bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
External Quantum Efficiency Exceeding 24% with CIEy Value of 0.08 using a Novel Carbene‐Based Iridium Complex in Deep‐Blue Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Park Ho‐Yeol , Maheshwaran Athithan , Moon Chang‐Ki , Lee Hyuna , Reddy Saripally Sudhaker , Sree Vijaya Gopalan , Yoon Jiyoung , Kim Jeong Won , Kwon Jang Hyuk , Kim Jang‐Joo , Jin Sung‐Ho
Published: June 2020

Deep‐blue triplet emitters remain far inferior to standard red and green triplet emitters in terms of exhibiting high‐color‐purity Commission International de l'Éclairage (CIE) y values of ≤0.1, external quantum efficiencies (EQEs), and high electroluminescent brightnesses in phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes. In fact, no deep‐blue triplet emitter with color purity and high device performance has previously been reported. In this study, a deep‐blue triplet emitter, mer‐tris(N‐phenyl, N‐benzyl‐pyridoimidazol‐2‐yl)iridium(III) (mer‐Ir1) is developed, which meets the requirements of the National Television System Committee (NTSC) CIE(x, y) coordinates of (0.149, 0.085) with an extremely high EQE of 24.8% and maximum brightness (Lmax) of 6453 cd m−2, by a device with a 40 vol% doping ratio. Moreover, another device demonstrates an EQEmax of 21.3%, an Lmax of 5247 cd m−2, and CIE(x, y) coordinates of (0.151, 0.086) at a 30 vol% doping ratio. This is the first report of a high‐performance, deep‐blue phosphor, carbene‐based Ir(III) complex device with outstanding CIE(x, y) color coordinates and a high EQE. The results of this study indicate that the novel dopant mer‐Ir1 is a promising candidate for reducing power consumption in display applications.
Induction of Immune Response against Metastatic Tumors via Vaccination of Mannan‐BAM, TLR Ligands, and Anti‐CD40 Antibody (MBTA)
Authors: Medina Rogelio , Wang Herui , Caisová Veronika , Cui Jing , Indig Iris H. , Uher Ondrej , Ye Juan , Nwankwo Anthony , Sanchez Victoria , Wu Tianxia , Nduom Edjah , Heiss John , Gilbert Mark R. , Terabe Masaki , Ho Winson , Zenka Jan , Pacak Karel , Zhuang Zhengping
Published: June 2020

Emerging evidence is demonstrating the extent of T‐cell infiltration within the tumor microenvironment has favorable prognostic and therapeutic implications. Hence, immunotherapeutic strategies that augment the T‐cell signature of tumors hold promising therapeutic potential. Recently, immunotherapy based on intratumoral injection of mannan‐BAM, toll‐like receptor ligands and anti‐CD40 antibody (MBTA) demonstrated promising potential to modulate the immune phenotype of injected tumors. The strategy promotes the phagocytosis of tumor cells to facilitate the recognition of tumor antigens and induce a tumor‐specific adaptive immune response. Using a syngeneic colon carcinoma model, MBTA's potential to augment CD8+ T‐cell tumor infiltrate when administered intratumorally or subcutaneously is demonstrated as part of a whole tumor cell vaccine. Both immunotherapeutic strategies prove effective at controlling tumor growth, prolong survival, and induce immunological memory against the parental cell line. Collectively, the investigation demonstrates MBTA's potential to trigger a potent anti‐tumor immune response.
Low‐Temperature Charge/Discharge of Rechargeable Battery Realized by Intercalation Pseudocapacitive Behavior
Authors: Dong Xiaoli , Yang Yang , Wang Bingliang , Cao Yongjie , Wang Nan , Li Panlong , Wang Yonggang , Xia Yongyao
Published: June 2020

Conventional intercalation compounds for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) suffer from rapid capacity fading and are even unable to charge–discharge with temperature decline, owing to the sluggish kinetics and solvation/desolvation process. In this work, a high‐performance rechargeable battery at ultralow temperature is developed by employing a nanosized Ni‐based Prussian blue (NiHCF) cathode. The battery delivers a high capacity retention of 89% (low temperature of −50 °C) and 82% (ultralow temperature of −70 °C) compared with that at +25 °C. Various characterizations and electrochemical investigations, including operando Fourier transform infrared spectra, in situ X‐ray diffraction, cyclic voltammetry response, and galvanostatic intermittent titration technique are carried out to detect the structural stability and electrochemical behavior at different temperatures. It turns out that the pseudocapacitive behavior drives the desolvation process at the interface, while fast diffusion in the bulk electrode accelerates the movement of Li+ from the interface to the bulk materials. The unique synergistic features of intercalation pseudocapacitance at the electrolyte/electrode interface and high diffusion coefficient in the bulk electrode enables the NiHCF cathode with excellent low temperature performance. These findings offer a new direction for the design of LIBs operated at low temperature.
Ferrofluid Microdroplet Splitting for Population‐Based Microfluidics and Interfacial Tensiometry
Authors: Latikka Mika , Backholm Matilda , Baidya Avijit , Ballesio Alberto , Serve Amandine , Beaune Grégory , Timonen Jaakko V. I. , Pradeep Thalappil , Ras Robin H. A.
Published: June 2020

