bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marginal Accuracy of Monolithic and Veneered Zirconia Crowns Fabricated by Conventional and Digital Workflows
Authors: Abduo Jaafar , Ho Grace , Centorame Alannah , Chohan Simran , Park Clara , Abdouni Ramiz , Le Phillip , Ngo Christopher
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To compare the marginal accuracy of zirconia crowns fabricated by different workflows (conventional and digital) and designs (monolithic and veneered).

Materials and Methods

A prepared maxillary first molar was used for the study. Four workflow combinations were evaluated: (1) intraoral scanning and monolithic zirconia (IOS‐M), (2) intraoral scanning and veneered zirconia (IOS‐V), (3) conventional impression and monolithic zirconia (IMP‐M), and (4) conventional impression and veneered zirconia (IMP‐V). All of the specimens had similar designs. The veneered groups had a buccal cutback for esthetic veneer application. A total of 10 crowns were produced in each workflow. The vertical and horizontal marginal accuracies were measured with a traveling microscope. Depending on the normality of the data, one‐way analysis of variance test or Kruskal‐Wallis test were applied to evaluate the differences among the groups (α = 0.05).

Results

The most superior vertical marginal accuracy was observed for IOS‐V (mean = 22.5 μm; SD = 6.7 μm), followed by IMP‐V (mean = 23.9 μm; SD = 7.8 μm), IOS‐M (mean = 28.7 μm; SD = 10.3 μm), and IMP‐M (mean = 39.8 μm; SD = 22.0 μm), respectively (p < 0.001). The IOS‐M had the greatest mean horizontal discrepancies (mean = 23.9 μm; SD = 4.3 μm) followed by IMP‐M (mean = 21.3 μm; SD = 5.7 μm), IMP‐V (mean = 19.2 μm; SD = 5.3 μm) and IOS‐V (mean = 17.6 μm; SD = 5.7 μm) (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Monolithic zirconia crowns fabricated digitally had superior marginal accuracy than monolithic zirconia crowns fabricated conventionally. Esthetic buccal veneering of predominantly monolithic zirconia copings improved the vertical and horizontal marginal accuracies.
Tenofovir versus entecavir for tertiary prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis B infection after curative therapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Giri Suprabhat , Agrawal Dhiraj , Afzalpurkar Shivaraj , Gopan Amrit , Angadi Sumaswi , Sundaram Sridhar
Published: November 2022

Entecavir (ETV) and Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) are the first‐line drugs for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, the impact of these two antiviral agents on the outcome of HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative therapy remains to be explored. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effect of ETV and TDF on recurrence and mortality after curative treatment for HBV‐related HCC. A comprehensive literature search of multiple electronic databases was conducted from 2000 to January 2022 for studies comparing ETV and TDF for HBV‐related HCC patients after curative therapy. The adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) were pooled using a random‐effects model. A total of nine studies with 5298 patients were included in the final meta‐analysis. TDF was associated with a lower risk of HCC recurrence [aHR 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–0.81] compared to HCC. TDF reduced the risk of late recurrence compared to ETV (aHR 0.58, 95% CI 0.45–0.76) but not early recurrence (aHR 0.88, 95% CI 0.76–1.02). The mortality risk was also lower with TDF compared to ETV (aHR 0.62, 95% CI 0.50–0.77). TDF was associated with a lower risk of recurrence and mortality than ETV after resection or ablation of HBV‐related HCC. Further prospective randomized controlled studies are warranted to validate these results.
Effects of Chinese fitness dancing on lower limb strength and fall risk in middle‐aged and older women: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Feng Yan , Liu Jing , Si Jingmei
Published: November 2022

This study sought to identify the effect of Chinese fitness dancing on lower limb strength and fall risk in middle‐aged and older women. The MicroFET3 portable muscle strength tester, the FreeStep test system, and tests to evaluate fall risk were used to measure the maximum muscle strength, fall risk index, and static balance ability of extensor muscle groups in the lower limbs. Compared with the irregular exercise group, the maximum muscle strength of extensor muscle groups in the lower limb, five sit‐to‐stand test timings, fall risk index, static balance ability, and lower limb flexibility did not improve significantly in the 1‐year regular exercise group (p > 0.01). However, these indicators were significantly improved in the 10‐year regular exercise group compared with the 1‐year regular exercise group (p < 0.01). Long‐term regular participation in Chinese fitness dancing significantly increased muscle strength in the lower limbs and effectively lowered the fall risk index in middle‐aged and older women. Thus, long‐term regular participation in Chinese fitness dancing can be used as a preventive measure to increase muscle strength in the lower limbs and reduce the risk of falls in middle‐aged and older women.
Rhizosphere effect of nanoscale zero‐valent iron on mycorrhiza‐dependent maize assimilation
Authors: Yang Yu‐Miao , Zhu Ying , Naseer Minha , Wang Qi , Li Guang , Tao Hong‐Yan , Zhu Shuang‐Guo , Wang Bao‐Zhong , Wang Wei , Xiong You‐Cai
Published: November 2022

