bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational Design of 1D Porous Carbon Microtubes Supporting Multi‐size Bi2O3 Nanoparticles for Ultra‐long Cycle Life Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Xu Qianwen , Jiu Hongfang , Zhang Lixin , Song Wei , Gao Tiantian , Guo Fengbo , Li Xin , Wei Hao , Wang Congli , Liu Yujing , Wang Shirui
Published: November 2021

Multi‐size Bi2O3 nanoparticles supported by 1‐dimensional (1D) porous carbon microtubes (ms‐Bi2O3/CMTs) were favorably constructed through surface‐ion release and in‐ situ oxidation strategy. The prominent 1D porous microtube materials with multi‐size nanoparticles structure can furnish more plentiful electrochemical active sites and shorten lithium storage paths for high‐speed redox reactions, which was conducive to ion transport kinetics. The CV tests with various scan rates verified lithium storage mechanism of ms‐Bi2O3/CMTs with diffusion/capacitance control coexistence. The complexes illustrated an ultra‐long cycle life and extraordinary reversible capacity: it still had a specific capacity of 392.6 mAh g−1 after 3000 cycles at 1 A g−1; and it manifested 546.3 mAh g−1 when it returned to 0.05 A g−1 and continued to 100 cycles after experiencing different current densities of 0.05–5 A g−1, which indicated that ms‐Bi2O3/CMTs is a prospective anode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs).
Photobase‐Driven Excited‐State Intramolecular Proton Transfer (ESIPT) in a Strapped π‐Electron System
Authors: Suzuki Naoya , Kubota Tomoya , Ando Naoki , Yamaguchi Shigehiro
Published: November 2021

We report a new design strategy for an excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) fluorophore that can be used in acidic media. A photobasic pyridine‐centered donor‐acceptor‐donor‐type fluorophore is combined with a basic trialkylamine “strap”. In the presence of an acid, protonation occurs predominantly at the amine moiety in the ground state. A single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of a pre‐organized intramolecular hydrogen‐bonded structure between the resulting ammonium moiety and the pyridine ring. Upon excitation, the intramolecular charge‐transfer transition increases the basicity of the pyridine moiety in the excited state, resulting in proton transfer from the amine to the pyridine moiety. Consequently, the fluorophore takes on a polymethine‐dye character in the ESIPT state, which gives rise to significantly red‐shifted emission with an increased fluorescence quantum yield.
Copper‐Catalyzed Direct Perfluoroalkylation of Heteroarenes
Authors: Baguia Hajar , Evano Gwilherm
Published: November 2021

An efficient and broadly applicable process is reported for the copper‐catalyzed direct perfluoroalkylation of C−H bonds in heteroarenes with commercially available perfluoroalkyl iodides. This reaction is based on a simple combination of copper(I) iodide and 1,10‐phenanthroline enabling the easy reduction of perfluoroalkyl iodides to the corresponding radical species that add to a wide range of heteroarenes including benzofurans, benzothiophenes, (aza)indoles, furans and pyrroles. High levels of regioselectivity were obtained in all cases and the efficiency and robustness of this process was highlighted by the direct perfluoroalkylation of furan‐containing peptides.
Synthetic Fuels from Biomass: Photocatalytic Hydrodecarboxylation of Octanoic Acid by Ni Nanoparticles Deposited on TiO2
Authors: Du Xiangze , Peng Yong , Albero Josep , Li Dan , Hu Changwei , García Hermenegildo
Published: November 2021

Decarboxylation of low‐value fatty acids from biomass is a simple process to produce synthetic fuels suitable to be blended with gasoline or diesel. The present study reports the photocatalytic decarboxylation of octanoic acid in the presence of H2 by a series of modified TiO2 to form mixtures of n‐heptane and tetradecane as major products in variable proportions, depending on the photocatalyst and the reaction conditions. It was found that the photocatalytic activity increases upon an optimal reductive NaBH4 treatment, presumably by generation of surface oxygen vacancies and by the deposition of Ni nanoparticles in the appropriate loading. Under the optimized conditions, an almost complete octanoic acid conversion and a combined selectivity to n‐heptane and tetradecane over 80 % were reached at 10 h of UV/Vis light irradiation with a 300 W Xe lamp. No changes in the photocatalytic performance were observed for six consecutive runs. The present results illustrate the possibility that photocatalytic decarboxylation offers for the transformation of biomass into synthetic fuels under mild conditions.
Sustainable Route Toward N‐Boc Amines: AuCl3/CuI‐Catalyzed N‐tert‐butyloxycarbonylation of Amines at Room Temperature
Authors: Cao Yanwei , Huang Yang , He Lin
Published: November 2021