Ferrofluids exhibit a unique combination of liquid properties and strong magnetic response, which leads to a rich variety of interesting functional properties. Here, the magnetic‐field‐induced splitting of ferrofluid droplets immersed in an immiscible liquid is presented, and related fascinating dynamics and applications are discussed. A magnetic field created by a permanent magnet induces instability on a mother droplet, which divides into two daughter droplets in less than 0.1 s. During the splitting process, the droplet undergoes a Plateau–Rayleigh‐like instability, which is investigated using high‐speed imaging. The dynamics of the resulting satellite droplet formation is shown to depend on the roughness of the supporting surface. Further increasing the field results in additional splitting events and self‐assembly of microdroplet populations, which can be magnetically actuated. The effects of magnetization and interfacial tension are systematically investigated by varying magnetic nanoparticles and surfactant concentrations, and a variety of outcomes from labyrinthine patterns to discrete droplets are observed. As the splitting process depends on interfacial tension, the droplet splitting can be used as a measure for interfacial tension as low as 0.1 mN m−1. Finally, a population‐based digital microfluidics concept based on the self‐assembled microdroplets is presented.
Multiple‐Frequency High‐Output Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on a Water Balloon for All‐Weather Water Wave Energy Harvesting
Authors: Xia Kequan , Fu Jiangming , Xu Zhiwei
Published: June 2020

Energy and the environment are two of the main issues facing the world today. As a consequence abundant renewable green energy sources such as wave energy, have become hot topics. Here, a multiple‐frequency triboelectric nanogenerator based on the water balloon (WB‐TENG) is proposed for harvesting water wave energy in any direction. Owing to the high elasticity of the water balloon, the WB‐TENG can realize a multiple‐frequency response to low‐frequency external mechanical simulations to generate high‐frequency electrical output. In addition, the water balloon can achieve self‐support without any additional supporting structure because of its tension, to make WB‐TENG still produce electrical output under slight vibration, which can also bring high energy conversion efficiency. Moreover, the fabricated WB‐TENG generates a maximum instantaneous short‐circuit current and an open‐circuit voltage of 147 µA and 1221 V, respectively. Most noteworthy, under the same conditions, the total transferred charge of WB‐TENG is 28 times than that of traditional TENG based on double plate structure during one working cycle. Therefore, this design can provide an effective way to promote the development of TENGs in blue energy.
A novel risk‐scoring system for predicting lymph node metastasis of rectal neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Chida Keigo , Watanabe Jun , Hirasawa Kingo , Inayama Yoshiaki , Misumi Toshihiro , Kunisaki Chikara , Endo Itaru
Published: June 2020

Aim

Although rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are considered to be rare low‐grade malignancies when lymph node metastasis (LNM) is present, their degree of malignancy is comparable to that of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, it remains unclear as to which patients require radical lymph node dissection. The aim of this study was to elucidate the risk factors for LNM and develop a risk‐scoring system for LNM to help determine appropriate therapeutic approaches.

Methods

In this study, we examined 103 patients with rectal NETs who underwent local resection (n = 55) or radical resection with LN dissection (n = 48). We evaluated each pathological feature, including the depth of submucosal invasion (SM depth) and tumor budding grade.

Results

According to our univariate analyses and previous reports, the significant five risk factors for LNM were weighted with point values: 2 points for tumor size ≥ 15 mm and muscularis invasion, and 1 point each for SM depth ≥ 2000 µm, positive lymphovascular invasion, budding grade 3, and vertical margin. The area under the receiver operating curve for the scoring system was 0.899 (95% CI: 0.843‐0.955). When a score of 2 was used as the cut‐off value, the sensitivity and specificity for the prediction of LNM were 100% and 72.1%, respectively.

Conclusions

The risk‐scoring system for LNM of rectal NETs showed high diagnostic performance. Using this risk‐scoring system, it is possible to predict the risk of LNM and thereby potentially avoid unnecessary surgery. Further prospective external validation studies should be performed. The study was registered in the Japanese Clinical Trials Registry as UMIN000036658.
Near‐Zero‐Sidelobe Optical Subwavelength Asymmetric Focusing Lens with Dual‐Layer Metasurfaces
Authors: Xie Jianlan , Liang Shengnan , Liu Jianjun , Tang Pinghua , Wen Shuangchun
Published: June 2020

Existing metasurfaces with ultrathin volume for asymmetric transmission are often constructed from metal with low efficiency in optical frequencies, and cannot realize optical asymmetric transmission and focusing simultaneously. Although acoustic asymmetric focusing in asymmetric focusing lenses (AFL) has been realized, the obtained focal point is accompanied by a large sidelobe. To solve these problems, an AFL with dual‐layer metasurfaces designed by using impedance matching materials can realize optical asymmetric transmission and focusing simultaneously in this paper. Furthermore, through optimizing the design theory of AFL, near‐zero‐sidelobe (NZS) focusing can be realized on the subwavelength scale. NZS asymmetric focusing of the optimized AFL is effective in broadband, which is expected to show tremendous potential in optical micro‐nanoprocessing, quantum communication, optical micromanipulation, etc.
Trehalose against Alzheimer's Disease: Insights into a Potential Therapy
Authors: Khalifeh Masoomeh , Read Morgayn I. , Barreto George E. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2020

