bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direction‐Selectable Ultra‐Highly Oriented State of Donor–Acceptor Conjugated Polymer Induced by Slow Bar Coating Process
Authors: Yabuuchi Yuta , Minowa Yu , Kajii Hirotake , Nagano Shusaku , Fujii Akihiko , Ozaki Masanori
Published: July 2021

The molecular orientation of π‐conjugated polymers is a significant factor for the electrical properties of polymer‐based printable devices, because π‐conjugated polymers exhibit a notable fast carrier transport property along their main chain. Although various coating processes are suggested, the challenge to realize high‐degree alignment by one‐step coating without pre‐ or post‐treatments still remains. In this paper, it is reported on the fabrication of an extremely highly aligned thin film by a slow bar coating process using a donor–acceptor π‐conjugated polymer with great aggregability. The 2D order parameter achieved is 0.9, which is the highest obtained among the alignment methods with a one‐step coating process. Furthermore, the direction of the main chain is selectively oriented parallel or perpendicular to the coating direction depending on the solution concentration with high orientation degree. This unique orientation phenomenon seems to be related to the nematic liquid crystallinity of poly[2,5‐(2‐octyldodecyl)‐3,6‐diketopyrrolopyrrole‐alt‐5,5‐(2,5‐di(thien‐2‐yl)thieno [3,2‐b]thiophene)] aggregates formed by the slow coating process. The orientation dynamics is discussed by taking the structure and behavior of the aggregates in the solution into account.
Unraveling the Technology behind the Frontrunner LIC ULTIMO to Serve as a Guideline for Optimum Lithium‐Ion Capacitor Design, Assembly, and Characterization
Authors: Caizán‐Juanarena Leire , Arnaiz María , Gucciardi Emanuele , Oca Laura , Bekaert Emilie , Gandiaga Iñigo , Ajuria Jon
Published: July 2021

The fast growth experienced by the field of lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) in the last five years led to tremendous progress in this technology. However, the authors have observed some parallelism with its ultracapacitor (UC) sister technology, where an over‐rapid growth in the last decade resulted in a loss of focus and the need of several tutorials for reconducting incorrect reporting habits. In the light of what may be coming, the authors aim to set this work as a direction to the scientific community and the new researchers in the field to serve as i) a retrospective analysis of the original target for LICs to prevent focus deviation and ii) a guideline for proper LIC design and assembly toward high energy, high power, and long cycle life, as well as for correct electrochemical characterization and reporting. The underlying thread throughout this report is the technology behind the frontrunner LIC ULTIMO, a reference device in the market that presents 3–4 times the energy density of an UC and can stand over 1 million cycles, unraveled by means of ante‐mortem analysis.
Expression stability of candidate RT‐qPCR housekeeping genes in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zhou Lv , Meng Jian‐Yu , Ruan Hong‐Yun , Yang Chang‐Li , Zhang Chang‐Yu
Published: July 2021

Reverse‐transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) is commonly used to quantify gene expression. For normalization, the expression of each gene is compared with a reference “housekeeping” gene that is stably expressed under relevant stress. Unfortunately, there have been no reports on the stability of such reference genes under various treatments of the Spodoptera frugiperda. In this study, we used five tools (RefFinder, GeNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and ΔCt methods) to evaluate the stability of 12 candidate reference genes (RPS18, β‐tubulin, GAPDH, RPS7, RPS15, RPL7, RPL32, Actin‐5C, EF1‐α, EF1‐γ, RPL27, and ACE) in different instars, tissues, and treatments (high and low temperature, UV‐A, and emamectin benzoate). Several ribosomal proteins (RPS7, RPS15, RPL32, RPS18, and RPL7), GAPDH, Actin‐5C, and β‐tubulin, were relatively stable, suggesting that they are ideal housekeeping genes for various treatments. ACE was extremely unstable under various experimental treatments, rendering it unsuitable as an internal reference. This study identified the reference housekeeping genes stably expressed by S. frugiperda under different treatments, thus setting a foundation for further exploration of the physiological and biochemical mechanisms.
Group controllability of discrete‐time second‐order multi‐agent systems with two‐time‐scale feature
Authors: Gu Mengqi , Jiang Guo‐Ping , Qian Juan , Wu Yayong
Published: July 2021

This study investigates the group controllability of discrete‐time second‐order multi‐agent systems (MASs) with two‐time‐scale feature. The paper first provides a definition of the group controllability of discrete‐time second‐order MASs with two‐time‐scale feature. In view of the ill‐posedness problem that occurs when the classical control theory is used directly to manage the controllability of two‐time‐scale MASs with a singular perturbation parameter, we adopt a singular perturbation method based on iteration and approximation to decompose two‐time‐scale MASs into fast‐time‐scale and slow‐time‐scale subsystems. Subsequently, by combining the Kalman rank criterion and matrix theory knowledge, several additional easy‐to‐operate controllable criteria are proposed for these MASs. The validity is then demonstrated through simulations, and the influence of the singular perturbation parameter on the group controllability of discrete‐time second‐order MASs is discussed. This research complements existing situations in which only first‐order agents are considered.
A novel therapeutic phosphate‐based glass improves full‐thickness wound healing in a rat model
Authors: Taulescu Cristina A. , Taulescu Marian , Suciu Maria , Bolunduț Liviu C. , Pășcuța Petru , Toma Corina , Urda‐Cîmpean Andrada , Dreanca Alexandra , Șenilă Marin , Cadar Oana , Ștefan Răzvan
Published: July 2021

