bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laminar Converging Flow of Dilute Polymer Solutions in Conical Sections. II
Authors: Sutterby John L.
Published: July 2002

The test fluids were three aqueous solutions of Natrosol 250 H hydroxyethyl cellulose. Their nominal concentrations were 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7%. Viscosity data for each solution wee filled with a generalized Newtonian viscosity model which properly describes the zero-shear viscosity. The test geometries were two conical sections. Their vertex angles were approximately 14 and 21°. Laminar flow rate vs. pressure drop data were taken for each Natrosol solution in each conical section. Approximate expressions relating flow rate and pressure drop were derived for the limiting cases of very low and very high flow rates. The low flow rate (non-Newtonian flow) expression was of form: pressure drop=function of (flow rate, geometry, viscosity model parameters). The high flow rate (inviscid flow) expression was of form: pressure drop=function of (flow rate, geometry, fluid density). These two expressions were in excellent agreement with data at low and high flow rates. The sum of these two expressions was in good agreement with data over the entire range of flow rates. This superposition expression in no way accounts for normal stresses, time-dependent elastic effects, or the effect of the third invariant on viscosity. Its success in describing the data implies that these phenomena were not important. For engineering purposes generalized Newtonian viscosity models will probably be adequate for characterizing the flow of dilute polymer solutions in conical sections.
Temperature-History Dependence in Combined Tension-Torsion Creep of Polyurethane Under Varying Temperature
Authors: Mark Roger , Nichols Findley William
Published: July 2002

A nonlinear creep experiment under combined stresses and time-varying temperature is reported. By using the constitutive equations for combined stressing at various temperatures and a time-temperature superposition principle, the creep of polyurethane under constant combined tension and torsion and varying temperature was computed. Results were best described by assuming no temperature-history dependence on increasing temperature and temperature-history dependence on decreasing temperature.
Structure-property relations in processing high-performance polyisoimide–imide resins
Authors: Chow A. W. , Hamlin R. D. , Landis A. L. , Lau K. S. Y.
Published: July 2002

The processing of high-performance polyimides via their processible isoimide modifications is of great interest to aeronautical and aerospace applications. Rheological characterization during the isoimide-to-imide conversion, essential for identifying the processing conditions of such reactive polymers and their polymer blends, is reported. Using dynamic shear measurements, we obtained rheological information for a series of polyisoimide–imide resins as a function of temperature and cure history. Both homopolymers and copolymers have been investigated. We found that the processibility (e.g., melt viscosity of isoimide) and ultimate product properties (e.g., Tg of polyimide) can be systematically varied by changing the chemical constituents and rigidity of the polymer backbone. Such correlations of chemical structures, rheological behavior, and processing characteristics provide the necessary database for tailor making new polymer systems with desirable processibility and mechanical properties. Practical considerations and difficulties in measuring the viscoelasticity of these materials are also addressed.
Domain formation in liquid crystals under oscillating shear flow
Authors: Semenov A. N.
Published: July 2002

Rheological properties of nontumbling nematics (α3/α2 ≳ 0, in which α2 and α3 denote Leslie viscosities) under oscillating shear flow are considered theoretically. It is shown that a domain structure should appear in the system provided that the amplitude A0 of the shear is high enough. The characteristic domain size is proportional to A0−1/4.
Role of structure in rigid PVC recoil
Authors: Zdilar A. M. , Tanner R. I.
Published: July 2002

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) rheology is greatly influenced by its low crystallinity content and its particulate morphology. The present paper will discuss the role of morphology in the flow behavior of rigid PVC in both constrained and unconstrained recoil. PVC has a partially fused structure and the fusion level can be monitored with surface electron micrographs of the fracture surface. When PVC is suddenly (step) elongated, the fusion level is greater than in the unstrained state and increases with time. The relaxation behavior is close to a power-law function with a Doi–Edwards type damping function. In constrained recoil (reversing double step elongations) the fusion level is still greater than in the unstrained state and Wagner’s irreversible model fits the data. In unconstrained recoil (step elongation followed by stress removal) it is shown that the fusion level almost returns to its initial state. In order to predict this unexpected change, we use a modified Wagner irreversible model with a structural parameter affecting the relaxation behavior.
Shear thickening as a consequence of an acoustic resonance in sheared colloidal crystals
Authors: Kaldasch Joachim , Laven Jozua , Stein Hans N.
Published: July 2002

A model is presented that predicts the critical shear rate of shear thickening of soft sphere colloidal suspensions. It is based on the idea that shear in a colloidal crystal leads to a periodic variation of the elastic modulus with time. At a specific shear rate an acoustic resonance occurs which leads to an increase of the viscosity. Good agreement with experimental results could be obtained by fitting the single parameter of the model.
In Situ Absorption Characterization Guided Slot‐Die‐Coated High‐Performance Large‐Area Flexible Organic Solar Cells and Modules
Authors: Shen Yi‐Fan , Zhang Hao , Zhang Jianqi , Tian Chenyang , Shi Yanan , Qiu Dingding , Zhang Ziqi , Lu Kun , Wei Zhixiang
Published: December 2022