Trehalose is a natural disaccharide with a remarkable ability to stabilize biomolecules. In recent years, trehalose has received growing attention as a neuroprotective molecule and has been tested in experimental models for different neurodegenerative diseases. Although the underlying neuroprotective mechanism of trehalose's action is unclear, one of the most important hypotheses is autophagy induction. The chaperone‐like activity of trehalose and the ability to modulate inflammatory responses has also been reported. There is compelling evidence that the dysfunction of autophagy and aggregation of misfolded proteins contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, given the linking between trehalose and autophagy induction, it appears to be a promising therapy for AD. Herein, the published studies concerning the use of trehalose as a potential therapy for AD are summarized, providing a rationale for applying trehalose to reduce Alzheimer's pathology.
Use of acetylacetone for nano‐level assay of fluvoxamine maleate in pure form and pharmaceutical formulation
Authors: Abu‐hassan Ahmed A. , Omar Mahmoud A. , Derayea Sayed M.
Published: June 2020

The present study developed and validated a selective spectrofluorimetric method designed to assay fluvoxamine maleate (FLX). The validated method relied on the condensation reaction between FLX and acetylacetone/formaldehyde using acetate buffer (pH 4.2). The formed fluorescent product was measured at an emission wavelength of 479 nm after excitation at 419 nm. Parameters that influenced the reaction were studied and adjusted accurately. The constructed calibration graph was rectilinear over the range 200–2000 ng ml−1 and the estimated limit of detection was 60 ng ml−1. Two products from an Egyptian market were assayed using the suggested method and the final results agreed with the measurements of the reported method. The selectivity of the proposed approach was evaluated using the standard addition method and results were acceptable and confirmed the reliability of this approach. Finally, directives from the International Council for Harmonisation guidelines were applied to establish the validity of the study.
Radiotherapy followed by DICEP regimen in treatment of newly diagnosed, stage IE/IIE, extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma patients
Authors: Liu Yizhen , Xue Kai , Xia Zuguang , Jin Jia , Wang Jiachen , Sun Hui , Lv Fangfang , Liu Xiaojian , Cao Junning , Hong Xiaonan , Guo Ye , Ma Xuejun , Zhang Qunling
Published: June 2020

Background

The optimal treatment strategies for extranodal natural killer/ T‐cell lymphoma (ENKTL) have not been defined. We conducted this prospective, open‐label, phase II, single‐center study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy followed by DICEP (Dexamethasone, ifosfamide, cisplatin, etoposide, and pegaspargase) regimen in the treatment of patients with untreated, stage IE/IIE, extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma.

Methods

Thirty eligible patients were enrolled in this study, receiving radiotherapy of 50Gy/25fx, and followed by chemotherapy with DICEP regimen for 3 cycles if tolerated. Median follow‐up time of this study was 70.8 months. We constructed Kaplan‐Meier survival curves for survival analyses.

Results

The most common manifestations at the onset of disease were nasal obstruction (80%), with or without fever, and pharyngalgia (20%). The overall response rate (ORR) was 96.7% (29/30). Four patients (13.3%) had progression of the disease (PD), the estimated 5‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) rate was 86%. Four patients (13.3%) died of disease, and the estimated 5‐year cumulative overall survival (OS) was 87%. The most common hematological toxicity was grade 3 or grade 4 neutropenia, which could be successfully managed via using growth‐stimulating factors or dose modifications. Hypoalbuminemia and decreased fibrinogen are the top two nonhematologic toxicities. No treatment‐related death occurred in this study.

Conclusions

Our present study showed that radiotherapy followed by DICEP chemotherapy could be an effective and tolerable treatment modality for newly diagnosed, stage IE/IIE ENKTL patients. Adverse events were predictable and manageable.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01667302.

Registered: 1 July 2012;
Modified gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel regimen in advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rogers Jane E. , Mizrahi Jonathan D. , Xiao Lianchun , Mohindroo Chirayu , Shroff Rachna T. , Wolff Robert , Varadhachary Gauri R. , Javle Milind M. , Overman Michael , Fogelman David R. , Raghav Kanwal P. S. , Pant Shubham , McAllister Florencia
Published: June 2020

Background

Gemcitabine (GEM) plus nab‐paclitaxel (NabP) (GEM 1000 mg/m2 IV over 30 minutes + NabP 125 mg/m2 IV given days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days) is one of the two standard of care combination therapies for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Our cancer center has utilized GEM‐NabP given every two‐weeks due to tolerability and patient convenience. Here, we review the safety and efficacy of this modified regimen.

Methods

Metastatic PDAC patients (pts) who initiated front‐line or second‐line GEM‐NabP during 2013‐2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Primary objective was overall survival. Secondary objectives were disease control rate, progression‐free survival, and the incidence of dose delays and/or adjustments.

Results

From a total of 235 patients, 140 pts received GEM‐NabP front‐line while 95 pts received GEM‐NabP second‐line. Median dosing was 600 mg/m2 at fixed‐dose rate for GEM and 125 mg/m2 for NabP given predominantly (~90%) every two‐weeks. Eastern Cooperative Group performance status of 0 and 1 pts had front‐line OS of 12.7 and 9.6 months and when given second‐line had OS of 8 months and 7.3 months, respectively. ECOG 0 and 1 pts had front‐line progression‐free survival (PFS) of 5.3 months and 2.8 months and second‐line PFS was 3.5 months and 2.4 months, respectively. Treatment was well tolerated with limited dose modifications.