Wound healing is a highly dynamic process and innovative therapeutic approaches are currently developed to address challenges of providing optimal wound care. In this study, phosphate‐based glasses in the (CuO)x·(KPO3)79.5‐x·(ZnO)20·(Ag2O)0.5system (CuKPO3ZnAg), with different CuO/ KPO3ratios were prepared by melt‐quenching technique. Constant Cu concentrations were released from the samples during immersion in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF), while Zn concentrations were slightly decreased over time. Glass surface phosphatation leading to formation of Zn crystalline salts was revealed through spectroscopic techniques. This finding was supported by SEM images that illustrated new compound formation. Subsequent cytotoxicity evaluation on HaCaT Keratinocytes using the indirect MTT cell viability assay revealed a CuO concentration‐dependent cytotoxicity profile and excellent biocompatibility at low CuO concentrations, in all CuKPO3ZnAg glasses. Furthermore, the (CuO)5·(KPO3)74.5·(ZnO)20·(Ag2O)0.5sample (5CuKPO3ZnAg),demonstrated superior antibacterial potency againstS. aureus(ATCC 25923) strain compared to amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin. In vivo full‐thickness wound healing evaluation showed a significantly higher regenerative effect of the 5CuKPO3ZnAg sample, in terms of angiogenesis, collagen synthesis and re‐epithelialization compared to non‐treated wounds. These findings advance our understanding of the therapeutic perspectives of phosphate‐based glasses, showing promising potential for wound‐healing applications.
Electronic characteristics of BRCA1 mutations in DNA
Authors: He Lijun , Zhang Jinsha , He Chengyun , Zhao Boyang , Xie Zhiyang , Chen Weizhong , Sonawane Mahadev R. , Patil Sunil R.
Published: July 2021

The efficient and low‐cost way for gene mutation detection and identification are conducive for the detection of disease. Here, we report the electronic characteristics of the gene of breast cancer 1 in four common mutation types: duplication, single nucleotide variant, deletion, and indel. The electronic characteristics are investigated by the combination of density functional theory and non‐equilibrium Green's function formulation with decoherence. The magnitude of conductance of these DNA molecules and mutational changes are found to be detectable experimentally. In this study, we also find the significant mutation type dependent on the change of conductance. Hence these mutations are expected to be identifiable. We find deletion type mutation shows the largest change in relative conductance (~97%), whereas the indel mutation shows the smallest change in relative conductance (~27%). Therefore, this work presents a possibility of electronic detection and identification of mutations in DNA, which could be an efficient method as compared to the conventional methods.
Consider how new state laws intersect with NCAA's transgender inclusion policy
Authors: Romano Robert J.
Published: July 2021

The NCAA recently reiterated its support for allowing transgender student‐athletes to compete in college sports. The NCAA asserts that one of its core values is its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and gender equity among its student‐athletes, with its official position being to “establish and maintain an inclusive culture that fosters equitable participation for student‐athletes and career opportunities for coaches and administrators from diverse backgrounds.”
Legal experts discuss potential impact of NIL changes
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: July 2021

In the midst of the impending disruption to college sports as we know it, a panel of experts discussed the potential legal and regulatory implications for student‐athletes, athletics administrators, coaches, and others during a virtual forum in June hosted by Gonzaga University and the University of Washington. The panel was moderated by Agnieszka McPeak, J.D., Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Law, Ethics, and Commerce at the Gonzaga University School of Law.
Instilling innovation and entrepreneurship in engineering graduate students: Observations at the University of Calgary
Authors: Gates Ian D. , Wang Jingyi , Kannaiyan Ranjani , Su Yi
Published: July 2021

Today's employers not only want graduates who are critical thinkers and problem solvers that are able to work in teams, but also individuals that understand innovation and how to use entrepreneurial activities to move innovations to become benefits to society. For research‐based graduate students, this is even more desired, with emphasis on an understanding of innovation processes and the realization of the role that innovation plays for the survival and growth of existing corporations as well as the key contribution it makes in start‐up companies. Many engineering programs focus on traditional engineering attributes, and although these are essential elements that engineering graduates should learn through their training, little attention is paid to innovation and the conversion of innovations to realized impacts. Here, we review innovation and discuss our experience with trainees (graduate students and post‐doctoral scholars) and how to engage them in innovation activities. Our observation is that innovation is coachable and can be cultivated in research‐based trainees. We recommend nine actions (understanding the challenge, motivation, safe and mentored local environment, tolerance to failure, diversity, rewarding of passion, awareness of the external, internal‐external environment, and creative destruction and preservation) that trainees should be exposed to in order to promote innovation and entrepreneurial activities so that they can establish and/or strengthen their innovation and entrepreneurship muscles, which hopefully continues after they leave university.
Air quality: An inexpensive CO2 indicator for the classroom with LabPi
Authors: Wejner Manuel , Wilke Timm
Published: July 2021