N‐tert‐butoxycarbonyl (N‐Boc) amines are useful intermediates in synthetic/medicinal chemistry. Traditionally, they are prepared via an indirect phosgene route with poor atom economy. Herein, a step‐ and atom‐economic synthesis of N‐Boc amines from amines, t‐butanol, and CO was reported at room temperature. Notably, this N‐tert‐butyloxycarbonylation procedure utilized ready‐made substrates, commercially available AuCl3/CuI as catalysts, and O2 from air as the sole oxidant. This catalytic system provided unique selectivity for N‐Boc amines in good yields. More significantly, gram‐scale preparation of medicinally important N‐Boc amine intermediates was successfully implement, which demonstrated a potential application prospect in industrial syntheses. Furthermore, this approach also showed good compatibility with tertiary and other useful alcohols. Investigations of the mechanisms revealed that gold catalyzed the reaction and copper acted as electron transfer mediator in the catalytic cycle.
High‐voltage gain magnetically coupled half‐bridge Z‐source inverter
Authors: Aalami Mohammadamin , Babaei Ebrahim , Ghassem Zadeh Saeid
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a new impedance‐source inverter based on the half‐bridge configuration is presented. The proposed topology has two switches that make four working modes. These operational modes are analyzed in detail, leading to obtaining the proposed topology's boost‐factor. Besides, some equations are derived that are used to design passive elements such as capacitors and inductors. Besides, the voltage stresses on the switches and diodes are obtained. A comparative study from the boost‐factor point of view is depicted, which shows that the proposed topology brings a high boost‐factor at the output stage. By utilizing transformers, this topology gains a high boost‐factor which can be adjusted by changing transformers' windings' turn. In addition to this comparison, other detailed comparisons show that the proposed topology has a reduced number of components with reduced voltage stresses on the passive devices. Finally, to verify the proposed topology's valid performance, a prototype is designed, and its results are studied.
A DSP‐based implementation of fuzzy logic and predictive current control for a Sheppard–Taylor power factor correction converter
Authors: Bouafassa Amar , Fernández‐Ramírez Luis M.
Published: November 2021

Ensuring a high electric power quality of power systems and electric machinery continues to be a major challenge for power engineers. The research on harmonic reduction and improvement of power factor in connection to alternating current (AC) networks has intensified. This paper focuses on the simulation and real‐time implementation of a single‐phase Sheppard–Taylor power factor correction (PFC) rectifier. Compared to conventional PFC rectifiers, this converter provides a better network current tracking and reduces voltage stresses. Furthermore, it proves an ability to control a detuning phenomenon from which most of the PFC circuits suffer. This yields a significant enhancement in the power quality (PQ). The proposed control scheme consists of two successive controllers: (1) a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) for the voltage loop, which ensures a good robustness to changes in parameters; and (2) a predictive current control (PCC), which allows to achieve a sinusoidal network current and improves the power factor. The proposed configuration is examined by simulation and implemented in real‐time using a dSPACE DS1104 controller board. The robustness of the proposed control is tested under different loading conditions and output voltage variations. The obtained results validate the superiority of the applied approach in terms of unity power factor (0.998), THD of the network current (3.7%, approximately), and fast dynamic response.
Comparison of electrostatic and mechanical cell sorting with limited starting material
Authors: Staunstrup Nicklas H. , Petersen Charlotte C. , Fuglsang Tina , Starnawska Anna , Chernomorchenko Ana , Qvist Per , Schack Vivien R.
Published: November 2021

Isolation of multiple cell populations from limited starting material and with minimal influence on cell homeostasis and viability are common requirements in both basic and clinical research. Fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) is the most commonly applied sorting methodology with the majority of instruments being based on high pressure and electrostatic deflection. A more recent technology is based on a mechanical valve, operating at low pressure. In the present work we compared the two technologies by parallel sorting of small amounts of peripheral blood and umbilical cord blood on a BD FACSAria™ III and Miltenyi MACSQuant® Tyto® instrument. Concurrent manually performed magnetic‐based cell sorting served as reference. Sorting metrics, including purity and viability, were compared. Expression of the heat‐shock protein HSPA1A immediately post sorting and the proliferation potential of sorted T‐cells in vitro was assessed. In general, there was little to distinguish the two fluorescence‐activated technologies with regard to sorting metrics and HSPA1A expression. Variation, however, with respect to recovery and viability, was much smaller among Tyto sorted samples. The proliferation potential of Tyto‐sorted T‐cells was significantly higher compared to Aria‐sorted T‐cells, indicating that T‐cells of the Tyto instrument are less perturbed. In summary, cell types of blood origin including CD34+ cells could effectively be isolated from small input amounts with either fluorescence‐activated technology with little immediate effect on viability. The mechanical valve‐based sorting by the Tyto instrument; however, appeared to perturb the cells to a lesser extent as judged by their proliferation potential.
99mTechnetium‐pyrophosphate scintigraphy: a practical guide for early diagnosis of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tahara Nobuhiro , Lairez Olivier , Endo Jin , Okada Atsushi , Ueda Mitsuharu , Ishii Tomonori , Kitano Yoshinobu , Lee Hahn‐Ey , Russo Eleonora , Kubo Toru
Published: November 2021

Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR‐CM) is caused by the cardiac deposition of insoluble amyloid fibrils formed by misfolded transthyretin proteins and is associated with various cardiac symptoms, such as progressive heart failure, conduction disturbance, and arrhythmia. The implementation of 99mtechnetium (99mTc)‐labelled bone radiotracer scintigraphy for diagnosing ATTR‐CM has enabled accurate diagnosis of the disease with high sensitivity and specificity and positioned this diagnostic modality as an integral part of disease diagnostic algorithms. In 2020, 99mTc‐pyrophosphate scintigraphy received exceptional approval for Japanese national health insurance reimbursement as a diagnostic method of ATTR‐CM. Nevertheless, the utility of 99mTc‐labelled bone radiotracer scintigraphy and the importance of an early diagnosis of suspected ATTR‐CM using this technique have yet to be internalized as common practice by general cardiologists, and guidance on daily clinical scenarios to consider this technique for a diagnosis of suspected ATTR‐CM is warranted. In this review, we discuss the utility of 99mTc‐labelled bone radiotracer scintigraphy for the early diagnosis of ATTR‐CM based on published literature and the outcomes of an advisory board meeting. This review also discusses clinical scenarios that could support early diagnosis of suspected ATTR‐CM as well as common pitfalls, correct implementation, and future perspectives of 99mTc‐labelled bone radiotracer scintigraphy in daily clinical practice. The clinical scenarios to consider 99mTc‐labelled bone radiotracer scintigraphy in daily practice may include, but are not limited to, patients with a family history of the hereditary type of disease; elderly patients (aged ≥60 years) with unexplained cardiac findings (e.g. cardiac hypertrophy associated with abnormalities on an electrocardiogram, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction associated with unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy, and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction associated with atrial fibrillation and left ventricular hypertrophy); and patients with cardiac hypertrophy associated with diastolic dysfunction, right ventricular/interatrial septum/valve thickness, left ventricular sparkling, or apical sparing. Cardiac hypertrophy and persistent elevation in cardiac troponin in elderly patients are also suggestive of ATTR‐CM. 99mTc‐labelled bone radiotracer scintigraphy is also recommended in patients with characteristic cardiac magnetic resonance findings (e.g. diffuse subendocardial late gadolinium enhancement patterns, native T1 increase, and increase in extracellular volume) or patients with cardiac hypertrophy and bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome.
Imprint of unconventional T‐cell response in acute hepatitis C persists despite successful early antiviral treatment
Authors: Du Yanqin , Khera Tanvi , Strunz Benedikt , Deterding Katja , Todt Daniel , Woller Norman , Engelskircher Sophie Anna , Hardtke Svenja , Port Kerstin , Ponzetta Andrea , Steinmann Eike , Cornberg Markus , Hengst Julia , Björkström Niklas K. , Wedemeyer Heiner ,   the HepNet Acute HCV Ⅳ Study Group
Published: November 2021

Unconventional T cells (UTCs) are a heterogeneous group of T cells that typically exhibit rapid responses toward specific antigens from pathogens. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes dysfunction of several subsets of UTCs. This altered phenotype and function of UTCs can persist over time even after direct‐acting antiviral (DAA)‐mediated clearance of chronic HCV. However, it is less clear if and how UTCs respond in acute, symptomatic HCV infection, a rare clinical condition, and if rapid DAA treatment of such patients reverses the caused perturbations within UTCs. Here, we comprehensively analyzed the phenotype and reinvigoration capacity of three major UTC populations, mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, γδ T cells, and CD4 and CD8 double‐negative αβ T cells (DNT cells) before, during, and after DAA‐mediated clearance of acute symptomatic HCV infection. Furthermore, MAIT cell functionality was systematically studied. We observed a reduced frequency of MAIT cells. However, remaining cells presented with a near‐to‐normal phenotype in acute infection, which contrasted with a significant dysfunction upon stimulation that was not restored after viral clearance. Notably, DNT and γδ T cells displayed a strong activation ex‐vivo in acute HCV infection, which subsequently normalized during the treatment. In addition, DNT cell activation was specifically associated with liver inflammation and inflammatory cytokines. Altogether, these data provide evidence that UTCs respond in a cell type‐specific manner during symptomatic HCV infection. However, even if early treatment is initiated, long‐lasting imprints within UTCs remain over time.
Artificial neural network application in predicting probabilistic seismic demands of bridge components
Authors: Soleimani Farahnaz , Liu Xi
Published: November 2021

Probabilistic seismic demand models (PSDMs) of bridge components such as column and abutment are commonly developed through classical linear regression techniques in which a univariate model format is predefined in the logarithmically transformed space. The more advanced machine learning (ML)‐based PSDMs incorporate various sources of uncertainties, which eventually leads to a more credible prediction of the seismic demands of bridge components and enhances the vulnerability assessment of the overall bridge systems. Despite the emerging advancements in ML approaches, many of them have not yet been introduced to estimate bridge seismic responses. To this end, the present study seeks to develop predictive PSDMs using a reputable ML approach, the artificial neural network (ANN). Relative to the classical univariate PSDMs, the ANN‐based PSDMs improve the median estimation of demands, particularly over the large and small range of ground motion intensities and reduce the total prediction variability. Moreover, the proposed ANN‐based approach provides a generalizable model with an unbiased prediction of the seismic demands. The ANN‐based PSDMs can be further used in estimating the probability of structural damage in the fragility and risk assessment process.
Aging experiments on the 20 Ah lithium‐ion polymer battery cells
Authors: Liu Yiqun , Liao Y. Gene , Lai Ming‐Chia
Published: November 2021

The battery capacity loss and power degradation due to aging process is one of the concerns particularly in vehicle electrification. This paper investigates the effects of charging/discharging current C‐rate, operating ambient temperature, and cycling on the battery cell aging and aging progress. Two groups of aging experiments are conducted on the lithium‐ion polymer battery cells with 20 Ah capacities. The first group of aging tests investigate the effects of charging/discharging C‐rate and operating ambient temperature on the battery cell capacity after 300 cycles. After 300 cycles, the cell with 3 C‐rates charging/discharging cycling currents under 40°C ambient temperature retains 64.53% usable capacity, comparing to 94.61% usable capacity in the cell with 1 C‐rate charging/discharging cycling currents under 20°C. The second group of tests investigate the cell aging progress during 800 aging cycles under normal working conditions (1 C‐rate charging, 2 C‐rate discharging, and 25°C ambient temperature). The results show that the cell's usable capacity is 75.17% after 800 cycles. The internal resistance of the cell could be 0.0235 Ω after 300 cycles of 3 C‐rate charging/discharging cycles under 40°C, or as high as 0.034 Ω after 800 cycles of 1 C‐rate charging/2 C‐rate discharging cycles under 25°C.
What does Bill Gates' call mean? A policy transfer analysis on creating an early warning system to prevent the next pandemic
Authors: Keser Ahmet , Ozbek Cumali , Keser Elifsu
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to discuss the need for an early warning system in order to prevent a new epidemic that may occur in the future and, if necessary, which system will be and how this warning system will be designed.

