bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation and characterization of cardiac valve endothelial-like cells from human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Cheng LinXi , Xie MingHui , Qiao WeiHua , Song Yu , Zhang YanYong , Geng YingChao , Xu WeiLin , Wang Lin , Wang Zheng , Huang Kai , Dong NianGuo , Sun YuHua
Published: September 2021

The cardiac valvular endothelial cells (VECs) are an ideal cell source that could be used for making the valve organoids. However, few studies have been focused on the derivation of this important cell type. Here we describe a two-step chemically defined xeno-free method for generating VEC-like cells from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). HPSCs were specified to KDR+/ISL1+multipotent cardiac progenitors (CPCs), followed by differentiation into valve endothelial-like cells (VELs) via an intermediate endocardial cushion cell (ECC) type. Mechanistically, administration of TGFb1 and BMP4 may specify VEC fate by activating the NOTCH/WNT signaling pathways and previously unidentified targets such as ATF3 and KLF family of transcription factors. When seeded onto the surface of the de-cellularized porcine aortic valve (DCV) matrix scaffolds, hPSC-derived VELs exhibit superior proliferative and clonogenic potential than the primary VECs and human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC). Our results show that hPSC-derived valvular cells could be efficiently generated from hPSCs, which might be used as seed cells for construction of valve organoids or next generation tissue engineered heart valves.
Ruthenium macrocycles bearing pyridine bis(carboxamide): synthesis, structure, and catalytic activity for hydrosilylation
Authors: Sato Hiroki , Tsukamoto Tadashi , Sogawa Hiromitsu , Kuwata Shigeki , Takata Toshikazu
Published: September 2021

Ruthenium complexes Ru(MC33)(CO)n(L)2−n (L = H2O, PPh3, P(OEt)3; n = 1, 2) with a pincer-type macrocyclic ligand MC33 with a cavity were synthesized and characterized.
Room-temperature growth of covalent organic frameworks as the stationary phase for open-tubular capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Li Qiaoyan , Li Zhentao , Fu Yuanyuan , Clarot Igor , Boudier Ariane , Chen Zilin
Published: September 2021

Schematic presentation of the in situ growth of COF-TzDa onto the inner wall of capillary for open-tubular capillary electrochromatography.
Simultaneous determination of three antituberculosis drugs in the serum of patients with spinal tuberculosis by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Wu Xuehua , Che Xiaoming , Qiu Zhixue , Chao Jingyuan , Kong Zhanping , Li Haili
Published: September 2021

Capillary electrophoresis is a simple, rapid, and sensitive method for measuring PZA (1), INH (2), and RFP (3) simultaneously in serum samples of patients with spinal tuberculosis.
Graphitic supramolecular architectures based on corannulene, fullerene, and beyond
Authors: Leith Gabrielle A. , Shustova Natalia B.
Published: September 2021

This Feature Article examines the progress made in the field of corannulene- and fullerene-containing supramolecular architectures with applications in optoelectronic, biomaterial, and heterogeneous catalysis sectors.
Copper-catalyzed enantioselective alkene carboetherification for the synthesis of saturated six-membered cyclic ethers
Authors: Berhane Ilyas A. , Burde Ameya S. , Kennedy-Ellis Jonathan J. , Zurek Eva , Chemler Sherry R.
Published: September 2021

The enantioselective copper-catalyzed oxidative coupling of alkenols with styrenes for the construction of dihydropyrans, isochromans, pyrans and morpholines is reported.
Fabrication of a chiral luminescent hydrogel from gold nanoclusters via molecular recognition
Authors: Liu Junxiao , Yu You , Wang Chen , Shen Jinglin , Feng Jin , Qi Wei
Published: September 2021

A supramolecular chiral hydrogel with enhanced emission was obtained by the co-assembly of achiral TBA-AuNCs with chiral molecules.
Unique PDT and PTT synergistic effect between TPE and BODIPY
Authors: Ruijie Shi , Guomin Sui , Yanxin Lin , Ning Wang , Chencheng Fan , Xu Jiang , Yanhui Liu , Chengzhi Gu , Yaqing Feng , Shuxian Meng
Published: September 2021

A novel intermolecular system D-π⋯π′-A had a synergistic effect on PDT and PTT (1 + 1 > 2), which provided new strategies and methods for phototherapy.
Band alignment tuning of heptazine-g-C3N4/g-ZnO vdW heterostructure as a promising water-splitting photocatalyst
Authors: Rahimi Kourosh , Moshfegh Alireza Z.
Published: September 2021

The electronic properties (bandgap and band alignment) of a heptazine-g-C3N4/g-ZnO vdW heterostructure were tuned using an electric field and by applying strain, towards achieving efficient water-splitting photocatalysis.
Bayesian phase difference estimation: a general quantum algorithm for the direct calculation of energy gaps
Authors: Sugisaki Kenji , Sakai Chikako , Toyota Kazuo , Sato Kazunobu , Shiomi Daisuke , Takui Takeji
Published: September 2021

Bayesian phase difference estimation (BPDE) is a controlled-time evolution-free quantum algorithm that is capable of computing the energy difference between two electronic states directly, without inspecting the total energies of individual states.
Microelectrode-based transient amperometry of O2adsorption and desorption on a SrTiO3photocatalyst excited under water
Authors: Kosaka Takumu , Ando Tomohiro , Hisatomi Takashi , Nishiyama Hiroshi , Zhou Yuanshu , Domen Kazunari , Takahashi Yasufumi , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: September 2021

