bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future competencies for three demanding careers of industry 4.0: Robotics engineers, data scientists, and food designers
Authors: Rawboon Khwanruethai , Yamazaki Atsuko K. , Klomklieng Wannaphop , Thanomsub Wisa
Published: June 2021

Introduction

The Asian region is now a pivotal driver of global economic growth. Urgent discussions are thus mandated on the forthcoming demands for qualifications generating broad‐based knowledge and skillsets related to emergent challenges posed by the new industrial revolution. A survey of competencies that will be required is crucial for Asian universities and higher education institutions in other regions because a large percentage of university graduates are shortly likely to work in Asian countries.

Objective

This paper identified the future competencies for three careers that are representative of the demand for highly skilled personnel needed in potential industries during Industry 4.0: robotics engineers, data scientists, and food designers.

Methods

This study describes the insights attained through a literature review, followed by an intensive investigation of the required competencies via focus group discussions and individual interviews. A questionnaire survey was administered and in‐depth interviews were conducted to confirm the future competencies essential for the three stated careers. Finally, the robustness of the conducted analyses was verified.

Results

The findings revealed the demand for a diverse mix of competencies in the current and prospective Industry 4.0 environment. Future employers are likely to highlight multidisciplinary skills that may be categorized into three crucial groups: social, personal, and methodological.

Conclusion

Universities and higher education institutions across the world should inculcate the required competencies in students to foster necessary knowledge and skills to meet the demands of changing workplaces and promising opportunities over the next decade.
Genetic Incorporation of ϵ‐N‐Benzoyllysine by Engineering Methanomethylophilus alvus Pyrrolysyl‐tRNA Synthetase
Authors: Cao Li , Liu Jun , Ghelichkhani Farid , Rozovsky Sharon , Wang Lei
Published: June 2021

Post‐translational modifications regulate protein structure and function. Lysine benzoylation is a newly discovered histone modification with unique physiological relevance. To construct proteins with this modification site‐specifically, we generated orthogonal tRNAPyl‐MaBzKRS pairs by engineering Methanomethylophilus alvus pyrrolysyl‐tRNA synthetase, allowing the genetic incorporation of ϵ‐N‐benzoyllysine (BzK) into proteins with high efficiency in E. coli and mammalian cells. Two types of MaBzKRS were identified to incorporate BzK using mutations located at different positions of the amino acid binding pocket. These MaBzKRS are small in size and highly expressed, which will afford broad utilities in studying the biological effects of lysine benzoylation.
Incidence, predictors and clinical impact of permanent pacemaker insertion in women following transcatheter aortic valve implantation: Insights from a prospective multinational registry
Authors: Nicolas Johny , Guedeney Paul , Claessen Bimmer E. , Mehilli Julinda , Petronio Anna Sonia , Sartori Samantha , Lefèvre Thierry , Presbitero Patrizia , Capranzano Piera , Iadanza Alessandro , Cao Davide , Chiarito Mauro , Goel Ridhima , Roumeliotis Anastasios , Chandiramani Rishi , Chen Siyan , Sardella Gennaro , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Sorrentino Sabato , Meliga Emanuele , Tchétché Didier , Dumonteil Nicolas , Fraccaro Chiara , Trabattoni Daniela , Mikhail Ghada W. , Ferrer‐Gracia Maria‐Cruz , Naber Christoph , Kievit Peter C. , Baber Usman , Sharma Samin K. , Morice Marie‐Claude , Dangas George D. , Chandrasekhar Jaya , Chieffo Alaide , Mehran Roxana
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To describe the incidence, predictors, and clinical impact of permanent pacemaker insertion (PPI) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in women.

Background

Data on pacemaker insertion complicating TAVR in women are scarce.

Methods

The Women's International Transcatheter Aortic Valve implantation (WIN‐TAVI) is a prospective registry evaluating the safety and efficacy of TAVR in women. We included patients without preprocedural pacemakers and divided them into two groups: (1) PPI and (2) no‐PPI. We identified PPI predictors using logistic regression and studied its clinical impact on the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)‐2 efficacy and safety endpoints.

Results

Out of 1019 patients, 922 were included in the analysis. Post‐TAVR PPI occurred in 132 (14.3%) patients. Clinical and procedural characteristics were similar in both groups. Pre‐existing right bundle branch block (RBBB) was associated with a high risk of post‐TAVR PPI (OR 3.62, 95% CI 1.85–7.06, p < 0.001), while implantation of balloon‐expandable prosthesis was associated with a lower risk (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.30–0.74, p < 0.001). Post‐TAVR PPI prolonged in‐hospital stay by a median of 2 days (11 [9–16] days in PPI vs. 9 [7–14] days in no‐PPI, p = 0.005), yet risks of VARC‐2 efficacy and safety endpoints at 1 year were similar in both groups (adjHR 0.95, 95% CI 0.60–1.52, p = 0.84 and adjHR 1.22, 95% CI 0.83–1.79, p = 0.31, respectively).

