bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Benchmark of Planar Solid Oxide Cells Based on Material Development and Designs
Authors: Udomsilp David , Lenser Christian , Guillon Olivier , Menzler Norbert H.
Published: January 2021

Solid oxide cell (SOC) technology currently attracts great attention due to its unique potential for substantially contributing to a carbon‐neutral power supply. The variety in possible designs and applications—covering oxygen ion and proton conductors and the ability to convert surplus electricity to easily storable synthetic fuels, as well as to produce electricity from these fuels according to demand and availability—provides the excellent position of SOCs with regard to decentralized power generation and distribution. Herein, a reference work on cell performance is provided by highlighting specific advantages of the different cell types, designs, and materials with regard to certain operating conditions, including challenges concerning operational modes, processing, and degradation. In conjunction with a critical examination in terms of relevance and technical feasibility, the data provided enable an assessment of the general potential of the cell types for technology development and connect scientific research to industrial considerations.
Economic model predictive control of Li‐ion battery cyclic aging via online rainflow‐analysis
Authors: Loew Stefan , Anand Abhinav , Szabo Andrei
Published: January 2021

Cycle identification via the rainflow‐algorithm is implemented online in a model predictive controller (MPC) for Li‐ion batteries. This is achieved by externalization of the cycle identification from the optimization problem. The limitation for cyclic aging estimation due to short prediction horizons is overcome by updating and utilizing a State of Charge memory. Furthermore, a comprehensive plant model for Li‐ion batteries is presented with novel submodels for calendric and cyclic aging. The novel MPC is implemented in the ACADO Toolkit and tested with the aforementioned plant model. Simulation results indicate that—even without tuning—the novel MPC clearly outperforms a rule‐based controller and an extensively tuned MPC from literature.
We, too, are academia: Demanding a seat at the table
Authors: Laster Pirtle Whitney N.
Published: January 2021

This personal, reflexive, ethnographic essay is written in the tradition of Black feminist anthropological and sociological women thinkers who call‐to‐the‐table1 educational systems and academic disciplines to name experiences and harms, center marginalized voices, and offer visions for transformation. I share two tales about having, or not, a seat at the table in the figurative and literal sense. I incorporate Langston Hughes's poem, I, Too, an exposé about the irony of Black erasure in the America, to emphasize my statement about Black women's (in)visibility in academia.2 Throughout my essay, I offer endnotes to substantiate claims about Black women's rightful, yet oftentimes undervalued and sometimes abused, place in academia.3 I argue that we must demand a seat at academia's decision‐making tables until a transformed space is actualized—because we, too, are academia.
Effects of solvent—solvent fractionation on the total terpenoid content and in vitro anti‐inflammatory activity of Serevenia buxifolia bark extract
Authors: Truong Dieu‐Hien , Ta Nhat Thuy Anh , Pham Thanh Vy , Huynh Tan Dat , Do Quoc Truong Giang , Dinh Nguyen Chau Giang , Dang Cong Danh , Nguyen Thi Kim Chi , Bui Anh Vo
Published: January 2021

Severinia buxifolia (Rutaceae) is often used as a traditional medical plant. The present study was carried out to estimate the effects of solvents (petroleum ether and hexane: ethyl acetate) used in liquid–liquid extraction to total terpenoid content (TTC) and in vitro anti‐inflammatory activity of the extracts obtained from S. buxifolia bark. The results showed that solvent fractionation increased the TTC compared with crude extracts. The hexane: ethyl acetate bark extract fraction (HEF) had the highest TTC (731.48 µg/ml) in comparison with the petroleum ether bark extract fraction (PEF) (564.81 µg/ml) and the crude extract (CE) (184.26 µg/ml). In addition, one of composition of terpenoid of S. buxifolia, namely ursolic acid, was determined by HPLC method from the crude CE and the fractions PEF and HEF: 2.44 μg/g DW, 3.56 μg/g DW and 5.04 μg/g DW, respectively. The samples had an in vitro anti‐inflammatory activity comparable with that of two reference standards (aspirin and indomethacin). Particularly, the HEF fraction had the highest in vitro anti‐inflammatory activity (i.e., albumin denaturation: IC50 = 147.91 μg/mL, heat‐induced hemolysis: IC50 = 159.91 μg/mL, proteinase inhibition: IC50 = 117.72 μg/mL, and lipoxygenase activity: IC50 = 90.45 μg/mL). Besides, the preliminary experiments of this study were conducted to determine the influences of maceration factors (solvent type, temperature, and time) for S. buxifolia bark extract. The TTC ranged from 453.70 to 842.59 mg linalool/g DW, and the extraction yield from 2.40% to 5.120% in all extracts. Based on TTC and EY, the hexane: acetone mixture is recommended as the optimal solvent to obtain the crude bark extract (CE) at 46°C for 24 hr of maceration. Extracts of S. buxifolia bark are a promising source for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Prices and market power in mental health care: Evidence from a major policy change in the Netherlands
Authors: Brouns Chiara , Douven Rudy , Kemp Ron
Published: January 2021

