bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of 3‐month follow‐up of patients with postacute COVID‐19 syndrome
Authors: Kerget Buğra , Çelik Eda , Kerget Ferhan , Aksakal Alperen , Uçar Elif Yılmazel , Araz Ömer , Akgün Metin
Published: January 2022

In addition to the highly variable clinical presentation of acute COVID‐19 infection, it can also cause various postacute signs and symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate patients with postacute COVID‐19 over 12 weeks of follow‐up. The study included 151 patients who were diagnosed with COVID‐19 by real‐time polymerase chain reaction of a nasopharyngeal swab 1 month earlier, had radiologic findings consistent with COVID‐19 pneumonia, and presented to the post‐COVID‐19 outpatient clinic between May and August 2021. The patients were divided into three groups based on COVID‐19 severity: nonsevere pneumonia (Group 1), severe pneumonia (Group 2), and severe pneumonia requiring intensive care (Group 3). Evaluation of laboratory parameters at 4 and 12 weeks showed that Group 3 had a higher lactose dehydrogenase (LDH) level and a lower mean platelet volume than the other groups at both time points (p = 0.001 for all). Group 3 also had lower percent predicted forced vital capacity (FVC%), percent predicted forced expiration volume in 1 s (FEV1%), and percent predicted diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide divided by alveolar volume (DLCO/VA%) compared to Groups 1 and 2 at Week 4 (p = 0.001, 0.004, 0.001, respectively) and compared to Group 1 at 12 weeks (p = 0.002, 0.03, 0.001, respectively). Patients with persistent dyspnea at 12 weeks had significantly lower FEV1%, FVC%, DLCO/VA%, and saturation levels in room air and significantly higher LDH, pro‐BNP, D‐dimer, and heart rate compared to those without dyspnea (p = 0.001 for all). Although the lungs are most commonly affected after COVID‐19 infection, vascular and endothelial damage also causes multisystem involvement. Our study indicates that laboratory values, radiological signs, and pulmonary functional capacity improved in most patients after 12 weeks of follow‐up.
Associations of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes and related risk factors in a cohort of women living with HIV in a Brazilian countryside city
Authors: Kury Charbell M. H. , Guimaraes Gabriela R. , Leandro Cinthia G. , Fernandes Lorena A. , Silva Paulo Ricardo T. , M. B. Petraglia Tania Cristina , Cruz Oswaldo G. , da Costa Carneiro Rodrigo , Cavalcanti Silvia M. B.
Published: January 2022

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with cervical abnormalities. People living with HIV are more susceptible to HPV. Campos dos Goytacazes implemented the quadrivalent HPV vaccine (4vHPV) for women living with HIV (WLWH) in 2011, 4 years before the Brazilian public vaccination program. We aimed to characterize the genomic diversity and predictors of HPV infection in WLWH through a prospective cohort study. After the consent form was received, a questionnaire was applied and an endocervical sample was collected. For genotyping, a microarray HPV technique was performed. Two intervention moments were performed: T1, the initial moment, with collection and vaccination; T2 moment, 2 years after T1. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The T1 moment cohort was formed by 146 women,107 belonging to Group 1(HPV‐negative) and 39 to Group 2 (HPV‐positive). The variables age, marital status, number of children, number of sexual partners, and CD4 count were protective against HPV. The variables number of sexual partners, marital status, and the number of children lost significance in multivariate analysis. Concerning T2 moment, 42 patients were followed with three positive cases. The use of 4vHPV is beneficial for this population and should also be recommended at an age from 26 to 45 years inside the public vaccination program.
Generation, characterization, and protective ability of mouse monoclonal antibodies against the HA of A (H1N1) influenza virus
Authors: Wang Liyan , Yang Fan , Xiao Yixin , Chen Bin , Liu Fumin , Cheng Linfang , Yao Hangping , Wu Nanping , Wu Haibo
Published: January 2022

Influenza virus infections pose a continuous threat to human health. Although vaccines function as a preventive and protective tool, they may not be effective due to antigen drift or an inaccurate prediction of epidemic strains. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have attracted wide attention as a promising therapeutic method for influenza virus infections. In this study, three hemagglutinin (HA)‐specific mAbs, named 2A1, 2H4, and 2G2, respectively, were derived from mice immunized with the HA protein from A/Michigan/45/2015(H1N1). The isolated mAbs all displayed hemagglutination inhibition activity and the 2G2 mAb exhibited the strongest neutralization effect. Two amino acid mutations (A198E and G173E), recognized in the process of selection of mAb‐resistant mutants, were located in antigenic site Sb and Ca1, respectively. In prophylactic experiments, all three mAbs could achieve 100% protection in mice infected with a lethal dose of A/Michigan/45/2015(H1N1). A dose of 1 mg/kg for 2H4 and 2G2 was sufficient to achieve a full protective effect. Therapeutic experiments showed that all three mAbs could protect mice from death if they received the mAb administration at 6 h postinfection, and 2G2 was still protective after 24 h. Our findings indicate that these three mAbs may have potential prevention and treatment value in an H1N1 epidemic, as well as in the study of antigen epitope recognition.
Married women's career orientation and life satisfaction: Role of self‐efficacy
Authors: Yang Xinfeng , Choi Byoung Kwon
Published: January 2022

