bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood‐induced cartilage damage alters the ankle joint load during walking
Authors: Eerdekens Maarten , Peerlinck Kathelijne , Staes Filip , Pialat Jean‐Baptiste , Hermans Cedric , Lobet Sébastien , Scheys Lennart , Deschamps Kevin
Published: May 2020

Ankle cartilage damage due to repeated joint bleeds often leads to altered gait in adult patients with hemophilia. It is therefore of clinical importance to develop an understanding of the biomechanical gait features in hemophilia patients with and without blood‐induced cartilage damage and age‐matched control subjects. We recruited a control group (n = 17), patients with hemophilia (PwH) without blood‐induced ankle cartilage damage (PwH_NoCartDam, n = 5) and PwH with severe blood‐induced ankle cartilage damage (PwH_CartDam, n = 19). We collected three‐dimensional gait analysis data with following outcome variables in the ankle, Chopart and the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP 1) joints: range of motion (ROM) during stance phase, peak joint moment and powers. Biomechanical loading (BW) was quantified as the joint reaction forces using inverse dynamic analysis. Loading rate (BW/s) and impulse (BW*s) were calculated between 50% and 70% of stance phase. All biomechanical variables of the ankle joint were significantly lowered in the PwH_CartDam group compared with both the control subjects and the PwH_NoCartDam group. No compensatory biomechanical function was observed in other foot joints. An ankle loading rate of 2.64 ± 0.83 BW/s was observed in the control group, which was significantly higher than 1.75 ± 0.43 BW/s (P = .049) and 1.22 ± 0.59 BW/s (P < .001) in respectively the PwH_NoCartDam group and PwH_CartDam group. Patients with severe blood‐induced cartilage damage demonstrated a (mal)adaptive gait strategy as they experience difficulties to properly unload the ankle cartilage during walking.
Application of calcite, Mg‐calcite, and dolomite as Raman pressure sensors for high‐pressure, high‐temperature studies
Authors: Yuan Xueyin , Xiong Xin , Zhang Guoliang , Mayanovic Robert A.
Published: May 2020

The Raman spectra of calcite, Mg‐calcite, and dolomite were measured under ambient and high pressure–temperature (P‐T) conditions using a hydrothermal diamond anvil cell, for the purpose of developing new pressure sensors suited for experiments investigating the physicochemical properties of carbonate minerals. By fitting the Raman vibrational frequencies as functions of pressure and temperature, pressure (P, in MPa) can be determined from relative frequency shifts (in cm−1) of the symmetric stretching (ν1) and librational (νL) lattice vibrations of calcite: P = 229(1) × (ν1 calcite, HP − ν1 calcite, ref), P = 162(1) × (νL calcite, HP − νL calcite, ref), or from the translational (νT) and librational (νL) lattice vibrations of dolomite: P = 371(3) × [(νL dolomite, HP − νT dolomite, HP) − (νL dolomite, ref − νT dolomite, ref)], where νref is the value under ambient P‐T conditions. Under elevated temperatures, correction for the effect of temperature (T, in °C) on the Raman frequency shifts can be accomplished through ν1 calcite, HT = ν1 calcite, ref − 6.8(5) × 10−6 × T2–0.0051(3) × T + 0.12, νL calcite, HT = νL calcite, ref − 1.07(12) × 10−5 × T2–0.00341(7) × T + 0.76, νL dolomite, HT − νT dolomite, HT = (νL dolomite, ref − νT dolomite, ref) − 0.0198(3) × T + 0.45. Application of the calcite and dolomite Raman pressure sensors should be made on condition that no phase transitions or breakdown reactions occur under high P‐T conditions, with errors of ±50 MPa and ± 5% at pressures below and above 1.0 GPa, respectively. Results from an additional experiment showed that pressures determined using alternate Raman pressure calibration methods were self‐consistent and in excellent agreement with the results determined using the ν1 Raman peak shifts of aragonite.
Influence of Additives and Temperature on the Interaction of Acid Red 151 Dye with Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide: A Conductometric Study
Authors: Nur Asaduzzaman , Mahbub Shamim , Rahman Mohammad Majibur , Khan Farah , Rub Malik Abdul , Hoque Md. Anamul , Khan Mohammed Abdullah , Azum Naved , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: May 2020

The interaction of an anionic textile dye, acid red 151 (AR), with a cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), in aqueous electrolyte medium (e.g., KCl, NaCl) and in H2O + ethanol medium was observed using the conductometric method. Two critical micelle concentrations (CMC) were found for the AR + CTAB system in water and H2O + ethanol medium, but only one CMC was detected for AR + CTAB in salt+H2O media and for pure CTAB in all solutions. The change in CMC behavior of CTAB in the presence of AR indicates the occurrence of strong interaction between AR and CTAB. The extent of solubility increases with an increase of temperature, which disfavors micellization. The CMC values in NaCl solution are comparatively lower than those found in KCl solution, which signifies that the micelle formation is more favorable in attendance of NaCl. In aqueous ethanol solution, two CMC values were also observed for AR + CTAB that are higher than those obtained in water. The free energy of micellization () was negative, which illustrates a thermodynamically spontaneous micellization process. The values of enthalpy () and entropy () of micellization show that the process was entirely entropically driven at a lower temperature; but, enthalpic events are favored at elevated temperature in electrolyte medium, whereas both enthalpy and entropy are reduced in attendance of ethanol. In aqueous medium, the thermodynamic parameters signify the presence of electrostatic interaction between AR and CTAB at higher temperatures, while the hydrophobic interaction is the main driving force at a lower temperature. A linear expression of as a function of demonstrates enthalpy‐entropy compensation over the experimental conditions employed in this study.
Effect of heat treatment duration on the interaction between fish myosin and selected flavor compounds
Authors: Xu Yongxia , Wang Rui , Zhao Honglei , Yin Yiming , Li Xuepeng , Yi Shumin , Li Jianrong
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Interactions between flavor compounds and proteins during food processing are critical to flavor perception of the final product. Here, we investigated the effect of the duration of heat treatment on the interaction between bighead carp myosin and selected flavor compounds including hexanal, heptanal, octanal, nonanal, (E)‐2‐heptenal, and 1‐octen‐3‐ol.

