bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sickle cell disease in Grenada: Quality of life and barriers to care
Authors: Grygiel Alyssa , Ikolo Felicia , Stephen Raphielle , Bleasdille Dawnell , Robbins‐Furman Patricia , Nelson Beverly , Sobering Andrew K. , Elsea Sarah H.
Published: December 2020

Background

Grenada is a small, resource‐limited Caribbean country with a high incidence of sickle cell disease (SCD). Since little is known about the challenges facing individuals living with SCD in the West Indies, we sought to assess barriers to healthcare and the impact of SCD on quality of life in Grenada.

Methods

Both adults aged 18+ (n = 19) and caregivers of children aged 2–17 (n = 26) completed validated survey measures regarding barriers to care and quality of life, along with a genetics knowledge questionnaire. Caregivers also completed a caregiver burden scale. Survey scores were calculated, and responses were analyzed for an association between demographic variables.

Results

The Barriers to Care Questionnaire, in which lower scores indicate more barriers, revealed that both adults (mean = 69.9) and children (mean = 75.5) with SCD experienced reduced access to care. The Adult Sickle Cell Quality of Life Measurement Information System indicated increased depression and loneliness in adults, with the lowest scores in the Emotional subscale. However, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory answered by caregivers of children with SCD showed the lowest scores in the Physical Functioning subscale. Further analysis using the Caregiver Burden Scale‐Zarit Burden Interview revealed that 53.8% of caregivers of children with SCD indicated “little to no burden,” which may reflect a difference in cultural expectations of a caregiver between high‐income countries and Grenada. Finally, ~80% of respondents knew that SCD was a genetic condition; however, 61%–84% could not correctly indicate recurrence risks, demonstrating a need for additional education.

Conclusion

These data provide new insights regarding the experience of living with SCD in Grenada and support the need for further investigations into specific barriers to healthcare delivery, which could also improve education and well‐being for those affected by SCD in Grenada and in the broader Caribbean community.
Bidirectional beamforming with +1st harmonic in time‐modulated linear arrays using two switching sequences
Authors: Ma Yue , Miao Chen , Li Yue‐Hua , Wu Wen
Published: December 2020

In this study, a novel scheme is proposed for bidirectional beamforming using time‐modulated linear arrays (TMLAs). A beamforming method with a time shift was adopted to obtain the bidirectional pattern with the +1st harmonic using two switching sequences. Furthermore, the genetic algorithm was modified to obtain an additional beam using the fundamental component. In the proposed approach, the direction and sidelobe of the beam can be controlled by designing switching sequences, resulting in low complexity and a flexible structure in case of bidirectional beamforming. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed methods, and the levels of the sidelobe and null were reduced to −20 and −53.7 dB, respectively.
Technical Note: kV‐independent coronary calcium scoring: A phantom evaluation of score accuracy and potential radiation dose reduction
Authors: Tao Shengzhen , Sheedy Emily , Bruesewitz Michael , Weber Nikkole , Williams Kyle , Halaweish Ahmed , Schmidt Bernhard , Williamson Eric , McCollough Cynthia , Leng Shuai
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To determine the accuracy of CT number and calcium score of a kV‐independent technique based on an artificial 120 kV reconstruction, and its potential to reduce radiation dose.

Methods

Anthropomorphic chest phantoms were scanned on a third‐generation dual‐source CT system equipped with the artificial 120 kV reconstruction. First, a phantom module containing a 20‐mm diameter hydroxyapatite (HA) insert was scanned inside the chest phantoms at different tube potentials (70–140 kV) to evaluate calcium CT number accuracy. Next, three small HA inserts (diameter/length = 5 mm) were inserted into a pork steak and scanned inside the phantoms to evaluate calcium score accuracy at different kVs. Finally, the same setup was scanned using automatic exposure control (AEC) at 120 kV, and then with automatic kV selection (auto‐kV). Phantoms were also scanned at 120 kV using a size‐dependent mA chart. CT numbers of soft tissue and calcium were measured from different kV images. Calcium score of each small HA insert was measured using commercial software.

Results

The CT number difference from 120 kV was small with tube potentials from 90 to 140 kV for both soft tissue and calcium (maximal difference of 4/5 HU, respectively). Consistent calcium scores were obtained from images of different kVs compared to 120 kV, with a relative difference <8%. Auto‐kV provided a 25–34% dose reduction compared to AEC alone.

Conclusion

A kV‐independent calcium scoring technique can produce artificial 120 kV images with consistent soft tissue and calcium CT numbers compared to standard 120 kV examinations. When coupled with auto‐kV, this technique can reduce radiation by 25–34% compared to that with AEC alone, while providing consistent calcium scores as that of standard 120 kV examinations.
Technical Note: A simple method for measuring the slice sensitivity profile of iteratively reconstructed CT images using a non‐slanted edge plane
Authors: Narita Akihiro , Ohkubo Masaki , Fukaya Takahiro , Noto Yoshiyuki
Published: December 2020

Purpose

A method for measuring the slice sensitivity profile (SSP) of computed tomography (CT) images reconstructed with iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms was reported by the AAPM Task Group 233 (TG233). In this method, the phantom plane edge is slightly slanted with respect to the scan plane to obtain a composite oversampled edge‐spread function (ESF). However, it is expected that a fine‐sampled ESF can be obtained directly from images reconstructed with a small slice increment without slanting the edge plane. This study aimed to investigate the validity of using a non‐slanted edge plane.

