bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of clinical outcomes with propensity‐score matching for colorectal cancer presenting as an oncologic emergency
Authors: Ogawa Katsuhiro , Miyamoto Yuji , Harada Kazuto , Eto Kojiro , Sawayama Hiroshi , Iwagami Shiro , Iwatsuki Masaaki , Baba Yoshifumi , Yoshida Naoya , Baba Hideo
Published: March 2022

Aim

Oncologic emergencies such as perforation and obstruction associated with colorectal cancer are serious diseases that can lead to sepsis. Peritoneal dissemination and other factors may cause cancer progression and worsen the patients’ long‐term prognosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of colorectal cancer presenting as oncologic emergencies on the patients’ clinical course.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study that included 448 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent primary resection at our institution between January 2014 and December 2018. The primary outcome was overall survival, while secondary outcomes were 30‐day mortality and postoperative complications. Cox regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival.

Results

We identified 56 patients who presented with oncologic emergencies (OE group) and 392 patients who presented with no emergencies (NE group). Propensity‐score matching yielded 56 patients in the OE group and 55 in the NE group with balanced baseline covariates. We found a strong association between overall survival (OS) and oncologic emergencies (HR = 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1‐5.5). The 30‐day mortality was not significantly different between the OE and NE groups (4% vs 0%, P = .25). The incidence of severe postoperative complications (Clavien‐Dindo classification ≥grade 3) did not differ significantly between the groups (25% vs 15%, P = .23).

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer presenting as an oncologic emergency could be safely operated on without increasing the 30‐day mortality rate and the incidence of severe postoperative complications. However, the long‐term prognosis was poor.
Hybrid Wireless–Local Communication via Information Propagation for Modular Robotic Synchronization Applications
Authors: Holdcroft Kevin , Belke Christoph , Sigrist Alexander , Bennani Samir , Paik Jamie
Published: March 2022

Modular robots hold promise of adaptability, robustness, and versatility. Synchronization of modules is critical; if a module is asynchronous, not only will the robot fail to perform tasks properly, but its behavior may be self‐destructive through self‐collision. To avoid this, modern modular robots tend to have several separate communication systems. Wireless communication is used for interfacing with an external controller and synchronizing all modules, but is power‐hungry and prone to congestion with a large number of modules. Neighbor‐to‐neighbor (local) communication is necessary for configuration discovery and for synchronizing orientations, but cannot connect to wireless. As it stands, local communication is underutilized and wireless communication struggles with scalability due to number. A novel hybrid protocol is presented, where only a fraction of the modules connect to wireless and act as hubs which propagate messages through the local system. This method reduces both energy consumption and global network traffic while maintaining functionality and adding redundancy in communication. Through careful selection of hubs, it is shown that the operational time of a modular robot can be extended by 20%.
The Synergistic Role of Additive Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence for the Design of New Advanced Intelligent Systems
Authors: Milazzo Mario , Libonati Flavia
Published: March 2022

Intelligent materials and devices are considered the key to fulfill the strict and challenging requirements given by a large set of applications in numerous fields. The synergistic interplay of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, specifically 4D‐printing, and artificial intelligence (AI), have widened the design space and accelerated the design phase. 4D‐printing, intended as the combination of 3D‐printing with a fourth dimension (i.e., time), ensures the fabrication of complex topologies with materials that can be selectively triggered to change specific features (e.g., shape, color), whereas the use of smart inks or embedded sensors can bring additional functionalities (e.g., repairing, sensing, actuating) to fulfill the requirements of the targeted application. AI is the tool allowing scientists to train machines for developing human‐like capabilities to discern, predict, and represent the statistically significant behavior of a phenomenon. If applied to the design of smart structures, it can be a powerful and efficient tool capable of reducing the time‐to‐manufacturing, improving the traditional design approach. In this perspective, a viewpoint is provided on how the synergistic use of AI and AM can advance the design of intelligent systems, with successful applications ranging from the robotics to the bioengineering sectors.
Factors associated with prolonged procedure time of embolization for trauma patients
Authors: Aoki Makoto , Matsumoto Shokei , Toyoda Yukitoshi , Senoo Satomi , Inoue Yukio , Yamada Masaki , Fukada Takuya , Funabiki Tomohiro
Published: March 2022

Aim

Limited information exists on the factors associated with prolonged procedural time in embolization for trauma patients. We clarified the clinical application of embolization in trauma patients and factors associated with a prolonged procedure time.

Methods

Medical records of 162 trauma patients who underwent embolization between January 2007 and December 2020 at a regional trauma care center were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were divided into four embolized body regions: chest, abdomen, pelvis, and other. Patient demographics, trauma mechanism, physiology, trauma severity, embolization procedures, and 30‐day mortality were examined. The outcomes were identifying an embolized body region, embolized arteries, and procedure time. Multiple regression model was created to investigate the factors associated with prolonged procedural time in embolization.

Results

Embolization was mainly undertaken in pelvic fractures (n = 96, 59%) and abdominal organ injuries (n = 57, 35%) and extended to the chest (n = 17, 10%), and other (n = 20, 12%). Approximately 13% (n = 21) of patients underwent embolization in two or more regions. Embolization was more strictly performed in minor artery injuries, for example, external iliac (n = 15, 16%) and lumbar artery (n = 22, 23%) branches in pelvic fractures, and inferior phrenic artery (n = 2, 3.5%) branches in liver injuries. Multiple regression model indicated that the number of embolized arteries (P = 0.021) and number of embolized regions (P < 0.001) were associated with prolonged procedural time in embolization.

