bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive factors of occult cervical lymph node metastasis in tongue cancer
Authors: Nguyen Khoi A. , Le Khanh Quoc
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Cervical lymph node metastasis is the most important prognostic factor in tongue carcinoma. Prophylactic neck dissection improves patient survival, but there are negative impacts on quality of life; consequently, we investigated the predictive factors of occult neck metastasis.

Objectives

First, we wanted to identify the rate of occult nodal metastases in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tongue who had been diagnosed with clinically negative lymph nodes. Second, we explored possible factors that could predict cervical lymph node metastasis.

Methods

The present study was observational and included 62 patients with clinically node‐negative (cN0) oral tongue SCC between September 2019 and December 2020. Clinical presentation, radiological characteristics (tumor size, depth of invasion [DOI], neck lymph node), and pathology (histological grade, DOI, lymphovascular space invasion [LSVI], perineural invasion [PNI], worst patterns of invasion [WPOI‐5], and number of metastasis nodes) were analyzed.

Results

The rate of occult metastasis was 24.2%. Multivariate analysis indicated WPOI‐5 was an independent prognostic factor. Clinical and histological parameters such as DOI on computerized tomography (CT) (> 7 mm)and DOI on pathology (> 7 mm) showed a significant correlation with the risk of lymph node metastasis but were not strong enough to be independent prognostic factors. The DOI values measured on CT showed a strong correlation with the DOI values on pathology (correlation coefficient = 0.788).

Conclusion

Patients with positive WPOI‐5, CT‐DOI, and pathological DOI > 7 mm were at high risk of developing cervical lymph node metastasis. We suggest prophylactic neck dissection for these patients.
Protecting great apes from disease: Compliance with measures to reduce anthroponotic disease transmission
Authors: Nuno Ana , Chesney Chloe , Wellbelove Maia , Bersacola Elena , Kalema‐Zikusoka Gladys , Leendertz Fabian , Webber Amanda D. , Hockings Kimberley J.
Published: September 2022

The emergence of infectious diseases, such as COVID‐19, impacts livelihood strategies and conservation tools reliant on human‐wildlife interactions, such as wildlife‐based tourism and research. This is particularly relevant to great ape conservation, as humans and great apes are susceptible to being infected by similar pathogens.

Evidence‐based strategies are required to prevent infectious disease transmission to great apes and people involved in, or living close to, tourism sites. The development of disease‐safe recommendations and their effective operationalisation require an understanding of what affects visitor compliance.

Based on an international sample of past (N = 420) and potential future visitors (N = 569) to wild great ape tourism sites in Africa, we used an online questionnaire to characterise visitors' practices, assess expectations (e.g. about proximity to great apes) and identify key factors related to potential compliance with disease mitigation measures. This was implemented adapting a framework from health literature (the Health Belief Model; HBM), particularly focused on reducing COVID‐19 transmission at an early stage of the pandemic.

Visitors expressed less willingness to being vaccinated against COVID‐19 (which, at the time our survey was conducted, had only just started being administered to very high‐risk groups), wearing a facemask during trekking (although willing when viewing the apes) and quarantine after international travel before visiting great apes. Region of nationality, expectations about the visitor experience and perceived effectiveness of specific measures were important factors explaining variation in potential compliance across multiple behaviours.

By gaining a better understanding of what fosters compliance with disease mitigation measures, we obtained insights that are essential for assessing feasibility, facilitating effective communication, and guiding implementation at great ape tourism sites with importance not only for COVID‐19 but also for other infectious diseases more broadly, particularly at early stages of future pandemics. While requiring adaptive management as situations evolve (e.g. vaccination becoming more widely accessible), these will contribute towards a more sustainable visitor experience that can effectively deliver positive outcomes for people and biodiversity.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Rapid self‐healing and adhesion nanocomposite physical hydrogels based on dynamic coordination bond
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Chang Minmin , Zhang Hui , Ren Junli
Published: September 2022

In this work, we developed a simple one‐pot strategy to prepare the self‐healing and adhesion nanocomposite hydrogel without crosslinking agent. The metal coordination bond between carboxyl group and Al3+ and the electrostatic interaction between carboxylate cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and quaternary ammonium xylan (QAX) had a positive influence on the mechanical strength of nanocomposite hydrogel, in which the maximum tensile strength and elongation at break of composite hydrogel were 31.1 kPa and 2971%, respectively. Meanwhile, the nanocomposite hydrogel exhibited rapid self‐healing properties, and the healing efficiency reached 95% within 2 h. In addition, the nanocomposite hydrogel possessed adhesion and could adhere to different materials. The hydrogel can detect the changes of human skin during the movement due to its ionic conductivity properties caused by addition of Al3+. We expect that this strategy may enrich the applications of biomass hydrogels in the field of wearable devices.
Thermal and mechanical characteristic investigation of the hybridization of basalt fiber with aramid fiber and carbon fiber
Authors: Karacor Berkay , Ozcanli Mustafa
Published: September 2022