This study conducts an in‐depth exploration of the ways career orientation is related to life satisfaction by considering job satisfaction as a mediator and self‐efficacy as a moderator. The study sample comprised 204 married women employees recruited in China through a self‐reported survey. We found that married women employees’ career orientation was positively related to life satisfaction through job satisfaction, and such an indirect influence was significant when they possessed high levels of self‐efficacy. The current research contributes to the collective understanding regarding how and when married women employees’ career orientation results in life satisfaction.
In vitro and in vivo effects of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus on nucleus pulposus cell senescence
Authors: Jiang Zengxin , Jiang Chang , Jin Lixia , Chen Zixian , Feng Zhenzhou , Jiang Xiaoxing , Cao Yuanwu
Published: January 2022

Diabetes mellitus contributes to intervertebral disc degeneration. Nucleus pulposus cell senescence plays an important role in intervertebral disc degeneration. However, the effects of hyperglycemia on human nucleus pulposus cells and the underlying process remains poorly understood. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of high glucose levels on human nucleus pulposus cell senescence in vitro and the effects of hyperglycemia on rat nucleus pulposus aging in vivo. Human nucleus pulposus cells were cultured in high‐glucose medium (200 mM glucose) for 48 h. Senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase staining, western blot analysis, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were performed to evaluate human nucleus pulposus cell senescence. Flow cytometry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were used to evaluate reactive oxygen species and advanced glycation end‐product levels. Transcriptome sequencing followed by bioinformatics analysis was used to understand the abnormal biological processes of nucleus pulposus cells cultured in high‐glucose medium. Diabetes mellitus rat models were established and histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis was conducted to examine nucleus pulposus tissue senescence in vivo. Exposure to a high glucose concentration promoted human nucleus pulposus cell senescence and increased the senescence‐related secretion phenotype in human nucleus pulposus cells in vitro and in rat nucleus pulposus tissue in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis showed that hub genes were involved in nucleus pulposus cell cycle activities and cell senescence. The results suggest that appropriate blood glucose control may be key to preventing intervertebral disc degeneration in diabetic patients.
Knee symptoms do not affect walking biomechanics among women 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Collins Katherine , Fajardo Ryan , Harkey Matthew , Knake Jeffrey , Lisee Caroline , Wilcox Luke , Tasco Jamie , Kuenze Christopher
Published: January 2022

Women with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction report worse pain and knee‐related symptoms, and also exhibit biomechanical changes that may be related to knee osteoarthritis (OA) development. This is particularly concerning as symptom state has been previously associated with knee OA development. The purpose of this study was to compare lower extremity walking biomechanics between women (age: 21.40 ± 8.54 years) experiencing clinically significant knee‐related symptoms and women with acceptable symptoms 6 months following surgery. Twenty‐eight women with history of primary, unilateral anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction who completed a lower extremity walking biomechanics assessment 6 months following surgery were included in this analysis. Women were dichotomized as experiencing acceptable or clinically significant knee symptoms according to Knee injury and OA Outcomes Score cut‐offs described by Englund et al. Walking biomechanics were compared between women with clinically significant and acceptable symptoms using one‐way analysis of covariances for involved limb biomechanics. Biomechanical variables of interest were: peak vertical ground reaction forces (vGRFs), vGRF loading rates, knee flexion angles, knee extension moments, knee adduction angles, and knee adduction moments, and gait speed. Nearly 60% of women reported clinically significant knee symptoms 6 months postoperative. There were no statistically significant differences between symptom groups for walking biomechanics and gait speed outcomes. These findings suggest patient reported knee symptoms may not be a primary influence on walking biomechanics 6 months following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Though, longitudinal assessment of changes in symptom state and walking biomechanics may be warranted as poorer walking biomechanics and symptoms are indicators of knee OA.
Intraoperative angiography imaging correlates with wound complications following soft tissue sarcoma resection
Authors: Lazarides Alexander L. , Saltzman Eliana B. , Visgauss Julia D. , Mithani Suhail K. , Eward William C. , Brigman Brian E.
Published: January 2022

For soft tissue sarcoma patients receiving preoperative radiation therapy, wound complications are common and potentially devastating. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescent angiography (ICGA) as a predictor of wound complications in these patients. A consecutive series of patients with soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities or pelvis who received neoadjuvant radiation and a subsequent radical resection received intraoperative ICGA with the SPY PHI device (Stryker Inc.) at the time of closure. Retrospective analysis of fluorescence signal along multiple points of the wound length was performed and quantified. The primary endpoint was wound complication, defined as delayed wound healing or wound dehiscence, within 3 months of surgery. Fourteen patients with preoperative irradiated soft tissue sarcoma were consecutively imaged. There were six patients with wound complications classified as “aseptic” in five cases. Using the ICGA, blinded surgeons correctly predicted wound complications in 75% of cases. During the inflow phase, a mean ratio of normal of 0.62 maximized the area under the curve (AUC = 0.90) for predicting wound complications with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 77.4%. During the peak phase, a mean ratio of normal of 0.55 maximized the AUC (0.95) for predicting wound complications with a sensitivity of 88.9% and a specificity of 100%. Intraoperative use of ICGA may help to predict wound complications in patients undergoing resection of preoperatively irradiated soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities and pelvis.
Biocompatible Composite Microspheres of Chitin/Ordered Mesoporous Carbon CMK3 for Bilirubin Adsorption and Cell Microcarrier Culture
Authors: Yue Pengpeng , Chen Biao , Lv Xiaoyan , Zou Yongkang , Cao Hankun , Ma Yongsheng , Wang Lizhe , Liu Zhongzhong , Zheng Yiran , Duan Bo , Wu Shuangquan , Ye Qifa
Published: January 2022

