bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern of Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Central India
Authors: Rathi Sushil , Hajare Sumit Ashok , Jaiswal Saurabh , Agrawal Sandip , Kherde Abhijit , Mishra Dharmendra
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) pose a major health, social and economic problem worldwide, predominantly in developing countries like India. It is essential to understand the current patterns of STIs in the various regions of the country in order to plan and implement strategies to control the spread of infection. Aim: To study the pattern of STIs among patients attending the STI clinic. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of data obtained retrospectively from case records over last seven years (January 2013-December 2019) from STI clinic at a tertiary care hospital at Nagpur. The demographic details, detailed history, clinical findings were noted and relevant investigations were performed. The patients were diagnosed as per syndromic approach and subjected to serologic tests for syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The data was analysed by using MS Excel and Epi Info software, and percentage, mean, standard deviation and proportions were calculated. Results: Out of the total 4471 cases, 2807 (62.8%) were males and 1664 (37.2%) were females. The most commonly observed STI was balanoposthitis, followed by cervico-vaginal discharge, Genital Ulcerative Disease- Herpetic (GUD-H), anogenital warts, molluscum contagiosum, GUD-nonherpetic, urethral discharge, lower abdominal pain and inguinal bubo. The proportion of viral STIs was 33.5% (1495 cases) and bacterial STIs were 4.3% (191 cases). The most commonly observed STI was balanoposthitis in males and cervico-vaginal discharge in females. Newly diagnosed cases of HIV were 1.4% (61 cases) of total cases. Conclusion: The proportion of viral STIs was higher compared to bacterial STIs. The prevalence of HIV among study population was 3.9%. Since STIs are indicators of high risk sexual behaviour in the community and a major health burden with risk of development of HIV, prompt diagnosis and adequate treatment of STIs is necessary.
Study on Correlation between Lipid Accumulation Product and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Levels in Hypothyroidism
Authors: Rajaragupathy Sujatha , Karthikeyan Jayagowri , Mahalekshmi Egna
Published: April 2021

Introduction:Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is one of the established causes of mortality and morbidity in hypothyroid patients. A predictor of cardiovascular risk in hypothyroid patients becomes essential to prevent the occurrence of cardiac event. One such prognosticator of CVD is the Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP). Aim: To compare the trend of LAP scores in hypothyroid patients with that of healthy controls. Materials and Methods: After obtaining approval from the Ethics Committee, this cross-sectional study was conducted. After obtaining written informed consent, details such as age, gender, waist circumference, serum Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), and serum triglyceride levels were collected.LAP was calculated among study participants as follows: LAP for men={Waist circumference (cm)-65}×{Triglyceride concentration (mmol/L)}.LAP for women={Waist circumference (cm)-58}×{Triglyceride concentration (mmol/L)}. Statistical analysis was performed with Microsoft excel and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 24.0 for Windows. Results: The total number of participants were 118 among which 59 (50%) were hypothyroid cases and 59 (50%) were healthy controls. The two groups had statistically significant difference in their LAP scores. The mean LAP score among cases and controls was 38.6±15.6 cm.mmol/L and 30.9±13.2 cm.mmol/L, respectively with a p-value of 0.004. The LAP scores showed positive correlation with TSH levels with r-value of 0.784 and p-value <0.001 by Pearson’s correlation. Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a significant correlation between LAP score and TSH levels and LAP scores are significantly higher in hypothyroid patients.
A Cross-sectional Study of Anatomical Variations of Coronary Ostia in the Adult Human Hearts and its Clinical Significance
Authors: Mobin Najma , Basavanagowdappa H , Madhu B
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The knowledge of anatomical variations of the coronary ostia is an important factor in the study of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). With the adaptation of sedentary life style and increasing stress, CHD has become the major cause of death in many countries. Aim: To describe the location, size and shape of the coronary ostia in cadaveric hearts. Materials and Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 110 adult human hearts, 90 males and 20 females with a mean age of 66 years, which were collected from the mortuary from March 2017 to March 2019. The aorta was dissected and the aortic sinuses were opened, the number, location, size, shape and anomalous presence of accessory coronary ostia was noted and the measurements were taken using vernier calipers. Results: The Right Coronary Artery (RCA) was seen taking origin from the anterior aortic sinus and the Left Coronary Artery (LCA) from the left posterior aortic sinus in all the 110 hearts. The mean diameter of the Left Coronary Ostia (LCO) was 3.66±0.40 mm and found to be greater than the Right Coronary Ostia (RCO) 3.43±0.38 mm. Variations in the location and shape of the RCO and LCO were noted, and presence of single accessory coronary ostia was observed in five cases. Presence of multiple accessory coronary ostia was observed in only one case and its presence was found to be very rare. Conclusion: The diameter of the LCO was found to be greater than the RCO and the shape was circular in most of the coronary ostia. The majority of the coronary ostia were found to be located within the aortic sinuses below the Sinutubular Junction (STJ). Anatomical knowledge of the coronary ostia in the ascending aorta is very important during cardiac interventions around the aortic root.
Золотой дождь астроблем, "Природа"
Authors: Портнов А.М.
Published: April 2021

