bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: A Single-Center Report of 48 Patients
Authors: Ouachée-Chardin Marie , Elie Caroline , de Saint Basile Geneviève , Le Deist Françoise , Mahlaoui Nizar , Picard Capucine , Neven Bénédicte , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Tardieu Marc , Cavazzana-Calvo Marina , Blanche Stéphane , Fischer Alain
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES. Familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FHLH) is a genetically determined disorder characterized by the early onset of fever, hepatosplenomegaly, central nervous system disease, thrombocytopenia, coagulation disorders, and hemophagocytosis. It is caused by genetic defects that impair T cell–mediated and natural cytotoxicity. Chemotherapy- or immunotherapy-based treatments can achieve remission. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), however, is the only curative option, but optimal modalities and long-term outcome are not yet well known.

METHODS. We retrospectively analyzed the outcome of HSCT that was performed in 48 consecutive patients who had FHLH and were treated in a single center between 1982 and 2004.

RESULTS. The overall survival was 58.5% with a median follow-up of 5.8 years and extending to 20 years. A combination of active disease and haploidentical HSCT had a poor prognosis because in this situation, HLH disease is more frequently associated with graft failure. Twelve patients received 2 transplants because of graft failure (n = 7) or secondary graft loss that led to HLH relapse (n = 5). Transplant-related toxicity essentially consisted in veno-occlusive disease, which occurred in 28% of transplants and was associated with young age, haploidentical transplantation, and the use of antithymocyte globulin (ATG) in the conditioning regimen. A sustained remission was achieved in all patients with a donor chimerism ≥20% of leukocytes. Long-term sequelae were limited, because only 2 (7%) of 28 patients experienced a mild neurologic disorder.

CONCLUSIONS. This survey demonstrates the long-term efficacy of HSCT as a cure of FHLH. HSCT preserves quality of life. It shows that HSCT should be performed as early as a complete remission has been achieved. Additional studies are required to improve the procedure and reduce its toxic effects.
Jet grouting with the superjet-midi method
Authors: Fang Y. S. , Kao C. C. , Chou J. , Chain K. F. , Wang D. R. , Lin C. T.
Published: March 2006

This paper introduces the superjet-midi (SJM) method, which has been developed to improve the efficiency of jet grouting. The diameters of soilcrete columns constructed with the new method are relatively large (2·4–3·5 m). Advantages and limitations of the SJM method are summarised. To examine the quality of construction, cylindrical SJM specimens were recovered at the site, and field and laboratory tests were conducted. It is found that the jet-sounding technique is a simple and economical measure to estimate the effective diameter of soilcrete columns. The rock quality designation of specimens varies from 79% to 97%, which indicates that the quality of the soilcrete is good. The uniaxial compressive strength qu of jumbo-jet special grout and SJM specimens are similar. The modulus of elasticity Et50 varies from 350 to 1990 MN/m2. These data are in good agreement with the range E50 = 100qu –300qu suggested by the JSG Association. Axial failure strains of SJM soilcrete are relatively close to the failure strains for concrete rather than those for soil.

Cet exposé présente la méthode superjet-midi (SJM) qui a é té développée afin d'améliorer l'efficacité de l'injection de ciment. Les diamètres des colonnes de sol bétonné construites grâce à la nouvelle méthode sont relativement importants (2·4–3·5 m). Nous résumons les avantages et les limitations de la méthode SJM. Pour examiner la qualité de la construction, des spécimens SJM cylindriques ont é té récupérés sur le site et des essais sur le terrain et en laboratoire ont é té menés. Nous avons trouvé que la technique de sondage sous injection est un moyen simple et é conomique pour é valuer le diamètre effectif des colonnes de sol bétonné. La dé signation de qualité rocheuse des spécimens varie de 79% à 97%, ce qui indique que la qualité du sol bétonné est bonne. Les forces compressives uniaxiales qu des spécimens JSG et SJM sont similaires. Le module d'élasticité Et50 varie de 350 à 1990 MN/m2. Ces données concordent avec la gamme E50 100qu –300qu suggérée par l'Association JSG. Les déformations de rupture axiale du sol bétonné SJM sont relativement plus proches des déformations de rupture du béton que de celles du sol.
Performance Evaluation of a ‘Sequential‐Batch’ Temperature‐Phased Anaerobic Digestion (TPAD) Scheme for Producing Class A Biosolids
Authors: Santha Harikishan , Sandino Julián , Shimp Gary F. , Sung Shihwu
Published: March 2006

Laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate the performance and operational stability of a Temperature‐Phased Anaerobic Digestion (TPAD) system modified to operate in the sequential‐batch mode. The system fed with a 40:60 mixture (dry weight) of primary sludge (PS) and waste activated sludge (WAS) at 5.5% solids showed stable performance with minimum variation in operational parameters such as biogas production, VFA to alkalinity ratio, pH, and foam accumulation at system retention times as short as 12 days. The maximum volatile solids removal (VSR) of 52.5% was achieved at a system retention time of 16 days. The system did not show any effects of “shock loading” at the retention times studied and outperformed a “conventional” mesophilic system operated at a longer retention time. The system was effective in reducing the densities of pathogenic indicator organisms in the biosolids to levels lower than those specified by U.S. EPA for Class A designation.
Survival of Total Coliforms in Lawn Irrigated with Secondary Wastewater and Chlorinated Effluent in the Mediterranean Region
Authors: Manios T. , Moraitaki G. , Mantzavinos D.
Published: March 2006