Conclusions

Embolization for trauma patients extended to various trauma regions. In time‐sensitive embolization, emergency interventional radiologists showed superior knowledge of expected embolizing arteries and factors associated with procedure time.
A Nonenzymatic Analog of Pyrimidine Nucleobase Biosynthesis
Authors: Yi Jing , Kaur Harpreet , Kazöne Wahnyalo , Rauscher Sophia A. , Gravillier Louis‐Albin , Muchowska Kamila B. , Moran Joseph
Published: March 2022

Metabolic theories for the origin of life posit that inorganic catalysts enabled self‐organized chemical precursors to the pathways of metabolism, including those that make genetic molecules. Recently, experiments showing nonenzymatic versions of a number of core metabolic pathways have started to support this idea. However, experimental demonstrations of nonenzymatic reaction sequences along the de novo ribonucleotide biosynthesis pathways are limited. Here we show that all three reactions of pyrimidine nucleobase biosynthesis that convert aspartate to orotate proceed at 60 °C without photochemistry under aqueous conditions in the presence of metals such as Cu2+and Mn4+. Combining reactions into one‐pot variants is also possible. Life may not have invented pyrimidine nucleobase biosynthesis from scratch, but simply refined existing nonenzymatic reaction channels. This work is a first step towards uniting metabolic theories of life's origin with those centered around genetic molecules.
Metal‐ and Strain‐Free Bioorthogonal Cycloaddition of o‐Diones with Furan‐2(3H)‐one as Anionic Cycloaddend
Authors: Xi Ziwei , Kong Hao , Chen Yu , Deng Jiafang , Xu Wenyuan , Liang Yong , Zhang Yan
Published: March 2022

The development of new bioorthogonal reactions with mutual orthogonality to classic bioorthogonal reactions such as the strain‐promoted azide–alkyne click reaction and the inverse‐electron‐demand Diels–Alder reaction is of great importance in providing chemical tools for multiplex labelling of live cells. Here we report the first anionic cycloaddend‐promoted bioorthogonal cycloaddition reaction between phenanthrene‐9,10‐dione and furan‐2(3H)‐one derivatives, where the high polarity of water is exploited to stabilize the highly electron‐rich anionic cycloaddend. The reaction is metal‐ and strain‐free, which proceeds rapidly in aqueous solution and on live cells with a second‐order rate constant up to 119 M−1 s−1. The combined utilization of this reaction together with the two other widely used bioorthogonal reactions allows for mutually orthogonal labelling of three types of proteins or three groups of living cells in one batch without cross‐talking. Such results highlight the great potential for multiplex labelling of different biomolecules in live cells.
Selective Extraction of Transition Metals from Spent LiNixCoyMn1−x−yO2 Cathode via Regulation of Coordination Environment
Authors: Chang Xin , Fan Min , Gu Chao‐Fan , He Wei‐Huan , Meng Qinghai , Wan Li‐Jun , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: March 2022

The complexity of chemical compounds in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) results in great difficulties in the extraction of multiple transition metals, which have similar physicochemical characteristics. Here, we propose a novel strategy for selective extraction of nickel, cobalt, and manganese from spent LiNixCoyMn1−x−yO2 (NCM) cathode through the regulation of coordination environment. Depending on adjusting the composition of ligand in transition metal complexes, a tandem leaching and separation system is designed and finally enables nickel, cobalt, and manganese to enrich in the form of NiO, Co3O4, and Mn3O4 with high recovery yields of 99.1 %, 95.1 %, and 95.3 %, respectively. We further confirm that the combination of different transition metals with well‐designed ligands is the key to good selectivity. Through our work, fine‐tuning the coordination environment of metal ions is proved to have great prospects in the battery recycling industry.
The story of acyl phosphines: Synthesis, reactivity, and catalytic applications
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Sharma Urvashi , Ananthnag Guddekoppa S.
Published: March 2022

Acyl phosphines (R2P–C(O)R) are the tertiary phosphorus compounds having a P–C(O) linkages. Though they are known historically, their literature is not exhaustive mainly due to the vulnerability of P–C(O) bonds toward nucleophilic substitution reactions. However, there is a renewed interest in the synthesis of acyl phosphines and di (acyl) phosphines, recently. Among the methods available for the synthesis, most involve nucleophilic substitutions at carbonyl carbon by phosphorus nucleophile as a customary step. The examples of phosphines possessing two acyl groups (R(O)C–RP–C(O)R) are found more frequently in the literature of late, and most of them are cyclic in nature. The transition‐metal complexes of acyl phosphines and di (acyl) phosphines are moderately explored in literature. However, their catalytic applications are meager. In the current review, the details of syntheses, reactivity, structural features, and catalytic activities of acyl phosphines and bis (acyl) phosphines reported in the last three decades are discussed.
Preliminary design of recyclable epoxy asphalt: Regeneration feasibility analysis and environmental impact assessment
Authors: Zhou Wenyi , Yi Junyan , Pei Zhongshi , Xie Sainan , Feng Decheng
Published: March 2022