Transient amperometry with a microelectrode was applied to a SrTiO3photocatalyst for water splitting.OperandoO2detection at intervals of 0.1 s indicated light-triggered O2adsorption and desorption in addition to photocatalytic O2evolution.
Advanced biotechnology-assisted precise sonodynamic therapy
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zhang Xiangqian , Yang Huocheng , Yu Le , Xu Yunjie , Sharma Amit , Yin Peng , Li Xiangyang , Kim Jong Seung , Sun Yao
Published: September 2021

Herein, we provide the enhancement of SDT effect through elaborate strategies including the design and modification of sonosensitizers, the combination other therapy modalities, and molecular imaging-guided SDT for precise treatment.
Covalent graphite modification by low-temperature photocatalytic oxidation using a titanium dioxide thin film prepared by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Ostyn Niels R. , Sree Sreeprasanth Pulinthanathu , Li Jin , Feng Ji-Yu , Roeffaers Maarten B. J. , De Feyter Steven , Dendooven Jolien , Detavernier Christophe , Martens Johan A.
Published: September 2021

Remote photocatalytic graphite oxidation proceeds efficiently via a transparent titania photocatalyst thin film coating activating the surface with oxygen functional groups.
Nitrogen-rich metal-free salts: a new look at the 5-(trinitromethyl)tetrazolate anion as an energetic moiety
Authors: Chaplygin Daniil A. , Larin Alexander A. , Muravyev Nikita V. , Meerov Dmitry B. , Kosareva Ekaterina K. , Kiselev Vitaly G. , Pivkina Alla N. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Fershtat Leonid L.
Published: September 2021

Promising high-nitrogen and eco-friendly energetic salts with excellent detonation performance based on a 5-(trinitromethyl)tetrazolate core were prepared.
AgI–KI aerosol catalysts with excellent combustion and nucleation performance for weather modification
Authors: Song Tinglu , Xu Fan , Li Xiaodong , Guo Xiaoyan , Zou Meishuai , Yang Rongjie
Published: September 2021

By employing AgI-based aerosols, the nucleation efficiency of ice was enhanced, resulting in a greatly decreased icing mass formed on transmission lines.
Retention of detonation nanodiamonds by soil: usage of tritium labeled nanoparticles and a key role for water-extractable Fe and Si
Authors: Kulikova Natalia A. , Chernysheva Maria G. , Badun Gennadii A. , Filippova Olga I. , Kholodov Vladimir A. , Volikov Alexander B. , Popov Andrey G.
Published: September 2021

Retention of nanodiamonds (NDs) by soils = f (ζ-potential, water-extractable Fe and Si).
Protective effect and mechanism of chitooligosaccharides on acetaminophen-induced liver injury
Authors: Xiang Junwei , Wang Jin , Xie Hongyi , Liu Yongjian , Bai Yan , Che Qishi , Cao Hua , Huang Guidong , Guo Jiao , Su Zhengquan
Published: September 2021

COS may protect APAP-induced liver damage through antioxidant.
Inhibitory effects of Panax ginseng glycoproteins in models of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Chen Yajun , Wang Lei , Liu Tianjia , Qiu Zhidong , Qiu Ye , Liu Da
Published: September 2021

We investigated the protective effect of PGP against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. PGP increases H9C2 cell viability and inhibits apoptosis, alleviating DOX-induced myocardial oxidative stress-related cardiotoxicity.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HNU082 inhibited the growth of Fusobacterium nucleatum and alleviated the inflammatory response introduced by F. nucleatum invasion
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , li Jiahe , Ma Chenchen , Jiang Shuaiming , Li Congfa , Zhang Lin , Zhang Jiachao
Published: September 2021

Lp082 was shown to inhibit the growth of F. nucleatum, maintain the intestinal microbiome homeostasis, prompt the production of intestinal beneficial metabolites and alleviate the inflammatory response.
A predictive toolset for the identification of effective lignocellulosic pretreatment solvents: a case study of solvents tailored for lignin extraction
Authors: Achinivu Ezinne C. , Mohan Mood , Choudhary Hemant , Das Lalitendu , Huang Kaixuan , Magurudeniya Harsha D. , Pidatala Venkataramana R. , George Anthe , Simmons Blake A. , Gladden John M.
Published: September 2021

Systematic approach for predicting lignin extraction and studying mechanistic effects using computational chemistry and experimental correlations.
Furfurylation protects timber from degradation by marine wood boring crustaceans
Authors: Martin Lucy S. , Jelavić Stanislav , Cragg Simon M. , Thygesen Lisbeth G.
Published: September 2021

We fed furfurylated and control wood to gribble. Our results imply that furfurylation of wood protects against degradation by gribble without the reliance on broad spectrum biocides and can reduce costs associated with damaged wooden structures.
Role of peracetic acid on the disruption of lignin packing structure and its consequence on lignin depolymerisation
Authors: Ma Ruoshui , Sanyal Udishnu , Olarte Mariefel V. , Job Heather M. , Swita Marie S. , Jones Susanne B. , Meyer Pimphan A. , Burton Sarah D. , Cort John R. , Bowden Mark E. , Chen Xiaowen , Wolcott Michael P. , Zhang Xiao
Published: September 2021

Peracetic acid is shown to delaminate the bulk lignin structure, resulting in volume expansion and improved accessibility to depolymerisation sites.
Comparative study of the solvolytic deconstruction of corn stover lignin in batch and flow-through reactors
Authors: Vincent Sahayaraj Daniel , A Lusi , Mitchell Emma M. , Bai Xianglan , Tessonnier Jean-Philippe
Published: September 2021