Composite structures have become one of the most preferred materials in the automotive industry by being improved day by day with their high strength per weight performance as well as their lightness. Natural fiber reinforced composite structures have an important share among all composite forms with recent developments. In this study, composite products in which epoxy resin is the matrix element with different stacking orders were produced by vacuum assisted resin transfer method. Basalt fabric was hybridized with carbon fabric and aramid fabric and the effect of this hybridization on thermal properties, mechanical properties, and morphological effects were examined. The mechanical test results indicated the tensile strength of the basalt/carbon hybrid configuration composite structure gave %40.18 better results than the basalt/aramid hybrid configuration structure. In terms of microhardness, in basalt/carbon hybrid configuration %22.34 better results were obtained in comparison with basalt/aramid hybrid configuration. Moreover, thermal analysis results displayed hybrid samples increased the combustion initiation temperature compared to homogeneous samples. In addition, the dominance of carbon fabrics was observed in the determination of cold crystallization temperature in hybrid samples, while basalt materials were predominant in melting temperature. Results of the article displayed that the carbon fiber hybridization to basalt fabric will greatly improve the deformation resistance and heat resistance of the materials compared to the aramid fabric hybridization process.
Study of polycarbonate–polystyrene interfaces using scanning transmission electron microscopy spectrum imaging (STEM‐SI)
Authors: Pal Ruchi , Sikder Arun K , Saito Kei , Funston Alison M , Bellare Jayesh R
Published: September 2022

Polymer blends are important for both commercial utility and scientific understanding. The degree of interfacial mixing in polymer blends is important since it influences the blends' mechanical properties. Understanding bulk properties in multiphase polymeric materials requires knowledge of the interfacial properties of the materials. The characterization of the interface, in terms of its width and composition profile, provides insight about the bulk behaviour of the material. Chemical microscopy through electron energy‐loss spectroscopy (EELS) in a transmission electron microscope is gaining popularity to characterize narrow polymer–polymer interfaces. In this work, we show how scanning transmission electron microscopy spectrum imaging, a spatially resolved energy‐loss spectroscopy, can be employed to calculate the interfacial width in a pair of immiscible polymers, taking a polycarbonate–polystyrene (PC‐PS) bilayer as an example. By mapping peaks unique to each of the blend constituents at several points across the interface, we show how the interfacial profile concentrations can be determined. With this method we calculated the interfacial width in the PC‐PS bilayer sample to be approximately 32 nm, even utilizing low resolution spectrometers, which are more widely available. Using the technique described with higher resolution EELS instruments having a better signal‐to‐noise ratio, a higher spatial resolution can be achieved. Using EELS chemical fingerprints of polymers that have been developed earlier, the technique presented here has the potential for effective visualization and morphological measurements of phase‐differentiated polymer blends. This paper is an attempt to enable a new user to characterize polymer–polymer interfaces using chemical microscopy. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Proteomics reveals MRPL4 as a high‐risk factor and a potential diagnostic biomarker for prostate cancer
Authors: Fu Qihuan , Hong Ruixia , Zhou Hang , Li Ying , Liu Xiu , Gong Jiaqi , Wang Xiaoyang , Chen Jiajia , Ran Haiying , Wang Liting , Li Fang , Yuan Jiangbei
Published: September 2022

Through digital rectal examinations (DRE) and routine prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening, early prostate cancer (PC) treatment has become possible. However, PC is a complex and heterogeneous disease. In vivo, cancer cells can invade adjacent tissues and metastasize to other tissues resulting in hard cures. Therefore, the key to improving PC patients’ survival time is preventing cancer cells’ metastasis. We used mass spectrometry to profile primary PC in patients with versus without metastatic PC. We named these two groups of PC patients as high‐risk primary PC (n = 11) and low‐risk primary PC (n = 7), respectively. At the same time, patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, n = 6) were used as controls to explore the possible factors driving PC metastasis. Based on comprehensive mass spectrometry analysis and biological validation, we found significant upregulation of MRPL4 expression in high‐risk primary PC relative to low‐risk primary PC and BPH. Further, through research of the extensive clinical cohort data in the database, we discovered that MRPL4 could be a high‐risk factor for PC and serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker. The MRPL4 might be used as an auxiliary indicator for clinical status/stage of primary PC to predict patient survival time.
Pulmonary exacerbations, airway pathogens, and long‐term course of lung clearance index in children and young adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Hatziagorou Elpis , Avramidou Vasiliki , Gioulvanidou Maria , Talimtzi Persefoni , Kouroukli Eleana , Mantsiou Chrysanthi , Lialias Ioannis , Nousia Lemonia , Tsanakas John
Published: September 2022

Background

Pulmonary exacerbations (PEx), pathogens colonizing the respiratory tract, and patients' age are associated with progressive worsening of lung function among patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). However, the effect of these factors on longitudinal changes of Lung Clearance Index (LCI) remains unclear.

Aim

To assess the role of age, different types of bronchial infection, and PEx on LCI deterioration.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study assessing multiple‐breath washout (MBW) and spirometry changes among CF patients evaluated at quarterly outpatient clinic visits over 8 years. MBW and spirometry were performed at each visit, sputum samples and/or cough swabs were obtained for culture, whereas respiratory symptoms and clinical examination findings were recorded. Patients who had ≥5 serial MBW measurements, one of which coincided with a pulmonary exacerbation, were reviewed.