Methods

In the proposed non‐slanted edge method, the phantom was positioned so that the plane edge was perpendicular to the longitudinal z‐axis, and images were reconstructed with a 1‐mm slice thickness and 0.1‐mm increment. The mean CT value was obtained in each slice and plotted as a function of slice position along the z‐axis, thereby generating the ESF. The SSP was calculated from the ESF by differentiation. In the TG 233‐recommended slanted edge method, the SSP was obtained by following the procedure described in the TG233 report. To validate the methodology, we first used filtered back projection (FBP) images to compare SSPs obtained using the non‐slanted edge method, slanted edge method, and a standard method using a high‐contrast thin object (coin). Next, for two types of IR algorithms, we compared the SSPs obtained using the non‐slanted and slanted edge methods.

Results

For the FBP images, the SSP measured using the non‐slanted edge method agreed well with SSPs measured using the coin and slanted edge methods. For the IR images, the SSPs measured using the non‐slanted and slanted edge methods showed good agreement.

Conclusions

The non‐slanted edge method was demonstrated to be valid. The simplicity and practicality of the method allows routine and accurate determination of the SSP.
Improved reproducibility of diffusion MRI of the human brain with a four‐way blip‐up and down phase‐encoding acquisition approach
Authors: Irfanoglu M. Okan , Sadeghi Neda , Sarlls Joelle , Pierpaoli Carlo
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To assess the effects of blip‐up and ‐down echo planar imaging (EPI) acquisition designs, with different choices of phase‐encoding directions (PEDs) on the reproducibility of diffusion MRI (dMRI)‐derived metrics in the human brain.

Methods

Diffusion MRI data in seven subjects were acquired five times, each with five different protocols. The base design included 64 diffusion directions acquired with anterior‐posterior (AP) PED, the first and second protocols added reverse phase‐encoded posterior‐anterior (PA) PED images. The third one included 32 directions all with PED acquisitions with opposite polarity (AP and PA). The fourth protocol, also with 32 unique directions used four PEDs (AP, PA, right‐left (RL), and left‐right (LR)). The scan time was virtually identical for all protocols. The variability of diffusion MRI metrics for each subject and each protocol was computed across the different sessions.

Results

The highest reproducibility for all dMRI metrics was obtained with protocol four (AP/PA‐RL/LR, ie, four‐way PED). Protocols that used only for distortion correction, which are the most widely used designs, had the lowest reproducibility.

Conclusions

An acquisition design with four PEDs, including all DWIs in addition to images should be used to achieve high reproducibility in diffusion MRI studies.
Results on approximate controllability of nondensely defined fractional neutral stochastic differential systems
Authors: Dineshkumar C. , Udhayakumar R.
Published: December 2020

In our article, we are primarily concentrating on approximate controllability results for nondensely defined fractional neutral stochastic differential systems. By applying the results and ideas belongs to fractional calculus, multivalued maps and fixed point approach, the main results are established. Initially, we establish the approximate controllability of the considered fractional system, then continue to examine the system with infinite delay. In the end, we present an example to demonstrate the theory.
Protonation of γ‐Butyrolactone and γ‐Butyrolactam
Authors: Beck Stefanie , Feller Michael , Spies Laura , Dietrich Kai J. , Jessen Christoph , Stierstorfer Karin , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: December 2020

Abstract: γ‐Butyrolactone and γ‐butyrolactam were reacted in the superacidic systems XF/MF5 (X=H, D; M=As, Sb). Salts of the monoprotonated species of γ‐butyrolactone were obtained in terms of [(CH2)3OCOH]+[AsF6]−, [(CH2)3OCOH]+[SbF6]− and [(CH2)3OCOD]+[AsF6]− and the analogous lactam salts in terms of [(CH2)3NHCOH]+[AsF6]−, [(CH2)3NHCOH]+[SbF6]− and [(CH2)3NDCOD]+[AsF6]−. The salts were characterized by low temperature Raman and infrared spectroscopy and for both protonated hexafluoridoarsenates, [(CH2)3OCOH]+[AsF6]− and [(CH2)3NHCOH]+[AsF6]−, single‐crystal X‐ray structure analyses were conducted. In addition to the experimental results, quantum chemical calculations were performed on the B3LYP/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory. As in both crystal structures C⋅⋅⋅F contacts were observed, the nature of these contacts is discussed with Mapped Electrostatic Potential as a rate of strength.
The impact of the novel coronavirus movement restrictions in the United Kingdom on food outlet usage and body mass index
Authors: Albalawi Ahmad , Hambly Catherine , Speakman John R.
Published: December 2020

Background

Many countries have implemented various levels of lockdown to mitigate the spread of the global SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic. In the United Kingdom, the national lockdown restrictions were implemented between 26 March 2020 and 4 July 2020. These restrictions required all restaurants to close except for takeaway and delivery services. Moreover, individuals were instructed to largely stay in their homes, unless they were identified as essential workers, and to only leave home once per day for exercise. These restrictions might have an impact on energy intake and expenditure, thereby affecting their body weight.

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the movement restrictions in the United Kingdom on food outlet usage and body mass index (BMI).

