bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Valores de referencia de T1 mapping en individuos sanos en Resonancia Magnética Cardíaca 3.0 Tesla. Relación con edad y sexo. Comparación con diferentes poblaciones
Authors: Espinosa Ezequiel , Sforzin Patricia , D´Amico Andrés , De Stefano Luciano , Montaña Oscar
Published: September 2022

Introducción: El T1 mapping es una técnica que permite mejorar la caracterización tisular por resonancia magnética cardíaca (RMC), y posee creciente evidencia a su favor como herramienta de diagnóstico precoz y estratificación. Presentamos los resultados de la cuantificación del T1 nativo miocárdico en individuos sanos, estudiados en un campo de 3.0 T, a fin de proveer valores de referencia para el medio local. Material y métodos: Se incluyeron 124 individuos consecutivos derivados a nuestro centro para realización de RMC, cuyos estudios resultaron normales. Se midió el T1 mapping en un eje corto medioventricular. Se analizaron los resultados según edad y sexo. Se incluyeron también 27 pacientes con diagnóstico de miocardiopatía hipertrófica, 11 con diagnóstico de miocardiopatía dilatada y 8 con amiloidosis cardíaca. Resultados: Se analizaron 124 estudios. La media global de T1 mapping fue de 1220,7 ± 21,2 mseg. Redondeando a valores enteros, se consideró 1178-1263 mseg como “rango de normalidad” (p5-p95). Se observó un tiempo T1 ligeramente superior en mujeres. No hubo diferencias con respecto a la edad. Se observó una excelente reproducibilidad, evaluada por el coeficiente de correlación intraclase (0,97) y el método de Bland-Altman. Los valores de T1 mapping fueron significativamente superiores en los grupos de individuos portadores de miocardiopatía. Conclusiones: Reportamos valores normales de T1 mapping nativo en una población adulta local. Los mismos son levemente mayores en mujeres, diferencia que no impresiona relevante desde el punto de vista clínico. Al comparar con individuos portadores de miocardiopatía hipertrófica, dilatada o con amiloidosis cardíaca, se obtuvo una muy buena discriminación. La variabilidad interobservador fue muy baja.
Quantitative Analysis of Thrombocytes in Neonates in a Tertiary Care Centre of Southern India- A Retrospective Study
Authors: Pravallika Y Lakshmi , Daniel S James , Reddy VR Sudha
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count of less than 150×109/L, which is also applicable to newborn infants. It may be a result of increased platelet destruction (immune and non immune), decreased platelet production, and a combination of both or unknown. A platelet count of more than 500×109/L is considered thrombocytosis, classified as primary or essential and secondary or reactive. Abnormal platelet count being quite common, is most often neglected and it can lead to devastating complications if untreated. Aim: To study the incidence of abnormal platelet counts and to determine the risk factors associated with abnormal platelet counts in neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of platelet count of all neonates admitted to a tertiary NICU of RL Jalappa Hospital, Tamaka, Karnataka, India, between July 2020 and June 2021 was done to determine the incidence and risk factors associated with abnormal platelet count (thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis). Data of all the neonates were collected retrospectively from July 2021 to August 2021 and analysed. A total of 562 neonates were included in the study. Categorical data was taken and expressed in the form of frequencies and percentages. Data were entered as frequencies using Microsoft excel version 2203 and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22.0. Chi-square and Fischer’s exact test were used to determining the significance of the data. The p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 629 neonates admitted, 562 neonates were included in the study. Total 209 neonates had thrombocytopenia, with early thrombocytopenia being in 94 (45%) and late being in 115 (55%). Thrombocytosis was seen in only 15 neonates where 7 (46.6%) had early, and 8 (53.3%) had late thrombocytosis. The most common risk factor associated with both cases was sepsis. Placental insufficiency had a statistically significant association with thrombocytopenia (p<0.001**). Term babies had a higher incidence of thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis, and the association with thrombocytopenia was statistically significant (p=0.043*). Conclusion: Based on the present study, it can be concluded that abnormal platelet count is quite a common finding in sick neonates. Thrombocytopenia is more common than thrombocytosis. The most common risk factor is sepsis, it should not be neglected, and appropriate treatment should be initiated once an abnormal platelet count is detected in neonates.
Effect of Strategic Planning on the Performance of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Nigeria, Evidence from Delta State
Authors: Chukwuka Ernest Jebolise , Ese Imide Grace
Published: September 2022

The study investigated the connection between success in the SME sector and the adoption of strategic planning. Despite what appears to be improved institutional support for the sector and an apparent increase in interest in starting small and medium-sized businesses in Nigeria, performance seems to be falling short of expectations. According to several reports, the poor performance of SMEs may be caused by a variety of attitudes toward strategic planning. With the use of SPSS, a descriptive and regression analysis was performed. Findings of the study include the fact that market share growth in Delta state was significantly and favorably impacted by the implementation of strategic plans. In Delta State, there was a substantial and favorable correlation between the development of the strategic plan and the profitability of small and medium-sized enterprises. The examination of cross-functional decisions has a considerable and favorable impact on customer satisfaction in Delta State. The use of strategic planning as a concept and method to achieve organizational performance is recommended for the Small and Medium Enterprises in Delta State, Nigeria.
Effect of Heat Stress on Rice and Its Management
Authors: Nath Deb Jyoti , Dutta Chumki , Phyllei Damonhi
Published: September 2022

