bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Neuroblastoma Network: An international multidisciplinary neuroblastoma tumor board for resource‐limited countries
Authors: Matthay Katherine K. , Hylton Jennifer , Penumarthy Neela , Khattab Mohammed , Soh Shui Yen , Nguyen Hoa Thi Kim , Alcasabas Ana Patricia , Fawzy Mohammed , Saab Raya , Khan Muhammad Saghir , Ghandour Khalil , Chantada Guillermo , Parikh Nehal S. , Faulkner Lawrence , Lam Catherine G. , Howard Scott C.
Published: January 2022

Background

Tumor boards are part of standard care of patients with complex cancers, but appropriate multidisciplinary expertise and infrastructure are often not available in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) for pediatric cancers, such as neuroblastoma. Our goal was to review results of a Global Neuroblastoma Network (GNN) tumor board accessible to LMIC.

Methods

De‐identified clinical cases presented via internet conference during a weekly GNN virtual tumor board from 2010 through 2020 were evaluated in a standardized format, including diagnostic imaging, pathology, therapy information, resource limitations, and questions for discussion. Information summarized included the presentations, a survey of the impact on care, and a resource questionnaire.

Results

Registered GNN participants included 575 individuals from 77 countries, with a median of 39 participants per session. Total 412 cases were presented from 32 countries, including 351 unique neuroblastoma patients, 52 follow‐up cases, and nine non‐neuroblastoma diagnoses. Twenty‐eight educational sessions were presented. Limited critical resources for diagnostics and staging of cases included MYCN analysis (54.7%), metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scans (38.7%), and International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification (49%). Therapies were also limited, with markedly decreased use of radiation and autologous stem cell transplant for high‐risk cases, and no availability of anti‐GD2 antibody in LMIC. Limited sampling with a post‐presentation survey showed that 100% found the GNN helpful, and 70% altered the care plan based on the discussion.

Conclusion

This report shows the utility of an international tumor board for LMIC focused on a challenging solid tumor where local expertise may be limited, with international multidisciplinary expert participation and educational sessions.
Comparison of mechanical properties and thermal stability of graphene‐based materials and halloysite nanotubes reinforced maleated polymer compatibilized polypropylene nanocomposites
Authors: Ezenkwa Obinna Emmanuel , Hassan Azman , Samsudin Sani Amril
Published: January 2022

This study compares the reinforcing effects of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP), graphene oxide (GO), and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) in polypropylene (PP) based nanocomposites with PP‐g‐maleic anhydride (MAPP) as compatibilizer. PP/GNP/MAPP, PP/GO/MAPP, and PP/HNTs/MAPP nanocomposites were fabricated at nanofillers contents 1, 2, 3, 4 parts per hundred (phr) and MAPP at 4 phr, to PP matrix, using melt extrusion and injection molding techniques. Results show that at nanofillers optimum content, PP/GNP3/MAPP nanocomposite increased in tensile strength and modulus by 8% and 96%, respectively, compared to pure PP (p ˂ 0.05). PP/GNP3/MAPP nanocomposite also increased in tensile strength and modulus by 2% and 4% respectively, compared to PP/GO2/MAPP (p ˂ 0.05) and 2% and 15% compared to PP/HNTs2/MAPP (p ˂ 0.05) nanocomposites. For impact strength performance, PP/GNP2/MAPP nanocomposite increased in impact strength (notched) by 104% compared to pure PP (p ˂ 0.05). Also, PP/GNP2/MAPP nanocomposite increased in impact strength by 23% compared to PP/GO1/MAPP (p ˂ 0.05) and 13% compared to PP/HNTs1/MAPP (p ˂ 0.05), nanocomposites. In flexural properties, PP/GO4/MAPP nanocomposite increased in flexural strength and modulus by 24% and 28%, respectively, compared to pure PP (p ˂ 0.05). Also, PP/GO4/MAPP nanocomposite increased in flexural strength and modulus by 4% and 9%, respectively, compared to PP/GNP2/MAPP nanocomposite, and 9% and 21% respectively compared to PP/HNTs2/MAPP nanocomposite. PP/GNP2/MAPP nanocomposite increased in thermal stability by 12°C compared to pure PP; 29°C compared to PP/GO2/MAPP; and 15°C compared to PP/HNTs2/MAPP nanocomposites. Overall, PP/GNP/MAPP nanocomposite exhibited superior mechanical properties and thermal stability compared to PP/GO/MAPP and PP/HNTs/MAPP nanocomposites. PP/GO/MAPP was superior for bending properties while PP/HNTs/MAPP was best for ductility.
Enhancing mechanical, thermal property and flame retardancy of optical polythiourethane with self‐assembly phosphazene nanoparticles
Authors: Jia Yaya , Jin Junsu , Meng Hong
Published: January 2022