Попигайская астроблема окружена ореолом стабильного маггемита с иридием и другими платиноидами, с золотом, торием, REE. Генезис его связан с плазменным выбросом охристой пыли. Здесь же расположены россыпи тороидального (эолового) золота, нередко со значительной примесью Рd, Ir, Ni и с включениями нетипичных для него корунда, шпинели, гематита. Вместе с золотом присутствуют тугоплавкие платиновые минералы и каплевидный торианит. Предполагается, что тороидальная форма золотинок обусловлена выпадением благородных металлов при охлаждении плазмы.
ЧЕРНЫЕ ДЫРЫ, СИНГУЛЯРНОСТИ И ЦЕНТР ГАЛАКТИКИ, "Земля и Вселенная"
Authors: Постнов К.А. , ЧЕРЕПАЩУК А.М.
Published: April 2021

Второй год подряд самая престижная научная Нобелевская премия по физике присуждается за теоретические исследования в области гравитации и космологии и высококлассные астрономические наблюдения. В 2019 г. – Дж. Пиблзу за теоретические исследования в области физической космологии и астрономам М. Майору и Д. Кело за открытие экзопланеты вокруг звезды солнечного типа. В 2020 г. половина Нобелевской премии по физике присуждена математику Роджеру Пенроузу «за открытие, что образование черных дыр является надежным предсказанием общей теории относительности». Вторая половина – астрономам Андреа Гез и Райнхарду Генцелю – «за открытие компактного сверхмассивного объекта в центре нашей Галактики».
Звездные скопления: в космическое будущее с Gaia, "Земля и Вселенная"
Authors: Сизова М.Д. , Верещагин С.В. , Тутуков А.В.
Published: April 2021

Название нашей статьи навеяно инструментальными и теоретическими успехами в изучении звездных скоплений, возникающими прямо сейчас, на наших глазах. Результаты последних лет резко ускорили понимание эволюции звездных скоплений. Множество ученых, как никогда ранее, принялись изучать звездные скопления и результат их эволюции – звездные потоки. Стимул этому дали результаты космического проекта Gaia, показав беспрецедентную точность измерений звездных параметров. Буквально «прямо сейчас» в научном обиходе появилась третья редакция данных Gaia. Это гарантия того, что в ближайшем будущем копилка знаний о звездных скоплениях пополнится.
К ВОПРОСУ О ЖИТИИ СВ. БЕУНО ИЗ БИБЛИОТЕКИ АББАТСТВА СТРАТА ФЛОРИДА, УЭЛЬС, "Средние века"
Authors: Гусакова А.В.
Published: April 2021

Несмотря на обилие работ, посвященных истории христианства на Британских островах, современная медиевистика по-прежнему уделяет мало внимания особенностям становления и эволюции региональных британских церквей. Одной из черт средневековой церкви Уэльса, во многом определившей ее исторический путь, была «вовлеченность» святых в политические процессы, протекавшие как внутри валлийских королевств, так и в отношениях с соседями по острову – англичанами, а затем нормандцами. Зачастую актуальная политическая ситуация определяла вектор развития культа того или иного праведника: ярким примером является «появление» раннесредневекового святого Беуно на западе Уэльса, в Кередигионе. Наиболее ранний из сохранившихся экземпляров его жития происходит именно оттуда – из библиотеки аббатства Страта Флорида, хотя эта обитель и располагалась в отдалении от основной зоны распространения посвящений святому – территорий королевств Поуис и Гвинедд на севере и северо-востоке Уэльса. Проанализировав данные нарративных, юридических и археологических источников, мы предполагаем, что судьба текста была тесно связана с правящей династией королевства Дехейбарт, на территории которого располагалось аббатство Страта Флорида.
ВЕРА «ПРОСТЕЦОВ»: НРАВСТВЕННО-РЕЛИГИОЗНЫЙ ОБЛИК КРЕСТЬЯН В «КАНТИГАХ О СВЯТОЙ МАРИИ» АЛЬФОНСО X МУДРОГО, "Средние века"
Authors: Сота Х.
Published: April 2021

«Кантиги о святой Марии» состоят из 420 песнопений, созданных на галисийско-португальском языке под руководством Альфонсо X (1252–1284) в последние годы его правления. Данная статья посвящена особенностям репрезентации того идеала праведной жизни крестьян, который дается в этом произведении. Разные нравственные образы, описанные в чудесах, позволяют выделить основные характеристики праведности христиан, с точки зрения короля Альфонсо X. Автор приходит к выводу, что идеальный религиозно-нравственный облик крестьян в «Кантигах о святой Марии» формируется вокруг двух весьма различных аспектов: полноты и искренности их веры в Бога и Богородицу, с одной стороны, и опасности, которая подстерегает их при впадении в главный грех – алчность, – с другой.
ПЕТР АЛЬФОНСИ. ДИАЛОГ / изд. К. Карделье де Хартман, Д. Сенекович, Т. Циглер, пер. П. Штотц. Флоренция: СИСМEЛЬ; Эдицьони дель Галуццо, 2018. Т. 1: Критическое издание с переводом на нем. яз. XLI+428 с. (Средневековое тысячелетие; 116/1; Тексты; 30/1)., "
Authors: Долгополов В.Г.
Published: April 2021

В этой рецензии анализируется критическое издание «Диалога» Петра Альфонси, выпущенное в 2018 г. Рассматриваются история издания этого текста, метод издателей, отмечаются сильные и слабые стороны публикации.
АНАЛИЗ ВНУТРИВЕКОВОЙ ПРИРОДНОЙ ИЗМЕНЧИВОСТИ В ПРИАЗОВЬЕ И НА НИЖНЕМ ДОНУ: ПРИЧИНА МАЛОВОДЬЯ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Матишов Г.Г. , Дашкевич Л.В. , Титов В.В. , Кириллова Е.Э.
Published: April 2021