Im Zuge der anstehenden Öffnungen von Schulen für den Präsenzunterricht steht im Rahmen der Covid‐19‐Pandemie die Qualität von Raumluft besonders im Vordergrund. Die Kohlenstoffdioxid‐Konzentration ist dabei ein guter Indikator für die Luftqualität und Keimbelastung und kann vergleichsweise einfach erfasst werden. Im Artikel wird beschrieben, wie die CO2‐Konzentration mit der digitalen Messstation LabPi erfasst werden kann. Zusätzlich wird eine weitere LabPi‐Variante im Sinne einer CO2‐Ampel vorgestellt, die mit einfachen Materialien und kostenfreier Software selbst angefertigt werden kann.
Effect of Silymarin Treatment on Circulating Bilirubin and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Healthy Men: A Single‐Blind, Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Vidimce Josif , Pennell Evan Noel , Foo Maxmilian , Shiels Ryan Graeme , Shibeeb Sapha , Watson Michael , Bulmer Andrew Cameron
Published: July 2021

This clinical trial (ACTRN12619001296123) investigated the impact of silymarin (Legalon®) on circulating bilirubin concentration, lipid status, systemic inflammation, and antioxidant status. The study design was a randomized, placebo‐controlled, single‐blind crossover trial of healthy men (18‐65 years), conducted at Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia. Participants were recruited from Griffith University and were randomized to silymarin (140 mg silymarin capsules thrice daily) or placebo (3 capsules containing mannitol taken daily) for 14 days followed by a ≥4‐week washout and crossover to the other arm. The main outcomes were whether silymarin treatment would increase serum bilirubin concentration by >0.29 mg/dL, change serum lipid status (cholesterol and triglycerides), inflammation (c‐reactive protein), and antioxidant capacity (ferric reducing ability of plasma) compared with baseline. Silymarin consumption (n = 17) did not affect serum concentrations of unconjugated bilirubin (0.73 versus 0.67 mg/dL, P = .79), cholesterol (185 versus 189 mg/dL, P = .19), triglycerides (94.2 versus 92.3 mg/dL, P = .79), c‐reactive protein (0.17 versus 0.09 mg/dL, P = .23), or antioxidant status (6.61 versus 6.67 mg Fe2+/dL, P = .40). These findings challenge previous reports and manufacturer claims of hyperbilirubinemia following silymarin treatment and are critical to guiding researchers toward an effective means to mildly elevate bilirubin, which evidence suggests could protect from cardiovascular disease.
Lack of an Effect of Supratherapeutic Dose of Venlafaxine on Cardiac Repolarization in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Abbas Richat , Riley Steve , Nepal Sunil , Bachinsky Mary , Lee Kimberly C. , Chappell Phillip B. , Damle Bharat
Published: July 2021

This single‐center, randomized, 3‐way crossover thorough QT study evaluated the effect of steady‐state supratherapeutic venlafaxine (Effexor) on cardiac repolarization. Fifty‐four healthy adults received double‐blinded extended‐release venlafaxine 450 mg/d and placebo and open‐label positive‐control moxifloxacin 400 mg. The postdose QT intervals corrected for heart rate using the Fridericia formula (QTcF) were assessed on day 14 with an analysis of covariance using a mixed‐effects model. At each time, the upper bound of the 2‐sided 90%CI for time‐matched least‐squares (LS) mean difference between venlafaxine and placebo did not exceed the predefined cutoff of 10 milliseconds; the highest 90%CI upper bound was 5.8 milliseconds 24 hours postdose, demonstrating the lack of effect of venlafaxine on the QTc interval (primary objective). Assay sensitivity was established because the lower bound of the 2‐sided 90%CI for LS mean difference in QTcF between moxifloxacin and placebo was 7.413 milliseconds on day 14 (postdose 3 hours). The exposure‐response analysis demonstrated no evidence of increase in QTcF with increase in venlafaxine and desvenlafaxine concentrations. Also, supratherapeutic venlafaxine was found to be safe and well tolerated. Overall, the results demonstrated the lack of significant prolongation of the QTc interval with supratherapeutic venlafaxine 450 mg/d.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of a Single Dose and Multiple Doses of Allisartan Isoproxil, an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker, in Healthy Chinese People
Authors: Yi Wu , Yan Peiyuan , Lin Sisi , Hao Rui , Wang Yannan , Yu Jin , Fang Lu , Zhu Jingjing , Zhao Di , Tong Shengjia , Si Yongkai , Ye Tiantian , Wu Zeyu , Qin Zhiquan , Huang Hua , Deng Chongyang , Sun Jingchao , Wang Ying
Published: July 2021

Allisartan isoproxil (AI) is a blocker of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. We evaluated the safety and pharmacokinetics of single‐ and multiple‐dose AI in healthy Chinese individuals. Participants were assigned to receive AI or placebo. Plasma concentration of EXP3174 (carboxylic acid derivative) was measured using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined by noncompartmental methods. Twelve subjects were enrolled, and the ratio of men to women was 5:1. Main pharmacokinetic parameters of EXP3174 after single and multiple doses of AI were a mean maximum concentration in plasma (Cmax) of 2242 ± 1037 ng/mL and median time to reach Cmax (Tmax) of 3.5 hours (2.5‐8 hours). The median Tmax, at steady state was 4.0 hours (1.5‐8 hours). The mean Cmax at steady state (Cmax, SS) was 2047 ± 1050 ng/mL. In terms of EXP3174, there was no significant difference in the Cmax, SS, area under the curve from time zero to 24 hours of quantifiable concentration at steady state (AUC0–24 SS), and AUC0‐72 after multiple doses of AI. Serious adverse events did not occur. These data suggest that AI is safe and well tolerated in healthy Chinese individuals at a single dose of 480 or 480 mg once daily for 7 days.
Regulation of spatial distribution of BMP ligands for pattern formation
Authors: Montanari Martti P. , Tran Ngan Vi , Shimmi Osamu
Published: July 2021