Deconstruction of corn stover lignin in a flow-through reactor enhanced product yields 2-fold compared to batch systems. It also showed beneficial effects on aromatic hydrocarbons formed during catalytic fast pyrolysis compared to the parent lignin.
CO2-tuned highly selective reduction of formamides to the corresponding methylamines
Authors: Guo Zhiqiang , Pang Tengfei , Yan Leilei , Wei Xuehong , Chao Jianbin , Xi Chanjuan
Published: September 2021

An efficient, CO2-tuned and highly selective C–O bond cleavage of N-methylated formanilides with NaBH4 has been achieved. Notably, when using N2 as reaction atmosphere, the reaction gave N-methylaniline as major product via C–N bond hydrogenolysis.
Recent advances in peptide-based nanomaterials for targeting hypoxia
Authors: Wang Jun , Liu Jing , Yang Zhongxing
Published: September 2021

This minireview summarizes the recent advances in the design and construction of different peptide-based hypoxia-targeting nanomaterials, followed by their mechanisms and potential applications in hypoxia-related disease therapy.
Fabrication of Co3O4nanoparticle-decorated porous activated carbon electrode for the electrochemical detection of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Joseph Xavier Benadict , Ezhilarasi J. Christy , Wang Sea-Fue , Elanthamilan E. , Sriram Balasubramanian , Merlin J. Princy
Published: September 2021

Preparation of Co3O4@BVFC for the electrochemical detection of 4-NP.
Tuneable oxidation of styrene to benzaldehyde and benzoic acid over Co/ZSM-5
Authors: Guan Xin , Duan Chongda , Wang Hongxia , Lu Bin , Zhao Jingxiang , Cai Qinghai
Published: September 2021

Tuneable synthesis of benzaldehyde and benzoic acid from solvent-free oxidation of styrene with O2 oxidant over Co/ZSM-5 prepared at 500 and 450 °C. These two catalysts exhibited high catalytic activity with selectivity, which is 96% for benzaldehyde and 95% for benzoic acid.
Quantifying the CVD-grown two-dimensional materials via image clustering
Authors: Li Zebin , Lee Jihea , Yao Fei , Sun Hongyue
Published: September 2021

We propose an unsupervised machine learning method to facilitate the quality evaluation of CVD-grown 2D materials.
Manganese-based advanced nanoparticles for biomedical applications: future opportunity and challenges
Authors: Haque Shagufta , Tripathy Sanchita , Patra Chitta Ranjan
Published: September 2021

The present review article provides the insight of an overall survey on the recent advancements of manganese nanomaterials for biomedical nanotechnology and other fields.
Synthesis of new quinolizinium-based fluorescent compounds and studies on their applications in photocatalysis
Authors: Yip Wai-Ming , Yu Qiong , Tantipanjaporn Ajcharapan , Chan Wing-Cheung , Deng Jie-Ren , Ko Ben Chi-bun , Wong Man-Kin
Published: September 2021

A new library of quinolizinium compounds was synthesized via Rh catalyzed C–H bond functionalization. Systematic studies on their photophysical properties and applications in photoredox catalysis have been conducted.
Recent advances in rhodium-catalyzed C(sp2)–H (hetero)arylation
Authors: Yang Zixian , Yu Jin-Tao , Pan Changduo
Published: September 2021

Recent achievements in rhodium-catalyzed arylations through C(sp2)–H bond activation were summarized.
Investigating the adsorption of anisotropic diblock copolymer worms onto planar silica and nanocellulose surfaces using a quartz crystal microbalance
Authors: Engström Joakim , Reid Michael S. , Brotherton Emma E. , Malmström Eva , Armes Steven P. , Hatton Fiona L.
Published: September 2021

We report physical adsorption of highly anisotropic copolymer worms with either anionic or cationic charge onto planar silica, cellulose nanocrystal or cellulose nanofibril surfaces using a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring.
Fully amorphous atactic and isotactic block copolymers and their self-assembly into nano- and microscopic vesicles
Authors: Wehr Riccardo , dos Santos Elena C. , Muthwill Moritz S. , Chimisso Vittoria , Gaitzsch Jens , Meier Wolfgang
Published: September 2021

Analysis of the membrane properties and stability of fully amorphous small and giant unilamellar vesicles composed of atactic or isotactic poly(butylene oxide)-block-poly(glycidol) (PBO-b-PG) amphiphilic diblock copolymers.
A comparison of zwitterionic and anionic mechanisms in the dual-catalytic polymerization of lactide
Authors: Balint Alexander , Naumann Stefan
Published: September 2021

Two different polymerization mechanisms for lactide are selectivity addressed to illuminate the respective role of organobase and Lewis acid component.
Construction of self-supporting bimetallic sulfide arrays as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for bifunctional electro-oxidation
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Dai Liming , Hu Yiming , Jiang Ku , Li Qian , Deng Yilin , Yuan Junjie , Bao Jian , Lei Yucheng
Published: September 2021

Bimetal nickel–cobalt sulfide nanosheets grown on nickel foam (NCS/NF) exhibit superior OER and UOR activities with low potentials of 1.46 and 1.31 V at 10 mA cm−2, and even good activity in alkaline water electrolytes.
Diarylheptanoid analogues from the rhizomes ofZingiber officinaleand their anti-tumour activity
Authors: Li Ting , Pan Da-bo , Pang Qian-qian , Zhou Mi , Yao Xiao-jun , Yao Xin-sheng , Li Hai-bo , Yu Yang
Published: September 2021

Diarylheptanoid analogues from the rhizomes ofZingiber officinaleand their anti-tumour activity.
Comparative assessment of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) inhibitors under clinical trials to control SARS-CoV2 using rigorous computational workflow
Authors: Goswami Dweipayan
Published: September 2021