RESULTS

The binding of flavor compounds to native myosin was strong and decreased in the order nonanal > octanal > (E)‐2‐heptenal > heptanal > hexanal >1‐octen‐3‐ol. The aldehydes, especially trans‐2‐undecenal, were more conducive to hydrophobic binding to myosin than alcohols. Within the initial 5 min of heating, the surface hydrophobicity and total sulfhydryl exposure increased, while α‐helix turned into β‐sheets, β‐turns, and random coils. However, upon further heating, the hydrophobicity and sulfhydryl contents declined, β‐sheets, β‐turns and random coils shifted to α‐helix. Throughout the heating process, the particle size increased, and the absolute zeta potential decreased continuously, indicating that thermal aggregation of myosin occurred simultaneously. Changes in binding capacities of flavor compounds to myosin were consistent with changes in hydrophobicity and sulfhydryl contents.

CONCLUSION

The initial enhancement of the flavor‐binding capacity of myosin was attributed to the unfolding of secondary structures by exposing more hydrophobic bonding sites and hydrogen bonding sites. The rebuilding and aggregating of myosin was enhanced upon prolonged heating, thus favoring hydrophobic protein–protein interactions and weakening the resultant flavor binding capacity of myosin.
Absorption and distribution of root, fruit, and foliar‐applied 45Ca in ‘Clemenules’ mandarin trees
Authors: Bonomelli Claudia , Fernández Victoria , Martiz Johanna , Videla Ximena , Arias María Ignacia , Rojas‐Silva Ximena , Nario Adriana
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The mechanisms of calcium (Ca) absorption and transport in plants are still poorly understood. This study focused on assessing the absorption and distribution of Ca in different plant organs after root (soil), foliar, or fruit application to 6‐year‐old ‘Clemenules’ mandarin trees, grown in pots, using 45Ca as a tracer.

RESULTS

The rate of 45Ca absorption and transportation in plant tissues varied according to the treatment method. The fruit and shoot Ca supply led to a rate of 97% to 98% 45Ca retention in such organs. In Ca‐treated fruits, 22% of the applied 45Ca moved to the pulp and 78% remained in the flavedo and albedo. The fruit peel was examined by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and variations were observed during fruit development. Following 45Ca soil treatment, approximately 56% of 45Ca activity was measured in the soil, with 19.5% determined in the roots, 14.6% in the trunks (90% in bark and sapwood and only 10% in heartwood), 9.6% in shoots, and 0.3% in fruits.

CONCLUSION

Calcium mobility in ‘Clemenules’ mandarin trees is limited and depends on the mode of Ca fertilizer application. The distribution of Ca to and within the fruits may be limited during development because of structural and functional constraints. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A rapid method for the quantification of urinary phthalate monoesters: A new strategy for the assessment of the exposure to phthalate ester by solid‐phase microextraction with gas chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Elliani Rosangela , Naccarato Attilio , Malacaria Luana , Tagarelli Antonio
Published: May 2020

In the following work, a new method for the analysis of the phthalate monoesters in human urine was reported. Phthalate monoesters are metabolites generated as a result of phthalate exposure. In compliance with the dictates of Green Analytical Chemistry, a rapid and simple protocol was developed and optimized for the quantification of phthalate monoesters (i.e., monoethyl phthalate, monoisobutyl phthalate, mono‐n‐butyl phthalate, mono‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate, mono‐n‐octyl phthalate, monocyclohexyl phthalate, mono‐isononyl phthalate) in human urine, which entails preceding derivatization with methyl chloroformate combined with the use of commercial solid phase microextraction and the analysis by gas chromatography‐triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. The affinity of the derivatized analytes toward five commercial coatings was evaluated, and in terms of analyte extraction, the best results were reached with the use of the divinylbenzene/carboxen/polydimethylsiloxane fiber. The multivariate approach of experimental design was used to seek for the best working conditions of the derivatization reaction and the solid phase microextraction, thus obtaining the optimum response values. The proposed method was validated according to the guidelines issued by the Food and Drug Administration achieving satisfactory values in terms of linearity, sensitivity, matrix effect, intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy, and precision.
Impact of Radiotherapy on Neck Dissection Nodal Count in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Yu Yue , Sultana Rehena , Rangabashyam Mahalakshmi S. , Mohan Niraj , Hwang Jacqueline S. G. , Soong Yoke‐Lim , Tan Ngian‐Chye , Iyer Gopalakrishna N. , Tan Hiang‐Khoon
Published: May 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Our study aimed to review the impact of preoperative radiotherapy (RT) and other factors on the lymph node count of neck dissection (ND) specimens from patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). A retrospective study was conducted on all patients with head and neck cancers who had undergone NDs in Singapore General Hospital between 1992 and 2013.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Patients were categorized into two groups: patients treated with RT with or without chemotherapy before ND and patients who had undergone ND surgery without previous history of RT. The primary endpoint for this study would be the lymph node count from ND.