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), members of the transforming growth factor‐ß (TGF‐ß) family, have been shown to contribute to embryogenesis and organogenesis during animal development. Relevant studies provide support for the following concepts: (a) BMP signals are evolutionarily highly conserved as a genetic toolkit; (b) spatiotemporal distributions of BMP signals are precisely controlled at the post‐translational level; and (c) the BMP signaling network has been co‐opted to adapt to diversified animal development. These concepts originated from the historical findings of the Spemann‐Mangold organizer and the subsequent studies about how this organizer functions at the molecular level. In this Commentary, we focus on two topics. First, we review how the BMP morphogen gradient is formed to sustain larval wing imaginal disc and early embryo growth and patterning in Drosophila. Second, we discuss how BMP signal is tightly controlled in a context‐dependent manner, and how the signal and tissue dynamics are coupled to facilitate complex tissue structure formation. Finally, we argue how these concepts might be developed in the future for further understanding the significance of BMP signaling in animal development.
Emerging roles ofMT‐MMPsin embryonic development
Authors: Moracho Natalia , Learte Ana I. R. , Muñoz‐Sáez Emma , Marchena Miguel A. , Cid María A. , Arroyo Alicia G. , Sánchez‐Camacho Cristina
Published: July 2021

Membrane‐type matrix metalloproteinases (MT‐MMPs) are cell membrane‐tethered proteinases that belong to the family of the MMPs. Apart from their roles in degradation of the extracellular milieu, MT‐MMPs are able to activate through proteolytic processing at the cell surface distinct molecules such as receptors, growth factors, cytokines, adhesion molecules, and other pericellular proteins. Although most of the information regarding these enzymes comes from cancer studies, our current knowledge about their contribution in distinct developmental processes occurring in the embryo is limited. In this review, we want to summarize the involvement of MT‐MMPs in distinct processes during embryonic morphogenesis, including cell migration and proliferation, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, cell polarity and branching, axon growth and navigation, synapse formation, and angiogenesis. We also considered information about MT‐MMP functions from studies assessed in pathological conditions and compared these data with those relevant for embryonic development.
The role of Gdf5 in the development of the zebrafish fin endoskeleton
Authors: Waldmann Laura , Leyhr Jake , Zhang Hanqing , Allalou Amin , Öhman‐Mägi Caroline , Haitina Tatjana
Published: July 2021

Background

The development of the vertebrate limb skeleton requires a complex interaction of multiple factors to facilitate the correct shaping and positioning of bones and joints. Growth and differentiation factor 5 (Gdf5) is involved in patterning appendicular skeletal elements including joints. Expression of gdf5 in zebrafish has been detected in fin mesenchyme condensations and segmentation zones as well as the jaw joint, however, little is known about the functional role of Gdf5 outside of Amniota.

Results

We generated CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of gdf5 in zebrafish and analyzed the resulting phenotype at different developmental stages. Homozygous gdf5 mutant zebrafish displayed changes in segmentation of the endoskeletal disc and, as a consequence, loss of posterior radials in the pectoral fins. Mutant fish also displayed disorganization and reduced length of endoskeletal elements in the median fins, while joints and mineralization seemed unaffected.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the importance of Gdf5 in the development of the zebrafish pectoral and median fin endoskeleton and reveals that the severity of the effect increases from anterior to posterior elements. Our findings are consistent with phenotypes observed in the human and mouse appendicular skeleton in response to Gdf5 knockout, suggesting a broadly conserved role for Gdf5 in Osteichthyes.
The stoichiometric signature of high‐frequency fire in forest floor food webs
Authors: Butler Orpheus M. , Lewis Tom , Maunsell Sarah C. , Rezaei Rashti Mehran , Elser James J. , Mackey Brendan , Chen Chengrong
Published: July 2021