Conclusion

Our analysis revealed safety with every two‐week low dose GEM‐NabP while maintaining efficacy. Patient schedule convenience should factor into metastatic incurable malignancies. We suggest the use of every two‐week GEM‐NabP particularly in patients desiring a modified schedule.
Prognostic implications of baseline 6‐min walk test performance in intermediate risk patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Sathananthan Janarthanan , Green Philip , Finn Matthew , Wood David A. , Lauck Sandra , Crowley Aaron , Alu Maria , Arnold Suzanne V. , Cohen David , Kapadia Samir , Mack Michael , Thourani Vinod H. , Kodali Susheel , Leon Martin , Webb John G.
Published: June 2020

Background

While slow gait speed is known to be associated with poor outcomes in patients at high surgical risk who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), the prognostic significance of slow gait speed in intermediate risk TAVR patients is poorly understood.

Objectives

We assessed the association between baseline 6‐min walk test (6MWT) performance and both 2‐year mortality and health status in intermediate risk patients undergoing TAVR as a part of the PARTNER II/S3i studies.

Methods

The association of baseline 6MWT with mortality over 2‐years after TAVR was examined using Cox regression; both unadjusted and adjusted for age, left ventricular ejection fraction, coronary artery disease, pulmonary disease, renal insufficiency, and STS score. Patients were divided into four groups according to baseline 6MWT: unable to walk and in three equal tertiles of slow, medium, and fast walkers. Among surviving patients, improvement in 6MWT and quality of life were compared.

Results

Among 2,037 intermediate risk TAVR patients (mean age 81.7 years, STS score 5.6%), 8.2% were unable to walk. Baseline 6MWT was associated with all‐cause mortality over 2 years (Hazard ratio (HR) 0.87 per 50 m, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83 to 0.92, p < .0001). Among surviving patients, the adjusted absolute change in 6MWT at 2 years improved for patients unable to walk (+134.1 m, 95% CI 102.1 to 166 m, p < .0001) and slow walkers (+60.5 m, 95% CI 42.8 to 78.2 m, p < .0001), but was unchanged for medium walkers (−7.3 m, 95% CI −24.3 to 9.6 m, p = .4), and declined for fast walkers (−41.3 m, 95% CI −58.7 to −23.9 m, p < .0001).

Conclusion

Poor functional capacity is predictive of 2‐year mortality in elderly intermediate risk patients undergoing TAVR. However, surviving patients with poor baseline functional capacity had significant improvement in 6MWT performance and quality of life at 2‐years following TAVR.
Avoidance of bile duct injury during laparoscopic liver cyst fenestration using indocyanine green: A case report
Authors: Hanaki Takehiko , Yagyu Takuki , Uchinaka Ei , Morimoto Masaki , Watanabe Joji , Tokuyasu Naruo , Takano Shuichi , Sakamoto Teruhisa , Honjo Soichiro , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2020

By administering ICG test immediately before laparoscopic liver cyst fenestration, the biliary tract can be easily identified and intraoperative bile duct damage and postoperative bile fistula formation can be avoided, as demonstrated in this case.
Active Learning A Neural Network Model For Gold Clusters & Bulk From Sparse First Principles Training Data
Authors: Loeffler Troy D. , Manna Sukriti , Patra Tarak K. , Chan Henry , Narayanan Badri , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian
Published: June 2020

Small metal clusters are of fundamental scientific interest and of tremendous significance in catalysis. These nanoscale clusters display diverse geometries and structural motifs depending on the cluster size; a knowledge of this size‐dependent structural motifs and their dynamical evolution has been of longstanding interest. Given the high computational cost of first‐principles calculations, molecular modeling and atomistic simulations such as molecular dynamics (MD) has proven to be an important complementary tool to aid this understanding. Classical MD typically employ predefined functional forms which limits their ability to capture such complex size‐dependent structural and dynamical transformation. Neural Network (NN) based potentials represent flexible alternatives and in principle, well‐trained NN potentials can provide high level of flexibility, transferability and accuracy on‐par with the reference model used for training. A major challenge, however, is that NN models are interpolative and requires large quantities (
or greater) of training data to ensure that the model adequately samples the energy landscape both near and far‐from‐equilibrium. A highly desirable goal is minimize the number of training data, especially if the underlying reference model is first‐principles based and hence expensive. Here, we introduce an active learning (AL) scheme that trains a NN model on‐the‐fly with minimal amount of first‐principles based training data. Our AL workflow is initiated with a sparse training dataset (
1 to 5 data points) and is updated on‐the‐fly via a Nested Ensemble Monte Carlo scheme that iteratively queries the energy landscape in regions of failure and updates the training pool to improve the network performance. Using a representative system of gold clusters, we demonstrate that our AL workflow can train a NN with
500 total reference calculations. Using an extensive DFT test set of ∼1100 configurations, we show that our AL‐NN is able to accurately predict both the DFT energies and the forces for clusters of a myriad of different sizes. Our NN predictions are within 30 meV/atom and 40 meV/Å of the reference DFT calculations. Moreover, our AL‐NN model also adequately captures the various size‐dependent structural and dynamical properties of gold clusters in excellent agreement with DFT calculations and available experiments. We finally show that our AL‐NN model also captures bulk properties reasonably well, even though they were not included in the training data.
Benefit of double‐reading cytology smears as a triage strategy among high‐risk human papillomavirus–positive women in Mexico
Authors: Ramírez‐Palacios Paula , Chen Aiyu , Flores Yvonne N. , Crespi Catherine M. , Lazcano‐Ponce Eduardo , Alvarez‐Escobedo Daniel , Torres‐Ibarra Leticia , Rivera‐Paredez Berenice , León‐Maldonado Leith , Hernández‐López Rubí , Mendiola‐Pastrana Indira R. , Méndez‐Hernández Pablo , Cuzick Jack , Carmona Enrique , Figueroa Héctor , Montiel‐Cordero Fernando , Meneses‐León Joacim , Rao Jianyu , Salmerón Jorge ,   the FRIDA Study Investigators
Published: June 2020