Methods

A qualitative analysis through the World Health Organization (WHO) documents, an interview with a key expert, and a policy transfer analysis was conducted.

Results

An early warning system is needed for new outbreaks that may occur in the future. We have seen that the Early Warning Alert and Response system (EWARs), which is implemented by WHO as a policy transfer in Syria, is successful in this area and the system can be easily adapted and established. The implementation of the system in Syria and the successful performance of the early warning system can be systematically transferred to other regions of the world with the policy transfer approach as a public health policy and the implementation phases in the study. The successful transfer of EWARs from WHO to Syria provides a good sample for the integration of a system developed by international and/or non‐governmental organizations into an administration system of a state under pandemic and crises conditions.
Major epidemiological features of first‐ever ischemic stroke in Tuzla Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Mujanovic Adnan , Smajlovic Dzevdet
Published: November 2021

Background and aims

Opacity of data on stroke for Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) is mainly due to the lack of a unified national stroke registry. This article aims to present updated epidemiological data on the etiology and risk factors for first‐ever ischemic stroke in Tuzla Canton, B&H.

Methods

This retrospective hospital‐based study included all first‐ever ischemic stroke patients admitted between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2018 at the Neurology Department, University Clinical Center Tuzla.

Results

First‐ever ischemic stroke was diagnosed in 739 patients. Leading risk factors were hypertension (94%), diabetes mellitus (40.7%), and dyslipidemia (38.8%). The most common stroke subtypes were atherothrombotic (36.8%), cardioembolic (21.9%), and stroke of undetermined etiologies (19.2%). Mean NIHSS score at discharge was 13 (IQR 2‐16), and favorable patient outcome (mRs ≤2) was recorded in 26.4% patients. Men (aOR 0.39; 95% CI 0.24‐0.64) and younger patients (aOR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93‐0.98) had significantly higher probability of having a favorable outcome at discharge. Dyslipidemia could be considered as a predictive factor for patient outcome (aOR 0.66; 95% CI 0.43‐1.00).

Conclusions

More than 92% of our patients had at least one modifiable risk factor, with hypertension and diabetes being at the forefront. One out of four patients had become functionally independent at discharge, while hospital mortality was lower than in other Eastern European countries. The overarching goal should be steered toward the development of a national stroke registry, which should be used as a reference for all further stroke management activities.
Compost topdressing to suppress necrotic ringspot and improve the overall health of Kentucky bluegrass lawns
Authors: Qian Yaling , Wilhelm Sarah
Published: November 2021

A study was conducted in northern Colorado to evaluate the effectiveness of two compost products on the improvement of turfgrass color and quality, necrotic ringspot (NRS) disease suppression, and thatch reduction. Two Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) home lawns with a history of NRS were chosen for the study. Treatments were applied twice during the 2018 growing season after all plots were aerated and consisted of (a) inoculated compost topdressing at a rate of 66 m3 ha–1, (b) dairy manure compost topdressing at a rate of 66 m3 ha–1, (c) urea fertilizer at 49 kg N ha–1, and (d) a control (aeration only with no fertilizer or compost applied). Data were collected every 2 wk from May to October in 2018, and included the percentage of disease‐affected turf, and turfgrass color and quality. Thatch depth was measured monthly. The inoculated and conventional compost plots had less disease than the control, and the inoculated compost showed significant disease suppression earlier than conventional compost. Season‐long averages showed that the plots treated with either of the compost products had better color and turf quality than the control. When data were pooled over the course of the growing season, there were no significant differences between the two compost treatments with regard to NRS disease severity or quality. Thatch depth in plots that received inoculated compost was 17% less than in plots that received conventional compost and fertilizer. This study demonstrated that compost decreased NRS incidence and improved turf color and quality.
A putative F‐box‐domain‐encoding gene AOL_s00076g207 regulates the development and pathogenicity of Arthrobotrys oligospora
Authors: Peng Hui , Dong Xinyuan , Lu Hengqian , Kong Xiaowei , Zha Xiangdong , Wang Yongzhong
Published: November 2021