Results

The study cohort consists of 1,024 NDs on 829 patients. There were 597 (58.3%) radical/modified radical NDs involving levels I–V. Within this group, 75 (12.6%) NDs had preoperative RT. Preoperative RT and age were found to significantly reduce nodal yield in both univariate and multivariate analysis in the radical/modified radical ND subgroup. In our multivariate analysis, preoperative RT was shown to decrease the nodal yield by 7.464 (P = .0002, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −11.35 to −3.58). Advanced age independently decreases nodal yield, even after accounting for the effect of RT (P = .0002, 95% CI: −0.27 to −0.08). In addition, preoperative RT has a more pronounced effect in reducing lymph node count in the older age group.

Conclusions

Preoperative RT and advanced age are independent and synergistic factors that reduce nodal count from NDs in patients with head and neck cancers.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130: 1947–1953, 2020
Role of Adjunct Treatments for Idiopathic CSF Leaks After Endoscopic Repair
Authors: Sanghvi Saurin , Sarna Brooke , Alam Elie , Pasol Joshua , Levine Corinna , Casiano Roy R.
Published: May 2020

Objective

A higher incidence of recurrent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks has been reported with idiopathic CSF leaks. A growing number of institutions advocate for routine use of intracranial pressure‐lowering adjunct treatments after endoscopic repair. We report our results in a patient cohort in which only symptomatic patients are subjected to further testing and treatment.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients who underwent endoscopic transnasal repair of idiopathic CSF rhinorrhea was performed at the University of Miami, Florida, from July 2010 to July 2017. The database was queried for demographical data, surgical details, radiological findings, and postoperative outcomes. Only patients with greater than a 12‐month follow‐up were included.

Results

Thirty‐three patients underwent endoscopic repair of an idiopathic CSF leak. Twenty‐six (79%) were females, with an average age of entire study population being 48 years. The average body mass index (BMI) of the cohort was 33 kg/m2, with 89% being overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2). The skull base defect was found to be mainly at the cribriform plate (64%) and sphenoid sinus (30%). Endoscopic repair was performed successfully as a single repair in 32 patients (97%). The average follow‐up was 47 months. Postoperative adjunct medications were used on four patients (12%) with symptomatic idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Conclusion

Endoscopic repair of idiopathic CSF leaks was found to have a high rate of success in our study. Postoperatively, only four patients required additional measures to medically reduce symptomatic intracranial hypertension. Routine postoperative adjunct treatments are unnecessary and may expose patients to adverse long‐term side effects.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:41–47, 2021
Ultranarrow Bandgap Naphthalenediimide‐Dialkylbifuran‐Based Copolymers with High‐Performance Organic Thin‐Film Transistors and All‐Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Shengbin , Chen Peng , Wang Hang , Koh Chang Woo , Uddin Mohammad Afsar , Liu Bin , Liao Qiaogan , Feng Kui , Woo Han Young , Xiao Guomin , Guo Xugang
Published: May 2020

A new polymer acceptor poly{(N,N′‐bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐1,4,5,8‐naphthalenedicarboximide‐2,6‐diyl)‐alt‐5,5‐(3,3′‐didodecyl‐2,2′‐bifuran)} (NDI‐BFR) made from naphthalenediimide (NDI) and furan‐derived head‐to‐head‐linked 3,3′‐dialkyl‐2,2′‐bifuran (BFR) units is reported in this study. Compared to the benchmark polymer poly(naphthalenediimide‐alt‐bithiophene) (N2200), NDI‐BFR exhibits a larger bathochromic shift of absorption maxima (842 nm) with a much higher absorption coefficient (7.2 × 104 m−1 cm−1), leading to an ultranarrow optical bandgap of 1.26 eV. Such properties ensure good harvesting of solar light from visible to the near‐infrared region in solar cells. Density functional theory calculation reveals that the polymer acceptor NDI‐BFR possesses a higher degree of backbone planarity versus the polymer N2200. The polymer NDI‐BFR exhibits a decent electron mobility of 0.45 cm2 V−1 s−1 in organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs), and NDI‐BFR‐based all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.39% with a very small energy loss of 0.45 eV by using the environmentally friendly solvent 1,2,4‐trimethylbenzene. These results demonstrate that incorporating head‐to‐head‐linked BFR units in the polymer backbone can lead to increased planarity of the polymer backbone, reduced optical bandgap, and improved light absorbing. The study offers useful guidelines for constructing n‐type polymers with narrow optical bandgaps.
Thermal analysis of friction stir processing (FSP) using arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian (ALE) and smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) meshing techniques
Authors: Meyghani B. , Awang M.B. , Wu C.S.
Published: May 2020

