bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crashing from cadaver to computer: Covid‐driven crisis‐mode pedagogy spawns active online substitute for teaching gross anatomy
Authors: Harrell Kelly M. , McGinn Melissa J. , Edwards Cherie D. , Warren Foster Kenneth , Meredith M. Alex
Published: July 2021

In early 2020, the Covid‐19 crisis forced medical institutions worldwide to convert quickly to online platforms for content delivery. Although many components of medical education were adaptable to that format, anatomical dissection laboratory lost substantial content in that conversion, including features of active student participation, three‐dimensional spatial relationships of structures, and the perception of texture, variation, and scale. The present study aimed to develop and assess online anatomy laboratory sessions that sought to preserve benefits of the dissection experience for first‐year medical students. The online teaching package was based on a novel form of active videography that emulates eye movement patterns that occur during processes of visual identification, scene analysis, and learning. Using this video‐image library of dissected materials, content was presented through asynchronous narrated laboratory demonstrations and synchronous/active video conference sessions and included a novel, video‐based assessment tool. Data were obtained using summative assessments and a final course evaluation. Test scores for the online practical examination were significantly improved over those for previous in‐person dissection‐based examinations, as evidenced by several measures of performance (Mean: 2015–2019: 82.5%; 2020: 94.9%; P = 0.003). Concurrently, didactic test scores were slightly, but not significantly, improved (Mean: 2015–2019: 88.0%; 2020: 89.9%). Student evaluations of online sessions and overall course were highly positive. Results indicated that this innovative online teaching package can provide an effective alternative when in‐person dissection laboratory is unavailable. Although this approach consumed considerable faculty time for video editing, further development will include video conference breakout rooms to emulate dissection small‐group teamwork.
Boundary control for PDE flexible manipulators: Accommodation to both actuator faults and sensor faults
Authors: Cao Fangfei , Liu Jinkun
Published: July 2021

This paper focuses on the controller design and vibration elimination for a flexible single‐link manipulator. The flexible single‐link manipulator considered in this paper is described by partial differential equations (PDEs). Considering actuator faults and sensor faults simultaneously, a novel boundary controller is designed for the flexible manipulator system. The actuator faults are special since the control directions are unknown. In the proposed controller, the Nussbaum‐type function is used, and an adaptive law is applied. The system performance analysis is given with the aid of Lyapunov approach, and the closed‐loop PDE system is guaranteed to have semi‐global uniform ultimate boundedness (SGUUB). In simulation, several cases are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed controller, under actuator faults and sensor faults.
Synthesis, characterization, and self‐assembly of fluorescent fluorine‐containing liquid crystals
Authors: Radwan Ahmed S. , Makhlouf Mohamed M.
Published: July 2021

SNAr has been used to synthesize various functionalized derivatives of pentafluorobenzenes which are highly specific at the para position; and consequently are ideal for building calamitic (rod‐like) liquid crystalline molecular systems. Here, we display the effectiveness of SNAr chemistry as a convenient method toward the synthesis of fluorescent liquid crystalline perfluorinated comprising ethers and thioethers in excellent yields and high purity. In the current work, we describe the synthesis, self‐assembly, and mesogenic properties of new perfluorinated para‐terphenyls bearing various para‐substituted alkoxy and thioalkoxy chains. The terphenyl core was prepared using Cu(I) (or Cu(I)/phenanthroline)‐catalyzed decarboxylative carbon–carbon (or carbon–oxygen [sulfur]) cross‐coupling from the analogous aromatic iodide and fluorobenzoate potassium salt. The molecular structures of the prepared perfluorinated terphenyls were demonstrated with 1H, 13C, and 19F NMR, as well as FT‐IR and X‐ray crystallography. The liquid crystalline properties and mesogenic phases were characterized with differential scanning calorimetry and high‐resolution polarized optical microscope. Both UV–visible absorbance and emission spectra demonstrated solvatochromism. Supramolecular self‐assembly of the generated perfluorinated para‐terphenyls was monitored by van der Waals and π–π stacking interaction forces. The creation of nanofibrous architectures was monitored by scanning electron microscopy.
Prevalence, trends, and outcomes of atrial fibrillation in hospitalized patients with metastatic cancer: findings from a national sample
Authors: Han Hedong , Chen Longpei , Lin Zhen , Wei Xin , Guo Wei , Yu Yamei , Wu Cheng , Cao Yang , He Jia
Published: July 2021

Background

Epidemiological evidence regarding the link between cancer and atrial fibrillation (AF) are limited and outcomes of metastatic cancer comorbid with AF need to be elucidated.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, temporal trends, and outcomes of AF in hospitalized metastatic cancer patients.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was used to identify adult patients with metastatic tumors from 2003 to 2014. We analyzed the trends in AF prevalence, in‐hospital mortality, total cost, length of stay (LOS), and comorbidities pertaining to metastatic cancer. Multivariable‐adjusted models were used to evaluate the association of AF with clinical factors, in‐hospital mortality, total cost, and LOS.