F‐box protein is a key component of the Skp1‐cullin‐F‐box‐type ubiquitin ligase complex (SCF‐ULC) that marks its target proteins with ubiquitin for proteasomal degradation. In this study, we explored the potential role of AOL_s00076g207 (Aog207) in Arthrobotrys oligospora, a model fungus for studying nematodes‐fungi interactions. The Aog207 gene encodes a putative F‐box protein of the SCF‐ULC. Deletion of Aog207 could inhibit mycelial growth in TYGA and PDA media. More importantly, the conidial germination rate of ΔAog207 mutants was remarkably declined compared to that of wild‐type (WT) strain, and the mutant strains were more sensitive toward chemical stressors than the WT strain. In addition, ΔAog207 mutants generated fewer traps and captured fewer nematodes than WT strain. In summary, Aog207 disruption significantly affected the pathogenicity, mycelial growth, conidial germination, environmental adaptation and trap formation of A. oligospora. These findings may facilitate a better understanding of the nematode predation mechanism of A. oligospora and provide an experimental basis for developing biological control agents against nematodes.
Comparison of soil phosphorus index systems for grassland in the cross‐border region of Ireland#
Authors: Vero Sara E. , Doody Donnacha , Cassidy Rachel , Higgins Suzanne , Nicholl Gillian , Campbell Julie , Mellander Per‐Erik , McDonald Noeleen , Burgess Edward , Daly Karen , Sherry Erin
Published: November 2021

Background

The use of soil phosphorus (P) tests and index systems provides a guide for agronomic nutrient requirements and is frequently also used to estimate risk of P losses to watercourses. Use of soil testing and management based on the results thereof is mandated in some regions. Several P extraction methods are available which evaluate different P pools and are designed for particular soil types. Further to this, index systems categorising specific ranges of plant‐available P, differ. Hence, translation between different tests and index systems is not straightforward. In cross‐border regions, where hydrologic basins encompass more than one political jurisdiction, different tests and rules are implemented in adjacent lands. This can create disparities in land management, confusion as to what legislation applies and obscures the impacts of best management practices at catchment scale.

Aims

The aim of this research was to compare the Morgan's and Olsen soil tests used to quantify plant‐available P and the respective index systems, in a border region of the Republic of Ireland (ROI)–Northern Ireland (NI).

Methods

Olsen, Morgans and water extractable P (WEP) were evaluated (n = 1,038). Statistical analysis was conducted to derive conversion equations to translate between the statutory test methods and comparison of the respective index categories was performed.

Results

The conversion equations compared favourably with previous attempts. A stronger relationship was observed between Morgan P and WEP (R2 = 0.60) than between Olsen P and WEP (R2 = 0.45) (including pH and site as interaction factors). The ROI index system was found to indicate lower levels of plant available P in the soil compared to the NI system, for the same soils.

Conclusions

The differences in categorisation of P availability using either index system creates differences in fertiliser recommendations and also perceived aquatic risks even within small cross‐border catchments. This study points to a wider implication for international cross‐border catchments, suggesting that evaluation of the relationships between adjacent national soil index systems is required to achieve harmonised management of shared waterbodies. Neither index system is preferred, but a combination of soil P tests incorporating both agronomic and environmentally oriented analyses may have utility in future decision support tools.
Climate, glacial and vegetation history of the polar Ural Mountains since c. 27 cal ka bp, inferred from a 54 m long sediment core from Lake Bolshoye Shchuchye
Authors: Lenz Marlene M. , Andreev Andrei , Nazarova Larisa , Syrykh Liudmila S. , Scheidt Stephanie , Haflidason Haflidi , Meyer Hanno , Brill Dominik , Wagner Bernd , Gromig Raphael , Lenz Matthias , Rolf Christian , Kuhn Gerhard , Fedorov Grigoriy , Svendsen John Inge , Melles Martin
Published: November 2021

Because continuous and high‐resolution records are scarce in the polar Urals, a multiproxy study was carried out on a 54 m long sediment succession (Co1321) from Lake Bolshoye Shchuchye. The sedimentological, geochemical, pollen and chironomid data suggest that glaciers occupied the lake's catchment during the cold and dry MIS 2 and document a change in ice extent around 23.5–18 cal ka bp. Subsequently, meltwater input, sediment supply and erosional activity decreased as local glaciers progressively melted. The vegetation around the lake comprised open, herb and grass‐dominated tundra‐steppe until the Bølling‐Allerød, but shows a distinct change to probably moister conditions around 17–16 cal ka bp. Local glaciers completely disappeared during the Bølling‐Allerød, when summer air temperatures were similar to today and low shrub tundra became established. The Younger Dryas is confined by distinct shifts in the pollen and chironomid records pointing to drier conditions. The Holocene is characterised by a denser vegetation cover, stabilised soil conditions and decreased minerogenic input, especially during the local thermal maximum between c. 10 and 5 cal ka bp. Subsequently, present‐day vegetation developed and summer air temperatures decreased to modern, except for two intervals, which may represent the Little Ice Age and Medieval Warm Period.
Use of a purified β‐glucosidase from coral‐associated microorganisms to enhance wine aroma
Authors: Su Hongfei , Xiao Zhenlun , Yu Kefu , Zhang Qi , Lu Chunrong , Wang Guanghua , Wang Yinghui , Liang Jiayuan , Huang Wen , Huang Xueyong , Wei Fen
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

β‐Glucosidases (3.2.1.21) play essential roles in the removal of nonreducing terminal glucosyl residues from saccharides and glycosides. However, the full potential and different applications of recombinant high‐yield microbial β‐glucosidase‐producing systems remain to be tackled.