Conclusion

Pacemaker implantation following TAVR is frequent among women and is associated with pre‐existing RBBB and valve type. PPI prolongs hospital stay, albeit without any significant impact on 1‐year outcomes.
Versatile Reaction Pathways of 1,1,3,3,3‐Pentafluoropropene at Rh(I) Complexes [Rh(E)(PEt3)3] (E=H, GePh3, Si(OEt)3, F, Cl): C‐F versus C‐H Bond Activation Steps
Authors: Talavera Maria , Braun Thomas
Published: June 2021

The reaction of the rhodium(I) complexes [Rh(E)(PEt3)3] (E=GePh3 (1), H (6), F (7)) with 1,1,3,3,3‐pentafluoropropene afforded the defluorinative germylation products Z/E‐2‐(triphenylgermyl)‐1,3,3,3‐tetrafluoropropene and the fluorido complex [Rh(F)(CF3CHCF2)(PEt3)2] (2) together with the fluorophosphorane E‐(CF3)CH=CF(PFEt3). For [Rh(Si(OEt)3)(PEt3)3] (4) the coordination of the fluoroolefin was found to give [Rh{Si(OEt)3}(CF3CHCF2)(PEt3)2] (5). Two equivalents of complex 2 reacted further by C−F bond oxidative addition to yield [Rh(CF=CHCF3)(PEt3)2(μ‐F)3Rh(CF3CHCF2)(PEt3)] (9). The role of the fluorido ligand on the reactivity of complex 2 was assessed by comparison with the analogous chlorido complex. The use of complexes 1, 4 and 6 as catalysts for the derivatization of 1,1,3,3,3‐pentafluoropropene provided products, which were generated by hydrodefluorination, hydrometallation and germylation reactions.
Effect of Alkyl Structures on the Anti‐stacking and Anchoring of Pd/Diamine‐Functionalized Graphene Nanoparticles in Application in Suzuki Reaction
Authors: Tian Yinbing , Tang Zijie , Ru Yu , Wang Yuanyuan , Dai Liyi
Published: June 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Three diamines (1,8‐diaminooctane/p‐phenylenediamine/biphenylenediamine) with different alkyl groups were used to synthesize the functionalized graphene networks. Pd as the common metal catalyst was used to explore the effects of alkyl types of diamines on anti‐stacking, metal anchoring ability of functional graphene and hence the catalytic performance. The results were discussed by characterization of the material and its catalytic properties. All catalysts showed excellent catalytic performance on the Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction with a high yield of up to 100%. The p‐phenylenediamine and biphenylenediamine functionalized graphene with larger specific surface area was beneficial to improve the stability of the graphene catalyst and maintain good catalytic activity after 5 cycles. The Pd nanoparticles in 1,8‐octanediamine materials have smaller size and a smaller loading with the same or even better catalytic performance than p‐phenylenediamine, biphenylenediamine materials, due to the stronger electron donating ability of N of octanediamine than that of p‐phenylenediamine.
Exploratory echocardiographic strain parameters for the estimation of myocardial infarct size in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Dannenberg Varius , Christiansen Finn , Schneider Matthias , Kastl Stefan , Hofbauer Thomas Martin , Scherz Thomas , Mascherbauer Julia , Beitzke Dietrich , Testori Christoph , Lang Irene Marthe , Mangold Andreas
Published: June 2021

Background

Outcome after ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) can be most reliably estimated by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. However, CMR is expensive, laborious, and has only limited availability. In comparison, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is widely available and cost‐efficient.

Hypothesis

TTE strain parameters can be used as surrogate markers for CMR‐measured parameters after STEMI.

Methods

TTE strain analysis was performed of patients included in a controlled, prospective STEMI trial (NCT01777750) 4 ± 2 days after the event. Longitudinal peak strain (LPS), post‐systolic shortening, early systolic lengthening, early systolic lengthening time, and time to peak shortening were measured, and index parameters were computed. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) and ejection fraction (EF) were compiled. Parameters were correlated with CMR‐measured variables 4 ± 2 days after STEMI.

Results

In 70 STEMI patients, high quality CMR and TTE data were available. Highest correlation with CMR‐measured infarct size was observed with GLS (r = 0.577, p < 0.0001), LPS (r = 0.571, p < 0.0001), and EF (r = −0.533, p < 0.0001). Highest correlation with CMR‐measured area at risk was observed with GLS (r = 0.666, p < 0.0001), LPS (0.661, p < 0.0001) and early systolic lengthening index (r = 0.540, p < 0.0001). Receiver operating characteristics for the detection of large infarcts (quartile with highest infarct size) showed the highest area under the curve for LPS, GLS, EF, and myocardial dysfunction index. Multiple linear regression displayed the best association between GLS and infarct size.

Conclusion

Exploratory strain parameters significantly correlate with CMR‐measured area at risk and infarct size and are of potential interest as endpoint variables in clinical trials.
Identification of the FDA‐Approved Drug Pyrvinium as a Small‐Molecule Inhibitor of the PD‐1/PD‐L1 Interaction
Authors: Fattakhova Elena , Hofer Jeremy , DiFlumeri Juliette , Cobb Madison , Dando Timothy , Romisher Zachary , Wellington Justin , Oravic Michael , Radnoff Madison , Patil Sachin P.
Published: June 2021