Materials and Methods

Food outlet usage surveys were filled out for 7 consecutive days before and during the lockdown. Changes in BMI and food outlet usage before and during the lockdown were measured. A total of 206 participants were included in this study.

Results

The mean overall BMI prior to lockdown was 25.8 ± 5.2 kg·m2, and during the lockdown, it was 25.9 ± 5.3 kg·m2 (t= 0.19, p= 0.85). Restaurant usage fell to zero as all establishments were closed. There was a corresponding increase in the use of delivery services to 1.18 ± 0.13 times per week, compared to 0.50 ± 0.05 prior to lockdown (t= 4.44, p< 0.0001). No significant difference in the number of takeaway meals ordered was observed (0.67 ± 0.06 before the lockdown and 0.74 ± 0.12 times per week during the lockdown; t= 0.52, p = 0.60). There was no significant relationship between change in use of fast‐food restaurants and full‐service restaurants and the change in BMI, either alone or in combination (β = −0.012, p = 0.62, R2 = 0.11%).

Discussion

Despite the large changes in behavior, there was no overall adverse effect of the lockdown with respect to obesity levels.

Conclusion

Lockdown in the United Kingdom modified restaurant use but had no effect on obesity levels.
Effect of ionic liquid octyltriphenylphosphonium‐chelated orthoborates on flame retardance of epoxy
Authors: Guo Yongliang , Chen Xiaodong , Cui Jinfeng , Guo Junhong , Zhang Haojun , Yang Baoping
Published: December 2020

Flame retardants (FRs) improve the intrinsic flammability of epoxy resins (EPs). However, the fundamental properties of EPs are inevitably compromised with the improvement of flame retardancy due to addition of FRs. Here, an ionic liquid (IL) octyltriphenylphosphonium‐chelated orthoborate ([OTP][BScB]) has been synthesized and used as a flame‐retarding additive for EP (hereafter (EP/[OTP][BScB])). Themogravimetry analysis (TGA) result indicated that the addition of [OTP][BScB] improved the residue yield during thermal degradation. Flammability and combustion tests showed the superior flame‐retarding efficiency of the IL. More specifically, the addition of 3 wt% IL made EP/[OTP][BScB] pass the V‐0 grade in the vertical burning test (UL‐94) and achieve 32.5% value in the limited oxygen index (LOI) test. Cone calorimeter (CC) test showed that, compared with neat EP, EP/10[OTP][BScB] showed a reduction in the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR) of by 39.7% and 21.8%, respectively, during combustion. Accordingly, the flame‐retarding mechanisms in the gas and condensed phases were investigated in detail. In addition, tensile tests showed that the incorporation of the IL enhanced the mechanical property of EP/[OTP][BScB] to some extent. Moreover, UV–vis spectroscopy showed that the transparency of EP was basically maintained on the addition of [OTP][BScB]. Therefore, the IL [OTP][BScB] is a promising flame retardant to improve the properties of EP comprehensively.
Modified polyvinylidene fluoride ultrafiltration membrane coated with polydopamine/3‐(2,3‐epoxypropoxy) propyl triethoxy silane
Authors: Chen Hao , Li Yu , Wang Qing Gang , Li Wenxiang , Li Guishui
Published: December 2020

Using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as the membrane material, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as the additive, and N‐methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) as the solvent, the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration membrane was prepared by the phase inversion method, and using polydopamine (PDA)/3‐(2,3‐epoxypropoxy) propyl triethoxy silane (KH‐561) to modify the PVDF ultrafiltration membrane, using the rejection rate of bovine serum album (BSA) and pure water flux as indicators to optimize the casting solution formulation. The experimental results show that the best condition is: PVDF of 18 wt%, PVP of 2 wt%, NMP of 80 wt%. The PDA/KH‐561 hybrid coating can be evenly distributed on the surface of the PVDF ultrafiltration membrane, which significantly improves the hydrophilic performance and anti‐pollution performance of the ultrafiltration membrane. The optimal ratio of PDA/KH‐561 is obtained from the experiment results. In the case of the ratio 0.2/0.9, the performance of the membrane is the best, the water flux is 174 L m−2 h−1, the rejection rate of BSA is 91.4%, the contact angle is reduced from 65 to 40°, and the adsorption capacity of BSA protein decreased from 47 to 18 μg cm−2.
Effects of desilication pretreatment on rice husk/high‐density polyethylene bio‐composites
Authors: Yang Yingni , Pang Yao , Zhang Weiye , Xia Rongqi , Li Yanchen , Liu Yi , Guo Hongwu
Published: December 2020

Rice husk (RH) is a productive agricultural residue; however, its materialization is limited by its inherent properties. The comprehensive utilization of RH can be improved via pretreatment using physical and chemical methods. In this study, we explored the effect of pretreatment (shearing, grinding, and alkaline) on the properties of RH, as well as the bio‐composites developed using RH and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). Further, the surface morphology, chemical structure, water absorption, thermal stability, and dynamic viscoelasticity of the pretreated RH and RH/HDPE composites were investigated. The results denoted that the surface roughness of RH increased and that the silicon content partially decreased. The water absorption of the RH/HDPE composites pretreated by physical pretreatment was <2%. The occurrence of dynamic viscoelasticity indicated that the RH/HDPE composites pretreated by alkaline exhibited improved rigidity and mechanical properties. In the composites prepared using the RH pretreated by grinding, a strong bonding could be observed between the interfaces of HDPE and RH. Hence, the efficiency of RH utilization can be improved by pretreatment, and the prepared bio‐composites can increase the value of RH.
Study of the electrical conduction process in natural rubber‐based conductive nanocomposites filled with cellulose nanowhiskers coated by polyaniline
Authors: Silva Michael J. , Sanches Alex O. , Cena Cicero R. , Nagashima Haroldo N. , Medeiros Eliton S. , Malmonge José A.
Published: December 2020