Fire regimes are shifting under climate change. Decadal‐scale shifts in fire regime can disrupt the biogeochemical cycling of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) within forest ecosystems, but the full extent of these disruptions is unknown. It is also unclear whether these disruptions have consequences for the ecological characteristics (e.g., biomass, abundance, and composition) of microbial and invertebrate communities, which together comprise the majority of terrestrial biodiversity and underpin many ecosystem processes. The theoretical framework of ecological stoichiometry has great potential in this context, but it has rarely been used to develop an integrated understanding of the biogeochemical and ecological effects of altered fire regime across trophic levels. Using one of the world's longest‐running fire experiments, located in Queensland, Australia, we carried out a comprehensive investigation into the stoichiometric consequences of a decadal‐scale divergence in prescribed fire frequency and their links to coinciding changes in various ecological characteristics of forest floor microbial and invertebrate communities. Compared to long‐term fire exclusion, forty‐three years of biennial burning led to significantly N‐depleted and/or P‐enriched stoichiometry in soil, leaf litter, leaf litter–associated microbial biomass, and certain groups of invertebrates, although total invertebrate community stoichiometry was not affected. Microbial biomass was 42% lower in biennially burned soils. Invertebrate community composition differed between fire regime treatments on some sampling dates, but fire regime did not have consistent effects on invertebrate biomass or abundance. Microbial biomass and the abundances of some invertebrate taxa were depressed at particularly low and/or high resource N:P, consistent with a coupling of these variables to the stoichiometric effects of decadal‐scale fire regime. Litter transplants likewise indicated that some invertebrate abundances were sensitive to litter properties over 12 months. Together, our results indicate that long‐term changes in fire regime can decouple the within‐ecosystem cycling of N and P, with N and P cycling growing more and less conservative, respectively, under high‐frequency fire in a way that propagates throughout forest floor food webs. Our study provides new insights into the coupled biogeochemical and ecological responses of forest ecosystems to novel fire regimes and establishes a basis for a stoichiometric framework for fire ecology.
Temporal change in inflammatory biomarkers and risk of cardiovascular events: the Multi‐ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Shabani Mahsima , Bakhshi Hooman , Ostovaneh Mohammad R. , Ma Xiaoyang , Wu Colin O. , Ambale‐Venkatesh Bharath , Blaha Michael J. , Allison Matthew A. , Budoff Matthew J. , Cushman Mary , Tracy Russell P. , Herrington David M. , Szklo Moyses , Cox Christopher , Bluemke David A. , Lima João A.C.
Published: July 2021

Aims

Little is known about the association of temporal changes in inflammatory biomarkers and the risk of death and cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to evaluate the association between temporal changes in C‐reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and risk of heart failure (HF), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and all‐cause mortality in individuals without a history of prior CVD.

Methods and results

Participants from the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) cohort with repeated measures of inflammatory biomarkers and no CVD event prior to the second measure were included. Quantitative measures, annual change, and biomarker change categories were used as main predictors in Cox proportional hazard models stratified based on sex and statin use. A total of 2258 subjects (50.6% female, mean age of 62 years) were studied over an average of 8.1 years of follow‐up. The median annual decrease in CRP levels was 0.08 mg/L. Fibrinogen and IL‐6 levels increased by a median of 30 mg/dL and 0.24 pg/mL annually. Temporal changes in CRP were positively associated with HF risk among females (HR: 1.18 per each standard deviation increase, P < 0.001) and other CVD in both female (HR: 1.12, P = 0.004) and male participants (HR: 1.24, P = 0.003). The association of CRP change with HF and other CVD was consistently observed in statin users (HR: 1.23 per SD increase, P = 0.001 for HF and HR: 1.19 per SD increase, P < 0.001 for other CVD). There were no significant associations between temporal changes of fibrinogen or IL‐6 with HF or other CVD. Men with sustained high values of IL‐6 had a 2.3‐fold higher risk of all‐cause mortality (P < 0.001) compared with those with sustained low values.

Conclusions

Temporal change in CRP is associated with HF only in women and statin users, and other CVD in both women and men, and statin users. Annual changes in fibrinogen and IL‐6 were not predictive of cardiovascular outcomes in either sex.
A hybrid intelligent busbar protection strategy using hyperbolic S‐transforms and extreme learning machines
Authors: Rahimnejad Abolfazl , Gil Milad , Abdoos Aliakbar , Gadsden S. Andrew
Published: July 2021

In power systems, busbars connect important components such as generators, transmission lines, and loads. A typical fault occurrence on the busbar may result in the isolation of faulty sections from other normally operating parts of the system resulting from differential protection operation. Although the main busbars' protection scheme is differential protection, its operation is significantly affected by magnetic saturation of the current transformer (CT), particularly during external fault occurrence or energizing power transformers. Saturation of the CT may generate a spurious differential current and is the main reason for the differential scheme malfunctioning. Previous research presented different methods to modify and improve busbars' differential protection scheme. However, there has been lack of a comprehensive study to assess the efficiency of the busbar protection scheme regarding all involved, and influencing aspects including various fault types, energizing power transformer, (high) fault resistance, fault angle (changing from 0° to 360°), and the angle of the sources. Thus, in this study, a hybrid intelligent busbar protection scheme is proposed and the effects of all these factors are investigated. The proposed strategy utilizes the hyperbolic S‐transform as a signal processing technique to extract an efficient feature that is able to discriminate internal faults from other abnormal modes, that is, external faults and inrush current under CT saturation. To obtain this goal, a learning‐based classification method known as extreme learning machines is used to classify the system conditions based on the selected features. The proposed protection scheme was found to have low sensitivity to CT saturation and noise and was able to accurately detect internal faults from half a cycle to one cycle of the power system depending on the fault resistance.
Improving thermal and flame retardant properties of sorbitol‐based bioepoxy systems by phosphorus‐based flame retardants
Authors: Aljamal Amer , Szolnoki Beáta , Marosi György
Published: July 2021