In the Dutch health care system of managed competition, insurers and mental health providers negotiate on prices for mental health services. Contract prices are capped by a regulator who sets a maximum price for each mental health service. In 2013, the majority of the contract prices equaled these maximum prices. We study price setting after a major policy change in 2014. In 2014, mental health care providers had to negotiate prices with each individual health insurer separately, instead of with all insurers collectively as in 2013. Moreover, after a cost‐price revision, the regulator increased in 2014 maximum prices by about 10%. Insurers and mental health providers reacted to this policy change by setting most contract prices below the new maximum prices. We find that in 2014 mental health providers with more market power, that is, a higher willingness‐to‐pay measure, contracted significantly higher prices. Some insurers negotiated significantly lower prices than other insurers but these differences are unrelated to an insurers' market share.
Numerical investigation on latent heat thermal energy storage in a phase change material using a heat exchanger
Authors: Ghosh Debasree , Kumar Prasoon , Sharma Siddha , Guha Chandan , Ghose Joyjeet
Published: January 2021

The use of a heat exchanger using phase change material (PCM) is an example of latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES). In this study, the charging of PCM (RT50) is studied in a double pipe heat exchanger. The designing of the heat exchanger needs to be optimized for operating and boundary conditions to store latent heat efficiently. The size of the equipment and the amount of PCM are also important to calculate the latent heat storage capacity of the LHTES device. In this study, the amount of PCM taken is quite high to avoid sensible heat transfer and to maximize the heat content of PCM. The charging process of PCM is numerically simulated using an enthalpy‐porosity model. The study includes the effect of inlet temperature and flow rate of high‐temperature‐fluid (HTF) and concludes that both play an important role in determining the charging time. The continuous increase in inlet temperature of HTF can decrease the charging time of PCM in the heat exchanger. However, the continuous increase in the HTF flow rate cannot show the same effect. The charging time can only be minimized with a specified flow rate regime for a specific inlet temperature of HTF. These factors consequently affect the efficiency of the heat exchanger.
Unsteady 3D mixed convection flow of a chemically reactive Oldroyd‐B nanofluid configured by a periodically accelerated surface
Authors: Aziz Samaira , Ahmad Iftikhar , Ali Nasir , Khan Sami Ullah
Published: January 2021

Fundamental developments in nanotechnology have attracted the attention of scientists towards the interaction of nanoparticles due to their fascinating applications in thermal engineering and solar energy systems. Convinced by such motivating applications, the current research project addresses the utilization of nanoparticles in the unsteady three‐dimensional chemically reactive flow of an Oldroyd‐B fluid induced by a bidirectional oscillatory stretching surface. The effects of mixed convection are also considered here. The prime features of the nanofluid namely thermophoresis and Brownian motion characteristics are explored by introducing the famous Buongiorno's nanofluid model. The relevant equations for the formulated theoretical model have been reduced by the appropriate transformations for which the analytic solution is deliberated via the homotopic technique. Later on, a complete graphical analysis for distinct flow parameters is deliberated for dimensionless velocities, concentration, and temperature distributions with the relevant physical implications. Moreover, stimulating physical quantities like local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are numerically calculated and discussed. The study emphasizes that decreasing variation in both components of velocities has been reported with an increment of relaxation time, while the impact of the retardation time constant is quite opposite. It is further claimed that the velocity distribution has an increasing tendency in the horizontal direction for a higher buoyancy ratio and mixed convection parameters. Moreover, an increment in thermophoresis parameter enhances both temperature and concentration distributions.
Operation strategies of axial flow fans in a direct dry cooling system under various meteorological conditions
Authors: Huang Wenhui , Chen Lei , Yang Lijun , Du Xiaoze
Published: January 2021

For a direct dry cooling system, the turbine back pressure fluctuates with the meteorological conditions. Moreover, the operation of axial flow fans plays an important role in the cooling performance of air‐cooled condensers (ACC). It is of significant use to study the operation strategies of axial flow fans under various ambient conditions. Based on typical 2 × 660 MW direct dry cooling power generating units, the ACC model coupled with the turbine thermodynamic characteristics is developed, by which the thermo‐flow performances of the ACC are predicted in the dominant wind direction, and then the standard coal consumption is calculated. The results show that the increased ambient temperature and wind speed, or the reduced fan rotational speed leads to the high turbine back pressure. At the low ambient temperature and wind speed, the standard coal consumption rate of the unit can be reduced by reducing the speed of axial flow fans appropriately, with the maximum drop in coal consumption rate reached 0.734 g/(kWh) when the ambient temperature is 10°C without wind. If the wind speed exceeds 12 m/s or the ambient temperature reaches 25°C, 110% of the rated fan rotational speed is recommended.
Emerging and advanced economies markets behaviour during the COVID‐19 crisis era
Authors: Belaid Fateh , Ben Amar Amine , Goutte Stéphane , Guesmi Khaled
Published: January 2021

This article examines the consequences of the COVID‐19 crisis on the interdependencies between emerging and advanced economies. Using daily market index data from 22 developed and emerging markets, we develop a combination of statistical methods based on Diebold and Yilmaz spillover index and Toda–Yamamoto and Dolado and Lütkepohl causality approach. The results substantiate an increase in the interdependence between emerging and advances economies, which suggests an increase in the transmission of the stress and uncertainty between financial markets during the pandemic period. Our findings show that the emerging countries are affected by the financial markets of advanced economies during the COVID‐19 crisis and, in particular, by European markets, which appear to be the primary driver of contagion and transmission of stress and uncertainty to all other regional markets.
Ferutinin: A phytoestrogen from ferula and its anticancer, antioxidant, and toxicity properties
Authors: Naji Reyhani Garmroudi Shahrzad , Karimi Ehsan , Oskoueian Ehsan , Homayouni‐Tabrizi Masoud , Iranshahi Mehrdad
Published: January 2021