Results

Among 2,478,598 patients with metastatic cancer, 8.74% (216,737) were diagnosed with AF. The proportion of comorbid AF increased from 8.28% in 2003 to 10.06% in 2014 (p < 0.0001). Older age, white race, male, Medicare, higher income, larger hospital bed size, and urban teaching hospital were associated with higher AF occurrence. Among primary tumor sites, lung cancer experienced the highest odds of AF compared to other cancers. Patients with metastasis to lymph node and respiratory organ had higher odds of AF. In metastatic cancer, AF was associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio: 1.48; 95% confidence interval: 1.43–1.54), 18% longer LOS, and 19% higher cost.

Conclusions

AF prevalence in metastatic cancer continues to increase from 2003 to 2014. AF is linked to poorer prognosis and higher healthcare resource utilization. As the population ages, optimal preventive and treatment management strategies are needed for metastatic cancer comorbid with AF.
Women who remain in relationships with registered sexual offenders: Analysis of forum discussion
Authors: Jones Emma , Giles David C.
Published: July 2021

Registered sexual offenders (RSOs) are inevitably on the receiving end of much negative evaluation within society. By association, individuals in close relationships with RSOs may experience what Goffman (1963) [Stigma: Notes on the management of spoiled identity. Simon & Schuster Ltd.] termed ‘courtesy stigma’, through which they are also negatively evaluated. The present study explores this phenomenon in the contemporary context of online discussion. Drawing on recent methodological developments in the microanalysis of online data, three specific threads from online parenting forums are examined, each opening with a specific account of their dilemma by women in intimate relationships with RSOs. Analysis of the sequential interaction within each thread demonstrates the way that stigma is performed by online parenting communities and how individuals manage that stigma as the interaction unfolds. We conclude that partners of RSOs, unlike family members, can mitigate courtesy stigma by ending the relationship, but otherwise risk being ostracised by community members.
Long term outcomes of ultrathin versus standard thickness second‐generation drug eluting stents: Meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Hussain Yasin , Gaston Samantha , Kluger Jonathan , Shah Tayyab , Yang Yiping , Tirziu Daniela , Lansky Alexandra
Published: July 2021

Objective

Identify the effect of ultrathin drug eluting stents on long term outcomes in coronary artery disease.

Background

Although second‐generation drug eluting stents (DES) are superior to first‐generation DES, persistence of adverse outcomes has led to continued refinement in design. Ultrathin second‐generation DES have been shown to improve outcomes at 1‐year follow‐up. Beyond 1‐year their effect remains unknown.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Database were searched for randomized controlled trials that compared ultrathin (defined as <70 um) to standard thickness second‐generation DES. Studies were chosen according to the PROSPERO protocol (CRD42020185374). Data from randomized controlled trials were pooled using random‐effects model (Mantel–Haenszel). The primary outcome was target lesion failure (TLF) at 2 years, a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and ischemia‐driven target vessel revascularization. Secondary outcomes included TLF at 3 and 5 years, the components of TLF and definite or probable stent thrombosis. Differences in outcomes between groups were presented in Forest plots as risk ratios (RR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each trial.

Results

We identified 18 publications from 10 trials with14,649 patients. At 2‐years there was a significant 12% reduction in TLF (RR, 0.88; 95% CI 0.78–0.99; p < 0.05) associated with the use of ultrathin DES. At 3‐years, there was a significant 19% reduction in TLF with ultrathin DES (RR, 0.79; 95% CI 0.64–0.98; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, ultrathin DES improve long term clinical outcomes.
Diagnosing indirect relationships in multivariate calibration models
Authors: Eskildsen Carl Emil , Engelsen Søren B. , Dankel Katinka R. , Solberg Lars Erik , Næs Tormod
Published: July 2021

Problems concerning covariance among independent variables are well understood and dealt with by inverse regression methods like partial least squares regression. However, covariance between dependent variables has only received minor attention. Biological samples are often complex mixtures of multiple covarying compounds. During multivariate calibration, analyte predictions may be mediated through relationships with interfering compounds, which implies that the calibration model is not providing a direct link between the multivariate measurements and the analyte of interest. This compromises robustness and validity of the calibration model—important aspects when applying the model to future samples and data sets. This study discusses issues of calibration modeling when strong covariance structures exist among the analyte of interest and interfering compounds.