Flame‐retarded sorbitol‐based bioepoxy resins cured with cycloaliphatic amine hardener and containing different commercially available additive‐type flame retardants (FRs) have been prepared. Three different oxidation states of phosphorus, aluminium diethyl phosphinate (AlPi) (+1), phosphonate polyol (+3), ethyl ethylene glycol phosphate and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) (+5), have been studied. The effect of using melamine cyanurate with APP and AlPi has been assessed. The self‐extinguishing V‐0 rating according to UL‐94 flammability standard tests and very good limiting oxygen index for combustion are displayed for most flame‐retarded samples at 3 wt% phosphorus content. The flame retardancy effect for the additives was confirmed using cone calorimetry. The samples containing MC with APP at 3%P content showed a dramatic reduction of the total heat release by 60% and reduction of the peak of heat release rate by 70% compared to the reference epoxy matrix. The addition of these FRs together did not decrease the glass transition temperature significantly.
Adapted fairness benchmarks for the evaluation of Iran health system reform
Authors: Mojdehkar Reyhaneh , Jahangiri Katayoun , Hajinabi Kamran , Riahi Leila
Published: July 2021

Introduction

This study has been designed to localize fairness benchmarks for the evaluation of health system reform with an ethical approach.

Methods

A descriptive‐analytic study was applied in which a questionnaire with selected indicators and based on main fairness benchmarks was validated. Besides, the final indicators were chosen for surveys of 255 health equity experts from 31 provinces of Iran to localize fairness benchmarks using the exploratory factor analysis through the SPSS software.

Results

Seven fairness benchmarks were adopted: (1) Efficacy, Efficiency, and Quality of Health Care; (2) Impact of Information Infrastructure on Health Reform; (3) Responsiveness; (4) Equitable Access, and Universal Health Coverage; (5) Equitable Financing; (6) Social Determinant of Health; and (7) Financial Barriers to Equitable Access.

Conclusion

The priorities of fairness benchmarking through localization included focusing on the quantity and quality of primary health care, allocating resources based on the need; for equitable efficiency, and paying attention to community‐based information infrastructure, and social determinants for fair reform. Moreover, respecting patient rights as a part of democratic accountability was more close to equity. Elimination of financial and nonfinancial barriers for health access and coverage based on vulnerability, through fair financing, was also confirmed.
Functional premature closure of the fetal foramen ovale: A case report
Authors: Ju Shuang , Dong Shan , Song Li , Zhuo Qingcui , Liu Xiaoyue , Zhang Youzhong , Zheng Wenqian , Zhou Yan , Fang Yan
Published: July 2021

Synopsis

A velamentous placenta and umbilical cord torsion may be important contributing factors for premature functional foramen ovale closure. Before major complications develop, the infantile prognosis is usually good.
Sparse change‐point VAR models
Authors: Dufays Arnaud , Li Zhuo , Rombouts Jeroen V.K. , Song Yong
Published: July 2021

Change‐point (CP) VAR models face a dimensionality curse due to the proliferation of parameters that arises when new breaks are detected. We introduce the Sparse CP‐VAR model which determines which parameters truly vary when a break is detected. By doing so, the number of new parameters to be estimated at each regime is drastically reduced and the break dynamics becomes easier to be interpreted. The Sparse CP‐VAR model disentangles the dynamics of the mean parameters and the covariance matrix. The former uses CP dynamics with shrinkage prior distributions, while the latter is driven by an infinite hidden Markov framework. An extensive simulation study is carried out to compare our approach with existing ones. We provide applications to financial and macroeconomic systems. It turns out that many off‐diagonal VAR parameters are zero for the entire sample period and that most break activity is in the covariance matrix. We show that this has important consequences for portfolio optimization, in particular when future instabilities are included in the predictive densities. Forecasting‐wise, the Sparse CP‐VAR model compares favorably to several time‐varying parameter models in terms of density and point forecast metrics.
Risk of Thrombocytopenia With Platelet‐Derived Growth Factor Receptor Kinase Inhibitors in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Phase 2/3 Randomized, Controlled Trials
Authors: Liu Yuan , Sun Wenxia , Li Jing
Published: July 2021

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to fully investigate the thrombocytopenia of platelet‐derived growth factor receptor kinase inhibitors (PDGFR‐TKIs) in cancer patients. Databases were searched for randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) treated with PDGFR‐TKIs until January 2021. The relevant RCTs in cancer patients treated with PDGFR‐TKIs were retrieved, and the systematic evaluation was conducted. Nineteen RCTs and 3962 patients were included. Our study suggests that PDGFR‐TKIs significantly increased the risks of all‐grade (risk ratio [RR], 5.72; 95%CI, 4.32‐7.59; P < .00001; I2 = 32%) and high‐grade (RR, 5.65; 95%CI, 3.28‐9.75; P < .00001; I2 = 0%) thrombocytopenia in cancer patients. Sunitinib is associated with the highest risk of thrombocytopenia among the included PDGFR‐TKIs. The RR of high‐grade thrombocytopenia varies significantly according to treatment line and median age. The available data suggested that the use of PDGFR‐TKIs was associated with a significantly increased risk of thrombocytopenia.
Acute transient swelling of the thyroid following fine‐needle aspiration: A case series
Authors: Zheng Bo‐wen , Wu Tao , Xu Shi‐cheng , Yin Ting‐hui , Tan Lei , Lian Yu‐fan , Ren Jie
Published: July 2021

