bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable and Cooperative Catalysis for Enantioselective Pictet‐Spengler Reaction with Varied Nitrogen‐Containing Heterocyclic Carboxaldehydes
Authors: Chan Yuk‐Cheung , Sak Marcus H. , Frank Scott A. , Miller Scott J.
Published: September 2021

Herein we report an organocatalytic enantioselective functionalization of heterocyclic carboxaldehydes via the Pictet–Spengler reaction. Through careful pairing of novel squaramide and Brønsted acid catalysts, our method tolerates a breadth of heterocycles, enabling preparation of a series of heterocycle conjugated β‐(tetrahydro)carbolines in good yield and enantioselectivity. Careful selection of carboxylic acid co‐catalyst is essential for toleration of a variety of regioisomeric heterocycles. Utility is demonstrated via the three‐step stereoselective preparation of pyridine‐containing analogues of potent selective estrogen receptor downregulator and U.S. FDA approved drug Tadalafil.
Nanocarriers for Skin Applications: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Tiwari Neha , Osorio‐Blanco Ernesto Rafael , Sonzogni Ana , Esporrín‐Ubieto David , Wang Huiyi , Calderón Marcelo
Published: September 2021

Skin penetration of active molecules for treatment of diverse diseases is a major field of research owing to the advantages associated with the skin like easy accessibility, reduced systemic‐derived side effects, and increased therapeutic efficacy. Despite these advantages, dermal drug delivery is generally challenging due to the low skin permeability of therapeutics. Although various methods have been developed to improve skin penetration and permeation of therapeutics, they are usually aggressive and could lead to irreversible damage to the stratum corneum. Nanosized carrier systems represent an alternative approach for current technologies, with minimal damage to the natural barrier function of skin. In this Review, the use of nanoparticles to deliver drug molecules, genetic material, and vaccines into the skin is discussed. In addition, nanotoxicology studies and the recent clinical development of nanoparticles are highlighted to shed light on their potential to undergo market translation.
Influence of foam density on burning behavior of polymer bead foams
Authors: Weinbrenner Marius , Weber Regino , Neumeyer Thomas , Altstädt Volker
Published: September 2021

Foamed plastics are increasingly employed due to the high demand in functional materials with reduced weight. Bead foams in general offer low weight and excellent thermal insulation properties combined with extremely high freedom in design. Though foams show increased risk of ignition and heightened heat release, literature on burning behavior is rather limited. Therefore, this study investigates density‐dependent burning behavior of commercial bead foams like expanded polypropylene (EPP) and expanded modified polyphenyleneether (E‐mPPE) by cone calorimetry. The results are compared to existing studies on the density‐dependent burning behavior of different foams, mainly expanded polystyrene and foamed polyurethane. The importance of density as a characteristic is highlighted by the linear dependence of total heat emission on density for all investigated polymers, making a prediction of thermal loads possible. The peak heat release rate of flame‐retarded EPP and E‐mPPE was found not to be dependent on density, indicating an increased homogeneity by addition of flame retardant.
Advanced dielectric elastomer based on optimized thermoplastic polyurethane–styrene ethylene butylene styrene blend: Experiment and simulation
Authors: Zhu Jing , Zhang Lu , Zhao Yu , Yin Li‐Juan , Zha Jun‐Wei , Dang Zhi‐Min
Published: September 2021

Increasing the actuation characteristics of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) under low electric field strength without compromising the elasticity and breakdown strength is still one of the great challenges in application field. Herein, we propose a simple, efficient, and controllable strategy to prepare dielectric elastomers with intrinsically good integrated properties by introducing styrene ethylene butylene styrene (SEBS) in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Combined with experiments and molecular dynamics simulation, we find that the SEBS is uniformly dispersed in TPU matrix and a good interface structure is formed by pi–pi interaction and entanglement. The above characteristics lead to the destruction of the hydrogen bond network of TPU and the formation of single aggregation structure. Consequently, much decreased Young's modulus (Y) and enhanced breakdown field (Ebr) are achieved. Especially, when the content of SEBS is 4.76 wt%, the blend shows a desirable Y of 2.4 MPa and a much improved Ebr (118 kV mm−1), which is about 59% lower and 42% higher than those of TPU, respectively. As a result, the maximum electrical strain area of the dielectric blend elastomer reaches 4.7%, which is 250% higher than that of pure TPU under the same electric field strength.
Botulinum toxin in the masseter muscle: Lingering effects of denervation
Authors: Baldwin Michael C. , Liu Zi Jun , Rafferty Katherine L. , Keith Andrew , Tamasas Basma , Kaiyala Karl , Herring Susan W.
Published: September 2021

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are paralytic agents used to treat a variety of conditions in jaw muscles. Although their effect is considered temporary, there are reports of persistent functional changes. Using rabbits that received BoNT injection in one masseter muscle, the recovery of neuromuscular connection was investigated using nerve stimulation to evoke an electromyographic (EMG) response, and the recovery of muscle fibers was investigated using histological morphometry and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) immunohistochemistry. One month after treatment, evoked EMG was greatly reduced in both amplitude and duration, indicating that little reinnervation had taken place. Muscle fibers were atrophied and collagenous tissue was increased. Three months after treatment, evoked EMG duration was normal, indicating that at least some neuromuscular junctions were functional. Histologically, some muscle fibers were hypertrophied, some were still atrophied, and some appeared to have died. Fibrosis was still apparent amid slight increases in dividing cells and regenerating fibers. The histological effects of BoNT were evident although attenuated at a distance of about 1 cm from the injection level, but no regional differences could be discerned for the evoked EMGs. In conclusion, there were persistent muscular deficits seen 3 months after BoNT treatment that may have been caused by the failure of some affected muscle fibers to become reinnervated.
Performance analysis using economic model predictive control for hydrolysis of tallow fat
Authors: Thirunavukarasu Narayani , Panda Rames C.
Published: September 2021