Immune checkpoint blockade involving inhibition of the PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction has provided unprecedented clinical benefits in treating a variety of tumors. To date, a total of six antibodies that bind to either PD‐1 or PD‐L1 protein and in turn inhibit the PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction have received clinical approvals. Despite being highly effective, these expensive large biotherapeutics possess several inherent pharmacokinetic limitations that can be successfully overcome through the use of low‐molecular‐weight inhibitors. One such promising approach involves small‐molecule induced dimerization and sequestration of PD‐L1, leading to effective PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibition. Herein, we present the discovery of such potential bioactive PD‐L1 dimerizers through a structure‐ and ligand‐based screening of a focused library of approved and investigational drugs worldwide. Pyrvinium, an FDA‐approved anthelmintic drug, showed the highest activity in our study with IC50 value of ∼29.66 μM. It is noteworthy that Pyrvinium, being an approved drug, may prove especially suitable as a good starting point for further medicinal chemistry efforts, leading to design and development of even more potent structural analogs as selective PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors. Furthermore, the adopted integrated virtual screening protocol may prove useful in screening other larger databases of lead‐ and drug‐like molecules for hit identification in the domain of small‐molecule PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors.
Single‐Dose Pharmacokinetics and Tolerability of the Oral Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor Mobocertinib (TAK‐788) in Healthy Volunteers: Low‐Fat Meal Effect and Relative Bioavailability of 2 Capsule Products
Authors: Zhang Steven , Jin Shu , Griffin Celina , Feng Zhongling , Lin Jianchang , Baratta Mike , Brake Rachael , Venkatakrishnan Karthik , Gupta Neeraj
Published: June 2021

Mobocertinib (TAK‐788) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor under investigation for treatment of non–small cell lung cancer with activating EGFR exon 20 insertions. This study examined the safety; tolerability; pharmacokinetics (PK), including food effects; and bioavailability of mobocertinib in healthy volunteers. In part 1, fasted volunteers were randomized to placebo or mobocertinib in single‐ascending‐dose cohorts (20‐160 mg). In part 2, mobocertinib (120/160 mg) was administered on day 1 of periods 1 and 2 under fasted or low‐fat meal conditions (2‐period, 2‐sequence crossover design). In part 3, fasted volunteers received mobocertinib 160 mg in 1 of 2 capsule products on day 1 of periods 1 and 2 with 7‐day washout. Safety and PK parameters were assessed. Sixty‐nine volunteers were enrolled (mean age, 29 years; 75% male). The most common adverse events (AEs; ≥10% of volunteers) were gastrointestinal AEs (25%‐50%) and headache (8%‐31%). No serious AEs were reported. A low‐fat meal did not affect the PK of mobocertinib or its active metabolites. The geometric mean terminal disposition phase half‐life (20 hours) supported once‐daily dosing. The 2 capsule products were bioequivalent. These data guided dosing and supported administration of mobocertinib without regard to low‐fat meal intake in ongoing and planned clinical studies.
3D Electron Diffraction Structure Determination of Terrylene, a Promising Candidate for Intermolecular Singlet Fission
Authors: Hall Charlie L. , Andrusenko Iryna , Potticary Jason , Gao Siyu , Liu Xingyu , Schmidt Werner , Marom Noa , Mugnaioli Enrico , Gemmi Mauro , Hall Simon R.
Published: June 2021

Herein we demonstrate the prowess of the 3D electron diffraction approach by unveiling the structure of terrylene, the third member in the series of peri‐condensed naphthalene analogues, which has eluded structure determination for 65 years. The structure was determined by direct methods using electron diffraction data and corroborated by dispersion‐inclusive density functional theory optimizations. Terrylene crystalizes in the monoclinic space group P21/a, arranging in a sandwich‐herringbone packing motif, similar to analogous compounds. Having solved the crystal structure, we use many‐body perturbation theory to evaluate the excited‐state properties of terrylene in the solid‐state. We find that terrylene is a promising candidate for intermolecular singlet fission, comparable to tetracene and rubrene.
Rsg1.a3: A new allele conferring unique resistance to greenbug Biotype H at the Rsg1 locus in Hordeum vulgare ssp. spontaneum
Authors: Xu Xiangyang , Mornhinweg Dolores W. , Bai Guihua , Steffenson Brian , Bian Ruolin , Li Genqiao , Bernardo Amy
Published: June 2021

Greenbug (Schizaphisgraminum Rondani) is one of the aphids causing significant cereal yield losses worldwide, and greenbug Biotype H is virulent to all known greenbug resistance genes in barley (Hordeum L.). Wild barley (Hordeum vulgare ssp. spontaneum) accession WBDC336 (PI 682028) exhibits resistance to greenbug Biotypes C, E, H, I, WY81, WY12 MC, and WY86. To investigate the genetics of greenbug resistance in WBDC336, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was developed from the cross Weskan × WBDC336. The RIL population was evaluated for responses to greenbug Biotype E and genotyped using genotyping‐by‐sequencing. Among 67,238 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified, 3,907 high quality SNPs were selected for gene mapping after several filtering steps. Linkage analysis positioned the greenbug resistance gene to a 1.14‐Mb interval in the terminal region of the long arm of chromosome 3H in WBDC336, where the greenbug resistance gene Rsg1 resides. Greenbug assays and an allelism test indicated that the greenbug resistance gene in WBDC336 is likely an allele at the Rsg1 locus and was given the allele designation Rsg1.a3. Two Kompetitive allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) markers were developed from SNPs closely linked to Rsg1.a3, and these markers can be used to tag both alleles at the Rsg1 locus in breeding program utilizing marker‐assisted selection.
Bicentric evaluation of stabilizing sampling tubes for assessment of monocyte HLA‐DR expression in clinical samples
Authors: Hamada Sarah , Jeannet Robin , Gossez Morgane , Cour Martin , Argaud Laurent , Francois Bruno , Daix Thomas , Venet Fabienne , Monneret Guillaume
Published: June 2021