Identifying the inhibitors for RNA-dependant-RNA polymerase (RdRp) of SARS-CoV2.
Efficient photoelectrocatalytic performance of beta-cyclodextrin/graphene composite and effect of Cl−in water: degradation for bromophenol blue as a case study
Authors: Cong Qiao , Ren Miao , Zhang Tingting , Cheng Fangyuan , Qu Jiao
Published: September 2021

O2˙−played a crucial role in the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of BPB by the prepared GR/β-CD. Cl−marginally promoted the degradation of BPB and chlorinated intermediates were generated.
A multi-colorimetric probe to discriminate between heavy metal cations and anions in DMSO–H2O with high selectivity for Cu2+ and CN−: study of logic functions and its application in real samples
Authors: Hamukwaya Eunike , Naimhwaka Johannes , Uahengo Veikko
Published: September 2021

A ditopic multi-colorimetric probe based on the phenylpridyl-thioic moiety (EN) was synthesized via a Schiff base reaction mechanism and characterized using 1H NMR and UV-vis spectroscopy.
Low cost, high efficiency flexible supercapacitor electrodes made from areca nut husk nanocellulose and silver nanoparticle embedded polyaniline
Authors: Sasi Soorya , Krishna C. Ardra , Sugunan Sunish K. , Chandran Akash , Nair P. Radhakrishnan , Subramanian K. R. V. , Mathew Suresh
Published: September 2021

Energy storage is a key aspect in the smooth functioning of the numerous gadgets that aid easy maneuvering through modern life. Utilization of waste materials for energy storage applications enables the sustainable development of energy field.
New water-soluble isoxazole-linked 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivative with delocalized positive charge
Authors: Bąchor Urszula , Drozd-Szczygieł Ewa , Bąchor Remigiusz , Jerzykiewicz Lucjan , Wieczorek Robert , Mączyński Marcin
Published: September 2021

Herein we present a synthesis and characterization of a new water soluble isoxazole-linked 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivative owing the local positive charge at the carbon atom of oxadiazole moiety.
Electronic and optical properties of two-dimensional heterostructures based on Janus XSSe (X = Mo, W) and Mg(OH)2: a first principles investigation
Authors: Lou Junbin , Ren Kai , Huang Zhaoming , Huo Wenyi , Zhu Zhengyang , Yu Jin
Published: September 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have attracted numerous investigations after the discovery of graphene.
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles via traditional Chinese medicine and evaluation of their antibacterial activities
Authors: Yang Yi , Zhao Tao , Zhang Tao
Published: September 2021

Two types of silver nanoparticles were synthesized via traditional Chinese medicine. Both of them exhibited excellent antibacterial activities, which could be promising in the development of new antibacterial agents and materials.
An amplification-free ultra-sensitive electrochemical CRISPR/Cas biosensor for drug-resistant bacteria detection
Authors: Suea-Ngam Akkapol , Howes Philip D. , deMello Andrew J.
Published: September 2021

An amplification-free electrochemical CRISPR/Cas biosensor utilizing silver metallization (termed E-Si-CRISPR) allows detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with excellent sensitivity and specificity.
Modelling the active SARS-CoV-2 helicase complex as a basis for structure-based inhibitor design
Authors: Berta Dénes , Badaoui Magd , Martino Sam Alexander , Buigues Pedro J. , Pisliakov Andrei V. , Elghobashi-Meinhardt Nadia , Wells Geoff , Harris Sarah A. , Frezza Elisa , Rosta Edina
Published: September 2021

The RNA helicase (non-structural protein 13, NSP13) of SARS-CoV-2 is essential for viral replication, and it is highly conserved among the coronaviridae family, thus a prominent drug target to treat COVID-19.
Hyperfluorescent polymers enabled by through-space charge transfer polystyrene sensitizers for high-efficiency and full-color electroluminescence
Authors: Hu Jun , Wang Yinuo , Li Qiang , Shao Shiyang , Wang Lixiang , Jing Xiabin , Wang Fosong
Published: September 2021

Hyperfluorescent polymers with high efficiency and full-color electroluminescence are developed by using through-space charge transfer polystyrenes as sensitizers for exciton utilization and fluorescent chromophores as emitters for light emission.
Recycling bread waste into chemical building blocks using a circular biorefining approach
Authors: Narisetty Vivek , Cox Rylan , Willoughby Nicholas , Aktas Emel , Tiwari Brijesh , Matharu Avtar Singh , Salonitis Konstantinos , Kumar Vinod
Published: September 2021

Food waste is a global problem, causing significant environmental harm and resulting in substantial economic losses globally.
Sculpting the shapes of giant unilamellar vesicles using isotropic–nematic–isotropic phase cycles
Authors: Jani Purvil , Nayani Karthik , Abbott Nicholas L.
Published: September 2021

Cycles of thermally induced transitions between nematic (N) and isotropic (I) phases are used to exert cyclical elastic stresses on dispersions of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) and thereby sculpt GUV shape and properties.
Lyotropic liquid crystals as templates for advanced materials
Authors: Saadat Younes , Imran Omar Q. , Osuji Chinedum O. , Foudazi Reza
Published: September 2021

Bottom-up engineered LLC templated products with a variety of nanostructures offer infinite potential applications in many technical fields.
Anthraquinone-based electroactive ionic species as stable multi-redox anode active materials for high-performance nonaqueous redox flow batteries
Authors: Zhen Yihan , Zhang Cuijuan , Yuan Jiashu , Li Yongdan
Published: September 2021