Rice is a major staple food, consumed by more than half of the world’s population and providing 20% of calories consumed worldwide. However, rice production is under serious threat due to rapid increase in the earth’s rising temperatures. Heat stress (HS) destroys the physiological processes like seed germination, photosynthesis, respiration and plant growth. HS also has detrimental effects on the plant root system that provides water uptake, nutrient uptake and supports other parts of the plant, leading to disruption of root growth and development, as well as decrease in shoot and root fresh, and dry weight. As a result there is a drastic reduction in the yield and quality of the grain. HS affects all the growth stages of rice. However, the reproductive phase of rice is more sensitive to HS than other stages. Most agronomic management approaches concentrate on early sowing, site-specific cropping and irrigation system changes, and adoption of a late or early maturing cultivar to avoid high temperatures during grain filling to combat HS. Growth regulators such cytokines, salicylic acid, and ethylene precursors can also be used to treat rice plants suffering from HS related damage such as pollen abortion, decreased spikelet’s per panicle and kernel weight, and low seed-setting rate. In numerous rice cultivars, exogenous treatment of spermidine boosted photosynthetic and antioxidant capability and partially reduced the yield penalty brought on by HS. Developing germplasm with higher tolerance to climate-induced stresses through breeding is a sound climate change or abiotic stresses adaptation strategy. Higher thermo-tolerance may be induced by choosing cultivars that flower in the early morning before the temperature rises and have larger anthers with long basal pores, higher basal dehiscence, and pollen viability. Breeding rice varieties tolerance to high temperature has so far received little attention as compared to other abiotic stresses like drought and salinity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore the breeding aspect for heat tolerance in rice varities for better management of loss due to heat stress.
Evaluation of Fungicides and Bio-Agents against Ascochyta Blight (Ascochyta rabiei) of Chickpea under Dryland Conditions of Kashmir, India
Authors: Bashir Sabiya , Mughal Mohammad Najeeb , Majeed Shabeena , Rashid Zahida , Naseer Sabeena , Dar Zahoor A. , Hakeem S. A. , Rasool Faisal , Nagoo Shaheena , Ashraf Sabiha , Iqbal Shahida
Published: September 2022

Five non-systemic fungicides: chlorothalonil, carbendazim (12%) + mancozeb (63%), captan 50WP, dodine 65WP and copper oxychloride 50WP and four systemic fungicides viz., difenoconozole 25EC, carbendazim 50WP, hexaconozole 5EC and mycobutanil 10WP were evaluated against Aschochyta blight of chickpea caused by Ascochyta rabiei. The in-vitro evaluation of non-systemic fungicides through poisoned food technique at five different concentrations: 50,100, 250, 500 and 1000 µg ml-1 fungicides showed that carbendazim (12%) + mancozeb (63%) proved most effective and resulted in highest mycelial growth inhibition (82.27%) of the pathogen followed by dodine with mycelial growth inhibition of 67.99%. The least efficacious fungicide was copper oxychloride with only 29.81% mycelial growth inhibition. Among the systemic fungicides evaluated at concentrations of 25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 µg ml-1, carbendazim proved to be the most effective and caused highest mycelial growth inhibition of 90.23% followed by difenconozole (71.24%). Myclobutanil 10WP was least efficacious among the systemic fungicides and resulted in only 52.76% of mycelial growth inhibition. Among the three methods used for evaluation of efficacy of fungicides and bio-agents, revealed that the seed treatment with carbendazim (12%) + mancozeb (63%) proved most effective with lowest disease incidence (15.0%) and disease intensity (4.02%). Among the biological control agents used, seeds treated with Bacillus subtilis proved the most effective which resulted in disease incidence and intensity of 32.25 and 20.04%, respectively. Combination treatment comprising of seed treatment with Bacillus subtilis at concentration of 109spores ml-1 and foliar spray with mancozeb 63% WP+ carbendazim12%WP at the concentration of 2.5% was most efficacious and resulted in lowest disease incidence (7.80%) and disease intensity of (4.82%) while seed treatment with Bacillus subtilis at the concentration 109 spores ml-1alone was least efficacious and resulted in highest disease incidence of 53.80% with disease intensity of 37.25%. It was, however superior than control where disease incidence and intensity was 80.00% and 51.34 %, respectively.
Growth Performance of Coconut Production in Global Scenario: A Quin-decadal Analysis
Authors: Narmadha N. , Karunakaran K. R.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is to examine the coconut sector's growth performance and instability in the world context. Since Indonesia, Philippines and India are the world's biggest producer of coconuts which accounted for 75 per cent of overall production in the world and contribute around 80 percent of the total land for coconut farming. Area, production, and yield of coconut were collected from Faostat and ICC websites based on secondary data from 1990-91 to 2020-21. The study period was divided into period I (1990-91 to 2005-06) and period II (2006-07 to 2020-21). The study examines growth patterns using the compound growth rate, measures instability using the Coppock’s instability index, and investigates the role of area and yield on production using decomposition analysis. The results revealed that growth rate of area was positive for Indonesia, Philippines and Indonesia for all the period. But production trend was negative in respective countries due to yield trend shows negative growth on period II. Similar results were found from instability index and decomposition analysis. This may due to poor management practices, severe diseases and pests of the plantations. Hence, greater attention needs to be given to the states where to attract and encourage many new farmers into coconut cultivation by accessing modern technology, quality plantations, credit facilities by support of government.
Health repercussions of COVID-19: perceptions of the elderly / Repercussões da covid-19 na terceira idade: percepções dos idosos
Authors: Schleicher Maira Lidia , Barros de Souza Lima Jeane , Spiegelberg Zuge Samuel , Schulter Buss Heidemann Ivonete Teresinha , Walker Fernanda , De Prado Pilger Kelly Cristina
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: desvelar as percepções dos idosos sobre as repercussões da COVID-19 na terceira idade. Método: estudo exploratório, descritivo, com abordagem qualitativa. Participaram do estudo 20 idosos residentes em Santa Catarina, Brasil. A coleta de dados ocorreu por meio de questões semiestruturadas, através de vídeo chamada no WhatsApp® devido à pandemia. Para a organização e análise dos dados utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias: 1) Sentimentos dos idosos despertados no enfrentamento da COVID-19; 2) Vivências dos idosos na conjuntura pandêmica. Conclusão: a situação pandêmica despertou sentimentos de tristeza, solidão, ansiedade, saudade e medo nos idosos, além de dificuldades na adaptação ao isolamento, frente ao distanciamento físico de familiares e amigos, com interrupção das atividades de lazer, trabalho e atividades físicas. Contudo, as tecnologias foram aliadas na manutenção do contato com outras pessoas, apesar das dificuldades no manuseio.
Incidence of Dermatomyositis in a Nationwide Cohort Study of US Veterans
Authors: Bolender Caitlin M. , Jimenez Amber , Clarke Jennie T. , Willson Tina M. , Stevens Vanessa W. , Rhoads Jamie L. W.
Published: September 2022