Background

The goal of this study was to determine whether the detection of histologically confirmed cases of cervical high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or worse (HSIL+) can be increased by having each liquid‐based cytology (LBC) slide read by 2 cytotechnologists as part of routine screening.

Methods

Over 36,212 women aged 30 to 64 years participated in the Forwarding Research for Improved Detection and Access for Cervical Cancer Screening and Triage (FRIDA) Study in Mexico between 2013 and 2016. For each participant, 2 cervical samples were collected at the same clinic visit, one to test for high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) and the other for LBC, which was used to triage those with a hrHPV positive result. LBC slides were evaluated by 7 cytotechnologists, with each slide read independently by 2 blinded cytotechnologists. All women with atypical cells of undetermined significance or a worse result were referred to colposcopy for further evaluation and diagnosis. Three pathologists evaluated the biopsy specimens to confirm the final HSIL+ diagnosis. The HSIL+ detection rates for the single versus double reading were estimated and compared.

Results

A total of 3,914 women with a positive hrHPV result were triaged with LBC. The first and second cytology readings resulted in 43 HSIL+ cases detected; the double‐reading strategy detected 9 additional HSIL+ cases, resulting in a total of 52 HSIL+ cases. The HSIL+ detection rate increased from 10.99/1000 with a single reading to 13.29/1000 with the double‐reading strategy (P = .004).

Conclusion

A 20.9% increase in HSIL+ cases detected was achieved with a double reading of the LBC slides in this sample of hrHPV‐positive women.
Welding flame detection based on color recognition and progressive probabilistic Hough transform
Authors: Chen Weiming , Chen Siqi , Guo Hailin , Ni Xiaoyang
Published: June 2020

Welders are widely used in machinery manufacturing and machining industry. In the process of electric welding, accidents are often caused by some unsafe behaviors. This paper focuses on the intelligent recognition method of welding flame, which can reduce the accidents of welding flame to a certain extent. Due to the difficulties in observing workers on job sites, developing an algorithm for intelligent identification of unsafe factors is significant. Firstly, Hue,Saturation and Value (HSV) color space with strong robustness is selected to segment the mark image with threshold value, and the region of interest in which the welding fame is located is segment; secondly, the Progressive Probabilistic Hough transform is used to detect the region of interest, judge the number of existing lines, and finally determine whether there is welding flame in this region. In this way, the welding flame can be better detected, which can reduce the workload of managers and is beneficial to the supervision of the management personnel.
Purification of Live Stem‐Cell‐Derived Islet Lineage Intermediates
Authors: Rasouli Niloofar , Melton Douglas A. , Alvarez‐Dominguez Juan R.
Published: June 2020

Stem‐cell‐derived tissues offer platforms to study organ development, model physiology during health and disease, and test novel therapies. We describe methods to isolate cells at successive stages during in vitro differentiation of human stem cells into the pancreatic endocrine lineage. Using flow cytometry, we purify live lineage intermediates in numbers not available by fetal biopsy. These include pancreatic and endocrine progenitors, isolated based on known surface markers. We further report a strategy that leverages intracellular zinc content and DPP4/CD26 expression to separate monohormonal insulin+ β cells from polyhormonal counterparts. These methods enable comprehensive molecular profiling during human islet lineage progression. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: In vitro isolation of human islet developmental intermediates
Eco‐control for corporate sustainable management: A sustainability development stage perspective
Authors: Gunarathne A. D. Nuwan , Lee Ki‐Hoon
Published: June 2020