Results

Seventy‐six patients were included in the study: mean age of 10.61 years (range 1.75–23.75). A total of 1152 MBW tests and 1047 spirometry tests were performed. LCI was significantly higher among CF patients aged 11–15, 16–20, and over 20 years than those under 5 years of age; ΔLCI: 1.16 (confidence interval [CI] 0.43–1.90) and 3.25 (CI 2.33–4.17), respectively. Furthermore, LCI was significantly elevated in CF patients with positive cultures for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.52 LCI [CI −0.12 to 0.71]) and Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia (1.41 LCI [CI 0.61–2.21]). Moreover, increased values of LCI in CF patients were significantly associated with increased risk of PEx (odds ratio [OR] 1.19, CI [1.14–1.25], p < 0.001).

Conclusion

LCI demonstrates a progression of lung disease and corresponds to changes in bacterial infections and PEx among patients with CF. LCI may be a valuable marker for tracking disease deterioration and may have a role in the routine clinical care of patients with CF.
Microbiologic and virulence characteristics ofMoraxella catarrhalisisolates from Zambian children presenting with acute pneumonia
Authors: Nawa Mukena , Mwansa James , Mwaba John , Kaonga Patrick , Mukubesa Andrew N. , Simuyandi Michelo , Chisenga Caroline C. , Alabi Peter , Mwananyanda Lawrence , Thea Donald M. , Chilengi Roma , Kwenda Geoffrey
Published: September 2022

Background

Moraxella catarrhalisis one of the bacterial pathogens associated with childhood pneumonia, but its clinical importance is not clearly defined.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the microbiologic and virulence characteristics ofM. catarrhalisisolates obtained from children with pneumonia in Lusaka, Zambia.

Methods

This retrospective, cross‐sectional study analyzed 91 M. catarrhalisisolates from induced sputum samples of children less than 5 years of age with pneumonia enrolled in the Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health study in Lusaka, Zambia between 2011 and 2014. Bacteria identification and virulence genes detection were performed by PCR and DNA sequencing, while antimicrobial susceptibility testing was determined by the Kirby–Bauer method.

Results

All theM. catarrhalisisolates were obtained from good‐quality sputum samples and were the predominant bacteria. These isolates harbored virulence genescopB(100%),ompE(69.2%),ompCD(71.4%),uspA1(92.3%), anduspA2(69.2%) and were all β‐lactamase producers. They showed resistance to ampicillin (100%), amoxicillin (100%), trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (92.3%), ciprofloxacin (46.2%), chloramphenicol (45.1%), erythromycin (36.3%), tetracycline (25.3%), cefuroxime (11.0%), and amoxicillin‐clavulanate (2.2%), with 78.0% displaying multi‐drug resistant phenotype but all susceptible to imipenem (100%).

Conclusion

This study showed thatM. catarrhalisisolates were the predominant or only bacterial isolates from the sputum samples analyzed. The findings provide supportive evidence for the pathogenic potential role of this bacterium in pediatric pneumonia. High multidrug resistance was also observed amongst the isolates, which can result in affected patients not responding to standard treatment, leading to prolonged illness, increased healthcare costs, and risk of death.
In situ measurement of the fragmentation behavior of Al/PTFE reactive materials subjected to explosive loading, Part 1: Fragment size measurements
Authors: Youngblood Stewart H. , Palmer Sean , Avalos Violante David A. , Kimberley Jamie , Hargather Michael J.
Published: September 2022

High‐speed optical diagnostics and image analysis methods are applied here to measure the size, velocity, and trajectory of Al/PTFE fragments produced by explosively loading cylindrical specimens. The imaging utilizes high‐speed digital cameras and focused shadowgraphy to capture time‐resolved images of the accelerated fragment field. In Part 1, high‐fidelity fragment size distributions are measured from visual timelines assembled from the high‐speed images through a phase correlation stitching process. The in situ measurements are compared to fragment size distributions measured from images of fragments recovered using a traditional snow soft catch. The two methods show similar size distributions, with the in situ measurement capturing essentially all of the fragment mass whereas the soft catch recovered less than 70 % of the initial sample mass. The fragment mass‐size distributions were fit to a fragmentation model. The model fit showed consistency across tests and a value of the scaling parameter approximately equal to the proposed universal value. In Part 2, a two‐dimensional Kalman filter‐based automated tracking methodology is presented that is used to determine trajectories and velocities of fragments greater than 1 mm. The measured velocities are compared to velocity estimates from the bulk fragment displacement calculated using a phase correlation routine. Bivariate histograms describing the diameter‐velocity variations are presented for the explosive fragmentation and acceleration of these Al/PTFE samples.
Measured efficacy, bioaccumulation, and leaching of a transfluthrin‐based insecticidal paint: a case study with a nuisance, nonbiting aquatic insect
Authors: Cavallaro Michael C. , Sanders Corey J. , Hladik Michelle L.
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Pest management professionals will require a diverse, adaptive abatement toolbox to combat advanced challenges from disease vector and nuisance insect populations. Designed for post‐application longevity, insecticidal paints offer extended residual effects on targeted insect pest populations; a measured understanding of active ingredient bioavailability over time is valuable to fully assess treatment efficacy and potential environmental risks. This study was initiated because a nuisance net‐spinning caddisfly, Smicridea fasciatella, is lowering the quality of life for riverfront residents at the type locality.

