of India and Southeast Asia. It is a prevalent traditional herbal medicine that is chewed to separate collected fluid in the alimentary canal and for killing worms.Areca catechuseed contains alkaloids (arecoline, arecaine, arecaidine, guvacoline, guvacine, and choline), tannin, gallic acid, gum, and various minerals such as copper, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. The chemical constituents of this plant have been used as antidiabetic, stomatitis, bleeding gums, gingivitis, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, leucorrhoea, urinary disorders, anorexia, diarrhea, blood pressure regulating activity, antiulcerogenic, antioxidant activity, anticonvulsant activity, central nervous system stimulant activity, antifertility, oxytocic activity, antiviral activity, anthelmintic, and foul breath. It showed a dose‐dependent toxicity profile, and various research has been done regarding its safety analysis and it would be considered safe when administered in the prescribed dose. The purpose of the present paper is to make available an up‐to‐date review on the ethnic, traditional description, morphology, phytochemistry, and the pharmacological and toxicological profile of this plant. Furthermore, the possible advances, trends, and a perspective for forthcoming research of this plant have also conversed.
Production of Low‐fat mayonnaise without preservatives: Using the ultrasonic process and investigating of microbial and physicochemical properties of the resultant product
Authors: Tavakoli Rojin , Karami Mostafa , Bahramian Samira , Emamifar Ario
Published: March 2021

In this study, ultrasonication was used at 20 kHz, 750 W for 5 min, as a nonthermal alternative to pasteurization and as a substitute for benzoate‐sorbate preservatives. Also, its efficiency on microbial and physicochemical properties of low‐fat mayonnaise stored at 4°C was investigated. The results showed the reduction of total counts of micro‐organisms, acid‐tolerant bacteria, molds, and yeasts during six months shelf life compared with the control samples. Sonicated mayonnaise samples had lower pH values and higher acidity in comparison with control samples during the storage. The speculation was verified through the microstructure of mayonnaise samples during storage time observed by SEM micrographs. The overall results indicated that it was possible to produce sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate‐free mayonnaise using the ultrasonic nonthermal method.
Metabolomic Analysis Uncovers Energy Supply Disturbance as an Underlying Mechanism of the Development of Alcohol‐Associated Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Huang Ying , Niu Ming , Jing Jing , Zhang Zi‐teng , Zhao Xu , Chen Shuai‐shuai , Li Shan‐shan , Shi Zhuo , Huang Ang , Zou Zheng‐Sheng , Yu Yue‐cheng , Xiao Xiao‐he , Liangpunsakul Suthat , Wang Jia‐bo
Published: March 2021

Alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) is caused by alcohol metabolism’s effects on the liver. The underlying mechanisms from a metabolic view in the development of alcohol‐associated liver cirrhosis (ALC) are still elusive. We performed an untargeted serum metabolomic analysis in 14 controls, 16 patients with ALD without cirrhosis (NC), 27 patients with compensated cirrhosis, and 79 patients with decompensated ALC. We identified two metabolic fingerprints associated with ALC development (38 metabolites) and those associated with hepatic decompensation (64 metabolites) in ALC. The cirrhosis‐associated fingerprint (eigenmetabolite) showed a better capability to differentiate ALC from NC than the aspartate aminotransferase–to‐platelet ratio index score. The eigenmetabolite associated with hepatic decompensation showed an increasing trend during the disease progression and was positively correlated with the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score. These metabolic fingerprints belong to the metabolites in lipid metabolism, amino acid pathway, and intermediary metabolites in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Conclusion: The metabolomic fingerprints suggest the disturbance of the metabolites associated with cellular energy supply as an underlying mechanism in the development and progression of alcoholic cirrhosis.
Stereotactic or conformal radiotherapy for adrenal metastases: Patient characteristics and outcomes in a multicenter analysis
Authors: Buergy Daniel , Würschmidt Florian , Gkika Eleni , Hörner‐Rieber Juliane , Knippen Stefan , Gerum Sabine , Balermpas Panagiotis , Henkenberens Christoph , Voglhuber Theresa , Kornhuber Christine , Barczyk Steffen , Röper Barbara , Rashid Ali , Blanck Oliver , Wittig Andrea , Herold Hans‐Ulrich , Brunner Thomas B. , Klement Rainer J. , Kahl Klaus Henning , Ciernik Ilja F. , Ottinger Annette , Izaguirre Victor , Putz Florian , König Laila , Hoffmann Michael , Combs Stephanie E. , Guckenberger Matthias , Boda‐Heggemann Judit
Published: March 2021