Eco‐control offers an integrated management approach to transitioning toward corporate sustainable development, such as sustainable agriculture management. Despite the need to consider organizational and managerial changes and development in the field of sustainable agriculture, the use of integrated management controls has not yet been explored. This study identifies how the eco‐control procedures in sustainable agriculture management change when a commercial tea company transits to different stages of corporate sustainable development. It has developed an analytical framework, combining the sustainability management development perspective with the processual view of integrated eco‐control. Using a longitudinal case study approach, the data have been collected via in‐depth interviews, site visits, and document analyses, in respect of a commercial tea company in Sri Lanka. The findings show how the processual eco‐controls have changed as a result of internal and external challenges faced in the different sustainability management development stages of the transition to sustainable agriculture management. The findings emphasize the need for gaining a better understanding of the actions and decisions at the field (operational) and organizational level in promoting sustainable agriculture management practices in agribusiness firms.
Using citizen science data to inform the relative sensitivity of waterbirds to natural versus human‐dominated landscapes in China
Authors: Duan Houlang , Xia Shaoxia , Yu Xiubo , Liu Yu , Teng Jiakun , Dou Yuehan
Published: June 2020

Habitat loss is widely regarded as one of the most destructive factors threatening native biodiversity. Because migratory waterbirds include some of the most globally endangered species, information on their sensitivity to landscape would benefit their conservation. While citizen science data on waterbird species occurrence are subjected to various biases, their appropriate interpretation can provide information of benefit to species conservation. We apply a bootstrapping procedure to citizen science data to reduce sampling biases and report the relative sensitivity of waterbird species to natural versus human‐dominated landscapes. Analyses are performed on 30,491 data records for 69 waterbird species referred to five functional groups observed in China between 2000 and 2018. Of these taxa, 30 species (43.5%) are significantly associated with natural landscapes, more so for cranes, geese, and ducks than for shorebirds and herons. The relationship between land association and the threat status of waterbirds is significant when the range size of species is considered as the mediator, and the higher the land association, the higher the threat status. Sensitive species significantly associated with natural landscapes are eight times more likely to be classified as National Protected Species (NPS) Classes I or II than less sensitive species significantly associated with human‐dominated landscapes. We demonstrate the potential for citizen science data to assist in conservation planning in the context of landscape changes. Our methods might assist others to obtain information to help relieve species decline and extinction.
Simple Wet Rendering Method for Extraction of Prime Quality Oil from Skipjack Tuna Eyeballs
Authors: Pudtikajorn Khamtorn , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: June 2020

Oil from skipjack tuna (ST) eyeballs is extracted by the wet rendering method at 121 °C for different holding times (5–60 min) using an autoclave. Yield increases as heating time increases up to 20 min (p < 0.05); no further increase is obtained with a longer heating time (p > 0.05). Conversely, acid value and total polar compounds increase. However, peroxide value (PV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and anisidine value (AnV) decrease up to 30 min. No changes in unsaponifiable matter (UM) or conjugated diene (CD) are attained, regardless of heating time. Polar components (PC) increase with heating time (p < 0.05). All oil samples have a high polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content (40.46–41.00%), with monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and saturated fatty acids (SFA) in the range of 20.94–21.26% and 37.77–38.45%, respectively. PUFA content is reduced slightly with a heating time of 60 min. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (C22:6, n3) is the dominant fatty acid in all samples (31.67–32.24%). Based on FTIR spectra, heating for longer time results in lower intensity at wavenumbers of 3015 and 1740 cm−1. Thus, light yellow oil from ST eyeballs prepared by a green process for an appropriate time can serve as an excellent source of DHA and other PUFA.

Practical Applications: Tuna oil is known to be a rich source of DHA and PUFA with health benefits. However, precooked tuna heads, generally used as raw material, yield oils with a very dark color and offensive odor, which require several refinery processes. To reduce the number of steps in the refinery process, tuna eyeballs which are separated from tuna heads can render higher quality fish oil. Moreover, the wet rendering process, a green process without toxic substances, can be used without causing environmental problems.
Surfactin production in the bioreactor: Emphasis on magnetic nanoparticles application
Authors: Modabber Glayol , Sepahi Abbas Akhavan , Yazdian Fatemeh , Rashedi Hamid
Published: June 2020

Surfactin is one of the main lipopeptide biosurfactants produced by different species of Bacillus subtilis. This study aims to analyze the effect of starch‐coated Fe0 and Fe3+ nanoparticles on the biomass and biosurfactant production of Bacillus subtilis. Out of 70 soil samples, 20 Bacillus were isolated and genome sequenced by biochemical methods and 16S rRNA gene. Quantitative and qualitative screening methods were used to isolate and detect biosurfactant production. For the aim of this study, 61 and 63 (Bacillus subtilis subsp. Inaquosorum) were selected. Then, hemolytic activity, biomass amount, surfactant production, and reduction of surface tension in Minimal Salt Medium containing Fe0 and Fe3+ nanoparticles were examined after 48, 72, and 96 h of culture. Strain 61 was the best bacterium and Fe3+ was the best nanoparticle. The results were compared with the results of non‐nanoparticle bioreactor. The results showed the amount of biomass, surfactin, and surface tension decrease, 72 h after growth in 61 strain containing Fe3+ reached the highest values. Surfactin from strain 61 culture in the Fe3+nanoparticle bioreactor after 72 h of growth showed higher production than the same strain culture after 72 h without Fe3+, if continuing the research, this strain can be commercialized in the future.
Storage‐to‐wheels efficiency in a latest plug‐in electric vehicle
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: June 2020

