bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of an Escherichia coli whole‐cell biocatalyst for geranyl glucoside production using directed evolution
Authors: Rüdiger Julian , Schwab Wilfried
Published: July 2021

Biotechnological production of glycosides is an economically competitive manufacturing alternative to classical chemical synthesis. Due to continuous improvement in production, glycosides can now be used in low‐cost products by various industries. However, many production systems still suffer from low yields. Directed evolution, coupled with a suitable screening method, can tackle this challenge. We generated glycosyltransferase mutants through error‐prone‐PCR and screened the library using a small‐scale whole‐cell biotransformation system to identify highly productive strains. The screening of only 176 colonies yielded three putative candidates. Detailed analysis revealed that the reason for the increase in product titer was mainly due to different expression effects of the mutant genes rather than improved enzyme kinetics. An up to 60‐fold increase in whole‐cell product quantity was achieved. Therefore, in addition to the quality of the mutant library, an efficient and stable expression system is crucial to achieve high concentrations of active enzyme and product, as formation of inclusion bodies and other inactive forms of the biocatalyst reduces productivity.
Liquid‐Assisted Mechanochemical Synthesis of LiI‐Doped Sulfide Glass Electrolyte
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Milad , Varzi Alberto , Tsujimura Tomoyuki , Aihara Yuichi , Passerini Stefano
Published: July 2021

Inorganic solid electrolytes (ISEs) gain tremendous attention during the past decade for application in energy storage. Among different classes of ISEs, sulfides are particularly appealing due to their higher ionic conductivity, ductility, and lower density compared with oxides. However, most of the preparation methods proposed so far require either the time‐consuming mechanical ball‐milling process or the energy‐consuming high‐temperature solid‐state reaction. Herein, a new and fast liquid‐assisted approach to synthesize LiI‐doped glassy Li2S‐P2S5 (LPS) with excellent electrochemical and morphological features is reported. The obtained solid electrolyte offers an ionic conductivity of 1.2 mS cm−1 at room temperature and establishes a rather stable interphase with lithium. These enable rather high critical current densities (up to 1 mA cm−2), as well as enhanced cathode active material utilization in solid‐state lithium metal cells.
Using MLP‐GABP and SVM with wavelet packet transform‐based feature extraction for fault diagnosis of a centrifugal pump
Authors: Al Tobi Maamar , Bevan Geraint , Wallace Peter , Harrison David , Okedu Kenneth Eloghene
Published: July 2021

This paper explores artificial intelligent training schemes based on multilayer perceptron, considering back propagation and genetic algorithm (GA). The hybrid scheme is compared with the traditional support vector machine approach in the literature to analyze both fault and normal scenarios of a centrifugal pump. A comparative analysis of the performance of the variables was carried out using both schemes. The study used features extracted for three decomposition levels based on wavelet packet transform. In order to investigate the effectiveness of the extracted features, two mother wavelets were investigated. The salient part of this work is the optimization of the hidden layers numbers using GA. Furthermore, this optimization process was extended to the multilayer perceptron neurons. The evaluation of the model system performance used for the study shows better response of the extracted features, and hidden layers variables including the selected neurons. Moreover, the applied training algorithm used in the work was able to enhance the classifications obtained considering the hybrid artificial intelligent scheme been proposed. This work has achieved a number of contributions like GA‐based selection of hidden layers and neuron, applied in neural network of centrifugal pump condition classification. Furthermore, a hybrid training method combining GA and back propagation (BP) algorithms has been applied for condition classification of a centrifugal pump. The obtained results have shown the good ability of the proposed methods and algorithms.
Strategies to work towards long-term sustainability and resiliency of nature-based solutions in coastal environments: A review and case studies
Authors: Cohn Jessica L. , Copp Franz Sara , Mandel Randy H. , Nack Christopher C. , Brainard Andrew S. , Eallonardo Anthony , Magar Victor
Published: July 2021

The need for sustainable and resilient long-term strategies for coastal restoration and development projects is largely the result of pressures brought by changing climate conditions and growing human populations along coastal boundaries. As anthropogenic impacts along our coasts increase, the demand for sustainable, nature-based solutions (NbS) will grow commensurately. Trusted approaches are needed for successful implementation of NbS, especially in regions hardest hit by environmental changes. Nearshore strategies for new construction and protection of existing coastal infrastructure are shifting rapidly from hardened approaches to more ecologically aligned techniques that work with natural forces and enhance natural habitat. This paper highlights the benefits of living shorelines composed of ecotypic native plants, wave attenuation structures for coastal protection, and managed retreat to restore coastal environments while supporting and maintaining natural habitats. We review several NbS and present two case studies to illustrate the value of incorporating nature-based approaches to vulnerable coastal environments and highlight the importance of maximizing synergies and understanding trade-offs in their long-term use. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:123–134. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