To report outcome (freedom from local progression [FFLP], overall survival [OS] and toxicity) after stereotactic, palliative or highly conformal fractionated (>12) radiotherapy (SBRT, Pall‐RT, 3DCRT/IMRT) for adrenal metastases in a retrospective multicenter cohort within the framework of the German Society for Radiation Oncology (DEGRO). Adrenal metastases treated with SBRT (≤12 fractions, biologically effective dose [BED10] ≥ 50 Gy), 3DCRT/IMRT (>12 fractions, BED10 ≥ 50 Gy) or Pall‐RT (BED10 < 50 Gy) were eligible for this analysis. In addition to unadjusted FFLP (Kaplan‐Meier/log‐rank), we calculated the competing‐risk‐adjusted local recurrence rate (CRA‐LRR). Three hundred twenty‐six patients with 366 metastases were included by 21 centers (median follow‐up: 11.7 months). Treatment was SBRT, 3DCRT/IMRT and Pall‐RT in 260, 27 and 79 cases, respectively. Most frequent primary tumors were non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC; 52.5%), SCLC (16.3%) and melanoma (6.7%). Unadjusted FFLP was higher after SBRT vs Pall‐RT (P = .026) while numerical differences in CRA‐LRR between groups did not reach statistical significance (1‐year CRA‐LRR: 13.8%, 17.4% and 27.7%). OS was longer after SBRT vs other groups (P < .05) and increased in patients with locally controlled metastases in a landmark analysis (P < .0001). Toxicity was mostly mild; notably, four cases of adrenal insufficiency occurred, two of which were likely caused by immunotherapy or tumor progression. Radiotherapy for adrenal metastases was associated with a mild toxicity profile in all groups and a favorable 1‐year CRA‐LRR after SBRT or 3DCRT/IMRT. One‐year FFLP was associated with longer OS. Dose‐response analyses for the dataset are underway.
Effects of video modeling on abduction‐prevention skills by individuals with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Abadir Christina M. , DeBar Ruth M. , Vladescu Jason C. , Reeve Sharon A. , Kupferman Douglas M.
Published: March 2021

Deficits in safety skills and communication place individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at risk of danger. Abduction prevention remains an understudied area. Video modeling has proven to be effective in some research on teaching safety skills to individuals with ASD. Existing research has yet to assess responding to lures from known people. The effects of video modeling on abduction‐prevention skills were evaluated using a multiple probe across participants with an embedded adapted alternating treatments design. Using video modeling, we extended research by teaching how to respond to lures from strangers and known individuals by securing a code word. Generalization was programmed for and assessed across multiple lure types, confederates, and locations. Participants demonstrated differentiated responding across lures from strangers and known people and responding generalized to untrained community settings, people, and lures. Three of the 4 participants maintained skills at least 1 week following mastery. Procedures, goals, and outcomes were considered socially valid.
Achievement‐Based Sentimental Value as a Catalyst for Heirloom Gift‐Giving
Authors: Grossman Daniel M. , Rahinel Ryan
Published: March 2021

Heirlooms are often created out of objects laden with sentimental value. This research asks whether specific subtypes of sentimental value are stronger catalysts for heirloom creation than others. We find that objects associated with achievements are perceived to be more suitable as heirlooms than those associated with enjoyment, even when controlling for the overall positivity of the association. Process evidence suggests this happens because heirloom creators (i.e., givers) have a primary motive to inspire their offspring to strive for accomplishments in their own right. In this regard, such heirlooms appear to be less about creators ensuring their personal achievement legacies are never forgotten, but more about creators leveraging their achievements to motivate the creation of larger, collective legacies by their families by those in following generations. Such findings have implications for both firms wishing to extend the life of the objects they produce and heirloom recipients who may stronger connect with the underlying intentions of the original possessing ancestors.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Atypical Imaging Features: Review of the Morphologic Hepatocellular Carcinoma Subtypes With Radiology‐Pathology Correlation
Authors: Bello Hernan R. , Mahdi Zaid K. , Lui Shu K. , Nandwana Sadhna B. , Harri Peter A. , Davarpanah Amir H.
Published: March 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fastest growing cause of cancer death in the United States with the incidence rate more than doubling in 20 years. HCC is unique since a noninvasive diagnosis can be achieved with imaging alone when specific clinical criteria and imaging characteristics are met, obviating the need for tissue sampling. However, HCC is a highly heterogeneous neoplasm. Atypical HCC subtypes vary significantly in their morphology, which can be attributed to specific histologic and molecular features, and can cause deviations from the classic imaging characteristics. The different morphologic subtypes of HCC frequently present a diagnostic challenge for radiologists and pathologists since their imaging and pathologic features can overlap with those of non‐HCC malignancies. Identifying an atypical subtype can have important clinical implications. Liver transplant, albeit a scarce and limited resource, is the optimal treatment for conventional HCC, potentially curing both the tumor and the underlying pre‐malignant condition. Some HCC subtypes as well as mimickers are associated with unacceptably high recurrence and poor outcome after transplant, and there remains limited data on the role and prognosis of liver transplantation for treatment of rare HCC subtypes. Other subtypes tend to recur later than classic HCC, potentially requiring a different follow‐up scheme. This review will discuss the appearance of different HCC subtypes in relation to their histopathologic features.