Extra bilirubin in the blood can provoke serious illness in patients with severe liver disease. Hemoperfusion is an effective method to remove the extra bilirubin, but its application is limited by the low adsorption efficiency and poor biocompatibility of available adsorbent materials. In this study, chitin/ordered mesoporous carbon CMK3 (Ch/CMK3) microspheres are successfully prepared. Results of characterization experiments indicated that these composite microspheres possess a multilayered porous nanofibrous structure with an extremely large specific surface area (300.19 m2 g−1) and large pore size. Notably, the Ch/CMK3 microspheres demonstrated a high bilirubin adsorption capacity (228.19 mg g−1) in phosphate buffer solution (PBS), and an outstanding bilirubin removal ratio (76.78% ± 4.40%) in the plasma of rabbits with hyperbilirubinemia without affecting the protein components. More importantly, the Ch/CMK3 microspheres showed no effect on other blood components, no cytotoxicity, and no systemic toxicity to mice. Cell co‐culture experiments revealed that the microspheres can provide a 3‐dimensional (3D) space to promote cell adhesion, proliferation, and nutrient exchange. These Ch/CMK3 microspheres featuring a strong ability for bilirubin adsorption and good biocompatibility can be a promising candidate in biomedical applications such as hemoperfusion, cell microcarrier, and 3D tissue engineering.
Leveraging redundancy in simultaneous multislice acquisitions to improve spike detection
Authors: Sidhu Jagjit Singh , Sakaie Ken , Shin Wanyong , Lowe Mark
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To improve the performance of low‐level spike noise artifact detection for daily quality assurance protocols by taking advantage of redundancy in simultaneous multislice (SMS) acquisitions.

Methods

Magnitude images were transformed into pseudo k‐space images. Time series at each pseudo k‐space point were detrended. A slice was determined to contain spiking artifact if it exceeded an intensity threshold and if all simultaneously acquired slices contained outliers.

Results

A total of 401 112 slices were inspected. Of these, 42 showed a spike artifact, based on visual inspection of image data and k‐space data. With an intensity threshold of 4.6 SDs over time for each pseudo k‐space point, all slices containing artifact were correctly flagged, and only 30 slices were incorrectly flagged when using the SMS criterion. Without the SMS criterion, 12 908 slices were incorrectly flagged as containing artifact. Without the SMS criterion, sensitivity to artifact would have to be sacrificed to substantially reduce the number of incorrectly flagged slices.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the SMS criterion reduced the number of outliers reported to a manageable level while accurately identifying low‐level spike artifacts. Successfully identifying low‐level spikes allows early detection of hardware problems that can be fixed before the problem becomes debilitating and corrupts data. As part of a daily quality assurance protocol, the method prevents the need to retrospectively carry out time‐intensive despiking and reanalysis of data.
A k‐means clustering machine learning‐based multiscale method for anelastic heterogeneous structures with internal variables
Authors: Benaimeche Mohamed Amine , Yvonnet Julien , Bary Benoit , He Qi‐Chang
Published: January 2022

A new machine‐learning based multiscale method, called k‐means FE, is introduced to solve general nonlinear multiscale problems with internal variables and loading history‐dependent behaviors, without use of surrogate models. The macro scale problem is reduced by constructing clusters of Gauss points in a structure which are estimated to be in the same mechanical state. A k‐means clustering—machine learning technique is employed to select the Gauss points based on their strain state and sets of internal variables. Then, for all Gauss points in a cluster, only one micro nonlinear problem is solved, and its response is transferred to all integration points of the cluster in terms of mechanical properties. The solution converges with respect to the number of clusters, which is weakly depends on the number of macro mesh elements. Accelerations of FE calculations up to a factor 50 are observed in typical applications. Arbitrary nonlinear behaviors including internal variables can be considered at the micro level. The method is applied to heterogeneous structures with local quasi‐brittle and elastoplastic behaviors and, in particular, to a nuclear waste package structure subject to internal expansions.
Tetraglycidyl ether 1.1.2.2‐tetraphenyl ethane epoxy resin modified by carbon nanotubes
Authors: Zhou Jun , Lei Yi
Published: January 2022