Pregrown, two‐month‐old lawn was layered in 12 large square pots with an area of 0.25 m 2 each, filled with a mixture of topsoil, peat, and sand. In late July, in the heart of the Mediterranean summer, the pots were divided into two groups, with six pots per group. On four different occasions, the pots in each group were sprinkled (surface irrigation) with 2 L of either secondary‐treated wastewater (STW, group A) or chlorinated effluent (CHE, group B). Wastewater application always took place at 0700 hours. Samples of the surface soil and grass from each pot were collected at the following times: before irrigation, immediately after irrigation, two hours later (0900 hours), and four hours later (1100 hours). In the samples collected, the number of total coliforms per gram was measured using standard microbiological analyses. Temperature and sunlight intensity were also monitored. There was an increase in the coliforms population in soil and grass samples of both groups immediately after the wastewater application. In group A, the mean number of coliforms recorded in the soil samples reached mean values higher than 5000 cfu/g compared to 312 cfu/g recorded before application. The increase in group B was smaller but still significant. Two hours later, the number of coliforms was reduced substantially in all samples (e.g., group A, soil samples 477 cfu/g). Coliform inactivation is thought to result from the effect of temperature and mainly sunlight. However, four hours after application (1100 hours), there was a noticeable increase in the coliform number again, in all sample categories of both groups. Coliform reactivation could be a result of shadowing effect resulting from the thick foliage of the grass, where the microorganisms were protected by the sunlight radiation and regrowth in a friendly environment (especially of the soil) where moisture and nutrients were present. This, in addition to the fact that coliforms seemed to retain a sizable population between applications, results in three conclusions: (1) coliforms can survive in grass and soil for a substantial period of time, recovering from the destructive effect of chlorination, (2) use of STW, even during the Mediterranean summer, could result in a substantial “contamination” of lawns, without any proof that sun and temperature can reduce the coliform number, and (3) intense sunlight (up to 68 000 lux) was far more effective in coliform suppression than elevated temperature (up to 38°C).
Water Quality Improvement through Bioretention Media: Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal
Authors: Davis Allen P. , Shokouhian Mohammad , Sharma Himanshu , Minami Christie
Published: March 2006

High nutrient inputs and eutrophication continue to be one of the highest priority water quality problems. Bioretention is a low‐impact development technology that has been advocated for use in urban and other developed areas. This work provides an in‐depth analysis on removal of nutrients from a synthetic stormwater runoff by bioretention. Results have indicated good removal of phosphorus (70 to 85%) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (55 to 65%). Nitrate reduction was poor (<20%) and, in several cases, nitrate production was noted. Variations in flowrate (intensity) and duration had a moderate affect on nutrient removal. Mass balances demonstrate the importance of water attenuation in the facility in reducing mass nutrient loads. Captured nitrogen can be converted to nitrate between storm events and subsequently washed from the system. Analysis on the fate of nutrients in bioretention suggests that accumulation of phosphorus and nitrogen may be controlled by carefully managing growing and harvesting of vegetation.
Modeling Addictive Consumption as an Infectious Disease
Authors: Alamar Benjamin , Glantz Stanton A.
Published: March 2006

The dominant model of addictive consumption in economics is the theory of rational addiction. The addict in this model chooses how much they are going to consume based upon their level of addiction (past consumption), the current benefits and all future costs. Several empirical studies of cigarette sales and price data have found a correlation between future prices and consumption and current consumption. These studies have argued that the correlation validates the rational addiction model and invalidates any model in which future consumption is not considered. An alternative to the rational addiction model is one in which addiction spreads through a population as if it were an infectious disease, as supported by the large body of empirical research of addictive behaviors. In this model an individual's probability of becoming addicted to a substance is linked to the behavior of their parents, friends and society. In the infectious disease model current consumption is based only on the level of addiction and current costs. Price and consumption data from a simulation of the infectious disease model showed a qualitative match to the results of the rational addiction model. The infectious disease model can explain all of the theoretical results of the rational addiction model with the addition of explaining initial consumption of the addictive good.
Calorimetry for Inferential Conversion Monitoring in Emulsion Copolymerization Reactors
Authors: Alhamad B. , Gomes Vincent G , Romagnoli J A
Published: March 2006