Epoxy asphalt is a construction material for pavement structures and has been widely used due to excellent durability and longevity characteristics. Although the asphalt phase could be compensated after epoxy asphalt aging, the epoxy resin phase cannot be regenerated at high value due to irreversible covalent cross‐links, resulting in reclaimed epoxy asphalt pavement (epoxy RAP) being employed as aggregate. In this paper, with consideration toward its nonrenewable characteristic, a recyclable epoxy asphalt is designed preliminarily based on the reversible principle of dynamic covalent bonds, thus focusing on the principle of circular economy and reducing environmental impact. The molecular design of recyclable epoxy asphalt was conducted to justify it theoretically. An environmental impacts assessment is used to analyze energy consumption and carbon footprint caused by using reclaimed recyclable epoxy asphalt pavement (recyclable epoxy RAP) in asphalt mixture manufacturing. The analysis of molecular design showed the feasibility of recyclable epoxy asphalt regeneration. And the mixture containing recyclable epoxy RAP could reduce the emission of GHGs by 34% compared with the epoxy RAP, although the consumption of energy is approximate. Based on molecular design and environmental impacts evaluation, the sustainability of recyclable epoxy asphalt is verified.
The impact of facial emotional expression on the effectiveness of charitable advertisements: the role of sympathy and manipulative intent
Authors: Kang In‐Hye , Leliveld Marijke C. , Ferraro Rosellina
Published: March 2022

In charitable advertisements, organizations often display the image of a person in need with different facial emotional expressions. Prior research showed the positive effect of using a sad‐ (vs. happy‐ or neutral‐) faced image in evoking sympathy from viewers. Across five studies (N = 2141), we demonstrate that a sad‐faced image evokes not only sympathy but also an inference about the organization's manipulative intent. Moreover, we show that inference of manipulative intent and sympathy simultaneously mediate the effects of facial expression on donation and on attitude toward the advertising campaign, but in opposing directions. While greater sympathy leads to larger donation, greater inference of manipulative intent lowers donation, together contributing to a null effect of facial expression on donation. In contrast, using a sad‐faced image reduces attitude toward the advertising campaign because the mediating effect of inference of manipulative intent tends to be larger than the mediating effect of sympathy in absolute size. The negative effect of a sad‐faced image on attitude toward the advertising campaign is attenuated when the prominence of the image is low (vs. high). Finally, we show that these effects also emerge in the cause‐related marketing advertising context.
A ratiometric fluorescence strategy based on copper nanoclusters/carbon dots for sensitive detection of doxorubicin
Authors: Li Feifei , Fan Pengfei , Chen Xinbei , Lin Xi , Liu Can , Hu Congcong , Yang Shengyuan , Xiao Fubing
Published: March 2022

Sensitive detection of doxorubicin (DOX) is critical for clinical theranostics. A novel ratiometric fluorescence strategy based on the inner filter effect (IFE) has been established for the sensitive detection of DOX by designing a ratiometric fluorescence probe. In the presence of DOX, the fluorescence intensity of copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) at 485 nm decreases, and the fluorescence intensity of carbon dots at 560 nm increases. Therefore, DOX can be quantitatively detected by measuring the ratio of the fluorescence intensities at 560 and 485 nm (F560/F485). The F560/F485 ratio exhibits a linear correlation with the DOX concentration in the range from 1.0 × 10−8 M to 1.0 × 10−4 M with the detection limit of 3.7 nM. Furthermore, this method was also successfully applied to the analysis of DOX in human plasma samples, affording an effective platform for drug safety management.
Synergistic antimicrobial activity of TZP4 with conventional antibiotics against antibiotic‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Kim Eun Young , Kumar S. Dinesh , Ajish Chelladurai , Lee Chul Won , Shin Sung‐Heui , Yang Sungtae , Bang Jeong Kyu , Shin Song Yub
Published: March 2022

We recently synthesized a triazine‐derived amphipathic molecule, TZP4, which has potent antimicrobial activity against antibiotic‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ARPA). Here, we investigated the synergistic antimicrobial effect of TZP4 in combination with four different conventional antibiotics each representing a distinct mechanism against ARPA. Checkerboard assay and time‐kill assays showed that the potent synergistic antimicrobial activity was observed only in TZP4/chloramphenicol and TZP4/ciprofloxacin combinations. Flow cytometry analysis for these combinations demonstrated that the synergistic antimicrobial activity was due to the increased permeability of bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. In addition, TZP4 was able to prevent and eradicate biofilms, which are one of the primary reasons for drug resistance caused by ARPA. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that TZP4 significantly reduced mature ARPA biofilm biomass. Overall, our findings suggest that TZP4 is a potential adjuvant to antimicrobial chemotherapy and a potential antibiofilm agent to treat infections caused by ARPA.
Fabrication of heteroatom doped cobalt catalyst for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions in alkaline medium
Authors: Ahmed Sheraz , Rim Hyung‐Ryul , Sun Ho‐Jung , Lee Hong‐Ki , Shim Joongpyo , Park Gyungse
Published: March 2022