Usually, the reinforcing effect of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in a polymer is related to the properties of the matrix and its dispersion in the matrix. In this paper, the modification effect of CNTs on high performance tetraglycidyl ether 1.1.2.2‐tetraphenyl ethane epoxy resin (TGETPE) was studied. CNTs grafted with amino groups (N‐CNTs) were used to react with DGEBA to form a well dispersed CNTs / epoxy resin mixture (E‐CNTs), and then E‐CNTs were added to TGETPE/methyl tetrahydrophthalic anhydride (MeTHPA) to form a E‐CNTs‐reinforced TGETPE composites. The effect of different content of E‐CNTs on TGETPE/MeTHPA cured resin was studied. With an increase in content of E‐CNTs, the mechanical properties of the cured sample first increase and then decrease. At E‐CNT contents of 0.4 and 0.6 wt%, the tensile strength and bending strength of the composites increased by 39% and 34%, respectively. Young's modulus of the cured composite increases with the addition of E‐CNTs. In addition, the addition of E‐CNTs can improve the thermal properties of the cured sample.
Regulated acrylate networks as tough photocurable materials for additive manufacturing
Authors: Kury Markus , Ehrmann Katharina , Gorsche Christian , Dorfinger Peter , Koch Thomas , Stampfl Jürgen , Liska Robert
Published: January 2022

In lithography‐based additive manufacturing, mostly crosslinking monomers with acrylate functionality are applied, which yield brittle materials with inhomogeneous network architectures. The toughening of state‐of‐the‐art materials is an integral requirement for the advancement of photopolymer‐based three‐dimensional (3D) products. Here we show that the final material properties of acrylate networks can be adjusted through regulation of the radical curing mechanism using difunctional vinyl sulfonate esters to obtain toughened 3D structured materials. A substantial improvement of the thermomechanical behavior of resulting materials over materials regulated by state‐of‐the‐art reagents (e.g. thiols) is presented and first 3D parts have successfully been printed. Resulting materials exhibit reduced shrinkage stress, reduced warpage, higher overall conversion and higher glass transition temperatures compared with the pure acrylate network. © 2022 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Leaf coordination between petiole vascular development and water demand in response to elevated CO2 in tomato plants
Authors: Cohen Itay , Lichston Juliana Espada , de Macêdo Cristiane Elizabeth Costa , Rachmilevitch Shimon
Published: January 2022

The rise in atmospheric CO2 has a profound impact on plants physiology and performance. Stomatal gas exchange such as reduction in water loss via transpiration and higher photosynthetic rates are among the key plant physiological traits altered by the increase of CO2. Water acquired in plant roots is transported via the xylem vessels to the shoots. Under conditions of elevated CO2, water flux decreases due to higher water use efficiency and a decline in stomatal conductance. However, the mechanism by which the shoot vascular development is affected under elevated CO2 is still largely unclear in herbaceous crops. In the current study, tomato plants were exposed to either 400 or 800 ppm of CO2 and were analyzed for growth, leaf area, gas exchange rate, and petiole anatomy. Elevated CO2 caused a reduction in metaxylem vessel diameter, which in turn, decreased leaf theatrical conductivity by 400% as compared with plants grown under ambient CO2. This work links anatomical changes in the petioles to the rise in atmospheric CO2 and water use. Plant water demand declined under elevated CO2, while photosynthesis increased. Thus, the decrease in leaf specific conductivity was attributed to lower water consumption in leaf gas exchange and, by extension, to higher leaf water use efficiency. As the global climate changes and water scarcity becomes more common, such anatomical alterations caused by elevated CO2 may affect plant response to water limitation. Further research on petiole anatomical alterations under conditions of combined climate change factors such as drought and heat with elevated CO2 may assist in clarifying the responses expected by future climate scenarios.
Genotypic differences in response of durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) to lime‐induced iron chlorosis
Authors: Salhi Khaled , Hajlaoui Hichem , Krouma Abdelmajid
Published: January 2022

Wheat, durum wheat, is the first cereal cultivated and consumed in Tunisia. Because the dominance of calcareous soils in its agroecological systems, known by their low availability of iron (Fe) inducing Fe chlorosis and limiting crop production, its yield remains low. Therefore, the search for tolerant genotypes is always current. In this context, the physiological behavior of six Tunisian genotypes of durum wheat (salim, karim, razek, khiar, inrat100, and maali) cultivated on calcareous and fertile soils for 2 months in a pot experiment was investigated. A greenhouse was used to conduct experiments under natural light. Plant growth, SPAD index, Fe nutrition, Fe distribution, and photosynthesis were monitored and used to evaluate and discriminate their respective physiological responses. On calcareous soil, results revealed reduced plant growth, active Fe, SPAD index, and net photosynthesis. Genotypic differences in the response of wheat to calcareous‐induced Fe deficiency were observed and allowed to classify the genotypes Salim and Karim as relatively tolerant. These genotypes expressed Fe translocation capacity (FeT) up to 3 times, Fe use efficiency for photosynthesis (FeUEAn) up to 1.6 times, and chlorophyll use efficiency for photosynthesis (ChlUEAn) up to 3.5 times greater than that expressed by the other genotypes, particularly inrat100 and maali. Thus, the relative tolerance of Salim and Karim is the result of the high ability of Fe uptake and translocation to shoots to support chlorophyll biosynthesis, photosynthesis, and plant growth as well as an important Fe and chlorophyll use efficiency.
Manning condensation in ion exchange membranes: A review on ion partitioning and diffusion models
Authors: Kitto David , Kamcev Jovan
Published: January 2022