This cohort study evaluates the incidence of dermatomyositis and its trend over time in the US Department of Veterans Affairs health care system.
Metal Pretreatment
Authors: Goodreau Bruce H. , Opdycke Walter , Foster Kathryn , Kramer Kirk , Smith Thomas , Vonk Donald
Published: September 2022

Metal pretreatment is a process by which metal surfaces are chemically transformed to provide improved corrosion protection and adhesion of subsequent coatings or adhesives. The metal pretreatment process consists of multiple steps and can vary significantly depending upon the metal substrate and technical requirements. A brief overview of each step in the metal pretreatment process and several technical requirements are described.
Landscapes of synchronous multiple primary cancers detected by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Kong Yiru , Li Jing , Lin Hao , Liang Xiaohua , Zhou Xinli
Published: September 2022

An increase in the detection rate of multiple primary cancers has been accompanied with declining cancer death rates over the past few decades. However, synchronous multiple primary tumors have gradually increased, and the molecular mechanisms involved in the synchronous occurrence of multiple primary cancers of different origins are unclear. To investigate these mechanisms, we sequenced cancer tissues by FoundationOne CDx. Data were annotated with annovar, and we then performed pathway enrichment analysis. A total of 109 genes that were mutated in all samples were clustered into different diseases, biological processes, and molecular functions. GO and KEGG analyses indicated that the P53 and PKB signaling pathways may be relevant to the occurrence of synchronous multiple primary cancers. In summary, patients with a concordance of mutations in pathogenetic genes may have a higher risk of developing a second cancer. Our research may provide a basis for the development of individualized treatments for synchronous multiple primary cancers.
Randomized Trial of Tocilizumab in the Treatment of Refractory Adult Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis
Authors: Oddis Chester V. , Rockette Howard E. , Zhu Lei , Koontz Diane C. , Lacomis David , Venturupalli Swamy , Moghadam‐Kia Siamak , Ascherman Dana P. , Crofford Leslie , Dimachkie Mazen M. , Ernste Floranne , Gazeley David , Marder Galina , Aggarwal Rohit
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of tocilizumab in a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in refractory adult patients with dermatomyositis (DM) and polymyositis (PM).

Methods

Thirty‐six subjects with probable or definite DM/PM were enrolled in a 6‐month phase 2B clinical trial and randomized 1:1 to receive tocilizumab (8 mg/kg intravenously) or placebo every 4 weeks for 24 weeks. Eligible subjects had either a DM rash, a myositis‐associated autoantibody or an adjudicated PM diagnosis. Active disease was defined by at least three of six abnormal core set measures (CSMs), including a manual muscle testing (MMT)‐8 score of less than 136/150. If the MMT‐8 score was greater than 136, then a cutaneous score of 3 or more (10 cm visual analogue scale) was required along with three additional abnormal CSMs indicating disease activity. The primary endpoint compared the Total Improvement Score (TIS) between both arms from week 4 to 24. Secondary outcomes included time to meeting minimal TIS improvement, changes in CSMs, time to worsening, steroid‐sparing effect, proportion of subjects meeting more stringent improvement criteria, and safety outcomes.

Results

There was no significant difference (P = 0.86) in the TIS over 24 weeks between tocilizumab and placebo arms. The secondary endpoints of time to improvement (minimal, moderate, or major), time to worsening, CSM changes, safety outcomes, and steroid‐sparing effect were also not significantly different between arms.