Slot‐die coating is recognized as the most compatible method for the roll‐to‐roll (R2R) processing of large‐area flexible organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the photovoltaic performance of large‐area flexible OSC lags significantly behind that of traditional spin‐coating devices. In this work, two acceptors, Qx‐1 and Qx‐2, show quite different film‐formation kinetics in the slot‐die coating process. In situ absorption spectroscopy indicates that the excessive crystallinity of Qx‐2 provides early phase separation and early aggregation, resulting in oversized crystal domains. Consequently, the PM6:Qx‐1‐based 1 cm2 flexible device exhibits an excellent power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.70%, which is the best performance among the slot‐die‐coated flexible devices; in contrast, the PM6:Qx‐2 blend shows a pretty poor efficiency, which is lower than 1%. Moreover, the 30 cm2 modules based on PM6:Qx‐1, containing six 5 cm2 sub‐cells, exhibit a PCE of 12.20%. After being stored in a glove box for over 6000 h, the PCE remains at 103% of its initial values, indicating excellent shelf stability. Therefore, these results show a promising future strategy for the upscaling fabrication of flexible large‐area OSCs.
Massively Parallel CRISPR‐Based Genetic Perturbation Screening at Single‐Cell Resolution
Authors: Cheng Junyun , Lin Gaole , Wang Tianhao , Wang Yunzhu , Guo Wenbo , Liao Jie , Yang Penghui , Chen Jie , Shao Xin , Lu Xiaoyan , Zhu Ling , Wang Yi , Fan Xiaohui
Published: December 2022

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)‐based genetic screening has been demonstrated as a powerful approach for unbiased functional genomics research. Single‐cell CRISPR screening (scCRISPR) techniques, which result from the combination of single‐cell toolkits and CRISPR screening, allow dissecting regulatory networks in complex biological systems at unprecedented resolution. These methods allow cells to be perturbed en masse using a pooled CRISPR library, followed by high‐content phenotyping. This is technically accomplished by annotating cells with sgRNA‐specific barcodes or directly detectable sgRNAs. According to the integration of distinct single‐cell technologies, these methods principally fall into four categories: scCRISPR with RNA‐seq, scCRISPR with ATAC‐seq, scCRISPR with proteome probing, and imaging‐based scCRISPR. scCRISPR has deciphered genotype–phenotype relationships, genetic regulations, tumor biological issues, and neuropathological mechanisms. This review provides insight into the technical breakthrough of scCRISPR by systematically summarizing the advancements of various scCRISPR methodologies and analyzing their merits and limitations. In addition, an application‐oriented approach guide is offered to meet researchers’ individualized demands.
Energy Efficient Single Pulse Switching of [Co/Gd/Pt]N Nanodisks Using Surface Lattice Resonances
Authors: Vergès Maxime , Perumbilavil Sreekanth , Hohlfeld Julius , Freire‐Fernández Francisco , Le Guen Yann , Kuznetsov Nikolai , Montaigne François , Malinowski Gregory , Lacour Daniel , Hehn Michel , van Dijken Sebastiaan , Mangin Stéphane
Published: December 2022

The impact of plasmonic surface lattice resonances on the magneto‐optical properties and energy absorption efficiency has been studied in arrays of [Co/Gd/Pt]N multilayer nanodisks. Varying the light wavelength, the disk diameter, and the period of the array, it is demonstrated that surface lattice resonances allow all‐optical single pulse switching of [Co/Gd/Pt]N nanodisk arrays with an energy 400% smaller than the energy needed to switch a continuous [Co/Gd/Pt]N film. Moreover, the magneto‐optical Faraday effect is enhanced at the resonance condition by up to 5,000%. The influence of the disk diameter and array period on the amplitude, width and position of the surface lattice resonances is in qualitative agreement with theoretical calculations and opens the way to designing magnetic metasurfaces for all‐optical magnetization switching applications.
Directional Ion Transport Enabled by Self‐Luminous Framework for High‐Performance Quasi‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Ye Siyang , Tian Fei , Shi Kaiyuan , Lei Danni , Wang Chengxin
Published: December 2022

Composite gel polymer electrolyte (CGPE), derived from ceramic fillers has emerged as one of the most promising candidates to improve the safety and cycling stability of lithium metal batteries. However, the poor interface compatibility between the ceramic phase and polymer phase in CGPE severely deteriorates lithium‐ion pathways and cell performances. In this work, a fluorescent ceramic nanowire network that can palliate the energy barrier of photoinitiators and contribute to preferential nucleation and growth of polymer monomers is developed, thus inducing polymer segment orderly arrangement and tightly combination. A proof‐of‐concept study lies on fabrications of poly(ethylene oxide) closely coating on the ceramic nanowires, thus dividing the matrix into mesh units that contribute to directional lithium‐ion flux and dendrite‐free deposition on the metallic anode. The CGPE, based on the state‐of‐the‐art self‐luminous framework, facilitates high‐performance quasi‐solid‐state Li||LiFePO4 cell, registering a high capacity of 143.3 mAh g−1 after 120 cycles at a mass loading of 12 mg cm−2. X‐ray computed tomography provides an insight into the relationship between directional lithium‐ion diffusion and lithium deposition behavior over the electrochemical processes. The results open a door to improve the electrochemical performances of composite electrolytes in various applications.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of α‐Substituted Vinylphosphonates and Diarylvinylphosphine Oxides
Authors: Wei Hanlin , Chen Hao , Chen Jianzhong , Gridnev Ilya D. , Zhang Wanbin
Published: December 2022