Tallow is a resource for glycerine and oleochemicals produced by subsequent hydrolysis, saponification, or transesterification. Since steam hydrolysis, an industrial practice, uses continuous high pressure and temperature, is energy intensive; this has been replaced by use of pressurized hot water from top and bottom of hydrolyzing tower. The fat and water form continuous phase in the heat exchange part where hydrolysis takes place in approximately 3 h. The degree of hydrolysis depends on vapor–liquid equilibrium of water which is a function of temperature and pressure. It has been found that degree of hydrolysis is feasible at 256°C. Continuous countercurrent flow is maintained by the density difference between the two phases in the heat exchange sections. There is a need for improving degree of hydrolysis along the safe operating region in the temperature–pressure domain of energy‐utility spectrum by using model predictive control (MPC). A nonlinear mathematical model, representing glycerine concentration and temperature in fat and aqueous phases, for the fat hydrolysis system is used for system identification and synthesizing model‐based tuning rules for the said process. Auto‐tuning algorithms (multiloop with IMC‐PID–Laurent tuning) are developed for PID tuning. The conventional control algorithms (IMC‐PI and MPC) focus on error minimization and performance optimization; hence, economic model predictive control (EMPC) is adopted (incorporating reaction kinetics into objective function) to optimize the process utility via improved energy efficiency. A closed‐loop comparison (PI, MPC, and economic MPC) of performance indices reveals that economic MPC gives satisfactory results.
Robust approximate constraint‐following control design for typical manipulator systems
Authors: Zhen ShengChao , Peng Xin , Wang MianHao , Liu XiaoLi , Huang Kang , Shen WeiLei , Yin Jian
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the constraint equation is written into the second‐order form, and the additional generalized constraint binding force is added to the unconstrained system from the constraint equation to obtain the dynamic equation. Based on the dynamic equation, we model performance requirements as servo constraints by using the robust approximate constraint‐following servo control. In other words, the constraints are generated from the servo control which makes the system follow the constraints approximately. Finally, for verifying the effectiveness of the controller, we apply it into a two‐degree‐of‐freedom manipulator system.
Purification, characterization, and antifungal activity of Bacillus cereus strain NK91 chitinase from rhizospheric soil samples of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Thakur Nirja , Nath Amarjit K , Chauhan Anjali , Gupta Rakesh
Published: September 2021

Newly isolated Bacillus cereus strain NK91 was characterized for extracellular chitinase production. Partially purified chitinase showed a molecular weight of 43.7 kDa in SDS–PAGE analysis. The optimum pH and temperature for the partially purified enzyme were 7.0 and 40°C, respectively. The addition of Mn2+ resulted in a 21% increase in enzyme activity as compared to the control. The Vmax and Km of the enzyme were determined as 76.9 μmol/min and 0.07 mg/mL, respectively. This enzyme exhibited stronger antifungal activity towards Fusarium oxysporum (66.7%), Rhizoctonia solani (64.6%), and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (63%), and transmission electron microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy analysis showed considerable changes in cell wall structure with the treatment of purified chitinase as compared to control. Therefore, this enzyme reveals its biocontrol potential against potent phytopathogens in agriculture that can be helpful in swapping harmful as well as expensive fungicides.
Cardiovascular function during early development is suppressed by cinnamon flavored, nicotine‐free, electronic cigarette vapor
Authors: Piechowski Jennifer M. , Bagatto Brian
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Vaping products continue to remain popular among teens and young adults despite an overall lack of research regarding their potential health effects. While much research focuses on respiratory effects associated with electronic cigarette use, their effects on other systems, including embryonic cardiovascular function and development due to maternal use during pregnancy, also needs to be evaluated. Here, we assessed the impact of nicotine‐free, cinnamon and chocolate flavored, electronic cigarette vapor on cardiovascular function during early development by exposing wild‐type zebrafish embryos to electronic cigarette vapor.

Methods

Vapor was produced from a second‐generation style vape pen and was incorporated into dechlorinated water at 0.6, 12, and 25 puffs/L, where one puff equals 55 ml of vapor. Vapor infused water was distributed among flasks to which zebrafish embryos were added. Exposures lasted for 24 hours and cardiovascular videos were recorded. Videos were analyzed and end systolic volume, end diastolic volume, stroke volume, heart rate, cardiac output, red blood cell density, and arterial and venous blood vessel diameters were measured.

Results

Here, it was found that embryonic exposure to nicotine free, cinnamon, and not chocolate, flavored electronic cigarette vapor at 25 puffs/L significantly decreased all cardiovascular parameters measured, with the exception of blood vessel diameter. No significant effect on any measured parameter was observed at 0.6 or 12 puffs/L with either flavor.

