bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrinsically Stretchable, Highly Efficient Organic Solar Cells Enabled by Polymer Donors Featuring Hydrogen‐Bonding Spacers
Authors: Lee Jin‐Woo , Seo Soodeok , Lee Sun‐Woo , Kim Geon‐U , Han Seungseok , Phan Tan Ngoc‐Lan , Lee Seungjin , Li Sheng , Kim Taek‐Soo , Lee Jung‐Yong , Kim Bumjoon J.
Published: September 2022

Intrinsically stretchable organic solar cells (IS‐OSCs), consisting of all stretchable layers, are attracting significant attention as a future power source for wearable electronics. However, most of the efficient active layers for OSCs are mechanically brittle due to their rigid molecular structures designed for high electrical and optical properties. Here, a series of new polymer donors (PDs, PhAmX) featuring phenyl amide (N1,N3‐bis((5‐bromothiophen‐2‐yl)methyl)isophthalamide, PhAm)‐based flexible spacer (FS) inducing hydrogen‐bonding (H‐bonding) interactions is developed. These PDs enable IS‐OSCs with a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.73% and excellent stretchability (PCE retention of >80% of the initial value at 32% strain), representing the best performances among the reported IS‐OSCs to date. The incorporation of PhAm‐based FS enhances the molecular ordering of PDs as well as their interactions with a Y7 acceptor, enhancing the mechanical stretchability and electrical properties simultaneously. It is also found that in rigid OSCs, the PhAm5:Y7 blend achieves a much higher PCE of 17.5% compared to that of the reference PM6:Y7 blend. The impact of the PhAm‐FS linker on the mechanical and photovoltaic properties of OSCs is thoroughly investigated.
Profit‐maximizing potassium fertilizer recommendations for corn and cotton
Authors: Oliver Kimberly , Popp Michael P. , Slaton Nathan A. , Drescher Gerson Laerson , Roberts Trenton L.
Published: September 2022

Whereas K fertilization is necessary to maximize corn (Zea mays L.) and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) yields in soils with sub‐optimum K availability, maximizing yield is rarely profit‐maximizing. Estimating the tradeoff between yield and fertilizer cost using current soil‐building and/or yield‐maximizing rate recommendations vs. profit‐maximizing fertilizer‐K rates (KR*) provides insights for producers. Thirty‐nine and 24 fertilizer‐K rate trials were used to estimate respective corn and cotton yield response based on soil‐K availability (SK). Using a field's SK, yield potential, yield response to fertilizer‐K, crop price, and fertilizer‐K cost, KR* were calculated over the past 10 yr. Averaging over that period, using KR* at SK of 75 and 60 mg K kg–1 (a) reduced fertilizer‐K rate by 10 and 38 kg K ha–1, respectively, (b) decreased yield by 53 and 32 kg ha–1, respectively, and (c) increased profitability by US$1.75 and $34.24 ha–1, respectively, in comparison to current recommendations for corn. At SK of 75 and 110 mg K kg–1, cotton profitability at KR* vs. current recommendations rose by $11.54 to $25.95 ha–1, respectively, using 36 and 101 kg K ha–1 more fertilizer, respectively, which led to 27 and 73 kg ha–1 greater yield, respectively. As with prior studies for rice (Oryza sativa L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], corn results suggest using less fertilizer than currently recommended, whereas for cotton, strong yield response to fertilizer‐K and relatively high crop price justified KR* that were above currently recommended rates. A spreadsheet‐based decision tool is online to offer this insight to producers and crop consultants.
Real‐Time Remodeling of Granular Terrain for Robot Locomotion
Authors: Karsai Andras , Kerimoglu Deniz , Soto Daniel , Ha Sehoon , Zhang Tingnan , Goldman Daniel I.
Published: September 2022

Terrain irregularities in natural environments present mobility challenges for autonomous robots and vehicles. Loosely consolidated sandy slopes flow unpredictably when perturbed, often leading to locomotion failure. Systematic experiments with various robot morphologies on flowable terrains feature open‐loop quasistatic gait strategies that remodel the terrain to aid locomotor kinematics. On a sloped terrain of granular media near the critical angle, a laboratory‐scale rover robot induces a flow via a localized fluidization gait to remodel local terrain and succeed in locomotion. A Bayesian optimization machine learning approach that modulates this gait strategy then finds a pattern of selectively fluidizing and solidifying terrain to climb slopes rapidly. In a biped walker robot, a cleated foot design dynamically manipulates the stress fields of flowable slopes. The deeply submerged cleats remodel the shear response of the material by creating jammed regions behind them which then improve forward progression by reducing slip when compared to a flat foot. The “robophysics” approach of systematic experiments exploring terrain reconfiguration combined with future machine learning models of flowable terrain evolution can augment gait discovery for future robots.
Experimental Demonstration of Multilevel Resistive Random Access Memory Programming for up to Two Months Stable Neural Networks Inference Accuracy
Authors: Esmanhotto Eduardo , Hirtzlin Tifenn , Bonnet Djohan , Castellani Niccolo , Portal Jean-Michel , Querlioz Damien , Vianello Elisa
Published: September 2022