Background

Diminished expression of human leukocyte antigen DR on circulating monocytes (mHLA‐DR), measured by standardized flow cytometry procedure, is a reliable indicator of immunosuppression in severely injured intensive care unit patients. As such, it is used as stratification criteria in clinical trials evaluating novel immunostimulating therapies. Preanalytical constraints relative to the short delay between blood sampling and flow cytometry staining have nevertheless limited its use in multicentric studies. The objective of the present work was to compare mHLA‐DR expression between whole blood samples simultaneously drawn in EDTA or Cyto‐Chex BCT tubes.

Methods

In two university hospitals, mHLA‐DR was assessed in fresh whole blood from septic patients (n = 12) and healthy donors (n = 6) simultaneously sampled on EDTA and Cyto‐Chex BCT tubes. Staining was performed immediately after sampling and after blood storage at room temperature.

Results

We confirmed that samples collected in Cyto‐Chex tube had substantially enhanced stability for mHLA‐DR results (48–72 h) over those collected in EDTA. On baseline values, despite good correlation between tubes (r = 0.98, p < 0.001), mHLA‐DR expression was systematically lower with Cyto‐Chex BCT.

Conclusion

The present reports confirms the potential of Cyto‐Chex BCT tubes to stabilize mHLA‐DR expression before staining and extends the work of Quadrini et al. [Cytometry B 2021;100:103‐114]. In centers without rapid access to flow cytometry facilities, it enables to tolerate delays in mHLA‐DR staining. However, a 30% gap exists between results obtained with EDTA and Cyto‐Chex BCT tubes. As current thresholds for clinical decisions were obtained with EDTA samples, further studies are needed to confirm clinical thresholds with Cyto‐Chex BCT tubes.
Hippocampal subfield volumes are associated with verbal memory after first‐ever ischemic stroke
Authors: Khlif Mohamed Salah , Bird Laura J. , Restrepo Carolina , Khan Wasim , Werden Emilio , Egorova‐Brumley Natalia , Brodtmann Amy
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Hippocampal subfield volumes are more closely associated with cognitive impairment than whole hippocampal volume in many diseases. Both memory and whole hippocampal volume decline after stroke. Understanding the subfields’ temporal evolution could reveal valuable information about post‐stroke memory.

Methods

We sampled 120 participants (38 control, 82 stroke), with cognitive testing and 3T‐MRI available at 3 months and 3 years, from the Cognition and Neocortical Volume after Stroke (CANVAS) study. Verbal memory was assessed using the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test‐Revised. Subfields were delineated using FreeSurfer. We used partial Pearson's correlation to assess the associations between subfield volumes and verbal memory scores, adjusting for years of education, sex, and stroke side.

Results

The left cornu ammonis areas 2/3 and hippocampal tail volumes were significantly associated with verbal memory 3‐month post‐stroke. At 3 years, the associations became stronger and involved more subfields.

Discussion

Hippocampal subfield volumes may be a useful biomarker for post‐stroke cognitive impairment.
Medicinal chemistry of anthranilic acid derivatives: A mini review
Authors: Prasher Parteek , Sharma Mousmee
Published: June 2021

Anthranilic acid and its analogues present a privileged profile as pharmacophores for the rational development of pharmaceuticals deliberated for managing the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of various diseases. The substitution on anthranilic acid scaffold provides large compound libraries, which enable a comprehensive assessment of the structure activity relationship (SAR) analysis for the identification of hits and leads in a typical drug development paradigm. Besides, their widespread applications as anti‐inflammatory fenamates, the amide and anilide derivatives of anthranilic acid analogues play a central role in the management of several metabolic disorders. In addition, these derivatives of anthranilic acid exhibit interesting antimicrobial, antiviral and insecticidal properties, whereas the derivatives based on anthranilic diamide scaffold present applications as P‐glycoprotein inhibitors for managing the drug resistance in cancer cells. In addition, the anthranilic acid derivatives serve as the inducers of apoptosis, inhibitors of hedgehog signaling pathway, inhibitors of mitogen activated protein kinase pathway, and the inhibitors of aldo‐keto reductase enzymes. The antiviral derivatives of anthranilic acid focus on the inhibition of hepatitis C virus NS5B polymerase to manifest considerable antiviral properties. The anthranilic acid derivatives reportedly present neuroprotective applications by downregulating the key pathways responsible for the manifestation of neuropathological features and neurodegeneration. Nevertheless, the transition metal complexes of anthranilic acid derivatives offer therapeutic applications in diabetes mellitus, and obesity by regulating the activity of α‐glucosidase. The present review demonstrates a critical analysis of the therapeutic profile of the key derivatives of anthranilic acid and its analogues for the rational development of pharmaceuticals and therapeutic molecules.
Interspecific variation in mortality and growth and changes in their relationship with size class in an old‐growth temperate forest
Authors: Masaki Takashi , Kitagawa Ryo , Nakashizuka Tohru , Shibata Mitsue , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: June 2021

Understanding trade‐offs between demographic parameters is crucial when investigating community assembly rules in high‐diversity forests. To this end, we estimated mortality and growth parameters, and correlations among them, across entire size classes for 17 tree species (Betula,Carpinus,Fagus,Quercus,Castanea,Acer,Cerasus,Swida,Kalopanax, andStyrax) using a dataset over 18 years obtained from an old‐growth forest in Japan.