This study was performed to evaluate the antioxidant, anticancer, and toxicity properties of ferutinin, a phytoestrogen derived from Ferula species. The human Michigan Cancer Foundation‐7 (MCF‐7) breast cancer cell line and normal human fibroblast (HDF) were cultured and treated with different ferutinin concentrations. The cell viability was evaluated by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cell death‐defining tests (a comparative real‐time polymerase chain reaction [for Bax and Bcl‐2 genes], flow cytometry, and acridine orange/propidium iodide cell staining). Moreover, 15 white male balb/c mice were divided into three groups of five (one untreated control group and two groups), which received different doses of ferutinin‐supplemented water (500 and 1000 µg/kg mice weight) to check the mice liver and kidney pathomorphological alterations and to determine the antioxidant enzymes' expression profile (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], and glutathione peroxidase) in the mentioned tissues. Finally, the liver lipid peroxidation of mice was analyzed. The results of MTT and cell death‐defining tests indicate the significant reduction in cell viability and induction of apoptotic death in MCF‐7 cells (enhanced sub‐G1 peaks, Bax overexpression, Bcl‐2 downregulation, and increased apoptotic cells). The antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT) in the mice liver and kidney cells were found to be upregulated (p < .05) in response to the increasing doses of ferutinin. Besides, the lipid peroxidation of the liver tissue of mice was significantly reduced. According to the results, we suggest that ferutinin has the potential to be served as a selective anticancer compound for breast cancer treatment.
Synthesis, molecular docking, antibacterial, and anti‐inflammatory activities of benzimidazole‐containing tricyclic systems
Authors: Kamat Vinuta , Yallur Basappa C. , Poojary Boja , Patil Veerabhadragouda B. , Nayak Suresh P. , Krishna Panchangam Murali , Joshi Shrinivas D.
Published: January 2021

In the present study, we reported the synthesis of benzimidazole‐containing tricyclic systems and evaluated their antimicrobial efficacy against some Gram‐positive, Gram‐negative strains, and their anti‐inflammatory activity as well as a hemolytic assay in terms of percentage. The antimicrobial study of the synthesized compounds revealed that most of them showed significant activity, and compound 5b displayed excellent antimicrobial efficacy among all. Results showed that the hydroxyl group at the fourth position on the aromatic ring has a substantial role in the biological activity. Synthesized compounds showed promising minimum inhibitory concentration (μg/mL) values in the range of 1.2–12.8 μg/mL against the tested strains. The in vitro anti‐inflammatory activity of these compounds was evaluated by denaturation of bovine serum albumin method and showed the inhibition in the range of IC50 value 31.16–94.63 μg/mL. Among all the tested compounds, compound 5b has a significant IC50 value. The percentage of hemolysis of the target compounds ranged from 1.14 to 52.8 at a concentration of 100 μg/mL. Molecular docking study revealed the good binding interactions against Escherichia coli, and it is best suited with in vitro studies. Pharmacokinetic studies showed the safe profiles for the title compounds.
Pharmacological modulation of dual melanocortin‐4 receptor signaling by melanocortin receptor accessory proteins in the Xenopus laevis
Authors: Li Lei , Xu Ying , Zheng Jihong , Kuang Zhe , Zhang Cong , Li Na , Lin Gufa , Zhang Chao
Published: January 2021

Physiological modulation of melanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R) signaling by MRAP2 proteins plays an indispensable role in appetite control and energy homeostasis in the central nervous system. Great interspecies differences of the interaction and regulation of melanocortin receptors by MRAP protein family have been reported in several diploid vertebrates but never been investigated in the tetrapod amphibian Xenopus laevis. Here, we performed phylogenetic and synteny‐based analyses to explore the evolutionary aspects of dual copies of X. laevis MC4R (xlMC4R) and MRAP2 (xlMRAP2) proteins. Our data showed that xlMRAPs directly interacted with xlMC4Rs on the cell surface as a functional antiparallel dimeric topology and pharmacological studies suggested a homology specific regulatory pattern of the melanocortin system in X. laevis.
Reference values for pulsatility index of fetal anterior and posterior cerebral arteries in prolonged pregnancy
Authors: Rosati Paolo , Buongiorno Silvia , Salvi Silvia , Lanzone Antonio , Familiari Alessandra
Published: January 2021

Objective

To establish consistent normal reference values for fetal anterior cerebral artery (ACA) and posterior cerebral artery (PCA) pulsatility index (PI) in prolonged pregnancy.

Methods

This prospective cross‐sectional observational study included singleton normal prolonged pregnancies into two study groups according to the gestational age: from 40 + 0 to 40 + 6 and from 41 + 0 to 41 + 6 weeks. The PI was assessed in both anatomical segments of ACA (ACA‐S1 and ACA‐S2) and of PCA (PCA‐S1 and PCA‐S2) with color Doppler imaging and pulsed Doppler examination, and reference centiles charts were generated. PI values from the two investigated segments of each vessel were also compared.