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
The emergence of imaging mass spectrometry in drug discovery and development: Making a difference by driving decision making
Authors: Castellino Stephen , Lareau Nichole M. , Groseclose Mark Reid
Published: March 2021

The pharmaceutical industry is a dynamic, science‐driven business constantly under pressure to innovate and morph into a higher performing organization. Innovations can include the implementation of new technologies, adopting new scientific methods, changing the decision‐making process, compressing timelines, or making changes to the organizational structure. The drivers for the constant focus on performance improvement are the high cost of R&D as well as the lengthy timelines required to deliver new medicines for unmet needs. Successful innovations are measured against both the quality and quantity of potential new medicines in the pipeline and the delivery to patients. In this special feature article, we share our collective experience implementing matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI IMS) technology as an innovative approach to better understand the tissue biodistribution of drugs in the early phases of drug discovery to establish pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic (PK‐PD) relationships, as well as in the development phase to understand pharmacology, toxicology, and disease pathogenesis. In our experience, successful implementation of MALDI IMS in support of therapeutic programs can be measured by the impact IMS studies have on driving decision making in pipeline progression. This provides a direct quantifiable measurement of the return to the organization for the investment in IMS. We have included discussion not only on the technical merits of IMS study conduct but also the key elements of setting study objectives, building collaborations, data integration into the medicine progression milestones, and potential pitfalls when trying to establish IMS in the pharmaceutical arena. We categorized IMS study types into five groups that parallel pipeline progression from the earliest phases of discovery to late stages of preclinical development. We conclude the article with some perspectives on how we see MALDI IMS maintaining relevance and becoming further embedded as an essential tool in the constantly changing environment of the pharmaceutical industry.
Study of the thermal stability of γ‐oryzanol present in rice bran oil over time
Authors: Hoffmann Bruscatto Mariangela , Murowaniecki Otero Deborah , Ribeiro Pestana‐Bauer Vanessa , Lorini Alexandre , Rosane Barboza Mendonça Carla , Carlos Zambiazi Rui
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Rice bran oil is unique among edible oils owing to its rich source of commercially and nutritionally important phytochemicals, such as oryzanol. γ‐Oryzanol performs an important role in the stability of rice bran oil. The crude rice bran oil obtained by solvent extraction is subjected to either chemical or physical refining to meet the specifications of edible‐grade vegetable oil. These refining processes can cause the compounds present in rice bran oil to degrade. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of γ‐oryzanol present in chemically and physically refined rice bran oils, when submitted to temperatures of 100, 140, and 180 °C for a period of 1368 h.

RESULTS

The chemically refined rice bran oil presented a lower γ‐oryzanol content than the physically refined rice bran oil at all heating temperatures. The losses of γ‐oryzanol at 100 °C, 140 °C, and 180 °C at the end of the heating periods for the chemically refined oil were 53.47%, 58.48%, and 97.05% respectively, and for the physically refined oil the losses were 38.11%, 53.58%, and 91.11% respectively.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of the time to reduce the oryzanol concentration by 50% and 100%, it is observed that the oil of rice meal refined physically presents greater stability, in the different temperatures studied and over time, than the oil of rice meal refined chemically. Thus, for situations where the oil needs to be subjected to prolonged heating, a temperature of 100 °C is indicated. In this condition, the physically refined oil is better for maintaining a higher concentration of γ‐oryzanol. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
External compensation for high‐resolution active matrix organic light‐emitting diode displays
Authors: Verschueren Lynn , Ameys Marc , Velazquez Lopez Mauricio , De Roose Florian , Bonnifait Mikaël , Smout Steve , Ke Tung Huei , Vandenplas Erwin , Kronemeijer Auke Jisk , Steudel Soeren , Genoe Jan , Dehaene Wim , Myny Kris
Published: March 2021