Conclusion

Tocilizumab was safe and well tolerated but did not meet the primary or secondary efficacy outcomes in refractory DM and PM in this 24‐week phase 2B study.
Laser‐Directed Energy Deposition Additive Manufacturing of Nickel–Titanium Coatings: Deposition Morphology, Microstructures, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Yuan Luhao , Gu Dongdong , Lin Kaijie , Dai Donghua , Yang Jiankai , Huang Guangjing , Xiong Ke
Published: September 2022

To overcome the disadvantages of comparatively poor surface hardness and deprived resistance against wear of Ti–6Al–4V alloy, the protective NiTi coatings are fabricated at different processing parameters by laser‐directed energy deposition (LDED). This work presents a comprehensive study of deposition morphology, phase constituents, microstructural evolution, composition distribution, and mechanical properties of as‐fabricated NiTi deposition tracks. The relationship among processing parameters and deposition morphology, phase constituents, and mechanical properties is established. The microstructural evolution mechanism and the composition distribution on the cross section of deposition tracks are revealed. Results show that the deposition tracks are successfully formed under all laser processing parameters, and the dilution ratio increases with the increase in laser power and scanning speed. The deposition tracks consist of NiTi2, NiTi, and α–Ti. According to the microstructural analysis, planar crystals are formed between the substrate and the deposition tracks, and columnar and equiaxed dendrites are found in the deposition tracks. The average microhardness increases continuously with the increase in laser power. The deposition track prepared at laser power of 1400 W has the highest average microhardness of 732.45 HV0.2. The deposition track at this laser power exhibits excellent wear properties, with a wear rate of 2.25 × 10−6 mm3 Nm−1.
Macroscopic Heterostructure Membrane of Graphene Oxide/Porous Graphene/Graphene Oxide for Selective Separation of Deuterium Water from Natural Water
Authors: Liang Jing , Zhang Xin , Liu Tian‐qi , Gao Xu‐dong , Liang Wen‐bin , Qi Wei , Qian Li‐juan , Li Zhan , Chen Xi‐meng
Published: September 2022

Deuterium water (D2O) is a strategic material that is widely used in and scientific research and has applications in fields such as nuclear energy generation. However, its content in natural water is extremely low. Therefore, the development of a room‐temperature technology for achieving simple, efficient, and low‐cost separation of D2O from natural water is challenging. In this study, porous graphene (PG) nanosheets with “crater‐like” pores are sandwiched between two layers of graphene oxide (GO) membranes to prepare a GO/PG/GO membrane with a macroscopic heterostructure, which can be used to separate D2O and H2O by pressure‐driven filtration. At 25 °C, the rejection rate of D2O is ≈97%, the selectivity of H2O/D2O is ≈35.2, and the excellent performance can be attributed to the difference of transmembrane resistance and flow state of H2O and D2O in the confinement state. In addition, the D2O concentration in natural water is successfully enriched from 0.013% to 0.059% using only one stage, and the membrane exhibits excellent structural and cycling stability. Therefore, this method does not require ultralow temperatures, high energy supplies, complex separation equipment, or the introduction of toxic chemicals. Thus, it can be directly applied to the large‐scale industrial production and removal of D2O.
A Coupled Spintronics Neuromorphic Approach for High‐Performance Reservoir Computing
Authors: Akashi Nozomi , Kuniyoshi Yasuo , Tsunegi Sumito , Taniguchi Tomohiro , Nishida Mitsuhiro , Sakurai Ryo , Wakao Yasumichi , Kawashima Kenji , Nakajima Kohei
Published: September 2022

The rapid development in the field of artificial intelligence has increased the demand for neuromorphic computing hardware and its information‐processing capability. A spintronics device is a promising candidate for neuromorphic computing hardware and can be used in extreme environments due to its high resistance to radiation. Improving the information‐processing capability of neuromorphic computing is an important challenge for implementation. Herein, a novel neuromorphic computing framework using spintronics devices is proposed. This framework is called coupled spintronics reservoir (CSR) computing and exploits the high‐dimensional dynamics of coupled spin‐torque oscillators as a computational resource. The relationships among various bifurcations of the CSR and its information‐processing capabilities through numerical experiments are analyzed and it is found that certain configurations of the CSR boost the information‐processing capability of the spintronics reservoir toward or even beyond the standard level of machine learning networks. The effectiveness of our approach is demonstrated through conventional machine learning benchmarks and edge computing in real physical experiments using pneumatic artificial muscle‐based wearables, which assist human operations in various environments. This study significantly advances the availability of neuromorphic computing for practical uses.
Base‐Promoted Intermolecular Trifluoroacetyl Amination of Alkynes via C−N Cleavage of Amides: An Atom‐Economic Way to Trifluoromethyl‐Containing Tetrasubstituted Olefin Derivatives
Authors: Gu Yingge , Wang Zongkang , Cheng Lu , Kang Qiongwen , Li Yanzhong
Published: September 2022

A novel base‐promoted and highly efficient strategy for preparation of trifluoromethyl‐containing tetrasubstituted olefin derivatives has been developed. The trifluoroacetyl amination of alkynes is realized by C−N cleavage of trifluoroacetamides without any transition‐metal catalysts. Readily accessible substrates, good functional group tolerance and atom economy make this approach attractive for the synthesis of trifluoromethyl‐containing tetrasubstituted olefins.
What X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy Can Tell Us About the Active State of Earth‐Abundant Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction**
Authors: Risch Marcel , Morales Dulce M. , Villalobos Javier , Antipin Denis
Published: September 2022