The chemical, electrical, and mechanical power flow of a Chevrolet Spark plug‐in electric vehicle covering the cycles of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Vehicle Testing Regulations, namely the UDDS, Hwy and US06 cycles, is here analyzed. Experimental time series of instantaneous battery voltage and current are coupled to a simple model for energy conversion mechanical‐to‐electrical, and electrical‐to‐mechanical, and vice‐versa, and aerodynamic and rolling losses from Newton's equation model. A detailed CAE model is used to confirm the chassis dynamometer results complemented by the use of Newton's model. Computational time series of chemical, electric and mechanical power and energy are provided. Small advances are undergoing in motor/generator technology, where electric‐to‐mechanical efficiencies may approach 95%, while efficiencies mechanical‐to‐electric may exceed 90%. UDDS, Hwy and US06 efficiencies electric‐to‐wheels and wheels‐to‐electric are ηe−m = 0.794, 0.963, and 0.977, or ηm−e = 0.761, 0.893, and 0.902, respectively. Chemical‐to‐electric or electric‐to‐chemical efficiency ηc−e/e−c is about 0.984. These efficiencies are shared by the different products available on the market, with the weight of the vehicle and aerodynamic and rolling drags ultimately determining the energy efficiency of a specific vehicle.
The enhancement of security measures in advanced encryption standard using double precision floating point multiplication model
Authors: Srikanth B. , Kumar M. Siva , Ravindra J.V.R. , Kishore K. Hari
Published: June 2020

The multiplication strategy is a trending technology in chip programming model; also, it is used in different applications for different purpose. This research aims to develop the floating point double precision Furer Toom cook fast integer multiplication model in the Advanced Encryption Standard process round to enhance the security. In addition, the cryptography algorithms have been broken due to some harmful attack. So the main focus of this present research is to enhance the security measures in communication channel. Moreover, the proposed model is implemented in Xilinx and simulated in cadence 90 nm technology. By comparing the proposed work with recent existing models, the proposed research has reduced the power consumption as 5331.73 nW, thus 89% of power is reduced by the proposed Furer Toom cook multiplication model. The reduction of power enhanced the performance of multiplication algorithm so, while it is utilized in any application, it could not cause any loss of process. In addition, the developed strategy is process within 563 MHz frequency and utilized 11 250 cells. Thus, the proposed model provides better security for all wireless appliances.
Verhalten von Sulfatgestein im Tunnelbau – Erfahrungen aus Feldbeobachtungen und In‐situ‐Quelldrücke
Authors: Steiner Walter
Published: June 2020

Tunnels and underground works in sulphate bearing rocks are very challenging. For more than a century experience has accumulated in Switzerland and southern Germany with difficult conditions during construction and operation, which show the difficult conditions with extreme, long lasting heave of the invert and extreme swelling pressures. The analyses of published experience over more than a century and recent personal experience led to the compilation of many pieces of a puzzle and to a better understanding of complex processes. The swelling processes in sulphate bearing rocks are triggered by the formation of flow path for water, the dissolution, concentration and precipitation of minerals. In particular Anhydrite is dissolved and the solution becomes saturated, until precipitation and crystallization of Gypsum starts. The applied construction methods play an important influence on the rock mechanics and geochemical processes and finally the magnitude of in‐situ swelling pressures. The in‐situ swelling pressure are still large, but substantially less than the swelling pressures from laboratory tests. Estimated swelling pressures will be indicated.
From dust till dawn – Baubetriebliche Erfahrungen aus 14 Kilometer „Trockener Vortrieb”
Authors: Irmler Ralf , Türtscher Matthias , Hagenhofer Hannes , Schweiger Horst
Published: June 2020

As part of the reorganization of the Stuttgart railway node, many tunnels had to be driven through the rock formation of gypsum Keuper (Grabfeld Formation), which contains anhydrite. In contact with water, the mineral anhydrite converts into the mineral gypsum with a resulting increase of volume. To prevent damage to the tunnel structure and the buildings above the tunnel as a result of this swelling process, the tunnelling work had to be carried out dry. No water was allowed for cleaning, drilling or for dust reduction. Dry tunnelling for hundreds of metres in this form and intensity is a novelty. There were no empirical values. In this article the special features of a dry tunnelling are presented. A target‐actual comparison or geotechnical deformations should be deliberately avoided, although some peculiarities only result from changes to the contractual framework.
Lateral bearing behaviour of vibro‐ and impact‐driven large‐diameter piles in dense sand
Authors: Achmus Martin , Schmoor Kirill Alexander , Herwig Volker , Matlock Benjamin
Published: June 2020

Monopiles are the preferred foundation solution for offshore wind turbines in sandy soils below shallow and moderate water depths. The piles are commonly installed using impact driving. A severe disadvantage of this installation method is that high noise levels occur in the water, which are a risk to animals living in the sea. Approval authorities are known to impose statutory requirements to mitigate this risk, placing a financial burden on installation. Vibratory driving is an alternative installation method that reduces noise emission levels significantly. However, the effect of vibro‐driving on the bearing behaviour of piles under lateral loading is largely unknown. Full‐scale load tests were conducted in predominantly dense, non‐cohesive, saturated soil to investigate the differences between impact‐driven piles and vibrated piles regarding their lateral bedding behaviour. CPTs and pile head load‐displacement curves were recorded and evaluated. In general, it was determined that the bearing behaviour of vibro‐driven piles is heavily dependent on the parameters of the installation process. For the installation parameters used in the test campaign, two vibro‐driven piles showed a weaker bedding reaction in comparison to the impact‐driven piles, although one vibrated pile installed with unintentionally different parameters showed an only slightly weaker behaviour under primary loading and even increased unloading and reloading stiffness. Furthermore, it was observed that an indication regarding the differences in the bedding resistance can be obtained via CPT measurements before and after installation, since the installation procedure considerably affects the relative density of the soil around the pile.
The characteristics of active deformation and strain distribution in the eastern Tian Shan
Authors: Li Hanxue , Rao Gang , Qiu Jianhua , He Chuanqi , Gao Lin
Published: June 2020