We propose a projection‐based method to diagnose whether indirect covariance structures dominate the calibration model. The proposed method is tested on a two‐constituent Beer's law system consisting of 20 aqueous samples with covarying amounts of fructose (analyte of interest) and riboflavin (interfering compound). Transmission measurements are obtained on all samples in the visual and near‐infrared wavelength ranges. Riboflavin has strong absorption in the visual region, whereas fructose exclusively absorbs in the near‐infrared region. Hence, predictions of fructose concentrations, obtained from the visual wavelength range only, are fully mediated through riboflavin, whereas fructose predictions obtained from the near‐infrared wavelength range may be obtained independent of riboflavin.
Local Light‐Controlled Generation of Calcium Carbonate and Barium Carbonate Biomorphs via Photochemical Stimulation
Authors: Menichetti Arianna , Mavridi‐Printezi Alexandra , Falini Giuseppe , Besirske Patricia , García‐Ruiz Juan Manuel , Cölfen Helmut , Montalti Marco
Published: July 2021

Photochemical activation is proposed as a general method for controlling the crystallization of sparingly soluble carbonates in space and time. The photogeneration of carbonate in an alkaline environment is achieved upon photo‐decarboxylation of an organic precursor by using a conventional 365 nm UV LED. Local irradiation was conducted focusing the LED light on a 300 μm radius spot on a closed glass crystallization cell. The precursor solution was optimized to avoid the precipitation of the photoreaction organic byproducts and prevent photo‐induced pH changes to achieve the formation of calcium carbonate only in the corresponding irradiated area. The crystallization was monitored in real‐time by time‐lapse imaging. The method is also shown to work in gels. Similarly, it was also shown to photo‐activate locally the formation of barium carbonate biomorphs. In the last case, the morphology of these biomimetic structures was tuned by changing the irradiation intensity.
The safety of morphine in patients with acute heart failure: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Lai Wei , Liu Xiao , Shen Yang , Hong Kui
Published: July 2021

While morphine has long been widely used in treating acute heart failure (AHF) due to its vasodilatory properties and anticipated anxiolysis, it remains unclear whether the application of morphine to those patients is reasonable. We aim to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the safety of morphine in patients with AHF. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase electronic databases from inception through March 2020. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the outcomes. Seven studies with 172, 226 patients were included. The results showed that morphine usage was not associated with increased in‐hospital mortality (OR: 1.94; 95% CI 0.93 to 4.03; p = 0.08). However, the use of morphine significantly increased the risk of invasive ventilation (OR: 2.72; 95% CI 1.09 to 6.80; p = 0.03). Furthermore, the subgroup analysis indicated that the application of morphine was not associated with increased 7‐day all‐cause mortality in patients with AHF (OR: 1.69; 95% CI 0.80 to 3.22; p = 0.11) but significantly increased the risk of 30‐day all‐cause mortality (OR: 1.59; 95% CI 1.16 to 2.17; p = 0.004). Based on current evidence, our results suggested that although morphine therapy did not significantly increase the risk of short‐term death (in the hospital or within 7 days) in patients with AHF, the risk of long‐term death and invasive ventilation were significantly increased. This result needs to be further confirmed by an ongoing randomized control trial.
METTL3 Inhibitors for Epitranscriptomic Modulation of Cellular Processes
Authors: Moroz‐Omori Elena V. , Huang Danzhi , Kumar Bedi Rajiv , Cheriyamkunnel Sherry J. , Bochenkova Elena , Dolbois Aymeric , Rzeczkowski Maciej D. , Li Yaozong , Wiedmer Lars , Caflisch Amedeo
Published: July 2021

The methylase METTL3 is the writer enzyme of the N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA. Using a structure‐based drug discovery approach, we identified a METTL3 inhibitor with potency in a biochemical assay of 280 nM, while its enantiomer is 100 times less active. We observed a dose‐dependent reduction in the m6A methylation level of mRNA in several cell lines treated with the inhibitor already after 16 h of treatment, which lasted for at least 6 days. Importantly, the prolonged incubation (up to 6 days) with the METTL3 inhibitor did not alter levels of other RNA modifications (i. e., m1A, m6Am, m7G), suggesting selectivity of the developed compound towards other RNA methyltransferases.
Fluorescent Amino Acid Initiated de novo Cyclic Peptides for the Label‐Free Assessment of Cell Permeability**
Authors: Wu Yuteng , Bertran M. Teresa , Rowley James , Calder Ewen D. D. , Joshi Dhira , Walport Louise J.
Published: July 2021

The major obstacle in applying peptides to intracellular targets is their low inherent cell permeability. Standard approaches to attach a fluorophore (e. g. FITC, TAMRA) can change the physicochemical properties of the parent peptide and influence their ability to penetrate and localize in cells. We report a label‐free strategy for evaluating the cell permeability of cyclic peptide leads. Fluorescent tryptophan analogues 4‐cyanotryptophan (4CNW) and β‐(1‐azulenyl)‐L‐alanine (AzAla) were incorporated into in vitro translated macrocyclic peptides by initiator reprogramming. We then demonstrate these efficient blue fluorescent emitters are good tools for monitoring peptide penetration into cells.
Transarterial chemoembolization plus lenvatinib versus transarterial chemoembolization plus sorafenib as first‐line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus: A prospective randomized study
Authors: Ding Xiaoyan , Sun Wei , Li Wei , Shen Yanjun , Guo Xiaodi , Teng Ying , Liu Xiaomin , Zheng Linlin , Li Wendong , Chen Jinglong
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus lenvatinib in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) have not been evaluated.