Three AQ-based materials are designed by incorporating acetamide and tetraalkylammonium ionic groups. The solubility and stability are enhanced, and the NARFB with a two-electron transfer process shows high cycling performance.
Soluble microneedle patch with photothermal and NO-release properties for painless and precise treatment of ischemic perforator flaps
Authors: Liu Lubing , Wang Qingqing , Liao Huaiwei , Ye Jing , Huang Jinjun , Li Shisheng , Peng Haichuan , Yu Xiang , Wen Huicai , Wang Xiaolei
Published: September 2021

A non-invasive and light-responsive soluble microneedle patch is proposed to provide NIR defined subcutaneous NO delivery for ischemic perforator flaps.
Convergent charge interval spacing of zwitterionic 4-vinylpyridine carboxybetaine structures for superior blood-inert regulation in amphiphilic phases
Authors: Chiu Chieh-Yang , Chang Yung , Liu Tzu-Hao , Chou Ying-Nien , Yen Ta-Jen
Published: September 2021

This work proposes a new zwitterionic formulation of 4-vinylpyridine carboxybetaine (4VPCB) with low surface free energy and excellent biological inertness, which provides potential applications for blood-contact medical materials.
One-step fabrication of functional carbon dots with long wavelength emission for gene delivery and bio-imaging
Authors: Chen Ping , He Xi , Tian Xiao-Li , Zhang Ji , Yu Xiao-Qi
Published: September 2021

Multi-functional carbon dots for efficient non-viral gene delivery and long wavelength bio-imaging were simply prepared.
Rapid prototyping of heterostructured organic microelectronics using wax printing, filtration, and transfer
Authors: Ouyang Liangqi , Buchmann Sebastian , Benselfelt Tobias , Musumeci Chiara , Wang Zhen , Khaliliazar Shirin , Tian Weiqian , Li Hailong , Herland Anna , Hamedi Mahiar M.
Published: September 2021

This work presents a simple yet powerful method to micropattern electronic multilayer heterostructures of conducting polymers and nanomaterials. Using wax printing, filtration and tape transfer, we rapidly prototype advanced heterostructure devices.
A study on preterm birth predictions using physiological signals, medical health record information and low‐dimensional embedding methods
Authors: Nsugbe Ejay , Samuel Oluwarotimi William , Sanusi Ibrahim , Asogbon Mojisola Grace , Li Guanglin
Published: September 2021

Preterm births have been seen to have psychological and financial implications; current surveys suggest that amongst the various methods of preterm prediction, there is yet to exist a reliable and standard means of predicting preterm births. This study investigates the application of electrohysterogram and tocogram signals acquired at various points during the third pregnancy trimester, alongside information from the patients' medical health record regarding the pregnancy, towards preterm prediction and an associated delivery imminency timeline. In addition to this, the impact of both linear and non‐linear dimensional embedding methods towards the preterm prediction is explored. The classification exercises were carried out using a support vector machine and decision tree, both of which have a certain degree of model interpretability and have potential to be introduced into a clinical operating framework.
Modelling, simulating and parameter designing for traction power system with bidirectional converter devices
Authors: Zhang Jian , Liu Wei , Tian Zhongbei , Zhang Hao , Zeng Jiaxin , Qi He
Published: September 2021

The bidirectional converter device (BCD) can substitute the substation rectifier and the energy feedback system (EFS) by transforming energy between the AC side and DC side. However, the performance of the railway system with BCDs as only converters has not been fully understood. A simulation approach is required to evaluate the system performance and guide the design. In this paper, the traction power supply system considering the capacity constraint of BCDs is modelled first, and the AC/DC power calculating algorithm is studied. A three‐layer double‐loop parameter designing strategy based on the enhanced brute force is proposed, which considers the N −1 principle. In the case study, the power source model for trains and power constraint for BCDs are verified. The boundary configuration set is obtained. The capacity of BCDs is at least 7 MW, while the slope is 0 and the no‐load voltage is between 1730 and 1750 V. Finally, compared with the system with rectifiers and EFSs, the system with BCDs has better performance, which is 46.7 V less of the rail potential, 127.8 V less of network voltage fluctuation, and 735.56 kWh per hour more of the feedback energy.
Interventionen früh beginnen – Mobilität von Kindern mit Zerebralparese
Authors: Lieber Jan , Marsico Petra , Labruyère Rob
Published: September 2021

Die Zerebralparese ist die häufigste Ursache für körperliche Behinderungen im frühen Kindesalter. Sie begleitet die betroffenen Personen für den Rest ihres Lebens. Die Autor*innen geben einen Überblick, wie sich die Mobilität bei Zerebralparese entwickeln kann und wie wichtig es ist, dass auch Kinder schon frühzeitig ihr größtmögliches Potenzial ausschöpfen.
Fall für Vier – Zwischen On und Off
Authors: Ceballos-Baumann Andres , Wiebke Sporrer , Frauke Schroeteler , Manke Julia , Katharina Pichler
Published: September 2021

Sieben Jahre nach der Diagnose einer ParkinsonErkrankung und der weitgehenden Rückbildung der Symptomatik unter einer Dopamin-Ersatztherapie kommt es bei Lehrer Karl Bauer zu Wirkungsschwankungen der Medikamente. Symptome wie Rigor und Bradyhypokinese treten wieder verstärkt auf. Unterstützung erhält er durch eine multimodale Komplextherapie.
Development and Validation of an HPLC Method for the Analysis of Flowers of Wild-Growing Primula veris from Epirus, Greece
Authors: Chintiroglou Panagiota-Iro , Krigas Nikos , Chatzopoulou Paschalina , Karioti Anastasia
Published: September 2021