Chiral α‐substituted ethylphosphonate and ethylphosphine oxide compounds are widely used in drugs, pesticides, and ligands. However, their catalytic asymmetric synthesis is still rare. Of the only asymmetric hydrogenation methods available at present, all cases use rare metal catalysts. Herein, we report an efficient earth‐abundant transition‐metal nickel catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation affording the corresponding chiral ethylphosphine products with up to 99 % yield, 96 % ee (enantiomeric excess) (99 % ee, after recrystallization) and 1000 S/C (substrate/catalyst); this is also the first study on the asymmetric hydrogenation of terminal olefins using a nickel catalyst under a hydrogen atmosphere. The catalytic mechanism was investigated via deuterium‐labelling experiments and calculations which indicate that the two added hydrogen atoms of the products come from hydrogen gas. Additionally, it is believed that the reaction involves a NiIIrather than Ni0cyclic process based on the weak attractive interactions between the Ni catalyst and terminal olefin substrate.
Orbital soft tissues, bones, and allometry: Implications for the size and position of crocodylian eyes
Authors: Cerio Donald Greene , Witmer Lawrence M.
Published: December 2022

Although the visual system of crocodylians has attracted interest regarding optical parameters and retinal anatomy, fundamental questions remain about the allometry of the eyeball and whether such scaling is the same across all crown groups of crocodylians. In addition, anatomy and identities of adnexal soft tissues that interact with the visual system are not well understood in many cases. We used contrast‐enhancing iodine stain and high‐resolution micro‐computed tomography to assess the anatomy of orbital soft tissues, including extraocular muscles and glands, in crocodylians. We also used regression analysis to estimate the allometric relationship between the bony orbit and eyeball across Alligator mississippiensis and Crocodylus niloticus for the first time. Results revealed tight, negatively allometric relationships between the bony orbit and eyeball. Notably, the eyes of C. niloticus were larger for a given orbit size than the eyes of A. mississippiensis, although the slope of the relationship was no different between these two crown crocodylian groups. Among the findings from our anatomical study, new details were uncovered about the homologies of muscles of the abducens complex. In particular, M. rectus lateralis of crocodylians is revealed to have a more complex form than previously appreciated, being adhered to the tendon of the nictitating membrane, which may be apomorphic for Crocodylia. Our calculation of the orbit‐eyeball allometric relationship and study of the adnexal soft tissues of the crocodylian visual system, in combination with previous work by other teams in other crown saurian clades, is a critical, formerly missing, piece in the Extant Phylogenetic Bracket for restoring the visual apparatus of extinct crocodyliforms and other archosauriform groups.
A full semantic toolbox is essential for autism research and practice to thrive
Authors: Singer Alison , Lutz Amy , Escher Jill , Halladay Alycia
Published: December 2022

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) present with a highly diverse set of challenges, disabilities, impairments and strengths. Recently, it has been suggested that researchers and practitioners avoid using certain words to describe the difficulties and impairments experienced by individuals with ASD to reduce stigma. The proposed limitations on terminology were developed by only a subset of the autism community, and the recommendations are already causing negative consequences that may be harmful to future scientific and clinical endeavors and, ultimately, to people with ASD. No one should have the power to censor language to exclude the observable realities of autism. Scientists and clinicians must be able to use any scientifically accurate terms necessary to describe the wide range of autistic people they study and support, without fear of censure or retribution.
Acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy (AHEI): Alarming cutaneous presentation of a benign and self‐limited disease
Authors: Tumminello Mario , Lo Scalzo Lucia , Gangemi Antonella , Matina Federico , Termini Donatella , Guardino Melania , Piraino Giuseppe , Giuffrè Bianca Lea , Corsello Giovanni
Published: December 2022

Acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy (AHEI) is a cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis. We report on an 11‐month‐old boy, presenting the classical feature of AHEI with alarming cutaneous presentation, but good clinical condition. Early recognition is crucial to avoid unnecessary medical investigations or therapies, as well as to identify potentially severe complications.
The impact of rotor configurations on hemodynamic features, hemocompatibility and dynamic balance of the centrifugal blood pump: A numerical study
Authors: Li Yuan , Xi Yifeng , Wang Hongyu , Sun Anqiang , Deng Xiaoyan , Chen Zengsheng , Fan Yubo
Published: December 2022