RESULTS

A β‐glucosidase gene designated as Mg132 was isolated from a coral microorganism by high‐throughput sequencing and functional screening. The deduced amino acid sequences of Mg132 showed a highest identity of 97% with β‐glucosidase predicted in the GenBank database. This gene was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) for the first time. The optimal pH and temperature of purified recombinant Mg132 were 8.0 and 50 °C respectively. It exhibited a high level of stability at high concentration of glucose and ethanol, and glucose concentrations below 300 mmol L–1 distinctly stimulated p‐nitrophenyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside hydrolysis, reaching 200% at 15% ethanol. The Km and Vmax values were 0.293 mmol L–1 and 320 μmol min−1 mg−1 respectively while using p‐nitrophenyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside as a substrate. Wine treated with Mg132 had an obvious positive catalytic specificity for glycosides, which give a pleasant flavor of temperate fruity and floral aromas. The total concentration of fermentative volatiles was 201.42 ± 10.22 μg L−1 following Mg132 treatment and 99.21 ± 7.72 μg L−1 in control samples.

CONCLUSION

Good tolerance of winemaking and aroma fermentative properties suggest that Mg132 has potential application in aroma enhancement in wine and warrants further study. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Utility of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in cases of incomplete cytoreductive surgery
Authors: Mangieri Christopher W. , Moaven Omeed , Valenzuela Cristian D. , Erali Richard A. , Votanopoulos Konstantinos I. , Shen Perry , Levine Edward A.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) during cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is typically reserved for a complete or optimal cytoreduction. There is the potential for therapeutic effect of HIPEC with an incomplete cytoreduction, particularly for near optimal cytoreductions.

Methods

Retrospective review of incomplete cytoreductions (R2b, R2c) for appendiceal and colorectal primaries. Primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). Subgroup analysis for primary etiology and specific cytoreductive score.

Results

A total of 121 cases of incomplete CRS, 74 CRS alone, and 47 CRS‐HIPEC. For the entire study group there was a survival benefit with HIPEC. OS and PFS were 2.3 versus 1.4 (p = 0.001) and 1.6 versus 0.7 (p < 0.0001) respectively for cases with and without HIPEC. Subgroup analysis of appendiceal neoplasms, 43 CRS‐HIPEC and 50 CRS alone, found HIPEC benefit persisted; OS and PFS were 2.4 versus 1.5 (p = 0.016) and 1.7 versus 0.8 (p < 0.0001), respectively for cases with and without HIPEC. Benefit most pronounced in low‐grade cases with doubling of the OS and PFS (p = 0.004). With colorectal primary cases, 10 CRS‐HIPEC and 18 CRS alone, no difference in OS and PFS. When stratifying out by cytoreduction scores, R2b and R2c, HIPEC only provided a benefit for R2b cases; OS and PFS for R2b cases were 2.28 versus 1.01 (p = 0.011) and 1.67 versus 0.75 (p = 0.001), respectively for cases with and without HIPEC.

Conclusion

HIPEC has utility for incomplete cytoreductions with appendiceal neoplasms, greatest effect with low‐grade appendiceal neoplasms. HIPEC is only beneficial for near optimal cytoreductions (R2b).
Pain and Opioid Consumption Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Pandrangi Vivek C. , Scott Brian L. , Pailet Jasmina , Mace Jess C. , Farrell Nyssa F. , Geltzeiler Mathew , Smith Timothy L. , Detwiller Kara Y.
Published: November 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Surgeons have a critical role in the current opioid epidemic, and there is a need to prospectively understand patterns of pain and opioid use among patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Study Design

Prospective observational cohort.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational cohort study that included patients undergoing ESS from November 2019 to March 2020. Demographic data were collected at baseline, as was respondent information regarding preoperative anxiety, pain, and postoperative pain expectations. Opioid use was converted to milligram morphine equivalents (MME). All patients received 10 tablets of 5 mg oxycodone (75 MME). Patients quantified postoperative pain and opioid consumption via telephone follow‐up every 48 hours. The primary outcome was total MME utilized.

Results

There were 91 patients included in the final cohort. Mean opioid use was 35.2 ± 47.3 MME. There were 29 (32%) patients who did not use any opioids after surgery, and six (7%) patients who required opioid refills. Postoperative opioid use was associated with increased preoperative anxiety (r = 0.41, P < .001), preoperative pain (r = 0.28, P = .007), and expectations for postoperative pain (r = 0.36, P < .001). Increased postoperative pain was only associated with increased opioid use on postoperative days 0–2 (r = 0.33, P = .001) and 3–4 (r = 0.59, P < .001). On multivariate regression, former smoking (β = 23.4 MME, SE = 10.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.3–43.5, P = .023) and anxiety (β = 35.9, SE = 10.2, 95% CI: 15.6–56.3, P < .001) were associated with increased MME.

Conclusions

The majority of patients have minimal opioid use after ESS, and pain appears to influence opioid use within the first 4 days after surgery. Additionally, patients with anxiety may benefit from alternative pain management strategies to mitigate opioid consumption.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:2096–2102, 2022
Philosophers' perceptions of pay to publish and open access in Spain: Books versus journals, more than a financial dilemma
Authors: Feenstra Ramón A. , López‐Cózar Emilio Delgado
Published: November 2021