Friction stir processing (FSP), a derivation of friction stir welding (FSW) is a material processing method which is used to locally modify the microstructure and texture of a given material. In friction stir processing (FSP), the heat produced by the frictional force and material deformation plays a significant role in producing a good surface quality. Therefore, the thermal modeling of friction stir processing (FSP) requires accurate boundary conditions and an appropriate mesh modelling technique. In this study, the thermal behavior of friction stir processing (FSP) using the aluminum alloy 6061‐T6 for different process parameters is investigated. To solve complicated governing equations, two finite element formulations have been utilized; i. e. an arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian (ALE) and a smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). For the arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian (ALE), a three‐dimensional (3D) fully coupled thermomechanical finite element model using a modified Coulomb friction and Johnson‐Cook material law has been used. The results show that, the temperature behavior is asymmetrical in the cross section and the peak temperature is approximately around 60 %–80 % of the melting temperature of the AA6061‐T6. Moreover, it is seen that as the rotating velocity increases, the peak temperature is also increased; and the peak temperature decreases as the transverse speed increases. Finally, a good correlation between the calculated values and the literature is found.
Reverse reconstruction of surface topography from residual stress after chip‐forming machining of the material
Authors: Valíček J. , Harničárová M. , Kušnerová M. , Šajgalík M. , Kmec J. , Kopal I. , Panda A. , Palková Z.
Published: May 2020

Residual stress is induced in the sample of a material stressed by external forces (tension, pressure, thermal stress, etc.) from the beginning of the stress. An instantaneous level is a function of the intensity of the external deformation work, the time and speed of the deformation, and the degree of immediate surface and volume deformation. It is proportional to the individual deformation limits, i. e., the elastic limit, yield point, flexural strength and breach limit; the maximum is reached at the level of the breach limit. Furthermore, it is dependent on the physical‐mechanical properties of the material and on the method, i. e., the technology of straining, or machining. The same applies to the roughness distribution and other topographical features on the machined surface. The tension that has not been exhausted is partly returned to the volume of the sample and partly acts in contact with space, within a certain distance and time. This paper aims to present a reverse reconstruction of the surface topography from residual stresses after chip‐forming machining of the material. Our original approach to the solution fully exploits the rules of roughness distribution and other topographic features of the surfaces of the given materials after machining, not only by chip‐forming machining.
Evaluation of electrochemical properties of antibacterial ZnO layers deposited to 316LVM steel using atomic layer deposition
Authors: Basiaga M. , Walke W. , Antonowicz M. , Szindler M. , Nakonieczny D. , Kajzer W. , Dubiel A. , Matus K.
Published: May 2020

The presence of a biofilm can lead to the disappearance of the surrounding bone tissue and, as a result, disturb the osseointegration process. Unfortunately, both in the case of instability of the implant and long‐term bacterial infections, there is often a need for reoperation as well as replacement of the implant, which in turn is associated with huge costs, but most of all discomfort for the patient associated with long‐term hospitalization. In order to limit this unfavorable process, the physicochemical properties of the surface layer of implants are indicated. Therefore, the paper proposes applying a layer with antibacterial effect on the surface of 316LVM steel used in bone surgery. As part of the work, the ZnO layer was applied using the atomic layer deposition method with different parameters of the application process (different number of cycles at constant temperature). In the first stage, pitting corrosion resistance tests were carried out using the potentiodynamic method and studies using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The surface morphology tests using a scanning electron microscope were also complemented. Obtained results may form the basis for the development of more detailed criteria for the assessment of the final quality of medical devices used in the skeletal system.
Electrophysiological features: The next precise step for SCN2A developmental epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Miao Pu , Tang Siyang , Ye Jia , Wang Jianda , Lou Yuting , Zhang Bijun , Xu Xiaoxiao , Chen Xiaoquan , Li Yuezhou , Feng Jianhua
Published: May 2020

Background

To investigate the relationships among phenotypes, genotypes, and funotypes of SCN2A‐related developmental epileptic encephalopathy (DEE).

Methods

We enrolled five DEE patients with five de novo variants of the SCN2A. Functional analysis and pharmacological features of Nav1.2 channel protein expressed in HEK293T cells were characterized by whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording.

Results

The phenotypes of c.4712T>C(p. I1571T), c.2995G>A(p.E999K), and c.4015A>G(p. N1339D) variants showed similar characteristics, including early seizure onset with severe to profound intellectual disability. Electrophysiological recordings revealed a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of the activation curve and smaller recovery time constants of fast‐inactivation than in wild type, indicating a prominent gain of function (GOF). Moreover, pharmacological electrophysiology showed that phenytoin inhibited over a 70% peak current and was more effective than oxcarbazepine and carbamazepine. In contrast, c.4972C>T (p.P1658S) and c.5317G>A (p.A1773T) led to loss of function (LOF) changes, showing reduced current density and enhanced fast inactivation. Both showed seizure onset after 3 months of age with moderate development delay. Interestingly, we discovered that choreoathetosis was a specific phenotype feature.