The application of heteroatom doped cobalt (Ni@Co/C) prepared from a porous metal–organic framework as the cathode material for the rechargeable zinc–air batteries has been demonstrated. The Ni@Co/C‐modified electrode showed an excellent catalytic activity toward oxidation–reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reactions. The Co/C catalysts, which were Co particle impregnated on graphitic carbon powders, were synthesized after the calcination of Co3 (SDA)3(DMF)2 precursor, and then Ni deposition (Ni@Co/C) was followed on it by chemical reduction. Linear sweep voltammetry measurement indicates that Ni@Co/C‐H800, which had Ni particles on Co/C derived from MOF at 800 °C under N2, exhibited excellent performance. The stable charging/discharging profiles at 20 mA cm−2 of current were obtained for the 350 h in alkaline medium, suggesting Ni@Co/C‐H800 as a potential candidate for oxidation–reduction and evolution reactions.
Changes in adiposity over the life course and gene expression in postmenopausal women
Authors: Han Yunan , Colditz Graham A. , Toriola Adetunji T.
Published: March 2022

Background

Early life adiposity and changes in adiposity over the life course are associated with mammographic breast density among postmenopausal women. However, the underlying mechanisms are unknown; therefore, we comprehensively examined the associations of early life body mass index (BMI) and changes in BMI from ages 10, 18 to age at mammogram with growth factor, RANK pathway, and sex hormone gene expression in 372 postmenopausal women.

Methods

We estimated early life BMI at age 10 using the validated 9‐level Stunkard pictogram. We calculated BMI at other ages (18, 30, and current age at mammogram) by dividing weight in kilograms at these ages with height in meters squared. Sequencing for gene expression was performed using the NanoString nCounter system. After adjusting for confounders, we estimated associations using multivariable linear regressions.

Results

A 10 kg/m2 increase in early life BMI at age 10 was associated with a 17.2% decrease in RANKL gene expression (95% confidence interval [CI] = −30.8, −0.9) but was not associated with changes in other markers. BMI changes from ages 10, 18 to age at mammogram were associated with an increase in BMP2 and decreases in RANK, RANKL, and TNFRSF13B gene expression but were not associated with gene expression of other markers. A 10 kg/m2 increase in early life BMI from age 10 to current age was associated with a 7.8% increase in BMP2 (95% CI = −1.4, 17.8), an 8.5% decrease in RANK (95% CI = −13.9, −2.8), a 10.4% decrease in RANKL (95% CI = −16.9, −3.3), and an 8.5% decrease in TNFRSF13B gene expression (95% CI = −13.8, −2.8).

Conclusion

The results provide new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying the associations of adiposity changes from early life to adulthood and early life adiposity with mammographic breast density in postmenopausal women.
Pediatric osmotic demyelination syndrome in a case of type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Chaudhary Ashlesha , Chaudhary Aashutosh , Yadav Radhay Shyam , Shrestha Yashaswi , Shah Ritu
Published: March 2022

Cautious treatment of hyponatremia in diabetic ketoacidosis is necessary in order to avoid the development of osmotic demyelination syndrome which is a demyelinating disorder. Individualized supportive therapy would be fruitful for the management of such cases but there is a need for larger studies to guide the management.
Chiral Bis(oxazoline) Ligand‐Supported Alkyl Aluminum Cations
Authors: Hsu Ching‐Pei , Liu Chao‐An , Wen Chu‐Chiao , Liu Yi‐Hung , Lin Ya‐Fan , Chiu Ching‐Wen
Published: March 2022

Alkyl aluminum cations have shown high Lewis acidity and capability of catalyzing challenging organic transformations, however, the related chiral catalyst is scarcely documented. Herein, we report the generation of a series of weakly solvated or Lewis base‐stabilized alkyl aluminum cationic complexes bearing chiral bis(oxazoline) ligands. The increase of steric hindrances at the ligand backbone and the aluminum center were found to significantly increase the complex stability. In the Gutmann–Beckett experiment and fluoride ion affinity calculation, these complexes display Lewis acidity greater than B(C6F5)3 and the reported tetra‐coordinate aluminum cation. Preliminary catalytic studies revealed that the aluminum cation catalysts can effectively promote hydroboration of ketone and hydrosilylation of un‐activated olefin, despite only poor ee values were obtained.
P‐Glycoprotein and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein Transporter Inhibition by Cyclosporine and Quinidine on the Pharmacokinetics of Oral Rimegepant in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Bhardwaj Rajinder , Collins Julie L. , Stringfellow Joseph , Madonia Jennifer , Anderson Matt S. , Finley Jeri‐anne , Stock David A. , Coric Vladimir , Croop Robert , Bertz Richard
Published: March 2022