Crossbars of resistive memories, or memristors, provide a road to reduce the energy consumption of artificial neural networks, by naturally implementing multiply accumulate operations, their most basic calculations. However, a major challenge of implementing robust hardware neural networks is the conductance instability over time of resistive memories, due to the local recombination of oxygen vacancies. This effect causes resistive memory‐based neural networks to rapidly lose accuracy, an issue that is sometimes overlooked. Herein, this conductance instability issue is shown, which can be avoided without changing the material stack of the resistive memory by exploiting an original programming strategy. This technique relies on program‐and‐verify loops with appropriately chosen wait times and ensures that the resistive memories are programmed into states with stable filaments. To test the strategy, a 32 × 32 in‐memory computing system, fabricated in a hybrid complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS)/hafnium oxide technology, is programmed to classify heart arrhythmia from electrocardiogram. When the resistive memories are programmed conventionally, the system loses accuracy within hours. In contrast, when using this technique, the system maintains an accuracy of 95% over more than 2 months. These results highlight the potential of resistive memory for the implementation of low‐power neural networks with long‐term stability.
Artificial Intelligence‐Assisted Repair System for Structural and Electrical Restoration Using 3D Printing
Authors: Zhang Yan , Qiao Jing , Zhang Guangyu , Tian Huichun , Li Longqiu
Published: September 2022

The characteristic of material accumulation makes 3D printing competitive in remanufacturing and repairing. However, conventional repair methods require additional equipment and manual intervention to sequentially finish complicated processes such as global scanning and reverse modeling, which results in efficiency reduction and usage restriction. To address the existing shortcomings, an automatic repair system with artificial intelligence (AI) assistance is developed, which includes a semantic segmentation module, deep reinforcement learning (DRL) module, and composite printing device. The damaged part features are extracted by semantic segmentation from the captured real‐time images to establish DRL maps, where the print motion is simulated and transmitted to the printer. The results indicate that the applied bilateral segmentation network (BiSeNetV2) is 59.03% and 29.90% faster than pyramid scene parsing network (PSPNet) and DeepLabV3+ architecture with satisfying accuracy. The established DRL model based on actual printing achieves the optimization of agent learning speed and print quality. The automatic system improves the repair efficiency by 294% compared to the conventional methods, and enables both structural and electrical repair through high‐temperature polymer–metal printing. This intelligent system enables industrial robots to independently handle unexpected tasks in complex and changeable environments through interdisciplinary knowledge integration of advanced manufacturing and AI.
Ingestible Functional Magnetic Robot with Localized Flexibility (MR‐LF)
Authors: Greenwood Taylor E. , Cagle Henry , Pulver Benson , Pak On Shun , Kong Yong Lin
Published: September 2022

The integration of an ingestible dosage form with sensing, actuation, and drug delivery capabilities can enable a broad range of surgical‐free diagnostic and treatment strategies. However, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a highly constrained and complex luminal construct that fundamentally limits the size of an ingestible system. Recent advancements in mesoscale magnetic crawlers have demonstrated the ability to effectively traverse complex and confined systems by leveraging magnetic fields to induce contraction and bending‐based locomotion. However, the integration of functional components (e.g., electronics) in the proposed ingestible system remains fundamentally challenging. Herein, the creation of a centralized compartment in a magnetic robot by imparting localized flexibility (MR‐LF) is demonstrated. The centralized compartment enables MR‐LF to be readily integrated with modular functional components and payloads, such as commercial off‐the‐shelf electronics and medication, while preserving its bidirectionality in an ingestible form factor. The ability of MR‐LF to incorporate electronics, perform drug delivery, guide continuum devices such as catheters, and navigate air–water environments in confined lumens is demonstrated. The MR‐LF enables functional integration to create a highly integrated ingestible system that can ultimately address a broad range of unmet clinical needs. An interactive preprint version of the article can be found athttps://doi.org/10.22541/au.166274072.23086985/v1.
Quantum Dots‐Functionalized Encryption Camera for Text Image Security Protection
Authors: Li Xue , Peng Jia , Zhang Tao , Liu Mingrui , Fu Ying , Zhong Haizheng , Zhang Jun
Published: September 2022

With the wide utilization of mobile devices with a camera as online communication tools, there is a great need to develop image encryption technology for protecting confidential and sensitive information. Herein, quantum dots‐functionalized encryption (QDE) camera is proposed by integrating the fluorescence emission of quantum dots (QDs) with charge coupled device or complementary metal oxide semiconductor detector arrays during the imaging process. The variation of the photoluminescence emission from QDs controlled by UV365 nm illumination provides a convenient way to scramble the spatial distribution of RGB values in the captured image, which expands the information entropy of the captured image to realize in situ image encryption. The encrypted text images can be decrypted by a convolutional neural network‐based algorithm, resulting in high‐quality decrypted images with peak signal‐to‐noise ratio up to 45 dB. Compared with the previous reported image encryption techniques of chaotic cryptosystem, fluorescent material‐based encryption, and optical encryption, the proposed QDE camera shows advantages of high execution speed and easy miniaturization. It provides a promising in situ image encryption technique to guarantee information security in digitization process.
Darter fishes exhibit variable intraspecific head shape allometry and modularity
Authors: Goodwin Maris R. , Arbour Jessica H.
Published: September 2022