An HPLC-PDA method was developed for the determination of the flavonoids in the flowers of Primula veris from Epirus, Greece. The aim was to investigate the chemical content of the over-harvested P. veris populations of Epirus and to develop and optimize an extraction protocol to allow fast, exhaustive, and repeatable extraction. Qualitative analysis revealed that the P. veris flowers from Epirus were particularly rich in flavonoids, especially flavonol triglycosides including derivatives of quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol. A phytochemical investigation of a 70% hydromethanolic extract from the flowers afforded a new flavonoid, namely, isorhamnetin-3-Ο-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-glucopyranoside, which is also the main constituent of the flower extracts. Its structure elucidation was carried out by means of 1D and 2D NMR and mass spectrometry analyses. The HPLC-PDA method was developed and
validated according to the International Council for Harmonisation guidelines. Since the main flavonol glycoside of the plant is not commercially available, rutin was used as a secondary standard and the response correction factor was determined. Finally, the overall method was validated for precision (% relative standard deviation ranging between 1.58 and 4.85) and accuracy at three concentration levels. The recovery ranged between 93.5 and 102.1% with relative standard deviation values < 5%, within the acceptable limits. The developed assay is fast and simple and will allow for the quality control of the herbal drug.
Real-World Experience in Toxicity with Bevacizumab in Indian Cancer Patients
Authors: Patil Pratik P. , Rangaraju Ranga R. , Abbas Waseem , Garg Sunny
Published: September 2021

Background Bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody, known to block the binding of all known vascular endothelial growth factor-A isomers to their receptors, is used in solid cancers, especially in advanced settings where its role is proven to be stronger than localized stages. Furthermore, various studies have suggested that adding bevacizumab to first-line standard therapy in advanced solid cancers, such as colorectal cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, renal cancer, and breast cancer, significantly prolongs progression-free survival, overall survival, and response rates. However, this ability is limited and variable in cancer subtype. The toxicity profile of bevacizumab is outspread, ranging from mild gastrointestinal side effects, proteinuria to life-threatening hemorrhagic tendency, ischemic thromboembolism, and intestinal perforation. However, it has never been studied in Indian subset of patients till date.

Materials and Methods We performed an institutional retrospective study of 41 patients with a pathologically proven ovarian, colorectal, lung, mesothelioma, melanoma, round cell tumors, and GBMs who received bevacizumab (2.5 mg/kg/week [5 mg/kg every 2 weeks or 7.5 mg/kg every 3 weeks]) with or without chemotherapy, between January 2016 and January 2019 at our center in North India.

Results Forty-one patients, including 12 (29) advanced ovarian cancer, 12 (29) colon cancer, 10 (24) rectal cancer, 1 (2) appendicular cancer, 1 (2) mesothelioma, 1 (2) melanoma, 1 (2) desmoplastic round cell tumor, and 3 (7) GBM, were treated with bevacizumab. The incidence of arterial thrombus and hemorrhage was 2 and 10%, respectively, whereas venous thrombus and fistula were not seen and not related to age. No fatal adverse event was recorded. The global incidence of severe (grade 3/4) arterial hypertension (HTN) was 49%. It was safely managed in all cases, and no grade 4 (life-threatening complication) occurred. The incidence of severe HTN was significantly higher in elderly patients than in younger ones (72 vs. 40%), proteinuria was found to be more frequent in the younger age group as compared with older age group (7 vs. 3%). Also to note, the incidence of congestive heart failure and subacute intestinal obstruction was found in 5% of patients, wherein all four patients belonged to the older subgroup. Furthermore, Grade 3 hypersensitivity reaction was found in one patient in the younger subgroup which warranted immediate termination of bevacizumab.
Is MRI Overutilized for Evaluation of Knee Pain in Veterans?
Authors: Koenig Scott , Morcos George , Gopinath Rohan , Wang Kenneth , Henn Frank , Leong Natalie L.
Published: September 2021

MRI is an essential diagnostic imaging modality for many knee conditions; however, it is not indicated in the setting of advanced knee arthritis. Inappropriate MRI imaging adds to health care costs and may delay definitive management for many patients. The primary purpose of this study was to ascertain the frequency of inappropriate MRI scans performed at one Veterans' Administration Medical Center (VAMC). We performed a retrospective chart review of all knee MRIs ordered over a 6-month period. Inappropriate MRI was defined as MRI performed prior to radiographs (XRs), or in the presence of XRs demonstrating severe osteoarthritis, without leading to a nonarthroplasty procedure of the knee. Of the 304 cases reviewed, 36.8% (112) of the MRIs were deemed inappropriate, 33 were ordered by orthopedists, and 79 were ordered by other health care providers. Of the 33 ordered by orthopedists, 25 were ordered by retired/nonsurgical orthopedists. Obtaining an MRI delayed care by an average of 29.2 days. Of the 252 cases that had XR prior to MRI, none included all four views in the standard knee XR series and only four had weightbearing images. Over a third of knee MRIs performed at this VAMC were inappropriate and delayed care. Additionally, no XRs in our study contained all the necessary views to properly assess knee arthritis. These concerning findings signify a potential opportunity for education in diagnostic strategies, to better patient care and resource utilization in the VAMC.
Structural tuning of nonlinear terahertz metamaterials using broadside coupled split ring resonators
Authors: Keiser George R. , Karl Nicholas , Ul Haque Sheikh Rubaiat , Brener Igal , Mittleman Daniel M. , Averitt Richard D.
Published: September 2021