Rimegepant (Nurtec ODT)—an orally administered, small‐molecule calcitonin gene–related peptide receptor antagonist indicated for the acute and preventive treatment of migraine—is a substrate for both the P‐glycoprotein and breast cancer resistance protein transporters in vitro. We evaluated the effects of concomitant administration of strong inhibitors of these transporters on the pharmacokinetics of rimegepant in healthy subjects. This single‐center, open‐label, randomized study was conducted in 2 parts, both of which were 2‐period, 2‐sequence, crossover studies. Part 1 (n = 15) evaluated the effect of a single oral dose of 200‐mg cyclosporine, a strong inhibitor of the P‐glycoprotein and breast cancer resistance protein transporters, on the pharmacokinetics of rimegepant 75 mg. Part 2 (n = 12) evaluated the effect of a single oral dose of 600‐mg quinidine, a strong selective P‐glycoprotein transporter, on the pharmacokinetics of rimegepant 75 mg. Coadministration with cyclosporine showed an increase in rimegepant area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity and maximum observed concentration based on geometric mean ratios (90% confidence intervals [CIs]) of 1.6 (1.49‐1.72) and 1.41 (1.27‐1.57), respectively, versus rimegepant alone. Coadministration with quinidine showed an increase in rimegepant area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity and maximum observed concentration geometric mean ratios (90% CIs) of 1.55 (1.40‐1.72) and 1.67 (1.46‐1.91), respectively, versus rimegepant alone. Strong P‐glycoprotein inhibitors (cyclosporine, quinidine) increased rimegepant exposures (>50%, <2‐fold). In parts 1 and 2, rimegepant coadministration was well tolerated and safe. The similar effect of cyclosporine and quinidine coadministration on rimegepant exposure suggests that inhibition of breast cancer resistance protein inhibition may have less influence on rimegepant exposure.
Evolution of Chemical Research in Nice, Côte d′Azur: From Early Laboratories to the ‘Institut de Chimie de Nice’
Authors: Gal Jean‐François , Maria Pierre‐Charles , Duñach Elisabet , Meierhenrich Uwe J.
Published: March 2022

The ‘Institut de Chimie de Nice’ (ICN), founded in 2012, celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Today, the ICN is part of the University Côte d'Azur (UCA), one out of nine excellence universities in France. ICN is also affiliated to the CNRS. We use the institute's anniversary to reflect on the origins and the successful evolution of research in chemical sciences in Nice, France. We outline research topics and their development towards modern chemistry in Nice that are characterized by innovation and territorial anchoring. At present, four research axes, namely aroma and perfume chemistry, medicinal chemistry, radiochemistry, and material chemistry structure the institute. ICN has created five start‐up companies and includes a technological platform. The ICN is central part of the university and contributes to the advancement in chemical sciences as evidenced by both fundamental research and active contributions to local partnerships.
Redox‐Active Hydrocarbons: Isolation and Structural Determination of Cationic States toward Advanced Response Systems
Authors: Harimoto Takashi , Ishigaki Yusuke
Published: March 2022

Organic chemistry has developed rapidly as a carbon‐based science. Particularly, hydrocarbons with aromatic rings have attracted much attention as molecular materials for use in organic electronics. In principle, aromatic species can be constructed if carbon and hydrogen atoms are available. Therefore, revealing the nature of pure hydrocarbons with an (anti)aromatic nature should pave the way for the development of as yet unexplored organic materials. In this Review, we focus on pure hydrocarbons composed of only carbon and hydrogen atoms, and present recent studies on their intrinsic electrochemical and spectroscopic properties and structural characterization of their cationic states. We also address more sophisticated hydrocarbon‐based response systems that are capable of modulating their properties in response to external stimuli such as light, heat, and electric potential.
Model predictive control of solar photovoltaic‐based microgrid with composite energy storage
Authors: Majji Ravi Kumar , Prakash Mishra Jyoti , Dongre Ashish A.
Published: March 2022

The renewable energy (e.g., solar photovoltaic)‐based grid‐connected microgrid (MG) with composite energy storage system (CESS) is feasible to ensure sustainable and quality power to the commercial and domestic load demands. Effective control systems provide the dynamic performance of such deployed MGs. This paper investigates the application of the finite control‐set model predictive controller (FCS‐MPC) for solar photovoltaic‐based grid‐connected MGs with composite energy storage. FCS‐MPC considers the discrete nature of interfacing (DC–AC and DC–DC) converters into the control algorithm to predict the optimal control command for reference current tracking. Compared to classical control approaches, FCS‐MPC provides a fast‐dynamic response, discards the modulation stage, and effectively handles the effects of dynamic source and load variations and nonlinear loads. The control system encapsulates a proportional–integral (PI) controller, low‐pass filter (LPF), power management algorithm (PMA) unit, and followed by the FCS‐MPC approach. The CESS unit consists of a battery and supercapacitor storage system. The efficacy of the FCS‐MPC approach is verified through the MATLAB/Simulink results. Solar photovoltaic variation due to irradiance, utility grid availability, electricity pricing, and dynamic load variations are considered in the implementation. Furthermore, real‐time simulation of the proposed method is validated using OPAL‐RT OP4510 real‐time simulator.
The origin of boulders in the Neoproterozoic of Eastern Sayan Ranges, south‐west Siberia: Glacial transport versus winnowed concretions
Authors: Aleksandrov Dmitrii
Published: March 2022