The rational design of ion exchange membranes (IEMs) is becoming more pertinent as their usage becomes broader and as their staple applications (i.e., electrodialysis, flow batteries, and fuel cells) improve in commercial viability. Such efforts would be catalyzed by an improved fundamental understanding of ion transport in IEMs. This review discusses recent progress in modeling ion partitioning and diffusion in IEMs in an effort to relate IEM performance metrics to fundamental membrane properties over which researchers and membrane manufacturers possess direct and sometimes precise control. Central focus is given to the Donnan‐Manning model for ion partitioning and the Manning‐Meares model for ion diffusion in IEMs. These two frameworks, which are derived from Manning's counter‐ion condensation theory for polyelectrolyte solutions, have been widely used within the IEM literature since their recent introduction. To explore this topic, the mathematical derivation of both models is revisited, followed by a survey of experimental and computational discussions of counter‐ion condensation in IEMs. Alternative models which fulfill similar roles in predicting IEM transport properties are compared. This review concludes by highlighting the uniquely favorable positions of the Donnan‐Manning and Manning‐Meares models and discussing their prospects as leading predictors of IEM partitioning and diffusive properties.
Psychological and sexual distress in rectal cancer patients and partners
Authors: Acquati Chiara , Hendren Samantha , Wittmann Daniela , Reese Jennifer Barsky , Karam Eli , Duby Ashley , Dunn Kelli Bullard , Kayser Karen
Published: January 2022

Background

Rectal cancer (RC) patients experience unique sources of distress, including sexual dysfunction and body image concerns, which can also cause distress among partners. This preliminary study investigated patterns of psychological distress, sexual functioning, sexual distress, and relationship satisfaction among RC patient‐partner couples at pivotal points during cancer treatment.

Methods

Twenty couples participated (N = 40). Patients and partners completed a series of validated measures of psychological distress (ET), sexual functioning (FSFI; IIEF), sexual distress (GMSEX; Sexual Distress Scale) and relationship satisfaction (GMREL) at time of diagnosis, 3 weeks after radiation, 4 weeks post‐surgery, and after chemotherapy and surgery for ostomy closure. Descriptive statistics, t‐tests, and repeated‐measures ANOVA were used to analyze scores over time, first for patients and partners, and then by sex.

Results

Relationship satisfaction remained elevated over time. In this sample, 55% of patients and 78.9% of partners reported clinically significant rates of psychological distress at diagnosis, which decreased to 23% and 46% respectively at the last assessment. Sexual satisfaction and distress worsened for patients and partners between baseline and surgery for ostomy closure. Both male and female participants reported statistically significant declines in sexual function from baseline to end of treatment (p < 0.05).

Discussion

Relative to relationship satisfaction, psychological and sexual health outcomes seem more vulnerable to the effects of RC treatment during the first year after diagnosis, both for patients and partners and for men and women. Results support the need for psychosocial care and sexual education/counseling for couples coping with RC.
Structural insights on the effects of mutation of a charged binding pocket residue on phosphopeptide binding to 14‐3‐3ζ protein
Authors: T. S. Sreevidya , Dalvi Somavally , Venkatraman Prasanna , Vemparala Satyavani
Published: January 2022

Mutation of an invariant aspartate residue in the binding pocket of 14‐3‐3ζ isoform to alanine dramatically reduced phosphopeptide binding and induced opening of the binding pocket. Here we use extensive molecular dynamics simulations to understand the role of D124 residue in ligand binding. The simulations show that in the absence of phosphopeptide, the D124A mutation leads to binding pocket reorganization including widening up of the binding pocket at the major groove and repositioning of N173, a key residue that interacts with the main chain of phosphopeptide. These structural changes would interfere with the efficient binding of the peptide, corroborating the experimental observations. Both gain and loss of electrostatic interactions in the form of salt bridges strongly indicate a rearrangement of the network of interactions within the binding pocket. Limited proteolysis coupled mass spectrometry (lip‐MS) of the apo and holo forms of wild type (WT) and mutant protein shows a peptide binding helix otherwise buried in the WT protein was particularly accessible to trypsin in the apo form of the mutant protein and the region was mapped to 158–186 amino acid residues of 14‐3‐3ζ. These results further confirm the dynamic nature of D124A mutant. Unlike other basic residues, the invariant D124 facilitates peptide binding by maintaining the geometry of interacting residues and by enforcing the structural integrity of amphipathic pocket.
Corrosion behaviour of polymer‐laminated steel in sodium chloride solution
Authors: Hong Xiaomin , Chen Jinyang , Gu Jie , Yang Yunfan , Hu Yu , Yang Dingqing , Zhang Qing
Published: January 2022