Conclusion

These findings provided the insights into the phenotype–genotype–funotype relationships of SCN2A‐related DEE. The preliminary evaluation using the distinct hints of GOF and LOF helped plan the treatment, and the next precise step should be electrophysiological study.
Coexistence of urogenital malformations in a female fetus with de novo 15q24 microdeletion and a literature review
Authors: Liu Yaobin , Mapow Beth
Published: May 2020

Background

15q24 microdeletion is a relatively new syndrome caused by nonallelic homologous recombination (NAHR) between low‐copy repeats (LCRs) in the 15q24 chromosome region. This syndrome is characterized by a spectrum of clinical symptoms including global developmental delay, intellectual disability, facial dysmorphisms, and congenital malformations of the extremities, eye, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system, and genitalia.

Method

Molecular cytogenetic analysis was performed using whole genome single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarray analysis. Autopsy examination including gross and microscopic examination were performed. In addition, a thorough review of the literature on 15q24 microdeletion was completed and summarized in table format.

Result

Molecular cytogenetic analysis revealed a 3.88 MB interstitial deletion within 15q24.1 to 15q24.3 (74,353,735–78,228,485 bp) in our case. Autopsy examination showed congenital malformations within the genitourinary system and genitalia, including left kidney agenesis and uterus didelphys. After thorough literature review, we found a series of midline defects associated with 15q24 microdeletion syndrome.

Conclusion

We report the first case of coexistence of urogenital abnormalities, including left kidney agenesis and uterus didelphys, with 15q24 microdeletion syndrome, which is also associated with midline defects secondary to abnormal development. Since 15q24 microdeletion syndrome is a relatively new entity, fully characterizing its variation and severity requires additional examination of the genetics, molecular profile and structural and functional abnormalities in affected patients. Due to the limited data in the literature, statistical analysis of abnormalities in each organ system is not possible. However, we can predict that novel genetic pathways involving cell migration, adhesion, apoptosis, and embryo development might be discovered with the advanced study of 15q24 microdeletion syndrome.
A framework for data‐driven structural analysis in general elasticity based on nonlinear optimization: The dynamic case
Authors: Gebhardt Cristian Guillermo , Steinbach Marc Christian , Schillinger Dominik , Rolfes Raimund
Published: May 2020

In this article, we present an extension of the formulation recently developed by the authors to the structural dynamics setting. Inspired by a structure‐preserving family of variational integrators, our new formulation relies on a discrete balance equation that establishes the dynamic equilibrium. From this point of departure, we first derive an “exact” discrete‐continuous nonlinear optimization problem that works directly with data sets. We then develop this formulation further into an “approximate” nonlinear optimization problem that relies on a general constitutive model. This underlying model can be identified from a data set in an offline phase. To showcase the advantages of our framework, we specialize our methodology to the case of a geometrically exact beam formulation that makes use of all elements of our approach. We investigate three numerical examples of increasing difficulty that demonstrate the excellent computational behavior of the proposed framework and motivate future research in this direction.
Nintedanib and ischemic colitis: Signal assessment with the integrated use of two types of real‐world evidence, spontaneous reports of suspected adverse drug reactions, and observational data from large health‐care databases
Authors: Chandler Rebecca E.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Statistical screening of Vigibase, the global database of individual case safety reports, highlighted an association between the MedDRA Preferred Term (PT) “colitis” and nintedanib. Nintedanib is a protein kinase inhibitor authorized in accelerated regulatory procedures for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The aim of this report is to describe the integration of two types of real‐world evidence, spontaneous reports of adverse drug reactions (ADR), and observational health data (OHD) in the assessment of a post‐authorization safety signal of ischemic colitis.

Methods

Assessment of the statistical signal of “nintedanib – colitis” was undertaken using data from VigiBase, OHD from the Observational Heath Data Sciences and Informatics (OHDSI) collaborative, published literature, and openly available regulatory documents. Evidence synthesis was performed to support Bradford Hill criteria in causality assessment.

Results

Evidence for strength of association, specificity, consistency, and analogy was found upon review of the case series. OHD was used to calculate incidence rates of colitis in new users of nintedanib across multiple populations, supportive of consistency, and further evidence for strength of association. Literature review identified support for biological plausibility and analogy. Signal assessment was supplemented with characterization of real‐world users and exploration of potential risk factors using OHD.

Conclusions

An integrated approach using two forms of real‐world data, spontaneous reports of ADRs and data from observational databases allowed a comprehensive and efficient signal assessment of nintedanib and colitis. Further exploration of the complementary use of real‐time OHD in signal assessment could inform more efficient approaches to current signal management practices.
Ultraviolet Photodetector Based on Mg0.67Ni0.33O Thin Film on SrTiO3
Authors: Sarcan Fahrettin , Orchard Sam , Kuerbanjiang Balati , Skeparovski Aleksandar , Lazarov Vlado K. , Erol Ayse
Published: May 2020