Trusted approaches are needed for successful implementation of NbS, especially in regions hardest hit by environmental changes. Nearshore strategies for new construction and protection of existing coastal infrastructure are shifting rapidly from hardened approaches to more ecologically aligned techniques that work with natural forces and enhance natural habitat. This paper highlights the benefits and shares approaches of implementing living shorelines composed of ecotypic native plants, wave attenuation structures for coastal protection, and managed retreat to restore coastal environments while supporting and maintaining natural habitats.
Circulating tryptophan metabolites and risk of colon cancer: Results from case‐control and prospective cohort studies
Authors: Papadimitriou Nikos , Gunter Marc J. , Murphy Neil , Gicquiau Audrey , Achaintre David , Brezina Stefanie , Gumpenberger Tanja , Baierl Andreas , Ose Jennifer , Geijsen Anne J. M. R. , van Roekel Eline H. , Gsur Andrea , Gigic Biljana , Habermann Nina , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Kampman Ellen , Weijenberg Matty P. , Ueland Per Magne , Kaaks Rudolf , Katzke Verena , Krogh Vittorio , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita Bas , Ardanaz Eva , Travis Ruth C. , Schulze Matthias B. , Sánchez Maria‐José , Colorado‐Yohar Sandra M. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Scalbert Augustin , Keski‐Rahkonen Pekka
Published: July 2021

Dysregulation of tryptophan metabolism has been linked to colorectal tumorigenesis; however, epidemiological studies investigating tryptophan metabolites in relation to colorectal cancer risk are limited. We studied associations of plasma tryptophan, serotonin and kynurenine with colon cancer risk in two studies with cancer patients and controls, and in one prospective cohort: ColoCare Study (110 patients/153 controls), the Colorectal Cancer Study of Austria (CORSA; 46 patients/390 controls) and the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC; 456 matched case‐control pairs). Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for colon cancer risk. Tryptophan was inversely associated with colon cancer risk in ColoCare (OR per 1‐SD = 0.44; 95% CI, 0.31‐0.64) and EPIC (OR per 1‐SD = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.74‐0.99). Comparing detectable vs nondetectable levels, serotonin was positively associated with colon cancer in CORSA (OR = 6.39; 95% CI, 3.61‐11.3) and EPIC (OR = 2.03; 95% CI, 1.20‐3.40). Kynurenine was inversely associated with colon cancer in ColoCare (OR per 1‐SD = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.55‐0.98), positively associated in CORSA (OR per 1‐SD = 1.79; 95% CI, 1.27‐2.52), while no association was observed in EPIC. The kynurenine‐to‐tryptophan ratio was positively associated with colon cancer in ColoCare (OR per 1‐SD = 1.38; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.84) and CORSA (OR per 1‐SD = 1.44; 95% CI, 1.06‐1.96), but not in EPIC. These results suggest that higher plasma tryptophan may be associated with lower colon cancer risk, while increased serotonin may be associated with a higher risk of colon cancer. The kynurenine‐to‐tryptophan ratio may also reflect altered tryptophan catabolism during colon cancer development.
Uterine rupture during pregnancy: The URIDA (uterine rupture international data acquisition) study
Authors: Tinelli Andrea , Kosmas Ioannis P. , Carugno Jose "Tony" , Carp Howard , Malvasi Antonio , Cohen Shlomo B. , Laganà Antonio Simone , Angelini Marta , Casadio Paolo , Chayo Jenifer , Cicinelli Ettore , Gerli Sandro , Palacios Jaraquemada Josè , Magnarelli Giulia , Medvediev Mykhailo V. , Metello Josè , Nappi Luigi , Okohue Jude , Sparic Radmila , Stefanović Radomir , Tzabari Avinoam , Vimercati Antonella
Published: July 2021

Objective

To describe the characteristics and peripartum outcomes of patients diagnosed with uterine rupture (UR) by an observational cohort retrospective study on 270 patients.

Methods

Demographic information, surgical history, symptoms, and postoperative outcome of women and neonates after UR were collected in a large database. The statistical analysis searched for correlation between UR, previous uterine interventions, fibroids, and the successive perinatal outcomes in women with previous UR.

Results

Uterine rupture was significantly associated with previous uterine surgery, occurring, on average, at 36 weeks of pregnancy in women also without previous uterine surgery. UR did not rise exponentially with an increasing number of uterine operations. Fibroids were related to UR. The earliest UR occurred at 159 days after hysteroscopic myomectomy, followed by laparoscopic myomectomy (251 days) and laparotomic myomectomy (253 days). Fertility preservation was feasible in several women. Gestational age and birth weight seemed not to be affected in the subsequent pregnancy.

Conclusion

Data analysis showed that previous laparoscopic and abdominal myomectomies were associated with UR in pregnancy, and hysteroscopic myomectomy was associated at earlier gestational ages. UR did not increase exponentially with an increasing number of previous scars. UR should not be considered a contraindication to future pregnancies.
The perception of high school students in The Gambia towards the practice of female genital mutilation
Authors: Sanneh Alieu B.
Published: July 2021

Synopsis

This study investigated the practice of female genital mutilation in The Gambia. The results of this study indicated that the opinion of female students on the practice of FGM has not changed (in that they support of FGM) as shown in Table 1.
Measuring mothers' representations of their infants: Psychometric properties of the clinical scales of the working model of the child interview in a low‐ to moderate‐risk sample
Authors: Sandnes Kjersti , Lydersen Stian , Berg Kårstad Silja , Berg‐Nielsen Turid Suzanne
Published: July 2021

The Working Model of the Child Interview (WMCI) is frequently used to measure parents' representations. Beyond the global categories (balanced, disengaged, distorted), the reliability, factor structure, and validity of all the 15 clinical scales have not previously been studied.