Implementation of chemical energy storage for a sustainable energy supply requires the rational improvement of electrocatalyst materials, for which their nature under reaction conditions needs to be revealed. For a better understanding of earth‐abundant metal oxides as electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), the combination of electrochemical (EC) methods and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is very insightful, yet still holds untapped potential. Herein, we concisely introduce EC and XAS, providing the necessary framework to discuss changes that electrocatalytic materials undergo during preparation and storage, during immersion in an electrolyte, as well as during application of potentials, showing Mn oxides as examples. We conclude with a summary of how EC and XAS are currently combined to elucidate active states, as well as an outlook on opportunities to understand the mechanisms of electrocatalysis using combined operando EC–XAS experiments.
DNA interaction, cytotoxic and phototoxic properties of new water‐soluble zinc (II) phthalocyanines
Authors: Biyiklioglu Zekeriya , Baş Hüseyin , Altun Yasemin , Yalçın Can Özgür , Barut Burak
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we have synthesized water‐soluble peripherally tetra and octa‐({6‐[3‐(dimethylamino)phenoxy]hexyl}oxy) groups substituted zinc (II) phthalocyanines (DM‐C6‐ZnQ and o‐DM‐C6‐ZnQ). Also, we have investigated ct‐DNA binding, supercoiled plasmid DNA cleavage properties of DM‐C6‐ZnQ and o‐DM‐C6‐ZnQ by using spectrophotometric and electrophoretic methods. On the other hand, cytotoxic and phototoxic effects of DM‐C6‐ZnQ and o‐DM‐C6‐ZnQ were examined using (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cell lines. In UV–Vis absorption studies, hypochromism was observed about 18% for DM‐C6‐ZnQ and 57% for o‐DM‐C6‐ZnQ on addition of increasing concentrations of ct‐DNA. The intrinsic binding constant (Kb) values of DM‐C6‐ZnQ and o‐DM‐C6‐ZnQ were 3.82 (±0.14) × 104 M−1 and 2.34 (±0.05) × 105 M−1, respectively. The supercoiled plasmid DNA cleavage studies showed that DM‐C6‐ZnQ and o‐DM‐C6‐ZnQ had no DNA damage actions in the dark. On the other hand, they caused DNA damage depending on the light dose. In the MTT assay, the compounds had low cytotoxic properties on A549 cell lines, but they showed significant phototoxic actions. These results reveal that the compounds interact with DNA and have phototoxic properties; it has been determined that they have the potential to be photosensitizing agents for photodynamic therapy.
High‐lignin‐content rice straw cellulose nanofibers/graphene oxide nanocomposites films: Electrical and mechanical properties
Authors: Abdel‐Aal Seham K. , Hassan Mohammad L. , Abou Elseoud Wafaa S. , Ward Azza
Published: September 2022

Rice straw nanofibers (RSNF) with high lignin content were used in making nanocomposites with graphene oxide (GO) at loading ratios from 0.625% to 5% (based on weight of RSNF). The prepared RSNF/GO films were characterized regarding their tensile strength, equilibrium moisture content (EMC), and electrical properties. Microstructure of the films was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Addition of 2.5% of GO resulted in increasing tensile strength and Young's modulus by 33.5% and 21.5%, respectively. Presence of GO significantly reduced moisture sorption of the films. Electrical conductivity measurement showed significant increase in permittivity (ε′) upon increasing GO loading. The ionic conductivity value of films containing 5% of GO was 10−7 S cm−1, which is acceptable value for use as antistatic and/or dissipated films. The electrical properties of the prepared low‐cost high‐lignin‐content RSNF/GO films could have potential use in flexible electronic applications such as in energy harvesting and storage.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor induced myocarditis, myasthenia gravis, and myositis: A single‐center case series
Authors: Longinow Joshua , Zmaili Mohammad , Skoza Warren , Kondoleon Nicholas , Marquardt Robert , Calabrese Cassandra , Funchain Pauline , Moudgil Rohit
Published: September 2022

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors can result in overlap syndrome comprised of myasthenia gravis, myositis and myocarditis. However, the mortality predictors have not been clearly delineated.

Methods

We examined the characteristics of 11 patients diagnosed with overlap syndrome at Cleveland Clinic. All the available clinical, diagnostic, biochemical and disease specific factors were examined. Clinical predictors of increased mortality were using student t‐test for parametric data and Wilcoxon‐signed rank testing for nonparametric data.

Results

Seven patients out of eleven patients were alive during the analysis. Our study did confirm that troponins were indicator of early demise. However, study showed that elevated creatinine, BUN, and decreased hemoglobin were also observed in patients who met early demise. Unlike previously published studies, elevated NT Pro‐BNP and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction were not a seen in this study. However, there were higher incidence of electrical abnormalities in deceased patients when compared to alive.

Conclusion

Our study is first to examine various clinical parameters of overlap syndrome that might be predictive of mortality. This study confirms troponin as possible predictor and adds elevated creatinine, BUN and reduced hemoglobin as possible early biomarkers in deceased patients. The analysis showed that reduced LVEF was not a seen in deceased patients.
A stratified therapeutic model incorporated with studies on regulatory B cells for elderly patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Tang Wenjiao , Li Yan , Zou Zhongqing , Cui Jian , Wang Fangfang , Zheng Yuhuan , Hou Li , Pan Ling , Xiang Bing , Chang Hong , Zhang Li , Niu Ting
Published: September 2022

Objective

Despite the availability of new agents, elderly patients with multiple myeloma (MM) usually present with poor outcomes due to the heterogeneity of disease conditions, especially immune deficiency. Regulatory B cells (Bregs) can be involved in immune defects by exerting immune regulatory functions in MM. In order to provide more evidence‐based practice for the elderly MM, the study established and assessed a stratified therapeutic model with studies on Bregs for Chinese Elderly Multiple Myeloma in 2021 (CEMM2021).