Two different external compensation methods for high‐resolution active matrix organic light‐emitting diode (AMOLED) displays are presented and compared. Both compensation methods are implemented using a small pixel circuit, namely, a 3T2C and a 2T1C pixel circuit, allowing high‐resolution displays. Due to the simple driving schemes, these methods allow fast driving, even for large displays. The characterization results show a significant improvement in current variation by implementing either of these methods. The VT compensation method using a 3T2C pixel circuit is able to reduce the current variation down to 0.56%, whereas the VT‐ and β‐factor compensation method using a 2T1C pixel circuit demonstrates a further reduction in current variations down to 0.079%. This method also clearly shows significant improvement in optical variation between neighboring pixels.
Distal pancreatectomy with en bloc celiac axis resection (DP‐CAR) and arterial reconstruction: Techniques and outcomes
Authors: Addeo Pietro , Guerra Martina , Bachellier Philippe
Published: March 2021

Background

Ischemic complications are still prevalent after distal pancreatectomy with en bloc celiac axis resection (DP‐CAR) despite the use of preoperative arterial embolization. We described our institutional experience with arterial reconstruction during DP‐CAR.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed short‐ and long‐term outcomes of all DP‐CAR performed for pancreatic adenocarcinoma between January 1, 1995 and March 30, 2020. Outcomes were compared according to the presence of arterial reconstruction.

Results

Sixty consecutive DP‐CARs were reviewed. Most patients underwent induction chemotherapy (85%) based on FOLFIRINOX protocol (80.3%). The hepatic artery was reconstructed in 50 patients (83.3%). The left gastric artery was reconstructed in 4 and preserved in 14 patients. A venous resection was associated during 44 DP‐CARs (36 segmental venous resections/8 lateral venous resections). Ninety days mortality was 5.0% with 48.3% (n = 29) overall rate of morbidity. Postoperative outcomes in term of mortality, morbidity, and ischemic events between patients with and without arterial reconstruction were similar despite a higher rate of venous resection (81% vs. 40%; p = 0.005) and more complex cases (Mayo clinic DP‐CARs class 1B, 2A, and 3A) in the reconstructed group.

Conclusion

Arterial reconstruction represents a safe surgical option during DP‐CAR to lessen postoperative ischemic events. This technique, reserved to high volume centers expert in vascular resection during pancreatectomy, deserves further comparison with standard technique in a larger setting.
Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the tongue in chronic graft versus host disease: An unusual report
Authors: Sugiyama Goro , Yamada Tomohiro , Sugi Tomotaka , Kamata YU , Ishibashi Kana , Mori Yoshihide
Published: March 2021

Sarcomatoid carcinoma (SC) occurs rarely in the oral mucosa, especially in the tongue. Conversely, chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) is a risk factor for secondary malignant tumors, especially oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This suggests that tumor formation caused by regulation of cGVHD is important for an effective understanding of SC. Herein, we report an unusual case of SC of the tongue in a patient with cGVHD. Short tandem repeat analysis using genomic DNA extracted from the tumor and lymphocytes of the patient was performed, and the loci of the donor and recipient were detected from the tumor locus. These data suggest that the SC was an undifferentiated carcinoma originating from donor cells that underwent epithelial mesenchymal transition. The clinical, pathological, and genomic features suggest an SC characterized by an undifferentiated aggressive OSCC occurring after cGVHD.
Good governance and COVID‐19: The digital bureaucracy to response the pandemic (Singapore as a model)
Authors: Abdou Ahmed Mohammad
Published: March 2021