The WMCI was administered to 152 Norwegian mothers of infants (mean age = 7.3 months) recruited from community well‐baby clinics.

Interrater reliability was adequate for the global categories and moderate for the clinical scales. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis yielded three factors with evidence of factorial validity: Factor 1 balanced; factor 2 resentful; factor 3 apprehensive. Factor 1 corresponded with the original category balanced, while factor 2 and factor 3 corresponded with the original category distorted. Concurrent validity was supported as mothers with balanced representation (factor 1) were less stressed and the mother−infant interaction was more positive than that of mothers with resentful representation. Mothers with resentful or apprehensive representations (factor 2 and factor 3) reported more stress. The extracted factors and demographic variables correlated weakly or not at all, confirming discriminant validity. Our findings show that the clinical scales of the WMCI can be used in research with low‐ to moderate‐risk samples.
Progress and perspective of Li1 + xAlxTi2‐x(PO4)3 ceramic electrolyte in lithium batteries
Authors: Yang Ke , Chen Likun , Ma Jiabin , He Yan‐Bing , Kang Feiyu
Published: July 2021

The replacement of liquid organic electrolytes with solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) is a feasible way to solve the safety issues and improve the energy density of lithium batteries. Developing SSEs materials that can well match with high‐voltage cathodes and lithium metal anode is quite significant to develop high‐energy‐density lithium batteries. Li1 + xAlxTi2 ‐ x(PO4)3 (LATP) SSE with NASICON structure exhibits high ionic conductivity, low cost and superior air stability, which enable it as one of the most hopeful candidates for all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs). However, the high interfacial impedance between LATP and electrodes, and the severe interfacial side reactions with the lithium metal greatly limit its applications in ASSBs. This review introduces the crystal structure and ion transport mechanisms of LATP and summarizes the key factors affecting the ionic conductivity. The side reaction mechanisms of LATP with Li metal and the promising strategies for optimizing interfacial compatibility are reviewed. We also summarize the applications of LATP including as surface coatings of cathode particles, ion transport network additives and inorganic fillers of composite polymer electrolytes. At last, this review proposes the challenges and the future development directions of LATP in SSBs.

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Authors: Zhang Yongshang , Zhang Peng , Zhang Shijie , Wang Zheng , Li Neng , Silva S. Ravi P. , Shao Guosheng
Published: July 2021

Peng Zhang, Guosheng Shao and co‐workers(DOI: 10.1002/inf2.12214) design and develop the flexible metallic TiC nanofiber/vertical graphene 1D/2D hetero‐structured as active electrocatalyst for advanced Li‐S batteries. In this cover, the VG vertical standing on TiC nanofibers was fabricated based on the electrospinning technique as a highway for sulfur species conversion, which would be a novel pathway for high energy Li‐S batteries design to power electric vehicles.

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Phosphorus recovery from liquid digestate by chemical precipitation using low‐cost ion sources
Authors: Melgaço Lucas , Robles‐Aguilar Ana , Meers Erik , Mota César
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Phosphorus (P) recovered and recycled from agricultural waste, such precipitation of struvite (MgNH4PO4.6H2O) and calcium phosphates from the effluent after anaerobic digestion of wastes, is an important approach to developing environmentally sustainable fertilizers. However, for controlled phosphorus precipitation/recovery, it is usually necessary to supplement Ca2+ or Mg2+ ions; this represents more than 75% of the total operational costs and, as a result, hinders a more extensive application of this process. Therefore, there is a need to investigate alternative and low‐cost cation sources to recover phosphorus by precipitation. This study investigated limestone powder as calcium source and seawater as a magnesium source for phosphorus recovery by precipitation from the liquid fraction of digestate. The main parameters affecting the efficiency of the precipitation process were assessed under (i) four different pH values and (ii) three different molar ratios (Ca or Mg: P).

RESULTS

The maximum phosphate removal rate was 44% for limestone powder at molar ratio 2:1 and pH 7. Higher phosphate removal using limestone powder was possibly inhibited by calcite precipitation. For seawater, the phosphate removal rate was 65% at molar ratio 2:1 and pH 10. Results of experiments using seawater at molar ratio 2:1 showed a decrease in K+ concentration and phosphate, suggesting that K‐struvite precipitation may have occurred.

CONCLUSION

Limestone powder and seawater have a great potential to be used partially or totally as ion source for industrial recovery of P, mainly due to its very low cost. The recovered product could potentially be used as soil amendment and/or as phosphate rock substitute for fertilizer production. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Behavioral inhibition and dual mechanisms of anxiety risk: Disentangling neural correlates of proactive and reactive control
Authors: Valadez Emilio A. , Troller‐Renfree Sonya V. , Buzzell George A. , Henderson Heather A. , Chronis‐Tuscano Andrea , Pine Daniel S. , Fox Nathan A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Behavioral inhibition (BI) is a temperament style characterized by heightened reactivity and negative affect in response to novel people and situations, and it predicts anxiety problems later in life. However, not all BI children develop anxiety problems, and mounting evidence suggests that how one manages their cognitive resources (cognitive control) influences anxiety risk. The present study tests whether more (proactive control) or less (reactive control) planful cognitive strategies moderate relations between early BI and later anxiety.