Rhizosphere effect of nanoscale zero‐valent iron (nZVI) is crucial but little reported. Maize seeds were dressed with four nZVI concentrations (0, 1.0, 1.5, 2 g kg−1) and inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) (Funneliformis mosseae). The SEM images illuminated that excessive nZVI particles (2 g kg−1) were agglomerated on the surface of hyphae and spore, causing severe deformation and inactivation of AMF symbionts and thereafter inhibiting water uptake in maize seedlings. This restrained the scavenging effects of enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase) and non‐enzymatic compounds (proline & malondialdehyde) on ROS, and leaf photoreduction activity and gas exchange ability (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the inoculation with AMF effectively alleviated above negative effects. In contrast, appropriate dose of nZVI, that is, ≤1.5 g kg−1, can be evenly distributed on the hyphae surface and form the ordered symbionts with AMF. This help massively to enhance hyphae growth and water and nutrient uptake. The enhanced mycorrhizal infection turned to promote rhizosphere symbiont activity and leaf Rubisco and Rubisco activase activity. Light compensation point was massively lowered, which increased photosynthetic carbon supply for AMF symbionts. Particularly, such priming effects were evidently enhanced by drought stress. Our findings provided a novel insight into functional role of nZVI in agriculture and AMF‐led green production.
Isoprenylation modification is required for HIPP1‐mediated powdery mildew resistance in wheat
Authors: Wang Zongkuan , Zhang Heng , Li Yingbo , Chen Yiming , Tang Xiong , Zhao Jia , Yu Feifei , Wang Haiyan , Xiao Jin , Liu Jia , Zhang Xu , Sun Li , Xie Qi , Wang Xiue
Published: November 2022

Powdery mildew (Pm), caused by Blumeria graminis f.sp. tritici (Bgt), is one of the most important wheat diseases. Heavy‐metal‐associated isoprenylated plant protein (HIPP1) has been proved playing important roles in response to biotic and a biotic stress. In present study, we proved HIPP1‐V from Haynalidia villosa is a positive regulator in Pm resistance. HIPP1‐V was rapidly induced by Bgt. Transiently or stably heterologous overexpressing HIPP1‐V in wheat suppressed the haustorium formation and enhanced Pm resistance. HIPP1‐V isoprenylation was critical for plasma membrane (PM) localization, interaction with E3‐ligase CMPG1‐V and function in Pm resistance. Bgt infection recruited the isoprenylated HIPP1‐V and CMPG1s on PM; blocking the HIPP1 isoprenylation reduced such recruitment and compromised the resistance of OE‐CMPG1‐V and OE‐HIPP1‐V. Overexpressing HIPP1‐VC148G could not enhance Pm resistance. These indicated the Pm resistance was dependent on HIPP1‐V's isoprenylation. DGEs related to the ROS and SA pathways were remarkably enriched in OE‐HIPP1‐V, revealing their involvement in Pm resistance. Our results provide evidence on the important role of protein isoprenylation in plant defense.
The regulation of plant lignin biosynthesis under boron deficiency conditions
Authors: Dong Xiaochang , Jiang Cuncang , Wei Shuwei , Jiao Huijun , Ran Kun , Dong Ran , Wang Shaomin
Published: November 2022

Boron (B) is a required micronutrient that is crucial for the growth and development of vascular plants. A deficiency in B is generally regarded as a limiting factor affecting agricultural production in many parts of the world. Boron is involved in the metabolism of plant lignin and additionally, B deficiency can lead to the excessive accumulation of lignin in plant leaves/roots, resulting in corking symptoms and inhibited growth. However, the effect of B on lignin biosynthesis is not as well characterized as the specific function of B in the cell wall. In this article, recent studies on the regulation of lignin biosynthesis in plants under low‐B stress conditions are reviewed. Moreover, the following possible mechanisms underlying the lignin synthesis promoted by B deficiency are discussed: (1) the accumulation of phenolic substances during B deficiency directly enhances lignin synthesis; (2) excess H2O2 has a dual function to the enhancement of lignin under boron deficiency conditions, serving as a substrate and a signaling molecule; and (3) B deficiency regulates lignin synthesis through the expression of genes encoding transcription factors such as MYBs. Finally, future studies regarding physiology, molecules, and transcriptional regulation may reveal the mechanism(s) mediating the relationship between lignin synthesis and B deficiency. This review provides new insights and important references for future research and the enhancement of plant B nutrition.
Conditional Independence Testing in Hilbert Spaces with Applications to Functional Data Analysis
Authors: Lundborg Anton Rask , Shah Rajen D. , Peters Jonas
Published: November 2022