The Cryogenian geological record of Siberia is scarce and ambiguous. Late Neoproterozoic strata of presumed glaciogenic origin of the Marnya Formation, Oselok Group cropping out along the Uda River in the Eastern Sayan Ranges, south‐western Siberia has received considerable attention due to the presence of at least three distinctive diamictite units. The lower diamictite unit (Karapchetui Member) is in subvertical contact (previously interpreted as a glacial valley) with stratigraphically older strata of the Tagul and Ipsit formations of the Karagas Group, and is represented by a wedge‐shaped unit of breccia that hosts numerous ellipsoidal sandstone bodies (previously thought to be boulders). The boulders are here reinterpreted as early diagenetic quartz and feldspar‐cemented sandstone concretions exhumed and redeposited from the Ipsit Formation when the latter was still uncemented and easily erodible. Tectonic compression, reverse faulting and localised continuous syndepositional uplift led to exhumation of the concretions, whereas subsequent extension, reactivation of the fault and ‘negative inversion’ of the basin produced accommodation space for redeposition of the exhumed concretions. In the process of redeposition, exfoliating concretions produced abundant debris that provided clasts for the breccia deposit. The Karapchetui diamictite, therefore, can serve as a sedimentary archive of late Neoproterozoic tectonic activity at the south‐western margin of the Siberian Craton.
Tentative identification of in vitro metabolites of O‐acetylpsilocin (psilacetin, 4‐AcO‐DMT) by UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap MS
Authors: Zhai Wenya , Li Le , Zhao Junbo , Xiang Ping , Liu Mengxi , Shi Yan , Dang Yonghui
Published: March 2022

4‐Acetoxy‐N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (4‐AcO‐DMT, psilacetin, O‐acetylpsilocin) is a synthetic tryptamine with psychedelic properties. Psilacetin may also act as precursor drug of psilocin, similar to psilocybin, but little is known about its metabolism. In this study, the phase I and phase II in vitro metabolism of 4‐AcO‐DMT was investigated with pooled human liver microsomes, and the reaction mixture was analyzed using liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/electrostatic field orbitrap mass spectrometry. Fifteen metabolites were formed after incubation of pooled human liver microsomes with 4‐AcO‐DMT (12 phase I metabolites and 3 phase II metabolites). The proposed metabolite structures were based on accurate mass analysis and MS/MS fragmentation patterns. The biotransformations included hydrolysis, hydroxylation, N‐demethylation, oxidation, and conjugation with glucuronic acid. The hydrolysis metabolite was the most abundant compound. For the development of new methods for the identification of 4‐AcO‐DMT consumption, the beta‐hydroxylation metabolite of 4‐AcO‐DMT (M2‐1) is recommended as a biomarker. The data reported in this work might be applicable to metabolic transformation of 4‐AcO‐DMT in vivo and also forensically helpful.
The effect of habitat and human disturbance on the spatiotemporal activity of two urban carnivores: The results of an intensive camera trap study
Authors: Lovell Connor , Li Shiya , Turner Jessica , Carbone Chris
Published: March 2022

With rising urbanization, the presence of urban wildlife is becoming more common, increasing the need for wildlife‐friendly spaces in urban planning. Despite this, understanding is limited to how wildlife exploits urban environments and interacts with human populations, and this is vital to our ability to manage and conserve wildlife in urban habitats. Here, we investigate how two urban mammal species, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the European badger (Meles meles), exploit urban environments. Using intensive camera trap surveys, we assessed how habitat and human disturbance influenced the spatiotemporal activity of these species across south‐west London. Firstly, we found elevated activity levels of both species at boundaries and within built‐up areas, suggesting movement paths follow anthropogenic features. However, badgers were most active in woodland, indicating the importance of high cover habitats suitable for setts and foraging. Secondly, we found badger activity levels were negatively affected by human activity, whilst foxes were unaffected. Further investigation suggested foxes may adapt their activity patterns to avoid human disturbance, with badger activity patterns less plastic. Whilst the results of this study are useful for both the conservation and management of urban wildlife populations, these results also show potential factors which either facilitate or limit wildlife from fully exploiting urban environments.
The role of oxygen and electron donors in indole biodegradation and mineralization
Authors: Li Xian , Shan Shunan
Published: March 2022

Indole is a recalcitrant compound whose aerobic biodegradation is triggered by a mono‐oxygenation process. Generally, the mono‐oxygenation process involves intracellular electron carriers and molecular oxygen as co‐substrates; the increase of concentrations for either one can accelerate the biotransformation of refractory substances. In this study, the initial biotransformation of indole proved to be a special mono‐oxygenation reaction, neither endogenous nor exogenous electron donors have influences on indole biodegradation. However, oxygen plays a significant role in indole mono‐oxygenation. Higher dissolved oxygen led to a faster rate of indole biodegradation. As the product of indole mono‐oxygenation, unstable indoxyl indirectly turned out to exist by its tautomer 2‐oxindole. Intermediates like isatin, N‐formylanthranilic acid, and anthranilic acid were confirmed. In addition, coupling biodegradation with UV photolysis accelerated indole mineralization, and longer photolysis time gave faster TOC removal. This is because the supplement of endogenous electron donors by photolysis could enhance the catabolism of isatin and anthranilic acid, thus promoting indole mineralization. The biodegradation of these two intermediates was further verified to be initiated by donor‐requiring steps, so the photolytic products which generated labile electron donors could accelerate their oxygenations. This study provides valuable information on further controlling the process of aerobic biodegradation for indole.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes after new‐onset seizure among Zambian children with HIV during the antiretroviral therapy era
Authors: Ravishankar Mathura , Dallah Ifunanya , Mathews Manoj , Bositis Christopher M. , Mwenechanya Musaku , Kalungwana‐Mambwe Lisa , Bearden David , Navis Allison , Elafros Melissa A. , Gelbard Harris , Theodore William H. , Koralnik Igor J. , Okulicz Jason F. , Johnson Brent A. , Belessiotis Clara , Ciccone Ornella , Thornton Natalie , Tsuboyama Melissa , Siddiqi Omar K. , Potchen Michael J. , Sikazwe Izukanji , Birbeck Gretchen L.
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study describes clinical profiles including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease history and seizure etiology among children living with HIV presenting with new‐onset seizure during the era of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Zambia. 30‐day mortality and cause of death are also reported.