Results

Data were obtained in 771 patients: n = 448 in the 40 + 0 and 40 + 6 weeks group, and n = 323 in the 41 + 0 and 41 + 6 weeks group. A moderate decrease in PI was observed as pregnancy progressed. No differences in PI values were found between the two anatomical segments of ACA and PCA.

Conclusion

This study provides Doppler reference values for the fetal ACA and PCA PI. It also shows that Doppler examination could be performed indifferently in one of the two anatomical segments of these arteries.
Effects of proanthocyanidins on the pasting, rheological and retrogradation properties of potato starch
Authors: Gao Lizhi , Zhang Chenghao , Chen Jun , Liu Chengmei , Dai Taotao , Chen Mingshun , Li Ti
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Proanthocyanidins (PAS) were complexed with potato starch (PS) to prepare polyphenol–starch complexes. The pasting, rheological and retrogradation properties of the complexes were investigated.

RESULTS

The addition of PAS markedly affected the pasting, rheological and retrogradation properties of PS, especially at a concentration of 5% (w/w). Rapid viscosity analysis indicated that PAS significantly changed the viscosity, breakdown and setback value of PS. The rheological results showed that PAS decreased the flow behavior index and consistency coefficient, but increased the viscoelasticity of PS. Differential scanning calorimetry and X‐ray diffraction indicated that PAS delayed the retrogradation of PS. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy indicated that the morphologies of retrograded PS gels were greatly altered to a less compact structure with the presence of PAS. Moreover, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy elucidated that PAS interacted with PS via a noncovalent interaction, and inhibited the retrogradation of PS.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggested that supplementing PS with PAS might be an effective and convenient method for modifying the physicochemical properties of PS. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Hypoglycemic effect of low‐sugar juice derived from Hovenia dulcis on type 1 diabetes mellitus rats
Authors: Yang Bing , Wei Xunyu , Luo Yuxin , Kan Jianquan
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Fruit juice is usually rich in monosaccharides and disaccharides. A reverse osmosis separation machine was used to remove monosaccharides and disaccharides from Hovenia dulcis fruit juice, leaving behind most of the bioactive substances in a low‐sugar fruit juice (LSFJ), so as to provide a more effective treatment for diabetic patients.

METHOD

This study was carried out with type 1 diabetes mellitus model induced with high dose of streptozotocin (60 mg kg−1), and oral administration of LSFJ for 4 weeks.

RESULTS

LSFJ treatment led to significant gain in body weight and increased serum insulin level, insulin‐like growth factor‐1 level, blood urea nitrogen level, creatinine level, and hepatic glycogen level. Meanwhile, fasting blood glucose, fructosamine level, and glucose tolerance were also observably enhanced. Additional, LSFJ treatment significantly improved lipid metabolism, islet quality, and islet oxidative stress. The messenger RNA levels of glucose metabolism genes in the pancreas of diabetic rats decreased in the diabetes model group, whereas messenger RNA expression of these genes was significantly increased with LSFJ treatment.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that LSFJ can improve symptoms associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The research also suggests new strategies for diabetes prevention and treatment. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of the fatty acid profile on the volatile components of virgin olive oil subjected to thermal stress
Authors: Tomé‐Rodríguez Sonia , Ledesma‐Escobar Carlos A , Penco‐Valenzuela José M , Priego‐Capote Feliciano
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Virgin olive oil (VOO) is greatly appreciated for its organoleptic features, which can be ascribed mainly to the presence of very chemically diverse volatile components. It is well known that the VOO volatile fraction depends strongly on different aspects, which encompass genetic, agronomic, processing, and post‐processing factors. In this research, we developed a method for the qualitative and semiquantitative determination of volatile components in VOOs subjected to thermal stress by headspace extraction online coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS–GC–MS).

RESULTS

The method was applied to 100 extra‐virgin olive oil (EVOO) samples, which led to the tentative identification of 52 volatile components, including 12 alcohols, 17 aldehydes, three ketones, one ether, two furans, two carboxylic acids, and 15 hydrocarbons. The method was used to study the cultivar effect and the main biochemical pathways involved in the synthesis of volatile compounds, with special emphasis on those formed by degradation of unsaturated fatty acids (FAs). Principal component analysis (PCA), explaining 76.7% of the total variability, showed that the volatile profile of EVOOs subjected to thermal stress allowed discriminating samples from different cultivars.

CONCLUSION

Volatiles detected in EVOOs subjected to thermal stress with the highest contribution to discrimination between the selected cultivars were correlated with the concentration of the three main FAs in VOO, namely oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids. The FA profile seems to be especially relevant to explain the concentration of certain volatile compounds with direct incidence on the organoleptic properties. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Curcumin regulates EZH2/Wnt/β‐Catenin pathway in the mandible and femur of ovariectomized osteoporosis rats
Authors: Jiang Qi , Lei Yong‐Hua , Krishnadath Dewi Chrystal , Zhu Bing‐Yu , Zhou Xiong‐Wen
Published: January 2021