In the present work, the electrical properties of a natural rubber‐based nanocomposite (NR) filled with cellulose nanowhiskers (CNW) coated with polyaniline (PANI) were studied. We developed a statistic model that simulates nanocomposite microstructure and conductivity, calculated using the transfer matrix technique. A two‐dimensional network of resistors representing a microstructure of both the insulating region (NR) and conductive fillers (cellulose nanowhiskers coated with polyaniline ‐ CNWP) was developed. The conductance of bond between two neighboring sites in the CNWP filler and two neighboring sites of the NR matrix was estimated using Drude's equation and Dyre's formula, respectively. Results of the simulations show that the conduction process between two sites of NR follows the modified Dyre model (RFEB), while between two CNWP sites follows the modified Drude model. The theoretical‐experimental adjustment shows that the electrical conduction process occurs via hopping and tunneling between states located inside the CNWP phase, randomly distributed in the rubber matrix.
What should we tell parents? Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Russo Francesca M , Debeer Anne , De Coppi Paolo , Devriendt Koenraad , Crombag Neeltje , Hubble Talia , Power Beverley , Benachi Alexandra , Deprest Jan
Published: December 2020

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is characterized by a defect in the muscle dividing the thoracic and abdominal cavities. This leads to herniation of the abdominal organs into the thorax and a disturbance of lung development. Two‐thirds of cases are identified by prenatal ultrasound in the second trimester, which should prompt referral to a tertiary center for prognosis assessment and counseling by a multidisciplinary team familiar with this condition. In this review, we summarize evidence on prenatal diagnosis and postnatal management of CDH. There is a focus on information that should be provided to expecting parents during prenatal counseling.
On the signless Laplacian Estrada index of uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Lu Hongyan , Xue Nini , Zhu Zhongxun
Published: December 2020

Let H = (V, E) be a hypergraph and B its incidence matrix. Let Q(H) = BBT be the signless Laplacian matrix of H and λ1(Q), λ2(Q), …, λn(Q) are its eigenvalues. The signless Laplacian Estrada index of H is defined as which is first extended to hypergraph. We obtain lower and upper bounds for the index in terms of the number of vertices and edges of H. We also determine the unique graph with maximum SLEE among all k‐uniform hypergraphs. In addition, we characterize the extremal hypertrees with the smallest and the largest SLEE among all k‐uniform hypertrees.
Identifying migratory pathways of Nathusius' pipistrelles (Pipistrellus nathusii) using stable hydrogen and strontium isotopes
Authors: Kruszynski Cecilia , Bailey Liam D. , Courtiol Alexandre , Bach Lothar , Bach Petra , Göttsche Matthias , Göttsche Michael , Hill Reinhold , Lindecke Oliver , Matthes Hinrich , Pommeranz Henrik , Popa‐Lisseanu Ana G. , Seebens‐Hoyer Antje , Tichomirowa Marion , Voigt Christian C.
Published: December 2020

Rationale

Identifying migratory corridors of animals is essential for their effective protection, yet the exact location of such corridors is often unknown, particularly for elusive animals such as bats. While migrating along the German coastline, Nathusius' pipistrelles (Pipistrellus nathusii) are regularly killed at wind turbines. Therefore, we explored the paths taken on their annual journey.

Methods

We used isotope ratio mass spectrometry to measure stable hydrogen and strontium isotope ratios in fur keratin of 59 Nathusius' pipistrelles captured on three offshore islands. Samples were pre‐treated before analysis to report exclusively stable isotope ratios of non‐exchangeable hydrogen. We generated maps to predict summer origins of bats using isoscape models.

Results

Bats were classified as long‐distance migrants, mostly originating from Eastern Europe. Hydrogen analysis suggested for some bats a possible Fennoscandian origin, yet additional information from strontium analysis excluded this possibility. Instead, our data suggest that most Nathusius' pipistrelles migrating along the German coastline were of continental European summer origin, but also highlight the possibility that Nathusius' pipistrelles of Baltorussian origin may travel offshore from Fennoscandia to Germany.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the benefit of using complementary isotopic tracers for analysing the migratory pathways of bats and also potentially other terrestrial vertebrate species. Furthermore, data from our study suggest an offset of fur strontium isotope ratios in relation to local bedrock.
Gonadotropin levels at the start of ovarian stimulation predict normal fertilization after hCG re‐trigger in GnRH antagonist cycles
Authors: Kitasaka Hiroya , Tokoro Mikiko , Kojima Masae , Fukunaga Noritaka , Asada Yoshimasa
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To assess the appropriateness of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) re‐trigger in poor responders to gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) trigger in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cycles.