RESULTS

We tested the efficacy and potential mobility of a transfluthrin‐based paint (a.i. 0.50%), comparing the impacts of UV exposure and substrate texture over time. Direct UV exposure decreased efficacy (β ± S.E. = 0.008 ± 0.001, P < 0.001) and a coarse texture maintained greater efficacy (β ± S.E. = −3.7 ± 1.3, P = 0.004) over time. Notably, the coarse texture + indirect UV treatment maintained 100% mortality after 240 days. UV exposure and substrate texture did not have a significant impact on leachate concentrations over time, and successive immersion tests indicated a two‐phase emission pattern. Bioaccumulation increased with time on the cuticle of dead adult S. fasciatella; after 24 h of direct exposure the concentration of transfluthrin was 25.3 ± 0.9 ng/caddisfly with a maximum concentration of 345 ng/caddisfly after 7 days.

CONCLUSION

Our predictions were validated with measured, time‐dependent impacts on efficacy, leachability, and bioaccumulation. Because of the mobility of active ingredient in the environment, insecticidal paints merit low‐impact protocols to improve public health outcomes and environmental safety. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mechanism of enhanced sensitivity of mutated β‐adrenergic‐like octopamine receptor to amitraz in honeybee Apis mellifera: An insight from MD simulations
Authors: Li Mengrong , Bao Yiqiong , Xu Ran , Zhang Xiaoxiao , La Honggui , Guo Jingjing
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Amitraz is one of the critical acaricides/insecticides for effective control of pest infestation of Varroa destructor mite, a devastating parasite of Apis mellifera, because of its low toxicity to honeybees. Previous assays verified that a typical G protein‐coupled receptor, β‐adrenergic‐like octopamine receptor (Octβ2R), is the unique target of amitraz, but the honeybee Octβ2R resists to amitraz. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of the enhanced sensitivity or toxicity of amitraz to mutated honeybee Octβ2RE208V/I335T/I350V is not fully understood. Here, molecular dynamics simulations are employed to explore the implied mechanism of the enhanced sensitivity to amitraz in mutant honeybee Octβ2R.

RESULTS

We found that amitraz binding stabilized the structure of Octβ2R, particularly the intracellular loop 3 associated with the Octβ2R signaling. Then, it was further demonstrated that both mutations and ligand binding resulted in a more rigid and compact amitraz binding site, as well as the outward movement of the transmembrane helix 6, which was a prerequisite for G protein coupling and activation. Moreover, mutations were found to promote the binding between Octβ2R and amitraz. Finally, community analysis illuminated that mutations and amitraz strengthened the residue–residue communication within the transmembrane domain, which might facilitate the allosteric signal propagation and activation of Octβ2R.

CONCLUSION

Our results unveiled structural determinants of improved sensitivity in the Octβ2R‐amitraz complex and may contribute to further structure‐based drug design for safer and less toxic selective insecticides. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Transcriptomics and metabolomics reveal the role of CYP1A2 in psoralen/isopsoralen‐induced metabolic activation and hepatotoxicity
Authors: Zhang Cai , Fan Song , Zhao Jin‐Quan , Jiang Yan , Sun Jia‐Xing , Li Hui‐Jun
Published: September 2022

Psoralen and isopsoralen are the pharmacologically important but hepatotoxic components in Psoraleae Fructus. The purpose of this study was to reveal the underlying mechanism of psoralen/isopsoralen‐induced hepatotoxicity. Initially, we applied integrated analyses of transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles in mice treated with psoralen and isopsoralen, highlighting the xenobiotic metabolism by cytochromes P450 as a potential pathway. Then, with verifications of expression levels by qRT‐PCR and western blot, affinities by molecular docking, and metabolic contributions by recombinant human CYP450 and mouse liver microsomes, CYP1A2 was screened out as the key metabolic enzyme. Afterwards, CYP1A2 induction and inhibition models in HepG2 cells and mice were established to verify the role of CYP1A2, demonstrating that induction of CYP1A2 aggravated the hepatotoxicity, and conversely inhibition alleviated the hepatotoxic effects. Additionally, we detected glutathione adducts with reactive intermediates of psoralen and isopsoralen generated by CYP1A2 metabolism in biosystems of recombinant human CYP1A2 and mouse liver microsomes, CYP1A2‐overexpressed HepG2 cells, mice livers and the chemical reaction system using UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS. Ultimately, the high‐content screening presented the cellular oxidative stress and relevant hepatotoxicity due to glutathione depletion by reactive intermediates. In brief, our findings illustrated that CYP1A2‐mediated metabolic activation is responsible for the psoralen/isopsoralen‐induced hepatotoxicity.
Generalization of time‐varying fast initial response for exponentially weighted moving average control charts
Authors: Ajibade Ganiyu Ayodele , Riaz Muhammad , Mohammed Alshahrani , Kuboye John Olusola , Alih Ekele , Ajadi Jimoh Olawale
Published: September 2022