The Tian Shan is one of the largest and most active intracontinental mountain belts, and its active deformation has attracted much scientific attention. In this study, we investigated the characteristics of active deformation in the most complex, eastern Tian Shan through the analysis of focal mechanism solutions since 1976, velocity vectors of 25 years geodetic measurements, and existing studies on active tectonics. The results demonstrate that: (a) ~3.5 mm/year of convergence is accommodated by the southern Junggar fold‐and‐thrust belt, forming a series of active thrusts and folds. The Bolokelu‐Aqikekuduke Fault is a transpressional structure, accommodating ~1 mm/year shortening and ~1.5 mm/year of right‐lateral shear strain; (b) Most of the convergence in the Huola Shan region is absorbed by the North Luntai Fault, and the right‐lateral shear strain is probably accommodated by the Kaidu River Fault and the Songshudaban Fault; (c) Active deformation in the eastern Tian Shan under oblique convergence is mainly partitioned into widespread compressional deformation (folding and thrusting) and dextral displacements on the NW‐trending faults. Nevertheless, left‐lateral strike‐slip motions have also been observed, suggesting that further constraints on the kinematics and deformation rates of structures especially the intermontane structures are still needed with the aim of achieving a better understanding of strain distribution in the study area.
Rivaroxaban as an Alternative Agent for Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Farasatinasab Maryam , Zarei Behnaz , Moghtadaei Mehdi , Nasiripour Somayyeh , Ansarinejad Nafiseh , Zarei Masoumeh
Published: June 2020

Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a high‐risk adverse drug reaction because of its associated risk of life‐ and limb‐threatening thrombosis. Rivaroxaban may be considered as an ideal nonheparin anticoagulant alternative for the management of HIT. In this preliminary retrospective study, the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban to control the clinically suspected HIT (4Ts score 4 points or greater) were evaluated. Patients with chronic kidney disease, hepatic impairment, mechanical heart valves, and active bleeding were excluded. Forty‐two eligible patients who received rivaroxaban for clinically suspected HIT were evaluated by medical records review, with 12‐month follow‐up after the first dose of rivaroxaban. End points included confirmed thrombosis (primary end point), mortality, and adverse treatment‐related events. HIT‐associated thrombosis was found in 17/42 (40.5%) patients before receiving rivaroxaban. After rivaroxaban therapy, platelet counts normalized in all patients, with only 1/42 (2.3%) patients developing new thrombosis. No hemorrhagic event was recorded in the patients. Twelve patients (28.6%) died, but the cause of death was not related to the thrombosis, hemorrhage, or adverse effects of rivaroxaban. Our findings are consistent with the available emerging data, suggesting that rivaroxaban is a safe and effective drug for the management of clinically suspected HIT. Rivaroxaban is a particularly valuable treatment option in developing countries, where there are issues of cost and availability of approved alternative agents.
Revisiting absent nasal bone in the second trimester
Authors: Singh Chanchal , Thakur Seema , Arora Nidhi , Khurana Deeksha
Published: June 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the outcomes of fetuses diagnosed with absent nasal bone in the second trimester.

Methods

This prospective, observational study included all fetuses who were diagnosed at or referred to our fetal medicine center with an absent nasal bone from 16 weeks onwards from November 2017 to December 2019. Amniocentesis for fetal karyotype and microarray was offered to all women. Women who opted not to undergo invasive testing were also followed up and neonatal outcome noted.

Results

26 fetuses were eligible for inclusion in the study. 8 (30.8%) out of these were diagnosed with aneuploidy: 7 with trisomy 21 and one with trisomy 18. All fetuses with aneuploidy had additional ultrasound abnormality and/or high risk on biochemical screening.

Conclusions

Isolated absent nasal bone in the second trimester with prior low risk on combined screening performed by certified sonographers is unlikely to be associated with Down syndrome.
Beyond bone biology: Lessons from team science
Authors: Zaidi Mone , Lizneva Daria , Gera Sakshi , Taneja Charit , Korkmaz Funda , Gumerova Anisa , Ievleva Kseniia , Ahmad Naseer , Ryu Vitaly , Sun Li , Kim Se‐Min , New Maria I. , Haider Shozeb , Iqbal Jameel , Rosen Clifford , Yuen Tony
Published: June 2020

Today, research in biomedicine often requires the knowledge and technologies in diverse fields. Therefore, there is an increasing need for collaborative team science that crosses traditional disciplines. Here, we discuss our own lessons from both interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary teams, which ultimately ushered us to expand our research realm beyond bone biology.