To investigate the effect of rotor design configuration on hemodynamic features, hemocompatibility and dynamic balance of blood pumps. Computational fluid dynamics was employed to investigate the effects of rotor type (closed impeller, semi‐open impeller), clearance height and back vanes on blood pump performance. In particular, the Eulerian hemolysis model based on a power‐law function and the Lagrangian thrombus model with integrated stress accumulation and residence time were applied to evaluate the hemocompatibility of the blood pump. This study shows that compared to the closed impeller, the semi‐open impeller can improve hemolysis at a slight sacrifice in head pressure, but increase the risk of thrombogenic potential and disrupt rotor dynamic balance. For the semi‐open impeller, the pressure head, hemolysis, and axial thrust of the blood pump decrease with increasing front clearance, and the risk of thrombosis increases first and then decreases with increasing front clearance. Variations in back clearance have little effect on pressure head, but larger on back clearance, worsens hemolysis, thrombogenic potential and rotor dynamic balance. The employment of back vanes has little effect on the pressure head. All back vanes configurations have an increased risk of hemolysis in the blood pump but are beneficial for the improvement of the rotor dynamic balance of the blood pump. Reasonable back vanes configuration (higher height, wider width, longer length and more number) decreases the flow separation, increases the velocity of blood in the back clearance, and reduces the risk of blood pooling and thrombosis. It was also found that hemolysis index (HI) was highly negatively correlated with pressure difference between the top and back clearances (r = −.87), and thrombogenic potential was positively correlated with pressure difference between the top and back clearances (r = .71). This study found that rotor type, clearance height, and back vanes significantly affect the hydraulic performance, hemocompatibility and rotor dynamic balance of centrifugal blood pumps through secondary flow. These parameters should be carefully selected when designing and optimizing centrifugal blood pumps for improving the blood pump clinical outcomes.
Genomewide Association Study Identifies Copy Number Variants Associated With Warfarin Dose Response and Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in African Americans
Authors: Zhang Honghong , Alarcon Cristina , Cavallari Larisa H. , Nutescu Edith , Carvill Gemma L. , Perera Minoli A. , Hernandez Wenndy
Published: December 2022

The anticoagulant warfarin is commonly used to control and prevent thrombotic disorders, such as venous thromboembolism (VTE), which disproportionately afflicts African Americans. Despite the importance of copy number variants (CNVs), few studies have focused on characterizing and understanding their role in drug response and disease risk among African Americans. In this study, we conduct the first genome‐wide analysis of CNVs to more comprehensively account for the contribution of genetic variation in warfarin dose requirement and VTE risk among African Americans. We used hidden Markov models to detect CNVs from high‐throughput single‐nucleotide polymorphism arrays for 340 African American participants in the International Warfarin Pharmacogenetics Consortium. We identified 11,570 CNVs resulting in 2,038 copy number variable regions (CNVRs) and found 3 CNVRs associated with warfarin dose requirement and 3 CNVRs associated with VTE risk in African Americans. CNVRs 1q31.2del and 6q14.1del were associated with increased warfarin dose requirement (β = 11.18 and 4.94, respectively; Pemp = < 0.002); CNVR 19p13.31del was associated with decreased warfarin dose requirement (β = −1.41, Pemp = 0.0004); CNVRs (2p22.1del and 5q35.1‐q35.2del) were found to be associated with increased risk of VTE (odds ratios (ORs) = 1.88 and 14.9, respectively; Pemp ≤0.02); and CNVR 10q26.12del was associated with a decreased risk of VTE (OR = 0.6; Pemp = 0.05). Modeling of the 10q26.12del in HepG2 cells revealed that this deletion results in decreased fibrinogen gene expression, decreased fibrinogen and WDR11 protein levels, and decreased secretion of fibrinogen into the extracellular matrix. We found robust evidence that CNVRs could contribute to warfarin dose requirement and risk of VTE in African Americans and for 10q26.3del describe a possible pathogenic mechanism.
Principles of Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Szabó Ágnes , Szöllősi János , Nagy Peter
Published: December 2022

This unit describes the basic principles of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). Beginning with a brief summary of the history of FRET applications, the theory of FRET is introduced in detail using figures to explain all the important parameters of the FRET process. After listing various approaches for measuring FRET efficiency, several pieces of advice are given on choosing the appropriate instrumentation. The unit concludes with a discussion of the limitations of FRET measurements followed by a few examples of the latest FRET applications, including new developments such as spectral flow cytometric FRET, single‐molecule FRET, and combinations of FRET with super‐resolution or lifetime imaging microscopy and with molecular dynamics simulations. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 20 December 2022. See the end of the full text for details.
Genetic variation and population structure of Oryza sativa accessions in the AfricaRice collection and development of the AfricaRice O. sativa Core Collection
Authors: Ndjiondjop Marie Noelle , Gouda Arnaud Comlan , Eizenga Georgia C. , Warburton Marilyn L. , Kpeki Sèdjro Bienvenu , Wambugu Peterson W. , Gnikoua Karlin , Tia Daniel Dro , Bachabi Fatimata
Published: December 2022

Genetic diversity studies provide an increased understanding of genebank collections and enhance their use for improving global food security. This study explores the genetic variation and population structure of 5738 rice (Oryza sativa L.) accessions representing 39.6% of the O. sativa collection conserved in the AfricaRice genebank of which 74.0% originated from African countries. These accessions were genotyped with 25,904 polymorphic DArTseq‐based single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Genetic distances between pairs of accessions indicate high variability, with 21.0% of pairs being moderately distant and 78.2% highly distant from each other. The genotyped accessions are traditionally grown in six different agro‐ecologies from 73 countries. Using neighbor‐joining tree, principal component, and model‐based population structure analyses, the accessions were divided into four genotypic groups representing the two O. sativa subspecies, Japonica (787 accessions) and Indica, which were further divided into landraces (1879 accessions), and improved cultivars (3027 accessions), and a fourth small group of admixed accessions. Subclusters identifying a specific agro‐ecology (upland, lowland, and mangrove swamp) or originating country were noted. Using the maximum length sub‐tree method, we selected 10% of the total accessions to form the “AfricaRice O. sativa Core Collection” (AROSCC). The subset of 600 O. sativa accessions captures more than 95% of the SNP polymorphisms in the entire collection. The AROSCC is an important resource to support pre‐breeding and rice improvement programs around the world.
A reinforcement learning approach based on convolutional network for dynamic service function chain embedding in IoT
Authors: Wang Shuyi , Yang Longxiang
Published: December 2022