Polythiourethane (PTU) has attracted considerable attention in engineering building materials. Here, based on phosphazene nanoparticles (PZS‐1 and PZS‐2) prepared by water‐triggered and ultrasonic self‐assembly method, phosphazene/polythiourethane (PZS/PTU) composites with excellent mechanical strength, high flame retardancy and good transparency was obtained. Then, the comprehensive properties of both composites were evaluated, where PZS‐2 endowed PTU with better overall performance. Due to the good dispersibility of PZS and its strengthed interfacial interaction with PTU matrix, both PZS significantly enhanced mechanical and thermal property of PTU, where the tensile strength and glass transition temperature of PZS/PTU composites reached to 84.34 MPa and 59.94°C respectively. More importantly, compared to pure PTU, the values of peak heat release rate (HRR), total heat release rate (THR), smoke production rate (SPR), and total smoke production (TSP) of composites were decreased by 10.5%, 13.3%, 30.6% and 18.0%, respectively. The limiting oxygen index of composites was improved to 21.39% due to the catalytic carbonization of PZS, the expanded carbon layer and the incombustible gases released during combustion. Meanwhile, the PZS/PTU composite exhibited the high refractive index of 1.6580 and good transparency (not less than 85% at 500 nm). The PZS/PTU composite was promising candidates for optical flame retardant coatings and engineering building materials.
Congenital myotonic dystrophy: An overlooked diagnosis not amenable to detection by sequencing
Authors: Rogers Rosemary , Moyer Kelly , Moise Kenneth J.
Published: January 2022

Objective

To increase the clinical awareness of the need for genetic evaluation for congenital myotonic dystrophy (CDM1) in cases of fetal akinesia sequence and idiopathic polyhydramnios.

Methods

Retrospective case review.

Results

A 27 y.o. G1P0 with no significant family history presented for ultrasound at 25 weeks gestation. Notable findings included lack of extension of the fetal arms and legs with bilateral talipes consistent with fetal akinesia sequence. Polyhydramnios with an amniotic fluid index of 32.2 cm was also present. Amniotic fluid obtained by amniocentesis was sent for chromosomal microarray and a next generation sequencing fetal akinesia panel which both returned normal. The patient underwent serial amnioreductions for recurrent severe polyhydramnios with removal of a total of 9.3 L. Further amniotic fluid testing for CDM1 identified >200 repeats in one copy of the fetal DMPK gene, consistent with a diagnosis of CDM1. The patient was delivered at 35 weeks gestation and neonatal demise occurred on the second day of life.

Conclusion

Congenital myotonic dystrophy should be a consideration for cases of severe polyhydramnios identified by ultrasound. Myotonic dystrophy is detected using PCR and southern blot and is not typically included on next generation sequencing (NGS) panels that test for similar conditions. Clinicians should consider more specialized genetic testing than microarray and NGS in these cases.
Resiliency and academic engagement: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Yang Jiemei , Xu Jingyi , Zhang Hui
Published: January 2022

The present study examined whether general self‐efficacy (GSE) mediated the association between resiliency and academic engagement, and whether social support moderated the mediating process. Participants included 1549 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 16.71 years old, 629 boys). Using self‐reported questionnaires, our study found that, after controlling for youth age, sex, and family socioeconomic status, GSE partially mediated the positive relation between resiliency and academic engagement. Further, social support moderated the association between resiliency and GSE, as well as the association between resiliency and academic engagement. Findings underline the significance of identifying the mediating and moderating factors linking resiliency and academic engagement. Implications and future research directions were discussed.
Synthesis, Characterization and Derivatives of Iso‐Picramic Acid
Authors: Klapötke Thomas M. , Lechner Jasmin T. , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: January 2022

Comparing the sensitive explosives DDNP (2‐diazonium‐4,6‐dinitrophenolate) with iso‐DDNP (para‐DDNP, 4‐diazonium‐2,6‐dinitrophenolate), it seems obvious that with increasing symmetry in the molecule, the energetic parameters also increase. This work therefore investigates whether the same trend can be applied for the isomers picramic acid (2‐amino‐4,6‐dinitrophenol) and iso‐picramic acid (para picramic acid, 4‐amino‐2,6‐dinitrophenol). For this purpose, iso‐picramic acid was synthesized and compared with the properties of picramic acid. In addition, selected ionic and other energetic derivatives such as 2,6‐dinitro‐4‐(5H‐tetrazol‐1‐yl)phenol were synthesized. The compounds were extensively studied by XRD, IR, EA, DTA and TGA. Further, their sensitivities towards impact and friction were investigated and the energetic properties were computed using the EXPLO5 code.
The biological and physiological responses of Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say (Col. Chrysomelidae) to different potato cultivars
Authors: Golizadeh Mahdieh , Mehrkhou Fariba , Atlihan Remzi , Güz Nurper
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

The use of pest‐resistant or less susceptible plant varieties is of great importance for integrated pest management programs. This study was conducted to evaluate the resistance of seven potato cultivars to a major pest, namely the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), by measuring its bio‐physiological aspects.

RESULTS

The longest developmental time and the lowest survival rate of CPB were detected on cultivar ‘Manitou.’ Although the larvae fed voraciously, the food conversion efficiency was the lowest on this cultivar leading to the lowest relative growth rate. Furthermore, larvae reared on Manitou had the lowest total protease activity and specific activity values of cathepsin B compared to the larvae reared on other cultivars. Additionally, the cluster analysis showed that the Manitou cultivar was the least suitable (partially resistant) CPB. Moreover, the results indicated that the protein content was the lowest in the Manitou cultivar; conversely, this cultivar was rich in polyphenol and flavonoid compared to Agria and Santae cultivars.