Изменения климата и водности в Приазовье и на Нижнем Дону, отмечаемые с XVIII века после начала инструментальных наблюдений над состоянием окружающей среды и подкрепляемые более древними историческими источниками, подтверждают известные закономерности циклического характера этих трансформаций. Осуществляемые Южным научным центром Российской академии наук комплексные исследования колонок донных отложений, кернов из верхних горизонтов береговых кос позволяют с большой степенью детальности реконструировать гидродинамические и климатические трансформации в Приазовье на протяжении позднего голоцена. Выявлены внутривековые изменения климата и водности в Приазовье по гидрометеорологическим данным (1884–2020 гг.), которые подразделяются на три периода: холодный (многоводный; 1884–1942 гг.), переходный (1942–1985 гг.) и теплый (маловодный; 1986–2020 гг.). Отсутствие паводкового дренажа и маловодье привели в последнее время к заилению многочисленных проток и гирл дельты Дона. После зарегулирования стока реки (начиная с 1952 г.) скорость осадконакопления в некоторых протоках дельты и авандельты достигла 10–30 мм/год, что значительно выше по сравнению со скоростью накопления новоазовских отложений на шельфе Азовского моря (0,2–2,0 мм/год). Анализ наблюдаемых закономерностей позволяет предполагать, что в ближайшие два десятилетия можно ожидать наступления следующего переходного этапа с резкими межгодовыми колебаниями температур, с чередованием теплых и суровых зим.
ВЛИЯНИЕ МНОГОЛЕТНЕЙ ДИНАМИКИ АТМОСФЕРНЫХ ОСАДКОВ НА ГЕНЕЗИС СТЕПНЫХ И СУХОСТЕПНЫХ ПОЧВ РОСТОВСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Минаева Е.Н. , Безуглова О.С. , Морозов И.В.
Published: April 2021

С учетом почвенного и агроклиматического районирования даны сравнительные характеристики распределения глубин промачивания почв Ростовской области атмосферными осадками, проанализировано их влияние на глубину залегания карбонатных новообразований. Объектами исследования были все зональные типы почв, распространенные на территории Ростовской области: черноземы обыкновенные карбонатные, черноземы южные, темно-каштановые, каштановые и светло-каштановые почвы. Анализ частоты встречаемости наиболее распространенной глубины промачивания проводили в пределах различных объектов районирования: агроклиматические районы, климатические подрайоны, почвенные районы. Для определения средней многолетней глубины промачивания профиля исследуемых почв и расчета частоты встречаемости наиболее распространенной глубины промачивания за 33-летний период использовали открытые источники информации. Проведена интерполяция глубин промачивания по методу обратно взвешенных расстояний с использованием программного обеспечения ArcMap 10.4.1. Гидротермические условия формирования почв определяют среднюю многолетнюю глубину промачивания, которая в пределах Ростовской области уменьшается в направлении с запада на восток, коррелируя с глубинами появления миграционных форм карбонатов и формирования горизонта белоглазки. Этот показатель свидетельствует о четких географических закономерностях: наибольшая глубина промачивания характерна для почв юго-западной части Ростовской области и приурочена к приморским районам региона – Северному Приазовью. Почвы восточных территорий области характеризуются меньшей глубиной промачивания, и чем южнее находятся, тем этот показатель меньше. Анализ распределения глубин промачивания с учетом почвенного районирования дает более подробную картину, что позволяет отследить динамику процессов миграции карбонатов в зависимости от влагообеспеченности и почвенных условий.
МОНИТОРИНГ СОЦИАЛЬНО-ЭКОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ УСЛОВИЙ КАК МЕХАНИЗМ ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ БЕЗОПАСНОСТИ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Епринцев С.А. , Клепиков О.В. , Шекоян С.В.
Published: April 2021

Здоровье населения современных городов является главенствующим фактором экологической безопасности и устойчивого развития территорий. На него оказывает воздействие множество условий. При этом, по данным Всемирной организации здравоохранения, с каждым годом возрастает роль социальных и экологических факторов в формировании заболеваемости по разным классам болезней. Целью проведенных исследований является оценка ряда санитарно-гигиенических и экологических условий российских городов (в разрезе регионов России) и их удельный вклад в формирование заболеваемости детского и взрослого населения по различным классам болезней. Репрезентативный массив социальных и экологических данных, а также показателей заболеваемости детского и взрослого населения по различным классам болезней собраны в государственной системе социально-гигиенического мониторинга. Результаты, полученные в ходе многолетних мониторинговых исследований, обобщены в среде ГИС «Экологические и социально-экономические условия городов российских городов». Анализ данных Федерального информационного фонда социально-гигиенического мониторинга ФБУЗ «Федеральный центр гигиены и эпидемиологии» Роспотребнадзора позволил установить, что в ряде городов наблюдается существенное превышение предельно допустимых среднесуточных концентраций в атмосфере бенз(а)пирена, диоксида азота, пыли, формальдегида и других антропогенных поллютантов. Анализ удельного веса проб, превышающих гигиенические нормативы для питьевой воды системы централизованного хозяйственно-питьевого водоснабжения, за последние 5 лет позволил выявить, что в большинстве российских городов данный показатель находится в норме. При этом в ряде регионов наблюдаются существенные превышения ПДК железа, трихлорэтилена, марганца, бора и других загрязнителей. Анализ важнейших социальных условий показал существенную дифференциацию территории Российской Федерации по факторам, определяющим безопасность населения. Проведенный корреляционный анализ выявил наличие средних и сильных зависимостей между социально-экологическими факторами и заболеваемостью населения по различным классам болезней.
Generation and characterization of a high‐affinity chimeric anti‐OX40 antibody with potent antitumor activity
Authors: Yang Yongli , Chai Xiaojuan , Xin Wenfang , Wang Dongxu , Dai Chaohui , Qian Feng , Yang Teddy
Published: April 2021