For monitoring processes, exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control charts have been found to be very powerful and reliable tools. Meanwhile, some processes require great attention at the startup to ascertain that the processes are free from any disturbances. In this article, we propose a generalized time‐varying fast initial response for EWMA control charts. This chart is a special case of the previously proposed time‐varying EWMA control chart. The proposed scheme is highly sensitive in detecting small shifts in a given process, particularly at the process startup. The proposed chart is compared with its counterparts using the zero state average run length. We also show an application of the proposed EWMA chart to a real‐life situation.
Hemothorax as a complication of transbronchial lung cryobiopsy
Authors: Michimata Haruhiko , Sumi Toshiyuki , Keira Yoshiko , Nagayama Daiki , Koshino Yuta , Watanabe Hiroki , Yamada Yuichi , Tanaka Yusuke , Chiba Hirofumi
Published: September 2022

Key message

There are more complications in transbronchial lung cryobiopsy than in a conventional transbronchial lung biopsy. Respiratory endoscopists should be aware of the potential complications, including rare complications such as hemothorax.
Can energy productivity gains harness the carbon dioxide‐inhibiting agenda of the Next 11 countries? Implications for achieving sustainable development
Authors: Murshed Muntasir , Khan Uzma , Khan Aarif Mohammad , Ozturk Ilhan
Published: September 2022

The Next 11 countries are among the world's most rapidy emerging economies that are poised to becoming key drivers of the global economy. Nonetheless, despite progressing economically, these nations have experienced persistent deterioration in their environmental conditions. Hence, this study specifically investigates whether energy productivity gains, controlling for financial inclusion, renewable energy use, economic growth, international trade, and urbanization, can harness the carbon dioxide emissions (CO2E)‐inhibiting objectives of the Next 11 countries. The empirical analysis, using annual data spanning from 2004 to 2020, involves the application of advanced econometric tools that are robust to handling the cross‐sectional dependency and slope heterogeneity‐related issues. The results from the econometric analysis indicate that although energy productivity gains and greater renewable energy consumption reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, making the financial system more inclusive tends to amplify the emission levels. More importantly, energy productivity gains and financial inclusion are observed to jointly reduce the CO2E figures of the Next 11 countries. Thus, it can be said that making more productive use of energy can, to some extent, neutralize the adverse environmenntal impacts of financial inclusion. Additionally, higher economic growth, greater international trade participation, and urbanization are evidenced to boost CO2E in these countries while higher renewable energy use is observed to curb the emission levels. Furthermore, heterogeneous country‐specific outcomes are also witnessed. In particular, energy productivity improvement is seen to curb CO2E in eight of these nations while a simultaneous rise in the levels of energy productivity and financial inclusion is found to jointly mitigate and boost CO2E in 55% and 18% of the Next 11 nations, respectively. Hence, in line with these key findings, a set of critically important environmental development‐related policies are suggested.
Thermal, Mechanical and Optical Studies of Degradable Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)/Carboxymethyl Cellulose/Water Hyacinth Fiber Thin Films
Authors: Rani Seema , Gulati Kapil , Raghav Neera , Arora Sanjiv
Published: September 2022

The focus of the present study has been to interpret thermal, mechanical, optical and bio‐degradation properties of water hyacinth fiber/carboxymethyl cellulose/poly(vinyl alcohol) composites. WHF/CMC−Na salt/PVA composites were prepared with different fiber loadings of 5 %, 7.5 %, 10 %, 12.5 % and 15 % by solution casting technique. Thermal degradation of the composites were studied at a heating rate of 10 °C min−1 in nitrogen atmosphere. Degradation activation energies were calculated by using single heating rate kinetic methods viz. Broido, Horowitz‐Metzger and Coats‐Redfern. Thermal stability of composites with WHF‐5 % incorporation is increased for both the degradation stages and is also supported from activation energy data. Degradation of composites was studied in soil and compost environment. WHF‐5 % composites showed highest degradation in soil environment. Tensile strength and Young's Modulus was also evaluated for the films. Based on thermal, mechanical, degradable and optical properties, different applications of the films have been worked out.
Temperature‐Modulated Selective Detection of Part‐per‐Trillion NO2 Using Platinum Nanocluster Sensitized 3D Metal Oxide Nanotube Arrays
Authors: Song Zhilong , Tang Wenying , Chen Zhesi , Wan Zhu'an , Chan Chak Lam Jonathan , Wang Chen , Ye Wenhao , Fan Zhiyong
Published: September 2022

Semiconductor chemiresistive gas sensors play critical roles in a smart and sustainable city where a safe and healthy environment is the foundation. However, the poor limits of detection and selectivity are the two bottleneck issues limiting their broad applications. Herein, a unique sensor design with a 3D tin oxide (SnO2) nanotube array as the sensing layer and platinum (Pt) nanocluster decoration as the catalytic layer, is demonstrated. The Pt/SnO2 sensor significantly enhances the sensitivity and selectivity of NO2 detection by strengthening the adsorption energy and lowering the activation energy toward NO2. It not only leads to ultrahigh sensitivity to NO2 with a record limit of detection of 107 parts per trillion, but also enables selective NO2 sensing while suppressing the responses to interfering gases. Furthermore, a wireless sensor system integrated with sensors, a microcontroller, and a Bluetooth unit is developed for the practical indoor and on‐road NO2 detection applications. The rational design of the sensors and their successful demonstration pave the way for future real‐time gas monitoring in smart home and smart city applications.
Multistage‐Responsive Gene Editing to Sensitize Ion‐Interference Enhanced Carbon Monoxide Gas Therapy
Authors: Li Yayao , Pan Yongchun , Chen Chao , Li Zekun , Du Shiyu , Luan Xiaowei , Gao Yanfeng , Han Xin , Song Yujun
Published: September 2022