CONCLUSION

The overall results in this study indicated that the Manitou cultivar might be a good candidate to be incorporated into integrated pest management programs. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Decline in fertility in Paris: An intraurban spatial analysis
Authors: Brée Sandra , Doignon Yoann
Published: January 2022

The decline in fertility has been the subject of much research, particularly on the countries that were the precursors of this historic decline. But, if research has focused on the mechanisms of the adoption of birth control, studies about the changes in fertility in cities are less frequent. To fill this gap, this article proposes to study Paris, the city where the lowest marital fertility levels were measured during the 19th century (Brée, 2017; 10.4000/lectures.22911). The objective of this paper is to understand the spread of this intensive birth control on an intraurban scale. This approach is original because there is almost no study that examines 19th century changes in fertility on an intraurban scale. We use spatial statistics and spatial panel modelling to consider both the incidence of birth control behaviour and the socio‐economic characteristics of the districts studied, and those of the neighbouring districts, to distinguish between adaptation and diffusion effects. These methods constitute another originality of the article insofar as this type of model remains very little used in historical demography. The results highlight important spatial disparities within Paris. We also show both the importance of the social composition on the level of fertility in the districts and the strong effect of the behaviours in the neighbouring districts in the fertility change.
Deposition and Characterization of Zn–Sn–O (ZSO) Thin Films with Novel Optical Properties
Authors: Xu Linhua , Luo Xiaoqiang , Qian Haisu , Zheng Gaige , Xian Fenglin , Su Jing
Published: January 2022

The ZnSnO film is fabricated using sol–gel process, and the change of its morphological feature, structure and optical properties with increasing heat‐treatment temperature is studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images display that the ZnSnO films consist of two different layers of component. The surface layer is crystalline zinc oxide (ZnO), and the bottom layer is amorphous Zn
x
Sn
y
O
z
ternary compound. When the ZnSnO film carries out a heat‐treatment at 350 and 400 °C, the thickness and grain morphology of the ZnO layer are hardly changed. However, some pyramid‐shaped grains appear on the film surface, when the temperature rises to 450 °C. These ZnSnO films exhibit interesting optical properties: they all have the luminescence features of ZnO and the bandgap width similar to tin oxide (SnO2). The changes in the size and shape of the ZnO grains in the surface layer lead to obvious changes in the optical properties: the ultraviolet emission of the ZnSnO films is greatly enhanced, and the transmittance is gradually increased. The ZnSnO film with a special structure, namely, a double‐layer including a highly crystalline ZnO layer and amorphous Zn
x
Sn
y
O
z
layer, has potential applications in optoelectronic devices.
Effects of multiple‐step cold plasma processing on banana (Musa sapientum) starch‐based films
Authors: Marenco‐Orozco Gerald A. , Rosa Morsyleide F. , Fernandes Fabiano A. N.
Published: January 2022

In recent years, films of biodegradable materials have been studied to determine and improve their physical properties, mechanical strength, and hydrophobicity. This research focused on the study of banana starch‐based films (Musa sapientum). The films were prepared using the casting method, and a 2k experimental design was conducted to evaluate the effects of cold plasma treatment on three steps of film production. Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma (excitation frequency of 400 Hz, voltage of 20 kV, and 15 min of processing time) was applied in three processing phases: on the starch granules, the filmogenic suspension, and the film. Plasma‐treated films presented better short‐range order structure degree (or crystalline/amorphous ratio) than untreated films. Significant differences were observed on the surface of the films, especially when the filmogenic suspension or the film were subjected to plasma treatment. Films produced with the treated starch granules and filmogenic suspension presented the lowest values of moisture (<9.5%) and solubility (<31.1%), while the films produced with DBD plasma‐treated starch granules and also subjected to plasma treatment presented the highest water contact angle (65.1°), the highest tensile strength (9.11 MPa), and good puncture resistance (0.33 MPa), resulting in the highest hydrophobicity and highest mechanical strength among the tested films. Research must be done to adapt these promising results and apply to other techniques and botanical sources.
Photocatalytic, phosphorus‐doped, anatase oxide layers applicable to titanium implant alloys
Authors: Hardman Caleb T. , Johnson Haden A. , Doukas Morgan , Pettit Chappel C. , Janorkar Amol V. , Williamson Randall Scott , Roach Michael D.
Published: January 2022

Titanium alloys provide excellent corrosion resistance and favorable mechanical properties well suited for a variety of biomaterial applications. The native oxide surface on titanium alloys has been shown to be less than ideal and surface modification is often needed. Previously, an optimized anodization process was shown to form a porous phosphorus‐enhanced anatase oxide layer on commercially pure Ti grade 4. The anodized layer was shown to improve osseointegration and to reduce bacteria attachment when photocatalytically activated with UVA preillumination. The primary objective of the present study was to create a similar phosphorus‐enhanced anatase oxide layer on series of titanium alloys including commercially pure Ti grade 4, Ti‐6Al‐7Nb, Ti‐6Al‐4V ELI, alpha + beta Ti‐15Mo, beta Ti‐15Mo, and Ti‐35Nb‐7Zr‐5Ta. Phosphorus‐enhanced anatase oxide layers were formed on each titanium substrate. Anatase formation was shown to generally increase with oxide thickness, except on substrate alloys containing niobium. Phosphorus uptake was shown to be dependent on the titanium alloy chemistry or microstructure. Anodized layers formed on beta‐structured titanium alloys revealed the lowest phosphorus uptake and the most nanosized surface porosity. A methylene blue degradation assay showed anodized layers on commercially pure Ti and both Ti‐15Mo alloys to exhibit the highest levels of photocatalytic activity. Given the range of mechanical properties available with the commercially pure Ti and Ti‐15Mo alloys, the results of this study indicate the benefits of phosphorus‐enhanced anatase oxide coatings may be applicable to a wide variety of biomaterial applications.
Sample size formula for a win ratio endpoint
Authors: Yu Ron Xiaolong , Ganju Jitendra
Published: January 2022