A dynamic model was developed describing emulsion copolymerization of styrene and MMA within a batch/semibatch stirred tank reactor. This model includes the initiation, propagation, transfer and termination steps of the monomers styrene and MMA. It also includes the mass and energy balance equations for the polymeric radicals. Energy balance equations incorporate the heat of reaction, internal and external heat transfer effects, as well as heat losses. The resulting sets of (differential/algebraic) equations were solved for both species concentrations and temperature profiles as functions of time. Experiments were conducted in a laboratory reactor, instrumented with platinum resistance thermal transducers and gravimetric conversion measurement devices. Thermal measurements in conjunction with the energy equations helped estimate monomer conversions as a function of time. The kinetic model predictions of conversion compared well with inferential calorimetric measurements, which were validated using gravimetric data. The experiments were run at variable operational conditions in terms of feed rate, temperature and monomers feed ratio. The calorimetric model was used as a soft sensor for the prediction of the rate of reaction, conversion and molar mass.
Identification of the State of a Magneto-Fluidized Bed by Pressure Fluctuations
Authors: Dahikar Sachin , Sonolikar Ram
Published: March 2006

Local instantaneous pressure signals obtained through a magneto-fluidized bed have been analyzed using both classical and advanced signal analysis methods, which can deliver the necessary information about the presence of the bubbling and turbulent flow pattern. The conventional signal processing tool such as autocorrelation and cross correlation were used as preliminary tools to analyze the data. Evaluation of the dominant bubble frequency was completed using the autocorrelation function and power spectral density function. Mutual information function was used to identify the periodicity and the predictability of the local instantaneous pressure signals. Since it does not demand any particular functional relationships between the data points, it is a better method (compared to autocorrelation function) for measuring the predictability of nonlinear systems.
Isothermal PFR/PMR Networks
Authors: Waghmare Ravindra S , Moharir Arun S
Published: March 2006

Combinations of Plug Flow Reactor (PFR) and continuous Perfectly Mixed Reactor (PMR, also known as Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor - CSTR) are widely known to give superior performance over a single reactor especially when multiple reactions take place in the reactor. The occurrence of a PMR in an optimal reactor network requires presence of inflection condition in the space of variables describing the reactor objective. The mathematical equation for inflection of multi-dimensional trajectories is derived and applied to five cases of well-known models of kinetic schemes. The previously known results are confirmed or improved upon by applying the technique. A general algorithm for PFR/PMR network synthesis for arbitrary kinetic models is presented.
Nursing EDGE: Evaluating Delegation Guidelines in Education
Authors: Henderson Deborah , Sealover Pamela , Sharrer Vicki , Fusner Sally , Jones Sandy , Sweet Stacie , Blake Tim
Published: March 2006

Delegation, an important concept for nursing students to learn and practice, is central to registered nurse (RN) performance, and important on the NCLEX-RN examination. Nursing faculty members from an ADN program designed a descriptive study to evaluate planned versus actual delegation in the curriculum, and a second study to evaluate an intervention on delegation.Study One assessed the presence of delegation in each nursing course. Statistical analysis compared the planned implementation with the results for student definitions of delegation, and identification of the five rights of delegation based on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) definition and five rights. Study one results are shared.Study Two utilized a comparison of pre-to-post intervention measures. Students were asked to complete eight steps of a delegation exercise and determine what could be delegated to an unlicensed assistant, and what should be completed by the RN. Answers were coded and entered into SPSS. Statistical analysis compared each student's ability to correctly identify the five rights of delegation prior to the exercise, against the ability to correctly answer five questions two weeks post exercise. Significant improvement (p< 0.05) occurred on each measure. Recommendations are discussed.
On the Economics of Capital Punishment
Authors: Becker Gary S.
Published: March 2006

Gary Becker makes the economic case for capital punishment.
Synergism of MW and Mvar Losses for Contingency Ranking Using Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Bichpuriya Yogesh Kumar , Kalra P K , Saxena Ajay Kumar
Published: March 2006

Security assessment of a power system is very important function to detect any violation in the system and to ensure secure operation of the system in deregulated environment. Contingency ranking is the process of indexing the possible contingencies of system on the basis of their severity. The contingencies of higher ranking are further analyzed for detailed analysis. The contingencies based on the real power flow and the voltage deviations should be dealt simultaneously for better ranking. The paper presents fuzzy approach to combine ranking based on MW and Mvar losses and a new rank list is prepared. The proposed approach is tested on IEEE-30 bus test system.
Rheological Properties of Butia Pulp
Authors: Haminiuk Charles Windson Isidoro , Sierakowski Maria-Rita , Maciel Giselle Maria , Vidal José Raniere Mazile Bezerra , Branco Ivanise Guilherme , Masson Maria Lucia
Published: March 2006

Rheological parameters of Butia pulp were determined at different temperatures using a concentric cylinder Haake Rotovisco rheometer, model RV-20, with measurement system ZA-30. Butia pulp was found to exhibit non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic behavior at all temperatures and the rheological parameters were adequately described by the Herschel-Bulkley model. Yield stress, flow behavior index, and consistency coefficient were significantly affected by temperature. The yield stress decreased exponentially with process temperature and ranged between 36.60 and 21.70 Pa. Apparent viscosity calculated through the Herschel-Bulkley model decreased with an increase in temperature. The Arrhenius model gave a good description of temperature effect on apparent viscosity of the pulp.
Kinetic Analysis of Microorganisms Inactivation in Apple Juice by High Pressure Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Spilimbergo Sara , Mantoan Denise
Published: March 2006