Allometry, the relationship between anatomical proportions and body size, may either limit or facilitate the diversification of morphology. We examined the impact of allometry in darter fish morphology, which displays a variety of trophic morphologies. This study aimed to address (a) whether there was significant variation in darter head allometry, (b) if allometry contributed to head shape diversity in adults, and (c) if darters show head shape modularity associated with allometry. We used geometric morphometrics to quantify head shape across 10 different species and test for heterogeneity in allometric slopes. In addition, we quantified the degree of modularity between the preorbital and postorbital regions of the darter head, both before and after correction for body size. We found that different species have unique allometric slopes, particularly among the Simoperca subgenus, and that closely related darter species tend to show ontogenetic divergence, contributing to the diversity of head shapes observed in adults. We suggest that such a pattern may result from the similarity of juvenile diets due to gape limitation. We also found that several species show significant modularity in head shape but that modularity was evolutionarily labile and only sometimes impacted by head shape allometry. Overall, our work suggests that ontogenetic shape development may have been important to the evolution of head shape in darters, particularly in the evolution of foraging traits and microhabitat.
A multimodal 3D imaging approach of pore networks in the human femur to assess age‐associated vascular expansion and Lacuno‐Canalicular reduction
Authors: Andronowski Janna M. , Cole Mary E. , Davis Reed A. , Tubo Gina R. , Taylor Joshua T. , Cooper David M. L.
Published: September 2022

Cellular communication in the mechanosensory osteocyte Lacuno‐Canalicular Network (LCN) regulates bone tissue remodeling throughout life. Age‐associated declines in LCN size and connectivity dysregulate mechanosensitivity to localized remodeling needs of aging or damaged tissue, compromising bone quality. Synchrotron radiation‐based micro‐Computed Tomography (SRμCT) and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) were employed to visualize LCN and vascular canal morphometry in an age series of the anterior femur (males n = 14, females n = 11, age range = 19–101, mean age = 55). Age‐associated increases in vascular porosity were driven by pore coalescence, including a significant expansion in pore diameter and a significant decline in pore density. In contrast, the LCN showed significant age‐associated reductions in lacunar volume fraction, mean diameter, and density, and in canalicular volume fraction and connectivity density. Lacunar density was significantly lower in females across the lifespan, exacerbating their age‐associated decline. Canalicular connectivity density was also significantly lower in females but approached comparable declining male values in older age. Our data illuminate the trajectory and potential morphometric sources of age‐associated bone loss. Increased vascular porosity contributes to bone fragility with aging, while an increasingly reduced and disconnected LCN undermines the mechanosensitivity required to repair and reinforce bone. Understanding why and how this degradation occurs is essential for improving the diagnosis and treatment of age‐related changes in bone quality and fragility.
Treating elopement without extinction in a preschool setting
Authors: Boyle Megan A. , Monaco Britnea L. , Ebeling Lori M.
Published: September 2022

Elopement is a prevalent and dangerous behavior that is common with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Due to safety, logistics, and effort on the part of stakeholders, recent research has emphasized the need for treatments that do not include extinction or response blocking. Using a multiple‐baseline‐across‐functions design, we successfully decreased elopement with functional communication training, without additional treatment components, for one function but needed to add an additional treatment component (response blocking) for the second function for a 4 year‐old boy with ASD who engaged in elopement in a preschool setting. We highlight contributions to the literature on elopement as well as directions for future research.
Post break‐up stalking: Police‐officers' perceptions
Authors: Mesquita Rita , Gonçalves Mariana , Ferreira Célia , Matos Marlene
Published: September 2022

Stalking is characterized by persistent unwanted behaviors and can disrupt the lives of victims. Its prevalence has been increasing with time. Due to the recent criminalization of stalking in Portugal and its being an understudied phenomenon, the objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of police officers (n = 1212) about stalking post intimate relationship breakup. We developed an adaptation of the questionnaire “Reasonable Perceptions of Stalking”, using vignettes that describe stalking scenarios with the manipulation of severity, and victim and perpetrator sex. The main effects of severity, as well as the victim and the perpetrator's sex, were significant intrasubject variables in the perceptions of stalking and its severity, criminality, victim alert, fear of violence, victim‐blaming, and the need for intervention. Participants' sex, previous training, and personal and/or professional experience with stalking were also significant variables concerning participants' perceptions. Our findings show that gender stereotypes are still perpetuated and have important implications for police officer training and intervention.
Optimized pulse‐feeding fed‐batch fermentation for enhanced lignin to polyhydroxyalkanoate transformation
Authors: Unrean Pornkamol , Champreda Verawat
Published: September 2022