Conclusion

These results indicate that cinnamon flavored electronic cigarette vapor can affect cardiovascular function during early development, even in the absence of nicotine, particularly at elevated exposure concentrations.
Hybride Bahnbrücke Bögl – wenn Innovation in Serie geht
Authors: Berndorfer Claus
Published: September 2021

Der Bundesverkehrswegeplan (Schiene) 2030 präferiert in starkem Maße den Ausbau von Eisenbahninfrastruktur vor dem Neubau. Damit vollzieht sich eine deutliche Abkehr von der bisherigen Position, die dem Neubau einen deutlichen Vorrang gab. Dieser Neupositionierung in der Verkehrspolitik muss auch die Bauwirtschaft Rechnung tragen, indem mit der Weiterentwicklung der Baukonzepte und Bauverfahren dieser Herausforderung – Ausbau vor Neubau – und damit verstärkt auch dem Bauen unter Beibehaltung einer hohen Verfügbarkeit der Infrastruktur entsprochen werden kann. Daneben hat die Deutsche Bahn das bisher größte Instandsetzungsprogramm ihrer Geschichte aufgelegt und beabsichtigt, in den nächsten zehn Jahren bis zu 600 Brückenbauwerke jährlich auszutauschen. Größere Beeinträchtigungen des laufenden Bahnbetriebs sollen dabei möglichst vermieden werden. Der Austausch der Bauwerke findet somit überwiegend „unter rollendem Rad” statt. Streckensperrungen sind in der Regel nur innerhalb langfristig festgelegter Wochenendsperrpausen möglich. Zur Unterstützung der Umsetzung dieser Programme bietet die Firmengruppe Max Bögl der Deutschen Bahn mit der „Hybriden Bahnbrücke Bögl“ ein innovatives Baukastensystem an, bei dem die Vorteile der seriellen Fertigung in puncto Bauzeit, Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit voll ausgeschöpft werden (vgl. Bild 1).
KI‐gestützte Qualitätssicherung für die Fließfertigung von UHFB‐Stabelementen
Authors: Tritschel Franz Ferdinand , Markowski Jan , Penner Nikolai , Rolfes Raimund , Lohaus Ludger , Haist Michael
Published: September 2021

Schneller Präzisionsbau erfordert Modulbauweisen mit leichten, gut handhabbaren Bauelementen, die mit hohen Wiederholungsraten hergestellt werden können. Ein modularisiertes Stabwerk stellt eine solche Bauweise dar. Damit die Stabelemente kontinuierlich, schnell und wirtschaftlich hergestellt werden können, braucht es gegenüber dem klassischen Stahlbetonbau neue Fertigungs‐ und Konstruktionskonzepte, bei denen die Konstruktion hocheffizient ausgelegt sein muss (form follows force). Darüber hinaus muss die Konstruktion konsequent die Anforderungen aus einer schnellen Serienfertigung erfüllen. Für solche neuen Fertigungsprozesse bieten sich Qualitätssicherungskontrollen mit Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) an, die ihre Daten aus einer Vielzahl unterschiedlicher Sensoren und Sensorarten gewinnen. Eine solche KI‐gestützte Produktion wird durch ein Künstliches Neuronales Netz (KNN) umgesetzt, das gegenüber konventionellen Ansätzen die Möglichkeit bietet, nichtlineare Zusammenhänge von heterogenen Daten abbilden zu können. In diesem Beitrag wird die KNN‐basierte Form der Qualitätssicherung (QS) an fließgefertigten Stabelementen exemplarisch für die Beurteilung von Betonoberfläche und Geometrie beschrieben, die einen ersten Schritt in eine Prozessregelung darstellen kann. Erste Untersuchungen haben gezeigt, dass damit sehr effizient auch kleine Fehlstellen eindeutig erkannt und lokalisiert werden können.
Extrem kurze Bauzeiten dank vorgefertigter Deckenelemente mit integrierten Haustechnikkomponenten
Authors: Friedrich Thomas
Published: September 2021

Die Optimierung von Hochbaudecken bietet ausreichend Potenzial für eine schnelle Bauweise. Bereits die Entwicklung der Stahlbetondecken anhand der verschiedenen statischen Systeme zeigt, wie die Aufwendungen für Lohn und Material reduziert werden können. Erst der in jüngster Vergangenheit erfolgte Wechsel vom Vollquerschnitt zum Sandwichquerschnitt eröffnete neue Optionen und ermöglichte multifunktionale Deckenkonstruktionen, nachdem auch die Komponenten der Haustechnik in den tragenden Querschnitt integriert wurden. Allerdings kann eine solche Platte nur als vorgefertigtes Element im Werk hergestellt werden. Der damit verbundene Einsatz von vorgespannter Bewehrung im Spannbett erlaubt weitere Einsparungen. Erst diese Entwicklung führt zu Reduktionen an Lohn, Material und Bauzeit. Die bei konsequenter Umsetzung dieser Technik erzielbaren Vorteile wurden beispielhaft an einem aktuellen Großbauvorhaben in der Stadt München umgesetzt. Für insgesamt fünf einzelne Bürogebäude wurden die Geschossdecken von gesamt ca. 47.000 m2 in dem Zeitraum von 39 Wochen hergestellt. Pro Woche wurden ca. 1200 m2 und ca. 93 vorgefertigte Deckenelemente geliefert und eingebaut. In den vorgefertigten Platten wurden die Komponenten der Haustechnik bereits werkseitig integriert. Auf der Baustelle müssen lediglich die Leitungen gekoppelt werden. Zur Beschleunigung des Bauablaufs trägt auch die Verwendung einer vorgefertigten Rollbewehrung für die obere Lage bei. Nur mit einer abgestimmten Planung kann dieser Bauprozess erfolgreich umgesetzt werden.
GWAS for genetics of complex quantitative traits: Genome to pangenome and SNPs to SVs and k‐mers
Authors: Gupta Pushpendra K.
Published: September 2021