The corrosion behaviour of polymer‐laminated steel in sodium chloride (NaCl) solution was studied. The iron migration amount was determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES). The result indicated that the migration of iron increased with time and a turning point occurred in 3 wt.% NaCl solution when polymer‐laminated steel cans containing NaCl solution soaked at different temperatures for 240 h. In addition, the changes of the PET/TiO2 composite film after soaking were analysed by the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The crystallinity of the composite film decreased, the porosity increased and the surface cracks formed. Moreover, the composition and morphology of the corrosion products were characterized by the X‐ray diffraction (XRD), SEM and EDS, indicating that the corrosion products were Fe3O4 and Fe2O3. Based on the results, a schematic diagram of the corrosion mechanism of polymer‐laminated steel cans was given.
The effects of polar solvents on structural, electronic, and optical properties of organic dyes
Authors: Majid Abdul , Kiran Saba , Sandhu Qurat‐ul‐Ain , Khan Salahuddin , Khan Shaukat
Published: January 2022

This study reports first principles investigations on effects of polar solvents acetonitrile, acetone, water, ethanol, and methanol on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of organic dyes named D1, D1A, D1B, and D1C. The solute‐solvent interaction studied via conductor like screening model revealed changes in structural parameters whereas dipole moment of all the dyes increased after immersing in the solvents. The relaxation of dyes structures in the solvents caused stabilization or destabilization of molecular orbitals which is responsible for spectral shifts in UV–visible absorption spectra. The absorbance and light harvesting efficiency of majority of dyes increased upon solvation which shows their suitability to use as sensitizer. The findings suggested that water is not a suitable solvent for the simulated dyes. The efficiency of solvated dyes D1, D1B, and D1C increased but that of D1B is decreased.
Pulmonary artery sarcoma: An important mimic of pulmonary embolism—Case reports and literature review
Authors: Tuft Colin , Maheepala Krishan , Raguparan Ajantha , Naeem Anas , Lodh Suhrid , Lindstrom Steven
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary artery intimal sarcoma (PAIS) is a rare malignancy which closely mimics acute or chronic pulmonary thromboembolism. There are clinical and radiological characteristics which may raise suspicion of this important differential diagnosis. These include disproportionately low d‐dimer, troponin T or NT‐proBNP, as well as characteristic findings on CT pulmonary angiography such as the ‘wall eclipsing sign’ and an non‐dependent position of filling defects in the large arteries. Prompt diagnosis avoids inappropriate anticoagulation and facilitates early surgical management which may improve prognosis. There is emerging evidence of an effective treatment paradigm with surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy. We present two cases of PAIS diagnosed at a single centre within a 2‐year period. We review the literature and demonstrate the features at presentation in our cases which were suggestive of the diagnosis.
Firms' potential for economic sustainability and firm value: The moderating role of blockholders
Authors: Kyaw Khine , Thomsen Steen , Treepongkaruna Sirimon
Published: January 2022

Firms that strive to innovate (i.e., firms that invest in research and development—R&D) have high potential for economic sustainability due to the possibility of generating new platforms of growth and future revenue. However, it is little understood whether financial markets incorporate (if at all) information on firms' potential for economic sustainability. After all, firms' information on R&D investments is very opaque. This poses a challenge to investors to incorporate into firm value any economic sustainability emanating from such information. We investigate whether blockholders, owners with at least a 5% shareholding in a firm, help reflect in firm value the firms' potential for economic sustainability. We find that active blockholders, rather than passive blockholders, help incorporate in firm value the potential for economic sustainability. Thus, active blockholders help mitigate agency problems in firms and help financial markets digest firms' potential for economic sustainability.
A structural analysis of ultrathin barrier (In)AlN/GaN heterostructures for GaN‐based high‐frequency power electronics
Authors: Narin Polat , Kutlu‐Narin Ece , Atmaca Gokhan , Sarikavak‐Lisesivdin Beyza , Lisesivdin Sefer B. , Ozbay Ekmel
Published: January 2022

Metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) is one of the best growth methods for GaN‐based materials as well‐known. GaN‐based materials with very quality are grown the MOCVD, so we used this growth technique to grow InAlN/GaN and AlN/GaN heterostructures in this study. The structural and surface properties of ultrathin barrier AlN/GaN and InAlN/GaN heterostructures are studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements. Screw, edge, and total dislocation densities for the grown samples have been calculated by using XRD results. The lowest dislocation density is found to be 1.69 × 108 cm−2 for Sample B with a lattice‐matched In0.17Al0.83N barrier. The crystal quality of the studied samples is determined using (002) symmetric and (102) asymmetric diffractions of the GaN material. In terms of the surface roughness, although reference sample has a lower value as 0.27 nm of root mean square values (RMS), Sample A with 4‐nm AlN barrier layer exhibits the highest rough surface as 1.52 nm of RMS. The structural quality of the studied samples is significantly affected by the barrier layer thickness. The obtained structural properties of the samples are very important for potential applications like high‐electron mobility transistors (HEMTs).
Mixture Phases Engineering of PtFe Nanofoams for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Shi Yue , Zhang Dan , Huang Hao , Miao Hongfu , Wu Xueke , Zhao Huan , Zhan Tianrong , Chen Xilei , Lai Jianping , Wang Lei
Published: January 2022