The win ratio composite endpoint, which organizes the components of the composite hierarchically, is becoming popular in late‐stage clinical trials. The method involves comparing data in a pair‐wise manner starting with the endpoint highest in priority (eg, cardiovascular death). If the comparison is a tie, the endpoint next highest in priority (eg, hospitalizations for heart failure) is compared, and so on. Its sample size is usually calculated through complex simulations because there does not exist in the literature a simple sample size formula. This article provides a formula that depends on the probability that a randomly selected patient from one group does better than a randomly selected patient from another group, and on the probability of a tie. We compare the published 95% confidence intervals, which require patient‐level data, with that calculated from the formula, requiring only summary‐level data, for 17 composite or single win ratio endpoints. The two sets of results are similar. Simulations show the sample size formula performs well. The formula provides important insights. It shows when adding an endpoint to the hierarchy can increase power even if the added endpoint has low power by itself. It provides relevant information to modify an on‐going blinded trial if necessary. The formula allows a non‐specialist to quickly determine the size of the trial with a win ratio endpoint whose use is expected to increase over time.
Mesostructured Zn/ZSM‐5 Zeolite as Catalyst for Furan Deoxygenation,
Authors: Biriaei Rouholamin , Madadi Sara , Kaliaguine Serge
Published: January 2022

The furan conversion into aromatics over zinc promoted ZSM‐5 zeolites was studied in a continuous‐flow fixed‐bed reactor. Two series of microporous and mesoporous catalysts were prepared at different zinc loadings of 2 and 5 wt.%. It was intended to optimize the overall aromatics production and control coke accumulation over novel synthesized mesoporous ZSM‐5 catalyst, in a continuous flow reactor. The catalysts were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption/desorption, ammonia temperature programmed desorption (TPD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The zinc loaded mesoporous materials exhibit an XRD pattern that matches with the ZSM‐5 XRD reference pattern. No extra peaks were observed in the XRD results indicating the high dispersion of zinc species. The initial furan conversion rate was higher over the microporous catalysts, and increased upon increasing metal loading, however contrary to the mesoporous samples, the microporous ones deactivated rapidly over 2 hours of time on‐stream. The results indicated that around 40 % of carbon in the fed furan, was recovered in aromatics when the new mesostructured zeolite catalyst was used, whereas this could be further increased to 50 % by the addition of zinc in the catalyst, benzene being the major product.
Catalytic Hydrogenation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to Hexanetriol
Authors: Zhang Chi , Li Yueju , Lv Xuechuan , Gao Xiaohan , Duan Ying , Sui Dong , Yang Yanliang
Published: January 2022

The catalytic conversion of furan derivatives, furfural and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), to valuable chemicals is of great importance due to the increase in carbon emissions and decrease in fossil fuels. In this manuscript, 1,2,5‐hexanetriol was transformed to HMF through a two steps procedure. The HMF was first hydrogenated to 1‐hydroxyhexane‐2,5‐dione (HHD). The reaction scale could be enlarged from 1 mmol to 50 mmol of the reactant with a similar yield of HHD, and the purity of HHD was over 95 % after a simple extraction. Then the HHD was hydrogenated to 1,2,5‐hexanetriol on Ru/C at very mild reaction conditions. The parameters of pressure, solvent, the concentration of HHD, reaction time and temperature on the hydrogenation of HHD were investigated to find the optimal reaction conditions. The 1,2,5‐hexanetriol could be obtained from HMF in a one‐pot reaction by removing the Pd/C and adding Ru/C after the HMF hydrogenation step. The fresh and used Pd/C and Ru/C were characterized by XRD, TEM, XPS, and the Ru/C was further characterized by EDS mappings. The characterization showed partial agglomeration of Pd occurred after the Pd/C was used. The Ru/C had a narrow Ru distribution and was stable under the reaction conditions. The Ru/C could be used at least 5 times. This manuscript showed an easy route for the production of valuable chemicals from renewable biomass furan derives.
Synthesis, Antibacterial Activity, and Molecular Docking Study of Bispyrazole‐Based Derivatives as Potential Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Ali Salman Ghazwan , S. Zinad Dhafer , Mahal Ahmed , Rizki Fadhil Pratama Mohammad , Duan Meiato , Alkhouri Anas , Alamiery Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Development of novel antibacterial agents is one of most important aims in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. A new series of bispyrazole derivatives were synthesized with moderate to excellent yields ranging from 68 to 83 %. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed using NMR, GC, IR techniques. The prepared derivatives were screened against Gram‐positive bacteria (S. aureus and B. subtilis) and Gram‐negative bacteria (E. coli and P. aeruginosa). All of the new compounds exhibited good to moderate antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria compared to trimethoprim. The bispyrazole bearing (triflouromethyl)benzene 8 d showed significant antibacterial inhibition against all bacteria tested and was found to be more active than trimethoprim in term of inhibition zone. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) showed that the bispyrazoles bearing (methylsulfonyl)benzene 8 c and 4‐chlorobenzen 8 e showed potent inhibition activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis while The bispyrazole bearing (triflouromethyl)benzene 8 d displayed strong inhibitory activity against S. aureus, B. subtilis, E. coli and P. aeruginosa compared to trimethoprim. Molecular docking was investigated for the active compounds and showed promising lead‐like characters. These compounds could be employed as prospective lead compounds for the synthesis of novel antibacterial agents with highly potency.
Selective Catalytic Oxidation of Cyclopentene to Glutaraldehyde over Amorphous Nb2O5/AC Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Mai Junhui , Chen Jiazhi , Wang Xi , Mai Yuliang
Published: January 2022