We study the problem of testing the null hypothesis that X and Y are conditionally independent given Z, where each of X, Y and Z may be functional random variables. This generalises testing the significance of X in a regression model of scalar response Y on functional regressors X and Z. We show, however, that even in the idealised setting where additionally (X, Y, Z) has a Gaussian distribution, the power of any test cannot exceed its size. Further modelling assumptions are needed and we argue that a convenient way of specifying these assumptions is based on choosing methods for regressing each of X and Y on Z. We propose a test statistic involving inner products of the resulting residuals that is simple to compute and calibrate: type I error is controlled uniformly when the in-sample prediction errors are sufficiently small. We show this requirement is met by ridge regression in functional linear model settings without requiring any eigen-spacing conditions or lower bounds on the eigenvalues of the covariance of the functional regressor. We apply our test in constructing confidence intervals for truncation points in truncated functional linear models and testing for edges in a functional graphical model for EEG data.
Fully Coupled Analysis of Flutter Induced Limit Cycles: Frequency vs. Time Domain Methods
Authors: Berthold Christian , Groß Johann , Frey Christian , Krack Malte
Published: November 2022

To save resources and reduce emissions, it is crucial to reduce weight of aircraft engines and further increase aerodynamic efficiency of gas and steam turbines. For turbine blades these goals often lead to flutter. Thus, innovative flutter-tolerant designs are explored, where flutter induces limit cycle oscillations (LCOs) of tolerable yet nonzero level. Flutter represents a self-excitation mechanism and, in the linear case, would lead to exponential divergence. Flutter-induced LCOs are therefore an inherently nonlinear phenomenon. The saturation of flutter-induced vibrations can be caused by nonlinear frictional contact interactions e.g. in tip shroud interfaces. To develop flutter-tolerant designs, efficient methods are required which compute LCOs based on an appropriate modeling of elastic, inertia, aerodynamic and contact forces.

We recently developed a Frequency Domain Fluid-Structure Interaction (FD-FSI) solver for flutter-induced LCOs. The solver relies on the Harmonic Balance method applied to the structure as well as the fluid domain. It was shown that especially for long and slender blades with friction in shroud interfaces and strong aerodynamic influence, a coupled analysis can significantly increase the accuracy of predicted LCOs compared to the current state-of-the-art methods. Conventional methods do not properly account for the nonlinear change of frequency and deflection shape, and the effect of these changes on the aerodynamic damping, and thus fail in predicting certain LCOs at all.

In the current work the FD-FSI solver is numerically validated against Time Domain Fluid-Structure Interaction (TD-FSI) simulations. As a test case a shrouded low pressure turbine with friction in the shroud interfaces is considered. The point of operation is highly loaded and transonic in order to make the test case challenging.

Apart from a successful validation of the FD-FSI solver, we shed light on important advantages and disadvantages of both solvers. Due to the lack of robust phase-lag boundary conditions for time domain solvers, a full blade row must be simulated. Thus, the FD-FSI solver typically requires only a fraction of the computational costs. Moreover, the FD-FSI solver contributes to an increased physical understanding of the coupled vibrations: By analyzing the contribution of individual harmonics, we analyze why unexpected even harmonics appear in a certain LCO. On the other hand, the FD-FSI solver does not provide information on the asymptotic stability of the LCOs and is strictly limited to periodic oscillations. Indeed, quasi-periodic limit torus oscillations (LTOs) appear in our test case. Using the TD-FSI solver, we confirm the internal combination resonance, postulated recently as necessary condition for LTOs, for the first time, in a fully coupled analysis.
Component Tests and Numerical Investigations to Determine the Lifetime and Failure Behavior of End Stage Blades
Authors: Frank Lukas , Weihe Stefan
Published: November 2022

The paper focuses on experimental and numerical fatigue assessment procedures to evaluate the influence of multiaxial stress state caused by high centrifugal forces superimposed with bending loads due to blade vibrations on the lifetime of end stage blades from steam turbines. The experimental investigations on original-sized end stage blades were carried out on a test rig specially developed for high forces and multicomponent force application. This was based on detailed numerical simulations by the MPA University of Stuttgart. During the fractographic post-examinations of the tested blades using magnetic particle inspection, light and scanning electron microscopes, two competing damage mechanisms were identified, that occurred at different locations. Numerical investigations by means of elastic-plastic finite element analyses were carried out to estimate the local stress conditions acting in the blade root. The local stresses and strains were post-processed using the critical plane approach and advanced multiaxial fatigue damage parameters. Due to the high stress gradients at the edge of contact, over-conservative predictions may result if their effects are not taken into account. Based on the critical plane method in conjunction with fatigue damage parameters, an approach taking the stress gradient into consideration was developed to predict the fatigue life of the end stage blades. The approach is verified by the component tests on original-sized blades.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Turbine Generator Shaft Trains: Evaluation of Bifurcation Sets Applying Numerical Continuation
Authors: Gavalas Ioannis , Chasalevris Athanasios
Published: November 2022

The nonlinear dynamics of turbine generator shaft trains for power generation are investigated in this paper. Realistic models of rotors, pedestals, and nonlinear bearings of partial arc and lemon bore configuration are implemented to compose a nonlinear set of differential equations for autonomous (balanced) and non-autonomous (unbalanced - per ISO) cases. The solution branches of the dynamic system are evaluated with the pseudo arc length continuation programmed by the authors, and the respective limit cycles are evaluated by an orthogonal collocation method, and investigated on their stability properties and quality of motion for the respective key design parameters for the rotor dynamic design of such systems, namely: bearing profile and respective pad length, preload and offset, pedestal stiffness and elevation (misalignment), and rotor slenderness. Model order reduction is applied to the finite element rotor model and the reduced system is validated in terms of unbalance response and stability characteristics.