OX40 is a costimulatory molecule that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily. OX40 agonist‐based combinations are emerging as promising candidates for novel cancer immunotherapy. Clinical trials have shown that OX40 agonist antibodies could lead to better results in cancer patients. Using a hybridoma platform and three different types of immunization strategies, namely recombinant protein, DNA, and overexpressing cells, we identified a chimeric anti‐OX40 antibody (mAb035‐hIgG1 from DNA immunization) that shows excellent binding specificity, and slightly stronger activation of human memory CD4+ T cells and similar potent antitumor activity compared with BMS 986178, an anti‐OX40 antibody currently being evaluated for the treatment of solid tumors. This paper further systematically investigates the antigen‐specific immune response, the number of binders, epitope bins, and functional activities of antibodies among different immunization strategies. Interestingly, we found that different immunization strategies affect the biological activity of monoclonal antibodies.
Porphyromonas gingivalis enhances pneumococcal adhesion to human alveolar epithelial cells by increasing expression of host platelet‐activating factor receptor
Authors: Kamio Noriaki , Hayata Mayumi , Tamura Muneaki , Tanaka Hajime , Imai Kenichi
Published: April 2021

Streptococcus pneumoniae causes pneumonia by infecting the alveolar epithelium via binding to host receptors, such as the platelet‐activating factor receptor (PAFR). Although chronic periodontitis has been identified as a pneumonia risk factor, how periodontopathic bacteria cause pneumonia is not known. We found that S. pneumoniae adhered to PAFR expressed on A549 human alveolar epithelial cells stimulated by Porphyromonas gingivalis culture supernatant, and this was abrogated by a PAFR‐specific inhibitor. Among the major virulence factors of P. gingivalis [lipopolysaccharide (LPS), fimbriae and gingipains (Rgps and Kgp)], PAFR expression and pneumococcal adhesion were executed in an Rgp‐dependent manner. LPS and fimbriae did not induce PAFR expression. Hence, our findings suggest that P. gingivalis enhances pneumococcal adhesion to human alveoli by inducing PAFR expression and that gingipains are responsible for this.
MIB1 upregulates IQGAP1 and promotes pancreatic cancer progression by inducing ST7 degradation
Authors: Zhang Bin , Cheng Xiang , Zhan Sudong , Jin Xin , Liu Tao
Published: April 2021

Despite recent progress in cancer treatment, the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer still remains poor. Pancreatic tumors are reported to display high molecular heterogeneity. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying pancreatic cancer progression is essential for improving patient treatment and survival. The overexpression of E3 ubiquitin ligase mind bomb 1 (MIB1) was previously described in pancreatic cancer cells, where it enhanced tumor cell proliferation. However, the role of MIB1 in pancreatic cancer progression remains elusive. In the present study, we confirmed that MIB1 expression is elevated in pancreatic cancer tissues and that high levels of MIB associate with unfavorable prognosis. Overexpression of MIB1 enhanced proliferation and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. We further investigated the molecular mechanisms downstream of MIB1 and observed for the first time that MIB1 targets suppressor of tumorigenicity 7 protein (ST7), previously described as suppressor of tumorigenicity, for proteasomal degradation. Furthermore, we found that ST7 suppressed tumor growth by downregulating IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) in pancreatic tumor cells. Thus, these data show that MIB1 promotes pancreatic cancer progression by inducing ST7 degradation followed by downregulation of IQGAP1 in pancreatic cancer cells. In conclusion, our research shows that the MIB1/ST7/IQGAP1 axis is essential for pancreatic cancer progression, and MIB1 inhibition may serve as a novel therapeutic strategy in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Anthropocene, the plastic age and future perspectives
Authors: Porta Raffaele
Published: April 2021

The issue of plastic waste is one of the main topics on the international societal and political agenda since ever‐increasing growth in the quantity of plastic materials produced has gone beyond the ability to manage them effectively at their end‐of‐life. Mostly pushed by social campaigns, an ever‐increasing number of initiatives have been taken by different institutions to reduce the huge amount of plastic waste: first of all, specific legal regulations have been introduced, both to realize effective systems of plastic collection, reuse and recycling, and to outlaw the use of unnecessary disposable one‐use items. However, due to the indisputable advantages derived from the use of such a material, every action of decision makers to limit the production or use of plastics is unavoidably affected by economic evaluations, as well as by the deficiency or drawbacks of alternative materials, rather than by environmental reasons. In the three reviews in this Special ‘In the Limelight’ section, Oliver Bajt, Paola Fabbri et al. and Frederic Debeaufort – invited speakers at the Special Session on Science & Society, entitled ‘Plastics: revolution, pollution and substitution’, of the 45th FEBS Congress to be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on 3–8 July 2021 – describe in detail the consequences of plastic pollution (Bajt, 2021, FEBS Open Bio 11, 954‐966), the complex transition to bioplastics (Degli Esposti et al., 2021, FEBS Open Bio 11, 967‐983) and the possibility to obtain these innovative biodegradable materials from food and marine waste (Debeaufort 2021, FEBS Open Bio 11, 984‐998), respectively. This introductory commentary highlights that, in the frame of the bioeconomy paradigm, not only multidisciplinary but also inter‐ and transdisciplinary research with integrated and multifaceted approaches are needed to produce novel eco‐friendly materials with features similar to those of traditional plastics, as well as with acceptable economic and environmental impact.
Adaptive constraint control for flexible manipulator systems modeled by partial differential equations with dead‐zone input
Authors: Zhang Xin‐Yu , Tang Li , Liu Yan‐Jun
Published: April 2021