Activated carbon supported Nb2O5catalysts were prepared and applied in the selective catalytic oxidation of cyclopentene to glutaraldehyde with 30 % H2O2as the oxidant. The 12 %Nb2O5/AC catalysts were characterized by the X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy; the results indicated Nb2O5particles are of amorphous character. The effects of reaction conditions on the selective catalytic oxidation of cyclopentene were investigated. The conversion of cyclopentene was 84.3 % and the selectivity to glutaraldehyde was up to 75.3 % under the optimized reaction conditions. The radicals trapping experiments combined with the ATR infrared spectra characterization demonstrated that the reactive oxygen species for the catalytic oxidation of cyclopentene to glutaraldehyde over the Nb2O5/AC catalyst are superoxide radical and Nb(OO) species. The adsorbed organic species on the catalyst surface could lead to deactivation of the catalyst.
Synthesis and Properties of Phthalonitrile Polymer with a Novel Piperazine Structural Curing Agent
Authors: Li Jian , Wu Minjie , Rong Jianxin , Zhang Qian , Yu Xiaoyan , Zhang Qingxin
Published: January 2022

A novel autocatalytic phthalonitrile (PN) monomer containing piperazine structure, namely 4‐[1‐(4‐aminophenyl)‐4‐(4‐phenyl)piperazine‐oxy]phthalonitrile (APPN), is synthesized from the nucleophilic substitution reaction of 1‐(4‐Aminophenyl)‐4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)piperazine and 4‐nitrophthalonitrile. The structure of the APPN monomer is characterized by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The novel 4‐nitrophthalonitrile end‐capped compound APPN is firstly used to promote the curing reaction of PN monomer 1,3‐bis(3,4‐dicyanophenoxy)benzene (m‐BDB). Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) showed that the PN resin in the presence of 10 % of APPN possessed outstanding thermal and thermo‐oxidative stabilities as well as good mechanical properties, better than the properties of those with 20 % of APPN and 10 % of APPH. Its glass transition temperature (Tg) is higher than 400 °C, and the polymer loses 5 % of its weight (T5%) at 524 °C and shows a storage modulus of 1373 MPa at 400 °C.
Formation of Unconventional Stoichiometric Na–Cl Magic‐Number Nanoclusters and 2D Assembly on Ir(111)
Authors: Tan Xin , Pan Jinliang , Wu Yangfan , Xu Peng , Sun Luye , Hu Kui , Qiu Xia , Li Menglei , Liu Mengxi , Ma Donglin , Qiu Xiaohui
Published: January 2022

Sodium chlorides in non‐1:1 stoichiometry are counterintuitive but recently their existence has been found under the high pressure condition or in the confined space between graphene sheets. Here the direct observation of the formation of Na3Cl nanoclusters, a stable magic‐number structure, is reported on an Ir(111) surface using scanning tunneling microscopy and noncontact atomic force microscopy. The stability of Na3Cl nanoclusters in the free and adsorbed state is corroborated by density functional theory calculations. It is also found that a density of nanoclusters together with Cl adatoms may further aggregate and self‐assemble into a Na3Cl4 monolayer, forming a novel metastable phase of NaCl(111) with a honeycomb lattice. Further calculations suggest that charge transfer between the polar nanoclusters and the metal substrate stabilizes NaCl of non‐1:1 stoichiometry. The work exhibits the possibility of exploring unconventional ionic crystals on the surface with atomically precise control of structure and composition.
A Self‐Powered Triboelectric Hybrid Coder for Human–Machine Interaction
Authors: Cao Yu , Yang Yuan , Qu Xuecheng , Shi Bojing , Xu Lingling , Xue Jiangtao , Wang Chan , Bai Yuan , Gai Yansong , Luo Dan , Li Zhou
Published: January 2022