The main conclusion of the current investigation is that the system has the potential to develop instabilities in rotating speeds lower than the threshold speed of instability (evaluated by the linear approach) for specific unbalance magnitude and design properties. Unbalance response (with stable and unstable branches) is evaluated in severely reduced time compared to this applying time integration methods, enabling nonlinear rotor dynamic design of such systems as a standard procedure, and revealing the complete potential of motions (not only local).
Mistuning Effects on Aero-Elastic Stability of Civil Transonic Fan Blades
Authors: Lian Bo , Zhu Xiaocheng , Du Zhaohui
Published: November 2022

Flutter seriously affects the safety and reliability of aeroengine. The blade mistuning is inevitable due to machining error and service wear, which has a significant influence on flutter stability. In this paper, the eigenvalue method is used to calculate the aerodynamic damping of transonic fan blades of civil aviation engine at different nodal diameters (NDs) and structural modes. The results show that under the design condition, the first three structural modes of the blade are aero-elastic stable for each ND, and the aerodynamic damping gets the minimum at ND1 for the first bending mode. As the back pressure deviates from design condition towards stall, the aerodynamic damping obviously decrease and even negative aerodynamic damping occurs at normalized mass flow rate of 0.930. Six kinds of mistuning patterns are considered based on the eigenvalue method, divided into two categories: structural mistuning and aerodynamic mistuning, where structural mistuning includes alternate mistuning, sinusoidal mistuning and random mistuning. The alternate mistuning has better improvement on flutter suppression than the sinusoidal mistuning with the same frequency offset, though further increasing the amount of mistuning cannot provide extra aero-damping when the frequency offset reaches a critical value of 7%. For the aerodynamic mistuning, the improvement of aero-damping is limited in comparison with the structural mistuning, especially for the random mistuning through Monte Carlo simulations. Based on the analysis of eigenvectors, the single blade aerodynamic mistuning breaks the periodic pattern in travelling wave mode, which tends to make the aero-elastic systems stable. While the symmetry group mistuning maintains the periodicity and destabilizes the aero-elastic system.
Evaluating the Aerodynamic Damping at Shock Wave Boundary Layer Interacting Flow Conditions With Harmonic Balance
Authors: Heners Jan Philipp , Carraro Thomas , Frey Christian , Grüber Björn
Published: November 2022

The aerodynamic damping of a stator vane located in a rear stage of a high pressure compressor is evaluated at transonic flow conditions by numerical means. The results of a solution method based on temporal linearization around a steady RANS state are compared to results generated by relying on a state-of-the-art harmonic balance solver. It is found that the time-linearized method is not capable to reproduce the damping behavior in a sufficient manner for the majority of assessed nodal diameters. The limitations of the time-linearized method consisting in expansion around an imperfect steady RANS state, neglecting non-linear contributions and considering turbulence to be frozen at its steady state are evaluated and quantified.

Furthermore, the presence of unsteady content induced by shock wave boundary layer interaction can be identified by performing a full-annulus URANS simulation based on time-integration. For a limited range of nodal diameters, this shock boundary layer interaction locks in to the assessed flutter motion and affects the damping behavior substantially. It is demonstrated that the mechanism of the shock wave boundary layer interaction can be reproduced with harmonic balance in accordance to the time-integration method. Coupling the eigenmode of interest and the identified shock boundary layer interaction via the harmonic balance method allows to predict the aerodynamic damping for the affected nodal diameters.
A Comparative Study of Crystal Visco-Plastic Modeling of Directionally Solidified Nickel-Base Superalloys
Authors: Wijeyeratne Navindra , Irmak Firat , Gordon Ali P.
Published: November 2022