Methods

The 2251 cycles in 2251 patients triggered with GnRHa for oocyte stimulation, with or without requiring hCG re‐trigger between 2013 and 2018, were retrospectively analyzed to compare gonadotropin levels at the start of COS and the rate of normal fertilization between the re‐trigger and non–re‐trigger group. Furthermore, patients in the re‐trigger group were stratified by the rate of normal fertilization (good: ≥60% or poor: <60%) to compare patient demographics, hormone profiles, and clinical outcome between the subgroups.

Results

In the re‐trigger group, FSH and LH levels at the start of COS were significantly lower in the good fertilization group than in the poor fertilization group (P < .01). Receiver operating characteristic curves identified cutoff values of the FSH and LH levels of 1.30 and 0.35 mIU/mL, respectively, for predicting ≥60% normal fertilization.

Conclusion

Gonadotropin levels at the start of COS are predictors of response to GnRHa trigger and hCG re‐trigger necessity, and may serve as indicators to help clinicians appropriately choose hCG re‐trigger rather than abandoning the cycles or continuing the first oocyte aspiration attempt.
De‐fluoridation of Polluted Water Using Aluminium Alginate Beads Doped with Green Synthesized ‘Nano SiO2+Nano CeO2‐ZrO2’, as an Effective Adsorbent
Authors: Biftu Wondwosen Kebede , Mekala Suneetha , Ravindhranath Kunta
Published: December 2020

Nanoparticles of SiO2 and ‘CeO2‐ZrO2’ are synthesized by adopting new green methods based on the classical method of homogeneous precipitation and using the extract of skins of Sapindus plant seeds as capping and/or stabilizing agent. Nano SiO2 is synthesized from red mud, a waste material obtained after extraction of aluminium from Bauxite ore. Nano SiO2, composites of ‘nSiO2+nCeO2‐ZrO2’ and Al‐alginate beads doped with ‘nSiO2+nCeO2‐ZrO2’ are investigated as adsorbents for de‐fluoridation. These three adsorbents are characterized by XRD, FTIR, FESEM and EDX. Various adsorption parameters, namely pH, adsorbent dosage, initial fluoride concentration, time of contact and temperature are optimized for maximum removal of fluoride ions. The adsorption capacities of adsorbents are 66.93 mg/g for nSiO2, 83.84 mg/g for composites of ‘nSiO2+nCeO2‐ZrO2’ and 109.4 mg/g for ‘nSiO2+nCeO2‐ZrO2/AlAL’ (beads). The cumulative affinity of fluoride towards SiO2, CeO2, ZrO2 and Al3+ has been investigated in this work in developing successful adsorbents with high adsorption capacities for de‐fluoridation. The adsorption nature is analysed with various kinetic, isotherm and thermodynamic studies. The adsorption is spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The surfaces of adsorbents are heterogeneous and Freundlich model explains well the sorption process. A sort of complex formation occurs between the adsorbents and fluoride ions. The adsorption follows pseudo‐second order kinetic model. The spent adsorbents can be regenerated and reused with marginal reduction in their adsorption capacities. The methodology developed is successfully applied to treating ground water samples of Prakasam and Guntur Districts, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Direct Z‐Scheme Structure g‐C3N4‐BiOI with Highly Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Activity for Bacteria Inactivation
Authors: Chen Cuirong R. , Wang Xiaodong D. , Wang Shilin L. , Zhang Jinlong L. , Tian Baozhu Z.
Published: December 2020

A series of direct Z‐scheme g‐C3N4‐BiOI photocatalysts with different BiOI contents were constructed by in‐situ depositing BiOI nanoplates on the surface of g‐C3N4 nanosheets. Light absorption results indicated that the introduction of BiOI can improve the visible‐light absorption of g‐C3N4. By analyzing the transient photocurrent responses, electrochemical impedance and photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra, it was disclosed that g‐C3N4‐BiOI Z‐scheme structure not only decreases the recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers but also remains the electrons with higher reduction ability and holes with higher oxidizing ability. The results of photocatalytic disinfection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) under visible light irradiation indicated that g‐C3N4‐BiOI exhibits dramatically enhanced photocatalytic activity when compared to single g‐C3N4 and BiOI. And the optimal loading amount of BiOI corresponding to the highest photocatalytic performance of g‐C3N4‐BiOI is 20 %. In addition, the radical trapping experiments indicated that .O2− and h+ are the main reactive species responsible for the disinfection of E. coli.
A Kinetic Study on the Degradation of Acetaminophen and Amoxicillin in Water by Ultrasound
Authors: Stucchi Marta , Rigamonti Marco G. , Carnevali Davide , Boffito Daria C.
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a study of the conversion pathway of acetaminophen (APAP) and amoxicillin (AMO) in water by ultrasound as a single degradation method. Results showed that the sonication power output, continuous vs. pulsed ultrasound and starting concentration, result in different conversion pathways, as well as the simultaneous presence of the two molecules reduces the degradation yield. Hydroquinone and hydroxyl‐hydroquinone were detected as acetaminophen by‐products, while amoxicillin degraded into four main products. Accordingly, we proposed a conversion pathway mechanism and we finally regressed the amoxicillin conversion kinetics as a function of the ultrasonic power. APAP was more resistant to continuous sonication either at low (25 ppm) or high (100 ppm) starting concentration. On the contrary, ultrasound was able to convert AMO up to 56 % starting from a concentration of 25 ppm. We ascribed this behavior to the presence of a higher number of hydroxyl groups present in the molecule compared to APAP. Moreover, when ultrasound were applied in pulses, it resulted in an energy saving of more than 50 % for a 2 % lower AMO conversion.
Hierarchically Porous Carbon/α‐Fe@Fe3C Absorbers Derived from Luffa Sponge with Efficient Microwave Absorption
Authors: Zheng Qi , Yu Meijie , Wang Wen , Liu Siyu , Liang Xuechen , Wang Chengguo , Dai YouYong , Gao Xueping
Published: December 2020