Methods

Participants included 112 adolescents (55% female; Mage = 15.4 years) whose temperament was assessed during toddlerhood. In adolescence, participants completed an AX Continuous Performance Test while electroencephalography was recorded to disentangle neural activity related to proactive (cue‐locked P3b) and reactive (probe‐locked N2) control.

Results

Greater BI was associated with greater total anxiety scores only among adolescents with smaller ΔP3bs and larger ΔN2s—a pattern consistent with decreased reliance on proactive strategies and increased reliance on reactive strategies. Additionally, a larger ΔP3b was associated with greater total anxiety scores; however, this effect was largely explained by the fact that females tended to have larger ΔP3bs and greater anxiety than males.

Conclusions

Early BI relates to risk for later anxiety specifically among adolescents who rely less on proactive strategies and more on reactive control strategies. Thus, cognitive control strategy moderates the association between developmental context (i.e., temperament) and later anxiety. The present study is the first to characterize how proactive and reactive control uniquely relate to pathways toward anxiety risk.
The transcription factors SIX3 and VAX1 are required for suprachiasmatic nucleus circadian output and fertility in female mice
Authors: Hoffmann Hanne M. , Meadows Jason D. , Breuer Joseph A. , Yaw Alexandra M. , Nguyen Duong , Tonsfeldt Karen J. , Chin Austin Y. , Devries Brooke M. , Trang Crystal , Oosterhouse Haley J. , Lee Jessica Sora , Doser Jeffrey W. , Gorman Michael R. , Welsh David K. , Mellon Pamela L.
Published: July 2021

The homeodomain transcription factors sine oculis homeobox 3 (Six3) and ventral anterior homeobox 1 (Vax1) are required for brain development. Their expression in specific brain areas is maintained in adulthood, where their functions are poorly understood. To identify the roles of Six3 and Vax1 in neurons, we conditionally deleted each gene using Synapsincre, a promoter targeting maturing neurons, and generated Six3syn and Vax1syn mice. Six3syn and Vax1syn females, but not males, had reduced fertility, due to impairment of the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge driving ovulation. In nocturnal rodents, the LH surge requires a precise timing signal from the brain's circadian pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), near the time of activity onset. Indeed, both Six3syn and Vax1syn females had impaired rhythmic SCN output, which was associated with weakened Period 2 molecular clock function in both Six3syn and Vax1syn mice. These impairments were associated with a reduction of the SCN neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide in Vax1syn mice and a modest weakening of SCN timekeeping function in both Six3syn and Vax1syn mice. Changes in SCN function were associated with mistimed peak PER2::LUC expression in the SCN and pituitary in both Six3syn and Vax1syn females. Interestingly, Six3syn ovaries presented reduced sensitivity to LH, causing reduced ovulation during superovulation. In conclusion, we have identified novel roles of the homeodomain transcription factors SIX3 and VAX1 in neurons, where they are required for proper molecular circadian clock function, SCN rhythmic output, and female fertility.
Solvent‐induced enantioselectivity reversal in a chiral metal organic framework
Authors: Slater Benjamin D. , Hill Matthew R. , Ladewig Bradley P.
Published: July 2021

Solvent‐induced enantioselectivity reversal is a rarely reported phenomenon in porous homochiral materials. Similar behavior has been studied in chiral high performance liquid chromatography, where minor modifications to the mobile phase can induce elution order reversal of two enantiomers on a chiral stationary phase column. We report the first instance of solvent‐induced enantioselectivity reversal in a homochiral metal organic framework. Further, we highlight the complex enantioselectivity behavior of homochiral metal organic frameworks toward racemic mixtures in the presence of solvents through racemate‐solvent enantioselectivity and loading experiments as well as enantiopure‐solvent loading experiments. We hypothesize that this interesting selectivity reversal behavior is likely to be observed in other competitive adsorption, nonchiral selective processes involving a solvent.
Impacts of mobile payment‐related attributes on consumers' repurchase intention
Authors: Sun Sunny , Law Rob , Schuckert Markus , Hyun Sunghyup Sean
Published: July 2021

Although website functionality and usability have gained much attention of previous research, along with the recent development of mobile payment, payment behavior of travelers has been gradually changed. Nevertheless, limited studies have investigated the impact of mobile payment‐related functionality and usability on consumers' hotel repurchase intention. Hence, this study developed a new research framework based on the website evaluation conceptual model and the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Results show that mobile payment‐related usability on customer satisfaction is transmitted by mobile payment‐related attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control. The findings can assist tourism practitioners in facilitating hotel reservation processes.
Inhibition of suppressor of cytokine signaling‐3 affects mesangial cell proliferation and cell cycle in mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis
Authors: Liu Min , Wang Ya‐Chao , Zhou Jun
Published: July 2021