The development of improved methods for genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) for genetics of quantitative traits has been an active area of research during the last 25 years. This activity initially started with the use of mixed linear model (MLM), which was variously modified. During the last decade, however, with the availability of high throughput next generation sequencing (NGS) technology, development and use of pangenomes and novel markers including structural variations (SVs) and k‐mers for GWAS has taken over as a new thrust area of research. Pangenomes and SVs are now available in humans, livestock, and a number of plant species, so that these resources along with k‐mers are being used in GWAS for exploring additional genetic variation that was hitherto not available for analysis. These developments have resulted in significant improvement in GWAS methodology for detection of marker‐trait associations (MTAs) that are relevant to human healthcare and crop improvement.
Homonymous visual field defect and retinal thinning after occipital stroke
Authors: Rashid Avan Sabir , Rashid Darian , Yang Ge , Link Hans , Gauffin Helena , Huang‐Link Yumin
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Stroke is the most common cause of homonymous visual field defects (VFD). About half of the stroke patients recover from VFD. However, relationship between VFD and retinal changes remains elusive.

Purpose

To investigate the association between occurrence of VFD, changes of macular ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) and its axon retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) detected with optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Patients and methods

The study consists of retrospective review of medical records and follow‐up examinations. Patients with acute occipital stroke were registered. VFD was identified with confrontation and/or perimetry tests at the onset. At follow‐up, the patients were examined with visual field tests and OCT measurements.

Results

Thirty‐six patients met the inclusion criteria. At onset, 26 patients (72%) had VFD. At follow‐up >1 year after stroke, 13 patients (36%) had remaining VFD: 5 had homonymous hemianopia, 5 had homonymous quadrantanopia, and 3 had homonymous scotomas. Average thickness of GCIPL and RNFL were significantly reduced in each eye in patients with VFD compared to non‐VFD (NVFD) (p < .01 for all comparisons). Thickness of superior and inferior RNFL quadrants was significantly reduced in VFD compared to NVFD (p < .01 for both). Among these 13 patients, 4 had characteristic homonymous quadrant‐GCIPL thinning, 2 had characteristic homonymous hemi‐GCIPL thinning, and 7 had diffuse GCIPL thinning.

Conclusion

GCIPL and RNFL thinning were observed in the patients with VFD. GCIPL thinning appears in two forms: atypical diffuse thinning, or homonymous hemi‐GCIPL thinning. Examining GCIPL and RNFL provides easy and reliable objective measures and is therefore proposed to be of predictive value on visual function.
Surface Oxidized Ag Nanofilms Towards Highly Effective CO2 Reduction
Authors: Xie Zhongyuan , Qiu Yuan , Gao Sanshuang , Sun Jiaqiang , Cao Huanqi , Zhang Shusheng , Luo Jun , Liu Xijun
Published: September 2021

The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction (converting redundant CO2 into carbon‐neutral fuels) holds a great potential to battle the energy and environmental crisis. The Ag‐based materials stand out from the pool of catalysts because of its high Faradic efficiencies for CO formation. In this work, thin Ag polycrystalline film was synthesized on carbon papers by a simple vacuum evaporation method. After 15 minutes of O3 treatment under ambient temperature, the Ag electrocatalysts can produce CO with a Faradic efficiency of up to 93.3 % at −0.9 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (vs. RHE), which is higher than that of pristine Ag. In addition, the Ag electrode retained ∼90 % catalytic selectivity for CO after a 10‐hour test. The characterizations show that the surface AgxO layer on Ag was reduced to Ag0, which not only reduces the activation energy barrier of the initial electron transfer but also provides an increased number of active sites for the reduction of CO2 to CO.
Digital active gate drive of SiC MOSFETs for controlling switching behavior—Preparation toward universal digitization of power switching
Authors: Takayama Hajime , Okuda Takafumi , Hikihara Takashi
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a digital active gate driver for SiC power MOSFETs is proposed. High‐frequency switching with SiC power MOSFETs can realize an integrated power circuit with higher power density. However, the large surge voltage and ringing caused by the fast switching will lose the reliability of the device and increase electromagnetic interference (EMI) problems. To achieve high‐frequency switching without these drawbacks, an active gate driver based on the architecture of a digital‐to‐analog converter has been designed. The gate‐source voltage waveform of the MOSFET is generated directly and flexibly by a multibit gate signal sequence, considering the device characteristics and a variety of circuit conditions. Effective gate signal sequences are investigated by focusing on the switching trajectory on the state space of the device, which is discretely controlled through successive transitions between operating points. Experimental and simulated results confirm that the proposed gate driver effectively suppresses and regulates the surge voltage and ringing during turn‐off.
Characteristics of the natural flow regime paradigm explain occurrence of imperiled Great Plains fishes
Authors: Nguyen Erin , Perkin Joshuah S. , Smith Ryan , Mayes Kevin B. , Trungale Joe
Published: September 2021