Since 2019, countries in the world have been facing many economic, political, social, and health shocks and challenges that are not easily faced with the COVID‐19 pandemic, including Singapore. Under these conditions, the performance of the governance system in dealing with a pandemic is tested transparently in public. However, the implementation of good governance by the Singapore government itself is carried out by steps and decisions that will be taken and implemented through the digital bureaucracy to the community in order to suppress the positive number of COVID‐19. The application of good governance also needs support other crucial elements that improved by digital bureaucracy, which are transparency, accountability, efficiency and effective.
Synthetic and mechanistic aspects of anionic polymerization of methyl methacrylate using tetrabutyl ammonium thioimidate
Authors: Ge Fang , Zhang Qun , Wang Xiaowu
Published: March 2021

The tetrabutylammonium salts of ionic organo‐initiator containing N,N'‐diisopropylthiourea (TUA‐1) or N,N'‐diethylthiourea (TUA‐2) serve as inexpensive initiators for the anionic polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) at room temperature. The molecular weights of obtained polymers are in the range of 1500–22,700 g mol−1 and the molecular weight distributions are fairly broad (Đ = 1.9–2.5) in optimized cases. The molar ratio of monomer to initiator can be achieved up to 800. Side‐reactions, for example, backbiting, transfer reactions result in the polymerization being a non‐living manner, thus leading to broad molecular weight distributions of the resulting polymers. The effects of counterion nature were also studied from the polymerization of MMA using TUA‐1 anion with sodium or potassium salts as counterions under identical conditions. Detailed investigation indicates that the polymerization proceeds via a sulfur anion initiated repeated 1,4‐Machael addition. In general, thioimidate initiators induced MMA polymerization feature certain induction periods, which is ascribed to slow addition thioimidate to CC double bond of MMA as a result of low initiator efficiency.
Between stuckness and stillness: Why do young adults not undertake temporary mobility?
Authors: Haldimann Lucas , Heers Marieke , Rérat Patrick
Published: March 2021

Youth temporary mobility occurs for purposes such as volunteering, Erasmus exchanges and linguistic stays. Although it is increasingly common, a large proportion of young adults are not mobile. This study is based on a large‐scale survey among young adults in Switzerland. It draws on the concept of motility to analyse the barriers to temporary mobility, where motility may be defined as a set of mobility resources that refer to three dimensions: access (e.g., financial means or time), skills (e.g., languages and self‐confidence) and appropriation (e.g., level of interest). A typology places nonmobile young adults on a continuum between ‘stillness’ (no desire to move) and ‘stuckness’ (unable to move) and identifies four groups: ‘the constrained’ and ‘the financially challenged’ are often constrained to a varying extent by their socio‐economic background, their educational pathways and their family network. ‘The locally anchored’ and especially ‘the satisfied stayers’ face fewer constraints and draw more on their own agency to be nonmobile.
CO2 Footprint of Thermal Versus Photothermal CO2 Catalysis
Authors: Wang Shenghua , Tountas Athanasios A. , Pan Wangbo , Zhao Jianjiang , He Le , Sun Wei , Yang Deren , Ozin Geoffrey A.
Published: March 2021

Transformation of CO2 into value‐added products via photothermal catalysis has become an increasingly popular route to help ameliorate the energy and environmental crisis derived from the continuing use of fossil fuels, as it can integrate light into well‐established thermocatalysis processes. The question however remains whether negative CO2 emission could be achieved through photothermal catalytic reactions performed in facilities driven by electricity mainly derived from fossil energy. Herein, we propose universal equations that describe net CO2 emissions generated from operating thermocatalysis and photothermal reverse water–gas shift (RWGS) and Sabatier processes for batch and flow reactors. With these reactions as archetype model systems, the factors that will determine the final amount of effluent CO2 can be determined. The results of this study could provide useful guidelines for the future development of photothermal catalytic systems for CO2 reduction.
Magnetic resonance findings of meningoencephalitis in a dog seroreactive to Ehrlichia canis in United Kingdom
Authors: Di Dona Francesco , Gomes Sergio A. , Andriuc Roxana A. , Garosi Laurent S. , Tauro Anna
Published: March 2021

We describe a novel clinical presentation and imaging findings in a dog seropositive to Ehrlichia canis. A dog presented with an acute non‐ambulatory tetraparesis and severe obtundation. MRI findings showed multifocal intra‐axial changes centered in the grey matter. The lesions caused mild mass effect and leptomeningeal contrast enhancement. The dog responded to treatment with the progressive reduction of antibody titers detected on the indirect fluorescent antibody test and complete resolution of the clinical signs. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis should be considered a differential in dogs with thrombocytopenia and meningoencephalitis.
Reliability evaluation of permanent magnet synchronous generator‐based wind turbines considering wind speed variations
Authors: Ghaedi Amir , Gorginpour Hamed
Published: March 2021