To explore the role of suppressor of cytokine signaling‐3 (SOCS‐3) in mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN). SOCS‐3 expression in kidney tissues from MsPGN patients was detected using immunohistochemistry. Double immunofluorescence staining was performed to investigate the localization of SOCS‐3 with α‐SMA in glomeruli. Heminephrectomized wild‐type (WT) and SOCS‐3−/− (KO) mice were injected with Habu‐snake venom (HSV) to establish MsPGN models, and renal function were compared. Simultaneously, immunofluorescence, periodic acid‐Schiff staining, Picrosirius red staining, as well as immunohistochemistry for PCNA, MAC‐2 and type IV collagen in glomeruli were performed. In addition, primary mouse renal mesangial cells and SV40 MES‐13 cells were transfected with SOCS‐3 siRNA or SOCS‐3 lentiviral activation particles, followed by EdU assay, flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. Mesangial SOCS‐3 expression was enhanced in glomeruli of MsPGN patients, and SOCS‐3 was well co‐localized with activated α‐SMA. After HSV injection, WT and KO mice presented with the increases in the serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, and urinary protein, especially in KO mice. Besides, SOCS‐3−/− alleviated the hyperplasia of glomerular MCs in MsPGN mice, with the reductions in PCNA, MAC‐2, and collagen deposition. Furthermore, SOCS‐3 inhibition reduced the cell proportion at S phase to suppress cell proliferation, with the downregulations of Cyclin A, Cyclin D1, PCNA, and Ki‐67. SOCS‐3 knockout can alleviate the hyperplasia of glomerular MCs in MsPGN mice via affecting the cell cycle and proliferation of MCs, thus being a potential therapeutic target for MsPGN.
Changes in spectral quality of underwater light alter phytoplankton community composition
Authors: Hintz Nils Hendrik , Zeising Moritz , Striebel Maren
Published: July 2021

Light is a fundamental resource for phytoplankton. To utilize the available light, most phytoplankton species possess pigments in taxon‐specific combinations and quantities, which in turn result in a specific use of certain wavelengths. This optimizes the light use efficiency, allows for a complementary use of light, and may be an additional driver for community structure. While the effects of light intensity on phytoplankton biomass production and community composition have been intensively studied, here we focused on the effects of specific light spectrum quality (thus light color) on a natural phytoplankton community. In a controlled mesocosm experiment we reduced the supplied wavelength range to its blue, green, or red part of the light spectrum and compared the responses of each treatment to a full spectrum control over 28 d. Highest community growth rates were observed under blue, lowest under red light. Light absorption by the communities showed adaptation toward the supplied wavelength range. Community composition was significantly affected by light quality treatments, driven by Bacillariophyta and Chlorophyta, whereas pigment composition was not. Furthermore, lower species richness but higher evenness occurred when communities were exposed to red light compared to the full spectrum. We expected the response of phytoplankton communities to changes in the light spectrum to be driven by a combination of species sorting and pigment acclimation; however, the effect of species sorting turned out to be stronger. Our study showed that, even if species might acclimate, changes in the available light spectrum affect primary production and phytoplankton community composition.
Control of Glucose‐Induced Degradation and Cargo Release in Multi‐Responsive Polymer Hydrogels
Authors: Ali Akbar , Nagumantri Sai P. , Rakshit Tatini , Pal Suchetan
Published: July 2021

On‐demand cargo/drug release from hydrogel under physiological conditions is a significant challenge for advanced therapeutics. Specifically, smart hydrogels capable of the glucose‐responsive release of anti‐diabetic drugs are of current research thurst. Despite the recent developments, there is a need for more glucose‐sensing hydrogel that retain the properties in a wide‐range of pH environments. Herein, a facile and generalized fabrication strategy of multiple stimuli (pH, glucose, and hydrogen peroxide)‐responsive hydrogels is reported. Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is crosslinked with three bis‐boronic acid molecules‐ benzene‐1,4‐diboronic acid (1,4‐BDBA), 4,4′‐biphenyldiboronic acid (4,4′‐BPDBA), tetrahydroxydiboron(THDB) in ambient conditions to produce hydrogels with water content > 80% and suitable for (macro)molecular cargo incorporation in the matrix. Extensive analytical studies suggest that hydrogels derived from 1,4‐BDBA and 4,4′‐BPDBA show degradation under the stimuli mentioned earlier, but THDB crosslinked hydrogel does not degrade under pH or glucose environment. This unusual property allows the incorporation of glucose oxidase (GOx) in the hydrogel matrix that imparts the glucose responsiveness for THDB crosslinked hydrogel. Finally, the glucose‐specific release of (macro)molecular cargo/drugs is demonstrated in a glucose oxidase containing PVA/THDB hydrogel in the physiological milieu. The hydrogel developed herein will open up new ways to develop glucose‐specific smart‐matrix for the on‐demand delivery of drugs.
Codeposition of Polyethyleneimine/Catechol on Fully Drawn Polyester Fiber‐Bundles for Investigating Interfacial Properties with Epoxy Resin
Authors: Chen Yuan , Wu Hailiang , Yan Chao , Wu Xiaoqing , Wei Junfu , Fang Jing , Zhong Zhili
Published: July 2021