The natural flow regime (NFR) paradigm posits that naturally occurring temporal fluctuations in streamflow are necessary for maintaining natural ecological communities. Conservation actions guided by the paradigm have contributed to stream organism conservation on a global scale, yet NFR applications in highly altered Great Plains streams are lacking. We analyzed historical (1980–2017) fish occurrence and flow data from sixteen gage locations across three Great Plains river basins with the goal of relating flow indices calculated for one year prior to each fish collection with the occurrence of fishes belonging to the highly imperiled pelagic‐broadcast spawning (PBS) reproductive guild. We fit random forest models using flow indices, gage identification, and watershed area as predictor variables and PBS fish occurrence as the response variable for all suspected or confirmed PBS fishes in each basin. Results revealed that flow indices from all NFR characteristics were useful for predicting PBS fish occurrence, but the identity of the most important flow indices varied by species and river basin. We also found that gage location was an important predictor variable, indicating flow–ecology relationships are spatially contingent and suggesting the influence of other factors that vary spatially (e.g., river fragmentation and water quality). Partial dependence plots identified thresholds in flow indices such as the timing of maximum flows and fall rate that may be associated with the presence or absence of PBS fishes, and these plots can be used to identify flow index target values to benefit conservation efforts. Time series predictions for likelihood of occurrence at a single gage in the Brazos River basin revealed a positive correlation between likelihood of occurrence and non‐drought years for three of four species present, supporting recent findings that drought suppresses PBS fish populations. This study provides insight into the flow requirements of some of the most imperiled stream fishes in North America and contributes to environmental flow science on a global scale by establishing a robust methodology for delineating flow–ecology relationships.
Experimental confirmation of effects of leaf litter type and light on tadpole performance for two priority amphibians
Authors: Burrow Angela K. , Maerz John C.
Published: September 2021

Isolated wetlands embedded within longleaf pine savannas support a high proportion of regional biodiversity including many amphibian species. Today, remnant isolated wetlands are often overgrown and hydrologically altered due to fire exclusion or incompatible, cool season fire regimes. In the absence of warm season fires when wetlands are dry, shrubs and trees succeed herbaceous plants, which alters wetland productivity via effects on light and detritus quality. We used a factorial aquatic mesocosm study to test the effects of altered detritus and shade on the growth, development, and survival of tadpoles of two priority amphibian species: gopher frogs (Rana capito) and ornate chorus frogs (Pseudacris ornata). Gopher frog survival was higher among maidencane, sedge, and pine treatments compared to oak and sweetgum treatments. While gopher frog larval periods were lowest in the sedge treatment, there was a nominal general effect of litter type on gopher frog larval periods, growth rates, and mass at metamorphosis. Shading had a nominal and inconsistent effect on gopher frog growth rates, but did extend larval periods in all litter treatments, decreased survival in all litter treatments except oak, and decreased mass at metamorphosis in all litter treatments except pine and sweetgum. Ornate chorus frog survival was minimally affected by shading and litter treatments, but growth rates and mass at metamorphosis were highest in maidencane and sedge treatments, and larval periods were extended with shading in all litter treatments. Shading also decreased growth rates in maidencane and sedge litters and decreased mass at metamorphosis in pine and sweetgum litters. Our results demonstrate that succession of isolated wetlands can reduce tadpole performance for two priority species both through changes in leaf litter and shading, though the effect on survival, larval growth, larval period, and size at metamorphosis can differ between species. These results support management recommendations to restore and maintain open canopy, grassy conditions in isolated wetlands for conservation of priority amphibian species.
Interfacial solar evaporation driven lead removal from a contaminated soil
Authors: Wu Pan , Wu Xuan , Xu Haolan , Owens Gary
Published: September 2021

Interfacial solar steam generation is a green and sustainable technology which has been intensively studied in the fields of seawater desalination and wastewater purification for clean water production. Here, this technology is further developed for soil remediation. A new photothermal evaporator is designed to accelerate the extraction of lead (Pb) from soil solution, thereby successfully rapidly remediating a Pb contaminated soil. Within 2 weeks, this solar‐driven evaporative remediation (SDER) simultaneously decreases the bioavailable Pb fraction by 38.4% (from 359 to 221 mg kg−1) with no excessive nutrient loss nor secondary pollution. Post remediation plant assay indicates that the treated soil is significantly less phytotoxic, with shoot/root Pb contents decreasing by 50%. Since SDER involves no external energy input; other than solar irradiation; ongoing operating costs are low leading to significant potential for sustainable practical applications. Overall, this study demonstrates for the first time that interfacial solar evaporation can be successfully applied to soil remediation.

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Anthropogenic sediment traps and network dislocation in a lowland UK river
Authors: Foster Ian D. L. , Boardman John , Evans Jennine L. , Copeland‐Phillips Ruth , Vadher Atish N. , Wright Seeseana , Collins Adrian L. , Manning Christopher
Published: September 2021

Farm ponds, reservoirs and in‐stream weirs exist in most lowland UK river catchments and often dominate natural features such as lakes, wetlands, floodplains and debris dams. Artificial structures have served multiple purposes, including provision of power for historic flour milling and iron ore crushing and provision of water for medieval fishponds, canals, crop irrigation and potable supply. Although unintentional, they can significantly affect longitudinal connectivity, including sediment delivery pathways, through river catchments.