Size classes were represented by 12 categories determined by age, height, and diameter at breast height (DBH) from new seedlings to stems of DBH >85 cm. We derived the annual mortality and growth for each species and class using estimates of transition probabilities between classes. Trade‐offs or synergies in growth and survival among species per size class were analyzed with and without the inclusion of phylogenetic relationships.

Annual mortality showed U‐shaped patterns across size classes for species that could potentially reach a DBH ≥55 cm: 0.2–0.98 for seedlings, 0.002–0.01 at DBH 35–45 cm, and ca. 0.01 at DBH ≥55 cm. Other species demonstrated monotonically decreasing mortality toward specific maximum size classes. When phylogenetic information was included in analyses, the correlations between survival and growth changed across size classes were significant for some classes: As an overall tendency, synergy was observed in growth and survival for seedling to sapling classes, trade‐offs for juvenile to DBH 15–25 cm classes, and synergy again for larger classes. When phylogenetic information was not included, a significant trade‐off was observed only at DBH 5–15 cm.

Synthesis. Trade‐offs at intermediate classes imply differentiation in demographic characteristics related to life history strategies. However, evolutionarily obtained demographic characteristics are not substantial drivers of niche differentiation in the study area. The polylemma of mortality, growth, and other parameters such as the onset of reproduction may also be important factors driving species‐specific demographic traits.
Recent Advances on Porous Materials for Synergetic Adsorption and Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Tianqi , Tian Bingbing , Han Bin , Ma Dingren , Sun Mingzhe , Hanif Aamir , Xia Dehua , Shang Jin
Published: June 2021

Porous photocatalysts are promising materials capable of simultaneously adsorbing and oxidizing/reducing target species, showing great potentials in environmental remediation and energy generation. This review offered a comprehensive overview of the recent progress in design, fabrication, and applications of porous photocatalysts, including carbon‐based semiconductors, metal oxides/sulfides, metal–organic frameworks, and adsorbent–photocatalyst hybrids. The fundamental understanding of the structure–performance relationships of porous materials together with the in‐depth insights into the synergetic effects between adsorption and photocatalysis was presented. The strategies to further improve the photocatalytic activity of porous photocatalysts were proposed. This review would provide references and outlooks of constructing efficient porous materials for adsorptive and photocatalytic removal of pollutants and energy production.
Transient electrophoresis of a conducting spherical particle embedded in an electrolyte‐saturated Brinkman medium
Authors: Sherief H. H. , Faltas M. S. , Ragab Kareem E.
Published: June 2021

In this study, the time‐dependent electrophoretic motion of a conducting spherical particle embedded in an arbitrary electrolyte solution saturated porous medium is investigated. The porous medium is uniformly charged and the embedded hard particle is charged with constant ‐potential or constant surface charge density. The unsteady modified Brinkman equation with an electric force term, which governs the fluid velocity field, is used to model the porous medium and is solved by Laplace's transform technique. An analytical expression for the electrophoretic velocity of the spherical particle is obtained in Laplace transform domain as a function of the relevant parameters, and its inversion is obtained through numerical techniques. Also, in this study, the steady‐state electrophoretic velocity is obtained analytically as linear functions of ‐potential (or surface density charge) and the fixed charge density. The steady‐state electrophoretic velocity is displayed graphically for various relevant parameters and compered with the available data in the literature. Also, the numerical values of the transient electrophoretic velocity are plotted versus the nondimensional elapsed time and discussed for different values of the Debye length parameter, density ratio, permeability of the porous medium, and for high and nonconducting particles.
Spectroelectrochemistry and photoelectrochemistry of electrodeposited ZnO nanorods
Authors: Vázquez Cecilia I. , Benavente Llorente Victoria , Zanotto Franco M. , Baruzzi Ana M. , Iglesias Rodrigo A.
Published: June 2021

The electrodeposition of nanostructured semiconductors with tunable properties is of vital importance to develop optoelectronic devices. In this work, we introduce a novel synthesis protocol involving a multiple pulse electrodeposition nucleation stage combined with conventional potentiostatic ZnO nanorod growth in a nitrate bath. The in‐situ nucleation step allowed a higher surface density of ZnO nanorods. The effect of potential and total charge transferred during the nanorod growth was also systematically studied. Besides, spectroelectrochemical properties of different diameter electrodeposited ZnO nanorods were compared. Electrochemical Burstein‐Moss shift was observed for the different diameter ZnO nanorods when the potential was modified. Finally, spectroelectrochemical measurements of small diameter (≈60 nm) ZnO nanorods were carried out under different conditions, for example, electrolyte composition and amount of dissolved O2, to establish how these parameters affect the Burstein‐Moss shift.
Mutational signatures in T‐lymphocytes of rats treated with N‐propyl‐N‐nitrosourea and procarbazine
Authors: Revollo Javier R. , McKinzie Page B. , Robison Timothy W. , Dobrovolsky Vasily N.
Published: June 2021