Nickel-base superalloys (NBSAs) are a group of materials that are used in high-temperature applications such as gas turbine components. These materials are renowned for their superior strength and fatigue properties at high temperatures. This work primarily focuses on Directionally solidified (DS) NBSAs. Directionally solidified materials are comprised of columnar grains which are parallel to the <001> direction. The alignment of the grain boundaries in the direction of the stress axis enhances the strength properties of these materials at elevated temperatures. To improve the design process, utilizing a framework consisting of numerical simulations coupled with experimental analysis is essential. Due to the grain structure the properties of DS-NBSAs exhibit temperature dependence and anisotropic behavior. Crystal visco-plastic (CVP) models can simulate the effects of temperature and orientation dependence under a variety of loading conditions such as tensile, low cycle fatigue (LCF), and thermomechanical fatigue (TMF). The formulation of the CVP model comprises a flow rule combined with internal state variables to define the shearing rate for each slip system. The internal state variable captures the kinematic and isotropic hardening effects. The crystallographic slip is described by incorporating the necessary octahedral, cubic, and cross slip systems. The CVP model is initially developed for a single crystal (SX) material and then adapted to DS material to represent the columnar grain structure. Modeling DS materials is significantly more complex than single crystal (SX) materials since the grains are entangled at the boundary. In past studies, the development of CVP models for DS materials was mainly accomplished by applying the SX CVP model to the DS materials implicitly or explicitly. The Implicit approach for the DS CVP model can be developed by extending the SX CVP model where each individual grain is modeled as a single crystal. The explicit method maps the columnar grains and orientation onto a plane finite element model. Both of these modeling approaches require the application of the SX CVP model to multiple grains which consequently results in them being highly computationally expensive. A crystal visco-plastic model for DS materials that circumvents the modeling of individual grains was presented by the authors at turbo expo 2021. The primary objective of this work is to utilize the three types of DS-CVP models for the same materials to investigate their performance. Comparisons will be performed at various temperatures and orientations. The results of the models are compared to analyze their pros and cons and applicability etc. Comparisons of these three types of modeling approaches applied to the same material have not been presented before in the literature and will provide an excellent insight into the usability of these constitutive models.
Homologous gene regulatory networks control development of apical organs and brains in Bilateria
Authors: Feuda Roberto , Peter Isabelle S.
Published: November 2022

Apical organs are relatively simple larval nervous systems. The extent to which apical organs are evolutionarily related to the more complex nervous systems of other animals remains unclear. To identify common developmental mechanisms, we analyzed the gene regulatory network (GRN) controlling the development of the apical organ in sea urchins. We characterized the developmental expression of 30 transcription factors and identified key regulatory functions for FoxQ2, Hbn, Delta/Notch signaling, and SoxC in the patterning of the apical organ and the specification of neurons. Almost the entire set of apical transcription factors is expressed in the nervous system of worms, flies, zebrafish, frogs, and mice. Furthermore, a regulatory module controlling the axial patterning of the vertebrate brain is expressed in the ectoderm of sea urchin embryos. We conclude that GRNs controlling the formation of bilaterian nervous systems share a common origin and that the apical GRN likely resembles an ancestral regulatory program.
Lipids mediate supramolecular outer membrane protein assembly in bacteria
Authors: Webby Melissa N. , Oluwole Abraham O. , Pedebos Conrado , Inns Patrick G. , Olerinyova Anna , Prakaash Dheeraj , Housden Nicholas G. , Benn Georgina , Sun Dawei , Hoogenboom Bart W. , Kukura Philipp , Mohammed Shabaz , Robinson Carol V. , Khalid Syma , Kleanthous Colin
Published: November 2022

β Barrel outer membrane proteins (OMPs) cluster into supramolecular assemblies that give function to the outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria. How such assemblies form is unknown. Here, through photoactivatable cross-linking into the
Escherichia coli
OM, coupled with simulations, and biochemical and biophysical analysis, we uncover the basis for OMP clustering in vivo. OMPs are typically surrounded by an annular shell of asymmetric lipids that mediate higher-order complexes with neighboring OMPs. OMP assemblies center on the abundant porins OmpF and OmpC, against which low-abundance monomeric β barrels, such as TonB-dependent transporters, are packed. Our study reveals OMP-lipid-OMP complexes to be the basic unit of supramolecular OMP assembly that, by extending across the entire cell surface, couples the requisite multifunctionality of the OM to its stability and impermeability.
Untangling the roles of TOP2A and TOP2B in transcription and cancer
Authors: Uusküla-Reimand Liis , Wilson Michael D.
Published: November 2022

Type II topoisomerases (TOP2) are conserved regulators of chromatin topology that catalyze reversible DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and are essential for maintaining genomic integrity in diverse dynamic processes such as transcription, replication, and cell division. While controlled TOP2-mediated DSBs are an elegant solution to topological constraints of DNA, DSBs also contribute to the emergence of chromosomal translocations and mutations that drive cancer. The central importance of TOP2 enzymes as frontline chemotherapeutic targets is well known; however, their precise biological functions and impact in cancer development are still poorly understood. In this review, we provide an updated overview of TOP2A and TOP2B in the regulation of chromatin topology and transcription, and discuss the recent discoveries linking TOP2 activities with cancer pathogenesis.
Aluminum formate, Al(HCOO)
3
: An earth-abundant, scalable, and highly selective material for CO
2
capture
Authors: Evans Hayden A. , Mullangi Dinesh , Deng Zeyu , Wang Yuxiang , Peh Shing Bo , Wei Fengxia , Wang John , Brown Craig M. , Zhao Dan , Canepa Pieremanuele , Cheetham Anthony K.
Published: November 2022