We report results from three spatially nested case studies that were undertaken in the Rother catchment, ranging in scale from small farm ponds of a few square metres in area, to larger in‐stream weirs and reservoirs (locally called ponds). Reservoirs typically trap sediment, decreasing sediment availability downstream, while inducing valley sediment accumulation upstream. We focus on the quantity and particle size characteristics of sediment trapped behind these structures compared to catchment soils and to sediments that are transported through, and deposited in, ‘natural’ gravel‐bed reaches.

At all scales our results demonstrate that sediment trapping and release are particle size specific. Fine to coarse sands (125 μm to 2 mm diameter) and coarser sediments are retained behind structures at all scales, while silts and clays (<63 μm diameter) and organic matter are generally depleted in the stored sediment. Even though 75% of the surveyed reservoirs have very low estimated trap efficiencies (<5%), they slowly fill over time with sediment.

An important management question relates to the likely benefits of impoundment, structure or sediment removal, and whether fine (here defined as <63 μm) or coarser (>63 μm) sediment is a priority for management.
CO2 separation of a novel Ultem‐based mixed matrix membrane incorporated with Ni2+‐exchanged zeolite X
Authors: Nematolahi Kimiya , Salehi Ehsan , Ebadi Amooghin Abtin , Sanaeepur Hamidreza
Published: September 2021

In this study, polyetherimide (Ultem) was chosen as a polymeric matrix, and micron‐sized Ni2+‐exchanged nano‐porous NaX zeolite was selected as an inorganic filler to fabricate novel mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for CO2 separation. Fabricated membranes were evaluated by Differential scanning calorimeter, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray. The influences of filler loading (0–5 wt.%) and feed pressure (2–10 bar) on gas separation properties were surveyed. CO2/N2 ideal selectivity of 3 wt.% NiX loaded MMM (optimum MMM) was increased to 34 (about 36%) compared to 25 for the pristine membrane. Furthermore, CO2 permeability was improved by about 45%, from 1.3 Barrer for the pure membrane to 1.88 Barrer for MMM containing 3 wt.% functionalized filler. These improvements originate from a combination of the inherent surface diffusion mechanism of zeolite X and reversible reaction between free orbitals of transition metal ions (Ni2+) and electron pairs of CO2 molecules. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pooled analysis of nivolumab treatment in patients with recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in the United States and Germany
Authors: Singh Prianka , McDonald Laura , Waldenberger Daniela , Welslau Manfred , von der Heyde Eyck , Gauler Thomas , Dietz Andreas
Published: September 2021

Background

In the Phase‐III clinical trial, CheckMate 141, nivolumab significantly improved survival versus standard of care in patients with platinum‐refractory recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M SCCHN).

Methods

This pooled analysis investigated the real‐world effectiveness of nivolumab, following prior platinum‐based therapy, in patients with R/M SCCHN from the United States (US) Flatiron Health database and German HANNA prospective observational study.

Results

Overall, 782 patients (56% US; 44% Germany) were included. Median overall survival (OS) was 8.71 months, and progression‐free survival was 4.11 months. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status 0 or 1, platinum sensitivity, and older age were associated with longer OS, in which number of prior lines of therapy had no significant effect.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate survival benefits of nivolumab in patients with R/M SCCHN in the real‐world setting. The observed real‐world effectiveness of nivolumab aligns with the efficacy of nivolumab in CheckMate 141.
Comparison of first‐line treatments of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma according to regimen: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Jinchul , Cho Jinhyun , Byeon Seonggyu , Kim Won Seog , Kim Seok Jin
Published: September 2021

Peripheral T‐cell lymphomas (PTCLs) are known to have an aggressive clinical course and grave prognosis. Several recommended first‐line treatment regimens are available, but identification of the superior treatment remain elusive. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine which study‐level factors and group of regimens affect survival outcomes. The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to January 2021, and phase II or III clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of chemotherapy regimens were included. Random effects models were used to estimate 3‐year overall survival rate, complete remission rate, and subgroup differences. Meta‐regressions were carried out with adjustments for relevant covariates. Overall, 34 cohorts from 28 studies comprising 1424 PTCL patients were included in the pooled analysis. Chemotherapy regimens were divided into four groups: cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone (CHOP), CHOP plus etoposide, gemcitabine‐based, and others. The pooled 3‐year overall survival rate was 0.49 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43–0.54) for CHOP, 0.61 (95% CI 0.52–0.70) for CHOP plus etoposide, 0.39 (95% CI 0.30–0.47) for gemcitabine‐based, and 0.61 (95% CI 0.44–0.78) for others. CHOP plus etoposide was significantly better than CHOP, with the latter used as a reference (coefficient of 0.11; p = 0.035), with adjustment for the proportion of International Prognostic Index score 4‐5 in meta‐regression analysis. Although grossly divided groups were pooled and analyzed, among four regimen groups for frontline PTCL treatment CHOP plus etoposide showed better survival than CHOP.
Embedded researchers' purpose and practice: Current perspectives from Australia
Authors: Mickan Sharon , Coates Dominiek
Published: September 2021

Objective

The embedded researcher model proposes that if research is co‐produced with academics, clinical staff will have greater engagement with and ownership of the research findings, and they will be able to integrate evidence in practice. This paper describes the role and purpose of embedded researchers in Australian healthcare settings.