With an anticipated growth of Bio‐Circular‐Green economy, the amount of lignin generated as by‐product from biorefineries is increasing. Hence, lignin valorising strategies become a very interesting option to improve economic viability of the biorefineries. This study revealed the development of bioprocesses for upgrading lignin into bioplastic. Specifically, a novel strain of Pseudomonas fulva has been applied for microbial bioconversion of organosolv lignin to fermentative polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production. Fed‐batch fermentation of lignin‐to‐PHA with pulse‐feeding approach was optimized using Design of Experiment. Effects of C:N ratio and feeding profiles on PHA accumulation in P. fulva were investigated to determine optimal operation. Under optimized fed‐batch, the PHA concentration of 195.2 ± 6.6 mg/L could be reached and the PHA content was more than 2 folds enhancement compared to batch process. Type of PHA produced was also characterized for chemical composition via GC–MS analysis. The established lignin to PHA conversion could provide platform for developing integrated lignin bioprocessing to promote cost‐effective biorefineries.
‘In practice it can be so much harder’: Young people's approaches and experiences of supporting friends experiencing domestic abuse
Authors: Daw Jennifer , Salisbury Laura , Hay Susie , Jacob Suzanne
Published: September 2022

Young people are more likely to seek help about abusive relationships from friends, rather than adults or professionals, irrespective of gender, age or ethnic group. However, friends may be unequipped to deal with relationship problems and unable to provide adequate emotional or practical support. The aim of this paper is to explore how young people would support friends if they were seeking help or shared experiences of abuse. Qualitative findings drawn from a larger UK mixed‐methods study are used to explicate this. Data was gathered using 16 focus groups and one interview with girls, young women and non‐binary young people aged 13 to 24 years. Thematic analysis provided six themes pertaining to supporting friends and help‐seeking around relationship abuse. Findings showed young people recommended supporting friends in a non‐judgemental way to keep conversations open and help them recognise unhealthy behaviours. However, young people confirmed this is a difficult topic and many would feel fearful, helpless and under pressure. Conversations illustrated the need for more awareness of non‐physical abuse and resources specifically aimed at young people to enable them to help friends and know where and when to seek professional support.
MicroRNA‐16‐5p exacerbates sepsis by upregulating aerobic glycolysis via SIRT3‐SDHA axis
Authors: He Yue‐Xian , Huang Bo‐Lun , Yang Yi‐Yu , Song Wen‐Xiu , Fan Yong‐Bo , Zhang Li‐Mei , Liu Guo‐Sheng
Published: September 2022

Sepsis is a life‐threatening condition, and treatment for sepsis in clinic is often not available, partially due to insufficient understanding of the pathogenesis of sepsis. Extensive study to elucidate the pathogenesis is required to improve the clinical management and outcome of sepsis. In this study, we investigated the pathogenesis of sepsis using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from septic patients and studied the underlying mechanism of miR‐16‐5p on aerobic glycolysis in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated THP1 and Raw264.7 cells. The levels of RNA and protein were determined by real‐time quantitative PCR and immunoblotting assay, respectively. The production of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of succinate and lactate were determined using colorimetric kits. The extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were measured by extracellular flux analyzer. The results showed that the expression of miR‐16‐5p was elevated, while sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) was decreased in PBMCs from septic patients and LPS‐treated cells, along with accumulation of acetylated succinate dehydrogenase complex, subunit A. Concomitantly, an increase in HMGB1, succinate, lactate, as well as ECAR and a decrease in OCR were observed. Knockdown of miR‐16‐5p upregulated SIRT3 expression, facilitated SDHA deacetylation, and attenuated sepsis‐related aerobic glycolysis. Further study identified that SIRT3 is targeted by miR‐16‐5p, and overexpression of SIRT3 rescued LPS‐induced responses via deacetylation of SDHA. Our findings revealed a novel miR‐16‐5p‐regulated SIRT3‐SDHA axis in sepsis and provided novel insights for sepsis treatment.
RAB3D, upregulated by aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), promotes the progression of prostate cancer by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Yu Jingsong , Qi Haipeng , Wang Zheng , Zhang Ze , Song Erlin , Song Wenting , An Ruihua
Published: September 2022

Many patients with prostate cancer (PCa) cannot be diagnosed until an advanced stage, which make PCa become a large threat to human health. It is an urgent need to explore novel biomarkers for accurate diagnosis and targets for the effective treatment of PCa. This study aimed to investigate the effects of RAB3D (which belongs to the secretory Rab GTPases) on the progression of PCa. The results showed that RAB3D was highly expressed in PCa tissues compared to normal tissues according to the gene expression omnibus dataset. Consistent with the bioinformatics results, RAB3D exhibited a higher expression in PCa cells. Overexpression of RAB3D promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PCa cells, whereas the knockdown of RAB3D led to the opposite results. The procancer effects of RAB3D were further confirmed by the in vivo growth of xenograft model. Subsequently, RAB3D upregulated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro. LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor) rescued the RAB3D upregulation‐induced promotion of malignant phenotypes of PCa cells. Furthermore, the transcription activity of RAB3D was found to be enhanced by aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR; a transcription factor). The AhR silencing‐induced inhibition of the proliferation and migration of PCa cells was reversed by the overexpression of RAB3D. Taken together, RAB3D, upregulated by AhR, promotes the PCa progression by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Bespoke valve sizing avoids annular rupture in patients treated with a balloon‐expandable transcatheter heart valve
Authors: Chavarria Jorge , Falcao Felipe , Dutra Gustavo , Sathananthan Janarthanan , Wood David , Douvi Georgia , Natarajan Madhu , Jaffer Iqbal , Velianou James , Sheth Tej
Published: September 2022

Background

Annular and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) calcification increase the risk of annular rupture following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The outcomes of a strategy of routine use of a balloon‐expandable valve (BEV) for all patients irrespective of annular or LVOT calcium is unknown.