Pay to publish and open access have been studied extensively, but less so in disciplines such as philosophy and ethics. This study examines the habits and perceptions of researchers from these two fields in Spain. The study draws on data from a survey (completed by 201 out of 541 researchers), a public debate with 26 researchers, and 14 in‐depth interviews. Our results offer some interesting insights into the criteria researchers apply when selecting publishers and journals, notably the value they place on the absence of publication fees. However, habits differ for publishing an article or a book, since payment to publish books is more widespread. The study finds contrasting views on the market for publishing books and journals: some respondents perceived what they consider to be the commercialisation of publishing in academic journals, while others provide arguments to support the Spanish book industry. Sceptical views were also voiced on pay to publish as a funding model. Finally, the study finds broad agreement among the researchers surveyed that publicly funded research should be free to read.
Stone ablation rates using innovative pulse modulation technology: Vapor tunnel, virtual basket, and bubble blast. An in vitro experimental study
Authors: Ballesta Martinez Begoña , Peteinaris Angelis , Tsaturyan Arman , Natsos Anastasios , Koukiou Georgia , Vagionis Athanasios , Pagonis Konstantinos , Obaidat Mohammed , Liourdi Despoina , Vrettos Theofanis , Liatsikos Evangelos , Kallidonis Panagiotis
Published: November 2021

Introduction and Objectives

Virtual BasketTM, Bubble BlastTM, and Vapor TunnelTM are three laser pulse modulation technologies that modify the holmium: yttrium–aluminum–garnet (Ho:YAG) laser pulse transmission through the creation of bubbles emerging from the fiber tip with different effects on the target stone. The primary outcome of the current study was to test the stone ablation rates for the different pulse modulation modes, Virtual Basket, Bubble Blast, and Vapor Tunnel, using different power, energy, and frequency settings.

Materials and Methods

Quanta Cyber: Ho 150 WTM, a 365 µm PrecisionTM fiber, and hard and soft phantom BegoStonesTM were used in an in vitro experimental configuration in a saline bath. In the Virtual Basket mode, the combinations of power, energy and frequency were tested; 10 W = 0.5 J × 20 Hz, 10 W = 0.5 J × 20 Hz, 60 W = 1 J × 60 Hz and 60 W = 2 J × 30 Hz. In the Bubble Blast mode, the combinations, 12 W = 1.2J × 10 Hz, 60 W = 1.2J × 50 Hz and 60 W = 2 J × 30 Hz, were tested. Similarly, the combination of 10 W = 0.5 J × 20 Hz was tested with Vapor Tunnel mode. High‐speed camera captures of the bubble formation and regular photographs of the fragmentation pattern were also taken for each mode.

Results

High power lithotripsy was faster and related to higher ablation rates. The Virtual Basket, Bubble Blast, and Vapor Tunnel modalities showed different ablation rates for the same energy and frequency settings. For hard stones, there was an improvement in the ablation rate using 60 W = 2 J × 30 Hz compared with 60 W = 1 J × 60 Hz and 60 W = 1.2 J × 50 Hz. The highest ablation rates were recorded using the Virtual Basket mode with the high‐power settings of 2 J of energy and 30 Hz of frequency.

Conclusions

The Virtual BasketTM pulse‐modulation technology was related to the highest ablation rates for both hard and soft stones, compared to the Bubble BlastTM and the Vapor TunnelTM technologies in high‐power and low‐power lithotripsy respectively. For the same high power settings, higher energy seems to provide higher ablation rates.
On the planar Schrödinger–Poisson system with zero mass potential
Authors: Liao Fangfang , Wang Xiaoping
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we prove that the following planar Schrödinger–Poisson system with zero massadmits a nontrivial radially symmetric solution under weaker assumptions onfby using some new analytical approaches.
Effects of NEFAs during IVM on pig embryos from granulosa cell‐cocultured oocytes
Authors: Shi Meihong , Sirard Marc‐André
Published: November 2021

Circulating levels of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) are elevated in some females, which can impair oocyte maturation and embryo development, and may alter the phenotype of the progeny. However, the effects of NEFAs on human embryo development are not clear due to ethical limitations. Thus, we used pig as the model to investigate the impacts of NEFAs on oocyte and embryo due to their similar reproductive and metabolic physiologies to humans. In this study, porcine cumulus‐oocyte complexes were in vitro maturated under a pathologically high concentration of NEFAs (468 μM palmitic acid, 194 μM stearic acid, and 534 μM oleic acid) with the presence of granulosa cell monolayer, in contrast to control without NEFAs. The mature oocytes were fertilized to produce embryos for further analysis of the transcriptome and DNA methylation patterns. The elevated level of NEFAs decreased the blastocyst rate and delayed the blastocyst development. Ingenuity pathway analysis showed that the most affected gene pathways were related mainly to cell activities, metabolism, and inflammation. These findings indicated that oocytes exposed to the exogenous high level of NEFAs during in vitro maturation resulted in altered gene expression and DNA methylation of early embryos, which have detrimental impacts on blastocyst quality.
Perception of other healthcare professionals about the nurses' role and competencies in veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation care: A qualitative study
Authors: Alshammari Muna , Vellolikalam Chitra , Alfeeli Sadiq
Published: November 2021

Aim

This study aimed to explore the perception of other healthcare professionals, including the doctors, physiotherapists and perfusionists, about the nurses' role and competencies in veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is considered as a challenging clinical activity that requires critical decision and rapid response from nurses, particularly in emergencies. It was observed that nurses are primarily responsible for bedside management of these patients, and teamwork was found helping the nurses to manage this high‐acuity care. However, little is known on the perception of other healthcare professionals about the nurses' roles and competencies, which would contribute to further improvements in quality extracorporeal membrane oxygenation care.

Design

This was a qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

One‐to‐one in‐depth interviews were conducted with nine healthcare professionals working in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation care in an adult intensive care unit of a general hospital in Kuwait.