The interest towards cold pasteurisation of sensitive materials with high pressure carbon dioxide is growing more and more, especially for the applications to food products (1). The aim of this work is to study the kinetic inactivation of microorganisms naturally present in fresh apple juice, carried out in multi-batch equipment. Three operating parameters have been considered and discussed: temperature, pressure and volume treated. The results obtained confirm that high pressure Carbon Dioxide is effective for microbial inactivation even on particularly complex materials such as fruit juice. Temperature plays a fundamental role on treatment efficiency, with inactivation being significantly enhanced increasing its value from 20 to 36°C. The same trend was not observed for different pressures (60-100-200 bar). As far as the mass transfer between the fluid and the liquid phase is concerned, a high ratio between the surface and the sample volume (a low sample volume) exerts an important effect on the inactivation efficiency of the species considered. The results seem promising for a future development of industrial applications of high pressure Carbon Dioxide treatment on apple juice.
Digital Games and Learning in Cyberspace: A Dialogical Approach
Authors: Ravenscroft Andrew , McAlister Simon
Published: March 2006

Currently there is considerable enthusiasm for exploring how we can apply digital gaming paradigms to learning. But these approaches are often weak in linking the game-playing activity to transferable social or conceptual processes and skills that constitute, or are related to, learning. In contrast, this article describes a ‘dialogue game’ approach to learning in cyberspace related to Wittgenstein's notion of a ‘language game’ that seeks to explicitly link game-playing activity to the development of generic dialogical and reasoning skills that lead to improved conceptual understanding and collaborative knowledge refinement. This article initially discusses the current articulations of gaming as an approach to learning before justifying and describing the dialogue game approach the authors are currently adopting. This is followed by a summary of empirical evidence in support of this design paradigm and a desciption of a socio-cognitive tool called InterLoc that organises, mediates, structures and scaffolds educational dialogue games. The approach is demonstrated and the implications it holds for designing gaming or other types of educational interaction are then discussed in the context of existing and near-future possibilities within the evolving e-learning landscape.
Power and Agency in Online Text-Based Collaborations
Authors: Carusi Annamaria
Published: March 2006

This article considers power in text-based collaborations and proposes that in order for criticality to be directed towards the power structures at play in the discourse of collaborations, the interpretive strategies of participants need to hold in the balance the explicit or overt intentions of those with whom they are collaborating, and the implicit and possibly unintended meanings of their utterances. The attention to intention that is required for the creation of a domain of shared understandings is, however, made more difficult by the text-based nature of online collaborations, which brings these collaborations into a space of overlap with non-intentionalist models of reading and interpretation.
Predicting Flare in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Biologic Induced Remission, on Tapering, and on Stable Therapy
Authors: Gul Hanna , Di Matteo Andrea , Anioke Innocent , Shuweidhi Farag , Mankia Kulveer , Ponchel Frederique , Emery Paul
Published: February 2024

Objective

The tapering of biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (b‐DMARD) therapy for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in stable remission is frequently undertaken, but specific guidance on how to successfully taper is lacking. The objective of this study is to identify predictors of flare in patients in stable b‐DMARD–induced clinical remission, who did or did not follow structured b‐DMARD tapering.

Methods

Patients with RA receiving b‐DMARD treatment who had achieved sustained remission according to a Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the C‐reactive protein level (DAS28‐CRP) <2.6 for ≥6 months were offered tapering. Clinical, ultrasound (US) (total power Doppler [PD]/grayscale abnormalities), CD4+ T cell subsets, and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) were collected at inclusion. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of flare (loss of DAS28‐CRP remission) over 12 months. Logistic regression analyses identified predictors of flare. Dichotomization into high/low‐risk groups was based on 80% specificity using the area under the receiving operator curve (AUROC).

Results

Of 63 patients choosing tapering, 23 (37%) flared compared with 12 of 60 (20%) on stable treatment (P = 0.043). All patients who flared regained remission upon reinstating treatment. In the tapering group, flare was associated with lower regulatory T cell (Treg) (P < 0.0001) and higher CRP levels (P < 0.0001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P < 0.035), and inflammation‐related cells (IRCs) (P = 0.054); stepwise modeling selected Tregs (odds ratio [OR] = 0.350, P = 0.004), IRCs (OR = 1.871, P = 0.007), and CRP level (OR = 1.577, P = 0.004) with 81.7% accuracy and AUROC = 0.890. In the continued therapy group, modeling retained the tender joint count, total PD, and visual analog scale pain score, with 82.1% accuracy and AUROC = 0.899. Most patients in the study were considered low risk of flare (80 of 123 patients [65%]). Only 5 of 37 (13.5%) of the low‐risk patients who tapered flared, which was notable compared with the continued therapy group (20% flare).