Osteoporosis (OP) behaves in different manners in different parts of the skeleton. This study aims to investigate the effects of curcumin on bone mass of the mandibular and femur from ovariectomized OP rats and to validate whether enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)/Wnt/β‐Catenin pathway is involved in this process. Curcumin was administered intragastrically into ovariectomized rats for 12 weeks. The bone parameters and the morphology of the trabecular bone of the left mandible and left femur were assessed by micro‐computed tomography assay. Morphological changes of the left mandible and left femur were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The mRNA levels of EZH2, β‐Catenin, and Runx2 in the right mandible and right femur were examined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemistry was performed to assess EZH2 expression. Both the mandible and femur exhibited OP‐like changes in ovariectomized rats, while the mandible bone resorption was less than the femur bone resorption. Curcumin intragastric administration improved bone microstructure and promoted bone formation in the mandible and femur. Curcumin inhibited EZH2 mRNA level and induced that of β‐Catenin and Runx2 in the mandible and femur. Collectively, curcumin exerts protective effects against OP, possibly by regulating the EZH2/Wnt/β‐Catenin pathway.
A method for characterizing dissolved DNA and its application to the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre
Authors: Linney Morgan D. , Schvarcz Christopher R. , Steward Grieg F. , DeLong Edward F. , Karl David M.
Published: January 2021

Dissolved DNA (D‐DNA) is a ubiquitous component of dissolved organic matter in aquatic systems. It is operationally defined as the DNA that passes a membrane filter and thus includes pools of truly dissolved “free” DNA (F‐DNA), virion encapsidated DNA, DNA within membrane vesicles, and possibly other bound forms, each with different sources and lability. We investigated whether filtration (< 0.1 μm), concentration by tangential flow ultrafiltration (> 30 kDa), and fractionation in an equilibrium buoyant density gradient could be used to discriminate the mass contributions of the different pools of filterable DNA in seawater. Spike‐in experiments with a known range of DNA standards (75–20,000 bp) indicated that this method results in high recoveries of F‐DNA (68–86%) with minimal degradation. Application of the fractionation method to seawater samples collected from the oligotrophic North Pacific Ocean followed by analysis of fractions (epifluorescence and electron microscopy, DNase digestion) suggested that the low‐density fractions (1.30–1.35 g mL−1) were dominated by vesicle‐like particles, mid‐density fractions (1.45–1.55 g mL−1) by virus‐like particles, and high‐density fractions (1.60–1.70 g mL−1) by F‐DNA. The estimated concentration of DNA that is either F‐DNA, in viruses, or in vesicles was 0.13, 0.14, and 0.08 μg L−1, respectively in the euphotic zone and 0.09, 0.04, and 0.03 μg L−1, respectively in the mesopelagic zone. The approach described should be useful for more detailed investigations of the abundance, dynamics, and sources of DNA in the distinct pools that comprise filterable DNA in aquatic environments.
Enabling Optical Steganography, Data Storage, and Encryption with Plasmonic Colors
Authors: Song Maowen , Wang Di , Kudyshev Zhaxylyk A. , Xuan Yi , Wang Zhuoxian , Boltasseva Alexandra , Shalaev Vladimir M. , Kildishev Alexander V.
Published: January 2021

Plasmonic color generation utilizing ultrathin metasurfaces as well as metallic nanoparticles holds a great promise for a wide range of applications including color displays, data storage, and information encryption due to its high spatial resolution and mechanical/chemical stability. Most of the recently demonstrated systems generate static colors; however, more advanced applications such as data storage require fast and flexible means to tune the plasmonic colors, while keeping them vibrant and stable. Here, a surface‐relief aluminum metasurface that reflects polarization‐tunable plasmonic colors is designed and experimentally demonstrated. Excitation of localized surface plasmons encodes discrete combinations of the incident and reflected polarized light into diverse colors. A single storage unit, namely a nanopixel, stores multiple‐bit information in the orientation of its constituent nanoantennae, which is conveniently retrived by inspecting the reflected color sequence with two linear polarizers. Owing to the broad color variability and high spatial resolution of the metasurface, the proposed encoding approach holds a strong promise for rapid parallel readout and encryption of high‐density optical data. The method also enables robust generation of dynamic kaleidoscopic images without the “cross‐talk” effect. The approach opens up a new route for advanced dynamic steganography, high‐density parallel‐access optical data storage, and optical information encryption.
Repeatability of IVIM biomarkers from diffusion‐weighted MRI in head and neck: Bayesian probability versus neural network
Authors: Koopman Thomas , Martens Roland , Gurney‐Champion Oliver J. , Yaqub Maqsood , Lavini Cristina , de Graaf Pim , Castelijns Jonas , Boellaard Ronald , Marcus J. Tim
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) model for DWI might provide useful biomarkers for disease management in head and neck cancer. This study compared the repeatability of three IVIM fitting methods to the conventional nonlinear least‐squares regression: Bayesian probability estimation, a recently introduced neural network approach, IVIM‐NET, and a version of the neural network modified to increase consistency, IVIM‐NETmod.

Methods

Ten healthy volunteers underwent two imaging sessions of the neck, two weeks apart, with two DWI acquisitions per session. Model parameters (ADC, diffusion coefficient , perfusion fraction , and pseudo‐diffusion coefficient ) from each fit method were determined in the tonsils and in the pterygoid muscles. Within‐subject coefficients of variation (wCV) were calculated to assess repeatability. Training of the neural network was repeated 100 times with random initialization to investigate consistency, quantified by the coefficient of variance.