Herein, a new heterostructured ultraviolet metal–semiconductor–metal photodetector based on Mg0.67Ni0.33O thin film and SrTiO3 is reported. The metal–semiconductor–metal photodetector comprises a 22 nm epilayer of Mg0.67Ni0.33O grown on SrTiO3 (111) substrate by molecular beam epitaxy. A comparison of responsivities of the Mg0.67Ni0.33O–SrTiO3 photodetector and reference SrTiO3 photodetector shows that the heterostructured detector has close to an order of magnitude enhanced responsivity in the deep‐ultraviolet region. The responsivity of the Mg0.67Ni0.33–SrTiO3‐based photodetector at 320 nm is 415 mA W−1, with dark current lower than 40 pA at a bias of 10 V. The rise and fall times of Mg0.67Ni0.33O–SrTiO3 photodetector are 10.7 and 8.6 ms, respectively, with the rise time more than two orders of magnitude shorter than the reference SrTiO3 photodetector.
An overview of biological applications and fundamentals of newinletandvacuumionization technologies
Authors: Trimpin Sarah , Marshall Darrell D. , Karki Santosh , Madarshahian Sara , Hoang Khoa , Meher Anil K. , Pophristic Milan , Richards Alicia L. , Lietz Christopher B. , Fischer Joshua L. , Elia Efstathios A. , Wang Beixi , Pagnotti Vincent S. , Lutomski Corinne A. , El‐Baba Tarick J. , Lu I‐Chung , Wager‐Miller James , Mackie Ken , McEwen Charles N. , Inutan Ellen D.
Published: May 2020

Rationale

The developments of new ionization technologies based on processes previously unknown to mass spectrometry (MS) have gained significant momentum. Herein we address the importance of understanding these unique ionization processes, demonstrate the new capabilities currently unmet by other methods, and outline their considerable analytical potential.

Methods

Theinletandvacuumionization methods of solvent‐assisted ionization (SAI), matrix‐assisted ionization (MAI), and laserspray ionization can be used with commercial and dedicated ion sources producing ions from atmospheric or vacuum conditions for analyses of a variety of materials including drugs, lipids, and proteins introduced from well plates, pipet tips and plate surfaces with and without a laser using solid or solvent matrices. Mass spectrometers from various vendors are employed.

Results

Results are presented highlighting strengths relative to ionization methods of electrospray ionization (ESI) and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization. We demonstrate the utility of multi‐ionization platforms encompassing MAI, SAI, and ESI and enabling detection of what otherwise is missed, especially when directly analyzing mixtures. Unmatched robustness is achieved with dedicated vacuum MAI sources with mechanical introduction of the sample to the sub‐atmospheric pressure (vacuumMAI). Simplicity and use of a wide array of matrices are attained using a conduit (inletionization), preferably heated, with sample introduction from atmospheric pressure. Tissue, whole blood, urine (including mouse, chicken, and human origin), bacteria strains and chemical on‐probe reactions are analyzed directly and, especially in the case ofvacuumionization, without concern of carryover or instrument contamination.

Conclusions

Examples are provided highlighting the exceptional analytical capabilities associated with the novel ionization processes in MS that reduce operational complexity while increasing speed and robustness, achieving mass spectra with low background for improved sensitivity, suggesting the potential of this simple ionization technology to drive MS into areas currently underserved, such as clinical and medical applications.
Mass Transport Determined Silica Nanowires Growth on Spherical Photonic Crystals with Nanostructure‐Enabled Functionalities
Authors: Wang Juan , Westerbeek Eiko Y. , van den Berg Albert , Segerink Loes I. , Shui Lingling , Eijkel Jan C. T.
Published: May 2020

A robust and facile method has been developed to obtain directional growth of silica nanowires (SiO2NWs) by regulating mass transport of silicon monoxide (SiO) vapor. SiO2NWs are grown by vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) process on a surface of gold‐covered spherical photonic crystals (SPCs) annealed at high temperature in an inert gas atmosphere in the vicinity of a SiO source. The SPCs are prepared from droplet confined colloidal self‐assembly. SiO2NW morphology is governed by diffusion‐reaction process of SiO vapor, whereby directional growth of SiO2NWs toward the low SiO concentration is obtained at locations with a high SiO concentration gradient, while random growth is observed at locations with a low SiO concentration gradient. Growth of NWs parallel to the supporting substrate surface is of great importance for various applications, and this is the first demonstration of surface‐parallel growth by controlling mass transport. This controllable NW morphology enables production of SPCs covered with a large number of NWs, showing multilevel micro‐nano feature and high specific surface area for potential applications in superwetting surfaces, oil/water separation, microreactors, and scaffolds. In addition, the controllable photonic stop band properties of this hybrid structure of SPCs enable the potential applications in photocatalysis, sensing, and light harvesting.
g‐C3N4/TiO2 Composite Film in the Fabrication of a Photocatalytic Air‐Purifying Pavements
Authors: Huang Yu , Zhang Jing , Wang Zhenyu , Liu Yan , Wang Pengge , Cao Jun-ji , Ho Wingkei
Published: May 2020

The fabrication of a photocatalytic air‐purifying pavement with a facile loading route, long depolluting period, and excellent deNOx activity under weak solar irradiation is essential for ambient air purification. Herein, a promising methodology is developed relying on the exploitation of a graphitic carbon nitride/TiO2 (g‐C3N4/TiO2) composite hydrosol at room temperature. The TiO2 hydrosol can act as a source of photocatalyst and dispersant for g‐C3N4 during loading. The photoinduced hydrophilicity, adhesive force, and regeneration tests in the laboratory show the long‐term deNOx application potential of g‐C3N4/TiO2 coatings. Field studies indicate that the NO removal rate is 70.7% of g‐C3N4/TiO2‐coated pavement in the morning (07:00–10:00) and afternoon (17:00–19:00), at which times solar radiation is weakest. The deNOx efficiency is influenced by solar irradiation and traffic volume. The latter exerts a more significant influence on deNOx efficiency than the former. A desirable route in fabricating a photocatalytic air‐purifying pavement is provided and offers a promising photocatalyst suitable for outdoor environmental remediation.
Advanced FE modeling supported by monitoring toward management of large civil infrastructures: The case study of Lezíria Bridge
Authors: Sousa Helder
Published: May 2020