Conclusion

Flare on tapering b‐DMARDs was predicted by lower Tregs and elevated inflammation biomarkers (IRCs/CRP level); flare on continued b‐DMARDs was associated with raised pain parameters and US inflammation. Knowledge of these biomarkers should improve outcomes by targeted selection for tapering, and by increased monitoring of those on continued therapy predicted to flare.
Black Phosphorus Covalent Bonded by Metallic Antimony Toward High‐Energy Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Ma Yibo , Wang Kai , Xu Yanan , Zhang Xudong , Peng Qifan , Guo Yang , Sun Xianzhong , Zhang Xiong , Wu Zhong‐Shuai , Ma Yanwei
Published: February 2024

Black phosphorus (BP) has been recognized as an alluring fast‐charging anode for batteries/supercapacitors due to its substantial theoretical capacity, propitious lithiation potential, and large interlayer spacing. Nonetheless, it is encumbered by challenges of low electronic conductivity, momentous volume expansion (≈300%), and pernicious shuttle effect induced by soluble polyphosphides. Here a BP heterostructure covalent bonded by metallic antimony (Sb) is showed, which can promote the reaction dynamics of BP and greatly ameliorate the cycling performance. Robust P─Sb covalent bonds are methodically engineered to regulate the Femi level, endowing enhanced electronic conductivity. The in situ generated Li7SbO6 ionic conductor in the P/Sb interface during the lithiation process ensures the fast Li+ transport. Furthermore, Sb offers strong anchoring and chemical adsorption capability on soluble lithium polyphosphides, preventing the shuttle issue. As a result, a lithium‐ion capacitor (LIC) full‐cell based on Sb@BP/C anode demonstrates a superior energy density of 174.3 W h kg−1 and a power density of 23.7 kW kg−1, as well as exceptional reversible capacity retention. This work provides insights into the regulation of reaction kinetics and chemical adsorption capability of BP, offering guidance for designing high‐capacity and stable BP‐based anodes.
Subsequent correlated changes in complement component 3 and amyloid beta oligomers in the blood of patients with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Shim Kyu Hwan , Kim Danyeong , Kang Min Ju , Pyun Jung‐Min , Park Young Ho , Youn Young Chul , Park Kyung Won , Suk Kyoungho , Lee Ho‐Won , Gomes Bárbara Fernandes , Zetterberg Henrik , An Seong Soo A. , Kim SangYun ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease All Markers (ADAM) Research group
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves the complement cascade, with complement component 3 (C3) playing a key role. However, the relationship between C3 and amyloid beta (Aβ) in blood is limited.

METHODS

Plasma C3 and Aβ oligomerization tendency (AβOt) were measured in 35 AD patients and 62 healthy controls. Correlations with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers, cognitive impairment, and amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) were analyzed. Differences between biomarkers were compared in groups classified by concordances of biomarkers.

RESULTS

Plasma C3 and AβOt were elevated in AD patients and in CSF or amyloid PET–positive groups. Weak positive correlation was found between C3 and AβOt, while both had strong negative correlations with CSF Aβ42 and cognitive performance. Abnormalities were observed for AβOt and CSF Aβ42 followed by C3 changes.

DISCUSSION

Increased plasma C3 in AD are associated with amyloid pathology, possibly reflecting a defense response for Aβ clearance. Further studies on Aβ‐binding proteins will enhance understanding of Aβ mechanisms in blood.
U.S. dementia care spending by state: 2010–2019
Authors: Lastuka Amy , Breshock Michael R. , McHugh Theresa A. , Sogge William T. , Swart Vivianne , Dieleman Joseph L.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Dementia is the fourth largest cause of death for individuals 70 years of age and older in the United States, and it is tremendously costly. Existing estimates of the indirect costs of dementia are dated and do not report on differences across the United States.

METHODS

We used data from multiple surveys to create cost estimates and projections for informal dementia caregiving at the U.S. state level from 2010 through 2050.

RESULTS

In 2019, the annual replacement cost of informal caregiving was $42,422 per prevalent case, and the forgone wage cost was $10,677 per prevalent case. In 2019, it would have cost $230 billion to hire home health aides to provide all this care. If past trends persist, this cost is expected to grow to $404 billion per year in 2050.

DISCUSSION

The cost of informal care varied substantially by state and is expected to grow through at least 2050.

Highlights

In the United States in 2019, foregone wages due to informal dementia care was $58 billion.

Replacing informal dementia care with health aides would have cost $230 billion.

These costs vary dramatically by state, even when assessed per prevalent case.

These costs are expected to nearly double by 2050.
Air‐Promoted Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production from Bioethanol over Core/Shell Cr2O3@GaN Nanoarchitecture
Authors: Wang Zhouzhou , Chen Yiqing , Sheng Bowen , Li Jinglin , Yao Lin , Yu Ying , Song Jun , Yu Tianqi , Li Yixin , Pan Hu , Wang Ping , Wang Xinqiang , Zhu Lei , Zhou Baowen
Published: February 2024