Objectives

We evaluated the impact of bespoke sizing on annular rupture in patients treated with a BEV.

Methods

All consecutive patients undergoing TAVR at a single centre (February 2020–February 2022) were treated only with a BEV. No other valve design was used. Annular/LVOT calcification was assessed using a standardized grading system. For each annular area, we determined the percentage valve oversizing with nominal deployment. The balloon deployment volume was then adjusted when required (over‐/underfilled) to achieve over‐sizing of approximately 5% in the presence of annular/LVOT calcium and 5%–10% in the absence of annular/LVOT calcium. Adjusted valve areas were assumed to change proportionately to the change in balloon deployment volume.

Results

Among 533 TAVR treated patients, annular/LVOT calcification was present in 166 (31.1%) and moderate or severe in 90 (16.9%). In patients with annular/LVOT calcification, the adjusted oversizing was 3.5 ± 3.6% and in patients without annular/LVOT calcification, the adjusted oversizing was 6.8 ± 4.7% (p < 0.001). There were no cases of annular rupture and no cases with more than mild paravalvular leak (PVL). Mild PVL was more frequent in patients with annular/LVOT calcium (10.8% vs 4.6%, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Bespoke BEV sizing by adjustment of balloon deployment volume avoided annular rupture in patients undergoing TAVR.
Usefulness of a novel sizing chart for left atrial appendage occlusion with the Amplatzer Amulet
Authors: Freixa Xavier , Cepas‐Guillén Pedro , Korsholm Kasper , Kramer Anders , Regueiro Ander , Flores‐Umanzor Eduardo , Sanchis Laura , Arenas‐Loriente Andrea , Jensen Jesper Møller , Nielsen‐Kudsk Jens Erik
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The present article aims to compare a novel sizing chart based on both maximum and minimum diameters (novel MATRIX) with the current sizing recommendation instructions for use (IFU) based on the maximum diameter.

Background

Current IFU with the Amulet device are still based on the maximum left atrial appendage (LAA) diameter, which might lead to inappropriate oversizing, especially in elliptic appendages.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing LAA occlusion in two high‐volume centers. Two hundred patients were included (100 patients with baseline cardiac computed tomography angiography [CCTA] and 100 with baseline 2D and 3D‐transesophageal echocardiography [TEE]). The degree of concordance between the predicted device size recommendation and the actual device selection was the primary outcome.

Results

The novel MATRIX showed a higher level of concordance between the predicted and implanted device size, regardless of imaging modalities. CCTA showed the strongest, and 2D‐TEE the weakest concordance between the predicted and implanted device for both MATRIX and IFU charts. The percentage of patients in whom the disagreement among the predicted and implanted device represented >1 size was higher when using the IFU chart. In elliptical LAA anatomies, the differences favoring the use of MATRIX compared to the IFU in terms of predicted/implanted agreement were higher. Finally, no significant differences in clinical or imaging endpoints were observed between the two different sizing charts.

Conclusions

Incorporating both the LAA maximum and minimum diameters, as opposed to just maximum diameter, appears to improve sizing accuracy. The proposed MATRIX sizing chart offered a higher level of concordance between predicted and implanted device compared to the current IFU.
Alcohol septal ablation for left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in cardiac amyloidosis: New indication for an established therapy
Authors: Fanta Lauren E. , Ewer Steven M. , Gimelli Giorgio , Reilly Nicole M.
Published: September 2022

Cardiac amyloidosis can occasionally demonstrate an atypical pattern of infiltration, causing asymmetric septal thickening and a left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient with systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the mitral valve resembling obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We present a case of a 70‐year‐old man with cardiac light‐chain amyloidosis and LVOT obstruction successfully treated with alcohol septal ablation (ASA). Following the procedure, he reported significant improvement in his heart failure symptoms as well as improvement in LVOT gradient and SAM of the mitral valve. This case demonstrates that ASA is a technically feasible and effective procedure for relieving LVOT obstruction in cardiac amyloidosis and can be considered as a treatment option in patients whose symptoms are refractory to medical therapy.
Power consumption in a moving baffle oscillatory baffled reactor: A CFD study
Authors: Mortazavi Hamid , Pakzad Leila
Published: September 2022