Biomass‐based carbon materials have attracted much attention in the field of microwave absorption because of their light weight, environmental friendliness, low cost and high efficiency. In this work, carbon matrix of porous microtubule structure with different magnetic particles was synthesized from natural luffa sponge by a simple calcination process. The carbon matrix possesses hierarchical porous structures including micrometer‐scale tubular channels, nanometer‐scale macrospores, mesopores and micropores, of which microspores are the most. The Fe3O4, FeO/α‐Fe, α‐Fe/γ‐Fe and α‐Fe/Fe3C particles were formed in the temperature range of 700–1000 °C. The porous carbon/α‐Fe@Fe3C composites obtained at 1000 °C exhibit excellent microwave absorption (MA) performance, its minimum reflection loss can reach −48.9 dB with only a thickness of 1.5 mm, and the effective absorption bandwidth (RL≤−10 dB) is 3.86 GHz. The porous structure, synergies between dielectric loss and magnetic loss, high attenuation constant are the key factors for good MA performance.
Catalyst/Additive Free Oxidation of Benzyl Bromides to Benzaldehydes
Authors: Aman Hasil , Chen Yuan‐Ching , Tu Jing‐Wen , Chang Chia‐Chi , Chuang Gary Jing
Published: December 2020

An effective approach for the synthesis of aryl aldehydes from the corresponding benzylbromides was accomplished. Without need of additional additives or stoichiometric oxidants, this environmental friendly and milder version of Kornblum oxidation simply utilized the irradiation of visible light in DMSO under O2, and is compatible with the substrate with different functional groups.
Significant Passivation Effect of Cu(In, Ga)Se2 Solar Cells via Back Contact Surface Modification Using Oxygen Plasma
Authors: Zeng Longlong , Zeng Chunhong , Liang Yunfeng , Yuan Ye , Yan Genghua , Hong Ruijiang
Published: December 2020

Molybdenum back contact plays a significant role in chalcopyrite Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells. A molybdenum oxide intermediate layer is applied to optimize the back contact from the aspect of absorber crystal growth regulation and back surface field reconstruction. A novel molybdenum oxide preparation method is introduced through oxygen plasma treatment of the molybdenum layer. CIGS film is obtained by sputtering from a quaternary target with post‐selenization. The shortage of Cu and Se in the middle of the absorption layer causes crystallization stratification. A bidirectional regulation method for controlling intermediate fine grains is proposed. Superior crystallinity is produced to facilitate carriers’ transport and reduce recombination at grain boundaries. Back passivation is achieved by forming a reverse p–n junction on the back surface. Despite the formation of this reverse junction, the efficiency of the device is still improved because the transport of holes is assisted by the molybdenum oxide's gap states. Thus, back surface recombination is effectively reduced by back passivation, leading to the increase in open‐circuit voltage (Voc) and fill factor (FF). The power conversion efficiency of treated solar cells increases by 34.1%. An innovative direction is proposed to optimize the back contact of CIGS solar cells in this study.
The Recent Development in the Syntheses, Properties, and Applications of Triple Modification of Various Starches
Authors: Ashogbon Adeleke Omodunbi
Published: December 2020

The problems associated with native starches, single and dual modifications of various starches are stated in order to justify the utilization of triple modification of various starches. In triple modification, the first and dual modifications prepare the starch chains, structures, and polymeric components of the starch granules for the acceptance and accommodation of the triple modification. Sometimes there is development of pores, cracks, and other morphological flaws or weakening of the starch structures and chains during the first and dual modifications in order for easy penetration of the modifying agents during the third modification. There are mainly two types of triple modification, that is, homogeneous and heterogeneous. Homogeneous triple modification is when all the three stages of the process are similar, for example, acetylation/oxidation/crosslinking, this is homogeneous triple chemical modification. An example of homogeneous triple physical modification is a combination of extrusion/ultrasonication/ANN. When three enzymes (α‐amylase/transglucosidase/pullulanase) are involved in the stages of the process, it is called homogeneous triple enzymes modification. In contrast, heterogeneous triple modification involves combinations of the various three stages that constitute the process, for example, extrusion/pullulanase/ANN. This overview discusses the syntheses, properties, and utilization of triple modified starches.
Repetition Acknowledgment Prefaces
Authors: Gibson David R.
Published: December 2020

I consider a particularly puzzling conversational phenomenon: the repetition acknowledgment preface, or RAP, which consists of a brief reference to an earlier telling of a story, or topic of conversation, prior to its repetition (e.g., I was just telling John…). Drawing on the work of Erving Goffman, in particular, and a collection of carefully documented empirical episodes, I identify eleven functions RAPs may serve (intentionally or unintentionally), the circumstantial preconditions for each, and the extent to which RAPs are well‐suited for it, conjecturing that well‐suitedness is a clue to RAPs' original purpose.
Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates reproductive function injury in C57BL/6J mice induced by di‐N‐butyl‐phthalate
Authors: Xu Xiaolei , Qu Zhenting , Qian Honghao , Li Zhongming , Sun Xiuling , Zhao Xinrui , Li Huan
Published: December 2020