We present an experimental and numerical study of a terahertz metamaterial with a nonlinear response that is controllable via the relative structural arrangement of two stacked split ring resonator arrays. The first array is fabricated on an n-doped GaAs substrate, and the second array is fabricated vertically above the first using a polyimide spacer layer. Due to GaAs carrier dynamics, the on-resonance terahertz transmission at 0.4 THz varies in a nonlinear manner with incident terahertz power. The second resonator layer dampens this nonlinear response. In samples where the two layers are aligned, the resonance disappears, and the total nonlinear modulation of the on-resonance transmission decreases. The nonlinear modulation is restored in samples where an alignment offset is imposed between the two resonator arrays. Structurally tunable metamaterials and metasurfaces can therefore act as a design template for tunable nonlinear THz devices by controlling the coupling of confined electric fields to nonlinear phenomena in a complex material substrate or inclusion.
3D-printed B4C collimation for neutron pressure cells
Authors: Haberl Bianca , Molaison Jamie J. , Frontzek Matthias , Novak Eric C. , Granroth Garrett E. , Goldsby Desarae , Anderson David C. , Elliott Amy M.
Published: September 2021

A design for an incident-beam collimator for the Paris–Edinburgh pressure cell is described here. This design can be fabricated from reaction-bonded B4C but also through fast turnaround, inexpensive 3D-printing. 3D-printing thereby also offers the opportunity of composite collimators whereby the tip closest to the sample can exhibit even better neutronic characteristics. Here, we characterize four such collimators: one from reaction-bonded B4C, one 3D-printed and fully infiltrated with cyanoacrylate, a glue, one with a glue-free tip, and one with a tip made from enriched 10B4C. The collimators are evaluated on the Spallation Neutrons and Pressure Diffractometer of the Spallation Neutron Source and the Wide-Angle Neutron Diffractometer at the High Flux Isotope Reactor, both at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This work clearly shows that 3D-printed collimators perform well and also that composite collimators improve performance even further. Beyond use in the Paris–Edinburgh cell, these findings also open new avenues for collimator designs as clearly more complex shapes are possible through 3D printing. An example of such is shown here with a collimator made for single-crystal samples measured inside a diamond anvil cell. These developments are expected to be highly advantageous for future experimentation in high pressure and other extreme environments and even for the design and deployment of new neutron scattering instruments.
Formation of metal–semiconductor nanowire heterojunctions by nanosecond laser irradiation
Authors: Zheng Shuo , Duley Walter W. , Peng Peng , Zhou Y. Norman
Published: September 2021

Laser nano-joining has emerged as a preferred technique for better device performance as it can result in stronger mechanical contacts and enhance the electrical properties between nanocomponents. It is often used to bond metallic nanostructures, but there is little information available on the applicability of the corresponding processes for creating hybrid bonds between metal and semiconductor nanomaterials. In this article, we show that Nd:YAG nanosecond (ns) laser irradiation is an effective tool for use in the nano-joining of metal–semiconductor nanowire (NW) combinations. We show that photothermal, electron–hole pair creation and plasmonic effects combine to facilitate nano-joining with Nd:YAG ns laser radiation, producing similar interfacial structures to those occurring under femtosecond laser irradiation. We find that Nd:YAG laser irradiation is effective in the production of bonds between Ag–TiO2 and Ag–CuO NW structures but that the detailed mechanism involved in the creation of these bonds depends on the bandgap energy of the semiconductor NW. Direct heating of the semiconductor through photoexcitation of excitons and electron transfer to the conduction band is significant in the Nd:YAG laser nano-joining of low bandgap materials such as CuO. Coupling of surface plasmon resonance energy to electrical carriers in the semiconductor NW at the Ag-semiconductor interface is found to be important in all hybrid systems, including those involving a wide bandgap material such as TiO2. Since the Nd:YAG ns laser is widely available, these results suggest that nano-joining of heterogeneous materials with ns laser pulses is a practical alternative to joining with ultrashort laser radiation.
A neoclassically optimized compact stellarator with four planar coils
Authors: Yu Guodong , Feng Zhichen , Jiang Peiyou , Pomphrey Neil , Landreman Matt , Fu GuoYong
Published: September 2021

A neoclassically optimized compact stellarator with simple coils has been designed. The magnetic field of the new stellarator is generated by only four planar coils including two interlocking coils of elliptical shape and two circular poloidal field coils. The interlocking coil topology is the same as that of the Columbia Non-neutral Torus (CNT) [Pedersen et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 88, 205002 (2002)]. The new configuration was obtained by minimizing the effective helical ripple directly via the shape of the two interlocking coils. The optimized compact stellarator has very low effective ripple in the plasma core, implying excellent neoclassical confinement. This is confirmed by the results of the drift-kinetic code SFINCS [Landreman et al., Phys. Plasmas 21, 042503 (2014)], showing that the particle diffusion coefficient of the new configuration is one order of magnitude lower than CNT's.
Separation of quadrupolar and paramagnetic shift interactions in high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance of spinning powders
Authors: Aleksis Rihards , Pell Andrew J.
Published: September 2021

Separation and correlation of the shift anisotropy and the first-order quadrupolar interaction of spin I = 1 nuclei under magic-angle spinning (MAS) are achieved by the phase-adjusted spinning sideband (PASS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiment. Compared to methods for static samples, this approach has the benefit of higher sensitivity and resolution. Moreover, the PASS experiment has the advantage over previous MAS sequences in the ability to completely separate the shift anisotropy and first-order quadrupolar interactions. However, the main drawback of the pulse sequence is the lower excitation bandwidth. The sequence is comprehensively evaluated using theoretical calculations and numerical simulations and applied experimentally to the 2H NMR of a range of paramagnetic systems: deuterated nickel(II) acetate tetrahydrate, deuterated copper(II) chloride dihydrate, and two forms of deuterated oxyhydride ion conductor BaTiO3−xHy. Our results show that despite the issue with broadband excitation, the extracted shift and quadrupolar interaction tensors and the Euler angles relating the two tensors match well with the NMR parameters obtained with static NMR methods. Therefore, the new application of the PASS experiment is an excellent addition to the arsenal of NMR experiments for 2H and potentially 14N in paramagnetic solids.
On the requirements for determining the magnetic properties of a material based on the results of diagnostics of its rod sample
Authors: Sandulyak A. A. , Sandulyak A. V. , Shkatov P. N. , Tkachenko R. Yu. , Sandulyak D. A. , Ermolaev A. A.
Published: September 2021