The knowledge on the effective long‐term behavior of large civil infrastructures, for example, bridges, is becoming highly desired by owners and concessionaires. Based on the case of the Lezíria Bridge in Portugal, one of the most comprehensive case studies available in the literature, a set of good practices to achieve reliable assessments on the long‐term behavior is outlined. Spanning the construction phase, the loading test (at the end of construction) and the operation phase, the behavior of the bridge is well predicted for several physical parameters. Nevertheless, the extrapolation of creep and shrinkage models, the influence of interior and exterior environments, and significant thickness variations along cross‐sections are key issues that deserve special attention. The role of advanced FE modeling supported by monitoring data is showed to be one of the most robust approaches for supporting the management of large civil infrastructures in this era of digitalization (Industry 4.0).
Analytical approach for the design of flexural elements made of reinforced ultra‐high performance concrete
Authors: Yao Yiming , Mobasher Barzin , Wang Jingquan , Xu Qizhi
Published: May 2020

The increasing demands of sustainable design and construction with economical sections, reduced cover, and more efficient time schedule require more flexibility in the design methodologies. The development of ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC) have gained increasing interests as an attractive option for structural members with lightweight and superior performances. Concrete members reinforced with steel bars and fibers, generally known as hybrid reinforced concrete (HRC), offer a feasible solution in terms of reducing reinforcing materials and achieving desired structural performance. This paper proposes an analytical model to predict the flexural behavior of hybrid reinforced UHPC with steel reinforcements. Moment–curvature solutions are derived for reinforced sections based on parameterized tension‐compression constitutive models. The approach is applicable to customized cross section and derivation of T‐section is demonstrated. The moment–curvature response is further simplified as a tri‐linear model, which is used for the development of full‐range displacement solutions in analytical form. The proposed model is validated with the experimental data from literature covering a range of materials and member sizes. The full‐range solutions may provide insights into the serviceability design approach based on the criterion of maximum crack width or allowable deflection.
Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control with Model Parameter Correction for Power Conversion System in Battery Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Gao Ning , Chen Xiaotao , Wu Weimin , Li Xiangkun , Blaabjerg Frede
Published: May 2020

Adding a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in the vicinity of renewable energy sources is a feasible solution to overcome the inherent negative impact caused by their random power fluctuating problems. Power conversion system performs as an interface between the battery packs and grid. The control method of power conversion system is essential to BESS. Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control (FCS‐MPC) is favorable to be chosen as the core control method for grid‐injected current regulation in such a system due to its outstanding benefactions, including fast dynamics, multiobjective optimization and simple implementations. Hence, this paper presents a FCS‐MPC with active damping feature for an Inductor(L) Capacitor(C) Inductor(L) (LCL)‐filter‐based power conversion system first. However, it is also well known that the practical effect of model predictive control significantly relies on the accuracy of mathematical model embedded within the controller. Parametric mismatch of the model tends to generate a prediction error, leading to a deterioration of the power quality of power conversion system or even instability issues furthermore. Therefore, this paper proposes an additional model correction strategy based on a comprehensive on‐line analysis on the difference between predictive and real value of respective voltage or current signals during the ever‐lasting several grid cycles to eliminate the influence of parametric mismatch. Simulation of an LCL‐filter‐based power conversion system is carried out to verify the validity of the theoretical analysis and control method in this paper. Finally, experimental results obtained from a down‐scaled prototype are provided to confirm the feasibility of the overall control strategy. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Performance evaluation of first full‐scale primary filtration using a fine pore cloth media disk filter
Authors: Caliskaner Onder , Tchobanoglous George , Imani Lilly , Davis Brian
Published: May 2020

Over the past 20 years, various new filter technologies have been developed that can be used to (a) enhance the performance of or (b) replace conventional primary treatment facilities. To enhance the performance of a primary sedimentation facility, primary effluent is filtered to further reduce the constituent concentrations discharged to the secondary treatment facilities. This form of primary enhancement is known as primary effluent filtration (PEF). In the second case, where some type of filter technology is used to replace primary sedimentation, the process application is known as primary filtration (PF). The principal focus of this paper is on the performance of the first full‐scale PF project using a fine pore cloth media disk filter to maximize the diversion of carbon for the production of energy and to reduce energy usage. Performance data from related pilot‐scale cloth disk primary filter (CDPF) systems are included for process verification. The removal performance for total suspended solids (TSS) from the three CDPF installations varied from 83% to 85%, as compared to 55%–60% typically achieved with primary sedimentation. The total overall TSS removal performance achieved with PF is essentially the same as that achieved with PEF, without the need for a primary sedimentation tank. The removal performance for five‐day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) from the three CDPF installations varied from 46% to 58%, as compared to 32%–38% BOD removal typically achieved with primary sedimentation. The full‐scale CDPF results reported in this paper are from an on‐going research and demonstration project, conducted for the California Energy Commission (CEC), to demonstrate the potential energy savings that can be achieved through the implementation of PF.