Methods

In this open‐label, non‐interventional, prospective study in the real world, 159 newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) patients over 65 years old were sequentially recruited and bone marrow aspirates prior to treatment were obtained to detect the ratios of Bregs by flow cytometry.

Results

Based on the CEMM2021 model, 147 patients had received at least one cycle of induction therapy, including bortezomib/dexamethasone (Bd) (n = 80), lenalidomide/dexamethasone (Rd) (n = 27), Bd with a third agent X (Bd + X) (n = 27), and other regimens (n = 13). The proportions of patients achieving very good partial response or better were comparable among Bd, Bd + X, and Rd groups (41.9% vs. 54.5% vs. 44.0%, p = 0.472). Besides, the progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were not significantly different among Rd, Bd, and Bd + X groups. Multivariable analysis showed that induction efficacy less than partial response (PR) were poor prognostic factors for PFS, while Revised‐International Staging System (R‐ISS) III and efficacy less than PR were poor prognostic factors for OS. This study also found that the ratios of bone marrow Bregs <10% (p = 0.036) and SUVmax of PET‐CT scan >4.2 (p = 0.000) were closely correlated with OS in the elderly MM.

Conclusions

For the elderly NDMM, the CEMM2021 algorithm in our center might provide a valuable reference for the guidance of therapeutic strategies, with the combination of Bregs resulting in an effective and clinically meaningful prediction in contemporary treatment.
Dirty necrosis in renal cell carcinoma is associated with NETosis and systemic inflammation
Authors: Kuroe Takashi , Watanabe Reiko , Morisue Ryo , Miyazaki Saori , Kojima Motohiro , Murata Shawhay Charles , Nakai Tokiko , Taki Tetsuro , Sakashita Shingo , Sakamoto Naoya , Matsubara Nobuaki , Masuda Hitoshi , Ushiku Tetsuo , Ishii Genichiro
Published: September 2022

Aim

Dirty necrosis (DN) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is morphologically characterized by abundant neutrophil infiltration and has significant potential as an unfavorable prognostic indicator. This study aimed to analyze the pathological and biological features of DN.

Materials and Methods

A total of 81 RCC tumors, including 33 cases of DN and 48 cases of tumor necrosis without DN features (ghost necrosis [GN]), were enrolled in this study. We compared the number of neutrophils; the activation of cell death pathways, including ferroptosis, NETosis, and apoptosis; the rate of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT); and proliferation status using immunohistochemistry. We further assessed the effect of the necrosis type on systemic inflammation.

Results

DN tumors had a significantly higher number of neutrophils in both areas around the necrotic foci and far from the necrotic foci. Ferroptosis status did not differ between DN and GN; however, DN tumors had significantly larger areas exhibiting cell detritus with neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) detected by citrullinated histone H3 (citH3) than GN tumors. DN tumors also had more apoptotic cells within areas around the necrotic foci. There was no significant difference between the EMT and proliferation status between DN and GN groups. Systemic inflammation markers including C‐reactive protein (CRP), CRP‐to‐albumin ratio (CRP/Alb), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and hemoglobin were significantly higher in patients with DN. In addition, some of these inflammation markers (CRP/Alb and PLR) significantly decreased after surgery.

Conclusions

DN in RCC is characterized by NETs production and systemic inflammation.
Proline C−H Bonds as Loci for Proline Assembly via C−H/O Interactions
Authors: Daniecki Noah J. , Bhatt Megh R. , Yap Glenn P. A. , Zondlo Neal J.
Published: September 2022

Proline residues within proteins lack a traditional hydrogen bond donor. However, the hydrogens of the proline ring are all sterically accessible, with polarized C−H bonds at Hα and Hδ that exhibit greater partial positive character and can be utilized as alternative sites for molecular recognition. C−H/O interactions, between proline C−H bonds and oxygen lone pairs, have been previously identified as modes of recognition within protein structures and for higher‐order assembly of protein structures. In order to better understand intermolecular recognition of proline residues, a series of proline derivatives was synthesized, including 4R‐hydroxyproline nitrobenzoate methyl ester, acylated on the proline nitrogen with bromoacetyl and glycolyl groups, and Boc‐4S‐(4‐iodophenyl)hydroxyproline methyl amide. All three derivatives exhibited multiple close intermolecular C−H/O interactions in the crystallographic state, with H⋅⋅⋅O distances as close as 2.3 Å. These observed distances are well below the 2.72 Å sum of the van der Waals radii of H and O, and suggest that these interactions are particularly favorable. In order to generalize these results, we further analyzed the role of C−H/O interactions in all previously crystallized derivatives of these amino acids, and found that all 26 structures exhibited close intermolecular C−H/O interactions. Finally, we analyzed all proline residues in the Cambridge Structural Database of small‐molecule crystal structures. We found that the majority of these structures exhibited intermolecular C−H/O interactions at proline C−H bonds, suggesting that C−H/O interactions are an inherent and important mode for recognition of and higher‐order assembly at proline residues. Due to steric accessibility and multiple polarized C−H bonds, proline residues are uniquely positioned as sites for binding and recognition via C−H/O interactions.
Real‐world VASCADE closure device versus manual compression use and outcomes in patients with severe common femoral artery disease
Authors: Nagpal Sameer , Scierka Lindsey E. , Castro‐Dominguez Yulanka , Kansal Dhruv , Kunnirickal Steffne , Hussain Yasin , Love Keith , Aboian Edouard , Smolderen Kim G. , Mena‐Hurtado Carlos
Published: September 2022

Background

The VASCADE closure device deploys an extravascular collagen plug. Its use in those with access site disease undergoing peripheral vascular intervention (PVI) is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the VASCADE closure device compared to manual compression (MC) in patients with moderate femoral access site disease.