Oscillatory baffled reactors (OBRs) can perform high‐intensity mixing under low power consumption, and thus are viable replacements for stirred tank reactors in biological, chemical, and polymer processes. This study simulated the flow inside a moving baffle OBR with single orifice baffles using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The effect of operational and geometrical parameters along with the fluid density and viscosity on average power consumption and maximum power consumption was investigated, and appropriate correlations for both average and maximum power consumption were obtained. It was found that average and maximum power consumption are independent of viscosity, and amplitude has a greater impact on maximum power consumption than on average power consumption. These correlations were then compared with available power models (that showed an acceptable level of discrepancies) in the literature. Lower power consumption values obtained from CFD results compared to those obtained from quasi‐steady state model (QSM) and eddy enhancement model (EEM) models (developed for stationary baffle OBRs) under the same operating conditions, along with higher axial dispersion of moving baffle OBRs compared to stationary baffle types under the same operating conditions, indicated that a moving baffle OBR is a more efficient mixing device than a stationary baffle OBR in terms of power consumption. The ratio of average power consumption to maximum power consumption was proven to be independent of the type of fluid and a very weak function of oscillation frequency.
SupportedTiO2/silica gel as an efficient and inexpensive catalyst for nonsolvent liquid‐phase oxidation of cyclohexylamine to cyclohexanone oxime
Authors: Liu Shuilin , Liu Ning , Li Aiyang , Wu Suyun , Luo Jianghuan , Tang Xinde
Published: September 2022

A benign approach is proposed for the highly efficient synthesis of cyclohexanone oxime through nonsolvent liquid‐phase oxidation of cyclohexylamine with dioxygen over supported TiO2/silica gel. The as‐prepared catalyst was characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) analyses. The results indicate that titanium active sites could be grafted on silica gel supports as catalytic centres. Various parameters such as reaction time and reaction temperature were systematically optimized; the results showed that supported 20%TiO2/silica gel exhibited the best catalytic effect with 63.2% of amine conversion and 86.3% of selectivity to CHO. A possible pathway is proposed for cyclohexylamine oxidation over supported TiO2/silica gel. The method developed in this study using dioxygen as the oxidant and inexpensive TiO2/silica gel as an efficient catalyst has incredible industrial application potential for green synthesis of cyclohexanone oxime.
Degradable cationic clarifiers based on ester bonds for treating wastewater produced from polymer flooding
Authors: Wang Xiujun , Zhang Jian , Huang Bo , Duan Ming
Published: September 2022

Polymer‐contained oily sludge is inevitably produced when the oily wastewater produced from polymer flooding (OWPF) is treated by a cationic polymer clarifier, and it severely affects oilfield production. This study designed a novel degradable cationic clarifier (DCC) based on the ester bond and prepared it in light of the poly(β‐amino ester) used in the area of generic material delivery. First, the copolymer of N‐[3‐(dimethylamino) propyl] methacryamide (DMAPMA) and diallylamine (PDMAPMA‐NH) were synthesized by radical copolymerization. Then, the DCC was prepared by Michael addition between PDMAPMA‐NH and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate. The synthesis conditions of DCC were investigated, and a DCC with excellent flocculant performance and good degradability was successfully prepared. At 70°C, both the degradations of DCC and the water‐insoluble polymer complex formed by DCC and the polymer used for polymer flooding can be completed in 10 h, which is beneficial for the self‐disappearance of the polymer‐contained oily sludge. The flocs formed by DCC were observed at different times, and the results confirmed that the flocs can change to an oil film and that the polymer‐contained oily sludge cannot exist for a long time. This study provides inspiration for OWPF treatment and expands the new application for poly(β‐amino ester).
Preparation of propylene carbonate by alcoholysis of urea from the perspective of homogeneous reaction: Influence of dissolution and precipitation of metal oxide catalysts
Authors: Yang Fei , Shen Weihua , Fang Yunjin
Published: September 2022

The dissolution process of metal oxide catalysts in the alcoholysis of urea by 1, 2‐propylene glycol (PG) to the synthesis of propylene carbonate (PC) was investigated. It was found that the reaction was mainly catalyzed by homogeneous catalysts. The metal oxide reacted with ammonia and isocyanate acid, the decomposition products of urea, to form a complex and dissolved into the reaction system. The dissolved amount of catalyst was positively correlated with the PC yield by using different oxides and salts as catalysts. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) result of the catalysts reacting with urea showed that the dissolution‐precipitation process of the catalysts was related to the decomposition of urea. The results of catalytic test indicated that both the dissolved amount of catalysts and the structure of the complex affected PC yields. A reaction mechanism was proposed based on the results. From the mechanism, a complex catalyst with at least two ammonia ligands is better for this reaction.
Selective hydrogenation of oleic acid to fatty alcohols using Rh‐Sn‐B/TiO2 catalysts: Influence of Sn content
Authors: Fonseca Benítez Cristhian A. , Mazzieri Vanina A. , Sánchez María A. , Vicerich María A. , Benitez Viviana M. , Pieck Carlos L.
Published: September 2022