A combination of gas adsorption and gas breakthrough measurements show that the metal-organic framework, Al(HCOO)
3
(ALF), which can be made inexpensively from commodity chemicals, exhibits excellent CO
2
adsorption capacities and outstanding CO
2
/N
2
selectivity that enable it to remove CO
2
from dried CO
2
-containing gas streams at elevated temperatures (323 kelvin). Notably, ALF is scalable, readily pelletized, stable to SO
2
and NO, and simple to regenerate. Density functional theory calculations and in situ neutron diffraction studies reveal that the preferential adsorption of CO
2
is a size-selective separation that depends on the subtle difference between the kinetic diameters of CO
2
and N
2
. The findings are supported by additional measurements, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and variable temperature powder and single-crystal x-ray diffraction.
Complete Genome Sequence of Rhodococcus erythropolis JCM 2895, an Antibiotic Protein-Producing Strain
Authors: Kitagawa Wataru , Hata Miyako
Published: November 2022

The complete genome sequence of
Rhodococcus erythropolis
JCM 2895, an antibiotic protein-producing strain, was determined. It consists of a 6,455,263-bp chromosome, one linear plasmid (pR09L01 [227,989 bp]), and three circular plasmids (pR09C01 [79,600 bp], pREC01 [5,420 bp], and pREC02 [5,444 bp]).
Impact of stream power gradients on storage of sediment and carbon on channel margins and floodplains
Authors: Gartner John D. , Renshaw Carl E. , Landis Joshua , Magilligan Francis J.
Published: November 2022

Spatial complexity impacts the resilience of river ecosystems by mediating processes that control the sources and sinks of sediment and organic material. Using four independent geochemical tracers and three morphometric indices, we show that downstream spatial gradients in stream power (Ω) predict storage of material in the channels and margins and/or floodplains. A field test in a 48 km2 watershed demonstrates that reaches with downstream decreases in Ω coincide with wider floodplains and elevated inventories of 137Cs, 210Pbex (ex—excess), and organic matter in locations of the ~3 to 20 yr floodplain. In contrast, reaches with downstream increases in Ω coincide with narrower floodplains and decreased inventories of 137Cs, 210Pbex, and organic matter. The occurrence of in-channel bedrock exposures and the activity of short-lived 7Be in within-channel sediments also correlate with downstream Ω gradients, demonstrating a link, over both short and long time scales, between withinchannel processes and floodplain-forming processes. The combined geochemical and physical characteristics demonstrate the importance of downstream gradients in sediment transport, characterized by downstream changes in stream power rather than at-a-point stream power, in determining spatial complexity in carbon and sediment storage at intermediate scales (102 to 103 m) in river systems.
Major-element geochemistry of pelites
Authors: Forshaw Jacob B. , Pattison David R.M.
Published: November 2022

Pelites (shales and mudstones) are arguably the most important rock type for interpreting metamorphism. Their significance derives from their widespread occurrence and the range of mineral assemblages they develop at different conditions of pressure and temperature. We compiled a global database of 5729 major-element whole-rock analyses of pelites from different metamorphic grades (shales to granulite-facies paragneisses) to (1) determine an average composition, (2) examine the range and variability in their composition, and (3) assess if there is evidence for grade-related geochemical changes. Median values are given instead of average values to eliminate the effect of extremes. The median worldwide pelite is as follows (anhydrous, values in wt%): SiO2 = 64.13, TiO2 = 0.91, Al2O3 = 19.63, FeOtotal = 6.85, MnO = 0.08, MgO = 2.41, CaO = 0.65, Na2O = 1.38, and K2O = 3.95. The median XMg = MgO/(MgO + FeOtotal) in moles is 0.39. The median XFe3+ = 2 × Fe2O3/(2 × Fe2O3 + FeO) in moles was measured in 1964 samples and is 0.23. On an Al2O3-FeO-MgO (AFM) diagram, the median worldwide pelite plots within a strong clustering of analyses between = projected molar MgO/(MgO + FeOtotal) = 0.30–0.55 (median = 0.42) and AMs = molar [Al2O3 – (3 × K2O)]/[Al2O3 – (3 × K2O) + FeOtotal + MgO] = 0.0–0.4 (median = 0.19). Pelites show a continuous decrease in volatile content with increasing meta-morphic grade and a decrease in XFe3+ from the diagenetic to biotite zone. Lower median SiO2 values and higher median Al2O3 and AMs values in the porphyroblast and subsolidus sillimanite or K-feldspar zones, as well as higher median MnO values in the garnet zone, may reflect sampling bias or metasomatism.
Risk factors for workplace bullying, severe psychological distress and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic among the general working population in Japan: a large-scale cross-sectional study
Authors: Tsuno Kanami , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To investigate the risk factors for workplace bullying and mental health outcomes among workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

A nationwide online survey was conducted from August to September 2020 in Japan.