Phase engineering is a promising but challenging approach to construct PtFe‐based catalysts with efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance. Herein, the authors successfully synthesize PtFe nanofoams with face center cubic (fcc) phase, with simple cubic crystalline (scc) phase and with the mixture phases of fcc and scc phases (PtFe‐mix) by hydrogen‐assisted calcination for the first time. By benchmarking the HER activity, PtFe‐mix exhibits excellent activity in 1.0 m KOH, requiring an overpotential of 28 mV to achieve 10 mA cm−2, which is better than the commercial Pt/C (34 mV). PtFe‐mix also possesses remarkable stability up to 24 h. Density functional theory calculations further verify that PtFe‐mix shows a more suitable d‐band center and lower energy barrier for the initial water dissociation, facilitating the HER process. This work provides a meaningful strategy to design PtFe‐based catalysts with efficient activity for hydrogen evolution.
Creating Tunable Mesoporosity by Temperature‐Driven Localized Crystallite Agglomeration
Authors: Jeong Seok , Sim Youjung , Kim Jin Kyun , Shin Sunyoung , Lim Jaewoong , Seong Junmo , Lee Seonghwan , Moon Dohyun , Baek Seung Bin , Kim Chae Un , Ryu Ja‐Hyoung , Lah Myoung Soo
Published: January 2022

A new synthetic approach for tunable mesoporous metal–organic frameworks (MeMs) is developed. In this approach, mesopores are created in the process of heat conversion of highly mosaic metal–organic framework (MOF) crystals with non‐interpenetrated low‐density nanocrystallites into MOF crystals with two‐fold interpenetrated high‐density nanocrystallites. The two‐fold interpenetration reduces the volume of the nanocrystallites in the mosaic crystal, and the accompanying localized agglomeration of the nanocrystallites results in the formation of mesopores among the localized crystallite agglomerates. The pore size can be easily modulated from 7 to 90 nm by controlling the heat treatment conditions, that is, the aging temperature and aging time. Various proteins can be encapsulated in the MeM, and immobilized enzymes show catalyst activity comparable to that of the free native enzymes. Immobilized β‐galactosidase is recyclable and the enzyme activity of the immobilized catalase is maintained after exposure to high temperatures and various organic solvents.
A note on the convergence of lift zonoids of measures
Authors: Hendrych František , Nagy Stanislav
Published: January 2022

The lift zonoid is a convenient representation of an integrable measure by a convex set in a higher‐dimensional space. It is known that, under appropriate conditions, a uniformly integrable sequence of measures converges weakly if and only if the corresponding sequence of lift zonoids converges in the Hausdorff metric. We provide a new proof of this essential result. Our proof technique allows us to eliminate the unnecessary conditions previously considered in the literature. As a by‐product, we obtain a characterization of uniform integrability, and a simple sufficient condition for tightness, of a sequence of integrable measures in terms of their lift zonoids.
Climate change and the hydropower sector: A global review
Authors: Wasti Asphota , Ray Patrick , Wi Sungwook , Folch Christine , Ubierna María , Karki Pravin
Published: January 2022

Renewable sources of electricity, such as solar and wind, need to be paired with sources of reliable baseload. Hydropower is a renewable, low‐emission source of electricity baseload available throughout much of the world as an alternative to electricity conventionally provided by thermal combustion of fossil fuels; however, the global hydropower sector as it stands relies upon surface water flows of substantial and predictable volume. This makes it vulnerable to climate change. The impact of climate change on the hydropower sector is difficult to predict, and not globally uniform. It might be positive, negative, or inconsequential depending upon the local timing and magnitude of changes, reservoir size, allocation priority, and the energy market. The secondary effects of climate change on glacier lake outbursts floods, landslides, and sediment load are poorly understood. In addition, when planning hydropower projects for the future, attention must be given to the greenhouse gas contribution of the impounded waters behind storage dams, and the impact of dams on water temperature. In the past decade, sovereign nations and international development agencies worldwide have evaluated the potential of hydropower as a cost‐effective, clean, sustainable option for baseload electricity supply. There is therefore a crucial need to assess the opportunities and risks hydropower poses across a wide range of potential future climate conditions. This review paper conducts a global survey of the literature on the effect of climate change on hydropower and identifies room for improvement in current approaches to evaluation of the net benefits of hydropower projects under climate change.

This article is categorized under:

Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change > Learning from Cases and Analogies

Assessing Impacts of Climate Change > Evaluating Future Impacts of Climate Change
A Novel and Reactive Fluorescent “Turn‐on” Probe Based on Benzimidazole Derivative for Selective CN−Detection
Authors: Yang Di , Diao Xuewen , Liu Ji , Chen Yaxin , Leng Yanli , Cai Xiaohua
Published: January 2022

A novel fluorescent probeLbased on benzimidazole derivative for selective CN−detection was designed and synthesized, and its structure was identified by spectral analysis. In DMSO/H2O (v/v=7 : 3, pH=9) solvent system, the fluorescence intensity forLenhances and the color change from yellow to colorless and purple was immediately observed at 426 nm, but there was no obvious color change when other anions instead of CN−was added to the system. The mechanism on CN−recognition was also studied by1H NMR, IR, MS analysis and theoretical calculations. The probeLfor CN−detection exhibited high sensitivity, and the molar ratio and lowest detection limit was 1 : 1 and 8.2×10−7 mol L−1, respectively. In addition, the probeLcould be successfully applied to the detection of CN−in bitter almond, and was also used as a test paper, which indicated that the probeLmight conveniently carried out the quick identification and detection of cyanide ion in the environment and food samples through its fluorescent color change under UV lamp.
The AgeCap Conceptual Framework for Research on Capability in Ageing
Authors: Rydberg Sterner Therese , Häggblom-Kronlöf Greta , Gudmundsson Pia
Published: January 2022