Methods

A purposive sample of current and former embedded researchers were invited to participate in an exploratory online survey. Embedded researchers were defined as individuals with research qualifications who worked, or had worked, for at least 30% of their time in a healthcare organisation doing research or research capacity building.

Results

Most embedded researchers described a dual purpose, in building clinicians' capacity for research while also undertaking clinical research. Only a small proportion of respondents described their purpose as supporting and improving clinical practice. Most embedded researchers described working to both traditional academic key performance indicators and a complementary range of clinical performance and healthcare service indicators.

Conclusion

Embedded researchers provide more research development and engagement in health services than is recognised or currently reported. In addition to traditional academic indicators, they described a broad range of clinical and health service indicators which measured capacity building.
Thermal performance analysis of non‐Newtonian fluid transport through turbine discs
Authors: Akinshilo Akinbowale T. , Sanusi Michael , Sobamowo Musibau G. , Olorunnisola Abraham E.
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the analytical investigation of non‐Newtonian fluid flow through a turbine disc with a heat generation effect is considered. The flow mechanics through the turbine disc is modeled using a coupled system of higher‐order partial equations, which are transformed into ordinary order utilizing proper similarity transforms. Governing models are analyzed using the variation iteration and homotopy perturbation analytical methods. As observed from the results, the study shows enhancement of heat generation for non‐Newtonian fluid flow through turbine disc, reveals abating thermal distribution. More so, the graphical expression shows that heat generation improves up till mid‐disc. Thereafter, an increasing trend toward the fluid injection surface is observed. Validation of analytical solutions with numerical analysis boosts confidence in this study, which may be used to provide further insights into the engineering science of non‐Newtonian flow of hydraulic/lube oil in practical applications, such as hydraulic couplings.
Performance of oral HPV DNA, oral HPV mRNA and circulating tumor HPV DNA in the detection of HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer and cancer of unknown primary
Authors: Tanaka Hidenori , Suzuki Motoyuki , Takemoto Norihiko , Fukusumi Takahito , Eguchi Hirotaka , Takai Erina , Kanai Haruka , Tatsumi Mitsuaki , Horie Masafumi , Takenaka Yukinori , Yachida Shinichi , Inohara Hidenori
Published: September 2021

A biomarker that is useful for the detection of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) and cancer of unknown primary (CUP) is indispensable. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of HPV DNA and mRNA in oral gargle samples and circulating tumor HPV16 DNA (ctHPV16DNA) in blood samples. Oral HPV DNA and mRNA were analyzed using commercially available HPV assays of the GENOSEARCH HPV31 and Aptima, respectively. ctHPV16DNA was analyzed using in‐house droplet digital polymerase chain reaction. Seventy‐four patients with OPC and eight patients with CUP were included. The sensitivity and specificity of oral HPV DNA, oral HPV mRNA, and ctHPV16DNA were 82% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 66‐92) and 100% (95% CI = 88‐100), 85% (95% CI = 69‐94) and 94% (95% CI = 73‐100), and 93% (95% CI = 81‐99) and 97% (95% CI = 84‐100), respectively, for HPV16‐related OPC, while those were 20% (95% CI = 1‐72) and 100% (95% CI = 3‐100), 0% (95% CI = 0‐52) and 100% (95% CI = 3‐100), and 100% (95% CI = 54‐100) and 100% (95% CI = 16‐100), respectively, for HPV16‐related CUP. The sensitivity of ctHPV16DNA for HPV16‐related OPC was higher than that of oral biomarkers, though the difference was not statistically significant. ctHPV16DNA remarkably correlated with the anatomic extent of disease, total metabolic tumor volume and HPV16 copy number per tumor genome in patients with HPV16‐related OPC/CUP, whereas oral biomarkers did not. In conclusion, ctHPV16DNA is a potentially promising biomarker for HPV16‐related OPC, while further studies are required for HPV16‐related CUP.
Symptom variability in depersonalization–derealization disorder: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Millman L. S. Merritt , Hunter Elaine C. M. , Orgs Guido , David Anthony S. , Terhune Devin B.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Depersonalization–derealization disorder (DDD) is characterized by diverse symptomatology overlapping with anxiety and dissociative disorders, but the sources of this variability are poorly understood. This study aims to determine whether symptom heterogeneity is attributable to the presence of latent subgroups.

Method

We applied latent profile analysis to psychometric measures of anxiety, depersonalization–derealization, and dissociation in 303 DDD patients.

Results

The analysis yielded evidence for five discrete subgroups: three of varying severity levels and two moderate‐to‐severe classes characterized by differential dissociative symptoms. The five classes reliably differed on several nondissociative symptoms, comorbidities, and factors precipitating their diagnosis but did not significantly differ in other symptoms including anxiety.