Participants

16 384 workers (men: n=9565; women: n=6789).

Main outcome variables

Workplace bullying was measured by one item from the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire; severe psychological distress according to the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (≥13) and suicidal ideation by one item. Prevalence ratios were calculated by modified Poisson regression analyses adjusting for potential confounders such as gender, age, occupational characteristics and a prior history of depression.

Results

Overall, 15% of workers experienced workplace bullying, 9% had severe psychological distress and 12% had suicidal ideation during the second and third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The results of this study showed men, executives, managers and permanent employees had a higher risk of bullying than women or part-time workers. Increased physical and psychological demands were common risk factors for bullying, severe psychological distress and suicidal ideation. Starting to work from home was a significant predictor for adverse mental health outcomes but a preventive factor against workplace bullying.

Conclusions

The results of this study showed different high-risk groups for bullying or mental health during the pandemic. Any intervention to decrease workplace bullying or mental health problems should focus not only on previously reported vulnerable workers but also workers who have experienced a change in work style or job demands.
Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam COVID-19 exposure index: a cross-sectional analysis of the impact of the pandemic on daily functioning of older adults
Authors: Hoogendijk Emiel O , Schuster Noah A , van Tilburg Theo G , Schaap Laura A , Suanet Bianca , De Breij Sascha , Kok Almar AL , Van Schoor Natasja M , Timmermans Erik J , de Jongh Renate T , Visser Marjolein , Huisman Martijn
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop an index to measure older adults’ exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic and to study its association with various domains of functioning.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA), a cohort study in the Netherlands.

Participants

Community-dwelling older adults aged 62–102 years (n=1089) who participated in the LASA COVID-19 study (June–September 2020), just after the first wave of the pandemic.

Primary outcome measures

A 35-item COVID-19 exposure index with a score ranging between 0 and 1 was developed, including items that assess the extent to which the COVID-19 situation affected daily lives of older adults. Descriptive characteristics of the index were studied, stratified by several sociodemographic factors. Logistic regression analyses were performed to study associations between the exposure index and several indicators of functioning (functional limitations, anxiety, depression and loneliness).

Results

The mean COVID-19 exposure index score was 0.20 (SD 0.10). Scores were relatively high among women and in the southern region of the Netherlands. In models adjusted for sociodemographic factors and prepandemic functioning (2018–2019), those with scores in the highest tertile of the exposure index were more likely to report functional limitations (OR: 2.24; 95% CI: 1.48 to 3.38), anxiety symptoms (OR: 3.14; 95% CI: 1.82 to 5.44), depressive symptoms (OR: 2.49; 95% CI: 1.55 to 4.00) and loneliness (OR: 2.97; 95% CI: 2.08 to 4.26) than those in the lowest tertile.

Conclusions

Among older adults in the Netherlands, higher exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with worse functioning in the physical, mental and social domain. The newly developed exposure index may be used to identify persons for whom targeted interventions are needed to maintain or improve functioning during the pandemic or postpandemic.
Identification of patient-related, healthcare-related and knowledge-related factors associated with inadequate blood pressure control in outpatients: a cross-sectional study in Serbia
Authors: Horvat Olga , Halgato Tinde , Stojšić-Milosavljević Anastazija , Paut Kusturica Milica , Kovačević Zorana , Bukumiric Dragica , Tomas Ana
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To determine rate of blood pressure (BP) control and to analyse patient-related, medication-related and healthcare system-related factors associated with poor BP control in outpatients with hypertension (HT).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Two study sites with different levels of healthcare (primary healthcare (PHC) and secondary level of healthcare (SHC)) in Vojvodina, Northern Serbia.

Participants

A total of 581 patients (response rate 96.8%) visiting their primary care physician between July 2019 and June 2020 filled out a pretested semistructured questionnaire and had a BP reading during their regular appointments.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Data on demographics, medication, BP control (target systolic BP≤140 mm Hg and∕ or diastolic BP≤90 mm Hg) and knowledge on HT was collected. Based on the median of knowledge score, patients were classified as having poor, average and adequate knowledge.

Results

Majority of the respondents (74.9%) had poorly controlled BP and had HT longer than 10 years. Larger number of patients at PHC site was managed with monotherapy while at the SHC majority received three or more antihypertensive drugs. Respondents from SHC showed a significantly lower knowledge score (9, 2–15) compared with the respondents from PHC (11, 4–15, p=0.001). The share of respondents with adequate knowledge on HT was significantly higher in the group with good BP control (26% and 9.2%, respectively). In a multivariate regression analysis, factors associated with poor BP control were knowledge (B=−1.091; p<0001), number of drugs (B=0536; p<0001) and complications (B=0898; p=0004).