Network communication technologies are developing rapidly in various scenarios, such as 6G, SDN/NFV, and IoT. And the demand for dynamic service function chain orchestration is increasing day by day. Due to the dynamic complexity of IoT networks, the service function chain (SFC) embedding problem in IoT scenarios is more difficult. In this paper, a reinforcement learning algorithm based on convolutional neural network is first applied to SFC embedding, combined with DQN's experience pool reply and target network mechanism. The proposed scheme is verified in three typical complex networks: Random network, BA scale‐free network, and small‐world network. The experimental data suggest that the applicability of the approach proposed in IoT scenarios and, on the whole, the proposed algorithm can achieve lower latency and faster convergence performance than the mainstream algorithms with the increase of SFC number and node number.
Biomolecular histology as a novel proxy for ancient DNA and protein sequence preservation
Authors: Anderson Landon A.
Published: December 2022

Researchers' ability to accurately screen fossil and subfossil specimens for preservation of DNA and protein sequences remains limited. Thermal exposure and geologic age are usable proxies for sequence preservation on a broad scale but are of nominal use for specimens of similar depositional environments. Cell and tissue biomolecular histology is thus proposed as a novel proxy for determining sequence preservation potential of ancient specimens with improved accuracy. Biomolecular histology as a proxy is hypothesized to elucidate why fossils/subfossils of some depositional environments preserve sequences while others do not and to facilitate selection of ancient specimens for use in molecular studies.
A novel colony‐stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) translocation involving human endogenous retroviral element in a tenosynovial giant cell tumor
Authors: Lipplaa Astrid , Meijer Debora , van de Sande Michiel A. J. , Gelderblom Hans , Bovée Judith V. M. G. , Mei Hailiang , Szuhai Karoly
Published: December 2022

Tenosynovial giant cell tumors (TSGCTs) are rare tumors arising in tendons or the synoviae of joints and bursae. The localized type is benign while the diffuse type shows expansive growth leading to greater morbidity and is therefore considered locally aggressive. Typical recurrent chromosomal aberrations are found in the majority of TSCGT and the CSF1 gene is frequently involved. In this article, we describe a newly identified gene fusion mediated by an inversion in a case of diffuse TSGCT. Multicolor‐fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) molecular karyotyping identified a pericentric inversion of chromosome 1 in 7 out of 17 analyzed cells 46,XX,inv(1)(p13.3q24.3) [7]/46,XX [10], and with interphase FISH the involvement the CSF1 locus was detected. After performing transcriptome sequencing analysis for fusion detection, only one out of five fusion gene algorithms detected a fusion involving the CSF1 gene product. The resulting chimera fuses a sequence from a human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) gene to CSF1 Exon 6 on chromosome 1, abrogating the regulatory element of the 3′ untranslated region of the CSF1 gene. This new translocation involving Exon 6 of the CSF1 gene fused to 1q24.1, supports the hypothesis that a mutated CSF1 protein is likely to play a vital role in the pathogenesis of TSGCT. The role of the HERV partner identified as a translocation partner, however, remains unclear. Our data add to the complexity of involved translocation partners in TSGCT and point to the potential difficulty of identifying fusion partners in tumor diagnostics using transcriptome sequencing when HERV or other repeat elements are involved.
Life cycle assessment of carbon capture and storage in saline aquifers for coal‐fired power generation: An Indian scenario
Authors: Gupta Abhishek , Paul Akshoy Ranjan , Haque Nawshad
Published: December 2022

Human activity is causing an increase in the atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) resulting in global climate change. The use of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in energy supply systems is one method of reducing GHG emissions. Three pulverized coal‐fired power stations near the Krishna–Godavari basin with and without CCS have been evaluated using the life cycle assessment and economical approach. Mono‐ethanolamine (MEA) postcombustion CO2 capture, compression, transportation with the pipeline, and storage in the Krishna–Godavari basin are all part of the CCS system. Up to 89% of power plants’ CO2 emissions can potentially be reduced. The retrofitting of a CO2 capture unit into a power plant adds the most to emissions and the cost of the CCS system. There is a 66% rise in the electricity cost when CCS is implemented in an existing power station, with a capital cost of about US$3.4billion. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
China's wandering elephants: Integrating exceptional movements into conservation planning
Authors: Campos‐Arceiz Ahimsa , de la Torre J. Antonio , Wei Ke , Wu Xiaoyu O. , Zhang Yang , Zhu Yufei , Yang Zicheng , Chen Shu , Bai Yang , Corlett Richard T. , Chen Fei
Published: December 2022