As a promising therapeutic modality targeting cancer, gas therapy still faces critical challenges, especially in enhancing therapeutic efficacy and avoiding gas poisoning risks. Here, a pH/glutathione (GSH) dual stimuli‐responsive CRISPR/Cas9 gene‐editing nanoplatform combined with calcium‐enhanced CO gas therapy for precise anticancer therapy, is established. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), the fast biodegradation of the CaCO3 layer via pH‐induced hydrolyzation allows glucose oxidase (GOx) to catalyze glucose for H2O2 production, which further reacts with manganese carbonyl (MnCO) and achieves the precise release of CO gas. Simultaneously, in situ Ca2+ overload from CaCO3 degradation disturbs mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis, resulting in Ca2+‐driven reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and subsequent mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway activation. Subsequently, by GSH‐induced cleavage of a disulfide bond, the released Cas9/sgRNA (RNP) can achieve nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) gene ablation to sensitize gas therapy by interfering with ROS signaling. This therapeutic modality endows codelivery of CRISPR, ions, and gas with smart control features, which demonstrates great potential for future clinical applications in precise nanomedicine.
Assessment of parameters influencing the behavior of statically indeterminate reinforced concrete slabs and beams under fire conditions
Authors: Bischof Patrick , Morf Urias , Kaufmann Walter
Published: September 2022

This paper investigates the effect of material properties, boundary conditions, and related modeling and design uncertainties on the fire behavior of statically indeterminate reinforced concrete beams and slabs by means of a parametric study based on a comprehensive model. This model uses material properties specified by EN 1992‐1‐2, complemented by considerations concerning the biaxial compressive strength of concrete, strain hardening and limitations of the ultimate strain of reinforcement, as well as tension stiffening. The parametric study identifies and explains the most influential parameters governing the fire behavior of statically indeterminate reinforced concrete beams and slabs. The implementation and generalization of these parameters are evaluated and compared to current design rules in EN 1992‐1‐2 derived from the evaluation of experimental testing and real fire cases. Overall, the detailing rules given in EN 1992‐1‐2 are found to be reasonably safe, and they can be easily used for practical applications. Furthermore, the results of the study indicate that model predictions for the studied statically indeterminate systems are subject to considerable uncertainty because (i) information on the used material is possibly incomplete and (ii) the models given in design codes do not (or only insufficiently) cover all relevant aspects of the thermo‐mechanical behavior. Specifically, the concrete aggregate type with its corresponding thermal expansion, the strain hardening properties of the reinforcement and tension stiffening with its detrimental effect on the ductility of the tension chord may affect the rating across several standard fire resistance times of statically indeterminate reinforced concrete members subjected to bending.
Malignant catarrhal fever in cattle in Spain
Authors: Iván Mato , María Pérez , Gorka Aduriz , Pere Ordis , Javier Diéguez Fco.
Published: September 2022

We report a case of malignant catarrhal fever in cattle in a mixed herd (ovine/bovine). The case occurred in the Basque Country (north of Spain) in April 2021. The infection was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction in a calf that had developed signs consistent with the ‘head and eye’ form of the disease. Just before its appearance, a group of five calves born at the farm (including the affected one), aged between 8 and 12 months, were temporarily housed in a pen adjacent to the sheep shed, and separated by a metallic fence that allowed direct contact. In Spain, there are no data on the incidence of malignant catarrhal fever, as there is no active surveillance programme in place. Furthermore, the disease is uncommonly considered in differential diagnoses.
A device to collect passive, flow‐weighted water samples from surface runoff
Authors: Maris Jacob O. , Stewart Ryan D.
Published: September 2022

Obtaining water quality samples from surface runoff is essential for understanding erosion and pollutant transport processes. Existing water sampling devices are expensive, require installation of extensive infrastructure or power supplies, or have limited ability to collect flow‐weighted samples. We created an inexpensive, nonpowered, flow‐weighted water sampling device that can be incorporated into runoff quantification systems like the Upwelling Bernoulli Tube (UBeTube). Our device, called the Holey Sampler, consists of a standpipe with holes drilled at specific heights. Water enters the standpipe in proportion to the water flow rate through the UBeTube and is routed to an external collection bottle. We built and tested two versions of the Holey Sampler that sampled water at an approximate ratio of 1:250 of the runoff rate. The Standard Opening Holey Sampler (Standard‐OHS) configuration was made with 1.6‐mm‐diam. holes, whereas the Miniature Opening Holey Sampler (Mini‐OHS) configuration was designed to prevent oversampling at low outflows but required drill bit of smaller diameter (0.8‐mm). Laboratory and numerical experiments demonstrated that both configurations obtained accurate flow‐weighted runoff samples when incorporated into the UBeTube. Flow rates in the Mini‐OHS were better correlated with runoff rates under constant‐flow (R2 = .992 vs. .965 for the Standard‐OHS) and variable‐flow conditions (R2 = .996 vs. .954 for the Standard‐OHS). Further modification of the Holey Sampler could also allow flow‐weighted sampling of other runoff quantification devices like flumes and weirs.
Optimal gust wind energy capture using critical tracking frequency for wind turbines
Authors: Li Kai Ming , Chan Hosea , Chan Chun Man
Published: September 2022