METHODS

In this open‐label, single‐center, randomized trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04127396), participants with previously untreated HCC and type I‐IV PVTT were randomized 1:1 to receive TACE plus lenvatinib (arm L; orally once daily, 12 mg for body weight ≥60 kg or 8 mg for body weight <60 kg) or TACE plus sorafenib (arm S; 400 mg orally twice daily in 28‐day cycles). The primary end point was time‐to‐progression (TTP; time from randomization to disease progression) and secondary end points included objective response rate and toxicity. Prognostic factors were evaluated using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

Between December 30, 2018 and May 31, 2020, 64 patients were randomized (arm L, n = 32; arm S, n = 32); most patients had type I/II PVTT (71.9%), and the median target tumor diameter was 9.8 cm (range, 3.8‐21.8). After a median follow‐up of 16.1 months, patients in arm L had a higher median TTP (4.7 vs 3.1 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.55; 95% CI, 0.32‐0.95; P = .029) and objective response rate (53.1% vs 25.0%, P = .039) versus arm S. Multivariable analysis showed that TACE plus lenvatinib was significantly associated with higher TTP versus TACE plus sorafenib (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.28‐0.90; P = .021). Comparable safety profiles were observed in arms L and S.

CONCLUSIONS

TACE plus lenvatinib was safe, well tolerated, and had favorable efficacy versus TACE plus sorafenib in patients with advanced HCC with PVTT and large tumor burden.

LAY SUMMARY

Hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus has a poor prognosis.

In addition, most phase 3 trials of drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma exclude patients with major portal vein invasion, and treatment options for these patients are limited.

Transarterial chemoembolization has shown promising efficacy in these patients, especially in combination with systemic treatment or radiotherapy. However, transarterial chemoembolization plus lenvatinib has not been investigated in this setting.

This open‐label, single‐center, randomized trial showed that transarterial chemoembolization plus lenvatinib is safe, well tolerated, and has favorable efficacy versus transarterial chemoembolization plus sorafenib for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus.
Cost evaluation of an exercise oncology intervention: The exercise in all chemotherapy trial
Authors: Potiaumpai Melanie , Doerksen Shawna E. , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Wu Hongke , Wang Li , Lintz Rachel , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: July 2021

Background

There is strong evidence supporting the efficacy of exercise oncology programs to improve physical and psychosocial outcomes during active treatment. However, there is a paucity of evidence on the effect of exercise on healthcare utilization and cost analyzes of exercise oncology programs.

Aims

Our objective was to assess the effects of a pragmatic exercise oncology program (ENACT) during active chemotherapy treatment on healthcare utilization and associated costs.

Methods

We conducted post‐hoc analyzes on 160 ENACT participants and 75 comparison participants matched on cancer site, stage, age range, and gender. We obtained complete healthcare utilization histories for each patient (specific to emergency department [ED] visits and hospital admissions) coinciding with their participation in ENACT. A sub‐analysis was conducted for advanced stage breast, gastrointestinal, and pancreatic cancer patients.

Results

Healthcare costs for patients who participated in the ENACT exercise oncology intervention were numerically lower than healthcare costs for the comparison group, even after accounting for the cost of the intervention. However, the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that an exercise oncology program during active chemotherapy treatment are at least cost neutral for all cancer patients, including advanced stage cancers. Additional research is warranted to evaluate the potential for exercise oncology programs to reduce healthcare utilization, particularly in advanced cancer patients.
Stakeholder engagement, Csr development and Sdgs compliance: A systematic review from 2015 to 2021
Authors: López‐Concepción Arelys , Gil‐Lacruz Ana I. , Saz‐Gil Isabel
Published: July 2021

The conceptualization of the stakeholders of the companies for the fulfillment of the objectives of sustainable development is controversial, even more so, if it is approached from the perspective of corporate social responsibility and the psychology of the employees and their behavior. The existing literature and knowledge on the relationship among the stakeholder approach, corporate social responsibility and the achievement of the SDGs remain unstructured and fragmented. The objective of the manuscript is to identify and systematize scientific research on the stakeholder approach with respect to corporate social responsibility, in order to achieve business sustainability, in response to sustainable development goals and from the perspective of the well‐being of workers. Our main contribution to the literature review is to focus on all these issues together, and not in isolation. A systematic literature search is conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyzes (PRISMA). The approaches, issues and methodologies that predominate in the academic field in the last 5 years (2015–2021) were analyzed. Based on this review, we define a research agenda that synthesizes key trends and promising lines of research for further advancement of theoretical and empirical knowledge on the relationship among stakeholders, corporate social responsibility, and human resource management.
Understanding the Microstructure Formation of Polymer Films by Spontaneous Solution Spreading Coating with a High‐Throughput Engineering Platform
Authors: Wang Rong , Lüer Larry , Langner Stefan , Heumueller Thomas , Forberich Karen , Zhang Heyi , Hauch Jens , Li Ning , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: July 2021