Mussel‐inspiration is extensively utilized for multifunctional modification on the surface of universal materials. Polyphenols are more and more exploited for mussel‐inspired chemistry to replace polydopamine owing to their ubiquitousness and inexpensiveness. Herein, to explore the interfacial properties between fully drawn yarn (FDY) polyester fiber‐bundle and epoxy matrix, codeposition of polyethyleneimine/catechol (PEI/CCh) is used to modify FDY polyester fiber‐bundles by mussel‐inspired method. The orthogonal experiments are performed to obtain the optimum formula which is 2 g L−1 PEI, 1 g L−1 CCh, and 24 h codeposition time. The results of surface structure characterization measured via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive X‐ray indicate that PEI/CCh aggregates are uniformly coated on fiber surface to fabricate continuously lamellar structures. The surface hydrophilicity and water infiltration rate constant are acquired by water contact angle. These results elucidated that FDY fiber surface is successfully endowed with polyethyleneimine/catechol aggregates and surface hydrophilicity greatly improved. Single fiber‐bundle pull‐out tests are conducted to evaluate the interfacial strength. Compared to pure fiber‐bundle specimens, there are 67.57%, 57.63%, and 45.07% increase of initial debonding load, peak load, and interfacial shear strength, respectively.
Bioderived Bilayer Shell Modification β‐FeOOH Nanorods via Self‐Assembly Technique as Sustainable Flame Retardants for Enhancing Flame Retardancy of Epoxy Resin
Authors: Sui Yanlong , Dai Xueyan , Li Peihong , Zhang Chunling
Published: July 2021

The design and application of bioderived flame retardants have been widely conducted to meet the concept of green and sustainable development. Here, self‐assembly technique is used to prepare core–shell bioderived additives by using β‐FeOOH as the core and polydopamine (PDA)/tannic acid (TA) bilayer as the shell, following adsorption of nickel ions to enhance the thermal stability, flame retardancy, and mechanical properties of epoxy resin (EP). The molecular structure of biobased resources is rich in hydroxyl groups and carbon content, which can be dehydrated and carbonized during combustion and promote the formation of robust protective char layer. With the addition of 5 wt% β‐FeOOH@PTNi, the EP composites can pass V‐0 rating in the UL‐94 test. The peak heat release rate and total heat release decrease by 28.4% and 17.4% compared with pure EP. The bioderived nanorods can capture the oxygen free radicals, contributing to flame retarding in gaseous phase. Thus, the release of high‐toxic CO and flammable gaseous is significantly suppressed. Besides, the storage modulus of EP composites increases by 16.0% with the addition of 5% β‐FeOOH@PTNi compared with pure EP. This work provides a sustainable methodology for the design of bioderived flame retardants for EP.
Titanium carbide MXene for generating Q‐switched pulses in erbium‐doped fiber laser cavity
Authors: Sahib M. A. A. B. , Zulkipli N. F. , Rosol Ahmad Haziq Aiman , Yasin Moh , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: July 2021

In this paper, a new thin‐film saturable absorber (SA) that belongs to the MXene family is used to generate Q‐switched laser pulses. In constructing the SA, titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx) powder obtained through a selective etching process is dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol solution before the mixture is dried to form a thin film. A small piece of the film is placed between two fiber ferrules to form a SA device and added to a laser cavity of an erbium‐doped fiber laser to produce Q‐switched pulses in the region of 1561 nm. The repetition rate of the pulses can be varied between 45.25 and 65.59 kHz with the corresponding pulse width of 5.04–3.11 μs when the pump power is increased from 29.8 to 66.3 mW. At the maximum output power of 8.17 mW, the highest pulse energy of 125 nJ is obtained.
Proton stopping power prediction based on dual‐energy CT‐generated virtual monoenergetic images
Authors: Näsmark Torbjörn , Andersson Jonas
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to assess a proof of concept for a novel method for predicting proton stopping power ratios (SPRs) based on a pair of dual‐energy CT generated virtual monoenergetic (VM) images.

Materials and methods

A rapid kV‐switching dual‐energy CT scanner was used to acquire Gemstone Spectral Imaging (GSI) and 120 kV conventional single‐energy CT (SECT) image data of the CIRS 062M phantom. The proposed method was applied to every possible pairing of VM images between 40 and 140 keV to find the optimal energy pairs for SPR prediction in lung tissue, soft tissue, and bone. The predicted SPRs were compared against SPRs predicted from the SECT data using the conventional SECT‐based method. The impact of different scan and reconstruction parameters was also investigated.

Results

The SPR residual root mean square errors (RMSE) yielded by the optimal pairs were 7.2% for lung tissue, 0.4% for soft tissue, and 0.8% for bone. While no direct comparison could be made to other DECT‐based methods for SPR prediction, as these methods could not be directly implemented on a fast kV‐switching system, the SPR RMSEs for soft tissue and bone in Table 4 are comparable to RMSEs reported in the literature. For the conventional SECT‐based method, the SPR RMSEs were 5.9% for lung tissue, 0.9% for soft tissue, and 5.1% for bone.

Conclusions

The proposed method is a valid alternative to, and has the potential to improve upon, the conventional SECT‐based method for predicting SPRs. The formalism used in the method is applied directly, with no approximations made on our part, and requires neither prior knowledge of the spectra nor calibration with a phantom. This work presents a way of optimizing the proposed method for a specific scanner by determining the optimal energy pairs to use as input and demonstrates the method's robustness to different levels of ASiR‐V, reconstruction kernels, and dose levels.
Report of AAPM Task Group 219 on independent calculation‐based dose/MU verification for IMRT
Authors: Zhu Timothy C. , Stathakis Sotiris , Clark Jennifer R. , Feng Wenzheng , Georg Dietmar , Holmes Shannon M. , Kry Stephen F. , Ma Chang‐Ming Charlie , Miften Moyed , Mihailidis Dimitris , Moran Jean M. , Papanikolaou Niko , Poppe Bjorn , Xiao Ying
Published: July 2021