Acute transient swelling (ATS) of the thyroid is a rare complication following fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules. We present 31 cases with 35 nodules encountered at our institute and reported in the literature, to provide further information. The incidence rate in our institute was 0.46%. Of these nodules, 74.3% (26/35) were solid, 65.7% (23/35) exhibited hypervascularity, and 77.2% (27/35) were benign or follicular neoplasms. Although most cases (87.1%, 27/31) occurred within 2 h after FNA, four patients experienced delayed ATS after 7 h to 2 days. Therefore, awareness of this complication, especially its delayed occurrence, should be raised.
DWI and IVIM Imaging in a Murine Model of Rhabdomyosarcoma: Correlations with Quantitative Histopathologic Features
Authors: Fang Shaobo , Yang Yanyu , Chen Bo , Yin Zhenzhen , Liu Yajie , Tao Juan , Zhang Yu , Yuan Yuan , Wang Qi , Wang Shaowu
Published: July 2021

Background

High cellularity and abnormal interstitial structures are some of the unfavorable factors that affect the treatment outcomes and survival of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) patients.

Purpose

To explore the correlation between diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) with quantitative histopathologic features in a murine model of RMS.

Study Type

Prospective.

Animal Model

Murine model of RMS (31 female BALB/c nude mice).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T; fast spin‐echo (FSE) T1‐weighted imaging, fast relaxation fast spin‐echo (FRFSE) T2‐weighted imaging, DWI PROPELLER FSE imaging sequence, and IVIM echo planar imaging sequence; 10 different b‐values (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, and 1200 s/mm2).

Assessment

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed after 30–45 days of implantation. The following MRI parameters were calculated: apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), pure diffusion coefficient (D), pseudo‐diffusion coefficient (D*), and perfusion fraction (f). Histopathologic features, which contained nuclear, cytoplasmic, and stromal fractions, and the nuclear‐to‐cytoplasmic ratio within the tumor were measured using image‐based segmentation.

Statistical Tests

Pearson's correlation, multiple linear regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed. A P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The ADC value showed moderate negative correlation with nuclear fraction (r = −0.540), and moderate positive correlation with stroma fraction (r = 0.474). The D value showed moderate negative correlation with nuclear fraction (r = −0.491), and moderate positive correlation with stroma fraction (r = 0.421). The f value showed a moderate negative correlation with stroma fraction (r = −0.423). The D value showed the best diagnostic ability. The optimal cut‐off D value of 0.460 was associated with 77.8% sensitivity and 68.2% specificity (area under the curve, 0.747).

Data Conclusion

The ADC, D, and f values obtained from DWI and IVIM images showed moderate correlation with the quantitative histopathologic features in a murine model of RMS.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

3
Novel concepts in atrial fibrillation ablation—breaking the trade‐off between efficacy and safety
Authors: Althoff Till F. , Mont Lluís
Published: July 2021

Despite substantial technological and procedural advances that have improved the efficacy and safety of AF ablation in recent years, the long‐term durability of ablation lesions is still not satisfactory. There also remains concern regarding rare but potentially life‐threatening procedure‐related complications like cardiac tamponade and atrioesophageal fistulae. Current ablation strategies are aiming to optimize the trade‐off between efficacy and safety, where more extensive ablation appears to inevitably increase the risk of collateral injury. However, new forms of energy application may have the potential to resolve this quandary. The emerging concept of high power‐short duration radiofrequency ablation features a more favorable lesion geometry that appears ideally suited to create contiguous lesions in the thin‐walled atrium. Moreover, novel non‐thermal ablation methods based on electroporation appear to provide a unique selectivity for cardiomyocytes and to spare surrounding tissues composed of other cell types. Both, high power‐short duration and electroporation ablation might have the potential to break the trade‐off between effective lesions and collateral damage and to substantially improve risk‐benefit ratios in AF ablation. In addition, both approaches lead to considerable reductions in ablation times. However, their putative benefits regarding efficacy, efficiency, and safety remain to be proven in randomized controlled trials.
Pathogenic gene variation spectrum and carrier screening for Wilson’s disease in Qingdao area
Authors: Qiao Lingyan , Ge Juan , Li Cheng , Liu Yusheng , Hu Conghui , Hu Sicui , Li Wenjie , Li Tang
Published: July 2021

Background

Despite the increasing number of reports on the analysis of ATP7B variants, reports on carrier screening for Wilson's disease (WD, OMIM:277900) are rare.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were collected from 42 patients from Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital diagnosed with WD for direct sequencing of ATP7B gene. Twelve hotspot variants of ATP7B were selected for carrier screening in Qingdao area based on an analysis of information related to ATP7B variants and literature reports in China. We screened 5012 dried blood spots (DBSs) from asymptomatic newborns in Qingdao area to estimate carrier frequency. DNA was extracted from dried blood spots. Gene sequencing was performed using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) combined with second‐generation sequencing. The carrier frequency of each hotspot variant was calculated using the count data (expressed as number of carriers (%) obtained by direct counting.

Results

The carrier frequency of 12 hotspot variants was 1.46% (95% CI: 1.16–1.83%). The ATP7B variant with the highest carrier frequency was c.2333G>T, accounting for 54.79% of all variants screened, followed by c.2975C>T and c.2621C>T, accounting for 17.81% and 15.07% of all variants screened, respectively.