Gusty wind in urban areas contains significant energy potential that can be harnessed, but the existing wind turbine rotor speed control systems based on continuous wind speed tracking have a noticeable response delay as compared to the duration of the common short gusts, inducing a significant deficit in harnessed excess energy content (EEC) from gusty wind. This work scrutinizes the energy content distribution among the gusty wind components and their differential impacts on the control response to identify factors to improve response timeliness. Cross‐correlation spectrum analysis between the wind turbine response and the local wind spectrum was used to identify the critical tracking frequency that can significantly reduce the average response delay of wind turbines in gusty wind conditions while maximizing the gust energy harvesting ability was developed and validated by various time‐domain simulation results. Combining the critical tracking frequency with the theoretical estimation of the EEC of a wind turbine, the expected EEC harnessing ability of a wind turbine can be estimated before installation. For the sample Savonius wind turbine in this work, the response delay of the wind turbine was shortened by 65%, leading to 25% more harnessed EEC from gusty wind.
Extensive Investigation of High‐Pressure Tungsten Dioxide β‐WO2
Authors: Ziegler Raimund , Reimann Maximilian K. , Lammer Nadine , Rendenbach Bettina , Johrendt Dirk , Pöttgen Rainer , Huppertz Hubert
Published: September 2022

Red single crystals of β‐WO2 were synthesized under high‐pressure/high‐temperature conditions of 13.1 GPa and 1693 K in a Walker‐type multianvil apparatus. β‐WO2 crystallizes in the space group Pnma (Z=12) with the lattice parameters a=9.7878(5), b=8.4669(4), c=4.7980(2) Å, and V=397.62(3) Å3. The structure consists exclusively of WO6 octahedra, forming a twinned distorted rutile type structure. Temperature dependent X‐ray powder diffraction measurements at normal pressure conditions revealed an irreversible phase transition from β‐WO2 to α‐WO2 between 1173 and 1223 K. Magnetic measurements showed weakly positive susceptibility values which increase to lower temperatures. This is caused by traces of paramagnetic impurities. DFT calculations predict β‐WO2 to be a semiconductor with an indirect band gap of about 0.6 eV.
‘Walking the talk’: Applying community‐based social marketing to a pilot food waste programme at Lincoln Park Zoo
Authors: Shoffstall Erin J. , Somor Julie L.
Published: September 2022

Zoos and aquariums are uniquely situated to encourage the adoption of pro‐environmental behaviours by the public at large. While the activation of conservation behaviours in a visitor base is necessary, there is an equally essential call to ‘walk the talk’ by aligning organizational missions and identity with internal practice. This study evaluated an adapted community‐based social marketing (CBSM) model to foster food waste‐related behaviour change in a unique audience of zoo staff and volunteers. This paper describes an innovative, real‐world example of how conservation institutions can modify conservation psychology theories and the CBSM framework for the practical application of mission‐aligned pro‐environmental behaviour change campaigns. While audience engagement fluctuated throughout the campaign, we observed an attitudinal and/or behavioural shift in our target audience as a result of the campaign, indicating some success in achieving positive outcomes. The implications of these findings are discussed and recommendations are made about how to sustain momentum and participation in campaigns, including the utility of a scale for engagement approaches relative to organizational capacity and resources available.
The Neighbours
Authors: Duff Andrew
Published: September 2022

The EU’s conventional enlargement policy has run its course. Yet the Union must prepare itself to take fuller responsibility for the wider neighbourhood. A new category of affiliate membership would suit both the Union’s western and eastern neighbours, allowing for an upgrade of all the current association agreements and privileged participation in the work of the EU institutions.
A Constitutional Moment
Authors: Duff Andrew
Published: September 2022

The EU is approaching another constitutional moment when important strides can be taken towards fulfilling its original federal promise. The Conference on the Future of Europe should be followed up by a small reflection group tasked with preparing options for a new convention. We examine the concepts of strategic autonomy and sovereignty in the contemporary context. The agenda of treaty change is summarised, with the aim of installing, by 2029, a capable and discernible federal government of the EU.
The Sensemaking Perspective
Authors: Nardon Luciara , Hari Amrita
Published: September 2022

Sensemaking—the process through which individuals and organizations give meaning to events or situations—is critical in qualified immigrants’ (QIs’) work integration. In this chapter, we introduce the sensemaking perspective and elaborate on the properties (grounded in identity construction, retrospective, enactive, social, ongoing, focused on and by extracted cues, and driven by plausibility) and levels of sensemaking (individual, interactional, organizational, and institutional) as it relates to the work integration of QIs. This chapter sets the foundation for the deeper exploration of sensemaking processes described in later chapters by providing a brief introduction to the processes and challenges present in each of the levels of sensemaking and their implications for QI work integration.
Higher spin JT gravity and a matrix model dual
Authors: Kruthoff Jorrit
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We propose a generalization of the Saad-Shenker-Stanford duality relating matrix models and JT gravity to the case in which the bulk includes higher spin fields. Using a PSL(N, ℝ) BF theory we compute the disk and generalization of the trumpet partition function in this theory. We then study higher genus corrections and show how this differs from the usual JT gravity calculations. In particular, the usual quotient by the mapping class group is not enough to ensure finite answers and so we propose to extend this group with additional elements that make the gluing integrals finite. These elements can be thought of as large higher spin diffeomorphisms. The cylinder contribution to the spectral form factor then behaves as TN−1 at late times T, signaling a deviation from conventional random matrix theory. To account for this deviation, we propose that the bulk theory is dual to a matrix model consisting of N − 1 commuting matrices associated to the N − 1 conserved higher spin charges.