The influence of the catalyst Sn content on the production of fatty alcohol from oleic acid by selective hydrogenation was studied using Rh‐Sn‐B catalysts supported on TiO2. The crystal phase of the support was analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), the reduction state of the metal phase by temperature‐programmed reduction (TPR), and the electronic state of surface species by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The metal activity was evaluated by the dehydrogenation of cyclohexane. It was found that the increase in Sn content leads to a proportional drop in the catalytic activity, which could be related to a metallic interaction between Rh and Sn, as shown by TPR. Oxide and metallic Sn, as well as Rh0 and Rh3+, were found by XPS on the catalyst surface. Metallic Rh was, however, found in higher concentration than oxidized Rh in all cases. The yield to fatty alcohols increased with Sn content, and its maximum value for oleyl and stearyl alcohol was 96%. Furthermore, a higher yield (88.3%) was obtained out of unsaturated fatty alcohol (oleyl alcohol), which has proved to be more valuable than saturated alcohol. This was attributed to an adequate Rh/Sn ratio, which modulates the hydrogenating activity of Rh and makes the metal function more selective for hydrogenation of the carbonyl group. The influence of the support on the catalyst performance decreases as the Sn content increases. The support has a practically negligible influence on the catalyst activity for 4–5 wt.% of Sn content.
A remote hypertension management program clinical algorithm
Authors: Nichols Hunter , Cannon Christopher P. , Scirica Benjamin M. , Fisher Naomi D. L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for death, affecting over one billion people worldwide, yet control rates are poor and stagnant. We developed a remote hypertension management program that leverages digitally transmitted home blood pressure (BP) measurements, algorithmic care pathways, and patient–navigator communications to aid patients in achieving guideline‐directed BP goals.

Methods

Patients with uncontrolled hypertension are identified through provider referrals and electronic health record screening aided by population health managers within the Mass General Brigham (MGB) health system. Non‐licensed patient navigators supervised by pharmacists, nurse practitioners, and physicians engage and educate patients. Patients receive cellular or Bluetooth‐enabled BP devices with which they monitor and transmit scheduled home BP readings. Evidence‐based medication changes are made according to a custom hypertension algorithm approved within a collaborative drug therapy management (CDTM) agreement with MGB and implemented by pharmacists.

Using patient‐specific characteristics, we developed different pathways to optimize medication regimens. The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system‐blocker pathway prescribed ARBs/ACE inhibitors first for patients with diabetes, impaired renal function, and microalbuminuria; the standard pathway started patients on calcium channel blockers. Regimens were escalated frequently, adding thiazide‐type diuretics, and including beta blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists if needed.

Discussion

We have developed an algorithmic approach for the remote management of hypertension with demonstrated success. A focus on algorithmic decision‐making streamlines tasks and responsibilities, easing the potential for scalability of this model. As the backbone of our remote management program, this clinical algorithm can improve BP control and innovate the management of hypertension in large populations.
Rapeseed Oil Based Oleogels for the Improvement of the Fatty Acid Profile Using Cookies as an Example
Authors: Schubert Madline , Erlenbusch Nelli , Wittland Sebastian , Nikolay Sharline , Hetzer Birgit , Matthäus Bertrand
Published: September 2022

In this study rapeseed oil based oleogels with sunflower wax, ethyl cellulose, monoacylglycerols, or mixtures of it as oleogelators are characterized in comparison to conventional bakery margarines or partially hydrogenated peanut fat with regard to their oil‐binding capacity, hardness, and rheological behavior. Oleogels prepared with 5% and 10% sunflower wax and 5% monoacylglycerols with 5% ethyl cellulose, respectively, show comparable properties as the conventional fat phases with regard to the mentioned parameters. The rheological properties reveal that storage and loss moduli of oleogels prepared without sunflower wax are significantly lower in comparison to conventional margarines. In addition, cross‐sectional views allow a very deep insight in the 3D structure of the oleogels via cryogenic scanning electron microscopy. For oleogels consisting of ethyl cellulose, entrapped oil droplets can be visualized and the pore size distribution is established by a semiautomatic approach. The use of oleogels results in a reduction of saturated fatty acids from 29%–47% to 7%–13% and in an increase of polyunsaturated fatty acids of at least 22% in oleogel‐based cookies. Cookies prepared with oleogels are accepted by the consumer, even if the overall evaluation is slightly worse in comparison to the conventional products.

Practical Applications: The application of rapeseed oil based oleogels with sunflower wax, ethyl cellulose, monoacylglyerols, or mixtures is a very good possibility to replace fat phases in bakery products high in saturated fatty acids and to improve the fatty acid profile of the foods. This results in food with a higher content of monounsaturated oleic acid and polyunsaturated linolenic acid recommended for a healthier nutrition.
Determination of nitroimidazole antibiotics based on dispersive solid‐phase extraction combined with capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Yang Jing , Chen Lianfang , Wang Qingying , Mei Xiaolin , Yang Xiupei , Huo Feng
Published: September 2022