Results

The Bayesian and neural network approaches outperformed nonlinear regression in terms of wCV. Intersession wCV of in the tonsils was 23.4% for nonlinear regression, 9.7% for Bayesian estimation, 9.4% for IVIM‐NET, and 11.2% for IVIM‐NETmod. However, results from repeated training of the neural network on the same data set showed differences in parameter estimates: The coefficient of variances over the 100 repetitions for IVIM‐NET were 15% for both and , and 94% for ; for IVIM‐NETmod, these values improved to 5%, 9%, and 62%, respectively.

Conclusion

Repeatabilities from the Bayesian and neural network approaches are superior to that of nonlinear regression for estimating IVIM parameters in the head and neck.
COVID‐19 accelerates online learning trends, need for portable credentials
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2021

The need to move classrooms online caused by the disruption of the COVID‐19 pandemic in March 2020 could have long‐term, potentially positive consequences for the future of online learning and adult students. That finding comes from a report from the Longevity Project and Infrastructure entitled “New Horizons: American Universities and the Case for Lifelong Learning.”
Genetic factors involved in delayed methotrexate elimination in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Cheng Yu , Chen Mao‐hua , Zhuang Qian , Lin Bi‐juan , Chen Ying‐ying , Yang Ling , Liu Mao‐bai , Que Wan‐cai , Qiu Hong‐qiang
Published: January 2021

Background

Delayed excretion of methotrexate can lead to life‐threatening toxicity that may result in treatment cessation, irreversible organ damage, and death. Various factors have been demonstrated to influence the pharmacokinetic process of methotrexate, including genetic and nongenetic factors.

Methods

We investigated the genetic factors primarily related to the metabolic pathway of methotrexate in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia with delayed elimination, defined as C44‐48h ≥ 1.0μmol/L in this study. A total of 196 patients (delayed excretion group: 98; normal excretion group: 98) who received CCCG‐ALL‐2015 protocol after propensity score‐matched analysis were included in the study. Twenty‐eight target single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction and sequencing, and 25 SNPs were finally included in the study.

Results

The genotype distribution of SLCO1B1 rs2306283 SNP was different between the delayed and normal excretion groups. SLCO1B1 rs2306283 AA carriers had a significantly lower methotrexate C44‐48h/D ratio than GG carriers in both groups. Furthermore, compared with the normal excretion group, SLCO1B1 rs2306283 AG and GG were risk factors for developing oral mucositis (odds ratio [OR]: 2.13; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11‐4.08; P < .001), hepatotoxicity (OR: 2.12; 95% CI: 1.26‐3.56; P < .001), and myelosuppression (OR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.04‐1.41; P = .005) in delayed excretion group.

Conclusions

The results from this study indicate the potential role of SLCO1B1 rs2306283 as a pharmacogenomic marker to guide and optimize methotrexate treatment for delayed elimination in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Parental decision making regarding consent to randomization on Children's Oncology Group AALL0932
Authors: Parker Kellee , Cottrell Erika , Stork Linda , Lindemulder Susan
Published: January 2021

Background

Within pediatric oncology, parental decision making regarding participation in clinical trials that aim to reduce therapy to mitigate side effects is not well studied. The recently completed Children's Oncology Group trial for standard‐risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (AALL0932) included a reduction in maintenance therapy, and required consent for randomization immediately prior to starting maintenance. At our institution, 40% of children enrolled on AALL0932 were withdrawn from protocol therapy prior to randomization due to parental choice. This study sought to identify factors that impacted parental decision making regarding randomization on AALL0932.

Procedure

Parents of children enrolled on AALL0932 at our institution were eligible if their child met criteria for the average‐risk randomization. Parents were invited to participate in a 30‐50‐minute phone interview. Questions focused on factors that shaped parental decision making about randomization, as well as their perspectives about the clinical trial experience more generally.

Results

Fear of receiving less therapy and subsequent relapse was the predominant reason to decline randomization. Reasons given for consenting to randomization included trust in the physician, altruism, hope for less therapy, and potential for fewer side effects. Parents also reflected on ways to support future families making decisions about clinical trial participation.

Conclusion

While many parents recognize the importance of clinical trials aiming to mitigate side effects, the fear of their own child relapsing with less than standard therapy may dissuade them from study participation. Recognizing and addressing these concerns will be important for enrollment and retention in future clinical trials.
Linear Burning Rate and Erosivity Properties of Nitrocellulose Propellant Formulations Plasticized by Glycidyl Azide Polymer and Nitroglycerine
Authors: Comtois Etienne , Favis Basil D. , Dubois Charles
Published: January 2021

The performance of the extruded cord geometry of nitrocellulose (NC) propellants plasticized by glycidyl azide polymer (GAP) and nitroglycerine (NG) has been evaluated using both closed and erosion vented vessel techniques in order to obtain the linear burning rate and the relative erosivity of these propellants. The closed vessel experiments performed at −46, 21 and 63 °C demonstrate that the measured maximum pressure is in accordance with the calculation obtained using the CHEETAH V2 thermochemical code. From the closed vessel analysis, the linear burning rates show that it is on average 89±3 % that of the 21 °C propellant when fired at −46 °C. and 112±4 % when fired at 63 °C. The addition of either GAP or NG increases the linear burning rate when compared to the neat NC formulation. Relative erosion data obtained in the erosion vented vessel are in agreement with the Arisawa‐Kimura models and it is found that the ratio of CO/CO2 concentration in combustion gases is a better erosivity indicator than N2/CO ratio.
SEMA3C induces androgen synthesis in prostatic stromal cells through paracrine signaling
Authors: Yenki Parvin , Adomat Hans H. , Ong Christopher J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Castration resistant prostate cancer progression is associated with an acquired intratumoral androgen synthesis. Signaling pathways that can upregulate androgen production in prostate tumor microenvironment are not entirely known. In this study, we investigate the potential effect of a secreted signaling protein named semaphorin 3C (SEMA3C) on steroidogenic activities of prostatic stromal cells.