In recent years, renewable resources, especially large‐scale wind farms, are increasingly used to generate clean electricity in modern power systems. The penetration level of these power plants is significant, and due to the variation in the wind speed resulting in the variation in the generated power, different aspects of power systems, especially reliability, may be affected that must be studied. Reliability evaluation of power system considering large‐scale wind farms is dependent on two factors: the failure rates of composed components including turbine, generator, electrical converters, transformer, and cable and the variation in the generated power arising from variation in the wind speed. In this paper, dependency of different component failure rates on the wind speed variation is considered, and using the Monte Carlo simulation, reliability evaluation of power systems containing large‐scale wind farms is performed. A wind farm equipped with the permanent magnet synchronous generator is considered, and the failure rate of composed components considering wind speed variation is determined. Based on the wind speed‐dependent failure rate associated with the components of energy conversion system, the important reliability indices of Roy Billinton test system including loss of load expectation and expected energy not supplied are calculated.
A Zeolite‐confined Pd/Acid Sites for High Efficiency of B−H Cleavage
Authors: Liu Jia‐Wen , Wu Si‐Ming , Wang Yi‐Tian , Qin Yuan , Wu Jing‐Xian , Wang Li‐Ying , Tian Ge , Zhao Xiao‐Fang , Yang Xiao‐Yu
Published: March 2021

Confining noble nanometal in zeolite framework is a promising way to improve its efficiency and durability for catalytic reactions. Herein, the synergistic effect of Pd nanoparticles and intrinsic acid sites in zeolite on promoting hydrogen generation performance is demonstrated. Pd nanoparticles are embedded into macroporous ZSM‐5 (designed as Pd@ZSM‐5) via a steam‐thermal strategy. The confined Pd and acid sites in Pd@ZSM‐5 synergistically promote the activation of ammonia borane (AB) and water molecules, resulting in the enhanced H2 generation rates for AB hydrolysis. The interaction of Pd and acid sites in zeolite is further confirmed by solid‐state NMR techniques and the key aspect is the confinement effect of zeolite. Furthermore, Pd@ZSM‐5 shows high activity and durability in tandem hydrogenation of nitrobenzene.
No-go theorems on localization of gravity around higher codimensional branes in noncompact extra dimensions
Authors: Li Shing Yan
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We study the brane world scenario of a single brane (or a single stack of branes) with codimension higher than one. When the extra dimensions are not small, localization of gravity around the brane is needed in order to reproduce the observable four-dimensional gravity. We focus on the case of noncompact extra dimensions, where the possibility of localized gravity becomes non-trivial. We show that in large class of gravity models, localization of massless gravity is not possible for codimension-2 branes with at least one noncompact extra dimension. With additional mild assumptions on field backgrounds, we also show that it is not possible for higher codimensional branes with two or more noncompact extra dimensions.
About magnetic AdS black holes
Authors: McInnes Brett
Published: March 2021

Abstract

There has recently been a strong revival of interest in quasi-extremal magnetically charged black holes. In the asymptotically flat case, it is possible to choose the magnetic charge of such an object in such a manner that the black hole is surrounded by a corona in which electroweak symmetry is restored on macroscopic scales, a result of very considerable interest. We argue that holographic duality indicates that the asymptotically AdS analogues of these black holes have several interesting properties: the dual theory is only physical if the black hole is required to rotate; in the rotating case, the magnetic field at the poles does not attain its maximum on the event horizon, but rather somewhat outside it; the magnetic field at the equator is not a monotonically decreasing function of the magnetic charge; the electric fields induced by the rotation, while smaller than their magnetic counterparts, are by no means negligible; the maximal electric field often occurs neither at the poles nor at the equator; and so on. Most importantly, in the magnetically charged case it is possible to avoid the superradiant instability to which neutral AdS-Kerr black holes are subject; but the need to avoid this instability imposes upper bounds on the magnetic and electric fields. In some circumstances, therefore, the corona may not exist in the asymptotically AdS case.
Dark photon from light scalar boson decays at FASER
Authors: Araki T. , Asai K. , Otono H. , Shimomura T. , Takubo Y.
Published: March 2021