For a long time, the detection of nitroimidazole antibiotics (NIABs) has been a research focus in environmental analytical chemistry. In this work, a novel technique for the analysis of nitroimidazoles was established based on capillary electrophoresis (CE). UiO‐66, synthesized using a solvothermal method, was utilized as an adsorbent in the dispersive solid‐phase extraction (DSPE) of five different NIABs. The separation and detection of NIABs in environmental water samples were accomplished using the CE diode array detection method. The optimal extraction conditions were obtained after systematically studying the effects of adsorption time, the amount of extractant, and elution solvent on extraction efficiency. According to the results of the study, the limit of detections of the five NIABs were between 16 and 97 ng/mL, the relative standard deviations were between 0.32% and 0.55%, and the spike recoveries were between 87.43% and 104.8%. This study presents a novel technique for measuring NIABs in complex water samples.
Taylor dispersion analysis of metallic‐based nanoparticles – A short review
Authors: Gouyon Jeremie , Boudier Ariane , Barakat Fatima , Pallotta Arnaud , Clarot Igor
Published: September 2022

Taylor dispersion analysis (TDA) is an interesting tool for nanoparticle (NP) size determination, feasible using simple capillary electrophoresis apparatus. Based upon the radial diffusion of analytes upon a laminar stream, the diffusion coefficient of species is easily estimable. Moreover, TDA is generally more adequate than conventional dynamic light scattering methodologies as it is less dependent on the polydispersity of the sample, leading to accurate measurement and reliable results. This review provides every paper mentioning the use of TDA for metallic‐based NPs size determination. Diverse strategies for the detection of metallic NPs (like UV–visible and inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry – ICP–MS – for instance) and interpretation of the Taylorgrams are discussed. Based upon the literature, advices on future prospects are also indicated, especially for the comparison of TDA results with other classical techniques.
‘It makes you not want to eat’: Perceptions of anti‐obesity public health campaigns in individuals diagnosed with an eating disorder
Authors: Bristow Claire , Simmonds Janette , Allen Kelly‐Ann , McLean Louise
Published: September 2022

Objective

Recent research has highlighted the potentially deleterious effects of anti‐obesity public health campaigns on vulnerable audiences such as those at risk of, or diagnosed with, eating disorders (ED). The qualitative experiences of campaigns in this population group have been little explored.

Methods

Twelve interviews were conducted with participants either currently or previously diagnosed with an ED using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach. Participants were shown a series of real‐world public health campaigns and, using a semi‐structured interview guide, asked about their responses to the images used.

Results

Several themes emerged from the data, including the effect of campaigns on participants, perceived effect on others, and general campaign attributes. It was evident that participants felt that anti‐obesity campaigns had the potential to confirm ED thoughts and behaviours, and could act as potential triggers. Participants also felt that they could impact vulnerable groups (e.g., young audiences) and stigmatise those living in larger bodies.

Conclusion

Campaigns addressing overweight and obesity should consider reframing these conditions and care must be taken to avoid causing potential harm to vulnerable audiences.
Modeling and operation optimization of mine integrated energy system under variable conditions of typical equipment
Authors: Zhang Yong , Wu Xiaokang , Hu Hejuan , Sun Xiaoyan , Gong Dunwei
Published: September 2022

Mine integrated energy system (MIES) promotes the utilization of derived energy, multienergy complementation, and ecological protection, but the variable condition characteristics of key energy conversion equipment bring challenges to its operation optimization. Focused on this, the paper studies a MIES operation optimization model with integrated demand response under variable conditions of typical equipment. First, analyzing the coupling utilization mode of mine energy flow, a MIES operation structure including mine derived‐energy utilization and integrated demand response is constructed. Second, considering the supply characteristics of different derived energy sources, the variable condition dynamic energy efficiency model of typical energy conversion equipment is established. Furthermore, considering the flexible and controllable characteristics of multienergy loads, an integrated demand response mechanism including electric and thermal flexible loads is formed. Finally, the operation optimization model of MIES is constructed with the goal of the lowest operating costs of the system. The GUROBI solver is applied to solve the model, and experimental results under different operating scenarios show that the established MIES operation optimization model effectively improves the economy of system operation.
Study on the hypolipidemic effect of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharide in hyperlipidemia rats based on the regulation of intestinal flora
Authors: Lin Fengyuan , Li Xiao , Guo Xiao , Lu Xuechun , Han Xiao , Xu GuangYu , Du Peige , An Liping
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to observe the effect of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharide (IOP) on blood lipids and its regulation on the intestinal flora in hyperlipidemia rats, and explore the modern biological connotation of IOP in reducing blood lipids. In this study, we obtained the crude IOP by the water extraction and alcohol precipitation method, and then classified it by DEAE ion‐exchange chromatography to obtain the acidic I. obliquus polysaccharide (IOP‐A). After the administration of the IOP‐A, the serum TC, TG, and LDL‐C levels were significantly lower, while the serum HDL‐C levels were significantly higher. The expression of CYP7A1 protein was considerably increased, whereas the expression of SREBP‐1C protein was considerably decreased in the rat hepatic tissue. In addition, the IOP‐A could significantly alleviate the hepatocyte fatty degeneration in the liver lobule of rats. We believe that the IOP‐A can affect the composition of intestinal flora by reducing the relative abundance of Firmicutes and increasing the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes. These findings indicated that the IOP‐A can regulate the dyslipidemia of hyperlipidemia rats, and its mechanism may be through regulating the CYP7A1 and SREBP‐1C expression in the metabolism of lipids, and correcting the imbalance of intestinal flora structure caused by a high‐fat diet.