In May‐June 2021 a herd of wild Asian elephants made global headlines when they trekked hundreds of km into areas where elephants had been absent for centuries, mobilizing a response of unprecedented scale. Here, we analyze the movement attributes and body condition of these elephants to understand this unusual behavior and its implications for megafauna conservation in the Anthropocene. We propose that these movements are a form of partial and irruptive nomadic behavior, although the data is also compatible with a failed attempt of dispersal. In their path to Kunming, the elephants made unusual habitat choices, using landscapes with higher nightlight intensity, and moving close to towns and villages, while avoiding areas with high forest cover, which we interpret as habituation to feeding on crops and lack of fear of people. Fifteen months after starting their journey, the elephants showed high body condition scores and had successfully delivered two babies, both indicators of good health, suggesting that their decision to leave their previous home range had paid off. In China, we recommend an elephant conservation strategy founded on area‐based and area‐specific measures, including protected areas, landscape connectivity, and the mitigation of human‐elephant conflicts, as well as preparedness for expectable population range expansions, potentially on the scale of hundreds of km, in the coming decades. Our study highlights the ecological and behavioral plasticity of elephants and the importance of integrating movement ecology in conservation planning, especially for wide‐ranging species.
The work experiences and needs of lone community psychologists: Exploring diversity of settings and identities
Authors: Shaw Jessica , Bailey Caroline , Danylkiv Anastasiya , Kashyap Maya , Chávez Noé Rubén , Voight Adam
Published: December 2022

Community psychologists (CPs) are committed to value‐based praxis, an interdisciplinary orientation, and an ecological approach to community collaboration in pursuit of social justice and liberation. Because no setting is immune to the impacts of the intersecting systems of oppression in which we are embedded, CPs end up working in a wide array of settings, and often as the only CP in the setting. This dynamic—operating as a “lone” CP—may be rewarding as the CP is able to provide unique value at work, or may present specific challenges, particularly if the CP's sense of community or mattering is compromised. We interviewed n = 31 lone CP to explore their work experiences, including the benefits, challenges, and what they need to thrive in their current setting. Findings reveal a wide array of experiences among CPs, related to their community psychology, and other identities. Participants consistently discussed the important role of values in their decision‐making and experiences at work, and provide specific recommendations as to how the Society for Community Research and Action (SCRA) can ensure all CPs across all settings can thrive. This includes providing more tangible and relational support, changing SCRA's culture and priorities, and improving community psychology undergraduate and graduate training.
A pilot study of local anesthesia training using a mixed‐reality haptic fidelity model
Authors: Lamira Jensine M. , Wilson Charlotte S. , Leppek Noah C. , Orr Caley M. , De la Rosa Laurice M. , Greany Thomas J.
Published: December 2022

Purpose/Objectives

One of the most difficult local anesthetic blocks to master in dentistry is the inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). Historically, dental students have practiced local anesthesia on one another. At the University of Colorado, these practice sessions have been limited to one required laboratory session. The predictability and confidence of student IANB success have not been high in the past. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of a novel IANB simulator, built on a three dimensional (3D)‐printed mixed‐reality haptic model, for second‐year dental students to practice on prior to their laboratory session.

Methods

Thirty‐nine student participants volunteered to practice with the IANB simulator. Participants were divided into two groups, Group A and Group B. Self‐reported confidence and injection‐specific accuracy were measured during IANB simulator practice and the laboratory session. During lab, partner numbness was assessed as a measure of IANB success. Groups A (n = 20) and B (n = 19) practiced with the simulator before and after laboratory, respectively. Injection domains were not assessed during Group B's practice with the IANB simulator.

Results

Self‐reported confidence increased for both groups (p < 0.001). However, for anesthetic success, Group A exhibited significantly greater success (52.6%) than Group B (17.6%) (p = 0.029).

Conclusion

Self‐reported confidence in performing an IANB improved and higher anesthetic success was achieved for Group A. Further investigation is necessary to determine the long‐term impact of using the IANB simulator in dental education.
Bias propagation in network meta‐analysis models
Authors: Li Hua , Shih Ming‐Chieh , Song Cheng‐Jie , Tu Yu‐Kang
Published: December 2022

Network meta‐analysis combines direct and indirect evidence to compare multiple treatments. As direct evidence for one treatment contrast may be indirect evidence for other treatment contrasts, biases in the direct evidence for one treatment contrast may affect not only the estimate for this particular treatment contrast but also estimates of other treatment contrasts. Because network structure determines how direct and indirect evidence are combined and weighted, the impact of biased evidence will be determined by the network geometry. Thus, this study's aim was to investigate how the impact of biased evidence spreads across the whole network and how the propagation of bias is influenced by the network structure. In addition to the popular Lu & Ades model, we also investigate bias propagation in the baseline model and arm‐based model to compare the effects of bias in the different models. We undertook extensive simulations under different scenarios to explore how the impact of bias may be affected by the location of the bias, network geometry and the statistical model. Our results showed that the structure of a network has an important impact on how the bias spreads across the network, and this is especially true for the Lu & Ades model. The impact of bias is more likely to be diluted by other unbiased evidence in a well‐connected network. We also used a real network meta‐analysis to demonstrate how to use the new knowledge about bias propagation to explain questionable results from the original analysis.
An in vitro comparison of three nucleus pulposus removal techniques for partial intervertebral disc replacement: An ultra‐high resolution MRI study
Authors: Rahman Tamanna , Baxan Nicoleta , Murray Robert T. , Tavana Saman , Schaer Thomas P. , Smith Nigel , Bull Jonathan , Newell Nicolas
Published: December 2022

Background

Nuclectomy, also known as nucleotomy, is a percutaneous surgical procedure performed to remove nucleus material from the center of the disc. Multiple techniques have been considered to perform a nuclectomy, however, the advantages and disadvantages of each are not well understood.