We have used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to determine mutational signatures induced in the T‐cells of rats treated in vivo with N‐propyl‐N‐nitrosourea (PNU) or procarbazine (PCZ). The signatures from the treated rats were different from the signature of background mutations. The main component of the spontaneous T‐cell mutational signature was C➔T transition with all other single base substitutions evenly distributed. The PNU‐induced mutational signature showed relatively equal contributions from C➔T and T➔C transitions, and T➔A transversions. The PCZ‐induced signature was characterized by T➔C transitions, T➔A and, to a smaller extent, T➔G transversions. C➔G transversions were infrequent in either the PNU or PCZ signatures. WGS not only allowed mutational signature detection, but also measured quantitative responses to mutagen treatment: 10–40× increases in the number of mutations per clone were detected in T‐cell clones from treated rats. The overall strand specificity of induced mutations for annotated rat genes was comparable to the strand specificity of mutations determined previously for the endogenous X‐linked Pig‐a gene. Our results provide valuable reference data for future applications of WGS in safety research and risk assessment.
Performance‐based seismic retrofitting of frame structures using negative stiffness devices and fluid viscous dampers via optimization
Authors: Idels Ohad , Lavan Oren
Published: June 2021

In this paper, an optimization approach for the seismic retrofitting of inelastic moment resisting frames (MRFs) equipped with nonlinear fluid viscous dampers (FVDs) and negative stiffness devices (NSDs) is presented. The goal of the optimization is to minimize a cost‐related objective function, which accounts for the cost of the supplemental FVDs and NSDs. The mechanical properties and the topological layout of both the FVDs and NSDs are considered as design variables and simultaneously optimized during the optimization process. A loss estimation analysis is utilized as a performance constraint, where the PEER framework is adopted. The structural response is evaluated using a nonlinear time history analysis (NTHA), which accounts for the nonlinear behavior of the MRF elements, FVDs, and NSDs. The optimization problem is formulated using differentiable functions only, making it suitable for an efficient gradient‐based optimization solution scheme. The gradients are efficiently derived using the adjoint sensitivity analysis approach. Two numerical examples show the robustness and efficiency of the presented methodology, where the optimized design relies on NSDs and FVDs in both examples.
Cognitive remediation therapy for anorexia nervosa as a rolling group intervention: Data from a longitudinal study in an eating disorders specialized inpatient unit
Authors: Meneguzzo Paolo , Tenconi Elena , Todisco Patrizia , Favaro Angela
Published: June 2021

Objective

Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) has been proposed as an add‐on treatment approach that could increase the engagement in treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN) patients and reduce maintaining factors, but prior studies have evaluated CRT in individual and group settings, difficult protocols for rehabilitation settings. Our aim is to evaluate the CRT rolling protocol implementation in an inpatient specialised unit.

Methods

A historical longitudinal controlled study was designed to include 31 AN patients for the CRT program, and 28 AN patients treated as usual. The CRT rolling group was implemented in a multidisciplinary inpatient rehabilitation ward with both adolescent and adult patients and an 8‐weeks protocol. To evaluate the treatment implementation effect, different self‐administered questionnaires were used.

Results

The study found greater improvements of the CRT group in clinical symptomatology (p = 0.039), flexibility (p = 0.003), self‐confidence about the ability to change (p < 0.001), and less short‐term focus (p < 0.001), with no differences between restrictive and binge‐purging patients.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that CRT rolling group protocol is feasible in an inpatient treatment setting and may improve a rehabilitation program's outcome. Our results have shown how CRT can influence cognitive styles considered AN maintenance factors, positively affecting both restrictive and binge‐purge type.
Rapid detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa using a DNAzyme‐based sensor
Authors: Qin Mingcan , Ma Xiaoyi , Fan Shihui , Wu Hangjie , Yan Wanli , Tian Xiaopeng , Lu Jing , Lyu Mingsheng , Wang Shujun
Published: June 2021

In the present study, a DNAzyme was screened in vitro through the use of a DNA library and crude extracellular mixture (CEM) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Following eight rounds of selection, a DNAzyme termed PAE‐1 was obtained, which displayed high rates of cleavage with strong specificity. A fluorescent biosensor was designed for the detection of P. aeruginosa in combination with the DNAzyme. A detection limit as low as 1.2 cfu/ml was observed. Using proteases and filtration, it was determined that the target was a protein with a molecular weight of 10 kDa–50 kDa. The DNAzyme was combined with a polystyrene board to construct a simple indicator plate sensor which produced a color that identified the target within 10 min. The results were reliable when tap water and food samples were tested. The present study provides a novel experimental strategy for the development of sensors based on a DNAzyme to rapidly detect P. aeruginosa in the field.
Bacterial composition and function during fermentation of Mongolia koumiss
Authors: Wu Yue , Li Yu , Gesudu Qimu , Zhang Juntao , Sun Zhihong , Halatu Haobisi , Menghe Bilege , Liu Wenjun
Published: June 2021