An objective need for a discussion on the implementation of the method of experimental study of the magnetic properties of ferromagnetic materials with the use of “long” samples from these materials in the appropriate diagnostics (alternative to the method using classical toroidal samples) and argumentation of their sufficient relative length is shown. The question is raised about the consistency of the existing concept (postulated) concerning the required value of the ratio of the length of a rod sample of a cylindrical shape to its diameter L/D = [L/D] = 50 (starting from which, the magnetic parameters of the sample and its material should correspond to each other). To substantiate the choice of the criterion value L/D = [L/D], families (by L/D) of field dependences of magnetic induction, permeability, susceptibility, and magnetization for cylindrical steel samples were obtained, and on their basis and being very informative for this purpose, families of dependences of such parameters from L/D in the range L/D = 1–50 are determined. This made it possible to identify the values of L/D = [L/D] by the characteristic output of these dependences in the self-similar region. At the same time, a previously unreported fact was established that the values of L/D = [L/D] depend on the intensity of the magnetizing field H (and in a more general case on the magnetic properties of the material, in particular its magnetic permeability μ); hence, the criterion values [L/D] are as follows: from [L/D] = 10–15 at H = 54.2 kA/m (μ ≅ 31) to [L/D] = 50–60 at H = 4.7 kA/m (μ ≅ 272) and at H < 4.7 kA/m (μ > 272), [L/D] > 50–60, which is higher than the commonly believed value. Phenomenological expressions are obtained for [L/D], with arguments of both H and μ. It is also shown that for the practically used L/D range of samples, the exponential relationship between their demagnetizing factor and the power function of the L/D parameter is valid.
An improved peak-selection algorithm using block-based recurrence Cholesky decomposition for mesh deformation
Authors: Liu Jing , Fang Hong , Shan Fanli , Li Shu , Zhang He
Published: September 2021

An improved peak-selection algorithm is proposed for mesh deformation. With the use of the newly derived block-based recurrence Cholesky (BRC) decomposition scheme, the computational complexity for solving the linear algebraic system in the data reducing procedure is reduced from O(Nc4/Np) to O(Nc3), where Nc denotes the total number of support nodes and Np denotes the number of support nodes added at a time. Because the BRC decomposition scheme introduces block matrices, it involves more multiplications between matrices rather than between vectors. Due to the fact that the computation of matrix multiplication is more efficient with the use of the linear algebraic library, the efficiency for solving the linear algebraic system can be further increased. Two deformation problems are applied to validate the algorithm. The results show that it significantly increases the efficiency for solving the linear algebraic system, allowing the time consumption of this process to be reduced to only one sixth. Moreover, the efficiency will increase with the mesh scale. The results also show that it allows the efficiency of the data reducing procedure to improve by two times. Furthermore, it is found that only 1.094 s in total is required to solve the linear algebraic system with serial computing by constructing a set of as many as 2999 support nodes in a large-scale mesh deformation problem. It is indicated that the bottleneck of mesh deformation caused by inefficient parallel computing for solving the linear algebraic system can thus be removed. This makes the algorithm favorable for large-scale engineering applications.
Impact of a multiple-test strategy on breeding index development for the Australian dairy industry
Authors: Axford Michelle , Santos Bruno , Stachowicz Katarzyna , Quinton Cheryl , Pryce Jennie E. , Amer Peter
Published: September 2021

Context A high level of acceptance and use of breeding indices by farmers and breeding companies that target a National breeding objective is an effective strategy to achieve high rates of genetic gain. Indices require maintenance to ensure that they reflect current economic and genetic trends and farmer preferences. Often, indices are tested on an average herd on the basis of, for example, milk composition and calving pattern. However, this strategy does not differentiate the impact on breeds. Australian dairy farmers routinely make breeding decisions by using the balanced performance index (BPI) or the health weighted index, published by DataGene. Aims The aim of the present study was to test new selection indices on the most popular breeds to better understand the genetic progress that each breed is expected to make. Existing economic models were updated to reflect changing trends in input costs and milk income. Consultative processes identified opportunities to improve alignment between farmer preferences and Australia’s National Breeding Objective. In response, more than 20 selection index options were developed and options were discussed with industry. Methods Indices were evaluated on three breeds in the following three ways: (1) expected response to selection from the use of each index, (2) index and trait correlations, and (3) relative trait emphasis. Key results Farmer trait preferences varied by breed and this information was considered in the development of economic weights. The updated BPI has primary emphasis on production traits (44% in Holstein, 49% in Reds), secondary emphasis on health and fertility (35% in Holstein, 29% in Reds), tertiary emphasis on type, workability and feed saved. The equivalent index for Jerseys is similar, but following stakeholder feedback to multiple tests, it was decided to remove emphasis on the feed saved estimated breeding values, so that the percentage emphasis on trait groups in Jerseys is 51% production, 32% health and fertility and the remainder on type and workability. Implications Understanding trait preferences and testing indices on different breeds can change the decisions that are made during index development. Conclusions Developing a better understanding of the differences among breeds had a positive impact on farmer engagement and resulted in a modified BPI for the Jersey breed.