Aims

This in vitro biomechanical investigation on human cadaveric specimens aimed to quantitatively compare three nuclectomy techniques performed using an automated shaver, rongeurs, and laser.

Material & Methods

Comparisons were made in terms of mass, volume and location of material removal, changes in disc height, and stiffness. Fifteen vertebra–disc–vertebra lumbar specimens were acquired from six donors (40 ± 13 years) and split into three groups. Before and after nucleotomy axial mechanical tests were performed and T2‐weighted 9.4T MRIs were acquired for each specimen.

Results

When using the automated shaver and rongeurs similar volumes of disc material were removed (2.51 ± 1.10% and 2.76 ± 1.39% of the total disc volume, respectively), while considerably less material was removed using the laser (0.12 ± 0.07%). Nuclectomy using the automated shaver and rongeurs significantly reduced the toe‐region stiffness (p = 0.036), while the reduction in the linear region stiffness was significant only for the rongeurs group (p = 0.011). Post‐nuclectomy, 60% of the rongeurs group specimens showed changes in the endplate profile while 40% from the laser group showed subchondral marrow changes.

Discussion

From the MRIs, homogeneous cavities were seen in the center of the disc when using the automated shaver. When using rongeurs, material was removed non‐homogeneously both from the nucleus and annulus regions. Laser ablation formed small and localized cavities suggesting that the technique is not suitable to remove large volumes of material unless it is developed and optimized for this application.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that both rongeurs and automated shavers can be used to remove large volumes of NP material but the reduced risk of collateral damage to surrounding tissues suggests that the automated shaver may be more suitable.
Introducing sedum affects root‐soil interface phytoremediation of heavy metals in lei bamboo forest and potential risks from edible bamboo shoots
Authors: Bian Fangyuan , Zhang Xiaoping , Zhong Zheke , Wen Xing , Xiu Chengming , Li Qiaoling , Huang Zhiyuan
Published: December 2022

Introducing hyperaccumulators in bamboo forests is an efficient method for heavy metals (HMs) pollution control. HMs can be transferred from soil to bamboo and accumulate in edible bamboo shoots. However, how phytoremediation or cropping systems affect root‐soil interface and transference of HMs from soil to bamboo shoots is unknown. In this study, lei bamboo and Sedum plumbizincicola were planted as a monoculture and intercropping system (bamboo/sedum) on contaminated land. Soil properties, rhizosphere bacterial communities, and HMs concentrations in plants and soils were compared among bamboo in monoculture (B), bamboo in intercropping (BI), sedum in intercropping (SI), and sedum in monoculture (S). In BI, the total nitrogen was 10.8% lower, while total organic carbon (TOC) was 12.3% higher than in B; HMs removal amount in BI was higher than in B, especially cadmium. Intercropping increased the HMs concentrations, bioconcentration factor, translocation factor, and hazard quotient of bamboo shoots. Significant differences in bacterial community structures were confirmed by principal coordinate analysis. Gemmatimonadetes, Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Kaistobacter were identified as biomarkers that increased significantly in intercropping, enhancing the diversity of ecological functions in the rhizosphere. Redundancy analysis revealed that rhizosphere bacterial communities were significantly correlated with soil properties, especially TOC and available phosphorus. Intercropping could remarkably alter soil chemical and microbiological properties and facilitate ecosystem restoration by enhancing soil TOC sequestration, activating rhizobacterial community at the root‐soil interface, and finally increasing HMs removal. As the consumption of bamboo shoots grown in contaminated soils may pose health risks, more attention is needed on this issue in phytoremediation studies.
High‐Performance Supramolecular Adhesives
Authors: Sun Peng , Qin Bo , Xu Jiang‐Fei , Zhang Xi
Published: December 2022

Supramolecular adhesives have gained broad attention from both scientific and industrial aspects by virtue of their dynamic and reversible bonding properties. Although considerable achievements have been made in the exploration of noncovalent interactions for supramolecular adhesives, developing high‐performance supramolecular adhesives has remained a great challenge. Recently, by combining well‐developed noncovalent interactions with rational design strategies, strong and functional supramolecular adhesives have been constructed. From this perspective, the latest developments of high‐performance supramolecular adhesives and their design notions will be discussed. At first, supramolecular adhesives with high bonding strengths are focused. By improving mechanical properties and enhancing interfacial interactions, the adhesion strength of supramolecular adhesive has been increased substantially. Secondly, supramolecular adhesives with various functionalities, such as underwater adhesion and conductivity, are introduced. By removing the hydration layer and incorporating conductive components, underwater and conductive supramolecular adhesives have been fabricated. At last, current challenges and future opportunities in this rapidly developing field will be discussed. It is highly anticipated that this perspective will provide guidance for the construction of supramolecular adhesives with desirable bonding strengths and tailor‐made functionalities.
Turning and Sitting in Early Parkinsonism: Differences Between Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Associated with Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Mostile Giovanni , Contrafatto Federico , Terranova Roberta , Terravecchia Claudio , Luca Antonina , Sinitò Martina , Donzuso Giulia , Cicero Calogero E. , Sciacca Giorgia , Nicoletti Alessandra , Zappia Mario
Published: December 2022

Background

Differential diagnosis between idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) associated with parkinsonism (iNPH‐P) and Parkinson's disease (PD) may prove difficult when evaluating patients with early parkinsonism. The objective of this study was to evaluate differences in mobility during standardized tasks between iNPH‐P and PD.