Light‐driven hydrogen production from biomass derivatives offers a path towards carbon neutrality. It is often however operated with the limitations of sluggish kinetics and severe coking. Herein, a disruptive air‐promoted strategy is explored for efficient and durable light‐driven hydrogen production from ethanol over a core/shell Cr2O3@GaN nanoarchitecture. The correlative computational and experimental investigations show ethanol is energetically favorable to be adsorbed on the Cr2O3@GaN interface, followed by dehydrogenation toward acetaldehyde and protons by photoexcited holes. The released protons are then consumed for H2 evolution by photogenerated electrons. Afterward, O2 can be evolved into active oxygen species and promote the deprotonation and C−C cleavage of the key C2 intermediate, thus significantly lowering the reaction energy barrier of hydrogen evolution and removing the carbon residual with inhibited overoxidation. Consequently, hydrogen is produced at a high rate of 76.9 mole H2 per gram Cr2O3@GaN per hour by only feeding ethanol, air, and light, leading to the achievement of a turnover number of 266,943,000 mole H2 per mole Cr2O3 over a long‐term operation of 180 hours. Notably, an unprecedented light‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of 17.6 % is achieved under concentrated light illumination. The simultaneous generation of aldehyde from ethanol dehydrogenation enables the process more economically promising.
Nucleophiles realizing the reduction of ZnO content for vulcanization accompanied by the improvement in thermo‐oxidative resistance for vulcanized isoprene rubbers
Authors: Xie Wei‐Lin , Hou Zhao‐Bo , Liu Gui‐Xiang , Liao Shuangquan , Luo Ming‐Chao
Published: February 2024

At present, vulcanization is an indispensable process in rubber industries and ZnO is an important ingredient in vulcanization reactions. However, ZnO is toxic to aquatic organisms and the use of ZnO is unfavorable to the sustainable development of rubber industry. The decrease of ZnO content without the reduction in properties of rubbers has been an open question in rubber industries. In this work, our group designs nucleophiles with an ability to open the ring of sulfur. With the decrease of ZnO content, the addition of nucleophiles maintains the ring‐opening capacity of sulfur. As a result, changes in several properties of rubbers such as tensile strength, tear strength, and crosslinking density are negligible with the reduction of ZnO content. Also, the thermo‐oxidative resistance of rubbers improves dramatically with the decrease of ZnO content and addition of nucleophiles. Through designing nucleophiles to reduce the content of ZnO, this work provides a strategy to develop sustainable rubber industries.
Hsa_circ_0001480 affects osteosarcoma progression by regulating the miR‐363‐3p/IBSP pathway
Authors: Bi Guijuan , Zhang Li
Published: February 2024

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone tumor that commonly affects young individuals. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are associated with OS progression. In this study, we aimed to determine the role of hsa_circ_0001480 (circ_0001480) in OS development. OS cell invasion, viability, and colony numbers were assessed via transwell, cell counting kit‐8, and colony formation assays, respectively. Tumor growth in vivo was also assessed using an OS mouse model. Additionally, targeted associations among the integrin‐binding sialoprotein (IBSP), microRNA (miR)‐363‐3p, and circ_0001480 were evaluated via RNA immunoprecipitation and dual luciferase reporter assays, whereas their expression levels in OS cells and tissues were determined via quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Loss of circ_0001480 or IBSP significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasion of OS cells, but this effect was reversed by miR‐363‐3p downregulation. Moreover, circ_0001480 knockdown inhibited neoplasm growth in vivo. circ_0001480 directly bound to miR‐363‐3p, which further modulated IBSP. Both circ_0001480 and IBSP levels were high, whereas miR‐363‐3p levels were low in OS cells. Furthermore, low miR‐363‐3p levels attenuated the suppressive effects of circ_0001480 silencing on the proliferation and invasion of OS cells; however, loss of IBSP partially reversed these effects. Overall, our findings revealed circ_0001480 an oncogenic circRNA stimulating OS progression by modulating the miR‐363‐3p/IBSP pathway, suggesting its potential for OS treatment.
Electron Transfer Kinetics at Single‐Layer Graphene/Ionic Liquid Interfaces
Authors: Liu Shuai , Pignol Guilhem , Lagrost Corinne , Mao Bingwei , Yan Jiawei , Hapiot Philippe
Published: February 2024

Electron transfer kinetics at the single‐layer graphene/ionic liquids interfaces have been examined for different common imidazolium‐based ionic liquids and ferrocene derivatives. The heterogeneous kinetics are characterized by slow standard charge transfer rates and an unusual low variation of the rate with the applied potential corresponding to charge transfer coefficients lower than 0.1. This behavior is specific to the electrochemistry on a single‐layer graphene as we found that the oxidation of the same substituted ferrocenes in the same ionic liquids follows the classical behavior predicted by the Butler‐Volmer law.
Boosting overall saline water splitting by constructing a strain‐engineered high‐entropy electrocatalyst
Authors: Bao Ateer , Gu Yaohang , Zhang Yuxuan , Zhang Bowen , Wu Juncheng , Ni Bo , Zhang Xiaoyan , Pan Haijun , Qi Xiwei
Published: February 2024