Human–machine interfaces have penetrated various academia and industry fields such as smartphones, robotic, virtual reality, and wearable electronics, due to their abundant functional sensors and information interaction methods. Nevertheless, most sensors’ complex structural design, monotonous parameter detection capability, and single information coding communication hinder their rapid development. As the frontier of self‐powered sensors, the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has multiple working modes and high structural adaptability, which is a potential solution for multi‐parameter sensing and miniaturizing of traditional interactive electronic devices. Herein, a self‐powered hybrid coder (SHC) based on TENG is reported to encode two action parameters of touch and press, which can be used as a smart interface for human–machine interaction. The top‐down hollow structure of the SHC, not only constructs a compositing mode to generate stable touch and press signals but also builds a hybrid coding platform for generating action codes in synergy mode. When a finger touches or presses the SHC, Morse code and Gray code can be transmitted for text information or remote control of electric devices. This self‐powered coder is of reference value for designing an alternative human–machine interface and having the potential to contribute to the next generation of highly integrated portable smart electronics.
Assessment of Solid Wastes and By‐Products as Solid Particle Materials for Concentrated Solar Power Plants
Authors: Majó Marc , Calderón Alejandro , Salgado-Pizarro Rebeca , Svodobova-Sedlackova Adela , Barreneche Camila , Chimenos Josep Maria , Fernández Ana Inés
Published: January 2022

The revalorization of solid wastes and by‐products to be applied as solid particles in concentrated solar power (CSP) leads to cost savings and progresses toward more sustainable technology. Herein, the physicochemical, morphological, thermal, and solar absorption properties are evaluated for electric arc furnace dust, black slag from the steel industry, and Gossan waste from the Rio Tinto mining industry. The principal objectives of this work are (i) to carry out a thermal aging at 900 °C at different times, (ii) to assess the solid's stability throughout the evaluation of physicochemical, morphological, thermal, and optical properties of the material as received, after 300 and 500 h of thermal aging, and (iii) to determine the most appropriate candidate as a thermal energy storage medium and heat transfer fluid for the CSP concept with solid particles. The results show that electric arc furnace black slag is the most suitable candidate from the three solids studied, as it is the one that optimizes the combination of absorptance, thermal conductivity, and chemical stability after thermal aging.
A Few Pt Single Atoms Are Responsible for the Overall Co‐Catalytic Activity in Pt/TiO2 Photocatalytic H2 Generation
Authors: Qin Shanshan , Denisov Nikita , Will Johannes , Kolařík Jan , Spiecker Erdmann , Schmuki Patrik
Published: January 2022

The use of single atoms (SAs) has become a highly investigated topic in heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and most recently also in photocatalysis. In the field of photocatalysis, Pt SAs on TiO2 have been reported to be a highly efficient co‐catalyst in solar H2 production. Herein, the deposition of Pt SAs and nanoparticles on titania nanosheets is investigated. In particular, the Pt species responsible for the high co‐catalytic activity using a cyanide leaching process is elucidated. It is shown that neither Pt0 species nor the majority of Pt SAs do significantly contribute to the co‐catalytic activity of platinum on TiO2. In fact, >90% of the Pt of a standard deposition are non‐active and can be removed by cyanide leaching without activity loss—as a consequence, the remaining Pt SAs amount to a remarkable turnover frequency of 4.87 × 105 h−1 for H2 evolution.
Covariate‐adaptive randomization with variable selection in clinical trials
Authors: Zhang Hao , Hu Feifang , Yin Jianxin
Published: January 2022

In clinical trials and causal inference, it is often critical to balance treatment allocation over influential covariates. In big data era, the number of covariates is usually very large, among which only a small fraction of them are influential to the response variable due to sparsity. However, existing studies assume that all influential covariates are known, fixed and given. In this article, we propose a procedure that can select the influential covariates from a diverging number of candidates and keep the allocation balanced among the important covariates simultaneously. Under mild regularity conditions, we show that the proposed procedure can pick out important covariates and balance treatment allocation among the important covariates consistently. Further, balancing treatment allocation can help the selection of important covariates, whereas picking out important covariates can make the randomization more efficient. Numerical studies support our theoretical discoveries for the proposed procedure. We also apply our method to a virtual redesign dataset of advertising vehicle choosing and show the advantages of the proposed procedure.
Neuregelung der Ermüdungslastmodelle für die Nachrechnung von Straßenbrücken
Authors: Marzahn Gero , Kraus Josef Karl , Geißler Karsten
Published: January 2022

Mit der Überarbeitung der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie werden Erfahrungen der letzten Jahre sowie neue Erkenntnisse zu einwirkungs‐ und widerstandsseitigen Aspekten der Bewertung von Straßenbrücken normativ umgesetzt. Ein Schwerpunkt ist die realitätsnahe Beurteilung der Ermüdungsbeanspruchung. Im Beitrag werden die diesbezüglichen bisherigen Regelungen der Stufen 1 und 2 sowie deren aktuelle Verbesserungen erläutert. Ein wichtiges Ziel der Überarbeitung war es, die verkehrlichen Einflüsse bereits ab Stufe 1 einer Nachrechnung einheitlich für alle Bauweisen berücksichtigen zu können. Durch die Stufen 3 und 4 der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie werden die messtechnisch gestützte Bewertung sowie die Anwendung weitergehender wissenschaftlicher Methoden erfasst. Die über Systemmessungen bzw. Bauwerksmonitoring gewonnenen Erkenntnisse haben häufig innerhalb der Nachrechnung einen sehr großen Nutzen. Durch ergänzende Hinweise zu diesen beiden Stufen wird das Potenzial geschaffen, rechnerische Reserven der Bauwerke noch besser auszunutzen – ein Beitrag zum nachhaltigen Umgang mit unseren Ressourcen.
Who is the digital forensic expert and what is their expertise?
Authors: Horsman Graeme , Shavers Brett
Published: January 2022