In this article, based on partial differential equations (PDEs), the flexible manipulator system with both dead‐zone input and state constraints is studied. The dynamic model of the flexible manipulator system is described by PDEs. The parameters of the dead‐zone input are unknown, and the state constraint problem is also considered. An adaptive approach is proposed to offset the effects caused by dead‐zone input. Thus, to guarantee that all states remain within their respective constraint regions, the boundary control law based on the barrier Lyapunov function is given, and an adaptive controller is designed. According to the Lyapunov analysis method, the control method is given to ensure that all signals of the closed‐loop system are bounded and all states satisfy the constraint conditions. Finally, simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed control method in this article.
Polarization‐Resolved Broadband MoS2/Black Phosphorus/MoS2 Optoelectronic Memory with Ultralong Retention Time and Ultrahigh Switching Ratio
Authors: Liu Chang , Zou Xuming , Wu Min‐Ci , Wang Yang , Lv Yawei , Duan Xinpei , Zhang Sen , Liu Xingqiang , Wu Wen‐Wei , Hu Weida , Fan Zhiyong , Liao Lei
Published: April 2021

The rapidly emerging requirement for device miniaturization and structural flexibility make 2D semiconductors and their van der Waals (vdWs) heterostructures extremely attractive for nonvolatile optoelectronic memory (NOM) applications. Although several concepts for 2D NOM have been demonstrated, multi‐heterojunction devices capable of further improving storage performance have received little attention. This work reports a concept for MoS2/black phosphorus (BP)/MoS2 multi‐heterojunction NOM with artificial trap sites through the BP oxidation, in which the trapped holes at BP/POx interface intrigue a persistent photoconductivity that hardly recovers within the experimental time scales (exceeding 104 s). As a result of the interfacial trap‐controlled charge injection, the device exhibits excellent photoresponsive memory characteristics, including a record high detectivity of ≈1.2 × 1016 Jones, a large light‐to‐dark switching ratio of ≈1.5 × 107, an ultralow off‐state current of ≈1.2 pA, and an outstanding multi‐bit storage capacity (11 storage states, 546 nC state–1). In addition, the middle BP layer in the multi‐heterojunction enables broadband spectrum distinction (375–1064 nm), together with a high polarization ratio of 8.4. The obtained results represent the significant step toward the high‐density integration of optoelectronic memories with 2D vdWs heterostructures.
Exploiting Mechanical Instabilities in Soft Robotics: Control, Sensing, and Actuation
Authors: Pal Aniket , Restrepo Vanessa , Goswami Debkalpa , Martinez Ramses V.
Published: April 2021

The rapidly expanding field of soft robotics has provided multiple examples of how entirely soft machines and actuators can outperform conventional rigid robots in terms of adaptability, maneuverability, and safety. Unfortunately, the soft and flexible materials used in their construction impose intrinsic limitations on soft robots, such as low actuation speeds and low output forces. Nature offers multiple examples where highly flexible organisms exploit mechanical instabilities to store and rapidly release energy. Guided by these examples, researchers have recently developed a variety of strategies to overcome speed and power limitations in soft robotics using mechanical instabilities. These mechanical instabilities provide, through rapid transitions from structurally stable states, a new route to achieve high output power amplification and attain impressive actuation speeds. Here, an overview of the literature related to the development of soft robots and actuators that exploit mechanical instabilities to expand their actuation speed, output power, and functionality is presented. Additionally, strategies using structural phase transitions to address current challenges in the area of soft robotic control, sensing, and actuation are discussed. Approaches using instabilities to create entirely soft logic modules to imbue soft robots with material intelligence and distributed computational capabilities are also reviewed.
High‐Throughput Discovery of Ni(IN)2for Ethane/Ethylene Separation
Authors: Kang Minjung , Yoon Sunghyun , Ga Seongbin , Kang Dong Won , Han Seungyun , Choe Jong Hyeak , Kim Hyojin , Kim Dae Won , Chung Yongchul G. , Hong Chang Seop
Published: April 2021