High‐entropy materials (HEMs), which are newly manufactured compounds that contain five or more metal cations, can be a platform with desired properties, including improved electrocatalytic performance owing to the inherent complexity. Here, a strain engineering methodology is proposed to design transition‐metal‐based HEM by Li manipulation (LiTM) with tunable lattice strain, thus tailoring the electronic structure and boosting electrocatalytic performance. As confirmed by the experiments and calculation results, tensile strain in the LiTM after Li manipulation can optimize the d‐band center and increase the electrical conductivity. Accordingly, the as‐prepared LiTM‐25 demonstrates optimized oxygen evolution reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction activity in alkaline saline water, requiring ultralow overpotentials of 265 and 42 mV at 10 mA cm−2, respectively. More strikingly, LiTM‐25 retains 94.6% activity after 80 h of a durability test when assembled as an anion‐exchange membrane water electrolyzer. Finally, in order to show the general efficacy of strain engineering, we incorporate Li into electrocatalysts with higher entropies as well.
Recent Progresses and Challenges in Upcycling of Plastics through Selective Catalytic Oxidation
Authors: Wang Kaili , Yuan Fan , Huang Lei
Published: February 2024

Chemical upcycling of plastics provides an important direction for solving the challenging issues of plastic pollution and mitigating the wastage of carbon resources. Among them, catalytic oxidative cracking of plastics to produce high–value chemicals, such as catalytic oxidation of polyethylene (PE) to produce fatty dicarboxylic acids, catalytic oxidation of polystyrene (PS) to produce benzoic acid, and catalytic oxidation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to produce terephthalic acid under mild conditions has attracted increasing attention, and some exciting progress has been made recently. In this article, we will review recent progresses on the catalytic oxidation upcycling of plastics and provide our understanding on the current challenges in catalytic oxidation upcycling of plastics.
Designing Low Toxic Deep Eutectic Solvents for the Green Recycle of Lithium‐Ion Batteries Cathodes
Authors: Li Yilin , Sun Mingjie , Cao Yanbo , Yu Keying , Fan Zixuan , Cao Yuanyuan
Published: February 2024

The Lithium‐ion battery (LIB) is one of the main energy storage equipment. Its cathode material contains Li, Co, and other valuable metals. Therefore, recycling spent LIBs can reduce environmental pollution and resource waste, which is significant for sustainable development. However, traditional metallurgical methods are not environmentally friendly, with high cost and environmental toxicity. Recently, the concept of green chemistry gives rise to environmental and efficient recycling technology, which promotes the transition of recycling solvents from organic solvents to green solvents represented by deep eutectic solvents (DESs). DESs are considered as ideal alternative solvents in extraction processes, attracting great attention due to their low cost, low toxicity, good biodegradability, and high extraction capacity. It is very important to develop the DESs system for LIBs recycling for sustainable development of energy and green economic development of recycling technology. In this work, the applications and research progress of DESs in LIBs recovery are reviewed, and the physicochemical properties such as viscosity, toxicity and regulatory properties are summarized and discussed. In particular, the toxicity data of DESs are collected and analyzed. Finally, the guidance and prospects for future research are put forward, aiming to explore more suitable DESs for recycling valuable metals in batteries.
Enhancing grid‐connected solar PV systems with a novel three‐phase hybrid multilevel inverter
Authors: Pushparaj Nirmal Kumar , Nattamai Balasubramanian Prakash
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a novel three‐phase hybrid multilevel inverter (TPHMLI) designed for grid‐connected solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems. The TPHMLI combines series‐connected bridge topologies of half and full circuits to generate 11 stages of line load voltages, reducing the need for DC sources. It also introduces an improved pulse width modulation (PWM) approach, addressing computational challenges and high‐frequency triggering issues. Practical validation in a laboratory setting demonstrates the MLI's functionality and effectiveness. Furthermore, the advanced MLI topology successfully addresses design issues in grid‐integrated SPV structures, including power quality, efficiency, and reliability. It excels in managing reactive power and fault obstructive capabilities. Extensive simulations using MATLAB/Simulink confirm its superior performance, making it a promising solution for power conditioning units in grid‐connected solar PV systems. This research contributes to clean and sustainable energy conversion technologies, enhancing power quality and cost‐effectiveness, with significant potential for practical applications in the renewable energy sector.
Machine‐learning algorithms in screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus: Data from Fasa Adults Cohort Study
Authors: Karmand Hanieh , Andishgar Aref , Tabrizi Reza , Sadeghi Alireza , Pezeshki Babak , Ravankhah Mahdi , Taherifard Erfan , Ahmadizar Fariba
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The application of machine learning (ML) is increasingly growing in biomedical sciences. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and compare the performance of ML methods in identifying individuals with the disease in an Iranian setting.

Methods

Using the baseline data from Fasa Adult Cohort Study (FACS) and in a sex‐stratified manner, we studied factors associated with T2DM by applying seven different ML methods including Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), K‐Nearest Neighbours (KNN), Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) and Bagging classifier (BAG). We further compared the performance of these methods; for each algorithm, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, and Area Under Curve (AUC) were calculated.

Results

10,112 participants were recruited between 2014 and 2016, of whom 1246 had T2DM at baseline. 4566 (45%) participants were males, aged between 35 and 70 years. For males, age, sugar consumption, and history of hospitalization were the most weighted variables regarding their importance in screening for T2DM using the GBM model, respectively; these variables were sugar consumption, urine blood, and age for females. GBM outperformed other models for both males and females with AUC of 0.75 (0.69–0.82) and 0.76 (0.71–0.80), and F1 score of 0.33 (0.27–0.39) and 0.42 (0.38–0.46), respectively. GBM also showed a sensitivity of 0.24 (0.19–0.29) and a specificity of 0.98 (0.96–1.0) in males and a sensitivity of 0.38 (0.34–0.42) and specificity of 0.92 (0.89–0.95) in females. Notably, close performance characteristics were detected among other ML models.