Methods

We treated human primary prostate stromal cells (PrSC) with 1uM recombinant SEMA3C protein and androgen precursor named dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) 1.7uM. Also, to test SEMA3C's effect on the conversion of DHEA to androgens, we exposed PrSCs to the conditioned media derived from LNCaP cells that were transduced with a lentiviral vector harboring full length SEMA3C gene or empty vector (CM‐LNSEMA3C or CM‐LNVector). Then, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry was performed on steroids isolated from PrSCs media. The messnger RNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes in PrSCs was quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Recombinant SEMA3C had no effect on steroidogenic activities in PrSCs. However, key steroidogenic enzymes expression and androgen synthesis were upregulated in PrSCs treated with CM‐LNSEMA3C, compared to those treated with CM‐LNVector. These results suggest that steroidogenic activities in PrSCs were upregulated in response to a signaling factor in CM‐LNSEMA3C, other than SEMA3C. We hypothesized that SEMA3C overexpression in LNCaP cells affected androgen synthesis in PrSCs through sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway activation in PrSCs. We verified this effect by blocking Shh signaling with smoothened antagonist.

Conclusion

Based on known ability of Shh signaling pathway to activate steroidogenesis in stromal cells, we suggest that SEMA3C overexpression in LNCaP cells can upregulate Shh which in turn is able to stimulate steroidogenic activities in prostatic stromal cells.
Having a child within a cohabiting union in Europe and North America: What is the role of parents' socio‐economic status?
Authors: Koops Judith C. , Liefbroer Aart C. , Gauthier Anne H.
Published: January 2021

The link between parental socio‐economic status (SES) and the likelihood of having a birth in cohabitation or in marriage varies considerably across countries. Previous studies have referred to the pattern of disadvantage perspective and the second demographic transition theory to explain this cross‐national variation. Yet no study has directly tested the explanatory power of both theories in this context. In the current study, hypotheses are formulated about the influence of economic inequality and norms regarding family formation on this relationship. The hypotheses are tested in 19 European and North American countries, using data of the Generations and Gender Survey and four other datasets. The analyses show that in societies that have more traditional family formation norms, women with lower parental SES are more likely to have a birth in cohabitation whereas such differences are not found in less traditional societies. The influence of economic inequality is less clear‐cut.
Quantitative modeling predicts competitive advantages of a next generation anti‐NKG2A monoclonal antibody over monalizumab for the treatment of cancer
Authors: Spinosa Phillip , Musial‐Siwek Monika , Presler Marc , Betts Alison , Rosentrater Emily , Villali Janice , Wille Lucia , Zhao Yang , McCaughtry Tom , Subramanian Kalyanasundaram , Liu Hanlan
Published: January 2021

A semimechanistic pharmacokinetic (PK)/receptor occupancy (RO) model was constructed to differentiate a next generation anti‐NKG2A monoclonal antibody (KSQ mAb) from monalizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor in multiple clinical trials for the treatment of solid tumors. A three‐compartment model incorporating drug PK, biodistribution, and NKG2A receptor interactions was parameterized using monalizumab PK, in vitro affinity measurements for both monalizumab and KSQ mAb, and receptor burden estimates from the literature. Following calibration against monalizumab PK data in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the model successfully predicted the published PK and RO observed in gynecological tumors and in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Simulations predicted that the KSQ mAb requires a 10‐fold lower dose than monalizumab to achieve a similar RO over a 3‐week period following q3w intravenous (i.v.) infusion dosing. A global sensitivity analysis of the model indicated that the drug‐target binding affinity greatly affects the tumor RO and that an optimal affinity is needed to balance RO with enhanced drug clearance due to target mediated drug disposition. The model predicted that the KSQ mAb can be dosed over a less frequent regimen or at lower dose levels than the current monalizumab clinical dosing regimen of 10 mg/kg q2w. Either dosing strategy represents a competitive advantage over the current therapy. The results of this study demonstrate a key role for mechanistic modeling in identifying optimal drug parameters to inform and accelerate progression of mAb to clinical trials.
Ferroelectric Properties and Polarization Fatigue of La:HfO2 Thin‐Film Capacitors
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Li Chen , Xu Zhiyu , Li Yongsheng , Yang Yihao , Hu Haihua , Jiang Zhizheng , Wang Jiayi , Ren Jiaxin , Zheng Chunyan , Lu Chaojing , Wen Zheng
Published: January 2021