An important step of the great achievement of organic solar cells in power conversion efficiency is the development of low‐band gap polymer donors, PBDB−T derivatives, which present interesting aggregation effects dominating the device performance. The aggregation of polymers can be manipulated by a series of variables from a materials design and processing conditions perspective; however, optimization of film quality is a time‐ and energy‐consuming work. Here, we introduce a robot‐based high‐throughput platform (HTP) that is offering automated film preparation and optical spectroscopy thin‐film characterization in combination with an analysis algorithm. PM6 films are prepared by the so‐called spontaneous film spreading (SFS) process, where a polymer solution is coated on a water surface. Automated acquisition of UV/Vis and photoluminescence (PL) spectra and automated extraction of morphological features is coupled to Gaussian Process Regression to exploit available experimental evidence for morphology optimization but also for hypothesis formulation and testing with respect to the underlying physical principles. The integrated spectral modeling workflow yields quantitative microstructure information by distinguishing amorphous from ordered phases and assesses the extension of amorphous versus the ordered domains. This research provides an easy to use methodology to analyze the exciton coherence length in conjugated semiconductors and will allow to optimize exciton splitting in thin film organic semiconductor layers as a function of processing.
Catalytic Reductive Alcohol Etherifications with Carbonyl‐Based Compounds or CO2 and Related Transformations for the Synthesis of Ether Derivatives
Authors: Lluna‐Galán Carles , Izquierdo‐Aranda Luis , Adam Rosa , Cabrero‐Antonino Jose R.
Published: July 2021

Ether derivatives have myriad applications in several areas of chemical industry and academia. Hence, the development of more effective and sustainable protocols for their production is highly desired. Among the different methodologies reported for ether synthesis, catalytic reductive alcohol etherifications with carbonyl‐based moieties (aldehydes/ketones and carboxylic acid derivatives) have emerged in the last years as a potential tool. These processes constitute appealing routes for the selective production of both symmetrical and asymmetrical ethers (including O‐heterocycles) with an increased molecular complexity. Likewise, ester‐to‐ether catalytic reductions and hydrogenative alcohol etherifications with CO2 to dialkoxymethanes and other acetals, albeit in less extent, have undergone important advances, too. In this Review, an update of the recent progresses in the area of catalytic reductive alcohol etherifications using carbonyl‐based compounds and CO2 have been described with a special focus on organic synthetic applications and catalyst design. Complementarily, recent progress made in catalytic acetal/ketal‐to‐ether or ester‐to‐ether reductions and other related transformations have been also summarized.
Vulnerable road user safety: A systematic review and mesh‐networking based vehicle ad hoc system using hybrid of neuro‐fuzzy and genetic algorithms
Authors: Altaf Insha , Kaul Ajay
Published: July 2021

Intelligent Transport System (ITS) involves a number of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) interventions for efficient road safety management. Over the last few decades, there has been a significant increase in the safety of Vulnerable Road Users (VRU's). This study aims to identify the most frequent, regularly occurring causes of road accidents and outline actions that can be used as a baseline for improving road traffic safety. The main contributions in this paper include the following: a graphical investigation for finding out the overall rate of road accidents (injuries and deaths) in India. Based on graphical analysis, major loopholes responsible for road accidents in India are summed up. This paper discusses various issues faced by already available pedestrian and vehicular safety techniques. After analysis of the available techniques and their related case studies in a systematic way, it is observed that they are not able to overcome the loopholes (Collision Occurrence, Traffic Congestion, Pedestrian Crossing alert, Red Light violation, and Non‐Propagation of Distress Signal) present in the current “Road Transport Management (RTM) System” of India. Finally, after deep analysis of already available techniques, a futuristic approach “Mesh‐Networking based Vehicle Ad‐Hoc System (MN‐VAS) using hybrid of Neuro‐Fuzzy and Genetic Algorithm based Load Balancing on Node” is proposed for the safety of VRU's. This hybrid approach has been discussed with domain experts for practical input, and we concluded that this might be a good option for better RTM System in India.
Comparative genetics of scyphozoan species reveals the geological history and contemporary processes of the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Mizrahi Gur A. , Shemesh Eli , Mizrachi Avia , Tchernov Dan
Published: July 2021

Jellyfish are useful genetic indicators for aquatic ecosystems as they have limited mobility and are highly exposed to the water column. By using comparative genomics and the molecular clock (timetree) ofRhizostoma pulmo, we revealed a divergence point between the East and West Mediterranean Sea (MS) populations that occurred 4.59 million years ago (mya). It is suggested that the two distinct ecological environments we know today were formed at this time. We propose that before this divergence, the highly mixed Atlantic and Mediterranean waters led to the wide dispersal of different species includingR. pulmo. At 4.59 mya, the Western and Eastern MS were formed, indicating the possibility of a dramatic environmental event. For the first time, we find that for the jellyfish we examined, the division of the MS in east and west is not at the Straits of Sicily as generally thought, but significantly to the east. Using genomics of theAureliaspecies, we examined contemporary anthropogenic impacts with a focus on migration of scyphozoa across the Suez Canal (Lessepsian migration).Aureliasp. is among the few scyphozoa we find in both the MS and the Red Sea, but our DNA analysis revealed that the Red SeaAureliasp. did not migrate or mix with MS species.Phyllorhiza punctataresults showed that this species was only recently introduced to the MS as a result of anthropogenic transportation activity, such as ballast water discharge, and revealed a migration vector from Australia to the MS. Our findings demonstrate that jellyfish genomes can be used as a phylogeographic molecular tool to trace past events across large temporal scales and reveal invasive species introduction due to human activity.
Climatic displacement exacerbates the negative impact of drought on plant performance and associated arthropod abundance
Authors: Croy Jordan R. , Pratt Jessica D. , Sheng Daniel , Mooney Kailen A.
Published: July 2021