Conclusions

GBM model might achieve better performance in screening for T2DM in a south Iranian population.
A forecasting model for oil prices using a large set of economic indicators
Authors: El Hokayem Jihad , Jamali Ibrahim , Hejase Ale
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the predictability of the changes in Brent oil futures prices using a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network that exploits the information contained in the largest possible set of economic indicators. Feature engineering is employed to identify the most important predictors of the change in Brent oil futures prices. We find that oil‐market‐specific variables are important predictors. Our findings also suggest that forecasts of the change in the Brent oil futures prices from the multilayer perceptron that exploits the informational content of all and oil‐market‐specific predictors exhibit higher statistical forecast accuracy than the random walk. Tests of forecast optimality indicate that the forecasts generated using oil‐market‐specific predictors are optimal. We discuss the policymaking and practical relevance of our results.
Risk disclosures in annual reports and firms’ default risk
Authors: Jin Shunyao , Lee Hei‐Wai , Xie Yan Alice
Published: February 2024

This study examines how the length, content, and tone attributes of risk disclosures in a firm's 10‐K annual report relate to its default risk in the subsequent fiscal year. We find a significant association between specific attributes of risk disclosures and the default risk in the subsequent period. Using the 2008 financial crisis as a shock to firms’ risk environment, we further find that the documented association is more pronounced in the post‐financial crisis era. Our cross‐sectional analyses reveal that the documented relationship is particularly prominent for firms undergoing substantial shifts in default risk, facing significant financial distress, operating in industries with lower litigation risk, or subject to heightened scrutiny from external monitors. Overall, our findings suggest that risk disclosures in firms’ annual reports offer valuable insights for investors assessing financial distress and default risk.
New phosphorus losses via tile drainage depend on fertilizer form, placement, and timing
Authors: Osterholz William , Simpson Zach , Williams Mark , Shedekar Vinayak , Penn Chad , King Kevin
Published: February 2024

Agricultural phosphorus (P) losses are harmful to water quality, but knowledge gaps about the importance of fertilizer management practices on new (recently applied) sources of P may limit P loss mitigation efforts. Weighted regression models applied to subsurface tile drainage water quality data enabled estimating the new P losses associated with 155 P applications in Ohio and Indiana, USA. Daily discharge and dissolved reactive P (DRP) and total P (TP) loads were used to detect increases in P loss following each application which was considered new P. The magnitude of new P losses was small relative to fertilizer application rates, averaging 79.3 g DRP ha−1 and 96.1 g TP ha−1, or <3% of P applied. The eight largest new P losses surpassed 330 g DRP ha−1 or 575 g TP ha−1. New P loss mitigation strategies should focus on broadcast liquid manure applications; on average, manure applications caused greater new P losses than inorganic fertilizers, and surface broadcast applications were associated with greater new P losses than injected or incorporated applications. Late fall applications risked having large new P losses applications. On an annual basis, new P contributed an average of 14% of DRP and 5% of TP losses from tile drains, which is much less than previous studies that included surface runoff, suggesting that tile drainage is relatively buffered with regard to new P losses. Therefore old (preexisting soil P) P sources dominated tile drain P losses, and P loss reduction efforts will need to address this source.
Ultrasound images of the ascending aorta of anesthetized northern fur seals and Steller sea lions confirm that the aortic bulb maintains continuous blood flow
Authors: Storlund Rhea L. , Rosen David A. S. , Haulena Martin , Sanatani Shubhayan , Vander Zaag Jessica , Trites Andrew W.
Published: February 2024

The increased size and enhanced compliance of the aortic bulb—the enlargement of the ascending aorta—are believed to maintain blood flow in pinnipeds during extended periods of diastole induced by diving bradycardia. The aortic bulb has been described ex vivo in several species of pinnipeds, but in vivo measurements are needed to investigate the relationship between structure and function. We obtained ultrasound images using electrocardiogram‐gated transesophageal echocardiography during anesthesia and after atropine administration to assess the relationship between aortic bulb anatomy and cardiac function (heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output) in northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) and Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus). We observed that the aortic bulb in northern fur seals and Steller sea lions expands during systole and recoils over the entire diastolic period indicating that blood flow is maintained throughout the entire cardiac cycle as expected. The stroke volumes we measured in the fur seals and sea lions fit the values predicted based on body size in mammals and did not change with increased heart rates, suggesting that greater stroke volumes are not needed for aortic bulb function. Overall, our results suggest that peripheral vasoconstriction during diving is sufficient to modulate the volume of blood in the aortic bulb to ensure that flow lasts over the entire diastolic period. These results indicate that the shift of blood into the aortic bulb of pinnipeds is a fundamental mechanism caused by vasoconstriction while diving, highlighting the importance of this unique anatomical adaptation.