Koumiss is a fermented mare's milk beverage that has attracted increasing attention due to its nutritional richness and important economic value. Bacteria in koumiss play a major role in pH decreasing and reducing spoilage through bacterial inhibition. The dynamic changes in nutritional content were determined firstly during fermentation, and then the metagenomics sequencing technology was applied to profile koumiss core microbiota at the species level. We also clarified the function and effect of the bacteria on the nutritional content of the final product. We also investigated active microbial function by comparing the metagenomics of representative samples collected at different time points during the fermentation process. This study dynamically revealed the bacterial composition and function of traditional koumiss during its making process. Twenty‐three major functional categories related to amino acid and fat synthesis, metabolism, and so on were identified. Functional category L (represented replication‐, recombination‐, and repair‐related functions) was one of the most important categories with the highest relative abundance in all of the 23 major functional categories. CoG category having a significant correlation with Lactococcus piscium was the most abundant. The change in metabolic activity of bacteria at different fermentation time points showed that the metabolic activity was more active in the first 24 hr and then began to stabilize. LAB play the major role in the koumiss pH decreasing and quality improvement. The functional genes of related metabolic activity of lactic acid bacteria were more active in the first 24 hr of koumiss fermentation and then began to stabilize.
Comparative study of the crystallographic expansion of GSC and LSC porous electrodes
Authors: Kivi Indrek , Nurk Gunnar , Korjus Ove , Möller Priit , Aruväli Jaan , Lust Karmen , Lust Enn
Published: June 2021

Characteristics of the porous Gd0.15Sr0.85CoO3−δ and La0.6Sr0.4CoO3−δ cathodes were compared using the data measured at different electrode potentials and oxygen partial pressures. The electrochemical high‐temperature in situ XRD (HT‐XRD) method combined with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy has been used. The response of the crystallographic parameters and impedance values on the changes of electrode potential has been discussed. Reversible changes of the lattice parameters for both cathodes, slower for Gd0.15Sr0.85CoO3−δ compared with La0.6Sr0.4CoO3−δ, were observed depending on temperature (T), electrode potential (E), and oxygen partial pressure (pO2). The crystallographic parameters are determined by the vacancy formation kinetics as well as by vacancy formation energy in/at the cathode grain structure. Calculated impedance data were fitted to the experimental data and characteristics were obtained in context of crystallographic changes of the cathode materials studied.
A history of previous childbirths is linked to women's white matter brain age in midlife and older age
Authors: Voldsbekk Irene , Barth Claudia , Maximov Ivan I. , Kaufmann Tobias , Beck Dani , Richard Genevieve , Moberget Torgeir , Westlye Lars T. , de Lange Ann‐Marie G.
Published: June 2021

Maternal brain adaptations occur in response to pregnancy, but little is known about how parity impacts white matter and white matter ageing trajectories later in life. Utilising global and regional brain age prediction based on multi‐shell diffusion‐weighted imaging data, we investigated the association between previous childbirths and white matter brain age in 8,895 women in the UK Biobank cohort (age range = 54–81 years). The results showed that number of previous childbirths was negatively associated with white matter brain age, potentially indicating a protective effect of parity on white matter later in life. Both global white matter and grey matter brain age estimates showed unique contributions to the association with previous childbirths, suggesting partly independent processes. Corpus callosum contributed uniquely to the global white matter association with previous childbirths, and showed a stronger relationship relative to several other tracts. While our findings demonstrate a link between reproductive history and brain white matter characteristics later in life, longitudinal studies are required to establish causality and determine how parity may influence women's white matter trajectories across the lifespan.
Computational modeling of heat transfer in magneto‐non‐Newtonian material in a circular tube with viscous and Joule heating
Authors: Mahanthesh B. , Al‐Kouz Wael , Swain Kharabela , Rout Prasanna Kumar
Published: June 2021

Numerous industrial and engineering systems, like, heat exchangers, chemical action reactors, geothermic systems, geological setups, and many others, involve convective heat transfer through a porous medium. The diffusion rate, drag force, and mechanical phenomenon are dealt with in the Darcy–Forchheimer model, and hence this model is vital to study the fluid flow and heat transport analysis. Therefore, numerical simulation of the Darcy–Forchheimer dynamics of a Casson material in a circular tube subjected to the energy losses due to the viscous heating and Joule dissipation mechanisms is performed. The novelty of the present investigation is to scrutinize the convective heat transport characteristics in a circular tube saturated with Darcy–Forchheimer porous matrix by utilizing the non‐Newtonian Casson fluid. The flow occurs due to the elongation of the surface of a tube with a uniform heat‐based source/sink. The similarity solution of the nonlinear problem was obtained using dimensionless similarity variables. The effects of operating parameters related to the flow phenomena are analyzed. Further, the friction factor and Nusselt number are also analyzed in detail. The present flow model ensures no flow reversal and acts as a coolant of the heated cylindrical surface; the existence of the magnetic field, as well as an inertial coefficient, acts as the momentum‐breaking forces, whereas Casson fluidity builds it. The Joule heating phenomenon enhances the magnitude of temperature. The thermal field of the Casson fluid is higher at the surface of the circular pipe due to convective thermal conditions.
Chitosan and alginate salt as biomaterials are potential natural adjuvants for killed cholera vaccine
Authors: AbdelAllah Nourhan H. , Gaber Yasser , AbdelGhani Sameh , Rashed Mohamed E. , Azmy Ahmed F.
Published: June 2021