Practitioner points

The performance of the first full‐scale primary filtration system using a fine pore cloth disc filter is evaluated in this project.

Design and operational criteria of the primary filtration technology were established in this project to implement in full scale installations.

Primary filtration was demonstrated to increase the diversion of carbon for the production of energy and to reduce energy usage.

Significant decrease in aeration power requirement and increase in digester gas production are possible with primary filtration.

Footprint reduction (both for primary and secondary treatment) are other important attributes of primary filtration.
Comparison of sensor driven aeration control strategies for improved understanding of simultaneous nitrification/denitrification
Authors: Klaus Stephanie , Bott Charles B.
Published: May 2020

A pilot scale process was operated with A‐stage effluent (ASE) and primary clarifier effluent (PCE) in MLE, all tanks aerated, A/O, and A2O configurations. Continuous DO control at high DO (2 mg/L), low DO (0.1–0.3 mg/L), ammonia‐based aeration control (ABAC), and ammonia versus NOx (AvN) control (both continuous and intermittent operation) were compared on the basis of total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) removal, and simultaneous nitrification‐denitrification (SND). The highly loaded adsorption/bio‐oxidation (A/B) process configuration (4 hr HRT) with intermittent aeration was capable of achieving a maximum TIN removal of 80%, while the A2O process with PCE feed, an 11 hr HRT, and 0.2–0.3 mg/L DO continuous aeration achieved a maximum of 88% TIN removal. ABAC and AvN control did not always result in DO setpoints low enough to achieve SND, and even if setpoints were low enough to achieve SND that did not always result in increased overall TIN removal over continuous DO control of 2 mg/L. While there are other benefits to transitioning to sensor driven aeration control strategies such as ABAC and AvN, increased TIN removal during continuous aeration is not guaranteed. Results suggest that although low DO is a prerequisite for SND, carbon availability for denitrification in the aerobic zone is more likely to be the limiting factor once low DO conditions are met.

Practitioner points

Intermittent aeration control results in higher TIN removal than continuous aeration at the same total SRT

Continuous aeration AvN control is not likely to result in more TIN removal than continuous aeration ABAC for a given COD and nitrogen load

Configurations that are designed to maximize predenitrification (e.g., MLE and A2O) are less likely to achieve increased SND in the aerobic zone from low DO operation than configurations that are not (e.g., A/O).
Sharp‐tailed Grouse in the Nebraska Sandhills Select Residual Cover Patches for Nest Sites
Authors: Vodehnal William L. , Schenbeck Gregory L. , Uresk Daniel W.
Published: May 2020

We evaluated selection and availability of residual cover (dead standing herbage) by sharp‐tailed grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus) at time of nest‐site selection in an intact and annually grazed grassland. We used radiotelemetry in 1988–1990 to locate 147 nests in the sandhills of Nebraska, USA, and classified 121 as initial nests and 26 as renests. We used visual obstruction readings (VOR) to measure the height and density of residual cover at nests and 373 landscape‐scale transects around leks (trap sites). We excluded 77 nests from vegetation analysis because green herbage or early livestock grazing compromised residual cover measurements. Most females selected nest sites with residual cover, mostly warm‐season grasses, taller and denser than surrounding vegetation. Visual obstruction readings at 70 nests ( = 7.1 cm, SE = 0.4, range = 1.0–19.0) averaged almost twice the VOR of residual cover within 12 m of nests ( = 4.0 cm, SE = 0.3, range = 0.9–11.8) and almost three times the landscape VOR ( = 2.5 cm, SE = 0.1, range = 0.5–7.9). As further evidence of the importance of residual cover, >52% (n > 37) of the females (initial nests) in 1988 and 1989 completed egg‐laying and were incubating before green herbage began contributing to nest cover. More than 88% (n > 42) of the females relied on residual cover through egg‐laying in 1990 when annual drought delayed foliar development. Interested ranchers and land managers can enhance residual cover through livestock grazing management to attract females and presumably increase nest density, a key component of annual sharp‐tailed grouse productivity. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
A suite of polymerase chain reaction‐based peptide tagging plasmids for epitope‐targeted enzymatic functionalization of yeast proteins
Authors: Nemec Antonia A. , Tomko Robert J.
Published: May 2020

The budding yeast and model eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been invaluable for purification and analysis of numerous evolutionarily conserved proteins and multisubunit complexes that cannot be readily reconstituted in Escherichia coli. For many studies, it is desirable to functionalize a particular protein or subunit of a complex with a ligand, fluorophore or other small molecule. Enzyme‐catalysed site‐specific modification of proteins bearing short peptide tags is a powerful strategy to overcome the limitations associated with traditional nonselective labelling chemistries. Towards this end, we developed a suite of template plasmids for C‐terminal tagging with short peptide sequences that can be site‐specifically functionalized with high efficiency and selectivity. We have also combined these sequences with the FLAG tag as a handle for purification or immunological detection of the modified protein. We demonstrate the utility of these plasmids by site‐specifically labelling the 28‐subunit core particle subcomplex of the 26S proteasome with the small molecule fluorophore Cy5. The full set of plasmids has been deposited in the non‐profit plasmid repository Addgene (http://www.addgene.org).