Conclusion

These results suggest the presence of three distinct DDD subtypes in the upper severity range that are distinguished by differential expression of detachment and compartmentalization symptoms. Further elucidation of these subtypes has potential implications for the etiology, mechanisms, and treatment of DDD.
Investigation into the prevalent CRISPR–Cas systems among the Aeromonas genus
Authors: Baliga Pallavi , Shekar Malathi , TG Puneeth , SK Girisha
Published: September 2021

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) is a prokaryotic adaptive immune system that checks invasion by mobile genetic elements through nuclease targeting. In this study, we investigated the occurrence, diversity, and features of the CRISPR system in the genus Aeromonas using bioinformatics tools. Only 13 out of 122 complete genomes (10.66%) of the genus Aeromonas from the NCBI GenBank database harbored the CRISPR system. The Type I–F system was the most prevalent CRISPR system among the Aeromonads, followed by the Type I–E system. Only one strain harbored a Type I–C CRISPR system. Among the Aeromonads, Aeromonas caviae (22.7%) and Aeromonas veronii (20%) had a higher prevalence rate of the complete CRISPR system. The analysis of direct repeat (DR) sequences showed that all could form stable RNA secondary structures. A phylogenetic tree generated for the Cas1 protein classified CRISPR subtypes into three distinct clusters. Among the 748 spacers investigated, 41.98% and 17.25% showed perfect homology to phage and plasmid sequences, respectively. Some arrays had duplicated spacers. The CRISPR loci are closely linked to antibiotic resistance genes in most strains. Collectively, our results would contribute to research on antibiotic resistance in the Aeromonas group, and provide new insights into the diversity and evolution of the CRISPR–Cas system.
Decadal shift of the influence of Arctic Oscillation on dust weather frequency in spring over the Middle East during 1974–2019
Authors: Sun Yijie , Mao Rui , Gong Dao‐Yi , Li Ying , Kim Seong‐Joong , Zhang Xiao‐Xiao , Zhang Xuezhen , Hamidi Mehdi
Published: September 2021

Dust weather has an impact on human health and climate change in the Middle East. In this study, we examined the influence of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) on spring dust weather frequency over the Middle East at an interannual timescale during 1974–2019. The results show that there was an interdecadal shift of the influence of AO on dust weather frequency in the Middle East, with a correlation coefficient between the AO index and dust weather frequency changing from −0.52 during 1974–1994 period (P1) to 0.49 during 1995–2013 period (P2). During P1, negative correlations between AO index and dust weather frequency were found over the northern Arabian Peninsula, and during P2, positive ones were mostly over the central and southwestern Arabian Peninsula. In the lower and middle troposphere, negative geopotential height anomalies are associated with the negative phase of the AO over South Europe during P1, whereas negative geopotential height anomalies are associated with the positive phase of the AO over Northeast Africa during P2. The negative height anomalies resulted in the occurrence of more low‐pressure systems and, thus, dust weather in the Middle East. It is found that the interdecadal shift of the influence of the AO on dust weather was related to an AO‐related northward displacement of wave train propagation during P2. Specifically, during P1 period, the northern branch of AO‐related wave train dominated over the middle latitudes of the North Atlantic across South Europe to the Arabian Peninsula, which resulted in the negative height anomaly over South Europe in the lower and middle troposphere. However, during P2 period, the AO‐related wave train propagation moved northward, and then, the southern branch of the AO‐related wave train dominated over the low latitudes of the North Atlantic across northern Africa to the Arabian Peninsula, which played an important role in the formation of the negative height anomalies over Northeast Africa.
The efficacy and safety of low‐energy carbon dioxide fractional laser use in the treatment of early‐stage pediatric hypertrophic scars: A prospective, randomized, split‐scar study
Authors: Won TaeHo , Ma QianYu , Chen ZongAn , Gao Zhen , Wu XiaoLi , Zhang RuHong
Published: September 2021

Background

Various laser therapies have been introduced in scar management. However, pain during treatment has limited the application of laser therapy in pediatrics.

Objectives

To evaluate whether the use of the low‐energy mode of a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser improves hypertrophic scars in a pediatric population.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, split‐scar trial was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of low‐energy CO2 laser use. Patients aged <12 years with hypertrophic scars were enrolled. Each hypertrophic scar was equally divided into three parts: the two ends of each scar were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups, and the center portion was considered a transition zone and was not included in the analysis. A total of three laser treatments were performed at 1‐month intervals. Scar scale scores 6 months after the final treatment was the primary outcome. Additionally, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate pain after each treatment.

Results

Of the 23 patients enrolled, 20 completed the study. The total Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) score at the 6‐month follow‐up was significantly lower for the treated site (44.95 for the treated group vs. 64.85 for the control group, p < 0.0001). Both the patient and observer POSAS scores showed an obvious difference between the treated and control groups (19.95 vs. 29.95 for patient scores, respectively, p < 0.0001, and 26.00 vs. 34.90 for observer scores, respectively, p < 0.0001). All observer and patient scores describing pain, pruritus, color, stiffness, and thickness were statistically different and favored the treated site. No significant difference was found in patient score of irregularity. The average VAS therapeutic pain score was 3.5 ± 1.43 out of 10.

Conclusions

Low‐energy CO2 fractional laser therapy improved hypertrophic scars in a pediatric population. Therefore, for children with hypertrophic scar, low‐energy CO2 laser with less procedure pain may be more appropriate.