Chitosan and alginate salts are natural biopolymers that have gained recent attention in the biomedical sectors. Their properties allow them to become potential candidates as safe, cheap, and effective vaccine adjuvants. The present study aimed to enhance the immunogenic response of a current injectable killed cholera vaccine (KCV) using chitosan and alginate salt as natural adjuvants against alum. We tested KCV adjuvanted with alum, chitosan, and sodium alginate in mice. Mice were immunized intraperitoneally with KCV adjuvanted with alum, chitosan, or alginate salt and compared with a control unadjuvanted immunized group. Humoral, cellular, and functional immune responses were evaluated in all groups. The addition of adjuvants, particularly natural adjuvants, to KCV significantly improved the immune response as demonstrated by specific antibody increase, strong proliferation effects, and high protection rate against different challenge doses of cholera strains. Our findings demonstrate that chitosan and alginate salt are superior adjuvants for boosting the KCV immune response and highlights the requirement for further vaccine development.
Platelet‐like particles reduce coagulopathy‐related and neuroinflammatory pathologies post‐experimental traumatic brain injury
Authors: Todd Jordan , Bharadwaj Vimala N. , Nellenbach Kimberly , Nandi Seema , Mihalko Emily , Copeland Connor , Brown Ashley C. , Stabenfeldt Sarah E.
Published: June 2021

Coagulopathy may occur following traumatic brain injury (TBI), thereby negatively affecting patient outcomes. Here, we investigate the use of platelet‐like particles (PLPs), poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic‐acid) microgels conjugated with a fibrin‐specific antibody, to improve hemostasis post‐TBI. The objective of this study was to diminish coagulopathy in a mouse TBI model (controlled cortical impact) via PLP treatment, and subsequently decrease blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability and neuroinflammation. Following an acute intravenous injection of PLPs post‐TBI, we analyzed BBB permeability, ex vivo coagulation parameters, and neuroinflammation at 24 hr and 7 days post‐TBI. Both PLP‐treatment and control particle‐treatment had significantly decreased BBB permeability and improved clot structure 24 hr post‐injury. Additionally, no significant change in tissue sparing was observed between 24 hr and 7 days for PLP‐treated cohorts compared to that observed in untreated cohorts. Only PLP‐treatment resulted in significant reduction of astrocyte expression at 7 days and percent difference from 24 hr to 7 days. Finally, PLP‐treatment significantly reduced the percent difference from 24 hr to 7 days in microglia/macrophage density compared to the untreated control. These results suggest that PLP‐treatment addressed acute hypocoagulation and decreased BBB permeability followed by decreased neuroinflammation and fold‐change tissue loss by 7 days post‐injury. These promising results indicate that PLPs could be a potential therapeutic modality for TBI.
CHAMPION: Chalmers hierarchical atomic, molecular, polymeric and ionic analysis toolkit
Authors: Andersson Rasmus , Årén Fabian , Franco Alejandro A. , Johansson Patrik
Published: June 2021

We present CHAMPION (Chalmers hierarchical atomic, molecular, polymeric, and ionic analysis toolkit): a software developed to automatically detect time‐dependent bonds between atoms based on their dynamics, classify the local graph topology around them, and analyze the physicochemical properties of these topologies by statistical physics. In stark contrast to methodologies where bonds are detected based on static conditions such as cut‐off distances, CHAMPION considers pairs of atoms to be bound only if they move together and act as a bound pair over time. Furthermore, the time‐dependent global bond graph is possible to split into dynamically shifting connected components or subgraphs around a certain chemical motif and thereby allow the physicochemical properties of each such topology to be analyzed by statistical physics. Applicable to condensed matter and liquids in general, and electrolytes in particular, this allows both quantitative and qualitative descriptions of local structure, as well as dynamical processes such as speciation and diffusion. We present here a detailed overview of CHAMPION, including its underlying methodology, implementation, and capabilities.
Lung ultrasound score based on the BLUE‐plus protocol is associated with the outcomes and oxygenation indices of intensive care unit patients
Authors: Peng Qian‐Yi , Liu Li‐Xia , Zhang Qian , Zhu Ying , Zhang Hong‐Min , Yin Wan‐Hong , He Wei , Shang Xiu‐Ling , Chao Yan‐Gong , Lv Li‐Wen , Wang Xiao‐Ting , Zhang Li‐Na ,   Chinese Critical Ultrasound Study Group (CCUSG)
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The primary objective was to demonstrate the relationship between lung ultrasound (LUS) manifestations and the outcomes of intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The secondary objective was to determine the characteristics of LUS manifestations in different subgroups of ICU patients.

Methods

This prospective multi‐center cohort study was conducted in 17 ICUs. A total of 1702 patients admitted between August 31, 2017 and February 16, 2019 were included. LUS was performed according to the bedside lung ultrasound in emergency (BLUE)‐plus protocol, and LUS scores were calculated. Data on the outcomes and oxygenation indices were analyzed and compared between different primary indication groups.

Results

The LUS scores were significantly higher for non‐survivors than for survivors and were significantly different between the oxygenation index groups, with higher scores in the lower oxygenation index groups. The LUS score was an independent risk factor for the 28‐day mortality. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.663 for prediction of the 28‐day mortality and 0.748 for prediction of an oxygenation index ≤100.

Conclusions

The LUS score based on the BLUE‐plus protocol was an independent risk factor for the 28‐day mortality and was important for the prediction of an oxygenation index ≤100. An early LUS score within 24 hours of ICU admission helps predicting the outcome of ICU patients.