The overall goal of AgeCap is to contribute to increased wellbeing and participation in life for the older population. While there are several ways to meet this challenge, AgeCap has chosen the capability approach, which focuses on a subjective perceived health- and ability-related perspective, rather than on disease or disabilities. The understanding of capability used within the centre is based on the work of the philosopher and economist Amartya Sen, described as the individual’s ability to perform actions in order to reach goals he or she has reason to value (Sen A. The idea of justice. Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA, 2009). The capability approach focuses on what people are able to do and to be – their capabilities – and on their freedom of choice to perform those actions. AgeCap’s multidisciplinary setting was an opportunity to adopt the capability approach within its research. Nevertheless, it also created challenges in establishing a common view of what capability is, and how to apply the concept in collaborations across several different research fields. Thus, at an early stage during the setting up of the Centre, it was decided that a conceptual framework aiming to capture a shared view of capability in ageing should be developed. In addition, in order to facilitate the application of the capability approach within the research setting and make it more accessible to different target groups within society, it was later proposed that a graphic illustration of the AgeCap framework of capability should be created. This chapter describes the conceptual framework and graphic illustration that were developed by the Communication Group in collaboration with the Steering Committee, Principal Investigators, other researchers within AgeCap and the company Explain Artist. Central concepts include available resources, conversion factors, capability set, freedom of choice, goals of value and justice. The purpose of the conceptual framework is mainly to serve as a platform for researchers to use in any way they find relevant from their own perspective. Furthermore, the graphic illustration was developed in order to facilitate the application of the capability approach within AgeCap and make our research more accessible to society in order to dismantle the wall between researchers, older people and the general public.
Co-Creation Tools für den Projektabschluss
Authors: Kurzhals Kerstin , Uude Katrin , Sormani Eva , Chak Choiwai Maggie , Banze Madleen
Published: January 2022

Euer Projekt ist schon vor einiger Zeit gestartet und ihr habt bereits zahlreiche Ergebnisse vorliegen. Dann seid ihr nun schon in der letzten Phase des Projektes angekommen, der des Projektabschlusses. Euer Ziel ist es zum einen, eure Ergebnisse messbar zu machen, zum anderen wollt ihr, dass die Projektergebnisse auch nachhaltig in der Gesellschaft etabliert werden und einen gesellschaftlichen sowie sozialen Einfluss erzeugen.
Projektübergreifende Co-Creation Tools
Authors: Kurzhals Kerstin , Uude Katrin , Sormani Eva , Chak Choiwai Maggie , Banze Madleen
Published: January 2022

Der Erfolg transdisziplinärer Kooperationen liegt maßgeblich in der Vielfalt der beteiligten Akteur*innen, wobei hierdurch die Wahrscheinlichkeit steigt, dass diese auch räumlich weit verteilt sind. Dies ist insbesondere der Fall, wenn zivilgesellschaftliche Akteur*innen beteiligt sind, da diese häufig aus einem erweiterten Einzugsgebiet kommen und sich in den seltensten Fällen direkt am Hochschulstandort bündeln. Zusammenarbeit beginnt jedoch durch Austausch gemeinsamer Interessen, durch Nähe, durch das persönliche Gespräch miteinander.
Operative communication: project Cybersyn and the intersection of information design, interface design, and interaction design
Authors: Vehlken Sebastian
Published: January 2022

This article examines the connecting lines between the Chilean Project Cybersyn’s interface design, the German Hochschule für Gestaltung Ulm and its cybernetically inspired approaches towards information design, and later developments in interaction design and the emerging field of Human–Computer Interaction in the USA. In particular, it first examines how early works of designers Tomàs Maldonado and Gui Bonsiepe on operative communication, that is, language-independent (and thus internationalizable) pictogram systems and visual grammars for computational systems, were intertwined with attempts to ground industrial design in a scientific methodology, to address an era of computing machines, and to develop the concept of the interface as a heuristic for a renovated design thinking. It thereby also reconstructs further historical vanishing lines—e.g. the pictorial grammar of Otto Neurath’s ISOTYPE—of the development of the ‘ulm model’ of design. Second, the article explores how an apprehension of first-order cybernetics in West Germany—e.g. represented by hfg ulm staff like Max Bense or Abraham Moles, merged with Cybersyn’s second-order cybernetics ideas, as represented by Stafford Beer’s Viable System Model. And third, it asks about a further conceptual turn regarding an understanding of design which resulted in a focus on communicative interaction, e.g. in the later works of Fernando Flores and Terry Winograd on HCI, or in Beer’s Team Syntegrity approach. As an effect, the text will explore a specific and international network of cybernetic thinking between Latin America, Europe, and North America which emerged around Project Cybersyn, and which was occupied with questions of HCI, a democratization of design, and intelligence amplification.