Climate change is acting on species and modifying communities and ecosystems through changes not only with respect to mean abiotic conditions, but also through increases in the frequency and severity of extreme events. Changes in mean aridity associated with climate change can generate ecotype by environment mismatch (i.e., climatic displacement). At the same time, variability around these shifting means is predicted to increase, resulting in more extreme droughts. We characterized the effects of two axes of climate change, climatic displacement and drought, on the shrub Artemisia californica and its arthropods. We established common gardens of plants sourced along an aridity gradient (3.5‐fold variation in mean annual precipitation) in an arid region of the species distribution, thus generating a gradient of climatic displacement (sustained increase in aridity) as predicted with climate change. We surveyed plants and arthropods over eight years where precipitation varied sixfold, including both extreme drought and relatively mesic conditions. These two axes of climate change interacted to influence plant performance, such that climatically displaced populations grew slowly regardless of drought and suffered substantial mortality during drought years. Conversely, local populations grew quickly, increased growth during wet years, and had low mortality regardless of drought. Effects on plant annual arthropod yield were negative and additive, with drought effects exceeding that of climatic displacement by 24%. However, for plant lifetime arthropod yield, incorporating effects on both plant growth and survival, climatic displacement exacerbated the negative effects of drought. Collectively these results demonstrate how climatic displacement (through increasing aridity stress) strengthens the negative effects of drought on plants and, indirectly, on arthropods, suggesting the possibility of climate‐mediated trophic collapse.
Synthesis and Properties of BODIPY Appended Tetraphenylethylene Scaffolds as Photoactive Arrays
Authors: Sample Harry C. , Emandi Ganapathi , Twamley Brendan , Grover Nitika , Khurana Bhavya , Sol Vincent , Senge Mathias O.
Published: July 2021

Tetraphenylethylene (TPE) and its derivatives exhibit excellent aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) properties. The TPE unit is easily accessible, and many functional groups can be introduced in a facile manner to yield effective luminescent materials in both solution and the solid‐state. It is because of this, several TPE‐based compounds have been developed and applied in many areas, such as OLEDs and chemical sensors. Boron dipyrromethenes (BODIPYs) are a class of pyrrolic fluorophore of great interest with myriad application in both material science and biomedical applications. Through the combination of Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions and traditional dipyrromethene chemistry, we present the syntheses of novel tetra‐BODIPY‐appended TPE derivatives with different distances between the TPE and BODIPY cores. The TPE‐BODIPY arrays 6 and 9 show vastly differing AIE properties in THF/H2O systems, with 9 exhibiting dual‐AIE, along with both conjugates being found to produce singlet oxygen (1O2). We presume the synthesized BODIPY‐appended TPE scaffolds to be utilized for potential applications in the fields of light‐emitting systems and theranostics.
Ultra‐sensitive Detecting OPs‐Isocarbophos Using Photoinduced Regeneration of Aptamer‐based Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Yu Mengdi , Chang Qing , Zhang Liangliang , Huang Zenghui , Song Chunxia , Chen Ying , Wu Xiangwei , Lu Ying
Published: July 2021

Residues related to organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) may be hazardous to food and environmental safety. Isocarbophos (ICP) is one of the most highly toxic OPs that had been banned in China and strictly limited in many other countries for use on vegetables and fruits. However, illegal use often occurs in agricultural production due to its good control effect. Developing a sensitive method is an urgent need to determine trace ICP. Herein, an electrochemical aptasensor was fabricated for ICP detection, which combines the advantages of the high affinity of aptamer with photo‐triggered azobenzene to realize the sensor's regeneration. In this work, the aptamer was labeled with ferrocene group (Fc) at the 3′‐end and modified on the surface of the electrode as a recognition element for specific detection of ICP. Two azobenzene groups were inserted at the 5′‐end of the aptamer. Upon ultraviolet light irradiation, the configuration of azobenzene altered from trans‐to‐cis, and two units of ICP dissociated with aptamer by the unfolding of its hairpin structure to achieve the sensor's regeneration. Based on this strategy, the current response recorded of the aptasensor increases with the increasing of ICP concentration. The differential pulse voltammogram (DPV) signals are linear with the logarithm of ICP concentration in a range from 10 pM to 10 μM. The limit of detection is 3 pM (S/N=3). After 6 times of regeneration, the signal intensity for ICP could keep over 95 % to the first time of detection. The aptasensor was also successfully applied to the ICP analysis in tomato to validate stability and applicability, with an average recovery rate of 76.2 %–119.3 % and a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 1.8 %–10.7 %. To the best of our knowledge, this study was the first time using a simple incubation procedure, to realize sensitive and reversible detection of ICP, meanwhile which expected to be applied to the ICP's toxicological research.
A comprehensive review of carbon‐based and metal‐based electrocatalysts in the vanadium redox flow battery
Authors: Taş Mert , Elden Gülsah
Published: July 2021