Results

Participants reported that nurses play critical and multiple roles and responsibilities in the insertion, maintenance, weaning, and retrieval of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, plus providing general nursing care, and performed their roles competently. Heavy workload, less recognition and support, and individual differences in competence were reported as possible barriers to the nurses' performance.

Conclusion

Other healthcare professionals recognize continuous training, having experience, teamwork, and increased staffing as measures that can promote the nurses' role in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Bloom where you are planted: Hemangioma or malignancy?
Authors: Gunn Elizabeth , Barnett Christopher C. , Duong Anh Teressa , Beierle Elizabeth A. , Kelly David R. , Vaid Yoginder N. , Keene Kimberly S. , Soike Michael , Whelan Kimberly
Published: November 2021

Vascular anomalies comprise a spectrum of disorders characterized by the abnormal development or growth of blood and lymphatic vessels. These growths have unique features and diverse behaviors, mandating a multidisciplinary approach in their evaluation, diagnosis, and management. Here we describe the case of a male toddler presenting with an abdominal mass, originally treated as a metastatic retroperitoneal tumor, but subsequently felt to represent a vascular anomaly.
The effect of artificial aging on the impact behavior of SiC nanoparticle‐glass fiber‐reinforced polymer matrix composites
Authors: Kosedag Ertan , Caliskan Umut , Ekici Recep
Published: November 2021

The low‐velocity impact behavior of SiC nanoparticle‐glass fiber‐reinforced polymer matrix composites (PMC) in terms of different weight fraction of nanoparticle, artificial aging time, and impact energy was investigated in this article. In this context, silicon carbide (SiC‐70 nm) ceramic nanoparticle in weight fractions of 0%, 0.1%, 1%, 2%, 3% filled glass fiber‐reinforced PMCs were produced by vacuum infusion technique. The specimens were artificially aged in 0, 750, and 1500 h, 85% relative humidity and 70°C in air conditioning cabinet. The after‐impact damage regions were obtained using ultrasonic scanning technique for three different impact energies of 10, 20, and 30 J. The weight of specimens was measured at certain periods during aging and the weight change was examined. As the weight fraction and aging time were increased, the impact resistance of specimens decreased. At the beginning of aging period, the weight of specimens increased; however, the increase in weight decreased over time. Ultrasonic scanning results showed that the damage geometry changed and increasing discontinuity with increasing weight fraction and artificial aging time.
Influences of reactive compatibilization on the structure and physical properties of blends based on thermotropic liquid crystalline polyester and poly(1,4‐cyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Choi Eun‐Ji , Lee So‐Jeong , Gang Ha‐Eun , Jeong Young Gyu
Published: November 2021

We report the effects of reactive compatibilization on the morphology, microstructure, and physical properties of thermotropic liquid crystalline polyester/poly(1,4‐cyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate) (TLCP/PCT, 75/25 by wt%) blends, which are fabricated via melt‐compounding in the presence of different catalyst types and contents. Among three different catalysts, titanium butoxide (TBT) is found to be most effective in the reactive compatibilization of TLCP/PCT blends, which is confirmed by SEM images. FT‐IR spectroscopic analysis reveals the formation of copolyesters by catalyst‐induced transesterification between TLCP and PCT components during melt‐compounding with 0.5 and 1.0 phr TBT loadings. Nonetheless, X‐ray diffraction analysis confirms that the crystal structures of TLCP/PCT blends are not affected by reactive compatibilization. The melting and crystallization transition temperatures of the PCT component in the compatibilized blends decrease owing to the shortening of crystallizable PCT segments by the transesterification. TGA data show that the residue at 800°C increases for the blends melt‐compounded with higher TBT catalyst loadings. The shear moduli and complex viscosity of compatibilized TLCP/LCP blends at a melt state are found to be even higher than neat TLCP and PCT. Although the elastic storage moduli of compatibilized TLCP/PCT blends are slightly lower than neat TLCP, they are far higher than neat PCT.
Data assimilation for nonlinear systems with a hybrid nonlinear Kalman ensemble transform filter
Authors: Nerger Lars
Published: November 2021

Ensemble Kalman filters are widely used for data assimilation applications in the geosciences. While they are remarkably stable even with nonlinear systems, it is known that they are not optimal in this case. The alternative particle filters are fully nonlinear, but difficult to apply with high‐dimensional models. To combine the strengths of both filter types, a hybrid filter is introduced that combines the local ensemble transform Kalman filter (LETKF) with the nonlinear ensemble transform filter (NETF). Three variants of the hybrid filter are formulated. The hybridization is controlled by a hybrid weight. Different hybrid weights are examined and a new adaptive approach based on the ensemble skewness and kurtosis is introduced. The different hybrid filters and the schemes to compute the hybrid weight are assessed in numerical experiments with the nonlinear Lorenz‐63 and Lorenz‐96 models at different degrees of nonlinearity. A hybrid variant that first applies the NETF followed by the LETKF yields the best results. For the Lorenz‐96 model, error reductions by up to 21.5% compared with the LETKF are obtained for the same ensemble size. Computing the hybrid weight based on skewness and kurtosis combined with the effective sample size yields the lowest estimation errors and the overall highest stability of the hybrid filter. The new hybrid filter applies localization and inflation and is hence also usable with high‐dimensional models and can potentially provide a robust way to account for leading nonlinearity with small ensembles in nonlinear data assimilation applications.