Independent verification of the dose per monitor unit (MU) to deliver the prescribed dose to a patient has been a mainstay of radiation oncology quality assurance (QA). We discuss the role of secondary dose/MU calculation programs as part of a comprehensive QA program. This report provides guidelines on calculation‐based dose/MU verification for intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) provided by various modalities. We provide a review of various algorithms for “independent/second check” of monitor unit calculations for IMRT/VMAT. The report makes recommendations on the clinical implementation of secondary dose/MU calculation programs; on commissioning and acceptance of various commercially available secondary dose/MU calculation programs; on benchmark QA and periodic QA; and on clinically reasonable action levels for agreement of secondary dose/MU calculation programs.
Interstitial amyloidosis in sporadic inclusion body myositis
Authors: Alamr Mazen , Milone Margherita , Naddaf Elie , Ytterberg Steven R. , Steel Stephanie J. , Jones Lyell K. , Liewluck Teerin
Published: July 2021

Introduction/Aims

Intracellular congophilic inclusions within muscle fibers, although nonspecific, are one of the pathological hallmarks of sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM). Extracellular amyloid deposits in muscle, on the other hand, are the canonical findings of amyloid myopathies, which occur with or without systemic amyloidosis.

Methods

We reviewed the muscle biopsy database (1998–2020) to identify sIBM patients with extracellular amyloid deposits. Clinical and laboratory data were reviewed.

Results

We identified five sIBM patients (three clinicopathologically defined and two clinically defined) with extracellular amyloid deposits in muscle. Mean age at diagnosis was 74.8 y (range, 68–84 y). All patients had a typical sIBM pattern of weakness without associated sensory or autonomic symptoms. None had electrophysiological evidence of peripheral neuropathy. Only one patient had a monoclonal gammopathy (immunoglobulin M‐lambda, IgM‐λ) with normal bone marrow biopsy. This patient with monoclonal gammopathy and three other patients underwent abdominal fat pad aspirate and were negative for amyloid. Cardiac evaluation was unrevealing in the four patients tested. Three patients without monoclonal gammopathy had normal transthyretin gene sequencing and inconclusive mass spectrometry‐based analysis. The patient with monoclonal gammopathy died of pneumosepsis 5 y after diagnosis and autopsy revealed multi‐organ transthyretin amyloidosis.

Discussion

Detection of extracellular amyloid deposition in muscle should trigger an aggressive search for systemic amyloidosis independently from other associated myopathological abnormalities. Amyloid subtyping is crucial for early therapy and mortality prevention. An isolated monoclonal gammopathy should not halt a search for non‐hematological causes of systemic amyloidosis.
Direct comparison of median and ulnar repetitive nerve stimulation in generalized myasthenia gravis
Authors: Pike‐Lee Tiffany , Higginbotham Dana , Li Yuebing
Published: July 2021

Introduction/Aims

Ulnar nerve repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) has been traditionally used in the electrophysiological evaluation of myasthenia gravis (MG). However, its low diagnostic sensitivity remains a limitation. Existing data may suggest that median nerve RNS outperforms that of the ulnar nerve, but a direct comparison is currently lacking. The aim of this study was to directly compare the diagnostic yields between median and ulnar nerve RNS in patients with generalized MG.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with MG who underwent median and ulnar nerve RNS at a single tertiary center.

Results

RNS studies of median nerve recording from the abductor pollicis brevis and ulnar nerve recording from the adductor digiti minimi were completed in 28 patients with generalized MG. Abnormal RNS was more frequently observed in the median compared with the ulnar nerve (60.7% vs 35.7%, P = .046). The average magnitude of decrement was higher in the median nerve compared with the ulnar nerve (17.3% vs 9.6%, P = .017). Differences between the median and ulnar nerve RNS studies were restricted to patients with mild manifestations (Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America class II).

Discussion

Median nerve RNS has superior diagnostic sensitivity as compared with ulnar nerve RNS in the assessment of mild generalized MG.
COVID‐19 vaccines are effective in people with obesity: A position statement from The Obesity Society
Authors: Butsch W. Scott , Hajduk Alexandra , Cardel Michelle I. , Donahoo William T. , Kyle Theodore K. , Stanford Fatima Cody , Zeltser Lori M. , Kotz Catherine M. , Jastreboff Ania M.
Published: July 2021

The position statement is issued by The Obesity Society in response to published literature, as well as inquiries made to the Society by patients, providers, Society members, policy makers, and others regarding the efficacy of vaccines in persons with obesity against SARS‐CoV‐2, the virus that causes COVID‐19. The Obesity Society has critically evaluated data from published peer‐reviewed literature and briefing documents from Emergency Use Authorization applications submitted by Pfizer‐BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. We conclude that these vaccines are highly efficacious, and their efficacy is not significantly different in people with and without obesity, based on scientific evidence available at the time of publication. The Obesity Society believes there is no definitive way to determine which of these three COVID‐19 vaccines is “best” for any weight subpopulation (because of differences in the trial design and outcome measures in the phase 3 trials, elapsed time between doses, and regional differences in the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants [e.g., South Africa B.1.351 in Johnson & Johnson trial]). All three trials have demonstrated high efficacy against COVID‐19–associated hospitalization and death. Therefore, The Obesity Society encourages adults with obesity ≥18 years (≥16 years for Pfizer‐BioNTech) to undergo vaccination with any one of the currently available vaccines authorized for emergency use by the US Food and Drug Administration as soon as they are able.
EMA Review of Isatuximab in Combination with Pomalidomide and Dexamethasone for the Treatment of Adult Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Delgado Julio , Zienowicz Malgorzata , Hennik Paula Boudewina , Moreau Alexandre , Gisselbrecht Christian , Enzmann Harald , Pignatti Francesco
Published: July 2021