The vanadium redox flow battery mainly consists of an electrode, membrane, and electrolyte. Positive and negative electrodes have great importance to the battery's performance. Electrodes were treated thermally, acid and plasma and modified with carbon‐based and metal‐based electrocatalysts to increase their electrochemical activity, active area, stability, and functional groups. In this study, comprehensive research was conducted on carbon‐based and metal‐based electrocatalysts. Furthermore, modification and treatment methods, charge‐discharge potential, maximum capacity, capacity fading, and energy efficiency of the electrode were examined at the same current density. The highest energy efficiency of the carbon‐based electrocatalyst was obtained for graphite felt doped with carbon nanoparticles. The energy efficiency of bare graphite felt was 67.4%, the efficiency increased up to 84.8% with the carbon nanoparticle electrocatalyst. Ohmic loss was reduced, and operating voltage window was enlarged. For metal electrocatalysts, the highest energy efficiency was obtained by titanium nitride modification. The energy efficiency increased from 68% to 89% in comparison to the bare electrode. Electrode kinetics and reversibility were improved by electrocatalyst doping, and the active area of the electrode was increased.
Patterns in Serum Toxicokinetics in Peromyscus Exposed to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Authors: Narizzano Allison M. , Bohannon Meredith E. , East Andrew G. , McDonough Carrie , Choyke Sarah , Higgins Christopher P. , Quinn Jr Michael J.
Published: July 2021

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are compounds manufactured for use in paints, cleaning agents, fire suppressants, nonstick cookware, food containers, and water-resistant products. Concerns about PFAS stem from their ubiquitous presence in the environment, persistence, and variable/uncertain bioaccumulation and toxicity. In the present study, 5 perfluoroalkyl acids and one polyfluoroalkyl substance were administered to white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) to elucidate the kinetics of each chemical over 28 d of exposure. Perfluorooctanoate, perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and perfluorobutane sulfonate were administered to male and female mice via drinking water. Perfluorooctane sulfonate, perfluorononanoate, 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate, and PFHxS were administered to male and female mice via oral gavage. Blood samples collected after 14 or 21 and 28 d of exposure were analyzed for individual PFAS concentrations via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In general, a plateau in serum concentration in this toxicity test–relevant timeline depended on interactions between 1) the type of PFAS (i.e., perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids [PFSAs] vs perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids [PFCAs] vs polyfluorinated), 2) continuous versus bolus dosing, and 3) to a lesser extent, sex. Specifically, PFCAs were detected at higher concentration in females than males, whereas PFSAs were generally detected at similar levels across sex. An exception occurred when PFHxS yielded higher serum levels in males than females through bolus, but not continuous, dosing. Type of PFAS had the largest impact on serum concentrations, whereas sex had the lowest. As such, future work on the toxicokinetics of PFAS in common ecological receptors would be valuable to further explore these patterns. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2886–2898. © 2021 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
A pressure‐based numerical scheme for compressible–incompressible two‐phase flows
Authors: Wei Zhilong , Jiang Qin , Nie Sihang
Published: July 2021

This article presents a numerical scheme for two‐phase flows consisting of compressible gas and incompressible liquid. Assuming that the gas density is determined by pressure only and that the liquid density is constant, we develop a new set of governing equations for compressible–incompressible two‐phase flows, which can be seen as a simplification of the previous unified governing equations. The volume fraction of gas, velocity, and pressure are the primary variables. Given the liquid's usual leading role in the flow motion, a pressure‐based method is employed to solve the equations. A fifth‐order accurate weighted essentially nonoscillatory (WENO) scheme is applied to discretize the advection terms, and the tangent of hyperbola for interface capturing (THINC) scheme is utilized to capture the interface. The numerical scheme proposed is validated against the generalized Bagnold model and the free drop of a water patch in a closed tank. The results show that the scheme can tackle low Mach number compressible–incompressible two‐phase flows. For the one‐dimensional Bagnold model, the present numerical model achieves first‐order convergence and gives better results than that based on the previous unified governing equations with the same numerical methods. In the simulation of the free drop of a water patch in a closed tank, a similar pressure curve with other reported work is given.
The Role of Natural Gas Utilities and Pipeline Operators in a Decarbonized Economy
Authors: Pretyman David , Greaves Tyler , Millerick Alison
Published: July 2021