With the aggravation of environmental pollution, the incidence of infertility is increasing. Ginsenoside Rg1 is a monomer component extracted from Panax ginseng. It has been found that Ginsenoside Rg1 is able to prevent premature ovarian failure and delay testicular senescence. Therefore, we speculate Ginsenoside Rg1 may have great potential to prevent and treat infertility. The aim of this work is to explore whether Ginsenoside Rg1 plays a protective role in the dinbutyl phthalate (DBP)‐induced reproductive function injury mice, and to elucidate the potential mechanism. C57BL/6J male mice were administered by DBP with or without Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment and serum, testis and epididymis were collected for further analysis. Sperm analysis, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and serum hormone detection indicated that Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment improved the sperm density and sperm motility, reduced the testicular tissue damage, increased the serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels, and decreased the serum follicle‐stimulating hormone level in DBP‐induced mice. Furthermore, Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment upregulated expression levels of spermatogenesis‐related protein, Cx43, E‐cadherin, p‐PI3K, p‐Akt, and mTOR in the mice treated by DBP, observed by using a immunohistochemistry assay, a real‐time quantitative PCR assay, and a western blot analysis. The present study reveals that Ginsenoside Rg1 may exert anti‐DBP‐induced reproductive function injury in C57BL/6J mice. In addition, the protect role of Ginsenoside Rg1 in spermatogenesis may be associated with the regulation of reproductive hormones, upregulation of spermatogenic associated proteins expression, restoration of the gap junctions, and the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways.
Effects of dietary vinegar on performance, immune response and small intestine histomorphology in 1‐ to 28‐day broiler chickens
Authors: Jahantigh Mohammad , Kalantari Heydar , Ayda Davari Seyedeh , Saadati Dariush
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of apple cider vinegar in diet on the growth performance, immune response, histomorphological changes of the small intestine and some serum biochemical factors in broilers. A total of 85 broiler chicks of Ross 308 were purchased and 64 well‐conditioned chicks were selected and divided into four experimental groups with four replicates and four chicks per replicate. The diets of groups 2, 3 and 4 were mixed with 1, 2 and 3% of vinegar, respectively, and group 1 as the control group was fed by the standard diet. The results showed that body weight gain was higher in the groups fed vinegar than the control group. There were no significant changes in the feed conversion ratio between the treatment and control groups (p = .507). Vinegar intake through the diet did not change significantly the weight of Bursa of Fabricius (p = .369) and spleen (p = .122). Vinegar significantly reduced blood urea nitrogen levels in the treatment groups compared with the control group (p = .0052). There was a significant increase in the level of antibody titre against Newcastle disease virus by haemagglutination inhibition test in the groups receiving vinegar in comparison with control group (p = .0358). Compared with the control group, the villus height (p = .0022) and intestinal crypts depth (p = .0015) significantly increased in the groups receiving apple cider vinegar. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with apple cider vinegar has beneficial effects on performance, immune response and small intestine histomorphology in broilers.
Dacryoendoscopy for dacryocystitis management in a dog: A case report
Authors: Choi Yeon‐Hyung , Jang Je‐Hwan , Kim Joon‐Young
Published: December 2020

A castrated, mixed‐breed, 10‐year‐old male dog developed a skin fistula from a ruptured periorbital swelling on the right eye; the patient was successfully treated with dacryoendoscope‐guided cannulation using a nasolacrimal tube. On presentation, computed tomography with concurrent dacryocystography (CT‐DCG) revealed obstruction of the right nasolacrimal duct and abnormal flow of contrast agents towards the root of tooth 109 at the right maxillary bone; however, the origin of the fistula remained unclear on CT‐DCG. Dacryoendoscopy was used to confirm the physical association between the fistula and the nasolacrimal duct; the fistula end was found to be near the right upper gum mucosa around tooth 107. CT‐DCG and dacryoendoscopy revealed that the periorbital swelling occurred owing to an infection or inflammation of the accessory nasolacrimal duct. The fistula end was connected to the oral cavity through a nasolacrimal tube installed in the oral mucosa. The tube was removed a week later, and the clinical symptoms completely resolved.
Modeling molecular kinetics with Milestoning
Authors: Elber Ron , Fathizadeh Arman , Ma Piao , Wang Hao
Published: December 2020

Time scales are of paramount importance in biology. Living systems exploit variations in time scales to aim processes in desired directions. The network of biochemical reactions shapes cellular responses and metabolism. Enzymes speed up the rate of reactions and molecular machines carry on cellular tasks. Significant efforts are invested in studying dynamics of biophysical processes and understanding their mechanisms. Experiments provide important clues, but the data can be sparse. Atomically detailed Molecular Dynamics simulations hold the promise of comprehensive pictures of these events. A challenge for simulations is the wide range of time scales in biology, from femtoseconds to hours. Straightforward Molecular Dynamics simulations of kinetics are typically bound by microseconds and unable to probe slower processes. For example, membrane permeation by a small molecule can take hours, slow events in protein folding, seconds, and enzymatic reactions, hundreds of milliseconds. To address these challenges, we introduce the method of Milestoning. Milestoning is a theory and an algorithm to enhance the sampling of kinetic events using computer simulations. Milestoning exploits short trajectories between interfaces of cells in coarse space. Short trajectories are efficient to compute and provide a sequence of approximations that converge to the exact solution. The theory is discussed, and several examples illustrate the use of Milestoning. We consider an enzymatic reaction, peptide permeation through a phospholipid membrane, and the translocation of the lethal factor through the Anthrax channel. The high versatility of Milestoning suggests that it is a useful tool for investigations of complex biomolecular reactions.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