Methods

Children living with HIV (CLWHIV) with new‐onset seizures were prospectively evaluated at one large urban teaching hospital and two non‐urban healthcare facilities. Interviews with family members, review of medical records, and where needed, verbal autopsies were undertaken. Two clinicians who were not responsible for the patients' care independently reviewed all records and assigned seizure etiology and cause of death with adjudication as needed.

Results

From April 2016 to June 2019, 73 children (49 urban, 24 rural) were identified. Median age was 6 years (IQR 2.2‐10.0) and 39 (53%) were male children. Seizures were focal in 36 (49%) and were often severe, with 37% presenting with multiple recurrent seizures in the 24 hours before admission or in status epilepticus. Although 36 (49%) were on ART at enrollment, only 7 of 36 (19%) were virally suppressed. Seizure etiologies were infectious in over half (54%), with HIV encephalitis, bacterial meningitis, and tuberculous meningitis being the most common. Metabolic causes (19%) included renal failure and hypoglycemia. Structural lesions identified on imaging accounted for 10% of etiologies and included stroke and non‐accidental trauma. No etiology could be identified in 12 (16%) children, most of whom died before the completion of clinical investigations. Twenty‐two (30%) children died within 30 days of the index seizure.

Significance

Despite widespread ART roll out in Zambia, new‐onset seizure in CLWHIV occurs in the setting of advanced, active HIV disease. Seizure severity/burden is high as is early mortality. Enhanced programs to assure early ART initiation, improve adherence, and address ART failure are needed to reduce the burden of neurological injury and premature death in CLWHIV.
Colloidal polypyrrole as binder for silicon anode in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Avcı Yayla Işık İpek , Yuca Neslihan , Sezer Esma , Ustamehmetoğlu Belkıs
Published: March 2022

Silicon (Si)‐based anodes have limited application in lithium ion batteries (LIBs) due to the loss of contact with current collector because of large volume change during lithiation and delithiation processes. In this study, pyrrole (Py) was polymerized chemically by cerium ammonium nitrate (CAN) and conductive colloidal polypyrrole (Col‐PPy) was obtained in one step in N,N′‐dimethylformamide (DMF). To overcome problems during the volume change, Col‐PPy was then used as polymeric binder with Si nanoparticle (SiNP) in Si‐anode and it called as “Col‐PPy/SiNP.” In order to improve the cyclability and capacity of Si‐anodes, Col‐PPy solution was used also together with polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). These Si‐anodes were further analyzed with cycle tests and combined cycle tests at different rates (C‐rate) in half cells and scanning electron microscopy images of electrodes were taken before and after cycling. All results suggested that as an anode for LIB, Col‐PPy/SiNP exhibited high reversible capacity (2617 mAh/g at C/10 [0.42 A/g]) and good cycling performance (reversible capacity of 1400 mAh/g after 189 cycles at C/3 [1.4 A/g]).
Factors Considered in Graduate School Decision‐Making: Implications for Graduate School Application and Acceptance
Authors: Cho‐Baker Sugene , Kell Harrison J. , Fishtein Daniel
Published: March 2022

The career gains of obtaining a graduate degree are well established, but those from lower socioeconomic status (SES) and underrepresented demographic backgrounds have persistently been disadvantaged in earning those degrees. We aim to contribute to research on enhancing access, diversity, and equity to graduate education by providing insights into what motivates individuals to pursue a graduate education across demographic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Using survey data collected from GRE® test takers at two time points and exploratory structural equation modeling, we explore the factors that individuals consider to be important for pursuing graduate education and selecting graduate programs, along with subsequent application and acceptance outcomes. We identified three factors considered in deciding to pursue graduate school and six factors considered in selecting graduate school programs. Those who aimed to apply to graduate school for professional development considered an extensive set of factors in selecting programs. The factors considered varied by gender, ethnicity/race, and SES. These factors further varied in the extent to which they predicted graduate school application and acceptance outcomes.
Analytical determination of compounds released during pyrolysis, smoldering, and combustion experiments with insulation materials from renewable resources
Authors: Wichmann Hubertus , Kolb Marit , Bulutcu Deniz , Kolb Torsten , Zehfuß Jochen
Published: March 2022