Methods

We performed a single‐center, retrospective review of patients undergoing PVI with at least moderate access site disease. Our institutional database was linked to the Vascular Quality Initiative database, and 200 patients were selected from a 1:1 propensity‐matched cohort. Data on procedural metrics and outcomes up to 30‐days were abstracted.

Results

There were 103 procedures that used VASCADE and 97 used MC. Baseline variables were similar between groups. The mean age was 68.2 ± 11.2 years and 37.6% were women. Closing mean activated clotting time (ACT) was shorter in VASCADE (198 s VASCADE vs. 213 s MC; p = 0.018). There was a nonsignificant decrease in external compression device use with VASCADE (VASCADE 19.0% vs. MC 28.1%; p = 0.15). At 30‐days, there was a nonsignificant reduction in hematoma with VASCADE (3.8% vs. 7.8% MC; p = 0.25) and no difference in retroperitoneal bleeding (0.5%). Pseudoaneurysm rate was similar (1.3% VASCADE vs. 1.7% MC; p = 0.79). The 30‐day mortality rate was similar between the two groups and not related to the procedure (1.3% VASCADE vs. 0.9% MC; p = 0.79).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing PVI with at least moderate access site disease, safety and efficacy after using VASCADE was comparable with MC.
Kinetics and Mechanism of Catalytic Oxidation Desulfurization of Gasoline Liquefied Petroleum Gas in MeroxTMProcess with Microfluidics
Authors: Gao Zhangyi , Jiang Linjing , Zhang Jiawei , Zhu Jiqin , Du Le , Wang Yujun
Published: September 2022

Catalytic oxidation desulfurization of gasoline liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a key process for the utilization of petroleum hydrocarbons. However, the inherent mechanism remains unclear and the kinetic investigation is usually performed in processes with limited mass transfer rates. Herein, the kinetics and mechanism of catalytic oxidation of sodium ethyl mercaptide were investigated with microfluidics. The effects of temperature, pressure, residence time, and gas‐liquid flow ratio on the oxidation were assessed on the basis of eliminating mass transfer resistance. According to the results of UV‐vis spectra and binding constant, it was confirmed that the catalytic center was in the form of the dimer. A heterogeneous reaction kinetic model was proposed as such. The kinetic parameters close to intrinsic kinetics and corresponding kinetic rate expression were obtained.
Assessment of the Lubricity of Grease‐Sealing Rotary Shaft Seals Based on Grease Properties
Authors: Hahn Susanne , Feldmeth Simon , Bauer Frank
Published: September 2022

Grease‐lubricated sealing systems have an increased risk of starved lubrication. For this work, the lubricity of 23 greases in a rotary shaft sealing system was evaluated with a new test and evaluation method. The lubricity was then correlated with rheological and other grease properties. These grease properties are either available by the data sheet or can be measured with low effort. The results of the correlation allow a preselection of greases which are expected to lubricate rotary shaft seals well. This can support manufacturers and users in considering the lubrication of the sealing system early in the development process.
Catalytic Nitrene Transfer by an FeIV‐Imido Complex Generated by a Comproportionation Process
Authors: Donat Jordan , Dubourdeaux Patrick , Clémancey Martin , Rendon Julia , Gervasoni Clara , Barbier Morgan , Barilone Jessica , Pécaut Jacques , Gambarelli Serge , Maldivi Pascale , Latour Jean‐Marc
Published: September 2022

Nitrene transfer reactions have emerged as one of the most powerful and versatile ways to insert an amine function to various kinds of hydrocarbon substrates. However, the mechanisms of nitrene generation have not been studied in depth albeit their formation is taken for granted in most cases without definitive evidence of their occurrence. In the present work, we compare the generation of tosylimido iron species and NTs transfer from FeII and FeIII precursors where the metal is embedded in a tetracarbene macrocycle. Catalytic nitrene transfer to reference substrates (thioanisole, styrene, ethylbenzene and cyclohexane) revealed that the same active species was at play, irrespective of the ferrous versus ferric nature of the precursor. Through combination of spectroscopic (UV‐visible, Mössbauer), ESI‐MS and DFT studies, an FeIV tosylimido species was identified as the catalytically active species and was characterized spectroscopically and computationally. Whereas its formation from the FeII precursor was expected by a two‐electron oxidative addition, its formation from an FeIII precursor was unprecedented. Thanks to a combination of spectroscopic (UV‐visible, EPR, Hyscore and Mössbauer), ESI‐MS and DFT studies, we found that, when starting from the FeIII precursor, an FeIII tosyliodinane adduct was formed and decomposed into an FeV tosylimido species which generated the catalytically active FeIV tosylimide through a comproportionation process with the FeIII precursor.
A novel hybrid half‐bridge LLC resonant converter with double resonant tanks for high step‐down applications
Authors: Lu Song , Ma Hongbo , Yi Junhong , Li Xiaobin , Li Jian
Published: September 2022