Although ethylene (C2H4) is one of the most critical chemicals used as a feedstock in artificial plastic chemistry fields, it is challenging to obtain high‐purity C2H4gas without any trace ethane (C2H6) by the oil cracking process. Adsorptive separation using C2H6‐selective adsorbents is beneficial because it directly produces high‐purity C2H4in a single step. Herein,Ni(IN)2(HIN = isonicotinic acid) is computationally discovered as a promising adsorbent with the assistance of the multiscale high‐throughput computational screening workflow and Computation‐Ready, Experimental (CoRE) metal–organic framework (MOF) 2019 database.Ni(IN)2is subsequently synthesized and tested to show the ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST) selectivity of 2.45 at 1 bar for a C2H6/C2H4mixture (1:15), which is one of the top‐performing selectivity values reported for C2H6‐selective MOFs as well as excellent recyclability, suggesting that this material is a promising C2H6‐selective adsorbent. Process‐level simulation results based on experimental isotherms demonstrate that the material is one of the top materials reported to date for ethane/ethylene separation under the conditions considered in this work.
The revised Approved Instructional Resources score: An improved quality evaluation tool for online educational resources
Authors: Grock Andrew , Jordan Jaime , Zaver Fareen , Colmers‐Gray Isabelle N. , Krishnan Keeth , Chan Teresa , Thoma Brent
Published: April 2021

Background

Free Open‐Access Medical education (FOAM) use among residents continues to rise. However, it often lacks quality assurance processes and residents receive little guidance on quality assessment. The Academic Life in Emergency Medicine Approved Instructional Resources tool (AAT) was created for FOAM appraisal by and for expert educators and has demonstrated validity in this context. It has yet to be evaluated in other populations.

Objectives

We assessed the AAT’s usability in a diverse population of practicing emergency medicine (EM) physicians, residents, and medical students; solicited feedback; and developed a revised tool.

Methods

As part of the Medical Education Translational Resources: Impact and Quality (METRIQ) study, we recruited medical students, EM residents, and EM attendings to evaluate five FOAM posts with the AAT and provide quantitative and qualitative feedback via an online survey. Two independent analysts performed a qualitative thematic analysis with discrepancies resolved through discussion and negotiated consensus. This analysis informed development of an initial revised AAT, which was then further refined after pilot testing among the author group. The final tool was reassessed for reliability.

Results

Of 330 recruited international participants, 309 completed all ratings. The Best Evidence in Emergency Medicine (BEEM) score was the component most frequently reported as difficult to use. Several themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: for ease of use—understandable, logically structured, concise, and aligned with educational value. Limitations include deviation from questionnaire best practices, validity concerns, and challenges assessing evidence‐based medicine. Themes supporting its use include evaluative utility and usability. The author group pilot tested the initial revised AAT, revealing a total score average measure intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of moderate reliability (ICC = 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0 to 0.962). The final AAT’s average measure ICC was 0.88 (95% CI = 0.77 to 0.95).

Conclusions

We developed the final revised AAT from usability feedback. The new score has significantly increased usability, but will need to be reassessed for reliability in a broad population.
Effects of ambient climate and three warming treatments on fruit production in an alpine, subarctic meadow community
Authors: Alatalo Juha M. , Jägerbrand Annika K. , Dai Junhu , Mollazehi Mohammad D. , Abdel‐Salam Abdel‐Salam G. , Pandey Rajiv , Molau Ulf
Published: April 2021

Premise

Climate change is having major impacts on alpine and arctic regions, and inter‐annual variations in temperature are likely to increase. How increased climate variability will impact plant reproduction is unclear.

Methods

In a 4‐year study on fruit production by an alpine plant community in northern Sweden, we applied three warming regimes: (1) a static level of warming with open‐top chambers (OTC), (2) press warming, a yearly stepwise increase in warming, and (3) pulse warming, a single‐year pulse event of higher warming. We analyzed the relationship between fruit production and monthly temperatures during the budding period, fruiting period, and whole fruit production period and the effect of winter and summer precipitation on fruit production.

Results

Year and treatment had a significant effect on total fruit production by evergreen shrubs, Cassiope tetragona, and Dryas octopetala, with large variations between treatments and years. Year, but not treatment, had a significant effect on deciduous shrubs and graminoids, both of which increased fruit production over the 4 years, while forbs were negatively affected by the press warming, but not by year. Fruit production was influenced by ambient temperature during the previous‐year budding period, current‐year fruiting period, and whole fruit production period. Minimum and average temperatures were more important than maximum temperature. In general, fruit production was negatively correlated with increased precipitation.

Conclusions

These results indicate that predicted increased climate variability and increased precipitation due to climate change may affect plant reproductive output and long‐term community dynamics in alpine meadow communities.
Two‐step Conformational Control of a Dibenzo Diazacyclooctane Derivative by Stepwise Protonation
Authors: Ishiwari Fumitaka , Miyake Sayuri , Inoue Keiki , Hirose Keiji , Fukushima Takanori , Saeki Akinori
Published: April 2021

The conformational control of a dibenzo‐1,5‐diazacyclooctane (DACO) derivative with tertiary and secondary amino groups by stepwise protonation is investigated by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis, computational simulation, and variable temperature NMR measurements. The DACO derivative undergoes two‐step protonation, to afford bent‐shape monoprotonated and diprotonated species, whose conformations are different from each other. The monoprotonated form is characterized by a Tröger's‐base‐like proton‐bridged pseudo bicyclic structure, while the diprotonated form features a deformed boat‐shape eight membered ring structure. The degree of bending and conformational rigidity of the DACO skeleton become higher as the degree of the protonation is increased. Such a multistep conformational control of the DACO derivative would be useful for developing new stimuli‐responsive supramolecular systems that exhibit a multistep change in properties.
Early prevention of cognitive impairment in the community population: The Beijing Aging Brain Rejuvenation Initiative
Authors: Yang Caishui , Li Xin , Zhang Junying , Chen Yaojing , Li He , Wei Dongfeng , Lu Peng , Liang Ying , Liu Zhen , Shu Ni , Wang Fang , Guan Qing , Tao Wuhai , Wang Qingshan , Jia Jianjun , Ai Lin , Cui Ruixue , Wang Yanping , Peng Dantao , Zhang Wei , Chen Kewei , Wang Xiaomin , Zhao Jizong , Wang Yongyan , Dong Qi , Wang Jun , Zhang Zhanjun ,   Beijing Aging Brain Rejuvenation Initiative workgroup
Published: April 2021