The natural gas industry has a track record of sharing lessons learned from unfortunate events, leading to initiatives and investments to improve resiliency and reliability. The Columbia Gas of Massachusetts over‐pressurization incident in 2018, led to industry‐wide improvements in natural gas pipeline safety. The Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility incident resulted in the implementation of American Petroleum Institute (API) storage field standards as regulations. More recently, the industry is still coming to grips with fallout from the February 2021 winter storm events in Texas, when natural gas was unavailable to fuel electricity generation and for residential and commercial/industrial use. Lastly, the May 2021 Colonial Pipeline cyber security breach led to gasoline shortages in downstream markets and will likely lead to new and more comprehensive standards and regulations for pipeline safety and compliance to guard against future cyber‐attacks. While pipeline failures are rare, when they do occur, they are high‐impact events with potentially devastating and costly consequences. According to the Pipeline Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration (PHMSA) trend data, pipeline incidents resulted in 55 fatalities, 272 injuries, and over $3.3 billion in total costs between 2016–2020.
The Transportation of Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen—Where They Fit Into a Low‐Carbon Energy Policy
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: July 2021

This month's column is largely a discussion of issues that need to be addressed for those participants involved in US energy production to make a low‐ or carbon‐free future work. Government at the national and state levels can set aggressive goals and provide funding for research, subsidies for investment and purchases, etc. However it is not the government that has to accomplish the final objectives of energy reliability and climate‐change leadership. It is an industry composed of legacy companies and new companies, big (very big) companies, and small companies, working in a mostly competitive environment to remain relevant if they're useful and to find comprehensive solutions in how to transition from a primarily carbon‐based power economy to an economy that produces the same amount of energy safely, reliably, and flexibly to do the same gigantic job as today, but without carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
Dietary Risks for Liver Mortality in NAFLD: Global Burden of Disease Data
Authors: Paik James M. , Mir Seema , Alqahtani Saleh A. , Younossi Youssef , Ong Janus P. , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: July 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common but complex chronic liver disease, driven by environmental and genetic factors. We assessed metabolic and dietary risk factor associations with NAFLD liver mortality using the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 data. NAFLD liver deaths were calculated (per 100,000) as age‐standardized rates (ASRs) from 195 countries and territories (21 GBD regions; 7 GBD superregions). Dietary risks included low intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts/seeds, milk, fiber, calcium, seafood omega‐3 fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and high intake of red meat, processed meat, sugar‐sweetened beverages, trans fatty acids, and sodium. Metabolic risks included high low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure (BP), fasting glucose (FG), body mass index (BMI), as well as low bone mineral density and impaired kidney function (IKF). Socio‐demographic index (SDI)–adjusted partial Spearman correlation coefficients and multivariable generalized linear regression models/bidirectional stepwise selection (significance level for entry, 0.2; for stay, 0.05) determined the associations. The ASR for NAFLD liver deaths was 2.3 per 100,000 (2017) and correlated with dietary risk factors (0.131, −0.010‐0.267) and metabolic risk factors (SDI‐adjusted = 0.225, 95% CI 0.086‐0.354). High intake of sugar‐sweetened beverages and red meat (0.358, 0.229‐0.475; 0.162, 0.022‐0.296), and low intake of nuts/seed and milk (0.154, 0.014‐0.289; 0.145, 0.004‐0.280) was significant for NAFLD liver deaths. Other risk factors for liver death included IKF (0.402, 0.276‐0.514), increased BMI (0.353, 0.223‐0.407), FG (0.248, 0.111‐0.376), and BP (0.163, 0.022‐0.297). High intake of trans fatty acids (2.84% increase [1.65%‐4.03%]) was the largest associated risk of NAFLD liver deaths. In addition to metabolic risks, dietary risks independently drive the global burden of NAFLD‐related liver mortality. Conclusion: These data provide additional support for policies to improve dietary environment for NAFLD burden reduction.
Study on forcing schemes in the thermal lattice Boltzmann method for simulation of natural convection flow problems
Authors: Ezzatneshan Eslam , Salehi Ashkan , Vaseghnia Hamed
Published: July 2021

The present study addresses the effect of various schemes for applying an external force term on the accuracy and performance of the thermal lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) for simulation of free convection problems. Herein, the forcing schemes of Luo, shifted velocity method, Guo, and exact difference method are applied by considering three velocity discrete models of D2Q4, D2Q5, and D2Q9. The accuracy and performance of these schemes are evaluated with the simulation of three natural convection problems, namely, free convection in a closed cavity, in a square enclosure with a hot obstacle inside, and the Rayleigh‐Benard problem. The obtained results based on the present thermal LBM with different forcing schemes and velocity discrete models are compared with the existing experimental and numerical data in the literature. This comparison study indicates that imposing all employed forcing schemes leads to similar performance for the simulation of free convection problems studied at the middle range of Rayleigh numbers. It is found that the Luo forcing scheme is simple for implementation in comparison with the other three forcing schemes and provides the results with acceptable accuracy at moderate Rayleigh numbers. At higher Rayleigh numbers, however, the Guo scheme is not only numerically stable but a more precise forcing scheme in comparison with the other three methods. It is illustrated that employing the discrete velocity model of D2Q4 has more appropriate numerical stability along with less computational cost in comparison with two other discrete velocity models for simulation of natural convection heat transfer.