Given the importance of digital evidence to many inquiries, the services of practitioners in the digital forensic field are often sought. In some cases, a “digital forensic expert witness” may be required to conduct specific investigatory work and provide opinion evidence. Here we explore the concept of a digital forensic expert witness while also considering whether this term may now be potentially misleading to those outside of this domain. A discussion of the challenges that exist when trying to establish and assess the validity of expertise in this field is offered. Suggestions for ways to both evidence and correctly identify relevant expertise are made, taking into account the viewpoints of both the potential expert and client.

This article is categorized under:

Digital and Multimedia Science > Multimedia Forensics
Correction to: Did You Find It on the Internet? Ethical Complexities of Search Engine Rankings
Authors: Canca Cansu
Published: January 2022

The original version of the chapter was inadvertently published with an error. The affiliation of the author Cansu Canca has now been corrected to “AI Ethics Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA”.
An effective description of momentum diffusion in a charged plasma from holography
Authors: He Temple , Loganayagam R. , Rangamani Mukund , Virrueta Julio
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We discuss the physics of momentum diffusion in a charged plasma. Following the holographic strategy outlined in [1] we construct an open effective field theory for the low-lying modes of the conserved currents. The charged plasma is modeled holographically in terms of a Reissner-Nordström-AdSd+1 black hole. We analyze graviton and photon fluctuations about this background, decoupling in the process the long-lived momentum diffusion mode from the short-lived charged transport mode. Furthermore, as in the aforementioned reference, we argue that the dynamics of these modes are captured by a set of designer scalars in the background geometry. These scalars have their gravitational coupling modulated by an auxiliary dilaton with long-lived modes being weakly coupled near the spacetime asymptopia. Aided by these observations, we obtain the quadratic effective action that governs the fluctuating hydrodynamics of the charge current and stress tensor, reproducing in the process transport data computed previously. We also point out an interesting length scale lying between the inner and outer horizon radii of the charged black hole associated with Ohmic conductivity.
Making and Collecting Instruments in Fair Verona: The Case of the Italian Amateur Scientist Gaetano Spandri (1796–1859)
Authors: Mantovani Roberto
Published: January 2022

Gaetano Spandri (1796–1859) was a “diligent scholar of the physical sciences,” a private collector and maker of scientific instruments who worked in Verona in the first half of the nineteenth century. Born in Verona, the city famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s iconic masterpiece Romeo and Juliet Spandri was primarily a physicist and astronomer, but he was also interested in meteorology and natural sciences. The main sources of information about his scientific work are handwritten papers, parts of his private correspondence, and scientific reports kept at the Verona Academy of Agriculture. For most of his life, he collaborated with the physicist Giuseppe Zamboni and was in contact with important physicists and astronomers of his time. His private apartment was equipped with a rich library, an astronomical and meteorological observatory, and a large room where he gathered a rich and important collection of scientific instruments.
Spire1 and Myosin Vc promote Ca2+-evoked externalization of von Willebrand factor in endothelial cells
Authors: Holthenrich Anna , Terglane Julian , Naß Johannes , Mietkowska Magdalena , Kerkhoff Eugen , Gerke Volker
Published: January 2022

Weibel–Palade bodies (WPB) are endothelial cell-specific storage granules that regulate vascular hemostasis by releasing the platelet adhesion receptor von Willebrand factor (VWF) following stimulation. Fusion of WPB with the plasma membrane is accompanied by the formation of actin rings or coats that support the expulsion of large multimeric VWF fibers. However, factor(s) organizing these actin ring structures have remained elusive. We now identify the actin-binding proteins Spire1 and Myosin Vc (MyoVc) as cytosolic factors that associate with WPB and are involved in actin ring formation at WPB-plasma membrane fusion sites. We show that both, Spire1 and MyoVc localize only to mature WPB and that upon Ca2+ evoked exocytosis of WPB, Spire1 and MyoVc together with F-actin concentrate in ring-like structures at the fusion sites. Depletion of Spire1 or MyoVc reduces the number of these actin rings and decreases the amount of VWF externalized to the cell surface after histamine stimulation.
A comprehensive method to elucidate pyoverdines produced by fluorescent Pseudomonas spp. by UHPLC-HR-MS/MS
Authors: Rehm Karoline , Vollenweider Vera , Kümmerli Rolf , Bigler Laurent
Published: January 2022