Facing considerable challenges associated with aging and dementia, China urgently needs an evidence‐based health‐care system for prevention and management of dementia. The Beijing Aging Brain Rejuvenation Initiative (BABRI) is a community‐based cohort study initiated in 2008 that focuses on asymptomatic stages of dementia, aims to develop community‐based prevention strategies for cognitive impairment, and provides a platform for scientific research and clinical trials. Thus far, BABRI has recruited 10,255 participants (aged 50 and over, 60.3% female), 2021 of whom have been followed up at least once at a 2‐ or 3‐year interval. This article presents aims and study design of BABRI; summarizes preliminary behavioral and neuroimaging findings on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and results of clinical trials on MCI; and discusses issues concerning early prevention in community, MCI diagnosis methods, and applications of database of aging and dementia. BABRI is proposed to build a systematic framework on brain health in old age.
Clinical predictors of gangrenous appendicitis: elevated total bilirubin level and computed tomography scan findings
Authors: Naya Itsuki , Adachi Kensuke , Takeuchi Koichi , Ariyama Yuno , Hosaka Akihiro , Imamura Kazuhiro , Morita Yasuhiro , Matsubara Shigeki , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Horie Hisanaga
Published: April 2021

Aim

Patients with gangrenous appendicitis usually require emergency surgery. Preoperative diagnosis of gangrenous appendicitis is clinically important but not always straightforward. We undertook this study to identify preoperative predictors of gangrenous appendicitis.

Methods

This was a single‐center case–control study. We identified 162 patients who underwent appendectomy between September 2011 and August 2014 after the diagnosis of acute appendicitis was established. We identified laboratory parameters and computed tomography (CT) scan findings predictive of histologically or surgically diagnosed gangrenous appendicitis by univariable and multivariable analyses.

Results

Of 146 study patients, gangrenous appendicitis was confirmed in 102. Univariable analysis showed that two laboratory factors (C‐reactive protein []and total bilirubin [T‐Bil]) and three CT scan findings were significant predictors for gangrenous appendicitis. Multivariable analysis showed that T‐Bil and two CT scan findings (appendicolith and fat stranding around the appendix) were independent predictors. The combination of “T‐Bil ≥ 1.0 mg/dL or appendicolith” was able to predict gangrenous appendicitis with a sensitivity of 90.5%, positive predictive value of 80.4%, and accuracy of 77.8%. The combination of “T‐Bil ≥ 1.0 mg/dL or fat stranding around the appendix” was able to predict gangrenous appendicitis with a sensitivity of 98.9%, positive predictive value of 76.4%, and accuracy of 71.9%.

Conclusion

These combinations of laboratory and CT scan findings could be valuable as predictors of gangrenous appendicitis.
Rapid synthesis of zeolite P from potassic rocks by gel‐like‐solid phase method
Authors: Yang Kai , Li Yun , Guo Hongfei , Liu Xiuwu , Chen Xueqing , Cao Jilin
Published: April 2021

A facile, rapid, and energy‐saving gel‐like‐solid method was applied to prepare zeolites from natural minerals. Using potassic rocks (PRs) activated by the alkali fusion decomposition method together with silica‐alumina xerogel as silicon‐ and aluminum‐species, zeolite P has been successfully synthesized via gel‐like‐solid phase method. The effects of crystallization time (t), crystallization temperature (T), m (PRs)/m (xerogel) ratios, and n(H2O)/n (SiO2) ratios on the crystallinity and morphology of zeolite P were investigated. The optimal synthesis conditions were m (PRs)/m (xerogel) of 0.185, n(H2O)/n (SiO2) of 28.12, crystallization t of 3 h, and crystallization T of 140°C. The synthesized zeolite P featuring high crystallinity possessed spherical morphology aggregated by small grains and was applied in the ion exchange for Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. The maximum Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions exchange capacities of zeolite P could reach 415 mgCaCO3·g−1 and 162 mgMgCO3·g−1, respectively. Compared with other published materials, the synthesized zeolite P exhibited satisfactory Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions exchange capacities. The above results demonstrated that the gel‐like‐solid phase method could shorten the crystallization t and enhance the crystallinity of zeolites synthesized from natural minerals and solid waste, showing a great potential in actual applications.
Synthesis and characterization of mesophase coke from medium–low‐temperature coal tar pitch modified by high‐pressure thermal polymerization
Authors: Lv Jun , Bai Haitao , Zhu Yaming , Hu Chaoshuai , Xu Yunliang , Lai Shiquan , Zhao Xuefei
Published: April 2021

Medium–low‐temperature coal tar pitch (MLP) is a by‐product of semi‐coke fabrication with a high content of carbon. However, the small amount of aromatic organic compounds in MLP makes prevents its practical use as a feedstock for the production of high‐quality artificial carbon materials (such as needle coke) via direct thermal conversion. To understand the effects of autogenous pressure thermal polymerization (APTP) on the microstructure of mesophase coke, we performed APTP at different reaction temperatures to produce MLP, which was further utilized as a starting material for the synthesis of mesophase coke. The microstructure of mesophase coke was studied by optical microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, the micro‐strength of the mesophase coke was examined. We concluded that the APTP treatment of MLP before direct carbonization of a liquid is an excellent method for the production of high‐quality mesophase coke.
Developing and Verifying a Water Service Line Inventory
Authors: Duffy Daniel T. , Pickering William J.
Published: April 2021

Key Takeaways

A complete and accurate water service line inventory goes beyond regulatory requirements when used in conjunction with a lead service line replacement program.