Molecular and Statistical Mechanics > Molecular Dynamics and Monte‐Carlo Methods

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Reaction Dynamics and Kinetics
Mycoremediation of azo dyes using Cyberlindnera fabianii yeast strain: Application of designs of experiments for decolorization optimization
Authors: Danouche Mohammed , Ferioun Mohamed , Bahafid Wifak , El Ghachtouli Naima
Published: December 2020

This study investigated the dye decolorization capacity of three yeast strains. Cyberlindnera fabianii was shortlisted for its high decolorization capacity and was further tested on various azo dyes. Based on the color of the biomass, and the UV–Vis analysis, Acid Red 14 was selected as a model dye, to examine the enzymatic biodegradation. The results showed significant increase in the intracellular and extracellular activities of laccase, tyrosinase, manganese peroxidase, and azoreductase. Phytotoxicity assessment indicated that the AR14 biodegradation by‐products were not phytotoxic compared to the original dye molecules. Regarding the decolorization optimization, the screening of factors using the Plackett–Burman design showed that pH, dye concentration, and shaking speed had significant effects. These factors and their combined effect were evaluated using response surface methodology with the Box–Behnken model. The pH was the most significant factor, followed by dye concentration. The analysis of the contour plot and the 3D response surface diagram showed that the decolorization was inversely proportional to the increase in the initial dye concentration, but proportional to the initial pH and shaking speed. At optimal conditions (pH = 5.154, AR14 = 50 mg/L), C. fabianii could decolorize more than 97% of AR14 within 12 hr.

Practitioner points

Cyberlindnera fabianii is a successful candidate for dye mycoremediation.

Oxidase and reductase are the key enzymes involved in the biodegradation of azo dyes.

By‐products of Acid red 14 biodegradation are not phytoxic compared to the original dye.

Design of experience tools enables to determine optimum conditions for efficient decolorization.
Genome‐wide prediction of chromatin accessibility based on gene expression
Authors: Zhou Weiqiang , Ji Hongkai
Published: December 2020

Decoding gene regulation in a biological system requires information from both transcriptome and regulome. While multiple high‐throughput transcriptome and regulome mapping technologies are available, transcriptome profiling is more widely used. Today, over a million bulk and single‐cell gene expression samples are publicly available. This number is orders of magnitude larger than the number of available regulome samples. Most of the gene expression samples do not have corresponding regulome data. However, it is possible to obtain regulome information via prediction. Open chromatin is a hallmark of active regulatory elements. This mini‐review discusses recent advances in predicting chromatin accessibility using gene expression data, including both the development of prediction methods and their applications in expanding the regulome catalog, improving regulome analysis, integrating transcriptome and regulome data, and facilitating single‐cell analysis of gene regulation.

This article is categorized under:

Applications of Computational Statistics > Genomics/Proteomics/Genetics

Data: Types and Structure > Massive Data

Statistical Models > Linear Models
Improving Coastal Plain Hardwoods for Deer and Turkeys with Canopy Reduction and Fire
Authors: Turner Mark A. , Gulsby William D. , Harper Craig A. , Ditchkoff Stephen S.
Published: December 2020

Prescribed fire and canopy reduction are accepted forest management practices used to increase forage and cover for white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) in pine systems throughout the southeastern United States. However, use of prescribed fire to improve conditions for deer and turkeys has not been evaluated in upland hardwood forests of the Coastal Plain, and some land managers remain skeptical of the utility of fire in this ecoregion. We designed a manipulative experiment to measure deer and turkey habitat components following canopy reduction and prescribed fire in 4 upland hardwood stands in the Coastal Plain of Alabama, USA, during 2018 and 2019. Specifically, we used herbicide to kill trees with low value to deer and turkeys and retained oaks (Quercus spp.) and other species considered important as part of a forest stand improvement (FSI) operation to reduce canopy coverage. We then applied low‐intensity prescribed fire to half of each treatment unit. One unit in each replicate served as a control. We measured total understory plant coverage, biomass of deer forage, and turkey brooding cover for 2 years following canopy reduction and one year after fire. Coverage of herbaceous plants increased by 134% in FSI/Burn, and coverage of woody and semiwoody plants increased by 33% and 97%, respectively, following FSI only. Deer forage biomass was greater in both FSI and FSI/Burn compared to control, but there was no difference in deer forage biomass between FSI and FSI/Burn. FSI/Burn provided better turkey brooding cover than FSI or control. No overstory trees were killed by fire. We detected minor cambium damage to 13% of water oaks (Quercus nigra) in the FSI/Burn units; other species only showed light bark charring or no sign of burning. We recommend FSI and low‐intensity prescribed fire in Coastal Plain hardwoods to improve brooding cover for turkeys and understory forage for deer while retaining acorn production. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.