Abstract

FASER is one of the promising experiments which search for long-lived particles beyond the Standard Model. In this paper, we focus on dark photon associating with an additional U(1) gauge symmetry, and also a scalar boson breaking this U(1) gauge symmetry. We study the sensitivity to the dark photon originated from U(1)-breaking scalar decays. We find that a sizable number of dark photon signatures can be expected in wider parameter space than previous studies.
Quark and lepton mass and mixing with non-universal Z′ from a 5d Standard Model with gauged SO(3)
Authors: de Anda Francisco J. , King Stephen F.
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We propose a theory of quark and lepton mass and mixing with non-universal Z′ couplings based on a 5d Standard Model with quarks and leptons transforming as triplets under a new gauged SO(3) isospin. In the 4d effective theory, the SO(3) isospin is broken to U(1)′, through a S1/(ℤ2×$$ {\mathrm{\mathbb{Z}}}_2^t $$

ℤ
2
t

) orbifold, then subsequently dynamically broken, resulting in a massive Z′. Quarks and leptons in the 5d bulk appear as massless modes, with zero Yukawa couplings to the Higgs on the brane, and zero couplings to Z′, at leading order, due to the U(1)′ symmetry. However, after the U(1)′ breaking, both Yukawa couplings and non-universal Z′ couplings are generated by heavy Kaluza-Klein exchanges. Hierarchical quark and lepton masses result from a hierarchy of 5d Dirac fermion masses. Neutrino mass and mixing arises from a novel type Ib seesaw mechanism, mediated by Kaluza-Klein Dirac neutrinos. The non-universal Z′ couplings may contribute to semi-leptonic B decay ratios which violate μ − e universality. In this model such couplings are related to the corresponding quark and lepton effective Yukawa couplings.
Selected Clinical Features Fail to Predict Inflammatory Gene Expressions for TNF-α, TNFR1, NSMAF, Casp3 and IL-8 in Tendons of Patients with Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Authors: Struzik Slawomir , Czarkowska-Paczek Bozena , Wyczalkowska-Tomasik Aleksandra , Maldyk Paweł , Paczek Leszek
Published: March 2021

The pathophysiology of rotator cuff tendinopathy is not fully understood, particularly in terms of the local inflammatory process. This study aimed to investigate the expression of selected molecules in the tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α transduction pathway, including TNF-α, TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1), neutral sphingomyelinase activation associated factor (NSMAF), caspase 3 (Casp3), and interleukin (IL)-8, in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy that had undergone surgical treatment. We included 44 participants that underwent arthroscopy, due to rotator cuff tendinopathy. Samples from the injured tendon were collected during arthroscopy, and RT-PCR was performed to determine gene expression. Pearson correlation analyses or U-Mann–Whitney test were performed to identify associations with the following parameters: sex, age at admission, body mass index, the presence of night pain, previous treatment (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or steroids), medical history of the shoulder injury, upper subluxation of the humeral head, and the number of tendons injured. RT-PCR showed that the selected pro-inflammatory factors involved in the TNF-α signalling pathway expression levels were expressed in the tendon tissues. However, the levels of expression varied from patient to patient. Variations were over 250-fold for TNF-α, about 130-fold for TNFR1, NSMAF, and Casp3, and 1000-fold for IL-8. We could not confirm that any of the clinical parameters investigated were associated with the level of gene expression in the TNF-α pathway and IL-8.
The circadian clock and metabolic homeostasis: entangled networks
Authors: de Assis Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro , Oster Henrik
Published: March 2021

The circadian clock exerts an important role in systemic homeostasis as it acts a keeper of time for the organism. The synchrony between the daily challenges imposed by the environment needs to be aligned with biological processes and with the internal circadian clock. In this review, it is provided an in-depth view of the molecular functioning of the circadian molecular clock, how this system is organized, and how central and peripheral clocks communicate with each other. In this sense, we provide an overview of the neuro-hormonal factors controlled by the central clock and how they affect peripheral tissues. We also evaluate signals released by peripheral organs and their effects in the central clock and other brain areas. Additionally, we evaluate a possible communication between peripheral tissues as a novel layer of circadian organization by reviewing recent studies in the literature. In the last section, we analyze how the circadian clock can modulate intracellular and tissue-dependent processes of metabolic organs. Taken altogether, the goal of this review is to provide a systemic and integrative view of the molecular clock function and organization with an emphasis in metabolic tissues.