Obviously, the use of insulation materials from renewable resources in buildings could provide benefits regarding environmental protection and sustainable management. Nevertheless, their market share in Germany is estimated to be about 7% because of a partial lack of knowledge about their properties, and therefore, of construction certifications. This work was intended to close a knowledge gap concerning emissions during pyrolysis, smoldering, and combustion of commercial insulating materials made from wood, cellulose, meadow grass, hemp, jute, cork, and seaweed as well as polystyrene for comparison reasons. Laboratory‐scale experiments were conducted and the measurement of thermal decomposition products was done with gas chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). It was realized that almost all the products could be assigned to the following eight substance classes: carbohydrates, aldehydes/ketones, carbonic acids/esters, substituted phenols, furans, aliphatic hydrocarbons, substituted benzenes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Substance spectra were generated that showed certain conformities, especially between the insulating materials made from wood, cellulose, and meadow grass as well as hemp and jute. Comparisons of the sum of peak areas in the GC/MS‐chromatograms provided indications of the relative extent of thermal decomposition product emissions. Calculations according to (∑peak areas renewable material)/(∑peak areas polystyrene) revealed factors between 0.18 (wood, cork) and 0.028 (meadow grass). In the thermal emissions, defined hazardous substances or substance groups were frequently measured. These were included in a toxicity evaluation by which, inter alia, advantages of the natural products compared to polystyrene could be demonstrated.
A novel 12‐hour versus 24‐hour magnesium sulfate regimen in the management of eclampsia and preeclampsia in Ghana (MOPEP Study): A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Beyuo Titus K. , Lawrence Emma R. , Kobernik Emily K. , Oppong Samuel A.
Published: March 2022

Objective

We compared the efficacy of a 12‐h versus 24‐h regimen of intramuscular magnesium sulfate in the management of eclampsia and preeclampsia.

Methods

This is an open‐labeled parallel randomized controlled trial conducted in Accra, Ghana from November 2018 to November 2020. Participants were adult pregnant women admitted to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) with a diagnosis of antepartum, intrapartum, or postpartum eclampsia or preeclampsia with severe features, having received no more than a loading dose of magnesium sulfate prior to admission at KBTH. Participants in the standard 24‐h group received a loading dose of magnesium sulfate 4 g intravenous and 10 g intramuscular (5 g in each buttock) followed by six, 5 g intramuscular maintenance doses over 24 h. Participants in the 12‐h intervention group received the same loading dose followed by three, 5 g intramuscular maintenance doses over 12 h. The primary outcome was occurrence of seizure after completion of the assigned magnesium sulfate regimen. Secondary outcomes were magnesium sulfate toxicity, magnesium sulfate side effects, maternal outcomes (mode of delivery, duration of inpatient admission, duration of urethral catheterization), maternal complications (pulmonary edema, acute kidney injury, intensive care unit admission, death), and neonatal outcomes.

Results

Among 1176 total participants, we found no difference in occurrence of seizure after completion of the assigned regimen in the 24‐h group (n = 5, 0.9%) versus the 12‐h group (n = 2, 0.3%), P = 0.29; RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.08, 2.04), or in occurrence of seizure any time after enrollment (n = 9, 1.5% vs. n = 5, 0.9%, P = 0.28, RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.19–1.64). Participants in the 12‐h group had a shorter duration of inpatient admission (9.4 ± 8.8 vs. 7.7 ± 6.5 days, P = 0.0009) and urethral catheterization (2.1 ± 1.0 vs. 1.9 ± 1.3 days, P < 0.0001). Rates of side effects from magnesium sulfate were lower in the 12‐h group: pain at the injection site (94.8% (n = 548) vs. 91.5% (n = 540), P = 0.03), inflammation (62.2% (n = 358) vs. 40.0% (n = 237), P < 0.0001), and bleeding or bruising at the injection site (25.1% (n = 144) vs. 14.4% (n = 85), P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Compared with 24 h, 12 h of intramuscular magnesium sulfate showed similar rates of seizures, with fewer side effects and shorter inpatient admission.

Trial Registration

Prospective registration was with Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR201811515303983): https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=4690.
Influence of Renal Function on Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, and Safety of a Single Dose of Romosozumab
Authors: Hsu Cheng‐Pang , Maddox Judy , Block Geoffrey , Bartley Yessenia , Yu Zhigang
Published: March 2022

We evaluated the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of a single subcutaneous dose of romosozumab 210 mg, a monoclonal antibody against sclerostin, in an open‐label, parallel‐group study in participants with severe (stage 4) renal impairment (RI; n = 8) or end‐stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis (ESRD‐RH; n = 8), or healthy participants with normal renal function (n = 8). Compared with the group with normal renal function, the mean romosozumab exposure was 31% and 43% higher as measured by maximum observed serum concentration and area under the concentration‐time curve, respectively, in the severe RI group and similar to those in the ESRD‐RH group. For all 3 groups, the maximum mean percent increase in procollagen type 1 N terminal propeptide and decrease in serum C‐telopeptide levels from baseline were observed on day 15. Changes in procollagen type 1 N terminal propeptide and serum C‐telopeptide were of similar patterns in all 3 groups. The single dose of romosozumab 210 mg was well tolerated. Adverse events (AEs) were reported for 13 patients (7 patients with severe RI and 6 with ESRD‐RH), with no deaths, AEs, or serious AEs leading to withdrawal. The incidence of subjects with postbaseline transient decreases in serum calcium (severe RI, n = 1; ESRD‐RH, n = 5) and increases in intact parathyroid hormone (severe RI, n = 7; ESRD‐RH, n = 7; healthy, n = 3) were greater in severe RI and ESRD‐RH groups than in the healthy group. All reported events of hypocalcemia (severe RI, n = 1; ESRD‐RH, n = 4) were asymptomatic. These results support the use of romosozumab without dose adjustment in patients with severe RI or ESRD‐RH.