Conclusion

Carrier frequency of ATP7B gene pathogenic variants is high in the population in Qingdao area.
Safety and imaging performance of two‐channel RF shimming for fetal MRI at 3T
Authors: Yetisir Filiz , Abaci Turk Esra , Guerin Bastien , Gagoski Borjan A. , Grant P. Ellen , Adalsteinsson Elfar , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study investigates whether two‐channel radiofrequency (RF) shimming can improve imaging without increasing specific absorption rate (SAR) for fetal MRI at 3T.

Methods

Transmit field () average and variation in the fetus was simulated in seven numerical pregnant body models. Safety was quantified by maternal and fetal peak local SAR and fetal average SAR. The shim parameter space was divided into improved (magnitude and homogeneity) and improved SAR regions, and an overlap where RF shimming improved both classes of metrics compared with birdcage mode was assessed. Additionally, the effect of fetal position, tissue detail, and dielectric properties on transmit field and SAR was studied.

Results

A region of subject‐specific RF shim parameter space improving both and SAR metrics was found for five of the seven models. Optimizing only metrics improved efficiency across models by 15% on average and 28% for the best‐case model. variation improved by 26% on average and 49% for the best case. However, for these shim settings, fetal SAR increased by up to 106%. The overlap region, where both and SAR metrics improve, showed an average efficiency improvement of 6% on average across models and 19% for the best‐case model. variation improved by 13% on average and 40% for the best case. RFS could also decrease maternal/fetal SAR by up to 49%/58%.

Conclusion

RF shimming can improve imaging compared with birdcage mode without increasing fetal and maternal SAR when a patient‐specific SAR model is incorporated into the shimming procedure.
Longitudinal patterns in fear of cancer progression in patients with rare, advanced cancers undergoing comprehensive tumour genomic profiling
Authors: Butow Phyllis , Müller Fabiola , Napier Christine E. , Bartley Nicci , Ballinger Mandy L. , Biesecker Barbara , Juraskova Ilona , Meiser Bettina , Schlub Timothy E. , Thomas David M. , Goldstein David , Best Megan C. ,   Members of the PiGeOn Project
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Fear of cancer progression (FCP) impacts quality of life and is a prevalent unmet need in patients diagnosed with advanced cancer, particularly as treatment options are reduced. We aimed to identify longitudinal patterns in FCP over 6 months in patients with advanced cancer receiving comprehensive tumour genomic profiling (CTGP) results, and their correlates.

Methods

Patients with pathologically confirmed metastatic disease (∼70% rare cancers) receiving or post their last line of standard therapy completed questionnaires at T0 (prior to CTGP), T1 (immediately post CTGP results) and T2 (2 months later).

Results

High stable (N = 52; 7.3%) and low/moderate stable (N = 56; 7.8%) FCP patterns over time typified the largest participant groups (N = 721). Those with an immediately actionable variant versus a non‐actionable variant (p = 0.045), with higher FCP (p < 0.001), and lower Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy—Spiritual Well‐being (FACIT‐Sp) scores (p = 0.006) at T0, had higher FCP at T1. Those with higher FCP at T0 (p < 0.001) and at T1 (p < 0.001), lower FACIT‐Sp scores at T1 (p = 0.001), lower education (p = 0.031) and female gender (p = 0.027) had higher FCP at T2.

Discussion

Routine screening for psychological/spiritual characteristics in those about to undergo CTGP may help to identify patients who may benefit from closer monitoring and provision of psychosocial support. Future studies should explore interventions to best address FCP in this vulnerable group, as interventions assessed to date have almost all addressed patients with curative cancers or newly diagnosed advanced disease.
Synthesis of a series of validoxylamine A esters and their biological activities
Authors: Lu Yuele , Ye Kang , Zhu Linjing , Cai Xiaoqing , Yang Shanshan , Li Jianfeng , Jiang Ruini , Fan Yongxian , Chen Xiaolong
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The worldwide reduction in food production due to pests and diseases is still an important challenge facing today. Validoxylamine A (VAA) is a natural polyhydroxyl compound derived from validamycin, acting as an efficient trehalase inhibitor with insecticidal and antifungal activities. To extend the application and discover green pesticide, a series of ester derivatives were prepared based on VAA as a lead compound. Their biological activities were investigated against three typically agricultural disease, Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Aphis craccivora.

RESULTS

This study involved 30 novel validoxylamine A fatty acid esters (VAFAEs) synthesized by Novozym 435 and they were characterized with high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR‐ESI‐MS) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR). Of these 30 derivatives, most compounds showed improved antifungal activity, and 12 novel compounds showed improved insecticidal activity. When reacted with pentadecanoic acid, compound 14 showed the highest inhibitory activity against R. solani [median effective concentration (EC50) 0.01 μmol L−1], while the EC50 value of VAA was 34.99 μmol L−1. Furthermore, 21 novel VAFAEs showed higher inhibitory activity against S. sclerotiorum. Validoxylamine A oleic acid ester, compound 21, exhibited the highest insecticidal activity against A. craccivora [median lethal concentration (LC50) 39.63 μmol L−1], while the LC50 value of Pymetrozine was 50.45 μmol L−1, a commercialized pesticide against A. craccivora.

CONCLUSION

Combining our results, esterification of VAA by introducing different acyl donors was beneficial for the development of new eco‐friendly drugs in the field of pesticides.