Recently, doped HfO2 thin films have attracted considerable attention because of promising applications in complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS)‐compatible ferroelectric memories. Herein, the ferroelectric properties and polarization fatigue of La:HfO2 thin‐film capacitors are reported. By varying the substrate lattice constant and film thickness, a robust remanent polarization of ≈16 μC cm−2 is achieved in a 12 nm‐thick Pt/La:HfO2/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 capacitor. Fatigue measurements are conducted using designed pulse sequences, in which the voltage, pulse width, and interval time are changed to observe the evolution of switchable polarization with increasing cycles. Severe fatigue is observed when the La:HfO2 capacitors are partially switched and the interval between the bipolar switching is elongated. These behaviors may be ascribed to the domain wall pinning scenario, in which domain switching is blocked by the migration and aggregation of charges on non‐electroneutral walls. Further analysis of the fatigue behaviors with a nucleation‐limited‐switching model shows that the mean time and activation field for polarization switching are increased in fatigued La:HfO2 capacitors because electrical stimuli are required to disperse the aggregated charges before the domains are set free. These results facilitate the design and fabrication of HfO2‐based ferroelectric memories with improved device reliability.
Cancer‐on‐a‐Chip for Modeling Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor and Tumor Interactions
Authors: Jiang Xing , Ren Li , Tebon Peyton , Wang Canran , Zhou Xingwu , Qu Moyuan , Zhu Jixiang , Ling Haonan , Zhang Shiming , Xue Yumeng , Wu Qingzhi , Bandaru Praveen , Lee Junmin , Kim Han‐Jun , Ahadian Samad , Ashammakhi Nureddin , Dokmeci Mehmet R. , Wu Jinhui , Gu Zhen , Sun Wujin , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: January 2021

Cancer immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐based therapies, have revolutionized cancer treatment. However, patient response to ICIs is highly variable, necessitating the development of methods to quickly assess efficacy. In this study, an array of miniaturized bioreactors has been developed to model tumor‐immune interactions. This immunotherapeutic high‐throughput observation chamber (iHOC) is designed to test the effect of anti‐PD‐1 antibodies on cancer spheroid (MDA‐MB‐231, PD‐L1+) and T cell (Jurkat) interactions. This system facilitates facile monitoring of T cell inhibition and reactivation using metrics such as tumor infiltration and interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) secretion. Status of the tumor‐immune interactions can be easily captured within the iHOC by measuring IL‐2 concentration using a micropillar array where sensitive, quantitative detection is allowed after antibody coating on the surface of array. The iHOC is a platform that can be used to model and monitor cancer‐immune interactions in response to immunotherapy in a high‐throughput manner.
Nanojet Trapping of a Single Sub‐10 nm Upconverting Nanoparticle in the Full Liquid Water Temperature Range
Authors: Lu Dasheng , Pedroni Marco , Labrador‐Páez Lucía , Marqués Manuel I. , Jaque Daniel , Haro‐González Patricia
Published: January 2021

Upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) have been used as optical probes in a great variety of scenarios ranging from cells to animal models. When optically trapped, a single UCNP can be remotely manipulated making possible, for instance, thermal scanning in the surroundings of a living cell. When conventional optics is used, the stability of an optically trapped UCNP is very limited. Its reduced size leads to optical potentials comparable to thermal energy, and up to now, stable optical trapping of a UCNP has been demonstrated only close to room temperature. This fact limits their use above room temperature, for instance, the use to investigate protein denaturalization that occurs in the 40–50 °C range. In this work, stable optical trapping of a single UCNP in the 20–90 °C range has been demonstrated by using a photonic nanojet. The use of an optically trapped microsphere makes it possible to overcome the diffraction limit producing another optical trap of smaller size and enhanced strength. This simple strategy leads not only to an improvement in the thermal stability of the optical trap but also to an enhancement of the emission intensity generated by the optically trapped UCNP.
Engineering Bimetallic NiFe‐Based Hydroxides/Selenides Heterostructure Nanosheet Arrays for Highly‐Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Liu Caichi , Han Yu , Yao Libing , Liang Limin , He Jiayin , Hao Qiuyan , Zhang Jun , Li Ying , Liu Hui
Published: January 2021

Developing cost‐effective and high‐efficiency electrocatalysts toward alkaline oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is crucial for water splitting. Amorphous bimetallic NiFe‐based (oxy)hydroxides have excellent OER activity under alkaline media, but their poorly electrical conductivity impedes the further improvement of their catalytic performance. Herein, a bimetallic NiFe‐based heterostructure electrocatalyst that is composed of amorphous NiFe(OH)x and crystalline pyrite (Ni, Fe)Se2 nanosheet arrays is designed and constructed. The catalyst exhibits an outstanding OER performance, only requiring low overpotentials of 180, 220, and 230 mV at the current density of 10, 100, and 300 mA cm−2 and a low Tafel slope of 42 mV dec−1 in 1 m KOH, which is among the state‐of‐the‐art OER catalysts. Based on the experimental and theoretical results, the electronic coupling at the interface that leads to the increased electrical conductivity and the optimized adsorption free energies of the oxygen‐contained intermediates plays a crucial role in enhancing the OER activities. This work focusing on improving the OER performance via engineering amorphous‐crystalline bimetallic heterostructure may provide some inspiration for reasonably designing advanced electrocatalysts.
Management of NMIBC during BCG shortage and COVID‐19
Authors: Mayor Nikhil , Fankhauser Christian , Sangar Vijay , Mostafid Hugh
Published: January 2021

Shortages of Bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) have implications for the management of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancers. Further complications come as a result of COVID‐19 for which BCG also shows some promising prospects.