We find further evidence for the existence of the additional mapping class group elements by interpreting the bulk gauge theory geometrically and employing the formalism developed by Gomis et al. in the nineties. This formalism introduces additional (auxiliary) boundary times so that each conserved charge generates translations in those new directions. This allows us to find an explicit description for the PSL(3, ℝ) Schwarzian theory for the disk and trumpet and view the additional mapping class group elements as ordinary Dehn twists, but in higher dimensions.
Universality aspects of quantum corrections to transverse momentum broadening in QCD media
Authors: Caucal Paul , Mehtar-Tani Yacine
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We study non-linear quantum corrections to transverse momentum broadening (TMB) of a fast parton propagating in dense QCD matter in the leading logarithmic approximation. These non-local corrections yield an anomalous super-diffusive behavior characterized by a heavy tailed distribution which is associated with Lévy random walks. Using a formal analogy with the physics of traveling waves, we show that at late times the transverse momentum distribution tends to a universal scaling regime. We derive analytic solutions in terms of an asymptotic expansion around the scaling limit for both fixed and running coupling. We note that our analytic approach yields a good agreement with the exact numerical solutions down to realistic values of medium length. Finally, we discuss the interplay between system size and energy dependence of the diffusion coefficient $$ \hat{q} $$

q
̂

and its connection with the gluon distribution function that is manifest at large transverse momentum transfer.
Aspects of AdS2 quantum gravity and the Karch-Randall braneworld
Authors: Geng Hao
Published: September 2022

Abstract

In this paper, we use the Karch-Randall braneworld to study theories of quantum gravity in two dimensional (nearly) anti-de Sitter space (AdS2). We focus on effective gravitational theories in the setup with two Karch-Randall branes embedded in an asymptotically AdS3 bulk forming a wedge. We find the appearance of two-dimensional Einstein-Hilbert gravity (or the Lorenzian version of the theory considered by Marolf and Maxfield) when the branes are rigid but the emergence of a class of dilaton gravity models parameterized by the tensions of the two branes when brane fluctuations are accounted for. A special case of our result is Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) gravity, which has been proven useful to address many important problems in quantum gravity. An important implication of our work is that these models have holographic duals as one-dimensional quantum mechanics systems. At the end, we discuss a puzzle regarding the energy spectrum and its resolution.
Teaching in radiation oncology: now and 2025—results of a focus group with medical students
Authors: Linde Philipp , Klein Marie , Lang Frauke , Wegen Simone , Petersen Cordula , Dapper Hendrik , Fan Jiaqi , Celik Eren , Marnitz Simone , Baues Christian
Published: September 2022

Purpose

In Germany, the new Licensing Regulations for Physicians 2025 (Ärztliche Approbationsordnung, ÄApprO) define a binding legal framework on the basis of which medical faculties modernize their curricula. Since 2015, the National Competence Based Learning Objectives Catalogue for Medicine 2.0 (Nationaler Kompetenzbasierter Lernzielkatalog 2.0., NKLM) formulates competencies and learning objectives to be achieved in the course of studies as curriculum orientation for the medical faculties. In addition, about 80% of the areas of a new core curriculum are to be made compulsory. A needs analysis in the target group of students has not yet taken place for the subject of radiation therapy (RT) or radiation oncology (RO). This study therefore surveys the experiences and requirements of students regarding medical education in RT.

Methods

Qualitative single-center study using a semistructured in-depth focus group with 11 medical students (20–26 years; 6 female, 5 male) was conducted. Brainstorming sessions were conducted in small groups and individually; oral contributions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Results were compared with the content of the future curriculum and reviewed for congruence with current expert recommendations of the German Society of Radiation Oncology (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Radioonkologie, DEGRO).

Results

The plans to develop a longitudinal and practice-oriented curriculum was positively received by students. Specifically, students wanted to introduce the basics of RT as an early link to practice in preclinical teaching units. The necessary acquisition of communicative skills should also be taught by lecturers in RO. Methodologically, regular digital survey tools for self-monitoring, discussion rooms, and problem-based learning were named. In the perception of students, the subject appears underrepresented in relation to its relevance in the multimodal therapy of oncological diseases.

Conclusion

Results of the needs analysis for the subject of RT are consistent with ÄApprO, NKLM, and DEGRO. Moreover, they complement them and should be considered in the curriculum development of Masterplan Medical Education 2020 (Masterplan Medizinstudium 2020). The results contribute to high-quality and target-group-oriented medical training in the subject of RT, increased visibility, and thus early bonding of future physicians to RO in Germany.