Conventional half‐bridge (HB) LLC converters have been a good candidate for the first stage in the two‐stage conversion structure because of its high conversion efficiency and high frequency operation ability. However, the voltage gain is only 0.5 exclusive of the transformer, resulting in the reduced efficiency for high step‐down applications. In order to solve this issue, in this paper, a novel hybrid HB LLC converter with double resonant tanks is firstly presented for high step‐down ratio applications. The distinctive features of the proposed converter are as follows: (1) the voltage gain of 0.25 is achieved by incorporating the switched capacitor circuit. Thus, the primary turns number for the transformer is halved compared with conventional HB LLC converters. Correspondingly, the smaller primary side winding losses and transformer volume can be implemented. (2) The power splitting and low input current ripple can be obtained due to the employed double resonant tanks. Thus, the uniform thermal distribution and low input filter capacitance are the second advantage for the proposed converter. (3) Soft switching over the entire operation range still can be maintained with larger magnetics inductance. The detailed operation principles, circuit analysis, and resonant tank design for the proposed converter are introduced and presented. A hardware prototype with 36–60 V input, 3 V/50 A‐output is built to demonstrate the declared features of the proposed hybrid converter.
No relationship between chronotype and timing of breeding when variation in daily activity patterns across the breeding season is taken into account
Authors: Meijdam Marjolein , Müller Wendt , Thys Bert , Eens Marcel
Published: September 2022

There is increasing evidence that individuals are consistent in the timing of their daily activities, and that individual variation in temporal behavior is related to the timing of reproduction. However, it remains unclear whether observed patterns relate to the timing of the onset of activity or whether an early onset of activity extends the time that is available for foraging. This may then again facilitate reproduction. Furthermore, the timing of activity onset and offset may vary across the breeding season, which may complicate studying the above‐mentioned relationships. Here, we examined in a wild population of great tits (Parus major) whether an early clutch initiation date may be related to an early onset of activity and/or to longer active daylengths. We also investigated how these parameters are affected by the date of measurement. To test these hypotheses, we measured emergence and entry time from/into the nest box as proxies for activity onset and offset in females during the egg laying phase. We then determined active daylength. Both emergence time and active daylength were related to clutch initiation date. However, a more detailed analysis showed that the timing of activities with respect to sunrise and sunset varied throughout the breeding season both within and among individuals. The observed positive relationships are hence potentially statistical artifacts. After methodologically correcting for this date effect, by using data from the pre‐egg laying phase, where all individuals were measured on the same days, neither of the relationships remained significant. Taking methodological pitfalls and temporal variation into account may hence be crucial for understanding the significance of chronotypes.
Pt‐WOx/C Catalysts for α, β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes Hydrogenation: An NMR Study of the Effect of the Reactant Adsorption on Activity and Selectivity
Authors: Stucchi Marta , Vasile Francesca , Cattaneo Stefano , Vomeri Alessandro , Hungria Ana B. , Prati Laura
Published: September 2022

The selective hydrogenation of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes is an ideal case for studying the structure‐activity relationships in heterogeneous catalysis. In particular, cinnamaldehyde can be used as probe molecule for revealing the competition between hydrogenation of C=C and C=O bond. Here, we investigated the effect of the modification of some Pt supported on carbon catalysts by WOxspecies in cinnamaldehyde hydrogenation, as WOxspecies are reported to increase the adsorption and activation of the C=O group of α, β‐unsaturated aldehydes. Classical techniques used for correlating the catalyst activity and the selectivity to the characteristic of the materials (XRD, HAADF‐STEM, XEDS mapping and XPS) have been coupled with NMR relaxometry, as innovative application, to disclose how the molecule approaches the catalyst surface. This indeed constitutes a crucial aspect that rule the catalytic activity. Therefore, an innovative, holistic approach has been used to consider the whole catalytic system.
Toward a Li‐Ion Battery Ontology Covering Production and Material Structure
Authors: Mutz Marcel , Perovic Milena , Gümbel Philip , Steinbauer Veit , Taranovskyy Andriy , Li Yunjie , Beran Lisa , Käfer Tobias , Dröder Klaus , Knoblauch Volker , Kwade Arno , Presser Volker , Werth Dirk , Kraus Tobias
Published: September 2022

An ontology for the structured storage, retrieval, and analysis of data on lithium‐ion battery materials and electrode‐to‐cell production is presented. It provides a logical structure that is mapped onto a digital architecture and used to visualize, correlate, and make predictions in battery production, research, and development. Materials and processes are specified using a predetermined terminology; a chain of unit processes (steps) connects raw materials and products (items) of battery cell production. The ontology enables the attachment of analytical methods (characterization methods) to items. Workshops and interviews with experts in battery materials and production processes are conducted to ensure that the structure is conformable both for industrial‐scale and laboratory‐scale data generation and implementation. Raw materials and intermediate products are identified and defined for all steps to the final battery cell. Steps and items are defined based on current standard materials and process chains using terms that are in common use. Alternative structures and the connection of the ontology to other existing ontologies are discussed. The contribution provides a pragmatic, accessible way to unify the storage of materials‐oriented lithium‐ion battery production data. It aids the linkage of such data with domain knowledge and the automation of data analysis in production and research.