Methods

We selected 21 iNPH‐P and 21 pharmacologically untreated PD patients. They all performed the instrumented Timed Up and Go test at the time of diagnosis.

Results

Turning tasks showed longer duration and lower speed in iNPH‐P than in PD. Vertical variation in acceleration during the sit‐to‐stand phase was lower in iNPH‐P patients, whereas the duration of the stand‐to‐sit phase was longer. On walking, iNPH‐P showed smaller stride length and a longer gait cycle duration. In multivariate analysis adjusting for age and cognitive status as potential confounders, average angular speed on turning before sitting was the discriminating parameter between the two groups.

Conclusions

Patients with iNPH‐P showed specific abnormal mobility performances with respect to untreated PD, specifically during the turning‐to‐sitting transition.
Oral edaravone demonstrated a favorable safety profile in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis after 48 weeks of treatment
Authors: Genge Angela , Pattee Gary L. , Sobue Gen , Aoki Masashi , Yoshino Hiide , Couratier Philippe , Lunetta Christian , Petri Susanne , Selness Daniel , Bidani Sachin , Hirai Manabu , Sakata Takeshi , Salah Alejandro , Apple Stephen , Wamil Art , Kalin Alexander , Jackson Carlayne E.
Published: December 2022

Introduction/Aims

An intravenous (IV) formulation of edaravone has been shown to slow the rate of physical functional decline in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). An oral suspension formulation of edaravone was recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use in patients with ALS. This study assessed the safety and tolerability of oral edaravone.

Methods

This global, open‐label, phase 3 study evaluated the long‐term safety and tolerability of oral edaravone in adults with ALS who had a baseline forced vital capacity ≥70% of predicted and disease duration ≤3 y. The primary safety analysis was assessed at weeks 24 and 48. Patients received a 105‐mg dose of oral edaravone in treatment cycles replicating the dosing of IV edaravone.

Results

The study enrolled 185 patients (64.3% male; mean age, 59.9 y; mean disease duration, 1.56 y). The most common treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) at week 48 were fall (22.2%), muscular weakness (21.1%) and constipation (17.8%). Serious TEAEs were reported by 25.9% of patients; the most common were worsening ALS symptoms, dysphagia, dyspnea, and respiratory failure. Twelve TEAEs leading to death were reported. Forty‐six (24.9%) patients reported TEAEs that were considered related to study drug; the most common were fatigue, dizziness, headache, and constipation. Sixteen (8.6%) patients discontinued study drug due to TEAEs. No serious TEAEs were related to study drug.

Discussion

This study indicated that oral edaravone was well tolerated during 48 wk of treatment, with no new safety concerns identified.
Preliminary experience of cardiac proton spectroscopy at 0.75 T
Authors: Peereboom Sophie M. , Guenthner Christian , Albannay Mohammed M. , Kozerke Sebastian
Published: December 2022

Recent work on high‐performance lower‐field MR systems has renewed the interest in assessing relative advantages and disadvantages of magnetic fields less than 1 T. The objective of the present work was to investigate signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) scaling of point‐resolved spectroscopy as a function of field strength and to test the feasibility of proton MRS of triglycerides (TGs) in human in vivo myocardium at 0.75 T relative to 1.5 T and 3 T. Measurements at 0.75 T were obtained by temporarily ramping down a clinical 3 T MR scanner. System configurations at 0.75, 1.5 and 3 T featured identical hard‐ and software, except for differences in transmit/receive coil geometries and receive channel count, which were accounted for in SNR comparisons. Proton MRS was performed at 0.75 T, 1.5 T and 3 T in ex vivo tissue and in vivo calf muscle to measureT1andT2values as a function of field strength, which in turn served as input to simulations of SNR scaling and field‐dependent TG fit errors. Preliminary in vivo spectra of myocardium were acquired at 0.75 T, 1.5 T and 3 T in healthy subjects. Measurements of both ex vivo tissue and in vivo muscle tissue at 0.75 T versus 1.5 T and 3 T confirmed decreasingT1and increasingT2* for decreasing field strengths. Using measuredT1,T2andT2* as input and using field‐dependent echo time and bandwidth scaling, simulated Cramér‐Rao lower bounds of TG amplitudes at 0.75 T were 2.3 and 4.5 times larger with respect to 1.5 T and 3 T, respectively. In vivo measurements demonstrate that human proton spectroscopy of TGs in cardiac muscle is feasible at 0.75 T, supporting the potential practical value of lower‐field high‐performance MR systems.