Conclusions

Poor BP control is common in outpatients in Serbia, irrespective of the availability of different levels of healthcare. Patients with poor knowledge on HT, with complications of HT and those with multiple antihypertensive drugs, were at particular risk of poor BP control. Our study could serve as a basis for targeted interventions to improve HT management.
Clinical outcomes of automated versus continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis for end-stage kidney disease: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shi Xinmiao , Du Hui , Zhang Zhouhang , Zhou Yun
Published: November 2022

Introduction

An increasing number of studies comparing automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) in clinical outcomes have been published since the publication of a systematic review and meta-analysis including three randomised controlled trials in 2007. We will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore more clinical outcomes of APD versus CAPD for end-stage kidney disease.

Methods and analysis

The protocol is conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols guidelines. Three databases—PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library—will be searched comprehensively from inception to 16 June 2022, without language restriction. Studies reporting clinical outcomes comparing APD with CAPD will be included. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts and then obtain and assess full texts of potential relevant articles for eligibility following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodological quality of included observational studies will be assessed by using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The risk of bias of included randomised controlled studies will be assessed by using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Relative risk for dichotomous outcomes and standard mean difference for continuous outcomes with corresponding 95%CIswill be pooled for summary effects. Cochrane Q test andI2values will be used to assess heterogeneity between studies. To assess and explore the source of heterogeneity, subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses will be conducted, and meta-regression, funnel plot and Egger’s test will be performed if there are no less than 10 studies. Analyses will be performed using STATA software, V.13.0 (STATA Corporation, College Station, Texas, USA).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not applicable as no personal information is collected from patients. The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal or disseminated in relevant academic conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022311401.
Prevalence of homocysteinemia and effect of vitamin supplementation in retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Levi Maxwell , Harb Amro A , Trippiedi Andrew , Rodriguez Sophia , Vianna Nicholas , Higgins Lisa M , Kallina Lauren , Angioletti Lee , Gutman Justin , Higgins Patrick M
Published: November 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of homocysteinemia in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). We investigated the association of B complex vitamin (BCV) and multivitamin (MVI) supplementation on homocysteine levels in RVO patients.

Methods and analysis

This cross-sectional study occurred at the Retina Center of New Jersey. We investigated 312 patients diagnosed with RVO between 2011 and 2019. Homocysteine levels were measured on diagnosis of RVO and 4–8 weeks after, following recommended daily supplementation with BCV, MVI or combination MVI+BCV.

Results

The median patient age was 71.00, IQR (61.00, 78.25), with 164 (52.6%) being women. Prevalence of homocysteinemia (>13 µmol/L) was 150 of 312 (48.1%), with a median baseline homocysteine level of 12.80 (10.17, 15.90) µmol/L. The follow-up cohort, 105 patients, demonstrated significant reduction in median homocysteine levels from 14.50 (12.30, 17.90) to 10.70 (9.30, 13.50) µmol/L following vitamin supplementation. Multivariate analysis found having baseline homocysteinemia was significantly associated with at least 25% reduction in homocysteine following vitamin supplementation.

Conclusions

In this study, 48.1% of patients with RVO had elevated homocysteine (>13 µmol/L). Supplementation with BCV or MVI+BCV was associated with a significant reduction in homocysteine from 14.50 (12.30, 17.90) to 10.70 (9.30, 13.50) µmol/L.
Feasibility of e-commerce pharmacy provision and acceptability of levonorgestrel 1.5 mg for pericoital use in urban and peri-urban settings in Kenya: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Odwe George , McCann Brent , Liambila Wilson , Vandermark Jessica , Mwanga Daniel , Anab Edna , Wanami Moses , Ramarao Saumya
Published: November 2022

Introduction

An ‘on-demand’ contraceptive pill may suit women having infrequent sex. We assessed the feasibility of e-commerce pharmacy provision and acceptability of levonorgestrel (LNG) 1.5 mg for pericoital use in Kenya.

Methods

A 12-month prospective, single-arm, open-label, interventional study conducted from August 2020 to August 2021. A total of 897 women aged 18–49 years at risk of pregnancy and having infrequent sex (ie, six times or fewer coital frequency/month) were screened and enrolled. We undertook univariate and bivariate analysis on multiple data points: enrolment dataset, bimonthly surveys, extended survey around 6-month follow-up, and e-commerce pharmacy sales log.

Results

A total of 2291 pericoital LNG 1.5 mg pill doses were dispensed to 300 women over a 12-month period mainly via the USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) platform. Of the 266 women who obtained the pill and completed the survey, most (83%) were satisfied/very satisfied with e-commerce platform services, citing convenience and ease of use. The pill was also acceptable. Of the 266 women who used it at least once, 94% were satisfied/very satisfied, likely to continue using and would recommend it to others; 86% used it within 24 hours before/after sex as recommended and most of the time they had sex; and 147 (55%) experienced side effects, mainly nausea, headache, changes in menstrual pattern, cramps and dizziness that were mild and tolerable.

Conclusions

E-commerce pharmacy provision of LNG 1.5 mg for pericoital use is feasible. In addition, a pericoital LNG 1.5 mg pill is acceptable among women having infrequent sex and could potentially address their unmet family planning needs.