Microbial secondary metabolites represent a rich source for drug discovery, plant protective agents, and biotechnologically relevant compounds. Among them are siderophores, iron-chelating molecules, that show a great influence on bacterial community assembly and the potential to control pathogen invasions. One of such a siderophore is pyoverdine that is produced by fluorescent Pseudomonas members and consists of different peptide chains specific to each bacterial species. The identification and structural elucidation of such suites of siderophores remain widely underexplored as general high-throughput analytical protocols are missing. Therefore, a dedicated method was established allowing a rapid localization and structural elucidation of pyoverdines. Liquid bacterial culture samples were purified by an easy small-scale solid-phase extraction (SPE). Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HR-MS/MS) separated highly polar pyoverdines and their derivatives. All ion fragmentation (AIF) generated mass spectra containing the characteristic fragments of the biological precursor of pyoverdine, ferribactin. This led to the revelation of the mass of secreted pyoverdines. Targeted MS/MS experiments at multiple collision energies accomplished the full structure elucidation of the pyoverdine peptide chain. A mass calculator and a fragmentation predictor facilitated greatly the interpretation of MS/MS spectra by providing accurate masses for a straightforward comparison of measured and theoretical values. The method was successfully validated using four well-known pyoverdines with various peptide chains. Finally, the applicability was proven by the analysis of 13 unknown pyoverdines secreted by sampled bacterial cultures. Among these, 4 novel pyoverdine peptide chains were discovered and are herein reported for the first time.

Graphical abstract
Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition as Underlying Mechanism for the Formation of Double-Chambered Right Ventricle
Authors: Weixler Viktoria , Kramer Peter , Lindner Judith , Murin Peter , Cho Mi-Young , del Nido Pedro , Photiadis Joachim , Friehs Ingeborg
Published: January 2022

Double-chambered right ventricle (DCRV) is a progressive division of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) often associated with a subaortic ventricular defect (VSD). The septation is caused by a mixture of hypertrophied muscle bundles and fibrous tissue, whereof the latter is of unclear pathogenesis. Our group has previously reported that flow disturbances lead to formation of fibroelastic tissue through a process called endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) but it is unclear whether the same mechanism exists in the RV. Tissue from patients undergoing repair of DCRV was examined to identify the histomorphological substrate of this tissue. Demographic and pre-/post-operative echocardiographic data were collected from nine patients undergoing surgery for DCRV. RVOTO tissue samples were histologically analyzed for myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis, elastin content, and active EndMT (immunohistochemical double-staining for endothelial and mesenchymal markers and transcription factors Slug/Snail) and compared to four healthy controls. Indication for surgery were symptoms and progressive RVOT gradients. A highly turbulent flow jet through the RVOTO and VSD was observed in all patients with a preoperative median RVOT peak gradient of 77 mmHg (IQR 55.0–91.5), improved to 6 mmHg (IQR 4.5–17) postoperatively. Histological analysis revealed muscle and thick infiltratively growing fibroelastic tissue. EndMT was confirmed as underlying patho-mechanism of this fibroelastic tissue but the degree of myocardial hypertrophy was not different compared to controls (P = 0.08). This study shows for the first time that an invasive fibroelastic remodeling processes of the endocardium into the underlying myocardium through activation of EndMT contributes to the septation of the RVOT.
Spectroscopic properties of Tb3+ as an ion for visible lasers
Authors: Kalusniak Sascha , Castellano-Hernández Elena , Yalçinoğlu Hasan , Tanaka Hiroki , Kränkel Christian
Published: January 2022

In recent years, Tb3+-based solid-state lasers with emission in the green and yellow have seen a revival. This was owed to the availability of blue emitting semiconductor-based pump sources and recent findings, which reported more than 60% slope efficiency in the green and about 25% slope efficiency in the yellow. In this paper we review the state of the art of Tb3+-based solid-state lasers. We summarize the spectroscopic properties and present new insights, which enable us to provide valuable guidelines and recommendations for the choice of host materials to further improve the performance of Tb3+-based solid-state lasers.
Fitness, physical activity, and exercise in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review on current evidence for interactions with disease activity and progression
Authors: Proschinger Sebastian , Kuhwand Puya , Rademacher Annette , Walzik David , Warnke Clemens , Zimmer Philipp , Joisten Niklas
Published: January 2022

Background

A moderate to high level of physical activity, including regular exercise, represents an established behavioral and rehabilitative approach for persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Although being increasingly proposed to limit disease activity and progression, high-quality evidence is lacking.

Objective

The objective of the study is to provide valuable information for MS clinicians and researchers by systematically evaluating the current state of evidence (i) whether exercise interventions affect established clinical measures of disease activity and progression in pwMS (i.e., EDSS, relapse rate, lesion load, brain volume, MSFC) and (ii) how the physical activity and fitness level interact with these measures.

Methods

Literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus. Evaluation of evidence quality was done based on standards published by The American Academy of Neurology.

Results

It is likely that exercise improves the MSFC score, whereas the EDSS score, lesion load, and brain volume are likely to remain unchanged over the intervention period. It is possible that exercise decreases the relapse rate. Results from cross-sectional studies indicate beneficial effects of a high physical activity or fitness level on clinical measures which, however, is not corroborated by high evidence quality.

Conclusions

A (supportive) disease-modifying effect of exercise in pwMS cannot be concluded. The rather low evidence quality of existing RCTs underlines the need to conduct more well-designed studies assessing different measures of disease activity or progression as primary end points. A major limitation is the short intervention duration of existing studies which limits meaningful exercise-induced effects on most disability measures. Findings from cross-sectional studies are difficult to contextualize regarding clinical importance due to their solely associative character and low evidence quality.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020188774.