Isatuximab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the human CD38 antigen. On May 30, 2020, a marketing authorization valid through the European Union (EU) was issued for isatuximab in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone (IsaPd) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed and refractory (RR) multiple myeloma (MM). The recommended dose of isatuximab was 10 mg/kg, administered intravenously weekly at cycle 1 and then biweekly in subsequent 28-day cycles. Isatuximab was evaluated in a phase III, open-label, multicenter, randomized trial that randomly allocated IsaPd versus pomalidomide plus dexamethasone (Pd) to adult patients with RR MM. The primary endpoint of the trial was progression-free survival, as assessed by an independent review committee, which was superior for the IsaPd arm (hazard ratio, 0.596; 95% confidence interval, 0.436–0.814; p = .001) compared with the Pd arm. Treatment with IsaPd led to higher incidences of treatment-related adverse events (AEs), grade ≥ 3 AEs, and serious AEs compared with Pd treatment. Most frequently observed AEs that occurred more often in the IsaPd arm were infusion-related reactions, infections, respiratory AEs, neutropenia (including neutropenic complications), and thrombocytopenia. The aim of this article is to summarize the scientific review of the application leading to regulatory approval in the EU.

Implications for Practice

Isatuximab was approved in the European Union, in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone, for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma who have already received therapy but whose disease did not respond or relapsed afterward. The addition of isatuximab resulted in a clinically meaningful and significant prolongation of the time from treatment initiation to further disease relapse or patient's death. The safety profile was considered acceptable, and the benefit-risk ratio was determined to be positive.
Long-Term Survival of Combined Hepatocellular-Cholangiocarcinoma: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Chen Po-Da , Chen Li-Ju , Chang Yao-Jen , Chang Yun-Jau
Published: July 2021

Background

Combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (HCC-CC) is an aggressive primary liver cancer. However, the clinical features are not clearly understood because of limited literature and the complex nature of both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CC).

Methods

The records of 100,754 patients with newly diagnosed liver cancer between 2004 and 2013 were obtained from the Taiwan Cancer Registry. The primary outcome measures were overall survival and local recurrence-free survival. The median follow-up time was 60 months (29–120 months).

Results

HCC-CC tended to share some characteristics with HCC, including increased frequency of stage I cases, high individual tumor rates, and similar patterns of viral hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections. In contrast, HCC-CC showed malignant behavior similar to that of CC, as high-grade tumor cell differentiation and presentation of jaundice were predominant in HCC-CC and CC compared with HCC. Overall survival and local recurrence-free survival rates of HCC-CC were between HCC and CC rates. The mortality rate of HCC-CC was 79.2% (HCC, 77.5%; CC, 93.5%) and the local recurrence rate of HCC-CC was 65.3% (HCC, 74.6%; CC, 88.4%). Surgical treatment was an independent factor for the long-term prognosis of HCC-CC, whereas transarterial chemoembolization (TAcE) promoted survival in both surgical and nonsurgical groups.

Conclusion

Our data confirmed that, although it reflects the malignant behavior of CC, HCC-CC should mainly be characterized as a subtype of HCC. With careful selection of patients, curative resection and TAcE might benefit the survival of patients with HCC-CC.

Implications for Practice

Combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (HCC-CC) is a rare cancer that shares demographic characteristics, as well as survival probabilities, with both hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. It occurs frequently in patients with hepatitis B virus infection, cirrhotic liver background, and early-stage disease. Compared with 20% of initial resection rates of its counterparts, HCC-CC has higher initial resection rate (55%). Although short-term overall survival is inferior to HCC, its long-term overall survival is similar with HCC.
Linear Multiselenium Interactions in Dicationic Oligomers of 1,5‐(Diselena)canes: Behavior of Semc σ(mcc‐nee) (6≤mc≤16) Elucidated with QTAIM Dual Functional Analysis
Authors: Hayashi Satoko , Nishide Taro , Nagata Kengo , Nakanishi Waro
Published: July 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Dr. Satoko Hayashi at Faculty of Systems Engineering and Chemistry at Wakayama University. The cover picture shows the linear Se16 σ(16c–30e) interactions, illustrated by the molecular graph type on the optimized structure of the dicationic octamer of 1,5‐(diselena)cane. HOMO‐1 of ψ462 is drawn on the structure, which is located predominantly on the Se atoms. The optimized structure is stable, due to the nice engagement between the (CH2)3 moieties. The contour maps of ρ(r) are also drawn on the molecular Cs planes of the dicationic dimer and trimer to demonstrate clearly the existence of the interactions between Se atoms. Read the full text of their Full Paper at 10.1002/open.202100017.