Absent accurate historical records, it's likely several sources of information will be needed to complete a lead service line inventory.

The inventory data must be maintained as a living document so they can be used to help respond if an exceedance occurs.
Improving Public Perceptions of Tap Water
Authors: Junker Matthew , Carpenter Adam T.
Published: April 2021

Key Takeaways

A 2020 AWWA survey explored the US public's perceptions of drinking water, sampling a range of demographics to get a comprehensive picture.

Overall confidence in tap water is positive, but the water sector must address some issues to increase public trust and understanding of water systems.

Communication is a powerful tool. A water utility in Pennsylvania took cues from other utilities to strengthen its customer outreach channels.
Study of tobacco‐derived proteins in paper coatings
Authors: Gutierrez Joseph N. , Agate Sachin , Venditti Richard A. , Pal Lokendra
Published: April 2021

Replacing synthetic polymers with renewable alternatives is a critical challenge for the packaging industry. This research investigated the use of leaf‐based proteins as a sustainable co‐binder in the coating formulations for paper‐based packaging and other applications. Protein isolates from tobacco leaf and alfalfa concentrates were characterized using the Pierce protein assay, Kjeldahl nitrogen, and gel electrophoresis. The proteins were tested as co‐binders in a typical latex‐based paper coating formulation. The rheology and water retention properties of the wet coating and the surface, optical, structural, and strength properties of coated papers were measured. The coating performance was affected by the purity, solubility, and molecular weight of the tobacco protein and exhibited a shear‐thinning behavior with lower water retention than soy protein. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy and time of flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy on the dried coating layer containing tobacco protein showed enhanced porosity (advantageous for package glueability) relative to the control latex coating. The tobacco protein offers adequate coverage and coating pigment distribution, indicating that this protein can be a suitable option in coatings for packaging applications.
Edge to edge repair using a MitraClip for severe tricuspid valve regurgitation after a Mustard operation
Authors: Iriart Xavier , Guérin Patrice , Jalal Zakaria , Thambo Jean‐Benoit
Published: April 2021

A 48‐year‐old who underwent a Mustard operation in 1972 followed by a second cardiac intervention in 1996 for pulmonary venous baffle enlargement and residual baffle leak closure, complicated by recurrent atrial flutter, was admitted to our institution for severe systemic atrio‐ventricular valve regurgitation (SAVVR) associated with severely impaired systemic right ventricular (RV) function. After careful preoperative anatomic assessment including three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) to define the clipping strategy and computed tomography to optimize the transvenous baffle puncture site, the intervention was performed under general anesthesia, fluoroscopic, and 3DTEE guidance. One XTR MitraClip was successfully implanted, achieving a significant reduction in regurgitation and immediate clinical improvement. The transbaffle puncture was closed using an 8 mm atrial septal defect (ASD) device without residual shunt or obstruction of the venous baffle. Post‐operative clinical evaluation showed immediate improvement in the NYHA functional class (from III to II), but the patient presented with recurrent flutter at 1 week after the procedure, which was successfully treated by catheter ablation with another transbaffle approach next to the ASD device. Clinical improvement was maintained at 1‐ and 6‐month follow‐up with significant reduction in SAVVR, reduced systemic RV volumes and improved RV ejection fraction. This case demonstrates the feasibility of percutaneous treatment of systemic SAVV in patients with systemic RV after atrial redirection.
Selectivity Switch in the Aerobic 1,2‐Propandiol Oxidation Catalyzed by Diamine‐Stabilized Palladium Nanoparticles
Authors: Oberhauser Werner , Evangelisti Claudio , Capozzoli Laura , Manca Gabriele , Casaletto Maria Pia , Vizza Francesco
Published: April 2021

Palladium nanoparticles stabilized by a sterically demanding secondary diamine ligand have been synthesized by hydrogen reduction of a palladium acetate complex bearing the corresponding diimine ligand. The obtained nanoparticles were used to catalyze the aerobic oxidation of 1,2‐propandiol inn‐hexane, and after their heterogenization onto a high surface area carbon, in water. Inn‐hexane (2,4‐dimethyl‐1,3‐dioxolan‐2‐yl) methanol has been obtained as major product, whereas in water acetic acid with a selectivity of >85 % has been achieved. The selectivity switch observed was a clear induced by water. The robustness of diamine‐stabilized palladium nanoparticles under real aerobic oxidation conditions has been proved by recycling experiments, TEM measurements of the recovered catalysts and by comparison of its performance with that of palladium nanoparticles generated by the metal vapor synthesis technique and supported onto the same carbon in the absence of the stabilizing diamine ligand.